Exam 7 Flashcards
What is Laryngospasm?
Partial or complete closure of the vocal core as an involuntary reflex action
What is Bronchospasm?
contraction of the smooth muscle in the walls of the bronchi and bronchioles, causing narrowing of the lumen
What is Atelectasis?
partial collapse of a lung when mucus obstructs a bronchus (coughing & deep breathing)
What could patients failure to breathe indicate?
obstruction, ongoing sedation, persistent muscle relaxants, circulatory failure leading to respiratory arrest
What are some portals of entry? (infection)
eyes, mucous membranes, open skin (cuts etc)
Precautions to take when dealing with Formalin (preserves surgical specimens)?
potent allergen/carcinogen, risk of splash injury, toxic fumes, PPE required, don’t rush task.
Precautions to take with Xray?
Time – limit exposure, distance – 6 feet away from x ray tube – greater distance less exposure, shielding – lead gowns, thyroid protectors, lead shields, radiation badge
The 3 key principles of Xray precautions?
Time, Distance, Sheilding
What does LASER stand for?
Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation
Risks posed by X-ray?
Staff exposed to scattered radiation, cumulative effect (cancer, cataracts, genetic mutations)
What are the benefits of surgical lasers?
precise control/accuracy, unobstructed view of site, minimal handling of tissues. dry, bloodless field. minimal thermal effects on surrounding tissue, reduce risk of infection, fast healing, reduce operating time
Types of LASER?
Argon, CO2, ND:YAG
LASER precautions:
Eye protection (must shield front/top/bottom/sides, different for each laser used), General safety.
General safety precautions for LASER use?
safety signs outside specific theatre, trained laser safety nurse, windows covered, only approved personnel use of laser, non-reflective instruments, awareness of fire hazard
What/where could anaesthetic gas leakage pose a risk?
anaesthetic machine/hose/connections, around pt face mask, pt expirations.
