Optimization of intelligent infusion pump technology to minimize vasopressor pump programming errors.

Background: There is a lack of data evaluating the impact of hard limit implementation into intelligent infusion pump technology (IIPT). The purpose of this study was to determine if incorporation of vasopressor upper hard limits (UHL) into IIPT increases efficacy of alerts by preventing pump programming errors.

Methods: Retrospective review from five hospitals within a single healthcare network between April 1, 2013 and May 31, 2014.

Impact of Norepinephrine Weight-Based Dosing Compared With Non-Weight-Based Dosing in Achieving Time to Goal Mean Arterial Pressure in Obese Patients With Septic Shock.

Background: Currently, a lack of standardization exists in norepinephrine dosing units, the first-line vasopressor for septic shock. Timely achievement of goal mean arterial pressure (MAP) is dependent on optimal vasopressor dosing.

Objective: To determine if weight-based dosing (WBD) of norepinephrine leads to earlier time to goal MAP compared with non-WBD in obese patients with septic shock.

Clinical dilemmas and a review of strategies to manage drug shortages.

Objective: The objectives of this article are to review the clinical implications of drug shortages highlighting patient safety, sedation, and oncology and introduce an expanded phase approach for the management of drug shortages.

Data Sources: Literature retrieval was accessed through a PubMed search of English-language sources from January 1990 through April 2012 using the medical subject heading pharmaceutical preparations/supply and distribution and the general search term drug shortages.

Study Selection And Data Extraction: All original prospective and retrospective studies, peer-reviewed guidelines, consensus statements, and review articles were evaluated for inclusion.