Revista médica de Chile
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Revista médica de Chile · Nov 2014
[Correlation between aPTT and antifactor Xa to determine therapeutic ranges for unfractionated heparin].
The therapeutic range (TR) of activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) for unfractionated heparin (UFH) dosing was established in the 1970 decade. Since then aPTT determination has changed. Current TR may be sub or supra-therapeutic depending on the reagents of the test, and therefore, responsible for complications of therapy. ⋯ According to current recommendations, validation of aPTT determination with reference techniques should be done in every institution.
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Revista médica de Chile · Oct 2014
Comparative Study[Treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis using 2009 American Diabetes Association guidelines].
During 2009, new guidelines for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis were published by the American Diabetes Association. ⋯ Introduction of the ADA-2009 protocol for the treatment of KAD resulted in decrease in the use of intravenous bicarbonate and a reduction in the incidence of hypokalemia. There was no impact neither in the lapse until resolution or lethality.
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Revista médica de Chile · Oct 2014
[Influence of psychosocial factors on adherence to antihypertensive drug therapy: results from a Cardiovascular Health Program cohort followed in the Metropolitan Region of Santiago, Chile].
Inadequate blood pressure control in hypertensive patients remains a persistent health problem in Chile and worldwide. Poor adherence to antihypertensive drug therapy is one of the frequently cited factors. ⋯ Our study highlights the influence of inadequate patient-physician relation, high level of emotional stress and depression, low education level and income and male gender in the lack of adherence to antihypertensive drug therapy in hypertensive patients followed throughout the CHP.
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Breaking bad news is a complex task that requires multiple communication skills from health professionals. Clinical practice demands to communicate all type of bad news, from a diagnosis of cancer to adverse effects of a treatment. ⋯ We revise the consequences of breaking bad news for the patient and for the health care provider, as well as the current protocols available for this purpose. The importance of developing communication skills both for future health professionals as for those who currently work in the area is emphasized.