Using waist circumference to screen for metabolic syndrome in an inpatient population.

Objective: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) involves a combination of factors that increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. With no immediate physical symptoms or medical problems associated with this disorder, the diagnosis of MetS is a challenging one. The most widely recognized metabolic criteria (lipid profile, blood pressure, and glucose level) are commonly performed during a hospitalization.

Improving outcomes in high-risk populations using REACH: an inpatient cardiac risk reduction program.

The high prevalence of cardiovascular disease and its associated mortality rates mandate that risk reduction strategies be addressed in high-risk populations, including those diagnosed with atherosclerotic vascular disease, heart failure, and diabetes mellitus. Hospital-based systems that can identify and guide management of these high-risk populations can be effective adjuncts to patient care.In 2001, an inpatient cardiovascular risk assessment program called REACH was developed at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital (ALGH), a community teaching hospital in Illinois.