Patient Care and Nervous System Overview
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Questions and Answers

What vital sign is expected in a patient experiencing hypoxia?

  • Normal heart rate
  • Hypotension
  • Bradycardia
  • Tachycardia (correct)

Which of the following lung sounds would indicate abnormal function?

  • Auscultated wheezes (correct)
  • Normal breath sounds
  • Silent breathing
  • Vesicular sounds

What is a potential consequence of autonomic dysreflexia?

  • Increased heart rate
  • Decreased respiratory rate
  • Increased blood pressure (correct)
  • Decreased body temperature

What type of medication is beneficial to reduce inflammation in spinal cord injuries?

<p>Steroids (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key symptom that may indicate fatigue in a patient with a neuromuscular condition?

<p>Shortness of breath (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one common sign of early-stage organ failure in a patient?

<p>Hypotension (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which condition may lead to respiratory issues that can be fatal?

<p>Neonatal growth disorders (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might cause a sympathetic response without the patient being aware of pain?

<p>Incomplete spinal cord injury (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What could be a consequence of untreated autonomic dysreflexia?

<p>Myocardial infarction (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What symptoms might suggest autonomic dysreflexia in a patient?

<p>Severe headache and hypertension (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What condition is typically associated with poor prognosis when diagnosed late?

<p>Ovary cancer (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is likely the reaction of the heart to maintain oxygenation in a hypoxic state?

<p>Tachycardia (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the best approach for patients to prepare questions for their healthcare provider?

<p>Write down questions ahead of time (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What abnormal lung sound should be reported immediately in a clinical setting?

<p>Stridor (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant cause of diabetes as discussed?

<p>Too little of something (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom is associated with diabetes?

<p>Dehydration (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What laboratory finding might be expected in a patient with diabetes?

<p>High blood sugar concentration (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the proper terminology for someone who is partially blind?

<p>Partially sighted (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What side effect should be monitored when administering Pimolol?

<p>Decreased respiratory rate (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary action of beta-blockers like Pimolol?

<p>Blocking adrenaline receptors (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might happen if a patient with diabetes does not receive insulin?

<p>Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of dehydration in relation to diabetes?

<p>It raises blood pressure (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What signifies a potential problem in hormone levels in diabetes?

<p>Unbalanced hormone production (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of receptor do beta-blockers like Pimolol primarily affect?

<p>beta-adrenergic (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is typically not a recommended diet for a patient with swallowing difficulties?

<p>Solid foods without modifications (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided when interacting with a visually impaired person?

<p>Making sudden movements (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What could be a sign of increased cranial tension according to the discussion?

<p>Severe headaches (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a commonly accepted name for a 'space guy' in medical terms?

<p>Speech therapist (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does STEMI stand for?

<p>ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases?

<p>Physical activity (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What lab finding is expected in a patient with polycythemia vera?

<p>High hemoglobin levels (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of hydroxyurea in sickle cell disease?

<p>To reduce the frequency of sickle cell crises (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How often should an AIDS patient take their medication to avoid drug resistance?

<p>As prescribed for life (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom is associated with left-sided heart failure?

<p>Coughing up blood (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In sickle cell disease, what triggers a crisis?

<p>Stress or cold temperatures (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary characteristic of sickle cell hemoglobin?

<p>It forms a sickle shape upon deoxygenation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes the clinical stages of HIV infection?

<p>CD4 count determining the transition to AIDS (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an essential precaution for a patient with significant pain?

<p>To avoid non-cooked food (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of administering fluids during a sickle cell crisis?

<p>To hydrate and prevent sickling of cells (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What process is essential to determine the severity of HIV infection?

<p>CD4 count measurement (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected hematologic finding in a patient with sickle cell disease?

<p>Presence of sickle-shaped cells (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most common cause of hypovolemic shock?

<p>Severe dehydration (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What intervention is typically recommended first to manage hypertension?

