Primary care
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This article is intended as an overview of emergencies that could and often do present to the physician's office, especially when a hospital emergency department may not be nearby. It is not intended as an in-depth view of every problem but should be considered as a presentation of essential management in the emergency phase of treatment. The reader is directed to the references for more in-depth information on these topics.
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The author provides a comprehensive overview of online medical information services that can be accessed by personal computer users over telephone lines. The article encompasses the reasons for online database access, equipment considerations, and structure and sources of database information. Tips on search strategy and resources for increasing database search proficiency are also included.
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The magnitude of the smoking problem is overwhelming. The annual mortality and expense are staggering. ⋯ A consistent attitude of nonacceptance of the smoking habit with recommendations and support for discontinuation can make a significant impact on the problem. Extension of this attitude into community affairs and regional and national politics will result in increased public awareness and eventually in the majority rejecting this costly habit.
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In the preceding discussion we have attempted to set forth some realistic guidelines for the primary care physician in the critical care area. We feel that he is of utmost importance in setting the tone for his patient's care. He is the first physician to be called when his patient becomes critically ill. ⋯ One cannot be expected to become or remain an expert in primary care and critical care medicine. The primary care physician should not feel or be excluded from the critical care area. His knowledge of general medicine and his expertise in interpersonal and family relationships allow him to provide the much needed "high touch" component of "high tech" critical care medicine.
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With the recent advances in radiographic medical technology, confusion about the appropriate use of this technology has developed. The major clinical benefits of these advances are reviewed.