Continuous quality improvement using intelligent infusion pump data analysis.

Purpose: The use of continuous quality-improvement (CQI) processes in the implementation of intelligent infusion pumps in a community teaching hospital is described.

Summary: After the decision was made to implement intelligent i.v.

A chemical polymorphism in a multitrophic setting: thyme monoterpene composition and food web structure.

We investigated the effects of chemical variation in thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) on its interactions with competitors, herbivores, and herbivore predators. Four different thyme monoterpene phenotypes (chemotypes) were grown in a 4x2x2 factorial of chemotype, caging (sham half-cages vs.

Patient-controlled analgesia with nalbuphine during labor.

The effectiveness and safety of nalbuphine administered via the patient-controlled analgesia system were investigated in 82 parturients during labor. Comparison of nalbuphine via the patient-controlled system versus 66 control patients receiving the same drug via intermittent intravenous bolus injections revealed it to be safe and effective in both cases. Patients receiving nalbuphine by the pump had less drowsiness and were more satisfied with their analgesia than those in the control group.

Establishment and operation of an oncology satellite pharmacy.

The justification, establishment, and operation of an oncology satellite pharmacy in a 545-bed university teaching hospital are described. The oncology satellite pharmacy was established because of concerns expressed by nurses about the potential health hazards of handling cytotoxic drug products. The satellite pharmacy, which is located near the three floors that serve the majority of the adult and pediatric oncology inpatients, is responsible for preparing all injectable cytotoxic drug products used in the institution; this includes inpatient and outpatient use.

Effect of cimetidine on phenytoin serum levels.

Cimetidine, 300 mg p.o. four times a day, was administered for 5 days to nine epileptics who were stabilized while receiving phenytoin.

Involvement of a state society of hospital pharmacists in third-party reimbursement for nondistributive services.

The investigation by a state society of hospital pharmacists of the possibilities for third-party reimbursement for nondistributive services is described. A questionnaire was sent to all hospitals in the state to determine what nondistributive services were being performed that might qualify for third-party reimbursement. A committee was established to investigate what nondistributive services were being reimbursed separately and which nondistributive services had reimbursement potential, and to establish guidelines that hospitals might use in seeking reimbursement for these services.

Hepatitis and hemolytic anemia associated with methyldopa therapy.

The reported incidences of methyldopa-induced hepatitis and hemolytic anemia is notably small; however, practitioners should be aware of its association with these disorders. The mechanisms responsible for these adverse reactions have not been fully explained, but possible multisystem involvement is being recognized. Although the number of reported cases of hepatitis and AIHA seen concurrently in patients on methyldopa is few, one should recognize that the potential for such association does exist.

Pharmacokinetic principles in relation to serum drug sample collections.

Pharmacokinetics is a relatively new field in the health sciences. It is receiving more interest and utilization as patients' serum drug levels are being correlated with clinical response and drug side effects and toxicities. Many variable factors influence serum drug levels, consequently affecting the interpretation of these levels and possibly altering therapy.