The New Zealand medical journal
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Since the introduction of shared electric scooters to Auckland in October 2018, there have been multiple reports of injuries. We aim to examine the pattern of injuries sustained while riding electric scooters in patients presenting to hospital. ⋯ This study highlights the significant number of electric scooter-related injuries, including severe head injuries. While the majority of presentations are categorised as minor trauma, these cases have placed additional demand on health system resources. This mode of transport would benefit from greater regulation, including a zero blood alcohol limit, night-time curfews, reduced speed limits and consideration of mandatory helmet use.
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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.
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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.
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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.