December 2004
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| Features |
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Five Developments in Asthma Care |
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by Michael A. Frakes, RN, BSN, CFRN, CCRN, EMTP; and Tracy Evans, RN, MPH, ACNP, CEN, CCRN, EMTP |
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The emergency management of acute asthma exacerbations currently revolves around the inhaled b-agonist albuterol, along with systemic corticosteroids. Several other therapies may confer benefits, particularly in very ill asthma patients. |
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Peak Flow Monitoring for Asthma |
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by John D. Zoidis, MD |
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Asthma is the most common chronic disease of childhood, affecting some 4.8 million individuals. Peak flow monitoring is essential for assessing its severity so appropriate therapy can begin. |
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Unexplained Dyspnea May Indicate Pulmonary Embolism |
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by Bill Pruitt, RRT, CPFT, AE-C |
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Pulmonary embolism can be a life-threatening event and has been estimated to occur at a rate of about 69 cases per 100,000 people. |
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The Writing on the Wall: Improving Documentation |
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by Lyn Tisdale, RRT |
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Bad handwriting, more than a nuisance, is fraught with potential legal, financial, and clinical complications. Computers and improved communications offer help. |
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Arterial Blood Gas Analysis: Use of Point-of-Care-testing in the Field |
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by Geza Gemes, MD; Gernot Wildner, MD; and Gerhard Prause, MD |
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Early diagnosis of life-threatening respiratory disturbances and acid-base imbalances allows efficient, properly directed therapy. |
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| Departments |
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Editor's Message |
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Cease and Desist |
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by Marian Benjamin |
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New research into the brain’s role in nicotine addiction may result in changes in the way smoking cessation programs are designed. |
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Guest Editorial |
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Is Health Care Hazardous to Your Health? |
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by John A. Wolfe, RRT, CPFT |
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Respiratory therapists may assume some of the highest rates of exposure to occupational injury. |
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Letters |
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Industry News |
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Manufacturing News |
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Spotlight |
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Positive Reinforcement |
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by C.A. Wolski |
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Self-management of asthma requires a change in behavior and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle. It is part of a team approach that includes the patient, physician, therapist, and family. |
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Facility Profile |
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Wired and Ready |
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by Rich Smith |
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A look at Memorial Health University Medical Center, Savannah, Ga. |
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Product Profiles |
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Resources
