Articles related to Anesthesiology

The recent United States Supreme Court ruling raises the bar for evidence that must be shown by the government in order to successfully prosecute doctors who prescribe excessive dosages of painkillers — a huge win for prescribers.

According to two lawsuits filed late last month, a New Jersey hospital is suing an anesthesiology staffing company for what it claims are major personnel shortages, while the company is suing the hospital for stealing its doctors and other professionals.

“Just an anesthesiologist.” This retired doctor speaks about the country’s lack of understanding of this medical profession. Why? In a recent survey, the general public was asked whether anesthesiologists are physicians: A full 22% of respondents answered incorrectly and 8% were unsure.

The CDC has released updated guidelines for prescribing opioids. The newest guidelines focus on patient-centered decisions and reduce some limitations on prescribing that were put in place back in 2016. The updated guidance recognizes the ongoing increase in opioid-related deaths, but seeks to give physicians and patients more direction in managing individual therapy.

Ordering NPO after midnight is common practice before surgery. However, a new report in the Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine argues that this common practice isn’t part of the American Society of Anesthesiologist guidelines, and may provide low value in terms of patient care but often leads to high rates of patient dissatisfaction

From the American Red Cross to volunteering overseas, there are plenty of feel-good “enlistments” out there for the practicing or retired physician, which can help ward off boredom and burnout while adding the benefit of perhaps learning a new skill or meeting new people. Whether your goals are short-term or you’re in for the long haul, here are nine opportunities to help humanity and feel good about the part you’re playing in the world.