Take Note - Practice Updates Archives

Take Note – Practice Updates

‘Post-hospital syndrome’ in NEJM

January 11, 2013

“Post-Hospital Syndrome — An Acquired, Transient Condition of Generalized Risk,” in The New England Journal of Medicine, presents “post-hospital syndrome” as a construct related to readmission. The author…

“Metal-on-metal” hip implant concerns on the rise

March 11, 2010

The New York Times published an article on concerns related to “metal-on-metal” hip implants. Read the article at http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/04/health/04metalhip.html?partner=rss&emc=rss.

JAMA: Use of anesthesia services for GI endoscopies increased substantially

March 11, 2012

A study in JAMA found that use of anesthesia services for gastrointestinal endoscopies and colonoscopies “increased substantially” between 2003 and 2009. Anesthesia use was mostly in low-risk patients…

NEJM article addresses challenges of evaluating patient satisfaction

January 11, 2013

An article in The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) discusses the challenges of measuring patient experiences and provides guidelines for increasing effectiveness, including focusing on a specific…

NEJM publishes Olympic Medicine article

July 11, 2012

Before you watch the Olympics, read the New England Journal of Medicine article “Olympic Medicine.”

NEJM study assess BMD retesting

January 11, 2012

A study in the Jan. 19 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) found that in older, postmenopausal women with normal bone mineral density testing or…

U.S. News names registered nurse one of best jobs for 2013

December 11, 2012

U.S. News 100 Best Jobs of 2013 puts registered nurse in the number two spot, right after dentist. The report lists the median salary as $65,690 and states,…

150 minutes of brisk exercise can reduce risk of diabetes

October 21, 2016

Walking briskly or cycling for the recommended 150 minutes a week can reduce a person’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes by up to 26%, according to a…

200 years of surgery reviewed

April 11, 2012

Author Atul Gawande, MD, MPH, has written a fascinating article on the history of surgery for The New England Journal of Medicine. Read more. You can also access…

2012 recommended immunization schedules released

January 11, 2012

Access the 2012 recommended immunization schedules on the website for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention here.

2019 AMN Healthcare Survey of Registered Nurses

November 12, 2019

The AMN 2019 Survey of Registered Nurses reveals growing pressures on the millions of nurses who provide hands-on care and other services to Americans every day. (more…)

2020 is officially the Year of the Nurse and Midwife

December 31, 2019

As many of our readers may know, the World Health Organization (WHO) named 2020 the official Year of the Nurse and the Midwife! (more…)

4-drug combination regimen effective for TB

April 11, 2011

Compared to separate drug administration, a 4-drug combination regimen had comparable effectiveness in patients with tuberculosis according to a study in JAMA. Read more at http://jama.ama-assn.org/content/305/14/1415.abstract.

A 200-year perspective on hospital costs and mortality

May 11, 2012

The New England Journal of Medicine has published an interesting article that traces mortality and hospital costs over 200 years at Massachusetts General Hospital, which celebrated its 200th…

A new technology may better help control type 1 diabetes

November 9, 2019

A recent study from The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) reveals a new system that has “improved glycemic outcomes in patients with type 1 diabetes.” The technology…

A potential connection between lung cancer and pre- and probiotics

November 13, 2019

A new study from JAMA Oncology examines a potential connection between dietary intake of fiber and probiotics through yogurt and the risk of lung cancer. (more…)

ABCDEF bundle improves ICU care

January 16, 2019

Full use of the ABCDEF bundle in the ICU improves several outcomes, including survival, mechanical ventilation use, delirium, and ICU readmissions, according to a study in Critical Care…

ACA improves care

July 30, 2015

The first two enrollment periods under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) were associated with significantly improved trends in self-reported coverage, access to primary care and medications, affordability, and…

According to a study in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes,

September 11, 2013

Patients with positive attitudes are more likely to exercise and live longer. Read more and read the study abstract.

Acupressure improves QOL in nurses with chronic back pain

January 5, 2020

A study published in Applied Nursing Science details how acupressure may help nurses who experience chronic back pain. (more…)

ADA releases position statement on diabetic neuropathy

January 13, 2017

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) has released a position statement on diabetic neuropathy that outlines recommendations for preventing and managing the condition. Read more

Adding NP to inpatient surgical team can reduce emergency department visits

November 11, 2011

A study published in Surgery found that adding a nurse practitioner (NP) to an inpatient surgical team reduced unnecessary emergency department visits by 50%. Read more.

Addressing glycemic control in patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes

March 8, 2017

Providing feedback on performance, problem solving, and action planning are helpful behavioral change techniques for individuals with poor glycemic control, according to a meta-analysis in Worldviews on Evidence-Based…

ADHD drugs may reduce risky sexual behavior in teens

August 4, 2016

A study in Labour Economics reports that drugs used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children may reduce the likelihood of risky sexual behavior outcomes, substance abuse disorders,…

Adjusting sports drills to prevent concussions

January 3, 2019

A study in the Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics reports that interventions such as reducing the speed of players engaged in contact, correcting tackling technique, and progressing to contact…

Advice for Pregnant, Nursing Women Considering a COVID Vaccine

January 20, 2021

Pregnant and nursing women should answer five key questions with their healthcare professional when deciding whether to get a Covid-19 vaccine, according to a revised patient handout from…

Aerobic exercise eases nicotine withdrawal symptoms, but effects are short-term

May 11, 2011

A study has found that although moderate aerobic exercise eases nicotine withdrawal symptoms, but the effects aren’t sustained from one exercise session to the next. Read more.

AHA releases new CPR guidelines

October 16, 2015

The American Heart Association has published new guidelines for CPR and emergency cardiovascular care. Read a quick summary, download a PDF with the highlights, and access the full…

AHA releases new guidelines for reversing non–vitamin K oral anticoagulants

February 17, 2017

The American Heart Association (AHA) has released a scientific statement on reversing the effects of non–vitamin K oral anticoagulants. Read more

AHRQ releases new guide for patients

October 11, 2010

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) has released a new guide to help hospitals better prepare patients to take care of themselves at home after they…

AHRQ releases Spanish medication tracking tool

August 11, 2011

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality has released a newly revised Spanish language medication tracking tool, “Su medicamento: Infórmese. Evite riesgos.” (“Your Medicine: Be Smart. Be Safe.”).…

AHRQ reports results from survey on patient safety culture

February 11, 2012

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) has published “Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture: 2012 User Comparative Database Report.” The report includes areas of strengths (teamwork…

Alarming childhood obesity trend

November 30, 2017

If current trends in child obesity continue, more than 57% of today’s children in the U.S. will have obesity at age 35, according to a study in the…

Alcohol-related mortality rates on the rise

January 25, 2020

A new study published in Alcoholism Clinical & Experimental Research reveals that the amount of alcohol-related deaths in the United States has increased between 1999 and 2017. (more…)

American Heart Association: E-cigarettes are not safe alternative

November 20, 2019

The American Heart Association (AHA) recently held its 2019 Scientific Sessions in Philadelphia PA. The sessions covered many topics, but one of the most impactful was a session…

AMERICAN NURSE TODAY WINS FIVE ASHPE AWARDS

June 11, 2013

Click here to read the press release.

AMERICAN NURSE TODAY WINS TWO ASHPE AWARDS

April 11, 2010

American Nurse Today, the official journal of the American Nurses Association (ANA), today announced that its June 2009 cover, Autism Today, has been named “Best Cover” by the…

ANA announces ‘Year of Ethics’

January 8, 2015

The American Nurses Association (ANA) has designated 2015 as the “Year of Ethics.” The year is highlighted by release of a revised Code of Ethics. Read more.

ANA releases new position statement on workplace bullying

September 3, 2015

On Aug. 31, the American Nurses Association released a new position statement “Incivility, Bullying, and Workplace Violence”. Read more and access the statement.

Analysis: Good communication enhances patient safety, satisfaction

May 11, 2012

A new report from HealthGrades finds that hospitals with the highest patient ratings in physician and nursing communications on average have fewer patient safety events. The report notes…

Anastrozole and fulvestrant combination effective in metastatic breast cancer

July 11, 2012

The combination of anastrozole and fulvestrant was more effective than anastrozole alone or sequential anastrozole and fulvestrant for the treatment of hormone receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer in postmenopausal…

ANCC Announces Craig Luzinski, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE, as Director of the Magnet Recognition Program®

January 11, 2014

The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) is thrilled to name Craig J. Luzinski, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE as the new director of its internationally recognized Magnet Recognition Program®.…

Antibacterial soap may be no more effective than plain soap

September 17, 2015

Antibacterial soap containing triclosan (0.3%) is no more effective than plain soap at reducing bacterial contamination, according to a study in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy. Read more.

Anxiety more likely in older adults with COPD

February 5, 2016

Generalized anxiety disorder for adults aged 50 and older is three times more likely in those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to a study in COPD: Journal…

Are Accountable Care Organizations doomed to fail?

February 11, 2013

The value of Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) is a hot topic in health care today. The authors of a Wall Street Journal editorial argue that ACOs are likely…

Arrested Utah nurse reaches settlement, plans donations

November 6, 2017

Alex Wubbels plans to donate some of the $500,000 she receives from Salt Lake City and the University of Utah (both entities agreed to split the cost of…

Article provides guidance for nurses working with patients with vision loss

June 11, 2012

“Focusing your care: Working with clients with vision loss” in the Canadian Nurse provide informative guidance for nurses. Read the article.

Associate degree nurses shifting to long-term care

March 5, 2015

According to a study in Nursing Economics, many nurses with associate degrees who would have otherwise been employed in hospitals seem to have shifted to long-term care settings.…

At least 10% of MI patient may have undiagnosed diabetes

June 11, 2014

At least 10 percent of people who have a myocardial infarction (MI) may have undiagnosed diabetes, according to research presented at the American Heart Association’s Quality of Care…

Bariatric surgeries compared

November 13, 2014

According to a study in JAMA Surgery, laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass results in much greater weight loss and fewer reoperations compared to laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, but is…

Bariatric surgery does not reduce mortality in men

June 11, 2011

A study in JAMA reports that bariatric surgery did not decrease mortality in patients with a mean age of 49.5 years who were followed for a mean of…

Bariatric surgery safe option for pediatric population

March 5, 2015

Bariatric surgery doesn’t stunt the growth of obese children and adolescents when applied within a clinical pathway and is a safe option for those unable to loss weight…

Bariatric surgical center accreditation improves survival

September 4, 2014

A decade of analysis shows that bariatric surgical center accreditation is linked to lower mortality and fewer postoperative complications, according to a study in the Journal of the…

Behavioral emergency response team improves safety

November 16, 2017

A behavioral emergency response team helps de-escalate behavioral emergencies, thereby reducing assaults and use of restraints, according to a study in Worldviews on Evidence-based Nursing. (more…)

Benefits of exercise training in heart failure

March 11, 2014

Exercise training reduces the risk for subsequent all-cause mortality or all-cause hospitalization in women by 26%, compared with 10% in men, according to a study in JACC: Heart…

Best hospitals share secrets for success

February 11, 2014

Healthgrades has released “America’s 100 Best Hospitals 2014” list. Based on interviews with representatives from the various hospitals, there are three themes that are vital for success: ensure…

Biological clocks in digestive organs may be reason for metabolism disruption with shift work

July 11, 2018

Biological clocks (peripheral oscillators) in the liver, gut, and pancreas may be the reason for disruption of metabolism in people who work night shifts, according to a study…

Birthplace may affect CHD incidence

March 29, 2018

Foreign-born adults living in the United States have a lower prevalence coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke than those who were born in the U.S., according to a…

Blood pressure management guideline released

December 11, 2013

JAMA has published “2014 Evidence-Based Guideline for the Management of High Blood Pressure in Adults: Report From the Panel Members Appointed to the Eighth Joint National Committee (JNC…

Blood test can detect concussion one week after injury

April 7, 2016

Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), a biomarker that can indicate concussion, can be detected in the blood up to a week after head injury, according to a study…

Blood type may affect cognition in later years

September 11, 2014

People with blood type AB may be more likely to develop cognitive impairment in later years than people with other blood types, according to a study published in…

Blueberry concentrate improves brain function in healthy older adults

March 8, 2017

Healthy people aged 65-77 who drink concentrated blueberry juice concentrate every day show improvements in brain perfusion and activation in brain areas associated with cognitive function, according to…

Body image and alcohol use in teen girls

December 15, 2016

Adolescent girls with body image misperceptions are more likely to have had at least one drink in their life, and more likely to have engaged in episodes of…

Boston Globe story highlights nurses who cared for suspected terrorist

May 11, 2013

“For bombing suspect’s nurses, angst gave way to duty,” published in the Boston Globe, highlights nurses’ emotional response to caring for the Boston bombing suspected terrorist. Read more.

BSN, MSN graduates more likely to land jobs

December 11, 2013

According to new data from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, graduates of entry-level baccalaureate (BSN) and master’s nursing programs are much more likely to have job…

Bullying toolkit available

July 28, 2014

Access “Civility Tool-kit: Resources to Empower Nurse Leaders to Identify, Intervene, and Prevent Workplace Bullying,” supported by the RWJF Executive Nurse Fellows Program, funded by the Robert Wood…

Business success requires four types of leaders

October 11, 2013

“Leadership Is More Than the C-Suite,” published Sept. 26 by Gallup Business Journal, says Gallup research has found that successful businesses need four kinds of leaders: executive, senior,…

C-suite executives believe ACA will improve health care

December 11, 2013

A survey of 74 C-suite executives published in Health Affairs finds they are optimistic about the effects of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The survey found that 65%…

C. difficile infections at record high

February 11, 2012

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that C. difficile infections are at an all-time high and are linked to 14,000 deaths in the U.S. each…

Call for abstracts for home care conference

March 11, 2014

The second annual International Home Care Nurses Organization Conference, Sept. 23-26 in Singapore, has released a call for abstracts. Deadline is April 1. Read more.

Call for abstracts for new home care conference

August 11, 2012

International Home Care Nurses Organization’s inaugural conference, “The Future of Health Care Is at Home,” will be June 25-28, 2013 in Cleveland. Learn more and submit abstracts.

Can Doctors Predict and Prevent Stroke and Heart Attack?

January 19, 2021

Predicting – and defeating – a silent killer A recent study from Edith Cowan University led a team of international researchers to discover that people who have abdominal…

Cancer survival remains higher in married compared to unmarried

October 11, 2011

A study, published by BMC Public Health, that examined data from 1970-2007 has found that the excess mortality of never-married compared to married people has “steadily increased.” Read…

Cataract surgery may reduce dizziness in older patients

November 25, 2015

The improved vision that occurs with cataract surgery may reduce dizziness in older patients, according to a study in Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics. Read more and access the article.…

Catching up with the HPV vaccine

August 9, 2018

It may not be too late for HPV vaccination for girls who missed the recommended window. Catch-up quadrivalent HPV vaccination with three doses is effective against cervical intraepithelial…

CBT for insomnia improves depression in older adults

February 28, 2019

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for insomnia helps reduce depression in older adults, according to a study in Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing. (more…)

CDC analysis of foodborne norovirus outbreaks

June 11, 2014

On June 3, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released “Vital Signs: Foodborne Norovirus Outbreaks — United States, 2009–2012.” Access the report.

CDC develops new faster test for enterovirus D68

October 21, 2014

On Oct. 14, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that it has started using a new, faster lab test for detecting enterovirus D68 (EV-D68). This…

CDC gives telebriefing on H3N2v

August 11, 2012

Access the transcript of an Aug. 10 telebriefing from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which provided an update on H3N2v infection. Read more.

CDC provides enterovirus D68 information

October 9, 2014

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has dedicated a section of its website to the nationwide outbreak of enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) associated with severe respiratory illness.…

CDC provides resources related to MERS-CoV

July 11, 2013

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released infection prevention and control recommendations related to Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). As of July 12, no…

CDC releases updated guideline for prevention of surgical site infection

May 4, 2017

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has updated its 1999 guideline for the prevention of surgical site infection. Read more

CDC releases updated guidelines for Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus

June 11, 2013

On June 7, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released updated guidelines for evaluating severe respiratory illness associated with Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Read…

CDC Reports a Rise in cases of STDs

October 14, 2019

In early October 2019, the CDC released a report showcasing a rise in the rates of syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia in the United States. The report states that…

CDC survey finds sexual violence and stalking is ‘widespread public health problem’ in the U.S.

December 11, 2011

According to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) nearly 1 in 5 women (18.3% and 1 in 71 men (1.4%) have been…

Celiac disease linked to increased risk for CAD

April 11, 2014

People with celiac disease may have a nearly twofold increased risk of coronary artery disease compared with the general population, according to research to be presented at the…

Center for nursing history gets new name

September 11, 2012

The University of Virginia School of Nursing has renamed its nursing history center to ” Eleanor Crowder Bjoring Center for Nursing Historical Inquiry. ” Bjoring, a nurse and…

Certain subtypes of delirium may signal end of life for terminally ill patients with cancer

September 24, 2015

Hypoactive and mixed delirium in patients with cancer who are nearing the end of life indicate “imminent death,” according to a study in in Psychosomatic Medicine: Journal of…

Childhood obesity continues to rise

October 12, 2017

The number of obese children and adolescents (aged 5 to 19 years) worldwide has risen tenfold in the past four decades, according to a study in The Lancet.…

Children of obese mothers are at greater risk for early cardiovascular death

August 11, 2013

Children of obese and overweight women have a higher risk of early cardiovascular death as adults, according to a study in BMJ. Access “Maternal obesity during pregnancy and…

Children with acute otitis media should receive antibiotics not observation

January 11, 2011

Recent studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine support treating children with acute otitis media with amoxicillin–clavulanate at the time of diagnosis instead of observing them.…

Children’s hospitals may be getting penalized for factors outside of their control

February 18, 2016

According to a study in JAMA Pediatrics, readmission financial penalties for children’s hospitals may be partly related to patient social determinants of health that are outside the hospital’s…

Cholecystectomy during third term of pregnancy should be avoided

February 13, 2019

For women in the third trimester of pregnancy, cholecystectomy should be delayed (whenever possible) until the postpartum period to avoid adverse maternal outcomes, according to a study in…

Clinical tool for detecting post–intensive care syndrome

February 8, 2019

The self-report version of the Healthy Aging Brain Care Monitor is a valid clinical tool for assessing symptoms of post–intensive care syndrome, according to a study in the…

Clinical tool helps identify who needs stress tests

February 17, 2017

A clinical tool can be used to reduce unnecessary stress tests in patients with stable chest pain. Read more and read the study abstract.

Clinical trial participants’ views on data sharing

June 8, 2018

Most participants in clinical trials believe the benefits of broadly sharing person-level data outweigh the risks, according to a study in The New England Journal of Medicine. (more…)

CMS awards funding for APRN training

July 11, 2012

On July 30, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced the participants for a new initiative that provides funds to support clinical training of advanced practice…

CMS broadens ‘medical staff’ concept to include APRNs

May 11, 2012

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has broadened the concept of “medical staff” so that hospitals can include other practitioners such as APRNs and PAs “as…

CMS plans to end meaningful use program

January 14, 2016

The Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) plans to replace its unpopular meaningful use program in 2016. Read more and read the speech by acting administrator Andy Slavitt.

CNS-led initiative improves tube feeding administration

October 12, 2018

A clinical nurse specialist-led initiative that included an evidence-based algorithm reduced tube feeding interruptions and volume deficits among patients in a surgical-trauma ICU. (more…)

Cocaine use may be associated with glaucoma

September 11, 2011

A pilot study found that cocaine use was associated with open-angle glaucoma. Read more.

Coffee drinking and arrhythmias

March 11, 2010

Coffee drinkers are less likely to be hospitalized for cardiac arrhythmias, according to a report presented at the American Heart Association’s 50th Annual Conference on Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology…

Cognitive behaviorial therapy

March 11, 2010

A study of 701 adults with subacute or chronic back pain found that cognitive behavioral therapy reduced pain and disability compared to those who didn’t receive the intervention.…

Colorado only state with obesity less than 20%

June 11, 2010

According to the report F as in Fat: How Obesity Threatens America’s Future 2010, Colorado stands alone as the state with obesity rates 15% to less than 20%;…

Combining alcohol with cannabis increases THC levels

May 28, 2015

The simultaneous use of alcohol and cannabis produces significantly higher blood concentrations of cannabis’s main psychoactive constituent, THC, and THC’s active metabolite, than cannabis alone, according to a…

Combining exercise and meditation eases depression

February 17, 2016

he combination of mediation and aerobic exercise (done twice a week for 2 months) significantly reduced the symptoms of depression in a group of students, according to a…

Computer algorithm can predict septic shock

August 6, 2015

Targeted real-time early warning score (TREWScore), a computer-based algorithm, correctly predicts septic shock in 85% of cases, with a lead-time of more than 24 hours according to a…

Consumer-directed health plans have little effect on reducing unnecessary medical services

December 8, 2017

Consumer-directed health plans have little or no effect on spending on low-value services, according to a study in the American Journal of Managed Care. (more…)

Costs of gun violence identified

March 23, 2017

From 2006 to 2014, the cost of initial hospitalizations for firearm-related injuries averaged $734.6 million per year, according to a study in the American Journal of Public Health.…

CRNAs provide cost-effective anesthesia delivery

June 11, 2010

According to a study by The Lewin Group, a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) acting independently to deliver anesthesia is more cost effective than models using medical direction.…

Dangers of the 12-hour shift

February 11, 2013

Rose Sherman has a thoughtful blog on nursing’s “third rail”—the 12-hour shift. In the blog, she notes that although nurses like 12-hour shifts, they create a patient safety…

Depression increases risk of cognitive decline

May 24, 2018

A study in Psychological Medicine reports that depression leads to greater cognitive decline in older adults. (more…)

Despite efforts C. difficile remains significant problem in hospitals

March 11, 2013

According to “2013 Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) Pace of Progress Survey: Results of an online poll of infection preventionists,” 70% of respondents have adopted additional interventions to address…

Detecting more abdominal aortic aneurysms

August 20, 2015

Updating national screening policies could help detect more abdominal aortic aneurysms in older men and prevent deaths, according to a study in the Journal of the American Heart…

Dietary fiber may protect against obesity and metabolic syndrome

January 25, 2018

Consumption of dietary fiber may prevent obesity and metabolic syndrome, according to a study in Cell Host & Microbe. (more…)

Digital device overload may increase risk of obesity

April 12, 2019

Another reason to watch how much time you spend on your electronic devices: Mindless switching between digital devices is associated with increased susceptibility to food temptations and lack…

Do alternative therapies help with menopause?

November 5, 2019

A recent study examined the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to help women as they transition into menopause. These CAM therapies included nutrition-based options, physical treatments,…

Do you know the schedule for vaccinating children?

November 11, 2010

Learn how to promote pediatric immunizations in your practice. Part of ANA’s Bringing Immunity to Every Community campaign. this handout stresses the importance of vaccinating children and their…

Does simulation training improve safety outcomes?

October 16, 2019

A new study showcases the potential connection between simulation training for acute care nurses and its role in improving patient safety outcomes. (more…)

Dosing strategy may reduce toxicity of TB treatment

December 31, 2014

Giving patients with tuberculosis (TB) lower doses of the bedaquiline together with verapamil might lead to the same antibacterial effects as higher toxic doses of bedaquiline, according to…

Drinking water before eating facilitates weight loss

August 27, 2015

Drinking 500 ml of water 30 min before main meals facilitates moderate weight loss, according to a study in Obesity. Read more.

Drones may reduce response time for cardiac arrest

June 15, 2017

In simulated out-of-hospital arrests, drones carrying an automated external defibrillator arrived sooner than EMS, reducing response time by about 16 minutes, reports a study in JAMA. In a…

Drug therapy effective in hepatitis C

December 2, 2015

A once daily drug combination of sofosbuvir-velpatasvir for 12 weeks resulted in sustained eradication of several genotypes of the hepatitis C virus in 99% of patients in a…

Drugs for diabetic neuropathy similarly effective despite cost differences

November 6, 2014

Drugs for managing diabetic neuropathy are similarly effective, yet the costs of these drugs vary greatly, according to a study in the Annals of Internal Medicine. The researchers…

E-cigarettes may be harmful for teens

November 17, 2016

Adolescent e-cigarette users have increased rates of chronic bronchitis symptoms, according to a study in American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine. Read more and read the study…

Early imaging reduces length of stay

March 11, 2010

According to the study “Patients Imaged Early During Admission Demonstrate Reduced Length of Hospital Stay: A Retrospective Cohort Study of Patients Undergoing Cross-Sectional Imaging,” the mean length of…

Early rehab for ACL tears may lessen need for surgery

July 11, 2010

In young adults, early rehabilitation and optional delayed reconstruction for acute anterior cruciate ligament tears (ACL) reduced the need for surgery compared to rehab and early ACL reconstruction…

Early-onset menopause may predict CVD

October 11, 2016

Women who experience hot flashes and night sweats earlier in life are more likely to die from cardiovascular disease (CVD) compared to women with later onset menopausal symptoms,…

Early, intensive therapy for type 2 diabetes can slow progression

June 11, 2012

A study of 58 patients with type 2 diabetes found that early and intensive therapy helped preserve beta cell function for 3.5 years. In the study, published in…

Eating fish may prolong life

July 19, 2018

Consumption of fish (but not fried fish) and long-chain omega-3 fatty acids is associated with lower risks of early death, according to a study in the Journal of…

Ebola resources

October 30, 2014

Access ebola-related resources from Nebraska Medicine and the American Nurses Association.

Ebola resources from ANA

October 21, 2014

Access ebola information from the American Nurses Association (ANA) http://www.nursingworld.org/MainMenuCategories/WorkplaceSafety/Healthy-Work-Environment/DPR/Ebola-Information.html.

Ebola update

December 4, 2014

On Dec. 3, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated information on the Ebola outbreak. Read more and access the list of hospital designated as Ebola treatment centers.

