Acute kidney injury among hospitalised patients who died due to COVID-19 in the Eastern Cape, South Africa

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) commonly occurs in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients who have been hospitalised and is associated with a poor prognosis. This study aimed to determine the incidence of AKI among COVID-19 patients who died in a regional hospital in South Africa. Methods: This retrospective record review was conducted at the Mthatha Regional Hospital in South Africa's Eastern Cape province. Data were collected between 10 July 2020 and 31 January 2021. Results: The incidence of AKI was 38% among the hospitalised patients who died due to COVID-19. Most study participants were female, with a mean age of 63.3 ± 16 years. The most common symptom of COVID-19 at the time of hospitalisation was shortness of breath, followed by fever and cough. Half of the patients had hypertension, while diabetes, human immunodeficiency viruses (HIV) and tuberculosis (TB) were other comorbidities. At admission, the average oxygen saturation was 75.5% ± 17. Conclusion: The study revealed a high incidence of AKI among hospitalised patients who died due to COVID-19. It also found that those received adequate crystalloid fluids at the time of admission had a lower incidence of AKI. Contribution: Acute kidney injury can be prevented by adequate fluid management during early stage of COVID-19. Majority of COVID-19 patients were referred from lower level of care and primary care providers have their first encounter with these patients. Adequate fluid resuscitation in primary care settings can improve the outcome of hospitalised COVID-19 patients.

Aspects cliniques et pronostiques des accidents vasculaires cérébraux en réanimation au Cameroun / Clinical and prognostic aspects of stroke in a Cameroonian intensive care unit

Introduction. L'accident vasculaire cérébral (AVC) est une pathologie fréquente. Le but de l'étude était de décrire les aspects pronostiques des AVC en réanimation. Patients et Méthodes. Il s'agissait d'une étude longitudinale descriptive et analytique, qui s'est déroulée de janvier à avril 2019. Nous avons recruté dans les services de réanimation de trois hôpitaux universitaires de Yaoundé. Etait inclus, tout patient hospitalisé en réanimation pour prise en charge d'un AVC, ayant réalisé un scanner cérébral. Le consentement était obtenu auprès du patient ou d'un parent. Les variables étaient les données sociodémographiques, les données cliniques et pronostiques.Les données étaient analysées à partir du logiciel Epi info 3.5.4 et Microsoft Office Excel 2013. Les proportions étaient comparées par le test de Chi carré ou le test exact de Fisher. Les médianes étaient comparées par le test de MannWhitney. La survie était représentée par une courbe de Kaplan Meier. Résultats. Au total, 34 patients étaient inclus. L'âge moyen était de 59,9±9,7 ans. Le sex-ratio était de 0,7. Le délai moyen d'admission était de 4,5±4,84 jours. L'hypertension artérielle était le facteur de risque dominant (42,5%). Une altération de la conscience était fréquente (73,5%). L'hémiplégie constituait le principal signe neurologique focal. L'AVC hémorragique était retrouvé chez 58,8% des patients. Deux patients étaient intubés (5,88%). Dix-huit décès étaient enregistrés (52,9%). La durée moyenne du séjour était de 21,8±19,4 jours. Les facteurs pronostiques étaient le score de Glasgow <8 (P=0,01), le score de NIHSS≥15 (P=0,001), l'hyperthermie (P=0,04), la présence de trouble de la déglutition à l'entrée (P=0,01) et l'effet de masse au scanner cérébral (P=0,01). Conclusion. Les AVC restent une affection fréquente dans notre pays. La mortalité est élevée.Elle est liée à la gravité clinique et la survenue des complications

Background. Stroke is a frequent pathology. The aim of the study was to describe the clinical, and prognostic aspects of stroke in the intensive care unit (ICU). Patients and Methods. This was a longitudinal descriptive and analytical study, which took place from January to April 2019. We recruited from the intensive care units of three university hospitals in Yaoundé. Any patient hospitalised in the ICU for stroke management who had undergone a brain scan was included. Consent was obtained from the patient or a relative. The variables were socio-demographic data, clinical data, therapeutic data and outcome. Data were analysed using Epi info 3.5.4 and Microsoft Office Excel 2013. Proportions were compared using the Chi-square test or Fisher's exact test. Medians were compared by the Mann-Whitney test. Survival was represented by a Kaplan Meier curve. Results. A total of 34 patients were included. The mean age was 59.9±9.7 years. The sex ratio was 0.7. The mean time to admission was 4.5 days ±4.84. Hypertension was the dominant risk factor (42.5%). Altered consciousness was common (73.5%). Hemiplegia was the main focal neurological sign. Hemorrhagic stroke was found in 58.8% of the patients. All patients received general measures. Two patients were intubated (5.88%). Eighteen deaths were recorded (52.9%). The average length of stay was 21.8±19.4 days. Prognostic factors were Glasgow score <8 (P=0.01), NIHSS score≥15 (P=0.001), hyperthermia (P=0.04), presence of swallowing disorder at admission (P=0.01) and mass effect on brain scan (P=0.01). Conclusion. Stroke remains a frequent condition in our country. Mortality is high. It is related to the clinical severity and the occurrence of complications.

