‘Post-hospital syndrome’ in NEJM
“Post-Hospital Syndrome — An Acquired, Transient Condition of Generalized Risk,” in The New England Journal of Medicine, presents “post-hospital syndrome”…
Patient Safety / Quality
“Bundle” up to prevent pressure ulcers
Find out how to start a pressure ulcer prevention program on your unit or in your facility.
NEJM article addresses challenges of evaluating patient satisfaction
An article in The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) discusses the challenges of measuring patient experiences and provides guidelines…
10 modifiable risk factors explain 90% of stroke risk
A study published online by Lancet found that 10 modifiable risk factors are associated with 90% of the risk of…
6 surprising best resuscitation practices
Nothing is more important to the patient’s outcome than properly performed chest compressions.
A 200-year perspective on hospital costs and mortality
The New England Journal of Medicine has published an interesting article that traces mortality and hospital costs over 200 years…
A Case Study: Using Technology to Build a Culture of Safety
An emphasis on a culture of safety and appropriate use of technology help the organization deliver safer and more efficient health care.
A geriatric family-centered care model for hospitalized elders
This innovative model has helped reduce falls and pressure ulcers, and RN turnover rates have dropped as well.
A hospital’s Magnet® redesignation drive spurs efforts to improve patient safety
Magnet appraisers’ questions increase the author’s determination to reduce patient falls.
A little humor please
Laughter is a way of dealing with life’s stressors. Learning how to use humor to enrich our personal and professional…
A new patient-acuity tool promotes equitable nurse-patient assignments
When a 2 acuity rating isn’t truly a 2
A partnership to enhance outcomes through quality dashboards and action
Learn how a multidepartmental task force improved a hospital’s data display and action-planning tools
A question of disclosure: RNs often struggle with revealing their health conditions to employers
It’s no secret that Americans are living longer and that deaths from heart disease, stroke, and cancer are on the…
A ROADMAP involves patients and families in the plan of care
This electronic tool keeps patients and families informed on key aspects of care.
A roll-up-your-sleeves kind of hope
To reinvent health care, we need down-to-earth help and a roll-up-your sleeves kind of hope.
A troubled life, a difficult death
Editor’s note: National Homelessness Awareness Week is November 10-18. Like many of our homeless patients, “Sarah” was a bundle of…
A woman’s reproductive health: Clues to future heart disease?
Reproductive status, hormonal therapy, oral contraceptives, irregular menstrual cycles, and pregnancy complications may raise woman’s risk of cardiovascular disease.
A word about patients’ psychic experiences: Listen
In her dream, a young pediatric nurse answered the phone at the nurses’ station and was told to go to…
AACN endorses white paper on medication reconciliation
The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) recently endorsed a white paper that calls for system-wide programs for medication reconciliation…
Abbott withdraws Meridia from market
On Oct. 8, Abbott Laboratories voluntarily withdrew its weight loss drug Meridia (sibutramine) from the market in response to a…
Act fast when new neurologic deficits arise
Alert clinicians take immediate steps to eliminate a life threatening epidural hematoma.
Acts of kindness
Many of us have lasting memories of a few special patients. For me, Joe is one of those patients. The…
Adding NP to inpatient surgical team can reduce emergency department visits
A study published in Surgery found that adding a nurse practitioner (NP) to an inpatient surgical team reduced unnecessary emergency…
Adherence to SCIP not always associated with lower postop infections
A study in JAMA found that adhering to a global all-or-none composite infection-prevention SCIP (Surgical Care Improvement Project) score reduced…
Adult obstructive sleep apnea: Taking a patient-centered approach
Sleep apnea causes sleep deprivation and, over time,
can lead to serious physiologic changes.
Advancing adoption of the electronic health record
Experts at the federal level are working to actualize the promise of health information technology.
Adventures in virtual meetings
Tired of unproductive staff meetings held at inconvenient times? Had it up to here with being interrupted when trying to express your opinion? Maybe it’s time to explore alternatives to the traditional in-person meeting. One hospital unit did just that, and their online meeting forum helped them create new protocols in record time.
Advocating for patients in an era of drug-delivery problems
Learn what steps you can take to help patients avoid drug contamination and cope with drug shortages.
AHRQ provides guide for patients being discharged
Download “Taking Care of Myself: A Guide for When I Leave the Hospital,” from the Agency for Healthcare Research and…
AHRQ releases new guide for patients
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) has released a new guide to help hospitals better prepare patients to…
AHRQ reports results from survey on patient safety culture
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) has published “Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture: 2012 User Comparative Database…
Airway pressure release ventilation: A boost for spontaneous breathing
Many clinicians are using this mechanical ventilation mode to help reduce lung damage, pneumonia, and other complications of ventilation. Find out how it works, when it’s indicated, how it preserves spontaneous breathing, and why it reduces sedation requirements.
America’s Affordable Health Choices Act of 2009
Make a difference join ANA’s Health Care Reform Team
American Heart Association offers suggestions for patients on Avandia
After recent studies showed an increased risk of certainly cardiovascular conditions such as stroke for patients taking rosigilitazone (Avandia), the…
An evidence-based approach to creating a new nursing dress code
How should nurses dress? Should you wear a white uniform? Is jewelry appropriate on the job? A survey reveals what patients really think.
ANA ACTION ALERT: Proposed regulations could mean big opportunity for nurses
Hospitals operate under a type of rule book: one that dictates who can do what, when, and where in patient…
ANA addresses nurse-specific measures in health IT
The American Nurses Association (ANA) has long supported nurse-specific measures in health IT
ANA addresses shift work
ANA position statements address the hazards of shift work.
ANA awards five hospitals for outstanding nursing quality
The American Nurses Association (ANA) honored five hospitals Jan. 27 for achieving outstanding nursing quality, based on the nursing performance…
ANA comments on ACOs
In the political realm, there is intense debate on how to cut costs in the Medicare program without sacrificing services…
ANA participates in International Panel on Safe Patient Handling
Recognized as a champion of safe patient handling on a national level, the American Nurses Association (ANA) contributed expertise to…
ANA releases 2011 Health and Safety Survey results
ANA’s new survey identifies nurses’ concerns about health and safety in their work environments.
