Revitalizing neurology practice: integrating health humanities, neurobiology, and digital innovation / Revitalizando a prática em neurologia: integrando as humanidades em saúde, neurobiologia e inovação digital

Rapid changes in medical education are being fueled by advancements in science, technology, and societal structures. However, the traditional medical curriculum often struggles to keep pace with the evolving demands of medical practice in light of these advancements. Neurology presents distinctive challenges in modern medicine, requiring innovative solutions to improve patient care and support the well-being of healthcare providers. This essay delves into the intricate issues encountered by neurologists, such as the diminishing interpersonal connections in the medical field and the prevalent issue of burnout among professionals, exacerbated by outdated educational programs. This research advocates for a comprehensive approach to enhancing neurology practice through the perspectives of Medical Humanities (MH) and neurobiology, within the evolving realm of Neurohumanities. By integrating stateof-the-art neurobiological findings, MH/Neurohumanities, and a focus on empathy, the article proposes practical strategies to rejuvenate clinical practice and bolster the resilience of neurology practitioners. Furthermore, it underscores the untapped potential of artificial intelligence and machine learning while examining how the digital ecosystem could revolutionize neurology medical education. Grounded in evidence-based research and practical insights, this article offers valuable guidance for navigating the complexities of contemporary neurology practice and cultivating a workforce of healthcare professionals who possess both technological acumen and compassion.

Mudanças rápidas na educação médica estão sendo impulsionadas pelos avanços na ciência, tecnologia e estruturas sociais. No entanto, o currículo médico tradicional frequentemente luta para acompanhar as exigências em constante evolução da prática médica diante desses avanços. A neurologia apresenta desafios distintos na medicina moderna, exigindo soluções inovadoras para melhorar o cuidado ao paciente e apoiar o bemestar dos profissionais de saúde. Este ensaio explora as questões complexas enfrentadas pelos neurologistas, como a diminuição das conexões interpessoais no campo médico e o problema prevalente do esgotamento entre os profissionais, exacerbado por programas educacionais desatualizados. Esta pesquisa defende uma abordagem abrangente para aprimorar a prática da neurologia por meio das perspectivas das Humanidades Médicas (HM) e da neurobiologia, dentro do campo em evolução das Neuro- Humanidades. Ao integrar descobertas neurobiológicas de ponta, HM/Neuro-Humanidades e um foco na empatia, o artigo propõe estratégias práticas para rejuvenescer a prática clínica e fortalecer a resiliência dos profissionais de neurologia. Além disso, destaca o potencial inexplorado da inteligência artificial e da aprendizagem de máquina ao examinar como o ecossistema digital poderia revolucionar a educação médica em neurologia. Fundamentado em pesquisas baseadas em evidências e insights práticos, este artigo oferece orientações valiosas para navegar pelas complexidades da prática contemporânea da neurologia e cultivar uma força de trabalho de profissionais de saúde que possuam tanto acuidade tecnológica quanto compaixão.

Avaliação da qualidade de sono e ansiedade em profissionais e estudantes da saúde no contexto da pandemia pela covid-19 / Evaluación de la calidad del sueño y la ansiedad en profesionales y estudiantes de la salud en el contexto de la pandemia de COVID-19 / Assessment of sleep quality and anxiety in healthcare professionals and students in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic

Introdução: Na pandemia desencadeada pela COVID-19, o desenvolvimento progressivo de sintomas de ansiedade e a má qualidade do sono devem ser investigados em profissionais e estudantes da área da saúde para o adequado manejo. Objetivo: Identificar a prevalência de problemas de sono e sintomas ansiosos em profissionais e estudantes da saúde, e analisar o efeito de variáveis sociodemográficas-clínicas na ansiedade e sono dessa população.Metodologia: Neste estudo transversal de caráter quantitativo aplicou-se um formulário online a 3.337 profissionais e estudantes da saúde do Brasil participantes de um congresso virtual, contendo 51 perguntas subdivididas em três categorias: Perfil sociodemográfico-clínico, Escala de Sono de Jenkins e Inventário de Ansiedade de BECK.Resultados: Dentre os participantes, 81,4% eram estudantes da área da saúde e 12,8% profissionais de saúde. Os achados obtidos indicam que 41% dos participantes apresentaram problemas de sono muito frequentes e 46,6% sinais de ansiedade moderada a grave. Houve associação estatisticamente significativa entre as variáveis sociodemográficas-clínicas e os questionários validados de sono e ansiedade. Conclusão: Essa pesquisa identificou importante prevalência de problemasde sono e sintomas ansiosos em profissionais e estudantes da saúde, sendo primordial a identificação precoce dessas alterações para um manejo efetivo (AU).

Introduction: In the pandemic triggered by COVID-19, the progressive development of anxiety symptoms and poor sleep quality should be investigated in healthcare professionals and students for proper management.Objective: To identify the prevalence of sleep problems and anxious symptoms in healthcare professionals and students, and to analyze the effect of sociodemographic-clinical variables on anxiety and sleep in this population. Methodology: In this cross-sectional quantitative study, an online form was applied to 3,337 healthcare professionals and students from Brazil participating in a virtual congress, containing 51 questions subdivided into three categories: Sociodemographic-clinical profile, Jenkins Sleep Scale and BECK Anxiety Inventory.Results: Among the participants, 81.4% were healthcare students and 12.8% were healthcare professionals. The findings indicate that 41% of the participants had very frequent sleep problems and 46.6% showed signs of moderate to severe anxiety. There was a statistically significant association between the sociodemographic-clinical variables and the validated sleep and anxiety questionnaires. Conclusion:This study identified a high prevalence of sleep problems and anxiety symptoms among healthcare professionals and students, and early identification of these alterations is essential for effective management (AU).

Introducción: En la pandemia desencadenada por el COVID-19, el desarrollo progresivo de síntomas de ansiedad y la mala calidad del sueño deben ser investigados en profesionales y estudiantes de la salud para su adecuado manejo. Objetivo: Identificar la prevalencia de problemas de sueño y síntomas ansiosos en profesionales y estudiantes de la salud, y analizar el efecto de las variables sociodemográficas-clínicas sobre la ansiedad y el sueño en esta población. Metodología:En este estudio transversal y cuantitativo, se aplicó un formulario línea 3.337 profesionales y estudiantes de la salud de Brasil que participaron en un congreso virtual, conteniendo 51 preguntas subdivididas en tres categorías: perfil sociodemográfico-clínico, Escala de Sueño de Jenkins e Inventario de Ansiedad de BECK. Resultados: Entre los participantes, 81,4% eran estudiantes de salud y 12,8% profesionales de la salud. Los resultados indican que el 41% de los participantes tenía problemas de sueño muy frecuentes y el 46,6% mostraba signos de ansiedad de moderada a grave. Hubo una asociación estadísticamentesignificativa entre las variables sociodemográficas-clínicas y los cuestionarios validados de sueño y ansiedad. Conclusión:Este estudio identificó una alta prevalencia de problemas de sueño y síntomas de ansiedad en profesionales de la salud y estudiantes, y la identificación precoz de estas alteraciones es esencial para un manejo eficaz (AU).

