ORL-head and neck nursing : official journal of the Society of Otorhinolaryngology and Head-Neck Nurses
-
Nurses caring for patients who have otorhinolaryngic conditions undergoing medical and surgical treatments find that their patient populations are becoming older and sicker. These patients are more likely to develop delirium, often superimposed on depression or dementia. ⋯ This paper reviews the evaluation and management of delirium, dementia, and depression in hospitalized elders, focusing on a new resource, the evidence-based Mental Health Toolkit, developed by the National Conference of Gerontological Nurse Practitioners (NCGNP). The paper further provides material for a structured journal club activity, including a common ORL clinical scenario and learning objectives, as well as discussion questions and answers.
-
This paper describes quality improvement projects by three different multidisciplinary groups. The combined work from these groups addresses the staff's ability to provide safe, efficient, and expedient airway care during transport away from their home-base inpatient unit for patients who have a tracheostomy or a laryngectomy. The convened multidisciplinary project groups developed airway management algorithms, a "Go Kit," tracheostomy supply caddies, and a transportation communication check list. This paper further describes associated staff education with revised policies and procedures (DHMC Clinical Operations Policy Library 2005; 2006; 2007).
-
Editorial Biography Historical Article
The history of ORL-Head and Neck Nursing.