From the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID SERVICES

https://www.cms.gov/

Infection Prevention, Control & Immunizations

Infection Control: This facility task must be used to investigate compliance at F880, F881, F882, F883, F885, F886, F887, and F888. For the purpose of this task, “staff” includes facility employees (regardless of clinical responsibilities or resident contact), licensed practitioners, adult students, trainees, and volunteers; and individuals who provide care, treatment or other services for the facility and/or its residents, under contract or by other arrangement. The infection prevention and control program (IPCP) must be facility-wide and include all departments and contracted services. If a specific care area concern is identified, it should be evaluated under the specific care area, such as for pressure ulcers, respiratory care, catheter care, and medication pass observations which include central lines, peripheral IVs, and oral/IM/respiratory medications.

Entry and screening procedures as well as resident care guidance have varied over the progression of COVID-19 transmission in facilities. Facilities are expected to be in compliance with CMS requirements and surveyors will use guidance that is in effect at the time of the survey. Refer to QSO memos released at: https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Provider-Enrollment-and-Certification/SurveyCertificationGenInfo/Policy-andMemos-to- States-and-Regions.

Read and Download Infection Prevention, Control & Immunizations task for compliance at F880, F881, F882, F883, F885, F886, F887, and F888.

Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC- 22) Certificate of Mastery Program

NEW Oct 2022 Compliance deadline

Get your Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC- 22) Certificate  ***Mastery Course required to sit for IP-BC****

NADONA Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC- 22) Certificate of Mastery Program (15 Session) – Online Course

The IPAC Program is a Certificate of Mastery Program that yields an official certificate and either 15 hours (live) or 22 contact hours (online). Awarded CEs are nursing CEs.

The Mastery class is a prerequisite to be eligible to sit for the NADONA Infection Preventionist Board Certification. The IPAC program is designed to cover all the components of a well-rounded Infection Control Program and the role of the Infection Preventionist.

The IPAC program was specifically designed to meet the new regulations regarding Infection Control and the Infection Preventionist.

The Infection Prevention Committee is a dedicated group of Infection Preventionists working in the long-term care (LTC) and post-acute care arena. Its primary objective is to provide a platform for education, resources, mentoring, and peer support to empower Infection Preventionists and promote their essential role within the LTC community. The committee’s structure includes elected officers who make informed decisions regarding educational focus areas and resource allocation. As an integral part of NADONA, the committee operates in accordance with NADONA’s bylaws, upholding the organization’s mission and core values.

Vision:

To establish the National Association of the Directors of Nursing Administration in Long-Term Care (NADONA) Infection Prevention and Control Committee (IPC) as a leading force in fostering a culture of infection prevention and control throughout the post-acute care continuum, ultimately promoting the health and well-being of residents and staff.

Mission:

The NADONA IPC is dedicated to the advancement and the enhancement of infection prevention and control best practices in post-acute care through education and engagement with IP stakeholders.

Why join? …. Membership Benefits

• All NADONA Membership benefits (except state chapter membership)

Plus

• Receive Mentoring from Professional Infection Preventionists
• Receive our Quarterly IP Newsletter filled with articles, updates, new products for the IP
• Exclusive Monthly Online IP Member ONLY Computer side Chats – Opportunity to ask questions, discuss topics, general peer conversation, attended and hosted by NADONA staff
• Quarterly IP Webinars – Outside speakers presenting on hot topics and new rules/regulations
• Quarterly meetings (3 virtual meetings and one in person meeting at the national NADONA conference
• Get “The Director” NADONA’s quarterly journal will have an IP Section dedicated to the Infection Preventionist
• Quarterly board meetings (Includes officers of the IP Committee)
• Participate in Scholarships
• Exclusive Webinars (Contact Hours and without Contact hours)
• Receive Discounts on Certification Courses and Exams
• Get Discounted price on Registration for NADONA Conference
• View Exclusive Resources on NADONA website for MEMBERS ONLY
• Receive LTC Publications like Chamberlain College of Nursing

CNA Career Paths

Ask any nursing professional where they began their career, and odds are, they’ll say they started as a CNA. Certified nursing assistant experience provides an essential foundation of patient care skills—so no matter where a nursing assistant ends up, they use their CNA skills for the rest of their career.

Being a CNA is a rewarding healthcare position with a wide range of job opportunities in a variety of work settings and patient populations. Once you begin your journey as a CNA, you have several paths to advancement in healthcare, depending on your career goals.

This page explains:

• Where you can work as a CNA
• Career options in related fields
• How you can advance your nursing career
• The differences between CNAs, LPNs, and RNs
• The advantages of each nursing pathway

Find CNA Classes

FIND CNA CLASSES NEAR YOU: PRACTICE TESTS, TRAINING MATERIALS & RESOURCES

What is a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)?

A certified nursing assistant has the responsibility for serving the needs of their patients while under the supervision of a licensed nurse. Certified Nurse Assistants are the liaison between the patient and the licensed nurse. The CNA’s primary responsibility is to take care of the patient’s personal and healthcare needs as well as communicate critical information about the patient’s health. A CNA may work in various healthcare facilities such as hospitals, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, or even personal homes. The work is fast-paced, and CNAs must have a strong work ethic to be successful.

Top Nurse

Top Nurse is the only website that provides all the information related to CNA. We have made an honest effort to provide our visitors with comprehensive and up-to-date information about this profession.

If you are thinking of starting a nursing career, nurse aide is an ideal profession, to begin with. But before starting any profession it is important to have detailed knowledge about the pros and cons of the field so that you can make the right choice. The Top Nurse on various topics posted here will give you a perfect idea about the various aspects of the CNA profession.

Top Nurse

Top Nurse is the only website that provides all the information related to CNA. We have made an honest effort to provide our visitors with comprehensive and up-to-date information about this profession.

If you are thinking of starting a nursing career, nurse aide is an ideal profession, to begin with. But before starting any profession it is important to have detailed knowledge about the pros and cons of the field so that you can make the right choice. The Top Nurse on various topics posted here will give you a perfect idea about the various aspects of the CNA profession.

NurseJournal

NurseJournal has a wealth of career and education resources that can help you succeed in nursing.

Trending Nursing Topics

Get a pulse on the latest trends and news in nursing through our curated selection of articles.

Accredited Nursing Programs

At NurseJournal, we partner with trusted, accredited online schools. Everyone deserves to succeed in a career they love. Online learning is flexible, convenient, and cost effective.

Edsmart ~ Fast Track LPN Programs Online

Medical Assistant Student Resource Guide

Top Nurse

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) provide basic medical care to the sick, injured, and disabled under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and doctors. The LPN/LVN profession only requires you to obtain a diploma, certificate, or associate degree from an accredited nursing program; these typically take one or two years. The term ‘LPN’ is most frequently used to describe these professionals, though some states prefer to call them LVNs.

