Critical care nursing clinics of North America
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Crit Care Nurs Clin North Am · Mar 2005
ReviewThe role of thermoregulation in cardiac resuscitation.
Regulating a patient's body temperature has long been within the scope of practice of the critical care nurse. Different measures and modalities have been used to achieve normothermia in the past. Recent research has demonstrated how crucial body temperature can be, not only because of its potential for neuroprotection but also because of its effects on all body systems. The general consensus of current literature is that maintaining mild hypothermia at 32 degrees to 34 degrees C (89.6 degrees-93.2 degrees F) for 12 to 24 hours after cardiac arrest may provide optimal neuroprotection with minimal complications for patients.
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Crit Care Nurs Clin North Am · Mar 2005
ReviewMedication safety issues in the emergency department.
Medications used in emergency medicine are often "high alert" medications that have to be handled with deliberation. These medications, used every day in the emergency department, are associated with numerous errors. ⋯ This makes it important for emergency department nurses and health care professionals to develop and implement mechanisms for preventing error. Safety data has shown that these "high alert" medications must be handled appropriately.
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Crit Care Nurs Clin North Am · Mar 2005
ReviewRecommendations of the international guidelines 2000 conference on cardiopulmonary resuscitation and emergency cardiac care: an overview.
The greatest potential for survival of sudden cardiac arrest can be achieved only by providing early intervention using evidence-based therapies that have been studied over time. Emergency cardiac care and the 2000 advanced cardiac life support guidelines encompass all therapies that have been shown to improve outcomes in patients who experience life-threatening events that involve the cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and pulmonary systems. Early recognition of warning signs, activation of emergency medical systems within the community, basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation, early defibrillation, airway management, and intravenous medication administration are key factors in improving resuscitation outcomes.
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Crit Care Nurs Clin North Am · Mar 2005
Review Case ReportsFamily presence during cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
A recent phenomenon in emergency and critical care settings is the presence of family members during resuscitation events. It remains controversial in most institutions, but evidence is increasing that the experience has positive benefits for family members. ⋯ Three case studies are presented to illustrate typical events, including the potential role of the hospital chaplain. Recommendations for implementation are included.
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Crit Care Nurs Clin North Am · Mar 2005
ReviewUpdate on pediatric advanced life support guidelines.
Accidents are a leading cause of death for children in several nations. Motor vehicle accidents are among the most common causes of cardiac arrest. Other causes include drowning, burns, gunshot wounds, poisoning, smoke inhalation, and airway obstruction caused by asphyxiation from foreign bodies. ⋯ To prevent loss and improve quality of life, it is imperative to initiate measures to improve oxygenation and treat cardiac dysfunction. Guidelines for the management of life-threatening emergencies in infants and children are internationally similar but not identical. The Australian Resuscitation Council, the American Heart Association, and the European Resuscitation Council current guidelines all have some basic essential techniques for management of pediatric emergencies.