Internal medicine journal
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Internal medicine journal · Nov 2021
Review Meta AnalysisA systematic review and meta-analysis of the characteristics and outcomes of readmitted COVID-19 survivors.
The objective of the present study is to investigate the incidence, characteristics and outcomes of patients who were readmitted to hospital emergency departments or required re-hospitalisation following an index hospitalisation with a diagnosis of COVID-19. A systematic review of PubMed, EMBASE and pre-print websites was conducted between 1 January and 31 December 2020. Studies reporting on the incidence, characteristics and outcomes of patients with COVID-19 who represent or require hospital admission were included. ⋯ Intensive care admission rates were similar between the two groups; 12.8% (22/172) of readmitted patients died. In summary, readmitted patients following an index hospitalisation for COVID-19 were more commonly males with multiple comorbidities. Shorter initial hospital LOS and unresolved primary illness may have contributed to readmission.
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Internal medicine journal · Nov 2021
Randomized Controlled TrialComparison of High-Flow and Conventional Nasal Cannula Oxygen in Patients Undergoing Endobronchial Ultrasonography.
Oxygen therapy is required to prevent hypoxaemia during the endobronchial ultrasonography (EBUS) procedure. ⋯ Oxygen therapy delivered by HFNC seems to be safer and more effective than by CNC in patients undergoing EBUS. Oxygen therapy with HFNC may be considered as an alternative to CNC because it may increase patient comfort and thereby improve compliance.
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Internal medicine journal · Nov 2021
ReviewHelicobacter pylori antimicrobial resistance in Melbourne, Australia. Time to review therapeutic guidelines?
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Helicobacter pylori is a global concern. The AMR data to inform the Australian Therapeutic Guidelines are based on data over 20 years old. ⋯ Definitive conclusions from this cohort cannot be made, but trends suggest rising levels of primary H. pylori AMR rates in Australia. This has important implications for empirical treatment decision making and treatment outcomes. Primary H. pylori AMR requires dedicated studies and current Australian therapeutic guideline recommendations may require re-evaluation. We propose considerations for improving the management of H. pylori in Australia. A centralised public health approach to H. pylori AMR surveillance should be established.
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Internal medicine journal · Nov 2021
"Iatrogenic Medication Errors reported to the Victorian Poisons Information Centre".
Iatrogenic medication errors are a cause of medical morbidity and mortality. They result in significant cost to the Australian healthcare system each year. There is limited Australian evidence describing the iatrogenic errors occurring within the hospital system. ⋯ Iatrogenic errors are occurring in the Victorian health care system. These errors can result in serious morbidity. Identification of causative factors and investment in preventative strategies will likely reduce associated morbidity and healthcare costs.