Emergency nurse : the journal of the RCN Accident and Emergency Nursing Association
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It is important to be able to demonstrate that clinical practice and choice of products are based on evidence. This article discusses findings from an audit of wound-healing outcomes, ease of use, and patient and practitioner satisfaction associated with the use of a tissue adhesive in an emergency department. It briefly discusses wound and adhesive types, and shows that using such products for specific lacerations can provide safe and effective closure and acceptable healing outcomes for patients and clinicians, and reports the results of the study.
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Patient group directions (PGDs) enable practitioners who are not independent prescribers to administer or supply patients with medications. They reduce delays in the administration of medication and thereby improve patients' journeys. This article discusses an audit of the use of PGDs in an emergency care centre to ensure that they are used appropriately and regularly.
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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.