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The Penn Medicine COVID-19 Therapeutics Committee-Reflections on a Model for Rapid Evidence Review and Dynamic Practice Recommendations During a Public Health Emergency. Open Forum Infect Dis 2023; 10:ofad428. [PMID: 37663091 PMCID: PMC10468749 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofad428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The Penn Medicine COVID-19 Therapeutics Committee-an interspecialty, clinician-pharmacist, and specialist-front line primary care collaboration-has served as a forum for rapid evidence review and the production of dynamic practice recommendations during the 3-year coronavirus disease 2019 public health emergency. We describe the process by which the committee went about its work and how it navigated specific challenging scenarios. Our target audiences are clinicians, hospital leaders, public health officials, and researchers invested in preparedness for inevitable future threats. Our objectives are to discuss the logistics and challenges of forming an effective committee, undertaking a rapid evidence review process, aligning evidence-based guidelines with operational realities, and iteratively revising recommendations in response to changing pandemic data. We specifically discuss the arc of evidence for corticosteroids; the noble beginnings and dangerous misinformation end of hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin; monoclonal antibodies and emerging viral variants; and patient screening and safety processes for tocilizumab, baricitinib, and nirmatrelvir-ritonavir.
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The Context of "Confidence": Analyzing the Term Confidence in Resident Evaluations. J Gen Intern Med 2022; 37:2187-2193. [PMID: 35710674 PMCID: PMC9296754 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-022-07535-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite similar performance metrics, women medical trainees routinely self-assess their own skills lower than men. The phenomenon of a "confidence gap" between genders, where women report lower self-confidence independent of actual ability or competency, may have an important interaction with gender differences in assessment. Identifying whether there are gender-based differences in how confidence is mentioned in written evaluations is a necessary step to understand the interaction between evaluation and the gender-based confidence gap. OBJECTIVE To analyze faculty evaluations of internal medicine (IM) residents for gender-based patterns in the use of iterations of "confidence." DESIGN We performed a retrospective cohort study of all inpatient faculty evaluations of University of Pennsylvania IM residents from 2018 to 2021. We performed n-gram text-mining to identify evaluations containing the terms "confident," "confidence," or "confidently." We performed univariable and multivariable logistic regression to determine the association between resident gender and references to confidence (including comments reflecting too little confidence), adjusting for faculty gender, post-graduate year (PGY), numeric rating, and service. SUBJECTS University of Pennsylvania IM residents from 2018 to 2021. KEY RESULTS There were 5416 evaluations of IM residents (165 women [51%], 156 men [49%]) submitted by 356 faculty members (149 women [51%]), of which 7.1 % (n=356) contained references to confidence. There was a significant positive association between the mention of confidence and women resident gender (OR 1.54, CI 1.23-1.92; p<0.001), which persisted after adjustment for faculty gender, numeric rating, and PGY level. Eighty evaluations of the cohort explicitly mentioned the resident having "too little confidence," which was also associated with women resident gender (OR 1.66, CI 1.05-2.62; p=0.031). CONCLUSION Narrative evaluations of women residents were more likely to contain references to confidence, after adjustment for numerical score, PGY level, and faculty gender, which may perpetuate the gender-based confidence gap, introduce bias, and ultimately impact professional identity development.
