ICU Equipment for Acute Care Therapy

MIAMI J HARD CERVICAL COLLAR - correct answer A hard cervical collar is used for spine problems or injuries. It limits forward and backward movement more than a soft one does. Hard collars are usually only used after major surgery or a serious injury, such as a broken neck. The collar must stay in place until spinal injury is ruled out. Check for order before removing. Assess for skin breakdown. If prolonged use, apply cushioning/ padding to back. The hole in the front allows for emergency tracheostomy if needed. VENTROCULOSTOMY - correct answer A ventriculostomy is a device that drains excess cerebrospinal fluid from the head. It is also used to measure the pressure in the head (referred to as ICP, intracranial pressure). The system is made up of a small tube, drainage bag, and monitor. Have a second person manage and protect the line with movement to avoid traumatic removal. Do not mobilize patient or reposition head without an order. The drainage bag may need to be clamped by the nurse prior to mobilization. In order to accurately read ICP, the transducer must be positioned at the appropriate level. ECG (EKG) MONITOR - correct answer The Electrocardiogram (ECG) monitor is a non-invasive method to record the electrical activity of the heart. Heart rate and rhythm can be monitored continuously. Movement may cause artifact. Monitor for changes in rhythm and always assess patient condition first before responding to information from the monitor screen. 5 ECG Lead Placement - correct answer White= upper right - on the right side, just below the clavicle (midway) Green= lower right - on the right on the lower edge of the rib cage. Black= upper left - on the left side just below the clavicle. Red=