Irish journal of medical science
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Reconfiguration of the Irish acute hospital sector resulted in the establishment of a Medical Assessment Unit (MAU) in Mallow General Hospital (MGH). We developed a protocol whereby certain patients deemed to be low risk for clinical deterioration could be brought by the National Ambulance Service (NAS) to the MAU following a 999 or 112 call. ⋯ Our results have demonstrated the safety, feasibility and effectiveness of this pathway. With increased resourcing, upscaling of this initiative is possible and should be considered.
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The widespread use of intraoperative fluoroscopy in orthopaedic procedures has revolutionised surgical practice. However, there are risks associated with using ionising radiation. Efforts to reduce radiation exposure include low-dose imaging protocols and lead protective equipment. Current communication during fluoroscopic procedures can be inefficient and lead to excessive radiation exposure for patients and staff. ⋯ Implementation of a standardised communication tool effectively reduced patient and staff radiation exposure. It was also believed to have a positive effect on theatre staff morale. Incorporating a universal language tool into training programmes could be beneficial. Surgeons and radiographers provided several suggestions to improve the effectiveness and implementation of this tool into other units.
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The prevalence of age-related hearing loss (ARHL) significantly increases in people aged 60 and older. Medical errors are frequently reported because of communication breakdown, especially for patients with ARHL. ⋯ Effective clinical communication can be achieved through a clear understanding of the patient's perspective. Healthcare providers should be made aware of the hearing issues and associated communication difficulties posed, within the context of the development of patient-centred strategies to improve patient safety.
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Doublecortin-like kinase 3 (DCLK3), a member of tubulin superfamily, has been proved to be closely associated with the pathogenesis of numerous human tumors. However, the expression pattern and regulatory mechanisms of DCLK3 in gastric cancer (GC) remain unknown. ⋯ Our research suggests that DCLK3 modulates the levels of iron and reactive oxygen and may involve regulation of TCF4 pathway, thereby promoting the GC cell growth, indicating that DCLK3 may use as a prognostic marker and therapeutic target for GC patients.
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Overweight and obesity epidemic is still expanding, and it is affecting women of childbearing age. Multiple studies have shown unmatched results concerning the effect of body mass index (BMI) besides gestational weight gain (GWG) on pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. This study aims to determine the effect of each of the two anthropometric indicators: pre-gestational BMI and gestational weight gain on the course of pregnancy, and neonatal outcomes. ⋯ Both extremes of BMI and GWG are linked to adverse neonatal outcomes. This highlights the importance of weight monitoring even during pregnancy to prevent its negative impact on neonates.