Abstract
InnovAiT is produced on a 3-year cycle. However, many articles do not significantly go out of date in that time. This section of InnovAiT summarizes articles from the previous cycle of InnovAiT that GPs and GPs in training might still find useful today.
Antibiotics in respiratory tract infections – communicating the NICE guidance
Dr Danielle Peet and Dr Chantal Simon
InnovAiT 2010 3(1): 5–12
Before antibiotics, secondary complications of usually self-limiting RTIs, such as pneumonia and quinsy, could be fatal. The discovery and development of penicillin made antibiotics a lifesaver and they became increasingly prescribed for minor, usually self-limiting illness. However, over-prescribing has led to antibiotic resistance. This article summarizes the evidence underpinning the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidance for prescribing antibiotics for upper respiratory tract infections and discusses strategies to use in the GP surgery to communicate these guidelines and reduce unnecessary antibiotic prescribing.
Community-acquired pneumonia
Dr Paul K Wainman and Dr Robin Carr
InnovAiT 2010 3(1): 13–19
Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is defined as an acute infection of the lung parenchyma acquired in the community and is distinct from other ‘chest infections’ such as acute bronchitis and exacerbation of chronic obstructive airways disease. It is the fifth leading cause of death in the UK. This article discusses the prompt diagnosis, and appropriate management and follow-up of CAP in primary care incorporating recommendations from the British Thoracic Society. It also discusses management in children.
Tuberculosis
Dr Diana Treece
InnovAiT 2010 3(1): 20–27
Tuberculosis (TB) is an uncommon diagnosis to make in general practice in the UK, but one of great importance owing to its public health implications. However its prevalence is rising due to increasing migration and rising human immunodeficiency virus rates. This article summarizes the role of the GP in diagnosis, management and prevention of TB in the community.
Haematuria
Dr Emma Nash
InnovAiT 2010 3(1): 30–37
Haematuria is the presence of blood in the urine. It is a common finding in general practice and is often discovered incidentally. This article explores the causes of haematuria, and its investigation and management in primary care.
Conditions affecting the penis
Dr Emma Nash
InnovAiT 2010 3(1): 38–43
Although they do not account for a large proportion of reasons for consultation, knowledge of conditions affecting the penis is important for GPs. The sensitive nature of these conditions means that doctors need to be confident in order to minimize embarrassment to the patient while successfully diagnosing and managing such problems. This article highlights overviews conditions affecting the penis and their management in primary care.
Erectile dysfunction
Dr Gayathri Rabinder
InnovAiT 2010 3(1): 44–47
Erectile dysfunction is a common condition that causes a lot of distress for patients and may have a significant impact on their personal lives and relationships. GPs play a crucial role in assessing and treating the condition and helping with any consequences which have arisen. This article overviews the diagnosis and management of erectile dysfunction in primary care.