Medical-Surgical Nursing Topics

Lecture by Professor D covering mixed topics in medical-surgical nursing, ideal for Med-Surg exams, ATI, NCLEX, and HESI preparation.

Blood Transfusion Protocol

• Select All That Apply (SATA) Approach: Treat as true or false.
• Key Points:
  • Assess client's lung fields before fluids (e.g., blood) for crackles or fluid overload symptoms.
  • Client must sign a consent form before receiving blood.
  • IV catheter size for blood: 18 to 20 gauge (not 22 gauge) to prevent hemolysis.
  • D5W is incompatible with blood transfusions.
  • Doctor's order is mandatory before blood transfusion.

Psoriasis Diagnosis

• Characteristics: Red elevated plaques with silvery white scales.
• Mnemonic: Silvery scales → think psoriasis.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome

• Significant History: Recent gastroenteritis.
• Association: Triggered by bacterial or viral infections.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

• Lab Alert: WBC of 15,000 signals possible infection.
• Normal WBC Range: 5,000 to 10,000.

Arthroscopic Surgery for Knee Injury

• Post-Op Care:
  • Begin strengthening surgical leg immediately to prevent complications like DVT and to promote joint health.
  • Pain medication is prescribed as needed, not routinely.
  • Patient should not remain on bed rest; early mobility is encouraged.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Detection

• Key Indicator: Increased calf circumference.
• Misleading Sign: Positive Homan's sign is not definitive for DVT.

COPD and Oxygen Therapy

• COPD Consideration: Do not increase oxygen above 4 liters/min; may reduce the drive to breathe.
• Nursing Action: Instruct UAP not to alter oxygen settings, then assess the patient.

Cancer of the Larynx

• Priority Problem: Risk for aspiration (can be fatal).

Heparin Drip and Chest Pain

• Immediate Action: Apply oxygen first due to suspicion of pulmonary embolism.

GERD Treatment Orders

• Questionable Order: Protonix four times a day is incorrect (normally once/twice daily).

Crohn's Disease

• Critical Lab Value: Potassium level of 3.3 (risk for dysrhythmia, normal 3.5-5).

Diverticulosis Prevention

• Advice: Increase dietary fiber to prevent complications.

Conclusion

• Encouragement to follow Professor D on TikTok and Instagram for more nursing content.
• Request for support through sharing content to help grow the channel.