Dtsch Arztebl Int
-
In view of the rise in antibiotic resistance and Clostridium difficile superinfection, close monitoring of antibiotic prescribing practices is essential so that targeted quality assurance measures can be taken. ⋯ This study revealed an overall decline in outpatient antibiotic prescriptions for persons under age 15 as well as other major changes in prescribing practices for the types of antibiotics studied. The observed marked rise in cephalosporin prescribing rates in all German states demands special attention because of the associated danger of increased antibiotic resistance and C. difficile superinfection. Oral cephalosporins are not recommended as drugs of first choice in current guidelines.
-
Proper infant nutrition promotes healthy growth and development and lowers the risk of disease in later life. ⋯ Physicians should advise families about healthful infant nutrition in order to lay the foundation for lifelong good health through a proper diet.
-
Despite improved treatment options, heart failure remains the third most common cause of death in Germany and the most common reason for hospitalization. The treatment recommendations contained in the relevant guidelines have been incompletely applied in practice. The goal of this systematic review is to study the efficacy of adherence-promoting interventions for patients with heart failure with respect to the taking of medications, the implementation of recommended lifestyle changes, and the improvement in clinical endpoints. ⋯ Many effective interventions are available that can lead to sustained improvement in patient adherence and in clinical endpoints. Longterm success depends on patients' assuming responsibility for their own health and can be achieved with the aid of coordinated measures such as patient education and regular follow-up contacts.