ECRI names top 10 health technology hazards for 2012

November 11, 2011

ECRI Institute’s top 10 health technology hazards for 2012 include alarm hazards, medication errors when using infusion pumps, enteral feeding misconnections, and cross-contamination from flexible endoscopes. Access the…

ECRI releases top 10 health technology hazards for 2011

December 11, 2010

ECRI Institute has released its Top 10 Lists of Health Technology Hazards for 2011: radiation therapy dose errors, alarm hazards, cross-contamination from flexible endoscopes, high radiation dose of…

Effect of errors or adverse effects on NICU healthcare providers

December 28, 2017

A study in the Journal of Advanced Nursing reports that neonatal ICU healthcare providers who were involved in an error or adverse event incident have higher levels of…

Effects of low to moderate alcohol intake during pregnancy examined

June 11, 2012

Preschool children of mothers who consumed low to moderate quantities of alcohol during pregnancy had no difference in test performance compared to mothers who abstained according to a…

Effects of patient migration in bed

May 28, 2015

Patient migration to the foot of the bed flattens the torso, according to a study in Nursing Research, indicating that clinicians need to manage both the head of…

Effects of second-hand smoke on children

August 16, 2018

Childhood secondhand smoke exposure and adult secondhand smoke exposure increase the risk of death from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in adulthood, according to a study in the American…

Efficiency: ASCs vs. hospital outpatient departments

November 28, 2019

A recent study from The American Journal of Surgery analyzes the efficiency of operating rooms in hospital-owned ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) and hospital outpatient departments (HOPs). (more…)

EHR hospitals associated with lower adverse events

February 17, 2016

Cardiovascular, pneumonia, and surgery patients in a hospital with a full electronic health record (EHR) are less likely to experience in-hospital adverse events, according to a study in…

Elevated upper body position after childbirth improve respiratory safety

April 29, 2015

An elevated upper body position might improve respiratory safety in women early after childbirth without impairing sleep quality, according to a study in CHEST. Read more and read…

Emerging markets make gains in medical technology innovation

January 11, 2011

Emerging markets such as China, India, and Brazil are “gaining ground” in medical technology innovation and may surpass developed countries in innovative healthcare delivery over the next decade…

ENA study encourages more suicide screening in the ED

March 1, 2018

Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States, and many people who die by suicide visit a healthcare provider in the year before taking…

Errors in inhaler technique common among hospitalized children with asthma

May 3, 2019

According to a study in the Journal of Hospital Medicine, nearly half of hospitalized children with asthma miss a critical step in inhaler technique. More patients missed a…

Ethical Issues in Healthcare

December 2, 2019

High ethical standards are essential in healthcare. Four fundamental principles lay the foundation for healthcare ethics. Autonomy honors patients’ right to make their own decisions. Beneficence helps patients advance their…

Exercise beneficial for patients with MCI

January 11, 2018

Physical exercise, particularly aerobic exercise, improves global cognition in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), according to a systematic review in the International Journal of Nursing Studies. (more…)

Exercise for patients with type 2 diabetes most effective after dinner

February 19, 2015

Performing resistance exercise to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in obese patients with type 2 diabetes is most effective when done after dinner, according to a study…

Exercise guidelines for patients with type 1 diabetes

January 26, 2017

Access “Exercise management in type 1 diabetes: a consensus statement” in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology. Read more

Exercise is key part of stroke recovery

May 11, 2014

Exercise should be prescribed for stroke survivors because it can significantly reduce disability and the risk of recurrent stroke, according to “Physical Activity and Exercise Recommendations for Stroke…

False-positive mammograms may indicate increased risk for breast cancer later in life

December 3, 2015

Women with a history of a false-positive mammogram result may be at increased risk of developing breast cancer for up to 10 years after the false-positive result, according…

FDA announces July 22-23 meeting to discuss extended-release and long-acting opioid analgesics

June 11, 2010

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced a joint meeting of the Anesthetic and Life Support Drugs Advisory Committee and the Drug Safety and Risk Management Advisory Committee…

FDA approves new type of drug for insomnia

August 14, 2014

On August 13, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Belsomra (suvorexant) tablets for treating insomnia. Belsomra is the first approved orexin receptor antagonist. Read more

FDA issues warning letter for medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder

January 8, 2020

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently issued a warning letter to Alkermes, Inc. due to misbranding on the drug Vivitrol, which is used to prevent opioid…

FDA mandates removal of trans fats in processed foods

June 18, 2015

On June 16, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that food manufacturers will have 3 years to remove partially hydrogenated oils, the primary source of trans…

FDA, EPA releases fish consumption advice for specific groups

January 19, 2017

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have released guidance for fish consumption; the guidelines are targeted to women who are pregnant, may…

Few studies consider sex and gender when analyzing and reporting research results

December 8, 2016

The authors of a Viewpoint article in JAMA say that only a minority of medical studies take sex and gender into account when analyzing and reporting research results;…

Final National Sample Survey results released

September 11, 2010

Access the findings from the 2008 National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses here. The report notes there were an estimated 3,063,162 licensed registered nurses living in the United…

Football helmet add-ons may not significantly reduce concussion risk

February 27, 2015

Football helmet add-ons such as outer soft-shell layers, spray treatments, helmet pads and fiber sheets may not significantly help lower the risk of concussions in athletes, according to…

Football Players and Concussions – Do They Realize the Risk?

January 8, 2021

Athletes underestimate risk of injury, concussions A recent survey-style study of 296 male college-aged football players revealed that some 43 percent of these athletes underestimate their risk of…

Form of cinnamon used in U.S. contains higher concentrations of coumarin

May 11, 2013

A study in Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry has found that cassia cinnamon, commonly used in products sold the U.S., contains higher concentrations of coumarin than in…

Four new guidelines from AHA, ACC

November 11, 2013

The American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology have released four guidelines related to preventing cardiovascular disease: cholesterol, obesity, lifestyle, assessment of cardiovascular risk. Read more.

FTC supports APRN practice in new report

March 11, 2014

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has released “Policy Perspectives: Competition and the Regulation of Advanced Practice Nurses (APRNs),” which cautions against legislators and policymakers taking actions that limit…

Future of Nursing Campaign launches new website

October 11, 2012

As it begins its third year, the Future of Nursing: Campaign for Action is launching a new website . A joint initiative of AARP and the Robert Wood…

Genetic testing recommended for colorectal cancer patients

August 7, 2014

A new guideline from the U.S. Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer recommends genetic testing of tumors for all newly diagnosed colorectal cancer patients. Read more and read…

Genetic/Genomic Competency Center

April 11, 2010

The Genetic/Genomic Competency Center (G2C2, http://www.g-2-c-2.org/) is a new free online resource created to help educators teach the next generation of nurses and physician assistants about genetics and…

Giving a neuromuscular blocking agent early in ARDS may improve survival

September 11, 2010

According to a study in the New England Journal of Medicine, administering a neuromuscular blocking agent for 48 hours at the onset of severe Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome…

Global resurgence of measles

May 3, 2019

It’s not just the United States that’s experiencing a resurgence of measles. Experts writing in the New England Journal of Medicine note that the decline in measles vaccination…

Guide for using MAT for opioid use disorder

October 14, 2019

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Academy has developed a new resource for healthcare practitioners to aid in treating opioid use disorder (OUD). (more…)

Guidelines for abdominal aortic aneurysm screening released

June 11, 2014

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has released recommendations on screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm. One of the recommendations is one-time screening by ultrasonography in men ages 65…

Guidelines for nutrition in critically ill patients

February 2, 2016

The February issue of the Journal of Parenteral & Enteral Nutrition includes “Guidelines for the Provision and Assessment of Nutrition Support Therapy in the Adult Critically Ill Patient.”…

Guidelines for patients with thyroid conditions

November 5, 2015

The American Thyroid Association has released guidelines for managing adult patients with thyroid nodules and differentiated thyroid cancer. Access the guidelines.

Hands: Keep them clean

December 3, 2019

It’s National Handwashing Awareness Week, so what better time to remind everyone about the importance of hand hygiene to help prevent the spread of infection? The American Nurses…

Harvard issues new Healthy Eating Plate

September 11, 2011

Nutrition experts at the Harvard School of Public Health have issued the Health Eating Plate, a visual guide for eating healthy. Read more and access the plate.

Healthcare professionals and medicinal cannabis

May 14, 2019

According to a systematic review in PLOSOne, healthcare professionals generally support the use of medicinal cannabis, but they lack knowledge and are concerned about patient harm and indirect…

Healthcare professionals’ implementation of EBP lagging

May 17, 2019

Although healthcare professionals’ self‐reported evidence-based practice (EBP) knowledge, skills, attitudes, and beliefs are at a moderate to high level, this doesn’t translate into EBP implementation, according to a…

Healthcare workforce needs

February 2, 2017

A special issue of Health Services Research discusses ways to prepare workers to improve the delivery, quality, and cost of U.S. health care. Read more

Healthy eating improves children’s self-esteem

December 15, 2017

A healthy diet improves the self-esteem of children, according to a study in BMC Public Health. (more…)

Healthy eating may reduce risk for hearing loss

December 12, 2019

A new study from the American Journal of Epidemiology reveals that healthy diets are “associated with a lower risk of hearing loss.” (more…)

Hearing impairment may accelerate cognitive decline with age

February 13, 2019

Hearing impairment is associated with accelerated cognitive decline with age, though the impact of mild hearing loss may be lessened by higher education, according to a study in…

Hearing loss associated with depression

January 3, 2019

Hearing loss is associated with clinically significant symptoms of depression in Hispanic adults 50 years or older, according to a study in JAMA Otolaryngology — Head & Neck…

HHS panel recommends mandatory flu vaccination for health care workers

January 11, 2012

On Feb. 9, AHANews.com reported the National Vaccine Advisory Committee has recommended that hospitals and other health care facilities not able to achieve a 90% annual flu vaccination…

HHS releases modifications to HIPAA privacy, security, enforcement, and breach notification rule

January 11, 2013

On Jan. 17, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released “Modifications to the HIPAA Privacy, Security, Enforcement, and Breach Notification Rules under the Health Information Technology…

High cholesterol in Hispanics under-recognized and undertreated

June 25, 2015

Nearly half of Hispanics don’t know they have high cholesterol and of those who are aware, less than a third are being treated, according to a study in…

High consumption of trans fat diminishes memory

November 20, 2014

A study presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2014 found that high trans fat consumption is linked to worse memory among working-age men. Read more.

High erythropoietin levels in people 85 or older associated with higher mortality risk

October 11, 2010

A study in the Canadian Medical Association Journal reports that among people aged 85 or older, elevated erythropoietin levels were associated with an increased risk of death. Read…

High omega 3 intake after diagnosis may lower risk of bowel cancer death

July 21, 2016

A high dietary intake of omega 3 fatty acids, derived from oily fish, may help to lower the risk of death from bowel cancer in patients, according to…

High-volume texting teens more likely to engage in risky behavior

November 11, 2010

Teens who text and send more than 120 messages per school day are 40% more likely to engage in risky behavior according to a Case Western Reserve University…

Higher intake of dietary trans fats worsens memory

June 18, 2015

Higher consumption of dietary trans fatty acids, commonly used in processed foods, has been linked to worsened memory function in men 45 years old and younger, according to…

Higher percentage of BSN nurses associated with lower rates of postsurgery mortality

April 11, 2013

The March issue of Health Affairs includes “An increase in the number of nurses with baccalaureate degrees is linked to lower rates of postsurgery mortality.” Read more.

Higher readmission rates in for-profit hospitals

September 27, 2018

A study in PLOS One reports that readmission rates for six major conditions, including acute MI and total hip/total knee arthroplasty, is higher in for-profit hospitals than in…

HIV patients at greater risk for heart, kidney disease

November 13, 2017

Patients with HIV who are at high risk for a heart attack or stroke are also at substantially greater risk for chronic kidney disease and vice versa, according…

Hospital volume associated with better survival in patients with head and neck cancer

March 11, 2013

“Hospital volume is associated with survival but not multimodality therapy in Medicare patients with advanced head and neck cancer,” published in Cancer, found that Medicare patients with advanced…

How the opioid epidemic affects women

October 26, 2019

Opioid use disorder (OUD) has become such a prominent topic in today’s society that it’s hard to go one day without hearing news about new death statistics or…

Hypertension in women commonly misidentified as part of menopause

January 29, 2021

Up to 50 percent of women develop high blood pressure before age 60 While complications of pregnancy and early menopause increase the future risk of heart disease in…

Hypertension increases risk of mitral regurgitation

October 18, 2017

Long-term hypertension increases the risk of mitral regurgitation in patients without cardiovascular disease, according to a study in PLOS Medicine. (more…)

Improved patient handoffs reduces medical errors

November 6, 2014

Improved patient handoffs using the I-PASS bundle reduces medical errors by 30%, according to a study in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM). Read more and read…

In some situations, axillary node removal doesn’t improve breast cancer survival

June 11, 2010

A study presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology June meeting found that removing additional axillary lymph nodes to look for breast cancer in women with limited…

Incident of ear infections in first year of life has decreased

April 7, 2016

A study in Pediatrics reports that the rates of ear infections during an infant’s first year have declined; the investigators suggest that higher rates of breastfeeding, use of…

Increased cadmium may increase risk of endometrial cancer

August 14, 2017

Cadmium exposure and endometrial cancer risk: A large midwestern U.S. population-based case-control study. Estrogen-mimicking chemicals, such as cadmium, may be associated with increased susceptibility to hormone-dependent cancers, though…

Increased obesity in children with autism, developmental delays

October 23, 2018

Children with developmental delays, including autism spectrum disorder, are up to 50% more likely to be overweight or obese compared with the general population, according the a study…

Increased risk of congenital anomalies in offspring of nurses working in certain areas

September 11, 2011

A study of 22,611 nurses found an increased risk of congenital anomalies in the “singleton offspring” of nurses employed in operating rooms, pediatric nursing units, maternal newborn units,…

Independent NP practice in retail clinics saves money

November 11, 2013

According to a study in Health Affairs, the cost per episode treated by nurse practitioners (NPs) in retail clinics was lower in states where NPs practice and prescribe…

Indoor smoking bans reduce children’s asthma ED visits

December 29, 2016

Emergency departments (EDs) in communities with indoor smoking bans report a 17% decrease in the number of children needing care for asthma attack, according to a study in…

Initial findings from National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses find more RNs and high workforce participation

March 11, 2010

The 2008 National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses found the number of RNs increased 5.3% since 2004 to more than 3 million. The workforce is more diverse, and…

Injury patterns in competitive college athletes identified

April 11, 2012

A study in the Journal of Athletic Training found that male competitive college athletes had a higher acute injury rate than their female counterparts, but female athletes had…

International home care conference

July 28, 2014

The Second International Home Care Nurses Organization Conference: Person-centred care in home-based nursing-service models, nursing roles and competencies will be held Sept. 23-26, 2014 in Singapore. Read more.

International Home Care Nurses Organization announces annual conference

December 18, 2014

The International Home Care Nurses Organization has announced that its third annual conference will be held July 8-10, 2015, in Chicago. Abstracts for presentations are due January 9.…

International Home Care Nurses Organization conference

June 4, 2015

The International Home Care Nurses Organization will hold its third annual conference, “Home Care: Providing Collaborative & Holistic Care,” July 8-10 in Chicago. Read more.

International Home Care Nurses Organization holds first conference

June 11, 2013

The International Home Care Nurses Organization will be holding its inaugural conference, The Future of Health Care Is at Home, on June 25-28 at Case Western Reserve University,…

Interprofessional teamwork improves RN job satisfaction

May 2, 2018

A study in Western Journal of Nursing Research reports that interprofessional teamwork improves registered nurses’ job satisfaction. (more…)

Intervention reduces ‘mean girl’ bullying

October 2, 2014

Researchers have developed and tested an intervention that effectively decreases relational aggression (“mean girl” bullying) among teen girls. The intervention, Growing Interpersonal Relationships through Learning and Systemic Supports…

IOM calls for reduced sodium intake in U.S.

April 11, 2010

Access “Strategies to Reduce Sodium Intake in the United States,” a report from the Institute of Medicine at “http://www.iom.edu/Reports/2010/Strategies-to-Reduce-Sodium-Intake-in-the-United-States.aspx”. It’s estimated that reductions in sodium could prevent more…

IOM releases report on accelerating new drug and diagnostics development

August 11, 2012

On Aug. 22, the Institute of Medicine released “Accelerating the development of new drugs and diagnostics: Maximizing the impact of the Cures Acceleration Network—Workshop Summary.” The report is…

IOM report recommends new nutrition rating system

October 11, 2011

An Institute of Medicine report (IOM) recommends that federal agencies develop a new front-of-package nutrition rating system that graphically tells calorie counts by service size and a “point”…

IOM says end-of-life care needs not being met

September 18, 2014

The U.S. healthcare system is not properly designed to meet the needs of patients nearing the end of life and those of their families, and major changes to…

Is intentional rounding effective?

October 16, 2019

A recent study from the National Institute for Health Research focuses on intentional rounding in hospitals to understand its efficacy for patients and healthcare providers. (more…)

JAMA focuses on conflict of interest

May 12, 2017

The May 2 JAMA explores the issue of conflict of interest through several open-access articles. Access the articles.

JAMA publishes special issue on end-of-life care

February 2, 2016

The January 19 issue of JAMA contains multiple articles related to end-of-life care, including physician-assisted suicide, cost of end-of-life care, and the role of ICUs. Read more

Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic Research

November 16, 2019

In early September 2019, Johns Hopkins opened its new Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, which explores the use of psychedelics on brain function, memory, and the brain’s…

Joint Commission awards first certifications for palliative care

February 11, 2012

The Joint Commission has awarded its new Advanced Certification for Palliative Care to five hospitals: Regions Hospital, St. Paul, Minn.; Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester, N.Y.; Mt. Sinai Medical…

Joint Commission issues new requirements for health and wellness programs

May 11, 2012

The Joint Commission has issued new requirements for hospitals accredited for behavioral health care, which includes health and wellness promotion programs. These institutions must have a must have…

Joint Commission issues Sentinel Event Alert on opioid use in hospitals

August 11, 2012

On Aug. 8, The Joint Commission released the Sentinel Event Alert, “Safe use of opioids in hospitals.” The Alert warns of opioid-induced respirator depression and offers strategies for…

Joint Commission proposes alarm management as 2014 National Patient Safety Goal

January 11, 2013

The Joint Commission is inviting comments on its proposed 2014 National Patient Safety Goal on management of alarms. The 15-question survey should take about 10 to 15 minutes…

Joint Commission releases Sentinel Event Alert

August 21, 2014

On Aug. 20, The Joint Commission released “Sentinel Event Alert 53: Managing risk during transition to new ISO tubing connector standards.” New ISO standards are being developed to…

Joint Commission releases Sentinel Event Alert in response to COVID-19 pandemic

February 5, 2021

Healthcare workers struggling, expressing fears Earlier this week, The Joint Commission released a Sentinel Event Alert addressing the fears of healthcare workers and outlining five strategies for supporting…

Joint Commission releases Sentinel Event Alert on healthcare work fatigue and patient safety

December 11, 2011

On Dec. 14, The Joint Commission issued a Sentinel Event Alert on healthcare worker fatigue and patient safety. Read the report, which includes recommendations for actions organizations can…

Lack of exercise responsible for more deaths than obesity

January 15, 2015

A study of more than 334,000 European men and women found that twice as many deaths may be attributable to lack of physical activity compared with the number…

Lack of sleep increases calorie intake

March 11, 2012

Researchers at the American Heart Association’s Epidemiology and Prevention/Nutrition, Physical Activity and Metabolism 2012 conference presented a study that showed insufficient sleep increases calorie intake by 549 kcal/day…

Lancet study suggests 9/11 firefighters may have higher risk of cancer

August 11, 2011

The Lancet has published a study that reports a “modest excess of cancer cases” in 9/11 New York City firefighters. The researchers caution that more information is needed…

Last surviving nurse taken prisoner in WW II dies

April 11, 2013

Mildred Dalton Manning, the last survivor of a group of nurses taken prisoner in the Philippines in World War II died in March at the age of 98.…

Later onset of menstruation, menopause may be associated with longer life

July 28, 2016

Women who start menstruation and experience menopause later in life may have increased chances of living to be 90, according to a study in Menopause. Read more and access…

Leapfrog Group says hospital safety improvements too slow

October 11, 2013

The Fall 2013 update to The Leapfrog Group Hospital Safety Score shows many hospitals are making headway in addressing errors, accidents, injuries, and infections that kill or hurt…

Legalized recreational marijuana may increase risk for cannabis use disorder

November 24, 2019

A recent study from JAMA Psychiatry examines this question: Has legalization of recreational marijuana in the United States affected the rates of cannabis use disorder (CUD)? (more…)

Less transfused blood doesn’t affect surgical mortality

December 11, 2014

Patients receiving liberal blood transfusions and those receiving smaller amounts have similar rates of postsurgical mortality, according to a study in The Lancet. The study supports the trend…

Lessons for more efficient research in healthcare settings

July 28, 2014

My Own Health Report, a collaboration between seven research institutions with the goal of streamlining how healthcare providers communicate with patients about preventative health topics, has identified four…

Lessons to be learned through aphasia

October 29, 2019

In recognition of World Stroke Day, I want to share some lessons I learned during a previous lifetime when I worked alongside people with aphasia (PWA) in an…

Lifetime risk of stroke

December 20, 2018

A study in The New England Journal of Medicine reports that the global lifetime risk of stroke from the age of 25 years onward is about 25% among…

Lifting restrictions on concealed carry guns increases violent crime

December 8, 2017

Lifting restrictions on concealed carry guns increases violent crime, and laws restricting gun ownership for people convicted of domestic violence reduces killings of female domestic partners, according to…

Linguistics in healthcare: Why it matters

January 15, 2020

MK Hedrick is a former colleague of mine who works in healthcare market research. When we worked together, we were tasked with trying to understand the ins and…

Link between missing tooth and CVD

March 22, 2018

Losing two or more teeth in middle age is associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk, according to a study reported at the American Heart Association’s Epidemiology and Prevention/Lifestyle…

Link between mitral valve prolapse and sudden cardiac death

September 27, 2018

A systematic review and meta-analysis in Heart reports that mitral valve prolapse is associated with sudden cardiac death. (more…)

Liver injury from herbals/dietary supplements rise

September 4, 2014

Liver injury caused by herbals and dietary supplements (HDS) increased from 7% to 20% in a U.S. study group over a ten-year period, according to an article in…

Local warming before tourniquet application increases vein size

April 27, 2017

Applying local warmth before a tourniquet significantly increases venodilation without adverse effects, according to a study in the International Journal of Nursing Studies. Read more

Long-term depression increases stroke risk

May 14, 2015

Persistent depression may double the risk of stroke in adults over 50, and stroke risk remains higher even after symptoms of depression go away, according to a study…

Longevity genes interconnected

April 11, 2014

An international group of scientists performed a comprehensive analysis and found that most genes that increase lifespan when overexpressed or mutated, as well as genetic and epigenetic mechanisms…

Low-risk pregnancies may result in fewer interventions with midwives

November 25, 2019

A new study from Obstetrics & Gynecology indicates that women with low-risk pregnancies, who delivered in a hospital setting with a midwife, may need fewer interventions and cesarean…

Lower ankle brachial index associated with mild cognitive impairment

July 23, 2015

A study in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease reports that mild cognitive impairment occurs significantly more often in individuals diagnosed with a lower ankle brachial index. Read more and…

Lowering BP prevents cardiovascular events in people with kidney disease

November 11, 2013

Lowering blood pressure (BP) is a highly effective and affordable way to prevent cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke among people with chronic kidney disease, according to…

Lung cancer mortality for women projected to increase more than 40% worldwide by 2030

August 2, 2018

The global age-standardized lung cancer mortality rate among women is projected to increase by 43% from 2015 to 2030, according to an analysis of data from 52 countries…

Making diabetes education more effective

January 26, 2020

Is individual or group education most effective for patients with diabetes? (more…)

Mammographic screening benefits may be overestimated

July 9, 2015

The mortality risk reduction benefits of mammographic screening have been overestimated, according to a study in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine. Read more and read the…

Many oncology patients fail to receive treatment for depressio

August 28, 2014

Three papers published in The Lancet Psychiatry, The Lancet, and The Lancet Oncology show that 73% of cancer patients who have major depression are not currently receiving treatment…

March of Dimes releases new nursing education modules

January 11, 2010

The March of Dimes has released three new nursing education modules: Diabetes in Pregnancy, 4th Edition; Genetic Issues for Perinatal Nurses, 3rd Edition; and Preterm Infants: Transition to…

Marijuana use more than doubles from 2001 to 2013

October 23, 2015

The estimated prevalence of adults who used marijuana in the past year more than doubled in the U.S. between 2001 and 2013 to 9.5%, according to an article…

Marriage may promote happiness

May 11, 2012

Marriage doesn’t make people happier than when they were single, but it does protect against normal decline in happiness during adulthood according to a study in the Journal…

Mary Naylor named to Medicare Payment Advisory Commission

May 11, 2010

Mary D. Naylor, PhD, RN, FAAN, of the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, has been appointed to the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission. MedPAC was established by Congress…

Maternal age and preterm birth

February 1, 2018

Women aged 40 years or older may have a higher risk for preterm birth, according to a study in PLoS. (more…)

Mayo Clinic launches Center for Social Media

July 11, 2010

The new Mayo Clinic Center for Social Media is intended to accelerate adoption of social media for healthcare purposes. Read more here.

Medicaid expansion and ED use

August 11, 2016

The expansion of Medicaid insurance coverage in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act did not increase hospital emergency department (ED) visits, but did strongly affect payer mix,…

Medical marijuana lowers prescription drug use

July 7, 2016

Legalized medical marijuana saved Medicare $165.2 million in 2013 by lowering prescription drug use, according to a study in Health Affairs. Read more and access the abstract.

Medical Mistrust Linked to Race, Discrimination

January 26, 2021

Researchers uncover links between levels of mistrust and ethnic backgrounds A new study finds that levels of medical mistrust of clinicians and healthcare systems closely correlate with race/ethnicity…

Medication adherence report gives U.S. C+

July 11, 2013

“2013 Medication Adherence in America: A National Report 2013” gives people in the U.S. with chronic medical conditions a C+ grade. The report, from the National Community Pharmacists…

Medications & daily exercise: Potential adverse reactions

October 21, 2019

One of the most important care suggestions nurses and other healthcare providers may have for their patients is to exercise more. A recent article from Healthline offers insight…

Mediterranean diet may reduce frailty risk

January 11, 2018

A study in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society reports that eating a Mediterranean diet reduces the risk for frailty on adults 60 years or older who…

Melanoma risk factors after kidney transplant

July 27, 2017

Melanoma risk factors for patients who have undergone kidney transplant include being older, white, and male, according to a study in JAMA Dermatology. Read more

Meniscal transplants can relive pain, delay surgery

August 6, 2015

In patients younger than 50 years who have a torn or severely damaged meniscus, a meniscal transplant can reduce pain, improve knee function, and delay major surgery, according…

MERS resources from the CDC

May 11, 2014

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has published information about Middle East Respiratory System (MERS) for healthcare professionals. The information includes interim guidance, case definitions, and…

Metformin may have role in pre-eclampsia

December 22, 2015

A study in American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology reports that metformin may have the potential to prevent and treat pre-eclampsia. Read more and read the study abstract.

Mice study finds genetic link between lung cancer and emphysema

June 11, 2011

In a study of mice, scientists found that a gene associated with emphysema can also cause the development of lung cancer not related to smoking. Read more.

Michelle Obama, Mary Wakefield discuss Affordable Care Act

September 11, 2010

First Lady Michelle Obama and Mary Wakefield, PhD, RN, Administrator for the Health Resources and Services Administration held a conference call on Sept. 28 with nurses from across…

Mind/body intervention boosts IVF patient pregnancy rates

May 11, 2011

Women who underwent a mind/body intervention had a high pregnancy rate after in vitro fertilization (IVF) according to a study published by Fertility and Sterility. Read more at…

Mindfulness mediation may affect memory

September 10, 2015

Mindfulness meditation may make memories less accurate, according to a study in Psychological Science. Read more and read the study abstract.

Mindfulness reduces depression

August 18, 2016

Eight weeks of mindfulness training helped alleviate depression and reduce stress in African-American women with lower socioeconomic status, according to a study in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice.…

Moderate alcohol consumption associated with adverse brain effects

June 14, 2017

Alcohol consumption, even at moderate levels, is associated with adverse brain effects, according to a study in BMJ. Read more

Moderate alcohol use associated with left atrial enlargement

October 11, 2016

A study in the Journal of the American Heart Association reports that moderate alcohol intake (an average of just over one drink per day) is a predictor of…

Moderate coffee intake may be beneficial

December 2, 2015

Drinking coffee daily is associated with a lower risk of deaths from Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological diseases in nonsmokers, according to a study in Circulation.…

More Baby Boomers facing old age alone

April 11, 2012

Statistics from the Bowling Green State University’s National Center for Family and Marriage Research show that one-third of adults aged 45-63 are unmarried —a more than 50% increase…

More hospital observation units could save $3.1 billion a year

September 11, 2012

“Making Greater Use Of Dedicated Hospital Observation Units For Many Short-Stay Patients Could Save $3.1 Billion A Year,” published in Health Affairs, states that only about a third…

More than half of liver transplant recipients develop metabolic syndrome

December 11, 2010

According to a study in January’s Liver Transplantation, more than half (52%) of liver transplant recipients develop metabolic syndrome. Read more at http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/lt.22198/abstract.

Mortality risk for obesity similar for blacks, whites

October 9, 2014

A study in PLOS One has found that the increased risk of premature death associated with a higher body mass index (BMI) is similar for African Americans and…

MRI may help predict response to antidepressants

January 26, 2017

A functional MRI brain scan may help predict which patients will respond positively to antidepressant therapy, according to a study in Brain. Read more and read the study abstract.

