Minimizing the risks of benzodiazepine therapy among pregnant or lactating women involves using drugs that have established safety records at the lowest dosage for the shortest possible duration, avoiding use during the first trimester, and avoiding multidrug regimens.
Along with the advent of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) came a worldwide resurgence of syphilis. The later stages of syphilis, especially neurosyphilis, may present with symptoms of virtually any psychiatric disorder. The authors present three cases of neurosyphilis diagnosed at the Center for Psychiatric Medicine of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where the patients presented with overwhelmingly psychiatric manifestations. The authors recommend that clinicians have a high index of suspicion of neurosyphilis, which may have an exclusively psychiatric presentation.
Background: Alcohol, tobacco, and other drug abuse undermine physical and psychological well-being, contributing to the array of illnesses that necessitate admission to acute care settings. Addictive disorders often are undetected, underreported, or overshadowed by the primary illness. Nurses need continuing education to enhance competence in meeting this challenging problem.
Method: Through a unique collaboration between university faculty and acute care nurses from seven hospitals, the nurses attended 18 monthly workshops designed to meet their learning needs related to substance abuse.
Results: The nurses acquired essential knowledge and skills regarding substance abusing clients. The publication of a substance abuse resource manual and the establishment of a continuing network of professionals committed to improving practice are additional positive outcomes of this endeavor.
Conclusion: Project SAEL (Substance Abuse Education Liaisons) is a model that can be emulated by others.
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