DR. ANDREW L. ARCHER, D.O.

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This study looked at whether cord blood can help patients with blood cancers who need transplants but struggle to find suitable donors, especially those of non-European ancestry. Researchers found that nearly all patients in one group (96% or 215 out of 224) could find a matching double unit of cord blood, which is important because these patients often face significant barriers in accessing transplants. The findings show that cord blood could help reduce disparities in donor availability and improve urgent transplant options for diverse patient populations. Who this helps: This benefits patients with blood cancers, particularly those from non-European backgrounds who need transplants.

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This study looked at how patients with severe fibrosis (specifically F3 fibrosis) progress to serious liver issues compared to those with more advanced fibrosis (F4 fibrosis) due to metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Researchers found that 16% of patients with F3 fibrosis developed varices, while rates of liver cancer in these patients ranged from 37% to 75%. This matters because it shows that a significant number of patients with F3 fibrosis are at risk of worsening liver disease, highlighting the need for better monitoring and management strategies. Who this helps: This information is beneficial for doctors and patients with early-stage liver disease to identify those at higher risk of complications.

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This study looked at how a combination of adapted physical activity and art therapy could help improve the quality of life for people with Myasthenia Gravis, a rare condition that causes muscle weakness. Researchers will enroll 102 patients to take part in two phases of treatment: one with just physical activity and another with both physical activity and art therapy, measuring various factors like fatigue and emotional wellbeing over several months. If successful, this approach could lead to better care strategies that address both physical and emotional health for patients with this condition. Who this helps: This helps patients with Myasthenia Gravis.

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This study looked at violence against emergency department staff and tested a new approach to reduce such incidents and improve staff perceptions of safety. The intervention included changes to the environment, a new response guide for handling aggressive behavior, and a better system for reporting incidents. Although there were more reports of violence, the overall number of incidents remained the same, and workers felt less safe over time. Who this helps: This research is important for emergency department staff and healthcare administrators aiming to create safer work environments.

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This study looked at how a specific protein, called estrogen receptor beta, affects the immune environment around colon tumors in mice. The researchers found that mice lacking this protein had more macrophages (a type of immune cell) but fewer T cells and natural killer cells in their tumors, which suggests that this protein generally supports a healthier immune response against tumors. Importantly, higher levels of this protein in human colorectal tumors were linked to better survival rates, indicating its potential role in improving cancer treatment. Who this helps: This information helps patients with colorectal cancer and their doctors by highlighting potential new targets for treatment.

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This study looked at how patients felt about reducing their use of opioids before having total hip or knee surgery, with the help of pharmacists. It found that 70% of the patients were able to cut their opioid use by at least half, with knowing their surgery date motivating them to taper their medication. Understanding these patient experiences is important because it shows that pharmacists can help change attitudes and improve pain management, making surgeries safer and recovery smoother. Who this helps: This helps patients preparing for surgery and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the stress and challenges experienced by people who care for patients with Myasthenia gravis (MG), a neuromuscular disorder. Among 69 caregivers surveyed, 40.6% reported no burden, while 47.8% felt a mild-to-moderate burden, and 2.9% reported severe burden. Caregivers highlighted feelings of losing control over their lives, financial stress, and difficulties in relationships, showing the need for support to improve their quality of life. Who this helps: This findings benefit caregivers of MG patients, as well as healthcare providers looking to support them.

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The workshop focused on improving support for caregivers of patients undergoing hematopoietic cell transplants, a critical treatment for certain blood disorders. Participants identified important questions to guide research in five key areas, including raising awareness about caregiver needs and creating more effective support models. Addressing these issues can lead to better care for patients and make treatment more accessible. Who this helps: This helps patients and their caregivers.

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This study looked at how women in underserved communities in New York City were getting maternal healthcare, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers found that of 3,181 women studied, over 51% received inadequate prenatal care, and nearly 40% did not get postpartum care. Specific groups, like younger women and those from racial minorities, were particularly affected. This matters because it highlights the gaps in care for marginalized communities, emphasizing the need for policies that ensure all women receive fair and quality maternal healthcare. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially women of color and those in low-income situations, by bringing attention to their healthcare needs.

