Search

The fast-paced hospital setting is not routinely a conducive environment for practicing procedural skills. Simulation learning can provide an opportunity for learners to achieve accuracy, confidence, and competence when performing the thoracentesis procedure. The cost associated with many commercial-brand manikins and the additional supplies needed to teach thoracentesis is expensive. However, thoracentesis is a skill many nurse practitioners (NPs) need to learn. The use of a whole, unstuffed turkey purchased at a supermarket to simulate a thoracentesis is a way in which NP students can safely practice this skill. Nurse practitioner students perform assessment skills on another student, whereas students perform the thoracentesis procedure on this turkey carcass. Nurse educators can teach NP students to safely, accurately, and efficiently perform a thoracentesis procedure using a low-cost simulator. Nurse educators can teach NP students how to perform a thoracentesis using a turkey carcass at a relatively low cost with a high yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the self-perceived readiness of medical-surgical nurses in a non–Veterans Health Administration (VHA) facility to care for veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorder (SUD). BACKGROUND: Nurses caring for veterans with PTSD and SUD at facilities other than the VHA should be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to provide care for this population. METHODS: Nurses evaluated their self-perceived knowledge, skills, attitudes, experiences, and perspectives related to caring for veterans. RESULTS: Nurses overwhelmingly indicated that they had no knowledge of the "Have you served?" campaign, and fewer than half inquired about military status when assessing patients CONCLUSION: Nurses caring for veterans in non-VHA facilities do not consistently identify veterans or assess for service-related conditions, including PTSD and SUD. Nurses report low skill levels related to identifying, addressing, and referring patients with service-related conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses aspects on the diagnosis and treatment of hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes. It states that hypoglycemia is a potential risk factor that can develop in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). It mentions that it can be classified in three categories such as mild, moderate, and severe. Moreover, adequate information and proper orientation on the common causes and risk factors can help in mitigating the risk of hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes.

The article discusses the main aspects that nurses need to keep in mind while detecting and treating hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes, which normally occurs in those taking insulin, sulfonylurea, or a meglitinide. The mild, moderate or severe signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia are described. The important things that need to be kept in mind for the treatment of hypoglycemia in diabetic patients including monitoring blood glucose levels and teaching patients the Rule of 15 are highlighted. INSET: Follow the rules.