Aim: This article investigates the increasing awareness of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) as a potentially serious health risk and highlights the role of the dentist in managing mild to moderate OSA cases which can be...Aim: This article investigates the increasing awareness of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) as a potentially serious health risk and highlights the role of the dentist in managing mild to moderate OSA cases which can be improved with an intra-oral mandibular advancement appliance. Methods: Data from referrals to a Prosthodontic Unit from 01-01-2019 to 18-8-2022 were analysed. Results: A total of 240 consecutive referrals to an NHS hospital where a patient was fitted with a mandibular advancement appliance (MAA) were analysed and 160 (67%) were male and 80 (33%) were female. The mean age in years was 52 (2019), 50 (2020), 52 (2021) and 51 (2022). Mean age of male referrals was 51 and female referrals was 53. Conclusion: There are a large number of patients with OSA seeking a dental device and practitioners should be aware of this treatment modality to help the medical team manage OSA. Clinical relevance: Dentists may need to have a greater understanding of OSA and be able to provide MAAs.展开更多
AIM:To determine whether a communication instru-ment provided to patients prior to their primary carephysician(PCP)visit initiates a conversation with theirPCP about colorectal cancer screening(CRC-S),impact-ing scree...AIM:To determine whether a communication instru-ment provided to patients prior to their primary carephysician(PCP)visit initiates a conversation with theirPCP about colorectal cancer screening(CRC-S),impact-ing screening referral rates in fully insured and underin-sured patients.METHODS:A prospective randomized control studywas performed at a single academic center outpatient internal medicine(IRMC,underinsured)and fam-ily medicine(FMRC,insured)resident clinics prior to scheduled visits.In the intervention group,a pamphlet about the benefit of CRC-S and a reminder card were given to patients before the scheduled visit for prompt-ing of CRC-S referral by their PCP.The main outcome measured was frequency of CRC-S referral in each clinic after intervention.RESULTS:In the IRMC,148 patients participated,a control group of 72 patients(40F and 32M)and 76 patients(48F and 28M)in the intervention group.Re-ferrals for CRC-S occurred in 45/72(63%)of control vs 70/76(92%)in the intervention group(P≤0.001).In the FMRC,126 patients participated,66(39F:27M)con-trol and 60(33F:27M)in the intervention group.CRC-S referrals occurred in 47/66(71%)of controls vs 56/60(98%)in the intervention group(P≤0.001).CONCLUSION:Patient initiated physician prompting produced a significant referral increase for CRC-S in un-derinsured and insured patient populations.Additional investigation aimed at increasing CRC-S acceptance is warranted.展开更多
Background:To characterize emergency optometrist referrals triaged at a tertiary ophthalmology care center by pathology,physical exam findings,and provisional diagnosis accuracy.Methods:Variables extracted from the pa...Background:To characterize emergency optometrist referrals triaged at a tertiary ophthalmology care center by pathology,physical exam findings,and provisional diagnosis accuracy.Methods:Variables extracted from the patients’charts included date of referral,age,sex,eye(s)under examination,visual acuity(VA)at the time of referral,intraocular pressure(IOP)at the time of the referral,the referring optometrist’s provisional diagnosis,VA at the time of the ophthalmologist consultation,IOP at the time of the ophthalmologist consultation,number of days between referral and ophthalmic consultation,and the ophthalmologist’s diagnosis.Results:After categorizing disease by anatomical location,absolute agreement between optometrist provisional diagnosis and ophthalmologist diagnosis was 60%.A strong correlation was found between optometrist and ophthalmologist VA measurements.IOP measurements were checked less frequently by optometrists.In cases where referral IOP was documented,no significant difference was observed between optometrist and ophthalmologist IOP measures.Conclusions:VA and IOP measurements by optometrists are reliable,but IOP is less frequently checked in the optometry setting.While optometrist referrals correctly localized eye pathology in 60%of cases,posterior pathology was missed in two cases of retinal tear and retinal detachment.展开更多
BACKGROUND Systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)can affect multiple organs or systems.The involvement of the central nervous system can result in the manifestation of epilepsy,an acute confusional state,and other rare neu...BACKGROUND Systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)can affect multiple organs or systems.The involvement of the central nervous system can result in the manifestation of epilepsy,an acute confusional state,and other rare neuropsychiatric presentations,such as catatonia.CASE SUMMARY We present a case of an adolescent male patient with first-onset SLE who presented with neuropsychiatric symptoms including epilepsy and delirium.The initial utilization of olanzapine to alleviate symptoms of agitation precipitated the emergence of catatonia,which was mitigated by discontinuing olanzapine and supplementing with lorazepam.In this case,whether the catatonia was secondary to the utilization of antipsychotics or to an organic disease is a question that warrants differential diagnosis.CONCLUSION Multidisciplinary collaborative management is the cornerstone for the successful management of severe cases of SLE.展开更多
Obstetric complications are the main cause of mortality and morbidity. Many factors limit women’s access to the quality care they need to reduce this mortality. We proposed to analyse our referral system to identify ...Obstetric complications are the main cause of mortality and morbidity. Many factors limit women’s access to the quality care they need to reduce this mortality. We proposed to analyse our referral system to identify certain factors that may limit its proper functioning and contribute to maternal deaths. This was a 12-month descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study of 259 evacuated women. The average age was 28.8 ± 7 with extremes ranging from 15 to 44 years. Most of the women were single (81.5%), accompanied by medical staff (78.8%), and had a venous approach (81.9%). The means of transfer used were ambulance (78.8%) and motorbike (11.6%). The transfer time was less than one hour (40.9%). The reasons for referral were consistent with the definitive diagnoses (64.5%) and diagnostic errors were noted (35.5%). The majority of patients were treated surgically (77.6%). We recorded maternal death (7.7%), due to unqualified personnel, transfer time, and poor general and haemodynamic condition (P < 0.05). The causes of death were abortion, ectopic pregnancy, arterial hypertension and post-partum haemorrhage (P = 0.014). Fresh stillbirths (14.9%), newborns transferred to neonatology (57.7%). Counter-referrals were assured (46.7%). Reducing diagnostic errors and late evacuations, as well as ongoing training for providers in peripheral health facilities on the signs of serious obstetric and neonatal emergencies will help to reduce the frequency of evacuations.展开更多
