Show me the evidence

Best Evidence Topics

2009-06-02T04:23:00.000-07:00

Best BETs is an open access database which provides answers to very specific clinical problems, using the best evidence available. Best Evidence Topics (BETs) were originally developed for emergency medicine, but there are a growing number of BETs in cardiothoracics, nursing, primary care and paediatrics. Healthcare professionals are invited to write a BET of their own and publish it on the website. To access the databases, click here: http://www.bestbets.org/index.php

JUNE 2009

2009-06-01T09:05:00.001-07:00

The sun is setting over the newsletter as we know it...

Proteinuria and estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate

2009-05-31T14:06:00.000-07:00

The 2009 Annual Evidence Update on Proteinuria and estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) has just been published by the team in the NHS Evidence - Kidney Diseases specialist collection. It provides an update on the evidence presented during last year's National Knowledge Week on Proteinuria and eGFR. The most useful papers on Basic Science, Clinical Aspects and Management have been selected by renal experts. You can read commentaries on the latest systematic reviews, randomised controlled trials and the 2008 NICE guideline on Chronic Kidney Disease. Click on the link to access the evidence:
http://www.library.nhs.uk/kidney/ViewResource.aspx?resID=315169&tabID=289

Smile! It's the Oral Health Evidence Update

2009-05-31T13:57:00.000-07:00

NHS Evidence - Oral Health has published its Annual Evidence Update on Oral Health to coincide with National Smile Month. All aspects of oral health are covered in the update, within the areas of oral disorders and specialist dentistry.

This update will be complemented over the coming months by several specialised evidence updates focusing on particular aspects, including periodontology, special care dentistry and oral cancer.

The 2009 Oral Health Annual Evidence Update is available here:

http://www.library.nhs.uk/oralhealth/ViewResource.aspx?resID=314804&tabID=289

Epilepsy Update

2009-05-31T13:41:00.000-07:00

Topic Advisors at NHS Evidence - Neurological Conditions reviewed almost 800 articles in order to select the best evidence-based systematic reviews on the diagnosis, treatment and management of epilepsy for the 2009 Annual Evidence Update. Other information in the second update since 2007 includes guidelines, health technology assessments and economic evaluations. Leading epilepsy experts from around the UK have appraised these for their validity and relevance to the busy clinician. Click on the following link to view the resources and their accompanying expert commentaries: http://www.library.nhs.uk/NEUROLOGICAL/ViewResource.aspx?resID=313400

2009 Update on Skin Cancer

2009-05-31T13:20:00.000-07:00

The second Annual Evidence Update on Skin Cancer has been prepared jointly by the NHS Evidence – cancer and NHS Evidence – skin disorders specialist collections. The update presents the results of a search for new guidance since May 2008, including systematic reviews and other literature on melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

Various health professionals from the UK and abroad have contributed expert commentaries on new topics included in the update. There is also a list of uncertainties about treatment effects in skin cancer, which have been gathered from the systematic reviews. These knowledge gaps, where new research is needed, have been added to DUETS, the UK Database of Uncertainties about the Effects of Treatment.

A wide range of patient information resources are also provided.

View the entire update here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/Cancer/ViewResource.aspx?resID=312455&tabID=289

Update on Cystic Fibrosis

2009-05-29T03:36:00.000-07:00

The first Annual Evidence Update on Cystic Fibrosis (CF) has been published by NHS Evidence - Respiratory and NHS Evidence - Genetic Conditions. It presents an extensive list of systematic reviews and guidelines on CF published since 2005, along with expert commentaries and details of relevant associations. You can access the Update here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/RESPIRATORY/ViewResource.aspx?resID=311628&tabID=288&catID=5883

Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Asthma

2009-05-29T03:22:00.000-07:00

The NHS Evidence - Complementary and Alternative Medicine team has produced the 2009 Annual Evidence Update on CAM for Asthma. New additions include systematic reviews which have a main focus on asthma, and other reviews examining specific therapeutic approaches. The resources are accompanied by an expert commentary. In addition, a number of reviews have been selected as relevant educational material. The Update can be viewed here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/cam/ViewResource.aspx?resID=313286&tabID=289

Some useful websites

2009-05-28T07:36:00.000-07:00

Orphanet is a database of rare diseases. It contains information about more than 5000 conditions. You can search for research and trials being undertaken across Europe, as well as details of clinics and patient organisations. Click here to view the portal: http://www.orpha.net/consor/cgi-bin/index.php

Martindale’s Health Science Guide is useful for multimedia resources, and has a wide variety of images and video clips in many medical specialties. http://www.martindalecenter.com/HSGuide.html

OTIS: The Organization of Teratology Information Specialists is a not-for-profit association based in North America and it provides evidence-based clinical information about exposure to any type of drug, disease, etc., during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Its website includes details of ongoing and completed research, as well as patient-friendly factsheets. View it here: http://www.otispregnancy.org/hm/

The Drugs and Lactation database (LactMed) is an American peer-reviewed database of drugs to which breastfeeding mothers may be exposed. It is supported by the US National Library of Medicine. Topics include the possible effects of each drug on mothers and infants, as well as alternative medication, and are fully referenced. It is freely accessible here: http://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov/cgi-bin/sis/htmlgen?LACT

BMJ Best Treatments

2009-05-27T13:02:00.000-07:00

The Guardian has teamed up with the British Medical Journal Group to provide access to Best Treatments: a source of independent, high quality patient information on a wide range of health topics. For patient-friendly information about the causes and symptoms of a medical condition, and the top treatment options, click on http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/besttreatments

Neurological Conditions

2009-05-25T12:06:00.000-07:00

'NHS Evidence - neurological conditions' has recently published its May 2009 Update.

New additions include guidelines from the Intensive Care Society and NICE, a number of Cochrane Reviews and various neurology-related patient information video clips produced by NHS Choices.

Editors' Picks include a report from the Stroke Association and a review on the treatment of non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's Disease.

To view the latest evidence in this area, click here: http://tinyurl.com/d65zfe

Annual Evidence Update on Rhinitis

2009-05-25T11:54:00.000-07:00

The 2009 Annual Evidence Update for Rhinitis has now been published and it presents quality research evidence from the past 12 months on key rhinitis topics, along with ongoing therapeutic uncertainties. The contents include recently published guidelines, clinical tools, statistics, systematic reviews, clinical trials and diagnositic studies, as well as links to evaluated patient information websites.

