MED - SURG FLAHCARDS

JDMA NURSING SCHOOL

 TABLE OF CONTENT
1. Med Surg
2. Respiratory System Disorders
3. Endocrine System Disorders
4. Cardiovascular System Disorders
5. Electrolyte Imbalances
6. Musculoskeletal Disorders
7. Hematology Disorders
8. Menal Health Disorders
9. Renal / Urinary Disorders 13
10. Neurological System Disorders
11. Critical Care TOPICS
12. Arterial Blood Gases (ABGs)
13. Gastrointestinal Diseases
MED-SURG
 MED-SURG
Medical-surgical nursing, often
abbreviated as "med-surg nursing,"
is a nursing specialty that focuses
on caring for adult patients who
have medical or surgical
conditions. This field of nursing is
one of the broadest and most
diverse, as it encompasses a wide
range of medical conditions and
surgical interventions.
Patient Population: Medical-surgical nurses care for
adult patients across the lifespan who have various
medical conditions, including chronic illnesses, acute
illnesses, and post-surgical recovery needs. These
patients may have diverse healthcare needs and come
from various demographics.

Care Setting: Medical-surgical nurses work in various

healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics,
ambulatory care centers, and long-term care facilities.
They may also provide care in emergency departments
and critical care units.
Scope of Practice: The scope of practice for medical-
surgical nurses includes assessing and monitoring
patients, administering medications, managing pain,
providing wound care, assisting with surgical
procedures, educating patients and families, and
advocating for patient needs.
Specialization: Within medical-surgical nursing, there
may be opportunities for specialization in areas such as
orthopedics, neurology, cardiology, gastroenterology,
and more. These nurses gain expertise in caring for
patients with specific medical conditions or surgical
needs.
Responsibilities:
Assessment: Nurses assess patients' health status,
including physical, psychological, and social
aspects, to develop individualized care plans.
Medication Management: They administer
medications, monitor for side effects, and educate
patients about their medications.
Wound Care: Medical-surgical nurses are often
responsible for wound care, including dressing
changes and monitoring for infection.
Monitoring: They continuously monitor patients'
vital signs, oxygen levels, and overall condition,
taking action when needed.
Patient Education: Nurses educate patients and their
families about their conditions, treatments, and self-
care after discharge.
Surgical Care: In surgical settings, they prepare
patients for surgery, assist during procedures, and
provide post-operative care.
Pain Management: They assess and manage patients'
pain, ensuring they are comfortable and have
appropriate pain relief.
Advocacy: Nurses advocate for their patients' needs,
ensuring they receive the best possible care and
have their concerns addressed.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Medical-surgical
nurses work closely with other healthcare
professionals, including physicians, physical
therapists, occupational therapists, social workers,
and pharmacists, to provide comprehensive care to
patients.

Challenges: Medical-surgical nursing can be

demanding, as nurses often care for patients with
complex health issues. They must be skilled in time
management, critical thinking, and communication
to ensure patient safety and well-being.
Continuous Learning: Because medical knowledge
and technologies continually evolve, medical-
surgical nurses must engage in ongoing education
and professional development to stay current in
their practice.
 RESPIRATORY SYSTEM
DISORDERS
The respiratory system is responsible for the exchange
of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the body. There are
numerous respiratory system disorders that can affect
the lungs, airways, and other components of this
system.
 Asthma

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition

characterized by inflammation of the airways,
which causes them to narrow and produce excess
mucus.
Symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath,
coughing, and chest tightness.
Triggers can include allergens, cold air, exercise,
and respiratory infections.
Management often involves bronchodilator
inhalers and anti-inflammatory medications.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

COPD is a progressive lung disease that includes

conditions such as chronic bronchitis and
emphysema.
It is mainly caused by long-term exposure to
irritants like cigarette smoke.
Symptoms include chronic cough, difficulty
breathing, increased mucus production, and
reduced lung function.
Treatment includes smoking cessation,
bronchodilators, and pulmonary rehabilitation.
 Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs, often caused

by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
Symptoms include fever, cough, chest pain, and
difficulty breathing.
Treatment depends on the cause and may involve
antibiotics, antiviral medications, or antifungal drugs.
 Cystic Fibrosis (CF)

