Physiological Changes During Pregnancy
48 Questions
0 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What happens to the tidal volume during pregnancy?

  • It fluctuates significantly.
  • It remains unchanged.
  • It decreases.
  • It increases. (correct)
  • How does progesterone affect the respiratory system during pregnancy?

  • Increases threshold to carbon dioxide.
  • Causes bronchi to constrict.
  • Decreases oxygen uptake.
  • Causes bronchi to dilate. (correct)
  • What is the average weight gain during pregnancy?

  • 15 lb (6.8 kg)
  • 27 lb (12.3 kg) (correct)
  • 20 lb (9.1 kg)
  • 30 lb (13.6 kg)
  • Which of the following changes occurs in the uterus at the end of pregnancy?

    <p>Weight increases to about 2.24 to 2.6 lb. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What physiological change occurs in the maternal circulation during pregnancy?

    <p>Blood volume increases by up to 50%. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect does relaxin have on the body during pregnancy?

    <p>Softens collagenous tissues. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following reflects an increase in physiological demand during pregnancy?

    <p>Increased demand for carbohydrates. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a physiological change that occurs during pregnancy?

    <p>Increase in expiratory reserve volume. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary sign of abruptio placenta that a patient would report?

    <p>Sudden onset of severe abdominal pain (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which condition is painless vaginal bleeding with bright red blood a primary symptom?

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

    Which management step is critical during the prehospital care of a patient with an ectopic pregnancy?

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

    What symptom would indicate a possible hypovolemic shock in a patient with bleeding related to pregnancy?

    <p>Rapid breath and confusion (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which physical examination finding is associated with abruptio placenta?

    <p>Tender abdomen and rigid uterus (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an important intervention for managing third-trimester bleeding?

    <p>Administer IV fluid rapidly (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is the greatest danger associated with third-trimester bleeding?

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

    What immediate action should be taken when treating a patient suspected of having a septic abortion?

    <p>Establish an IV line of normal saline (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a critical factor in assessing a child's condition during the primary survey?

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

    Why do children typically rely on pulse rate in emergencies?

    <p>To compensate for decreased oxygenation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be assessed to determine if a patient has adequate breathing?

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

    During a primary survey, what is the purpose of checking skin color, temperature, and condition?

    <p>To evaluate circulatory status (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the rapid detection and transport of a child in critical condition entail?

    <p>Immediate medical intervention (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the AVPU scale assess during the disability portion of the primary survey?

    <p>Level of consciousness (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of breathing is reflected by the work of breathing observed in a child?

    <p>Compensation for abnormalities in oxygenation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended action if there is potential airway obstruction during the primary assessment?

    <p>Position the airway and suction as necessary (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done initially when transporting a pregnant woman with no suspected spinal injury?

    <p>Transport her on her left side (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which intervention is essential for ensuring the airway of a pregnant trauma patient?

    <p>Provide additional ventilation assistance (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a crucial step in the management of maternal cardiac arrest?

    <p>Provide CPR and ALS as for any trauma patient (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What minimum items are required for newborn care at birth?

    <p>Warm blankets, suction device, clamps or ties, and scissors (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if a newborn remains cyanotic after birth?

    <p>Ensure the newborn is vigorous and observe them (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What method should be used to assess a newborn's condition at birth?

    <p>The Apgar score (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if a newborn's pulse rate is less than 100 beats per minute?

    <p>Initiate positive pressure ventilation (PPV) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During the newborn's transition phase, which action is NOT appropriate?

    <p>Keep the newborn at a temperature lower than body temperature (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key sign indicating a possible pneumothorax?

    <p>Jugular vein distention (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the appropriate first step when assessing a trauma patient?

    <p>Perform a thorough scene size-up (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In trauma cases, what should be the primary consideration if the patient is at risk for shock?

    <p>Prioritize stabilization of ABCs (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What complication is associated with traumatic injuries and may require immediate intervention?

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

    What is the purpose of placing a cervical collar on a trauma patient?

    <p>To stabilize the cervical spine (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the AVPU mnemonic assist in assessing during trauma management?

    <p>Level of consciousness (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does aging primarily affect the respiratory system?

    <p>Decrease in vital capacity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor can accelerate the aging process of organs and tissues?

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

    What type of hematoma is associated with hemorrhage between the dura and the skull?

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

    Which of the following statements about traumatic brain injury in children is accurate?

    <p>Children at low risk can still have significant intracranial injuries. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does BRUE stand for in pediatric care?

