Straight A Nursing

In this episode, we dive into one of the key aspects of mental health nursing: recognizing and understanding defense mechanisms. These psychological strategies, often unconscious, help individuals cope with reality and its stresses.  As nurses, it’s crucial to help patients gain self-awareness by identifying when these defense mechanisms are at play, which in turn can improve their understanding of their own behaviors. Recognizing when defense mechanisms are at play can prevent manipulation, foster greater insight, and lead to better outcomes for both nurse and patient. ___________________ Full Transcript - Read the article "Defense Mechanisms in Mental Health" and view references FREE CLASS - If all you've heard are nursing school horror stories, then you need this class! Join me in this on-demand session where I dispel all those nursing school myths and show you that YES...you can thrive in nursing school without it taking over your life! Study Sesh - Change the way you study with this private podcast that

This episode breaks down hypertensive crisis - what it is, how to recognize it, and the steps nurses can take to manage it effectively. You’ll learn the two main types of hypertensive crisis: hypertensive urgency and hypertensive emergency, and get tips on how to assess for signs of organ damage. Key takeaways include: Definition and parameters for hypertensive crisis Tips for getting an accurate blood pressure Factors that can cause a falsely elevated reading Signs of end-organ damage Medications used to treat hypertensive crisis ___________________ Full Transcript - Read the article and view references FREE CLASS - If all you've heard are nursing school horror stories, then you need this class! Join me in this on-demand session where I dispel all those nursing school myths and show you that YES...you can thrive in nursing school without it taking over your life! Study Sesh - Change the way you study with this private podcast that includes dynamic audio formats that help you review and test your recall

I’m swapping podcast episodes this week with Kati Kleber from FreshRN and I could not be more excited about what she is sharing with you! In this mega episode, which aired originally on the FreshRN podcast, Kati shares a bounty of communication tips that you’ll find helpful whether you’re brand new or a seasoned nurse with years of experience at the bedside. This episode includes: How to talk to your nursing colleagues, CNAs, and medical unit receptionists when your urgency level changes or you have challenges working together Learning what everyone on the healthcare team actually wants to know when they need a patient update (PT, OT, ST, Case Management, Social Work, medical team, and more!) Cool vs. not cool ways to handle things  Simple things you can do and say to look and feel more comfortable as the patient’s nurse Tips on delivering tough news and how to be in those big moments while holding it together and being a strong but caring presence for your patient How to engage with your own family and

In today’s episode, we cover four common cases of acute confusion (delirium) in hospitalized patients. While these scenarios provide insight, remember that any confusion should be thoroughly evaluated to find the underlying cause. Phyllis: A 76-year-old post-surgical patient becomes confused after surgery. Learn how medications, missed meals, and beta blockers played a role in this situation. Stanley: An 84-year-old man becomes disoriented after receiving two commonly used medications.  Bob: A 64-year-old COPD patient experiences confusion and has a very restless night. Meredith: A 53-year-old woman arrives at the ED with confusion and signs of a serious infection. Press play on this episode to dive into these scenarios and see common ways confusion occurs in the clinical setting. ___________________ Full Transcript - Read the article and view references FREE CLASS - If all you've heard are nursing school horror stories, then you need this class! Join me in this on-demand session where I dispel all those

In this episode, I'm breaking down the concept of first-pass metabolism, also known as the first-pass effect, and why it’s important for nurses to understand. You’ll learn how medications are metabolized, why bioavailability matters, and how the first-pass effect impacts drug dosing and effectiveness. We also discuss common medications affected by this process and how it influences the choice of administration routes. Listen to this episode and you’ll learn: What first-pass metabolism is - Get a brief overview of how PO medications are metabolized in the liver before reaching systemic circulation The basics of bioavailability - Learn how bioavailability measures how much of a drug reaches systemic circulation and why IV medications have higher bioavailability than oral medications. Some common medications affected by first-pass metabolism - Bring this concept to life with medication examples including nitroglycerine and diazepam. Nursing implications - Discover how understanding first-pass metabolism help

