New Trial to Test Implantable Pacemaker for Serious Depression
(NEW YORK)Researchers at 20 leading medical centers in the US are testing a pacemaker-like device that may ease the symptoms of depression. Cyberonics, Inc., the device manufacturer, is currently awaiting approval form the Food and Drug Administration to begin clinical trials. The implanted device will stimulate a nerve that runs down the side of the neck. The nerve will be stimulated for 30 seconds, stop for 5 minutes, and begin again. Side effects of the stimulation include voice change, a sense that something is in the patient's mouth, and difficulty breathing during vigorous activity. For more information visit www.abcnews.com.
Beyond the Surface: Rethinking Environmental Hygiene Validation at Exchange25
June 30th 2025Environmental hygiene is about more than just shiny surfaces. At Exchange25, infection prevention experts urged the field to look deeper, rethink blame, and validate cleaning efforts across the entire care environment, not just EVS tasks.
A Controversial Reboot: New Vaccine Panel Faces Scrutiny, Support, and Sharp Divides
June 26th 2025As the newly appointed Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met for the first time under sweeping changes by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr, the national spotlight turned to the panel’s legitimacy, vaccine guidance, and whether science or ideology would steer public health policy in a polarized era.
Getting Down and Dirty With PPE: Presentations at HSPA by Jill Holdsworth and Katie Belski
June 26th 2025In the heart of the hospital, decontamination technicians tackle one of health care’s dirtiest—and most vital—jobs. At HSPA 2025, 6 packed workshops led by experts Jill Holdsworth and Katie Belski spotlighted the crucial, often-overlooked art of PPE removal. The message was clear: proper doffing saves lives, starting with your own.