<p>Lifestyle modifications (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of a white cell count under 2000 in an HIV patient?

<p>Suggests the presence of severe infection (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action if the patient's temperature rises by one degree Fahrenheit during a blood transfusion?

<p>Stop the transfusion immediately (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the case of a cervical spine injury, what type of shock may occur?

<p>Neurogenic shock (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How long should healthcare providers remain in the room after starting a blood transfusion?

<p>For the first 15 minutes (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the target blood pressure for defining normality in adults?

<p>Under 120 over 80 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must be checked before administering blood?

<p>Patient’s ID and blood type (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common sign of a reaction during a blood transfusion?

<p>Rash or itching on the skin (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of hematocrit levels in relation to hemoglobin?

<p>Hematocrit indicates blood volume (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What vital sign does NOT indicate a possible transfusion reaction?

<p>Consistent blood pressure (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about blood tubing is correct?

<p>Blood tubing has a wider lumen for administering blood (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if there is a significant change in blood pressure during a blood transfusion?

<p>Immediately stop the transfusion and assess the patient (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which group is at the greatest risk for developing hyperkalemia?

<p>Patients with kidney disease (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'foreign invader' refer to in the context of a blood transfusion?

<p>An antigen from the transfused blood (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a possible consequence of delayed transfusion reactions on the kidneys?

<p>Kidney infection due to overload (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of shock can result from obstructive causes?

<p>Obstructive shock (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How often should an HIV patient check for signs of infection?

<p>Every day (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When is the appropriate time to conduct vitals checks during a blood transfusion?

<p>Before starting the transfusion and 50 minutes into it (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a sub-category of hypovolemic shock?

<p>Hemorrhagic shock (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is required if the IV fluid is blood?

<p>Ensure proper blood typing and cross-matching (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern with shock, regardless of its type?

<p>Blood flow to vital organs (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern when monitoring a patient after a cardiac catheterization?

<p>Monitoring the femoral site for any bleeding (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of nitroglycerin during a heart attack?

<p>To open the coronary artery (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What medication is primarily used to relieve chest pain during a heart attack?

<p>Morphine (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a normal ECG rhythm strip, what follows the QRS complex?

<p>The T wave (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by the presence of more P waves than QRS complexes on an ECG strip?

<p>Atrial fibrillation (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does a STEMI indicate during an ECG reading?

<p>Myocardial infarction (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is oxygen administered to patients experiencing a heart attack?

<p>To ensure sufficient oxygen supply to the heart (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a normal heartbeat pattern on an ECG, what occurs between the P wave and QRS complex?

<p>A pause (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the QRS complex represent on an ECG?

<p>Ventricular depolarization (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which drug can prevent further clotting after a heart event?

<p>Aspirin (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might an elevated T wave indicate on an ECG?

<p>Myocardial ischemia (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of administering blood thinners like heparin after a heart attack?

<p>To prevent new clots from forming (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of drug is primarily used to manage atrial fibrillation?

<p>Calcium channel blockers (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary reason for putting a patient on a bathroom schedule?

<p>To prevent frequent bed exits (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What purpose does a bed alarm serve for patients at risk of falling?

<p>To notify staff when a patient gets out of bed (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What practice can help reduce fall risks in patients' homes?

<p>Pushing electrical cords against the wall (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens at a synapse?

<p>Neurotransmitters cross between two nerve cells (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding age-related changes in older adults?

<p>Common changes may not necessarily be normal (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential to differentiate between common and abnormal signs in aging?

<p>To address potential health issues effectively (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential reason for a patient frequently getting out of bed?

<p>To reach for objects they cannot see (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What defines the relationship between an axon and the target cell at a synapse?

<p>They are linked through neurotransmitters (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common characteristic of conductive hearing loss?

<p>It frequently involves the outer or middle ear. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of glaucoma is considered an emergency?

<p>Close-angle glaucoma (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common cause of otitis media in toddlers?

