New Discharge Summary Implementation Toolkit launched

This toolkit has been produced to help trusts implement the nationally-agreed 24 hour discharge summary, which will enable a GP, patient or carer to continue care effectively following a stay in hospital

Revolution in hip fracture care shows the way in improving treatment of older people

The NHFD 2011 National Report shows that national clinical audit, supportive networks and extra payments for hospitals have delivered high quality and continuing improvements in hip fracture care, and that there have been consistent improvements in compliance with the six clinical standards measured. Despite this, significant variation persists across the country.

Kidney failure patients should receive balanced information on dialysis options

NICE in its new guideline on peritoneal dialysis says that patients with kidney failure should be given balanced advice so that they can make informed decisions about their choice of dialysis treatment.

NICE approves new treatment for heart attacks

NICE has approved the use of bivaliraduin, in combination with aspirin and clopidogrel, for the treatment of adults who have had a type of myocardial infarction called a ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction or 'STEMI' who are undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention.

New COPD quality standard published

NICE quality standard defines clinical best practice for specific topic areas. This standard for COPD includes 13 statements that aim to define high quality care for patients.

New quality standards for dermatology

The standards are intended for use in any service that provides care for people with skin conditions. They bring together best practice and existing guidance, and aim to meet the needs of commissioners.

RCN guidance on theatre transfers for children

This guidance aims to support health care staff to develop locally agreed guidelines for the assessment and management of children and young people being transferred between hospital departments, ensuring they are safely transferred to and from theatre.

The National Hip Fracture Database National Report 2011

Contains analysis of over 53,000 cases submitted to the National Hip Fracture Database from 176 hospitals during 2010/2011. See pages 64-66, to see some case studies of how hospitals have used audit to improve fracture care.