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The Cytokine Cascade or cytokine storm is a relatively recently described autoimmune response in which the body's immune system gets caught in a positive feedback loop leading to a runaway and potentially fatal autoimmune response. A cytokine cascade can be particularly troublesome treat as it is the normal response of a healthy immune system, and so treatment usually focusses on the active interference of the immune processes rather than treatment of the underlying infection. Cytokine cascades have been implicated in…

Sometimes the best way to learn is to observe. The popular perception of a cardioversion is that it's this high intensity, dramatic event with doctors and nurses running around like crazy. The reality is however that they are an almost relaxed affair, which is a testament to the teams experience and professionalism. remaining calm and focussed under pressure is a hallmark of health care professionals in the emergency setting. The list below depicts interesting cases I've come across during my travels through…

As the population ages, chronic diseases become more prevalent and doctors will usually prescribe medications to improve the quality of life for the patient. Medications have now become an essential component of modern healthcare, and nursing practice. While the nurse rarely prescribes medications, they spend a considerable amount of time administering them to their patients. I've compiled this list of common medications terms nurses may encounter during their practice. Remember, it is always important to understand the…

An imperforate hymen is a congenital disorder I which the hymen completely occludes the vaginal opening. It is one of the most common female genital tract malformations, occurring in approximately 1 in 2000 girls3. The condition arises due to a failure of the hymen to perforate during fetal development. The condition commonly goes unnoticed until adolescence when the girl passes the age of menarche5 and has not had a period (amenorrhea). Menstrual blood cannot flow freely from the vagina and backs up in the vagina…

Hematometra, otherwise known as hemometra is a condition in which blood is collected and retained in the uterus, commonly the result of an imperforate hymen or transverse vaginal septum. The physical obstruction of menstrual blood from the uterus causes a significant back up of menstrual blood over time, which can cause the uterus to enlarge, putting pressure on other pelvic organs, similar to in the case of hematocolpos. For this reason, the condition tends to worsen to longer the patient prolongs seeking medical…

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) - also known as Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (COLD) - is a chronic inflammation of the lungs that causes obstruction of airflow1 and ineffective airway clearance. It is commonly caused by distinct disease processes such as Emphysema and Chronic Bronchitis. COPD is generally caused by long-term exposure to irritating gasses or particulate matter such as those produced by cigarette smoke1. Asthma: Also known as Chronic Reactive Airway Disease is characterised by…