Prise en charge médicale du premier épisode de bronchiolite aiguë des nourrissons de moins de 12 mois hospitalisés au CHU de Cocody de 2020 à 2022 / Medical management of first episode of acute bronchiolitis in children less than 12 months old hospitalized at Cocody University Hospital from 2020 to 2022

Introduction. La bronchiolite aiguë du nourrisson est une infection virale des voies aériennes inférieures qui représente un problème majeur de santé publique. L'objectif de cette étude était de décrire la prise en charge médicale du premier épisode de bronchiolite aiguë au CHU de Cocody. Méthodes. Il s'agissait d'une étude rétrospective à visée descriptive qui a consisté à décrire la prise en charge médicale des nourrissons hospitalisés dans le CHU de Cocody du 1er Janvier 2020 au 31 Décembre 2022. Résultats : Sur la période d'étude, 125 nourrissons sont hospitalisés pour bronchiolite aiguë. La tranche d'âge de 4 à 6 mois était majoritaire (49,6%). L'âge moyen des patients est de 4,7 mois avec des extrêmes de 1 à 12 mois (écart-type=1,277 mois). Le sex-ratio était de 1,27. La numération formule anguine (NFS), la C Reactive Protein (CRP) et la radiographie thoracique standard ont été réalisées chez tous les patients. La désobstruction rhino-pharyngée (DRP) a été pratiquée dans 96,0% des cas. Une nébulisation avec du salbutamol a été appliquée à tous les patients. Cette nébulisation a été associée à une antibiothérapie (71,2 %), une corticothérapie (52 %) et à une kinésithérapie respiratoire (48 %). L'évolution a été favorable dans 96 % des cas, malgré une sous-utilisation de la ventilation non-invasive dans notre dans notre contexte. Conclusion : L'analyse de la prise en charge de la bronchiolite aiguë du nourrisson au CHU de Cocody, a revélé des écarts par rapport aux recommandations de la HAS française. Il serait judicieux d'établir un consensus national adapté à notre contexte de travail.

Acute bronchiolitis in infants is a viral infection of the lower airways that represents a major public health problem. The main objective was to describe the management of this condition in the Ivorian pediatric hospital context. Methods. This was a descriptive cross-sectional study, with retrospective data collection. We have described the care of infants aged 1 month to 12 months, hospitalized for bronchiolitis in the Pediatrics department of the CHU of Cocody from January 01, 2020 to December 31, 2022. Results. We collected 125 files. The age group of 4 to 6 months was the majority (49.6%). The average age of the patients was 4.7 months (ecart-type=1,277 months) with extremes of 1 to 12 months. The sex ratio was 1.27. NFS, CRP and AP chest X-ray were performed in all patients. Nasopharyngeal clearance was performed in 96.0% of cases. The infants were all nebulized with salbutamol. Among them, 52% received a corticosteroid, 71.2% antibiotic therapy and in 48% of cases respiratory physiotherapy was performed. The evolution was favorable in 96% of cases. Conclusion : The analysis of the management of acute bronchiolitis in infants at the Cocody University Hospital reveals deviations from the recommendations of the French HAS. It would be wise to establish a national consensus adapted to our work context.

Bleeding and thrombosis outcomes in hospitalised COVID-19 patients on low-molecular-weight heparin and antiplatelet therapy

Background. An increased incidence of thromboembolic events in hospitalised COVID­19 patients has been demonstrated despite the use of low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH). Antiplatelet therapy prior to admission and early in the disease course has been hypothesised to be protective against thrombosis.Objectives. To describe the bleeding and thrombosis outcomes in hospitalised patients with confirmed COVID­19 receiving LMWH, with and without concomitant antiplatelet therapy. Secondary objectives were to explore predictors of bleeding and thrombosis outcomes, and dosing practices of antiplatelet therapy and LMWH.Methods. We conducted a descriptive, cross-sectional study of bleeding and thrombosis outcomes at Tygerberg Academic Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa, during the first COVID­19 wave, in 808 hospitalised patients with confirmed COVID­19 receiving LMWH with and without concomitant antiplatelet therapy. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed if predictors were deemed statistically and clinically significant.Results. Patients receiving both LMWH and antiplatelet therapy had similar bleeding outcomes compared with patients only receiving LMWH (odds ratio (OR) 1.5; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.6 - 4.0). Patients receiving both LMWH and antiplatelet therapy had increased odds of developing thrombosis compared with patients only receiving LMWH (OR 4.8; 95% CI 2.1 - 10.7).Conclusion. The bleeding risk in COVID­19 patients receiving both LMWH and antiplatelet therapy was not significantly increased. A potentially higher risk of thrombosis in patients receiving LMWH and antiplatelet therapy was observed. However, this could reflect confounding by indication. Randomised studies are required to further evaluate the use of antiplatelet therapy to treat hospitalised patients with COVID­19.

Features of malaria among patients HIV infected in a Department of Infectious Diseases in Bamako

