WORKING EXPERIENCE WITH A NEW VACUUM-ACCELERATED MICROWAVE HISTOPROCESSOR

Methods of microwave and vacuum-accelerated fixation, dehydration, and paraffin embedding are described, using a new type of vacuum and temperature stabilizable microwave histoprocessor: MFX-800. The whole histoprocessing cycle lasts 3·5–5·5 h, depending on the thickness of the tissue blocks. Well-preserved structural detail, intense staining, and good antigen preservation were achieved with various tissues. This new histoprocessing facility is recommended for routine pathology laboratories interested in speeding up their processing procedures.     

The Prevention of Eating Disorders: A Review of the Research on Risk Factors With Implications for Practice

TOPIC: Eating disorders are a significant health problem among children and adolescents. A synthesis of recent research findings on the risk factors for eating disorders describes prevention strategies for practice. PURPOSE: To present research findings on risk factors for eating disorders that specifically relate to prevention for advanced practice. Current investigations are reviewed and critiqued for biologic, psychological, family, and sociocultural risk factors. A critique of the research and findings from important studies describes strategies for prevention of eating disorders for advanced practice. SOURCES: Published literature and clinical and research expertise of the author. CONCLUSIONS: Identifiable risk factors for eating disorders are found in children as well as adolescents. Findings from risk factor research provide the advanced practice nurse strategies for prevention of eating disorders. Few prevention programs exist; even fewer have been tested. An important clinical and research focus for advanced practice nurses is the prevention of eating disorders.     

Immunizations for Women and Infants

The use of vaccines has been instrumental in reducing the incidence and severity of many different diseases. The Healthy People 2000 program lists improving immunization rates as one of its top goals. However, the national immunization rate falls far below the national goal. As health care providers, it is important to understand the age-specific immunization recommendations and contraindications.     

Fetal Surgery: Exploring the Challenges in Nursing Care

The diagnosis and treatment of fetal abnormalities before birth remain formidable challenges. Prospective parents have several options upon discovery of a fetal abnormality, and nurses play an important role in helping the family through the decision-making process. A case study focusing on the care of a fetus diagnosed with a congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation is presented to illustrate the role of the nurse in providing comprehensive, expert care. Advances in obstetric and neonatal technology continue to create controversy; however, the use of research and evidence-based practice will improve the outcomes for the children of tomorrow.     

Subtalar dislocation without associated fractures: Case report and review of literature

Isolated subtalar dislocations are unusual injuries due to the inherent instability of the talus. Subtalar dislocations are frequently associated with fractures of the malleoli, the talus, the calcaneus or the fifth metatarsal. Four types of subtalar dislocation have been described according to the direction of the foot in relation to the talus: medial, lateral posterior and anterior. It has been shown that some of these dislocations may spontaneously reduce. A rare case of a 36-year-old male patient who sustained a closed medial subtalar dislocation without any associated fractures of the ankle is reported. The patient suffered a pure closed medial subtalar dislocation that is hardly reported in the literature. Six months after injury the patient did not report any pain, had a satisfactory range of motion, and no signs of residual instability or early posttraumatic osteoarthritis. The traumatic mechanism, the treatment options, and the importance of a stable and prompt closed reduction and early mobilization are discussed.