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The infection control technique of contact precautions is intended to prevent the spread of pathogens by airborne, droplet, or contact transmission.
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Investigators at the University of Utah hospital carried out a comprehensive observational study of alarms that sounded in the medical ICU.
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Acute pancreatitis was described by surgeon Berkely Moynihan in 1925 as " the most terrible of all calamities that occur in connection with the abdominal viscera." Although our understanding and management of this condition has progressed considerably since then, this description remains apt at least for the most advanced and complex cases of severe acute pancreatitis.
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In this issue: Clopidogrel and proton pump inhibitors; adverse events with tamsulosin after cataract surgery; new guidelines for persistent pain in the elderly; and FDA Actions.
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The Joint Commission has issued a reminder to providers that many accreditation standards can help reduce the risk of transmission of H1N1 (swine) flu.
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In this month's special issue, we tackle the complexities of liability in outpatient surgery. Our cover story tells you about the most common problem areas, and how to avoid them. A story on page 67 tells you about how following national guidelines could offer protection from liability. We discuss the Life Safety Code on page 69.
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A child comes in for repair of a cleft palate. The left side of the mouth already has been repaired, and this procedure is scheduled for the right side. The consent form is correct and is signed. The team performs a timeout, and everyone agrees they will work on the right side. The surgeon cuts into the left side, according to a media report.
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Medicare's new Conditions for Coverage for ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs), which took effect May 18, include a requirement that ASCs must adhere to professional acceptable standards of practice for infection control. One key to avoiding liability in that area is proper instrument disinfection and sterilization.
