Ostomy/wound management
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Ostomy/wound management · Oct 1998
Closure of the "non-healing wound" corresponds with correction of weight loss using the anabolic agent oxandrolone.
We studied the relationship between restoration of weight loss and healing of the "non-healing wound." Eight consecutive patients with large "non-healing wounds" of an average of 12 months duration, despite good local wound care, were studied. All had a weight loss of 10 percent or more of body weight, mainly lean body mass. Optimizing nutrition (4 weeks) did not significantly increase weight or healing. ⋯ Five wounds completely closed and three closed by 75 percent during this period. We noted a significant correlation (r = 0.67) between restoration of weight loss and closure of the previously "non-healing wound." The rate of wound healing was most prominent after 50 percent of weight loss had been restored. This finding reflects the key relationship between restoring body weight, body protein stores, and wound healing.
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The purpose of this study was to evaluate predictors of hospital acquired heel pressure ulcers. A prospective cohort study of hospitalized patients was conducted (N = 291). Subjects were enrolled by one team and followed by another team that was blind to initial assessment information. ⋯ ROC curves were virtually identical using all new scoring systems as compared to the original Braden scale. No new scoring system was identified that led to a clinically significant improvement in sensitivity/specificity over the total Braden scale. While not perfect, the Braden scale may currently be the best predictive tool for heel pressure ulcer development.
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Telemedicine combines computer, video and telecommunications to provide healthcare to patients at distant sites. With the improved camera and transmission technologies of the 1990s, telemedicine can be used in a variety of situations. There are two basic technological systems: live interactive video and still image ("store and forward"). ⋯ Two home telemedicine models are the personal telemedicine unit and the enhanced personal telemedicine module with pc-based video. Telemedicine technologies developed by the military for use on the battlefield that could be adapted for civilian use include medical simulations, individual monitoring devices and biosensors, portable retinal display monitors, life support for trauma/transport, and diagnostic ultrasound imagery. Ultimately, the benefits of telemedicine will be consistency of care, easy access to specialized consultants, higher responsiveness to patient needs, and lower overall healthcare costs.
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Ostomy/wound management · Jun 1996
Comparative StudyNurse caring behaviors: comparing five tools to define perceptions.
We asked which of five tools that measure perceptions of caring attributes (Larson's Care Q, Larson's Care/Sat, Nyberg's CAS, Duffy's CAT, Wolf's CBI) have the greatest usefulness in studies with patients and nurses. A convenience sample of 26 nurse administrators completed all five tools. Data was collected on completion time, demographic characteristics, and how results compared with earlier research using the same instruments. ⋯ Duffy's CAT had negatively worded items. Similar results were obtained with Wolf's CBI as previously described in the literature and it had consistent language, short completion time, easy to understand instructions, and easy to analyze results which could be used in a correlational design study. We conclude that Larson's Care Q (using a simpler method of administration) or Wolf's CBI could be valuable in determining perceptions of caring in patients and nurses.