Aust Fam Physician
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The single rod etonogestrel contraceptive implant is available in Australia as Implanon NXT. It is a highly effective, long-acting reversible contraceptive method, which is suitable for most women across the reproductive lifespan. ⋯ Contraceptive implant procedures are usually performed in the general practice setting. Clinicians can support women in making an informed choice to have an implant by providing information about their benefits, side effects and risks, and timely access to insertion. Training in the procedures and compliance with procedural instructions are essential to minimise risks, including deep insertion and damage to neurovascular structures.
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Vaccine hesitancy is a public health concern. The objectives of this article were to describe Australian parents' attitudes, behaviours and concerns about vaccination, determine the factors associated with vaccination non-compliance, and provide sources of vaccination information for general practitioners (GPs). ⋯ The 452 respondents were parents of children aged DISCUSSION: GPs have pivotal roles in addressing concerns regarding vaccination. Education and communication with parents will improve their knowledge and trust in vaccination, thereby improving vaccination compliance.
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Pharmaceuticals play an important role in modern day healthcare, and prescribing is a very common activity in Australian general practice. However, there are significant harms associated with medicine use. Vocational training is a critical period in the development of clinical practice patterns for the future general practitioner (GP), including prescribing behaviour. The general practice supervisor, therefore, has a key role to play in educating registrars about rational prescribing. ⋯ Teaching rational prescribing should take on a patient-centred focus and incorporate an approach to managing uncertainty. Role-modelling of quality prescribing and use of guidelines is a strong influence on registrar behaviour. Specific strategies include random case analysis, audit and feedback of prescribing practice, topic tutorials and use of specific prescribing resources.