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High Rate of Coadministration of Di- or Tri-valent Cation-Containing Compounds With Oral Fluoroquinolones: Risk Factors and Potential Implications. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2016; 26:93-9. [PMID: 15693415 DOI: 10.1086/502493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AbstractBackground:The characteristics of fluoroquinolone use that increase the risk of selecting for fluoroquinolone resistance remain unclear. Exposure to subtherapeutic levels of fluoroquinolone promotes bacterial development of fluoroquinolone resistance. Oral fluoroquinolone absorption is significantly impaired by coadministration with many common di- or tri-valent cation-containing compounds (DTCCs), and this interaction has been associated with therapeutic failure. However, the prevalence of, and risk factors for, in-hospital coadministration of oral fluoroquinolones with DTCCs is unknown.Design:Case-control study.Setting:A 625-bed, tertiary-care medical center.Patients:All inpatients who were dispensed oral levofloxacin from July 1, 1999, to June 30, 2001, were included. Coadministration was defined by documented administration of any DTCC within 2 hours of levofloxacin. Complete coadministration was defined as coadministration complicating every dose of a course of levofloxacin.Results:A subset of 3,227 (41.0%) of 7,871 doses of levofloxacin that occurred during the same calendar day as any DTCC was selected for further review. Overall, 1,904 (77.1%) of 2,470 doses of oral levofloxacin reviewed were complicated by coadministration with at least one DTCC. On multivariable analysis, an increased number of prescribed medications was significantly associated with complete coadministration (per increase of one medication: OR, 1.05; CI95, 1.01–1.10; P = .036), whereas patient location in an ICU was protective (OR, 0.51; CI95, 0.30–0.87; P = .013). If our prevalence results are extrapolated to all patients receiving oral levofloxacin at our hospital, approximately one in three doses was complicated by coadministration.Conclusion:Coadministration of fluoroquinolones with DTCCs is extremely common and significantly associated with polypharmacy.
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Stranger than fiction. J Hosp Med 2015; 10:314-7. [PMID: 25627473 DOI: 10.1002/jhm.2317] [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: 09/07/2014] [Revised: 12/28/2014] [Accepted: 01/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections after solid organ transplantation: a survival analysis. Clin Microbiol Infect 2014; 21:43-7. [PMID: 25636926 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2014.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2014] [Revised: 07/10/2014] [Accepted: 07/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The relationship of non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infections and survival among solid organ transplant recipients is unknown. We conducted a retrospective cohort study to measure the impact of NTM infection on survival in this patient population, comparing the effect of Mycobacterium abscessus infection with that of infections due to other pathogenic NTM species. We identified 33 patients with NTM infection post-transplantation, 18 with infection that was diagnosed within the first year. Although drug resistance was common among M. abscessus isolates, patients with M. abscessus infection did not have increased mortality compared with patients with other types of NTM infections (p 0.64). In contrast, we observed a significant association overall between early NTM infection and 3-year mortality post-transplantation (hazard ratio 8.76, 95% CI 2.69-28.57). The mortality burden of NTM infection following transplantation may be due to factors other than the virulence of the organisms. Multicentre studies are needed to identify the optimal approach for diagnosing and treating these uncommon but serious infections.
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Risk factors for nontuberculous mycobacterial infections in solid organ transplant recipients: a case-control study. Transpl Infect Dis 2013; 16:76-83. [PMID: 24350627 DOI: 10.1111/tid.12170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2012] [Revised: 04/10/2013] [Accepted: 05/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The epidemiology of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) disease in solid organ transplant recipients is poorly defined. METHODS We identified all solid organ transplant recipients with NTM disease at a single center over a 7.5-year period, and collected data on patient demographics, co-morbidities, immunosuppressive medications, and rejection. We conducted a case-control study to identify risk factors for disease, matching 3 control patients to each case patient by date of transplantation. RESULTS A total of 34 cases of NTM disease occurred during the study period, involving 6 single lung, 13 bilateral lung, 8 heart, 4 liver, 2 kidney, and 1 pancreas-kidney recipients. Cases were predominantly male (24/34), with a median age of 55 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 46-61 years), and developed after a median of 8 months post transplantation (IQR: 2-87 months). Mycobacterium abscessus and Mycobacterium avium complex were the most common pathogens, and the lung (including pleura) was the most common site of disease. In the adjusted case-control analysis, lung transplant recipients had the highest risk of NTM disease. CONCLUSIONS Additional studies are needed to evaluate the role of targeted surveillance measures for NTM disease in high-risk patients, particularly lung transplant recipients, and to characterize the mechanisms of disease acquisition.