Multitasking with media devices may change brain structure

September 26, 2014

According to a study in PLOS One, people who frequently use several media devices at the same time have lower grey-matter density in one particular region of the…

Nearly half of medical care in U.S. is delivered in EDs

October 19, 2017

A study in International Journal of Health Services reports that 47.7% of medical care in the United States is delivered in emergency departments (EDs). (more…)

Nearly half of new nurses work weekly overtime

February 25, 2019

New nurses are predominantly scheduled for 12 hour shifts and nearly half work weekly overtime, according to a study in JAN. (more…)

Nearly half of nurses plan career change

March 11, 2010

A 2010 survey of registered nurses from AMN healthcare found that 44% of the 1,399 nurses who completed the survey plan to make a career change over the…

Nearly half of patients with hepatitis C on Medicaid denied drug coverage

December 2, 2015

Nearly 50% of Medicaid patients infected with chronic hepatitis C whose doctors had prescribed newer, life-saving antiviral drugs were denied coverage to the therapies because they weren’t considered…

Need to promote Choosing Wisely campaign identified

February 28, 2019

Only half of ICU providers are familiar with the Critical Care Societies Collaborative Choosing Wisely recommendations, according to a report in Critical Care Medicine. Choosing Wisely is an…

Negative effects of ARDS linger

March 11, 2011

Five years after having acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), survivors still had not recovered to normal physical function, and many other physical and psychological problems persisted or developed…

Negative job situation puts nurses at risk for depression

October 11, 2010

The Canadian Journal of Nursing Research reports that nurses who experience job strain, role overload, and a lack of respect have an increased risk of depression. Read more…

NEJM interviews HHS Secretary on healthcare reform

December 11, 2010

The New England Journal of Medicine features an interview about healthcare reform with Health and Human Services’ Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. Read more at http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp1014722.

NEJM study finds low RN staffing increases mortality

March 11, 2011

According to a study in the New England Journal of Medicine, RN staffing that falls below targeted levels was associated with increased mortality. Read more at http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMsa1001025.

NEJM: Perspective on foodborne diseases

February 11, 2011

The Feb. 23 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) includes a perspective on foodborne disease. Read it at http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp1010907.

NEJM: Public views on Medicare and the budget deficit

July 11, 2011

The July 13 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine includes an insightful review of public polling on Medicare and how public opinion has contributed to the…

New certification for oncology rehabilitation

January 11, 2010

Oncology Rehab Partners has launched STAR (Suvivorship Training and Rehab) Clinician Certification, a training and certification program for clinicians in oncology rehabilitation. Access a demo at http://www.sturdymemorial.org/images/pdfs/Cancer_Outcomes_Report_2015.pdf

New colorectal screening guidelines

March 11, 2010

Screening for colorectal cancer is still underused, especially by low-income people, the uninsured, Asians and Hispanics, foreign-born people, and those with limited English-language skills according to a new…

New exam for identifying concussion

September 11, 2014

A study in the American Journal of Sports Medicine reports that a new test, Vestibular/Ocular Motor Screening (VOMS), was 90% accurate in identifying patients with concussion. The test…

New FDA regulation for improving safety reporting in clinical trials discussed in The New England Journal of Medicine.

June 11, 2011

The June 8 edition of The New England Journal of Medicine includes “New FDA Regulation to Improve Safety Reporting in Clinical Trials.” Read here.

New film spotlights nurses

April 11, 2013

“NURSES: If Florence Could See Us Now” is a new documentary that showcases the challenging and diverse world of nursing. The film highlights the compassion of real nurses,…

New findings about dogs and allergies

November 19, 2018

According to a study in Scientific Reports, growing up with dogs is linked to a lower risk of asthma, especially if the dogs are female, but there is…

New findings from the American Cancer Society on reduced cancer mortality rates

January 18, 2020

Based on new findings from a 2020 American Cancer Society report, mortality rates from cancer have declined by 29% between 1991 to 2017 in the US. Additionally, between…

New guidelines for care of the perioperative geriatric patient

January 7, 2016

The American College of Surgeons has released “Optimal Perioperative Care of the Geriatric Patient” Read more.

New guidelines for exercise during cancer treatment

November 19, 2019

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recently released new guidelines for exercise prescriptions while patients are undergoing cancer treatment. (more…)

New guidelines for managing care of breast cancer survivors

December 10, 2015

The American Cancer Society and the American Society of Clinical Oncology have released a new Breast Cancer Survivorship Care Guideline to help breast cancer survivors and their primary…

New guidelines for nutritional support of critically ill pediatric patients

July 14, 2017

The American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition and the Society of Critical Care Medicine have released guidelines for nutritional support in pediatric critically ill patients. Access the…

New guidelines for the management of school-based asthma

January 10, 2020

The Community Preventative Services Task Force (CPSTF) recently released new recommendations around the management of school-based asthma. These management strategies aim to reduce the amount of hospitalizations and…

New guidelines for treating cancer of the esophagus

November 13, 2014

The November 2014 issue of The Annals of Thoracic Surgery includes practice guidelines on the use of multimodality treatment for cancer of the esophagus and gastroesophageal junction. Read…

New guidelines for treatment of malaria

March 11, 2010

The World Health Organization has released new guidelines for malaria treatment to counter the misuse of anti-malarial drugs. Access the guidelines at http://www.who.int/malaria/en/.

New guidelines on healthcare personnel attire

January 11, 2014

The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America has issued guidance for “Healthcare Personnel Attire in Non-Operating-Room Settings,” published in the Journal of Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology. The…

New HHS funding program to help veterans with medical skills become nurses

May 11, 2013

On April 29, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) announce a program designed to help military veterans with health care experience or training, such as…

New HPV vaccine offers greater protection against cervical cancer

February 19, 2015

A study in The New England Journal of Medicine Scientists reports that a new HPV (human papilloma virus) vaccine protects against nine types of the virus, seven of…

New international consensus statement on sport concussion released

April 27, 2017

The 2017 Concussion in Sport Group (CISG) consensus statement in British Journal of Sports Medicine emphasizes “recognize and remove.” Access the statement

New measures in understanding patients’ treatment burden

October 27, 2019

A recent study from Mayo Clinic reveals new insights for healthcare providers in understanding patients’ acceptable threshold in withstanding treatment burden. (more…)

New policies for evaluating living kidney donors approved by OPTN/UNOS

November 11, 2012

The OPTN/UNOS Board of Directors has approved policies aimed at creating greater consistency in the medical and psychosocial evaluation and informed consent processes for living kidney donors and…

New recommendations for Choosing Wisely® Campaign

March 23, 2017

The American Academy of Nursing has added five new Choosing Wisely® recommendations related to often routine treatments that may not always be necessary or even in the best…

New report addresses engagement with consumers

February 11, 2013

“Engaging Health Care Users: A Framework for Healthy Individuals and Communities,” a report from the American Hospital Association, recommends hospitals become more “activist” in their endeavors to engage…

New report calls for action to address clinician burnout

October 28, 2019

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine have released a new report highlighting the need to reduce clinician burnout. (more…)

New report calls for improvement in diagnosing

September 24, 2015

“Improving Diagnosis in Health Care,” a new report from the Institute of Medicine states “most people will experience at least one diagnostic error in their lifetime, sometimes with…

New report on Gulf War and health

November 29, 2018

A new report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommends the creation of a health monitoring and research program to help determine if the descendants…

New report on health information exchange released

July 11, 2011

“Secrets of HIE Success Revealed: Lessons from the Leaders,” a report released by the National eHealth Collaborative, features 12 case studies of mature health information exchange (HIE) organizations.…

New report says more than 13% of Medicare patients experience adverse events during hospital stay

November 11, 2010

A new report from the Department of Health and Human Services says an estimated 13.5% of Medicare patients experience adverse events during their hospital stays. Read more here.

New research in the prevention of venous thromboembolism

November 18, 2019

A recent study examines the use of intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) to prevent venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients who are at high-risk for the condition after surgery.

New research uncovers six different forms of prediabetes

January 11, 2021

Implications for the prevention of type 2 diabetes The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported that approximately 88 million adults in the United States have prediabetes,…

New resource for pain management in the elderly

January 11, 2010

Visit a new one-stop resource for managing pain in the elderly at www.geriatricpain.org. Sections of the site include pain assessment, pain management, education, quality improvement, resources, and FAQs.…

New sepsis bundle released

May 2, 2018

According to an article in Intensive Care Medicine, the Surviving Sepsis Campaign has created the “hour-1 bundle” for managing sepsis to streamline care and encourage rapid treatment. (more…)

New sleep recommendations

February 12, 2015

A panel convened by the National Sleep Foundation has issued recommendations for sleep based on age. The recommendation for young adults and adults is 7 to 9 hours…

New study on physician disruptive behavior released

May 11, 2011

The American College of Physician Executives and QuantiaMD have released a survey and white paper, “Disruptive Physician Behavior.” More than 70% physicians surveyed reported that disruptive physician behavior…

New suicide prevention guidelines

June 18, 2015

The Suicide Prevention Resource Center has published, “Comprehensive Emergency Department Guide Provides U.S. Health Care Professionals with Vital Tools in Caring for Adult Patients with Suicide Risk.” Read…

New survey on family caregivers released

October 11, 2012

The AARP Public Policy Institute and the United Hospital Fund have released the report “Home Alone: Family Caregivers Providing Complex Chronic Care,” a survey of 1,677 family caregivers.…

New TB test safe, effective

May 19, 2016

A new skin test for tuberculosis (TB), C-Tb, is safe, easy to administer, and accurate, according to results from two Phase III clinical trials reported at the ATS…

New tool for detecting concussion

July 14, 2017

Researchers have developed a new tool for detecting concussion, according to a study in the European Journal of Neuroscience, although more research is needed before it can be applied…

New tool for predicting asthma in children

December 17, 2018

An article in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology reports on the Pediatric Asthma Risk Score, a new tool that clinician can use to predict asthma in children. (more…)

NHSC opens applications for student loan repayment program

December 11, 2010

The National Health Service Corps (NHSC), a federal program that helps nurse practitioners and certified nurse midwives deal with their student debt, while addressing the current shortage of…

Nicotine-free inhaler helps stop smoking

May 11, 2011

In a study of 120 smokers, those who saw handling of the cigarette as an important part of smoking and used a nicotine-free inhaler (“fake cigarette) as part…

Night shift workers may be more at risk for car crashes

December 29, 2015

A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has found an increased risk of drowsy driving related motor vehicle crashes, as well as an increase…

Nitroglycerin ointment slightly increases bone mineral density in postmenopausal women

February 11, 2011

Nitroglycerin ointment applied at bedtime for 2 years slightly increased bone mineral density in postmenopausal women states a study in JAMA. Read more at http://jama.ama-assn.org/content/305/8/800.abstract.

Nonfatal occupational injuries among healthcare workers increase

November 11, 2011

According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, the incidence rate for nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses requiring days away from work in 2010 for…

Nonsurgery intervention effective for carefully selected patients with penetrating abdominal wounds

December 11, 2011

A study of the use of selective non-operative management (SNOM) for gunshot and stab abdominal wounds found that the practice increased from 2002 to 2008 and that it’s…

NQF endorses more patient safety measures

December 11, 2012

The National Quality Forum (NQF) Board of Directors has endorsed 12 patient safety measures, including those related to patient falls, pressure ulcers, and healthcare-associated infections. The measures were…

Number of deaths after surgery declines

January 11, 2012

The number of inpatient deaths occurring within 30 days of surgery declined from 1996 to 2006 despite an increase in surgical volume according to a study in the…

Number of early elective deliveries fall slightly, but more work needed

January 11, 2012

A survey from the Leapfrog Group released on Jan. 25 found that 39% of hospitals had an elective newborn delivery rate of 5% or less, compared to 30%…

Number of RN smokers declines

February 11, 2014

According to a study in JAMA, the number of RNs who smoke significantly declined from 2003 to 2010-2011 (from 11% to 7%, a 36% decline.) The 2010-2011 survey…

Number of women living with metastatic breast cancer growing

May 18, 2017

The number of women living with metastatic breast cancer increased by 4% from 1990 to 2000 and by 17% from 2000 to 2010, according to a study in…

Nurse manager role in incivility

October 13, 2017

Supportive nurse mangers reduce the incidence of coworker incivility, according to a study in the Journal of Nursing Management. (more…)

Nurse names new head of Institute for Healthcare Improvement

June 11, 2010

Maureen Bisognano, who started her career as a staff nurse, was named chief executive officer for Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI), replacing Donald Berwick, MD, who President Barack…

Nurse perception of nurse-driven protocol to remove urinary catheters

July 16, 2015

A study in Urologic Nursing reports nurses perceive improved job ease and positive patient feedback after implementation of a nurse-driven catheter-removal protocol. Read more.

Nurses discuss the future of nursing in NEJM

December 11, 2010

On Dec. 15 The New England Journal of Medicine published two perspective articles by nurses. Linda H. Aiken, PhD, RN’s “Nurses for the Future” discusses the recent recommendations…

Nurses remain woefully underrepresented in news stories

May 16, 2018

The classic 1997 Woodhull Study on Nursing and the Media found that nurses were identified as sources in only 4% of quotations or other sourcing in health news…

Nurses report low competency in EBP

February 9, 2018

Most nurses report that they aren’t competent in meeting any of the 24 evidence-based practice competencies (EBP), according to a survey published in Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing. (more…)

Nurses, physicians differ in perceptions of physician abuse or disrespect

February 11, 2012

According to results from HealthLeaders Media Industry Survey 2012, 42% of nurse leaders said physician abuse or disrespect of nurses was common, compared to only 13% of physician…

Nurses’ job dissatisfaction contributes to costly labor disputes, turnover, and risk to patients

February 11, 2011

Nurses’ job dissatisfaction contributes to costly labor disputes, turnover, and risk to patients according to a report in February’s Health Affairs. Read more here.

Nursing ethics report released

December 31, 2014

Access “A blueprint for 21st century nursing ethics: Report of the National Nursing Summit”

Nursing profession ranked most honest and ethical profession for 18 times in a row

January 7, 2020

The results of the Annual Gallup poll were released on January 6, 2020 which, for the 18th consecutive year, revealed that nurses were ranked as the #1 most…

Obesity may affect quality of care in nursing home

June 7, 2016

A study in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society indicates that nursing homes that admit more morbidly obese residents are more likely to have more severe deficiencies…

OJIN releases articles on how to create a culture of safety

October 11, 2011

The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing (OJIN) has published fives article on how to create a culture of safety. Read more.

Older adults feel burden of healthcare system

October 16, 2015

Nearly four in ten older adults say that managing their health care needs is difficult for them or their families, that medical appointments or tests get delayed or…

Older adults often closed out of clinical trials

February 11, 2011

More than half of clinical trials exclude older adults according to a study in the Journal of General Internal Medicine. Read more here.

Older men slow to take preventive steps for osteoporosis

June 9, 2015

Older men are far less likely than women to take preventive measures against osteoporosis or accept recommendations for screening, according to a study presented at the American Geriatrics…

Only about half of teenage girls receive HPV vaccine at recommended age

January 22, 2015

A study from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston found that almost half of the teenage girls they surveyed received the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine when…

Oral chlorhexidine can help prevent VAP

July 19, 2018

Chlorhexidine is effective as part of oral care to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), according to a study in Western Journal of Nursing Research. (more…)

OSHA launches new safety website

January 11, 2014

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) has launched its Worker Safety in Hospitals website, which include many resources to help hospitals to prevent worker injuries. Access the…

OSHA takes new steps to protect nurses

July 2, 2015

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) has released inspection guidance that targets musculoskeletal disorders related to patient or resident handling; workplace violence; bloodborne pathogens; tuberculosis; and slips,…

Passive leg-raising may help predict fluid responsiveness

April 27, 2017

Passive leg-raising helps predict response to fluid administration given to patients in shock, according to a study in Critical Care Nurse. Read more

Patient outcomes similar for ICU patients under ACNP and resident team care

January 7, 2016

Outcomes are comparable for critically ill patients cared for by acute care nurse practitioners (ACNP) and resident teams, according to a study in CHEST. Read more.

Patient satisfaction now factors into Medicare reimbursement

October 11, 2012

Starting Oct. 1, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services began withholding hospital’s Medicare reimbursement based on their quality performance; 30% of the decision is derived from how…

Patient/family/visitor “hot line” prevents medical errors

June 11, 2011

The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center has a “hot line” that patients, families, or visitors can call if they see something wrong and think staff isn’t responding appropriately.…

Pelvic floor muscle exercises effective for urinary incontinence in women

April 11, 2012

A comparative effectiveness report from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality states that pelvic floor muscle exercises (similar to Kegel exercises) are effective in increasing the ability…

Perception of care for the dying worsens

May 7, 2015

Surveys of loved ones who lost elderly relatives show that the perception of the quality of care for the dying in the United States has worsened over the…

Persistent cognitive changes after concussion

December 20, 2018

Young adults who experienced repetitive mild traumatic brain injury can experience persistent cognitive changes as well as altered brain activity, according to a study in the European Journal…

Persistent fatigue after breast cancer may speed aging

March 11, 2011

Researchers have found that persistent fatigue in breast cancer survivors may be caused by disruption in the autonomic system, and could make some patients seem as much as…

Physician supports APRNs in Atlantic article

May 11, 2012

John Rowe, a physician who is professor in the department of health policy and management at the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, has written “Why Nurses…

Placebos without deception effective for IBS

December 11, 2010

An open-label study of 80 patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) found that those who knew they were receiving a placebo still experienced improvements, including reduced symptom severity,…

Pneumonia, sepsis may increase risk of cardiovascular disease

August 7, 2017

Pneumonia or sepsis in adults associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Sophia Antipolis, 2 August 2017: Pneumonia or sepsis in adults that results in hospital admission is…

Point-of-care testing for HCV

April 12, 2018

Scientists have developed and validated a rapid, reliable, point-of-care assay for hepatitis C virus (HCV), which will be helpful for countries with limited resources. (more…)

Polypectomy lowers colorectal cancer mortality

February 11, 2012

A study in the New England Journal of Medicine reports that mortality from colorectal cancer was about 50% lower among patients who had adenomatous polyps removed compared to…

Poor diet increases risk for late-stage age-related macular degeneration

January 7, 2020

A new study from the British Journal of Ophthalmology has revealed a link between poor diet and the increased risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD is irreversible…

Poor mental health linked to poor diet quality

February 25, 2019

A study in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition reports that poor mental health is linked with poor diet quality among California adults, regardless of characteristics…

Position statement on diabetes self-management education released

June 11, 2015

“Diabetes self-management education and support in type 2 diabetes: A joint position statement of the American Diabetes Association, the American Association of Diabetes Educators, and the Academy of…

Positive results after bariatric surgery in adolescents

November 12, 2015

Three years after undergoing bariatric surgery, adolescents experienced major improvements in their weight, metabolic health, and quality of life, according to a study in The New England Journal…

Positive RN staffing reduces stroke mortality

August 21, 2014

The ratio of RNs on the weekends affects mortality outcomes after stroke, according to a study in PLOS Medicine. Patients admitted to a unit with 1.5 nurses/ten beds…

Possible blood test for Alzheimer’s disease

July 20, 2017

Decades before people with Alzheimer’s disease develop memory loss and confusion, their brains become dotted with plaques made of a sticky protein – called amyloid beta – that…

Potential consideration for physicians regarding cannabis edibles

January 9, 2020

In early January 2020, the Canadian Medical Association Journal published a commentary from Drs. Jasleen Grewal and Lawrence Loh regarding potential concerns around the use of cannabis edibles.…

Potential new treatment for peanut allergies

November 6, 2019

Aimmune Therapeutics is set to present new data on its AR101 compound, Palforzia, a potential new treatment for peanut allergies, in early November 2019 at the American College…

Pre-eclampisa associated with increased of dementia later in life

October 23, 2018

Women with a history of pre-eclampsia have more than three times the risk of vascular dementia later in life, compared with women with no history of pre-eclampsia, according…

Prebariatric surgery weight and outcomes

July 27, 2017

Obese patients who undergo bariatric surgery are more like to achieve a body mass index (BMI) of less than 30 one year after surgery if they have a…

Predicting Clostridium difficile infection

January 10, 2019

A study in the American Journal of Infection Control identifies predictors of Clostridium difficile infection in hospitalized patients—emergency department location (compared with ICU), high-risk antibiotics, probiotics, and statins.…

Predicting depressive symptoms in older adults

November 19, 2018

Age-related declines in abstract reasoning ability predict increasing depressive symptoms in subsequent years, according to a study in Psychological Science. (more…)

Pregnant Women With Covid Pass Antibodies to Babies, Study Finds

February 11, 2021

Pregnant women who contract Covid-19 pass protective antibodies to their newborns, a finding that could help determine when the women should get Covid vaccines. The study found that…

Premature birth may increase risk of heart disease in mothers

January 25, 2018

Women who give birth prematurely have increased risk of mortality from coronary heart disease, according to a study in the Journal of the American Heart Association. (more…)

Prescribed opioids among pregnant women may have contributed to increase in neonatal abstinence syndrome

January 14, 2016

The increase in use of prescribed opioids among women during pregnancy has probably contributed to the rise in neonatal abstinence syndrome, according to an editorial in BMJ. Read…

Probiotics may help allergies

March 2, 2017

Consuming certain probiotics helps improve quality of life in seasonal allergy sufferers, according to a study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Read more

Probiotics reduces depression in patients with IBS

May 25, 2017

A study in Gastroenterology reports that probiotics reduces depression in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and increases quality of life. Read more

Program reduces bullying in preschool children

March 10, 2016

Early Childhood Friendship Project, an eight-week program, reduced bullying behaviors in preschool children, according to a study in School Psychology Review. Read more

Progress on nurses working environment made

April 12, 2019

A study in Critical Care Nurse reports that the health of critical-care nurses’ work environments has improved since 2013, but staffing remains a major concern. (more…)

Prostate biopsies can increase risk of hospitalization

September 11, 2011

Men 65 years or older are more likely to be hospitalized within 30 days after a prostate biopsy than men of the same age range who did not…

Protocol reduces complications for complex spinal surgery

March 11, 2014

A team approach reduces rates of major complications for complex spinal reconstructive surgery by two thirds, according to a report in Spine Deformity. The three main features are:…

Public reporting of quality data has not significantly reduced mortality

February 11, 2012

According to a study in March’s Health Affairs, public reporting of quality data as part of Hospital Compare, Medicare’s public reporting initiative, has had “minimal impact” on patient…

RAC audits continue to increase

March 11, 2013

A new report from the American Hospital Association says recovery and contractor (RAC) audits continue to increase. Of the 1,233 hospitals that responded to the survey, nearly 60,000…

Racial bias in health care

August 27, 2015

On Aug. 11, JAMA published “Racial Bias in Health Care and Health: Challenges and Opportunities.” Read the viewpoint.

Radial approach safer than femoral for coronary angiogram

March 26, 2015

Patients undergoing coronary angiography have a significantly lower risk of major bleeding and mortality if the procedure is performed by using the radial, instead of the femoral, approach,…

Rand report calls for more action to prevent military suicide

February 11, 2011

“The War Within: Preventing Suicide in the U.S. Military,” a report released by the Rand Corporation, states U.S. military officials should improve their efforts to identify those at…

Rate of not-for-profit hospital revenue growth lowest in two decades, says Moody’s

August 11, 2011

A report from Moody’s says that the rate of not-for-profit hospital revenue growth lowest in two decades. Read more.

RDA for vitamin D may be too low

March 19, 2015

According to researchers, the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for vitamin D, from the National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine, is underestimated by a factor of 10. Read…

Regular use of aspirin may reduce pancreatic cancer risk

December 21, 2016

Regular use of aspirin was associated with a lower risk of pancreatic cancer in people living in Shanghai, China. Read more

Research consent forms still too complex

July 11, 2011

A study of 124 consent forms used in HIV network trials sponsored by the National Institutes of Health found that the average readability was 9.2 grade level, with…

Research insufficient to support connection between sports concussion and CTE

May 21, 2015

Available research is insufficient to establish causation between sports concussion and traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), according to an article in Neurodegeneration and Sport. Read more.

Researchers study power failures in prosthetics

December 2, 2014

Researchers have identified reasons for power failures in prosthetics worn by amputees, which could help in future design work. Read more and read the study abstract.

Restrictions on CRNA practice do not improve patient safety

June 7, 2016

A study in Medical Care reports that scope of practice restrictions and physician requirements for certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) have no effect on anesthesia patient safety, but…

Revision of Iowa Model

June 22, 2017

The Iowa Model used for implementing evidence-based practice has been revised, according to a report in Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing. Read more

Rise in chronic venous insufficiency procedures

April 14, 2017

The use of procedures to treat chronic venous insufficiency in Medicare patients increased markedly from 2005 through 2014, according to a study in Journal of Vascular and Interventional…

Risk factors for IAD in ICU patients identified

February 26, 2018

Liquid stool, diabetes, age, smoking, non-use of diapers, fever, and low oxygen saturation are associated with incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) category 2 (skin loss) in critically ill patients with…

Risk factors for suicide attempts by Army personnel identified

July 9, 2015

A study in JAMA Psychiatry reports factors associated with a higher risk of suicide among enlisted soldiers include female sex, entering the Army at 25 years or older,…

Risk for second surgery to remove vaginal mesh low

September 10, 2015

A follow-up of nearly 60,000 women who received a synthetic vaginal mesh sling for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence finds the risk is low for needing a…

RN workforce ‘bubble’ predicted to burst

March 11, 2012

Writing in The New England Journal of Medicine, nursing workforce experts state that the recent increase in the RN workforce is “largely a temporary bubble that is likely…

RNs stay close to home after graduation

November 11, 2011

More than half (52.5%) of newly licensed RNs in 15 states work within 40 miles of where they attended high school according to a study in Health Affairs.…

Role of sleep abnormality in schizophrenia

October 21, 2016

A sleep abnormality likely plays an important role in schizophrenia, according to an article in Biological Psychiatry. Read more and access the study abstract.

Rotating night shifts may increase risk of type 2 diabetes

November 11, 2011

Female nurses who rotated night shifts (at least three night/month in addition to days and evenings in that month) had a “modestly increased” risk of type 2 diabetes…

RWJ Foundation offers free CE program on reducing hospital readmissions

May 11, 2013

The Robert Wood Johnson (RWJ) Foundation is offering a free continuing education course for nurses and other healthcare providers on best practices for reducing avoidable hospital readmissions. The…

RWJF launches new website

November 11, 2010

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) has launched http://www.thefutureofnursing.org, a resource that includes the research and data behind the Institute of Medicine (IOM) Future of Nursing report recommendations.…

Saline shortages overview

March 22, 2018

On March 21, The New England Journal of Medicine published an overview of the problem of saline shortages. (more…)

Schizophrenia and the Epstein-Barr virus

January 10, 2019

People with schizophrenia have higher levels of antibodies to some Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) proteins (indicating an aberrant response to EBV infection) compared to those without schizophrenia, according to…

Score for predicting duration of ventilator weaning

December 6, 2018

How long will it take to wean a patient requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation once a tracheostomy is placed? Clinicians may soon be able to better answer that question…

Screening for colorectal cancer

June 22, 2017

The U.S. Preventive Services Task has released a recommendation statement on screening for colorectal cancer; the statement recommends that screening should start at age 50 years and continue…

Screening for OSA in primary care

March 29, 2019

The Stop -Bang screening tool can reliably predict the presence of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), according to a study in Applied Nursing Research. Screening is…

Self-acupressure app reduces menstrual pain

April 5, 2018

A smartphone app for self-acupressure reduced menstrual pain, according to a study in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology. (more…)

Sentinel event alert on violence against healthcare workers

April 19, 2018

On April 16, The Joint Commission released “Sentinel Event Alert 59: Physical and verbal violence against health care workers,” which notes that 25% of nurses report being physically…

Sexually transmitted diseases treatment guidelines published

June 11, 2015

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has published “Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines, 2015 in MMWR. ” Access the guidelines.

Share your military nurse stories

June 11, 2010

Sigma Theta Tau International is planning a book titled You’ll Know You’re a Military Nurse When… You can share you story with others and for possible inclusion in…

Single sigmoidoscopy screen reduces colorectal cancers

August 11, 2011

Undergoing a single screening sigmoidoscopy between ages 55 and 64 reduced the incidence of colorectal cancer according to a study of 34,272. Read more.

Six ways to prevent medication diversion in home care

October 18, 2019

An article in HomeCare outlines six strategies for preventing medication diversion in the home. (more…)

Sleep disruptions may increase risk of suicide

August 25, 2016

Interviews with 18 participants reveal a link between sleep problems and suicidal thoughts, according to a study in BMJ Open. For example, being awake at night heighted the…

Smoking and mental illness

July 11, 2011

The July 21 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine has a thoughtful essay, “Smoking and Mental Illness — Breaking the Link” that dispels myths that contribute…

Smoking may increase risks for patients receiving therapy for prostate cancer

February 10, 2015

Among patients with prostate cancer, those who smoke have increased risks of experiencing side effects from treatment and of developing future cancer recurrences, or even dying from prostate…

Smoking soon after waking may increase cancer risk

August 11, 2011

Smoking the first cigarette soon after waking is associated with a greater risk of head and neck cancer according to a study published by Cancer. Read more..

