Med-surge, ICU, L&D

Heart Failure (HF) Pathology

Impaired cardiac output due to systolic/diastolic dysfunction, leading to fluid overload and decreased perfusion.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Pathology

Progressive loss of kidney function resulting in waste accumulation, fluid overload, and electrolyte imbalances. A WET BED (acid base balance, water removal, erythropoiesis, toxin removal, BP control, electrolyte balance, Vit D activation)

COPD Pathology

Chronic inflammation causing airflow limitation due to bronchitis and/or emphysema.

Sepsis Pathology

Systemic inflammatory response to infection leading to tissue hypoperfusion and organ dysfunction.

ARDS Pathology

Acute lung injury causing non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema and severe hypoxemia.

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Pathology

Sudden decline in kidney function, often due to hypoperfusion, nephrotoxins, or obstruction. Causes: prerenal, intrarenal, postrenal.

Preeclampsia Pathology

Pregnancy-induced hypertension with proteinuria, leading to potential multi-organ damage. D/t poor placental perfusion.

Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH) Pathology

Excessive bleeding (>500 mL vaginal, >1000 mL C-section) due to uterine atony, retained placenta, or trauma.

Preterm Labor Pathology

Labor occurring before 37 weeks' gestation, often due to infection, uterine overdistension, or placental issues.

Pharmacology for Heart Failure

Includes ACE inhibitors (e.g., Lisinopril), Beta-blockers (e.g., Metoprolol), Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide), and Digoxin.

Pharmacology for Chronic Kidney Disease

Includes erythropoietin-stimulating agents (e.g., Epoetin alfa), phosphate binders, and antihypertensives.

Pharmacology for COPD

Includes bronchodilators (e.g., Albuterol), corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone), and anticholinergics (e.g., Tiotropium).

Pharmacology for Sepsis

Includes broad-spectrum antibiotics (e.g., Vancomycin + Piperacillin-tazobactam), vasopressors (e.g., Norepinephrine), and IV fluids.

Pharmacology for ARDS

Includes sedatives (e.g., Propofol), paralytics (e.g., Vecuronium), vasopressors, and steroids.

Pharmacology for Acute Kidney Injury

Includes diuretics (e.g., Furosemide), electrolyte replacement, and vasopressors in prerenal causes.

Nursing Considerations for Heart Failure

Monitor daily weights, fluid intake, lung sounds, and electrolytes (potassium with diuretics).

Nursing Considerations for Chronic Kidney Disease

Monitor BUN/creatinine, fluid restrictions, dialysis education, and dietary management (low sodium, potassium, and protein).

Nursing Considerations for COPD

Promote smoking cessation, monitor oxygen levels (avoid high O2 in chronic CO2 retainers), and encourage pursed-lip breathing.

Nursing Considerations for Sepsis

Monitor for signs of organ failure, measure lactate levels, and initiate early goal-directed therapy.

Nursing Considerations for ARDS

Mechanical ventilation with low tidal volumes, prone positioning, and strict fluid management.

Nursing Considerations for Acute Kidney Injury

Monitor urine output, fluid balance, and nephrotoxic medications (e.g., NSAIDs, contrast agents).

Nursing Considerations for Preeclampsia

Monitor blood pressure, deep tendon reflexes, and signs of magnesium toxicity.

Nursing Considerations for Postpartum Hemorrhage

Fundal massage, assess for clots, monitor vital signs, and prepare for possible blood transfusion.

Nursing Considerations for Preterm Labor

Monitor contractions, cervical dilation, and fetal heart rate. Educate on bed rest and hydration.