Key Definitions

Core Nursing Concepts, Ethics, and Professional Standards

1. ABC Prioritization: A structured method to address critical conditions starting with airway, followed by breathing and circulation, especially in urgent situations.
2. ADPIE Framework: A step-by-step process used by nurses to deliver care—from collecting data to evaluating outcomes.
3. Practice Boundaries: Rules that outline what LPNs are authorized to do legally; may differ by state or licensing board.
4. Patient Self-Determination: Respecting an individual’s freedom to make informed healthcare choices.
5. Doing What’s Best (Beneficence): Providing care that promotes patient well-being and supports recovery.
6. Avoiding Harm (Nonmaleficence): Taking precautions to prevent injury or unnecessary suffering.
7. Fairness in Care (Justice): Offering unbiased access to treatment and services to all patients.
8. Keeping Commitments (Fidelity): Staying honest and loyal in nursing responsibilities and promises.
9. Consent with Understanding: Ensuring the patient agrees to a procedure only after knowing the full details, including risks.
10. Planning Ahead (Advance Directives): Documents that let patients state their healthcare choices before they’re unable to decide.
11. Treatment Preferences (Living Will): A written outline of what medical interventions a terminally ill patient does or does not want.
12. Healthcare Proxy: A trusted individual selected to speak on the patient’s behalf when they can’t make medical decisions.
13. HIPAA Compliance: Following federal laws to secure patient confidentiality and control over their health records.
14. Required Disclosure (Mandatory Reporting): Legal duty to notify authorities of suspected abuse or neglect involving vulnerable individuals.
15. Assigning Responsibilities (Delegation): Allowing another trained team member, like a UAP, to carry out specific tasks under supervision.
16. Safe Delegation Standards: Ensuring delegation meets criteria for task appropriateness, context, training, clarity, and oversight.
17. Unusual Event Record (Incident Report): A confidential form used to record events like errors or injuries in a clinical setting.
18. Navigating Moral Conflicts (Ethical Dilemma): A challenging choice between two or more ethical principles needing thoughtful judgment.
19. Professional Misconduct (Malpractice): Failing to meet care standards resulting in harm, requiring proof of negligence and damage.
20. Carelessness in Practice (Negligence): Not performing duties as a reasonable nurse would, potentially causing harm.
21. Emergency Protection (Good Samaritan Law): Legal coverage for off-duty caregivers who help in emergencies within their training limits.
22. Ongoing System Improvements (Quality Improvement): Efforts aimed at refining healthcare processes and boosting patient safety.
23. Best Practice Integration (Evidence-Based Practice): Combining current research, expert judgment, and patient input to guide care.
24. Escalation Path (Chain of Command): A structured approach for addressing unresolved clinical concerns by reporting to higher authority.
25. Multi-State License (Nurse Licensure Compact): A shared licensing model that allows nurses to work in other compact states legally.