BACKGROUND Dysphagia requires prompt evaluation but data regarding referral-to-assessment intervals and its association with outcomes in tertiary care are scarce,especially in Saudi Arabia.AIM To investigate the asses...BACKGROUND Dysphagia requires prompt evaluation but data regarding referral-to-assessment intervals and its association with outcomes in tertiary care are scarce,especially in Saudi Arabia.AIM To investigate the assessment and outcome of consecutive dysphagia referrals to a tertiary gastroenterology practice.METHODS This retrospective single-center study analyzed 207 consecutive dysphagia referrals to King Saud Medical City(2022-2023).Data collection included referral timelines,diagnostic investigations,etiologies and outcomes.Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 28.0,employing χ^(2) tests and analysis of variance,with P<0.05 considered statistically significant.RESULTS Total 168 patients included in this study(mean age 45.7±17.7 years,50% male),referral delays>2 weeks occurred in 44%for clinical assessment and 50%for endoscopy.Gastroesophageal reflux disease was most common(45.2%),followed by eosinophilic esophagitis(14.8%)and malignancy(6.5%).Patients receiving endoscopy within 2 weeks showed an 84.6%improvement,compared to 76.0%with delayed referral(P=0.012).All malignant cases were referred within 2 weeks,compared to 52.7% of non-malignant cases(P=0.013).However,67%of the malignant cases worsened,and 33%died.CONCLUSION Early endoscopy within 2 weeks provides significant benefit.Optimised management of dysphagia should consist of more direct referral pathways.展开更多
With the increasing prevalence of mental disorders,regional mental health service systems face challenges including uneven resource distribution,inefficient referral pathways,and fragmented information.To address thes...With the increasing prevalence of mental disorders,regional mental health service systems face challenges including uneven resource distribution,inefficient referral pathways,and fragmented information.To address these issues,a platform-based bidirectional referral model centered on a municipal psychiatric specialty hospital was developed and implemented,linking community hospitals and county-level psychiatric departments.A unified regional mental health information platform was used to integrate patient data.Community hospitals conducted preliminary screening,county-level psychiatric departments performed referral assessment,and the municipal psychiatric specialty hospital made centralized evaluation and admission decisions.The implementation results demonstrated standardized screening processes,clearer referral pathways,reduced unnecessary hospitalizations,improved accuracy of patient admission,and enhanced mental health service capacity at the primary care level.This model contributes to optimizing mental health resource allocation and improving the efficiency of tiered mental health services.展开更多
BACKGROUND Not all neuropsychiatric(NP)manifestations in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)are secondary to lupus.The clarification of the cause of NP symptoms influences therapeutic strategies for SLE.AI...BACKGROUND Not all neuropsychiatric(NP)manifestations in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)are secondary to lupus.The clarification of the cause of NP symptoms influences therapeutic strategies for SLE.AIM To understand the attribution of psychiatric manifestations in a cohort of Chinese patients with SLE.METHODS This retrospective single-center study analyzed 160 inpatient medical records.Clinical diagnosis,which is considered the gold standard,was used to divide the subjects into a psychiatric SLE(PSLE)group(G1)and a secondary psychiatric symptoms group(G2).Clinical features were compared between these two groups.The sensitivity and specificity of the Italian attribution model were explored.RESULTS A total of 171 psychiatric syndromes were recorded in 138 patients,including 87 cases of acute confusional state,40 cases of cognitive dysfunction,18 cases of psychosis,and 13 cases each of depressive disorder and mania or hypomania.A total of 141(82.5%)syndromes were attributed to SLE.In contrast to G2 patients,G1 patients had higher SLE Disease Activity Index-2000 scores(21 vs 12,P=0.001),a lower prevalence of anti-beta-2-glycoprotein 1 antibodies(8.6%vs 25.9%,P=0.036),and a higher prevalence of anti-ribosomal ribonucleoprotein particle(rRNP)antibodies(39.0%vs 22.2%,P=0.045).The Italian attribution model exhibited a sensitivity of 95.0%and a specificity of 70.0%when the threshold value was set at 7.CONCLUSION Patients with PSLE exhibited increased disease activity.There is a correlation between PSLE and anti-rRNP antibodies.The Italian model effectively assesses multiple psychiatric manifestations in Chinese SLE patients who present with NP symptoms.展开更多
Alcohol use has contributed to large disease burdens,and alcohol-related problems are prevalent among patients in general hospitals and primary care settings.This review aims to deepen the understanding of screening,i...Alcohol use has contributed to large disease burdens,and alcohol-related problems are prevalent among patients in general hospitals and primary care settings.This review aims to deepen the understanding of screening,intervention,and treatment referral for alcohol-related problems in these settings.We searched the literature published in English from PubMed,ScienceDirect,and the World Health Organization website.We found that while a series of screening tools can be used,screening rates were low.The awareness of screening should be strengthened.Brief interventions and pharmacotherapy are the two main methods used in general hospitals and primary care settings,with complementary and alternative medicine considered under the framework of integrative medicine.Individuals with severe alcohol-related problems or alcohol use disorders should be referred to specialty treatment for alcohol abuse,but referral is sometimes ignored.A gap exists between general hospitals/primary care facilities and specialized alcohol-related treatment providers.In conclusion,screening,intervention,and referral to treatment comprise a continuum for patients with alcohol-related problems.Opportunities to prevent and manage these problems in general hospitals and primary care settings are abundant,and taking action will promote the addressing of this public health issue.展开更多
Objective To examine general practitioners’(GPs)referral patterns to allied health services for people with dementia compared with those without dementia across two large Australian Primary Health Networks(PHNs).Desi...Objective To examine general practitioners’(GPs)referral patterns to allied health services for people with dementia compared with those without dementia across two large Australian Primary Health Networks(PHNs).Design A retrospective cohort study using routinely collected general practice data.Logistic regression was used to compare odds of allied health referrals,adjusting for age,sex and socioeconomic status.Setting De-identified patient and episode activity data from 537 GP practices across two PHNs in Australia between 2018 and 2023.Participants Data from 1153304 patients and 28667517 GP episodes of care were analysed.After merging records,693328 unique patients were identified,including 16610 patients with dementia.Subcohorts included patients with dementia,stroke,Parkinson’s disease and combinations of these conditions.Results The dementia cohort(n=16610)had a similar overall allied health referral rate(36.1%)to the control cohort(n=48977)(35.4%).Patients with dementia only were significantly less likely to receive any allied health referral compared with those with stroke(adjusted OR(aOR)0.76,95%CI 0.72 to 0.80;p<0.001)or Parkinson’s disease(aOR 0.72,95%CI 0.66 to 0.78;p<0.001).Those with dementia and stroke were also less likely to receive referrals than those with stroke only(aOR 0.71,95%CI 0.61 to 0.82;p<0.001).No significant difference was found between dementia with Parkinson’s and Parkinson’s only groups(p=0.48).Patients with dementia were consistently less likely to be referred to key allied health services(p<0.05).Conclusion Despite strong evidence supporting allied health interventions for dementia,referral rates remain comparatively low.Enhancing GP referral resources and education,integrating dementia-specific care pathways and implementing supportive policy changes are needed to improve access and equity in dementia care.展开更多
