A preterm baby is defined as any newborn born before the 37th week of pregnancy. Depending on the duration of pregnancy, preterm babies can be classified into one of three categories: very extreme prematurity - babies born before 28 weeks gestation, extreme prematurity -...
Humanising medicine is an approach that puts the patient at the centre of the treatment process, taking into account not only their physical needs, but also their emotional, social and spiritual aspects. The humanisation of medicine is about making each patient feel that they are being treated with...
What is surgery? Surgery is the branch of medicine that deals with the treatment of disease and injury through surgical action on the patient's body. It is a broad and complex field that encompasses a variety of procedures, from simple outpatient procedures to complex...
What is an intensive care unit (ICU)? An intensive care unit (ICU) is a specialised unit in a hospital designed to care for patients in critical condition. Patients in the ICU require intensive monitoring and advanced...
When does pain become chronic? Chronic pain is otherwise known as long-lasting, persistent pain that lasts longer than three months or goes beyond the typical healing period. It can have a variety of causes, including chronic diseases, trauma and neurological disorders. It differs from pain ...
Trauma has many faces Events are defined as traumatic when they cause strong feelings of fear, helplessness or terror and lead to long-term health problems, both mental and physical. The most common events are accidents, disasters,...
Mental health is integral to overall health and well-being. Modern life with its fast pace and numerous challenges often leads to stress, anxiety and other mental health problems. World Mental Health Day, celebrated on 10...
Volunteers in healthcare Medical volunteers are individuals who volunteer their time and energy to support patients, medical staff and families in healthcare settings. They are not employed on a full-time basis and are not paid for their...
What are anxiety disorders? Anxiety disorders are a group of psychiatric disorders characterised by excessive, unreasonable fear and anxiety that significantly affect the daily functioning of the person affected. They can take many forms and involve...
Bone marrow donation is one of the most important acts of altruism that can save the lives of people with cancer and other serious blood conditions. Marrow donors are often the only hope for patients suffering from leukaemia, lymphoma or anaemia....
The importance of prenatal care Prenatal care is the medical process and support that pregnant women receive to monitor and promote the health of both the mother and the developing foetus. It starts from the first weeks of pregnancy and includes...
What is physiotherapy? Physiotherapy is the branch of medicine concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of movement disorders and body functions. It is used to restore, improve and maintain maximum physical fitness in patients, regardless of their...
Remote health Telemedicine enables patients to contact doctors without having to be physically present in a medical facility. With video calls, patients can have consultations in the comfort of their own home. Telemedicine increases the availability of care...
Social workers play a key role in the humanisation of medical care, providing support to patients and their families at difficult times. Their tasks cover a wide range of activities that focus on improving patients' quality of life and integrating...
Physical contact A look at the importance of physical touch in the doctor-patient relationship opens up a number of aspects that are relevant to both patients and healthcare staff. Physical contact in the doctor-patient relationship is crucial for building trust and...