Early visual intervention, visual function analysis, and grating visual acuity outcomes in children with congenital Zika syndrome

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to assess grating visual acuity and functional vision in children with congenital Zika syndrome. Methods: Initial and final grating visual acuity was measured using Teller acuity cards. Cerebral vision impairment standardized tests were used to assess functional vision. Patients were referred to the early visual intervention program for visually disabled children. Neuroimaging was performed. Results: In this study, 10 children were included with an age range of 1-37 months. Eight patients presented with macular atrophic scars. Neuroimaging revealed microcephaly and cerebral abnormalities in all patients. Low vision and cerebral vision impairment characteristics were observed in all children. The final grating visual acuity in this group varied from 3.00 to 0.81 logMAR. Conclusions: The grating visual acuity test revealed low vision in all children with congenital Zika syndrome. Functional vision evaluation revealed cerebral vision impairment characteristics in all patients, who were referred to the early visual intervention program. Visual acuity improved in six children.

Clinical significance and different strategies for re-elevation of plasma EBV-DNA during treatment in pediatric EBV-associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis

Abstract Objective Monitoring the disease status of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-related hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) patients is crucial. This study aimed to investigate the different strategies and outcomes of patients with EBV-HLH and re-elevated EBV-DNA. Method A retrospective analysis was conducted on 20 patients diagnosed with EBV-HLH. Clinical features, laboratory tests, treatments, plasma EBV-DNA levels, and outcomes were assessed. Three cases were highlighted for detailed analysis. Results Nine of the 20 patients had a re-elevation of EBV-DNA during treatment, and 55.5 % (5/9) experienced relapses. Patients with persistently positive plasma EBV-DNA (n = 4) and those with re-elevated EBV-DNA after conversion (n = 9) showed a significantly higher relapse rate compared to those with persistently negative EBV-HLH (n = 7) (p < 0.05). Among the highlighted cases, Case 1 exhibited plasma EBV-DNA re-elevation after four weeks of treatment without relapse, maintaining stability with the original treatment regimen, and eventually, his plasma EBV-DNA turned negative. In Case 2, plasma EBV-DNA was elevated again with a recurrence of HLH after L-DEP. Consequently, she underwent allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and eventually achieved complete remission (CR) with negative plasma EBV-DNA. Case 3 experienced plasma EBV-DNA re-elevation after L-DEP but remained in CR, discontinuing chemotherapy without relapse. Conclusion The re-elevation of plasma EBV-DNA during EBV-HLH treatment poses challenges in determining disease status and treatment strategies. Optimal management decisions require a combination of the level of elevated EBV-DNA, the intensity of hyperinflammation, and the patient's immune function.

Nocardiosis diseminada en paciente con glomeruloesclerosis focal y segmentaria / Disseminated nocardiosis in a patient with focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis

Nocardiosis is a rare infectious disease caused by a group of bacteria of the genus Nocardia in immunocompromised patients and can affect practically any organ, the most common being the lung, central nervous system and skin. We present the case of a patient with primary focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis on immunosuppressive treatment who developed disseminated nocardiosis.

La nocardiosis es una enfermedad infecciosa poco frecuente causada por un grupo de bacterias del género Nocardia en pacientes inmunocomprometidos y puede afectar prácticamente cualquier órgano, siendo los más frecuentes pulmón, sistema nervioso central y piel. Se presenta el caso de un paciente con glomeruloesclerosis focal y segmentaria primaria en tratamiento inmunosupresor que desarrolla nocardiosis diseminada.

COVID-19 y medidas de protección adoptadas en comunidades rurales amazónicas durante los primeros meses de la pandemia / COVID-19 and protection measures adopted in rural amazon communities during the first months of the pandemic

RESUMEN Objetivos. Analizar la evolución del COVID-19 en poblaciones rurales de Loreto y Ucayali en la etapa temprana de la pandemia. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó un estudio observacional longitudinal a nivel de comunidades basado en dos rondas de encuestas telefónicas con autoridades locales de más de 400 comunidades rurales indígenas y no-indígenas en Loreto y Ucayali, en julio y agosto de 2020, para recopilar información sobre casos y muertes por COVID-19 en sus comunidades, medidas de protección adoptadas y la recepción de asistencia estatal en la etapa temprana de la pandemia. Estadísticas descriptivas permiten evaluar la evolución de la pandemia después del brote inicial y comparar las tendencias de las dos regiones, así como entre poblaciones indígenas y no-indígenas. Resultados. En julio de 2020, el COVID-19 había llegado al 91,5% de las comunidades, aunque se reportaron muertes por COVID-19 en 13,0% de las comunidades, siendo la mortalidad rural mayor en Ucayali (0,111%) que en Loreto (0,047%) y en comunidades no-indígenas. Para agosto, la prevalencia disminuyó de 44,0% a 32,0% de comunidades, pero se volvió más frecuente en las comunidades indígenas, y aquellas en Ucayali. Viajar a la ciudad para recibir bonos estatales y las dificultades para mantener el distanciamiento social contribuyeron al contagio. Conclusiones. Los hallazgos mostraron la evolución del COVID-19 en comunidades rurales y señalan áreas importantes de atención en futuras políticas públicas, para la adopción de medidas de protección y reconsiderar estrategias para la distribución de asistencia ante pandemias futuras.

