Individuals who self-harm have increased suicide rates. Brief interventions are associated with reduced repeated suicide attempts. However, very few previous studies investigated the acceptability of brief interventions before implementing new trials.

We aimed to explore the perceptions of individuals who self-harm toward a brief intervention, the Chinese version of the volitional help sheet (VHS-C), which encourages people to link a critical situation with an appropriate response.

Fourteen participants who presented to hospitals with self-harm were interviewed about their perspectives regarding the acceptability of the paper- and web-based VHS-C. Data were analysed with the framework method.

The participants could understand the intended goal of the VHS-C by reading the written instructions, but indicated that having verbal instructions would also help. They shared the reasons why they felt the VHS-C was helpful (e.g. relatable contents, useful coping strategies and appropriate instructions that made them feel understood) or unhelpful (e.g., being not specific enough, not useful during the crisis and triggering negative emotional responses). Some indicated that the VHS-C might not be applicable to people experiencing ongoing distress in emergency departments. Most participants preferred the web-based to the paper-based VHS-C, and suggested that the format and frequency of follow-up reminders could leave the patient to decide.

The contents of the VHS-C were acceptable for people who presented to hospitals with self-harm. The VHS-C may be more helpful before individuals encounter suicidal thoughts than when they have an ongoing crisis.

Presently used evaluation techniques rely on 3 traditional dimensions: reports from observers, registration system data, and observational cameras. Some of these techniques are observer-dependent and are not reproducible for a second review. This proof-of-concept study aimed to test the feasibility of extending evaluation to a fourth dimension, the patient’s perspective.

Footage was obtained during a large, full-scale hospital trauma drill. Two mock victims were equipped with point-of-view cameras filming from the patient’s head. Based on the Major Incident Hospital’s first experience during the drill, a protocol was developed for a prospective, standardized method to evaluate a hospital’s major incident response from the patient’s perspective. The protocol was then tested in a second drill for its feasibility.

New insights were gained after review of the footage. The traditional observer missed some of the evaluation points, which were seen on the point-of-view cameras. The information gained from the patient’s perspective proved to be implementable into the designed protocol.

Use of point-of-view camera recordings from a mock patient’s perspective is a valuable addition to traditional evaluation of trauma drills and trauma care. Protocols should be designed to optimize and objectify judgement of such footage. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2017;11:594–599)

The dosimetric benefits of Deep Inspiration Breath Hold (DIBH) in reducing cardiac dose are well documented, however reports on the patient’s personal experience with this technique are limited. The purpose of this research is to investigate DIBH from the patient’s perspective and to provide recommendations to further improve the patient experience.

A questionnaire was used to record the patient’s comprehension of DIBH instructions and preparation for treatment. Levels of comfort, confidence and technical challenge were also recorded and an open-format question allowed patients to provide suggestions to improve the DIBH experience.

The majority of patients do not find it difficult to hold their breath at the correct level during DIBH and confidence levels regarding ability to follow instructions are good. Comprehension of instructions, preparation to perform DIBH and treatment position comfort levels were universally graded positively.

The majority of patients reported a strong level of comprehension and preparation that allows them to confidently perform DIBH as planned. Establishment of a dedicated treatment team, consistent patient instructions, regular feedback and an opportunity to rehearse DIBH can help increase patient confidence and reduce anxiety.

The literature available on the format of the feedback session following assessment of memory impairment is minimal. This study explored how this information should be presented from the perspective of patients and their families.

Thirty-two semi-structured interviews were conducted with memory clinic patients and their carer at the clinic visit that followed the feedback session, to ask: what they recalled, what they found helpful, and what they thought was the best way to disclose a diagnosis of dementia. A second interview was conducted with 14 patient/carer dyads at their next appointment.

Recall of information from the feedback session was variable. Most respondents (76% of patients; 66% of carers) thought that a direct approach was best when informing the patient of a dementia diagnosis, and that both written information and compassion demonstrated by the doctor were helpful. Opinions on whether all the information should be given at once or in stages were divided.

The current format of the feedback session needs revision to improve recall. Patients and their families want a direct approach to be used by a supportive and professional doctor with an opportunity to ask questions. They want the support of a family member or friend when they are told of their diagnosis and they would like a written summary to refer to afterwards.