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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Five More Communication Errors Correctional Nurses Make
Communication is a major component of Correctional Nursing practice. Good communication enhances the therapeutic relationship nurses need in order to provide appropriate and effective patient care. Errors in communication can cause misunderstanding and even mistrust of the nurse, both of which will negatively impact patient care. Consider these five communication errors that may occur. False Reassurance The nurse is taking blood…
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