Chemicals used to keep hospitals clean and to treat patients could be harmful to nurses who are exposed to them in their daily duties, according to a study released by the Environmental Working Group and Health Care Without Harm. The chemicals could have long-term effects on nurses' health and the health of their children, according to the research.
The Pennsylvania Senate has voted to extend a malpractice insurance subsidy for doctors and hospitals through 2008, but has rejected an effort to divert a surplus from a malpractice reserve fund to pay for adult health insurance.
The Washington, DC, City Council has givem initial approval to legislation that would make the District the first jurisdiction in the country to license pharmaceutical sales representatives. The move is a blow to the prescription drug industry, and could have national implications if states follow the Washington, DC's lead.
Holtz Children's Hospital at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center have marked the completion and dedication of part of its newly renovated Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. The new section is now named the Project: New Born Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and better allows the facility to deliver patient care and provide a more comforting environment for patients and families, according to officials.
Registered nurses set to strike at 13 Sutter Health hospitals in California should be prepared to be out of work longer than the planned two-day walkout, officials from the medical centers said. Most of the hospitals, with the exceptions of at least California Pacific Medical Center and St. Luke's hospital, plan to hire replacement workers for longer than just two days and lock out participating nurses for the remaining time.