Acute biologic crisis (ABC) 

is a condition that may result to patient mortality if left unattended

in a brief  period of time. Its a condition that warrants immediate attention for the reversal of
disease process and prevention of further morbidity and mortality.
This module deals with the principles and dynamics of nursing care management of sick
clients across the lifespan with the emphasis on the adult and older person with
alteration/problems in acute biologic crisis. A solid knowledge foundation in concepts of
critical care 
nursing is essential for this practice.  Therefore, as future nurses you must also learn the
assessment and technical skills associated with management of the critically ill patient.
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Critical care nurses are responsible for making sure that critically ill patients and
members of their families receive close attention and the best care possible. This module
aims to provide the nursing students the knowledge, skills and attitude needed to
develop sound clinical judgment by exercising critical thinking skills in the care of clients
with problems in acute biologic crisis.
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Learning Outcomes
At the end of this module, the students should be able to:
   1. Discuss different Acute Biologic Crisis conditions together with the roles and
responsibilities of the nurse in the care of the following:
          a. Altered ventilatory functions (COPD. ARDS, CAP, COVID-19)
          b. Altered tissue perfusion (CHF, Acute Ischemic Heart Disease, MI, HPN crisis)
          c. Altered metabolic-gastrointestinal & Liver function (GI bleed, Liver failure,
Pancreatitis, DKA, IAH)
          d. Altered elimination ( ARF & CKD, ESRF)
          e. Altered perception (Traumatic brain injury - Stroke, Spinal cord injury)
           f. Multi-organ system problems (Shock, MODS, SIRS)
   2. Identify the appropriate ABC assessment, history taking, physical exam, diagnostic
procedure, and hemodynamic monitoring related to the identified alteration of the body
system
   3. Use critical thinking in describing nursing management of patients with problems in
ABC
   4. Integrate the nursing process and documentation in the care of the patient with an
alteration in ABC
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