The update pages are available at http://tinyurl.com/qstqr8 and would be useful for healthcare professionals working in ENT, respiratory and primary care.

MAY 2009

2009-05-08T04:52:00.000-07:00

"April showers bring forth May flowers..."

1670 J. Ray English Proverbs 41

Update on Rheumatoid Arthritis

2009-04-28T12:29:00.000-07:00

The former Musculoskeletal Specialist Library (now called NHS Evidence - Musculoskeletal) has just produced its third Annual Evidence Update on Rheumatoid Arthritis. This focuses on guidance and systematic reviews published since March 2008. The majority of publications relate to various aspects of treatment with biologics, but other aspects of rheumatoid disease management are featured in the update as well. Also included are the results of a search for new national guidance, and a commentary discussing the latest evidence. This update is the first to include a section on treatment uncertainties and also horizon scanning - evidence which will be published on rheumatoid arthritis in the future.

To see the update, click on the link http://www.library.nhs.uk/musculoskeletal/ and scroll down the page.

Supporting people in later life

2009-04-28T12:15:00.000-07:00

The 2009 Annual Evidence Update (AEU) on Supporting People in Later Life has been brought to you by the Later Life Specialist Library. It focuses on the specific challenges of independent living that are often faced by people in later life. This AEU brings together secondary research in the form of systematic reviews, guidelines and important policy documents. Topics covered in the update include diet and exercise, independent living, acute care, primary care, residential care and carer support. The resources are aimed at helping health professionals to support those who are experiencing challenges with independent living because of serious health issues.

The Supporting People Update is available here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/LATERLIFE/ViewResource.aspx?resID=312445&tabID=289

Childhood obesity: surveillance and prevention

2009-04-23T07:07:00.001-07:00

The Public Health Specialist Library has just produced its second Annual Evidence Update on Obesity, focusing on the surveillance and prevention of childhood obesity.

There has been a considerable amount of new evidence published on the prevention of childhood obesity, particularly in terms of diet, physical activity and protection due to breast feeding. The National Obesity Observatory has reviewed the evidence and produced summaries which highlight the implications for current schemes such as the National Childhood Measurement Programme.

Included in this update are toolkits, guidance and an expert editorial. You can view it here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/publichealth/viewResource.aspx?resid=311366

Acupuncture : Annual Evidence Update

2009-04-23T06:48:00.000-07:00

The Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Specialist Library has recently published its 2009 Annual Evidence Update on Acupuncture. The Update brings together relevant systematic reviews and randomised controlled trials published between February 2008 and February 2009.

Strict selection criteria was applied in order to identify the best current evidence available. The studies included in the update have not been fully appraised, but a link is provided to an appraisal where one exists. There is also a link to a list of appraisal tools, if you wish to appraise the studies yourself.

The contents list of the update on acupuncture is available here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/cam/ViewResource.aspx?resID=311356&tabID=289

Schizophrenia Annual Evidence Update 2009

2009-04-17T13:26:00.000-07:00

This week, the 2009 Update on Schizophrenia has been published by the team in the Mental Health Specialist Library. The Update contains the best evidence to have been published on schizophrenia since January 2008. From epidemiology and risk factors to diagnosis and treatment, it draws together evidence summaries, care pathways, important primary research and service development literature.

The contents of the Update can be viewed here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/MENTALHEALTH/ViewResource.aspx?resID=310224&tabID=289

Annual Evidence Update on Cardiac Rehabilitation

2009-04-17T13:07:00.000-07:00

The Annual Evidence Update (AEU) on Cardiac Rehabilitation is out now!

Published by the Cardiovascular Diseases Specialist Library, its aim is to inform healthcare professionals and patients of the significant advances made in the knowledge regarding cardiac rehabilitation since the first AEU in June 2008.

Along with systematic reviews, meta-analyses and other resources, the AEU has an expert commentary and a 'What's New' analysis, discussing new evidence and its implications for practice.

View it here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/cardiovascular/viewResource.aspx?resid=305805

2009 Annual Evidence Update on Colorectal Cancer

2009-04-17T12:52:00.000-07:00

The Cancer Specialist Library has recently published its second Annual Evidence Update on Colorectal Cancer, to coincide with Bowel Cancer Awareness Month. The topic areas covered this year are:

causes, risks and prevention
screening

assessment and diagnosis

treatment and disease management

service delivery and standards

Resources include news items, guidelines, systematic reviews, clinical trials, statistics and patient information. There is also an expert commentary. To see all the resources available, click here:
http://www.library.nhs.uk/Cancer/ViewResource.aspx?resID=310981&tabID=289

APRIL 2009

2009-04-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

We thought James's photo of shredded paper was highly appropriate for the end of the financial year. Happy New Year, everyone! :-)

National Library for Public Health e-newsletter

2009-03-31T08:10:00.000-07:00

Are you interested in any of the following areas?

accidents & injuries, cancer, cardiovascular disease, children & young people, communicable diseases, commissioning, dental health, diet & nutrition, health inequalities, mental health, obesity, offender & prison health, older people, physical activity, sexual health, substance misuse and women's health

If so, the National Library for Public Health is for you! The library has been developed to provide high quality evidence e-based information on all aspects of public health. It is designed for those working in the field of public health by providing a single source of access to web based evidence on public health.

The March edition of the Library's newsletter has published new resources on all these topics, so click on the following link to find out what's new in public health: http://tinyurl.com/57u6uc

Kidney Diseases Newsletter

2009-03-31T06:44:00.000-07:00

The Kidney Diseases Specialist Library is for busy health professionals, providing them with high quality information and keeping them up to date with the latest research in this area.

The March 2009 Kidney Diseases Specialist Library Newsletter is out now and includes guidance such as 'Primary Care Service Framework: Vascular Checks', podcasts from presentations at the National Kidney Federation's Annual Patients' Conference and patient information on avoiding kidney disease.