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This study looked at how nasogastric (NG) tubes are removed and how well patients after neurosurgery are able to meet their nutritional needs without them. Researchers found that patients who continued receiving feeding through the NG tube until they were able to eat enough on their own were more likely to meet their nutritional goals. Specifically, none of the patients who had their NG tube removed too soon achieved these targets. This matters because the development of a clear "NG Transition Feeding Protocol" can help medical teams make better decisions about when to remove NG tubes, ensuring patients maintain their nutritional health during recovery. Who this helps: This helps neurosurgical patients and the healthcare teams caring for them.

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This study examined whether data from electronic medical records (EMRs) can accurately measure how well primary care behavioral health services are implemented. Researchers compared the information recorded in EMRs with data collected by an observer over eight months and found a strong correlation, with values ranging from 0.46 to 0.97. This is important because it shows that EMR data can be a reliable tool for tracking the effectiveness of behavioral health care in primary care settings. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and health care providers working in primary care behavioral health.

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This study looked at how many volunteer donors are available for stem cell transplants, focusing on 455 patients, mostly with acute leukemia. It found that non-European patients often have fewer available donors; for example, only 33% of donors were available for African patients, compared to better odds for Europeans. This is important because it shows that some patient groups face significant barriers in finding matching donors, which can delay or complicate their treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients needing transplants, especially those from non-European backgrounds.

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This study looked at how activating estrogen receptors affects liver diseases caused by high-fat diets in mice. The researchers found that when these receptors were activated, it improved liver function and reduced fat buildup in the liver, particularly by altering the way a key gene, TEAD1, works. This matters because it suggests a new treatment approach for patients with fatty liver disease, showing that targeting TEAD1 can help reduce liver fat. Who this helps: Patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD).

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This study examined whether the merging of two trauma centers in rural Appalachia affected the rate of futile trauma transfers (FTTs) — cases where patients were transferred but received no major treatment and either died or were sent to hospice shortly after. Over five years, out of 3,369 transferred patients, 34 were identified as having had a futile transfer, with 12 occurring before the merger and 22 after. The rate of FTTs remained stable after the consolidation at 1.1%, which is similar to the national average of 1.5%, showing that the change in trauma center structure did not significantly impact transfer outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits patients and healthcare providers in rural areas.

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This study looked at what happened when two rural trauma centers combined into one and how it affected adult trauma patients over five years. It found that after the consolidation, the number of trauma cases increased by 33% along with a 9% rise in patients being transferred from other facilities. The patients treated after the merger were older and had more serious injuries, but importantly, the most severely injured patients who needed surgery and ICU care had lower death rates. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from severe injuries, as well as the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at a specific protein called estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) and its role in various types of cancers. Researchers found that the presence of ERβ in tumors could help understand how cancers like lymphoma and certain reproductive cancers behave, although more research is needed because results have been inconsistent. This matters because understanding ERβ can lead to better cancer treatments and management strategies. Who this helps: Patients with specific types of cancers and their doctors.

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This study looked at patients who were transferred to a rural trauma center from 2017 to 2022 to see how many were classified as "secondary overtriage." Out of 3,291 transferred patients, 1,407 (43%) were considered secondary overtriage because they had less severe injuries and didn't need surgery, with an average hospital stay that was shorter than those who weren’t overtriaged. This is important because finding ways to reduce unnecessary transfers can make better use of healthcare resources and ensure that patients with more serious injuries receive the care they need. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers by improving trauma care efficiency.

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This study looked at how a training program on neuromuscular training (NMT) influenced high school sports coaches' knowledge and use of injury prevention techniques to reduce ACL injuries. Before the training, only 4.4% of coaches included NMT in their practice sessions, but afterward, 92.7% intended to use it, and 88.9% actually did three months later. This matters because improving coaches' knowledge and practices can help reduce serious injuries in young athletes. Who this helps: This benefits high school athletes and their coaches.