CF is a genetic disorder that affects the respiratory

and digestive systems, leading to thick and sticky
mucus production.
It can cause recurrent lung infections, coughing,
and poor growth.
Treatment includes airway clearance techniques,
medications to thin mucus, and antibiotics for
infections.
 Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the uncontrolled growth of cells in

the lungs, primarily caused by smoking but also
linked to other factors like exposure to radon or
asbestos.
Symptoms may include persistent cough, chest
pain, and unexplained weight loss.
Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy,
radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.
 Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

OSA is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated

interruptions in breathing during sleep due to
airway blockage.
Symptoms often include loud snoring, daytime
fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.
Treatment includes lifestyle changes, continuous
positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, or
surgery.
 Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)

ILD refers to a group of disorders that cause

inflammation and scarring of the lung tissue,
affecting its ability to expand and contract.
Symptoms include shortness of breath, dry cough,
and reduced exercise tolerance.
Management may involve corticosteroids,
immunosuppressants, or lung transplantation.
 ENDOCRINE SYSTEM
DISORDERS
Diabetes Mellitus:
Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by
elevated blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia).
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the
body's immune system attacks and destroys insulin-
producing cells. It requires insulin therapy.
Type 2 diabetes is often related to lifestyle factors
and may be managed with lifestyle changes, oral
medications, and insulin if necessary.
 Hypothyroidism:

Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid

gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones.
Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, cold
intolerance, and depression.
Treatment involves thyroid hormone replacement
therapy.
 Hyperthyroidism:

Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid

gland produces excessive thyroid hormones.
Symptoms include weight loss, rapid heartbeat,
anxiety, and heat intolerance.
Treatment may include medications, radioactive
iodine therapy, or surgery.
 Cushing's Syndrome:

Cushing's syndrome results from excessive cortisol

production, often due to a tumor or prolonged use
of corticosteroids.
Symptoms include weight gain, round face ("moon
face"), and muscle weakness.
Treatment depends on the cause and may involve
surgery or medication.
 Addison's Disease:

Addison's disease is a rare disorder where the

adrenal glands don't produce enough cortisol and
aldosterone.
Symptoms include fatigue, weight loss, and low
blood pressure.
Treatment involves lifelong hormone replacement
therapy.
 Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS):

PCOS is a common hormonal disorder in women of

reproductive age.
Symptoms include irregular periods, ovarian cysts,
acne, and excess hair growth.
Treatment may include lifestyle changes, hormonal
contraceptives, or medications to manage
symptoms.
 Hyperparathyroidism:

Hyperparathyroidism is characterized by excessive

secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH), leading to
high blood calcium levels.
Symptoms include bone pain, kidney stones, and
muscle weakness.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and
may involve surgery to remove the overactive
parathyroid gland.
 Growth Hormone Deficiency:

Growth hormone deficiency occurs when the

pituitary gland doesn't produce enough growth
hormone.
Symptoms include short stature in children and
reduced muscle mass in adults.
Treatment involves growth hormone replacement
therapy in childhood and sometimes in adulthood.
 CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM
DISORDERS
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure):

Hypertension is a chronic condition characterized by

elevated blood pressure levels.
It is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it
may not have noticeable symptoms.
Long-term uncontrolled hypertension can lead to
heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.
Treatment includes lifestyle changes and medication.
 Coronary Artery Disease (CAD):

CAD is a condition where the blood vessels

supplying the heart (coronary arteries) become
narrowed or blocked by atherosclerosis.
Symptoms may include chest pain (angina),
shortness of breath, and fatigue.
Treatment options include lifestyle changes,
medications, angioplasty, or coronary artery bypass
surgery.
 Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction):

A heart attack occurs when there is a sudden

blockage of blood flow to a portion of the heart
muscle.
Symptoms include severe chest pain, shortness of
breath, nausea, and sweating.
Immediate medical attention is crucial, and
treatment may involve medications, angioplasty, or
surgery.
 Heart Failure:

Heart failure is a condition where the heart cannot

pump blood effectively to meet the body's needs.
Symptoms include fatigue, fluid retention, and
shortness of breath.
Treatment includes medications, lifestyle changes,
and in severe cases, heart transplantation.
 Arrhythmias:

Arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms, which

can be too fast (tachycardia) or too slow
(bradycardia).
Symptoms vary and may include palpitations,
dizziness, or fainting.
Treatment depends on the specific arrhythmia and
may include medications, pacemakers, or ablation
procedures.
 Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident, CVA):

