British journal of anaesthesia
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Observational Study
Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic model for unfractionated heparin dosing during cardiopulmonary bypass.
High-dose heparin is used during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) to prevent thrombosis in the circuits used for extracorporeal circulation. The aim of this study was, initially, to develop a population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) model to assess the variability of PK/PD parameters and their correlation with the results of the routine haemostatic test activated clotting time (ACT) and thereafter to develop a Bayesian estimator enabling an individualized dosing strategy. ⋯ A population PK/PD analysis of heparin during CPB, using a routine haemostatic test, shows that Bayesian estimation might help to predict ACT on the basis of only one or two blood samples.
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Myocardial injury after non-cardiac surgery (MINS), a complication with unclear pathogenesis, occurs within the first 30 days after surgery and worsens prognosis. Hypercoagulability induced by surgery might contribute to plaque rupture, with subsequent thrombosis and myocardial injury. This study assessed haemostatic markers before surgery and evaluated their association with MINS. ⋯ NCT00512109.
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The learning environment describes the context and culture in which trainees learn. In order to establish the feasibility and reliability of measuring the anaesthetic learning environment in individual departments we implemented a previously developed instrument in hospitals across New South Wales. ⋯ Our results confirm that, using this instrument, individual departments can obtain acceptable precision in results with achievable trainee numbers. Additionally, with the exception of departments with few trainees, implementation proved feasible across a training region. Repeated use would allow departments or accrediting bodies to monitor their individual learning environment and the impact of changes such as the introduction of new curricular elements, or local initiatives to improve trainee experience.