Jodi Dusik-Sharpe | PubMed Health

PubMed2004

Kerry's story: the challenges of facing a recurrent craniopharyngioma.

Craniopharyngiomas account for approximately nine per cent of pediatric brain tumours and one to two per cent of adult brain tumours. Though considered benign, the compressive nature of these relentless tumours can produce catastrophic sequelae. This case study pays tribute to a 33-year-old woman who faced numerous surgeries, adjuvant therapy, and many of the complications associated with a craniopharyngioma. The interdisciplinary neuroscience team, along with colleagues from neuroradiology, ophthalmology, and endocrinology, joined together to care for Kerry and her family to meet their complex health and psychosocial needs. However, it was Kerry who taught us about perseverance, strength, and the power of an unconquerable human spirit.

Adaptation, Psychological↗

PubMed2003

Lumbar discectomy: developing and implementing a day surgery protocol.

In some centres, patients who require a lumbar discectomy are successfully discharged the day of surgery. With the ongoing pressure to provide safe care for patients within certain bed limitations, this option was considered. Using a continuous quality improvement method, a prospective review of patients undergoing a single-level lumbar discectomy was monitored. Based on pre-set criteria, patients were included or excluded in the day surgery protocol and both groups were monitored. A large component of nursing education was provided for all patients, and will be highlighted. Data retrieved for both groups included demographics, length of operation, length in recovery room, length of hospital stay required, and the re-admission rate. There were 47 patients monitored over 11 months. Of the 34 patients entered in the protocol, seven required an overnight length of stay. The reasons for the extended length admission will be described. Of the 13 patients excluded from the protocol, one did not require an overnight stay. Following review of the data, the criteria for inclusion of patients into the protocol has been altered and patients can safely proceed with day surgery for lumbar discectomy.

Adult↗