A stroke occurs when there is a blockage or rupture

of blood vessels in the brain, leading to brain tissue
damage.
Symptoms include sudden numbness or weakness
in the face, arm, or leg, confusion, and trouble
speaking or understanding speech.
Treatment depends on the type of stroke and may
include medication or surgery.
 Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD):

PAD is a condition where narrowed arteries reduce

blood flow to the extremities, often the legs.
Symptoms include leg pain, numbness, and skin
changes.
Treatment involves lifestyle changes, medications,
and sometimes angioplasty or bypass surgery.
 Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT):

DVT is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein,

typically in the leg.
Symptoms may include leg pain, swelling, and
warmth.
Complications can include pulmonary embolism (a
clot traveling to the lungs).
Treatment includes blood thinning medications.
 ELECTROLYTE IMBALANCES
Hypernatremia:

Hypernatremia is a condition characterized by

elevated sodium levels in the blood.
It can result from excessive sodium intake,
dehydration, or kidney problems.
Symptoms may include extreme thirst, dry mucous
membranes, and confusion.
Treatment involves addressing the underlying
cause and rehydrating with fluids.
 Hyponatremia:

Hyponatremia is a condition where blood sodium

levels are too low.
It can be caused by excessive fluid intake, certain
medications, or underlying medical conditions.
Symptoms may include nausea, headache,
confusion, and muscle cramps.
Treatment depends on the cause and severity, often
involving fluid restriction or medications.
 Hyperkalemia:

Hyperkalemia is an elevated level of potassium

in the blood.
It can result from kidney dysfunction, certain
medications, or excessive dietary potassium
intake.
Symptoms may include muscle weakness,
irregular heart rhythms, and tingling
sensations.
Treatment aims to lower potassium levels and
may involve dietary changes and medications.
 Hypokalemia:

Hypokalemia is a condition characterized by low

blood potassium levels.
Causes can include diuretic use, excessive sweating,
or gastrointestinal disorders.
Symptoms may include muscle cramps, weakness,
and irregular heart rhythms.
Treatment involves potassium supplements and
addressing the underlying cause.
 Hypercalcemia:

Hypercalcemia is an excess of calcium

in the blood.
It can be caused by conditions like
hyperparathyroidism or certain
cancers.
Symptoms may include excessive
thirst, kidney stones, and confusion.
Treatment targets the underlying
cause and may include hydration and
medications.
 Hypocalcemia:

Hypocalcemia is a condition where

blood calcium levels are too low.
Causes include vitamin D deficiency,
hypoparathyroidism, and certain
medications.
Symptoms may include muscle cramps,
tingling in the extremities, and seizures.
Treatment involves calcium
supplements and addressing the
underlying condition.
 Hyperphosphatemia:

Hyperphosphatemia is an elevated level of

phosphorus in the blood.
It can result from kidney dysfunction or excessive
dietary intake.
Symptoms are often related to associated
conditions and may include muscle pain and bone
problems.
Treatment focuses on the underlying cause and
dietary adjustments.
 Hypophosphatemia:

Hypophosphatemia is a condition where blood

phosphorus levels are too low.
Causes include certain medications and metabolic
disorders.
Symptoms may include muscle weakness, fatigue,
and respiratory problems.
Treatment involves addressing the underlying
cause and phosphorus supplementation.
MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS
Osteoarthritis (OA):
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that
affects the cartilage, causing pain and stiffness.
It commonly occurs in weight-bearing joints like the
knees, hips, and spine.
Symptoms include joint pain, limited range of
motion, and joint swelling.
Treatment includes pain management, physical
therapy, and in severe cases, joint replacement
surgery.
 Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder

that primarily affects the joints.
It leads to joint inflammation, pain, and damage.
Symptoms include joint swelling, morning stiffness,
and fatigue.
Treatment includes disease-modifying
antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and anti-
inflammatory medications.
 Osteoporosis:

Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by

weakened bones that are prone to fractures.
It often occurs in postmenopausal women and the
elderly.
Symptoms may not be evident until a fracture
occurs.
Treatment includes calcium and vitamin D
supplements, weight-bearing exercises, and
medications to strengthen bones.
 Scoliosis:

