Most Popular Articles

Evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and research: A visual model

Grys, Crystal A.

Nursing. 52(11):47-49, November 2022.

Understanding the key similarities and differences between quality improvement, evidence-based practice, and research can help improve nursing practice. This article presents visual models to illustrate the relationship between these processes.

Cannabis dabbing: An emerging trend

Mullins, Mary Frances

Nursing. 51(5):46-50, May 2021.

Cannabis dabbing is the recreational use of extremely concentrated tetrahydrocannabinol, the main psychotropic cannabinoid derived from the marijuana plant. In this article, the author details the significant health and legal risks associated with dabbing and discusses how nurses can educate patients.

Wound Care 101

Cox, Jill

Nursing. 49(10):32-39, October 2019.

The clinical nurse may be the first caregiver to assess changes in a patient's skin and initiate wound care. This article provides practical guidelines that any nurse can implement to support wound healing and improve patient care.

Nurses' role in addressing social determinants of health

Tiase, Victoria; Crookston, Cathryn Degraff; Schoenbaum, Anna; More

Nursing. 52(4):32-37, April 2022.

This article discusses the tools to screen for social determinants of health (SDOH) and key considerations for nurses and nurse leaders to advance the integration of SDOH information into their workflows.

Anorexia nervosa in adolescents: An overview

Peterson, Kathleen; Fuller, Rebecca

Nursing. 49(10):24-30, October 2019.

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is an eating disorder that is difficult to treat, and relapse is common. Here, explore management strategies and nursing interventions for adolescents diagnosed with AN.

The basics of mechanical ventilation in adults

Pruit, Bill

Nursing. 53(3):27-35, March 2023.

This article reviews the basics of MV, describes how mechanical ventilators operate, and discusses mechanical ventilator management.

Top 10 tips for coping with short staffing

Laskowski-Jones, Linda; Toulson, Karen

Nursing. 37:9, Fall 2007.

Everyone faces short staffing from time to time. Here are some practical tips to help you cope.

Understanding parkinsonisms

Rank, Wendi

Nursing. 51(9):22-27, September 2021.

Parkinsonism describes a group of neurologic disorders associated with signs and symptoms similar to Parkinson disease. This article focuses on four types of parkinsonism: Lewy body dementia, multiple system atrophy, progressive supranuclear palsy, and corticobasal degeneration.

Assessing mental health in vulnerable adolescents

Farley, Holly R.

Nursing. 50(10):48-53, October 2020.

In recent years, a dramatic shift in risks and behaviors threatens adolescents' mental well-being more than ever before. This article explores how nurses in any practice setting can identify adolescents at risk for mental health issues and intervene effectively.

Systemic effects of excessive alcohol consumption

Pullen, Richard L. Jr.; Hammond, Lori; Harris, Shonna

Nursing. 53(4):29-36, April 2023.

This article presents priority nursing assessments and interventions that address the multicellular assault of excessive alcohol consumption on bodily organs and the impact on the patient's quality of life.

Reminiscence therapy: Finding meaning in memories

Klever, Sandy

Nursing. 43(4):36-37, April 2013.

When approaching death, many people want to put their lives in perspective. By encouraging patients to talk about their past, you can improve their self-esteem and help them achieve a sense of fulfillment.

Artificial intelligence: Essentials for nursing

McGrow, Kathleen

Nursing. 49(9):46-49, September 2019.

This overview of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare settings examines basic AI concepts and the role of nurses using this cutting-edge technology.

12-lead ECGs part II: Identifying common abnormalities

Goldich, Guy

Nursing. 44(9):30-36, September 2014.

Nurses who can independently interpret a 12-lead ECG can anticipate and prepare for emergency care their patients may need. Review this practical guide to recognizing abnormal ECGs, which builds on last month's article about assessing normal findings.

Code blue: Do you know what to do?

Jackson, Janet E.; Grugan, Amy S.

Nursing. 45(5):34-39, May 2015.

Although nurses in hospitals are required to have basic life support training, they may have few opportunities to practice these skills before needing to perform them in a crisis. Make sure your skills are current by reviewing appropriate actions and interventions nurses and other clinicians must perform during a code blue.

Advancing the profession: The clinical nurse educator

Brennan, Jean; Olson, Evelyn Louise

Nursing. 48(10):53-54, October 2018.

