Annals of palliative medicine
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Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) stimulation has been safely and effectively applied for controlling various types of pain. Here, we aimed to systematically review the literature pertaining to the efficacy of PRF stimulation for managing pain associated with spinal disorders. We conducted a PubMed search for papers published until August 20, 2019, that used PRF to treat pain resulting from spinal disorders. ⋯ Nevertheless, there is insufficient evidence for the efficacy of PRF stimulation in these disorders. In conclusion, our review provides insights into the degree of evidence available on the effectiveness of PRF stimulation for treating pain associated with each of the spinal disorders reviewed. This information will help clinicians make informed decisions on using PRF stimulation to treat various spinal conditions and manage the associated pain.
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Observational Study
Modified rehabilitation exercises for mild cases of COVID-19.
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by a new Betacoronavirus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is currently a global pandemic. Gathered clinicopathological evidence in COVID-19 patients shows that alveoli injuries and interstitial changes are the major mechanisms of impaired O2/CO2 exchange. Few rehabilitation exercises concerning COVID-19 patients were reported. Here, we present a modified version of rehabilitation exercises based on the underlying mechanism of the disease to mild cases of COVID-19. These exercises aimed to improve the pulmonary function of patients and ease the expectoration process. Additionally, an essential branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) named acupressure was integrated into the exercises to facilitate the recovery and maintenance of pulmonary function. ⋯ The modified rehabilitation exercises were retrieved from the Eight-Section Brocade, and are specifically designed for rehabilitation of COVID-19 patients at home or health facilities. Based on current findings on pronouncedly improved remission rate in respiratory symptoms, we recommend the MRE as suitable rehabilitation exercise to smooth respiration and ease the expectoration process in mild COVID-19 cases.
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Since sepsis-3 definition is more accurate and sensitive than previous sepsis definition, implementation the newest diagnosis criteria could definitely bring more benefit to sepsis patients. This study was done to identify the level of current intensivists' knowledge regarding the third international consensus definitions for sepsis and septic shock and its implementation for the diagnosis of sepsis among Chinese adult intensive care units (ICUs). ⋯ In current China, the sepsis-3 definition is well understood and accepted by intensivists.
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Early palliative care referral for patients with advanced cancer has demonstrable benefits but is underutilized. We sought to characterize medical oncologists' perceptions about palliative care referral in their clinical practices. ⋯ Medical oncologists are hesitant to adopt the practice of early palliative care referral because they are concerned that other physicians may disrupt a patient's treatment plan. Physician-centered barriers may delay integration of palliative care, and future efforts to promote a collaborative approach to advanced care planning may improve patient-centered outcomes through access to early palliative care.
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The mortality of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) remains high, and mechanical ventilation (MV) is an essential means of treatment. During MV, people realize the benefits of spontaneous breathing and the disadvantages of uncontrolled spontaneous breathing. Current methods of monitoring spontaneous breathing include oesophageal manometry, P0.1, and diaphragm function monitoring. ⋯ The driving pressure is a new indicator that reflects the strain of the lung, which indicates the volumetric injury of the lung and is independently associated with mortality in ARDS patients. Moreover, in recent studies, driving pressure monitoring has been shown to be feasible in assisted support ventilation. This review summarizes the current state of spontaneous breathing and examines whether it is convenient to monitor driving pressure during spontaneous breathing to achieve lung protection ventilation.