Aust Fam Physician
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Patient initiated aggression toward general practice staff can cause distress among staff, however, it is unknown how frequently practice staff experience patient aggression in the workplace. The aim of this study is to determine the national prevalence of patient aggression toward general practice staff. ⋯ This study provides some national evidence of the prevalence of patient aggression toward general practice staff. This may inform the development of policy and procedures.
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A man, 43 years of age, presents to his general practitioner with a 6 day history of sore throat. There are no other symptoms of an upper respiratory tract infection. In passing, the patient mentions that 6 days ago he experienced an episode of exertional chest pain. ⋯ He has no cervical lymphadenopathy. His lungs are clear on auscultation and his heart sounds are dual with no murmur. His electrocardiogram is shown in Figure 1.
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This article reports on documented levels of depression among people with diabetes attending indigenous primary care centres. ⋯ The results of this study are inconsistent with the evidence showing high prevalence of mental distress among indigenous people. A more thorough investigation into the capacity, methods and barriers involved in diagnosing and managing depression in indigenous primary care is needed.
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Sexual difficulties are common across the female lifespan, increasing at midlife. Although changing hormone levels at menopause may contribute to the development of female sexual dysfunction, other factors, including relationship issues; psychological wellbeing; physical wellbeing; and medication use, such as antidepressants, need to be taken into consideration. The most common sexual difficulties reported by women across the perimenopause include dyspareunia, diminished desire, arousal capacity and difficulty in achieving orgasm. ⋯ Many women experience loss of libido, reduced desire, difficulty in achieving orgasm and dyspareunia during their late reproductive and perimenopausal years. It is important that a woman is assessed in the context of her personal circumstances, partnership status, sexual experiences and cultural expectations. Management options range from informative discussions through to counselling and therapeutic intervention.
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Combining energy drinks (such as 'Red Bull(®)') with alcohol is becoming increasingly popular, particularly among young people. However, as yet, limited research has been conducted examining the harms associated with this form of drinking. ⋯ Combining alcohol with energy drinks can mask the signs of alcohol intoxication, resulting in greater levels of alcohol intake, dehydration, more severe and prolonged hangovers, and alcohol poisoning. It may also increase engagement in risky behaviours (such as drink driving) as well as alcohol related violence. General practitioners should be aware of the harms associated with this pattern of drinking, and provide screening and relevant harm reduction advice.