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Risk factors and clinical outcomes of cytomegalovirus disease occurring more than one year post solid organ transplantation. Transpl Infect Dis 2012; 14:149-55. [PMID: 22260410 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-3062.2011.00705.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2011] [Revised: 07/25/2011] [Accepted: 11/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease typically occurs during the first year after solid organ transplantation, after cessation of antiviral prophylaxis. CMV occurring after the first year is uncommon and not well described. METHODS We conducted a case-control study to identify potential risk factors and a retrospective cohort study to evaluate 1-month mortality in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients who developed CMV disease after the first year post transplant, or "very late CMV" (VLCMV), compared with those developing CMV within the first year (CMV Y1), adjusting for demographics, donor and recipient CMV serostatus, immunosuppression, rejection, and co-morbidities. RESULTS We identified 85 SOT recipients with CMV disease at a single transplant center between January 2006 and October 2008: 23 (27%) had VLCMV and 62 (73%) had CMV Y1. Heart transplantation was independently associated with increased risk (adjusted odd ratio [OR] 4.11; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.34-12.61; P = 0.01) for VLCMV. Patients with VLCMV had increased 1-month mortality (unadjusted OR 5.39; 95% CI 1.06-27.48; P = 0.02). Mortality was uncommonly attributable to CMV. CONCLUSIONS CMV disease continues to occur after the first year post solid organ transplantation, particularly in heart transplant recipients, and can be associated with poor outcomes. CMV should be suspected in patients with symptoms or laboratory findings consistent with CMV, even if the patients present >1 year post transplant.
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Preferred treatment and prevention strategies for recurrent community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus skin and soft-tissue infections: a survey of adult and pediatric providers. Am J Infect Control 2010; 38:324-8. [PMID: 20420965 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2009.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2009] [Revised: 11/21/2009] [Accepted: 11/30/2009] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Among pediatric and adult providers, 70% preferred trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole for directed treatment of community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus skin and soft-tissue infections, although a higher proportion of pediatric compared with adult providers favored clindamycin (36% vs 8%, respectively, P < .0001). For recurrent infections, 88% of providers employed at least 1 topical decolonization strategy.
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Increased incidence of cytomegalovirus infection in high-risk liver transplant recipients receiving valganciclovir prophylaxis versus ganciclovir prophylaxis. Liver Transpl 2009; 15:963-7. [PMID: 19642123 DOI: 10.1002/lt.21769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Optimal measures for the prevention of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in high-risk orthotopic liver transplant (OLT) patients are unknown. The charts of high-risk OLT recipients with 12 months of follow-up who were transplanted over a 44-month period were reviewed. The incidence of CMV disease in CMV-seropositive donor/CMV-seronegative recipient patients receiving valganciclovir or ganciclovir prophylaxis was compared. Sixty-six patients met the inclusion criteria and were treated with 1 of 3 prophylactic regimens: valganciclovir (900 mg daily; 27 patients), oral ganciclovir (1000 mg every 8 hours; 17 patients), or intravenous ganciclovir (6 mg/kg daily; 22 patients). Eight CMV cases occurred, all after completion of the prophylaxis. The combined incidence of CMV disease with intravenous and oral ganciclovir was lower than the incidence in valganciclovir recipients (P = 0.056; relative risk, 4.33; 95% confidence interval, 0.94-19.87). CMV disease occurred in 22.2% of valganciclovir recipients, 4.5% of intravenous ganciclovir recipients, and 5.9% of oral ganciclovir recipients. In conclusion, late-onset CMV disease occurred more frequently among high-risk liver transplant recipients treated with valganciclovir prophylaxis. The 4-fold higher incidence of CMV disease in our study supports the avoidance of valganciclovir for prophylaxis in high-risk OLT patients. Liver Transpl 15:963-967, 2009. (c) 2009 AASLD.