Essential Clinical Practices & Infection Prevention

26. Universal Safety Practices: Basic protective measures applied to every patient interaction—such as handwashing and glove use—to reduce the risk of infection.
27. Specific Isolation Techniques: Tailored infection control steps (e.g., contact, droplet, airborne) based on how a disease spreads.
28. Barrier Methods for Contact Risks: Use of gloves and gowns to prevent transmission through direct or indirect touch (e.g., with MRSA, VRE, or C. difficile).
29. Droplet Defense Measures: Use of masks and eye coverings when caring for patients who spread illness through respiratory droplets (e.g., flu, pertussis).
30. Airborne Control Strategies: Specialized precautions like N95 masks and isolated airflow rooms to stop the spread of airborne illnesses (e.g., TB, measles).
31. Clean Hands Protocol: Washing hands with soap or using sanitizer for infection prevention—20 seconds is the standard rule.
32. Aseptic Conditions: Maintaining environments or procedures that reduce or eliminate harmful microorganisms (either by disinfection or full sterilization).
33. Germ-Free Work Zone: A sterile setup where instruments and supplies are kept completely clean—outer inch of the field is not considered sterile.
34. Protective Gear (PPE): Equipment worn to avoid exposure to bodily fluids or pathogens—includes masks, gowns, gloves, and face shields.
35. Sharp Object Disposal Safety: Dispose of needles in puncture-resistant containers and never recap used sharps.
36. Infectious Waste Handling: Proper disposal methods for contaminated items such as bloodied dressings or bodily fluid-soaked materials.
37. Facility-Acquired Infections: Infections picked up during a hospital stay or procedure (not present at admission).
38. Central Line Infection Risk: Bloodstream infections caused by central IV lines—prevention includes full sterile setup during insertion and care.
39. Catheter-Linked Urinary Infections: Infections tied to urinary catheter use—can be minimized by proper technique and hygiene.
40. Post-Surgical Wound Infection: Contamination or infection around the incision site—preventable with sterile handling and possible antibiotic use.
41. Systemic Infection Response (Sepsis): Body’s extreme and harmful reaction to infection—requires urgent recognition of early signs like fever, low BP, or confusion.
42. C. difficile Risk: Bacteria causing diarrhea after antibiotics, requiring contact isolation and handwashing with soap.
43. Flu Virus Care: Droplet-spread illness; preventable with vaccines and managed using proper mask use.
44. Proper PPE Application Sequence: Recommended order—put on gown first, then mask, followed by goggles or shield, and finally gloves.
45. Correct PPE Removal Order: Take off gloves first, then eye protection, gown next, and mask last to avoid contamination.
46. Signage for Infection Control: Posters or visual alerts placed at patient doors to indicate required PPE or isolation rules.
47. Airflow-Controlled Isolation Room: Specialized rooms that pull contaminated air inward to prevent disease escape—used for airborne infections.
48. Disease Resistance Mechanism (Immunity): The body’s ability to recognize and fight infections—can be acquired naturally or through medical means.
49. Preventive Immunization: Vaccines trigger immune protection against specific diseases (like MMR or hepatitis B).
50. Hepatitis B Immunization: Strongly advised for healthcare professionals to guard against occupational exposure to HBV.

Observation Techniques & Vital Measurements

51. Basic Physiological Checks: Common indicators of health status include temperature, heart rate, breathing rate, blood pressure, pain level, and often oxygen levels.
52. Postural Blood Pressure Drop: A sudden fall in BP when moving between positions, increasing the likelihood of feeling lightheaded or falling.
53. Heart Rate at the Apex: Listening over the fifth intercostal space along the midclavicular line for a full minute—especially before giving heart medications like digoxin.
54. Breathing Rate: In adults, a normal range is around 12–20 breaths per minute; assess for irregular patterns or shallow breathing.
55. Arterial Pressure Reading: Blood pressure is recorded as systolic over diastolic values, with under 120/80 mmHg generally considered ideal.
56. Oxygen Monitoring: A non-invasive device estimates how much oxygen is bound to hemoglobin; typical levels are between 95% and 100%.
57. Evaluating Pain Levels: Considered a routine check; rating systems (like number scales or facial expressions) help track pain consistently.
58. Full-Body Review: A step-by-step physical evaluation of all major body systems, starting from the head and ending with the feet.
59. Nervous System Screening: Involves checking awareness, eye response to light, and motor/sensory abilities.
60. Consciousness Rating Tool (GCS): A scoring system to assess how well a person responds by speaking, opening eyes, or moving.
61. Skin Elasticity Check: Used to assess hydration status—delayed skin rebound may suggest fluid deficit.
62. Swelling Grading: Puffy tissue from fluid buildup is graded based on how deep and long the indentation lasts.
63. Cap Refill Test: Press on a nailbed and watch for color return in under 2 seconds—delays may indicate circulation issues.
64. Digestive Sounds: Listen in each abdominal section to assess bowel activity—can be overly active, reduced, or silent.
65. Respiratory Sound Types: Use a stethoscope to identify abnormal lung noises like wheezes, crackles, or stridor.
66. Heartbeat Characteristics: First and second heart sounds mark valve closures; extra beats might signal cardiovascular problems.
67. Fingertip Rounding (Clubbing): A visible sign of long-term oxygen deprivation, often linked to chronic respiratory issues.
68. Lying-Down Breath Difficulty: Some patients feel short of breath when flat; often seen in heart failure or lung disease.
69. Elevated Sitting Positions: High, semi, or low Fowler’s positioning is used to help with breathing or overall comfort.
70. Steps in Physical Assessment: Observe, feel, tap, and listen—though for abdominal exams, listening comes right after looking.
71. Pain Descriptions: Words like sharp, throbbing, or burning help pinpoint the likely source or type of discomfort.
72. Limb Pulse Checks: Assess circulation by palpating major arteries like the radial or dorsalis pedis.
73. Consistent Daily Weighing: Helps track fluid changes, especially in patients with conditions like kidney or heart failure.
74. Fluid Tracking (I&O): Measures liquid intake and urine output—minimum normal urine is about 1 mL per kilogram per hour.
75. Problem-Specific Checkup: A narrowed assessment focused on one body system or symptom—such as checking lung status in pneumonia cases.