Emphasizing required skills, knowledge, and education, this article describes the role of clinical nurse educators (CNEs) and the best practices CNEs can use to optimize education for nurses.

Case management: An overview for nurses

Armold, Sarah

Nursing. 49(9):43-45, September 2019.

Case management offers an exciting opportunity for nurses as they decide how best to serve their patients. This article discusses the role of case managers in the healthcare setting.

Asthma management updates

Galante, Christine M.

Nursing. 52(2):25-34, February 2022.

This article discusses recent updates on the clinical management of asthma and outlines ways for nurses to engage patients in the management of their disease.

Increasing cultural competence with LGBTQ patients

Margolies, Liz; Brown, Carlton G.

Nursing. 49(6):34-40, June 2019.

Many nurses lack basic education about LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer) patient care. Review this article for insights and strategies that can help nurses recognize health disparities affecting LGBTQ patients, encourage patients to disclose sexual orientation and gender identity to healthcare professionals, and work with LGBTQ patients to improve outcomes.

Rapid response teams: What's the latest?

Jackson, Shirley A.

Nursing. 47(12):34-41, December 2017.

For nearly 25 years, rapid response teams (RRTs) have been assessing and managing patients who experience acute clinical deterioration. Update your knowledge about nurses' vital role in the team, a new role for families activating an RRT, and end-of-life concerns.

Chest X-ray interpretation: Not just black and white

Pezzotti, William

Nursing. 44(1):40-47, January 2014.

Is your patient's chest X-ray unremarkable, or does it show a life-threatening abnormality? Use this article to gain a basic understanding of chest X-ray interpretation to sharpen your assessment skills, promote patient safety, and optimize care.

Preventing in-patient falls: The nurse's pivotal role

Chu, Ruby Z.

Nursing. 47(3):24-30, March 2017.

Preventing falls requires a multidisciplinary approach to create a safe patient environment, including a fall prevention program and education for nurses. This article discusses practical, evidence-based interventions that nurses can implement to keep their patients safe.

Confronting barriers to improve healthcare literacy and cultural competency in disparate populations

Polster, Debra S.

Nursing. 48(12):28-33, December 2018.

Develop the evidence-based, culturally competent skills discussed here to cultivate positive patient- and family-centered nursing care.

Evidence-based safe practice guidelines for I.V. push medications

Shastay, Ann D.

Nursing. 46(10):38-44, October 2016.

To help keep patients safe and prevent medication errors, make sure you're following best practices for the preparation, labeling, and administration of I.V. push medications. These guidelines were developed at a major national summit of 56 experts in I.V. therapy.

Outpatient therapies for COVID-19

Boysel, Michelle; Vaflor, Christian; Sheridan, Dan

Nursing. 53(2):33-36, February 2023.

This article discusses new therapies developed to treat and prevent COVID-19 in qualifying patients.

Motivational interviewing: A journey to improve health

Droppa, Mandy; Lee, Heeyoung

Nursing. 44(3):40-45, March 2014.

Apply the motivational interviewing principles and communication skills discussed here to elicit patients' personal reasons for changing unhealthy behaviors, then reinforce their healthier choices.

Epidural analgesia: What nurses need to know

Sawhney, Mona

Nursing. 42(8):36-41, August 2012.

Refresh your knowledge of epidural analgesia and review current standards of care. This comprehensive overview covers safely administering epidural analgesia to manage certain types of acute and chronic pain, achieving optimal pain control, and identifying and managing adverse reactions or complications.

I.V. fluids What nurses need to know

Crawford, Ann; Harris, Helene

Nursing. 41(5):30-38, May 2011.

Refresh your knowledge about I.V. fluids, including how they act in the body and which ones to use (or avoid) in common clinical situations. This is the first in a series of articles on fluid and electrolyte balance.

Mental health in nursing: A student's perspective

Halsted, Candis; Hart, Virginia T.

Nursing. 51(1):52-55, January 2021.

Inspired by one author's personal experiences, this article explores mental health issues many nurses confront today.

An overview of penicillin allergies for nurses

Wrynn, Alexander F.

Nursing. 53(5):27-31, May 2023.

This article provides background information on penicillin allergies and serves as a guide to penicillin allergy management.