Hypothermia occurs when the body temperature drops below 35°C (95°F), causing the body to lose more heat than it generates. While it's commonly linked to exposure to cold environments, it can also result from medical conditions or medications. In this episode you’ll learn:  How the body regulates temperature - The hypothalamus controls body temperature, but what happens when things go wrong? Learn how the body fights to stay warm and why certain conditions and behaviors can disrupt this process. Medical and medication causes of hypothermia - Did you know conditions like hypothyroidism, hypoglycemia, or burns can cause hypothermia? Certain medications, including antipsychotics and opioids, can also impair your body’s ability to regulate temperature.  Signs and symptoms of hypothermia - From mild confusion and shivering to severe cardiac arrhythmias and coma, hypothermia manifests in different stages. Discover the early warning signs and understand when it becomes a medical emergency. What’s the best way to

In this episode, we delve into catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI), a common hospital-acquired infection with serious implications. We’ll explore how these infections occur, their prevalence, risk factors, complications, and most importantly, strategies for prevention. Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI) are one of the most commonly reported hospital-acquired conditions, and have a big impact on length of stay, cost, and mortality.  Length of stay - According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, a CAUTI increases length of stay by 2 to 4 days. Cost - On average, the cost of treating a CAUTI can range from $900 to $14,000 per case which accounts for an estimated $340 to $450 million per year in the United States. Since most cases of CAUTI are preventable, Medicare and Medicaid do not reimburse hospitals for these costs.  Mortality - In critically ill patients, the mortality rate for CAUTI is 30%. It is estimated that more than 13,000 patients die each year due

In this episode, we dive into the critical topic of ectopic pregnancies, a condition where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus. With 2% of all pregnancies affected, this is a medical emergency that nurses and healthcare professionals must be prepared to assess and treat. Key Takeaways: What is an ectopic pregnancy? - Learn about the different types of ectopic pregnancies, including tubal, interstitial, cervical, and more. Risk Factors - Discover the risk factors that increase the chances of an ectopic pregnancy, such as previous ectopic pregnancies, IVF, history of endometriosis, and others. Signs and Symptoms - Explore the signs of an ectopic pregnancy and how to assess for more serious complications like tubal rupture. Tests - Get familiar with key tests utilized to evaluate a patient with ectopic pregnancy. Treatment Options - Learn about the medical and surgical treatments for ectopic pregnancy. Join us as we walk through critical nursing interventions for ectopic pregnancies to ensure saf

In this episode, we explore the essential aspects of pain management, focusing on eight commonly used pain medications nurses should know. We break down the updated analgesic ladder, which guides healthcare providers in selecting the right pain relief strategy based on the severity of the pain—from non-opioid options to strong opioids and even non-pharmacologic interventions. We also discuss the pros and cons of non-opioid medications like acetaminophen, ketorolac, and gabapentin, and explain when and why opioids are used. With opioid medications, understanding concepts like equianalgesic dosing is crucial, especially considering the risks of oversedation, respiratory depression, and other side effects. Tune in to get a comprehensive overview of pain management strategies, learn critical safety considerations, and discover how to apply these principles in your clinical practice. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of pain medications and improve patient care. _______

In this episode, we dive into osteomyelitis, a serious bone infection that can b e difficult to identify. We’ll explore what makes it different from cellulitis, why it’s tricky to treat, and what healthcare professionals need to watch for. From common causes and risk factors to the crucial steps for assessment and treatment, this episode is packed with insights that will help you recognize and manage osteomyelitis with confidence. We also break down the LATTE method to give you a structured approach to patient care, making it easier to remember key details. Whether you’re a seasoned nurse or just starting out, you’ll find practical tips and critical information you can apply in your practice. ___________________ Full Transcript - Read the article and view references FREE CLASS - If all you've heard are nursing school horror stories, then you need this class! Join me in this on-demand session where I dispel all those nursing school myths and show you that YES...you can thrive in nursing school without it takin

