Study 08 Adult Medical-Surgical Nursing with 12 free online flashcards. Review key terms, definitions, and concepts with this interactive flashcard deck.
What is the priority response to a sudden change in a patient's condition?
Assess the change, identify immediate threats, stay with an unstable patient, summon help, follow emergency protocols, and reassess after authorized interventions.
What should a nurse do when acute coronary syndrome is suspected?
Activate the emergency response immediately for suspected ACS. Do not wait to see whether symptoms resolve.
What should patients know about inhaled corticosteroids for asthma?
Inhaled corticosteroids are controller medicines, not immediate rescue medicines. After using them, rinse the mouth and spit to reduce the risk of oral thrush.
How might pneumonia present in an older adult?
New confusion or functional decline can be prominent signs of pneumonia in older adults. Monitor respiratory status, oxygenation, hydration, and response to treatment.
Which findings should be trended in a patient with heart failure?
Trend daily weights under consistent conditions, along with edema, lung sounds, oxygenation, intake and output, and activity tolerance. Report sudden worsening, especially dyspnea at rest.
Why should hypertension care not rely on how a patient feels?
Hypertension often has no symptoms. Reinforce medication adherence and follow-up; never advise stopping antihypertensive medication without consultation.
How is low blood glucose commonly treated when the patient can swallow safely?
If the patient is alert and can swallow safely, a common protocol is 15–20 g of fast-acting carbohydrate, then recheck glucose in 15 minutes and repeat treatment if it remains low.
What should be done if a hypoglycemic patient cannot swallow safely?
Give nothing by mouth. Summon urgent help and follow protocol for glucagon or IV dextrose.
Which symptoms may signal a hyperglycemic emergency?
High glucose with dehydration, vomiting, abdominal pain, fruity breath, deep or difficult breathing, or altered consciousness may indicate a hyperglycemic emergency. Escalate urgently.
What should be monitored in acute kidney injury?
Monitor urine output, weight, edema, blood pressure, fluid balance, and ordered renal-function and electrolyte results. Report a sudden reduction in urine promptly.
What access-site concerns should be reported for a patient receiving dialysis?
Follow access-care instructions and report bleeding, redness, warmth, pain, or signs of infection. Protect the access arm as directed by policy.
Which findings may signal a peptic ulcer complication?
Black, tarry stools; blood or coffee-ground material in vomit; sudden severe abdominal pain; dizziness; or fainting may indicate bleeding or another complication and require immediate reporting.