Benzodiazepines are frequently prescribed for anxiety and sleep disorders. They are also popular for self-medicating purposes. They are rarely abused alone, and are often combined with alcohol or opiates. Those who abuse cocaine or methamphetamines may use benzodiazepines to ‘level off’ a high. Once identified, successful benzodiazepine withdrawal requires monitoring and management. Signs of Impending Problems The symptoms and duration…
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Correctional Nurse Clinical Update: Seizures in Corrections- Are They Real?
At just about every Seizure Disorder presentation for Correctional Nurses I have given or attended, the question of identifying “real” seizures versus “fake” seizures has come up. It is understandable that Correctional Nurses sometimes doubt whether the patient is truly seizing, especially if the seizure presentation is not one that looks like “standard” seizure activity, because there are special privileges…
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Clinical Practice Update: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus IV
In this post, we continue our discussion of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Nursing Interventions for the Patient with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus ASSESSMENT AND HISTORY The importance of obtaining a detailed history from the patient, including present and past symptoms, and family history of autoimmune disorders, cannot be overstated. Medication history should also be solicited from any patient who presents with symptoms…
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