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Candida albicans is the most prevalent human fungal commensal organism and is reported to be the most frequent aetiological organism responsible for infection associated with incontinence-associated dermatitis. However, it remains unclear whether incontinence predisposes a patient to increased Candida colonisation or whether incontinence acts as a trigger for Candida infection in those already colonised. The purpose of this observational cross-sectional study was to estimate colonisation rates of C. albicans in continent, compared to incontinent patients, and patients with incontinence-associated dermatitis. Data were collected on 81 inpatients of a major Australian hospital and included a pelvic skin inspection and microbiological specimens to detect C. Albicans at hospital admission. The mean age of the sample was 76 years ( SD = 12.22) with 53% being male. Incontinent participants ( n = 53) had a non-significant trend towards greater Candida colonisation rates at the perianal site (43% versus 28%) χ2(1, N = 81) = 4·453, p = ·638 and the inguinal site (24% versus 14%) χ2(1, N = 81) = 6·868, p = ·258 compared to continent patients ( n = 28). The incontinent subgroup with incontinence-associated dermatitis ( n = 22) showed no difference in colonisation rates compared to those without incontinence-associated dermatitis. Understanding the epidemiology of colonisation may have implications for the prevention of Candida infection in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Australia percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) rates have significantly increased over the last decade. However, often, in the hospital setting, there is little time for comprehensive patient education due to the urgency for coronary artery catheterisation, and short length of patient stay. Aim: The purpose of this study was to explore the information needs of first-time PCI patients four to six weeks post-procedure. Method and Results: This study was based on a naturalistic inquiry approach using semi-structured interviews with 10 participants and field notes as the methods of data collection. Data were analysed utilising Thomas' (2003) five steps to a thematic analysis, incorporating a constant comparative approach. Four themes were identified: 'Events leading up'; 'Information prior'; 'About the procedure'; and 'Lifestyle'. Conclusions: Findings highlighted the numerous educational needs of participants for PCI across the continuum of their clinical admission and discharge. Furthermore, the study uncovered the need for a tailored approach to PCI patient information delivery. Findings also demonstrated the need to further identify and trial different information delivery methods and timing of PCI education to patients and their families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]