According to the United States Government Accountability Office, 64 rural hospitals closed between 2013 and 2017 (1). Since 2010, the number totals 120 across the U.S. (2). These hospitals were mostly (1): Located in southern states Medicare-dependent For-profit institutions Where are hospital closures taking place? Rural hospitals are being shut down because they are found […]
Use of Ondansetron (Zofran) During Pregnancy
Ondansetron, or the brand name Zofran, is a powerful antiemetic agent, or drug that is used to treat nausea and vomiting. It has commonly been used to treat nausea and vomiting resulting from chemotherapy, surgery, anesthesia, and radiation therapy (1). It is also used to treat nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (NVP, otherwise known as […]
10 Things to Know About Nuchal Cords:
The term “nuchal cord” refers to a condition in which the umbilical cord is wrapped around the fetus’s neck. An official diagnosis of “nuchal cord” only requires 75% of the neck to be wrapped by the cord. Sometimes, 360-degree imaging in utero may not be possible. There are three ways of classifying nuchal cords: First, […]
How Pitocin Misuse Can Lead to Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy
The drug Pitocin is a synthetic form of the hormone oxytocin, which (among other important roles) triggers the onset of labor. Pitocin can be administered intravenously to induce labor or enhance contraction activity. It is sometimes also used to control maternal bleeding after childbirth (1). While Pitocin can have notable benefits, its use in labor […]
Free Pregnancy and Child Development Health Apps
Pregnancy through a baby’s first couple years of life can be a very busy time. Many expectant and new parents opt to use apps to keep track of their health, their baby’s milestones, medical appointments, and other information. In this piece, we’ll cover a few apps that parents have chosen to use in conjunction with […]