Essential Procedures in Acute Care: A Comprehensive Guide for Nurses

By Temple Grandin

In the fast-paced and demanding environment of acute care, nurses play a crucial role in providing safe, effective, and compassionate care to patients. To excel in this challenging field, nurses need to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to perform a wide range of essential procedures. This comprehensive guide provides nurses with a detailed overview of the most common procedures performed in acute care settings, empowering them to deliver exceptional care with confidence.

Essential Procedures: Acute Care

by Temple Grandin

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	47711 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	313 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Chapter 1: Patient Assessment and Vital Signs

This chapter covers the fundamentals of patient assessment, including obtaining a comprehensive history, performing a physical examination, and monitoring vital signs. Nurses will learn how to assess and interpret signs and symptoms, identify potential complications, and prioritize interventions based on the patient's needs.

Chapter 2: Venipuncture and Blood Collection

Venipuncture is a critical skill for nurses, enabling them to collect blood samples for laboratory testing. This chapter provides step-by-step instructions on the proper technique for venipuncture, including how to select the appropriate vein, prepare the puncture site, and ensure the patient's comfort.

Chapter 3: Intravenous Therapy

Intravenous therapy is a common intervention in acute care settings, allowing nurses to administer medications, fluids, and nutrients directly into the patient's bloodstream. This chapter discusses the principles of intravenous therapy, including the selection of IV fluids, insertion of IV catheters, and monitoring for complications.

Chapter 4: Wound Care and Dressing Changes

Wound care is an essential aspect of nursing practice, promoting healing and preventing infection. This chapter covers various wound care techniques, including wound assessment, dressing selection, and the proper application and removal of dressings.

Chapter 5: Medication Administration

Nurses are responsible for the safe and accurate administration of medications. This chapter provides guidance on the different routes of medication administration, including oral, intravenous, and subcutaneous injections. Nurses will learn how to calculate medication dosages, prepare medications for administration, and monitor for adverse reactions.

Chapter 6: Patient Mobility and Positioning

Patient mobility and positioning are important for maintaining comfort, preventing pressure ulcers, and promoting recovery. This chapter discusses the principles of patient handling, including safe transfer techniques, bed positioning, and the use of assistive devices.

Chapter 7: Monitoring and Interpretation of Electrocardiogram (ECG)

ECG monitoring is a valuable tool for assessing cardiac rhythm and detecting potential arrhythmias. This chapter provides an overview of ECG principles, including the interpretation of basic ECG waveforms and the identification of common arrhythmias.

Chapter 8: Pain Management

Pain management is a key priority in acute care, aiming to provide relief and improve patient outcomes. This chapter discusses the principles of pain assessment, pharmacological and non-pharmacological pain management strategies, and the importance of cultural sensitivity in pain management.

Chapter 9: Fluid and Electrolyte Balance

Fluid and electrolyte balance is crucial for maintaining physiological stability. This chapter explores the principles of fluid and electrolyte management, including assessment of fluid status, calculation of fluid requirements, and the administration of IV fluids and electrolytes.

Chapter 10: Respiratory Care

Respiratory care interventions are often required in acute care settings to ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation. This chapter covers the principles of respiratory assessment, oxygen therapy, suctioning, and airway management techniques.

"Essential Procedures in Acute Care" is an indispensable resource for nurses working in acute care settings. Its comprehensive coverage of essential procedures, clear illustrations, and practical guidance empower nurses to perform procedures safely, effectively, and with confidence. By mastering the techniques and principles outlined in this guide, nurses can provide exceptional care to their patients and make a significant contribution to their recovery and well-being.

Essential Procedures: Acute Care

by Temple Grandin

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	47711 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	313 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE