part 2 Flashcards
- What is the definition of orthostatic hypotension?
A sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing from a sitting or supine position
- What may be some causes of orthostatic hypotension?
Some causes of orthostatic hypotension are fever, prolonged bed rest, excessive amounts of alcohol, some medicines and dehydration due to vomiting constantly.
- What are clinical signs and symptoms of orthostatic hypotension?
Some clinical signs and symptoms of orthostatic hypotension are lightheadedness or dizziness, blurry vision, weakness, fainting and confusion.
- How is orthostatic hypotension assessed?
A way to assess orthostatic hypertension is to start with having the patient lie down for 5 minutes. Measure the blood pressure and pulse rate then have the patient stand. Repeat blood pressure and pulse rate measurements after standing 1 and 3 minutes.
- What is the nurse’s priority intervention for a patient with orthostatic hypotension?
The number one priority is to change them from a supine/ sitting to a standing position slowly and carefully.
- How does a nurse take care of a patient with orthostatic hypotension?
Make sure to monitor all of the positions the patient is sitting in and change it over the course of time so they are not in one position over and over again. Make sure the patient is rising slowly as well.
- How should the nurse describe to the patient’s wife the following:
What is tachycardia? an increased heart rate for any reason
What is tachypnea? Abnormal, rapid breathing
What is the purpose of measuring pulse oximetry? Measuring the oxygen in a person’s blood
Write at least 4 factors that could cause increased respirations?
Anxiety, asthma, heart failure or lung disease.
- What does SBAR stand for?
Situation, background, assessment, recommendation.
