Assessment
Precise measurement and documentation of these assessment findings is critical for evaluating patient fluid volume status
Intake and output
This term is used to describe the amount of blood pumped out of the left ventricle with each contraction
Ejection fraction
This concept is defined as decrease in normal frequency of defecation accompanied by difficult passage of stool
Constipation
This intervention is the most important practice in the reduction of transmission of infection in healthcare settings
Hand hygiene
This lab value should be assessed prior to administering insulin lispro (rapid acting insulin)
Blood glucose
This tool is used to assess a patient's risk for skin breakdown
Braden scale
This condition (often occurring in patient’s undergoing anesthesia) is characterized by reversible collapse of the alveoli
Atelectasis
This concept is defined as altered epidermis and/or dermis
Impaired skin integrity
Although the efficacy is unclear this intervention (which requires precise measurement and documentation) is commonly used to treat patients with fluid volume excess
Fluid restriction
Prior to administering a beta blocker, these two vital signs are most critical to assess
HR and BP
This lab value is the best overall index of renal function
eGFR
This common cardiac arrhythmia is characterized by irregular quivering of the atria and is the leading cause of stroke
Atrial fibrillation
This concept is defined as insufficient physiological or psychological energy to complete daily activities
Activity intolerance
This device (which is often kept on the patient’s bedside table) is often used to help patients overcome atelectasis
Incentive spirometer
This electrolyte supplement is most often administered following diuresis with furosemide
Potassium
There are two commonly used tools to assess a patient’s risk for falls. Name one.
Johns Hopkins Fall Risk Assessment Tool or Morse Fall Scale
This condition is resulted by decreased or complete cessation of flow to a portion of the myocardium
Myocardial infarction
This concept is defined as inadequate blood pumped by the heart to meet the metabolic demands of the body
Decreased cardiac output
This patient position is best known for improving oxygenation and respiratory function by relaxing the diaphragm and allowing for greater expansion of the lungs
High or semi-Fowler’s position
Due to mechanism of action of this drug class (CNS depression), this vital sign is most important to review prior to administering an opioid analgesic
Respiratory rate
This ultrasound study is used to evaluate the structure and function of the heart muscle
Echocardiogram
This system is activated as a result of decreased cardiac output and is largely responsible for volume overload in patients with heart failure
Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System
This concept is defined as excess or deficit in O2 and/or CO2 elimination at the alveoli-capillary membrane
Impaired gas exchange
This common intervention is used to address a variety of nursing concerns including risk for skin breakdown, risk for DVT, constipation, and activity intolerance
Ambulation
This lab value indicates the length of time it takes blood to clot and is used in practice to make dosing adjustments to a heparin infusion
PTT