Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Swelling, bleeding, tumor, infection, or blocked CSF flow increases pressure inside the skull.
• The skull cannot expand, so pressure reduces cerebral perfusion and can cause herniation.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess level of consciousness, pupils, motor response, and vital sign trends.
• Keep head midline and elevate HOB as ordered to support venous drainage.
• Avoid clustering activities that sharply increase ICP.

Complications

• Herniation
• Seizures
• Respiratory arrest
• Permanent neurologic injury

NCLEX cues

• Change in LOC is often earliest.
• Cushing response is late.
• New unequal pupils are urgent.

Memory hooks

• LOC first, Cushing late.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Neuro checks
• CT/MRI
• ICP trends if monitored
• Serum osmolality when osmotic therapy is used

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Blunt or penetrating trauma damages brain tissue and vessels.
• Primary injury occurs at impact; secondary injury comes from hypoxia, hypotension, edema, or bleeding.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Prioritize airway, oxygenation, cervical spine precautions, and perfusion.
• Trend GCS, pupils, motor response, and signs of basilar skull fracture.
• Report vomiting, worsening headache, seizure, or declining LOC.

Complications

• Increased ICP
• Seizures
• Aspiration
• Subdural or epidural bleeding

NCLEX cues

• Battle sign, raccoon eyes, CSF leak.
• One dilated pupil after head trauma.
• Worsening restlessness.

Memory hooks

• After head injury, behavior change is a neuro change until proven otherwise.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Brain blood flow is blocked by clot/embolus or disrupted by bleeding; TIA symptoms resolve but warn of risk.
• Ischemia or hemorrhage injures brain tissue, creating focal neurologic deficits.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Determine last known well and perform focused neuro assessment.
• Maintain airway and aspiration precautions; keep NPO until swallow screen if indicated.
• Do not give antithrombotics until hemorrhage is ruled out by protocol.

Complications

• Aspiration
• Cerebral edema
• Hemorrhagic conversion
• Falls

NCLEX cues

• Facial droop, arm drift, speech change.
• Sudden severe headache can suggest hemorrhage.
• Time matters.

Memory hooks

• Stroke questions are time, airway, swallow, CT.

Labs / Diagnostics

• CT head
• Glucose check
• NIH stroke scale
• Coagulation labs when ordered

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Abnormal electrical brain activity can be idiopathic, structural, metabolic, infectious, or medication-related.
• Neurons fire in a synchronized abnormal pattern causing altered awareness, movement, or sensation.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Protect from injury, lower to side if possible, and time the seizure.
• Do not restrain and do not place objects in the mouth.
• After seizure, assess airway, breathing, oxygenation, and postictal state.

Complications

• Status epilepticus
• Aspiration
• Injury
• Hypoxia

NCLEX cues

• Aura, tonic-clonic movement, postictal confusion.
• Priority is safety and airway after activity stops.

Memory hooks

• Protect, do not restrain.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Prolonged seizure or repeated seizures without return to baseline.
• Sustained neuronal firing can cause hypoxia, acidosis, hyperthermia, and neurologic injury.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Call for emergency help and protect airway, oxygenation, and IV access.
• Prepare rescue medication per protocol.
• Check glucose and temperature when stabilized.

Complications

• Respiratory failure
• Aspiration
• Brain injury
• Rhabdomyolysis

NCLEX cues

• Seizure lasting several minutes.
• Repeated seizures without waking.
• Benzodiazepine plus airway monitoring.

Memory hooks

• Long seizure equals airway emergency.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Progressive loss of dopamine-producing neurons.
• Dopamine deficit causes bradykinesia, rigidity, tremor, and postural instability.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Support fall precautions, swallowing safety, and medication timing.
• Encourage mobility, speech/swallow therapy, and nutrition planning.
• Monitor orthostatic hypotension and hallucinations from therapy.

Complications

• Aspiration
• Falls
• Constipation
• Medication wearing off

NCLEX cues

• Shuffling gait, mask-like face, pill-rolling tremor.
• Late dose worsens mobility.

Memory hooks

• Parkinson is slow and stiff; meds are clock-sensitive.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Autoimmune demyelination in the central nervous system.
• Damaged myelin slows or blocks nerve conduction with relapsing or progressive deficits.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Cluster care with rest periods and avoid overheating.
• Assess vision, mobility, bladder function, and fatigue.
• Teach infection prevention because infection can worsen symptoms.

Complications

• Falls
• Urinary retention or infection
• Aspiration in advanced disease
• Depression

NCLEX cues

• Heat worsens symptoms.
• Visual changes, numbness, weakness, fatigue.

Memory hooks

• MS wiring loses insulation.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Autoimmune attack on acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction.
• Muscles weaken with use and improve with rest; respiratory muscles can fail in crisis.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess respiratory effort, swallowing, chewing fatigue, and ptosis.
• Schedule activities after medication peak when possible.
• Keep suction and airway support available for bulbar weakness.

Complications

• Myasthenic crisis
• Aspiration
• Respiratory failure

NCLEX cues

• Ptosis, diplopia, dysphagia, weakness worse later in day.
• Respiratory decline is priority.

Memory hooks

• MG muscles get tired; meals after meds.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Immune-mediated peripheral nerve demyelination often after infection.
• Ascending weakness can progress to respiratory muscle failure and autonomic instability.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Monitor respiratory function, swallowing, and autonomic changes.
• Assess ascending weakness and ability to cough.
• Prepare for IVIG/plasmapheresis if ordered and ventilatory support if needed.

Complications

• Respiratory failure
• Dysrhythmias
• DVT
• Aspiration

NCLEX cues

• Ascending weakness after illness.
• Vital capacity decline is urgent.

