Ischemic Stroke: The First 24 Hours
The Nurse Practitioner: The American Journal of Primary Health Care, October 2012Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death and one of the leading conditions that cause major functional disability in the United States. Read this article to brush up on risk factors, clinical manifestations, diagnosis and management, including eligibility criteria for t-PA.
Recognizing Substance Abuse Disorders
Nursing2012 Critical Care, September 2012This article focuses on how to respond if you discover that a coworker has an active substance use disorder, whether newly identified or a relapse.
Early Enteral Nutrition in Critically Ill Patients
Dimensions of Critical Care Nursing, October 2012Current evidence suggests that, in the presence of a functioning gut, initiating early enteral nutrition therapy results in enhanced tissue repair, preservation of immune competence, and conservation of the integrity of gut flora.
Partnering With Family Members to Improve the Intensive Care Unit Experience
Critical Care Nursing Quarterly, September 2012The core components of patient- and family-centered care include information sharing, a welcoming environment, respect for individual values and needs, comfort and support, and providing a helpful framework for developing a productive partnership with family members.
Diagnosing Increased Intracranial Pressure
Journal of Trauma Nursing, September 2012This article provides an algorithm that can be used as a clinical guideline when assessing a patient who has an ICP monitor in place and is presenting with increased ICP. The algorithm is inclusive and composed of a history of present illness, review of systems, physical assessment, labs, and further testing.