Administering and interpreting the PHQ-9
In many healthcare settings, it is the patient who has to raise the topic of mental health with their provider. Learn how to create a bridge to initiate and screen for depression by administering the PHQ-9.
Panic disorder comorbid with mitral valve prolapse (MVP)
It is estimated that 10–40% of patients with panic disorder also have mitral valve prolapse. Learn more about how these two conditions can have overlapping physical symptoms.
Prescribing benzodiazepines for anxiety
Traditionally, benzodiazepines have been used PRN (or as needed) for anxiety, but they can be addictive and have the potential for abuse. Learn some alternatives to benzodiazepines that may be particularly effective in specific patient populations.
Screening for manic symptoms
Distinguishing between unipolar and bipolar depression helps guide treatment options. Learn how to use the DIGFAST mnemonic to quickly screen for manic symptoms indicative of bipolar disorder in your patients.
Prescribing NOACs in atrial fibrillation (AF)
As of 2019, novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs) are preferred over warfarin for the treatment of nonvalvular AF. Learn more about selecting the appropriate anticoagulant for your atrial fibrillation patients.
The four pillars of atrial fibrillation (AF) management
Rate control, rhythm control, and anticoagulation have traditionally been the three pillars of AF management. Learn about the addition of a fourth pillar and what this means for your atrial fibrillation patients.
Choosing a rate control medication for atrial fibrillation (AF)
New onset AF generally involves slowing the ventricular rate, restoring sinus rhythm, and then maintaining a normal heart rate. Learn more about the first step of rate control using medications.
Using HAS-BLED scoring to assess bleeding risk
There is a need to balance stroke prevention and bleeding risk when prescribing anticoagulants. Learn more about which elements of a patient's history increase their HAS-BLED score and therefore their bleeding risk.
Empirical antibiotic treatment of infective endocarditis
Endocarditis is a severe infection and often the patient needs antibiotics straight away. Learn how to choose the right regimen while waiting for a blood culture report.
Evaluating symptoms of infective endocarditis
Endocarditis often doesn’t manifest in an obvious manner—that’s why it’s good to know about the less common symptoms it can cause. Get some high-yield tips on endocarditis manifestation from Dr John Fisher, our infectious disease expert.