Nursing times
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Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are useful medications for the management of pain. However, Cox-2 NSAIDs have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular side-effects and there are now concerns that this increased risk may extend to all NSAIDs. This article outlines the action of NSAIDs and discusses the evidence for a link with increased cardiovascular risk.
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Despite developments in knowledge of pain control, many patients still experience unnecessary postoperative pain. This article reports on an audit of postoperative pain and its management in one trust. The results led to the development of a new system using standard prescriptions to empower nurses to manage patients' pain.
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Review Case Reports
Criteria for using a nurse-led ventilator-weaning protocol.
Mechanical ventilation is a process by which gases are moved into and out of the lungs by means of a ventilator, a machine that delivers a controlled flow of gas to a patient's airway. The reasons for mechanical ventilation include respiratory arrest, acute lung injury, critical illness and respiratory support following surgery.
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The Glasgow coma scale is the most widely used method for assessing a patient's level of consciousness. This article outlines the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust's guidelines to assist practitioners with the practical aspects of carrying out and interpreting the scale.
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The role of the nurse practitioner (NP) has recently expanded and is now recognised in a range of health care delivery settings including primary care. In addition, the last few years have seen a proliferation of use of the NP title. This article outlines a set of competencies that aim to bring clarity to the role.