What is Adhesive Arachnoiditis?

Adhesive Arachnoiditis (AA) is a condition where some of the membranes surrounding the brain, spinal cord, and nerve roots are inflamed. The condition currently has no cure, but the symptoms can be managed with medications, physical therapy and individualized care.

Please visit www.arachnoiditishope.com for more complete information and the work of Dr. Tennant, MD who is a participant in our patient’s care with Dr. Pedersen.

What is a Nurse Practitioner?

According to the International Council of Nurses:

A Nurse Practitioner/Advanced Practice Nurse is a registered nurse who has acquired the expert knowledge base, complex decision-making skills, and clinical competencies for expanded practice, the characteristics of which are shaped by the context and/or country in which s/he is credentialed to practice. A master's degree is recommended for entry level.

Necessary Education:

Educational preparation at advanced level

Formal recognition of educational programs preparing nurse practitioners/advanced nursing practice roles accredited or approved

Formal system of licensure, registration, certification and credentialing

Nature of Practice and Scope:

Integrates research, education, practice and management

High degree of professional autonomy and independent practice

Right to diagnose

Authority to prescribe medication

Authority to prescribe treatment

Authority to refer clients to other professionals

Case management/own case load

Advanced health assessment skills, decision-making skills and diagnostic reasoning skills

Recognized advanced clinical competencies

Provision of consultant services to health providers

Plans, implements & evaluates programs

Recognized first point of contact for clients

In the state of Arizona, a Family Nurse Practitioner (or Advanced Practice Nurse), is able to practice to the full scope of practice, independently, as noted according to the International Council of Nurses.

What is Primary Health Care?

Primary Health Care focuses on the overall health of an individual. This includes all of the standard practices you’d find at a physician’s office, including health promotion and the prevention and treatment of disease.

What exactly ARE Hormone Treatments?

During puberty, our bodies produce hormones that help us develop physical and reproductive maturity. As we get older, the amount of these hormones decreases more and more. Hormone Therapy provides your body with the hormones it is no longer producing, making you feel livelier and healthier.