Happy New Year and hope everyone is having a great start to 2015!

2014 was a great and challenging year not only for this blog but for healthcare in general.  In 2014, this blog turned five years old and I was very happy to have passed another milestone. Through this blog, I have met so many wonderful colleagues,  learned so much from them, and very grateful for their friendship.Honestly, there have been times when I didn’t have time to write a new post and yet, my blog visitors continues to increase. I am very thankful to all of you; very grateful to many who have been regular readers, and appreciate those who have left comments.  I am truly humbled and very honored by your support.  It is my hope that this blog will continue to provide you with valuable information regarding infusion nursing, vascular access and infusion therapy and healthcare news in general.

Here are the top ten most read blog posts in 2014!.

1. “Is there a difference? Osmolarity vs. Osmolality” – These terms have always been confusing. In infusion therapy, particularly with Fluids and Electrolytes and IV solutions, these two terms certainly have  important roles and understanding each term will be helpful to us.

2. “Q&A:PICC vs Midline” – a blog the difference between the two vascular access devices. Knowing where the tip is positioned is key for positive outcomes when caring for patients with vascular access devices.

3. “Calculating and counting drops”  – do you still remember how to calculate and regulate IV drip by gravity? If you have forgotten, read this blog.

4. “Nurse…my IV hurts!!” – a blog about a legal case when a patient complaint about their IV site was ignored.

5.  “The Phlebitis Scale does mean something..” – A blog about the two phlebitis scales nurses can use to assess the degree and severity of phlebitis.

6. “Infusion by Gravity Drip” – my blog on calculating IV rates for gravity drip..do you remember how?

7. “Just say No”… This is about avoiding the antecubital fossa when starting IV’s.

8. “My IV Infiltrated” – a blog about infiltration and how to prevent this common complication.

9. “Nurses + Artificial Nails = Bacteria” – my blog about artificial nails and the potential danger for our patients.

10.  “Vesicants: not just chemo agents” – read about non-chemo medications and solutions that have vesicant properties as well and can cause extravasation.

May 2015 bring lots of luck, happiness, joy, wealth, good health, and more blog posts!! Cheers!!