The virtual CF clinic: Implications for sputum microbiology.

The COVID19 pandemic has shifted the paradigm of how outpatient clinics are delivered within CF care, resulting in a significant reduction of patient visits to CF centres. One consequence of this has been a reduction in the number of sputa/cough swabs that patients submit for routine analysis. This report examines why it is important to maintain optimal sputum microbiology and explores (i).

Nebuliser hygiene in cystic fibrosis: evidence-based recommendations.

Unlabelled: Nebulised therapies are extensively used in the daily therapeutic management of cystic fibrosis both for mucociliary clearance and for the management of chronic infections. Extensive developments have been made in relation to nebulised drug delivery mechanisms and drug formulations, and guidelines have been prepared that have addressed the appropriate use of such therapies. However, due to these developments, a plethora of nebuliser devices and drug chambers exist, and frequently, the limited guidance provided in relation to nebuliser hygiene is to follow manufacturers' instructions.

Nebuliser cleaning and disinfection practice in the home among patients with cystic fibrosis.

Background: Nebulised delivery of different classes of drugs is of fundamental importance in therapeutic regimens relating to both the management of disease progression in cystic fibrosis disease and its associated complications. The aim of this study was to determine if current nebuliser hygiene practices in the home environment by paediatric and adult cystic fibrosis populations are appropriate to ensure appropriate infection control and prevention measures have been addressed.

Methods: An Audit Questionnaire Study was completed with adult cystic fibrosis patients (=20) or with parents of cystic fibrosis children (=24), through a healthcare professional interview on a one-to-one basis, during either a home visit or during patient/parent attendance at cystic fibrosis clinic.

The effect of hypoxia on cognitive performance in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Air travel may cause significant hypoxia in passengers with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is not known whether this level of hypoxia will cause impairment in cognitive function. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of hypoxia on cognitive performance in patients with COPD when Pa(O2) was decreased <6.