IDENTIFYING CODE BLUE AND THE ABG


Updated 7/26


The image above shows a Code blue in progress.
This is happening in the Emergency Room. Always
follow your Institution's policies and procedures for
Code Blue. 

What is the role of the nurse who is assigned to the Code Blue?

The nurse has an important role in effective communication.
There are many responsibilities.
- staying calm in a chaotic situation
- giving clear instructions to coworkers
- ensuring that MD orders are conveyed correctly
- proper documentation of vital signs and all treatments /
  interventions that take place ( defibrillation for example)
  - the nurse becomes the " binding force.


The heart is always at work. Hemodynamics refers
to blood flow. Any obstruction to the flow of blood
in and around the heart, may lead to failure.




=
Scenario: Ron has just arrived in the Emergency
Room with complaints of shortness of breath.
The nurse does an assessment. The doctor examines
Ron. He orders tests, which include an ABG and an EKG.

What is an ABG?
An ABG ( Arterial blood gas) is a blood test which is done
to evaluate a patient's oxygenation, when respiratory problems
exist. A heparinized syringe is used to draw blood from an artery,
in order to do this test
 (SEE ABOVE).

The results of the ABG will give insight into a patient's oxygen levels 
and other significant information. The results of the ABG will help the 
doctor to decide the course of treatment. Depending on the severity,
mechanical ventilation may be ordered by the doctor.




Scenario : The nurse is not paying attention!

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