Acetaminophen Use During Pregnancy Associated with Risk of ADHD Disorders in Childhood

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A new study suggests fetal exposure to acetaminophen during pregnancy may increase risk for attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) later in life. Too little information is available on medications and safe dosages for pregnant women and their babies.  At present, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) points out non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS, like ibuprofen, … Continued

New Study Discusses SPIKES Method for Communicating Cerebral Palsy Diagnosis to Parents

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New research confirms the best practice use of the SPIKES method for conveying important diagnostic information to parents of children with cerebral palsy. SPIKES is an acronym for a communication method widely accepted by healthcare professionals for use in providing upsetting news to patients, caregivers—and parents.  A recent study published in Science Direct from the … Continued

Prevention of HAIs is the Target of Updated Infection Control Guidelines

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently updated their guidelines for prevention of infectious disease in patients and among healthcare workers. According to the CDC, on any day in the US, one in 31 hospitalized patients across the country has “at least” one infection caused by their hospitalization alone.  As we have discussed … Continued

EHR Claims for Medical Malpractice Continue to Climb

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As electronic apps and records become primary medical tools, a new study finds the number of malpractice claims involving electronic records is on the rise. The digital age is upon us and there is no turning back.  Yet, it is clear that the medical field has not found stability in the use of electronic health … Continued

Johnson & Johnson Socked with $8 Billion Verdict for Failure to Warn Physicians about Side Effects of Autism Medicine

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A jury awarded a Maryland man $8 billion from pharmaceutical and device manufacturer Johnson & Johnson after he suffered medication side effects that the company did not mention to prescribing physicians. Risperdal is an anti-psychotic drug prescribed by physicians for patients suffering schizophrenia, mania, and some dementia disorders.  It is also prescribed for disorders on … Continued

Hospital Bacteria Contributing to Increase in Heart Valve Infections

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Research suggests new dangers from healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) for patients at risk of contracting infective endocarditis. Many people understand the warning signs and danger of a heart attack.  But a lot of patients do not understand other forms of heart disease, such as infections of the heart muscle and its valves and tissues. There are … Continued

Win, Lose, or Draw—Study Finds AI Diagnosis With Same Accuracy As A Human Physician

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Will machines beat mankind in evaluating the illness and disease states that afflict the human body?  A new research effort says the jury is still out. Artificial intelligence (AI), or deep learning, is much-hyped, and for good reason.  Technology and AI are swiftly changing and challenging the way we live. Algorithms are used to hire … Continued

California Bill Protects Healthcare Workers Who Report Hospital Wrongdoing

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When nurses and healthcare workers notice problems at their facilities such as unsafe patient care or dangerous working conditions, they have a responsibility to speak out. Unfortunately, in years past it has been all too common for healthcare workers who blow the whistle on a problem to be silenced, fired or blacklisted by the facilities … Continued