Nursing Arts theory test 1

Medical Asepsis

Practices used to eliminate or reduce microorganisms to prevent infection.

Surgical Asepsis

Involves complete sterilization of all instruments and surfaces used in invasive procedures.

Sterilization vs. Disinfection

Sterilization destroys all forms of microbial life, whereas disinfection eliminates many but not necessarily all pathogenic microorganisms.

Colonization

Presence of bacteria on the surface of the body without causing disease in the host.

Local Infection

An infection that is in a specific location of the body.

Systemic Infection

An infection that spreads throughout the entire body, often leading to widespread symptoms.

Bacteremia

The presence of bacteria in the bloodstream.

Septicemia

An infection that occurs when bacteria enter the bloodstream and spreads throughout the body.

Nosocomial Infections

Infections acquired in a healthcare setting.

Endogenous Sources

Pathogens originating from the patient's own body.

Exogenous Sources

Pathogens arising from the external environment.

Chain of Infection

The sequence of events required for infection to occur, including the pathogen, reservoir, portal of exit, mode of transmission, portal of entry, and susceptible host.

Direct Contact Transmission

Physical contact between an infected person and a susceptible person.

Indirect Contact Transmission

Spread of infection through contact with contaminated objects or surfaces.

Droplet Transmission

Infections transmitted by droplets produced by coughing, sneezing, or talking.

Airborne Transmission

Infections transmitted through airborne droplets.

Vector Transmission

Infections transmitted to humans from animals or insects.

Vehicle Transmission

Indirect transmission of an infectious agent through contaminated sources like food and water.

Portal of Entry

Pathways through which pathogens enter a new host.

Susceptible Hosts

Individuals with factors that increase their risk of infection.

Routine Precautions

Actions taken to prevent the transmission of infections, including hand hygiene and the use of PPE.

Handwashing Importance

To remove pathogens and prevent infection transmission.

Subjective Data

Information reported by the patient, influenced by personal perceptions.

Objective Data

Information obtained through measurable observations and examinations.

Error Correction in Documentation

Verify information with the patient, reevaluate measurements, and document any corrections.

Confidentiality in Healthcare

Records are securely managed and accessible only to authorized personnel.

Legal Obligations in Nursing

Adhere to laws regarding patient confidentiality and data protection.

Informed Consent

Obtaining permission from the patient before sharing sensitive information.

24-Hour Clock Utilization

Essential for scheduling patient care and medication administration.

Clear Fluids

Includes broth and clear juices; beneficial for patients recovering from surgery.

Full Fluids

Comprises all clear liquids plus cream soups; ideal for those having difficulty eating solid foods.

Thickened Fluids

Includes nectar and pudding consistency fluids; recommended for patients with swallowing difficulties.

Regular Diet

A balanced diet suitable for most patients.

Considerations for Clients with Dysphagia

Ensure food options are of appropriate consistency and clients are positioned upright during meals.

Dysphagia

Difficulty in swallowing due to various underlying causes.

Aspiration Pneumonia

A complication of dysphagia where food enters the lungs, leading to infection.

Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) Role

Assess and treat swallowing disorders; consult when a patient shows signs of dysphagia.

Safety Considerations When Feeding Patients

Patients should be seated upright and small bites encouraged to reduce aspiration risk.

Conversion from Pounds to Kilograms Formula

Weight in kilograms = Weight in pounds × 0.45.

Vital Signs Purpose

Provide essential information about a patient's current health status.

Vital Signs Checking Frequency

Typically during admissions, at regular intervals, and when changes in condition occur.

Normal Temperature Range

36 to 38 degrees Celsius.

Normal Pulse Range

60-100 BPM.

Normal Respirations Range

12-20 breaths per minute.

Normal Blood Pressure Range

120/80 mmHg.

Normal Oxygen Saturation Range

95%-100%.

Factors Affecting Vital Signs

Include environmental conditions, activity level, age, hydration, and health status.

Common Sites for Temperature Measurement

Oral, rectal, axillary, tympanic, and temporal artery.

Non-Pharmacological Ways to Reduce Temperature

Cool compresses, hydration, ambient temperature management, tepid sponge baths.

Radial Pulse Location

Located at the wrist and commonly used for assessing heart rate.

Carotid Pulse Location

Found beside the trachea in the neck, used in emergencies.

Femoral Pulse Location

In the groin area, important for assessing lower body blood flow.

Apical Pulse Purpose

Heard at the apex of the heart, vital for monitoring cardiac function.

Systolic Phase

Heart contracts, pumping blood into arteries, causing pressure to rise.

Diastolic Phase

Heart relaxes, filling with blood, leading to a decrease in pressure.

Hypotension Definition

Condition of abnormally low blood pressure, typically below 90 mmHg.

Hypertension Definition

Condition of consistently elevated blood pressure, usually above 130/80 mmHg.

Postural Hypotension

Blood pressure drops significantly upon standing up.

Importance of Baseline Oxygen Saturation

Helps identify deviations indicating respiratory distress or complications.

Bacteremia

The presence of bacteria in the bloodstream.

Septicemia

An infection occurring when bacteria enter and spread in the bloodstream.

Invasive Procedures

Medical procedures that require surgical asepsis to prevent infection.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Includes gloves, masks, and gowns to prevent infection in healthcare settings.

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

Regulates patient information confidentiality and data protection.

Thickened Fluids

Recommended for patients with difficulty swallowing to minimize aspiration risk.

Documentation Purpose

Ensures accurate patient information is available and provides a legal record of care.

Routine Precautions

Actions such as hand hygiene and use of PPE to facilitate infection control.

Pneumonia Complication of Dysphagia

Occurs when food or liquid enters the lungs due to swallowing difficulties.

Communication in Healthcare

Facilitates continuity of care and enhances patient safety.

Restoring Patient Compliance

Includes regular education on privacy practices and compliance with regulations.

Acute Respiratory Distress Confounders

Include recent infections, smoking, and environmental pollutants.