AIM: Prospective evaluation of repeat endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for failed Schutz grade 1 biliary cannulation in a high-volume center. METHODS: Prospective intention-to-treat analysis of pa...AIM: Prospective evaluation of repeat endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for failed Schutz grade 1 biliary cannulation in a high-volume center. METHODS: Prospective intention-to-treat analysis of patients referred for biliary cannulation following recent unsuccessful ERCP. RESULTS: Fifty-one patients (35 female; mean age: 62.5 years; age range: 40-87 years) with previous failed biliary cannulation were referred for repeat ERCP. The indication for ERCP was primarily choledocholithiasis (45%) or pancreatic malignancy (18%). Successful biliary can- nulation was 100%. The precut needle knife sphincterotomy (NKS) rate was 27.4%. Complications occurred in 3.9% (post-ERCP pancreatitis). An identif iable reason for initial unsuccessful biliary cannulation was present in 55% of cases. Compared to a cohort of 940 nave pa-pilla patients (female 61%; mean age: 59.9 years; age range: 18-94 years) who required sphincterotomy over the same time period, there was no statistical difference in the cannulation success rate (100% vs 98%) or postERCP pancreatitis (3.1% vs 3.9%). Precut NKS use was more frequent (27.4% vs 12.7%) (P = 0.017). CONCLUSION: Referral to a high-volume center following unsuccessful ERCP is associated with high technical success, with a favorable complication rate, compared to routine ERCP procedures.展开更多
The place of liver transplantation in the treatment of severe iatrogenic liver injuries has not yet been widely discussed in the literature. Bile duct injuries during cholecystectomy represent the leading cause of liv...The place of liver transplantation in the treatment of severe iatrogenic liver injuries has not yet been widely discussed in the literature. Bile duct injuries during cholecystectomy represent the leading cause of liver transplantation in this setting, while other indications after abdominal surgery are less common. Urgent liver transplantation for the treatment of severe iatrogenic liver injury may-represent a surgical challenge requiring technically difficult and time consuming procedures. A debate is ongoing on the need for centralization of complex surgery in tertiary referral centers. The early referral of patients with severe iatrogenic liver injuries to a tertiary center with experienced hepato-pancreatobiliary and transplant surgery has emerged as the best treatment of care. Despite widespread interest in the use of liver transplantation as a treatment option for severe iatrogenic injuries, reported experiences indicate few liver transplants are performed. This review analyzes the literature on liver transplantation after hepatic injury and discusses our own experience along with surgical advances and future prospects in this uncommon transplant setting.展开更多
AIM:To evaluate the main factors associated with mortality in patients undergoing surgery for perforated peptic ulcer referred to an academic department of general surgery in a large southern Italian city. METHODS:One...AIM:To evaluate the main factors associated with mortality in patients undergoing surgery for perforated peptic ulcer referred to an academic department of general surgery in a large southern Italian city. METHODS:One hundred and forty-nine consecutive patients (M:F ratio=110:39,mean age 52 yrs,range 16-95) with peptic ulcer disease were investigated for clinical history (including age,sex,previous history of peptic ulcer,associated diseases,delayed abdominal surgery,ulcer site,operation type,shock on admission,postoperative general complications, and intra-abdominal and/or wound infections),serum analyses and radiological findings. RESULTS:The overall mortality rate was 4.0%.Among all factors,an age above 65 years,one or more associated diseases,delayed abdominal surgery,shock on admission, postoperative abdominal complications and/or wound infections,were significantly associated (x^2) with increased mortality in patients undergoing surgery (0.0001<P<0.03). CONCLUSION:Factors such as concomitant diseases,shock on admission,delayed surgery,and postoperative abdominal and wound infections are significantly associated with fatal outcomes and need careful evaluation within the general workup of patients admitted for perforated peptic ulcer.展开更多
Our study was to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of M.tuberculosis from a national tuberculosis referral center in China. All strains isolated from TB patients, were genotyped by the RD105 deletion, 8 ...Our study was to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of M.tuberculosis from a national tuberculosis referral center in China. All strains isolated from TB patients, were genotyped by the RD105 deletion, 8 and 51 SNP loci and VNTR. The high differentiation SNPs of modern Beijing strains were analyzed for protein function and structure. 413 M. tuberculosis were included. Of 379 Beijing lineage M. tuberculosis, ＇modern＇ and ＇ancient＇ strains respectively represented 85.5% （324/379） and 14.5% （55/379）. Rv2494 （V48A） and Rv0245 （Sl03F） were confirmed as high differentiation SNPs associated with modern strains. In a word, Modern Beijing lineage M.tuberculosis was dominant and the structural models suggested that modern sub-lineage may more easily survive in ＇extreme＇ host condition.展开更多
AIM:To combine community and hospital services inorder to enable improvements in patient management,an integrated gastroenterology service(IGS)was established.METHODS:Referral patterns to specialist clinics were optim...AIM:To combine community and hospital services inorder to enable improvements in patient management,an integrated gastroenterology service(IGS)was established.METHODS:Referral patterns to specialist clinics were optimized;open access route for endoscopic procedures(including esophago-gastro-duodenoscopy,sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy)was established;family physicians’knowledge and confidence were enhanced;direct communication lines between experts and primary care physicians were opened.Continuing education,guidelines and agreed instructions for referral were promoted by the IGS.Six quality indicators were developed by the Delphi method,rigorously designed and regularly monitored.Improvement was assessed by comparing 2010,2011 and 2012 indicators.RESULTS:An integrated delivery system in a specific medical field may provide a solution to a fragmented healthcare system impaired by a lack of coordination.In this paper we describe a new integrated gastroenterology service established in April 2010.Waiting time for procedures decreased:3 mo in April 30th 2010 to 3 wk in April 30th 2011and stayed between 1-3 wk till December 30th 2012.Average cost for patient’s visit decreased from 691 to638 NIS(a decrease of 7.6%).Six health indicators were improved significantly comparing 2010 to 2012,2.5%to 67.5%:Bone densitometry for patients with inflammatory bowel disease,preventive medications for high risk patients on aspirin/NSAIDs,colonoscopy following positive fecal occult blood test,gastroscopy in Barrett’s esophagus,documentation of family history of colorectal cancer,and colonoscopy in patients with a family history of colorectal cancer.CONCLUSION:Establishment of an IGS was found to effectively improve quality of care,while being costeffective.展开更多
