The Journal of family practice
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The use of opioids in acute pain may be appropriate in some situations, but there are opportunities to reduce exposure to opioids with equally effective monotherapy and combination therapy over-thecounter (OTC) medications. There are a number of OTC analgesics that are readily accessible and costeffective options to treat pain. ⋯ Nonopioid OTC analgesics, such as NSAIDs and the NSAID/acetaminophen combination, are safe and effective firstline options for managing acute dental pain according to the American Dental Association. The American College of Physicians supports the use of NSAIDs as first-line therapy for the treatment of low back pain.
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Following these guidelines to order fewer tests can improve health care quality and patient experience, while reducing wasteful costs.
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At the end of the activity, participants will be able to:Implement evidence-based methods for cognitive impairment screening in primary care. Identify correct diagnostic criteria for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer disease (AD) based on current guideline recommendations. Design appropriate and effective treatment plans for patients with MCI and AD and refer to a specialist when necessary. Describe advances in testing and treatment for AD that may impact dementia care.
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New evidence is reshaping the role of low-dose aspirin in primary prevention. More selective decisions are now urged.
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At the end of the activity, participants will be able to:Describe approaches to improve recognition of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and anemia in primary care. Explain the importance of early management of anemia in CKD to reduce adverse outcomes and improve symptoms. Prescribe evidence-based treatment for patients with anemia in CKD who can be managed in the primary care setting. Discuss emerging evidence for new agents being studied for treating anemia in CKD.