Q: Have you ever made a mistake or been involved in an accident at work? How did you tell your manager? A: Just the other day, I was involved in an incident that is going to cause me a couple months of headaches. Thankfully, no one was hurt (although maybe my feelings a little). It was a simple blood transfusion. I have given blood to hundreds of patients before and this time was no different. It was me and another nurse (you need two nurses...  Read More »

It’s become a tired joke on TV shows through the years: A patient’s gown opens in the back and reveals his or her bottom. But the reality can be quite serious and embarrassing for hospital visitors. According to the Buffalo News, Idaho registered nurse Carleen Egbert and anesthesiologist Brian Kerr are hoping to change that—and increase dignity and privacy—with a new design. The duo conceptualized the idea for a gown that...  Read More »

“Dear Deanna: I haven’t had a lot of experience with removing transparent dressings on IV sites. Everytime that I do, I pull out the IV catheter. What can I do?” First of all, relax. This is a technique that is only accomplished with practice. Here are a few tips that will  help you remove that bio-occlusive (transparent) dressing without losing that IV catheter. It will also minimize any discomfort to the patient. 1....  Read More »