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Why you should read this article: • To enhance your awareness of the importance of minimising the risks of infection transmission • To refresh your knowledge of the standard precautions for infection prevention and control • To reflect on the appropriate use of personal protective equipment in clinical practice. Infection prevention and control is crucial to prevent patients and healthcare staff from being harmed by avoidable infections, including healthcare-associated infections. This article outlines the main elements of standard precautions for infection prevention and control, as set out by the World Health Organization. Nurses and other healthcare professionals can use this information to refresh their knowledge of infection prevention and control, understand the appropriate practices that should be adopted to reduce the risk of infection transmission, and increase their awareness of the importance of sustainability and education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Why you should read this article: • To refresh your knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the male urinary system • To familiarise yourself with the procedure for undertaking male urethral catheterisation • To understand how various issues that may occur during catheterisation can be addressed. Rationale and key points: This article provides a step-by-step guide explaining how to prepare for and perform male urinary catheterisation in a safe, effective and supportive manner. Nurses undertaking this procedure must ensure they have the knowledge and skills to do so and work within the limits of their competence. • Urethral catheterisation is an invasive procedure and carries a risk of infection. It should only be undertaken after thorough clinical assessment and when other alternatives have been considered. • The procedure can be anxiety-provoking for the patient, so the nurse should explain what is involved and proceed carefully, while keeping the patient informed throughout. • Due to the risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infection, it is important to regularly review the patient's need to be catheterised and the catheter should be removed as soon as practically possible. Reflective activity: 'How to' articles can help to update your practice and ensure it remains evidence-based. Apply this article to your practice. Reflect on and write a short account of: • How this article might improve your practice when planning and undertaking male urinary catheterisation. • How you could use this information to educate nursing students or your colleagues on the procedure for male urinary catheterisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Why you should read this article: • To refresh your knowledge of the most common healthcare-associated infections and major sources of contamination • To consider how effective decontamination forms a vital aspect of infection prevention and control • To update your understanding of the benefits of applying human factors to nursing procedures to reduce human error. Effective decontamination is a vital aspect of infection prevention and control, and has a crucial role in reducing healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs). Various decontamination methods can be used in healthcare settings to ensure that medical devices, equipment and the clinical environment are safe. It is essential for nurses and other healthcare staff to have adequate knowledge of the decontamination methods and infection prevention and control practices required to prevent HCAIs. This article discusses the most common HCAIs, decontamination methods that can be used, and relevant UK legislation, policies and guidance. It also outlines nurses’ responsibilities in relation to infection prevention and control and the importance of education and training in this area, with a particular focus on integrating human factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Why you should read this article: • To recognise the potential benefits of using online spaces in the control of communicable diseases • To consider how to address challenges such as the spread of health misinformation online • To learn about a framework and resources you could use in your practice to navigate online spaces effectively. The digital revolution has significantly altered healthcare, including communicable disease control, with online spaces emerging as vital tools in preventing, identifying and controlling the spread of diseases. However, healthcare professionals, including nurses, need to find a balance between harnessing the benefits of mass communication and mitigating the potentially harmful effects of online misinformation. This article explores the benefits and challenges of using online spaces such as social media platforms in the control of communicable diseases and discusses the potential use of telehealth in reducing the risk of healthcare-associated infection and antimicrobial resistance. The author also describes a framework that nurses can use to explore potential roles and practice in the context of communicable disease control in online spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Marburg virus triggers severe hemorrhagic fever in affected individuals, which ends fatally in approximately 50 % of the cases. Since its initial discovery in 1967 the virus has led to sporadic outbreaks in Africa. One of the carriers includes the Egyptian fruit bat, a widespread species of bats, that resides in colonies in caves. Reports of affected travelers suggest, that in case of fever after returning from the tropics, a variety of serious infections should be considered. Consistent protective measures of medical staff, contact tracing, and on-site diagnostic capabilities are essential to prevent further spread. There is no specific treatment for Marburg virus disease, and vaccines have not been approved thus far. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Why you should read this article: • To recognise the presenting signs and symptoms of cellulitis • To understand the risk factors associated with the development of cellulitis • To enhance your knowledge of what is involved in cellulitis prevention and management. Cellulitis is an acute bacterial infection that affects the deep dermis and surrounding subcutaneous tissue. Although it is a common condition, it is often misdiagnosed because it can mimic a range of conditions that also cause inflamed, red, irritated and painful skin. Such misdiagnoses may lead to unnecessary hospital admissions and antibiotic overuse, with most alternative diagnoses being non-infectious. Undertaking a holistic patient assessment, skin assessment and thorough clinical history is important in the diagnosis of cellulitis, and it is vital to use a collaborative multidisciplinary approach in its acute management and to prevent recurrence. This article defines the term cellulitis and explores its presenting features. The author also discusses the associated risk factors, clinical assessment techniques and effective management strategies, as well as outlining the actions that nurses can take to prevent recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Why you should read this article: • To refresh your knowledge of the causes of, and risk factors for, development of surgical site infections • To be aware of a range of strategies to prevent the development of surgical site infections • To recognise the importance of adopting a holistic approach to prevention and management of surgical site infections Surgical site infections (SSIs) are commonly reported healthcare-acquired infections that can have a detrimental effect on patient outcomes and quality of life. SSIs are associated with longer periods of hospitalisation and increased patient morbidity and mortality. A rigorous approach is required to identify and manage the risk of infection across the preoperative, intraoperative and post-operative phases of care. This article describes the causes of, risk factors for development and signs and symptoms of SSIs. The author emphasises the importance of a collaborative, holistic and multidisciplinary approach to the prevention and management of SSIs, which involves the nurse and other healthcare professionals working in partnership with the patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A quiz concerning inhaling a fungus may have led to this patient's infection including appropriate treatment for the acute management of this patient.