You can access all the information here: http://tinyurl.com/ab5ne3

Neurological Conditions March 2009 Update

2009-03-31T06:10:00.000-07:00

The latest bulletin from the Neurological Conditions Specialist Library (NCSL) aims to update you on interesting items recently added to the library by the Clinical Lead and Topic Advisors.

The NCSL March 2009 Update includes documents associated with the National Dementia Strategy and the National Stroke Strategy, guidelines from NICE, BOAST and the British Pain Society, and also e-learning modules on dementia, epilepsy, stroke and Parkinson's disease.

To improve your awareness of current issues as well as the latest research and developments in neurological conditions, click here: http://tinyurl.com/45gfkt

2009 Update on Hearing Disorders

2009-03-31T05:50:00.000-07:00

The Annual Evidence Update on Hearing Disorders is now available. It has been published by the ENT and Audiology Specialist Library with the aim of presenting relevant research evidence from the past 12 months and therapeutic uncertainties where research gaps exist.

Health professionals working in audiology, ENT and related services, as well as primary care staff who would like to learn more about hearing disorders, will find this update useful. Topics include hearing aids, cochlear implants, tinnitus and newborn screening. There is also signposting to patient information and support.

Click here to enter the site: http://www.library.nhs.uk/ENT/ViewResource.aspx?resID=307109&tabID=289

Annual Evidence Update on Inflammatory Bowel Disease

2009-03-27T09:04:00.000-07:00

The NLH Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Specialist Library project team has carried out a systematic search on Inflammatory Bowel Disease to identify all high level evidence published in the past year; namely guidelines, systematic reviews, health technology assessments and economic evaluations. Leading experts from around the UK have read and appraised these for their validity and relevance to the busy clinician.

A list of the most useful papers, along with commentary from the experts, is available on the site at http://www.library.nhs.uk/gastroliver/viewResource.aspx?resID=309257. This year, the team has also begun to identify uncertainties in research to contribute to the DUETs project. (See www.library.nhs.uk/duets for more details).

North West Healthcare Science Network - new website!

2009-03-11T07:32:00.000-07:00

March 6th-15th is Healthcare Science Awareness Week and the North West Healthcare Science Network has launched its new website.

Over the coming weeks, a host of features will become available for healthcare scientists who are working throughout the NHS in the North West. These will include a clinical leadership programme, a North West ambassador scheme and a newsletter. There will also be a new portfolio for Continuing Professional Development.

A useful online resource to keep healthcare scientists updated with local, regional and national developments and events.

To see what the Network has to offer, click here: http://www.nwhcs.nhs.uk/

MARCH 2009

2009-03-03T07:45:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone!

We haven't got any photos of March hares for you, I'm afraid, so here's a scene from the city instead, just for a change...

Horizon Scanning: a guide to best practice

2009-03-01T14:57:00.000-08:00

Horizon Scanning is a new initiative by the North West Primary Care Librarians to gather together information on best practice, innovations and future risks, to support the commissioning process and service re-design. You can subscribe to receive an e-mail newsletter of each new update when it is published. Here are the links to the topics that have been published so far:

DIABETES TYPE 2: http://diabetestype2nwpctl.wordpress.com
STROKE: http://strokenwpctl.wordpress.com
OBESITY: http://obesitynwpctl.wordpress.com/
IMMUNISATION: http://immunisationnwpctl.wordpress.com/
CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES: http://cardionwpctl.wordpress.com
COMMUNITY DIAGNOSTICS: http://communitydiagnosticsnwpctl.wordpress.com
BREASTFEEDING: http://breastfeedingnwpctl.wordpress.com
DENTAL HEALTH: http://dentalnwpctl.wordpress.com
URGENT CARE: http://urgentcarenwpctl.wordpress.com/
SUSTAINABILITY: http://sustainabilitynwpctl.wordpress.com/

Other updates will shortly become available on topics such as COPD, Cancer, Substance abuse, Sexual health, Emotional health and well-being, End of life care and Patient experience.

Skin Disease Finder

2009-03-01T14:31:00.000-08:00

VisualDxHealth has produced the website Skin Disease Finder, which provides medical images of common conditions affecting various parts of the body. Skin diseases are categorised by age group and gender, and are described in terms of risk factors, treatments and recommendations for self-care. Useful, both for clinician decision-making, as well as for patient information.

Try it out by clicking on this link: http://www.visualdxhealth.com/myDiseaseFinder.htm

Update from the Gastroenterology & Liver Diseases Specialist Library

2009-03-01T01:37:00.000-08:00

The February edition of the Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Specialist Library (GLDSL) newsletter is out now.

Dr Martyn Caplin, Clinical Lead for the GLDSL, has highlighted some of the most interesting journal articles that have recently been published in the field of gastroenterology and liver diseases.

The latest guidelines from the British Society of Gastroenterology, the Primary Care Society for Gastroenterology, NICE and other organisations are also available to view.

To view the update online, please follow this link: http://tinyurl.com/3ko3v8

Neurological Conditions Specialist Library February e-update‏

2009-03-01T01:11:00.000-08:00

This bulletin from the Neurological Conditions Specialist Library aims to update you on interesting items recently added to the library, the latest journal articles as highlighted by the Clinical Lead and Topic Advisors, upcoming events of interest and what the project team are currently working on.

Recent additions include new guidelines published by relevant associations, systematic reviews published by the Cochrane Library, patient information and podcasts.

To read the online newsletter, please click here: http://tinyurl.com/45gfkt

2009 Annual Evidence Update on Tinnitus‏

2009-03-01T00:54:00.000-08:00

For those of you who work in ENT, Audiology and primary health care, the 2009 Annual Evidence Update (AEU) on tinnitus is now available from the ENT and Audiology Specialist Library.

The update presents expert commentary by Veronica Kennedy on major research themes, and a comprehensive collection of up-to-date research evidence published in the previous 12 months. It also includes a section on therapeutic uncertainties where research gaps exist.

There are also patient information resources available, such as factsheets and information on products and support groups.

The AEU on tinnitus is available at http://tinyurl.com/bxmjt3

Kidney Diseases Specialist Library newsletter‏

2009-03-01T00:40:00.000-08:00

The Kidney Diseases Specialist Library has launched its first e-newsletter, to provide busy health professionals with high quality information and to keep them up to date with the latest research and developments in this field.

