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OslerCare: Modifying timing and delivery of feedback to impact resident lab ordering practices. J Hosp Med 2024. [PMID: 38698604 DOI: 10.1002/jhm.13330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
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Things We Do for No Reason™: Routinely obtaining repeat transthoracic echocardiography for acute decompensation of known chronic heart failure. J Hosp Med 2023; 18:934-937. [PMID: 36739110 DOI: 10.1002/jhm.13053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Disseminating evidence in medical education: journal club as a virtual community of practice. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2023; 23:572. [PMID: 37573320 PMCID: PMC10422831 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-023-04550-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study explores the impacts of the Council on Medical Student Education in Pediatrics (COMSEP) Journal Club, a unique means of providing monthly professional development for a large international community of pediatric undergraduate medical educators. In particular, we sought to establish member engagement with the Journal Club, identify factors impacting member contributions to the Journal Club, and determine perceived benefits of and barriers to participation as a Journal Club reviewer. METHODS Using an established Annual Survey as a study instrument, six survey questions were distributed to members of COMSEP. Items were pilot tested prior to inclusion. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square analysis.. RESULTS Of 125 respondents who completed the survey, 38% reported reading the Journal Club most months or always. Level of engagement varied. Reasons for reading included a topic of interest, keeping up to date on medical education literature, gaining practical tips for teaching and implementing new curricula. Motivators for writing a review included keeping up to date, contributing to a professional organization, and developing skill in analyzing medical education literature, with a minority citing reasons of enhancing their educational portfolio or academic promotion. The most commonly cited barriers were lack of time and lack of confidence or training in ability to analyze medical education literature. CONCLUSION As a strategy to disseminate the latest evidence in medical education to its membership, the COMSEP Journal Club is effective. Its format is ideally suited for busy educators and may help in members' professional development and in the development of a community of practice.
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Promoting clinical reasoning with meta-memory techniques to teach broad differential diagnosis generation in a pediatric core clerkship. Diagnosis (Berl) 2023; 10:242-248. [PMID: 37434439 DOI: 10.1515/dx-2023-0038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Clinical reasoning with generation and prioritization of differential diagnoses (DDx) is a key skill for medical students, but no consensus exists on the best method to teach these skills. Meta-memory techniques (MMTs) may be useful, but the efficacy of individual MMTs is unclear. METHODS We designed a 3-part curriculum for pediatric clerkship students to teach one of 3 MMTs and provide practice in DDx generation through case-based sessions. Students submitted DDx lists during two sessions and completed pre- and post-curriculum surveys assessing self-reported confidence and perceived helpfulness of the curriculum. Results were analyzed using ANOVA with multiple linear regression. RESULTS A total of 130 students participated in the curriculum, with 96 % (125/130) completing at least one DDx session, and 44 % (57/130) completing the post-curriculum survey. On average, 66 % of students rated all three sessions as "quite helpful" (4/5 on 5-point Likert scale) or "extremely helpful" (5/5) without difference between MMT groups. Students generated an average of 8.8, 7.1 and 6.4 diagnoses using the VINDICATES, Mental CT, and Constellations methods, respectively. When controlling for case, case order, and number of prior rotations, students using VINDICATES produced 2.8 more diagnoses than those using Constellations (95 % CI [1.1,4.5], p<0.001). There was no significant difference between VINDICATES and Mental CT (Δ=1.6, 95 % CI [-0.2,3.4], p=0.11) or Mental CT and Constellations (Δ=1.2, 95 % CI [-0.7,3.1], p=0.36). CONCLUSIONS Medical education should include curricula focused on enhancing DDx development. Although VINDICATES helped students produce the most DDx, further research is needed to identify which MMT generates more accurate DDx.
