Heart & lung : the journal of critical care
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The purpose of the study was to explore individual and family experiences after sudden cardiac arrest and automatic internal cardioverter defibrillator implantation during the first year of recovery. This report specifically addresses the domains of concern expressed and helpful strategies used by participants that are relevant to the development of future intervention programs. ⋯ Domains of concern and helpful strategies identified by participants provide a framework for the development and testing of nursing intervention programs to enhance recovery following sudden cardiac arrest for survivors and their families.
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This case study illustrates salient issues in the communication and decision making of parents in a neonatal intensive care unit. The case provides descriptions that may be typical features of interaction between parents and professionals in a neonatal intensive care unit. Conclusions are drawn from this case with recommendations for practice.
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The goal of this study was to characterize the spectrum of upper-extremity deep venous thrombosis in a community teaching hospital. ⋯ Upper-extremity deep venous thrombosis typically occurs in patients with a systemic illness in the presence of a central venous catheter. The left subclavian vein is frequently involved because this is a common site for placement of a central venous catheter. Pain is uncommon, but edema of the involved extremity is noted in the majority of patients. The mortality rate of patients in this study with an upper-extremity deep venous thrombosis was 12%; most patients who died had a central venous catheter and an underlying infection.
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To demonstrate combining unheated bubble-through humidifier with a heat-moisture exchanger filter for the purpose of decreasing condensate contamination in mechanical ventilator tubing. ⋯ It can be inferred that the humidification method using the combination of an unheated bubble-through humidifier and a heat moisture exchanger filter has the potential benefit of preventing "reseeding" of the patient's airway with contaminated condensate.
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Treatment interference, the disruption or self-removal of technologic devices, is a primary reason for application of physical restraints in acute and critical care settings. The processes of care surrounding treatment interference and the prevention of device disruption have not been comprehensively analyzed. ⋯ This analysis considers the social context of the intensive care unit, including roles and the human-technology interaction. It illustrates the tremendous responsibility that nurses assume in maintaining technologic devices. Next steps in research and policy development are also considered.