Published on:

By

A recent investigation by CNN has unveiled a number of questions surrounding the use of Nuedexta in nursing homes. Nuedexta is a drug approved by the FDA to treat PBA (pseudobulbar affect), a condition which causes sufferers to experience uncontrolled laughing or crying. Nuedexta use has increased 400% in the past four years in nursing homes and long-term care facilities, even though only about 1% of the overall population is affected by PBA, according to researchers.

Pills_counting-300x214

At one facility CNN investigated, about a quarter of residents were given Nuedexta. In that and other nursing homes, CNN investigators found that staff had been speaking to doctors and psychiatrists who were funded by Nuedexta’s manufacturer. In some cases, the psychiatrists and doctors issuing the medication were linked with Nuedexta’s manufacturer. Investigators suggested that the drug could be used to help control patients who were a challenge due to dementia and other disorders, but pointed out that there is no research suggesting how Nuedexta might impact the elderly or how it might work with patients who have dementia but not PBA. The drug has not been approved for those uses.

Continue reading →

Published on:

By

There are many forms of nursing home neglect and abuse which can be seen in nursing homes in Hollywood and other parts of Florida. Unfortunately, over the past month we have seen the unfolding tragic events at the Rehabilitation Center at Hollywood Hills, where eleven residents have passed away after being left without air conditioning following Hurricane Irma.

Fieberthermometer-300x225

That matter is now under criminal investigation and it has left many families in Florida wondering whether their loved ones are safe in nursing homes. In Florida heat, air conditioning and cooling systems are a necessity, especially in nursing homes. Elderly residents may not have the mobility or ability to seek cooler temperatures for themselves. Some may not have the mobility to get cool glasses of water. At the same time, pre-existing medical conditions or medication side effects may make them more susceptible to heat-related conditions.

Continue reading →

Published on:

By

On the surface, office jobs in Hollywood and South Florida seem much safer than many other workplace options. There is no heavy machinery, the way there might be in an industrial environment. There aren’t the risks associated with construction or forestry work. Despite this, office workers in Hollywood and across Florida do face hazards in the workplace and each year workers in these seemingly “safe” environments end up seriously injured or even killed on the job.

800px-Cubicle_land-300x225

Some of the most common problems in an office environment include repetitive strain injury, musculoskeletal injuries, fractures, vision problems, and lacerations. Common risk factors for office employees include:

Continue reading →

Published on:

By

Many teens want after-school jobs to save for college and to be able to afford trips and other “extras.” Parents often encourage a teen’s desire to get a job, since work can build a strong work ethic, discipline, and responsibility. It can look good on college applications and resumes and even let students get a head start on a future career.

Un_dollar_us-300x225

While there are many benefits to part-time work, there are risks, too. Young people have a higher-than-average rate of workplace injuries in Hollywood and across the nation. When your child is looking for work, whether they are considering an office job or babysitting, you need to consider safety first.

Continue reading →

Published on:

By

Despite many efforts, sexual assault and sexual violence remains a serious problem in Florida, with about one in six women in Florida having been raped in their lifetime and 20.4% of Florida men suffering a form of sexual abuse other than rape.

OVC_SM_ENG-1-300x300

If you are the survivor of sexual violence in Hollywood or in Florida, there are many places you can turn:

Continue reading →

Published on:

By

When couples learn that they are expecting a child, they are often jubilant with the news. It is an exciting time and many families and look forward to sharing a lifetime of memories with their children.

Eco_-_12_semanas-300x213

Unfortunately, birth injuries can rob a family of these treasured moments. Birth injuries are often preventable and can be caused by issues such as incorrect use of forceps, delays in performing a C-section, excessive force when extracting a child and other common mistakes.

Continue reading →

Published on:

By

At this time of year, many students and parents are excited about new school routines, new classrooms, and a whole new school year. While school is meant to be an education and safe space for children, however, children are seriously injured each year on school grounds and when walking to and from school.

college hazing

This is a good time to review safety tips with your child and to introduce a few smart safety practices to your child’s routine to enjoy a whole year of safer classes:

Continue reading →

Published on:

By

UCLA researchers have reported that teenagers need more sleep than adults, because they are at an important stage of development. According to the National Sleep Foundation, only about 15% of teenagers polled slept 8.5 hours or more per night.

Windup_mpalarm_clock-300x261

This is a dangerous situation, since fatigue can affect motor control, response times, cognitive development and performance, and more. Teens who aren’t getting enough sleep may have a harder time concentrating in class or meeting their full potential academically. They may also feel achy and generally terrible. Lack of adequate sleep can also contribute to mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and other conditions.

Continue reading →

Published on:

By

As children get ready to go back to school, this is a great time to year to review anti-bullying strategies and safety tips with your kids. As children start thinking about the new school year, those who have been victims of bullies may be feeling dread and fear. In addition, statistically, many children will be bullied. Even if a child has not encountered hurtful words or actions before, they may encounter them this year. Arming them with the resources they need to prevent or cope with these situations can be a big help.

800px-DPSCamera_0763-School-bus-Atlanta2-300x225

As a parent, there are several things you can do:

Continue reading →

Published on:

By

Now that the new school year is upon us, many of us are thinking about back-to-school. While children look forward to spending time with their friends in classes and shopping for back-to-school items, this is also great time to talk about school safety.

college hazing

While schools do much to keep children safe, children spend a lot of time in school and any type of negligence which can affect your child’s safety can lead to serious injuries. A few preventative measures today can help ensure your child stays safe:

Continue reading →