Drug Delivery & Dosage Understanding

76. Key Principles for Giving Medications: Ensure correct identity, medication, strength, method, timing, and recordkeeping.
77. Medication Review Process: Compare what the patient is currently taking with new prescriptions to catch discrepancies.
78. Medications Requiring Vigilance: Certain drugs like insulin or anticoagulants carry higher risk and demand double-checking.
79. Similar Drug Names: Medications that resemble each other in name or sound can lead to mistakes—double-check labels.
80. Digestive Tract Routes: Includes oral and tube-based routes; consider absorption and swallowing ability.
81. Injection-Based Routes: Delivering drugs via needle (e.g., IV, IM) avoids the digestive system entirely.
82. Manual IV Flow Rate Math: Use the formula (volume × drop factor) ÷ minutes to get drops per minute.
83. IV Pump Rate Setting: Divide total milliliters by total hours to program hourly fluid delivery.
84. Medication Dose Calculation: Use (desired dose ÷ amount available) × volume to figure out how much to give.
85. Calculating Doses Using BSA: A method often used for kids or cancer patients, based on weight and height.
86. IM Injection Locations: Common sites include shoulder (deltoid), hip (ventrogluteal), and thigh (vastus lateralis).
87. Subcutaneous Injection Areas: Fatty areas like the belly or upper arm; rotate locations to avoid irritation.
88. Z-Track IM Technique: Used for drugs that can stain or irritate, this method helps keep medication in the muscle.
89. IV Drug Mixing Safety: Before combining IV medications, ensure they won’t react or cancel each other out.
90. Self-Controlled Pain Management: With PCA devices, patients manage their own pain relief—nurses watch for sedation and breathing issues.
91. How Drugs Move Through the Body: Refers to how drugs are absorbed, spread, broken down, and eliminated.
92. Liver’s Role in Oral Drug Breakdown: Some oral meds are metabolized by the liver before entering circulation, which may lessen their effect.
93. Safe Medication Range: A narrow therapeutic window means drug levels need to be checked closely to avoid overdose or ineffectiveness.
94. Drug Level Monitoring: Peaks show how high drug levels go; troughs show the lowest level before the next dose.
95. Gradual Dose Adjustments: Titration helps reach a precise effect by carefully increasing or decreasing the dose.
96. Mixing Two Types of Insulin: Draw up short-acting insulin first (clear) before longer-acting (cloudy) to avoid mixing errors.
97. Heparin IV Monitoring: Watch activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT); reverse effects with protamine sulfate if needed.
98. Warfarin Therapy Monitoring: Check PT/INR levels (typically 2–3); use vitamin K if bleeding occurs.
99. Opioid Safety Considerations: Monitor for slowed breathing or drowsiness; naloxone is used for overdose reversal.
100. Low Blood Sugar Response: If blood glucose is under 70 mg/dL, give quick carbs if alert or IV glucose if not responsive.

