For years, surgery has been viewed as a definitive treatment for specific types of urinary incontinence. These conditions, particularly stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and incontinence linked to pelvic organ prolapse, exemplify this point. However, the notion that surgery is the only way to treat UI is a significant oversimplification of the available therapeutic landscape.  Urinary incontinence affects more women than many realize, with 24% to 45%…

Hospital readmissions are a persistent concern in healthcare systems worldwide, often reflecting deeper patient care and discharge planning issues. Swift readmissions following discharge negatively impact patient well-being, burden healthcare facilities, and escalate expenses. According to a JAMA Network study, the rate of hospital readmissions among older adults is 11.6% within the first 30 days. This increases to 27.6% when considered after 180 days of hospital discharge.…

Undergoing a gastrointestinal procedure can be a source of significant anxiety for many patients. The combination of uncertainty about the procedure itself, potential discomfort, and concerns regarding the outcomes can create a heightened state of stress.  Understanding and addressing these feelings is crucial, not only for patient comfort but also for improving overall outcomes. In this article, we will explore effective strategies and interventions designed to…

Starting your first job as a licensed nurse is a moment filled with pride, anticipation, and no small amount of nerves. After years of coursework, exams, and practical exposure, stepping into a professional environment can feel like both an achievement and a challenge. The transition from student to practicing nurse doesn’t happen overnight, but there are ways to make that shift more manageable. During nursing school,…

In a world where technology often dominates healthcare conversations, the value of human connection remains irreplaceable, especially in clinical careers rooted in empathy.  According to the World Health Organization, the global health sector is expected to face a shortfall of 11 million workers by 2030. This shortage will be felt most acutely in low- and lower-middle-income countries. With women making up 67% of the health and…

Clinical research has changed faster than ever. What once relied heavily on traditional trials now includes digital tools, AI-powered diagnostics, and real-time data from patient records.  A study published in PMC underscores that digital tools are applied at different stages of the research process. Most people involved in the research had positive opinions about these tools. They believe digital tools help make research work faster and…

Nursing, often viewed as a rewarding profession, is chosen for numerous reasons. Some people are inspired to enter this profession due to personal or family experiences. Others are looking for diverse career opportunities. However, all nursing professionals have a deep-seated desire to serve their community in meaningful ways.  Another contemporary reason why nursing is seeing so many entrants has to do with the workforce crisis. The…

Healthcare diagnoses do not always follow a linear path. Symptoms may be too subtle to point towards a major disease, or they may overlap with different conditions. Ignoring subtle symptoms is comparable to neglecting a small crack in a dam. It may seem harmless at first, but the crack can widen with time into a catastrophic failure.  Diagnostic errors are essentially a blind spot for healthcare…

What does mindfulness mean to you? Is it being aware of how you react to a situation or a person?  Maybe you’ve had a patient who was agitated or scared. The more questions you asked, the more distressed they became. Were you mindful of what led them to you? Perhaps a traumatic event or a triggering experience sparked the flame.  As a healthcare professional, you provide…

Aspiring nurses often find developing clinical competence a demanding and complex process. Many wonder how to build strong foundational knowledge while mastering essential practical skills. The pressure to stay confident while delivering safe and effective patient care can feel overwhelming.  What strategies can help nursing students improve their clinical abilities and adapt to fast-paced healthcare settings? How can they prepare for the challenges of real-world patient…

A clinical career can be rewarding, but many struggle to find long-term satisfaction. Some healthcare roles offer stability but lack growth or meaningful impact.  How do you choose a path that avoids burnout and keeps you motivated? What training and skills will support your ambitions over time? Is there a way to balance flexibility with steady career progress? What factors really matter when building a career…

Healthcare systems, no matter how advanced they get, will always need nurses. In many cases, these systems need strong leaders in nursing roles to ensure maximum efficiency. This is especially true when the nursing sector lacks adequate resources. The US, for instance, is dealing with a shortage of nurses. The country needs over 275,000 additional nurses by the time 2030 comes around. Sadly, the shortage of…

Image by CDC on Unsplash If you are a registered nurse, becoming a family nurse practitioner (FNP) can be an excellent way to advance your career and make a deeper impact on patients’ lives across all age groups. As an FNP, you can diagnose conditions, prescribe medications, and provide comprehensive care in different settings, including clinics, hospitals, and private practices. Let’s explore four tips to help…

Photo courtesy of Freepik Endoscopy nursing is a combination of technical skills, patient care, and quick thinking. Whether you’re helping with a colonoscopy, titrating sedation for an upper GI procedure, or soothing an anxious patient, the job involves a special skill set that’s not in the textbook.  For nurses, acquiring these skills is about building a foundation to allow you to excel in high-stress environments where…

Photo courtesy of Unsplash Choosing the right Nurse Practitioner program is an important step toward advancing your nursing career and expanding your scope of practice. With the growing demand for skilled healthcare providers, these programs have become increasingly diverse. They offer a wide range of specializations and formats. However, not all programs are created equal; so, finding one that matches your goals, lifestyle, and professional aspirations…

Photo by MedicAlert UK on Unsplash Balancing a demanding nursing career while pursuing advanced education can seem daunting. However, online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs have revolutionized accessibility for working professionals. With strategic planning and the right support, you can excel academically while maintaining your professional responsibilities. This blog provides practical strategies to help you navigate this challenging but rewarding journey. Understanding the Flexibility of…

Current Impact on Credit Scores Medical bills don’t affect your credit score if paid on time. But if left unpaid and sent to collections, they can affect your score, though recent changes have reduced the risk. As of now, medical collections under $500, paid collections and collections less than a year old are not reported on credit reports. So only large, older unpaid medical debts will…