Biomedical subjects
Publications and source records attributed to S Woollons.
Dynamic support systems are designed for the prevention and management of pressure sores in medium- to very-high-risk patients. Careful patient assessment is required for the effective use of these support systems. The selected product must be comfortable and acceptable to the patient.
Compression hosiery is used in the management of venous incompetence, which may result in varicose veins, venous ulceration, deep vein thrombosis and lymphoedema. Accurate patient assessment and measurement is essential to ensure that hosiery is appropriate, fits properly and is worn by the patient.
Three broad types of intravenous infusion pump are available--gravity driven, electronic and mechanical devices. The type suitable for a unit will depend on the patient group. Nurses are generally responsible for administering intravenous infusions and should therefore be involved in the purchasing process.
People with diabetes are faced with many choices as treatment and techniques improve. The nurse's role centres on education and empowerment. Insulin pens can provide increased independence and control for many people with diabetes.
People requiring life-supporting technology should be able to live at home. Funding is often the main obstacle to discharge for highly dependent individuals. Care in the home environment can greatly improve quality of life. Specialist nurses are ideally positioned to evaluate highly technical home care.
Temperature measurement contributes towards an objective indication of patient status. In-service education can enhance the accuracy of temperature measurement. The measurement of body temperature is traditionally viewed as a nursing responsibility.
Automated drug delivery is now indispensable in most hospital settings. The use of ambulatory infusion therapy in patients' homes is increasing. Nurses are often responsible for acquiring infusion devices.
Advances in catheter design and material technology have helped reduce complications and can improve long-term catheter management. Many aspects of long-term catheter care can now be based on research. To minimise the risk of complications nursing care should be individualised and subject to continuous assessment.
Peak flow is an objective measure of respiratory status. Nurses working with people with asthma require specialist knowledge. Nurses need to have an awareness of products available for people with asthma. Self-management plans can benefit people with asthma.