Medication Classes & Individual Drugs

101. NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen, Naproxen): Used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation; monitor for stomach ulcers and kidney strain.
102. Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Lowers fever and pain; limit to 3–4 g/day due to risk of liver injury.
103. Beta-Blockers (e.g., Metoprolol): Lower blood pressure and heart rate; can conceal low blood sugar signs and affect breathing in some.
104. ACE Inhibitors (e.g., Lisinopril): Promote vessel relaxation; may cause dry cough, increased potassium, or rare swelling.
105. Calcium Channel Blockers (e.g., Amlodipine, Diltiazem): Manage hypertension; may lead to slow heart rate or fluid retention in extremities.
106. Diuretics: Loop (Furosemide), Thiazide (HCTZ), Potassium-sparing (Spironolactone); help fluid removal—monitor for salt and potassium changes.
107. Digoxin: Strengthens heartbeats and slows rate; toxicity signs include vision disturbances and a low pulse.
108. Insulin Types: Rapid to long-acting forms vary in timing; all carry low blood sugar risk.
109. Oral Diabetes Meds: Metformin (monitor for lactic acid buildup), sulfonylureas (watch for blood sugar drops).
110. Levothyroxine (Synthroid): Treats underactive thyroid; take before food to improve absorption.
111. Antithyroid Meds (Methimazole, PTU): Treat overactive thyroid; check for reduced white blood cells.
112. Steroids (Prednisone): Used for inflammation; may raise blood sugar, reduce immunity, weaken bones.
113. Antibiotics: Each class (e.g., penicillins, fluoroquinolones) has distinct risks like allergies or GI upset.
114. Antiviral (Acyclovir): Treats herpes virus infections; assess kidney health during use.
115. Antifungal (Fluconazole): Used for fungal infections; can affect liver and interact with other medications.
116. Bronchodilators (Albuterol, Ipratropium): Open airways in asthma/COPD; can increase heart rate and cause shakiness.
117. Inhaled Steroids (Fluticasone): Help prevent airway inflammation; rinse mouth to avoid fungal growth.
118. Antipsychotics: First-gen (e.g., Haloperidol) and newer types (e.g., Risperidone); monitor for movement issues and metabolic changes.
119. SSRIs (e.g., Sertraline, Fluoxetine): Help manage mood disorders; can affect libido and risk serotonin overload.
120. Benzodiazepines (e.g., Lorazepam, Diazepam): Calming medications; may lead to sedation and habit formation.
121. Lithium: Stabilizes mood in bipolar disorder; monitor closely due to tight therapeutic window and potential toxicity.
122. Parkinson’s Drug (Levodopa-Carbidopa): Replaces dopamine; watch for abnormal movements and dizziness.
123. Cancer Medications: Can reduce white cells, cause nausea, and lead to hair loss.
124. Epinephrine: Emergency use for allergic reactions; rapidly raises heart rate and opens airways.
125. Naloxone (Narcan): Counteracts opioid overdose; can trigger severe withdrawal symptoms if dependence is present.

Fluids & Electrolytes (Modified)

126. Intracellular Fluid (ICF): Located inside cells; makes up the majority of total body water.
127. Extracellular Fluid (ECF): Found outside cells, includes fluid in blood vessels and tissues.
128. Hypovolemia: Reduced fluid in the bloodstream due to loss or lack of intake.
129. Hypervolemia: Fluid overload in the body, which may lead to swelling or lung congestion.
130. Isotonic Fluids: Match blood concentration; used to maintain fluid balance (e.g., normal saline, lactated Ringer’s).
131. Hypotonic Fluids: Have fewer solutes than blood; shift fluid into cells (e.g., half-normal saline).
132. Hypertonic Fluids: More concentrated than body fluid; draw water out of cells (e.g., 3% saline).
133. Sodium (Na+): Normal 135–145 mEq/L; controls extracellular water movement.
134. Hyponatremia: Sodium below normal; may present with confusion, cramps, or seizures.
135. Hypernatremia: Elevated sodium; may cause restlessness, dry mouth, and thirst.
136. Potassium (K+): Normal 3.5–5.0 mEq/L; essential for nerves and heart rhythm.
137. Low Potassium (Hypokalemia): Can lead to irregular heartbeat and muscle fatigue; loop diuretics are a risk factor.
138. High Potassium (Hyperkalemia): May cause ECG changes and dangerous heart rhythms.
139. Calcium (Ca2+): Normal ~8.5–10.5 mg/dL; supports bone strength and neuromuscular activity.
140. Low Calcium (Hypocalcemia): Causes muscle twitching, spasms, and possible seizures.
141. High Calcium (Hypercalcemia): Associated with tiredness, bone discomfort, and possible kidney stones.
142. Magnesium (Mg2+): Normal ~1.3–2.1 mEq/L; helps regulate muscle and nerve responses.
143. Low Magnesium (Hypomagnesemia): May trigger seizures, twitching, and heart disturbances.
144. High Magnesium (Hypermagnesemia): Can lead to sluggish reflexes, drowsiness, and breathing trouble.
145. Phosphorus (Ph): Works inversely with calcium; critical for energy and cell function.
146. Acid-Base Regulation: pH 7.35–7.45; CO₂ ~35–45 mmHg; bicarbonate ~22–26 mEq/L.
147. Respiratory Acidosis: CO₂ retention due to shallow breathing; improved by enhancing ventilation.
148. Respiratory Alkalosis: CO₂ drops from rapid breathing; managed by calming breathing rate.
149. Metabolic Acidosis: Acid buildup or bicarbonate loss (e.g., in DKA); may require buffer replacement.
150. Metabolic Alkalosis: Excess bicarbonate often from vomiting or fluid loss; correct electrolyte balance.

