Training Papers

Researchers are hunting for innovative ways to fight “superbugs.” A recent study finds that blue light can weaken these pathogens making them more susceptible to destruction by standard antiseptics. Antibiotic resistance is on the rise, globally; this means that antibiotics that once treated certain infections no longer have any effect. Read more here

The survey was conducted to assess clinical perceptions of the incidence and safety risks posed by IV dislodgements. Author Nancy Moureau, PhD, RN, CRNI, CPUI, VA-BC, is an internationally recognized expert and consultant in vascular access and the CEO of PICC Excellence. Among the 1,561 clinicians surveyed across the United States, 68 percent reported that accidental dislodgement occurred

The Megavac Catheter is a procedure that removes blood clots simply and safely. Watch how this animation to see how the technology works. View the video via Facebook here, or Youtube here.

A team of physicists has demonstrated the potential, for oncology, of an imaging technique based only on the physical properties of tumors. It can differentiate populations of malignant cells and monitor how effective an anticancer treatment is. These results should help in the design of new therapeutic molecules and in the personalisation of treatments. Read

A ground-breaking new study has succeeded in compiling an atlas of genetic factors associated with estimated bone mineral density (BMD), one of the most clinically relevant factors in diagnosing osteoporosis. The paper identifies 518 genome-wide loci, of which 301 are newly discovered, that explain 20 percent of the genetic variance associated with osteoporosis. Read more

Voyager Point local and cancer survivor Nikhil Autar has become a step closer in realising his dream of launching his healthcare solutions following his successful application for a Redkite and Coles Dare to Dream Scholarship. The 25-year-old was one of 24 young adults around the country to receive a $2000 scholarship which Nikhil will put

The purpose of this study is to assess the cost-effectiveness of peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) placements using an ultrasound and electrocardiogram-guided system versus external measurements and confirmatory chest X-rays (CXRs). Read more here

A new device developed by Stanford University researchers could make it easier for doctors to monitor the success of blood vessel surgery. The sensor, detailed in a paper published Jan. 8 in Nature Biomedical Engineering, monitors the flow of blood through an artery. It is biodegradable, battery-free and wireless, so it is compact and doesn’t need

Vascular access devices are commonly inserted devices that facilitate the administration of fluids and drugs, as well as blood sampling. Despite their common use in clinical settings, these devices are prone to occlusion and failure, requiring replacement and exposing the patient to ongoing discomfort/pain, local vessel inflammation and risk of infection. A range of insertion

A novel Australian invention that allows neurosurgeons to illuminate parts of the brain and avoid devastating complications during a biopsy has been trialled in humans for the first time. A brain biopsy is a delicate procedure often used to diagnose or detect abnormalities, such as a suspected tumour. It involves inserting a needle into the brain and taking small samples of tissue for further