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 However, many articles do not significantly go out of date in that time.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.
Postnatal perineal problems
Mr Alexander Field, Dr Megha Mistry and Dr Elizabeth Field
InnovAiT 2016 9(7): 389–394
Most women delivering vaginally will sustain perineal trauma requiring suturing. Most heal well, but some women present to GPs with complications, most often infection and wound breakdown. This article explores presentations, causes and holistic management with referral guidance.
Female genital mutilation
Dr Farah Bede
InnovAiT 2016 9(7): 395–403
The author of this article, to guide primary care health professionals in prevention, diagnosis, management and reporting of female genital mutilation (FGM), is from a community in Africa practicing FGM. The article highlights safeguarding issues and important aspects of identification, including, when necessary, the appropriate use of trained interpreters.
Domestic violence and abuse
Dr Ayla Cosh and Dr Helen Carslaw
InnovAiT 2016 9(7): 404–412
Domestic abuse (DA) accounts for 16% of all violent crime. Health professionals’ lack of confidence when dealing with DA stems from lack of training. More awareness can ensure that survivors get appropriate help, support and protection. In general practice DA victims often present with chronic health problems rather than acute injury. This article considers barriers to disclosure and considers the need for practices to identify referral pathways and resources available using a named responsible person.
Nose bleeds
Dr Nimeshi Jayakody
InnovAiT 2016 9(7): 415–421
Most of the epistaxes experienced by 60% of the population are benign and self-limiting. However, there are many causes, some of which can produce serious and life-threatening epistaxis. Patient education and first aid are important in acute episodes. This article considers various techniques for acute management; investigation of recurrent epistaxis is also considered.
Tinnitus, ring it on
Mr Hussein Wahijee and Dr Rebecca Leach
InnovAiT 2016 9(7): 422–430
The abnormal perception of sound in the absence of acoustic stimulus, or tinnitus, is very common and ranges in severity from trivial to debilitating. This article describes an approach to management in general practice, recognising the challenges of excluding rare, serious underlying pathology and relieving symptoms. Most patients with tinnitus have accompanying hearing loss that can be conductive or sensorineural.
Acoustic neuroma
Mr Pranter Brahmabhatt and Mr Tobias Moorhouse
InnovAiT 2016 9(7): 431–435
Acoustic neuromas are slow-growing, benign tumours of Schwann cells in the vestibular nerve running through the internal acoustic meatus, exerting effects though compression of the nerve and eventually the brain. Early diagnosis improves morbidity and mortality, and is facilitated by prompt referral of patients presenting with unilateral or asymmetric hearing loss or tinnitus.
How social media is changing leadership and innovation
Dr Cathryn Dillon
InnovAiT 2016 9(7): 436–439
Healthcare leadership is promoted in postgraduate training. Use of social media can enhance the development of leadership and innovation in healthcare. This article explores how this is possible and where opportunities to influence change can be initiated. Why not spread your influence and that of InnovAiT with tweets to @RCGP_InnovAiT?