Primary care
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Nexplanon is the only contraceptive implant currently available in the United States. It exerts its contraceptive effects primarily by suppressing ovulation. The Nexplanon is the most effective method of long-acting reversible contraception. ⋯ All health care providers must be trained on Nexplanon before performing insertions or removals of the implant. A Nexplanon can be inserted and/or removed as an office-based procedure. The most common adverse reaction is change in menstrual bleeding patterns.
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In an era where cardiovascular disease continues to increase in prevalence, chest pain is a commonly encountered complaint in the outpatient setting. Clinicians are often tasked with the challenge of selecting the most appropriate screening tool in the evaluation of a patient with suspected coronary artery disease. With proper consideration of indications and contraindications, exercise electrocardiogram (ECG) stress testing is an accessible, cost-conscious, and validated outpatient diagnostic modality for predicting coronary artery disease.
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Abnormal uterine bleeding is a frequent medical concern for premenopausal and postmenopausal patients. Endometrial biopsy is a safe, cost-effective option offered in the office setting. ⋯ Topical cervical analgesia and oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs decrease a patient's discomfort during endometrial biopsy. Aftercare instructions and how patients want to receive results should be reviewed in advance of performing the endometrial biopsy.
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Neonatal circumcision is one of the most common elective surgical procedures in the United States and globally. This procedure, to remove part of the penile prepuce or foreskin, is done for a variety of personal, social, and medical reasons. ⋯ Three equally safe and effective methods are used for circumcision, and each uses unique equipment: the Gomco clamp, the Mogen clamp, and the Plastibell device. Choice of technique should be guided by operator training and comfort.
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Pulmonary function testing (PFT) is an important component of the evaluation, monitoring, and management of patients with suspected or established lung disease. Spirometry is easily accomplished in the primary care office setting; determination of lung volumes and diffusion capacity is performed in a pulmonary laboratory. Spirometry evaluates vital capacity of the lungs and expiratory flow rates and provides both numeric data and a graphic depiction of respiratory air flow. Characteristic patterns in spirometry-derived data allow the clinician to identify potential lung disease, as well as establish relative reversibility of airflow abnormalities.