Emergency nurse : the journal of the RCN Accident and Emergency Nursing Association
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Sore throats are common presentations in emergency and primary care settings and, although only between 5 and 10 per cent of adults with this condition are found to have bacterial infections, the use of antibiotics is still widespread. This article refers to a case study to describe the causes and complications of acute sore throats, and reviews the literature on the use of antibiotics. It also recommends the McIsaac scoring system as a reliable method of diagnosis and treatment decision making.
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This article provides basic information on safe and effective wound closure using tissue adhesive. Although it is intended for staff who are new to emergency care, it can be used by more experienced staff as a refresher or teaching aid.
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Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opioids have been the mainstay of pain relief in patients with renal colic, but both have side effects. Research on the efficacy of intravenous (IV) paracetamol shows that it is comparable to morphine, diclofenac and ketoralac. This article discusses the role of IV paracetamol for patients with this condition. It examines the effectiveness, mechanism of action and pharmacokinetics of IV paracetamol, and suggests that non-clinical prescribers can use the method to relieve patients' pain quickly.