<p>Positioning while feeding (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does vision loss progress for most people?

<p>It typically leads to reduced depth perception. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a tympanometry test?

<p>To measure the pressure in the middle ear. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What often indicates that a toddler has an ear infection?

<p>Pulling on their ear (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common symptom of severe vertigo?

<p>Desire to stay in a dark room (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a symptom of hearing loss?

<p>Ringing in the ears (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do doctors typically advise regarding children lying down while feeding?

<p>It can lead to ear infections. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medical term is used for the condition of 'ear wax buildup'?

<p>Cerumen impaction (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do ear drops need to be administered properly?

<p>With the ear facing upwards. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the medical terminology for a limb that is cold and lacking blood flow?

<p>Ischemic limb (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes acute otitis media?

<p>It often follows upper respiratory infections. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the sensation of pain in patients experiencing reduced depth perception?

<p>Pain thresholds become inconsistent. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Fall Precautions

Measures taken to prevent falls in older adults, especially in hospital or home settings.

Bed Alarm

A device that alerts caregivers when a patient gets out of bed, often used for fall prevention.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers that transmit signals across the synapse, connecting nerve cells.

Synapse

The tiny space between two nerve cells where neurotransmitters are released and received.

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Age-Related Changes

Normal physical and cognitive changes that occur as people age.

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Dementia

A chronic brain disorder that affects thinking, memory, and behavior, NOT a normal age-related change.

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Common vs. Normal

While some changes in older adults are common, they might not be normal. Dementia is an example.

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Medications and Fall Risk

Certain medications can increase the risk of falls in older adults due to side effects.

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Late-Stage Neuromuscular Condition

A condition affecting muscles, often causing weakness and atrophy, leading to possible respiratory issues and even death.

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Autonomic Dysreflexia

A dangerous condition that occurs in people with spinal cord injuries, causing sudden high blood pressure, sweating, and other symptoms.

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Autonomic Dysreflexia Triggers

Anything that causes discomfort or pain below the level of the spinal cord injury can trigger this condition.

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Signs and Symptoms of Autonomic Dysreflexia

Increased blood pressure, sweating, headache, goosebumps, and even a slowed heart rate.

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Hypotension in Autonomic Dysreflexia

While high blood pressure is the main concern, low blood pressure can occur in some cases.

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Vital Signs in Hypoxia

Increased heart rate (tachycardia), rapid breathing (tachypnea), and altered lung sounds.

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Steroids for Spinal Cord Injury

Steroids are given within 8 hours of a spinal cord injury to reduce inflammation and minimize damage.

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Ovarian Cancer Prognosis

Often diagnosed late, making the prognosis poor, which means the chances of survival are low.

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Patient's Questions and Social Work

When a patient has many questions, it is crucial to involve their family in the conversation and write down the questions to be addressed by the doctor.

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Common vs Normal in Elderly

Some changes in older adults are common, but not necessarily normal.

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VDRL Test

A blood test used to determine if a person has syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection.

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First-Line Diagnostic Test

The initial test used to diagnose a condition, often a simple and inexpensive option.

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Scenario-Based Learning

Using real-life situations to reinforce learning, often involving problem-solving scenarios.

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Medical Emergency Recognition

The ability to identify a medical emergency quickly and initiate appropriate steps.

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What is the priority after a cardiac catheterization?

Checking for bleeding at the insertion site, usually the femoral artery, is the top priority after a cardiac catheterization procedure. It's important to prevent potential complications from bleeding.

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Why is Nitroglycerin given in a heart attack?

Nitroglycerin helps dilate the coronary arteries, improving blood flow to the heart muscle and potentially reducing chest pain. It's often given to alleviate pain and improve heart function.

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What is Morphine used for in a heart attack?

Morphine is given to manage chest pain in heart attack patients. While nitroglycerin aims to improve blood flow, morphine directly addresses the pain experienced.

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What is STEMI and how is it identified on an EKG?

