Age and ageing
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Carbon monoxide poisoning represents a potentially preventable and reversible cause of mortality and morbidity if sources and cases can be identified. The elderly have been shown to be particularly at risk. Concerns continue to be raised about potential unrecognised cases of carbon monoxide poisoning. ⋯ In general carbon monoxide has no helpful unique clinical presentation and is known to mimic common illnesses as well as exacerbate established diseases. As a gas it is undetectable by the human senses and is potentially present in most households. This paper reviews the issues associated with carbon monoxide poisoning including pointers to early diagnosis and discussion of pathophysiology and management.
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Comparative Study
The epidemiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS/MND) in people aged 80 or over.
To describe the clinical features, incidence, survival and process of care of people with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/Motor Neurone Disease aged 80 years or more at diagnosis. ⋯ This is the first comprehensive report of the epidemiology of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/Motor Neurone Disease in older people. Clinical presentation and survival differ from the population as a whole. There is evidence of a different process of care. While this may be to the detriment of their survival, this finding would need to be confirmed by further prospective studies.
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To investigate whether a care pathway for older hip fracture patients can reduce length of stay while maintaining the quality of clinical care. ⋯ This care pathway was associated with longer hospital stay and improved clinical outcomes. Care pathways for hip fracture patients can be a useful tool for raising care standards but may require additional resources.