Internal medicine journal
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Internal medicine journal · Mar 2014
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter StudyAdherence and outcomes of patients prescribed dabigatran (Pradaxa) in routine clinical practice.
To explore and detail clinical experiences of dabigatran, a novel anticoagulant, after it became available in New Zealand in July 2011. ⋯ A high rate of discontinuation of dabigatran, mainly due to GI symptoms, was observed. There does not appear to be any specific predictor of dabigatran tolerance. When prescribed according to guidelines, rates of serious adverse events associated with dabigatran appear to be low.
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Internal medicine journal · Mar 2014
Multicenter StudyUsing periodic point-prevalence surveys to assess appropriateness of antimicrobial prescribing in Australian private hospitals.
Appropriateness of antimicrobial use is a measure of key importance in evaluating safety and quality of prescribing but has been difficult to define and assess on a wide scale. Published work is limited and has generally focused on tertiary public hospitals, whereas the private sector provides a significant proportion of care in many countries. Information on prescribing in the private hospital context is needed to identify where intervention might be required. An antimicrobial prescribing survey tool was utilised to assess the appropriateness of antimicrobial prescribing among large private hospitals in Australia. ⋯ This study provides important data on antimicrobial prescribing patterns in Australian private hospitals. Results can be used to target areas for improvement, with documentation of indication and surgical antibiotic prophylaxis requiring initial attention.