NURSING.ORG LPN/LVN

Sign up to Stay Informed

Fast Track LPN Programs

Nursing Careers

Top Nurse

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) provide basic medical care to the sick, injured, and disabled under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and doctors. The LPN/LVN profession only requires you to obtain a diploma, certificate, or associate degree from an accredited nursing program; these typically take one or two years. The term ‘LPN’ is most frequently used to describe these professionals, though some states prefer to call them LVNs.

NURSING.ORG LPN/LVN

Sign up to Stay Informed

Fast Track LPN Programs

Nursing Careers

NurseJournal.org’s Nurse Practitioner Career Guide

List of Online Nurse Practitioner Schools in Florida

Nursepractitioneronline.com

Family Nurses Practitioner Programs Guideline

How to Become a Pain Management Nurse Practitioner

Nurse Practitioner Program Guides

Nurse Practitioner Schools

Guide to NP Certification

NP School Interview Guide

Nurse Practitioner FAQ

Nurse Practitioner Residencies & Fellowships by Specialty

NP Continuing Education: General CME, plus CE by Specialty

Nurse Practitioner Requirements

Guide to Evidence-Based Nursing Practice for NP’s

How to Write the Perfect NP Personal Statement

21 Trends for NP’s in 2016

11 Scholarships for Nurse Practitioners

How To Become a Nurse Researcher

Partnership for Health in Aging

A Coalition of Organizations Representing Healthcare Professions Caring for Older Adults

Mission

To prepare America’s formal and informal caregiving workforce to provide quality care for America’s aging population, and to ensure the financial feasibility of providing that care.

Subscribe to  Caring For the Ages

The Executive Committee of AMDA’s Board of Directors is monitoring the COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) outbreak and posting updates as they occur.  The health, safety, and well-being of the community is our highest priority. This is a rapidly evolving situation; please check the CDC website often for the latest recommendations.

FDA announces voluntary nationwide recall of all liquid products manufactured by PharmaTech and distributed by six companies

• [UPDATE 8/9/2016]  FDA is alerting health care professionals and consumers of PharmaTech’s voluntary recall expansion to include all liquid products due to possible Burkholderia cepacia contamination. These products were manufactured in its Davie, Florida, facility, and distributed and labeled by six firms – Rugby, Major, Bayshore, Metron, Centurion, and Virtus.

Consumers, pharmacies, and health care facilities that have product which is being recalled should stop using and dispensing them immediately. Using these products in a patient whose immune system is compromised could result in infections, which may be life-threatening.

To date, FDA has received adverse event reports related to oral liquid docusate sodium and is not aware of any adverse event reports related to the additional recalled products.

FDA and CDC will provide additional information when it is available.

FDA announces voluntary nationwide recall of oral liquid docusate sodium manufactured by PharmaTech and distributed by Rugby Laboratories

[7/16/16]  U.S. Food and Drug Administration is alerting health care professionals that PharmaTech LLC, Davie, Florida, is voluntarily recalling all non-expired lots of Diocto Liquid, a docusate sodium solution distributed by Rugby Laboratories, Livonia, Michigan. The agency confirmed the product has been contaminated with Burkholderia cepacia, a bacteria linked to an outbreak in five states.

PharmaTech manufactures the oral liquid docusate sodium, which is distributed nationwide by Rugby with a Rugby label in one pint (473 mL) bottles.

In addition, FDA has received several adverse event reports of B. cepacia infections in patients. Some of these reports identify liquid docusate sodium products manufactured by companies other than PharmaTech. FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continue to investigate the extent of this issue in order to identify other potentially contaminated liquid docusate sodium products.

Patient safety is our top priority. FDA joins CDC in recommending that clinicians not use any liquid docusate sodium product as a stool softener or for any other medical purpose.

FDA and CDC will provide additional information when it is available.

FDA encourages health care professionals and patients to report adverse events or quality problems experienced with the use of oral liquid docusate sodium products to FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program:

• Complete and submit the report online at www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm; or
• Download and complete the form, then submit it via fax at 1-800-FDA-0178.

National Student Nurses’ Association

Seven Mistakes to Avoid When Searching for Your First CNA Job

Join TMF Quality Innovative Network for Valuable Resources

Vaccine Safety Resources for Healthcare Providers

Provider’s Role: Importance of Vaccine Administration and Vaccine Storage & Handling

Safety Information about Specific Vaccines

Common Vaccine Safety Concerns

All Cause Harm Prevention in Nursing Homes

American Geriatrics Society 2023 updated AGS Beers Criteria® for potentially inappropriate medication use in older adults

By the 2023 American Geriatrics Society Beers Criteria® Update Expert Panel

First published: 04 May 2023    |       https://doi.org/10.1111/jgs.18372

Abstract

READ MORE

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Late Adopter_package_20180221 Final

ap_by_state_late_adopters_20180215 Final

Data, Toolkits and Updates

CDC Respiratory Virus Updates

• How to Get Your Flu, COVID-19, and RSV Vaccines This Year
• 5 Things You Should Know about COVID-19 Vaccines
• Immunization Overview for Fall and Winter 2023-2024
• Respiratory Virus Vaccination for Pregnant People
• Update on RSV and New Vaccine Recommendation
• Update on SARS CoV-2 Variant BA.2.86 Being Tracked by CDC
• 2023-2024 Respiratory Disease Season Outlook – Summary
• Updated COVID-19 Vaccine Recommendations are Now Available
• What We Can Learn from Flu in the Southern Hemisphere
• Update on SARS CoV-2 Variant BA.2.86 Being Tracked by CDC
• Update on SARS CoV-2 Variant BA.2.86 Being Tracked by CDC
• New COVID-19 Variant BA.2.86 Being Tracked by CDC

Respiratory Virus Hospitalization Surveillance Network (RESP-NET)

The Respiratory Virus Hospitalization Surveillance Network (RESP-NET) comprises three networks that conduct population-based surveillance for laboratory-confirmed hospitalizations associated with COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and influenza among children and adults.

Respiratory Virus Toolkit (cdc.gov) 

A toolkit for preparing for and responding to nursing home residents or healthcare personnel (HCP) who develop signs or symptoms of a respiratory viral infection.

Healthcare Provider Toolkit for Respiratory Virus Season

Preparing your patients for the fall and winter virus season. Every year, influenza (flu), COVID-19, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) cause hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations and thousands of deaths during the fall and winter virus season. In the United States, we now have more tools than ever before to help people protect themselves, their families, and communities.