Soap and water wins again

April 11, 2010

Washing your hands with soap and water instead of alcohol-based rubs is more effective for removing Clostridium difficile spores from the hands according to a study in Infection…

Social Security improvements results in longer life spans

February 11, 2011

A study published in the Journal of Public Health Policy found that Americans over the age of 65 experienced steep declines in the rate of mortality in the…

Some antibiotics used during pregnancy may increase risk of congenital malformations

July 20, 2017

Competing interests: Anick Bérard is a consultant for plaintiffs in litigations involving antidepressants and birth defects. Flory Tsobo Muanda and Odile Sheehy report no conflicts of interest. (more…)

Split liver transplants and pediatric patients

January 3, 2019

A study in Liver Transplantation reports no difference in outcome between patients who received split liver transplants and those who received a whole liver, and children in worse…

Staggering number of alarms identified

October 23, 2014

A study in PLOS ONE found more than 2.5 million patient monitoring alarms in one month in one hospital. Many were caused by a complex interplay of inappropriate…

Standardized glycemic protocol reduces costs

February 5, 2016

Using a standardized glycemic protocol improves glycemic control and reduces healthcare cost, according to a study in Clinical Nursing Research. Read more.

Standardized patient “hand off” reduces medical errors

April 11, 2012

Using the patient “hand off” tool I-PASS reduced medical errors by 40% according to a study at Boston Children’s Hospital. I-PASS stands for: I = Illness severity, P…

Startling number of older adults take prescription drugs that increase risk of falling

March 18, 2021

A surprising recent study found that 94 percent of adults 65 years or older take at least one prescription drug that increases the risk for falls. The study,…

Statins lower prostate cancer recurrence

March 11, 2011

Men with high-risk prostate cancer who take statin drugs while receiving radiation therapy are less likely to have their cancer return than patients who don’t take statins according…

Strategies for managing “weekend effect” of surgeries

October 16, 2015

According to a study in Annals of Surgery, the following resources can help address the fact that patients who undergo urgent surgeries on weekends to experience longer hospital…

Stroke patients get faster treatment at endovascular centers

July 28, 2016

Stroke patients who go directly to an endovascular center could receive treatment 99 minutes earlier, according to a new study presented at the Society of NeuroInterventional Surgery’s (SNIS)…

Stroller- or carrier-related injuries

August 18, 2016

From 1990 through 2010, almost 361,000 children aged 5 years and younger were treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments for stroller- or carrier-related injuries, about two children every…

Study fails to show benefit of adding vitamin C to treatment of septic shock

January 23, 2020

A study recently published in the Journal of the American Medial Association aimed to examine if a treatment combination of vitamin C, hydrocortisone, and thiamine would lead to…

Study fails to support MRV link to CFS

April 11, 2011

A study published by the Journal of Virology failed to find an association between chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and murine leukemia virus-related viruses (MRV), and states, “off-label use…

Study finds link between vitamin D and prostate cancer

October 23, 2014

Researchers writing in Prostate report that the gene GDF-15, known to be upregulated by Vitamin D, is notably absent in samples of human prostate cancer driven by inflammation…

Study finds patient satisfaction is associated with higher mortality

February 11, 2012

A study in the Archives of Internal Medicine reports that higher patient satisfaction was associated with higher overall health care expenditures and increased mortality. Read more.

Study finds people with obesity are ‘dehumanized’

April 12, 2019

A study in Obesity reports that people with obesity are “blatantly dehumanized”. (more…)

Study finds radiofrequency ablation effective for Barrett’s esophagus

August 11, 2011

Radiofrequency ablation for Barrett’s esophagus with dysplasia has an acceptable safety profile and is associated with a low rate of disease progression, for up to 3 years according…

Study identifies barriers to patient safety

May 11, 2013

A study by AIG of hospital C-suite executives and risk managers in the United States found that the largest barrier to patient safety is lack of teamwork, negative…

Study in Health Affairs states surgical checklists save money

August 11, 2010

A study published in Health Affairs reports that use of the World Health Organization’s surgical safety checklist save hospital money because they prevent health care complications. “In a…

Study of nurses with disabilities seeks participants

January 11, 2012

Leslie Neal-Boylan, PhD, RN, professor of nursing at Southern Connecticut State University, is conducting a study of registered nurses with permanent physical and/or sensory disabilities. The study’s purpose…

Study reveals no link between statin use and cognitive decline

December 3, 2019

A new study offers insight into a question that’s plagued healthcare for some time: Does an association exist between statin use and cognitive decline? (more…)

Study reviews literature on patient-centered medical home

November 11, 2012

A systematic review article in November’s Annals of Internal Medicine found the current evidence isn’t sufficient to determine the effects of a patient-centered medical home on clinical and…

Study shows California staffing ratios saves lives

May 11, 2010

A new study finds that California mandatory nurse-patient ratios save lives. Read more at http://www.healthleadersmedia.com/content/NRS-249784/Better-NursePatient-Ratios-Could-Save-Thousands-of-Lives-Annually-Says-Study.

Study shows geographic variation in prescribing patterns

November 11, 2010

A New England Journal of Medicine study of Medicare patients found that prescribing patterns varied by hospital-referral region. For example, 44% of patients in Alexandria, LA received high-risk…

Study: Older adults with hearing loss have more hospitalizations, poorer health

June 11, 2013

According to a study published by JAMA, older adults with hearing loss are more likely than peers with normal hearing to require hospitalization and suffer from periods of…

Study: 8 million lives saved during years since Surgeon General Report on smoking

January 11, 2014

In the 50 years since the first Surgeon General Report on smoking (in 1964) 8 million premature deaths have been avoided, according to a study in JAMA. Read…

Study: Antihypertensives decrease risk of Alzheimer disease

October 11, 2013

Diuretics, angiotensin-1 receptor blockers, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors seemed to reduce the risk of Alzheimer disease (AD), according to a study, published in Neurology, of adults at least…

Study: Appropriate nurse staffing lowers hospital readmission rates

October 11, 2013

In a study published by Health Affairs, hospitals with higher nurse staffing had 25% lower odds of being penalized for readmissions compared to similar hospitals with lower staffing.…

Study: Atrial fib hospitalizations, costs soar in U.S.

November 11, 2013

U.S. hospitalizations and costs of care for atrial fibrillation nearly doubled from 1998 to 2010, according to research presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2013. Read…

Study: Benefits of animal therapy for children unknown

April 11, 2014

Researchers who reviewed studies looking at the impact of “animal interventions” in healthcare settings for children find that the evidence base for these interventions is lacking, according to…

Study: Benefits of male circumcision far exceed risks

April 11, 2014

A study in Mayo Clinic Proceedings reports that the health benefits of male circumcision exceed the risks by more than 100 to 1. Overall male circumcision rates have…

Study: Bloodspot test for fibromyalgia

August 11, 2013

“A bloodspot-based diagnostic test for fibromyalgia syndrome and related disorders,” published in Analyst, reports that in the pilot study, the developed test distinguished fibromyalgia syndrome from rheumatoid arthritis…

Study: Brain and cognitive reserves protect against cognitive decline in patients with MS

May 11, 2014

A study of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), published in Neurology, has found that brain reserve and cognitive reserve help protect against cognitive decline over 4.5 years. Read…

Study: Chocolate’s flavanol could help prevent obesity

April 11, 2014

Oligomeric procyanidins (PCs), a type of flavanol in chocolate, could help reduce obesity, according to a study in Journal of Agricultural & Food Chemistry. Adding PCs to the…

Study: Cocoa improves cognitive function in older adults

August 11, 2013

One month of drinking two cups of hot chocolate a day improved neurovascular coupling and cognitive function, according to a double-blind clinical trial of 60 older people published…

Study: Cooling temperature for therapeutic hypothermia

November 11, 2013

In unconscious patients who survived an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, cooling to 33 degrees C was no more beneficial than 36 degrees C, according to a study in The…

Study: Cost analysis of ACL reconstruction surgery

October 11, 2013

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is less costly and more effective than rehabilitation, according to a cost-utility analysis published in the Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery. Long-term…

Study: Daily aspirin use lowers cancer mortality

August 11, 2012

Recent daily aspirin use is associated with lower cancer mortality but the size of the effect may be smaller than what was observed in previous studies, according to…

Study: Decreased sepsis mortality

November 11, 2013

A study published by Critical Care Medicine reports that in-hospital mortality rates for sepsis decreased from 47% between 1991 and 1995 to 29% between 2006 and 2009, a…

Study: Decriminalization of marijuana increases pediatric ED admissions

February 11, 2014

A study in the Annals of Emergency Medicine found dramatic increases in children requiring medical intervention in states that decriminalized marijuana, although the overall number of unintentional marijuana…

Study: Dementia increases risk of incontinence

September 11, 2013

A UK study in PLOS Medicine found that people with dementia have about three times the rate of urinary incontinence and more than four times the rate of…

Study: Despite increased resources, US lags in health outcomes

November 11, 2013

A study in JAMA reports that despite increased resources for health care, the US lags behind other peer nations in many areas, including life expectancy at birth. Read…

Study: Disinfecting caps reduce CLABSI rates

January 11, 2013

Using a disinfection cap (with isopropyl alcohol) on central line catheters significantly reduced central-line associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rates, according to a study in the American Journal of…

Study: Distracted driving more lethal

December 11, 2013

According to a recent study, from 2005 to 2010, the national number of pedestrians struck and killed by distracted drivers increased from 344 to 500, an almost 50%…

Study: Donor feces more effective than vancomycin in treatment of recurrent C. difficile

January 11, 2013

A study in The New England Journal of Medicine found that infusing a solution of donor feces through a nasoduodenal tube was “significantly more effective” for the treatment…

Study: Even minor increases in physical activity benefits bone health in premenopausal women

August 11, 2012

A study to be published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that physical activity, even minor increases, in premenopausal women is effective in reducing sclerostin,…

Study: Exercise may reduce food craving

September 11, 2012

A study from Brigham Young University found that 45 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercise in the morning reduces a person’s motivation for food. The study also found that participants…

Study: Family caregivers provide complex, chronic care

September 11, 2012

“Home Alone: Family Caregivers Providing Complex Chronic Care, ” from AARP and United Hospital Fund, found that almost half (46%) of family caregivers perform medical/surgical tasks for care…

Study: Faster hospital MI care has not reduced mortality

September 11, 2013

According to a study in the New England Journal of Medicine, mortality rate for myocardial infarction (MI) didn’t significantly change between 2005 and 2009 despite reduction in hospital…

Study: Fatigue common in CHD

March 11, 2014

A study in Nursing Research found that 40% of patients with stable coronary heart disease (CHD) reported fatigue more than 3 days a week lasting more than one…

Study: Fecal microbiota transplant effective in immunocompromised patients

July 28, 2014

Fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) for the treatment of Clostridium difficile infection in immunocompromised patients is safe and effective, according to a study in the American Journal of Gastroenterology.…

Study: Fewer work hours for medical residents could have unintended consequences

March 11, 2013

A study in JAMA Internal Medicine comparing schedules of first-year residents found that fewer work hours increased the number of patient handoffs (affecting continuity of care), resulted in…

Study: Flu shots reduce risk of MI in middle-aged people with narrowed arteries

August 11, 2013

A study in Heart has found another benefit of influenza vaccination: It may reduce the risk of myocardial infarction in middle-aged (50 to 64 years) people with narrowed…

Study: Flu vaccine prevented millions of illnesses in past 6 years

June 11, 2013

According to “Influenza Illness and Hospitalizations Averted by Influenza Vaccination in the United States, 2005–2011,” published in PLOSOne, vaccination prevented a minimum of 1.1 million influenza illnesses in…

Study: Former prison inmates at risk for hospitalization

July 11, 2013

A study in JAMA Internal Medicine reports that former prison inmates have a higher risk for hospitalization than the general population. About 1 in 70 former inmates are…

Study: Gestational diabetes may increase risk for atherosclerosis later in midlife

March 11, 2014

Pregnant women who develop gestational diabetes may be at risk for early atherosclerosis during midlife before the onset of diabetes and metabolic diseases, according to a study in…

Study: Ginkgo biloba doesn’t improve memory, executive function, or attention in healthy people

October 11, 2012

Ginkgo biloba doesn’t improve memory, executive function, or attention in healthy individuals, according to “Is Ginkgo biloba a cognitive enhancer in healthy individuals? A meta-analysis,” published by Human…

Study: Good nurse work environment lowers readmissions

December 11, 2012

Hospitals with a good versus poor nurse work environment had lower 30-day readmission rates for patients with heart failure, pneumonia, or myocardial infarction, according to a study in…

Study: Grandmothers raising grandchildren struggle with depression

August 11, 2013

Grandmothers who care for their grandchildren fulltime need help for depression and family strains, according to researchers from the Case Western Reserve University’s Frances Payne Bolton School of…

Study: Handshake can indicate speed of aging

May 11, 2014

Handgrip strength corresponds to other markers of aging such as people’s future mortality, disability, cognitive decline and ability to recover from hospital, according to a study in PLOS…

Study: Happy new marriage predicts weight gain

April 11, 2013

Newlyweds who are happy in their marriages tend to gain weight, which can affect their health, according to a study of 169 couples in Health Psychology. Although they…

Study: Head trauma associated with Alzheimer disease changes

January 11, 2014

A study published in Neurology has found that among patients with mild cognitive impairment, self-reported head trauma with at least momentary loss of consciousness or memory was associated…

Study: Health care organizations reduce SSIs by nearly half with Joint Commission project

November 11, 2012

A 2.5-year project under the direction of the Joint Commission Center for Transforming Healthcare in collaboration with the American College of Surgeons reduced surgical site infections (SSIs) in…

Study: Healthcare spending expected to grow 6.2% in 2014

October 11, 2013

According to projections published by Health Affairs, healthcare spending is expected to grow by 6.1% in 2014, and by 2022, healthcare spending financed by the federal, state, and…

Study: High glucose in patients with diabetes increases risk of dehiscence after surgery for chronic wounds

October 11, 2013

A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery reports that preoperative and postoperative hyperglycemia and elevated A1c in patients with diabetes increases the risk of dehiscence after surgical…

Study: High patient satisfaction not linked to surgical quality processes

April 11, 2013

A study of 31 hospitals in JAMA Surgery found that patient satisfaction was not associated with performance of surgical process measures such as antibiotic prophylaxis, appropriate hair removal,…

Study: Higher Hgb or receiving EPO doesn’t improve neuro outcomes in patients with TBI

July 28, 2014

In patients with a traumatic brain injury (TBI), the administration of the hormone erythropoietin (EPO) or maintaining a higher hemoglobin (Hgb) concentration through blood transfusion did not improve…

Study: HPV increases risk of esophageal cancer

July 11, 2013

A meta-analysis published by PLOSOne found that human papillomavirus (HPV) triples the risk for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Read more

Study: ICU transfer timing affects mortality

September 11, 2013

A study in the American Journal of Critical Care found that transferring patients out of the ICU before or later an optimal time window increased mortality. Read more.

Study: Immigrants contribute more to Medicare than they take out

May 11, 2013

According to a study in Health Affairs, immigrants in the U.S. disproportionately subsidize the Medicare Trust Fund, probably as a result of the high proportion of working-age taxpayers…

Study: Incidence of mental disorders in mid-life, older adulthood may be underestimated

January 11, 2014

A study published in JAMA Psychiatry has found that common methods of assessing mental or physical disorders may consistently underestimate the prevalence of mental disorders among middle-aged and…

Study: Insomnia may increase mortality

December 11, 2013

A study in Circulation reports that some insomnia symptoms (difficulty initiating asleep and nonrestorative sleep) are associated with a modestly higher risk of mortality. Read more.

Study: Kidney transplant patients prone to early readmission

October 11, 2012

According to a study in the American Journal of Transplantation, 31% of kidney transplant patients are readmitted to the hospital within 30 days of discharge. Factors increasing the…

Study: Light activity can reduce disability in patients with knee arthritis

May 11, 2014

Light physical activity, such as pushing a shopping cart or vacuum, can help people with or at risk of knee arthritis avoid developing disabilities as they age, according…

Study: Longer military deployments increase divorce risk

September 11, 2013

The risk of divorce increases directly in relation to the length of time enlisted service members have been deployed to combats zones, according to a new study from…

Study: Lower blood glucose may be good for brain function

October 11, 2013

Even for people who don’t have diabetes, those who have higher glucose levels are more likely to have memory problems, according to a study published by Neurology. The…

Study: Medicaid expansion may reduce mortality

July 11, 2012

Expansion of Medicaid coverage may reduce mortality among adults, according to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Read more.

Study: Melanoma increases among middle-aged adults

February 11, 2014

A study in Mayo Clinic Proceedings reports that the incidence of cutaneous melanoma among middle-aged adults (40 to 60 years) has increased nearly eightfold between 1970 and 2009,…

Study: Men more likely than women to return to hospital within 30 days of discharge

April 11, 2012

A study in BMJ Open reports that men had a higher rate of hospital utilization, defined as ED visits or readmissions within 30 days of discharge, than women.…

Study: Mindfulness meditation may help patients with chronic inflammation

January 11, 2013

A study in Brain, Behavior, and Immunity found that an 8-week mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) intervention reduced the inflammatory response, suggesting that MBSR may provide therapeutic benefits to…

Study: More diagnostic tests in ED may not improve outcomes for CAP

August 11, 2013

According to study published by Pediatrics, emergency departments (EDs) that used more diagnostic tests for community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) had higher hospitalization rates, but ED revisit rates weren’t significantly…

Study: More focus on maternal mental health needed

May 11, 2014

Maternal depression is more common at 4 years following childbirth than at any other time in the first 12 months after childbirth, according to a study in BJOG:…

Study: MRI may help diagnose bipolar disorder

June 11, 2013

According to a study in Psychological Medicine, MRIs may help diagnose people with bipolar disorder. The researchers correctly differentiated bipolar patients from healthy individuals with 73% accuracy based…

Study: Nearly 70% of Americans on prescription drugs

June 11, 2013

Nearly 70% of Americans are on at least one prescription drug, and more than half take two, according to a study published by Mayo Clinic Proceedings. The most…

Study: Nearly 80% of deaths in first three decades of life traced to unintentional injury or violence

July 28, 2014

According to a report published in Lancet, nearly 80% of US deaths in first three decades of life are due to unintentional injury or violence. Every year, nearly…

Study: Nearly one-fourth of first-year college women start hookah smoking

July 11, 2012

A study of first-year female college students found that 23% started hookah tobacco smoking during the year after their entry into college. Read More.

Study: New delirium severity measure

April 11, 2014

A study in the Annals of Internal Medicine reports on an effective new delirium severity measure (CAM-S) based on the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM), Read more and read…

Study: Night-shift ICU intensivists don’t improve patient outcomes

May 11, 2013

According to a study The New England Journal of Medicine, nighttime ICU intensivists did not improve patient outcomes. The study, “A randomized trial of nighttime physician staffing in…

Study: No same-day play for athletes with concussion symptoms

December 11, 2013

Any athlete with concussion symptoms should not be allowed to return to play on the same day, according to the latest consensus statement on sports-related concussion summarized in…

Study: Nonconcussion head impacts may affect cognition

December 11, 2013

A study in Neurology reports that repeated blows to the head during a season of contact sports may cause changes in the brain’s white matter and affect cognitive…

Study: NP-staffed clinic improves care, lowers cost for women with benign breast conditions

January 11, 2013

The Virginia Mason Breast Clinic, staffed by nurse practitioners (NPs), has substantially improved care timeliness for women with symptomatic benign breast conditions, according to an article in Health…

Study: Nurse workload and education affect patient mortality

February 11, 2014

A study in The Lancet found that patients are more likely to die after common surgical procedures when they are cared for in hospitals with heavier nurse workloads…

Study: Obesity rate continue to climb worldwide

May 11, 2014

Worldwide, there has been a significant increase in rates of obesity and overweight in both adults (28% increase) and children (up by 47%) in the past 33 years,…

Study: Online prostate cancer information may be hard for patients to understand

October 11, 2012

Although experts recommend that patient-education materials be written at the fourth-through-sixth grade level, a study published online by the Journal of Urology found that only 4.8% of websites…

Study: Patients commonly misuse medications

April 11, 2012

A study of 75,997 urine specimen results found that 63% of patients did not have results consistent with a physician’s order. Of those with inconsistent results, 60% tested…

Study: Pay for performance doesn’t affect 30-day mortality

March 11, 2012

A study in The New England Journal of Medicine found that the hospital-based, pay-for-performance program Medicare Premier Hospital Quality Incentive Demonstration failed to reduce 30-day mortality. Read More.

Study: Playing football and effects on brain

May 11, 2014

College football players with and without a history of concussions have less volume in the hippocampal region of the brain that relates to memory and emotion, according to…

Study: Positive self-esteem protects older adults from health problems

March 11, 2014

According to a study in Psychoneuroendocrinology, a positive self-esteem can buffer adults older than 60 years against health threats. Researchers found that if an individual’s self-esteem decreased, cortisol…

Study: Premature menopause may affect later-life cognition

May 11, 2014

Premature menopause is associated with long-term negative effects on cognitive function, suggests a study in BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Compared to women who experienced…

Study: Radiation therapy skin reactions may be preventable

February 11, 2014

Severe skin reactions during radiation therapy could be prevented by applying a thin transparent silicone dressing to the skin from the first day of treatment, according to a…

Study: Reduced LOS reduces readmission, mortality

December 11, 2012

A study of 129 Veterans Administration hospitals published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that hospitals reduced length of stay over 14 years, yet readmission and mortality…

Study: Regular colonoscopy screening could prevent 40% of colorectal cancers

September 11, 2013

Regular colonoscopy screening could prevent 40% of colorectal cancers, according to a study in the New England Medical Journal that followed 88,902 participants from two studies over 22…

Study: Report cards for hospital pressure ulcers may not be accurate

October 11, 2013

According to a study in the Annals of Internal Medicine, the data Medicare uses for public reporting hospital rates of pressure ulcers isn’t an accurate source for comparing…

Study: Reporting medical errors may help reduce them in multi-site clinical practices

October 11, 2012

Documenting adverse events improves perceptions of safety and may decrease incidents in multi-site clinical practices, according to a study from researchers at the University of Pennsylvania. Read more.

Study: Roles and responsibilities of patient navigators defined

December 11, 2013

A study in the Journal of Oncology Navigation and Survivorship defines the roles and responsibilities of patient navigators. Read more.

Study: Sedentary behavior associated with disability

February 11, 2014

A study in the Journal of Physical Activity & Health reports that sedentary behavior in adults aged 60 years and older is a risk factor for disabilities in…

Study: Serious mental illness increases cancer risk

July 11, 2012

The total cancer incidence in adults with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder was 2.6 times higher than the general population, according to a study of 3,317 Medicaid adult beneficiaries…

Study: Shortages of cancer drugs associated with medication errors and higher

March 11, 2013

A study in the American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy reports a survey of oncology pharmacists in the United States found that shortages of oncology drugs can cause treatment…

Study: Showering helps ease discomfort of women in labor

September 11, 2013

A study in Clinical Nursing Research reports that a 30-minute “therapeutic shower” taken when a woman is in active labor, can significantly reduce tension and anxiety and increase…

Study: Smaller physician practices have lower preventable readmissions

August 14, 2014

A study published by Health Affairs has found that smaller physician practices have a lower rate of preventable hospital admissions compared to larger practices. Practices with 1-2 physicians…

Study: Smartphone app valid cognitive dysfunction screening

September 11, 2013

The Stroop smartphone application (EncephalApp_Stroop) is a short, valid, and reliable tool for screening for minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE), according to a study in Hepatology. Currently, there are…

Study: Smoking increases risk of complications after colorectal surgery

October 11, 2013

A study published in the Annals of Surgery has found that smoking increases the risk of complications after major colorectal surgery; current smokers were at a significantly increased…

Study: SNFs have high readmission rates of Medicare patients

February 11, 2014

A high percentage of Medicare patients who are discharged from skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) will return to the hospital or the ED within 30 days, according a study…

Study: Social media may help with smoking cessation

October 11, 2013

A study published by the Journal of Communication found that those who participated in health-based social networking sites that focus on helping members to quit smoking found it…

Study: Specific benevolence brings happiness

April 11, 2014

Pursuing concrete, specific goals of benevolence, such as making someone smile or increasing recycling, instead of following similar but more abstract goals, such as making someone happy, is…

Study: Supplemental nurses compared to permanent nurses

November 11, 2012

Supplemental nurses and permanent nurses share similar education levels, but supplemental nurses are slightly less experienced, more racially and ethnically diverse, and more likely to be male, according…

Study: Surgical checklist reduces 30-day morbidity

November 11, 2012

Using a surgical safety checklist, including providing comprehensive training on it, significantly decreases 30-day morbidity, according to a study in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons.…

Study: Tamoxifen reduces future risk of breast cancer in women with genetic predisposition who have had a tumor

August 11, 2013

A study, published by the Journal of Clinical Oncology, of about 2,500 women has found that those who have inherited mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes and who…

Study: Thrombolytics significantly reduce mortality in sudden-onset PE

June 11, 2014

According to a study in JAMA, adding thrombolytics to conventional approaches when treating patients with sudden-onset pulmonary embolism is associated with 47% fewer deaths than using standard anticoagulant…

Study: Too much TV viewing can increase mortality

June 11, 2014

Adults who watch TV 3 hours or more a day may double their risk of premature death compared to those who watch less, according to a study in…

Study: Too much vitamin D harmful

June 11, 2012

A study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that both too little and too much vitamin D can increase mortality. Read more.

Study: TV violence may affect brain development in young adult men

June 11, 2014

Young adult men who watch more violence on television show indications of less mature brain development and poorer executive functioning, according to a study in Brain and Cognition.…

Study: U.S. women don’t know most stroke warning signs

March 11, 2014

According to a study in Stroke, many U.S. women don’t know most of the warning signs of stroke. Of the 1,205 women in the telephone survey, 51% identified…

Study: Urinary catheterization high risk for UTI

November 11, 2012

A review article in December 2012’s Journal of Hospital Infection found that highest population-attributable risk percentage for urinary tract infection (UTI) was associated with urinary catheterization, “with the…

Study: Vitamin E may slow decline from Alzheimer disease

January 11, 2014

“Effect of Vitamin E and memantine on functional decline in Alzheimer disease,” a study published in JAMA, reports that 2,000 units of vitamin E, compared to placebo, slowed…

Study: Water pipe just as bad for you as cigarette smoking

August 11, 2012

A study in Respirology has found that the negative effects of water pipe (such as Hookah) smoking on pulmonary function are similar to that seen in those who…

Study: Well-child visits may increase risk for flu-like illness

February 11, 2014

Well-child appointments for annual exams and vaccinations are associated with an increased risk of flu-like illnesses in children and family members within two weeks of the visit, according…

Successful gene therapy for hemophilia

December 15, 2017

A single treatment with gene therapy normalized levels of Factor VIII in patients with hemophilia as long as 1 year after the infusion, according to a study in…

Suggestions to help parents reduce child’s anxiety

October 25, 2019

The Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry released a study in March 2019 that showcases steps parents can take, in addition to standard therapy,…

Suicide underestimated in U.S.

