J Am Acad Nurse Prac
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J Am Acad Nurse Prac · Apr 2008
Predisposing factors to phlebitis in patients with peripheral intravenous catheters: a descriptive study.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the predisposing factors in the development of phlebitis in peripheral intravenous (IV) catheterization sites in patients treated with a variety of IV infusion solutions and drugs. ⋯ Phlebitis causes sepsis, pain, additional diagnostic investigations, and treatments, and may lead to increased duration of hospitalization, patient's stress level, and financial burden, as well as increasing staff workload. Advanced practice nurses need to be aware of the factors that increase the likelihood of phlebitis and take appropriate measures to prevent it.
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J Am Acad Nurse Prac · Feb 2008
Review Case ReportsScoping the family history: assessment of Lynch syndrome (hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer) in primary care settings--a primer for nurse practitioners.
To describe and discuss the characteristic features and red flags of Lynch syndrome, also known as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer, that warrants referral for genetic cancer risk assessment (GCRA). A focus on the nurse practitioner's (NP) role in familial risk assessment, physical examination, initiation of genetic referrals, and issues related to the genetic counseling process are also discussed. ⋯ Approximately 5% of all colon cancers are because of a germ line mutation predisposing individuals and their family members to colorectal and other cancers. Although the efficacy of screening modalities is established, healthcare providers often fail to identify those at greatest risk for disease. The extended family history is the first step in recognition of individuals "suspect" for hereditary colon cancers such as Lynch syndrome. Early-age onset of Lynch syndrome-associated cancers, an autosomal-dominant pattern, multiple primary tumors in an individual or multiple family members with Lynch syndrome-associated cancers, characteristic pathological features of colon cancer, or a known germ line Lynch syndrome mutation in a family member are "red flags" that will aid NPs in identifying individuals who may benefit from GCRA. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSE PRACTITIONER PRACTICE: The importance of enhanced surveillance for early diagnosis and prevention of disease is a critical part of primary care. Thus, it is imperative that NPs obtain a minimum of a three-generation pedigree, recognize hereditary cancer patterns, and provide referral counseling for consideration of genetic testing of individuals suspect for Lynch syndrome.
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J Am Acad Nurse Prac · Dec 2007
Florida nurse practitioners' attitudes and practices regarding oral cancer prevention and early detection.
To examine Florida nurse practitioners' (NPs') attitudes and practices regarding oral cancer prevention and early detection. ⋯ Florida has among the nation's highest oral cancer rates, but persons at highest risk are among those least likely to see a dentist. Therefore, a multidisciplinary approach involving all relevant healthcare providers, including NPs, may be more effective than relying only on dentists' efforts in improving survival rates for oral cancer. Strategies are needed to increase the involvement of Florida's NPs in oral cancer detection.