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JUNE 15, 2021
| AFP Issue Frequency Change Coming Soon |
Beginning with the July 2021 issue, AFP will publish 12 issues per year instead of 24, with twice the amount of editorial content and CME credit in each one. Look for the first “double issue” in mid-July. Additional information is available.
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Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a heterogeneous group of conditions related to biologic and cellular abnormalities. Psychological factors do not cause IBS, but many people with IBS also have anxious or depressed mood, prior adverse life events, or psychosocial stressors. Physicians should understand the concerns and expectations of patients and the models the patients use to explain their illness and should empathetically respond to psychosocial cues. Anxiety related to the unpredictability of symptoms may have a greater effect on quality of life than the symptoms themselves. Treatments should focus on symptom relief and improved quality of life.
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Assistive devices such as canes, crutches, walkers, and wheelchairs can help to alleviate the effects of mobility limitations in older adults, providing improved independence and quality of life. Clinicians should understand how to select the appropriate device and size for individual patients and prescribe the device using the patient’s health insurance plan.
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Obstetric lacerations are a common complication of vaginal delivery and can lead to chronic pain and urinary and fecal incontinence. Perineal lacerations are defined by the depth of musculature involved. Late third-trimester perineal massage can reduce perineal lacerations in primiparous women. Lacerations involving the anal sphincter complex require additional expertise, exposure, and lighting. Postdelivery care should focus on pain control, preventing constipation, and monitoring for urinary retention. Acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should be administered for pain as needed. Osmotic laxative use leads to earlier bowel movements and less pain during the first bowel movement.
The annual installment of this series summarizes the top studies of 2020. These studies were summarized as POEMs (patient-oriented evidence that matters) and were highly rated by Canadian Medical Association members for clinical relevance. Topics in this group of studies include COVID-19, prevention and screening, and respiratory conditions.
CME credit for this article will be available when it is published in print.
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