Minnesota medicine
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Antibiotic use has come under increased scrutiny because of the emergence of multidrug-resistant organisms. Many have called for restricting use of antibiotics in humans and animals, finding strategies to reduce the spreadof resistant organisms and development of new anti-infectives. The challenge for many clinicians is identifyingwhen antibiotics are needed, which ones to use and how long to use them. This article offers practical advice foridentifying when antibiotics are beneficial and curbing inappropriate use.
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Many incoming medical and undergraduate students seek out international medical mission trips to supplement their education and training. However, few have the necessary skills to perform simple clinical tasks such as taking vital signs or conducting an initial patient interview. We conducted a small pilot study to assess the impact of simulation exercises on teaching incoming first-year medical students and undergraduate students basic clinical skills and teamwork. ⋯ All 20 indicated the simulation was effective in teaching clinical and team-building skills. In addition, the simulation exercise improved participants' confidence in their ability to perform certain clinical tasks and work as a team prior to the mission trip. We concluded that simulation is effective for incoming medical and undergraduate students and can be used prior to global health trips to increase their confidence in performing tasks required for a successful experience.