New resources include guidance, evidence, CPD and patient information.

If you have an interest in renal healthcare, click here: http://tinyurl.com/dnyocb

Annual Evidence Update on chest pain

2009-03-01T00:21:00.000-08:00

The Cardiovascular Diseases Specialist Library (CVDSL) has launched its second Annual Evidence Update on Chest Pain for health professionals and patients.

Guidelines, evidence and patient information are presented on topics such as the diagnosis, management and prevention of acute coronary syndromes and chest pain.

To see the significant advances in knowledge about chest pain since the first update was published in 2007, click here:

http://www.library.nhs.uk/cardiovascular/viewResource.aspx?resid=305729

DUETS

2009-02-06T08:09:00.000-08:00

DUETs has been established in the UK to publish uncertainties about the effects of treatments that cannot currently be answered by referring to reliable, up-to-date systematic reviews of existing research evidence. UK DUETs has now been incorporated into the NLH Search. It is included on the Evidence hubpage and is searchable

FEBRUARY 2009

2009-02-03T02:43:00.000-08:00

No snowy pictures available, so here's a serene picture of Swan Lake instead!

Launch of a new journal: Genome Medicine

2009-02-02T02:24:00.000-08:00

Genome Medicine is an online peer-reviewed journal which publishes research articles of outstanding quality in all areas of medicine studied from a genomic or post-genomic perspective. The journal emphasises research into the clinical use of new genomic diagnostics and therapeutics and has a special focus on the latest technologies and findings that impact on the understanding and management of human health and disease.

Genome Medicine is an open access journal, ensuring that information on the latest research advances are available, not just to researchers, but also to physicians and their patients around the world, providing up-to-date information that will affect medical treatments.

Access its free articles here: http://genomemedicine.com/

INFOcus

2009-02-02T01:33:00.000-08:00

A new website has been launched to support NHS staff in the north west of England who use, manage and share information to support the delivery of healthcare. The INFOcus service aims to support staff in delivering first class quality of care through access to knowledge and information. It provides details of training and resources, and also professional development opportunities and relevant news. The website covers specialty areas of health informatics such as Clinical Coding, Clinical Audit, Knowledge Management and Information Governance. It also includes a very useful web directory of health-related websites, categorised into key subject areas.

The website can be accessed here: http://www.infocusnorthwest.nhs.uk/

Annual Evidence Update on Patient and Carer Involvement in Chronic Disease

2009-02-02T01:09:00.000-08:00

The Palliative and Supportive Care Specialist Library has produced an Annual Evidence Update on Patient and Carer Involvement in Chronic Disease. It collects together the best current knowledge on self care in chronic disease management. Key resources from a small sample of chronic conditions such as kidney disease and lymphoedema, as well as end of life care, are placed within the general theme of user involvement in health services.

Click on the link for policies, systematic reviews and other resources:

http://www.library.nhs.uk/palliative/ViewResource.aspx?resID=304326&tabID=290

Rehabilitation Reference Center and Nursing Reference Center

2009-02-02T00:56:00.000-08:00

The National Library for Health has secured a three month trial of Ebsco's Rehabilitation Reference Center and Nursing Reference Center.

Rehabilitation Reference Center is a clinical reference tool designed for use by rehabilitation clinicians, physical therapists and occupational therapists at the point of care. It provides valid and relevant information using the best available evidence to help support clinical decisions.

Nursing Reference Center is a user-friendly, point-of-care resource intended for staff nurses, nurse administrators, nursing students and hospital librarians. It delivers the best available and most recent clinical evidence and knowledge on conditions and diseases.

You can access both resources by logging into my Athens and clicking either onto the link to 'Ebsco Host Databases' or 'CINAHL with full text'.

Web tutorials on Essential Evidence Plus

2009-02-02T00:54:00.000-08:00

Essential Evidence Plus is an online decision-support system focused on improving patient care and increasing clinical efficiency. It incorporates reviews from the Cochrane Library. It filters for relevance and usefulness, and grades the evidence for accuracy and validity.

To learn more: click on the link below to register and select the recorded presentation of your choice. Please be sure that the audio is turned up on your computer.
http://www.brainshark.com/wiley/eep

TRIP Answers

2009-02-01T08:59:00.000-08:00

TRIP have released a new site called TRIP Answers that may be of interest to clinicians.
TRIP Answers is a repository of clinical Q&As from a large number of organisations around the world and currently holds over 5,600. More than one hundred new Q&As are added weekly. Each Q&A is evidence graded and can be located via searching or browsing via 'tag clouds', which are groups of keywords associated with each Q&A.
You can enter the site by clicking on the following address: www.tripanswers.org/

Cardio, Stroke and Vascular e-bulletin out now!

2009-02-01T03:29:00.000-08:00

A new issue of the Cardiovascular Diseases, Stroke and Vascular Specialist Libraries e-bulletin has been published.

It covers additions to all three libraries from December 2008 to January 2009.

The e-bulletin can be accessed here:
http://www.wish-uk.org/ebullJan09.htm

This link is also available via the Cardiovascular, Stroke and Vascular website homepages.

2009 Annual Evidence Update on Urinary Incontinence‏

2009-02-01T03:17:00.000-08:00

The Women's Health Specialist Library has collaborated with the Kidney Diseases and Male Urogenital Disorders Specialist Library to produce the 2009 Annual Evidence Update on Urinary Incontinence.

A great deal of literature is published yearly, and the aim of this annual evidence update is to direct attention to the relevant information gleaned from papers published about male and female urinary incontinence in recent years.

Click below for the links to the Contents page for male urinary incontinence:

http://www.library.nhs.uk/kidney/ViewResource.aspx?resID=301849&tabID=289

and for female urinary incontinence:

http://www.library.nhs.uk/womenshealth/page.aspx?pagename=09UIAEUCON

ENT and Audiology Update‏

2009-02-01T03:03:00.000-08:00

For those of you working with ENT, Audiology and related areas, the January / February update of recent guidelines, clinical tools and systematic reviews added to the ENT and Audiology Specialist Library is now available. ENT and audiology research continues to progress relentlessly and new evidence is being added to the library as it emerges to keep you well informed. This update highlights the recent additions to the site - just follow the links for further details of each resource.

