Singap Med J
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Pulse oximetry is the standard monitoring technique of functional oxygen saturation (SpO2). As the use of fingernail polish has been described to alter SpO2 readings, its removal is commonly recommended prior to measurement. Gel-based manicures have gained popularity in recent years due to their attractiveness and longevity. However, the removal of gel nail polish requires a specialised procedure. Valuable time and resources can be saved if removal can be avoided. To our knowledge, there are no available studies on the effect of gel-based manicures on pulse oximetry readings. Hence, we evaluated the effect with two oximeters, using different technology and wavelength combinations. ⋯ Gel-based manicures can result in overestimations of actual readings, delaying detection of hypoxaemia. Gel nail polish should be routinely removed or an alternative monitoring technique sought.
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Associated factors of blood transfusion for Caesarean sections in pure placenta praevia pregnancies.
This study aimed to evaluate associated factors of blood transfusion for Caesarean sections in pure placenta praevia pregnancies. ⋯ Previous Caesarean section, anterior placentation, major placenta praevia, preoperative bleeding of more than 250 mL, preoperative anaemia and emergency Caesarean section were independent factors that increased the risk of blood transfusion for Caesarean section in pure placenta praevia pregnancies.
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Parkinson's disease (PD) is associated with cognitive decline but little is known about frontal-subcortical and posterior cortical cognitive functioning in patients with PD. The present study was designed to: (a) compare frontal and posterior cognitive functioning between patients with PD and healthy controls; (b) determine the effect of levodopa (L-dopa) on frontal-subcortical and posterior cortical cognitive functions; and (c) identify predictors of cognitive functions in patients with PD. ⋯ L-dopa medication improves frontal-subcortical and posterior cortical cognitive functioning in patients with PD. Disease duration is a marker of cognitive decline in PD.