Why you should read this article: • To be aware of the infection prevention and control challenges that nurses may encounter in the community • To consider infection prevention and control measures that you could implement in your practice • To recognise the importance of using an aseptic technique when undertaking certain procedures Managing community-acquired infections remains an ongoing challenge for community nursing teams. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic meant that community nurses had to ensure they were using evidence-based infection prevention and control measures to limit the effects of the pandemic and maintain patient safety. Community environments can be unpredictable, and compared with acute settings nurses will often lack the appropriate resources when visiting patients in their homes or in residential care. This article outlines effective infection prevention and control measures that nurses can implement in the community, such as the appropriate use of personal protective equipment, optimal hand hygiene, safe waste management and adherence to an aseptic technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The two flatworms Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica are the causative agents of fasciolosis, a worldwide zoonosis. Infection occurs via contaminated aquatic vegetables, such as watercress, but also contaminated water or consumption of raw, infested liver. Mostly herbivorous animals are infected, humans rather rarely. Since Fasciola worms are poorly adapted to humans, symptoms do not always occur. However, if the disease pattern develops, the course can be protracted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the management of infectious keratitis, particularly in cases of corneal ulcers, highlighting the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment. Topics covered include the epidemiology of infectious keratitis, methods of diagnosis, including clinical presentation and microbiology workup, and targeted treatment approaches for bacterial keratitis and Acanthamoeba keratitis.

The article discusses the pathophysiology, risk factors and signs and symptoms of wound infection. Topics include differences between acute and chronic wounds, factors that can increase the risk of infection, and prevention and management options for wound infection and the importance of antimicrobial stewardship.