ANA signs on to letter affirming positive change in U.S. Public Health Service
ANA signs a letter of concern about proposed creation of an Office of the National Nurse.
ANA supports safe patient handling measures in Congress
“The Nurse and Health Care Worker Protection Act of 2009” (H.R. 2381) gets ANA approval.
ANA urges nurses to volunteer before disaster strikes
In the aftermath of the Haiti earthquake on Jan. 12, many nurses felt the urgent need to jump on a plane and hit the ground in Haiti to help treat and comfort the survivors, but were not sure how to go about it.
Analysis: Good communication enhances patient safety, satisfaction
A new report from HealthGrades finds that hospitals with the highest patient ratings in physician and nursing communications on average…
Applying a systematic approach to new-product assessment
Take the spontaneity out of new-product purchases to control costs and keep patients safe.
Applying the Magnet™ model to improve medication safety
A Baltimore hospital used the five Magnet components as a framework for
transforming its bedside medication administration process. Involving directcare
nurses in decision making was a key aspect of the project.
Are 12-hour shifts safe?
Is working 12 consecutive hours in a fast-paced, high stress, physically and mentally demanding environment a good idea? Click here…
Are extended work hours worth the risk?
Today, 75% of hospital nurses work 12-hour shifts. But studies
show a link between nurse fatigue and preventable medical errors.
Are we making progress against autism?
Scientists are learning more about this baffling disorder, but a cure is a long way off.
Are you an ABG ace?
Can you interpret arterial blood gas (ABG) values with confidence? To find out, test yourself with the case studies in this article.
Are you ready to care for patients in clinical trials?
Part 1 of a four-part series on clinical trials
Aromatherapy for you and your patient
Use fragrant oils to soothe muscles, relieve tension, and more.
Article provides guidance for nurses working with patients with vision loss
“Focusing your care: Working with clients with vision loss” in the Canadian Nurse provide informative guidance for nurses. Read the…
Assessing the seven dimensions of pain
Pain affects many aspects of your patient’s reality. Learn about the seven dimensions of pain and how to evaluate them.
Astute assessment saves a patient with PE
A nurse responds quickly to the patient’s distress.
Attacking anterior-wall myocardial infarction in time
More than 1 million Americans a year suffer a myocardial infarction (MI). This article tells you how – and how quickly – you need to respond to the most dangerous MI.
Attacking anterior-wall myocardial infarction in time
More than 1 million Americans a year suffer a myocardial infarction (MI). This article tells you how – and how quickly – you need to respond to the most dangerous MI.
Attitude: The power of human energy
Our thoughts, feelings, and disposition influence other people, not just because people see and read our facial expressions or body language, but because thoughts themselves are energy.
Baby pictures: Preserving precious moments in the NICU
For one nurse, taking pictures of preemies develops into an art form.
Bar coding effective for reducing med errors
Combining bar coding with an electronic medication-administration system (bar-code eMAR) substantially reduces transcription and medication administration errors according a study…
Beasts, gods and FaceTime: The anguish of visitor limitations during the COVID-19 pandemic
For the foreseeable future, efforts to minimize human contact will remain in place as part of the response to the…
Beasts, gods and FaceTime: The anguish of visitor limitations during the COVID-19 pandemic
For the foreseeable future, efforts to minimize human contact will remain in place as part of the response to the…
Behind the curtain: Creating an in situ simulation experience
Go "behind the curtain" to learn how simulation is being used to prepare hospital-based nurses for urgent situations.
Best practices for seasonal influenza immunization
Seasonal influenza and influenza-related complications are the most frequent causes of death from a vaccine preventable disease in the United…
Better care for patients with borderline personality disorder
Adult nurse practitioners (NPs) encounter patients with a wide range of challenging behaviors. Some of these behaviors can be especially…
Beyond a box of chocolates
Often, patients and families express their gratitude for a special nurse’s outstanding care with spoken thanks or heartfelt commendations written…
Beyond an interesting “read”
Nurse authors call on educators to incorporate IOM findings into education, practice.
Beyond customer service
Many nurses don’t like to hear their patients called “customers” or be told to provide “customer service.” This expert explains how to lose the lingo and adapt the principles of customer service to patient care.
Building a compelling business case for nursing and quality indicators
The author outlines how to make a business case for clinical quality measures, including how to use NDNQI data to substantiate your position.
Buying time for patients with acute liver failure
Managing the complications of acute failure, so your patient’s liver has time to regenerate.
C.A.R.E. to prevent medical device related pressure injuries
A facility’s innovative program effectively reduced patient injury. Takeaways: Learn how a nurse-led interprofessional innovation was designed at an organization…
Calculating I.V. drip rates with confidence
Do you sometimes have trouble remembering the equation you learned for calculating I.V. drip rates? This article presents a simplified equation that can make calculations quicker and easier – whether the medication order is written for mcg/kg/minute, mcg/minute, or mg/minute.
Calculating I.V. drip rates with confidence
Do you sometimes have trouble remembering the equation you learned for calculating I.V. drip rates? This article presents a simplified equation that can make calculations quicker and easier – whether the medication order is written for mcg/kg/minute, mcg/minute, or mg/minute.
Can a nurse be too old to work at the bedside?
Read guest blogger Donna Cardillo’s thought-provoking article about when age comes into play during a nurse’s career. A recent New…
Can teach-back reduce hospital readmissions?
A study shows this method helps educators focus on topics the patient doesn’t fully grasp.
Care during crisis
ANA brings nurses, experts together to shape practice policy during disasters
Care of clinical trial participants: What nurses need to know
The third in a series of articles on clinical trials from nurses at the National Cancer Institute.
Caring and advocating for school children
When we think about RN staffing issues, most of us immediately think about these issues in the context of hospitals…
Caring for a homeless adult with a chronic disease
For homeless people, chronic illnesses can be hard to manage. Here’s what you should know about assessing these patients and developing a practical discharge plan.
