Imaging

Clinic A/P, adults, Hospital A/P, Adults

The American College of Radiology (ACR) has developed appropriateness criteria that recommend modalities for various clinical problems. When to Order Contrast-Enhanced CT: http://www.aafp.org/afp/2013/0901/p312.html suspected Aortic Dissection The ACR recommends CT...

Heparin Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT)

2nd INPATIENT, Hospital A/P, Adults

HIT occurs in 5 % of patients exposed, regardless of the dose, schedule, or route of administration. HIT is caused by an autoantibody directed against platelet factor 4 (PF4) in complex with heparin. HIT antibodies activate platelets and can cause catastrophic...

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN)

Hospital A/P, Adults

“Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is associated with a rapid and often irreversible decline in kidney function following the administration of iodinated contrast agents. CIN is the third leading cause of acute kidney injury (acute renal failure) in...

Delirium (Confusional States / Altered Mental Status)

Clinic A/P, adults, Clinic A/P, Peds, Hospital A/P, Adults, Hospital A/P, Peds

Diagnosis Definition: Delirium vs. dementia. Diagnosis is made clinically using the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM). The first step in the diagnosis delirium is to r/o underlying medical causes. H&P performed. Meds reviewed. No focal or lateralized neurologic...

Pressure Ulcer Prevention

Hospital A/P, Adults

Turn patients at least every 2 hours to prevent pressure ulcers. The layers of sheets and linens should be minimized. The maximum elevation of the head of the bed should be 30°, to prevent shearing. Lubricating oils and creams should be used to decrease friction. If...

Nutritional Status

Clinic A/P, adults, Hospital A/P, Adults

What is the best laboratory test for assessing an acute change in a patient’s nutritional status? “Prealbumin is the single best laboratory test for assessing nutritional status in acutely ill patients because serum concentrations change relatively quickly in...