Mobile phones of anesthesiologists as reservoirs of nosocomial bacteria in a quaternary teaching hospital: an observational study

Abstract Background: Mobile phones in hospital settings have been identified as an important source of cross-contamination because of the low frequency with which mobile phones are cleaned by health workers and cyclical contamination of the hands and face. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the mobile phones of the anesthesia team at a teaching hospital are potential reservoirs of nosocomial bacteria. In addition, differences in device sanitization and hand hygiene habits between attending and resident anesthesiologists were correlated with mobile phone colonization. Methods: A prevalence study was conducted over a 6-month period from 2017 to 2018 that involved the collection of samples from the mobile phones of the anesthesiology team and culturing for surveillance. A questionnaire was administered to assess the mobile phone sanitization and hand washing routines of the anesthesia team in specific situations. Results: Bacterial contamination was detected for 86 of the 128 mobile phones examined (67.2%). A greater presence of Micrococcus spp. on devices was correlated with a higher frequency of mobile phone use (p = 0.003) and a lower frequency of sanitization (p = 0.003). The presence of bacteria was increased on the mobile phones of professionals who did not perform handwashing after tracheal intubation (p = 0.003). Conclusion: Hand hygiene and device sanitization habits were more important than the use behavior, as a higher presence of bacteria correlated with poorer hygiene habits. Furthermore, handwashing is the best approach to prevent serious colonization of mobile devices and the possible transmission of pathogens to patients under the care of anesthesiologists.

The utility of mobile telephone-recorded videos as adjuncts to the diagnosis of seizures and paroxysmal events in children with suspected epileptic seizures

Background. Epilepsy is often diagnosed through clinical description, but inter-observer interpretations can be diverse and misleading. Objective. To assess the utility of smartphone videos in the diagnosis of paediatric epilepsy.Methods. The literature was reviewed for evidence to support the use of smartphone videos, inclusive of advantages, ethical practice and potential disadvantages. An existing adult-based quality of video (QOV) scoring tool was adapted for use in children. A pilot study used convenience sampling of videos from 25 patients, which were reviewed to assess the viability of the adapted QOV tool against the subsequent diagnosis for the patients with videos. The referral mechanism of the videos was reviewed for the source and consent processes followed. Results. A total of 14 studies were identified. Methodologies varied; only three focused on videos of children, and QOV was formally scored in three. Studies found that smartphone videos of good quality assisted the differentiation of epilepsy from non-epileptic events, especially with accompanying history and with more experienced clinicians. The ethics and risks of circulation of smartphone videos were briefly considered in a minority of the reports. The pilot study found that the adapted QOV tool correlated with videos of moderate and high quality and subsequent diagnostic closure.Conclusions. Data relating to the role of smartphone video of events in children is lacking, especially from low- and middle-income settings. Guidelines for caregivers to acquire good-quality videos are not part of routine practice. The ethical implications of transfer of sensitive material have not been adequately addressed for this group. Prospective multicentre studies are needed to formally assess the viability of the adapted QOV tool for paediatric videos.

How did South Africans with disabilities experience COVID-19? Results of an online survey

Background: People with disabilities are a large, disadvantaged minority, comprising approximately 12% of the population. The South African government has ratified international and regional disability treaties but deals with disability rights within general anti-discrimination legislation. There are no specific frameworks to monitor justice for people with disabilities. The study aims to inform further development of disability inclusive mechanisms relating to crises including pandemics. Objectives: This study explored the perceptions of South Africans with disabilities, to understand their experiences during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), focussing on socioeconomic, well-being and human rights aspects. Method: An online survey tool generated quantitative and qualitative data. Widespread publicity and broad recruitment were achieved through project partners networks. Participants responded via mobile phone and/or online platforms. Results: Nearly 2000 people responded, representing different genders, impairments, races, socio-economic status, education and ages. Findings include: (1) negative economic and emotional impacts, (2) a lack of inclusive and accessible information, (3) reduced access to services, (4) uncertainty about government and non-government agencies' support and (5) exacerbation of pre-existing disadvantages. These findings echo international predictions of COVID-19 disproportionally impacting people with disabilities. Conclusion: The evidence reveals that people with disabilities in South Africa experienced many negative impacts of the pandemic. Strategies to control the virus largely ignored attending to human rights and socioeconomic well-being of this marginalised group. Contribution: The evidence will inform the development of the national monitoring framework, recognised by the South African Government and emphasised by the United Nations as necessary to ensure the realisation of the rights of people with disabilities during future crises including pandemics.

