A Pilot Study Describing DOAC Level Results and Association With Clinical Outcomes.

Describe direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) level ordering and interpretation practices in association with clinical outcomes at a vascular medicine clinic. This study was a retrospective, observational study including patients who had a DOAC level ordered and assessed while on DOAC therapy. The primary outcome was the proportion of DOAC levels within previously reported ranges.

Impact of Thrombocytopenia on Postoperative Bleeding Incidence in Patients Receiving Aspirin Following Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting.

Background: Early postoperative aspirin following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery has been shown to maintain bypass graft patency, reduce mortality, and prevent adverse cardiovascular events. Despite this known benefit, aspirin may be delayed due to thrombocytopenia and perceived higher bleeding risk. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of postoperative platelet count on bleeding in patients receiving aspirin after CABG.

Ultrasound-assisted catheter-directed thrombolysis versus systemic anticoagulation alone for submassive pulmonary embolism.

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality in the United States. Catheter-directed, ultrasound-assisted thrombolysis (USAT) uses high-frequency, low-energy ultrasound waves to disaggregate uncrosslinked fibrin fibers and increase thrombus penetration of a locally delivered thrombolytic to treat an acute PE. The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy and safety of catheter-directed USAT versus systemic anticoagulation alone in submassive PE.

Assessing Preceptor Use of Cognitive Apprenticeship: Is the Maastricht Clinical Teaching Questionnaire (MCTQ) a Useful Approach?

The authors investigated the utility of the Maastricht Clinical Teaching Questionnaire (MCTQ) to assess preceptor use of cognitive apprenticeship teaching methods. The MCTQ is an instrument first studied in medical and veterinary education; it was shown to produce valid and reliable data when evaluating how well preceptors engage in cognitive apprenticeship. Additional validity evidence, however, is needed to determine if the MCTQ is useful and applicable in other healthcare professions, such as pharmacy.