Introduction. We studied malaria in HIV infected subjects hospitalized in the department of infectious diseases at Point G Teaching Hospital in Mali, with the objective to have current data on malaria in patients infected by HIV. Materials and methods. We conducted a prospective study from October, 1st 2016 to September 30th 2018 in patients seropositive for HIV having positive thick smear for Plasmodium and hospitalized in the department of infectious diseases at Point G Teaching Hospital. We collected sociodemographic, clinical and lab data form those patients. Data have been entered and analyzed using SPSS20.0 software. Results. Hospital frequency of malaria among People living with HIV was 24.4% (151/618). This population has a mean-age of 44.1±12.4 y/o and a sex ratio (M/F) of 0.86. Majority of patients were at WHO stage IV of HIV infection (63.4%). Symptoms were by decreasing frequency: fever (98.3%); headache (86.4%); anorexia (72.9%); asthenia (61.0%) and vomiting (42.4%). the mean parasitemia was 172.9±352.1 trophozoite/mm3 . Mean hemoglobin level was 9.1±3.2 g/dl and the mean CD4 count was 9±3 cell/mm3 . Severe malaria was independent from WHO HIV stage and from immunologic deficiency. The malaria treatment when correctly followed conduct to good improvement of the anemia (p = 0.03) and the negativity of the parasitemia (p = 0.00). Death in our HIV patient is linked to association with severe malaria (p = 0,012). Conclusion. Malaria is relatively common and severe among PLWHA in Mali. Prompt treatment is still effective and must be implemented to ensure a good prognosis. Despite cotrimoxazole chemoprophylaxis, a certain number of PLHIV suffer from malaria, raising the hypothesis of plasmodium resistance to antifolates.

Patients in public hospitals received insufficient food to meet daily protein and energy requirements: Cape Town Metropole, South Africa

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the energy and protein content of meals served and consumed by hospitalised patients compared with their needs, to assess patients' food satisfaction and investigate associations with energy and protein intake. Design: This was an exploratory quantitative cross-sectional study. Setting: Three public hospitals within the Cape Town metropole were recruited; a central hospital (945 beds), large district hospital (372 beds) and a medium district hospital (172 beds). Subjects: Adult inpatients 18+ years admitted to medical or surgical wards, on a non-therapeutic/normal hospital diet were recruited by purposive sampling method between 2018 and 2019.Outcomes measures: Each participant's weight and height were measured to calculate body mass index (BMI) and to determine energy/protein requirements. The Acute Care Hospital Foodservice Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire was administered. Meals were weighed before and after consumption to calculate energy and protein intake per patient/day. Results: A total of 128 patients (males = 71) participated. Total protein served did not meet patient requirements in any of the hospitals. Consumed energy and protein were significantly below requirements in all hospitals (p < 0.002). Perceived food quality (r = 0.38, p = 0.039) and staff/service issues (r = 0.39; p = 0.035) were significantly positively correlated with protein intake, while appetite correlated positively (r = 0.42, p = 0.006; r = 0.41, p = 0.008) and length of stay (LOS) correlated negatively (r = −0.46, p = 0.002; r = −0.42, p = 0.008) with energy and protein intake, respectively. Conclusion: Energy and protein served was significantly lower than participants' requirements in all three hospitals and none achieved the official ration scale amounts. Nearly 40% reported having a normal appetite and did not receive additional food from family or friends, which may lead to hospital-acquired malnutrition and increased hospital length of stay (LOS). Improved hospital food quality, quantity, mealtimes and staff training should be a focus to improve patient energy and protein intake

COVID-19 infection at a psychiatric hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: Clinical service planning and challenges

Background: South Africa had over 4 million cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infections and more than 1 million COVID-19-related deaths. Despite the devastating psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is little qualitative, critical evaluation of government mental health services in this resource-limited setting. Aim: The authors describe the clinical service plan and response to the COVID-19 pandemic at a government psychiatric hospital. Setting: KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Methods: A descriptive narrative overview of the specialised psychiatric hospital's clinical response (April 2020 ­ March 2021) to the COVID-19 pandemic was undertaken in the following domains: screening policy; testing and swabbing policy; staff training and monitoring; and restructuring the wards to accommodate mental health care users (MHCUs) with suspected cases of COVID-19. Results: The in-depth narrative reviews led to the introduction of staff training, routine COVID-19 reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing of all MHCUs, the creation of designated quarantine and isolation facilities and screening of physical health status of patients with COVID-19 prior to transfer being implemented to prevent an outbreak or increased morbidity or mortality. Conclusion: Implementing a service plan early which included staff training, screening and routine COVID-19 testing services for psychiatric admissions in a rapidly evolving environment with few additional resources was challenging. The absence of guidelines early in the pandemic that addressed the unique needs of a clinical psychiatric inpatient population is a noteworthy learning point. Contribution: The article highlights that the inpatient infrastructural requirements and clinical management protocols of acutely psychiatrically ill inpatients, in the context of infectious outbreaks, require dedicated task teams and bespoke policies.

Incidences de la présence des garde-malades sur la prise en charge médicale des patients. Etude menée au Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Brazzaville

