Nursing Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from nursing lectures, particularly focusing on acid-base disorders, patient care, and pharmacology.

Acidosis

A condition where the pH of blood is less than 7.35.

Alkalosis

A condition where the pH of blood is greater than 7.45.

Bicarbonate (HCO3)

A chemical that helps maintain the blood's pH level.

Normal pH range

7.35 to 7.45.

Signs of Metabolic Acidosis

Low pH and low HCO3, often due to the body producing too much acid.

Signs of Metabolic Alkalosis

High pH and high HCO3, often due to loss of hydrogen ions.

Respiratory Acidosis

A condition where low pH is caused by high CO2 due to inadequate ventilation.

Respiratory Alkalosis

A condition where high pH is caused by low CO2 due to hyperventilation.

Kussmaul respiration

A deep, labored breathing pattern indicative of metabolic acidosis.

Ventilator high pressure alarm

Triggered by resistance to airflow; often involves obstruction.

Ventilator low pressure alarm

Triggered by decreased airflow resistance; typically due to disconnection.

Dependency vs Codependency

Dependency: when someone relies on another for decisions. Codependency: when someone derives self-esteem from helping another.

Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome

A brain disorder from thiamine deficiency, resulting in confusion and memory loss.

Aminoglycosides

Powerful antibiotics used for serious infections but can cause toxicity, mainly affecting kidneys and ears.

Trough and peak

The lowest and highest concentration of a drug in the bloodstream, respectively.

Neutropenic Precautions

Precautions taken to protect immunocompromised patients from infections.

Thyroid storm

A medical emergency characterized by extreme hyperthyroidism, involving very high heart rates and fevers.

Hypoglycemia

Low blood sugar that can cause symptoms like dizziness, confusion, and fainting.

Diabetes Mellitus vs Diabetes Insipidus

DM relates to blood sugar regulation; DI relates to fluid balance due to low ADH.

Fundal height

Measurement used in pregnancy to assess fetal growth.

Naegele's Rule

A formula used to estimate a due date based on the first day of the last menstrual period.