Proporção de casos nosocomiais de COVID-19 no Brasil: análise de seus fatores associados em 1.631.47 registros de 2020 a 2022 / Proporción de casos nosocomiales de COVID-19 en Brasil: análisis de sus factores asociados en 1.631.47 registros de 2020 a 2022 / Proportionof nosocomial cases of COVID-19 in Brazil: analysisof1.631.47 case records from 2020 to 2022

Introdução: Infecções nosocomiais, adquiridas após a internação hospitalar, são o evento adverso mais comum que ameaça a saúde dos pacientes hospitalizados, sendo a pneumonia, incluindo a causada pelo SARS-Cov-2, responsável por mais de 80% das infecções nosocomiais. A pandemia declarada pela OMS em março de 2020 reflete o rápido aumento de casos, impulsionado pela disseminação do vírus através de gotículas e aerossóis. A transmissão nosocomial do SARS-Cov-2 foi observada desde o início do surto em Wuhan, representando um desafio adicional na qualidade de vida dos pacientes. Estudos internacionais em hospitais reportam incidências de infecção nosocomial por COVID-19 entre 11% e 44%.Objetivo: Identificar a proporção de infecção nosocomial por SARS-COV-2 no Brasil entre março de 2020 até dezembro de 2022.Metodologia:Trata-se de um estudo analítico, retrospectivo, de corte transversal, sobre a proporção de infecção nosocomial por Sars-Cov-2 no Brasil, através de dados secundários oriundos do Sistema de Informação da Vigilância Epidemiológica da Gripe. No presente estudo a variável dependente analisada foi a proporção de infecção nosocomial por Sars-cov-2. Como variáveis independentes exploratórias foram utilizadas: faixa etária, sexo, comorbidades e macrorregião de residência. Resultados: O estudo identificou uma proporção de casos nosocomiais de 2,58%, sendo maior no terceiro ano da pandemia 2022 (5,5%) na região Norte (7,57%), entre os indivíduos de 18-59 anos de idade (6,93%)Conclusões: Este estudo sobre casos nosocomiais de COVID-19 no Brasil revela uma proporção de 2,58% entre 2020 e 2022, com associações identificadas em relação à região, idade e comorbidades. Diferenças em relação a estudos internacionais sugerem questões metodológicas específicas. Essa pesquisa é de importância crítica, visto ser de abrangência nacional com grande amplitude, e estabelece uma base sólida para futuros estudos epidemiológicos (AU).

Introduction: Nosocomial infections, acquired after hospital admission, are the most common adverse events threatening patient health, with pneumonia, including that caused by SARS-CoV-2, responsible for over 80% of nosocomial infections. The pandemic declared by the WHO in March 2020 reflects the rapid rise in cases driven by the virus's spread through droplets and aerosols. Nosocomial transmission of SARS-CoV-2 has been observed since the outbreak's onset in Wuhan, posing an additional challenge to patient quality of life. International hospital studies report nosocomial COVID-19 infection rates between 11% and 44%. Objective: Identifying the proportion of nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 infection in Brazil between March 2020 and December 2022.Methodology:This is an analytical, retrospective, cross-sectional study on the proportion of nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 infection in Brazil, using secondary data from the Influenza Epidemiological Surveillance Information System. In this study, the analyzed dependent variable was the proportionof nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 infection. The exploratory independent variables included: age group, gender, comorbidities, and macro-region of residence.Results:The study identified a proportion of nosocomial cases of 2.58%, with a higher proportion in the third year of the pandemic, 2022 (5.5%) in the North region (7.57%), among individuals aged 18-59 years (6.93%). Conclusions: This study on nosocomial cases of COVID-19 in Brazil reveals a proportion of 2.58% between 2020 and 2022, with associations identified regarding region, age, and comorbidities. Differences compared to international studies suggest specific methodological issues. This research is of critical importance, given its national scope and broad coverage, and establishes a solid foundation for future epidemiological studies (AU).

Introducción: Las infecciones nosocomiales, adquiridas tras la hospitalización, son el evento adverso más común que amenaza la salud de los pacientes hospitalizados, siendo la neumonía, incluida la causada por el SARS-Cov-2, la responsable de más del 80% de las infecciones. La pandemia declarada por la OMS en marzo de 2020 refleja el rápido aumento de casos, impulsado por la propagación del virus a través de gotitas y aerosoles. La transmisión nosocomial del SRAS-Cov-2 se ha observado desde el inicio del brote en Wuhan, lo que supone un reto adicional para la calidad de vida de los pacientes. Estudios internacionales realizados en hospitales informan de incidencias de infecciones nosocomiales por COVID-19 de entre el 11% y el 44%. Objetivo: Identificar la proporción de infección nosocomial por SARS-CoV-2 en Brasil entre marzo de 2020 y diciembre de 2022. Metodología: Se trata de un estudio analítico, retrospectivo y transversal sobre la proporción de infección nosocomial por SARS-CoV -2 en Brasil, utilizando datos secundarios del Sistema de Información de Vigilancia Epidemiológica de Influenza. La variable dependiente analizada fue la proporción de infección nosocomial por SARS-CoV-2. Como variables independientes exploratorias se utilizaron: grupo de edad, sexo, comorbilidades y macrorregión de residencia. Resultados:El estudio identificó una proporción de casos nosocomiales del 2,58%, siendo mayor en el tercer año de la pandemia de 2022 (5,5%) en la región Norte (7,57%), entre individuos de 18 a 59 años (6,93%). Conclusiones:Este estudio de casos de COVID-19 hospitalizados en Brasil revela una proporción de 2,58% entre 2020 y 2022, con asociaciones identificadas en relación a la región, edad y comorbilidades. Las disparidades en relación a estudios internacionales sugieren la presencia de cuestiones metodológicas específicas. Esta investigación es de extrema importancia para orientar estrategias preventivas y mejorar el control de las infecciones hospitalarias (AU).