Caring for Caregivers: What Is Proven to Relieve Caregiver Strain and Burden?
Editor’s note: One of a series of articles on managing cancer-related symptoms from the Oncology Nursing Society. More than 1.5…
Caring for older lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender adults
Current discussions on the unique health issues of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) populations have prompted the healthcare professions…
Caring for patients in alcohol withdrawal
Be sure you’re prepared to care for patients with this condition
Caring for patients with Parkinson’s disease
Learn about assessment, intervention, and teaching for patients with this progressive debilitating disease.
Caring for patients with traumatic brain injuries: Are you up to the challenges?
Many patients face prolonged recovery and permanent disability after a traumatic brain injury. This article reviews appropriate assessment and intervention and highlights family care.
Carrots and sticks
The Stick—penalties for excess readmissions Is your hospital on the list? Starting this month, over 2,200 hospitals are forfeiting up…
Cartoonist with a cause
The cartoons of Theresa Garnero, APRN, BC-ADM, MSN, CED, help patients cope with diabetes.
Case study: Coerced consent
“Coercion is commonly said to invalidate consent, and that is always true if the source of the coercion is the physician.
Case Study: How much is enough?
Three-year-old Christy* has been in the hospital’s pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) since birth, when she was diagnosed with McCune-Albright…
Case Study: When is what you know considered confidential?
Five years ago, Jane Doe* was an inpatient at the XYZ Psychiatric Medical Clinic, being treated for long-standing cocaine use.…
CDC analysis of foodborne norovirus outbreaks
On June 3, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released “Vital Signs: Foodborne Norovirus Outbreaks — United States, 2009–2012.”…
CDC survey finds sexual violence and stalking is ‘widespread public health problem’ in the U.S.
According to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) nearly 1 in 5 women (18.3%…
Central venous catheter dressings put to the test
A nursing team’s research findings lead to hospital-wide savings.
Cerebral salt wasting: An overlooked cause of hyponatremia
Commonly confused with SIADH, cerebral salt wasting can result from such neurologic conditions as subarachnoid hemmorrhage, intracranial hemorrhage, ischemic stroke, intracranial surgery, and brain trauma.
Cervical Spine injuries: Preserving function, improving outcomes
How to provide skilled care that stops the damage and helps your patient manage the injury.
Challenging nursing’s sacred cows
Do you routinely instill normal saline solution into endotracheal tubes before suctioning? Use only the Glasgow Coma Scale for neurologic assessment? Evidence on these and other sacred cows of nursing practice might surprise you.
Chemical soup
ANA and state associations work to protect nurses and the environment from chemicals.
Choosing wisely: Resources for selecting sharps safety devices
An essential part of a sharps safety program is selecting appropriate devices, such as safety needles. While no one device,…
Clinical nurse leaders and clinical nurse specialists: harmonious partners
Collaboration between these two valuable resources depends on understanding how their roles differ.
Clinical trials 101
Don’t miss the second in a four-part series on clinical trials written by nurses from the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health, which covers phases of clinical trials, informed consent, ethics, and more.
CMA Lobbyists plan to protect nurses, patients, and public from harmful chemicals.
By Angela Song As the new U.S. Congress convenes this January, the ANA will present our legislative agenda with a…
Color awareness: A must for patient assessment
Color “blindness” may help minimize social and economic disparities, but can impede accurate patient assessment. The author explains why nurses should practice color awareness and tells how to adapt skin inspection for dark-skinned patients.
Colorado only state with obesity less than 20%
According to the report F as in Fat: How Obesity Threatens America’s Future 2010, Colorado stands alone as the state…
Combating medication verification workarounds in an electronic world
In the classic report To Err is Human: Building a Safer Health System, the Institute of Medicine reported that at…
Communicating with intubated patients: A new approach
Learn how one hospital improved communication between nurses and intubated patients through the use of an algorithm,
new communication devices, and a focused communications course for nurses.
Confronting racism in health care
Our editor-in-chief discusses the issue of race in health care.
Controlling blood glucose in hospital patients
Recent studies shed light on the importance of maximizing glycemic control in inpatients with diabetes.
Protected: CRE: Not your average multidrug-resistant organisms
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Creating a smooth move for patients and staff
When Missouri Baptist Medical Center had to relocate nearly 200 patients in a single day, staff and leaders knew collaboration and planning would be key. Here’s how they did it.
Daily sedation breaks and breathing trials help wean patients from ventilators safely
For patients on mechanical ventilators, daily sedation cessation can decrease
ventilator, ICU, and hospital days. Careful use of safety screens is
crucial for patient safety and successful weaning.
Dangers of the 12-hour shift
Rose Sherman has a thoughtful blog on nursing’s “third rail”—the 12-hour shift. In the blog, she notes that although nurses…
Dear Members of Congress
In an open letter to Congress, Dr. Cipriano urges legislators to leverage nurses’ knowledge, skills, and abilities to help bring order to a chaotic healthcare system.
Déjà vu all over again
Some people simply can’t learn from the past—even the fairly recent and painful past.
Delegating without doubts
With this decision tree as your guide, you’ll delegate tasks to assistive personnel with confidence.
Demystifying literature reviews
Every nurse should understand evidence-based practice and the terms used in literature reviews.
Despite efforts C. difficile remains significant problem in hospitals
According to “2013 Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) Pace of Progress Survey: Results of an online poll of infection preventionists,” 70%…
Diagnosing and managing cough
Check out these highlights from the American College of Chest Physicians’ new guidelines.
Differences among physicians, risk managers in admitting errors
Differences in attitudes among physicians and risk managers about revealing medical errors to patients may diminish the effectiveness of such disclosures, according to a new study published in the March 2010 issue of The Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety.
Differentiating diabetes complications: What’s your call?
A patient who collapsed at home arrives at the hospital with a blood glucose level off the charts, plus extreme thirst and polyuria. Think his diagnosis is cut and dried? Think again.
Differentiating research, evidence-based practice, and quality improvement
All nurses should know and understand the differences among these three concepts.