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A novel virtual course to teach medical students high-value decision-making. CLINICAL TEACHER 2023:e13597. [PMID: 37415282 DOI: 10.1111/tct.13597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although a clinician's ability to employ high-value decision-making is influenced by training, many undergraduate medical education programmes lack a formal curriculum in high-value, cost-conscious care. We present a curriculum developed through a cross-institutional collaboration that was used to teach students at two institutions about this topic and can serve as a framework for other institutions to develop similar curricula. APPROACH The faculty from the University of Virginia and the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine created a 2-week-long online course to teach medical students the fundamentals of high-value care. The course consisted of learning modules, clinical cases, textbook studies, journal clubs and a competitive 'Shark Tank' final project where students proposed a realistic intervention to promote high-value clinical care. EVALUATION Over two-thirds of students rated the course's quality as excellent or very good. Most found the online modules (92%), assigned textbook readings (89%) and 'Shark Tank' competition (83%) useful. To evaluate the student's ability to apply the concepts learned during the course in clinical contexts, we developed a scoring rubric based on the New World Kirkpatrick Model to evaluate students' proposals. Groups chosen as finalists (as determined by faculty judges) were more likely to be fourth-year students (56%), achieved higher overall scores (p = 0.03), better incorporated cost impact at several levels (patient, hospital and national) (p = 0.001) and discussed both positive and negative impacts on patient safety (p = 0.04). IMPLICATIONS This course provides a framework for medical schools to use in their teaching of high-value care. Cross-institutional collaboration and online content overcame local barriers such as contextual factors and lack of faculty expertise, allowed for greater flexibility, and enabled focused curricular time to be spent on a capstone project competition. Prior clinical experience amongst medical students may be an enabling factor in promoting application of learning related to high-value care.
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Bronchiolitis Simulation Module in the Pediatric Preclerkship Educational Exercises (PRECEDE) Curriculum. MEDEDPORTAL : THE JOURNAL OF TEACHING AND LEARNING RESOURCES 2023; 19:11318. [PMID: 37324447 PMCID: PMC10261534 DOI: 10.15766/mep_2374-8265.11318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Acute bronchiolitis is a viral infection infecting 90% of children under the age of 2 years, with approximately 200,000 deaths per year. The current standard of care remains largely respiratory support and prevention. Therefore, understanding how to assess and escalate respiratory supportive care is paramount for health care providers taking care of children. Methods We used a high-fidelity simulator to simulate an infant with progressing respiratory distress in the setting of acute bronchiolitis. The participants were pediatric clerkship medical students during their preclerkship educational exercises (PRECEDE). The students were asked to evaluate and treat the simulated patient. After debriefing, the students repeated the simulation. We assessed both performances via a weighted checklist specifically developed for this case to measure team performance. Students also completed an overall course evaluation. Results Ninety out of 121 pediatric clerkship students were enrolled. Performance improved from 57% to 86% ( p < .05). Donning appropriate personal protection equipment was the most missed item both pre- and postdebriefing. Overall, the course was well liked and received. Participants requested more simulation opportunities within PRECEDE as well as a summary document to reinforce learning. Discussion Pediatric clerkship students improved their performance managing progressing respiratory distress due to acute bronchiolitis via a performance-based assessment tool with sound validity evidence. Improvements going forward include improving faculty diversity and offering more simulation opportunities.
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Improvement of Medical Student Performance in Telemedicine Standardized Patient Encounters Following an Educational Intervention. Fam Med 2023; 55:400-404. [PMID: 37307392 PMCID: PMC10622078 DOI: 10.22454/fammed.2023.523442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The Association of American Medical Colleges identifies telemedicine competence as an important skill for graduating medical students, but which educational methods are effective in improving student performance is unclear. We aimed to assess the impact of two educational interventions on student performance in telemedicine standardized patient encounters. METHODS Sixty second-year medical students participated in the telemedicine curriculum during their required longitudinal ambulatory clerkship. Students first completed a preintervention telemedicine standardized patient (SP) encounter in October 2020. They subsequently were assigned to two intervention groups (ie, a role-play intervention, N=30; a faculty demonstration, N=30) and completed a teaching case. In December 2020, they completed a postintervention telemedicine SP encounter. Each case was a unique clinical scenario. SPs scored the encounters across six domains based on a standardized performance checklist. We compared the median scores for these domains and the median total score pre- and postintervention (using Wilcoxon signed rank and rank-sum tests) and the difference in median score by intervention type. RESULTS Students scored highly in history-taking and communication performance but had low physical exam (PE) and assessment/plan scores. Postintervention, median scores in PE (ie, median score difference 2, interquartile ranges [IQR] 1-3.5, P<.001), assessment/plan (ie, median score difference 0.5, IQR 0-2, P=.005), and overall performance improved significantly (ie, median score difference 3, IQR 0-5, P<.001). CONCLUSIONS Early medical students had low performance at baseline in telemedicine PE and assessment/plan skills, but both a role-play intervention and faculty demonstration led to significant increases in student performance.
