Journal of trauma nursing : the official journal of the Society of Trauma Nurses
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Childhood deaths are relatively uncommon but very stressful to both family members and health care providers. Bereavement programs are helpful in guiding and supporting the family into and through the bereavement process. Trauma nurses are vital members of the bereavement team. This article briefly describes and current literature on the subject of bereavement outlines the components of a comprehensive bereavement program and lists current challenges for nurses in this important area of nursing.
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The need for advanced practice nurses (APN) has expanded over the past several decades as a result of the changing healthcare environment. Increased patient acuity and decreased resident work hours have lead to a need for additional clinical expertise at the bedside. ⋯ To date little has been published regarding the role of the APN in Trauma Centers. This article outlines the wide variety of responsibilities and services provided by a select group of nurse practitioners who work in trauma centers throughout the United States.
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Massive transfusion in trauma presents a unique challenge to trauma center effectiveness. It requires the highest level of collaboration between multiple departments working together in a timed event and as such serves as a barometer of trauma program maturity and success. ⋯ The protocol should be revised frequently to reflect cutting edge research and continual improvements in blood banking. This article will review the status of massive transfusion in trauma, use of massive transfusion protocols and suggest quality improvement initiatives for blood use in trauma centers.