Click here to read more: http://www.library.nhs.uk/ENT/ViewResource.aspx?resID=302111&tabID=290&catID=11484

Annual Evidence Update on Patient Involvement in Patient Safety

2009-02-01T02:51:00.000-08:00

The Patient and Public Involvement Specialist Library has released an Annual Evidence Update on Patient Involvement in Patient Safety. Included in this update are articles, reports, and information on initiatives published since the original National Knowledge Week on Patient Involvement in Patient Safety in November 2007.

You can view the update by clicking on the following link:

http://www.library.nhs.uk/ppi/viewResource.aspx?resid=304862&code=38fddebecf00a7923619e13

January 2009

2009-01-09T07:26:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year to you all!

Best wishes for 2009 from all of us in the library.

Cardiovascular Diseases, Stroke and Vascular Specialist Libraries eBulletin

2009-01-02T14:58:00.000-08:00

The latest edition of the e-bulletin of the Cardiovascular, Vascular and Stroke Specialist Libraries has now been uploaded. It contains new developments, recent publications and the latest news for all three of the libraries.
Click here http://www.wish-uk.org/ebullDec08.htm to view the online bulletin.

Neurological Conditions Specialist Library update‏

2009-01-02T14:36:00.000-08:00

The latest update from the Neurological ConditionsSpecialist Library is out now. As well as highlighting the latest evidence, guidelines and reports, this bulletin also contains a 60 minute e-learning workshop on dementia.

Click on the following web address to access the online newsletter: http://www.library.nhs.uk/neurological/Page.aspx?prv=y&pagename=ONLINENEWS

Annual Evidence Update on Spinal Diseases

2009-01-02T13:29:00.000-08:00

The Trauma and Orthopaedics Specialist Library in conjunction with the Musculoskeletal Specialist Library has released an Annual Evidence Update on Spinal Diseases. Included in this Update are guidelines and systematic reviews produced within the last few years on the following topics: low back pain, ankylosing spondylitis, degenerative disc and burst fracture.
Find out more at: http://www.library.nhs.uk/trauma_orthopaedics/

Gastroenterology & Liver Diseases Specialist Library Update

2009-01-02T13:15:00.000-08:00

The latest update from the Gastroenterology & Liver Diseases Specialist Library has recently been published. This bulletin highlights new additions to the library, the latest journal articles and upcoming events of interest. There is a guest editorial on the subject of Autoimmune Pancreatitis.
The newsletter can be viewed here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/gastroliver/Page.aspx?prv=y&pagename=NEWS

Stroke Rehabilitation Annual Evidence Update

2009-01-02T13:09:00.000-08:00

The Stroke Specialist Library has launched the Stroke Rehabilitation Annual Evidence Update (AEU). This is the first AEU that has been undertaken on a stroke-related topic. The Update focuses on a number of the key components of stroke rehabilitation within the National Stroke Strategy.
Access the Update here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/stroke/Page.aspx?prv=y&pagename=SAEUINTRO0

DECEMBER 2008

2008-11-30T13:37:00.001-08:00

Season's greetings from James!

Launch of the 2008 Annual Evidence Update on Diagnosing HIV

2008-11-29T16:12:00.000-08:00

The Infections Specialist Library has launched its first Annual Evidence Update on Diagnosing HIV. This Update is timed to coincide with World AIDS Day on the 1st December. The National Library for Public Health will be presenting a complementary evidence update on behaviour change in high-risk populations as part of the Sexual Health National Knowledge Week from the 1st to the 7th December.

There is a vast amount of literature on HIV and AIDS, so the Infections Specialist Library has chosen to focus on diagnosing HIV for its first update, and uses the UK National Guidelines for HIV testing as a starting document. There are commentaries written by experts on various subtopics, and links to other useful websites are provided.

The Update can be accessed here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/Infections/ViewResource.aspx?resID=299385

Oral cancer Annual Evidence Update 2008

2008-11-29T15:55:00.000-08:00

16th - 22nd November was Mouth Cancer Awareness Week. In recognition of this, the Oral Health Specialist Library presented its Annual Evidence Update on oral cancer. The update provides a summary of the best available information - systematic reviews, meta-analyses and guidelines - published since last year's update. There is also a range of patient information, and a commentary on ethnicity and oral cancer.

Read the update here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/oralhealth/ViewResource.aspx?resID=297162&tabID=290

The Annual Evidence Update for COPD is out now

2008-11-29T15:19:00.000-08:00

The Respiratory Specialist Library brings to you the Annual Evidence Update for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases (COPD). Building on the comprehensive review presented in February 2008 to inform the National Service Framework (NSF) for people with COPD, this update will detail the very latest systematic reviews and other evidence published this year on COPD. The NSF will be published at the end of 2008. Further information is available from the British Lung Foundation.
Here is the link to the Update for COPD: http://www.library.nhs.uk/respiratory/ViewResource.aspx?resID=298651&tabID=290&summaries=true&resultsPerPage=10&sort=TITLE&catID=5880

Annual Evidence Update on Lung Cancer

2008-11-28T13:41:00.000-08:00

The Cancer Specialist Library launched its Lung Cancer Annual Evidence Update this month, to coincide with Lung Cancer National Knowledge Week. The update mainly consists of systematic reviews and guidance published within the last year. The material is divided into a wide variety of topics such as prevention, screening, diagnosis and treatment. Click on the link to view the contents: http://www.library.nhs.uk/Cancer/Page.aspx?pagename=LNKW08

Diabetes Annual Evidence Update

2008-11-27T02:17:00.000-08:00

The Diabetes Specialist Library has recently published its second Diabetes Annual Evidence Update. This identifies new evidence on diabetes published between August 2007 and September 2008. The new evidence has been categorised under various headings such as treatments, complications, pregnancy, screening and epidemiology, which makes the vast amount of information on diabetes more accessible. The update can be viewed here:
http://www.library.nhs.uk/Diabetes/Page.aspx?pagename=AEU08.

