Diabetic Gastroparesis,
2015
Otterbein University
Diabetic Gastroparesis, Noreen Burris Welch
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
According to the 2014 Centers for Disease Control (CDC) 9.3% of the United States Population have diabetes (National diabetes statistics report, “2014, p.1). One of the complications of diabetes is gastroparesis. Gastroparesis is “a delay in the emptying of ingested food in the absence of mechanical obstruction of the stomach or duodenum ‘’ (Koch & Calles-Escandon, 2015, p. 40). Mortality in the diabetic patient with gastroparesis is higher than the diabetic patient without gastroparesis (Koch & Calles-Escandon, 2015). Patients with either type 1 diabetes (T1DM) or type 2 diabetes (T2DM) may experience he clinical symptoms of early satiety, prolonged fullness, …
Sepsis & Emergency Management,
2015
Otterbein University
Sepsis & Emergency Management, Sharon Herndon
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening complication of an infection and a leading cause of death in the United States (Cawcutt & Peters, 2014). Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) to invading microorganisms. Sagy, Al-Qaquu, and Kim (2013) define sepsis in three categories. “Sepsis” would be defined as the presence of infection along with other general systemic signs and symptoms. “Severe Sepsis” would be defined as sepsis complicated by at least one organ dysfunction, and “Septic Shock” would be defined as severe sepsis with acute circulatory failure that may be characterized by persistent arterial hypotension unexplained by other causes. …
Dermatitis Herpetiformis,
2015
Otterbein University
Dermatitis Herpetiformis, Rachel Wolf
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
The main sign that accompanies DH is the eruption of intensely pruritic papulovesical lesions that typically present bilaterally on the elbows, knees, buttocks, neck, and scalp (Criado et al., 2012). They may appear on the upper back, abdomen, groin, and face as well. The lesions are small blisters that resemble those that are caused by the herpes simplex virus. By the time a patient seeks evaluation by a care provider, the lesions have often been scratched so much as to cause erosions, excoriation, and or crusted papules (Junkins-Hopkins, 2010). The surrounding area may have erythema and or urticarial plaques. Patients …
Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar State: A Diabetic Emergency,
2015
Otterbein University
Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar State: A Diabetic Emergency, Rachel Fisher
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS) is an acute complication associated with diabetes mellitus. HHS has been known by several other names in the past. These labels include Hyperosmolar Nonketotic Coma, Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic Nonketotic Coma, and Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Nonketotic Syndrome (Hackel, 2014). HHS is characterized by severe hyperglycemia, profound dehydration, and is often accompanied by altered mental status. Less than 1% of diabetes-related admissions are due to HHS, but mortality rates are estimated to be 10% to 20% (Lenahan & Holloway, 2015). HHS typically affects the older adult population, with the average age of HHS patients being 60 years (Collopy, Kivlehan, & …
The Pathophysiology Of Sepsis,
2015
Otterbein University
The Pathophysiology Of Sepsis, Rachel Hamilton
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
Sepsis is still a leading cause of hospital admissions and often leads to death if not identified early and treated properly (Pilcher, Cooper & Bellomo, 2015). In the US there are approximately 200,000 deaths annually due to sepsis (Puskarich, Illich, & Jones, 2014). It is important for advance practice nurses to recognize risk factors for sepsis. By understanding the pathophysiology of sepsis nurse practitioners will be able to recognize early signs and symptoms of this inflammatory disease process and implement early medical management. Early medical treatment in septic patients is crucial to increase patient survival rates.