Disposal dilemmas in home health care
Learn the proper way to dispose of sharps and waste pharmaceuticals used in the home.
Do no harm
Our editor-in-chief tackles the issue of mandatory flu vaccination.
Do you hear what I hear? Combating alarm fatigue
As you enter your unit to begin your shift, a cacophony of alarms from multiple devices greets you. The cacophony…
Does evidence-based nursing increase ROI?
A quality-improvement initiative quantified return on investment (ROI) from cost avoidance for five healthcare-acquired conditions.
Doing the most good
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 provides many benefits.
Doing the right thing: Pathways to moral courage
Learn how to prepare yourself for the ethical and moral dilemmas you’re likely to encounter in the workplace.
Don’t tolerate disruptive physician behavior
No matter if you like – or fear – a doctor who behaves badly, you must report the incident for the sake of the staff, the patients, the institution.
Don’t forget ‘and mobility’
Mobility is an integral component of safe patient handling.
Don’t get ‘caught’ in the CAUTI trap
Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI), the most common healthcare-associated infection, can be deadly.
Don’t use injector devices for flu vaccines, states FDA
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration advises healthcare professions not to use injector devices to administer influenza vaccines. Currently only…
Drug errors harm 1.5 million people each year, report finds
In a new report, the Institute of Medicine concludes that at least 25% of harmful adverse drug events are preventable, and recommends specific preventive actions for nurses and other healthcare workers.
Drug shortages unprecedented says ISMP
The July 29 issue of the Institute for Safe Medication Practice’s ISMP Medication Safety Alert! states that the number of…
Drug therapy gets personal with genetic profiling
In the not-so-distant future, the science of pharmacogenetics may
enable clinicians to give the right drug in the right dosage to the
right patient—in every case.
Drugs in the environment: Nurses’ roles and responsibilities
Editor’s note: This issue of American Nurse Today offers three perspectives on medication disposal, designed to educate nurses on this important issue so they can serve as advocates and teach their patients properly.
Drugs Today – February 2009
WEB EXCLUSIVE! An update of drug news, including alerts, approvals, and removals.
Drugs Today – January 2009
Web Exclusive! An update of drug news, including alerts, approvals, and removals.
Drugs Today – June 2008
An update of drug news, including alerts, approvals, and removals.
Drugs Today – September 2008
Web Exclusive! An update of drug news, including alerts, approvals, and removals at www.AmericanNurseToday.com/journal.
Early imaging reduces length of stay
According to the study “Patients Imaged Early During Admission Demonstrate Reduced Length of Hospital Stay: A Retrospective Cohort Study of…
ECRI names top 10 health technology hazards for 2012
ECRI Institute’s top 10 health technology hazards for 2012 include alarm hazards, medication errors when using infusion pumps, enteral feeding…
ECRI releases top 10 health technology hazards for 2011
ECRI Institute has released its Top 10 Lists of Health Technology Hazards for 2011: radiation therapy dose errors, alarm hazards,…
Emerging infectious threats: Respiratory protection for personal safety
Many experts think a flu pandemic (perhaps the swine flu) is inevitable, underscoring the need for all healthcare workers
to learn how to use respirators properly.
Engage Introducer recalled
On Aug. 13, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the recall of 6 French Engage Introducers manufactured between…
Enhancing patient outcomes with sequential compression device therapy
Use sequential compression devices effectively to help achieve the best possible outcomes for patients.
Ensuring quality and saving time
The National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators® tracks the care nurses provide, helping to improve nursing practice, patient outcomes, and the work environment.
Environment, health and safety
ANA has been very concerned with and involved in the issue of ergonomic hazards as a health and safety concern…
Environment, health, & safety
With the growing reuse of single-use medical devices, ANA supports improvements in end-of-use product management and research on ethical and safety issues related to these devices.
Essential elements of a comprehensive sharps injury-prevention program
The steps outlined below can help facilities significantly reduce sharps injuries.
Ethics and the quality of care
Leah Curtin discusses the issue of quality care from an ethical perspective.
Ethics case study: Poor staffing results in brain-damaged patient
Author Leah Curtin discusses the ethical issue of short staffing.
Evaluating the neurologic status of unconscious patients
Assessing the neurologic status of unconscious or comatose patients can be a challenge because they can’t cooperate actively with your…
Evidence-based interventions for dyspnea
Editor’s note: One of a series of articles on managing cancer-related symptoms from the Oncology Nursing Society. Dyspnea is “a…
Eye of the beholder: Grand rounds at the museum
“What do you see in his eyes?” asks Dr. Rothenberg. After a brief pause, someone replies, “He looks sad.” Another…
Facing up to widespread obesity
Facing up to widespread obesity – a reality check on a very real epidemic.
Faculty shortfall
Helen O’Shea, PhD, RN, hasn’t retired completely from her role as a nurse educator, and that is very fortunate, for…
Faith, community, and health: Partnerships with good neighbors
Our editor-in-chief turns a spotlight on faith and community partnerships.
Fall prevention safety bundle: Collaboration leads to fewer falls
At St. Joseph’s Hospital and Health Center in Syracuse, NY, we’re committed to providing a safe, comfortable, caring environment for our patients.…
Fall prevention: A contract with patients and families
Editor’s note: This is the second of three case studies describing success stories in preventing falls and injuries from falls. The…
Fall prevention: Applying the evidence
This is the first in a series of three case studies illustrating success stories in preventing falls and injuries from…
Family history as a genetic assessment tool: Where are the resources?
Learn the value of a genetic history and resources for how to conduct one.
Family initiated rapid response team
Rapid response isn’t just for staff. More hospitals are allowing, even encouraging, patients and their families to make the call for help.
Family presence during resuscitation: Who decides?
Effective communication enables nurses and physicians to negotiate a collaborative decision that honors the family’s wishes.