2023-2024 Fall and Winter Virus Season Playbook

• Fall and Winter Virus Season Overview
• Outlook for the 2023-2024 Fall and Winter Season
• COVID-19 Bridge Access Program
• Communications Insights and Messaging

Vaccine Resources and Training

One stop-shop for all HCP job aids for COVID vaccines

U.S. COVID-19 Vaccine Product Information: Find a suite of information and materials that are needed for each specific COVID-19 vaccine that cover administration, storage and handling, safety, and reporting.

Infographics: Visual representations of the recommendations; these should be used in combination with complete clinical guidance

Recommended updated (2023–2024 Formula) COVID-19 vaccines for people who are NOT moderately or severely immunocompromised*†

COVID-19 Vaccine Training Module

CDC has created a single web-on-demand, self-paced training module for healthcare providers who administer COVID-19 vaccines. The module provides information about COVID-19 vaccine Emergency Use Authorization and safety, approved COVID-19 vaccines, and guidelines for vaccine storage, handling, administration, and reporting. This comprehensive, 45-minute module replaces four earlier modules that individually reviewed immunization best practices and vaccine-specific guidance.

NEW BLOG: 5 Things You Should Know about COVID-19 Vaccines

• 1. Updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccines save lives and prevent hospitalizations.
• 2. COVID-19 vaccines are effective.
• 3. When side effects from COVID-19 vaccines occur, they are usually mild or moderate.
• 4. Talk to your healthcare provider before you believe everything you see or hear from others.
• 5. The updated COVID-19 vaccine recommendations are based on data and science.

Treatment and Therapeutics

HHS and Pfizer Reach Agreement to Increase Patient Access to Paxlovid

Today, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), announced that HHS and Pfizer have reached an agreement that extends patient access to Paxlovid, maximizes taxpayer investment, and begins Paxlovid’s transition to the commercial market in November 2023. This agreement builds on HHS and Pfizer’s strong partnership over the last three years that enabled the development, manufacture, and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutics at a record pace.

[READ MORE]

Print Materials from the CDC

Downloads or print resources available: Handouts, Posters, Infographics, Stickers, Window Clings and Counter Clings

• Antibiotics
• Viruses or Bacteria
• Common Cold
• Ear Infections
• Bronchitis

Educational Resource Materials for Healthcare Professionals

Educational resources, continuing education (CE) and training opportunities, and resources for state and local health departments on antibiotic stewardship.

• Handouts
• Prescription Pads
• Community Pharmacy Posters
• Hospital Pharmacy Posters
• Consultant Pharmacy Posters
• Videos
• Social Media and Web Graphics
• Sticker Sheets, Window Clings, and Counter Clings

Viruses or Bacteria Handout/Poster

Handout, poster: Antibiotics are often prescribed when they are not needed for respiratory infections. Antibiotics are only needed for treating certain infections caused by bacteria. Viral illnesses cannot be treated with antibiotics. When antibiotics aren’t needed, they won’t help you, and the side effects could still cause harm.

About the Guidelines: The COVID-19 Treatment Guidelines

The COVID-19 Treatment Guidelines provide clinicians with evidence-based recommendations on the management of COVID-19.

• What’s New
• Table of Contents
• Guideline Development
• Panel Roster
• Panel Financial Disclosure
• Guideline Archive

Interim Clinical Considerations for COVID-19 Treatment in Outpatients

This page provides a treatment overview for healthcare providers.

• What You Need to Know
• Risk Factors for Severe COVID-19
• Outpatient Treatments for COVID-19
• Intravenous remdesivir (Veklury)
• Alternative Therapies
• Symptomatic Management

Liverpool COVID-19 drug interactions

Additional Resources

Education on billing & reimbursement process

Workforce shortage issues:

Workforce shortage issues:

Nursing Home Staff Competency Assessment

WHAT IS AN F-TAG NUMBER?

A federal tag (or F-tag) number corresponds to a specific regulation within the Code of Federal Regulations. For example, “F312” refers to the regulation requiring nursing facilities to provide dependent residents with care.

F-Tags are areas of compliance assessed during a Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services or CMS Survey.

F-Tags are used by your state and CMS to identify deficiencies based on a community’s performance within CMS standards and guidelines. Each tag is related to one area of the Code of Federal Regulations.

Guidance for codes used with Federal Regulatory Groups for Long Term Care Facilities.

DOWNLOAD REVISED LIST OF F-TAGS

https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Provider-Enrollment-and-Certification/GuidanceforLawsAndRegulations/Downloads/List-of-Revised-FTags.pdf

Tag to be cited by Federal Surveyors Only. June 21, 2021

Page 1. F540. Definitions. 483.12 Freedom from Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation.

Survey Activity Since October 24, 2022: What Facilities Need to Know to Prepare

Even when you’re confident in your processes and know you’re providing high quality care, surveys are stressful for you and your staff. In this guide, administrators and DONs share their experiences with surveyors in their regions to help you prepare.

Sign up here at PharMerica to get survey information

Technical Users’ Guide   |   July 2022

Effective with the July 2022 refresh, CMS is revising the methodology for calculating the Staffing star rating. The new rating is based on six separate staffing measures. Similar to the Quality Measure (QM) rating, points are assigned based on the performance on each of these six measures.

NURSING HOME INFECTION PREVENTION & CONTROL: WHERE WE ARE AND WHERE WE NEED TO GO

DOWNLOAD Infection Control Advocate & Resident Education (ICARE) Program

ICD-10-Resources

The NNHQI Website

The NNHQI  All Cause Harm Nursing Home Change Package, November 2018

The NNHQI All Cause Harm Webinar

All Cause Harm Webinar Slide Handouts

The V 2.1 Change Package (First Phase) April 2017

Lake Superior Quality Innovation Network

I WANT TO SERVE

Interested in serving on a board? Want to learn more about where to start? Fill out the form below to gain access to new resources and to receive updates on board opportunities across the nation.

https://tinyurl.com/NOBCIWantToServe

Diligent, NOBC Partnership Launch: How to Register in Diligent Network

Diligent, a new NOBC Strategic Partner, is a leader in governance technology that has worked with more than 25,000 organizations to modernize governance processes. The Diligent Director Network database also gives you access to search and apply for open board opportunities or use search capabilities to find potential board candidates outside of your existing networks.

In this webinar, learn how to register for the Diligent Director Network!

Diligent webinar:   https://tinyurl.com/DiligentWebinar

Your Invitation to Join Diligent Director Network

We are excited to include you in the largest and most diverse database of directors and rising directors in the world. Using this form, we ask that you provide some preliminary information to have your initial profile created. Please select your referring Affiliation from the list on the form to ensure your profile is classified correctly.

Once complete, we will be in touch directly with additional details on how to access Director Network and to complete your profile.

