Irish journal of medical science
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Observational Study
The DA VINCI study: is Ireland achieving ESC/EAS guideline-directed LDL-C goals?
The EU-wide, cross-sectional observational study of lipid-lowering therapy (LLT) use in secondary and primary care (DA VINCI) assessed the proportion of patients achieving low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) goals recommended by the European Society of Cardiology (ESC)/European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS) guidelines and provided an insight into regional use of LLT in Europe, including Ireland. ⋯ These results highlight the disparity between dyslipidaemia management in clinical practice in Ireland and guideline recommendations.
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Contradictory opinions exist regarding the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) in patients with hypertension, which is the most common comorbidity associated with COVID-19. Herein, the effects of ACEIs and ARBs on outcomes of COVID-19 patients were evaluated. ⋯ ACEI/ARB drugs put COVID-19 patients at high risk for moderate to severe forms of COVID-19 and higher length of hospital stay. Although, it is notable that these drugs did not significantly affect specific adverse outcomes of COVID-19, such as the need for admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), length of ICU stay, ventilation, and mortality.
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Observational Study
Adherence to secondary prevention recommendations after coronary artery bypass graft surgery.
This study was undertaken to assess and evaluate adherence to secondary prevention recommendations and risk factor modifications among a patient cohort at a single-tertiary centre in Ireland, following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). ⋯ In this patient population, adherence to medication and control of risk factors is acceptable. However, there is room for improvement in terms of attendance at cardiac rehab (59%) and maintenance of a healthy lifestyle post-CABG.
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Hospital-based healthcare workers have experienced significant psychological stressors during the COVID-19 pandemic. ⋯ Dublin hospital workers reported high levels of PTSD symptoms, mood disturbance, and moral injury during the COVID-19 pandemic. Concerning levels of suicidal ideation and planning existed in this cohort. Differences in degrees of post-traumatic stress, moral injury, and wellbeing were found between profession groups, which should be considered when planning any supports.
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The chronic nature of multiple sclerosis (MS) affects patient's activities of daily living (ADL) and quality of life (QOL). Nursing interventions based on patients' active participation in goal-setting can be beneficial in improving ADL and QOL. ⋯ Given the results, TGA could effectively promote mutual goal attainment, QOL, and IADL for PwMS during the COVID-19 pandemic.