3.5 minute read

HUDDLE

Happy Fri-YAY, Readers!

Bookworms assemble! Many of you responded to my last intro and said that you still find time to read for pleasure. That makes my bibliophile heart sing, so thank you for all of your responses!

While we’re on the subject: what’s your beverage of choice while reading? Coffee is my go-to…or hot chocolate. 😌 Let me know yours here.

Today's Top Beats

💊 Liver-Damaging Supplements
🦠 Double Dip Risks

❤️‍🩹 Mothers Need Help

HANDOFF

Liver-Damaging Supplements to Avoid

Drug-induced liver injury from herbal and dietary supplements is on the rise in the US, with supplements being responsible for at least 20 percent of liver toxicity cases. While many people assume these products are safe because they’re natural, high doses or combinations—especially with ingredients like turmeric, green tea extract, ashwagandha, Garcinia cambogia, red yeast rice, and black cohosh—can overwhelm the liver. Experts urge caution, as supplements are not reviewed by the FDA and adverse effects are often only recognized after harm occurs.

When Double-Dipping Is Risky

Double-dipping can indeed spread bacteria and viruses from your mouth to a shared dip, but the risk of illness may lower than you thought. Studies show more bacteria appears in double-dipped salsa compared with chocolate or cheese dips due to its lack of viscosity, which allows more dip touching the bitten cracker to fall back into the bowl—but salsa’s high acidity reduces bacteria over time. Importantly, most common illnesses aren’t spread through food, the strong exception being norovirus. Experts say the concern is more about etiquette than health.

Mothers Need Help

There’s been a sharp decline in American maternal mental and physical health from 2016 to 2023, a new study found. Only 25.8% of mothers reported “excellent” mental health in 2023, down from 38.4% in 2016 (the rate of those reporting “good” or “fair/poor” health rose slightly). Physical health also worsened, particularly among vulnerable groups. Poor maternal mental health can ripple across generations, affecting childbirth complications, early childhood development, and the long-term physical and mental health of children.

TOGETHER WITH B. BRAUN

The Nurse Ensuring Your New Equipment Works Day One

Before new IV pumps or vascular access products arrive at your hospital, Linda Marshall, RN, has already spent months planning every detail of the implementation. As a Clinical Conversion Specialist at B. Braun, she transforms complex equipment transitions into seamless and intuitive experiences by applying her frontline nursing perspective.

Her method is both strategic and practical: securing leadership buy-in, creating accessible learning materials, solving logistical challenges, and developing flexible training options that fit busy clinical schedules.

This Nurses Month, B. Braun celebrates professionals like Linda who bridge the gap between innovation and implementation, ensuring that new technology truly serves both patients and clinicians. Read Linda's full story about bringing nursing expertise to medical device implementation.

TODAY'S TOP VITAL

30%

The percentage of medical visits that may be conducted via telehealth by 2026. Click here to learn about the barriers to and impacts of telemedicine adoption.

NURSE ON-CALL

FINANCE FRIDAY WITH NETWORTH NURSE

What Nurses Need to Know About Rising Interest Rates

Interest rates are still high, and if you're carrying debt, thinking about refinancing, or planning a big purchase like a car or home, that matters. Here’s what nurses should know:

• Credit card APRs are climbing. The average rate is now over 20%, making it more important than ever to pay off balances quickly or avoid new high-interest debt.

• Student loan repayment resumes this fall. Federal loans started accruing interest again in September. Review your repayment options now to avoid late fees or unexpected bills.

• Savings accounts are stronger. High-yield accounts are offering 4–5% APY, making this a good time to park your emergency fund in a smarter spot.

The takeaway? Rising rates aren’t all bad—but they call for sharper, more intentional financial decisions. As a nurse, staying proactive helps protect your peace of mind and your paycheck.

Did you miss our last newsletter? Click here.

SUPPLY ROOM

That's The Key

This personalized keychain would make a great gift for a new grad nurse!

BREAK ROOM

Healthy Mac

“Honey butter garlic chicken mac and cheese” may sound unhealthy to you, but think again. Check out this easy and surprisingly healthy, protein-rich recipe that will satisfy your cravings and maintain your nutrition goals!

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS

We all know the nurse staffing crisis spans the nation…but can you guess which state is currently most affected? Find out here. 🩺

YOUR BEAT. YOUR VOICE. OUR FUTURE.