Clinical Techniques in Respiratory Care

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to respiratory care techniques learned in clinical settings.

Proficient

Having everything set up and knowing what to do in clinical situations.

Patent Airway

An airway that is open and unobstructed, allowing a patient to breathe.

Suctioning

The process of removing secretions from a patient's airway to maintain airway patency.

Hyperoxygenate

To provide extra oxygen to a patient before performing a procedure like suctioning.

Gag Reflex

The contraction of muscles to protect the airway when stimulated, potentially causing gagging.

Sterile Technique

Using sterile gloves and equipment to prevent infection during invasive procedures.

PRN (Pro re nata)

As needed; a term indicating that a treatment is not scheduled but is to be used when required.

Yankauer

A suction device used for oral suctioning of secretions.

Tracheostomy

A surgical procedure to create an opening through the neck into the trachea for breathing.

Endotracheal Tube (ET Tube)

A tube placed into the trachea to maintain an open airway, often used for ventilation.

Cuff Pressure

The pressure maintained in the balloon at the end of a tracheostomy or endotracheal tube to prevent air leakage.

Granuloma

A cluster of tissue that can form at a site of irritation or injury, often can occur around tracheostomies.

Atelectasis

Collapse or closure of a lung resulting in reduced or absent gas exchange.

Decannulation

The process of removing a tracheostomy tube.

Extubation

The removal of an endotracheal tube from a patient.

LMA (Laryngeal Mask Airway)

An airway device used during general anesthesia to maintain an open airway without intubation.

Nasopharyngeal Airway

A tube inserted into the nasal passage to keep the airway open, often used in unconscious patients.

Oral Airway

A curved device inserted into the mouth to prevent the tongue from blocking the airway.

Bronchial Suctioning

Suctioning performed in the lower airway to clear secretions from the trachea.

Coarse Crackles

Abnormal lung sounds created by air passing through fluid in the airways indicative of secretion build-up.

Commu Tube

A tube designed for patients with difficult airways, allowing for ventilatory support without direct intubation.

Telemetry Monitoring

Continuous monitoring of a patient's heart rate and oxygen saturation during procedures.