‘Balanced Menus’ leads to reduced greenhouse gas emissions
Health Care Without Harm (HCWH) and the Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future, part of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg…
Strictly Clinical
‘Tis the season…to immunize
For many nurses, August is a whirlwind of back-to-school activity. And it’s not just the crunch of shopping for school…
“Bundle” up to prevent pressure ulcers
Find out how to start a pressure ulcer prevention program on your unit or in your facility.
2009 H1N1 Flu – Situation Update
Each week CDC analyzes information about influenza disease activity in the United States and publishes findings of key flu indicators…
2009 H1N1 Flu – Situation Update (01.04.10)
Each week CDC analyzes information about influenza disease activity in the United States and publishes findings of key flu indicators…
2009 H1N1 Flu – Situation Update (01.08.10)
Each week CDC analyzes information about influenza disease activity in the United States and publishes findings of key flu indicators…
2009 H1N1 Flu – Situation Update (02.02.2010)
Each week CDC analyzes information about influenza disease activity in the United States and publishes findings of key flu indicators…
2009 H1N1 Flu – Situation Update (11.20.09)
Each week CDC analyzes information about influenza disease activity in the United States and publishes findings of key flu indicators…
2009 H1N1 Flu – Situation Update (12.04.09)
Each week CDC analyzes information about influenza disease activity in the United States and publishes findings of key flu indicators…
2009 H1N1 Flu – Situation Update (12.11.09)
Each week CDC analyzes information about influenza disease activity in the United States and publishes findings of key flu indicators…
2020 American Heart Association Basic Life Support for the inpatient setting
Everything healthcare providers need to know Editor’s note: This is an early release of a web exclusive article for the…
6 surprising best resuscitation practices
Nothing is more important to the patient’s outcome than properly performed chest compressions.
A call to care: A model for creating an employee COVID-19 screening clinic
Takeaways: Setting up an employee COVID testing clinic requires leadership, coordination, and can be a model of patient-centered nursing care.…
A Case Study: Using Technology to Build a Culture of Safety
An emphasis on a culture of safety and appropriate use of technology help the organization deliver safer and more efficient health care.
A catastrophic diagnosis puts nursing care to the test
The complicated case of a retiree with a newly diagnosed lung tumor kicks off our new “Case Study” department.
A close call for a patient with a rare skin reaction
Stevens-Johnson syndrome has a 15% mortality rate. For one patient, accurate assessment of this rare skin condition led to a full recovery.
A geriatric family-centered care model for hospitalized elders
This innovative model has helped reduce falls and pressure ulcers, and RN turnover rates have dropped as well.
A horse is a horse—and sometimes part of a clinical team, too
Equine-assisted activities and therapies partner professionals with horses to address the patient’s needs.
A hospital’s Magnet® redesignation drive spurs efforts to improve patient safety
Magnet appraisers’ questions increase the author’s determination to reduce patient falls.
A little humor please
Laughter is a way of dealing with life’s stressors. Learning how to use humor to enrich our personal and professional…
A new oral anticoagulant hits the market
Pradaxa gives clinicians a new tool for preventing strokes and
blood clots in patients with atrial fibrillation. Learn how it works,
who’s eligible to receive it, and how to administer it.
A new surgical intervention for reflux treatment
Learn about LINX, a surgical procedure for treating chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease.
A partnership to enhance outcomes through quality dashboards and action
Learn how a multidepartmental task force improved a hospital’s data display and action-planning tools
A powerful question: “Have you ever served in the military?”
To help ensure military veterans get appropriate diagnosis and treatment, ask patients if they’ve ever served in the military.
A probable meningitis case puts the ED on alert
The care team works quickly to identify the patient’s meningitis type.
A quantum life
Quantum theory explains how you create your life through what you choose to think, then intend and, ultimately, do.
A question of disclosure: RNs often struggle with revealing their health conditions to employers
It’s no secret that Americans are living longer and that deaths from heart disease, stroke, and cancer are on the…
A ROADMAP involves patients and families in the plan of care
This electronic tool keeps patients and families informed on key aspects of care.
A roll-up-your-sleeves kind of hope
To reinvent health care, we need down-to-earth help and a roll-up-your sleeves kind of hope.
A special week for perioperative nurses
Learn about Perioperative Nurse Week and perioperative nurisng.
A stubborn case of supraventricular tachycardia
JAKE KARCHNER, age 65, is admitted for treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. Because of his history of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT),…
A swift, decisive response to GI bleeding
Coffee-ground emesis tips off caregivers to acute upper GI bleeding.
A troubled life, a difficult death
Editor’s note: National Homelessness Awareness Week is November 10-18. Like many of our homeless patients, “Sarah” was a bundle of…
A woman’s worst enemy
Most women woefully underestimate their risk for heart disease. Although breast cancer gets more publicity, heart disease and stroke kill nearly 12 times as many American women. This article details gender-based differences in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention and discusses strategies to raise awareness of women’s cardiovascular risks.
A woman’s reproductive health: Clues to future heart disease?
Reproductive status, hormonal therapy, oral contraceptives, irregular menstrual cycles, and pregnancy complications may raise woman’s risk of cardiovascular disease.
A word about patients’ psychic experiences: Listen
In her dream, a young pediatric nurse answered the phone at the nurses’ station and was told to go to…
A world of caring nurses
A photographic celebration of nurses around the world
AACN endorses white paper on medication reconciliation
The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) recently endorsed a white paper that calls for system-wide programs for medication reconciliation…
Abdominal aortic aneurysm
Recognize potential danger for a positive outcome. Takeaways: Abdominal aortic aneurysm is a serious condition that requires prompt identification and…
Absolute Neutrophil Count
For a patient with cancer, the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) is a crucial lab value. Are you familiar with the two methods for calculating it?
Act fast against anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis can kill within minutes unless the victim receives immediate treatment. Calling a rapid response team to the scene can avert disaster.
Act fast against pneumothorax
Stop life-threatening pneumothorax with quick thinking and action.
Act fast against severe hypoglycemia
With quick thinking and immediate action, you can save this patient.
Act fast when new neurologic deficits arise
Alert clinicians take immediate steps to eliminate a life threatening epidural hematoma.
