Identifying errors and inconsistencies in real time while using facilitated echocardiographic reporting.

Background: Facilitated reporting using a discrete set of finding codes (FCs) is a common method of generating echocardiographic reports.

Methods: The investigators developed a tool that allows echocardiographic reports to be evaluated in real time for errors, omissions, and inconsistencies on the basis of a defined group of "rules" applied to the FCs present in the report. At the time of report finalization, conflicts were displayed for the interpreting physicians, and their responses to each rule conflict were logged.

Diagnosis and treatment of familial hypercholesterolaemia.

Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder, associated with elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), which can lead to premature cardiovascular disease. Early diagnosis of FH is important to prevent morbidity and mortality. Familial hypercholesterolaemia is usually diagnosed using clinical characteristics, such as family history, and cholesterol levels; however, genetic testing may provide a definite diagnosis of FH by detecting a pathological mutation.

Quality improvement in the door-to-balloon times for ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients presenting without chest pain.

Objective: To assess a quality improvement initiative aimed at minimizing door-to-balloon (DTB) times for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients presenting without chest pain.

Background: Timely percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is the cornerstone of STEMI care. The absence of chest pain delays PCI.

Autoimmune hepatitis associated with the use of black cohosh: a case study.

Herbal remedies generate more than 1.8 billion dollars in annual sales in the United States. Herbal products have been associated with a wide spectrum of hepatic toxicities.