Irish journal of medical science
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The correlation between 6-min walk test and respiratory parameters in children with cystic fibrosis.
The 6-min walk test (6MWT) is a sub-maximal exercise test and has been widely used for evaluating of exercise capacity of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) in recent years. Few studies have examined the relationship between 6MWT and parameters used to assess the severity of the disease in children with CF. In this study, we have examined this relationship to find out if 6MWT can be a marker of the severity of cystic fibrosis. ⋯ 6MWT can be applied beside spirometry and chest CT for CF patients follow up.
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Standardised ward treatment rooms have the potential to improve efficiency in performing routine tasks. Our aim was to produce a standardised layout for commonly used equipment using a Lean approach. ⋯ This study demonstrates improved efficiency with a time saving of over 1 min for a very commonly performed ward-based task. Ward-based staff reported reduced frustration and less interruptions following the standardisation and optimisation of treatment room layouts.
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The HSE "Vision for change", national service plan and other policies emphasise the importance of incorporating the views of service users and carers in the design and delivery of mental health services. ⋯ Involving POLL patients in audit provided useful insights to improve the quality of service. We resolved the issue of disabled parking access and have developed a service information leaflet and a discharge leaflet. We intend to focus more on psychoeducation and discharge planning based on the results of the current cycle.
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Health literacy is considered a social determinant of population health, but also relates to making informed health decisions. Little information is available on the oral health literacy (OHL) among young adults, and this is crucial to inform targeted interventions on oral health and care. ⋯ Approximately, one-in-four third-level university students in Cork City have adequate OHL which is lower compared to the general Irish population but still significantly high in specific groups.