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Effect of communication errors during calls to an antimicrobial stewardship program. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2007; 28:1374-81. [PMID: 17994518 DOI: 10.1086/523861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2007] [Accepted: 08/13/2007] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine how inaccurate communication of patient data by clinicians in telephone calls to the prior-approval antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP) staff affects the incidence of inappropriate antimicrobial recommendations made by ASP practitioners. DESIGN A retrospective cohort design was used. The accuracy of the patient data communicated was evaluated against patients' medical records to identify predetermined, clinically significant inaccuracies. Inappropriate antimicrobial recommendations were defined having been made if an expert panel unanimously rated the actual recommendations as inappropriate after reviewing vignettes derived from inpatients' medical records. SETTING The setting was an academic medical center with a prior-approval ASP. PATIENTS All inpatient subjects of ASP prior-approval calls were eligible for inclusion. RESULTS Of 200 ASP telephone calls, the panel agreed about whether or not antimicrobial recommendations were inappropriate for 163 calls (82%); these 163 calls were then used as the basis for further analyses. After controlling for confounders, inaccurate communication was found to be associated with inappropriate antimicrobial recommendations (odds ratio [OR], of 2.2; P=.03). In secondary analyses of specific data types, only inaccuracies in microbiological data were associated with the study outcome (OR, 7.5; P=.002). The most common reason panelists gave for rating a recommendation as inappropriate was that antimicrobial therapy was not indicated. CONCLUSIONS Inaccurate communication of patient data, particularly microbiological data, during prior-approval calls is associated with an increased risk of inappropriate antimicrobial recommendations from the ASP. Clinicians and ASP practitioners should work to confirm that critical data has been communicated accurately prior to use of that data in prescribing decisions.
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Student nurse practitioners – A rite of passage? The universality of Van Gennep’s model of social transition. Nurse Educ Pract 2007; 7:338-47. [PMID: 17689461 DOI: 10.1016/j.nepr.2006.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2006] [Revised: 11/09/2006] [Accepted: 11/12/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Whilst much has been written on the competence and clinical effectiveness of qualified nurse practitioners, the literature reveals little on the educational experience of student nurse practitioners. This paper reviews an ethnography that examined, over a two-year period, the experiences of student nurse practitioners undertaking a clinical degree programme (B.Sc. (Hons) Nurse Practitioner). The findings revealed the student nurse practitioner experience as a composite of social and cultural transitions, and subsequently Van Gennep's (Van Gennep, A., 1960. The Rites of Passage (Trans). Routledge & Kegan Paul, London) rite of passage model was found to have similarity with this emergent model. Finally, it was noted that, whilst social transition is modelled in the literature in many ways, the stages of a rite of passage had universal application.
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Abstract
Viral respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are common causes of mild illness in immunocompetent children and adults, with occasional significant morbidity or mortality in the very young, very old or infirm. However, recipients of solid organ transplants (SOT) or haematopoietic stem cell transplants (HSCT) are at markedly increased risk for significant morbidity or mortality from these infections. The infections are generally acquired by transmission of large respiratory droplets and can be nosocomial in origin with many documented outbreaks on specialised transplant units. Typically, the infections begin as upper RTIs, with cough or rhinorrhoea predominating. Many will resolve at this stage, but more immunocompromised patients, typically closer in time to their SOT or HSCT, may develop progressive infection to lower RTI or pneumonia. The most common RTI pathogens are influenza viruses, parainfluenza viruses and respiratory syncytial viruses. Newer polymerase chain reaction-based diagnostic strategies are more sensitive than previous assays, and allow rapid and accurate diagnoses of these infections. These newer assays may also detect emerging pathogens of significance, one of which is human metapneumovirus. While diagnostic techniques have advanced significantly in the past decade, well established and effective specific treatments for these infections remain elusive. The epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis and treatment of the common viral RTIs in SOT or HSCT recipients are reviewed, and recommendations presented based on a thorough review of recent literature.
