Nursing Commons^™

Anti-Nmdar Encephalitis, Ashley Richards

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis is an autoimmune disorder that was only recently discovered through the identification of the anti-NMDAR autoantibody in 2007. With an increasing amount of new cases of this autoimmune disorder on the rise, it is important for healthcare providers to be aware of its pathophysiology, presentation, course of disease, and treatment modalities for the successful management of patient’s with anti-NMDAR encephalitis.

Endometriosis, Jessica Workman

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Many people have heard about endometriosis but not a lot is understood about the condition. Endometriosis is a condition where endometrium, tissue that lines the uterus, grows outside the uterus. This tissue can grow around the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowels, and bladder. When this occurs, the surrounding tissue becomes inflamed, swollen and irritated which causes scarring. The resulting lesions impede the function of the organs that they surround. The inflammation and tissue damage can lead to bleeding and painful discomfort.

There is much debate over the exact cause of endometriosis and how to best treat the condition. It is also …

Pathophysiology Of Heart Failure, Tori Morrow

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

As a nurse in the Emergency Department at Mount Carmel West, many patients come in exhibiting signs and symptoms of heart failure. Not every patient displays the same symptoms and not all patients are on the same treatment regimen. There are several different types of heart failure. These include left ventricular failure (systolic and diastolic heart failure) and right ventricular failure. It is beneficial for nurses taking care of these patients to be knowledgeable on the disease process and what symptoms patients can experience. Many compensatory mechanisms contribute to the development of heart failure. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and sympathetic nervous …

Infective Endocarditis, Christine Hein

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Infective endocarditis (IE) is a severe inflammatory disease of the endocardium, affecting valve structure and function. IE occurs when endothelial lining of the heart is damaged by direct trauma or scarring. Platelets and fibrin develop on the damaged endothelium, forming a thrombus. Thrombus formation makes it susceptible for circulating microorganisms, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae to colonize (Thornton, 2000). The vegetation enlarges due to recurrent fibrin deposition and microbial multiplication (Sandoe, Watkin, & Elliott, 2013). Patients with IE often present with a high fever, new-onset cardiac murmur, and peripheral emboli causing a rash to the extremities. Complaints may …

Ulcerative Colitis Pathology, Shannon Beitel

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Ulcerative Colitis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the gastrointestinal tract, in particularly the colon. It can be defined as intermittent bouts of inflammation with the colon causing bloody stools, pus and diarrhea. This poster delves into the pathology and pathophysiology behind the disorder.

The Pathophysiology Of Sepsis: Early Recognition And Intervention In The Healthcare Setting, John Walsh

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Sepsis can affect anyone including the immunocompromised and those at both ends of the age spectrum. The implications for nursing care with an understanding of sepsis is paramount in providing optimal patient outcomes and reducing mortality. Advanced practice nurses should be familiar with the signs and symptoms of sepsis throughout its continuum and possess an understanding of its underlying pathophysiology. In the realm of anesthesia, the ability of the nurse anesthetist to recognize and competently manage the septic patient is imperative in promoting the best possible patient outcomes.

Clostridium Difficile, Ryan Osborn

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Clostridium Difficile infection (CDI) is an antibiotic resistant bacterium that is widely recognized and currently noted to be the "most common and costly healthcare associated infection in the United States" (Abt, McKenney & Pamer, 2016). The topic of CDI is important to discuss, as this infection can attack all patient populations especially those following antibiotic treatment. A disruption in a person's intestinal microbiota is known to place them at higher risk for CDI (Abt, McKenney & Pamer, 2016). Becoming infected with this bacterium leads to symptoms of diarrhea, bloating, belly pain, and occasionally fevers. The growing prevalence, antibiotic resistance associated …

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (Gerd), Kaitlyn Newkirk

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a commonly diagnosed disease process, affecting nearly 20% of the population. GERD can greatly hinder one’s quality of life. “Routine” surgical procedures can become potentially life threatening to those affected by this disease. Gastroesophageal reflux disease can lead to Barrett’s esophagus, and esophageal malignancy. The advance practice nurse is responsible for accurately diagnosing a patient with GERD to avoid these potentially fatal consequences. The APN must recognize and acknowledge risk factors for GERD, assisting the patient in altering modifiable risk factors. Treatment options must be individualized to each patient and may include solely medical management or …

Ards Pathophysiology, Lisa K. Bowman

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a condition that involves severe injury to the lung and was first identified during the Vietnam War. Continual research has been performed which has led to multiple treatment modalities. Some treatment modalities are viewed as controversial which proves that more research regarding ARDS needs completed in order to improve patient outcomes. Further education and investment in bedside interventions will continue to improve the clinical treatment and survival rates of affected patients.

