I had my first jaw dropping patient last week. You know, working in cardiology, you see a lot of the same thing. Acute coronary syndrome, atrial fib, heart failure...Turn 'em and burn 'em, that's my motto. Thursday, I had my first patient that I was completely side-bombed over. That day, an 86-year-old female presented to the ED for ...

Here at the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP) 2013 conference in Orlando, leagues of NPs are gathered for 3 days of educational sessions, CE credits and networking.  At today's opening session, hundreds of NPs were welcomed to the Hilton Orlando's Orange Ballroom to launch the week's events. NAPNAP president ...

Over the past month I have had some very challenging patients. I will often question, why and how did someone end up here at the correctional facility? I believe it is better I do not know. Actually, it is none of my business; it keeps the care unbiased and pure and it does not impact how I treat them. If one of the inmates upsets the ...

I was going to write a blog about neuro-syphilis because I just recently treated a 29-year-old patient for this condition, however, on reflection it seems more apt to discuss the enormous financial costs associated with her care. That being said, neuro-syphilis is a tricky diagnosis; I advise clinicians to read up on it. Syphilis is commonly ...

A patient presents with discrete patches of hyperpigmentation on the face, particularly involving the cheeks and upper lip. She denies recent sun exposure or use of oral contraception pills. She was diagnosed a year ago with melasma and given hydroquinone, which she used as directed in the evening for three months. She now ...

There was a disturbing incident that occurred a few weeks ago. I also look at this experience as an eye-opener for me. I have long come to this realization, but it was never more evident than when the incident happened. First, let me start off by stating, prior to my opportunity to work in corrections, I was judgmental and biased and I ...

I was before, but now I am an even greater advocate of the pill box. Every patient with a lackluster memory, or taking multiple medications, or time sensitive medications should own one. There is nothing better than a physical reminder to keep a body on track. I was recently confronted with an HIV positive patient on a cocktail of ...

  This blog is brought to you by ADVANCE and DNA. The Dermatology Nurses' Association (DNA) will host a Virtual Psoriasis Symposium on Saturday, Nov. 10.  This event offers a unique educational format for dermatology and primary care nurses as well as nurse practitioners who treat patients with psoriasis. An estimated 7.5 ...

Last week I read an article and now I find that I just can't get it off my mind. It announced a new government ''project'' initiated by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. The agency is seeking approval from the White House to begin setting up a system for consumers to report ''medical mistakes'' and ''unsafe practices.'' The purpose ...

Last week, NP and PA readers submitted questions to our communities asking for advice from fellow clinicians. Below are a sample - if you have any advice for these NPs and PAs, comment on the respective article or share with us here and we'll make sure to pass along the wisdom. Have something you'd like a clearer answer on? Let us know on our ...