ABSTRACT Objectives. To analyze the evolution of COVID-19 in rural populations of Loreto and Ucayali in the early stage of the pandemic. Materials and methods. A community-level longitudinal observational study was conducted and based on two rounds of telephone surveys with local authorities of more than 400 indigenous and non-indigenous rural communities in Loreto and Ucayali, in July and August 2020. We collected information on cases and deaths by COVID-19 in their communities, protective measures adopted and if state assistance was received in the early stage of the pandemic. Descriptive statistics allowed us to evaluate the evolution of the pandemic after the initial outbreak and compare the trends of the two regions, as well as between indigenous and non-indigenous populations. Results. In July 2020, COVID-19 had reached 91.5% of the communities, although deaths from COVID-19 were reported in 13.0% of the communities, with rural mortality being higher in Ucayali (0.111%) than in Loreto (0.047%) and in non-indigenous communities. By August, prevalence decreased from 44.0% to 32.0% of communities, but became more frequent in indigenous communities, and those in Ucayali. Traveling to the city to receive state bonuses and difficulties maintaining social distancing contributed to the spread. Conclusions. Our findings show the evolution of COVID-19 in rural communities and point to important areas of attention in future public policies, for the adoption of protective measures and reconsidering strategies for the distribution of assistance in the face of future pandemics.

Secondary infections in critically ill patients admitted with COVID-19 in Bogotá, Colombia. Observational cohort study / Infecciones secundarias en pacientes críticos ingresados con COVID-19 en Bogotá, Colombia. Estudio observacional de cohorte

Abstract Introduction: The presence of secondary infections in critically ill patients and antibiotic resistance are often determining factors in the clinical evolution of these patients. Objective: To describe the pathogens isolated in blood cultures and tracheal secretion cultures in ICU patients with COVID-19 and to evaluate the association between the presence of secondary infections and 60-day mortality. Methods: Retrospective analytical cohort study conducted in 273 adults admitted to the ICU with COVID-19 at the Subred Integrada de Servicios de Salud del Sur - Hospital El Tunal, Bogotá, Colombia between April and December 2020. Data from records of blood or tracheal secretion cultures were collected. A bivariate analysis was performed using a Cox proportional-hazards regression model to assess the association between the development of secondary infections and 60-day mortality. Results: At least one positive blood culture was reported in 96/511 patients (18.8%). Of the 214 blood cultures performed within 48 hours after ICU admission, 7.7% were positive. A total of 127 germs were isolated from blood cultures - mostly gram-negative bacteria (61.4%) - followed by fungi (25.2%). Additionally, 39.5% were multidrug-resistant, and carbapenem resistance was the most common antibiotic resistance pattern (33.3% of all gram-negative bacteria isolates). Finally, in this cohort, the presence of secondary infections was not associated with 60-day mortality (HR: 1.012, 95%CI: 0.7211.420; p= 0.946). Conclusions: Although the prevalence of superinfection was moderately high, the prevalence of coinfection was low. Gram-negative bacteria were predominant, and almost one third of the germs were multidrug-resistant.

Resumen Introducción: La presencia de infecciones secundarias en pacientes críticos y la resistencia a los antibióticos suelen ser factores determinantes en la evolución clínica de estos pacientes. Objetivo: Describir los patógenos aislados en cultivos de sangre y de secreciones traqueales en pacientes de la UCI con COVID-19 y evaluar la relación entre la presencia de infecciones secundarias y la mortalidad a 60 días. Métodos: Estudio de cohorte analítico retrospectivo realizado en 273 adultos ingresados a la UCI con COVID-19 de la Subred Integrada de Servicios de Salud del Sur - Hospital El Tunal, Bogotá, Colombia entre abril y diciembre de 2020. Se obtuvieron los datos de los registros de cultivos en sangre y en secreciones de la tráquea. Se llevó a cabo un análisis bivariado mediante un modelo de riesgos proporcionales o regresión de Cox para evaluar la relación entre el desarrollo de infecciones secundarias y la mortalidad a 60 días. Resultados: Se reportó al menos un cultivo en sangre positivo en 96/511 (18.8%). De los 214 cultivos de sangre realizados dentro de las 48 horas siguientes al ingreso a la UCI, 7,7% resultaron positivos. Se aislaron en total 127 gérmenes en los cultivos en sangre, en su mayoría bacterias gramnegativas (61,4%) - seguido de hongos (25,2%). Adicionalmente, 39.5% fueron multirresistentes, siendo la resistencia los carbapenémicos el patrón de resistencia a los antibióticos más frecuente (33,3% de todos los aislados de bacterias gramnegativas). Finalmente, la presencia de infecciones secundarias en esta cohorte no se asoció con mortalidad a 60 días (HR: 1,012, IC 95%: 0,721-1,420; p= 0,946). Conclusiones: A pesar de que la prevalencia de super infecciones fue moderadamente alta, la prevalencia de coinfección fue baja. Las bacterias gramnegativas fueron las predominantes y casi un tercio de los gérmenes eran multirresistentes.

Reduction of catheter-associated bloodstream infections: Effectiveness of the continuous quality improvement method at a university hospital in Colombia / Reducción de las infecciones del torrente sanguíneo asociadas a catéter: efectividad del método de mejora continua de la calidad en un hospital universitario en Colombia

Abstract Introduction: Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSI) are preventable and potential fatal events, frequent in critical patient care. By mid-2018 an increase was noted in the incidence rate of CLABSI at a high complexity institution in Colombia, demanding immediate interventions to lower those numbers. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of the continuous quality improvement methodology (CQI) to lower the incidence rate of CLABSI at a university hospital in Bogotá, Colombia. Methods: Longitudinal, prospective study implementing a multifaceted intervention in accordance with the CQI methodology. The project was developed at a high complexity university hospital in Bogotá, Colombia, between July 2018 and December 2019. A root cause analysis was consecutively conducted prioritizing contributing factors, gathering ideas for improvement, building a strategy and prioritizing the implementation plan. Results: The CQI methodology enabled the identification of areas susceptible of catheter insertion and management errors at the institution; additionally, it allowed for the prioritization of the areas requiring intervention through consecutive test cycles for improvement ideas. The reduction and sustainability of insertion-related CLABSI was accomplished three months after the start of the interventions, achieving a zero value. The implementation of improvement ideas aimed at reducing the events associated with catheter maintenance was also able to reduce the incidence to zero, until the end of the period of observation of the study. Conclusions: It is feasible to implement CQI in settings similar to the one herein described, in order to efficiently reduce CLABSIs.

