Scot Med J
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To assess the prognostic value of neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, lymphocyte-monocyte ratio and red cell distribution width in type 2 diabetics with COVID-19. ⋯ NLR is a more powerful and practical marker for predicting the prognosis of type 2 diabetic COVID-19 patients that is simple and fast.
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Our departmental planning for COVID-19 was actioned a week before the lockdown (13th March 2020). We look at a 7- week lockdown activity for all scheduled outpatient clinics and urgent procedures. ⋯ Hospitals and urologists can benefit from the model used by our hospital to mitigate the impact and prioritise patients most in need of urgent care. Reorganisation and flexibility of healthcare delivery is paramount in these troubled times and will allow clinical activity without compromising patient safety.
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The unparalleled epidemic of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), during early December 2019 in Wuhan, China, has rapidly evolved into a global pandemic, became a matter of grave concern. The pandemic presented a unique challenge to government agencies worldwide. ⋯ This presents an extreme challenge for educators and, given the rapidly evolving situation, there have not yet been training authorities recommendations. We propose several innovative solutions to deliver medical education while maintaining the safety of residents and educators.
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An online teaching programme for Core Surgical Trainees (CSTs) was designed and delivered during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study is to assess the feasibility and the reception of a fully online teaching programme. ⋯ An entirely online teaching programme is feasible and well-received by CSTs. Trainees preferred live, interactive, procedure-based, consultant-led sessions lasting approximately thirty minutes to one hour and covering a myriad of surgical specialties. This feedback can be used to improve future online surgical teaching regionally and nationally in order to gain training opportunities lost during the pandemic.
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COVID-19 pandemic has predisposed patients undergoing surgery to post-operative infection and resultant complications. Appendicitis is frequently managed by appendicectomy. After the onset of the pandemic, selected cases of appendicitis were managed with antibiotics which is a recognised treatment option. Our objective was to compare the management of appendicitis and post-operative outcomes between pre- and post-COVID-19. ⋯ CT/MRI scan was preferred to laparoscopy in diagnosing appendicitis and conservative management of uncomplicated appendicitis was common practice after the onset of pandemic. Health boards can adapt their management of surgical conditions during pandemics without adverse short-term consequences. Long term follow-up of this cohort will identify patients suitable for conservative management.