clinical q&a library
Explore a database of clinical questions answered by iatroX, referencing established clinical guidelines, SmPCs, and peer-reviewed literature.
What initial investigations should be performed in a patient suspected of having acute limb ischaemia?
In a patient suspected of having acute limb ischaemia, the initial investigations should include a thorough clinical assessment and measurement of the ankle ...
How should I differentiate between acute limb ischaemia and other causes of limb pain in a primary care setting?
To differentiate acute limb ischaemia (ALI) from other causes of limb pain in primary care, focus on the sudden onset of symptoms and the classical c...
What are the key clinical signs and symptoms that indicate acute limb ischaemia in a patient?
Key clinical signs and symptoms indicating acute limb ischaemia include the sudden onset of the '6 Ps': pain, pallor, pulselessness, paraesthesia, pa...
What are the recommended first-line treatments for head lice in children and adults according to UK guidelines?
Recommended first-line treatments for head lice in children and adults according to UK guidelines include:Use of insecticidal lo...
What are the guidelines for follow-up and rehabilitation after an ankle fracture in primary care?
In primary care, follow-up and rehabilitation after an ankle fracture should include advising immediate unrestricted weight-bearing as tolerated for non-surg...
How should I manage a stable ankle fracture in an adult patient in a primary care setting?
In managing a stable ankle fracture in an adult patient within a primary care setting, advise immediate unrestricted weight-bearing as tolerated...
What are the indications for referring a patient with an ankle fracture to secondary care?
Indications for referring a patient with an ankle fracture to secondary care include:Uncertainty about the stability of a unimal...
Which imaging modalities are recommended for confirming an ankle fracture in primary care?
In primary care, the recommended imaging modality to confirm an ankle fracture is an X-ray, guided by the use of the Ottawa ankle and foot rules to determine...
When should I refer a patient with suspected leprosy to a specialist for further evaluation and management?
Refer a patient with suspected leprosy to a specialist for further evaluation and management as soon as the diagnosis is suspected or confirmed....
What laboratory tests are essential for confirming a diagnosis of Mycobacterium leprae infection?
Essential laboratory tests for confirming a diagnosis of Mycobacterium leprae infection include skin biopsy with microscopy, culture, and histology, ...
What laboratory investigations are essential for confirming a diagnosis of leishmaniasis in primary care?
In primary care, confirming a diagnosis of leishmaniasis primarily relies on laboratory investigations that detect the parasite directly or identify its gene...
What are the recommended first-line treatments for cutaneous leishmaniasis in adults?
The recommended first-line treatments for cutaneous leishmaniasis in adults typically involve local therapies such as intralesional antimonial inject...
What are the key clinical features that differentiate cutaneous leishmaniasis from other skin lesions?
Key clinical features that differentiate cutaneous leishmaniasis from other skin lesions include:Typical lesion appearan...
What role do topical treatments play in the management of chronic leg ulcers, and which are most effective?
Topical treatments play a supportive but selective role in the management of chronic leg ulcers, primarily aiming to maintain an optimal wound environment an...
When should I consider referring a patient with a leg ulcer for specialist vascular assessment?
Consider referring a patient with a leg ulcer for specialist vascular assessment if:The leg ulcer is venous in origin and has no...
What are the recommended compression therapy options for managing venous leg ulcers in primary care?
Recommended compression therapy options for managing venous leg ulcers in primary care include the use of multi-layer compression bandaging systems....
How should I assess the adequacy of venous return in a patient with a chronic leg ulcer?
Assessing the adequacy of venous return in a patient with a chronic leg ulcer involves clinical examination and diagnostic imaging.Fi...
What are the implications of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 for my practice when assessing a patient's decision-making ability?
The Mental Capacity Act 2005 requires practitioners to assume that a person has capacity unless there is evidence to suggest otherwise 1.Ca...
In what circumstances should I consider involving a legal expert when managing a patient with capacity issues?
Consider involving a legal expert when managing a patient with capacity issues in the following circumstances:When there is uncertainty o...