Irish journal of medical science
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Long Covid (LC) is the continuation or development of new symptoms after initial COVID-19 infection. Little is known about General Practitioners' (GP) experience of managing patients with LC. ⋯ There was a lack of confidence in the diagnosis and management of LC, and in the interface with secondary care. There is demand for educational interventions to assist GPs with their care of patients with this emerging condition.
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The General Medical Council (GMC) has made it mandatory to have a chaperone present during intimate examinations, including breast exams, highlighting the importance of medicolegal protection for both patients and clinicians. ⋯ This study emphasizes the vital role of chaperones in clinical practice, urging a precise definition and targeted resolution for implementation challenges. Patient preferences highlight the need for a personalized approach, and increased awareness among healthcare professionals is essential.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Effects of early mobilization in elderly patients undergoing cardiac surgery.
Although early mobilization is associated with improved outcomes in postoperative cardiac patients, implementation of early mobilization in elderly patients is still a challenge. ⋯ Our study's findings suggest that early mobilization and functional exercises enhanced balance, functionality, and life quality for older cardiac patients.
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The iRefer guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations on imaging and are designed to facilitate appropriate referrals and limit unnecessary radiation exposure. In 2017, a review at this institution assessed the appropriateness of imaging referrals. This study provides an update 5 years later on the referral appropriateness and aims to assess what impact the previous review has had on referral appropriateness. ⋯ The volume of radiograph requests reduced after over a 5-year interval; however, the relative proportion of inappropriate requests rose significantly. The iRefer guidelines provide a useful resource to ensure that imaging is used appropriately, effectively, and safely; however, more work is needed to ensure that requests are adhering to these guidelines.
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Frailty is a risk factor for presentation to the ED, in-hospital mortality, prolonged hospital stays and functional decline at discharge. Profiling the prevalence and level of frailty within the acute hospital setting is vital to ensure evidence-based practice and service development within the construct of frailty. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to establish the prevalence of frailty and co-morbidities among older adults in an acute hospital setting. ⋯ There is a high prevalence of frailty and co-morbidity among older adults who present to the ED and require inpatient care. This may contribute to increased waiting times, lengths of stay, and the need for specialist intervention. With an increased focus on the integration of care for older adults across care transitions, there is a clear need for expansion of frailty-based services, staff training in frailty care and multidisciplinary team resources across the hospital and community setting.