OCTOBER 2019 • Volume 12, No.10

From the Editor

Join us for our annual stroll down a dark and scary path littered with dried leaves skittering in the cold wind, with the occasional black cat passing by.

Yes, it’s the annual Halloween Edition, and we’ve gathered some medical stories for you that are unsettling if not downright creepy.

Back home, make this year’s Halloween a little less scary with some non-sugary Halloween treats.

We also have a new crossword puzzle, the monthly Jobs list and NIFA’s favorite links.

Take care, and watch out for goblins!


Julie Lancaster, Editor

Pumpkin Twins photo: David Menidrey


News

Dissecting terror: How does fear work?

Amygdala, cortisol and epinephrine, oh my! This article breaks down the bloodcurdling biology behind fear. Our bodies’ reactions when we get spooked are to thank for our success as a species, so read on… if you dare…

3 creepy crawlies that may revolutionize health

Humans may be born with a fear of spiders, but these creepy crawlies may hold keys to improved health. From wasp venom to cockroach brains, insects and arachnids are being used in clinical research.
Read more . . .

Nine terrifying medical treatments from 1900 and their safer modern versions

Treating arthritis with a tall glass of radium water and hemorrhoids with an loop tool called an ecraseur were treatments used in the early 1900s. In this article learn more about common prescriptions from the past.
Read more . . .

Tool photo: Wellcome Library, London


Spooky Treats with No Added Sugar

There are hundreds of recipes available for sweet Halloween treats, but if you want to counteract the trick-or-treat madness with something a little more substantial, try these: Mummy Pizzas, Sweet Potato Jack-o’-lanterns, Spooky Spider Deviled Eggs, and Spooky Spider Snack.


Crossword Puzzle: Patient Skin Antisepsis

Test your knowledge of patient skin antisepsis with this month’s all-new crossword puzzle.

When you’re ready to check your answers, follow this link to see how well you did. Good luck!


Jobs Front

Click here for the RNFA job postings we’ve collected for you this month.


NIFA – Office Hours

Monday-Thursday, 8:00am – 4:00pm
Friday, 8:00am – 3:00pm


Practice Resources

Here are several of the most-in-demand sites for our students, prospective students and grads:

MD Edge Surgery News: Specialty News and Commentaries, Videos and More
RNFA Scope of Practice by State (PDF)
ACS List of Cases that Require an Assistant at Surgery, 2018 (PDF)
Perioperative Nurse Links (state nursing boards & professional associations)
APRN Nurse Links

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this newsletter are strictly those of their respective authors and do not necessarily represent the views of NIFA. NIFA does not give any express or implied warranty as to the accuracy of statements made by our contributors and does not accept any liability for error or omission. It is the responsibility of all perioperative personnel to work within and adhere to their facility bylaws and individual scope of practice.

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