Lab Tests & Interpretation (Modified)

151. CBC (Complete Blood Count): Analyzes red and white cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and clotting cells.
152. Hemoglobin (Hgb): ~12–16 g/dL (F), 14–18 g/dL (M); oxygen-carrying protein in red cells.
153. Hematocrit (Hct): ~37–47% (F), 42–52% (M); proportion of red blood cells in plasma.
154. White Blood Cells (WBC): ~4,000–11,000/μL; increase during infection, decrease in immune suppression.
155. Platelets: ~150,000–400,000/μL; aid in clotting—too low increases bleeding risk.
156. Differential Count: Breaks down WBCs into types (e.g., neutrophils, lymphocytes); helps identify causes of infection or inflammation.
157. BMP (Basic Metabolic Panel): Measures key electrolytes, kidney waste levels, and glucose.
158. BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen): ~7–20 mg/dL; rises in dehydration or poor kidney filtering.
159. Creatinine: ~0.6–1.2 mg/dL; better gauge of kidney filtration than BUN.
160. Liver Panel (LFTs): Includes enzymes and proteins to assess liver condition.
161. AST & ALT: Enzymes that rise with liver tissue injury or disease.
162. Bilirubin: Elevation points to liver dysfunction or red cell breakdown; may lead to yellowing skin.
163. Albumin: Protein made by liver; low levels cause swelling and may reflect malnutrition or liver disease.
164. Clotting Tests: Include PT, INR, aPTT, and platelet levels; monitor bleeding risk or effectiveness of anticoagulants.
165. PT/INR: Used to evaluate warfarin therapy; INR goal often 2–3 for treatment.
166. aPTT: Monitors heparin; therapeutic range typically 1.5 to 2.5 times the baseline.
167. Troponin (I or T): Key marker of heart muscle damage; rises quickly after an MI.
168. CK-MB: Former MI marker; now used less often due to troponin’s higher specificity.
169. BNP (B-type Natriuretic Peptide): High levels signal heart strain or failure.
170. ABG (Arterial Blood Gas): Evaluates pH, oxygenation, and acid-base balance in blood.
171. Urinalysis: Examines urine for signs of infection, glucose, protein, or kidney damage.
172. Specific Gravity (Urine): ~1.010–1.025; indicates urine concentration and hydration.
173. Ketones in Urine: Suggest fat breakdown—common in DKA or starvation.
174. Urine Culture: Grows and identifies bacteria causing urinary tract infections.
175. GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate): Normal >90 mL/min; <60 suggests kidney dysfunction, <15 is failure stage.

Perioperative & Safety (Modified)

176. Preoperative Preparation: Verifies patient readiness: informed consent, fasting status, labs reviewed, surgical site marked.
177. During Surgery Role: Support sterile conditions, assist with instruments, monitor patient condition.
178. PACU (Recovery Area): Focus on airway, vital signs, pain level, sedation effects, and signs of bleeding.
179. Malignant Hyperthermia: Genetic disorder triggered by anesthesia; causes severe muscle tightening and fever—treat urgently with dantrolene.
180. After-Surgery Risks: Watch for bleeding, clots, lung collapse, infections, or intestinal slowdown.
181. Wound Opening (Dehiscence): The surgical incision reopens partially or fully.
182. Wound Complication (Evisceration): Internal organs push through wound; cover with moist dressing and get immediate help.
183. Incentive Spirometer Use: Encourages full lung expansion to reduce lung-related complications.
184. Preventing Blood Clots: Promote walking, use compression devices, apply support stockings, and give anticoagulants as needed.
185. Time-Out Protocol: Final step before surgery—confirm identity, procedure, and location.
186. RACE (Fire Response): Steps in fire emergency: Remove, Alert, Contain, Evacuate or Extinguish.
187. PASS (Extinguisher Use): Four steps to operate fire extinguisher—Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep.
188. Preventing Falls: Ensure environment is safe—use grippy socks, call bell access, alarms, and remove hazards.
189. Restraint Policy: Only used when necessary; needs doctor’s order and close observation for patient safety.
190. Safe Lifting Techniques: Keep knees bent, load near the body, and use legs for power.
191. Workplace Ergonomics: Set up work environment to minimize physical strain and improve safety.
192. Emergency Triage: Classify patients by urgency—immediate (red), delayed (yellow), minimal (green), or expectant (black).
193. Bioterrorism Threats: Include serious infectious agents—proper isolation and PPE are essential.
194. Poison Response: Contact poison center right away for accidental ingestion or toxic exposure.
195. Code Blue Response: Emergency for heart or breathing stop—initiate CPR and use defibrillator.
196. Seizure Safety Measures: Keep padded rails up, position patient on side, and have suction ready.
197. Sentinel Event Reporting: Must report unexpected events causing serious harm or death.
198. Wandering/Elopement Risk: Provide secure area for patients who may leave without supervision.
199. Behavioral Sedation (Chemical Restraints): Drugs used to limit activity; requires regular assessment for safety.
200. HIPAA Breaches: Any release of patient information without permission—whether intentional or accidental.

