Term
| What do nurses caring for intraspinal catheters need to demonstrate competency in? |
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Definition
Maintenance
Assessment of Placement
Function of the Device
Anatomy, physiology, neuropharmacology
Potential Complications |
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Term
True or False
Preservatives are never used in epidural or intrathecal spaces. |
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Definition
True
Preservatives can damage the nerve. |
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Term
| For patients who need prolongs analgesia, what epidural medication is preferred? |
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Definition
Preservative free morphine;
it has a slower onset of action and a longer duration of action. |
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Term
| When accessing, caring for, and maintaining the intraspinal device, what precautions should the nurse take? |
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Definition
Steril Technique
Mask and Glove |
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Term
| When preparing a site for an epidural or cleaning a catheter hub, what should the nurse keep in mind? |
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Definition
NEVER USE ALCOHOL!!!
It may cause neurotoxicity |
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Term
| When giving an intraspinal infusion, what filter should you use? |
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Definition
| 0.2 micron filter that is surfactant-free and particulate-retentive. |
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Term
| Epidural devices should be aspirated to assess for the absence of what? |
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Definition
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Term
| What should the nurse assess when inspecting the spinal catheter? |
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Definition
| Inspect the skin visually and palpate for tenderness and check for intact dressing. Check the catheter length too. |
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Term
| After the spinal catheter has been inserted, what is the correct way to position the external portion of the catheter? |
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Definition
| Lay the exposed catheter length cephalad along the spine and over the shoulder. Tape the entire length of the exposed catheter in place to provide stability and protection. |
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Term
Why would a nurse label the epidural catheter? |
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Definition
| A nurse would clearly label the epidural catheter to prevent accidental infusions of fluid or medication. |
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