STEMI stands for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, a type of heart attack with a specific pattern on the EKG. It involves a significant elevation above the baseline in the ST segment.

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What is the QRS complex on an EKG?

The QRS complex represents the electrical activity of the ventricles, the main pumping chambers of the heart. It reflects the depolarization and contraction of the ventricles.

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What is a 'P-wave' on an EKG?

The P-wave on an EKG represents the electrical activity of the atria, the upper chambers of the heart. It reflects the depolarization and contraction of the atria.

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What does an EKG look like in Atrial Fibrillation?

In Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), there are many more P-waves than QRS waves on the EKG. This is because the atria are beating rapidly and irregularly, while the ventricles are not.

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STEMI

A type of heart attack where the ST segment on an electrocardiogram (ECG) is elevated, indicating a blockage of blood flow to the heart muscle.

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Myocardial Infarction

A heart attack caused by a blockage of blood flow to the heart muscle, leading to damage.

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Risk Factors for Heart Attack

Factors that increase the chances of developing a heart attack, such as smoking, obesity, high cholesterol, diabetes, and family history.

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Turbulence in Heart (Murmur)

A sound produced by the turbulent flow of blood through the heart chambers or valves, often heard during a physical exam.

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Left-Sided Heart Failure

A condition where the left ventricle of the heart cannot pump blood effectively, causing fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary edema) and other symptoms.

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Right-Sided Heart Failure

A condition where the right ventricle of the heart cannot pump blood effectively, causing fluid buildup in the body (peripheral edema) and other symptoms.

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Reverse Transcriptase

An enzyme that converts RNA into DNA, a key process in HIV infection.

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Stages of HIV Infection

HIV infection progresses through distinct stages: initial infection, latency, and AIDS.

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CD4 Count

The number of CD4+ T cells in the blood, used to monitor the progression of HIV infection.

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HIV Medication Adherence

Taking HIV medication as prescribed and consistently, essential for effective treatment and prevention of resistance.

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Trauma Site Pain Management

Managing pain after a traumatic injury, often involving medications, immobilization, and other supportive measures.

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Polycythemia

A condition where the body produces too many red blood cells, increasing blood viscosity and potentially causing blood clots.

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Sickle Cell Anemia

A genetic blood disorder where red blood cells become sickle-shaped, hindering oxygen transport and causing pain.

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Hydroxyurea for Sickle Cell Anemia

A medication used to reduce the frequency and severity of sickle cell crises by increasing the production of fetal hemoglobin.

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Sickle Cell Crisis

A painful episode in sickle cell anemia caused by sickle-shaped red blood cells blocking small blood vessels, leading to tissue damage and oxygen deprivation.

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Blood Transfusion Reaction

A negative response to a blood transfusion, often occurring within the first 15 minutes.

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Blood Transfusion Reaction Signs

Signs include fever, changes in blood pressure, heart rate, and the appearance of a rash or itching.

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Blood Transfusion Monitoring

Frequent vital signs checks are crucial to monitor for transfusion reactions.

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Blood Transfusion Temperature Change

Even a slight increase in temperature (1 degree Fahrenheit) during a transfusion is a serious sign.

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Blood Transfusion Backache

A backache during a transfusion can indicate a reaction, specifically a breakdown of blood cells.

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Blood Transfusion Complications

Kidney problems can arise due to the breakdown of blood cells and the body's attempt to filter out the waste.

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Witnessing Blood Transfusion

Having another healthcare professional present during a transfusion is important for safety and documentation.

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Blood Transfusion Patient Monitoring

Closely monitoring the patient for any adverse reactions throughout the transfusion is essential.

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Hemoglobin and Hematocrit

Tests used to measure the amount of red blood cells in a person's blood. Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Hematocrit is the percentage of red blood cells in the total blood volume.

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HIV Transmission

HIV can spread through bodily fluids like blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. It is most commonly transmitted through unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from mother to child during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding.