FDA approves single REMS for transmucosal immediate-release fentanyl products
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a single shared Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) for transmucosal immediate-release…
FDA changes sunscreen labeling requirements
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has revised requirements for sunscreen labeling. The final rule takes effect by summer…
FDA launches new website on safe disposal of ‘sharps’
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has launched a new website for patients and caregivers on the safe disposal of…
FDA orders recall of Baxter infusion pumps
On May 3, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that it has ordered Baxter Healthcare Corp. to recall…
FDA posting postmarketing drug safety evaluations
You can access U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) postings on postmarketing drug safety evaluations online. For more information, click…
FDA publishes REMS list
Access a list of Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies (REMS) required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Read…
FDA recommends manufacturers stop using ‘latex-free’ labeling
On March 29, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommended that manufacturers stop using labels such as “latex-free” or…
FDA warns against counterfeit Adderall
On May 29, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned consumers and healthcare professionals about a counterfeit version of…
FDA warns of potential risk of liver injury in ADPKD patients taking Samsca
On Jan. 25, 2013, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration notified healthcare professionals of significant liver injury associated with the…
FDA, NIOSH, and OSHA ‘strongly encourage’ use of blunt-tip suture needles
On May 30, the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and…
Fine-tuning your feeding-tube insertion skills
Even if you’re accustomed to inserting feeding tubes, the procedure can cause complications. The authors provide safety guidelines to help you make feeding-tube insertion safer.
Five strategies to help prevent nurses’ patient-handling injuries
For too many years, musculoskeletal injuries from moving patients have been common among practicing nurses. It’s time to put all of our energy— both…
Food in the fight against cancer: The evidence on cancer-related anorexia
Among the many treatments and supportive interventions for cancer, nurses and patients must not overlook a foundation of health—good nutrition. A proper diet during cancer treatment and beyond is essential for patients to feel better, have the strength needed to fight the disease, and maintain wellness.
Formula for success: Deliver enteral nutrition using best practices
Between 30% and 50% of adults admitted to U.S. hospitals are malnourished. This article explains how to provide nourishment while achieving better outcomes and shorter hospital stays.
Free radicals: What are they and why should nurses care about them?
Understanding free radicals at the cellular level can help focus our care practices.
From our readers: On being an oncology nurse, or humble pie by the slice
I came to oncology nursing in 1984 through what I perceived as bad luck; my goal was to get out…
From our readers: One nurse’s journey into patienthood
As I lay on the table staring up at the ceiling tiles and waited for my biopsy to begin, I…
From our readers: Overtime is only fun in baseball: A somber look at mandatory overtime and nursing care
The author reviews issues surrounding mandatory overtime.
From our readers: Resolving the forces of bias and duty in caring for incarcerated patients
In the nurses’ station of the 39-bed med-surg unit I double-checked my patient’s 2:00 PM medications against the pharmacy sheet…
From our readers: The art of self-disclosure
One aspect of the “art” of nursing is appropriate self-disclosure. Nurses and other healthcare providers often have an opportunity to…
From our readers: What it means to be a nurse
A nurse shares her meaning of nursing.
From our readers…A case study of implementing an injury prevention program
The authors explain how they successfully implemented an injury prevention program.
From our readers…Balancing the power in favor of patients
Ms. Sims, a bedside nurse featured by Leah Curtin earlier this year inspired me to write this article. At the…
From our readers…Creating a patient/family advisory board
Today’s nurse is challenged to procure the skills and knowledge to facilitate healthy work environments in order to achieve best…
From our readers…Hourly rounding benefits patients and staff
Studies have shown hourly rounding decreases call light usage and unit noise levels, increases patient satisfaction, and reduces falls. Some…
From our readers…Know your A, B, C, and D’s for patients with progressive disease
“Something’s wrong. We have to fix it quickly!” All of our training and experiences as nurses, such as my almost…
From our readers…Negative effects of shackling pregnant incarcerated women
The author advocates for more respectful treatment of pregnant women who are incarcerated.
From our readers…Nonadherent or compassion challenged?
Over the years nurses have labeled patients who choose (knowingly or unknowingly) to disregard instructions that could potentially alter their…
From our readers…Strategies for Implementing an Effective Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners Program (SANE)
SANE nurses help ensure victims of sexual assault receive the compassionate care they need and collect evidence that can be used in court.
From our readers…The nature of grief
A wise person once said, “Grief is not a disease or pathology to be cured. Grief is the tangible evidence…
From our readers…Three elephants for safety
A familiar safety protocol in hospitals is the time-out. Mandated for many invasive procedures, this “work stop” ensures the right…
From the other side of the bed
How long has it been since you looked at the ambience of a hospital with a critical eye? If you…
From your ANA President
Nurses are natural innovators. Let’s recognize our strengths as
innovators and share our ideas on multiple platforms.
From Your ANA President
HAVING WORKED in an emergency department for more than 20 years, I know what it’s like to have to think…
FTC supports APRN practice in new report
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has released “Policy Perspectives: Competition and the Regulation of Advanced Practice Nurses (APRNs),” which cautions…
Funding the future of nursing
What do ANA members Pamela Mitchell, Elaine Larson, Ann Rogers, and Dorothy Brooten have in common? Early in their careers,…
Fusing Magnet® and just culture
The author describes the beneficial alignment of just culture concepts Magnet® principles.
Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act signed into law
The federal government bans genetic job discrimination; ANA backs the Kid Safe Chemicals Act.
Get Savvy to syncope
Syncope is a common occurrence and is commonly benign. But sometimes a swoon signals a serious underlying condition. Learn what causes syncope and how to assess and intervene for a patient who has just experienced it.
Getting to the root of the root-cause analysis problem
With national attention focused on the unacceptable prevalence of medical errors, the healthcare sector has turned to highly reliable industries,…
Giving from the heart
The December calendar lights up with many religious and cultural celebrations such as Hanukkah, Islamic New Year, Christmas, and Kwanza,…
Going from the gut
The current emphasis on best practices, guidelines, and checklists make cause healthcare professionals to turn off their judgment and go by the book – even when it’s the wrong thing to do.
Good intentions eclipsed
Leah Curtin discusses how negative effects of work on work/life balance and mandatory overtime affect patient care.
Gorillas, restraints, and moral blind spots
Leah Curtin discusses a restraint situation.
