ABCDE Flashcards
What is a haemothorax?
When blood has pooled in the pleural cavity of the lungs, usually due to trauma.
What do inotropes and vasopressors do?
They are drugs which increase vasoconstriction
Which examinations are normally conducted during the disability section of the ABCDE?
AVPU or Glasgow coma scale, reaction of eyes to light, and capillary blood glucose testing (arterial or venous blood glucose testing should be used in a peri-arrest patient. If the patient has decreased consciousness review their drug chart for reversible drug-induced causes of reduced consciousness.
-Unconscious patients should be nursed laterally.
Coarse crackles upon inspiration are commonly associated with which condition?
Pneumonia
The hearing of fine crackles during inspiration is often associated with which condition?
Pulmonary embolism
Which conditions could a lack of audible breathing noises in an area of the lungs be suggestive of?
Pneumothorax, haemothorax, pleural effusion or areas of lung consolidation. All these conditions represent air not reaching a portion of the lung due to pathological changes.
Which part of the ABCDE assessment should oxygen saturation be measured according to RCUK?
Breathing
What does CRT stand for and how is it performed?
Capillary refill time. Apply cutaneous pressure for 5 s on a fingertip held at heart level (or just above) with enough pressure to cause blanching. Time how long it takes for the skin to return to the colour of the surrounding skin after releasing the pressure. The normal value for CRT is usually < 2 s. A prolonged CRT suggests poor peripheral perfusion. Other
factors (e.g. cold surroundings, poor lighting, old age) can prolong CRT.
Where is the heart apex palpated in normal healthy individuals
On the left midclavicular line (which in males runs through the nipple) in the 5th intercostal space
In which part of the ABCDE is temperature recorded?
E
What is phlebitis?
Inflammation of a vein, specifically of the tunica intima. It is characterised by redness, pain, and swelling.
What are the three causes of phlebitis?
Mechanical, chemical, and infective.
What is induration?
Hardening of the vein and a ‘cord-like’ appearance.
With regards to IV administration, what are infiltration and extravasation?
Administration of fluids which unintendedly end up in the extracellular space instead of the intended vein. Infiltration and extravasation are when non-blistering and blistering fluids are delivered to the extracellular space; for example, sodium chloride solution and vancomycin.
What VIP score would recommend a PVC is relocated?
Two. A score of two would be given for a patient with two of the following symptoms- pain at the cannula site, erythema and swelling.
