ICU Pearls Flashcards
What are the most important lab values to check on the first scan?
Lab Results
Potassium, Magnesium, Hemoglobin
These values are crucial for initial patient assessment in critical care settings.
What potassium level indicates a need for replacement?
Think complications
Potassium less than 4
Replacement is necessary to prevent complications related to low potassium levels.
What magnesium level indicates a need for replacement?
Magnesium less than 2
Adequate magnesium levels are essential for various physiological functions.
What hemoglobin level indicates a need for replacement?
Hemoglobin less than 7
Low hemoglobin levels can lead to anemia and require intervention.
What should you check if there is ectopy?
Think a few PVC or PAC - lab values
Check magnesium and potassium levels
Ectopy can be a sign of electrolyte imbalances.
What is important to know about a Heparin drip?
When is their next PTT due?
Monitoring PTT is critical for safe anticoagulation therapy.
What should you do after receiving the PTT result?
Review the Heparin order set for titration
This ensures the appropriate dosage adjustment based on coagulation status.
What should you never do with drips in ICU?
Never turn off your drips unless absolutely necessary
Maintaining drip continuity is vital for patient stability.
What are some drips to be concerned about?
Its 8 of them
- Levofed
- Epinephrine
- Vasopressin
- Dobutamine
- Dopamine
- Propopol
- Amiodarone
- Heparin
These medications require careful monitoring due to their potent effects.
When the provider insert a Swan-Ganz catheters how is it confirmed?
Confirm by x-ray and measure upon patient assessment
Proper placement of Swan-Ganz catheters is critical for accurate monitoring.
How often should you check the Swan-Ganz catheter position?
At least every 4 hours, preferably more frequently
Regular checks help prevent complications related to catheter displacement.
What is important about NG and OG tubes?
Confirm placement with x-ray; measure and mark position
Proper placement is essential to avoid complications such as aspiration.
What is the purpose of an arterial line?
To provide a constant and accurate measurement of blood pressure
Arterial lines are essential for continuous blood pressure monitoring in critical care.
What should you never do with an arterial line?
Never try to push medications through it
This can lead to serious complications or inaccurate pressure readings.
What does MAP stand for and what is its normal value?
Mean Arterial Pressure; normal value is 65
MAP is a critical parameter for assessing perfusion.
What should be done if MAP goes below 65?
Take action to increase blood pressure
Low MAP indicates inadequate perfusion and requires prompt intervention.
What should be checked at the top of every hour in ICU?
Urine output, Blood pressure, Heart rhythm, Heart rate, Respiratory rate, Oxygen saturation
These vital signs are crucial for ongoing patient assessment.
What should be assessed every 4 hours in ICU?
Patient’s pain, Temperature
Regular assessment helps manage pain and monitor for fever or infection.
What are Swan Gant numbers related to?
Cardiac monitoring
These numbers provide important information about cardiac function.
What is the purpose of ertic balloon pumps?
Support cardiac function
These devices are used in cases of severe heart failure to improve cardiac output.