Since the end of 2019 infections with COVID-19 became a constant companion. At the start of the first wave, morphological anomalies in peripheral blood smear have been described. In March and April 2020 peripheral blood smears from COVID-19 patients were evaluated at the University Hospital Regensburg. No COVID-19 specific changes were identified, but a mixed morphological picture composed of signs of viral infection, secondary infections and inflammation with cytokine storm and their consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Why you should read this article: • To recognise the importance of decontamination of the patient environment and shared patient equipment in preventing healthcare-associated infections • To understand the process of infection transmission and environmental contamination in clinical areas • To be aware of the barriers to adherence to infection prevention and control guidance Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) continue to cause patient harm and at increasing rates. Factors contributing to this increase include suboptimal hand hygiene, antimicrobial resistance, and inadequate decontamination of the patient environment and shared patient equipment. To reduce the risk of HAIs and enhance patient safety, it is important that nurses and other healthcare professionals adhere to infection prevention and control guidance, including decontamination procedures. It is also important to identify and address the barriers that can affect adherence to this guidance. This article discusses effective decontamination of the patient environment and non-critical shared patient equipment, the barriers to adhering to guidance and strategies for improving decontamination procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article "Clinical Miscellany" presents a selection of ten articles on topics relevant to the clinical practice of the family physician. One of the articles highlights the importance of personal cholesterol level history in relation to cardiovascular disease. Another article analyzes the link between coffee consumption and the occurrence of tachyarrhythmias, concluding that coffee consumption does not increase the risk of arrhythmias, but may decrease it. Furthermore, evidence has been found suggesting that high coffee consumption may decrease the risk of heart failure. On the other hand, it has been shown that raising the head of the bed can reduce symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux. The approval of aducanumab by the FDA does not necessarily mark a new era in Alzheimer's treatment, as Europe has the final say on its effectiveness. Two phase III clinical studies evaluated this monoclonal antibody in patients with cognitive impairment and mild dementia, showing statistically significant improvements in the high-dose group in one study, but not in the other. The decision of the European Medicines Agency will be crucial in determining the future of this treatment. The article also presents two different studies, one on the prevalence of postural hypotension in different healthcare settings and another on the intensive management of cardiovascular risk factors in high-risk individuals with type 2 diabetes and its relationship with cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy. Two other articles review medications that can cause infections as an adverse reaction and best practices regarding the duration of antimicrobial treatment for common infections in primary care. [Extracted from the article]

The article presents a case study of a 34-year-old male from Venezuela presented to tertiary care center with a two-day history of redness, photophobia and worsening vision in his left eye. It notes the diagnosis of multifocal pigmented macular scars involving the fovea and there was no retinal vasculitis or papillitis at that time. It concludes "Triple therapy" for the treatment of toxoplasmosis and was later started on oral prednisone.

This report provides CDC recommendations to U.S. health care providers regarding treatment, pre-exposure prophylaxis, and postexposure prophylaxis of plague. Yersinia pestis, the bacterium that causes plague, leads to naturally occurring disease in the United States and other regions worldwide and is recognized as a potential bioterrorism weapon. A bioweapon attack with Y. pestis could potentially infect thousands, requiring rapid and informed decision making by clinicians and public health agencies. The U.S. government stockpiles a variety of medical countermeasures to mitigate the effects of a bioterrorism attack (e.g., antimicrobials, antitoxins, and vaccines) for which the 21st Century Cures Act mandates the development of evidence-based guidelines on appropriate use. Guidelines for treatment and postexposure prophylaxis of plague were published in 2000 by a nongovernmental work group; since then, new human clinical data, animal study data, and U.S. Food and Drug Administration approvals of additional countermeasures have become available. To develop a comprehensive set of updated guidelines, CDC conducted a series of systematic literature reviews on human treatment of plague and other relevant topics to collect a broad evidence base for the recommendations in this report. Evidence from CDC reviews and additional sources were presented to subject matter experts during a series of forums. CDC considered individual expert input while developing these guidelines, which provide recommended best practices for treatment and prophylaxis of human plague for both naturally occurring disease and following a bioterrorism attack. The guidelines do not include information on diagnostic testing, triage decisions, or logistics involved in dispensing medical countermeasures. Clinicians and public health officials can use these guidelines to prepare their organizations, hospitals, and communities to respond to a plague mass-casualty event and as a guide for treating patients affected by plague. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Why you should read this article: • To familiarise yourself with the various types of indwelling urinary catheter available • To enhance your knowledge of potential complications of indwelling catheters, such as catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) • To understand the measures that you could implement in your practice to prevent CAUTIs Indwelling urinary catheters are considered an important healthcare intervention for many patients. However, these devices must be used with caution because they are associated with a risk of various potential complications such as catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs), as well as a financial burden for healthcare organisations. This article outlines the various types of indwelling catheter that are available, explains the reasons for their use, and details the care required to prevent associated complications, particularly CAUTIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Why you should read this article: • To enhance your knowledge of the transmission of infections, including the transmission characteristics of organisms, the chain of infection and types of transmission • To enable you to implement effective infection prevention and control measures in your practice, such as the appropriate use of personal protective equipment • To understand how the principles of infection prevention and control can be applied during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic Nurses have a crucial role in infection prevention and control. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has emphasised the importance of controlling the spread of infections, while reinforcing the challenges involved in the care of patients who already have an infection. This article discusses important elements of theory and practice related to infection prevention and control. The author also explores various areas that have come to prominence as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, including measures such as risk assessment, the use of personal protective equipment, the role of surveillance, and outbreak management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on ramp-up of COVID-19 vaccination which can marvel at the ingenuity that brought these vital agents to market in under a year but it also starkly underlines the importance of vaccines as a whole to society. Topics include the eye care providers (ECPs) in hospital settings may be more likely to encounter these cases as part of the patient care team, and the sequelae of primary infections may present to ECPs in all settings, including community-based optometrists.

