What is Sputum?

You’re helping Mrs. Lopez with her morning routine when she has a coughing fit. She hands you a tissue, and you notice the substance inside...

What is a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)?

You walk into Mr. Henderson’s room to find him confused and struggling to speak, but by the time you return with the nurse five minutes...

What Are Ureters?

You’re halfway through your shift when Mr. Henderson mentions a dull ache in his lower back that won’t go away. While you might initially think...

What is Validation Therapy?

You’re helping Mr. Henderson get dressed for the day when he becomes agitated, insisting he needs to leave immediately to catch the school bus. You...

Understanding Healthcare Directives: What They Mean and Why They Matter

You’ve likely heard a family member ask, “Does Mom really want to go back to the hospital if she stops breathing?” or seen a specific...

What is Hemiplegia?

You’re helping Mr. Henderson get dressed after a stroke, and you notice he cannot move his left arm or leg at all, while his right...

What is Echemiparesis?

As you help Mr. Henderson get dressed for the day, you notice he struggles to pull his shirt over his left arm, while his right...

What is Etch and Roll?

As you walk into Mr. Henderson’s room to help him with breakfast, you notice his stroke-affected hand is resting comfortably on a pillow, cupped around...

What is a Draw Sheet?

You walk into Mr. Henderson’s room and notice he has slid down in bed, looking uncomfortable. Instead of straining your back or grabbing him under...

What is Dyspnea?

You’re helping Mr. Henderson walk back to his room after therapy when he suddenly stops, clutching the handrail and gasping for air. His chest is...