Focus On Central Venous Pressure Monitoring In an Acute Care Setting
Nursing2011, December 2011The evidence-based Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines have been instrumental in the reemergence of central venous pressure (CVP) monitoring as an effective tool in the care of patients with sepsis. This article reviews CVP monitoring, including indications, limitations, contraindications, recommended practices, complications, and nursing considerations.
Health Literacy and Self-care of Patients with Heart Failure
Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing, November/December 2011 Nearly 90 million Americans lack the necessary health literacy skills to adequately care for themselves in the face of a complex healthcare system and self-care regimens. The purpose of this pilot study was to examine the relationship between health literacy and self-care of patients with heart failure.
Distinguishing a Heart Attack from the Broken Heart Syndrome (Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy)
Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing, November/December 2011Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is a neurocardiological disorder which may mimic an acute myocardial infarction and may cause reversible heart failure, usually in postmenopausal women. Read to learn more about this disorder and its clinical features.
ECG Challenges: Monitor Alarms and Alarm Fatigue
AACN Advanced Critical Care, October/December 2011Alarm fatigue and misuse can lead to unintended consequences for patients and users. This column will review the use of clinical alarms and examine issues related to their effectiveness and safety.
Amiodarone Use to Prevent Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation after Cardiac Surgery
Dimensions of Critical Care Nursing, January/February 2012Examine the incidence of, risk factors related to, and complications caused by postoperative atrial fibrillation. Also, review the pathophysiology and treatment of atrial fibrillation and postoperative atrial fibrillation.