Irish journal of medical science
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Comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) is recommended by international guidelines prior to initiation of systemic anti-cancer treatment (SACT). In practice, CGA is limited by time constraints, lack of resources and expert interpretation. ⋯ Our study has several limitations but suggests that the majority of older adults with cancer would qualify for formal CGA assessment. The risk of high-grade toxicity from SACT is substantial in this cohort. Chronological age was not found to negatively impact pts' frailty, cognition, or risk of toxicity.
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The prevalence of age-related hearing loss (ARHL) significantly increases in people aged 60 and older. Medical errors are frequently reported because of communication breakdown, especially for patients with ARHL. ⋯ Effective clinical communication can be achieved through a clear understanding of the patient's perspective. Healthcare providers should be made aware of the hearing issues and associated communication difficulties posed, within the context of the development of patient-centred strategies to improve patient safety.
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The study investigates the diagnostic and prognostic value of C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) in patients with sepsis and septic shock. ⋯ PCT was a reliable diagnostic tool for the diagnosis of septic shock compared to CRP. Both CRP and PCT were shown to have poor predictive value with regard to 30-day all-cause mortality and were not associated with the risk of all-cause mortality in patients admitted with sepsis or septic shock.
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We aimed to explore maternal and paternal risk factors with risk of congenital heart disease in infants. ⋯ We found that age, number of pregnancies, SBP, DBP, and BMI are maternal risk factors for CHD infants. And age, smoking, drinking, and BMI are paternal risk factors for CHD infants.