Guiding your patients through menopause
The more you know about menopause, the more you can help patients understand and cope with symptoms.
Handling with care: The bariatric patient
Technological advances, special equipment, and screening algorithms help healthcare facilities and nurses meet the needs of bariatric patients while reducing worker injury.
Have we lost our ability (and our sensitivity) to communicate in healthcare?
Read Donna Cardillo’s October blog here.
Headlines from the Hill
ANA’s legislative agenda introduced in the 113th Congress
Headlines from the Hill
Find out what has been accomplished during the 112th Congress and what healthcare professionals stand to lose if our country goes over the "fiscal cliff."
Headlines from the Hill
The RN Safe Staffing Act and what it means for you
Healing the wounds: Quantum nursing V
Quantum nursing demands that nurses honor each person’s
humanity, promote independence and autonomy, and offer the
opportunity for individuals to redefine for themselves who they are and how they choose to live.
Healthcare immunization: Protecting coworkers and the community
Health care professionals are at high risk for exposure to vaccine-preventable diseases and infections. Safeguard yourself, your patients, and your…
Healthcare needs a swoosh
Does healthcare need its own type of “swoosh” as a daily inspiration for us to do the right thing without hesitation? Our Editor-in-Chief answers that question and explores the issue of safety in healthcare.
Healthcare reform: Resolve to increase your knowledge in 2014
Find out how the Affordable Care Act is reforming health care and how it could affect your practice.
Helping patients adhere to a gluten-free diet
Avoiding gluten isn’t easy. Here’s what you need to know to keep patients compliant with a gluten-free diet.
Helping patients navigate end-of-life issues
An ANA Workgroup is drafting position statements on end-of-life issues.
Herbal facts, herbal fallacies
Your sister-in-law gets frequent migraines and wants to try a “natural” therapy to help prevent them. A preoperative patient tells…
HHS releases modifications to HIPAA privacy, security, enforcement, and breach notification rule
On Jan. 17, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released “Modifications to the HIPAA Privacy, Security, Enforcement, and…
High-alert drugs: Strategies for safe I.V. infusions
About 80% of all deaths from medication errors are caused by some 20 drugs. This article gives you evidence-based strategies for preventing errors with these deadly drugs.
High-energy drinks: What you don’t know could hurt you
High-energy drinks carry risks nurses need to know.
Holistic nursing: Focusing on the whole person
How well do you know holistic nursing? Expand your knowledge with this article.
Hook-and-loop alarm belt: A vital component in a fall-prevention toolkit
Editor’s note: This is one in a series of recurring case studies describing success stories in preventing falls and injuries…
Hospital patients with chronic diseases at risk for unintentional stoppage of medications
A study in JAMA found that patients with chronic diseases who are admitted to the hospital are at increased risk…
Hospital volume associated with better survival in patients with head and neck cancer
“Hospital volume is associated with survival but not multimodality therapy in Medicare patients with advanced head and neck cancer,” published…
Hospital-acquired infections mortalities, costs
Two common conditions caused by hospital-acquired infections killed 48,000 people and ramped up health care costs by $8.1 billion in 2006 alone, according to a study released Feb. 22 in the Archives of Internal Medicine.
Hospitals Explore Innovative Nurse Retention Strategies
Hospitals know that it’s less expensive to retain the nurses they have than to recruit, train and place new ones. This has led hospitals and other facilities to continue to look for new and creative ways to keep their nurses right where they are.
How a “just culture” can improve safety in health care
In April, reports surfaced of air traffic controllers asleep on the job. Frightening audio clips of airline pilots hearing nothing…
How Magnet® designation affects nurse retention: An evidence-based research project
A positive work environment and nurse satisfaction can improve nurse retention.
How the candidates want to change health care
Web exclusive! See what Senators McCain and Obama say they’ll do to fix our broken healthcare system.
How to achieve success in quality improvement
To achieve sustained improvement in patient outcomes, create a work environment that promotes a commitment to excellence and examine NDNQI data on your organization’s current performance level.
How to deliver bad news
Healthcare providers often must give bad news to patients and families. Doing this in a direct, concise, compassionate way is a skill that equired practice.
How to make the most of your nursing minutes
Feel like you’re running in place sometimes? Heed advice of the author of this article.
How to prevent falls among older adults in outpatient settings
The author provides tips for preventing falls.
Huddle up for patient safety
You have received report on your patients and are starting your shift on a busy medical-surgical unit. To help control…
Human factors engineering can improve patient safety
Knowing how nurses interact with the environment can help safeguard patients.
I have diabetes. How do I live with it?
A colorful teaching tool can help your patients understand and control this chronic disease.
Improving depression screening in patients with chronic illness
Don’t miss an opportunity for health promotion and improvement in disease management by failing to assess patients with chronic illness for depression.
Improving insulin adherence in diabetes care
By addressing patients’ concerns, you can help them adhere to insulin therapy with less pain and anxiety.
Improving pain care for combat injured soldiers and veterans
By Rosemary C. Polomano, PhD, RN, FAAN Advances in battlefield trauma management have significantly improved survival among military personnel injured…
Improving pain management: Call to action
Less pain means a great gain for patients. Learn about ANA’s agenda to improve the management of chronic and acute pain.
Improving palliative care and communication in the ICU
Looking for more information on evidence-based practices? Read this first article in a series from the National Institute of Nursing Research.
Improving patient education with Health Failure Mode and Effects Analysis
Learn how this tool helped an ICU analyze and correct flaws in its patient-education process
Improving the care of stroke patients
Is your facility doing enough to help stroke patients survive and regain functional independence? Find out how a national evidence-based initiative helps hospitals deliver better stroke care.
In God we trust. All others – show me the data.
Ms. Patton makes it perfectly clear why she loves and believes in ANA’s National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators.
Infection control for lifts and slings
Your guide to keeping lifts and slings free from infection.
