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Current Clinical Strategies

Family Medicine

2008 Edition
Paul D. Chan, MD Christopher R. Winkle, MD Peter J. Winkle, MD

Current Clinical Strategies Publishing

www.ccspublishing.com/ccs

Digital Book and Updates

Purchasers of this book can download the Palm, Pocket PC, Windows or Macintosh version and updates at the Current ClinicalStrategies Publishing web site:www.ccspublishing.com/ccs/fm.htm

Copyright © 2008 Current Clinical Strategies Publishing. All rights reserved. This book, or any parts thereof, may not be reproducedor stored in an information retrieval network without the written permission of the publisher. The reader is advised to consult thepackage insert and other references before using any therapeuticagent. The publisher disclaims any liability, loss, injury, or damageincurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, of the use andapplication of any of the contents of this text. This book has beenrevised and updated since the original edition.

Current Clinical Strategies Publishing PO Box 1753 Blue Jay, CA 92317 Phone: 800-331-8227; 949-348-8404 Fax: 800-965-9420; 949-348-8405 Internet: www.ccspublishing.com/ccs E-mail: info@ccspublishing.com

Printed in USA ISBN 978-1-934323-04-5

INTERNAL MEDICINE

medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) Documentation

History and Physical Examination

Identifying Data: Patient's name; age, race, sex. List the patient’ssignificant medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) problems. Name of informant (patient, relative).

Chief Compliant: Reason given by patient for seeking medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)care and the duration of the symptom. List all of the patientsmedical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) problems.

History of Present Illness (HPI): Describe the course of the patient's illness, including when it began, character of the symptoms, location where the symptoms began; aggravating oralleviating factors; pertinent positives and negatives. Describepast illnesses or surgeries, and past diagnostic testing.

Past medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) History (PMH): Past diseases, surgeries, hospitalizations; medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) problems; history of diabetes, hypertension,peptic ulcer disease, asthma, myocardial infarction, cancer. Inchildren include birth history, prenatal history, immunizations,and type of feedings.

Medications: Allergies: Penicillin, codeine? Family History: medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) problems in family, including the patient's

disorder. Asthma, coronary artery disease, heart failure, cancer,tuberculosis. Social History: Alcohol, smoking, drug usage. Marital status,employment situation. Level of education.

Review of Systems (ROS): General: Weight gain or loss, loss of appetite, fever, chills, fatigue, night sweats. Skin: Rashes, skin discolorations. Head: Headaches, dizziness, masses, seizures. Eyes: Visual changes, eye pain. Ears: Tinnitus, vertigo, hearing loss. Nose: Nose bleeds, discharge, sinus diseases. Mouth and Throat: Dental disease, hoarseness, throat pain. Respiratory: Cough, shortness of breath, sputum (color). Cardiovascular: Chest pain, orthopnea, paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea; dyspnea on exertion, claudication, edema, valvular disease. Gastrointestinal: Dysphagia, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, hematemesis, diarrhea, constipation, melena (black tarry stools), hematochezia (bright red blood per rectum).

Genitourinary: Dysuria, frequency, hesitancy, hematuria, discharge. Gynecological: Gravida/para, abortions, last menstrual period (frequency, duration), age of menarche, menopause; dysmenorrhea, contraception, vaginal bleeding, breast masses. Endocrine: Polyuria, polydipsia, skin or hair changes, heat intolerance. Musculoskeletal: Joint pain or swelling, arthritis, myalgias. Skin and Lymphatics: Easy bruising, lymphadenopathy. Neuropsychiatric: Weakness, seizures, memory changes, depression.

Physical Examination General appearance: Note whether the patient appears ill, well,

or malnourished. Vital Signs: Temperature, heart rate, respirations, blood pressure. Skin: Rashes, scars, moles, capillary refill (in seconds).Lymph Nodes: Cervical, supraclavicular, axillary, inguinal nodes;

size, tenderness. Head: Bruising, masses. Check fontanels in pediatric patients.Eyes: Pupils equal round and react to light and accommodation

(PERRLA); extra ocular movements intact (EOMI), and visualfields. Funduscopy (papilledema, arteriovenous nicking, hemorrhages, exudates); scleral icterus, ptosis.

Ears: Acuity, tympanic membranes (dull, shiny, intact, injected,bulging).Mouth and Throat: Mucus membrane color and moisture; oral lesions, dentition, pharynx, tonsils.

Neck: Jugulovenous distention (JVD) at a 45 degree incline,thyromegaly, lymphadenopathy, masses, bruits,abdominojugular reflux.

Chest: Equal expansion, tactile fremitus, percussion, auscultation,rhonchi, crackles, rubs, breath sounds, egophony, whisperedpectoriloquy.

Heart: Point of maximal impulse (PMI), thrills (palpable turbulence); regular rate and rhythm (RRR), first and second heartsounds (S1, S2); gallops (S3, S4), murmurs (grade 1-6), pulses(graded 0-2+).

Breast: Dimpling, tenderness, masses, nipple discharge; axillary masses.

Abdomen: Contour (flat, scaphoid, obese, distended); scars,bowel sounds, bruits, tenderness, masses, liver span by percussion; hepatomegaly, splenomegaly; guarding, rebound, percussion note (tympanic), costovertebral angle tenderness (CVAT),suprapubic tenderness.

Genitourinary: Inguinal masses, hernias, scrotum, testicles, varicoceles. Pelvic Examination: Vaginal mucosa, cervical discharge, uterinesize, masses, adnexal masses, ovaries.

Extremities: Joint swelling, range of motion, edema (grade 1-4+);cyanosis, clubbing, edema (CCE); pulses (radial, ulnar, femoral,popliteal, posterior tibial, dorsalis pedis; simultaneous palpationof radial and femoral pulses).

Rectal Examination: Sphincter tone, masses, fissures; test foroccult blood, prostate (nodules, tenderness, size).

Neurological: Mental status and affect; gait, strength (graded 05); touch sensation, pressure, pain, position and vibration; deeptendon reflexes (biceps, triceps, patellar, ankle; graded 0-4+);Romberg test (ability to stand erect with arms outstretched andeyes closed).

Cranial Nerve Examination:

I: Smell

II: Vision and visual fields III, IV, VI: Pupil responses to light, extraocular eye movements, ptosis

V: Facial sensation, ability to open jaw against resistance, cornealreflex.

VII: Close eyes tightly, smile, show teeth

VIII: Hears watch tic; Weber test (lateralization of sound whentuning fork is placed on top of head); Rinne test (air conduction last longer than bone conduction when tuning fork isplaced on mastoid process)

IX, X: Palette moves in midline when patient says “ah,” speech

XI: Shoulder shrug and turns head against resistance

XII: Stick out tongue in midline

Labs: Electrolytes (sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, chloride,BUN, creatinine), CBC (hemoglobin, hematocrit, WBC count,platelets, differential); X-rays, ECG, urine analysis (UA), liverfunction tests (LFTs).

Assessment (Impression): Assign a number to each problemand discuss separately. Discuss differential diagnosis and givereasons that support the working diagnosis; give reasons forexcluding other diagnoses.

Plan: Describe therapeutic plan for each numbered problem,including testing, laboratory studies, medications, and antibiotics.

Admission Check List
  1. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) and request old chart, ECG, and X-rays.

  2. Stat labs: CBC, Chem 7, cardiac enzymes (myoglobin,troponin, CPK), INR, PTT, C&S, ABG, UA.

  3. Labs: Toxicology screens and drug levels.

  4. Cultures: Blood culture x 2, urine and sputum culture (beforeinitiating antibiotics), sputum Gram stain, urinalysis.

  5. CXR, ECG, diagnostic studies.

  6. Discuss case with resident, attending, and family.

Progress Notes

Daily progress notes should summarize developments in a patient's hospital course, problems that remain active, plans totreat those problems, and arrangements for discharge. Progress notes should address every element of the problem list.

Progress Note
Date/time: Subjective: Any problems and symptoms of the patientshould be charted. Appetite, pain, headaches or insomniamay be included.Objective:General appearance.Vitals, including highest temperature over past 24 hours.Fluid I/O (inputs and outputs), including oral, parenteral,urine, and stool volumes. Physical exam, including chest and abdomen, with particularattention to active problems. Emphasize changes fromprevious physical exams.Labs: Include new test results and circle abnormal values. Current medications: List all medications and dosages.Assessment and Plan: This section should be organized byproblem. A separate assessment and plan should be written for each problem.
Procedure Note

A procedure note should be written in the chart when a procedureis performed. Procedure notes are brief operative notes.

Procedure Note
Date and time: Procedure: Indications: Patient Consent: Document that the indications and risks were explained to the patient and that the patient consented: “The patient understands the risks of the procedureand consents in writing.”Lab tests: Relevant labs, such as the INR and CBC, chemistry.Anesthesia: Local with 2% lidocaine. Description of Procedure: Briefly describe the procedure,including sterile prep, anesthesia method, patient position,devices used, anatomic location of procedure, and outcome. Complications and Estimated Blood Loss (EBL):Disposition: Describe how the patient tolerated the procedure. Specimens: Describe any specimens obtained and labs testswhich were ordered.
Discharge Note

The discharge note should be written in the patient’s chart prior todischarge.

Discharge Note
Date/time:Diagnoses:Treatment: Briefly describe treatment provided during hospitalization, including surgical procedures and antibiotictherapy.Studies Performed: Electrocardiograms, CT scans.Discharge Medications:Follow-up Arrangements:
Discharge Summary

Patient's Name and medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) Record Number: Date of Admission: Date of Discharge: Admitting Diagnosis: Discharge Diagnosis: Attending or Ward Team Responsible for Patient: Surgical Procedures, Diagnostic Tests, Invasive Procedures: Brief History, Pertinent Physical Examination, and Laboratory

Data: Describe the course of the patient's disease up until thetime that the patient came to the hospital, including physicalexam and laboratory data.

Hospital Course: Describe the course of the patient's illness while in the hospital, including evaluation, treatment, medications, and outcome of treatment.

Discharged Condition: Describe improvement or deterioration inthe patient's condition, and describe present status of thepatient.

Disposition: Describe the situation to which the patient will bedischarged (home, nursing home), and indicate who will takecare of patient.

Discharged Medications: List medications and instructions for patient on taking the medications.

Discharged Instructions and Follow-up Care: Date of return for follow-up care at clinic; diet, exercise.

Problem List: List all active and past problems.

Copies: Send copies to attending, clinic, consultants.

Prescription Writing
  • Patient’s name:

  • Date:

  • Drug name, dosage form, dose, route, frequency (includeconcentration for oral liquids or mg strength for oral solids):Amoxicillin 125mg/5mL 5 mL PO tid

  • Quantity to dispense: mL for oral liquids, # of oral solids

  • Refills: If appropriate

  • Signature

Cardiovascular Disorders

ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
  1. Admit to: Coronary care unit

  2. Diagnosis: Rule out myocardial infarction 3 Condition:

  1. Vital Signs: q1h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if pulse >90,<60; BP >150/90,<90/60; R>25, <12; T >38.5°C.

  2. Activity: Bed rest with bedside commode.

  1. Nursing: Guaiac stools. If patient has chest pain, obtain 12lead ECG and Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician.

  2. Diet: Cardiac diet, 1-2 gm sodium, low-fat, low-cholesterol diet.No caffeine or temperature extremes.

  1. IV Fluids: D5W at TKO

  2. Special Medications:

-Oxygen 2-4 L/min by NC.

-Aspirin 325 mg PO, chew and swallow immediately, then aspirinEC 162 mg PO qd OR Clopidogrel (Plavix) 75 mg PO qd (if allergic to aspirin).

-Nitroglycerin 10 mcg/min infusion (50 mg in 250-500 mL D5W,100-200 mcg/mL). Titrate to control symptoms in 5-10 mcg/minsteps, up to 1-3 mcg/kg/min; maintain systolic BP >90 OR

-Nitroglycerin SL, 0.4 mg (0.15-0.6 mg) SL q5min until pain free(up to 3 tabs) OR -Nitroglycerin spray (0.4 mg/aerosol spray) 1-2 sprays under thetongue q 5min; may repeat x 2.

-Heparin 60 U/kg IV (max 4000 U) push, then 12 U/kg/hr (max1000 U/hr) by continuous IV infusion for 48 hours to maintainaPTT of 50-70 seconds. Check aPTTq6h x 4, then qd. RepeataPTT 6 hours after each heparin dosage change.

Thrombolytic Therapy (within first 6 hours of onset of chestpain)

Absolute Contraindications to Thrombolytics: Active internal bleeding, suspected aortic dissection, known intracranialneoplasm, previous intracranial hemorrhagic stroke at anytime, other strokes or cerebrovascular events within 1 year,head trauma, pregnancy, recent non-compressible vascularpuncture, uncontrolled hypertension (>180/110 mm Hg).

Relative Contraindications to Thrombolytics: Severe hypertension, cerebrovascular disease, recent surgery (within 2weeks), cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

A. Alteplase (tPA, tissue plasminogen activator, Activase):

  1. 15 mg IV push over 2 min, followed by 0.75 mg/kg (max 50mg) IV infusion over 30 min, followed by 0.5 mg/kg (max 35mg) IV infusion over 60 min (max total dose 100 mg).

  2. Labs: INR/PTT, CBC, fibrinogen.

B. Reteplase (Retavase):

  1. 10 U IV push over 2 min; repeat second 10 U IV push after30 min.

  2. Labs: INR, aPTT, CBC, fibrinogen.

C. Tenecteplase (TNKase): <60 kg 30 mg IVP60-69 kg 35 mg IVP70-79 kg 40 mg IVP80-89 kg 45 mg IVP$90 kg 50 mg IVP

C. Streptokinase (Streptase):

  1. 1.5 million IU in 100 mL NS IV over 60 min. Pretreat with diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 50 mg IV push AND Methylprednisolone (Soln-Medrol) 250 mg IV push.

  2. Check baseline fibrinogen level and q6h for 24h until level>100 mg/dL.

  3. No IM or arterial punctures, watch IV for bleeding.Beta-Blockers (within the first 12 hours of onset of chestpain): Contraindicated in cardiogenic shock.

-Metoprolol (Lopressor) 5 mg IV q2-5min x 3 doses; then 25 mgPO q6h for 48h, then 100 mg PO q12h; hold if heart rate<60/min or systolic BP <100 mm Hg OR

-Atenolol (Tenormin), 5 mg IV, repeated in 5 minutes, followedby 50-100 mg PO qd OR

-Esmolol (Brevibloc) 500 mcg/kg IV over 1 min, then 50mcg/kg/min IV infusion, titrated to heart rate >60 bpm (max300 mcg/kg/min).

Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitor (within the first 24hours of onset of chest pain):

-Lisinopril (Zestril, Prinivil) 2.5-5 mg PO qd; titrate to 10-20 mgqd.

Long-Acting Nitrates:-Nitroglycerin patch 0.2 mg/hr qd. Allow for nitrate-free period toprevent tachyphylaxis.-Isosorbide dinitrate (Isordil) 10-60 mg PO tid [5,10,20, 30,40mg] OR -Isosorbide mononitrate (Imdur) 30-60 mg PO qd.

Aldosterone Receptor Blocker if EF <40%:

-Eplerenone (Inspra) 24 mg PO qd

-Spironolactone (Aldactone) 25 mg PO qd

Statins: -Rosuvastatin (Crestor) 10 mg PO qhs OR -Atorvastatin (Lipitor) 10 mg PO qhs OR -Pravastatin (Pravachol) 40 mg PO qhs OR -Simvastatin (Zocor) 40 mg PO qhs OR -Lovastatin (Mevacor) 20 mg PO qhs OR -Fluvastatin (Lescol)10-20 mg PO qhs.

11. Symptomatic Medications:

-Morphine sulfate 2-4 mg IV push prn chest pain.-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 325-650 mg PO q4-6h prn head

ache. -Lorazepam (Ativan) 1-2 mg PO tid-qid prn anxiety-Zolpidem (Ambien) 5-10 mg qhs prn insomnia.-Docusate (Colace) 100 mg PO bid.-Ondansetron (Zofran) 2-4 mg IV q4h prn nausea or vomiting.-Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV/PO bid OR -Lansoprazole (Prevacid) 30 mg qd.

  1. Extras: ECG stat and in 12h and in AM, portable CXR, impedance cardiography, echocardiogram. Cardiology consult.

  2. Labs: SMA7 and 12, magnesium. Cardiac enzymes: CPK,CPK-MB, troponin, myoglobin STAT and q8h x 3. CBC,INR/PTT, UA.

Non-ST Segment Elevation MyocardialInfarction (NSTEMI) and Unstable Angina

1. Admit to: Coronary care unit

2. Diagnosis: Acute coronary syndrome 3 Condition:

  1. Vital Signs: q1h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if pulse >90,<60; BP >150/90,<90/60; R>25, <12; T >38.5°C.

  2. Activity: Bed rest with bedside commode.

  1. Nursing: Guaiac stools. If patient has chest pain, obtain 12lead ECG and Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician.

  2. Diet: Cardiac diet, 1-2 gm sodium, low fat, low cholesterol. Nocaffeine or temperature extremes.

  1. IV Fluids: D5W at TKO

  2. Special Medications:

-Oxygen 2-4 L/min by NC. -Aspirin 325 mg PO, chew and swallow immediately, then

aspirin EC 162 mg PO qd OR -Clopidogrel (Plavix) 75 mg PO qd (if allergic to aspirin) OR -Aspirin 325 mg to chew and swallow, then 81-162 mg PO qd

PLUS clopidogrel 300 mg PO x 1, then 75 mg PO qd.

-Nitroglycerin infusion 10 mcg/min infusion (50 mg in 250-500mL D5W, 100-200 mcg/mL). Titrate to control symptoms in5-10 mcg/min steps, up to 1-3 mcg/kg/min; maintain systolicBP >90 OR

-Nitroglycerin SL, 0.4 mg mg SL q5min until pain-free (up to 3tabs) OR -Nitroglycerin spray (0.4 mg/aerosol spray) 1-2 sprays underthe tongue q 5min; may repeat 2 times.

-Heparin 60 U/kg IV push, then 15 U/kg/hr by continuous IVinfusion for 48 hours to maintain aPTT of 50-70 seconds. Check aPTTq6h x 4, then qd. Repeat aPTT 6 hours aftereach dosage change.

Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Blockers in High-Risk Patients and Thosewith Planned Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI): -Eptifibatide (Integrilin) 180 mcg/kg IVP, then 2 mcg/kg/min for 48-72 hours OR -Tirofiban (Aggrastat) 0.4 mcg/kg/min for 30 min, then 0.1mcg/kg/min for 48-108 hours.

Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Blockers for Use During PCI: -Abciximab (ReoPro) 0.25 mg/kg IVP, then 0.125 mcg/kg/minIV infusion for 12 hours OR -Eptifibatide (Integrilin) 180 mcg/kg IVP, then 2 mcg/kg/min for 18-24 hours. Beta-Blockers: Contraindicated in cardiogenic shock.

-Metoprolol (Lopressor) 5 mg IV q2-5min x 3 doses; then 25mg PO q6h for 48h, then 100 mg PO q12h; keep HR<60/min, hold if systolic BP <100 mm Hg OR

-Atenolol (Tenormin), 5 mg IV, repeated in 5 minutes, followedby 50-100 mg PO qd OR

-Esmolol (Brevibloc) 500 mcg/kg IV over 1 min, then 50mcg/kg/min IV infusion, titrated to heart rate >60 bpm (max300 mcg/kg/min).

Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors:

-Lisinopril (Zestril, Prinivil) 2.5-5 mg PO qd; titrate to 10-20 mg

qd. -Benazepril (Lotensin) 10 mg qd OR -Rampril (Altace) 5-10 mg qd OR -Perindopril (Aceon) 4-8 mg qd.

Long-Acting Nitrates:

-Nitroglycerin patch 0.2 mg/hr qd. Allow for nitrate-free periodto prevent tachyphylaxis.-Isosorbide dinitrate (Isordil) 10-60 mg PO tid [5,10,20, 30,40mg] OR -Isosorbide mononitrate (Imdur) 30-60 mg PO qd.

Statins: -Rosuvastatin (Crestor) 10 mg PO qd OR -Atorvastatin (Lipitor) 10 mg PO qhs OR -Pravastatin (Pravachol) 40 mg PO qhs OR -Simvastatin (Zocor) 40 mg PO qhs OR -Lovastatin (Mevacor) 20 mg PO qhs OR -Fluvastatin (Lescol)10-20 mg PO qhs.

11. Symptomatic Medications:

-Morphine sulfate 2-4 mg IV push prn chest pain.-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 325-650 mg PO q4-6h prn head

ache. -Lorazepam (Ativan) 1-2 mg PO tid-qid prn anxiety. -Zolpidem (Ambien) 5-10 mg qhs prn insomnia. -Docusate (Colace) 100 mg PO bid. -Ondansetron (Zofran) 2-4 mg IV q4h prn N/V. -Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV/PO bid OR -Lansoprazole (Prevacid) 30 mg qd.

  1. Extras: ECG stat and in 12h and in AM, portable CXR,impedance cardiography, echocardiogram. Cardiology consult.

  2. Labs: SMA7 and 12, magnesium. Cardiac enzymes: CPK,CPK-MB, troponin, myoglobin STAT and q6h for 24h. CBC,INR/PTT, UA.

Congestive Heart Failure

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Congestive Heart Failure

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q1h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if P >120; BP >150/100<80/60; T >38.5EC; R >25, <10.

  1. Activity: Bed rest with bedside commode.

  2. Nursing: Daily weights, measure inputs and outputs. Head-ofbed at 45 degrees, legs elevated.

  3. Diet: 1-2 gm salt, cardiac diet.

  4. IV Fluids: Heparin lock with flush q shift.

9. Special Medications:

-Oxygen 2-4 L/min by NC.

Diuretics: -Furosemide (Lasix) 10-160 mg IV qd-bid or 20-80 mg POqAM-bid [20, 40, 80 mg] or 10-40 mg/hr IV infusion OR -Torsemide (Demadex) 10-40 mg IV or PO qd; max 200mg/day [5, 10, 20, 100 mg] OR -Bumetanide (Bumex) 0.5-1 mg IV q2-3h until response; then0.5-1.0 mg IV q8-24h (max 10 mg/d); or 0.5-2.0 mg PO qAM.-Metolazone (Zaroxolyn) 2.5-10 mg PO qd, max 20 mg/d; 30min before loop diuretic [2.5, 5, 10 mg].

ACE Inhibitors: -Quinapril (Accupril) 5-10 mg PO qd x 1 dose, then 20-80 mgPO qd in 1 to 2 divided doses [5, 10, 20, 40 mg] OR -Lisinopril (Zestril, Prinivil) 5-40 mg PO qd [5, 10, 20, 40 mg]OR -Benazepril (Lotensin) 10-20 mg PO qd-bid, max 80 mg/d [5,10, 20, 40 mg] OR -Fosinopril (Monopril) 10-40 mg PO qd, max 80 mg/d [10, 20mg] OR -Ramipril (Altace) 2.5-10 mg PO qd, max 20 mg/d [1.25, 2.5, 5,10 mg].-Captopril (Capoten) 6.25-50 mg PO q8h [12.5, 25,50,100 mg]OR -Enalapril (Vasotec) 1.25-5 mg slow IV push q6h or 2.5-20 mgPO bid [5,10,20 mg] OR -Moexipril (Univasc) 7.5 mg PO qd x 1 dose, then 7.5-15 mgPO qd-bid [7.5, 15 mg tabs] OR -Trandolapril (Mavik) 1 mg qd x 1 dose, then 2-4 mg qd [1, 2, 4mg tabs].

Angiotensin-II Receptor Blockers:-Irbesartan (Avapro) 150 mg qd, max 300 mg qd [75, 150, 300mg].-Losartan (Cozaar) 25-50 mg bid [25, 50 mg].-Valsartan (Diovan) 80 mg qd; max 320 mg qd [80, 160 mg].-Candesartan (Atacand) 8-16 mg qd-bid [4, 8, 16, 32 mg].-Telmisartan (Micardis) 40-80 mg qd [40, 80 mg].

Adosterone Receptor Blockers:

-Spironolactose (Aldactone) 25 mg PO qd

-Eplerenone (Inspra) 25 mg PO qd.

Beta-Blockers: -Carvedilol (Coreg) 1.625-3.125 mg PO bid, then slowly increase the dose every 2 weeks to target dose of 25-50 mgbid [tab 3.125, 6.25, 12.5, 25 mg] OR -Metoprolol (Lopressor) start at 12.5 mg bid, then slowly increase to target dose of 100 mg bid [50, 100 mg] OR -Bisoprolol (Zebeta) start at 1.25 mg qd, then slowly increaseto target of 10 mg qd [5,10 mg] OR -Metoprolol XL (Toprol XL) 50-100 mg PO qd.

Digoxin (Lanoxin) 0.125-0.25 mg PO or IV qd [0.125, 0.25, 0.5

mg].

Inotropic Agents:-Dobutamine (Dobutrex) 2.5-10 mcg/kg/min IV, max of 14mcg/kg/min (500 mg in 250 mL D5W, 2 mcg/mL) OR -Dopamine (Intropin) 3-15 mcg/kg/min IV (400 mg in 250 ccD5W, 1600 mcg/mL), titrate to CO >4, CI >2; systolic >90OR -Milrinone (Primacor) 0.375 mcg/kg/min IV infusion (40 mg in200 mL NS, 0.2 mg/mL); titrate to 0.75 mgc/kg/min;arrhythmogenic; may cause hypotension.

Vasodilators: -Nitroglycerin 5 mcg/min IV infusion (50 mg in 250 mL D5W).Titrate in increments of 5 mcg/min to control symptoms andmaintain systolic BP >90 mmHg.-Nesiritide (Natrecor) 2 mcg/kg IV load over 1 min, then 0.010mcg/kg/min IV infusion. Titrate in increments of 0.005mcg/kg/min q3h to max 0.03 mcg/kg/min IV infusion.

Potassium:

-KCL (Micro-K) 20-60 mEq PO qd if the patient is taking

loop diuretics.

Pacing:-Synchronized biventricular pacing if ejection fraction <40%and QRS duration >135 msec.

10. Symptomatic Medications:-Morphine sulfate 2-4 mg IV push prn dyspnea or anxiety.-Heparin 5000 U SQ q12h or enoxaparin (Lovenox) 1 mg/kgSC q12h.-Docusate (Colace) 100-200 mg PO qhs.-Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV/PO q12h OR -Lansoprazole (Prevacid) 30 mg qd.

  1. Extras: CXR PA and LAT, ECG now and repeat if chest painor palpitations, impedance cardiography, echocardiogram.

  2. Labs: SMA 7&12, CBC; B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), cardiac enzymes: CPK, CPK-MB, troponin, myoglobin STAT and q6hfor 24h. Repeat SMA 7 in AM. UA.

Supraventricular Tachycardia

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: PSVT

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q1h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <90/60; apicalpulse >130, <50; R >25, <10; T >38.5EC

5. Activity: Bedrest with bedside commode.

6. Nursing

  1. Diet: Low fat, low cholesterol, no caffeine.

  2. IV Fluids: D5W at TKO.

9. Special Medications:Attempt vagal maneuvers (Valsalva maneuver) before drugtherapy.

Cardioversion (if unstable or refractory to drug therapy):

  1. NPO for 6h, digoxin level must be less than 2.4 and potassium and magnesium must be normal.

  2. Midazolam (Versed) 2-5 mg IV push.

  3. If stable, cardiovert with synchronized 10-50 J, and increaseby 50 J increments if necessary. If unstable, start with 100 J,then increase to 200 J and 360 J.

Pharmacologic Therapy of Supraventricular Tachycardia:-Adenosine (Adenocard) 6 mg rapid IV over 1-2 sec, followedby saline flush, may repeat 12 mg IV after 2-3 min, up tomax of 30 mg total OR -Verapamil (Isoptin) 2.5-5 mg IV over 2-3 min (may give calcium gluconate 1 gm IV over 3-6 min prior to verapamil);then 40-120 mg PO q8h [40, 80, 120 mg] or verapamil SR120-240 mg PO qd [120, 180, 240 mg] OR -Esmolol(Brevibloc) 500 mcg/kg IV over 1 min, then 50mcg/kg/min IV infusion, titrated to HR of <80 (max of 300mcg/kg/min) OR -Diltiazem (Cardizem) 0.25 mg/kg IV over 2-5 minutes, followed by 5 mg/h IV infusion. Titrate to max 15 mg/h; thendiltiazem-CD (Cardizem-CD) 120-240 mg PO qd OR -Metoprolol (Lopressor) 5 mg IVP q4-6h; then 50-100 mg PObid, or metoprolol XL (Toprol-XL) 50-100 mg PO qd OR -Digoxin (Lanoxin) 0.25 mg q4h as needed; up to 1.0-1.5 mg;then 0.125-0.25 mg PO qd.

10.Symptomatic Medications:-Lorazepam (Ativan) 1-2 mg PO tid prn anxiety.

11.Extras: Portable CXR, ECG; repeat if chest pain. Cardiology

consult.

12.Labs: CBC, SMA 7 & 12, Mg, thyroid panel. UA.

Ventricular Arrhythmias

1. Ventricular Fibrillation and Tachycardia: -If unstable (see ACLS protocol): Defibrillate with unsynchronized 200 J, then 300 J.-Oxygen 100% by mask.-Lidocaine (Xylocaine) loading dose 75-100 mg IV, then 2-4mg/min IV OR

-Amiodarone (Cordarone) 300 mg in 100 mL of D5W, IV infusion over 10 min, then 900 mg in 500 mL of D5W, at 1mg/min for 6 hrs, then at 0.5 mg/min thereafter; or 400 mgPO q8h x 14 days, then 200-400 mg qd. -Also see “other antiarrhythmics” below.

2. Torsades de Pointes Ventricular Tachycardia:-Correct underlying causes, including hypomagnesemia, andhypokalemia, and consider discontinuing quinidine, procainamide, disopyramide, moricizine, amiodarone, sotalol,ibutilide, phenothiazine, haloperidol, tricyclic and tetracyclicantidepressants, ketoconazole, itraconazole, bepridil.-Magnesium sulfate 1-4 gm in IV bolus over 5-15 min, or infuse3-20 mg/min for 7-48h until QTc interval <440 msec.-Isoproterenol (Isuprel), 2-20 mcg/min (2 mg in 500 mL D5W,4 mcg/mL).-Consider ventricular pacing and/or cardioversion.

3. Other Antiarrhythmics:Class I:

-Moricizine (Ethmozine) 200-300 mg PO q8h, max 900 mg/d

[200, 250, 300 mg].

Class Ia: -Quinidine gluconate (Quinaglute) 324-648 mg PO q8-12h [324mg].-Procainamide (Procan, Procanbid)

IV: 15 mg/kg IV loading dose at 20 mg/min, followed by 2-4 mg/min continuous IV infusion. PO: 500 mg (nonsustained release) PO q2h x 2 doses, then Procanbid 1-2 gm PO q12h [500, 1000 mg].

-Disopyramide (Norpace, Norpace CR) 100-300 mg PO q6-8h[100, 150, mg] or disopyramide CR 100-150 mg PO bid[100, 150 mg].

Class Ib: -Lidocaine (Xylocaine) 75-100 mg IV, then 2-4 mg/min IV-Mexiletine (Mexitil) 100-200 mg PO q8h, max 1200 mg/d [150,200, 250 mg].-Tocainide (Tonocard) loading 400-600 mg PO, then 400-600mg PO q8-12h (1200-1800 mg/d) PO in divided doses q812h [400, 600 mg].-Phenytoin (Dilantin), loading dose 100-300 mg IV given as 50mg in NS over 10 min IV q5min, then 100 mg IV q5min prn.

Class Ic: -Flecainide (Tambocor) 50-100 mg PO q12h, max 400 mg/d[50, 100, 150 mg].-Propafenone (Rythmol) 150-300 mg PO q8h, max 1200 mg/d[150, 225, 300 mg].

Class II: -Propranolol (Inderal) 1-3 mg IV in NS (max 0.15 mg/kg) or 2080 mg PO tid-qid [10, 20, 40, 60, 80 mg]; propranolol-LA(Inderal-LA), 80-120 mg PO qd [60, 80, 120, 160 mg]-Esmolol (Brevibloc) loading dose 500 mcg/kg over 1 min, then50-200 mcg/kg/min IV infusion-Atenolol (Tenormin) 50-100 mg/d PO [25, 50, 100 mg].-Nadolol (Corgard) 40-100 mg PO qd-bid [20, 40, 80, 120, 160mg].-Metoprolol (Lopressor) 50-100 mg PO bid-tid [50, 100 mg], ormetoprolol XL (Toprol-XL) 50-200 mg PO qd [50, 100, 200mg].

Class III: -Amiodarone (Cordarone), PO loading 400-1200 mg/d in divided doses for 2-4 weeks, then 200-400 mg PO qd (5-10mg/kg) [200 mg] or amiodarone (Cordarone) 300 mg in 100mL of D5W, IV infusion over 10-20 min, then 900 mg in 500mL of D5W, at 1 mg/min for 6 hrs, then at 0.5 mg/min thereafter. -Sotalol (Betapace) 40-80 mg PO bid, max 320 mg/d in 2-3divided doses [80, 160 mg].

    1. Extras: CXR, ECG, Holter monitor, signal averaged ECG,

    2. cardiology consult.
  1. Labs: SMA 7&12, Mg, calcium, CBC, drug levels. UA.

Hypertensive Emergencies

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Hypertensive emergencies

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q30min until BP controlled, then q4h.

  5. Activity: Bed rest

  1. Nursing: Intra-arterial BP monitoring, daily weights, inputs and outputs.

  2. Diet: Clear liquids.

8. IV Fluids: D5W at TKO.

9. Special Medications:-Nitroprusside sodium 0.25-10 mcg/kg/min IV (50 mg in 250mL of D5W), titrate to desired BP-Labetalol (Trandate, Normodyne) 20 mg IV bolus (0.25mg/kg), then 20-80 mg boluses IV q10-15min, titrate todesired BP or continuous IV infusion of 1.0-2.0 mg/min,titrate to desired BP. Ideal in patients with thoracic or aorticabdominal aneurysm.-Fenoldopam (Corlopam) 0.01mcg/kg/min IV infusion. Adjustdose by 0.025-0.05 mcg/kg/min q15min to max 0.3mcg/kg/min. [10 mg in 250 mL D5W].-Nicardipine (Cardene IV) 5 mg/hr IV infusion, increase rate by

2.5 mg/hr every 15 min up to 15 mg/hr (25 mg in D5W 250mL).

-Enalaprilat (Vasotec IV) 1.25- 5.0 mg IV q6h. Do not use inpresence of acute myocardial infarction or bilateral renalstenosis.

-Esmolol (Brevibloc) 500 mcg/kg/min IV infusion for 1 minute,then 50 mcg/kg/min; titrate by 50 mcg/kg/min increments to300 mcg/kg/min (2.5 gm in D5W 250 mL).

-Clonidine (Catapres), initial 0.1-0.2 mg PO followed by 0.1 mgper hour until DBP <115 (max total dose of 0.8 mg).-Phentolamine (pheochromocytoma), 5-10 mg IV, repeated asneeded up to 20 mg.-Trimethaphan (Arfonad [dissecting aneurysm]) 2-4 mg/min IVinfusion (500 mg in 500 mL of D5W).

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 325-650 mg PO q4-6h prn head

ache.

-Zolpidem (Ambien) 5-10 mg qhs prn insomnia.

-Docusate sodium (Colace) 100-200 mg PO qhs.

  1. Extras: Portable CXR, ECG, impedance cardiography,echocardiogram.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7, UA with micro. TSH, free T4, 24h urine for metanephrine. Plasma catecholamines, urine drug screen.

Hypertension

I. Initial Diagnostic Evaluation of Hypertension

A. 15-Lead electrocardiography may document evidence ofischemic heart disease, rhythm and conduction disturbances, or left ventricular hypertrophy.

B. Screening labs. Complete blood count, glucose, potassium, calcium, creatinine, BUN, uric acid, and fasting lipidpanel.

C. Urinalysis. Glucose, protein, and hemoglobin.

D. Selected patients may require plasma renin activity, 24hour urine catecholamines.

II.
Antihypertensive Drugs
A.
Thiazide Diuretics
  1. Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ, HydroDiuril), 12.5-25 mg qd [25 mg].

  2. Chlorothiazide (Diuril) 250 mg qd [250, 500 mg].

  3. Thiazide/Potassium Sparing Diuretic Combinations

a.
Maxzide (hydrochlorothiazide 50/triamterene 75 mg) 1 tab qd.
b.
Moduretic (hydrochlorothiazide 50 mg/amiloride 5mg) 1 tab qd.
c.
Dyazide (hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg/triamterene37.5) 1 cap qd.

B. Beta-Adrenergic Blockers

1. Cardioselective Beta-Blockers

a.
Atenolol (Tenormin) initial dose 50 mg qd, then 50100 mg qd, max 200 mg/d [25, 50, 100 mg].
b.
Metoprolol XL (Toprol XL) 100-200 mg qd [50, 100, 200 mg tab ER].
c.
Bisoprolol (Zebeta) 2.5-10 mg qd; max 20 mg qd [5,10 mg].

2. Non-Cardioselective Beta-Blockers

a.
Propranolol LA (Inderal LA), 80-160 mg qd [60, 80, 120, 160 mg].
b.
Nadolol (Corgard) 40-80 mg qd, max 320 mg/d [20,40, 80, 120, 160 mg].
c.
Pindolol (Visken) 5-20 mg qd, max 60 mg/d [5, 10 mg].
d.
Carteolol (Cartrol) 2.5-10 mg qd [2.5, 5 mg].

C. Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors

  1. Ramipril (Altace) 2.5-10 mg qd, max 20 mg/day [1.25, 2.5, 5, 10 mg].

  2. Quinapril (Accupril) 20-80 mg qd [5, 10, 20, 40 mg].

  3. Lisinopril (Zestril, Prinivil) 10-40 mg qd [2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40 mg].

  4. Benazepril (Lotensin) 10-40 mg qd, max 80 mg/day [5, 10, 20, 40 mg].

  5. Fosinopril (Monopril) 10-40 mg qd [10, 20 mg].

  6. Enalapril (Vasotec) 5-40 mg qd, max 40 mg/day [2.5, 5, 10, 20 mg].

  7. Moexipril (Univasc) 7.5-15 mg qd [7.5 mg].

D. Angiotensin Receptor Blockers

  1. Losartan (Cozaar) 25-50 mg bid [25, 50 mg].

  2. Valsartan (Diovan) 80-160 mg qd; max 320 mg qd [80, 160 mg].

    1. Irbesartan (Avapro) 150 mg qd; max 300 mg qd [75,

    2. 150, 300 mg].
  3. Candesartan (Atacand) 8-16 mg qd-bid [4, 8, 16, 32 mg].

  4. Telmisartan (Micardis) 40-80 mg qd [40, 80 mg].

E. Calcium Entry Blockers

1. Diltiazem SR (Cardizem SR) 60-120 mg bid [60, 90, 120 mg] or Cardizem CD 180-360 mg qd [120, 180, 240, 300 mg].

  1. Nifedipine XL (Procardia-XL, Adalat-CC) 30-90 mg qd[30, 60, 90 mg].

  2. Verapamil SR (Calan SR, Covera-HS) 120-240 mg qd[120, 180, 240 mg].

  1. Amlodipine (Norvasc) 2.5-10 mg qd [2.5, 5, 10 mg].

  2. Felodipine (Plendil) 5-10 mg qd [2.5, 5, 10 mg].

Syncope

  1. Admit to: Monitored ward

  2. Diagnosis: Syncope

  1. Condition:

  2. Vital Signs: q1h, postural BP and pulse q12h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician ifBP >160/90, <90/60; P >120, <50; R>25, <10

  3. Activity: Bed rest.

  1. Nursing: Fingerstick glucose.

  2. Diet: Regular

  3. IV Fluids: Normal saline at TKO.

  4. Special medications: High-Grade AV Block with Syncope:

-Atropine 1 mg IV x 2.-Isoproterenol 0.5-1 mcg/min initially, then slowly titrate to 10mcg/min IV infusion (1 mg in 250 mL NS).-Transthoracic pacing. Drug-Induced Syncope:

-Discontinue vasodilators, centrally acting hypotensive agents,tranquilizers, antidepressants, and alcohol use.

Vasovagal Syncope:

-Scopolamine 1.5 mg transdermal patch q3 days.

Postural Syncope:-Midodrine (ProAmatine) 2.5 mg PO tid, then increase to 5-10mg PO tid [2.5, 5 mg]; contraindicated in coronary arterydisease. -Fludrocortisone 0.1-1.0 mg PO qd.

10. Symptomatic Medications:-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 325-650 mg PO q4-6h prn headache. -Docusate sodium (Colace) 100-200 mg PO qhs.

  1. Extras: CXR, ECG, 24h Holter monitor, electrophysiologicstudy, tilt test, CT/MRI, EEG, impedance cardiography,echocardiogram.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7&12, CPK, CK-MB, troponin, myoglobin,Mg, calcium, drug levels. UA, urine drug screen.

Pulmonary Disorders

Asthma

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Exacerbation of asthma

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q6h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if P >140; R >30, <10; T >38.5EC; pulse oximeter <90%

  1. Activity: Up as tolerated.

  2. Nursing: Pulse oximeter, bedside peak flow rate before andafter bronchodilator treatments.

  3. Diet: Regular, no caffeine.

  4. IV Fluids: D5 ½ NS at 125 cc/h.

9. Special Medications:

-Oxygen 2 L/min by NC. Keep O2 sat >90%.

Beta-Agonists, Acute Treatment:-Albuterol (Ventolin) 0.5 mg and ipratropium (Atrovent) 0.5 mgin 2.5 mL NS q1-2h until peak flow meter $200-250 L/min and sat $90%, then q4h OR -Levalbuterol (Xopenex) 0.63-1.25 mg by nebulization q6-8h prn.-Albuterol (Ventolin) MDI 3-8 puffs, then 2 puffs q3-6h prn, orpowder 200 mcg/capsule inhaled qid.-Albuterol/Ipratropium (Combivent) 2-4 puffs qid.

Systemic Corticosteroids:-Methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol) 60-125 mg IV q6h; then 3060 mg PO qd. OR -Prednisone 20-60 mg PO qAM.

Aminophylline and Theophylline (second-line therapy):-Aminophylline load dose: 5.6 mg/kg total body weight in 100mL D5W IV over 20 min. Maintenance of 0.5-0.6 mg/kg ideal body weight/h (500 mg in 250 mL D5W); reduce if elderly,heart/liver failure (0.2-0.4 mg/kg/hr). Reduce load 50-75% iftaking theophylline (1 mg/kg of aminophylline will raise levels2 mcg/mL) OR -Theophylline IV solution loading dose 4.5 mg/kg total bodyweight, then 0.4-0.5 mg/kg ideal body weight/hr.-Theophylline (Theo-Dur) 100-400 mg PO bid (3 mg/kg q8h);80% of total daily IV aminophylline in 2-3 doses.

Maintenance Inhaled Corticosteroids (adjunct therapy):-Advair Diskus (fluticasone/salmeterol) one puff bid [doses of100/50 mcg, 250/50 mcg, and 500/50 mcg]. Not appropriatefor acute attacks. -Beclomethasone (Beclovent) MDI 4-8 puffs bid, with spacer 5min after bronchodilator, followed by gargling with water.-Triamcinolone (Azmacort) MDI 2 puffs tid-qid or 4 puffs bid.-Flunisolide (AeroBid) MDI 2-4 puffs bid.-Fluticasone (Flovent) 2-4 puffs bid (44 or 110 mcg/puff).

Maintenance Treatment: -Salmeterol (Serevent) 2 puffs bid; not effective for acuteasthma because of delayed onset of action.-Pirbuterol (Maxair) MDI 2 puffs q4-6h prn.

-Bitolterol (Tornalate) MDI 2-3 puffs q1-3min, then 2-3 puffs q4

8h prn. -Fenoterol (Berotec) MDI 3 puffs, then 2 bid-qid. -Ipratropium (Atrovent) MDI 2-3 puffs tid-qid.

Prevention and Prophylaxis:

-Cromolyn (Intal) 2-4 puffs tid-qid. -Nedocromil (Tilade) 2-4 puffs bid-qid. -Montelukast (Singulair) 10 mg PO qd. -Zafirlukast (Accolate) 20 mg PO bid. -Zileuton (Zyflo) 600 mg PO qid.

Acute Bronchitis -Ampicillin/sulbactam (Unasyn) 1.5 gm IV q6h OR -Cefuroxime (Zinacef) 750 mg IV q8h OR -Cefuroxime axetil (Ceftin) 250-500 mg PO bid OR -Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim DS), 1 tab PO bid

OR

-Levofloxacin (Levaquin) 500 mg PO/IV PO qd [250, 500 mg].-Amoxicillin 875 mg/clavulanate 125 mg (Augmentin 875) 1 tabPO bid.

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Docusate sodium (Colace) 100 mg PO qhs. -Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV/PO q12h OR -Lansoprazole (Prevacid) 30 mg qd. -Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 325-650 mg PO q4-6h prn head

ache. -Zolpidem (Ambien) 5-10 mg qhs prn insomnia.

  1. Extras: Portable CXR, ECG, pulmonary function tests beforeand after bronchodilators; pulmonary rehabilitation; impedancecardiography, echocardiogram.

  2. Labs: ABG, CBC with eosinophil count, SMA7, B-typenatriuretic peptide (BNP). Theophylline level stat and after 24h ofinfusion. Sputum Gram stain, C&S.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Exacerbation of COPD

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q4h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if P >130; R >30, <10; T >38.5EC; O2 saturation <90%.

  1. Activity: Up as tolerated; bedside commode.

  2. Nursing: Pulse oximeter. Measure peak flow with portablepeak flow meter bid and chart with vital signs. No sedatives.

  3. Diet: No added salt, no caffeine. Push fluids.

  4. IV Fluids: D5 1/2 NS with 20 mEq KCL/L at 125 cc/h.

9. Special Medications:

-Oxygen 1-2 L/min by NC or 24-35% by Venturi mask, keep O2saturation 90-91%.

Beta-Agonists, Acute Treatment:

-Albuterol (Ventolin) 0.5 mg and ipratropium (Atrovent) 0.5 mgin 2.5 mL NS q1-2h until peak flow meter $200-250 L/min, then q4h prn OR

-Levalbuterol (Xopenex) 0.63-1.25 mg by nebulization q6-8h

prn. -Albuterol (Ventolin) MDI 2-4 puffs q4-6h. -Albuterol/Ipratropium (Combivent) 2-4 puffs qid.

Maintenance Corticosteroids and Anticholinergics:

-Methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol) 60-125 mg IV q6h or 3060 mg PO qd. Followed by:-Prednisone 20-60 mg PO qd.-Triamcinolone (Azmacort) MDI 2 puffs qid or 4 puffs bid.-Beclomethasone (Beclovent) MDI 4-8 puffs bid with spacer,

followed by gargling with water OR -Flunisolide (AeroBid) MDI 2-4 puffs bid OR -Ipratropium (Atrovent) MDI 2 puffs tid-qid OR -Fluticasone (Flovent) 2-4 puffs bid (44 or 110 mcg/puff).

Aminophylline and Theophylline (second line therapy):

-Aminophylline loading dose, 5.6 mg/kg total body weight over20 min (if not already on theophylline); then 0.5-0.6 mg/kgideal body weight/hr (500 mg in 250 mL of D5W); reduce ifelderly, or heart or liver disease (0.2-0.4 mg/kg/hr). Reduceloading to 50-75% if already taking theophylline (1 mg/kg ofaminophylline will raise levels by 2 mcg/mL) OR

-Theophylline IV solution loading dose, 4.5 mg/kg total bodyweight, then 0.4-0.5 mg/kg ideal body weight/hr.-Theophylline long acting (Theo-Dur) 100-400 mg PO bid-tid (3mg/kg q8h); 80% of daily IV aminophylline in 2-3 doses.

Acute Bronchitis

-Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Septra DS) 160/800 mg PO

bid or 160/800 mg IV q12h (10-15 mL in 100 cc D5W tid) OR -Cefuroxime (Zinacef) 750 mg IV q8h OR -Ampicillin/sulbactam (Unasyn) 1.5 gm IV q6h OR -Doxycycline (Vibra-tabs) 100 mg PO/IV bid OR -Azithromycin (Zithromax) 500 mg x 1, then 250 mg PO qd x 4

or 500 mg IV q24h OR -Clarithromycin (Biaxin) 250-500 mg PO bid OR -Levofloxacin (Levaquin) 500 mg PO/IV qd [250, 500 mg].

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Docusate sodium (Colace) 100 mg PO qhs. -Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV/PO bid OR -Lansoprazole (Prevacid) 30 mg qd. -Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 325-650 mg PO q4-6h prn head

ache. -Zolpidem (Ambien) 5-10 mg qhs prn insomnia.

  1. Extras: Portable CXR, PFTs with bronchodilators, ECG, impedance cardiography, echocardiogram.

  2. Labs: ABG, CBC, SMA7, UA. Theophylline level stat and after12-24h of infusion. Sputum Gram stain and C&S, alpha 1antitrypsin level.

Hemoptysis

  1. Admit to: Intensive care unit

  2. Diagnosis: Hemoptysis

  1. Condition:

  2. Vital Signs: q1-6h. Orthostatic BP and pulse bid. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <90/60; P >130, <50; R>25, <10; T>38.5EC; O2 sat <90%.

  1. Activity: Bed rest with bedside commode. Keep patient inlateral decubitus, Trendelenburg’s position, bleeding sidedown.

  2. Nursing: Quantify all sputum and expectorated blood, suction prn. O2 at 100% by mask, pulse oximeter. Discontinue narcotics and sedatives. Have double lumen endotracheal tube available for use. Foley to closed drainage.

  1. Diet: NPO

  2. IV Fluids: 1 L of NS wide open ($6 gauge), then transfusePRBC. Then infuse D5 1/2 NS at 125 cc/h.

9. Special Medications:-Transfuse 2-4 U PRBC wide open.-Promethazine/codeine (Phenergan with codeine) 5 cc PO q46h prn cough. Contraindicated in massive hemoptysis.-Initiate empiric antibiotics if bronchitis or infection is present.

  1. Extras: CXR PA, LAT, ECG, VQ scan, contrast CT, bronchoscopy. PPD, pulmonary and thoracic surgery consults.

  2. Labs: Type and cross 2-4 U PRBC. ABG, CBC, platelets,SMA7 and 12, ESR. Anti-glomerular basement antibody, rheumatoid factor, complement, anti-nuclear cytoplasmic antibody. Sputum Gram stain, C&S, AFB, fungal culture, and cytology qAM for 3days. UA, INR/PTT, von Willebrand Factor. Repeat CBC q6h.

Anaphylaxis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Anaphylaxis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q1-4h; Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP systolic >160, <90;diastolic >90, <60; P >120, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC

  5. Activity: Bedrest

6. Nursing: O2 at 6 L/min by NC or mask. Keep patient inTrendelenburg's position, No. 4 or 5 endotracheal tube atbedside. Foley to closed drainage.

  1. Diet: NPO

  2. IV Fluids: 2 IV lines. Normal saline or LR 1 L over 1-2h, then D5 ½ NS at 125 cc/h.

  3. Special Medications:Gastrointestinal Decontamination:

-Gastric lavage with normal saline until clear fluid if indicatedfor recent oral ingestion.-Activated charcoal 50-100 gm, followed by magnesium citrate6% solution 150-300 mL PO.

Bronchodilators: -Epinephrine (1:1000) 0.3-0.5 mL SQ or IM q10min or 1-4mcg/min IV OR in severe life-threatening reactions, give 0.5mg (5.0 mL of 1: 10,000 solution) IV q5-10min prn. Epinephrine, 0.3 mg of 1:1000 solution, may be injected SQ at site ofallergen injection OR -Albuterol (Ventolin) 0.5%, 0.5 mL in 2.5 mL NS q30min bynebulizer prn OR -Aerosolized 2% racemic epinephrine, 0.5-0.75 mL in 2-3 mLsaline nebulized q1-6h.

Corticosteroids: -Methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol) 250 mg IV x 1, then 125 mgIV q6h OR -Hydrocortisone sodium succinate 200 mg IV x 1, then 100 mgq6h, followed by oral prednisone 60 mg PO qd, tapered over5 days.

Antihistamines: -Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 25-50 mg PO/IV q4-6h OR -Hydroxyzine (Vistaril) 25-50 mg IM or PO q2-4h.-Cetrizine (Zyrtec) 5-10 mg PO qd.-Cimetadine (Tagamet) 300 mg PO/IV q6-8h.

Pressors and Other Agents:-Norepinephrine (Levophed) 8-12 mcg/min IV, titrate to systolic100 mm Hg (8 mg in 500 mL D5W) OR -Dopamine (Intropin) 5-20 mcg/kg/min IV.

  1. Extras: Portable CXR, ECG, allergy consult.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7&12.

Pleural Effusion

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Pleural effusion

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q shift. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <90/60;P>120, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC

  5. Activity:

6. Diet: Regular.

  1. IV Fluids: D5W at TKO

  2. Extras: CXR PA and LAT, repeat after thoracentesis; left andright lateral decubitus x-rays, ECG, ultrasound, PPD; pulmonary consult.

9. Labs: CBC, SMA 7&12, protein, albumin, amylase, ANA, ESR,INR/PTT, UA. Cryptococcal antigen, histoplasma antigen, fungalculture.

Thoracentesis: Tube 1: LDH, protein, amylase, triglyceride, glucose (10 mL). Tube 2: Gram stain, C&S, AFB, fungal C&S (20-60 mL,heparinized).Tube 3: Cell count and differential (5-10 mL, EDTA).Syringe: pH (2 mL collected anaerobiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y, heparinized on ice).Bag or Bottle: Cytology.

Hematologic Disorders

Anticoagulant Overdose

Unfractionated Heparin Overdose:

  1. Discontinue heparin infusion.

  2. Protamine sulfate, 1 mg IV for every 100 units of heparininfused in preceding hour, dilute in 25 mL fluid, and give IVover 10 min (max 50 mg in 10 min period).

Low-Molecular-Weight Heparin (Enoxaparin) Overdose:-Protamine sulfate 1 mg IV for each 1 mg of enoxaparin given.Repeat protamine 0.5 mg IV for each 1 mg of enoxaparin, ifbleeding continues after 2-4 hours. Measure factor Xa.

Warfarin (Coumadin) Overdose:-Gastric lavage with normal saline until clear fluid and activatedcharcoal if recent oral ingestion. Discontinue coumadin andheparin, and monitor hematocrit q2h.Partial Reversal: -Vitamin K (Phytonadione), 0.5-1.0 mg IV/SQ. Check INR in 24hours, and repeat vitamin K dose if INR remains elevated.Minor Bleeds: -Vitamin K (Phytonadione), 5-10 mg IV/SQ q12h, titrated todesired INR. Serious Bleeds: -Vitamin K (Phytonadione), 10-20 mg in 50-100 mL fluid IVover 30-60 min (check INR q6h until corrected) AND -Fresh frozen plasma 2-4 units x 1.-Type and cross match for 2 units of PRBC, and transfusewide open.-Cryoprecipitate 10 U x 1 if fibrinogen is less than 100mg/dL.

Labs: CBC, platelets, PTT, INR.

Deep Venous Thrombosis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Deep vein thrombosis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q shift. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP systolic >160, <90diastolic, >90, <60; P >120, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC.

  5. Activity: Bed rest with legs elevated; bedside commode.

  1. Nursing: Guaiac stools, warm packs to leg prn; measure calfand thigh circumference qd; no intramuscular injections.

  2. Diet: Regular

  1. IV Fluids: D5W at TKO

  2. Special Medications:Anticoagulation:

-Heparin (unfractionated) 80 U/kg IVP, then 18 U/kg/hr IVinfusion. Check PTT 6 hours after initial bolus; adjust q6huntil PTT 1.5-2.0 times control (50-80 sec). Overlap heparinand warfarin (Coumadin) for at least 4 days and discontinueheparin when INR has been 2.0-3.0 for two consecutivedays OR

-Enoxaparin (Lovenox) outpatient: 1 mg/kg SQ q12h for DVTwithout pulmonary embolism. Overlap enoxaparin andwarfarin for 4-5 days until INR is 2-3.

-Enoxaparin (Lovenox) inpatient: 1 mg/kg SQ q12h or 1.5mg/kg SQ q24 h for DVT with or without pulmonary embolism. Overlap enoxaparin and warfarin (Coumadin) for atleast 4 days and discontinue heparin when INR has been2.0-3.0 for two consecutive days.

-Warfarin (Coumadin) 5-10 mg PO qd x 2-3 d; maintain INR2.0-3.0. Coumadin is initiated on the first or second day onlyif the PTT is 1.5-2.0 times control [tab 1, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6,7.5, 10 mg].

10. Symptomatic Medications:-Propoxyphene/acetaminophen (Darvocet N100) 1-2 tab POq3-4h prn pain OR -Hydrocodone/acetaminophen (Vicodin), 1-2 tab q4-6h PO prnpain.-Docusate sodium (Colace) 100 mg PO qhs.-Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV/PO q12h OR -Lansoprazole (Prevacid) 30 mg qd.-Zolpidem (Ambien) 5-10 mg qhs prn insomnia.

  1. Extras: CXR PA and LAT, ECG; Doppler scan of legs. V/Qscan, chest CT scan.

  2. Labs: CBC, INR/PTT, SMA 7. Protein C, protein S,antithrombin III, anticardiolipin antibody. UA with dipstick forblood. PTT 6h after bolus and q4-6h until PTT 1.5-2.0 x controlthen qd. INR at initiation of warfarin and qd.

Pulmonary Embolism

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Pulmonary embolism

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q1-4h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <90/60; P>120, <50; R >30, <10; T >38.5EC; O2 sat < 90%

  1. Activity: Bedrest with bedside commode

  2. Nursing: Pulse oximeter, guaiac stools, O2 at 2 L by NC.Antiembolism stockings. No intramuscular injections. Foley toclosed drainage.

  3. Diet: Regular

  1. IV Fluids: D5W at TKO.

  2. Special Medications:Anticoagulation:

-Heparin IV bolus 5000-10,000 Units (100 U/kg) IVP, then1000-1500 U/h IV infusion (20 U/kg/h) [25,000 U in 500 mLD5W (50 U/mL)]. Check PTT 6 hours after initial bolus;adjust q6h until PTT 1.5-2 times control (60-80 sec). Overlap heparin and Coumadin for at least 4 days and discontinue heparin when INR has been 2.0-3.0 for two consecutive days.

-Enoxaparin (Lovenox) 1 mg/kg SQ q12h for 5 days for uncomplicated pulmonary embolism. Overlap warfarin as outlined above.

-Warfarin (Coumadin) 5-10 mg PO qd for 2-3 d, then 2-5 mgPO qd. Maintain INR of 2.0-3.0. Coumadin is initiated onsecond day if the PTT is 1.5-2.0 times control. Check INR atinitiation of warfarin and qd [tab 1, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.5, 10mg].

Thrombolytics (indicated for hemodynamic compromise):Baseline Labs: CBC, INR/PTT, fibrinogen q6h.Alteplase (recombinant tissue plasminogen activator,

Activase): 100 mg IV infusion over 2 hours, followed byheparin infusion at 15 U/kg/h to maintain PTT 1.5-2.5 xcontrol OR

Streptokinase (Streptase): Pretreat with methylprednisolone250 mg IV push and diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 50 mg IVpush. Then give streptokinase, 250,000 units IV over 30min, then 100,000 units/h for 24-72 hours. Initiate heparininfusion at 10 U/kg/hour; maintain PTT 1.5-2.5 x control.

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Meperidine (Demerol) 25-100 mg IV prn pain. -Docusate sodium (Colace) 100 mg PO qhs. -Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV/PO q12h OR -Lansoprazole (Prevacid) 30 mg qd.

  1. Extras: CXR PA and LAT, ECG, VQ scan; chest CT scan, pulmonary angiography; Doppler scan of lower extremities, impedance cardiography.

  2. Labs: CBC, INR/PTT, SMA7, ABG, cardiac enzymes. ProteinC, protein S, antithrombin III, anticardiolipin antibody. UA . PTT 6hours after bolus and q4-6h. INR now and qd.

Sickle Cell Crisis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Sickle Cell Crisis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q shift.

5. Activity: Bedrest with bathroom privileges.

6. Nursing

  1. Diet: Regular diet, push oral fluids.

  2. IV Fluids: D5 ½ NS at 100-125 mL/h.

9. Special Medications:

-Oxygen 2 L/min by NC or 30-100% by mask. -Meperidine (Demerol) 50-150 mg IM/IV q4-6h prn pain. -Hydroxyzine (Vistaril) 25-100 mg IM/IV/PO q3-4h prn pain. -Morphine sulfate 10 mg IV/IM/SC q2-4h prn pain OR -Ketorolac (Toradol) 30-60 mg IV/IM, then 15-30 mg IV/IM q6h

prn pain (maximum of 3 days).-Acetaminophen/codeine (Tylenol 3) 1-2 tabs PO q4-6h prn.-Folic acid 1 mg PO qd.-Penicillin V (prophylaxis), 250 mg PO qid [tabs 125,250,500

mg].-Ondansetron (Zofran) 4 mg PO/IV q4-6h prn nausea or vomiting.

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Zolpidem (Ambien) 5-10 mg qhs prn insomnia. -Docusate sodium (Colace) 100-200 mg PO qhs.

Vaccination:

-Pneumovax before discharge 0.5 cc IM x 1 dose. -Influenza vaccine (Fluogen) 0.5 cc IM once a year in the Fall.

  1. Extras: CXR.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7, blood C&S, reticulocyte count, blood typeand screen, parvovirus titers. UA.

Infectious Diseases

Meningitis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Meningitis.

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q1h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP systolic >160/90, <90/60;P >120, <50; R>25, <10; T >39EC or less than 36EC

  5. Activity: Bed rest with bedside commode.

6. Nursing: Respiratory isolation, inputs and outputs, lumbarpuncture tray at bedside.

  1. Diet: NPO

  2. IV Fluids: D5 1/2 NS at 125 cc/h with KCL 20 mEq/L.

  3. Special Medications:

Empiric Therapy 15-50 years old:-Vancomycin 1 gm IV q12h AND EITHER -Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 2 gm IV q12h (max 4 gm/d) OR

Cefotaxime (Claforan) 2 gm IV q4h.

Empiric Therapy >50 years old, Alcoholic, Corticosteroids or

Hematologic Malignancy or other Debilitating Condition:-Ampicillin 2 gm IV q4h AND EITHER -Cefotaxime (Claforan) 2 gm IV q6h OR

Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 2 gm IV q12h.-Use Vancomycin 1 gm IV q12h in place of ampicillin if drug-resistant pneumococcus is suspected.

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Dexamethasone (Decadron) 0.4 mg/kg IV q12h x 2 days tocommence with first dose of antibiotic. -Heparin 5000 U SC q12h or pneumatic compression stock

ings.-Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV/PO q12h.-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 650 mg PO/PR q4-6h prn temp

>39°C. -Docusate sodium 100-200 mg PO qhs.

  1. Extras: CXR, ECG, PPD, CT scan.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7&12. Blood C&S x 2. UA with micro, urine C&S. Antibiotic levels peak and trough after 3rd dose, VDRL.

Lumbar Puncture: CSF Tube 1: Gram stain, C&S for bacteria (1-4 mL). CSF Tube 2: Glucose, protein (1-2 mL). CSF Tube 3: Cell count and differential (1-2 mL). CSF Tube 4: Latex agglutination or counterimmunoelectro

phoresis antigen tests for S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae

(type B), N. meningitides, E. coli, group B strep, VDRL,cryptococcal antigen, toxoplasma titers. India ink, fungalcultures, AFB (8-10 mL).

Infective Endocarditis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Infective endocarditis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q4h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP systolic >160/90, <90/60;P >120, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC

  5. Activity: Up ad lib, bathroom privileges.

  1. Diet: Regular

  2. IV Fluids: Heparin lock with flush q shift.

8. Special Medications: Subacute Bacterial Endocarditis Empiric Therapy:

-Penicillin G 3-5 million U IV q4h or ampicillin 2 gm IV q4h

AND

Gentamicin 1-1.5/mg/kg IV q8h.

Acute Bacterial Endocarditis Empiric Therapy-Gentamicin 2 mg/kg IV; then 1-1.5 mg/kg IV q8h AND Nafcillin or oxacillin 2 gm IV q4h OR Vancomycin 1 gm IV q12h (1 gm in 250 mL of D5W over 1h).

Streptococci viridans/bovis:-Penicillin G 3-5 million U IV q4h for 4 weeks OR Vancomycin 1 gm IV q12h for 4 weeks AND Gentamicin 1 mg/kg q8h for first 2 weeks.

Enterococcus: -Gentamicin 1 mg/kg IV q8h for 4-6 weeks AND Ampicillin 2 gm IV q4h for 4-6 weeks OR Vancomycin 1 gm IV q12h for 4-6 weeks.

Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin sensitive, native valve):-Nafcillin or Oxacillin 2 gm IV q4h for 4-6 weeks OR Vancomycin 1 gm IV q12h for 4-6 weeks AND Gentamicin 1 mg/kg IV q8h for first 3-5 days.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (native valve):-Vancomycin 1 gm IV q12h (1 gm in 250 mL D5W over 1h) for4-6 weeks AND Gentamicin 1 mg/kg IV q8h for 3-5 days.

Methicillin-resistant Staph aureus or epidermidis (prostheticvalve):

-Vancomycin 1 gm IV q12h for 6 weeks AND Rifampin 600 mg PO q8h for 6 weeks AND Gentamicin 1 mg/kg IV q8h for 2 weeks.

Culture Negative Endocarditis:-Penicillin G 3-5 million U IV q4h for 4-6 weeks OR Ampicillin 2 gm IV q4h for 4-6 weeks AND Gentamicin 1.5 mg/kg q8h for 2 weeks (or nafcillin, 2 gm IVq4h, and gentamicin if Staph aureus suspected in drugabuser or prosthetic valve).

Fungal Endocarditis:-Amphotericin B 0.5 mg/kg/d IV plus flucytosine (5-FC) 150mg/kg/d PO.

9. Symptomatic Medications:-Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV/PO q12h.-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 325-650 mg PO q4-6h prn temp>39N C. -Docusate sodium 100-200 mg PO qhs.

  1. Extras: CXR PA and LAT, echocardiogram, ECG.

  2. Labs: CBC with differential, SMA 7&12. Blood C&S x 3-4 over 24h, serum cidal titers, minimum inhibitory concentration, minimum bactericidal concentration. Repeat C&S in 48h, then once aweek. Antibiotic levels peak and trough at 3rd dose. UA, urineC&S.

Pneumonia

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Pneumonia

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q4-8h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <90/60; P>120, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC or O2 saturation <90%.

  1. Activity: Up ad lib, bathroom privileges.

  2. Nursing: Pulse oximeter, inputs and outputs, nasotrachealsuctioning prn, incentive spirometry.

  3. Diet: Regular.

  4. IV Fluids: IV D5 ½ NS at 125 cc/hr.

9. Special Medications:-Oxygen by NC at 2-4 L/min, or 24-50% by Ventimask, or100% by non-rebreather (reservoir) to maintain O2 saturation >90%.

Moderately Ill Patients Without Underlying Lung Disease

From the Community:-Cefuroxime (Zinacef) 0.75-1.5 gm IV q8h OR Ampicillin/sulbactam (Unasyn) 1.5 gm IV q6h AND EITHER -Erythromycin 500 mg IV/PO q6h OR Clarithromycin (Biaxin) 500 mg PO bid OR Azithromycin (Zithromax) 500 mg PO x 1, then 250 mg PO qdx 4 OR Doxycycline (Vibramycin) 100 mg IV/PO q12h.

Moderately Ill Patients With Recent Hospitalization or Debilitated Nursing Home Patient:

-Ceftazidime (Fortaz) 1-2 gm IV q8h OR Cefepime (Maxipime) 1-2 gm IV q12h AND EITHER Gentamicin 1.5-2 mg/kg IV, then 1.0-1.5 mg/kg IV q8h or 7

mg/kg in 50 mL of D5W over 60 min IV q24h OR -Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 400 mg IV q12h or 500 mg PO q12h.

CritiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y Ill Patients:

-Initial treatment should consist of a macrolide with 2

antipseudomonal agents for synergistic activity: -Erythromycin 0.5-1.0 gm IV q6h AND EITHER -Cefepime (Maxipime) 20 mg IV q12h OR

Piperacillin/tazobactam (Zosyn) 3.75-4.50 gm IV q6h OR Ticarcillin/clavulanate (Timentin) 3.1 gm IV q6h OR Imipenem/cilastatin (Primaxin) 0.5-1.0 gm IV q6h AND EI

THER -Levofloxacin (Levaquin) 500 mg IV q24h OR Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 400 mg IV q12h OR

Tobramycin 2.0 mg/kg IV, then 1.5 mg/kg IV q8h or 7 mg/kg IVq24h.

Aspiration Pneumonia (community acquired):

-Clindamycin (Cleocin) 600-900 mg IV q8h (with gentamicin or3rd gen cephalosporin) OR -Ampicillin/sulbactam (Unasyn) 1.5-3 gm IV q6h (with gentamicin or 3rd gen cephalosporin)

Aspiration Pneumonia (nosocomial):

-Tobramycin 2 mg/kg IV then 1.5 mg/kg IV q8h or 7 mg/kg in50 mL of D5W over 60 min IV q24h OR Ceftazidime (Fortaz) 1-2 gm IV q8h AND EITHER -Clindamycin (Cleocin) 600-900 mg IV q8h OR Ampicillin/sulbactam or ticarcillin/clavulanate, orpiperacillin/tazobactam or imipenem/cilastatin (see above)

OR

Metronidazole (Flagyl) 500 mg IV q8h.

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 650 mg 2 tab PO q4-6h prn temp

>38°C or pain.-Docusate sodium (Colace) 100 mg PO qhs.-Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV/PO q12h.-Heparin 5000 U SQ q12h or pneumatic compression stockings.

  1. Extras: CXR PA and LAT, ECG, PPD.

  2. Labs: CBC with differential, SMA 7&12, ABG. Blood C&S x 2. Sputum Gram stain, C&S. Methenamine silver sputum stain(PCP); AFB smear/culture. Aminoglycoside levels peak andtrough 3rd dose. UA, urine culture.

Specific Therapy for Pneumonia

Pneumococcus: -Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 2 gm IV q12h OR -Cefotaxime (Claforan) 2 gm IV q6h OR -Erythromycin 500 mg IV q6h OR -Levofloxacin (Levaquin) 500 mg IV q24h OR -Vancomycin 1 gm IV q12h if drug resistance.

Staphylococcus aureus:-Nafcillin 2 gm IV q4h OR -Oxacillin 2 gm IV q4h.

Klebsiella pneumoniae:

-Gentamicin 1.5-2 mg/kg IV, then 1.0-1.5 mg/kg IV q8h or 7

mg/kg in 50 mL of D5W over 60 min IV q24h OR Ceftizoxime (Cefizox) 1-2 gm IV q8h OR Cefotaxime (Claforan) 1-2 gm IV q6h.

Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA):

-Vancomycin 1 gm IV q12h.

Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus:

-Linezolid (Zyvox) 600 mg IV/PO q12h; active against MRSAas well OR -Quinupristin/dalfopristin (Synercid) 7.5 mg/kg IV q8h (does notcover E faecalis).

Haemophilus influenzae:-Ampicillin 1-2 gm IV q6h (beta-lactamase negative) OR -Ampicillin/sulbactam (Unasyn) 1.5-3.0 gm IV q6h OR -Cefuroxime (Zinacef) 1.5 gm IV q8h (beta-lactamase pos) OR -Ceftizoxime (Cefizox) 1-2 gm IV q8h OR -Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 400 mg IV q12h OR -Ofloxacin (Floxin) 400 mg IV q12h.-Levofloxacin (Levaquin) 500 mg IV q24h.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa:

-Tobramycin 1.5-2.0 mg/kg IV, then 1.5-2.0 mg/kg IV q8h or 7

mg/kg in 50 mL of D5W over 60 min IV q24h AND EITHER -Piperacillin, ticarcillin, mezlocillin or azlocillin 3 gm IV q4h OR -Cefepime (Maxipime) 2 gm IV q12h.

Enterobacter Aerogenes or Cloacae:

-Gentamicin 2.0 mg/kg IV, then 1.5 mg/kg IV q8h AND EITHER Meropenem (Merrem) 1 gm IV q8h OR Imipenem/cilastatin (Primaxin) 0.5-1.0 gm IV q6h.

Serratia Marcescens: -Ceftizoxime (Cefizox) 1-2 gm IV q8h OR -Aztreonam (Azactam) 1-2 gm IV q6h OR -Imipenem/cilastatin (Primaxin) 0.5-1.0 gm IV q6h OR -Meropenem (Merrem) 1 gm IV q8h.

Mycoplasma pneumoniae:-Clarithromycin (Biaxin) 500 mg PO bid OR -Azithromycin (Zithromax) 500 mg PO x 1, then 250 mg PO qd

for 4 days OR -Erythromycin 500 mg PO or IV q6h OR -Doxycycline (Vibramycin) 100 mg PO/IV q12h OR -Levofloxacin (Levaquin) 500 mg PO/IV q24h.

Legionella pneumoniae:-Erythromycin 1.0 gm IV q6h OR -Levofloxacin (Levaquin) 500 mg PO/IV q24h.-Rifampin 600 mg PO qd may be added to erythromycin orlevofloxacin.

Moraxella catarrhalis:

-Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra) one DS tab

PO bid or 10 mL IV q12h OR -Ampicillin/sulbactam (Unasyn) 1.5-3 gm IV q6h OR -Cefuroxime (Zinacef) 0.75-1.5 gm IV q8h OR -Erythromycin 500 mg IV q6h OR -Levofloxacin (Levaquin) 500 mg PO/IV q24h.

Anaerobic Pneumonia: -Penicillin G 2 MU IV q4h OR -Clindamycin (Cleocin) 900 mg IV q8h OR -Metronidazole (Flagyl) 500 mg IV q8h.

Pneumocystis Carinii Pneumonia andHIV

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: PCP pneumonia

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q2-6h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <90/60; P>120, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC; O2 sat <90%

  1. Activity: Bedrest, bedside commode.

  2. Nursing: Pulse oximeter.

  3. Diet: Regular, encourage fluids.

  4. IV Fluids: D5 ½ NS at 125 cc/h.

9. Special Medications:Pneumocystis Carinii Pneumonia:

-Oxygen at 2-4 L/min by NC or by mask.

-Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra) 15 mg ofTMP/kg/day (20 mL in 250 mL of D5W IVPB q8h) for 21days [inj: 80/400 mg per 5 mL].

-If severe PCP (PaO2 <70 mm Hg): add prednisone 40 mg PObid for 5 days, then 40 mg qd for 5 days, then 20 mg qd for11 days OR Methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol) 30 mg IVq12h for 5 days, then 30 mg IV qd for 5 days, then 15 mg IVqd for 11 days.

-Pentamidine (Pentam) 4 mg/kg IV qd for 21 days, with prednisone as above. Pentamidine is an alternative if inadequateresponse or intolerant to TMP-SMX.

Pneumocystis Carinii Prophylaxis (previous PCP or CD4 <200,

or constitutional symptoms):-Trimethoprim/SMX DS (160/800 mg) PO qd OR -Pentamidine, 300 mg in 6 mL sterile water via Respirgard IInebulizer over 20-30 min q4 weeks OR -Dapsone (DDS) 50 mg PO bid or 100 mg twice a week; contraindicated in G-6-PD deficiency.

Antiretroviral Therapy:

A. Combination therapy with 3 agents (two nucleoside analogsand a protease inhibitor) is recommended as initial therapy.Nucleotide analogs are similar to nucleosides and may beused interchangeably. Combination of atazanavir plustenofovir or lamivudine plus abacavir plus tenofovir shouldbe avoided because of the risk of treatment failure.

B. Nucleoside Analogs

  1. Abacavir (Ziagen) 300 mg PO bid [300 mg, 20 mg/mL].

  2. Didanosine (Videx, ddI) 200 mg bid for patients >60 kg;or 125 mg bid for patients <60 kg. [chewable tabs: 25,50, 100, 150 mg; pwd 100, 167, 250 mg packets].

  3. Emtricitabine (Emtriva) 200 mg PO qd.

  4. Lamivudine (Epivir, 3TC) 150 mg twice daily [150 mg].

  5. Stavudine (Zerit, D4T) 40 mg bid [15 mg, 20 mg, 30 mgand 40 mg capsules].

  6. Zalcitabine (Hivid, ddC) 0.75 mg tid [0.375, 0.75].

  7. Zidovudine (Retrovir, AZT) 200 mg tid (100, 200 mgcaps, 50 mg/5 mL syrup).

C. Protease Inhibitors

  1. Amprenavir (Agenerase) 1200 mg bid [50, 150 mg].

  2. Atazanavir (Reyataz) 400 mg PO qd.

  3. Indinavir (Crixivan) 800 mg tid [200, 400 mg].

  4. Lopinavir/ritonavir (Kaletra) 400 mg/100 mg PO bid.

  5. Nelfinavir (Viracept) 750 mg PO tid [250 mg].

  6. Ritonavir (Norvir) 600 mg bid [100 mg, 80 mg/dL].

  7. Saquinavir (Invirase) 600 mg tid with a meal [cap 200mg].

D. Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors

  1. Delavirdine (U-90) 400 mg tid.

  2. Efavirenz (Sustiva) 600 mg PO qd [50, 100, 200 mg].

  3. Nevirapine (Viramune) 200 mg qd for 2 weeks, then bid[200 mg].

E. Nucleotide Analogs

1. Tenofovir (Viread) 300 mg PO qd with food.Postexposure HIV Prophylaxis

A. The injury should be immediately washed and scrubbedwith soap and water.

B. Zidovudine 200 mg PO tid and lamivudine (3TC) 150 mgPO bid, plus indinavir (Crixivan) 800 mg PO tid for highest risk exposures. Treatment is continued for onemonth.

Zidovudine-Induced Neutropenia/Ganciclovir-InducedLeucopenia

-Recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GCSF, Filgrastim, Neupogen) 1-2 mcg/kg SQ qd until absolute neutrophil count 500-1000; indicated only if endogenous erythropoietin level is low.

10. Symptomatic Medications:-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 325-650 mg PO q4-6h prn headache or fever. -Docusate sodium 100-200 mg PO qhs.

  1. Extras: CXR PA and LAT.

  2. Labs: ABG, CBC, SMA 7&12. Blood C&S x 2. Sputum forGram stain, C&S, AFB. Giemsa immunofluorescence for Pneumocystis. CD4 count, HIV RNA, VDRL, serum cryptococcalantigen, UA.

Diverticulitis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Diverticulitis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: qid. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP systolic >160/90, <90/60;P >120, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC.

  5. Activity: Up ad lib.

  1. Nursing: Inputs and outputs.

  2. Diet: NPO. Advance to clear liquids as tolerated.

  3. IV Fluids: 0.5-2 L NS over 1-2 hr then, D5 ½ NS at 125 cc/hr.NG tube at low intermittent suction (if obstructed).

9. Special Medications:Regimen 1:

-Gentamicin or tobramycin 100-120 mg IV (1.5-2 mg/kg), then80 mg IV q8h (5 mg/kg/d) or 7 mg/kg in 50 mL of D5W over60 min IV q24h AND EITHER

Cefoxitin (Mefoxin) 2 gm IV q6-8h OR Clindamycin (Cleocin) 600-900 mg IV q8h.

Regimen 2:-Metronidazole (Flagyl) 500 mg q8h AND Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 250-500 mg PO bid or 200-300 mg IVq12h.

Outpatient Regimen:

-Metronidazole (Flagyl) 500 mg PO q6h AND EITHER Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 500 mg PO bid OR Trimethoprim/SMX (Bactrim) 1 DS tab PO bid.

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Meperidine (Demerol) 50-100 mg IM or IV q3-4h prn pain.-Zolpidem (Ambien) 5-10 mg qhs PO prn insomnia.

  1. Extras: Acute abdomen series, CXR PA and LAT, ECG, CT scan of abdomen, ultrasound, surgery and GI consults.

  2. Labs: CBC with differential, SMA 7&12, amylase, lipase,blood cultures x 2, drug levels peak and trough 3rd dose. UA,C&S.

Lower Urinary Tract Infection

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: UTI.

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q shift. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP <90/60; >160/90; R>30, <10; P >120, <50; T >38.5EC.

  5. Activity: Up ad lib

  6. Nursing

7. Diet: Regular

  1. IV Fluids:

  2. Special Medications:Lower Urinary Tract Infection (treat for 3-7 days):-Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Septra) 1 double strength tab

(160/800 mg) PO bid.-Norfloxacin (Noroxin) 400 mg PO bid.-Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 250 mg PO bid.-Levofloxacin (Levaquin) 500 mg IV/PO q24h.-Lomefloxacin (Maxaquin) 400 mg PO qd.-Enoxacin (Penetrex) 200-400 mg PO q12h; 1h before or 2h

after meals. -Cefpodoxime (Vantin) 100 mg PO bid. -Cephalexin (Keflex) 500 mg PO q6h. -Cefixime (Suprax) 200 mg PO q12h or 400 mg PO qd. -Cefazolin (Ancef) 1-2 gm IV q8h.

Complicated or Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infection:

-Ceftizoxime (Cefizox) 1 gm IV q8h. -Gentamicin 2 mg/kg, then 1.5/kg q8h or 7 mg/kg in 50 mL of

D5W over 60 min IV q24h. -Ticarcillin/clavulanate (Timentin) 3.1 gm IV q4-6h -Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 500 mg PO bid. -Levofloxacin (Levaquin) 500 mg IV/PO q24h.

Prophylaxis ($3 episodes/yr):

-Trimethoprim/SMX single strength tab PO qhs.

Candida Cystitis

-Fluconazole (Diflucan) 100 mg PO or IV x 1 dose, then 50 mgPO or IV qd for 5 days OR -Amphotericin B continuous bladder irrigation, 50 mg/1000 mLsterile water via 3-way Foley catheter at 1 L/d for 5 days.

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Phenazopyridine (Pyridium) 100 mg PO tid. -Docusate sodium (Colace) 100 mg PO qhs. -Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 325-650 mg PO q4-6h prn temp

>39N C. -Zolpidem (Ambien) 5-10 mg qhs prn insomnia.

  1. Extras: Renal ultrasound.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7. UA with micro, urine Gram stain, C&S.

Pyelonephritis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Pyelonephritis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: tid. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP <90/60; >160/90; R >30,<10; P >120, <50; T >38.5EC.

  5. Activity:

  1. Nursing: Inputs and outputs.

  2. Diet: Regular

  3. IV Fluids: D5 ½ NS at 125 cc/h.

9. Special Medications:

-Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Septra) 160/800 mg (10 mLin 100 mL D5W IV over 2 hours) q12h or 1 double strengthtab PO bid.

-Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 500 mg PO bid or 400 mg IV q12h. -Norfloxacin (Noroxin) 400 mg PO bid. -Ofloxacin (Floxin) 400 mg PO or IV bid. -Levofloxacin (Levaquin) 500 mg PO/IV q24h. -In more severely ill patients, treatment with an IV third-genera

tion cephalosporin, or ticarcillin/clavulanic acid, orpiperacillin/tazobactam or imipenem is recommended withan aminoglycoside.

-Ceftizoxime (Cefizox) 1 gm IV q8h. -Ceftazidime (Fortaz) 1 gm IV q8h. -Ticarcillin/clavulanate (Timentin) 3.1 gm IV q6h. -Piperacillin/tazobactam (Zosyn) 3.375 gm IV/PB q6h. -Imipenem/cilastatin (Primaxin) 0.5-1.0 gm IV q6-8h. -Gentamicin or tobramycin, 2 mg/kg IV, then 1.5 mg/kg q8h or

7 mg/kg in 50 mL of D5W over 60 min IV q24h.

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Phenazopyridine (Pyridium) 100 mg PO tid. -Meperidine (Demerol) 50-100 mg IM q4-6h prn pain. -Docusate sodium (Colace) 100 mg PO qhs. -Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 325-650 mg PO q4-6h prn temp

>39N C.

-Zolpidem (Ambien) 5-10 mg qhs prn insomnia.

  1. Extras: Renal ultrasound, KUB.

  2. Labs: CBC with differential, SMA 7. UA with micro, urine Gram stain, C&S; blood C&S x 2. Drug levels peak and troughthird dose.

Osteomyelitis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Osteomyelitis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: qid. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP <90/60; T >38.5EC.

  1. Activity: Bed rest with bathroom privileges.

  2. Nursing: Keep involved extremity elevated. Range of motionexercises tid.

  3. Diet: Regular, high fiber.

  4. IV Fluids: Heparin lock with flush q shift.

9. Special Medications:

Adult Empiric Therapy:-Nafcillin or oxacillin 2 gm IV q4h OR -Cefazolin (Ancef) 1-2 gm IV q8h OR -Vancomycin 1 gm IV q12h (1 gm in 250 cc D5W over 1h). -Add 3rd generation cephalosporin if gram negative bacilli on

Gram stain. Treat for 4-6 weeks.

Post-Operative or Post-Trauma:-Vancomycin 1 gm IV q12h AND ceftazidime (Fortaz) 1-2 gm IV q8h.-Imipenem/cilastatin (Primaxin)(single-drug treatment) 0.5

1.0 gm IV q6-8h.-Ticarcillin/clavulanate (Timentin)(single-drug treatment) 3.1

gm IV q4-6h.-Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 500-750 mg PO bid or 400 mg IV q12h

AND

Rifampin 600 mg PO qd.

Osteomyelitis with Decubitus Ulcer:

-Cefoxitin (Mefoxin), 2 gm IV q6-8h. -Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) and metronidazole 500 mg IV q8h. -Imipenem/cilastatin (Primaxin), 0.5-1.0 gm IV q6-8h. -Nafcillin, gentamicin and clindamycin; see dosage above.

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Meperidine (Demerol) 50-100 mg IM q3-4h prn pain. -Docusate (Colace) 100 mg PO qhs. -Heparin 5000 U SQ bid.

  1. Extras: Technetium/gallium bone scans, multiple X-ray views, CT/MRI.

  2. Labs: CBC with differential, SMA 7, blood C&S x 3, MIC, MBC, UA with micro, C&S. Needle biopsy of bone for C&S.Trough antibiotic levels.

