Acta Medica Port
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The COVID-19 pandemic led to the cancellation of healthcare appointments and to lower demand, which generated unmet healthcare needs. The aim of this study was to evaluate their prevalence and distribution in Portugal. ⋯ Our study showed a high prevalence of unmet needs and their concentration in individuals with worse health status. Given the association between unmet needs and the subsequent deterioration of health, these results should raise concerns about the near future.
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In 2020, critical care departments underwent profound changes imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the pandemic on the intensive care residency program in Portugal. ⋯ The COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on the Critical Care Residency program in Portugal. Most residents surveyed provided care to COVID-19 patients and not only saw their rotations suspended but also experienced difficulties in rescheduling them.
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Oxygen therapy remains the cornerstone for managing patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection and several modalities of non-invasive ventilation are used worldwide. High-flow oxygen via nasal canula is one therapeutic option which may in certain cases prevent the need of mechanical ventilation. The aim of this review is to summarize the current evidence on the use of high-flow nasal oxygen in patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. ⋯ High flow nasal oxygen is an established option for respiratory support in COVID-19 patients. Further investigation is required to quantify its efficacy and utility in preventing the requirement of invasive ventilation.
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Q fever (or query fever) is a zoonotic infectious disease with worldwide distribution transmitted by an intracellular Gram-negative bacterium, Coxiella burnetii. The most common identified sources of human infection are farm animals, such as sheep, goats and cattle. The disease is endemic in mainland Portugal, with most cases notified in the central and southern regions. ⋯ Given the complexity of this infection, there is no universal consensus to date on the best strategy to manage Q fever patients. These guidelines provide recommendations regarding the treatment and follow-up of these patients, based on studies, on the author's experience and on the opinion of international experts. The aim is to harmonize the management of these patients taking into account not only the clinical manifestations but also the risk factors of the host in order to reduce disease-associated morbidity and mortality.