West African journal of medicine
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Observational Study
Meniscus Sign: A Test for the Confirmation of Correct Placement of Epidural Catheter.
Localization of epidural space has no clear-cut end point like during subarachnoid block, making it an enigma to the anaesthetist. Confirmation of correct placement of the catheter is desirable in order to prevent failure, high or total spinal when large amount of local anaesthetic agent is inadvertently injected in the intrathecal space, subdural block and lastly local anaesthesia systemic toxicity. This study evaluated the use of meniscus sign to confirm correct placement of epidural catheter. ⋯ The meniscus sign is a reliable indicator of correct epidural catheter placement, with high sensitivity and specificity.
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Information pertaining to the clinical characteristics of COVID-19 in sub-Saharan Africa remains sparse. In Nigeria, it is limited to few isolated reports and case series confined to the early phase of the outbreak. The objective of this study is to describe the presenting characteristics, co-morbidities and outcomes of Nigerian patients managed over a 3-month period in a tertiary hospital. ⋯ The first epidemiological and clinical summary of COVID-19 cases in Edo state, Nigeria over a three-month period is presented showing globally recognized patterns of male predilection and higher mortality with increasing age and co-morbidity.
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Emerging infectious diseases pose a great hazard to public health and the global economy. A novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), emerged from Wuhan, China, in December 2019. Since then, it has spread globally causing a global health emergency of inconceivable magnitude, with significant morbidity and mortality. There is the need for clinicians and health care providers to understand and gain knowledge of the different aspects of the disease as it evolves. ⋯ There is urgent need for potent antivirals and vaccine to manage those infected with COVID 19 and prevent infection. Global efforts need to be unified in combating this public health emergency and flattening the curve of spread.
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Medical doctors are prone to stress and utilize a variety of coping strategies. This study aims to measure the level of perceived stress and its relationship with coping strategies among doctors working in a tertiary hospital in Ile-Ife, Nigeria. ⋯ There is high level of stress among a sample of Nigerian doctors. Hence, there is a need for stress management program among them.
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Laparoscopic surgery is a relatively new and expanding field of surgical therapy in Ondo state. This is a multi-centre study cataloguing the work of the authors in Ondo State, Nigeria. ⋯ Laparoscopic service is achievable with adequate motivation, males appear to benefit more in our setting, and the service transcends all aged groups.