The European journal of general practice
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To evaluate the ability of elbow extension, with the patient in a supine position, as a diagnostic test of an insignificant injury, with the purpose of avoiding unnecessary radiographs. ⋯ Elbow extension as a diagnostic test in a primary care setting can predict severe elbow injuries and can be safely used in practices with no radiology facilities.
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The national health service in the Republic of Ireland is one of a number of European health services currently undergoing significant reform. Out-of-hours primary care has been at the forefront of this process of change, and although patients appear satisfied, the complexity of their response to changes in out-of-hours care has not been fully explored. ⋯ Patients hold a range of views that suggests the complexity around patient satisfaction with out-of-hours care. A qualitative methodological approach can compliment current approaches to the evaluation of patient satisfaction, facilitating the exploration of the full range of patients' views and experiences.
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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.