20 questions: Evidence-based practice or sacred cow?

Miller, Julie; Hayes, Denise Drummond; Carey, Katherine W.

Nursing. 45(8):46-55, August 2015.

Despite dramatic advances in healthcare research, many nurses continue to promote outdated nursing practices. Grounded in tradition rather than science, these “sacred cows” are ineffective, unnecessary, and sometimes dangerous. Read the results of a nationwide survey designed to test nurses' knowledge and beliefs about outdated nursing practices, then update your practice based on the best evidence available.

Implantable loop recorder detection for atrial fibrillation to prevent stroke in high-risk patients

Cadet, Myriam Jean; Ronca, Kathleen

Nursing. 53(5):43-45, May 2023.

This article discusses whether implantable loop recorders can prevent strokes in high-risk patients by detecting atrial fibrillation.

Parkinson disease: Enhance nursing knowledge

Vacca, Vincent M. Jr.

Nursing. 49(11):24-32, November 2019.

At present, Parkinson disease cannot be cured, but a correct diagnosis is important for determining treatment strategies and nursing interventions. This article provides an overview of this neurodegenerative disorder and offers up-to-date information for optimal nursing care and patient teaching.

Destigmatizing alcohol use disorder among nurses

Rathburn, Jill

Nursing. 52(7):23-29, July 2022.

The use of alcohol to cope with work-related stress is an increasing problem among nurses. This article discusses the issues and treatment obstacles affecting alcohol use disorder among nurses, and outlines compassionate, stigma-free paths forward.

Digital health: The next evolution of healthcare delivery

Grys, Crystal A.

Nursing. 52(10):40-43, October 2022.

Healthcare delivery models have evolved from fee-for-service to incentivized care like patient-centered medical homes and accountable care organizations. This article discusses the evolution of healthcare delivery models and presents a vision for digital health.

Choosing a support surface for pressure injury prevention and treatment

McNichol, Laurie; Mackey, Dianne; Watts, Carolyn; More

Nursing. 50(2):41-44, February 2020.

The authors discuss an evidence- and consensus-based support-surface algorithm designed to help clinicians choose the most appropriate support surface for preventing or treating pressure injuries.

Preventing and identifying hospital-acquired delirium

Volland, Jennifer; Fisher, Anna; Drexler, Diane

Nursing. 50(1):32-37, January 2020.

The authors discuss how to distinguish delirium from dementia and depression in hospitalized patients.

Stay out of court with proper documentation

Austin, Sally

Nursing. 41(4):24-29, April 2011.

Besides undermining patient safety, inaccurate or incomplete documentation can land you in court if you're ever charged with nursing negligence. Avoid legal problems by always following these practical, best-practice guidelines.

Preparing for the new nursing licensure exam: The next-generation NCLEX

Ignatavicius, Donna D.

Nursing. 51(5):34-41, May 2021.

The National Council of State Boards of Nursing is changing its licensure exam to focus on a clinical judgment model. This article describes the current National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX), the shift in focus from the nursing process to clinical judgment, and the intended emphasis of the next-generation NCLEX.

Evaluating competence and confidence using simulation technology

Kiernan, Llynne C.

Nursing. 48(10):45-52, October 2018.

To examine the role of simulation training in educating nurses and reducing clinical errors, the author describes a research project designed to determine the effectiveness of deliberate practice and simulation technology.

New Drugs 2019, part 1

Hussar, Daniel A.

Nursing. 49(2):28-36, February 2019.

This article reviews seven drugs recently approved by the FDA, including two antidiabetic medications, a new combination medication for patients with cystic fibrosis, and the first gene therapy that targets a disease caused by mutations in a specific gene.

Necrotizing fasciitis: A comprehensive review

Chen, Leon L.; Fasolka, Brian; Treacy, Caitlin

Nursing. 50(9):34-40, September 2020.

Necrotizing soft-tissue infections are rare but rapidly progressive, life-threatening bacterial infections with high morbidity and mortality. Focusing on necrotizing fasciitis (NF), the authors discuss NF classifications, clinical features, diagnostic approaches, evidence-based treatments, and nursing interventions.

Bringing home effective nursing care for the homeless

Gerber, Lois

Nursing. 43(3):32-38, March 2013.

