3.5 minute read

HUDDLE

Good Morning, Readers!

On this day in 1912, Alan Turing was born. A brilliant mathematician, Turing is widely considered one of the fathers of modern computing and artificial intelligence. 

His work as a code breaker was instrumental during World War II and inspired the film The Imitation Game.

Today's Top Beats

☎️ 988 Changes
💊 Acetaminophen Update
📏 Gauging Longevity

HANDOFF

LGBTQ+ Youth Options to be Removed from 988

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline will end its LGBTQ+ youth-specific support services on July 17, sparking concern among advocates. The Trump administration’s 2026 budget proposal eliminates funding for these services, despite their use by nearly 1.3 million people since 2022. SAMHSA says the change aims to serve all callers without separating groups, but critics, including The Trevor Project, call it harmful and politically motivated. Studies show LGBTQ+ youth, especially transgender teens, face significantly higher suicide risks than their cisgender peers.

How Acetaminophen May Actually Work

Acetaminophen may relieve pain by producing a compound called AM404, which blocks pain signals at their source in the peripheral nervous system, a new study found. The compound, formed when acetaminophen is metabolized in the body, inhibits sodium channels on sensory neurons, preventing them from transmitting pain to the brain. The rat-based research challenges long-held beliefs about how the drug works—that it stops prostaglandin production—and could pave the way for safer, more effective painkillers. Scientists hope to refine AM404 for future use, particularly in treating chronic or nerve-related pain.

Simple Test to Gauge Your Longevity

Want to predict your longevity? Try a simple sitting-to-rising test. In a 12-year study, participants were scored on their ability to sit and rise from the floor without using hands, knees, or other support. Lower scores correlated with higher mortality, especially among those with heart disease. The test assesses balance, strength, and flexibility—key components of healthy aging. Experts say poor scores can serve as red flags, prompting interventions like weight and balance training to improve mobility and potentially extend life.

TODAY'S TOP VITAL

6 Months

The length of time between doses with lenacapavir necessary to prevent HIV contraction. Click here to learn why this 2024 “breakthrough” drug is a big deal.

NURSE ON-CALL

THAT REMOTE LIFE WITH NURSE FERN

Is CDI Nursing Right for You? 

“I have been working at a hospital doing UR for 2 years. I feel bored. I have 8 years of ICU experience and was looking at applying for a remote CDI position. Is there more growth opportunities, better salary in CDI?”

A combo of UR and ICU experience is chef's kiss for applying to CDI roles. I fully support finding the CDI department at your hospital and making sure they know who you are.

There are a lot of growth opportunities in CDI and this field does pay higher than some other non-bedside specialties.

ACDIS conducts yearly in-depth salary surveys. If you aren’t a member you can take a peek at the data from the 2018 survey.

A couple popular opportunities for CDI nurse growth: 

• CDI Educator 

• CDI Manager

• CDI Consultant 

• Second Level Reviewer

I’d start by making yourself a friendly nuisance to your local CDI department. 😊

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TODAY IN THE CHART

SUPPLY ROOM

I've Got It Covered

Protect your stethoscope and your neck with these cute stethoscope covers! 

BREAK ROOM

Mystery Lungs

How do you document your lung sounds when you are not completely sure of what you’re hearing on assessment? You won’t be able to guess how this hilarious nurse charts his lung sounds.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS

Curious to know your 10- and 30-year risk for heart attack, stroke, and heart failure? Check out this handy calculator to find out! 🫀

YOUR BEAT. YOUR VOICE. OUR FUTURE.