What is refractory hypoxemia? - No matter how much oxygen the patient is on, the O2 sats are
not getting any better
What is a pheochromocytoma? - A catecholamine producing tumor that arises in the adrenal
medulla. The tumor releases an excess amount of epinephrine and NE.
Describe flail chest. - 2 or more completely broken ribs with no support. Creates a paradoxical
chest movement.
What are symptoms of a tension pneumothorax? - Absent breath sounds
Cyanosis
Distended neck veins
Dyspnea
Describe the A/C vent mode. - The vent does everything for the patient. It delivers a set amount
of breaths per minute
Describe SIMV vent mode. - The pt attempts to breath and the vent assists with their breaths
What are the different ventilator settings? - Mode
FiO2
Rate
Tidal Volume (Vt)
PEEP
What is PEEP? - It is positive pressure that tells the alveoli in the lungs to stay open a little longer.
It helps with gas exchange.
, What are the 3 buttons that a nurse is able to touch on a vent? - Silence
Restart
100% Oxygen (before suctioning a patient)
When is it acceptable to shut off a vent alarm? - NEVER
What should be done when a patient is in respiratory distress? - *Call for help, disconnect the
vent, start bagging the patient, then reassess*
How is an ET tube placement confirmed? - From first to last
ETCO2 20-40mmHg
Chest symmetry
Listen to left/right/abdomen
Chest X-Ray
What are ways to prevent VAP? - *Remove water from circuits*
*HOB up to 30 degrees*
Turn Q2h
Suction
Oral care Q2H
Prevent aspiration
Lip moisturizer
Percussion
Give examples of what could cause a high pressure alarm. - Blocked airway
Coughing
Tension pneumothorax
Anxiety/Pain: Sedate them