Pediatric nursing
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Cough is the natural defense mechanism for protection of the respiratory tract. It is used to mobilize and remove secretions from the respiratory tree, moving them from the peripheral to the central airways. ⋯ Understanding airway physiology and utilizing the equal pressure point and the collateral ventilation system between airways will make airway clearance activities most effective. Finding a match between an effective airway clearance method that uses cough effectively and a patient's preference is the challenge for the care provider.
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The field of pediatric immunizations is growing and changing as new vaccines are becoming available and previous diseases are being eradicated. Due to the complexity and evolution of vaccine-preventable diseases, pediatric health care providers must routinely review the current childhood immunization recommendations. ⋯ Vaccine administration guidelines and techniques are presented in table format. An overview of new vaccine research and development and a discussion of vaccine safety and immunization resources are also included.
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Firearms in the home are an increasing concern for parents and health professionals alike. A number of professional groups have begun to speak out about firearm safety and children. ⋯ The SPN (1998) says that "[p]ediatric nurses, employed in a variety of settings, have the opportunity to educate parents and children about gun violence and prevention of firearm injuries." Nurses and other professionals can easily access information and strategies to address firearm safety with families. See Table 1 for a list of resources that are available online.
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A qualitative, descriptive design was used to examine factors that influence pediatric nurses' pain management practices. Staff nurses from one pediatric unit (N = 16) at a community-based hospital attended from one to six discussion groups. Detailed content analysis of transcripts from each discussion group was conducted. ⋯ Staff attendance and commitment to participation in this research was commendable considering the external pressures they felt and expressed about job insecurity and poor unit morale. It seemed that their commitment to attend and participate was, in part, based on the value they placed upon clinical skills and knowledge. The opportunity to talk about the effects of organizational change, both individually and collectively, on their work environment was also considered beneficial.