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An Educational Needs Assessment of Telehealth in Primary Care Among US Internal Medicine Residents. South Med J 2023; 116:511-517. [PMID: 37263616 DOI: 10.14423/smj.0000000000001568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES As a result of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, many Internal Medicine (IM) residency programs converted to telehealth for primary care. Our objectives in this study were to better understand resident past and present telehealth education, their perceived barriers to telehealth practice, and their perceived solutions to improving telehealth use and education. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional needs assessment survey between November 2020 and February 2021 among residents at 10 IM residency programs across the United States. Our primary measures were telehealth use in resident continuity clinics before and during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, telehealth training, and confidence and barriers in using telehealth. RESULTS Of 857 residents contacted, 314 (36.6%) responded. Residents reported low rates of education in telehealth prepandemic with significant improvements after the start of the pandemic across all visit domains (range of 10.7%-19.6% prepandemic compared with 25.6%-55.7% postpandemic, all P < 0.001). Resident confidence levels were significantly lower (P < 0.001) for video visits and telephone visits compared with in-person visiting across domains of communication, history taking, using an interpreter, making a diagnosis, counseling patients, providing psychosocial support, performing medical management, and coordinating after-visit care. Reported barriers included patient resources, clinic resources, lack of preceptor feedback, and lack of observation. Reported resources for improvement included tutorials on physical examination techniques, clinical space for telehealth, and patient resources for telehealth. CONCLUSIONS To effectively address the educational needs for telehealth practice by IM residents, educators must consider not only curricular needs but also clinical, preceptor, and patient barriers to the high-quality use of telehealth for primary care.
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The Grade Debate: Evidence, Knowledge Gaps, and Perspectives on Clerkship Assessment Across the UME to GME Continuum. Am J Med 2023; 136:394-398. [PMID: 36632923 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2023.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Multimodal Intervention Assessing the Appropriateness of Acid Suppression Therapy is Associated With Reduced Prescriptions at the Time of Discharge for Hospitalized Inpatients. Hosp Pharm 2023; 58:171-177. [PMID: 36890948 PMCID: PMC9986565 DOI: 10.1177/00185787221123212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background Acid suppression therapy (AST), including proton pump inhibitors and histamine 2 receptor antagonists, are an overused class of medications. When used inappropriately, AST leads to polypharmacy, increased healthcare costs, and possible negative health consequences. Objective To assess whether an intervention including prescriber education combined with a pharmacist-driven protocol was effective in reducing the percentage of patients who were discharged with inappropriate AST. Methods This was a prospective pre-post study of adult patients who were prescribed AST before or during their admission to an internal medicine teaching service. All internal medicine resident physicians received education on appropriate AST prescribing. During the 4-week intervention period, dedicated pharmacists assessed the appropriateness of AST and made recommendations regarding deprescribing if no appropriate indication was identified. Results During the study period, there were 14 166 admissions during which patients were prescribed AST. Out of the 1143 admissions during the intervention period, appropriateness of AST was assessed by a pharmacist for 163 patients. AST was determined to be inappropriate for 52.8% (n = 86) of patients and discontinuation or de-escalate of therapy occurred in 79.1% (n = 68) of these cases. The percentage of patients discharged on AST decreased from 42.5% before the intervention to 39.9% after the intervention (P = .007). Conclusion This study suggests that a multimodal deprescribing intervention reduced prescriptions for AST without an appropriate indication at the time of discharge. To increase the efficiency of the pharmacist assessment several workflow improvements were identified. Further study is necessary to understand the long-term outcomes of this intervention.
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Reimagining Undergraduate Medical Education in a Post-COVID-19 Landscape. J Gen Intern Med 2022; 37:2297-2301. [PMID: 35710661 PMCID: PMC9202962 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-022-07503-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Online education due to the COVID-19 pandemic caused many medical schools to increasingly employ asynchronous and virtual learning that favored student independence and flexibility. At the same time, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted existing shortcomings of the healthcare field in providing for marginalized and underserved communities. This perspective piece details the authors' opinions as medical students and medical educators on how to leverage the aspects of pandemic medical education to train physicians who can better address these needs.