Resumen Introducción: Las infecciones del torrente sanguíneo asociadas a catéter (ITS/AC) son eventos prevenibles y potencialmente fatales, comunes en el contexto del cuidado de pacientes críticos. A mediados de 2018 se presentó un incremento en la tasa de incidencia de ITS/AC en una institución colombiana de alta complejidad, obligando a realizar intervenciones inmediatas para lograr una reducción de estas cifras. Objetivo: Evaluar la efectividad del método de mejoramiento continuo de la calidad (MCC) para la reducción de la tasa de incidencia de ITS/AC en un hospital universitario en Bogotá, Colombia. Métodos: Estudio longitudinal, prospectivo, en el que se implementa una intervención multifacética siguiendo la metodología de MCC. El proyecto se desarrolló en un hospital universitario de alta de complejidad de Bogotá, Colombia, entre julio de 2018 y diciembre de 2019. Se realizaron consecutivamente un análisis de causa raíz, priorización de factores contribuyentes, recuperación de ideas de mejora, construcción de la estrategia y priorización del plan de implementación. Resultados: El método de MCC permitió la detección de zonas susceptibles de presentación de errores en la inserción de catéteres y su mantenimiento en la Institución, además permitió priorizar las áreas por intervenir mediante ciclos consecutivos de prueba para las ideas de mejora. Se logró la reducción y sostenibilidad de la ITS/AC asociada a inserción luego de tres meses de iniciar las intervenciones, logrando valores de cero. La implementación de ideas de mejora dirigidas a reducir los eventos relacionados con el mantenimiento de catéteres también logró reducirlos a cero hasta la terminación del periodo de observación de este estudio. Conclusiones: Es factible implementar MCC en contextos como el aquí presentado para reducir de manera eficiente las ITS/AC.

Um esclarecimento sobre a real necessidade de realizar a reposição hormonal de testosterona no homem / A clarification on the real need for testosterone hormone replacement in men / Una aclaración sobre la necesidad real de sustituir la hormona testosterona en los hombres

O artigo é uma revisão sobre os aspectos relacionados ao envelhecimento masculino e necessidades de tratamentos, com ênfase no hipogonadismo tardio, baixa produção de testosterona e possível desenvolvimento do Distúrbio Androgênico do Envelhecimento Masculino (DAEM). O objetivo foi apresentar o DAEM e suas implicações sobre a qualidade de vida do paciente para promover e validar o tratamento, quando realmente for apropriado, para esse quadro clínico. Utilizou-se como a fonte de pesquisa Google Acadêmico, banco de dados Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde e do PubMed foram obtidos artigos com as aplicações dos seguintes filtros: 2010-2023 e descritores em saúde (andropausa, reposição hormonal, testosterona, DAEM, hipogonadismo e síndromes metabólicas). Os critérios de inclusão utilizados foram a disponibilidade integral dos artigos, ter os idiomas inglês e português, e abordar o tema da Doença Androgênica do Envelhecimento, todas as suas repercussões sobre a qualidade de vida do homem e, sobretudo, o seu tratamento. Para excluir artigos encontrados na busca, foram observadas obras que apenas tangenciam o tema e tinham enfoque em outros aspectos, como: estética e esporte. Após a aplicação do método, 14 trabalhos foram selecionados por estabelecerem grande relação com o tema. Esse distúrbio acarreta para o indivíduo um conjunto de sinais e sintomas capazes de comprometer sua qualidade de vida: disfunção erétil, baixa libido, obesidade, redução de massa magra ou sarcopenia, osteoporose e distúrbios do humor. O diagnóstico é feito clinicamente e através de exames laboratoriais de dosagem sérica de testosterona. Perante a confirmação diagnóstica e sem patologizar processos fisiológicos do envelhecimento, o tratamento indicado é a reposição de testosterona que tende a normalizar o quadro do idoso por amenizar ou finalizar os sinais e sintomas desse paciente, proporcionando-o uma terceira idade com qualidade de vida. Vale destacar que as disposições de formulações de testosterona são inúmeras: orais, transdérmicas, intramusculares ou injetáveis. A via de administração depende da situação individual de cada paciente e cada tipo de medicamento tem seus benefícios se comparado aos outros, seja por comparação entre efeitos colaterais, estabilidade de níveis séricos hormonais, custo e acesso. O DAEM precisa ser identificado e diagnosticado naqueles pacientes que necessitam de um tratamento por apresentar sinais e sintomas prejudiciais ao bem-estar. Para isso, a indústria farmacêutica disponibiliza uma gama de formas de administração de testosterona. Entretanto, é preciso ter clareza sobre a real necessidade de medicar um paciente.

The article is a review of aspects related to male aging and treatment needs, with an emphasis on late-onset hypogonadism, low testosterone production and the possible development of Androgenic Male Aging Disorder (AMAD). The aim was to present the AMAD and its implications for the patient's quality of life in order to promote and validate treatment, where appropriate, for this clinical condition. The search source used was Google Scholar, the Virtual Health Library database and PubMed, where articles were obtained using the following filters: 2010-2023 and health descriptors (andropause, hormone replacement, testosterone, AMAD, hypogonadism and metabolic syndromes). The inclusion criteria used were that the articles were available in full, that they were in English and Portuguese, and that they dealt with the subject of Androgenic Ageing Disorder, all its repercussions on men's quality of life and, above all, its treatment. To exclude articles found in the search, we looked at works that only touched on the subject and focused on other aspects, such as aesthetics and sport. After applying the method, 14 articles were selected because they were closely related to the topic. This disorder leads to a set of signs and symptoms that can compromise the individual's quality of life: erectile dysfunction, low libido, obesity, reduced lean mass or sarcopenia, osteoporosis and mood disorders. The diagnosis is made clinically and through laboratory tests of serum testosterone levels. Once the diagnosis has been confirmed and without pathologizing the physiological processes of ageing, the treatment indicated is testosterone replacement, which tends to normalize the condition of the elderly by easing or ending the signs and symptoms of the patient, providing them with a quality old age. It's worth noting that there are many different formulations of testosterone: oral, transdermal, intramuscular or injectable. The route of administration depends on the individual situation of each patient and each type of medication has its benefits compared to the others, whether it's a comparison of side effects, stability of serum hormone levels, cost and accessibility. AMAD needs to be identified and diagnosed in those patients who need treatment because they have signs and symptoms that are detrimental to their well-being. To this end, the pharmaceutical industry offers a range of forms of testosterone administration. However, it is necessary to be clear about the real need to medicate a patient.