To describe and analyze the factors affecting the referral of presumptive tuberculosis patients between health-care facilities that are not affiliated with the National TB Control Program （NTP） and NTP-designated me...To describe and analyze the factors affecting the referral of presumptive tuberculosis patients between health-care facilities that are not affiliated with the National TB Control Program （NTP） and NTP-designated medical facilities in China, we carried out a retrospective study based on data collected in the Tuberculosis Information Management System in 2015. Out of 324,221 presumptive pulmonary tuberculosis （PTB） cases reported by non-NTP health-care facilities, 302,006 （93.1%） reported cases successfully arrived at designated medical facilities and 22,215 cases （6.9%） were lost to follow-up. The arrival rate of presumptive cases among male patients （92.9%） was slightly lower than that among female ones （93.7%）, and this difference is statistically significant. The majority （73.3%） of reported cases were local permanent residents. Migrants have a higher risk of being lost to follow-up compared with local residents （adjusted odds ratios 4.126 and 5.003, respectively）. Compared with farmers and herdsmen, pre-school children, unemployed laborers, retirees, and people with other occupations （adjusted odds ratios 2.361, 1.274, 1.068, and 1.993, respectively） had higher rates of loss to follow-up during the referral and tracing processes. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that the high referral rate of presumptive TB cases from non-NTP health-care facilities to designated medical facilities in China is due to implementation of effective active case identification strategies. In addition, migrant populations, pre-school children, unemployed laborers, and retirees were identified as high-risk groups that contribute to the loss to follow-up.展开更多
Outcomes associated with magnetic sphincter augmentation(MSA)in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease(GERD)have been reported,however the optimal population for MSA and the related patient care pathways have n...Outcomes associated with magnetic sphincter augmentation(MSA)in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease(GERD)have been reported,however the optimal population for MSA and the related patient care pathways have not been summarized.This Minireview presents evidence that describes the optimal patient population for MSA,delineates diagnostics to identify these patients,and outlines opportunities for improving GERD patient care pathways.Relevant publications from MEDLINE/EMBASE and guidelines were identified from 2000-2018.Clinical experts contextualized the evidence based on clinical experience.The optimal MSA population may be the 2.2-2.4%of GERD patients who,despite optimal medical management,continue experiencing symptoms of heartburn and/or uncontrolled regurgitation,have abnormal pH,and have intact esophageal function as determined by high resolution manometry.Diagnostic work-ups include ambulatory pH monitoring,high-resolution manometry,barium swallow,and esophagogastroduodenoscopy.GERD patients may present with a range of typical or atypical symptoms.In addition to primary care providers(PCPs)and gastroenterologists(GIs),other specialties involved may include otolaryngologists,allergists,pulmonologists,among others.Objective diagnostic testing is required to ascertain surgical necessity for GERD.Current referral pathways for GERD management are suboptimal.Opportunities exist for enabling patients,PCPs,GIs,and surgeons to act as a team in developing evidence-based optimal care plans.展开更多
Liver transplantation is indicated in patients with acute liver failure,decompensated cirrhosis,hepatocellular carcinoma and rare liver-based genetic defects that trigger damage of other organs.Early referral to a tra...Liver transplantation is indicated in patients with acute liver failure,decompensated cirrhosis,hepatocellular carcinoma and rare liver-based genetic defects that trigger damage of other organs.Early referral to a transplant center is crucial in acute liver failure due to the high mortality with medical therapy and its unpredictable evolution.Referral to a transplant center should be considered when at least one complication of cirrhosis occurs during its natural history.However,because of the shortage of organ donors and the short-term mortality after liver transplantation on one hand and the possibility of managing the complications of cirrhosis with other treatments on the other,patients are carefully selected by the transplant center to ensure that transplantation is indicated and that there are no medical,surgical and psychological contraindications.Patients approved for transplantation are placed on the transplant waiting list and prioritized according to disease severity.Thus,the appropriate timing of transplantation depends on recipient disease severity and,although this is still a matter of debate,also on donor quality.These two variables are known to determine the "transplant benefit"(i.e.,when the expected patient survival is better with,than without,transplantation) and should guide donor allocation.展开更多
AIM To investigate the effects of direct to colonoscopy pathways on information seeking behaviors and anxiety among colonoscopy-na?ve patients.METHODS Colonoscopy-na?ve patients at two tertiary care hospitals complete...AIM To investigate the effects of direct to colonoscopy pathways on information seeking behaviors and anxiety among colonoscopy-na?ve patients.METHODS Colonoscopy-na?ve patients at two tertiary care hospitals completed a survey immediately prior to their scheduled outpatient procedure and before receiving sedation.Survey items included clinical pathway(direct or consult),procedure indication(cancer screening or symptom investigation),telephone and written contact from the physician endoscopist office,information sources,and pre-procedure anxiety.Participants reported pre-procedure anxiety using a 10 point scale anchored by "very relaxed"(1) and "very nervous"(10).At least three months following the procedure,patient medical records were reviewed to determine sedative dose,procedure indications and any adverse events.The primary comparison was between the direct and consult pathways.Given the very different implications,a secondary analysis considering the patient-reported indication for the procedure(symptoms or screening).Effects of pathway(direct vs consult) were compared both within and between the screening and symptom subgroups.RESULTS Of 409 patients who completed the survey,34% followed a direct pathway.Indications for colonoscopy were similar in each group.The majority of the participants were women(58%),married(61%),and internet users(81%).The most important information source was family physicians(Direct) and specialist physicians(Consult).Use of other information sources,including the internet(20% vs 18%) and Direct family and friends(64% vs 53%),was similar in the Direct and Consult groups,respectively.Only 31% of the 81% who were internet users accessed internet health information.Most sought fundamental information such as what a colonoscopy is or why it is done.Pre-procedure anxiety did not differ between care pathways.Those undergoing colonoscopy for symptoms reported greater anxiety [mean 5.3,95%CI: 5.0-5.7(10 point Likert scale)] than those for screening colonoscopy(4.3,95%CI: 3.9-4.7).CONCLUSION Procedure indication(cancer screening or symptom investigation) was more closely associated with information seeking behaviors and pre-procedure anxiety than care pathway.展开更多
