Critical care nurse
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Critical care nurse · Aug 2020
Comparative StudyImplementation of an Interdisciplinary AACN Early Mobility Protocol.
Increasing mobility in the intensive care unit is an important part of the ABCDEF bundle. Objective To examine the impact of an interdisciplinary mobility protocol in 7 specialty intensive care units that previously implemented other bundle components. ⋯ Implementing the American Association of Critical-Care early mobility protocol in intensive care units with ABCDEF components in place can increase mobility levels, decrease length of stay, and decrease delirium with minimal complications.
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Critical care nurse · Aug 2020
Observational StudyInterobserver Reliability of Glasgow Coma Scale Scores for Intensive Care Unit Patients.
Intensive care units frequently use the Glasgow Coma Scale to objectively assess patients' levels of consciousness. Interobserver reliability of Glasgow Coma Scale scores is critical in determining the degree of impairment. ⋯ Although the study showed near-perfect agreement between the 2 researchers' Glasgow Coma Scale scores, agreement among nurses and the 2 researchers was moderate (not near perfect) for subcomponent and sum scores. Accurate Glasgow Coma Scale evaluation requires that intensive care unit nurses have adequate knowledge and skills. Educational strategies such as simulations or orientation practice with a preceptor nurse can help develop such skills.
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Critical care nurse · Aug 2020
Answering the Call: Impact of Tele-ICU Nurses During the COVID-19 Pandemic.
The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has exacerbated staffing challenges already facing critical care nurses in intensive care units. Many intensive care units have been understaffed and the majority of nurses working in these units have little experience. ⋯ Tele-intensive care unit nurses provided a proactive, holistic approach to caring for critically ill patients via camera as part of their routine workflow. In addition, during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, these nurses created a new strategy in virtual health care to be implemented during a crisis.