September 17, 2015

Self-inflicted injury is actually the eighth, not the tenth, leading cause of death, above kidney disease, and pneumonia and influenza, according to a report in JAMA Psychiatry. Read…

Summary of updates to guidelines for managing severe TBI in children

February 5, 2020

The American Journal of Critical Care has published an article that highlights the most important updates featured in the third edition of the guidelines for the management of…

$supplemental oxygen acute myocardial infraction$

Supplemental oxygen not always needed in AMI patients

February 1, 2018

Supplement oxygen isn’t needed for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients who have normal oxygen saturation, according to a systematic review and meta-analysis in the International Journal of Nursing…

Surgary drinks can prompt early onset of menstruation

January 29, 2015

Girls who frequently consume sugary drinks tend to start their menstrual periods earlier than girls who do not, according to a study in Human Reproduction. Read more and…

Surgeons between 35 and 50 years old provide safest thyroid surgery care

January 11, 2012

A multicenter study of 28 surgeons performing 3,574 thyroidectomies published in BMJ found that surgeons aged between 35 and 50 years provide the safest care compared with their…

Surgical caps and surgical site infections

May 12, 2017

Switching from surgical skull caps to bouffant caps doesn’t reduce surgical site infections, according to a study in Neurosurgery. Read more

Surgical site infections and nurse staffing

October 30, 2017

The risk of surgical site infections after elective total hip arthroplasty is lower in hospitals where nurses assess staffing as adequate, according to a report in the International…

Survey: Nurses Spend 53% of Shift on Tasks Besides Patient Care

June 11, 2013

Survey: Nurses Spend 53% of Shift on Tasks Besides Patient Care

Switching to pill organizer can put older people at risk for adverse effects

July 7, 2016

Older people who switch to using pill organizers could experience adverse effects and even hospitalization, according to a study in Health Technology Assessment. Read more and read the study…

Take Note – April 2008

April 11, 2008

Pam Cipriano to receive ANA’s Distinguished Member Award American Nurse Today Editor-in-Chief Pamela Cipriano, PhD, RN, FAAN, will receive the Distinguished Member Award from the American Nurses Association…

Take Note – April 2009

April 11, 2009

A monthly round-up of clinical and practice news and alerts.

Take Note – December 2007

December 11, 2007

Previous pneumonia vaccination reduces ICU admissions Among adults hospitalized for pneumonia, those who’ve been vaccinated against the disease are less likely than unvaccinated patients to require admission to…

Take Note – February 2007

February 11, 2007

Low-carb diets don’t affect cardiac risk Although diets low in carbohydrates and high in fats and proteins have been popular for the last few years, some experts have…

Take Note – February 2008

February 11, 2008

Elizabeth Battaglino Cahill, RN, named executive director of National Women’s Health Resource Center The National Women’s Health Resource Center (NWHRC) has appointed Elizabeth Battaglino Cahill as its executive…

Take Note – January 2007

January 11, 2007

Controversy over new Lyme disease guidelines The new guidelines released by the Infectious Diseases Society of America (ISDA) have run into some criticism. In fact, the International Lyme…

Take Note – July 2007

July 11, 2007

On-line video-based course on emergency preparedness The need for better coordination between governmental agencies and hospitals became apparent after 9/11 and again after Hurricane Katrina. To fill this…

Take Note – July/August 2009

July 11, 2009

A weekly round-up of clinical and practice news and alerts.

Take Note – June 2008

June 11, 2008

Failure to rescue is most common safety mistake in hospitals HealthGrades’ fifth annual Patient Safety in American Hospitals Study found that failure to rescue and other patient safety…

Take Note – June 2009

June 11, 2009

A monthly round-up of clinicial and practice new and alerts.

Take Note – March 2007

March 11, 2007

Previous hospital-room occupants may spread MRSA and VRE The risk of acquiring methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) infections increases if the prior hospital-room occupant tested…

Take Note – March 2008

March 11, 2008

Updated guidelines on end-of-life care To improve the quality of palliative end-of-life care, the American College of Physicians has revised its guidelines. According to the new recommendations, clinicians…

Take Note – November 2007

November 11, 2007

Medical illiteracy can kill A 6-year study of 3,260 patients ages 65 and older found that almost 40% of those considered medically illiterate died during the study. Only…

Take Note – October 2007

October 11, 2007

Medicare to stop reimbursing hospitals for eight preventable conditions Medicare will stop paying hospitals for the extra costs of treating eight conditions stemming from preventable errors—falls, pressure ulcers,…

Team training reduces surgical morbidity

December 11, 2011

The Veterans Health Administration Medical Team Training program, designed to improve teamwork between nurses and physicians, significantly decreased surgical morbidity according to a study in Archives of Surgery.…

Teenage binge eating may be result of gene variation

July 30, 2015

A study in Obesity reports that binge eating in adolescents is associated with a gene variation. Read more and read the study abstract.

Telephone CPR improves cardiac arrest outcomes

May 5, 2016

A Telephone Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (TCPR) program increased survival rates and favorable outcomes for patients who experienced an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, according to a study in JAMA Cardiology. Read…

Television show highlights 1950s nurse midwives

February 11, 2013

“Call the Midwife,” a television show on PBS, shows nurse midwives as positive influences in 1950s London. The show is sponsored by the American College of Nurse Midwives.…

Tendon transfer surgery for tetraplegia patients underused

August 25, 2016

Tendon transfer surgery can significantly improve hand and elbow function for people with tetraplegia, but the surgery is greatly underused, according to a study in Hand Clinics. Read…

Test helps identify preeclampsia women at risk for imminent delivery

October 11, 2011

A study has shown that soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase (sFlt-1)/placental growth factor (PlGF) ratio, already used for assessing preeclampsia, helps identify women with the condition who are at…

The Atlantic publishes article on nurse leadership in ACOs

April 11, 2012

“The New Face of Health Care: Why Nurses Are in Such High Demand,” published by The Atlantic, discusses the role of nurse and physician executives in accountable care…

The high cost of medical errors

August 11, 2010

According to “The Economic Measurement of Medical Errors,” medical errors cost the US $19.5 billion in 2008. Read more here.

The Joint Commission issues Sentinel Event Alert on falls

October 1, 2015

The Joint Commission has released “Sentinel Event Alert 55: Preventing falls and fall-related injuries in health care facilities,” which includes tools and resources. Read more.

The Joint Commission issues sentinel event alert on preventing violence in the health care setting

May 11, 2010

On June 3, The Joint Commission issued “Preventing violence in the health care setting,” a sentinel event alert. It includes prevention strategies and suggested actions. Read more at…

The Parkinson’s Foundation launched first-ever Nurse Fellowship program

January 13, 2020

The Parkinson’s Foundation recently announced the launch of its new Parkinson’s Nurse Fellowship program in the U.S. (more…)

Time of death after withdrawal of mechanical ventilation

July 11, 2010

Although time to death after withdrawal of mechanical ventilation varies widely, the majority of patients die within 24 hours according to an article in the August 2010 edition…

TJC releases sentinel event alert on radiation risk of diagnostic imaging

August 11, 2011

On Aug. 24, The Joint Commission (TJC) published a sentinel event alert on the radiation risk of diagnostic images. It includes actions organizations can take to eliminate avoidable…

Tokyo restaurant staffed by servers with dementia a success

January 24, 2020

An innovative restaurant in Tokyo staffed by servers who have dementia reports 99% satisfaction among diners even though mistakes in orders occurred about 37% of times. (more…)

Top apps for nurses in 2019

December 6, 2019

As smart phones become more and more integral in our lives, the American Nurse Today team would like to share some of the top apps for nurses in…

Tracking nursing student errors

May 10, 2018

Safe Student Reports is a free tool for tracking nursing student errors and near misses. (more…)

Trained dogs effective in helping patients manage diabetes

January 16, 2019

More evidence that dogs are our best friends comes from a study in PLOS One. On average, trained dogs alerted their owners to 81% of hypoglycemic episodes in over 4,000 hypo- and…

Treatment consistent with POLST orders in nursing facilities

October 11, 2011

Overall, Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) were consistent with treatment provided to 870 nursing facility residents aged 65 and older, making it a useful tool for ensuring…

Tree nuts may reduce risk of recurrent colon cancer

May 18, 2017

Patients who consume 2 or more ounces of tree nuts (for example, almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans, and cashews) per week lower their risk of colon cancer recurrence, according…

Troponin may help predict cardiac events

August 13, 2015

Patients with elevated levels of troponin are about twice as likely as their counterparts to die from heart attack, stroke or other cardiovascular causes within five years, according…

Twitter can help predict asthma-related ED visits

April 16, 2015

Researchers have created a model to predict approximately how many asthma sufferers would visit the ED at a large hospital in Dallas on a given day, based on…

Two common tests fail to accurately predict preterm birth

March 16, 2017

Transvaginal cervical measurement and fetal fibronectin testing, used separately or together, do not adequately predict preterm birth and should not be used in routine care of nulliparous women,…

Understanding & identifying rare liver disorder

October 14, 2019

In recognition of National Liver Awareness Month, American Nurse Today highlights a condition often overlooked and misunderstood, leading to misdiagnosis or underdiagnosis: Hepatic encephalopathy (HE). (more…)

Updated guidelines for managing occupational HIV exposure released

August 11, 2013

Infection Control and Epidemiology has published “Updated US Public Health Service guidelines for the management of occupational exposures to human immunodeficiency virus and recommendations for postexposure prophylaxis.” Access…

Urinary incontinence in nursing-home residents associated with increased mortality risk

February 9, 2017

Nursing home-residents with urinary incontinence are at higher risk for mortality, according to a study in the Journal of Advanced Nursing. Read more

Urinary tract symptoms in nurses

July 14, 2016

Lower urinary tract symptoms are a “significant issue” among female nurses, according to a systematic review published in the Journal of Advanced Nursing. Read more

US troops in Iraq breathe polluted air

March 11, 2011

Research presented at the 241st National Meeting of the American Chemical Society found that US troops in Iraq breath air that “often is polluted with dust and other…

Use of bone morhphogenetic proteins not associated less reoperation for lumbar stenosis

February 11, 2012

A study in February’s Spine reports that use of bone morhphogenetic proteins (BMP) in spinal fusion surgery for older adults with lumbar stenosis reports that use of BMP…

Use of long-term acute care hospital after critical illness increases

June 11, 2010

The U.S. has an increasing number of long-term acute care hospitals, where patients are transferred after a critical illness. However, a study in the June 9 issue of…

USPSTF recommends hepatitis B screening for high-risk people

May 11, 2014

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has released “Screening for hepatitis B virus infection in nonpregnant adolescents and adults,” which recommends screening in patients at high risk…

UTIs and STIs frequently misdiagnosed in the ED

June 25, 2015

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in women are misdiagnosed in emergency departments nearly half the time, according to a study in the Journal of…

Vaccine Hesitancy vs. Vaccine Refusal: Nursing Home Staffers Say There’s a Difference

February 9, 2021

CONCORD, N.C. — It had been months since Tremellia Hobbs had an excuse to bring out the pompoms. Before the pandemic, they were a crowd favorite at movie…

Vaginal progesterone in women with short cervix may decrease preterm delivery

December 11, 2011

According to a meta-analysis published by the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, using vaginal progesterone in “asymptomatic women with a sonographic short cervix” decreases the risk of…

Vagus nerve stimulation may reduce HF symptoms

November 11, 2013

A global, multicenter randomized clinical trial called INOVATE-HF (INcrease Of VAgal TonE in chronic Heart Failure) is investigating the safety and efficacy of an implantable vagus nerve electrical…

Vapor from e-cigarettes may increase bacterial growth and hamper immune system

January 28, 2016

The vapor from e-cigarettes suppresses immune defenses while increasing bacterial virulence, according to a mouse study in the Journal of Molecular Medicine. Read more and read the study abstract.

Variation in mortality

April 29, 2015

Compared to Whites, Blacks had lower risk adjusted mortality rates for several medical conditions and for abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, according to a study in Ethnicity and Disease.…

Virtual reality used to reduce blood draw pain in children

November 13, 2017

A study in the Journal of Pediatric Psychology reports that virtual reality can be used to significantly reduce patients’ and parents’ perception of acute pain, anxiety, and general…

Visits to ED for dental problems increase

February 11, 2012

According to a Pew Center report ED visits for dental problems increased 16% from 2006 to 2009. Read more.

Vitamin D levels linked to cardiorespiratory fitness

November 1, 2018

Are you getting enough vitamin D? Vitamin D levels in the blood are linked to cardiorespiratory fitness, according to a study in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology.…

Want to slow the aging process? Restrict your calories

December 20, 2017

A study shows that restricting caloric intake slows the aging process, according to an article in a special issue of Journals of Gerontology that provides an overview of…

Weapon use predicts subsequent abuse incidents

February 11, 2014

Women are up to 83% more likely to experience repeat abuse by their male partners if a weapon is used in the initial abuse incident, according to study…

Weight loss by overweight and obese women increases vitamin D

May 11, 2011

Overweight and obese women who lost weight experienced increased levels of Vitamin D according to a study in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Read more.

What are the most common causes of hospital readmissions?

March 20, 2019

A report from AHRQ notes that the highest hospital readmission rate in 2016 was for blood diseases, followed by neoplasms. (more…)

What new nurses like

December 11, 2011

According to a Nursing Research and Practice study of 1,152 newly registered nurses, what they like best about nursing can be summed up in five themes: “providing holistic…

What nurses need to practice effectively

October 29, 2019

A study from Sigma examines what nurses need to practice more effectively in a hospital environment. (more…)

What’s in a name?

April 11, 2014

What’s in a name? Editor’s note: The information below was provided by United States Pharmacopeial Convention (USP). It may be freely reproduced and distributed, for non-commercial use only.…

White paper suggests strategies for improving nurse-physician relationships in the ED

June 11, 2012

“Developing & Strengthening Nurse-Physician Relationships: A CEP American White Paper,” released on June 12, details a program to improve nurse-physician relationships in the ED. The program consists of…

WHO issues new HIV treatment recommendations

October 1, 2015

According to a new guideline from the World Health Organization (WHO), anyone infected with HIV should begin antiretroviral treatment as soon after diagnosis as possible. Read more and…

WHO releases guidelines for antiretroviral drugs in HIV

July 11, 2013

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released “Consolidated Guidelines on the Use of Antiretroviral Drugs for Treating and Preventing HIV Infection.” Access the guidelines.

WHO releases new hepatitis C guidelines

April 11, 2014

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released “Guidelines for the screening, care and treatment of persons with hepatitis C infection.” Access the guidelines.

Women have better outcomes than men after major GI surgery

June 11, 2011

Women who undergo major gastrointestinal (GI) surgery are less likely to die in the hospital than men according to a retrospective analysis of 307,124 patients. Researchers are unsure…

Women report more negative emotional impact from diabetes than men

November 11, 2011

A survey from Rite Aid and WebMD found that compared to men, women report that diabetes had a greater negative impact on their emotional outlook and adherence to…

Wrist fractures may predict more serious fractures in postmenopausal women

November 12, 2015

Wrist fractures among women younger than 65 may predict more serious fractures in other parts of their bodies later in life, according to a study in the Journal…

Yet another reason to exercise

August 9, 2018

Need more motivation to complete your daily exercise routine? A study in the Journal of the American Heart Association reports that adults in their early 60s who spend…

Yoga may ease side effects of prostate cancer treatment

April 7, 2017

For men with prostate cancer, structured yoga class twice a week during radiation treatment reduces fatigue and urinary and sexual dysfunction, according to a study in International Journal…

You really do need your sleep

August 16, 2018

Nurses frequently say they don’t get enough sleep, and now a study in Nature Communications reports that sleep loss leads to social isolation, which in turn can result…

Your patients may need stress education

October 29, 2019

A recent survey conducted by Everyday Health may reveal insights for nurses and other healthcare providers when caring for patients. (more…)

Zika Virus resources from CDC

February 25, 2016

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has established a Zika Virus resource section. Access the section.

‘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” as a construct related…

“Metal-on-metal” hip implant concerns on the rise

The New York Times published an article on concerns related to “metal-on-metal” hip implants. Read the article at http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/04/health/04metalhip.html?partner=rss&emc=rss.

JAMA: Use of anesthesia services for GI endoscopies increased substantially

A study in JAMA found that use of anesthesia services for gastrointestinal endoscopies and colonoscopies “increased substantially” between 2003 and 2009. Anesthesia use was…

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 for increasing effectiveness, including…

NEJM publishes Olympic Medicine article

Before you watch the Olympics, read the New England Journal of Medicine article “Olympic Medicine.”

NEJM study assess BMD retesting

A study in the Jan. 19 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) found that in older, postmenopausal women with normal bone…

U.S. News names registered nurse one of best jobs for 2013

U.S. News 100 Best Jobs of 2013 puts registered nurse in the number two spot, right after dentist. The report lists the median salary…

150 minutes of brisk exercise can reduce risk of diabetes

Walking briskly or cycling for the recommended 150 minutes a week can reduce a person’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes by up to…

200 years of surgery reviewed

Author Atul Gawande, MD, MPH, has written a fascinating article on the history of surgery for The New England Journal of Medicine. Read more.…

2012 recommended immunization schedules released

Access the 2012 recommended immunization schedules on the website for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention here.

2019 AMN Healthcare Survey of Registered Nurses

The AMN 2019 Survey of Registered Nurses reveals growing pressures on the millions of nurses who provide hands-on care and other services to Americans…

2020 is officially the Year of the Nurse and Midwife

As many of our readers may know, the World Health Organization (WHO) named 2020 the official Year of the Nurse and the Midwife! (more…)

4-drug combination regimen effective for TB

Compared to separate drug administration, a 4-drug combination regimen had comparable effectiveness in patients with tuberculosis according to a study in JAMA. Read more…

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 at Massachusetts General Hospital,…

A new technology may better help control type 1 diabetes

A recent study from The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) reveals a new system that has “improved glycemic outcomes in patients with type…

A potential connection between lung cancer and pre- and probiotics

A new study from JAMA Oncology examines a potential connection between dietary intake of fiber and probiotics through yogurt and the risk of lung…

ABCDEF bundle improves ICU care

Full use of the ABCDEF bundle in the ICU improves several outcomes, including survival, mechanical ventilation use, delirium, and ICU readmissions, according to a…

ACA improves care

The first two enrollment periods under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) were associated with significantly improved trends in self-reported coverage, access to primary care…

According to a study in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes,

Patients with positive attitudes are more likely to exercise and live longer. Read more and read the study abstract.

Acupressure improves QOL in nurses with chronic back pain

A study published in Applied Nursing Science details how acupressure may help nurses who experience chronic back pain. (more…)

ADA releases position statement on diabetic neuropathy

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) has released a position statement on diabetic neuropathy that outlines recommendations for preventing and managing the condition. Read more

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 department visits by 50%.…

Addressing glycemic control in patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes

Providing feedback on performance, problem solving, and action planning are helpful behavioral change techniques for individuals with poor glycemic control, according to a meta-analysis…

ADHD drugs may reduce risky sexual behavior in teens

A study in Labour Economics reports that drugs used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children may reduce the likelihood of risky sexual behavior…

Adjusting sports drills to prevent concussions

A study in the Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics reports that interventions such as reducing the speed of players engaged in contact, correcting tackling technique,…

Advice for Pregnant, Nursing Women Considering a COVID Vaccine

Pregnant and nursing women should answer five key questions with their healthcare professional when deciding whether to get a Covid-19 vaccine, according to a…

Aerobic exercise eases nicotine withdrawal symptoms, but effects are short-term

A study has found that although moderate aerobic exercise eases nicotine withdrawal symptoms, but the effects aren’t sustained from one exercise session to the…

AHA releases new CPR guidelines

The American Heart Association has published new guidelines for CPR and emergency cardiovascular care. Read a quick summary, download a PDF with the highlights,…

AHA releases new guidelines for reversing non–vitamin K oral anticoagulants

The American Heart Association (AHA) has released a scientific statement on reversing the effects of non–vitamin K oral anticoagulants. Read more

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 take care of themselves…

AHRQ releases Spanish medication tracking tool

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality has released a newly revised Spanish language medication tracking tool, “Su medicamento: Infórmese. Evite riesgos.” (“Your Medicine:…

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 Report.” The report includes…

Alarming childhood obesity trend

If current trends in child obesity continue, more than 57% of today’s children in the U.S. will have obesity at age 35, according to…

Alcohol-related mortality rates on the rise

A new study published in Alcoholism Clinical & Experimental Research reveals that the amount of alcohol-related deaths in the United States has increased between…

American Heart Association: E-cigarettes are not safe alternative

The American Heart Association (AHA) recently held its 2019 Scientific Sessions in Philadelphia PA. The sessions covered many topics, but one of the most…

AMERICAN NURSE TODAY WINS FIVE ASHPE AWARDS

Click here to read the press release.

AMERICAN NURSE TODAY WINS TWO ASHPE AWARDS

American Nurse Today, the official journal of the American Nurses Association (ANA), today announced that its June 2009 cover, Autism Today, has been named…

ANA announces ‘Year of Ethics’

The American Nurses Association (ANA) has designated 2015 as the “Year of Ethics.” The year is highlighted by release of a revised Code of…

ANA releases new position statement on workplace bullying

On Aug. 31, the American Nurses Association released a new position statement “Incivility, Bullying, and Workplace Violence”. Read more and access the statement.

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 have fewer patient safety…

Anastrozole and fulvestrant combination effective in metastatic breast cancer

The combination of anastrozole and fulvestrant was more effective than anastrozole alone or sequential anastrozole and fulvestrant for the treatment of hormone receptor-positive metastatic…

ANCC Announces Craig Luzinski, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE, as Director of the Magnet Recognition Program®

The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) is thrilled to name Craig J. Luzinski, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE as the new director of its internationally…

Antibacterial soap may be no more effective than plain soap

Antibacterial soap containing triclosan (0.3%) is no more effective than plain soap at reducing bacterial contamination, according to a study in the Journal of…

Anxiety more likely in older adults with COPD

Generalized anxiety disorder for adults aged 50 and older is three times more likely in those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to…

Are Accountable Care Organizations doomed to fail?

The value of Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) is a hot topic in health care today. The authors of a Wall Street Journal editorial argue…

Arrested Utah nurse reaches settlement, plans donations

Alex Wubbels plans to donate some of the $500,000 she receives from Salt Lake City and the University of Utah (both entities agreed to…

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 article.

Associate degree nurses shifting to long-term care

According to a study in Nursing Economics, many nurses with associate degrees who would have otherwise been employed in hospitals seem to have shifted…

At least 10% of MI patient may have undiagnosed diabetes

At least 10 percent of people who have a myocardial infarction (MI) may have undiagnosed diabetes, according to research presented at the American Heart…

Bariatric surgeries compared

According to a study in JAMA Surgery, laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass results in much greater weight loss and fewer reoperations compared to laparoscopic adjustable…

Bariatric surgery does not reduce mortality in men

A study in JAMA reports that bariatric surgery did not decrease mortality in patients with a mean age of 49.5 years who were followed…

Bariatric surgery safe option for pediatric population

Bariatric surgery doesn’t stunt the growth of obese children and adolescents when applied within a clinical pathway and is a safe option for those…

Bariatric surgical center accreditation improves survival

A decade of analysis shows that bariatric surgical center accreditation is linked to lower mortality and fewer postoperative complications, according to a study in…

Behavioral emergency response team improves safety

A behavioral emergency response team helps de-escalate behavioral emergencies, thereby reducing assaults and use of restraints, according to a study in Worldviews on Evidence-based…

Benefits of exercise training in heart failure

Exercise training reduces the risk for subsequent all-cause mortality or all-cause hospitalization in women by 26%, compared with 10% in men, according to a…

Best hospitals share secrets for success

Healthgrades has released “America’s 100 Best Hospitals 2014” list. Based on interviews with representatives from the various hospitals, there are three themes that are…

Biological clocks in digestive organs may be reason for metabolism disruption with shift work

Biological clocks (peripheral oscillators) in the liver, gut, and pancreas may be the reason for disruption of metabolism in people who work night shifts,…

Birthplace may affect CHD incidence

Foreign-born adults living in the United States have a lower prevalence coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke than those who were born in the…

Blood pressure management guideline released

JAMA has published “2014 Evidence-Based Guideline for the Management of High Blood Pressure in Adults: Report From the Panel Members Appointed to the Eighth…

Blood test can detect concussion one week after injury

Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), a biomarker that can indicate concussion, can be detected in the blood up to a week after head injury,…

Blood type may affect cognition in later years

People with blood type AB may be more likely to develop cognitive impairment in later years than people with other blood types, according to…

Blueberry concentrate improves brain function in healthy older adults

Healthy people aged 65-77 who drink concentrated blueberry juice concentrate every day show improvements in brain perfusion and activation in brain areas associated with…

Body image and alcohol use in teen girls

Adolescent girls with body image misperceptions are more likely to have had at least one drink in their life, and more likely to have…

Boston Globe story highlights nurses who cared for suspected terrorist

“For bombing suspect’s nurses, angst gave way to duty,” published in the Boston Globe, highlights nurses’ emotional response to caring for the Boston bombing…

BSN, MSN graduates more likely to land jobs

According to new data from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, graduates of entry-level baccalaureate (BSN) and master’s nursing programs are much more…

Bullying toolkit available

Access “Civility Tool-kit: Resources to Empower Nurse Leaders to Identify, Intervene, and Prevent Workplace Bullying,” supported by the RWJF Executive Nurse Fellows Program, funded…

Business success requires four types of leaders

“Leadership Is More Than the C-Suite,” published Sept. 26 by Gallup Business Journal, says Gallup research has found that successful businesses need four kinds…

C-suite executives believe ACA will improve health care

A survey of 74 C-suite executives published in Health Affairs finds they are optimistic about the effects of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The…

C. difficile infections at record high

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that C. difficile infections are at an all-time high and are linked to 14,000 deaths…

Call for abstracts for home care conference

The second annual International Home Care Nurses Organization Conference, Sept. 23-26 in Singapore, has released a call for abstracts. Deadline is April 1. Read…

Call for abstracts for new home care conference

International Home Care Nurses Organization’s inaugural conference, “The Future of Health Care Is at Home,” will be June 25-28, 2013 in Cleveland. Learn more…

Can Doctors Predict and Prevent Stroke and Heart Attack?

Predicting – and defeating – a silent killer A recent study from Edith Cowan University led a team of international researchers to discover that…

Cancer survival remains higher in married compared to unmarried

A study, published by BMC Public Health, that examined data from 1970-2007 has found that the excess mortality of never-married compared to married people…

Cataract surgery may reduce dizziness in older patients

The improved vision that occurs with cataract surgery may reduce dizziness in older patients, according to a study in Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics. Read…

Catching up with the HPV vaccine

It may not be too late for HPV vaccination for girls who missed the recommended window. Catch-up quadrivalent HPV vaccination with three doses is…

CBT for insomnia improves depression in older adults

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for insomnia helps reduce depression in older adults, according to a study in Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing. (more…)

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.” Access the report.

CDC develops new faster test for enterovirus D68

On Oct. 14, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that it has started using a new, faster lab test for detecting…

CDC gives telebriefing on H3N2v

Access the transcript of an Aug. 10 telebriefing from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which provided an update on H3N2v infection.…

CDC provides enterovirus D68 information

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has dedicated a section of its website to the nationwide outbreak of enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) associated…

CDC provides resources related to MERS-CoV

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released infection prevention and control recommendations related to Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). As…

CDC releases updated guideline for prevention of surgical site infection

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has updated its 1999 guideline for the prevention of surgical site infection. Read more

CDC releases updated guidelines for Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus

On June 7, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released updated guidelines for evaluating severe respiratory illness associated with Middle East Respiratory…

CDC Reports a Rise in cases of STDs

In early October 2019, the CDC released a report showcasing a rise in the rates of syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia in the United States.…

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% and 1 in 71…

Celiac disease linked to increased risk for CAD

People with celiac disease may have a nearly twofold increased risk of coronary artery disease compared with the general population, according to research to…

Center for nursing history gets new name

The University of Virginia School of Nursing has renamed its nursing history center to ” Eleanor Crowder Bjoring Center for Nursing Historical Inquiry. ”…

Certain subtypes of delirium may signal end of life for terminally ill patients with cancer

Hypoactive and mixed delirium in patients with cancer who are nearing the end of life indicate “imminent death,” according to a study in in…

Childhood obesity continues to rise

The number of obese children and adolescents (aged 5 to 19 years) worldwide has risen tenfold in the past four decades, according to a…

Children of obese mothers are at greater risk for early cardiovascular death

Children of obese and overweight women have a higher risk of early cardiovascular death as adults, according to a study in BMJ. Access “Maternal…

Children with acute otitis media should receive antibiotics not observation

Recent studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine support treating children with acute otitis media with amoxicillin–clavulanate at the time of diagnosis…

Children’s hospitals may be getting penalized for factors outside of their control

According to a study in JAMA Pediatrics, readmission financial penalties for children’s hospitals may be partly related to patient social determinants of health that…

Cholecystectomy during third term of pregnancy should be avoided

For women in the third trimester of pregnancy, cholecystectomy should be delayed (whenever possible) until the postpartum period to avoid adverse maternal outcomes, according…

Clinical tool for detecting post–intensive care syndrome

The self-report version of the Healthy Aging Brain Care Monitor is a valid clinical tool for assessing symptoms of post–intensive care syndrome, according to…

Clinical tool helps identify who needs stress tests

A clinical tool can be used to reduce unnecessary stress tests in patients with stable chest pain. Read more and read the study abstract.…

Clinical trial participants’ views on data sharing

Most participants in clinical trials believe the benefits of broadly sharing person-level data outweigh the risks, according to a study in The New England…

CMS awards funding for APRN training

On July 30, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced the participants for a new initiative that provides funds to support clinical…

CMS broadens ‘medical staff’ concept to include APRNs

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has broadened the concept of “medical staff” so that hospitals can include other practitioners such as…

CMS plans to end meaningful use program

The Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) plans to replace its unpopular meaningful use program in 2016. Read more and read the speech by…

CNS-led initiative improves tube feeding administration

A clinical nurse specialist-led initiative that included an evidence-based algorithm reduced tube feeding interruptions and volume deficits among patients in a surgical-trauma ICU. (more…)

Cocaine use may be associated with glaucoma

A pilot study found that cocaine use was associated with open-angle glaucoma. Read more.

