Common procedures in internal medicine: improving knowledge and minimizing complications.

ABSTRACT

Internal medicine physicians have long been trained with the skills, knowledge, and attitudes to become proficient at certain medical procedures. Specifically, the lumbar puncture, paracentesis, thoracentesis, and central venous catheter placement are common medical procedures encountered during residency. Despite recent changes that no longer require documented competency in procedure performance, many residents and their attending supervisors continue to perform these procedures on a regular basis. In private practice many internists care for patients requiring these procedures. This review will summarize basic steps followed in these 4 medical procedures and highlight methods to minimize associated complications.