Memory hooks

• GBS climbs up; watch breathing before walking.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Inflammation of meninges from bacterial, viral, or other infection.
• Meningeal inflammation can increase ICP and cause sepsis or neurologic injury.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Initiate indicated isolation precautions promptly.
• Assess fever, neck stiffness, photophobia, LOC, and rash.
• Reduce stimulation and monitor for increased ICP or seizures.

Complications

• Sepsis
• Seizures
• Hearing loss
• Increased ICP

NCLEX cues

• Fever, stiff neck, photophobia.
• Droplet precautions may be needed for suspected bacterial meningitis.

Memory hooks

• Meningitis equals protect others and protect the brain.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Brain inflammation commonly caused by viral infection or immune process.
• Inflamed brain tissue causes altered LOC, seizures, fever, and neurologic deficits.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Monitor neuro status, airway, fever, and seizure activity.
• Maintain safety and reduce stimulation.
• Prepare ordered diagnostic testing and antimicrobial therapy promptly.

Complications

• Seizures
• Increased ICP
• Long-term cognitive deficits
• Respiratory compromise

NCLEX cues

• Fever plus altered mental status.
• Seizure precautions.

Memory hooks

• Brain infection changes behavior and consciousness.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Trauma, compression, ischemia, or disease injures spinal cord pathways.
• Motor, sensory, and autonomic pathways below the injury are impaired.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Protect airway and spinal alignment during acute care.
• Monitor for neurogenic shock, spinal shock, and autonomic dysreflexia risk.
• Assess motor/sensory level, bladder, bowel, skin, and DVT prevention needs.

Complications

• Respiratory compromise with high cervical injury
• Neurogenic shock
• Autonomic dysreflexia
• Pressure injury

NCLEX cues

• Bradycardia and hypotension after spinal injury suggest neurogenic shock.
• Pounding headache with high BP later suggests autonomic dysreflexia.

Memory hooks

• High cord injury means breathing and autonomic control.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• An EVD drains CSF and monitors pressure when ICP or hydrocephalus is a concern.
• Drain height and leveling determine CSF drainage and pressure accuracy.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Keep system leveled and zeroed per facility policy.
• Clamp only for ordered activities or transport per protocol.
• Report sudden drainage change, bright blood, neuro decline, or signs of infection.

Complications

• Infection
• Overdrainage
• Underdrainage
• Bleeding
• Increased ICP

NCLEX cues

• Do not independently lower the drain to increase output.
• Leveling matters before readings.

Memory hooks

• EVD is plumbing: level first, sterility always.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Impaired aqueous humor drainage increases intraocular pressure.
• Pressure damages the optic nerve and can cause permanent vision loss.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Teach correct eye drop technique and punctal pressure when instructed.
• Report severe eye pain, halos, nausea, or sudden vision change.
• Avoid medications that can worsen narrow-angle glaucoma unless cleared.

Complications

• Permanent vision loss

NCLEX cues

• Halos around lights, severe eye pain, nausea in acute angle closure.
• Do not rub after surgery.

Memory hooks

• Glaucoma pressure pushes on the optic nerve.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Retina separates from underlying tissue after tear, trauma, or degeneration.
• Detached retina loses blood supply and photoreceptor function.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Treat sudden flashes, floaters, or curtain over vision as urgent.
• Limit activity and position as ordered before/after repair.
• Protect affected eye and avoid pressure.

Complications

• Permanent vision loss

NCLEX cues

• Curtain coming down is classic.
• No pain does not mean no emergency.

Memory hooks

• Curtain over vision equals retina emergency.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Lens opacity from aging, diabetes, steroids, trauma, or UV exposure.
• Clouded lens scatters light and reduces visual clarity.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Teach glare reduction and safety with poor night vision.
• After surgery, avoid bending, heavy lifting, and eye rubbing per instructions.
• Report severe pain, vision loss, or drainage after surgery.

Complications

• Falls
• Postoperative infection or pressure increase

NCLEX cues

• Cloudy painless vision.
• Post-op eye shield and activity restrictions.

Memory hooks

• Cataract is cloudy lens.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Age-related damage to the macula, with dry or wet forms.
• Central vision deteriorates while peripheral vision may remain.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Teach use of Amsler grid if prescribed and report distortion.
• Promote lighting, magnification, and fall prevention.
• Support smoking cessation and eye follow-up.

Complications

• Loss of central vision
• Medication or injection complications in wet form

NCLEX cues

• Central blurred spot, straight lines look wavy.
• Peripheral vision often remains.

Memory hooks

• Macula is middle vision.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Middle ear infection or effusion often after URI, common in children.
• Fluid behind tympanic membrane causes pain, fever, and hearing changes.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess pain, fever, drainage, and hearing concerns.
• Teach medication completion if prescribed.
• Avoid smoke exposure and promote immunization follow-up.

Complications

• Hearing loss
• Mastoiditis
• Tympanic membrane rupture

NCLEX cues

• Child pulling ear after URI.
• Drainage can mean rupture.

Memory hooks

• Ear pain after URI: think middle ear pressure.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Inner ear fluid imbalance affects vestibular and hearing function.
• Endolymphatic pressure causes episodic vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing changes.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Protect from falls during vertigo episodes.
• Teach low-sodium diet if prescribed and avoid triggers.
• Encourage sitting or lying still during acute vertigo.

Complications

• Falls
• Progressive hearing loss
• Nausea/dehydration

NCLEX cues

• Vertigo plus tinnitus plus hearing loss.
• Safety is first during an attack.

