The debate over Full Practice Authority (FPA) has resurfaced in recent years. Exclusive licensure authority allows nurse practitioners and others to practice independently under the guidelines set by the state board of nursing. Proponents say it can increase access to care, improve health outcomes, and reduce costs, while critics express concerns about the quality of care and patient safety.
The concept of Full Practice Authority (FPA) for advanced practice registered nurses has become a topic of frequent discussion in recent years as hospitals and primary care providers look for new ways to deal with rising costs, recruitment and retention challenges, and increasing administrative demands.
For patients, a blood draw can be more than just a routine medical procedure. The fear associated with anticipated pain can overshadow the medical necessity, leaving patients feeling anxious and dreading future appointments. This can lead to needle phobia and even avoidance of essential care in the future.
Patient comfort is a known factor that can help or hinder medical outcomes.
When pediatricians and pediatric nurses speed through appointments, patients’ fears may increase, their cooperation may be impaired, and they may even experience more discomfort. Having a child life specialist on board can add extra support to both the child, child’s family, and medical team to ensure that patient trust and comfort, critical components of trauma-informed care, remain at the forefront.
See how Gebauer’s Pain Ease topical anesthetic skin refrigerant can improve patient comfort in pediatrics. Download the guide.
During the beginning of the COVID pandemic, when hospitals were overwhelmed and personal protective equipment was in short supply, healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) significantly increased after declining for years. Now, as more people succumb to “pandemic fatigue,” many have seemingly become less cautious about getting sick and are abandoning preventative behaviors, such as wearing masks and social distancing. Hospitals are beginning to fill up again as the flu, COVID, RSV, and other infectious diseases spread. Now is a good time for hospitals and private practices to review infection prevention strategies and be prepared for whatever the future may bring. Here are five strategies to get you started:
