Page 22 - Critical Care Notes

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BASICS

Ventilator Complications—cont’d

Complication Signs & Symptoms/Interventions
Communication difficulties Keep communication simple.
Obtain slate or writing board.
Use letter/picture chart.
Communicate using sign language.
Urinary tract infection Urine becoming cloudy, concentrated,
odorous
Change/remove Foley catheter.
Ensure adequate hydration.
Administer anti-infectives.
Deep vein thrombosis Painful, swollen leg; pain may increase
on dorsiflexion
Assess for pulmonary embolism. Refer
to Respiratory tab.
Administer heparin or enoxaparin.
Psychosocial concerns: fear, loss, Anxiety
powerlessness, pain, anxiety, Difficulty sleeping
sleep disturbances, nightmares, Poor pain control
loneliness Administer anxiolytics, sedatives, anal-
gesics.
Cluster activities to promote periods of
sleep.
Allow patient to make choices when
appropriate.
Allow for frequent family visits.
Keep patient and family informed.
Neuromuscular Blocking Agents (NMBA)
Purposes
■ Facilitate ETT intubation.
■ Facilitate mechanical ventilation and improve gas exchange.
■ Reduce ICP.
■ Control excessive shivering.
Neuromuscular Blocking Agents Used
■ Succinylcholine (Quelicin)
■ Rocuronium (Zemuron)
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