Dear Nurses

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

ASSESSMENT FROM HEAD TO TOE ( PART 2)


Dear nurses,

Updated 3/24
Dear nurses,
Assessment from head to toe ( part 2) is no longer available.
Please click on the links below for more updated information:

ADDRESSING RENAL AND LIVER FAILURE

Updated 6/26

Dear nurses,
Dearnurses.net is no longer available.
New information and links have been added below.



When the kidneys are no longer able to perform their normal
functions, renal failure occurs. This may be acute or chronic.
Hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis are both used to treat
this problem. Kidney transplantation is sometimes necessary.

Failure of the kidneys to do their normal function is very
distressing to the patient. Patients may become confused 
because of the retained waste products. 
Learn more: Renal failure simplified

Hepatic encephalopathy


When the liver becomes damaged, ammonia and
other toxins cannot be removed.This may cause
toxins to cross the blood-brain barrier and cause
symptoms such as lethargy and mental confusion.

Paracentesis

The liver becomes enlarged in liver failure.
The abdomen also becomes enlarged.Patients
also have difficulty breathing. Paracentesis
is performed to remove excess fluid and make
breathing easier.


Learn more about: Diabetic complications
for the layperson



Learn more : The Nursing Process

Tuesday, September 06, 2011

PEDIATRIC ASSESSMENT






Updated 6/25

PEDIATRIC ASSESSMENT TRIANGLE

An initial assessment that is easy. It is based on
- Appearance
- Breathing
- Circulation



Addressing Greenstick fractures
Scenario: Sara was enjoying swinging, when she 
suddenly fell to the ground and hurt her right arm.
She was transported to the Emergency Room for 
assessment of a fracture.

Greenstick fractures are common in children.The 
bones of children are not fully developed like those
of adults. The bones are softer and tend to bend not 
break. Symptoms of possible fracture : pain, swelling,
twisting of the limb.



Learn more about : Hormones





PEDIATRIC ASSESSMENT TRIANGLE

Updated 8 /25

Dear nurses,
Dearnurses.net is no longer available.

The Pediatric Assessment Triangle is an easy 
assessment that is based on :
A-appearance
B-breathing

Simple facts

The Pediatric patient's heart rate is based on age
and clinical condition.It is important to check
respiratory rate and effort, as well as breath sounds.

Note any stridor, nasal flaring, retractions and wheezing.

Learn more about : Preterm labor