Diligent Profile:    https://tinyurl.com/DiligentProfile

___________________

Equilar Diversity Network Partnership Launch: Registering for the Network

Equilar webinar:    https://tinyurl.com/EquilarWebinar

NOBC: Equilar Diversity Network Participation

Please provide your information below to participate in the Equilar Diversity Network.  Equilar Profile:   https://tinyurl.com/EquilarProfile

____________

NOBC Partnership Launch:

How to Register in Diligent Director Network and Equilar Diversity Network for Consideration for Corporate Board Opportunities

Launch Kit          https://tinyurl.com/LaunchKitt

Self Care for Nurses and Mental Health in Nursing

Nursing can be a very stressful profession. It requires a high level of compassion and empathy in difficult situations, not to mention long hours, frequent night shifts, or the risk of contracting contagious diseases. Some nurses might find that the challenges of the job begin to harm their mental health. This experience is common, and it can be very distressing.

According to a 2022 study on mental health in nursing published by the Elsevier Public Health Emergency Collection, 44.6% of nurses surveyed reported experiencing moderate to severe depression, while 31.1% reported moderate to severe anxiety. Finding the appropriate resources to care for one’s mental health is an important process. One of the best ways for nurses to manage their mental health is by practicing good self-care. Read on to learn more about why self-care is important, what it looks like on a practical level, and how to customize self-care systems.

READ MORE

Nursing Specialties with the Highest Salary

Deciding which nursing specialty to pursue is a major moment in a nurse’s career, and deserves a lot of thought and research. There are currently almost 100 nursing specialties across the United States, each one with different requirements, skills, education, responsibilities, etc. The right nursing specialty, one that a nurse is truly passionate about, helps alleviate the burnout of working many-hour shifts at all times of the day. When considering a specialty, nurses have a number of factors to examine including their technical interests, career and personal goals, and the current nursing shortage.

One important area to consider, however, is the salary. This guide will cover the nursing specialties with the highest salary and an overview of each nursing specialty.

READ MORE

The nursing profession is one of the fastest-growing and most popular career fields in the 21st century. Rising incomes and an aging population have resulted in increased demand for qualified nurses. Adding to this demographic shift, many regions face a shortage of nurses in specific specialties such as critical care and labor and delivery. Despite this immense opportunity, many prospective nurses believe that it takes a substantial amount of time and money to enter the field. However, thanks to new technologies and the ever-evolving educational environment, prospective nurses can choose quicker routes into nursing than ever before. However, it is essential to note that different nursing paths have varying education, time commitment, and licensing and certification requirements. As a result, before deciding on a path, you should reflect on what type of nursing or specialty you want to pursue. We will cover these paths and their pros and cons below.

READ MORE

Multiple Language Pain Assessment Scales

Assessing Pain and Falls Risk in Residents with Cognitive Impairment

NursingExams.org Scholarship Hub

Self Care Tips for Nurses’ Mental Health

The pandemic has proved even further what we’ve known to be true for a long time, nurses are a vital asset to our healthcare system. In order to offer some relief for their monthly loan payments, we recently created what we believe to be the most in-depth guide for nurses who may be thinking about refinancing their student loans. Education Loan Finance

Nurse Resume Example & Writing Guide

Nursing interview questions & how to answer them

Financial Aid and FAFSA Guide for College Students

The Guide to Scholarships by Major

Ultimate Guide for Nursing Students

Getting Through Nursing School with a Learning Disability

Tips to Maintain Good Mental Health in Nursing School

Best Jobs for Nursing Students

Financial Tips For Young Adults: How To Budget, Save And Protect Your Finances

Do I Qualify for Financial Aid?

Best Guide to Online DHA Programs

The Student’s Guide to Managing Stress in College

Dermatology Nurse Career Overview

Mental Health and Sleep

Griswold’s new scholarship program honors caregivers, founder’s legacy

Elder Abuse & Neglect – Warning Signs & How to Prevent it

Best Colleges Scholarships for Nursing Students

The 5 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs 2021

Grades Fixer: Useful Tools for Virtual and Distance Learning

Financial Aid for Marginalized Students

Become with Lantern:  Plan your career from start to finish

Shift Work Sleep Disorder

Guide to the Best Online Master’s Programs in 2021

College Consensus Best Online Colleges & Universities

LTC News

BRC Healthcare Programs That Are Bringing Real Change

Career Exploration Guide in Medical Imaging: A Resource Guide for Healthcare Students

The 10 Best College Majors for the Future

How To Manage Your Online Studies Efficiently

Finding a Job as a Nursing School Graduate

6 Essential Tips for Nurses in their First Year

The Ultimate List of Best Universities for Graduate Careers: Global University Employability Ranking 2020-2021

AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org

Nursing License Map

Nursing in California: Plan Your Career as an RN or LVN

College Students Guide to Ergonomics 

College Scholarship Guide – EduBirdie

Guide to BSN to DNP Programs Online

Guide to Online DNP Programs (Doctor of Nursing Practice

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)  nurse.org

Preventing Trips and Falls at Home and the Workplace: Design and Layout Considerations

Age-in-Place Home Improvements: A Room-by-Room Guide

Going from RN to BSN

13 Minority Nursing Scholarships

How to Identify and Address Apathy Caused by Dementia

Top 21 Scholarships for US Entrepreneurs 2021 (Applying tips & Statistics)

CNA Free Training

CNA Classes Near Me

The Increasing Demand for Nurses: An Online Guide to Educational and Career Pathways

Guide to Online Nursing Programs

Students’ Guide to Online Lectures

Students’ Guide to Succeed in Discussion Forums

The 20 Best Nursing Career Specialties

Broadband Search

Legal Assistance for Nursing Home Abuse

Top 60 Online Master’s Programs No GRE

SeniorGuidance.org

CNA Classes Near Me

CNA Free Training

SeniorCare.com Aging Matters Scholarship

Resume Builder Create a Resume

Resume Builder High School Resume Examples

25 Nursing School Leaders Tell Nursing Students What to Expect in 2021

Seven Mistakes to Avoid When Searching for Your First CNA Job

Memory Care Facilities

Tips for Nursing Students

Nursing Career Requirements Overview

Nursing Field Fundamentals

Native American Scholarships

Financial Aid and Scholarships for Online Graduate Students

Online MBA Review

University HQ Nursing Degree Guide

Online Colleges that Offer Free Laptops or Tablets

8 Simple Questions to Finding Your Nursing Niche

The Nursing Degree Pathfinder

Recent college graduates face a tough job market : Here are your options

Guide to Finding and Winning Nursing Scholarships

Scholarships for Nursing Majors

What is a Medical Assistant and How Can You Become One

Scholarships for Women

Financial Assistance for Single Mothers

Online RN to MSN

Healthcare Administration Degrees Guide

Family Nurse Practitioner Programs Online

Free Internet for Students:  7 Providers Offering Support

Scholarships for Women

Nursing Programs and COVID-19

Online Degrees in Public Service

Financial Aid for Online Colleges

Nursing Cover Letter Example & Guide [2020]