Infection control lapses common in ambulatory surgical centers
According to an article in the June 9 issue of JAMA, 46 of 68 ambulatory surgical centers in three states…
Infusion pump resource from FDA
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has devoted a section of its website to infusion pump safety. It includes a…
International home care conference
The Second International Home Care Nurses Organization Conference: Person-centred care in home-based nursing-service models, nursing roles and competencies will be…
Introducing the quantum patient
The quantum patient is an indivisible human being whose health
problems might not be healed through traditional specialization.
Investigating nurses’ dressing change techniques
Original nursing research explores nurses’ rationales for using sterile technique instead of clean technique in particular circumstances – and reveals wide practice discrepencies.
Is diagnosis of pressure ulcers within an RN’s scope of practice?
If you’re unsure whether pressure ulcer diagnosis is within an RN’s scope of practice, President Patton provides an answer based on ANA’s Scope and Standards of Nursing Practice.
Is the school nurse in?
ANA promotes strategies to help meet students’ health and safety needs.
ISMP issues guidelines for standard order sets
Access guidelines, developed by the Institute for Safe Medication Practices, for standard order sets here.
Issues up close
Care coordination: Nurses lead the way.
Issues up close
ANA has joined the Partnership for Patients to improve patient safety.
Issues up close
ANA’s House of Delegates recently approved a resolution supporting health
care for all. The author examines the social, economic, and political ramifications of undocumented immigrants’ lack of access to health care.
Issues up close
To increase health literacy, we need to educate patients and consumers about health issues in a more meaningful, individualized, and patient-oriented way.
Issues up close
How NDNQI® data are helping top hospitals improve nursing quality
It’s all in the translation
Read about a valuable health-education resource for foreign-language patients.
Joining the fight for safe staffing: Q&A with Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite
Interview by Michelle M. Artz, MA Last November, Rep. Ginny Brown-Waite (R-FL) joined with Rep. Lois Capps (D-CA) to introduce…
Joint Commission issues Sentinel Event Alert on opioid use in hospitals
On Aug. 8, The Joint Commission released the Sentinel Event Alert, “Safe use of opioids in hospitals.” The Alert warns…
Joint Commission proposes alarm management as 2014 National Patient Safety Goal
The Joint Commission is inviting comments on its proposed 2014 National Patient Safety Goal on management of alarms. The 15-question…
Joint Commission releases Sentinel Event Alert on healthcare work fatigue and patient safety
On Dec. 14, The Joint Commission issued a Sentinel Event Alert on healthcare worker fatigue and patient safety. Read the…
Jump into action against aspiration pneumonia
The author covers how to recognize and treat this serious complication.
Just culture promotes a partnership for patient safety
The authors explain how workplaces can move toward just culture,
which recognizes that errors may be systemic rather than personal.
Keep consumer hand lotions at home
Are you using the right hand lotion at work?
Keeping asthma at bay
NIH has updated its guidelines on asthma diagnosis and treatment. Learn how to help your asthma patients lead fuller lives.
Keeping genetic information confidential
What you should know about the new federal law.
Keeping watch: Enhancing fall prevention through targeted video surveillance
Nurses who work in hospitals are challenged to identify patients at risk for falling and implement initiatives to keep them…
Key concepts in patient-centered care
Respect, communication, and comfort are essential to ensuring that care focuses on the patient first.
Last Breath: The ethics of pharmacologic paralysis
Should patients receive neuromuscular blockers while mechanical ventilation is withdrawn?
Lean tools and concepts reduce waste, improve efficiency
By putting lean principles in action, a health network has shortened stays,
improved patient satisfaction, and decreased ED-to-bed times.
Leapfrog Group says hospital safety improvements too slow
The Fall 2013 update to The Leapfrog Group Hospital Safety Score shows many hospitals are making headway in addressing errors,…
Learning the language of pediatric heart sounds
Use these tips and techniques to identify heart sounds and murmurs in children.
Letters to the Editor
A wrenching decision As a nursing student, I’ve been present on several occasions when a patient has coded. So your…
Letters to the Editor – April 2007
Provocative cover art? Although I’m impressed with the overall quality of your publication, the cover of your February issue (“Heart…
Letters to the Editor – August 2008
Nursing pins, nursing pride I read the letter “Nursing school pin: Not for sale at any price” in your June…
Letters to the Editor – December 2008
A glimmer of hope after breast cancer I want to thank Mary K. Hughes for her article “Sex after breast…
Letters to the Editor – July 2008
Sacred cows and road runners American Nurse Today is one of the few publications I look forward to receiving, and…
Letters to the Editor – June 2007
Float or be fired? The February article “Protecting yourself from malpractice claims” states, “Don’t accept assignments if you’re not sure…
Letters to the Editor – May 2007
Show us the money I agree wholeheartedly with the idea of employing nurses in or near retirement to increase the…
Letters to the Editor – May 2008
Dimensions of pain distraction I read with applause “Assessing the seven dimensions of pain” in the February issue. I work…
Letters to the Editor – November 2007
A timely expression of support “Being with dying” in the September issue was timely for my staff and me. I…
Letters to the Editor – November 2008
Easy and inexpensive Thank you for Susan Fetzer’s excellent article, “Putting a stop to postop nausea and vomiting,” in the…
List of Supporting Organizations for Moving the Sharps Safety Agenda Forward in the United States: Consensus Statement and Call to Action
Background: The International Healthcare Worker Safety Center (IHWSC) at the University of Virginia drafted and began circulating the consensus statement…
Little Progress in fight against health care-associated infections, says AHRQ
Most health care-associated infections continue to increase, according to the 2009 National Healthcare Quality Report and National Healthcare Disparities Report…
Long-term cancer survivorship nurse practitioner care model promotes patient quality of life
It’s not uncommon for cancer patients to say they classify themselves as a cancer survivor by having lived at least…
Long-term health outcomes of childhood sexual abuse
The consequences of childhood sexual abuse continue into adulthood. Here’s what can occur and how you can help these patients.
Making a stand against malignant melanoma
Summer sizzles on, sun-worshipers soak up the rays. Years later, your ability to detect melanoma in its early stages could spell the difference between a patient’s prompt treatment and a grim prognosis.