Memory hooks

• Meniere spins, rings, and muffles.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Primary vascular resistance or secondary causes such as kidney/endocrine disease.
• Chronic pressure damages vessels, heart, kidneys, brain, and retina.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Confirm accurate BP technique and trend readings.
• Assess for target organ symptoms: chest pain, neuro change, dyspnea, kidney concerns.
• Teach adherence and lifestyle measures without abruptly stopping meds.

Complications

• Stroke
• MI
• Heart failure
• Kidney disease
• Retinopathy

NCLEX cues

• Often silent.
• Hypertensive emergency means severe BP plus organ damage symptoms.

Memory hooks

• High pressure quietly damages pipes and pumps.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Pump dysfunction after hypertension, MI, valve disease, cardiomyopathy, or other cardiac stress.
• Reduced forward flow and/or fluid backup cause congestion and poor perfusion.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Monitor daily weight, edema, lung sounds, oxygenation, and intake/output.
• Position upright for dyspnea and administer oxygen/diuretics as ordered.
• Teach weight gain reporting and sodium/fluid instructions.

Complications

• Pulmonary edema
• Kidney injury
• Dysrhythmias
• Cardiogenic shock

NCLEX cues

• Crackles, S3, edema, sudden weight gain.
• Pink frothy sputum is emergency pulmonary edema.

Memory hooks

• Left backs into lungs; right backs into body.

Labs / Diagnostics

• BNP
• Chest x-ray
• Echocardiogram
• Electrolytes and kidney function

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Reduced coronary blood flow from plaque rupture, clot, or severe narrowing.
• Myocardial oxygen supply does not meet demand, causing ischemia and possible necrosis.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess chest pain, vital signs, oxygenation, and obtain ECG promptly.
• Check contraindications before nitroglycerin.
• Prepare for reperfusion pathway and monitor for dysrhythmias.

Complications

• V-fib
• Heart failure
• Cardiogenic shock
• Papillary muscle rupture

NCLEX cues

• Crushing chest pressure, diaphoresis, nausea, radiating pain.
• Troponin trend matters.

Memory hooks

• Chest pain NCLEX: assess, ECG, perfusion, protocol.

Labs / Diagnostics

• 12-lead ECG
• Troponin
• Electrolytes
• Chest pain assessment

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Disorganized atrial electrical activity from age, heart disease, thyroid disease, infection, or stress.
• Atria quiver instead of contracting, causing irregular rhythm and clot risk.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess hemodynamic stability before focusing on rhythm label.
• Monitor rate, blood pressure, symptoms, and anticoagulation safety.
• Teach stroke warning signs and bleeding precautions when anticoagulated.

Complications

• Stroke
• Heart failure
• Hypotension
• Rapid ventricular response

NCLEX cues

• Irregularly irregular rhythm.
• No consistent P waves.
• Clot risk.

Memory hooks

• A-fib is irregular and clotty.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Reentry circuit in the atria, often linked to cardiac disease or pulmonary disease.
• Rapid atrial rhythm creates sawtooth flutter waves and variable ventricular response.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess symptoms and perfusion.
• Monitor rate control and anticoagulation safety.
• Prepare for cardioversion/ablation pathway when ordered.

Complications

• Stroke
• Rapid ventricular response
• Heart failure

NCLEX cues

• Sawtooth flutter waves.
• Count ventricular rate and assess stability.

Memory hooks

• Flutter looks like a saw.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Reentry rhythm above the ventricles.
• Very fast rate reduces filling time and can reduce cardiac output.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess stability: blood pressure, chest pain, mental status, perfusion.
• Prepare vagal maneuvers or adenosine for stable clients per protocol.
• Prepare synchronized cardioversion if unstable per emergency protocol.

Complications

• Hypotension
• Syncope
• Heart failure
• Ischemia

NCLEX cues

• Narrow fast regular rhythm.
• Unstable tachycardia needs synchronized cardioversion.

Memory hooks

• Fast and narrow: check stability first.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Irritable ventricular focus from ischemia, hypoxia, caffeine/stimulants, or electrolyte imbalance.
• Early wide ventricular beat interrupts regular rhythm.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Assess frequency, symptoms, oxygenation, and perfusion.
• Check potassium and magnesium trends when ordered.
• Report runs, increasing frequency, or PVCs with MI symptoms.

Complications

• V-tach
• V-fib
• Reduced cardiac output

NCLEX cues

• Wide bizarre early beat.
• PVCs after MI are higher concern.

Memory hooks

• Irritable ventricle can escalate.

Labs / Diagnostics

• ECG
• Potassium
• Magnesium
• Oxygenation

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Rapid ventricular rhythm from ischemia, electrolyte imbalance, structural disease, or toxicity.
• Ventricles beat too fast to fill and pump effectively.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Check pulse and assess stability immediately.
• If pulseless, start CPR and defibrillation pathway.
• If unstable with pulse, prepare synchronized cardioversion per protocol.

Complications

• Cardiac arrest
• V-fib
• Shock

NCLEX cues

• Wide-complex tachycardia.
• Pulse/no pulse changes the whole answer.

Memory hooks

• V-tach: pulse check first.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Chaotic ventricular electrical activity from ischemia, electrolyte derangement, or cardiac disease.
• No organized ventricular contraction means no effective cardiac output.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Call code, start CPR, and defibrillate per protocol.
• Continue high-quality compressions and rhythm checks per algorithm.
• Treat reversible causes when identified.

Complications

• Death without rapid defibrillation

NCLEX cues

• No pulse with chaotic rhythm.
• Defibrillation, not synchronized cardioversion.

Memory hooks

• V-fib gets defib.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• No detectable ventricular electrical activity, often final common pathway of arrest.
• No electrical activity means no mechanical output.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Confirm rhythm in more than one lead and assess pulse.
• Start CPR and follow non-shockable arrest protocol.
• Search reversible causes and do not defibrillate true asystole.

