American journal of critical care : an official publication, American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
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Comparative Study Clinical Trial
Comparison of PT and aPTT values drawn by venipuncture and arterial line using three discard volumes.
Blood samples obtained through heparinized arterial catheters are used routinely for a variety of laboratory tests. Accuracy of coagulation studies performed from samples obtained in this fashion continues to be questioned, particularly in regard to the minimum discard volume necessary to clear the catheter of heparinized solution. ⋯ We recommend that when drawing prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time samples from an arterial line, a 5.3-mL discard volume be used.
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To develop a conceptual path model to explain the effects of a set of personal and work-related independent variables and the dependent variables of situational stress, job stress and job motivation on job satisfaction among critical care nurses. ⋯ Thirteen variables had a significant effect on job satisfaction and explained 63% of the variance. The four most significant effects on job satisfaction were opportunities for advancement, meaningfulness of work, pay and supervision. Commitment to the career, task identity and job security had a modest effect on job satisfaction.
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Clinical Trial
Effects of a closed tracheal suction system on ventilatory and cardiovascular parameters.
To determine whether patients ventilated in the assist-control mode experienced a change in oxygenation, respiratory rate, inspiratory:expiratory ratio, heart rate, blood pressure or acid-base balance when suctioned with a closed tracheal suction system. ⋯ Subjects ventilated in the assist-control mode and suctioned with a closed tracheal suction system did not experience significant changes in cardiovascular or acid-base parameters when suctioned without hyperoxygenation. Although most subjects did not become desaturated, four subjects experienced desaturation at one or more intervals. To prevent desaturation, hyperoxygenation should be used before and after suctioning with a closed tracheal suction system.
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To describe the characteristics and service utilization patterns of long-term ventilator-dependent patients. ⋯ Additional studies are necessary to describe the prevalence, etiology, health status and functional status of ventilator patients at all levels of care; the impact of different system approaches on patient well-being and cost of care; and the process of medical decision making. Economic analyses of costs and outcomes for ventilator-dependent patients using a cost-utility approach are also needed.