Oxacillin plus ertapenem rapidly clears persistent left ventricular assist device-related methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia.

There is an increasing use of left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) as bridge to transplantation or permanent destination therapy in the heart failure patient population. Infection remains a common complication in LVADs, with Gram-positive skin flora as predominant pathogens implicated, including Staphylococcus aureus. While there is emerging evidence for synergistic antibiotic combinations with methicillin resistant S.

Focusing the Lens on the CAMERA Concepts: Early Combination β-Lactam and Vancomycin Therapy in Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia.

Methicillin-resistant (MRSA) has grown to become a major burden on health care systems. The cumulation of limited therapeutic options and worsened patient outcomes with persistent MRSA bacteremia has driven research in optimizing its initial management. The guidelines published by the Infectious Diseases Society of America currently recommend combination therapy for refractory MRSA bacteremia, but the utility of combining antibiotics from the start of therapy is under investigation.

Comparison of Low- Versus High-Dose Four-Factor Prothrombin Complex Concentrate (4F-PCC) for Factor Xa Inhibitor-Associated Bleeding: A Retrospective Study.

Background: Although andexanet alfa was recently approved as a specific reversal agent for apixaban and rivaroxaban, some providers still elect to administer 4-factor prothrombin complex concentrate (4F-PCC) instead, due to concerns surrounding efficacy, thrombotic risk, administration logistics, availability, and cost. Previous studies have described success with 4F-PCC doses ranging from 25 to 35 U/kg, with some guidelines recommending 50 U/kg.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare hemostasis between patients receiving low- (20-34 U/kg) versus high-dose (35-50 U/kg) 4F-PCC for the urgent reversal of apixaban and rivaroxaban.

Comparison of Venous Thromboembolism Prophylactic Measures Post Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery.

Background: There is considerable debate surrounding venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis in patients post coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) procedures. The American College of Chest Physicians guidelines report weak recommendations for starting VTE prophylaxis, but provide no specific guidance regarding timing or preferred prophylactic agent.

Methods: This retrospective cohort study was designed to compare outcomes of post-cardiac surgery patients admitted to the cardiovascular intensive care unit (ICU) who received subcutaneous unfractionated heparin (UFH), with those who received subcutaneous enoxaparin for VTE prophylaxis.