Launch of the Commissioning Specialist Library

2008-11-26T03:57:00.000-08:00

The National Library for Health has launched its Commissioning Specialist Library (CSL). This free resource aims to be a one-stop shop for all those involved in commissioning for health. It will provide access to the best available evidence, with examples of good practice, policy and data to support world-class commissioning. Click on the following link to access the CSL: http://www.library.nhs.uk/commissioning/

2008 Annual Evidence Update on Glaucoma

2008-11-26T03:47:00.000-08:00

The 2008 Annual Evidence Update on Glaucoma is now available from the Eyes and Vision Specialist Library. It presents all the key evidence that has been published since the Knowledge Week in October 2007. Sections include epidemiology, screening, patient education and living with Glaucoma.
Read the information here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/eyes/Page.aspx?pagename=AEUGLA2008

To tie in with the Annual Evidence Update on Glaucoma, the Later Life Specialist Library is hosting a special feature on driving and Glaucoma. This provides a brief synopsis of recent evidence regarding the impact on and implications for driving, fitness to drive and visual standards for driving. It also indicates sources for patient information. This special feature is available here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/laterlife/viewResource.aspx?resid=299770&code=8e2d7c040570409fb4935087a260a4d2

The Global Library of Women’s Medicine

2008-11-26T03:31:00.000-08:00

The Global Library of Women’s Medicine has recently been launched online and is freely available. It is a web-based library containing a vast range of clinical information across the whole spectrum of women’s medicine. All the resources have been peer-reviewed by experts. The Library aims to support all health professionals in their care of female patients, but there is also patient information available. Access it here: http://www.glowm.com/

2008 Annual Evidence Update on Psoriasis

2008-11-21T06:16:00.000-08:00

The Skin Disorders Specialist Library has produced its second Annual Evidence Update on Psoriasis. This brings together all the latest information on the treatment and management of psoriasis and the impact it has on patients. This includes national guidelines and systematic reviews published since the last update in November 2007. There is also a ‘What’s New’ section, which analyses the evidence and its implications for practice.
Click here to access the update: http://www.library.nhs.uk/skin/Page.aspx?pagename=PSORHOME

If this is of interest to you, you may also like to know that the Musculoskeletal Specialist Library has recently produced an Annual Evidence Update on Psoriatic Arthritis. View it here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/musculoskeletal/ViewResource.aspx?resID=296801&tabID=289&catID=1021

The Vascular Specialist Library is launched!

2008-11-20T07:59:00.000-08:00

The new Vascular Specialist Library has officially been launched.
The library aims to keep its users informed of the latest evidence that has been published on the prevention and treatment of diseases of the arteries, veins and lymphatics. This will include a wide range of sources such as guidelines, systematic reviews and statistical data.

To view the launch editorial of the new library, click on the following link: http://www.library.nhs.uk/vascular/Page.aspx?&pagename=ED01

To see the latest eBulletin of the Cardiovascular Diseases, Stroke and Vascular Specialist Libraries, click here: http://www.wish-uk.org/bulletin_10_08.htm

ENT and Audiology Update

2008-11-17T05:31:00.000-08:00

The ENT and Audiology Specialist Library has produced a new update of all the latest evidence in ENT, audiology and thyroid disorders.
The November / December 2008 issue contains the most recent guidelines and systematic reviews.
Read it here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/ENT/ViewResource.aspx?resID=297071&tabID=290&catID=11484.

NOVEMBER 2008

2008-11-03T03:21:00.001-08:00

Salford at its best!

Annual Evidence Update on Diabetic Retinopathy 2008

2008-10-31T09:00:00.000-07:00

The Diabetes Specialist Library has gathered and evaluated information on topics suggested by diabetic retinopathy experts and compiled them into an update for National Knowledge Week for Diabetic Retinopathy. The comprehensive collection includes systematic reviews, guidelines and primary research.
Click on the link to access the knowledge updates: http://www.library.nhs.uk/diabetes/Page.aspx?pagename=DR

NHS System Reform Annual Update October 2008

2008-10-29T05:03:00.000-07:00

The Health Management Specialist Library has brought together the latest evidence, published since June 2007, about several key aspects of NHS reform. These include patient choice, payment by results, commissioning, foundation trusts, alternative providers (such as independent and third sector) and regulation. Click here to view the update: http://www.library.nhs.uk/healthManagement/page.aspx?pagename=AEUSR

National Knowledge Week for Ethnicity and Health 2008

2008-10-29T04:51:00.000-07:00

The Ethnicity and Health Specialist Library has published a series of articles for its National Knowledge Week for Ethnicity and Health 2008. The articles have been written by experts and include topics such as commissioning, oral health, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and learning difficulties.
Click on the link to view the complete list of articles: http://www.library.nhs.uk/ethnicity/Page.aspx?prv=y&pagename=NKW2008

Vital Signs

2008-10-27T09:56:00.001-07:00

Operational Plans 2008/09 - 2010/11

The Operating Framework, published the end of last year, introduced a new approach to planning and managing our priorities both nationally and locally – the Vital Signs. This guidance explains how organisations can use the Vital Signs to develop local operational plans to deliver against national priorities and how to select - or even create - local priorities. The document sets out how performance will be managed against each of the three tiers of the Vital Signs, limiting central performance management to the tier one national priorities and beyond that only to those areas or organisations where performance is weak. Click here for the link

Annual Evidence Update 2008 - Osteoarthritis

2008-10-24T10:49:00.000-07:00

The Musculoskeletal Specialist Library has worked with the Trauma & Orthopaedics Specialist Library to do a detailed literature search of all the evidence published on Osteoarthritis in the preceding year. The result is the Annual Evidence Update 2008. Guidance from NICE, RCP and Clinical Knowledge Summaries are included in the Update, as are systematic reviews of pharmacological therapies, physical therapies, complementary and alternative therapies, and surgery. Click here to see the Update: http://www.library.nhs.uk/musculoskeletal/

2008 Annual Evidence Update on Breast Cancer

2008-10-24T10:42:00.000-07:00

The Cancer Specialist Library has launched its 2008 Annual Evidence Update on Breast Cancer. The resources are mostly systematic reviews and some guidance, all published between 2007 and 2008. The amount of literature reviewed is so large that the Update has been divided into three parts. Click on the link to review the resources available: http://www.library.nhs.uk/Cancer/Page.aspx?pagename=KW08BCCO