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A prospective cross-sectional study of BK virus infection in non-renal solid organ transplant recipients with chronic renal dysfunction. Transpl Infect Dis 2006. [PMID: 16734633 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-3062.2006.00155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polyomavirus (primarily BK virus [BKV]) infection is an important cause of chronic renal dysfunction in renal transplant recipients, but its possible contribution to chronic renal dysfunction in non-renal solid organ transplant (NRSOT) recipients has not been fully explored. METHODS We performed a prospective, cross-sectional study of consecutive NRSOT recipients with unexplained chronic renal dysfunction of at least a 3 months duration. Medical records were reviewed, and polymerase chain reaction was used to amplify BKV-specific sequences from serum and urine samples. The potential associations between various demographic and transplant variables and BKV infection were assessed. RESULTS Thirty-four consecutive NRSOT recipients (23 lung, 8 liver, 2 heart, 1 heart-lung) with chronic renal dysfunction were enrolled at a median of 3.5 years (range 0.3-12.5 years) post transplantation. Five of the 34 (15%) patients had BKV viruria (range 1040-1.8 x 10(6) copies/mL), but none had BKV viremia. BK viruria was associated with mycophenolate mofetil use (5 of 19 [26%] vs. 0 of 15, P = 0.03) and a history of cytomegalovirus disease (3 of 4 [75%] vs. 2 of 30 [7%], P < 0.01). However, the mean estimated creatinine clearance was similar in patients with or without BKV viruria (49 vs. 47 mL/min). CONCLUSIONS BKV viruria was present in a proportion of NRSOT patients with otherwise unexplained chronic renal dysfunction. The possibility that BKV infection might contribute to chronic renal dysfunction in this setting warrants further investigation.
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A prospective cross-sectional study of BK virus infection in non-renal solid organ transplant recipients with chronic renal dysfunction. Transpl Infect Dis 2006; 8:102-7. [PMID: 16734633 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-3062.2006.00155.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polyomavirus (primarily BK virus [BKV]) infection is an important cause of chronic renal dysfunction in renal transplant recipients, but its possible contribution to chronic renal dysfunction in non-renal solid organ transplant (NRSOT) recipients has not been fully explored. METHODS We performed a prospective, cross-sectional study of consecutive NRSOT recipients with unexplained chronic renal dysfunction of at least a 3 months duration. Medical records were reviewed, and polymerase chain reaction was used to amplify BKV-specific sequences from serum and urine samples. The potential associations between various demographic and transplant variables and BKV infection were assessed. RESULTS Thirty-four consecutive NRSOT recipients (23 lung, 8 liver, 2 heart, 1 heart-lung) with chronic renal dysfunction were enrolled at a median of 3.5 years (range 0.3-12.5 years) post transplantation. Five of the 34 (15%) patients had BKV viruria (range 1040-1.8 x 10(6) copies/mL), but none had BKV viremia. BK viruria was associated with mycophenolate mofetil use (5 of 19 [26%] vs. 0 of 15, P = 0.03) and a history of cytomegalovirus disease (3 of 4 [75%] vs. 2 of 30 [7%], P < 0.01). However, the mean estimated creatinine clearance was similar in patients with or without BKV viruria (49 vs. 47 mL/min). CONCLUSIONS BKV viruria was present in a proportion of NRSOT patients with otherwise unexplained chronic renal dysfunction. The possibility that BKV infection might contribute to chronic renal dysfunction in this setting warrants further investigation.
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Group B streptococcal toxic shock syndrome in an asplenic patient: case report and literature review. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2006; 25:208-10. [PMID: 16532253 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-006-0106-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Coadministration of oral levofloxacin with agents that impair its absorption: potential impact on emergence of resistance. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2006; 26:327-30. [PMID: 16154325 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2005.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2005] [Accepted: 04/25/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Coadministration of fluoroquinolones (FQs) with divalent or trivalent cation-containing compounds (DTCCs) inhibits FQ absorption. In a case-control study of 46 inpatients receiving oral levofloxacin and DTCCs, patients with a levofloxacin-resistant isolate had been previously exposed to nearly twice as many days of levofloxacin/DTCC coadministration (P = 0.04). There remained a borderline significant independent association between the number of days of coadministration and levofloxacin-resistant culture [adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval) = 1.26 (0.98, 1.63); P = 0.07], even after controlling for the length of the levofloxacin course and the duration of hospitalisation prior to initiation of levofloxacin. Efforts should be directed at modifying hospital policies for dosing of levofloxacin and DTCCs to prevent coadministration.