Act immediately against anaphylaxis
An antibiotic infusion triggers a near-fatal reaction.
Acts of kindness
Many of us have lasting memories of a few special patients. For me, Joe is one of those patients. The…
Acute cardiac tamponade
Martin Pace, a 65-year-old man, is admitted with an inferior wall ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and receives a permanent pacemaker…
Acute cardiogenic pulmonary edema
Quick action prevents respiratory failure. Takeaways: Acute cardiogenic pulmonary edema occurs with reduced cardiac muscle efficiency. Decreased pump function results…
Acute flaccid myelitis
Nursing implications and public health Takeaways: Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a perplexing condition which, to date, has no concrete…
Acute hypopituitarism
Your recognition of troubling signs and symptoms results in prompt diagnosis and treatment. Takeaways: Hypopituitarism is the deficient secretion of…
Acute traumatic coagulopathy: The latest intervention strategies
Our evolving understanding of how blood loss causes shock is changing trauma resuscitation methods.
Adding an I to SBAR: A new twist on communicating patient emergencies
In the 2000 report To Err is Human: Building a Safer Health System, the Institute of Medicine challenged the healthcare…
Adolescents and marijuana: What nurses need to know
Andy was a freshman in high school when he first tried marijuana. He and his friends began experimenting, thinking marijuana…
Adult intussusception
Quick action ensures prompt diagnosis and treatment. Takeaways: Metformin-associated induced lactic acidosis (MALA) is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt,…
Adult obstructive sleep apnea: Taking a patient-centered approach
Sleep apnea causes sleep deprivation and, over time,
can lead to serious physiologic changes.
Advances in blood transfusion
Ongoing research, development, and vigilance initiatives are designed to make blood components safer and more easily available.
Advancing adoption of the electronic health record
Experts at the federal level are working to actualize the promise of health information technology.
Adventures in virtual meetings
Tired of unproductive staff meetings held at inconvenient times? Had it up to here with being interrupted when trying to express your opinion? Maybe it’s time to explore alternatives to the traditional in-person meeting. One hospital unit did just that, and their online meeting forum helped them create new protocols in record time.
Adverse drug reactions in the elderly: Can we stem the tide?
To make drug use safer in older adults, nurses must take complete medication histories, report suspected reactions to the FDA, and take a holistic view of our patients’ health status.
Advocating for patients in an era of drug-delivery problems
Learn what steps you can take to help patients avoid drug contamination and cope with drug shortages.
Air Force recognizes CRNAs’ full scope of practice
The U.S. Air Force releases a new policy on anesthesia delivery.
Airway pressure release ventilation: A boost for spontaneous breathing
Many clinicians are using this mechanical ventilation mode to help reduce lung damage, pneumonia, and other complications of ventilation. Find out how it works, when it’s indicated, how it preserves spontaneous breathing, and why it reduces sedation requirements.
Amazing apps: Space-age tools for clinicians
Health apps hold the promise of greater access to medical services, better monitoring of chronic conditions, and improved patient outcomes.
Ambulance diversions increase mortality
A new study finds that ED diversion is associated with increased mortality.
America’s Affordable Health Choices Act of 2009
Make a difference join ANA’s Health Care Reform Team
Amniotic fluid embolus
A team’s quick actions ensure a positive outcome. Takeaways: After a patient is admitted with gestational hypertension, she experiences an…
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and the trajectory of care
This case presentation illustrates ALS progression and accompanying care. Takeaways: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis care focuses primarily on palliation. Nurses must…
An evidence-based approach to creating a new nursing dress code
How should nurses dress? Should you wear a white uniform? Is jewelry appropriate on the job? A survey reveals what patients really think.
An invitation to error
What happens when you’re short staffed and there isn’t anyone to help?
ANA ACTION ALERT: Proposed regulations could mean big opportunity for nurses
Hospitals operate under a type of rule book: one that dictates who can do what, when, and where in patient…
ANA addresses nurse-specific measures in health IT
The American Nurses Association (ANA) has long supported nurse-specific measures in health IT
ANA addresses shift work
ANA position statements address the hazards of shift work.
ANA advocates for nurses’ health and safety
Collaborating in the new year to address pandemic challenges together As nurses contend with the pandemic and its multi-layered effects…
ANA awards five hospitals for outstanding nursing quality
The American Nurses Association (ANA) honored five hospitals Jan. 27 for achieving outstanding nursing quality, based on the nursing performance…
ANA comments on ACOs
In the political realm, there is intense debate on how to cut costs in the Medicare program without sacrificing services…
ANA endorses Kid Safe Chemicals Act
Acting on a directive from the 2006 House of Delegates, ANA has endorsed the Kid Safe Chemicals Act. The bill…
ANA Immunize resource
Click to visit www.anaimmunize.org, the American Nurses Association’s online immunization resource.
ANA participates in International Panel on Safe Patient Handling
Recognized as a champion of safe patient handling on a national level, the American Nurses Association (ANA) contributed expertise to…
ANA releases 2011 Health and Safety Survey results
ANA’s new survey identifies nurses’ concerns about health and safety in their work environments.
ANA signs on to letter affirming positive change in U.S. Public Health Service
ANA signs a letter of concern about proposed creation of an Office of the National Nurse.
ANA supports safe patient handling measures in Congress
“The Nurse and Health Care Worker Protection Act of 2009” (H.R. 2381) gets ANA approval.
ANA urges nurses to volunteer before disaster strikes
In the aftermath of the Haiti earthquake on Jan. 12, many nurses felt the urgent need to jump on a plane and hit the ground in Haiti to help treat and comfort the survivors, but were not sure how to go about it.
ANA works to remove legal barriers to APRN practice
While advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) have been increasing in number and expanding their impact on the healthcare system, federal…
Anaphylaxis in the school setting
Quick action results in positive outcome. Takeaways: School mealtimes are important for socialization and nutrition, but food allergies can be…
Anatomy lesson 101
ANA’s National Center for Nursing Quality promotes nursing quality and patient safety while helping nurses advocate for themselves.
