Irish journal of medical science
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The incidence of hip fractures is expected to increase over the coming years, placing a greater burden on limited resources. A high volume of patients is brought to hospitals that do not have the resources necessary to provide definitive care. Optimal care involves a coordinated and integrated system of trauma care. The hip fracture care pathway introduced between a referring peripheral hospital and our institution represents a coordinated multidisciplinary approach to patient care. ⋯ The fragmented approach to the management of trauma patients both in a pre-hospital and hospital care setting is a cause for concern. Our integrated hip fracture referral pathway, incorporating bypass of the referring hospital, represents a multidisciplinary care pathway for the management of patients with fractured neck of femur and can have potential benefits including improved patient outcomes, allowing the optimal allocation of resources and providing training opportunities.
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A left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is used to support patients with end-stage heart failure. ⋯ CF-LVADs have not reduced mortality, possibly due to utilization in patients with comorbid conditions. Future trials are necessary for improved patient selection and reduced post-procedural complications.
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We reported several personal-oriented and mobile phone-based information technologies which were recently developed and widely used during the outbreak of COVID-19 in China. These technologies help reduce the transmission of COVID-19 and maintain normal social order.
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The originally published version of this article contained typesetting errors in Figs. 2 and 3 legends. The correct figure legends are presented here. The original article has been corrected.
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The introduction of treat and referral by ambulance practitioners is under active consideration in Ireland. The Irish ambulance services have traditionally transported all patients following an emergency (112/999) call to an emergency department. The introduction of treat and referral will present a significant care pathway change. ⋯ GPs are in the main supportive of the introduction of treat and referral; however, they have identified several barriers that may inhibit successful introduction. Importantly, a GP appointment within 48 h does not appear to be a barrier. The adequacy of the working relationships between GPs and the ambulance service and its practitioners appears to have reduced since 2006, which is concerning.