Assessment Intro

Question 1

What common things may happen when a patient deteriorates?

Answer 1

Increased respiratory rate, increased heart rate, reduced oxygenation

Question 2

What are the NICE guidelines minimum observations?

Answer 2

Heart rate (60-100bpm)
Respiratory Rate (12-16bpm)
Blood pressure (systolic = 90-140) (diastolic = 50-90)
Level of consciousness
Oxygen Sats (94-98%) (with COPD 88-92%)
Temperature (36.5-37.3)

Question 3

What are the possible causes of change in heart rate?

Answer 3

Exercise, low oxygenation, infection, heart disease, dehydration, blood loss, medication, stress, electrolyte imbalance, endocrine problems

Question 4

What are the possible causes of change in respiratory rate?

Answer 4

Respiratory disease/gas exchange, problems with cardiovascular system, endocrine imbalance, neurological problems, acid base balance

Question 5

What is one of the first signs of patient deterioration?

Answer 5

Respiratory rate

Question 6

What are the possible causes of change in blood pressure?

Answer 6

Heart disease, blood loss, dehydration, kidney disease, age, diet, lack of exercise, smoking, alcohol, vascular disease, endocrine problems, pain, anxiety

Question 7

Why do we assess patients?

Answer 7

Routine monitoring in community or outpatients, base line measurements, admission, ongoing assessment to detect deterioration or improvement, continuous monitoring, discharge, all the time - personal care etc

Question 8

How to prepare and approach an assessment?

Answer 8

Ensure correct environment, ensure privacy and dignity, ensure safety, ensure infection control, collect correct equipment, introduce yourself, gain verbal consent, correct identification of patient and communication