Animal-assisted therapy and activities in the critical care setting
Abstract: Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) and animal-assisted activities (AAA) are different dimensions in the field of human-animal interaction that incorporate various species of animals in diverse manners to benefit humans. Research shows physiologic and psychological benefits of AAT/AAA but is limited in the area of critical care. Current guidelines discourage the use of AAT/AAA in CCUs because of infection control concerns. However, these concerns can be addressed with the right policies. (Source: Nursing Critical Care)
Source: Nursing Critical Care - October 30, 2017 Category: Nursing Tags: Feature Source Type: research

Blood at the bedside: Supporting nurses during massive transfusion
Abstract: Massive transfusion is an infrequent, high-risk event requiring interprofessional teamwork and communication to achieve optimal patient outcomes. Massive transfusion protocols guide team members and standardize blood delivery. Empowering nurses to recognize and initiate massive transfusions within the defined protocol can speed the delivery of blood products to the patient. (Source: Nursing Critical Care)
Source: Nursing Critical Care - October 30, 2017 Category: Nursing Tags: Feature Source Type: research

Rapid response teams: Current perspectives
This article reviews the composition, responsibilities, and common challenges of RRTs. (Source: Nursing Critical Care)
Source: Nursing Critical Care - October 30, 2017 Category: Nursing Tags: Feature Source Type: research

Electrolyte series: Potassium
This article is a review of the ion potassium. After a brief review of intracellular and extracellular fluid compartments, the history and physiology of potassium, and the causes, signs and symptoms, and treatments of hyperkalemia and hypokalemia are covered. Both medical treatments and nursing considerations are included. This article also reviews evidence-based practice and recent research on potassium. (Source: Nursing Critical Care)
Source: Nursing Critical Care - October 30, 2017 Category: Nursing Tags: Feature Source Type: research

Finishing strong
No abstract available (Source: Nursing Critical Care)
Source: Nursing Critical Care - October 30, 2017 Category: Nursing Tags: Department: Editorial Source Type: research

Nursing is a team effort
No abstract available (Source: Nursing Critical Care)
Source: Nursing Critical Care - September 1, 2017 Category: Nursing Tags: Department: Pearls Source Type: research

Myasthenia gravis and myasthenic crisis
Abstract: Myasthenia gravis (MG) is the most commonly encountered autoimmune disease of the postsynaptic neuromuscular junction of skeletal muscles, affecting an estimated 700,000 individuals worldwide.1-3 MG has a variable age of onset, pattern of muscle involvement, severity, and clinical course. Approximately 15% to 20% of patients with MG will experience a myasthenic crisis (MC), typically within 2 years of diagnosis, which can lead to respiratory muscle compromise.4-6 Nurses must be knowledgeable about this disease and prepared to assist with pharmacologic testing and/or MC to ensure maximum safety for patients with M...
Source: Nursing Critical Care - September 1, 2017 Category: Nursing Tags: Feature Source Type: research

Burn injuries in the ICU: A case scenario approach Part 2
This article is the second part of a case study about Abe, a young Amish patient with severe burn injuries. In Part 1, various types of burns were described, as well as initial resuscitative care for patients with severe burn injuries. In Part 2, the authors detail Abe's unfolding case scenario and conclusion, cultural concerns in nursing care for an Amish patient, and the treatment modalities necessary to manage patients with burn injuries in the ICU. (Source: Nursing Critical Care)
Source: Nursing Critical Care - September 1, 2017 Category: Nursing Tags: Feature Source Type: research

Genetics in the cardiovascular ICU
This article offers a review of the clinical applications of genetics relevant to the nurse practicing in the cardiovascular ICU. (Source: Nursing Critical Care)
Source: Nursing Critical Care - September 1, 2017 Category: Nursing Tags: Feature Source Type: research

What is your interpretation?
No abstract available (Source: Nursing Critical Care)
Source: Nursing Critical Care - September 1, 2017 Category: Nursing Tags: Department: Name That Strip Source Type: research

Creating synergy in critical care competency assessment
No abstract available (Source: Nursing Critical Care)
Source: Nursing Critical Care - September 1, 2017 Category: Nursing Tags: Department: Professional Enrichment Source Type: research

Beginnings and endings
No abstract available (Source: Nursing Critical Care)
Source: Nursing Critical Care - September 1, 2017 Category: Nursing Tags: Department: Editorial Source Type: research

The other side of the stethoscope
No abstract available (Source: Nursing Critical Care)
Source: Nursing Critical Care - June 28, 2017 Category: Nursing Tags: Department: Pearls Source Type: research

Basics of general anesthesia for the critical care nurse
This article describes the stages of general anesthesia, along with related medications, potential adverse reactions, and what nurses need to know to provide optimal care. (Source: Nursing Critical Care)
Source: Nursing Critical Care - June 28, 2017 Category: Nursing Tags: Feature Source Type: research

Avoiding legal risks in critical care nursing
This article provides nurses with information on how to avoid legal risks in critical care. (Source: Nursing Critical Care)
Source: Nursing Critical Care - June 28, 2017 Category: Nursing Tags: Feature Source Type: research