Within the arena of medical education, it is generally acknowledged that assessment drives learning. Assessment is one of the most significant influences on a student's experience of higher education and improving assessment has a huge impact on the quality of learning (Liu, N. and Carless, D, 2006). Ideally we want to enhance student's capacity for learning and engagement with the curriculum (ACGME Outcome Project, 2000). However, this doesn't always happen as it is heavily dependent on the form of assessment used and whether or not timely comprehensive feedback is given. This paper focuses on the challenges associated with assessment in medical education and looks at the current trends. Well-designed formative assessment can focus students on effective learning and divert them away from summative assessment, which focuses attention on grades and reproductive thinking (Liu, N. and Carless, D, 2006). Whether one decides to utilise summative or formative assessment methods, both methods of assessment are useful when applied in the correct setting and at an appropriate stage of learning.It is apparent that assessment is the gatekeeper of higher learning and we need to embrace new methods of assessment in order to meet the challenges associated with 'Generation Y'. Novel assessment methods such as self and peer assessment are growing in popularity. Students who participate in these forms of assessment may initially feel that it is challenging but worthwhile overall, as it helps to develop their critical thinking skills. Incorporating complimentary assessment components could benefit student's learning without sacrificing the integrity of the curriculum.

To identify the determinants of in-hospital mortality post hip fracture in Ireland 2013-2017. FindingsOlder males with poor pre-fracture mobility who were not mobilised on the day of/after surgery had the highest risk of in-hospital mortality. MessageEarly mobilisation on the day of/after surgery should be added as a new formal hip fracture standard of care in keeping with best international practice.

Hip fractures continue to be one of the most serious and costly injuries suffered by older people globally. This paper describes the development of a national hip fracture audit and summarizes the first six years of data from the Republic of Ireland. This can help inform care, standards and outcomes of hip fracture patients.

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Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common autosomal recessive disease of the Caucasian population worldwide, with respiratory disease remaining the most relevant source of morbidity and mortality. Computed tomography (CT) is frequently used for monitoring disease complications and progression. Over the last fifteen years there has been a six-fold increase in the use of CT, which has lead to a growing concern in relation to cumulative radiation exposure. The challenge to the medical profession is to identify dose reduction strategies that meet acceptable image quality, but fulfil the requirements of a diagnostic quality CT. Dose-optimisation, particularly in CT, is essential as it reduces the chances of patients receiving cumulative radiation doses in excess of 100 mSv, a dose deemed significant by the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation. This review article explores the current trends in imaging in CF with particular emphasis on new developments in dose optimisation.