Nursing in critical care
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Nursing in critical care · May 1998
ReviewHaemodynamic monitoring of the pregnant woman in intensive care.
A brief summary of the reasons why a pregnant woman may require intensive care is outlined. The clinical relevance of the physiological changes occurring in pregnancy is discussed. The haemodynamic differences and their relevance to monitoring are highlighted.
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Nursing in critical care · Nov 1997
ReviewThe need for assessment of sedation in the critically ill.
There is a need for assessment of sedation in ICU as sedative agents are potent drugs that are used frequently but not regularly monitored for their efficacy. Critical care nurses are accountable when administering potent intravenous drugs, such as sedative agents. ⋯ A number of sedative drugs commonly used in ICU, such as propofol, are highlighted. Sedation assessment tools available are considered but each may be appropriate in different situations.
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Ten years ago' endothelium derived relaxing factor' was identified as nitric oxide (NO.). This highly significant discovery revealed the importance of NO. in normal physiology and pathophysiology. ⋯ The effect of NO. in multi-system failure is not yet established. Formal evaluation in the form of clinical trials has yet to be undertaken, and further study of all the potential side effects and toxicity are required for conclusive evidence of the value of inhaled NO. in the treatment of ARDS.
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Nursing in critical care · Sep 1997
ReviewThe impact of the ageing population on intensive care provision.
This paper explores the impact of the ageing population on the health service and intensive care provision. The concept of rationing is discussed. The paper concludes that age alone is not a reliable prediction of outcome (e.g. length of stay; mortality). The review highlights the lack of literature available offering a comparison of costs associated with intensive care management of the elderly.
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Nursing in critical care · May 1997
ReviewThe needs of parents with a child on an adult intensive therapy unit.
This review examines, by means of a literature search, the needs of parents who have a critically ill child on adult intensive therapy units. These needs are compared with the needs of relatives of adult patients in ITUs. Whether nurses trained in adult nursing have the necessary skills, knowledge and attitudes to care for the parents is also discussed. Recommendations for ensuring care of the parent point to addressing skills gaps in adult-trained nurses and to reappraising visiting policies.