AANA journal
-
Recent clinical studies using the bispectral index monitor to predict movement, measure the level of consciousness, and reduce the cost of anesthesia have renewed interest in the use of a monitor to assess the effects of anesthetics on the brain. In 1937, Gibbs described electroencephalographic changes during the administration of general anesthetics. ⋯ The purpose of this article is to provide a historical perspective of the development and use of the processed electroencephalographic monitor. This article also describes studies of clinical usefulness of the bispectral index monitoring device in anesthesia practice today.
-
Review
AANA journal course: update for nurse anesthetists--refrigerated anesthesia-related medications.
Medications have strength, expiration date, and storage conditions printed on the medication bottle or package. Some anesthesia medications require refrigeration to maintain the stated strength and safety until the expiration date. These medications may expire in days rather than years when left at room temperature in anesthesia carts or emergency boxes. The following AANA Journal course discusses anesthesia-related medications that require refrigeration and how long potency and safety is maintained out of the refrigerator and provides a chart for future referral.
-
Laryngoscope handles do not usually come in direct contact with the patient's mucous membranes. Consequently, routine disinfection of laryngoscope handles is not currently standard practice unless gross contamination is clearly evident. Recent reports indicate that apparently clean handles may be contaminated with blood or body fluids. ⋯ Organisms were categorized as contaminants or opportunistic pathogens. The presence of opportunistic pathogens places anesthesia providers and patients at risk of nosocomial infections. Based on the recommendations of the 1997 American Association of Nurse Anesthetists' Infection Control Guide and the results of the present study, institutional guidelines should be established for the use of disposable laryngoscope covers, high-level (destroying all microorganisms with the exception of high numbers of bacterial spores) disinfection, or sterilization of laryngoscope equipment between each patient use.