HIV transmission – protect yourself from infection
Preventing HIV transmission is actually relatively simple providing that you remember a few simple facts about the disease. HIV is not a very resilient virus outside of the human body, so it’s really only the transmission of bodily fluids that carry any real threat of infection.
The main mechanism of infection with HIV is through sexual contact with an infected person. To eliminate this risk, protection – such as condoms and dental dams – should be used when engaging in sexual acts with anyone whose HIV status is unknown to you.
Sharing needles with an infected person also carries a high risk of infection, so intravenous drug users should always use clean needles and discard them after a single use.
Categories: Medicine Tags: hiv transmission, sexual health, sti prevention
GUM clinic – practical medical technology
The UK’s GUM clinic network is an excellent example of how sophisticated medical technology runs seamlessly in an everyday situation, providing immense benefits to those who use them.
In the UK, healthcare is provided free of charge through the National Health Service. GUM clinics are free, drop-in centres which anyone can use anonymously for detection and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases including chlamydia, syphilis and HIV/AIDS. Sophisticated tests are routinely carried out to establish the presence or otherwise of these and many other sexually transmitted diseases. Treatment of such diseases is often very straightforward, with little more than a course of penicillin or antibiotics required.
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The role of GP appraisal in modern healthcare
The importance of the impact that doctors have on the lives of their patients cannot be overestimated. To ensure their skills and knowledge are up to date, all doctors have to undergo GP appraisal once a year. This formal evaluation is designed to safeguard the high standards that patients demand from healthcare professionals.
Before the appraisal, all GPs will have to fill in a detailed questionnaire to gather evidence about their performance and knowledge. The review is performed by a trusted colleague and is absolutely confidential.
After the evaluation, any concerns will be addressed and the doctor in question will identify new ways in which they can enhance their skills and knowledge and advance their professional performance.
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