Cooperación entre médicos del departamento de emergencias y dermatólogos por telemedicina / Cooperation between emergency department physicians and dermatologists via telemedicine

Las intercurrencias dermatológicas agudas son un motivo de consulta frecuente a las centrales de emergencias, y generalmente los médicos de atención primaria se ocupan del primer nivel de atención. Puede ser necesaria una interconsulta con expertos, aunque no siempre estén disponibles. Ante la necesidad de facilitar dicha interacción a distancia, en Julio 2022 se implementó una herramienta de teledermatología en un hospital de alta complejidad en Buenos Aires, Argentina. Este servicio se limitó a días hábiles con horario restringido, permitiendo la comunicación entre médicos del departamento de emergencias y dermatólogos, a través de WhatsApp institucional. El dermatólogo podía verificar datos de salud relacionados al paciente (ej: comorbilidades y medicación crónica) mediante revisión de la historia clínica electrónica, para decidir sobre un plan de acción. Se evaluó la perspectiva de los usuarios a través de un formulario electrónico tras 3 meses de implementación. Los resultados evidenciaron que la mayoría (85%) de los profesionales conocía la herramienta, y el 57% la había usado al menos una vez. Se obtuvo una mediana de 9 puntos (de una escala de Likert del 1 al 10) sobre la recomendación hacia otro profesional. El teletriage dermatológico resultó beneficioso y fue aceptado, tanto por médicos de guardia como por especialistas. Ante las demoras en la atención ambulatoria, ha resultado una alternativa útil para evitar derivaciones innecesarias y/o acelerar aquellas que verdaderamente lo ameritan. Sin embargo, representa una forma de comunicación informal desde el punto de vista de almacenamiento de datos. Será necesario reflexionar sobre estos tópicos pendientes de esta experiencia asistencial como legalidad, seguridad y confidencialidad (AU)

Acute skin conditions are a frequent reason for consultation in emergency departments, and primary care physicians generally handle them. They might require referrals to experts, who are not always readily available. Recognizing the need to facilitate such interactions remotely, a teledermatology triage tool was implemented in July 2022 at a high-complexity hospital in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The service was limited to business days with restricted hours, enabling communication between emergency department physicians and dermatologists through institutional WhatsApp. Dermatologists could access patient-related health data (e.g., comorbidities and chronic medication) through the electronic medical record to determine an appropriate course of action. The perspective of users was evaluated through an electronic questionnaire after three months of application. Results showed that most professionals were aware of the tool (85%), and 57% used it at least once. The median rating for recommending the tool to other professionals was 9 points (on a Likert scale from 1 to 10). Dermatological teletriage proved beneficial and was well-received by emergency physicians and specialists. In the face of delays in outpatient care, it has been a useful alternative to avoid unnecessary referrals and expedite those that are warranted. However, it represents an informal method of communication with regard to data storage. It will be necessary to rethink on improvements in pending topics such as legal limitations, security, and confidentiality of this healthcare experience (AU)

Repercussões na saúde mental de profissionais da saúde de um hospital público do Recife durante a pandemia de COVID-19 / Repercussions on the mental health of health professionals at a public hospital in Recife during the COVID-19 pandemic

Objetivo: analisar fatores associados à ansiedade e depressão em profissionais de saúde que prestam assistência a pacientes com COVID-19 em um hospital público de Recife. Método: estudo transversal, com aplicação de questionário online contendo variáveis sociodemográficas e relacionadas ao trabalho e instrumento escala de depressão, ansiedade e estresse. Realizadas análises descritivas das variáveis independentes e análise bivariada usando regressão linear da relação entre a variável dependente e das variáveis independentes. Resultados: 77 profissionais responderam ao questionário. A fisioterapia foi a categoria profissional associada à ansiedade, e o setor de atuação no COVID- 19 e o tempo de exercício foram associados à depressão. Conclusão: são imprescindíveis as ações de promoção da saúde mental desses profissionais, considerando, principalmente, os impactos da pandemia de COVID-19.

Aim: This article aimed to analyze factors associated with anxiety and depression in health professionals who provide care to patients with COVID-19 in Recife public hospital. Method: cross-sectional study, with the application of an online questionnaire containing sociodemographic and work-related variables and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale instrument. Descriptive analyses of the independent variables and bivariate analysis were performed using linear regression of the relationship between the dependent and the independent variables. Results: 77 professionals answered the questionnaire. Physiotherapy was the professional category associated with anxiety, and the sector of activity in COVID-19 and exercise time were associated with depression. Conclusion: actions to promote the mental health of these professionals are essential, mainly considering the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Importância da interação entre comunidade e graduando, para uma formação humanizada: relato de experiência / Importance of interaction between community and undergraduate, for humanized training: experience report

Durante a vivência acadêmica, as universidades conectam seus futuros profissionais para assistência à comunidade, tendo em vista uma formação centrada na humanização dos pacientes. O programa de monitoria para a clínica interdisciplinar no tratamento de feridas, do Centro Universitário do Espírito Santo (UNESC), não se limita apenas ao campo teórico, abrangendo muito a prática com o corpo social e possibilita essa experiência com a comunidade de forma humanizada. Objetivo: Relatar a inter-relação com a sociedade durante o tempo de monitoria, como isso é importante para a capacitação de excelência, e também como essa humanização contribui para tratamento e evolução do paciente. Metodologia: O estudo consiste em um relato de experiência de um dos monitores da clínica de feridas durante um semestre de monitoria, apresentando caráter descritivo. Resultados e Discussão: Durante a vivência notou-se o quão importante é enxergar esse lado humano do paciente, não se preocupando apenas com suas queixas. Agindo desse modo, teve como resultado pacientes mais felizes, engajados com o tratamento e gostando de estar naquele ambiente, por mais doloroso que fosse o real motivo. Considerações finais: É vital para o graduando aprender a lapidar sua abordagem com o paciente, atuando de maneira holística. Essa interação entre universidade e corpo social é de fundamental importância para desenvolver profissionais que saiam ainda mais capacitados para o mercado de trabalho, principalmente quando se trata de profissionais da área da saúde, possibilitando mesclar assistência e atendimento, com o processo de ensino-aprendizado das práticas de saúde.(AU)