Congenital Cytomegalovirus (Cmv),
2015
Otterbein University
Congenital Cytomegalovirus (Cmv), Patty Fleming
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common herpes virus infection that is usually harmless and belongs to a group of herpes viruses that includes the herpes simplex viruses, varicella-zoster virus (which causes chickenpox and shingles), and the Epstein-Barr virus (which causes infectious mononucleosis). Once CMV is in a person's body, it stays there throughout their life. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2010). CMV is shed in various bodily secretions, especially urine and saliva (Congenital Cytomegalovirus Foundation, 2014). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the majority of otherwise healthy children and adults infected with CMV are asymptomatic while …
Hashimoto’S Disease: The Underactive Thyroid Disease,
2015
Otterbein University
Hashimoto’S Disease: The Underactive Thyroid Disease, Patty Anderson
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
The thyroid gland is part of the endocrine system and has a widespread function that controls multiple organ systems and processes. The main function of the thyroid gland is to produce and secrete two different thyroid hormones: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), both of which help to meet the metabolic demands of the entire body. When the thyroid gland fails to produce T3/T4 hormones (primary gland failure) or is not activated successfully by the pituitary gland (by the release of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)), or hypothalamus, this results in low levels of circulating thyroid hormone. As low levels of the …
Sle And Pregnancy,
2015
Otterbein University
Sle And Pregnancy, Patricia Graham
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a life-long, life-threatening autoimmune disease which can affect any organ in the body (Marks & Tullus, 2011). SLE disproportionately affects women in a ratio of 9:1 compared to men with most women being affected during child-bearing age (15-50 years) (Ferenkeh-Koroma, 2012). Pregnancy represents a challenge for the patient with SLE. Pregnant patients with SLE are considered high-risk for multiple medical and obstetric complications, as flares are related to increased irreversible organ damage (Ateka- Barrutia & Khamashta, 2013). Severe flares are also associated with poor fetal outcomes (Peart & Clowse, 2014). Successful pregnancies happen in 67% …
Effects Of Enhanced External Counter Pulsation Therapy On Patients With Angina,
2015
Otterbein University
Effects Of Enhanced External Counter Pulsation Therapy On Patients With Angina, Valerie Jones
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
According to the literature, coronary heart disease (CHD) is responsible for 370,000 deaths annually in the United States (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2015). A symptom commonly associated with CHD is angina (US Department of Health & Human Services, National Institute of Health, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [NIH], 2011). An estimated 300,000 to 900,000 patients in the United States have refractory angina pectoris (RAP), with nearly 100,00 new cases diagnosed yearly (Manchanda, Aggarwal, Aggarwal, & Soran, 2011). Kones describes refractory angina as continued angina class III/IV, in the nonsurgical candidate, with objective evidence of ischemia despite …
Understanding Bipolar Disorder,
2015
Otterbein University
Understanding Bipolar Disorder, Tisha Perreira
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
According to McCance, Huether, and Brashers (2014), bipolar disorder is classified as bipolar I and bipolar II mood disorder. Bipolar I disorder, causes extreme mood swings of mania or hypomania (emotional highs) or emotional lows (depression). Manic disorder symptoms include: excessive risky activities, irritable mood, elevated mood, distractibility, excessive talking, inflated self-esteem, racing/crowded thoughts, decreased need for sleep, and increase in goal-directed activity. Symptoms of depression include: loss of interest/pleasure, weight gain or loss, fatigue/loss of energy, feeling of worthlessness or excessive guilt, depressed/irritable mood, recent thoughts of death/suicide, insomnia/or hypersomnia, poor concentration/indecisiveness, and psychomotor agitation. Bipolar II disorder has …
Rhabdomyolysis – Understanding The Mechanics,
2015
Otterbein University
Rhabdomyolysis – Understanding The Mechanics, Tawnya Tucker
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
As a hospital healthcare provider on a Medical/Surgical Unit the probability of examining and treating a patient diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis is scarce. Knowing the mechanics of the disease will assist the provider in evaluating and treating the patient. Awareness of the pathophysiology of the disease is vital in accurately diagnosing and treating the disease. The role of the advanced practice nurse is fundamental in distinguishing possible causes of the phenomenon by recognizing signs and symptoms that occur with the disease. Completing a thorough physical exam on the patient and obtaining special lab tests will assist in identifying the ailment. Treating …
Paradoxical Vocal Fold Motion,
2015
Otterbein University
Paradoxical Vocal Fold Motion, Stephen Sherer
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
Paradoxical vocal fold motion (PVFM), otherwise known as vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) is an abnormal degree the vocal folds adduct upon inspiration causing airflow narrowing. This restriction can cause severe dyspnea and can be misdiagnosed as asthma. The cause of the abnormality related to PVFM has not been directly recognized, but multiple factors or triggers are associated. It is this lack of clarity and association with asthma, exercise, extubation, stress, and gastric reflux that I take interest in this pathology. I have a personal connection with exercise induced asthma. In addition, my sister in-law was recently diagnosed with VCD who …
Implications Of Underlying Pathophysiology Of Osteomyelitis In Diabetics For Nursing Care,
2015
Otterbein University
Implications Of Underlying Pathophysiology Of Osteomyelitis In Diabetics For Nursing Care, Danielle Spencer
