Smoking cessation through a novel behavior modification technique.

Smoking remains a major public health problem. Experiencing a myocardial infarction (MI) can be a teachable moment that results in smoking cessation when previous efforts have failed. We tested the feasibility of providing a simulated and personalized experience of an MI to facilitate quitting smoking.

Computer-assisted antimicrobial surveillance in a community teaching hospital.

A computer-assisted, pharmacy-managed antimicrobial surveillance service is described. Rising drug costs and inappropriate use of antimicrobial drugs led to the January 1994 implementation of an antimicrobial surveillance program at a 369-bed community teaching hospital. A computer interface between the pharmacy and microbiology laboratory data-bases was established that allows pharmacists quick access to culture and susceptibility test results and provides timely reports identifying patients for whom intervention may be necessary.

Continuous verapamil infusion: the nurse's role in monitoring patient outcomes.

The critical care nurse is responsible for initiating and maintaining the newest type of administration of continuous-verapamil intravenous infusion. The nurse's monitoring and evaluation of the desired and adverse effects helps the team to titrate the dosage according to the patient's response.