Nursing Interventions for Resp and ABGs

[Pianoforte]

I have my third critical care exam (of six) tomorrow on respiratory management and assessment, acute respiratory failure, ARDS, and ABGs. I have been studying (alone and with a classmate). Can you seasoned nurses share any information that you think is critical for a nursing student about to take an exam on these topics? Thanks!

[Demonsthenes]

I suggest that you become ACLS certified. ACLS stands for Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support. With regard to preparing for the ACLS class, a good book is the Handbook of Emergency Cardiovascular Care for Health Care providers. The book is sponsored by the American Heart Association. It should cost below $18.00. By becoming ACLS certified you not only acquire new valuable skills that will make you more marketable in the nursing employment market, you obtain CEU's that might fulfill your Board of Nursing continuing education requirements. This book would probably answer the particular question you are asking and related ones.

Best of luck!:roll

[Pianoforte]

Thank you for the information. If you, as a nurse, had to take care of a patient with respiratory problems (which may or may not include ARF or ARDS), what would be the most important things you would look for in terms of s/s and interventions? Thx!

[JoanieRT2b]

Hello

I just started school in respiratory therpy. I was reading ya question which made me have a question for you. What is abg's? I no i will be getting into that soon

[augigi, CNS]

ABG = arterial blood gas.

Many signs and symptoms of respiratory problems (decreased oxygen saturations, Xray evidence, productive cough etc) are treated with positioning to aid drainage of secretions, incentive spirometry, coughing and deep breathing exercises - and, if you're in critical care and have ventilators, with ventilation changes and suctioning.

[Daytonite, BSN, RN]

Acute Respiratory Failure

When assessing, look for shortness of breath, anything BUT clear breath sounds, confusion, restlessness, rapid heart rate, cyanosis, arrhythmias, and changes in respirations. The patient needs oxygen. Keep him in high Fowler's position to help with his breathing. Encourage slow, deep breathing. Good chance of intubation if supplemental oxygen can't keep sats above 60%.

ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome)

When assessing, the patient will have many of the same symptoms as above. The lungs are usually loaded with fluid. All the same interventions will apply as well except that the patient will probably be given diuretics and be on restricted fluids.

ABGs - know normal parameters and what deviations from normal mean

[Pianoforte]

Thanks for the info! I managed to earn an 88% on today's exam. Now, only three more exams left...in 3 1/2 weeks!