Despite the obvious challenges, nurses can make a difference in the lives of these vulnerable patients. With a deeper understanding of their problems, nurses can provide support, offer resources, and perform other meaningful interventions.

Managing hypocalcemia in massive blood transfusion

Lim, Fidelindo; Chen, Leon L.; Borski, Daniel

Nursing. 47(5):26-32, May 2017.

Hypocalcemia, one of the most dangerous complications associated with massive blood transfusion, can lead to potentially fatal neurologic and cardiovascular dysfunction. The focus of this article is on the nurse's role in caring for patients who develop hypocalcemia related to massive blood transfusion.

Heart failure: An update for nurses

Vuckovic, Karen M.; Ryan, Catherine; Gomez, Yorman; More

Nursing. 53(6):18-27, June 2023.

Heart failure (HF) is a chronic syndrome that requires patients to manage signs and symptoms and adhere to a complex medication regimen. This article discusses updates in HF care related to a universal definition and new therapies, focusing on the four pillars of therapy for HF with reduced ejection fraction.

Recognizing normal pressure hydrocephalus in older adults

Smith, Carolyn E.

Nursing. 47(9):26-31, September 2017.

A telltale triad of clues—gait disturbance, cognitive impairment, and urinary incontinence—differentiates normal pressure hydrocephalus from other neurologic diseases affecting older adults. With early detection and treatment, dementia and other complications can be reversed in many patients.

Recognizing subtle signs and symptoms of pediatric cancer

Barbel, Paula; Peterson, Kathleen

Nursing. 45(4):30-37, April 2015.

Even though cancer is rare in children and adolescents, it's the leading cause of disease-related deaths among Americans ages 1 to 19. Refresh your knowledge of the elusive signs and symptoms of cancer because early diagnosis and treatment can save young lives.

Recognizing the face of dehydration

Collins, Magdalena; Claros, Edith

Nursing. 41(8):26-31, August 2011.

Older adults are especially prone to dehydration, a potentially fatal condition in these vulnerable patients. Be alert for the signs and symptoms, then intervene to improve your patients' hydration status and quench complications.

Caring for adults with impaired physical mobility

Crawford, Ann; Harris, Helene

Nursing. 46(12):36-41, December 2016.

Immobility and its complications can cause physical disability and emotional suffering. With appropriate assessment skills, early mobilization efforts, and proper prevention strategies, nurses can help patients avoid complications and optimize their quality of life.

The legalities of nursing documentation

Campos, Nikki K.

Nursing. :7-9, January 2010.

To meet the expectations of the public, nurses must fully understand the duties associated with their position as set forth by not only governing bodies, but also the institutional policies and procedures affecting their practice. One particular duty that deserves significant emphasis is the requirement of complete and accurate documentation related to patient care, which includes what's done to and for the patient and how particular decisions about care are made.

Clara Barton: Angel of the battlefield

Strickler, Jeff

Nursing. 48(3):43-45, March 2018.

In the second installment of a new series, learn about Clara Barton's inspiring contributions to nursing during the Civil War and her role as the founder of the American Red Cross.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Nursing care and considerations

Vacca, Vincent M. Jr.

Nursing. 50(6):32-39, June 2020.

Also called Lou Gehrig disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is always fatal, but treatment can help slow disease progression. Learn the etiology and pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and clinical management of ALS, and review nursing considerations for patients at the end of life.

Don't cross the line: Respecting professional boundaries

Hanna, Angela F.; Suplee, Patricia Dunphy

Nursing. 42(9):40-47, September 2012.

Simple boundary crossings such as doing a small favor for a patient can sometimes lead to more serious ethical transgressions. Update your understanding of acceptable professional boundaries so you know where to draw the line.

12-lead ECGs, part I: Recognizing normal findings

Goldich, Guy

Nursing. 44(8):28-34, August 2014.

Nurses who can independently interpret a 12-lead ECG can anticipate and prepare for emergency care their patients may need. Review the practical guide to normal ECGs presented here. Next month: Interpreting abnormal ECGs.

Reducing the risks of infiltration and extravasation

Rosenthal, Kelli

Nursing. 37:4,6-8, Fall 2007.

Follow our guide to prevent these painful and disabling conditions that can occur as complications of I.V. therapy.
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