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone caused by either bacteria, fungi, parasites, viruses or mycobacteria (McCance, et. al., 2014). The infection can enter bone either through an outside source or through the blood from a blood borne infection (McCance, et. al., 2014). The most common bacteria involved with osteomyelitis is Staphylococcus aureus (Hatzenbuehler & Pulling, 2011, p. 1027). Recently, at Dublin Methodist Hospital there has been an increase in the number of osteomyelitis cases in chronic uncontrolled diabetic patients requiring below the knee amputations. Two of the cases specifically were linked to chronic diabetic foot ulcers. Each of these …
The Pathology Of Heart Failure,
2015
Otterbein University
The Pathology Of Heart Failure, Kevin Ahman
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
The topic I have chosen to research is heart failure. I have chosen this topic because I have treated many patients in the ICU with this condition, and find it an interesting pathology. Heart failure affects a significant portion of the patient population, and the rates are increasing. 5.1 million Americans ≥20 years of age have heart failure, projections show that by 2030, the prevalence of HF will increase 25% from 2013 estimates. At 40 years of age, the lifetime risk of developing HF for both men and women is 1 in 5. At 80 years of age, remaining lifetime …
Clostridium Difficile,
2015
Otterbein University
Clostridium Difficile, Kristen Johnson
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
Clostridium difficile (CD) is an infectious disease that has a direct impact on our healthcare resources. “Clostridium difficile, an anaerobic, spore forming, toxin-forming, gram-positive bacillus, has become the leading cause of health care—associated infectious diarrhea (Walters & Zuckerbraun, 2014, p. 329).” I chose this topic because CD is a hypervirulent organism that is not only affecting hospitalized patients but is now emerging as a community acquired infection. Healthcare treatments and costs are on the rise due to persistent and recurrent CD infections. Understanding the pathogenesis, risk factors, diagnostic testing, and management strategies are important in reducing the spread of CD …
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder,
2015
Otterbein University
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Zachary Packard
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can occur after witnessing or experiencing a terrifying event (Mayo Clinic, 2015). PTSD can manifest in a variety of symptoms including, nightmares, flashbacks, insomnia, irritability, and anger (Mayo Clinic, 2015). The extended combat engagement in Afghanistan and Iraq have caused many casualties for American service members, both physically and mentally. The Veterans Affairs (VA) stated that 476,515 people sought treatment for PTSD in 2011 alone (Veteran Affairs, 2014). The veterans returning home from combat require adequate services to support their transition to civilian life. Barriers may exist for those members with PTSD symptoms seeking treatment. The …
Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy,
2015
Otterbein University
Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy, Angela J. Occidental
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is a rare, reversible form of cardiomyopathy. First cases of takotsubo cardiomyopathy were described in Japan, twenty years ago (Milinis, & Fisher, 2012). takotsubo cardiomyopathy is a transient left ventricular dysfunction, typically triggered by severe emotional or physical distress. Left ventricular ballooning is characteristic of Takotsubo syndrome. Images of this ballooning resemble a takotsubo vessel used in Japan for collecting octopus, thus the reason for the syndrome name (Pelliccia, et. al, 2014). In recent years, this cardiomyopathy has been described as “Broken heart syndrome” because severe emotional stress has been implicated as the cause of this cardiomyopathy in …
Investigating Duchenne’S Muscular Dystrophy,
2015
Otterbein University
Investigating Duchenne’S Muscular Dystrophy, Ashley Beaujon
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
Young boys usually present with disordered or delayed motor development, muscle weakness, and possible speech delays in early childhood (Ruiten et al, 2014). The first symptoms almost always show up prior to the age of six years. Parents may notice their young child with DMD having a hard time standing up, walking, or climbing stairs, and many will eventually need a wheelchair to get around (Brennan, 2014). Initial blood tests obtained are remarkable for an elevated creatine kinase (CK) and then diagnosis is typically confirmed with a genetic test showing a mutation in the dystrophin gene (Ruiten et al, 2014). …
Acute Pancreatitis,
2015
Otterbein University
Acute Pancreatitis, Laura Skidmore
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
Acute pancreatitis (AP) can be a singular incidence, a relapsing process or exacerbations of chronic pancreatitis. AP is a rapidly developing inflammatory disorder of the pancreas and can affect other organ systems. The process begins when pancreatic enzymes are activated prematurely and leak into surrounding tissue. The digestive process begins before reaching the intestines. AP is characterized clinically by abdominal pain and elevated levels of pancreatic enzymes in the blood. The pathogenesis is not fully understood however, a number of conditions are known to induce the disorder such as gallstones and chronic alcohol abuse (Schub & Kornusky, 2014)
Cardiac Tamponade,
2015
Otterbein University
Cardiac Tamponade, Ashley Miner
Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
The topic the author chose to research is cardiac tamponade. Cardiac tamponade occurs when fluid builds up in the pericardial cavity, which is the cavity that surrounds the heart. Cardiac tamponade can occur due to various reasons, including myocardial infarctions, pericarditis, traumas, and placement of pacer wires. Palpitations, chest pain, and shortness of breath are common symptoms that occur with cardiac tamponade. Pericardiocentesis and a pericardial window are two interventions that are commonly used to treat cardiac tamponade. Cardiac tamponade is a medical emergency and without any intervention, may lead to cardiac arrest and possible death. The author chose cardiac …
