chapter 14 review

What is an oxygen concentrator?

a box-like device that changes air in the room into air with more oxygen.

What is a nasal cannula?

a piece of plastic tubing that fits around the face and is secured by a strap that goes over the ears and around the back of the head.

When are non-sterile dressings usually used?

applied to dry, closed wounds that have less chance of infection.

list five vital signs that must be monitored.

body temperature, pulse rate, rate of respirations, blood pressure, and the level of pain.

why is oxygen a dangerous fire hazard?

it makes other things burn.

what are the sites for measuring the body temperature?

mouth (oral), rectum (rectal), armpit (axilla), ear (tympanic), and temporal artery (forehead)

Why should respirations be counted immediately after taking the pulse, while the fingers are still on the wrist?

people may alter their breathing if they know they are being observed.

list seven ways to reduce pain

position the body in proper alignment, give back rubs, ask if the resident would like to take a warm bath or shower, assist the resident to the bathroom or commode or offer the bedpan or urinal, encourage slow, deep breathing, provide a calm and quiet environment, and be patient, caring, gentle, empathetic, and responsive to residents who are in pain.

what is the most common site for monitoring the pulse? where is it located?

radial pulse located on the inside of the wrist.

how are blood pressure numbers written and recorded?

record the numbers like a fraction, with the systolic reading on top and the diastolic reading on the bottom. note which arm was used.

which temperature site is considered to be the most accurate?

rectal site

what is a NA's only responsibility as far as IV therapy is concerned?

report and document any observations of changes or problems with the IV line.

list six signs of poor circulation that an NA can observe for when an elastic bandage is applied.

swelling, pale, gray, cyanotic, or white skin, shiny, tight skin, skin that is cold to the touch, sores, and numbness.

list and define the two phases measured in a blood pressure reading.

systolic phase (top number) the heart is at work. diastolic phase (bottom number) the heart relaxes.

what are the benefits of warm applications? what are the benefits of cold applications?

warm applications: relieves pain, relieves muscular tension, reduces swelling, elevates the temperature in the tissues, and increases blood flow. cold applications: stop bleeding, prevent swelling, reduce pain, and bring down high fevers.