In Today’s Edition:

• Poll Validates Public View of Positive PA Contributions

• J&J Supports Nurse Executive Innovation Fellowship

• The Midwest Stays Hot - Wisconsin Revisits Full Practice Authority

• New Data Raises Concerns for the Safety of Melatonin

• The Truth About Booze - Not a Surprise

• Common Sugar Substitute Linked to MI and Stroke

• Who Doesn’t Need a Scholarship? Aspiring APPs, We Got You Covered

• Antidepressants for Pain Control? Yep. We Have Answers!

🩺 APP Trending News

A Recent Poll Validates PA Positive Contribution to Healthcare

According to a recent patient experience survey conducted by The Harris Poll, U.S. adults spend the equivalent of an entire eight-hour workday per month coordinating healthcare for themselves and/or their family or loved ones. Despite the time-consuming nature of managing healthcare, the survey also highlights the positive impact of Physician Associates (PAs). A significant majority of patients (91%) recognize that PAs provide safe and effective care, and 90% believe that PAs increase access to care, making it easier to get a medical appointment. These statistics demonstrate how PAs play a vital role in alleviating the burdens patients face in navigating the healthcare system.

Innovation Fellowship For Nurse Executives

Johnson & Johnson has launched a year-long fellowship program involving nurse executives and directors from 10 health systems and hospitals across the country. The participants will work in teams of two to address real problems within their systems using human-centered design, technology, and other approaches, Who better to problem solve than our colleagues on the front line!?

The Midwest Stays Hot (Metaphorically)

Last week we brought you news about Mayo Clinic avoiding legislation in Minnesota. This week we have news from Wisconsin as full practice authority is back on the table due to care shortages with the aging population and physician retirements.

⚙️ The More You Know

Concerns Rising For The Use of Melatonin

Between 2009 and 2020, there was a significant rise in emergency department visits associated with unsupervised melatonin exposures among children aged ≤5 years in the United States. The visits related to melatonin increased by 421.1%, highlighting a concerning pattern. Even more concerning, another study evaluating the quality of melatonin supplement products, found the actual quantity of melatonin ranged from 74% to 347% of the labeled quantity. Yikes.

That “Healthy Pour” Isn’t so Healthy 🍷

We came across this cute article which may just be good waiting room material. We dug into the science and JAMA did publish a robust meta-analysis that does link an association between moderate daily ETOH and all-cause mortality, which is greater in women. They do note daily consumption under 25g revealed no statistical difference in mortality… that is just under 1oz, or a tad over ½ shot if you were wondering. The analysis was not perfect but does suggest that the average “healthy” pour is not exactly healthy!

Common Sugar Substitute Linked to MI and Stroke

A growing body of evidence suggests that artificial sweeteners, including erythritol, may have negative health effects and be worse for you than table sugar. Research has shown that high levels of erythritol in the blood are associated with an increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. Erythritol is commonly used as a low-calorie sweetener in processed foods, including sugar-free products, and it may be challenging to avoid as it is not always listed on nutrition labels. Choosing whole foods and moderate amounts of natural sugars like table sugar or honey may be a safer option until further long-term studies are conducted on the safety of artificial sweeteners.

In the article, Stanley Hazen, MD, PhD states “The very people who are being targeted for foods that contain erythritol are the same people who already are at increased risk for cardiovascular events, so this is very concerning.” Literally look at anything labeled “sugar free” or “zero calories.” It’s frightening.

💡Inspiration for Aspirations

📈Future APPs

The PA Foundation: Did you know they offer scholarships?

Scholarships from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing

🧪Clinical Conundrums: Because We Love a Challenge!

Last Week’s Clinical Conundrum Answer: Duloxetine

Duloxetine is FDA approved for major depression, diabetic neuropathy, and fibromyalgia and is an excellent adjunct to a pain medication regimen for the treatment of chronic pain. Why? We got you covered.

Duloxetine is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). While originally developed as an antidepressant, it has also been found to be effective in managing certain types of chronic pain. Here are a few reasons why duloxetine is considered beneficial for pain control:

1. Modulation of Neurotransmitters: Duloxetine works by increasing the levels of two neurotransmitters, serotonin and norepinephrine, in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a role in regulating pain signals and mood. By enhancing their availability, duloxetine can help modulate pain perception and provide pain relief.

2. Central Nervous System Effects: Duloxetine acts on the central nervous system, specifically targeting pain pathways. It is thought to reduce pain by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine, which leads to increased levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain. This modulation of neurotransmitters can help dampen pain signals and alleviate discomfort.

3. Long-Term Pain Management: Duloxetine is often prescribed for chronic pain conditions that require long-term management. It can provide sustained pain relief and improve overall functioning and quality of life in individuals with chronic pain.

4. It's important to note that duloxetine may not be suitable for everyone, and its use should be determined by a healthcare professional based on an individual's specific condition and medical history.

🔎ICYMI

You Won’t Find Us Gaslighting About Content from Last Week

• Avoid Medical Gaslighting…yes, it’s a thing

• The PAEA Announces a Call to Action for a more diversified workforce

• Is Mayo Clinic Buying Out of New Legislation to Ensure Safe Nurse Ratios?

• Look No Further, We Have a Comprehensive List of FREE CME to Fulfill the New DEA Requirements

• Aspiring, New, or Experienced APP? Mentorship is for Everyone

• Your Inspiration for Aspirations: Meet Dr. Marlo Miller, PA-C, Entrepreneur, and All-Around Inspiration!

• Take a poll, pick the medication best medication for patients with chronic pain

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