Do you ever feel that the doctors and nurses are speaking in a foreign language?
The following is a collection of terms used in the intensive care unit. Feel
free to ask questions if you do not understand.
Arterial blood gases (ABGs) is a test that measures the levels of oxygen
and carbon dioxide in the blood.
Arterial line (A-line or Art line) is a catheter
that is placed in an artery to continually measure blood pressure. This is called hemodynamic monitoring. It also allows the nurses to draw blood without repeated needle
sticks.
Accucheck obtains blood samples by finger stick to
measure blood sugar levels.
Chest tubes are placed by the physician in the space surrounding the
heart or lungs. They drain fluid and/or air from the body cavity.
Comatose is a state of unconsciousness. There are many degrees of coma.
Remember that comatose patients can often hear what is being said around them.
Dialysis is a medical procedure for the removal of certain elements from
the blood or lymphatic system.
Electrocardiogram (EKG)
is a graphic picture of the heart rhythm.
Endotracheal tube (ET tube) is passed through the nose or mouth into
the lungs to open and maintain airway and provide oxygen to the patient. This
tube is usually connected to a ventilator. The nurse can remove secretions from
this tube by inserting a small catheter and suctioning. When the ET tube is
inserted it is called intubation; when it is removed, extubation. When the ET
tube is in place, the patient cannot speak, so alternative means for communication
are necessary. Once the ET tube is removed, the patient will be able to speak
as before however they may be slightly hoarse.
Feeding tube is a soft, flexible tube inserted through the nose or mouth
into the stomach or small bowel. Nutrition and medications can be delivered
through this tube.
Hyperalimentation (hyperal, TPN)
is a concentrated formula of sugars, proteins, vitamins and minerals used to
provide nutrition to the patient through the intravenous (IV) route.
Intake and output (I & O) is an accounting of fluid taken in, lost
or secreted.
Intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring is a measurement of the pressure
inside the head. This is done by inserting a small needle or tube between the
layers of tissue surrounding the brain. It is often used in cases of head injury
or brain surgery.
Intravenous (IV) is a small catheter placed in a vein to deliver fluids
and medications. Examples of larger IVs include quintons, PICC lines, triple
lumens and permacaths.
Isolation is when a person is placed in a closed room. The person
has germs or bacteria that may pose a threat to others, or needs to be protected
from the everyday germs in the environment. Special precautions need to be taken
by those caring for and visiting the patient. These may include putting on gowns,
gloves and masks. Hands should be washed prior to entering and after leaving
the patient room. Signs are placed outside the room to notify others of the
precautions.
Lipids are white, liquid forms of fats that are used to provide nutrition
to the patient through the intravenous route. Usually administered with TPN.
Myocardial infarction (MI)
or heart attack causes damage to the heart as a result of an interruption in
the blood and oxygen supply to a portion of the heart muscle.
Nasogastric (NG) tube is a flexible tube inserted through the nose or
mouth into the stomach. The tube may be connected to suction to remove secretions
or used to administer nutrition and medications.
NPO means no food or drink by mouth.
Oxygen is a normal component of the air we breath. Often, when a patient
is critically ill, greater concentrations are required. Oxygen can be delivered
to the patient via nasal prongs, facemask or ventilator.
Pulse oximeter is a sensor that is used to monitor the concentration
of oxygen in the patient's blood.
Sepsis is infection in the blood or other tissues.
Sequential compression devise (pneumoboots) is usually used with TED
stockings to improve circulation of the lower extremities.
Suction is the process of applying negative pressure to remove secretions.
Swan ganz catheter (Swan) is a small flexible tube inserted into one
of the main vessels leading to the heart. The tip of the catheter lies in the
pulmonary artery, a vessel between the heart and lungs. The physicians and nurses
can monitor various pressures in the heart and lungs through this tube. It gives
them information about the fluid needs of the body and the heart's pumping ability.
This catheter can also be used to administer fluids and medications.
TED stockings are placed on the legs to improve circulation while a patient
is on bedrest.
Titrate is the act of adjusting medications and treatments to the
patient's response.
Urinary catheter (Foley)
is a soft, flexible tube inserted into the bladder to drain urine.
Vasopressors (pressors) are medications used to control blood pressure.
Ventilator (respirator) is a machine that assists the patient with breathing.
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