Take a look back at the first half of 2010 by examining the stories that physician assistants found most popular. These 10 articles were the most viewed stories so far this year on JAAPA.com. Enjoy.

How to approach the physical examination of a shoulder injury

Rob Powers, MEd, PA-C, ATC
 March 02, 2010

Key factors from the history help with establishing a differential diagnosis and selecting proper tests for assessing a shoulder injury.
 

Cardiac auscultation 101: A basic science approach to diagnosing heart murmurs

Christopher Hanifin, PA-C April 06, 2010

Applying the basics of anatomy and physiology to where and when heart sounds are heard best is key to successful cardiac auscultation.
 

On target with Lyme disease: Understanding vector-borne infections

Danielle Kruger, BS, MS, RPA-C May 03, 2010

Most infections are cured with antibiotic therapy; however, PAs should be alert for symptoms of persistent disease.
 

Indications and strategy for surgical repair of thoracic aortic aneurysms

Debra Kleinschmidt, PhD, PA; Konstadinos Plestis, MD; Panagiotis Housits, MD February 02, 2010

Rupture of an aortic aneurysm is most often fatal, but a systematic approach to surgical repair can achieve a good outcome.
 

Elder preventive medicine: Immunization and screening for adults older than 65 years

Freddi Segal-Gidan, PA-C, PhD January 05, 2010

Preventive medicine in the elderly can reduce disease-specific morbidity, decrease disability, and improve quality of remaining life.
 

Use of mild therapeutic hypothermia to treat cardiac arrest

Bau P. Tran, PA-C, PharmD, MMS; Courtney V. McGuire, PA-C; Marie A. Maloney, MS, PA-C March 01, 2010

Induced hypothermia, used to prevent brain ischemia during cardiac surgery, can also effectively treat out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.
 

What is the best way to manage this severe rash?

Joe R. Monroe, PA-C, MPAS January 08, 2010

This common skin disorder can be managed with simple hygiene practices and OTC products. Parental education is the most valuable tool.
 

Diagnosis and surgical treatment of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH)

Michelle Johnson, MSBS, PA-C; Karen Graham, MPAS, PA-C May 04, 2010

NPH is characterized by symptoms common in the elderly. Correct patient selection for shunt surgery can lead to a good outcome.
 

Tobacco dependence: How should a busy clinician intervene?

Jean Covino, DHSc, MPA, PA-C February 01, 2010

A combination of brief counseling and appropriate pharmacotherapy produces the most promising outcomes for patients willing to quit.
 

A very abnormal ECG in a relatively healthy person

Rami N. Khouzam, MD, FACC, FACP, FASNC February 23, 2010

An ECG obtained during the routine physical of a healthy, active man indicates serious heart disease.