Irish journal of medical science
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COVID-19 required rapid innovation in health systems, in the context of an infection which placed healthcare professionals at high risk; general practice has been a key component of that innovative response. In Ireland, GPs were asked to work in a network of community assessment hubs. A focused training programme in infection control procedures/clinical use of personal protective equipment (PPE) was rapidly developed in advance. University departments of general practice were asked to develop and deliver that training. ⋯ Academic departments, GPs and the Irish health system collaborated effectively to respond to the need for community assessment of COVID-19 patients.
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The main barrier for an appropriate primary management of the reproductive health was lack of knowledge about the risk factors and prevention measures for infertility and the main recommendations was to involve primary care physicians in reproductive health. ⋯ These recommendations could set the basis for a public health action plan for primary management of reproductive health. The findings may be applicable to any country whose health services system provides primary healthcare.
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During the initial assessment of trauma patients, the severity of injury is very often not immediately recognizable. In trauma centers, a total body CT (TBCT) scan is routinely used to evaluate this kind of patients, even if it is burdened with health risk, economical costs, and logistical difficulties. ⋯ VIBS can safely rule out severe thoracic or abdominal injuries. This approach could limit the use of TBCT in one-fifth of suspected major trauma patients.
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Caregiving demands contribute to both psychological and physical health of caregivers. Physical workload (PW) can be an important cause of musculoskeletal disorders in caregivers of children with cerebral palsy (CP). ⋯ Caregivers of a child having an ID and walking disability had higher PW. These caregivers had more problems related to musculoskeletal disorders, higher depressive symptoms, and lower HRQOL. Higher PW was associated with lower level of gross motor function of child and older age, higher body mass index, higher level of lower extremity disfunction and low back pain disability, and lower HRQOL of caregivers.
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It is increasingly recognised that older patients may not present with typical symptoms of COVID-19. ⋯ Older patients with atypical presentation of COVID-19 in the community are equally susceptible to poor outcomes. Early detection may improve outcomes and limit community transmission. Primary care practitioners should be vigilant and consider prompt onward referral.