Nasogastric Tube (NG Tube) Guide for Nurses: Everything You Need to Know
Definition A nasogastric tube (NG tube) is a flexible tube that is inserted through the nose, down the esophagus, and into the stomach. It is used for various purposes, including feeding, administering medications, and draining stomach contents. Related Terms Enteral Feeding: The process of providing nutrition directly into the gastrointestinal tract through a tube, such […]
Informed Consent in Healthcare: A Comprehensive Guide for Nurses
Definition Informed consent is a legal and ethical process in which a patient receives sufficient information about a proposed medical treatment or procedure, understands the potential benefits and risks, and voluntarily agrees to undergo the treatment or procedure. The process ensures that patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare and that healthcare professionals respect […]
HIPAA: A Comprehensive Guide for Nurses
Definition The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is a United States federal law enacted in 1996. It is designed to protect the privacy and security of patients’ medical records and other health information. HIPAA establishes national standards for electronic healthcare transactions and safeguards patients’ protected health information (PHI). Related Terms Protected Health Information […]
Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) – A Comprehensive Guide for Nurses
Definition The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is a standardized neurological assessment tool used to evaluate a patient’s level of consciousness by assessing their eye, verbal, and motor responses. Developed by Graham Teasdale and Bryan Jennett in 1974, the GCS is widely used in clinical settings and emergency medicine to monitor patients with head injuries, strokes, […]
Foley Catheter: A Comprehensive Guide for Nurses
Definition A Foley catheter is a flexible, indwelling urinary catheter used to drain urine from the bladder. It is typically made of silicone or latex material and has a small, inflatable balloon at its tip, which is inflated after insertion to help keep the catheter in place. Related Terms Indwelling Catheter: A type of catheter […]
Palliative Care: A Comprehensive Guide for Nurses and Healthcare Professionals
Definition Palliative care is a specialized approach to medical care for people with serious illnesses, focusing on providing relief from the symptoms, pain, and stress of the illness. The primary goal is to improve the quality of life for both the patient and their family, addressing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. Related Terms Hospice […]