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Abstract
Community-acquired respiratory viruses (CARVs) are frequent causes of upper and lower respiratory tract infections in transplant recipients. In most series, respiratory syncytial virus and parainfluenza are the most common CARVs, followed by influenza and adenovirus. Significant morbidity and mortality are associated with these infections, particularly when they progress to pneumonia or when they are associated with bacterial or fungal coinfections. Outcomes are also poor with adenovirus, frequently reflecting disseminated infection. Efforts to prevent morbidity and mortality from CARV infection should focus on prevention, because treatment options are limited with inconclusive data to support their efficacy.
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Complications related to dapsone use for Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia prophylaxis in solid organ transplant recipients. Am J Transplant 2005; 5:2791-5. [PMID: 16212642 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-6143.2005.01079.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Dapsone, used for prevention of Pneumocystis jirovecii infections, has been reported to cause hemolytic anemia and methemoglobinemia; its tolerability in solid organ transplant recipients is not well described. We investigated dapsone-related adverse events in patients undergoing solid organ transplantation from 1999 to 2004. Transplant providers identified patients for the investigators who then reviewed the patients' hospital and outpatient records. Sixteen solid organ transplant recipients fit case definitions for dapsone-related hemolytic anemia (n = 11) or methemoglobinemia (n = 5). Median time from event to dapsone discontinuation was 15 days; all patients improved after drug discontinuation. G6PD enzyme activity was normal in all patients whose test results were available. Dapsone may be associated with hemolytic anemia or methemoglobinemia, even with normal G6PD levels. These events are often not promptly recognized, and drug discontinuation is delayed. Dapsone-related hemolytic anemia or methemoglobinemia should be considered in solid organ transplant recipients with unexplained anemia or hypoxia.
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Successful Treatment of Aspergillus Prosthetic Valve Endocarditis with Oral Voriconazole. Clin Infect Dis 2005; 41:752-3. [PMID: 16080100 DOI: 10.1086/432580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2005] [Accepted: 05/04/2005] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus endocarditis is very difficult to cure, even with aggressive surgical debridement and antifungal therapy. Patients with embolic involvement of the central nervous system have an extremely poor prognosis. We describe a patient with prosthetic valve endocarditis due to Aspergillus fumigatus who developed emboli in the brain, eye, and lower extremities. With aggressive surgical debridement of involved sites, aortic valve and root replacement, and long-term therapy with oral voriconazole, he remains without any evidence of infection 2 years later.
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Epidemiologic studies of adverse effects of anti-retroviral drugs: how well is statistical power reported. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2005; 14:155-61. [PMID: 15624138 DOI: 10.1002/pds.1059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine whether there is a difference in average statistical power between pharmacoepidemiologic studies of anti-retroviral adverse drug effects (ADEs) sponsored by for-profit versus non-profit organizations. METHODS We studied all published pharmacoepidemiologic studies of ADEs associated with the 15 anti-retroviral drugs approved through the end of 1999. A priori, the primary outcome was the power of each study to detect a clinically important difference in the risk for an adverse effect among patients exposed to the study drug(s). We could not evaluate this outcome because of the infrequent reporting of power calculations. We instead report the distribution of studies across a 5-tiered measure of adequacy of reporting of statistical power, as well as the sponsorship of these studies. RESULTS Of 48 studies meeting our inclusion criteria, only 1 (2%) reported either a completed, a priori power calculation or sufficient details for readers to calculate the power to detect a pre-defined, clinically important effect. Thirty-five studies (73%) reported the minimum information required for sophisticated readers to determine the power to detect an event rate of interest to them; 6 additional studies (13%) reported confidence intervals around at least one summary effect measure and 6 (13%) provided no indication of power or uncertainty. Of the 41 studies for which sponsorship was determined, only 3 (7%) were sponsored by for-profit organizations. CONCLUSIONS The poor reporting of statistical power in this sample suggests a need for guidelines to improve the reporting of pharmacoepidemiologic studies of ADEs. Future research is needed to determine whether the observed paucity of industry-sponsored observational studies of anti-retroviral ADEs extends to other clinical areas, and if so, to identify the causes of this phenomenon.
