Get ready for the CCRN (R) and PCCN (R) certification examinations with this definitive resource! From the experts at the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, AACN Core Curriculum for Progressive and Critical Care Nursing, 8th Edition covers the knowledge and skills needed to prepare for certification exams and to provide safe and effective care in critical care settings. Content in this edition corresponds to the most recent CCRN (R) and PCCN (R) exam blueprints and reflects the latest in evidence-based practice. With its clear, outline format and comprehensive coverage of nursing competencies, this book is both a valuable study tool and a convenient clinical reference. Experts at the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) provide the definitive reference for progressive and critical care nursing care of adults. Concise outline format makes information easy to find and easy to digest. Basic to advanced levels of coverage emphasizes clinical nursing practice, preparing you with the full range of knowledge needed for optimal patient care in progressive and critical care settings. Key content in each body systems chapter includes an anatomy and physiology review, assessment, patient care, and specific patient health problems. Expert Tips and Key Concepts boxes highlight important content and serve as a quick reference. A companion to the AACN Procedure Manual, this book is a cornerstone of Elsevier's partnership with the leading organization in critical and acute care nursing, providing a guide to essential nursing competencies. NEW! Updated content corresponds to the most recent CCRN (R) and PCCN (R) examination blueprints and reflects the latest research evidence, clinical studies, national and international treatment protocols, the AACN/ANA scope of practice, and AACN's ECCO 3.0. NEW! Updated table of contents, chapter format, and full-color design make the book easier to read and use. NEW! Additional full-color illustrations, boxes, and tables enhance understanding and provide quicker access to need-to-know information in clinical practice.

Intensive care units (ICUs) provide comprehensive, advanced care to patients with serious or life-threatening conditions and consequently, a significant amount of end-of-life care (EOLC). Indeed, approximately 20% of deaths in the U.S. are associated with an ICU stay, and nearly half of U.S. patients who die in hospitals experience an ICU stay during the last 3 days of life. Despite the commonality of the ICU experience, ICU patients typically suffer from a range of distressing symptoms such as pain, fatigue, anxiety, and dyspnea, causing families significant distress on their behalf. Thus, there is a growing imperative for better provision of palliative care (PC) in the ICU, which may prevent and relieve suffering for patients with life threatening illnesses. Effective palliative care is accomplished through aggressive symptom management, communication about the patient and family's physical, psychosocial and spiritual concerns, and aligning treatments with each patient's goals, values, and preferences. PC is also patient-centered and uses a multidisciplinary, team-based approach that can be provided in conjunction with other life-sustaining treatments, or as a primary treatment approach. Failure to align treatment goals with individual and family preferences can create distress for patients, families, and providers. If implemented appropriately, palliative care may significantly reduce the health care costs associated with intensive hospital care, and help patients avoid the common, non-person centered treatment that is wasteful, distressing, and potentially harmful. Due to the success of many PC programs, administrators, providers, and accrediting bodies are beginning to understand that palliative care in the ICU is vital to optimal patient outcomes.