Análise de aplicativos móveis voltados para controle parental: revisão narrativa / Analysis of mobile applications aimed at parental control: narrative review / Análisis de aplicaciones móviles orientadas al control parental: revisión narrativa

Crianças e adolescentes usam a tecnologia móvel para diversas finalidades, como lazer, entretenimento, estudos e comunicação. No entanto, faz-se necessário o controle e mediação parental pois o uso inadequado pode gerar danos à saúde. Existem aplicativos voltados para esta tarefa e com funcionalidades e características variadas. Diante disso, este estudo teve como objetivo analisar as aplicações móveis disponíveis para download na plataforma Google Play Store por meio de uma revisão narrativa e com auxílio do software IRAMUTEQ para revisão dos dados, analisar os comentários deixados pelos usuários. Foram investigadas as informações de 138 aplicativos, boa parte deles realizam funções essenciais, como controlar o tempo de acesso, bloquear sites e apps indesejados, porém, há muitas críticas relacionadas a problemas técnicos, aplicabilidade e prejuízos gerados pelo excessivo controle dos pais. A investigação mostrou que cinco softwares para o controle parental apresentavam as principais funções de acordo com a aplicabilidade (limite de tempo, filtros, localizador GPS, monitoramento de chamadas e mensagens), nota acima de 3,0 e ano de atualização em 2021. A análise dos comentários feita pelo software IRAMUTEQ, destacou as palavras "App" (referente à aplicativo), "filho", "celular", "bloquear", "funcionar", "criança", "instalar" e "desinstalar" como as mais importantes pelos usuários.

Children and teenagers use mobile technology for different purposes, such as leisure, entertainment, studies and communication. However, parental control and mediation is necessary, as inappropriate use can cause health damage. There are applications aimed at this task and with varied functionalities and characteristics. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the mobile applications available for download on the Google Play Store platform through a narrative review and with the help of the IRAMUTEQ software to review the data, analyze the comments left by users. Information from 138 applications was investigated, most of which perform essential functions, such as controlling access time, blocking unwanted websites and apps, however, there are many criticisms related to technical problems, applicability and damage caused by excessive parental control. The investigation showed that five parental control software had the main functions according to applicability (time limit, filters, GPS locator, call and message monitoring), grade above 3.0 and year of update in 2021. The analysis of the comments made by the IRAMUTEQ software, highlighted the words "App" (referring to the application), "son", "cell phone", "block", "work", "child", "install" and "uninstall" as the most important for users.

Los niños y adolescentes utilizan la tecnología móvil para diferentes fines, como el ocio, el entretenimiento, los estudios y la comunicación. Sin embargo, es necesario el control y la mediación parental, ya que un uso inadecuado puede causar daños a la salud. Existen aplicaciones destinadas a esta tarea y con funcionalidades y características variadas. Por lo tanto, este estudio tuvo como objetivo analizar las aplicaciones móviles disponibles para su descarga en la plataforma Google Play Store a través de una revisión narrativa y con la ayuda del software IRAMUTEQ para revisar los datos, analizar los comentarios dejados por los usuarios. Se investigó la información de 138 aplicaciones, la mayoría de las cuales cumplen funciones esenciales, como controlar el tiempo de acceso, bloquear sitios web y apps no deseadas, sin embargo, existen muchas críticas relacionadas con problemas técnicos, de aplicabilidad y daños causados por el excesivo control parental. La investigación mostró que cinco programas de control parental tenían las funciones principales según aplicabilidad (límite de tiempo, filtros, localizador GPS, monitorización de llamadas y mensajes), grado superior a 3.0 y año de actualización en 2021. El análisis de los comentarios realizados por el software IRAMUTEQ, destacó las palabras "App" (refiriéndose a la aplicación), "hijo", "móvil", "bloquear", "trabajar", "niño", "instalar" y "desinstalar" como las más importantes para los usuarios.

