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Showing posts from January, 2020

NEWBORN FACTS

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Following the birth of a newborn, what are some of the nursing responsibilities? Immediately following birth, armbands are placed on both mother and baby. A social assessment is done and the baby's vital signs, birth weight, head, and chest circumferences are all documented. What is the palmar reflex? The palmar reflex is what causes the neonate to grasp with the fingers when the palm of the hand is stroked. What happens with the rooting and sucking reflexes? Rooting and sucking reflexes are present at birth. They cause the neonate to suck. Additional newborn facts: - A newborn's heart rate averages between 120-160 beats per minute - A newborn's respirations averages between 35-60 breaths per minute - It is important to note that a newborn's neck is short and the neck muscles are weak. The nurse should be aware of supporting this area carefully. Learn more---

WHAT ARE ELECTROLYTES?

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What are electrolytes? How much do you know about this topic? Your questions can be answered by watching the video: /www.youtube.com/user/dearnurses/videos

HYPEREMESIS GRAVIDARUM

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Scenario: Megan is 12 weeks pregnant. She has been vomiting once or twice daily and is beginning to feel weak and tired. Her doctor arranged for hospital admission for observation and IV fluids. Symptoms of nausea and vomiting, often called morning sickness, are well known to the pregnant woman. Simple measures, like eating dry crackers and drinking liquids as tolerated, are usually implemented. What is Hyperemesis Gravidarum? Hyperemesis Gravidarum is considered to be more severe than regular morning sickness, often resulting in dehydration and an electrolyte imbalance. Hospitalization, antiemetic drugs, rest, and IV fluid replacement may become necessary. The cause of this condition is not clearly understood. However, there seems to be a connection with changes in hormone levels. What is the placenta? The placenta is an organ which develops during pregnancy. It supplies the fetus with nourishment and oxygen via the umbilical cord, which is attached to one side of the place

WHAT IS THE BRADEN SCALE?

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What is the Braden Scale? The Braden Scale is used to predict pressure ulcers. This may occur in patients who are confined to bed for a long period of time. The nurse is responsible for documentation of any skin breakdown. An air mattress may be ordered by the doctor to prevent this from happening . Always follow your institution's policies for using this scale . Pressure (decubitus) ulcers may readily develop in patients confined to bed for a long period of time.

SUICIDE IDEATION

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What is suicide ideation? A condition which may affect people of all age groups. It often follows depression and feelings of worthlessness. Read more -----

MECHANICAL VENTILATION - QUIZ QESTIONS

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Mechanical ventilation is an artificial means of administering oxygen to the patient who is in respiratory distress.  Here are some problems that may arise with the patient on mechanical ventilation: - Secretions in the tube, or the patient's airway     - Water in the tubing, or the tubing disconnected, this will cause the alarms to go off!) The scenario above is an example of a Code Blue in progress. Medical staff gather around to provide CPR . The patient will need mechanical ventilation. Troubleshooting: Typically, the ventilator alarms go off, as a warning sign. Troubleshooting of the patient and ventilator is usually done to find out the problem. During this time, adequate oxygenation for the patient is still necessary. For this  reason, an AMBU bag is used to provide oxygen, until the problem is fixed. What is an AMBU Bag? A - Artificial M - Manual B - Breathing U - Unit An AMBU bag is a piece of medical equipment that is used to help provide oxygen during an emergenc

WHAT IS A BAIR HUGGER?

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A Bair Hugger is an electrical warming blanket. It is commonly used in the PACU for warming patients after surgery. Read more----

STROKE SYMPTOMS

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The nurse is on rounds and finds a patient having stroke symptoms. He does an assessment, documents his findings and notifies MD for further orders. Would you know what to look for? Please enjoy watching the videos. Sessions 65 - Stroke or no Stroke   The New Nurse - Neurological Assessment