Cellulitis: Pharmacological Treatment
Antibiotic therapy like penicillin
Definition of neutropenia
An abnormally low count of a type of white blood cell (neutrophils). It can be caused by diseases that damage the bone marrow, infections, or certain medications. There can be no symptoms other than an increased vulnerability to infection.
Palliative Care: Definition
End of life care. Goal is to improve the quality of life by focusing on the relief of physiological (pain) and spiritual needs.
C. Diff hand hygiene patient education
Do not use alcohol based sanitizer. Use soap and water only.
Nutrients for Wound Healing
High calories, Protein, Vitamin C, Vitamin E/A. Ensure glycemic control if patient has DM
T/F: WBC would be elevated in a patient who is immunocompromised.
False, it would be decreased
Can acute pain lead to chronic pain?
Yes, if acute pain is unrelieved. Chronic pain is defined as lasting longer than 6 months & persisting beyond tissue healing.
Examples of Mode of Transmission: Droplet Precautions
Sneezing, coughing, and talking
Psoriasis: Symptoms
Scaly patches, Pruritic skin primarily on scalp, elbows, sacrum, knees. Pitting, crumbling nails.
HIV: Expected Findings
Chill, Rash, Anorexia, nausea, weight lo, Weakness and fatigue, Headache and sore throat, Night sweats
Idiopathic Pain: Definition
A form of chronic pain without a known cause OR pain that exceeds typical pain levels associated with the patients condition (migraine, face pain)
Labs that test for infections
WBC/Leukocytosis, Elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) over 20 mm/hr (an increase indicates an active inflammatory process or infection) & presence of microorganisms in cultures
Pressure Ulcers: Nursing Interventions
Avoid skin trauma, maintain skin hygiene, encourage proper nutrition and provide supportive devices
Nursing Actions for a patient on neutropenic precautions
Private room, place mask during transport, no live plants/stagnant water/contaminated equipment. Avoid invasive procedures (rectal temps, injections) unless necessary. keep dedicated equipment in the room.
Behaviors for patients who are non-verbal and in pain
BP, pulse, RR increase. Facial expressions, body movements, moaning, crying, decreased attention span.
Examples of infections that need contact precautions
C. Diff, wound infections, herpes, impetigo, MDRO, scabies. Refer to Stromberg Book
Skin Diagnostic Studies
Wood's light examination, Diascopy, Skin Culture & Sensitivity (ATI pg 433)
Examples of immunosuppresant agents in Lupus
Methotrexate and Azathioprine are used to suppress immune response. Belimumab is an antibody to reduce the autoimmune suppression.
Under treatment of pain OR sedation, coma, respiratory depression from overdosing on opioids.
Requirements for Airborne precaution rooms
Private room, Masks (N95)/respiratory protection devices for caregivers and visitors, Negative pressure airflow. Patients who have an airborne infection should wear a mask while outside of the room/home.