Animal assistants in healthcare
An animal may provide just the benefit patients need. Prepandemic, I had the pleasure of traveling to the National Institutes…
Antibiotic stewardship
Every nurse has a responsibility to prevent antibiotic resistance. Takeaways: Nurses have a key role to play in preventing infections…
Antidepressant discontinuation syndrome: What every acute-care nurse should know
Rapid withdrawal from antidepressant drugs can cause serious problems in acute-care patients. This article explains why acute-care nurses need to put antidepressant discontinuation syndrome on thier radar screen.
Anxiety attack or myocardial infarction?
The patient thinks she knows what’s causing her chest pain. Her nurse knows she must rule out myocardial infarction.
Aortic aneurysm: Causes, clues, and treatment options
Increase your ability to recognize aortic aneurysms and provide postop care.
Aphasia: When speaking is hard
Imagine you are talking, and then suddenly you can’t. Your ability to communicate has paused. Over time, or in an…
Applying a systematic approach to new-product assessment
Take the spontaneity out of new-product purchases to control costs and keep patients safe.
Applying the Magnet™ model to improve medication safety
A Baltimore hospital used the five Magnet components as a framework for
transforming its bedside medication administration process. Involving directcare
nurses in decision making was a key aspect of the project.
Are 12-hour shifts safe?
Is working 12 consecutive hours in a fast-paced, high stress, physically and mentally demanding environment a good idea? Click here…
Are extended work hours worth the risk?
Today, 75% of hospital nurses work 12-hour shifts. But studies
show a link between nurse fatigue and preventable medical errors.
Are we making progress against autism?
Scientists are learning more about this baffling disorder, but a cure is a long way off.
Are you an ABG ace?
Can you interpret arterial blood gas (ABG) values with confidence? To find out, test yourself with the case studies in this article.
Are you confident about confidence intervals?
The confidence interval yields information on how confident
researchers are about the success of a studied intervention.
Are you prepared for malaria?
Global traveling brings about 1,000 cases of malaria to this country each year. Don’t be caught off guard if you encounter it in your practice.
Are you ready to care for patients in clinical trials?
Part 1 of a four-part series on clinical trials
Aromatherapy for you and your patient
Use fragrant oils to soothe muscles, relieve tension, and more.
Assessing the seven dimensions of pain
Pain affects many aspects of your patient’s reality. Learn about the seven dimensions of pain and how to evaluate them.
Asthmatic teenager lands in the ICU
Alarming findings signal the need for noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation.
Astute assessment prevents paralysis
What seems like a simple pulled muscle to a shipping clerk turns out to be cauda equina syndrome, a potentially paralyzing injury that warrants immediate surgery.
Astute assessment saves a patient with PE
A nurse responds quickly to the patient’s distress.
Asymptomatic bacteriuria in institutionalized elderly
Follow the evidence for best practice. Takeaways: Positive urine cultures among older patients living in long-term care facilities frequently lead…
Attacking anterior-wall myocardial infarction in time
More than 1 million Americans a year suffer a myocardial infarction (MI). This article tells you how – and how quickly – you need to respond to the most dangerous MI.
Attacking anterior-wall myocardial infarction in time
More than 1 million Americans a year suffer a myocardial infarction (MI). This article tells you how – and how quickly – you need to respond to the most dangerous MI.
Attitude: The power of human energy
Our thoughts, feelings, and disposition influence other people, not just because people see and read our facial expressions or body language, but because thoughts themselves are energy.
Avoiding complications from an acute GI bleed
When a patient begins to vomit bright red blood, a nurse relies on his knowledge of Mallory-Weiss tears-and the adroit interventions of the rapid response team.
Awash in “bath salts”: The dangers and skyrocketing use of mephedrone
Banned in September, this designer stimulant can cause dangerous side effects and death.
AWHONN releases new staffing guidelines
The Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN) recently announced that it has published new perinatal nurse staffing…
Baby pictures: Preserving precious moments in the NICU
For one nurse, taking pictures of preemies develops into an art form.
Banner Simulation Medical Center: Using simulation to set up new nurses for success
Today, many nursing students graduate from educational programs without the clinical skills and judgment they need to handle a typical…
Battlefield nursing at the Boston Marathon
Three yellow balloons danced through the air, hovering over the finish line after being released by the bomb blast that…
Be a myth-buster: Stop the misconceptions about fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia produces many symptoms but no signs, so some clinicians dismiss it as a wastebasket diagnosis. But the pain is very real, and patients with fibromyalgia need you to understand their pain – and try to relieve it.
Be a myth-buster: Stop the misconceptions about fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia produces many symptoms but no signs, so some clinicians dismiss it as a wastebasket diagnosis. But the pain is very real, and patients with fibromyalgia need you to understand their pain – and try to relieve it.
Be prepared for poison ivy, oak, and sumac
The author clears up misconceptions and discusses treatment.
Behind the curtain: Creating an in situ simulation experience
Go "behind the curtain" to learn how simulation is being used to prepare hospital-based nurses for urgent situations.
Being a nurse, but also a daughter or son to our aging parents
Nurses come to the profession to provide care for individuals and, in some cases, populations. It is what we do…
Being with Dying
Your most powerful message has nothing to do with words.
Benzocaine puts a patient in a bind
Methemoglobinemia from benzocaine exposure causes tissue hypoxia.
Best practices for seasonal influenza immunization
Seasonal influenza and influenza-related complications are the most frequent causes of death from a vaccine preventable disease in the United…
Better care for patients with borderline personality disorder
Adult nurse practitioners (NPs) encounter patients with a wide range of challenging behaviors. Some of these behaviors can be especially…
Beyond a box of chocolates
Often, patients and families express their gratitude for a special nurse’s outstanding care with spoken thanks or heartfelt commendations written…
Beyond an interesting “read”
Nurse authors call on educators to incorporate IOM findings into education, practice.
Beyond customer service
Many nurses don’t like to hear their patients called “customers” or be told to provide “customer service.” This expert explains how to lose the lingo and adapt the principles of customer service to patient care.
Beyond the donor shortage: Mechanical help for the failing heart
For patients with severe heart failure, ventricular assist devices are being used in more ways than ever.
