Postgraduate medical journal
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Pus samples for microbiological examination are routinely sent after incision and drainage of abscesses. There is no evidence that microbiology reports influence treatment for non-perineal cutaneous abscesses. ⋯ The bacteria present in non-perineal cutaneous abscesses are, for the most part, predictable. However, a significant number grow less common organisms. It is concluded that pus specimens should be sent routinely for culture and sensitivity and there should be further emphasis on following up microbiology reports by junior medical staff.
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A review of patient confidentiality issues was commissioned and its findings published as the Caldicott Report in December 1997. It made 16 recommendations and formulated six principals. ⋯ Data Protection Act 1998, Human Rights Act 1998, Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998, Audit Commission Act 1998, Terrorism Act 2000, section 60 of the Health and Social Care Act 2001 and Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000, and by 2005 The Freedom of Information Act 2000 will become law and affect the NHS. Consequently it can be seen that the role and responsibility of Caldicott guardians has grown significantly into what is now known as information governance.