Active Pulmonary Tuberculosis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Active Pulmonary Tuberculosis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q shift

  1. Activity: Up ad lib in room.

  2. Nursing: Respiratory isolation.

  3. Diet: Regular

8. Special Medications:

-Isoniazid 300 mg PO qd (5 mg/kg/d, max 300 mg/d) AND Rifampin 600 mg PO qd (10 mg/kg/d, 600 mg/d max) AND Pyrazinamide 500 mg PO bid-tid (15-30 mg/kg/d, max 2.5 gm)

AND

Ethambutol 400 mg PO bid-tid (15-25 mg/kg/d, 2.5 gm/d max).

-Empiric treatment consists of a 4-drug combination ofisoniazid (INH), rifampin, pyrazinamide (PZA), and eitherethambutol or streptomycin. A modified regimen is recommended for patients known to have INH-resistant TB. Treatfor 8 weeks with the four-drug regimen, followed by 18weeks of INH and rifampin.

-Pyridoxine 50 mg PO qd with INH.

Prophylaxis

-Isoniazid 300 mg PO qd (5 mg/kg/d) x 6-9 months.

  1. Extras: CXR PA, LAT, ECG.

  2. Labs: CBC with differential, SMA7 and 12, LFTs, HIV serology. First AM sputum for AFB x 3 samples.

Cellulitis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Cellulitis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: tid. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP <90/60; T >38.5EC

  5. Activity: Up ad lib.

  1. Nursing: Keep affected extremity elevated; warm compresses prn.

  2. Diet: Regular, encourage fluids.

  3. IV Fluids: Heparin lock with flush q shift.

9. Special Medications:

Empiric Therapy Cellulitis-Nafcillin or oxacillin 1-2 gm IV q4-6h OR -Cefazolin (Ancef) 1-2 gm IV q8h OR -Vancomycin 1 gm q12h (1 gm in 250 cc D5W over 1h) OR -Erythromycin 500 IV/PO q6h OR -Dicloxacillin 500 mg PO qid; may add penicillin VK, 500 mg

PO qid, to increase coverage for streptococcus OR -Cephalexin (Keflex) 500 mg PO qid.

Immunosuppressed, Diabetic Patients, or Ulcerated Lesions:

-Nafcillin or cefazolin and gentamicin or aztreonam. Add

clindamycin or metronidazole if septic.-Cefazolin (Ancef) 1-2 gm IV q8h.-Cefoxitin (Mefoxin) 1-2 gm IV q6-8h.-Gentamicin 2 mg/kg, then 1.5 mg/kg IV q8h or 7 mg/kg in 50

mL of D5W over 60 min IV q24h OR aztreonam (Azactam) 1-2 gm IV q6h PLUS -Metronidazole (Flagyl) 500 mg IV q8h or clindamycin 900 mg

IV q8h.

-Ticarcillin/clavulanate (Timentin) (single-drug treatment) 3.1 gm IV q4-6h.

-Ampicillin/Sulbactam (Unasyn) (single-drug therapy) 1.5-3.0 gm IV q6h.

-Imipenem/cilastatin (Primaxin) (single-drug therapy) 0.5-1 mg IV q6-8h.

10. Symptomatic Medications:-Acetaminophen/codeine (Tylenol #3) 1-2 PO q4-6h prn pain.-Docusate (Colace) 100 mg PO qhs.-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 325-650 mg PO q4-6h prn temp>39N C. -Zolpidem (Ambien) 5-10 mg qhs prn insomnia.

  1. Extras: Technetium/Gallium scans.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7, blood C&S x 2. Leading edge aspirate forGram stain, C&S; UA, antibiotic levels.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q8h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <90/60; P >120,<50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC

  5. Activity: Up ad lib.

  1. Nursing: Inputs and outputs.

  2. Diet: Regular

  3. IV Fluids: D5 ½ NS at 100-125 cc/hr.

9. Special Medications:-Cefotetan (Cefotan), 2 g IV q12h, or cefoxitin (Mefoxin, 2 g IVq6h) plus doxycycline (100 mg IV or PO q12h) OR -Clindamycin (Cleocin), 900 mg IV q8h, plus gentamicin (1-1.5mg/kg IV q8h)-Ampicillin-sulbactam (Unasyn), 3 g IV Q6h plus doxycycline(100 mg IV or PO Q12h)-Parenteral administration of antibiotics should be continued for 24 hours after clinical response, followed by doxycycline(100 mg PO BID) or clindamycin (Cleocin, 450 mg PO QID)for a total of 14 days.-Levofloxacin (Levaquin), 500 mg IV q24h, plus metronidazole(Flagyl, 500 mg IV q8h). With this regimen, azithromycin(Zithromax, 1 g PO once) should be given as soon as thepatient is tolerating oral intake.

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 1-2 tabs PO q4-6h prn pain or tem

perature >38.5EC.

-Meperidine (Demerol) 25-100 mg IM q4-6h prn pain.

-Zolpidem (Ambien) 10 mg PO qhs prn insomnia.

11. Labs: beta-HCG pregnancy test, CBC, SMA 7&12, ESR. GCculture, chlamydia direct fluorescent antibody stain. UA withmicro, C&S, VDRL, HIV, blood cultures x 2. Pelvic ultrasound.

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Gastroesophageal reflux disease.

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q4h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <90/60; P >120, <50; T >38.5EC.

  5. Activity: Up ad lib. Elevate the head of the bed by 6 to 8 inches.

  6. Nursing: Guaiac stools.

  1. Diet: Low-fat diet; no cola, citrus juices, or tomato products;avoid the supine position after meals; no eating within 3 hoursof bedtime.

  2. IV Fluids: D5 ½ NS with 20 mEq KCL at TKO.

  3. Special Medications:-Pantoprazole (Protonix) 40 mg PO/IV q24h OR -Nizatidine (Axid) 300 mg PO qhs OR -Omeprazole (Prilosec) 20 mg PO bid (30 minutes prior to

meals) OR -Lansoprazole (Prevacid) 15-30 mg PO qd [15, 30 mg caps]

OR

-Esomeprazole (Nexium) 20 or 40 mg PO qd OR

-Rabeprazole (Aciphex) 20 mg delayed-release tablet PO qd

OR

-Ranitidine (Zantac) 50 mg IV bolus, then continuous infusionat 12.5 mg/h (300 mg in 250 mL D5W at 11 mL/h over 24h)or 50 mg IV q8h OR

-Cimetidine (Tagamet) 300 mg IV bolus, then continuous infusion at 50 mg/h (1200 mg in 250 mL D5W over 24h) or 300mg IV q6-8h OR

-Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV q12h.

10. Symptomatic Medications:-Mylanta Plus or Maalox Plus 30 mg PO q2h prn.-Trimethobenzamide (Tigan) 100-250 mg PO or 100-200 mgIM/PR q6h prn nausea OR -Prochlorperazine (Compazine) 5-10 mg IM/IV/PO q4-6h or 25mg PR q4-6h prn nausea.

  1. Extras: Upright abdomen, KUB, CXR, ECG, endoscopy. GIconsult, surgery consult.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7&12, amylase, lipase, LDH. UA.

Peptic Ulcer Disease

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Peptic ulcer disease.

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q4h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <90/60; P >120, <50; T >38.5EC.

  5. Activity: Up ad lib

  1. Nursing: Guaiac stools.

  2. Diet: NPO 48h, then regular diet, no caffeine.

  3. IV Fluids: D5 ½ NS with 20 mEq KCL at 125 cc/h. NG tube atlow intermittent suction (if obstructed).

9. Special Medications:-Ranitidine (Zantac) 50 mg IV bolus, then continuous infusionat 12.5 mg/h (300 mg in 250 mL D5W at 11 mL/h over 24h)or 50 mg IV q8h OR -Cimetidine (Tagamet) 300 mg IV bolus, then continuous infusion at 50 mg/h (1200 mg in 250 mL D5W over 24h) or 300mg IV q6-8h OR -Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV q12h OR -Pantoprazole (Protonix) 40 mg PO/IV q24h OR -Nizatidine (Axid) 300 mg PO qhs OR -Omeprazole (Prilosec) 20 mg PO bid (30 minutes prior tomeals) OR -Lansoprazole (Prevacid) 15-30 mg PO qd prior to breakfast[15, 30 mg caps].

Eradication of Helicobacter pylori

A. Bismuth, Metronidazole, Tetracycline, Ranitidine

  1. 14 day therapy.

  2. Bismuth (Pepto Bismol) 2 tablets PO qid.

  3. Metronidazole (Flagyl) 250 mg PO qid (tid if cannot tolerate the qid dosing).

  4. Tetracycline 500 mg PO qid.

  5. Ranitidine (Zantac) 150 mg PO bid.

  6. Efficacy is greater than 90%.

B. Amoxicillin, Omeprazole, Clarithromycin (AOC)

  1. 10 days of therapy.

  2. Amoxicillin 1 gm PO bid.

  3. Omeprazole (Prilosec) 20 mg PO bid.

  4. Clarithromycin (Biaxin) 500 mg PO bid.

C. Metronidazole, Omeprazole, Clarithromycin (MOC)

  1. 10 days of therapy

  2. Metronidazole 500 mg PO bid.

  3. Omeprazole (Prilosec) 20 mg PO bid.

  4. Clarithromycin (Biaxin) 500 mg PO bid.

  5. Efficacy is >80%

  6. Expensive, usually well tolerated.

D. Omeprazole, Clarithromycin (OC)

  1. 14 days of therapy.

  2. Omeprazole (Prilosec) 40 mg PO qd for 14 days, then 20mg qd for an additional 14 days of therapy.

  3. Clarithromycin (Biaxin) 500 mg PO tid.

E. Ranitidine-Bismuth-Citrate, Clarithromycin (RBC-C)

  1. 28 days of therapy.

  2. Ranitidine-bismuth-citrate (Tritec) 400 mg PO bid for 28days.

  3. Clarithromycin (Biaxin) 500 mg PO tid for 14 days.

  4. Efficacy is 70-80%; expensive

10. Symptomatic Medications:-Mylanta Plus or Maalox Plus 30 mg PO q2h prn.-Trimethobenzamide (Tigan) 100-250 mg PO or 100-200 mgIM/PR q6h prn nausea OR -Prochlorperazine (Compazine) 5-10 mg IM/IV/PO q4-6h or 25mg PR q4-6h prn nausea.

  1. Extras: Upright abdomen, KUB, CXR, ECG, endoscopy. GIconsult, surgery consult.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7&12, amylase, lipase, LDH. UA,Helicobacter pylori serology. Fasting serum gastrin qAM for 3days. Urea breath test for H pylori.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Upper/lower GI bleed

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q30min. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <90/60; P>120, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC; urine output <15 mL/hr for 4h.

  5. Activity: Bed rest

6. Nursing: Place nasogastric tube, then lavage with 2 L of roomtemperature normal saline, then connect to low intermittentsuction. Repeat lavage q1h. Record volume and character oflavage. Foley to closed drainage; inputs and outputs.

  1. Diet: NPO

  2. IV Fluids: Two 16 gauge IV lines. 1-2 L NS wide open; transfuse 2-6 units PRBC to run as fast as possible, then repeatCBC.

  3. Special Medications:

-Oxygen 2 L by NC.

-Pantoprazole (Protonix) 80 mg IV over 15min, then 8 mg/hr IVinfusion OR 80 mg IV q12h.

-Ranitidine (Zantac) 50 mg IV bolus, then continuous infusionat 12.5 mg/h [300 mg in 250 mL D5W over 24h (11 cc/h)],or 50 mg IV q6-8h OR

-Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV q12h.-Vitamin K (Phytonadione) 10 mg IV/SQ qd for 3 days (if INR iselevated).

Esophageal Variceal Bleeds:-Somatostatin (Octreotide) 50 mcg IV bolus, followed by 50mcg/h IV infusion (1200 mcg in 250 mL of D5W at 11mL/h).Vasopressin/Nitroglycerine Paste Therapy:-Vasopressin (Pitressin) 20 U IV over 20-30 minutes, then 0.2

0.3 U/min [100 U in 250 mL of D5W (0.4 U/mL)] for 30 min,followed by increases of 0.2 U/min until bleeding stops ormax of 0.9 U/min. If bleeding stops, taper over 24-48h AND

-Nitroglycerine paste 1 inch q6h OR nitroglycerin IV at 10-30mcg/min continuous infusion (50 mg in 250 mL of D5W).

  1. Extras: Portable CXR, upright abdomen, ECG. Surgery and GI consults. Upper GI Bleeds: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy with coagulation or sclerotherapy; Linton-Nachlas tube for tamponade ofesophageal varices.Lower GI Bleeds: Sigmoidoscopy/colonoscopy (after a GoLytelypurge 6-8 L over 4-6h), technetium 99m RBC scan, angiographywith embolization.

  2. Labs: Repeat hematocrit q2h; CBC with platelets q12-24h.Repeat INR in 6 hours. SMA 7&12, ALT, AST, alkalinephosphatase, INR/PTT, type and cross for 3-6 U PRBC and 2-4 UFFP.

Cirrhotic Ascites and Edema

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Cirrhotic ascites and edema

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: Vitals q4-6 hours. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90,<90/60; P >120, <50; T >38.5EC; urine output <25 cc/hr for 4h.

  1. Activity: Bed rest with legs elevated.

  2. Nursing: Inputs and outputs, daily weights, measure abdominal girth qd, guaiac all stools.

  3. Diet: 2500 calories, 100 gm protein; 500 mg sodium restriction;fluid restriction to 1-1.5 L/d (if hyponatremia, Na <130).

  4. IV Fluids: Heparin lock with flush q shift.

9. Special Medications:

-Diurese to reduce weight by 0.5-1 kg/d (if edema) or 0.25 kg/d(if no edema).-Spironolactone (Aldactone) 25-50 mg PO qid or 200 mg POqAM, increase by 100 mg/d to max of 400 mg/d.

-Furosemide (Lasix [refractory ascites]) 40-120 mg PO or IVqd-bid. Add KCL 20-40 mEq PO qAM if renal function isnormal OR

-Torsemide (Demadex) 20-40 mg PO/IV qd-bid. -Metolazone (Zaroxolyn) 5-10 mg PO qd (max 20 mg/d). -Captopril (Capoten) 6.75 mg PO q8h; increase to max 50 mg

PO q8h for refractory ascites caused by

hyperaldosteronism. -Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV/PO q12h. -Vitamin K 10 mg SQ qd for 3 days. -Folic acid 1 mg PO qd. -Thiamine 100 mg PO qd. -Multivitamin PO qd. Paracentesis: Remove up to 5 L of ascites if peripheral

edema, tense ascites, or decreased diaphragmatic excursion. If large volume paracentesis without peripheral edemaor with renal insufficiency, give salt-poor albumin, 12.5 gmfor each 2 liters of fluid removed (50 mL of 25% solution);infuse 25 mL before paracentesis and 25 mL 6h after.

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Docusate (Colace) 100 mg PO qhs. -Lactulose 30 mL PO bid-qid prn constipation. -Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 325-650 mg PO q4-6h prn head

ache.

  1. Extras: KUB, CXR, abdominal ultrasound, liver-spleen scan, GI consult.

  2. Labs: Ammonia, CBC, SMA 7&12, LFTs, albumin, amylase,lipase, INR/PTT. Urine creatinine, Na, K. HBsAg, anti-HBs, hepatitis C virus antibody, alpha-1-antitrypsin.

Paracentesis Ascitic Fluid Tube 1: Protein, albumin, specific gravity, glucose, bilirubin,

amylase, lipase, triglyceride, LDH (3-5 mL, red top tube).Tube 2: Cell count and differential (3-5 mL, purple top tube). Tube 3: C&S, Gram stain, AFB, fungal (5-20 mL); inject 20 mLinto bottle of blood culture at bedside. Tube 4: Cytology (>20 mL). Syringe: pH (2 mL).

Viral Hepatitis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Hepatitis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: qid. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP <90/60; T >38.5EC.

  5. Activity:

  1. Nursing: Stool isolation.

  2. Diet: Clear liquid (if nausea), low fat (if diarrhea).

8. Special Medications:

-Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV/PO q12h. -Vitamin K 10 mg SQ qd for 3d. -Multivitamin PO qd.

9. Symptomatic Medications:

-Meperidine (Demerol) 50-100 mg IM q4-6h prn pain.-Trimethobenzamide (Tigan) 250 mg PO q6-8h prn pruritus ornausea q6-8h prn.-Hydroxyzine (Vistaril) 25 mg IM/PO q4-6h prn pruritus or nausea. -Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 25-50 mg PO/IV q4-6h prn pruritus.

  1. Extras: Ultrasound, GI consult.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7&12, GGT, LDH, amylase, lipase,INR/PTT, IgM anti-HAV, IgM anti-HBc, HBsAg, anti-HCV; alpha-1antitrypsin, ANA, ferritin, ceruloplasmin, urine copper.

Cholecystitis and Cholangitis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Bacterial cholangitis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q4h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP systolic >160, <90; diastolic. >90, <60; P >120, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC.

  5. Activity: Bed rest

6. Nursing: Inputs and outputs

  1. Diet: NPO

  2. IV Fluids: 0.5-1 L LR over 1h, then D5 ½ NS with 20 mEqKCL/L at 125 cc/h. NG tube at low constant suction. Foley toclosed drainage.

  3. Special Medications:

-Ticarcillin or piperacillin 3 gm IV q4-6h (single agent).

-Ampicillin 1-2 gm IV q4-6h and gentamicin 100 mg (1.5-2mg/kg), then 80 mg IV q8h (3-5 mg/kg/d) and metronidazole500 mg IV q8h.

-Imipenem/cilastatin (Primaxin) 1.0 gm IV q6h (single agent).

-Ampicillin/sulbactam (Unasyn) 1.5-3.0 gm IV q6h (single agent).

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Meperidine (Demerol) 50-100 mg IV/IM q4-6h prn pain. -Hydroxyzine (Vistaril) 25-50 mg IV/IM q4-6h prn with

meperidine. -Omeprazole (Prilosec) 20 mg PO bid. -Heparin 5000 U SQ q12h. -Enoxaparin (Lovenox) 30 mg SQ q12h.

  1. Extras: CXR, ECG, RUQ ultrasound, HIDA scan, acute abdomen series. GI consult, surgical consult.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7&12, GGT, amylase, lipase, blood C&S x

2. UA, INR/PTT.

Acute Pancreatitis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Acute pancreatitis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q1-4h, Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <90/60; P>120, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC; urine output < 25 cc/hr for more than 4 hours.

  5. Activity: Bed rest with bedside commode.

6. Nursing: Inputs and outputs, fingerstick glucose qid, guaiacstools. Foley to closed drainage.

  1. Diet: NPO

  2. IV Fluids: 1-4 L NS over 1-3h, then D5 ½ NS with 20 mEqKCL/L at 125 cc/hr. NG tube at low constant suction (if obstruction).

  3. Special Medications:

-Ranitidine (Zantac) 6.25 mg/h (150 mg in 250 mL D5W at 11mL/h) IV or 50 mg IV q6-8h OR Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV q12h.

-Antibiotics are indicated for infected pancreatic pseudocysts orfor abscess. Uncomplicated pancreatitis does not requireantibiotics.

-Ticarcillin/clavulanate (Timentin) 3.1 gm IV, orampicillin/sulbactam (Unasyn) 3.0 gm IV q6h or imipenem(Primaxin) 0.5-1.0 gm IV q6h.

-Heparin 5000 U SQ q12h.-Total parenteral nutrition should be provided until the amylaseand lipase are normal and symptoms have resolved.

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Meperidine 50-100 mg IM/IV q3-4h prn pain.

  1. Extras: Upright abdomen, portable CXR, ECG, ultrasound,CT with contrast. Surgery and GI consults.

  2. Labs: CBC, platelets, SMA 7&12, calcium, triglycerides,amylase, lipase, LDH, AST, ALT; blood C&S x 2, hepatitis Bsurface antigen, INR/PTT, type and hold 4-6 U PRBC and 2-4 UFFP. UA.

Acute Gastroenteritis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Acute Gastroenteritis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q6h; Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <80/60; P >120;R>25; T >38.5EC.

  5. Activity: Up ad lib

  1. Nursing: Daily weights, inputs and outputs.

  2. Diet: NPO except ice chips for 24h, then low residual elemental diet; no milk products.

  3. IV Fluids: 1-2 L NS over 1-2 hours; then D5 ½ NS with 40 mEqKCL/L at 125 cc/h.

9. Special Medications: Febrile or gross blood in stool or neutrophils on microscopic exam or prior travel:

-Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 500 mg PO bid OR -Levofloxacin (Levaquin) 500 mg PO qd OR -Trimethoprim/SMX (Bactrim DS) (160/800 mg) one DS tab PO

bid.

  1. Extras: Upright abdomen. GI consult.

  2. Labs: SMA7 and 12, CBC with differential, UA, blood culture x 2. Stool studies: Wright's stain for fecal leukocytes, ova and parasites x 3, clostridium difficile toxin, culture for enteric pathogens, Ecoli 0157:H7 culture.

Specific Treatment of AcuteGastroenteritis

Shigella:

-Trimethoprim/SMX, (Bactrim) one DS tab PO bid for 5 days

OR -Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 500 mg PO bid for 5 days OR -Azithromycin (Zithromax) 500 mg PO x 1, then 250 mg PO qdx 4.

Salmonella (bacteremia):-Ofloxacin (Floxin) 400 mg IV/PO q12h for 14 days OR -Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 400 mg IV q12h or 750 mg PO q12h for

14 days OR -Trimethoprim/SMX (Bactrim) one DS tab PO bid for 14 days

OR

-Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 2 gm IV q12h for 14 days.

Campylobacter jejuni:-Erythromycin 250 mg PO qid for 5-10 days OR -Azithromycin (Zithromax) 500 mg PO x 1, then 250 mg PO qdx 4 OR -Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 500 mg PO bid for 5 days.

Enterotoxic/Enteroinvasive E coli (Travelers Diarrhea):-Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 500 mg PO bid for 5-7 days OR -Trimethoprim/SMX (Bactrim), one DS tab PO bid for 5-7 days.

Antibiotic-Associated and Pseudomembranous Colitis (Clos

tridium difficile):-Metronidazole (Flagyl) 250 mg PO or IV qid for 10-14 days OR -Vancomycin 125 mg PO qid for 10 days (500 PO qid for 10-14 days, if recurrent).

Yersinia Enterocolitica (sepsis):

-Trimethoprim/SMX (Bactrim), one DS tab PO bid for 5-7 days

OR -Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 500 mg PO bid for 5-7 days OR -Ofloxacin (Floxin) 400 mg PO bid OR -Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 1 gm IV q12h.

Entamoeba Histolytica (Amebiasis):

Mild to Moderate Intestinal Disease: -Metronidazole (Flagyl) 750 mg PO tid for 10 days OR -Tinidazole 2 gm per day PO for 3 days Followed By: -Iodoquinol 650 mg PO tid for 20 days OR -Paromomycin 25-30 mg/kg/d PO tid for 7 days.

Severe Intestinal Disease: -Metronidazole (Flagyl)750 mg PO tid for 10 days OR -Tinidazole 600 mg PO bid for 5 days Followed By:-Iodoquinol 650 mg PO tid for 20 days OR -Paromomycin 25-30 mg/kg/d PO tid for 7 days.

Giardia Lamblia: -Quinacrine 100 mg PO tid for 5d OR -Metronidazole 250 mg PO tid for 7 days OR -Nitazoxanide (Alinia) 200 mg PO q12h x 3 days.

Cryptosporidium:-Paromomycin 500 mg PO qid for 7-10 days [250 mg] OR -Nitazoxanide (Alinia) 200 mg PO q12h x 3 days.

Crohn’s Disease

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Crohn’s disease.

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q8h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <90/60; P >120,<50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC

  5. Activity: Up ad lib.

  1. Nursing: Inputs and outputs. NG at low intermittent suction (ifobstruction).

  2. Diet: NPO except for ice chips and medications for 48h, thenlow residue or elemental diet, no milk products.

  3. IV Fluids: 1-2 L NS over 1-3h, then D5 ½ NS with 40 mEqKCL/L at 125 cc/hr.

9. Special Medications:

-Mesalamine (Asacol) 400-800 mg PO tid or mesalamine(Pentasa) 1000 mg (four 250 mg tabs) PO qid OR -Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) 0.5-1 gm PO bid; increase over 10days to 0.5-1 gm PO qid OR

-Olsalazine (Dipentum) 500 mg PO bid.-Infliximab (Remicade) 5 mg/kg IV over 2 hours; may repeatat 2 and 6 weeks

-Prednisone 40-60 mg PO qd OR -Hydrocortisone 50-100 mg IV q6h OR -Methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol) 10-20 mg IV q6h. -Metronidazole (Flagyl) 250-500 mg PO q6h. -Vitamin B12, 100 mcg IM for 5d, then 100-200 mcg IM q month. -Multivitamin PO qAM or 1 ampule IV qAM. -Folic acid 1 mg PO qd.

  1. Extras: Abdominal x-ray series, CXR, colonoscopy. GI consult.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7&12, Mg, ionized calcium, blood C&S x 2;stool Wright's stain, stool culture, C difficile antigen assay, stoolova and parasites x 3.

Ulcerative Colitis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Ulcerative colitis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q4-6h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <90/60; P>120, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC.

  5. Activity: Up ad lib in room.

  1. Nursing: Inputs and outputs.

  2. Diet: NPO except for ice chips for 48h, then low residue orelemental diet, no milk products.

  3. IV Fluids: 1-2 L NS over 1-2h, then D5 ½ NS with 40 mEqKCL/L at 125 cc/hr.

  4. Special Medications:-Mesalamine (Asacol) 400-800 mg PO tid OR -5-aminosalicylate (Mesalamine) 400-800 mg PO tid or 1 gm

PO qid or enema 4 gm/60 mL PR qhs OR -Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) 0.5-1 gm PO bid, increase over 10

days as tolerated to 0.5-1.0 gm PO qid OR -Olsalazine (Dipentum) 500 mg PO bid OR -Hydrocortisone retention enema, 100 mg in 120 mL saline bid.-Methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol) 10-20 mg IV q6h OR -Hydrocortisone 100 mg IV q6h OR -Prednisone 40-60 mg PO qd.-B12, 100 mcg IM for 5d then 100-200 mcg IM q month.-Multivitamin PO qAM or 1 ampule IV qAM.-Folate 1 mg PO qd.

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Loperamide (Imodium) 2-4 mg PO tid-qid prn, max 16 mg/d

OR

-Kaopectate 60-90 mL PO qid prn.

  1. Extras: Upright abdomen. CXR, colonoscopy, GI consult.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7&12, Mg, ionized calcium, liver panel,blood C&S x 2; stool Wright's stain, stool for ova and parasites x3, culture for enteric pathogens; Clostridium difficile antigenassay, UA.

Enteral Nutrition

General Considerations: Daily weights, inputs and outputs,nasoduodenal feeding tube. Head-of-bed at 30E while enteral feeding and 2 hours after completion.

Enteral Bolus Feeding: Give 50-100 mL of enteral solution (Pulmocare, Jevity, Vivonex, Osmolite, Vital HN) q3h. Increaseamount in 50 mL steps to max of 250-300 mL q3-4h; 30 kcal of nonprotein calories/kg/d and 1.5 gm protein/kg/d. Before eachfeeding, measure residual volume, and delay feeding by 1h if>100 mL. Flush tube with 100 cc of water after each bolus.

Continuous enteral infusion: Initial enteral solution (Pulmocare,Jevity, Vivonex, Osmolite) 30 mL/hr. Measure residual volumeq1h for 12h then tid; hold feeding for 1h if >100 mL. Increaserate by 25-50 mL/hr at 24 hr intervals as tolerated until finalrate of 50-100 mL/hr. Three tablespoonfuls of protein powder(Promix) may be added to each 500 cc of solution. Flush tubewith 100 cc water q8h.

Special Medications:-Metoclopramide (Reglan) 10-20 mg IV/NG OR -Erythromycin 125 mg IV or via nasogastric tube q8h.-Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV/PO q12h OR -Ranitidine (Zantac) 150 mg NG bid.

Symptomatic Medications:

-Loperamide (Imodium) 2-4 mg NG/J-tube q6h prn, max 16mg/d OR -Diphenoxylate/atropine (Lomotil) 1-2 tabs or 5-10 mL (2.5mg/5 mL) PO/J-tube q4-6h prn, max 12 tabs/d OR

-Kaopectate 30 cc NG or in J-tube q8h.Extras: CXR, plain abdominal x-ray for tube placement, nutrition consult.

Labs: Daily labs: SMA7, osmolality, CBC, cholesterol, triglyceride. SMA-12

Weekly labs when indicated: Protein, Mg, INR/PTT, 24hurine nitrogen and creatinine. Pre-albumin, retinol-bindingprotein.

Hepatic Encephalopathy

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Hepatic encephalopathy

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q1-4h, neurochecks q4h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP>160/90,<90/60; P >120,<50; R>25,<10; T >38.5EC.

5. Allergies: Avoid sedatives, NSAIDS or hepatotoxic drugs.

6. Activity: Bed rest.

  1. Nursing: Keep head-of-bed at 40 degrees, guaiac stools; turnpatient q2h while awake, chart stools. Seizure precautions, eggcrate mattress, soft restraints prn. Record inputs and outputs.Foley to closed drainage.

  2. Diet: NPO for 8 hours, then low-protein nasogastric enteralfeedings (Hepatic-Aid II) at 30 mL/hr. Increase rate by 25-50mL/hr at 24 hr intervals as tolerated until final rate of 50-100mL/hr as tolerated.

9. IV Fluids: D5W at TKO. 10.Special Medications:

-Sorbitol 70% solution, 30-60 gm PO now.-Lactulose 30-45 mL PO q1h for 3 doses, then 15-45 mL PObid-qid, titrate to produce 3 soft stools/d OR -Lactulose enema 300 mL added to 700 mL of tap water; instill

200-250 mL per rectal tube bid-qid AND -Neomycin 1 gm PO q6h (4-12 g/d) OR -Metronidazole (Flagyl) 250 mg PO q6h.-Ranitidine (Zantac) 50 mg IV q8h or 150 mg PO bid OR -Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV/PO q12h.-Flumazenil (Romazicon) 0.2 mg (2 mL) IV over 30 seconds

q1min until a total dose of 3 mg; if a partial response occurs,continue 0.5 mg doses until a total of 5 mg. Flumazenil mayhelp reverse hepatic encephalopathy, irrespective of benzodiazepine use.

-Multivitamin PO qAM or 1 ampule IV qAM. -Folic acid 1 mg PO/IV qd. -Thiamine 100 mg PO/IV qd. -Vitamin K 10 mg SQ qd for 3 days if elevated INR.

  1. Extras: CXR, ECG; GI and dietetics consults.

  2. Labs: Ammonia, CBC, platelets, SMA 7&12, AST, ALT, GGT,LDH, alkaline phosphatase, protein, albumin, bilirubin, INR/PTT,ABG, blood C&S x 2, hepatitis B surface antibody. UA.

Alcohol Withdrawal

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Alcohol withdrawals/delirium tremens.

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q4-6h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <90/60; P>130, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC; or increase in agitation.

  5. Activity:

  1. Nursing: Seizure precautions. Soft restraints prn.

  2. Diet: Regular, push fluids.

  3. IV Fluids: Heparin lock or D5 ½ NS at 100-125 cc/h.

9. Special Medications:Withdrawal syndrome:

-Chlordiazepoxide (Librium) 50-100 mg PO/IV q6h for 3 days

OR

-Lorazepam (Ativan) 1 mg PO tid-qid.

Delirium tremens:

-Chlordiazepoxide (Librium) 100 mg slow IV push or PO, repeat q4-6h prn agitation or tremor for 24h; max 500 mg/d.Then give 50-100 mg PO q6h prn agitation or tremor OR

-Diazepam (Valium) 5 mg slow IV push, repeat q6h until calm,then 5-10 mg PO q4-6h.

Seizures: -Thiamine 100 mg IV push AND -Dextrose water 50%, 50 mL IV push.-Lorazepam (Ativan) 0.1 mg/kg IV at 2 mg/min; may repeat x 1

if seizures continue.

Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome:

-Thiamine 100 mg IV stat, then 100 mg IV qd.

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Multivitamin 1 amp IV, then 1 tab PO qd. -Folate 1 mg PO qd. -Thiamine 100 mg PO qd. -Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 1-2 PO q4-6h prn headache.

  1. Extras: CXR, ECG. Alcohol rehabilitation and social work consult.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7&12, Mg, amylase, lipase, liver panel,urine drug screen. UA, INR/PTT.

Toxicology

Poisoning and Drug Overdose

Decontamination: -Gastric Lavage: Place patient left side down, placenasogastric tube, and check position by injecting air andauscultating. Lavage with normal saline until clear fluid, thenleave activated charcoal or other antidote. Gastric lavage iscontraindicated for corrosives. -Cathartics:

-Magnesium citrate 6% solution 150-300 mL PO

-Magnesium sulfate 10% solution 150-300 mL PO.

-Activated Charcoal: 50 gm PO (first dose should be givenusing product containing sorbitol). Repeat q2-6h for largeingestions.

-Hemodialysis should be for isopropanol, methanol, ethyleneglycol, severe salicylate intoxication (>100 mg/dL), lithium,or theophylline (if neurotoxicity, seizures, or coma).

Antidotes: Narcotic Overdose:

-Naloxone (Narcan) 0.4 mg IV/ET/IM/SC, may repeat q2min.

Methanol Ingestion:-Ethanol (10% in D5W) 7.5 mL/kg load, then 1.4 mL/kg/hr IVinfusion until methanol level <20 mg/dL. Maintain ethanollevel of 100-150 mg/100 mL.

Ethylene Glycol Ingestion:-Fomepizole (Antizol) 15 mg/kg IV over 30 min, then 10 mg/kgIV q12h x 4 doses, then 15 mg/kg IV q12h until ethyleneglycol level is less than 20 mg/dL AND -Pyridoxine 100 mg IV q6h for 2 days and thiamine 100 mg IVq6h for 2 days.

Carbon Monoxide Intoxication: -Hyperbaric oxygen therapy or 100% oxygen by mask ifhyperbaric oxygen is not available.

Tricyclic Antidepressants Overdose:-Gastric lavage-Magnesium citrate 300 mg PO/NG x1.-Activated charcoal premixed with sorbitol 50 gm NG roundthe-clock until level is less than the toxic range.

Benzodiazepine Overdose:-Flumazenil (Romazicon) 0.2 mg (2 mL) IV over 30 secondsq1min until a total dose of 3 mg; if a partial response occurs,repeat 0.5 mg doses until a total of 5 mg. If sedation persists, repeat the above regimen or start a continuous IVinfusion of 0.1-0.5 mg/h.

Labs: Drug screen (serum, gastric, urine); blood levels, SMA 7,

fingerstick glucose, CBC, LFTs, ECG.

Acetaminophen Overdose

  1. Admit to: medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) intensive care unit.

  2. Diagnosis: Acetaminophen overdose

  1. Condition:

  2. Vital Signs: q1h with neurochecks. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP>160/90, <90/60; P >130, <50 <50; R>25, <10; urine output<20 cc/h for 3 hours.

  1. Activity: Bed rest with bedside commode.

  2. Nursing: Inputs and outputs, aspiration and seizure precautions. Place large bore (Ewald) NG tube, then lavage with 2 Lof NS.

  3. Diet: NPO

  4. IV Fluids:

9. Special Medications:-Activated charcoal 30-100 gm doses, remove via nasogastricsuction prior to acetylcysteine.-Acetylcysteine (Mucomyst, NAC) 5% solution loading dose140 mg/kg via nasogastric tube, then 70 mg/kg via NG tubeq4h x 17 doses OR acetylcysteine 150 mg/kg IV in 200 mLD5W over 15 min, followed by 50 mg/kg in 500 mL D5W,infused over 4h, followed by 100 mg/kg in 1000 mL of D5Wover next 16h. Complete all NAC doses even ifacetaminophen levels fall below toxic range.-Phytonadione (Aquamephyton) 5 mg IV/IM/SQ (if INR increased).-Fresh frozen plasma 2-4 U (if INR is unresponsive toAquamephyton).-Trimethobenzamide (Tigan) 100-200 mg IM/PR q6h prn nausea.

  1. Extras: ECG.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7&12, LFTs, INR/PTT, acetaminophen levelnow and in 4h. UA.

Theophylline Overdose

  1. Admit to: medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) intensive care unit.

  2. Diagnosis: Theophylline overdose

  1. Condition:

  2. Vital Signs: Neurochecks q2h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90,<90/60; P >130; <50; R >25, <10.

  3. Activity: Bed rest

6. Nursing: ECG monitoring until level <20 mcg/mL, aspirationand seizure precautions. Insert single lumen NG tube andlavage with normal saline if recent ingestion.

  1. Diet: NPO

  2. IV Fluids: D5 ½ NS at 125 cc/h

9. Special Medications:-Activated charcoal 50 gm PO round-the-clock, with sorbitolcathartic, until theophylline level <20 mcg/mL. Maintainhead-of-bed at 30-45 degrees to prevent aspiration of charcoal. -Charcoal hemoperfusion should be considered if the serumlevel is >60 mcg/mL or if signs of neurotoxicity, seizure, coma are present. -Seizure: Lorazepam (Ativan) 0.1 mg/kg IV at 2 mg/min; may

repeat x 1 if seizures continue.

  1. Extras: ECG.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7&12, theophylline level now and in q6-8h;INR/PTT, liver panel. UA.

Tricyclic Antidepressant Overdose

  1. Admit to: medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) intensive care unit.

  2. Diagnosis: TCA Overdose

  1. Condition:

  2. Vital Signs: Neurochecks q1h.

  3. Activity: Bedrest.

6. Nursing: Continuous suicide observation. ECG monitoring,measure QRS width hourly, inputs and outputs, aspiration andseizure precautions. Place single-lumen nasogastric tube andlavage with 2 liters of normal saline if recent ingestion.

  1. Diet: NPO

  2. IV Fluids: NS at 100-150 cc/hr.

  3. Special Medications:

-Activated charcoal premixed with sorbitol, 50 gm via NG tubeq4-6h round-the-clock until the TCA level decreases to therapeutic range. Maintain head-of-bed at 30-45 degree angle toprevent charcoal aspiration.

-Magnesium citrate 300 mL via nasogastric tube x 1 dose.

10. Protection Against Cardiac Toxicity:

-If mechanical ventilation is necessary, hyperventilate to maintain pH 7.50-7.55.

-Administer sodium bicarbonate 50-100 mEq (1-2 amps or 1-2mEq/kg) IV over 5-10 min, followed by infusion of sodiumbicarbonate (2 amps in D5W 1 L) at 100-150 cc/h. Adjust rateto maintain pH 7.50-7.55.

  1. Extras: ECG.

  2. Labs: Urine toxicology screen, serum TCA levels, liver panel,CBC, SMA-7 and 12, UA.

Neurologic Disorders

Ischemic Stroke

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Ischemic stroke

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: Vital signs and neurochecks q30minutes for 6hours, then q60 minutes for 12 hours. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP>185/105, <110/60; P >120, <50; R>24, <10; T >38.5EC; or change in neurologic status.

  5. Activity: Bedrest.

  1. Nursing: Head-of-bed at 30 degrees, turn q2h when awake,range of motion exercises qid. Foley catheter, eggcrate mattress. Guaiac stools, inputs and outputs.Bleeding precautions: check puncture sites for bleeding orhematomas. Apply digital pressure or pressure dressing toactive compressible bleeding sites.

  2. Diet: NPO except medications for 24 hours, then dysphagiaground diet with thickened liquids.

  3. IV Fluids and Oxygen: 0.45% normal saline at 100 cc/h.Oxygen at 2 L per minute by nasal cannula.

9. Special Medications:Ischemic Stroke <3 hours:

a.
Tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA, Alteplase) is indicated ifthe patient presents within 3 hours of onset of symptomsand the stroke is non-hemorrhagic; 0.9 mg/kg (max 90 mg)over 60 min. Give 10% of the total dose as an initial bolus over 1 minute.
b.
Repeat CT scan or MRI 24 hours after completion of tPA.Begin heparin if scan results are negative for hemorrhage.
c.
Heparin 12 U/kg/h continuous IV infusion, without a bolus.Check aPTT q6h to maintain 1.2-1.5 x control.

Completed Ischemic Stroke >3 hours:-Aspirin enteric coated 325 mg PO qd OR -Clopidogrel (Plavix) 75 mg PO qd OR -Aspirin 25 mg/dipyridamole 200 mg (Aggrenox) 1 tab PO bid

OR -Aspirin 325 mg PO qd PLUS Clopidogrel (Plavix) 75 mg PO qd

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV/PO q12h. -Omeprazole (Prilosec) 20 mg PO bid or qhs. -Docusate sodium (Colace) 100 mg PO qhs -Bisacodyl (Dulcolax) 10-15 mg PO qhs or 10 mg PR prn. -Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 650 mg PO/PR q4-6h prn temp

>38°C or headache.

  1. Extras: CXR, ECG, CT without contrast or MRI with gadolinium contrast; carotid duplex scan; echocardiogram, 24-hourHolter monitor; swallowing studies. Physical therapy consult forrange of motion exercises; neurology and rehabilitation medicineconsults.

  2. Labs: CBC, glucose, SMA 7&12, fasting lipid profile, VDRL,ESR; drug levels, INR/PTT, UA. Lupus anticoagulant,anticardiolipin antibody.

Transient Ischemic Attack

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Transient ischemic attack

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q1-4h with neurochecks. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP>160/90, <90/60; P >120, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC; or change in neurologic status.

  1. Activity: Up as tolerated.

  2. Nursing: Guaiac stools.

  3. Diet: Dysphagia ground with thickened liquids or regular diet.

  4. IV Fluids: Heparin lock with flush q shift.

9. Special Medications:-Aspirin 325 mg PO qd OR -Clopidogrel (Plavix) 75 mg PO qd OR -Aspirin 25 mg/dipyridamole 200 mg (Aggrenox) 1 tab PO bid.-Heparin (only if recurrent TIAs or cardiogenic orvertebrobasilar source for emboli) 700-800 U/h (12 U/kg/h)IV infusion without a bolus (25,000 U in 500 mL D5W);adjust q6-12h until PTT 1.2-1.5 x control.

-Warfarin (Coumadin) 5.0-7.5 mg PO qd for 3d, then 2-4 mgPO qd. Titrate to INR of 2.0-2.5.

10. Symptomatic Medications:-Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV/PO q12h.-Docusate sodium (Colace) 100 mg PO qhs.-Milk of magnesia 30 mL PO qd prn constipation.

  1. Extras: CXR, ECG, CT without contrast; carotid duplex scan,echocardiogram, 24-hour Holter monitor. Physical therapy,neurology consults.

  2. Labs: CBC, glucose, SMA 7&12, fasting lipid profile, VDRL,drug levels, INR/PTT, UA.

Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Subarachnoid hemorrhage

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: Vital signs and neurochecks q1-4h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physicianif BP >185/105, <110/60; P >120, <50; R>24, <10; T >38.5EC; or change in neurologic status.

  5. Activity: Bedrest.

  1. Nursing: Head-of-bed at 30 degrees, turn q2h when awake.Foley catheter to closed drainage, eggcrate mattress. Guaiacstools, inputs and outputs.

  2. Diet: NPO except medications.

  3. IV Fluids and Oxygen: 0.45% normal saline at 100 cc/h.Oxygen at 2 L per minute by nasal cannula.-Keep room dark and quiet; strict bedrest. Neurologic checks

q1h for 12 hours, then q2h for 12 hours, then q4h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if abrupt change in neurologic status. -Restrict total fluids to 1000 mL/day; diet as tolerated.

9. Special Medications:-Nimodipine (Nimotop) 60 mg PO or via NG tube q4h for 21d,must start within 96 hours. -Phenytoin (seizures) load 15 mg/kg IV in NS (infuse at max50 mg/min), then 300 mg PO/IV qAM (4-6 mg/kg/d) OR -Valproic acid (Depakene) 500-1000 mg IV q6h.

Hypertension:-Nitroprusside sodium, 0.1-0.5 mcg/kg/min (50 mg in 250 mLNS), titrate to control blood pressure OR -Labetalol (Trandate) 10-20 mg IV q15min prn or 1-2 mg/min IVinfusion.

  1. Extras: CXR, ECG, CT without contrast; MRI angiogram;cerebral angiogram. Neurology, neurosurgery consults.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7&12, VDRL, UA.

Seizure and Status Epilepticus

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Seizure

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q6h with neurochecks. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <90/60; P >120, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC; or any change in neurological status.

  5. Activity: Bed rest

  1. Nursing: Finger stick glucose. Seizure precautions with bedrails up; padded tongue blade at bedside. EEG monitoring.

  2. Diet: NPO for 24h, then regular diet if alert.

  3. IV Fluids: D5 ½ NS at 100 cc/hr; change to heparin lock when taking PO.

9. Special Medications:Status Epilepticus:

  1. Maintain airway.

  2. Position the patient laterally with the head down. The headand extremities should be cushioned to prevent injury.

  3. A bite block or other soft object may be inserted into themouth to prevent injury to the tongue.

  4. Give 100% O2 by mask. Obtain brief history and a fingerstick glucose.

  5. Secure IV access and draw blood for glucose analysis. Givethiamine 100 mg IV push, then dextrose 50% 50 mL IVpush.

6. Initial Control:

Lorazepam (Ativan) 6-8 mg (0.1 mg/kg; not to exceed 2mg/min) IV at 1-2 mg/min. May repeat 6-8 mg q5-10min(max 80 mg/24h) OR

Diazepam (Valium), 5-10 mg slow IV at 1-2 mg/min. Repeat 510 mg q5-10 min prn (max 100 mg/24h).Phenytoin (Dilantin) 15-20 mg/kg load in NS at 50 mg/min.Repeat 100-150 mg IV q30min, max 1.5 gm; monitor BP.

Fosphenytoin (Cerebyx) 20 mg/kg IV/IM (at 150 mg/min),then 4-6 mg/kg/day in 2 or 3 doses (150 mg IV/IM q8h).Fosphenytoin is metabolized to phenytoin; fosphenytoin maybe given IM.

If seizures persist, administer phenobarbital 20 mg/kg IV at50 mg/min, repeat 2 mg/kg q15min; additional phenobarbitalmay be given, up to max of 30-60 mg/kg.

7. If seizures persist, intubate the patient and give:

- Midazolam (Versed) 0.2 mg/kg IV push, then 0.045 mg/kg/hr;titrate up to 0.6 mg/kg/hr OR

-Propofol (Diprivan) 2 mg/kg IV push over 2-5 min, then 50mcg/kg/min; titrate up to 165 mcg/kg/min OR -Phenobarbital as above.

-Induce coma with pentobarbital 10-15 mg/kg IV over 1-2h,then 1-1.5 mg/kg/h continuous infusion. Initiate continuousEEG monitoring.

8. Consider Intubation and General Anesthesia Maintenance Therapy for Epilepsy: Primary Generalized Seizures – First-Line Therapy:

-Carbamazepine (Tegretol) 200-400 mg PO tid [100, 200 mg].Monitor CBC.

-Phenytoin (Dilantin) loading dose of 400 mg PO, followed by300 mg PO q4h for 2 doses (total of 1 g), then 300 mg POqd or 100 mg tid or 200 mg bid [30, 50, 100 mg].

-Divalproex (Depakote) 250-500 mg PO tid-qid with meals[125, 250, 500 mg].-Valproic acid (Depakene) 250-500 mg PO tid-qid with meals[250 mg].

Primary Generalized Seizures -- Second Line Therapy:-Phenobarbital 30-120 mg PO bid [8, 16, 32, 65, 100 mg].-Primidone (Mysoline) 250-500 mg PO tid [50, 250 mg]; metabolized to phenobarbital.-Felbamate (Felbatol) 1200-2400 mg PO qd in 3-4 divideddoses, max 3600 mg/d [400, 600 mg; 600 mg/5 mL susp];adjunct therapy; aplastic anemia, hepatotoxicity.-Gabapentin (Neurontin), 300-400 mg PO bid-tid; max 1800mg/day [100, 300, 400 mg]; adjunct therapy.-Lamotrigine (Lamictal) 50 mg PO qd, then increase to 50-250mg PO bid [25, 100, 150, 200 mg]; adjunct therapy .

Partial Seizure: -Carbamazepine (Tegretol) 200-400 mg PO tid [100, 200 mg].-Divalproex (Depakote) 250-500 mg PO tid with meals [125,250, 500 mg].-Valproic acid (Depakene) 250-500 mg PO tid-qid with meals[250 mg].-Phenytoin (Dilantin) 300 mg PO qd or 200 mg PO bid [30, 50,100].-Phenobarbital 30-120 mg PO tid or qd [8, 16, 32, 65, 100 mg].-Primidone (Mysoline) 250-500 mg PO tid [50, 250 mg]; metabolized to phenobarbital.-Gabapentin (Neurontin), 300-400 mg PO bid-tid; max 1800mg/day [100, 300, 400 mg]; adjunct therapy.-Lamotrigine (Lamictal) 50 mg PO qd, then increase to 50-250mg PO bid [25, 100, 150, 200 mg]; adjunct therapy.-Topiramate (Topamax) 25 mg PO bid; titrate to max 200 mgPO bid [tab 25, 100, 200 mg]; adjunctive therapy.

Absence Seizure:

-Divalproex (Depakote) 250-500 mg PO tid-qid [125, 250, 500

mg].-Clonazepam (Klonopin) 0.5-5 mg PO bid-qid [0.5, 1, 2 mg].-Lamotrigine (Lamictal) 50 mg PO qd, then increase to 50-250

mg PO bid [25, 100, 150, 200 mg]; adjunct therapy.

  1. Extras: MRI with and without gadolinium or CT with contrast;EEG (with photic stimulation, hyperventilation, sleep deprivation,awake and asleep tracings); portable CXR, ECG.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7, glucose, Mg, calcium, phosphate, liverpanel, VDRL, anticonvulsant levels. UA, drug screen.

Endocrinologic Disorders

Diabetic Ketoacidosis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Diabetic ketoacidosis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q1-4h, postural BP and pulse. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP>160/90, <90/60; P >140, <50; R >30, <10; T >38.5EC; or urine output <20 mL/hr for more than 2 hours.

  1. Activity: Bed rest with bedside commode.

  2. Nursing: Inputs and outputs. Foley to closed drainage. Recordlabs on flow sheet.

  3. Diet: NPO for 12 hours, then clear liquids as tolerated.

8. IV Fluids: 1-2 L NS over 1-3h ($16 gauge), infuse at 400-1000 mL/h untilhemodynamiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y stable, then change to 0.45% saline at125-150 cc/hr; keep urine output >30-60 mL/h.Add KCL when serum potassium is <5.0 mEq/L.Concentration.......20-40 mEq KCL/LUse K phosphate, 20-40 mEq/L, in place of KCL ifhypophosphatemic.Change to 5% dextrose in 0.45% saline with 20-40 mEqKCL/liter when blood glucose is 250-300 mg/dL.

9. Special Medications:

-Oxygen at 2 L/min by NC.

-Insulin regular (Humulin) 7-10 units (0.1 U/kg) IV bolus, then7-10 U/h IV infusion (0.1 U/kg/h); 50 U in 250 mL of 0.9%saline; flush IV tubing with 20 mL of insulin solution beforestarting infusion. Adjust insulin infusion to decrease serumglucose by 100 mg/dL or less per hour. When bicarbonatelevel is >16 mEq/L and the anion gap is <16 mEq/L, decrease insulin infusion rate by half.

-When the glucose level reaches 250 mg/dL, 5% dextroseshould be added to the replacement fluids with KCL 20-40mEq/L.

-Use 10% glucose at 50-100 mL/h if anion gap persists andserum glucose has decreased to less than 100 mg/dL whileon insulin infusion.

-Change to subcutaneous insulin when the anion gap hascleared; discontinue insulin infusion 1-2h after subcutaneous dose.

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV q12h. -Docusate sodium (Colace) 100 mg PO qhs.

-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 325-650 mg PO q4-6h prn headache.

  1. Extras: Portable CXR, ECG.

  2. Labs: Fingerstick glucose q1-2h. SMA 7 q4-6h. SMA 12, pH,bicarbonate, phosphate, amylase, lipase, hemoglobin A1c; CBC.UA, serum pregnancy test.

Nonketotic Hyperosmolar Syndrome

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Nonketotic hyperosmolar syndrome

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q1h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <90/60; P>140, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5E C; or urine output <20 cc/hr for more than 4 hours.

  5. Activity: Bed rest with bedside commode.

6. Nursing: Input and output measurement. Foley to closeddrainage. Record labs on flow sheet.

  1. Diet: NPO.

  2. IV Fluids: 1-2 L NS over 1h ($16 gauge IV catheter), then give0.45% saline at 125 cc/hr. Maintain urine output $50 mL/h.-Add 20-40 mEq/L KCL when urine output adequate.

  3. Special Medications:

-Insulin regular 2-3 U/h IV infusion (50 U in 250 mL of 0.9%

saline).

-Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV/PO q12h OR

-Lansoprazole (Prevacid) 30 mg PO qd.

-Heparin 5000 U SQ q12h.

  1. Extras: Portable CXR, ECG.

  2. Labs: Fingerstick glucose q1-2h x 6h, then q6h. SMA 7,osmolality. SMA 12, phosphate, ketones, hemoglobin A1C, CBC.UA.

Nephrologic Disorders

Renal Failure

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Renal failure

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q8h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if QRS complex >0.14 sec;urine output <20 cc/hr; BP >160/90, <90/60; P >120, <50;R>25, <10; T >38.5EC.

  5. Allergies: Avoid magnesium containing antacids, salt substitutes, NSAIDS. Discontinue phosphate or potassium supplements.

  6. Activity: Bed rest.

  1. Nursing: Daily weights, inputs and outputs, chart urine output.If no urine output for 4h, in-and-out catheterize. Guaiac stools.

  2. Diet: Renal diet of high biologic value protein of 0.6-0.8 g/kg,sodium 2 g, potassium 1 mEq/kg, and at least 35 kcal/kg ofnonprotein calories. In oliguric patients, daily fluid intake shouldbe restricted to less than 1 L after volume has been normalized.

  3. IV Fluids: D5W at TKO.

10. Special Medications:-Consider fluid challenge (to rule out pre-renal azotemia if notfluid overloaded) with 500-1000 mL NS IV over 30 min. Inacute renal failure, in-and-out catheterize and check postvoid residual to rule out obstruction. -Furosemide (Lasix) 80-320 mg IV bolus over 10-60 min,double the dose if no response after 2 hours to total max1000 mg/24h, or furosemide 1000 mg in 250 mL D5W at 2040 mg/hr continuous IV infusion OR -Torsemide (Demadex) 20-40 mg IV bolus over 5-10 min,double the dose up to max 200 mg/day OR -Bumetanide (Bumex) 1-2 mg IV bolus over 1-20 min; doublethe dose if no response in 1-2 h to total max 10 mg/day.-Metolazone (Zaroxolyn) 5-10 mg PO (max 20 mg/24h) 30 minbefore a loop diuretic.-Hyperkalemia is treated with sodium polystyrene sulfonate(Kayexalate), 15-30 gm PO/NG/PR q4-6h.-Hyperphosphatemia is controlled with calcium acetate(PhosLo), 2-3 tabs with meals.-Metabolic acidosis is treated with sodium bicarbonate to maintain the serum pH >7.2 and the bicarbonate level >20mEq/L. 1-2 amps (50-100 mEq) IV push, followed by infusion of 2-3 amps in 1000 mL of D5W at 150 mL/hr.-Adjust all medications to creatinine clearance, and removepotassium phosphate and magnesium from IV. AvoidNSAIDs and nephrotoxic drugs.

  1. Extras: CXR, ECG, renal ultrasound, nephrology and dietetics consults.

  2. Labs: CBC, platelets, SMA 7&12, creatinine, BUN, potassium, magnesium, phosphate, calcium, uric acid, osmolality, ESR, INR/PTT, ANA. Urine specific gravity, UA with micro, urine C&S; 1st AM spot urine electrolytes, eosinophils, creatinine, pH, osmolality; Wright's stain, urine electrophoresis. 24h urine protein, creatinine, sodium.

Nephrolithiasis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Nephrolithiasis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q8h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if urine output <30 cc/hr; BP>160/90, <90/60; T >38.5EC.

  5. Activity: Up ad lib.

  1. Nursing: Strain urine, measure inputs and outputs. PlaceFoley if no urine for 4 hours.

  2. Diet: Regular, push oral fluids.

  3. IV Fluids: IV D5 ½ NS at 100-125 cc/hr (maintain urine outputof 80 mL/h).

9. Special Medications:

-Cefazolin (Ancef) 1-2 gm IV q8h

-Meperidine (Demerol) 75-100 mg and hydroxyzine 25 mg

IM/IV q2-4h prn pain OR -Butorphanol (Stadol) 0.5-2 mg IV q3-4h.-Hydrocodone/acetaminophen (Vicodin), 1-2 tab q4-6h PO prn

pain OR -Oxycodone/acetaminophen (Percocet) 1 tab q6h prn pain OR -Acetaminophen with codeine (Tylenol 3) 1-2 tabs PO q3-4h

prn pain.-Ketorolac (Toradol) 10 mg PO q4-6h prn pain, or 30-60 mgIV/IM then 15-30 mg IV/IM q6h (max 5 days).-Zolpidem (Ambien) 10 mg PO qhs prn insomnia.

  1. Extras: Intravenous pyelogram, KUB, CXR, ECG.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 6 and 12, calcium, uric acid, phosphorous,UA with micro, urine C&S, urine pH, INR/PTT. Urine cystine(nitroprusside test), send stones for X-ray crystallography. 24hour urine collection for uric acid, calcium, creatinine.

Hypercalcemia

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Hypercalcemia

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q4h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <90/60; P>120, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC; or tetany or any abnormal mental status.

  5. Activity: Encourage ambulation; up in chair at other times.

  1. Nursing: Seizure precautions, measure inputs and outputs.

  2. Diet: Restrict dietary calcium to 400 mg/d, push PO fluids.

8. Special Medications:-1-2 L of 0.9% saline over 1-4 hours until no longer hypotensive, then saline diuresis with 0.9% saline infused at 125 cc/h AND -Furosemide (Lasix) 20-80 mg IV q4-12h. Maintain urine outputof 200 mL/h; monitor serum sodium, potassium, magnesium.-Calcitonin (Calcimar) 4-8 IU/kg IM q12h or SQ q6-12h.-Etidronate (Didronel) 7.5 mg/kg/day in 250 mL of normalsaline IV infusion over 2 hours. May repeat in 3 days.-Pamidronate (Aredia) 60 mg in 500 mL of NS infused over 4hours or 90 mg in 1 liter of NS infused over 24 hours x onedose.

  1. Extras: CXR, ECG, mammogram.

  2. Labs: Total and ionized calcium, parathyroid hormone, SMA7&12, phosphate, Mg, alkaline phosphatase, prostate specificantigen and carcinoembryonic antigen. 24h urine calcium, phosphate.

Hypocalcemia

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Hypocalcemia

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q4h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <90/60; P>120, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC; or any abnormal mental status.

  5. Activity: Up ad lib

  6. Nursing: I and O.

  1. Diet: No added salt diet.

  2. Special Medications:Symptomatic Hypocalcemia:

-Calcium chloride, 10% (270 mg calcium/10 mL vial), give 5-10mL slowly over 10 min or dilute in 50-100 mL of D5W andinfuse over 20 min, repeat q20-30 min if symptomatic, orhourly if asymptomatic. Correct hyperphosphatemia beforehypocalcemia OR

-Calcium gluconate, 20 mL of 10% solution IV (2 vials)(90 mgelemental calcium/10 mL vial) infused over 10-15 min, followed by infusion of 60 mL of calcium gluconate in 500 cc ofD5W (1 mg/mL) at 0.5-2.0 mg/kg/h.

Chronic Hypocalcemia:-Calcium carbonate with vitamin D (Oscal-D) 1-2 tab PO tid OR -Calcium carbonate (Oscal) 1-2 tab PO tid OR -Calcium citrate (Citracal) 1 tab PO q8h or Extra strength Tums1-2 tabs PO with meals. -Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol) 1 tab PO qd.-Calcitriol (Rocaltrol) 0.25 mcg PO qd, titrate up to 0.5-2.0 mcgqid.-Docusate sodium (Colace) 1 tab PO bid.

  1. Extras: CXR, ECG.

  2. Labs: SMA 7&12, phosphate, Mg. 24h urine calcium, potassium, phosphate, magnesium.

Hyperkalemia

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Hyperkalemia

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q4h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if QRS complex >0.14 sec orBP >160/90, <90/60; P >120, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC.

  1. Activity: Bed rest; up in chair as tolerated.

  2. Nursing: Inputs and outputs. Chart QRS complex width q1h.

  3. Diet: Regular, no salt substitutes.

  4. IV Fluids: D5NS at 125 cc/h

9. Special Medications:-Discontinue ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers,beta-blockers, potassium sparing diuretics.-Calcium gluconate (10% solution) 10-30 mL IV over 2-5 min;second dose may be given in 5 min. Contraindicated ifdigoxin toxicity is suspected. Keep 10 mL vial of calciumgluconate at bedside for emergent use.-Sodium bicarbonate 1 amp (50 mEq) IV over 5 min (give aftercalcium in separate IV).-Regular insulin 10 units IV push with 1 ampule of 50% glucose IV push.-Kayexalate 30-45 gm premixed in sorbitol solution PO/NG/PRnow and q3-4h prn.

-Furosemide 40-80 mg IV, repeat prn.-Consider emergent dialysis if cardiac complications or renalfailure.

  1. Extras: ECG.

  2. Labs: CBC, platelets, SMA7, magnesium, calcium, SMA-12.UA, urine specific gravity, urine sodium, pH, 24h urine potassium,creatinine.

Hypokalemia

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Hypokalemia

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: Vitals, urine output q4h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP>160/90, <90/60; P>120, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC.

  1. Activity: Bed rest; up in chair as tolerated.

  2. Nursing: Inputs and outputs

  3. Diet: Regular

8. Special Medications:Acute Therapy:

-KCL 20-40 mEq in 100 cc saline infused IVPB over 2 hours; oradd 40-80 mEq to 1 liter of IV fluid and infuse over 4-8hours.

-KCL elixir 40 mEq PO tid (in addition to IV); max total dose100-200 mEq/d (3 mEq/kg/d).

Chronic Therapy:-Micro-K 10 mEq tabs 2-3 tabs PO tid after meals (40-100mEq/d) OR -K-Dur 20 mEq tabs 1 PO bid-tid.

Hypokalemia with metabolic acidosis:-Potassium citrate 15-30 mL in juice PO qid after meals (1mEq/mL).-Potassium gluconate 15 mL in juice PO qid after meals (20mEq/15 mL).

  1. Extras: ECG, dietetics consult.

  2. Labs: CBC, magnesium, SMA 7&12. UA, urine Na, pH, 24hurine for K, creatinine.

Hypermagnesemia

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Hypermagnesemia

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q6h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if QRS >0.14 sec.

  5. Activity: Up ad lib

  1. Nursing: Inputs and outputs, daily weights.

  2. Diet: Regular

8. Special Medications:-Saline diuresis 0.9% saline infused at 100-200 cc/h to replaceurine loss AND -Calcium chloride, 1-3 gm added to saline (10% solution; 1 gmper 10 mL amp) to run at 1 gm/hr AND -Furosemide (Lasix) 20-40 mg IV q4-6h as needed.-Magnesium of >9.0 mEq/L requires stat hemodialysis because of risk of respiratory failure.

  1. Extras: ECG

  2. Labs: Magnesium, calcium, SMA 7&12, creatinine. 24 hoururine magnesium, creatinine.

Hypomagnesemia

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Hypomagnesemia

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q6h

  5. Activity: Up ad lib

6. Diet: Regular

7. Special Medications:-Magnesium sulfate 4-6 gm in 500 mL D5W IV at 1 gm/hr. Holdif no patellar reflex. (Estimation of Mg deficit = 0.2 x kgweight x desired increase in Mg concentration; give deficitover 2-3d) OR -Magnesium sulfate (severe hypomagnesemia <1.0) 1-2 gm(2-4 mL of 50% solution) IV over 15 min, OR -Magnesium chloride (Slow-Mag) 65-130 mg (1-2 tabs) PO tidqid (64 mg or 5.3 mEq/tab) OR -Milk of magnesia 5 mL PO qd-qid.

  1. Extras: ECG

  2. Labs: Magnesium, calcium, SMA 7&12. Urine Mg, electrolytes,24h urine magnesium, creatinine.

Hypernatremia

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Hypernatremia

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q2-8h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <70/50; P>140, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC.

  5. Activity: Bed rest; up in chair as tolerated.

  1. Nursing: Inputs and outputs, daily weights.

  2. Diet: No added salt. Push oral fluids.

  3. Special Medications:Hypernatremia with Hypovolemia:

If volume depleted, give 1-2 L NS IV over 1-3 hours until notorthostatic, then give D5W IV to replace half of body waterdeficit over first 24hours (correct sodium at 1 mEq/L/h),then remaining deficit over next 1-2 days.

Body water deficit (L) = 0.6(weight kg)([Na serum]-140) 140

Hypernatremia with ECF Volume Excess: -Furosemide 40-80 mg IV or PO qd-bid.-Salt poor albumin (25%) 50-100 mL bid-tid x 48-72 h.

Hypernatremia with Diabetes Insipidus:

-D5W to correct body water deficit (see above).

-Pitressin 5-10 U IM/IV q6h or desmopressin (DDAVP) 4 mcg

IV/SQ q12h; keep urine specific gravity >1.010.

  1. Extras: CXR, ECG.

  2. Labs: SMA 7&12, serum osmolality, liver panel, ADH, plasmarenin activity. UA, urine specific gravity. Urine osmolality, Na, 24hurine K, creatinine.

Hyponatremia

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Hyponatremia

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: q4h. Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician if BP >160/90, <70/50; P>140, <50; R>25, <10; T >38.5EC.

  5. Activity: Up in chair as tolerated.

  1. Nursing: Inputs and outputs, daily weights.

  2. Diet: Regular diet.

8. Special Medications:

Hyponatremia with Hypervolemia and Edema (lowosmolality <280 mOsm/L, UNa <10 mmol/L: nephrosis,heart failure, cirrhosis):

-Water restrict to 0.5-1.0 L/d.

-Furosemide 40-80 mg IV or PO qd-bid.

Hyponatremia with Normal Volume Status (low osmolality<280 mOsm/L, UNa <10 mmol: water intoxication; UNa >20:SIADH, diuretic-induced):

-Water restrict to 0.5-1.5 L/d.

Hyponatremia with Hypovolemia (low osmolality <280 mOsm/L)

UNa <10 mmol/L: vomiting, diarrhea, third space/respiratory/skin

loss; UNa >20 mmol/L: diuretics, renal injury, RTA, adrenal

insufficiency, partial obstruction, salt wasting:-If volume depleted, give 0.5-2 L of 0.9% saline over 1-2 hoursuntil no longer hypotensive, then 0.9% saline at 125 mL/h or100-500 mL 3% hypertonic saline over 4h.

Severe Symptomatic Hyponatremia: If volume depleted, give 1-2 L of 0.9% saline (154 mEq/L) over1-2 hours until no longer orthostatic.Determine volume of 3% hypertonic saline (513 mEq/L) to beinfused:

Na (mEq) deficit = 0.6 x (wt kg)x(desired [Na] - actual [Na])

Volume of solution (L) = Sodium to be infused (mEq)

Number of hrs (mEq/L in solution) x Number of hrs

-Correct half of sodium deficit intravenously over 24 hours untilserum sodium is 120 mEq/L; increase sodium by 12-20mEq/L over 24 hours (1 mEq/L/h).

-Alternative Method: 3% saline 100-300 mL over 4-6h, repeated as needed.

  1. Extras: CXR, ECG, head/chest CT scan.

  2. Labs: SMA 7&12, osmolality, triglyceride, liver panel. UA,urine specific gravity. Urine osmolality, Na.

Hyperphosphatemia

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Hyperphosphatemia

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: qid

  5. Activity: Up ad lib

  1. Nursing: Inputs and outputs

  2. Diet: Low phosphorus diet.

8. Special Medications:Moderate Hyperphosphatemia:

-Restrict dietary phosphate to 0.7-1.0 gm/d.-Calcium acetate (PhosLo) 1-3 tabs PO tid with meals OR -Aluminum hydroxide (Amphojel) 5-10 mL or 1-2 tablets PO

before meals tid.

Severe Hyperphosphatemia:-Volume expansion with 0.9% saline 1-2 L over 1-2h.-Acetazolamide (Diamox) 500 mg PO or IV q6h.-Consider dialysis.

  1. Extras: CXR PA and LAT, ECG.

  2. Labs: Phosphate, SMA 7&12, magnesium, calcium. UA,parathyroid hormone.

Hypophosphatemia

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Hypophosphatemia

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: qid

  5. Activity: Up ad lib

  1. Nursing: Inputs and outputs.

  2. Diet: Regular diet.

8. Special Medications: Mild to Moderate Hypophosphatemia (1.0-2.2 mg/dL):

-Sodium or potassium phosphate 0.25 mMoles/kg in 150-250mL of NS or D5W at 10 mMoles/h.-Neutral phosphate (Nutra-Phos), 2 tab PO bid (250 mg elemental phosphorus/tab) OR -Phospho-Soda 5 mL (129 mg phosphorus) PO bid-tid.

Severe Hypophosphatemia (<1.0 mg/dL):-Na or K phosphate 0.5 mMoles/kg in 250 mL D5W or NS, IVinfusion at 10 mMoles/hr OR -Add potassium phosphate to IV solution in place of maintenance KCL; max IV dose 7.5 mg phosphorus/kg/6h.

  1. Extras: CXR PA and LAT, ECG.

  2. Labs: Phosphate, SMA 7&12, Mg, calcium, UA.

Rheumatologic Disorders

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: tid

  5. Allergies:

6. Activity: Up as tolerated with bathroom privileges

7. Nursing

  1. Diet: No added salt, low psoralen diet.

    1. Special Medications:-Ibuprofen (Motrin) 400 mg PO qid (max 2.4 g/d) OR -Indomethacin (Indocin) 25-50 mg tid-qid.-Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) 200-600 mg/d PO-Prednisone 60-100 mg PO qd. Maintenance 10-20 mg PO qd

    2. or 20-40 mg PO qOD OR -Methylprednisolone (pulse therapy) 500 mg IV over 30 minq12h for 3-5d, then prednisone 50 mg PO qd.-Betamethasone dipropionate (Diprolene) 0.05% ointmentapplied bid.
  2. Extras: CXR PA, LAT, ECG. Rheumatology consult.

  3. Labs: CBC, platelets, SMA 7&12, INR/PTT, ESR, complement CH-50, C3, C4, C-reactive protein, LE prep, Coombs test,VDRL, rheumatoid factor, ANA, DNA binding, lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin, antinuclear cytoplasmic antibody. UA.

Acute Gout Attack

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Acute gout attack

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital Signs: tid

  1. Activity: Bed rest with bedside commode

  2. Nursing: Keep foot elevated; support sheets over foot; guaiac stools.

  3. Diet: Low purine diet.

  4. Special Medications:-Ibuprofen (Motrin) 800 mg, then 400-800 mg PO q4-6h OR -Diclofenac (Voltaren) 25-75 mg tid-qid with food OR -Indomethacin (Indocin) 50 mg PO q6h for 2d, then 50 mg tid

for 2 days, then 25 mg PO tid OR -Ketorolac (Toradol) 30-60 mg IV/IM, then 15-30 mg IV/IM q6h

or 10 mg PO tid-qid OR -Naproxen sodium (Anaprox, Anaprox-DS) 550 mg PO bid OR -Methylprednisolone (SoluMedrol) 125 mg IV x 1 dose THEN -Prednisone 60 mg PO qd for 5 days, followed by tapering.-Colchicine 2 tablets (0.5 mg or 0.6 mg), followed by 1 tablet

q1h until relief, max dose of 9.6 mg/24h. Maintenancecolchicine: 0.5-0.6 mg PO qd-bid.

Hypouricemic Therapy:

-Probenecid (Benemid), 250 mg bid. Increase the dosage to500 mg bid after 1 week, then increase by 500-mg increments every 4 weeks until the uric acid level is below 6.5mg/dL. Max dose 2 g/d. Contraindicated during acute attack.

-Allopurinol (Zyloprim) 300 mg PO qd, may increase by 100300 mg q2weeks. Usually initiated after the acute attack.

9. Symptomatic Medications:

-Famotidine (Pepcid) 20 mg IV/PO q12h.-Meperidine (Demerol) 50-100 mg IM/IV q4-6h prn pain OR -Hydrocodone/acetaminophen (Vicodin), 1-2 tab q4-6h PO prn

pain.-Docusate sodium (Colace) 100 mg PO qhs.-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 325-650 mg PO q4-6h prn head

ache. -Zolpidem (Ambien) 5-10 mg qhs prn insomnia.

10. Labs: CBC, SMA 7, uric acid. UA with micro. Synovial fluid forlight and polarizing micrography for crystals; C&S, Gram stain,glucose, protein, cell count. X-ray views of joint. 24-hour urine foruric acid.

PEDIATRICS

General Pediatrics

Pediatric History and Physical Examination

History

Identifying Data: Patient's name; age, sex. List the patient’s significant medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) problems. Name and relationship to child of informant (patient, parent). Chief Compliant: Reason given for seeking medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) care and the duration of the symptom(s). History of Present Illness (HPI): Describe the course of the patient's illness, including when it began, character of the symptom(s); aggravating or alleviating factors; pertinent positives and negatives. Past diagnostic testing. Past medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) History (PMH): Past diseases, surgeries, hospitalizations; medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) problems; history of asthma. Birth History: Gestational age at birth, preterm, obstetrical problems. Developmental History: Motor skills, language development, self- care skills. Medications: Include prescription and OTC drugs, vitamins, herbal products, natural remedies, nutritional supplements. Feedings: Diet, volume of formula per day. Immunizations: Up-to-date? Drug Allergies: Penicillin, codeine? Food Allergies: Family History: medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) problems in family, including the patient's disorder. Asthma, cancer, tuberculosis, allergies. Social History: Family situation, alcohol, smoking, drugs. Level of education.

Review of Systems (ROS):General: Weight loss, fever, chills, fatigue, night sweats. Skin: Rashes, skin discolorations. Head: Headaches, dizziness, seizures. Eyes: Visual changes.Ears: Tinnitus, vertigo, hearing loss. Nose: Nose bleeds, discharge.Mouth and Throat: Dental disease, hoarseness, throat pain.Respiratory: Cough, shortness of breath, sputum (color andconsistency).Cardiovascular: Dyspnea on exertion, edema, valvular disease. Gastrointestinal: Abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation.Genitourinary: Dysuria, frequency, hematuria.Gynecological: Last menstrual period (frequency, duration),age of menarche; dysmenorrhea, contraception, vaginal bleeding, breast masses.Endocrine: Polyuria, polydipsia.Musculoskeletal: Joint pain or swelling, arthritis, myalgias.Skin and Lymphatics: Easy bruising, lymphadenopathy. Neuropsychiatric: Weakness, seizures. Pain: quality (sharp/stabbing, aching, pressure), location,duration

Physical Examination

General appearance: Note whether the patient looks “ill,” well, or malnourished. Physical Measurements: weight, height, head circumference (plot on growth charts). Vital Signs: Temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure. Skin: Rashes, scars, moles, skin turgor, capillary refill (in seconds). Lymph Nodes: Cervical, axillary, inguinal nodes: size, tenderness. Head: Bruising, masses, fontanels. Eyes: Pupils: equal, round, and reactive to light and accommodation (PERRLA); extra ocular movements intact (EOMI). Funduscopy (papilledema, hemorrhages, exudates). Ears: Acuity, tympanic membranes (dull, shiny, intact, infected, bulging). Mouth and Throat: Mucus membrane color and moisture; oral lesions, dentition, pharynx, tonsils. Neck: Thyromegaly, lymphadenopathy, masses. Chest: Equal expansion, rhonchi, crackles, rubs, breath sounds. Heart: Regular rate and rhythm (RRR), first and second heart sounds (S1, S2); gallops (S3, S4), murmurs (grade 1-6), pulses (graded 0-2+). Breast: Discharge, masses; axillary masses. Abdomen: Bowel sounds, bruits, tenderness, masses; hepatomegaly, splenomegaly; guarding, rebound, percussion note (tympanic), suprapubic tenderness. Genitourinary: Inguinal masses, hernias, scrotum, testicles. Pelvic Examination: Vaginal mucosa, cervical discharge, uterine size, masses, adnexal masses, ovaries. Extremities: Joint swelling, range of motion, edema (grade 1-4+); cyanosis, clubbing, edema (CCE); pulses. Rectal Examination: Sphincter tone, masses, fissures; test for occult blood Neurological: Mental status and affect; gait, strength (graded 05), sensation, deep tendon reflexes (biceps, triceps, patellar, ankle; graded 0-4+). Labs: Electrolytes (sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, chloride, BUN, creatinine), CBC (hemoglobin, hematocrit, WBC count, platelets, differential); x-rays, ECG, urine analysis (UA), liver function tests (LFTs). Assessment (Impression): Assign a number to each problem and discuss separately. Discuss differential diagnosis and give reasons that support the working diagnosis; give reasons for excluding other diagnoses.

Plan: Describe therapeutic plan for each numbered problem,including testing, laboratory studies, medications.

Progress Notes

Daily progress notes should summarize developments in a patient's hospital course, problems that remain active, plans to treatthose problems, and arrangements for discharge. Progress notesshould address every element of the problem list.

Example Progress Note
Date/time: Identify Discipline and Level of Education: e.g. Pediatricresident PL-3 Subjective: Any problems and symptoms of the patient shouldbe charted. Appetite, pain, or fussiness may be included.Objective:General appearance.Vitals, including highest temperature (Tmax) over past 24hours. Feedings, fluid inputs and outputs (I/O), includingoral and parenteral intake and urine and stool volume output.Physical exam, including chest and abdomen, with particular attention to active problems. Emphasize changes fromprevious physical exams.Labs: Include new test results and flag abnormal values.Current Medications: List all medications and dosages.Assessment and Plan: This section should be organized byproblem. A separate assessment and plan should be writtenfor each problem.

Discharge Note

The discharge note should be written in the patient’s chart prior todischarge.

Discharge Note
Date/time:Diagnoses:Treatment: Briefly describe treatment provided during hospitalization, including surgical procedures and antibiotic therapy.Studies Performed: Electrocardiograms, CT scans.Discharge Medications:Follow-up Arrangements:

Prescription Writing

  • Patient’s name:

  • Date:

  • Drug name, dosage form, dose, route, frequency (include concentration for oral liquids or mg strength for oral solids):Amoxicillin 125mg/5mL 5 mL PO tid

  • Quantity to dispense: mL for oral liquids, # of oral solids

  • Refills: If appropriate

  • Signature

Developmental Milestones

Age Milestones
1 month Raises head slightly when prone; alerts to sound;regards face, moves extremities equally.
2-3 months Smiles, holds head up, coos, reaches for familiarobjects, recognizes parent.
4-5 months Rolls front to back and back to front; sits well when propped; laughs, orients to voice; enjoyslooking around; grasps rattle, bears some weighton legs.
6 months Sits unsupported; passes cube hand to hand;babbles; uses raking grasp; feeds self crackers.
8-9 months Crawls, cruises; pulls to stand; pincer grasp;plays pat-a-cake; feeds self with bottle; sits without support; explores environment.
12 months Walking, talking a few words; understands "no";says "mama/dada" discriminantly; throws objects;imitates actions, marks with crayon, drinks from a cup.
15-18 months Comes when Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)ed; scribbles; walks backward; uses 4-20 words; builds tower of 2 blocks.
24-30 months Removes shoes; follows 2 step command; jumpswith both feet; holds pencil, knows first and lastname; knows pronouns. Parallel play; points tobody parts, runs, spoon feeds self, copies parents.
3 years Dresses and undresses; walks up and downsteps; draws a circle; uses 3-4 word sentences;takes turns; shares. Group play.
4 years Hops, skips, catches ball; memorizes songs;plays cooperatively; knows colors; copies a circle;uses plurals.
5 years Jumps over objects; prints first name; knowsaddress and mother's name; follows game rules;draws three part man; hops on one foot.

Immunizations Haemophilus Immunization

Immunization Schedule for Infants and Children
Age Immunizations Comments
Birth - 2 mo HBV If mother is HbsAg positive orunknown status, the first dose of HBV should be given within 12hours of birth along with hepatitisB immune globulin 0.5 mL.
1-4 mo HBV The second HBV dose should be given at least one month afterthe first dose. For infants of HbsAg positive or unknown status mothers, the second dose should be given at 1-2 months of age.
2 mo DTaP, Hib, IPV, PCV DTP and Hib are available combined as Tetramune. The pneumococcal vaccine recommendation is new for 2001.
4 mo DTaP, Hib, IPV, PCV
6 mo DTaP, (Hib), PCV Dose 3 of Hib is not indicated if the product for doses 1 and 2was PedvaxHIB.
6-18 mo HBV, IPV The third HBV dose should be administered at least 4 months after the first dose and at least 2 months after the second dose. For infants of HbsAg positive orunknown status mothers, the third dose should be given at 6months of age.
12-15 mo 12-18 mo Hib, PCV, MMR VAR Tuberculin testing may be doneat the same visit if indicated. Varicella vaccine is recommended in children who do not have a reliable history of havinghad the clinical disease.
15-18 mo DTaP The 4th dose of DTaP should be given 6-12 mo after the thirddose of DTaP and may be givenas early as 12 mo, provided thatthe interval between doses 3 and 4 is at least 6 mo.
4-6 yr DTaP, IPV, MMR DTaP and IPV should be givenat or before school entry. DTaPshould not be given after the 7thbirthday
11-12 yr MMR Omit if MMR dose was given atage 4-6 years.
14-16 yr Td Repeat every 10 yrs throughoutlife
HBV = Hepatitis B virus vaccine; DTaP = diphtheria and tetanus toxoidsand acellular pertussis vaccine; Hib = Haemophilus influenzae type bconjugate vaccine; IPV = inactivated polio vaccine; MMR = live measles, mumps, and rubella viruses vaccine; PCV = pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (Prevnar); Td = adult tetanus toxoid (full dose) and diphtheria toxoid (reduced dose), for children >7 yr and adults; VAR =varicella virus vaccine
Recommended Schedule for Children Younger than 7Years Not Immunized in the First Year of Life
Age Immunizations Comments
First visit DTaP, (Hib), HBV,MMR, IPV, (PCV),VAR If indicated, tuberculin testingmay be done at the samevisit. If child is >5 years, Hib is notindicated. PCV recommended for all children < 2 yrs or 2459 months of age and at highrisk for invasive pneumococcal disease (e.g.sickle cell anemia, HIV, immunocompromised).Varicella vaccine if child has not had varicella disease.
Interval after 1st visit 1 month 2 months >8 months DTaP, HBV DTaP, Hib, IPV, (PCV)DTaP, HBV, IPV Second dose of Hib is indicated only if first dose wasreceived when <15 months. Second dose of PCV 6-8 weeks after first dose (if criteria met above).
4-6 years (at or before school entry) DTaP, IPV, MMR DTaP is not necessary if thefourth dose was given afterthe fourth birthday. IPV is notnecessary if the third dosewas given after the fourthbirthday.
11-12 yr MMR MMR should be given at entryto middle school or junior highschool if it wasn’t given at age4-6 years.
10 yr later Td Repeat every 10 yrs
HBV = Hepatitis B virus vaccine; DTaP = diphtheria and tetanus toxoidsand acellular pertussis vaccine; Hib = Haemophilus influenzae type bconjugate vaccine; IPV = inactivated polio vaccine; MMR = live measles, mumps, and rubella viruses vaccine; PCV = pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (Prevnar); Td = adult tetanus toxoid (full dose) and diphtheria toxoid (reduced dose), for children >7 yr and adults; VAR =varicella virus vaccine
Recommended Schedule for Children >7 Years Who Were Not Immunized Previously
Age Immunizations Comments
First visit HBV, IPV, MMR, Td, VAR Varicella vaccine if child has not had varicella disease.
Interval after First visit 2 months 8-14 months HBV, IPV, Td, VAR, MMR HBV, Td, IPV If child is >13 years old, asecond varicella vaccine dose is needed 4-8 weeks after the first dose.
11-12 yrs old MMR Omit if MMR dose was given at age 4-6 years.
10 yr later Td Repeat every 10 years
HBV = Hepatitis B virus vaccine; DTaP = diphtheria and tetanus toxoidsand acellular pertussis vaccine; Hib = Haemophilus influenzae type bconjugate vaccine; IPV = inactivated polio vaccine; MMR = live measles, mumps, and rubella viruses vaccine; PCV = pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (Prevnar); Td = adult tetanus toxoid (full dose) and diphtheria toxoid (reduced dose), for children >7 yr and adults; VAR =varicella virus vaccine
H influenzae type b Vaccination in Children ImmunizedBeginning at 2 to 6 Months of Age
Vaccine Product Total Number of Doses Regimens
PedvaxHIB (PRP-OMP) 3 2 doses two months apart plusbooster at 12-15 months which must be at least two months after previous dose. Any vaccine maybe used for the booster.
HibTITER (HbOC),ActHIB (PRPT), OmniHIB(PRP-T) 4 3 doses two months apart plusbooster at 12-15 months which must be at least two months after previous dose. Any vaccine maybe used for the booster.
H influenzae type b Vaccination When the Initial Vaccination was Delayed Until 7 Months of Age or Older
Age at Initiation Vaccine Product Total Doses Regimens
7-11 mo any vaccine(PedvaxHIBor HibTITER or ActHIB or OmniHIB) 3 2 doses at 2month intervals plus booster at12-18 months (atleast 2 months after previousdose)
12-14 mo any vaccine 2 2 doses 2 months apart
15-59 mo any vaccine 1 Single dose ofany product
>5 years Any vaccine 1 Only recommended for children with chronic illness known to be associated with an increased risk for H flu disease.

Varicella Immunization

Indications for Varicella Immunization:

A. Age 12 to 18 months: One dose of varicella vaccine isrecommended for universal immunization for all health(Buy now from <a href="http://www.drugswell.com/wow/index.php">http://www.drugswell.com</a>)ychildren who lack a reliable history of varicella.

B. Age 19 months to the 13th birthday: Vaccination of suscepti

ble children is recommended and may be given any timeduring childhood but before the 13th birthday because of thepotential increased severity of natural varicella after thisage. Susceptible is defined by either lack of proof of eithervaricella vaccination or a reliable history of varicella. Onedose is recommended.

