Journal of evaluation in clinical practice
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To assess and evaluate consumer awareness and common medication use practices towards OTC analgesics, with a focus on the impact of irrational drug use and its implications for public health and safety. This includes identifying gaps in knowledge, evaluating the potential consequences of misuse, and discussing how these findings can inform future educational initiatives and policy development to promote safer medication practices. ⋯ Our study highlights the menace of self-medication practices and irrational use of OTC analgesic by the study participants. Immediate remedial measure need to be taken to discourage self-medication and improve rational use of OTC drugs which can be achieved by focusing on improving the consumers' awareness of self-medication and the rational use of medications.
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Antibiotic overuse is highly reported among dentists worldwide. An antibiotic stewardship programme has been shown to be effective for decreasing the number of unappropriated antibiotic prescriptions. The goal of this survey was to assess dentists' awareness of antibiotic stewardship and their willingness to implement changes accordingly. ⋯ Awareness of antibiotic stewardship was low among dentists with different levels of experience. However, dentists were willing to change their antibiotic prescription habits if policies were implemented as part of a stewardship programme at the school.
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NICE guidelines recommend offering computerised Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (cCBT) to young people with mild mental health issues to ensure early treatment access and reduce service demand. Emerging evidence suggests cCBT reduces symptoms, but further evaluation is needed. SilverCloud is a recommended digital CBT programme. ⋯ This evaluation suggests tentative pessimism regarding SilverCloud's benefits. However, due to significant challenges and limitations, further analysis is recommended. Recommendations were given for local services.
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Throughout the twentieth century and beyond, a global trend of declining mortality rates and an increase in life expectancies was noted until the onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. A reduction in life expectancies was observed in most countries, including South Asia, during 2020 and 2021 due to the excess mortality caused by the pandemic. ⋯ These findings highlight the pandemic's profound impact on mortality dynamics, emphasising the need for targeted interventions to mitigate its long-term effects on population health and longevity.
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Schizophrenia is a complex mental health disorder that not only affects the individual diagnosed but also has profound implications for their families and caregivers. This paper aims to shed light on the emotional, social and practical challenges faced by caregivers, as well as the coping mechanisms they employ to navigate the complexities of caregiving. ⋯ Caregivers often experience a wide range of emotions, from love and empathy to frustration and helplessness, as they navigate the challenges of supporting their loved ones with schizophrenia. Additionally, caregivers may face stigma, social isolation and financial strain, further complicating their caregiving journey.