Patients with type II diabetes mellitus(T2DM)and hypertension(HTN)are at increased threat for long experiencing various problems related to medicine as they frequently received different medications for managing their...Patients with type II diabetes mellitus(T2DM)and hypertension(HTN)are at increased threat for long experiencing various problems related to medicine as they frequently received different medications for managing their condition.Recently,there were no studies done locally on drug-related problems(DRPs)among T2DM patients with HTN.Thus,this study aims to assess the DRPs among T2DM patients with HTN admitted at Kibuye Referral Hospital(KRH).DRPs were drug safety problems,drug effectiveness problems and other drug problems.Methods:A retrospective cross-sectional study involved patients'files with T2DM and HTN,who were admitted at KRH from January 2013 to December 2017.The identification and classification of DRPs were based on pharmaceutical care network Europe(PCNE)classification system version 8.02.A simple random sampling technique was used to choose study participants from the target population.Data that met inclusion and exclusion criteria were analyzed using STATA version 13.The Fisher exact test(bivariate analysis)and logistic regression(multivariate)were used to test association and p-value≤0.05 was considered as statistically significant.An adjusted odd ratio(AOR)with a confidence interval(CI)of 95% was determined using binary logistic regression.Results:Findings revealed that the prevalence of DRPs was 81.29%(313/385)and most of them each patient had at least two DRPs(69.05%).The patients aged above 55 years old were more likely to develop DRPs than those with age below 35 years(AOR=1.2;P=0.02;95%CI:0.2-2.3).Nevertheless,there was no significant association between DRPs and middle age(between 35 and 54 age of old).The patients who consumed more than or equal to 5 drugs were 2.4 times more likely to develop DRPs than those who took the number of medicines less than 5(AOR=15.4;P<0.001;95%CI:8.8-26.8).Also,traditional medicines use(AOR=1.9;P=0.016;95%CI:1.1-3.5)and having drug-related complication(AOR=2.4;P<0.001;95%CI:1.9-3)had shown significant associations.The total causes of DRPs identified were 1626 and most causes of DRPs were arisen from drug use(45.01%)and prescribing(37.83%).The drug/dose selections were the most frequent causes of DRPs(36.97%).Conclusion:Since the prevalence of DRPs were relatively high,various factors influencing DRPs were established and most causes of DRPs were arising from drug use&drug prescribing among T2DM patients with HTN.Early detection needed to enhance patient’s life quality.Conducting studies in other hospitals needed to establish the national planning of DRPs to eradicate DRPs among patients T2DM with HTN.展开更多
文摘Aim: This article investigates the increasing awareness of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) as a potentially serious health risk and highlights the role of the dentist in managing mild to moderate OSA cases which can be improved with an intra-oral mandibular advancement appliance. Methods: Data from referrals to a Prosthodontic Unit from 01-01-2019 to 18-8-2022 were analysed. Results: A total of 240 consecutive referrals to an NHS hospital where a patient was fitted with a mandibular advancement appliance (MAA) were analysed and 160 (67%) were male and 80 (33%) were female. The mean age in years was 52 (2019), 50 (2020), 52 (2021) and 51 (2022). Mean age of male referrals was 51 and female referrals was 53. Conclusion: There are a large number of patients with OSA seeking a dental device and practitioners should be aware of this treatment modality to help the medical team manage OSA. Clinical relevance: Dentists may need to have a greater understanding of OSA and be able to provide MAAs.
文摘AIM:To determine whether a communication instru-ment provided to patients prior to their primary carephysician(PCP)visit initiates a conversation with theirPCP about colorectal cancer screening(CRC-S),impact-ing screening referral rates in fully insured and underin-sured patients.METHODS:A prospective randomized control studywas performed at a single academic center outpatient internal medicine(IRMC,underinsured)and fam-ily medicine(FMRC,insured)resident clinics prior to scheduled visits.In the intervention group,a pamphlet about the benefit of CRC-S and a reminder card were given to patients before the scheduled visit for prompt-ing of CRC-S referral by their PCP.The main outcome measured was frequency of CRC-S referral in each clinic after intervention.RESULTS:In the IRMC,148 patients participated,a control group of 72 patients(40F and 32M)and 76 patients(48F and 28M)in the intervention group.Re-ferrals for CRC-S occurred in 45/72(63%)of control vs 70/76(92%)in the intervention group(P≤0.001).In the FMRC,126 patients participated,66(39F:27M)con-trol and 60(33F:27M)in the intervention group.CRC-S referrals occurred in 47/66(71%)of controls vs 56/60(98%)in the intervention group(P≤0.001).CONCLUSION:Patient initiated physician prompting produced a significant referral increase for CRC-S in un-derinsured and insured patient populations.Additional investigation aimed at increasing CRC-S acceptance is warranted.
文摘Background:To characterize emergency optometrist referrals triaged at a tertiary ophthalmology care center by pathology,physical exam findings,and provisional diagnosis accuracy.Methods:Variables extracted from the patients’charts included date of referral,age,sex,eye(s)under examination,visual acuity(VA)at the time of referral,intraocular pressure(IOP)at the time of the referral,the referring optometrist’s provisional diagnosis,VA at the time of the ophthalmologist consultation,IOP at the time of the ophthalmologist consultation,number of days between referral and ophthalmic consultation,and the ophthalmologist’s diagnosis.Results:After categorizing disease by anatomical location,absolute agreement between optometrist provisional diagnosis and ophthalmologist diagnosis was 60%.A strong correlation was found between optometrist and ophthalmologist VA measurements.IOP measurements were checked less frequently by optometrists.In cases where referral IOP was documented,no significant difference was observed between optometrist and ophthalmologist IOP measures.Conclusions:VA and IOP measurements by optometrists are reliable,but IOP is less frequently checked in the optometry setting.While optometrist referrals correctly localized eye pathology in 60%of cases,posterior pathology was missed in two cases of retinal tear and retinal detachment.
基金Supported by STI2030-Major Projects,No.2021ZD0202001Capital Funds for Health Improvement and Research,No.CFH 2022-2-4012.
文摘BACKGROUND Systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)can affect multiple organs or systems.The involvement of the central nervous system can result in the manifestation of epilepsy,an acute confusional state,and other rare neuropsychiatric presentations,such as catatonia.CASE SUMMARY We present a case of an adolescent male patient with first-onset SLE who presented with neuropsychiatric symptoms including epilepsy and delirium.The initial utilization of olanzapine to alleviate symptoms of agitation precipitated the emergence of catatonia,which was mitigated by discontinuing olanzapine and supplementing with lorazepam.In this case,whether the catatonia was secondary to the utilization of antipsychotics or to an organic disease is a question that warrants differential diagnosis.CONCLUSION Multidisciplinary collaborative management is the cornerstone for the successful management of severe cases of SLE.
文摘Obstetric complications are the main cause of mortality and morbidity. Many factors limit women’s access to the quality care they need to reduce this mortality. We proposed to analyse our referral system to identify certain factors that may limit its proper functioning and contribute to maternal deaths. This was a 12-month descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study of 259 evacuated women. The average age was 28.8 ± 7 with extremes ranging from 15 to 44 years. Most of the women were single (81.5%), accompanied by medical staff (78.8%), and had a venous approach (81.9%). The means of transfer used were ambulance (78.8%) and motorbike (11.6%). The transfer time was less than one hour (40.9%). The reasons for referral were consistent with the definitive diagnoses (64.5%) and diagnostic errors were noted (35.5%). The majority of patients were treated surgically (77.6%). We recorded maternal death (7.7%), due to unqualified personnel, transfer time, and poor general and haemodynamic condition (P < 0.05). The causes of death were abortion, ectopic pregnancy, arterial hypertension and post-partum haemorrhage (P = 0.014). Fresh stillbirths (14.9%), newborns transferred to neonatology (57.7%). Counter-referrals were assured (46.7%). Reducing diagnostic errors and late evacuations, as well as ongoing training for providers in peripheral health facilities on the signs of serious obstetric and neonatal emergencies will help to reduce the frequency of evacuations.