Congestive Heart Failure (Chf), Kari Vance

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Heart failure affects almost six million Americans and is the leading cause of hospitalizations for patients older than 65 years, requiring more hospitalization than any type of cancer. Heart failure affects roughly two percent of the American population, and continues to be the most rapidly growing cardiac disease in the country (Parikh & Kadowitz, 2013). As stated, since this topic is of growing concern, and as our population ages, healthcare will continue to experience more patients experiencing heart failure as a condition. As clinicians manage patients with this condition, they will also have to consider the numerous other health factors …

Malignant Hyperthermia, Daniel Talbot

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Malignant Hyperthermia overview, signs and symptoms, pathophysiology, treatment, and implications for nursing care.

The Pathophysiology Of Acute Ischemic Stroke, Rahel Mitiku

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Abstract

This poster discusses the pathophysiology of Acute Ischemic Stroke (AIS) and the importance of timely intervention to minimize irreversible tissue damage. Ischemic stroke is characterized by the obstruction within a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain. The general population is not well informed as to the warning signs or symptoms of stroke, leading to substantial delays in emergency medical services. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of acute ischemic stroke in timely fashion is very important because the treatment window is very narrow. This author worked as a nurse at Interventional Radiology (IR); observing patients with AIS undergoing clot …

The Pathophysiological Process Of Sepsis, Stefane Adams

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Sepsis is a medical emergency and can be a life-threatening illness that results as a complication from a severe infection, which occurs when chemicals that have been released into the bloodstream by the body’s defense system work to fight off an infection (Mayo Clinic, 2016). Sepsis is one of the leading causes of deaths in patients in the hospital setting worldwide, becoming more common than breast and bowel cancer combined (Nursing Times, 2014). Sepsis can affect anyone; however it is more common in the elderly or in individuals with weaker immune systems. Health care providers (HCPs) must fully understand this …

Eosinophilic Esophagitis, Jacqueline Hill

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Eosinophilic esophagitis is newer autoimmune disease recognized by healthcare providers. This poster will include information on the pathophysiology of the disease process, treatment, nursing considerations, sign and symptoms, and diagnostic criteria. Patients with eosinophilic esophagitis are often misdiagnosed for years before treatment is started. This poster is to spread awareness of the disease process.

Hiv/Aids, Rachel Muir

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a disease in which the virus attacks and depletes the CD4+ T cells leading to a weakened immune system in which a pMersin can no longer fight pathogens. This weakening of the person's immune system makes them more susceptible to opportunistic infections and malignancies (Coffin & Swanstrom, 2017). In the initial acute HIV infection period the person usually does not show symptoms but is highly infectious which can allow for transmission unknowingly (Center for Disease Control and PrevenBon, 2017). HIV can eventually progress to AIDS without treatment. Admission to the hospital can expose this person …

Pathophysiology Of Hiatal Hernia, Courtney Adams

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Hiatal hernia is a common disorder affecting almost half of the population. Gastroesophageal reflux is the main symptom of hiatal hernia. Being diagnosed with hiatal hernia has caused me to grow in the understanding of this condition, not only to help better educate myself but to educate others.

Diabetic Kidney Disease, Karen R. Hughes Dr

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

A poster project on Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD) formerly known as diabetic nephropathy which is the most common cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and death in patient with diabetes.

Ischemic Strokes, Jada Adams

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Stroke or cerebrovascular accident (CVA) is the third leading cause of death in the United States (Mvundura, McGruder, Khoury, Valdez, & Yoon, 2011). Ischemic strokes make up about 86% of the strokes that occur, (Patel, & White, 2011) hemorrhagic and cryptogenic strokes make up for the other 15%. The topic that is covered in this poster is ischemic stroke. The biggest way to alter the amount of strokes that happen are to prevent them. More and more risk factors are being found that contribute to strokes. Once the inflammatory and immune response begins once triggered by hypoxia it cannot be …

Pseudocholinesterase Deficiency: Implications In Anesthesia, Amanda Esselstein

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Pseudocholinesterase is an enzyme produced in the liver that metabolizes neuromuscular blocking agents, particularly succinylcholine. A deficiency in pseudocholinesterase is typically caused by either a homozygous or heterozygous abnormal genetic variant of the enzyme which leads to a prolonged neuromuscular block and therefore muscle paralysis. It is vital for anesthesia providers to know the mechanism of action and duration of succinylcholine, as well as appropriate assessment and treatment if a pseucholinesterase deficiency is suspected. There is no treatment for a pseudocholinesterase deficiency of a genetic origin, however supportive care, particularly ventilator support, must be provided until the medication has been …

Essential Hypertension In Adults, Elizabeth Oti

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

The author chose to write about hypertension because she takes care of patients and family members with hypertension on a frequent basis, and is likely to face the challenge of managing patients with hypertension (HTN) in her future role as a nurse practitioner due to the high prevalence of HTN among men and women.

