The High Cost of Overlooking Workplace Safety
Although implementing workplace violence prevention programs can be expensive, recognizing that these changes can be profitable—and maybe even less costly—can help overcome existing mindsets to find a plan that works.
Risk Management and the Transgender Hospital Admission
These issues challenge healthcare providers and risk managers because not addressing them can result in a distrust of the medical team, a reluctance to disclose critical healthcare concerns out of fear of retaliation or embarrassment, and a greater risk of patient dissatisfaction and litigation.
Promising Data on Opioids Detracts From Ongoing Problem: Postsurgical Dependence
U.S. overdose deaths—67.8% of which involve opioids—decreased last year for the first time in nearly three decades and are projected to decline another 3.4% this year. Other data show opioids are prescribed less often, and at lower dosages, than in the past.
How Telehealth and eConsults Are Reducing Patient Wait Times
The shortage of specialist physicians in the United States continues to receive a great deal of attention. However, a lesser-known compounding factor is the increase in referral rates to specialists.
“Alexa, What’s Wrong With Me?”
Chatbot uptake is rising rapidly. It is one of the fastest-growing segments in healthcare, with the market expected to be worth more than $314 million by 2023. As chatbots gain broader acceptance, the initial distrust surrounding them has ebbed.
How AI Can Impact Chronic Disease Management
Digital health management can be used to support patients outside the four walls of care delivery; it offers the potential to extend clinical resources, with some encouraging results.
Communication Determines Patient Safety
Partnerships with the patient start with cooperation and commitment, where the health professional must be close to the patient to act as a true “observer.” Observation allows the clinician to assess the patient’s needs and “essence,” enabling the relationship to grow and promoting favorable health outcomes.
Q&A: Dealing With Sexual Harassment in Healthcare
Kate Fenner, PhD, RN, is managing director of Compass Clinical Consulting, specializes in organizational optimization, performance improvement, and regulatory compliance. She spoke about how harassment allegations should be handled, preventive measures, and the need to take both seriously.
Q&A: Tim Vanderveen Discusses Advances in IV Therapy
In this interview, Tim Vanderveen, PharmD, a consultant with ICU Medical, discusses IV therapy and its impact on patient safety.
Don’t Air Your Dirty Laundry
Pests commonly seek places of warmth, with food, moisture, and shelter—and shared laundry facilities offer each of these draws. Because of this, pest management professionals are taking note and encouraging facility managers and staff to do the same.