Asociación entre tiempo de uso de teléfono celular, nivel de actividad física y rendimiento académico en universitarios / Association between time spent on a cell phone, physical activity level, and academic performance in college students

Introducción: El aumento del uso de teléfono celular y la baja actividad física en universitarios se han asociado a un bajo rendimiento académico. Objetivo: Analizar la relación entre tiempo de uso del teléfono celular, el nivel de actividad física y rendimiento académico en estudiantes universitarios. Materiales y métodos: Estudio de alcance correlacional y temporalidad longitudinal. Participaron 36 estudiantes universitarios, a quienes se evaluó durante un semestre, el tiempo que destinaron al uso de teléfono celular, a través de la aplicación "Moment" y la actividad física mediante la aplicación "Pacer". Se registró el rendimiento académico con el promedio de notas. Resultados: Durante el semestre, los hombres realizaron mayor actividad física y utilizaron por mayor tiempo el teléfono. En periodos de evaluación, las mujeres tuvieron mayor actividad física y menor uso del teléfono celular (p=0,019 y p=0,033, respectivamente). Además, los hombres que tuvieron mejores notas promedio hacían un menor número de pickups diarios (p=0,032). Conclusiones: Los hombres universitarios son físicamente más activos y usan más el celular durante el semestre, aunque en periodo de evaluaciones las mujeres tienden a ser más activas y usar menos tiempo su celular. Los universitarios que usan menos el teléfono celular tienen mejor rendimiento académico.

Introduction: Low academic performance of college students has been associated with an increase in time spent on cell phones and a low physical activity. Objective: To analyze the relationship between time spent on cell phones, physical activity level, and academic performance in college students. Materials and methods: A study with a correlational and longitudinal temporality approach. During a semester, 36 college students were assessed on the time they spent using cell phones and their physical activity levels through the Moment and Pacer applications, respectively. Academic performance was monitored through report cards. Results: Men engaged in more physical activity and used cell phones more frequently during the analyzed period, while women showed higher physical activity levels and lower cell phone usage during evaluation periods (p=0.019 y p=0.033, respectively). Also, men who had better grade averages showed lower number of daily pickups (p=0.032). Conclusions: College men show higher physical activity levels and longer cell phone usage during the semester, while women tend to be more active and use their cell phones less frequently during evaluation periods. College students who use cell phones less regularly also have a better academic performance.

Fonoaudiologia na comunidade em período de pandemia: relato de experiências de estudantes de graduação / Speech Language Therapy in the community during pandemic: report of experiences of undergraduate students / Terapia del lenguaje en la comunidad en periodo de pandemia: informe de experiencias de estudiantes de pregrado

Introdução: A pandemia de Covid-19 tem exigido adaptações e planejamentos constantes das instituições de ensino para a manutenção das atividades acadêmicas. Houve a substituição das disciplinas presenciais por remotas, através das Tecnologias de Informação e Comunicação (TICs). Como as atividades de cunho prático (como estágios acadêmicos) são fundamentais para os estudantes da Saúde, elas também migraram para a forma remota. Diante disso, modelos assíncronos de fornecimento de serviço foram sugeridos e regulamentados nesse período pandêmico. Objetivo: Relatar a experiência de estagiários do curso de Fonoaudiologia da Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto da Universidade de São Paulo na aplicação de atividades remotas direcionadas a escolares e idosos usuários de serviços de Atenção Primária à Saúde, durante a pandemia. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, do tipo relato de experiência. Resultados: Foram elaboradas ações passíveis de realização no ambiente domiciliar, segmentadas em atividades físicas, de linguagem e de memória, todas com abordagem lúdica, fornecendo oportunidades de interação e estimulação/aprimoramento dessas habilidades. Para os estudantes, as experiências foram fundamentais para o desenvolvimento dessa nova metodologia, estimulando sua criatividade. Conclusão:As atividades remotas dirigidas às crianças e idosos permitiram que essas populações fossem amparadas durante a restrição social. O estabelecimento de contato com o público-alvo e a possibilidade de interação com a comunidade foi muito importante para os estudantes. É possível a replicação das ações propostas a qualquer grupo, desde que sejam adequadas à faixa etária.

