Introduction of rapid methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus polymerase chain reaction testing and antibiotic selection among hospitalized patients with purulent skin infections.

Introduction of a rapid methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) polymerase chain reaction assay, with physician education and pharmacist guidance, did not significantly reduce excessive empiric prescription of MRSA-active antibiotics despite the test's accuracy and potential to substantially reduce inappropriate antibiotic use.

Marriage of professional and technical tasks: a strategy to improve obtaining informed consent.

Background: Education in obtaining informed consent, combined with technical training using a stepwise approach, may improve resident knowledge of, confidence in, and frequency of obtaining consent for bedside procedures.

Methods: Surgical trainees were randomized to receive a lecture on obtaining informed consent. Knowledge of, confidence in, and frequency of obtaining consent were assessed.