American journal of health-system pharmacy : AJHP : official journal of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists
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Am J Health Syst Pharm · Aug 2010
ReviewTherapeutic hypothermia for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.
The use of therapeutic hypothermia (TH) and its application in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients are reviewed. ⋯ TH is an effective strategy for improving neurologic outcomes of patients after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest due to VF. Further studies are needed to confirm the optimal time and methods for cooling to maximize the chance of complete neurologic recovery after cardiac arrest.
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Am J Health Syst Pharm · Aug 2010
ReviewReexamining the evidence for inpatient glucose control: new recommendations for glycemic targets.
To review the risks of hyperglycemia in hospitalized patients, data supporting the benefits of treating hyperglycemia, and recommendations from the 2009 American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and American Diabetes Association consensus statement on the management of inpatient hyperglycemia. ⋯ Poor glycemic control in the hospital setting is a quality-of-care, safety, and cost issue. Safe and effective strategies to implement optimal glycemic control require multidisciplinary involvement. Insulin given i.v. in the ICU or subcutaneously on an as-scheduled regimen in other parts of the hospital is the treatment of choice.
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Am J Health Syst Pharm · Aug 2010
ReviewProlonged infusions of dexmedetomidine in critically ill patients.
The efficacy and safety of dexmedetomidine when used longer than the manufacturer-recommended 24 hours were evaluated. ⋯ Dexmedetomidine is an alternative to traditional sedatives and analgesics in critically ill patients. The safety and efficacy of dexmedetomidine in adults likely persist beyond 24 hours, without the emergence of rebound effects after discontinuation.