Stress is the body’s response to dangerous circumstances, whether they are actual or only perceived as such. When a person feels threatened, the body experiences a hormonal change that enables it to respond and prevent harm. This stress response, or the “fight-or-flight” response, is when the body prepares to defend itself and reacts by increasing … Read more
Unstable blood glucose refers to a deviation from normal blood glucose levels that results in either hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. Unstable blood glucose does not necessarily mean the patient is diabetic. For example, in temporary situations such as dehydration or pregnancy, when the source is resolved, blood sugar levels may return to normal. That being said, … Read more
Aspiration occurs when food, secretions, fluids, or other substances enter the airways or lungs. When you swallow, the epiglottis should close over the trachea which prevents food or fluids from entering the trachea (often called the windpipe). If this mechanism fails, unintended substances can end up in the lungs which can cause complications such as … Read more
Ineffective airway clearance is the inability to clear secretions or obstructions from the respiratory tract. This can be detrimental to breathing and create complications. Secretions can be problematic as a result of a condition such as cystic fibrosis or related to an inability to clear secretions such as with a stroke deficit or the presence … Read more
Impaired verbal communication describes an inability to receive, relay, or process language. The reasons for this can range broadly from a language barrier to a physical barrier impeding speech. Conditions such as autism can cause developmental speech delays while a stroke can lead to a wide array of speech deficits. Some impairments can be overcome … Read more
Hopelessness occurs when a patient sees no alternative to their situation and is unable to energize themselves to overcome obstacles. Hopelessness is often seen in healthcare as patients suffer from chronic diseases or traumatic accidents that prevent them from living life to their full ability. When patients cannot perform ADLs, maintain a career, or parent … Read more
Noncompliance occurs when a patient (family, caregiver, guardian) fails to adhere to a healthcare provider’s recommendations or prescribed treatment plan. This can include medications, procedures, follow-up appointments, and lifestyle modifications. It is important to note that noncompliance has a negative connotation as it refers more to a provider deciding on a suitable treatment with the … Read more
Insomnia is the disruption in the amount and quality of sleep to the extent that it impairs functioning. Inadequate sleep can have detrimental effects on a patient’s physical and mental well-being. Our bodies repair themselves when we sleep and sleep restores our mental clarity. Insomnia can be temporary and will resolve once the cause is … Read more
Acute confusion is an abrupt disruption in consciousness, attention, cognition, and perception. It is reversible and is a symptom of an underlying condition. Causes can range in severity and pinpointing the precipitating factor is important in order to treat the patient and improve confusion. The nurse’s role in acute confusion is to first ensure patient … Read more
Impaired urinary elimination can occur as a result of a physical abnormality, a sensory impairment, or as a secondary cause of a disorder or disease. Symptoms can vary widely from bladder distention to painful urination to a complete lack of bladder control. Treatment depends on the cause and can include noninvasive interventions such as bladder … Read more