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Fluoroquinolones, like Levaquin (levofloxacin) and Cipro (ciprofloxacin), are a popular class of antibiotics that are used to treat a variety of infections. While these antibiotics are highly effective, it’s important to be aware of the pros and cons associated with their use. Patients and providers should have a conversation about these side effects and potential […]

As the winter months approach, most of us are trying to find ways to stay warm. If you can’t get warm even when you’re all bundled up, it could be your medications. Understanding how medications affect cold tolerance is crucial for maintaining comfort and safety during cold weather. Common Medications That Can Lower Cold Tolerance […]

You must administer surgical prophylaxis at the time of the first incision or as close as possible.  Redose if surgery is longer than four hours.  No need for post-op, except in cardiac procedures. Usually use cefazolin 2 g (3 g for patients above 120 kg), ceftriaxone, cefotetan, cefoxitin 2 g, clindamycin 900 mg, vancomycin 15 mg/kg Cefazolin 2g is […]

*See the seizure medication table  for quick reference.*Seizure Emergencies Epilepsy Treatment Options: Know doses for narrow therapeutic index drugs like phenytoin, but mostly need to know what kind of seizure and major side effects that would cause you to choose a different therapy. Also know REMS programs. Benzos can be used as adjunctive, short-term therapy (clorazepate, clonazepam, diazepam […]

Acute Relapses: Methylprednisone 1g/day in divided doses for 3-5 days. Oral prednisone 1250 mg every other day for 5 days Intravenous adrenocortical hormones. DMARDs- Alemtuzumab – Can cause thyroid disorder, infusion reactions, increased infections (screen for herpes and TB before giving), may risk some cancers, vaccinate 6 weeks prior to therapy, avoid live vaccines during treatment. B – interferon […]

Diagnosis: Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) Positive and Negative Symptom Scale (PANSS) – 7-point, 30 item scale.  Requires a 45-minute interview Positive Symptom Rating Scale (PSRS) – 1-7 scale Brief Negative Symptoms Assessment (BNSA) 1-6 scale Treatment: Antipsychotics are the first line The Joint Commission recommends 1 antipsychotic unless: 3 failed attempts at monotherapy A plan […]