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 However, many articles do not significantly go out of date in that time.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 summarises articles from the previous cycle of InnovAiT that GPs and GPs in training might still find useful today.
Pulse oximetry in primary care
Dr Paul Silverston
InnovAiT 2016 9(4): 202–207
Pulse oximetry measures the percentage of oxygenated haemoglobin in the peripheral arterial circulation and is used in the assessment of acutely unwell patients to aid clinical reasoning, detect hypoxia and guide the need for immediate medical care. This article aims to show how pulse oximetry can be used as a screening tool in primary care.
Bronchiectasis
Dr Keziah Austin, Dr Jessica Borrowman and Dr Gary Davies
InnovAiT 2016 9(4): 208–214
Bronchiectasis is an irreversible thickening and dilatation of the airways affecting about 1 in 1000 individuals and leads to chronic cough, recurrent chest infections and persistent sputum production. This article outlines the causes, presentation, investigation and community treatment of bronchiectasis in adults. Early recognition, vaccination, use of bronchodilators, management of exacerbations and patient education are all important in primary care.
Health promotion: Nutrition in primary care
Dr Hinah J Shahid and Dr Ruba J Shahid
InnovAiT 2016 9(4): 221–228
Poor nutrition is a leading cause of poor health in the UK and dietary trends do not follow recommended guidance. This article looks at the benefits of improved nutrition and the role of GPs in promoting a better diet with individual patients, but also in wider roles involving commissioning of healthcare and collaboration with local and national organisations.
Health promotion: Exercise in primary care
Dr Ruba J Shahid and Dr Hinah J Shahid
InnovAiT 2016 9(4): 229–234
Physical inactivity contributes to increased mortality and 25% of individuals worldwide are considered to be physically inactive. This article considers how GPs can identify the inactive, use health promotion models and work with community partners to achieve exercise targets, such as the weekly 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise recommended for most adults.
Childhood obesity
Dr Angela Oliver
InnovAiT 2016 9(4): 235–242
About a third of 2–15-year-olds are overweight or obese and by 2050 it is estimated that two-thirds of children will have an unhealthy weight. This article considers the challenges of treating childhood obesity and the best management strategies for use in primary care. Obesity increases the risk of disease, including type 2 diabetes, asthma, cardiovascular disease, psychological disorders and obstructive sleep apnoea. It is difficult to improve and maintain changes in diet and exercise without recognition of the problem by all family members.
Leadership: Making it happen
Dr D J Morgan-Jones
InnovAiT 2016 9(4): 243–247
With increasing patient demand and pressure on resources there is a need for imaginative, innovative and effective leadership in primary care. Effective leadership can improve care and is recognised in assessment of practices, not least by the Care Quality Commission. Much is made of leadership in the NHS, but information can be difficult to understand. This article outlines some basic principles to take theory into practice, but recognises the importance of team work and effective followership.
Evidence explained: Study designs
Dr Rebecca Fisher
InnovAiT 2016 9(4): 250–251
This short article considers the different study designs used to answer different clinical questions, useful for the Applied Knowledge Test if not for the practice of evidence-based medicine.