文摘BACKGROUND Dysphagia requires prompt evaluation but data regarding referral-to-assessment intervals and its association with outcomes in tertiary care are scarce,especially in Saudi Arabia.AIM To investigate the assessment and outcome of consecutive dysphagia referrals to a tertiary gastroenterology practice.METHODS This retrospective single-center study analyzed 207 consecutive dysphagia referrals to King Saud Medical City(2022-2023).Data collection included referral timelines,diagnostic investigations,etiologies and outcomes.Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 28.0,employing χ^(2) tests and analysis of variance,with P<0.05 considered statistically significant.RESULTS Total 168 patients included in this study(mean age 45.7±17.7 years,50% male),referral delays>2 weeks occurred in 44%for clinical assessment and 50%for endoscopy.Gastroesophageal reflux disease was most common(45.2%),followed by eosinophilic esophagitis(14.8%)and malignancy(6.5%).Patients receiving endoscopy within 2 weeks showed an 84.6%improvement,compared to 76.0%with delayed referral(P=0.012).All malignant cases were referred within 2 weeks,compared to 52.7% of non-malignant cases(P=0.013).However,67%of the malignant cases worsened,and 33%died.CONCLUSION Early endoscopy within 2 weeks provides significant benefit.Optimised management of dysphagia should consist of more direct referral pathways.
文摘With the increasing prevalence of mental disorders,regional mental health service systems face challenges including uneven resource distribution,inefficient referral pathways,and fragmented information.To address these issues,a platform-based bidirectional referral model centered on a municipal psychiatric specialty hospital was developed and implemented,linking community hospitals and county-level psychiatric departments.A unified regional mental health information platform was used to integrate patient data.Community hospitals conducted preliminary screening,county-level psychiatric departments performed referral assessment,and the municipal psychiatric specialty hospital made centralized evaluation and admission decisions.The implementation results demonstrated standardized screening processes,clearer referral pathways,reduced unnecessary hospitalizations,improved accuracy of patient admission,and enhanced mental health service capacity at the primary care level.This model contributes to optimizing mental health resource allocation and improving the efficiency of tiered mental health services.
基金Supported by STI2030-Major Projects,No.2021ZD0202001National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.T2341003Capital Funds for Health Improvement and Research,No.CFH 2022-2-4012.
文摘BACKGROUND Not all neuropsychiatric(NP)manifestations in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)are secondary to lupus.The clarification of the cause of NP symptoms influences therapeutic strategies for SLE.AIM To understand the attribution of psychiatric manifestations in a cohort of Chinese patients with SLE.METHODS This retrospective single-center study analyzed 160 inpatient medical records.Clinical diagnosis,which is considered the gold standard,was used to divide the subjects into a psychiatric SLE(PSLE)group(G1)and a secondary psychiatric symptoms group(G2).Clinical features were compared between these two groups.The sensitivity and specificity of the Italian attribution model were explored.RESULTS A total of 171 psychiatric syndromes were recorded in 138 patients,including 87 cases of acute confusional state,40 cases of cognitive dysfunction,18 cases of psychosis,and 13 cases each of depressive disorder and mania or hypomania.A total of 141(82.5%)syndromes were attributed to SLE.In contrast to G2 patients,G1 patients had higher SLE Disease Activity Index-2000 scores(21 vs 12,P=0.001),a lower prevalence of anti-beta-2-glycoprotein 1 antibodies(8.6%vs 25.9%,P=0.036),and a higher prevalence of anti-ribosomal ribonucleoprotein particle(rRNP)antibodies(39.0%vs 22.2%,P=0.045).The Italian attribution model exhibited a sensitivity of 95.0%and a specificity of 70.0%when the threshold value was set at 7.CONCLUSION Patients with PSLE exhibited increased disease activity.There is a correlation between PSLE and anti-rRNP antibodies.The Italian model effectively assesses multiple psychiatric manifestations in Chinese SLE patients who present with NP symptoms.
基金Supported by Shandong Province Medical and Health Technology Development Plan Project,No.202203090753.
文摘Alcohol use has contributed to large disease burdens,and alcohol-related problems are prevalent among patients in general hospitals and primary care settings.This review aims to deepen the understanding of screening,intervention,and treatment referral for alcohol-related problems in these settings.We searched the literature published in English from PubMed,ScienceDirect,and the World Health Organization website.We found that while a series of screening tools can be used,screening rates were low.The awareness of screening should be strengthened.Brief interventions and pharmacotherapy are the two main methods used in general hospitals and primary care settings,with complementary and alternative medicine considered under the framework of integrative medicine.Individuals with severe alcohol-related problems or alcohol use disorders should be referred to specialty treatment for alcohol abuse,but referral is sometimes ignored.A gap exists between general hospitals/primary care facilities and specialized alcohol-related treatment providers.In conclusion,screening,intervention,and referral to treatment comprise a continuum for patients with alcohol-related problems.Opportunities to prevent and manage these problems in general hospitals and primary care settings are abundant,and taking action will promote the addressing of this public health issue.
基金funded by the Australian Government Medical Research Future Fund(MRFF),Grant number 2015947.
文摘Objective To examine general practitioners’(GPs)referral patterns to allied health services for people with dementia compared with those without dementia across two large Australian Primary Health Networks(PHNs).Design A retrospective cohort study using routinely collected general practice data.Logistic regression was used to compare odds of allied health referrals,adjusting for age,sex and socioeconomic status.Setting De-identified patient and episode activity data from 537 GP practices across two PHNs in Australia between 2018 and 2023.Participants Data from 1153304 patients and 28667517 GP episodes of care were analysed.After merging records,693328 unique patients were identified,including 16610 patients with dementia.Subcohorts included patients with dementia,stroke,Parkinson’s disease and combinations of these conditions.Results The dementia cohort(n=16610)had a similar overall allied health referral rate(36.1%)to the control cohort(n=48977)(35.4%).Patients with dementia only were significantly less likely to receive any allied health referral compared with those with stroke(adjusted OR(aOR)0.76,95%CI 0.72 to 0.80;p<0.001)or Parkinson’s disease(aOR 0.72,95%CI 0.66 to 0.78;p<0.001).Those with dementia and stroke were also less likely to receive referrals than those with stroke only(aOR 0.71,95%CI 0.61 to 0.82;p<0.001).No significant difference was found between dementia with Parkinson’s and Parkinson’s only groups(p=0.48).Patients with dementia were consistently less likely to be referred to key allied health services(p<0.05).Conclusion Despite strong evidence supporting allied health interventions for dementia,referral rates remain comparatively low.Enhancing GP referral resources and education,integrating dementia-specific care pathways and implementing supportive policy changes are needed to improve access and equity in dementia care.