    <p>Brief Resolved Unexplained Event (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the mechanism of injury (MOI) most commonly associated with pediatric traumas?

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

    In pediatric injuries, falls from a standing position typically result in which type of injury?

    <p>Isolated long bone injuries (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When suspecting child abuse related to head trauma, what is a recommended step?

    <p>Assume abuse until proven otherwise. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potentially serious sign in an infant experiencing a BRUE?

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

    Motor vehicle accidents in children can lead to injuries that are influenced by which factor?

    <p>Seat position and posture (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Maternal oxygen demand

    Increases during pregnancy to meet the growing needs of the developing fetus.

    Progesterone's effect on bronchi

    Causes bronchi to dilate (widen), aiding easier breathing during pregnancy.

    Pregnancy-related respiratory changes

    Involve decreased expiratory reserve volume, functional residual capacity, and residual volume, but increased tidal volume and inspiratory reserve volume.

    Average pregnancy weight gain

    Approximately 27 pounds (12.3 kilograms).

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Circulatory changes during pregnancy

    Blood volume increases by up to 50% to support fetal needs and maternal organs.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Uterine size changes during pregnancy

    The uterus grows significantly, from a small size to being able to hold a large amount of fluid (5000 mL) by the end of pregnancy.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Relaxin's role

    Softens collagenous tissues and relaxes ligaments, which facilitates birth.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Increased blood cells during pregnancy

    The number of red blood cells increases to meet the growing oxygen demands of pregnancy.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Septic abortion

    A serious pregnancy complication where infection occurs after an abortion.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Third-trimester bleeding

    High risk of hemorrhage in late pregnancy.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Ectopic pregnancy

    Fertilized egg implants outside the uterus.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Abruptio placenta

    Premature separation of placenta from uterine wall.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Placenta previa

    Placenta covers cervix, low in uterus.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Physical examination of bleeding

    Assess for fever, abdominal tenderness, signs of shock and absent fetal heart sounds.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Prehospital bleeding management

    Establish IV, oxygen, ECG monitoring and rapid transport for bleeding.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Bleeding related to pregnancy cases

    Assess the nature of bleeding, vital signs changes and use OPQRST pain scale to determine the severity.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What happens to oxygen levels in congenital heart disease?

    Congenital heart disease leads to decreased oxygen levels in the blood due to abnormal heart structures.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Right ventricle's role in congenital heart disease

    The right ventricle in congenital heart disease experiences an increased workload due to the abnormal heart structure.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Why is rapid detection crucial with congenital heart disease?

    Early identification and prompt transport are vital for infants with congenital heart disease to ensure timely medical intervention.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What's the significance of communication with medical control?

    Maintaining communication with medical control is essential for coordinating care and receiving appropriate guidance for infants with congenital heart disease.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Tidal volume in children

    Children have a smaller tidal volume compared to adults, meaning they breathe less air with each breath.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Metabolic oxygen demand in children

    Children have a higher metabolic oxygen demand, which means they need more oxygen to fuel their growing bodies.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Functional residual capacity in children

    Children have a smaller functional residual capacity, which means they have less air remaining in their lungs after exhaling.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Pulse rate's role in children

    Children rely heavily on their pulse rate to compensate for decreased oxygen levels and maintain adequate blood flow.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Pregnant Trauma: Positioning

    Transport a pregnant woman on her left side if no spinal injury is suspected. This helps ensure proper blood flow to the fetus and the mother's vital organs.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Pregnant Trauma: Airway Management

    Ensure an adequate airway, administer oxygen, assist ventilations if needed, and provide a higher-than-usual minute volume. This helps optimize oxygen delivery to both mother and fetus.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Pregnant Trauma: Fluid Management

    Start one or two IV lines of normal saline to maintain blood volume and support both maternal and fetal circulatory systems.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Maternal Cardiac Arrest: CPR

    Provide CPR and ALS as you would for any other trauma patient. CPR and ventilator support can keep the fetus viable, even if the mother is already dead.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Newborn Arrival: Essential Supplies

    Prepare a warm environment with essential supplies: warm, dry blankets, a bulb syringe, two small clamps, a pair of clean scissors.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Newborn Arrival: Initial Steps

    After delivery, ensure ABCs: airway, breathing, and circulation. Place the newborn on the mother’s chest, suction the mouth then nose, and keep at the level of the mother.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Newborn Arrival: Umbilical Cord