During their academic experience, universities connect their future professionals to assist the community, with a view to training centred on the humanization of patients. The monitoring program for the interdisciplinary wound care clinic at the Centro Universitário do Espírito Santo (UNESC) is not just limited to the theoretical field, but also encompasses a lot of practice with the social body and enables this experience with the community in a humanized way. Objective: To report on the interrelationship with society during the monitoring period, how important this is for the training of excellence, and also how this humanization contributes to the treatment and evolution of the patient. METHODOLOGY: The study consists of a report on the experience of one of the wound clinic monitors during a semester of monitoring, and is descriptive in nature. Results and Discussion: During the experience, we noticed how important it is to see the human side of the patient, not just worrying about their complaints. Acting in this way resulted in happier patients, engaged with the treatment and enjoying being in that environment, no matter how painful the real reason.Final considerations: It is vital for undergraduates to learn how to refine their approach to patients, acting in a holistic way. This interaction between the university and society is of fundamental importance for developing professionals who are even more qualified for the job market, especially when it comes to health professionals, making it possible to merge assistance and care with the teaching-learning process of health practices.(AU)

Durante su experiencia académica, las universidades vinculan a sus futuros profesionales con la asistencia a la comunidad, con vistas a una formación centrada en la humanización de los pacientes. El programa de acompañamiento de la clínica interdisciplinaria de cuidado de heridas del Centro Universitario do Espírito Santo (UNESC) no se limita apenas al campo teórico, sino que abarca mucha práctica con el cuerpo social y posibilita esta experiencia con la comunidad de forma humanizada. Objetivo: Informar sobre la interrelación con la sociedad durante el período de seguimiento, cuán importante es esto para la formación de excelencia, y también cómo esta humanización contribuye al tratamiento y evolución del paciente. Metodología: El estudio consiste en un informe sobre la experiencia de uno de los monitores de la clínica de heridas durante un semestre de monitorización, y es de naturaleza descriptiva. RESULTADOS Y DISCUSIÓN: Durante la experiencia, nos dimos cuenta de lo importante que es ver el lado humano del paciente, no sólo preocuparse por sus quejas. Actuar de esta manera resultó en pacientes más felices, comprometidos con el tratamiento y disfrutando de estar en ese ambiente, por más doloroso que sea el motivo real.Consideraciones finales: Es fundamental que los estudiantes universitarios aprendan a perfeccionar su abordaje con los pacientes, actuando de forma holística. Esta interacción entre la universidad y la sociedad es de fundamental importancia para el desarrollo de profesionales aún más cualificados para el mercado de trabajo, especialmente cuando se trata de profesionales de la salud, haciendo posible la fusión de la asistencia y el cuidado con el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje de las prácticas de salud.(AU)

Analysis of Healthcare-associated Infections before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in a Colombian hospital

Introduction: Healthcare-associated infections pose a significant challenge, contributing to hospital morbidity and mortality. Objective: To describe the behavior of Healthcare Associated Infections before and during the pandemic reported to a high-complexity health institution in Colombia. Material and Methods: In our retrospective observational study on Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs), we analyzed data from all in-patients diagnosed with HAIs between 2018 and 2020. This included clinical, demographic, microbiological, and microbial susceptibility information collected from the Committee on Nosocomial Infections' prospective database. Data from 391 isolates were obtained using Whonet software for antimicrobial resistance surveillance. Results: We found 504 cases of HAIs (2018-2020) with an overall in-hospital infection rate of 2.55/1000 patient-days. The median age for pediatric patients was 5 years, and for adults, 56 years, with 57% male. The leading admission diagnoses were oncologic disease complications (31%). Bacteremia had a 30-day mortality rate of 13%, predominantly catheter-associated (37%). Gram-negative bacilli, notably Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, represented 58% cases of HAI. Discussion: The critical need for specific interventions and antimicrobial management to control HAIs, especially given the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, is highlighted. Conclusions: This is the first report on HAIs incidence at a tertiary hospital in Bucaramanga, Santander (Colombia). Bacteremia was predominant; 75% of HAIs patients had comorbidities. Gram-negative bacilli prevailed; a notable rise in ICU respiratory infections occurred during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. Resistance to cephalosporins and carbapenems was prevalent.

Psychological distress among South African healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has placed immense pressure on healthcare workers (HCWs). Objectives: This study sought to find the prevalence and factors associated with psychological distress among HCWs in South Africa during the beginning phases of COVID-19 and make relevant recommendations. Method: The survey was administered online through a data-free platform. Data were benchmarked to the national population of over 500 000 healthcare professionals in South Africa. Multiple logistic regressions were used to determine association between psychological distress and potential explanatory variables. Results: A total of 7607 healthcare professionals participated in the study (1760 nurses, 2843 medical practitioners and 3004 other healthcare professionals). Half of the nurses, 41% of medical practitioners and 47% of other healthcare professionals were classified as psychologically distressed. Those who were of older age, provided with well-being support services and having a positive outlook on the healthcare system were significantly less likely to be distressed. Being female medical practitioners and female other healthcare professions, requesting routine counselling, being concerned about not having enough leave and that their life insurance policy did not cover COVID-19 were more likely to be distressed. Conclusion: Psychological well-being of HCWs in South Africa is at risk. We recommend that psychological distress of HCWs be routinely assessed and that routine counselling, well-being support services, appropriate hazardous leave and insurance be provided to all HCWs. Contribution: This study adds to the literature on the psychological distress faced by HCWs in South Africa during COVID-19.

Factors inhibiting and enabling performance-based financing in health care delivery across low and middle-income countries: a scoping review

Background: Emerging financing strategies in the health sector have been developed to improve the impact of investments and enhance healthcare outcomes. One promising approach is Results-based Financing, which establishes a connection between financial incentives and pre-established performance targets. This innovative approach holds the potential to strengthenhealthcare delivery and strengthen overall healthcare systems.Aim:The scoping review endeavored to systematically delineate the body of evidence pertaining tofacilitators and barriers to the implementation of performance-based financing within the realm of healthcare provision in low-and middle-income nations.Methods:The review used Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and a Meta-Analysis extension for Scoping Reviews checklist to select, appraise, and report the findings. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases and grey literature published between January 2000 and March 2022. We conducted the abstract screening with two independent reviewers. We also performed full-article screening. We used the six methodological frameworks proposed by Arksey and O'Malley. The results were thematically analyzed.Results:Of the 1071 searched studies, 34 met the eligibility criteria. 41% of the studies were descriptive, 26% cross-sectional, 18% trial, and 15% cohort studies. The enabling and inhibiting factors of performance-based financing in healthcaredelivery have been identified. Moreover, the review revealed that performance-based financing's influence on service delivery is context-specific.Conclusion:The facilitators and impediments to the effectiveness of performance-based financing in enhancing service delivery are contingent upon a holistic comprehension of the contextual factors, meticulous design, and efficient execution. Factors such as the level of care facilities, presence of community-based initiatives, stakeholder involvement, and participatory design emerge as key facilitators. Conversely, barriers such as communication obstacles, inadequacies in the PBF models, and deficiencies in the healthcare workforce are recognized as inhibitors. By harnessing the insights derived from a multitude of evidence incorporated in this scrutiny, stakeholders can deftly navigate the intricacies of performance-based financing, while also considering the prospective areas for further exploration and research

