In this episode, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Our guests— Richard Pullen, EdD, RN and Virginia Holter, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC—join us to clear up the confusion around PSA testing, the role of digital rectal exams, and how new imaging technologies are changing the way we detect prostate cancer. We explore the risk factors that matter most, from age and race to genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and 2, obesity, and even environmental exposures. You’ll also hear about the complex decisions patients and physicians face together—from whether or not to get screened, to navigating treatment options such as active surveillance, prostatectomy, or high-intensity focused ultrasound ablation. Importantly, we tackle some often-overlooked topics, including impacts on sexual function and prostate cancer in transgender women. If you’re over 40, have a loved one at risk, or just want to understand the science and policy behind one of the most common cancers in men—this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, Jennifer Adamski DNP, APRN, ACNP-BC, CCRN, FCCM, President of the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN), discusses the value of professional nursing organization membership. She shares how these groups support nurses at every career stage by offering education resources; career development; and opportunities for leadership, networking, mentorship, and advocacy. Nursing organizations such as AACN continue to adapt to meet nurses’ evolving needs, offering both in-person and virtual resources. However, membership is more than access to benefits—it’s an investment in long-term growth, professional connection, and collective empowerment.

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In celebration of Nurses Month, in this episode, recently retired Chief Nursing Officer AnnMarie Papa, DNP, RN, CEN, NE-BC, FAEN, FAAN discusses how nurse leaders can mitigate critical issues facing nurses today, such as burnout, staffing shortages, workplace violence, and a lack of meaningful support. Supporting nurses with compassion is essential to the future of the profession. Rather than placing the burden of resilience on nurses, she advocates for nurse leaders to be authentic, present, and empathetic, asking staff what they truly need. Strong leadership involves humility, mutual elevation between staff and leaders, and tailored approaches that consider generational differences in learning and work preferences. AnnMarie also notes the need for systemic changes including violence prevention through risk assessment and legislation, trauma-informed care, and improved incident reporting processes. She encourages nurses to get involved in policy advocacy and to use storytelling—drawing from their own impactful patient experiences—as a powerful tool to influence change and affirm their purpose.

After listening, visit our topical collection on Nurse Wellness for the latest in research and thought leadership promoting self-care for nurses.

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Recent measles outbreaks across the US have reignited the need for clinicians and the public to understand this highly contagious virus. Although measles was declared eliminated in 2020, declining vaccination rates have led to a resurgence of cases. In this episode, Dottie Borton, an experienced RN consultant and infection preventionist, provides vital information on how nurses can recognize, prevent, and manage measles. The discussion covers the virus’s symptoms, transmission, and contagiousness; populations vulnerable to disease; and vaccination and postexposure prophylaxis. Immunization is paramount, and this episode offers advice for healthcare providers on how to handle potential cases and protect themselves and their communities.

For more information, read the related article in the December 2024 issue of Nursing, “Measles: More than just a rash.”

Learn about ECRI’s 2025 Top 10 Health Technology Hazards report, with experts, Patricia Giuffrida, Senior Patient Safety Advisor and Consultant at ECRI and the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) Patient Safety Organization (PSO); Priyanka Shah, Principal Project Engineer at ECRI ; and, Dr. Jeremy Suggs, Engineering Manager and Sr. Investigator in ECRI’s Device Safety Group. This episode focuses on key concerns from this report: Unmet technology support needs for home care patients, Fire risk in areas where supplemental oxygen is in use, and Incomplete investigations of infusion system incidents.

Check out helpful resources mentioned in this episode:

• ISMP, a non-profit that promotes safe medication practices, research, education, advocacy, and error reporting
• Report a device problem to ECRI

In this episode, we speak with noted criminal defense attorney Melissa Rosenblum about a case involving a nurse charged with manslaughter due to a medication error, and explore various legal challenges that impact nurses.

Audio and video podcasting for this episode by Tom Ritter at NichePodcastPodcast.com.

Elizabeth Hughes, DNP, AGPCNP-BC, Sharon Tymkiw, MSN, MBA, RN, and Karen M. Vuckovic, PhD, APRN, ACNS-BC join the podcast to explore biosimilars in patient treatment.

Be sure to check out their article in our December 2024 issue, “Biosimilars vs. originators: A comprehensive guide for nurses on efficacy, safety, and patient care.”

In this episode, we speak with Danielle Altares Sarik, PhD, APRN, CPNP-PC, a nurse scientist focused on pediatric nursing research. Dr. Sarik discusses her journey from bedside nurse to researcher, the role of research in advancing pediatric care, and her current projects.

Listen to this episode to learn about the challenges and rewards of nursing research and how findings in this field can impact healthcare for children and adolescents. This episode provides valuable insights for nurses interested in the intersection of practice and research.