title: Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
abstract: Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a condition that is seen in critical care areas in association with a number of precipitating conditions. DIC is often described as a paradoxical disease process of concurrent haemorrhage and thrombus formation, resulting in a range of clinical manifestations related to end organ ischaemia. This article will discuss the coagulation cascade as a basis for understanding the aetiology and pathophysiology of DIC. The discourse surrounding medical treatment will be highlighted to enable bedside nurses to understand the divergent orders they may receive from physicians for different patients. Management of the patient experiencing DIC will be approached from a multidisciplinary focus, as well as highlighting the specific nursing considerations and alternatives from an independent focus.
authors.affiliation: Faculty of Life Sciences, RMIT University, Vic.
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Stewart
mesh_terms: D004211:Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000451:nursing* / Q000503:physiopathology; D005342:Fibrinolysis / Q000502:physiology; D006694:Holistic Health; D006801:Humans