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HIV Patient Education

Patients with HIV need to be educated about infection prevention, medication adherence, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This includes safe sex practices, proper needle disposal, and regular medical checkups.

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Low White Blood Cell Count

A low white blood cell count (below 2000) is called neutropenia. This makes patients more susceptible to infections.

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Lifestyle Modifications for Hypertension

Changing lifestyle habits like diet, exercise, and stress management is the initial approach to managing hypertension. This can help lower blood pressure and reduce the need for medications.

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F-E-4

A medication used for hypertension. It may be associated with a particular class of drugs, but the specific medication or its relevance to the situation needs further context.

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F-1-C

A medication used for hypertension. It might be helpful to understand the full medication names and their applications.

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Neurogenic Shock

A type of shock caused by damage to the nervous system. This leads to a loss of blood vessel tone, causing a drop in blood pressure and inadequate blood circulation throughout the body.

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Types of Shock

Different types of shock, categorized by the underlying cause, can be categorized into four primary groups, with several subcategories.

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Septic Shock

A severe, life-threatening condition caused by a systemic inflammatory response due to infection. This leads to a circulatory collapse and potentially organ damage.

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Hypovolemic Shock

A condition where the body loses a significant amount of blood or fluid, resulting in decreased blood volume and inadequate circulation.

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Hypotensive Shock

A dangerous condition characterized by extremely low blood pressure, often caused by various reasons, including heart problems, severe infections, or loss of blood.

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Hypertension Stages

Hypertension stages are defined by blood pressure readings. Stages range from Stage 1 to Stage 3, each with a different risk level and treatment approach.

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New Hypertension Diagnosis

A patient newly diagnosed with hypertension needs proper education, lifestyle modification advice, and potential medication.

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Blood Transfusion Procedure

Administering blood to a recipient involves specific steps, including checking identification, verifying blood compatibility, and using special tubing for blood administration.

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What is conductive hearing loss?

A type of hearing loss where sound waves cannot reach the inner ear due to a blockage in the outer or middle ear.

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What is a 'tonometer' and what does it measure?

A device used to measure the pressure inside the eye, also known as intraocular pressure.

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What is the hallmark symptom of closed-angle glaucoma?

Sudden, severe pain in the eye.

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What is 'otitis externa'?

An infection of the outer ear canal, commonly known as 'swimmer's ear'.

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What is 'otitis media'?

An infection of the middle ear, commonly seen in young children.

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Why are toddlers more prone to 'otitis media'?

Their Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the throat, are shorter and narrower, making it easier for bacteria to enter.

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What is the Eustachian tube's function?

It connects the middle ear to the throat, helping to equalize air pressure and drain fluids.

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What is the medical term for a phantom limb?

Phantom limb syndrome.

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What is 'vertigo'?

A sensation of dizziness or spinning, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

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What is the common cause of gradual hearing loss in one ear?

Presbycusis, age-related hearing loss.

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What is the medical term for a melty look?

Myxedema.

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What are the key features of 'breastfeeding features'?

A set of symptoms experienced by a new mother, including fatigue, mood swings, and difficulty sleeping.

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What is the medical term for a crowded radio movement?

A situation where there are too many people in a small space, potentially causing discomfort.

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What is the common cause of conductive hearing loss in children?

Fluid buildup in the middle ear, often caused by ear infections.

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What is STEMI?

STEMI stands for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. It's a type of heart attack with a specific pattern on the EKG, showing a significant elevation above the baseline in the ST segment.

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What does 'T-wave elevation' mean on an EKG?

T-wave elevation on an EKG often indicates damage to the heart muscle. The T-wave represents the heart's electrical activity during repolarization, and elevation suggests a problem with the muscle's recovery after a heart attack.

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What's the difference between a 'P' and a 'T' wave on an EKG?

The P wave represents atrial depolarization (contraction), while the T wave represents ventricular repolarization (recovery) after contraction. They can look similar, but the T wave will always follow the QRS complex.

