Medical Technology in Healthcare: Understanding Patient Care and Equipment

As healthcare professionals, it is crucial to understand and properly utilize medical equipment to ensure patient safety and effective treatment. This article delves into various aspects of medical technology, including essential guidelines, patient care procedures, and the intricacies of medical devices. We will explore the use of medical technology such as PVK and CVK, the importance of correctly using arterial needles, and detailed explanations of anesthesia equipment and procedures.

Understanding Medical Equipment and Its Use

Medical technology plays a critical role in modern healthcare, enabling precise and effective treatment of patients. It is important for healthcare professionals to be familiar with the features of each device and their professional responsibilities when using them. This article will cover various topics related to medical technology, from how to use medical devices correctly to understanding critical patient care procedures.

Acronyms and Abbreviations in Healthcare

Several acronyms and abbreviations are frequently used in healthcare. Two commonly used terms are PVK (Peripheral Venous Catheter) and CVK (Central Venous Catheter). PVKs are peripheral venous catheters used as an opening for the patient's circulatory system to administer loose drugs. CVKs are central venous catheters with one, two, or three lumens, often used in intensive care to administer drugs directly into the significant circulation.

Arterial Needles and Pressure Sensors

Proper placement of arterial needle pressure sensors is critical for accurate blood pressure readings. These sensors must be placed at the same height as the right atrium heart muscle to avoid showing false values. Incorrect positioning can lead to inaccurate readings, which can affect patient care. It is essential for intensive care nurses to be informed if the pressure sensor is incorrectly positioned and suggest adjustments.

Anesthesia Equipment and Procedures

When assisting with anesthesia during surgery, healthcare professionals need to be prepared with the right equipment and knowledge. For example, when setting up for a regular anesthesia, it is necessary to have endotracheal tubes, laryngoscopes, leaders, and other materials to ensure a smooth procedure. The endotracheal tube is placed using a conductor to facilitate intubation, and the cuff is inflated with air to secure the tube in place.

Thoracic Drains and Their Functions

Thoracic drains are important for managing pleural fluid and air in the thoracic cavity. Both passive and active drainage systems can be used, depending on the patient's condition. Passive drains rely on the patient's breathing to expel fluid, while active systems use a machine to remove pleural fluid and contain it. These drains help ensure the patient can breathe more easily and facilitate gas exchange.

Endotracheal Tube Cuffs and Risks

The use of cuffed endotracheal tubes is common in anesthesia. However, these cuffs can pose risks, such as causing physical damage to the tracheal mucosa over time due to high pressure. To mitigate these risks, continuous monitoring and appropriate care are essential.

Monopolar and Bipolar Diathermy

Diathermy devices can be either monopolar or bipolar. Monopolar diathermy involves using a conducting plate to pass electrons to a plate on the patient, while bipolar diathermy eliminates the need for an external plate. Understanding the differences between these devices is crucial for effective patient care.

Ventilation Modes and PEEP Settings

The two main ventilation modes are volume-controlled and pressure-controlled. Volume-controlled ventilation maintains a consistent carbon dioxide level, while pressure-controlled ventilation focuses on managing the oxygen pressure in the lungs. PEEP (positive end-expiratory pressure) keeps alveoli open and is often used when the exact lung condition is unknown.

Lumbar Puncture and Blood Culture Procedures

Procedures such as lumbar punctures and blood cultures are essential for diagnosing various conditions. Proper techniques and safety measures are crucial to avoid complications. For blood cultures, it is important to follow a specific order of sampling to avoid contamination and ensure accurate results.

Oxygen Use and Safety

The use of oxygen in medical settings requires careful management. While oxygen is a life-saving gas, it can also pose risks if not used correctly. Safety measures include proper cylinder handling, color-coded gas cylinders, and ensuring gas is not confused with other substances.

Calculation and Safety

Examples of practical calculations demonstrate the importance of accurate measurements. In this case, a patient requiring oxygen during an X-ray can be evaluated to ensure sufficient supply time. Correct oxygen use also involves understanding the potential risks, such as oxygen fires if in close proximity to flammable materials.