La gestion du malade dans l?univers hospitalier implique non seulement le personnel soignant, mais aussi d?autres acteurs sociaux encore moins connus des gestionnaires des structures hospitalières et des catégories socio professionnelles y évoluant. Parmi ces acteurs encore moins connu, il y a le garde-malade faisant partie du personnel hospitalier en charge de la prise en charge des patients en milieu hospitalier. Cependant au Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire de Brazzaville en République du Congo, les garde-malades sont constitués des parents, amis et connaissances dont la représentation est importante dans cet univers hospitalier. Cette représentation aussi remarquable soit ­ elle, interpelle plus d?un observateur au point de s?interroger sur les raisons à l?origine de cette présence. Notre étude répond à la logique qui est celle de tenter de comprendre et d?analyser ce phénomène devenu très inquiétant. Ce phénomène est donc à lire dans la perspective de la complexité des réalités sociales qui s?expliquent à partir des déterminants socio culturels, fondements de la vie sociale. Aussi, la faiblesse des services sous tutelle du C.H.U-B et la culture bantoue, laquelle repose sur la solidarité mécanique qui, appelle à la cohésion sociale, constituent des facteurs qui expliquent ce phénomène. A cet effet, une observation participante a été effectuée dans cette structure hospitalière. Celle-ci a permis de relever une influence importante qui, pour diverses raisons réponde aux préoccupations des malades. Cette étude présente trois intérêts : scientifique, social et personnel. D?abord, elle montre la difficulté en ressources humaines qui se traduit par la sous représentativité des catégories socio professionnelles qui, contribueraient à résoudre la question de l?effectivité de prise en charge du malade. Ensuite, l?étude présente un autre intérêt qui met en exergue la cohésion sociale qui, s?exprime à travers la chaine de solidarité dont la famille est le maillon. Le dernier centre d?intérêt est personnel. Il met en relief un aspect culturel très intéressant, celui de l?homogénéité et de la dynamique des rapports des acteurs impliqués dans la gestion du malade. Quoi qu?il en soit, le garde-malade joue un rôle de premier plan dans la gestion du malade. Il accompagne le personnel soignant, car partageant le même environnement social que le malade. Aussi, sa visibilité nécessite un encadrement juridique pour lui donner une véritable identité.

The management of the patient in the hospital word involves not only the nursing staff, but also other social actors even less known to the manager of hospital structures and socio-professional categories. Among these actors even less known, there is the nurse who is part of the hospital staff in charge of the care of patients in hospital environment. Howerver at the Brazzaville Hospital and University Center in the Republic of Congo, the nurses are made up of relatives, friends and acquaintanees whose representation is important in this hospital environment. This representation, as remarkable as it is, calls out to more than one observer to the point of questioning the reasons behind this presence.Our study reponds to the logic of trying to understand and analyze this phenomenon, which has become very worrying. This phenomenon should therefore be read in the perspective of the complexity of social realities which can be explained on the basis of socio-cultural determinants, the foundations of social life. Also, the weakness of the services under the supervision of the C.H.U-B and of the Bantu culture, which is based on mechanical solidarity, which, calls for social cohesion, are factors that explain this phenomenon. To this end, a participant observation was carried out this hospital structure. This made it possible to identify an important influence which, for various reasons, responds to the concerns of patients. This study has three interests: scientific, social and personal. First, it shows the difficulty in human resources which result in the representativeness of the socio-professional categories which would help to resolve the issue of effectiveness of patient care. The study presents another interest which highlights the social cohesion which is expressed through the chain of solidarity of which the family is the link. The last area of interest is personal. It highlights a very interesting cultural aspect, that of the homogeneity and dynamics of relationships of the actors involved in the management of the patient. In any case, the nurse plays a leading role in management of the patient. He supports the nursing staff, because they share the same social environment as the patient. Also, its visibility requires a legal framework to give it a real identity

Characteristics of hospitalised COVID-19 patients during the first two pandemic waves, Gauteng

Background: Gauteng province (GP) was one of the most affected provinces in the country during the first two pandemic waves in South Africa. We aimed to describe the characteristics of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients admitted in one of the largest quaternary hospitals in GP during the first two waves. Objectives: Study objectives were to determine factors associated with hospital admission during the second wave and to describe factors associated with in-hospital COVID-19 mortality. Method: Data from a national hospital-based surveillance system of COVID-19 hospitalisations were used. Multivariable logistic regression models were conducted to compare patients hospitalised during wave 1 and wave 2, and to determine factors associated with in-hospital mortality.Results: The case fatality ratio was the highest (39.95%) during wave 2. Factors associated with hospitalisation included age groups 40­59 years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.14, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.08­4.27), 60­79 years (aOR: 2.49, 95% CI: 1.23­5.02) and ≥ 80 years (aOR: 3.39, 95% CI: 1.35­8.49). Factors associated with in­hospital mortality included age groups 60­79 years (aOR: 2.55, 95% CI: 1.11­5.84) and ≥ 80 years (aOR: 5.66, 95% CI: 2.12­15.08); male sex (aOR: 1.56, 95% CI: 1.22­1.99); presence of an underlying comorbidity (aOR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.37­2.26), as well as being admitted during post­wave 2 (aOR: 2.42, 95% CI: 1.33­4.42). Conclusion: Compared to the recent omicron-driven pandemic waves characterised by lower admission rates and less disease severity among younger patients, COVID-19 in-hospital mortality during the earlier waves was associated with older age, being male and having an underlying comorbidity.

Profil épidémioclinique et issue thérapeutique des patients hospitalisés pour COVID-19 au Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sourô Sanou de Bobo Dioulasso Burkina Faso / Clinical presentation and outcome of patients hospitalized for COVID-19 at the Sourô Sanou University Teaching Hospital of Bobo Dioulasso (Burkina Faso)

