Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH)

Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH) is a topic covered in the Pocket ICU Management.

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Anesthesia Central is an all-in-one web and mobile solution for treating patients before, during, and after surgery. This collection of drugs, procedures, and test information is derived from Davis’s Drug, MGH Clinical Anesthesia Procedures, Pocket Guide to Diagnostic Tests, and PRIME Journals. Explore these free sample topics:

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First Things First (assess & treat for the following)

  • Check level of consciousness; determine airway patency and risk of aspiration.
  • Secure airway (i.e., intubate) if GCS is < 8; also consider early intubation if GCS is initially better but worsening.
  • Obtain a non-contrast CT scan of the head as soon as the patient is stable.
  • Monitor BP closely. Once presence of SAH is established, treat hypertension aggressively to limit further bleeding, until controlled by surgical clip or other intervention.
  • Maintain normocapnia and adequate oxygenation in intubated and mechanically ventilated patient.

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First Things First (assess & treat for the following)

  • Check level of consciousness; determine airway patency and risk of aspiration.
  • Secure airway (i.e., intubate) if GCS is < 8; also consider early intubation if GCS is initially better but worsening.
  • Obtain a non-contrast CT scan of the head as soon as the patient is stable.
  • Monitor BP closely. Once presence of SAH is established, treat hypertension aggressively to limit further bleeding, until controlled by surgical clip or other intervention.
  • Maintain normocapnia and adequate oxygenation in intubated and mechanically ventilated patient.

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Last updated: May 5, 2010