Articles: adult.
-
Unplanned extubations (UEs) in adult Intensive Care Units (ICUs), have recently become an indicator of quality and safety of care. ⋯ For preventing UEs the surveillance of nursing staff is fundamental, if the staffing is adequate to the real workloads in ICU.
-
A definitive place exists for the CC in the emergency department to effectively manage and provide patient- and family-centered care and appropriately utilize institutional resources. This focused ED care coordination benefits the institution through avoidance of unnecessary admissions and their associated costs. It is also a victory for patients and families who achieve the health care services that they truly need, and they are a more satisfied group as they realize their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed. Moreover, the entire ED team benefits when the actions of the CC meet the standard of the "right care, right time, and right way."
-
Oral health is integrally linked to overall well-being. This article describes a research program focused on the contribution of poor oral health to systemic illness. Initial investigations examined factors related to streptococcal virulence that were important in dental caries and endocarditis and led to development of immunization strategies in animal models to reduce risk of endocarditis. ⋯ Currently a large randomized clinical trial is being launched to determine the optimal frequency of toothbrushing for critically ill patients receiving mechanical ventilation in an effort to maximize oral health benefits while minimizing systemic risks. The importance of collaboration and mentoring in building nursing science is discussed. Future directions for research also are explored.