Objectif. L'apparition de plusieurs cas de pneumopathie d'origine inconnue en Chine a conduit à l'identification du SARS-CoV-2. L'objectif de ce travail était de décrire le profil épidémioclinique et évolutif des patients hospitalisés dans notre centre de prise en charge afin de contribuer à l'amélioration de la lutte contre cette pandémie. Population et Méthodes. Il s'est agi d'une étude de cohorte rétrospective qui s'est déroulée du 19 mars au 31 septembre 2020 au CHUSS de Bobo Dioulasso. Résultats. Au total, 44 patients ont été inclus dans l'étude. La moyenne d'âge des patients était de 46,8 ans [14-84 ans]. Le sex ratio était de 0,7. La tranche d'âge la plus représentée était celle 50 et 64 ans avec 38,4% des patients. Les patients diabétiques et hypertendus représentaient respectivement 25% et 29,5% des cas. Les principaux symptômes étaient la dyspnée, la fièvre et la toux notées respectivement chez 54,5%, 54,5 % et 47,7% des cas. A la radiographie thoracique, les opacités de type micronodulaire étaient les plus représentées dans 66,7% des cas. L'oxygénothérapie a été nécessaire dans 38,6% des cas. Le protocole Covid-19 en vigueur dans le pays était instauré chez 90,9% des cas. Avec une durée d'hospitalisation moyenne de 12,4 jours, l'évolution clinique a été marquée par un décès chez 22,7 % des cas. Conclusion. Dans notre contexte, cette maladie reste l'apanage des sujets âgés présentant des comorbidités. L'une de difficultés de sa prise en charge était l'insuffisance du plateau technique expliquant en grande partie ce fort taux de létalité.

Objective. The occurrence of several cases of pneumonia of unknown origin in China led to the identification of SARS-CoV-2. The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiological and clinical profile of patients admitted to our care center to contribute to the improvement of the control of this pandemic. Population and methods. This was a retrospective cohort study which took place from 19 March to 31 September 2020 at the CHUSS of Bobo Dioulasso. Results. A total of 44 patients were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 46.8 years [14- 84 years]. The sex ratio was 0.7. The most represented age group was 50-64 years with 38.4% of patients. Diabetic and hypertensive patients represented 25% and 29.5% of the cases respectively. The main symptoms were dyspnea, fever and cough, which were noted in 54.5%, 54.5% and 47.7% of cases respectively. On chest X-ray, micronodular opacities were the most common in 66.7% of cases. Oxygen therapy was required in 38.6% of cases. The Covid-19 protocol in force in the country was implemented in 90.9% of cases. With an average hospital stay of 12.4 days, the clinical course was marked by death in 22.7% of cases. Conclusion. In our context, this disease remains the prerogative of elderly subjects with comorbidities. One of the difficulties of its management was the insufficiency of the technical platform explaining in large part this high rate of lethality.

Chest radiography evaluation in patients admitted with confirmed COVID-19 infection, in a resource limited South African isolation hospital

Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the subsequent global outbreak (coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID-19]) was declared a public health emergency in January 2020. Recent radiologic literature regarding COVID-19 has primarily focused on Computed Tomography (CT) chest findings, with chest radiography lacking in comparison. Objectives: To describe the demographic profile of adult patients with COVID-19 pneumonia requiring hospital admission. To describe and quantify the imaging spectrum on chest radiography using a severity index, and to correlate the severity of disease with prognosis. Method: Retrospective review of chest radiographs and laboratory records in patients admitted to a South African tertiary hospital with confirmed COVID-19 infection. The chest X-rays were systematically reviewed for several radiographic features, which were then quantified using the Brixia scoring system, and correlated to the patient's outcome. Results: A total of 175 patients (mean age: 53.34 years) admitted with COVID-19 were included. Ground glass opacification (98.9%), consolidation (86.3%), and pleural effusion (29.1%) was commonly found. Involvement of bilateral lung fields (96.6%) with no zonal predominance (61.7%), was most prevalent. Correlation between the Brixia score and outcome was found between severe disease and death (odds ratio [OR]: 12.86; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.58­104.61). Many patients had unknown TB (71.4%) and HIV (72.6%) statuses. Conclusion: In this study population, ground glass opacification, consolidation, and pleural effusions, with bilateral lung involvement and no zonal predominance were the most prevalent findings in proven COVID-19 infection. Quantification using the Brixia scoring system may assist with timeous assessment of disease severity in COVID-19 positive patients, as an overall predicator of clinical outcome.

Venous thromboembolism risk assessment and prophylaxis in hospitalised medical patients in the Cape Town metropole, South Africa

Background. Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is regarded as the most preventable cause of inpatient death in hospital settings globally. VTE can be prevented through the provision of non-pharmacological and/or pharmacological thromboprophylaxis following individualised risk screening. The Caprini risk assessment model (RAM) offers a validated and well-established approach for VTE risk assessment in medical inpatients. Literature findings describe a trend towards inappropriate and under-prescribing of thromboprophylaxis in this population. Together with concerns regarding clinicians' perceived importance of VTE risk assessment, the need to clarify these aspects of practice is evident. Objectives. To describe VTE risk assessment and prophylaxis practices of medical practitioners in public sector hospitals in Western Cape Province, South Africa (SA). Methods. A retrospective, cross-sectional study design was employed in the medical wards of two district hospitals and one regional hospital in the Cape Town metropole, Western Cape. Medical folders of adult medical inpatients admitted between January and July 2020 were reviewed to assess VTE risk using the Caprini RAM. Thromboprophylaxis therapy prescribed and contraindications to chemoprophylaxis were also evaluated. Results. Of 380 patients included in the review, 51.6% were female, and the average age was 52.1 years (range 18 - 96); 21.3% had their weight recorded, while none had their height documented. Infectious disease was the predominant diagnosis (49.2%) detected in the sample. Common VTE risk factors identified included bed rest/restricted mobility for <72 hours (76.3%) and serious infection (67.4%). A total of 97.1% of patients (n=369) were found to be at moderate or higher risk of VTE (Caprini score ≥2). Of this at-risk group, 24.1% were eligible to receive chemoprophylaxis, yet no prescription for thromboprophylaxis was identified. Seventy percent of patients (n=266) were prescribed chemoprophylaxis, with enoxaparin accounting for 98.5% of regimens. Contraindications to chemoprophylaxis were recorded in 13.4% of patients. Conclusions. Although rates of VTE prophylaxis in medical inpatients may be improving, thromboprophylaxis still remains critically underutilised in this population. This study highlighted a consequence of this trend, with inappropriate chemoprophylaxis prescribing becoming more evident. Mechanical prophylaxis prescribing in medical inpatients is lacking, despite the associated benefits. RAMs should be adapted for the SA setting, where infectious diseases are prevalent. Future research should assess RAM use by clinicians, as this could provide insight into improving RAM uptake and thromboprophylaxis prescribing.