The Pathophysiology Of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency And Copd, Melissa M. Miller

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the number one disease process treated in the Pulmonary Department at the Chalmers P. Wylie VA Ambulatory Care Center (VAACC). The medical staff includes doctors, nurses, and respiratory therapists. The team works together to ensure the veteran gets the best care available. Smoking is very popular in the military, and this puts veterans at a higher risk for COPD, compared to the general public. COPD can develop at a much younger age if the patient has alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD). Janciauskiene, Ferrotti, Laenger, Jonigk, and Luisetti (2011) point out that patients who develop COPD …

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Cardiovascular Pathophysiology, Jennifer L. Mullins

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease implicated in the premature onset of cardiovascular disease. SLE`s chronic activation of the immune system leads to inflammation, obstruction and vascular damage. The damage is most pronounced in SLE patients with a sedentary lifestyle and early onset of the disease. Understanding the pathogenesis, signs and symptoms of how SLE affects the cardiovascular system is important. Nurse practitioners play a vital role in the implementation of strategies to manage care and improve outcomes.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Cardiovascular Pathophysiology, Jennifer L. Mullins

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease implicated in the premature onset of cardiovascular disease. SLE`s chronic activation of the immune system leads to inflammation, obstruction and vascular damage. The damage is most pronounced in SLE patients with a sedentary lifestyle and early onset of the disease. Understanding the pathogenesis, signs and symptoms of how SLE affects the cardiovascular system is important. Nurse practitioners play a vital role in the implementation of strategies to manage care and improve outcomes.

Pathophysiology-Stevens-Johnson Syndrome/Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis, Douglas M. Klein

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

This poster examines recent research into genetic associations and emergent theories concerning the pathogenesis of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis.

Myocardial Infarction In Women Versus Men, Anna Day

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

As a future advance practice nurse (APN), it is important to recognize the symptoms of myocardial infarction (MI) and provide prompt treatment to patients to reduce morbidity and mortality. The worldwide leading cause of death is cardiovascular disease (CVD). In 2008, coronary heart disease (CHD) was the cause of 7.3 million deaths, while cerebrovascular disease was responsible for 6.2 million deaths. Since cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for women, it is imperative for the medical community to identify risk factors and seek an increased awareness of gender differences (Worrall-Carter et al., 2011). After myocardial infarction, 23% of …

Malignant Hyperthermia, Taylor M. Morriss

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Complications related to the anesthetic process are multifaceted and abundant. As a future nurse anesthesia student, the underlying pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of anesthesia-related complications are of particular interest. One such anesthesia-induced life-threatening metabolic process involves the hypermetabolism of skeletal muscle. This pharmacogenetic process, known as malignant hyperthermia (MH), has a variable incidence rate ranging from 1:10,000 to 1: 250,000 anesthetic cases. However, the prevalence of the genetic abnormalities may be as great as one in 400 individuals (Rosenberg, Pollock, Schiemann, Bulger, & Stowell, 2015, p. 1). “Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a rare, but life-threatening, autosomal-dominant inherited disorder that may …

Hypoxic Pulmonary Vasoconstriction, Miranda Shull

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

A poster project about Hypoxic Pulmonary Vasoconstriction.

Rhabdomyolysis- Diagnosis And Treatment, Ngonidzashe Chifamba

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Rhabdomyolysis is the dissolution of skeletal muscle caused by injury to skeletal muscle. It is a direct result of leakage of toxic cellular content into the blood stream. The most common cause of rhabdomyolysis is drug use, trauma, immobility, medicines and intense muscular exercise. The classic triad of rhabdomyolysis symptoms comprises the following symptoms; myalgias, generalized weakness and darkened urine. Pathophysiology of rhabdomyolysis involves an increase in free ionized calcium and sodium which draws water into the cell and disrupts the integrity of the intracellular milieu. Rhabdomyolysis can be life-threatening and disabling, having a clinician who knows how the syndrome …

Human Papilloma Virus-Related Cervical Dysplasia, Shaylyn D. Webster

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Among sexually active men and women, the human papilloma virus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. With more than 200 different genotypes of HPV known, there are more than 500,000 cases each year in the United States alone (Lowy, 2016). The virus is associated with nearly all cervical cancers, anal cancers, vaginal cancers, penile cancers, and head and neck cancers (Jorge & Wright, 2016). In women, the virus is capable of causing slow cellular changes on the cervix, and this dysplasia is graded based on severity (Jorge & Wright, 2016).

The statistics related to the prevalence …

Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Caused By A Ruptured Aneurysm, Stephanie L. Carroll Mrs.

Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)

Poster project on Subarachnoid Hemorrhage caused by a Ruptured Aneurysm.