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Biomedical subjects

L Kravitz

Publications and source records attributed to L Kravitz.

8 recordsLinked to original sources

Computerized electrocardiogram interpretations: are they useful for the family physician?

Computerized electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation programs have become increasingly popular in this country, especially in hospital settings. In general, they reliably calculate heart rate, intervals, and mean QRS axis. When the computer interprets an ECG as normal, it is usually correct. The second opinion provided by computerized readings further benefits the primary care physician by suggesting findings not initially considered, and by forcing careful scrutiny of the original interpretation. Speed of interpretation may be greatly increased, particularly for the more experienced electrocardiographer who has a high volume of tracings to interpret. Each computer statement, however, must be carefully overread by the physician, for failure to do so may result in overlooking significant electrocardiographic findings. It is important that the family physician appreciate the strengths and weaknesses of computerized ECG interpretations so that he or she derives the greatest benefit from this diagnostic tool.

Diagnosis, Computer-Assisted

Understanding hearing loss in children.

At some point in their career, nurses will care for a child with a hearing loss. Understanding how to work best with these children necessitates an in-depth knowledge of how the hearing loss impacts both the child and family. Each component is interrelated. Knowing, for example, that the child has a profound sensorineural hearing loss tells the nurse much about the child's potential prognosis for improvement, use of amplification, communication style, and parental and family stress. While many variables impact on these basic features, they set the foundation for a deeper understanding and the formation of a stronger, trusting bond between the nurse and patient. As in all professional fields, issues related to deafness continue to change. There are new and improved forms of amplification as well as various effective communication methodologies. Most importantly, there is a change in attitude. The deaf do not view themselves as disabled. Instead they have a sense of pride in sharing a culture and a common language. Through this understanding, respect for one another can be achieved.

Amplifiers, Electronic

Potential benefits of a computer ECG interpretation system for primary care physicians in a community hospital.

One hundred fifteen ECGs from a hospital service were interpreted by 2 primary care physicians and 2 expert electrocardiographers. When their interpretations were compared with one another and with the Marquette MAC II ECG Interpretation Program, there was great variability. Computer ECG interpretations appeared to benefit primary care physicians most by providing a backup opinion. This second opinion was also of use to expert electrocardiographers. Additional long-term benefits that may be derived from computer systems include improvement of physician interpretation ability, reduction in interpretation time, and standardization of electrocardiographic nomenclature and criteria.

Diagnosis, Computer-Assisted

On mouth-to-mouth.

Health care providers are becoming increasingly reluctant to perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. While it may be prudent to exercise caution in this endeavor, it is important to appreciate the potential consequences of delaying this lifesaving procedure.

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome