Neurologic syndromes of the head and neck.

Although patients with Bell palsy and trigeminal neuralgia occasionally present to primary care physicians, most of the syndromes in this article are somewhat rare in primary care practice. It is important to recognize signs and symptoms of these syndromes so that appropriate management is carried out. Patients may experience sensory and/or motor symptoms of the head and neck due to disorders of the cranial and cervical nerves.

Evaluation and management of corneal abrasions.

Corneal abrasions are commonly encountered in primary care. Patients typically present with a history of trauma and symptoms of foreign body sensation, tearing, and sensitivity to light. History and physical examination should exclude serious causes of eye pain, including penetrating injury, infective keratitis, and corneal ulcers.

The RAFT approach to academic detailing with preceptors.

We have adapted "academic detailing" as a method to deliver real-time faculty development to nearly all community preceptors, both rural and urban, using the RAFT technique (Rapport-building, Assessment, Focused preceptor development, Thanks/Trinkets). The method is expensive in terms of faculty time and can be difficult to schedule. However, it has proven to be a valuable, learner-centered method that reaches preceptors missed by traditional faculty development workshops.