Mental health services in Gauteng, South Africa: A proxy evaluation using pharmaceutical data

Background: South African legislation advocates for equitable access to mental healthcare services integrated into general healthcare settings. Mental, neurological, and substance use (MNS) disorders are often comorbid. Pharmacoepidemiology provides indirect evidence of service provision for conditions amenable to medicine treatment. Aim: The study aims to evaluate medicine procurement for MNS disorders at different service levels in the health system. Setting: The Public health sector, Gauteng province formed the setting for the study. Method: A secondary analysis of the Gauteng pharmaceutical database was conducted using Anatomic Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) and defined daily dose (DDD) methodology. Anatomic Therapeutic Chemical classes of medicines for MNS disorders were included. Defined daily doses and costs were calculated per 1000 population served by each facility and service level. Statistical comparisons were made using chi-square testing. Results: General healthcare settings accounted for 90% (R118 638 248) and specialised hospitals for 10% (R13 685 032) of expenditure on medicines for MNS disorders, procuring 94% (n = 49 442 474) and 6% (n = 3 311 528) of DDDs, respectively. Although district clinics procured 60% of DDDs, they procured the least per 1000 population served, whereas district hospitals procured the most. For almost all ATC classes, procurement differed significantly between municipalities at every service level and between specialised hospitals. Conclusion: In Gauteng province, most medicines for MNS disorders are procured by general healthcare services, but access to care may not be equitable. While population coverage at district clinics appears low, district hospitals may experience the greatest care burden. Research regarding quality of care at each service level is recommended. Contribution: This study provides insight into service provision for MNS disorders.

Prevalence, pattern and factors associated with workplace violence against healthcare workers in Nigeria: A systematic review

Objective:This study aimed to describe the prevalence, pattern, and predictors of WPVagainst HCWs in Nigeria. Methods:Asystematic review was conducted using pre-defined keywords. The review was performed in line with the PRISMAguidelines on PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science. The population, intervention, comparator, and outcome (PICO) elements for this study were as follows: Population:Nigerian Healthcare workers; Intervention: Exposure to WPV; Comparator: Non-exposure to WPV; Outcome: Mental and Physical health outcomes of exposure to WPV. Of the 18,140 articles retrieved, 15 cross-sectional studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. In all, 3,245 HCWs were included, and consisted majorly of nurses and doctors. Results:The overall prevalence of WPV(Physical > Verbal/Psychological > Sexual) against HCWs ranged between 39.1%-100%. The predictors of WPVare younger ages (AOR = 2.513, p = 0.012), working in psychiatric unit (AOR = 11.182, p = 0.006), and increased frequency of interaction with patients, and mostly perpetrated by patients and their relatives. Many health facilities lacked a formal reporting system and policies to protect HCWs from WPV. Conclusion:WPVagainst HCWs is a public health problem in Nigeria with dire implications on HCWs; the victims, and the aggressor. Administrators of health facilities should design protocols for WPVreporting, recognition, and management. Patient and 'relatives' education on the 'facilities' policy against WPVshould be undertaken, while orientation sessions on the risk factors for HCWs are scheduled.

SARS-CoV-2 antibody level one month after COVID-19 infection in healthcare workers in Pudong New Area of Shanghai / 上海预防医学

ObjectiveTo investigate the levels of serum antibodies against novel coronavirus （SARS-CoV-2） in healthcare workers after one month of natural infection， to explore the influencing factors and their correlations with the levels of antibodies， and to provide reference for strengthening the protection of healthcare workers and preventive intervention in Pudong New Area in Shanghai. MethodsVenous blood samples were collected from 1 102 medical staff in Pudong hospitals one month after infection. The serum levels of new coronavirus specific antibodies IgM， IgG and neutralizing antibodies were detected by chemiluminescent immunoassay. The information of gender， age， position， infection severity， vaccination， basic diseases and use of immunosuppressants were obtained by questionnaire to explore the influencing factors and their correlation with the antibody level. ResultsOne month after natural infection， 99.00% （1 091/1 102） of the subjects were found to be positive for IgG antibody against the new coronavirus， 17.79% （196/1 102） of the subjects were IgM antibody positive， and 99.00% （1 091/1 102） of the samples were positive for the neutralizing antibody. The level of antibody might be influenced by the severity of infection， the time of the last dose of vaccination， and the long-term use of immunosuppressants. The more severe the disease， the stronger the neutralizing antibody response. The antibody level in the people who received the final dose of vaccine within 6 months was higher than that of the people who received the vaccine 6 months ago， and the difference was statistically significant. The antibody levels were low in the subjects who received long-term immunosuppressants. ConclusionThe specific IgM， IgG and neutralizing antibody were found， one month after infection， in the medical workers in Pudong New Area， Shanghai， and the antibody titers were high， which had a good protective effect. The antibody level of the people who were vaccinated within 6 months was higher， it is recommended that people who receive the last vacination more than 6 months should be re-vaccinated with the booster vaccine， to improve the autoimmunity against the novel coronavirus.

