More articles from 1-Minute Consult
- Does incidentally detected common bile duct dilation need evaluation?
A patient-centered approach and knowledge of the diagnostic yield of further testing helps determine appropriate management.
- Does my patient need an allergy evaluation for penicillin allergy?
In patients with reported penicillin allergy, obtaining a detailed allergy history directly from the patient is the essential first step.
- Does my hospitalized patient need an NPO-after-midnight order preoperatively?
Delays and postponements of surgical procedures are common, and NPO-after-midnight orders in these situations can result in prolonged periods without oral intake.
- Should my older adult patients take aspirin for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease?
For patients age 70 and older, recent evidence shows that the harms outweigh the benefits.
- Is Aspergillus isolated from respiratory cultures clinically significant?
Aspergillus is ubiquitous, so the significance of the finding depends on the patient’s symptoms, underlying lung condition, immune status, and radiologic fi ndings.
- How do you effectively evaluate the elderly for alcohol use disorder?
A brief review of clues to an underrecognized and underdiagnosed problem with physical as well as emotional and social consequences.
- Can I place a peripherally inserted central catheter in my patient with chronic kidney disease?
Future need for permanent dialysis access is an important consideration.
What antithrombotic therapy should I use for my patient with atrial fibrillation who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention or had an acute coronary syndrome?The risk of thrombosis should be balanced with the risk of bleeding.
- Is it safe to start steroids at home for a COPD exacerbation after virtual assessment in the COVID-19 era?
Yes. Corticosteroids are beneficial, and virtual visits are appropriate, especially in this pandemic.
- How should you assess glycemic control if the hemoglobin A1c is inaccurate or uninterpretable?
Hemoglobin A1c is the standard but is not perfect. Alternatives are available.