Internal medicine journal
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Internal medicine journal · Sep 2023
Provision of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion to type 1 diabetes 'frequent flyers'.
A few people with type 1 diabetes undergo multiple hospital admissions for acute glycaemic events. We report on a series of five such 'frequent flyers' who were provided with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) therapy. ⋯ Total insulin dose and body mass index decreased in some patients and satisfaction was anecdotally higher. Some, but not all, 'frequent flyers' benefited from a trial of CSII.
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Internal medicine journal · Sep 2023
Supporting home-based meal preparation improves lunchtime habits and self-assessed work performance of interns at a tertiary hospital.
There is ample evidence that doctors frequently miss meals at work, which negatively impacts concentration, decision-making and overall patient care. Junior doctors are particularly vulnerable given their heavy workload. We report on the impact of a pilot programme supporting home-based meal preparation on the dietary habits and energy levels of interns at a tertiary hospital and demonstrate this is one strategy healthcare organisations can adopt to promote a healthier workforce.
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Internal medicine journal · Sep 2023
Role of communication in successful outpatient attendance in a New Zealand hospital: a qualitative study.
There are significant implications for both patients and providers when patients do not attend outpatient specialist appointments. Nonattendance has an impact on the efficiency of health care, provider resources and patient health outcomes. ⋯ We recommend that a patient-oriented approach to communication should be implemented, and alternative methods of communication should be explored.
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Internal medicine journal · Sep 2023
The unique COVID-19 experience in Western Australia: lessons learnt.
Western Australia (WA) was in a unique position to experience coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in a highly vaccinated and geographically isolated population. ⋯ COVID-19 case numbers following WA state border opening were of lower care acuity and disease severity than predicted. Two-thirds of admissions were for other primary diagnoses, with incidental COVID detection. Hospital admissions were overrepresented by partially or unvaccinated patients and by ATSI Australians. An increase in social support along with general and geriatric medicine speciality input were required to treat hospitalised COVID-19 cases in the WA Omicron wave.
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Internal medicine journal · Sep 2023
Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia Australasian consensus practice statement.
Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is the most common haematological malignancy in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ). Considerable changes to diagnostic and management algorithms have occurred within the last decade. The availability of next-generation sequencing and measurable residual disease assessment by flow cytometry allow for advanced prognostication and response assessments. ⋯ Recommendations regarding appropriate supportive management continue to evolve, and special considerations are required for patients with CLL with respect to the global SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. The unique funding and treatment environments in Australasia highlight the need for specific local guidance with respect to the investigation and management of CLL. This consensus practice statement was developed by a broadly representative group of ANZ experts in CLL with endorsement by peak haematology bodies, with a view to providing this standardised guidance.