Incidence and predictors of MRI scan utilization in MRI-conditional pacemaker recipients: A multicenter experience.

Background: Patient characteristics, higher device cost, and vendor contracts likely prevent use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-conditional pacemakers (MRC) in all pacemaker (PM)-eligible patients. We sought to identify the incidence and predictors of MRI scan utilization in MRC recipients.

Methods: Patients receiving an MRC or non-MRI-conditional PM (NMRC) at four centers were included.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of magnetic resonance imaging-conditional pacemaker implantation: Insights from a multicenter study and implications in the current era.

Background: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-conditional pacemakers (M-PPMs) grant patients greater accessibility to MRI scans. The cost-effectiveness of implanting M-PPM is unknown.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the cost-effectiveness of M-PPM implantation.

Trends in central line-associated bloodstream infections in a trauma-surgical intensive care unit.

Objective: To report the impact of hospital-wide interventions on central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rates in a 24-bed trauma-surgical intensive care unit.

Design: Data were gathered retrospectively from January 1, 2001, through June 30, 2009. Interventions to reduce CLABSI rates during this period included standardization of line insertion and maintenance processes, development of a mandatory education program incorporating practical line insertion simulation sessions, frequent audits, and intensive care unit staffing modifications.

Moving evidence from the literature to the bedside: report from the APIC Research Task Force.

Research is an integral component of the mission of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC). In January 2010, APIC 's Board of Directors decided to update and clarify the Association's approach to research. The purpose of this paper is to briefly review the history of APIC's role in research and to report on the recent vision and direction developed by a research task force regarding appropriate roles and contributions for APIC and its members in regards to research.

Sitcom syncope: a case series and literature review of gelastic (laughter-induced) syncope.

Syncope is a common complaint that is frequently evaluated without identifying a precipitating cause. Gelastic (laughter-induced) syncope is an uncommon and poorly understood condition. We describe 3 patients who experienced loss of consciousness during vigorous laughter.

An association between Takotsubo cardiomyopathy and thyroid storm.

A 65-year-old woman presented to the hospital with weight loss and diarrhea. A diagnosis of thyroid storm was established by the presence of fever, lethargy, tachycardia, heart failure (HF), and abnormal thyroid function tests. An acute coronary syndrome (ACS) was suspected because of anteroseptal ST-segment elevations on electrocardiogram and severe left ventricular (LV) dysfunction with apical dilation on echocardiogram.

Target: zero hospital-acquired infections.

Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) take a significant toll not only on patients, but also on a hospital's bottom line. By taking a zero tolerance approach to HAIs, hospital leaders can improve patient safety and financial performance. Eliminating HAIs requires clear goals, a committed leadership, access to resources, a best-practice mindset, effective people management, and ongoing vigilance.

Pericardial tamponade masquerading as septic shock.

A 53-year-old man with steroid dependent rheumatoid arthritis presented with fever and serous articular drainage. Oral antibiotics were initially prescribed. Subsequent hemodynamic instability was attributed to septic shock.

Infective endocarditis after oral body piercing.

Body piercing has become an increasingly common practice in the United States and elsewhere. Although perceived as a relatively safe practice, it poses the risk of numerous infectious complications. Oral body piercing in particular has significant potential risk given the known relationship of oral flora to bacteremia.