Nursing times
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The National Patient Safety Agency has produced guidance on the safe testing of nasogastric tubes. This article outlines the recommendations and discusses their rationale and background.
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An epidural abscess, defined as a collection of pus between the dura mater of the spinal cord and the vertebral canal (Mosby, 2002), is a rare complication of epidural analgesia. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to a good outcome. If left untreated, an epidural abscess can result in permanent paralysis and incontinence. It is essential that nurses caring for patients receiving epidural analgesia are aware of this potential risk.