Blood-borne pathogen exposure injuries
Healthcare workers are exposed to blood-borne pathogens through contaminated needlesticks, sharps injuries, and mucous membrane exposures to infectious blood or…
Bloodstream infections from peripheral lines: An underrated risk
Analytics—the study of data to reveal meaningful patterns—is remaking large swaths of our culture, from business to sports to politics.…
Body contouring: Shaping the future of patients with an obese past
Massive weight loss leaves lots of excess skin. See how plastic surgery can help.
BONES: A postoperative plan of care and education program for total joint replacement patients
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 719,000 total knee replacement and 332,000 total hip replacement procedures…
Bradykinin-induced angioedema
Quick treatment results in a good outcome. Takeaways: Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors can increase the release of bradykinin, which can increase…
Brain Booster – Summertime Emergencies
Exercise your intellect with this summertime crossword puzzle.
Breath at the belly
Mindfulness training can help nurses, patients, and loved ones cope with loss, grief, and suffering.
Brought to you by NDNQI: Data that do good
Thanks to the National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators, hospitals and nurses are capturing and converting into data what nurses actually do and how their actions affect patient care.
Building a compelling business case for nursing and quality indicators
The author outlines how to make a business case for clinical quality measures, including how to use NDNQI data to substantiate your position.
Building the case for chemical policy reform
Over the past three decades, we have become increasingly aware of the impact that our environment, and chemical exposures in…
Buying time for patients with acute liver failure
Managing the complications of acute failure, so your patient’s liver has time to regenerate.
Calculating and interpreting the odds ratio
Researchers use the odds ratio to analyze which of two groups of individuals
is more likely to have an adverse outcome. Find out how to calculate the
odds ratio and interpret its significance
Calculating I.V. drip rates with confidence
Do you sometimes have trouble remembering the equation you learned for calculating I.V. drip rates? This article presents a simplified equation that can make calculations quicker and easier – whether the medication order is written for mcg/kg/minute, mcg/minute, or mg/minute.
Calculating I.V. drip rates with confidence
Do you sometimes have trouble remembering the equation you learned for calculating I.V. drip rates? This article presents a simplified equation that can make calculations quicker and easier – whether the medication order is written for mcg/kg/minute, mcg/minute, or mg/minute.
Calming a thyroid storm
Saving a patient’s life may rest on recognizing which findings are red herrings and which hold the key to the crisis.
Can a nurse be too old to work at the bedside?
Read guest blogger Donna Cardillo’s thought-provoking article about when age comes into play during a nurse’s career. A recent New…
Can soyfoods relieve postmenopausal symptoms?
The estrogen-lilke properties of isoflavones found in soyfoods
may ease menopausal symptoms and lower the risk of
osteoporosis and heart disease.
Can teach-back reduce hospital readmissions?
A study shows this method helps educators focus on topics the patient doesn’t fully grasp.
Can we curb substance abuse in college students?
Nurses can use current science to collaborate with other healthcare professionals toward reducing alcohol and drug abuse.
Capnography: A vital sign for the 21st century
Unlike traditional vital signs, capnography yields clear, specific information about the patient’s condition and quickly alerts you to life-threatening disturbances.
Care during crisis
ANA brings nurses, experts together to shape practice policy during disasters
Care of clinical trial participants: What nurses need to know
The third in a series of articles on clinical trials from nurses at the National Cancer Institute.
Care, not chaos
A new document created by ANA and other groups delineates emergency care principles for psychiatric patients.
Caring and advocating for school children
When we think about RN staffing issues, most of us immediately think about these issues in the context of hospitals…
Caring for a homeless adult with a chronic disease
For homeless people, chronic illnesses can be hard to manage. Here’s what you should know about assessing these patients and developing a practical discharge plan.
Caring for adult patients with obesity in primary care
Evidence-based interventions are key for successful outcomes. Editor’s note: This is a web exclusive article for the October 2021 issue…
Caring for Caregivers: What Is Proven to Relieve Caregiver Strain and Burden?
Editor’s note: One of a series of articles on managing cancer-related symptoms from the Oncology Nursing Society. More than 1.5…
Caring for chronic wounds: A knowledge update
Assess wounds more precisely, identify wound-related problems earlier, and intervene more effectively.
Caring for older lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender adults
Current discussions on the unique health issues of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) populations have prompted the healthcare professions…
Caring for patients in alcohol withdrawal
Be sure you’re prepared to care for patients with this condition
Caring for patients with metabolic syndrome
A precursor to serious complications, this dangerous condition is on the rise among Americans.
Caring for patients with Parkinson’s disease
Learn about assessment, intervention, and teaching for patients with this progressive debilitating disease.
Caring for patients with solid organ transplants
Donald Brooks, age 57, comes to the emergency department after fracturing his right hip in a skiing accident. He is…
Caring for patients with traumatic brain injuries: Are you up to the challenges?
Many patients face prolonged recovery and permanent disability after a traumatic brain injury. This article reviews appropriate assessment and intervention and highlights family care.
Carotid artery stents: Opening the way to safer stroke prevention
Because of improvements in safety, stents are now the treatment of choice for many patients. Learn about the improvements and your role in patient care.
Carrots and sticks
The Stick—penalties for excess readmissions Is your hospital on the list? Starting this month, over 2,200 hospitals are forfeiting up…
Cartoonist with a cause
The cartoons of Theresa Garnero, APRN, BC-ADM, MSN, CED, help patients cope with diabetes.
Case study: Coerced consent
“Coercion is commonly said to invalidate consent, and that is always true if the source of the coercion is the physician.
Case Study: How much is enough?
Three-year-old Christy* has been in the hospital’s pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) since birth, when she was diagnosed with McCune-Albright…
Case Study: When is what you know considered confidential?
Five years ago, Jane Doe* was an inpatient at the XYZ Psychiatric Medical Clinic, being treated for long-standing cocaine use.…
Catching cauda equina in time
Michael Smith, age 45, is admitted for lumbar laminectomy revision and fusion surgery. Despite his operative blood loss of an…
Catching on to C. difficle
Typically caused by antibiotic therapy, Clostridium difficile is now common in hospitals. Learn how to help stop the spread of this potentially fatal infection.
CDC publishes updates to immunization schedules for children and adults
Vaccines are known as one of the greatest achievements in public health over the last century. And each year, it…
CDC recognizes National Immunization Awareness Month
Click to visit www.cdc.gov/vaccines/events/niam, where you can find information from the CDC concerning this year’s National Immunization Awareness Month.