C. health(Buy now from <a href="http://www.drugswell.com/wow/index.php">http://www.drugswell.com</a>)y adolescents and young adults: health(Buy now from <a href="http://www.drugswell.com/wow/index.php">http://www.drugswell.com</a>)y adolescentspast their 13th birthday who have not been immunized previously and have no history of varicella infection should beimmunized against varicella by administration of two dosesof vaccine 4 to 8 weeks apart. Longer intervals betweendoses do not necessitate a third dose, but may leave theindividual unprotected during the intervening months.

D. All susceptible children aged 1 year to 18 years old who arein direct contact with people at high risk for varicella relatedcomplications (eg, immunocompromised individuals) andwho have not had a documented case of varicella.

Influenza Immunization

Indications for Influenza Vaccination

A. Targeted high-risk children and adolescents (eg, chronicpulmonary disease including asthma, sickle cell anemia,HIV infection).

B. Other high-risk children and adolescents (eg, diabetesmellitus, chronic renal disease, chronic metabolic disease).

C. Close contacts of high risk patients.

D. Foreign travel if exposure is likely.Vaccine Administration. Administer in the Fall, usually October1 - November 15, before the start of the influenza season.

Influenza Immunization Administration
Age Vaccine Type Dosage(mL) Number of Doses
6-35 months Split virusonly 0.25 1-2*
3-8 yrs Split virusonly 0.5 1-2*
9-12 yrs Split virusonly 0.5 1
> 12 yrs Whole or split virus 0.5 1
*Two doses administered at least one month apart are recommended for children who are receiving influenza vaccine forthe first time.

Pediatric Symptomatic Care

Antipyretics

Analgesics/Antipyretics:

-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 10-20 mg/kg/dose PO/PR q4-6h,max 5 doses/day or 80 mg/kg/day or 4 gm/day (whichever issmaller) OR

-Acetaminophen dose by age (if weight appropriate for age):

AGE: mg/dose PO/PR q4-6h prn:

0-3 mo 40 mg/dose 4-11 mo 80 mg/dose 1-2 yr 120 mg/dose 2-3 yr 160 mg/dose 4-5 yr 240 mg/dose 6-8 yr 320 mg/dose 9-10 yr 400 mg/dose 11-12 yr 480 mg/dose >12 yr 325-650 mg/dose

-Preparations: caplets: 160, 500 mg; caplet, ER: 650 mg; drops:80 mg/0.8 mL; elixir: 80 mg/2.5 mL, 80 mg/5 mL, 120 mg/5mL, 160 mg/5 mL, 325 mg/5 mL, 500 mg/15 mL; suppositories: 80, 120, 325, 650 mg; tabs: 325, 500 mg; tabs, chewable: 80, 120, 160 mg.

-Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, Nuprin, Medipren, Children's Motrin)Analgesic: 4-10 mg/kg/dose PO q6-8h prnAntipyretic: 5-10 mg/kg/dose PO q6-8h.

-Preparations: cap: 200 mg; caplet: 100 mg; oral drops: 40mg/mL; susp: 100 mg/5 mL; tabs: 100, 200, 300, 400, 600,800 mg; tabs, chewable: 50, 100 mg. May cause GI distress,bleeding.

Antitussives, Decongestants, Expectorants, and Antihistamines

Antihistamines:

-Brompheniramine (Dimetane) [elixir: 2 mg/5 mL; tab: 4, 8, 12mg; tab, SR: 8, 12 mg]< 6 yr: 0.5 mg/kg/day PO q6h prn (max 8 mg/day)6-11 yr: 2-4 mg PO q6-8h >12 yr: 4-8 mg PO q4-6h or 8 mg SR PO q8-12h or 12 mg

SR PO q12h (max 24 mg/day).

-Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton) [cap, SR: 8, 12 mg; syrup2mg/5mL; tabs: 4, 8, 12 mg; tab, chew: 2 mg; tab, SR: 8, 12mg]

2-5 yr: 1 mg PO q4-6h prn6-11 yr: 2 mg PO q4-6h prn > 12 yr: 4 mg PO q4-6h prn or 8-12 mg SR PO q8-12h

Antitussives (Pure) - Dextromethorphan:

-Benylin DM Cough Syrup [syrup: 10 mg/5mL] -Benylin Pediatric [syrup: 37.5mg/5mL] -Robitussin Pediatric [syrup: 7.5 mg/5mL] -Vick’s Formula 44 Pediatric Formula [syrup: 3 mg/5mL] 2-5 yr: 2.5-5 mg PO q4h prn or 7.5 mg PO q6-8h prn 6-11 yr 5-10 mg PO q4h prn or 15 mg PO q6-8h prn >12 yr: 10-20 mg PO q4h prn or 30 mg PO q6-8h prn.

Expectorants:

-Guaifenesin (Robitussin) [syrup: 100 mg/5 mL] <2 yr: 12 mg/kg/day PO q4-6h prn 2-5 yr: 50-100 mg PO q4h prn (max 600 mg/day) 6-11 yr: 100-200 mg PO q4h prn (max 1.2 gm/day)

>12 yr: 100-400 mg PO q4h prn (max 2.4 gm/day) May irritate gastric mucosa; take with large quantities of fluids.Decongestants:

-Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed, Novafed): [cap: 60 mg; cap, SR:120, 240 mg; drops: 7.5 mg/0.8 mL; syrup: 15 mg/5 mL,30 mg/5 mL; tabs: 30, 60 mg].<2 yr: 4 mg/kg/day PO q6h.2-5 yr: 15 mg po q6h6-11 yr: 30 mg po q6h>12 yr: 30-60 mg/dose PO q6h or sustained release 120mg PO q12h or sustained release 240 mg PO q24h.

-Phenylephrine (Neo-synephrine) [nasal drops: 1/4, 1/2, 1%;nasal spray: 1/4, 1/2, 1%].Children: Use 1/4 % spray or drops, 1-2 drops/spray ineach nostril q3-4h.

Adults: Use 1/4-1/2% drops/spray, 1-2 drops/sprays in eachnostril q3-4h Discontinue use after 3 days to avoid rebound congestion.

Combination Products:

-Actifed [per cap or tab or 10 mL syrup: Triprolidine 2.5 mg,Pseudoephedrine 60 mg].4 mth-2 yr: 1.25 mL PO q6-8h2-4 yr: 2.5 mL PO q6-8h4-6 yr: 3.75 mL PO q6-8h6-11y: 5 mL or ½ tab PO q6-8h >12 yr: 10 mL or 1 cap/tab PO q6-8h OR 4 mg pseudoephedrine/kg/day PO tid-qid

-Actifed with Codeine cough syrup [syrup/5 mL: Codeine 10mg, Triprolidine 1.25 mg, Pseudoephedrine 30 mg].4 mth-2 yr: 1.25 mL PO q6-8h2-4 yr: 2.5 mL PO q6-8h4-6 yr: 3.75 mL PO q6-8h6-11y: 5 mL PO q6-8h >12 yr: 10 mL PO q6-8h OR 4 mg pseudoephedrine/kg/day PO tid-qid.

-Dimetane Decongestant [cap/cplt or 10 mL: Brompheniramine4 mg, Phenylephrine 5 mg].6-11 yr: 5 mL or ½ cap/caplet PO q4-6h prn > 12 yr: 10 mL or 1 cap/caplet PO q4-6h prn

-Dimetane DX [syrup per 5 mL: Brompheniramine 2 mg,Dextromethorphan 10 mg, Pseudoephedrine 30 mg].2-5 yrs: 2.5 mL PO q4-6h prn6-11 yrs: 5 mL PO q4-6h prn > 12 yrs: 10 mL PO q4-6h prn

-PediaCare Cough-Cold Chewable Tablets: [tab, chew: Pseudoephedrine 15 mg, Chlorpheniramine 1 mg, Dextromethorphan 5 mg]. 3-5 yr: 1 tab PO q4-6h prn (max 4 tabs/day) 6-11 yr: 2 tabs PO q4-6h (max 8 tabs/day) >12 yr: 4 tabs PO q4-6h (max 16 tabs/day)

-PediaCare Cough-Cold Liquid [liquid per 5 mL: Pseudoephedrine 15 mg, Chlorpheniramine 1 mg, Dextromethorphan 5mg].3-5 yr: 5 mL PO q6-8h prn6-11 yr: 10 mL PO q6-8h prn >12 yr: 20 mL PO q6-8h prn

-PediaCare Night Rest Cough-Cold Liquid [liquid per 5 mL:Pseudoephedrine 15 mg, Chlorpheniramine 1 mg,Dextromethorphan 7.5 mg].3-5 yr: 5 mL PO q6-8h prn6-11 yr: 10 mL PO q6-8h prn >12 yr: 20 mL PO q6-8h prn

-Phenergan VC [syrup per 5 mL: Phenylephrine 5 mg, Promethazine 6.25 mg]. 2-5 yr: 1.25 mL PO q4-6h prn 6-11 yr: 2.5 mL PO q4-6h prn >12 yr: 5 mL PO q4-6h prn

-Phenergan VC with Codeine [per 5 mL: Promethazine 6.25mg, Codeine 10 mg, Phenylephrine 5 mg].2-5 yr: 1.25 mL PO q4-6h prn6-11 yr: 2.5 mL PO q4-6h prn >12 yr: 5 mL PO q4-6h prnAdults: 5-10 mL q4-6h prn (max 120 mg codeine per day)

-Phenergan with Codeine [syrup per 5 mL: Promethazine 6.25mg, Codeine 10 mg].2-5 yr: 1.25 mL PO q4-6h prn6-11 yr: 2.5 mL PO q4-6h prn >12 yr: 5 mL PO q4-6h prnAdults: 5-10 mL q4-6h prn (max 120 mg codeine per day)

-Phenergan with Dextromethorphan [syrup per 5 mL: Promethazine 6.25 mg, Dextromethorphan 15 mg].2-5 yr: 1.25 mL PO q4-6h prn6-11 yr: 2.5 mL PO q4-6h prn >12 yr: 5 mL PO q4-6h prn

-Robitussin AC [syrup per 5 mL: Guaifenesin 100 mg, Codeine10 mg].6 mos-2 yr: 1.25-2.5 mL PO q4h prn2-5 yrs: 2.5 mL PO q4h prn6-11 yrs: 5 mL PO q4h prn >12 yrs: 10 mL PO q4-6h prn.

-Robitussin-DAC [syrup per 5 mL: Codeine 10mg, Guaifenesin100 mg, Pseudoephedrine 30 mg].2-5 yrs: 1-1.5 mg/kg/day of codeine PO q4-6h prn (max 30mg/day)6-11 yrs: 5 mL PO q4-6h prn >12 yrs: 10 mL PO q4-6h prn

-Robitussin DM [syrup per 5 mL: Guaifenesin 100 mg, Dextromethorphan 10 mg]. 2-5 yr: 2.5 mL PO q4h prn, max 10 mL/day

6-11 yr: 5 mL PO q4h prn, max 20 mL/day >12 yr: 10 mL PO q4h prn, max 40 mL/day

-Robitussin Pediatric Cough and Cold [syrup per 5 mL:Dextromethorphan 7.5mg, Pseudoephedrine 15 mg].2-5 yr: 5 mL PO q4-6h prn6-11 yr: 10 mL PO q4-6h prn >12 yr: 15 mL po q4-6h prnMaximum four doses daily.

-Rondec drops [drops per 1 mL: Carbinoxamine maleate 2 mg,Pseudoephedrine 25 mg].4-5 mg pseudoephedrine/kg/day PO q6h prn OR 1-3 m: 1/4 dropperful (1/4 mL) PO q6h prn3-6 m: 1/2 dropperful (1/2 mL) PO q6h prn6-9 m: 3/4 dropperful (0.75 mL) PO q6h prn9-18 m: 1 dropperful (1 mL) PO q6h prn.

-Rondec syrup [syrup per 5 mL: Pseudoephedrine 60 mg,Carbinoxamine maleate 4 mg].4-5 mg pseudoephedrine/kg/day PO q6h prn.

-Rondec DM drops [drops per mL: Carbinoxamine maleate 2mg, Pseudoephedrine 25 mg, Dextromethorphan 4 mg].4-5 mg pseudoephedrine/kg/day PO q6h prn OR 1-3 m: 1/4 dropperful (1/4 mL) PO q6h prn3-6 m: 1/2 dropperful (1/2 mL) PO q6h prn6-9 m: 3/4 dropperful (0.75 mL) PO q6h prn9-18 m: 1 dropperful (1 mL) PO q6h prn.

-Rondec DM syrup [syrup per 5 mL: Carbinoxamine maleate 4mg, Pseudoephedrine 60 mg, Dextromethorphan 15 mg].4-5 mg pseudoephedrine/kg/day PO q6h prn.

-Ryna Liquid [liquid per 5 mL: Chlorpheniramine 2 mg; Pseudoephedrine 30 mg]. 6-11 yrs: 5 mL PO q6h prn >12 yr: 10 mL PO q6h prn

-Ryna-C [liquid per 5 mL: Chlorpheniramine 2mg, Codeine 10mg, Pseudoephedrine 30 mg].4-5 mg/kg/day of pseudoephedrine component PO q6h prn

-Ryna-CS [liquid per 5 mL: Codeine 10 mg, Guaifenesin 100mg, Pseudoephedrine 30 mg].4-5 mg pseudoephedrine/kg/day PO q6h prn

-Rynatan Pediatric [susp per 5 mL: Chlorpheniramine 2 mg,Phenylephrine 5 mg, Pyrilamine 12.5 mg].2-5 yr: 2.5-5 mL PO bid prn6-11 yr: 5-10 mL PO bid prn >12 yr: 10-15 mL PO bid prn

-Tylenol Cold Multi-Symptom Plus Cough Liquid, Children’s[liquid per 5 mL: Acetaminophen 160 mg,Chlorpheniramine 1 mg, Pseudoephedrine 15 mg].2-5 yr: 5 mL PO q4h prn6-11 yr: 10 mL PO q4h prn >12 yr: 20 mL po q4h prnMaximum four doses daily.

-Tylenol Cold Plus Cough Chewable Tablet, Children’s [tab,chew: Acetaminophen 80 mg, Chlorpheniramine 0.5 mg,Dextromethorphan 2.5 mg, Pseudoephedrine 7.5 mg].2-5 yr: 2 tabs PO q4h prn6-11 yr: 4 tabs PO q4h prn >12 yr: 4 tabs PO q4h prnMaximum four doses daily.

-Vick’s Children’s NyQuil Night-time Cough/Cold [liquid per 5mL: Chlorpheniramine 0.67 mg; Dextromethorphan 5 mg,Pseudoephedrine 10 mg].6-11 yr: 15 mL PO q6-8h prn >12 yr: 30 mL PO q6-8h prn

-Vicks Pediatric Formula 44D [liquid per 5 mL: Dextromethorphan 5 mg, Pseudoephedrine 10 mg]. 2-5 yr: 3.75 mL PO q6h prn 6-11 yr: 7.5 mL po q6h prn >12 yr: 15 mL PO q6h prn

-Vicks Pediatric Formula 44E [syrup per 5 mL: Dextromethorphan 3.3 mg, Guaifenesin 33.3 mg]. 2-5 yr: 5 mL PO q4h prn 6-11 yr: 10 mL PO q4h prn >12 yr: 15 mL po q4h prn

-Vick’s Pediatric Formula 44M Multi-Symptom Cough and ColdLiquid [liquid per 5 mL: Chlorpheniramine 0.67 mg,Dextromethorphan 5 mg, Pseudoephedrine 10 mg].2-5 yr: 7.5 mL PO q6h prn6-11 yr: 15 mL PO q6h prn >12 yr: 30 mL PO q6h prn

Analgesia and Sedation

Analgesics/Anesthetic Agents:

-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 10-15 mg/kg PO/PR q4-6h prn (seepage 39 for detailed list of available products)

-Acetaminophen/Codeine [per 5 mL: Acetaminophen 120 mg,Codeine 12 mg; tabs: Tylenol #2: 15 mg codeine/300 mgacetaminophen; #3: 30 mg codeine/300 mgacetaminophen; #4: 60 mg codeine/300 mgacetaminophen]0.5-1.0 mg codeine/kg/dose PO q4h prn.

-Acetaminophen/Hydrocodone [elixir per 5 mL: hydrocodone

2.5 mg, acetaminophen 167 mg]Tab: Lortab 2.5/500: Hydrocodone 2.5 mg, acetaminophen 500 mgLortab 5/500 and Vicodin: Hydrocodone 5 mg,acetaminophen 500 mgLortab 7.5/500: Hydrocodone 7.5 mg, acetaminophen 500 mgVicodin ES: Hydrocodone 7.5 mg, acetaminophen 750 mgLortab 10/500: Hydrocodone 10 mg, acetaminophen 500 mgLortab 10/650: Hydrocodone 10 mg, acetaminophen 650 mg

Children: 0.6 mg hydrocodone/kg/day PO q6-8h prn <2 yr: do not exceed 1.25 mg/dose 2-12 yr: do not exceed 5 mg/dose >12 yr: do not exceed 10 mg/dose

-ELAMax [lidocaine 4% cream (liposomal): 5, 30 gm]Apply 10-60 minutes prior to procedure. Occlusive dressing is optional. Available OTC.

-EMLA cream (eutectic mixture of local anesthetics) [ cream:2.5% lidocaine and 2.5% prilocaine: 5, 30 gm; transdermaldisc]. Apply and cover with occlusive dressing at least 1hour (max 4 hours) prior to procedure.

-Fentanyl 1-2 mcg/kg IV q1-2h prn or 1-3 mcg/kg/hr continuousIV infusion.

-Hydromorphone (Dilaudid) 0.015 mg/kg IV/IM/SC q3-4h or0.0075 mg/kg/hr continuous IV infusion titrated as necessary for pain relief or 0.03-0.08 mg/kg PO q6h prn.

-Ketamine 4 mg/kg IM or 0.5-1 mg/kg IV. Onset for IV administration is 30 seconds, duration is 5-15 minutes.

-Lidocaine, buffered: Add sodium bicarbonate 1 mEq/mL 1 partto 9 parts lidocaine 1% for local infiltration (eg, 2 mLlidocaine 1% and 0.22 mL sodium bicarbonate 1 mEq/mL)to raise the pH of the lidocaine to neutral and decreasethe “sting” of subcutaneous lidocaine.

-Meperidine (Demerol) 1 mg/kg IV/IM q2-3h prn pain.

-Morphine 0.05-0.1 mg/kg IV q2-4h prn or 0.02-0.06 mg/kg/hrcontinuous IV infusion or 0.1-0.15 mg/kg IM/SC q3-4h or0.2-0.5 mg/kg PO q4-6h.

Sedation: Fentanyl and Midazolam Sedation:

-Fentanyl 1 mcg/kg IV slowly, may repeat to total of 3 mcg/kg

AND

-Midazolam (Versed) 0.05-0.1 mg/kg slow IV [inj: 1 mg/mL, 5mg/mL].Have reversal agents available: naloxone 0.1 mg/kg (usualmax 2 mg) IM/IV for fentanyl reversal and flumazenil 0.01mg/kg (usual max 5 mg) IM/IV for midazolam reversal.

Benzodiazepines:

-Diazepam (Valium) 0.2-0.5 mg/kg/dose PO/PR or 0.05-0.2mg/kg/dose IM/IV, max 10 mg.-Lorazepam (Ativan) 0.05-0.1 mg/kg/dose IM/IV/PO, max 4 mg.

-Midazolam (Versed) 0.08-0.2 mg/kg/dose IM/IV over 10-20min, max 5 mg; or 0.2-0.4 mg/kg/dose PO x 1, max 15 mg,30-45 min prior to procedure; or 0.2 mg/kg intranasal(using 5 mg/mL injectable solution, insert into nares withneedleless tuberculin syringe.)

Phenothiazines:

-Promethazine (Phenergan) 0.5-1 mg/kg/dose IM or slow IVover 20 min, max 50 mg/dose.-Chlorpromazine (Thorazine) 0.5-1 mg/kg/dose IM or slow IVover 20min, max 50 mg/dose.

Antihistamines:

-Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 1 mg/kg/dose IV/IM/PO, max 50 mg.-Hydroxyzine (Vistaril) 0.5-1 mg/kg/dose IM/PO, max 50 mg.

Barbiturates:

-Methohexital (Brevital) IM: 5-10 mg/kg

IV: 1-2 mg/kg

PR: 25 mg/kg (max 500 mg/dose)-Thiopental (Pentothal): Sedation, rectal: 5-10 mg/kg; seizures,

IV: 2-3 mg/kg

Other Sedatives:

-Chloral hydrate 25-100 mg/kg/dose PO/PR (max 1.5 gm/dose), allow 30 min for absorption.

Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs:

-Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, Nuprin, Medipren, Children's Motrin)Anti-inflammatory: 30-50 mg/kg/day PO q6h, max 2400mg/day.[cap: 200 mg; caplet: 100 mg; oral drops: 40 mg/mL; susp:100 mg/5 mL; tabs: 100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 800 mg;tabs, chewable: 50, 100 mg].

-Ketorolac (Toradol)Single dose: 0.4-1 mg/kg IV/IM (max 30 mg/dose IV, 60mg/dose IM)Multiple doses: 0.4-0.5 mg/kg IV/IM q6h prn (max 30mg/dose) [inj: 15 mg/mL, 30 mg/mL]. Do not use for more than three days because of risk of GIbleed.

-Naproxen (Naprosyn)Analgesia: 5-7 mg/kg/dose PO q8-12hInflammatory disease: 10-15 mg/kg/day PO q12h, max1000 mg/day[susp: 125 mg/5mL; tab: 250, 375, 500 mg; tab, DR: 375,500 mg

-Naproxen sodium (Aleve, Anaprox, Naprelan)Analgesia: 5-7 mg/kg/dose PO q8-12hInflammatory disease: 10-15 mg/kg/day PO q12h, max1000 mg/day[tab: 220, 275, 550 mg; tab, ER: 375, 500, 750 mg].Naproxen sodium 220 mg = 200 mg base.

Antiemetics

-Chlorpromazine (Thorazine)0.25-1 mg/kg/dose slow IV over 20 min/IM/PO q4-8h prn,max 50 mg/dose [inj: 25 mg/mL,; oral concentrate 30 mg/mL; supp: 25,100mg; syrup: 10 mg/5 mL; tabs: 10, 25, 50, 100, 200 mg].

-Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 1 mg/kg/dose IM/IV/PO q6h prn, max 50 mg/dose [caps: 25, 50 mg; inj: 10 mg/mL, 50 mg/mL; liquid: 12.5 mg/5mL; tabs: 25, 50 mg].

-Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) >12 yrs: 5 mg/kg/day IM/IV/PO q6h prn, max 300 mg/dayNot recommended in <12y due to high incidence of extrapyramidal side effects. [cap: 50 mg; inj: 50 mg/mL; liquid 12.5 mg/4 mL; tab: 50 mg;tab, chew: 50mg].

-Prochlorperazine (Compazine) >12 yrs: 0.1-0.15 mg/kg/dose IM, max 10 mg/dose or 5-10 mg PO q6-8h, max 40 mg/day OR 5-25 mg PR q12h, max 50mg/dayNot recommended in <12y due to high incidence of extrapyramidal side effects [caps, SR: 10, 15, 30 mg; inj: 5 mg/mL; supp: 2.5, 5, 25 mg;syrup: 5 mg/5 mL; tabs: 5, 10, 25 mg].

-Promethazine (Phenergan) 0.25-1 mg/kg/dose PO/IM/IV over 20 min or PR q4-6h prn,max 50 mg/dose[inj: 25,50 mg/mL; supp: 12.5, 25, 50 mg;syrup 6.25 mg/5mL, 25 mg/5 mL; tabs: 12.5, 25, 50 mg].

-Trimethobenzamide (Tigan) 15 mg/kg/day IM/PO/PR q6-8h, max 100 mg/dose if <13.6 kgor 200 mg/dose if 13.6-41kg.[caps: 100, 250 mg; inj: 100 mg/mL; supp: 100, 200 mg].

Post-Operative Nausea and Vomiting:

-Ondansetron (Zofran) 0.1 mg/kg IV x 1, max 4 mg.-Droperidol (Inapsine) 0.01-0.05 mg/kg IV/IM q4-6h prn, max 5mg [inj: 2.5 mg/mL].

Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea:

-Dexamethasone 10 mg/m2/dose (max 20 mg) IV x 1, then 5 mg/m2/dose (max 10 mg) IV q6h prn[inj: 4 mg/mL, 10 mg/mL]

-Dronabinol (Marinol)5 mg/m2/dose PO 1-3 hrs prior to chemotherapy, then q4hprn afterwards. May titrate up in 2.5 mg/m2/dose increments to max of 15 mg/m2/dose. [cap: 2.5, 5, 10 mg]

-Granisetron (Kytril)10-20 mcg/kg IV given just prior to chemotherapy (singledose) [inj: 1 mg/mL]Adults (oral) 1 mg PO bid or 2 mg PO qd [tab: 1 mg]

-Metoclopramide (Reglan)0.5-1 mg/kg/dose IV q6h prn.Pretreatment with diphenhydramine 1 mg/kg IV is recommended to decrease the risk of extrapyramidal reactions.[inj: 5 mg/mL]

-Ondansetron (Zofran)

0.15 mg/kg/dose IV 30 minutes before chemotherapy andrepeated 4 hr and 8 hr later (total of 3 doses) OR

0.3 mg/kg/dose IV x 1 30 minutes before chemotherapy OR

0.45 mg/kg/day as a continuous IV infusion OR Oral:

<0.3 m2: 1 mg PO three times daily0.3-0.6 m2: 2 mg PO three times daily 0.6-1 m2: 3 mg PO three times daily >1 m2: 4 mg PO three times daily OR 4-11 yr: 4 mg PO three times daily>11 yr: 8 mg PO three times daily[inj: 2 mg/mL; oral soln: 4mg/5 mL; tab: 4, 8, 24 mg; tab,orally disintegrating: 4, 8 mg]

Cardiovascular Disorders

Pediatric Advanced Life Support

I. Cardiopulmonary assessmentA.Airway (A) assessment. The airway should be assessed and cleared.

B.Breathing (B) assessment determines the respiratory rate,respiratory effort, breath sounds (air entry) and skin color. Arespiratory rate of less than 10 or greater than 60 is a sign ofimpending respiratory failure.

C.Circulation (C) assessment should quantify the heart rateand pulse. In infants, chest compressions should be initiatedif the heart rate is less than 80 beats/minute (bpm). In children, chest compressions should be initiated if the heart rateis less than 60 bpm.

II. Respiratory failure

A.An open airway should be established. Bag-valve-maskventilation should be initiated if the respiratory rate is lessthan 10. Intubation is performed if prolonged ventilation isrequired. Matching the endotracheal tube to the size of thenares or fifth finger provides an estimate of tube size.

Intubation
Age ETT LaryngoscopeBlade NG Tube Size
Premature Newborn >2 kgInfant 12 mo 36 mo 6 yr10 yrAdolescent Adult 2.0-2.5 3.0-3.5 3.5-4.0 4.0-4.5 4.5-5.0 5.0-5.5 6.0-6.5 .0-7.5 7.5-8.0 0 1 1 1.5 2 2 2 3 3 8 10 10 12 12-14 14-16 16-18 18-20 20
Uncuffed ET tube in children <8 yrs.Straight laryngoscope blade if <6-10 yrs; curved blade if older.

B. Vascular access should be obtained. Gastric decompression with a nasogastric or oral gastric tube is necessary inendotracheally intubated children and in children receivingbag-valve-mask ventilation.

III. Shock

A. If the child is in shock, oxygen administration and monitoring are followed by initiation of vascular access.Crystalloid (normal saline or lactated Ringer's) solutionsare used for rapid fluid boluses of 20 mL/kg over less than20 minutes until the shock is resolved.

B. Shock secondary to traumatic blood loss may requireblood replacement if perfusion parameters have not normalized after a total of 40 to 60 mL/kg of crystalloid hasbeen administered.

C. Children in septic shock and cardiogenic shock shouldinitially receive crystalloid solution (boluses of 20 mL/kg).Epinephrine should be considered if septic or cardiogenicshock persists after intravenous volume has been repleted(repletion requires 40 to 60 mL/kg of crystalloid).

IV. Cardiopulmonary failure

A. Oxygen is delivered at a concentration of 100%.

B. Intubation and foreign body removal are completed. Ifsigns of shock persist, crystalloid replacement is initiatedwith boluses of 20 mL/kg over less than 20 minutes.Inotropic agents are added if indicated.

Inotropic Agents Used in Resuscitation of Children
Agent Intravenous dosage Indications
Epinephrine 0.1 to 1.0 µg/kg/minute (continuous infusion) Symptomatic bradycardia,shock (cardiogenic, septic,anaphylactic), hypotension
Dopamine 2 to 5 µg/kg/minute(continuous infusion)10 to 20 µg/kg/minute (continuous infusion) Low dose: improve renaland splanchnic blood flow High dose: useful in thetreatment of hypotensionand shock in the presenceof adequate intravascularvolume
Dobutamine 2 to 20 µg/kg/minute (continuous infusion) Normotensive cardiogenicshock

V. Dysrhythmias

A. Bradycardia

  1. Bradycardia is the most common dysrhythmia in children.Initial management is ventilation and oxygenation. Chestcompressions should be initiated if the heart rate is <60bpm in a child or <80 bpm in an infant.

  2. If these measures do not restore the heart rate, epinephrine is administered. Intravenous or intraosseous epinephrine is given in a dose of 0.1 mL/kg of the 1:10,000concentration (0.01 mg/kg). Endotracheal tube epinephrine is given as a dose of 0.1 mL/kg of the 1:1,000 concentration (0.1 mg/kg) diluted to a final volume of 3-5 mLin normal saline. This dose may be repeated every threeto five minutes.

  3. Atropine may be tried if multiple doses of epinephrine areunsuccessful. Atropine is given in a dose of 0.2 mL/kgIV/IO/ET of the 1:10,000 concentration (0.02 mg/kg. Theminimum dose is 0.1 mg; the maximum single dose is 0.5mg for a child and 1 mg for an adolescent. Endotrachealtube administration of atropine should be further dilutedto a final volume of 3-5 mL in normal saline.

  4. Pacing may be attempted if drug therapy has failed.

B. Asystole

  1. Epinephrine is the drug of choice for asystole. The initialdose of intravenous or intraosseous epinephrine is givenin a dose of 0.1 mL/kg of the 1:10,000 concentration ofepinephrine (0.01 mg/kg). Endotracheal tube administration of epinephrine is given as a dose of 0.1 mL/kg of the1:1,000 concentration of epinephrine (0.1 mg/kg), furtherdiluted to a final volume of 3-5 mL in normal saline.

  2. Subsequent doses of epinephrine are administered everythree to five minutes at 0.1 mL/kg IV/IO/ET of the 1:1,000concentration (0.1 mg/kg).

C. Supraventricular tachycardia

1. Supraventricular tachycardia presents with a heart rate>220 beats/minute in infants and >180 beats/minute inchildren. Supraventricular tachycardia is the most common dysrhythmia in the first year of life.

2. Stable children with no signs of respiratory compromise or shock and a normal blood pressure

a.
Initiate 100% oxygen and cardiac monitoring, andobtain pediatric cardiology consultation.
b.
Administer adenosine 0.1 mg/kg (max 6 mg) by rapidintravenous push. The dose of adenosine may bedoubled to 0.2 mg/kg (max 12 mg) and repeated ifsupraventricular tachycardia is not converted.
c.
Verapamil (Calan) may be used; however, it is contraindicated under one year; in congestive heart failure ormyocardial depression; in children receiving beta-adrenergic blockers; and in the presence of a possiblebypass tract (ie, Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome).Dose is 0.1-0.3 mg/kg/dose (max 5 mg) IV; may repeatdose in 30 minutes prn (max 10 mg).

3. Supraventricular tachycardia in unstable child withsigns of shock: Administer synchronized cardioversionat 0.5 joules (J)/kg. If supraventricular tachycardia persists, cardioversion is repeated at double the dose: 1.0J/kg.

D. Ventricular tachycardia with palpable pulse

  1. A palpable pulse with heart rate >120 bpm with a wideQRS (>0.08 seconds) is present. Initiate cardiac monitoring, administer oxygen and ventilate.

  2. If vascular access is available, administer a lidocaine bolus of 1 mg/kg; if successful, begin lidocaine infusion at20-50 µg/kg/minute.

  3. If ventricular tachycardia persists, perform synchronizedcardioversion using 0.5 J/kg.

  4. If ventricular tachycardia persists, repeat synchronizedcardioversion using 1.0 J/kg.

  5. If ventricular tachycardia persists, administer a lidocainebolus of 1.0 mg/kg, and begin lidocaine infusion at 20-50µg/kg/min.

  6. Repeat synchronized cardioversion as indicated.

E. Ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia

  1. Apply cardiac monitor, administer oxygen, and ventilate.

  2. Perform defibrillation using 2 J/kg. Do not delaydefibrillation.

  3. If ventricular fibrillation persists, perform defibrillationusing 4 J/kg.

  4. If ventricular fibrillation persists, perform defibrillationusing 4 J/kg.

  5. If ventricular fibrillation persists, perform intubation, continue CPR, and obtain vascular access. Administer epinephrine, 0.1 mL/kg of 1:10,000 IV or IO (0.01 mg/kg); or

0.1 mL/kg of 1:1000 ET (0.1 mg/kg).

  1. If ventricular fibrillation persists, perform defibrillationusing 4 J/kg.

  2. If ventricular fibrillation persists, administer lidocaine 1mg/kg IV or IO, or 2 mg/kg ET.

  3. If ventricular fibrillation persists, perform defibrillationusing 4 J/kg.

  4. If ventricular fibrillation persists, continue epinephrine, 0.1mg/kg IV/IO/ET, 0.1 mL/kg of 1:1,000; administer every 3to 5 minutes.

  5. If ventricular fibrillation persists, alternate defibrillation(4 J/kg) with lidocaine and epinephrine. Considerbretylium 5 mg/kg IV first dose, 10 mg/kg IV seconddose.

F. Pulseless electrical activity is uncommon in children. It usually occurs secondary to hypoxemia, hypovolemia, hypothermia, hypoglycemia, hyperkalemia, cardiac tamponade,tension pneumothorax, severe acidosis or drug overdose.Successful resuscitation depends on treatment of the underlying etiology.

  1. The initial dose of IV or IO epinephrine is given in a doseof 0.1 mL/kg of the 1:10,000 concentration (0.01 mg/kg).Endotracheal epinephrine is given as a dose of 0.1 mL/kgof the 1:1,000 concentration (0.1 mg/kg) diluted to a finalvolume of 3-5 mL in normal saline.

  2. Subsequent doses are administered every three to fiveminutes as 0.1 mL/kg of the 1:1,000 concentrationIV/IO/ET (0.1 mg/kg).

VI.Serum glucose concentration should be determined in all children undergoing resuscitation. Glucose replacement isprovided with 25% dextrose in water, 2 to 4 mL/kg (0.5 to 1g/kg) IV over 20 to 30 minutes for hypoglycemia. In neonates,10% dextrose in water, 5 to 10 mL/kg (0.5 to 1 g/kg), is recommended.

Congestive Heart Failure

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Congestive Heart Failure

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

  1. Nursing: Daily weights, inputs and outputs

  2. Diet: Low salt diet

  3. IV Fluids:

  4. Special Medications:

-Oxygen 2-4 L/min by NC.

-Furosemide (Lasix) 1 mg/kg/dose IV/IM/PO q6-12h prn, max80 mg PO, 40 mg IV; may increase to 2 mg/kg/doseIV/IM/PO [inj: 10 mg/mL; oral liquid: 10 mg/mL, 40 mg/5 mL; tabs: 20,40, 80 mg] OR

-Bumetanide (Bumex) 0.015-0.1 mg/kg PO/IV/IM q12-24h, max10 mg/day [ inj: 0.25 mg/mL; tabs: 0.5, 1, 2 mg].

Digoxin:

-Obtain a baseline ECG, serum electrolytes (potassium), andserum creatinine before administration.

Initial digitalization is given over 24 hours in three divideddoses: ½ total digitalizing dose (TDD) at time 0 hours, 1/4TDD at 8-12 hours, and 1/4 TDD 8-12 hours later.

Maintenance therapy is then started.

Total Digitalizing Dose PO IV

Premature infant 20-30 mcg/kg 10-30 mcg/kg Full term newborn (0-2 weeks) 30 mcg/kg 20-25 mcg/kg 2 wks-2 yr 40-50 mcg/kg 30-40 mcg/kg 2-10 yr 30-40 mcg/kg 25-30 mcg/kg >10 yr 0.75-1.5 mg 10 mcg/kg

(max 1 mg)

Maintenance digoxin dosePO IV

Preterm neonate 4-10 mcg/kg/day 4-9 mcg/kg/day Term neonate (0-2 wks) 6-10 mcg/kg/day 6-8 mcg/kg/day 2 weeks - 2 yr 10-12 mcg/kg/day 8-10 mcg/kg/day 2-10 yr 8-10 mcg/kg/day 6-8 mcg/kg/day >10 yr 5 mcg/kg/day 2-3 mcg/kg/day Adult 0.125-0.5 mg/day 0.1-0.4 mg/day

Divide bid if <10 yrs or qd if >10 yrs. [caps: 50, 100, 200 mcg; elixir: 50 mcg/mL; inj: 100 mcg/mL, 250 mcg/mL; tabs: 0.125, 0.25, 0.5 mg].

Other Agents:

-Dopamine (Intropin) 2-20 mcg/kg/min continuous IV infusion,titrate cardiac output and BP.-Dobutamine (Dobutrex) 2-20 mcg/kg/min continuous IV infusion, max of 40 mcg/kg/min.-Nitroglycerin 0.5 mcg/kg/min continuous IV infusion, mayincrease by 1 mcg/kg q20min; usual max 5 mcg/kg/min.

-Captopril (Capoten) Neonates: 0.05-0.1 mg/kg/dose PO q6-8hInfants: 0.15-0.3 mg/kg/dose PO q8h.Children: 0.5 mg/kg/dose PO q6-12h. Titrate as needed upto max of 6 mg/kg/day[tabs: 12.5, 25, 50,100 mg]. Tablets can be crushed and

made into extemporaneous suspension. -KCl 1-4 mEq/kg/day PO q6-24h.

  1. Extras and X-rays: CXR PA and LAT, ECG, echocardiogram.

  2. Labs: ABG, SMA 7, Mg, Ca, CBC, iron studies, digoxin level, UA.

Pulmonary Disorders

Asthma

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Exacerbation of asthma

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

6. Nursing: Pulse oximeter, measure peak flow rate in older patients.

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids: D5 1/4 NS or D5 ½ NS at maintenance rate.

  3. Special Medications:

-Oxygen humidified prn, 1-6 L/min by NC or 25-80% by mask,keep sat >92%.

Aerosolized and Nebulized Beta 2 Agonists:

-Albuterol (Ventolin) (using 0.5% = 5 mg/mL soln) nebulized 0.2-0.5 mL in 2 mL NS q1-4h and prn; may alsobe given by continuous aerosol.[soln for inhalation: 0.83 mg/3 mL unit dose; 5 mg/mL 20mL multidose bulk bottle]

-Albuterol (Ventolin, Proventil) 2 puffs q1-6h prn with spacerand mask. [capsule for inhalation (Rotacaps) using Rotahaler inhalation device: 200 mcg; MDI: 90 mcg/puff, 200 puffs/17 gm]

-Levalbuterol (Xopenex) 2-11 yrs: 0.16-1.25 mg nebulized >12 yrs: 0.63-1.25mg nebulized q6-8h[soln for inhalation: 0.63 mg/3 mL, 1.25 mg/3 mL].Levalbuterol 0.63 mg is comparable to albuterol 2.5 mg.

-Salmeterol (Serevent) > 4 yrs: 2 puffs bid. Not indicated foracute treatment. [Serevent Diskus: 50 mcg/puff; MDI: 21mcg/puff, 60 puffs/6.5gm or 120 puffs/13 gm]

-Formoterol (Foradil): >5 yrs: 12 mcg capsule aerosolizedusing dry powder inhaler bid. [capsule for aerosolization: 12mcg]

-Metaproterenol (Alupent, Metaprel)> 12 yrs: 2-3 puffs q3-4h prn, max 12 puffs/24 hrs. [MDI:

0.65 mg/puff]

-Racemic epinephrine (2.25% sln) 0.05 mL/kg/dose (max 0.5mL) in 2-3 mL saline nebulized q1-6h.

Intravenous Beta-2 Agonist:

-Terbutaline (Brethaire, Brethine, Bricanyl) Loading dose: 2-10 mcg/kg IVMaintenance continuous IV infusion: 0.08-6 mcg/kg/minMonitor heart rate and blood pressure closely.[inj: 1 mg/mL]

Corticosteroid (systemic) Pulse Therapy:

-Prednisolone 1-2 mg/kg/day PO q12-24h x 3-5 days [syrup: 5 mg/5 mL; Orapred 20.2 mg/5mL; Prelone 15 mg/5mL] OR

-Prednisone 1-2 mg/kg/day PO q12-24h x 3-5 days [oral solution: 1 mg/mL, 5 mg/mL; tabs: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 mg] OR

-Methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol) 2 mg/kg/dose IV/IM q6h x1-4 doses, then 0.5-1 mg/kg/dose IV/IM q6h x 3-5 days.

Aminophylline and theophylline:

-Therapeutic range 10-20 mcg/mL. Concomitant drugs (e.g.erythromycin or carbamazepine) may increase serumtheophylline levels by decreasing drug metabolism.

-Aminophylline loading dose 5-6 mg/kg total body weight IVover 20-30 min [1 mg/kg of aminophylline will raise serumlevel by 2 mcg/mL].

-Aminophylline maintenance as continuous IV infusion (basedon ideal body weight)1-6 mth: 0.5 mg/kg/hr6-12 mth: 0.6-0.75 mg/kg/hr1-10 yr: 1.0 mg/kg/hr10-16 yr: 0.75-0.9 mg/kg/hr>16 yr: 0.7 mg/kg/hr OR

-Theophylline PO maintenance 80% of total daily maintenance IV aminophylline dose in 2-4doses/day OR 1-6 mth: 9.6 mg/kg/day.6-12 mth: 11.5-14.4 mg/kg/day.1-10 yr: 19.2 mg/kg/day.10-16 yr: 14.4-17.3 mg/kg/day.>16 yr: 10 mg/kg/day.

-Give theophylline as sustained release theophylline preparation: q8-12h or liquid immediate release: q6h.-Slo-Phyllin Gyrocaps, may open caps and sprinkle on food[60, 125, 250 mg caps] q8-12h-Slobid Gyrocaps, may open caps and sprinkle on food [50, 75,

100, 125, 200, 300 mg caps] q8-12h-Theophylline oral liquid: 80 mg/15 mL, 10 mg/mL] q6-8h.-Theo-Dur [100, 200, 300, 450 mg tabs; scored, may cut in

half, but do not crush] q8-12h.

-Theophylline ProductsCap: 100, 200 mgCap, SR: 50, 60, 65, 75, 100, 125, 130, 200, 250, 260, 300 mgLiquid: 80 mg/15 mL, 10 mg/mLTab: 100, 125, 200, 250, 300 mgTab, SR: 50, 75, 100, 125, 130, 200, 250, 260, 300, 400, 450, 500 mg

Corticosteroid metered dose inhalers or nebulized solution:

-Beclomethasone (Beclovent, Vanceril) MDI 1-4 puffs bid-qidwith spacer and mask, followed by gargling with water. [42mcg/puff].

-Beclomethasone (Vanceril Double Strength) MDI 2 puffs bid

[84 mcg/puff]-Budesonide (Pulmicort Turbohaler) MDI 1-2 puffs bid [200mcg/puff]-Budesonide (Pulmicort) 0.25-0.5 mg nebulized bid [0.25

mg/2mL, 0.5 mg/2mL] -Flunisolide (Aerobid) MDI 2-4 puffs bid [250 mcg/puff] -Fluticasone (Flovent) MDI 1-2 puffs bid [44, 110, 220

mcg/actuation]-Triamcinolone (Azmacort) MDI 1-4 puffs bid-qid [100 mcg/puff]

Cromolyn/nedocromil:

-Cromolyn sodium (Intal) MDI 2-4 puffs qid [800 mcg/puff] ornebulized 20 mg bid-qid [10 mg/mL 2 mL unit dose ampules]

-Nedocromil (Tilade) MDI 2 puffs bid-qid [1.75 mg/puff]

Oral beta-2 agonists:

-Albuterol (Proventil) 2-6 years: 0.1-0.2 mg/kg/dose PO q6-8h6-12 years: 2 mg PO tid-qid>12 years: 2-4 mg PO tid-qid or 4-8 mg ER tab PO bid [soln: 2 mg/5 mL; tab: 2, 4 mg; tab, ER: 4, 8 mg]

-Metaproterenol (Alupent, Metaprel) < 2 yrs: 0.4 mg/kg/dose PO tid-qid 2-6 yrs: 1.3-2.6 mg PO q6-8h 6-9 yrs: 10 mg PO q6-8h [syrup: 10 mg/5mL; tabs: 10, 20 mg]

Leukotriene receptor antagonists:

-Montelukast (Singulair) 2-5 yr: 4 mg PO qPM 6-14 yr: 5 mg PO qPM > 14 yr: 10 mg PO qPM [tab: 10 mg; tab, chew : 4, 5 mg]

-Zafirlukast (Accolate) 7-11 yr: 10 mg PO bid >12 yr: 20 mg PO bid [tabs: 10, 20 mg]

-Zileuton (Zyflo) >12 yr: 600 mg PO qid (with meals and at bedtime) [tab: 600 mg]

  1. Extras and X-rays: CXR, pulmonary function test, peak flow rates.

  2. Labs: CBC, CBG/ABG. Urine antigen screen, UA,theophylline level.

Allergic Rhinitis and Conjunctivitis

Antihistamines:

-Astemizole (Hismanal):6-12 yr: 5 mg/day PO qd>12 yr: 10 mg PO qd[tab: 10 mg].

-Loratadine (Claritin) >3 yrs and < 30 kg: 5 mg PO qd>30 kg: 10 mg PO qd.[syrup: 1mg/mL; tab: 10 mg; tab, rapidly disintegrating: 10 mg]

-Cetirizine (Zyrtec)12 y: 5-10 mg qd6-11 y: 5-10 mg qd [tabs: 5, 10 mg Syrup: 5 mg/5 mL]

-Fexofenadine (Allegra), 12 y: 60 mg bid [60 mg]

-Actifed [per cap or tab or 10 mL syrup: triprolidine 2.5 mg,pseudoephedrine 60 mg]4 mg pseudoephedrine/kg/day PO tid-qid OR 4 m-2 yr: 1.25 mL PO q6-8h2-4 yr: 2.5 mL PO q6-8h4-6 yr: 3.75 mL PO q6-8h6-11y: 5 mL or ½ tab PO q6-8h>12 yr: 10 mL or 1 cap/tab PO q6-8h.

-Chlorpheniramine maleate (Chlor-Trimeton):

0.35 mg/kg/day PO q4-6h OR 2-5 yr: 1 mg PO q4-6h (max 4 mg/day) 6-11y: 2 mg PO q4-6h (max 12 mg/day) >12y: 4 mg PO q4-6h or 8-12 mg SR q8-12h (max 24 mg/day). [cap, SR: 8,12 mg; soln: 2 mg/5 mL; tab: 4, 8, 12 mg; tab, chew: 2 mg; tab, SR: 8, 12 mg]

-Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 1 mg/kg/dose PO q6h prn, max 50 mg/dose [elixir/liquid: 12.5 mg/5 mL; tab, cap: 25, 50 mg].

Intranasal Therapy:

-Azelastine (Astelin)3-12 yr: 1 spray in each nostril bid> 12 yr: 2 sprays in each nostril bid[nasal soln: 1 mg/mL, 17 mL (137 mcg/spray)]

-Beclomethasone (Beconase, Vancenase) 6-11 yrs: 1 spray into each nostril tid >12 yrs: 1 spray into each nostril bid-qid[42 mcg/actuation]

-Beclomethasone aqueous (Beconase AQ) 6-11 yrs: 1-2 sprays into each nostril bid >12 yrs: 1-2 sprays into each nostril bid[42 mcg/actuation]

-Beclomethasone Double Strength (Vancenase AQ) 6-11 yrs: 1-2 puffs into each nostril qd >12 yrs: 1-2 sprays into each nostril qd[84 mcg/actuation]

-Budesonide (Rhinocort)6-11 yrs: 2 sprays into each nostril bid or 4 sprays into eachnostril qAM >12 yrs: 2 sprays into each nostril bid or 4 sprays into eachnostril qAM[32 mcg/actuation]

-Budesonide aqueous(Rhinocort AQ)6-11 yrs: 1-2 sprays into each nostril bid >12 yrs: 1 sprays into each nostril qd, may increase up to 4sprays into each nostril qAM[32 mcg/actuation]

-Cromolyn (Nasalcrom) 1 puff into each nostril q3-4h [40 mg/mL 13 mL].

-Flunisolide (Nasalide, Nasarel) 6-11 yrs: 1 spray into each nostril tid or 2 sprays into each nostril bid >12 yrs: 2 sprays into each nostril bid-tid [25 mcg/actuation].

-Fluticasone (Flonase) 4-6 yrs: 1-2 sprays into each nostril qd 6-11 yrs: 1-2 sprays into each nostril qd > 12 yrs: 1 spray into each nostril bid or 2 sprays into each nostril qd [50 mcg/actuation]

-Mometasone (Nasonex) 4-6 yrs: 1 spray into each nostril qd 6-11 yrs: 1 spray into each nostril qd >12 yrs: 2 sprays into each nostril qd [50 mcg/actuation]

-Triamcinolone (Nasacort) 6-11 yr: 2 sprays into each nostril qd >12 yr: 2 sprays into each nostril qd. [55 mcg/actuation]

-Triamcinolone aqueous (Nasacort AQ) 6-11 yr: 2 spray into each nostril qd >12 yr: 2 sprays into each nostril qd. [55 mcg/actuation]

Allergic Conjunctivitis Therapy:

-Azelastine (Optivar) >3 yr: instill 1 drop into affected eye(s) bid [ophth soln: 0.05% 6 mL]

-Cromolyn ophthalmic (Crolom, Opticrom) Instill 2 drops into each affected eye(s) q4-6h [ophth soln: 4% 2.5, 10 mL].Decongestants:

-Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed, Novafed) <12 yr: 4 mg/kg/day PO q6h. >12 yr and adults: 30-60 mg/dose PO q6-8h or sustained release 120 mg PO q12h or sustained release 240 mg PO q24h

[cap/cplt, SR: 120, 240 mg; drops: 7.5 mg/0.8mL; syrup: 15mg/5mL, 30 mg/5mL; tabs: 30, 60 mg].

Infectious Diseases

Suspected Sepsis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Suspected sepsis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

6. Nursing: Inputs and outputs, daily weights, cooling measuresprn temp >38EC, consent for lumbar puncture.

7. Diet:

8. IV Fluids: Correct hypovolemia if present; NS 10-20 mL/kg IVbolus, then IV fluids at 1-1.5 times maintenance.

9. Special Medications: Term newborns <1 month old (Group B strep, E coli, Group D strep, gram negatives, Listeria monocytogenes): Ampicillin and gentamicin or cefotaxime.

-Ampicillin IV/IM: <7d: 150 mg/kg/day q8h; >7d: 200 mg/kg/dayq6h.-Cefotaxime (Claforan) IV/IM: <7 days: 100 mg/kg/day q12h;

>7 days: 150 mg/kg/day q8h. -Gentamicin (Garamycin) IV/IM: 5 mg/kg/day q12h. -Also see page 72.

Infant 1-2 months old (H. flu, strep pneumonia, N

meningitidis, Group B strep):-Ampicillin 100 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6h AND EITHER -Cefotaxime (Claforan) 100 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6h OR -Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 50-75 mg/kg/day IV/IM q12-24h OR -Gentamicin (Garamycin) 7.5 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h

Children 2 months to 18 years old (S pneumonia, H flu, N.meningitidis):

-Cefotaxime (Claforan) 100 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6h, max 12gm/day OR -Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 50-75 mg/kg/day IV/IM q 12-24h, max4 gm/day.

Immunocompromised Patients (Gram negative bacilli, Pseudomonas, Staph, Strep viridans):

-Ticarcillin (Ticar) 200-300 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6h, max 24 gm/day -Ticarcillin/clavulanate (Timentin) 200-300 mg/kg/day of

ticarcillin IV/IM q6-8h, max 24gm/day OR -Piperacillin (Pipracil) 200-300 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6h, max 24gm/day OR -Piperacillin/tazobactam (Zosyn) 240 mg/kg/day of piperacillinIV/IM q6-8h, max 12 gm/day OR -Ceftazidime (Fortaz) 100-150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h, max 12gm/day AND

-Tobramycin (Nebcin) or Gentamicin (Garamycin) (normalrenal function):<5 yr (except neonates): 7.5 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h.5-10 yr: 6.0 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h.>10 yr: 5.0 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h AND (if gram positive infection strongly suspected)

-Vancomycin (Vancocin) (central line infection) 40-60 mg/kg/day IV q6-8h, max 4 gm/day

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Ibuprofen (Advil) 5-10 mg/kg/dose PO q6h-8h prn temp >38EC

OR

-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 10-15 mg/kg PO/PR q4-6h prn temp>38EC or pain.

11. Extras and X-rays: CXR.

12. Labs: CBC, SMA 7. Blood culture and sensitivity x 2. UA,urine culture and sensitivity; antibiotic levels. Stool for Wrightstain if diarrhea. Nasopharyngeal washings for direct fluorescent antibody (RSV, chlamydia).CSF Tube 1 - Gram stain, culture and sensitivity for bacteria,

antigen screen (1-2 mL).CSF Tube 2 - Glucose, protein (1-2 mL). CSF Tube 3 - Cell count and differential (1-2 mL).

Meningitis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Meningitis.

  3. Condition: Guarded.

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

  1. Nursing: Strict isolation precautions. Inputs and outputs, dailyweights; cooling measures prn temp >38EC; consent for lumbar puncture. Monitor for signs of increased intracranial pressure.

  2. Diet:

  3. IV Fluids: Isotonic fluids at maintenance rate.

9. Special Medications: Term Newborns <1 months old (Group B strep, E coli, gram negatives, Listeria):

-Ampicillin, 0-7 d: 150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h; >7d: 200mg/kg/day IV/IM q6h AND -Cefotaxime (Claforan): <7d: 100 mg/kg/day IV/IM q12h; >7days: 150 mg/kg/day q8h IV/IM.

Infants 1-3 months old (H. flu, strep pneumonia, N.Meningitidis, group B strep, E coli):-Cefotaxime (Claforan) 200 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6h OR -Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 100 mg/kg/day IV/IM q12-24h AND -Vancomycin (Vancocin) 40-60 mg/kg/day IV q6h.-Dexamethasone 0.6 mg/kg/day IV q6h x 4 days. Initiate before

or with the first dose of parenteral antibiotic.

Children 3 months to 18 years old (S pneumonia, H flu, N.meningitidis):

-Cefotaxime (Claforan) 200 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6h, max 12gm/day or ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 100 mg/kg/day IV/IM q1224h, max 4 gm/day AND

-Vancomycin (Vancocin) 60 mg/kg/day IV q6h, max 4gm/day.-Dexamethasone 0.6 mg/kg/day IV q6h x 4 days. Initiate beforeor with the first dose of parenteral antibiotic.

10. Symptomatic Medications:-Ibuprofen (Advil) 5-10 mg/kg/dose PO q6-8h prn OR -Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 15 mg/kg PO/PR q4h prn temp

>38EC or pain.

11. Extras and X-rays: CXR, MRI.

12. Labs: CBC, SMA 7. Blood culture and sensitivity x 2. UA,urine culture and sensitivity; urine specific gravity. Antibioticlevels. Urine and blood antigen testing.

Lumbar Puncture: CSF Tube 1 - Gram stain, culture and sensitivity, bacterial anti

gen screen (1-2 mL).CSF Tube 2 - Glucose, protein (1-2 mL). CSF Tube 3 - Cell count and differential (1-2 mL).

Pneumonia

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Pneumonia

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

6. Nursing: Pulse oximeter, inputs and outputs. Bronchial clearance techniques, vibrating vest.

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids:

  3. Special Medications:

-Humidified O2 by NC at 2-4 L/min or 25-100% by mask, adjust tokeep saturation >92%

Term Neonates <1 month: -Ampicillin 100 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6h AND -Cefotaxime (Claforan) <1 wk: 100 mg/kg/day IV/IM q12h; >1 wk:

150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h OR -Gentamicin (Garamycin) 5 mg/kg/day IV/IM q12h.

Children 1 month-5 years old: -Cefuroxime (Zinacef) 100-150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h OR -Ampicillin 100 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6h AND -Gentamicin (Garamycin) or Tobramycin (Nebcin):

7.5 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h (normal renal function).

-If chlamydia is strongly suspected, add erythromycin 40mg/kg/day IV q6h.

Oral Therapy:

-Cefuroxime axetil (Ceftin)tab: child: 125-250 mg PO bid; adult: 250-500 mg PO bid susp: 30 mg/kg/day PO q12h, max 1000 mg/day[susp: 125 mg/5 mL; tabs: 125, 250,500 mg] OR

-Loracarbef (Lorabid) 30 mg/kg/day PO q12h, max 800 mg/day[cap: 200, 400 mg; susp: 100 mg/5 mL, 200 mg/5mL]

-Cefpodoxime (Vantin)10 mg/kg/day PO q12h, max 800 mg/day[susp: 50 mg/5 mL, 100 mg/5 mL; tabs: 100, 200 mg]

-Cefprozil (Cefzil) 30 mg/kg/day PO q12h, max 1000 mg/day[susp: 125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL; tabs: 250, 500 mg].

-Cefixime (Suprax) 8 mg/kg/day PO qd-bid, max 400 mg/day[susp: 100 mg/5 mL; tabs: 200, 400 mg].

-Clarithromycin (Biaxin) 15-30 mg/kg/day PO bid, max 1000 mg/day[susp: 125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL; tabs: 250, 500 mg].

-Azithromycin (Zithromax) Children >2 yrs: 12 mg/kg/day PO qd x 5 days, max 500 mg/day >16 yrs: 500 mg PO on day 1, 250 mg PO qd on days 2-5[cap: 250 mg; susp: 100 mg/5mL, 200 mg/5mL; tabs: 250, 600mg]

-Amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin) 30-40 mg/kg/day of amoxicillin PO q8h , max 500 mg/dose [elixir 125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL; tabs: 250, 500 mg; tabs,

chew: 125, 250 mg;]

-Amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin BID)30-40 mg/kg/day PO q12h, max 875 mg (amoxicillin)/dose[susp 200 mg/5 mL, 400 mg/5 mL; tab: 875 mg; tabs, chew:200, 400 mg]

Community Acquired Pneumonia 5-18 years old (viral,Mycoplasma pneumoniae, chlamydia pneumoniae,pneumococcus, legionella):

-Cefuroxime (Zinacef) 100-150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h, max 9gm/day OR -Erythromycin estolate (Ilosone) 30-50 mg/kg/day PO q8-12h,max 2 gm/day

[caps: 125, 250 mg; drops: 100 mg/mL; susp: 125 mg/5 mL,250 mg/5 mL; tab: 500 mg; tabs, chew: 125,250 mg]

-Erythromycin ethylsuccinate (EryPed, EES)30-50 mg/kg/day PO q6-8h, max 2gm/day[susp: 200 mg/5 mL, 400 mg/5 mL; tab: 400 mg; tab, chew:200 mg]

-Erythromycin base (E-mycin, Ery-Tab, Eryc)30-50 mg/kg/day PO q6-8h, max 2gm/day[cap, DR: 250 mg; tabs: 250, 333, 500 mg]

-Erythromycin lactobionate 20-40 mg/kg/day IV q6h, max 4 gm/day[inj: 500 mg, 1 gm]

-Clarithromycin (Biaxin) 15-30 mg/kg/day PO bid, max 1000 mg/day[susp: 125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL; tabs: 250, 500 mg].

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 10-15 mg/kg PO/PR q4h prn temp>38EC or pain.

11. Extras and X-rays: CXR PA and LAT, PPD.

12. Labs: CBC, ABG, blood culture and sensitivity x 2. Sputumgram stain, culture and sensitivity, AFB. Antibiotic levels. Nasopharyngeal washings for direct fluorescent antibody (RSV,adenovirus, parainfluenza, influenza virus, chlamydia) andcultures for respiratory viruses. UA.

Specific Therapy for Pneumonia

Pneumococcal pneumonia:

-Erythromycin estolate (Ilosone)30-50 mg/kg/day PO q8-12h, max 2 gm/day[caps: 125, 250 mg; drops: 100 mg/mL; susp: 125 mg/5 mL,250 mg/5 mL; tab: 500 mg; tabs, chew: 125,250 mg]

-Erythromycin ethylsuccinate (EryPed, EES)30-50 mg/kg/day PO q6-8h, max 2gm/day[susp: 200 mg/5 mL, 400 mg/5 mL; tab: 400 mg; tab, chew:200 mg]

-Erythromycin base (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, Eryc) 30-50 mg/kg/day PO q6-8h, max 2gm/day[tab: 250, 333, 500 mg]

-Erythromycin lactobionate 20-40 mg/kg/day IV q6h, max 4 gm/day[inj: 500 mg, 1 g m] OR

-Vancomycin (Vancocin) 40 mg/kg/day IV q6h, max 4 gm/day OR -Cefotaxime (Claforan) 100-150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6h, max 12gm/day OR -Penicillin G 150,000 U/kg/day IV/IM q4-6h, max 24 MU/day.

Staphylococcus aureus:

-Oxacillin (Bactocill, Prostaphlin) or Nafcillin (Nafcil) 150-200mg/kg/day IV/IM q4-6h, max 12 gm/day OR -Vancomycin (Vancocin) 40 mg/kg/day IV q6h, max 4 gm/day

Haemophilus influenzae (<5 yr of age):

-Cefotaxime (Claforan) 100-150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h, max 12gm/day OR -Cefuroxime (Zinacef) 100-150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h (beta-lactamase pos), max 9 gm/day OR -Ampicillin 100-200 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6h (beta-lactamase negative), max 12 gm/day

Pseudomonas aeruginosa:

-Tobramycin (Nebcin):<5 yr (except neonates): 7.5 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h.5-10 yr: 6.0 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h.>10 yr: 5.0 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h AND

-Piperacillin (Pipracil) or ticarcillin (Ticar) 200-300 mg/kg/dayIV/IM q4-6h, max 24 gm/day OR -Ceftazidime (Fortaz) 150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h, max 12 gm/day.

Mycoplasma pneumoniae:

-Clarithromycin (Biaxin) 15-30 mg/kg/day PO q12h, max 1 gm/day[susp: 125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL; tabs: 250, 500 mg].

-Erythromycin estolate (Ilosone)30-50 mg/kg/day PO q8-12h, max 2 gm/day[caps: 125, 250 mg; drops: 100 mg/mL; susp: 125 mg/5 mL,250 mg/5 mL; tab: 500 mg; tabs, chew: 125,250 mg]

-Erythromycin ethylsuccinate (EryPed, EES)30-50 mg/kg/day PO q6-8h, max 2gm/day[susp: 200 mg/5 mL, 400 mg/5 mL; tab: 400 mg; tab, chew:200 mg]

-Erythromycin base (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, Eryc) 30-50 mg/kg/day PO q6-8h, max 2gm/day[cap, DR: 250 mg; tabs: 250, 333, 500 mg]

-Erythromycin lactobionate (Erythrocin)20-40 mg/kg/day IV q6h, max 4 gm/day[inj: 500 mg, 1 gm]

-Tetracycline (Achromycin)

>8 yrs only

25-50 mg/kg/day PO q6h, max 2 gm/day[caps: 100, 250, 500 mg; susp: 125 mg/5 mL; tabs: 250, 500mg]

Moraxella catarrhalis:

-Clarithromycin (Biaxin) 15 mg/kg/day PO q12h, max 1 gm/day[susp: 125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL; tabs: 250, 500 mg] OR

-Cefuroxime (Zinacef) 100-150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h, max 9gm/day OR

-Erythromycin estolate (Ilosone)30-50 mg/kg/day PO q8-12h, max 2 gm/day[caps: 125, 250 mg; drops: 100 mg/mL; susp: 125 mg/5 mL,250 mg/5 mL; tab: 500 mg; tabs, chew: 125,250 mg]

-Erythromycin ethylsuccinate (EryPed, EES)30-50 mg/kg/day PO q6-8h, max 2gm/day[susp: 200 mg/5 mL, 400 mg/5 mL; tab: 400 mg; tab, chew:200 mg]

-Erythromycin base (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, Eryc) 30-50 mg/kg/day PO q6-8h, max 2gm/day[cap, DR: 250 mg; tabs: 250, 333, 500 mg]

-Erythromycin lactobionate (Erythrocin) 20-40 mg/kg/day IV q6h, max 4 gm/day[inj: 500 mg, 1 gm] OR

-Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra) 6-12 mg TMP/kg/day PO/IV q12h, max 320 mg TMP/day[inj per mL: TMP 16 mg/SMX 80 mg; susp per 5 mL: TMP 40mg/SMX 200 mg; tab DS: TMP 160 mg/SMX 800 mg; tab SS:TMP 80mg/SMX 400 mg]

Chlamydia pneumoniae (TWAR), psittaci, trachomatous:

-Erythromycin estolate (Ilosone)30-50 mg/kg/day PO q8-12h, max 2 gm/day[caps: 125, 250 mg; drops: 100 mg/mL; susp: 125 mg/5 mL,250 mg/5 mL; tab: 500 mg; tabs, chew: 125,250 mg]

-Erythromycin ethylsuccinate (EryPed, EES)30-50 mg/kg/day PO q6-8h, max 2gm/day[susp: 200 mg/5 mL, 400 mg/5 mL; tab: 400 mg; tab, chew:200 mg]

-Erythromycin base (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, Eryc) 30-50 mg/kg/day PO q6-8h, max 2gm/day[cap, DR: 250 mg; tabs: 250, 333, 500 mg]

-Erythromycin lactobionate (Erythrocin) 20-40 mg/kg/day IV q6h, max 4 gm/day[inj: 500 mg, 1 gm ] OR

-Azithromycin (Zithromax) children >2 yrs: 12 mg/kg/day PO qd x 5 days, max 500 mg/day >16 yrs: 500 mg PO on day one, then 250 mg PO qd on days2-5 [cap: 250 mg; susp: 100 mg/5mL, 200 mg/5mL; tabs: 250, 600mg]

Influenza Virus:

-Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) >1 yr and <15 kg: 30 mg PO bid15-23 kg: 45 mg PO bid>23 - 40 kg: 60 mg PO bid>40 kg: 75 mg PO bid>18 yr: 75 mg PO bid[cap: 75 mg; susp: 12 mg/mL]Approved for treatment of uncomplicated influenza A or Bwhen patient has been symptomatic no longer than 48 hrs. OR

-Rimantadine (Flumadine) <10 yr: 5 mg/kg/day PO qd, max 150 mg/day>10 yr: 100 mg PO bid [syrup: 50 mg/5 mL; tab: 100 mg].Approved for treatment or prophylaxis of Influenza A. Noteffective against Influenza B. OR

-Amantadine (Symmetrel) 1-9 yr: 5 mg/kg/day PO qd-bid, max 150 mg/day>9 yr: 5 mg/kg/day PO qd-bid, max 200 mg/day[cap: 100 mg; syr: 50 mg/5 mL].Approved for treatment or prophylaxis of Influenza A. Noteffective against Influenza B.

Bronchiolitis

1. Admit to:

2. Diagnosis: Bronchiolitis

  1. Condition:

  2. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  3. Activity:

6. Nursing: Pulse oximeter, peak flow rate. Respiratory isolation.

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids:

  3. Special Medications:

-Oxygen, humidified 1-4 L/min by NC or 40-60% by mask, keepsat >92%.

Nebulized Beta 2 Agonists:

-Albuterol (Ventolin, Proventil) (5 mg/mL sln) nebulized 0.2-0.5mL in 2 mL NS (0.10-0.15 mg/kg) q1-4h prn.

Treatment of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (severe lung disease or underlying cardiopulmonary disease):

-Ribavirin (Virazole) therapy should be considered in high riskchildren <2 yrs with chronic lung disease or with history ofpremature birth less than 35 weeks gestational age. Ribavirinis administered as a 6 gm vial, aerosolized by SPAG nebulizerover 18-20h qd x 3-5 days or 2 gm over 2 hrs q8h x 3-5 days.

Prophylaxis Against Respiratory Syncytial Virus:

-Recommended use in high risk children <2 yrs with BPD whorequired medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) management within the past six months, orwith history of premature birth less than or equal to 28 weeksgestational age who are less than one year of age at start ofRSV season, or with history of premature birth 29-32 weeksgestational age who are less than six months of age at start ofRSV season.

-Palivizumab (Synagis) 15 mg/kg IM once a month throughoutRSV season (usually October-March)-RSV-IVIG (RespiGam) 750 mg/kg IV once a month throughoutRSV season (usually from October to March).Influenza A:

-Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) >1 yr and <15 kg: 30 mg PO bid15-23 kg: 45 mg PO bid>23 - 40 kg: 60 mg PO bid>40 kg: 75 mg PO bid>18 yr: 75 mg PO bid[cap: 75 mg; susp: 12 mg/mL]Approved for treatment of uncomplicated influenza A or Bwhen patient has been symptomatic no longer than 48 hrs. OR

-Rimantadine (Flumadine) <10 yr: 5 mg/kg/day PO qd, max 150 mg/day>10 yr: 100 mg PO bid [syrup: 50 mg/5 mL; tab: 100 mg].

Approved for treatment or prophylaxis of Influenza A. Not effective against Influenza B. OR

-Amantadine (Symmetrel) 1-9 yr: 5 mg/kg/day PO qd-bid, max 150 mg/day>9 yr: 5 mg/kg/day PO qd-bid, max 200 mg/day[cap: 100 mg; syr: 50 mg/5 mL].Approved for treatment or prophylaxis of Influenza A. Noteffective against Influenza B.

Oral Beta 2 Agonists and Acetaminophen:

-Albuterol liquid (Proventil, Ventolin)2-6 years: 0.1-0.2 mg/kg/dose PO q6-8h6-12 years: 2 mg PO tid-qid>12 years: 2-4 mg PO tid-qid [soln: 2 mg/5 mL; tabs: 2,4 mg; tabs, SR: 4, 8 mg]

-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 10-15 mg/kg PO/PR q4-6h prn temp>38E.

10. Extras and X-rays: CXR.

11. Labs: CBC, SMA 7, CBG/ABG, UA. Urine antigen screen.Nasopharyngeal washings for direct fluorescent antibody (RSV,adenovirus, parainfluenza, influenza virus, chlamydia), viralculture.

Viral Laryngotracheitis (Croup)

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Croup

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

6. Nursing: Pulse oximeter, laryngoscope and endotracheal tubeat bedside. Respiratory isolation, inputs and outputs.

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids:

  3. Special Medications:

-Oxygen, cool mist, 1-2 L/min by NC or 40-60% by mask, keepsat >92%. -Racemic epinephrine (2.25% sln) 0.05 mL/kg/dose (max 0.5mL) in 2-3 mL saline nebulized q1-6h.-Dexamethasone (Decadron) 0.25-0.5 mg/kg/dose IM/IV q6hprn, max dose 10 mg OR -Prednisone 1-2 mg/kg/day PO q12-24h x 3-5 days [syr:1mg/mL, 5 mg/mL;tabs: 1, 2.5, 5, 10, 20, 50 mg]-Prednisolone 1-2 mg/kg/day PO q12-24h x 3-5 days [5 mg/5mL, Orapred 20.2mg/5mL, Prelone 15 mg/5 mL].

  1. Extras and X-rays: CXR PA and LAT, posteroanterior x-ray of neck.

  2. Labs: CBC, CBG/ABG, blood culture and sensitivity; UA,culture and sensitivity. Urine antigen screen.

Varicella Zoster Infections

Immunocompetent Patient

A. Therapy with oral acyclovir is not recommended routinely forthe treatment of uncomplicated varicella in the otherwisehealth(Buy now from <a href="http://www.drugswell.com/wow/index.php">http://www.drugswell.com</a>)y child <12 years of age.

B. Oral acyclovir may be given within 24 hours of the onset ofrash. Administration results in a modest decrease in the duration and magnitude of fever and a decrease in thenumber and duration of skin lesions.

C. Acyclovir (Zovirax) 80 mg/kg/day PO q6h for five days, max3200 mg/day [cap: 200 mg; susp: 200 mg/5 mL; tabs: 400,800 mg]

Immunocompromised Patient

A. Intravenous acyclovir should be initiated early in the courseof the illness. Therapy within 24 hours of rash onset maximizes efficacy. Oral acyclovir should not be used because ofunreliable oral bioavailability.Dose: 500 mg/m2/dose IV q8h x 7-10 days

B. Varicella zoster immune globulin (VZIG) may be givenshortly after exposure to prevent or modify the course of thedisease. It is not effective once disease is established. Dose: 125 U per 10 kg body weight, round up to nearest vialsize to max of 625 U [vial: 125 U/1.25ml]. Must be administered IM.

Lower Urinary Tract Infection

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: UTI

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

6. Nursing: Inputs and outputs

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids:

  3. Special Medications:Lower Urinary Tract Infection:

-Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra) 6-10mg/kg/day TMP PO q12h, max 320 mg TMP/day [susp per 5mL: TMP 40 mg, SMX 200 mg; tab, SS: 80 mg/400 mg; tab,DS: 160 mg/800 mg] OR

-Cefpodoxime (Vantin) 10 mg/kg/day PO q12h, max 800mg/day [susp: 50 mg/5 mL, 100 mg/5 mL; tabs: 100, 200mg] OR

-Cefprozil (Cefzil) 30 mg/kg/day PO q12h, max 1 gm/day [susp:125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL; tabs: 250, 500 mg] OR Prophylactic Therapy:

-Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra) 2 mgTMP/kg/day and 10 mg SMX/kg/day PO qhs [ susp per 5mL: TMP 40 mg/SMX 200 mg; tab DS: TMP 160 mg/SMX800 mg; tab SS: TMP 80mg/SMX 400 mg] OR

-Sulfisoxazole (Gantrisin) 10-20 mg/kg/day PO q12h [syr: 500mg/5 mL; tab: 500 mg].

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Phenazopyridine (Pyridium), children 6-12 yrs: 12 mg/kg/dayPO tid (max 200 mg/dose); >12 yrs: 100-200 mg PO tid x 2 days prn dysuria [tabs: 100, 200 mg]. Does not treat infection; acts only as an analgesic.

  1. Extras and X-rays: Renal ultrasound. Voidingcystourethrogram 3 weeks after infection. Radiological work upon all children <1 year of age.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7. UA with micro, urine Gram stain, culture and sensitivity. Repeat urine culture and sensitivity 24-48 hoursafter therapy; blood culture and sensitivity.

Pyelonephritis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Pyelonephritis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

6. Nursing: Inputs and outputs, daily weights

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids:

  3. Special Medications:

-If less than 1 week old, see suspected sepsis, pages 48, 72.-Ampicillin 100 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6h, max 12 gm/day AND -Gentamicin (Garamycin) or Tobramycin (Nebcin):

30 days-5 yr: 7.5 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h. 5-10 yr: 6.0 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h. >10 yr: 5.0 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h OR

-Cefotaxime (Claforan) 100 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h, max 12 gm/day.

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 10-15 mg/kg PO/PR q4-6h prn temp>38E.

11. Extras and X-rays: Renal ultrasound.

12. Labs: CBC, SMA-7. UA with micro, urine culture and sensitivity. Repeat urine culture and sensitivity 24-48 hours after initiation of therapy; blood culture and sensitivity x 2; drug levels.

Otitis Media

Acute Otitis Media (S pneumoniae, non-typable H flu, Mcatarrhalis, Staph a, group A strep):

-Amoxicillin (Amoxil) 25-50 mg/kg/day PO q8h, max 3 gm/day[caps: 250, 500 mg; drops: 50 mg/mL; susp; 125 mg/5mL,200 mg/5mL, 250 mg/5mL, 400 mg/5mL; tabs: 500, 875 mg;tabs, chew: 125, 200, 250, 400 mg] OR

-Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra) 6-8mg/kg/day of TMP PO bid, max 320 mg TMP/day[susp per 5 mL: TMP 40 mg/SMX 200 mg; tab DS: TMP 160mg/SMX 800 mg; tab SS: TMP 80mg/SMX 400 mg] OR

-Erythromycin/sulfisoxazole (Pediazole) 1 mL/kg/day PO qid or40 mg/kg/day of erythromycin PO qid, max 50 mL/day[susp per 5 mL: erythromycin 200 mg/sulfisoxazole 600 mg]

OR

-Amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin) 40 mg/kg/day ofamoxicillin PO q8h x 7-10d, max 500 mg/dose [susp per 5 mL: 125, 250 mg; tabs: 250, 500 mg; tab, chew:125, 250 mg] OR

-Amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin BID)40 mg/kg/day PO q12h, max 875 mg of amoxicillin/dose[susp: 200 mg/5mL, 400 mg/5mL; tab: 875 mg; tab, chew:200, 400 mg]

-Azithromycin (Zithromax) Children >2 yrs: 12 mg/kg/day PO qd x 5 days, max 500 mg/day >16 yrs: 500 mg PO on day 1, 250 mg PO qd on days 2-5[cap: 250 mg; susp: 100 mg/5mL, 200 mg/5mL; tabs: 250,600 mg]

OR

-Clarithromycin (Biaxin) 15-30 mg/kg/day PO bid, max 1gm/day[susp: 125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL; tabs: 250, 500 mg] OR

-Cefixime (Suprax) 8 mg/kg/day PO bid-qd, max 400 mg/day[susp: 100 mg/5 mL; tabs: 200, 400 mg] OR

-Cefuroxime axetil (Ceftin) tab: child: 125-250 mg PO bid;adult: 250-500 mg PO bid; susp: 30 mg/kg/day PO q12h,max 500 mg/day[susp: 125 mg/5 mL; tabs 125, 250, 500 mg] OR

-Loracarbef (Lorabid) 30 mg/kg/day PO bid, max 400 mg/day[caps: 200, 400 mg; susp: 100 mg/5 mL, 200 mg/5mL] OR -Cefpodoxime (Vantin) 10 mg/kg/day PO bid, max 800 mg/day[susp: 50 mg/5 mL, 100 mg/5 mL; tabs: 100, 200 mg] OR -Cefprozil (Cefzil) 30 mg/kg/day PO bid, max 1gm/day[susp: 125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL; tabs: 250 mg, 500 mg]

OR

-Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 50 mg/kg IM x one dose, max 2000 mg

Acute Otitis Media (resistant strains of Strep pneumoniae):

-Amoxicillin (Amoxil) 80-90 mg/kg/day PO q12h, max 3 gm/day[caps: 250, 500 mg; drops: 50 mg/mL; susp; 125 mg/5mL,200 mg/5mL, 250 mg/5mL, 400 mg/5mL; tabs: 500, 875 mg;tabs, chew: 125, 200, 250, 400mg]

-Amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin BID) 80-90 mg/kg/day POq12h.[susp 200 mg/5 mL, 400 mg/5 mL; tab: 875 mg; tab, chew:200, 400 mg]

Prophylactic Therapy (>3 episodes in 6 months):

Therapy reserved for control of recurrent acute otitis media,defined as three or more episodes per 6 months or 4 or moreepisodes per 12 months.

-Sulfisoxazole (Gantrisin) 50 mg/kg/day PO qhs [tab 500 mg; susp 500 mg/5 mL] OR

-Amoxicillin (Amoxil) 20 mg/kg/day PO qhs [caps: 250,500 mg; drops: 50 mg/mL; susp; 125 mg/5mL,200 mg/5mL, 250 mg/5mL, 400 mg/5mL; tabs: 500, 875 mg;tabs, chew: 125, 200, 250, 400mg] OR

-Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra) 4mg/kg/day of TMP PO qhs [susp per 5 mL: TMP 40 mg/SMX 200 mg; tab DS: TMP 160mg/SMX 800 mg; tab SS: TMP 80mg/SMX 400 mg]

Symptomatic Therapy:

-Ibuprofen (Advil) 5-10 mg/kg/dose PO q6-8 hrs prn fever [suspension: 100 mg/5 mL, tabs: 200, 300, 400, 600, 800mg] AND/OR

-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 10-15 mg/kg/dose PO/PR q4-6h prnfever [tabs: 325, 500 mg; chewable tabs: 80 mg; caplets: 160 mg,500 mg; drops: 80 mg/0.8 mL; elixir: 120 mg/5 mL, 130mg/5 mL, 160 mg/5 mL, 325 mg/5 mL; caplet, ER: 650 mg;suppositories: 120, 325, 650 mg].

-Benzocaine/antipyrine (Auralgan otic): fill ear canal with 2-4drops; moisten cotton pledget and place in external ear;repeat every 1-2 hours prn pain [soln, otic: Antipyrine 5.4%,benzocaine 1.4% in 10 mL and 15 mL bottles]

Extras and X rays: Aspiration tympanocentesis, tympanogram; audiometry.

Otitis Externa

Otitis Externa (Pseudomonas, gram negatives, proteus):

-Polymyxin B/neomycin/hydrocortisone (Cortisporin otic susp orsolution) 2-4 drops in ear canal tid-qid x 5-7 days.[otic soln or susp per mL: neomycin sulfate 5 mg; polymyxinB sulfate 10,000 units; hydrocortisone 10 mg in 10 mLbottles)]. The suspension is preferred. The solution should not beused if the eardrum is perforated.

Malignant Otitis Externa in Diabetes (Pseudomonas):

-Ceftazidime (Fortaz) 100-150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h, max12gm/day OR -Piperacillin (Pipracil) or ticarcillin (Ticar) 200-300 mg/kg/dayIV/IM q4-6h, max 24gm/day OR

-Tobramycin (Nebcin) 30 days-5 yr: 7.5 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h. 5-10 yr: 6.0 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h. >10 yr: 5.0 mg/kg/day IV q8h.

Tonsillopharyngitis

Streptococcal Pharyngitis:

-Penicillin V (Pen Vee K) 25-50 mg/kg/day PO qid x 10 days,max 3 gm/day [susp: 125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL; tabs: 125,250, 500 mg] OR

-Penicillin G benzathine (Bicillin LA) 25,000-50,000 U/kg (max

1.2 MU) IM x 1 dose OR -Azithromycin (Zithromax) 12 mg/kg/day PO qd x 5 days, max500 mg/day

[cap: 250 mg; susp: 100 mg/5mL, 200 mg/5mL; tabs: 250,600 mg] OR -Clarithromycin (Biaxin)15 mg/kg/day PO bid, max 1 gm/day[susp 125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL; tabs: 250, 500 mg] OR

-Erythromycin (penicillin allergic patients) 40 mg/kg/day PO qidx 10 days, max 2 gm/dayErythromycin ethylsuccinate (EryPed, EES)

[susp: 200 mg/5 mL, 400 mg/5 mL; tab: 400 mg; tab,chew: 200 mg]Erythromycin base (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, Eryc)[cap, DR: 250 mg; tabs: 250, 333, 500 mg]

Refractory Pharyngitis:

-Amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin)40 mg/kg/day of amoxicillin PO q8h x 7-10d, max 500mg/dose [susp: 125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL; tabs: 250, 500 mg; tabs,chew: 125, 250 mg] OR

-Dicloxacillin (Dycill, Dynapen, Pathocil) 50 mg/kg/day PO qid, max 2 gm/day [caps 125, 250, 500; elixir 62.5 mg/5 mL] OR

-Cephalexin (Keflex)50 mg/kg/day PO qid-tid, max 4 gm/day[caps: 250, 500 mg; drops 100 mg/mL; susp 125 mg/5 mL,250 mg/5 mL; tabs: 500 mg, 1 gm].

Prophylaxis (5 strep infections in 6 months):

-Penicillin V Potassium (Pen Vee K)40 mg/kg/day PO bid, max 3 gm/day[susp 125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL; tabs: 125, 250, 500 mg].

Retropharyngeal Abscess (strep, anaerobes, E corrodens):

-Clindamycin (Cleocin) 25-40 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6-8h, max 4.8gm/day OR -Nafcillin (Nafcil) or oxacillin (Bactocill, Prostaphlin) 100-150mg/kg/day IV/IM q6h, max 12 gm/day AND -Cefuroxime (Zinacef) 75-100 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h, max 9

gm/dayLabs: Throat culture, rapid antigen test; PA lateral and neck films;CXR. Otolaryngology consult for incision and drainage.

Epiglottitis

  1. Admit to: Pediatric intensive care unit.

  2. Diagnosis: Epiglottitis

  1. Condition:

  2. Vital Signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  3. Activity:

6. Nursing: Pulse oximeter. Keep head of bed elevated, allowpatient to sit; curved blade laryngoscope, tracheostomy trayand oropharyngeal tube at bedside. Avoid excessive manipulation or agitation. Respiratory isolation.

  1. Diet: NPO

  2. IV Fluids:

  3. Special Medications:

-Oxygen, humidified, blow-by; keep sat >92%.

Antibiotics:

Most common causative organism is Haemophilus influenzae.-Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 50 mg/kg/day IV/IM qd, max 2 gm/day

OR

-Cefuroxime (Zinacef) 100-150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h, max 9gm/day OR

-Cefotaxime (Claforan) 100-150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6-8h, max12 gm/day

  1. Extras and X-rays: CXR PA and LAT, lateral neck. Otolaryngology consult.

  2. Labs: CBC, CBG/ABG. Blood culture and sensitivity, latexagglutination; UA, urine antigen screen.

Sinusitis

Treatment of Sinusitis (S. pneumoniae, H flu, M catarrhalis,group A strep, anaerobes):

-Treat for 14-21 days.

