By Tracy Jackson RN.
Childhood lead poisoning
Lead is a toxin that is harmful to young children. Primary prevention for lead awareness is education, which include risk assessment. Healthy People 2010 have established the goal of elimating lead poisoning by 2010 (Healthy People, 2008). Lead poisoning has been linked to autism and cognitive delayed development. Pregnant women or any women who are planning a pregnancy should know the facts surrounding lead poisoning (Safe babies, 2008). Lead awareness information should be included in that new mother’s visit, which should include patient teaching information to prevent expose to lead.
Risk assessments are surveys used to establish your child’s level of exposure to lead (EPA, 2008). The first question usually starts with your home—how old is it? Was the house built before 1974? In the State of Illinois, each local health department has a lead prevention program whereas funds are allocated for lead awareness. Other successful events are health fairs, block parties, run, walk and bike for lead prevention that are held in many communities around the State of Illinois (IDPH, 2008).
Secondary prevention emphasis screening used to identify potential exposure to lead poisoning. The screening is easy to remember, every child starting at birth until 6 years old must receive a yearly screening. The toxic number to remember is 10mcg. Anything over 10mcg will requires treatment according to EPA (EPA, 2008) Starting today, families with young children from birth to 6 years old should not allow shoes that are worn in the public to enter your home. Place a shoe rack at the front door and kindly request all guests to remove their shoes when entering your home. The earth soil carries an enough lead to cause potential harm to all young children (EPA, 2008).
Tertiary prevention for lead awareness consists of treatment. The first line of treatment is to reduce exposure and incorporate foods that are high in calcium and iron into the diet (Safe babies, 2008). Treatment for lead poisoning is a chelating agent which is an oral drug that binds to lead and mercury, and is given every eight hours for five days and then every twelve hours for two more weeks (APA, 2008).
Reference:
AAP parenting corner: Q&A lead screening. Retrieved June 20, 2008, from American Academy of Pediatrics Web site: http://www.aap.org.
Illinois childhood lead poisoning prevention program. Retrieved June 20, 2008, from Illinois Department of Public Health Web site: http://idph.state.il.us/.
Lead awareness program. Retrieved June 20, 2008, from The United States Environmental Protection Agency Web site: http://www.epa.gov.
Written by Tracy Jackson RN with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Nurses Know! - Facts about Violence against Women
By: Gertrude Ajaere RN.
VIOLENCE AND ABUSE OF WOMEN.
Violence against women affects approximately 2 to 4 million women each year. Violence is the major cause of injuries to all women between the ages of 15 and 44 years. Violence has become a major health issue. The extent of abuse of women is not known. It is underreported in part because of threats, fear, and feelings of guilt. Mounting evidence is showing that abuse of women may be the most common form of family violence during the prenatal period. An estimated 10% to 50% of women in the world experiences assault by their male partner (Mary Jo Clark 2008).
Every woman is at risk, and most women experience more than one episode of violence. According to the American medical Association, some group of women are at higher risk for abuse, such as women who are single, separated, divorced, btween the ages of 17 and 28 years, those who abuse alcohol or drugs, pregnant women and women that has jealous partners. The most dangerous time for abused women is when they leave abusive relationships (Delorey & Wolf, 2002).
Different types of abuse exist including, slapping, shoving, kicking, assault with a weapon, restraining, and hitting. Some women suffer emotional abuse in the form of isolation, deprivation, intimidation, humiliation and critism. Of course sexual abuse is reported frequently in many clinics and hospitals, such as forced sexual act and sexual degradation.
Nurses working in the community can identify women who are experiencing any form of abuse using their skills in the area of assessment, therapeutic communication, and help in counseling, advocating for them, making referrals to promote the wellbeing and minimize the effects of violence and abuse (Mary Jo Clark 2008). The nurse needs to develop an awareness of how a woman’s cultural belief affects her response to abuse to avoid going against her wish and to advocate for her appropriately. Implementation of primary intervention will aid in decreasing the occurrence women abuse, by identifying abused women and increasing an awareness of the problem of violence and abuse at community level. Secondary intervention includes assessing the abused women and implementing an appropriate plan of care. The nurse also needs to implement tertiary care that includes referral and provision of continuous support to them. ReferencesMary Jo Clark (2008). Community health nursing, p 435-436.Delorey, C., & Wolf, K (2002). Sexual violence & Older Women, p 173-179.
Written by Gertrude Ajaere RN with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN.
VIOLENCE AND ABUSE OF WOMEN.
Violence against women affects approximately 2 to 4 million women each year. Violence is the major cause of injuries to all women between the ages of 15 and 44 years. Violence has become a major health issue. The extent of abuse of women is not known. It is underreported in part because of threats, fear, and feelings of guilt. Mounting evidence is showing that abuse of women may be the most common form of family violence during the prenatal period. An estimated 10% to 50% of women in the world experiences assault by their male partner (Mary Jo Clark 2008).
