Should peripheral IV sites be changed routinely? NO

Peripheral IV sites are changed routinely every 3 days in at least one of the hospitals where I practice. The results of the 2013 Update of a 2010 Cochrane review comparing clinically indicated change versus routine replacement of peripheral venoous catheter sites continue to challenge this practice. There was no  statistical difference in rates of suspected catheter-related bloodstream infections between the two methods of replacement. Neither was there a difference in phlebitis rates. In their conclusions, the authors recommend that peripheral venous sites be inspected every shift and changed only if there is one of the following signs: inflammation, infiltration or blockage.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23633346?dopt=Abstract

Re-imagining geriatrics: an interesting geriatric care model

I like this geriatrician's model for delivering geriatric care. It sounds like a win-win for her and her patients. I wonder how this could be adapted to the Philippine setting.

http://www.over65.thehastingscenter.org/reimagining-geriatrics/

Who are more handsome - surgeons or internists?

In Barcelona, surgeons are taller and more handsome than internists. The 6-year old journal article was brought to my attention reading another physician's blog. Here is the link:

http://www.bmj.com/content/333/7582/1291

Change in Clinic Schedule

Clinic days in Santiago are re-schedule from 5- and 7-October to 28- and 30-Sep. Please make a note of this. Thanks!