-Amoxicillin (Amoxil) 40 mg/kg/day PO tid, max 3 gm/day[caps: 250,500 mg; drops: 50 mg/mL; susp; 125 mg/5mL,200 mg/5mL, 250 mg/5mL, 400 mg/5mL; tabs: 500, 875 mg;tabs, chew: 125, 200, 250 , 400mg] OR

-Azithromycin (Zithromax) Children >2 yrs: 12 mg/kg/day PO qd x 5 days, max 500 mg/day >16 yrs: 500 mg PO on day 1, 250 mg PO qd on days 2-5[cap: 250 mg; susp: 100 mg/5mL, 200 mg/5mL; tab: 250,600 mg] OR

-Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra) 6-8mg/kg/day of TMP PO bid, max 320 mg TMP/day[susp per 5 mL: TMP 40 mg/SMX 200 mg; tab DS: TMP 160mg/SMX 800 mg; tab SS: TMP 80mg/SMX 400 mg] OR

-Erythromycin/sulfisoxazole (Pediazole) 1 mL/kg/day PO qid or40-50 mg/kg/day of erythromycin PO qid, max 2 gmerythromycin/day[susp per 5 mL: Erythromycin 200 mg, sulfisoxazole 600 mg]

OR

-Amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin) 40 mg/kg/day ofamoxicillin PO tid, max 500 mg/dose [elixir 125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL; tabs: 250, 500 mg; tabs,chew: 125, 250 mg] OR

-Amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin BID)40 mg/kg/day PO bid, max 875 mg (amoxicillin)/dose[susp: 200 mg/5 mL, 400 mg/5 mL; tab: 875 mg; tabs, chew:200, 400 mg] OR

-Cefuroxime axetil (Ceftin)tab: child: 125-250 mg PO bid; adult: 250-500 mg PO bid susp: 30 mg/kg/day PO qid, max 500 mg/day[susp: 125 mg/5 mL; tabs: 125, 250, 500 mg]

Labs: Sinus x-rays, MRI scan.

Active Pulmonary Tuberculosis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Active Pulmonary Tuberculosis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs:

  5. Activity:

6. Nursing: Respiratory isolation.

  1. Diet:

  2. Special Medications: Pulmonary Infection: Six Month Regimen: Two months of isoniazid, rifampin and

pyrazinamide daily, followed by 4 months of isoniazid and rifampin daily OR Two months of isoniazid, rifampin and pyrazinamide daily, followed by 4 months of isoniazid and rifampin twice weekly.

Nine Month Regimen (for hilar adenopathy only): Nine months of isoniazid and rifampin daily OR one month of isoniazid and rifampin daily, followed by 8 months of isoniazid and rifampintwice weekly.

Anti-tuberculosis Agents
Drug Daily Dose Twice Weekly Dose Dosage Forms
Isoniazid (Laniazid) 10-15 mg/kg/dayPO qd, max300 mg 20-30 mg/kgPO, max 900 mg Tab: 50, 100, 300 mgSyr: 10 mg/mL
Rifampin(Rifadin) 10-20 mg/kg/dayPO qd, max600 mg 10-20 mg/kg,max 600 mg Cap: 150, 300mg Extemporaneous suspension
Pyrazinamide 20-40 mg/kgPO qd, max2000 mg 50 mg/kg PO,max 2000 mg Tab: 500 mgExtemporaneoussuspension
Ethambutol (Myambutol) 15-25 mg/kg/dayPO qd, max2500 mg 50 mg/kg PO,max 2500 mg Tab: 100, 400 mg
Streptomycin 20-40 mg/kgIM qd, max 1 gm 20-40 mg/kgIM, max 1 gm Inj: 400 mg/mL,IM only

-Directly observed therapy should be considered for all patients. All household contacts should be tested.

Tuberculosis Prophylaxis for Skin Test Conversion:-Isoniazid-susceptible: Isoniazid (Laniazid) 10 mg/kg/day (max300 mg) PO qd x 6-9 months.-Isoniazid-resistant: Rifampin (Rifadin) 10 mg/kg/day (max 600mg) PO qd for 9 months.

  1. Extras and X-rays: CXR PA, LAT, spinal series.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA7, liver panel, HIV antibody, ABG. First AMsputum for AFB x 3 (drug sensitivity tests on first isolate).Gastric aspirates for AFB qAM x 3. UA, urine AFB.

Cellulitis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Cellulitis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

6. Nursing: Keep affected extremity elevated; warm compressestid prn. Monitor area of infection.

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids:

  3. Special Medications:Empiric Therapy for Extremity Cellulitis:

-Nafcillin (Nafcil) or oxacillin (Bactocill, Prostaphlin) 100-200mg/kg/day/IV/IM q4-6h, max 12gm/day OR -Cefazolin (Ancef) 75-100 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6-8h, max 6gm/day OR -Cefoxitin (Mefoxin) 100-160 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6h, max 12gm/day OR -Ticarcillin/clavulanate (Timentin) 200-300 mg/kg/day IV/IM q68h, max 24 gm/day OR

-Dicloxacillin (Dycill, Dynapen, Pathocil) 50-100 mg/kg/day POqid, max 2 gm/day [caps: 125, 250, 500 mg; susp: 62.5mg/5 mL].

Cheek/Buccal Cellulitis (H flu):-Cefuroxime (Zinacef) 100-150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h, max 9gm/day OR -Cefotaxime (Claforan) 100-150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6-8h, max12 gm/day.

10. Symptomatic Medications:-Acetaminophen and codeine, 0.5-1 mg codeine/kg/dose POq4-6h prn pain [elixir per 5 mL: codeine 12 mg,acetaminophen 120 mg].

11. Extras and X-rays: X-ray views of site.

12. Labs: CBC, SMA 7, blood culture and sensitivity. Leadingedge aspirate, Gram stain, culture and sensitivity; UA, urineculture.

Impetigo, Scalded Skin Syndrome, andStaphylococcal Scarlet Fever

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Impetigo, scalded skin syndrome or staphylococcalscarlet fever

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

6. Nursing: Warm compresses tid prn.

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids:

9. Special Medications:-Nafcillin (Nafcil) or oxacillin (Bactocill, Prostaphlin) 100-200mg/kg/day IV/IM q4-6h, max 12 gm/day OR -Dicloxacillin (Dycill, Dynapen, Pathocil) 25-50 mg/kg/day POqid x 5-7days, max 2 gm/day [caps 125, 250, 500 mg; elixir

62.5 mg/5 mL] OR

-Cephalexin (Keflex) 25-50 mg/kg/day PO qid, max 4 gm/day[caps: 250, 500 mg; drops 100 mg/mL; susp 125 mg/5 mL,250 mg/5 mL; tabs: 500 mg, 1 gm] OR

-Loracarbef (Lorabid) 30 mg/kg/day PO bid, max 800 mg/day[caps: 200, 400 mg; susp: 100 mg/5 mL, 200 mg/5mL] OR -Cefpodoxime (Vantin) 10 mg/kg/day PO bid, max 800 mg/day[susp: 50 mg/5 mL, 100 mg/5 mL; tabs: 100 mg, 200 mg]

OR

-Cefprozil (Cefzil) 30 mg/kg/day PO bid, max 1 gm/day [susp

125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL; tabs: 250, 500 mg] OR -Vancomycin (Vancocin) 40 mg/kg/day IV q6-8h, max 4 gm/day-Mupirocin (Bactroban) ointment or cream, apply topiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y tid

(cream/oint: 2% 15 gm). Extensive involvement requires

systemic antibiotics.

10. Symptomatic Medications:-Acetaminophen and codeine, 0.5-1 mg codeine/kg/dose POq4-6h prn pain [elixir per 5 mL: codeine 12 mg,acetaminophen 120 mg].

11. Labs: CBC, SMA 7, blood culture and sensitivity. Drainagefluid for Gram stain, culture and sensitivity; UA.

Tetanus

History of One or Two Primary Immunizations or Unknown:Low risk wound - Tetanus toxoid 0.5 mL IM. Tetanus prone - Tetanus toxoid 0.5 mL IM, plus tetanusimmunoglobulin (TIG) 250 U IM.

Three Primary Immunizations and 10 yrs or more Since LastBooster:

Low risk wound - Tetanus toxoid, 0.5 mL IM.

Tetanus prone - Tetanus toxoid, 0.5 mL IM.

Three Primary Immunizations and 5-10 yrs Since LastBooster:

Low risk wound - None

Tetanus prone - Tetanus toxoid 0.5 mL IM.

Three Primary Immunizations and <5 yrs Since Last Booster:

Low risk wound - None

Tetanus prone - None

Treatment of Clostridium Tetani Infection: -Tetanus immune globulin (TIG): single dose of 3,000 to 6,000U IM (consider immune globulin intravenous if TIG is notavailable). Part of the TIG dose may be infiltrated loCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)yaround the wound. Keep wound clean and débrided.-Penicillin G 100,000 U/kg/day IV q4-6h, max 24 MU/day x 1014 days OR -Metronidazole (Flagyl) 30 mg/kg/day PO/IV q6h, max 4gm/day x 10-14 days

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

  6. Nursing

  7. Diet:

  8. IV Fluids:

  9. Special Medications:Adolescent Outpatients

-Ofloxacin (Floxin, 400 mg PO twice daily) or levofloxacin(Levaquin, 500 mg once daily) with or without metronidazole(Flagyl, 500 mg twice daily) for 14 days. OR

-Ceftriaxone (Rocephin, 250 mg IM), cefoxitin (Mefoxin, 2 g IMplus probenecid 1 g orally), or another parenteral third-generation cephalosporin, followed by doxycycline (100 mgorally twice daily) with or without metronidazole for 14 days.Quinolones are not recommended to treat gonorrhea acquired in California or Hawaii. If the patient may have acquired the disease in Asia, Hawaii, or California, cefixime orceftriaxone should be used. OR

-Azithromycin (Zithromax, 1 g PO for Chlamydia coverage) andamoxicillin-clavulanate (Amoxicillin, 875 mg PO) once bydirectly observed therapy, followed by amoxicillinclavulanate (Amoxicillin, 875 mg PO BID) for 7 to 10 days.

Adolescent Inpatients-Cefotetan (Cefotan), 2 g IV Q12h, or cefoxitin (Mefoxin, 2 g IVQ6h) plus doxycycline (100 mg IV or PO Q12h) OR -Clindamycin (Cleocin), 900 mg IV Q8h, plus gentamicin (1-1.5mg/kg IV q8h)-Ampicillin-sulbactam (Unasyn), 3 g IV Q6h plus doxycycline(100 mg IV or PO Q12h)-Parenteral administration of antibiotics should be continued for 24 hours after clinical response, followed by doxycycline(100 mg PO BID) or clindamycin (Cleocin, 450 mg PO QID)for a total of 14 days.-Levofloxacin (Levaquin), 500 mg IV Q24h, plus metronidazole(Flagyl, 500 mg IV Q8h). With this regimen, azithromycin(Zithromax, 1 g PO once) should be given as soon as thepatient is tolerating oral intake.

Gonorrhea in Children less than 45 kg: Uncomplicated Vulvovaginitis, Cervicitis, Urethritis, Proctitis, or Pharyngitis:

-Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 125 mg IM x 1 dose (uncomplicateddisease only)

AND

-Erythromycin 50 mg/kg/day PO q6h, max 2gm/day x 7 days

OR -Azithromycin (Zithromax) 20 mg/kg PO x 1 dose, max 1 gm Disseminated Gonococcal Infection:

-Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 50 mg/kg/day (max 2gm/day) IV/IMq24h x 7 days AND -Azithromycin (Zithromax) 20 mg/kg (max 1gm) PO x 1 dose

OR

-Erythromycin 40 mg/kg/day PO q6h (max 2gm/day) x 7 days

OR

-Doxycycline 100 mg PO bid.

Gonorrhea in Children > 45 kg and >8 yrs: Uncomplicated Vulvovaginitis, Cervicitis, Urethritis, Proctitis, or Pharyngitis:

-Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 125 mg IM x 1 dose OR cefixime (Suprax) 400 mg PO x 1 dose or ofloxacin (Floxin) 400 mgPO x 1 dose

AND -Azithromycin (Zithromax) 1000 mg PO x 1 dose OR -Doxycycline 100 mg PO bid x 7 days.

Disseminated Gonococcal Infection:

-Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 1000 mg/day IV/IM q24h x 7 days OR

cefotaxime (Claforan) 1000 mg IV q8h x 7 days AND -Azithromycin (Zithromax) 1000 mg PO x 1 dose OR -Doxycycline 100mg PO bid x 7 days.

10. Symptomatic Medications:

-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 10-15 mg/kg/dose PO/PR q4-6h prn.

  1. Extras and X-rays: Pelvic ultrasound; social services consult.

  2. Labs: beta-HCG pregnancy test, CBC, SMA 7 and 12. GCculture and chlamydia test, RPR or VDRL. UA with micro; urine pregnancy test.

Pediculosis

Pediculosis Capitis (head lice):-Permethrin (Nix) is the preferred treatment. Available in a 1%cream rinse that is applied to the scalp and hair for 10 minutes. A single treatment is adequate, but a second treatmentmay be applied 7-10 days after the first treatment [creamrinse: 1% 60 mL].-Pyrethrin (Rid, A-2000, R&C). Available as a shampoo that isapplied to the scalp and hair for 10 minutes. A repeat application 7-10 days later may sometimes be necessary [shampoo (0.3% pyrethrins, 3% piperonyl butoxide): 60, 120, 240mL].-For infestation of eyelashes, apply petrolatum ointment tid-qidfor 8-10 days and mechaniCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y remove the lice.

Pediculosis Corporis (body lice):-Treatment consists of improving hygiene and cleaning clothes.Infested clothing should be washed and dried at hot temperatures to kill the lice. Pediculicides are not necessary.

Pediculosis Pubis (pubic lice, “crabs”): Permethrin (Nix) orpyrethrin-based products may be used as described above forpediculosis capitis. Retreatment is recommended 7-10 dayslater.

Scabies

Treatment:

Bathe with soap and water; scrub and remove scaling or crusteddetritus; towel dry. All clothing and bed linen contaminatedwithin past 2 days should be washed in hot water for 20 min.

Permethrin (Elimite) - 5% cream: Adults and children: Massagecream into skin from head to soles of feet. Remove by washingafter 8 to 14 hours. Treat infants on scalp, temple and forehead. One application is curative. [cream: 5% 60 gm]

Lindane (Kwell, Gamma benzene) - available as 1% cream orlotion: Use 1% lindane for adults and older children; not recommended in pregnancy, infants, or on excoriated skin. 1-2treatments are effective. Massage a thin layer from neck totoes (including soles). In adults, 20-30 gm of cream or lotion issufficient for 1 application. Bathe after 8 hours. May be repeated in one week if mites remain or if new lesions appear.Contraindicated in children <2 years of age. [lotion: 1% 60, 473mL; shampoo:1%: 60, 473 mL].

Dermatophytoses

Diagnostic procedures:

(1)
KOH prep of scales and skin scrapings for hyphae.
(2)
Fungal cultures are used for uncertain cases.

Treat for at least 4 weeks. Tinea corporis (ringworm), cruris (jock itch), pedis (athlete’s foot):

-Ketoconazole (Nizoral) cream qd [2%: 15, 30, 60 gm].-Clotrimazole (Lotrimin) cream bid [1%: 15, 30, 45 gm].-Miconazole (Micatin) cream bid [2%: 15, 30 gm].-Econazole (Spectazole) cream bid [1%: 15, 30, 85 gm].-Oxiconazole (Oxistat) cream or lotion qd-bid [1% cream: 15,

30, 60 gm; 1% lotion: 30 mL].-Sulconazole (Exelderm) cream or lotion qd-bid [1% cream: 15,

30, 60 gm; 1% lotion: 30 mL].-Naftifine (Naftin) cream or gel applied bid [1%: 15, 30 gm].-Terbinafine (Lamisil) cream or applied bid [1% cream: 15, 30

gm; 1% gel: 5, 15, 30 gm].

Tinea capitis:-Griseofulvin Microsize (Grisactin, Grifulvin V) 15-20 mg/kg/dayPO qd, max 1000 mg/day [caps: 125, 250 mg; susp: 125mg/5 mL; tabs: 250, 500 mg]-Griseofulvin Ultramicrosize (Fulvicin P/G, Grisactin Ultra, Gris-PEG) 5-10 mg/kg/day PO qd, max 750 mg/day [tabs: 125,165, 250, 330 mg].-Give griseofulvin with whole-milk or fatty foods to increaseabsorption. May require 4-6 weeks of therapy and should becontinued for two weeks beyond clinical resolution.

Tinea Unguium (Fungal Nail Infection): -Griseofulvin (see dosage above) is effective, but may requireup to 4 months of therapy.

Tinea Versicolor: -Cover body surface from face to knees with selenium sulfide2.5% lotion or selenium sulfide 1% shampoo daily for 30minutes for 1 week, then monthly x 3 to help prevent recurrences.

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Gastroenteritis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Acute Gastroenteritis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

  1. Nursing: Inputs and outputs, daily weights, urine specific gravity.

  2. Diet: Rehydralyte, Pedialyte or soy formula (Isomil DF), bland diet.

  3. IV Fluids: See Dehydration, page 67.

9. Special Medications: Severe Gastroenteritis with Fever, Gross Blood and Neutrophils in Stool (E coli, Shigella, Salmonella):

-Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 50-75 mg/kg/day IV/IM q 12-24h, max 4gm/day OR

-Cefixime (Suprax) 8 mg/kg/day PO bid-qd, max 400 mg/day[susp: 100 mg/5 mL; tabs: 200, 400 mg] OR

-Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra) 10 mg of TMPcomponent/kg/day PO bid x 5-7d, max 320 mg TMP/day [suspper 5 mL: TMP 40 mg/SMX 200 mg; tab DS: TMP 160 mg/SMX800 mg; tab SS: TMP 80mg/SMX 400 mg].

Salmonella (treat infants and patients with septicemia):

-Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 50-75 mg/kg/day IV/IM q12-24h, max 4gm/day OR

-Cefixime (Suprax) 8 mg/kg/day PO bid-qd, max 400 mg/day[susp: 100 mg/5 mL; tabs: 200, 400 mg] OR

-Ampicillin 100-200 mg/kg/day IV q6h, max 12 gm/day or 50-100mg/kg/day PO qid x 5-7d, max 4 gm/day [caps: 250, 500 mg;drops: 100 mg/mL; susp: 125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL, 500mg/5 mL] OR

-Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra) 10 mgTMP/kg/day PO bid x 5-7d, max 320 mg TMP/day [susp per 5mL: TMP 40 mg/SMX 200 mg; tab DS: TMP 160 mg/SMX 800mg; tab SS: TMP 80mg/SMX 400 mg] OR

-If >18 yrs: Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 250-750 mg PO q12h or 200-400mg IV q12h [inj: 200, 400 mg; susp: 100 mg/mL; tabs: 100,250, 500, 750 mg]

Antibiotic Associated Diarrhea and Pseudomembranous Colitis (Clostridium difficile):

-Treat for 7-10 days. Do not give antidiarrheal drugs.

-Metronidazole (Flagyl) 30 mg/kg/day PO/IV (PO preferred) q8h x7 days, max 4 gm/day. [inj: 500 mg; tabs: 250, 500 mg; extem

poraneous suspension] OR

-Vancomycin (Vancocin) 40 mg/kg/day PO qid x 7 days, max 2gm/day [caps: 125, 250 mg; oral soln: 250 mg/5 mL, 500 mg/6mL]. Vancomycin therapy is reserved for patients who areallergic to metronidazole or who have not responded tometronidazole therapy.

Rotavirus supportive treatment, see Dehydration page 67.

10. Extras and X-rays: Upright abdomen

11. Labs: SMA7, CBC; stool Wright stain for leukocytes,Rotazyme. Stool culture and sensitivity for enteric pathogens;C difficile toxin and culture, ova and parasites; occult blood.Urine specific gravity, UA, blood culture and sensitivity.

Specific Therapy for Gastroenteritis

Shigella Sonnei:

-Treat x 5 days. Oral therapy is acceptable except for seriously illpatients. For resistant strains, ciprofloxacin should be considered but is not recommended for use for persons younger than18 years of age except in exceptional circumstances.

-Ampicillin (preferred over amoxicillin) 50-100 mg/kg/day PO q6h,max 3 gm/day [caps: 250, 500 mg; drops: 100 mg/mL; susp:125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL; 500 mg/5 mL] OR

-Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra) 10 mgTMP/kg/day PO/IV q12h x 5 days [inj per mL: TMP 16mg/SMX80mg; susp per 5 mL: TMP 40 mg/SMX 200 mg; tab DS: TMP160 mg/SMX 800 mg; tab SS: TMP 80mg/SMX 400 mg] OR

-Ampicillin 50-80 mg/kg/day PO q6h, max 4 gm/day; or 100mg/kg/day IV/IM q6h for 5-7 days, max 12 gm/day [caps: 250,500 mg; susp: 125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL] OR

-Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 50-75 mg/kg/day IV/IM q 12-24h, max 4gm/day OR

-Cefixime (Suprax) 8 mg/kg/day PO bid-qd, max 400 mg/day[susp: 100 mg/5 mL; tabs: 200, 400 mg].

Yersinia (sepsis):

-Most isolates are resistant to first-generation cephalosporins andpenicillins.

-Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra) 10 mg/kg/dayTMP PO q12h x 5-7days [susp per 5 mL: TMP 40 mg/SMX 200mg; tab DS: TMP 160 mg/SMX 800 mg; tab SS: TMP80mg/SMX 400 mg]

Campylobacter jejuni:

-Erythromycin 40 mg/kg/day PO q6h x 5-7 days, max 2 gm/dayErythromycin ethylsuccinate (EryPed, EES)[susp: 200 mg/5 mL, 400 mg/5 mL; tab: 400 mg; tab, chew:200 mg]Erythromycin base (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, Eryc)[cap, DR: 250 mg; tabs: 250, 333, 500 mg] OR

-Azithromycin (Zithromax) 10 mg/kg PO x 1 on day 1 (max 500 mg) followed by 5mg/kg/day PO qd on days 2-5 (max 250 mg)[cap: 250 mg; susp: 100 mg/5mL, 200 mg/5mL; tabs: 250, 600mg]

Enteropathogenic E coli (Travelers Diarrhea):

-Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra) 10 mg/kg/dayTMP PO/IV bid [inj per mL: TMP 16 mg/SMX 80 mg; susp per 5mL: TMP 40 mg/SMX 200 mg; tab DS: TMP 160 mg/SMX 800mg; tab SS: TMP 80mg/SMX 400 mg].

-Patients older than 8 years old: Doxycycline (Vibramycin) 2-4mg/kg/day PO q12-24h, max 200 mg/day [caps: 50, 100 mg;susp: 25 mg/5mL; syrup: 50 mg/5mL; tabs 50, 100 mg].

Enteroinvasive E coli:

-Antibiotic selection should be based on susceptibility testing ofthe isolate. If systemic infection is suspected, parenteralantimicrobial therapy should be given.

Giardia Lamblia:

-Metronidazole is the drug of choice. A 5-7 day course of therapyhas a cure rate of 80-95%. Furazolidone is 72-100% effective when given for 7-10 days. Albendazole is also an acceptablealternative when given for 5 days.

-Metronidazole (Flagyl) 15 mg/kg/day PO q8h x 5-7 days (max 4gm/day) [tabs: 250, 500 mg; extemporaneous suspension] OR

-Furazolidone (Furoxone) 5-8.8 mg/kg/day PO qid for 7-10 days,max 400 mg/day [susp: 50 mg/15 mL; tab: 100 mg] OR

-Albendazole (Albenza): if > 2 yrs, 400 mg PO qd x 5 days [tab:200mg; extemporaneous suspension]

Entamoeba Histolytica:Asymptomatic cyst carriers:

-Iodoquinol (Yodoxin) 30-40 mg/kg/day PO q8h (max 1.95gm/day) x 20 days [tabs: 210, 650 mg; powder for reconstitution] OR

-Paromomycin (Humatin) 25-35 mg/kg/day PO q8h x 7 days[cap: 250 mg] OR -Diloxanide: 20 mg/kg/day PO q8h x 10 days, max 1500mg/day. (Available only through CDC).

Mild-to-moderate intestinal symptoms with no dysentery:-Metronidazole (Flagyl): 35-50 mg/kg/day PO q8h x 10 days,max 2250 mg/day [tabs: 250, 500 mg; extemporaneoussuspension] followed by:-Iodoquinol (Yodoxin) 30-40 mg/kg/day PO q8h (max 1.95gm/day) x 20 days [tabs: 210, 650 mg; powder for reconstitution] OR -Paromomycin (Humatin) 25-35 mg/kg/day PO q8h x 7 days[cap: 250 mg] OR -Diloxanide: 20 mg/kg/day PO q8h x 10 days, max 1500mg/day. (Available only through CDC).

Dysentery or extraintestinal disease (including liver abscess):

-Metronidazole (Flagyl): 35-50 mg/kg/day PO q8h x 10 days,max 2250 mg/day [tabs: 250, 500 mg; extemporaneoussuspension] followed by:

-Iodoquinol (Yodoxin) 30-40 mg/kg/day PO q8h (max 1.95gm/day) x 20 days [tabs: 210, 650 mg; powder for reconstitution] OR

-Paromomycin (Humatin) 25-35 mg/kg/day PO q8h x 7 days[cap: 250 mg] OR -Diloxanide: 20 mg/kg/day PO q8h x 10 days, max 1500mg/day. (Available only through CDC).

Hepatitis A

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Hepatitis A

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity: Up ad lib

6. Nursing: Contact precautions.

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids: D5NS IV at maintenance rate.

9. Symptomatic Medications:-Trimethobenzamide (Tigan) 15 mg/kg/day IM/PO/PR q6-8h, max 100 mg/dose if <13.6kg or 200 mg/dose if 13.6-41kg.[caps: 100, 250 mg; inj: 100 mg/mL; supp: 100, 200 mg].-Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 15 mg/kg PO/PR q4h prn temp >38E C or pain.-Meperidine (Demerol) 1 mg/kg IV/IM q2-3h prn pain.

10. Special Medications:-Hepatitis A immune globulin, 0.02 mL/kg IM (usually requiresmultiple injections at different sites), when given within 2weeks after exposure to HAV, is 85% effective in preventingsymptomatic infection.-Hepatitis A vaccine (Havrix) if >2 yrs: 0.5 mL IM, repeat in 6

12 months.

  1. Extras and X-rays:Abdominal x-ray series.

  2. Labs: IgM anti-HAV antibody, HAV IgG, liver function tests,INR, PTT, stool culture for enteric pathogens.

Hepatitis B

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Hepatitis B.

  3. Condition: Guarded.

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

  1. Nursing: Standard precautions.

  2. Diet: Low fat diet.

  3. IV Fluids: Isotonic fluids at maintenance rate.

9. Symptomatic Medications:-Trimethobenzamide (Tigan) 15 mg/kg/day IM/PO/PR q6-8h, max 100 mg/dose if <13.6kg or 200 mg/dose if 13.6-41kg.[caps: 100, 250 mg; inj: 100 mg/mL; supp: 100, 200 mg].-Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 1 mg/kg/dose IV/IM/IO/PO q6hprn pruritus or nausea, max 50 mg/dose OR -Acetaminophen (Tylenol)15 mg/kg PO/PR q4h prn temp >38E C or pain.-Meperidine (Demerol) 1 mg/kg IV/IM q2-3h prn pain.

Post exposure prophylaxis for previously unimmunizedpersons:

-Hepatitis B immune globulin 0.06 mL/kg (minimum 0.5 mL) IM

x1 AND -Hepatitis B vaccine 0.5 mL IM (complete three dose serieswith second dose in one month and third dose in six months)

10. Extras and X-rays:

11. Labs: IgM anti-HAV, IgM anti-HBc, HBsAg, anti-HCV; alpha-1-antitrypsin, ANA, ferritin, ceruloplasmin, urine copper, liverfunction tests, INR, PTT.

Parenteral Nutrition

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

5. Nursing: Daily weights, inputs and outputs; measure headcircumference and height. Finger stick glucose bid.

6. Diet: Total Parenteral Nutrition:

-Calculate daily protein solution fluid requirement less fluidfrom lipid and other sources. Calculate total amino acid requirement.

-Protein: Neonates and infants start with 0.5 gm/kg/day andincrease to 2-3 gm/kg/day. For children and young adults,start with 1 gm/kg/day, and increase by 1.0 gm/kg/day (max2-3 gm/kg/day). Calculate percent amino acid to be infused:amino acid requirement in grams divided by the volume offluid from the dextrose/protein solution in mL x 100.

-Advance daily dextrose concentration as tolerated, whilefollowing blood glucose levels. Usual maximum concentration is D35W.

Total Parenteral Nutrition Requirements
Infants-25 kg 25-45 kg >45 kg
Calories 90-120 kcal/kg/day 60-105 kcal/kg/day 40-75 kcal/kg/day
Fluid 120-180 mL/kg/day 120-150 mL/kg/day 50-75 mL/kg/day
Dextrose 4-6 mg/kg/min 7-8 mg/kg/min 7-8 mg/kg/min
Protein 2-3 gm/kg/day 1.5-2.5 gm/kg/day 0.8-2.0 gm/kg/day
Sodium 2-6 mEq/kg/day 2-6 mEq/kg/day 60-150 mEq/day
Potassium 2-5 mEq/kg/day 2-5 mEq/kg/day 70-150 mEq/day
Infants-25 kg 25-45 kg >45 kg
Chloride 2-3 mEq/kg/day 2-3 mEq/kg/day 2-3 mEq/kg/day
Calcium 1-2 mEq/kg/day 1 mEq/kg/day 0.2-0.3 mEq/kg/day
Phosphate 0.5-1 mM/kg/day 0.5 mM/kg/day 7-10 mM/1000 cal
Magnesium 1-2 mEq/kg/day 1 mEq/kg/day 0.35-0.45 mEq/kg/day
Multi-Trace Element Formula 1 mL/day 1 mL/day 1 mL/day
Multivitamin (Peds MVI or MVC 9+3)
<2.5 kg 2 mL/kg Peds MVI
2.5 kg -11 yr 5 mL/day Peds MVI
>11 yrs MVC 9+3 10 mL/day

Dextrose Infusion: -Dextrose mg/kg/min = [% dextrose x rate (mL/hr) x 0.167] ÷kg-Normal Starting Rate: 6-8 mg/kg/min

Lipid Solution:-Minimum of 5% of total calories should be from fat emulsion. Max of 40% of calories as fat (10% soln = 1 gm/10 mL = 1.1kcal/mL; 20% soln = 2 gm/10 mL = 2.0 kcal/mL). 20%Intralipid is preferred in most patients.-For neonates, begin fat emulsion at 0.5 gm/kg/day and advance to 0.5-1 gm/kg/day.-For infants, children and young adults, begin at 1 gm/kg/day,advance as tolerated by 0.5-1 gm/kg/day; max 3 gm/kg/dayor 40% of calories/day.-Neonates - infuse over 20-24h; children and infants - infuse over 16-24h, max 0.15 gm/kg/hr.-Check serum triglyceride 6h after infusion (maintain <200mg/dL)

Peripheral Parenteral Supplementation: -Calculate daily fluid requirement less fluid from lipid and othersources. Then calculate protein requirements: Begin with 1gm/kg/day. Advance daily protein by 0.5-0.6 gm/kg/day tomaximum of 3 gm/kg/day.-Protein requirement in grams ÷ fluid requirement in mL x 100= % amino acids. -Begin with maximum tolerated dextrose concentration. (Dextrose concentration >12.5% requires a central line.)-Calculate max fat emulsion intake (3 gm/kg/day), and calculate volume of 20% fat required (20 gm/100 mL = 20 %):[weight (kg) x gm/kg/day] ÷ 20 x 100 = mL of 20% fat emulsion. Start with 0.5-1.0 gm/kg/day lipid, and increase by 0.5-1.0gm/kg/day until 3 gm/kg/day. Deliver over 18-24 hours.-Draw blood 4-6h after end of infusion for triglyceride level.

  1. Extras and X-rays: CXR, plain film for line placement, dietitian consult.

  2. Labs:

Daily labs: Glucose, Na, K, Cl, HCO3, BUN, creatinine, osmolarity, CBC, cholesterol, triglyceride, urine glucose andspecific gravity.

Twice weekly Labs: Calcium, phosphate, Mg, SMA-12

Weekly Labs: Protein, albumin, prealbumin, Mg, direct andindirect bilirubin, AST, GGT, alkaline phosphatase, iron, TIBC,transferrin, retinol-binding protein, PT/PTT, zinc, copper, B12,folate, 24h urine nitrogen and creatinine.

Gastroesophageal Reflux

A. Treatment: -Thicken feedings; give small volume feedings; keep head of bedelevated 30 degrees.-Metoclopramide (Reglan) 0.1-0.2 mg/kg/dose PO qid 20-30minutes prior to feedings, max 1 mg/kg/day [concentratedsoln: 10 mg/mL; syrup: 1 mg/mL; tab: 10 mg]-Cimetidine (Tagamet) 20-40 mg/kg/day IV/PO q6h (20-30 minbefore feeding) [inj: 150 mg/mL; oral soln: 60 mg/mL; tabs:200, 300, 400, 800 mg]-Ranitidine (Zantac) 2-4 mg/kg/day IV q8h or 4-6 mg/kg/day POq12h [inj: 25 mg/mL; liquid: 15 mg/mL; tabs: 75, 150, 300 mg]-Erythromycin (used as a prokinetic agent not as an antibiotic) 23 mg/kg/dose PO q6-8h. [ethylsuccinate susp: 200 mg/5mL,400 mg/5mL] Concomitant cisapride is contraindicated due topotentially fatal drug interaction.-Cisapride (Propulsid) 0.15-0.3 mg/kg/dose PO tid-qid [susp: 1mg/mL; tab, scored: 10 mg]. Available via limited-accessprotocol only (Janssen, 1-800-Janssen) due to risk of seriouscardiac arrhythmias.

B. Extras and X-rays: Upper GI series, pH probe, gastroesophageal nuclear scintigraphy (milk scan), endoscopy.

Constipation

I. Management of Constipation in Infants

A. Glycerin suppositories are effective up to 6 months of age:1 suppository rectally prn.Barley malt extract, 1-2 teaspoons, can be added to a feeding two to three times daily.Four to six ounces prune juice are often effective. After 6

months of age, lactulose 1 to 2 mL/kg/day is useful.

B. Infants that do not respond may be treated with emulsifiedmineral oil (Haley’s MO) 2 mL/kg/dose PO bid, increasingas needed to 6-8 oz per day.

II. Management of Constipation in Children >2 years of Age

A. The distal impaction should be removed with hypertonicphosphate enemas (Fleet enema). Usually three enemasare administered during a 36 to 48 hour period.

B. Lactulose may also be used at 5 to 10 mL PO bid, increasing as required up to 45 mL PO bid.

C. Emulsified mineral oil (Haley’s MO) may be begun at 2mL/kg/dose PO bid and increased as needed up to 6 to 8oz per day. Concerns about mineral oil interfering withabsorption of fat-soluble vitamins have not been substantiated.

D. Milk of magnesia: Preschoolers are begun at 2 tsp PO bid,with adjustments made to reach a goal of one to threesubstantial stools a day over 1 to 2 weeks. Older children:1-3 tablets (311mg magnesium hydroxide/chewable tablet)PO bid prn.

E. A bulk-type stool softener (e.g., Metamucil) should beinitiated. Increase intake of high-residue foods (e.g. fruits,vegetables), bran, and whole grain products. Water intakeshould be increased.

III.Stool Softeners and Laxatives:

A. Docusate sodium (Colace):

<3y 20-40 mg/day PO q6-24h 3-6y 20-60 mg/day PO q6-24h 6-12y 40-150 mg/day PO q6-24h >12y 50-400 mg/day PO q6-24h[caps: 50,100, 250 mg; oral soln: 10 mg/mL, 50 mg/mL]

B. Magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia) 0.5 mL/kg/doseor 2-5 yr: 5-15 mL; 6-12y: 15-30 mL; >12y: 30-60 mL PO prn.

C. Hyperosmotic soln (CoLyte or GoLytely) 15-20 mL/kg/hrPO/NG.

D. Polyethylene glycol (MiraLax)3-6 yr: 1 tsp powder dissolved in 3 ounces fluid PO qd-tid6-12 yr: ½ tablespoon powder dissolved in 4 ounces fluidPO qd-tid >12 yr: one tablespoon powder dissolved in 8 ounces fluidPO qd-tid

E. Senna (Senokot, Senna-Gen) 10-20 mg/kg PO/PR qhs prn(max 872 mg/day) [granules: 362 mg/teaspoon; supp: 652mg; syrup: 218 mg/5mL; tabs: 187, 217, 600 mg]

F. Sennosides (Agoral, Senokot, Senna-Gen), 2-6 yrs: 3-8.6mg/dose PO qd-bid; 6-12 yrs: 7.15-15 mg/dose PO qd-bid;> 12 yrs: 12-25 mg/dose PO qd-bid [granules per 5 mL: 8.3,15, 20 mg; liquid: 33 mg/mL; syrup: 8.8 mg/5 mL; tabs: 6,8.6, 15, 17, 25 mg]

IV. Diagnostic Evaluation: Anorectal manometry,anteroposterior and lateral abdominal radiographs, lower GIstudy of unprepared colon.

Toxicology

Poisonings

Gastric Decontamination: Ipecac Syrup:

<6 mos: not recommended 6-12 mos: 5-10 mL PO followed by 10-20 mL/kg of water1-12 yrs: 15 mL PO followed by 10-20 mL/kg of water>12 yrs: 30 mL PO followed by 240 mL of waterMay repeat dose one time if vomiting does not occur within 2030 minutes. Syrup of ipecac is contraindicated in corrosive orhydrocarbon ingestions or in patients without or soon to losegag reflex.Activated Charcoal: 1 gm/kg/dose (max 50 gm) PO/NG; the

first dose should be given using product containing sorbitol

as a cathartic. Repeat ½ of initial dose q4h if indicated.

Gastric Lavage: Left side down, with head slightly lower thanbody; place large-bore orogastric tube and check position byinjecting air and auscultating. Normal saline lavage: 15mL/kg boluses until clear (max 400 mL), then give activatedcharcoal or other antidote. Save initial aspirate for toxicological exam. Gastric lavage is contraindicated if corrosives,hydrocarbons, or sharp objects were ingested.

Cathartics: -Magnesium citrate 6% sln:<6 yrs: 2-4 mL/kg/dose PO/NG6-12 yrs: 100-150 mL PO/NG>12 yrs: 150-300 mL PO/NG

Antidotes to Common Poisonings

Narcotic or Propoxyphene Overdose:-Naloxone (Narcan) 0.1 mg/kg/dose (max 4 mg) IV/IO/ET/IM,may repeat q2min.

Methanol or Ethylene Glycol Overdose:-Ethanol 8-10 mL/kg (10% inj soln) IV in D5W over 30min, then0.8-1.4 mL/kg/hr. Maintain ethanol level at 100-130 mg/dL.

Benzodiazepine Overdose:-Flumazenil (Romazicon) 0.01 mg/kg IV (max 0.5 mg). Repeatdose if symptoms return.

Alcohol Overdose: Cardiorespiratory support-Labs: Blood glucose; CBC, ABG, rapid toxicology screen.-Treatment: Dextrose 0.5-1 gm/kg (2-4 mL/kg D25W or 5-10mL/kg D10W), max 25 gm.-Naloxone (Narcan) 0.1 mg/kg (max 2 mg) IV, repeat q2minprn to max dose 8-10 mg if drug overdose suspected. Forextreme agitation, give diazepam 0.1-0.5 mg/kg IV (max 5mg if < 5 yrs, 10 mg if >5 yrs).

Organophosphate Toxicity-Atropine: 0.01-0.02 mg/kg/dose (minimum dose 0.1mg, maximum dose 0.5 mg in children and 1 mg in adolescents)IM/IV/SC. May repeat prn.-Pralidoxime (2-PAM): 20-50 mg/kg/dose IM/IV. Repeat in 1-2hrs if muscle weakness has not been relieved, then at 10-12 hr intervals if cholinergic signs recur.

Anticholinergic Toxicity-Physostigmine (Antilirium): 0.01-0.03 mg/kg/dose IV; mayrepeat after 15-20 minutes to a maximum total dose of 2 mg.

Heparin Overdose-Protamine sulfate dosage is determined by the most recentdosage of heparin and the time elapsed since the overdose.

Dosage of Protamine Sulfate
Time Elapsed IV Dose of Protamine (mg) to Neutralize 100 units of Heparin
Immediate 1-1.5
30-60 minutes 0.5-0.75
> 2 hrs 0.25-0.375

Warfarin Overdose

-Phytonadione (Vitamin K1)

-If no bleeding and rapid reversal needed and patient willrequire further oral anticoagulation therapy, give 0.5-2 mgIV/SC

-If no bleeding and rapid reversal needed and patient will not require further oral anticoagulation therapy, give 2-5 mgIV/SC

-If significant bleeding but not life-threatening, give 0.5-2 mgIV/SC-If significant bleeding and life-threatening, give 5 mg IV[inj: 2 mg/mL, 10 mg/mL]

Acetaminophen Overdose

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Acetaminophen overdose

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if

6. Nursing: ECG monitoring, inputs and outputs, pulse oximeter,aspiration precautions.

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids:

9. Special Medications:-Gastric lavage with 10 mL/kg (if >5 yrs, use 150-200 mL) ofnormal saline by nasogastric tube if < 60 minutes after ingestion. -Activated charcoal (if recent ingestion) 1 gm/kg PO/ NG q24h, remove via suction prior to acetylcysteine.

-N-Acetylcysteine (Mucomyst, NAC) loading dose 140 mg/kgPO/ NG, then 70 mg/kg PO/NG q4h x 17 doses (20% slndiluted 1:4 in carbonated beverage); follow acetaminophenlevels. Continue for full treatment course even if serum levels fall below nomogram.

-Phytonadione (Vitamin K) 1-5 mg PO/IV/IM/SQ (if INR >1.5).-Fresh frozen plasma should be administered if INR >3.

  1. Extras and X-rays: Portable CXR. Nephrology consult forcharcoal hemoperfusion.

  2. Labs: CBC, SMA 7, liver panel, amylase, INR/PTT; SGOT,SGPT, bilirubin, acetaminophen level now and q4h untilnondetectable. Plot serum acetaminophen level on Rumack-Matthew nomogram to assess severity of ingestion unlesssustained release Tylenol was ingested. Toxicity is likely withingestion >150 mg/kg (or 7.5 gm in adolescents/adults).

Iron Overdose

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Iron overdose

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

6. Nursing: Inputs and outputs

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids: Maintenance IV fluids

9. Special Medications:Toxicity likely if >60 mg/kg elemental iron ingested.Possibly toxic if 20-60 mg/kg elemental iron ingested.Induce emesis with ipecac if recent ingestion (<1 hour ago).Charcoal is not effective. Gastric lavage if greater than 20mg/kg of elemental iron ingested or if unknown amountingested.If hypotensive, give IV fluids (10-20 mL/kg normal saline) andplace the patient in Trendelenburg's position.Maintain urine output of >2 mL/kg/h.If peak serum iron is greater than 350 mcg/dL or if patient issymptomatic, begin chelation therapy.-Deferoxamine (Desferal) 15 mg/kg/hr continuous IV infusion.Continue until serum iron is within normal range.Exchange transfusion is recommended in severely symptomatic patients with serum iron >1,000 mcg/dL.

  1. Extras and X-rays: KUB to determine if tablets are present in intestine.

  2. Labs: Type and cross, CBC, electrolytes, serum iron, TIBC,INR/PTT, blood glucose, liver function tests, calcium.

Neurologic andEndocrinologic Disorders

Seizure and Status Epilepticus

  1. Admit to: Pediatric intensive care unit.

  2. Diagnosis: Seizure

  1. Condition:

  2. Vital signs: Neurochecks q2-6h; Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  3. Activity:

6. Nursing: Seizure and aspiration precautions, ECG and EEGmonitoring.

  1. Diet: NPO

  2. IV Fluids:

  3. Special Medications:Febrile Seizures: Control fever with antipyretics and coolingmeasures. Anticonvulsive therapy is usually not required.

Status Epilepticus:1.Maintain airway, 100% O2 by mask; obtain brief history, fingerstick glucose.2.Start IV NS. If hypoglycemic, give 1-2 mL/kg D25W IV/IO(0.25-0.5 gm/kg). 3.Lorazepam (Ativan) 0.1 mg/kg (max 4 mg) IV/IM. Repeat q15-20 min x 3 prn. 4.Phenytoin (Dilantin) 15-18 mg/kg in normal saline at <1mg/kg/min (max 50 mg/min) IV/IO. Monitor BP and ECG (QTinterval).

5. If seizures continue, intubate and give phenobarbitalloading dose of 15-20 mg/kg IV or 5 mg/kg IV every 15minutes until seizures are controlled or 30 mg/kg is reached.

6.If seizures are refractory, consider midazolam (Versed) infusion (0.1 mg/kg/hr) or general anesthesia with EEG monitoring.

7.Rectal Valium gel formulation< 2 yrs: not recommended2-5 yrs: 0.5 mg/kg6-11 yrs: 0.3 mg/kg >12 yrs: 0.2 mg/kgRound dose to 2.5, 5, 10, 15, and 20 mg/dose. Dose may berepeated in 4-12 hrs if needed. Do not use more than fivetimes per month or more than once every five days.[rectal gel (Diastat): pediatric rectal tip - 5 mg/mL (2.5, 5, 10mg size); adult rectal tip - 5 mg/mL (10, 15, 20 mg size)]

Generalized Seizures Maintenance Therapy:

-Carbamazepine (Tegretol):

<6 yr: initially 10-20 mg/kg/day PO bid, then may increase in5-7 day intervals by 5 mg/kg/day; usual max dose 35mg/kg/day PO q6-8h

6-12 yr: initially 100 mg PO bid (10 mg/kg/day PO bid), thenmay increase by 100 mg/day at weekly intervals; usual maintenance dose 400-800 mg/day PO bid-qid.

>12 yr: initially 200 mg PO bid, then may increase by 200mg/day at weekly intervals; usual maintenance dose 8001200 mg/day PO bid-tid Dosing interval depends on product selected. Susp: q6-8h;tab: q8-12h; tab, chew: q8-12h; tab, ER: q12h[susp: 100 mg/5 mL; tab: 200 mg; tab, chewable: 100 mg; tab, ER: 100, 200, 400 mg] OR

-Divalproex sodium (Depakote, Valproic acid) PO: Initially 1015 mg/kg/day bid-tid, then increase by 5-10 mg/kg/dayweekly as needed; usual maintenance dose 30-60mg/kg/day bid-tid. Up to 100 mg/kg/day tid-qid may be required if other enzyme-inducing anticonvulsants are usedconcomitantly. IV: total daily dose is equivalent to total dailyoral dose but divide q6h and switch to oral therapy as soonas possible. PR: dilute syrup 1:1 with water for use as aretention enema, loading dose 17-20 mg/kg x 1 or maintenance 10-15 mg/kg/dose q8h [cap: 250 mg; cap, sprinkle: 125 mg; inj: 100 mg/mL; syrup:

250 mg/5 mL; tab, DR: 125, 250, 500 mg] OR

-Phenobarbital (Luminal): Loading dose 10-20 mg/kg IV/IM/PO,then maintenance dose 3-5 mg/kg/day PO qd-bid [cap: 16 mg; elixir: 15 mg/5mL, 4 mg/mL; inj: 30 mg/mL, 60

mg/mL, 65 mg/mL, 130 mg/mL; tabs: 8, 15, 16, 30, 32, 60,

65,100 mg] OR

-Phenytoin (Dilantin): Loading dose 15-18 mg/kg IV/PO, thenmaintenance dose 5-7 mg/kg/day PO/IV q8-24h (only sustained release capsules may be dosed q24h)[caps: 30, 100 mg; elixir: 125 mg/5 mL; inj: 50 mg/mL; tab,

chewable: 50 mg]

-Fosphenytoin (Cerebyx): > 5 yrs: loading dose 10-20 mg PEIV/IM, maintenance dose 4-6 mg/kg/day PE IV/IM q12-24h.Fosphenytoin 1.5 mg is equivalent to phenytoin 1 mg whichis equivalent to fosphenytoin 1 mg PE (phenytoin equivalentunit). Fosphenytoin is a water-soluble pro-drug of phenytoinand must be ordered as mg of phenytoin equivalent (PE).[inj: 150 mg (equivalent to phenytoin sodium 100 mg) in 2

mL vial; 750 mg (equivalent to phenytoin sodium 500 mg)

in 10 mL vial]

Partial Seizures and Secondary Generalized Seizures:-Carbamazepine (Tegretol), see above OR -Phenytoin (Dilantin), see above-Phenobarbital (Luminal), see above OR -Valproic acid (Depacon, Depakote, Depakene), see above.-Lamotrigine (Lamictal):Adding to regimen containing valproic acid: 2-12 yrs: 0.15mg/kg/day PO qd-bid weeks 1-2, then increase to 0.3mg/kg/day PO qd-bid weeks 3-4, then increase q1-2 weeksby 0.3 mg/kg/day to maintenance dose 1-5 mg/kg/day (max200 mg/day)>12 yrs: 25 mg PO qOD weeks 1-2, then increase to 25 mgPO qd weeks 3-4, then increase q1-2 weeks by 25-50mg/day to maintenance dose 100-400 mg/day PO qd-bidAdding to regimen without valproic acid: 2-12 yrs: 0.6mg/kg/day PO bid weeks 1-2, then increase to 1.2 mg/kg/dayPO bid weeks 3-4, then increase q1-2 weeks by 1.2mg/kg/day to maintenance dose 5-15 mg/kg/day PO bid(max 400 mg/day)>12 yrs: 50 mg PO qd weeks 1-2, then increase to 50 mg PObid weeks 3-4, then increase q1-2 weeks by 100 mg/day tomaintenance dose 300-500 mg/day PO bid.[tabs: 25, 100, 150, 200 mg]-Primidone (Mysoline) PO: 8 yrs: 50-125 mg/day qhs, increaseby 50-125 mg/day q3-7d; usual dose 10-25 mg/kg/day tid-qid >8 yrs: 125-250 mg qhs; increase by 125-250 mg/day q3-7d,usual dose 750-1500 mg/day tid-qid (max 2 gm/day).[susp: 250 mg/5mL; tabs: 50, 250 mg]

  1. Extras and X-rays: MRI with and without gadolinium, EEGwith hyperventilation, CXR, ECG. Neurology consultation.

  2. Labs: ABG/CBG, CBC, SMA 7, calcium, phosphate, magnesium, liver panel, VDRL, anticonvulsant levels, blood and urineculture. UA, drug and toxin screen.

Therapeutic Serum Levels
Carbamazepine4-12 mcg/mL
Clonazepam 20-80 ng/mL
Ethosuximide 40-100 mcg/mL
Phenobarbital 15-40 mcg/mL
Phenytoin10-20 mcg/mL
Primidone 5-12 mcg/mL
Valproic acid 50-100 mcg/mL

New-Onset Diabetes

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: New-Onset Diabetes Mellitus

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

  1. Nursing: Record labs on a flow sheet. Fingerstick glucose at0700, 1200, 1700, 2100, 0200; diabetic and dietetic teaching.

  2. Diet: Diabetic diet with 1000 kcal + 100 kcal/year of age. 3 mealsand 3 snacks (between each meal and qhs.)

  3. IV Fluids: Hep-lock with flush q shift.

9. Special Medications:

-Goal is preprandial glucose of 100-200 mg/dL

Total Daily Insulin Dosage
<5 Years (U/kg) 5-11 Years (U/kg) 12-18 Years (U/kg)
0.6-0.8 0.75-0.9 0.8-1.5

-Divide 2/3 before breakfast and 1/3 before dinner. Give 2/3 of

total insulin requirement as NPH and give 1/3 as lispro orregular insulin.

  1. Extras and X-rays: CXR. Endocrine and dietary consult.

  2. Labs: CBC, ketones; SMA 7 and 12, antithyroglobulin, antithyroid microsomal, anti-insulin, anti-islet cell antibodies. UA,urine culture and sensitivity; urine pregnancy test; urine ketones.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis

  1. Admit to: Pediatric intensive care unit.

  2. Diagnosis: Diabetic ketoacidosis

  1. Condition: Critical

  2. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  3. Activity:

6. Nursing: ECG monitoring; capillary glucose checks q1-2h untilglucose level is <200 mg/dL, daily weights, inputs and outputs.O2 at 2-4 L/min by NC. Record labs on flow sheet.

  1. Diet: NPO

  2. IV Fluids: 0.9% saline 10-20 mL/kg over 1h, then repeat untilhemodynamiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y stable. Then give 0.45% saline, and replace ½of calculated deficit plus insensible loss over 8h, replace remaining ½ of deficit plus insensible losses over 16-24h. Keep urineoutput >1.0 mL/kg/hour.Add KCL when potassium is <6.0 mEq/dLSerum K+ Infusate KCL

<3 40-60 mEq/L 3-4 30 4-5 20 5-6 10 >6 0

Rate: 0.25-1 mEq KCL/kg/hr, maximum 1 mEq/kg/h or 20 mEq/h.

9.Special Medications:

-Insulin Regular (Humulin) 0.05-0.1 U/kg/hr (50 U in 500 mL NS)continuous IV infusion. Adjust to decrease glucose by 50-100mg/dL/hr.

-If glucose decreases at less than 50 mg/dL/hr, increase insulinto 0.14-0.2 U/kg/hr. If glucose decreases faster than 100mg/dL/hr, continue insulin at 0.05-0.1 U/kg/h and add D5W toIV fluids.

-When glucose approaches 250-300 mg/dL, add D5W to IV.Change to subcutaneous insulin (lispro or regular) whenbicarbonate is >15, and patient is tolerating PO food; do notdiscontinue insulin drip until one hour after subcutaneous doseof insulin.

  1. Extras and X-rays: Portable CXR, ECG. Endocrine and dietary consultation.

  2. Labs: Dextrostixs q1-2h until glucose <200, then q3-6h.Glucose, potassium, phosphate, bicarbonate q3-4h; serumacetone, CBC. UA, urine ketones, culture and sensitivity.

Hematologic and InflammatoryDisorders

Sickle Cell Crisis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Sickle Cell Anemia, Sickle Cell Crisis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if

  5. Activity:

6. Nursing: Age appropriate pain scale.

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids: D5 ½ NS at 1.5-2.0 x maintenance.

  3. Special Medications:

-Oxygen 2-4 L/min by NC.

-Morphine sulfate 0.1 mg/kg/dose (max 10-15 mg) IV/IM/SC q24h prn or follow bolus with infusion of 0.05-0.1 mg/kg/hr prn or0.3-0.5 mg/kg PO q4h prn OR

-Acetaminophen/codeine 0.5-1 mg/kg/dose (max 60 mg/dose) ofcodeine PO q4-6h prn [elixir: 12 mg codeine/5 mL; tabs: 15,30, 60 mg codeine component] OR

-Acetaminophen and hydrocodone [elixir per 5 mL: hydrocodone

2.5 mg, acetaminophen] 167 mg; tabs: Hydrocodone 2.5 mg, acetaminophen 500 mg; Hydrocodone 5 mg, acetaminophen 500 mg; Hydrocodone 7.5 mg, acetaminophen 500 mg, Hydrocodone 7.5 mg, acetaminophen 650 mg, Hydrocodone 10 mg, acetaminophen 500 mg, Hydrocodone 10 mg, acetaminophen 650 mg Children: 0.6 mg hydrocodone/kg/day PO q6-8h prn <2 yr: do not exceed 1.25 mg/dose 2-12 yr: do not exceed 5 mg/dose

>12 yr: do not exceed 10 mg/dose

Patient Controlled Analgesia

-Morphine Basal rate 0.01-0.02 mg/kg/hr Intermittent bolus dose 0.01-0.03 mg/kg Bolus frequency (“lockout interval”) every 6-15 minutes

-Hydromorphone (Dilaudid) Basal rate 0.0015-0.003 mg/kg/hr Intermittent bolus dose 0.0015-0.0045 mg/kg Bolus frequency (“lockout interval”) every 6-15 min

Adjunctive Therapy:

-Hydroxyzine (Vistaril) 0.5-1 mg/kg/dose PO q6h (max 50mg/dose)-Ibuprofen (Motrin) 10 mg/kg/dose PO q6h (max 800 mg/dose)

OR

-Ketorolac (Toradol) 0.4 mg/kg/dose IV/IM q6h (max 30 mg/dose); maximum 3 days, then switch to oral ibuprofen

Maintenance Therapy:

-Hydroxyurea (Hydrea): 15 mg/kg/day PO qd, may increase by 5mg/kg/day q12 weeks to a maximum dose of 35 mg/kg/day.Monitor for myelotoxicity. [caps: 200, 300, 400, 500 mg]

-Folic acid 1 mg PO qd (if >1 yr). -Transfusion PRBC 5 mL/kg over 2h, then 10 mL/kg over 2h,

then check hemoglobin. If hemoglobin is less than 6-8 gm/dL,give additional 10 mL/kg.

-Deferoxamine (Desferal) 15 mg/kg/hr x 48 hours (max 12gm/day) concomitantly with transfusion or 1-2 gm/day SQ over8-24 hrs

-Vitamin C 100 mg PO qd while receiving deferoxamine

-Vitamin E PO qd while receiving deferoxamine <1 yr: 100 IU/day 1-6 yr: 200 IU/day >6 yr: 400 IU/day

-Penicillin VK (Pen Vee K) (prophylaxis for pneumococcalinfections): <3 yrs: 125 mg PO bid; >3 yrs: 250 mg PO bid[elixir: 125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL; tabs: 125, 250, 500 mg]. Ifcompliance with oral antibiotics is poor, use penicillin Gbenzathine 50,000 U/kg (max 1.2 million units) IM every 3weeks. Erythromycin is used if penicillin allergic.

10. Extras and X-rays: CXR.

11. Labs: CBC, blood culture and sensitivity, reticulocyte count, typeand cross, SMA 7, parvovirus titers, UA, urine culture and sensitivity.

Kawasaki Disease

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Kawasaki Disease

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity: Bedrest

6. Nursing: temperature at least q4h

7. Diet:

8. Special Medications:-Immunoglobulin (IVIG) 2 gm/kg/dose IV x 1 dose. Administerdose at 0.02 mL/kg/min over 30 min; if no adverse reaction,increase to 0.04 mL/kg/min over 30 min; if no adversereaction, increase to 0.08 mL/kg/min for remainder of infusion. Defer measles vaccination for 11 months after receiving high dose IVIG. [inj: 50 mg/mL, 100 mg/mL]-Aspirin 100 mg/kg/day PO or PR q6h until fever resolves, then8-10 mg/kg/day PO/PR qd [supp: 60, 120, 125, 130, 195,200, 300, 325, 600, 650 mg; tabs: 325, 500, 650 mg; tab,chew: 81 mg].-Ambubag, epinephrine (0.1 mL/kg of 1:10,000), and diphenhydramine 1 mg/kg (max 50 mg) should be availablefor IV use if an anaphylactic reaction to immunoglobulin occurs.

  1. Extras and X-rays: ECG, echocardiogram, chest X-ray. Rheumatology consult.

  2. Labs: CBC with differential and platelet count. ESR, CBC, liverfunction tests, rheumatoid factor, salicylate levels, blood cultureand sensitivity x 2, SMA 7.

Fluids and Electrolytes

Dehydration

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Dehydration

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

6. Nursing: Inputs and outputs, daily weights. Urine specific gravity q void.

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids: Maintenance Fluids:

<10 kg 100 mL/kg/24h 10-20 kg 1000 mL plus 50 mL/kg/24h for each kg >10 kg >20 kg 1500 mL plus 20 mL/kg/24h for each kg >20 kg.

Electrolyte Requirements:Sodium: 3-5 mEq/kg/dayPotassium: 2-3 mEq/kg/dayChloride: 3 mEq/kg/dayGlucose: 5-10 gm/100 mL water required (D5W - D10W)

Estimation of Dehydration
Degree of Dehydration Mild Moderate Severe
Weight Loss--Infants 5% 10% 15%
Weight Loss--Children 3%-4% 6%-8% 10%
Pulse Normal Slightly increased Very increased
Blood Pressure Normal Normal to orthostatic, >10 mm Hgchange Orthostatic to shock
Behavior Normal Irritable Hyperirritableto lethargic
Thirst Slight Moderate Intense
Mucous Membranes Normal Dry Parched
Tears Present Decreased Absent, sunken eyes
Anterior Fontanelle Normal Normal to sunken Sunken
Degree of Dehydration Mild Moderate Severe
External JugularVein Visible when supine Not visible except withsupraclavicular pressure Not visible even with supraclavicular pressure
Skin Capillaryrefill <2 sec Delayedcapillaryrefill, 2-4 sec (decreasedturgor) Very delayedcapillary refill(>4 sec), tenting; cool skin,acrocyanotic,or mottled
Urine Specific Gravity (SG) >1.020 >1.020; oliguria Oliguria oranuria
Approximate FluidDeficit <50 mL/kg 50-100 mL/kg >100 mL/kg

Electrolyte Deficit Calculation:Na+ deficit = (desired Na - measured Na in mEq/L) x 0.6 x weightin kgK+ deficit = (desired K - measured K in mEq/L) x 0.25 x weight inkgCl! deficit= (desired Cl - measured Cl in mEq/L) x 0.45 x weightin kgFree H2O deficit in hypernatremic dehydration = 4 mL/kg forevery mEq that serum Na >145 mEq/L.

Phase 1, Acute Fluid Resuscitation (Symptomatic Dehydration):-Give NS 20-30 mL/kg IV at maximum rate; repeat fluid bolusesof NS 20-30 mL/kg until adequate circulation.

Phase 2, Deficit and Maintenance Therapy (Asymptomatic dehydration): Hypotonic Dehydration (Na+ <125 mEq/L):

-Calculate total maintenance and deficit fluids and sodium deficit for 24h (minus fluids and electrolytes given in phase 1). Ifisotonic or hyponatremic dehydration, replace 50% over 8hand 50% over next 16h.

-Estimate and replace ongoing losses q6-8h. -Add potassium to IV solution after first void. -Usually D5 ½ NS or D5 1/4 NS saline with 10-40 mEq KCL/liter

60 mL/kg over 2 hours. Then infuse at 6-8 mL/kg/h for 12h.-See hyponatremia, page 69.

Isotonic Dehydration (Na+ 130-150 mEq/L):-Calculate total maintenance and replacement fluids for 24h(minus fluids and electrolytes given in phase 1) and give halfover first 8h, then remaining half over next 16 hours.-Add potassium to IV solution after first void.-Estimate and replace ongoing losses.-Usually D5 ½ NS or D5 1/4 NS with 10-40 mEq KCL/L.

Hypertonic Dehydration (Na+ >150 mEq/L):-Calculate and correct free water deficit and correct slowly. Lowersodium by 10 mEq/L/day; do not reduce sodium by more than15 mEq/L/24h or by >0.5 mEq/L/hr.-If volume depleted, give NS 20-40 mL/kg IV until adequatecirculation, then give ½-1/4 NS in 5% dextrose to replace halfof free water deficit over first 24h. Follow serial serum sodium levels and correct deficit over 48-72h. -Free water deficit: 4 mL/kg x (serum Na+ -145)-Also see "hypernatremia" page 69.-Add potassium to IV solution after first void as KCL.-Usually D5 1/4 NS or D5W with 10-40 mEq/L KCL. Estimate andreplace ongoing losses and maintenance.

Replacement of ongoing losses (usual fluids):-Nasogastric suction: D5 ½ NS with 20 mEq KCL/L or ½ NS withKCL 20 mEq/L.-Diarrhea: D5 1/4 NS with 40 mEq KCl/L

Oral Rehydration Therapy (mild-moderate dehydration <10%):-Oral rehydration electrolyte solution (Rehydralyte, Pedialyte,Ricelyte, Revital Ice) deficit replacement of 60-80 mL/kg PO orvia NG tube over 2h. Provide additional fluid requirement overremaining 18-20 hours; add anticipated fluid losses from stoolsof 10 mL/kg for each diarrheal stool.

Oral Electrolyte Solutions
Product Na (mEq/L) K (mEq/L) Cl (mEq/L)
Rehydralyte 75 20 65
Ricelyte 50 25 45
Pedialyte 45 20 35

Hyperkalemia

  1. Admit to: Pediatric ICU

  2. Diagnosis: Hyperkalemia

  1. Condition:

  2. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  3. Activity:

6. Nursing: Continuous ECG monitoring, inputs and outputs, daily weights.

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids: Hyperkalemia (K+ >7 or EKG Changes)

-Calcium gluconate 50-100 mg/kg (max 1 gm) IV over 5-10minutes or calcium chloride 10-20 mg/kg (max 1 gm) IV over10 minutes.

-Regular insulin 0.1 U/kg plus glucose 0.5 gm/kg IV bolus (as10% dextrose).

-Sodium bicarbonate 1-2 mEq/kg IV over 3-5 min (give aftercalcium in separate IV), repeat in 10-15 min if necessary.-Furosemide (Lasix) 1 mg/kg/dose (max 40 mg IV) IV q6-12h prn,

may increase to 2 mg/kg/dose IV [inj: 10 mg/mL]

-Kayexalate resin 0.5-1 gm/kg PO/PR. 1 gm resin binds 1 mEq ofpotassium.

  1. Extras and X-rays: ECG, dietetics, nephrology consults.

  2. Labs: SMA7, Mg, calcium, CBC, platelets. UA; urine potassium.

Hypokalemia

  1. Admit to: Pediatric ICU

  2. Diagnosis: Hypokalemia

  1. Condition:

  2. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  3. Activity:

6. Nursing: ECG monitoring, inputs and outputs, daily weights.

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids: If serum K >2.5 mEq/L and ECG changes are absent:

Add 20-40 mEq KCL/L to maintenance IV fluids. May give 1-4mEq/kg/day to maintain normal serum potassium. May supplement with oral potassium.

K <2.5 mEq/L and ECG abnormalities:

Give KCL 1-2 mEq/kg IV at 0.5 mEq/kg/hr; max rate 1 mEq/kg/hror 20 mEq/kg/hr in life-threatening situations (whichever issmaller). Recheck serum potassium, and repeat IV bolusesprn; ECG monitoring required.

Oral Potassium Therapy:

-Potassium chloride (KCl) elixir 1-3 mEq/kg/day PO q8-24h [10%soln = 1.33 mEq/mL].

  1. Extras and X-rays: ECG, dietetics, nephrology consults.

  2. Labs: SMA7, Mg, calcium, CBC. UA, urine potassium.

Hypernatremia

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Hypernatremia

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

6. Nursing: Inputs and outputs, daily weights.

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids:

If volume depleted or hypotensive, give NS 20-40 mL/kg IV untiladequate circulation, then give D5 ½ NS IV to replace half ofbody water deficit over first 24h. Correct serum sodium slowlyat 0.5-1 mEq/L/hr. Correct remaining deficit over next 48-72h.

Body water deficit (liter) = 0.6 x (weight kg) x (serum Na -140)

Hypernatremia with ECF Volume Excess: -Furosemide (Lasix) 1 mg/kg IV.-D5 1/4 NS to correct body water deficit.

9. Extras and X-rays: ECG.

10. Labs: SMA 7, osmolality, triglycerides. UA, urine specificgravity; 24h urine Na, K, creatinine.

Hyponatremia

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Hyponatremia

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

6. Nursing: Inputs and outputs, daily weights, neurochecks.

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids: Hyponatremia with Edema (Hypervolemia)(low osmolality <280, urine sodium <10 mM/L: nephrosis, CHF, cirrhosis; urine sodium >20: acute/chronic renal failure):

-Water restrict to half maintenance. -Furosemide (Lasix) 1 mg/kg/dose IV over 1-2 min or 2-3

mg/kg/day PO q8-24h.Hyponatremia with Normal Volume Status (low osmolality <280,urine sodium <10 mM/L: water intoxication; urine sodium >20 mM/L:SIADH, hypothyroidism, renal failure, Addison's disease, stress,drugs):

-0.9% saline with 20-40 mEq KCL/L infused to correct hyponatremia at rate of <0.5 mEq/L/hr) OR use 3% NS in severe hyponatremia [3% NS = 513 mEq/liter].

Hyponatremia with Hypovolemia (low osmolality <280; urine sodium <10 mM/L: vomiting, diarrhea, 3rd space/respiratory/skinloss; urine sodium >20 mM/L: diuretics, renal injury, renal tubularacidosis, adrenal insufficiency, partial obstruction, salt wasting):

-If volume depleted, give NS 20-40 mL/kg IV until adequatecirculation.

-Gradually correct sodium deficit in increments of 10 mEq/L.Determine volume deficit cliniCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y, and determine sodium deficit as below.

-Calculate 24 hour fluid and sodium requirement and give halfover first 8 hours, then give remainder over 16 hours. 0.9%saline = 154 mEq/L

-Usually D5NS 60 mL/kg IV over 2h (this will increaseextracellular sodium by 10 mEq/L), then infuse at 6-8 mL/kg/hrx 12h.

Severe Symptomatic Hyponatremia: -If volume depleted, give NS 20-40 mL/kg until adequate circulation. -Determine volume of 3% hypertonic saline (513 mEq/L) to be

infused as follows: Na(mEq) deficit = 0.6 x (wt kg) x (desired Na - actual Na)Volume of soln (L) = Sodium to be infused (mEq) ÷ mEq/L in

solution -Correct half of sodium deficit slowly over 24h.-For acute correction, the serum sodium goal is 125 mEq/L; max

rate for acute replacement is 1 mEq/kg/hr. Serum Na should beadjusted in increments of 5 mEq/L to reach 125 mEq/L. Thefirst dose is given over 4 hrs. For further correction for serumsodium to above 125 mEq/L, calculate mEq dose of sodiumand administer over 24-48h.

9. Extras and X-rays: CXR, ECG.

10. Labs: SMA 7, osmolality, triglyceride. UA, urine specificgravity. Urine osmolality, Na, K; 24h urine Na, K, creatinine.

Hypophosphatemia

Indications for Intermittent IV Administration:

  1. Serum phosphate <1.0 mg/dL or

  2. Serum phosphate <2.0 mg/dL and patient symptomatic or

  3. Serum phosphate <2.5 mg/dL and patient on ventilator

Treatment of Hypophosphatemia
Dosage of IV Phosphate Serum Phosphate
Low dose 0.08 mM/kg IVover 6 hrs >1 mg/dL
Intermediate dose 0.16 mM/kg IVover 6 hrs 0.24 mM/kg IVover 4 hrs 0.5-1 mg/dL
High Dose 0.36 mM/kg IVover 6 hrs <0.5 mg/dL

IV Phosphate Cations:

Sodium phosphate: Contains sodium 4 mEq/mL, phosphate 3mM/mLPotassium phosphate: Contains potassium 4.4 mEq/mL, phosphate 3 mM/mLMax rate 0.06 mM/kg/hr

Oral Phosphate Replacement

1-3 mM/kg/day PO bid-qid

Potassium Phosphate:Powder (Neutra-Phos-K): phosphorus 250 mg [8 mM] andpotassium 556 mg [14.25 mEq] per packet; Tab (K-Phos Original): phosphorus 114 mg [3.7 mM], potassium 144 mg [3.7 mEq]Sodium Phosphate: Phosphosoda Soln per 100 mL: sodium

phosphate 18 gm and sodium biphosphate 48 gm [containsphosphate 4 mM/mL]

Sodium and Potassium Phosphate: Powd Packet: phosphorus250 mg [8 mM], potassium 278 mg [7.125 mEq], sodium 164mg [7.125 mEq];

Tabs: K-Phos MF: phosphorus 125.6 mg [4 mM], potassium 44.5 mg

[1.1
mEq], sodium 67 mg [2.9 mEq]K-Phos Neutral: phosphorus 250 mg [8 mM], potassium 45 mg
[1.1
mEq], sodium 298 mg [13 mEq]K-Phos No 2: phosphorus 250 mg [8 mM], potassium 88 mg [2.3

mEq], sodium 134 mg [5.8 mEq]Uro-KP-Neutral: phosphorus 250 mg [8 mM], potassium 49.4 mg

[1.27 mEq], sodium 250.5 mg [10.9 mEq]

Hypomagnesemia

Indications for Intermittent IV Administration:

  1. Serum magnesium <1.2 mg/dL

  2. Serum magnesium <1.6 mg/dL and patient symptomatic

  3. Calcium resistant tetany

Magnesium Sulfate, Acute Treatment:

-25-50 mg/kg/dose (0.2-0.4 mEq/kg/dose) IV every 4-6 hrs x 3-4doses as needed (max 2000 mg = 16 mEq/dose); max rate1 mEq/kg/hr (125 mg/kg/hr).

Magnesium sulfate IV maintenance dose: 1-2 mEq/kg/day(125-250 mg/kg/day) in maintenance IV solution.Magnesium PO Maintenance Dose: 10-20 mg/kg/dose elemental magnesium PO qid.Magnesium Chloride (Slow-Mag): mg salt (mEq elemental

magnesium; mg elemental magnesium)Tab, SR: 535 mg (5.2 mEq; 63 mg).Magnesium Gluconate (Magonate): mg salt (mEq elemental

magnesium; mg elemental magnesium)Liq: 1000 mg/5mL (4.8 mEq/5mL; 54 mg).Tab: 500 mg (2.4 mEq; 27 mg).Magnesium Oxide: mg salt (mEq elemental magnesium; mg

elemental magnesium). Tabs: 400 mg (20 mEq; 242 mg), 420 mg (21 mEq; 254 mg),

500 mg (25 mEq; 302 mg).Caps: 140 mg (7 mEq; 84 mg).Magnesium Sulfate: mg salt (mEq elemental magnesium; mg

elemental magnesium) Soln: 500 mg/mL (4.1 mEq/mL; 49.3 mg/mL).

Newborn Care

Neonatal Resuscitation

APGAR Score
Sign 0 1 2
Heart rate per minute Absent Slow (<100) >100
Respirations Absent Slow, irregular Good, crying
Muscle tone Limp Some flexion Active motion
Reflex irritability No response Grimace Cough or sneeze
Color Blue or pale Pink bodywith blue extremities Completelypink
Assess APGAR score at 1 minute and 5 minutes, then continue assessment at 5 minute intervals until APGAR is greaterthan 7.

General Measures:

1. Review history, check equipment, oxygen, masks, laryngo

scope, ET tubes, medications.Vigorous, Crying Infant: Provide routine delivery room care forinfants with heart rate >100 beats per minute, spontaneousrespirations, and good color and tone: warmth, clearing the airway,and drying.

Meconium in Amniotic Fluid:

  1. Deliver the head and suction meconium from the hypopharynxon delivery of the head. If the newly born infant has absent ordepressed respirations, heart rate <100 bpm, or poor muscletone, perform direct tracheal suctioning to remove meconiumfrom the airway.

  2. If no improvement occurs or if the clinical condition deteriorates,bag and mask ventilate with intermittent positive pressure using100% Fi02; stimulate vigorously by drying. Initial breath pressure: 30-40 cm H2O for term infants, 20-30 cm H2O for preterminfants. Ventilate at 15-20 cm H20 at 30-40 breaths per minute.Monitor bilateral breath sounds and expansion.

  3. If spontaneous respirations develop and heart rate is normal,gradually reduce ventilation rate until using onlycontinuouspositive airway pressure (CPAP). Wean to blow-by oxygen, butcontinue blow-by oxygen if the baby remains dusky.

  4. Consider intubation if the heart rate remains <100 beats perminute and is not rising, or if respirations are poor and weak.

Resuscitation:

  1. Provide assisted ventilation with attention to oxygen delivery,inspiratory time, and effectiveness as judged by chest rise ifstimulation does not achieve prompt onset of spontaneousrespirations or the heart rate is <100 bpm.

  2. Provide chest compressions if the heart rate is absent or remains <60 bpm despite adequate assisted ventilation for 30seconds. Coordinate chest compressions with ventilations at aratio of 3:1 and a rate of 120 events per minute to achieveapproximately 90 compressions and 30 breaths per minute.

  3. Chest compressions should be done by two thumb-encirclinghands in newly born infants and older infants. The depth ofchest compression should be one third of the anterior-posteriordiameter of the chest. Chest compressions should be sufficiently deep to generate a palpable pulse.

  4. If condition worsens or if there is no change after 30 seconds,or if mask ventilation is difficult: use laryngoscope to suctionoropharynx and trachea and intubate. Apply positive pressureventilation. Check bilateral breath sounds and chest expansion.Check and adjust ET tube position if necessary. Continuecardiac compressions if heart rate remains depressed. CheckCXR for tube placement.

Hypotension or Bradycardia or Asystole: Epinephrine 0.1-0.3mL/kg [0.01-0.03 mg/kg (0.1 mg/mL = 1:10,000)] IV or ET q35min. Dilute ET dose to 2-3 mL in NS. If infant fails to respond,consider increasing dose to 0.1 mg/kg (0.1 mL/kg of 1 mg/mL =1:1000).

Hypovolemia: Insert umbilical vein catheter and give O negativeblood, plasma, 5% albumin, Ringer’s lactate, or normal saline10 mL/kg IV over 5-10 minutes. Repeat as necessary to correcthypovolemia.

Severe Birth Asphyxia, Mixed Respiratory/Metabolic Acidosis(not responding to ventilatory support; pH <7.2): Give sodium Bicarbonate 1 mEq/kg, dilute 1:1 in sterile water IV q510min as indicated.

Narcotic-Related Depression:

  1. Naloxone (Narcan) 0.1 mg/kg = 0.25 mL/kg (0.4 mg/mLconcentration) or 0.1 mL/kg (1 mg/mL concentration)ET/IV/IM/SC, may repeat q2-3 min. May cause drug withdrawaland seizures in the infant if the mother is a drug abuser.

  2. Repeat administration may be necessary since the duration ofaction of naloxone may be shorter than the duration of action ofthe narcotic.

Endotracheal Tube Sizes
Weight(gm) Gestational Age(weeks) Tube Size (mm) Depth ofInsertion from UpperLip (cm)
< 1000 <28 2.5 6.5-7
1000-2000 28-34 3 37079
2000-3000 34-38 3.5 37111
> 3000 >38 3.5-4.0 >9

Suspected Neonatal Sepsis

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Suspected sepsis

  3. Condition:

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

6. Nursing: Inputs and outputs, daily weights, cooling measuresprn temp >38EC, consent for lumbar puncture.

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids: IV fluids at 1-1.5 times maintenance.

  3. Special Medications: Newborn Infants <1 month old (group B strep, E coli, or group D strep, gram negatives, Listeria monocytogenes):

-Ampicillin and gentamicin OR ampicillin and cefotaxime as below. -Add vancomycin as below if >7 days old and a central line is present.

Neonatal Dosage of Ampicillin:

<1200 gm 0-4 weeks: 100 mg/kg/day IV/IMq12h

1200-2000 gm: <7d: 100 mg/kg/day IV/IM q12h >7d: 150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h

>2000 gm: <7d: 150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h >7d: 200 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6h

Cefotaxime (Claforan):

<1200 grams: 0-4 wks: 100 mg/kg/day IV/IM q12h >

> 1200 grams: 0-7 days: 100 mg/kg/day IV/IM q12h >7 days: 150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h

Gentamicin (Garamycin)/Tobramycin (Nebcin):

<1200 gm 0-4 weeks: 2.5 mg/kg/dose IV/IMq24h

1200-2000 gm: <7d: 2.5 mg/kg/dose IV/IM q12-24h >7d: 2.5 mg/kg/dose IV/IM q12-24h

>2000 gm: <7d: 2.5 mg/kg/dose IV/IM q12-24h >7d: 2.5 mg/kg/dose IV/IM q12h

Neonatal Vancomycin (Vancocin) Dosage:

<1200 gm 0-4 weeks: 15 mg/kg/dose IV q24h

1200-2000 gm: <7d: 10 mg/kg/dose IV q12-18h >7d: 10 mg/kg/dose IV q8-12h

>2000 gm: <7d: 10 mg/kg/dose IV q12h >7d: 10 mg/kg/dose IV q8-12h

Nafcillin (Nafcil):

<1200 gm: 0-4 weeks 50 mg/kg/day IV/IM q12h

1200-2000 gm: <7 days: 50 mg/kg/day IV/IM q12h >7 days: 75 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h

>2000 gm: <7 days: 75 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h >7 days: 100 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6h

Mezlocillin (Mezlin):

<1200 gm: 0-4 weeks 150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q12h

1200-2000 gm: <7 days: 150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q12h >7 days: 225 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h

>2000 gm: <7 days: 150 mg/kg/day IV/IM q12h >7 days: 225 mg/kg/day IV/IM q8h

Amikacin:

<1200 gm 0-4 weeks: 10 mg/kg/dose IV/IM q24h

1200-2000 gm: <7d: 10 mg/kg/dose IV/IM q12-24h >7d: 10 mg/kg/dose IV/IM q12-24h

>2000 gm: <7d: 10 mg/kg/dose IV/IM q12-24h >7d: 10 mg/kg/dose IV/IM q12h

10. Extras and X-rays: CXR

11. Laboratory Studies: CBC, SMA 7, blood culture and sensitivity; UA, culture and sensitivity, antibiotic levels.CSF Tube 1 - Gram stain, bacterial culture and sensitivity, an

tigen screen (1-2 mL).CSF Tube 2 - Glucose protein (1-2 mL). CSF Tube 3 - Cell count and differential (1-2 mL).

Respiratory Distress Syndrome

  1. Provide mechanical ventilation as indicated.

  2. Exogenous surfactant: Prophylactic Therapy: Infants at risk for developing RDS with abirth weight <1250gm.

Rescue Therapy: Treatment of infants with RDS based onrespiratory distress not attributable to any other causes andchest radiographic findings consistent with RDS.

-Beractant (Survanta): 4 mL/kg of birth weight via endotrachealtube then q6h up to 4 doses total [100 mg (4 mL), 200 mg (8mL)]

-Colfosceril (Exosurf): 5 mL/kg of birth weight via endotrachealtube then q12h for 2-3 doses total [108 mg (10 mL)]

-Poractant alfa (Curosurf): first dose 2.5 mL/kg (200mg/kg/dose) of birthweight via endotracheal tube, mayrepeat with 1.25 mL/kg/dose (100 mg/kg/dose) at 12-hourintervals for up to two additional doses [120 mg (1.5 mL),240 mg (3 mL)]

-Calfactant (Infasurf): 3 mL/kg via endotracheal tube, mayrepeat q12h up to a total of 3 doses [6 mL]

Chronic Lung Disease

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Chronic lung disease.

  1. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  2. Activity:

6. Nursing: Inputs and outputs, daily weights

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids: Isotonic fluids at maintenance rate.

  3. Special Medications:Diuretics:

-Furosemide (Lasix) 1 mg/kg/dose PO/IV/IM q6-24h prn [inj: 10mg/mL; oral soln: 10 mg/mL, 40 mg/5mL]-Chlorothiazide (Diuril) 2-8 mg/kg/day IV q12-24h or 20-40mg/kg/day PO q12h [inj: 500 mg; susp: 250 mg/5mL]-Spironolactone (Aldactone) 2-3 mg/kg/day PO q12-24h [tabs:25, 50, 100 mg; extemporaneous suspension]

Steroids:

-Dexamethasone (Decadron) 0.5-1 mg/kg/day IV/IM q6-12h-Prednisone 1-2 mg/kg/day PO q12-24h [soln: 1 mg/mL, 5mg/mL]

11. Extras and X-rays: CXR

12. Labs: CBC, SMA 7.

Hyperbilirubinemia

  1. Admit to:

  2. Diagnosis: Hyperbilirubinemia.

  3. Condition: Guarded.

  4. Vital signs: Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) MD if:

  5. Activity:

6. Nursing: Inputs and outputs, daily weights, monitor skin color,monitor for lethargy and hypotonia

  1. Diet:

  2. IV Fluids: Isotonic fluids at maintenance rate (100-150mL/kg/day). Encourage enteral feedings if possible.

  3. Special Medications:

-Phenobarbital 5 mg/kg/day PO/IV q12-24h [elixir: 15 mg/5mL,20 mg/5mL; inj: 30 mg/mL, 60 mg/mL, 65 mg/mL, 130mg/mL]

-Phototherapy -Exchange transfusion for severely elevated bilirubin

  1. Symptomatic Medications:

  2. Extras and X-rays:

12. Labs: Total bilirubin, indirect bilirubin, albumin, SMA 7. Blood group typing of mother and infant, a direct Coombs' test. Complete blood cell count, reticulocyte count, blood smear. Ininfants of Asian or Greek descent, glucose-6-phosphatedehydrogenase (G6PD) should be measured.

GYNECOLOGY

Surgical Documentation forGynecology

Gynecologic Surgical History

Identifying Data. Age, gravida (number of pregnancies), para (number of deliveries). Chief Compliant. Reason given by patient for seeking surgical care. History of Present Illness (HPI). Describe the course of the patient's illness, including when it began, character of the symptoms; pain onset (gradual or rapid), character of pain (constant, intermittent, cramping, radiating); other factors associated with pain (urination, eating, strenuous activities); aggravating or relieving factors. Other related diseases; past diagnostic testing. Obstetrical History. Past pregnancies, durations and outcomes, preterm deliveries, operative deliveries. Gynecologic History: Last menstrual period, length of regular cycle. Past medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) History (PMH). Past medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) problems, previous surgeries, hospitalizations, diabetes, hypertension, asthma, heart disease. Medications. Cardiac medications, oral contraceptives, estrogen. Allergies. Penicillin, codeine. Family History. medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) problems in relatives. Social History. Alcohol, smoking, drug usage, occupation.

Review of Systems (ROS):General: Fever, fatigue, night sweats. HEENT: Headaches, masses, dizziness. Respiratory: Cough, sputum, dyspnea.Cardiovascular: Chest pain, extremity edema. Gastrointestinal: Vomiting, abdominal pain, melena (blacktarry stools), hematochezia (bright red blood per rectum).Genitourinary: Dysuria, hematuria, discharge. Skin: Easy bruising, bleeding tendencies.

Gynecologic Physical Examination

General: Vital Signs: Temperature, respirations, heart rate, blood pressure. Eyes: Pupils equally round and react to light and accommodation

(PERRLA); extraocular movements intact (EOMI). Neck: Jugular venous distention (JVD), thyromegaly, masses,

lymphadenopathy.Chest: Equal expansion, rales, breath sounds. Heart: Regular rate and rhythm (RRR), first and second heartsounds, murmurs. Breast: Skin retractions, masses (mobile, fixed), erythema,

axillary or supraclavicular node enlargement.Abdomen: Scars, bowel sounds, masses, hepatosplenomegaly,guarding, rebound, costovertebral angle tenderness, hernias.Genitourinary: Urethral discharge, uterus, adnexa, ovaries,

cervix. Extremities: Cyanosis, clubbing, edema.Neurological: Mental status, strength, tendon reflexes, sensory

testing.Laboratory Evaluation: Electrolytes, glucose, liver function tests,INR/PTT, CBC with differential; X-rays, ECG (if >35 yrs or cardiovascular disease), urinalysis.Assessment and Plan: Assign a number to each problem.Discuss each problem, and describe surgical plans for eachnumbered problem, including preoperative testing, laboratorystudies, medications, and antibiotics.

