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A Root of Evil: Increased Intestinal Permeability

I was going to start this blog post on intestinal permeability with a patient scenario but decided against it. Because there are SO many different diseases and conditions that research has shown link back to increased intestinal permeability, I couldn’t choose one to start with. The following are just a few of the known conditions …

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The 3 Biggest Things I Learned While Studying for my PA-CAQ

Payal Shah, PA-C While studying for my CAQ, I learned many different things. Some while sitting down and answering review questions, others while actually on shift from my peers, attendings and consultants. I can discuss a plethora of information about everything I have learned, but I think the three most relevant things are: 1) Treat …

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Diverticulitis Management: Outpatient or Inpatient

Melanie Jones, PA-C Diverticulitis is an infection and/or inflammation in diverticula (small pouches) that occurs in the digestive tract, specifically the colon. In fact, there are more than 200,000 cases per year in the United States. Diverticulitis is the third leading cause of gastrointestinal complaints. Some patients may require inpatient treatment for severe pain or …

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Performing a Thorough Abdominal Exam

Josh Nowocin, PA-C Performing a thorough abdominal examination is a core skill every advanced practice provider should know. This exam plays a key role in determining a patients gastrointestinal and/or genitourinary pathology. It can also provide insight into other anatomical abnormalities. A detailed and thorough abdominal exam also decreases the need for radiologic testing. It …

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Basic Chest X-Ray Interpretation

Melissa Cody, ARNP The chest radiograph (CXR) is by far the most commonly ordered radiographic exam. This is because it can give the clinician quick and easy insight into what may be ailing their patient. Most practice sites are lucky enough to have immediate access to a radiologist’s interpretation – but what if you don’t? …

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What is Ultrasound?

Brandon Geer, APRN Ultrasound by definition is a collection of sound waves with frequencies above the limits of human hearing. The concept came from bats that navigated and hunted based on inaudible sound. Ultrasound was first used in World War I. A military scientist named Paul Langevin created a device to detect submarines. This has …

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