Ceiling lifts and safe patient handling and mobility programs
Equipment accessibility and multifunctionality help ensure program success. Editor’s note: This is an early release of a web exclusive article…
Central lines: Recognizing, preventing, and troubleshooting complications
Central lines can save lives. But dangerous complications can occur unless caregivers know how to identify, prevent, and solve potential problems.
Central venous catheter dressings put to the test
A nursing team’s research findings lead to hospital-wide savings.
Cerebral interventional radiology: New options for stroke victims
Every 40 seconds, someone has a stroke; every 4 minutes, someone dies from stroke. Strokes are the fourth leading cause…
Cerebral salt wasting: An overlooked cause of hyponatremia
Commonly confused with SIADH, cerebral salt wasting can result from such neurologic conditions as subarachnoid hemmorrhage, intracranial hemorrhage, ischemic stroke, intracranial surgery, and brain trauma.
Cerebral vasospasm
Prompt recognition of subtle signs saves patient’s life. Key Points: Patients who experience an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) require frequent…
Cervical Spine injuries: Preserving function, improving outcomes
How to provide skilled care that stops the damage and helps your patient manage the injury.
Cervical spondylosis with myelopathy: Painful and sometimes paralyzing
This progressive degenerative spine condition is commonly mistaken for
arthritis. This article covers assessment and management, including preop and postop care.
Challenging nursing’s sacred cows
Do you routinely instill normal saline solution into endotracheal tubes before suctioning? Use only the Glasgow Coma Scale for neurologic assessment? Evidence on these and other sacred cows of nursing practice might surprise you.
Chemical soup
ANA and state associations work to protect nurses and the environment from chemicals.
Chemotherapy and Biotherapy Drugs for Autoimmune Disease
New biotherapy drugs and older chemotherapy agents may improve quality of life in patients with autoimmune diseases.
Chest tube care: The more you know, the easier it gets
Many nurses find chest tube care intimidating—but it doesn’t have to be. Once you understand the basics, you can be…
Chief nurse officer takes on full range of public health issues
Rear Admiral Carol A. Romano, PhD, RN, FAAN, is the Assistant Surgeon General and Chief Nurse Officer for the United…
Choosing wisely: Resources for selecting sharps safety devices
An essential part of a sharps safety program is selecting appropriate devices, such as safety needles. While no one device,…
Climate Change
Nursing confronts climate change.
Clinical nurse leaders and clinical nurse specialists: harmonious partners
Collaboration between these two valuable resources depends on understanding how their roles differ.
Clinical trials 101
Don’t miss the second in a four-part series on clinical trials written by nurses from the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health, which covers phases of clinical trials, informed consent, ethics, and more.
Closing in on the cause of agitation
When an elderly patient becomes confused and agitated, a careful history of recent procedures and medications points clinicians in the right direction.
CMA Lobbyists plan to protect nurses, patients, and public from harmful chemicals.
By Angela Song As the new U.S. Congress convenes this January, the ANA will present our legislative agenda with a…
Collaborating on technology: A learning exchange between U.S. and U.K. nurses
An immersion study found that shared governance helps healthcare organizations keep up with technology.
Collaborating to improve the financial health of health care
Nurses are collaborative by nature, especially when providing patient care. We embrace team-based care, and we welcome family members as…
Color awareness: A must for patient assessment
Color “blindness” may help minimize social and economic disparities, but can impede accurate patient assessment. The author explains why nurses should practice color awareness and tells how to adapt skin inspection for dark-skinned patients.
Coloring outside the lines
The Institute of Medicine’s Future of Nursing Initiative needs to create solutions that propel nursing and health care into the future.
Combating medication verification workarounds in an electronic world
In the classic report To Err is Human: Building a Safer Health System, the Institute of Medicine reported that at…
Communicating with intubated patients: A new approach
Learn how one hospital improved communication between nurses and intubated patients through the use of an algorithm,
new communication devices, and a focused communications course for nurses.
Community-acquired pneumonia: Follow the guidelines to better outcomes
Make sure your care of patients with community-acquired pneumonia is evidence-based and up-to-date.
Complete blood count: Getting beyond the basics
The shapes of red blood cells can tell you plenty about your patient’s condition – if you know how to interpret them.
Complications after brain hemorrhage repair
To save this patient, the team must halt cerebral artery vasospasms quickly.
Confronting racism in health care
Our editor-in-chief discusses the issue of race in health care.
Congress considers mental health parity legislation
Legislation under consideration in the U.S. House and Senate would require group health insurers to cover mental health care at…
Connecting the dots leads to suspicion of sepsis
Maria Espinoza, age 45, is recovering on the medical-surgical unit 2 days after a decompression fasciotomy for compartment syndrome of…
Consider a career as a wound, ostomy, and continence nurse
In 2008, hospitals, extended-care facilities, and home-health agencies will face these regulatory and patient-care issues: (more…)
Continuous insulin infusion therapy: It’s not just for the ICU anymore
Administering continuous insulin infusions on every hospital unit improves glycemic control and patient outcomes.
Continuous renal replacement therapy: Dialysis for critically ill patients
This technique slowly removes wastes and excess plasma water, helping patients recover from their illness.
Controlling blood glucose in hospital patients
Recent studies shed light on the importance of maximizing glycemic control in inpatients with diabetes.
Controlling blood glucose levels in hospital patients: Current recommendations
The authors describe a three-pronged hyperglycemia management
approach.
Cornucopia
Food-and Americas’ overconsumption of it-have become public health issues. We need therapy for what one expert calls our “national eating disorder.”
COVID-19 diagnostic testing
Nurse knowledge can improve test administration, ensure efficacy, and increase result accuracy Takeaways: • Three COVID-19 diagnostic testing methods are…
Create a healing environment for patients with pseudobulbar affect
Teach patients how to manage PBA for optimal quality of life. Takeaways: Pseudobulbar affect (PBA) can develop after a stroke…
Creating a smooth move for patients and staff
When Missouri Baptist Medical Center had to relocate nearly 200 patients in a single day, staff and leaders knew collaboration and planning would be key. Here’s how they did it.
