Journal of trauma nursing : the official journal of the Society of Trauma Nurses
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Comparative Study
Morphine versus fentanyl for pain due to traumatic injury in the emergency department.
The analgesic response and safety of intravenous morphine versus fentanyl for adult trauma patients who presented to the emergency department (ED) were evaluated. Median pain reduction on the numeric rating scale (0-10; 0 = no pain and 10 = worst possible pain) after opioid administration was similar between the groups (2 vs 2; P = .67). ⋯ There were no significant differences in drug-induced adverse effects between groups. Fentanyl produced a similar but more rapid analgesic response compared with morphine in trauma patients.
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Distracted driving, a significant public safety issue, is typically categorized as cell phone use and texting. The increase of distracted driving behavior (DDB) has resulted in an increase in injury and death. The purpose of this study was to identify the frequency and perception of DDB in adults. ⋯ Moreover, these results indicated that people fail to perceive the dangers inherent in distracted driving. Prevention and outreach education should not be limited to texting and cell phone use but should target all forms of DDB. The age group 18-34 years should be the primary target in the adult population.
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The purpose of this project was to develop and implement a consistent process for (1) screening adolescents by history for alcohol and substance abuse and (2) providing a motivational interview for change and appropriate referrals as needed. In the 18 months since we implemented the program, 534 patients were eligible for screening. Of these, 442 actually underwent screening and of these, 32 screened positive, thus receiving a brief intervention by social work and referral for further treatment. Use of the electronic medical record was key to the implementation and sustainability of this project.
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Firearm-related injuries are a public health issue in the United States. In rural Pennsylvania, it is a familiar way of life to have a gun or guns in the home. ⋯ Head Start families were surveyed regarding gun safety habits before and after safety educational activities. A noteworthy number of families reported changing behaviors regarding better safety habits for storing and use of firearms in the home postsurvey.
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Because of multiple changes in the health care environment, the use of services of physician assistants (PAs) and nurse practitioners (NPs) in trauma and critical care has expanded. Appropriate training and ongoing professional development for these providers are essential to optimize clinical outcomes. This study offers a baseline assessment of the academic and professional needs of the contemporary trauma PAs/NPs in the United States. ⋯ Financial restrictions may pose an additional impediment to academic development. Therefore, resource-efficient opportunities should be a prime consideration for advanced practitioners education, especially since half of the reported workforce has 3 years or less experience. The Eastern Association of Trauma and other organizations can provide an ideal venue for mentorship, academic development, and networking that is vital to PA/NP professional development and, ultimately, quality patient care.