El artículo es una revisión de los aspectos relacionados con el envejecimiento masculino y las necesidades de tratamiento, con énfasis en el hipogonadismo de inicio tardío, la baja producción de testosterona y el posible desarrollo del Trastorno Androgénico del Envejecimiento Masculino (TAME). El objetivo fue presentar el TAME y sus implicaciones en la calidad de vida del paciente, con el fin de promover y validar el tratamiento de esta condición clínica, cuando sea apropiado. La fuente de búsqueda utilizada fue Google Scholar, la base de datos de la Biblioteca Virtual de Salud y PubMed, donde se obtuvieron artículos utilizando los siguientes filtros: 2010-2023 y descriptores de salud (andropausia, reemplazo hormonal, testosterona, TAME, hipogonadismo y síndromes metabólicos). Los criterios de inclusión utilizados fueron que los artículos estuvieran disponibles en su totalidad, en inglés y portugués, y que abordaran el tema del Trastorno Androgénico del Envejecimiento, todas sus repercusiones en la calidad de vida de los hombres y, sobre todo, su tratamiento. Para excluir los artículos encontrados en la búsqueda, se consideraron los trabajos que sólo tocaban el tema y se centraban en otros aspectos, como la estética y el deporte. Tras aplicar el método, se seleccionaron 14 artículos por estar estrechamente relacionados con el tema. Este trastorno conlleva un conjunto de signos y síntomas que pueden comprometer la calidad de vida del individuo: disfunción eréctil, libido baja, obesidad, reducción de la masa magra o sarcopenia, osteoporosis y trastornos del estado de ánimo. El diagnóstico se realiza clínicamente y mediante pruebas de laboratorio de los niveles séricos de testosterona. Una vez confirmado el diagnóstico y sin patologizar los procesos fisiológicos del envejecimiento, el tratamiento indicado es el reemplazo de testosterona, que tiende a normalizar la condición del anciano, aliviando o terminando con sus signos y síntomas, proporcionándole una vejez con calidad de vida. Cabe destacar que existen diversas formulaciones de testosterona: oral, transdérmica, intramuscular o inyectable. La vía de administración depende de la situación individual de cada paciente y cada tipo de medicación tiene sus ventajas frente a las demás, ya sea en comparación con los efectos secundarios, la estabilidad de los niveles séricos de la hormona, el coste y la accesibilidad. Es necesario identificar y diagnosticar el TAME en aquellos pacientes que necesitan tratamiento porque presentan signos y síntomas perjudiciales para su bienestar. Para ello, la industria farmacéutica ofrece diversas formas de administración de testosterona. Sin embargo, es necesario tener clara la necesidad real de medicar a un paciente.

Assessment of antimicrobial activity of Meliponula ferrugica in pathogenic wound samples

Background: Honey is a naturally occurring sweet material that bees make from nectar from flowers, secretions from plant parts, or excretions from plants that suck insects from plant parts. Honey’s antibacterial and antifungal qualities are widely known, and it has been used to heal burns, surgical wounds, and decubitus ulcers. Honey instantly sterilizes wounds affected by Staphylococcus aureus. The honey’s ability to fight bacteria can be ascertained by the nectar’s origin. Many antibiotic resistances among the bacteria that cause infections in humans have directly evolved as a result of the use of antibiotics in clinical practice. Methods: This study found that Bergey’s manual of determinative bacteriology can be used to identify Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. According to the study’s findings, honey has a capacity to neutralise Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus that have been isolated from infected wounds. Honey’s antibacterial characteristics account for a significant portion of its antibacterial activity. Results: Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were both susceptible to the antibacterial activity of the honey sample. Pseudomonas aeruginosa exhibited lower activity compared to Staphylococcus aureus. Conclusions: The results of this investigation show that Bergey’s handbook of determinative bacteriology can be used to identify Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. According to the study’s findings, honey has the ability to neutralise Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus that have been isolated from infected wounds.

Antimicrobial sensitivity pattern of bacterial pathogens for uncomplicated urinary tract infection in female patients at a tertiary level hospital

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) remain the common infections in outpatients as well as hospitalized patients. Antimicrobials are frequently used drugs for the treatment of UTIs. Periodic evaluation of antimicrobial activity of different antimicrobial agents is essential as the pattern of antimicrobial sensitivity may vary over period. The aim of this study was to identify the antimicrobial sensitivity pattern of the isolated uropathogens in female patients in urinary tract infection at a tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh. Methods: This observational cross-sectional type of study was conducted in the department of pharmacology and therapeutics in collaboration with department of microbiology SBMC, outpatient department of medicine, and gynaecology and obstetrics, SBMCH, Barishal, from January 2017 to December 2017. Results: In this study, age of the subjects ranging from 18 to 65 years, majority subjects (57.0%) belonged to age group of 31-44 years. The mean age was found 44.5±9.1 years. Out of 200 cases, 83% cases hailing from rural area and 17% from urban site. In this study microbial culture result of uncomplicated UTI revealed that 103 (51.5%) of urine samples had significant bacteriuria. E. coli was found to be the most prevalent 47 (45.6%), followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae 18 (17.4%), Proteus spp. 11 (10.6%) and Enterobacter spp. 9 (8.7%). Conclusions: The pattern of resistance to commonly used antimicrobials for treating UTI alerts us against indiscriminate usage of antimicrobials.

