Dealing with DRGs: analysis of serum theophylline assays in Medicare patients.

To investigate the therapeutic and economic implications of serum theophylline assay (STA) use in Medicare patients classified in diagnosis-related group 88 as having chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a retrospective audit was conducted of all serum theophylline assays ordered for these patients in a large teaching hospital during a 6-month period. Based on established pharmacokinetic principles of theophylline therapy, analysis was conducted on rational indication for assay use (n = 146), correct sampling procedure regarding steady-state and peak/trough concentrations (n = 99), and appropriateness of physician response (n = 100). Percentages of appropriate use found for these three parameters were 79.

Current approaches to management of potassium deficiency.

Current issues related to oral potassium supplementation are reviewed, with emphasis on recommendations for the appropriate use of potassium supplementation for both replacement and preventive therapy. Dietary potassium intake, potassium-sparing diuretics, and the various forms of oral potassium supplements are reviewed in terms of indications for use, advantages, and limitations. Attention is given to controversial areas, i.

Identification of drug costs within diagnosis related groups.

This study was designed to identify the DRG distribution of discharged Medicare patients during a given period of time in two similar hospital sites. Additionally, drugs costs (both total and average) for each patient in these DRGs were determined and analyzed as to similarity between the two sites as well as significance in terms of percentage of DRG total reimbursement rate. The assumption that DRGs would be homogeneous for drug costs was not found to be true in this study.

Prazosin update. A review of its pharmacological properties and therapeutic use in hypertension and congestive heart failure.

Prazosin is an orally active post-synaptic selective alpha 1-adrenoreceptor antagonist that has been widely used in treating hypertension and congestive heart failure (CHF). Its role in the treatment of hypertension has previously been reviewed in this journal. Subsequent reports confirm its efficacy in treating mild to severe hypertension as a single agent or, more frequently, in combination with another antihypertensive agent and/or a diuretic.