Brit J Hosp Med
-
Major trauma networks reduce mortality in critically injured patients. Trauma patients should be appropriately triaged straight from the scene of injury, avoiding secondary transfer from a trauma unit. Selection criteria in regionally agreed triage tools are designed to identify which patients should be taken directly to the major trauma centre. ⋯ This article presents a theoretical case of a haemodynamically unstable patient with penetrating injuries, and discusses the management of chest trauma, including diagnosis of life-threatening injuries, resuscitation strategies and definitive surgical management. Secondary transfer to the major trauma centre should be considered after instituting the minimal life-saving interventions. What constitutes a life-saving intervention requires an individual dynamic risk assessment and an understanding of major trauma networks.
-
In the UK, harm caused by alcohol has worsened since 2020. A recent report from the Institute of Alcohol Studies projecting future rates of major alcohol-related diseases highlights what this means for health and healthcare. The authors argue that this additional burden is not inevitable if effective policies are introduced.
-
Clinicians and institutions must recognise the unique set of considerations required by breastfeeding patients, a small but vulnerable cohort of patients. Modification of existing perioperative pathways, diligent prescribing and multidisciplinary involvement can facilitate safe and patient-centred perioperative care.