Complications

• Death

NCLEX cues

• Flatline rhythm.
• CPR and epinephrine pathway, not shock.

Memory hooks

• Asystole is non-shockable.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Device supports slow or unsafe conduction rhythms.
• Electrical impulses trigger atrial and/or ventricular contraction when native rhythm is inadequate.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Monitor capture, sensing, and client symptoms.
• After insertion, limit affected arm movement per instructions and assess incision.
• Teach device ID, follow-up, and magnet/electrical precautions per provider guidance.

Complications

• Failure to capture
• Infection
• Lead dislodgement
• Pneumothorax after insertion

NCLEX cues

• Pacemaker spike without QRS can mean failure to capture.
• Hiccups or twitching after insertion can suggest lead issue.

Memory hooks

• Spike should make a beat.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Device treats life-threatening ventricular dysrhythmias.
• Monitors rhythm and delivers therapy for dangerous ventricular rhythms.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Teach shock plan and when to seek emergency care.
• Assess anxiety and device site.
• Keep external defibrillation pads away from device site if emergency shock is needed.

Complications

• Inappropriate shock
• Infection
• Lead malfunction
• Dysrhythmia recurrence

NCLEX cues

• ICD shock is expected for detected lethal rhythm but repeated shocks need evaluation.

Memory hooks

• ICD is internal defib backup.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Airway inflammation and hyperreactivity triggered by allergens, infection, exercise, irritants, or stress.
• Bronchoconstriction, mucus, and swelling narrow airways and trap air.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess work of breathing, wheezing, oxygenation, and ability to speak.
• Use rescue bronchodilator first during acute bronchospasm per protocol.
• Teach controller versus rescue inhaler difference.

Complications

• Status asthmaticus
• Respiratory failure
• Pneumothorax

NCLEX cues

• Silent chest is worse than wheezing.
• Tripod, accessory muscles, cannot speak full sentences.

Memory hooks

• No wheeze can mean no air movement.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Chronic airflow limitation from smoking, environmental exposure, or genetic risk.
• Air trapping and poor gas exchange cause chronic dyspnea and exacerbations.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Position upright, coach pursed-lip breathing, and assess oxygenation.
• Administer oxygen as ordered and monitor CO2 retention risk based on protocol.
• Teach infection prevention, vaccines, and smoking cessation.

Complications

• Respiratory failure
• Pneumonia
• Cor pulmonale
• Pneumothorax

NCLEX cues

• Barrel chest, pursed lips, chronic productive cough.
• Increasing somnolence can signal CO2 retention.

Memory hooks

• COPD traps air; exhale slowly.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Infection inflames alveoli and fills airspaces with fluid or pus.
• Gas exchange worsens because alveoli are not ventilating normally.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess respiratory rate, lung sounds, oxygenation, fever, and sputum.
• Encourage coughing, deep breathing, fluids if allowed, and mobility.
• Obtain sputum culture before antibiotic if ordered and not delaying urgent care.

Complications

• Sepsis
• Respiratory failure
• Pleural effusion

NCLEX cues

• Fever, cough, crackles, hypoxia.
• Older adults may present with confusion.

Memory hooks

• Pneumonia fills air sacs; oxygenation drives priority.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection spread by airborne particles.
• Granulomatous lung infection can be latent or active and contagious when active pulmonary disease is present.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Use airborne precautions for suspected/active pulmonary TB.
• Teach prolonged medication adherence and public health follow-up.
• Monitor liver-related symptoms with selected TB medications.

Complications

• Transmission
• Hemoptysis
• Drug resistance
• Disseminated disease

NCLEX cues

• Night sweats, weight loss, chronic cough, hemoptysis.
• Negative pressure room for suspected active TB.

Memory hooks

• TB travels in air; respirator and negative pressure.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Clot travels to pulmonary arteries, often from DVT.
• Blocked pulmonary circulation impairs oxygenation and strains the right heart.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess sudden dyspnea, chest pain, tachycardia, hypoxia, and anxiety.
• Apply oxygen and notify provider/rapid response per severity.
• Monitor anticoagulation safety and bleeding.

Complications

• Shock
• Respiratory failure
• Right heart strain
• Death

NCLEX cues

• Sudden shortness of breath after immobility or surgery.
• Unexplained tachycardia/hypoxia.

Memory hooks

• PE is a clot in the lung: oxygen and perfusion emergency.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Air enters pleural space after trauma, procedure, lung disease, or spontaneous rupture.
• Air pressure collapses lung tissue; tension pneumothorax shifts mediastinum and blocks venous return.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Assess breath sounds, chest rise, tracheal position, oxygenation, and distress.
• Prepare chest tube or needle decompression pathway for tension signs per protocol.
• Monitor chest tube system if present and keep emergency supplies per policy.

Complications

• Tension pneumothorax
• Respiratory failure
• Shock

NCLEX cues

• Sudden chest pain and unilateral absent breath sounds.
• Tracheal deviation and hypotension are late tension signs.

Memory hooks

• Air outside lung collapses lung.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Sepsis, trauma, aspiration, pneumonia, pancreatitis, or transfusion can trigger diffuse lung injury.
• Leaky alveolar-capillary membrane causes noncardiogenic pulmonary edema and refractory hypoxemia.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Monitor severe hypoxemia that does not correct easily with oxygen.
• Support mechanical ventilation strategies and prone positioning if ordered.
• Prevent ventilator-associated complications and treat underlying cause.

Complications

• Respiratory failure
• Multi-organ dysfunction
• Barotrauma

NCLEX cues

• Severe dyspnea after sepsis/trauma.
• Low PaO2 despite high oxygen.

