Title: Week 4 Welcome
Course: 16SP-ASN-210-GH1A1-ADV NUR THROUGH LIFESPAN I > Section: Week 4

MANAGEMENT OF PTS WITH IMMUNE SYSTEM PROBLEMS

Ignatavicius:

Chapters 18

Chapters 19

Chapters 20

Chapters 2

Welcome to Week # 4 of ASN 210!  You are halfway done with your first Advanced Medical Surgical Nursing Class in the OTC ASN Program! This week we will focus on the RN role with patients with various immune system problems. We will focus onthe more common connective tissue disorders. A review of the pathophysiological changes these disorders bring and the diagnostic tests used to diagnose and evaluate the progress of the disorders is important to understand. On the topic of HIV, we will review the pathophysiology of HIV, its transmission, and the process of viral invasion. We will move on and gain an RN understanding on the importance of the nurse’s ability to differentiate between the various types of hypersensitivity in patients. Last but not least, we will discuss infections, with a focus on the control of transmission of infections and common emerging diseases, identifying those at greatest risk and the signs and symptoms of the infectious process, and associated basic clinical management of RNs. You are growing your knowledge from what was covered in LPN school to advanced synthesis and approaches. This is impressive!
Remember, in regards to arthritis and connective tissue problems, interference with mobility can create many problems for the patient and their families. Let’s explore the RN role in assisting patients, protecting and exercising joints, medication interventions used to assist in the alleviation of inflammation and pain, and any patient teaching regarding side and adverse effects of these medications. What about information relative to assisting patients in making needed adjustments in their activities of daily living? As you study, briefly review the lesser known connective tissue disorders.
There is a lot to be reviewed regarding HIV; the pathophysiology of HIV, its transmission, and the process of viral invasion. Focus on the signs and symptoms of the disease and provide a specific review of the various diagnostic tests and their interpretation, and genetic considerations. It is good to recall the methods of prevention of HIV transmission with an emphasis on prevention of transmission among health care workers. We will also review the occurrence and signs and symptoms of the opportunistic infections seen in this population. Drug therapy is the primary intervention for HIV infection. Understand the various drugs, their dosing schedule, methods of action, and side effects.
The importance of the nurse’s ability to differentiate between the various types of hypersensitivity is a must. It is important for the RN student to have an advanced nursing understanding of the development of anaphylaxis in order to identify patients at risk, recognize signs and symptoms, and intervene appropriately.  We will learn about the major immune disorders and the autoimmune deviations.
Finally in infection, remember that health promotion, especially in the area of prevention of the transmission of infection, is an important concept for the RN, their patients and the patient’s family. We will focus on the control of transmission of infections and common emerging diseases, identifying those at greatest risk and the signs and symptoms of the infectious process, and associated basic clinical management. Don’t forget pharmacological management and the etiologies regarding the emergence of drug-resistant strains!
This is a busy week but all worth it in nursing knowledge.

Here is your To-Do List this Week:
Tuesday- Week 4 Pre-Quiz (Pass/Fail)
Lessons:

- Arthritis & CT Disorders
- HIV & Immune Deficiencies & Infections
- Allergies & Autoimmunity

Friday- Unit Post Quiz- 20 Points

Friday-ASN 210 UNIT EXAM # 2-150 Points (Exam content from Week 3 & 4)

Clinical Time & Assignments (Pass/Fail)