Orthopaedic nursing
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Orthopaedic nursing · Jan 2007
ReviewScoliosis, superior mesenteric artery syndrome, and adolescents.
Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is defined as a lateral curvature of the spine that can occur in any region of the spinal column. For curves that require surgical correction, spinal fusion is the surgical treatment, and superior mesenteric artery syndrome is a possible complication. ⋯ Research regarding adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and superior mesenteric artery syndrome is warranted to identify if some adolescents are more likely to develop superior mesenteric artery syndrome. The advanced practice nurse can identify which adolescents may develop superior mesenteric artery syndrome and provide safe care to avoid this complication.
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Orthopaedic nursing · Nov 2006
NIOSH research efforts to prevent musculoskeletal disorders in the healthcare industry.
Healthcare workers, including orthopaedic nurses, face a number of risk factors in the workplace for musculoskeletal disorders such as back and shoulder injuries. These disorders are associated with excessive back and shoulder loading due to manual patient handling, applying excessive forces during pushing and/or pulling of objects, required use of awkward postures during patient care, and working long hours and shiftwork. ⋯ The studies conducted by NIOSH researchers and their partners approach the problem from a variety of perspectives, ranging from comprehensive epidemiological studies examining the effectiveness of implementation of a safe patient handling and movement program to laboratory studies evaluating the biomechanical stress associated with using patient handling equipment, and education training programs for use in schools of nursing to educate new workers about safe work practices. Results of these studies have provided scientific evidence that significant occupational risks for musculoskeletal disorders exist and that effective interventions are available to reduce the risk for these workers.
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Patients with obstructive sleep apnea provide significant challenges to the perioperative team. This disorder is often undiagnosed and coexists with other disease processes such as hypertension, congestive heart failure, and cor pulmonale. ⋯ The pathophysiology of obstructive sleep apnea is reviewed here along with the anesthesia implications of this disease process. Members of the perioperative team need to be aware of the implications of sleep apnea so that surgical outcomes can be optimized.
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Orthopaedic nursing · Jul 2006
Pain perception and its relation to functional status post total knee arthroplasty: a pilot study.
This pilot study examined the influence of pain perception on functional status. ⋯ Pain intensity is only one component of pain perception. Management of the sensory and affective components needs further research.