Introduction: Covid-19 pandemic has required constant adaptations and planning by educational institutions to preserve academic activities. In-person classes were replaced by remote courses through Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). Since practical activities (such as academic internships) are essential for students in the Health Areas, they also migrated to remote classes. Thus, asynchronous models of service provision were suggested and regulated during this pandemic period. Objective: reporting the experience of interns at the Speech Language and Audiology Course at the Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto da Universidade de São Paulo during the development of remote activities aimed at students and elderly users of Primary Health Care services during the pandemic. Methods: This is a descriptive study of the experience report type. Results: Actions that could be performed at home were created, divided into physical, speech and memory activities, all with a playful approach, providing opportunities for interaction and stimulation/improvement of the aforementioned skills. For these students, these experiences were fundamental to the development of this new methodology, stimulating their creativity. Conclusion: Remote activities aimed at children and elderly allowed these populations to be supported during social restriction. The opportunity to establish contact with the target audience and the possibility of keeping up interaction with the community was extremelly important for the students. There is a chance of spreading these actions to any group, if they are adapted according to the group age.

Introducción: La pandemia de Covid-19 ha requerido constantes adaptaciones y planificación de las instituciones educativas para mantener las actividades académicas. Se sustituyeron los cursos presenciales por los remotos, mediante las Tecnologías de la Información y las Comunicaciones (TIC). Como las actividades prácticas (como las prácticas académicas) son fundamentales para los estudiantes de Salud, también ellas han migrado a la forma remota. Por lo tanto, se sugirieron y reglamentaron modelos de prestación de servicios asincrónicos en este período pandémico. Objetivo: Informar la experiencia de los pasantes del Curso de Terapia del Lenguaje de la Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto da Universidade de São Paulo en la aplicación de actividades a distancia dirigidas a estudiantes y usuarios ancianos de los servicios de Atención Primaria durante la pandemia. Métodos: este es un estudio descriptivo, del tipo relato de experiencia. Resultados: Se desarrollaron acciones que se pueden realizar en el ámbito del hogar, segmentadas en actividades físicas, de lenguaje y de memoria, todas con un enfoque lúdico, brindando oportunidades de interacción y estimulación/mejora de las habilidades mencionadas. Para los pasantes, las experiencias fueron fundamentales para el desarrollo de esta nueva metodología, estimulando su creatividad. Conclusión: Las actividades remotas dirigidas a niños y ancianos permitieron apoyar a estas poblaciones durante la restricción social. Establecer contacto con el público objetivo y la posibilidad de interacción con la comunidad fue muy importante para los estudiantes. Es posible replicar las acciones propuestas a cualquier grupo, siempre que sean adaptadas para el grupo de edad.

Adherencia a la medicación mediante el uso del teléfono en pacientes hipertensos crónicos / Use of the telephone to optimize adherence to medication in chronic hypertensive patients

INTRODUCCION: la mitad de los pacientes hipertensos abandona la terapia a partir del primer año del diagnóstico. El uso del teléfono para mejorar la adherencia es aceptado por los pacientes, a través del envío de mensajes a sus celulares o de llamadas telefónicas concertadas, para hacerles recordar la toma de medicación o información sobre su enfermedad. OBJETIVO: evaluar la adherencia al tratamiento mediante recordatorio por teléfono en pacientes hipertensos que retiran sus medicamentos de una Clínica de la seguridad social en Paraguay. METODOLOGÍA: estudio cuasi experimental; aplicando una encuesta y seguimiento mediante contacto telefónico para evaluar la adherencia a la terapia. RESULTADOS: el 50% (n=11) de los pacientes se clasificaron como no adherentes a la terapia farmacológica; al final de las intervenciones se redujo a 9,1%. La causa principal de la falta de adherencia fue el olvido, 90,9%. La adherencia al tratamiento mejoro significativamente luego de las intervenciones. CONCLUSIÓN: la utilización de la tecnología podría constituirse en una herramienta para la prevención primaria en la población con factores de riesgo, y el seguimiento de pacientes con hipertensión arterial.

