Poor initiation of smoking cessation therapies in hospitalised patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is associated with low levels of formal training among hospital doctors and under-utilisation of nursing-led interventions.

Background: Smoking cessation intervention is a key component in the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Aims: To evaluate the prescribing of smoking cessation therapies (SCT) among hospital clinicians and identify factors that may hinder delivery of effective interventions.

Methods: A retrospective analysis of medical records of patients admitted to the Royal Hobart Hospital with an acute exacerbation of COPD was performed.

An isolate of Haemophilus haemolyticus produces a bacteriocin-like substance that inhibits the growth of nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae.

Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) frequently colonises the upper respiratory tract and is an important cause of respiratory infections. Resistance to antibiotics is an emerging trend in NTHi and alternative prevention or treatment strategies are required. Haemophilus haemolyticus is a common commensal occupying the same niche as NTHi and, if able to produce substances that inhibit NTHi growth, may have a role as a probiotic.

Home mechanical ventilation in Australia and New Zealand.

This study aims to describe the pattern of home mechanical ventilation (HMV) usage in Australia and New Zealand. 34 centres providing HMV in the region were identified and asked to complete a questionnaire regarding centre demographics, patient diagnoses, HMV equipment and settings, staffing levels and methods employed to implement and follow-up therapy. 28 (82%) centres responded, providing data on 2,725 patients.