The New Zealand medical journal
-
Observational Study
The burden of alcohol-related presentations to a busy urban New Zealand hospital emergency department.
This cross-sectional observational study presents a focused analysis of alcohol-related presentations (ARPs) to a major New Zealand emergency department (ED) with the aim of describing and comparing the profile and outcomes of these presentations. ⋯ The findings from this study highlight the burden of alcohol misuse on the ED. Continued public health efforts are required to implement preventative strategies for alcohol-related harm in the ED and society as a whole.
-
To assess the incidence of pre-operative anaemia in patients presenting for general surgery and determine the relationship between pre-operative anaemia, transfusion and post-operative metrics including length of stay (LOS) and infectious complications. ⋯ Pre-operative anaemia is associated with an increase in hospital LOS and infectious complications. When adjusted for transfusion the effect of pre-operative anaemia alone on hospital LOS and infectious complications is not statistically significant. Expeditious investigation and treatment of PA could reduce complications and save resources.
-
Last year, there were 2,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCA) in New Zealand, 74% received CPR but only 5.1% accessed an automated external defibrillator (AED). The average survival rate of OHCA is 13%. The aim of this study was to visit all 50 AED locations shown on www.hamiltoncentral.co.nz to assess their true availability and visibility to the public in the event of an OHCA. ⋯ Far fewer than 50 listed AEDs are freely available to the public, especially after 6pm and on weekends. Lack of signposting and restrictions to access would lead to delayed defibrillation. This important health issue needs addressing.
-
Urinary and faecal incontinence substantially impacts upon physical health and is associated with significant psychological distress and reduced quality of life. Due to stigma and embarrassment, many patients do not present for management of their incontinence. ⋯ Urinary and faecal incontinence can have a significant impact on an individual's psychological wellbeing and quality of life. Psychological factors may either contribute to or arise from incontinence and should be addressed as part of the overall management plan.