Journal of wound, ostomy, and continence nursing : official publication of The Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society
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J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs · Sep 2009
Efficacy of a skin tear education program: improving the knowledge of nurses practicing in acute care settings.
We sought to evaluate the knowledge base of acute care registered nurses (RNs) regarding skin tears and the efficacy of an online educational program designed to improve their knowledge of skin tears including (1) predisposing factors; (2) identification and assessment of skin tears using the Payne-Martin Classification System; and (3) preventive care, treatment, and documentation. ⋯ Our Web-based skin tear educational program was effective in improving nurses' knowledge regarding skin tear identification and assessment, classification and differentiation, and treatment.
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J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs · Sep 2009
The relationship among pressure ulcers, oxygenation, and perfusion in mechanically ventilated patients in an intensive care unit.
We examined the relationships among oxygenation, tissue perfusion, and other comorbid conditions not incorporated into the Norton Scale, and pressure ulcer (PU) development in subjects receiving mechanical ventilation. ⋯ Our results demonstrate that mechanically ventilated patients who develop PUs were more likely to have significantly higher blood glucose levels, significantly lower diastolic blood pressure values, and significantly higher serum pH values than were patients who remained free of PUs. Nurses who care for mechanically ventilated patients should recognize these factors and initiate preventive interventions as indicated.
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J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs · Sep 2009
Comparison of bodily pain: persons with and without venous ulcers in an indigent care clinic.
The purpose of this study was to examine bodily pain and its relationship with functional status, perception of control, coping, and depression for patients with and without venous ulcers who were receiving care in an urban, primary care clinic for low-income adults. ⋯ Compared to patients without venous ulcers, those patients with venous ulcers rated their pain lower and reported higher coping and control over pain, which may be reflected in better subjective pain management despite having more pain sites and disability related to pain. Pain management for indigent patients with and without venous ulcers remains a concern and needs further study.
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J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs · Sep 2009
ReviewTopical treatment protocol for Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis: a brief report.
Patients with exfoliative disorders such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis may present in a variety of healthcare settings with a range of clinical manifestations. The amount of surface area involved varies widely and the full extent of involvement may not be predictable. ⋯ Patients benefit from a coordinated approach that often includes both burn team members and wound care specialists. The purpose of this article is to provide a summary of these conditions for the WOC nurse.
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J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs · Sep 2009
Knowledge, beliefs, attitudes, and self-reported practice concerning urinary incontinence in nursing home care.
Urinary incontinence (UI) is a prevalent problem in aging adults and is associated with significant psychosocial, physical, and economic consequences. In order to improve continence care, it is important to understand nurses' knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes about UI. This study examined the relationship between knowledge, beliefs, attitudes, and continence-related practice. ⋯ It is worth making an effort to increase nurses' knowledge about UI assessment via continuing education. In addition, nurses' and nursing assistants' attitudes can be positively influenced by cooperation with advanced practice geriatric nurses.