Miscelaneous Flashcards
What are the normal ranges for the following lab values:
1) platelets
2) INR
3) aPTT
4) Fibrinogen
1) Platelets - 150,000 to 450,000
2) INR - 0.6 to 1.7
3) aPTT - 25 to 35 seconds
4) Fibrinogen - 200 to 300 mg/dL
Briefly describe the pathophysiology of DKA.
DKA occurs when the body breaks down fat at fast rate. The liver processes the fat into ketones which causes the blood to be acidic.
How are critical levels of Hyperkalemia treated?
Critically high levels of potassium is treated with IV Regular insulin (10 units), Dexteose 50%, and IV Calcium Gluconate.
The insulin helps to shift potassium into the cell, dextrose prevents hypoglycemia and the calcium gluconate prevents dysrhytmias caused by the high potassium level.
How do you differentiate stable and unstable angina?
Chest pain at rest is present in unstable angina but not in stable angina.
Describe Wolfe-Parkinson White Syndrome. What is the treatment? Which meds should be avoided?
Syndrome in which a person has an extra pathway between the heart’s upper and lower chambers causing a rapid heartbeat.
Treatment involves Procainamide or electrical cardioversion.
What is the first line medication used for hypertension in patients with a stroke? Why?
Lane talon - because it’s titratable
Which nursing actions are taken to ensure an accurate ICP reading?
The transducer should be leveled with the Tracy’s.
The head of the bed should be at 30 degrees.
How soon should a non-contrast CT be preserved upon arrival or recognition of a patient having a stroke?
Within 10 mins
Why is gradual rewarming in a hypothermic patient important and at what rate should it be done?
Gradual warming should be achieved at about 0.5 degrees Celsius per hour increase because rapid warming can lead to electrolyte abnormalities.
What is the cause of anemia of chronic inflammation (aka anemia of chronic illness) commonly seen in adults and critically ill patients?
Increased levels of inflammatory cytokines due to comorbid illness.
What is the main diagnostic marker for ARDS?
A PaO2/FiO2 ratio of less than 300 mmHg.
What is the Pituitary Gland? What are some conditions caused by problems with this gland?
Small gland at the base of the brain that controls hormones. Problems include Cushings, acromegaly, diabetes insipidus, etc.
How do you treat Anaphylactic shock?
Epinephrine to reduce the body’s allergic response .
Oxygen
IV antihistamines and cortisone to reduce inflammation
Albuterol to relieve breathing symptoms
How do you treat neurogenic shock?
Pressers
What are the two types of Neuromuscular blocking agents used during general anesthesia?
1) NDNMB - Non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocker.
2) DNMB - Depolarizing neuromuscular blockers