Effectiveness of a hepatitis B vaccination program at two tertiary hemodialysis centers.

Introduction: Hemodialysis (HD) patients are at increased risk of hepatitis B infection in comparison to the general population. Despite a more intensified hepatitis vaccination regimen, response rates in HD patients are typically low. The study was conducted to quantify response rate to a new hepatitis B vaccination protocol initiated in late 2015, determine risk factors affecting response rate, and assess adherence to protocol.

Acute Kidney Injury With Tobramycin-Impregnated Bone Cement Spacers in Prosthetic Joint Infections.

Background: Antibiotic-impregnated bone cement spacer (ACS) with tobramycin ± vancomycin is commonly used in a 2-stage replacement of infected prosthetic joints. This procedure has been associated with development of acute kidney injury (AKI).

Objective: To determine the incidence and risk factors for AKI after implantation of tobramycin-impregnated ACS.

Evaluation of 2 weight-based protocols for administration of heparin.

Background: In 1996, a weight-based protocol for administration of heparin was implemented and assessed at the authors' institution. Since then, several modifications have been made, including introduction of a lower-target protocol. These changes warranted re-evaluation of the standard and lower-target protocols.

Management of anemia in erythropoietin-resistant hemodialysis patients.

Background: Human recombinant erythropoietin (rHuEPO) is administered to patients with end-stage renal disease for treatment of anemia.

Objective: To assess the impact of a structured team approach to anemia management in rHuEPO-resistant hemodialysis patients.

Methods: This was an 8-month prospective, open-label, quality-improvement initiative.

Evaluation of captopril for the management of hypertension in autonomic dysreflexia: a pilot study.

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of captopril for management of hypertensive urgencies in autonomic dysreflexia.

Design: A 1-year, prospective, open-label pilot study.

Setting: Rehabilitation hospital.