In the News
BNP predicts mortality, even in patients without heart failure
The results suggest that an elevated B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) level in a patient without heart failure may warrant additional investigation, including assessment of cardiac structure and function, study authors said.
Surgical, nonsurgical management of hip fracture compared in nursing home residents with advanced dementia
Patients who had been managed surgically had less documented pain and fewer pressure ulcers, but use of antipsychotic drugs and physical restraints did not appear to differ, and few patients in either group remained ambulatory at six months.
Six-minute walk distance before cardiac surgery predicts cognitive dysfunction afterward
In addition to six-minute walk distance, intensive care unit length of stay, age, and Mini-Mental State Examination score were found to be independent risk factors for postoperative cognitive dysfunction.
Family participation in ICU rounds may yield benefit, study finds
ICU rounds with family present were longer, but analyses suggested positive effects on relationship building, information gathering, patient and family education, team dynamics, and shared clinical decision making.
May issue online and in the mail
This month's issue of ACP Hospitalist focuses on reducing heart failure readmissions, improving ICU care, and combating sexual harassment in medicine.
Vote for your favorite entry
ACP Hospitalist Weekly's cartoon caption contest continues. Readers can vote for their favorite caption to determine the winner.