Noncutting methods of needle and syringe disposal

The time required of nurses to cut needles and syringes, the costs of boxes used to cut needles and store used syringes, as well as some of the costs related to treating needlesticks are discussed. A new method of utilizing a large box (3 X 13 X 31 inches) in a medication cart is described. The box is made of one-quarter inch cardboard and waxed. It is replaced daily and incinerated. The system is time-saving, economical, and should reduce the number of needlesticks.     

Alterations in wound healing secondary to infusion injury

Though uncommon, the occurrence of an extravasation of a tissue-toxic drug can be a very disconcerting event in the physician's practice. A wound specialist, such as a plastic surgeon, is frequently consulted. The author reviews the "state of the art" approach to these challenging wounds.     

The effect of midazolam on median nerve somatosensory evoked potentials

Objective. To quantify the effect of an induction dose of midazolam on median nerve somatosensory evoked potentials.Methods. We studied 10 patients undergoing lumbar spine surgery. After an induction dose of intravenous midazolam was given, MNEPs were collected for ten minutes. After ten minutes the patients were intubated and their anesthetic was supplemented with 0.5% isoflurane, narcotic, and N₂O.Results. We found a clinically significant decrease in amplitude and an insignificant delay in latency.Conclusion. When midazolam is used as an anesthetic induction agent, a decrease in amplitude can be expected.