The American journal of medicine
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Antimicrobial agents are among the most frequently prescribed medications during hospitalization. However, approximately 30% to 50% or more of inpatient antimicrobial use is unnecessary or suboptimal. ⋯ Further, we discuss supporting data to dispel each of these myths. This analysis will provide hospitalists and other clinicians with a foundation for rational decision-making about antimicrobial use and support antimicrobial stewardship efforts at both the patient and institutional levels.
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Multicancer early detection panels have recently become available to patients with a provider's prescription and an out-of-pocket fee. Beyond theoretical modeling, little is known about how these assays will impact primary care practices despite a high likelihood that primary care providers (PCPs) will be ordering these tests with some frequency. In particular, there are concerns about patient counseling, costs, frequency of testing, patient anxiety, and subsequent testing for a positive result. This review aims to appraise the current literature and provide a framework that PCPs can use to discuss these tests with patients and streamline their ordering, interpretation, and overall use into everyday practice.