Pharmaceutical situation of the pharmacological treatment of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 in Libya

By January 2020, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 has spread internationally to a pandemic that mainly targets the respiratory system. The relevant infectious disease has been identified as coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) by World Health Organization and declared as a global pandemic. In Libya, National Center for Disease Control reported the first case of coronavirus disease-2019 on 24th March, 2020. The authorities decided to close borders and activate designated treatment centers to deal with COVID19 cases and contain the outbreak of SARS-COV-2. This study aimed to assess and evaluate the pharmaceutical situation of medications used in pharmacological management of hospitalized COVID-19 patients in Tripoli, Libya. Three WHO availability indicators were selected to be studied and reported. A comprehensive list of medicines used in the management of hospitalized COVID-19 patients was constructed after reviewing and comparing seven national and international pharmacological management protocols and guidelines for hospitalized COVID-19 patients. This comparison revealed that nearly 50 medications are intended for use in COVID-19 inpatient pharmacological management. They all agreed about the use of three medications, representing one from each main class. This list was used to cross check their availability at the chosen designated COVID-19 treatment center. This study proved that local treatment center's protocol is more in line with international guidelines than the national treatment guideline. The later was issued on March 2020. The Libyan National Essential Medicines' List contained 25 out of 50 medications of the comprehensive list based on the last update in April 2019. This study recommends that national treatment guidelines and National Essential Medicines' list require updating. Not all medications used in COVID-19 inpatient management were available in local treatment centers, although, the Emergency Management Department of Ministry of Health in Libya is responsible for the supply of the required medical supplies and medications to the COVID-19 treatment centers.

Management protocol of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 in Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Ilishan-Remo,Ogun State, Nigeria

Coronavirus infection became a global pandemic in March 2020. The number of hospitalized cases in Nigeria and Ogun State has been on a steady increase with a concomitant rise in Mortality. This necessitates a coordinated and a more systemic approach in the management of this deadly disease.As a result of the potential effects of the disease on the socio-economic development of Ogun State, the state government granted Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Ilishan-Remo the permission to diagnose, admit and manage cases in line with Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC)/World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. This led to the establishment of a molecular laboratory and a COVID-19 task force to oversee the treatment of confirmed cases of COVID-19 disease.This protocol is developed to serve as a template for the diagnosis, admission, treatment of cases of COVID-19 diseases presenting for care in the hospital and to prevent the spread of the disease among healthcare workers within the hospital environment

Prévalence et létalité du diabète chez les patients hospitalisés pour Covid-19 dans la wilaya de Tlemcen: Analyse des facteurs associés à la mortalité / Prevalence and lethality of diabetes in patients hospitalised for Covid-19 in Tlemcen: Analysis of associated factors with mortality

OBJECTIFS : Notre travail a pour objectifs de déterminer la prévalence et la létalité du diabète chez les patients hospitalisés pour Covid-19 dans la wilaya de Tlemcen, et d'identifier les paramètres propres au diabétique qui sont associés à la mortalité. PATIENTS ET METHODES : Etude prospective observationnelle incluant les patients adultes admis pour Covid-19 au CHU de Tlemcen du 1er avril au 31 octobre 2020. Les principales données cliniques incluant symptômes, comorbidités et paramètres de sévérité ont été recueillies sur une fiche clinique. Le diagnostic de Covid-19 a été suspecté sur la clinique et confirmé par scanner thoracique sur les lésions radiologiques typiques ou par test RT-PCR. Le diagnostic du diabète a été établi sur la déclaration du patient et le traitement en cours et la glycémie veineuse. Nous avons contacté les patients par téléphone et demandé l'envoi par internet des documents médicaux pour avoir un bilan du diabète avant le Covid. Le critère d'évaluation principal était la mortalité intra hospitalière. RESULTATS : parmi les 4537 patients hospitalisés pour Covid-19, nous avons recensé 390 diabétiques dont 164 ont été joignables. L'analyse a porté sur 163 patients dont 106 hommes. L'âge moyen était de 63 ans. Le type 2 a été retrouvé chez 96% des patients. La moyenne de la durée du diabète est de 9 ans. Le diabète a été découvert fortuitement chez 14 patients (8,6%). Les traitements antidiabétiques incluaient metformine (73%), sulfamides (37%) et insuline (38%). La prévalence du diabète déclaré était de 8,7%. La mortalité chez les diabétiques était de 9,2%. En analyse multivariée ajustée sur l'âge, le sexe et la durée du diabète, les variables associées au décès étaient : l'antécédent d'accident vasculaire cérébral (AVC) (p =0,02) et la prise d'inhibiteurs de l'enzyme de conversion (IEC) (p = 0,007). CONCLUSION : Dans notre cohorte de patients infectés par la Covid-19, la prévalence et la mortalité du diabète étaient relativement élevées. L'antécédent d'AVC et la prise d'IEC étaient associés à la mortalité.