Understanding of Federal Student Aid

Advent Health University Night Shift Nurse Survival Guide:  Resources, Tools & Tips

Nurse Journal Social Community for Nurses Worldwide Financial Aid Overview and Scholarships

DeVry University Healthcare Degrees

Nursing Career Guide

GradSchools.com

Reviews.com – The Best Scholarship Search Platforms of 2017

Discovernursing.com

Nursing Scholarship Health Care Leaders

Nursing Scholarship

Online RN to BSN programs

How to Become a Nurse

Top 50 RN to BSN Programs

Registered Nursing.org RN to MSN Guide

RN Salary

RN Careers

The Student Loan Report

Top Nursing

Healthcare administration degree guidebooks to better help job seekers, professionals, and students understand the changing landscapes of healthcare administration both at school and work. This guidebook can be viewed here: http://www.publichealthdegrees.org/program/masters/mha

Accredited Online Schools and Colleges Online Nursing Programs from Top Schools

Health Services Administration Major

Medical and Billing Coding (Student guide, icd-10, scholarship)

Managing Nurse Fatigue – A Commitment to Quality Care

Rutgers Online – Pursue What’s Next:  RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Bradley University Online Master of Science in Nursing Program

Accredited Schools Online

Contacting a state board of nursing – How to find them

College Guidebook: Tips and tricks to success

Guide to Online Universities & Colleges

Online College Financial Aid Opportunities

Student Success: A College Survival Guide

The Online MBA in Healthcare Management

How to Get Hired: A Grads Guide to a Career

College Universities:  Your Education Starts Here

Colorado Technical University Masters of Nursing

Nurse.org Career Resources

Maryville College – Nursing in the United States

Georgetown University School of Nursing and Health Studies

Guide to Online Schools

2018 Most Affordable Online Colleges

2018 Top Online Colleges

Best Value Schools Masters in Nursing Online

Top Accredited Online Colleges

George Washington University School of Nursing and Health Studies

Best RN to BSN Program

What Can I Do With My MSN Degree?

University of Louisiana Lafayette RN to BSN

Purdue University Global Nursing School Programs

AND Your Nursing Career Guide

Online DNP Programs

Best Nursing Degrees

Accelerated Online Programs

BSN Education

Scholarships for Student Caregivers

The Caring.com Scholarship

RN program rankings

Free CNA Training and Classes Near You

Nursing Resume Writing

How to Become a Nurse

CNA Test Practice

TEACH!  Make a Difference

Student’s Guide to Financial Aid Online: How to Pay for College Responsibly

Guide to Online BSN to DNP Programs

Milken Institute School of Public Health

University Headquarters

Best Trade Schools:  Nursing and Healthcare

The Recovery Village:  Drug and Alcohol Treatment for the Elderly

Careerblog:  Nursing Resumes Samples and How-to Guides

Nurse Journal:  Types of Master’s Degrees in Nursing

Graduate Certificates Available for Nurses

Discover Healthcare Administration

WGU Ohio College of Health Professions Online

Prime Medical Alert Prime Scholarship

Nurse Salary Guide in Ohio

Online MBA & EMBA Guides

How to Become a CNA

https://www.incrediblehealth.com/blog/discounts-for-nursing-students/

In the years to come, our country is projected to experience a shortage of nurses that will only be aggravated by the aging Baby Boomer generation. Considering nurses’ contributions to the entire medical industry, the impact would degrade our society’s health at large. It’s increasingly more important than ever to encourage individuals to pursue or advance their careers in nursing.

However, the variety of degree and certificate options, and all the acronyms that come with them can make the nursing field difficult to navigate. In order to help alleviate the confusion, my team at Nursing.org curated a streamlined series of guides breaking down degree types, program requirements, and flexible degree options. You can check them out below:

Becoming a Nurse Series

Nursing Career Pathways
https://www.nursing.org/careers/

Earning a Nursing Degree:
https://www.nursing.org/degrees/

Flexible Nursing Programs:
https://www.nursing.org/online-programs/

Accelerated Nursing Programs: 
https://www.nursing.org/online-programs/accelerated-nursing-programs/

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant

What is a CNA?
https://www.nursing.org/careers/certified-nursing-assistant/

Flexible CNA Programs:
https://www.nursing.org/online-programs/certified-nursing-assistant/

Scholarships for Prospective Nurses: 
https://www.nursing.org/scholarships/

In order for our healthcare system – and more broadly, our society – to be able to address the needs of its people, we need well-trained nurses to counteract the shortage. We researched these guides to help nurses advance their careers for the betterment of both their lives and their communities.

Online Nursing Programs

Online ADN Programs

Online RN to BSN Programs

Online MSN Programs

Earning an Associate’s in Nursing

Earning a Bachelor’s in Nursing

Earning a Master’s in Nursing

Earning a Doctorate in Nursing

NursingExams.org has developed resources to help nurses handle different aspects of their jobs, how to address their mental health, and ways to improve their career.

How to Deal with Difficult Patients as a Nurse

Nurses and other medical professionals are present for patients during good and bad times. Sometimes, it can be the worst day a person has ever had when they encounter a nurse. From rude comments to large-scale outbursts, many things happen in medical facilities that make it challenging for nurses to know how to deal with difficult patients. Of course, in a professional environment, maintaining a level of professionalism is paramount. Finding a way to complete the job at hand with poise and compassion while dealing with a complex emotional situation is a balance that can be hard to strike.

READ MORE

Self Care for Nurses and Mental Health in Nursing

Nursing can be a very stressful profession. It requires a high level of compassion and empathy in difficult situations, not to mention long hours, frequent night shifts, or the risk of contracting contagious diseases. Some nurses might find that the challenges of the job begin to harm their mental health. This experience is common, and it can be very distressing.

According to a 2022 study on mental health in nursing published by the Elsevier Public Health Emergency Collection, 44.6% of nurses surveyed reported experiencing moderate to severe depression, while 31.1% reported moderate to severe anxiety. Finding the appropriate resources to care for one’s mental health is an important process. One of the best ways for nurses to manage their mental health is by practicing good self-care. Read on to learn more about why self-care is important, what it looks like on a practical level, and how to customize self-care systems.

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Nursing Specialties with the Highest Salary

Deciding which nursing specialty to pursue is a major moment in a nurse’s career, and deserves a lot of thought and research. There are currently almost 100 nursing specialties across the United States, each one with different requirements, skills, education, responsibilities, etc. The right nursing specialty, one that a nurse is truly passionate about, helps alleviate the burnout of working many-hour shifts at all times of the day. When considering a specialty, nurses have a number of factors to examine including their technical interests, career and personal goals, and the current nursing shortage.

