Club ProFRESHional

3D printed orthoses are custom-made braces and supports designed to stabilize joints and promote healing. By using 3D scanning and additive manufacturing, these devices can be perfectly contoured to a patient's body, offering superior comfort and effectiveness compared to standard off-the-shelf options.

The traditional method of making orthoses involves plaster casting, which is messy and time-consuming. With 3D printing, a clinician simply scans the affected limb, and a digital model is created. This allows for the design of "lattice" structures that are incredibly strong yet lightweight and breathable, preventing the skin irritation and bulkiness associated with traditional plastic or plaster braces.

One of the major advantages of 3D printing is the ability to vary the stiffness of the material within a single device. For example, a wrist brace can be designed to be rigid around the joint for stability but more flexible at the edges to allow for better range…

A nasogastric tube is a thin, flexible tube passed through the nose into the stomach for feeding or medication administration. It is a common procedure in hospitals for patients who cannot swallow safely. Ensuring the correct placement of the tube is essential for preventing serious complications like lung aspiration.

Standard protocols for insertion include measuring the tube length and checking the acidity of the stomach contents after placement. Continuous monitoring of the tube's position and the condition of the skin around the nose is necessary for patient comfort. Clear communication with the patient helps to reduce their anxiety.

The use of these tubes is often temporary, but for some patients with chronic conditions, it may be a long-term necessity. Nurses and caregivers must be trained in how to flush the tube to prevent blockages and how to identify the signs of a dislodged tube immediately.

X-rays remain the most reliable…