Critical care mnemonic: guide to the nursing care plan

Abstract

Introduction: The use of mnemonics is a tool that provides healthcare professionals with a mental framework for remembering key aspects of care; specifically, for the nursing care of critically ill patients, it is a strategy that reduces errors of omission and enables a reduction in morbidity and mortality and costs for healthcare institutions.

Objective: To present the critical care mnemonic, focused on nursing care for critically ill patients receiving invasive mechanical ventilation.

Development: The critical care mnemonic consists of an acronym, word, or short sentence that helps recall key information (in Spanish) about: C (oral care), U (pressure ulcers), I (inflate cuff), D (pain), A (patient hygiene), D (determine aspiration of secretions), O (eyes), S (sedation); C (head of bed 30-45°), R (catheter removal), I (check blood glucose), T (mechanical thrombus prophylaxis), I (identify arrhythmias), C (lip care), O (provide clubfoot prevention measures) S (tracheal tube clamping).

Conclusion: Mnemonics are a useful memory tool for learning and during clinical work, given the fact that they help recall complex medical knowledge necessary for the safety and quality of care for critically ill patients.