OBJECTIVES : The objectives of our study are to determine the prevalence and lethality of diabetes among patients hospitalized for Covid-19 in the province of Tlemcen and to identify the specific parameters to diabetics that are associated with mortality. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Prospective observational study including adult patients admitted for Covid-19 at academic Hospital of Tlemcen from April 1 to October 31, 2020. The main clinical data including symptoms, comorbidities and severity parameters were collected on a clinical file. The diagnosis of Covid-19 was suspected on the clinical presentation and confirmed by chest scanner on typical radiological lesions or by RT-PCR test. The diagnosis of diabetes was established on the statement of the patient and the current treatment and venous blood sugar. We contacted patients by phone and requested that medical documents be sent via the Internet to have an accurate diabetes assessment before the Covid. The primary endpoint is in-hospital mortality. RESULTS: 4537 patients were hospitalized for Covid-19. 390 diabetics identified of which 164 were reachable. The analysis included 163 patients, of whom 106 men. The average age is 63 years. Type 2 diabetes is found in 96%. The average duration of diabetes is 9 years. Diabetes was discovered in 14 patients (8.6%). Antidiabetic treatments included metformin (73%), sulfonylureas (37%) and insulin (38%). The prevalence of declared diabetes is 8.7%. Mortality among diabetics is 9.2%. Variables associated with death on multivariate analysis adjusted on age, sex and duration of diabetes, were history of stroke (pvalue =0,02) and angiotensin-converting enzyme taking (p-value =0,007). CONCLUSION: In our cohort of patients infected with Covid-19, the prevalence and mortality of diabetes is relatively high. Stroke and angiotensin-converting enzyme were associated with mortality.

Profil hématologique des patients atteints de COVID-19 au niveau du CHU d'Oran en Algérie / Hematological profile of patients with COVID-19 at Oran University Hospital in Algeria

Introduction: La COVID-19 est une zoonose virale causée par la souche de coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. Vue la rapidité de sa propagation, l'OMS a qualifié cette maladie infectieuse émergente de pandémie internationale. L'objectif de notre étude est de décrire les caractéristiques hématologiques des patients atteints de COVID-19 hospitalisés au niveau du CHU d'Oran en Algérie. Patients et méthodes : Il s'agit d'une étude prospective menée entre le 1er Juillet et le 15 Octobre 2020 ayant inclus des patients hospitalisés et/ou suivis au niveau des unités COVID-19 du CHU Oran en Algérie. La numération de formule sanguine a été faite sur un automate Mindray BC ­ 6800. Résultats : Notre étude a inclus 68 patients dont 67,2% de sexe masculin et 32,8% de sexe féminin (sexe ratio H/F = 2) avec une médiane d'âge de 65 ans. Les bilans ont révélé une anémie chez 38,2 % des patients. Une hyperleucocytose (62,2%), une hyperneutrophilie (72,1%), une lymphopénie (66,2%) ,Une éosinopénie (58,8%), une monocytopénie (08,8%), une monocytose (20,6%), une thrombopénie (20,6%), une thrombocytose (14,7%), un VPM (Volume Plaquettaire Moyen) élevé dans 27,9% des cas et un IDP (Indice de Distribution Plaquettaire) élevé chez tous les patients. On constate aussi que 85% des patients âgés de plus de 50 ans ont un NLR ≥ 3,13. Conclusion : Certains paramètres tels que la lymphopénie et l'éosinopénie présentent une valeur diagnostique importante, alors que d'autres paramètres tels que le NLR (Neutrophils-to-lymphocytes ratio), le MLR (Monocyte -to-lymphocytes ratio) et le PLR (Platelet-to-lymphocytes ratio) offrent une valeur pronostique très précieuse.

Understanding the differential impacts of COVID-19 among hospitalised patients in South Africa for equitable response

Background. There are limited in-depth analyses of COVID-19 differential impacts, especially in resource-limited settings such as South Africa (SA).Objectives. To explore context-specific sociodemographic heterogeneities in order to understand the differential impacts of COVID-19. Methods. Descriptive epidemiological COVID-19 hospitalisation and mortality data were drawn from daily hospital surveillance data, National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) update reports (6 March 2020 - 24 January 2021) and the Eastern Cape Daily Epidemiological Report (as of 24 March 2021). We examined hospitalisations and mortality by sociodemographics (age using 10-year age bands, sex and race) using absolute numbers, proportions and ratios. The data are presented using tables received from the NICD, and charts were created to show trends and patterns. Mortality rates (per 100 000 population) were calculated using population estimates as a denominator for standardisation. Associations were determined through relative risks (RRs), 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and p-values <0.001. Results. Black African females had a significantly higher rate of hospitalisation (8.7% (95% CI 8.5 - 8.9)) compared with coloureds, Indians and whites (6.7% (95% CI 6.0 - 7.4), 6.3% (95% CI 5.5 - 7.2) and 4% (95% CI 3.5 - 4.5), respectively). Similarly, black African females had the highest hospitalisation rates at a younger age category of 30 - 39 years (16.1%) compared with other race groups. Whites were hospitalised at older ages than other races, with a median age of 63 years. Black Africans were hospitalised at younger ages than other race groups, with a median age of 52 years. Whites were significantly more likely to die at older ages compared with black Africans (RR 1.07; 95% CI 1.06 - 1.08) or coloureds (RR 1.44; 95% CI 1.33 - 1.54); a similar pattern was found between Indians and whites (RR 1.59; 95% CI 1.47 - 1.73). Women died at older ages than men, although they were admitted to hospital at younger ages. Among black Africans and coloureds, females (50.9 deaths per 100 000 and 37 per 100 000, respectively) had a higher COVID-19 death rate than males (41.2 per 100 000 and 41.5 per 100 000, respectively). However, among Indians and whites, males had higher rates of deaths than females. The ratio of deaths to hospitalisations by race and gender increased with increasing age. In each age group, this ratio was highest among black Africans and lowest among whites.Conclusions. The study revealed the heterogeneous nature of COVID-19 impacts in SA. Existing socioeconomic inequalities appear to shape COVID-19 impacts, with a disproportionate effect on black Africans and marginalised and low socioeconomic groups. These differential impacts call for considered attention to mitigating the health disparities among black Africans.

