The New Zealand medical journal
-
As the population ages, the number of elderly patients suffering injuries is increasing. Reports from North America have shown an increasing proportion of elderly admissions with a disproportionate number of deaths. However, this trend has not yet been examined in New Zealand. The aim of this study was to determine unique characteristics of geriatric patients as compared to the general trauma population. ⋯ ACH has seen a significant increase in elderly trauma admissions without a change in catchment or referral pattern. These patients have a higher mortality than those under 65, longer length of stay, and are less likely to return home. Specific education on fall prevention should be increased to lessen the burden on the health system as a whole. Given the linear increase in mortality, specialised geriatric care should be considered starting at age 75.
-
In the context of expectations regarding role evolution, including increased interprofessional working, this study aimed to gain insight into how GPs and pharmacists understood the professional role of the pharmacist and its expansion, extension and calls for increased collaboration. ⋯ Attempts to encourage one professional group to expand or extend their practice may be perceived as a threat by those adjacent. Mitigation strategies involve clear communication and acknowledgment that interprofessional trust takes time to establish.
-
This is a case report of Lemierre's syndrome, a septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein (IJV) usually preceded by pharyngitis and bacteraemia with an anaerobic organism. Fusobacterium necrophorum is ananaerobic Gram-negative bacillus and is the most common organism reported to cause Lemierre's syndrome which usually occurs one to three weeks post pharyngitis or oropharyngeal surgery. ⋯ Blood cultures grew F. necrophorum and Computed Tomography (CT) showed a filling defect in the left retromandibular vein and thrombosis in the left internal jugular vein (IJV) consistent with Lemierre's syndrome. This is an uncommon condition which normally occurs in young individuals and diagnosis is often delayed.