A Survey for Charting Intake, Output, and Body Weight in the Electronic Medical Record.

Background: The accuracy of documentation of body weight and fluid balance in hospitalized patients is frequently questioned.

Methods: We conducted a survey to understand provider perceptions of the accuracy of intake, output, and weight charting in the electronic medical record. We sent a six-item questionnaire to nurses and physicians who provide inpatient service in a community-based teaching hospital of the Northeastern United States.

Diagnosis and treatment of lupus nephritis flares--an update.

Relapses or flares of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are frequent and observed in 27-66% of patients. SLE flares are defined as an increase in disease activity, in general, requiring alternative treatment or intensification of therapy. A renal flare is indicated by an increase in proteinuria and/or serum creatinine concentration, abnormal urine sediment or a reduction in creatinine clearance rate as a result of active disease.