CCRN

A comprehensive study of CCRN, covering critical care nursing concepts from basics to advanced applications.

Introduction to Critical Care NursingCardiovascular System in Critical CarePulmonary System and Mechanical Ventilation
Neurological Assessment and CareShock States and Hemodynamic ManagementRenal and Metabolic Emergencies
Family and Patient-Centered CareRapid Response and Code BluePreventing Hospital-Acquired Infections
Effective Study Techniques for CCRNTest-Taking and Stress Management
Introduction to Crit...Cardiovascular Syste...Pulmonary System and...Neurological Assessm...Shock States and Hem...Renal and Metabolic ...Family and Patient-C...Rapid Response and C...Preventing Hospital-...Effective Study Tech...Test-Taking and Stre...
Basic Concepts

Cardiovascular System in Critical Care

Understanding the Heart in Crisis

The heart is at the center of critical care! Nurses need to know how to recognize and respond to problems like arrhythmias, heart attacks, and heart failure.

Monitoring and Interventions

  • Telemetry helps track heart rhythms.
  • Hemodynamic monitoring involves measuring blood pressure inside arteries, veins, and the heart.
  • Medications such as vasopressors or antiarrhythmics are often used.

Recognizing Warning Signs

Sudden changes in blood pressure, chest pain, and abnormal EKGs all demand immediate attention.

Real-World Applications

If a patient develops ventricular tachycardia, the nurse must act fast—calling for a code, starting CPR, and using a defibrillator if necessary.

Examples

  • A nurse starts a nitroglycerin drip for a patient with chest pain and closely monitors their blood pressure.

  • A patient goes into ventricular fibrillation, and the nurse initiates defibrillation.

In a Nutshell

The cardiovascular system is a key focus in critical care, requiring quick action and detailed monitoring.

Key Terms

Telemetry
Continuous electronic monitoring of a patient's heart rhythm.
Arrhythmia
An abnormal heart rhythm.
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Pulmonary System and Mechanical Ventilation