Coffee drinking and arrhythmias

Coffee drinkers are less likely to be hospitalized for cardiac arrhythmias, according to a report presented at the American Heart Association’s 50th Annual Conference…

Cognitive behaviorial therapy

A study of 701 adults with subacute or chronic back pain found that cognitive behavioral therapy reduced pain and disability compared to those who…

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 with obesity rates 15%…

Combining alcohol with cannabis increases THC levels

The simultaneous use of alcohol and cannabis produces significantly higher blood concentrations of cannabis’s main psychoactive constituent, THC, and THC’s active metabolite, than cannabis…

Combining exercise and meditation eases depression

he combination of mediation and aerobic exercise (done twice a week for 2 months) significantly reduced the symptoms of depression in a group of…

Computer algorithm can predict septic shock

Targeted real-time early warning score (TREWScore), a computer-based algorithm, correctly predicts septic shock in 85% of cases, with a lead-time of more than 24…

Consumer-directed health plans have little effect on reducing unnecessary medical services

Consumer-directed health plans have little or no effect on spending on low-value services, according to a study in the American Journal of Managed Care. (more…)

Costs of gun violence identified

From 2006 to 2014, the cost of initial hospitalizations for firearm-related injuries averaged $734.6 million per year, according to a study in the American…

CRNAs provide cost-effective anesthesia delivery

According to a study by The Lewin Group, a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) acting independently to deliver anesthesia is more cost effective than…

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 like 12-hour shifts, they…

Depression increases risk of cognitive decline

A study in Psychological Medicine reports that depression leads to greater cognitive decline in older adults. (more…)

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% of respondents have adopted…

Detecting more abdominal aortic aneurysms

Updating national screening policies could help detect more abdominal aortic aneurysms in older men and prevent deaths, according to a study in the Journal…

Dietary fiber may protect against obesity and metabolic syndrome

Consumption of dietary fiber may prevent obesity and metabolic syndrome, according to a study in Cell Host & Microbe. (more…)

Digital device overload may increase risk of obesity

Another reason to watch how much time you spend on your electronic devices: Mindless switching between digital devices is associated with increased susceptibility to…

Do alternative therapies help with menopause?

A recent study examined the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to help women as they transition into menopause. These CAM therapies included…

Do you know the schedule for vaccinating children?

Learn how to promote pediatric immunizations in your practice. Part of ANA’s Bringing Immunity to Every Community campaign. this handout stresses the importance of…

Does simulation training improve safety outcomes?

A new study showcases the potential connection between simulation training for acute care nurses and its role in improving patient safety outcomes. (more…)

Dosing strategy may reduce toxicity of TB treatment

Giving patients with tuberculosis (TB) lower doses of the bedaquiline together with verapamil might lead to the same antibacterial effects as higher toxic doses…

Drinking water before eating facilitates weight loss

Drinking 500 ml of water 30 min before main meals facilitates moderate weight loss, according to a study in Obesity. Read more.

Drones may reduce response time for cardiac arrest

In simulated out-of-hospital arrests, drones carrying an automated external defibrillator arrived sooner than EMS, reducing response time by about 16 minutes, reports a study…

Drug therapy effective in hepatitis C

A once daily drug combination of sofosbuvir-velpatasvir for 12 weeks resulted in sustained eradication of several genotypes of the hepatitis C virus in 99%…

Drugs for diabetic neuropathy similarly effective despite cost differences

Drugs for managing diabetic neuropathy are similarly effective, yet the costs of these drugs vary greatly, according to a study in the Annals of…

E-cigarettes may be harmful for teens

Adolescent e-cigarette users have increased rates of chronic bronchitis symptoms, according to a study in American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine. Read…

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 Patients Undergoing Cross-Sectional Imaging,”…

Early rehab for ACL tears may lessen need for surgery

In young adults, early rehabilitation and optional delayed reconstruction for acute anterior cruciate ligament tears (ACL) reduced the need for surgery compared to rehab…

Early-onset menopause may predict CVD

Women who experience hot flashes and night sweats earlier in life are more likely to die from cardiovascular disease (CVD) compared to women with…

Early, intensive therapy for type 2 diabetes can slow progression

A study of 58 patients with type 2 diabetes found that early and intensive therapy helped preserve beta cell function for 3.5 years. In…

Eating fish may prolong life

Consumption of fish (but not fried fish) and long-chain omega-3 fatty acids is associated with lower risks of early death, according to a study…

Ebola resources

Access ebola-related resources from Nebraska Medicine and the American Nurses Association.

Ebola resources from ANA

Access ebola information from the American Nurses Association (ANA) http://www.nursingworld.org/MainMenuCategories/WorkplaceSafety/Healthy-Work-Environment/DPR/Ebola-Information.html.

Ebola update

On Dec. 3, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated information on the Ebola outbreak. Read more and access the list of hospital designated…

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 misconnections, and cross-contamination from…

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, cross-contamination from flexible endoscopes,…

Effect of errors or adverse effects on NICU healthcare providers

A study in the Journal of Advanced Nursing reports that neonatal ICU healthcare providers who were involved in an error or adverse event incident…

Effects of low to moderate alcohol intake during pregnancy examined

Preschool children of mothers who consumed low to moderate quantities of alcohol during pregnancy had no difference in test performance compared to mothers who…

Effects of patient migration in bed

Patient migration to the foot of the bed flattens the torso, according to a study in Nursing Research, indicating that clinicians need to manage…

Effects of second-hand smoke on children

Childhood secondhand smoke exposure and adult secondhand smoke exposure increase the risk of death from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in adulthood, according to a…

Efficiency: ASCs vs. hospital outpatient departments

A recent study from The American Journal of Surgery analyzes the efficiency of operating rooms in hospital-owned ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) and hospital outpatient…

EHR hospitals associated with lower adverse events

Cardiovascular, pneumonia, and surgery patients in a hospital with a full electronic health record (EHR) are less likely to experience in-hospital adverse events, according…

Elevated upper body position after childbirth improve respiratory safety

An elevated upper body position might improve respiratory safety in women early after childbirth without impairing sleep quality, according to a study in CHEST.…

Emerging markets make gains in medical technology innovation

Emerging markets such as China, India, and Brazil are “gaining ground” in medical technology innovation and may surpass developed countries in innovative healthcare delivery…

ENA study encourages more suicide screening in the ED

Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States, and many people who die by suicide visit a healthcare provider in…

Errors in inhaler technique common among hospitalized children with asthma

According to a study in the Journal of Hospital Medicine, nearly half of hospitalized children with asthma miss a critical step in inhaler technique.…

Ethical Issues in Healthcare

High ethical standards are essential in healthcare. Four fundamental principles lay the foundation for healthcare ethics. Autonomy honors patients’ right to make their own decisions.…

Exercise beneficial for patients with MCI

Physical exercise, particularly aerobic exercise, improves global cognition in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), according to a systematic review in the International Journal…

Exercise for patients with type 2 diabetes most effective after dinner

Performing resistance exercise to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in obese patients with type 2 diabetes is most effective when done after dinner,…

Exercise guidelines for patients with type 1 diabetes

Access “Exercise management in type 1 diabetes: a consensus statement” in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology. Read more

Exercise is key part of stroke recovery

Exercise should be prescribed for stroke survivors because it can significantly reduce disability and the risk of recurrent stroke, according to “Physical Activity and…

False-positive mammograms may indicate increased risk for breast cancer later in life

Women with a history of a false-positive mammogram result may be at increased risk of developing breast cancer for up to 10 years after…

FDA announces July 22-23 meeting to discuss extended-release and long-acting opioid analgesics

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced a joint meeting of the Anesthetic and Life Support Drugs Advisory Committee and the Drug Safety and…

FDA approves new type of drug for insomnia

On August 13, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Belsomra (suvorexant) tablets for treating insomnia. Belsomra is the first approved orexin receptor…

FDA issues warning letter for medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently issued a warning letter to Alkermes, Inc. due to misbranding on the drug Vivitrol, which is…

FDA mandates removal of trans fats in processed foods

On June 16, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that food manufacturers will have 3 years to remove partially hydrogenated oils, the…

FDA, EPA releases fish consumption advice for specific groups

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have released guidance for fish consumption; the guidelines are targeted to women…

Few studies consider sex and gender when analyzing and reporting research results

The authors of a Viewpoint article in JAMA say that only a minority of medical studies take sex and gender into account when analyzing…

Final National Sample Survey results released

Access the findings from the 2008 National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses here. The report notes there were an estimated 3,063,162 licensed registered nurses…

Football helmet add-ons may not significantly reduce concussion risk

Football helmet add-ons such as outer soft-shell layers, spray treatments, helmet pads and fiber sheets may not significantly help lower the risk of concussions…

Football Players and Concussions – Do They Realize the Risk?

Athletes underestimate risk of injury, concussions A recent survey-style study of 296 male college-aged football players revealed that some 43 percent of these athletes…

Form of cinnamon used in U.S. contains higher concentrations of coumarin

A study in Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry has found that cassia cinnamon, commonly used in products sold the U.S., contains higher concentrations…

Four new guidelines from AHA, ACC

The American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology have released four guidelines related to preventing cardiovascular disease: cholesterol, obesity, lifestyle, assessment of…

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 against legislators and policymakers…

Future of Nursing Campaign launches new website

As it begins its third year, the Future of Nursing: Campaign for Action is launching a new website . A joint initiative of AARP…

Genetic testing recommended for colorectal cancer patients

A new guideline from the U.S. Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer recommends genetic testing of tumors for all newly diagnosed colorectal cancer patients.…

Genetic/Genomic Competency Center

The Genetic/Genomic Competency Center (G2C2, http://www.g-2-c-2.org/) is a new free online resource created to help educators teach the next generation of nurses and physician…

Giving a neuromuscular blocking agent early in ARDS may improve survival

According to a study in the New England Journal of Medicine, administering a neuromuscular blocking agent for 48 hours at the onset of severe…

Global resurgence of measles

It’s not just the United States that’s experiencing a resurgence of measles. Experts writing in the New England Journal of Medicine note that the…

Guide for using MAT for opioid use disorder

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Academy has developed a new resource for healthcare practitioners to aid in treating opioid use disorder (OUD).…

Guidelines for abdominal aortic aneurysm screening released

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has released recommendations on screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm. One of the recommendations is one-time screening by ultrasonography…

Guidelines for nutrition in critically ill patients

The February issue of the Journal of Parenteral & Enteral Nutrition includes “Guidelines for the Provision and Assessment of Nutrition Support Therapy in the…

Guidelines for patients with thyroid conditions

The American Thyroid Association has released guidelines for managing adult patients with thyroid nodules and differentiated thyroid cancer. Access the guidelines.

Hands: Keep them clean

It’s National Handwashing Awareness Week, so what better time to remind everyone about the importance of hand hygiene to help prevent the spread of…

Harvard issues new Healthy Eating Plate

Nutrition experts at the Harvard School of Public Health have issued the Health Eating Plate, a visual guide for eating healthy. Read more and…

Healthcare professionals and medicinal cannabis

According to a systematic review in PLOSOne, healthcare professionals generally support the use of medicinal cannabis, but they lack knowledge and are concerned about…

Healthcare professionals’ implementation of EBP lagging

Although healthcare professionals’ self‐reported evidence-based practice (EBP) knowledge, skills, attitudes, and beliefs are at a moderate to high level, this doesn’t translate into EBP…

Healthcare workforce needs

A special issue of Health Services Research discusses ways to prepare workers to improve the delivery, quality, and cost of U.S. health care. Read…

Healthy eating improves children’s self-esteem

A healthy diet improves the self-esteem of children, according to a study in BMC Public Health. (more…)

Healthy eating may reduce risk for hearing loss

A new study from the American Journal of Epidemiology reveals that healthy diets are “associated with a lower risk of hearing loss.” (more…)

Hearing impairment may accelerate cognitive decline with age

Hearing impairment is associated with accelerated cognitive decline with age, though the impact of mild hearing loss may be lessened by higher education, according…

Hearing loss associated with depression

Hearing loss is associated with clinically significant symptoms of depression in Hispanic adults 50 years or older, according to a study in JAMA Otolaryngology…

HHS panel recommends mandatory flu vaccination for health care workers

On Feb. 9, AHANews.com reported the National Vaccine Advisory Committee has recommended that hospitals and other health care facilities not able to achieve a…

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 Breach Notification Rules under…

High cholesterol in Hispanics under-recognized and undertreated

Nearly half of Hispanics don’t know they have high cholesterol and of those who are aware, less than a third are being treated, according…

High consumption of trans fat diminishes memory

A study presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2014 found that high trans fat consumption is linked to worse memory among working-age…

High erythropoietin levels in people 85 or older associated with higher mortality risk

A study in the Canadian Medical Association Journal reports that among people aged 85 or older, elevated erythropoietin levels were associated with an increased…

High omega 3 intake after diagnosis may lower risk of bowel cancer death

A high dietary intake of omega 3 fatty acids, derived from oily fish, may help to lower the risk of death from bowel cancer…

High-volume texting teens more likely to engage in risky behavior

Teens who text and send more than 120 messages per school day are 40% more likely to engage in risky behavior according to a…

Higher intake of dietary trans fats worsens memory

Higher consumption of dietary trans fatty acids, commonly used in processed foods, has been linked to worsened memory function in men 45 years old…

Higher percentage of BSN nurses associated with lower rates of postsurgery mortality

The March issue of Health Affairs includes “An increase in the number of nurses with baccalaureate degrees is linked to lower rates of postsurgery…

Higher readmission rates in for-profit hospitals

A study in PLOS One reports that readmission rates for six major conditions, including acute MI and total hip/total knee arthroplasty, is higher in…

HIV patients at greater risk for heart, kidney disease

Patients with HIV who are at high risk for a heart attack or stroke are also at substantially greater risk for chronic kidney disease…

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 in Cancer, found that…

How the opioid epidemic affects women

Opioid use disorder (OUD) has become such a prominent topic in today’s society that it’s hard to go one day without hearing news about…

Hypertension in women commonly misidentified as part of menopause

Up to 50 percent of women develop high blood pressure before age 60 While complications of pregnancy and early menopause increase the future risk…

Hypertension increases risk of mitral regurgitation

Long-term hypertension increases the risk of mitral regurgitation in patients without cardiovascular disease, according to a study in PLOS Medicine. (more…)

Improved patient handoffs reduces medical errors

Improved patient handoffs using the I-PASS bundle reduces medical errors by 30%, according to a study in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM).…

In some situations, axillary node removal doesn’t improve breast cancer survival

A study presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology June meeting found that removing additional axillary lymph nodes to look for breast cancer…

Incident of ear infections in first year of life has decreased

A study in Pediatrics reports that the rates of ear infections during an infant’s first year have declined; the investigators suggest that higher rates…

Increased cadmium may increase risk of endometrial cancer

Increased obesity in children with autism, developmental delays

Children with developmental delays, including autism spectrum disorder, are up to 50% more likely to be overweight or obese compared with the general population,…

Increased risk of congenital anomalies in offspring of nurses working in certain areas

A study of 22,611 nurses found an increased risk of congenital anomalies in the “singleton offspring” of nurses employed in operating rooms, pediatric nursing…

Independent NP practice in retail clinics saves money

According to a study in Health Affairs, the cost per episode treated by nurse practitioners (NPs) in retail clinics was lower in states where…

Indoor smoking bans reduce children’s asthma ED visits

Emergency departments (EDs) in communities with indoor smoking bans report a 17% decrease in the number of children needing care for asthma attack, according…

Initial findings from National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses find more RNs and high workforce participation

The 2008 National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses found the number of RNs increased 5.3% since 2004 to more than 3 million. The workforce…

Injury patterns in competitive college athletes identified

A study in the Journal of Athletic Training found that male competitive college athletes had a higher acute injury rate than their female counterparts,…

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 held Sept. 23-26, 2014…

International Home Care Nurses Organization announces annual conference

The International Home Care Nurses Organization has announced that its third annual conference will be held July 8-10, 2015, in Chicago. Abstracts for presentations…

International Home Care Nurses Organization conference

The International Home Care Nurses Organization will hold its third annual conference, “Home Care: Providing Collaborative & Holistic Care,” July 8-10 in Chicago. Read…

International Home Care Nurses Organization holds first conference

The International Home Care Nurses Organization will be holding its inaugural conference, The Future of Health Care Is at Home, on June 25-28 at…

Interprofessional teamwork improves RN job satisfaction

A study in Western Journal of Nursing Research reports that interprofessional teamwork improves registered nurses’ job satisfaction. (more…)

Intervention reduces ‘mean girl’ bullying

IOM calls for reduced sodium intake in U.S.

IOM releases report on accelerating new drug and diagnostics development

On Aug. 22, the Institute of Medicine released “Accelerating the development of new drugs and diagnostics: Maximizing the impact of the Cures Acceleration Network—Workshop…

IOM report recommends new nutrition rating system

An Institute of Medicine report (IOM) recommends that federal agencies develop a new front-of-package nutrition rating system that graphically tells calorie counts by service…

IOM says end-of-life care needs not being met

The U.S. healthcare system is not properly designed to meet the needs of patients nearing the end of life and those of their families,…

Is intentional rounding effective?

A recent study from the National Institute for Health Research focuses on intentional rounding in hospitals to understand its efficacy for patients and healthcare…

JAMA focuses on conflict of interest

The May 2 JAMA explores the issue of conflict of interest through several open-access articles. Access the articles.

JAMA publishes special issue on end-of-life care

The January 19 issue of JAMA contains multiple articles related to end-of-life care, including physician-assisted suicide, cost of end-of-life care, and the role of…

Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic Research

In early September 2019, Johns Hopkins opened its new Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, which explores the use of psychedelics on brain function,…

Joint Commission awards first certifications for palliative care

The Joint Commission has awarded its new Advanced Certification for Palliative Care to five hospitals: Regions Hospital, St. Paul, Minn.; Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester,…

Joint Commission issues new requirements for health and wellness programs

The Joint Commission has issued new requirements for hospitals accredited for behavioral health care, which includes health and wellness promotion programs. These institutions must…

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 of opioid-induced respirator depression…

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 survey should take about…

Joint Commission releases Sentinel Event Alert

On Aug. 20, The Joint Commission released “Sentinel Event Alert 53: Managing risk during transition to new ISO tubing connector standards.” New ISO standards…

Joint Commission releases Sentinel Event Alert in response to COVID-19 pandemic

Healthcare workers struggling, expressing fears Earlier this week, The Joint Commission released a Sentinel Event Alert addressing the fears of healthcare workers and outlining…

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 report, which includes recommendations…

Lack of exercise responsible for more deaths than obesity

A study of more than 334,000 European men and women found that twice as many deaths may be attributable to lack of physical activity…

Lack of sleep increases calorie intake

Lancet study suggests 9/11 firefighters may have higher risk of cancer

The Lancet has published a study that reports a “modest excess of cancer cases” in 9/11 New York City firefighters. The researchers caution that…

Last surviving nurse taken prisoner in WW II dies

Mildred Dalton Manning, the last survivor of a group of nurses taken prisoner in the Philippines in World War II died in March at…

Later onset of menstruation, menopause may be associated with longer life

Women who start menstruation and experience menopause later in life may have increased chances of living to be 90, according to a study in…

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, accidents, injuries, and infections…

Legalized recreational marijuana may increase risk for cannabis use disorder

A recent study from JAMA Psychiatry examines this question: Has legalization of recreational marijuana in the United States affected the rates of cannabis use…

Less transfused blood doesn’t affect surgical mortality

Patients receiving liberal blood transfusions and those receiving smaller amounts have similar rates of postsurgical mortality, according to a study in The Lancet. The…

Lessons for more efficient research in healthcare settings

My Own Health Report, a collaboration between seven research institutions with the goal of streamlining how healthcare providers communicate with patients about preventative health…

Lessons to be learned through aphasia

In recognition of World Stroke Day, I want to share some lessons I learned during a previous lifetime when I worked alongside people with…

Lifetime risk of stroke

A study in The New England Journal of Medicine reports that the global lifetime risk of stroke from the age of 25 years onward…

Lifting restrictions on concealed carry guns increases violent crime

Lifting restrictions on concealed carry guns increases violent crime, and laws restricting gun ownership for people convicted of domestic violence reduces killings of female…

Linguistics in healthcare: Why it matters

MK Hedrick is a former colleague of mine who works in healthcare market research. When we worked together, we were tasked with trying to…

Link between missing tooth and CVD

Losing two or more teeth in middle age is associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk, according to a study reported at the American Heart…

Link between mitral valve prolapse and sudden cardiac death

A systematic review and meta-analysis in Heart reports that mitral valve prolapse is associated with sudden cardiac death. (more…)

Liver injury from herbals/dietary supplements rise

Liver injury caused by herbals and dietary supplements (HDS) increased from 7% to 20% in a U.S. study group over a ten-year period, according…

Local warming before tourniquet application increases vein size

Applying local warmth before a tourniquet significantly increases venodilation without adverse effects, according to a study in the International Journal of Nursing Studies. Read…

Long-term depression increases stroke risk

Persistent depression may double the risk of stroke in adults over 50, and stroke risk remains higher even after symptoms of depression go away,…

Longevity genes interconnected

An international group of scientists performed a comprehensive analysis and found that most genes that increase lifespan when overexpressed or mutated, as well as…

Low-risk pregnancies may result in fewer interventions with midwives

A new study from Obstetrics & Gynecology indicates that women with low-risk pregnancies, who delivered in a hospital setting with a midwife, may need…

Lower ankle brachial index associated with mild cognitive impairment

A study in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease reports that mild cognitive impairment occurs significantly more often in individuals diagnosed with a lower ankle…

Lowering BP prevents cardiovascular events in people with kidney disease

Lowering blood pressure (BP) is a highly effective and affordable way to prevent cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke among people with chronic…

Lung cancer mortality for women projected to increase more than 40% worldwide by 2030

The global age-standardized lung cancer mortality rate among women is projected to increase by 43% from 2015 to 2030, according to an analysis of…

Making diabetes education more effective

Is individual or group education most effective for patients with diabetes? (more…)

Mammographic screening benefits may be overestimated

The mortality risk reduction benefits of mammographic screening have been overestimated, according to a study in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine.…

Many oncology patients fail to receive treatment for depressio

Three papers published in The Lancet Psychiatry, The Lancet, and The Lancet Oncology show that 73% of cancer patients who have major depression are…

March of Dimes releases new nursing education modules

The March of Dimes has released three new nursing education modules: Diabetes in Pregnancy, 4th Edition; Genetic Issues for Perinatal Nurses, 3rd Edition; and…

Marijuana use more than doubles from 2001 to 2013

The estimated prevalence of adults who used marijuana in the past year more than doubled in the U.S. between 2001 and 2013 to 9.5%,…

Marriage may promote happiness

Marriage doesn’t make people happier than when they were single, but it does protect against normal decline in happiness during adulthood according to a…

Mary Naylor named to Medicare Payment Advisory Commission

Mary D. Naylor, PhD, RN, FAAN, of the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, has been appointed to the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission. MedPAC…

Maternal age and preterm birth

Women aged 40 years or older may have a higher risk for preterm birth, according to a study in PLoS. (more…)

Mayo Clinic launches Center for Social Media

The new Mayo Clinic Center for Social Media is intended to accelerate adoption of social media for healthcare purposes. Read more here.

Medicaid expansion and ED use

The expansion of Medicaid insurance coverage in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act did not increase hospital emergency department (ED) visits, but did…

Medical marijuana lowers prescription drug use

Legalized medical marijuana saved Medicare $165.2 million in 2013 by lowering prescription drug use, according to a study in Health Affairs. Read more and access…

Medical Mistrust Linked to Race, Discrimination

Researchers uncover links between levels of mistrust and ethnic backgrounds A new study finds that levels of medical mistrust of clinicians and healthcare systems…

Medication adherence report gives U.S. C+

“2013 Medication Adherence in America: A National Report 2013” gives people in the U.S. with chronic medical conditions a C+ grade. The report, from…

Medications & daily exercise: Potential adverse reactions

One of the most important care suggestions nurses and other healthcare providers may have for their patients is to exercise more. A recent article…

Mediterranean diet may reduce frailty risk

A study in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society reports that eating a Mediterranean diet reduces the risk for frailty on adults 60…

Melanoma risk factors after kidney transplant

Melanoma risk factors for patients who have undergone kidney transplant include being older, white, and male, according to a study in JAMA Dermatology. Read more

Meniscal transplants can relive pain, delay surgery

In patients younger than 50 years who have a torn or severely damaged meniscus, a meniscal transplant can reduce pain, improve knee function, and…

MERS resources from the CDC

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has published information about Middle East Respiratory System (MERS) for healthcare professionals. The information includes interim…

Metformin may have role in pre-eclampsia

A study in American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology reports that metformin may have the potential to prevent and treat pre-eclampsia. Read more and read…

Mice study finds genetic link between lung cancer and emphysema

In a study of mice, scientists found that a gene associated with emphysema can also cause the development of lung cancer not related to…

Michelle Obama, Mary Wakefield discuss Affordable Care Act

First Lady Michelle Obama and Mary Wakefield, PhD, RN, Administrator for the Health Resources and Services Administration held a conference call on Sept. 28…

Mind/body intervention boosts IVF patient pregnancy rates

Women who underwent a mind/body intervention had a high pregnancy rate after in vitro fertilization (IVF) according to a study published by Fertility and…

Mindfulness mediation may affect memory

Mindfulness meditation may make memories less accurate, according to a study in Psychological Science. Read more and read the study abstract.

Mindfulness reduces depression

Eight weeks of mindfulness training helped alleviate depression and reduce stress in African-American women with lower socioeconomic status, according to a study in Complementary…

Moderate alcohol consumption associated with adverse brain effects

Alcohol consumption, even at moderate levels, is associated with adverse brain effects, according to a study in BMJ. Read more

Moderate alcohol use associated with left atrial enlargement

A study in the Journal of the American Heart Association reports that moderate alcohol intake (an average of just over one drink per day)…

Moderate coffee intake may be beneficial

Drinking coffee daily is associated with a lower risk of deaths from Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological diseases in nonsmokers, according to…

More Baby Boomers facing old age alone

Statistics from the Bowling Green State University’s National Center for Family and Marriage Research show that one-third of adults aged 45-63 are unmarried —a…

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 Health Affairs, states that…

More than half of liver transplant recipients develop metabolic syndrome

Mortality risk for obesity similar for blacks, whites

A study in PLOS One has found that the increased risk of premature death associated with a higher body mass index (BMI) is similar…

MRI may help predict response to antidepressants

A functional MRI brain scan may help predict which patients will respond positively to antidepressant therapy, according to a study in Brain. Read more and read…

Multitasking with media devices may change brain structure

According to a study in PLOS One, people who frequently use several media devices at the same time have lower grey-matter density in one…

Nearly half of medical care in U.S. is delivered in EDs

A study in International Journal of Health Services reports that 47.7% of medical care in the United States is delivered in emergency departments (EDs).…

Nearly half of new nurses work weekly overtime

New nurses are predominantly scheduled for 12 hour shifts and nearly half work weekly overtime, according to a study in JAN. (more…)

Nearly half of nurses plan career change

A 2010 survey of registered nurses from AMN healthcare found that 44% of the 1,399 nurses who completed the survey plan to make a…

Nearly half of patients with hepatitis C on Medicaid denied drug coverage

Nearly 50% of Medicaid patients infected with chronic hepatitis C whose doctors had prescribed newer, life-saving antiviral drugs were denied coverage to the therapies…

Need to promote Choosing Wisely campaign identified

Only half of ICU providers are familiar with the Critical Care Societies Collaborative Choosing Wisely recommendations, according to a report in Critical Care Medicine.…

Negative effects of ARDS linger

Five years after having acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), survivors still had not recovered to normal physical function, and many other physical and psychological…

Negative job situation puts nurses at risk for depression

The Canadian Journal of Nursing Research reports that nurses who experience job strain, role overload, and a lack of respect have an increased risk…

NEJM interviews HHS Secretary on healthcare reform

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 with increased mortality. Read…

NEJM: Perspective on foodborne diseases

The Feb. 23 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) includes a perspective on foodborne disease. Read it at http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp1010907.

