part 1 Flashcards
(111 cards)
Surgery classifications?
Elective
Diagnostic
Acute
List 3 patient orientated goals post surgery?
Return to normal physical function
Remain free from post op complications
Achieve emotional and physical comfort
What is included in a pre-op assessment? (5)
Obtain history
Physical assessment
Determine patient understanding
Identify emotional state and coping skills
Check consent, pre anaesthetic form complete, other pre anaesthetic orders
What does atelectasis mean?
Collapse or closure of lung resulting in reduced or absent gas exchange
List 5 ways to safely care for post op patients?
Fluid balance input and output Pain management Assessing wound Vital signs Checking IV site
What is meningitis?
A serious disease in which there is inflammation of the meninges
Signs and symptoms of meningitis?
Intense headache
Fever
Light sensitivity
Muscular rigidity
Main cause of meningitis?
Bacterial: Streptococcus pneumoniae
Viral: Enterovirus
Signs of raised intercranial pressure? (4)
Headache
Nausea
Increased bp
Confusion
What is the purpose of the nursing council?
To protect the health and safety of members of the public by ensuring RNs are registered, fit to practise, and competent.
Signs of otitis? (Ear infection/inflammation)
Ear pain
Fever
Difficulty hearing
What would you do if prescribed medication was not signed by the doctor?
Do not give until a signature or verbal consent has been given with a witness
Signs of a patient on methamphetamine? (5)
Dilated pupils Agitation Increased bp Loss of appetite Paranoia
List 5 pieces of advice to give a patient following a total hip replacement?
Place a pillow between legs when lying on side Avoid bending past 90 degrees Avoid crossing legs Sit on chairs higher than knee height Take short frequent walks
What is airway obstruction caused by?
inhaling or swallowing a foreign object allergic reaction trauma viral infections bacterial infections croup inflammation/swelling asthma cystic fibrosis COPD
Treatment for airway obstruction?
Correct positioning o2 therapy Suctioning Close monitoring Viral signs Anti emetics
S/S of atelectasis?
Insidious onset
Early s&s: cough, sputum, low grade fever
Later s&s: respiratory distress, dyspnoea, tachycardia, pleural pain, cyanosis, anxiety
What is a pulmonary embolism?
A condition in which one or more arteries in the lungs become blocked by a blood clot.
Most times, a pulmonary embolism is caused by blood clots that travel from the legs, or rarely, other parts of the body (deep vein thrombosis or DVT).
Diagnosis of a pulmonary embolism?
Chest X-ray Ecg Abg Ultra sound Pulmonary angiography
How to prevent a pulmonary embolism?
Pre op weight loss Compression stockings Early animation Hydration Meds
What causes a deep vein thrombosis?
Occurs in leg veins due to inactivity, body positioning, and pressure
Risk factors for DVTs?
Elderly Poor nutrition Surgery over three hours Limited mobility Long haul flights Diabetes
What is wound dehiscence?
Disruption/reopening of previously joined wound edges due to an infection, too tight sutures, or injury to wound
Risk factors for wound dehiscence?
Elderly Poor nutrition Diabetes Abdominal surgery Immunosuppressant Smoking