Scoliosis is a curvature of the spine, which

can be congenital or develop during growth
spurts in adolescence.
Symptoms may include an uneven
shoulder or hip height and back pain.
Treatment depends on the degree of
curvature and may involve bracing or
surgery.
 Gout:

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of

uric acid crystals in the joints.
It typically affects the big toe but can involve other
joints.
Symptoms include sudden and severe joint pain,
redness, and swelling.
Treatment involves medications to lower uric acid
levels and manage pain during flares.
 Fibromyalgia:

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder

characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain,
fatigue, and sleep disturbances.
Symptoms also include tender points on the body.
Treatment focuses on pain management, physical
therapy, and lifestyle changes.
 Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS):

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition where

pressure on the median nerve in the wrist causes
numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand.
Symptoms are often associated with repetitive hand
and wrist movements.
Treatment may involve wrist splints, physical
therapy, or surgery in severe cases.
Herniated Disc (Bulging Disc):

A herniated disc occurs when the

soft center of a spinal disc pushes
through a crack in the tougher
exterior.
Symptoms depend on the location
but may include back pain,
sciatica, and muscle weakness.
Treatment includes rest, physical
therapy, and in some cases,
surgery.
 Hemophilia:

Hemophilia is a genetic disorder that impairs blood

clotting, leading to prolonged bleeding.
It is caused by deficiencies in clotting factors, such as
factor VIII (hemophilia A) or factor IX (hemophilia B).
Symptoms include easy bruising, joint bleeding, and
excessive bleeding after injuries.
Treatment includes replacement therapy with the
missing clotting factor.
 Anemia:
Anemia is a condition characterized by a deficiency
of red blood cells (RBCs) or a decrease in their ability
to carry oxygen.
Symptoms include fatigue, pale skin, weakness, and
shortness of breath.
Anemia can result from various causes, including
iron deficiency, vitamin deficiency, chronic disease,
or blood loss.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and
may involve iron supplements, blood transfusions,
or medications.
 Thrombocytopenia:
Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by a
low platelet count in the blood, leading to a higher
risk of bleeding.
It can be caused by various factors, including
autoimmune disorders, medications, or bone marrow
disorders.
Symptoms may include petechiae (small red or
purple dots on the skin), easy bruising, and
nosebleeds.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and
severity and may involve medications or platelet
transfusions.
 Leukemia:

Leukemia is a cancer of the blood-forming tissues,

primarily the bone marrow and blood.
There are different types of leukemia, including
acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and chronic
myeloid leukemia (CML).
Symptoms may include fatigue, frequent infections,
and easy bleeding or bruising.
Treatment varies by type and may involve
chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell
transplantation, or targeted therapies.
 Sickle Cell Disease:

Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder

that causes red blood cells to become
misshapen and break down more
easily, leading to anemia and pain
crises.
Symptoms include severe pain, fatigue,
and susceptibility to infections.
Treatment includes pain management,
blood transfusions, and medications to
reduce complications.
 Polycythemia Vera:

Polycythemia vera is a rare blood

cancer characterized by an
overproduction of red blood cells.
Symptoms include headaches,
itching, and an increased risk of
blood clots.
Treatment aims to reduce the risk
of complications and may involve
bloodletting, medication, or
aspirin therapy.
 Lymphoma:

Lymphoma is a cancer that begins in the

lymphatic system, which is part of the
immune system.
There are two main types: Hodgkin
lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Symptoms may include swollen lymph
nodes, fatigue, and fever.
Treatment varies by type and stage and
may include chemotherapy, radiation
therapy, or immunotherapy.
 MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS
Depression (Major Depressive Disorder):

Depression is a mood disorder characterized by

persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a
lack of interest or pleasure in activities.
Symptoms may include changes in appetite and
sleep, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.
Treatment often involves psychotherapy,
medication, or a combination of both.
 Anxiety Disorders:

Anxiety disorders, such as Generalized

Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Panic
Disorder, involve excessive and
irrational worry or fear.
Symptoms can range from
restlessness and racing thoughts to
panic attacks.
Treatment includes therapy,
medication, and stress management
techniques.
 Bipolar Disorder:

