SURVIVAL RATES: The use of invasive procedures for patients with a life-threatening heart condition do not necessarily improve survival. Patients admitted to highly specialised hospitals had a poorer outcome than those treated in local units.
The risk of major bleeding and stroke was also higher in people with acute heart problems who were treated in specialist hospitals. The researchers recommend a more selective use of invasive procedures, and argue against the early routine transfer of patients to hospitals with specialist facilities.
DRUG MONITORING: Despite the recommendation that a review of medications in older patients should be undertaken on a regular basis, research has found that home-based monitoring does not keep older people out of hospital. Pharmacists educated patients and carers about their drugs, and reported possible drug reactions or interactions to the general practitioner. At the end of the trial period, the intervention by pharmacists increased rather than decreased emergency hospital admissions. It also seemed to worsen patients' quality of life. The reasons for the unexpected outcome could not be explained by the researchers from the University of East Anglia.
SEPARATED PARENTING: Looking after the emotional and intellectual needs of children following a marital/relationship breakdown can be one of the most challenging and exhausting tasks for parents. The Marriage and Relationship Counselling Service at 38 Fitzwilliam Street, Dublin 2, is running a course on post-separation parenting over three Tuesday nights, starting on February 1st. The course will help parents gain insights into the emotional impact the breakdown of their partnership has had on themselves and their children. Tel: 01 6443901 or email mrcs@eircom.net for more details.
LEARNING DIFFICULTIES: A public seminar on learning difficulties including dyslexia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder takes place in the School of Nursing, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin, this Friday. Dr Madeline Portwood, senior educational psychologist at the Durham Local Education Authority, will speak about a study she carried out on how fatty acid supplementation can affect learning conditions. The seminar, which runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., will also look at wider issues in the search for causes of dyspraxia, dyslexia, ADHD and autistic spectrum disorders. Cost €150. Booking on tel: 00 44 1388 608615.