Cost-effectiveness of Acupuncture for Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain.

Cost-effectiveness is a major criterion underpinning decisions in mainstream health care. Acupuncture is increasingly used in patients with chronic lower back pain (LBP), but there is a lack of evidence on cost-effectiveness. The objective of this study was to assess the cost-effectiveness of acupuncture in alleviating chronic LBP either alone or in conjunction with standard care compared with patients receiving routine care, and/or sham.

Health-related quality of life and physical recovery after a critical illness: a multi-centre randomised controlled trial of a home-based physical rehabilitation program.

Introduction: Significant physical sequelae exist for some survivors of a critical illness. There are, however, few studies that have examined specific interventions to improve their recovery, and none have tested a home-based physical rehabilitation program incorporating trainer visits to participants' homes. This study was designed to test the effect of an individualised eight-week home-based physical rehabilitation program on recovery.

Economic impact of primary open-angle glaucoma in Australia.

Background: Glaucoma is the World's leading cause of irreversible blindness, and poses serious public health and economic concerns.

Design:   Review.

Samples: Published randomized trials and population-based studies since 1985.

Coronary Health Improvement Project (CHIP) is associated with improved nutrient intake and decreased depression.

Objective: We evaluated the efficacy of the Coronary Health Improvement Project (CHIP) at lowering depression by modifying selected daily nutrients from food.

Methods: A randomized controlled trial was used, with 348 participants 24 to 81 y of age from metropolitan Rockford, Illinois. Participants were assessed at baseline and at 6 wk and 6 mo of follow-up.

An introduction to stomas: reasons for their formation.

The word 'stoma' comes from the Greek word meaning 'mouth' or 'opening'. Three types of stoma are discussed in this article: colostomy, ileostomy and ileal conduit. All are involved in the elimination of either faeces or urine.

How increased nurse prescribing can improve stoma care practice.

Stoma care nurse specialists have a comprehensive knowledge of the range and use of stoma-related products, yet few are actually nurse prescribers. This article looks at why stoma care nurse specialists should consider becoming nurse prescribers and also examines ways to assist prescribing decisions.