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Abstract 261: Best Practice Advisories Effects On Telemetry Ordering Habits. Circ Cardiovasc Qual Outcomes 2022. [DOI: 10.1161/circoutcomes.15.suppl_1.261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background:
Inpatient Telemetry detects dysrhythmias. However, data from telemetry influences management on < 1% of patients, and telemetry is often used in cases with no benefit. We are conducting a multi-center study to evaluate the impact of an EMR-based best practice advisory (BPA) on telemetry ordering practice
Methods:
To assess the effectiveness of a BPA encouraging cessation of telemetry, we performed an analysis of time on telemetry and the number of BPA alerts before and after October 2019 [Figure 1]. We redesigned the telemetry BPA to restrict firing to the hours of (8 AM to 6 PM) and to restrict notifications to the first call and Attending provider. We used Epic-generated data from 88, 832 unique patient telemetry orders and 121, 621 BPA responses from 3 hospitals. The data was normalized for variation in patients hospitalized over time using admission contact serial numbers (CSN) and inpatient admission orders for non-ICU medicine floors.
Results:
We analyzed data from 243,280 BPA alerts. Pre-BPA implementation mean alerts were 150.01 std 43.07 and post BPA implementation mean alerts were 76.33 std 33.461 p-value 0.00. Mean time on telemetry pre BPA 4481.262 mins std 6531.82 post BPA 4311.14 mins std 6011.18 mins p value 0.001
Conclusion:
Despite practice standards, telemetry use outside of the ICU varies widely amongst providers. Reduction in the number of telemetry minutes can lead to a decrease in clinician telemetry review time and offer improvement in patient satisfaction and comfort by not being connected to the device.
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Indications for the Use of Proton Pump Inhibitors for Stress Ulcer Prophylaxis and Peptic Ulcer Bleeding in Hospitalized Patients. Am J Med 2022; 135:313-317. [PMID: 34655535 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2021.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Proton pump inhibitors are widely used throughout the world for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders that are related to acid secretion, such as peptic ulcer disease and dyspepsia. Another common indication for proton pump inhibitors is stress ulcer prophylaxis. Proton pump inhibitors have proven efficacy for the treatment of acid-related gastrointestinal disorders, but there is concern that their use may be associated with the development of significant complications, such as fractures, Clostridium difficile infection, acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, and hypomagnesemia. Proton pump inhibitors are overused in the hospital setting, both for stress ulcer prophylaxis and gastrointestinal bleeding, and then they are often inappropriately continued after discharge from the hospital. This narrative review article outlines the evidence surrounding appropriate proton pump inhibitor use for stress ulcer prophylaxis and peptic ulcer bleeding.
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Time Management and Task Prioritization Curriculum for Pediatric and Internal Medicine Subinternship Students. MEDEDPORTAL : THE JOURNAL OF TEACHING AND LEARNING RESOURCES 2022; 18:11221. [PMID: 35265748 PMCID: PMC8861138 DOI: 10.15766/mep_2374-8265.11221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As a physician, it is important to develop time management and task prioritization skills early to promote future career success. In medical education, there is minimal structured time to teach these skills prior to residency. Stephen Covey's Time Management Matrix Technique (TMMT) is one strategy that can be used to develop these skills. This technique categorizes tasks into a four-quadrant table based on importance and urgency. Using this technique as a model, the authors developed a workshop for medical students on an inpatient pediatric or internal medicine subinternship. METHODS Prior to the workshop, students read an article and completed a survey and two self-directed exercises. The exercises asked students to create a list of tasks, develop an individualized TMMT model, and review specialty-specific patient cases. The workshop consisted of discussions on the presession work and group exercises on prioritizing tasks and responding to patient-related pages. Students evaluated the curriculum after the workshop with a survey. RESULTS Most participants (82%) strongly agreed or agreed that the workshop improved their ability to manage time effectively and prioritize tasks on a clinical rotation. There was a statistically significant increase in both median time management and task prioritization confidence scores after completion of the workshop (p < .05). DISCUSSION This workshop provides one strategy that can be implemented within undergraduate medical education to enhance time management skills prior to residency. Future studies should be aimed at evaluating these skills within the clinical setting.
