Critical care nursing clinics of North America
-
Although bronchoscopies have been performed for over a century and are relatively safe when practice guidelines are followed, they are invasive and a real source of anxiety and fear for the patient. The role of the critical care nurse is essential to a successful outcome. This article provides an overview of the main diagnostic and therapeutic indications, contraindications, and possible complications. Also discussed are patient education; patient and staff safety; and considerations before, during, and after the procedure.
-
Critical care nurses have a vital role in caring for patients undergoing centesis studies. Any centesis procedure involves puncturing a body cavity, joint, organ, or space with a hollow needle to withdraw fluid. ⋯ Because there are a variety of centesis procedures that the critical care nurse might encounter, the following centesis procedures are discussed in depth: amniocentesis, arthrocentesis, lumbar puncture, paracentesis, pericardiocentesis, and thoracentesis. By becoming more familiar with each of these procedures, the critical care nurse gains confidence in caring for clients when these procedures are indicated.