Wiener klinische Wochenschrift
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Wien. Klin. Wochenschr. · Jul 2010
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter StudyThe impact of oral health and 0.2% chlorhexidine oral gel on the prevalence of nosocomial infections in surgical intensive-care patients: a randomized placebo-controlled study.
To evaluate the impact of oral health on the evolution of nosocomial infections and to document the effects of oral antiseptic decontamination on oral health and on the rate of nosocomial infections in patients in a surgical intensive-care unit (ICU). ⋯ Among surgical ICU patients, poor oral health had a significant positive correlation with bacterial colonization and the evolution of nosocomial infections. Oral decontamination with chlorhexidine significantly decreased oropharyngeal colonization, the incidence of nosocomial infections, length of ICU stay, and mortality in these patients.
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Worldwide, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional death and the leading cause of cardiovascular failure for children [1-3]. The number of near-drownings, where the incident is survived for at least 24 hours, is assumed to be four times as high [5]. In the years 1994 until 2008 there were 44 cases of drowning treated at the children's department of the University of Leipzig. This number shows that even in a medical centre drowning incidents are only occasional incidents. Therefore it is important to know the sequelae and handlings to be able to react in case of an emergency. ⋯ The risk of suffering a drowning incident is highest for boys aged 1-3 years, playing in the yard by themselves. Prognosis is depending on multiple factors and especially the circumstances of the accident. High influence is seen in the time of submersion and the need for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Clinics and laboratory values at the time of hospital admittance may hint to the outcome. Basic life support at the scene of the accident has the highest impact on the outcome. Training of parents and supervisors in prevention and first aid after drowning incidents can avoid accidents.
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Wien. Klin. Wochenschr. · Jul 2010
Post-mortal bereavement of family caregivers in Germany: a prospective interview-based investigation.
Care aspects of outpatient palliative-care teams involve the medical, psychological, and spiritual needs of patients and their caregivers. The objective of our study was to examine the post-mortal bereavement of family caregivers. ⋯ The results of the study suggest that care from a specialized palliative-care team providing psychological and social support may reduce the risk of complicated grief. Careful exploration of possible risk factors for complicated grief is important for optimal care. Our study shows that healthcare providers play an important role in helping family caregivers to manage the multiple burdens and the grieving reaction. Family-focused grief therapy may prevent complicated grieving reactions.