More articles from 1-Minute Consult
- Which patients with pulmonary embolism need echocardiography?
The decision should be based on clinical presentation, burden of pulmonary embolism, and other imaging fi ndings.
- How should we diagnose and manage checkpoint inhibitor-associated colitis?
Rule out infection, especially Clostridium difficile, then order colonoscopy or computed tomography.
- What can we do about musculoskeletal pain from bisphosphonates?
The authors recommend acetaminophen before infusions, and acetaminophen or NSAIDs if an acute-phase reaction occurs.
- Which patients with a parapneumonic effusion need a chest tube?
Hospitalized patients with pneumonia who develop a complicated effusion or empyema need one.
- What should I address at follow-up of patients who survive critical illness?
Cognitive decline, psychiatric disturbances, and physical weakness can persist 1 year or longer.
- When does S aureus bacteremia require transesophageal echocardiography?
TTE is a good starting point, but TEE is indicated in patients with a high pretest probability of endocarditis.
- What inpatient treatments do we have for acute intractable migraine?
Options: volume repletion, antiemetics, antiepileptics, NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and magnesium sulfate. Avoid opioids.
- How soon should patients with infective endocarditis be referred for valve surgery?
Refer sooner rather than later if the patient has heart failure, uncontrolled infection, or embolic risk.
- Are serum troponin levels elevated in conditions other than acute coronary syndrome?
Yes. Troponin elevation is a nonspecific sign.
- Hypertension in older adults: What is the target blood pressure?
Goal: systolic pressure below 130 mm Hg if the patient can take multiple medications and be followed closely.