Metabolism in Critically Ill Patients at Golden West College

Vocabulary flashcards based on the lecture notes covering metabolism, pathophysiology, and nursing considerations for critically ill patients.

Metabolism

The set of life-sustaining chemical reactions that involve converting food into energy, particularly relevant in homeostasis and disease states.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)

A life-threatening condition resulting from absolute insulin deficiency leading to hyperglycemia, ketosis, and metabolic acidosis.

Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic Syndrome (HHS)

A serious complication of diabetes characterized by severe hyperglycemia and dehydration, without significant ketosis.

Diabetes Insipidus (DI)

A disorder resulting from a deficiency of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), causing large volumes of dilute urine and leading to dehydration.

Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone (SIADH)

A condition characterized by excessive release of ADH, resulting in water retention and dilutional hyponatremia.

Pathophysiology

The study of the functional changes in the body as a result of a disease; in this context, how DKA, HHS, DI, and SIADH affect metabolism.

Counterregulatory Hormones

Hormones, like cortisol and glucagon, that work against the effects of insulin, increasing blood glucose levels.

Ketogenesis

The metabolic process by which ketone bodies are produced from fatty acid breakdown, typically occurring during states of low carbohydrate availability.

Osmotic Diuresis

Increased urination due to the presence of certain substances in the fluid filtered by the kidneys, commonly seen in hyperglycemia.

Electrolyte Imbalance

A disturbance in the balance of electrolytes in the body, which can affect various bodily functions and is a critical concern in metabolic disorders.

Acidosis

A condition characterized by an excess of acid in the body fluids, which can occur in DKA due to increased ketone production.

Dehydration

A state resulting from excessive loss of body fluids, leading to a decrease in blood volume and complications like hypernatremia.

Clinical Presentation

The observable symptoms and signs of a disease or condition that health professionals recognize during assessment.

Neurological Symptoms

Symptoms affecting the nervous system, such as confusion or altered level of consciousness, indicative of severe metabolic derangements.

Fluid Replacement Therapy

The medical treatment involving the administration of fluids to restore normal body fluid levels, especially critical in dehydration.

Nursing Interventions

Actions taken by nurses to support patients' health, involving assessment, monitoring, and education to manage conditions like DI, SIADH, DKA, and HHS.

Patient Education

Information and skills imparted to patients to help them understand their conditions, treatments, and the importance of adherence to therapies.

Risk Factors

Characteristics or conditions that increase the likelihood of developing a disease; in this context, conditions leading to DKA, HHS, DI, and SIADH.

Diagnostic Tests

Laboratory investigations used to identify or monitor diseases, such as blood glucose levels, ketones, serum osmolality, and electrolytes.

Holistic Care

A patient-centered approach that considers the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of the patient, especially in cases of chronic illness.