Bacteriology and antibiotic sensitivity in gynaecological abdominal surgical site infections

Background: Surgical site infection increases the rate of re hospitalisation, the use of health care, diagnostic, and therapeutic resources, and hospital costs. Severe sequelae may exacerbate primary and devastating infections. About 39-51% of pathogens causing surgical site infections were documented to be resistant to standard prophylactic antibiotics. This study aimed to calculate surgical site infection rate at our hospital. To identify the isolates causing surgical site infections and study anti-microbial susceptibility pattern of isolated organisms.Methods: This observational study was done among patients who underwent abdominal gynaecological surgeries and who developed surgical site infection in department of obstetrics and gynaecology in Maharajahs institute of medical sciences during May 2022 to April 2024.Results: Surgical site infection rate at our hospital is 18.29%, there are 30 surgical site infections, 76.7% cases are culture positive, 23.3% cases are sterile, 52.2% cases are gram negative, 47.8% are gram positive. Most common organism isolated is E. coli (39%) followed by Staphylococcus aureus (26%), enterococcus (21.7%), Pseudomonas (8.6%), Klebsiella (4.3%). Antibiotic susceptibility pattern shows maximum overall sensitivity of organisms to amikacin (65.4%) followed by gentamicin (56%), piperacillin tazobactum (52.17%), amoxyclav (47.8%) followed by rest of drugs.Conclusions: Practice of routine culture and sensitivity of surgical site infections can prevent grave complications, limit cost of treatment, prevent fast emerging antimicrobial resistance. In our study, complications are limited to need for secondary suturing. The most susceptible drug in our study is amikacin, thus, it can be incorporated as a part of empirical treatment in patients with surgical site infection before the culture sensitivity report is obtained.

Manejo cirúrgico de ferimento auto-infligido por arma de fogo em região maxilofacial / Surgical management of self-inflicted injury by gun in the maxillofacial region

INTRODUÇÃO: O manejo dos pacientes vítimas de PAF possui vertentes divergentes a respeito do tratamento cirúrgico, que pode ser realizado de forma imedata ou tardia. Em lesões auto-infligidas, a distância entre a arma e a região acometida é menor, causando consequências estéticas e funcionais mais devastadoras. Aliado ao fato desse tipo de trauma criar uma ferida suja devido à comunicação com a cavidade oral e seios paranasais, o manejo das lesões representam um desafio mesmo à cirurgiões experientes. OBJETIVO: Estre trabalho relata o manejo cirúrgico de uma ferida auto-infligida por arma de fogo que resultou em avulsão dos tecidos moles na região maxilofacial. DESCRIÇÃO DO CASO: Paciente do sexo masculino, 35 anos, vítima de projétil de arma de fogo auto-infligido em região maxilofacial, cursando com extenso ferimento em região de língua e mento. Clinicamente, o paciente não apresentava sinais de fratura em ossos da face. Ambos os ferimentos apresentavam secreção purulenta e o paciente manifestava disfonia devido a grande destruição tecidual. CONSIDERAÇÕES FINAIS: O tratamento de ferimentos por arma de fogo não só é um grande desafio para o cirurgião, como para toda a equipe multidisciplinar requerida para tais casos, visto que não há protocolos bem definidos para o tratamento dessas lesões(AU)

INTRODUCTION: The management of patients who are victims of FAP has divergent aspects regarding surgical treatment, which can be performed immediately or late. In self-inflicted injuries, the distance between the weapon and the affected region is smaller, causing more devastating aesthetic and functional consequences. Allied to the fact that this type of trauma creates a dirty wound due to the communication with the oral cavity and paranasal sinuses, the management of injuries represents a challenge even for experienced surgeons. OBJECTIVE: This paper reports the surgical management of a self-inflicted gunshot wound that resulted in soft tissue avulsion in the maxillofacial region. CASE DESCRIPTION: Male patient, 35 years old, victim of a self-inflicted firearm projectile in the maxillofacial region, coursing with extensive injury in the region of the tongue and chin. Clinically, the patient did not show signs of facial bone fractures. Both wounds had purulent secretion and the patient had dysphonia due to extensive tissue destruction. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: The treatment of gunshot wounds is not only a great challenge for the surgeon, but also for the entire multidisciplinary team required for such cases, since there are no well-defined protocols for the treatment of these injuries(AU)

Compliance with the five moments for hand hygiene of healthcare workers in a pediatric hospital. A prospective observational study

Introduction: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), also known as nosocomial infections or hospital-acquired infections, begin within 48 hours of hospitalization, within 30 days after hospital discharge, or 90 days after undergoing surgical procedures. Objective: The study aimed to describe the compliance with the five moments for hand hygiene (HH) of the healthcare workers (HCWs) in a hospital. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted from June 1 to 30,2020 in a pediatric hospital. HCWs compliance with the five moments of HH was registered by direct observation blindly to the participants, using the fact sheet for HH of the WHO. In the rows, the five moments of contact with the patients were recorded: before touching a patient, before clean aseptic procedure, after body fluid exposure risk, after touching a patient and after touching patient surroundings. The actions performed, also was registered: hand washing, alcohol hand friction, omission, or use of gloves. Data were analyzed in SPSS V 21. The protocol was approved by the institutional review board. Results: During the study period, 2.595 observations to 104 HCWs were made. They were pediatric residents 38.5 %, nurses 32.7 % and pediatricians 28.8 %. A global compliance with the five moments of HH of the participants were 64.5% (1673/2595). Before touching a patient, the adherence was 86,9%. The nurses adhered in 69%, pediatrician in 68.6 % and the pediatric residents in 57.2%. Discussion: The global percentage of compliance with the five moments of HH of the medical and nursing staff of the pediatric hospital was 64.5%. Nurses had the highest percentage of adherence. Handwashing compliance was higher before contact with the patients.

