British journal of nursing (Mark Allen Publishing)
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Abusive head trauma (AHT) describes an injury to the head caused by a deliberate impact or shaking by a parent or carer. It can cause significant morbidity and mortality in infants, and is most commonly seen in those aged under 2 years. The initial presentation of AHT can include vague symptoms and the correct diagnosis may be missed by health professionals. ⋯ This article highlights different aspects of the clinical presentation of AHT and its management. Safeguarding and recognising child abuse is vital and requires every member of the multidisciplinary team to remain vigilant. An illustrative case study is included to highlight some of the challenges that health professionals working in different clinical set-ups are likely to come across while managing an infant with AHT.
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John Tingle, Reader in Health Law at Nottingham Trent University, discusses a recent report by the Medical Protection Society on the need to control the costs of clinical negligence litigation.
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Healthcare-associated infections (HAI) are one cause of preventable harm to patients, and are a clinical, political and economic concern. Vascular access, via a peripheral or central vascular device, is a routine experience for most patients receiving hospital care and is increasingly commonplace in health care at home. Because it is so common, ensuring safe vascular access is an essential focus for all health professionals. ⋯ Many of these risks are well known and include issues such as infiltration, extravasation, phlebitis and pain. Of particular importance is the relationship between intravenous (IV) therapy and infection and how best to prevent HAI, specifically in relation to IV therapy, bloodstream infections, catheter-related bloodstream infections and central-line associated blood stream infections. This article considers the interrelationship between IV therapy bloodstream infections and measures to prevent HAI and summarises key principles in this ongoing endeavour.
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John Tingle, Reader in Health Law at Nottingham Trent University, discusses a recent report by the Care Quality Commission that showcases eight NHS trusts that have improved their patient safety and healthcare quality.