One important area to consider, however, is the salary. This guide will cover the nursing specialties with the highest salary and an overview of each nursing specialty.

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The nursing profession is one of the fastest-growing and most popular career fields in the 21st century. Rising incomes and an aging population have resulted in increased demand for qualified nurses. Adding to this demographic shift, many regions face a shortage of nurses in specific specialties such as critical care and labor and delivery. Despite this immense opportunity, many prospective nurses believe that it takes a substantial amount of time and money to enter the field. However, thanks to new technologies and the ever-evolving educational environment, prospective nurses can choose quicker routes into nursing than ever before. However, it is essential to note that different nursing paths have varying education, time commitment, and licensing and certification requirements. As a result, before deciding on a path, you should reflect on what type of nursing or specialty you want to pursue. We will cover these paths and their pros and cons below.

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NURSEEDUCATOR.COM  is dedicated to advancing the nurse educator profession. Their goal is to empower aspiring nurse educators with the knowledge, tools, and resources they need to pursue fulfilling careers in nursing education.

Online Nurse Educator Degrees and Programs

For those that enjoy nursing and teaching, becoming a nurse educator could be the ideal opportunity to pursue a fulfilling career. Online nurse educator degrees and programs provide a way for nurses to obtain the education they need, allowing them to advance their skills and make a difference in the community. Aspiring nurse educators will need to already have obtained a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) and hold an active RN license before they can pursue a specific nurse educator degree, which is only available at the graduate and doctoral levels.

There are several degree routes for those interested in becoming nurse educators. Depending on the student’s prior education level, they may opt for a master’s degree, a post-master’s certificate, or a doctorate such as a DNP, Ph.D., or Ed.D. Learn more about each degree type below:

Read More

NURSEPRACTIONERONLINE.COM  is dedicated to advancing the nurse educator profession. Their goal is to empower aspiring nurse educators with the knowledge, tools, and resources they need to pursue fulfilling careers in nursing education.

Complete Online Nurse Practitioner Guides

Does Medicare Cover Durable Medical Equipment?

Medicare covers DME under the following conditions:

• It must be deemed medically necessary, needed to diagnose or treat an illness, injury, condition, disease, or its symptoms and meet accepted standards of medicine.
• It must be ordered by your health care provider, and your provider must be enrolled in Medicare.
• It must be provided by a supplier that is enrolled in Medicare.

Medicare Advantage Plans may have additional requirements for DME coverage, such as using network providers and obtaining prior authorization.

Learn More

What Parts of Medicare Cover Durable Medical Equipment?

Medicare covers DME under Part A if it is used as part of your hospital or skilled nursing facility stay or if you are in hospice. Medicare Part B covers medically necessary DME and supplies for use in the home and a long-term care facility. DME benefits are available to you whether you have Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage Plan.

Learn More

Who Is Eligible for Medicare Coverage of Durable Medical Equipment?

You must have Original Medicare Part B (medical insurance) to get DME coverage for use in the home or long-term care setting. You must have Original Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) to get DME that is included in your hospital or skilled nursing facility stay. Your health care provider must write an order for your DME and may have to document why it is medically necessary for you. Your doctor and your supplier must be enrolled in Medicare.

You must be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B to join a Medicare Advantage Plan. As an enrollee, you are eligible for DME coverage according to your plan’s rules about how to obtain it.

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What Durable Medical Equipment Does Medicare Cover?

Medicare covers DME that is medically necessary. Your DME must be ordered and supplied by providers and suppliers enrolled in Medicare. Medicare has strict requirements for suppliers, and they must have a Medicare supplier number, or Medicare will not pay.

Medicare coverage and payment for DMEPOS items can be complicated because there are so many types of equipment and devices available. For instance, there are more than five types of air mattress or bed overlays to prevent bedsores if you are confined to a bed. Your Medicare supplier should know what Medicare will pay for and what documentation is required from your physician.

In January 2021, Medicare established the DMEPOS Competitive Bidding Program, which adjusts the amount Medicare pays for certain DMEPOS. Under this new program, suppliers submit bids to provide certain items and supplies to people with Original Medicare living in, or visiting, competitive bidding areas. Medicare uses these competitive bids to set the amount it pays for each item and only awards contracts to suppliers who are screened thoroughly. Currently, the only DMEPOS included in the program are off-the-shelf back and knee braces. If you have Original Medicare, you must get these braces from a contract supplier if you live in a competitive bidding area. Your supplier must accept the Medicare-approved charge.

Here are lists of what Medicare covers, separated into two categories: DME and supplies, and prosthetics and orthotics. Below each item is information about what is covered, what may be excluded from coverage, and your costs.

Learn More

How Much Does Durable Medical Equipment Cost?

Most DMEPOS are covered under Part B. You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount (if your supplier accepts assignment) after you pay your annual deductible ($233 in 2022). Medicare pays for different kinds of DME in different ways. Depending on the type of equipment:

• You may need to rent the equipment, for instance, a hospital bed or oxygen concentrator.
• You may need to buy the equipment, for instance, most prosthetics or orthotics.
• You may be able to choose whether to rent or buy the equipment, depending on your Medicare supplier.

Original Medicare will only cover your DME if your doctors and DME suppliers are enrolled in Medicare. Suppliers who participate in Medicare must accept assignments. Doctors and suppliers have to meet strict standards to enroll and stay enrolled in Medicare. If your doctors or suppliers aren’t enrolled, Medicare won’t pay the claims they submit. Find Medicare equipment and suppliers here.

If you have a Medigap plan to supplement Original Medicare, your costs for most DME items are covered after you meet your annual Part B deductible. Plans K and L pay a percentage of your Part B coinsurance up to an out-of-pocket max of $6,620 and $3,310 respectively in 2022. You must pay a monthly premium for a Medigap plan. If you don’t have a Medigap plan with Original Medicare, there is no limit on what you may spend for DME.

Medicare Advantage Plans must cover DME according to Medicare guidelines, but your cost-sharing will be different. You may have an annual deductible and pay either copays or coinsurance for DME. You must follow your plan’s rules regarding network providers and prior authorization requirements, or your plan may not pay. Medicare Advantage Plans have an annual maximum out-of-pocket limit for Medicare-covered items ($7,550 in-network, $11,300 for in-network and out-of-network combined in 2022).

Learn More

What Are Your Options to Help Pay for Durable Medical Equipment?

Original Medicare plus Medigap

If you have a Medigap plan, your costs for Medicare-covered Part A and Part B services and supplies are more predictable. You pay the annual Part B deductible and your monthly Medigap premium. Most DME costs are covered. Find Medicare equipment and suppliers who accept Medicare assignments here. Visit Medicare’s site to find a Medigap plan available in your area.