Every woman is at risk, and most women experience more than one episode of violence. According to the American medical Association, some group of women are at higher risk for abuse, such as women who are single, separated, divorced, btween the ages of 17 and 28 years, those who abuse alcohol or drugs, pregnant women and women that has jealous partners. The most dangerous time for abused women is when they leave abusive relationships (Delorey & Wolf, 2002).
Different types of abuse exist including, slapping, shoving, kicking, assault with a weapon, restraining, and hitting. Some women suffer emotional abuse in the form of isolation, deprivation, intimidation, humiliation and critism. Of course sexual abuse is reported frequently in many clinics and hospitals, such as forced sexual act and sexual degradation.
Nurses working in the community can identify women who are experiencing any form of abuse using their skills in the area of assessment, therapeutic communication, and help in counseling, advocating for them, making referrals to promote the wellbeing and minimize the effects of violence and abuse (Mary Jo Clark 2008). The nurse needs to develop an awareness of how a woman’s cultural belief affects her response to abuse to avoid going against her wish and to advocate for her appropriately. Implementation of primary intervention will aid in decreasing the occurrence women abuse, by identifying abused women and increasing an awareness of the problem of violence and abuse at community level. Secondary intervention includes assessing the abused women and implementing an appropriate plan of care. The nurse also needs to implement tertiary care that includes referral and provision of continuous support to them. ReferencesMary Jo Clark (2008). Community health nursing, p 435-436.Delorey, C., & Wolf, K (2002). Sexual violence & Older Women, p 173-179.
Written by Gertrude Ajaere RN with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN.
Nurses Know! - Cervical Cancer Facts
By Ruth Young RN.
Cervical Cancer
What is cervical cancer? According to the National Cancer Institute it is cancer that forms in the tissues of the cervix which is the organ that connects the uterus to the vagina. This topic is of interest to me because Cervical Cancer is one that is preventable and treatable if detected early on, but there are many who are still unaware of how it is caused. This disease is caused by many factors, but the most common cause is an infection called Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
There are over 100 strains of this virus and of the 100 strains; about 60 are those which causes warts on hands and feet. The other 40 affect the mucosal area, such as the anal and genital area. While most women’s bodies would be able to rid them of HPV, some aren’t able to, and it may develop into Cancer. This is why it of great importance to have an annual pap smear performed if you’re sexually active. According to the American Cancer Society some other risks factors for HPV are:
1. Immunosuppression (ex. HIV ,STD's)
2. Family history
3. Smoker
4. Lower socioeconomic status
5. Multiple pregnancies
Cervical cancer is usually slow growing and may not present any symptoms, but can be found with regular Papanicolaou smear exams (Pap smear). During the pap smear exam, some of the cells are scrapped from the cervix and sent off to the lab to be examined under the microscope, where they’re looking for any cell changes. According to the National Cancer Institute some signs and symptoms are moderate pain during intercourse, vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain and unusual vaginal discharge.
Primary prevention would include abstinence, education on barrier contraceptive methods (Clark, 452), and vaccination. For secondary prevention, screening such as Pap smear and HPV tests which would help detect if one is at risk for cervical cancer, and early detection is key. The HPV tests looks for the virus that can cause these abnormal cell changes. (CDC) Tertiary prevention should focus on prevention of recurrence of the disease through re-infection.
Written by Ruth Young RN with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN.
Cervical Cancer
What is cervical cancer? According to the National Cancer Institute it is cancer that forms in the tissues of the cervix which is the organ that connects the uterus to the vagina. This topic is of interest to me because Cervical Cancer is one that is preventable and treatable if detected early on, but there are many who are still unaware of how it is caused. This disease is caused by many factors, but the most common cause is an infection called Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
There are over 100 strains of this virus and of the 100 strains; about 60 are those which causes warts on hands and feet. The other 40 affect the mucosal area, such as the anal and genital area. While most women’s bodies would be able to rid them of HPV, some aren’t able to, and it may develop into Cancer. This is why it of great importance to have an annual pap smear performed if you’re sexually active. According to the American Cancer Society some other risks factors for HPV are:
1. Immunosuppression (ex. HIV ,STD's)
2. Family history
3. Smoker
4. Lower socioeconomic status
5. Multiple pregnancies
Cervical cancer is usually slow growing and may not present any symptoms, but can be found with regular Papanicolaou smear exams (Pap smear). During the pap smear exam, some of the cells are scrapped from the cervix and sent off to the lab to be examined under the microscope, where they’re looking for any cell changes. According to the National Cancer Institute some signs and symptoms are moderate pain during intercourse, vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain and unusual vaginal discharge.
