Critical Care Nursing Review

These flashcards encompass key concepts and terminology related to critical care nursing, enhancing understanding and preparation for examinations.

Critical Care Unit (CCU)

Designed to meet the special needs of acutely and critically ill patients.

Rapid Response Team (RRT)

Delivers advanced care by an interprofessional team.

Progressive Care Unit (PCU)

A transition unit between the ICU and the general unit.

Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN)

A nurse with in-depth knowledge in anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, and pharmacology, skilled in advanced technology.

Common Problems of Critical Care Patients

Includes anxiety, pain, impaired communication, sleep difficulties, and sensory-perceptual problems.

Hemodynamic Monitoring

To assess heart function, fluid balance, and the effects of fluids and drugs on cardiac output.

Cardiac Output (CO)

The actual volume of blood in liters pumped by the heart in 1 minute.

Cardiac Index (CI)

Measurement of CO adjusted for body surface area.

Preload

Volume within the ventricle at the end of diastole.

Afterload

Forces opposing ventricular ejection.

Systemic Vascular Resistance (SVR)

Resistance encountered by the left ventricle.

Pulmonary Vascular Resistance (PVR)

Resistance encountered by the right ventricle.

Arterial Pressure Monitoring

Indicated for patients with acute hypotension and hypertension to obtain blood pressure measurements.

Central Venous Pressure (CVP)

Indicates right ventricular preload and fluid volume status.

Mixed Venous Oxygen Saturation (SvO₂)

Measures adequacy of oxygenation in tissues.

Noninvasive Monitoring

Includes pulse oximetry and impedance cardiography.

Mechanical Ventilation

Support delivered by machines to assist with breathing.

Complications of Positive Pressure Ventilation

Includes cardiovascular, pulmonary, and neurological issues.

Weaning from Ventilation

Process of reducing ventilator support and resuming spontaneous breathing.

Artificial Airways

Includes endotracheal tubes inserted for airway management.

Artificial Airway Management

Responsibilities shared between RN and RT, including tube placement and cuff inflation.

NCLEX Question Format

A format used for testing knowledge and understanding in nursing.

Rationale for NCLEX Questions

Explanation of the correct answer to ensure understanding.