Medicare Advantage Plan

If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan as an alternative way to receive your Medicare benefits, your DME is covered by your plan. Costs and copays vary, depending on your plan, but many offer standard DME at zero or low cost. You may pay a monthly premium and an annual deductible. Your DME options may be limited to in-network providers, and you may have to obtain prior authorizations before your plan will pay. Find out what your plan covers and what you pay in your plan’s Evidence of Coverage document.

Medicaid

If you qualify for Medicare and Medicaid due to low income and resources, Medicaid may help cover your DME costs. Contact your local State Medical Assistance (Medicaid) Office to see if you are eligible for financial assistance.

Bidding

If you need a back or knee brace, you may have access to the lowest possible cost if you live in a competitive bidding area. The program may expand its reach and include different types of DME in the future.

Secondhand

Your community secondhand medical supply store. Many communities have medical equipment and supply stores where people can donate new or gently used items. These items are then resold at reasonable prices to people who need them and can’t afford retail.

Learn More

Bones and Brain in Review was created for physicians and healthcare professionals who specialize in Physical and Neurological Medicine.  Our editorial staff conducts monthly scans of over 80 peer review journals to summarize the best of the current literature.

• Nursing Home STRONG ECHO provides regular videoconferencing learning sessions for any healthcare professionals working in long term care.   Nursing Home STRONG – Center for Older Adults (unthsc.edu)

• Geriatrics ECHO supports primary care providers in their efforts to care for older adults in the community through video conferencing sessions with case discussions.  HSC Geriatrics ECHO – Center for Older Adults (unthsc.edu)

• Online education modules are available anytime for any interested health professional.  Geriatric Continuing Education Modules – Center for Older Adults (unthsc.edu)

Performance improvement project (PIP) action plan templates

By Michaun Shetler  |  July 14, 2023  |  SNF/NF providers

Superior Health has created Performance Improvement (PIP) action plan templates to assist nursing facilities in decreasing hospitalizations caused by a healthcare acquired infection (HAI). Templates were created for COVID-19, Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI), pneumonia, sepsis and urinary tract infection (UTI).

The templates are in Word format so you can use them to meet the needs of your facility.

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Senior Care.com Aging Matters Scholarship

Sign up for AGE with PURPOSE, a weekly Newsletter offering bits of wisdom for folks 50 and over.

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SeniorCare.com

Retirement Planning Guide for Seniors

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Mental Health Resources for People About to Start Retirement

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Common Health Concerns for Seniors as They Age

Check the status of a disability application, print a benefit verification letter, request a replacement Social Security card and Medicare card and manage the benefits they already receive.

Create your personal my Social Security account today

A free and secure my Social Security account provides personalized tools for everyone, whether you receive benefits or not. You can use your account to request a replacement Social Security card, check the status of an application, estimate future benefits, or manage the benefits you already receive.

Open a my Social Security account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount for convenient, secure access to many of Social Security’s online services from home or on the go. Watch this video for more information.

Relaxation Techniques

View PDF

Nursing interviews

Questions & how to answer them

Looking to land a rewarding job as a nurse?

Preparing answers to the most common nursing interview questions is a good place to start. Take a look at our guide and prepare well in advance!Looking to land a rewarding job as a nurse? Preparing answers to the most common nursing interview questions is a good place to start. Take a look at our guide and prepare well in advance!

The most common nursing interview questions and answers

First up, it’s one of the most open-ended nursing interview questions: “Tell me about yourself.” When the interviewer utters these four words, they want to know what makes you right for the job and what you plan to bring to the table.

While it’s most likely the first thing a recruiter will ask you, this question requires an in-depth yet concise answer. You don’t want to do a whole soapbox speech, but you do need to let the interviewer know that you have what it takes to succeed.

2. “What makes you a good nurse?”

You’ve answered one of the most difficult nursing interview questions. Now it’s time to showcase your passion for the sector. When a recruiter asks you what makes you a good nurse, they are really asking what motivates you. Highlight the core reason you chose this career, the caring attributes you have, and any special skills you’ve got under your belt. Don’t be afraid to throw in some anecdotes to back up any of your claims here.

3. “What are your strengths?”

When we talk about nursing job interview questions, it’s important not to overlook the generic ones. Chances are, the recruiter will throw in the odd “ what are your strengths ” question to get a general feel for you as an employee. Here’s your chance to toot your own horn. For every skill that you list, be sure to back it up with some supporting evidence.

If you want to stand out from the crowd — and you absolutely do — include your Unique Selling Point (USP). What do you have that other candidates do not? For instance, you may have an in-depth knowledge of maternity care or end-of-life care. Be specific here!

Go to website to see all of the questions and answers….

Use template Go to website

All adults remember the times when they were recent college graduates far from understanding how to navigate the world of finance. We also know how important education is for students and how difficult their academic journey may be without the necessary funds.

To encourage young people to acquire proactive financial habits and help them overcome financial challenges, we introduce a scholarship contest and offer $1000 to spend on their educational purposes, like college books, tuition, loans, or equipment.

Go on reading for more details, and do not hesitate to apply by filling in a form on our website!

Scholarship Reward Description

Sharing your ideas about essential things with other people always requires courage, perseverance, and effort. We understand how powerful words are. If you want to be noticed and change the world for the better, take your chance to participate in our contest. We offer a scholarship for the most creative essay to foster young talented people to express their thoughts about actual world issues and ideas to overcome the biggest challenges of the 21st century.

We would like to see English-speaking candidates ready to show their best analytical and writing skills and present their essays related to one of the following areas:

• Human Rights and Different Types of Discrimination;
• Healthcare Problems and Mental Diseases;
• Climate Change and Pollution;
• Freedom of the Press and Disinformation;
• Reasons for Poverty and Ways to Fight It.

If you’re interested in these subjects, we invite you to share your ideas, choose a topic that resonates with your soul from the list below, and submit an application. We accept only one essay per person. We’ve made the process of submitting the application form easy and quick. You just need to follow the instructions on the website, insert the necessary personal data, and upload your paper created according to the requirements.

APPLY AND READ MORE HERE

Each scholarship will award $5,000 to 10 students with the most compelling ideas for addressing some of the biggest challenges in healthcare.

• GoodRx Helps Equity in Pharmacy Scholarship
  • For current or recently graduated pharmacy (PharmD) or pharmacy technician students (CPhT, PTCB)
  • Applications open May 16 – June 27

• GoodRx Helps Future Black Physicians and Physician Associates Scholarship
  • For current or recently graduated Black medical (MD, DO) or physician associate students (PA)
  • Applications open June 1 – July 13

• GoodRx Helps Nurses for Change Scholarship
  • For current or recently graduated nursing (LPN/LVN, ASN, BSN) or advanced degree nursing students (MSN, APRN, DNP)
  • Applications open July 5 – August 15

Eligibility requirements for the scholarships:

• Have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent)
• Self-identify as a person from an underrepresented population in the healthcare field

Students can visit www.goodrxhelps.org to learn more about and apply for the GoodRx Helps scholarships.