    Clamp and cut the umbilical cord, then perform a primary survey. Examine the skin, head, and eyes for irregularities, and inspect the umbilical cord for abnormalities.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Newborn Arrival: Hypothermia Prevention

    Newborns are at risk for hypothermia. Placing them on prewarmed towels or a radiant warmer, drying thoroughly, and covering the head with a cap can help maintain body temperature.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Pediatric Cardiac Arrest Algorithm

    A flowchart used to guide medical professionals in managing pediatric cardiac arrest, outlining steps for assessment, intervention, and medication administration.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

    Any injury to the brain caused by a forceful impact, such as a fall or a car accident.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Epidural Hematoma

    A type of TBI where blood collects between the skull and the dura mater (outermost membrane surrounding the brain).

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Subdural Hematoma

    A type of TBI where blood collects between the dura mater and the arachnoid mater (middle membrane surrounding the brain).

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Brief Resolved Unexplained Event (BRUE)

    A brief episode in an infant that involves color changes, choking, apnea (stopping breathing), or loss of muscle tone, with no clear explanation.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Pediatric Trauma Emergencies

    Medical emergencies involving children who have experienced an injury, often requiring specialized care.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Pathophysiology of Traumatic Injuries

    The study of how injuries occur in children, taking into account their unique anatomy and physiology.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Blunt Trauma

    A type of injury caused by a forceful impact without a sharp object penetrating the body, common in pediatric cases.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Suspect spinal fractures

    Consider the possibility of spinal fractures in patients with chest or abdominal bruising, particularly if it follows a seat belt pattern.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Pneumothorax with chest trauma

    A pneumothorax, or collapsed lung, can occur due to penetrating injuries to the chest or upper abdomen.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Signs of Pneumothorax

    Symptoms of a pneumothorax include rapid heart rate, distended neck veins, and a paradoxical pulse.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Trauma patient and Shock

    Any trauma patient should be treated as potentially at risk for shock.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Load-and-go Trauma

    Traumatic injuries that require immediate transport due to severity and instability.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Spinal Stabilization

    All trauma victims with suspected spinal injuries require spinal stabilization.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Geriatric Aging Process

    The aging process typically begins in the late 20s or early 30s, but can be accelerated by genetic predisposition, preexisting conditions, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Changes in Respiration with Age

    As we age, respiratory capacity decreases. Vital capacity reduces, residual volume increases, and oxygen levels in the blood decline.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Study Notes

    Special Populations Review

    • This review covers special populations, focusing on obstetrics, newborns, and geriatrics.

    Obstetrics

    • Physiological changes during pregnancy can alter the normal response to trauma and/or exacerbate or create medical conditions.
    • The uterus weighs approximately 2.5 oz (70 grams) before pregnancy, and has a fluid capacity of 10 mL.
    • At the end of pregnancy, the uterus can weigh up to 2.24 to 2.6 lbs (1100 to 1200 grams), with a capacity of about 5,000 mL.
    • Fundal measurements may indicate developmental problems, including uterine growth issues, breech presentation, or multiples.
    • Changes in the GI tract: pressure on the intestine and rectum with smooth muscle relaxation in the GI tract, slowing of stomach emptying, kidney and ureter enlargement.
    • Hormonal changes affecting skin, hair, and eyes.
    • Circulatory changes: blood volume increase up to 50% more to meet fetal metabolic needs, perfuse maternal organs, and compensate for delivery blood loss.
    • Circulatory changes (cont'd): red blood cell count increase, clotting factor increase while fibrinolytic factors decrease, heart size increase.
    • Heart rate increase, Ectopic beats, Supraventricular tachycardia, Slight left axis deviation, Lead II changes.
    • Sensitivity to body position increases with gestation. Lying supine can compress the inferior vena cava, reducing cardiac output.
    • The birthing position can stress the cardiovascular system. The lithotomy position is common in the United States.

    Respiratory changes

    • The diaphragm is pushed up by the growing uterus, increasing maternal oxygen demand.
    • Progesterone decreases the threshold for carbon dioxide and increases bronchi dilation, regulating mucus production.
    • Expiratory reserve volume, functional residual capacity, and residual volume decrease.
    • Tidal volume and inspiratory reserve volume increase.

    Maternal Metabolism

    • Weight gain averages 27 lbs (12.3 kg).
    • Increased blood volume, with intracellular and extracellular fluid increases.
    • Uterine, placental, and fetal growth.
    • Increased breast tissue and protein and fat deposits.
    • Relaxin softens collagenous tissues and relaxes ligamentous system, increasing carbohydrate demand.

