Brit J Hosp Med
-
Most life-threatening conditions form a coherent clinical picture, with examination findings confirming the patient's history. However, pain out of proportion to examination findings can also signify an emergency - acute compartment syndrome, bowel ischaemia, necrotising fasciitis and acute aortic dissection may all present in this way. ⋯ Patients with unexplained pain risk significant morbidity and mortality, and doctors are vulnerable to litigation and reputational damage. This article addresses this danger, exploring the causes and pathology of pain that is out of proportion, and presenting an approach to mitigate risk and prevent catastrophe.
-
COVID-19 has had a significant impact on patient health and the delivery of healthcare within the UK. This article highlights perioperative considerations as elective work moves back to pre-pandemic levels.
-
Most international medical graduates obtain a non-training job, such as a trust grade role, when they first start work in the UK. This transition into a new healthcare system comes with many sociocultural and educational challenges. The aim of this study was to learn more about the different types of challenges and propose solutions where possible. ⋯ This study highlighted the challenges faced by international medical graduates in trust grade roles and proposed solutions where possible. Although responses varied, educational barriers were the most widely highlighted concern. To understand the full extent of these hurdles, perceptions of other healthcare professionals should be explored.