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Reducing Overuse of Proton Pump Inhibitors for Stress Ulcer Prophylaxis and Nonvariceal Gastrointestinal Bleeding in the Hospital: A Narrative Review and Implementation Guide. J Hosp Med 2021; 16:417-423. [PMID: 34197307 DOI: 10.12788/jhm.3637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are among the most commonly used medications in the world; however, these drugs carry the risk of patient harm, including acute and chronic kidney disease, Clostridium difficile infection, hypomagnesemia, and fractures. In the hospital setting, PPIs are overused for stress ulcer prophylaxis and gastrointestinal bleeding, and PPI use often continues after discharge. Numerous multifaceted interventions have demonstrated safe and effective reduction of PPI use in the inpatient setting. This narrative review and the resulting implementation guide summarize published interventions to reduce inappropriate PPI use and provide a strategy for quality improvement teams.
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Feasibility of clinical performance assessment of medical students on a virtual sub-internship in the United States. JOURNAL OF EDUCATIONAL EVALUATION FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONS 2021; 18:12. [PMID: 34154038 PMCID: PMC8289686 DOI: 10.3352/jeehp.2021.18.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
We aimed to determine whether it was feasible to assess medical students as they completed a virtual sub-internship. Six students (out of 31 who completed an in-person sub-internship) participated in a 2-week virtual sub-internship, caring for patients remotely. Residents and attendings assessed those 6 students in 15 domains using the same assessment measures from the in-person sub-internship. Raters marked “unable to assess” in 75/390 responses (19%) for the virtual sub-internship versus 88/3,405 (2.6%) for the in-person sub-internship (P=0.01), most frequently for the virtual sub-internship in the domains of the physical examination (21, 81%), rapport with patients (18, 69%), and compassion (11, 42%). Students received complete assessments in most areas. Scores were higher for the in-person than the virtual sub-internship (4.67 vs. 4.45, P<0.01) for students who completed both. Students uniformly rated the virtual clerkship positively. Students can be assessed in many domains in the context of a virtual sub-internship.
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New frontiers in High-Value Care Education and Innovation: When Less is Not More. J Hosp Med 2019; 14:323-324. [PMID: 30986179 DOI: 10.12788/jhm.3186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional analysis. OBJECTIVES Given the lack of strong evidence/guidelines on appropriate treatment for lumbar spine disease, substantial variability exists among surgical treatments utilized, which is associated with differences in costs to treat a given pathology. Our goal was to investigate the variability in costs among spine surgeons nationally for the same pathology in similar patients. METHODS Four hundred forty-five spine surgeons completed a survey of clinical and radiographic case scenarios on patients with recurrent lumbar disc herniation, low back pain, and spondylolisthesis. Those surveyed were asked to provide various details including their geographical location, specialty, and fellowship training. Treatment options included no surgery, anterior lumbar interbody fusion, posterolateral fusion, and transforaminal/posterior lumbar interbody fusion. Costs were estimated via Medicare national payment amounts. RESULTS For recurrent lumbar disc herniation, no difference in costs existed for patients undergoing their first revision microdiscectomy. However, for patients undergoing another microdiscectomy, surgeons who operated <100 times/year had significantly lower costs than those who operated >200 times/year (P < .001) and those with 5-15 years of experience had significantly higher costs than those with >15 years (P < .001). For the treatment of low back pain, academic surgeons kept costs about 55% lower than private practice surgeons (P < .001). In the treatment of spondylolisthesis, there was significant treatment variability without significant differences in costs. CONCLUSIONS Significant variability in surgical treatment paradigms exists for different pathologies. Understanding why variability in treatment selection exists in similar clinical contexts across practices is important to ensure the most cost-effective delivery of care among spine surgeons.