Cellulitis is a dermal infection that occurs when bacteria enters the body through a break in the skin. It is a very common condition and one that will definitely show up in clinical and on exams! In this episode you’ll learn:  The causes of cellulitis as well as risk factors Cellulitis complications Clinical presentation of cellulitis What to focus on with your assessment Tests used to evaluate a patient with cellulitis Cellulitis treatments Important patient education ___________________ Full Transcript - Read the article "Cellulitis" and view references FREE CLASS - If all you've heard are nursing school horror stories, then you need this class! Join me in this on-demand session where I dispel all those nursing school myths and show you that YES...you can thrive in nursing school without it taking over your life! Study Sesh - Change the way you study with this private podcast that includes dynamic audio formats that help you review and test your recall of important nursing concepts on-the-go. Free

Something many new nursing students struggle with is understanding how to write SMART objectives for their care plans or clinical homework assignments. With this overview, you’ll soon be writing SMART objectives like a pro! ___________________ Full Transcript - Read the article and view references FREE CLASS - If all you've heard are nursing school horror stories, then you need this class! Join me in this on-demand session where I dispel all those nursing school myths and show you that YES...you can thrive in nursing school without it taking over your life! Med Surg Solution - Are you looking for a more effective way to learn Med Surg? Enroll in Med Surg Solution and get lessons on 57 key topics and out-of-this-world study guides. Confident Calculations - Learn a foolproof method for performing dosage calculations so you can pass your nursing school math exams on the first try! Crucial Concepts Bootcamp - Start nursing school ahead of the game, or reset after a difficult first semester with my nursing school

Pediatric clinicals are so different from adult Med-Surg clinicals that it’s helpful to know a few things in advance so you can get the most out of this valuable experience. In this episode you’ll learn: How to customize your plan of care based on the child’s developmental stage A quick way to estimate hypotension in children The importance of weight-based calculations Key differences between an adult and a pediatric airway What a child in distress looks like Tips for assessing a child in the clinical setting ___________________ Full Transcript - Read the article "Peds Clinical Tips" and view references. FREE CLASS - If all you've heard are nursing school horror stories, then you need this class! Join me in this on-demand session where I dispel all those nursing school myths and show you that YES...you can thrive in nursing school without it taking over your life! Study Sesh - Change the way you study with this private podcast that includes dynamic audio formats that help you review and test your recal

I’m wrapping up my summer “Ask Me Anything” series with an episode bursting with great tips and advice! In this episode you’ll learn:  The epic battle between physical books and e-books continues…what are the pros and cons of each?  Where to rent e-books for much less than the cost of purchasing them Key things that will help you stay focused with online classes How to prepare for pharmacology class Why you can still thrive in nursing school even with severe math anxiety ___________________ FREE CLASS - If all you've heard are nursing school horror stories, then you need this class! Join me in this on-demand session where I dispel all those nursing school myths and show you that YES...you can thrive in nursing school without it taking over your life! Confident Calculations - Learn a foolproof method for performing dosage calculations so you can pass your nursing school math exams on the first try! Crucial Concepts Bootcamp - Start nursing school ahead of the game, or reset after a difficult first semest

Over the years I have seen nursing students struggle, and I have seen nursing students thrive. And what has become clear is that students who struggle tend to make the same five mistakes over and over again. So, if you want to avoid struggling unnecessarily in nursing school, I’m sharing five common mistakes of new nursing students…and what to do instead! ___________________ Full Transcript - Read the article and view references FREE CLASS - If all you've heard are nursing school horror stories, then you need this class! Join me in this on-demand session where I dispel all those nursing school myths and show you that YES...you can thrive in nursing school without it taking over your life! Crucial Concepts Bootcamp - Start nursing school ahead of the game, or reset after a difficult first semester with my nursing school prep course, Crucial Concepts Bootcamp. Learn key foundation concepts, organization and time management, dosage calculations, and so much more. New Nursing Student Checklist - Start preparing f