Why you should read this article: • To remind yourself of the indications for the use of urinary catheters • To learn the steps you should take before, during and after the removal of a catheter • To count towards revalidation as part of your 35 hours of CPD, or you may wish to write a reflective account (UK readers) • To contribute towards your professional development and local registration renewal requirements (non-UK readers) An indwelling urinary (Foley) catheter may be used in the management of various urological conditions, such as intractable incontinence and urinary retention, or as part of treatment regimens such as chemotherapy. Although some catheters may be required for long-term use, healthcare practitioners should regularly assess whether the device is still necessary and if it can be removed. This is because urinary catheters are a highly invasive intervention and their use is associated with a range of potential complications, including healthcare-associated infection and trauma to the neck of the bladder. This article outlines the procedure for the safe removal of a urinary catheter, including the patient care and monitoring required before, during and after this procedure. It also explains the complications that are associated with catheter removal and how these can be prevented and managed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Why you should read this article: • To enhance your awareness of the factors that can affect wound healing and management • To refresh your knowledge of the components of a holistic wound assessment • To count towards revalidation as part of your 35 hours of CPD, or you may wish to write a reflective account (UK readers) • To contribute towards your professional development and local registration renewal requirements (non-UK readers) Wounds have become a significant public health challenge and consume a large amount of healthcare resources. Wounds can have severe negative effects on patients' quality of life, causing psychological and social distress, and may lead to significant periods of lost employment, resulting in financial loss. For nurses to manage wounds effectively, they need to be competent in undertaking holistic wound assessments. This article supports nurses' understanding by providing information on various types of wounds and their differing aetiologies. It also outlines the elements of a wound assessment and discusses some of the challenges that may be encountered during this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Why you should read this article: • To enhance your understanding of the physiological development of sepsis • To learn how to recognise sepsis and commence management • To count towards revalidation as part of your 35 hours of CPD, or you may wish to write a reflective account (UK readers) • To contribute towards your professional development and local registration renewal requirements (non-UK readers) Sepsis is a complex condition defined as one or more life-threatening organ dysfunctions caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. Nurses have a vital role in the early identification of those with or at risk of developing sepsis. Prompt early treatment delivered using care bundles such as the 'sepsis six' can optimise patients' chances of survival and reduce the debilitating effects of this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AUTH Why you should read this article: • To learn methods of improving compliance with hand hygiene measures • To understand when it is appropriate to use soap or alcohol for hand hygiene • To be reminded of the correct technique for undertaking hand hygiene Decontamination using hand hygiene remains one of the most important and effective methods for reducing healthcare-associated infections and cross-infection between patients. In 1860, Florence Nightingale wrote that nurses should wash their hands frequently throughout the day, demonstrating an early awareness of the effectiveness of this simple procedure. The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated that effectively applied hand hygiene is a vital intervention that can be used to prevent the spread of disease. This article details the correct procedure required for effective hand hygiene and emphasises the need for nurses to keep up to date with evidence-based guidelines. The article also outlines the differences between hand decontamination using alcohol-based hand gels and soap and water, and the complex factors that can interfere with effective hand hygiene compliance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AUTH Why you should read this article: • To understand the risks posed by antimicrobial-resistant infections • To familiarise yourself with the principles of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) • To understand how AMS can assist nurses in ensuring the safe and effective use of antibiotics Antimicrobial-resistant infections cause a significant number of deaths globally each year, and the development of resistance is influenced by the frequency of antibiotic use. This article describes an antimicrobial stewardship competency framework for undergraduate nurse education in the UK and internationally, explaining how this framework can be mapped to nurse education and training programmes. It also uses a case study to demonstrate how the competencies can be applied to nursing practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article provides an in-depth explanation of all the conjunctivitis types to encounter and some that are quite rare. It mentions that acute conjunctivitis of all causes is estimated to occur in six million Americans annually; and also mentions that while viral conjunctivitis is more common, bacterial conjunctivitis (BC) can be more of a clinical challenge.