Memory hooks

• ARDS alveoli leak and stiffen.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Ventilator supports oxygenation and ventilation when the client cannot maintain them.
• Positive pressure moves air into lungs but can affect hemodynamics and lung tissue.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess airway security, breath sounds, chest rise, alarms, and oxygenation.
• If distress occurs, assess the client first, then equipment.
• Use oral care, HOB elevation, suctioning as indicated, and sedation safety.

Complications

• Ventilator-associated pneumonia
• Barotrauma
• Decreased cardiac output
• Accidental extubation

NCLEX cues

• High pressure alarm can mean obstruction/coughing/kink.
• Low pressure alarm can mean leak/disconnection.

Memory hooks

• Vent alarm: look at the patient first.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Lower esophageal sphincter weakness allows reflux of stomach contents.
• Acid exposure irritates esophageal lining and causes heartburn or regurgitation.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Teach small meals, avoiding late meals, and elevating head of bed.
• Review trigger foods and weight/smoking factors.
• Report dysphagia, bleeding, or weight loss.

Complications

• Esophagitis
• Stricture
• Aspiration
• Barrett changes

NCLEX cues

• Burning after meals and lying down.
• Lifestyle teaching is testable.

Memory hooks

• GERD goes up; keep head up.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• H. pylori infection, NSAID use, stress physiology, or excess acid injury.
• Mucosal barrier breakdown creates gastric or duodenal ulceration.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess pain pattern, NSAID use, bleeding signs, and anemia symptoms.
• Teach avoiding NSAIDs/alcohol if instructed and completing H. pylori therapy.
• Escalate sudden severe abdominal pain or rigid abdomen.

Complications

• GI bleeding
• Perforation
• Gastric outlet obstruction

NCLEX cues

• Coffee-ground emesis or black tarry stool.
• Board-like abdomen can mean perforation.

Memory hooks

• Ulcer can bleed or perforate.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Ulcer, varices, gastritis, Mallory-Weiss tear, or medication-related bleeding.
• Blood loss into upper GI tract causes hypovolemia and anemia risk.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess airway, circulation, orthostatic symptoms, emesis, stool, and vital signs.
• Maintain IV access and prepare fluids/blood/endoscopy pathway as ordered.
• Hold anticoagulants/NSAIDs only per provider order and clarify unsafe meds.

Complications

• Shock
• Aspiration
• Anemia
• Rebleeding

NCLEX cues

• Hematemesis, coffee-ground emesis, melena.
• Circulation priority.

Memory hooks

• GI bleed priority is perfusion.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Hgb/Hct
• BUN may rise
• PT/INR if anticoagulated
• Type and screen

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Diverticular bleeding, hemorrhoids, colorectal disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or ischemia.
• Blood loss from distal GI tract can cause acute or chronic anemia.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Assess amount/color of stool blood and hemodynamic stability.
• Trend Hgb/Hct and prepare diagnostics as ordered.
• Prioritize shock signs over stool appearance alone.

Complications

• Shock
• Anemia
• Syncope

NCLEX cues

• Bright red or maroon stool.
• Orthostatic hypotension means volume loss.

Memory hooks

• Lower bleed can still be a circulation emergency.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Chronic liver injury from alcohol, viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or other causes.
• Scarred liver cannot synthesize proteins, detoxify ammonia, or manage portal blood flow normally.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess bleeding, ascites, edema, jaundice, mental status, and infection signs.
• Monitor PT/INR, albumin, ammonia, electrolytes, and weight.
• Teach avoiding alcohol and bleeding precautions.

Complications

• Variceal bleeding
• Hepatic encephalopathy
• Ascites infection
• Coagulopathy

NCLEX cues

• Prolonged PT/INR because liver makes clotting factors.
• Confusion plus high ammonia.

Memory hooks

• Liver fails: bleed, fluid, toxins.

Labs / Diagnostics

• PT/INR
• Albumin
• Ammonia
• Bilirubin
• AST/ALT

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Liver cannot clear ammonia and other toxins.
• Toxins affect brain function causing confusion, lethargy, and coma risk.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess orientation, asterixis, sleep pattern, and airway risk.
• Monitor stool goal, hydration, and electrolytes with lactulose.
• Prevent injury and treat precipitating factors such as infection or GI bleed.

Complications

• Aspiration
• Falls
• Coma
• Cerebral edema in severe cases

NCLEX cues

• Asterixis, confusion, ammonia elevation.
• Lactulose causing stools is expected within ordered goal.

Memory hooks

• Ammonia clouds the brain; lactulose moves it out.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Gallstones, alcohol, high triglycerides, medications, trauma, or procedures.
• Pancreatic enzymes activate in the pancreas, causing inflammation and autodigestion.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Assess severe epigastric pain radiating to back, nausea, and fluid status.
• Keep NPO if ordered, manage pain, and give IV fluids per protocol.
• Monitor glucose, calcium, respiratory status, and shock signs.

Complications

• Shock
• ARDS
• Hypocalcemia
• Hyperglycemia
• Infection

NCLEX cues

• Severe epigastric pain to back.
• Low calcium can occur.

Memory hooks

• Pancreas digests itself.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Lipase
• Amylase
• Glucose
• Calcium
• WBC

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Adhesions, hernia, tumor, volvulus, ileus, or fecal impaction.
• Bowel contents cannot pass, causing distention, vomiting, fluid shifts, and ischemia risk.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Assess pain, distention, vomiting, bowel sounds, and last stool/flatus.
• Keep NPO and prepare NG decompression or surgery pathway if ordered.
• Monitor fluid/electrolytes and signs of perforation.

Complications

• Perforation
• Peritonitis
• Shock
• Bowel ischemia

NCLEX cues

• No flatus/stool plus distention.
• Feculent vomiting is severe.

