Neurointensivvårdspatientens förutsättningar för ett optimalt neurologiskt wake-up test
en observationsstudie
Interruption of sedationObservational studyNeurocritical careNeurological assessmentNursing interventionsObservationsstudieOmvårdnadsåtgärderNeurointensivvårdNeurologisk statusSederingsstopp
Background: Examinations with the intent to assess neurological functions and level of conciousness are common in neurocritical care, but the effect on the patient is not entirely researched.Aim: The purpose of this study was to describe the patient?s situation at the neurological wake-up test concerning the environment, nursing interventions and the possibility given the patient to become awake, and if these conditions affect the outcome of the wake-up test.Methods: A quantitative observational study took place at a neurocritical care unit, where 20 patients were observed from interruption of sedation to the neurological assessment, which was performed by a neurosurgeon or a specialized critical care registered nurse. Nursing interventions, environmental factors and physiological parameters were documented.Result: Twelve intervention varieties to control patients? physiological parameters were used. CPP > 80 mmHg was found in 90 % of observations. Adjustment of the patient?s body position was found in 45 % of observations. The patients were considered sufficiently awake for the neurological assessment in 74 % of observations. The level of consciousness at the point of the neurological assessment was different depending on if it took place in the mornings, performed by neurosurgeons or in the afternoon, performed by nurses. The patients were not agitated and 60 % of patients appeared pain-free.Conclusion: The observed patients were given good conditions concerning environmental factors and nursing interventions for a neurological wake-up test with a fair neurological assessment. NWT as a method didn´t generally cause the observed patients discomfort, such as pain or agitation.