British journal of nursing (Mark Allen Publishing)
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Wound cleansing is performed on a regular basis by many healthcare professionals. However, the modern concept of cleansing has not always been a priority in wound management. There are many questions which challenge those responsible for cleaning wounds such as how often a wound should be cleaned and which techniques should be used. This article begins with a brief guide to wound cleansing and then focuses on the new Steripod normal saline produced by SSL International.
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There is increasing recognition of the therapeutic benefits of applying non-invasive ventilation in the treatment of acute and chronic respiratory failure. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is now commonly used in the treatment of patients who have problems with oxygenation but not ventilation on acute respiratory wards. ⋯ The suggestions for monitoring these patients will be examined and the potential hazards will be identified. This will be considered in relation to the evolution of non-invasive respiratory care units and the establishment of an acute respiratory care unit (ARCU).
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Jane told Angela White, a paediatric staff nurse, that she was being abused by her father, but did not want anyone to be told. Jane was 14 years old, intelligent and mature for her age. What is the law?
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Two innovations in health care, NHS Direct and walk-in clinics, both designed to improve patient access, have been introduced by the Government. NHS Direct was one of the first NHS innovations introduced by the present Government and has been operating, on a restricted basis, for about 18 months. The Department of Health recently announced the setting up of more direct access clinics run by nurses, to which any person can go for assistance and advice on health care. This article considers the legal implications of these innovations.
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This article looks at the referral of a patient (Mr H) for parenteral nutrition and the subsequent insertion of a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) by the nutrition nurse (NN). It explores the issues directly related to the PICC insertion including the route of intravenous access, the ability of the NN to insert the PICC, preparation, communication and consent, and prevention of the mechanical and septic complications of insertion. ⋯ Mr H was satisfied with his care, offering positive feedback at follow-up visits to clinic. Critical analysis of the case study also revealed implications for further development of the role of the NN in ordering the check X-ray and the development of evidence-based standards and guidelines related to this procedure.