CRRT spells success against acute renal failure in critically ill patients
Why critically ill patients with acute renal failure need continuous renal replacement therapy.
Current and future newborn screening
Newborn screening illustrates what can happen when genetic testing converges with ethics and electronic health records
Cystocerebral syndrome
Rapid recognition leads to a quick reversal. Takeaways: Assess the full medical history of patients on admission, including bowel and…
Daily sedation breaks and breathing trials help wean patients from ventilators safely
For patients on mechanical ventilators, daily sedation cessation can decrease
ventilator, ICU, and hospital days. Careful use of safety screens is
crucial for patient safety and successful weaning.
Dealing with the dangers of dog bites
Dog bites can cause serious or even fatal injuries. Find out how to assess and intervene when your patient has been bitten.
Dear Members of Congress
In an open letter to Congress, Dr. Cipriano urges legislators to leverage nurses’ knowledge, skills, and abilities to help bring order to a chaotic healthcare system.
Deep-brain stimulation: Hope for dystonia patients
Deep-brain stimulation can make a significant difference in the lives of patients with dystonia.
Defeating horizontal violence in the emergency department
The authors share how they defused horizontal violence in their ED.
Déjà vu all over again
Some people simply can’t learn from the past—even the fairly recent and painful past.
Delegating without doubts
With this decision tree as your guide, you’ll delegate tasks to assistive personnel with confidence.
Dementia: The quiet thief
The nurse’s note read, “not orientated to place and time due to dementia.” Several hours of general anesthesia for a…
Demystifying literature reviews
Every nurse should understand evidence-based practice and the terms used in literature reviews.
Demystifying palliative and hospice care
Armed with answers, you can provide patients and families with the information they need to make care decisions. Takeaways: Patients…
Demystifying ventricular arrhythmias
Learn how to recognize and intervene for patients with these electrical heart abnormalities.
Denture care promotes good health
Advocate careful cleaning and storage. Takeaways: Microbial plaque that accumulates on dentures may be harmful to oral mucosa and overall…
Derailing disaster after pulmonary aspiration
Thanks to an alert nurse, an elderly patient avoids respiratory failure during her recovery from hip fracture surgery.
Derailing potentially deadly dehydration
When a dehydrated patient falls into a stupor and her vital signs head south, a rapid response team can help unit nurses stabilize her quickly – and avoid the semmingly inevitable.
Detect compartment syndrome in time
Early recognition and action can save a limb.
Detecting and screening for depression in older adults
Don’t assume depression is a normal finding in elderly patients.
Detecting cardiac injury with telemetry
With multi-lead telemetry monitoring, a nurse detects dangerous changes in her patient’s heart rhythm, permitting quick action before an acute MI does permanent damage.
Detecting dysphagia
It’s 8:00 am and time for your 83-year-old patient, Virginia Johnson*, to take her oral medication. She was admitted with…
Detecting elder abuse and neglect: The importance of good skin assessment
Bruises, grip marks, and lacerations are just some of the indications of elder abuse. By Armi S. Earlam, DNP, MPA,…
Detecting, managing, and preventing pulmonary embolism
Pulmonary embolism (PE) kills about 25% of those it strikes. This article explains how deep vein thrombosis (DVT) sets the stage for PE and describes how to assess, manage, and prevent both DVT and PE.
Detecting, managing, and preventing pulmonary embolism
Pulmonary embolism (PE) kills about 25% of those it strikes. This article explains how deep vein thrombosis (DVT) sets the stage for PE and describes how to assess, manage, and prevent both DVT and PE.
Diagnosing and managing cough
Check out these highlights from the American College of Chest Physicians’ new guidelines.
Differences among physicians, risk managers in admitting errors
Differences in attitudes among physicians and risk managers about revealing medical errors to patients may diminish the effectiveness of such disclosures, according to a new study published in the March 2010 issue of The Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety.
Differentiating diabetes complications: What’s your call?
A patient who collapsed at home arrives at the hospital with a blood glucose level off the charts, plus extreme thirst and polyuria. Think his diagnosis is cut and dried? Think again.
Differentiating research, evidence-based practice, and quality improvement
All nurses should know and understand the differences among these three concepts.
Discovering and stopping hyperkalemia
Fast, focused assessment and action can stop this dangerous imbalance.
Dispelling pain myths
Read up on the latest evidence-based best practices in pain management.
Disposal dilemmas in home health care
Learn the proper way to dispose of sharps and waste pharmaceuticals used in the home.
Do you know the vaccination requirements for adolescents and adults?
This handout, part of ANA's Bringing Immunity to Every Community campaign,
provides the tools you need to ensure that adolescents and adults
get appropriate vaccinations.
Do you know which vaccines are recommended for special populations?
Pregnant and postpartum women, immunocompromised
children, and persons at high risk for flu-related complications have special immunization needs. Part of ANA’s Bringing
Immunity to Every Community campaign, this handout
explains how to help ensure that these vulnerable populations are protected.
Dodging a trach tragedy
When a patient’s O2 Sat falls and subcutaneous neck edema arises, adroit troubleshooting identifies the cause.
Does evidence-based nursing increase ROI?
A quality-improvement initiative quantified return on investment (ROI) from cost avoidance for five healthcare-acquired conditions.
Does periodontal disease contribute to preterm birth?
The authors discuss the answer to this question.
Does your workplace culture need CPR?
If you suspect your workplace culture is “ill,” assessment is a crucial first step. Using an established assessment tool can help ensure more thorough data collection.
Doing the most good
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 provides many benefits.
Doing the right thing: Pathways to moral courage
Learn how to prepare yourself for the ethical and moral dilemmas you’re likely to encounter in the workplace.
Don’t tolerate disruptive physician behavior
No matter if you like – or fear – a doctor who behaves badly, you must report the incident for the sake of the staff, the patients, the institution.
Don’t forget ‘and mobility’
Mobility is an integral component of safe patient handling.
Don’t get ‘caught’ in the CAUTI trap
Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI), the most common healthcare-associated infection, can be deadly.
Doubling or tripling of Americans with diabetes
As many as 1 in 3 U.S. adults could have diabetes by 2050 if current trends continue, according to a…
DPP-4 Inhibitors: A new approach to type 2 diabetes
Find out how this new class of drugs may help some of the 10 million Americans with type 2 diabetes who can’t control their glucose levels.Â
DPP-4 inhibitors: A new option for diabetes management
Drugs that inhibit dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) may improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes, reducing the risk of disease complications.
