Thriving alongside cystic fibrosis: Developing a grounded theory of empowerment in children and young people with cystic fibrosis during key life transitions.

BACKGROUND: Although the importance of patient empowerment is increasingly recognized, little is known about empowerment in children and young people (CYP) with long-term conditions. Empowerment may be particularly important in CYP with cystic fibrosis (CF) due to high treatment burden and limited opportunities for peer support. METHODS: A Grounded Theory method was employed to develop a preliminary theory of empowerment in CYP with CF. Seven CYP with CF, five parents and four professionals were interviewed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The emerging model suggests that 'thriving alongside CF' may be supported by interactions between 'having a team' and 'taking charge and having a voice', leading to 'being able to just be a child', that 'concealing self' may get in the way of 'thriving alongside CF' and that these processes occur within wider medical and developmental contexts. Study limitations, clinical and research implications are discussed.

Inferior Vena Cava Filters in Pregnancy: A Systematic Review.

During pregnancy, patients have an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). This is an important cause of maternal mortality. Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters can be used to prevent pulmonary embolism in complicated cases of VTE during pregnancy. The present systematic review includes all patients reported in the literature who had an IVC filter placed during pregnancy. The indications for IVC filters are discussed, along with practical considerations for placement during pregnancy, filter effectiveness, and maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity. IVC filters can be used safely when appropriate during pregnancy, with complication rates similar to those in nonpregnant patients.