AACN clinical issues
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AACN clinical issues · Apr 2005
Outcomes of an infection prevention project focusing on hand hygiene and isolation practices.
Nosocomial infections are a major health problem for hospitalized patients and their families. Since the 1800s, hand hygiene has been recognized as the single best method to prevent the spread of pathogens and nosocomial infections. Despite this fact, many healthcare workers do not adhere to hand hygiene policies. ⋯ Consumption of alcohol-based foam disinfectant doubled from baseline. Findings are consistent with other published studies. The project will continue with further reinforcement and education over the second year.
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AACN clinical issues · Jan 2005
ReviewProgram development: role of the clinical nurse specialist in implementing a fast-track postanesthesia care unit.
Advanced practice nurses are involved in many aspects of program development as part of their roles. This can involve such things as developing programs for staff and family education, organizing system-wide quality assurance programs, or implementing new care programs. ⋯ Although all advanced practice nurses can be involved in program development, the role of the Clinical Nurse Specialist lends itself to devoting dedicated services for implementing programmatic change in the clinical setting. This article describes the role of the Clinical Nurse Specialist in implementing an evidence-based, fast-track postanesthesia care unit.
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AACN clinical issues · Jan 2005
ReviewEnhancing presentation skills for the advanced practice nurse: strategies for success.
Professional speaking is a component of the professional practice role of the advanced practice nurse (APN). The skills to communicate effectively to one person or an audience of 100 provide the APN with the essential tools for implementing change, collaborating effectively, presenting information at professional meetings, or communicating the impact of clinical outcomes in the boardroom. Public speaking skills, a professional image, and improved communication can facilitate advancement along any career ladder. ⋯ Techniques to manage the anxiety produced when attempting to articulate your thoughts is essential for effective communication. Skills for enhancing the delivery of your message through effective body language, professional image, voice modulation, and use of audiovisual aids are addressed. Creative techniques for fielding questions are key in promoting a dynamic closure and provide consistent reinforcement of the key message content.
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AACN clinical issues · Oct 2004
ReviewHemodynamic assessment: the physiologic basis for turning data into clinical information.
Hemodynamic monitoring has become an integral component of the assessment of the critically ill. Any technology used for monitoring is a diagnostic tool and only as good as the provider interpreting the data. The article focuses on providing the practitioner the physiologic basis of the hemodynamic profile to cross the chasm of turning data into clinically useful information. Decision-making models are described to facilitate data synthesis and clinical intervention.
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Bedside evaluation of a patient's intravascular volume status is challenging, even for the seasoned practitioner. There is no single diagnostic test to determine whether a patient is hypovolemic, hypervolemic, or euvolemic. ⋯ Therefore, a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory studies, and other diagnostics are required to make a clinical judgment regarding volume status. Patients who demonstrate alterations in their volume status are likely to have electrolyte abnormalities as well, and assessment of serum electrolyte values and potential therapeutic interventions is a vital piece in caring for critically ill patients.