Good Morning, Readers!

This week is Transplant Nurses Week (April 21–28), and I wanted to take a moment to recognize the incredible nurses who guide patients and families through the complex and emotional transplant journey. From coordinating life-saving procedures to providing long-term care and support, transplant nurses are there every step of the way, with clinical expertise and endless compassion.

Their work may not always be in the spotlight, but its impact is profound. To all the transplant nurses out there: thank you for everything you do!

Today's Top Beats

☀️ Morning Routines
🧬 23%
💉 IV Bag Safety

Care Fiercely,
Raquél Pérez
Chief Operating Officer

HANDOFF

How the Trade War Could Affect Health Care

We can expect a number of casualties from the US-China trade war—our place as a global authority perhaps chief among them. But, experts worry that US health care, which already ranks last compared with other wealthy nations, could also take a significant hit. China processes almost all of the world’s rare earth minerals, vital materials for diagnostics and treatments like MRI scans and cancer therapies. With these minerals also critical for defense projects like missiles and drones, the US may have to choose between defense and health care.

Your “Meal Sequence” Matters

During a meal, perhaps you like to eat your veggies first before moving on to protein and carbs, or maybe you prefer to take little bites of each item in succession. Turns out, the order in which you eat your food—meal sequencing—actually matters. Starting meals with protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich vegetables before consuming refined carbohydrates or sugary foods can improve blood sugar control, prevent overeating, decrease cravings, aid weight loss, and even lower chronic inflammation. This can mean a lower risk of diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.

Morning Routines to Start the Day Right

You don’t have to complete a dozen activities every morning to start the day right, but following a good morning routine can set you up for success. What’s best for each person differs, but simple, consistent habits can boost mood, reduce stress, and improve daily performance. For example, making the bed can increase dopamine by reducing clutter (though doing so might also promote dust mites). Other habits we can all benefit from include hydrating, delaying caffeine until after eating, and exposing yourself to natural light with a quick walk.

TODAY'S TOP VITAL

23%

The increased 5-year dementia risk for someone who has an emergency room visit or hospitalization due to cannabis. Click here to learn other serious cannabis risks.

NURSE ON-CALL

MYSTERY Dx MINUTE WITH NURSE KEL

Mystery Diagnosis Minute

Hey everyone! In recognition of upcoming Mental Health Awareness Month in May, today’s bonus mystery diagnosis is, unfortunately, another disorder that is on the rise among nurses.

🩺 This disorder can have manifestations including nightmares and increased anxiety related to the type of nursing work performed, such as end-of-life care and critical care.

🩺 Nurses who work in outpatient settings are much less likely to develop this disorder when compared to their cohorts who work in inpatient settings.

🩺 This disorder can also couple up with burnout and affect a nurse’s life outside of their work environment and complicate their personal relationships and their overall view of life.

Think you know the answer? Click here to see if you’re right!