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Introduction:The preparedness levels of front-line clinicians including physicians, nurses, emergency medical responders (EMRs), and other medical staff working in clinics, offices and ambulatory care centers must be assessed, so these personnel are able to deal with communicable and potentially lethal diseases, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). In order to determine the knowledge of these clinicians, a survey of their understanding of SARS and their use of educational resources was administered.Methods:A questionnaire was distributed to physicians, nurses, and EMRs attending conferences on SARS in the summer of 2003. Questions related to information sources, knowledge of SARS, and plans implemented in their workplace to deal with it. Statistical analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (10.1 Program, SPSS Inc., Chicago, Illinois).Results:A total of 201 community healthcare providers (HCPs) participated in the study. A total of 51% of the participants correctly identified the incubation period of SARS; 48% correctly identified the symptoms of SARS; and 60% knew the recommended infection control precautions to take for families. There was little difference in knowledge among the physicians, nurses, and EMRs evaluated. Media outlets such as newspapers, journals, television, and radio were reported as the main sources of information on SARS. However, there appears to be a growing use of the Internet, which correlated best with the correct answers on symptoms of SARS. Fewer than one-third of respondents were aware of a protocol for SARS in their workplace. A total of 60% reported that N-95 masks were available in their workplace.Conclusion:These findings suggest the need for more effective means of education and training for front-line clinicians, as well as the institution of policies and procedures in medical offices, clinics, and emergency services in the community.

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Objective The main purpose of this study was to describe the use and benefits of 3-dimensional (3D) computer-assisted surgical planning (CASP) and printing in a complex articular fracture repair in a dog. Study Design Case report. Animals Client-owned dog. Results One dog with a closed, severely comminuted, distal femoral supracondylar and bicondylar fracture underwent a preoperative computed tomography scan. Three-dimensional CASP was performed using computer-aided design software. Three-dimensional CASP allowed for visualization of the fracture fragments and virtual surgery, including reduction of the fragments and implant placement. A 3D model of the affected femur was printed and a bone plate was pre-contoured to the model. Intraoperative fracture reduction and stabilization were performed without complications. Postoperative radiographs revealed successful execution of the planned procedure. Subsequent radiographs and clinical examination indicated that bone healing was achieved with return to normal function of the limb. Three-dimensional CASP and the printed 3D model allowed for improved understanding of the anatomical relationship between fracture fragments, preoperative implant selection and contouring, and the ability to practice fracture reduction and implant placement preoperatively. The model was also used for client education, and to teach students and residents. Conclusion Three-dimensional CASP and printed models are valuable tools in the preoperative planning of complex fracture repairs, educating clients and teaching students and residents.