Heart Failure National Evidence Update

2008-10-24T10:35:00.000-07:00

The Cardiovascular Diseases Specialist Library has produced the 2008 Annual Evidence Update on Heart Failure. A panel of experts has reviewed all the high quality literature produced since last year. The result is an update of systematic reviews and other key evidence on heart failure, which you can view here:
http://www.library.nhs.uk/cardiovascular/Page.aspx?prv=y&pagename=HFAEU08INT

Hepatitis B & C Annual Evidence Update 2008

2008-10-24T10:26:00.001-07:00

The Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Specialist Library has produced a Hepatitis B & C Annual Evidence Update, drawing from evidence published in 2007 and 2008. The literature has been reviewed by subject specialists and divided into categories such as diagnosis, treatment and risk factors. View the Update here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/Gastroliver/ViewResource.aspx?resID=292642&tabID=289&catID=13873

Annual Evidence Update on Headache

2008-10-24T10:15:00.000-07:00

The Neurological Conditions Specialist Library has published the Headache Annual Evidence Update. Literature published from 2006 to 2008 was gathered and peer-reviewed for this update, which contains guidelines, systematic reviews and other high quality evidence. To view the evidence on treatment, prevention and other aspects of headache, click here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/neurological/ViewResource.aspx?resID=292337

Depression Annual Evidence Update 2008

2008-10-24T07:53:00.000-07:00

The Mental Health Specialist Library has searched four major databases for high-quality evidence of depression and has produced an Annual Evidence Update. The evidence, published between January 2007 and August 2008, has been organised into four categories: Incidence and prevalence, diagnosis, treatment and populations. To peruse the Update, click on the following link: http://www.library.nhs.uk/mentalHealth/Page.aspx?pagename=DEPRESSION

healthtalkonline.org

2008-10-17T06:40:00.000-07:00

DIPEx, the Database of Individual Patient Experiences, has changed its name to Healthtalkonline.

People around the UK from a variety of different backgrounds share their experiences of illnesses and general health topics such as bereavement. There are interview clips and an online forum. It is a useful site, not only for patients, but also for healthcare professionals who can view the effects of an illness from a patient's perspective.

See more at http://www.healthtalkonline.org/

The Information Centre has a new look!

2008-10-17T06:15:00.000-07:00

The NHS Information Centre website has been revamped with a new look and extra functions.

There is high-quality information for frontline staff in areas such as commissioning, public health, finance and performance. It is also a useful source of statistics and data collections. One new feature is an interactive map that demonstrates every stage of the commissioning process.

Click on http://www.ic.nhs.uk/ and try it out!

Opinion: Why current publication practices may distort science

2008-10-13T08:44:00.000-07:00

An interesting opinion piece from the essay section of PLoS Medicine, a peer-reviewed journal published by the PLoS (the Public Library of Science). The PLoS is a not-for-profit organisation which is dedicated to producing scientific and medical literature that is freely available to everyone.

Read the article here: http://medicine.plosjournals.org/perlserv/?request=get-document&doi=10.1371%2Fjournal.pmed.0050201

Health and Care Services for Older People: Overview report on research to support the National Service Framework for Older People

2008-10-08T01:24:00.000-07:00

This report summarises the key findings from a group of 16 studies commissioned by the Policy Research Programme under the ‘Older People’s use of services’ Research Initiative. The aim of the initiative was to inform and assess the implementation of the National Service Framework for Older People (2001).

OCTOBER 2008

2008-09-27T07:40:00.001-07:00

Roots in the Lake District (see our Library Newsletter for the broader picture)

Remember:
If you find this newsletter useful, let us know

Annual Evidence Update: Surgical Management of Faecal Incontinence

2008-09-23T07:08:00.000-07:00

This Annual Evidence Update (AEU) has been produced by the Specialist Library for Surgery, Theatres and Anaesthesia. It brings together the latest evidence from high quality studies on surgical procedures for the management of faecal incontinence. All the resources available have been published between October 2006 and July 2008. It is a useful source of evidence for commissioners and clinical staff in this field.

The AEU for the Surgical Management of Faecal Incontinence is available here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/theatres/viewResource.aspx?resid=293275&code=df87624d785fe0e665629be87d4aa39e

Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia Annual Evidence Update

2008-09-23T06:31:00.000-07:00

The Later Life Specialist Library has launched the Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia Annual Evidence Update (AEU), which provides access to evidence regarding the main forms of dementia. There are clinical commentaries on systematic reviews, guidelines and other resources on various related topics. The Dementia AEU is available here: http://www.library.nhs.uk/LaterLife/Page.aspx?pagename=DEMENTAEU

The Commissioning Specialist Library

2008-09-23T04:31:00.000-07:00

The Commissioning Specialist Library (CSL) is aimed at all those who are involved in commissioning for health. The key topics and toolkits provide evidence and good practice.
At the moment this is a pilot service, and more content will be added. The CSL is due to be launched formally in November 2008.
Access it here at http://www.library.nhs.uk/commissioning/

The Infections Specialist Library

2008-09-17T04:25:00.000-07:00

The Infections Specialist Library (ISL) has recently been launched to give healthcare professionals access to evidence-based resources for all aspects of infection control. There are reviews, guidelines, protocols and examples of best practice, as well as news items and events. Go to http://www.library.nhs.uk/infections to find out more.

September 2008

2008-08-29T05:06:00.001-07:00

Something to bring a smile to your face after a dreary summer. James photographed this giant rabbit at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park.

Journal Watch

2008-08-28T07:05:00.000-07:00

Journal Watch is a light-hearted review of the leading medical journals as seen from a GP's perspective. It is written by Dr Richard Lehman and is updated weekly. This week's instalment looks at topics such as the effects of vitamins on cardiovascular disease; arsenic and its link with type 2 diabetes; clinical leadership at NICE and drug pricing levels; a study of vitamin D levels in women with hip fractures and an argument for screening for haemochromatosis.
Read it at: http://www.primarycare.ox.ac.uk/journalwatch

INFOcus Learning Portal for the North West NHS

2008-08-28T06:05:00.000-07:00

This learning portal is for NHS staff in the North West of England. It provides access to a range of e-learning opportunities covering project management, programme management and IT service management. A range of free e-learning courses are available via the portal. Following the completion of the e-learning courses, there would be opportunities to sit the associated industry-recognised exams.

