CPD Portal
Phthalates, phthalates everywhere!
Evidence is mounting that endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as phthalates, can be linked to a number of diseases and conditions. Endocrine disruptors act by interfering with the biosynthesis, secretion, action or metabolism of naturally occurring hormones.
Link between SGLT2 inhibitors and Fournier’s gangrene
Fournier’s gangrene is a newly identified safety concern in patients receiving sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. Physicians prescribing these agents should be aware of this possible complication and have a high index of suspicion to recognise it in its early stages.
Changing behaviour to improve hand hygiene
Numerous studies have shown that poor hand hygiene among healthcare workers is one of the major causes of hospital acquired infections (HAIs). Despite various global campaigns to promote hand washing, little progress has been made.
Disarming hospital infections
Many antibiotics that were used to cure infectious diseases are no longer effective. The organisms that are resistant to antibiotics have been termed ‘superbugs’, and the WHO has already warned that these could cause a new epidemic.
Don’t be at the mercy of MRSA
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is any strain of Staphylococcus aureus that has developed through horizontal gene transfer and natural selection and multiple drug resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics.
Biofilms and antibiotic resistance
The rise of multidrug resistant bacteria caused by growing antibiotic resistance is one of the gravest threats faced by modern medicine. Could biofilms be a part of the solution?
Avoiding antimicrobial resistance
New microbial mechanisms of resistance continue to emerge and spread globally through modern travel of people, animals and goods – threatening the practice of modern medicine, animal health and food security.
Minimising surgical site infections with single use negative pressure wound therapy
Negative pressure wound therapy has greatly improved the healing process by ensuring that pressure is distributed uniformly across the incision and zone of injury and reducing the need for dressing changes.
How to avoid HAIs
MEDICAL ACADEMIC OCTOBER CPD 1 of 4: In developed countries, HAI affects from 5% to 15% of hospitalised patients in regular wards and up to 50% or more of patients in Intensive Care Units (ICU).
Wrap up to keep the microorganisms away
MEDICAL CHRONICLE SEPTEMBER CPD 2 of 5: The following study looks at the effectiveness of rigid containers vs wrapped instrument trays, to maintain a sterile internal environment.
HITES: infection control’s weak link
High-touch environmental surfaces (HITES) are increasingly being recognised as vehicles for healthcare-associated infections. Consequently, there is a corresponding upsurge of interest in technologies for decontaminating HITES.
