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Several strides have been made when it comes to cervical cancer prevention. Research has identified high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPVs) as causal agents, a test has been developed to detect HPV infection (Digene HPV Test, Digene Corp.; Gaithersburg, MD), and a vaccine (Gardasil, Merck & Co.; Whitehouse Station, NJ) is now marketed to prevent infection of the most common types of HPV.
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In 1998, the United States was on the verge of eliminating syphilis, one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Today, the national syphilis rate has increased for the seventh consecutive year, according to preliminary data presented at the March 2008 National STD Prevention Conference.
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Although more than 30 million transdermal fentanyl patches are involved in a recent recall, well-planned processes enabled hospice agencies to contact and protect their patients affected by the recall.
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This is the second part of a two-part series on partnerships between hospice agencies and long-term care providers. Last month, we looked at the key issues to address in relationships that involve hospice employees visiting residents in long-term care facilities. This month, we look at a hospice agency that has developed an inpatient hospice unit within a long-term care facility.
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Two Duke University Medical Center researchers tackle the question "Is it ethical to conduct clinical trials with patients in a hospice environment?" in the Feb. 4, 2008, "Professional Issues" section of the American Medical News web site.
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As the Baby Boom ages into an elderly boom, and demand for long-term and home health care soars, health care employees face changing realities at work.
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No hospice manager looks forward to any type of survey, but agencies that elect to undergo a deemed status survey by The Joint Commission can take care of two surveys in one visit.
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The Hospice Foundation of America (HFA) has partnered with AssistGuide Information Services (AGIS), an online community and information resource for family caregivers, to offer advice and information on end-of-life issues for caregivers. The AGIS web site is www.agis.com.
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The February 2008 recall of transdermal fentanyl patches was an important issue for hospice agencies, but it only was one part of a bigger issue facing hospice agencies and palliative care providers.
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One-third of the estimated 177,504 emergency department visits by elderly patients for adverse drug events were caused by warfarin, insulin, and digoxin in 2004 and 2005, says a new study.
