Primary care
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Abnormal uterine bleeding is a frequent medical concern for premenopausal and postmenopausal patients. Endometrial biopsy is a safe, cost-effective option offered in the office setting. ⋯ Topical cervical analgesia and oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs decrease a patient's discomfort during endometrial biopsy. Aftercare instructions and how patients want to receive results should be reviewed in advance of performing the endometrial biopsy.
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Neonatal circumcision is one of the most common elective surgical procedures in the United States and globally. This procedure, to remove part of the penile prepuce or foreskin, is done for a variety of personal, social, and medical reasons. ⋯ Three equally safe and effective methods are used for circumcision, and each uses unique equipment: the Gomco clamp, the Mogen clamp, and the Plastibell device. Choice of technique should be guided by operator training and comfort.
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Pulmonary function testing (PFT) is an important component of the evaluation, monitoring, and management of patients with suspected or established lung disease. Spirometry is easily accomplished in the primary care office setting; determination of lung volumes and diffusion capacity is performed in a pulmonary laboratory. Spirometry evaluates vital capacity of the lungs and expiratory flow rates and provides both numeric data and a graphic depiction of respiratory air flow. Characteristic patterns in spirometry-derived data allow the clinician to identify potential lung disease, as well as establish relative reversibility of airflow abnormalities.
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Insertion of urinary catheters (most often Foley catheters) can be performed in outpatient settings to manage acute urinary obstruction without referral to emergency services, as well as to obtain urine samples in patients not able to provide a clean catch urine sample. For patients with established suprapubic urinary catheters, routine exchange can also occur safely in primary care settings. Excision of a thrombosed external hemorrhoid can be performed in the office setting with local anesthesia. The procedure offers better clinical outcomes than symptomatic treatment if performed within the first 72 hours from the onset of symptoms.
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Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are safe, highly effective, reversible contraception and come in 2 varieties in the United States: nonhormonal (copper) or levonorgestrel hormonal (LNG) IUDs. There are few absolute contraindications, making them appropriate birth control for most patients. Patients are more likely to select an IUD when counseled about IUD removal and factors that are important to them. IUD insertion and removal are uncomplicated office procedures that can be offered by primary care providers.