The “Samantha Higgins iHuman Case Study” is a comprehensive assignment designed for nursing students, particularly those enrolled in NURS 6550 at Walden University. This case study focuses on a patient, Samantha Higgins, who presents with a critical neurological condition. Understanding the complexities of her condition and the appropriate management strategies is crucial for developing the clinical decision-making skills required for advanced nursing practice.
In this article, we will explore the details of the Samantha Higgins iHuman case, her management plan, and how nursing students can navigate this assignment effectively. The keywords we’ll address include “NURS 6550-I-Human Case Samantha Higgins” and “Walden University I-Human Management Plan Samantha Higgins.”
Case Overview: Samantha Higgins iHuman Case Study
Samantha Higgins presents in the emergency department (ED) with severe neurological symptoms. According to the Hunt and Hess grading system, she is classified as Grade 2 due to the presence of a severe headache, stiff neck, and cranial nerve palsy but no other major neurological deficits. The Hunt and Hess grading system is a tool used to assess patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) based on their symptoms and neurologic examination findings.
Key Problem Lists for Samantha Higgins:
- Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH)
- Migraine
- Hypertension (HTN) with a family history (mother also had HTN)
- History of Bell’s Palsy
- History of Tension Headaches
Status and Current Condition:
- Critical condition
- Code Status: Full Code (full resuscitation if needed)
- Allergies: No known drug allergies (NKDA)
- Admitted to Unit: Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
- Activity Level: Bedrest
- Diet: Nothing by mouth (NPO) except for medications
Medications Administered:
- Keppra (antiepileptic)
- Labetalol (antihypertensive)
- Tylenol (acetaminophen, for pain/fever)
- Morphine Sulfate (opioid analgesic for pain management)
- Colace (stool softener)
Respiratory Support:
- 2L/NC titrate to RA: This means 2 liters of oxygen via nasal cannula, titrated to room air (RA), with a goal to maintain oxygen saturation above 92%.
Diagnostic Testing and Management Plan
To confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition, a Head CT scan is ordered for Samantha Higgins. This scan will help identify the location and extent of the subarachnoid hemorrhage, which is vital for planning her treatment and monitoring for potential complications.
Plan for Subarachnoid Hemorrhage:
- Labetalol: 10 mg IVP (intravenous push) every 8 hours as needed to control systolic blood pressure (SBP) above 160 mmHg. However, this medication should be held if the patient’s heart rate (HR) drops below 60 beats per minute.
- Keppra: Prescribed as a prophylactic treatment to prevent seizures, which are a common complication in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage.
- Tylenol: Administered to control fever and alleviate mild pain.
- Morphine Sulfate: 2 mg IVP every 4 hours as needed for moderate to severe pain. Morphine is particularly useful for controlling the intense pain associated with severe headaches.
- Colace: Given to prevent constipation, which is a side effect of morphine and bedrest.
The overall goal of the treatment plan is to manage Samantha’s subarachnoid hemorrhage, control her blood pressure, alleviate her pain, and prevent complications.
Samantha Higgins Case Analysis: Neurological Examination
Based on Samantha’s initial neurological examination in the emergency department (ED), she presents with Grade 2 symptoms per the Hunt and Hess grading system. This classification reflects her condition as serious, but without major neurologic deficits except for cranial nerve palsy. This system is used to predict the risk of complications and mortality in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage. Samantha’s symptoms include:
- Severe headache
- Stiff neck (nuchal rigidity)
- Cranial nerve palsy
Given her condition, Samantha requires constant monitoring in the ICU, as subarachnoid hemorrhage can rapidly deteriorate and lead to life-threatening complications like rebleeding or vasospasm. Her management plan focuses on stabilizing her neurologic status and preventing further damage.
Medications and Their Impact
Samantha Higgins has been prescribed a series of medications as part of her treatment plan. Here’s a breakdown of the key medications and their purposes:
- Keppra: An anti-epileptic drug, Keppra is used prophylactically to prevent seizures, a common complication in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage. Seizures can increase intracranial pressure, worsening the patient’s condition.