Introducción: Las infecciones asociadas a la atención médica (IAAS), también conocidas como infecciones nosocomiales o infecciones adquiridas en el hospital, comienzan dentro de las 48 horas posteriores a la hospitalización, dentro de los 30 días posteriores al alta hospitalaria o 90 días después de someterse a procedimientos quirúrgicos. Objetivo: El estudio tuvo como objetivo describir el cumplimiento con los cinco momentos para la higiene de manos (HH) de los trabajadores de la salud (TDS) en un hospital. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio observacional prospectivo del 1 al 30 de junio de 2020 en un hospital pediátrico. La adherencia de los TDS con los cinco momentos de HH fue registrada por observación directa de manera ciega a los participantes, utilizando la hoja informativa para HH de la OMS. En las filas se registraron los cinco momentos de contacto con los pacientes: antes de tocar a un paciente, antes de un procedimiento aséptico limpio, después de exponerse a fluidos corporales, después de tocar a un paciente y después de tocar el entorno del paciente. También se registraron las acciones realizadas: lavado de manos, fricción con alcohol en gel, omisión o uso de guantes. Los datos fueron analizados en SPSS V 21. El protocolo fue aprobado por el comité de ética institucional. Resultados: Durante el período de estudio, se realizaron 2,595 observaciones a 104 TDS. Eran residentes pediátricos en un 38.5%, enfermeras en un 32.7% y pediatras en un 28.8%. La adherencia global a los cinco momentos de HH de los participantes fue del 64.5% (1673/2595). Antes de tocar a un paciente, la adherencia fue del 86.9%. Las enfermeras se adhirieron en un 69%, los pediatras en un 68.6% y los residentes pediátricos en un 57.2%. Discusión: El porcentaje global de cumplimiento con los cinco momentos de HH del personal médico y de enfermería del hospital pediátrico fue del 64.5%. Las enfermeras tuvieron el mayor porcentaje de adherencia. El cumplimiento del lavado de manos fue mayor antes del contacto con los pacientes.

Prevención de Infecciones Respiratorias por VSR: Consenso Interinstitucional

Las infecciones por el VSR en constituyen una causa importante de morbilidad, hospitalización, ausentismo escolar y laboral, así como de mortalidad, en el mundo, así como en el Paraguay.En la actualidad, existen herramientas para la prevención del VSR. En el año 2012, el Paraguay, ha incorporado el palivizumab (MedImmune, EE. UU.), anticuerpo monoclonal, producido por tecnología de DNA recombinante. Este anticuerpo se administra en 5 dosis, cada 30 días y está indicado en lactantes nacidos prematuros y aquellos con trastornos cardiopulmonares. Por otro lado, actualmente se cuenta con una nueva herramienta para la prevención del VSR. El anticuerpo monoclonal de vida media prolongada Nirsevimab, específico para la conformación de prefusión de la proteína F, aprobado por EMA y FDA. Este monoclonal, está indicado para la prevención de las Infecciones respiratorias agudas bajas, causada por VSR en recién nacidos y lactantes nacidos durante o al ingresar a su primera temporada de VSR, en prematuros y lactantes hasta los 24 meses de edad que siguen siendo vulnerables a la enfermedad grave por VSR durante su segunda temporada de VSR. Luego de analizar la situación epidemiológica del VSR en el país así como la evidencia de eficacia, eficiencia y efectividad de este monoclonal; instituciones académicas, sociedades científicas, organizaciones no gubernamentales y gubernamentales se reunieron y elaboraron un consenso interinstitucional para la prevención de las infecciones por VSR, sugiriendo la incorporación del Nirsevimab, en menores de 12 meses de edad antes de su primera temporada de VSR y en reemplazo del Palivizumab, debido a que el nuevo monoclonal tiene el potencial de cambiar el panorama de las infecciones por VSR en el lactante y producir un impacto en la reducción la mortalidad y morbilidad infantil; reduciendo la carga al sistema de salud, en lo que se refiere a la disminución de la ocupación de camas hospitalarias tanto en sala como en unidades de cuidados intensivos, así como la disminución de la carga para los cuidadores, médicos y proveedores de atención médica y la mortalidad infantil.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections constitute a significant cause of morbidity, hospitalization, school and work absenteeism, as well as mortality worldwide, including in Paraguay. Currently, tools for RSV prevention are available. In 2012, Paraguay approved the use of palivizumab (MedImmune, USA), a monoclonal antibody produced through recombinant DNA technology. This antibody is administered in 5 doses, every 30 days and is indicated in infants born prematurely and those with cardiopulmonary disorders. Furthermore, a novel tool for RSV prevention has recently become available. Nirsevimab, a long-acting monoclonal antibody specific to the prefusion conformation of the F protein, has been approved by both the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This monoclonal antibody is indicated for the prevention of acute lower respiratory tract infections caused by RSV in newborns and infants born during or entering their first RSV season, as well as in premature infants and infants up to 24 months of age who remain vulnerable to severe RSV disease during their second RSV season. After analyzing the epidemiological situation of RSV in our country and evaluating the evidence of efficacy, efficiency, and effectiveness of this monoclonal antibody, academic institutions, scientific societies, and non-governmental and governmental organizations developed consensus guidelines on a new prevention alternative for the prevention of RSV infections, suggesting the incorporation of Nirsevimab in children under 12 months of age before their first RSV season and replacing Palivizumab. The new monoclonal has the potential to change the panorama of RSV infections in infants and produce an impact on the reduction of infant mortality and morbidity reducing the burden on the health system by decreasing hospital bed occupancy both in wards and in intensive care units, as well as the decrease in the burden on caregivers, physicians and health care providers.

