Quick Guide to Laboratory Values Use this convenient cheat-sheet to help you monitor laboratory values related to fluid and electrolyte status. Remember, normal value ranges may vary according to techniques used in different laboratories.  

Recognizing and Managing Influenza In the northern hemisphere, the typical influenza season starts as early as October and can last until May, affecting individuals in all age groups, with the highest rates of infection among children. The highest rates of serious morbidity and...

Cranial Nerves The brain is in continuous communication with almost all the cranial nerves (CN) through the spinal cord. The cranial nerves arise directly from the brain – the first two nerves arising from the cerebrum and the remaining ten emerging from...

Melanoma Melanoma is a malignant tumor, typically of the skin, that is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Melanomas often begin as small, harmless-looking lesions with irregular borders, which progress to irregularly hyperpigmented...

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is caused by compression of the median nerve along the carpal tunnel with symptoms such as numbness, tingling, hand and arm pain, and muscle dysfunction (Kothari, 2021a). CTS is a common disorder affecting...

Well-Woman Exam The well-woman examination is a medical exam offered to women to review and assess their reproductive health. It is also an excellent opportunity to contribute to the overall health and well-being of women throughout the lifespan. The well-women...

Amenorrhea The menstrual cycle is an important indicator of a woman’s health. Disruptions of this cycle are a common complaint seen by both women’s healthcare and primary care providers. Amenorrhea is the absence of menses and can occur for a...

Affirming Care for LGBTQIA+ Patients A 2021 Gallup update on lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) identification found 5.6% of U.S. adults identify as LGBT (Jones, 2021). This population has complex health needs and experience health disparities such as higher rates of...

Pulmonary Assessment Focused pulmonary assessment begins with a thorough health history. While doing so, carefully observe for conversational dyspnea and other symptoms. Order of examination is performed as inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation.Optimal...