Journal of trauma nursing : the official journal of the Society of Trauma Nurses
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Comparative Study
Peripheral intravenous catheters started in prehospital and emergency department settings.
The purpose of this study was to determine the rates of phlebitis in trauma patients according to where the peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) was inserted in a prehospital setting or in an emergency department setting. Variables investigated also included where the catheter was anatomically placed, the gauge of the catheter, and the patients' Injury Severity Score. The overall phlebitis rate was 5.79%. ⋯ In addition, no variables predicted phlebitis no matter where the PIVC was started when a regression analysis was conducted. Even though the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests removing the PIVC within 48 hours if placed under emergency situations, the phlebitis rates of trauma patients in this study meet the benchmark of best practice. Perhaps removing the PIVC within 48 hours of placement should be reconsidered.
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Domestic violence is a nationwide public health issue. It affects people from all walks of life and every age group. Domestic violence is on the rise in Hillsborough County, Florida, up by 2.5% from 2004 to 2005. The Governor's Domestic Violence Task Force suggests that domestic violence is seriously underreported. Nursing assessments routinely require screening for domestic violence, placing nurses in a unique position to screen and report because they are often the first contacts of victims. The purpose of this study was to discover barriers nurses face in relation to mandatory reporting of domestic violence. ⋯ Nurses who have personally experienced domestic violence are more likely to report. Reporting laws are intended as guidelines for nurses. An effort should be made to have universal definitions and terms across the United States.
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Nursing documentation for trauma resuscitation has improved significantly at our level I trauma center because of the introduction of our Emergency Nurse Documentation Improvement Tool (END-IT). The END-IT system was implemented as a performance improvement model and utilizes existing computer software. ⋯ The feedback is provided in written form and uses peer mentoring to improve accountability in documentation. The program has been successful and has decreased documentation omissions and mistakes by 21%.
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Truma surgery today is facing a number of significant challenges that offer a stimulus for growth and evolution of tl practice. To successfully face these challenges, reexamination of the discipline, the current practice models for its providers, and the definition/scope of the specialty will be necessary. Further development and application of the cute care surgery model may represent the future direction for trauma care practitioners.
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This study describes current trauma nursing education requirements and nursing perception for additional pediatric trauma education. A web-based survey was electronically distributed to members of Society of Trauma Nurses. ⋯ Strong support exists for the development of an additional pediatric trauma course with a skills station. Basic concepts of primary/secondary survey, airway management, and fluid management for hypovolemic shock should be a high priority within this curriculum.