Maternal-Newborn Basics (Modified)

201. Gravida vs. Para: Gravida counts all pregnancies; Para refers to births at or beyond viability, regardless of outcome.
202. GTPAL System: Used to summarize reproductive history: number of pregnancies, full-term and early births, pregnancy losses, and living offspring.
203. Fetal Heart Monitoring: Normal range is 110–160 bpm; drops in rate may signal fetal compromise.
204. Measuring Fundal Height: Distance in centimeters from pubic bone to top of uterus helps estimate fetal age in weeks.
205. Prenatal Testing: Routine checks include blood counts, Rh status, infection screening, and GBS test in late pregnancy.
206. Signs of Preeclampsia: High blood pressure plus protein in urine after mid-pregnancy; may be accompanied by visual issues and headaches.
207. Eclampsia Risk: Severe hypertension with seizures; magnesium is used to reduce seizure activity.
208. Diabetes During Pregnancy: Temporary glucose intolerance; requires blood sugar tracking and possibly insulin.
209. Placenta Previa Concern: Placenta obstructs cervix, often causing painless vaginal bleeding; avoid internal exams.
210. Abrupt Placental Separation: Painful bleeding from placental detachment; can be life-threatening for mother and baby.
211. Labor Phases: Includes dilation, delivery of infant, delivery of placenta, and postpartum stabilization.
212. Lochia Phases: Vaginal discharge after birth progresses from red to pink to white as healing occurs.
213. Heavy Postpartum Bleeding: Defined by excessive blood loss; relaxed uterus is the main contributor.
214. Newborn APGAR Check: Assesses physical condition at 1 and 5 minutes using five criteria (color, heart rate, reflexes, tone, breathing).
215. Infant Reflexes: Involuntary movements like rooting and Moro reflect neurological development.
216. Maintaining Newborn Temperature: Prevent heat escape through exposure or cool surfaces by swaddling and drying.
217. Breast Milk Feeding: Feed baby frequently, starting with nutrient-rich colostrum and transitioning to mature milk.
218. Bottle Feeding Safety: Mix formula accurately; avoid propping bottles to reduce choking risk.
219. Infant Jaundice: Yellowing from elevated bilirubin; phototherapy helps lower levels if too high.
220. RhoGAM Protection: Given to Rh-negative mothers to prevent immune reaction against baby’s Rh-positive cells.
221. Post-Baby Mood Changes: Depression that continues beyond normal adjustment period may require treatment.
222. Skin-to-Skin Holding: Encourages bonding, helps regulate baby’s warmth and vital signs.
223. Macrosomic Newborn: Weighs over 4000–4500g at birth; often linked to maternal glucose issues.
224. Premature Birth Risks: Babies born early may have underdeveloped lungs, trouble keeping warm, and feeding issues.
225. Cord Care Tips: Keep stump dry and exposed; it typically detaches naturally in one to two weeks.

