The Medical journal of Australia
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To examine the nature and extent of ambulance attendances involving gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and to compare these with heroin-related attendances in Melbourne, Victoria. ⋯ Ambulance attendance data can be used to index GHB-associated harms. The clear increases in GHB-related ambulance attendances over time highlights the need for further research on how best to respond to this emergent drug-related harm.
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Multicenter Study
Impact of an ultrabroadband emergency department telemedicine system on the care of acutely ill patients and clinicians' work.
To evaluate whether introduction of an emergency department (ED) telemedicine system changed patient management and outcome indicators and to investigate clinicians' perceptions of the impact of the system on care provided and on their work. ⋯ The ViCCU appears most effective for moderate trauma patients, with associated reductions in admissions and transfers. Large-scale trials of telemedicine systems that include measurements of both patient care and impact on clinicians' work are required.
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Comparative Study
What can alert the general practitioner to people whose common mental health problems are unrecognised?
To assess the characteristics of people with common mental health problems who are recognised by their general practitioner, and those who are not. ⋯ Low rates of recognition of psychological problems by GPs, and infrequent treatment for those presenting with somatic symptoms, indicate a need for building GPs skills in the assessment and management of somatisation. The SPHERE-12 may be a useful screening tool for primary care if followed by further questioning and other methods to assess diagnosis and severity to target appropriate treatment.
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To create a taxonomy of distress and depression for use in primary care, that mirrors the thinking and practice of experienced general practitioners. ⋯ This simple and parsimonious taxonomy has validity based on its derivation from within the primary care setting.