Severity of COVID-19 reinfection among healthcare workers in a grade A tertiary hospital in Shanghai by the end of 2022 / 上海预防医学

ObjectiveTo describe the epidemic characteristics of COVID-19 after policy adjustment from “Category B notifiable disease with category A management” to “Category B notifiable disease with category B management”， and to explore the protective effect of previous infection with SARS-CoV-2 on common symptoms of reinfection. MethodsHealthcare workers infected with SARS-CoV-2 in a grade A tertiary hospital in Shanghai were included in the study from December 4， 2022 to January 11， 2023. Data on demographic characteristics， clinical symptoms， medical history， and COVID-19 vaccination history were collected. We determined the epidemiological curve and characteristics， and then compared the difference in the severity of clinical symptoms between primary and reinfection subjects. ResultsA total of 2 704 cases were included in the study， of which 45 had reinfection， 605 （22.4%）were males， 608 （22.5%）were doctors， 1 275 （47.2%） were nurses， and 2 351 （86.9%） received ≥3 doses of COVID-19 vaccination. The average age of these healthcare workers was （34.9±9.1） years old. The number of cases with mild/moderate illness， asymptomatic infection， fever， headache， dry cough， expectoration， and chest tightness were 2 704 （100.0%）， 92 （3.4%）， 2 385 （88.2%）， 2 066 （76.4%）， 1 642 （60.7%）， 1 807 （66.8%）， and 439 （16.2%）， respectively. Reinfection was a protective factor for fever （OR=0.161， P<0.001）， headache （OR=0.320， P<0.001）， and peak body temperature （β=-0.446， P<0.001）. ConclusionFollowing the COVID-19 policy adjustment as a category B notifiable disease， healthcare workers at a grade A tertiary hospital in Shanghai predominantly experiences mild to moderate COVID-19 symptoms. Reinfection results in milder clinical manifestations， with a lower proportion of being asymptomatic.

Ethical Issues in the Development of Smart Healthcare / 中国医学伦理学

Smart healthcare is the outcome of integration and application of the internet, Internet of things (IOT), big data analysis and artificial intelligence (AI) in the medical field. Smart healthcare has been developed rapidly in China. However, smart healthcare has both advantages and risks, thus, it faces challenges and ethical issues in practice. Technological restrictions of smart healthcare increase the risk of privacy disclosure and delayed treatment. Besides, it also induce some ethical issues.Smart healthcare turns the "justice" issue of regional equity into the population equity of medical benefits. In addition, balancing between humanities and science technology should be considered. Smart healthcare should follow the basic ethical principles and the experience of clinical medical ethics. To give full play to the advantages of smart healthcare, the ethical challenges during its development must be regulated at the legal level, and simultaneously governed through ethical norms and guidance.

Improving the Waiting Time in Outpatient Clinics Using Lean Approach in Hospital: A Systematic Review

@#Introduction: The use of the lean approach in healthcare has rapidly gained popularity globally, although this approach was more routinely used in the manufacturing sector as opposed to health. Besides, recent studies confirm the suitability of the lean approach applications for improving the quality of medical care. This study aimed to determine the Lean approach’s capacity to improve the waiting time in outpatient clinics in hospitals. Methods: The systematic review approach was employed to help in the research procedures. Search databases used included Ovid, Google scholar, PubMed, MEDLINE, and archive. Besides, search terminologies such as the Lean approach, Hospital-implementation, waiting time, and patient flow were used to help identify sources that best suited the investigation process. Results: The review revealed that the lean approach is suitable for the reduction of waiting times as well as for improving efficiency in the clinic. The outcomes provide a basis for reducing the average waiting time within the hospital. Conclusion: This study recommended that healthcare facilities and departments should take a keen interest in implementing the Lean approaches, as they are crucial for reducing waiting time.

Ethnomedicinal uses of plants for various diseases in the remote areas of Changa Manga Forest, Pakistan / Usos etnomedicinais de plantas para várias doenças nas áreas remotas da Floresta Changa Manga, Paquistão

This study aims at reporting the indigenous knowledge of the medicinal flora from the inhabitants of surroundings of the World's largest artificial planted forest "Changa Manga", Pakistan. Data were collected by direct interviews and group meetings from 81 inhabitants including 32 local healers having information regarding the use of indigenous medicinal plants over a period of one year. Different statistical tools were applied to analyze the data including Frequency citation (FC), Relative frequency citation (RFC), Use Value, Factor of informants consensus and fidelity level. This study reported 73 plant species belonging to 37 plant families and 46 genera. The majority of plant species belong to compositae family. The most commonly used medicinal plants were P. hysterophorus L., P. dactylifera L., S. indicum L, P. harmala L., P. emblica L., and A. indica A.Juss. The greatest number of species was used to cure gastrointestinal disorders. The highest fidelity level (68.18%) was of E. helioscopia to cure gastrointestinal disorders. Maximum fresh uses (17) were reported by C. dactylon (L.) Pars. While the highest number of species reporting fresh uses in similar number was 13. In this study, five novel plants are being reported for the first time in Pakistan for their ethnomedicinal worth. Our data reflect unique usage of the medicinal plants in the study area. The statistical tools used in the study proved useful in pointing the most important and disease category specific plants. High use value plant and the new reported medicinal plants might prove an important source of the isolation of pharmacologically active compounds.

Este estudo tem como objetivo relatar o conhecimento indígena sobre a flora medicinal dos habitantes do entorno da maior floresta artificial plantada do mundo, a Changa Manga, no Paquistão. Os dados foram coletados por meio de entrevistas diretas e reuniões em grupo de 81 habitantes, incluindo 32 curandeiros locais, com informações sobre o uso de plantas medicinais indígenas durante o período de um ano. Diferentes ferramentas estatísticas foram aplicadas para analisar os dados, incluindo citação de frequência (FC), citação de frequência relativa (RFC), valor de uso, fator de consenso dos informantes e nível de fidelidade. Este estudo relatou 73 espécies de plantas pertencentes a 37 famílias de plantas e 46 gêneros. A maioria das espécies de plantas pertence à família Compositae. As plantas medicinais mais utilizadas foram P. hysterophorus L., P. dactylifera L., S. indicum L., P. harmala L., P. emblica L. e A. indica A. Juss. O maior número de espécies foi usado para curar distúrbios gastrointestinais. O maior nível de fidelidade (68,18%) foi de E. helioscopia para cura de distúrbios gastrointestinais. Os usos máximos em fresco (17) foram relatados por C. dactylon (L.) Pars. enquanto o maior número de espécies relatando usos frescos em número semelhante foi de 13. Neste estudo, cinco novas plantas estão sendo relatadas pela primeira vez no Paquistão por seu valor etnomedicinal. Nossos dados refletem o uso exclusivo das plantas medicinais na área de estudo. As ferramentas estatísticas utilizadas no estudo mostraram-se úteis para apontar as plantas mais importantes e específicas da categoria de doença. Plantas de alto valor de uso e as novas plantas medicinais relatadas podem ser uma importante fonte de isolamento de compostos farmacologicamente ativos.