    Supine Hypotensive Syndrome

    • The uterus can compress the inferior vena cava.
    • This can diminish or occlude venous blood return to the heart.
    • Resulting in significant hypotension and fetal distress.
    • Management involves placing the patient in the left lateral recumbent position, treating underlying causes, monitoring vital signs, and obtaining an ECG.

    Cardiac Conditions

    • Determining the nature and treatment of any heart condition is crucial.
    • Assess for cardiac medications, dysrhythmias, heart murmurs, rheumatic fever history, or congenital heart defects.
    • Monitor for dizziness or lightheadedness.

    Hypertensive Disorders

    • Chronic hypertension: blood pressure equal to or greater than 140/90 mmHg, increased risk of stroke or other cardiovascular problems.
    • Gestational hypertension: develops after the 20th week of pregnancy and resolves spontaneously.
    • Preeclampsia: manifests after the 20th week with a triad of symptoms including edema, gradual onset of hypertension, and protein in the urine.
    • Risk factors for preeclampsia include first pregnancy before 20 years old, advanced maternal age, history of multiple pregnancies, hypertension, renal disease, and diabetes.
    • Possible complications include liver or renal failure, cerebral hemorrhage, abruptio placenta, and HELLP syndrome.
    • Requires emergency hypertensive medications as needed.

    Seizures

    • Treatment is difficult due to potential fetal distress from medications.
    • Magnesium sulfate is the recommended treatment.
    • Potential complications include abruptio placenta, hemorrhage, and disseminated intravascular coagulation.

    Diabetes

    • Gestational diabetes mellitus is the inability to process carbohydrates during pregnancy.
    • Treatments for gestational diabetes include diet control and oral hypoglycemic medications.
    • Diabetes may be affected by pregnancy.
    • Patients with a history of diabetes should have a blood glucose level test.

    Respiratory Disorders

    • Shortness of breath or dyspnea is a common complaint in pregnancy, often due to hormone-related changes.
    • Asthma can complicate pregnancy.
    • Maternal asthma complications include premature labor, preeclampsia, respiratory failure, vaginal hemorrhage, and eclampsia.
    • Fetal asthma complications include premature birth, low birth rate, growth retardation, and fetal death.
    • Abortion: expulsion of the fetus before the 20th week of gestation, classified as spontaneous (miscarriage) or elective.
    • Habitual abortions: three or more consecutive miscarriages due to ovarian issues, uterine malformations, cervical conditions, or infections.
    • Threatened abortion: vaginal bleeding in the first half of pregnancy, which may progress or subside.
    • Imminent abortion: spontaneous abortion that cannot be prevented, characterized by severe abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, and cervical dilation.
    • Treatment involves IV normal saline, 100% supplemental oxygen, and ECG monitoring; provide emotional support and rapid transport.
    • Incomplete abortion: products of conception remain in the uterus, with continuous vaginal bleeding and potential shock signs.
    • Missed abortion: fetus dies in the first 20 weeks, and the uterus feels like a hard mass with no detectable fetal heartbeat.
    • Septic abortion: uterine infection following an abortion, with fever and bad-smelling vaginal discharge; requires rapid transport, IV normal saline, supplemental oxygen, and ECG monitoring.
    • Third-trimester bleeding has a high danger of hemorrhage due to the large volume of blood present, requiring compensatory mechanisms.
    • Ectopic pregnancy: the ovum implants outside the uterus; characterized by severe lower abdominal pain and potential hypovolemic shock.
    • Abruptio placenta: premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall; characterized by sudden abdominal pain, cessation of fetal movement, and vaginal bleeding with dark-red blood.
    • Physical examination may reveal signs of shock, tender and rigid uterus, and absent fetal heart sounds.
    • Placenta previa: low implantation of the placenta, obscuring the cervical canal; characterized by painless vaginal bleeding with bright red blood and a soft, nontender uterus.

    Assessment of Bleeding

    • Determine the nature of the bleeding.
    • Use OPQRST to elaborate on the chief complaint.
    • Evaluate orthostatic vital signs; look for the Grey Turner or Cullen sign.

    Management of Bleeding

    • Keep the woman lying on her left side.
    • Administer 100% supplemental oxygen.
    • Provide rapid transport.
    • Start an IV line of normal saline
    • Loosely place trauma pads over the vagina.

