Do Masks Work or Not?

03/27/23 • 29 min

Although the numbers may be low, COVID-19 and other illnesses remain a significant threat to patients. The role of masks in preventing SARS-CoV-2 spread has been politicized since the beginning. A new meta-analysis purports to answer the question of mask effectiveness. Join host Geoff Wall, with guest Jake Galdo, as they deep dive into the article and evaluate the science.
The GameChanger
A new meta-analysis suggests that mask mandates do not affect the prevention and spread of COVID-19. However, the study has numerous limitations and errors, making its interpretation difficult.
Show Segments
00:00 - Introductions
01:31 - Pros and Cons of a Meta-Analysis
06:31: Looking at the Analysis
10:24 - The GameChanger: Jefferson et al. Results
11:24 - Connecting to Practice: Recognizing Limitations
28:43 - Closing Remarks
Host
Geoff Wall, PharmD, BCPS, FCCP, CGP
Professor of Pharmacy Practice, Drake University
Internal Medicine/Critical Care, UnityPoint Health
Jake Galdo, PharmD, MBA, BCPS, BCGP
Course Content and Developer, CEimpact
Managing Network Facilitator, CPESN Health Equity
CEO, Seguridad
References and Resources
Jefferson T, Dooley L, Ferroni E, et al. Physical interventions to interrupt or reduce the spread of respiratory viruses (Review). Cochrane Library.
Novella S. Masks Revisited. Science Based Medicine.
Redeem your CPE here
CPE (Pharmacist)
Get a membership & earn CE for GameChangers Podcast episodes (30 mins/episode)
Pharmacists: Get a membership
CE Information
Learning Objectives
Upon successful completion of this knowledge-based activity, participants should be able to:
1. Discuss the pros and cons of a meta-analysis
2. Describe the limitations of the Jefferson et al meta-analysis
0.05 CEU/0.5 Hr
UAN: 0107-0000-23-119-H01-P
Initial release date: 03/22/2023
Expiration date: 03/22/2024
Additional CPE and CME details can be found here.

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Previous Episode

Pharmacogenomics for Adverse Drug Reactions

Pharmacogenomics have long held the promise of using personalized information for drug selection to maximize efficacy and minimize adverse reactions. A new study evaluates the routine use of pharmacogenomic testing to improve safety in a wide range of medications. Join host, Geoff Wall, as he evaluates personalized medicine.
The GameChanger
Most studies using routine pharmacogenomic testing in clinical practice have not been significant. However, a new study found a 12 panel pharmacogenomic test did decrease the incidence of patient reported adverse effects compared to usual care. Several limitations still exist preventing widespread implementation.
Show Segments
00:00 - Introductions
01:38 - Genomic Guided Therapy to Date
05:05 - Importance of Genomic Variations
08:37 - Looking at the Study
21:20 - The GameChanger: Swen et al Results
27:50 - Connecting to Practice: Current Barriers to Pharmacogenomic Testing
30:38- Closing Remarks
Host
Geoff Wall, PharmD, BCPS, FCCP, CGP
Professor of Pharmacy Practice, Drake University
Internal Medicine/Critical Care, UnityPoint Health
References and Resources
A 12-gene pharmacogenetic panel to prevent adverse drug reactions: an open-label, multicentre, controlled, cluster-randomised crossover implementation study.
Clinical Pharmacogenomics Implementation Consortium.
Redeem your CPE here
CPE (Pharmacist)
Get a membership & earn CE for GameChangers Podcast episodes (30 mins/episode)
Pharmacists: Get a membership
CE Information
Learning Objectives
Upon successful completion of this knowledge-based activity, participants should be able to:
1. Describe current barriers to routine use of pharmacogenomic testing
2. Discuss issues and results of the Swen et al study on pharmacogenomics
0.05 CEU/0.5 Hr
UAN: 0107-0000-23-118-H01-P
Initial release date: 03/20/2023
Expiration date: 03/20/2024
Additional CPE and CME details can be found here.

Follow CEimpact on Social Media:
LinkedIn
Instagram

Next Episode

The Updated AAAAI Guidelines on Drug Allergies

The Updated AAAAI Guidelines on Drug Allergies
Drug allergies are a common challenge for all prescribers, patients, and pharmacies. They are associated with increased costs, adverse effects, and extended hospitalizations. Join host Geoff Wall as he reviews the newly released AAAI guidelines on drug allergies.
The GameChanger
Over 90% of patients claiming a penicillin allergy are not allergic. Sulfamethoxazole desensitization is largely not needed. A thorough evaluation of patient allergies with testing may help establish true allergies in patients and help optimize pharmacotherapy.
Show Segments
00:00 - Introductions
01:55 - Changes in Classifications
07:35 - The GameChanger: Beta-Lactam Allergy Approach
21:05 - Sulfonamide Allergy Approach
27:04 - Non-Steroidal Allergy Approach
30:05 - Connecting to Practice: Applying these Changes
30:58 - Closing Remarks
Host
Geoff Wall, PharmD, BCPS, FCCP, CGP
Professor of Pharmacy Practice, Drake University
Internal Medicine/Critical Care, UnityPoint Health
References and Resources
A 2022 practice parameter update.
Redeem your CPE here
CPE (Pharmacist)
Get a membership & earn CE for GameChangers Podcast episodes (30 mins/episode)
Pharmacists: Get a membership
CE Information
Learning Objectives
Upon successful completion of this knowledge-based activity, participants should be able to:
1. Discuss approaches to a patient with a claimed penicillin allergy who requires a beta lactam
2. Discuss the protocol for desensitization for a sulfonamide allergic patient when a sulfonamide is required
0.05 CEU/0.5 Hr
UAN: 0107-0000-23-133-H01-P
Initial release date: 04/03/2023
Expiration date: 04/03/2024
Additional CPE details can be found here.