Educational bits from the BMJ
In addition to papers, lots of educational articles are published every week in the BMJ. Here are some useful ones that you might have missed. These articles are free on bmj.com, and to access them click on the links in the education section at Student BMJ.com. Or you can search by citation on bmj.com
Persistent atrial fibrillation: rate control or rhythm control?
Discusses data from five randomised trials and suggests that rate control is a good initial strategy for most patients with persistent atrial fibrillation. (BMJ 2003;326:1411-2) click here
Managing agitation and aggression after head injury
Head injuries are often associated with agitation and aggression, but the editorial discusses a recent finding that drugs are probably not the best option to treat these, and instead promotes early rehabilitation. (BMJ 2003;327:4-5) click here
American trypanosomiasis (Chagas' disease) and the role of molecular epidemiology in guiding control strategies
Pathology bonus points! Good description of an infection that has widespread consequences in Latin America and also a good example of the application of epidemiology in relation to transmission cycles. (BMJ 2003;326: 1444-8) click here
Viral lower respiratory tract infection in infants and young children.
A useful overview of the epidemiology, signs and symptoms, treatment, and prevention of