    Cephalic Presentation

    • Newborn's head is overly extended at birth, leading to face presentation.
    • Possible presentations include brow presentation, occiput-posterior presentation, or military presentation.
    • If external rotation is unsuccessful or delivery cannot be completed, offer support for the woman and fetus and rapid transport.

    Breech Presentations

    • A different part of the body other than the head leads the delivery.
    • Categories of breech presentation include frank, incomplete, and complete.
    • For imminent breech delivery: position the woman with buttocks at the edge of the bed, legs flexed, and let the buttocks and trunk deliver spontaneously, support the body, and slightly lower the newborn.
    • To deliver: Once the hairline is spotted, grasp the newborn's ankles and lift upward.
    • If the head doesn't deliver within 3 minutes, the newborn might suffocate.
    • Avoid forcibly pulling the newborn.
    • Other rare presentations include footling breech and transverse presentation.
    • In abnormal deliveries, don't attempt delivery in the field.

    Shoulder Dystocia

    • Difficulty delivering the shoulders.
    • Fetus cannot breathe if shoulders do not clear birth canal.
    • Brachial nerve plexus damage is a concern.
    • McRoberts maneuver (hyperflexing the woman's legs tightly to the abdomen) might assist with delivery.
    • Gentle pressure on lower abdomen and gentle pull on fetus's head could be needed.

    Nuchal Cord

    • Umbilical cord wrapping around newborn's neck during delivery.
    • Attempt to slip the cord over the shoulder and head.
    • Cut the cord if unsuccessful.

    Prolapsed Umbilical Cord

    • Cord emerges before the fetus, cutting off oxygenated blood from the placenta
    • Leading to fetal asphyxia.
    • Treatment includes keeping the woman supine and elevated, administering 100% oxygen, having the woman pant with each contraction, and gently pushing the presenting part back up the vagina

    Postpartum Hemorrhage

    • Hemorrhage occurring within 24 hours from or 24-6 weeks after delivery
    • A blood loss exceeding 500 mL during the first 24 hours after birth
    • Causes include lacerations, prolonged labor, or multiple births, retained products of conception, multiple pregnancy, placenta previa, or a full bladder.
    • Management continues with uterine massage, encouragement to breastfeed, notifying the receiving facility, and immediate transport; give a large-bore IV line in route, and avoid packing dressings into the vagina.

    Trauma and Pregnancy

    • Trauma is the leading cause of maternal death in the US.
    • Abdominal trauma occurs via the same mechanisms in pregnant and nonpregnant women.
    • Anatomical changes during pregnancy cause abdominal contents to compress into the upper abdomen, the diaphragm elevates by about 1.5 inches, and the peritoneum stretches.
    • During the first trimester, the uterus is well protected from trauma.
    • During the second and third trimesters, the uterus extends into the abdomen and becomes more vulnerable to trauma.
    • Pregnant patients show different signs than nonpregnant patients.
    • Signs of hypovolemia may be hidden; the patient has a higher chance of bleeding to death in case of pelvic fractures.
    • Slow respiratory rate is not adequate.
    • Fetal injury from trauma may occur from rapid deceleration and impaired fetal circulation.
    • Fetal heart rate (120–160 beats/min) is the best indication after trauma; <120 beats/min indicates dire fetal distress.
    • Treatment of the pregnant trauma patient involves limited direct treatment, with transport on the left side to avoid spinal injury.

    Neonate

    • Obtaining patient history and preparing the environment are essential minimum needs.
    • Essential items include warm, dry blankets, a bulb syringe, two small clamps or ties, and a pair of clean scissors.
    • In ambulance deliveries: use blankets, confirm ABCs, position the newborn on the mother's chest, suction the mouth, then the nose, and keep the newborn level with her.
    • Procedures include clamping and cutting the umbilical cord, performing a simultaneous primary survey and treatment intervention, examining skin, head, and eyes for irregularities, and inspecting the umbilical cord for abnormalities.
    • Newborns are at risk for hypothermia.
    • Placement on pre-warmed towels (or a radiant warmer) with thorough drying and a cap for the head is needed.
    • Observation includes checking that babies that were cyanotic after birth, remain vigorous and that they turn pink within 5 minutes; give ongoing observation and maintain thermoregulation with direct skin-to-skin contact with their mother.
    • The Apgar Score helps record the condition at birth, and a score less than 7 requires repetition of the assessment every 5 minutes up to 20 minutes after birth.
    • The neonatal resuscitation algorithm follows current guidelines; initial steps, reevaluation, and ventilation occur within the first 60 seconds, and additional oxygen might be needed if the target preductal oxygen saturation level isn't reached.
    • If the newborn's pulse rate is apneic or less than 100 beats/minute, PPV should be initiated; begin chest compressions if the pulse rate is less than 60 beats/minute.
    • If ventilation and chest compression efforts do not improve bradycardia, epinephrine should be administered, preferably via IV line.

