Journal of intravenous nursing : the official publication of the Intravenous Nurses Society
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Review
The immune system and intravenous administration of immune globulin. Part I, The immune system.
Interest in the immune response has greatly increased, mostly because of the discovery of the AIDS virus. An understanding of the basic function of the normal human immune system is vital knowledge for today's nurse. Part 1 of this article describes normal immune response as well as abnormal immune system function, and correlates this information with the clinical picture of the patient.
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Controlling patients' pain is no longer a luxury in health care. Studies have shown that pain can cause physical harm. A better understanding of the pain pathway has enabled health care professionals to control pain more effectively. ⋯ Fewer side effects and decreased narcotic use are among the advantages demonstrated with PCA and intraspinal infusions. Side effects can be minimized and complications reduced when nursing can intervene during narcotic infusions. The role of the intravenous nurse is expanding into the area of pain management as educator and clinical practitioner.