Surgical Drain Removal
Surgical Drain Removal Surgical drains are important adjuncts to postoperative care because they promote wound healing by providing an exit site for fluid that accumulates in or near the wound…
Subdermal Drug Implants
Subdermal Drug Implants A method of drug delivery, subdermal implants come in the form of flexible capsules or rods, which are placed under the skin. This method is most commonly…
Subcutaneous Injection
Subcutaneous Injection When injected into the adipose (fatty) tissue beneath the skin, a drug moves into the bloodstream more rapidly than if given by mouth. Subcutaneous injection allows slower, more…
Stump and Prosthesis Care
Stump and Prosthesis Care Patient care immediately after limb amputation includes monitoring drainage from the stump, managing pain, reducing edema, positioning the affected limb, assisting with exercises prescribed by a…
St-Segment Monitoring
St-Segment Monitoring A sensitive indicator of myocardial damage, the ST segment is normally flat or isoelectric. A depressed ST segment may result from cardiac glycosides, myocardial ischemia, or a subendocardial…
Sterile Technique, Basic
Sterile Technique, Basic Sterile technique is used to prevent contamination with microbes, preventing infection. It’s used in conjunction with other procedures and isn’t a procedure in itself. Sterile technique should…
Stool Specimen Collection
Stool Specimen Collection Stool is collected to determine the presence of blood, ova and parasites, pathogens, or such substances as ingested drugs. Gross examination of stool characteristics, including color, consistency,…
Standard Precautions
Standard Precautions Standard precautions were developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to protect against the transmission of infection. CDC officials recommend that health care workers assume…
Sputum Collection
Sputum Collection Secreted by mucous membranes lining the bronchioles, bronchi, and trachea, sputum helps protect the respiratory tract from infection. When expelled from the respiratory tract, sputum carries saliva, nasal…
Sponge Bath
Sponge Bath A sponge bath with tepid water reduces fever by dilating superficial blood vessels, thus releasing heat and lowering body temperature. A tepid-water sponge bath may lower systemic temperature…