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This study looked at whether funeral home listings and newspaper obituaries could help identify unexpected increases in deaths in Washington County, Tennessee, before official death records were available. The researchers found that using these sources could have revealed nearly 100 extra deaths related to COVID-19 even before the first reported COVID death, and they noted that official data only accounted for half of the excess deaths in 2020. This means that tracking funeral and obituary information could be a useful tool for health officials to detect spikes in deaths sooner, allowing them to respond more quickly. Who this helps: This helps public health officials and communities respond more effectively to health crises.

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This study looked at how immune cells are distributed in the colons of male and female mice with colitis, an inflammatory gut condition. Researchers found that during colitis, the distal part of the colon was most affected, especially in male mice, who had more B cells and fewer protective macrophages. Female mice displayed more helper T cells and neutrophils and an increase in protective macrophages in the middle part of the colon. Understanding these differences is important for developing targeted treatments for inflammatory bowel diseases. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on treatments for inflammatory bowel disease in both men and women.

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Researchers in France studied how adults with generalized myasthenia gravis (MG) feel about living with their condition and what improvements they hope for in their treatments. They collected responses from 246 patients and found that many wanted to enjoy physical activities, be less tired, and improve their mobility. Additionally, patients expressed a desire for treatments that have fewer side effects and require less frequent dosages. Who this helps: This helps patients with MG and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the recovery times and discharge procedures for patients who underwent total knee replacement surgeries, comparing traditional manual techniques to newer robotic-assisted methods. The researchers analyzed data from over 10,000 patients and found that those who had robotic-assisted surgeries stayed in the hospital for an average of 1.68 days, while manual surgery patients stayed for about 1.86 days. Additionally, nearly 48% of robotic-assisted patients were discharged within a day compared to about 39% of manual surgery patients, highlighting that robotic assistance can lead to quicker recoveries and better chances of going directly home after surgery. Who this helps: Patients undergoing knee surgery benefit the most from these findings.

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This study looked at how often emergency department (ED) staff experience violence and aggression from patients or visitors. Out of 140 ED workers, 65 took part in the survey, and all nurses and providers reported being verbally abused. Most nurses (87.5%) faced physical violence, which was higher than the levels reported by providers (36.8%) and technicians (55%), highlighting a scary work environment for these healthcare workers. Who this helps: This research helps nurses and emergency department staff by identifying the need for better strategies to protect them from violence.

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This study looked at how certain chemicals found in vaping products affect human lung cells. Researchers tested a terpene called limonene and a diluent called triethyl citrate in different mixtures. They found that limonene was more harmful to the cells than triethyl citrate, and when mixed in certain ratios, the chemicals interacted in ways that lessened their toxicity. This research is important because it helps us understand the potential dangers of combining different ingredients in vaping products. Who this helps: Patients who use vaping products and health professionals evaluating their safety.

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This study looks at how tracking the presence of the coronavirus in wastewater can help monitor its spread in Stockholm over more than two years. Researchers collected 600 samples, finding that the amounts of SARS-CoV-2 in the wastewater closely matched the number of positive COVID-19 tests, with a strong correlation of 0.86. This approach not only helped predict COVID-19 waves but also showed how tracking different virus variants in wastewater is possible, which can be crucial for responding to future outbreaks. Who this helps: This benefits public health officials and researchers monitoring infectious diseases.

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Researchers studied how a high-fat diet affects gut bacteria in male and female mice, finding that their responses differed significantly based on sex. Female mice showed a greater presence of a specific bacteria, Blautia hansenii, which was linked to lower insulin levels. In contrast, male mice had changes in other bacteria that affected inflammation. This matters because understanding these differences can help tailor dietary recommendations and treatments based on sex, potentially improving metabolic health. Who this helps: This research benefits patients, particularly those at risk for metabolic disorders.

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This study examined how well the Primary Care Behavioral Health (PCBH) model is being implemented in healthcare settings. Researchers created a system to track this implementation using data from electronic medical records (EMRs). They found that regularly monitoring this data can improve the quality of care provided, as it allows for better insights and consistent reporting on how well the PCBH model is being followed. Who this helps: This benefits patients and healthcare providers by improving the integration of behavioral health into primary care.