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What are some common signs of a heart attack?

Common signs of a heart attack include chest pain or discomfort, sweating, shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, pain radiating to the arm, jaw, or back, and feeling faint or lightheaded.

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What is a 'rhythm strip' on an EKG?

A rhythm strip is a continuous recording of the heart's electrical activity over a period of time. This is different from a standard 12-lead EKG, which provides a snapshot of the heart's electrical activity at a specific point in time.

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What is a 'heart murmur'?

A heart murmur is an abnormal sound heard during a physical exam. It's caused by turbulent blood flow through the heart chambers or valves, often indicating a problem with the heart's structure or function.

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What is 'tachycardia'?

Tachycardia is an abnormally fast heart rate, often above 100 beats per minute. This can be caused by several factors, including exercise, stress, anxiety, heart disease, and certain medications.

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What is 'bradycardia'?

Bradycardia is an abnormally slow heart rate, typically below 60 beats per minute. This can be caused by various factors, including sleep, certain medications, athletic conditioning, or heart conditions.

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What is the cause of diabetes?

Diabetes is caused by either the body not producing enough insulin (Type 1) or the body not responding properly to insulin (Type 2).

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What are the signs and symptoms of diabetes?

Symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, increased hunger, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, slow-healing sores, and frequent infections.

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What would you expect to see in lab results for someone with diabetes?

Depending on the type of diabetes and its severity, lab results may show high blood sugar levels, high HbA1c (reflecting long-term blood sugar control), and possibly electrolyte imbalances.

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What is the proper term for someone who is partially blind?

The proper term is "visually impaired." We don't use the word 'blind' for someone with partial vision loss.

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What should you do before walking into the room of someone with a visual impairment?

Before entering the room, make your presence known. Don't startle them with sudden movement.

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What is Pimolol?

Pimolol is a type of beta-blocker medication. It is technically a 'beta-1 selective' blocker, meaning it primarily targets the receptors in the heart.

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What is a beta blocker used for in respiratory conditions?

While beta-blockers primarily affect the heart, they can also sometimes be used for certain respiratory conditions, such as those related to asthma or bronchospasm. However, the way they work in this context is different from their main cardiovascular use.

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What type of receptor is the beta receptor?

The beta receptor is an adrenergic receptor. Adrenergic receptors are activated by hormones like epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine, which play roles in the sympathetic nervous system.

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What are the signs and symptoms of triggering the sympathetic nervous system?

Signs and symptoms include increased heart rate, dilated pupils, faster breathing, sweating, and a surge of energy.

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What is a speech therapist's role in caring for a patient with a swallowing disorder?

Speech therapists help patients with dysphagia (swallowing difficulties) by evaluating their swallowing abilities, providing exercises to improve swallowing function, and recommending dietary modifications.

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What kind of dietary changes might a speech therapist recommend for someone with a swallowing disorder?

Therapists may recommend altering food textures (thinning liquids, avoiding sticky foods), modifying meal sizes, and adjusting eating positions to facilitate safe swallowing.

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Define cranial tension.

Cranial tension refers to a tightness or pressure in the head. This can be caused by various factors including stress, headaches, and muscle tension.

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Explain the potential impact of increased cranial tension on a person's health.

Increased cranial tension can cause a variety of symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, and visual disturbances. It can also affect a person's mood and concentration.

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What is the importance of understanding the signs and symptoms of various medical conditions?

Recognizing signs and symptoms early can help catch medical problems at an earlier stage, allowing for more effective treatment and improving outcomes.

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Why is it important to monitor patient vital signs during a blood transfusion?

Monitoring vital signs like temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate helps detect signs of a transfusion reaction, allowing for prompt intervention to prevent complications.

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Study Notes

Patient Care and Fall Precautions

  • Fall Prevention: Ensure patient belongings are within reach.
  • Bathroom Scheduling: Assist patients to the restroom according to their needs.
  • Home Modifications: Remove tripping hazards like extension cords.
  • Bed Alarms: Use bed alarms to monitor patient movement.
  • Patient safety: Protect patients from falls and injuries in hospitals and home.

