Ease the Way - Gebauer Patient Comfort Blog

5 Strategies to Prevent Healthcare-Associated Infections in Hospitals and Private Practices

By: Sue Zagula | On: April 6, 2023

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:

Ethics in Nursing: Making the Right Choice in Challenging Situations

By: Sue Zagula | On: February 24, 2022

For nearly two decades, nurses have ranked No. 1 in Gallup’s annual poll of the most honest and ethical professions, surpassing doctors, grade-school teachers, and even clergy. And, as the pandemic continues on, public perception of nurses has only improved.

3 Tips for Managing Medical Misinformation from Patients

By: Bethany Nock | On: August 17, 2021

As a clinician, you’re accustomed to fielding patients’ questions and managing skepticism over various treatments. In some cases, a patient’s hunger for information is a positive sign that they’re invested in their health and will be dedicated to their prescribed care plan. But, when patients have the wrong information, it can lead to noncompliance or full-on refusal of care.

Will Handshakes Survive the Pandemic? | Handshake Alternatives

By: Bethany Nock | On: July 8, 2021

For much of modern history, cultures have used handshakes as a greeting and a symbolic gesture to close business transactions. But, since the COVID-19 pandemic began in early 2020, handshakes have almost entirely disappeared in favor of elbow bumps and socially distanced waves. Now, even as more people become vaccinated and are once again connecting in person, many of us are still a little leery of touching each others’ hands.

Mental Health Tips for Nurses: 5 Things to Do On and Off the Job

By: Bethany Nock | On: September 23, 2020

No one goes into nursing expecting a cakewalk. This profession is not only physically demanding, but mentally and emotionally taxing, too. You’re expected to be strong in the face of suffering and tragedy while also showing compassion and empathy, and straddling this line can be difficult.