Amanda Kistler Scholarship Program (CDONA)

In order to promote the educational pursuits of our members in LTC nursing, and support the facilities where they work, the Board of Directors and the Scholarship Committee are pleased to announce the awarding of up to ten (10) scholarships each year to qualified individuals who would like to further their education by becoming certified as a CDONA to positively impact your practice in Long Term Care Nursing.

This scholarship opportunity is available to NADONA licensed nurses, who want to become certified in order to advance their nursing practice.  The certified nurse will use their knowledge to positively impact resident life.

Deadline: April 15, 2023

VIEW SCHOLARSHIP

Stephanie Carroll Scholarship

This scholarship has been established in memory of Stephanie Carroll, long-time valued NADONA employee. It will be awarded to a nursing student enrolled in an accredited nursing program who has chosen Long Term Care or Geriatrics as their practice area after graduation. Nursing students in an undergraduate or graduate program are also eligible to apply for this scholarship. The following guidelines have been developed for this scholarship.

DEADLINE TO SUBMIT SCHOLARSHIP IS April 15, 2023

VIEW SCHOLARSHIP

Lung Cancer Group

Mesothelioma Lawyer Center

Asbestos.net

Mesothelioma Guide:  Restoring Hope for Mesothelioma Patients

Sokolove Law  Diagnosed with Mesothelioma?  Speak with our legal team now

Speech Pathology Degrees.com

COVID-19 Vaccine Information Statement | CDC ~ 10/2023

COVID-19 vaccine can prevent COVID-19 disease. Vaccination can help reduce the severity of COVID-19 disease if you get sick.

RSV Vaccine Information Statement | CDC ~ 10/2023

RSV vaccine can prevent lower respiratory tract disease caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms.

RSV can cause illness in people of all ages but may be especially serious for infants and older adults.

• Infants up to 12 months of age (especially those 6 months and younger) and children who were born prematurely, or who have chronic lung or heart disease or a weakened immune system, are at increased risk of severe RSV disease.
• Adults at highest risk for severe RSV disease include older adults, adults with chronic medical conditions such as heart or lung disease, weakened immune systems, or certain other underlying medical conditions, or who live in nursing homes or long-term care facilities.

RSV spreads through direct contact with the virus, such as droplets from another person’s cough or sneeze contacting your eyes, nose, or mouth. It can also be spread by touching a surface that has the virus on it, like a doorknob, and then touching your face before washing your hands.

Symptoms of RSV infection may include runny nose, decrease in appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever, or wheezing. In very young infants, symptoms of RSV may also include irritability (fussiness), decreased activity, or apnea (pauses in breathing for more than 10 seconds).

Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious, resulting in shortness of breath and low oxygen levels. RSV can cause bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lung) and pneumonia (infection of the lungs). RSV can sometimes lead to worsening of other medical conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (a chronic disease of the lungs that makes it hard to breathe), or congestive heart failure (when the heart can’t pump enough blood and oxygen throughout the body).

Older adults and infants who get very sick from RSV may need to be hospitalized. Some may even die.

INFLUENZA

InFLUencer Playbook (MAT-US-2202965)

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Prevention and Control of Seasonal Influenza with Vaccines: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, 2022–23 Influenza Season

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The National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (NPIAP) is an independent not-for-profit professional organization dedicated to the prevention and management of pressure injuries. Formed in 1986, the NPIAP Board of Directors is composed of leading experts from different health care disciplines— all of whom share a commitment to the prevention and management of pressure injuries. With our focus on pressure injury prevention and management, the NPIAP serves as a unique resource to health care professionals, the government, public, and health care agencies. The NPIAP welcomes and encourages the participation of those interested in pressure injury issues through utilization of NPIAP educational materials, participation at national conferences, and support of efforts in public policy, education and research.

FreeGrantsForVeterans

Health Care for U.S. Veterans

[Partner content] In this first episode of A Spoonful of Sugar, experts explore staffing’s impact on skilled nursing operations. When admissions from hospitals and the community plummeted during COVID, nursing home occupancy crashed. Despite some gains in 2021, occupancy stood at 75% in September. A return to pre-pandemic rates is still far off, but the virus is no longer the only culprit. Projected financial losses are leading to staff cuts in settings already plagued by vaccine mandates and retention challenges. And fewer workers mean fewer beds. That’s because the loss of direct care workers reduces the number of residents a facility can safely admit without having quality levels suffer. In fact, nearly 60% of nursing homes are limiting new admissions due to shortages. This is the first in a year-long series of podcasts sponsored by PharMerica.

LIVE SPOONFUL OF SUGAR PODCAST On DONs and Administrators working better together, in partnership with PharMerica

An Open Letter To Administrators: DONs and administrators work toward the same goal. But it often seems they are miles apart, especially when it comes to ensuring nurses receive the tools and support they need. In this engaging and lively discussion, nurses will speak out about ways to improve the dynamic.

NADONA is proud to offer these great webinars. Increase your knowledge while getting needed CE as part of many states license requirements and requirement to renew certifications. These webinars may also be part of your corporations clinical ladders!

In order to receive CE for webinars, you must register individually and sign in to the webinar

VIEW WEBINARS

Survey Activity State by State

A Town Hall with DONs and Administrators Webinar

Presented by:

Julie Braswell Stafford, RN, LNHA, CDP, CDONA, CADDCT, FACDONA, IP-BC, CALN, Administrator, Chatham Nursing & Rehabilitation

Shari Carson, RN, BSN, LNHA, Vice President, NADONA

Mindi Estes, RN, BSN, Regional Director of Clinical Services, Mission Health Group

Brenden Garozzo, MA, LNHA, CALA, RHP, Senior Development Manager, Eventus Strategic Partners

Moderated by NADONA leadership, this forum will provide an overview of survey statistics since the CMS Phase 3 guidance was implemented in October and first-hand accounts from DONs and administrators from each region in the country on recent activity.

The panelists will share experiences from their states on what immediate jeopardy citations are being issued so attendees can understand common focus areas of surveyors as well as best practices for responding and steps facilities can take to address noncompliance.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify the number one citation issue in the nation under the new guidance

2. Discuss 2 areas (F-Tags) which have resulted in immediate jeopardy

3. Explain 2 best practices for responding to the survey issues

Our Mission

PharMerica is partnering with trail-blazing nurse leader organizations, including NADONA,  to provide critical information and insights for DONs and Clinical Consultants for enhanced outcomes, care excellence, and a bright future for nurses.

Discover the Tools You Need to Succeed

• Leadership Interviews
• Webinars, Podcasts & Videos
• Timely Topics
• Best Practices