Annals of medicine
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Previous research has raised concerns about high prevalence of drug-related problems, polypharmacy and inappropriate benzodiazepine prescribing in nursing homes (NHs) and confirmed lack of studies from Central and South-Eastern Europe. The aim of our study was to determine the prevalence and characteristics of polypharmacy, hyperpolypharmacy and inappropriate benzodiazepine prescribing in NH residents in Croatia. ⋯ Our research underscores the persistent challenge of inappropriate medication use and drug-related harms among older NH residents, despite existing evidence and professional campaigns. Effective regulatory and policy interventions, including the implementation of geriatrician and clinical pharmacy services, are essential to address this critical issue and ensure optimal medication management for vulnerable NH populations.
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In the Asian population, SOD1 variants are the most common cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). To date, more than 200 variants have been reported in SOD1. This study aimed to summarize the genotype-phenotype correlation and determine whether the patients carrying common variants derive from a common ancestor. ⋯ Our study expanded the understanding of the genotype-phenotype correlation of ALS with SOD1 variants and revealed that the common p.H47R or p.V48A variant did not have a founder effect.
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The performance of host immune responses biomarkers and clinical scores was compared to identify infection patient populations at risk of progression to sepsis, ICU admission and mortality. ⋯ Patients exhibiting low severity signs of infection but high IL-10 levels showed an elevated probability of developing sepsis. Combining IL-10 with the NEWS score provides a reliable tool for predicting the progression from infection to sepsis at an early stage. Utilizing IL-6 in the emergency room can help identify patients with low NEWS or SIRS scores.
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Curiosity is a fundamental human trait that drives learning and exploration. However, research on curiosity has received little attention in the medical field, despite its potential to enhance knowledge acquisition, work performance, and psychosocial well-being. This study aimed to address part of this gap by investigating physicians' perspectives on their personal experiences with curiosity and its role in their professional practice and medical training. ⋯ This study represents the first attempt to explore physicians' perspectives on curiosity in medicine. The findings highlight the potential importance of curiosity in shaping medical professionalism and improving patient care. However, its pursuit is hampered by the challenging working conditions faced by doctors, suggesting a need for enhanced support and cultivation.
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Medical students in the U.S. must demonstrate urgent and emergent care competence before graduation. Urgent and emergent care competence involves recognizing, evaluating and initiating management of an unstable patient. High-fidelity (HF) simulation can improve urgent and emergent care skills, but because it is resource intense, alternative methods are needed. ⋯ VR simulation functions similarly to HF for formative assessment of urgent and emergent care competence. However, using VR simulation for summative assessment of urgent and emergent care competence must be considered with caution because students require considerable practice and acclimation to the virtual environment.