Clin Med
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Morbidity and mortality for any physical illness treated in hospital and complicated by dementia is increased. Length of stay is also prolonged for any physical illness and dementia. ⋯ Enhanced communication with patients and carers, more attention to hydration and nutrition and improved environmental factors within the hospital would be a start. All NHS staff require an increased insight and training about the consequences of physical illness complicated with dementia.
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There have been huge advances in endocrine care as a consequence of improved biochemistry and diagnostic techniques as well as improved imaging. Specialist transethmoidal endoscopic surgery has improved results in pituitary tumour patients and minimally invasive parathyroid surgery has had the same consequence in patients with parathyroid disease. Multidisciplinary teams have improved outcomes in a number of areas and, as described above, endocrinologists are dealing with more in the way of endocrine disease to expand boundaries. Much work remains to be done particularly concerning the care of children and adults with late endocrine effects of cancer treatment and obesity.
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Over half a century ago, a Canadian judge defined a profession in a way that resonates still today, not only for lawyers and doctors, but for the current wide variety of professions and professionals. This article is a reflection on this definition. It briefly considers the historical context within which the knowledge base that characterises a profession evolved and what the various component parts of the judge's definition entail. A final consideration goes beyond the terms of the definition proposed--that of our ethical responsibility as professionals to stand up and be counted and, in the context of the disorder around us, to speak out.
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The medical humanities attempt to emphasise the subjective experience of patients within the objective and scientific world of medicine. This article argues that the goal of medical humanities can be furthered by literature. Autobiographical accounts are used to illustrate the various ways in which literature can influence and enrich medical practice.