Weekly Assignment (email this to your instructor):
In your own words explain the vasovagal reflex – what is it, when may it occur, and what is the treatment or prevention?
1. Give 5 reasons why each of the following could occur:
1. Bradycardia
2. Tachycardia
3. Difficulty intubating
4. Prolonged recover
Explain respiratory acidosis – how does it occur and why is it bad? Is the blood pH too low or too high? Is there too much or too little CO2 in the blood?
Discussion:
We have had several classes on anesthesia and monitoring. What has been your biggest takeaway in this subject, and is it something you have been able to implement or use in your day to day practice?
One of the biggest takeaways I have from this subject is the fundamentals of monitoring and recovery. I've always known the importance but now I understand the basic mechanics and what to be alert for and, why. I enjoyed learning about the drugs and what effects they can cause a patient while under anesthesia. I've learned a bigger understanding about the motoring equipment and maintaining a quality maintenance log for the machines. I've already begun implementing my awareness during our procedures and am working on an anesthetic machine log so all of us can gain a better awareness and understanding of the importance of these things.
One of the biggest takeaways for me was learning about the fundamentals of anesthesia, It feels great to really truly understand what you are doing. The mechanics behind it, how it affects the body, the drugs involved, and all the planning involved. Also one of the main things I have been mentioning more and more throughout the hospital would be the use of pre anesthetics.
I feel more confident in being able to monitor. I got a stethoscope that is adjustable, for my hearing imparement, and it allows me to use myself much more.
That is really awesome, its amazing how technology works. I'm sure that will help you so much. I have been meaning to buy one for myself. I find myself having trouble with the ones that are for hospital use. Multiple coworkers have one of their own, as a side note they look expensive. I am currently saving up for a good one!
I found mine on Amazon. It's a cardiac stethoscope and it has a comparable pricing at about $300. I feel lucky to have been able to get it but I've also found that, as a necessity, it was well worth it. I tried using the esophageal stethoscope but it didn't allow me the same volume as mine does. I definitely feel more at ease, knowing that I can jump in when appropriate and monitor much more accurately
I will definitely take amazon in consideration, thank you. Referring back to my takeaways on anesthesia again it feels great to understand the fundamentals behind it.