Heart & lung : the journal of critical care
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Mediastinitis, a serious complication after cardiac surgery, increases morbidity, mortality, and cost of care. Accumulating evidence implicates blood transfusions in the development of mediastinitis. ⋯ The findings of this systematic review suggest that allogeneic red blood cell transfusions are associated with an increased risk of mediastinitis in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Individual risks and benefits should be assessed in each patient before a red blood cell transfusion.
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Little is known about the practice patterns of nurses who work in the specialty of heart failure (HF). This specialty includes inpatient and outpatient sites for practice that incorporate intensive care to rehabilitation. The purpose of this study was to describe the current practice of nurses who are members of the American Association of Heart Failure Nurses (AAHFN). ⋯ This survey provides insight into the practice patterns of HF nurses. Continued monitoring of this role is warranted and can serve to assist the AAHFN in advancing HF knowledge and skills.