infectious diseases and alignment

alignment

the positioning of body parts in relation to each other to maintain correct body posture

ulcers and contractures

complications that may be prevented by correct alignment

2 hours

time that bedridden patients should have their position changed

reasons bedridden patients should be turned frequently

to exercise muscles, prevent ulcers and contractures, stimulate circulation

contracture

a tightening or shortening of a muscle caused by a lack of usage of the muscle

pressure ulcer

decubitus ulcer

pressure ulcer

pressure sore caused by prolonged pressure on an area of the body that interferes with circulation

stage 1 ulcer

blue red or grey discoloration that does not disappear when pressure is relieved

stage 2 ulcer

abrasion or bruising of open sore as a result of tissue damage to the top layer of skin

stage 3 ulcer

deep open crater forms and all layers of the skin are involved

stage 4 ulcer

damage extends to muscle, tendon, and bone

ways to prevent pressure ulcers

skin care, cleaning urine and feces, massaging in circular motions, frequent turning, clean linens

VAC (vacuum assisted closure)

device that seals the ulcer wound and applies a negative pressure to promote healing and prevent infection

times when the patient’s pulse should be checked when dangling

before, during, and after

reason for dangling

to see how the patient tolerates the procedure

five things to observe during any move or transfer

PR, BP, R, color change, signs of weakness

infectious diseases

illnesses caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites

infectious diseases

communicable or contagious diseases

spread of infectious disease

airborne droplets, direct contact, ingestion

common infectious diseases

cold, flu, strep, impetigo, ringworm

antibiotics

Penicillins, cephalosporins, tetracyclines, sulfonamides

antibiotic side effects

diarrhea, stomach ache, rash, itching, hives

CHF

occurs when the heart muscles do not beat adequately to supply the blood needs of the body

CHF symptoms

edema, dyspnea, pallor, cyanosis, weak rapid pulse

CHF treatments

diuretics, oxygen therapy, elastic support hose, bed rest, low sodium diet