clinical q&a library
Explore a database of clinical questions answered by iatroX, referencing established clinical guidelines, SmPCs, and peer-reviewed literature.
What investigations are recommended to confirm the diagnosis of hypercapnic respiratory failure in a primary care setting?
Recommended investigations to confirm hypercapnic respiratory failure in primary care:Measure arterial or arterialised capillary...
How should I approach the initial assessment and management of a patient presenting with acute hypoxaemic respiratory failure?
Initial assessment of a patient presenting with acute hypoxaemic respiratory failure should include a thorough clinical evaluation focusing ...
What are the key clinical features that differentiate between Type 1 and Type 2 respiratory failure in adults?
Type 1 respiratory failure is characterised by hypoxaemia (low blood oxygen levels) without hypercapnia (normal or low carbon dioxide levels...
What are the key clinical features that suggest a diagnosis of renal tubular acidosis in a patient?
Key clinical features suggesting a diagnosis of renal tubular acidosis (RTA) include:Non-anion gap metabolic acidosis with a nor...
In which cases of kidney disease is a renal biopsy particularly contraindicated?
A renal biopsy is particularly contraindicated in cases where there is a high risk of bleeding, such as in patients with uncontrolled hypertension, bleeding ...
What are the key indications for referring a patient for a renal biopsy in primary care?
In primary care, key indications for referring a patient for a renal biopsy generally align with criteria for specialist assessment of chronic kidney disease...
What role does multidisciplinary teamwork play in the rehabilitation of patients with complex needs?
Multidisciplinary teamwork plays a central role in the rehabilitation of patients with complex needs by ensuring coordinated, comprehensive, and pati...
When should I refer a patient with a traumatic brain injury to a specialist rehabilitation service?
Refer a patient with a traumatic brain injury to a specialist rehabilitation service as soon as possible after the injury, ideally starting rehabilit...
What evidence-based interventions should I consider for managing chronic pain in patients undergoing rehabilitation?
For managing chronic pain in patients undergoing rehabilitation, consider the following evidence-based interventions:Supervised group exe...
How can I assess the need for referral to a rehabilitation specialist for a patient with post-operative complications?
To assess the need for referral to a rehabilitation specialist for a patient experiencing post-operative complications, use a person-centred, individualised,...
What are the key components of a rehabilitation plan for a patient recovering from a stroke?
A rehabilitation plan for a patient recovering from a stroke should include the following key components:Specialist stroke service involv...
What guidelines should I follow for the gradual reintroduction of nutrition in patients at risk of refeeding syndrome?
Guidelines for gradual reintroduction of nutrition in patients at risk of refeeding syndrome:Start nutrition support cautiously ...
When should I consider referring a patient to a specialist for management of refeeding syndrome?
Consider referring a patient to a specialist for the management of refeeding syndrome when they are at high risk of developing refeeding problems, as...
What are the recommended electrolyte replacements for a patient diagnosed with refeeding syndrome?
In patients diagnosed with refeeding syndrome, the recommended electrolyte replacements include potassium, phosphate, and magnesium supplementation tailored ...
How can I effectively monitor patients at risk of refeeding syndrome during the initial stages of feeding?
Effective monitoring of patients at risk of refeeding syndrome during the initial stages of nutritional support involves:Startin...
What are the key risk factors for developing refeeding syndrome in patients undergoing nutritional rehabilitation?
Key risk factors for developing refeeding syndrome in patients undergoing nutritional rehabilitation include:BMI less than 16 kg...
What initial investigations should I consider for a patient suspected of having atelectasis?
Initial investigations for a patient suspected of having atelectasis should include a chest radiograph (chest X-ray) to identify areas of lung collap...
What postoperative care and follow-up are recommended for patients who have undergone surgical repair of rectal prolapse?
Postoperative care and follow-up for patients who have undergone surgical repair of rectal prolapse should include specialist surgical review to discuss the ...
What criteria should I use to determine when to refer a patient with rectal prolapse to a specialist?
Criteria for referral of a patient with rectal prolapse to a specialist include:Presence of symptoms that significantly affect b...