Duty hours – no easy answers (h/t @FutureDocs)

The sleep researchers have overinfluenced the conclusions.  But read the article from FutureDocs to really understand.

It’s the job – the only solution to primary care

If we fix the job, we will have full residencies, and hospitalists leaving their jobs to come back to primary care.

Computers cannot practice medicine

The quote envisions a medical system where doctors input patient symptoms into a database, data-driven guidance for diagnosis.

Another sad Lemierre syndrome story

Every times I read one of these stories my heart breaks.  The reporter interviewed me extensively and quotes me accurately. 

Reflections on 30 years of ward attending

I estimate that I have done over 100 months of ward attending during this time.  I find ward attending energizing, enjoyable and rewarding.

Costs – simple principles

We could decrease health care costs, but too many special interests will prevent the changes we really need.

The week of pharyngitis

I have been smiling all week.  My paper will likely make a difference, and that really is why we write papers. 

17 days at the VA – day 13

We recently sent a patient to the unit looking septic.  Currently, the unit team suspect Macrophage Activation Syndrome. 

Why I like The Blind Side?

I am reminded that we should do more to allow the less fortunate to succeed.  That really is the American Dream.

ABG dilemma discussed

A woman with COPD had chronic respiratory acidosis initially. On day two, post-hypercapnic metabolic alkalosis appeared.