Managing Chronic Diseases in US Hospitals: The Role of Nurses and Essential Resources

Written By Emily Carter , BS, CPT

Summary

  • Hospitals in the United States face unique challenges in managing chronic diseases due to the growing prevalence of these conditions.
  • Nurses play a crucial role in the management of chronic diseases and require specific supply and equipment resources to effectively provide care to patients.
  • From medication management tools to patient education materials, having the right resources is essential for nurses to effectively manage chronic diseases in a hospital setting.

The Growing Challenge of Chronic Diseases in US Hospitals

Chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and asthma, are a significant burden on the healthcare system in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), chronic diseases are responsible for 7 out of 10 deaths in the country each year. The prevalence of these conditions is only expected to increase due to factors such as an aging population and unhealthy lifestyle habits.

The Role of Nurses in Managing Chronic Diseases

Nurses are on the front lines of patient care in hospitals and play a crucial role in managing chronic diseases. They are often responsible for providing ongoing monitoring, education, and support to patients with these conditions. Nurses work closely with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement treatment plans, monitor patient progress, and provide continuity of care.

Essential Supply and Equipment Resources for Nurses

Having the right supply and equipment resources is essential for nurses to effectively manage chronic diseases in a hospital setting. From medication management tools to patient education materials, these resources help nurses provide high-quality care to patients with chronic conditions. Below are some essential supply and equipment resources for nurses:

  1. Medication Management Tools: Nurses need access to tools such as medication carts, medication administration record (MAR) sheets, and electronic health record (EHR) systems to effectively manage medications for patients with chronic diseases.
  2. Vital Sign Monitoring Equipment: Accurately monitoring vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation, is essential for managing chronic diseases. Nurses require access to equipment such as blood pressure cuffs, pulse oximeters, and cardiac monitors to monitor these vital signs effectively.
  3. Patient Education Materials: Educating patients about their chronic diseases and treatment plans is crucial for successful management. Nurses need access to educational materials, such as pamphlets, videos, and web-based resources, to help patients understand their conditions and make informed decisions about their care.
  4. Durable Medical Equipment (DME): Patients with chronic diseases often require DME, such as wheelchairs, walkers, and insulin pumps, to manage their conditions and maintain their quality of life. Nurses must have access to DME and be knowledgeable about how to use and maintain this equipment for their patients.

Challenges in Accessing Supply and Equipment Resources

Despite the importance of supply and equipment resources for managing chronic diseases, nurses in US hospitals often face challenges in accessing these resources. Limited funding, inadequate staffing, and inefficient Supply Chain processes can all contribute to the lack of essential resources for nurses. Additionally, the rapidly changing healthcare landscape and advancements in technology can make it difficult for hospitals to keep up with the latest supply and equipment needs.

Strategies for Improving Access to Supply and Equipment Resources

To address the challenges in accessing supply and equipment resources, hospitals can implement the following strategies:

  1. Investing in Staff Training: Providing nurses with ongoing training and education on how to use new supply and equipment resources effectively can help improve access and utilization.
  2. Streamlining Supply Chain Processes: Optimizing Supply Chain processes, such as inventory management and procurement, can help ensure that nurses have the resources they need when they need them.
  3. Collaborating with Vendors: Building strong relationships with vendors and suppliers can help hospitals stay up-to-date on the latest supply and equipment offerings and negotiate competitive pricing.
  4. Seeking External Funding: Hospitals can explore external funding sources, such as grants and donations, to invest in new supply and equipment resources for managing chronic diseases.

Conclusion

Managing chronic diseases in a hospital setting presents unique challenges for nurses in the United States. Having the right supply and equipment resources is essential for nurses to effectively provide care to patients with these conditions. From medication management tools to patient education materials, ensuring that nurses have access to these essential resources is critical for improving patient outcomes and quality of care.

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Emily Carter , BS, CPT

Emily Carter is a certified phlebotomist with over 8 years of experience working in clinical laboratories and outpatient care facilities. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Pittsburgh, Emily became passionate about promoting best practices in phlebotomy techniques and patient safety. She has contributed to various healthcare blogs and instructional guides, focusing on the nuances of blood collection procedures, equipment selection, and safety standards.

When she's not writing, Emily enjoys mentoring new phlebotomists, helping them develop their skills through hands-on workshops and certifications. Her goal is to empower medical professionals and patients alike with accurate, up-to-date information about phlebotomy practices.

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