Análise qualitativa sobre a atuação e as experiências dos enfermeiros na gestão hospitalar frente à COVID-19 / Qualitative analysis of nurses' performance and experiences in hospital management in the face of COVID-19

Resumo Objetivou-se analisar a atuação dos enfermeiros na gestão hospitalar frente à COVID-19. O estudo teve uma abordagem qualitativa, do tipo descritivo e exploratório. O cenário foi um hospital que se transformou totalmente para atendimento de pacientes com COVID-19. No momento da coleta de dados, dez enfermeiros estavam à frente da gestão dos serviços, e todos participaram da entrevista semiestruturada. Os dados, após análise temática, foram apresentados em três categorias representativas dos elementos da tríade de Donabedian, ou seja, estrutura, processo e resultado. A categoria 1 realçou a reconfiguração da estrutura hospitalar a partir da gestão de materiais e das pessoas; a categoria 2 abordou a reestruturação do processo de trabalho para alcance das metas com segurança e qualidade; e a categoria 3 focou nas experiências dos enfermeiros na descrição dos resultados alcançados e esperados. A análise evidenciou a importância do trabalho em equipe, do envolvimento e da adaptação do gestor diante dos desafios da doença nova e ameaçadora da vida, dos recursos escassos e da complexidade das relações humanas na crise. Na liderança transformacional esses enfermeiros incentivaram a mudança de comportamento, o crescimento profissional, e resiliência.

Abstract This study aimed to analyze the role of nurses in hospital management in the face of COVID-19. The study had a qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory approach. The setting was a hospital that was completely transformed to care for patients with COVID-19. At the time of data collection, ten nurses managed the services, and all participated in the semi-structured interview. After thematic analysis, the data were presented in three categories, representing the elements of Donabedian's triad: structure, process, and result. Category 1 highlighted the hospital structure reconfiguration based on material and people management; category 2 addressed the work process restructuring to achieve goals with safety and quality; and category 3 focused on nurses' experiences in describing the results achieved and expected. The analysis highlighted the importance of teamwork, involvement, and adaptation of managers in the face of the challenges of a new and life-threatening disease, scarce resources, and the complexity of human relationships in the crisis. In transformational leadership, these nurses encouraged behavior change, professional growth, and resilience.

A clinical review on importance of sanitizing the operating room

Modern day surgery is a highly sophisticated procedure incorporating both invasive and non-invasive techniques that are performed in the operation theatres. But we cannot ignore the fact that the infections are often acquired in hospital are surgical sites. The infection may transfer from patient to staff, staff to patients or patient to patient. Hence the aim of infection control practice is reducing the risk of infection from the surgical site. These practices include surgical scrubbing, disinfection of operating rooms, equipment and sterilization of instruments. Hand washing is done before and after dealing the patients, before surgical procedure with anti-septic solution or alcohol based sanitizer. The sanitizing techniques play an important role in avoiding infections and their spread in operating room. The knowledge of various techniques of disinfection and sterilization are more essential for staff members. These include but not limited to preparation of disinfectants and their concentration. For surgical instruments we use steam sterilizer (auto-clave) and ethylene oxide for endoscopic instruments. There is a need of training the surgical staff members to carry out these practices.

Post operative wound infection: a descriptive study

Background: Surgical site infections is the third most commonly reported nosocomial infection which has an adverse impact on the hospital as well as the patient. This study was designed to evaluate the frequency, clinical presentation, common risk factors and different organisms involved.Methods: This study was performed at NRI Medical college, Chinnakakani. This is an Observational descriptive study over a period of one year from September 2022 to September 2023. Biodata of the patients together with their clinical features, diagnosis, type of surgery performed and the development of any complications including wound infection was noted and the data analyzed.Results: Out of 1509 patients in the study, 1101 belonged to obstetrics and 408 to gynaecology surgery. The overall incidence of surgical site infection in the study was 7.9%; 86 (7.8%) in obstetrics group and 33 (8%) in gynaecology group developed infection. Age more than 50 years was found to be a risk factor for postoperative wound infection. Obesity is known to be a well-established risk factor for postoperative wound infection. It was noted that surgical site infection was more common in patients that had low haemoglobin levels pre-operatively. The increased susceptibility to infection in diabetics is an established risk factor.Conclusions: Meticulous surgical technique, proper sterilization, judicious use of antibiotics, improvement of ward environments, control of malnutrition and obesity, treatment of infective foci and diseases like diabetes helps control the morbidity of surgical wound infections.

Caracterização dos pacientes internados por infecção odontogênica em unidade hospitalar / Characterization of patients hospitalized for odontogenic infection in a hospital unit / Caracterización de pacientes hospitalizados por infección odontogénica en una unidad hospitalaria

Introdução: As infecções orais e maxilofaciais de origem odontogênica representam uma área relevante do conhecimento médico, pois podem evoluir para quadros de alta morbidade e mortalidade. Objetivo: Avaliar o perfil dos pacientes atendidos com diagnostico de infecção de origem odontogênica em um hospital público de Mato Groso do Sul. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo retrospectiva do tipo observacional e transversal que consistiu na análise de 68 prontuários de pacientes com diagnostico de infecção odontogênica, no período de março de 2019 a fevereiro de 2022. Resultados e Conclusão: Os resultados apontam para uma incidência de infecção odontogênica em 39,70% para a população jovem entre 16 a 28 anos, com sintomas como edema em 82,35% dos casos, seguidos de trismo 51,47% e disfagia 17,64%, uma média de internação de 6,1 dias e necessidade de traqueostomia em 10,29% dos casos. Deste modo, o cirurgião dentista em frente a processos agudos de infecção odontogênica exerce a função primordial do reconhecimento dos sintomas e intervenção precoce evitando seu agravamento... (AU)