Memory hooks

• Blocked bowel backs up and dries out.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Inflammatory bowel disease with immune and genetic factors.
• Transmural patchy inflammation can occur anywhere mouth to anus.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, and malnutrition.
• Monitor fistula/abscess signs and dehydration.
• Teach flare nutrition and medication adherence per plan.

Complications

• Fistulas
• Obstruction
• Abscess
• Malnutrition

NCLEX cues

• Skip lesions, fistulas, right lower quadrant pain.
• Smoking worsens risk.

Memory hooks

• Crohn's tunnels through.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Inflammatory bowel disease affecting colon and rectum.
• Continuous mucosal inflammation causes bloody diarrhea and urgency.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess stool frequency, blood, hydration, and anemia symptoms.
• Monitor for toxic megacolon and perforation signs.
• Support nutrition and skin care around frequent stooling.

Complications

• Toxic megacolon
• Perforation
• Colon cancer risk
• Anemia

NCLEX cues

• Bloody diarrhea.
• Continuous colon involvement.

Memory hooks

• UC is ulcerated colon.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Inflamed or infected diverticula in the colon.
• Weak bowel wall pockets become inflamed, causing pain and infection risk.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess left lower quadrant pain, fever, stool changes, and peritoneal signs.
• Teach acute versus prevention diet instructions as prescribed.
• Escalate rigid abdomen or worsening pain.

Complications

• Perforation
• Abscess
• Peritonitis
• Bleeding

NCLEX cues

• LLQ pain with fever.
• Peritonitis signs are emergency.

Memory hooks

• Diverticula pockets can inflame and leak.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Prerenal hypoperfusion, intrarenal damage, or postrenal obstruction.
• Kidneys abruptly lose filtering ability, causing waste, fluid, acid-base, and electrolyte problems.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Trend urine output, daily weight, edema, lung sounds, BUN/creatinine, and potassium.
• Avoid nephrotoxins and clarify renal dosing concerns.
• Treat underlying cause and prepare dialysis if severe complications occur.

Complications

• Hyperkalemia
• Pulmonary edema
• Metabolic acidosis
• Uremia

NCLEX cues

• Low urine output plus rising creatinine.
• K kills: hyperkalemia is priority.

Memory hooks

• Kidneys fail: fluid up, waste up, K up.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Creatinine
• BUN
• Potassium
• Urine output
• ABG if acid-base concern

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Long-term kidney damage from diabetes, hypertension, glomerular disease, or other causes.
• Progressive nephron loss causes waste retention, anemia, bone/mineral issues, and fluid overload.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Monitor labs, weight, edema, blood pressure, skin, and diet restrictions.
• Teach renal diet elements as prescribed: sodium, potassium, phosphorus, fluid.
• Assess access site and dialysis plan if applicable.

Complications

• Hyperkalemia
• Anemia
• Bone disease
• Uremia
• Fluid overload

NCLEX cues

• Fatigue from anemia.
• Itching/uremia.
• Diet restrictions are common NCLEX items.

Memory hooks

• CKD is slow filter loss.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Dialysis replaces part of kidney filtration for selected kidney failure clients.
• Blood is filtered through a machine to remove waste, electrolytes, and fluid.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Assess access bruit/thrill before treatment for fistula/graft.
• Avoid BP, IV sticks, or blood draws in access arm.
• Monitor hypotension, cramps, bleeding, disequilibrium symptoms, and weight change.

Complications

• Hypotension
• Bleeding
• Access infection
• Disequilibrium syndrome

NCLEX cues

• No bruit/thrill is urgent.
• Expected post-dialysis weight is lower.

Memory hooks

• Protect the access; it is the lifeline.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Bacteria enter urinary tract, often ascending from urethra.
• Inflammation causes dysuria, frequency, urgency, and possible systemic symptoms.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess dysuria, frequency, fever, flank pain, and confusion in older adults.
• Collect urine specimen correctly before antibiotics if ordered.
• Encourage fluids if not restricted and hygiene teaching.

Complications

• Pyelonephritis
• Sepsis
• Delirium in older adults

NCLEX cues

• Burning and urgency.
• Fever/flank pain means upper tract concern.

Memory hooks

• Lower UTI burns; upper UTI hurts the flank.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Bacteria ascend to kidney tissue.
• Kidney infection causes inflammation, fever, flank pain, and sepsis risk.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess fever, chills, flank pain, nausea/vomiting, and urine findings.
• Monitor sepsis signs and kidney function.
• Encourage fluids if allowed and administer antibiotics as ordered.

Complications

• Sepsis
• Kidney abscess
• AKI

NCLEX cues

• CVA tenderness plus fever.
• Systemic signs make it priority.

Memory hooks

• Pyelo reaches the kidney.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Excess ADH from CNS disease, lung disease, medications, or malignancy.
• Water retention dilutes sodium and creates concentrated urine.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Monitor neuro status, sodium, intake/output, daily weight, and seizure risk.
• Implement fluid restriction if ordered.
• Use seizure precautions for severe hyponatremia.

Complications

• Seizures
• Cerebral edema
• Falls

NCLEX cues

• Low sodium, low serum osmolality, concentrated urine.
• Weight gain without edema can occur.

Memory hooks

• SIADH: too much water holds on, sodium diluted.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Sodium
• Serum osmolality
• Urine osmolality
• Urine specific gravity

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Low ADH or kidney resistance to ADH.
• Kidneys cannot concentrate urine, causing massive water loss and hypernatremia risk.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Monitor urine output, thirst, sodium, serum osmolality, weight, and dehydration signs.
• Replace fluids and give desmopressin if ordered for central DI.
• Protect safety with frequent urination and volume depletion.

