European journal of anaesthesiology
-
An increasing number of studies suggest that anaesthesia information management systems (AIMS) improve clinical care. The purpose of this web survey study was to assess the prevalence of AIMS in European university-affiliated anaesthesia departments and to identify the motivations for and barriers to AIMS adoption. ⋯ At least 44 (or 15%) of the 294 university-affiliated departments surveyed in this study have already implemented, are implementing, or are currently selecting an AIMS. The main barrier identified by AIMS nonadopters is lack of funds.
-
Long waiting times are a problem often encountered at the preoperative assessment clinic (PAC). To tackle this problem, we redesigned our appointment system using a multifactor approach. Waiting times and patients' experiences before and after implementation of the new appointment system were compared. ⋯ The new appointment system reduced the waiting time at the PAC, and patients' experiences were more positive after implementation of the new system. All efforts should be made to avoid unpunctuality from physicians and patients.
-
Evidence showed involvement of neural activity in acute myocardial ischaemia but the knowledge about the role in the pathology is still limited. The objective of this study was to examine whether low cervical and upper thoracic epidural anaesthesia could reduce apoptosis of the myocardium induced by 3-h and 6-h permanent coronary artery occlusion (CAO) in rats. ⋯ The findings may indicate blockade of spinal nerves could reduce apoptosis of myocardium in acute myocardial ischaemia and infarction.