Patient Positioning and Pressure Ulcer Prevention
Ergonomics in Patient Care
Ergonomics is the science of designing work to fit the user. When applied properly, it can increase energy and work performance by providing solutions to:
- Improve working conditions
- Decrease fatigue
- Prevent injuries
- Increase satisfaction and work performance
Body Positions for Patient Care
Postural changes are used to facilitate patient examination and treatment, prevent injuries, and ensure user comfort. Positions can be divided into:
- Basic Positions: Supine (dorsal decubitus)
Clinical Assessment: Symptoms, Signs, and Diagnostic Insights
Gastrointestinal Disease Symptoms and Signs
Acute appendicitis, pancreatitis, dyspepsia, esophageal disturbances (pyrosis, regurgitation, odynophagia, dysphagia), gastroduodenal ulcers, gallbladder colic, reflux esophagitis, gastrointestinal tract (GIT) pain, viral hepatitis, hepatic steatosis, diverticulitis, anorectal lesions, and cholecystitis are common conditions.
Abdominal Pain Differentiation
Abdominal pain is differentiated according to Maratka and Jones zones. Types include:
- Somatic: Localized
Achieving Wellness: Nutrition, Health, and Public Health Strategies
Nutrition Fundamentals
Nutrition is the biochemical and physiological processes by which an organism uses food to support life.
Understanding Health and Well-being
Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease.
Types of Health
- Physical Health
- Social Health
- Spiritual Health
- Emotional Health
Physical Health: Optimal Body Function
It is defined as the state in which every cell and every organ is functioning at optimum capacity and in perfect harmony
Read MoreNeonatal and Pediatric Mechanical Ventilation: Essential Strategies
Mechanical Ventilation Indications
Mechanical ventilation is indicated in various conditions, particularly in neonates and pediatric patients. Key indications include:
Apnea and Respiratory Failure
- Apnea: Characterized by a PaO2 < 50 mmHg or PaCO2 > 65 mmHg.
- Pulmonary Diseases: Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS), Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn (PPHN), Meconium Aspiration Syndrome (MAS), Pneumonia, Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS).
- Neurological/Neuromuscular Conditions:
Understanding Health, Disease, and Well-being Factors
Health: A Holistic Definition
Health is defined as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
Life expectancy for women is 72.4 years and for men 19 years.
Challenges in Developing Countries
- Increase health spending for the entire population.
- Ensuring health coverage for as many people as possible.
- Efficient allocation of resources.
Determinants of Health
Health is influenced by several factors, some irremovable (such as hereditary factors)
Read MoreMastering Healthcare Careers: Education, English & Interview Skills
Understanding Healthcare Education & Career Paths
Embarking on a healthcare career involves various stages of education and training. Here’s a breakdown of common paths and degrees:
- Bachelor’s Degree: After finishing high school, I studied biology in a pre-med track for four years at university, earning a Bachelor’s degree.
- Medical School: After finishing my Bachelor’s degree, I will attend medical school for the next four years.
- Residency: I’ve finished medical school and am now doing my residency