Complications

• Dehydration
• Hypovolemic shock
• Hypernatremia

NCLEX cues

• Very dilute high-volume urine.
• High sodium and intense thirst.

Memory hooks

• DI is dry inside.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Water excess, sodium loss, SIADH, diuretics, GI losses, or adrenal issues.
• Low serum sodium shifts water into brain cells and causes neurologic symptoms.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Assess mental status, headache, nausea, weakness, and seizure risk.
• Institute seizure precautions for severe symptoms.
• Correct carefully as ordered and monitor sodium trends.

Complications

• Seizures
• Cerebral edema
• Falls

NCLEX cues

• Confusion with low sodium.
• Sodium swells or shrinks the brain.

Memory hooks

• Low sodium: brain swells.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Sodium below normal range
• Serum osmolality
• Urine studies when ordered

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Water loss or sodium gain from dehydration, DI, fever, diarrhea, or excess sodium.
• High sodium pulls water out of brain cells causing neurologic irritability and dehydration signs.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Assess thirst, dry mucosa, restlessness, confusion, and volume status.
• Replace free water carefully as ordered.
• Monitor sodium correction pace and safety precautions.

Complications

• Seizures
• Intracranial bleeding risk with rapid shifts
• Shock

NCLEX cues

• Very thirsty, dry, neurologic changes.
• DI can cause high sodium.

Memory hooks

• High sodium: brain shrinks.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Diuretics, GI loss, insulin shifts, poor intake, alkalosis.
• Low potassium weakens muscles and disrupts cardiac repolarization.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Monitor ECG, muscle weakness, bowel sounds, and potassium replacement safety.
• Never give IV potassium push.
• Clarify digoxin risk if potassium is low.

Complications

• Dysrhythmias
• Respiratory muscle weakness
• Ileus

NCLEX cues

• Weakness, U waves, constipation.
• Loop diuretics can cause it.

Memory hooks

• Low K slows muscles and irritates heart.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Kidney failure, tissue breakdown, ACE/ARB, potassium-sparing diuretics, acidosis.
• High potassium can rapidly disrupt cardiac conduction.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Place on cardiac monitor and assess ECG changes.
• Clarify potassium-raising medications and supplements.
• Prepare calcium, insulin/glucose, albuterol, binders, or dialysis pathway as ordered.

Complications

• Fatal dysrhythmias
• Cardiac arrest
• Muscle weakness

NCLEX cues

• Peaked T waves.
• K kills.
• AKI plus high K is urgent.

Memory hooks

• K kills.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Hypoparathyroidism, pancreatitis, kidney disease, vitamin D deficiency, massive transfusion.
• Low calcium increases neuromuscular excitability.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Assess tingling, tetany, cramps, seizures, and airway spasm.
• Use seizure precautions if severe.
• Monitor ECG/QT and administer calcium as ordered.

Complications

• Laryngospasm
• Seizures
• Dysrhythmias

NCLEX cues

• Chvostek/Trousseau signs.
• Pancreatitis can lower calcium.

Memory hooks

• Low calcium is twitchy.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Cancer, hyperparathyroidism, immobility, excess vitamin D/calcium.
• High calcium decreases neuromuscular excitability and affects kidneys, heart, and GI tract.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Encourage fluids if allowed and mobility.
• Monitor constipation, confusion, kidney stones, and ECG changes.
• Implement fall precautions.

Complications

• Kidney stones
• Dysrhythmias
• Dehydration
• Confusion

NCLEX cues

• Stones, bones, groans, psychiatric overtones.
• Shortened QT can occur.

Memory hooks

• High calcium slows and stones.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Alcohol use, malnutrition, diarrhea, diuretics, prolonged PPI use.
• Low magnesium increases neuromuscular irritability and can worsen low potassium/calcium.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess tremors, seizures, dysrhythmias, and electrolyte pairs.
• Monitor ECG and administer replacement safely.
• Address diarrhea or nutrition triggers.

Complications

• Torsades
• Seizures
• Refractory hypokalemia

NCLEX cues

• Twitchy like low calcium.
• Low Mg can keep K low.

Memory hooks

• Magnesium calms nerves and heart.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Kidney failure or excess magnesium administration.
• High magnesium depresses neuromuscular and respiratory function.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess reflexes, respirations, blood pressure, LOC, and urine output.
• Hold magnesium and notify provider for toxicity signs.
• Prepare calcium gluconate per protocol.

Complications

• Respiratory depression
• Cardiac arrest
• Hypotension

NCLEX cues

• Absent reflexes and slow respirations on magnesium.
• Calcium gluconate antidote.

Memory hooks

• Too much magnesium shuts down.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Insulin deficiency, insulin resistance, or both.
• Glucose cannot enter cells effectively, causing hyperglycemia and vascular/nerve complications.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Monitor glucose, hypoglycemia signs, foot care, infection risk, and diet/med timing.
• Teach sick-day rules and when to seek care.
• Inspect feet and promote routine eye/kidney follow-up.

Complications

• Hypoglycemia
• DKA/HHS
• Neuropathy
• Kidney disease
• Retinopathy

NCLEX cues

• Polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia.
• Never ignore low glucose symptoms.

Memory hooks

• Diabetes is sugar in blood, starving cells.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Too much insulin/medication, missed meal, exercise, alcohol, or illness.
• Low glucose deprives brain and sympathetic system triggers warning signs.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess glucose immediately for sweating, shakiness, confusion, or seizure.
• Give fast-acting carbohydrate if awake and able to swallow.
• Use glucagon or IV dextrose per protocol if unable to swallow.

