Critical Care Concepts and Management

These flashcards cover key concepts, clinical manifestations, management protocols, and nursing considerations relevant to critical care settings.

What are the two key concepts of the Rule of Nines in burn assessment?

It divides the body into sections, each representing approximately 9% of total body surface area to estimate burn extent.

What is the Parkland formula used for?

To calculate fluid resuscitation needs for burn patients in the first 24 hours.

What types of shock primarily affect the nervous system?

Neurogenic shock and its clinical manifestations.

What are common clinical manifestations of a stroke?

Sudden numbness or weakness, confusion, trouble speaking, and loss of coordination.

What are the normal values for PT, INR, PTT that need to be reported?

Normal PT is 11-13.5 seconds, INR is 0.8-1.1, and PTT is 25-35 seconds.

What are three clinical manifestations of pneumothorax?

Sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, and decreased breath sounds.

How should hypothermia be managed during surgery?

Use warming blankets, warm IV fluids, and maintain room temperature.

What is the effect of electrical burns on the heart?

Can cause arrhythmias and potentially cardiac arrest.

What are possible complications for post-operative patients?

Infection, bleeding, and thromboembolic events.

What fluids are commonly used to manage hypovolemia?

Isotonic solutions like normal saline and lactated Ringer's solution.

What nursing considerations should be made when administering dopamine?

Monitor heart rate, blood pressure, and renal function.

What are signs of the compensatory stage of shock?

Increased heart rate, increased respiratory rate, and narrowed pulse pressure.

What are the side effects of dobutamine?

Tachycardia, hypotension, and potential arrhythmias.

What are the side effects of norepinephrine?

Increased blood pressure, reflex bradycardia, and tissue ischemia.

What is the management protocol for septic shock?

Early antibiotic administration, fluid resuscitation, and vasopressors.

What physiological effects occur during the compensatory stage of shock?

Increased heart rate, increased cardiac output, and shunting of blood to vital organs.

How is anaphylactic shock managed?

Immediate administration of epinephrine, IV fluids, and oxygen.

What is the management protocol for hemorrhagic shock?

Rapid fluid resuscitation with crystalloids and control of the source of bleeding.

What is the priority management during the compensatory stage of shock?

Restoration of perfusion and oxygen delivery to tissues.

What additional management can be implemented if fluid resuscitation is ineffective in shock?

Administration of vasoactive agents like norepinephrine or dopamine.

What is the priority action for a sexually assaulted patient?

Ensure the patient’s safety and emotional support while collecting forensic evidence.

How should hypothermia be managed?

Warming the patient using blankets, warm fluids, and avoiding rapid rewarming.

What is the management for opioid overdose?

Administer naloxone and provide supportive care.