Profile and outcomes of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 at a tertiary institution hospital in Ghana

Background: In high-income countries, mortality related to hospitalized patients with the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is approximately 4-5%. However, data on COVID-19 admissions from sub-Saharan Africa are scanty. Objective: To describe the clinical profile and determinants of outcomes of patients with confirmed COVID-19 admitted at a hospital in Ghana. Methods: A prospective study involving 25 patients with real time polymerase chain reaction confirmed COVID-19 admitted to the treatment centre of the University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana from 1st June to 27th July, 2020. They were managed and followed up for outcomes. Data were analysed descriptively, and predictors of mortality assessed using a multivariate logistic regression modelling. Results: The mean age of the patients was 59.3 ± 20.6 years, and 14 (56%) were males. The main symptoms at presentation were breathlessness (68%) followed by fever (56%). The cases were categorized as mild (6), moderate (6), severe (10) and critical (3). Hypertension was the commonest comorbidity present in 72% of patients. Medications used in patient management included dexamethasone (68%), azithromycin (96%), and hydroxychloroquine (4%). Five of 25 cases died (Case fatality ratio 20%). Increasing age and high systolic blood pressure were associated with mortality. Conclusion: Case fatality in this sample of hospitalized COVID-19 patients was high. Thorough clinical assessment, severity stratification, aggressive management of underlying co-morbidities and standardized protocols incountry might improve outcomes

Costs incurred by caregivers of under-five inpatients with community-acquired pneumonia at a university hospital in south-western Ethiopia

Background: Pneumonia is one of the commonest diseases among children in Ethiopia resulting in deaths and hospitalisations. The objective of the current study was to determine the cost incurred by caregivers of under-five children with community-acquired pneumonia admitted to the paediatric ward of Jimma University Specialized Hospital, south-western Ethiopia.Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 01 January to 28 February 2017, through interviews with caregivers. Data on costs incurred before hospital visit, direct medical and non-medical costs, and indirect costs incurred by caregivers of the children were collected. The collected data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23.Results: Among the 120 caregivers in the study, a median total cost of 304.5 Ethiopian birr (13.22 USD) was reported. This was mostly contributed by indirect costs associated with earnings lost by caregivers related to travel and stay at hospital with the children. Factors, including permanent residence, family size, hospital stay, wealth index, education and major occupation, were found to have statistically significant association with the level of cost incurred by caregivers.Conclusion: This study identified that a significant level of cost is incurred by caregivers of the children in the hospital, a majority of which was contributed by the lost earnings because of the time spent at the hospital with the children

Chronic lung disease and a history of tuberculosis (post-tuberculosis lung disease): Clinical features and in-hospital outcomes in a resource-limited setting with a high HIV burden

Background. Many patients with previous pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) continue to experience respiratory symptoms long after completion of tuberculosis (TB) therapy, often resulting in numerous hospital visits and admissions.Objectives. To describe the profile of patients with chronic lung disease (CLD) with or without a history of PTB, and their in-hospital outcomes. Methods. We conducted a retrospective review of patients with CLD admitted with respiratory symptoms to Dora Nginza Hospital, Port Elizabeth, South Africa, from 1 April 2016 to 31 October 2016. These patients were divided into two groups: CLD with a history of PTB (CLD-TB) and CLD without a history of PTB. Patients with current culture-positive TB were excluded. Baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes (duration of hospitalisation and in-hospital mortality) were compared between the two groups.Results. During the study period, a total of 4 884 patients were admitted and 242 patients received a diagnosis of CLD. In the CLD patient group, 173 had CLD-TB and 69 had no history of PTB. Patients with CLD-TB presented with respiratory symptoms a median of 41 months (interquartile range (IQR) 101) after completion of TB therapy. CLD-TB patients were predominantly male (59.5%), and compared with patients with no history of PTB were more likely to be HIV-positive (49.7% v. 8.7%; p=0.001) and had had more frequent hospital admissions before the current admission (median 2.0 (IQR 2.0) v. 0; p=0.001) and longer hospital stays (median 5 days (IQR 7) v. 2 (4); p=0.002). However, there was no statistically significant difference in in-hospital mortality between the two groups (17.3% v. 10.1%; p=0.165).Conclusions. In patients with CLD, a history of PTB is associated with numerous hospital admissions and longer hospital stays but not with increased in-hospital mortality. TB therefore continues to be a public health burden long after cure of active disease