Discharge Summary

Patient's Name: Chart Number: Date of Admission: Date of Discharge: Admitting Diagnosis: Discharge Diagnosis: Name of Attending or Ward Service: Surgical Procedures: History and Physical Examination and Laboratory Data:

Describe the course of the disease up to the time the patient came to the hospital, and describe the physical exam and laboratory data on admission. Hospital Course: Describe the course of the patient's illness while in the hospital, including evaluation, treatment, outcome of treatment, and medications given. Discharged Condition: Describe improvement or deterioration in condition. Disposition: Describe the situation to which the patient will be discharged (home, nursing home). Discharged Medications: List medications and instructions. Discharged Instructions and Follow-up Care: Date of return for follow-up care at clinic; diet, exercise instructions. Problem List: List all active and past problems. Copies: Send copies to attending physician, clinic, consultants and referring physician.

Surgical Progress Note

Surgical progress notes are written in “SOAP” format.

Surgical Progress Note
Date/Time:Post-operative Day Number:Problem List: Antibiotic day number and hyperalimentationday number if applicable. List each surgical problem separately (eg, status-post appendectomy, hypokalemia).Subjective: Describe how the patient feels in the patient's ownwords, and give observations about the patient. Indicate anynew patient complaints, note the adequacy of pain relief, andpassing of flatus or bowel movements. Type of food the patientis tolerating (eg, nothing, clear liquids, regular diet).Objective:Vital Signs: Maximum temperature (Tmax) over the past 24hours. Current temperature, vital signs.Intake and Output: Volume of oral and intravenous fluids, volume of urine, stools, drains, and nasogastric output.Physical Exam:General appearance: Alert, ambulating.Heart: Regular rate and rhythm, no murmurs. Chest: Clear to auscultation. Abdomen: Bowel sounds present, soft, nontender.Wound Condition: Comment on the wound condition (eg, clean and dry, good granulation, serosanguinousdrainage). Condition of dressings, purulent drainage,granulation tissue, erythema; condition of sutures,dehiscence. Amount and color of drainageLab results: White count, hematocrit, and electrolytes, chest x-rayAssessment and Plan: Evaluate each numbered problemseparately. Note the patient's general condition (eg, improving), pertinent developments, and plans (eg, advance diet toregular, chest x-ray). For each numbered problem, discussany additional orders and plans for discharge or transfer.

Procedure Note

A procedure note should be written in the chart when a procedureis performed. Procedure notes are brief operative notes.

Procedure Note
Date and time: Procedure: Indications: Patient Consent: Document that the indications, risks and alternatives to the procedure were explained to the patient.Note that the patient was given the opportunity to ask questions and that the patient consented to the procedure in writing.Lab tests: Electrolytes, INR, CBCAnesthesia: Local with 2% lidocaine Description of Procedure: Briefly describe the procedure,including sterile prep, anesthesia method, patient position,devices used, anatomic location of procedure, and outcome.Complications and Estimated Blood Loss (EBL):Disposition: Describe how the patient tolerated the procedure. Specimens: Describe any specimens obtained and laboratorytests which were ordered.

Discharge Note

The discharge note should be written in the patient’s chart prior todischarge.

Discharge Note
Date/time:Diagnoses:Treatment: Briefly describe treatment provided during hospitalization, including surgical procedures and antibiotic therapy.Studies Performed: Electrocardiograms, CT scans, CXR.Discharge Medications:Follow-up Arrangements:

Postoperative Check

A postoperative check should be completed on the evening aftersurgery. This check is similar to a daily progress note.

Example Postoperative Check
Date/time:Postoperative CheckSubjective: Note any patient complaints, and note the adequacy of pain relief.Objective:General appearance:Vitals: Maximum temperature in the last 24 hours (Tmax),current temperature, pulse, respiratory rate, blood pressure. Urine Output: If urine output is less than 30 cc per hour,more fluids should be infused if the patient is hypovolemic.Physical Exam:Chest and lungs:Abdomen: Wound Examination: The wound should be examined for excessive drainage or bleeding, skin necrosis, condition ofdrains. Drainage Volume: Note the volume and characteristics of drainage from Jackson-Pratt drain or other drains.Labs: Post-operative hematocrit value and other labs.Assessment and Plan: Assess the patient’s overall conditionand status of wound. Comment on abnormal labs, and discuss treatment and discharge plans.

Total Abdominal Hysterectomy and Bilateral Salpingo-oophorectomy OperativeReport

Preoperative Diagnosis: 45 year old female, gravida 3 para 3,with menometrorrhagia unresponsive to medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) therapy.Postoperative Diagnosis: Same as above Operation: Total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingooophorectomy

Surgeon:Assistant: Anesthesia: General endotracheal Findings At Surgery: Enlarged 10 x 12 cm uterus with multiplefibroids. Normal tubes and ovaries bilaterally. Frozen sectionrevealed benign tissue. All specimens sent to pathology.Description of Operative Procedure: After obtaining informedconsent, the patient was taken to the operating room and placedin the supine position, given general anesthesia, and prepped anddraped in sterile fashion.

A Pfannenstiel incision was made 2 cm above the symphysispubis and extended sharply to the rectus fascia. The fascial incision was bilaterally incised with curved Mayo scissors, and therectus sheath was separated superiorly and inferiorly by sharp andblunt dissection. The peritoneum was grasped between two Kellyclamps, elevated, and incised with a scalpel. The pelvis wasexamined with the findings noted above. A Balfour retractor wasplaced into the incision, and the bowel was packed away withmoist laparotomy sponges. Two Kocher clamps were placed on the cornua of the uterus and used for retraction.

The round ligaments on both sides were clamped, sutured with#0 Vicryl, and transected. The anterior leaf of the broad ligamentwas incised along the bladder reflection to the midline from bothsides, and the bladder was gently dissected off the lower uterinesegment and cervix with a sponge stick.

The retroperitoneal space was opened and the ureters wereidentified bilaterally. The infundibulopelvic ligaments on both sideswere then doubly clamped, transected, and doubly ligated with #OVicryl. Excellent hemostasis was observed. The uterine arterieswere skeletonized bilaterally, clamped with Heaney clamps,transected, and sutured with #O Vicryl. The uterosacral ligamentswere clamped bilaterally, transected, and suture ligated in a similarfashion.

The cervix and uterus was amputated, and the vaginal cuffangles were closed with figure-of-eight stitches of #O Vicryl, andthen were transfixed to the ipsilateral cardinal and uterosacralligament. The vaginal cuff was closed with a series of interrupted#O Vicryl, figure-of-eight sutures. Excellent hemostasis was obtained.

The pelvis was copiously irrigated with warm normal saline,and all sponges and instruments were removed. The parietalperitoneum was closed with running #2-O Vicryl. The fascia wasclosed with running #O Vicryl. The skin was closed with stables.Sponge, lap, needle, and instrument counts were correct timestwo. The patient was taken to the recovery room, awake and instable condition. Estimated Blood Loss (EBL): 150 cc Specimens: Uterus, tubes, and ovaries Drains: Foley to gravity Fluids: Urine output - 100 cc of clear urineComplications: None Disposition: The patient was taken to the recovery room in stable condition.

Endometrial Sampling and Dilation andCurettage

The endometrial cavity is frequently evaluated because of abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pain, infertility, or pregnancy complications. The most common diagnostic indications for obtainingendometrial tissue include abnormal uterine bleeding,postmenopausal bleeding, endometrial dating, endometrial cellson Papanicolaou smear, and follow-up of women undergoingmedical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) therapy for endometrial hyperplasia.

I. Endometrial biopsy

A. The office endometrial biopsy offers a number of advantagesto D&C because it can be done with minimal to no cervical dilation, anesthesia is not required, and the cost is approximately one-tenth of a hospital D&C.

B. Numerous studies have shown that the endometrium is adequately sampled with these techniques.

C. Pipelle endometrial sampling device is the most popularmethod for sampling the endometrial lining. The device isconstructed of flexible polypropylene with an outer sheathmeasuring 3.1 mm in diameter.

D. The device is placed in the uterus through an undilatedcervix. The piston is fully withdrawn to create suction and,while the device is rotated 360 degrees, the distal port isbrought from the fundus to the internal os to withdraw asample. The device is removed and the distal aspect of theinstrument is severed, allowing for the expulsion of the sample into formalin.

E. The detection rates for endometrial cancer by Pipelle inpostmenopausal and premenopausal women are 99.6 and 91percent, respectively.

F. D&C should be considered when the endometrial biopsy isnondiagnostic, but a high suspicion of cancer remains (eg,hyperplasia with atypia, presence of necrosis, or pyometra).

II.Dilation and curettage

A. Dilation and curettage is performed as either a diagnostic ortherapeutic procedure. Indications for diagnostic D&C include:

  1. A nondiagnostic office biopsy in women who are at highrisk of endometrial carcinoma.

  2. Insufficient tissue for analysis on office biopsy.

  3. Cervical stenosis prevents the completion of an officebiopsy.

B. Diagnostic D&Cs are usually performed with hysteroscopy toobtain a visual image of the endometrial cavity, exclude focaldisease, and prevent missing unsuspected polyps.

C. Examination under anesthesia. After anesthesia has been administered, the size, shape, and position of the uterus arenoted, with particular attention to the axis of the cervix andflexion of the fundus. The size, shape, and consistency of theadnexa are determined. The perineum, vagina, and cervixare then prepared with an aseptic solution and vaginal retractors are inserted into the vagina.

D. Operative technique. A D&C is performed with the womanin the dorsal lithotomy position.

  1. Endocervical curettage (ECC) is performed before dilation of the cervix. A Kevorkian-Younge curette is introduced into the cervical canal up to the internal os.Curetting of all four quadrants of the canal should beconducted and the specimen placed on a Telfa pad.

  2. Sounding and dilation. Traction is applied to align theaxis of the cervix and the uterine canal. The uterus should be sounded to document the size and confirm the position.The sound should be held between the thumb and the index finger to avoid excessive pressure.

  3. Cervical dilation is then performed. The dilator is graspedin the middle of the instrument with the thumb and index finger. The cervix is gradually dilated beginning with the#13 French Pratt dilator. The dilator should be inserted through the internal os, without excessively entering theuterine cavity.

  4. Sharp curettage is performed systematiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y beginning atthe fundus and applying even pressure on the endometrial

surface along the entire length of the uterus to the internalcervical os. The endometrial tissue is placed on a Telfapad placed in the vagina. Moving around the uterus in asystematic fashion, the entire surface of the endometriumis sampled. The curettage procedure is completed whenthe "uterine cry" (grittiness to palpation) is appreciated onall surfaces of the uterus. Curettage is followed by blindextraction with Randall polyp forceps to improve the rate ofdetection of polyps.

General Gynecology

Management of the AbnormalPapanicolaou Smear

The Papanicolaou (Pap) smear is the standard screening test forcervical cancer and premalignant lesions. Refinements in processing(eg, ThinPrep) have improved sensitivity and specificity. The Papsmear functions to screen for cellular abnormalities that are associated with an increased risk. Treatment decisions are then made based upon diagnostic results from histologic examination, usuallyfrom colposcopiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y directed biopsies.

I. Clinical evaluation

A. Pap smear report

  1. A description of specimen type. Conventional Pap smear,liquid based cytology, or other.

  2. A description of specimen adequacy.

  3. A general categorization (optional). Negative, epithelial cellabnormality, or other (see interpretation below).

  4. An interpretation/result. Either the specimen is negative forintraepithelial lesions and malignancy (although organismsor reactive changes may be present) or there is an epithelialcell abnormality or there is another finding.

  5. A description of any ancillary testing or automated reviewthat was performed (eg, human papillomavirus [HPV], AutoPap).

  6. Educational notes and suggestions by the pathologist.

B. Specimen adequacy. The adequacy of the Pap smearspecimen is typiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y reported as follows.

  1. Unsatisfactory. Smears that are "unsatisfactory for evaluation" may have scanty cellular material or may be obscuredby inflammation, blood, or debris so that more than 75percent of the cells are uninterpretable. Unsatisfactory Papsmears should always be repeated in two to four months. Ifthe cells are obscured by inflammation, an attempt shouldbe made to clear the inflammatory process (eg, treat cervicitis or vaginitis) prior to repeating the smear.

  2. Endocervical cells not present. The presence of metaplastic and endocervical cells indicates adequatesampling of the transformation zone of the cervix, the areaat risk for neoplasia. Most women without an endocervical/transformation zone component presentshould be screened with a repeat Pap test in 12 months.However, repeat testing in six months is advised in thefollowing situations:

a.
A previous Pap smear result of ASC-US or worse withoutthree subsequent negative Pap smears.
b.
A previous Pap smear with an unexplained glandularabnormality.
c.
An HPV test result positive for a high-risk type within theprevious 12 months.
d.
Inability to clearly visualize or sample the endocervicalcanal.
e.
Immunosuppression.
f.
Insufficient frequency of previous screening (eg, failure tobe screened at least biennially).

3. Blood or inflammation present. Women with partiallyobscuring blood or inflammation should have a repeat testin six months if they meet any of the above criteria.

4. Intraepithelial abnormalities

a. Squamous epithelial cell abnormalities

(1)
Atypical squamous cells (ASC) may be of undetermined significance (ASC-US) or suspicious for HSIL(ASC-H)
(2)
Low-grade intraepithelial lesions (LSIL)
(3)
High-grade intraepithelial lesions (HSIL)

b. Glandular cell abnormalities

(1)
Atypical glandular cells (AGC): may be endocervical,endometrial, or other glandular cells
(2)
Endocervical adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS)
(3)
Adenocarcinoma
c.
The LSIL category includes changes consistent withhuman papillomavirus (HPV), mild dysplasia, or CIN I(grade 1 cervical intraepithelial neoplasia). HSIL includeschanges consistent with moderate or severe dysplasia,CIN II or III, and carcinoma in situ (CIS).

5. Hyperkeratosis or parakeratosis on an otherwise negativePap smear is not a marker for significant CIN and may berelated to infection or trauma with inflammation, such as from use of a diaphragm. The Pap smear should be repeated in 6 to 12 months.

Bethesda 2001 Pap Smear Report
Interpretation ResultNegative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancyInfection (Trichomonas vaginalis, Candida spp., shift in flora suggestive of bacterial vaginosis, Actinomyces spp., cellular changesconsistent with Herpes simplex virus)Other Non-neoplastic Findings:Reactive cellular changes associated with inflammation (includestypical repair) radiation, intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD)Glandular cells status post-hysterectomyAtrophyOther Endometrial cells (in a woman >40 years of age) Epithelial Cell AbnormalitiesSquamous CellAtypical squamous cells -of undetermined significance (ASC-US)-cannot exclude HSIL (ASC-H)Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) encompassing:HPV/mild dysplasia/CIN 1High-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) encompassing: moderate and severe dysplasia, CIS/CIN 2 and CIN 3with features suspicious for invasion (if invasion is suspected)Squamous cell carcinomaGlandular Cell Atypical-Endocervical cells (not otherwise specified or specify incomments)-Glandular cell (not otherwise specified or specify in comments)-Endometrial cells (not otherwise specified or specify in comments)-Glandular cells (not otherwise specified or specify in comments)Atypical-Endocervical cells, favor neoplastic-Glandular cells, favor neoplasticEndocervical adenocarcinoma in situ Adenocarcinoma (endocervical, endometrial, extrauterine, nototherwise specified (not otherwise specified)Other Malignant Neoplasms (specify)
Management of the Abnormal Papanicolaou Smear
Result Action
Specimen adequacy
Satisfactory for evaluation Routine follow-up
Unsatisfactory for evaluation Repeat smear
No endocervical cells Follow-up in one year for low-riskwomen with a previously normalsmear; repeat in 4-6 months forhigh-risk women
Atypical cells
Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) HPV testing with referral tocolposcopy if positive for high-riskHPV type; if negative for high-riskHPV type, then repeat cytology in12 months
Special circumstances Postmenopausal women withatrophic epitheliium may betreated with topical estrogen followed by repeat cervical cytologyone week after completing treatment
ASC-H Immediate referral to colposcopy
Atypical glandular cells (AGS) Immediate referral to colposcopywith sampling of the endocervicalcanal. Women over age 35 andany woman with unexplainedvaginal bleeding should alsohave an endometrial biopsy
Intraepithelial neoplasia
High grade Immediate referral for colposcopy
Low grade Immediate referral for colposcopy, except adolescentsand postmenopausal women
Endometrial cells Endometrial biopsy in selected cases
Other malignant cells Referral to a gynecologiconcologist
II.
Atypical squamous cells (ASC) is divided into ASC-US, whichare qualified as "of undetermined significance," and ASC-H, inwhich a high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) cannotbe excluded.
A.
ASC requires further evaluation, but it does not requiretreatment. This cytologic diagnosis is common and frequentlyassociated with spontaneously resolving, self-limited disease.The risk of invasive cancer is low, 0.1 to 0.2 percent. However, 5 to 17 percent of patients with ASC and 24 to 94percent of those with ASC-H will have CIN II or III at biopsy;therefore, further investigation is necessary to determine ifunderlying high-grade dysplasia is present.
B.
Evaluation of ASC-US. Reflex HPV testing is the preferredapproach. Reflex testing refers to concurrent collection ofcytology and HPV samples with actual testing for HPV only ifindicated by cytology results. If liquid-based cytology is used,reflex HPV testing can be performed on the same specimen.
    1. Women with a positive test for high- (including intermedi

    2. ate) risk type HPV DNA are evaluated by colposcopy. Thesensitivity of this approach for detection of CIN II/III is 83to 100 percent.
  1. Women who test negative for high-risk HPV DNA can befollowed with a repeat cervical cytology in 12 months.

Management of Women with Combined Test Screening
Results of cytology/HPV Recommended follow-up
Negative/NegativeNegative/NegativeASCUS/NegativeASCUS/PositiveGreater than ASCUS/ Positive ornegative Routine screening in 3 yearsRepeat combined test in 6-12months* Repeat cytology in 12 months**ColposcopyColposcopy
*If Negative/Negative, then resume screening in 3 yearsIf ASCUS/Negative, then repeat combined test in 12 monthsIf greater than ASCUS/Negative, then colposcopyIf any cytology result/Positive, the colposcopy
**Follow-up depends on cytology results
HPV = Human Papillomarvirus. Positive means high-risk types arepresent. Negative means high-risk types are not present

C. Special circumstances

  1. Infection or reactive changes. When an infectious organism is identified, the patient should be contacted todetermine if she is symptomatic. Antibiotic therapy is indicated for symptomatic infection. Asymptomatictrichomonas infection should be treated. Most patients withonly reactive changes due to inflammation will not have anorganism identified on Pap smear. The Pap smear doesnot need to be repeated unless the patient is HIV positive.

  2. Atrophic epithelium (a normal finding in postmenopausalwomen) is often characterized by nuclear enlargement,which meets one of the pathologic criteria for ASC. Administration of estrogen (eg, 0.3 mg conjugated estrogen applied as vaginal cream nightly for four weeks [1/8thof the applicator]) causes atypical atrophic epithelium tomature into normal squamous epithelium.

a. Hormonal therapy given for vaginal atrophy should befollowed by repeat cervical cytology one week aftercompleting treatment. If negative, cytology should berepeated again in four to six months. If both tests arenegative, the woman can return to routine screeningintervals, but if either test is positive for ASC-US orgreater, she should be referred for colposcopy.

3. Immunosuppressed women, including all women whoare HIV positive, with ASC-US should be referred forimmediate colposcopy.

D. Management after colposcopy/biopsy. Colposcopy/biopsyof women with ASC-US will either yield a histologic abnormality (eg, CIN II or III), which should be treated as appropriateor show no abnormal findings. In the latter case, if HPVtesting was not performed or showed a low-risk type, thenfollow-up cytological testing in 12 months is recommended.

1. Management of women who test positive for high-risk HPVtypes, but have CIN I or less on colposcopy/biopsy consists of HPV testing at 12 months postprocedure withrepeat colposcopic referral if the HPV results are positivefor high-risk types.

E. Women with ASC-H on cytological examination should bereferred for colposcopy. Biopsy proven CIN is treated. If nolesion is identified, the cytology sample, colposcopy, and anybiopsy specimens should be reviewed. If review of cytologyconfirms ASC-H, follow-up HPV DNA testing in 12 months isacceptable. Colposcopy should be repeated for ASC-US orgreater on cytology or a positive test for high-risk HPV DNA.

III. Low- and high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia. All women who present with lower genital tract intraepithelial lesions shouldbe offered HIV testing because of the high incidence of neoplasia in this population.

A. Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions

  1. Immediate referral for colposcopy is the recommended management for LSIL (see exceptions for postmenopausal women, adolescents, and pregnant women below).

  2. Endocervical curettage should be done in nonpregnantwomen in whom: the transformation zone cannot be fullyvisualized, the lesion extends into the endocervical canal, or no lesion is identified on colposcopy. It is also an acceptable procedure in nonpregnant women in whom alesion is identified in the transformation zone.

B. Special circumstances

  1. Postmenopausal women may forgo immediate colposcopy and be managed by HPV DNA testing at 12months with referral to colposcopy for positive results(high- risk HPV DNA types). Women with LSIL who haveclinical or cytologic evidence of atrophy may be treatedwith intravaginal estrogen, followed by repeat cytologyseven days after completion of therapy, with referral tocolposcopy if an abnormality persists. If repeat cytology isnormal, then another cytology test should be obtained infour to six months. The woman can return to routine surveillance if both tests are normal, but should be referred for colposcopy if either test is ASC-US or worse.

  2. Adolescents. Initial colposcopy may be deferred inadolescents. Instead, they may be managed with HPVDNA testing at 12 months with referral to colposcopy forpositive results (high-risk HPV DNA types).

  3. Pregnant women with LSIL are managed in a similar fashion to those with HSIL (see below). Colposcopyshould be performed, with biopsy and endocervicalcurettage performed for any lesion suspicious for HSIL ormore severe disease.

C. High-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions

    1. HSIL may also be referred to as CIN II or III, severe

    2. dysplasia, or carcinoma in situ (CIS). All women with HSILshould be referred for colposcopy and endocervical curettage.
  1. If colposcopy reveals no lesion or only biopsy proven CINI, then cytology, colposcopy, and biopsies should bereviewed. A cytological diagnosis of HSIL without colposcopic or histologic confirmation of significant dysplasia (CIN II or above) requires a diagnostic excisional procedure in nonpregnant women.

IV. Atypical glandular cells

A. A report of atypical glandular cells (AGC) indicates thepresence of glandular cells that could originate from theendocervical or endometrial region. AGC is divided into twosubcategories:

  1. AGC (specify endocervical, endometrial, or glandular cellsnot otherwise specified [NOS]).

  2. AGC, favor neoplastic (specify endocervical or NOS).

B. Additional categories for glandular cell abnormalities are:

  1. Endocervical adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS).

  2. Adenocarcinoma.

C. Significance. A smear with adenocarcinoma in situ is associated with a premalignant or malignant lesion of theendocervix or endometrium in 10 to 39 percent of cases.

D. Evaluation

  1. All women with atypical endocervical or glandular cells orAIS should be referred for colposcopy and sampling ofthe endocervical canal. Women over age 35 and youngerwomen with AGC and unexplained or anovulatory bleeding also need an endometrial biopsy.

  2. Women with only atypical endometrial cells on cytologycan be initially evaluated with endometrial biopsy only,rather than colposcopy.

  3. Positive findings, such as any grade of CIN on biopsy,should be managed as appropriate.

4. Negative colposcopy/endocervical curettage

a.
AGC not otherwise specified. Women with AGC NOS who have a normal initial colposcopic evaluationand endocervical biopsy can be followed with cervicalcytology at four to six month intervals until four consecutive tests are negative for intraepithelial lesions ormalignancy. They are then followed with routine surveillance.
b.
AGC favor neoplasia or AIS. A cold-knife conization is the best procedure for subsequent evaluation ofAGC lesions at high risk of associated adenocarcinoma, such as AGC favor neoplasia or AIS.
  1. Endocervical adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS) andadenocarcinoma are separate categories of glandular cellabnormality. Colposcopy with directed biopsy is required.A diagnostic excisional procedure is also needed.

  2. Endometrial cells. Occasionally, normal appearingendometrial cells will be reported on a Pap smear. Thepresence of these cells is reported only in women >40 years of age. In these cases, endometrial biopsy shouldbe performed.

E. Follow-up after treatment. Follow-up Pap smears arerecommended every three to four months for the first yearafter any treatment for dysplasia. Women with cervical dysplasia present at the LEEP or cone margin or in theconcomitant endocervical curettage also need follow-upcolposcopy with endocervical sampling every six months forone year. Routine surveillance can be resumed if there is norecurrence after the first year. Surveillance consists of Papsmears on a yearly basis for most women and on a twice-yearly basis for high-risk women (ie, HIV positive).

References: See page 155.

Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia

Cervical intraepithelial abnormalities are usually first detected bycytology screening. Treatment of cervical intraepithelial abnormalities is typiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y undertaken after a histologic abnormality has beenproven by tissue biopsy.

I. Atypical squamous cells (ASC) is a cytological screeningdiagnosis that does not require treatment. ASC does requirefurther evaluation to exclude the presence of higher- gradedisease that might require treatment. Treatment may be initiated if there is biopsy proven dysplasia.

II. Low-grade lesions. Low-grade precursors of cervical cancerhave been Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)ed low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions(LSIL), low-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN I), andmild dysplasia.

A. Management

  1. Expectant management is preferred for the reliable patient with biopsy-confirmed CIN I in whom the entirelesion and limits of the transformation zone are completely visualized (ie, satisfactory colposcopic examination). If treatment is desired, ablative or excisional modalities are appropriate. An excisional procedure is thepreferred diagnostic/therapeutic approach in all women ifcolposcopic examination is unsatisfactory.

  2. Expectant management of women with biopsy confirmed CIN I and satisfactory colposcopy requires follow-up HPV testing at 12 months. In addition:

a.
Colposcopy should be repeated if repeat cytologyshows ASC or greater or HPV DNA testing is positivefor a high-risk type.
b.
After a negative HPV DNA test, annual screening maybe resumed.

3. A lesion that persists after 1 to 2 years or any progression during the follow-up period suggests the need fortreatment. Close follow-up should be continued for persistent CIN I; treatment should be provided if there isevidence of disease progression. Ablation and excisionare both acceptable treatment modalities for women withsatisfactory colposcopic examinations. Endocervicalsampling is recommended before ablation and excisionfor recurrent disease after ablation.

III. High-grade lesions. High-grade squamous intraepitheliallesions (HSIL) include CIN II or III, moderate and severedysplasia, and carcinoma in situ. Forty-three percent of CIN IIlesions regress if left untreated, while 22 percent progress tocarcinoma in situ or invasive cancer. For CIN III, the spontaneous regression rate is 32 percent, and 14 percent progress toinvasive cancer if untreated.

A. Management

  1. The entire transformation zone should be removed. An assessment should be made as to whether a patientqualifies for ablative therapy or if she requires conizationas an excisional procedure for further diagnostic workup. In many cases conization also provides the appropriate treatment.

  2. Ablative therapy. The most commonly used ablativetreatment techniques are cryotherapy and laser ablation.Requirements for ablative treatment are:

a.
Accurate histologic diagnosis/no discrepancy between cytology/colposcopy/histology.
b.
No evidence of microinvasion/invasion.
c.
No evidence of a glandular lesion (adenocarcinomain situ or invasive adenocarcinoma).
d.
Satisfactory colposcopy (the transformation zone isfully visualized).
e.
The lesion is limited to the ectocervix and seen in its entirety.
f.
There is no evidence of endocervical involvement as determined by colposcopy/ECC

3. Excisional therapy. Indications for excisional therapy are:

a.
Suspected microinvasion
b.
Unsatisfactory colposcopy (the transformation zone isnot fully visualized).
c.
Lesion extending into the endocervical canal.
d.
ECC revealing dysplasia
e.
Lack of correlation between the Pap smear andcolposcopy/biopsies.
f.
Suspected adenocarcinoma in situ.
g.
Colposcopist unable to rule out invasive disease.
h.
Recurrence after an ablative procedure.

4. Excisional treatment can be performed by cold-knifeconization using a scalpel, laser conization, or the loopelectrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP). A diagnosticexcisional procedure and sampling of the endocervicalcanal in women in whom the complete transformation isnot visualized is important to exclude cancer.

IV. Adenocarcinoma in situ

A. The Bethesda 2001 system classifies glandular cell abnormalities into four subcategories:

  1. Atypical glandular cells (AGC): endocervical,endometrial, or glandular cells not otherwise specified(NOS).

  2. AGC, favor neoplastic, endocervical, endometrial, orNOS.

  3. Endocervical adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS).

  4. Adenocarcinoma.

B. Cold-knife conization is the best method for diagnosis ofAIS. Adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS) of the cervix is characterized by endocervical glands lined by atypical columnarepithelial cells.

C. If conization margins are positive, repeat conization shouldbe performed in patients who wish to maintain fertility andwho understand the risk of leaving residual disease. Repeat conizations should also be considered if cone marginsare negative in the setting of a positive ECC. If fertility isnot desired, hysterectomy should be performed.

V. Recommendations for initial management of cervicalintraepithelial lesions

A. CIN I. Expectant management is recommended for thereliable patient in whom the entire lesion and limits of thetransformation zone are completely visualized. Expectantmanagement consists of repeat cytology at 6 and 12months or HPV testing at 12 months.

B. CIN II, III, squamous carcinoma in situ. Loopelectrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) is the preferredtechnique. Ablative procedures are limited to the patientwith biopsy confirmed CIN and satisfactory colposcopy.

C. Adenocarcinoma in situ, suspected microinvasion, unsatisfactory colposcopy, lesion extending into the endocervicalcanal: Cold- knife cone biopsy is the preferred technique.

References: See page 155.

Colposcopy

The colposcope provides an illuminated, magnified view of thecervix, vagina, and vulva. Malignant and premalignant epitheliumhas a characteristic contour, color, and vascular pattern. The goalof colposcopy is to identify precancerous and cancerous lesions.

I. Indications for colposcopy

A. Abnormal cytological abnormalities:

  1. Persistent atypical squamous cells of undeterminedsignificance (ASCUS) or ASCUS with positive high-riskHPV subtypes.

  2. ASCUS suggestive of high-grade lesion (ASC-H).

  3. Atypical glandular cells (AGC).

  4. Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL).

  5. High-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL).

B. Evaluation of an abnormal appearing cervix, vagina, or vulva.

II. Contraindications. Active cervicitis should be treated before the examination. Biopsies are relatively contraindicated inpatients on anticoagulations, who have a known bleedingdisorder, or who are pregnant.

III.Procedure. The medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) history is obtained, including age,gravity, parity, last menstrual period, use and type of contraception, prior cervical cytology results, allergies, significant medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)history including HIV status and history of anyimmunosuppressive conditions or medications, other medications, prior cervical procedures, and smoking history. If there is any possibility of pregnancy, a pregnancy test is obtained.

A. Repeat cervical cytology. If the patient has not had cervicalcytology in the last six weeks, a repeat assessment of cervical cytology is done.

B. Visualization. The cervix and vagina are examined with abright light, and then with the colposcope. Cotton soaked insaline is used to cleanse the cervix. Pigmented areas andobvious lesions are noted. The cervix is examined for areas of erosion, true leukoplakia, pigmented lesions, or areas ofobvious ulceration or exophytic growth. Three to 5 percentacetic acid is applied to the cervix using cotton swabs andthe cervix is reexamined. A green-filter examination is performed to accentuate abnormal vasculature. Iodine solution (Lugol's or Schiller's) is used to improve visualization ofabnormal areas.

C. The clinician first identifies the squamocolumnar junction ortransformation zone (TZ) . The clinician should differentiatebetween the grey-pink appearing ectocervix and the pink-redappearing endocervix. The region where the two cell typesmeet, termed the squamocolumnar junction, defines the"transformation" zone. The ability to see the transformationzone dictates whether the colposcopic exam is adequate (ie,the entire squamocolumnar junction is visible circumferentially around the os) or unsatisfactory.

D. The upper one-third of the vagina, in particular the lateralfornices, is also inspected.

E. Biopsies are obtained from the most abnormal appearingareas. Biopsies should be taken from inferior to superior toavoid bleeding over the target sites.

F. Endocervical curettage is performed in patients with HSIL,AGUS, adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS) on the endocervicalmargin following cone biopsy, LSIL but no visible lesion, andthose with an unsatisfactory colposcopic examination. A longstraight curette is used to scrape the four quadrants of theendocervical canal and an endocervical brush is employedto remove any exfoliated tissue. Endocervical curettage innot performed in pregnant women.

References: See page 155.

Contraception

Approximately 31 percent of births are unintended; about 22percent were "mistimed," while 9 percent were "unwanted."

I. Hormonal contraceptive methods other than oral contraceptives

A. Contraceptive vaginal ring (NuvaRing) delivers 15 μgethinyl estradiol and 120 μg of etonogestrel daily.

  1. Advantages of the ring include rapid return to ovulationafter discontinuation, lower doses of hormones, ease and convenience, and improved cycle control. Benefits, risks,and contraindications to use are similar to those with combined oral contraceptive pills, except for the convenience of monthly administration.

  2. In women who have not used hormonal contraception inthe past month, the ring is inserted on or before day 5 ofthe menstrual cycle, even if bleeding is not complete, andan additional form of contraception should be used for thefollowing 7 days. New rings should be inserted at approximately the same time of day the ring was removed theprevious week.

  3. If the ring accidentally falls out, it may be rinsed with coolor warm water and replaced within 3 hours. If it is out ofplace for more than 3 hours contraceptive effectivenessdecreases, so an additional form of contraception shouldbe used until the ring has been inserted for 7 continuousdays. If the ring remains in place more than 3 but <4 weeks, it is removed and a new one is inserted after a 1week ring-free interval; if the ring is left in place for >4weeks, backup contraception is recommended until anew ring has been in place for 7 days.

  4. Despite the low ethinyl estradiol dose, in a study in 16women the contraceptive vaginal ring resulted in equivalent suppression of serum gonadotropin concentrationsand ovulation as a combined oral contraceptive containing ethinyl estradiol (30 mcg) and desogestrel (150 mcg).

  5. In a multicenter study, including 2322 women, the PearlIndex of efficacy in compliant patients was 0.8. Irregularbleeding was uncommon (5.5% of cycles), and withdrawal bleeding occurred in 98.5% of cycles. Compliancewas 86%, with 15% of women discontinuing treatmentbecause of an adverse event, most commonly device-related discomfort, headache, or vaginal discharge/vaginitis. Only 2.5% of discontinuations weredevice related.

B. Transdermal contraceptive patch

  1. Ortho Evra is a transdermal contraceptive patch, whichis as effective as oral contraceptives. Ortho Evra delivers20 μg of ethinyl estradiol and 150 μg of norelgestromindaily for 6 to 13 months. Compliance is better with thepatch. The patch is applied at the beginning of the menstrual cycle. A new patch is applied each week for 3weeks; week 4 is patch-free. It is sold in packages of 3patches. Effectiveness is similar to oral contraceptives.

  2. Breakthrough bleeding during the first two cycles,dysmenorrhea, and breast discomfort are more commonin women using the patch. A reaction at the site of application of the patch occurs in 1.9 percent of the women.Contraceptive efficacy may be slightly lower in womenweighing more than 90 kg.

C. Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA, Depo-Provera) is an injectable contraceptive. Deep intramuscularinjection of 150 mg results in effective contraception forthree to four months. Effectiveness is 99.7 percent.

D. Women who receive the first injection after the seventh dayof the menstrual cycle should use a second method ofcontraception for seven days. The first injection should beadministered within five days after the onset of menses, inwhich case alternative contraception is not necessary.

E. Ovulation is suppressed for at least 14 weeks after injection of a 150 mg dose of DMPA. Therefore, injections shouldrepeated every three months. A pregnancy test must beadministered to women who are more than two weeks late for an injection.

F. Return of fertility can be delayed for up to 18 months aftercessation of DMPA. DMPA is not ideal for women who maywish to become pregnant soon after cessation of contraception.

G. Amenorrhea, irregular bleeding, and weight gain (typiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y 1to 3 kg) are the most common adverse effects of DMPA.Adverse effects also include acne, headache, and depression. Fifty percent of women report amenorrhea by one year.Persistent bleeding may be treated with 50 μg of ethinyl estradiol for 14 days.

H. Medroxyprogesterone acetate/estradiol cypionate(MPA/E2C, Lunelle) is a combined (25 mg MPA and 5 mgE2C), injectable contraceptive.

1. Although monthly IM injections are required, MPA/E2Chas several desirable features:

a.
It has nearly 100 percent effectiveness in preventing pregnancy.
b.
Fertility returns within three to four months after it isdiscontinued.
c.
Irregular bleeding is less common than in womengiven MPA alone.
  1. Weight gain, hypertension, headache, mastalgia, or othernonmenstrual complaints are common.

  2. Lunelle should be considered for women who forget totake their birth control pills or those who want a discreetmethod of contraception. The initial injection should begiven during the first 5 days of the menstrual cycle orwithin 7 days of stopping oral contraceptives. Lunelleinjections should be given every 28 to 30 days; 33 daysat the most.

II. Oral contraceptives

A. Combined (estrogen-progestin) oral contraceptives arereliable, and they have noncontraceptive benefits, whichinclude reduction in dysmenorrhea, iron deficiency, ovariancancer, endometrial cancer.

Combination Oral Contraceptives
Drug Progestin, mg Estrogen
Monophasic combinations
Ortho-Novum 1 /3521, 28 Norethindrone (1) Ethinyl estradiol (35)
Ovcon 35 21, 28 Norethindrone (0.4) Ethinyl estradiol (35)
Brevicon 21, 28 Norethindrone (0.5) Ethinyl estradiol (35)
Modicon 28 Norethindrone (0.5) Ethinyl estradiol (35)
Necon 0.5/35E 21, 28 Norethindrone (0.5) Ethinyl estradiol (35)
Nortrel 0.5/35 28 Norethindrone (0.5) Ethinyl estradiol (35)
Necon 1 /35 21, 28 Norethindrone (1) Ethinyl estradiol (35)
Norinyl 1 /35 21, 28 Norethindrone (1) Ethinyl estradiol (35)
Nortrel 1 /35 21, 28 Norethindrone (1) Ethinyl estradiol (35)
Loestrin 1 /20 21, 28 Norethindrone acetate (1) Ethinyl estradiol (20)
Microgestin 1 /20 28 Norethindrone acetate (1) Ethinyl estradiol (20)
Loestrin 1.5/30 21, 28 Norethindrone acetate (1.5) Ethinyl estradiol (30)
Microgestin 1.5/30 28 Norethindrone acetate (1.5) Ethinyl estradiol (30)
Alesse 21, 28 Levonorgestrel (0.1) Ethinyl estradiol (20)
Aviane 21, 28 Levonorgestrel (0.1) Ethinyl estradiol (20)
Lessina 28 Levonorgestrel (0.1) Ethinyl estradiol (20)
Levlite 28 Levonorgestrel (0.1) Ethinyl estradiol (20)
Necon 1/50 21, 28 Norethindrone (1) Mestranol (50)
Norinyl 1150 21, 28 Norethindrone (1) Mestranol (50)
Ortho-Novum 1/50 28 Norethindrone (1) Mestranol (50)
Ovcon 50 28 Norethindrone (1) Ethinyl estradiol (50)
Cyclessa 28 Desogestrel (0.1) Ethinyl estradiol (25)
Apri 28 Desogestrel (0.15) Ethinyl estradiol (30)
Desogen 28 Desogestrel (0.15) Ethinyl estradiol (30)
Ortho-Cept 21, 28 Desogestrel (0.15) Ethinyl estradiol (30)
Yasmin 28 Drospirenone (3) Ethinyl estradiol (30)
Demulen 1 /35 21, 28 Ethynodiol diacetate(1) Ethinyl estradiol (35)
Zovia 1 /35 21, 28 Ethynodiol diacetate(1) Ethinyl estradiol (35)
Drug Progestin, mg Estrogen
Demulen 1/50 21, 28 Ethynodiol diacetate(1) Ethinyl estradiol (50)
Zovia 1 /50 21, 28 Ethynodiol diacetate(1) Ethinyl estradiol (50)
Levlen 21, 28 Levonorgestrel (0.15) Ethinyl estradiol (30)
Levora 21, 28 Levonorgestrel (0.15) Ethinyl estradiol (30)
Nordette 21, 28 Levonorgestrel (0.15) Ethinyl estradiol (30)
Ortho-Cyclen 21, 28 Norgestimate (0.25) Ethinyl estradiol (35)
Lo/Ovral 21, 28 Norgestrel (0.3) Ethinyl estradiol (30)
Low-Ogestrel 21, 28 Norgestrel (0.3) Ethinyl estradiol (30)
Ogestrel 28 Norgestrel (0.5) Ethinyl estradiol (50)
Ovral 21, 28 Norgestrel (0.5) Ethinyl estradiol (50)
Seasonale Levonorgestrel (0.15) Ethinyl estradiol(0.03)
Multiphasic Combinations
Kariva 28 Desogestrel (0.15) Ethinyl estradiol (20,0, 10)
Mircette 28 Desogestrel (0.15) Ethinyl estradiol (20,0, 10)
Tri-Levlen 21, 28 Levonorgestrel (0.05,0.075, 0.125) Ethinyl estradiol (30,40, 30)
Triphasil 21, 28 Levonorgestrel (0.05,0.075, 0.125) Ethinyl estradiol (30,40, 30)
Trivora 28 Levonorgestrel (0.05,0.075, 0.125) Ethinyl estradiol (30,40, 30)
Necon 10/11 21, 28 Norethindrone (0.5, 1) Ethinyl estradiol (35)
Ortho-Novum 10/1128 Norethindrone (0.5, 1) Ethinyl estradiol (35)
Ortho-Novum 7/7/721, 28 Norethindrone (0.5,0.75, 1) Ethinyl estradiol (35)
Tri-Norinyl 21, 28 Norethindrone (0.5, 1,0.5) Ethinyl estradiol (35)
Estrostep 28 Norethindrone acetate (1) Ethinyl estradiol (20,30, 35)
Ortho Tri-Cyclen 21,28 Norgestimate (0.18,0.215, 0.25) Ethinyl estradiol (35)

B. Pharmacology

  1. Ethinyl estradiol is the estrogen in virtually all OCs.

  2. Commonly used progestins include norethindrone,norethindrone acetate, and levonorgestrel. Ethynodioldiacetate is a progestin, which also has significant estrogenic activity. New progestins have been developed withless androgenic activity; however, these agents may beassociated with deep vein thrombosis.

C. Mechanisms of action

  1. The most important mechanism of action is estrogen-induced inhibition of the midcycle surge of gonadotropinsecretion, so that ovulation does not occur.

  2. Another potential mechanism of contraceptive action issuppression of gonadotropin secretion during thefollicular phase of the cycle, thereby preventing follicularmaturation.

  3. Progestin-related mechanisms also may contribute to thecontraceptive effect. These include rendering theendometrium is less suitable for implantation and makingthe cervical mucus less permeable to penetration by sperm.

D. Contraindications

1. Absolute contraindications to OCs:

a.
Previous thromboembolic event or stroke
b.
History of an estrogen-dependent tumor
c.
Active liver disease
d.
Pregnancy
e.
Undiagnosed abnormal uterine bleeding
f.
Hypertriglyceridemia
g.
Women over age 35 years who smoke heavily (greaterthan 15 cigarettes per day)

2. Screening requirements. Hormonal contraception canbe safely provided after a careful medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) history andblood pressure measurement. Pap smears are not required before a prescription for OCs.

E. Efficacy. When taken properly, OCs are a very effectiveform of contraception. The actual failure rate is 2 to 3 percent due primarily to missed pills or failure to resume therapy after the seven-day pill-free interval.

Noncontraceptive Benefits of Oral Contraceptive Pills
Dysmenorrhea Mittelschmerz MetrorrhagiaPremenstrual syndrome Hirsutism Ovarian and endometrial cancer Functional ovarian cysts Benign breast cysts Ectopic pregnancyAcne Endometriosis

F. Drug interactions. The metabolism of OCs is accelerated by phenobarbital, phenytoin and rifampin. The contraceptiveefficacy of an OC is likely to be decreased in women takingthese drugs. Other antibiotics (with the exception ofrifampin) do not affect the pharmacokinetics of ethinylestradiol.

G. Preparations

  1. There are two types of oral contraceptive pills: combination pills that contain both estrogen and progestin, andthe progestin-only pill ("mini-pill"). Progestin-only pills,which are associated with more breakthrough bleedingthan combination pills, are rarely prescribed except inlactating women. Combination pills are packaged in 21day or 28-day cycles. The last seven pills of a 28-daypack are placebo pills.

  2. Monophasic combination pills contain the same dose ofestrogen and progestin in each of the 21 hormonallyactive pills. Current pills contain on average 30 to 35 μg.Pills containing less than 50 μg of ethinyl estradiol are "low-dose" pills.

  3. 20 µg preparations. Several preparations containing only 20 μg of ethinyl estradiol are now available (Lo-Estrin 1/20, Mircette, Alesse, Aviane). These are oftenused for perimenopausal women who want contraceptionwith the lowest estrogen dose possible. These preparations provide enough estrogen to relieve vasomotorflashes. Perimenopausal women often experience hotflashes and premenstrual mood disturbances during theseven-day pill-free interval. Mircette, contains 10 μg ofethinyl estradiol on five of the seven "placebo" days,which reduces flashes and mood symptoms.

  4. Seasonale is a 91-day oral contraceptive. Tablets containing the active hormones are taken for 12 weeks (84days), followed by 1 week (7 days) of placebo tablets.Seasonale contains levonorgestrel (0.15 mg) and ethinylestradiol (0.03 mg). Many women, especially in the firstfew cycles, have more spotting between menstrual periods. Seasonale is as effective and safe as traditional birth control pills.

  5. Yasmin contains 30 mcg of ethinyl estradiol anddrospirenone. Drospirenone has anti-mineralocorticoidactivity. It can help prevent bloating, weight gain, andhypertension, but it can increase serum potassium.Yasmin is contraindicated in patients at risk forhyperkalemia due to renal, hepatic, or adrenal disease.Yasmin should not be combined with other drugs that canincrease potassium, such as ACE inhibitors, angiotensinreceptor blockers, potassium-sparing diuretics, potassiumsupplements, NSAIDs, or salt substitutes.

6. Third-generation progestins

a.
More selective progestins include norgestimate,desogestrel, and gestodene. They have some structural modifications that lower their androgen activity.Norgestimate (eg, Ortho-Cyclen or Tri-Cyclen) anddesogestrel (eg, Desogen or Ortho-Cept) are the leastandrogenic compounds in this class. The newprogestins are not much less androgenic thannorethindrone.
b.
The newer OCs are more effective in reducing acneand hirsutism in hyperandrogenic women. They aretherefore an option for women who have difficultytolerating older OCs. There is an increased risk ofdeep venous thrombosis with the use of these agents,and they should not be routinely used.

H. Recommendations for oral contraceptives

  1. Monophasic OCs containing the second generationprogestin, norethindrone (Ortho-Novum 1/35) are recommended when starting a patient on OCs for the first time.This progestin has very low androgenicity when compared to other second generation progestins, and alsocompares favorably to the third generation progestins inandrogenicity.

  2. The pill should be started on the first day of the period toprovide the maximum contraceptive effect in the firstcycle. However, most women start their pill on the firstSunday after the period starts. Some form of back-upcontraception is needed for the first month if one choosesthe Sunday start, because the full contraceptive effectmight not be provided in the first pill pack.

Factors to Consider in Starting or Switching Oral Contraceptive Pills
ObjectiveAction Products that achieve the objective
To minimize high risk ofthrombosis Select a product with alower dosage of estrogen. Alesse, Aviane, Loestrin 1/20, Levlite, Mircette
To minimize nausea, breast tenderness or vascular headaches Select a product with alower dosage of estrogen. Alesse, Aviane, Levlite, Loestrin 1/20, Mircette
ObjectiveAction Products that achieve the objective
To minimize spotting orbreakthroughbleeding Select a product with ahigher dosage of estrogen or a progestin with greater potency. Lo/Ovral, Nordette,Ortho-Cept, Ortho-Cyclen, Ortho Tri-Cyclen
To minimize androgenic effects Select a product containing a low-dosenorethindrone or ethynodiol diacetate. Brevicon, Demulen 1/35,Modicon, Ovcon 35
To avoid dyslipidemia Select a product containing a low-dosenorethindrone or ethynodiol diacetate. Brevicon, Demulen 1/35,Modicon, Ovcon 35
Instructions on the Use of Oral Contraceptive Pills
Initiation of use (choose one):The patient begins taking the pills on the first day of menstrual bleeding.The patient begins taking the pills on the first Sunday after menstrualbleeding begins. The patient begins taking the pills immediately if she is definitely notpregnant and has not had unprotected sex since her last menstrualperiod.
Missed pillIf it has been less than 24 hours since the last pill was taken, the patienttakes a pill right away and then returns to normal pill-taking routine. If it has been 24 hours since the last pill was taken, the patient takesboth the missed pill and the next scheduled pill at the same time. If it has been more than 24 hours since the last pill was taken (ie, two ormore missed pills), the patient takes the last pill that was missed, throwsout the other missed pills and takes the next pill on time. Additionalcontraception is used for the remainder of the cycle.
Additional contraceptive methodUse an additional contraceptive method for the first 7 days after initiallystarting oral contraceptive pills. Use an additional contraceptive method for 7 days if more than 12 hourslate in taking an oral contraceptive pill. Use an additional contraceptive method while taking an interacting drugand for 7 days thereafter.

III. Barrier methods

A. Barrier methods of contraception, such as the condom,diaphragm, cervical cap, and spermicides, have fewer sideeffects than hormonal contraception.

B. The diaphragm and cervical cap require fitting by a clinicianand are only effective when used with a spermicide. Theymust be left in the vagina for six to eight hours after intercourse; the diaphragm needs to be removed after this period of time, while the cervical cap can be left in place for upto 24 hours. These considerations have caused them to be less desirable methods of contraception. A major advantageof barrier contraceptives is their efficacy in protectingagainst sexually transmitted diseases and HIV infection.

IV. Intrauterine devices

A. The currently available intrauterine devices (IUDs) are safeand effective methods of contraception:

  1. Copper T380 IUD induces a foreign body reaction in theendometrium. It is effective for 8 to 10 years.

  2. Progesterone-releasing IUDs inhibit sperm survival andimplantation. They also decrease menstrual blood lossand relieve dysmenorrhea. Paragard is replaced every 10 years. Progestasert IUDs must be replaced after one year.

  3. Levonorgestrel IUD (Mirena) provides effective contraception for five years.

B. Infection

  1. Women who are at low risk for sexually transmitted diseases do not have a higher incidence of pelvic inflammatory disease with use of an IUD. An IUD should not beinserted in women at high risk for sexually transmittedinfections, and women should be screened for the presence of sexually transmitted diseases before insertion.

  2. Contraindications to IUDs:

a.
Women at high risk for bacterial endocarditis (eg,rheumatic heart disease, prosthetic valves, or a historyof endocarditis).
b.
Women at high risk for infections, including those withAIDS and a history of intravenous drug use.
c.
Women with uterine leiomyomas which alter the sizeor shape of the uterine cavity.

V. Lactation

A. Women who breast-feed have a delay in resumption ofovulation postpartum. It is probably safest to resume contraceptive use in the third postpartum month for those whobreast-feed full time, and in the third postpartum week forthose who do not breast-feed.

B. A nonhormonal contraceptive or progesterone-containinghormonal contraceptive can be started at any time; anestrogen-containing oral contraceptive pill should not bestarted before the third week postpartum because womenare still at increased risk of thromboembolism prior to thistime. Oral contraceptive pills can decrease breast milk,while progesterone-containing contraceptives may increasebreast milk.

VI. Progestin-only agents

A. Progestin-only agents are slightly less effective than combination oral contraceptives. They have failure rates of 0.5percent compared with the 0.1 percent rate with combination oral contraceptives.

B. Progestin-only oral contraceptives (Micronor, Nor-QD,Ovrette) provide a useful alternative in women who cannottake estrogen. Progestin-only contraception is recommended for nursing mothers. Milk production is unaffectedby use of progestin-only agents.

C. If the usual time of ingestion is delayed for more than threehours, an alternative form of birth control should be used for the following 48 hours. Because progestin-only agents aretaken continuously, without hormone-free periods, mensesmay be irregular, infrequent or absent.

VII. Postcoital contraception

A. Emergency postcoital contraception consists of administration of drugs within 72 hours to women who have had unprotected intercourse (including sexual assault), or to thosewho have had a failure of another method of contraception(eg, broken condom).

B. Preparations

  1. Menstrual bleeding typiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y occurs within three days afteradministration of most forms of hormonal postcoital contraception. A pregnancy test should be performed ifbleeding has not occurred within four weeks.

  2. Preven Emergency Contraceptive Kit includes four combination tablets, each containing 50 μg of ethinylestradiol and 0.25 mg of levonorgestrel, and a pregnancytest to rule out pregnancy before taking the tablets. Instructions are to take two of the tablets as soon as possible within 72 hours of coitus, and the other two tablets twelve hours later.

  3. An oral contraceptive such as Ovral (two tablets twelvehours apart) or Lo/Ovral (4 tablets twelve hours apart)can also be used.

  4. Nausea and vomiting are the major side effects.Meclizine 50 mg, taken one hour before the first dose,reduces nausea and vomiting but can cause some sedation.

  5. Plan B is a pill pack that contains two 0.75 mg tablets oflevonorgestrel to be taken twelve hours apart. The cost iscomparable to the Preven kit ($20). This regimen may bemore effective and better tolerated than an estrogen-progestin regimen.

  6. Copper T380 IUD. A copper intrauterine device (IUD)placed within 120 hours of unprotected intercourse canalso be used as a form of emergency contraception. Anadvantage of this method is that it provides continuingcontraception after the initial event.

Emergency Contraception
1. Consider pretreatment one hour before each oral contraceptive pilldose, using one of the following orally administered antiemetic agents: Prochlorperazine (Compazine), 5 to 10 mgPromethazine (Phenergan), 12.5 to 25 mgTrimethobenzamide (Tigan), 250 mgMeclizine (Antivert) 50 mg 2. Administer the first dose of oral contraceptive pill within 72 hours ofunprotected coitus, and administer the second dose 12 hours afterthe first dose. Brand name options for emergency contraceptioninclude the following: Preven Kit – two pills per dose (0.5 mg of levonorgestrel and100 µg of ethinyl estradiol per dose)Plan B – one pill per dose (0.75 mg of levonorgestrel per dose) Ovral – two pills per dose (0.5 mg of levonorgestrel and 100 µgof ethinyl estradiol per dose)Nordette – four pills per dose (0.6 mg of levonorgestrel and 120µg of ethinyl estradiol per dose)Triphasil – four pills per dose (0.5 mg of levonorgestrel and120 µg of ethinyl estradiol per dose)

VIII. Sterilization

A. Sterilization is the most common and effective form of contraception. While tubal ligation and vasectomy may bereversible, these procedures should be considered permanent.

B. Essure microinsert sterilization device is a permanent,hysteroscopic, tubal sterilization device which is 99.9 percent effective. The coil-like device is inserted in the office under local anesthesia into the fallopian tubes where it isincorporated by tissue. After placement, women use alternative contraception for three months, after which hysterosalpingography is performed to assure correct placement.Postoperative discomfort is minimal.

C. Tubal ligation is usually performed as a laparoscopicprocedure in outpatients or in postpartum women in thehospital. The techniques used are unipolar or bipolar coagulation, silicone rubber band or spring clip application, andpartial salpingectomy.

D. Vasectomy (ligation of the vas deferens) can be performedin the office under local anesthesia. A semen analysisshould be done three to six months after the procedure toconfirm azoospermia.

References: See page 155.

Acute Pelvic Pain

I. Clinical evaluation

A. Assessment of acute pelvic pain should determine the patient’s age, obstetrical history, menstrual history, characteristics of pain onset, duration, and palliative or aggravatingfactors.

B. Associated symptoms may include urinary or gastrointestinal symptoms, fever, abnormal bleeding, or vaginal discharge.

C. Past medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) history. Contraceptive history, surgical history,gynecologic history, history of pelvic inflammatory disease,ectopic pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases should bedetermined. Current sexual activity and practices should beassessed.

D. Method of contraception

  1. Sexual abstinence in the months preceding the onset ofpain lessons the likelihood of pregnancy-related etiologies.

  2. The risk of acute PID is reduced by 50% in patients takingoral contraceptives or using a barrier method of contraception. Patients taking oral contraceptives are at decreased

risk for an ectopic pregnancy or ovarian cysts.

E. Risk factors for acute pelvic inflammatory disease. Agebetween 15-25 years, sexual partner with symptoms of urethritis, prior history of PID.

II. Physical examination

A. Fever, abdominal or pelvic tenderness, and peritoneal signsshould be sought.

B. Vaginal discharge, cervical erythema and discharge, cervicaland uterine motion tenderness, or adnexal masses or tenderness should be noted.

III. Laboratory tests

A. Pregnancy testing will identify pregnancy-related causes ofpelvic pain. Serum beta-HCG becomes positive 7 days afterconception. A negative test virtually excludes ectopic pregnancy.

B. Complete blood count. Leukocytosis suggest an inflammatory process; however, a normal white blood count occurs in56% of patients with PID and 37% of patients with appendicitis.

C. Urinalysis. The finding of pyuria suggests urinary tract infection. Pyuria can also occur with an inflamed appendix or fromcontamination of the urine by vaginal discharge.

D. Testing for Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis are necessary if PID is a possibility.

E. Pelvic ultrasonography is of value in excluding the diagnosis of an ectopic pregnancy by demonstrating an intrauterinegestation. Sonography may reveal acute PID, torsion of theadnexa, or acute appendicitis.

F. Diagnostic laparoscopy is indicated when acute pelvic painhas an unclear diagnosis despite comprehensive evaluation.

III. Differential diagnosis of acute pelvic pain

A. Pregnancy-related causes. Ectopic pregnancy, spontaneous, threatened or incomplete abortion, intrauterine pregnancy with corpus luteum bleeding.

B. Gynecologic disorders. PID, endometriosis, ovarian cysthemorrhage or rupture, adnexal torsion, Mittelschmerz,uterine leiomyoma torsion, primary dysmenorrhea, tumor.

C. Nonreproductive tract causes

  1. Gastrointestinal. Appendicitis, inflammatory bowel disease, mesenteric adenitis, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis.

  2. Urinary tract. Urinary tract infection, renal calculus.

IV. Approach to acute pelvic pain with a positive pregnancytest

A. In a female patient of reproductive age, presenting with acutepelvic pain, the first distinction is whether the pain ispregnancy-related or non-pregnancy-related on the basis of a serum pregnancy test.

B. In the patient with acute pelvic pain associated with pregnancy, the next step is localization of the tissue responsiblefor the hCG production. Transvaginal ultrasound should beperformed to identify an intrauterine gestation. Ectopic pregnancy is characterized by a noncystic adnexal mass and fluidin the cul-de-sac.

V.Approach to acute pelvic pain in non-pregnant patients witha negative HCG

A. Acute PID is the leading diagnostic consideration in patientswith acute pelvic pain unrelated to pregnancy. The pain isusually bilateral, but may be unilateral in 10%. Cervical motion tenderness, fever, and cervical discharge are commonfindings.

B. Acute appendicitis should be considered in all patientspresenting with acute pelvic pain and a negative pregnancytest. Appendicitis is characterized by leukocytosis and ahistory of a few hours of periumbilical pain followed by migration of the pain to the right lower quadrant. Neutrophiliaoccurs in 75%. A slight fever exceeding 37.3EC, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, and rebound tenderness may be present.

C. Torsion of the adnexa usually causes unilateral pain, butpain can be bilateral in 25%. Intense, progressive pain combined with a tense, tender adnexal mass is characteristic. There is often a history of repetitive, transitory pain. Pelvicsonography often confirms the diagnosis. Laparoscopicdiagnosis and surgical intervention are indicated.

D. Ruptured or hemorrhagic corpus luteal cyst usuallycauses bilateral pain, but it can cause unilateral tendernessin 35%. Ultrasound aids in diagnosis.

E. Endometriosis usually causes chronic or recurrent pain, butit can occasionally cause acute pelvic pain. There usually isa history of dysmenorrhea and deep dyspareunia. Pelvicexam reveals fixed uterine retrodisplacement and tenderuterosacral and cul-de-sac nodularity. Laparoscopy confirmsthe diagnosis.

References: See page 155.

Chronic Pelvic Pain

Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) is menstrual or nonmenstrual pain of atleast six months' duration, located below the umbilicus and severe enough to cause functional disability or require treatment.Gynecologic conditions account for 90 percent of cases of CPP.Gastrointestinal diseases, such as irritable bowel syndrome, arethe next most common category.

I. Differential diagnosis

A. Endometriosis is the most common etiology of CPP inpopulations with a low prevalence of sexually transmittedinfections. Endometriosis is found in up to 70 percent ofpatients with CPP.

B. Chronic pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is one of the most common gynecologic conditions causing CPP inpractices with a high prevalence of sexually transmitteddiseases.

C. Mental-health(Buy now from <a href="http://www.drugswell.com/wow/index.php">http://www.drugswell.com</a>) issues. Somatization disorder, drug seekingbehavior and narcotic dependency, physical and sexualabuse, and depression are commonly diagnosed in womenwith CPP.

D. Fibromyalgia. Women with fibromyalgia sometimes presentwith CPP. Two criteria must be present for diagnosing fibromyalgia: The patient reports pain in all four quadrantsof the body, and detection of at least 11 separate areas (eg,knees, shoulders, elbows, neck) that are tender to physical pressure.

E. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal syndrome characterized by chronic abdominal pain and alteredbowel habits in the absence of any organic cause.

F. Interstitial cystitis is characterized by urinary urgency,bladder discomfort, and a sense of inadequate emptying ofthe bladder. Dyspareunia is often present. Cystoscopy isdiagnostic.

Some Causes of Chronic Pelvic Pain by System
Gynecologic Systemic diseases
Endometriosis AdenomyosisLeiomyomataAdhesions Ovarian cyst/massPelvic inflammatory diseaseEndosalpingiosisCervical stenosis Pelvic relaxation FibromyalgiaDepressionSomatization Substance abuse
Urologic Interstitial cystitisUrethral disorders Gastrointestinal Irritable bowel Diverticulitis Inflammatory bowel diseaseConstipationHernia

II. History

A. Characteristics of the pain should be noted, includinglocation, intensity quality, duration, temporal pattern, precipitating factors (eg, exertion, sexual activity, menses,pregnancy), relationship to urination and defecation, andradiation.

B. Hormonal versus nonhormonal

  1. Pelvic pain associated with severe dysmenorrhea and/orpain at the time of ovulation is likely due toendometriosis or adenomyosis. Women withendometriosis report premenstrual spotting,dyspareunia, dyschezia, poor relief of symptoms withnonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, progressivelyworsening symptoms, inability to attend work or schoolduring menses, and the presence of pelvic pain unrelated to menses more often than women with primarydysmenorrhea.

  2. Nonhormonally responsive diseases should be considered for pain that is not related to menses, includingchronic pelvic inflammatory disease, adhesions/inflammation from previous pelvic surgery, irritablebowel syndrome, diverticulitis, fibromyalgia, and interstitial cystitis.

III.Physical examination

A. Surgical scars, hernias, and masses should be sought.Pelvic examination should include an evaluation for physical findings consistent with endometriosis, adenomyosis, orleiomyomata. Tender areas should be identified.

B. Physical findings characteristic of endometriosis are uterosacral ligament abnormalities (eg, nodularity or thickening, focal tenderness), lateral displacement of the cervixcaused by endometriosis, and cervical stenosis.

C. Adnexal enlargement may be palpable if an endometrioma is present.

D. Nongynecologic physical findings that are observed morefrequently among women with endometriosis are red haircolor, scoliosis, and dysplastic nevi.

E. Adenomyosis and leiomyomata. Women with adenomyosis can have a slightly enlarged, globular, tenderuterus. Uterine myomas are characterized by enlarged,mobile uterus with an irregular contour.

F. Chronic pelvic inflammatory disease is characterized byuterine tenderness or cervical motion tenderness. Adhesions resulting from a surgical procedure can cause pain,especially with movement of viscera. An adnexal masssuggests an ovarian neoplasm. Adnexa tenderness suggests an inflammatory process. In women with uterineprolapse, the cervix/uterus may be observed protrudingfrom the vagina.

Physical Examination in Women with Chronic Pelvic Pain
Pelvic Examination
Tenderness present?Nodularity present?Pelvic mass?
Abdominal examination
Abdominal distension? Tenderness present?
Straight leg raising test
Does leg rasing induce pain in the right or left lower quadrant?

IV.Laboratory and imaging tests for women with CPP include:

A. Complete blood count with differential and erythrocytesedimentation rate

B. Pregnancy test.

C. Urinalysis.

D. Pelvic ultrasound.

E. Additional evaluations include testing for chlamydia andgonorrhea infection and CA-125 (if ascites present).

F. Pelvic ultrasound is highly sensitive for detecting pelvicmasses, including both ovarian cysts and uterineleiomyomas.

V. Pharmacologic treatment

A. High probability of endometriosis

  1. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications should beprescribed at doses in the upper end of the dose range(eg, ibuprofen 800 mg orally every six hours). If the firstNSAID tried is not effective, another should be given.

  2. Oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) prescribed as monthlycycles.

  3. OCPs prescribed as "long cycles," with three to fourmonths of continuous dosing of the active pill followed byone week off the pill are effective in women who failcyclic therapy.

  4. OCPs and NSAIDS can be prescribed individually or incombination.

Summary of Recommendations for Treatment of ChronicPelvic Pain American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
Intervention Indication
Combined oral contraceptive pills Primary dysmenorrhea
GnRH agonists Endometriosis, irritable bowel syndrome (may be given empiriCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y in women with symptomsconsistent with endometriosis)
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatorydrugs Dysmenorrhea, moderate pain
Progestins (daily, high dose) Endometriosis, pelvic congestionsyndrome
Laparoscopic ablation/resectionof endometriosis Stage I-III endometriosis
Presacral neurectomy Centrally located dysmenorrhea
Uterine nerve ablation Centrally located dysmenorrhea
Adjunctive psychotherapy CPP

B. Second-line agents consist of one of the following:

1. Continuous progestin treatment. Medroxyprogesteroneacetate (50 mg orally daily), norethindrone acetate (eg,Aygestin 5 mg orally daily), norgestrel (eg, Ovrette

0.075 mg orally daily), or norethindrone (eg, Micronor,Nor-QD 0.35 mg orally daily) for a two-month trial.

  1. Danazol 200 to 400 mg/day in two divided doses initially, may be increased to 800 mg/day in two divideddoses to achieve amenorrhea. Therapy may be continued up to nine months.

  2. Empiric use of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone(GnRH) agonist analogue (eg, leuprolide [3.75 mgintramuscularly every four weeks] or nafarelin [200 µgintranasally twice daily]) for 2 months. An add-backregimen should be considered.

  3. Surgical intervention, such as laparoscopy orcystoscopy, can be considered if medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) interventionsare not successful or as an initial procedure to excludeneoplasia or an endometrioma.

C. Low probability of endometriosis. Women in whom a particular disease process is suspected, such asadenomyosis, uterine leiomyomata, irritable bowel syndrome, interstitial cystitis, diverticulitis, or fibromyalgiashould undergo further diagnostic testing and disease-specific treatment.

  1. Women with suspected pelvic inflammatory diseaseinfection can be treated with doxycycline 100 mg orallytwice daily for 14 days.

  2. NSAIDs can be prescribed at doses in the upper endof the dose range (eg, ibuprofen 800 mg orally everysix hours).

  3. Antidepressants, opioids, anticonvulsants, and psychotherapy are used for treatment of chronic pain.

VI. Surgical approach

A. Many causes of CPP, such as endometriosis, chronicpelvic inflammatory disease, and of a pelvic mass, requirea surgical procedure to determine a definitive diagnosis.In addition to providing a diagnosis of endometriosis,surgical excision of the endometriosis implants can beperformed during the laparoscopy.

B. Hysterectomy is effective in relieving chronic pelvic painin some women, who have completed child bearing.

C. Presacral neurectomy refers to interruption of the sympathetic innervation of the uterus. The procedure can beperformed via laparoscopy or laparotomy. PSN is mosteffective for relieving midline pelvic pain.

References: See page 155.

Primary Amenorrhea

Amenorrhea (absence of menses) results from dysfunction of thehypothalamus, pituitary, ovaries, uterus, or vagina. It is oftenclassified as either primary (absence of menarche by age 16) orsecondary (absence of menses for more than three cycle intervalsor six months in women who were previously menstruating).

I. Etiology

A. Primary amenorrhea is usually the result of a genetic oranatomic abnormality. Common etiologies of primaryamenorrhea:

  1. Chromosomal abnormalities causing gonadaldysgenesis: 45 percent

  2. Physiologic delay of puberty: 20 percent

  3. Müllerian agenesis: 15 percent

  4. Transverse vaginal septum or imperforate hymen: 5 percent

  5. Absent production of gonadotropin-releasing hormone(GnRH) by the hypothalamus: 5 percent

  6. Anorexia nervosa: 2 percent

  7. Hypopituitarism: 2 percent

Causes of Primary and Secondary Amenorrhea
Abnormality Causes
Pregnancy
Anatomic abnormalities Congenital abnormality inMullerian development Congenital defect of urogenital sinus development Acquired ablation or scarringof the endometrium Isolated defect Testicular feminization syndrome5-Alpha-reductase deficiencyVanishing testes syndromeDefect in testis determining factor Agenesis of lower vaginaImperforate hymen Asherman’s syndromeTuberculosis
Disorders of hypothalamic-pituitary ovarian axisHypothalamic dysfunctionPituitary dysfunctionOvarian dysfunction
Causes of Amenorrhea due to Abnormalities in the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian Axis
Abnormality Causes
Hypothalamic dysfunction Functional hypothalamic amenorrheaWeight loss, eating disordersExercise Stress Severe or prolonged illnessCongenital gonadotropin-releasing hormone deficiencyInflammatory or infiltrative diseasesBrain tumors - eg, craniopharyngiomaPituitary stalk dissection or compressionCranial irradiation Brain injury - trauma, hemorrhage, hydrocephalusOther syndromes - Prader-Willi, LaurenceMoon-Biedl
Pituitary dysfunction HyperprolactinemiaOther pituitary tumors- acromegaly,corticotroph adenomas (Cushing's disease)Other tumors - meningioma, germinoma,gliomaEmpty sella syndromePituitary infarct or apoplexy
Ovarian dysfunction Ovarian failure (menopause)SpontaneousPremature (before age 40 years)Surgical
Other HyperthyroidismHypothyroidismDiabetes mellitus Exogenous androgen use
II.
Diagnostic evaluation of primary amenorrhea
A.
Step I: Evaluate clinical history:
  1. Signs of puberty may include a growth spurt, absence ofaxillary and pubic hair, or apocrine sweat glands, orabsence of breast development. Lack of pubertal development suggests ovarian or pituitary failure or a chromosomal abnormality.

  2. Family history of delayed or absent puberty suggests afamilial disorder.

  3. Short stature may indicate Turner syndrome orhypothalamic-pituitary disease.

  4. Poor health(Buy now from <a href="http://www.drugswell.com/wow/index.php">http://www.drugswell.com</a>) may be a manifestation of hypothalamic-pituitary disease. Symptoms of other hypothalamic-pituitary disease include headaches, visual field defects,fatigue, or polyuria and polydipsia.

  5. Virilization suggests polycystic ovary syndrome, anandrogen-secreting ovarian or adrenal tumor, or thepresence of Y chromosome material.

  6. Recent stress, change in weight, diet, or exercise habits;or illness may suggest hypothalamic amenorrhea.

  7. Heroin and methadone can alter hypothalamic gonadotropin secretion.

  8. Galactorrhea is suggestive of excess prolactin. Somedrugs cause amenorrhea by increasing serum prolactinconcentrations, including metoclopramide andantipsychotic drugs.

B. Step II: Physical examination

  1. An evaluation of pubertal development should includecurrent height, weight, and arm span (normal arm spanfor adults is within 5 cm of height) and an evaluation ofthe growth chart.

  2. Breast development should be assessed by Tannerstaging.

  3. The genital examination should evaluate clitoral size,pubertal hair development, intactness of the hymen,depth of the vagina, and presence of a cervix, uterus,and ovaries. If the vagina can not be penetrated with afinger, rectal examination may allow evaluation of theinternal organs. Pelvic ultrasound is also useful to determine the presence or absence of müllerian structures.

  4. The skin should be examined for hirsutism, acne, striae, increased pigmentation, and vitiligo.

  5. Classic physical features of Turner syndrome includelow hair line, web neck, shield chest, and widely spacednipples.

C. Step III: Basic laboratory testing

1. If a normal vagina or uterus are not obviously present on physical examination, pelvic ultrasonographyshould be performed to confirm the presence or absence of ovaries, uterus, and cervix. Ultrasonographycan be useful to exclude vaginal or cervical outlet obstruction in patients with cyclic pain.

a. Uterus absent

(1)
If the uterus is absent, evaluation should include a karyotype and serum testosterone. These testsshould distinguish abnormal müllerian development (46, XX karyotype with normal female serum testosterone concentrations) from androgeninsensitivity syndrome (46, XY karyotype andnormal male serum testosterone concentrations).
(2)
Patients with 5-alpha reductase deficiency alsohave a 46, XY karyotype and normal male serumtestosterone concentrations but, in contrast to the androgen insensitivity syndrome which is associated with a female phenotype, these patientsundergo striking virilization at the time of puberty(secondary sexual hair, muscle mass, and deepening of the voice).

2. Uterus present. For patients with a normal vagina anduterus and no evidence of an imperforate hymen, vaginal septum, or congenital absence of the vagina. Measurement of serum beta human chorionic gonadotropinto exclude pregnancy and of serum FSH, prolactin, andTSH.

a.
A high serum FSH concentration is indicative of primary ovarian failure. A karyotype is then requiredand may demonstrate complete or partial deletion ofthe X chromosome (Turner syndrome) or the presence of Y chromatin. The presence of a Y chromosome is associated with a higher risk of gonadaltumors and makes gonadectomy mandatory.
b.
A low or normal serum FSH concentration suggestsfunctional hypothalamic amenorrhea, congenitalGnRH deficiency, or other disorders of thehypothalamic-pituitary axis. Cranial MR imaging isindicated in most cases of hypogonadotropichypogonadism to evaluate hypothalamic or pituitarydisease. Cranial MRI is recommended for all women with primary hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, visualfield defects, or headaches.
c.
Serum prolactin and thyrotropin (TSH) should bemeasured, especially if galactorrhea is present.
d.
If there are signs or symptoms of hirsutism, serumtestosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate(DHEA-S) should be measured to assess for anandrogen-secreting tumor.
e.
If hypertension is present, blood tests should bedrawn for evaluate for CYP17 deficiency. The characteristic findings are elevations in serum progesterone (>3 ng/mL) and deoxycorticosterone and lowvalues for serum 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone(<0.2 ng/mL).

III. Treatment

A. Treatment of primary amenorrhea is directed at correctingthe underlying pathology; helping the woman to achievefertility, if desired; and prevention of complications of thedisease.

B. Congenital anatomic lesions or Y chromosome material usually requires surgery. Surgical correction of a vaginal outlet obstruction is necessary before menarche, or assoon as the diagnosis is made after menarche. Creation ofa neovagina for patients with müllerian failure is usuallydelayed until the women is emotionally mature. If Y chromosome material is found, gonadectomy should be performed to prevent gonadal neoplasia. However,gonadectomy should be delayed until after puberty in patients with androgen insensitivity syndrome. These patientshave a normal pubertal growth spurt and feminize at thetime of expected puberty.

C. Ovarian failure requires counseling about the benefits andrisks of hormone replacement therapy.

D. Polycystic ovary syndrome is managed with measures toreduce hirsutism, resume menses, and fertility and preventof endometrial hyperplasia, obesity, and metabolic defects.

E. Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea can usually bereversed by weight gain, reduction in the intensity of exercise, or resolution of illness or emotional stress. For women who want to continue to exercise, estrogen-progestin replacement therapy should be given to those not seekingfertility to prevent osteoporosis. Women who want to become pregnant can be treated with gonadotropins orpulsatile GnRH.

F. Hypothalamic or pituitary dysfunction that is not reversible (eg, congenital GnRH deficiency) is treated with eitherexogenous gonadotropins or pulsatile GnRH if the womanwants to become pregnant.

References: See page 155.

Secondary Amenorrhea

Amenorrhea (absence of menses) can be a transient, intermittent,or permanent condition resulting from dysfunction of the hypothalamus, pituitary, ovaries, uterus, or vagina. Amenorrhea is classified as either primary (absence of menarche by age 16 years) orsecondary (absence of menses for more than three cycles or sixmonths in women who previously had menses). Pregnancy is themost common cause of secondary amenorrhea.

I. Diagnosis of secondary amenorhea

A. Step 1: Rule out pregnancy. A pregnancy test is the firststep in evaluating secondary amenorrhea. Measurement ofserum beta subunit of hCG is the most sensitive test.

B. Step 2: Assess the history

  1. Recent stress; change in weight, diet or exercise habits;or illnesses that might result in hypothalamic amenorrheashould be sought.

  2. Drugs associated with amenorrhea, systemic illnessesthat can cause hypothalamic amenorrhea, recent initiationor discontinuation of an oral contraceptive, androgenicdrugs (danazol) or high-dose progestin, and antipsychoticdrugs should be evaluated.

  3. Headaches, visual field defects, fatigue, or polyuria andpolydipsia may suggest hypothalamic-pituitary disease.

  4. Symptoms of estrogen deficiency include hot flashes,vaginal dryness, poor sleep, or decreased libido.

  5. Galactorrhea is suggestive of hyperprolactinemia.Hirsutism, acne, and a history of irregular menses aresuggestive of hyperandrogenism.

  6. A history of obstetrical catastrophe, severe bleeding,dilatation and curettage, or endometritis or other infectionthat might have caused scarring of the endometrial liningsuggests Asherman's syndrome.

Causes of Primary and Secondary Amenorrhea
Abnormality Causes
Pregnancy
Anatomic abnormalities Congenital abnormality inMullerian development Congenital defect of urogenitalsinus development Acquired ablation or scarringof the endometrium Isolated defect Testicular feminization syndrome5-Alpha-reductase deficiencyVanishing testes syndromeDefect in testis determining factor Agenesis of lower vaginaImperforate hymen Asherman’s syndromeTuberculosis
Disorders of hypothalamic-pituitary ovarian axisHypothalamic dysfunctionPituitary dysfunctionOvarian dysfunction
Causes of Amenorrhea due to Abnormalities in the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian Axis
Abnormality Causes
Hypothalamic dysfunction Functional hypothalamic amenorrheaWeight loss, eating disordersExercise Stress Severe or prolonged illnessCongenital gonadotropin-releasing hormone deficiencyInflammatory or infiltrative diseasesBrain tumors - eg, craniopharyngiomaPituitary stalk dissection or compressionCranial irradiation Brain injury - trauma, hemorrhage, hydrocephalusOther syndromes - Prader-Willi,Laurence-Moon-Biedl
Pituitary dysfunction HyperprolactinemiaOther pituitary tumors- acromegaly,corticotroph adenomas (Cushing's disease)Other tumors - meningioma, germinoma,gliomaEmpty sella syndromePituitary infarct or apoplexy
Ovarian dysfunction Ovarian failure (menopause)SpontaneousPremature (before age 40 years)Surgical
Other HyperthyroidismHypothyroidismDiabetes mellitus Exogenous androgen use
Drugs Associated with Amenorrhea
Drugs that IncreaseProlactin AntipsychoticsTricyclic antidepressantsCalcium channel blockers
Drugs with EstrogenicActivity Digoxin, marijuana, oral contraceptives
Drugs with OvarianToxicity Chemotherapeutic agents

C. Step 3: Physical examination. Measurements of heightand weight, signs of other illnesses, and evidence ofcachexia should be assessed. The skin, breasts, and genital tissues should be evaluated for estrogen deficiency. Thebreasts should be palpated, including an attempt to express galactorrhea. The skin should be examined forhirsutism, acne, striae, acanthosis nigricans, vitiligo, thickness or thinness, and easy bruisability.

D. Step 4: Basic laboratory testing. In addition to measurement of serum hCG to rule out pregnancy, minimal laboratory testing should include measurements of serumprolactin, thyrotropin, and FSH to rule outhyperprolactinemia, thyroid disease, and ovarian failure(high serum FSH). If there is hirsutism, acne or irregularmenses, serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S)and testosterone should be measured.

E. Step 5: Follow-up laboratory evaluation

  1. High serum prolactin concentration. Prolactin secretion can be transiently increased by stress or eating.Therefore, serum prolactin should be measured at leasttwice before cranial imaging is obtained, particularly inthose women with small elevations (<50 ng/mL). Thesewomen should be screened for thyroid disease with aTSH and free T4 because hypothyroidism can causehyperprolactinemia.

  2. Women with verified high serum prolactin values shouldhave a cranial MRI unless a very clear explanation isfound for the elevation (eg, antipsychotics). Imagingshould rule out a hypothalamic or pituitary tumor.

  3. High serum FSH concentration. A high serum FSHconcentration indicates the presence of ovarian failure.This test should be repeated monthly on three occasionsto confirm. A karyotype should be considered in mostwomen with secondary amenorrhea age 30 years or younger.

  4. High serum androgen concentrations. A high serumandrogen value may suggest the diagnosis of polycysticovary syndrome or may suggest an androgen-secretingtumor of the ovary or adrenal gland. Further testing for atumor might include a 24-hour urine collection forcortisol and 17-ketosteroids, determination of serum 17hydroxyprogesterone after intravenous injection ofcorticotropin (ACTH), and a dexamethasone suppression test. Elevation of 17-ketosteroids, DHEA-S, or 17hydroxyprogesterone is more consistent with an adrenal,rather than ovarian, source of excess androgen.

5. Normal or low serum gonadotropin concentrationsand all other tests normal

a.
This result is one of the most common outcomes of laboratory testing in women with amenorrhea.Women with hypothalamic amenorrhea (caused bymarked exercise or weight loss to more than 10 percent below the expected weight) have normal to lowserum FSH values. Cranial MRI is indicated in all women without an a clear explanation forhypogonadotropic hypogonadism and in most womenwho have visual field defects or headaches. No further testing is required if the onset of amenorrhea isrecent or is easily explained (eg, weight loss, excessive exercise) and there are no symptoms suggestiveof other disease.
b.
High serum transferrin saturation may indicatehemochromatosis, high serum angiotensin-convertingenzyme values suggest sarcoidosis, and high fastingblood glucose or hemoglobin A1c values indicatediabetes mellitus.

6. Normal serum prolactin and FSH concentrationswith history of uterine instrumentation precedingamenorrhea

a.
Evaluation for Asherman's syndrome should be completed. A progestin challenge should be performed(medroxyprogesterone acetate 10 mg for 10 days). Ifwithdrawal bleeding occurs, an outflow tract disorderhas been ruled out. If bleeding does not occur, estrogen and progestin should be administered.
b.
Oral conjugated estrogens (0.625 to 2.5 mg daily for35 days) with medroxyprogesterone added (10 mgdaily for days 26 to 35); failure to bleed upon cessation of this therapy strongly suggests endometrialscarring. In this situation, a hysterosalpingogram orhysteroscopy can confirm the diagnosis of Ashermansyndrome.

II. Treatment

A. Athletic women should be counseled on the need for increased caloric intake or reduced exercise. Resumptionof menses usually occurs.

B. Nonathletic women who are underweight should receive nutritional counseling and treatment of eating disorders.

C. Hyperprolactinemia is treated with a dopamine agonist.Cabergoline (Dostinex) or bromocriptine (Parlodel) areused for most adenomas. Ovulation, regular menstrualcycles, and pregnancy may usually result.

D. Ovarian failure should be treated with hormone replacement therapy.

E. Hyperandrogenism is treated with measures to reduce hirsutism, resume menses, and fertility and preventingendometrial hyperplasia, obesity, and metabolic defects.

F. Asherman's syndrome is treated with hysteroscopic lysisof adhesions followed by long-term estrogen administrationto stimulate regrowth of endometrial tissue.

References: See page 155.

Menopause

Menopause is diagnosed by the presence of amenorrhea for six totwelve months, together with the occurrence of symptoms such ashot flashes. If the diagnosis is uncertain, a high serum concentration of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) can confirm the diagnosis.

I. Perimenopausal transition

A. Perimenopause is defined as the two to eight years preceding menopause and the one year after the last menstrualperiod. It is characterized by a normal ovulatory cycle interspersed with anovulatory cycles. Menses become irregular,and heavy breakthrough bleeding can occur. Some womencomplain of hot flashes and vaginal dryness.

B. Chronic anovulation and progesterone deficiency in thistransition period may lead to long periods of unopposedestrogen exposure and endometrial hyperplasia.Oligomenorrhea (irregular cycles) for six or more months oran episode of heavy dysfunctional bleeding is an indicationfor endometrial surveillance. Endometrial biopsy is thestandard to rule out endometrial hyperplasia, but screeningwith vaginal ultrasonography is acceptable. Biopsy can bedeferred if endometrial thickness is 4 mm or less.

C. Irregular bleeding and menopausal symptoms during thisperimenopausal transition may be treated by estrogen-progestin replacement therapy. However, some women stillrequire contraception. In this case, menopausal symptomsmay be effectively treated with a low-dose oral contraceptive if the woman does not smoke and has no other contra-indications to oral contraceptive therapy.

D. The oral contraceptive can be continued until the onset ofmenopause, determined by a high serum FSH concentration after six days off the pill. Estrogen replacement therapycan be started at this point.

E. In women with no symptoms of estrogen deficiency but withdysfunctional uterine bleeding who smoke or have otherreasons to avoid an oral contraceptive, monthly withdrawalbleeding can be induced with medroxyprogesterone acetate(5 to 10 mg daily for 10 to 14 days per month).