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The study focused on improving a tool that predicts how likely it is for patients needing a stem cell transplant to find a matched unrelated donor. Researchers reviewed data from 1,530 potential transplant recipients and developed a new tool, MSKv2.0, which accurately classified searches as "Good" or "Poor." They found that 57% of searches were categorized as Good for European patients, while only 15% were Good for non-European patients, highlighting the tool's effectiveness in helping all groups find donors more efficiently. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing transplants and their doctors by providing clearer options for finding donors.

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This study looked at a type of rare ovarian tumor called granulosa cell tumors (GCTs) to explore the role of a protein called estrogen receptor beta (ERβ). Researchers found that ERβ is highly present in these tumors, which means it could be a target for new treatments. Understanding how ERβ works in GCTs could lead to better therapeutic strategies, particularly for patients with later-stage or recurring tumors. Who this helps: This helps patients with granulosa cell tumors and their doctors.

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This study looked at children under 21 years old who had leukemia and relapsed after their first stem cell transplant. Researchers found that after receiving a second transplant using unrelated cord blood, 69.2% of the patients were still alive three years later, and only 15.9% had relapsed again. These findings are promising because they show that this approach could be a safe and effective option for treating young patients whose leukemia returns after initial treatment. Who this helps: This helps pediatric cancer patients and their doctors by providing a strong treatment option for relapse.

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This study focuses on a patient with dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP), a rare type of skin cancer that forms a firm lump on the body. The case involved a 41-year-old man who sought surgery for a mass on his abdomen, which was identified as DFSP after a tissue examination. DFSP is known for its slow growth but tends to come back after treatment, so doctors need to be aware of it to provide proper care and monitor for any return of the disease. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with DFSP and their doctors by highlighting the need for careful monitoring and possible additional treatments.

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This study looked at how the estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) influences the ovaries in mice by analyzing which genes it affects. Researchers found that when ERβ was removed, there were fewer luteal cells and more theca and cumulus cells, indicating a shift in cell type. The study also revealed that ERβ works closely with another protein called LRH-1 to regulate gene activity that impacts ovary function and fertility. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and scientists working to understand female fertility issues.

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This study looked at how celebrities entering politics, like Donald Trump and Vladimir Zelensky, affect the idea that experts should lead in a democracy. The authors argue that while celebrities can shape public opinion without expertise, this influence can actually help support democratic elitism—where knowledgeable individuals guide decision-making. However, they also caution that this reliance on celebrity influence may lead to challenges for traditional democratic practices. Who this helps: This benefits political theorists, policymakers, and voters seeking to understand the evolving landscape of democratic leadership.

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This study looked at how certain small molecules called microRNAs are controlled by estrogen in cancer cells. Researchers developed a reliable method to analyze these estrogen-regulated microRNAs, which can influence cancer behavior, acting either to promote or suppress tumors. Understanding these mechanisms is important because it may help identify new ways to diagnose and treat cancers that are affected by estrogen. Who this helps: This benefits patients, especially those with hormone-related cancers, and doctors looking for better treatment options.

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The study looked at the Hexcite program at Johns Hopkins, which helps doctors learn how to turn their innovative ideas into startup businesses. Over 16 weeks, clinicians worked with experts and took part in workshops, leading to many participants reporting a better understanding of teamwork and innovation. Notably, many teams received funding for their ideas after completing the program, highlighting its success in fostering clinician engagement in innovation. Who this helps: This benefits clinicians looking to develop new healthcare solutions and improve patient care.

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This study focused on a rare type of breast cancer called adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC), which usually occurs in the salivary glands. Doctors examined a 53-year-old woman who had a concerning breast lump that was confirmed to be ACC after a biopsy. There is no agreed-upon best way to treat this type of cancer, but surgery and further treatments like medical and radiation oncology were suggested, with ongoing monitoring needed to watch for any return of the disease. Who this helps: This helps patients with rare breast cancers and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how art workshops delivered to people with dementia and their caregivers during the Covid-19 lockdown affected their experiences. Thirty-three participants received “Home Art Boxes” for 11 months, and feedback led to improvements in the activities provided. The findings showed that these remote workshops helped maintain connections and improved well-being, enjoyment, and cognitive function, even as participants faced challenges due to their declining conditions. Who this helps: This benefits people with dementia and their caregivers.