Primary prevention would include abstinence, education on barrier contraceptive methods (Clark, 452), and vaccination. For secondary prevention, screening such as Pap smear and HPV tests which would help detect if one is at risk for cervical cancer, and early detection is key. The HPV tests looks for the virus that can cause these abnormal cell changes. (CDC) Tertiary prevention should focus on prevention of recurrence of the disease through re-infection.
Written by Ruth Young RN with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Nurses Know! - Complimentary and Alternative Treatments
By: Rosalind Anderson RN
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is the use of practices and products that are not considered part of conventional medicine in the United States. Biological therapies include herbs, vitamins, foods including dietary supplements and other natural substances (Pepa). With the increase of infomercials which boasts the benefits of these products, use of alternative medicine is on the rise.
This is especially important when assessing the medication history of elder patients. Although many herbal supplements are safe when used as recommended, the concern is that many elder patients may not tell their nurse, practitioners or physicians they are taking these medications (Pepa). Often times the reason for this is that elders feel that the supplements are not medications because they are “natural”. However the astute nurse should realize that these “all natural” supplements may have deleterious effects when combined with prescribed medications and address natural supplements or home remedies in the medication history assessment of their patient. Common prescription drugs taken by elders such as blood thinners, blood pressure medication, cyclosporins, digoxin, hypoglycemic agents, and antidepressants should not be taken with herbal supplements (Pepa).
The increased use of CAM by the elderly mandates that nurses maintain thorough communication and be knowledgeable about these supplements in order to provide proper care for the patient.
Reference:
Pepa, C. (2006). Alternative health modalities. In Mauk, K. (Eds.), Gerontological nursing: Competencies for care (pp 683-700). Sudbury, MA: Jones and Bartlett Publishers.
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is the use of practices and products that are not considered part of conventional medicine in the United States. Biological therapies include herbs, vitamins, foods including dietary supplements and other natural substances (Pepa). With the increase of infomercials which boasts the benefits of these products, use of alternative medicine is on the rise.
This is especially important when assessing the medication history of elder patients. Although many herbal supplements are safe when used as recommended, the concern is that many elder patients may not tell their nurse, practitioners or physicians they are taking these medications (Pepa). Often times the reason for this is that elders feel that the supplements are not medications because they are “natural”. However the astute nurse should realize that these “all natural” supplements may have deleterious effects when combined with prescribed medications and address natural supplements or home remedies in the medication history assessment of their patient. Common prescription drugs taken by elders such as blood thinners, blood pressure medication, cyclosporins, digoxin, hypoglycemic agents, and antidepressants should not be taken with herbal supplements (Pepa).
The increased use of CAM by the elderly mandates that nurses maintain thorough communication and be knowledgeable about these supplements in order to provide proper care for the patient.
Reference:
Pepa, C. (2006). Alternative health modalities. In Mauk, K. (Eds.), Gerontological nursing: Competencies for care (pp 683-700). Sudbury, MA: Jones and Bartlett Publishers.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Nurses Know! - Recognizing Depression in Older Adults
By: Lisa Whitney RN
Loss is painful whether it is a loss of independence, mobility, health, career, or someone you love. Grieving over these losses is normal, even if the feelings of sadness last for weeks or months. Losing all hope and joy, however, is not normal. It’s depression.
Untreated depression poses serious risks for older adults, including illness, alcohol and prescription drug abuse, a higher mortality rate, and even suicide.
Recognizing depression in the elderly can be difficult, since many people believe it is a normal part of the aging process. As we age, it is normal to experience sadness when facing changes in capabilities, or sorrow at the loss of loved ones, however, we also continue to feel happiness, joy, contentment, and other positive emotions.
It’s important to watch for the warning signs of depression and seek professional help when you recognize it.
Signs and symptoms of depression:
Notes: This blog post reflects the work of Lisa Whitney RN with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN and was completed as a class assignment. The information in this blog is for informational purposes only. Before beginning or changing a treatment or lifestyle regime you should consult your primary health care provider.
Loss is painful whether it is a loss of independence, mobility, health, career, or someone you love. Grieving over these losses is normal, even if the feelings of sadness last for weeks or months. Losing all hope and joy, however, is not normal. It’s depression.
Untreated depression poses serious risks for older adults, including illness, alcohol and prescription drug abuse, a higher mortality rate, and even suicide.
Recognizing depression in the elderly can be difficult, since many people believe it is a normal part of the aging process. As we age, it is normal to experience sadness when facing changes in capabilities, or sorrow at the loss of loved ones, however, we also continue to feel happiness, joy, contentment, and other positive emotions.
