Postural assessment is a b asic element of physiotherapy and, increasingly, nursing diagnostics, as the reliability of subsequent preventive decisions depends on it. Classical methods based on visual inspection are limited by examiner subjectivity and poor reproducibility. This paper describes the principles of the RTMPose (Real-Time Multi-person Pose Estimation) model, its potential applications in the quantitative assessment of postural asymmetry, and, importantly, the limitations of the method. The critical analysis is illustrated by a single case of a school-aged child examined in three projections. Particular attention is paid to the potential role of the tool in school-based postural screening performed by nurses, and to the conditions for safe and lawful implementation, including the protection of the pupil’s personal data and image.
Blood donation is a cornerstone of modern healthcare, as despite scientific advances, no effective substitute for human blood has yet been developed. The aim of this study was to compare blood donation systems operating in Poland, Germany, France, the UK, China, and the US. The analysis focused on the organisation and financing of these systems, types of donations, permissible donation frequencies, donor benefits, and approaches to donor compensation. The findings indicate that European countries primarily rely on voluntary non-remunerated blood donation, whereas financial compensation for plasma donation is widely practiced in the US. China has developed a system based on centralised supervision and extensive digitalisation. Despite organisational differences, all analysed countries strive to ensure the safety of both donors and recipients while maintaining an adequate and stable blood supply. However, the growing demand for plasma has intensified discussions regarding the future of European blood donation models and their long-term sustainability.
Adherence refers to the extent to which patients ’ behaviours correspond with agreed treatment recommendations. It is an important element of effective treatment in primary healthcare and other medical settings. High adherence is associated with better health outcomes, fewer complications, and lower healthcare costs. Adherence can be influenced by numerous factors. Some are related to legal responsibilities, as doctors, nurses, midwives, physiotherapists, and pharmacists must provide patients with information and health education. Other factors include the quality of communication and the organization of therapy. Barriers to adherence can be unintentional or intentional. Unintentional barriers include cognitive problems, complex medication schedules, and physical difficulties. Intentional barriers include lack of trust in treatment, fear of side effects, and the perception that treatment is unnecessary due to absence of symptoms. System-related issues such as high medication costs, limited time during visits, low health literacy, and misinformation on social media also affect adherence. Improving communication, patient education, simpler treatment plans, digital tools, and teamwork can significantly improve adherence and treatment outcomes.
Bipolar affective disorder (BD) is a chronic psychiatric condition characterized by recurrent episodes of depression, mania, or hypomania. Its course significantly reduces quality of life and increases suicide risk. The coexistence of obsessive-compulsive disorder exacerbates anxiety symptoms and complicates both diagnosis and treatment. The aim of this study was to present a case of a female patient hospitalized due to BD with comorbid obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and to develop a nursing care plan based on the International Classification for Nursing Practice (ICNP). The research material included medical records and nursing observations. The 48-year-old patient demonstrated severe depressive and compulsive symptoms, including avoidance of meals and compulsive handwashing, which resulted in self-care deficits and weight loss. The individualized care plan focused on safety monitoring, emotional support, psychoeducation, sleep hygiene, and activation. Hospitalization led to mood improvement, anxiety reduction, and greater patient engagement in therapy. This case highlights the crucial role of psychiatric nurses in interdisciplinary care.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections and a major cause of cervical, anogenital, and oropharyngeal cancers. Prophylactic HPV vaccination is a key element of primary prevention, with nurses playing an important role in vaccine delivery and health education. This narrative review aims to summarise current evidence on HPV infection and vaccination, with particular emphasis on nursing practice. A narrative review of literature from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (1999-2025) was conducted. Additionally, official epidemiological data from national and international public health institutions were analysed. Evidence from countries with established vaccination programmes shows a significant reduction in HPV-related diseases. In Poland, vaccination coverage remains insufficient despite the introduction of a national programme. Strengthening the educational and preventive role of nurses is essential to improve vaccination uptake and reduce the burden of HPV-related cancers.
Ankylosing spondylitis (Bechterew’s disease) is a difficult-to-diagnose chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints. Advanced disease requires holistic care to reduce pain and the patient’s other symptoms. The aim of the study was to assess the needs of a patient diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis and her self-care capacity based on Dorothy Orem’s theory. The research was conducted using the case study method. The article presents the patient’s health problems and develops a nursing care plan using the ICNP terminology. The patient experienced self-care deficits, chronic pain, depressed mood, and constipation. An appropriately designed nursing care plan helped to reduce some of the patient’s problems, which led to a better quality of life.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has been increasingly associated with poor oral health, including periodontal disease, tooth loss, and oral dysbiosis. This review summarizes current evidence linking oral health and AD, with an emphasis on oral pathogens, systemic inflammation, and cognitive decline. A literature review conducted up to June 30, 2025, identified 20 eligible studies. Individuals with AD consistently showed oral dysbiosis, characterized by increased levels of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Tannerella forsythia, and decreased levels of commensals such as Streptococcus and Rothia. Periodontitis and tooth loss were independently associated with greater AD risk. A large cohort study of over 32.6 million individuals reported more than a twofold increased AD risk among those with poor oral health. These findings support the potential role of oral hygiene as a modifiable and cost-effective preventive strategy against AD.
Abstract Cigarettes and alcohol are the most popular stimulants. In Poland, a large proportion of the population habitually smokes tobacco products. The report Health Behaviors of Pregnant Women shows that only one out of ten women quit smoking in order to expand their family. Every year in Poland, over 100,000 children are born exposed to tobacco smoke in their prenatal development. In 2021, the average per capita consumption of pure alcohol in Poland was nearly 10 liters. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder and the full syndrome occur in 20 out of 1000 and 4 out of 1000 newborns, respectively. Pregnant women who smoke and drink alcohol are at greater risk of pregnancy-related pathologies and intrauterine growth retardation. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder is incurable, but can be prevented by abstaining from alcohol throughout pregnancy. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends raising awareness of the harmful effects of smoking and taking action to support women in quitting the habit.
Myocardial infarction (MI) is extremely rare during pregnancy and postpartum period; it is even less common in clinical practice during labor. Currently, there are no clear guidelines for the management of such complicated clinical cases. In this paper, a case of a 38-year-old multiparous woman with anterior wall ST elevation MI in the first stage of labor was presented. The patient underwent an emergency caesarean section without complications, delivering a full-term live son. The patient was transferred to catheterization laboratory for coronary angiography with primary coronary intervention (PCI) of the left anterior descending artery. During 18 months of follow-up, the mother had no recurrence of stenocardial symptoms, complications of antiplatelet therapy, or signs of worsening heart failure. The approach adopted by the authors of this report seems to be an effective and completely safe method of management in such complicated clinical scenarios.
Theoretical grounds of a workshop program are based on a review of the most important principles of being in a relationship as well as on referring to specific contexts of exercises, based on theoretical concepts of attentiveness, transference and countertransference, resonance, the role and tasks of a support person, elements of field theory, and self-disclosure in contact with the patient. All of these serve to deepen the connection with the patient, and enhance one’s skills and competencies, including self-awareness in a relationship. For the purpose of a workshop for medical students, this knowledge and its use in clinical practice increase the chances of counteracting burnout and excessive emotional costs connected with difficult situations experienced in various relationally challenging situations.