Making community health care culturally correct
Cultural awareness can lead to better outcomes.
Making the case for Magnet® designation to the C-suite
How to convince senior executives that the Magnet journey is well worth the expense
Making the transformation to a customer-service orientation
This article describes how to boost patient satisfaction and loyalty.
Managing atrioventricular blocks
Not all AV blocks are dangerous. Find out which ones are and how they’re managed.
Managing end-of-life symptoms
For patients nearing death, palliative care can enhance quality of life by easing pain and other symptoms, improving sleep, and reducing fatigue. Managing end-of-life symptoms
Managing skin reactions to targeted cancer therapy
What to do when life-saving chemotherapy causes a disfiguring rash.
MARS®: The new frontier in treating acute liver failure
A type of dialysis, MARS removes toxins and replaces
lost liver functions.
Medical-surgical value analysis aims high above the bottom line
Standardization of medical-surgical products across hospitals and health systems can have significant benefits in cost savings, employee satisfaction, and the…
Medication adherence pays prompts lower healthcare costs
A study in Health Affairs found that the increased pharmacy costs associated by medication adherence was offset by a substantial…
Medication errors: Best Practices
A medication error can occur in any healthcare setting-with devastating consequences. The authors describe weaknesses in the key elements of medication use and propose ways to make drug therapy safer.
Medication name change proposed
The United States Pharmacopeia (USP) has proposed changing the name of hydromorphone to reduce medication errors caused by confusion with…
MedWatch marks 20-year anniversary
One June 3, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) posted an article commemorating the 20th anniversary of MedWatch, which…
Meeting your patients spiritual needs
When a patient says, “I’m afraid I’m going to die,” do you offer empty reassurances? Find an excuse to leave the room? Read this article to learn about simple spiritual interventions that can aid a patient in spiritual distress.
Memory pegging
Forgetting is frustrating. To make memorizing fun, “peg” each item on your to-do list.
Mission: Achieve continual readiness for Joint Commission surveys
Surviving surprise visits can be easier if you use the author’s “E” approach.
Mitral valve repair: A new choice
Learn the advantages of repairing a mitral valve instead of replacing it.
Model act helps out-of-state healthcare professionals volunteer during disasters
ANA supports efforts to advance model legislation that would help healthcare workers seeking to volunteer in disasters.
More hospital observation units could save $3.1 billion a year
“Making Greater Use Of Dedicated Hospital Observation Units For Many Short-Stay Patients Could Save $3.1 Billion A Year,” published in…
Motivational interviewing: A collaborative path to change
Michael had diabetes and a history of elevated blood glucose levels. A long-time drinker, he seemed to have no interest…
Moving the Sharps Safety Agenda Forward: Consensus Statement and Call to Action
Note: This Consensus Statement and Call to Action was drafted by members of the steering committee* for the conference “Tenth…
Moving toward a restraint-free environment
Moving toward a restraint-free environment A behavioral health nurse provides guidance on how to eliminate the need for physical restraints…
Nanotechnology and the environment
Nanotechnology and the environment By Katie Slavin, MS, RN Nanotechnology is the use of innovative techniques for controlling and manipulating…
National Priorities – a guide for nursing pratice
National Priorities give guidelines for the transformation in health care.
National Priorities Partnership explores nursing’s contributions to healthcare transformation
Seeking to address major healthcare challenges, the National Priorities Partnership recognizes the many contributions nurses are making to advance its goals and transform health care. This article details the steps needed to optimize nursing’s contributions in specific areas.
NEJM study finds low RN staffing increases mortality
According to a study in the New England Journal of Medicine, RN staffing that falls below targeted levels was associated…
New boxed warning for propylthiouracil
On April 21, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced the addition of a boxed warning to the label for…
New colorectal screening guidelines
Screening for colorectal cancer is still underused, especially by low-income people, the uninsured, Asians and Hispanics, foreign-born people, and those…
New falls prevention guidelines released
The American Geriatrics Society and British Geriatrics Society have released “Clinical Practice Guideline for Prevention of Falls in Older Persons.”…
New FDA regulation for improving safety reporting in clinical trials discussed in The New England Journal of Medicine.
The June 8 edition of The New England Journal of Medicine includes “New FDA Regulation to Improve Safety Reporting in…
New guidelines for treatment of malaria
The World Health Organization has released new guidelines for malaria treatment to counter the misuse of anti-malarial drugs. Access the…
New minimally invasive technique treats acute DVT
Pharmacomechanical thrombectomy removes dangerous clots to restore healthy function in hours.
New report addresses engagement with consumers
“Engaging Health Care Users: A Framework for Healthy Individuals and Communities,” a report from the American Hospital Association, recommends hospitals…
New report reaffirms old concerns
In a new report, The National Toxicology Program (NTP) expressed ”serious concern” that diethylhexyl-phthalate (DEHP), a chemical used in medical…
New report says more than 13% of Medicare patients experience adverse events during hospital stay
A new report from the Department of Health and Human Services says an estimated 13.5% of Medicare patients experience adverse…
New safety information for Invirase
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that new safety information has been added to the label for the HIV…
New survey on family caregivers released
The AARP Public Policy Institute and the United Hospital Fund have released the report “Home Alone: Family Caregivers Providing Complex…
New vial labeling standards released
The U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention has announced new standardized labeling requirements for injectable medication vials. Manufacturers can only put cautionary statements…
New warning added for gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has asked manufacturers to add new labeling warnings for gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, mostly…
No drugs down the drain
You can use the questions and answers below when teaching patients about proper medication disposal. Question: Why should I clean…
No peeking allowed
Electronic health records give healthcare providers faster, more efficient access to patient information. Experts hope to make the data less vulnerable to security breaches.
NQF endorses more patient safety measures
The National Quality Forum (NQF) Board of Directors has endorsed 12 patient safety measures, including those related to patient falls,…
Nurising’s contribution to patient care
Editor’s note: This month’s column is cowritten by Rebecca Patton and Margarete L. Zalon, President of the American Nurses Foundation.…