Axone (Dartmouth, N.S.)
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Axone (Dartmouth, N.S.) · Mar 1997
Immobilizing the cervical spine using a collar. Complications and nursing management.
Using a collar to immobilize the cervical spine is a standard health care intervention for patients with cervical spine injuries. Although there is little research into the nature and extent of possible iatrogenic complications resulting from this intervention, anecdotal information suggests that prolonged use a cervical collar may case skin ulcers and infections. Further, the stabilizing effect of a cervical collar may impart a false sense of security as it permits fine flexion and extension movements. ⋯ As a first step to examining the problem, the author surveyed trauma and neuroscience centres throughout Canada to determine: what immobilization devices are currently used; patient problems associated with these devices; nursing care interventions employed including hygiene and transfer techniques; and the outcomes of these interventions. The findings describe the relative efficacy of different products and nursing interventions as reported by the surveyed groups. Further, the findings offer direction for future research that will quantitatively investigate the patient care outcomes associated with specific interventions.
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Extensive study of the brain has resulted in the development of interventions to augment and preserve function. However, there exists a phenomenon that affects the vital brain centres including speech and memory the control of vital functions, and the immune system. What has this power? Humour. ⋯ It will look at using humour as an adjunct to pain control and an augment to the efficacy of treatment. Nurses will learn what constitutes therapeutic humour, and the pathways to humour. Participants will come away with a repertoire of strategies to incorporate humour in neurosciences nursing care infusing it with joy.