Introduction: Oral and maxillofacial infections of odontogenic origin represent a relevant area of medical knowledge, as they can evolve into cases of high morbidity and mortality. Objective: To evaluate the profile of patients treated with a diagnosis of infection of odontogenic origin in a public hospital in Mato Groso do Sul. Methods: This is a retrospective observational and cross-sectional study that consisted of analyzing 68 medical records of patients diagnosed with odontogenic infection, from March 2019 to February 2022. Results and Conclusion: The results point to an incidence of odontogenic infection in 39.70% for the young population between 16 and 28 years old, with symptoms such as edema in 82.35% of cases, followed by trismus 51.47% and dysphagia 17.64%, an average hospital stay of 6 ,1 days and need for tracheostomy in 10.29% of cases. In this way, the dental surgeon, faced with acute pro[1]cesses of odontogenic infection, plays the primary role of recognizing the symptoms and early intervention, preventing their aggravation... (AU)

Introducción: Las infecciones orales y maxilofaciales de origen odontogénico representan un área relevante del conocimiento médico, ya que pueden evolucionar hacia casos de alta morbilidad y mortalidad. Objetivo: Evaluar el perfil de los pacientes atendidos con diagnóstico de infección de origen odontogénico en un hospital público de Mato Groso do Sul. Métodos: Se trata de un estudio observacional retrospectivo y transversal que consistió en analizar 68 historias clínicas de pacientes con diagnóstico de infección odontogénica, desde marzo de 2019 hasta febrero de 2022. Resultados y Conclusión: Los resultados apuntan a una incidencia de infección odontogénica del 39,70%. para la población joven entre 16 y 28 años, con síntomas como edema en el 82,35% de los casos, seguido de trismo 51,47% y disfagia 17,64%, estancia hospitalaria promedio de 6,1 días y necesidad de traqueotomía en el 10,29% de los casos . De esta forma, el cirujano dentista, ante procesos agudos de infección odontogénica, realiza la función primordial de reconocer los síntomas e intervenir precozmente, evitando su agravamiento... (AU)

Effectiveness of catheter-associated urinary tract infections bundle approach to reduce urinary catheter associated infection rate among children admitted in Paediatric unit

Background: CAUTI bundle care aims to reduce catheter associated urinary tract infection, enhance quality of life and promote comfort. The present study aimed to assess the effect of CAUTI bundle approach on urinary catheter associated infection rate among children admitted in paediatric unit of KGMU.Methods:Quantitative research approach was done on 46 children who were admitted in paediatric unit, KGMU, Lucknow. Purposive sampling technique was used. Socio demographic was obtained by socio demographic Performa, CAUTI was assessed by urine culture test and symptomatic assessment of UTI. Results: The result revealed that on the basis of urine culture results, in exposed group majority of the children that is 18 (78.26%) was sterile and rest 5 (21.73%) was infected and in unexposed group 13 (56.52%) children was sterile and remain 10 (43.47%) was infected. And on the basis of symptomatic assessment for CAUTI, in exposed group majority of the children that is 17 (73.91%) are less symptomatic and remain 6 (26.08%) was more symptomatic for CAUTI and in unexposed group most of the children that is 14 (60.86%) was less symptomatic for CAUTI and rest 9 (39.13%) was more symptomatic for CAUTI. Conclusions: CAUTI bundles approach provides evidence-based prevention practices and strategies to reduce CAUTI. The present study found that CAUTI bundle care was effective in reducing CAUTI in children.

Multiple gene mutations in cytomegalovirus positive infantile nephrotic syndrome: a case report

The term 搃nfantile� is used for those cases of nephrotic syndrome (NS) that manifest from 3 months to 1 year of age. These are rare diseases attributable to both genetic and certain congenital infections. The prognosis depends on the type of mutation and whether remission occurs with specific therapy in the latter. However, multiple other gene mutations may be found associated with these that hold individual significance. Here, we report a case of an 11-month-old child with infantile NS having novel gene mutations NPHS 2 gene and the gut-associated lymphoid tissues (GALT) on Exon 4 and Exon 5 gene respectively. The presence of hepatomegaly and poor nutritional status instigated us to investigate congenital infections. Positive IgM and IgG values of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in the TORCH profile and a positive urinary polymerase chain reaction confirmed CMV infection, though we were unable to establish whether it was congenital or acquired postnatally. The child was managed with injectable gancyclovir along with supportive therapy which showed partial remission after a period of 10 days and discharge on angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and diuretic. The coexistence of the multiple gene mutations might have caused the severity of the phenotype. Also, identification and treatment at earlier notice might have an impact on the outcome of the disease. The authors emphasize the importance of performing a genetic test in cases of infantile NS and also working up for acquired causes on an individualized basis.

Incidence and outcomes of ventilator associated pneumonia in pediatric patients: an observational study

Background: Ventilator associated pneumonia (VAP) is very common in pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) intubated patients and also responsible for major morbidity and mortality. Usually, it develops after 48 hours of mechanically ventilated patients, its incidence increases as the duration of time increases and it is a major risk factor for VAP. The present study was carried out to know the overall incidence of VAP in mechanically ventilated patients in PICU.Methods: The study was carried out in PICU of the department of pediatrics, B. R. D. Medical College, Gorakhpur from October 2020 to October 2021. Patients aged between 1 year to 15 years were included in the study.Results: There were 50 (59.5%) patients� male and 34 (40.5%) patients� female under investigation. The clinical pulmonary infection score (CPIS) values ranged from the mean value of 4.38�30 at 36th hours to 7.33�92 at 96th hours of intubation. VAP was present in 23 (27.3%) patients while 62 (73.8%) patients were having no VAP. Among VAP associated patients, 14.3% were Acinetobacter positive, 5.95% were Klebsiella positive and 3.57% were E. coli positive.Conclusions: Parameters of CPIS associated with VAP revealed that Acinetobactor was comparative more common organism and the age group of 1 to 5 years was more sensitive. VAP can be reduced by decreasing the duration of mechanical ventilation.