Biosimilars 101: considerations for U.S. oncologists in clinical practice.

Biosimilars of biologics used for cancer treatment and supportive care are expected to enter the U.S. market soon.

Moderate to high use of opioid analgesics are associated with an increased risk of Clostridium difficile infection.

Introduction: Risk factors for Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) include use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, advanced age and lack of an appropriate immune response. Whether antiperistaltics such as opioid analgesics also increase the risk of CDI is uncertain. The purpose of this preliminary study was to determine whether opioid analgesics increase the risk of developing CDI in hospitalized patients receiving broad-spectrum antibiotics.

Effect of bar-code-assisted medication administration on nurses' activities in an intensive care unit: a time-motion study.

Purpose: The effect of bar-code-assisted medication administration (BCMA) on nurses' activities in an intensive care unit was evaluated.

Methods: A prospective, observational, time-motion study was conducted by considering two approaches to medication administration in an intensive care unit: paper-based medication administration (PBMA) and BCMA. The time spent on nursing activities was measured using a prevalidated time-motion observation instrument and categorized based on workflow factors such as direct patient care, indirect patient care, administration, and miscellaneous or other.

Descriptive analysis of workflow variables associated with barcode-based approach to medication administration.

Bedside barcode technology is used during medication administration to ensure patient safety. This study evaluated the workflow variables related to a bedside barcode technology-based medication administration process. A time-and-motion technique was used to assess the observational episodes related to medication administration conducted by registered nurses.

Economic benefit of appropriate timing of vancomycin prophylaxis in patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery.

Study Objective: To determine if appropriate timing of vancomycin prophylaxis in patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery results in an economic benefit by assessing the differences in total duration of hospitalization and hospital costs based on infusion start time in relation to first surgical incision.

Design: Prospective, observational study.

Setting: Tertiary care medical center.