clinical q&a library
Explore a database of clinical questions answered by iatroX, referencing established clinical guidelines, SmPCs, and peer-reviewed literature.
Which imaging modalities are recommended for the initial assessment of suspected pleural disease in primary care?
For the initial assessment of suspected pleural disease in primary care, the recommended imaging modality is a chest X-ray. This is the first-line investigat...
What guidelines should I follow when managing post-operative care for patients who have undergone plastic surgery?
When managing post-operative care for patients who have undergone plastic surgery, follow these key guidelines:Prevent surgical site infe...
What are the potential complications of pituitary apoplexy that I should monitor for in the acute management phase?
Potential complications of pituitary apoplexy to monitor during the acute management phase include:Hypopituitarism:...
When should I consider referring a patient with suspected pituitary apoplexy to secondary care, and what information should I provide to the receiving
When to refer a patient with suspected pituitary apoplexy to secondary care: Refer urgently to secondary care if pituitary apoplexy is suspe...
What imaging studies are recommended for confirming a diagnosis of pituitary apoplexy, and how urgently should they be performed?
Recommended imaging study for confirming pituitary apoplexy: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the pituitary gland is the preferred imagin...
How should I initiate emergency management for a patient suspected of having pituitary apoplexy in a primary care setting?
Initiate emergency management for suspected pituitary apoplexy in primary care by:Recognising the emergency: Pi...
What follow-up protocols should be implemented for patients treated for pituitary adenomas to monitor for recurrence or complications?
Follow-up protocols for patients treated for pituitary adenomas should include:Regular clinical and radiological review (active ...
How should I manage a patient with a prolactin-secreting pituitary adenoma who is experiencing symptoms of hyperprolactinemia?
Management of a patient with a prolactin-secreting pituitary adenoma presenting with symptoms of hyperprolactinemia should begin with confirming the diagnosi...
What are the indications for referring a patient with a pituitary adenoma to secondary care for surgical evaluation?
Indications for referring a patient with a pituitary adenoma to secondary care for surgical evaluation include:Presence of sy...
Which initial investigations should be conducted in a patient suspected of having a pituitary adenoma?
Initial investigations for a patient suspected of having a pituitary adenoma should include:Hormonal blood tests...
What post-operative care instructions should I provide to a patient after surgical intervention for pilonidal sinus disease?
Following surgical intervention for pilonidal sinus disease, provide the patient with the following post-operative care instructions:Woun...
What criteria should I use to decide whether to refer a patient with recurrent pilonidal sinus disease to a specialist?
Criteria for referral of a patient with recurrent pilonidal sinus disease to a specialist:Refer patients with recurrent pilonida...
What guidelines exist for the integration of physiotherapy in the management of patients with COPD?
Consider physiotherapy using positive expiratory pressure devices for selected people with exacerbations of COPD, to help with clearing sputum. 1...
How should I manage a patient with a recent stroke in terms of physiotherapy referral and rehabilitation?
Physiotherapy referral and rehabilitation management for a patient with a recent stroke should include:Referral to a specialist ...
What are the recommended physiotherapy interventions for post-operative rehabilitation following knee surgery?
Post-operative physiotherapy interventions following knee surgery should begin as early as possible, ideally on the day of surgery or within 24 hours, and in...
How can I assess the effectiveness of physiotherapy in patients with chronic pain conditions?
To assess the effectiveness of physiotherapy in patients with chronic pain conditions, a person-centred assessment should be conducted to identify factors co...
What are the key indications for referring a patient to physiotherapy for musculoskeletal issues?
Key indications for referring a patient to physiotherapy for musculoskeletal issues include:Postoperative rehabilitation advice ...
When should I consider referring a patient with severe photosensitivity to a dermatologist?
Consider referring a patient with severe photosensitivity to a dermatologist if:the diagnosis is uncertain or complex, requiring...
How should I advise patients on sun protection measures to prevent photosensitivity reactions?
Advise patients on sun protection measures to prevent photosensitivity reactions by recommending the following:Avoid exc...