Medcast news and blog

This article explores the risks and management of dynamic hyperinflation in mechanically ventilated patients with status asthmaticus. It outlines causes such as airway obstruction and bronchospasm, and provides strategies for adjusting ventilation settings to minimise gas trapping, support cardiac function, and reduce complications like pneumothorax and systemic hypotension.

This is the second FastTrack on atrial fibrillation (AF). Part 1 described the diagnosis, initial assessment of AF, and indications for urgent review. This FastTrack describes the approach to setting a management strategy using risk calculators, how to assess and reduce risk factors, and long term monitoring of patients with AF.

While cardiac arrest is often a rare event, the high stakes nature means we need to be able to respond instinctively, ensuring immediate effective action when it matters most. How do you stay prepared in-between ALS or PALS courses?

Best-practice treatment of depression no longer considers pharmacotherapy as the default first-line therapy for many patients. In this FastTrack activity, you will update your knowledge of evidence-based interventions for major depression, including when to consider medications and when to cease them. Complete the quiz to receive 30mins EA and 30mins RP CPD.

Almost 90% of veterans report suffering from pain on transitioning out of military service and service-related injuries are often implicated. Open Arms and DVA have developed resources to support them and guide your care. Management includes education, non-medical interventions, allied health support, and selective medical treatments. Addressing mental health is crucial.

Nutrition plays a vital role in the recovery of critically ill patients. Evidence-based recommendations for patients in the ICU focus on the timing, energy requirement and protein targets as well as the role of micronutrients. The route of administration is not always straightforward and best guided by the patient's clinical needs, indications and contraindications.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is common and significantly impacts mortality, contributing to as many as 1 in 10 deaths in Australia. This FastTrack is the first of two, focusing on the diagnosis and management of AF, from the recommendations on opportunistic screening to identifying comorbidities and precipitating factors. Complete the quiz to earn 30mins EA and 30mins RP CPD.

As veterans transition from military service, they often face significant mental health challenges, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and adjustment difficulties. Managing these complex conditions requires a holistic, long-term approach, and general practitioners (GPs) are in a unique position to support veterans not only through referrals to mental health specialists but also through evidence-based lifestyle interventions that promote resilience and recovery.

The QUM Alliance welcomes new government grants to improve health literacy and medicine safety. Over three years, programs will tackle stroke prevention, osteoporosis, menopause, mental health and multimorbidity. Led by Medcast, the initiative supports health professionals and consumers, building on previous successes to reach priority populations.