Category: Healthcare professions

According to the Infusion Nurses Society, IV therapy is a medical procedure that requires a licensed healthcare professional to administer. So, who is qualified to administer an IV? The answer depends heavily on the specific medical setting and state regulations.

According to numerous healthcare studies, a significant number of medical errors are caused by poor communication among healthcare teams. A foundational element of this communication, and a key factor in improving patient safety, is understanding **what is the purpose of reporting an observation to the nurse**. This critical process ensures that any changes in a patient's condition are addressed swiftly and effectively.

Despite significant overlap in many primary care roles, medical doctors (MDs) receive an average of 12,000–16,000 hours of clinical training during medical school and residency, compared to 500–1,500 hours for nurse practitioners (NPs). Understanding what can't a nurse practitioner do that a doctor can is essential for navigating the healthcare system and making informed choices about your care.

According to the National Institutes of Health, accurate vital sign assessment is the critical first step in any clinical evaluation. So, **who is responsible for taking patients' vital signs**? In a clinical setting, several trained healthcare professionals share this foundational duty, each playing a critical role based on their qualifications and the patient's level of care.

While it's a common misconception, a **PA/C be called a doctor** is a misrepresentation of their role. A Physician Assistant or Physician Associate (PA) is a highly trained and certified medical professional, but their education and scope of practice are distinct from those of a Medical Doctor (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO). Understanding these differences is crucial for patients to have a clear picture of their healthcare team.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, an optometrist (OD) is a doctor of optometry, while an ophthalmologist is a medical doctor (MD) who specializes in eye and vision care. This comprehensive guide explores the distinctions and similarities to answer the question: Is an OD as good as an MD?