Antimicrobial Stewardship
Antimicrobial resistance is an increasing problem. In some instances of infection there have been frighteningly few if any effective antibiotics. To try to slow the spread of resistance many national organizations including the Infectious Diseases Society of America, the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America, and the American Academy of Pediatrics are advocating programs of antimicrobial stewardship in hospitals.
Samaritan Infectious Disease physicians in collaboration with hospital pharmacy are beginning implementation of an antimicrobial stewardship program. In instances where inpatient antimicrobial use might be optimized, recommendations will be provided to attending physicians for improved antibiotic choices through regular reviews by the ID physicians and ward pharmacists. Improved patient outcomes and the avoidance of "collateral damage " from antimicrobials (i.e., Clostridium difficile infection and antimicrobial toxicity) are goals of this program in addition to trying to slow the advent of antimicrobial resistance.
Spanish Flu - The Great Influenza Pandemic of 1918
Lessons from history
By understanding events surrounding the 1918 “Spanish Flu” Pandemic, clinicians can gain perspective on the potential medical and societal impact of future infectious diseases pandemics. Listen to and view images from Dr. Muth's presentation on this topic by clicking here.
The Approach to the Patient with Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia
Staphylococcus aureus has a very unique niche in medicine as both a common and virulent human pathogen. Understanding the approach to patients with bloodstream infection with this organism is very important for clinicians. A powerpoint presentation (PDF format - 1180kb) concerning this topic is available by clicking here.