-
Underscoring the importance of its new infection control standards for 2005, the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations has decided to roll out the new requirements on a consultative basis for hospitals being surveyed from July to December of this year.
-
A third case of vancomycin-resistant Staphylo-coccus aureus (VRSA) has occurred in the United States, opening up the distinct possibility that the much-feared superbug will continue to emerge. Though little was known about the case as this issue went to press, Hospital Infection Control was able to confirm that it occurred in a patient in New York.
-
In February, the FDA approved a new monoclonal antibody for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer.
-
Long-term treatment with aspirin is associated with a progressive diminution in platelet sensitivity to the drug.
-
The common and increasing practice of opioid treatment for chronic pain is reviewed. Randomized trials support this therapy, however the risk benefit decision is complicated by new evidence of hazards making this practice more difficult.
-
The use of serum procalcitonin helps to differentiate bacterial from viral lower respiratory infections and may reduce the use of unnecessary antibiotics.
-
Influenza had a major impact on the nations hospitals this season, filling up intensive care units and leading to staff shortages. Currently, there is no standard that requires immunization of health care workers, but the Joint Commission requires hospitals to be in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. A vaccine against the H5N1 virus could be in clinical trials by this summer.
-
Schull MJ, Vermeulen M, Slaughter G, et al. Emergency department crowding and thrombolysis delays in acute myocardial infarction. Ann Emerg Med; in press.
-
A growing number of ED managers are coming to realize pain is much more than a physical symptom and taking a more holistic approach to pain can not only ease patient discomfort, but improve satisfaction.
-
IOM recommends more diverse health work force.