NEJM: Public views on Medicare and the budget deficit

The July 13 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine includes an insightful review of public polling on Medicare and how public opinion…

New certification for oncology rehabilitation

Oncology Rehab Partners has launched STAR (Suvivorship Training and Rehab) Clinician Certification, a training and certification program for clinicians in oncology rehabilitation. Access a…

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 with limited English-language skills…

New exam for identifying concussion

A study in the American Journal of Sports Medicine reports that a new test, Vestibular/Ocular Motor Screening (VOMS), was 90% accurate in identifying patients…

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 Clinical Trials.” Read here.

New film spotlights nurses

“NURSES: If Florence Could See Us Now” is a new documentary that showcases the challenging and diverse world of nursing. The film highlights the…

New findings about dogs and allergies

According to a study in Scientific Reports, growing up with dogs is linked to a lower risk of asthma, especially if the dogs are…

New findings from the American Cancer Society on reduced cancer mortality rates

Based on new findings from a 2020 American Cancer Society report, mortality rates from cancer have declined by 29% between 1991 to 2017 in…

New guidelines for care of the perioperative geriatric patient

The American College of Surgeons has released “Optimal Perioperative Care of the Geriatric Patient” Read more.

New guidelines for exercise during cancer treatment

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recently released new guidelines for exercise prescriptions while patients are undergoing cancer treatment. (more…)

New guidelines for managing care of breast cancer survivors

The American Cancer Society and the American Society of Clinical Oncology have released a new Breast Cancer Survivorship Care Guideline to help breast cancer…

New guidelines for nutritional support of critically ill pediatric patients

The American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition and the Society of Critical Care Medicine have released guidelines for nutritional support in pediatric critically…

New guidelines for the management of school-based asthma

The Community Preventative Services Task Force (CPSTF) recently released new recommendations around the management of school-based asthma. These management strategies aim to reduce the…

New guidelines for treating cancer of the esophagus

The November 2014 issue of The Annals of Thoracic Surgery includes practice guidelines on the use of multimodality treatment for cancer of the esophagus…

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 guidelines at http://www.who.int/malaria/en/.

New guidelines on healthcare personnel attire

The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America has issued guidance for “Healthcare Personnel Attire in Non-Operating-Room Settings,” published in the Journal of Infection Control…

New HHS funding program to help veterans with medical skills become nurses

On April 29, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) announce a program designed to help military veterans with health care experience…

New HPV vaccine offers greater protection against cervical cancer

A study in The New England Journal of Medicine Scientists reports that a new HPV (human papilloma virus) vaccine protects against nine types of…

New international consensus statement on sport concussion released

The 2017 Concussion in Sport Group (CISG) consensus statement in British Journal of Sports Medicine emphasizes “recognize and remove.” Access the statement

New measures in understanding patients’ treatment burden

A recent study from Mayo Clinic reveals new insights for healthcare providers in understanding patients’ acceptable threshold in withstanding treatment burden. (more…)

New policies for evaluating living kidney donors approved by OPTN/UNOS

The OPTN/UNOS Board of Directors has approved policies aimed at creating greater consistency in the medical and psychosocial evaluation and informed consent processes for…

New recommendations for Choosing Wisely® Campaign

The American Academy of Nursing has added five new Choosing Wisely® recommendations related to often routine treatments that may not always be necessary or…

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 become more “activist” in…

New report calls for action to address clinician burnout

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine have released a new report highlighting the need to reduce clinician burnout. (more…)

New report calls for improvement in diagnosing

“Improving Diagnosis in Health Care,” a new report from the Institute of Medicine states “most people will experience at least one diagnostic error in…

New report on Gulf War and health

A new report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommends the creation of a health monitoring and research program to help…

New report on health information exchange released

“Secrets of HIE Success Revealed: Lessons from the Leaders,” a report released by the National eHealth Collaborative, features 12 case studies of mature health…

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 events during their hospital…

New research in the prevention of venous thromboembolism

A recent study examines the use of intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) to prevent venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients who are at high-risk for the…

New research uncovers six different forms of prediabetes

Implications for the prevention of type 2 diabetes The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported that approximately 88 million adults in the…

New resource for pain management in the elderly

Visit a new one-stop resource for managing pain in the elderly at www.geriatricpain.org. Sections of the site include pain assessment, pain management, education, quality…

New sepsis bundle released

According to an article in Intensive Care Medicine, the Surviving Sepsis Campaign has created the “hour-1 bundle” for managing sepsis to streamline care and…

New sleep recommendations

A panel convened by the National Sleep Foundation has issued recommendations for sleep based on age. The recommendation for young adults and adults is…

New study on physician disruptive behavior released

The American College of Physician Executives and QuantiaMD have released a survey and white paper, “Disruptive Physician Behavior.” More than 70% physicians surveyed reported…

New suicide prevention guidelines

The Suicide Prevention Resource Center has published, “Comprehensive Emergency Department Guide Provides U.S. Health Care Professionals with Vital Tools in Caring for Adult Patients…

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 Chronic Care,” a survey…

New TB test safe, effective

A new skin test for tuberculosis (TB), C-Tb, is safe, easy to administer, and accurate, according to results from two Phase III clinical trials…

New tool for detecting concussion

Researchers have developed a new tool for detecting concussion, according to a study in the European Journal of Neuroscience, although more research is needed before…

New tool for predicting asthma in children

An article in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology reports on the Pediatric Asthma Risk Score, a new tool that clinician can use to predict…

NHSC opens applications for student loan repayment program

The National Health Service Corps (NHSC), a federal program that helps nurse practitioners and certified nurse midwives deal with their student debt, while addressing…

Nicotine-free inhaler helps stop smoking

In a study of 120 smokers, those who saw handling of the cigarette as an important part of smoking and used a nicotine-free inhaler…

Night shift workers may be more at risk for car crashes

A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has found an increased risk of drowsy driving related motor vehicle crashes, as…

Nitroglycerin ointment slightly increases bone mineral density in postmenopausal women

Nitroglycerin ointment applied at bedtime for 2 years slightly increased bone mineral density in postmenopausal women states a study in JAMA. Read more at…

Nonfatal occupational injuries among healthcare workers increase

According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, the incidence rate for nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses requiring days away from…

Nonsurgery intervention effective for carefully selected patients with penetrating abdominal wounds

A study of the use of selective non-operative management (SNOM) for gunshot and stab abdominal wounds found that the practice increased from 2002 to…

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, pressure ulcers, and healthcare-associated…

Number of deaths after surgery declines

The number of inpatient deaths occurring within 30 days of surgery declined from 1996 to 2006 despite an increase in surgical volume according to…

Number of early elective deliveries fall slightly, but more work needed

A survey from the Leapfrog Group released on Jan. 25 found that 39% of hospitals had an elective newborn delivery rate of 5% or…

Number of RN smokers declines

According to a study in JAMA, the number of RNs who smoke significantly declined from 2003 to 2010-2011 (from 11% to 7%, a 36%…

Number of women living with metastatic breast cancer growing

The number of women living with metastatic breast cancer increased by 4% from 1990 to 2000 and by 17% from 2000 to 2010, according…

Nurse manager role in incivility

Supportive nurse mangers reduce the incidence of coworker incivility, according to a study in the Journal of Nursing Management. (more…)

Nurse names new head of Institute for Healthcare Improvement

Maureen Bisognano, who started her career as a staff nurse, was named chief executive officer for Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI), replacing Donald Berwick,…

Nurse perception of nurse-driven protocol to remove urinary catheters

A study in Urologic Nursing reports nurses perceive improved job ease and positive patient feedback after implementation of a nurse-driven catheter-removal protocol. Read more.

Nurses discuss the future of nursing in NEJM

On Dec. 15 The New England Journal of Medicine published two perspective articles by nurses. Linda H. Aiken, PhD, RN’s “Nurses for the Future”…

Nurses remain woefully underrepresented in news stories

The classic 1997 Woodhull Study on Nursing and the Media found that nurses were identified as sources in only 4% of quotations or other…

Nurses report low competency in EBP

Most nurses report that they aren’t competent in meeting any of the 24 evidence-based practice competencies (EBP), according to a survey published in Worldviews…

Nurses, physicians differ in perceptions of physician abuse or disrespect

According to results from HealthLeaders Media Industry Survey 2012, 42% of nurse leaders said physician abuse or disrespect of nurses was common, compared to…

Nurses’ job dissatisfaction contributes to costly labor disputes, turnover, and risk to patients

Nurses’ job dissatisfaction contributes to costly labor disputes, turnover, and risk to patients according to a report in February’s Health Affairs. Read more here.

Nursing ethics report released

Access “A blueprint for 21st century nursing ethics: Report of the National Nursing Summit”

Nursing profession ranked most honest and ethical profession for 18 times in a row

The results of the Annual Gallup poll were released on January 6, 2020 which, for the 18th consecutive year, revealed that nurses were ranked…

Obesity may affect quality of care in nursing home

A study in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society indicates that nursing homes that admit more morbidly obese residents are more likely to…

OJIN releases articles on how to create a culture of safety

The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing (OJIN) has published fives article on how to create a culture of safety. Read more.

Older adults feel burden of healthcare system

Nearly four in ten older adults say that managing their health care needs is difficult for them or their families, that medical appointments or…

Older adults often closed out of clinical trials

More than half of clinical trials exclude older adults according to a study in the Journal of General Internal Medicine. Read more here.

Older men slow to take preventive steps for osteoporosis

Older men are far less likely than women to take preventive measures against osteoporosis or accept recommendations for screening, according to a study presented…

Only about half of teenage girls receive HPV vaccine at recommended age

A study from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston found that almost half of the teenage girls they surveyed received the human…

Oral chlorhexidine can help prevent VAP

Chlorhexidine is effective as part of oral care to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), according to a study in Western Journal of Nursing Research. (more…)

OSHA launches new safety website

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) has launched its Worker Safety in Hospitals website, which include many resources to help hospitals to prevent…

OSHA takes new steps to protect nurses

Passive leg-raising may help predict fluid responsiveness

Passive leg-raising helps predict response to fluid administration given to patients in shock, according to a study in Critical Care Nurse. Read more

Patient outcomes similar for ICU patients under ACNP and resident team care

Outcomes are comparable for critically ill patients cared for by acute care nurse practitioners (ACNP) and resident teams, according to a study in CHEST.…

Patient satisfaction now factors into Medicare reimbursement

Starting Oct. 1, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services began withholding hospital’s Medicare reimbursement based on their quality performance; 30% of the decision…

Patient/family/visitor “hot line” prevents medical errors

The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center has a “hot line” that patients, families, or visitors can call if they see something wrong and think…

Pelvic floor muscle exercises effective for urinary incontinence in women

A comparative effectiveness report from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality states that pelvic floor muscle exercises (similar to Kegel exercises) are effective…

Perception of care for the dying worsens

Surveys of loved ones who lost elderly relatives show that the perception of the quality of care for the dying in the United States…

Persistent cognitive changes after concussion

Young adults who experienced repetitive mild traumatic brain injury can experience persistent cognitive changes as well as altered brain activity, according to a study…

Persistent fatigue after breast cancer may speed aging

Researchers have found that persistent fatigue in breast cancer survivors may be caused by disruption in the autonomic system, and could make some patients…

Physician supports APRNs in Atlantic article

John Rowe, a physician who is professor in the department of health policy and management at the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health,…

Placebos without deception effective for IBS

An open-label study of 80 patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) found that those who knew they were receiving a placebo still experienced improvements,…

Pneumonia, sepsis may increase risk of cardiovascular disease

Pneumonia or sepsis in adults associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Sophia Antipolis, 2 August 2017: Pneumonia or sepsis in adults that results…

Point-of-care testing for HCV

Scientists have developed and validated a rapid, reliable, point-of-care assay for hepatitis C virus (HCV), which will be helpful for countries with limited resources.…

Polypectomy lowers colorectal cancer mortality

A study in the New England Journal of Medicine reports that mortality from colorectal cancer was about 50% lower among patients who had adenomatous…

Poor diet increases risk for late-stage age-related macular degeneration

A new study from the British Journal of Ophthalmology has revealed a link between poor diet and the increased risk of age-related macular degeneration…

Poor mental health linked to poor diet quality

A study in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition reports that poor mental health is linked with poor diet quality among California…

Position statement on diabetes self-management education released

“Diabetes self-management education and support in type 2 diabetes: A joint position statement of the American Diabetes Association, the American Association of Diabetes Educators,…

Positive results after bariatric surgery in adolescents

Three years after undergoing bariatric surgery, adolescents experienced major improvements in their weight, metabolic health, and quality of life, according to a study in…

Positive RN staffing reduces stroke mortality

The ratio of RNs on the weekends affects mortality outcomes after stroke, according to a study in PLOS Medicine. Patients admitted to a unit…

Possible blood test for Alzheimer’s disease

Decades before people with Alzheimer’s disease develop memory loss and confusion, their brains become dotted with plaques made of a sticky protein – called…

Potential consideration for physicians regarding cannabis edibles

In early January 2020, the Canadian Medical Association Journal published a commentary from Drs. Jasleen Grewal and Lawrence Loh regarding potential concerns around the…

Potential new treatment for peanut allergies

Aimmune Therapeutics is set to present new data on its AR101 compound, Palforzia, a potential new treatment for peanut allergies, in early November 2019…

Pre-eclampisa associated with increased of dementia later in life

Women with a history of pre-eclampsia have more than three times the risk of vascular dementia later in life, compared with women with no…

Prebariatric surgery weight and outcomes

Obese patients who undergo bariatric surgery are more like to achieve a body mass index (BMI) of less than 30 one year after surgery…

Predicting Clostridium difficile infection

Predicting depressive symptoms in older adults

Age-related declines in abstract reasoning ability predict increasing depressive symptoms in subsequent years, according to a study in Psychological Science. (more…)

Pregnant Women With Covid Pass Antibodies to Babies, Study Finds

Pregnant women who contract Covid-19 pass protective antibodies to their newborns, a finding that could help determine when the women should get Covid vaccines.…

Premature birth may increase risk of heart disease in mothers

Women who give birth prematurely have increased risk of mortality from coronary heart disease, according to a study in the Journal of the American…

Prescribed opioids among pregnant women may have contributed to increase in neonatal abstinence syndrome

The increase in use of prescribed opioids among women during pregnancy has probably contributed to the rise in neonatal abstinence syndrome, according to an…

Probiotics may help allergies

Consuming certain probiotics helps improve quality of life in seasonal allergy sufferers, according to a study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Read…

Probiotics reduces depression in patients with IBS

A study in Gastroenterology reports that probiotics reduces depression in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and increases quality of life. Read more

Program reduces bullying in preschool children

Early Childhood Friendship Project, an eight-week program, reduced bullying behaviors in preschool children, according to a study in School Psychology Review. Read more

Progress on nurses working environment made

A study in Critical Care Nurse reports that the health of critical-care nurses’ work environments has improved since 2013, but staffing remains a major…

Prostate biopsies can increase risk of hospitalization

Men 65 years or older are more likely to be hospitalized within 30 days after a prostate biopsy than men of the same age…

Protocol reduces complications for complex spinal surgery

A team approach reduces rates of major complications for complex spinal reconstructive surgery by two thirds, according to a report in Spine Deformity. The…

Public reporting of quality data has not significantly reduced mortality

According to a study in March’s Health Affairs, public reporting of quality data as part of Hospital Compare, Medicare’s public reporting initiative, has had…

RAC audits continue to increase

A new report from the American Hospital Association says recovery and contractor (RAC) audits continue to increase. Of the 1,233 hospitals that responded to…

Racial bias in health care

On Aug. 11, JAMA published “Racial Bias in Health Care and Health: Challenges and Opportunities.” Read the viewpoint.

Radial approach safer than femoral for coronary angiogram

Patients undergoing coronary angiography have a significantly lower risk of major bleeding and mortality if the procedure is performed by using the radial, instead…

Rand report calls for more action to prevent military suicide

“The War Within: Preventing Suicide in the U.S. Military,” a report released by the Rand Corporation, states U.S. military officials should improve their efforts…

Rate of not-for-profit hospital revenue growth lowest in two decades, says Moody’s

A report from Moody’s says that the rate of not-for-profit hospital revenue growth lowest in two decades. Read more.

RDA for vitamin D may be too low

According to researchers, the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for vitamin D, from the National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine, is underestimated by a…

Regular use of aspirin may reduce pancreatic cancer risk

Regular use of aspirin was associated with a lower risk of pancreatic cancer in people living in Shanghai, China. Read more

Research consent forms still too complex

A study of 124 consent forms used in HIV network trials sponsored by the National Institutes of Health found that the average readability was…

Research insufficient to support connection between sports concussion and CTE

Available research is insufficient to establish causation between sports concussion and traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), according to an article in Neurodegeneration and Sport. Read more.

Researchers study power failures in prosthetics

Researchers have identified reasons for power failures in prosthetics worn by amputees, which could help in future design work. Read more and read the…

Restrictions on CRNA practice do not improve patient safety

A study in Medical Care reports that scope of practice restrictions and physician requirements for certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) have no effect on…

Revision of Iowa Model

The Iowa Model used for implementing evidence-based practice has been revised, according to a report in Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing. Read more

Rise in chronic venous insufficiency procedures

The use of procedures to treat chronic venous insufficiency in Medicare patients increased markedly from 2005 through 2014, according to a study in Journal…

Risk factors for IAD in ICU patients identified

Liquid stool, diabetes, age, smoking, non-use of diapers, fever, and low oxygen saturation are associated with incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) category 2 (skin loss) in…

Risk factors for suicide attempts by Army personnel identified

A study in JAMA Psychiatry reports factors associated with a higher risk of suicide among enlisted soldiers include female sex, entering the Army at…

Risk for second surgery to remove vaginal mesh low

A follow-up of nearly 60,000 women who received a synthetic vaginal mesh sling for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence finds the risk is…

RN workforce ‘bubble’ predicted to burst

Writing in The New England Journal of Medicine, nursing workforce experts state that the recent increase in the RN workforce is “largely a temporary…

RNs stay close to home after graduation

More than half (52.5%) of newly licensed RNs in 15 states work within 40 miles of where they attended high school according to a…

Role of sleep abnormality in schizophrenia

A sleep abnormality likely plays an important role in schizophrenia, according to an article in Biological Psychiatry. Read more and access the study abstract.

Rotating night shifts may increase risk of type 2 diabetes

Female nurses who rotated night shifts (at least three night/month in addition to days and evenings in that month) had a “modestly increased” risk…

RWJ Foundation offers free CE program on reducing hospital readmissions

The Robert Wood Johnson (RWJ) Foundation is offering a free continuing education course for nurses and other healthcare providers on best practices for reducing…

RWJF launches new website

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) has launched http://www.thefutureofnursing.org, a resource that includes the research and data behind the Institute of Medicine (IOM) Future…

Saline shortages overview

On March 21, The New England Journal of Medicine published an overview of the problem of saline shortages. (more…)

Schizophrenia and the Epstein-Barr virus

People with schizophrenia have higher levels of antibodies to some Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) proteins (indicating an aberrant response to EBV infection) compared to those…

Score for predicting duration of ventilator weaning

How long will it take to wean a patient requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation once a tracheostomy is placed? Clinicians may soon be able to…

Screening for colorectal cancer

The U.S. Preventive Services Task has released a recommendation statement on screening for colorectal cancer; the statement recommends that screening should start at age…

Screening for OSA in primary care

The Stop -Bang screening tool can reliably predict the presence of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), according to a study in Applied…

Self-acupressure app reduces menstrual pain

A smartphone app for self-acupressure reduced menstrual pain, according to a study in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology. (more…)

Sentinel event alert on violence against healthcare workers

On April 16, The Joint Commission released “Sentinel Event Alert 59: Physical and verbal violence against health care workers,” which notes that 25% of…

Sexually transmitted diseases treatment guidelines published

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has published “Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines, 2015 in MMWR. ” Access the guidelines.

Share your military nurse stories

Sigma Theta Tau International is planning a book titled You’ll Know You’re a Military Nurse When… You can share you story with others and…

Single sigmoidoscopy screen reduces colorectal cancers

Undergoing a single screening sigmoidoscopy between ages 55 and 64 reduced the incidence of colorectal cancer according to a study of 34,272. Read more.

Six ways to prevent medication diversion in home care

An article in HomeCare outlines six strategies for preventing medication diversion in the home. (more…)

Sleep disruptions may increase risk of suicide

Interviews with 18 participants reveal a link between sleep problems and suicidal thoughts, according to a study in BMJ Open. For example, being awake…

Smoking and mental illness

The July 21 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine has a thoughtful essay, “Smoking and Mental Illness — Breaking the Link” that…

Smoking may increase risks for patients receiving therapy for prostate cancer

Among patients with prostate cancer, those who smoke have increased risks of experiencing side effects from treatment and of developing future cancer recurrences, or…

Smoking soon after waking may increase cancer risk

Smoking the first cigarette soon after waking is associated with a greater risk of head and neck cancer according to a study published by…

Soap and water wins again

Washing your hands with soap and water instead of alcohol-based rubs is more effective for removing Clostridium difficile spores from the hands according to…

Social Security improvements results in longer life spans

A study published in the Journal of Public Health Policy found that Americans over the age of 65 experienced steep declines in the rate…

Some antibiotics used during pregnancy may increase risk of congenital malformations

Competing interests: Anick Bérard is a consultant for plaintiffs in litigations involving antidepressants and birth defects. Flory Tsobo Muanda and Odile Sheehy report no…

Split liver transplants and pediatric patients

A study in Liver Transplantation reports no difference in outcome between patients who received split liver transplants and those who received a whole liver,…

Staggering number of alarms identified

A study in PLOS ONE found more than 2.5 million patient monitoring alarms in one month in one hospital. Many were caused by a…

Standardized glycemic protocol reduces costs

Using a standardized glycemic protocol improves glycemic control and reduces healthcare cost, according to a study in Clinical Nursing Research. Read more.

Standardized patient “hand off” reduces medical errors

Using the patient “hand off” tool I-PASS reduced medical errors by 40% according to a study at Boston Children’s Hospital. I-PASS stands for: I…

Startling number of older adults take prescription drugs that increase risk of falling

A surprising recent study found that 94 percent of adults 65 years or older take at least one prescription drug that increases the risk…

Statins lower prostate cancer recurrence

Men with high-risk prostate cancer who take statin drugs while receiving radiation therapy are less likely to have their cancer return than patients who…

Strategies for managing “weekend effect” of surgeries

According to a study in Annals of Surgery, the following resources can help address the fact that patients who undergo urgent surgeries on weekends…

Stroke patients get faster treatment at endovascular centers

Stroke patients who go directly to an endovascular center could receive treatment 99 minutes earlier, according to a new study presented at the Society…

Stroller- or carrier-related injuries

From 1990 through 2010, almost 361,000 children aged 5 years and younger were treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments for stroller- or carrier-related injuries,…

Study fails to show benefit of adding vitamin C to treatment of septic shock

A study recently published in the Journal of the American Medial Association aimed to examine if a treatment combination of vitamin C, hydrocortisone, and…

Study fails to support MRV link to CFS

A study published by the Journal of Virology failed to find an association between chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and murine leukemia virus-related viruses (MRV),…

Study finds link between vitamin D and prostate cancer

Researchers writing in Prostate report that the gene GDF-15, known to be upregulated by Vitamin D, is notably absent in samples of human prostate…

Study finds patient satisfaction is associated with higher mortality

A study in the Archives of Internal Medicine reports that higher patient satisfaction was associated with higher overall health care expenditures and increased mortality.…

Study finds people with obesity are ‘dehumanized’

A study in Obesity reports that people with obesity are “blatantly dehumanized”. (more…)

Study finds radiofrequency ablation effective for Barrett’s esophagus

Radiofrequency ablation for Barrett’s esophagus with dysplasia has an acceptable safety profile and is associated with a low rate of disease progression, for up…

Study identifies barriers to patient safety

A study by AIG of hospital C-suite executives and risk managers in the United States found that the largest barrier to patient safety is…

Study in Health Affairs states surgical checklists save money

A study published in Health Affairs reports that use of the World Health Organization’s surgical safety checklist save hospital money because they prevent health…

Study of nurses with disabilities seeks participants

Leslie Neal-Boylan, PhD, RN, professor of nursing at Southern Connecticut State University, is conducting a study of registered nurses with permanent physical and/or sensory…

Study reveals no link between statin use and cognitive decline

A new study offers insight into a question that’s plagued healthcare for some time: Does an association exist between statin use and cognitive decline?…

Study reviews literature on patient-centered medical home

A systematic review article in November’s Annals of Internal Medicine found the current evidence isn’t sufficient to determine the effects of a patient-centered medical…

Study shows California staffing ratios saves lives

Study shows geographic variation in prescribing patterns

A New England Journal of Medicine study of Medicare patients found that prescribing patterns varied by hospital-referral region. For example, 44% of patients in…

Study: Older adults with hearing loss have more hospitalizations, poorer health

According to a study published by JAMA, older adults with hearing loss are more likely than peers with normal hearing to require hospitalization and…

Study: 8 million lives saved during years since Surgeon General Report on smoking

In the 50 years since the first Surgeon General Report on smoking (in 1964) 8 million premature deaths have been avoided, according to a…

Study: Antihypertensives decrease risk of Alzheimer disease

Diuretics, angiotensin-1 receptor blockers, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors seemed to reduce the risk of Alzheimer disease (AD), according to a study, published in Neurology,…

Study: Appropriate nurse staffing lowers hospital readmission rates

In a study published by Health Affairs, hospitals with higher nurse staffing had 25% lower odds of being penalized for readmissions compared to similar…

Study: Atrial fib hospitalizations, costs soar in U.S.

