Query: Source for AED
I want to purchase an automated external defibrillator (AED) for the office and am looking where to purchase one at best value. Recommendations for companies that sell used equipment will also be appreciated.
Hal Ornstein, DPM, Howell, NJ
From: Steve E Abraham, DPM
I purchased squaric acid from ScienceLab.com. I bought a 5g bottle; it seemed small but lasted several years. I mix some in sterile water. How much? Enough to make a supersaturated solution. After thorough shaking, some settles to the bottom. That's okay. I apply a "50 cent size" liberal application on the patient's forearm. I circle the area with a black magic marker. It is not necessary to cover, but sometimes we cover it. The patient keeps it dry for at least 24 hours.
They return in 2-3 days, and I repeat the process. They must wait for about 2-3 weeks before beginning to apply the squaric acid solution, allowing time for antibodies to build. The patient then shakes the bottle, uses a cotton-tipped applicator, and applies the squaric acid to the wart liberally. This is done twice a day for 3-4 weeks. We find that after a week, the color of the wart changes. Sometimes it is grey, sometimes silvery; it begins to look different. After about 4 weeks the wart shrivels, dies, and falls off.
There is NO pain with this procedure. I have used this on 6 patients, 3 of them with recalcitrant warts, and 3 with new warts. All resolved without any incident or issues. There are several sources for this treatment protocol. It works really nicely on young children.
Steve E Abraham, DPM, NY, NY
From: Brian Kiel, DPM, Deb Lund-Tlumak
Tincture of Benzoin works well. Apply and let it dry for a moment until tacky.
Brian Kiel, DPM, Memphis, TN
Mastisol is an adhesive adherent. It comes in a single application vial with an applicator tip. It also comes in bottles. This has been used for some time in the OR for Steristrips, etc.
Deb Lund-Tlumak, Clinical Practice Manager, Edmonds, WA
Query: Hospital Employment
I am considering a position with a small local hospital that would pay a base salary plus RVU bonus production. I am curious as to colleagues' opinions or experiences with this employment structure and whether or not they would recommend it vs. private practice, large group, etc. The other option that I am weighing is joining a small practice with one other practitioner who seems business savvy and has big plans for growing the group. Any suggestions?
Name Withheld
