What is Shingles? Shingles, or herpes zoster, is a viral infection that causes a painful rash. About 1 out of every 3 people in the US will develop shingles in their lifetime. Those that have had chicken pox, are at risk of getting shingles. ...
Resources
Clinical Insight
Influenza: Vaccinations and Antivirals
Preparing for the 2020-2021 Flu Season The CDC estimates that there were between 39,000,000 and 56,000,000 cases of the flu in the 2019-2020 flu season. With the unknown of how influenza and COVID with coexist, this flu season it is imperative to protect...
Use of Anxiolytics in LTC
Considerations Regarding the Use of Long-Acting Anxiolytics Beers list warns that older adults have increased sensitivity to benzodiazepines and decreased metabolism of long-acting agents; in general, all benzodiazepines increase risk of cognitive impairment,...
Medication Classes that Increase Sun Sensitivity
It’s Summertime! Below shares information on medication classes that increase sun sensitivity. The examples listed are not an all-inclusive list, we have include those most commonly utilized in LTC in each class. ACE Inhibitors Benazepril Captopril...
Baqsimi Glucagon Nasal Powder 3mg
Indication and Description BAQSIMI™ is indicated for the treatment of severe hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes ages 4 years and above. BAQSIMI contains glucagon, an antihypoglycemic agent used to treat severe hypoglycemia. Dosage in Adults and...
Key Points to Know About Cannabidiol, or “CBD”
Cannabidiol, or "CBD" What is Cannabidiol? Cannabidiol, also known as “CBD,” is becoming more and more popular in the US. Cannabidiol is a chemical found in theCannabis sativaplant, also known as hemp. CBD is the non-psychoactive part of the plant, whereas...
Steps to Using an Inhaler Properly
Proper Use of Inhalers Delivery of drugs via inhalation is an integral component in the treatment and management of patients with COPD and Asthma. As few as one-half to one-third of patients who are prescribed inhalers are using them correctly. Improper use of...
Antipsychotic Dose Equivalents
Second Generation Antipsychotics Antipsychotic Usage in Long Term Care Antipsychotics are used for a variety of indications in LTC. Sometimes, patients need to be switched from one antipsychotic to another for insurance reasons, efficacy, or adverse effects....
Guidelines on the use of Aspirin for Prevention of ASCVD
To use Aspirin, or not to use Aspirin - That is the Question Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US for those 65 years of age and older.As people age, their risk for clotting increases due to several factors: Decreased vasodilatory (widening of...
Preventing Flu in Nursing Homes (Bonus: Printable Guidelines!)
Flu prevention in long-term care facilities is nothing to take lightly. As you know, senior residents are especially vulnerable to flu and developing flu-related complications, like pneumonia. Not to mention, the 2017-2018 flu season was especially bad, killing more...