Biomedical subjects

M Lucatorto

Publications and source records attributed to M Lucatorto.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed1994

Mannitol revisited.

Investigation into the use of osmotic therapy for ICP reduction began in 1919. Mannitol is the osmotic agent currently in use. Mannitol's effectiveness in reducing ICP has been shown. Osmotic therapy using mannitol reduces ICP by mechanisms that remain unclear. Mannitol is thought to decrease brain volume by decreasing overall water content, to reduce blood volume by vasoconstriction and to reduce CSF volume by decreasing water content. Mannitol may also improve cerebral perfusion by decreasing viscosity or altering red blood cell rheology. Lastly, mannitol may exert a protective effect against biochemical injury. The most common complications of therapy are fluid and electrolyte imbalances, cardiopulmonary edema and rebound cerebral edema. Nursing care of the patient receiving mannitol requires vigilant monitoring of electrolytes and overall fluid balance, and observation for the development of cardiopulmonary complications in addition to neurologic assessment.

Brain Injuries↗

PubMed1992

The false localizing signs of increased intracranial pressure.

False localizing signs, although rare, indicate significant increased intracranial pressure with tissue shift, has occurred. A review of the historical perspective highlights the discovery of these false localizing signs, and exploration of the anatomic and physiologic causes provides important insight for neuroscience nurses. Critical thinking skills, and a world view paradigm for clinical practice are developed upon an in-depth understanding of neurologic dysfunction. Collaborative relationships are enhanced by an interdisciplinary approach to assessment of the critically ill neuroscience patient.

Brain Neoplasms↗

PubMed1991

Documentation. A focus for cost savings.

Documentation typically is an area that can be streamlined, thereby saving nursing time and money. The authors' nursing division created a combination intervention record and nursing progress notes form for a 24-hour period. The results yielded a savings of 90 minutes of RN time in a 24-hours period, a 36% reduction in charting time, and an annual cost savings of $437,000.

Cost-Benefit Analysis↗