ED Nursing articles from October 2004

ED Nursing archives from October 2004

Will your ED comply with safety goals? Don't wait until it's too late: failure to comply with goals will mean serious consequences for your ED.
October 1, 2004... EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The new National Patient Safety Goals for 2005 from the Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations will affect your practice dramatically. The new requirements are effective Jan. 1,2005. *...

Use creative strategies for JCAHO's medication goal.
October 1, 2004... EXECUTIVE SUMMARY One of the new National Patient Safety Goals for 2005 requires you to reconcile a patient's medications across the continuum of care. This may be more difficult in the ED, because patients may be unresponsive. * If...

Fast treatment of alcohol withdrawal can save lives.
October 1, 2004... EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Patients with alcohol withdrawal syndrome often are overlooked in the ED because early symptoms may be subtle, but treatment delays can be life-threatening. * Early administration of benzodiazepines can prevent...

Are pediatric trauma carts missing essential supplies?(Pediatric Corner)
October 1, 2004... EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Your ED may lack rarely used pediatric trauma supplies such as child-sized chest tubes, central lines, and intraosseous needles. This omission can have devastating consequences. * At a minimum, have airway equipment...

Redirect nonurgent patients and comply with EMTALA: ED gives expedited MSE to 260 patients' a month.(Pediatric Corner)
October 1, 2004... EXECUTIVE SUMMARY An expedited medical screening examination (MSE) by nurses or physicians can redirect nonurgent patients while complying with the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA). * There is the potential for bad...

Smart pumps can prevent dangerous drug errors.(Pediatric Corner)
October 1, 2004... EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Infusion pump errors can be prevented with the use of smart pumps, but few EDs currently are using this technology. * Cost of purchasing the product, in addition to the need for programming and training, are the...

Use 'stat' system to raise nursing morale in the ED.(Tip Of The Month)(Brief Article)
October 1, 2004... What is likely to be a more powerful morale booster than a pat on the back from your manager? A sincere compliment from a colleague. At Lafayette (LA) General Medical Center, a "stars" reward program allows any staff member to compliment...

CE questions.
October 1, 2004... After reading this issue of ED Nursing, the CE participant should be able to: * Identify clinical, regulatory, or social issues relating to ED nursing (See Will your ED comply with safety goals? Don't wait until it's too late and Use...