文摘AIM: Prospective evaluation of repeat endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for failed Schutz grade 1 biliary cannulation in a high-volume center. METHODS: Prospective intention-to-treat analysis of patients referred for biliary cannulation following recent unsuccessful ERCP. RESULTS: Fifty-one patients (35 female; mean age: 62.5 years; age range: 40-87 years) with previous failed biliary cannulation were referred for repeat ERCP. The indication for ERCP was primarily choledocholithiasis (45%) or pancreatic malignancy (18%). Successful biliary can- nulation was 100%. The precut needle knife sphincterotomy (NKS) rate was 27.4%. Complications occurred in 3.9% (post-ERCP pancreatitis). An identif iable reason for initial unsuccessful biliary cannulation was present in 55% of cases. Compared to a cohort of 940 nave pa-pilla patients (female 61%; mean age: 59.9 years; age range: 18-94 years) who required sphincterotomy over the same time period, there was no statistical difference in the cannulation success rate (100% vs 98%) or postERCP pancreatitis (3.1% vs 3.9%). Precut NKS use was more frequent (27.4% vs 12.7%) (P = 0.017). CONCLUSION: Referral to a high-volume center following unsuccessful ERCP is associated with high technical success, with a favorable complication rate, compared to routine ERCP procedures.
文摘The place of liver transplantation in the treatment of severe iatrogenic liver injuries has not yet been widely discussed in the literature. Bile duct injuries during cholecystectomy represent the leading cause of liver transplantation in this setting, while other indications after abdominal surgery are less common. Urgent liver transplantation for the treatment of severe iatrogenic liver injury may-represent a surgical challenge requiring technically difficult and time consuming procedures. A debate is ongoing on the need for centralization of complex surgery in tertiary referral centers. The early referral of patients with severe iatrogenic liver injuries to a tertiary center with experienced hepato-pancreatobiliary and transplant surgery has emerged as the best treatment of care. Despite widespread interest in the use of liver transplantation as a treatment option for severe iatrogenic injuries, reported experiences indicate few liver transplants are performed. This review analyzes the literature on liver transplantation after hepatic injury and discusses our own experience along with surgical advances and future prospects in this uncommon transplant setting.
文摘AIM:To evaluate the main factors associated with mortality in patients undergoing surgery for perforated peptic ulcer referred to an academic department of general surgery in a large southern Italian city. METHODS:One hundred and forty-nine consecutive patients (M:F ratio=110:39,mean age 52 yrs,range 16-95) with peptic ulcer disease were investigated for clinical history (including age,sex,previous history of peptic ulcer,associated diseases,delayed abdominal surgery,ulcer site,operation type,shock on admission,postoperative general complications, and intra-abdominal and/or wound infections),serum analyses and radiological findings. RESULTS:The overall mortality rate was 4.0%.Among all factors,an age above 65 years,one or more associated diseases,delayed abdominal surgery,shock on admission, postoperative abdominal complications and/or wound infections,were significantly associated (x^2) with increased mortality in patients undergoing surgery (0.0001<P<0.03). CONCLUSION:Factors such as concomitant diseases,shock on admission,delayed surgery,and postoperative abdominal and wound infections are significantly associated with fatal outcomes and need careful evaluation within the general workup of patients admitted for perforated peptic ulcer.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81273144)Beijing Natural Science Foundation Program and Scientific Research Key Program of Beijing Municipal Commission of Education(KZ201510025024)Beijing Municipal Administration of Hospitals Clinical Medicine Development of Special Funding Support(ZYLX201304)
文摘Our study was to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of M.tuberculosis from a national tuberculosis referral center in China. All strains isolated from TB patients, were genotyped by the RD105 deletion, 8 and 51 SNP loci and VNTR. The high differentiation SNPs of modern Beijing strains were analyzed for protein function and structure. 413 M. tuberculosis were included. Of 379 Beijing lineage M. tuberculosis, ＇modern＇ and ＇ancient＇ strains respectively represented 85.5% （324/379） and 14.5% （55/379）. Rv2494 （V48A） and Rv0245 （Sl03F） were confirmed as high differentiation SNPs associated with modern strains. In a word, Modern Beijing lineage M.tuberculosis was dominant and the structural models suggested that modern sub-lineage may more easily survive in ＇extreme＇ host condition.
文摘AIM:To combine community and hospital services inorder to enable improvements in patient management,an integrated gastroenterology service(IGS)was established.METHODS:Referral patterns to specialist clinics were optimized;open access route for endoscopic procedures(including esophago-gastro-duodenoscopy,sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy)was established;family physicians’knowledge and confidence were enhanced;direct communication lines between experts and primary care physicians were opened.Continuing education,guidelines and agreed instructions for referral were promoted by the IGS.Six quality indicators were developed by the Delphi method,rigorously designed and regularly monitored.Improvement was assessed by comparing 2010,2011 and 2012 indicators.RESULTS:An integrated delivery system in a specific medical field may provide a solution to a fragmented healthcare system impaired by a lack of coordination.In this paper we describe a new integrated gastroenterology service established in April 2010.Waiting time for procedures decreased:3 mo in April 30th 2010 to 3 wk in April 30th 2011and stayed between 1-3 wk till December 30th 2012.Average cost for patient’s visit decreased from 691 to638 NIS(a decrease of 7.6%).Six health indicators were improved significantly comparing 2010 to 2012,2.5%to 67.5%:Bone densitometry for patients with inflammatory bowel disease,preventive medications for high risk patients on aspirin/NSAIDs,colonoscopy following positive fecal occult blood test,gastroscopy in Barrett’s esophagus,documentation of family history of colorectal cancer,and colonoscopy in patients with a family history of colorectal cancer.CONCLUSION:Establishment of an IGS was found to effectively improve quality of care,while being costeffective.
基金supported by the World Health Organization Western Pacific TB Operational Research Grant(WPDCC1408653)
文摘To describe and analyze the factors affecting the referral of presumptive tuberculosis patients between health-care facilities that are not affiliated with the National TB Control Program （NTP） and NTP-designated medical facilities in China, we carried out a retrospective study based on data collected in the Tuberculosis Information Management System in 2015. Out of 324,221 presumptive pulmonary tuberculosis （PTB） cases reported by non-NTP health-care facilities, 302,006 （93.1%） reported cases successfully arrived at designated medical facilities and 22,215 cases （6.9%） were lost to follow-up. The arrival rate of presumptive cases among male patients （92.9%） was slightly lower than that among female ones （93.7%）, and this difference is statistically significant. The majority （73.3%） of reported cases were local permanent residents. Migrants have a higher risk of being lost to follow-up compared with local residents （adjusted odds ratios 4.126 and 5.003, respectively）. Compared with farmers and herdsmen, pre-school children, unemployed laborers, retirees, and people with other occupations （adjusted odds ratios 2.361, 1.274, 1.068, and 1.993, respectively） had higher rates of loss to follow-up during the referral and tracing processes. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that the high referral rate of presumptive TB cases from non-NTP health-care facilities to designated medical facilities in China is due to implementation of effective active case identification strategies. In addition, migrant populations, pre-school children, unemployed laborers, and retirees were identified as high-risk groups that contribute to the loss to follow-up.