II. Menopause occurs at a mean age of 51 years in normalwomen. Menopause occurring after age 55 is defined as latemenopause. The age of menopause is reduced by about twoyears in women who smoke.

III. Short-term effects of estrogen deficiency

A. Hot flashes. The most common symptom of menopause isthe hot flash, which occurs in 75 percent of women. Flashesare self-limited, with 50 to 75 percent of women havingcessation of hot flashes within five years.

B. Hot flashes typiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y begin as the sudden sensation of heatcentered on the face and upper chest, which rapidly becomes generalized. The sensation of heat lasts from two tofour minutes, is often associated with profuse perspirationand occasionally palpitations, and is often followed by chillsand shivering. Hot flashes usually occur several times perday.

C. Treatment of menopausal symptoms with estrogen

  1. Estrogen therapy remains the gold standard for relief ofmenopausal symptoms, and is a reasonable option formost postmenopausal women, with the exception ofthose with a history of breast cancer, CHD, a previousvenous thromboembolic event or stroke, or those at highrisk for these complications. Estrogen therapy should beused for shortest duration possible (eg, 6 months to 5years).

  2. Dose. A low-dose estrogen is recommended when possible (eg, 0.3 mg conjugated estrogens or 0.5 mgestradiol).

  3. Adding a progestin. Endometrial hyperplasia and cancer can occur with unopposed estrogen therapy; therefore, a progestin should be added in women who havenot had a hysterectomy. Medroxyprogesterone (Provera),

1.5 mg, is usually given every day of the month. Prempro0.3/1.5 (0.3 mg of conjugated estrogens and 1.5 mg ofmedroxyprogesterone) or Prempro 0.45/1.5 (0.45 mg ofconjugated estrogens and 1.5 mg ofmedroxyprogesterone), taken daily.

  1. Low-dose oral contraceptives. A low-estrogen oralcontraceptive (20 µg of ethinyl estradiol) remains anappropriate treatment for perimenopausal women whoseek relief of menopausal symptoms. Most of thesewomen are between the ages of 40 and 50 years and arestill candidates for oral contraception. For them, an oralcontraceptive pill containing 20 µg of ethinyl estradiolprovides symptomatic relief while providing better bleeding control than conventional estrogen-progestin therapybecause the oral contraceptive contains higher doses ofboth estrogen and progestin.

  2. Treatment of vasomotor instability in women nottaking estrogen: Venlafaxine (Effexor), at doses of 75 mg daily, reduces hot flashes by 61 percent. Mouth dryness, anorexia, nausea, and constipation are common.

D. Urogenital changes. Menopause has been associated withdecreased sexual function and an increased incidence of urinary incontinence and urinary tract infection.

1. Sexual function

a.
Estrogen deficiency leads to a decrease in blood flowto the vagina and vulva, causing decreased vaginallubrication and sexual function.
b.
Dyspareunia in postmenopausal women should betreated with estrogen. Systemic estrogen therapy isusually adequate in women who desire estrogen therapy for reasons in addition to genitourinary symptoms.Vaginal estrogens are a good choice for women whowant to minimize systemic effects.

2. Urinary incontinence

a.
Low estrogen production after the menopause resultsin atrophy of the urethral epithelium and irritation;these changes predispose to stress and urge urinaryincontinence.
b.
Estrogen therapy should be attempted in women withstress or urge urinary incontinence. Urinary incontinence may be treated with systemic or vaginal estrogen.

3. Urinary tract infection. Recurrent urinary tract infectionsare a problem for many postmenopausal women.

4. Treatment of urogenital atrophy in women not takingsystemic estrogen

a. Moisturizers and lubricants. Regular use of a vaginal moisturizing agent (Replens) and lubricants duringintercourse are helpful. Water soluble lubricants suchas Astroglide are more effective than lubricants thatbecome more viscous after application such as K-Yjelly. A more effective treatment is vaginal estrogentherapy.

b. Low-dose vaginal estrogen

(1)
Vaginal ring estradiol (Estring), a silastic ringimpregnated with estradiol, is the preferred meansof delivering estrogen to the vagina. The silasticring delivers 6 to 9 µg of estradiol to the vaginadaily for a period of three months. The rings arechanged once every three months by the patient.Concomitant progestin therapy is not necessary.
(2)
Conjugated estrogens (Premarin), 0.5 gm ofcream, or one-eighth of an applicatorful daily intothe vagina for three weeks, followed by twiceweekly thereafter. Concomitant progestin therapyis not necessary.
(3)
Estrace cream (estradiol) can also by given byvaginal applicator at a dose of one-eighth of anapplicator or 0.5 g (which contains 50 µg ofestradiol) daily into the vagina for three weeks,followed by twice weekly thereafter. Concomitantprogestin therapy is not necessary.
(4)
Estradiol (Vagifem). A tablet containing 25 micrograms of estradiol is available and is insertedinto the vagina twice per week. Concomitantprogestin therapy is not necessary.

IV.Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis

A. Screening for osteoporosis. Measurement of BMD is recommended for all women 65 years and older regardlessof risk factors. BMD should also be measured in all women under the age of 65 years who have one or more risk factors for osteoporosis (in addition to menopause).

B. Bisphosphonates

  1. Alendronate (Fosamax) has effects comparable tothose of estrogen for both the treatment of osteoporosis(10 mg/day or 70 mg once a week) and for its prevention(5 mg/day). Alendronate (in a dose of 5 mg/day or 35mg/week) can also prevent osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.

  2. Risedronate (Actonel), a bisphosphonate, has beenapproved for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis atdoses of 5 mg/day or 35 mg once per week. Its efficacyand side effect profile are similar to those of alendronate.

C. Raloxifene (Evista) is a selective estrogen receptor modulator. It is available for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. At a dose of 60 mg/day, bone density increases by

2.4 percent in the lumbar spine and hip over a two yearperiod. This effect is slightly less than withbisphosphonates.

D. Calcium. Maintaining a positive calcium balance inpostmenopausal women requires a daily intake of 1500 mgof elemental calcium; to meet this most women require asupplement of 1000 mg daily.

E. Vitamin D. All postmenopausal women should take a multivitamin containing at least 400 IU vitamin D daily.

F. Exercise for at least 20 minutes daily reduces the rate of

bone loss. Weight bearing exercises are preferable.References: See page 155.

Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding

Menorrhagia (excessive bleeding) is most commonly caused byanovulatory menstrual cycles. Occasionally it is caused by thyroiddysfunction, infections or cancer.

I. Pathophysiology of normal menstruation

A. In response to gonadotropin-releasing hormone from thehypothalamus, the pituitary gland synthesizes follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), whichinduce the ovaries to produce estrogen and progesterone.

B. During the follicular phase, estrogen stimulation causes anincrease in endometrial thickness. After ovulation, progesterone causes endometrial maturation. Menstruation is caused by estrogen and progesterone withdrawal.

C. Abnormal bleeding is defined as bleeding that occurs atintervals of less than 21 days, more than 36 days, lastinglonger than 7 days, or blood loss greater than 80 mL.

II. Clinical evaluation of abnormal vaginal bleeding

A. A menstrual and reproductive history should include lastmenstrual period, regularity, duration, frequency; the numberof pads used per day, and intermenstrual bleeding.

B. Stress, exercise, weight changes and systemic diseases,particularly thyroid, renal or hepatic diseases orcoagulopathies, should be sought. The method of birthcontrol should be determined.

C. Pregnancy complications, such as spontaneous abortion,ectopic pregnancy, placenta previa and abruptio placentae,can cause heavy bleeding. Pregnancy should always beconsidered as a possible cause of abnormal vaginal bleeding.

III. Puberty and adolescence--menarche to age 16

A. Irregularity is normal during the first few months of menstruation; however, soaking more than 25 pads or 30 tampons during a menstrual period is abnormal.

B. Absence of premenstrual symptoms (breast tenderness,bloating, cramping) is associated with anovulatory cycles.

C. Fever, particularly in association with pelvic or abdominalpain may, indicate pelvic inflammatory disease. A history ofeasy bruising suggests a coagulation defect. Headaches andvisual changes suggest a pituitary tumor.

D. Physical findings

  1. Pallor not associated with tachycardia or signs ofhypovolemia suggests chronic excessive blood loss secondary to anovulatory bleeding, adenomyosis, uterinemyomas, or blood dyscrasia.

  2. Fever, leukocytosis, and pelvic tenderness suggests PID.

  3. Signs of impending shock indicate that the blood loss isrelated to pregnancy (including ectopic), trauma, sepsis,or neoplasia.

  4. Pelvic masses may represent pregnancy, uterine or ovarian neoplasia, or a pelvic abscess or hematoma.

  5. Fine, thinning hair, and hypoactive reflexes suggesthypothyroidism.

  6. Ecchymoses or multiple bruises may indicate trauma,coagulation defects, medication use, or dietary extremes.

E. Laboratory tests

  1. CBC and platelet count and a urine or serum pregnancytest should be obtained.

  2. Screening for sexually transmitted diseases, thyroid function, and coagulation disorders (partial thromboplastintime, INR, bleeding time) should be completed.

  3. Endometrial sampling is rarely necessary for those under age 20.

F. Treatment of infrequent bleeding

  1. Therapy should be directed at the underlying cause whenpossible. If the CBC and other initial laboratory tests arenormal and the history and physical examination arenormal, reassurance is usually all that is necessary.

  2. Ferrous gluconate, 325 mg bid-tid, should be prescribed.

G. Treatment of frequent or heavy bleeding

1. Treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(NSAIDs) improves platelet aggregation and increasesuterine vasoconstriction. NSAIDs are the first choice in the treatment of menorrhagia because they are well toleratedand do not have the hormonal effects of oral contraceptives.

a.
Mefenamic acid (Ponstel) 500 mg tid during the menstrual period.
b.
Naproxen (Anaprox, Naprosyn) 500 mg loadingdose, then 250 mg tid during the menstrual period.
c.
Ibuprofen (Motrin, Nuprin) 400 mg tid during themenstrual period.
d.
Gastrointestinal distress is common. NSAIDs are contraindicated in renal failure and peptic ulcer disease.

2. Iron should also be added as ferrous gluconate 325 mgtid.

H. Patients with hypovolemia or a hemoglobin level below 7g/dL should be hospitalized for hormonal therapy and ironreplacement.

  1. Hormonal therapy consists of estrogen (Premarin) 25 mgIV q6h until bleeding stops. Thereafter, oral contraceptivepills should be administered q6h x 7 days, then taperslowly to one pill qd.

  2. If bleeding continues, IV vasopressin (DDAVP) should beadministered. Hysteroscopy may be necessary, and dilation and curettage is a last resort. Transfusion may beindicated in severe hemorrhage.

  3. Iron should also be added as ferrous gluconate 325 mgtid.

IV. Primary childbearing years – ages 16 to early 40s

A. Contraceptive complications and pregnancy are the mostcommon causes of abnormal bleeding in this age group.Anovulation accounts for 20% of cases.

B. Adenomyosis, endometriosis, and fibroids increase in frequency as a woman ages, as do endometrial hyperplasiaand endometrial polyps. Pelvic inflammatory disease andendocrine dysfunction may also occur.

C. Laboratory tests

  1. CBC and platelet count, Pap smear, and pregnancy test.

  2. Screening for sexually transmitted diseases, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and coagulation disorders (partialthromboplastin time, INR, bleeding time).

  3. If a non-pregnant woman has a pelvic mass,ultrasonography or hysterosonography (with uterine salineinfusion) is required.

D. Endometrial sampling

  1. Long-term unopposed estrogen stimulation in anovulatorypatients can result in endometrial hyperplasia, which canprogress to adenocarcinoma; therefore, inperimenopausal patients who have been anovulatory foran extended interval, the endometrium should be biopsied.

  2. Biopsy is also recommended before initiation of hormonaltherapy for women over age 30 and for those over age 20who have had prolonged bleeding.

  3. Hysteroscopy and endometrial biopsy with a Pipelle aspirator should be done on the first day of menstruation (toavoid an unexpected pregnancy) or anytime if bleeding iscontinuous.

E. Treatment

  1. medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) protocols for anovulatory bleeding (dysfunctionaluterine bleeding) are similar to those described above foradolescents.

  2. Hormonal therapy

a.
In women who do not desire immediate fertility, hormonal therapy may be used to treat menorrhagia.
b.
A 21-day package of oral contraceptives is used. Thepatient should take one pill three times a day for 7days. During the 7 days of therapy, bleeding shouldsubside, and, following treatment, heavy flow will occur.After 7 days off the hormones, another 21-day packageis initiated, taking one pill each day for 21 days, thenno pills for 7 days.
c.
Alternatively, medroxyprogesterone (Provera), 10-20

mg per day for days 16 through 25 of each month, willresult in a reduction of menstrual blood loss. Pregnancy will not be prevented.

d. Patients with severe bleeding may have hypotensionand tachycardia. These patients require hospitalization,and estrogen (Premarin) should be administered IV as25 mg q4-6h until bleeding slows (up to a maximum offour doses). Oral contraceptives should be initiatedconcurrently as described above.

  1. Iron should also be added as ferrous gluconate 325 mgtid.

  2. Surgical treatment can be considered if childbearing iscompleted and medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) management fails to providerelief.

V. Premenopausal, perimenopausal, and postmenopausayears--age 40 and over

A. Anovulatory bleeding accounts for about 90% of abnormalvaginal bleeding in this age group. However, bleedingshould be considered to be from cancer until proven otherwise.

B. History, physical examination and laboratory testing areindicated as described above. Menopausal symptoms,personal or family history of malignancy and use of estrogen should be sought. A pelvic mass requires an evaluationwith ultrasonography.

C. Endometrial carcinoma

  1. In a perimenopausal or postmenopausal woman,amenorrhea preceding abnormal bleeding suggestsendometrial cancer. Endometrial evaluation is necessarybefore treatment of abnormal vaginal bleeding.

  2. Before endometrial sampling, determination ofendometrial thickness by transvaginal ultrasonography isuseful because biopsy is often not required when theendometrium is less than 5 mm thick.

D. Treatment

  1. Cystic hyperplasia or endometrial hyperplasia withoutcytologic atypia is treated with depomedroxyprogesterone, 200 mg IM, then 100 to 200 mgIM every 3 to 4 weeks for 6 to 12 months. Endometrialhyperplasia requires repeat endometrial biopsy every 3 to6 months.

  2. Atypical hyperplasia requires fractional dilation and curettage, followed by progestin therapy or hysterectomy.

  3. If the patient's endometrium is normal (or atrophic) andcontraception is a concern, a low-dose oral contraceptivemay be used. If contraception is not needed, estrogenand progesterone therapy should be prescribed.

4. Surgical management

a.
Vaginal or abdominal hysterectomy is the most absolute curative treatment.
b.
Dilatation and curettage can be used as a temporizing measure to stop bleeding.
c.
Endometrial ablation and resection by laser,electrodiathermy “rollerball,” or excisional resectionare alternatives to hysterectomy.

References: See page 155.

Breast Cancer Screening and Diagnosis

Breast cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed canceramong women, after skin cancer. Approximately 182,800 newcases of invasive breast cancer are diagnosed in the UnitedStates per year. The incidence of breast cancer increases withage. White women are more likely to develop breast cancer thanblack women. The incidence of breast cancer in white women is about 113 cases per 100,000 women and in black women, 100cases per 100,000.

I. Risk factors

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer
Age greater than 50 yearsPrior history of breast cancerFamily historyEarly menarche, before age 12Late menopause, after age 50Nulliparity Age greater than 30 at first birthObesityHigh socioeconomic statusAtypical hyperplasia on biopsyIonizing radiation exposure

A. Family history is highly significant in a first-degree relative(ie, mother, sister, daughter), especially if the cancer hasbeen diagnosed premenopausally. Women who havepremenopausal first-degree relatives with breast cancerhave a three- to fourfold increased risk of breast cancer. Having several second-degree relatives with breast cancermay further increase the risk of breast cancer. Most womenwith breast cancer have no identifiable risk factors.

B. Approximately 8 percent of all cases of breast cancer arehereditary. About one-half of these cases are attributed tomutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Hereditarybreast cancer commonly occurs in premenopausal women.Screening tests are available that detect BRCA mutations.

II. Diagnosis and evaluation

A. Clinical evaluation of a breast mass should assess duration of the lesion, associated pain, relationship to the menstrual cycle or exogenous hormone use, and change in sizesince discovery. The presence of nipple discharge and itscharacter (bloody or tea-colored, unilateral or bilateral,spontaneous or expressed) should be assessed.

B. Menstrual history. The date of last menstrual period, ageof menarche, age of menopause or surgical removal of theovaries, previous pregnancies should be determined.

C. History of previous breast biopsies, cyst aspiration, datesand results of previous mammograms should be determined.

D. Family history should document breast cancer in relatives and the age at which family members were diagnosed.

III.Physical examination

A. The breasts should be inspected for asymmetry, deformity,skin retraction, erythema, peau d'orange (breast edema),and nipple retraction, discoloration, or inversion.

B. Palpation

  1. The breasts should be palpated while the patient issitting and then supine with the ipsilateral arm extended.The entire breast should be palpated systematiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y. Themass should be evaluated for size, shape, texture, tenderness, fixation to skin or chest wall.

  2. A mass that is suspicious for breast cancer is usuallysolitary, discrete and hard. In some instances, it is fixedto the skin or the muscle. A suspicious mass is usuallyunilateral and nontender. Sometimes, an area of thickening may represent cancer. Breast cancer is rarelybilateral. The nipples should be expressed for discharge.

  3. The axillae should be palpated for adenopathy, with anassessment of size of the lymph nodes, number, andfixation.

IV.Mammography. Screening mammograms are recommendedevery year for asymptomatic women 40 years and older. Unfortunately, only 60 percent of cancers are diagnosed at a local stage.

Screening for Breast Cancer in Women
Age American Cancer Society guidelines
20 to 39 years Clinical breast examination every three yearsMonthly self-examination of breasts
Age 40 years andolder Annual mammogramAnnual clinical breast examination Monthly self-examination of breasts

V. Methods of breast biopsy

A. Palpable masses. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB)

has a sensitivity ranging from 90-98%. Nondiagnostic aspi

rates require surgical biopsy.

  1. The skin is prepped with alcohol and the lesion is immobilized with the nonoperating hand. A 10 mL syringe, with a14 gauge needle, is introduced in to the central portion ofthe mass at a 90E angle. When the needle enters themass, suction is applied by retracting the plunger, and theneedle is advanced. The needle is directed into different areas of the mass while maintaining suction on the syringe.

  2. Suction is slowly released before the needle is withdrawnfrom the mass. The contents of the needle are placed ontoglass slides for pathologic examination.

  3. Excisional biopsy is done when needle biopsies are negative but the mass is cliniCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y suspected of malignancy.

B. Stereotactic core needle biopsy. Using a computer-drivenstereotactic unit, the lesion is localized in three dimensions, and an automated biopsy needle obtains samples. The sensitivity and specificity of this technique are 95-100% and 9498%, respectively.

C. Nonpalpable lesions

1. Needle localized biopsy

a.
Under mammographic guidance, a needle andhookwire are placed into the breast parenchyma adjacent to the lesion. The patient is taken to the operatingroom along with mammograms for an excisional breastbiopsy.
b.
The skin and underlying tissues are infiltrated with 1%lidocaine with epinephrine. For lesions located within 5cm of the nipple, a periareolar incision may be used oruse a curved incision located over the mass and parallel to the areola. Incise the skin and subcutaneous fat, then palpate the lesion and excise the mass.
c.
After removal of the specimen, a specimen x-ray isperformed to confirm that the lesion has been removed.The specimen can then be sent fresh for pathologicanalysis.
d.
Close the subcutaneous tissues with a 4-0 chromic catgut suture, and close the skin with 4-0 subcuticular suture.
D.
Ultrasonography. Screening is useful to differentiate between solid and cystic breast masses when a palpable massis not well seen on a mammogram. Ultrasonography is especially helpful in young women with dense breast tissue when apalpable mass is not visualized on a mammogram.Ultrasonography is not used for routine screening becausemicrocalcifications are not visualized and the yield of carcinomas is negligible.

References: See page 155.

Evaluation of Breast Lumps

Breast lumps should be evaluated because of the threat of breastcancer, especially in women over age 40. Breast cancer is foundin 11 percent of women complaining of a lump. The vast majorityof breast lumps and breast complaints are caused by benignbreast disease. Breast cancer accounts for 10 percent of breastcomplaints; the most common conditions are cysts andfibroadenomas.

I. Diagnostic evaluation of breast lumps

A. History

  1. The precise location of the lump.

  2. How it was first noted (by breast self-examination, orduring a screening clinical breast examination ormammogram).

  3. How long the patient has noted its presence.

  4. Whether there is any accompanying nipple discharge.

  5. Whether the lump waxes and wanes in size at particulartimes in the menstrual cycle. Benign cysts may be more

prominent premenstrually and regress in size during thefollicular phase.

B. A past history of breast cancer or breast biopsy and a history of risk factors for breast cancer (eg, age, family historyof breast cancer, age of menarche, age at first pregnancy,age of menopause, alcohol use, and hormonal replacementtherapy).

Risk Factors for Developing Breast Cancer
Risk factors Low risk Highrisk Relative risk
Deleterious BRCA1/BRCA2 genesNegative Positive 3-7
Mother or sister with breast cancer No Yes 2.6
Age30 to 34 70 to 74 18.0
Age at menarche>14 <12 1.5
Age at first birth<20 >30 1.9-3.5
Age at menopause<45 >55 2.0
Use of contraceptivepills Never Past/cu rrent 1.2
Hormone replacementNever use Current 1.4
therapyAlcohol None 2 to 5 1.4
Breast density on mam0 drinks/d ay 1.8-6
mography (%)Bone density Lowest quartile>75 2.7-3.5
History of a benignNo Highestquartile1.7
breast biopsyHistory of atypical hyperplasia on biopsy No Yes Yes 3.7

C. Breast tissue in normal women is often lumpy. Characteristics of cancerous lesions include:

  1. Single lesion.

  2. Hard.

  3. Immovable.

  4. Irregular borders.

D. Symptoms and physical findings to note when evaluating a breast lump:

  1. Smooth, well-demarcated lumps are usually benign.

  2. Although usually painless, breast cancer can be accompanied by pain in thirteen percent.

  3. Nipple discharge is uncommon in cancer and, if present,is unilateral. Fourteen percent of unilateral nipple discharges are caused by breast cancer.

  4. Careful examination of the axillae and supraclaviculararea for nodal involvement is necessary.

E. Mammography

  1. Diagnostic mammography is recommended as part ofthe evaluation of any woman age 35 or older who has abreast mass. The sensitivity and specificity of diagnosticmammography in women with a nonpalpable abnormality are 82.3 and 91.2 percent, respectively.

  2. Mammography usually cannot determine whether a lumpis benign. Mammography misses 10 to 20 percent ofcliniCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y palpable breast cancers. Diagnostic mammography usually is not ordered routinely in women underage 35. The breast tissue in younger women is often toodense to evaluate the lump.

F. Ultrasonography

1. Ultrasonography can determine whether a breast massis a simple or complex cyst or a solid tumor. It is mostuseful in the following circumstances:

a.
In women under age 35.
b.
When a mass detected on screening mammographycannot be felt.
c.
When the mass is too small or deep for aspiration.

2. The risk of cancer is low if the lesion is a simple cyst onultrasound. For women with palpable masses,ultrasonography in conjunction with mammography isrecommended in women over age 35 and ultrasoundalone in women under age 35.

G. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy

  1. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) can be useful indetermining if a palpable lump is a simple cyst. To aspirate a palpable, suspected cyst, the mass is stabilizedbetween the fingers and a 22- to 24-gauge needle isinserted with the other hand. Local anesthesia may beused but is not always required.

  2. FNAB is especially valuable in evaluating cystic breastlesions and can be therapeutic if all of the fluid is removed. There are three possible scenarios with FNAB:

a.
Fluid that is obtained and is not bloody should not besent for analysis. The mass should disappear and thepatient can be checked in four to six weeks to ensurethat the cyst has not reappeared; a recurrence suggests the need for surgical referral.
b.
Bloody fluid should be sent for pathological analysis;cancer is found in 7 percent of such cases.

3. When no fluid is obtained and the mass turns out to be solid, cells can be obtained for cytologic analysis withFNAB.

H. Triple diagnosis

  1. Triple diagnosis refers to the concurrent use of physicalexamination, mammography, and FNAB for diagnosingpalpable breast lumps. Very few breast cancers aremissed using triple diagnosis. Only 0.7 percent ofwomen had breast cancer when all three tests suggested benign lesions, while 99.4 percent of women inwhom all three tests were positive have breast cancer.

  2. The following scenarios occur with the triple diagnosisapproach:

a.
Women in whom all three tests suggest benign disease are followed with physical examination everythree to six months for one year to make sure themass is stable or regresses.
b.
Women in whom all three tests suggest malignancyare referred for definitive therapy.
c.
Women with any one of the tests suggesting malignancy should undergo excisional biopsy.

I. Women younger than age 35

  1. Diagnostic mammography is usually not helpful inwomen under age 35 because the breast tissue is toodense. In a young woman with no physical findingsindicating malignancy, the patient should return 3 to 10days after the next menstruation begins to determine ifthe lump regresses.

  2. FNAB can be performed if the lump remains easily palpable and feels cystic (round, smooth, and not hard). Iffluid is obtained and is not bloody, the patient can bereassured and followed in four to six weeks to check for recurrence; a recurrence suggests the need for surgicalreferral. Bloody fluid should be sent for cytology.

  3. If the lump does not feel cystic, the patient may be referred for ultrasound. If ultrasound shows a solid mass, the patient should undergo either FNAB, core-needlebiopsy, or excisional biopsy. If a solid lump is small (<1cm in size) and is not cliniCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y suspicious (eg, is soft,not fixed, not new, and not changing), the lump is likelyto be a fibroadenoma and the patient can be followedwith physical examination every three to six months.

J. Women age 35 and older

  1. Mammography is recommended as part of the evaluation of any woman age 35 or older who has a breastmass. Mammography misses 10 to 20 percent of cliniCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y palpable breast cancers.

  2. Solid masses with malignant or suspicious cytologyshould receive definitive therapy or biopsy. Masses thatare not suspicious need careful follow-up. Breast lumpsfound to be benign on both FNAB and mammographyhave about 1 percent risk of being cancer.

  3. Women who have had a non-palpable breast lump identified on screening mammography should have it evaluated. Women with mammogram readings highly suggestive of malignancy or with suspicious abnormalities needa core-needle or excisional biopsy.

Benign Breast Disease

Benign breast disease includes breast pain, breast lumps, ornipple discharge. The most common cause of breast nodularityand tenderness is fibrocystic change, which occurs in 60 percentof premenopausal women.

I. Benign breast lesions, which are discovered by breast palpation or mammography, have been subdivided into those that areassociated with an increased risk of breast cancer and those that are not.

A. No increased risk of breast cancer

  1. Fibrocystic changes consist of an increased number of cysts or fibrous tissue in an otherwise normal breast.Fibrocystic changes do not constitute a disease state.

  2. Fibrocystic disease is diagnosed when fibrocysticchanges occur in conjunction with pain, nipple discharge,or a degree of lumpiness sufficient to cause suspicion of cancer.

  3. Duct ectasia is characterized by distention of subareolar ducts.

  4. Solitary papillomas consist of papillary cells that growfrom the wall of a cyst into its lumen.

  5. Simple fibroadenomas are benign solid tumors, usuallypresenting as a well-defined, mobile mass.

B. Increased risk of breast cancer

  1. Ductal hyperplasia without atypia is the most commonlesion associated with increased risk of breast cancer.

  2. Sclerosing adenosis consists of lobular tissue that has undergone hyperplastic change.

  3. Diffuse papillomatosis refers to the formation of multiple papillomas.

  4. Complex fibroadenomas are tumors that contain cystsgreater than 3 mm in diameter, sclerosing adenosis,epithelial calcification, or papillary apocrine changes.

  5. Atypical hyperplasia is associated with a four to sixfold increased risk of breast cancer.

  6. Radial scars are benign breast lesions of uncertainpathogenesis that are occasionally detected by mammography. Thus, histologic confirmation is required toexclude spiculated carcinoma.

II. Symptoms and signs of benign breast disease

A. Women with fibrocystic changes can have breast tenderness during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.Fibrocystic disease is characterized by more severe orprolonged pain.

B. Women in their 30s sometimes present with multiple breastnodules 2 to 10 mm in size as a result of proliferation ofglandular cells.

C. Women in their 30s and 40s present with solitary or multiplecysts. Acute enlargement of cysts may cause severe, localized pain of sudden onset. Nipple discharge is common,varying from pale green to brown.

III.Differential diagnosis

A. Breast pain

  1. Women with mastitis usually complain of the suddenonset of pain,fever, erythema, tenderness, andinduration.

  2. Large pendulous breasts may cause pain due to stretching of Cooper's ligaments.

  3. Hidradenitis suppurativa can present as breast nodulesand pain.

  4. Chest wall pain induced by trauma or trauma-induced fatnecrosis, intercostal neuralgia, costochondritis, underly

ing pleuritic lesions, or arthritis of the thoracic spine canmimic benign breast disease.

B. Nipple discharge is uncommon in cancer and, if present, isunilateral. Approximately 3 percent of cases of unilateralnipple discharge are due to breast cancer; a mass is usuallyalso present.

1. Nonspontaneous, nonbloody, or bilateral nipple discharge is unlikely to be due to cancer.

a.
Purulent discharge is often caused by mastitis or abreast abscess.
b.
Milky discharge commonly occurs after childbearingand can last several years; it also may be associatedwith oral contraceptives or tricyclic antidepressants.Serum prolactin should be measured if the dischargeis sustained, particularly if it is associated with menstrual abnormalities.
c.
A green, yellow, white, grey, or brown discharge canbe caused by duct ectasia.

2. Evaluation of nipple discharge for suspected cancer mayinclude cytology and galactography. Occult blood can bedetected with a guaiac test.

IV.Clinical evaluation

A. History

  1. The relationship of symptoms to the menstrual cycles,the timing of onset of breast lumps and their subsequentcourse, the color and location of nipple discharge, andhormone use should be assessed.

  2. Risk factors for breast cancer should be determined, including menarche before age 12 years, first live birth at age >30 years, and menopause at age >55 years; thenumber of previous breast biopsies, the presence ofatypical ductal hyperplasia on biopsy, obesity, nulliparity,increased age, the amount of alcohol consumed, and thenumber and ages of first-degree family members withbreast cancer with two such relatives with breast cancer at any early age should be determined.

B. Physical examination. The examination is performed whenthe breasts are least stimulated, seven to nine days afterthe onset of menses. The four breast quadrants, subareolarareas, and the axillae should be systematiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y examinedwith the woman both lying and sitting with her hands on herhips.

1. The specific goals of the examination are to:

a.
Delineate and document breast masses
b.
Elicit discharge from a nipple
c.
Identify localized areas of tenderness
d.
Detect enlarged axillary or supraclavicular lymphnodes
e.
Detect skin changes, noting the symmetry and contourof the breasts, position of the nipples, scars, dimpling,edema or erythema, ulceration or crusting of the nipple

2. "Classic" characteristics of breast cancers:

a.
Single lesion
b.
Hard
c.
Immovable
d.
Irregular border
e.
Size >2 cm

C. Mammography

  1. Although 90 percent or more of palpable breast massesin women in their 20s to early 50s are benign, excludingbreast cancer is a crucial step in the evaluation. Mammography is recommended for any woman age 35 yearsor older who has a breast mass.

  2. Mammography usually is not ordered routinely in womenunder age 35 years. The breast tissue in younger womenis often too dense to evaluate the lump. Ultrasonographyis useful in these women to evaluate lumps and to assess for cysts.

  3. Round dense lesions on mammography often representcystic fluid. Solid and cystic lesions can often be distinguished by ultrasonography and mammography, andneedle aspiration under ultrasound guidance furtherdocuments the cystic nature of the lesion.

D. Breast pain. Women who present with breast pain as theironly symptom often undergo mammography. Only 0.4 percent of women with breast pain have breast cancer. Thevast majority of women have normal findings (87 percent);benign abnormalities are noted in 9 percent.

E. Ductal lavage. The cytologic detection of cellular atypia canidentify women with a higher risk of developing breast cancer.

V. Treatment

A. Fibrocystic disease. The major aim of therapy infibrocystic disease is to relieve breast pain or discomfort.Symptomatic relief also may be achieved with a soft brassiere with good support, acetaminophen or a nonsteroidalanti-inflammatory drug, or both.

  1. Breast pain or discomfort may be relieved with a thiazidediuretic.

  2. Avoidance of caffeine may provide some patients with relief of pain.

  3. Vitamin E, 400 IU twice daily reduces breast pain.

  4. Evening primrose oil in doses of 1500-3000 mg daily,relieves breast pain in 30 to 80 percent.

  5. Danazol in doses of 100 to 200 mg daily reduces breastpain. Common side effects include weight gain, acne,hirsutism, bloating, and amenorrhea.

  6. Tamoxifen reduces breast pain in about 70 percent ofwomen. It is safe and well-tolerated as 10 mg twice daily,or bromocriptine 1.25 to 5 mg daily can be tried.

  7. Oral contraceptives. The frequency of fibrocysticchanges decreases with prolonged oral contraceptivetherapy. Oral contraceptives containing 19-norprogestins,such as norlutate, have androgenic properties that arebeneficial.

References: See page 155.

Sexual Assault

Sexual assault is defined as any sexual act performed by oneperson on another without the person's consent. Sexual assaultincludes genital, anal, or oral penetration by a part of the accused's body or by an object. It may result from force, the threat offorce, or the victim's inability to give consent. The annual incidence of sexual assault is 200 per 100,000 persons.

I. Psychological effects

A. A woman who is sexually assaulted loses control over herlife during the period of the assault. Her integrity and her lifeare threatened. She may experience intense anxiety, anger,or fear. After the assault, a "rape-trauma" syndrome oftenoccurs. The immediate response may last for hours or daysand is characterized by generalized pain, headache, chronicpelvic pain, eating and sleep disturbances, vaginal symptoms, depression, anxiety, and mood swings.

B. The delayed phase is characterized by flashbacks, nightmares, and phobias.

II. medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) evaluation

A. Informed consent must be obtained before the examination. Acute injuries should be stabilized. About 1% of injuriesrequire hospitalization and major operative repair, and 0.1%of injuries are fatal.

B. A history and physical examination should be performed. Achaperon should be present during the history and physicalexamination to reassure the victim and provide support. Thepatient should be asked to state in her own words whathappened, identify her attacker if possible, and providedetails of the act(s) performed if possible.

Clinical Care of the Sexual Assault Victim
medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) Obtain informed consent from the patientObtain a gynecologic historyAssess and treat physical injuriesObtain appropriate cultures and treat any existing infectionsProvide prophylactic antibiotic therapy and offer immunizations Provide therapy to prevent unwanted conception Offer baseline serologic tests for hepatitis B virus, humanimmunodeficiency virus (HIV), and syphilis Provide counselingArrange for follow-up medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) care and counseling
LegalProvide accurate recording of eventsDocument injuriesCollect samples (pubic hair, fingernail scrapings, vaginalsecretions, saliva, blood-stained clothing)Report to authorities as requiredAssure chain of evidence

C. Previous obstetric and gynecologic conditions should besought, particularly infections, pregnancy, use of contraception, and date of the last menstrual period. Preexisting pregnancy, risk for pregnancy, and the possibility of preexistinginfections should be assessed.

D. Physical examination of the entire body and photographsor drawings of the injured areas should be completed.Bruises, abrasions, and lacerations should be sought. Superficial or extensive lacerations of the hymen and vagina,injury to the urethra, and occasionally rupture of the vaginalvault into the abdominal cavity may be noted. Bite marks are common.

  1. Pelvic examination should assess the status of the reproductive organs, collect samples from the cervix andvagina, and test for Neisseria gonorrhoeae andChlamydia trachomatis.

  2. A Wood light should be used to find semen on the patient's body: dried semen will fluoresce. Sperm and otherY-chromosome-bearing cells may be identified frommaterials collected from victims.

E. A serum sample should be obtained for baseline serologyfor syphilis, herpes simplex virus, hepatitis B virus, and HIV.

F. Trichomonas is the most frequently acquired STD. The riskof acquiring human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) <1%during a single act of heterosexual intercourse, but the riskdepends on the population involved and the sexual actsperformed. The risk of acquiring gonorrhea is 6-12%, andthe risk of acquiring syphilis is 3%.

G. Hepatitis B virus is 20 times more infectious than HIV during sexual intercourse. Hepatitis B immune globulin (0.06mL of hepatitis B immune globulin per kilogram) should beadministered intramuscularly as soon as possible within 14days of exposure. It is followed by the standard three-doseimmunization series with hepatitis B vaccine (0, 1, and 6months), beginning at the time of hepatitis B immune globulin administration.

H. Emergency contraception. If the patient is found to be atrisk for pregnancy as a result of the assault, emergencycontraception should be offered. The risk of pregnancy aftersexual assault is 2-4% in victims not already using contraception. One dose of combination oral contraceptive tabletsis given at the time the victim is seen and an additional doseis given in 12 hours. Emergency contraception can be effective up to 120 hours after unprotected coitus.Metoclopramide (Reglan), 20 mg with each dose of hormone, is prescribed for nausea. A pregnancy test should beperformed at the 2-week return visit if conception is suspected.

Emergency Contraception
1. Consider pretreatment one hour before each oral contraceptive pilldose, using one of the following orally administered antiemetic agents: Prochlorperazine (Compazine), 5 to 10 mgPromethazine (Phenergan), 12.5 to 25 mgTrimethobenzamide (Tigan), 250 mg 2. Administer the first dose of oral contraceptive pill within 72 hours ofintercourse, and administer the second dose 12 hours after the first dose. Brand name options for emergency contraception include thefollowing: Preven Kit--two pills per dose (0.5 mg of levonorgestrel and 100 µgof ethinyl estradiol per dose)Ovral--two pills per dose (0.5 mg of levonorgestrel and 100 µg ofethinyl estradiol per dose)Plan B--one pill per dose (0.75 mg of levonorgestrel per dose)Nordette--four pills per dose (0.6 mg of levonorgestrel and 120 µgof ethinyl estradiol per dose)Triphasil--four pills per dose (0.5 mg of levonorgestrel and 120 µgof ethinyl estradiol per dose)
Screening and Treatment of Sexually Transmissible Infections Following Sexual Assault
Initial Examination
Infection • Testing for and gonorrhea and chlamydia from specimens from anysites of penetration or attempted penetration • Wet mount and culture or a vaginal swab specimen for Trichomonas • Serum sample for syphilis, herpes simplex virus, hepatitis B virus,and HIV Pregnancy PreventionProphylaxis• Hepatitis B virus vaccination and hepatitis B immune globulin. • Empiric recommended antimicrobial therapy for chlamydial, gonococcal, and trichomonal infections and for bacterial vaginosis:Ceftriaxone, 125 mg intramuscularly in a single dose, plusMetronidazole, 2 g orally in a single dose, plusDoxycycline 100 mg orally two times a day for 7 daysAzithromycin (Zithromax) is used if the patient is unlikely to complywith the 7 day course of doxycycline; single dose of four 250 mg caps.If the patient is penicillin-allergic, ciprofloxacin 500 mg PO orofloxacin 400 mg PO is substituted for ceftriaxone. If the patient ispregnant, erythromycin 500 mg PO qid for 7 days is substituted fordoxycycline.HIV prophylaxis consists of zidovudine (AZT) 200 mg PO tid, pluslamivudine (3TC) 150 mg PO bid for 4 weeks.
Follow-Up Examination (2 weeks)
• Cultures for N gonorrhoeae and C trachomatis (not needed if prophylactic treatment has been provided) • Wet mount and culture for T vaginalis • Collection of serum sample for subsequent serologic analysis if testresults are positive
Follow-Up Examination (12 weeks)
Serologic tests for infectious agents:T pallidumHIV (repeat test at 6 months)Hepatitis B virus (not needed if hepatitis B virus vaccine was given)

III. Emotional care

A. The physician should discuss the injuries and the probability of infection or pregnancy with the victim, and she shouldbe allowed to express her anxieties.

B. Anxiolytic medication may be useful; lorazepam (Ativan) 15 mg PO tid prn anxiety.

C. The patient should be referred to personnel trained tohandle rape-trauma victims within 1 week.

IV. Follow-up care

A. The patient is seen for medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) follow-up in 2 weeks fordocumentation of healing of injuries.

B. Repeat testing includes syphilis, hepatitis B, and gonorrheaand chlamydia cultures. HIV serology should be repeatedin 3 months and 6 months.

C. A pregnancy test should be performed if conception is

suspected.References: See page 155.

Osteoporosis

Over 1.3 million osteoporotic fractures occur each year in theUnited States. The risk of all fractures increases with age; amongpersons who survive until age 90, 33 percent of women will have ahip fracture. The lifetime risk of hip fracture for white women atage 50 is 16 percent. Osteoporosis is characterized by low bonemass, microarchitectural disruption, and increased skeletal fragility.

Risk Factors for Osteoporotic Fractures
Personal history of fracture as anWhite race
adult Advanced age
History of fracture in a first-de-Lifelong low calcium intake
gree relativeAlcoholism
Current cigarette smokingInadequate physical activity
Low body weight (less than 58 kgRecurrent falls
[127 lb])Dementia
Female sex Impaired eyesight despite ade-
Estrogen deficiency (menopausequate correction
before age 45 years or bilateralPoor health(Buy now from <a href="http://www.drugswell.com/wow/index.php">http://www.drugswell.com</a>)/frailty
ovariectomy, prolonged
premenopausal amenorrhea
[greater than one year])

I. Screening for osteoporosis and osteopenia

A. Normal bone density is defined as a bone mineral density(BMD) value within one standard deviation of the meanvalue in young adults of the same sex and race.

B. Osteopenia is defined as a BMD between 1 and 2.5 standard deviations below the mean.

C. Osteoporosis is defined as a value more than 2.5 standard deviations below the mean; this level is the fracture threshold. These values are referred to as T-scores (number ofstandard deviations above or below the mean value).

D. Dual x-ray absorptiometry. In dual x-ray absorptiometry(DXA), two photons are emitted from an x-ray tube. DXA isthe most commonly used method for measuring bone density because it gives very precise measurements with minimal radiation. DXA measurements of the spine and hip arerecommended.

E. Biochemical markers of bone turnover. Urinarydeoxypyridinoline (DPD) and urinary alpha-1 to alpha-2N-telopeptide of collagen (NTX) are the most specific andcliniCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y useful markers of bone resorption. Biochemicalmarkers are not useful for the screening or diagnosis ofosteoporosis because the values in normal and osteoporosis overlap substantially.

II. Recommendations for screening for osteoporosis of theNational Osteoporosis Foundation

A. All women should be counseled about the risk factors for osteoporosis, especially smoking cessation and limitingalcohol. All women should be encouraged to participate inregular weight-bearing and exercise.

B. Measurement of BMD is recommended for all women 65 years and older regardless of risk factors. BMD should alsobe measured in all women under the age of 65 years whohave one or more risk factors for osteoporosis (in additionto menopause). The hip is the recommended site of measurement.

C. All adults should be advised to consume at least 1,200 mgof calcium per day and 400 to 800 IU of vitamin D per day.A daily multivitamin (which provides 400 IU) is recommended. In patients with documented vitamin D deficiency,osteoporosis, or previous fracture, two multivitamins may bereasonable, particularly if dietary intake is inadequate andaccess to sunlight is poor.

D. Treatment is recommended for women without risk factors who have a BMD that is 2 SD below the mean for youngwomen, and in women with risk factors who have a BMD that is 1.5 SD below the mean.

III. Nonpharmacologic therapy of osteoporosis in women

A. Diet. An optimal diet for treatment (or prevention) of osteoporosis includes an adequate intake of calories (to avoidmalnutrition), calcium, and vitamin D.

B. Calcium. Postmenopausal women should be advised totake 1000 to 1500 mg/day of elemental calcium, in divideddoses, with meals.

C. Vitamin D total of 800 IU daily should be taken.

D. Exercise. Women should exercise for at least 30 minutes three times per week. Any weight-bearing exercise regimen,including walking, is acceptable.

E. Cessation of smoking is recommended for all women because smoking cigarettes accelerates bone loss.

IV.Drug therapy of osteoporosis in women

A. Selected postmenopausal women with osteoporosis or athigh risk for the disease should be considered for drugtherapy. Particular attention should be paid to treatingwomen with a recent fragility fracture, including hip fracture,because they are at high risk for a second fracture.

B. Candidates for drug therapy are women who already havepostmenopausal osteoporosis (less than -2.5) and womenwith osteopenia (T score -1 to -2.5) soon after menopause.

C. Bisphosphonates

  1. Alendronate (Fosamax) (10 mg/day or 70 mg once weekly) or risedronate (Actonel) (5 mg/day or 35 mgonce weekly) are good choices for the treatment of osteoporosis. Bisphosphonate therapy increases bone massand reduces the incidence of vertebral and nonvertebral fractures.

  2. Alendronate (5 mg/day or 35 mg once weekly) andrisedronate (5 mg/day of 35 mg once weekly) have beenapproved for prevention of osteoporosis.

  3. Alendronate or risedronate should be taken with a full glass of water 30 minutes before the first meal or beverage of the day. Patients should not lie down for at least30 minutes after taking the dose to avoid the unusualcomplication of pill-induced esophagitis.

  4. Alendronate is well tolerated and effective for at least seven years.

  5. The bisphosphonates (alendronate or risedronate) andraloxifene are first-line treatments for prevention of osteoporosis. The bisphosphonates are first-line therapy for treatment of osteoporosis. Bisphosphonates are preferred for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis because they increase bone mineral density more thanraloxifene.

D. Selective estrogen receptor modulators

  1. Raloxifene (Evista) (5 mg daily or a once-a-week preparation) is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM)for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. It increasesbone mineral density and reduces serum total and low-density-lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. It also appears toreduce the incidence of vertebral fractures and is one of the first-line drugs for prevention of osteoporosis.

  2. Raloxifene is somewhat less effective than the bisphosphonates for the prevention and treatment ofosteoporosis. Venous thromboembolism is a risk.

Treatment Guidelines for Osteoporosis
Calcium supplements with or without vitamin D supplements or calcium-rich diet Weight-bearing exercise Avoidance of alcohol tobacco productsAlendronate (Fosamax)Risedronate (Actonel)Raloxifene (Evista)
Agents for Treating Osteoporosis
Medication Dosage Route
Calcium 1,000 to 1,500 mg per day Oral
Vitamin D 400 IU per day (800 IU per day inwinter in northern latitudes) Oral
Alendronate (Fosamax) Prevention: 5 mg per day or 35 mg once-a-week Treatment: 10 mg per day or 70 mgonce-a-week Oral
Risedronate (Actonel) 5 mg daily or 35 mg once weekly Oral
Raloxifene (Evista) 60 mg per day Oral
Conjugated estrogens 0.3 mg per day Oral

E. Monitoring the response to therapy

  1. Bone mineral density and a marker of bone turnovershould be measured at baseline, followed by a repeatmeasurement of the marker in three months.

  2. If the marker falls appropriately, the drug is having thedesired effect, and therapy should be continued for twoyears, at which time bone mineral density can be measured again. The anticipated three-month decline inmarkers is 50 percent with alendronate.

F. Estrogen/progestin therapy

  1. Estrogen-progestin therapy is no longer a first-line approach for the treatment of osteoporosis inpostmenopausal women because of increases in the riskof breast cancer, stroke, venous thromboembolism, and coronary disease.

  2. Indications for estrogen-progestin in postmenopausalwomen include persistent menopausal symptoms andpatients with an indication for antiresorptive therapy whocannot tolerate the other drugs.

References: See page 155.

Urinary Incontinence

Women between the ages of 20 to 80 year have an overall prevalence for urinary incontinence of 53.2 percent.

I. Types of Urinary Incontinence

A. Stress Incontinence

  1. Stress incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine produced by coughing, laughing or exercising. The underlying abnormality is typiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y urethral hypermobility causedby a failure of the anatomic supports of the bladder neck.Loss of bladder neck support is often attributed to injuryoccurring during vaginal delivery.

  2. The lack of normal intrinsic pressure within the urethra--known as intrinsic urethral sphincter deficiency--isanother factor leading to stress incontinence. Advancedage, inadequate estrogen levels, previous vaginal surgeryand certain neurologic lesions are associated with poorurethral sphincter function.

B. Overactive Bladder. Involuntary loss of urine preceded by astrong urge to void, whether or not the bladder is full, is asymptom of the condition commonly referred to as “urgeincontinence.” Other commonly used terms such as detrusorinstability and detrusor hyperreflexia refer to involuntarydetrusor contractions observed during urodynamic studies.

II.History and Physical Examination

A. A preliminary diagnosis of urinary incontinence can be madeon the basis of a history, physical examination and a fewsimple office and laboratory tests.

B. The medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) history should assess diabetes, stroke, lumbardisc disease, chronic lung disease, fecal impaction andcognitive impairment. The obstetric and gynecologic historyshould include gravity; parity; the number of vaginal, instrument-assisted and cesarean deliveries; the time interval between deliveries; previous hysterectomy and/or vaginal orbladder surgery; pelvic radiotherapy; trauma; and estrogen status.

Key Questions in Evaluating Patients for Urinary Incontinence
Do you leak urine when you cough, laugh, lift something or sneeze?How often? Do you ever leak urine when you have a strong urge on the way to thebathroom? How often? How frequently do you empty your bladder during the day?How many times do you get up to urinate after going to sleep? Is it theurge to urinate that wakes you?Do you ever leak urine during sex?Do you wear pads that protect you from leaking urine? How often doyou have to change them?Do you ever find urine on your pads or clothes and were unaware ofwhen the leakage occurred?Does it hurt when you urinate?Do you ever feel that you are unable to completely empty your bladder?
Drugs That Can Influence Bladder Function
Drug Side effect
Antidepressants, antipsychotics,sedatives/hypnotics Sedation, retention (overflow)
Diuretics Frequency, urgency (OAB)
Caffeine Frequency, urgency (OAB)
Anticholinergics Retention (overflow)
Alcohol Sedation, frequency (OAB)
Narcotics Retention, constipation, sedation(OAB and overflow)
Alpha-adrenergic blockers Decreased urethral tone (stressincontinence)
Alpha-adrenergic agonists Increased urethral tone, retention (overflow)
Beta-adrenergic agonists Inhibited detrusor function, retention (overflow)

C. Because fecal impaction has been linked to urinary incontinence, a history that includes frequency of bowel movements, length of time to evacuate and whether the patientmust splint her vagina or perineum during defecationshould be obtained. Patients should be questioned aboutfecal incontinence.

D. A complete list of all prescription and nonprescription drugsshould be obtained. When appropriate, discontinuation ofthese medications associated with incontinence or substitution of appropriate alternative medications will often cure orsignificantly improve urinary incontinence.

E. Physical Examination

  1. Immediately before the physical examination, the patientshould void as normally and completely as possible. Thevoided volume should be recorded. A post-void residualvolume can then be determined within 10 minutes bycatheterization or ultrasound examination. Post-void residual volumes more than 100 mL are considered abnormal.

  2. A clean urine sample can be sent for culture and urinalysis.

  3. Determining post-void residual volume and urinalysisallows screening for overflow incontinence, chronicurinary tract infections, hematuria, diabetes, kidneydisease and metabolic abnormalities.

  4. The abdominal examination should rule out diastasis recti, masses, ascites and organomegaly. Pulmonaryand cardiovascular assessment may be indicated toassess control of cough or the need for medicationssuch as diuretics.

  5. The lumbosacral nerve roots should be assessed bychecking deep tendon reflexes, lower extremity strength,sharp/dull sensation and the bulbocavernosus andclitoral sacral reflexes.

  6. The pelvic examination should include an evaluation forinflammation, infection and atrophy. Signs of inadequateestrogen levels are thinning and paleness of the vaginalepithelium, loss of rugae, disappearance of the labiaminora and presence of a urethral caruncle.

  7. A urethral diverticula is usually identified as a distalbulge under the urethra. Gentle massage of the area willfrequently produce a purulent discharge from the urethral meatus.

  8. Testing for stress incontinence is performed by askingthe patient to cough vigorously while the examinerwatches for leakage of urine.

  9. While performing the bimanual examination, levator animuscle function can be evaluated by asking the patientto tighten her “vaginal muscles” and hold the contractionas long as possible. It is normal for a woman to be ableto hold such a contraction for five to 10 seconds. The bimanual examination should also include a rectal examination to assess anal sphincter tone, fecal impaction,occult blood, or rectal lesions.

III. Treatment of urinary incontinence

A. Rehabilitation of the pelvic floor muscles is the commongoal of treatments through the use of pelvic muscle exercises (Kegel's exercises), weighted vaginal cones andpelvic floor electrical stimulation.

B. A set of specially designed vaginal weights can be used asmechanical biofeedback to augment pelvic muscle exercises. The weights are held inside the vagina by contractingthe pelvic muscles for 15 minutes at a time.

C. Pelvic floor electrical stimulation with a vaginal or anal probe produces a contraction of the levator ani muscle.Cure or improvement in 48 percent of treated patients,compared with 13 percent of control subjects.

D. Occlusive devices, such as pessaries, can mimic the effectsof a retropubic urethropexy. A properly fitted pessary prevents urine loss during vigorous coughing in the standingposition with a full bladder.

E. Medications such as estrogens and alpha-adrenergic drugsmay also be effective in treating women with stress incontinence. Stress incontinence may be treated with localizedestrogen replacement therapy (ERT). Localized ERT canbe given in the form of estrogen cream or anestradiol-impregnated vaginal ring (Estring).

Medications Used to Treat Urinary Incontinence
Drug Dosage
Stress Incontinence
Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) 15 to 30 mg, three times daily
Vaginal estrogen ring (Estring) Insert into vagina every threemonths.
Vaginal estrogen cream 0.5 g, apply in vagina every night
Overactive bladder
Oxybutynin transdermal (Oxytrol) 39 cm2 patch 2 times/week
Oxybutynin ER (Ditropan XL) 5 to 15 mg, every morning
Tolterodine LA (Detrol LA) 2-4 mg qd
Generic oxybutynin 2.5 to 10 mg, two to four timesdaily
Tolterodine (Detrol) 1 to 2 mg, two times daily
Imipramine (Tofranil) 10 to 75 mg, every night
Dicyclomine (Bentyl) 10 to 20 mg, four times daily
Hyoscyamine (Cystospaz) 0.375 mg, two times daily

F. Alpha-adrenergic drugs such as pseudoephedrine improvestress incontinence by increase resting urethral tone. Thesedrugs cause subjective improvement in 20 to 60 percent ofpatients.

G. Surgery to correct genuine stress incontinence is a viableoption for most patients. Retropubic urethropexies (ie,Burch laparoscopic and Marshall-Marchetti-Krantz [MMK]procedures) and suburethral slings have long-term successrates consistently reported in the 80 to 96 percent range.

H. Another minimally invasive procedure for the treatment ofstress incontinence caused by intrinsic sphincter deficiencyis periurethral injection.

I. Overactive bladder

  1. Behavioral therapy, in the form of bladder retraining andbiofeedback, seeks to reestablish cortical control of the bladder by having the patient ignore urgency and voidonly in response to cortical signals during waking hours.

  2. Pharmacologic agents may be given empiriCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y towomen with symptoms of overactive bladder. Tolterodine(Detrol) and extended-release oxybutynin chloride(Ditropan XL) have largely replaced generic oxybutyninas a first-line treatment option for overactive bladderbecause of favorable side effect profiles. Oxybutynintransdermal may cause less dry mouth than the oralformulation.

  3. ERT is also an effective treatment for women with overactive bladder. Even in patients taking systemic estrogen, localized ERT (ie, estradiol-impregnated vaginalring) may increase inadequate estrogen levels and decrease the symptoms associated with overactive bladder.

  4. Pelvic floor electrical stimulation is also effective in treating women with overactive bladder. Pelvic floor electricalstimulation results in a 50 percent cure rate of detrusorinstability.

  5. Neuromodulation of the sacral nerve roots through electrodes implanted in the sacral foramina is a promisingnew surgical treatment that has been found to be effective in the treatment of urge incontinence.

  6. The FDA has recently approved extracorporeal magneticinnervation, a noninvasive procedure for the treatment ofincontinence caused by pelvic floor weakness.Extracorporeal magnetic innervation may have a place inthe treatment of women with both stress and urge incontinence.

References: See page 155.

Urinary Tract Infection

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a leading cause of morbidity inpersons of all ages. Sexually active young women, elderly personsand those undergoing genitourinary instrumentation orcatheterization are at risk.

I. Acute uncomplicated cystitis in young women

A. Sexually active young women are most at risk for UTIs.

B. Approximately 90 percent of uncomplicated cystitis episodesare caused by Escherichia coli, 10 to 20 percent are causedby coagulase-negative Staphylococcus saprophyticus and 5percent or less are caused by other Enterobacteriaceae organisms or enterococci. Up to one-third of uropathogensare resistant to ampicillin and, but the majority are susceptible to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (85 to 95 percent) andfluoroquinolones (95 percent).

C. Patients should be evaluated for pyuria by urinalysis (wetmount examination of spun urine) or a dipstick test for leukocyte esterase.

Urinary Tract Infections in Adults
CategoryDiagnosticcriteria First-line therapy Comments
Acute uncomplicated cystitis Urinalysis forpyuria andhematuria (culture not required) TMP-SMX DS (Bactrim,Septra)Trimethoprim(Proloprim)Ciprofloxacin(Cipro)Ofloxacin (Floxin) Three-day courseis best Quinolones maybe used in areas of TMP-SMX resistance or in patients who cannot tolerate TMP-SMX
Recurrent Symptoms andIf the patientRepeat therapy for
cystitis in a urine culture has more than seven to 10 days
young women with a bacterial count of more than 100 CFU per mL of urine three cystitisepisodes per year, treat prophylactiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)ywith postcoital,patient- directedor continuous daily therapy based on culture results and then use prophylactictherapy
Acute cystitisUrine culture Same as for Treat for seven to
in young men with a bacterial count of 1,000 to 10,000 CFU per mL of urine acute uncomplicated cystitis 10 days
Acute uncom-Urine culture If gram-negativeSwitch from IV to
plicatedwith a bacterial organism, oraloral administration
pyelonephritis count of 100,000 CFU per mL of urine fluoroquinolone If gram-positiveorganism,amoxicillin If parenteraladministration is required, ceftriaxone (Rocephin) or afluoroquinoloneIf Enterococcus species, addoral or IV amoxicillin when the patient isable to take medication by mouth;complete a 14-day course
ComplicatedUrine culture If gram-negativeTreat for 10 to 14
urinary tractwith a bacterial organism, oraldays
infection count of more than 10,000 CFU per mL ofurine fluoroquinoloneIf Enterococcus species, ampicillin or amoxicillin with or without gentamicin (Garamycin)
Catheter-asso Symptoms andIf gram-negativeRemove catheter if
ciated urinarya urine culture organism, apossible, and treat
tract infection with a bacterial count of more than 100 CFU per mL of urine fluoroquinoloneIf gram-positiveorganism, ampicillin or amoxicillin plus gentamicin for seven to 10 daysFor patients withlong-term catheters and symptoms, treat for five to seven days
Antibiotic Therapy for Urinary Tract Infections
Diagnostic group Duration of therapy Empiric options
Acute uncom-Three Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim
plicated uridays DS), one double-strength tablet PO
nary tract in-twice daily
fections in Trimethoprim (Proloprim), 100 mg PO
women twice dailyNorfloxacin (Noroxin), 400 mg twice dailyCiprofloxacin (Cipro), 250 mg twice dailyLomefloxacin (Maxaquin), 400 mg perdayOfloxacin (Floxin), 200 mg twice dailyEnoxacin (Penetrex), 200 mg twice dailySparfloxacin (Zagam), 400 mg as initialdose, then 200 mg per dayLevofloxacin (Levaquin), 250 mg per dayNitrofurantoin (Macrodantin), 100 mg fourtimes dailyCefpodoxime (Vantin), 100 mg twice dailyCefixime (Suprax), 400 mg per dayAmoxicillin-clavulanate(Augmentin), 500mg twice daily
Acute uncom14 days Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole DS, one
plicateddouble-strength tablet PO twice daily
pyelonephritis Ciprofloxacin (Cipro), 500 mg twice dailyLevofloxacin (Maxaquin), 250 mg per dayEnoxacin (Penetrex), 400 mg twice dailySparfloxacin (Zagam) 400 mg initial dose,then 200 mg per day 104.50 Ofloxacin (Floxin), 400 mg twice dailyCefpodoxime (Vantin), 200 mg twice dailyCefixime (Suprax), 400 mg per day
Diagnostic group Duration of therapy Empiric options
Up to 3days Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim)160/800 IV twice dailyCeftriaxone (Rocephin), 1 g IV per dayCiprofloxacin (Cipro), 400 mg twice dailyOfloxacin (Floxin), 400 mg twice dailyLevofloxacin (Penetrex), 250 mg per dayAztreonam (Azactam), 1 g three timesdailyGentamicin (Garamycin), 3 mg per kg perday in 3 divided doses every 8 hours
Complicatedurinary tractinfections 14 days Fluoroquinolones PO
Up to 3days Ampicillin, 1 g IV every six hours, andgentamicin, 3 mg per kg per day
Urinary tractinfections in young men Seven days Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, one double-strength tablet PO twice dailyFluoroquinolones

D. Treatment of acute uncomplicated cystitis in young women

  1. Three-day regimens appear to offer the optimal combination of convenience, low cost and an efficacy comparableto that of seven-day or longer regimens.

  2. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is the most cost-effectivetreatment. Three-day regimens of ciprofloxacin (Cipro),250 mg twice daily, and ofloxacin (Floxin), 200 mg twicedaily, produce better cure rates with less toxicity.

  3. Quinolones that are useful in treating complicated anduncomplicated cystitis include ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin,ofloxacin, enoxacin (Penetrex), lomefloxacin (Maxaquin),sparfloxacin (Zagam) and levofloxacin (Levaquin).

  4. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole remains the antibiotic ofchoice in the treatment of uncomplicated UTIs in youngwomen. Fluoroquinolones are recommended for patientswho cannot tolerate sulfonamides or trimethoprim or whohave a high frequency of antibiotic resistance. Threedays is the optimal duration of treatment for uncomplicated cystitis. A seven-day course should be consideredin pregnant women, diabetic women and women whohave had symptoms for more than one week.

II. Recurrent cystitis in young women

A. Up to 20 percent of young women with acute cystitis develop recurrent UTIs. The causative organism should beidentified by urine culture.

B. Women who have more than three UTI recurrences within one year can be managed using one of three preventivestrategies.

  1. Acute self-treatment with a three-day course of standardtherapy.

  2. Postcoital prophylaxis with one-half of atrimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole double-strength tablet(40/200 mg).

  3. Continuous daily prophylaxis for six months withtrimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, one-half tablet per day(40/200 mg); nitrofurantoin, 50 to 100 mg per day;norfloxacin (Noroxin), 200 mg per day; cephalexin(Keflex), 250 mg per day; or trimethoprim (Proloprim),100 mg per day.

III. Complicated UTI

A. A complicated UTI is one that occurs because of enlargement of the prostate gland, blockages, or the presence ofresistant bacteria.

B. Accurate urine culture and susceptibility are necessary.Treatment consists of an oral fluoroquinolone. In patientswho require hospitalization, parenteral administration ofceftazidime (Fortaz) or cefoperazone (Cefobid), cefepime(Maxipime), aztreonam (Azactam), imipenem-cilastatin(Primaxin) or the combination of an antipseudomonal penicillin (ticarcillin [Ticar], mezlocillin [Mezlin], piperacillin[Pipracil]) with an aminoglycoside.

C. Enterococci are frequently encountered uropathogens incomplicated UTIs. In areas in which vancomycin-resistantEnterococcus faecium is prevalent, quinupristin-dalfopristin(Synercid) may be useful.

D. Patients with complicated UTIs require at least a 10- to14-day course of therapy. Follow-up urine cultures shouldbe performed within 10 to 14 days after treatment.

IV. Uncomplicated pyelonephritis

A. Women with acute uncomplicated pyelonephritis may present with a mild cystitis-like illness and flank pain; fever,chills, nausea, vomiting, leukocytosis and abdominal pain;or a serious gram-negative bacteremia. Uncomplicatedpyelonephritis is usually caused by E. coli.

B. The diagnosis should be confirmed by urinalysis and byurine culture. Urine cultures demonstrate more than 100,000 CFU per mL of urine in 80 percent of women withpyelonephritis. Blood cultures are positive in up to 20 percent of women who have this infection.

C. Empiric therapy using an oral fluoroquinolone is recommended in women with mild to moderate symptoms. Patients who are too ill to take oral antibiotics should initiallybe treated with a parenterally third-generationcephalosporin, aztreonam, a broad-spectrum penicillin, aquinolone or an aminoglycoside.

D. The total duration of therapy is usually 14 days. Patientswith persistent symptoms after three days of antimicrobialtherapy should be evaluated by renal ultrasonography forevidence of urinary obstruction or abscess.

References: See page 155.

Pubic Infections

I. Molluscum contagiosum

A. This disease is produced by a virus of the pox virus familyand is spread by sexual or close personal contact. Lesionsare usually asymptomatic and multiple, with a centralumbilication. Lesions can be spread by autoinoculation andlast from 6 months to many years.

B. Diagnosis. The characteristic appearance is adequate fordiagnosis, but biopsy may be used to confirm the diagnosis.

C. Treatment. Lesions are removed by sharp dermal curette,liquid nitrogen cryosurgery, or electrodesiccation.

II. Pediculosis pubis (crabs)

A. Phthirus pubis is a blood sucking louse that is unable tosurvive more than 24 hours off the body. It is often transmitted sexually and is principally found on the pubic hairs.Diagnosis is confirmed by locating nits or adult lice on thehair shafts.

B. Treatment

  1. Permethrin cream (Elimite), 5% is the most effective treatment; it is applied for 10 minutes and washed off.

  2. Kwell shampoo, lathered for at least 4 minutes, can also be used, but it is contraindicated in pregnancy or lactation.

  3. All contaminated clothing and linen should be laundered.III.Pubic scabies

A. This highly contagious infestation is caused by theSarcoptes scabiei (0.2-0.4 mm in length). The infestation istransmitted by intimate contact or by contact with infestedclothing. The female mite burrows into the skin, and after 1month, severe pruritus develops. A multiform eruption maydevelop, characterized by papules, vesicles, pustules,urticarial wheals, and secondary infections on the hands,wrists, elbows, belt line, buttocks, genitalia, and outer feet.

B. Diagnosis is confirmed by visualization of burrows andobservation of parasites, eggs, larvae, or red fecalcompactions under microscopy.

C. Treatment. Permethrin 5% cream (Elimite) is massaged in

from the neck down and remove by washing after 8 hours.References: See page 155.

Sexually Transmissible Infections

Approximately 12 million patients are diagnosed with a sexuallytransmissible infection (STI) annually in the United States.Sequella of STIs include infertility, chronic pelvic pain, ectopicpregnancy, and other adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Bacterial Sexually Transmissible Infections
Organism DiagnosticMethods R ecommended Treatment Alternative
Chlamy-Direct fluo-Doxycycline 100 mgOfloxacin (Floxin) 300
dia trachrescent anti-PO 2 times a day formg PO 2 times a day
omatis body, enzyme immunoassay,DNA probe,cell culture, DNA amplification 7 days orAzithromycin (Zithromax) 1 g PO for 7 days
Neisseria Culture Ceftriaxone Levofloxacin
gonor-DNA probe (Rocephin) 125 mg(Levaquin) 250 mg PO
rhoeae IM or Cefixime 400 mg PO or Ciprofloxacin (Cipro)500 mg PO orOfloxacin (Floxin)400 mg POplus Doxycycline100 mg 2 times aday for 7 days orazithromycin 1 g PO once Spectinomycin 2 g IM once
Trepone-Clinical ap-Primary and second-Penicillin allergy in pa-
ma pallipearance ary syphilis and earlytients with primary, sec
dum Dark-field microscopyNontreponemal test: rapid plasmareagin,VDRL Treponemaltest: MHATP, FTAABS latent syphilis (<1year duration):benzathine penicillinG 2.4 million units IM in a single dose. ondary, or early latentsyphilis (<1 year of duration): doxycycline 100mg PO 2 times a dayfor 2 weeks.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Viral Sexually TransmissibleInfections
Organism DiagnosticMethods Recommended Treatment Regimens
HerpesClinical appear-First episode: Acyclovir (Zovirax) 400 mg
simplexance PO 5 times a day for 7-10 days, or
virus Cell culture confirmation famciclovir (Famvir) 250 mg PO 3 times aday for 7-10 days, or valacyclovir (Valtrex)1 g PO 2 times a day for 7-10 days.Recurrent episodes: acyclovir 400 mg PO3 times a day for 5 days, or 800 mg PO 2times a day for 5 days or famciclovir 125mg PO 2 times a day for 5 days, orvalacyclovir 500 mg PO 2 times a day for 5days Daily suppressive therapy: acyclovir 400mg PO 2 times a day, or famciclovir 250mg PO 2 times a day, or valacyclovir 250mg PO 2 times a day, 500 mg PO 1 time aday, or 1000 mg PO 1 time a day
Human Clinical appear-External warts: Patient may apply
papillomaance of podofilox 0.5% solution or gel 2 times a
virus condylomapapulesCytology day for 3 days, followed by 4 days of notherapy, for a total of up to 4 cycles, orimiquimod 5% cream at bedtime 3 times aweek for up to 16 weeks. Cryotherapy withliquid nitrogen or cryoprobe, repeat every1-2 weeks; or podophyllin, repeat weekly;or TCA 80-90%, repeat weekly; or surgicalremoval. Vaginal warts: cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen, or TCA 80-90%, or podophyllin 1025%
Human EnzymeAntiretroviral agents
immunoimmunoassay
deficiencyWestern blot
virus (for confirmation)Polymerasechain reaction
Treatment of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Regimen Inpatient Outpatient
A Cefotetan (Cefotan) 2 g IVq12h; or cefoxitin (Mefoxin) 2g IV q6h plus doxycycline100 mg IV or PO q12h. Ofloxacin (Floxin) 400 mg PObid for 14 days plusmetronidazole 500 mg PO bidfor 14 days.
B Clindamycin 900 mg IV q8hplus gentamicin loading doseIV or IM (2 mg/kg of bodyweight), followed by a maintenance dose (1.5 mg/kg)q8h. Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 250mg IM once; or cefoxitin 2 g IMplus probenecid 1 g PO; orother parenteral third-generation cephalosporin (eg,ceftizoxime, cefotaxime) plusdoxycycline 100 mg PO bid for14 days.

I. Chlamydia Trachomatis

A. Chlamydia trachomatis is the most prevalent STI in theUnited States. Chlamydial infections are most common inwomen age 15-19 years.

B. Routine screening of asymptomatic, sexually active adolescent females undergoing pelvic examination is recommended. Annual screening should be done for women age20-24 years who are either inconsistent users of barriercontraceptives or who acquired a new sex partner or hadmore than one sexual partner in the past 3 months.

II. Gonorrhea. Gonorrhea has an incidence of 800,000 cases annually. Routine screening for gonorrhea is recommendedamong women at high risk of infection, including prostitutes,women with a history of repeated episodes of gonorrhea,women under age 25 years with two or more sex partners inthe past year, and women with mucopurulent cervicitis.

III.Syphilis

A. Syphilis has an incidence of 100,000 cases annually. Therates are highest in the South, among African Americans,and among those in the 20- to 24-year-old age group.

B. Prostitutes, persons with other STIs, and sexual contacts ofpersons with active syphilis should be screened.

IV.Herpes simplex virus and human papillomavirus

A. An estimated 200,000-500,000 new cases of herpes simplex occur annually in the United States. New infections aremost common in adolescents and young adults.

B. Human papillomavirus affects about 30% of young, sexually

active individuals. References: See page 155.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an acute infection of theupper genital tract in women, involving any or all of the uterus,oviducts, and ovaries. PID is a community-acquired infectioninitiated by a sexually transmitted agent. Pelvic inflammatorydisease accounts for approximately 2.5 million outpatient visitsand 200,000 hospitalizations annually.

I. Clinical evaluation

A. Lower abdominal pain is the cardinal presenting symptom inwomen with PID, although the character of the pain may bequite subtle. The onset of pain during or shortly after menses is particularly suggestive. The abdominal pain is usuallybilateral and rarely of more than two weeks' duration.

B. Abnormal uterine bleeding occurs in one-third or more ofpatients with PID. New vaginal discharge, urethritis,proctitis, fever, and chills can be associated signs.

C. Risk factors for PID:

  1. Age less than 35 years

  2. Nonbarrier contraception

  3. New, multiple, or symptomatic sexual partners

  4. Previous episode of PID

  5. Oral contraception

  6. African-American ethnicity

II. Physical examination

A. Only one-half of patients with PID have fever. Abdominalexamination reveals diffuse tenderness greatest in the lowerquadrants, which may or may not be symmetrical. Reboundtenderness and decreased bowel sounds are common. Tenderness in the right upper quadrant does not excludePID, because approximately 10 percent of these patientshave perihepatitis (Fitz-Hugh Curtis syndrome).

B. Purulent endocervical discharge and/or acute cervical motion and adnexal tenderness by bimanual examination isstrongly suggestive of PID. Rectovaginal examinationshould reveal the uterine adnexal tenderness.

III.Diagnosis

A. Diagnostic criteria and guidelines. The index of suspicionfor the clinical diagnosis of PID should be high, especially inadolescent women.

B. The CDC has recommended minimum criteria required forempiric treatment of PID. These major determinants includelower abdominal tenderness, adnexal tenderness, and cervical motion tenderness. Minor determinants (ie, signsthat may increase the suspicion of PID) include:

  1. Fever (oral temperature >101EF; >38.3EC)

  2. Vaginal discharge

  3. Documented STD

  4. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)

  5. C-reactive protein

  6. Systemic signs

  7. Dyspareunia

C. Empiric treatment for pelvic inflammatory disease isrecommended when:

  1. The examination suggests PID

  2. Demographics (risk factors) are consistent with PID

  3. Pregnancy test is negative

Laboratory Evaluation for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
• Pregnancy test • Microscopic exam of vaginal discharge in saline • Complete blood counts • Tests for chlamydia and gonococcus • Urinalysis • Fecal occult blood test • C-reactive protein(optional)

IV. Diagnostic testing

A. Laboratory testing for patients suspected of having PIDalways begins with a pregnancy test to rule out ectopicpregnancy and complications of an intrauterine pregnancy.A urinalysis and a stool for occult blood should be obtainedbecause abnormalities in either reduce the probability ofPID. Blood counts have limited value. Fewer than one-half of PID patients exhibit leukocytosis.

B. Gram stain and microscopic examination of vaginal discharge may provide useful information. If a cervical Gramstain is positive for Gram-negative intracellular diplococci,the probability of PID greatly increases; if negative, it is oflittle use.

C. Increased white blood cells (WBC) in vaginal fluid may bethe most sensitive single laboratory test for PID (78 percent for >3 WBC per high power field. However, the specificity is only 39 percent.

D. Recommended laboratory tests:

  1. Pregnancy test

  2. Microscopic exam of vaginal discharge in saline

  3. Complete blood counts

  4. Tests for chlamydia and gonococcus

  5. Urinalysis

  6. Fecal occult blood test

  7. C-reactive protein(optional)

E. Ultrasound imaging is reserved for acutely ill patients withPID in whom a pelvic abscess is a consideration.

V. Recommendations

A. health(Buy now from <a href="http://www.drugswell.com/wow/index.php">http://www.drugswell.com</a>) care providers should maintain a low threshold forthe diagnosis of PID, and sexually active young womenwith lower abdominal, adnexal, and cervical motion tenderness should receive empiric treatment. The specificity ofthese clinical criteria can be enhanced by the presence offever, abnormal cervical/vaginal discharge, elevated ESRand/or serum C-reactive protein, and the demonstration ofcervical gonorrhea or chlamydia infection.

B. If clinical findings (epidemiologic, symptomatic, and physical examination) suggest PID empiric treatment should beinitiated.

Differential Diagnosis of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Appendicitis Ectopic pregnancyHemorrhagic ovarian cystOvarian torsion Endometriosis Urinary tract Infection Irritable bowel syndrome Somatization Gastroenteritis Cholecystitis Nephrolithiasis

VI. Treatment of pelvic inflammatory disease

A. The two most important initiators of PID, Neisseriagonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis, must be treated,but coverage should also be provided for groups A and Bstreptococci, Gram negative enteric bacilli (Escherichiacoli, Klebsiella spp., and Proteus spp.), and anaerobes.

B. Outpatient therapy

    1. For outpatient therapy, the CDC recommends eitheroral ofloxacin (Floxin, 400 mg twice daily) or levofloxacin

    2. (Levaquin, 500 mg once daily) with or withoutmetronidazole (Flagyl, 500 mg twice daily) for 14 days.An alternative is an initial single dose of ceftriaxone(Rocephin, 250 mg IM), cefoxitin (Mefoxin, 2 g IM plusprobenecid 1 g orally), or another parenteral third-generation cephalosporin, followed by doxycycline (100 mgorally twice daily) with or without metronidazole for 14days. Quinolones are not recommended to treat gonorrhea acquired in California or Hawaii. If the patient mayhave acquired the disease in Asia, Hawaii, or California,cefixime or ceftriaxone should be used.
  1. Another alternative is azithromycin (Zithromax, 1 g POfor Chlamydia coverage) and amoxicillin-clavulanate(Amoxicillin, 875 mg PO) once by directly observedtherapy, followed by amoxicillin-clavulanate (Amoxicillin,875 mg PO BID) for 7 to 10 days.

C. Inpatient therapy

1. For inpatient treatment, the CDC suggests either of thefollowing regimens:

a.
Cefotetan (Cefotan), 2 g IV Q12h, or cefoxitin(Mefoxin, 2 g IV Q6h) plus doxycycline (100 mg IV orPO Q12h)
b.
Clindamycin (Cleocin), 900 mg IV Q8h, plusgentamicin (1-1.5 mg/kg IV q8h)

2. Alternative regimens:

a.
Ofloxacin (Floxin), 400 mg IV Q12h or levofloxacin(Levaquin, 500 mg IV QD) with or withoutmetronidazole (Flagyl, 500 mg IV Q8h). Quinolonesare not recommended to treat gonorrhea acquired inCalifornia or Hawaii. If the patient may have acquiredthe disease in Asia, Hawaii, or California, cefixime or ceftriaxone should be used.
b.
Ampicillin-sulbactam (Unasyn), 3 g IV Q6h plusdoxycycline (100 mg IV or PO Q12h)
  1. Parenteral administration of antibiotics should be continued for 24 hours after clinical response, followed bydoxycycline (100 mg PO BID) or clindamycin (Cleocin,450 mg PO QID) for a total of 14 days.

  2. The following regimen may also be used:Levofloxacin (Levaquin), 500 mg IV Q24h, plusmetronidazole (Flagyl, 500 mg IV Q8h). With this regimen, azithromycin (Zithromax, 1 g PO once) should begiven as soon as the patient is tolerating oral intake.Parenteral therapy is continued until the pelvic tenderness on bimanual examination is mild or absent.

D. Annual screening is recommended for all sexually activewomen under age 25 and for women over 25 if they havenew or multiple sexual partners. A retest for chlamydiashould be completed in 3 to 4 months after chlamydiatreatment because of high rates of reinfection.

E. Additional evaluation:

  1. Serology for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)

  2. Papanicolaou smear

  3. Hepatitis B surface antigen determination and initiationof the vaccine series for patients who are antigen negative and unvaccinated

  4. Hepatitis C virus serology

  5. Serologic tests for syphilisReferences: See page 155.

Vaginitis

Approximately 8-18% of women reported an episode of vaginalsymptoms in the previous year. The etiology of vaginal complaintsincludes infection of the vagina, cervix, and upper genital tract,chemicals or irritants (eg, spermicides or douching), hormonedeficiency, and rarely systemic diseases.

I. Clinical evaluation

A. Symptoms of vaginitis include vaginal discharge, pruritus,irritation, soreness, odor, dyspareunia and dysuria.Dyspareunia is a common feature of atrophic vaginitis. Abdominal pain is suggestive of pelvic inflammatory diseaseand suprapubic pain is suggestive of cystitis.

B. A new sexual partner increases the risk of acquiring sexuallytransmitted diseases, such as trichomonas, chlamydia, orNeisseria gonorrheae. Trichomoniasis often occurs during orimmediately after the menstrual period; candidavulvovaginitis often occurs during the premenstrual period.

C. Antibiotics and high-estrogen oral contraceptive pills maypredispose to candida vulvovaginitis; increased physiologicdischarge can occur with oral contraceptives; pruritus unresponsive to antifungal agents suggests vulvar dermatitis.

II. Physical examination

A. The vulva usually appears normal in bacterial vaginosis.Erythema, edema, or fissure formation suggest candidiasis,trichomoniasis, or dermatitis. Trichomonas is associated with a purulent discharge; candidiasis is associated with a thick,adherent, “cottage cheese-like” discharge; and bacterialvaginosis is associated with a thin, homogeneous, “fishysmelling” discharge. The cervix in women with cervicitis isusually erythematous and friable, with a mucopurulent discharge. Abdominal or cervical motion tenderness is suggestive of PID.

III. Diagnostic studies

A. Vaginal pH. Measurement of vaginal pH should always bedetermined. The pH of the normal vaginal secretions is 4.0 to

4.5. A pH above 4.5 suggests bacterial vaginosis ortrichomoniasis (pH 5 to 6), and helps to exclude candidavulvovaginitis (pH 4 to 4.5).

B. Saline microscopy should look for candidal buds or hyphae,motile trichomonads, epithelial cells studded with adherentcoccobacilli (clue cells), and polymorphonuclear cells(PMNs). The addition of 10% potassium hydroxide to the wetmount is helpful in diagnosing candida vaginitis. Culture forcandida and trichomonas may be useful if microscopy isnegative.

C. Cervical culture. A diagnosis of cervicitis, typiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y due toNeisseria gonorrhoeae or Chlamydia trachomatis, must always be considered in women with purulent vaginal discharge. The presence of high-risk behavior or any sexuallytransmitted disease requires screening for HIV, hepatitis B,and other STDs.

Clinical Manifestations of Vaginitis
Candidal Vaginitis Nonmalodorous, thick, white, "cottage cheese-like"discharge that adheres to vaginal wallsHyphal forms or budding yeast cells on wet-mountPruritus Normal pH (<4.5)
Bacterial Vaginosis Thin, dark or dull grey, homogeneous, malodorousdischarge that adheres to the vaginal wallsElevated pH level (>4.5)Positive KOH (whiff test)Clue cells on wet-mount microscopic evaluation
Trichomonas Vaginalis Copious, yellow-gray or green, homogeneous orfrothy, malodorous dischargeElevated pH level (>4.5)Mobile, flagellated organisms and leukocytes on wet-mount microscopic evaluationVulvovaginal irritation, dysuria
Atrophic Vaginitis Vaginal dryness or burning

IV.Bacterial vaginosis

A. Incidence. Bacterial vaginosis is the most common causeof vaginitis in women of childbearing age, with prevalence of5-60%.

B. Microbiology and risk factors. Bacterial vaginosis represents a change in vaginal flora characterized by a reductionof lactobacilli and an increase of Gardnerella vaginalis,Mobiluncus species, Mycoplasma hominis, anaerobic gram-negative rods, and Peptostreptococcus species. Risk factorsfor bacterial vaginosis include multiple or new sexual partners, early age of first coitus, douching, cigarette smoking,and use of an intrauterine contraceptive device.

C. Clinical features. Symptoms include a “fishy smelling”discharge that is more noticeable after unprotected intercourse. The discharge is off-white, thin, and homogeneous.Pruritus and inflammation are absent.

D. Complications

  1. Pregnant women appear to be at higher risk of pretermdelivery.

  2. Bacterial vaginosis may cause plasma-cell endometritis,postpartum fever, post-hysterectomy vaginal-cuffcellulitis, and postabortal infection.

  3. Bacterial vaginosis is a risk factor for HIV acquisition andtransmission.

E. Diagnosis. Three of the four criteria listed below are necessary for diagnosis.

  1. Homogeneous, grayish-white discharge

  2. Vaginal pH greater than 4.5

  3. Positive whiff-amine test, defined as the presence of afishy odor when 10% KOH is added to vaginal dischargesamples

  4. Clue cells on saline wet mount (epithelial cells studdedwith coccobacilli)

F. Therapy. Treatment is indicated in women with symptomaticinfection and those with asymptomatic infection prior toabortion or hysterectomy.

  1. Metronidazole or clindamycin administered either orally orintravaginally will result in a high rate of clinical cure (7080% at 4 weeks of follow-up). Oral medication is moreconvenient, but associated with a higher rate of systemicside effects than vaginal administration.

  2. The oral regimen is 500 mg twice daily for 7 days. Topicalvaginal therapy with 0.75% metronidazole gel (MetroGel,5 g once daily for 5 days) is as effective as oralmetronidazole.

  3. Single-dose therapy with 2 g of metronidazole achieves asimilar immediate rate of clinical response and is considered an alternative, slightly less effective regimen.

  4. Side effects of metronidazole include a metallic taste, nausea, a disulfiram-like effect with alcohol, interaction with warfarin, and peripheral neuropathy.

  5. Topical vaginal therapy with 2% clindamycin cream (5 gonce daily for 7 days) appears to be less effective thanthe metronidazole regimens but is a reasonable choice.Pseudomembranous colitis has been reported with topical clindamycin. Clindamycin cream should not be usedwith condoms, which may be weakened.

G. Relapse

  1. Approximately 30% of patients have a recurrence withinthree months. Recurrence usually reflects a failure toeradicate the offending organisms. Management ofsymptomatic relapse includes prolonged therapy for 10 to14 days.

  2. Most women with a history of recurrent infection benefitfrom suppressive therapy with metronidazole gel 0.75%for 10 days, followed by twice-weekly applications forthree to six months.

V. Candida vulvovaginitis

A. Incidence. Candida vulvovaginitis accounts for one-third ofvaginitis. Up to 75% of women report having had at leastone episode of candidiasis. The condition is rare beforemenarche. It is less common in postmenopausal women,unless they are taking estrogen replacement therapy.

