Approach to the critically ill patient Flashcards
management in a critically ill patient
management cannot be delayed until a diagnosis is made
treatment is instituted whilst assessment is ongoing
if there is no pulse what do you do
BLS algorithm CPR: chest compressions and ventilations
if there is a pulse what steps do you take
- primary assessment
- AMPLE history
- secondary assessment
primary assessment
A- airway
B- breathing
C- circulation
D- disability
E- exposure
SAMPLE history
S- signs and symptoms
A- allergies
M- medication
P- past medical history
L- last oral meal
E- events leading up
Hello: AVPU
A- Alert
V- voice
P- pain
U- unresponsive
airways (C- spine control)
- look in mouth if unconscious
- listen
airway: stridor
upper airway obstruction
airway: gurgling sounds
secretions
how to open airway if no C- spine problem
head tilt chin
how to open airway if trauma
jaw thrust
to clear airway for secretions
suctioning
to clear airway for large objects
magills forceps
to maintain open airway
OPA (if tolerates)
NPA
LMA
to protect airway
ETT
Cric
airway drugs: adrenaline
airway swelling e.g. Anaphylaxis
airway drugs: RSI agents
ETT placement
breathing: presence of breathing
respiratory rate
