Critical care nurse
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Critical care nurse · Feb 2023
ReviewA Decision Guide for Assessing the Recently Extubated Patient's Readiness for Safe Oral Intake.
Postextubation dysphagia is a known consequence of endotracheal intubation. Several risk factors for postextubation dysphagia have been identified that could be used to help determine which patients should undergo swallowing assessment by an appropriate professional. ⋯ The decision guide was an effective tool to help nurses and health care providers determine which patients should be referred to speech-language pathology professionals for swallowing assessment after extubation, facilitating the appropriate use of limited health care resources.
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Critical care nurse · Feb 2023
Using an Electromagnetic Guidance System for Placement of Small-Bowel Feeding Tubes to Reduce Feeding Start Times.
Cardiothoracic surgery patients have an increased risk for aspiration and may require enteral access for nutrition. ⋯ Using an electromagnetic device decreased feeding start times, reduced the need for support services, and increased advanced practice provider satisfaction with small-bowel feeding tube placement practices.
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Critical care nurse · Feb 2023
Awake Prone Positioning in Nonintubated Patients With Acute Hypoxemic Respiratory Failure.
Awake prone positioning research focuses primarily on improving oxygenation and reducing intubation and mortality rates. Secondary outcomes concerning patient safety have been poorly addressed. ⋯ Awake prone positioning was not related to cardiorespiratory consequences but was associated with pain, intolerance, discomfort, and patients' refusal. Patients should receive education regarding awake prone positioning to improve their acceptance. Health care professionals should optimize pain control, communication, patient comfort, patient adherence, and correct positioning.
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Critical care nurse · Feb 2023
ReviewParoxysmal Sympathetic Hyperactivity After Acquired Brain Injury: An Integrative Literature Review.
Paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity may occur in patients with acute brain injury and is associated with physical disability, poor clinical outcomes, prolonged hospitalization, and higher health care costs. ⋯ Critical care nurses should be aware of the signs and symptoms of paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity in patients with acute brain injury. Early identification is important to ensure timely treatment for patients with paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity.
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Following intensive care unit stays, patients with post-intensive care syndrome can experience mental health symptoms that impact quality of life. Intensive care unit diaries have been shown to improve outcomes for patients and their families. ⋯ Successful intensive care unit diary program implementation has the potential to benefit patients, families, and nursing staff for little organizational cost.