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder

characterized by extreme mood swings,
including periods of mania (elevated
mood) and depression.
Symptoms of mania may include
increased energy, impulsivity, and
reduced need for sleep.
Treatment often involves mood-
stabilizing medications and
psychotherapy.
 Schizophrenia:

Schizophrenia is a severe
mental disorder characterized
by distorted thinking,
hallucinations, delusions, and
impaired social functioning.
Symptoms can vary widely
among individuals.
Treatment includes
antipsychotic medications,
therapy, and support services.
 Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD):

OCD is an anxiety disorder marked by

intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive
behaviors (compulsions) aimed at reducing
anxiety.
Common obsessions include fears of
contamination or the need for symmetry.
Treatment includes cognitive-behavioral
therapy (CBT) and medication.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):

PTSD can develop after exposure to a

traumatic event and is characterized by
flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety.
Symptoms may also include avoidance of
reminders of the trauma and mood
changes.
Treatment involves therapy, such as
exposure therapy or eye movement
desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR),
and sometimes medication.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity
Disorder (ADHD):

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental
disorder characterized by
persistent patterns of inattention,
hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Symptoms may affect academic
and social functioning.
Treatment often includes
behavioral therapy and
medication.
Eating Disorders (e.g., Anorexia Nervosa,
Bulimia Nervosa):

Eating disorders involve unhealthy

attitudes and behaviors related to
food, weight, and body image.
Symptoms can include extreme
calorie restriction, binge eating, and
purging.
Treatment may involve
psychotherapy, nutritional
counseling, and medical monitoring.
 Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD):
CKD is a progressive condition characterized by the
gradual loss of kidney function over time.
It can be caused by diabetes, hypertension, or other
underlying conditions.
Symptoms may include fatigue, swelling, and
changes in urination.
Treatment focuses on managing the underlying
cause and may involve dietary changes, medication,
or dialysis in severe cases.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI):

A UTI is an infection that can

occur anywhere in the urinary
system, including the bladder
(cystitis) or kidneys
(pyelonephritis).
Symptoms often include frequent
urination, pain or burning during
urination, and lower abdominal
discomfort.
Treatment involves antibiotics.
 Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis):

Kidney stones are hard mineral and salt

deposits that form in the kidneys and can
block the urinary tract.
Symptoms may include severe back or
abdominal pain, blood in the urine, and
frequent urination.
Treatment depends on the size and location
of the stone and may include pain
management, hydration, or medical
procedures to remove or break up the stone.
 Acute Kidney Injury (AKI):

AKI is a sudden loss of kidney

function, often due to factors such as
severe infection, dehydration, or
medication toxicity.
Symptoms include decreased urine
output, fluid retention, and
confusion.
Treatment involves addressing the
underlying cause, supportive care,
and sometimes dialysis.
 Glomerulonephritis:

Glomerulonephritis is inflammation of the

glomeruli (tiny filtering units) in the
kidneys.
It can result from infections, autoimmune
disorders, or other causes.
Symptoms may include blood in the urine,
swelling, and high blood pressure.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause
and may include medications to reduce
inflammation and manage symptoms.
 Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD):

PKD is a genetic disorder where fluid-filled cysts

develop in the kidneys, gradually affecting kidney
function.
Symptoms may include abdominal pain, high blood
pressure, and kidney enlargement.
Treatment focuses on managing complications and
may involve blood pressure control and pain
management.
 Incontinence:

Incontinence refers to the loss of

bladder control, which can lead to
involuntary urine leakage.
There are different types, including
stress incontinence, urge
incontinence, and overflow
incontinence.
Treatment varies based on the type
and may include pelvic floor
exercises, medication, or surgery.
Interstitial Cystitis (Painful Bladder Syndrome):

Interstitial cystitis is a chronic condition

characterized by bladder pain and frequent
urination.
Symptoms can resemble a UTI but without infection.
Treatment may include dietary changes,
medications, and bladder training.
 NEUROLOGICAL SYSTEM
DISORDERS
Alzheimer's Disease:

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive

neurodegenerative disorder that affects memory,
thinking, and behavior.
Symptoms include memory loss, confusion, and
personality changes.
There is currently no cure, but treatments aim to
manage symptoms and slow progression.
 Parkinson's Disease:

Parkinson's disease is a
progressive neurological disorder
that affects movement control.
Symptoms include tremors,
muscle rigidity, bradykinesia
(slowness of movement), and
postural instability.
Treatment includes medications,
physical therapy, and sometimes
surgery.
 Multiple Sclerosis (MS):

