This study used a novel delayed nonmatching-to-position task to compare visuospatial learning and memory in young and aged beagle dogs (Canis familiaris). The task used 3, rather than 2, spatial locations, which markedly increased difficulty. There were striking age differences in acquisition. Most of the aged canines did not learn the task, and those that did showed impaired learning when compared with the young canines. The aged canines also showed reduced maximal working memory capacity compared with the young canines. Analysis of the response patterns of individual canines indicated that the deficits were related to the use of ineffective strategies and inflexibility in strategy modification.

Objective: Evaluate clinician knowledge and perceptions to ensure the newly implemented Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) policies and guidelines are understood correctly to help facilitate the best possible experience for patients and their families. Methods: One hundred and twenty-five clinicians completed a survey, developed for this study, to determine their perceptions and knowledge base related to MAID. Results: The average grade on the knowledge-based portion of the survey was 69%. On average, respondents displayed a good understanding (84%) of the legislated eligibility criteria while room for improvement was noted for facility specific policy questions (65%) and general principle questions (71%). Analysis of perception-based questions indicated most respondents were in support of MAID, however, they expressed mixed feelings towards the ease of having MAID related conversations. Respondents expressed mixed opinions in relation to whether the facility was providing adequate training to staff. Sixty-four percent of respondents expressed interest in receiving further training relating to MAID. Conclusions: Education for healthcare providers to ensure they understand the relevant hospital policy and guidelines is critical to improve compliance with the implementation of MAID. It is important to continue to understand and support the perceptions of clinicians to ensure that MAID is administered correctly and as effectively as possible.

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Background: The COVID-19 outbreak has highlighted the role of hospital-acquired infections in spreading epidemics. Adequately cleaning surfaces in patient rooms is an essential part of this fight to reduce the spread. Traditional audits, however, are insufficient. This study assesses surface cleaning practices using ultravoilet (UV) marker technology and the extent to which this technology can help improve cleaning audits and practices. Methods: One hundred and forty-four audits (1,235 surfaces) were retrieved. UV-marker cleaning audits conducted at a major teaching hospital in 2018 after implementing a new cleaning protocol. In addition, semistructured interviews were conducted with cleaning staff and supervisors. Results: On average, 63% of surfaces were appropriately cleaned. Toilet handles (80%) and toilet seats underside (83%) scored highest while main room sink fixtures (54%), light switch (55%), and bedrails (56%) scored lowest. Training, staffing and time constraints may play a role in low cleaning rates. Discussion: The high-touch patient surfaces in the bedroom remain neglected and a potential source of infections. UV marker audits provided an objective measure of cleaning practices that managers and staff were unaware of. Conclusions: UV-markers audits can play a key role in revealing deficiencies in cleaning practices and help in raising awareness of these deficiencies and improving cleaning practices.