"A Case of Bad Blood"

As nurses working in critical care, transfusing blood products is a common role we perform. While blood product transfusion reactions come in many forms, a distinct type of blood product transfusion reaction known as TRALI is a rare but life-threatening condition that we must be aware of because it is the leading cause of transfusion-related mortality described in the range of 40-60%. The true incidence of TRALI is difficult to estimate not only because cases of TRALI are underreported but also because of previous disagreements among clinicians as to which cases meet the criteria for this diagnosis. Read More

Which certification are you using, AANP or ANCC?

I've read a lot of posts on here comparing the exams. But what about the organizations? Does one organization do more for NPs than the other? Which one are you guys taking? Read More

[Toon] I'm All Ears

Are you the person who everyone seems to flock to with their problems or when they just want to talk? That's probably because you are a good listener. It is a wonderful trait to be labeled as a good listener, but sometimes people just share too much. What are some stories you have heard about but would just rather forget? Read More

What's considered "Job-Hopping" in nursing?

Would you say that nursing has a high tolerance for Job-Hopping? Is there a higher acceptance of this when it comes to new grad nurses, as they are 'finding their niche'?? Read More

Those who work in clinics who serve low income patients...

I start a new job tomorrow in a clinic who serves majority low income patients and adults and children on medicaid, uninsured and under insured patients. What do you like about it? Dislike? What is a typical day like? Do you feel you are making a difference? Is there high staff turnover? Read More

Measles, Mumps, Rubella... Forgotten but NOT Gone

To immunize or not to immunize... that is the question. When I was growing up, there really wasn't any controversy - when we were in certain grades, we were all lined up at school and the public health nurse either gave us a shot in the arm or a little pink drop of sugary liquid on a plastic spoon. I have a nice, circular scar on each of my upper arms just below my shoulders that signify my immunization against smallpox, the only disease to have been declared eradicated from the Earth. When my children were small they each were given their shots according to the vaccination schedule of the time. It's what we did. Then came Andrew Wakefield. Read More

Are 24-Hour Open Visitation Policies a Bad Idea?

Numerous hospitals across the US are eliminating visiting hours altogether, and instead, choosing to implement 24-hour open visitation policies. Nowhere in most healthcare settings has this trend been more acutely felt than the intensive care unit (ICU). Are 24-hour open visitation policies a bad idea? I think so. Read More

What "bad habits" are LTC nurses known for?

A brand-new DON who previously worked in an acute care setting interviewed me and said that she would rather hire a new grad so that she can "train them how I want them" and that LTC nurses usually "have a lot of bad habits". WHY did she generalize like that and WHAT bad habits might she have been talking about?! Read More

Counterpulsation. What kind of counter is that?

Counterpulation is life saving treatment for the sick and failing weak heart. The use of the intra-aortic balloon pump in the ICU on the critically ill patient has saved many lives. How does this work? Why does this work? Who thought of this crazy idea? Timing is everything but it isn't the time on the clock you are concerned with.

The intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) was introduced the in the late 1960s by Dr. Adrian Kantrowitz as a simple yet effective device to increase coronary perfusion. The IABP is a balloon that... Read More

Networking in Nursing to Achieve Results

Did you know that almost 70 percent of all job openings are not openly advertised? Most positions are filled through word of mouth, and the individuals who know how to effectively network are often hired into these roles. Networking is the practice of cultivating and maintaining connections with a circle of people who can render assistance, boost your professional prospects, share their valuable knowledge and 'put in a good word' for you. Read More

First NP job as hospice

I was curious how people felt about getting a first job in hospice. I may have the opportunity to work hospice doing admissions as an NP which I would enjoy, but I'm worried it might limit future employment opportunities because it's hospice. Is that a valid concern? Read More