Brit J Hosp Med
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Acute ischaemic stroke is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In the UK alone, there are more than 100 000 strokes per year, causing 38 000 deaths. ⋯ Admission of patients to specialised stroke units has led to an improvement in clinical outcomes, but the role of intensive care is less well defined. This article reviews the current critical care management and neuro-therapeutic options after an acute ischaemic stroke.
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The post-take ward round is often the first time that a senior clinician reviews a patient on the acute medical take. Despite this, there is no official guidance regarding structure or documentation of the post-take ward round. The aim of this quality improve project was to develop a ward round proforma specifically tailored to the care of the older people's service to improve quality of documentation and to encourage initiation of the comprehensive geriatric assessment. ⋯ Use of a specifically tailored post-take ward round proforma improves the quality and consistency of documentation and encourages the initiation of the comprehensive geriatric assessment.
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Rotator cuff tears are a common cause of shoulder pain. The incidence of these tears has increased significantly over the years, with the demands of an increasingly active elderly population. Therefore, a detailed understanding of rotator cuff tears will help doctors manage their patients' condition. This field has rapidly advanced over the past decade and this review provided an insight into the latest developments.
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Acute bowel obstruction can occur in the small or large bowel and accounts for up to 10% of emergency surgical admissions. This high-risk group of patients requires careful management. Early diagnosis via computed tomography can help to prevent delays when surgery is required, which can impact patient outcomes.
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Many doctors take time out of clinical practice, and then have decreased confidence and poor performance ratings on their return. Simulation training provides a safe and effective learning platform for healthcare professionals to become immersed in realistic scenarios that provide an opportunity to develop technical and non-technical skills. ⋯ Quantitative and qualitative analysis showed a significant pre/post-course increase in candidates' self-reported confidence in returning to practice along with learning in non-technical skills. The carefully designed standardised format may facilitate wider expansion of such training.