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This study looked at the role of the estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) in inflammation, particularly in the colon. Researchers found that activating ERβ helped reduce inflammation and the presence of certain immune cells in the colon, especially during conditions like colitis and colitis-related colorectal cancer. This is important because targeting ERβ might offer a new way to prevent or treat inflammation and related cancers in the gut. Who this helps: Patients with colitis or at risk for colorectal cancer.

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This study looked at how colitis, an inflammatory bowel disease, affects male and female mice differently in relation to colorectal cancer. The researchers found that male mice showed a stronger response to the treatment used to induce colitis and cancer, with specific genes related to inflammation and immune response being more active in males compared to females. Understanding these differences is important because it highlights how men may be at a higher risk for developing colorectal cancer when dealing with inflammatory bowel disease. Who this helps: This helps patients with inflammatory bowel disease and their doctors understand sex-specific risks for colorectal cancer.

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This study looked at how people in New Orleans understand and respond to the problem of discarded vehicle tires, which are breeding grounds for mosquitoes that can carry serious diseases. Of the 290 households surveyed, while 95.5% recognized that mosquitoes can transmit diseases like West Nile and Zika, only 2.3% had a good understanding of the risks linked to tire dumping and mosquito control. This lack of awareness, especially among lower-income households, highlights the need for targeted community education and outreach efforts to reduce illegal tire dumping and manage mosquito populations effectively. Who this helps: This helps residents of New Orleans and public health officials working to control mosquito-borne diseases.

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This study looked at how healthcare professionals experience diabetes counseling and education focused on empowering patients. Out of 22 participants (including doctors, nurses, dieticians, and psychologists), 10 shared their in-depth thoughts through interviews. The findings showed that these professionals shifted from merely fixing problems to facilitating patients’ self-care, which made their work more fulfilling and possibly helped prevent burnout. Who this helps: This benefits healthcare professionals working with diabetes patients.

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This study looked at how a protein called Fra-1 interacts with another protein, PARP1, in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and how this affects treatment with a drug called olaparib. The researchers found that blocking Fra-1 can make TNBC cells more sensitive to olaparib, potentially improving treatment outcomes, especially for those with non-BRCA mutations. They noted that high levels of PARP1 in breast cancer are linked to worse patient outcomes, emphasizing the importance of targeting Fra-1 to enhance olaparib's effectiveness. Who this helps: This helps patients with triple-negative breast cancer, especially those without BRCA mutations.

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This study looked at how a protein called estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) interacts with DNA in colon cancer cells to understand its role in preventing the disease. Researchers found that ERβ binds to certain regions of the DNA associated with genes that control tumor growth and cell behavior, and identified that one important gene, CST5, is linked to tumor suppression in colon cancer. These findings are important because they help explain how estrogen might protect against colon cancer and could lead to new prevention strategies. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk for colon cancer and doctors looking for new treatment methods.

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This study looked at how specific genetic factors in donor cells can affect the success of bone marrow transplants for patients with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). Researchers found that 75% of the patients had at least one donor with a genetic make-up that was beneficial for their treatment, and 50% of those patients successfully received transplants. Particularly, donors with certain weakly inhibiting genes showed a lower risk of cancer returning after the transplant. Who this helps: This helps patients with AML by improving the chances of a successful transplant outcome.

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This study looked at how estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) affects inflammation in colon cancer cells by examining a key protein called p65. Researchers found that in one type of colon cancer cell line (HT29), ERβ reduces the ability of p65 to bind to DNA, while in another type (SW480), ERβ actually increases p65 binding. This is important because it helps explain how estrogen might help protect against colon cancer by influencing inflammatory responses in different ways depending on the specific cancer cell line. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with colon cancer by potentially informing treatments that target inflammation.

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The study looked at how much knowledge and understanding intern doctors have about responsible antibiotic use at the Bloemfontein Academic Complex. Out of 120 interns, 92 responded, and many showed gaps in their knowledge: they scored an average of 5.4 out of 10 on related questions, with only 4.4% able to correctly manage a drip site infection. This matters because improving their training can help reduce antibiotic resistance and ensure better patient care. Who this helps: This benefits patients by promoting safer and more effective treatment.