B. Microbiology and risk factors. Candida albicans is responsible for 80-92% of vulvovaginal candidiasis. Sporadicattacks of vulvovaginal candidiasis usually occur without anidentifiable precipitating factor.

  1. Antibiotics. A minority of women are prone tovulvovaginal candidiasis while taking antibiotics.

  2. Intrauterine devices have been associated with vulvovaginal candidiasis.

  3. Pregnancy. Symptomatic infection is more common in pregnancy.

C. Clinical features. Vulvar pruritus is the dominant feature.Women may also complain of dysuria (external rather thanurethral), soreness, irritation, and dyspareunia. There isoften little or no discharge; that which is present is typiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)ywhite and clumpy. Physical examination often reveals erythema of the vulva and vaginal mucosa. The discharge isthick, adherent, and “cottage cheese-like.”

D. Diagnosis

  1. The vaginal pH is typiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y 4 to 4.5, which distinguishescandidiasis from Trichomonas or bacterial vaginosis. Thediagnosis is confirmed by finding the organism on a wetmount; adding 10% potassium hydroxide facilitates recognition of budding yeast and hyphae. Microscopy isnegative in 50% of patients with vulvovaginal candidiasis.

  2. Empiric therapy is often considered in women with typicalclinical features, a normal vaginal pH, and no otherpathogens visible on microscopy. Culture should beperformed in patients with persistent or recurrent symptoms.

E. Therapy

  1. Women with mild infection usually respond to treatmentwithin a couple of days. More severe infections require alonger course of therapy and may take up to 14 days tofully resolve.

  2. Uncomplicated infection. Both oral and topicalantimycotic drugs achieve comparable clinical cure ratesthat are in excess of 80%.

  3. Oral azole agents are more convenient. Side effects ofsingle-dose fluconazole (150 mg) tend to be mild andinfrequent, including gastrointestinal intolerance, headache, and rash.

  4. Complicated infections. Factors that predispose tocomplicated infection include uncontrolled diabetes,immunosuppression, and a history of recurrentvulvovaginal candidiasis. Women with severe inflammation or complicated infection require seven to 14 days oftopical therapy or two doses of oral therapy 72 hours apart.

  5. Partner treatment is not necessary since this is not aprimary route of transmission.

  6. Pregnancy. Topical azoles applied for seven days arerecommended for treatment during pregnancy.

Treatment regimens for yeast vaginitis*
1-day regimensClotrimazole vaginal tablets (Mycelex G), 500 mg hs**Fluconazole tablets (Diflucan), 150 mg POItraconazole capsules (Sporanox), 200 mg PO bidTioconazole 6.5% vaginal ointment (Vagistat-1), 4.6 g hs** [5 g]
3-day regimensButoconazole nitrate 2% vaginal cream (Femstat 3), 5 g hs [28 g] Clotrimazole vaginal inserts (Gyne-Lotrimin 3), 200 mg hs**Miconazole vaginal suppositories (Monistat 3), 200 mg hs**Terconazole 0.8% vaginal cream (Terazol 3), 5 g hsTerconazole vaginal suppositories (Terazol 3), 80 mg hsItraconazole capsules (Sporanox), 200 mg PO qd (4)
5-day regimenKetoconazole tablets (Nizoral), 400 mg PO bid (4)
7-day regimensClotrimazole 1% cream (Gyne-Lotrimin, Mycelex-7, Sweet'n FreshClotrimazole-7), 5 g hs**Clotrimazole vaginal tablets (Gyne-Lotrimin, Mycelex-7, Sweet'n FreshClotrimazole-7), 100 mg hs**Miconazole 2% vaginal cream (Femizol-M, Monistat 7), 5 g hs**Miconazole vaginal suppositories (Monistat 7), 100 mg hs**Terconazole 0.4% vaginal cream (Terazol 7), 5 g hs
14-day regimensNystatin vaginal tablets (Mycostatin), 100,000 U hsBoric acid No. 0 gelatin vaginal suppositories, 600 mg bid (2)
*Suppositories can be used if inflammation is predominantly vaginal;creams if vulvar; a combination if both. Cream-suppository combinationpacks available: clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin, Mycelex); miconazole(Monistat, M-Zole). If diagnosis is in doubt, consider oral therapy toavoid amelioration of symptoms with use of creams. Use 1-day or 3-dayregimen if compliance is an issue. Miconazole nitrate may be usedduring pregnancy. **Nonprescription formulation. If nonprescription therapies fail, useterconazole 0.4% cream or 80-mg suppositories at bedtime for 7 days.
Management options for complicated or recurrent yeastvaginitis
Extend any 7-day regimen to 10 to 14 daysEliminate use of nylon or tight-fitting clothingConsider discontinuing oral contraceptivesConsider eating 8 oz yogurt (with Lactobacillus acidophilus culture) perdayImprove glycemic control in diabetic patients For long-term suppression of recurrent vaginitis, use ketoconazole, 100mg (½ of 200-mg tablet) qd for 6 months

F. Women with recurrent infections should receive longerinitial therapy (10 to 14 days of a topical agent orfluconazole 150 mg orally with a repeat dose three dayslater). Antifungal maintenance suppressive therapy thatshould be taken for six months after an initial induction regimen include ketoconazole (100 mg per day), itraconazole(100 mg per day or 400 mg once monthly), fluconazole (100to 150 mg once per week), and clotrimazole (500 mg vaginalsuppository once per week). Alternatively, fluconazole 200mg orally may be given every three days until the patient isasymptomatic, with redosing weekly, tapered to every twoweeks, and then every three to four weeks. Redosing onceper month just before menses may be effective because thisis when most patients flare. Patients receiving long-term ketoconazole should be monitored for hepatotoxicity.

VI. Trichomoniasis

A. Trichomoniasis, the third most common cause of vaginitis, iscaused by the flagellated protozoan, Trichomonas vaginalis.The disorder is virtually always sexually transmitted.

B. Clinical features. Trichomoniasis in women ranges from anasymptomatic state to a severe, acute, inflammatory disease.Signs and symptoms include a purulent, malodorous, thindischarge (70%) with associated burning, pruritus, dysuria,and dyspareunia. Physical examination reveals erythema ofthe vulva and vaginal mucosa; the classic green-yellow frothydischarge is observed in 10-30%. Punctate hemorrhagesmay be visible on the vagina and cervix in 2%.

C. Complications. Infection is associated with premature rupture of the membranes and prematurity; however, treatmentof asymptomatic infection has not been shown to reducethese complications. Trichomoniasis is a risk factor for development of post-hysterectomy cellulitis. The infection facilitates transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus.

D. Diagnosis

  1. The presence of motile trichomonads on wet mount isdiagnostic of infection, but this occurs in only 50-70% ofcases. Other findings include an elevated vaginal pH(>4.5) and an increase in polymorphonuclear leukocyteson saline microscopy.

  2. Culture on Diamond's medium has a 95% high sensitivityand should be considered in patients with elevated vaginalpH, increased numbers of polymorphonuclear leukocytes,and an absence of motile trichomonads and clue cells; rapid diagnostic kits using DNA probes and monoclonalantibodies have a sensitivity of 90%.

  3. Trichomonads are often seen on conventional Papanicolaou smears, but false positive results are notuncommon (30%). Thus, asymptomatic women withTrichomonas identified on conventional Pap smear shouldnot be treated until the diagnosis is confirmed by wetmount. Treatment of asymptomatic women with trichomonads noted on liquid-based cervical cytology is recommended.

E. Therapy is indicated in all nonpregnant women diagnosedwith Trichomonas vaginitis and their sexual partner(s). Intercourse should not resume until both partners have completed treatment.

  1. Metronidazole is the treatment of choice. Oral is preferredto local vaginal therapy since systemic administrationachieves therapeutic drug levels in the urethra andperiurethral glands. Sexual partners should also betreated.

  2. Similar cure rates are obtained with oral metronidazole in a dose of 500 mg twice a day for seven days (cure rate,85-90%) and a single 2 g oral dose (82-88%). Patientsshould be advised not to take alcohol for the duration of 48 hours after treatment because of the disulfiram-like (Antabuse effect) reaction.

  3. Pregnancy. Metronidazole is the drug of choice in pregnancy. Metronidazole 500 mg twice daily for 5-7 days ispreferred to the 2 g single-dose regimen, but both regimens are acceptable. Treatment of asymptomatic infections is not recommended during pregnancy because itdoes not prevent preterm delivery.

  4. Refractory cases. If treatment failure occurs, retreatment with metronidazole (500 mg PO twice a day for sevendays) is recommended. If treatment failure recurs again,the woman should be treated with a single oral 2 g doseof oral metronidazole daily for 3-5 days.

Treatment options for trichomoniasis
Initial measures Metronidazole (Flagyl, Protostat), 2 g PO in a single dose, ormetronidazole, 500 mg PO bid X 7 days, or metronidazole, 375 mg PObid X 7 daysTreat male sexual partners
Measures for treatment failure Treatment sexual contacts Re-treat with metronidazole, 500 mg PO bid X 7 days If infection persists, confirm with culture and re-treat with metronidazole, 2-4 g PO qd X 3-10 days
VII.
Other causes of vaginitis and vaginal discharge
A.
Atrophic vaginitis
  1. Reduced endogenous estrogen causes thinning of thevaginal epithelium. Symptoms include vaginal soreness,postcoital burning, dyspareunia, and occasional spotting.The vaginal mucosa is thin with diffuse erythema, occasional petechiae or ecchymoses, and few or no vaginalfolds. There may be a serosanguineous or watery discharge with a pH of 5.0-7.0.

  2. Treatment consists of topical vaginal estrogen. Vaginalring estradiol (Estring), a silastic ring impregnated withestradiol, is the preferred means of delivering estrogen tothe vagina. The silastic ring delivers 6 to 9 µg of estradiolto the vagina daily. The rings are changed once everythree months. Concomitant progestin therapy is not necessary.

  3. Conjugated estrogens (Premarin), 0.5 gm of cream, orone-eighth of an applicatorful daily into the vagina forthree weeks, followed by twice weekly thereafter is alsoeffective. Concomitant progestin therapy is not necessary.

  4. Estrace cream (estradiol) can also by given by vaginalapplicator at a dose of one-eighth of an applicator or 0.5g (which contains 50 µg of estradiol) daily into the vaginafor three weeks, followed by twice weekly thereafter.Concomitant progestin therapy is not necessary.

  5. Oral estrogen (Premarin) 0.3 mg qd should also provide relief.

B. Desquamative inflammatory vaginitis

1. Chronic purulent vaginitis usually occurs perimenopausally, with diffuse exudative vaginitis, massive vaginal-cell exfoliation, purulent vaginal discharge,and occasional vaginal and cervical spotted rash. Laboratory findings included an elevated pH, increased numbersof parabasal cells, the absence of gram-positive bacilliand their replacement by gram-positive cocci on Gramstaining. Clindamycin 2% cream is usually effective.

C. Noninfectious vaginitis and vulvitis

  1. Noninfectious causes of vaginitis include irritants (eg,minipads, spermicides, povidone-iodine, topicalantimycotic drugs, soaps and perfumes) and contactdermatitis (eg, latex condoms and antimycotic creams).

  2. Typical symptoms, including pruritus, irritation, burning,soreness, and variable discharge, are most commonlyconfused with acute candida vaginitis. The diagnosisshould be suspected in symptomatic women who do nothave an otherwise apparent infectious cause.

  3. Management of noninfectious vaginitis includes identifying and eliminating the offending agent. Sodium bicarbonate sitz baths and topical vegetable oils may providesome local relief. Topical corticosteroids are not recommended.

References: See page 155.

Obstetrics

Prenatal Care

I. Prenatal history and physical examination

A. Diagnosis of pregnancy

  1. Amenorrhea is usually the first sign of conception. Othersymptoms include breast fullness and tenderness, skinchanges, nausea, vomiting, urinary frequency, and fatigue.

  2. Pregnancy tests. Urine pregnancy tests may be positivewithin days of the first missed menstrual period. Serumbeta human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is accurate upto a few days after implantation.

  3. Fetal heart tones can be detected as early as 11-12weeks from the last menstrual period (LMP) by Doppler.The normal fetal heart rate is 120-160 beats per minute.

  4. Fetal movements ("quickening") are first felt by thepatient at 17-19 weeks.

  5. Ultrasound will visualize a gestational sac at 5-6 weeksand a fetal pole with movement and cardiac activity by 78 weeks. Ultrasound can estimate fetal age accurately ifcompleted before 24 weeks.

  6. Estimated date of confinement. The mean duration of pregnancy is 40 weeks from the LMP. Estimated date ofconfinement (EDC) can be calculated by Nägele's rule:Add 7 days to the first day of the LMP, then subtract 3months.

B. Contraceptive history. Recent oral contraceptive usageoften causes postpill amenorrhea, and may cause erroneous pregnancy dating.

C. Gynecologic and obstetric history

  1. Gravidity is the total number of pregnancies. Parity isexpressed as the number of term pregnancies, pretermpregnancies, abortions, and live births.

  2. The character and length of previous labors, type ofdelivery, complications, infant status, and birth weight arerecorded.

  3. Assess prior cesarean sections and determine type of C-section (low transverse or classical), and determinereason it was performed.

D. medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) and surgical history and prior hospitalizations aredocumented.

E. Medications and allergies are recorded.

F. Family history of medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) illnesses, hereditary illness, ormultiple gestation is sought.

G. Social history. Cigarettes, alcohol, or illicit drug use.

H. Review of systems. Abdominal pain, constipation, headaches, vaginal bleeding, dysuria or urinary frequency, orhemorrhoids.

Basic Prenatal medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) History
Endocrine disorder ThyroidAdrenal Diabetes Autoimmune disorder Systemic lupuserythematosusRheumatoid arthritis
Cardiovascular disease HypertensionArrhythmiaCongenital anomaliesRheumatic Fever Thromboembolic disease History of blood transfusionPulmonary diseaseAsthma Tuberculosis
Kidney diseasePyelonephritisUrinary tract infectionsAnomalies Breast disorders Infectious diseases HerpesGonorrhea ChlamydiaSyphilisHIV
Neurologic or muscular disordersSeizure disorder AneurysmArteriovenous malformation Gynecologic historyAbnormal PAP smear Genital tract disease or procedures
Gastrointestinal disease HepatitisGall bladder disease Surgical proceduresAllergiesMedications
Inflammatory bowel disease Substance abuse Alcohol
CigarettesIllicit drugs
Current Pregnancy History
Medications taken Alcohol use Cigarette use Illicit drug useExposure to radiation Vaginal bleedingNausea, vomiting, weight lossInfections Exposure to toxic substances
Initial Prenatal Assessment of past Obstetrical History
Date of deliveryGestational age at deliveryLocation of deliverySex of child Birth weightMode of delivery Type of anesthesiaLength of laborOutcome (miscarriage, stillbirth,ectopic, etc.)Details (eg, type of cesarean section scar, forceps, etc.)Complications (maternal, fetalchild)

I. Physical examination

  1. Weight, funduscopic examination, thyroid, breast, lungs,and heart are examined.

  2. An extremity and neurologic exam are completed, andthe presence of a cesarean section scar is sought.

3. Pelvic examination

a. Pap smear and culture for gonorrhea are completedroutinely. Chlamydia culture is completed in high-riskpatients.

b. Estimation of gestational age by uterine size

(1)
The nongravid uterus is 3 x 4 x 7 cm. The uterusbegins to change in size at 5-6 weeks.
(2)
Gestational age is estimated by uterine size: 8weeks = 2 x normal size; 10 weeks = 3 x normal; 12 weeks = 4 x normal.
(3)
At 12 weeks the fundus becomes palpable at thesymphysis pubis.
(4)
At 16 weeks, the uterus is midway between thesymphysis pubis and the umbilicus.
(5)
At 20 weeks, the uterus is at the umbilicus. After 20 weeks, there is a correlation between the number of weeks of gestation and the number of centimeters from the pubic symphysis to the top of thefundus.
(6)
Uterine size that exceeds the gestational datingby 3 or more weeks suggests multiple gestation,molar pregnancy, or (most commonly) an inaccurate date for LMP. Ultrasonography will confirminaccurate dating or intrauterine growth failure.
c.
Adnexa are palpated for masses.

II. Initial visit laboratory testing

A. Routine. A standard panel of laboratory tests should beobtained on every pregnant woman at the first prenatalvisit. Chlamydia screening is recommended for all pregnant women.

Initial Prenatal Laboratory Examination
Blood type and antibody screenRhesus typeHematocrit or hemoglobinPAP smear Rubella status (immune ornonimmune)Syphilis screen Urinary infection screenHepatitis B surface antigenHIV counseling and testingChlamydia

B. Human immunodeficiency virus

  1. HIV testing is recommended for all pregnant women.

  2. Retesting in the third trimester (around 36 weeks ofgestation) is recommended for women at high risk foracquiring HIV infection.

C. At-risk women should receive additional tests:

  1. Gonorrhea, tuberculosis and red cell indices to screen for thalassemia (eg, MCV <80), hemoglobin electrophoresis to detect hemoglobinopathies (eg, sickle cell,thalassemias)

  2. Hexosaminidase A for Tay Sachs screening (serum testin nonpregnant and leukocyte assay in pregnant individuals), DNA analysis for Canavan's disease, cystic fibrosis carrier testing, serum phenylalanine level,toxoplasmosis screen, and Hepatitis C antibodies.

  3. Testing for sexually transmitted diseases (eg, HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B surface antigen, chlamydia, gonorrhea)should be repeated in the third trimester in any womanat high risk for acquiring these infections; all womenunder age 25 years should be retested for Chlamydiatrachomatis late in pregnancy.

D. CBC, AB blood typing and Rh factor, antibody screen, rubella, VDRL/RPR, hepatitis B surface Ag.

E. Pap smear, urine pregnancy test, urinalysis and urine culture. Cervical culture for gonorrhea and chlamydia.

F. Tuberculosis skin testing, HIV counseling/testing.

G. Hemoglobin electrophoresis is indicated in risks groups,such as sickle hemoglobin in African patients, B-thalassemia in Mediterranean patients, and alpha-thalassemia in Asian patients. Tay-Sachs carrier testing isindicated in Jewish patients.

III.Initial patient education

A. Frequency of prenatal visits, recommendations for nutrition,weight gain, exercise, rest, and sexual activity, routine pregnancy monitoring (eg, weight, urine dipstick, bloodpressure, uterine growth, fetal activity and heart rate),listeria precautions, toxoplasmosis precautions (eg, handwashing, eating habits, cat care) should be discussed.

B. Abstinence from alcohol, cigarettes, illicit drugs should beassessed. Information on the safety of commonly usednonprescription drugs, signs and symptoms to be reportedshould be discussed, as appropriate for gestational age(eg, vaginal bleeding, ruptured membranes, contractions,decreased fetal activity).

C. Headache and backache. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 325650 mg every 3-4 hours is effective. Aspirin is contraindicated.

D. Nausea and vomiting. First-trimester morning sicknessmay be relieved by eating frequent, small meals, gettingout of bed slowly after eating a few crackers, and by avoiding spicy or greasy foods. Promethazine (Phenergan) 12.550 mg PO q4-6h prn or diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 25-50mg tid-qid is useful.

E. Constipation. A high-fiber diet with psyllium (Metamucil),increased fluid intake, and regular exercise should beadvised. Docusate (Colace) 100 mg bid may provide relief.

IV.Nutrition, vitamins, and weight gain

A. All pregnant women should be encouraged to eat a well-balanced diet. Folic acid is recommended in the preconceptional and early prenatal period to prevent neuraltube defects (NTDs). A standard prenatal multivitaminsatisfies the requirements of most pregnant women.

B. Nutritional recommendations for pregnant women arebased upon the prepregnancy body mass index (BMI). Aweight gain of 12.5 to 18 kg (28 to 40 lb) for underweightwomen (BMI<19.8), 7 to 11.5 kg (15 to 25 lb) for overweight women (BMI $26), and 11.5 to 16 kg (25 to 35 lb)for women of average weight (BMI 19.8 to 26.0) is recommended.

V. Clinical assessment at first trimester prenatal visits

A. Routine examination at each subsequent visit consists ofmeasurement of blood pressure and weight, measurementof the uterine fundus to assess fetal growth, auscultation offetal heart tones, and determination of fetal presentationand activity. The urine is typiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y screened for protein andglucose at each visit.

B. At 9 to 12 weeks the fetal heart usually can be heard by ofgestation using a Doppler instrument. Transvaginal ultrasound can determine fetal viability as early as 5.5 to 6.5weeks.

Frequency of Prenatal Care Visits in Low-Risk Pregnancies
<28 weeks Every month
28-36 weeks Every 2 weeks
36-delivery Every 1 week until delivery

VI.Clinical assessment at second trimester visits

A. Questions for each follow-up visit

1. First detection of fetal movement (quickening)

should occur at around 17 weeks in a multigravida andat 19 weeks in a primigravida. Fetal movement should be documented at each visit after 17 weeks.

2. Vaginal bleeding or symptoms of preterm labor

should be sought.

B. Fetal heart rate is documented at each visit.

VII.
Second-trimester laboratory
A.
Maternal serum testing at 15-16 weeks
  1. Triple screen (α-fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotropin [hCG], estriol). In women under age 35 years,screening for fetal Down syndrome is accomplished witha triple screen. Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein iselevated in 20-25% of all cases of Down syndrome, andit is elevated in fetal neural tube deficits. Levels of hCG are higher in Down syndrome and levels ofunconjugated estriol are lower in Down syndrome.

  2. If levels are abnormal, an ultrasound examination is performed and genetic amniocentesis is offered. The triplescreen identifies 60% of Down syndrome cases. Lowlevels of all three serum analytes identifies 60-75% of allcases of fetal trisomy 18.

B. At 15-18 weeks, genetic amniocentesis should be offered to patients >35 years old, and it should be offered if abirth defect has occurred in the mother, father, or in previous offspring.

C. Screening ultrasound. Ultrasound measurement of crown-rump length at 7 to 14 weeks is the most accuratetechnique for estimation of gestational age; it is accuratewithin three to five days.

D. At 24-28 weeks, a one-hour Glucola (blood glucose measurement 1 hour after 50-gm oral glucose) is obtained toscreen for gestational diabetes. Those with a particular risk(eg, previous gestational diabetes or fetal macrosomia),require earlier testing. If the 1 hour test result is greaterthan 140 mg/dL, a 3-hour glucose tolerance test is necessary.

E. Second trimester education. Discomforts include backache, round ligament pain, constipation, and indigestion.

VIII. Clinical assessment at third trimester visits

A. Fetal movement is documented. Vaginal bleeding orsymptoms of preterm labor should be sought.Preeclampsia symptoms (blurred vision, headache, rapidweight gain, edema) are sought.

B. Fetal heart rate is documented at each visit.

C. At 26-30 weeks, repeat hemoglobin and hematocrit areobtained to determine the need for iron supplementation.

D. At 28-30 weeks, an antibody screen is obtained in Rh-negative women, and D immune globulin (RhoGAM) isadministered if negative.

E. At 36 weeks, repeat serologic testing for syphilis is recommended for high risk groups.

F. Sexually transmitted disease. Testing for sexually transmitted diseases (eg, HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B surface antigen, chlamydia, gonorrhea) should be repeated in the thirdtrimester in any woman at high risk for acquiring theseinfections; all women under age 25 years should be retested for Chlamydia trachomatis late in pregnancy.

G. Screening for group B streptococcus colonization at35-37 weeks. All pregnant women should be screened forgroup B beta-hemolytic streptococcus (GBS) colonizationwith swabs of both the lower vagina and rectum at 35 to 37weeks of gestation. The only patients who are excludedfrom screening are those with GBS bacteriuria earlier in thecurrent pregnancy or those who gave birth to a previousinfant with invasive GBS disease. These latter patients arenot included in the screening recommendation becausethey should receive intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis regardless of the colonization status.

H. Influenza immunization is recommended for women in the second and third trimesters and for high-risk womenprior to influenza season regardless of stage of pregnancy.

I. Third trimester education

  1. Signs of labor. The patient should Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) physician whenrupture of membranes or contractions have occurredevery 5 minutes for one hour.

  2. Danger signs. Preterm labor, rupture of membranes,bleeding, edema, signs of preeclampsia.

  3. Common discomforts. Cramps, edema, frequent urination.

J. At 36 weeks, a cervical exam may be completed. Fetalposition should be assessed by palpation (Leopold’s Maneuvers).

References: See page 155.

Normal Labor

Labor consists of the process by which uterine contractions expelthe fetus. A term pregnancy is 37 to 42 weeks from the last menstrual period (LMP).

I. Obstetrical History and Physical Examination

A. History of the present labor

  1. Contractions. The frequency, duration, onset, and intensity of uterine contractions should be determined. Contractions may be accompanied by a '’bloody show" (passage of blood-tinged mucus from the dilating cervical os).Braxton Hicks contractions are often felt by patients during the last weeks of pregnancy. They are usually irregular, mild, and do not cause cervical change.

  2. Rupture of membranes. Leakage of fluid may occuralone or in conjunction with uterine contractions. Thepatient may report a large gush of fluid or increasedmoisture. The color of the liquid should be determine,including the presence of blood or meconium.

  3. Vaginal bleeding should be assessed. Spotting or blood-tinged mucus is common in normal labor. Heavy vaginalbleeding may be a sign of placental abruption.

  4. Fetal movement. A progressive decrease in fetal movement from baseline, should prompt an assessment offetal well-being with a nonstress test or biophysical profile.

B. History of present pregnancy

  1. Estimated date of confinement (EDC) is calculated as40 weeks from the first day of the LMP.

  2. Fetal heart tones are first heard with a Doppler instrument 10-12 weeks from the LMP.

  3. Quickening (maternal perception of fetal movement)occurs at about 17 weeks.

  4. Uterine size before 16 weeks is an accurate measure of dates.

  5. Ultrasound measurement of fetal size before 24 weeks of gestation is an accurate measure of dates.

  6. Prenatal history. medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) problems during this pregnancy should be reviewed, including urinary tract infections, diabetes, or hypertension.

  7. Antepartum testing. Nonstress tests, contraction stress tests, biophysical profiles.

  8. Review of systems. Severe headaches, scotomas, hand and facial edema, or epigastric pain (preeclampsia)should be sought. Dysuria, urinary frequency or flank painmay indicate cystitis or pyelonephritis.

C. Obstetrical history. Past pregnancies, durations and outcomes, preterm deliveries, operative deliveries, prolongedlabors, pregnancy-induced hypertension should be assessed.

D. Past medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) history of asthma, hypertension, or renaldisease should be sought.

II. Physical examination

A. Vital signs are assessed.

B. Head. Funduscopy should seek hemorrhages or exudates,which may suggest diabetes or hypertension. Facial, handand ankle edema suggest preeclampsia.

C. Chest. Auscultation of the lungs for wheezes and cracklesmay indicate asthma or heart failure.

D. Uterine Size. Until the middle of the third trimester, the distance in centimeters from the pubic symphysis to theuterine fundus should correlate with the gestational age inweeks. Toward term, the measurement becomes progressively less reliable because of engagement of the presenting part.

E. Estimation of fetal weight is completed by palpation of the gravid uterus.

F. Leopold's maneuvers are used to determine the position ofthe fetus.

  1. The first maneuver determines which fetal pole occupiesthe uterine fundus. The breech moves with the fetal body.The vertex is rounder and harder, feels more globularthan the breech, and can be moved separately from thefetal body.

  2. Second maneuver. The lateral aspects of the uterus arepalpated to determine on which side the fetal back or fetalextremities (the small parts) are located.

  3. Third maneuver. The presenting part is moved from sideto side. If movement is difficult, engagement of the presenting part has occurred.

  4. Fourth maneuver. With the fetus presenting by vertex,the cephalic prominence may be palpable on the side ofthe fetal small parts.

G. Pelvic examination. The adequacy of the bony pelvis, theintegrity of the fetal membranes, the degree of cervicaldilatation and effacement, and the station of the presentingpart should be determined.

Labor History and Physical

Chief compliant: Contractions, rupture of membranes. HPI: ___ year old Gravida (number of pregnancies) Para (number of deliveries). Gestational age, last menstrual period, estimated date of confinement. Contractions (onset, frequency, intensity), rupture of membranes (time, color). Vaginal bleeding (consistency, quantity, bloody show); fetal movement. Fetal Heart Rate Strip: Baseline rate, accelerations, reactivity, decelerations, contraction frequency. Dates: First day of last menstrual period, estimated date of confinement. Ultrasound dating. Prenatal Care: Date of first exam, number of visits; has size been equal to dates? infections, hypertension, diabetes. Obstetrical History: Dates of prior pregnancies, gestational age, route (C-section with indications and type of uterine incision), weight, complications, length of labor, hypertension. Gynecologic History: Menstrual history (menarche, interval, duration), herpes, gonorrhea, chlamydia, abortions; oral contraceptives. Past medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) History: Illnesses, asthma, hypertension, diabetes, renal disease, surgeries. Medications: Iron, prenatal vitamins. Allergies: Penicillin, codeine? Social History: Smoking, alcohol, drug use. Family History: Hypertension, diabetes, bleeding disorders. Review of Systems: Severe headaches, scotomas, blurred vision, hand and face edema, epigastric pain, pruritus, dysuria, fever.

Physical Exam General Appearance: Vitals: BP, pulse, respirations, temperature. HEENT: Funduscopy, facial edema, jugular venous distention. Chest: Wheezes, rhonchi. Cardiovascular: Rhythm, S1, S2, murmurs. Abdomen: Fundal height, Leopold's maneuvers (lie, presentation). Estimated fetal weight (EFW), tenderness, scars. Cervix: Dilatation, effacement, station, position, status of membranes, presentation. Vulvar herpes lesions. Extremities: Cyanosis, clubbing, edema. Neurologic: Deep tender reflexes, clonus. Prenatal Labs: Obtain results of one hour post glucola, RPR/VDRL, rubella, blood type, Rh, CBC, Pap, PPD, hepatitis BsAg, UA, C and S. Current Labs: Hemoglobin, hematocrit, glucose, UA; urine dipstick for protein. Assessment: Intrauterine pregnancy (IUP) at 40 weeks, admitted with the following problems: Plan: Anticipated type of labor and delivery. List plan for each problem.

H. Extremities. Severe lower extremity or hand edema suggests preeclampsia. Deep-tendon hyperreflexia and clonusmay signal impending seizures.

I. Laboratory tests

  1. Prenatal labs should be documented, including CBC,blood type, Rh, antibody screen, serologic test for syphilis, rubella antibody titer, urinalysis, culture, Pap smear,cervical cultures for gonorrhea and Chlamydia, and hepatitis B surface antigen (HbsAg).

  2. During labor, the CBC, urinalysis and RPR are repeated.The HBSAG is repeated for high-risk patients. A clot ofblood is placed on hold.

J. Fetal heart rate. The baseline heart rate, variability, accelerations, and decelerations are recorded.

III. Normal labor

A. Labor is characterized by uterine contractions of sufficientfrequency, intensity, and duration to result in effacement anddilatation of the cervix.

B. The first stage of labor starts with the onset of regularcontractions and ends with complete dilatation (10 cm). Thisstage is further subdivided into the latent and an activephases.

  1. The latent phase starts with the onset of regular uterinecontractions and is characterized by slow cervical dilatation to 4 cm. The latent phase is variable in length.

  2. The active phase follows and is characterized by morerapid dilatation to 10 cm. During the active phase oflabor, the average rate of cervical dilatation is 1.5cm/hour in the multipara and 1.2 cm/hour in the nullipara.

C. The second stage of labor begins with complete dilatationof the cervix and ends with delivery of the infant. It is characterized by voluntary and involuntary pushing. The averagesecond stage of labor is one-half hour in a multipara and 1hour in the primipara.

D. The third stage of labor begins with the delivery of theinfant and ends with the delivery of the placenta.

E. Intravenous fluids. IV fluid during labor is usually Ringer'slactate or 0.45% normal saline with 5% dextrose. Intravenous fluid infused rapidly or given as a bolus should bedextrose-free because maternal hyperglycemia can occur.

F. Activity. Patients in the latent phase of labor are usuallyallowed to walk.

G. Narcotic and analgesic drugs

  1. Nalbuphine (Nubain) 5 to 10 mg SC or IV q2-3h.

  2. Butorphanol (Stadol) 2 mg IM q3-4h or 0.5-1.0 mg IVq1.5-2.0h OR

  3. Meperidine (Demerol) 50 to 100 mg IM q3-4h or 10 to 25mg IV q1.5-3.0 h OR

  4. Narcotics should be avoided if their peak action will nothave diminished by the time of delivery. Respiratorydepression is reversed with naloxone (Narcan): Adults,

0.4 mg IV or IM and neonates, 0.01 mg/kg.

H. Epidural anesthesia

  1. Contraindications include infection in the lumbar area, clotting defect, active neurologic disease, sensitivity tothe anesthetic, hypovolemia, and septicemia.

  2. Risks include hypotension, respiratory arrest, toxic drugreaction, and rare neurologic complications. An epiduralhas no significant effect on the progress of labor.

  3. Before the epidural is initiated, the patient is hydratedwith 500-1000 mL of dextrose-free intravenous fluid.

Labor and Delivery Admitting Orders

Admit: Labor and Delivery Diagnoses: Intrauterine pregnancy at ____ weeks. Condition: Satisfactory Vitals: q1 hr per routine Activity: May ambulate as tolerated. Nursing: I and O. Catheterize prn; external or internal monitors. Diet: NPO except ice chips. IV Fluids: Lactated Ringers with 5% dextrose at 125 cc/h. Medications:

Epidural at 4-5 cm. Nalbuphine (Nubain) 5-10 mg IV/SC q2-3h prn OR Butorphanol (Stadol) 0.5-1 mg IV q1.5-2h prn OR Meperidine (Demerol) 25-75 mg slow IV q1.5-3h prn pain

AND

Promethazine (Phenergan) 25-50 mg, IV q3-4h prn nausea

OR

Hydroxyzine (Vistaril) 25-50 mg IV q3-4h prnFleet enema PR prn constipation.Labs: CBC, dipstick urine protein, blood type and Rh, antibody screen, VDRL, HBsAg, rubella, type and screen (Csection).

I. Intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis for group B streptococcus is recommended for the following:

  1. Pregnant women with a positive screening culture unlessa planned Cesarean section is performed in the absenceof labor or rupture of membranes

  2. Pregnant women who gave birth to a previous infant withinvasive GBS disease

  3. Pregnant women with documented GBS bacteriuria duringthe current pregnancy

  4. Pregnant women whose culture status is unknown (culturenot performed or result not available) and who also havedelivery at <37 weeks of gestation, amniotic membranerupture for >18 hours, or intrapartum temperature >100.4ºF (>38ºC)

  5. The recommended IAP regimen is penicillin G (5 millionunits IV initial dose, then 2.5 million units IV Q4h). Inwomen with non-immediate-type penicillin-allergy,cefazolin (Ancef, 2 g initial dose, then 1 g Q8h) is recommended. Clindamycin (900 mg IV Q8h) or erythromycin(500 mg IV Q6h) are recommended for patients at highrisk for anaphylaxis to penicillins as long as their GBSisolate is documented to be susceptible to bothclindamycin and erythromycin.

IV. Normal spontaneous vaginal delivery

A. Preparation. As the multiparous patient approaches complete dilatation or as the nulliparous patient begins to crownthe fetal scalp, preparations are made for delivery.

B. Maternal position. The mother is usually placed in the dorsal lithotomy position with left lateral tilt.

C. Delivery of a fetus in an occiput anterior position

1. Delivery of the head

a.
The fetal head is delivered by extension as the flexedhead passes through the vaginal introitus.
b.
Once the fetal head has been delivered, external rotation to the occiput transverse position occurs.
c.
The oropharynx and nose of the fetus are suctionedwith the bulb syringe. A finger is passed into the vaginaalong the fetal neck to check for a nuchal cord. If one ispresent, it is lifted over the vertex. If this cannot beaccomplished, the cord is doubly clamped and divided.
d.
If shoulder dystocia is anticipated, the shouldersshould be delivered immediately.

2. Episiotomy consists of incision of the perineum, enlarging the vaginal orifice at the time of delivery. If indicated,an episiotomy should be performed when 3-4 cm of fetalscalp is visible.

a.
With adequate local or spinal anesthetic in place, amedial episiotomy is completed by incising the perineum toward the anus and into the vagina.
b.
Avoid cutting into the anal sphincter or the rectum. Ashort perineum may require a mediolateral episiotomy.
c.
Application of pressure at the perineal apex with atowel-covered hand helps to prevent extension of theepisiotomy.
  1. Delivery of the anterior shoulder is accomplished bygentle downward traction on the fetal head. The posteriorshoulder is delivered by upward traction.

    1. Delivery of the body. The infant is grasped around theback with the left hand, and the right hand is placed, nearthe vagina, under the baby's buttocks, supporting theinfant’s body. The infant’s body is rotated toward the

    2. operator and supported by the operator’s forearm, freeingthe right hand to suction the mouth and nose. The baby'shead should be kept lower than the body to facilitatedrainage of secretions.
  2. Suctioning of the nose and oropharynx is repeated.

  3. The umbilical cord is doubly clamped and cut, leaving 23 cm of cord.

D. Delivery of the placenta

  1. The placenta usually separates spontaneously from theuterine wall within 5 minutes of delivery. Gentle fundalmassage and gentle traction on the cord facilitates delivery of the placenta.

  2. The placenta should be examined for missing cotyledonsor blind vessels. The cut end of the cord should be examined for 2 arteries and a vein. The absence of one umbilical artery suggests a congenital anomaly.

  3. Prophylaxis against excessive postpartum blood lossconsists of external fundal massage and oxytocin (Pitocin), 20 units in 1000 mL of IV fluid at 100 drops/minuteafter delivery of the placenta. Oxytocin can cause markedhypotension if administered as a IV bolus.

  4. After delivery of the placenta, the birth canal is inspectedfor lacerations.

Delivery Note

  1. Note the age, gravida, para, and gestational age.

  2. Time of birth, type of birth (spontaneous vaginal delivery), position(left occiput anterior).

  3. Bulb suctioned, sex, weight, APGAR scores, nuchal cord, andnumber of cord vessels.

  4. Placenta expressed spontaneously intact. Describe episiotomydegree and repair technique.

  5. Note lacerations of cervix, vagina, rectum, perineum.

  6. Estimated blood loss:

  7. Disposition: Mother to recovery room in stable condition. Infant tonursery in stable condition.

Routine Postpartum Orders

Transfer: To recovery room, then postpartum ward when stable. Vitals: Check vitals, bleeding, fundus q15min x 1 hr or until stable, then q4h. Activity: Ambulate in 2 hours if stable Nursing Orders: If unable to void, straight catheterize; sitz baths prn with 1:1000 Betadine prn, ice pack to perineum prn, record urine output. Diet: Regular IV Fluids: D5LR at 125 cc/h. Discontinue when stable and taking PO diet.

Medications:

Oxytocin (Pitocin) 20 units in 1 L D5LR at 100 drops/minute or 10 UIM. FeS04 325 mg PO bid-tid.

Symptomatic Medications:Acetaminophen/codeine (Tylenol #3) 1-2 tab PO q3-4h prn OR Oxycodone/acetaminophen (Percocet) 1 tab q6h prn pain.Milk of magnesia 30 mL PO q6h prn constipation.Docusate Sodium (Colace) 100 mg PO bid.Dulcolax suppository PR prn constipation.A and D cream or Lanolin prn if breast feeding.Breast binder or tight brazier and ice packs prn if not to breast feed.

Labs: Hemoglobin/hematocrit in AM. Give rubella vaccine if titer <1:10.

Active Management of Labor

The active management of labor refers to active control over thecourse of labor. There are three essential elements to active management are careful diagnosis of labor by strict criteria, constant monitoring of labor, and prompt intervention (eg, amniotomy,high dose oxytocin) if progress is unsatisfactory.

I. Criteria for active management of labor:

A. Nulliparous

B. Term pregnancy

C. Singleton infant in cephalic presentation

D. No pregnancy complications

E. Experiencing spontaneous onset of labor.

II. Diagnosis of labor

A. The diagnosis of labor is made only when contractions areaccompanied by any one of the following:

  1. Bloody show

  2. Rupture of the membranes

  3. Full cervical effacement

B. Women who meet these criteria are admitted to the labor unit.

III.Management of labor

A. Rupture of membranes. Intact fetal membranes are artificially ruptured one hour after the diagnosis of labor is madeto permit assessment of the quantity of fluid and the presence of meconium. Rupture of the membranes may accelerate labor.

B. Progress during the first stage of labor

  1. Satisfactory progress in the first stage of labor is confirmed by cervical dilatation of at least 1 cm per hour afterthe membranes have been ruptured.

  2. In the absence of medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) contraindications, labor that fails to progress at the foregoing rate is treated withoxytocin.

  3. Progress during the second stage of labor is measured by fetal descent and rotation.

a.
The second stage of labor is divided into two phases:the first phase is the time from full dilatation until thefetal head reaches the pelvic floor; the second phaseextends from the time the head reaches the pelvicfloor to delivery of the infant.
b.
The first phase of the second stage is characterized bydescent of the fetal head. If the fetal head is high inthe pelvis at full dilatation, the woman often has nourge to push and should not be encouraged to do so.Oxytocin treatment may be useful if the fetal head fails

to descend after a period of observation.

C. Administration of oxytocin. Oxytocin is administered fortreatment of failure of labor to progress, unless its use iscontraindicated. Oxytocin may only be administered if thefollowing conditions are met:

  1. Fetal membranes are ruptured

  2. Absence of meconium in amniotic fluid

  3. Singleton fetus in a vertex position

  4. No evidence of fetal distress

High Dose Oxytocin (Pitocin) Regimen

Begin oxytocin 6 mU per minute IVIncrease dose by 6 mU per minute every 15 minutesMaximum dose: 40 mU per minute

D. Failure to progress (dystocia) is diagnosed when thecervix fails to dilate at least 1 cm per hour during the firststage of labor or when the fetal head fails to descend duringthe second stage of labor. Three possible causes for failureto progress are possible (excluding malpresentations andhydrocephalus):

  1. Inefficient uterine action

  2. Occiput-posterior position

  3. Cephalopelvic disproportion.

E. Inefficient uterine action is the most common cause of dystocia in the nulliparous gravida, especially early in labor.Secondary arrest of labor after previously satisfactory progress may be due to an occiput-posterior position orcephalopelvic disproportion. It is often difficult for the clinician to differentiate among these entities, thus oxytocin isadministered in all cases of failure to progress (unless acontraindication exists).

F. In the first stage, progressive cervical dilatation of at least 1cm per hour should occur within one hour of establishingefficient uterine contractions (five to seven contractionswithin 15 minutes) with oxytocin. The second stage is considered prolonged if it extends longer than two hours inwomen without epidural anesthesia and longer than threehours in women with epidural anesthesia despite adequatecontractions and oxytocin augmentation.

References: See page 155.

Perineal Lacerations and Episiotomies

I. First-degree laceration

A. A first degree perineal laceration extends only through thevaginal and perineal skin.

B. Repair: Place a single layer of interrupted 3-O chromic orVicryl sutures about 1 cm apart.

II. Second-degree laceration and repair of midline episiotomy

A. A second degree laceration extends deeply into the softtissues of the perineum, down to, but not including, theexternal anal sphincter capsule. The disruption involves thebulbocavernosus and transverse perineal muscles.

B. Repair

  1. Proximate the deep tissues of the perineal body by placing 3-4 interrupted 2-O or 3-O chromic or Vicrylabsorbable sutures. Reapproximate the superficial layersof the perineal body with a running suture extending tothe bottom of the episiotomy.

  2. Identify the apex of the vaginal laceration. Suture thevaginal mucosa with running, interlocking, 3-O chromic orVicryl absorbable suture.

  3. Close the perineal skin with a running, subcuticular suture. Tie off the suture and remove the needle.

III.Third-degree laceration

A. This laceration extends through the perineum and throughthe anal sphincter.

B. Repair

  1. Identify each severed end of the external anal sphinctercapsule, and grasp each end with an Allis clamp.

  2. Proximate the capsule of the sphincter with 4 interruptedsutures of 2-O or 3-O Vicryl suture, making sure thesutures do not penetrate the rectal mucosa.

  3. Continue the repair as for a second degree laceration asabove. Stool softeners and sitz baths are prescribed post-partum.

IV.Fourth-degree laceration

A. The laceration extends through the perineum, analsphincter, and extends through the rectal mucosa to exposethe lumen of the rectum.

B. Repair

  1. Irrigate the laceration with sterile saline solution. Identifythe anatomy, including the apex of the rectal mucosallaceration.

  2. Approximate the rectal submucosa with a running sutureusing a 3-O chromic on a GI needle extending to themargin of the anal skin.

  3. Place a second layer of running suture to invert the firstsuture line, and take some tension from the first layerclosure.

  4. Identify and grasp the torn edges of the external analsphincter capsule with Allis clamps, and perform a repairas for a third-degree laceration. Close the remaininglayers as for a second-degree laceration.

  5. A low-residue diet, stool softeners, and sitz baths are

prescribed post-partum.References: See page 155.

Fetal Heart Rate Assessment

Fetal heart rate (FHR) assessment evaluates the fetal condition byidentifying FHR patterns that may be associated with adverse fetalor neonatal outcome or are reassuring of fetal well-being.

I. Fetal monitoring techniques

A. Electronic fetal monitoring. The electronic fetal monitor determines the FHR and continuously records it in graphicalform.

B. External fetal monitoring. The FHR is measured by focusing an ultrasound beam on the fetal heart. The fetal monitorinterprets Doppler signals.

C. Internal fetal monitoring of FHR is an invasive procedure.A spiral electrode is inserted transcerviCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y into the fetalscalp. The internal electrode detects the fetal (ECG) andcalculates the fetal heart rate based upon the interval between R waves. This signal provides accurate measurementof beat-to-beat and baseline variability.

D. Biophysical profile. The biophysical profile (BPP) consistsof electronic fetal heart rate evaluation combined with sonographiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y assessed fetal breathing movements, motormovement, gross fetal tone, and amniotic fluid volume.

II. Fetal heart rate patterns

A. The fetal heart rate pattern recorded by an electronic fetalmonitor is categorized as reassuring or nonreassuring.

B. Reassuring fetal heart rate patterns

  1. A baseline fetal heart rate of 120 to 160 bpm

  2. Absence of FHR decelerations

  3. Age appropriate FHR accelerations

  4. Normal FHR variability (5 to 25 bpm).

C. Early decelerations (ie, shallow symmetrical decelerationsin which the nadir of the deceleration occurs simultaneouslywith the peak of the contraction) and mild bradycardia of 100to 119 bpm are caused by fetal head compression, and theyare not associated with fetal acidosis or poor neonatal outcome.

D. The majority of fetal arrhythmias are benign and spontaneously convert to normal sinus rhythm by 24 hours after birth.Persistent tachyarrhythmias may cause fetal hydrops if present for many hours to days. Persistent bradyarrhythmias areoften associated with fetal heart disease (eg, cardiomyopathyrelated to lupus), but seldom result in hypoxia or acidosis infetal life.

E. FHR accelerations and mild variable decelerations are indicative of a normally functioning autonomic nervous system.

F. Nonreassuring fetal heart rate patterns

  1. Nonreassuring FHR patterns are nonspecific and requirefurther evaluation. The fetus may not be acidotic initially;however, continuation or worsening of the clinical situationmay result in fetal acidosis.

  2. Late decelerations are characterized by a smooth U-shaped fall in the fetal heart rate beginning after the contraction has started and ending after the contraction hasended. The nadir of the deceleration occurs after the peakof the contraction. Mild late decelerations are a reflex central nervous system response to hypoxia, while severelate decelerations suggest direct myocardial depression.

  3. Sinusoidal heart rate is defined as a pattern of regularvariability resembling a sine wave with a fixed periodicityof three to five cycles per minute and an amplitude of 5 to40 bpm. The sinusoidal pattern is caused by moderatefetal hypoxemia, often secondary to fetal anemia.

  4. Variable decelerations are characterized by the variableonset of abrupt slowing of the FHR in association withuterine contractions. Mild or moderate variable decelerations do not have a late component, are of short durationand depth, and end by rapid return to a normal baselineFHR. They are usually intermittent. This pattern is notassociated with acidosis or low Apgar scores. Severevariable decelerations have a late component duringwhich the fetal pH falls. They also may display loss ofvariability or rebound tachycardia and last longer than 60seconds or fall to less than 70 bpm. They tend to becomepersistent and progressively deeper and longer lastingover time.

  5. Fetal distress patterns

a.
Fetal distress is likely to cause fetal or neonatal deathor damage if left uncorrected. Fetal distress patternsare associated with fetal acidemia and hypoxemia.
b.
Undulating baseline. Alternating tachycardia andbradycardia, often with reduced variability between thewide swings in heart rate.
c.
Severe bradycardia. Fetal heart rate below 100 bpm fora prolonged period of time (ie, at least 10 minutes).
d.
Tachycardia with diminished variability that is unrelatedto drugs or additional non-reassuring periodic patterns(eg, late decelerations or severe variable decelerations)

III. Intrapartum fetal surveillance

A. Transient episodes of hypoxemia and hypoxia are generallywell-tolerated by the fetus. Progressive or severe episodesmay lead to fetal acidosis and subsequent asphyxia. Onegoal of intrapartum fetal surveillance is to distinguish thefetus with FHR abnormalities who is well compensated fromone who is at risk for neurological impairment or death.Ancillary tests are useful for this purpose.

B. Ancillary tests

  1. Fetal scalp stimulation. Fetal scalp stimulation is similarto the vibroacoustic stimulation test used antepartum.Absence of acidosis (ie, fetal pH greater than 7.20) isconfirmed by elicitation of a FHR acceleration when anexaminer stimulates the fetal vertex with the examiningfinger. Fetal scalp sampling is recommended to furtherevaluate positive test results.

  2. Fetal scalp blood sampling. Capillary blood collectedfrom the fetal scalp typiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y has a pH lower than arterialblood. A pH of 7.20 was initially thought to represent thecritical value for identifying serious fetal stress and anincrease in the incidence of low Apgar scores. The degreeof technical skill required prohibits widespread use of thismodality.

IV. Management of nonreassuring FHR patterns duringlabor

  1. Determine the cause of the abnormality (eg, cord prolapse, maternal medication, abruption placenta)

    1. Attempt to correct the problem or initiate measures to

    2. improve fetal oxygenation (eg, change maternal position,administer oxygen and intravenous fluids, consideramnioinfusion or tocolysis)
  2. If the nonreassuring pattern does not resolve within a fewminutes, perform ancillary tests to determine the fetalcondition

  3. Determine whether operative intervention is needed

B. The presence of accelerations almost always assures theabsence of fetal acidosis. Therefore, if such accelerations are not observed, they should be elicited by manual orvibroacoustic stimulation. There is a 50 percent risk of fetalacidosis in fetuses in whom accelerations cannot be elicited, so further evaluation by fetal scalp sampling for pH is indicated to help clarify the fetal acid-base status. Serial evaluation every 20 to 30 minutes is necessary if the FHR patternremains nonreassuring. Expeditious delivery is indicated forpersistent nonreassuring FHR patterns.

Management of Variant Fetal Heart Rate Patterns
FHR Pattern Diagnosis Action
Normal rate normal variability, accelerations, no decelerations Fetus is well oxygenated None
Normal variability,accelerations, mild nonreassuring pattern (bradycardia,late decelerations, variable decelerations) Fetus is still well oxygenated centrally Conservative management.
Normal variability, ±accelerations, moderate-severe nonreassuring pattern (bradycardia,late decelerations, variable decelerations) Fetus is still well oxygenated centrally, but the FHRsuggests hypoxia Continue conservative management.Consider stimulation testing. Prepare forrapid delivery if pattern worsens
Decreasing variability,± accelerations, moderate-severe nonreassuring patterns (bradycardia,late decelerations, variable decelerations) Fetus may be onthe verge ofdecompensation Deliver if spontaneous delivery is remote, or if stimulation supports diagnosis of decompensation. Normal response to stimulation may allow timeto await a vaginaldelivery
Absent variability, noaccelerations, moderate/severenonreassuring patterns (bradycardia,late decelerations, variable decelerations) Evidence of actual or impending asphyxia Deliver. Stimulation or in-utero management may be attempted if delivery isnot delayed

References: See page 155.

Antepartum Fetal Surveillance

I. Antepartum fetal surveillance techniques

A. Antepartum fetal surveillance should be initiated in pregnancies in which the risk of fetal demise is known to be increased. These problems can include maternal conditionssuch as antiphospholipid syndrome, chronic hypertension,renal disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, or type 1diabetes mellitus. Monitoring should also be initiated inpregnancy-related conditions such as preeclampsia,intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), multiple gestation,poor obstetrical history, or postterm pregnancy.

B. Antepartum fetal surveillance can include the nonstress test(NST), BPP, oxytocin challenge test (OCT), or modifiedBPP.

C. Nonstress test

  1. A NST is performed using an electronic fetal monitor.Testing is generally begun at 32 to 34 weeks. Testing isperformed at daily to weekly intervals as long as theindication for testing persists.

  2. The test is reactive if there are two or more fetal heart rate accelerations of 15 bpm above the baseline ratelasting for 15 seconds in a 20 minute period. Anonreactive NST does not show such accelerations over a 40 minute period. Nonreactivity may be related to fetalimmaturity, a sleep cycle, drugs, fetal anomalies, or fetalhypoxemia.

  3. If the NST is nonreactive, it is considered nonreassuringand further evaluation or delivery of the fetus is indicated.At term, delivery rather than further evaluation is usuallywarranted. A nonreassuring NST preterm usually shouldbe assessed with ancillary tests, since the false positiverate of an isolated NST may be 50 to 60 percent.

D. Fetal movement assessment (“kick counts”)

  1. A diminution in the maternal perception of fetal movementoften but not invariably precedes fetal death, in somecases by several days.

  2. The woman lies on her side and counts distinct fetal movements. Perception of 10 distinct movements in aperiod of up to 2 hours is considered reassuring. Once 10movements have been perceived, the count may bediscontinued. In the absence of a reassuring count, nonstress testing is recommended.

Indications for Antepartum Fetal Surveillance
Maternal antiphospholipid syndromepoorly controlled hyperthyroidismhemoglobinopathiescyanotic heart diseasesystemic lupus erythematosuschronic renal disease type I diabetes mellitushypertensive disorders Pregnancy complicationspreeclampsiadecreased fetal movement oligohydramniospolyhydramniosIntrauterine growth restriction postterm pregnancyisoimmunization previous unexplained fetal demisemultiple gestation

E. Ancillary tests

  1. Vibroacoustic stimulation is performed by placing anartificial larynx on the maternal abdomen and deliveringa short burst of sound to the fetus. The procedure canshorten the duration of time needed to produce reactivityand the frequency of nonreactive NSTs, without compromising the predictive value of a reactive NST.

  2. Oxytocin challenge test

a.
The oxytocin challenge test (OCT) is done by intravenously infusing dilute oxytocin until three contractionsoccur within ten minutes. The test is interpreted asfollows:
b.
A positive test is defined by the presence of late decelerations following 50 percent or more of the contractions
c.
A negative test has no late or significant variabledecelerations
d.
An equivocal-suspicious pattern consists of intermittent late or significant variable decelerations, while anequivocal-hyperstimulatory pattern refers to fetal heartrate decelerations occurring with contractions morefrequent than every two minutes or lasting longer than90 seconds
e.
An unsatisfactory test is one in which the tracing isuninterpretable or contractions are fewer than three in10 minutes
f.
A positive test indicates decreased fetal reserve andcorrelates with a 20 to 40 percent incidence of abnormal FHR patterns during labor. An equivocal-suspicious test with repetitive variable decelerations is alsoassociated with abnormal FHR patterns in labor,which are often related to cord compression due tooligohydramnios.

3. Fetal biophysical profile

a. The fetal biophysical profile score refers to thesonographic assessment of four biophysical variables:fetal movement, fetal tone, fetal breathing, amnioticfluid volume and nonstress testing. Each of these fiveparameters is given a score of 0 or 2 points, depending upon whether specific criteria are met. Fetal BPSis a noninvasive, highly accurate means for predictingthe presence of fetal asphyxia.

b. Criteria

(1)
A normal variable is assigned a score of two andan abnormal variable a score of zero. The maximal score is 10/10 and the minimal score is 0/10.
(2)
Amniotic fluid volume is based upon anultrasound-based objective measurement of thelargest visible pocket. The selected largest pocketmust have a transverse diameter of at least one centimeter.
Components of the Biophysical Profile
Parameter Normal (score = 2) Abnormal (score = 0)
Nonstress test >2 accelerations >15 beats per minute above baselineduring test lasting >15 seconds in 20 minutes <2 accelerations
Amniotic fluid volume Amniotic fluid index >5 or at least 1 pocket measuring 2cm x 2 cm in perpendicularplanes AFI <5 or no pocket >2 cm x 2 cm
Fetal breathing movementSustained FBM (>30 seconds) Absence of FBM or short gaspsonly <30 secondstotal
Fetal bodymovements >3 episodes of either limb ortrunk movement <3 episodes during test
Fetal tone Extremities in flexion at rest and >1 episode of extensionof extremity, hand or spinewith return to flexion Extension at rest or no return to flexion after movement
A total score of 8 to 10 is reassuring; a score of 6 is suspicious, and ascore of 4 or less is ominous. Amniotic fluid index = the sum of the largest vertical pocket in each offour quadrants on the maternal abdomen intersecting at the umbilicus.

c. Clinical utility

(1)
The fetal BPS is noninvasive and highly accuratefor predicting the presence of fetal asphyxia. Theprobability of fetal acidemia is virtually zero whenthe score is normal (8 to 10). The false negativerate (ie, fetal death within one week of a last testwith a normal score) is exceedingly low. The likelihood of fetal compromise and death rises as thescore falls.
(2)
The risk of fetal demise within one week of a normal test result is 0.8 per 1000 women tested. Thepositive predictive value of the BPS for evidence

of true fetal compromise is only 50 percent, with anegative predictive value greater than 99.9 percent.

d. Indications and frequency of testing

(1) ACOG recommends antepartum testing in thefollowing situations:

(a)
Women with high-risk factors for fetal asphyxiashould undergo antepartum fetal surveillancewith tests (eg, BPS, nonstress test)
(b)
Testing may be initiated as early as 26 weeksof gestation when clinical conditions suggestearly fetal compromise is likely. Initiating testing at 32 to 34 weeks of gestation is appropriate for most pregnancies at increased risk ofstillbirth.
(c)
A reassuring test (eg, BPS of 8 to 10) shouldbe repeated periodiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y (weekly or twiceweekly) until delivery when the high-risk condition persists.
(d)
Any significant deterioration in the clinical status (eg, worsening preeclampsia, decreasedfetal activity) requires fetal reevaluation.
(e)
Severe oligohydramnios (no vertical pocket >2cm or amniotic fluid index <5) requires eitherdelivery or close maternal and fetal surveillance.
(f)
Induction of labor may be attempted with abnormal antepartum testing as long as the fetalheart rate and contractions are monitored continuously and are reassuring. Cesarean delivery is indicated if there are repetitive late decelerations.
(2)
The minimum gestational age for testing shouldreflect the lower limit that intervention with deliverywould be considered. This age is now 24 to 25weeks.
(3)
Modified biophysical profile. Assessment of amniotic fluid volume and nonstress testing appear to be as reliable a predictor of long-term fetalwell-being as the full BPS. The rate of stillbirthwithin one week of a normal modified BPS is the same as with the full BPS, 0.8 per 1000 womentested.
F.
Perinatal outcome. An abnormal NST result should be interpreted with caution. Further assessment of fetal condition using the NST, OCT, or BPP should usually be performed to help determine whether the fetus is in immediatejeopardy.
Guidelines for Antepartum Testing
Indication Initiation Frequency
Post-term pregnancy 41 weeks Twice a week
Preterm rupture ofmembranes At onset Daily
Bleeding 26 weeks or at onset Twice a week
Oligohydramnios 26 weeks or at onset Twice a week
Polyhydramnios 32 weeks Weekly
Diabetes 32 weeks Twice a week
Chronic or pregnancy-induced hypertension 28 weeks Weekly. Increase totwice-weekly at 32weeks.
Steroid-dependent orpoorly controlledasthma 28 weeks Weekly
Sickle cell disease 32 weeks (earlierif symptoms) Weekly (more oftenif severe)
Impaired renal function 28 weeks Weekly
Substance abuse 32 weeks Weekly
Prior stillbirth At 2 weeks before prior fetal death Weekly
Multiple gestation 32 weeks Weekly
Congenital anomaly 32 weeks Weekly
Fetal growth restriction 26 weeks Twice a week or at onset
Decreased fetal movement At time of complaint Once

G. Management of abnormal test results

  1. Maternal reports of decreased fetal movement should beevaluated by an NST, CST, BPP, or modified BPP.These results, if normal, usually are sufficient to excludeimminent fetal jeopardy. A nonreactive NST or an abnormal modified BPP generally should be followed by additional testing (either a CST or a full BPP). In many circumstances, a positive CST result generally indicatesthat delivery is warranted.

    1. A BPP score of 6 is considered equivocal; in the termfetus, this score generally should prompt delivery,whereas in the preterm fetus, it should result in a repeat

    2. BPP in 24 hours. In the interim, maternal corticosteroid administration should be considered for pregnancies ofless than 34 weeks of gestation. Repeat equivocalscores should result either in delivery or continued intensive surveillance. A BPP score of 4 usually indicates thatdelivery is warranted.
  2. Preterm delivery is indicated for nonreassuringantepartum fetal testing results that have been confirmedby additional testing. At term, additional testing can beomitted since the risk from delivery is small. Dependingon the fetal heart rate pattern, induction of labor withcontinuous FHR and contraction monitoring may beattempted in the absence of obstetrical contraindications.Repetitive late decelerations or severe variable decelerations usually require cesarean delivery.

References: See page 155.

Brief Postoperative Cesarean SectionNote

Pre-op diagnosis:

  1. 23 year old G1P0, estimated gestational age = 40 weeks

  2. Dystocia

  3. Non-reassuring fetal tracingPost-op diagnosis: Same as above Procedure: Primary low segment transverse cesarean sectionAttending Surgeon, Assistant:Anesthesia: EpiduralOperative Findings: Weight and sex of infant, APGARs at 1 min

and 5 min; normal uterus, tubes, ovaries. Cord pH:Specimens: Placenta, cord blood (type and Rh).Estimated Blood Loss: 800 cc; no blood replaced.Fluids, blood and urine output:Drains: Foley to gravity.Complications: None Disposition: Patient sent to recovery room in stable condition.

Cesarean Section Operative Report

Preoperative Diagnosis:

  1. 23 year old G1P0, estimated gestational age = 40 weeks

  2. Dystocia

3. Non-reassuring fetal tracingPostoperative Diagnosis: Same as above Title of Operation: Primary low segment transverse cesarean section Surgeon:Assistant: Anesthesia: EpiduralFindings At Surgery: Male infant in occiput posterior presentation. Thin meconium with none below the cords, pediatrics presentat delivery, APGAR's 6/8, weight 3980 g. Normal uterus, tubes,and ovaries. Description of Operative Procedure:

After assuring informed consent, the patient was taken to theoperating room and spinal anesthesia was initiated. The patientwas placed in the dorsal, supine position with left lateral tilt. Theabdomen was prepped and draped in sterile fashion.

A Pfannenstiel skin incision was made with a scalpel andcarried through to the level of the fascia. The fascial incision wasextended bilaterally with Mayo scissors. The fascial incision wasthen grasped with the Kocher clamps, elevated, and sharply andbluntly dissected superiorly and inferiorly from the rectus muscles.

The rectus muscles were then separated in the midline, and theperitoneum was tented up, and entered sharply with Metzenbaumscissors. The peritoneal incision was extended superiorly andinferiorly with good visualization of the bladder.

A bladder blade was then inserted, and the vesicouterine peritoneum was identified, grasped with the pick-ups, and enteredsharply with the Metzenbaum scissors. This incision was thenextended laterally, and a bladder flap was created. The bladderwas retracted using the bladder blade. The lower uterine segmentwas incised in a transverse fashion with the scalpel, then extendedbilaterally with bandage scissors. The bladder blade was removed,and the infants head was delivered atraumatiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y. The nose andmouth were suctioned and the cord clamped and cut. The infantwas handed off to the pediatrician. Cord gases and cord blood were sent.

The placenta was then removed manually, and the uterus wasexteriorized, and cleared of all clots and debris. The uterine incision was repaired with 1-O chromic in a running locking fashion. Asecond layer of 1-O chromic was used to obtain excellenthemostasis. The bladder flap was repaired with a 3-O Vicryl in arunning fashion. The cul-de-sac was cleared of clots and theuterus was returned to the abdomen. The peritoneum was closedwith 3-0 Vicryl. The fascia was reapproximated with O Vicryl in arunning fashion. The skin was closed with staples.

The patient tolerated the procedure well. Needle and spongecounts were correct times two. Two grams of Ancef was given atcord clamp, and a sterile dressing was placed over the incision.Estimated Blood Loss (EBL): 800 cc; no blood replaced (normalblood loss is 500-1000 cc).Specimens: Placenta, cord pH, cord blood specimens.Drains: Foley to gravity. Fluids: Input - 2000 cc LR; Output - 300 cc clear urine.Complications: None. Disposition: The patient was taken to the recovery room thenpostpartum ward in stable condition.

Postoperative Management after Cesarean Section

I. Post Cesarean Section Orders

A. Transfer: to post partum ward when stable.

B. Vital signs: q4h x 24 hours, I and O.

C. Activity: Bed rest x 6-8 hours, then ambulate; if given spinal,keep patient flat on back x 8h. Incentive spirometer q1hwhile awake.

D. Diet: NPO x 8h, then sips of water. Advance to clear liquids,then to regular diet as tolerated.

E. IV Fluids: IV D5 LR or D5 ½ NS at 125 cc/h. Foley to gravity; discontinue after 12 hours. I and O catheterize prn.

F. Medications

  1. Cefazolin (Ancef) 1 gm IVPB x one dose at time of cesarean section.

  2. Nalbuphine (Nubain) 5 to 10 mg SC or IV q2-3h OR

  3. Meperidine (Demerol) 50-75 mg IM q3-4h prn pain.

  4. Hydroxyzine (Vistaril) 25-50 mg IM q3-4h prn nausea.

  5. Prochlorperazine (Compazine) 10 mg IV q4-6h prn nausea OR

  6. Promethazine (Phenergan) 25-50 mg IV q3-4h prn nausea

G. Labs: CBC in AM.

II. Postoperative Day #1

A. Assess pain, lungs, cardiac status, fundal height, lochia,passing of flatus, bowel movement, distension, tenderness,bowel sounds, incision.

B. Discontinue IV when taking adequate PO fluids.

C. Discontinue Foley, and I and O catheterize prn.

D. Ambulate tid with assistance; incentive spirometer q1h whileawake.

E. Check hematocrit, hemoglobin, Rh, and rubella status.

F. Medications

  1. Acetaminophen/codeine (Tylenol #3) 1-2 PO q4-6h prnpain OR

  2. Oxycodone/acetaminophen (Percocet) 1 tab q6h prn pain.

  3. FeSO4 325 mg PO bid-tid.

  4. Multivitamin PO qd, Colace 100 mg PO bid. Mylicon 80mg PO qid prn bloating.

III. Postoperative Day #2

A. If passing gas and/or bowel movement, advance to regulardiet.

B. Laxatives: Dulcolax supp prn or Milk of magnesia 30 cc POtid prn. Mylicon 80 mg PO qid prn bloating.

IV. Postoperative Day #3

A. If transverse incision, remove staples and place steri-stripson day 3. If a vertical incision, remove staples on post op day

5.

B. Discharge home on appropriate medications; follow up in 2and 6 weeks.

Prevention of D Isoimmunization

The morbidity and mortality of Rh hemolytic disease can be significantly reduced by identification of women at risk forisoimmunization and by administration of D immunoglobulin.Administration of D immunoglobulin [RhoGAM, Rho(D) immunoglobulin, RhIg] is very effective in the preventing isoimmunizationto the D antigen.

I. Prenatal testing

A. Routine prenatal laboratory evaluation includes ABO and Dblood type determination and antibody screen.

B. At 28-29 weeks of gestation woman who are D negative butnot D isoimmunized should be retested for D antibody. If thetest reveals that no D antibody is present, prophylactic Dimmunoglobulin [RhoGAM, Rho(D) immunoglobulin, RhIg] isindicated.

C. If D antibody is present, D immunoglobulin will not be beneficial, and specialized management of the D isoimmunizedpregnancy is undertaken to manage hemolytic disease ofthe fetus and hydrops fetalis.

II. Routine administration of D immunoglobulin

A. Abortion. D sensitization may be caused by abortion. Dsensitization occurs more frequently after induced abortionthan after spontaneous abortion, and it occurs more frequently after late abortion than after early abortion. D sensitization occurs following induced abortion in 4-5% of susceptible women. All unsensitized, D-negative women who havean induced or spontaneous abortion should be treated withD immunoglobulin unless the father is known to be D negative.

B. Dosage of D immunoglobulin is determined by the stage ofgestation. If the abortion occurs before 13 weeks of gestation, 50 mcg of D immunoglobulin prevents sensitization. Forabortions occurring at 13 weeks of gestation and later, 300mcg is given.

C. Ectopic pregnancy can cause D sensitization. All unsensitized, D-negative women who have an ectopic pregnancy should be given D immunoglobulin. The dosage isdetermined by the gestational age, as described above forabortion.

D. Amniocentesis

  1. D isoimmunization can occur after amniocentesis. D immunoglobulin, 300 mcg, should be administered tounsensitized, D-negative, susceptible patients followingfirst- and second-trimester amniocentesis.

  2. Following third-trimester amniocentesis, 300 mcg of Dimmunoglobulin should be administered. If amniocentesisis performed and delivery is planned within 48 hours, Dimmunoglobulin can be withheld until after delivery, whenthe newborn can be tested for D positivity. If the amniocentesis is expected to precede delivery by more than 48hours, the patient should receive 300 mcg of D immunoglobulin at the time of amniocentesis.

E. Antepartum prophylaxis

  1. Isoimmunized occurs in 1-2% of D-negative women during the antepartum period. D immunoglobulin, administered both during pregnancy and postpartum, can reducethe incidence of D isoimmunization to 0.3%.

  2. Antepartum prophylaxis is given at 28-29 weeks of gestation. Antibody-negative, Rh-negative gravidas shouldhave a repeat assessment at 28 weeks. D immunoglobulin (RhoGAM, RhIg), 300 mcg, is given to D-negativewomen. However, if the father of the fetus is known with certainty to be D negative, antepartum prophylaxis is not necessary.

F. Postpartum D immunoglobulin

  1. D immunoglobulin is given to the D negative mother assoon after delivery as cord blood findings indicate that thebaby is Rh positive.

  2. A woman at risk who is inadvertently not given D immunoglobulin within 72 hours after delivery should still receiveprophylaxis at any time up until two weeks after delivery.If prophylaxis is delayed, it may not be effective.

  3. A quantitative Kleihauer-Betke analysis should be performed in situations in which significant maternal bleedingmay have occurred (eg, after maternal abdominal trauma,abruptio placentae, external cephalic version). If thequantitative determination is thought to be more than 30mL, D immune globulin should be given to the mother inmultiples of one vial (300 mcg) for each 30 mL of estimated fetal whole blood in her circulation, unless the father of the baby is known to be D negative.

G. Abruptio placentae, placenta previa, cesarean delivery,intrauterine manipulation, or manual removal of theplacenta may cause more than 30 mL of fetal-to-maternalbleeding. In these conditions, testing for excessive bleeding(Kleihauer-Betke test) or inadequate D immunoglobulindosage (indirect Coombs test) is necessary.

References: See page 155.

Complications of Pregnancy

Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy andHyperemesis Gravidarum

Nausea and vomiting to affects about 70% to 85% of pregnantwomen. Symptoms of nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (NVP) aremost common during the first trimester; however, some women havepersistent nausea for their entire pregnancy. Hyperemesis oftenoccurs in association with high levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), such as with multiple pregnancies, trophoblastic disease,and fetal anomalies such as triploidy.

Conditions that Predispose to Excessive Nausea andVomiting
Viral gastroenteritisGestational trophoblastic diseaseHepatitisUrinary tract infectionMultifetal gestationGallbladder disease Migraine

I. Treatment of nausea and vomiting of pregnancy

A. Patients should avoid odors or foods that seem to be aggravating the nausea. Useful dietary modifications includeavoiding fatty or spicy foods, and stopping iron supplements.Frequent small meals also may improve symptoms. Recommendations include bland and dry foods, high-protein snacks,and crackers at the bedside to be taken first thing in themorning.

B. Cholecystitis, peptic ulcer disease, or hepatitis can causenausea and vomiting and should be excluded. Gastroenteritis,appendicitis, pyelonephritis, and pancreatitis also should beexcluded. Obstetric explanations for nausea and vomiting mayinclude multiple pregnancies or a hydatidiform mole.

C. Non-pharmacologic remedies are adequate for up to 90% ofpatients with NVP. However, about 10% will require medication and about 1% have severe enough vomiting that theyrequire hospitalization.

D. Vitamin therapy. Pyridoxine is effective as first-line therapyand is recommended up to 25 mg three times daily. Pyridoxineserum levels do not appear to correlate with the prevalence ordegree of nausea and vomiting. Multivitamins also areeffective for prevention of NVP. Premesis Rx is a prescriptiontablet with controlled-release vitamin B6, 75 mg, so it can begiven once a day. It also contains vitamin B12 (12 mcg), folicacid (1 mg), and calcium carbonate (200 mg).

E. Over-the-Counter Therapy. If pyridoxine alone is not efficacious, an alternative is to combine over-the-counter doxylamine 25 mg (Unisom) and pyridoxine 25 mg. One couldcombine the 25 mg of pyridoxine three times daily withdoxylamine 25 mg, 1 tablet every bedtime, and ½ tabletmorning and afternoon. There is no evidence that doxylamineis a teratogen.

Drug Therapy for Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy
Generic name (tradename) Dosage
Antihistamines
Doxylamine (Unisom) 25 mg ½ tab BID, 1 tab qhs
Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) 25 to 100 mg po/im/iv every 4 to6 hr
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 25 to 50 mg po/im/iv every 4 to 6hr
Trimethobenzamide (Tigan) 250 mg po every 6 to 8 hr or200 mg im/pr every 6 to 8 hr
Meclizine (Antivert) 12.5 to 25 mg BID/TID
Phenothiazines
Promethazine (Phenergan) 12.5 to 25 mg po/iv/pr every 4 to6 hr
Prochlorperazine (Compazine) 5 to 10 mg po/iv every 6 to 8 hr or25 mg pr every 6 to 8 hr
Prokinetic agents
Metoclopramide (Reglan) 10 to 20 mg po/iv every 6 hr
Serotonin (5-HT3) antagonists
Ondansetron (Zofran) 8 mg po/iv every 8 hr
Corticosteroids
Methylprednisolone (Medrol) 16 mg po TID for 3 days then ½dose every 3 days for 2 wks

F. Pharmacologic Therapy

  1. Prescribed medication is the next step if dietary modifications and vitamin B6 therapy with doxylamine are ineffective. The phenothiazines are safe and effective, and promethazine (Phenergan) often is tried first. One of thedisadvantages of the phenothiazines is their potential fordystonic effects.

  2. Metoclopramide (Reglan) is the antiemetic drug ofchoice in pregnancy in several European countries. Therewas no increased risk of birth defects.

  3. Ondansetron (Zofran) has been compared withpromethazine (Phenergan), and the two drugs are equallyeffective, but ondansetron is much more expensive. Nodata have been published on first trimester teratogenicrisk with ondansetron.

II. Hyperemesis gravidarum

A. Hyperemesis gravidarum occurs in the extreme 0.5% to 1%of patients who have intractable vomiting. Patients withhyperemesis have abnormal electrolytes, dehydration withhigh urine-specific gravity, ketosis and acetonuria, and untreated have weight loss >5% of body weight. Intravenoushydration is the first line of therapy for patients with severenausea and vomiting. Administration of vitamin B1 supplements may be necessary to prevent Wernicke's encephalopathy.

References: See page 155.

Spontaneous Abortion

Abortion is defined as termination of pregnancy resulting in expulsion of an immature, nonviable fetus. A fetus of <20 weeks gestation or a fetus weighing <500 gm is considered an abortus. Spontaneous abortion occurs in 15% of all pregnancies.

I. Threatened abortion is defined as vaginal bleeding occurringin the first 20 weeks of pregnancy, without the passage of tissueor rupture of membranes.

A. Symptoms of pregnancy (nausea, vomiting, fatigue, breasttenderness, urinary frequency) are usually present.

B. Speculum exam reveals blood coming from the cervical oswithout amniotic fluid or tissue in the endocervical canal.

C. The internal cervical os is closed, and the uterus is soft and enlarged appropriate for gestational age.

D. Differential diagnosis

1. Benign and malignant lesions. The cervix often bleeds from an ectropion of friable tissue. Hemostasis can beaccomplished by applying pressure for several minuteswith a large swab or by cautery with a silver nitrate stick.Atypical cervical lesions are evaluated with colposcopyand biopsy.

2. Disorders of pregnancy

a.
Hydatidiform mole may present with early pregnancybleeding, passage of grape-like vesicles, and a uterusthat is enlarged in excess of that expected from dates.An absence of heart tones by Doppler after 12 weeksis characteristic. Hyperemesis, preeclampsia, orhyperthyroidism may be present. Ultrasonography confirms the diagnosis.
b.
Ectopic pregnancy should be excluded when first trimester bleeding is associated with pelvic pain.Orthostatic light-headedness, syncope or shoulder pain(from diaphragmatic irritation) may occur.
(1)
Abdominal tenderness is noted, and pelvic examination reveals cervical motion tenderness.
(2)
Serum beta-HCG is positive.

E. Laboratory tests

  1. Complete blood count. The CBC will not reflect acute blood loss.

  2. Quantitative serum beta-HCG level may be positive innonviable gestations since beta-HCG may persist in theserum for several weeks after fetal death.

  3. Ultrasonography should detect fetal heart motion by 7weeks gestation or older. Failure to detect fetal heartmotion after 9 weeks gestation should prompt consideration of curettage.

F. Treatment of threatened abortion

  1. Bed rest with sedation and abstinence from intercourse.

  2. The patient should report increased bleeding (>normalmenses), cramping, passage of tissue, or fever. Passedtissue should be saved for examination.

II. Inevitable abortion is defined as a threatened abortion with a dilated cervical os. Menstrual-like cramps usually occur.

A. Differential diagnosis

  1. Incomplete abortion is diagnosed when tissue haspassed. Tissue may be visible in the vagina orendocervical canal.

  2. Threatened abortion is diagnosed when the internal osis closed and will not admit a fingertip.

  3. Incompetent cervix is characterized by dilatation of thecervix without cramps.

B. Treatment of inevitable abortion

  1. Surgical evacuation of the uterus is necessary.

  2. D immunoglobulin (RhoGAM) is administered to Rh-negative, unsensitized patients to prevent isoimmunization.Before 13 weeks gestation, the dosage is 50 mcg IM; at13 weeks gestation, the dosage is 300 mcg IM.

III. Incomplete abortion is characterized by cramping, bleeding,passage of tissue, and a dilated internal os with tissue presentin the vagina or endocervical canal. Profuse bleeding,orthostatic dizziness, syncope, and postural pulse and bloodpressure changes may occur.

A. Laboratory evaluation

  1. Complete blood count. CBC will not reflect acute blood loss.

  2. Rh typing

3. Blood typing and cress-matching.

4. Karyotyping of products of conception is completed ifloss is recurrent.

B. Treatment

  1. Stabilization. If the patient has signs and symptoms ofheavy bleeding, at least 2 large-bore IV catheters (<16gauge) are placed. Lactate Ringer’s or normal saline with40 U oxytocin/L is given IV at 200 mL/hour or greater.

  2. Products of conception are removed from theendocervical canal and uterus with a ring forceps. Immediate removal decreases bleeding. Curettage is performed after vital signs have stabilized.

3. Suction dilation and curettage

a.
Analgesia consists of meperidine (Demerol), 35-50 mgIV over 3-5 minutes until the patient is drowsy.
b.
The patient is placed in the dorsal lithotomy position instirrups, prepared, draped, and sedated.
c.
A weighted speculum is placed intravaginally, thevagina and cervix are cleansed, and a paracervicalblock is placed.
d.
Bimanual examination confirms uterine position andsize, and uterine sounding confirms the direction of theendocervical canal.
e.
Mechanical dilatation is completed with dilators if necessary. Curettage is performed with an 8 mm suctioncurette, with a single-tooth tenaculum on the anteriorlip of the cervix.
  1. Post-curettage. After curettage, a blood count is ordered. If the vital signs are stable for several hours, thepatient is discharged with instructions to avoid coitus,douching, or the use of tampons for 2 weeks. Ferroussulfate and ibuprofen are prescribed for pain.

  2. Rh-negative, unsensitized patients are given IMRhoGAM.

  3. Methylergonovine (Methergine), 0.2 mg PO q4h for 6doses, is given if there is continued moderate bleeding.

IV.Complete abortion

A. A complete abortion is diagnosed when complete passageof products of conception has occurred. The uterus is wellcontracted, and the cervical os may be closed.

B. Differential diagnosis

1. Incomplete abortio

2. Ectopic pregnancy. Products of conception should beexamined grossly and submitted for pathologic examination. If no fetal tissue or villi are observed grossly, ectopicpregnancy must be excluded by ultrasound.

C. Management of complete abortion

  1. Between 8 and 14 weeks, curettage is necessary because of the high probability that the abortion was incomplete.

  2. D immunoglobulin (RhoGAM) is administered to Rh-negative, unsensitized patients.

  3. Beta-HCG levels are obtained weekly until zero. Incomplete abortion is suspected if beta-HCG levels plateau orfail to reach zero within 4 weeks.

V. Missed abortion is diagnosed when products of conceptionare retained after the fetus has expired. If products are retained, a severe coagulopathy with bleeding often occurs.

A. Missed abortion should be suspected when the pregnantuterus fails to grow as expected or when fetal heart tonesdisappear.

B. Amenorrhea may persist, or intermittent vaginal bleeding,spotting, or brown discharge may be noted.

C. Ultrasonography confirms the diagnosis.

D. Management of missed abortion

  1. CBC with platelet count, fibrinogen level, partialthromboplastin time, and ABO blood typing and antibodyscreen are obtained.

  2. Evacuation of the uterus is completed after fetal deathhas been confirmed. Dilation and evacuation by suctioncurettage is appropriate when the uterus is less than 1214 weeks gestational size.

3. D immunoglobulin (RhoGAM) is administered to Rh-

negative, unsensitized patients.References: See page 155.

Urinary Tract Infections in Pregnancy

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is common in pregnancy. Althoughasymptomatic bacteriuria occurs with similar frequency in pregnantand nonpregnant women, bacteriuria progresses to symptomaticinfection more frequently during pregnancy.

I. Incidence

A. The prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnant andnonpregnant women is 5 to 9 percent. If asymptomaticbacteriuria is not treated, pyelonephritis will develop in 20 to40 percent of pregnant patients. This rate of progression tosymptomatic disease is three- to fourfold higher than in nonpregnant women.

B. Microbiology. Escherichia coli is responsible for 60 to 90percent of cases of asymptomatic bacteriuria, cystitis, andpyelonephritis.

C. Asymptomatic Bacteriuria refers to the isolation of >100,000 CFU of a single organism/mL from a midstream-voided specimen in a woman without UTI symptoms. Itoccurs in 5 to 9 percent of pregnancies, usually developingin the first month of gestation.

II. Diagnosis

A. A single clean-catch midstream urine culture detects 80percent of patients with asymptomatic bacteriuria; two suchcultures approach the sensitivity of catheterization (96percent). A positive urine culture is >105 CFU/mL. Isolationof more than one species or the presence of lactobacillus orpropiobacterium indicates a contaminated specimen.

B. Screening for asymptomatic bacteriuria is standard practiceat the first prenatal visit.

III. Treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria

A. Amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin) 500 mg PO BID forthree days.

B. Nitrofurantoin (Macrodantin) 50 mg PO QID for seven days.

C. Cefixime (Suprax) 250 mg PO QD for three days.

D. Fosfomycin (Monural) 3 g PO as a single dose.

E. Relapse typiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y occurs in the first two weeks after treatment. Such infections should be treated with two weeks of oral antibiotics.

F. Suppressive therapy is recommended for women with persistent bacteriuria (ie, >2 positive urine cultures). Nitrofurantoin (Macrodantin) 50 to 100 mg orally at bedtime, for theduration of the pregnancy is one option, or cephalexin(Keflex) 250 to 500 mg orally at bedtime. A culture for testof cure is obtained one week after completion of therapyand then repeated monthly until completion of the pregnancy.

IV.
Cystitis occurs in 0.3 to 1.3 percent of pregnant women.Bacteria are confined to the lower urinary tract in these patients.
A.
Acute cystitis should be considered in any gravida withfrequency, urgency, dysuria, hematuria, or suprapubic painin the absence of fever and flank pain. Urine culture with aCFU count >102/mL should be considered positive on amidstream urine specimen with pyuria.

B. Empiric treatment regimens:

  1. Nitrofurantoin (Macrodantin) 100 mg BID

  2. Cephalexin (Keflex) 500 mg BID to QID

C. Each of these drugs is given for three to seven days.

D. Other regimens which have a broader spectrum of activityinclude amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin) 500 mg BID or250 mg TID, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim) 1DS BID but not in the third trimester of pregnancy,cefpodoxime proxetil (Vantin) 100 mg BID, and cefixime(Suprax) 400 mg QD. All of these drugs can be used forthree to seven days. Fluoroquinolones should be avoidedin pregnancy.

E. Monthly urine cultures should be performed beginning oneto two weeks after completion of treatment.

V. Pyelonephritis complicates 1 to 2 percent of all pregnancies.Risk factors include asymptomatic bacteriuria, previouspyelonephritis, renal and collecting system anomalies, andrenal calculi.

A. Presentation consists of fever, chills, and costovertebral angle tenderness. Other symptoms include dysuria, nausea,vomiting, and respiratory distress.

B. Urinalysis reveals one or two bacteria per high-power fieldin an unspun catheterized specimen or 20 bacteria per HPFin a spun specimen; white cell casts confirm the diagnosis.Urine culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing shouldbe performed.

