Irish journal of medical science
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The Covid-19 pandemic poses significant challenges for the management of patients with cancer. In our institution, we adapted our delivery of outpatient systemic anti-cancer therapy (SACT) by introducing a number of 'risk-reducing' measures including pre-assessment screening. ⋯ Though patients on active treatment for cancer during the Covid-19 pandemic reported increased anxiety and feelings of isolation due to Covid-19, the majority of patients wanted to continue SACT as originally planned. Patients would benefit from enhanced psycho-oncological supports in the event of a prolonged Covid-19 pandemic.
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Diagnosing the aetiology of interstitial lung disease (ILD) may require histology via a surgical lung biopsy (SLB). SLB is associated with significant complications. Transbronchial lung cryobiopsy (TBLC) can provide large, adequate biopsies with fewer complications offering a potential alternative to SLB. ⋯ TBLC aids the diagnosis of ILD in the appropriate patient and may be an acceptable alternative to SLB with fewer complications. Further work on standardizing the procedure is required.
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This study examines Irish undergraduate students' behaviours and motives regarding alcohol consumption. The study explores both levels and patterns of consumption. ⋯ Given the high rates of hazardous drinking, the development of an alcohol intervention may be justified, given the high response rates to peer-screening, a peer-led intervention for alcohol-related harms may yield positive results.
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Maternal obesity is a significant risk factor for unfavourable outcomes during pregnancy. However, the extent of this relationship is poorly defined in Irish mothers. ⋯ This study highlights the magnitude of obstetric risks that are associated with maternal obesity within Irish population. Implementation of effective intervention strategies to reduce the number of obese women in pregnancy may have beneficial effects on pregnancy outcomes in Ireland.
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The impact of a change in service delivery in a psychogeriatric service, moving from a consultation model to liaison model of care, was examined in a naturalistic study. ⋯ The results of the present study suggest improved outcomes for patients and improved satisfaction in the clinical teams. Further clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness studies are needed.