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ABCDE approach and monitoring the patient - Coggle Diagram
ABCDE approach and monitoring the patient
A(AIRWAY)
assess the airway
open the mouth and inspect,is there anything compromisisng eg.excretion
can patient talk, if no Look for signs of airway compromise
In any case of airway obstruction, seek immediate expert help from an anaesthetist.
If noisy breathing persists try a jaw thrust.
Insert an oropharyngeal airway only if unconscious
B(BREATHING)
expose chest
listen to the breathe sound
check if patient is breathing
check thoracic symmetry
check presence of wound in thorax
C(CIRCULATION)
check central pulse
check peripheral pulse
check quality of pulse
check the presence of haemorrage
check normal BP
seek help if heart rate and bp is extreme
Does the patient have a new murmur suggestive of endocarditis?
Is the patient septic?(
Take blood cultures
Give IV antibiotics
Give IV fluids
D(DISABILITY)
Repeat AVPU
Assess pupils (size, symmetry, reaction to light):
Calculate Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) if appropriate
Check drugs chart for opioids, sedatives, anxiolytics and antihypertensives
Is the patient diabetic?
Check for ketones if BM > 15mmols as the patient may be in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
See hypoglycaemia guide
See diabetic ketoacidosis guide
Request a CT head in suspected intracranial pathology after discussion with senior.
Maintain the airway
E(EXPOSURE)
It may be necessary to fully expose the patient for a full assessment.
Remember to prioritise patient dignity and conservation of body heat.
Check skin for rashes and other signs of infection
Is there pus or blood suggestive of infection or injury?
If you identify bleeding,, Estimate the total blood loss and the rate of blood loss.
Is the patient in shock? (e.g. hypotension and tachycardia)
recognise cardiac arrest
use AED
Screen any patient with suspected infection for sepsis.
In suspected DVT, calculate a Well’s score and manage appropriately.
how to use in monitoring
assess the effect of treatment
do complete assessment and re-assess regularly.
communicate effectively
recognise if extra time needed and seek for help early.
check absolute values of vital signs
check important routine medications
treat all problems as you find