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29 January

How to run a good ward round 3 Ps. Preparation, preparation, preparation. More of that later. Let’s start with the basics. What is a ward round? When you are in hospital, the doctors and nurses will visit you most days on a ‘ward round (WR)’. This usually occurs in the morning. Each patient is usually reviewed in about 10 […]

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29 January

What is NHS talking therapy (IAPT)? Talking therapists (previously called IAPTs; Improved Access to Psychological Therapy) are part of an NHS service that provides counselling (talking therapy). They work within something called NHS Talking Therapies. It is an effective alternative treatment to medication for a number of mental health conditions. In some cases, talk therapy may […]

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29 January

Which NHS service should I use? It is hard to know which bit of the NHS to use. This page describes the main options, and which is best for which problem. Yes, it is quite confusing which one to choose. If you are unwell or injured, it’s important to choose the right service to make […]

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29 January

How do I prepare to go to A&E? Be prepared – and you will get a better assessment. Before you go, think about being prepared for what might happen when you get there. Here are some tips: Transport –  ask a family member or friend to take you, or go by taxi. Do not drive yourself. NB. […]

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29 January

What is the NHS111 telephone line? What is NHS111? NHS 111 is a telephone and website service (here) for when you have an urgent need If you need to contact the NHS for urgent care, there are only three numbers to know: 999 for life-threatening emergencies your GP surgery or 111 When you call 111, you will be given advice and […]

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19 October

NHS Glossary 2 Week and 31/62 Day Cancer Targets 4 Hour Emergency Care Target 12 Hour Trolley Wait 18 Week Elective Care Target (Referral to Treatment: RTT) 111 999 1948 AAU: Acute Assessment Unit AC: Audit Commission ACO/S: Accountable Care Organisation/System ACP: Advanced Clinical Practitioner Acute Care Acute Hospital Acute Medical Unit (AMU) Admission Admission […]

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20 August

_____ ===== What? If you ever find yourself unsatisfied with any facet of the NHS care, treatment, or service, it’s your legal right to raise a complaint. The NHS not only allows for this but encourages feedback to enhance its services. While negative feedback is crucial for improvement, positive feedback also plays an essential role […]

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16 August

What is snot and what is it made of? Snot is snot to be sniffed at – and on an ordinary day you may make 1‑1.5 litres. In the midst of a cold, though, it can feel like a lot more. It is 95% water. It’s set to a be a hard winter of sniffles […]

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16 May

Working in Trauma and Orthopaedics (T&O): 5 Pros and 5 Cons 5 Pros – why should I work in T&O? 1. Teamwork Many elements of T&O mean working with other people: trauma calls, fracture clinics, theatre environment etc. You are surrounded members of the MDT as well as fellow surgeons; which, if you like working […]

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07 May

What to do when a relative goes into hospital Concern Having a loved one admitted to hospital is always a concerning time. This is normal. The restrictions to visiting can increase our fears and anxieties. If possible, before your loved one is admitted, discuss with them (and your family) how they want to keep in […]

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