Nearly half of advanced-dementia residents in nursing homes receive antibiotics during the last two weeks of life, but it remains unclear whether such treatment helps, authors of a new study say. Pain from administering the drugs intravenously, as well as unwanted side effects, are among the chief concerns.

Alpharma has announced the availability of the Fletcor Patch. The adhesive patch delivers medication directly to the pain site, offering a safe and effective alternative to widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, according to the firm.

The nation's top lawmakers are learning more about new monitoring, personal health record and brain fitness technologies for seniors during a special briefing and demonstration today.Senators from the Special Committee on Aging; the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee; and the Medical Technology Caucus are hosting the event to discuss and explore what type of support is needed to promote technological advances that can help our nation's aging population.

Donna Sardina, RN, MHA, WCC, President, Wound Care Education Institute