The Journal of laryngology and otology
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Comparative Study
Nurse-led triage of otolaryngology out-patient referrals: an acceptable alternative?
To establish the safety and effectiveness of nurse-led triage of otolaryngology out-patient referrals. ⋯ Triage of out-patient referrals by trained ENT nurses is safe and effective, and is an acceptable alternative to traditional consultant vetting of referrals.
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Review Case Reports
Anterior cervical osteophytes resulting in severe dysphagia and aspiration: two case reports and literature review.
We report two cases in which dysphagia and aspiration, caused by anterior cervical osteophytes, were so severe that surgical resection was performed. ⋯ In patients with anterior cervical osteophytes, surgical treatment is indicated only for selected cases with large, bony osteophytes and severe symptoms.
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'High stakes' postgraduate medical examinations should conform to current educational standards. In the UK and Ireland, national assessments in surgery are devised and managed through the examination structure of the Royal Colleges of Surgeons. Their efforts are not reported in the medical education literature. In the current paper, we aim to clarify this process. ⋯ We have developed a summative, Objective, Structured, Clinical Examination for doctors training in otorhinolaryngology, reported herein. The objectives and standards of setting a high quality assessment were met.