文摘Outcomes associated with magnetic sphincter augmentation(MSA)in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease(GERD)have been reported,however the optimal population for MSA and the related patient care pathways have not been summarized.This Minireview presents evidence that describes the optimal patient population for MSA,delineates diagnostics to identify these patients,and outlines opportunities for improving GERD patient care pathways.Relevant publications from MEDLINE/EMBASE and guidelines were identified from 2000-2018.Clinical experts contextualized the evidence based on clinical experience.The optimal MSA population may be the 2.2-2.4%of GERD patients who,despite optimal medical management,continue experiencing symptoms of heartburn and/or uncontrolled regurgitation,have abnormal pH,and have intact esophageal function as determined by high resolution manometry.Diagnostic work-ups include ambulatory pH monitoring,high-resolution manometry,barium swallow,and esophagogastroduodenoscopy.GERD patients may present with a range of typical or atypical symptoms.In addition to primary care providers(PCPs)and gastroenterologists(GIs),other specialties involved may include otolaryngologists,allergists,pulmonologists,among others.Objective diagnostic testing is required to ascertain surgical necessity for GERD.Current referral pathways for GERD management are suboptimal.Opportunities exist for enabling patients,PCPs,GIs,and surgeons to act as a team in developing evidence-based optimal care plans.
基金Supported by The ‘‘Consorzio Interuniversitario per i Trapianti’’ and the "Fondazione Onlus Parioli"
文摘Liver transplantation is indicated in patients with acute liver failure,decompensated cirrhosis,hepatocellular carcinoma and rare liver-based genetic defects that trigger damage of other organs.Early referral to a transplant center is crucial in acute liver failure due to the high mortality with medical therapy and its unpredictable evolution.Referral to a transplant center should be considered when at least one complication of cirrhosis occurs during its natural history.However,because of the shortage of organ donors and the short-term mortality after liver transplantation on one hand and the possibility of managing the complications of cirrhosis with other treatments on the other,patients are carefully selected by the transplant center to ensure that transplantation is indicated and that there are no medical,surgical and psychological contraindications.Patients approved for transplantation are placed on the transplant waiting list and prioritized according to disease severity.Thus,the appropriate timing of transplantation depends on recipient disease severity and,although this is still a matter of debate,also on donor quality.These two variables are known to determine the "transplant benefit"(i.e.,when the expected patient survival is better with,than without,transplantation) and should guide donor allocation.
基金Health Sciences Centre Medical Staff Council Resident Research Award
文摘AIM To investigate the effects of direct to colonoscopy pathways on information seeking behaviors and anxiety among colonoscopy-na?ve patients.METHODS Colonoscopy-na?ve patients at two tertiary care hospitals completed a survey immediately prior to their scheduled outpatient procedure and before receiving sedation.Survey items included clinical pathway(direct or consult),procedure indication(cancer screening or symptom investigation),telephone and written contact from the physician endoscopist office,information sources,and pre-procedure anxiety.Participants reported pre-procedure anxiety using a 10 point scale anchored by "very relaxed"(1) and "very nervous"(10).At least three months following the procedure,patient medical records were reviewed to determine sedative dose,procedure indications and any adverse events.The primary comparison was between the direct and consult pathways.Given the very different implications,a secondary analysis considering the patient-reported indication for the procedure(symptoms or screening).Effects of pathway(direct vs consult) were compared both within and between the screening and symptom subgroups.RESULTS Of 409 patients who completed the survey,34% followed a direct pathway.Indications for colonoscopy were similar in each group.The majority of the participants were women(58%),married(61%),and internet users(81%).The most important information source was family physicians(Direct) and specialist physicians(Consult).Use of other information sources,including the internet(20% vs 18%) and Direct family and friends(64% vs 53%),was similar in the Direct and Consult groups,respectively.Only 31% of the 81% who were internet users accessed internet health information.Most sought fundamental information such as what a colonoscopy is or why it is done.Pre-procedure anxiety did not differ between care pathways.Those undergoing colonoscopy for symptoms reported greater anxiety [mean 5.3,95%CI: 5.0-5.7(10 point Likert scale)] than those for screening colonoscopy(4.3,95%CI: 3.9-4.7).CONCLUSION Procedure indication(cancer screening or symptom investigation) was more closely associated with information seeking behaviors and pre-procedure anxiety than care pathway.
文摘Patients with type II diabetes mellitus(T2DM)and hypertension(HTN)are at increased threat for long experiencing various problems related to medicine as they frequently received different medications for managing their condition.Recently,there were no studies done locally on drug-related problems(DRPs)among T2DM patients with HTN.Thus,this study aims to assess the DRPs among T2DM patients with HTN admitted at Kibuye Referral Hospital(KRH).DRPs were drug safety problems,drug effectiveness problems and other drug problems.Methods:A retrospective cross-sectional study involved patients'files with T2DM and HTN,who were admitted at KRH from January 2013 to December 2017.The identification and classification of DRPs were based on pharmaceutical care network Europe(PCNE)classification system version 8.02.A simple random sampling technique was used to choose study participants from the target population.Data that met inclusion and exclusion criteria were analyzed using STATA version 13.The Fisher exact test(bivariate analysis)and logistic regression(multivariate)were used to test association and p-value≤0.05 was considered as statistically significant.An adjusted odd ratio(AOR)with a confidence interval(CI)of 95% was determined using binary logistic regression.Results:Findings revealed that the prevalence of DRPs was 81.29%(313/385)and most of them each patient had at least two DRPs(69.05%).The patients aged above 55 years old were more likely to develop DRPs than those with age below 35 years(AOR=1.2;P=0.02;95%CI:0.2-2.3).Nevertheless,there was no significant association between DRPs and middle age(between 35 and 54 age of old).The patients who consumed more than or equal to 5 drugs were 2.4 times more likely to develop DRPs than those who took the number of medicines less than 5(AOR=15.4;P<0.001;95%CI:8.8-26.8).Also,traditional medicines use(AOR=1.9;P=0.016;95%CI:1.1-3.5)and having drug-related complication(AOR=2.4;P<0.001;95%CI:1.9-3)had shown significant associations.The total causes of DRPs identified were 1626 and most causes of DRPs were arisen from drug use(45.01%)and prescribing(37.83%).The drug/dose selections were the most frequent causes of DRPs(36.97%).Conclusion:Since the prevalence of DRPs were relatively high,various factors influencing DRPs were established and most causes of DRPs were arising from drug use&drug prescribing among T2DM patients with HTN.Early detection needed to enhance patient’s life quality.Conducting studies in other hospitals needed to establish the national planning of DRPs to eradicate DRPs among patients T2DM with HTN.
