AANA journal
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In 2011 the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists initiated a Continued Professional Certification program that strongly suggests the search for alternatives. This article presents a thoughtful critique of the proposed professional competency program as well as alternatives that could be considered in a revision of the current program. Options discussed include a Continuous Professional Development program, a Simulation-Based Model, and a Practice-Based Model.
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Case Reports
Primary cesarean delivery results in emergency hysterectomy due to placenta accreta: a case study.
Placenta accreta is a major cause of obstetric hemorrhage, a situation that remains the most significant cause of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. It is generally recognized that a previous cesarean delivery increases the risk of placenta accreta. ⋯ In 2010, The Joint Commission released a sentinel event alert regarding the prevention of maternal death, which recommended the adoption of protocols to treat postpartum hemorrhage. This case study demonstrates the success of quickly initiating protocol interventions necessary to prevent disseminated intravascular coagulation and maternal mortality, while reviewing current literature on risk identification, management, and treatment of obstetric hemorrhage resulting from placenta accreta.
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The goal of this literature review is to provide the anesthesia practitioner with the skill set to detect and prepare for a difficult pediatric airway. The authors have reviewed and compiled information on some of the most common conditions that can predispose pediatric patients to a difficulty airway, such as macroglossia, mandibular hypoplasia, micrognathia, cervical instability, limited cervical movement, maxillary and midfacial hypoplasia, and cleft palate. This article provides an overview of preoperative assessment techniques, normal pediatric airway anatomy, and respiratory physiology. An emphasis is placed on some common syndromes and their related anatomical abnormalities that can compromise the airway, as well as anesthetic approaches recommended to successfully secure a potentially difficult airway.
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Noise is a health hazard and a source of stress, and it impairs concentration and communication. Since 1960, hospital noise levels have risen around the world. Nowhere in the healthcare setting is noise more prevalent than in the operating room (OR). ⋯ The World Health Organization has recognized environmental noise as harmful pollution that causesadverse effects on health. Although noise in the OR is unavoidable, music is a choice. The purpose of this literature review is to provide further insight into the ramifications of the presence of music in the OR, evaluate its appropriateness in relation to care and safety for the patient and staff, and provide information for future research.
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Comparative Study
Educational programs for students: what can China learn from the United States, the United Kingdom, and France?
Designed to explore a suitable way to develop nurse anesthetist education in China, this article introduces 3 educational models for nurse anesthesia education in 3 countries, which all are members of the International Federation of Nurse Anesthetists (IFNA). In addition, this article carries out the comparison from 4 areas: program admission requirements; structure and length; content; and delivery mode. Healthcare leaders in China can learn from the United States, France, and the United Kingdom regarding how to develop nurse anesthesia educational programs and how to design a standardized nurse anesthesia educational program, which is consistent with the national need.