Journal of infusion nursing : the official publication of the Infusion Nurses Society
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Albumin plays an important role in maintaining homeostasis within the body and depends on the cell membrane and the transport mechanism, including diffusion, osmosis, filtration, and active transport. The dissolved proteins, which are the only substances that do not penetrate the pores of the capillary membrane, are responsible for the osmotic pressure of the capillary membrane. Approximately 75% of the total colloid osmotic pressure is related to albumin.
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Ethical dilemmas frequently occur when nurses care for patients with a history of intravenous substance abuse who are hospitalized on medical-surgical units. This article discusses the recent findings on substance abuse, including its impact on the brain, effects on society and healthcare, available treatment options, and medical complications related to substance abuse. ⋯ The purpose of this article is to reduce nurses' feelings of frustration and stress in order to improve their morale. Finally, this particular contemporary ethical issue will be viewed as if perceived by Florence Nightingale.
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This review focuses on available prospective data comparing standard methods of catheter securement with a securement device. The data demonstrate that the device, specifically engineered for catheter securement, significantly reduces overall catheter-associated complications. This appears to be the result of improved securement and reduced catheter motion. These studies make the authors question their current practice of securing catheters with tape and suture when better alternatives are available.