SR 23 - Common Causes of Ward Emergencies Flashcards
What can cause post-op hypotension?
Hypovolemia (iatrogenic, hemorrhage), Sepsis, MI, Cardiac dysrhythmia, Hypoxia, False reading, PTX, PE, Cardiac tamponade,
Medications
Response to post-op hypotension?
ABCs, examine, recheck BP, IV access and bolus, labs, EKG, puls ox/vital signs monitoring, CXr, O2, check meds/history, give IV antibiotics if sepsis is likely, compress all bleeding sites
Common postoperative causes of hypertension?
Pain (catecholamine release), anxiety, hypercapenia, hypoxia, preexisting condition, bladder distention
Response to post-op hypoxia?
ABCs, physical exam, vital signs/ pulse Ox, O2, IV access, ABG, EKG, CXR
Common postoperative causes of hypoxia/SOB?
Atelectasis, pnuemonia, mucous plug, PTX, PE, MI/dysrhythmia, venous blood in ABG syringe, SAT& machine malfunction/probe malposition, iatrogenic (wrong vent setting), severe anemia/hypovolemia, low CO, CHF, ARDS, fluid overload
What can cause a post-op change in mental status?
Hypoxia until ruled-out
Hypotention (cardiogenic shock), hypovolemia, iatrogenic (nacrotics/benzos), drug reaction, alcohol withdrawal, drug withdrawal, seizure, ICU psychosis, CVA, sepsis, metabolic derangements, intracranial bleeding, urinary retention in the elderly
What are the signs of alcohol withdrawal?
Confusion, tachycardia/autonomic instability, seizure, hallucinations
What are post op causes of tachycardia?
Hypovolemia/third-spacing, pain, alcohol withdrawl, anxiety/agitation, urinary retention, cardiac dysrhythmia (i.e. SV tachy, Afib with rapid rate), MI, PE, B-blocker withdrawal, anastomotic leak
What is the cause of post op decreases in urine output?
Hypovolemia, urinary retention, Foley catheter malfunction, cardiac failure, MI, ATN, ureteral/urethral injury, abdominal compartment syndrome, sepsis
How do you act initially in a case of decreased urine output?
Examine, vital signs, chek or place foley catheter, irrigate foley catheter, IV fluid bolus