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Impact of nonintrusive clinical decision support systems on laboratory test utilization in a large academic centre. J Eval Clin Pract 2018; 24:474-479. [PMID: 29446193 PMCID: PMC6050580 DOI: 10.1111/jep.12890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Revised: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The near-universal prevalence of electronic health records (EHRs) has made the utilization of clinical decision support systems (CDSS) an integral strategy for improving the value of laboratory ordering. Few studies have examined the effectiveness of nonintrusive CDSS on inpatient laboratory utilization in large academic centres. METHODS Red blood cell folate, hepatitis C virus viral loads and genotypes, and type and screens were selected for study. We incorporated the appropriate indications for these labs into text that accompanied the laboratory orders in our hospital's EHR. Providers could proceed with the order without additional clicks. An interrupted time-series analysis was performed, and the primary outcome was the rate of tests ordered on all inpatient medicine floors. RESULTS The rate of folate tests ordered per monthly admissions showed no significant level change at the time of the intervention with only a slight decrease in rate of 0.0109 (P = .07). There was a 43% decrease in the rate of hepatitis C virus tests per monthly admissions immediately after the intervention with a decrease of 0.0135 tests per monthly admissions (P = .02). The rate of type and screens orders per patient days each month had a significant downward trend by 0.114 before the intervention (P = .04) but no significant level change at the time of the intervention or significant change in rate after the intervention. DISCUSSION Our study suggests that nonintrusive CDSS should be evaluated for individual laboratory tests to ensure only effective alerts continue to be used so as to avoid increasing EHR fatigue.
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Abstract
Clinical decision support (CDS) embedded within the electronic health record (EHR) is a potential antibiotic stewardship strategy for hospitalized patients. Reduction in urine testing and treating asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) is an important strategy to promote antibiotic stewardship. We created an intervention focused on reducing urine testing for asymptomatic patients at a large tertiary care center. The objective of this study was to design an intervention to reduce unnecessary urinalysis and urine culture (UC) orders as well as the treatment of ASB. We performed a quasiexperimental study among adult inpatients at a single academic institution. We implemented a bundled intervention, including information broadcast in newsletters, hospitalwide screensavers, and passive CDS messages in the EHR. We investigated the impact of this strategy on urinalysis, UC orders, and on the treatment of ASB by using an interrupted time series analysis. Our intervention led to reduced UC order as well as reduced antibiotic orders in response to urinalysis orders and UC results. This easily implementable bundle may play an important role as an antibiotic stewardship strategy.
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Abstract
Treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) frequently lacks appropriate indication, yet remains prevalent across settings. Numerous guidelines, professional societies, and campaigns such as Choosing Wisely advocate against this low-value practice. Efforts aimed at reducing unnecessary treatment of ASB demonstrate improved costs, and avoidable harm without increased risk of adverse events. We propose an evidence-based implementation guide to aid practitioners in reducing inappropriate treatment of ASB.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Medical schools are creating high-value care (HVC) curricula in undergraduate medical education; however, there are few studies identifying what are the most pressing low-value care (LVC) practices, as observed by students. This study is a multicentre, targeted needs assessment comparing medical student perceptions of LVC at four institutions, after completion of their internal medicine clerkship, to identify areas of focus for future HVC curriculum development. METHODS A total of 307 medical students at four institutions participated in a voluntary survey and identified instances of LVC during the internal medicine clerkship. Responses were organised into seven LVC categories and analysed using chi-square testing to determine response variation by institution. RESULTS The four most common themes identified by all institutions were testing for low prevalence disease processes (44%), excessive daily labwork (44%), errors in clinical judgement (26%) and testing that would not change management (21%). Responses did not vary by institution, with the exception that one school identified fewer instances of ordering excessive labwork compared with the other institutions (28 versus 46-54%; p = 0.05). There are few studies identifying what are the most pressing low-value care practices DISCUSSION: This is the first multi-institutional targeted needs assessment to demonstrate similarities in perceptions of LVC by medical students. Despite differences in geographic location and private and public affiliations, the top four categories remained consistent. These findings can provide a framework for educational objectives that address these issues in an HVC curriculum. Response variation, as seen with institution 2, offers opportunities for schools to personalise their HVC curriculum.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Rising and burdensome health care costs have driven interest in the practice of high-value care (HVC) and have inspired calls for increased HVC training across all levels of medical education, including among undergraduate medical students. CONTEXT Classroom-based HVC curricula targeted to medical students have not been previously described in the medical literature. INNOVATION We developed and evaluated a workshop comprising a lecture, a small-group exercise and a group discussion to instruct medical students on interpreting cost-effectiveness analyses (CEA), applying CEA to patient care and discussing the cost of care with patients. From January 2014 to September 2015 the workshop was administered to five cohorts, 120 students in total, in the internal medicine clerkships at two US medical schools. Pre- and post-intervention confidence in various domains was assessed with a Likert-type scale ranging from 1 to 4. The overall response rate was 87.9 per cent. The proportion of students reporting high confidence scores (3 or 4) rose significantly (p < 0.01) in each domain: from 16.2 to 76.9 per cent for calculating an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER); from 16.0 to 79.6 per cent for interpreting quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs); from 8.7 to 71.3 per cent for using CEA in patient management; and from 15.3 to 71.4 per cent for discussing costs with patients. Students rated the overall quality of the course as 3.82 out of 5. Rising and burdensome health care costs have driven interest in the practice of high-value care IMPLICATIONS: Our experience of developing, evaluating and refining an HVC course targeted at medical students taught us that such a course is needed, can be educational and can be well-received. Future research is needed to assess the effects of curricula on clinical practice.
