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Dronedarone is a new antiarrhythmic drug with structural similarities to amiodarone. During development of the molecule, the steps included removal of the iodine atoms and making the compound more lipophilic; the latter produces a shorter elimination half-life and reduced tissue accumulation.
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In this study of physician use of clinical information technology in relation to 4 common diagnoses in 41 urban hospitals in Texas, inpatient outcomes were better the more extensive the use of computerized order entry, test results, physician charting, and decision support. Increased use of IT was also associated with significantly lower costs for all hospital admissions.
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Whether oral vitamin K reduces the risk of bleeding related to excessive anticoagulation from warfarin remains unclear.
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Since the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding is increased when clopidogrel is added to aspirin therapy in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS), many prescribe proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce this risk. However, mechanistic studies suggest that PPIs may reduce the effectiveness of clopidogrel.
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Stroke has evolved into brain attack. Now more than ever, the emergency physician must diagnose stroke rapidly and correctly.
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While ICU clinicians understand that prognostic uncertainty is a normal part of critical care, it is unclear if surrogates hold similar views. In this study, Evans et al conducted semi-structured face-to-face interviews with 179 surrogates who had an adult patient in the ICU.
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Editor's Note: The alpha2-receptor agonist dexmedetomidine (Precedex®), introduced for perioperative and procedural sedation and other short-term applications, is approved by the FDA for use in the ICU, although the package insert emphasizes that this approved use is for not more than 24 hours.
