clinical q&a library
Explore a database of clinical questions answered by iatroX, referencing established clinical guidelines, SmPCs, and peer-reviewed literature.
What are the most common complications associated with blood transfusions, and how can they be prevented?
Blood transfusions carry risks of several common complications, including acute transfusion reactions such as febrile non-hemolytic reactions, allergic react...
What are the current indications for blood transfusion in adult patients according to UK guidelines?
The current indications for blood transfusion in adult patients according to UK guidelines are: Red blood cell transfusions: Us...
What patient education should I provide regarding the proper technique for home blood pressure monitoring?
Patient education for proper home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM) should include the following key points:Advise the patient to...
When should I consider referring a patient for specialist assessment based on their blood pressure monitoring results?
Consider referring a patient for specialist assessment based on blood pressure monitoring results in the following situations:If...
What are the key differences in the protocols for ABPM and HBPM according to current UK guidelines?
Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) should involve taking at least 2 measurements per hour during the person's usual waking hours, w...
How should I interpret the results of home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM) in patients with suspected hypertension?
Interpreting home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM) results in patients with suspected hypertension involves using validated devices, standardised mea...
What are the recommended indications for using ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) in primary care?
Recommended indications for using ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) in primary care include:Confirming a diagnosis of ...
What are the recommended management strategies for a pregnant patient with a known history of von Willebrand disease?
For a pregnant patient with a known history of von Willebrand disease, the recommended management strategies include:Plan birth in an obs...
When should I refer a patient with suspected inherited bleeding disorders to a specialist haematology service?
Refer a patient with suspected inherited bleeding disorders to a specialist haematology service when:There is unexplained bleedi...
What initial laboratory investigations should be performed in a patient suspected of having an inherited bleeding disorder?
In a patient suspected of having an inherited bleeding disorder, initial laboratory investigations should include a full blood count (FBC) t...
How can I differentiate between von Willebrand disease and other bleeding disorders in a patient with a family history of bleeding?
To differentiate von Willebrand disease (VWD) from other bleeding disorders in a patient with a family history of bleeding, a detailed clinical and l...
What role do vitamin K and prothrombin complex concentrates play in the management of acquired bleeding disorders?
Vitamin K plays a crucial role in the management of acquired bleeding disorders primarily by reversing the effects of vitamin K antagonists ...
When should I consider referring a patient with acquired bleeding disorders to a hematologist?
Consider referring a patient with acquired bleeding disorders to a hematologist when:There is a known or suspected diagnosis of ...
Which vaccinations are recommended for patients with AIDS to prevent opportunistic infections?
Patients with AIDS are immunocompromised and at high risk of opportunistic infections; therefore, vaccination is a critical preventive strategy. The UK guide...
What are the indications for initiating antiretroviral therapy in patients with newly diagnosed AIDS?
Indications for initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) in patients with newly diagnosed acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) include all patien...
What are the recommended screening protocols for opportunistic infections in patients with advanced HIV infection?
Recommended screening protocols for opportunistic infections in patients with advanced HIV infection involve targeted testing based on clini...
What are the key signs of infection to monitor in patients after treatment for bites, and when should I reassess them?
After treatment for bites, key signs of infection to monitor include local signs such as redness, heat, swelling, pain, and the presence of ...
What criteria should I use to determine whether a patient with a bite wound requires referral to secondary care?
Criteria for referral of a patient with a bite wound to secondary care include:Presence of significant wound complications such ...
How do I assess the risk of infection in patients with animal bites, and what follow-up is necessary?
To assess the risk of infection in patients with animal bites, first evaluate the type of animal, bite location, depth, and extent of tissue damage, as these...