Pediatric & Growth/Development

226. Erikson’s Psychosocial Stages: Trust vs. Mistrust (infancy), Autonomy vs. Doubt (toddlers), Initiative vs. Guilt (preschoolers), Industry vs. Inferiority (school-age children), Identity vs. Role Confusion (teenagers).
227. Piaget’s Stages of Cognitive Development: Sensorimotor, Preoperational, Concrete Operational, Formal Operational.
228. Immunization Timeline: Adheres to CDC recommendations; includes vaccines like DTaP, Polio, MMR, Varicella.
229. Routine Child Health Visits: Track growth percentiles, developmental progress, and immunization status.
230. Failure to Thrive: Insufficient growth or inability to properly use calories; causes can be physical or psychosocial.
231. Pediatric Dehydration Signs: Sunken soft spots (fontanelles), lack of tears, dry mouth, weight decline.
232. Croup (Laryngotracheobronchitis): Characteristic harsh, barking cough and noisy breathing; usually viral; treatment involves humidified air and sometimes steroids.
233. Epiglottitis: Life-threatening bacterial infection (often Hib); presents with drooling and leaning forward posture; avoid throat examination without caution.
234. Bronchiolitis (often RSV): Affects infants under 2 years; care is supportive including hydration and clearing airways.
235. Chickenpox (Varicella): Itchy rash with small blisters; spread through airborne and contact routes; vaccine available.
236. Pertussis (Whooping Cough): Intense coughing spells; spread by droplets; preventable by DTaP or Tdap vaccine.
237. Gastroenteritis: Inflammation of stomach and intestines; children are at risk for dehydration.
238. Otitis Media: Ear infections common in toddlers; influenced by factors like short Eustachian tubes and daycare exposure.
239. Fifth Disease (Parvovirus B19): Causes “slapped cheek” appearance; mild in healthy kids but can be serious if immune-compromised.
240. Scabies: Mite infestation leading to severe itching; treatment with topical permethrin cream.
241. Down Syndrome: Chromosomal abnormality (trisomy 21) with distinct facial traits, low muscle tone, and developmental delays.
242. Cystic Fibrosis: Genetic disorder causing thick mucus buildup in lungs and pancreas; managed with high-calorie diet and pancreatic enzyme supplements.
243. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Long-term joint inflammation in children; treatment includes NSAIDs and physical activity.
244. Scoliosis: Sideways spinal curvature; managed with braces or surgery in severe cases.
245. ADHD: Characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness; behavioral therapy and stimulant medications are common treatments.
246. Signs of Child Abuse: Bruises in different healing stages, fearful reactions, inconsistent stories.
247. Temper Tantrums: Typical toddler reaction to frustration; best managed with clear boundaries and consistency.
248. Separation Anxiety: Frequent in infants and toddlers; comfort objects like blankets or toys can help.
249. Adolescent Growth Spurt: Period of rapid physical and hormonal changes; may lead to concerns about body image.
250. Development in School-Age Children: Focus on mastering skills and valuing peer relationships (Industry vs. Inferiority stage).

Mental Health & Psychosocial

251. Therapeutic Communication: Engaging with empathy through active listening, asking open-ended questions, and withholding judgment.
252. Defense Mechanisms: Psychological strategies like denial, repression, projection, and displacement used unconsciously to handle stress.
253. Stages of Grief (Kübler-Ross): Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, Acceptance.
254. Suicide Precautions: Remove dangerous items, maintain constant supervision if risk is high, use safety contracts if risk is moderate.
255. Depression: Ongoing sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, and changes in appetite or sleep patterns.
256. Bipolar Disorder: Alternating episodes of elevated mood (mania) and low mood (depression); mania involves increased energy, grandiose thoughts, and reduced need for sleep.
257. Schizophrenia: Chronic mental disorder with hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized speech or behavior.
258. Anxiety Disorders: Includes generalized anxiety, panic attacks, and phobias; physical symptoms can include rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and stomach upset.
259. PTSD: Persistent psychological distress after trauma, including flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance behaviors, and hyper-alertness.
260. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Recurrent intrusive thoughts (obsessions) coupled with repetitive behaviors (compulsions).
261. Substance Use Disorder: Continued use despite harmful consequences, with symptoms of withdrawal and dependency.
262. Alcohol Withdrawal: Symptoms include shaking, nervousness, fast heartbeat, possible seizures, and severe confusion (delirium tremens).
263. Opioid Withdrawal: Symptoms such as restlessness, muscle pain, sweating, gastrointestinal upset, and chills (“cold turkey”).
264. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): Peer-led 12-step program designed to support recovery from alcohol addiction.
265. Eating Disorders: Anorexia involves food restriction; bulimia includes cycles of bingeing and purging.
266. Dementia: Gradual loss of cognitive abilities affecting memory and daily function, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type.
267. Delirium: Sudden confusion with fluctuating alertness; often reversible when the underlying cause is treated (e.g., infection, medication).
268. Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): Controlled seizures induced to treat severe depression; short-term memory loss is a possible side effect.
269. Professional Boundaries: Maintaining clear limits between personal and professional roles; avoiding dual relationships with clients.
270. LGBTQ+ Inclusive Care: Using respectful language, honoring pronouns, and addressing specific health needs of LGBTQ+ individuals.
271. Care for Abuse Victims: Ensure privacy, offer compassionate support, refer to resources, and follow mandatory reporting laws.
272. Suicidal Thoughts: Always evaluate the presence of a plan, means, and intent; never leave someone at high risk unsupervised.
273. Coping Techniques: Methods such as physical exercise, relaxation exercises, social support, journaling, and problem-solving.
274. Behavioral Contracts: Formal agreements with patients to reduce harmful actions like self-injury or aggression.
275. Managing Violent Patients: Use a calm tone, keep safe distance, avoid trapping the person, and offer choices to de-escalate.