Nervous System and Synapses

  • Synapse: The junction between two nerve cells where neurotransmitters pass.
  • Location: Between the axon of one nerve cell and the dendrite of another.
  • Neurotransmission: Neurotransmitters cross the synapse.
  • Dementia: Changes in cognitive function can be influenced by age but are not part of typical aging.

Neuromuscular Conditions

  • Respiratory Issues: Conditions that impact the neuromuscular system can lead to respiratory problems and even death.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Synthetic Nervous System: Symptoms related to the nerves.
  • Autonomic Dysreflexia: Triggered by pain or discomfort, causing a sympathetic response and potential blood pressure issues.
  • Fatigue: May be a sign of underlying issues.
  • Vertigo: Associated with potential vomiting and motion sensitivity in patients.

Other Medical Conditions

  • Ovarian Cancer: Typically carries a poor prognosis.
  • Diabetes: Causes dehydration, high blood pressure, and potentially low electrolyte levels.

Diagnostic Tests

  • VDRL: Initial diagnostic test for syphilis.

Patient Positioning

  • Side Positioning: Protecting the head is usually important.

Medical Terminology

  • Partially Blind: Described as visually impaired.
  • Opioid Limb: A type of injury that includes a melty look.

Medications

  • Pimolol: Used for glaucoma, lowers blood pressure but has a weaker effect.

Patient Reactions to Treatments

  • Blood Transfusion Reactions: Be Vigilant. Watch for reactions within the first 15 minutes.
  • Signs of Reaction: Fever, rash, changes in blood pressure, heart rate, and the general appearance of the patient
  • Interventions: Provide oxygen, stop the transfusion, and notify the physician.

Vital Signs

  • Tachycardia: Rapid heart rate.
  • Avid: Any unusual respiratory sound.
  • Hypotension: Low blood pressure.

Nursing Interventions

  • Steroids and Spinal Cord Injury: Reduce inflammation to decrease damage.
  • Patient Education: Explain how patient behaviours influence various procedures and medications
  • Emergency Preparedness: Know what questions to consider for patients facing serious health concerns and how to respond to the patient's needs.
  • Diagnostic Tests: Follow up with proper medical care and proper tests to diagnose and treat the patient.
  • Proper Handling: Handle patients with the appropriate care and follow hospital procedures for transporting and treating them.

General Medical Concerns

  • Heart Attacks: Identify potential symptoms (e.g., ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI)).
  • Blood Pressure: Measure blood pressure regularly.
  • Diabetes Management: Treat blood sugar levels.
  • HIV Care: Teach patients about infections and precautions to prevent disease spread.
  • Trauma: Deal with the needs of patients and provide care based on the need of the patient's medical condition.
  • Shock: Recognize different types of shock, and treatment and intervention methods

Lab Values

  • Electrolytes: Monitor electrolyte levels.
  • Hemoglobin and Hematocrit: Important lab values for various conditions, including anemia and blood disorders
  • White Blood Cell Count: A low white blood cell count (under 2000) may be a concern for infections.
  • Signs of infection: Monitor for fever, rash and other significant changes, and consider infections in patients with low white cells. This should be followed to the appropriate medical personnel.

Neurological Conditions

  • Cranial Tension: Note signs and symptoms related to elevated intracranial pressure.
  • Brain Health: Assess signs of improving brain health.

Medical Procedures

  • Cardiac Catheterization: Monitor for complications like femoral bleeding.
  • Blood Transfusion: Perform proper patient identification, cross-matching, and monitoring.

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Description

This quiz covers essential topics in patient care, including fall precautions and safety measures. It also delves into the nervous system, discussing synapses, neurotransmission, and age-related changes affecting cognitive functions. Test your knowledge on neuromuscular conditions and their implications.

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