    Geriatrics

    • The aging process begins in the late 20s or early 30s.
    • Genetics, preexisting conditions, diet and activity levels, exposure to toxins, are factors that accelerate organ/tissue aging.
    • Decrease in functional capacity is a normal aspect of aging.
    • Respiratory system changes include decreased respiratory capacity (vital capacity decreases, residual volume increases), decreased sensitivity to changes in blood gases, restricted lung/chest expansion, impaired ability to modify respiratory rate, and a decreased effectiveness of defense mechanisms.
    • The cardiovascular system changes include lower efficiency with age and heart hypertrophy, which contributes to conditions such as arteriosclerosis (diabetic and renal compromise, atherosclerosis), increased vascular stiffening (aortic valve thickening due to fibrosis and calcification); and reduced peripheral vessel elasticity.
    • The electrical conduction system of the heart changes that influence pacemaker cell decrease and potential development of bradycardia or atrial dysrhythmias.
    • Aging makes the cardiovascular system more vulnerable to dysfunction and potential cardiac problems.
    • The neurologic system shows changes in neurologic exam that reflect aging; the brain decreases weight and volume. Regulation of respiration, pulse rate, blood pressure, temperature, and hunger/thirst are potentially affected.
    • Sensory organs decline with age, with possibility of hearing and vision deficits (deafness, blindness) and potential for onset of cataracts, glaucoma and Meniere's disease (vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, ear pressure).
    • Changes in appetite, touch, and smell function are also present. Difficulties in speech production, and body position sense are also possible.
    • Digestive changes include: reduction in gastric secretions, possible implications for heartburn, indigestion, acid reflux, slight changes in bowel functions, including incontinence and constipation.
    • Hepatic enzyme changes involve some reduced activity and increased activity, also impacting detoxification of medications.
    • With renal changes, kidneys lose weight and functioning nephron units; their response to sodium deficiency is reduced, causing electrolyte imbalances.
    • Increased risk for overhydration with high sodium intake and higher risk for serious/lethal hyperkalemia.
    • Endocrine system changes include increased ADH/fluid imbalance, or edema.
    • Impairment of the immune system occurs, increasing risk of infection and secondary complications.
    • The Integumentary system shows wrinkling and decreased skin resiliency, thinner, and fragile skin, less subcutaneous fat, increased bruising, decreasing elastin and collagen, increased skin tenting, lower sebaceous gland oil production, diminished sweat production, thin/brittle fingernails, and possibly gray or white hair.
    • Blood vessels impacted by atherosclerosis, decreased oxygen, slower skin regeneration, and potentially thinner/brittle nails and toenails.
    • Homeostatic capabilities (thirst, temperature, and blood glucose regulation) decline with age.
    • Changes in the musculoskeletal system (decrease bone density, brittle bones, tendon/ligament elasticity loss, thicker synovial fluids, and decreased cartilage levels) influence height, posture, and strength.
    • Also affects susceptibility to fractures, difficulties in handling fine motor skills, or with finger strength. Pre-existing issues affect risk of fall, motor vehicle crashes, and other situations related to loss of balance or confidence.

    The GEMS Diamond

    • GEMS diamond (Geriatric, Environmental, Medical, Social) for forming a general impression.

    Primary Assessment

    • Airway and breathing: Geriatric patients have potential airway complications. Ensure airway isn't obstructed and check for breathing.
    • Circulation: circulatory compromise when assessing older adults; lower heart rates, reduced pulse strength, irregular rhythms, requiring immediate oxygen.
    • Transport decision: prioritize life-threatening situations. Older individuals may experience rapid decompensation.

    Studying That Suits You

    Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

    Quiz Team

    Related Documents

    Special Populations Review PDF

    Description

    This quiz covers essential physiological changes that occur during pregnancy, including respiratory adaptations, circulatory changes, and hormonal influences. Test your knowledge on the impact of these changes on maternal health and fetal development. It also addresses critical conditions like ectopic pregnancy and abruptio placenta.

    More Like This

    Pregnancy Physiology Quiz
    192 questions
    Physiology of Pregnancy
    85 questions
    Use Quizgecko on...
    Browser
    Browser