Nursing times
-
Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders encountered in clinical practice. Its prevalence increases with age and it is more common in the female population. Although often trivialised as a common and minor problem, chronic constipation is associated with considerable impairment of quality of life and is a significant burden on healthcare budgets. This article gives an overview of the management of constipation in adults, including assessment and treatment.
-
EU legislation to reduce needlestick injury and consequent infections will come into force in May 2013. The law will oblige healthcare organisations to take measures to prevent needlestick injuries to staff, and strongly recommends the use of safety-engineered medical devices. ⋯ There is still a need for further education on the risks of injection. This article reviews a number of commonly held views regarding the risk of needlestick injury and discusses whether the statements are supported by the evidence.