The portal is available here: www.ilxportal.com/infocus/

National electronic Library for Medicines is relaunched!

2008-08-28T03:54:00.000-07:00

The National electronic Library for Medicines (NeLM) is the largest medicines information portal for healthcare professionals in the NHS. The site has news, evidence-based reviews on drugs and drug therapy and health promotion material. It also provides a facility for sharing practice.
The NeLM has been relaunched with new software. This version is the first in a series of transformations as the site is redeveloped to provide a comprehensive medicines knowledge-base.
NHS staff with NHS e-mail addresses can register to receive the NeLM Newsletter, a daily e-mail update.
Find it at http://www.nelm.nhs.uk/en/

The NHS Workforce Review Team

2008-08-27T02:28:00.000-07:00

A new website launched on the 18th August by the NHS Workforce Review Team (WRT). This is a group of dedicated healthcare workforce planners who provide objective modelling, analysis and evidence-based recommendations in order to enable patient-centred and clinically driven strategic decision making across the healthcare workforce. On the site you can find their workforce summaries and models for each specialty and profession, details of their publications and project work, more information about WRT and links to other organisations, as well as the latest news that will be of interest to workforce planners.

Find it at http://www.wrt.nhs.uk/

August 2008

2008-07-31T10:53:00.000-07:00

James has not forgotten us.

A summer delight

Keeping up to date

2008-07-31T10:01:00.000-07:00

This can always be difficult. One way that can help you is to look at our news feeds for the following subject areas. (As a slight Escher moment you will see our sister Library Newsletter appearing on the feeds!) These, along with some not included here, can also be found on our Specialty Guides in the Knowledge Zone

Anaesthetics, critical and emergency care news
Cancer news
Cardiology news
ENT news
Dermatology news
Gastroenterology news
Haematology news
Medicine for older people news
Mental Health news
Neurology news
Nursing news
Nutritional
Obs and gynae news
Ophthalmology news
Paediatrics news
Palliative care news
Pathology news
Pharmacy news
Physio and OT news
Public Health news
Radiology news
Respiratory news
Rheumatology news
surgery news
Trauma and Orthopaedic news
Urology and Nephrology news

The final report of Lord Darzi's NHS Next Stage Review

2008-07-31T09:12:00.000-07:00

It responds to the 10 SHA strategic visions and sets out a vision for an NHS with quality at its heart. It ensures that health care will be personalised and fair, include the most effective treatments within a safe system, and help patients to stay healthy.

View here the DH site

View here a comprehensive summary produced by Newham NHS University Hospital Library Service

Health information for families...

2008-07-21T03:27:00.000-07:00

Great Ormond Street Hospital have a website of health information at http://www.childrenfirst.nhs.uk/

The site is split into info on children of different ages :

4 to 6,
7 to 11
and 12 to 18.
Plus there's a section for families

Info for Dads @ Dad.info

2008-07-21T03:15:00.000-07:00

Here's a website of health information aimed at a particular section of the public : Dads!

http://www.dad.info/health

The website includes health information about babies and children, new mums and dads. Indeed the site is broader than just health issues, covering a whole range of social and cultural ideas for bringing up kids, all from the male perspective.

Compare hospitals, and find patient opinion...

2008-07-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

The Healthcare Commission have improved their Heart Surgery section. See http://heartsurgery.healthcarecommission.org.uk/

NHS Choices also allows the public to compare hospitals for a range of treatments. See http://www.nhs.uk/scorecard/Pages/ScorecardWelcome.aspx

And finally, try Patient Opinion, where patients can make their own comments on the care they've received. See http://www.patientopinion.org.uk/

Click Stockport PCTs or Stockport Foundation Trust's for comments .

Going abroad on holiday? Part 1

2008-07-16T07:54:00.000-07:00

Have a look at TravelTurtle

This website tells you everything you need to know about health in the country you're going to.

Find the TravelTurtle here: http://www.travelturtle.co.uk/

Going abroad on holiday? Part 2

2008-07-16T07:40:00.000-07:00

HealthMap is ingenious.

Based on media stories from a range of sources, disease alerts are automatically placed on a map.

So it's useful for a global view of disease outbreaks.

But you can also zoom in to a particular country, or to limit the view to a particular disease.

So you could use it to track the latest news on outbreaks of C.diff and MRSA in the UK. It's easy to get through to the original news stories in just a couple of clicks.

Try out HealthMap here: http://www.healthmap.org/en

Map of Medicine Healthguides

2008-07-16T07:27:00.000-07:00

The Map of Medicine is an online resource which started life at University College London and The Royal Free Hampstead NHS Trust in 2001. The Map provides clinicians with a graphical, easy-to-follow pathway for managing conditions. The Map starts from the beginning, from investigationg and diagnosis in primary care, but then reaches through into secondary care, giving a complete overview of a topic.

The Map has now spread out across England and Wales, and can be customised at Trust level to take into account local guidelines and pathways.

The Map isn't yet up and running in Stockport, but a range of the topics are publically available.

See the publically accessible Maps, here:

http://healthguides.mapofmedicine.com/

And read more about the Map of Medicine here:

http://mapofmedicine.com/

New source for research results

2008-07-16T05:05:00.000-07:00

The passing of a law in the US is going to have a massive impact on the way that clinical trial results are disseminated.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Amendments Act 2007 mandates the public disclosure of trial results on the clinicaltrials.gov website within a year of completion.

The law will have far reaching consequences as it applies to all trials 'if the products concerned need approval by the FDA.' That means it doesn't matter who sponsors the trial, or where it's conducted : if the product is on the radar of the FDA, which reglates medicines in the USA, the responsible parties risk a fine of $10,000 for non-compliance.

The law comes into effect in September 2008.

For more on the FDA Amendments Act, see:
Editorial in the BMJ Use your NHS Athens
Editorial in PLoS Medicine

For more on trial resgistration, see
Ottawa statement on trial registration