Golden Jubilee National Hospital

The aim of the study is to determine whether the AQUACEL™ Ag SURGICAL cover dressing is successful in reducing the incidence of wound infection in high risk patients following total knee replacement. We will also look at the status of the wound, occurrence of blistering, biochemistry results, dressing wear time and the number of dressing changes to quantify the dressing performance.

The goal of this observational study is to assess the efficacy that the addition of novel markers cardiac function, particularly of right ventricular (RV) function in echocardiography, and ECG have in detecting pulmonary hypertension.
The main questions it aims to answer are:
Can novel markers in ECG and echocardiography suggest the presence of PH? Can existing screening guidelines be improved with the addition of these markers?

Role of the implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is to monitor heart rate and discharge a small electrical discharge or shock if the heart rate becomes life threatening. Patients and family members have requested more information about their ICD, how it works and how to live well with the device. This study will build on previous research by designing, in collaboration with patients, family members and professionals, an online resource to provide important information that can lower anxiety and concerns, and improve quality of life. The CHOICE-ICD resource will be easy to use, incorporating games and quizzes to encourage engagement, up to date information appropriate to each patient's needs, as well as animation clips, virtual reality, and short patient videos. CHOICE-ICD will be made available to 64 patients, in addition to normal care, awaiting or with a recently implanted ICD in Belfast and Glasgow. Patients will use the resource for 3 months. Patients and family members will then be asked to complete questionnaires and participate in semi-structured interviews. This study will develop 1st UK online resource providing information to enable patients to have greater choice and control in their care.