American journal of obstetrics and gynecology
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Am. J. Obstet. Gynecol. · Feb 2018
ReviewTo the point: medical education, technology, and the millennial learner.
This article, from the "To The Point" series that was prepared by the Association of Professors of Gynecology and Obstetrics Undergraduate Medical Education Committee, provides an overview of the characteristics of millennials and describes how medical educators can customize and reframe their curricula and teaching methods to maximize millennial learning. A literature search was performed to identify articles on generational learning. We summarize the importance of understanding the attitudes, ideas, and priorities of millennials to tailor educational methods to stimulate and enhance learning. Where relevant, a special focus on the obstetrics and gynecology curriculum is highlighted.
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Am. J. Obstet. Gynecol. · Feb 2018
Randomized Controlled TrialUtility of anesthetic block for endometrial ablation pain: a randomized controlled trial.
Second-generation endometrial ablation has been demonstrated safe for abnormal uterine bleeding treatment, in premenopausal women who have completed childbearing, in short-stay surgical centers and in physicians' offices. However, no standard regarding anesthesia exists, and practice varies depending on physician or patient preference and hospital policy and setting. ⋯ This randomized controlled trial found that local anesthetic with low risk for complications, used in conjunction with general anesthesia, decreased postoperative pain at 1 hour and significantly reduced postoperative narcotic use following endometrial ablation. Further research is needed to determine whether the study results are generalizable and whether post procedure is the best time to administer the paracervical block to decrease endometrial ablation pain.
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Am. J. Obstet. Gynecol. · Feb 2018
ReviewPerioperative pain management: an update for obstetrician-gynecologists.
The opioid epidemic in the United States is unprecedented and continues to worsen. Many opioid abusers obtain their pills through legitimate prescriptions, directly or indirectly, from a medical provider. While practitioners have a responsibility to treat pain, it is now becoming clear that aggressive opioid prescription practices contribute to an epidemic of abuse. ⋯ Therefore, the objective of this publication was to familiarize obstetricians and gynecologists with contemporary concepts in pain management and summarize recent guidelines in a manner that is applicable to our specialty. We focus on perioperative pain management, which is the time period immediately before, during, and after surgery. Topics reviewed include proper risk assessment to evaluate a patient's potential for poor pain control or development of chronic pain or misuse of opioids; multimodal pain management with nonpharmacological, nonopioid alternatives, safe opioid-use strategies; education and documentation; and special considerations for women, veterans, and lactation concerns.
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Am. J. Obstet. Gynecol. · Feb 2018
Comparative Study Pragmatic Clinical TrialEffectiveness of app-based self-acupressure for women with menstrual pain compared to usual care: a randomized pragmatic trial.
Primary dysmenorrhea is common among women of reproductive age. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and oral contraceptives are effective treatments, although the failure rate is around 20% to 25%. Therefore additional evidence-based treatments are needed. In recent years, the use of smartphone applications (apps) has increased rapidly and may support individuals in self-management strategies. ⋯ Smartphone app-delivered self-acupressure resulted in a reduction of menstrual pain compared to usual care only. Effects were increasing over time, and adherence was good. Future trials should include comparisons with other active treatment options.
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Am. J. Obstet. Gynecol. · Feb 2018
Religious hospital policies on reproductive care: what do patients want to know?
Religious hospitals are a large and growing part of the American healthcare system. Patients who receive obstetric and other reproductive care in religious hospitals may face religiously-based restrictions on the treatment their doctor can provide. Little is known about patients' knowledge or preferences regarding religiously restricted reproductive healthcare. ⋯ The vast majority of adult American women of reproductive age want information about a hospital's religious restrictions on care when deciding where to go for obstetrics/gynecology care. Growth in the US Catholic health care sector suggests an increasing need for transparency about these restrictions so that women can make informed decisions and, when needed, seek alternative providers.