Why you should read this article: • To learn how working as a nurse consultant in infection prevention and control enabled one nurse to fulfil her ambition to make a positive difference to nursing practice • To understand how the skills of a nurse consultant can be used to provide a clear vision and direction, develop evidence-based practice and pace change management, and motivate and inspire others in an organisation • To increase awareness of the value of the role of the nurse consultant, particularly since the sustainability of the post is under threat in the UK The role of nurse consultant was established in 1999 as part of the national 'Making a Difference' nursing strategy. This article explores the qualities and skills required to successfully undertake the role, and uses important aspects of the author's experience of being a clinical nurse consultant in infection prevention and control to illustrate that one of the most strategic clinical leadership roles in healthcare is uniquely innovative and made a difference in the author's organisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The FDA has approved a liquid form of the antibiotic metronidazole for patients who have difficulty swallowing or high taste sensitivities. The oral suspension comes in a strawberry-peppermint flavor and has a 2-year shelf life with no refrigeration requirements. Metronidazole is used to treat trichomoniasis, anaerobic bacterial infections, and amebiasis in adults and pediatric patients. Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues, unpleasant taste in the mouth, and dermatologic and hematopoietic issues. Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by a parasite, while amebiasis is caused by a parasite and is often associated with poor sanitary conditions. [Extracted from the article]

Why you should read this article: • To enhance your awareness of the common causes of medical device-related skin damage • To identify ways to prevent and minimise the occurrence of medical device-related skin damage • To enable you to provide effective patient education on skin care and how to prevent skin damage While medical technology is continuing to improve healthcare outcomes and quality of life for patients, the number of people affected by medical device-related skin damage is increasing. In many cases, life-preserving medical devices used in interventions such as nasal continuous positive airway pressure or oxygen therapy can cause significant skin damage, with negative consequences including pain, infection and delayed hospital discharge. This article outlines methods that nurses can use to minimise the risk of skin damage, focusing primarily on the prevention of pressure ulcers. It also examines how nurses can work collaboratively with patients, manufacturers and regulatory bodies to reduce the risk of medical device-related skin damage in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the case study related to optic neuritis that describes inflammation of the optic nerve, which may be behind the globe, retrobulbar, involve the optic nerve head, papillitis, or sometimes affect the retinal nerve fibres, neuroretinitis. It mentions that optic neuritis can be due to a number of causes such as inflammation, infection, compressive or hereditary.

