How many hours do hospital consultants work? 40 hours a week. NHS consultants workload is described by something called a Programmed Activity (‘PA’). A PA is 4 hours of work (half a day). And a full time consultant is expected to do 40 hours = 10 x 4 hour PA blocks. And this is generally […]
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What is a biopsy? A biopsy is when a small piece of tissue is taken so it can be examined under a microscope. Biopsies can be taken from almost anywhere in the body. Why do I need a biopsy? If your doctor or nurse has noticed something abnormal (for example a lump), during a physical […]
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When should I see a doctor about back pain? When you have red flag symptoms including those listed below. In these situations you may need hospital admission and possible back surgery. Age <18 years and >60 years Bladder, bowel (inability to control your wee-ing or poo-ing) or sexual dysfunction Weakness or loss of sensation in the legs […]
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Do NHS computers talk to each other? No, no .. well a bit. They should (sorry). In most parts of the UK this is true. Hence GP, hospital, pharmacy, mental health and ambulance staff do not know exactly what each other is doing. This leads to many mistakes, especially related to prescribing medicines. In some areas, there […]
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What is a physiotherapist? Physiotherapists (‘physios’) are qualified and regulated health professionals – who treat people to restore, maintain (and make the most of) mobility, function, and well-being. They are one of the key Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) in the NHS. They are trained to help patients at all stages of life – from infant […]
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What is an occupational therapist (OT)? Occupational therapists (‘OTs’) are qualified and regulated health professionals – who enable people of all ages to participate in daily living. They are one of the key Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) in the NHS. Occupational therapy promotes health, well-being, and participation. They support people whose physical or mental health, environment […]
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When should I see a doctor about conjunctivitis (red or pink eye)? Can I treat conjunctivitis (red or pink eye) myself? Yes, often you can. But if does not get better soon, you need to see a doctor. Some background first. What is conjunctivitis? Conjunctivitis – also known as red or pink eye – is […]
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When should I see a doctor about an electric shock? For most minor electric shocks you do not need to see a doctor. But later you need to get the cause of the shock fixed, to protect you and other people in the future. Exposure to electrical energy may result in no injury at all […]
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When should I see a doctor about a splinter? You don’t need to. You can take it out yourself, as they can lead to infection. What to do about a splinter 1. Wash your hands, then the area around the splinter with soap and warm water. 2. If the splinter is sticking through the skin, […]
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When should I see a doctor about a nose bleed? Most have no cause. They just happen, and get better. So you do not need to see a doctor. What to do about a nose bleed Nosebleeds can be frightening, as a little blood can go a long way. But they are not usually a […]
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