It’s important to watch for the warning signs of depression and seek professional help when you recognize it.
Signs and symptoms of depression:
- Unexplained or aggravated aches and pains
- Hopelessness
- Helplessness Anxiety and worries
- Loss of feeling of pleasure
- Slowed movement Irritability
- Memory problems
- Lack of interest in personal care (skipping meals, forgetting medications, neglecting personal hygiene)
Depression in the elderly has underlying causes and treatment is complex in that it involves consideration of the role of current disease, memory changes, various medications, and the status of the patient's support systems. Optimum results are achieved with a management approach that incorporates a system of collaborative care.
References
Ashok, R., & Md. (2004, June 1). Depression in the elderly. In Symposium on geriatric psychiatry (Postgraduate Medicine). Retrieved February 9, 2008, from The Practical Peer Reviewed for Primary Care Physicans: www.postgradmed.com.
Notes: This blog post reflects the work of Lisa Whitney RN with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN and was completed as a class assignment. The information in this blog is for informational purposes only. Before beginning or changing a treatment or lifestyle regime you should consult your primary health care provider.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Nurses Know! - Hearing Loss
By: Debbie Minniefield RN
CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW?
Many elderly people have hearing problems and it only gets worse as they get older. Hearing loss affects some 2 million older adults over 70, by estimate. That statistic makes it one of the most chronic health conditions affecting older adults today. In one study, more than 90% of adults were found to have some degree of hearing loss. Despite this, more than 36% of them reportedly never even had their hearing tested. (Archives of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery)Four out of five who could benefit from wearing hearing aids, do not use them.
Many avoid going to their doctor with their hearing problems, are unaware of their deteriorating hearing, or see it as a sign of growing old and feel embarrassed.
Hearing Loss is seldom Assessed
Untreated hearing loss in the elderly is common and often results in depression and social isolation. Effective treatment could dramatically improve their hearing. Yet, according to a major study published by the Journal of the American Medical Association, in 2003, fewer than 10% of primary care physicians screen elderly patients for hearing loss. So, ask to have a hearing test whenever you see your doctor. JAMA strongly recommends that hearing screenings become as consistent a focus of health examinations taking blood pressures or vision screenings. At the same time, it is imperative that the elderly themselves ,their relatives, colleagues and friends be aware of the need to look for signs of hearing loss and ask that it be properly diagnosed and treated.
References
Journal of the American Medical Association, April 2003.
Notes: This blog post reflects the work of Debbie Minniefield RN (pictured above) with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN and was completed as a class assignment. The content of this blog is for informational purposes only. Before beginning or changing a treatment or lifestyle regime you should consult your primary health care provider.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Nurses Know! - Smoking and the Older Adult
Smoking Cessation in Older AdultsBy: Keturah Mayhorn
Most elderly people, who use tobacco, didn’t start recently. In fact, many have been smoking for years, sometimes even decades, making cessation a hard battle to win. Despite it’s documented relationship with cardiovascular diseases and illnesses, such as cancer, so many older Americans have yet to kick the habit. There isn’t a particular number of cigarettes that causes illness and disease, for some people it could one and for others thousands.
Financial Considerations
It is not uncommon for elderly patients to be on fixed income forcing them to perform a balancing act between food, medication, and other necessities of life. With tobacco’s recent tax increase, uncomfortable adjustments will have to made to some already impossibly tight budgets. Unfortunately, many smoking adults will always make room in their bugets for tobacco.
Why Quitting is recommended no matter what your age
“There is good data to support that smoking cessation lowers the risk for heart disease, stroke, and lung disease” (Mauk, 2006). According to the American Lung Association, benefits begin within only 20 minutes of quitting and continue for by the hour. They include: decreased heart rate and blood pressure, normal blood levels of oxygen, enhanced smell and taste, improved circulation, easier walking, and improved lung function (all within 3 months).
Effective interventions
“The USPSTF found evidence that screening, brief behavioral counseling, and pharmacotherapy are effective in helping clients to quit smoking and remain smoke-free after one year” (Mauk, 2006). It’s never to late to quit paying for tobacco and all of its bad effects, and start living healthier lives.
References
American Lung Association (2007). Smoking Cessation Support.Retrieved February 7, 2008, from web site:http://www.lungusa.org/site/pp.asp?c=dvLUK9O0E&b=33568
Mauk, K. (2006). Gerontological Nursing Competencies for Care. Massachusetts: Jones and Bartlett
Notes: This blog post reflects the work of Keturah Mayhorn RN (pictured above) with editing by Shirley Comer RN and was completed as a class assignment. The information in this blog is for informational purposes only. Before beginning or changing a treatment or lifestyle regime you should consult your primary health care provider.
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