Hyperdynamic therapy: the nurse's role in the treatment of cerebral vasospasm.
The onset of subtle diffuse ischemic neurological deficits often associated with cerebral vasospasm is a major cause of morbidity and mortality following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. The exact etiology of cerebral vasospasm is unclear. Increasing intravascular volume, decreasing blood viscosity and inducing hypertension may help prevent or diminish neurological deficits from cerebral vasospasm by improving cerebral blood flow. An intensive multidisciplinary approach is necessary with the role of the neuroscience nurse being pivotal. An understanding of the subtle neurological changes suggestive of cerebral vasospasm and its effects leads to early recognition, and allows for rapid institution of therapy.
Campbell
P J
PJ
University of California, Davis Medical Center, Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit, Sacramento 95817, USA.
Edwards
S M
SM
D000328:Adult; D017542:Aneurysm, Ruptured / Q000145:classification / Q000150:complications*; D003102:Colloids / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000077324:Crystalloid Solutions; D005260:Female; D005440:Fluid Therapy / Q000379:methods / Q000451:nursing*; D006438:Hemodilution / Q000379:methods / Q000451:nursing*; D006801:Humans; D002532:Intracranial Aneurysm / Q000145:classification / Q000150:complications*; D002546:Ischemic Attack, Transient / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D007552:Isotonic Solutions; D008875:Middle Aged; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D010952:Plasma Substitutes / Q000627:therapeutic use
D003102:Colloids; D000077324:Crystalloid Solutions; D007552:Isotonic Solutions; D010952:Plasma Substitutes