Drug errors harm 1.5 million people each year, report finds
In a new report, the Institute of Medicine concludes that at least 25% of harmful adverse drug events are preventable, and recommends specific preventive actions for nurses and other healthcare workers.
Drug therapy gets personal with genetic profiling
In the not-so-distant future, the science of pharmacogenetics may
enable clinicians to give the right drug in the right dosage to the
right patient—in every case.
Drugs and Devices Today
2/11/10 Recall of AEDs On February 3, Cardiac Science Corporation issued a recall for about 12,200 automated external defibrillators because…
Drugs in the environment: Nurses’ roles and responsibilities
Editor’s note: This issue of American Nurse Today offers three perspectives on medication disposal, designed to educate nurses on this important issue so they can serve as advocates and teach their patients properly.
Drugs Today – August 2008
Web Exclusive! An update of drug news, including alerts, approvals, and removals, at www.AmericanNurseToday.com/journal.
Drugs Today – December 2008
Web exclusive! An update of drug news, including alerts, approvals, and removals.
Drugs Today – February 2009
WEB EXCLUSIVE! An update of drug news, including alerts, approvals, and removals.
Drugs Today – July 2008
An update of drug news, including alerts, approvals, and removals.
Drugs Today – March 2009
Web exclusive! An update of drug news, including alerts, approvals, and removals.
Drugs today – May 2009
An update of drug news, including alerts, approvals and removals.
Drugs Today – November 2008
Web Exclusive! An update of drug news, including alerts, approvals, and removals at www.AmericanNurseToday.com/journal.
Drugs Today – October 2008
Web Exclusive! An update of drug news, including alerts, approvals, and removals.
Drugs Today – Sept/Oct 2009
FDA warns against certain OTC nasal sprays Over-the-counter Zicam intranasal cold medications may cause long-term or permanent loss of the…
Drugs Today – September 2008
Web Exclusive! An update of drug news, including alerts, approvals, and removals at www.AmericanNurseToday.com/journal.
During an emergency: Be safe!
Thousands of accidental chemical spills and leaks take place in this country each year. Providing nurses with adequate first-receiver training can help ensure that we can care for contaminated patients without endangering ourselves.
Early detection of acute compartment syndrome
Quick action prevents serious harm. Takeaways: Acute compartment syndrome (ACS) is a surgical emergency that requires early identification to avoid…
Easing the way for the electronic health record
Pressure is building to develop a national electronic health record – and the nursing profession is playing a pivotal role in developing the standards needed to support it.
Emergency cardiac drugs: Essential facts for med-surg nurses
In the hospital setting, emergencies typically occur in emergency departments (EDs) and intensive care units (ICUs). But many also take…
Emergency nursing: A specialty unlike any other
The president of the Emergency Nurses Association tells why she’s proud to be an emergency nurse.
Emergency!
Our new crossword puzzle test your knowledge of medical emergencies.
Emerging infectious threats: Respiratory protection for personal safety
Many experts think a flu pandemic (perhaps the swine flu) is inevitable, underscoring the need for all healthcare workers
to learn how to use respirators properly.
Enabling the ordinary: More time to care
The value of technology in automating and improving patient care
End the epidemic of childhood obesity…one family at a time
Obesity poses a dire health threat to children. Learn how to help families break the obesity cycle by following the recommendations in the AMA’s comprehensive new childhood obesity guidelines.
End the epidemic of childhood obesity…one family at a time
Obesity poses a dire health threat to children. Learn how to help families break the obesity cycle by following the recommendations in the AMA’s comprehensive new childhood obesity guidelines.
Ending AIDS: Safe sex is still key despite medical advances
There is much to celebrate in the battle against acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is increasing life…
Ending the cycle
Nurses nationwide work to eliminate partner violence.
Enhancing nursing curriculum with an injection of technology
Use online tools to engage and motivate students. Evidence-based research has changed teaching from a traditional teacher-centered approach to a…
Enhancing patient outcomes with sequential compression device therapy
Use sequential compression devices effectively to help achieve the best possible outcomes for patients.
Ensuring quality and saving time
The National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators® tracks the care nurses provide, helping to improve nursing practice, patient outcomes, and the work environment.
Environment, health and safety
ANA has been very concerned with and involved in the issue of ergonomic hazards as a health and safety concern…
Environment, health, & safety
With the growing reuse of single-use medical devices, ANA supports improvements in end-of-use product management and research on ethical and safety issues related to these devices.
Environment, health, & safety
Is widespread triclosan use leading to microbial resistance? ANA urges nurses to take a cautionary approach toward using triclosan-containing products at home.
Environmental health and the pediatric patient
Save the children. Every pediatric assessment should include a complete environmental health history.
Esophageal varices
Quick action prevents a negative outcome. Takeaways: Cirrhosis of the liver causes scaring, shrinking, and hardening. Complications of cirrhosis include…
Essential elements of a comprehensive sharps injury-prevention program
The steps outlined below can help facilities significantly reduce sharps injuries.
Ethics and the quality of care
Leah Curtin discusses the issue of quality care from an ethical perspective.
Ethics case study: Poor staffing results in brain-damaged patient
Author Leah Curtin discusses the ethical issue of short staffing.
Ethics for nurses in everyday practice: Insubordination in the ICU?
What happens when there is no room in the ICU for an ED patient?
Evaluating the neurologic status of unconscious patients
Assessing the neurologic status of unconscious or comatose patients can be a challenge because they can’t cooperate actively with your…
Evaluating the neurologic status of unconscious patients
Assessing the neurologic status of unconscious or comatose patients can be a challenge because they can’t cooperate actively with your…
Evaluation of practice: Small-volume intravenous medication administration via neonatal peripherally inserted central catheter lines
Medications administered intravenously in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) are often less than 3 mL in volume. However, guidelines…
Evidence-based interventions for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting
Learn what you can do to manage this devastating effect of cancer treatment.
