This article explores the use of physician extenders in the pediatric ICU setting. The Libby Zion case is highlighted because of its impact on the use of manpower in the hospital setting. The history of physician extenders, including the hospitalist, physician assistant (PA), and nurse practitioner (NP), is discussed. Findings indicate a positive impact within the pediatric intensive care setti...

The purpose of this research was to determine if patient satisfaction differed when clinical services were provided by nurse practitioners versus physicians in the occupational health setting. This convenience sample included 129 patients visiting community-based occupational medicine clinics for evaluation of a new work-related injury. There was high satisfaction with both nurse practitioner a...

UNLABELLED One of the most controversial issues in anesthesia is whether nonmedically directed nurse anesthetists are relatively more cost-effective than anesthesiologists in the provision of anesthesia care. We electronically surveyed anesthesia practices throughout the United States to estimate the range in anesthesia professional costs from the payer perspective. Using this survey data on an...

As a surgery attendant passed a scalpel to the surgeon, the surgeon simultaneously reached for it; they bumped hands and the attendant’s left index finger was cut. A physician and nurse completed a c-section and were cleaning the patient. As the nurse reached back for a towel, she was cut by a scalpel held by the OR technician. An attending surgeon was assisting the primary thoracic surgeon wit...