Irish journal of medical science
-
Observational Study
An audit of drug shortages in a community pharmacy practice.
There are no firm data on drug shortages in Irish community pharmacy. This prospective observational study aimed to characterise the drug shortage problem in an Irish community pharmacy. ⋯ This study highlights the drug shortage problem in an Irish community pharmacy. We propose that enhanced communication between all stakeholders is the most worthwhile solution. Further studies are needed.
-
Active surveillance (AS) is a recognised treatment option for low-risk prostate cancer (PCa). ⋯ Urologists not adhering to an AS protocol or participating in a clinical trial appear to apply less rigorous criteria for both eligibility and monitoring in AS.
-
Self-reported concussion rates among U-20 and elite rugby union players in Ireland are 45-48%. Half of these injuries go unreported. Accurate knowledge of concussion signs and symptoms and appropriate management practices among coaches and medical staff is important to improve the welfare of players. ⋯ Overall, the coaches in this investigation have accurate knowledge of concussion and medical staff use effective techniques for managing this injury. On-going education is needed to assist coaches in identifying concussion signs and symptoms. It is recommended that medical staff increase their reliance on objective methods for assessment and return-to-play decision making.
-
Inferior vena cava filter insertion and retrieval patterns in a tertiary referral centre in Ireland.
Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are widely used in clinical practice to prevent large, clinically significant pulmonary emboli. Modern filters are designed to be retrievable within a specific time window; however, many become lost to follow-up. ⋯ Inferior vena cava filter insertion and retrieval patterns in our centre were comparable to trends reported internationally with scope for improvement in terms of filter retrieval rates and minimising filter dwell time. Particular vigilance is required in younger patients where the indication for filter insertion was prophylactic.
-
The traditional model for emergency surgical care consists of an on-call team providing service to the emergency department, while simultaneously balancing the demands of elective work. Various newer models, such as the "surgeon of the week" aim to reduce the conflict between elective and emergency duties. Despite the recent focus on newer models, there remains no data on the effectiveness of the traditional model. We aim to assess the efficacy of the traditional model in a large regional hospital. ⋯ Newer models of acute surgical care have desirable outcomes in consultation times. However, regional and economical implications have a substantial impact on which model is feasible at local levels. We demonstrated that the traditional model still remains effective in a large sized tertiary referral unit.