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune

disease that affects the central nervous
system, causing demyelination of nerve
fibers.
Symptoms vary widely and can include
fatigue, numbness, muscle weakness,
and coordination problems.
Treatment includes disease-modifying
medications to reduce relapses and
symptom management.
 Epilepsy:

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by

recurrent seizures, which can vary in type and
severity.
Seizures result from abnormal electrical activity in
the brain.
Treatment involves antiepileptic medications,
lifestyle modifications, and, in some cases, surgery.
 Migraine:

Migraine is a type of severe headache

often accompanied by nausea,
vomiting, and sensitivity to light and
sound.
It can be triggered by various factors,
including stress, hormones, and
certain foods.
Treatment includes medications for
acute attacks and preventive
measures.
 Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS):

ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that

affects motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord.
Symptoms include muscle weakness, paralysis, and
difficulty speaking and swallowing.
There is no cure for ALS, and treatment focuses on
managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
 Huntington's Disease:

Huntington's disease is a genetic

disorder that causes progressive
degeneration of nerve cells in
the brain.
Symptoms include motor
abnormalities, cognitive decline,
and psychiatric symptoms.
There is no cure, but
medications can help manage
symptoms.
 Cerebral Palsy:

Cerebral palsy is a group of neurological

disorders that affect movement and
posture.
It typically develops in childhood due to
brain damage or abnormalities.
Symptoms can range from mild motor
difficulties to severe impairment.
Treatment involves physical and
occupational therapy, assistive devices,
and sometimes surgery.
 CRITICAL CARE
Definition of Critical Care:

Critical care, also known as

intensive care, is a
specialized branch of
medicine focused on the
comprehensive care and
monitoring of patients with
life-threatening conditions
or severe injuries.
 Critical Care Unit (CCU):

A Critical Care Unit is a specialized hospital

department equipped to provide intensive care to
critically ill patients.
It is staffed by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare
professionals, including intensivists, nurses,
respiratory therapists, and other specialists.
 Common Conditions Treated in Critical Care:

Respiratory Failure:
When the lungs cannot provide adequate oxygen or
remove carbon dioxide from the blood.
Cardiac Arrest:
A sudden and complete loss of heart function,
requiring immediate resuscitation.
Trauma:
Severe injuries, such as those from accidents, falls, or
violence, often requiring surgical intervention.
 Sepsis:
A life-threatening condition caused by the body's
response to infection, leading to organ dysfunction.
Stroke:
A sudden disruption of blood flow to the brain, often
requiring prompt intervention to minimize damage.
Organ Failure:
Dysfunction or failure of vital organs, including the
heart, lungs, kidneys, and liver.
Postoperative Care:
Close monitoring and support for patients following
surgery, especially for complex procedures.
 Key Aspects of Critical Care:

Continuous Monitoring:
Critical care patients are closely monitored
with advanced technology, including ECG,
pulse oximetry, and invasive monitoring like
arterial lines and central venous catheters.
Life Support:
Mechanical ventilation may be used to
support breathing, and devices like cardiac
monitors and defibrillators are readily
available.
 Medication Management:
Administering and titrating medications to stabilize
vital signs and manage pain, infections, and other
conditions.
Multidisciplinary Team:
Collaboration among physicians, nurses, respiratory
therapists, pharmacists, and other specialists to
provide comprehensive care.
Patient and Family Support:
Offering emotional support and communication
with patients and their families, especially in critical
situations.
 Ethical and End-of-Life Care:

Addressing complex ethical issues and providing

compassionate care for patients at the end of life or
with life-limiting conditions.
 Outcomes:

The goal of critical care is

to stabilize patients,
prevent further
deterioration, and
support their recovery.
Some patients may
require ongoing care in
step-down units or
rehabilitation facilities
after leaving the ICU.
 Challenges:

Critical care can be

emotionally and physically
demanding for healthcare
providers due to the severity
of illness and complex
decision-making.
Balancing aggressive
treatment with a patient's
wishes and quality of life can
be challenging.
 Arterial Blood Gases (ABGs)
Definition of ABGs:

Arterial Blood Gases

(ABGs) are blood tests that
measure the levels of
oxygen (O2) and carbon
dioxide (CO2), as well as
the pH of the blood, in the
arterial circulation.
 Components of ABGs:
pH (Acidity/Alkalinity):

Normal range: 7.35 to 7.45.