U.S. hospitalizations and costs of care for atrial fibrillation nearly doubled from 1998 to 2010, according to research presented at the American Heart Association’s…

Study: Benefits of animal therapy for children unknown

Researchers who reviewed studies looking at the impact of “animal interventions” in healthcare settings for children find that the evidence base for these interventions…

Study: Benefits of male circumcision far exceed risks

A study in Mayo Clinic Proceedings reports that the health benefits of male circumcision exceed the risks by more than 100 to 1. Overall…

Study: Bloodspot test for fibromyalgia

“A bloodspot-based diagnostic test for fibromyalgia syndrome and related disorders,” published in Analyst, reports that in the pilot study, the developed test distinguished fibromyalgia…

Study: Brain and cognitive reserves protect against cognitive decline in patients with MS

A study of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), published in Neurology, has found that brain reserve and cognitive reserve help protect against cognitive decline…

Study: Chocolate’s flavanol could help prevent obesity

Oligomeric procyanidins (PCs), a type of flavanol in chocolate, could help reduce obesity, according to a study in Journal of Agricultural & Food Chemistry.…

Study: Cocoa improves cognitive function in older adults

One month of drinking two cups of hot chocolate a day improved neurovascular coupling and cognitive function, according to a double-blind clinical trial of…

Study: Cooling temperature for therapeutic hypothermia

In unconscious patients who survived an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, cooling to 33 degrees C was no more beneficial than 36 degrees C, according to…

Study: Cost analysis of ACL reconstruction surgery

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is less costly and more effective than rehabilitation, according to a cost-utility analysis published in the Journal of Bone…

Study: Daily aspirin use lowers cancer mortality

Recent daily aspirin use is associated with lower cancer mortality but the size of the effect may be smaller than what was observed in…

Study: Decreased sepsis mortality

A study published by Critical Care Medicine reports that in-hospital mortality rates for sepsis decreased from 47% between 1991 and 1995 to 29% between…

Study: Decriminalization of marijuana increases pediatric ED admissions

A study in the Annals of Emergency Medicine found dramatic increases in children requiring medical intervention in states that decriminalized marijuana, although the overall…

Study: Dementia increases risk of incontinence

A UK study in PLOS Medicine found that people with dementia have about three times the rate of urinary incontinence and more than four…

Study: Despite increased resources, US lags in health outcomes

A study in JAMA reports that despite increased resources for health care, the US lags behind other peer nations in many areas, including life…

Study: Disinfecting caps reduce CLABSI rates

Using a disinfection cap (with isopropyl alcohol) on central line catheters significantly reduced central-line associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rates, according to a study in…

Study: Distracted driving more lethal

According to a recent study, from 2005 to 2010, the national number of pedestrians struck and killed by distracted drivers increased from 344 to…

Study: Donor feces more effective than vancomycin in treatment of recurrent C. difficile

A study in The New England Journal of Medicine found that infusing a solution of donor feces through a nasoduodenal tube was “significantly more…

Study: Even minor increases in physical activity benefits bone health in premenopausal women

A study to be published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that physical activity, even minor increases, in premenopausal women is…

Study: Exercise may reduce food craving

A study from Brigham Young University found that 45 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercise in the morning reduces a person’s motivation for food. The study…

Study: Family caregivers provide complex, chronic care

“Home Alone: Family Caregivers Providing Complex Chronic Care, ” from AARP and United Hospital Fund, found that almost half (46%) of family caregivers perform…

Study: Faster hospital MI care has not reduced mortality

According to a study in the New England Journal of Medicine, mortality rate for myocardial infarction (MI) didn’t significantly change between 2005 and 2009…

Study: Fatigue common in CHD

A study in Nursing Research found that 40% of patients with stable coronary heart disease (CHD) reported fatigue more than 3 days a week…

Study: Fecal microbiota transplant effective in immunocompromised patients

Fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) for the treatment of Clostridium difficile infection in immunocompromised patients is safe and effective, according to a study in the…

Study: Fewer work hours for medical residents could have unintended consequences

A study in JAMA Internal Medicine comparing schedules of first-year residents found that fewer work hours increased the number of patient handoffs (affecting continuity…

Study: Flu shots reduce risk of MI in middle-aged people with narrowed arteries

A study in Heart has found another benefit of influenza vaccination: It may reduce the risk of myocardial infarction in middle-aged (50 to 64…

Study: Flu vaccine prevented millions of illnesses in past 6 years

According to “Influenza Illness and Hospitalizations Averted by Influenza Vaccination in the United States, 2005–2011,” published in PLOSOne, vaccination prevented a minimum of 1.1…

Study: Former prison inmates at risk for hospitalization

A study in JAMA Internal Medicine reports that former prison inmates have a higher risk for hospitalization than the general population. About 1 in…

Study: Gestational diabetes may increase risk for atherosclerosis later in midlife

Pregnant women who develop gestational diabetes may be at risk for early atherosclerosis during midlife before the onset of diabetes and metabolic diseases, according…

Study: Ginkgo biloba doesn’t improve memory, executive function, or attention in healthy people

Ginkgo biloba doesn’t improve memory, executive function, or attention in healthy individuals, according to “Is Ginkgo biloba a cognitive enhancer in healthy individuals? A…

Study: Good nurse work environment lowers readmissions

Hospitals with a good versus poor nurse work environment had lower 30-day readmission rates for patients with heart failure, pneumonia, or myocardial infarction, according…

Study: Grandmothers raising grandchildren struggle with depression

Grandmothers who care for their grandchildren fulltime need help for depression and family strains, according to researchers from the Case Western Reserve University’s Frances…

Study: Handshake can indicate speed of aging

Handgrip strength corresponds to other markers of aging such as people’s future mortality, disability, cognitive decline and ability to recover from hospital, according to…

Study: Happy new marriage predicts weight gain

Newlyweds who are happy in their marriages tend to gain weight, which can affect their health, according to a study of 169 couples in…

Study: Head trauma associated with Alzheimer disease changes

A study published in Neurology has found that among patients with mild cognitive impairment, self-reported head trauma with at least momentary loss of consciousness…

Study: Health care organizations reduce SSIs by nearly half with Joint Commission project

A 2.5-year project under the direction of the Joint Commission Center for Transforming Healthcare in collaboration with the American College of Surgeons reduced surgical…

Study: Healthcare spending expected to grow 6.2% in 2014

According to projections published by Health Affairs, healthcare spending is expected to grow by 6.1% in 2014, and by 2022, healthcare spending financed by…

Study: High glucose in patients with diabetes increases risk of dehiscence after surgery for chronic wounds

A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery reports that preoperative and postoperative hyperglycemia and elevated A1c in patients with diabetes increases the risk…

Study: High patient satisfaction not linked to surgical quality processes

A study of 31 hospitals in JAMA Surgery found that patient satisfaction was not associated with performance of surgical process measures such as antibiotic…

Study: Higher Hgb or receiving EPO doesn’t improve neuro outcomes in patients with TBI

In patients with a traumatic brain injury (TBI), the administration of the hormone erythropoietin (EPO) or maintaining a higher hemoglobin (Hgb) concentration through blood…

Study: HPV increases risk of esophageal cancer

A meta-analysis published by PLOSOne found that human papillomavirus (HPV) triples the risk for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Read more

Study: ICU transfer timing affects mortality

A study in the American Journal of Critical Care found that transferring patients out of the ICU before or later an optimal time window…

Study: Immigrants contribute more to Medicare than they take out

According to a study in Health Affairs, immigrants in the U.S. disproportionately subsidize the Medicare Trust Fund, probably as a result of the high…

Study: Incidence of mental disorders in mid-life, older adulthood may be underestimated

A study published in JAMA Psychiatry has found that common methods of assessing mental or physical disorders may consistently underestimate the prevalence of mental…

Study: Insomnia may increase mortality

A study in Circulation reports that some insomnia symptoms (difficulty initiating asleep and nonrestorative sleep) are associated with a modestly higher risk of mortality.…

Study: Kidney transplant patients prone to early readmission

According to a study in the American Journal of Transplantation, 31% of kidney transplant patients are readmitted to the hospital within 30 days of…

Study: Light activity can reduce disability in patients with knee arthritis

Light physical activity, such as pushing a shopping cart or vacuum, can help people with or at risk of knee arthritis avoid developing disabilities…

Study: Longer military deployments increase divorce risk

The risk of divorce increases directly in relation to the length of time enlisted service members have been deployed to combats zones, according to…

Study: Lower blood glucose may be good for brain function

Even for people who don’t have diabetes, those who have higher glucose levels are more likely to have memory problems, according to a study…

Study: Medicaid expansion may reduce mortality

Expansion of Medicaid coverage may reduce mortality among adults, according to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Read more.

Study: Melanoma increases among middle-aged adults

A study in Mayo Clinic Proceedings reports that the incidence of cutaneous melanoma among middle-aged adults (40 to 60 years) has increased nearly eightfold…

Study: Men more likely than women to return to hospital within 30 days of discharge

A study in BMJ Open reports that men had a higher rate of hospital utilization, defined as ED visits or readmissions within 30 days…

Study: Mindfulness meditation may help patients with chronic inflammation

A study in Brain, Behavior, and Immunity found that an 8-week mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) intervention reduced the inflammatory response, suggesting that MBSR may…

Study: More diagnostic tests in ED may not improve outcomes for CAP

According to study published by Pediatrics, emergency departments (EDs) that used more diagnostic tests for community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) had higher hospitalization rates, but ED…

Study: More focus on maternal mental health needed

Maternal depression is more common at 4 years following childbirth than at any other time in the first 12 months after childbirth, according to…

Study: MRI may help diagnose bipolar disorder

According to a study in Psychological Medicine, MRIs may help diagnose people with bipolar disorder. The researchers correctly differentiated bipolar patients from healthy individuals…

Study: Nearly 70% of Americans on prescription drugs

Nearly 70% of Americans are on at least one prescription drug, and more than half take two, according to a study published by Mayo…

Study: Nearly 80% of deaths in first three decades of life traced to unintentional injury or violence

According to a report published in Lancet, nearly 80% of US deaths in first three decades of life are due to unintentional injury or…

Study: Nearly one-fourth of first-year college women start hookah smoking

A study of first-year female college students found that 23% started hookah tobacco smoking during the year after their entry into college. Read More.

Study: New delirium severity measure

A study in the Annals of Internal Medicine reports on an effective new delirium severity measure (CAM-S) based on the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM),…

Study: Night-shift ICU intensivists don’t improve patient outcomes

According to a study The New England Journal of Medicine, nighttime ICU intensivists did not improve patient outcomes. The study, “A randomized trial of…

Study: No same-day play for athletes with concussion symptoms

Any athlete with concussion symptoms should not be allowed to return to play on the same day, according to the latest consensus statement on…

Study: Nonconcussion head impacts may affect cognition

A study in Neurology reports that repeated blows to the head during a season of contact sports may cause changes in the brain’s white…

Study: NP-staffed clinic improves care, lowers cost for women with benign breast conditions

The Virginia Mason Breast Clinic, staffed by nurse practitioners (NPs), has substantially improved care timeliness for women with symptomatic benign breast conditions, according to…

Study: Nurse workload and education affect patient mortality

A study in The Lancet found that patients are more likely to die after common surgical procedures when they are cared for in hospitals…

Study: Obesity rate continue to climb worldwide

Worldwide, there has been a significant increase in rates of obesity and overweight in both adults (28% increase) and children (up by 47%) in…

Study: Online prostate cancer information may be hard for patients to understand

Although experts recommend that patient-education materials be written at the fourth-through-sixth grade level, a study published online by the Journal of Urology found that…

Study: Patients commonly misuse medications

A study of 75,997 urine specimen results found that 63% of patients did not have results consistent with a physician’s order. Of those with…

Study: Pay for performance doesn’t affect 30-day mortality

A study in The New England Journal of Medicine found that the hospital-based, pay-for-performance program Medicare Premier Hospital Quality Incentive Demonstration failed to reduce…

Study: Playing football and effects on brain

College football players with and without a history of concussions have less volume in the hippocampal region of the brain that relates to memory…

Study: Positive self-esteem protects older adults from health problems

According to a study in Psychoneuroendocrinology, a positive self-esteem can buffer adults older than 60 years against health threats. Researchers found that if an…

Study: Premature menopause may affect later-life cognition

Premature menopause is associated with long-term negative effects on cognitive function, suggests a study in BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Compared…

Study: Radiation therapy skin reactions may be preventable

Severe skin reactions during radiation therapy could be prevented by applying a thin transparent silicone dressing to the skin from the first day of…

Study: Reduced LOS reduces readmission, mortality

A study of 129 Veterans Administration hospitals published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that hospitals reduced length of stay over 14 years,…

Study: Regular colonoscopy screening could prevent 40% of colorectal cancers

Regular colonoscopy screening could prevent 40% of colorectal cancers, according to a study in the New England Medical Journal that followed 88,902 participants from…

Study: Report cards for hospital pressure ulcers may not be accurate

According to a study in the Annals of Internal Medicine, the data Medicare uses for public reporting hospital rates of pressure ulcers isn’t an…

Study: Reporting medical errors may help reduce them in multi-site clinical practices

Documenting adverse events improves perceptions of safety and may decrease incidents in multi-site clinical practices, according to a study from researchers at the University…

Study: Roles and responsibilities of patient navigators defined

A study in the Journal of Oncology Navigation and Survivorship defines the roles and responsibilities of patient navigators. Read more.

Study: Sedentary behavior associated with disability

A study in the Journal of Physical Activity & Health reports that sedentary behavior in adults aged 60 years and older is a risk…

Study: Serious mental illness increases cancer risk

The total cancer incidence in adults with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder was 2.6 times higher than the general population, according to a study of…

Study: Shortages of cancer drugs associated with medication errors and higher

A study in the American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy reports a survey of oncology pharmacists in the United States found that shortages of oncology…

Study: Showering helps ease discomfort of women in labor

A study in Clinical Nursing Research reports that a 30-minute “therapeutic shower” taken when a woman is in active labor, can significantly reduce tension…

Study: Smaller physician practices have lower preventable readmissions

A study published by Health Affairs has found that smaller physician practices have a lower rate of preventable hospital admissions compared to larger practices.…

Study: Smartphone app valid cognitive dysfunction screening

The Stroop smartphone application (EncephalApp_Stroop) is a short, valid, and reliable tool for screening for minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE), according to a study in…

Study: Smoking increases risk of complications after colorectal surgery

A study published in the Annals of Surgery has found that smoking increases the risk of complications after major colorectal surgery; current smokers were…

Study: SNFs have high readmission rates of Medicare patients

A high percentage of Medicare patients who are discharged from skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) will return to the hospital or the ED within 30…

Study: Social media may help with smoking cessation

A study published by the Journal of Communication found that those who participated in health-based social networking sites that focus on helping members to…

Study: Specific benevolence brings happiness

Pursuing concrete, specific goals of benevolence, such as making someone smile or increasing recycling, instead of following similar but more abstract goals, such as…

Study: Supplemental nurses compared to permanent nurses

Supplemental nurses and permanent nurses share similar education levels, but supplemental nurses are slightly less experienced, more racially and ethnically diverse, and more likely…

Study: Surgical checklist reduces 30-day morbidity

Using a surgical safety checklist, including providing comprehensive training on it, significantly decreases 30-day morbidity, according to a study in the Journal of the…

Study: Tamoxifen reduces future risk of breast cancer in women with genetic predisposition who have had a tumor

A study, published by the Journal of Clinical Oncology, of about 2,500 women has found that those who have inherited mutations in BRCA1 or…

Study: Thrombolytics significantly reduce mortality in sudden-onset PE

According to a study in JAMA, adding thrombolytics to conventional approaches when treating patients with sudden-onset pulmonary embolism is associated with 47% fewer deaths…

Study: Too much TV viewing can increase mortality

Adults who watch TV 3 hours or more a day may double their risk of premature death compared to those who watch less, according…

Study: Too much vitamin D harmful

A study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that both too little and too much vitamin D can increase mortality. Read…

Study: TV violence may affect brain development in young adult men

Young adult men who watch more violence on television show indications of less mature brain development and poorer executive functioning, according to a study…

Study: U.S. women don’t know most stroke warning signs

According to a study in Stroke, many U.S. women don’t know most of the warning signs of stroke. Of the 1,205 women in the…

Study: Urinary catheterization high risk for UTI

A review article in December 2012’s Journal of Hospital Infection found that highest population-attributable risk percentage for urinary tract infection (UTI) was associated with…

Study: Vitamin E may slow decline from Alzheimer disease

“Effect of Vitamin E and memantine on functional decline in Alzheimer disease,” a study published in JAMA, reports that 2,000 units of vitamin E,…

Study: Water pipe just as bad for you as cigarette smoking

A study in Respirology has found that the negative effects of water pipe (such as Hookah) smoking on pulmonary function are similar to that…

Study: Well-child visits may increase risk for flu-like illness

Well-child appointments for annual exams and vaccinations are associated with an increased risk of flu-like illnesses in children and family members within two weeks…

Successful gene therapy for hemophilia

A single treatment with gene therapy normalized levels of Factor VIII in patients with hemophilia as long as 1 year after the infusion, according…

Suggestions to help parents reduce child’s anxiety

The Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry released a study in March 2019 that showcases steps parents can take, in…

Suicide underestimated in U.S.

Self-inflicted injury is actually the eighth, not the tenth, leading cause of death, above kidney disease, and pneumonia and influenza, according to a report…

Summary of updates to guidelines for managing severe TBI in children

The American Journal of Critical Care has published an article that highlights the most important updates featured in the third edition of the guidelines…

$supplemental oxygen acute myocardial infraction$

Supplemental oxygen not always needed in AMI patients

Supplement oxygen isn’t needed for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients who have normal oxygen saturation, according to a systematic review and meta-analysis in the…

Surgary drinks can prompt early onset of menstruation

Girls who frequently consume sugary drinks tend to start their menstrual periods earlier than girls who do not, according to a study in Human…

Surgeons between 35 and 50 years old provide safest thyroid surgery care

A multicenter study of 28 surgeons performing 3,574 thyroidectomies published in BMJ found that surgeons aged between 35 and 50 years provide the safest…

Surgical caps and surgical site infections

Switching from surgical skull caps to bouffant caps doesn’t reduce surgical site infections, according to a study in Neurosurgery. Read more

Surgical site infections and nurse staffing

The risk of surgical site infections after elective total hip arthroplasty is lower in hospitals where nurses assess staffing as adequate, according to a…

Survey: Nurses Spend 53% of Shift on Tasks Besides Patient Care

Switching to pill organizer can put older people at risk for adverse effects

Older people who switch to using pill organizers could experience adverse effects and even hospitalization, according to a study in Health Technology Assessment. Read…

Take Note – April 2008

Pam Cipriano to receive ANA’s Distinguished Member Award American Nurse Today Editor-in-Chief Pamela Cipriano, PhD, RN, FAAN, will receive the Distinguished Member Award from…

Take Note – April 2009

A monthly round-up of clinical and practice news and alerts.

Take Note – December 2007

Previous pneumonia vaccination reduces ICU admissions Among adults hospitalized for pneumonia, those who’ve been vaccinated against the disease are less likely than unvaccinated patients…

Take Note – February 2007

Low-carb diets don’t affect cardiac risk Although diets low in carbohydrates and high in fats and proteins have been popular for the last few…

Take Note – February 2008

Elizabeth Battaglino Cahill, RN, named executive director of National Women’s Health Resource Center The National Women’s Health Resource Center (NWHRC) has appointed Elizabeth Battaglino…

Take Note – January 2007

Controversy over new Lyme disease guidelines The new guidelines released by the Infectious Diseases Society of America (ISDA) have run into some criticism. In…

Take Note – July 2007

On-line video-based course on emergency preparedness The need for better coordination between governmental agencies and hospitals became apparent after 9/11 and again after Hurricane…

Take Note – July/August 2009

A weekly round-up of clinical and practice news and alerts.

Take Note – June 2008

Failure to rescue is most common safety mistake in hospitals HealthGrades’ fifth annual Patient Safety in American Hospitals Study found that failure to rescue…

Take Note – June 2009

A monthly round-up of clinicial and practice new and alerts.

Take Note – March 2007

Take Note – March 2008

Updated guidelines on end-of-life care To improve the quality of palliative end-of-life care, the American College of Physicians has revised its guidelines. According to…

Take Note – November 2007

Medical illiteracy can kill A 6-year study of 3,260 patients ages 65 and older found that almost 40% of those considered medically illiterate died…

Take Note – October 2007

Medicare to stop reimbursing hospitals for eight preventable conditions Medicare will stop paying hospitals for the extra costs of treating eight conditions stemming from…

Team training reduces surgical morbidity

The Veterans Health Administration Medical Team Training program, designed to improve teamwork between nurses and physicians, significantly decreased surgical morbidity according to a study…

Teenage binge eating may be result of gene variation

A study in Obesity reports that binge eating in adolescents is associated with a gene variation. Read more and read the study abstract.

Telephone CPR improves cardiac arrest outcomes

A Telephone Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (TCPR) program increased survival rates and favorable outcomes for patients who experienced an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, according to a study…

Television show highlights 1950s nurse midwives

“Call the Midwife,” a television show on PBS, shows nurse midwives as positive influences in 1950s London. The show is sponsored by the American…

Tendon transfer surgery for tetraplegia patients underused

Tendon transfer surgery can significantly improve hand and elbow function for people with tetraplegia, but the surgery is greatly underused, according to a study…

Test helps identify preeclampsia women at risk for imminent delivery

A study has shown that soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase (sFlt-1)/placental growth factor (PlGF) ratio, already used for assessing preeclampsia, helps identify women with the…

The Atlantic publishes article on nurse leadership in ACOs

“The New Face of Health Care: Why Nurses Are in Such High Demand,” published by The Atlantic, discusses the role of nurse and physician…

The high cost of medical errors

According to “The Economic Measurement of Medical Errors,” medical errors cost the US $19.5 billion in 2008. Read more here.

The Joint Commission issues Sentinel Event Alert on falls

The Joint Commission has released “Sentinel Event Alert 55: Preventing falls and fall-related injuries in health care facilities,” which includes tools and resources. Read…

The Joint Commission issues sentinel event alert on preventing violence in the health care setting

On June 3, The Joint Commission issued “Preventing violence in the health care setting,” a sentinel event alert. It includes prevention strategies and suggested…

The Parkinson’s Foundation launched first-ever Nurse Fellowship program

The Parkinson’s Foundation recently announced the launch of its new Parkinson’s Nurse Fellowship program in the U.S. (more…)

Time of death after withdrawal of mechanical ventilation

Although time to death after withdrawal of mechanical ventilation varies widely, the majority of patients die within 24 hours according to an article in…

TJC releases sentinel event alert on radiation risk of diagnostic imaging

On Aug. 24, The Joint Commission (TJC) published a sentinel event alert on the radiation risk of diagnostic images. It includes actions organizations can…

Tokyo restaurant staffed by servers with dementia a success

An innovative restaurant in Tokyo staffed by servers who have dementia reports 99% satisfaction among diners even though mistakes in orders occurred about 37%…

Top apps for nurses in 2019

As smart phones become more and more integral in our lives, the American Nurse Today team would like to share some of the top…

Tracking nursing student errors

Safe Student Reports is a free tool for tracking nursing student errors and near misses. (more…)

Trained dogs effective in helping patients manage diabetes

More evidence that dogs are our best friends comes from a study in PLOS One. On average, trained dogs alerted their owners to 81% of hypoglycemic episodes…

Treatment consistent with POLST orders in nursing facilities

Overall, Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) were consistent with treatment provided to 870 nursing facility residents aged 65 and older, making it a…

Tree nuts may reduce risk of recurrent colon cancer

Patients who consume 2 or more ounces of tree nuts (for example, almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans, and cashews) per week lower their risk of…

Troponin may help predict cardiac events

Patients with elevated levels of troponin are about twice as likely as their counterparts to die from heart attack, stroke or other cardiovascular causes…

Twitter can help predict asthma-related ED visits

Researchers have created a model to predict approximately how many asthma sufferers would visit the ED at a large hospital in Dallas on a…

Two common tests fail to accurately predict preterm birth

Transvaginal cervical measurement and fetal fibronectin testing, used separately or together, do not adequately predict preterm birth and should not be used in routine…

Understanding & identifying rare liver disorder

In recognition of National Liver Awareness Month, American Nurse Today highlights a condition often overlooked and misunderstood, leading to misdiagnosis or underdiagnosis: Hepatic encephalopathy…

Updated guidelines for managing occupational HIV exposure released

Infection Control and Epidemiology has published “Updated US Public Health Service guidelines for the management of occupational exposures to human immunodeficiency virus and recommendations…

Urinary incontinence in nursing-home residents associated with increased mortality risk

Nursing home-residents with urinary incontinence are at higher risk for mortality, according to a study in the Journal of Advanced Nursing. Read more

Urinary tract symptoms in nurses

Lower urinary tract symptoms are a “significant issue” among female nurses, according to a systematic review published in the Journal of Advanced Nursing. Read…

US troops in Iraq breathe polluted air

Research presented at the 241st National Meeting of the American Chemical Society found that US troops in Iraq breath air that “often is polluted…

Use of bone morhphogenetic proteins not associated less reoperation for lumbar stenosis

A study in February’s Spine reports that use of bone morhphogenetic proteins (BMP) in spinal fusion surgery for older adults with lumbar stenosis reports…

Use of long-term acute care hospital after critical illness increases

The U.S. has an increasing number of long-term acute care hospitals, where patients are transferred after a critical illness. However, a study in the…

USPSTF recommends hepatitis B screening for high-risk people

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has released “Screening for hepatitis B virus infection in nonpregnant adolescents and adults,” which recommends screening in…

UTIs and STIs frequently misdiagnosed in the ED

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in women are misdiagnosed in emergency departments nearly half the time, according to a study…

Vaccine Hesitancy vs. Vaccine Refusal: Nursing Home Staffers Say There’s a Difference

CONCORD, N.C. — It had been months since Tremellia Hobbs had an excuse to bring out the pompoms. Before the pandemic, they were a…

Vaginal progesterone in women with short cervix may decrease preterm delivery

According to a meta-analysis published by the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, using vaginal progesterone in “asymptomatic women with a sonographic short cervix”…

Vagus nerve stimulation may reduce HF symptoms

A global, multicenter randomized clinical trial called INOVATE-HF (INcrease Of VAgal TonE in chronic Heart Failure) is investigating the safety and efficacy of an…

Vapor from e-cigarettes may increase bacterial growth and hamper immune system

The vapor from e-cigarettes suppresses immune defenses while increasing bacterial virulence, according to a mouse study in the Journal of Molecular Medicine. Read more and…

Variation in mortality

Compared to Whites, Blacks had lower risk adjusted mortality rates for several medical conditions and for abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, according to a study…

Virtual reality used to reduce blood draw pain in children

A study in the Journal of Pediatric Psychology reports that virtual reality can be used to significantly reduce patients’ and parents’ perception of acute…

Visits to ED for dental problems increase

According to a Pew Center report ED visits for dental problems increased 16% from 2006 to 2009. Read more.

Vitamin D levels linked to cardiorespiratory fitness

Are you getting enough vitamin D? Vitamin D levels in the blood are linked to cardiorespiratory fitness, according to a study in the European…

Want to slow the aging process? Restrict your calories

A study shows that restricting caloric intake slows the aging process, according to an article in a special issue of Journals of Gerontology that…

Weapon use predicts subsequent abuse incidents

Women are up to 83% more likely to experience repeat abuse by their male partners if a weapon is used in the initial abuse…

Weight loss by overweight and obese women increases vitamin D

Overweight and obese women who lost weight experienced increased levels of Vitamin D according to a study in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Read…

What are the most common causes of hospital readmissions?

A report from AHRQ notes that the highest hospital readmission rate in 2016 was for blood diseases, followed by neoplasms. (more…)

What new nurses like

According to a Nursing Research and Practice study of 1,152 newly registered nurses, what they like best about nursing can be summed up in…

What nurses need to practice effectively

A study from Sigma examines what nurses need to practice more effectively in a hospital environment. (more…)

What’s in a name?

What’s in a name? Editor’s note: The information below was provided by United States Pharmacopeial Convention (USP). It may be freely reproduced and distributed,…

White paper suggests strategies for improving nurse-physician relationships in the ED

“Developing & Strengthening Nurse-Physician Relationships: A CEP American White Paper,” released on June 12, details a program to improve nurse-physician relationships in the ED.…

WHO issues new HIV treatment recommendations

According to a new guideline from the World Health Organization (WHO), anyone infected with HIV should begin antiretroviral treatment as soon after diagnosis as…

WHO releases guidelines for antiretroviral drugs in HIV

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released “Consolidated Guidelines on the Use of Antiretroviral Drugs for Treating and Preventing HIV Infection.” Access the guidelines.

WHO releases new hepatitis C guidelines

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released “Guidelines for the screening, care and treatment of persons with hepatitis C infection.” Access the guidelines.

Women have better outcomes than men after major GI surgery

Women who undergo major gastrointestinal (GI) surgery are less likely to die in the hospital than men according to a retrospective analysis of 307,124…

Women report more negative emotional impact from diabetes than men

A survey from Rite Aid and WebMD found that compared to men, women report that diabetes had a greater negative impact on their emotional…

Wrist fractures may predict more serious fractures in postmenopausal women

Wrist fractures among women younger than 65 may predict more serious fractures in other parts of their bodies later in life, according to a…

Yet another reason to exercise

Need more motivation to complete your daily exercise routine? A study in the Journal of the American Heart Association reports that adults in their…

Yoga may ease side effects of prostate cancer treatment

For men with prostate cancer, structured yoga class twice a week during radiation treatment reduces fatigue and urinary and sexual dysfunction, according to a…

You really do need your sleep

Nurses frequently say they don’t get enough sleep, and now a study in Nature Communications reports that sleep loss leads to social isolation, which…

Your patients may need stress education

A recent survey conducted by Everyday Health may reveal insights for nurses and other healthcare providers when caring for patients. (more…)

Zika Virus resources from CDC

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has established a Zika Virus resource section. Access the section.

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