Complications

• Seizures
• Brain injury
• Falls
• Coma

NCLEX cues

• Cold, clammy, shaky.
• Treat first if symptomatic and glucose is low.

Memory hooks

• Low sugar is now danger.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Insulin deficiency plus stress, infection, missed insulin, or new diabetes.
• Cells cannot use glucose, fat breakdown creates ketones, causing metabolic acidosis and dehydration.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess airway/breathing, dehydration, Kussmaul respirations, and mental status.
• Expect fluids, potassium monitoring, and insulin protocol.
• Monitor potassium because insulin shifts K into cells.

Complications

• Cerebral edema
• Hypokalemia during treatment
• Shock
• Dysrhythmias

NCLEX cues

• Fruity breath, Kussmaul respirations, ketones, acidosis.
• Check potassium before insulin infusion.

Memory hooks

• DKA: dry, ketotic, acidotic.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Glucose
• Ketones
• Anion gap
• Potassium
• ABG/VBG

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Severe hyperglycemia and dehydration, often in type 2 diabetes with infection or poor intake.
• Extreme glucose causes osmotic diuresis and high serum osmolality without prominent ketoacidosis.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess profound dehydration, mental status, and infection signs.
• Administer fluids and monitor electrolytes/glucose per protocol.
• Prevent falls and skin breakdown.

Complications

• Shock
• Seizures
• Thrombosis
• Coma

NCLEX cues

• Very high glucose, high osmolality, little/no ketones.
• Altered mental status from dehydration/osmolality.

Memory hooks

• HHS is high, hot, and horribly dry.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Excess thyroid hormone; Graves disease is autoimmune stimulation of thyroid receptors.
• Metabolism runs fast, increasing heart rate, heat production, and nervous system stimulation.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess tachycardia, heat intolerance, weight loss, tremor, and eye symptoms.
• Monitor for thyroid storm signs: fever, severe tachycardia, agitation.
• Teach antithyroid infection warning: fever or sore throat.

Complications

• Thyroid storm
• Atrial fibrillation
• Heart failure
• Eye injury in Graves

NCLEX cues

• High metabolism: hot, fast, thin, anxious.
• Thyroid storm is emergency.

Memory hooks

• Hyperthyroid equals high metabolism.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Low thyroid hormone from autoimmune disease, thyroid removal, iodine imbalance, or medications.
• Metabolism slows, causing cold intolerance, fatigue, bradycardia, and constipation.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess fatigue, cold intolerance, bradycardia, weight gain, and constipation.
• Teach consistent levothyroxine timing and lifelong therapy when indicated.
• Monitor for myxedema coma signs in severe cases.

Complications

• Myxedema coma
• Hyperlipidemia
• Infertility
• Depression

NCLEX cues

• Cold, slow, puffy, constipated.
• Overreplacement looks hyperthyroid.

Memory hooks

• Hypothyroid is low and slow.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Excess cortisol from steroids, adrenal disease, or pituitary ACTH excess.
• High cortisol causes catabolism, hyperglycemia, infection risk, and fluid/BP changes.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess glucose, blood pressure, infection signs, skin integrity, and muscle weakness.
• Teach steroid taper safety if caused by exogenous steroids.
• Use infection prevention and fall precautions.

Complications

• Infection
• Hyperglycemia
• Hypertension
• Osteoporosis
• Poor wound healing

NCLEX cues

• Moon face, truncal obesity, thin skin, striae.
• Do not stop steroids abruptly.

Memory hooks

• Cushing has too much cortisol: sugar, pressure, infection.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Adrenal insufficiency from autoimmune destruction, pituitary issues, or abrupt steroid withdrawal.
• Low cortisol and often low aldosterone reduce stress response, blood pressure, sodium, and glucose.

Medications

Nursing actions

• Assess hypotension, weakness, hyperpigmentation, nausea, and dehydration.
• Teach stress-dose steroid plan and medical alert identification.
• Treat adrenal crisis as emergency with fluids and steroids per protocol.

Complications

• Adrenal crisis
• Shock
• Hyponatremia
• Hyperkalemia
• Hypoglycemia

NCLEX cues

• Low BP, low sodium, high potassium.
• Abrupt steroid stop can cause crisis.

Memory hooks

• Addison needs added steroids and salt support.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Blood loss, low production, nutrient deficiency, chronic disease, or hemolysis reduces red cell mass.
• Lower hemoglobin reduces oxygen-carrying capacity and increases cardiac workload.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Assess fatigue, pallor, dyspnea, tachycardia, dizziness, and activity tolerance.
• Trend Hgb/Hct and identify bleeding or nutritional causes.
• Cluster care and teach iron/B12/folate guidance only when that cause is confirmed.

Complications

• Falls
• Hypoxia
• Heart strain
• Delayed wound healing

NCLEX cues

• Low Hgb/Hct plus fatigue and shortness of breath.
• Active bleeding changes priority to circulation.

Memory hooks

• Low red cells means low oxygen delivery.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Hgb/Hct
• Reticulocyte count
• Iron studies, B12, folate when ordered
• Stool occult blood if GI loss suspected

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Low platelet production, increased destruction, dilution, medications, infection, or immune process.
• Low platelets impair primary clot formation and increase bleeding risk.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Assess petechiae, bruising, mucosal bleeding, stool/urine blood, and neurologic changes.
• Use bleeding precautions and avoid unnecessary IM injections or rectal temperatures.
• Clarify anticoagulants/antiplatelets when platelet count is critically low.

Complications

• Hemorrhage
• Intracranial bleeding
• Shock

NCLEX cues

• Petechiae and low platelets.
• New severe headache with low platelets is urgent.

Memory hooks

• Platelets plug leaks.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Platelet count
• CBC trend
• Medication review
• Coagulation tests when ordered