Abstract
InnovAiT is produced on a 3-year cycle. However, many articles do not significantly go out of date in that time. This section of InnovAiT summarises articles from the previous cycle of InnovAiT that GPs and GPs in training might still find useful today.
Coeliac disease
Dr Cheryl Anderson and Dr James Berrill
InnovAiT 2016 9(1): 5–10
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition associated with inflammation of the small intestine triggered by exposure to gluten (proteins found in wheat, barley and rye) that can lead to the malabsorption of nutrients. It is common, perhaps affecting 1% of the UK population, and frequently under-diagnosed. This article was written before an update of NICE guidance in 2015, but the content is still current and useful. Patients are recommended to access support groups like Coeliac UK and have an annual review monitoring for complications and dietary adherence.
Gallstone disease
Dr Caroline Rance and Mr Alun Jones
InnovAiT 2016 9(1): 11–17
Gallstones are found in approximately 20% of the UK population. Only 20% of patients with gallstones suffer complications (including biliary colic, cholecystitis, pancreatitis and cholangitis). The definitive treatment is laparoscopic cholecystectomy, now the most common surgical abdominal procedure in the UK. This article considers how gallstones may present in general practice, complications and how to refer appropriately. Patients with suspected acute cholecystitis, ascending cholangitis or acute pancreatitis require emergency hospital admission.
Faecal incontinence
Dr Neil Forbes
InnovAiT 2016 9(1): 18–24
DOI; 10.1177/1755738015604003
Faecal incontinence is defined as the involuntary loss of flatus, liquid or stool that is a social or hygiene problem, occurring for more than 1 month. It can indicate serious underlying disease and referral should be prompted by red flag symptoms or treatable causes. It is estimated to affect more than 2% of the population. It affects more women than men (4:1) and prevalence increases with age. This article summarises diagnosis and management in primary care.
Childhood immunisations
Miss Sarah Ward
InnovAiT 2016 9(1): 26–33
It is important to follow the up-to-date schedule and information in the ‘Green Book’ (www.dh.gov.uk/greenbook). The childhood immunisation programme has made a major contribution to an improvement in children’s health and wellbeing in the UK. This article covers the schedule, consent, how vaccines work, contraindications and some case histories.
Vaccinations for travel
Dr Rabia Aftab
InnovAiT 2016 9(1): 34–41
Over 7 million people travel abroad each year from the UK. Most travel associated illness is not vaccine-preventable, so appropriate advice must include other preventive measures. This article outlines the risks and contraindications to travel vaccination and where to access current travel advice.
Fitness to fly
Dr Alison Hoggarth and Dr Christopher Evans
InnovAiT 2016 9(1): 42–45
Knowledge of ‘fitness to fly’ regulations is essential for GPs in an increasingly litigious society. This article details access to the latest guidelines from the UK Civil Aviation Authority and advice on providing letters for patients. The ultimate decision on whether a passenger can fly is made by the airline concerned.
Narrative consultation model: ‘Mind the GAP’
Dr Peter Churn
InnovAiT 2016 9(1): 46–49
This article proposes a simplified model for consulting and the Clinical Skills Assessment (CSA) exam based on narrative story telling. There are just three phrases to remember: Gathering, agreeing and planning. You can compare the suggestions made with other consultation models and articles in this special issue of InnovAiT.