Managing IV nitroglycerin shortages

The seemingly sudden shortage of intravenous (IV) nitroglycerin is causing alarm in hospitals across the nation. The shortage is serious since, on average, a mid-sized hospital will use approximately 2,000 doses of IV nitroglycerin annually. » More

The myth of the vaccine-autism link persists

Unfortunately, U.S. adults don’t know enough about the safety of vaccines and the risks associated with not receiving scheduled vaccinations for highly contagious diseases, according to a survey released by the National Consumers League. » More

Psychiatric diagnoses after ICU admissions higher

Critically ill patients requiring mechanical ventilation in an intensive care unit may be at increased risk of a new psychiatric illness and medication use following hospital release, according to a report published March 19 in JAMA. » More

When valid prescriptions are refused

If a patient is denied a medication upon presentation of a valid/on-time prescription for a controlled substance, that patient may be eligible to file an ADA complaint. » More

Continuing Education

MTM essentials for hypertension management – Part 1: Nonpharmacologic therapy and geriatric considerations

This month’s article is the third in a new year-long CPE series, Medication Therapy Management Considerations for Adult Patients with Cardiovascular Disease. From February 2014 through January 2015, pharmacists can earn up to 24 hours of CPE credit with 12 monthly knowledge-based activities from the University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy and Drug Topics.

This goal of this month’s activity is to review nonpharmacologic treatment strategies relevant to medication therapy management of hypertension and introduce drug therapy considerations in geriatric patients with hypertension.

To read and print the article with TEST QUESTIONS, click here.To proceed to the online exams and earn up to 2 CPE credits, click here to log in.

Announcement: Welcome to the new user registration process. This new process requires all pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to provide or update their NABP e-Profile ID in order to electronically keep track of CPE credits from ACPE-accredited providers. If you have not done so, you can obtain your NABP e-Profile ID now at www.MyCPEmonitor.net. This profile will enable you to have one login for all the NABP programs and services you will need throughout your career.

Check these out, too

• Help on the way for insulin pen errors?

• CDC report warns about hospital infections

• Take the NAPLEX practice analysis survey

• SPCB officers and directors announced

Voices

Anticoagulation Update