Fatores de estresse e resiliência no acesso e utilização de serviços de saúde por travestis e mulheres transexuais no nordeste brasileiro / Stress and resilience factors in the access and utilization of health services by travestis and transgender women in northeast Brazil

Resumo O gênero é uma categoria social diretamente ligada à determinação da saúde, mas tem sido frequentemente limitado às categorias de masculino e feminino, invisibilizando demandas importantes de identidades que fogem ao binarismo, como no caso de identidade transgênero (travestis e transexuais). A teoria do estresse de minorias de gênero categoriza fatores de estresse e resiliência relevantes para explicar como as vivências ligadas ao gênero impactam de maneira desproporcional pessoas transgênero, especialmente em desfechos de saúde mental. Nesse contexto, este estudo analisa a relação entre acesso e uso de serviços de saúde e os fatores de estresse e resiliência de travestis e mulheres transexuais no interior do nordeste brasileiro. Foi conduzida uma pesquisa qualitativa em saúde: dados foram coletados por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas com cinco mulheres trans adultas, residentes da região do Cariri, Ceará. Observou-se homogeneidade no acesso à saúde, mas todas as entrevistadas enfrentaram situações de estresse durante a utilização. Identificaram-se fatores de resiliência que levam essa população a buscar cuidados de saúde fora do sistema de saúde, devido a suas dificuldades de uso. Portanto, evidencia-se a necessidade de discutir a amplitude e o progresso do processo transexualizador e a capacidade de aplicação da Política Nacional de Saúde Integral de Lésbicas, Gays, Bissexuais e Transgêneros no âmbito do Sistema Único de Saúde no interior do nordeste brasileiro.

Abstract Gender is a social category directly linked to health determination, but it has often been constrained to the categories of male and female, obscuring significant demands from identities that go beyond this binary framework, such as transgender identities (travestis and transsexuals). Gender minority stress is a theory that categorizes stress and resilience factors relevant to explaining how gender experiences disproportionately impact transgender individuals, particularly in mental health outcomes. Given this context, this study examines the relations between user access and use of health services and the stress and resilience factors of travestis and transgender women in northeastern Brazil. A qualitative health research was conducted with data collected by means of semi-structured interviews with five adult trans women residing in the Cariri region, Ceará state. Health access was homogeneous, yet all interviewees faced stress-inducing situations during service use. Resilience factors were identified, leading this population to seek healthcare outside the state system due to use challenges. These findings highlight the need to discuss the breadth and progress of gender affirming care and the applicability of the National Policy of Comprehensive Healthcare for LGBT individuals within the Brazilian National Health System in northeastern Brazil.

Surveillance system for Healthcare-associated endophthalmitis at state level in a middle-income country: preliminary results / Sistema de vigilância epidemiológica para endoftalmites em nível estadual em um país de renda média: resultados preliminares

ABSTRACT Purpose: To describe the implementation pro cess and the preliminary results of a surveillance system for healthcare-associated endophthalmitis. Methods: This is a case study of the implementation of a surveillance system for healthcare-associated endophthalmitis. The system for healthcare-associated endophthalmitis is a structured system that enables surveillance of cases of healthcare-associated endophthalmitis after intraocular procedures, developed and coordinated by the Division of Hospital Infection at the State Health Department, São Paulo, Brazil. The implementation process included a pilot phase, followed by a scaling-up phase. Data were reported monthly to the Division of Hospital Infection by participating healthcare facilities that performed intraocular procedures in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, from September 2017 to December 2019. Results: Among the 1,483 eligible healthcare facilities, 175 engaged in the study (participation rate of 11.8%), reporting 222,728 intraocular procedures performed, of which 164,207 were cataract surgery and 58,521 were intravitreal injections. The overall incidence rate of endophthalmitis was reported to be 0.05% (n=105; 80 cases after cataract surgery and 25 cases after intravitreal injections). The incidence rates for healthcare facilities ranged from 0.02% to 4.55%. Most cases were caused by gram-positive bacteria, mainly Staphylococcus spp. In 36 (46.2%) of the cases, there was no bacterial growth; no sample was collected in 28 (26.7%) cases. This system for healthcare-associated endophthalmitis enabled the identification of an outbreak of four cases of endophthalmitis after intravitreal injections. Conclusion: The system for healthcare-associated endophthalmitis proved to be operationally viable and efficient for monitoring cases of endophthalmitis at the state level.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever o processo de implementação e os resultados preliminares de um sistema de vigilância epidemiológica para endoftalmites associada à assistência à saúde. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo de caso de implementação de um sistema de vigilância epidemiológica para endoftalmites. O sistema de vigilância epidemiológica para endoftalmites é um sistema estruturado que possibilita a vigilância de casos de endoftalmite associados à assistência à saúde após procedimentos oftalmológicos invasivos, desenvolvido e coordenado pela Divisão de Infecção Hospitalar da Secretaria de Estado da Saúde, São Paulo, Brasil. O processo de implementação incluiu uma fase piloto, seguida pela fase de expansão. Os dados foram enviados mensalmente à Divisão de Infecção Hospitalar pelos estabelecimentos de saúde participantes que realizaram procedimentos oftalmológicos no estado de São Paulo, Brasil no período de setembro de 2017 a dezembro de 2019. Resultados: Entre os 1.483 estabelecimentos de saúde elegíveis, 175 participaram do estudo (taxa de adesão de 11,8%), relatando 222.728 procedimentos oftalmológicos realizados, sendo 164.207 cirurgias de catarata e 58.521 injeções intravítreas. A taxa de incidência global de endoftalmite relatada foi de 0,05% (n=105; 80 casos após cirurgia de catarata e 25 casos após injeção intravítrea). As taxas de incidência entre os estabelecimentos de saúde variaram de 0,02% a 4,55%. A maioria dos casos foi causada por bactérias gram-positivas, principalmente Staphylococcus spp. Em 36 (46,2%) casos não houve crescimento bacteriano; nenhuma amostra foi coletada em 28 (26,7%) casos. O sistema de vigilância epidemiológica para endoftalmites possibilitou a identificação de um surto de quatro casos de endoftalmite após injeção intravítrea. Conclusão: O sistema de vigilância epidemiológica para endoftalmites mostrou-se operacionalmente viável e eficiente para o monitoramento de casos de endoftalmite em nível estadual.

