Introduction of steroids into the epidural space are utilized for the treatment of pain from a variety of causes. Steroids have glucocorticoid properties which downregulate processes associated with inflammation of the nerve root from compression or irritation. They also treat…
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Complexities Inherent to Healthcare Price Transparency
In the United States healthcare system, price transparency is a complex topic that has spurred countless debates. One critical sub-topic of cost of care that is rarely discussed in mainstream sources, is the difference between cost and charge. Particularly in…
Updates on Perioperative Blood Management
Anemia is an independent risk factor associated with significant morbidity and mortality. As such, managing and treating a patient’s anemia is critical to reducing the associated risks of bleeding and transfusions.1 Patient blood management is a multidisciplinary approach to managing…
Chronic Pain Linked with a Greater Probability of Memory Decline & Dementia
The aging body is predisposed to developing pain. Osteoarthritis of the neck and lower back, chronic joint pain, and musculoskeletal pain are some of the most common complaints among the elderly. However, the complex links between chronic pain, opioid use,…
Managing Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation (A Fib) is the most common sustained arrhythmia among adults. A Fib is characterized by disorganized cardiac conduction within the atria, resulting in an irregularly irregular heart rhythm. The hallmark electrocardiographic (EKG) finding associated with A Fib is…
Changes in Shift Work Policy: From Residency to Practice
Residency is an essential milestone among the multiple stages of a medical education. After attending medical school, participating in required clinical rotations and sub-internships, and completing a post-graduation internship year, qualified medical students go on to become junior residents. The…
The Anesthesiologist’s Role in Shaping Future Practices
Anesthesiologists are fundamental to the surgical care team. The role of an anesthesiologist extends beyond simply administering medication to patients; anesthesiologists must also have experience in pre-operative planning, pain management, and patient subgroup analyses in order to ensure effective and…
Trends in Randomized Controlled Trials in Anesthesia
Anesthesia providers are in a position to serve at the forefront of the evolution of patient care. The primary professional duty of an anesthesiologist is to ensure that every patient experiences a safe, accurate procedure with a palatable post-operative recovery…
Listening and Anesthesia Quality
In recent years, the medical literature has increased the emphasis on patient-provider relationships. In the context of this relationship, it is critical for the provider to practice empathy with their patients, as exemplified by the art of listening. The importance…
Avoiding Patient Misidentification: A Practical Guide
In 2018, a major academic hospital was placed in a state of urgency when they were reported for four cases of patient misidentification, each of which resulted in erroneous and inappropriate medical care[1]. In more than one case, patients received…