ED Nursing Archives – May 1, 2010
May 1, 2010
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Your 'normal-looking' patient just might be having a TIA
If a patient tells you they felt a little funny a few hours ago but feel absolutely fine now, would you be inclined to discharge them home? Or would you assess them for a possible transient ischemic attack (TIA)? -
Just abdominal pain? Don't rule out cardiac
If your patient complains of abdominal pain, a heart attack might not be the first thing you think of. However, this diagnosis is certainly one possibility, says Cathy C. Fox, RN, CEN, CPEN, clinical nurse educator for the ED at Sentara Virginia Beach (VA) General Hospital. -
Pediatric Corner: Giving a med for first time? Be ready for ADEs
The most common culprits for adverse drug events (ADEs) in pediatric patients are antimicrobial agents, central nervous system agents, and hormones, says a new study. -
In case of ingestion, 'assume the worst'
(Editor's Note: This is the second of a two-part series on caring for potentially suicidal adolescents. This month, we cover steps to take after an ingestion and provide questions to ask if you suspect an overdose. Last month, we gave strategies for assessing the risk of self-harm and avoiding over-medicating patients.) -
News Briefs: Is it safe to discharge a heart failure patient?
About one-third of heart failure patients are discharged from the ED home, and some of these patients are at risk for dying shortly after their ED visit, says a new study. -
Spot these signs of infection at triage
[This is the first part of a two-part series on identifying and caring for patients with infections. In this month's issue, we tell you how to improve assessment. In next months' issue, we'll give you tips for how to protect yourself and your patients when an infection has been identified.]