The European journal of general practice
-
The pulse oximeter is a vital piece of equipment in secondary care for the non-invasive monitoring of oxygen saturation. With the increasing affordability of the oximeter and recognition of its clinical applications, there is an increasing interest in its role in primary care. ⋯ In this article, a selection of studies is presented looking into its clinical use and limitations. The role and potential of the oximeter as a screening tool and aid in the assessment of hypoxia in a variety of clinical situations in primary care is discussed.
-
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
Assessing chronic pain in general practice: are guidelines relevant? A cluster randomized controlled trial.
To evaluate the impact of using pain assessment scales on the management of musculoskeletal chronic pain. ⋯ In general practice, the use of pain assessment scales is not associated with greater pain relief. The lesser level of pain relief obtained in the scale group does provide evidence that using pain assessment scales does not enhance the relief of chronic pain in patients in primary care. Guidelines which recommend the systematic use of scales for the assessment and monitoring of chronic pain are not tailored to either the context or the patients encountered in the primary care setting.
-
To monitor the future career preferences of medical students throughout their undergraduate years and into their postgraduate career, and to evaluate which factors may influence career choice intentions, and when this happens, over time. ⋯ As medical undergraduates progressed through the curriculum and became PRHOs, general practice became more popular as a career choice, particularly with females. This may be partly explained by the increased exposure to general practitioners and patients in the new community-based teaching programme and the increasing awareness of lifestyle advantages with the particular benefits of more regular hours and working part time.
-
To assess the level of care given to people with diabetes by general practitioners and factors affecting it. ⋯ Diabetes Mellitus is treated to a good standard in Irish general practice, especially type 2 disease. This standard appears to be independent of the patient's socio-economic status, is improved by GPs being computerised, in group practices and by providing care according to a protocol. Shared care also improves control. Employing a practice nurse may also improve care.