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Further Misanalysis of Urinalysis-Reply. JAMA Intern Med 2016; 176:1408. [PMID: 27598759 DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2016.4510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
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74: An exercise intervention program in older community-dwelling women with urinary incontinence: A mixed methods feasibility study. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2016.01.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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CMR2009: 4.04: Persistent CT nephrograms observed after hepatic angiography: are these findings indicative of either global or focal renal injury? CONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING 2009. [DOI: 10.1002/cmmi.317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Human High Density Lipoproteins Are Platforms for the Assembly of Multi-component Innate Immune Complexes. J Biol Chem 2005; 280:32578-85. [PMID: 16046400 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m503510200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Human innate immunity to non-pathogenic species of African trypanosomes is provided by human high density lipoprotein (HDL) particles. Here we show that native human HDLs containing haptoglobin-related protein (Hpr), apolipoprotein L-I (apoL-I) and apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) are the principle antimicrobial molecules providing protection from trypanosome infection. Other HDL subclasses containing either apoA-I and apoL-I or apoA-I and Hpr have reduced trypanolytic activity, whereas HDL subclasses lacking apoL-I and Hpr are non-toxic to trypanosomes. Highly purified, lipid-free Hpr and apoL-I were both toxic to Trypanosoma brucei brucei but with specific activities at least 500-fold less than those of native HDLs, suggesting that association of these apolipoproteins within the HDL particle was necessary for optimal cytotoxicity. These studies show that HDLs can serve as platforms for the assembly of multiple synergistic proteins and that these assemblies may play a critical role in the evolution of primate-specific innate immunity to trypanosome infection.
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Abstract
Gabapentin has been reported to be effective for essential tremor (ET) based on open-label trials. We studied gabapentin (1800 mg/day) and placebo in a double-blind crossover design in 20 ET patients. Eighteen patients completed the study and two patients dropped out as a result of adverse effects which resolved when the medication was discontinued. Tremor was assessed at baseline and after 2 weeks of gabapentin and placebo treatment. One patient was mildly improved and another was moderately improved with placebo. Similarly, one patient reported mild improvement and another patient had marked improvement with gabapentin. All the remaining patients either reported no change or were worse with both treatment arms. There was no significant difference for total tremor score, hand tremor score, handwriting scores, or pouring scores. Sickness Impact Profile scores were no different between placebo and gabapentin. Our results suggest that as an adjuvant therapy in ET, gabapentin has limited benefit.
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Mineral utilization from a 'bifidus containing formula' among infants. Indian J Pediatr 1983; 50:21-8. [PMID: 6618556 DOI: 10.1007/bf02753435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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Status of 'bifidus growth stimulating factor' of human milk. Indian J Pediatr 1982; 49:785-90. [PMID: 7182353 DOI: 10.1007/bf02976968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Band faults: Efficient approximations to fault bands for the simulation before fault diagnosis of linear circuits. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1982. [DOI: 10.1109/tcs.1982.1085114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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