Situated Learning Theory e as comunidades de prática: subsídios para a reabilitação social de pessoas com estomias / Situated Learning Theory y las comunidades de práctica: subsidios para la rehabilitación social de personas con estomias / Situated Learning Theory and communities of practice: subsidies for the social rehabilitation of people with stomas

Objetivou-se discutir trajetórias de aprendizagem situadas na reabilitação social em Comunidades de Prática (CoP) presenciais e on-line para pessoas com estomia. Foi realizada uma revisão narrativa compreensiva com linha temporal aberta e amostragem de 18 artigos internacionais. A interpretação culminou nos pilares conceituais da CoP em saúde partindo de identidades e trajetórias rumo à participação central, à perificidade legítima e à reificação; transferência educacional em cenários presenciais e on-line com artefatos; exemplos e dilemas de implantação de designers ou arranjos colaborativos para diversos tipos de adoecimento e premência da avaliação interprofissional da trajetória; e, por fim, sabendo da existência das comunidades éticas, foram propostos subsídios para comunidades de prática destinadas às pessoas com estomias no Sistema Único de Saúde, tencionando a participação social-cuidativa e a reabilitação.(AU)

El objetivo fue discutir sobre trayectorias de aprendizaje situado para la rehabilitación social en Comunidades de Práctica (CoP) presenciales y online para personas con estomia. Se desempeñó una revisión narrativa comprensiva con línea de tiempo abierta para el muestreo de 18 artículos internacionales. La interpretación culminó en los pilares conceptuales de la CoP en salud, partiendo de las identidades y trayectorias rumbo a la participación central, perificidad legítima y reificación. Transferencia educativa en escenarios presenciales y online con artefactos, ejemplos y dilemas de implantación de diseñadores o arreglos colaborativos para diversos tipos de enfermedad y la urgencia de la evaluación interprofesional de la trayectoria y, finalmente, conociendo la existencia de las comunidades éticas, se propusieron subsidios para comunidades de práctica destinadas a las personas con estomias en el Sistema Brasileño de Salud, con la intención de la participación social-cuidadora y la rehabilitación.(AU)

The objective was to discuss situated learning trajectories for social rehabilitation in face-to-face and online Communities of Practice (CoP) for people with a stoma. A comprehensive narrative review was carried out with an open timeline, with a sample of 18 international articles. The interpretation culminated in the conceptual pillars of the healthcare CoP, starting from identities and trajectories towards central participation, legitimate peripherality and reification; educational transfer in face-to-face and online settings with artifacts; examples and dilemmas of implementing collaborative designs or arrangements for different types of illness and the urgency of an interprofessional evaluation of the trajectory; finally, knowing about the existence of ethical communities, subsidies were proposed for communities of practice targeted at people with a stoma in the Brazilian National Health System, aiming at social-care participation and rehabilitation.(AU)

O Impacto da Histerectomia e a Participação dos Profissionais de Saúde Durante o Processo Cirúrgico / The Impact of Hysterectomy and the Involvement of Healthcare Professionals During the Surgical Process / El impacto de la histerectomía y la participación de los profesionales de la salud durante el proceso quirúrgico

Objetivo:descrever a o impacto da histerectomia e a participação dos profissionais de saúde durante o processo cirúrgico. O problema de pesquisa parte do seguinte questionamento: que impacto tem a histerectomia na vida da mulher em idade reprodutiva? Que participação tem os profissionais de saúde no processo cirúrgico? Método: Estudo de natureza descritiva com abordagem qualitativa conforme os pressupostos de Minayo (2009) com método de pesquisa exploratória. Resultados:Foram entrevistadas 7 mulheres que foram submetidas a histerectomia, com idade acima de 18 anos, que responderam perguntas referentes ao impacto do diagnóstico, conhecimento sobre a cirugia e experiências sobre o acolhimento dos profissionais da saúde no processo cirúrgico. A entrevista foi realizada em ambiente virtual na plataforma Google Forms. Conclusão: As entrevistadas revelaram sentimentos de angústia e medo ao se depararem com o diagnóstico cirúrgico por ausência de conhecimento inicialmente, evidenciando insatisfação e ausência dos profissionais da saúde quanto à cirurgia. O estudo reforça a importância das equipes multidisciplinares em hospitais e/ou locais de cuidados de saúde, uma vez que o foco principal no trabalho com pessoas acometidas por uma enfermidade não é a doença em si, mas elas mesmas.

Objective: to describe the impact of hysterectomy and the involvement of healthcare professionals during the surgical process. The research problem originates from the following questions: What impact does hysterectomy have on the life of a woman of reproductive age?What role do healthcare professionals play in the surgical process? Method:A descriptive study with a qualitative approach according to Minayo's (2009) assumptions using an exploratory research method. Results:Seven women who underwent hysterectomy, aged over 18 years, were interviewed. They answered questions regarding the impact of the diagnosis, knowledge about the surgery, and experiences of healthcare professionals' support during the surgical process. The interviews were conducted in a virtual environment using the Google Forms platform. Conclusion:The interviewees revealed feelings of anguish and fear when faced with the surgical diagnosis due to initial lack of knowledge, showing dissatisfaction and absence of healthcare professionals regarding the surgery. The study reinforces the importance of multidisciplinary teams in hospitals and/or healthcare facilities, as the main focus in working with people affected by an illness is not the disease itself, but the individuals themselves

Objetivo: describir el impacto de la histerectomía y la participación de los profesionales de la salud durante el proceso quirúrgico. El problema de investigación se basa en la siguiente pregunta: ¿qué impacto tiene la histerectomía en la vida de las mujeres en edadreproductiva? ¿Qué papel juegan los profesionales de la salud en el proceso quirúrgico? Método:Se trata de un estudio descriptivo con enfoque cualitativo según los supuestos de Minayo (2009) con un método de investigación exploratorio. Resultados:Se entrevistó a 7 mujeres mayores de 18 años sometidas a histerectomía, quienes respondieron preguntassobre el impacto del diagnóstico, conocimientos sobre cirugía y experiencias sobre la recepción de profesionales de la salud en el proceso quirúrgico. La entrevista se realizó en un entorno virtual en la plataforma Google Forms. Conclusión:Los entrevistados revelaron sentimientos de angustia y miedo frente al diagnóstico quirúrgico debido a la falta de conocimiento inicial, evidenciando insatisfacción y ausencia de profesionales de la salud con respecto a la cirugía. El estudio refuerza la importancia de los equipos multidisciplinarios en los hospitales y/o en los entornos sanitarios, ya que el foco principal en el trabajo con personas afectadas por una enfermedad no es la enfermedad en sí, sino ellos mismos.