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Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an increase in the number of unhoused individuals in Asheville, North Carolina resulting in more tent encampments.Understanding the physical, mental, and socially determined health characteristics associated with being unhoused can help guide stakeholders with policy development, healthcare program planning, and funding decisions to support unhoused individuals., Methods: In this study, we used an observational cross-section methodology. Using a convenience sample approach, we interviewed 101 participants who were receiving services from 2 emergency hotel shelters, a day center, and a resource center. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and open-ended responses were collected and grouped to provide context., Results: Most participants were White (71%) and identified as male (76%). Over 60% reported having a high school education or advanced degree. Of the participants, 76% reported being unhoused for more than 6 months, and their last permanent housing was in Western North Carolina. Dental disease, chronic pain, and hypertension were common physical conditions. PTSD, depression, and anxiety were common mental health conditions. A lack of transportation was the most noted socially determined challenge. Marijuana, methamphetamine, and alcohol were the most often used substances, where methamphetamine was noted to be particularly problematic for the participants., Conclusion: Understanding the physical, mental, and social issues of the complex unhoused population can assist policymakers, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders in addressing challenges and testing improvement strategies., Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare they have no conflicts of interest., (© 2024 HCA Physician Services, Inc. d/b/a Emerald Medical Education.)

Background: In longitudinal integrated clerkships (LICs), the continuous preceptor and student relationship over time creates opportunities for more in-depth teaching approaches than shorter preceptorships allow. We identify student perceptions of the most effective teaching practices and develop tips for LIC preceptors., Methods: The first four third-year medical student classes completing the Asheville LIC of the University of North Carolina School of Medicine (UNC SOM) formed the subject group. Between June and August 2013, a trained research assistant (AS) conducted semi-structured interviews with all 27 UNC SOM Asheville LIC students. Interviews were transcribed and coded by thematic analysis., Results: All 27 (100%) students participated in the interviews. We identified seven main themes of successful precepting practices: enhance teaching; create bring-backs (learning topics to bring back to preceptors); support patient ownership; structure clinic; improve feedback; engage learners; and develop a relationship. These themes were condensed into nine preceptor tips for teaching in LICs., Conclusions: The longitudinal relationship of preceptor and student in LIC models affords specific, important opportunities for teaching and learning. The concise list of LIC preceptor tips can be used by preceptors to further optimise their teaching in the LIC setting. We identify student perceptions of the most effective teaching practices and develop tips for LIC preceptors., (© 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

A case of paint remover inhalation causing pulmonary edema and pleural effusions is described. Methylene chloride, an ingredient of paint removers, can cause pulmonary edema and carbon monoxide poisoning. The expanding interest in home projects involving furniture refinishing and paint removal puts a large segment of the population at risk. The implications of such exposure need to be recognized by the medical community.