Evidence-based interventions for constipation in patients with cancer
Editor’s note: One of a series of articles on managing cancer-related symptoms from the Oncology Nursing Society. Constipation is a…
Evidence-based interventions for depression in patients with cancer
Editor’s note: One of a series of articles on managing cancer-related symptoms from the Oncology Nursing Society. Dana Jennings, in…
Evidence-based interventions for dyspnea
Editor’s note: One of a series of articles on managing cancer-related symptoms from the Oncology Nursing Society. Dyspnea is “a…
Evidence-based interventions for sleep-wake disturbances
Editor’s note: One of a series of articles on managing cancer-related symptoms from the Oncology Nursing Society
Evidence-based interventions for the prevention of bleeding in patients with cancer
Learn how you can help prevent bleeding in patients with cancer.
Evidence-based practice in healthcare: Is it on shaky ground?
“Federal panel recommends against prostate cancer screening.” This news headline may have given some nurses a sense of déjà vu,…
Excessive opioids lead to a close call for a burn patient
Tim Waters, age 28, is admitted to a burn intensive care unit for treatment after a natural gas explosion in…
Exposed to patient’s body fluids? Now what?
Learn how to protect yourself by taking the right steps if you are exposed to a patient’s body fluids.
Eye of the beholder: Grand rounds at the museum
“What do you see in his eyes?” asks Dr. Rothenberg. After a brief pause, someone replies, “He looks sad.” Another…
Facing cranial nerve assessment
This humorous approach will help you take a serious step toward remembering the cranial nerves.
Facing up to widespread obesity
Facing up to widespread obesity – a reality check on a very real epidemic.
Faculty shortfall
Helen O’Shea, PhD, RN, hasn’t retired completely from her role as a nurse educator, and that is very fortunate, for…
Faith, community, and health: Partnerships with good neighbors
Our editor-in-chief turns a spotlight on faith and community partnerships.
Family history as a genetic assessment tool: Where are the resources?
Learn the value of a genetic history and resources for how to conduct one.
Family initiated rapid response team
Rapid response isn’t just for staff. More hospitals are allowing, even encouraging, patients and their families to make the call for help.
Family presence during resuscitation: Who decides?
Effective communication enables nurses and physicians to negotiate a collaborative decision that honors the family’s wishes.
Far from home, bringing smiles to children’s faces
During my three decades as a nurse, volunteering on a medical mission has always been on my “to do” list.…
Fat embolism syndrome
Early identification prevents negative outcomes. Takeaways: Fat embolism syndrome is a rare complication that can occur after traumatic orthopedic injuries.…
Fear of the low: What you need to know about hypoglycemia
Approximately 25.8 million children and adults in the United States have diabetes. Especially with the diabetes rate rising yearly, you’re…
Fecal microbiota transplantation: Breaking the chain of recurrent C. difficile infection
The author describes an innovative technique that is helping patients with C. difficile infection, including patient selection; care before, during, and after the procedure; and patient education.
Fending off disaster for a frostbite victim
Without effective treatment, more than 40% of frostbite
victims require digital amputation. Can Jonathan’s toes
be saved?
Fine-tuning your feeding-tube insertion skills
Even if you’re accustomed to inserting feeding tubes, the procedure can cause complications. The authors provide safety guidelines to help you make feeding-tube insertion safer.
Food in the fight against cancer: The evidence on cancer-related anorexia
Among the many treatments and supportive interventions for cancer, nurses and patients must not overlook a foundation of health—good nutrition. A proper diet during cancer treatment and beyond is essential for patients to feel better, have the strength needed to fight the disease, and maintain wellness.
Formula for success: Deliver enteral nutrition using best practices
Between 30% and 50% of adults admitted to U.S. hospitals are malnourished. This article explains how to provide nourishment while achieving better outcomes and shorter hospital stays.
Free radicals: What are they and why should nurses care about them?
Understanding free radicals at the cellular level can help focus our care practices.
From our readers: Harp song — A journey to remember and embrace the heart of nursing
“The aim of all spiritual paths, no matter their origin or the rigors of their practice, is to help us…
From our readers: My first code—A retrospective report of a premature promotion and a crisis situation
The elevator’s walls were covered in bronze and silver raised metal squares that gave the appearance of a magic eye…
From our readers: On being an oncology nurse, or humble pie by the slice
I came to oncology nursing in 1984 through what I perceived as bad luck; my goal was to get out…
From our readers: One nurse’s journey into patienthood
As I lay on the table staring up at the ceiling tiles and waited for my biopsy to begin, I…
From our readers: Overtime is only fun in baseball: A somber look at mandatory overtime and nursing care
The author reviews issues surrounding mandatory overtime.
From our readers: Resolving the forces of bias and duty in caring for incarcerated patients
In the nurses’ station of the 39-bed med-surg unit I double-checked my patient’s 2:00 PM medications against the pharmacy sheet…
From our readers: The art of self-disclosure
One aspect of the “art” of nursing is appropriate self-disclosure. Nurses and other healthcare providers often have an opportunity to…
From our readers: The guilt suicide leaves behind
Dedicated to John, who was loved by so many
From our readers: What it means to be a nurse
A nurse shares her meaning of nursing.
From our readers. . . Is disaster relief nursing for you?
Recently I had the opportunity to provide nursing services after an earthquake disaster in the Caribbean. In this article, I…
From our readers….Caring for Haiti from afar
The devastation in Haiti following the earthquake caused many of us in healthcare to come to a standstill. I am…
From our readers…A case study of implementing an injury prevention program
The authors explain how they successfully implemented an injury prevention program.
From our readers…A staff nurse perspective on the IOM Future of Nursing Report
A staff nurse gives his perspective on this important report.
From our readers…Balancing the power in favor of patients
Ms. Sims, a bedside nurse featured by Leah Curtin earlier this year inspired me to write this article. At the…
From our readers…Caring for the world by recycling supplies
I became aware of the acute lack of essential medical supplies when I participated in medical missions work in the…
From our readers…Creating a patient/family advisory board
Today’s nurse is challenged to procure the skills and knowledge to facilitate healthy work environments in order to achieve best…
From our readers…Hourly rounding benefits patients and staff
Studies have shown hourly rounding decreases call light usage and unit noise levels, increases patient satisfaction, and reduces falls. Some…