Irish medical journal
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Irish medical journal · Jan 2005
Inadequacies in the first aid management of burns presenting to plastic surgery services.
Burn injury is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity in Ireland. Simple first aid measures such as immediate wound cooling and removal of the source of injury can significantly improve clinical outcome. We conducted a six-month study, investigating the first aid measures taken by both patients and their primary carers following burn injury. ⋯ Only 20% of patients who sustained burns at work reported that first aid was available in the workplace. This study illustrates that knowledge regarding the initial management of burn injury is very poor. We suggest that a national public health education campaign could have a positive effect on the outcome of burn injury.
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A majority of in-patients with acute stroke in Ireland are cared for by general physicians. We studied the process of care and outcomes of stroke patients admitted to an acute general hospital in a rural setting. Ninety-five patients (55 males and 40 females) were admitted over 36 weeks. ⋯ In patient mortality was 18.9%. The commonest discharge destination was to the Medical Rehabilitation Unit (44%). A high prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors was identified indicating significant potential for secondary prevention.
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Irish medical journal · Nov 2004
The management of dural puncture in obstetrics and the efficacy of epidural blood patches.
Epidural blood patch is the definitive treatment for post dural puncture headaches (PDH), providing acceptable short-term relief. Disappointingly however debate exists as to their long-term success. To investigate their efficacy in our practice, a retrospective audit of all epidural blood patches performed over a four year period was performed. ⋯ Only 25.53% said they would have an epidural or spinal anaesthetic for future deliveries. Epidural blood patches provide excellent short-term relief but long-term results are disappointing. Patients receiving epidural blood patches need improved long-term follow up.