In this “Ask Me Anything” episode, I’m answering some common questions about nursing school: What’s the difference between working in the ER, Tele and ICU? What are the “must-have” supplies for clinical? What’s the difference between A&P 1 and A&P 2? What’s the difference between subjective and objective? ___________________ FREE CLASS - If all you've heard are nursing school horror stories, then you need this class! Join me in this on-demand session where I dispel all those nursing school myths and show you that YES...you can thrive in nursing school without it taking over your life! Crucial Concepts Bootcamp - Start nursing school ahead of the game, or reset after a difficult first semester with my nursing school prep course, Crucial Concepts Bootcamp. Learn key foundation concepts, organization and time management, dosage calculations, and so much more. Clinical Success Pack - One of the best ways to fast-track your clinical learning is having the right tools. This pack includes report sheets, sheets

Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity that causes abdominal distention. It is a common complication of cirrhosis but can also occur in other conditions such as cancer, heart failure, tuberculosis, and dialysis. Ascites can lead to significant problems for your patient, including respiratory compromise, hypotension, and even peritonitis. Hit play on this episode to learn:  The pathophysiology of ascites Signs and symptoms of ascites Ascites diagnostic tests Complications of ascites Ascites treatment And, to wrap it all up, we’ll go through an ascites case study together! ___________________ Full Transcript - Read the article and view references  FREE CLASS - If all you've heard are nursing school horror stories, then you need this class! Join me in this on-demand session where I dispel all those nursing school myths and show you that YES...you can thrive in nursing school without it taking over your life! Med Surg Solution - Are you looking for a more effective way to learn Med Su

In this special AMA series, I’m answering your questions about nursing school! Here’s what I’m answering this week:  How do you make a successful transition from an unlicensed to a licensed role? How do I get past my shyness and nervousness in clinical? How do you make a realistic study plan for exams? Why would a patient be on both heparin and warfarin in the hospital? ___________________ FREE CLASS - If all you've heard are nursing school horror stories, then you need this class! Join me in this on-demand session where I dispel all those nursing school myths and show you that YES...you can thrive in nursing school without it taking over your life! Crucial Concepts Bootcamp - Start nursing school ahead of the game, or reset after a difficult first semester with my nursing school prep course, Crucial Concepts Bootcamp. Learn key foundation concepts, organization and time management, dosage calculations, and so much more.  LATTE Method Template - Download the free LATTE Method Template so you can streaml

Many patients with type 2 diabetes take oral antidiabetic medications, either as monotherapy or in conjunction with other oral antidiabetic medications or insulin. It’s important you are able to recognize these medications as their use increases the risk of hypoglycemia, especially when taken with insulin.  This episode provides a brief overview of each of the oral antidiabetic medications with a few key things to know about each one. Sulfonylureas (ex: glipizide) Biguanides (ex: metformin) Thiazolidinediones (ex: pioglitazone/Actos) Meglitinides (ex: repaglinide) DPP-4 inhibitors (ex: sitagliptin/Januvia) Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors (ex: acarbose) SGLT2 inhibitors (ex: canagliflozin/Invokana) Dopamine agonist (ex: bromocriptine/Cycloset) ___________________ Full Transcript - Read the article and view references FREE CLASS - If all you've heard are nursing school horror stories, then you need this class! Join me in this on-demand session where I dispel all those nursing school myths and show you tha

In this special AMA series, I’m answering your questions about nursing school! Here’s what I’m answering this week:  How do I prepare for critical care and mental health nursing? What supplies are must-haves for my school bag?  What is nursing school math like? Is it possible to work while in nursing school? ___________________ FREE CLASS - If all you've heard are nursing school horror stories, then you need this class! Join me in this on-demand session where I dispel all those nursing school myths and show you that YES...you can thrive in nursing school without it taking over your life! Nursing School Time Calculator - Use this calculator to determine how much spare time you have while in nursing school! Crucial Concepts Bootcamp - Start nursing school ahead of the game, or reset after a difficult first semester with my nursing school prep course, Crucial Concepts Bootcamp. Learn key foundation concepts, organization and time management, dosage calculations, and so much more.  LATTE Method Template - D