A comprehensive understanding of infection prevention and control is essential for nurses when seeking to protect themselves, patients, colleagues and the general public from the transmission of infection. Personal protective equipment (PPE) -- such as gloves, aprons and/or gowns, and eye protection -- is an important aspect of infection prevention and control for all healthcare staff, including nurses. Its use requires effective assessment, an understanding of the suitability of various types of PPE in various clinical scenarios, and appropriate application. Understanding the role of PPE will enable nurses to use it appropriately and reduce unnecessary cost, while ensuring that the nurse-patient relationship remains central to care. This article defines PPE and its components, outlines when it should be used and details its optimal application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis C is a blood-borne virus that, if left untreated, can result in significant liver damage and cancer. Most individuals are unaware that they have been infected with the hepatitis C virus and remain asymptomatic, which makes early diagnosis challenging. While the virus will spontaneously clear in some individuals, the majority will develop chronic hepatitis C. This article provides nurses with an overview of hepatitis C and how it is transmitted. It details the available treatments, and examines the challenges involved in early identification and access to treatment, as well as outlining the barriers to treatment and how these can be overcome. This article also discusses the role of the nurse in the management of people with hepatitis C and in addressing their complex needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) was first labelled as a new illness in 1981; it took two more years to discover a causative virus, which was named human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in 1985. Nurses who practised during those times may recall the fear, panic, stigma, ethical dilemmas and refusals to care that were associated with the pandemic. Four decades later, HIV can be considered a long-term condition rather than a life-limiting disease, as a result of developments in treatment. However, the UK has the highest number of people living with the virus since the pandemic was first identified, and there remains a need to challenge stigma and prejudice in relation to HIV and AIDS, to ensure that people receive timely access to HIV testing, treatment and preventive measures. This article explores the role of nurses in all areas of practice in preventing onward transmission of HIV, providing treatment and patient education, and promoting the well-being of people living with HIV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Healthcare-associated infections and antimicrobial resistance are significant threats to public health. As resistant organisms continue to emerge and evolve, and antimicrobial agents become less effective, infection prevention and control remains a vital aspect of maintaining public health, particularly among vulnerable patient groups such as older people and young children. Because of the increasing complexity of healthcare treatments and interventions, patients are becoming increasingly susceptible to healthcare-associated infections and resistant organisms. This article outlines some of the challenges that nurses may [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic wounds are defined as those that have failed to heal ater three months. There are various intrinsic and extrinsic factors that may result in the development of chronic wounds, including comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus and venous insufficiency, and lifestyle factors such as obesity, alcohol consumption and smoking. Chronic wounds represent a significant burden on healthcare resources and can have a negative effect on patients' quality of life. This article discusses the assessment and treatment of non-healing chronic wounds. It examines the normal wound-healing process and the management of chronic wounds, including advanced interventions such as electrical stimulation therapy, negative pressure wound therapy and various dressings. This article does not focus on specific wound types; instead, it provides an overview of the factors that can lead to the development of chronic wounds and how these wounds can be managed in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening condition that is triggered by an infection. Sepsis is an urgent public health issue globally, and is one of the leading causes of death in emergency departments and hospitals. However, consensus definitions of sepsis are imprecise and the incidence costs of the condition are thought to be underestimated. This article discusses the incidence of sepsis globally and nationally, and the effects of the condition. It emphasises the early identification and effective management of sepsis which remain crucial to improving patient outcomes such as morbidity and mortality. It also outlines the nurse's role in providing sepsis care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses study led by Erik Wambre of Benaroya Research Institute revealing group of human immune cells associated with allergic reactions and published in Science Translational Medicine journal. Topics discussed include role of the cells as biomarkers for the effectiveness of allergy therapies, comments from Erik on finding difference between cells involved in allergies and cells involved in fighting infection; and Wayne G. Shreffler of Massachusetts General Hospital on same.

The article discusses universal serial bus (USB) threat vector trends and implications for industrial operators. It presents information on the conficker malware uses USB autorun Trojan types of malware as one method of infection and propagation. It states that anti-virus software deployed in process control facilities needs to be updated daily to be effective. It mentions that ransomware is a threat to industrial facilities.