- Labetalol: This beta-blocker is essential for controlling Samantha’s blood pressure. High blood pressure can increase the risk of rebleeding in subarachnoid hemorrhage patients, so maintaining SBP below 160 mmHg is critical.
- Tylenol: Used to manage fever and mild pain. Fever can increase the body’s metabolic demands, which is dangerous in critically ill patients like Samantha.
- Morphine Sulfate: An opioid analgesic, morphine is given for severe pain management. Pain control is essential in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage, as it can reduce stress and prevent worsening of symptoms.
- Colace: This stool softener prevents constipation, which is a common side effect of opioid use and prolonged bedrest.
Nursing Considerations and Patient Monitoring
Managing Samantha Higgins requires close monitoring of her neurological status, vital signs, and response to treatment. Nursing care for patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage involves:
- Neurological Monitoring: Regular checks for changes in consciousness, pupil reactivity, motor responses, and signs of worsening cranial nerve palsy are essential. Any deterioration in neurological status must be reported immediately.
- Blood Pressure Monitoring: Labetalol is used to keep Samantha’s blood pressure within a safe range to prevent rebleeding. Continuous blood pressure monitoring and adjusting the medication as needed are critical for her recovery.
- Pain and Fever Management: Morphine and Tylenol are provided to control pain and fever. Effective pain management improves patient comfort and prevents additional stress on the brain.
- Respiratory Support: Samantha is on 2 liters of oxygen via nasal cannula, with titration to maintain her oxygen saturation above 92%. Ensuring adequate oxygenation is critical to prevent hypoxia, which can worsen her neurologic condition.
Walden University I-Human Management Plan for Samantha Higgins
As part of the NURS 6550 curriculum, the Samantha Higgins iHuman case study provides students with a real-world scenario to apply their clinical knowledge in a virtual patient environment. Students are expected to develop a comprehensive management plan for Samantha, focusing on stabilizing her condition and preventing further complications.
The case requires students to utilize evidence-based guidelines for managing subarachnoid hemorrhage and other neurological conditions. The management plan should include pharmacologic interventions, supportive care measures, and patient education on long-term management and follow-up care.
Key aspects of the I-Human Management Plan:
- Blood pressure control: Labetalol IVP is administered to manage hypertension, a crucial factor in preventing rebleeding in subarachnoid hemorrhage.
- Seizure prevention: Keppra is given to prevent seizures, which are a significant risk in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage.
- Pain and symptom management: Morphine sulfate and Tylenol are prescribed to manage Samantha’s severe headache, muscle pain, and fever.
- Close monitoring: Continuous monitoring of Samantha’s neurologic status, blood pressure, and respiratory function is critical in the ICU.
FAQs on Samantha Higgins iHuman Case Study Assignment Help
What is the Samantha Higgins iHuman Case Study in NURS 6550?
The Samantha Higgins iHuman case study is a virtual patient simulation used in the NURS 6550 course at Walden University. It focuses on a patient with a subarachnoid hemorrhage and other neurological conditions. Students are expected to assess her condition, create a management plan, and apply clinical decision-making skills.
What are the key issues in the Samantha Higgins iHuman Case Study?
The primary issues include a subarachnoid hemorrhage, hypertension, a history of Bell’s palsy, and migraine. Students must address these conditions by creating a treatment plan that includes medications, monitoring, and patient care.
What resources are available for completing the Samantha Higgins iHuman Case Study?
Students can use clinical textbooks, guidelines on managing subarachnoid hemorrhages, and expert help from case study assistance services. Online platforms can offer step-by-step guidance to help students navigate the case and create effective care plans.
What medications are used in the management of Samantha Higgins in the iHuman case?
Medications used include Keppra for seizure prevention, Labetalol for hypertension management, Morphine for pain relief, Tylenol for fever and mild pain, and Colace for preventing constipation.
How can professional assignment help benefit me in completing the Samantha Higgins iHuman Case Study?
Professional assignment help provides expert guidance on interpreting the case details, formulating a comprehensive care plan, and applying evidence-based practices. This support ensures that students understand the case deeply and meet their academic goals.
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