Medical-Surgical Conditions & Special Topics

276. COPD: Chronic lung disease causing airflow limitation; includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis; monitor for signs of CO2 buildup.
277. Asthma: Reversible narrowing of airways triggered by allergens or irritants; treated with bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids.
278. Pneumonia: Infection causing inflammation of the lung air sacs; symptoms include fever, productive cough, abnormal breath sounds, and lung consolidation visible on X-ray.
279. Tuberculosis (TB): Contagious bacterial infection spread through airborne droplets; requires long-term multi-drug antibiotic therapy and airborne precautions.
280. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Elevated blood pressure requiring lifestyle modifications and medications such as ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or diuretics.
281. Heart Failure: Inability of the heart to pump blood effectively, leading to fluid buildup; symptoms vary based on left or right heart involvement.
282. Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack): Death of heart muscle tissue due to blocked blood flow; characterized by chest pain, ECG changes, and elevated cardiac enzymes.
283. Arrhythmias: Irregular heartbeats such as atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia; treatment may include medications, electrical cardioversion, or pacemaker implantation.
284. Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident): Sudden neurological impairment caused by either blockage or bleeding in the brain; use FAST to identify symptoms (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, Time to act).
285. Seizures: Sudden abnormal electrical activity in the brain; priority is to ensure safety and then determine the underlying cause.
286. Parkinson’s Disease: Neurodegenerative disorder due to dopamine deficiency; symptoms include tremor, muscle stiffness, and slow movements.
287. Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Autoimmune disorder causing damage to myelin in the central nervous system; characterized by periods of relapse and remission with various neurological symptoms.
288. Diabetes Mellitus: High blood sugar caused by insufficient insulin production (Type 1) or insulin resistance (Type 2).
289. Thyroid Disorders: Overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism) thyroid gland affecting metabolism.
290. Addison’s Disease: Adrenal gland insufficiency resulting in low cortisol and aldosterone levels; symptoms include darkened skin and low blood pressure.
291. Cushing’s Syndrome: Excess cortisol production leading to features like rounded face, fat accumulation on upper back, and high blood sugar.
292. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Progressive loss of kidney function over time; end-stage may require dialysis or transplant.
293. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Bacterial infection affecting the urinary system; symptoms include painful urination, frequent urge to urinate, and flank pain if the kidneys are involved.
294. Osteoporosis: Condition of weakened bones prone to fractures; prevention includes fall precautions and medications like bisphosphonates.
295. Rheumatoid Arthritis: Autoimmune inflammation of joints causing symmetrical joint pain and stiffness, especially in the morning.
296. HIV/AIDS: Virus attacks immune cells (CD4+); untreated leads to opportunistic infections; antiretroviral therapy (ART) is essential.
297. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): Autoimmune disease affecting multiple organs; symptoms may include a butterfly-shaped facial rash and organ involvement.
298. Anaphylaxis: Life-threatening allergic reaction; immediate administration of epinephrine and airway management are critical.
299. Hypovolemic Shock: Severe blood or fluid loss causing low blood pressure; treated with fluid replacement and stopping the source of bleeding.
300. Septic Shock: Serious infection causing blood vessel dilation and dangerously low blood pressure; requires aggressive fluid resuscitation and antibiotics.