Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis Infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis Lungs most commonly infected 1/3 of world’s population has TB Leading cause of death in patients with HIV/AIDs Prevalence is decreasing in the United States Risk factors Homeless Residents of inner-city neighborhoods Foreign-born persons Living or working in institutions (includes health care workers) IV injecting drug users Poverty, […]

Complications of fractures

Complications of fractures Prevent complications of immobility Constipation Renal calculi Cardiopulmonary deconditioning DVT/pulmonary emboli Infection High incidence in open fractures and soft tissue injuries Devitalized and contaminated tissue  an ideal medium for pathogens Prevention is key Can lead to chronic osteomyelitis Antibiotics for treatment Compartment Syndrome Swelling and increased pressure within a confined space Compromises […]

Nursing Management: Fractures

Nursing Management: Fractures Neurovascular assessment Peripheral vascular Color and temperature Capillary refill Pulses Edema Motor function Sensory function Paresthesia Nursing diagnoses Impaired physical mobility related to loss of integrity of bone structures, movement of bone fragments, and prescribed movement restrictions Risk for peripheral neurovascular dysfunction related to vascular insufficiency and nerve compression secondary to edema […]

Role of Nursing Personnel : Fractures

Role of Nursing Personnel Registered Nurse (RN) Perform neurovascular assessment on the affected extremity. Assess for manifestations of compartment syndrome. Monitor cast during drying for denting or flattening. Teach patient and caregiver about cast care and complications of casting. Determine correct body alignment to enhance traction. Instruct patient and caregiver about traction and correct body […]

Electric bone growth stimulation

Electric bone growth stimulation Used to facilitate healing process Increase calcium uptake Activate intracellular calcium stores Increase bone growth factor production Non-invasive, semi-invasive, and invasive methods Drug therapy Central and peripheral muscle relaxants Carisoprodol (Soma) Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) Methocarbamol (Robaxin) Tetanus and diphtheria toxoid Bone-penetrating antibiotics Nutritional therapy Increase protein (1 g/kg of body weight) Increase […]

Fracture immobilization

Fracture immobilization Cast Temporary Allows patient to perform many normal activities of daily living Made of various materials Typically incorporates joints above and below fracture Upper extremity immobilization Sling To support and elevate arm Contraindicated with proximal humerus fracture Ensures axillary area is well padded No undue pressure on posterior neck Encourage movement of fingers […]

Fracture reduction

Fracture reduction Closed reduction Nonsurgical, manual realignment of bone fragments Traction and countertraction applied Under local or general anesthesia Immobilization afterwards Open reduction Surgical incision Internal fixation Risk for infection Early ROM of joint to prevent adhesions Facilitates early ambulation Traction Purpose Prevent or decrease pain and muscle spasm Immobilize joint or part of body […]

Factors influencing healing

Factors influencing healing Factors influencing healing Displacement and site of fracture Blood supply to area Immobilization Internal fixation devices Infection or poor nutrition Age Smoking Complication of fracture healing Delayed union Fracture healing progresses more slowly than expected. Healing eventually occurs. Nonunion Fracture fails to heal despite treatment. No x-ray evidence of callus formation Malunion […]

Preparation and handling of chemotherapy agents

Preparation and handling of chemotherapy agents May pose an occupational hazard Drugs may be absorbed through Skin Inhalation during preparation, transportation, and administration Only properly trained personnel should handle cancer drugs Chemotherapy methods of administration Oral More available options today Storage and side effects IM – Intramuscular IV – Intravenous (most common) Central venous access […]

Respiratory System : Cardiovascular System : Biochemical : Psychoemotional : Cancer

Respiratory System Pneumonitis Radiation pneumonitis develops 2-3 months after start of treatment. After 6-12 months, fibrosis occurs and is evident on x-ray. Side effect of some chemotherapy drugs. Monitor for dry, hacking cough; fever; and exertional dyspnea. Cardiovascular System Pericarditis and Myocarditis Inflammation secondary to radiation injury. Complication when chest wall is irradiated. May occur […]