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Abstract
This paper explores aspects of the controversy and conflict that has arisen within the nursing and medical professions regarding the emergence of nurse practitioners in the United Kingdom (U.K.). Difficulties in establishing satisfactory definitions of nurse practitioners, that allow them to be viewed decisively either within nursing or medical occupational roles, are discussed. The paper argues that the key to the debate may hinge on professional and occupational boundary redefinition which is currently resisted by some members of both the nursing and medical professions. The idea that nurse practitioners may be an evolving and discrete professional group, outside the currently accepted professional and occupational definitions of nursing and medicine, is explored. It is argued that both nursing and medicine are faced with a particular challenge in the nurse practitioner movement that is resulting in conflict as new boundaries are established.
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The integration of nursing and midwifery education within higher education: implications for teachers--a qualitative research study. J Adv Nurs 1998; 27:1278-86. [PMID: 9663880 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2648.1998.00658.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This study was a qualitative narrative that reviewed the historical developments that led to the integration of nursing and midwifery education with higher education in the United Kingdom (UK). A sample of teachers was investigated with particular reference to role conflicts they may have experienced as a result of integration. In addition to this the views of established academic university staff were assessed. The methodology adopted for the research was an eclectic qualitative one, drawing on several approaches, and sought to inquire into individuals personal perception of these events. In this paper the progression of events, nationally and locally, that led to the educational reforms in nursing and midwifery in the 1990s are examined. This narration includes a brief history of the creation of a new university department. Following this there is detail of how data were collected and analysed from a teacher population within this new department. The findings, whilst difficult to generalize to the wider population of nurse and midwife teachers, demonstrate that the sample of teachers examined, all of whom have been involved in the process of integration, have been exposed to stress that has resulted in role conflict. Established university staff, however, were more objective, expressing some broad anxieties regarding the resource demands and research capability of the new department.
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Abstract
Many studies have examined the etiology of fever complicating neutropenia. Little is known about the etiology of fever occurring immediately following recovery from myelosuppression. We reviewed 165 episodes of fever in patients who were admitted to the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center (Philadelphia) between 1 August 1992 and 15 August 1994 for the treatment of acute leukemia. We included patients who had episodes of fever (temperature of > or = 38 degrees C) for > or = 48 hours within 10 days after an absolute neutrophil count of < or = 500 cells/mm3 was determined. Twenty-nine (20%) of 145 episodes met these criteria. In 5 (17%) of 29 episodes the cause of fever was a bacterial infection, in 6 (21%) of 29 episodes the cause of fever was noninfectious, and in 12 (41%) of 29 episodes the cause of fever was unknown. Six (21%) of 29 episodes were due to documented or suspected fungal infection, four were due to suspected pulmonary aspergillosis, and two were due to systemic candidal infections. Fever following recovery from chemotherapy-induced neutropenia is common. Fungal infections occur frequently after recovery from myelosuppression despite widespread use of empirical and prophylactic antifungal therapy. Improved strategies for diagnosing and preventing fungal infections in patients who have fever following recovery from myelosuppression are clearly needed.
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MESH Headings
- Adolescent
- Adult
- Aged
- Antineoplastic Agents/adverse effects
- Aspergillosis/complications
- Bacterial Infections/complications
- Candidiasis/complications
- Female
- Fever/etiology
- Humans
- Leukemia/complications
- Leukemia/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive/complications
- Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/complications
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/drug therapy
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Neutropenia/complications
- Neutropenia/therapy
- Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma/complications
- Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma/drug therapy
- Retrospective Studies
- Risk Factors
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