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. Pathological changes in the circulation reduce the blood supply to major organs, causing them to fail. This may lead to death, therefore rapid recognition and treatment of sepsis is vital. Sepsis research has focused on patients in acute hospital settings. However, most cases of sepsis originate in the community, suggesting that the identification of sepsis and delivery of timely care is necessary before hospital admission. Therefore, it is essential that nurses practising in the community are provided with appropriate sepsis guidelines that can be implemented immediately. The UK Sepsis Trust has developed the General Practice Sepsis Decision Support Tool, which has been designed specifically for use in the community. This article provides an overview of how the tool is used in the community and how it works in conjunction with the 'Sepsis Six' care bundle and care bundles for hospital settings. Changes to the terminology used in relation to sepsis and recent guidelines are also explained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intravenous cannulation is becoming one of the most common procedures in healthcare as increasing numbers of patients are treated for acute and chronic illnesses. The use of an intravenous cannula is not without risk, so it is essential that the healthcare practitioner can justify why the patient requires cannulation, as well as being able to safely manage and provide ongoing care for patients with the device. This article provides an overview of intravenous cannulation, including the selection of appropriate cannulation sites, identification of the different types and sizes of cannula used, and cannula maintenance. Specific complications related to intravenous cannulation are discussed and guidance is given on how to recognise and avoid potential complications to ensure that practice is safe and effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the treatment and management of static wounds with the use of topical corticosteroids. Topics covered include recommendations on how to assess static wounds, the tools that can be used in assessing static wounds, and the recognized factors that cause delayed healing of static wounds. It also discusses the different properties and applications of topical corticosteroids.

The article presents recommendations for the management and prevention of foot ulceration in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Topics covered include the proposed steps for effective management of patients with foot ulceration, details relating to treating wounds caused by foot ulceration, and the systemic factors to be considered in managing foot ulceration. It also discusses how to handle the recurrence of foot ulceration.

Television series "Friends", unvaccinated Phoebe contracts a childhood viral infection and gives it to her paramour. In general, it is a more serious condition in adults than in children.1 VACCINATION WORKS WONDERS Since 1995, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has recommended a live attenuated varicella vaccine to prevent chickenpox in healthy children as a routine vaccine.9 It may also reduce the incidence of chickenpox in healthy unvaccinated children exposed to varicella-zoster virus if administered within 3 days of exposure. [Extracted from the article]

Infectious diarrhoea remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Viruses, bacteria and protozoa are responsible for the majority of infections, which are transmitted most commonly by the faecal-oral route through water, food and person-to-person transmission. Clinical presentation of infectious diarrhoea conforms to three patterns: acute watery diarrhoea; dysentery; and persistent diarrhoea, which can include steatorrhoea. Diagnosis still rests heavily on stool microscopy and culture, although faecal antigen tests and molecular assays are increasingly used. Oral rehydration therapy continues to be the most important supportive intervention, particularly in acute watery diarrhoea, in which death from dehydration and acidosis can be prevented in the vast majority of sufferers. There have been some important advances in the development of new approaches to antibiotic therapy. The non-absorbable antibiotic, rifaximin, is highly effective in the treatment of traveller's diarrhoea and has fewer adverse effects than systemically absorbed antibiotics. The broad-spectrum antimicrobial, nitazoxanide, is often effective in the treatment of cryptosporidiosis but is also effective in giardiasis, amoebiasis and Clostridium difficile infection. There is great interest currently in promicrobial therapies: probiotics, prebiotics and faecal microbial transplantation. Recent meta-analyses suggest that promicrobial therapies have a place in the prophylaxis and treatment of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, especially C. difficile infection, and acute diarrhoea in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article focuses on Hepatitis C virus (HCV), the cause of the most common bloodborne chronic infection in the U.S. Topics discussed include the number of people in the U.S. chronically infected with HCV, the progression of Hepatitis C from acute infection to various complications, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for HCV screening. The role of the pharmacist in identifying those at risk is also mentioned.

The article discusses the challenges in tackling health care-associated infections (HAI), particularly in the U.S., as of late 2014. It presents the definitions of HAI by such organizations as the World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN). Also cited are the factors affecting HAIs, including older age, longer hospital admission, and central catheter placement.