An acidic pH indicates <7.35, while an alkaline pH
indicates >7.45.
Acidosis (pH < 7.35) may result from conditions like
respiratory or metabolic acidosis.
Alkalosis (pH > 7.45) may result from conditions like
hyperventilation or metabolic alkalosis.
 PaO2 (Partial Pressure of Oxygen):
Normal range: 80 to 100 mm Hg.
Measures the amount of oxygen dissolved in
the blood.
Low PaO2 may indicate hypoxemia, often due
to respiratory issues.
PaCO2 (Partial Pressure of Carbon Dioxide):
Normal range: 35 to 45 mm Hg.
Measures the amount of carbon dioxide dissolved in
the blood.
High PaCO2 may indicate respiratory acidosis, while
low PaCO2 may indicate respiratory alkalosis.
HCO3- (Bicarbonate Ion):

Normal range: 22 to
28 mEq/L.
Reflects the amount
of bicarbonate in the
blood.
High HCO3- may
indicate metabolic
alkalosis, while low
HCO3- may indicate
metabolic acidosis.
 Clinical Applications:

ABGs are critical for assessing a

patient's respiratory and
metabolic status and providing
insights into the effectiveness
of ventilation and oxygenation.
They are particularly
important in patients with
respiratory distress, acid-base
imbalances, and critical
illnesses.
 Interpretation:
Interpretation of ABGs involves assessing the pH,
PaO2, PaCO2, and HCO3- in relation to each other.
Understanding the relationship between pH and the
other components is key in determining whether an
imbalance is primarily respiratory or metabolic.
Compensatory Mechanisms:
The body can compensate for respiratory or
metabolic imbalances to some extent, which may
involve changes in the other component (e.g.,
metabolic compensation for respiratory acid-base
imbalances).
 Nursing Interventions:

Nurses play a crucial role in arterial blood gas

sampling, patient preparation, and monitoring.
Interventions may include patient education,
assisting with the procedure, and ensuring
accurate labeling and transport of blood samples.
GASTROINTESTINAL DISEASES
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD):

GERD is a chronic condition where stomach acid

flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn
and potential damage to the esophagus lining.
Symptoms include heartburn, regurgitation, and
chest pain.
Treatment involves lifestyle changes and
medications to reduce acid production.
 Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder

characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel
habits without apparent structural abnormalities.
Symptoms may include diarrhea, constipation,
bloating, and abdominal cramps.
Management focuses on dietary modifications,
stress reduction, and medications for symptom
relief.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD):

IBD includes conditions like

Crohn's disease and ulcerative
colitis, which involve chronic
inflammation of the digestive tract.
Symptoms include abdominal pain,
diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue.
Treatment includes medications to
control inflammation, dietary
changes, and sometimes surgery.
 Celiac Disease:

Celiac disease is an
autoimmune disorder
triggered by gluten
consumption, leading to
damage in the small intestine.
Symptoms include diarrhea,
abdominal pain, and
malabsorption of nutrients.
Management involves a strict
gluten-free diet.
 Diverticulitis:

Diverticulitis is inflammation or infection of small

pouches (diverticula) in the colon wall.
Symptoms include abdominal pain, fever, and
changes in bowel habits.
Treatment may include antibiotics and dietary
adjustments.
 Peptic Ulcers:

Peptic ulcers are open sores that

develop on the lining of the
stomach, small intestine, or
esophagus.
Symptoms include abdominal
pain, indigestion, and nausea.
Treatment involves medications
to reduce stomach acid and
sometimes antibiotics for H.
pylori infection.
 Gallstones:

Gallstones are solid particles that

form in the gallbladder and can cause
abdominal pain and blockage of the
bile duct.
Symptoms may include severe
abdominal pain, especially after fatty
meals.
Treatment may involve dietary
changes, medications, or surgical
removal of the gallbladder.
 Hepatitis:

Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver, often due to

viral infections (e.g., Hepatitis A, B, C).
Symptoms include jaundice, fatigue, and abdominal
discomfort.
Management varies by the type of hepatitis and may
include antiviral medications or supportive care.