C. Blood cultures are positive in 10 to 20 percent of patients.

D. Outpatient treatment, with one of the above regimens, maybe considered in the absence of underlying medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) conditions, anatomic abnormalities, pregnancy complications, orsigns of sepsis.

E. Inpatient treatment

  1. Fluoroquinolones should not be used because of adverseeffects on growing cartilage. Parenteral beta lactams orgentamicin are the preferred antibiotics. Symptoms thatpersist for more than 48 hours, despite intravenous antibiotic therapy, require further evaluation with a renal ultrasound to assess for perinephric abscess or renal calculi.

  2. Intravenous treatment should continue until the patient isafebrile for 48 hours. Inpatient therapy is followed by oralantibiotics to complete 10 to 14 days of treatment.

  3. Low-dose antimicrobial prophylaxis, such as nitrofurantoin (Macrodantin) 50 to 100 mg PO QHS orcephalexin (Keflex) 250 to 500 mg PO QHS, and periodicurinary surveillance for infection are recommended for theremainder of the pregnancy.

Parenteral Regimens for Empiric Treatment of AcutePyelonephritis in Pregnancy
Antibiotic, dose Interval
Ceftriaxone, 1 g Q24 hours
Gentamicin, 1 mg/kg (+ampicillin) Q8 hours
Ampicillin, 1-2 g (plusgentamicin)* Q6 hours
Ticarcillin-clavulanate (Timentin) 3.2 g Q8 hours
Antibiotic, dose Interval
Piperacillin-tazobactam3.375 g* Q8-12 hours
Imipenem-cilastatin, 250-500 mg Q6-8 hours
* Recommended regimen if enterococcus suspected

References: See page 155.

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Poorly controlled gestational diabetes is associated with an increase in the incidence of preeclampsia, polyhydramnios, fetalmacrosomia, birth trauma, operative delivery, and neonatalhypoglycemia. There is an increased incidence ofhyperbilirubinemia, hypocalcemia, and erythremia. Later development of diabetes mellitus in the mother is also more frequent. Theprevalence of gestational diabetes is higher in black, Hispanic,Native American, and Asian women than white women. The prevalence of gestational diabetes is 1.4 to 14 percent.

Risk Factors for Gestational Diabetes
• A family history of diabetes, especially in first degree relatives • Prepregnancy weight of 110 percent of ideal body weight (pregravidweight more than 90 kg) or more or weight gain in early adulthood. • Age greater than 25 years • A previous large baby (greater than 9 pounds [4.1 kg]) • History of abnormal glucose tolerance • Hispanic, African, Native American, South or East Asian, and PacificIsland ancestry • A previous unexplained perinatal loss or birth of a malformed child • The mother was large at birth (greater than 9 pounds [4.1 kg]) • Polycystic ovary syndrome

I. Screening and diagnostic criteria

A. Screening for gestational diabetes should be performed at24 to 28 weeks of gestation. However, it can be done asearly as the first prenatal visit if there is a high degree ofsuspicion that the pregnant woman has undiagnosed type 2diabetes (eg, obesity, previous gestational diabetes or fetalmacrosomia, age >25 years, family history of diabetes).

B. 50-g oral glucose challenge is given for screening andglucose is measured one hour later; a value >140 mg/dL

(7.8 mmol/L) is considered abnormal. Women with an abnormal value are then given a 100-g, three-hour oral glucose tolerance test (GTT).

Criteria for Gestational Diabetes with Three Hour Oral Glucose Tolerance Test
Fasting >95 mg/dL
1 hour >180 mg/dL
2 hour >155 mg/dL
3 hour >140 mg/dL
Any two or more abnormal results are diagnostic of gestationaldiabetes.
II.
Treatment of gestational diabetes mellitus
A.
Diet
  1. Moderate caloric restriction may be useful in treatingobese women (body mass index greater than 30 km/m2)with gestational diabetes. However, ketosis should beavoided.

  2. Caloric allotment. The recommended caloric intake is 30 kcal per present weight in kg per day in pregnantwomen who are 80 to 120 percent of ideal body weight atthe start of pregnancy. 24 kcal per present weight in kgper day in overweight pregnant women (120 to 150 percent of ideal body weight). 12 to 15 kcal per presentweight in kg per day for morbidly obese pregnant women(>150 percent of ideal body weight). 40 kcal per presentweight in kg per day in pregnant women who are lessthan 80 percent of ideal body weight.

  3. Carbohydrate intake. Recommendations for calorie and carbohydrate distribution are 40 percent carbohydrate,20 percent protein, and 40 percent fat.

4. Calorie distribution

a.
Distribution of calories should be three meals and three snacks. In overweight women, however, thesnacks are eliminated.
b.
The remaining calories should be distributed as 30percent at both lunch and dinner, with the leftovercalories distributed as snacks. With this calorie distribution, 75 to 80 percent of women with gestationaldiabetes can achieve normoglycemia.

5. Women should be encouraged to choose lean, low-fatfoods and to avoid excessive weight gain. Obesity cancause excessive fetal growth and worsens glucose intolerance.

B. Glucose monitoring and goal concentrations

1. Women with gestational diabetes should measure bloodglucose at home and keep a diet diary. Blood glucose should be measured upon awakening and one hour aftereach meal. Two criteria should be met to assure that the degree of glycemic control is adequate to preventmacrosomia:

a.
The fasting blood glucose concentration should beless than 90 mg/dL. The one-hour postprandial bloodglucose concentration should be less than 120 mg/dL.
b.
Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) should be measured every two to four weeks.

C. Control of blood glucose

1. Insulin

a.
Fifteen percent of women with gestational diabetesrequire insulin therapy because of elevated bloodglucose concentrations despite dietary therapy. Insulinshould be initiated when the fasting blood glucose isgreater than 90 mg/dL and the one-hour postprandialblood glucose is greater than 120 mg/dL on two ormore occasions within a two-week interval despitedietary therapy.
b.
Preprandial blood glucose concentrations below 90mg/dL and one-hour postprandial concentrationsbelow 120 mg/dL minimize the incidence ofmacrosomia.
c.
If insulin is required because the fasting blood glucoseconcentration is high, an intermediate-acting insulin,such as NPH insulin, is given before bedtime. Theinitial dose should be 0.15 U/kg body weight. If postprandial blood glucose concentrations are high, thenregular insulin or insulin lispro should be given beforemeals in a dose calculated to be 1.5 U per 10 gramscarbohydrate in the breakfast meal and 1.0 U per 10grams carbohydrate in the lunch and dinner meals. Ifboth preprandial and postprandial blood glucose concentrations are high, then a four-injection per dayregimen should be initiated.
d.
The total dose is 0.7 U/kg for weeks six to 18, 0.8U/kg for weeks 19 to 26, 0.9 U/kg for weeks 27 to 36,and 1.0 U/kg for weeks 37 to term. The insulin shouldbe divided about 45 percent as NPH insulin, 30 percent before breakfast and 15 percent before bedtime,and about 55 percent as preprandial regular insulin,22 percent before breakfast, 16.5 percent beforelunch, and 16.5 percent before dinner.
e.
Adjustments in the insulin doses are based upon theresults of self blood glucose monitoring. Insulin resistance increases as gestation proceeds, requiring anincrease in insulin dose.

D. Peripartum concerns

  1. Fetal surveillance. Counting fetal movements is a simple way to assess fetal well-being. Fewer than ten fetalmovements in a 12-hour period is associated with a pooroutcome. Fetal surveillance should be initiated in women in whom gestational diabetes is not well-controlled, whorequire insulin, or have other complications of pregnancy(eg, hypertension, adverse obstetric history).

  2. Early delivery. Women with good glycemic control andno other complications ideally will deliver at 39 to 40weeks of gestation.

  3. Macrosomia and cesarean delivery. The risk of macrosomia among women with untreated GDM is 17 to29 percent. Cesarean delivery for the prevention ofshoulder dystocia is recommended when the estimatedfetal weight is greater than 4.5 kg.

E. Delivery. The great majority of women with gestationaldiabetes proceed to term and have a spontaneous vaginaldelivery. The maternal blood glucose concentration shouldbe maintained between 70 and 90 mg/dL. Insulin can usually be withheld during delivery, and an infusion of normalsaline is usually sufficient to maintain normoglycemia.

F. Postpartum concerns

  1. Nearly all women with gestational diabetes arenormoglycemic after delivery. However, they are at riskfor recurrent gestational diabetes, impaired glucosetolerance, and overt diabetes. One-third to two-thirds of women will have gestational diabetes in a subsequentpregnancy. Women with gestational diabetes have anincidence of type 2 diabetes in the first five yearspostpartum of 47 to 50 percent.

  2. After delivery, blood glucose should be measured toensure that the mother no longer has hyperglycemia.Fasting blood glucose concentrations should be below115 mg/dL and one-hour postprandial concentrationsshould be below 140 mg/dL. A woman with gestationaldiabetes should be able to resume a regular diet. However, she should continue to measure blood glucose athome for a few weeks after discharge.

  3. Six to eight weeks after delivery, or shortly after cessation of breast feeding, all women with previous gestational diabetes should undergo an oral glucose tolerancetest. A two-hour 75 gram oral glucose tolerance test isrecommended.

References: See page 155.

Group B Streptococcal Infection in Pregnancy

Group B streptococcus (GBS; Streptococcus agalactiae), a Grampositive coccus, is an important cause of infection in neonates,causing sepsis, pneumonia, and meningitis. GBS infection isacquired in utero or during passage through the vagina. Vaginalcolonization with GBS during pregnancy may lead to prematurebirth, and GBS is a frequent cause of maternal urinary tract infection, chorioamnionitis, postpartum endometritis, and bacteremia.

I. Clinical evaluation

A. The primary risk factor for GBS infection is maternal GBSgenitourinary or gastrointestinal colonization.

B. The rate of transmission from colonized mothers to infants is approximately 50 percent. However, only 1 to 2 percent of all

colonized infants develop early-onset GBS disease.

C. Maternal obstetrical factors associated with neonatal GBS disease:

  1. Delivery at less than 37 weeks of gestation

  2. Premature rupture of membranes

  3. Rupture of membranes for 18 or more hours before delivery

  4. Chorioamnionitis

  5. Temperature greater than 38EC during labor

  6. Sustained intrapartum fetal tachycardia

  7. Prior delivery of an infant with GBS disease

D. Manifestations of early-onset GBS disease. Early-onsetdisease results in bacteremia, generalized sepsis, pneumonia, or meningitis. The clinical signs usually are apparent inthe first hours of life.

II. 2002 CDC guidelines for intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis:

A. All pregnant women should be screened for GBS colonization with swabs of both the lower vagina and rectum at 35 to37 weeks of gestation. Patients are excluded from screeningif they had GBS bacteriuria earlier in the pregnancy or if theygave birth to a previous infant with invasive GBS disease.These latter patients should receive intrapartum antibioticprophylaxis regardless of the colonization status.

B. Intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended forthe following:

  1. Pregnant women with a positive screening culture unlessa planned Cesarean section is performed in the absenceof labor or rupture of membranes

  2. Pregnant women who gave birth to a previous infant withinvasive GBS disease

  3. Pregnant women with documented GBS bacteriuria during the current pregnancy

  4. Pregnant women whose culture status is unknown (culture not performed or result not available) and who alsohave delivery at <37 weeks of gestation, amniotic membrane rupture for >18 hours, or intrapartum temperature >100.4ºF (>38ºC)

C. Intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis is not recommendedfor the following patients:

  1. Positive GBS screening culture in a previous pregnancy(unless the infant had invasive GBS disease or thescreening culture is also positive in the current pregnancy)

  2. Patient who undergoes a planned Cesarean sectionwithout labor or rupture of membranes

  3. Pregnant women with negative GBS screening cultures at35 to 37 weeks of gestation even if they have one ormore of the above intrapartum risk factors

D. Recommended IAP regimen

  1. Penicillin G (5 million units IV initial dose, then 2.5 million units IV Q4h) is recommended for most patients.

  2. In women with non-immediate-type penicillin-allergy, cefazolin (Ancef, 2 g initial dose, then 1 g Q8h) is recommended.

  3. Patients at high risk for anaphylaxis to penicillins are treated with clindamycin (900 mg IV Q8h) or erythromycin(500 mg IV Q6h) as long as their GBS isolate is documented to be susceptible to both clindamycin anderythromycin.

  4. For patients at high risk for anaphylaxis and a GBSresistant isolate (or with unknown susceptibility) toclindamycin or erythromycin, vancomycin (1 g Q12h)should be given.

  5. Antibiotic therapy is continued from hospital admissionthrough delivery.

E. Approach to threatened preterm delivery at <37 weeks ofgestation: A patient with negative GBS cultures (after 35weeks of gestation) should not be treated during threatenedlabor. If GBS cultures have not been performed, these specimens should be obtained and penicillin G administered asabove; if cultures are negative at 48 hours, penicillin can bediscontinued. If such a patient has not delivered within fourweeks, cultures should be repeated.

F. If screening cultures taken at the time of threateneddelivery or previously performed (after 35 weeks ofgestation) are positive, penicillin should be continued for atleast 48 hours unless delivery supervenes. Patients whohave been treated for >48 hours and have not delivered should receive IAP as above when delivery occurs.

References: See page 155.

Premature Rupture of Membranes

Premature rupture of the membranes (PROM) refers to rupture ofmembranes prior to the onset of labor or regular uterine contractions. It can occur at term or prior to term, in which case it isdesignated preterm premature rupture of the membranes(PPROM). The frequencies of term, preterm, and midtrimesterPROM are 8, 1 to 3, and less than 1 percent of pregnancies,respectively.The incidence of this disorder to be 7-12%. In pregnancies of lessthan 37 weeks of gestation, preterm birth (and its sequelae) andinfection are the major concerns after PROM.

I. Pathophysiology

A. Premature rupture of membranes is defined as rupture ofmembranes prior to the onset of labor.

B. Preterm premature rupture of membranes is defined as rupture of membranes prior to term.

C. Prolonged rupture of membranes consists of rupture ofmembranes for more than 24 hours.

D. The latent period is the time interval from rupture of membranes to the onset of regular contractions or labor.

E. Many cases of preterm PROM are caused by idiopathicweakening of the membranes, many of which are caused bysubclinical infection. Other causes of PROM include hydramnios, incompetent cervix, abruptio placentae, andamniocentesis.

F. At term, about 8% of patients will present with ruptured membranes prior to the onset of labor.

II. Maternal and neonatal complications

A. Labor usually follows shortly after the occurrence of PROM.Ninety percent of term patients and 50% of preterm patientsgo into labor within 24 hours after rupture.

B. Patients who do not go into labor immediately are at increasing risk of infection as the duration of rupture increases.Chorioamnionitis, endometritis, sepsis, and neonatal infections may occur.

C. Perinatal risks with preterm PROM are primarily complications from immaturity, including respiratory distress syndrome, intraventricular hemorrhage, patent ductusarteriosus, and necrotizing enterocolitis.

D. Premature gestational age is a more significant cause ofneonatal morbidity than is the duration of membrane rupture.

III. Diagnosis of premature rupture of membranes

A. Diagnosis is based on history, physical examination, andlaboratory testing. The patient's history alone is correct in90% of patients. Urinary leakage or excess vaginal discharge is sometimes mistaken for PROM.

B. Sterile speculum exam is the first step in confirming thesuspicion of PROM. Digital examination should be avoidedbecause it increases the risk of infection.

  1. The general appearance of the cervix should be assessed visually, and prolapse of the umbilical cord or afetal extremity should be excluded. Cultures for group Bstreptococcus, gonorrhea, and chlamydia are obtained.

  2. A pool of fluid in the posterior vaginal fornix supports thediagnosis of PROM.

  3. The presence of amniotic fluid is confirmed by nitrazinetesting for an alkaline pH. Amniotic fluid causes nitrazinepaper to turn dark blue because the pH is above 6.0-6.5.Nitrazine may be false-positive with contamination fromblood, semen, or vaginitis.

  4. If pooling and nitrazine are both non-confirmatory, a swabfrom the posterior fornix should be smeared on a slide,allowed to dry, and examined under a microscope for"ferning," indicating amniotic fluid.

  5. Ultrasound examination for oligohydramnios is useful toconfirm the diagnosis, but oligohydramnios may becaused by other disorders besides PROM.

C. Laboratory diagnosis

  1. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is present at high concentrations in amniotic fluid, but not in vaginal secretions, urine, or semen.

  2. Ultrasonography may be of value in the diagnosis ofPROM. The finding of anhydramnios or severeoligohydramnios combined with a characteristic history ishighly suggestive, but not diagnostic, of rupture of membranes.

  3. Gestational age assessment should be calculated. Ultrasonography on admission is useful for determiningpresentation, residual amniotic fluid volume, fetal sizeand anatomic survey, and fetal well-being.

  4. Assessment of fetal well-being. Fetal well-being isgenerally assessed via an external fetal monitor. A reactive nonstress test is reassuring. Patients withnonreassuring fetal heart rate testing should be deliveredor further evaluated.

IV.Assessment of premature rupture of membranes

A. The gestational age must be carefully assessed. Menstrualhistory, prenatal exams, and previous sonograms are reviewed. An ultrasound examination should be performed.

B. The patient should be evaluated for the presence ofchorioamnionitis [fever (over 38EC), leukocytosis, maternaland fetal tachycardia, uterine tenderness, foul-smellingvaginal discharge].

C. The patient should be evaluated for labor, and a sterile speculum examination should assess cervical change.

D. The fetus should be evaluated with heart rate monitoringbecause PROM increases the risk of umbilical cord prolapseand fetal distress caused by oligohydramnios.

V. Management of premature rupture of membranes

A. Management of term patients

  1. At 36 weeks and beyond, management of PROM consistsof delivery. Patients in active labor should be allowed to progress.

  2. Patients with chorioamnionitis, who are not in labor, should be immediately induced with oxytocin (Pitocin).

  3. Patients who are not yet in active labor (in the absence offetal distress, meconium, or clinical infection) may bedischarged for 48 hours, and labor usually follows. If laborhas not begun within a reasonable time after rupture ofmembranes, induction with oxytocin (Pitocin) is appropriate. Use of prostaglandin E2 is safe for cervical ripening.

B. Management of Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes

1. Women with PPROM should be hospitalized until delivery. Expeditious delivery is indicated for abruptio placentae, intrauterine infection, or evidence of fetal compromise (eg, repetitive FHR decelerations or an unstablefetal presentation that poses a risk of cord prolapse).Pregnancies >32 weeks of gestation with documentedfetal lung maturity will achieve better outcomes with immediate delivery than with expectant management.

2. Group beta-hemolytic streptococcal (GBS) status

should be determined and intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis considered for pregnant women whose GBS culturestatus is unknown (culture not performed or result notavailable) and who also are likely to deliver before 37weeks of gestation, have amniotic membranes that havebeen ruptured for $18 hours, or have an intrapartum temperature >100.4ºF.

  1. Patients are typiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y kept at modified bedrest and frequently assessed for evidence of infection or labor.

  2. Tocolytics can be given to allow administration of antenatal corticosteroids and antibiotics.

  3. Fetal surveillance consists of kick counts, nonstress tests, biophysical profiles (BPP). Abnormalities of thesetests are predictive of fetal infection and umbilical cordcompression related to oligohydramnios.

    1. Fetal lung maturity. Antenatal corticosteroid administra

    2. tion is recommended for pregnancies complicated byPPROM at less than 32 weeks of gestation, as long asthere is no clinical evidence of chorioamnionitis. A singlecourse of corticosteroids should be administered. In more advanced gestations, fetal lung maturity tests may beperformed via amniocentesis or on amniotic fluid samplesaspirated from the vagina.
  4. All patients with PPROM should be delivered at >32 weeks after confirmation of fetal lung maturity or a courseof corticosteroids.

  5. When there is confirmed fetal lung maturation at or beyond 32 weeks of gestation, the risks of expectant management often exceed those of delivery. Women withPPROM who are >32 weeks of gestation with a maturefetal lung profile are best managed by prompt induction oflabor. Antibiotic prophylaxis for possible GBS colonizationshould be given during labor in the absence of a documented, recent negative GBS culture.

  6. Contraindications to expectant management. Women are not candidates for expectant management if theyhave advanced labor, intrauterine infection, significantvaginal bleeding, or nonreassuring fetal testing.

  7. Antibiotic prophylaxis

a.
Antibiotic therapy is important in the management ofpatients with PPROM.
b.
Ampicillin (1 or 2 g IV every 6 hours for 24 hours, then500 mg PO every 6 hours until delivery) pluserythromycin or azithromycin is recommended.
(1)
Azithromycin (Zithromax, 1 g orally as a singledose) may be substituted for erythromycin because of improved oral absorption, a broaderspectrum of antibacterial properties, and bettertolerance.
(2)
Women with bacterial vaginosis should be treatedwith metronidazole (250 mg PO three times dailyfor seven days).
Sample Antibiotic Regimens Used for Prophylaxis inWomen with PPROM
Antibiotic Dose
Ampicillin 1 or 2 g IV every 6 hours for 24 hours,then 500 mg PO every 6 hours until delivery
AmpicillinGentamicin Clindamycin Amoxicillin plus clavulanicacid (Augmentin) 2 g IV every 6 hours for 4 doses and90 mg IV initially, then 60 mg IV every 8hours for three doses and 900 mg IV every 8 hours for three doses,followed by500 mg PO TID for 7 days
Erythromycin base 333 mg PO every 8 hours until delivery
Piperacillin 3 g IV every 6 hours for 3 days
Ampicillin-sulbactam(Unasyn) 3 g every 6 hours for 7 days
Ampicillin 2 g IV every 6 hours for 7 days
Ampicillin-sulbactamAmoxicillin-clavulante 1.5 g IV every 6 hours for 72 hours, followed by500 mg PO every 8 hours until delivery

References: See page 155.

Preterm Labor

Preterm labor is the leading cause of perinatal morbidity andmortality in the United States. It usually results in preterm birth, acomplication that affects 8 to 10 percent of births.

Risk Factors for Preterm Labor
Previous preterm deliveryLow socioeconomic status Non-white race Maternal age <18 years or >40 years Preterm premature rupture of themembranes Multiple gestationMaternal history of one or morespontaneous second-trimesterabortions Maternal complications--Maternal behaviors --Smoking--Illicit drug use--Alcohol use --Lack of prenatal careUterine causes --Myomata (particularlysubmucosal or subplacental)--Uterine septum--Bicornuate uterus --Cervical incompetence--Exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) Infectious causes --Chorioamnionitis --Bacterial vaginosis--Asymptomatic bacteriuria--Acute pyelonephritis--Cervical/vaginal colonization Fetal causes --Intrauterine fetal death --Intrauterine growth retardation --Congenital anomalies Abnormal placentation Presence of a retained intrauterine device

I. Clinical evaluation of preterm labor

A. Diagnosis of preterm labor is based upon the presenceof regular, painful uterine contractions accompanied bycervical dilation and/or effacement that occurs before 37weeks of gestation. Criteria include persistent uterine contractions (four every 20 minutes or eight every 60 minutes) with documented cervical change or cervical effacement ofat least 80 percent, or cervical dilatation greater than 1 cm.

B. Women with a history of previous preterm delivery carry thehighest risk of recurrence, estimated to be between 17 and37 percent.

Preterm Labor, Threatened or Actual
II. Initial assessment to determine whether patient is experiencingpreterm laborA. Assess for the following:1. Uterine activity 2. Rupture of membranes 3. Vaginal bleeding 4. Presentation 5. Cervical dilation and effacement 6. Station B. Reassess estimate of gestational age III. Search for a precipitating factor/cause IV. Consider specific management strategies, which may include thefollowing:A. Intravenous tocolytic therapy (decision should be influenced bygestational age, cause of preterm labor and contraindications) B. Corticosteroid therapy (eg, betamethasone, in a dosage of 12mg IM every 24 hours for a total of two doses) C. Antibiotic therapy if specific infectious agent is identified or ifpreterm premature rupture of the membranes

V. Management of preterm labor

A. Tocolysis

1. Tocolytic therapy may offer some short-term benefit inthe management of preterm labor. A delay in deliverycan be used to administer corticosteroids to enhance pulmonary maturity and reduce the severity of fetal respiratory distress syndrome, and to reduce the risk ofintraventricular hemorrhage. No study has convincinglydemonstrated an improvement in survival or neonataloutcome with the use of tocolytic therapy alone. Gestational age under 34 weeks is a prerequisite for inhibiting labor. Fifteen weeks gestational age is the lowestgestational age for which inhibition of labor should beconsidered.

Tocolytic Therapy for the Management of Preterm Labor
Medication Mechanism of action Dosage
Terbutalin e (Bricanyl) Beta2-adrenergicreceptor agonistsympathomimetic;decreases free intracellular calcium ions2.5 to 5 µg/min; increasedby 2.5 to 5 µg/min every 20to 30 minutes to a maximum of 25 µg/min, or until thecontractions have abated. 0.25 mg subcutaneouslyevery 20 to 30 minutes forup to four doses or untiltocolysis is achieved. 0.25mg every 3 to 4 hours.
Nifedipine(Procardia) Calcium channel blocker 30 mg orally, followed by 20mg orally in 90 minutes, followed by 20 mg orally everyfour to eight hours.
Indometh acin (Indocin) Prostaglandin inhibitor 50- to 100-mg rectal suppository, then 25 to 50 mg orallyevery six hours

Complications Associated With the Use of TocolyticAgents

Beta-adrenergic agentsIndomethacin (Indocin)

  • Hypokalemia• Renal failure

  • Hyperglycemia• Hepatitis

  • Hypotension• Gastrointestinal bleeding

• Pulmonary edemaNifedipine (Procardia)

  • Arrhythmias• Transient hypotension

  • Cardiac insufficiency

  • Myocardial ischemia

  • Maternal death

VI.Contraindications to tocolysis

A. Contraindications to labor inhibition are intrauterine fetal demise, lethal fetal anomaly, nonreassuring fetalassessment, severe intrauterine growth restriction,chorioamnionitis, maternal hemorrhage with hemodynamicinstability, and severe preeclampsia or eclampsia.

B. Inhibition of preterm labor is less effective when cervicaldilatation is advanced (greater than 3 to 4 cm). Tocolysiscan be considered in these cases, especially when thegoal is to administer antenatal corticosteroids.

VII.Inhibition of preterm labor

A. Bedrest, hydration, and sedation. Bedrest has not been shown to prolong gestation. Intravenous hydration andsedation do not reduce the rate of preterm birth.

B. Beta-adrenergic receptor agonists

  1. Maternal side effects include tachycardia, palpitations,and lowered blood pressure. Myocardial ischemia israre. Common side effects include chest discomfort (10percent), shortness of breath (15 percent), palpitations(18 percent), tremor (39 percent) and anxiety. Pulmonary edema is an uncommon maternal complication,occurring in 0.3 percent.

  2. Beta-adrenergic-receptor agonists may causehypokalemia (39 percent), hyperglycemia (30 percent),and lipolysis. Glucose and potassium should be monitored. Neonatal hypoglycemia may result from fetalhyperinsulinemia due to prolonged maternalhyperglycemia.

  3. Contraindications to beta-agonists. Beta-adrenergicreceptor agonists are relatively contraindicated among

women with cardiac disease. Women with poorly controlled hyperthyroidism or diabetes mellitus should notreceive these agents. Well-controlled diabetes mellitusis not a contraindication.

4. Dose

a.
Terbutaline is the most commonly used beta-agonistfor labor inhibition. It is typiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y given as a continuous intravenous infusion started at 2.5 to 5 µg/min;increased by 2.5 to 5 µg/min every 20 to 30 minutesto a maximum of 25 µg/min, or until the contractionshave abated. At this point, the infusion may be reduced by decrements of 2.5 to 5 µg/min to the lowestdose that maintains uterine quiescence.
b.
Terbutaline can also be administered subcutaneously as 0.25 mg every 20 to 30 minutes for up tofour doses or until tocolysis is achieved. It should bewithheld if the maternal heart rate exceeds 120 beats/min. Once labor is inhibited, 0.25 mg can beadministered every 3 to 4 hours until the uterus isquiescent for 24 hours.

C. Calcium channel blockers

  1. Nifedipine is more effective than betamimetics for delaying delivery at least 48 hours. Dosage is 30 mgorally, followed by 20 mg orally in 90 minutes, followedby 20 mg orally every four to eight hours.

  2. Maternal side effects. Nifedipine may cause nausea,flushing, headache, dizziness, and palpitations.Nifedipine also decreases mean arterial pressure andincreases heart rate.

  3. Contraindications. Calcium channel blockers should be used with caution in women with left ventricular dysfunction or congestive heart failure.

D. Indomethacin

  1. Indomethacin is a nonspecific cyclooxygenase inhibitor. Indomethacin is significantly more effective thanplacebo.

  2. Maternal side effects include nausea, esophagealreflux, gastritis, and emesis.

  3. Fetal side effects. The primary fetal concerns with useof indomethacin are constriction of the ductus arteriosus and oligohydramnios.

  4. Contraindications. Maternal contraindications include platelet dysfunction or bleeding disorder, hepatic dysfunction, gastrointestinal ulcerative disease, renal dysfunction, and asthma (in women with hypersensitivity toaspirin).

E. Recommendations. Beta-adrenergic agonists are thefirst-line agents for treatment of preterm labor.Indomethacin is recommended for women in PTL with gestations less than 32 weeks in which beta-agonistscannot be administered.

VIII. Corticosteroid therapy

A. Dexamethasone and betamethasone are the preferredcorticosteroids for antenatal therapy. Corticosteroid therapyfor fetal maturation reduces mortality, respiratory distresssyndrome and intraventricular hemorrhage in infants between 24 and 34 weeks of gestation.

Recommended Antepartum Corticosteroid Regimens forFetal Maturation in Preterm Infants
Medication Dosage
Betamethasone (Celestone) 12 mg IM every 24 hours for two doses
Dexamethasone 6 mg IM every 12 hours for four doses

IX.Intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis against group B streptococcus is recommended for the following:

A. Pregnant women with a positive screening culture unless aplanned Cesarean section is performed in the absence oflabor or rupture of membranes

B. Pregnant women who gave birth to a previous infant withinvasive GBS disease

C. Pregnant women with documented GBS bacteriuria duringthe current pregnancy

D. Pregnant women whose culture status is unknown (culturenot performed or result not available) and who also havedelivery at <37 weeks of gestation, amniotic membranerupture for >18 hours, or intrapartum temperature >100.4ºF (>38ºC)

E. The recommended IAP regimen is penicillin G (5 millionunits IV initial dose, then 2.5 million units IV Q4h). Inwomen with non-immediate-type penicillin-allergy, cefazolin(Ancef, 2 g initial dose, then 1 g Q8h) is recommended.

References: See page 155.

Bleeding in the Second Half of Pregnancy

Bleeding in the second half of pregnancy occurs in 4% of allpregnancies. In 50% of cases, vaginal bleeding is secondary toplacental abruption or placenta previa.

I. Clinical evaluation of bleeding second half of pregnancy

A. History of trauma or pain and the amount and character ofthe bleeding should be assessed.

B. Physical examination

  1. Vital signs and pulse pressure are measured.Hypotension and tachycardia are signs of serioushypovolemia.

  2. Fetal heart rate pattern and uterine activity are assessed.

  3. Ultrasound examination of the uterus, placenta and fetusshould be completed.

  4. Speculum and digital pelvic examination should not be

done until placenta previa has been excluded.

C. Laboratory Evaluation

1. Hemoglobin and hematocrit.

2. INR, partial thromboplastin time, platelet count,fibrinogen level, and fibrin split products are checked when placental abruption is suspected or if there hasbeen significant hemorrhage.

  1. A red-top tube of blood is used to perform a bedside clot test.

  2. Blood type and cross-match.

  3. Urinalysis for hematuria and proteinuria.

  4. The Apt test is used to distinguish maternal or fetalsource of bleeding. (Vaginal blood is mixed with an equalpart 0.25% sodium hydroxide. Fetal blood remains red;maternal blood turns brown.)

  5. Kleihauer-Betke test of maternal blood is used to quantify fetal to maternal hemorrhage.

II.
Placental abruption (abruptio placentae) is defined as complete or partial placental separation from the decidua basalisafter 20 weeks gestation.
A.
Placental abruption occurs in 1 in 100 deliveries.

B. Factors associated with placental abruption

  1. Preeclampsia and hypertensive disorders

  2. History of placental abruption

  3. High multiparity

  4. Increasing maternal age

  5. Trauma

  6. Cigarette smoking

  7. Illicit drug use (especially cocaine)

  8. Excessive alcohol consumption

  9. Preterm premature rupture of the membranes

  10. Rapid uterine decompression after delivery of the firstfetus in a twin gestation or rupture of membranes withpolyhydramnios

  11. Uterine leiomyomas

C. Diagnosis of placental abruption

1. Abruption is characterized by vaginal bleeding, abdominalpain, uterine tenderness, and uterine contractions.

a.
Vaginal bleeding is visible in 80%; bleeding is concealed in 20%.
b.
Pain is usually of sudden onset, constant, and localized to the uterus and lower back.
c.
Localized or generalized uterine tenderness and increased uterine tone are found with severe placentalabruption.
d.
An increase in uterine size may occur with placentalabruption when the bleeding is concealed. Concealedbleeding may be detected by serial measurements ofabdominal girth and fundal height.
e.
Amniotic fluid may be bloody.
f.
Fetal monitoring may detect distress.
g.
Placental abruption may cause preterm labor.
  1. Uterine contractions by tocodynamometry is the mostsensitive indicator of abruption.

  2. Laboratory findings include proteinuria and a consumptive coagulopathy, characterized by decreased fibrinogen,prothrombin, factors V and VIII, and platelets. Fibrin splitproducts are elevated.

  3. Ultrasonography has a sensitivity in detecting placentalabruption of only 15%.

D. Management of placental abruption

1. Mild placental abruption

a.
If maternal stability and reassuring fetal surveillanceare assured and the fetus is immature, close expectant observation with fetal monitoring is justified.
b.
Maternal hematologic parameters are monitored andabnormalities corrected.
c.
Tocolysis with magnesium sulfate is initiated if thefetus is immature.

2. Moderate to severe placental abruption

a. Shock is aggressively managed.

b. Coagulopathy

(1)
Blood is transfused to replace blood loss.
(2)
Clotting factors may be replaced usingcryoprecipitate or fresh-frozen plasma. One unit offresh-frozen plasma increases fibrinogen by 10mg/dL. Cryoprecipitate contains 250 mgfibrinogen/unit; 4 gm (15-20 U) is an effective dose.
(3)
Platelet transfusion is indicated if the platelet countis less than 50,000/mcL. One unit of plateletsraises the platelet count 5000-10,000/mcL; 4 to 6 Uis the smallest useful dose.
c.
Oxygen should be administered and urine outputmonitored with a Foley catheter.
d.
Vaginal delivery is expedited in all but the mildestcases once the mother has been stabilized. Amniotomy and oxytocin (Pitocin) augmentation maybe used. Cesarean section is indicated for fetal distress, severe abruption, or failed trial of labor.
III.
Placenta previa occurs when any part of the placenta implantsin the lower uterine segment. It is associated with a risk ofserious maternal hemorrhage. Placenta previa occurs in 1 in200 pregnancies. Ninety percent of placenta previas diagnosedin the second trimester resolve spontaneously.
A.
Total placenta previa occurs when the internal cervical os is completely covered by placenta.
B.
Partial placenta previa occurs when part of the cervical os is covered by placenta.
C.
Marginal placenta previa occurs when the placental edgeis located within 2 cm of the cervical os.

D. Clinical evaluation

  1. Placenta previa presents with a sudden onset of painlessvaginal bleeding in the second or third trimester. Thepeak incidence occurs at 34 weeks. The initial bleedingusually resolves spontaneously and then recurs later in pregnancy.

  2. One fourth of patients present with bleeding and uterinecontractions.

E. Ultrasonography is accurate in diagnosing placenta previa.

F. Management of placenta previa

  1. In a pregnancy >36 weeks with documented fetal lungmaturity, the neonate should be immediately delivered bycesarean section.

  2. Low vertical uterine incision is probably safer in patientswith an anterior placenta. Incisions through the placentashould be avoided.

  3. If severe hemorrhage jeopardizes the mother or fetus,cesarean section is indicated regardless of gestational age.

  4. Expectant management is appropriate for immaturefetuses if bleeding is not excessive, maternal physicalactivity can be restricted, intercourse and douching canbe prohibited, and the hemoglobin can be maintained at >10 mg/dL.

  5. Rh immunoglobulin is administered to Rh-negativeunsensitized patients.

  6. Delivery is indicated once fetal lung maturity has beendocumented.

  7. Tocolysis with magnesium sulfate may be used for immature fetuses.

IV. Cervical bleeding

A. Cytologic sampling is necessary.

B. Bleeding can be controlled with cauterization or packing.

C. Bacterial and viral cultures are sometimes diagnostic.

V. Cervical polyps

A. Bleeding is usually self-limited.

B. Trauma should be avoided.

C. Polypectomy may control bleeding and yield a histologicdiagnosis.

VI. Bloody show is a frequent benign cause of late third trimesterbleeding. It is characterized by blood-tinged mucus associatedwith cervical change.

References: See page 155.

Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is characterized by new onset of hypertension andproteinuria after 20 weeks of gestation. It complicates 5 to 8percent of pregnancies and is associated with iatrogenicprematurity. Clinical manifestations of preeclampsia can appearanytime between the second trimester and the first few days postpartum.

I. Clinical evaluation

A. Screening. Pregnant women are routinely screened forsigns and symptoms of preeclampsia at each prenatal visit.Women at high risk for preeclampsia should be seen in earlypregnancy to assess blood pressure, establish accuratepregnancy dating, and perform baseline laboratory tests.

B. Risk factors for preeclampsia:

  1. Primigravid state.

  2. History of preeclampsia.

  3. A higher blood pressure at the initiation of pregnancy anda large body size.

  4. A family history of preeclampsia is associated with a twoto fivefold increase in risk.

  5. Multiple pregnancy.

  6. Preexisting maternal hypertension.

  7. Pregestational diabetes.

  8. Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome.

  9. Vascular or connective tissue disease. 10.Advanced maternal age (>35 to 40 years).

C. Late pregnancy screening. Measurement of blood pressure and urine protein at regular intervals in the late secondand third trimesters is critical for diagnosis of preeclampsia.A rising blood pressure is usually the first sign of disease.Women should report possible signs of preeclampsia, suchas persistent or severe headache, visual changes, rightupper quadrant or epigastric pain, sudden large weight gain,or facial edema.

Diagnosis of Preeclampsia
Systolic blood pressure >140 mm Hg or Diastolic blood pressure > 90 mm HgAND A random urine protein determination of 1+ on dipstick or 30mg/dL or proteinuria of 0.3 g or greater in a 24-hour urinespecimen
Criteria for Gestational Hypertension
Systolic blood pressure >140 mm HgDiastolic blood pressure >90 mm HgAND no proteinuriaDeveloping AFTER the 20th week of gestation in womenknown to be normotensive before pregnancy
Criteria for Severe Preeclampsia
New onset proteinuria hypertension and at least one ofthe following:Symptoms of central nervous system dysfunction: Blurred vision, scotomata, altered mental status, severe headache Symptoms of liver capsule distention: Right upper quadrantor epigastric painHepatocellular injury: Serum transaminase concentration at least twice normal Severe blood pressure elevation: Systolic blood pressure >160 mm Hg or diastolic >110 mm Hg on two occasions at least six hours apartThrombocytopenia: Less than 100,000 platelets per mm3 Proteinuria: Over 5 grams in 24 hours or 3+ or more on tworandom samples four hours apartOliguria <500 mL in 24 hoursIntrauterine fetal growth restriction Pulmonary edema or cyanosis Cerebrovascular accident Coagulopathy

D. Maternal assessment of women with hypertension aftermidpregnancy. Mild preeclampsia includes those womenwho satisfy the criteria for preeclampsia but do not have anyfeatures of severe disease.

  1. Hypertension should be confirmed by at least two measurements at least several six hours apart.

  2. Laboratory evaluation consists of hematocrit (hemoconcentration suggests preeclampsia), plateletcount, protein excretion, serum creatinine, serum uricacid, serum alanine and aspartate aminotransferaseconcentrations (ALT, AST), and lactic aciddehydrogenase concentration (LDH).

E. Eclampsia refers to the development of grand mal seizuresin a woman with preeclampsia. Preeclampsia-eclampsia iscaused by generalized vasospasm, activation of the coagulation system, and changes in autoregulatory systems related to blood pressure control.

F. Edema and intravascular volume. Most women with preeclampsia have edema. Although peripheral edema iscommon in normal pregnancy, sudden and rapid weight gainand facial edema often occur in women who developpreeclampsia.

G. Hematologic changes. Increased platelet turnover is aconsistent feature of preeclampsia. The most commoncoagulation abnormality in preeclampsia isthrombocytopenia.

H. Liver involvement may present as right upper quadrant orepigastric pain, elevated liver enzymes and subcapsularhemorrhage or hepatic rupture.

I. Central nervous system. Headache, blurred vision, scotomata, and, rarely, cortical blindness are manifestationsof preeclampsia; seizures in a preeclamptic woman aredefined as eclampsia.

J. Fetus and placenta. The fetal consequences are fetalgrowth restriction and oligohydramnios. Severe or earlyonset preeclampsia result in the greatest decrements in birthweight.

II. Management of preeclampsia

A. The definitive treatment of preeclampsia is delivery. Deliveryis recommended for women with mild preeclampsia at ornear term and for most women with severe preeclampsia orsevere gestational hypertension regardless of gestationalage. Exceptions may be made for women remote from term(less than 32 to 34 weeks of gestation) who improve afterhospitalization and do not have significant end-organ dysfunction or fetal deterioration.

B. Fetal assessment consists of daily fetal movement countsand nonstress testing and/or biophysical profiles at periodicintervals. A sonographic estimation of fetal weight should beperformed to look for growth restriction and oligohydramnios,and it should be repeated serially.

Fetal Assessment in Preeclampsia
Mild preeclampsia Daily fetal movement countingUltrasound examination for estimation of fetal weight and amniotic fluid determination at diagnosis. Repeat in threeweeks if the initial examination is normal, twice weekly if there is evidence offetal growth restriction oroligohydramnios.Nonstress test and/or biophysical profileonce or twice weekly. Testing should berepeated immediately if there is anabrupt change in maternal condition.
Severe preeclampsia Daily nonstress testing and/or biophysical profile

C. Antenatal corticosteroids to promote fetal lung maturationshould be administered to women less than 34 weeks of gestation who are at high risk for delivery within the nextseven days. Betamethasone (two doses of 12 mg givenintramuscularly 24 hours apart) or dexamethasone (fourdoses of 6 mg given intramuscularly 12 hours apart) may beused.

D. Maternal monitoring. Laboratory evaluation (eg, hematocrit,platelet count, creatinine, urine protein, LDH, AST, ALT, uricacid) should be repeated once or twice weekly in women withmild stable preeclampsia.

E. Symptoms. Patients should Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) immediately if they developsevere or persistent headache, visual changes, right upperquadrant or epigastric pain, nausea or vomiting, shortness ofbreath, or decreased urine output. Decreased fetal movement, vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, rupture of membranes, or uterine contractions should be reported immediately.

F. Women with severe preeclampsia should be delivered or hospitalized for the duration of pregnancy. Prolongedantepartum management may be considered in selectedwomen under 32 weeks of gestation, such as those whosecondition improves after hospitalization and who have noevidence of end-organ dysfunction or fetal deterioration.

G. Timing and indications for delivery. Delivery at or by 40weeks of gestation should be considered for all women withpreeclampsia. Women with mild disease and a favorablecervix may benefit from induction as early as 38 weeks, whilethose with stable severe disease should be delivered after 32 to 34 weeks if possible (with demonstration of fetal pulmonary maturity).

Indications for Delivery in Preeclampsia
Maternal indications Gestational age greater than or equalto 38 weeks of gestation Platelet count less than 100,000 cells per mm3 Deteriorating liver functionProgressive deterioration in renal function Abruptio placentaePersistent severe headaches or visual changesPersistent severe epigastric pain, nausea, or vomiting
Fetal indications Severe fetal growth restriction Nonreassuring results from fetal testingOligohydramnios

H. Laboratory

  1. Platelet count, creatinine, urine protein, and liver enzymes, should be repeated once or twice weekly inwomen with mild stable preeclampsia. Protein excretion can be quantified with a protein-to-creatinine ratio.

  2. A rising hematocrit suggests progression to moresevere disease, while a falling hematocrit may be asign of hemolysis. An elevated lactic aciddehydrogenase (LDH) concentration is a better sign ofhemolysis, and a marker of severe disease or HELLPsyndrome (ie, Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes,Low Platelets). Hemolysis can be confirmed by observation of schistocytes on a blood smear.

III. Severe preeclampsia

A. All women with severe preeclampsia should be delivered orhospitalized for the duration of pregnancy. Prolongedantepartum management may be considered in womenunder 32 to 34 weeks of gestation who have:

  1. Severe proteinuria (greater than 5 g in 24 hours).

  2. Mild intrauterine fetal growth restriction (fifth to tenthpercentile), as long as antepartum fetal testing remainsreassuring, oligohydramnios is not severe, umbilicalartery diastolic flow is not reversed on Dopplervelocimetry, and there is progressive fetal growth.

  3. Severe hypertension with blood pressure reduction afterhospitalization.

  4. Asymptomatic laboratory abnormalities that quickly resolve after hospitalization.

B. Delivery should be initiated, after a course of antenatalcorticosteroid therapy if possible, when there is poorly controlled, severe hypertension, eclampsia, thrombocytopenia(less than 100,000 platelets/microL), elevated liver functiontests with epigastric or right upper quadrant pain, pulmonaryedema, rise in serum creatinine concentration by 1 mg/dLover baseline, placental abruption, or persistent severeheadache or visual changes. Fetal indications for deliveryinclude nonreassuring fetal testing, severe oligohydramnios,or severe fetal growth restriction (less than the 5th percentile).

C. Timing and indications for delivery

  1. Timing of delivery is based upon the maternal and fetalcondition and gestational age.

  2. Women who develop severe preeclampsia at or beyond32 to 34 weeks of gestation should be delivered.

  3. Women with mild disease remote from term can be managed expectantly to enable fetal growth and maturation.

  4. Women with mild disease and a favorable cervix or who are noncompliant may benefit from induction as early as37 weeks; otherwise, delivery by 40 weeks of gestationshould be considered.

  5. Women with stable, severe disease under 32 to 34 weeks may be managed expectantly with daily maternaland fetal monitoring. Delivery can be delayed until eithera course of glucocorticoids to accelerate fetal lung maturation can be completed or there is evidence of fetalpulmonary maturity or 34 weeks of gestation are completed.

  6. Delivery should be undertaken if there are signs of worsening disease (eg, severe hypertension not controlledwith antihypertensive therapy, cerebral/visual symptoms,platelet count <100,000 cells/microL, deterioration in liveror renal function, abdominal pain, severe fetal growthrestriction, abruption, nonreassuring fetal testing).

  7. Eclampsia is also an indication for delivery.

D. Route of delivery. Delivery is usually by the vaginal route,with cesarean delivery reserved for the usual obstetricalindications. Severe preeclampsia does not mandate immediate cesarean birth.

IV.Anticonvulsant therapy is generally initiated during labor orwhile administering corticosteroids or prostaglandins prior toplanned delivery and continued until 24 to 48 hourspostpartum, when the risk of seizures is low. Magnesiumsulfate is the drug of choice for seizure prevention.

A. Magnesium sulfate is given as a loading dose of 6 g intravenously, followed by 2 g per hour as a continuous infusion.Magnesium sulfate should be considered for prevention of eclampsia in all women with preeclampsia.

B. Magnesium toxicity is related to serum concentration: lossof deep tendon reflexes occurs at 8 to 10 mEq/L, respiratoryparalysis at 10 to 15 mEq/L, and cardiac arrest at 20 to 25mEq/L. Calcium gluconate (1 g intravenously over at 5 to 10minutes) is administered to counteract magnesium toxicity.

V. Treatment of hypertension in preeclampsia

A. Severe hypertension should be treated. In adult women,diastolic blood pressures >105 to 110 mm Hg or systolic pressures >160 to 180 mm Hg are considered severe hypertension. In adolescents, treatment is initiated at diastolicpressures of >100 mm Hg.

B. Intravenous labetalol is both effective and safe (beginningwith 20 mg intravenously followed at 10- to 15-minute intervals by 40 mg, then 80 mg up to a maximum total cumulative dose of 220 mg).

C. Occasionally, preeclamptic women with severe hypertension are stabilized and not delivered. In these patients, oralantihypertensive therapy is often indicated. The only oraldrugs that have been proven to be safe in pregnant womenare methyldopa (250 mg twice daily orally, maximum dose 4g/day), and beta-blockers, such as labetalol (100 mg twicedaily orally, maximum dose 2400 mg/day).

D.Blood pressure goal. The goal of therapy is a systolicpressure of 140 to 155 mm Hg and diastolic pressure of 90to 105 mm Hg.

Treatment of Severe Hypertension in Preeclampsia
The goal is a gradual reduction of blood pressure to a levelbelow 160/105 mm Hg. Sudden and severe hypotensionshould be avoided.
Hydralazine: 5 mg IV, repeat 5 to 10 mg IV every 20 minutesto maximum cumulative total of 20 mg or until blood pressureis controlled.
Labetalol (Trandate): 20 mg IV, followed by 40 mg, then 80mg, then 80 mg at 10 minute intervals until the desired response is achieved or a maximum total dose of 220 mg isadministered.
Methyldopa (Aldomet) 250 mg BID orally, maximum dose 4g/day

II. Management of eclampsia

A. Maintenance of airway patency and prevention of aspirationare the initial management priorities. The patient should berolled onto her left side and a padded tongue blade placedin her mouth, if possible.

B. Control of convulsions. Magnesium sulfate, 2 to 4 g IVpush repeated every 15 minutes to a maximum of 6 g. Maintenance dose of magnesium sulfate: 2 to 3 g/hourby continuous intravenous infusion. Diazepam may also begiven as 5 mg IV push repeated as needed to a maximumcumulative dose of 20 mg to stop the convulsions; however,benzodiazepines have profound depressant effects on thefetus.

C. Postpartum course. Hypertension due to preeclampsiaresolves postpartum, often within a few days, but sometimes taking a few weeks. Severe hypertension should betreated; antihypertensive medications can be discontinuedwhen blood pressure returns to normal.

III.
Postpartum hypertension. A small rise in blood pressure iscommon, with an average increase in systolic and diastolicpressure of 6 and 4 mm Hg, respectively, in the first fourpostpartum days.
A.
Preeclampsia-related hypertension usually resolves within afew weeks (average 16 days) and should always be goneby 12 weeks postpartum. Mild hypertension that persistsbeyond this period should be evaluated and treated.
B.
Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers are suitable choices for nonbreastfeeding mothers. ACE inhibitors should beavoided during lactation. Diuretics may reduce milk volumeand should be avoided.

IV.Pre-existent hypertension

A. There is a threefold increase in perinatal mortality, a twofoldincrease in abruptio placentae, and an increased rate ofimpaired fetal growth in pregnant women with preexistinghypertension. There is also a higher rate of preterm deliverybefore 35 weeks.

B. Maternal evaluation

  1. Baseline laboratory tests include urinalysis and urineculture, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, glucose,electrolytes, and 24-hour urine collection for total proteinand creatinine clearance. An electrocardiogram shouldbe obtained in women with long-standing hypertension.

  2. Periodic reassessment of serum creatinine and quantitative testing for urine protein is recommended every trimester.

C. Indications for treatment. Women with chronic hypertension who are normotensive or mildly hypertensive on medication may continue their therapy or have theirantihypertensive agents tapered and/or stopped during pregnancy.

  1. Mild essential hypertension. Indications for initiating orreinstituting antihypertensive therapy are a diastolicpressure persistently above 100 mm Hg, systolic pressure >150 to 160 mm Hg, or signs of hypertensive end-organ damage.

  2. Severe hypertension (blood pressure >180/110 mmHg), particularly if associated with signs of early hypertensive encephalopathy, should be treated to protect themother from stroke, heart failure, or renal failure.

D. Choice of drug

    1. Methyldopa and hydralazine have been most widely usedin pregnant women and their long-term safety for the

    2. fetus has been demonstrated. ACE inhibitors should not be continued in pregnancy.
  1. Beta-blockers are generally considered to be safe, although they may impair fetal growth when used early inpregnancy, particularly atenolol. Labetalol is the preferred agent. Nifedipine (30 to 90 mg once daily assustained-release tablet, increase at 7 to 14 day intervals, maximum dose 120 mg/day) has been used.

  2. The normal fall in blood pressure during the secondtrimester may allow a reduction in drug dosage or evencessation of therapy.

  3. Start treatment with either labetolol or methyldopa. Along-acting calcium channel blocker (eg, nifedipine oramlodipine) can be added as either second- or third-line treatment.

  4. Blood pressure goal. The goal of therapy in womenwithout end-organ damage is systolic pressure between140 and 150 mm Hg and diastolic pressure between 90and 100 mm Hg. However, in women with end-organdamage, the blood pressure should be below 140/90 mmHg.

E. Other management issues

  1. Frequent prenatal visits for monitoring maternal bloodpressure, proteinuria, and fundal growth and by periodicsonographic estimation of fetal size are recommended.

  2. Fetal evaluation. A baseline ultrasound examination is recommended at 16 to 20 weeks of gestation to confirmgestational age. A nonstress test or biophysical profileshould be performed weekly starting at 32 weeks.

  3. Delivery. Woman with mild, uncomplicated chronic hypertension can be allowed to go into spontaneous laborand deliver at term. Earlier delivery can be considered forwomen with severe hypertension, superimposedpreeclampsia, or pregnancy complications (eg, fetalgrowth restriction, previous stillbirth).

F. Treatment of hypertension. Antihypertensive treatment isindicated if the systolic blood pressure is >170 mm Hg. Thepreferred agents are methyldopa for prolonged antenataltherapy, and hydralazine, labetalol or nifedipine forperipartum treatment of acute hypertensive episodes. Sodium restriction and diuretics have no role in therapy. Restricted physical activity can lower blood pressure.

References: See page 155.

Dystocia and Augmentation of Labor

I. Normal labor

A. First stage of labor

  1. The first stage of labor consists of the period from theonset of labor until complete cervical dilation (10 cm). Thisstage is divided into the latent phase and the active phase.

  2. Latent phase

a.
During the latent phase, uterine contractions are infrequent and irregular and result in only modest discomfort. They result in gradual effacement and dilation ofthe cervix.
b.
A prolonged latent phase is one that exceeds 20 hoursin the nullipara or one that exceeds 14 hours in themultipara.

3. Active phase

a.
The active phase of labor occurs when the cervixreaches 3-4 cm of dilatation.
b.
The active phase of labor is characterized by an increased rate of cervical dilation and by descent of thepresenting fetal part.

B. Second stage of labor

  1. The second stage of labor consists of the period fromcomplete cervical dilation (10 cm) until delivery of theinfant. This stage is usually brief, averaging 20 minutes forparous women and 50 minutes for nulliparous women.

  2. The duration of the second stage of labor is unrelated toperinatal outcome in the absence of a nonreassuring fetalheart rate pattern as long as progress occurs.

II.Abnormal labor

A. Dystocia is defined as difficult labor or childbirth resultingfrom abnormalities of the cervix and uterus, the fetus, the maternal pelvis, or a combination of these factors.

B. Cephalopelvic disproportion is a disparity between the sizeof the maternal pelvis and the fetal head that precludesvaginal delivery. This condition can rarely be diagnosed inadvance.

C. Slower-than-normal (protraction disorders) or completecessation of progress (arrest disorder) are disorders that can be diagnosed only after the parturient has entered theactive phase of labor.

III. Assessment of labor abnormalities

A. Labor abnormalities caused by inadequate uterine contractility (powers). The minimal uterine contractile pattern ofwomen in spontaneous labor consists of 3 to 5 contractionsin a 10-minute period.

B. Labor abnormalities caused by fetal characteristics (passenger)

  1. Assessment of the fetus consists of estimating fetal weightand position. Estimations of fetal size, even those obtained by ultrasonography, are frequently inaccurate.

  2. In the first stage of labor, the diagnosis of dystocia can notbe made unless the active phase of labor and adequateuterine contractile forces have been present.

  3. Fetal anomalies such as hydrocephaly, encephalocele,and soft tissue tumors may obstruct labor. Fetal imagingshould be considered when malpresentation or anomaliesare suspected based on vaginal or abdominal examinationor when the presenting fetal part is persistently high.

C. Labor abnormalities due to the pelvic passage (passage)

  1. Inefficient uterine action should be corrected before attributing dystocia to a pelvic problem.

    1. The bony pelvis is very rarely the factor that limits vaginaldelivery of a fetus in cephalic presentation. Radiographic

    2. pelvimetry is of limited value in managing most cephalicpresentations.
  2. Clinical pelvimetry can only be useful to qualitatively identify the general architectural features of the pelvis.

IV. Augmentation of labor

A. Uterine hypocontractility should be augmented only after boththe maternal pelvis and fetal presentation have been assessed.

B. Contraindications to augmentation include placenta or vasaprevia, umbilical cord prolapse, prior classical uterine incision, pelvic structural deformities, and invasive cervical cancer.

C. Oxytocin (Pitocin)

  1. The goal of oxytocin administration is to stimulate uterineactivity that is sufficient to produce cervical change andfetal descent while avoiding uterine hyperstimulation andfetal compromise.

  2. Minimally effective uterine activity is 3 contractions per10 minutes averaging greater than 25 mm Hg above baseline. A maximum of 5 contractions in a 10-minute periodwith resultant cervical dilatation is considered adequate.

  3. Hyperstimulation is characterized by more than fivecontractions in 10 minutes, contractions lasting 2 minutesor more, or contractions of normal duration occurringwithin 1 minute of each other.

  4. Oxytocin is administered when a patient is progressingslowly through the latent phase of labor or has a protraction or an arrest disorder of labor, or when a hypotonicuterine contraction pattern is identified.

  5. A pelvic examination should be performed before initiationof oxytocin infusion.

  6. Oxytocin is usually diluted 10 units in 1 liter of normalsaline IVPB.

Labor Stimulation with Oxytocin (Pitocin)
StartingDose (mU/min) Incremental Increase (mU/min) Dosage Interval (min) Maximum Dose (mU/min)
6 6 15 40

7. Management of oxytocin-induced hyperstimulation

a.
The most common adverse effect of hyperstimulationis fetal heart rate deceleration associated with uterine hyperstimulation. Stopping or decreasing thedose of oxytocin may correct the abnormal pattern.
b.
Additional measures may include changing the patient to the lateral decubitus position and administering oxygen or more intravenous fluid.
c.
If oxytocin-induced uterine hyperstimulation does notrespond to conservative measures, intravenousterbutaline (0.125-0.25 mg) or magnesium sulfate (26 g in 10-20% dilution) may be used to stop uterinecontractions.

References: See page 155.

Shoulder Dystocia

Shoulder dystocia, defined as failure of the shoulders to deliverfollowing the head, is an obstetric emergency. The incidencevaries from 0.6% to 1.4% of all vaginal deliveries. Up to 30% ofshoulder dystocias can result in brachial plexus injury; many fewersustain serious asphyxia or death. Most commonly, size discrepancy secondary to fetal macrosomia is associated with difficultshoulder delivery. Causal factors of macrosomia include maternaldiabetes, postdates gestation, and obesity. The fetus of the diabetic gravida may also have disproportionately large shouldersand body size compared with the head.

I. Prediction

A. The diagnosis of shoulder dystocia is made after delivery ofthe head. The “turtle” sign is the retraction of the chinagainst the perineum or retraction of the head into the birthcanal. This sign demonstrates that the shoulder girdle isresisting entry into the pelvic inlet, and possibly impaction ofthe anterior shoulder.

B. Macrosomia has the strongest association. ACOG definesmacrosomia as an estimated fetal weight (EFW) greaterthan 4500 g.

C. Risk factors for macrosomia include maternal birth weight,prior macrosomia, preexisting diabetes, obesity, multiparity,advanced maternal age, and a prior shoulder dystocia. Therecurrence rate has been reported to be 13.8%, nearlyseven times the primary rate. Shoulder dystocia occurs in5.1% of obese women. In the antepartum period, risk factorsinclude gestational diabetes, excessive weight gain, shortstature, macrosomia, and postterm pregnancy. Intrapartumfactors include prolonged second stage of labor, abnormalfirst stage, arrest disorders, and instrumental (especiallymidforceps) delivery. Many shoulder dystocias will occur inthe absence of any risk factors.

II. Management

A. Shoulder dystocia is a medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) and possibly surgical emergency. Two assistants should be Call(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)ed for if not alreadypresent, as well as an anesthesiologist and pediatrician. Agenerous episiotomy should be cut. The following sequenceis suggested:

  1. McRoberts maneuver: The legs are removed from thelithotomy position and flexed at the hips, with flexion ofthe knees against the abdomen. Two assistants arerequired. This maneuver may be performed prophylactiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y in anticipation of a difficult delivery.

    1. Suprapubic pressure: An assistant is requested to applypressure downward, above the symphysis pubis. This canbe done in a lateral direction to help dislodge the anteriorshoulder from behind the pubic symphysis. It can also beperformed in anticipation of a difficult delivery. Fundalpressure may increase the likelihood of uterine rupture

    2. and is contraindicated.
  2. Rotational maneuvers: The Woods' corkscrew maneuver consists of placing two fingers against the anterioraspect of the posterior shoulder. Gentle upward rotationalpressure is applied so that the posterior shoulder girdlerotates anteriorly, allowing it to be delivered first. TheRubin maneuver is the reverse of Woods's maneuver. Two fingers are placed against the posterior aspect of theposterior (or anterior) shoulder and forward pressureapplied. This results in adduction of the shoulders anddisplacement of the anterior shoulder from behind thesymphysis pubis.

  3. Posterior arm release: The operator places a hand intothe posterior vagina along the infant's back. The posteriorarm is identified and followed to the elbow. The elbow is then swept across the chest, keeping the elbow flexed.The fetal forearm or hand is then grasped and the posterior arm delivered, followed by the anterior shoulder. If thefetus still remains undelivered, vaginal delivery should beabandoned and the Zavanelli maneuver performed followed by cesarean delivery.

  4. Zavanelli maneuver: The fetal head is replaced into thewomb. Tocolysis is recommended to produce uterinerelaxation. The maneuver consists of rotation of the head to occiput anterior. The head is then flexed and pushedback into the vagina, followed abdominal delivery. Immediate preparations should be made for cesarean delivery.

  5. If cephalic replacement fails, an emergencysymphysiotomy should be performed. The urethra should be laterally displaced to minimize the risk of lower urinarytract injury.

B. The McRoberts maneuver alone will successfully alleviatethe shoulder dystocia in 42% to 79% of cases. For thoserequiring additional maneuvers, vaginal delivery can beexpected in more than 90%. Finally, favorable results havebeen reported for the Zavanelli maneuver in up to 90%.

References: See page 155.

Induction of Labor

Induction of labor refers to stimulation of uterine contractions priorto the onset of spontaneous labor. Between 1990 and 1998, therate of labor induction doubled from 10 to 20 percent.

I. Indications for labor induction:

A. Preeclampsia/eclampsia, and other hypertensive diseases

B. Maternal diabetes mellitus

C. Prelabor rupture of membranes

D. Chorioamnionitis

E. Intrauterine fetal growth restriction (IUGR)

F. Isoimmunization

G. In-utero fetal demise

H. Postterm pregnancy

II. Absolute contraindications to labor induction:

A. Prior classical uterine incision

B. Active genital herpes infection

C. Placenta or vasa previa

D. Umbilical cord prolapse

E. Fetal malpresentation, such as transverse lie

II. Requirements for induction

A. Prior to undertaking labor induction, assessments of gestational age, fetal size and presentation, clinical pelvimetry,and cervical examination should be performed. Fetal maturityshould be evaluated, and amniocentesis for fetal lung maturity may be needed prior to induction.

B. Clinical criteria that confirm term gestation:

  1. Fetal heart tones documented for 30 weeks by Doppler.

  2. Thirty-six weeks have elapsed since a serum or urinehuman chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) pregnancy test waspositive.

  3. Ultrasound measurement of the crown-rump length at 6 to11 weeks of gestation or biparietal diameter/femur lengthat 12 to 20 weeks of gestation support a cliniCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y determined gestational age equal to or greater than 39 weeks.

C. Assessment of cervical ripeness

  1. A cervical examination should be performed before initiating attempts at labor induction.

  2. The modified Bishop scoring system is most commonlyused to assess the cervix. A score is calculated based upon the station of the presenting part and cervical dilatation, effacement, consistency, and position.

  3. The likelihood of a vaginal delivery after labor induction issimilar to that after spontaneous onset of labor if theBishop score is >8.

Modified Bishop Scoring System
0 1 2 3
Dilation, cm Closed 1-2 3-4 5-6
Effacement, percent 0-30 40-50 60-70 >80
Station* -3 -2 -1, 0 +1 , +2
Cer v i c a l consistency Firm Medium Soft
Position of the cervix Posterior Midposition Anterior
* Based on a -3 to +3 scale.

III. Induction of labor with oxytocin

A. The uterine response to exogenous oxytocin administrationis periodic uterine contractions.

B. Oxytocin regimen (Pitocin)

  1. Oxytocin is given intravenously. Oxytocin is diluted byplacing 10 units in 1000 mL of normal saline, yielding anoxytocin concentration of 10 mU/mL. Begin at 6 mU/minand increase by 6 mU/min every 15 minutes.

  2. Active management of labor regimens use a high-doseoxytocin infusion with short incremental time intervals.

  3. The dose of maximum oxytocin is usually 40 mU/min. Thedose is typiCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y increased until contractions occur at two tothree minute intervals.

High Dose Oxytocin Regimen
Begin oxytocin 6 mU per minute intravenouslyIncrease dose by 6 mU per minute every 15 minutesMaximum dose: 40 mU per minute Maximum total dose administered-during-labor: 10 U Maximum duration of administration: six hours

IV. Cervical ripening agents

A. A ripening process should be considered prior to use of oxytocinuse when the cervix is unfavorable.

B. Mechanical methods

  1. Membrane stripping is a widely utilized technique, which causes release of either prostaglandin F2-alpha from thedecidua and adjacent membranes or prostaglandin E2 fromthe cervix. Weekly membrane stripping beginning at 38weeks of gestation results in delivery within a shorter period of time (8.6 versus 15 days).

  2. Amniotomy is an effective method of labor induction when performed in women with partially dilated and effacedcervices. Caution should be exercised to ensure that the fetal vertex is well-applied to the cervix and the umbilical cord orother fetal part is not presenting.

  3. Foley catheter. An uninflated Foley catheter can be passedthrough an undilated cervix and then inflated. This techniqueis as effective as prostaglandin E2 gel. The use of extra-amniotic saline infusion with a balloon catheter or a double balloon catheter (Atad ripener) also appears to be effectivefor cervical ripening.

C. Prostaglandins

  1. Local administration of prostaglandins to the vagina or theendocervix is the route of choice because of fewer side effects and acceptable clinical response. Uncommon sideeffects include fever, chills, vomiting, and diarrhea.

  2. Prepidil contains 0.5 mg of dinoprostone in 2.5 mL of gel forintracervical administration. The dose can be repeated in 6 to12 hours if there is inadequate cervical change and minimaluterine activity following the first dose. The maximum cumulative dose is 1.5 mg (ie, 3 doses) within a 24-hour period. Thetime interval between the final dose and initiation of oxytocinshould be 6 to 12 hours because of the potential for uterinehyperstimulation with concurrent oxytocin and prostaglandin administration.

  3. Cervidil is a vaginal insert containing 10 mg of dinoprostonein a timed-release formulation. The vaginal insert administersthe medication at 0.3 mg/h and should be left in place for 12hours. Oxytocin may be initiated 30 to 60 minutes afterremoval of the insert.

  4. An advantage of the vaginal insert over the gel formulation is that the insert can be removed in cases of uterine hyperstimulation or abnormalities of the fetal heart rate tracing.

V. Complications of labor induction

A. Hyperstimulation and tachysystole may occur with use ofprostaglandin compounds or oxytocin. Hyperstimulation is defined as uterine contractions lasting at least two minutes or five or more uterine contractions in 10 minutes. Tachysystole isdefined as six or more contractions in 20 minutes.

B. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) preparations have up to a 5 percentrate of uterine hyperstimulation. Fetal heart rate abnormalitiescan occur, but usually resolve upon removal of the drug. Rarelyhyperstimulation or tachysystole can cause uterine rupture.Removing the PGE2 vaginal insert will usually help reverse theeffects of the hyperstimulation and tachysystole. Cervical andvaginal lavage after local application of prostaglandin compounds is not helpful.

C. If oxytocin is being infused, it should be discontinued to achievea reassuring fetal heart rate pattern. Placing the woman in theleft lateral position, administering oxygen, and increasingintravenous fluids may also be of benefit. Terbutaline 0.25 mgsubcutaneously (a tocolytic) may be given.

References: See page 155.

Postpartum Hemorrhage

Obstetric hemorrhage remains a leading causes of maternal mortality.Postpartum hemorrhage is defined as the loss of more than 500 mL ofblood following delivery. However, the average blood loss in an uncomplicated vaginal delivery is about 500 mL, with 5% losing morethan 1,000 mL.

I. Clinical evaluation of postpartum hemorrhage

A. Uterine atony is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage. Conditions associated with uterine atony include anoverdistended uterus (eg, polyhydramnios, multiple gestation),rapid or prolonged labor, macrosomia, high parity, andchorioamnionitis.

B. Conditions associated with bleeding from trauma include forceps delivery, macrosomia, precipitous labor and delivery, andepisiotomy.

C. Conditions associated with bleeding from coagulopathy andthrombocytopenia include abruptio placentae, amniotic fluidembolism, preeclampsia, coagulation disorders, autoimmunethrombocytopenia, and anticoagulants.

D. Uterine rupture is associated with previous uterine surgery,internal podalic version, breech extraction, multiple gestation,and abnormal fetal presentation. High parity is a risk factor for both uterine atony and rupture.

E. Uterine inversion is detected by abdominal vaginal examination, which will reveal a uterus with an unusual shape after delivery.

II. Management of postpartum hemorrhage

A. Following delivery of the placenta, the uterus should be palpated to determine whether atony is present. If atony is present,vigorous fundal massage should be administered. If bleedingcontinues despite uterine massage, it can often be controlled with bimanual uterine compression.

B. Genital tract lacerations should be suspected in patients whohave a firm uterus, but who continue to bleed. The cervix and vagina should be inspected to rule out lacerations. If no laceration is found but bleeding is still profuse, the uterus should bemanually examined to exclude rupture.

C. The placenta and uterus should be examined for retained placental fragments. Placenta accreta is usually manifest byfailure of spontaneous placental separation.

D. Bleeding from non-genital areas (venous puncture sites)suggests coagulopathy. Laboratory tests that confirmcoagulopathy include INR, partial thromboplastin time, plateletcount, fibrinogen, fibrin split products, and a clot retraction test.

E. medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) management of postpartum hemorrhage

  1. Oxytocin (Pitocin) is usually given routinely immediately afterdelivery to stimulate uterine firmness and diminish blood loss.20 units of oxytocin in 1,000 mL of normal saline or Ringer'slactate is administered at 100 drops/minute. Oxytocin shouldnot be given as a rapid bolus injection because of the potential for circulatory collapse.

  2. Methylergonovine (Methergine) 0.2 mg can be given IM ifuterine massage and oxytocin are not effective in correctinguterine atony and provided there is no hypertension.

3. 15-methyl prostaglandin F2-alpha (Hemabate), one ampule

(0.25 mg), can be given IM, with repeat injections every20min, up to 4 doses can be given if hypertension is present;it is contraindicated in asthma.

Treatment of Postpartum Hemorrhage Secondary to UterineAtony
Drug Protocol
Oxytocin 20 U in 1,000 mL of lactated Ringer's as IV infusion
Methylergonovine (Methergine) 0.2 mg IM
Prostaglandin (15 methylPGF2-alpha [Hemabate,Prostin/15M]) 0.25 mg as IM every 15-60 minutes as necessary

F. Volume replacement

  1. Patients with postpartum hemorrhage that is refractory tomedical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) therapy require a second large-bore IV catheter. Ifthe patient has had a major blood group determination andhas a negative indirect Coombs test, type-specific bloodmay be given without waiting for a complete cross-match.Lactated Ringer's solution or normal saline is generouslyinfused until blood can be replaced. Replacement consistsof 3 mL of crystalloid solution per 1 mL of blood lost.

  2. A Foley catheter is placed, and urine output is maintained atgreater than 30 mL/h.

G. Surgical management of postpartum hemorrhage. If medical(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com) therapy fails, ligation of the uterine or uteroovarian artery,infundibulopelvic vessels, or hypogastric arteries, or hysterectomy may be indicated.

H. Management of uterine inversion

  1. The inverted uterus should be immediately repositionedvaginally. Blood and/or fluids should be administered. If theplacenta is still attached, it should not be removed until theuterus has been repositioned.

  2. Uterine relaxation can be achieved with a halogenatedanesthetic agent. Terbutaline is also useful for relaxing the uterus.

  3. Following successful uterine repositioning and placental

separation, oxytocin (Pitocin) is given to contract the uterus.References: See page 155.

Acute Endometritis

Acute endometritis is characterized by the presence ofmicroabscesses or neutrophils within the endometrial glands.

I. Classification of endometritis

A. Acute endometritis in the nonobstetric population is usuallyrelated to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) secondary to sexually transmitted infections or gynecologic procedures. Acuteendometritis in the obstetric population occurs as a postpartuminfection, usually after a labor concluded by cesarean delivery.

B. Chronic endometritis in the nonobstetric population is due toinfections (eg, chlamydia, tuberculosis, and other organismsrelated to cervicitis and PID), intrauterine foreign bodies (eg,intrauterine device, submucous leiomyoma), or radiation therapy.In the obstetric population, chronic endometritis is associated with retained products of conception after a recent pregnancy.

C. Symptoms in both acute and chronic endometritis consist ofabnormal vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain. However, patients with acute endometritis frequently have fevers in contrast tochronic endometritis.

II. Postpartum endometritis

A. Endometritis in the postpartum period refers to infection of thedecidua (ie, pregnancy endometrium), frequently with extensioninto the myometrium (endomyometritis) and parametrial tissues(parametritis).

B. The single most important risk factor for postpartum endometritisis route of delivery. The incidence of endometritis after a vaginalbirth is less than three percent, but is 5 to 10 times higher aftercesarean delivery.

C. Other proposed risk factors include prolonged labor, prolongedrupture of membranes, multiple vaginal examinations, internalfetal monitoring, maternal diabetes, presence of meconium, andlow socioeconomic status.

D. Microbiology. Postpartum endometritis is usually apolymicrobial infection, produced by a mixture of aerobes andanaerobes from the genital tract.

Type and Frequency of Bacterial Isolates in PostpartumEndometritis*
Isolate Frequency (percent)
Gram positive
Group B streptococci8
Enterococci 7
S. epidermidis9
Lactobacilli 4
Diphtheroids2
S. Aureus 1
Gram negative
G. vaginalis15
E. Coli 6
Enterobacterium spp.2
P. mirabilis 2
Others 3
Anaerobic
S. bivius 11
Other Bacteroides spp.9
Peptococci-peptostreptocci 22
MycoplasmaU. urealyticumM. hominis 39 11
C. trachomatis 2

E. Vaginal colonization with group B streptococcus (GBS) is a riskfactor for postpartum endometritis; GBS colonized women at delivery have an 80 percent greater likelihood of developingpostpartum endometritis.

F. Clinical manifestations and diagnosis. Endometritis is characterize, by fever, uterine tenderness, foul lochia, andleukocytosis that develop within five days of delivery. A temperature greater than or equal to 100.4 ºF (38 ºC) in the absence ofother causes of fever, such as pneumonia, wound cellulitis, andurinary tract infection is the most common sign.

G. Laboratory studies are not diagnostic since leukocytosis occurs frequently in all postpartum patients. However, a risingneutrophil count associated with elevated numbers of bands issuggestive of infectious disease. Bacteremia occurs in 10 to 20percent of patients; usually a single organism is identified despite polymicrobial infection. Blood cultures should be obtainedin febrile patients following delivery.

H. Treatment

  1. Postpartum endometritis is treated with broad spectrumparenteral antibiotics including coverage for beta-lactamaseproducing anaerobes. The standard treatment of clindamycin(900 mg q8h) plus gentamicin (1.5 mg/kg q8h) is safe andeffective, with reported cure rates of 90 to 97 percent.

  2. Treatment should continue until the patient is cliniCall(Buy now from http://www.drugswell.com)y improvedand afebrile for 24 to 48 hours. Oral antibiotic therapy is notnecessary after successful parenteral treatment, unlessbacteremia is present.

  3. Modifications in therapy may be necessary if there is no response to the initial antibiotic regimen after 48 to 72 hours.Approximately 20 percent of treatment failures are due to resistant organisms, such as enterococci which are not covered bycephalosporins or clindamycin plus gentamicin. The addition ofampicillin (2 g q4h) to the regimen can improve the responserate. Metronidazole (500 mg PO or IV q8h) may be more effective than clindamycin against Gram negative anaerobes but isgenerally not used in mothers who will be breastfeeding.

Antibiotic Regimens for Endometritis
Clindamycin (900 mg IV Q 8 hours) plus gentamicin (1.5 mg/kg IV Q 8 hours)Ampicillin-sulbactam (Unasyn) 3 grams IV Q 6 hours Ticarcillin-clavulanate (Timentin)3.1 grams IV Q 4 hours Cefoxitin (Mefoxin) 2 grams IV Q 6 hoursCeftriaxone (Rocephin) 2 grams IV Q 24 hours plus metronidazole 500 mgPO or IV Q 8 hours* Levofloxacin (Levaquin) 500 mg IV Q 24 hours plus metronidazole 500 mgPO or IV Q 8 hours*
* Should not be given to breastfeeding mothersIf chlamydia infection is suspected, azithromycin 1 gram PO for one doseshould be added to the regimen

References: See page 155.

Postpartum Fever Workup

History: Postpartum fever is >100.4 F (38 degrees C) on 2 occasions>6h apart after the first postpartum day (during the first 10 dayspostpartum), or >101 on the first postpartum day. Dysuria, abdominalpain, distention, breast pain, calf pain.Predisposing Factors: Cesarean section, prolonged labor, premature rupture of membranes, internal monitors, multiple vaginal exams,meconium, manual placenta extraction, anemia, poor nutrition.Physical Examination: Temperature, throat, chest, lung exams;breasts, abdomen. Costovertebral angle tenderness, uterine tenderness, phlebitis, calf tenderness; wound exam. Speculum exam.Differential Diagnosis: UTI, upper respiratory infection, atelectasis,pneumonia, wound infection, mastitis, episiotomy abscess; uterineinfection, deep vein thrombosis, pyelonephritis, pelvic abscess.

Labs: CBC, SMA7, blood C&S x 2, catheter UA, C&S. Gonococcus culture, chlamydia; wound C&S, CXR.

References

References may be obtained at www.ccspublishing.com/ccs

Commonly Used Formulas

A-a gradient = [(PB-PH2O) FiO2 - PCO2/R] - PO2 arterial

= (713 x FiO2 - pCO2/0.8 ) -pO2 arterial

PB = 760 mmHg; PH2O = 47 mmHg ; R . 0.8

normal Aa gradient <10-15 mmHg (room air)

Arterial oxygen capacity = (Hgb(gm)/100 mL) x 1.36 mL O2/gm Hgb

Arterial O2 content = 1.36(Hgb)(SaO2)+0.003(PaO2)= NL 20 vol%

O2 delivery = CO x arterial O2 content = NL 640-1000 mL O2/min

Cardiac output = HR x stroke volume

CO L/min = 125 mL O2/min/M2 x 100

8.5 {(1.36)(Hgb)(SaO2) - (1.36)(Hgb)(SvO2)}

Normal CO = 4-6 L/min

Na (mEq) deficit = 0.6 x (wt kg) x (desired [Na] - actual [Na])

SVR = MAP - CVP x 80 = NL 800-1200 dyne/sec/cm2 COL/min

PVR = PA - PCWP x 80 = NL 45-120 dyne/sec/cm2 CO L/min

GFR mL/min = (140 - age) x wt in kg 72 (males) x serum creatinine (mg/dL)85 (females) x serum creatinine (mg/dL)

Normal creatinine clearance = 100-125 mL/min(males), 85-105(females)

Body water deficit (L) = 0.6(weight kg)([measured serum Na]-140) 140

Serum Osmolality = 2 [Na] + BUN + Glucose = 270-290

2.8 18

Na (mEq) deficit = 0.6 x (wt kg)x(desired [Na] - actual [Na])

Fractional excreted Na = U Na/ Serum Na x 100 = NL<1% U creatinine/ Serum creatinine

Anion Gap = Na - (Cl + HCO3)

For each 100 mg/dL 8 in glucose, Na+ 9 by 1.6 mEq/L.

Corrected = measured Ca mg/dL + 0.8 x (4 - albumin g/dL) serum Ca+ (mg/dL)

Predicted Maximal Heart Rate = 220 - age

Normal ECG Intervals (sec)

PR 0.12-0.20 QRS 0.06-0.08

Heart rate/min Q-T

60 0.33-0.43 70 0.31-0.41 80 0.29-0.38 90 0.28-0.36 100 0.27-0.35

Total Parenteral Nutrition Equations:

Caloric Requirements: (Harris-Benedict Equations)

Basal energy expenditure (BEE)

Females: 655 + (9.6 x wt in kg) + (1.85 x ht in cm) - (4.7 x age)

Males: 66 + (13.7 x wt in kg) + (5 x ht in cm) - (6.8 x age)

A. BEE x 1.2 = Caloric requirement for minimally stressed patient

B. BEE x 1.3 = Caloric requirement for moderately stressed patient(inflammatory bowel disease, cancer, surgery)

C. BEE x 1.5 = Caloric requirement for severely stressed patient(major sepsis, burns, AIDS, liver disease)

D. BEE x 1.7 = Caloric requirement for extremely stressed patient(traumatic burns >50%, open head trauma, multiple stress)

Protein Requirements:

A. 0.8 gm protein/kg = Protein requirement for nonstressed patient.

B. 1.0-1.5 gm protein/kg = Protein requirement for patients with decreased visceral protein states (hypoalbumiaemia), recentweight loss, or hypercatabolic states.

C. >1.5 gm protein/kg = Protein requirement for patients with negative nitrogen balance receiving 1.5 gm protein/kg

Estimation of Ideal Body Weight:

A. Females: 5 feet (allow 100 lbs) + 5 lbs for each inch over 5 feet

B. Males: 5 feet (allow 106 lbs) + 6 lbs for each inch over 5 foot

Drug Levels of Commonly Used Medications

DRUG THERAPEUTIC RANGE*
Amikacin Peak 25-30; trough <10 mcg/mL
Amitriptyline 100-250 ng/mL
Carbamazepine 4-10 mcg/mL
Chloramphenicol Peak 10-15; trough <5 mcg/mL
Desipramine 150-300 ng/mL
Digitoxin 10-30 ng/mL
Digoxin 0.8-2.0 ng/mL
Disopyramide 2-5 mcg/mL
Doxepin 75-200 ng/mL
Ethosuximide 40-100 mcg/mL
Flecainide 0.2-1.0 mcg/mL
Gentamicin Peak 6.0-8.0; trough <2.0 mcg/mL
Imipramine 150-300 ng/mL
Lidocaine 2-5 mcg/mL
Lithium 0.5-1.4 mEq/L
Nortriptyline 50-150 ng/mL
Phenobarbital 10-30 mEq/mL
Phenytoin** 8-20 mcg/mL
Procainamide 4.0-8.0 mcg/mL
Quinidine 2.5-5.0 mcg/mL
Salicylate 15-25 mg/dL
Streptomycin Peak 10-20; trough <5 mcg/mL
Theophylline 8-20 mcg/mL
Tocainide 4-10 mcg/mL
Valproic acid 50-100 mcg/mL
Vancomycin Peak 30-40; trough <10 mcg/mL

* The therapeutic range of some drugs may vary depending on the reference lab used. ** Therapeutic range of phenytoin is 4-10 mcg/mL in presence of significant azotemia and/or hypoalbuminemia.

Pediatric and Obstetric Formulas

Normal urine output = 50 ml/kg/dOliguria = 0.5 ml/kg/hNormal feedings = 5 oz/kg/dFormula = 20 calories/ounce, 24 cal/oz, 27 cal/ozOunce = 30 cc Caloric Needs = 100 cal/kg/dCalories/Kg = cc of formula x 30 cc/oz x 20 calories/oz divided byweight.

Weight in Kg = pounds divided by 2.2Weight in Kg = [age in years x 2] +10

Blood volume (ml) = 80 ml/kg x weight (kg)

Blood Products:

10 cc/kg RBC will raise Hct 5%

0.1 unit/kg platelets will raise platelet count, 25000/mm3. 1 U/kg of Factor VIII will raise level by 2%.

Naegele's Rule: LMP minus 3 months plus 7 days = Estimated date ofconfinement.

GFR = (140 - age) x wt in Kg 85 x serum Cr

Normal Cr clearance = 85-105

Commonly Used Drug Levels
Drug Therapeutic Range
Amikacin Peak 25-30; trough <10 mcg/mL
Amiodarone 1.0-3.0 mcg/mL
Amitriptyline100-250 ng/mL
Carbamazepine4-10 mcg/mL
Desipramine150-300 ng/mL
Digoxin0.8-2.0 ng/mL
Disopyramide2-5 mcg/mL
Doxepin75-200 ng/mL
Flecainide 0.2-1.0 mcg/mL
Gentamicin Peak 6.0-8.0; trough <2.0 mcg/mL
Imipramine150-300 ng/mL
Lidocaine 2-5 mcg/mL
Lithium 0.5-1.4 mEq/L
Mexiletine 1.0-2.0 mcg/mL
Nortriptyline50-150 ng/mL
Phenobarbital 10-30 mEq/mL
Phenytoin8-20 mcg/mL
Procainamide 4.0-8.0 mcg/mL
Quinidine 2.5-5.0 mcg/mL
Salicylate15-25 mg/dL
StreptomycinPeak 10-20; trough <5 mcg/mL
Theophylline8-20 mcg/mL
Tocainide 4-10 mcg/mL
Valproic acid50-100 mcg/mL
Vancomycin Peak 30-40; trough <10 mcg/mL

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