INTRODUCTION: half of hypertensive patients drop out of therapy from the first year of diagnosis. The use of the telephone to improve adherence is accepted by patients, through sending messages to their cell phones or concerted phone calls, to remind them of taking medication or information about their disease. OBJECTIVE: This work evaluated the use of technology to optimize the adherence of hypertensive patients who withdraw their medicines from a social security clinic in Paraguay. METHODOLOGY: quasi-experimental study; applying a survey and follow-up through telephone contact to evaluate adherence to therapy. RESULTS: 50% (n=11) of patients were classified as non-adherent to drug therapy; at the end of the interventions it was reduced to 9.1%. The main cause of the lack of adherence was forgetfulness, 90.9%. Adherence to treatment improved significantly after interventions. CONCLUSION: the use of technology could be a tool for primary prevention in the population with risk factors, and the monitoring of patients with blood pressure.

Virulence, biofilm formation ability and antimicrobial resistance of staphylococcus aureus isolated from cell phones of university students / Virulência, capacidade de formação de biofilme e resistência antimicrobiana de staphylococcus aureus isolado de telefones celulares de estudantes universitários

INTRODUCTION: Contamination of cell phones can contribute to the dissemination of pathogens in the community and/or hospital environment. OBJECTIVE: To characterize Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated from cell phones of university students. METHODS: Samples were collected from 100 cell phones. Detection of genes associated with virulence factors such as biofilm formation (icaA and icaD), enterotoxins production (SEA, SEB, SEC, and SED), and resistance to methicillin (mecA and mecC) was performed in S. aureus isolates by PCR. Typing mecA gene performed by multiplex PCR. Susceptibility to antimicrobials and biofilm formation rate also evaluated by using disk diffusion test and crystal violet staining. RESULTS: S. aureus was present in 40% of the total samples and about 70% of them belonged to Nursing students. Of the isolates, 85% presented resistance to penicillin and 50% were classified as moderate biofilm producers. In addition, 92.5% of isolates contained the gene icaA and 60% of the gene icaD. Approximately 25% of the isolates presented the mecA gene. Typing of the mecA gene showed the presence of staphylococcal chromosome cassette SCCmec I and c III respectively in 20% and 10% of the isolates. 70% of the samples could not be typed by the technique. Regarding the enterotoxins, the most prevalent gene was SEA (30%) followed by the SEC gene (2.5%). The presence of SED and SEB genes not observed in any of the isolates. CONCLUSION: The cleaning and periodic disinfection of cell phones can contribute to the reduction of the risk of nosocomial infection.

INTRODUÇÃO: A contaminação de celulares pode contribuir para a disseminação de patógenos na comunidade e/ou ambiente hospitalar. OBJETIVO: Caracterizar cepas de Staphylococcus aureus de telefones celulares de estudantes universitários. MÉTODOS: Foram coletadas amostras de 100 telefones celulares. Detecção de genes associados a fatores de virulência quanto a: formação de biofilme (icaA e icaD), produção de enterotoxinas (SEA, SEB, SEC e SED) e resistência à meticilina (mecA e mecC) foi realizada em isolados de S. aureus por PCR. A Tipagem do gene mecA foi realizada por PCR multiplex. A susceptibilidade a antimicrobianos e a taxa de formação de biofilme pelo teste de difusão em disco e coloração com cristal violeta. RESULTADOS: S. aureus esteve presente em 40% do total de amostras, destas, 70% pertenciam a estudantes do curso de enfermagem. Dos isolados, 85% apresentaram resistência à penicilina e 50% foram classificados com moderada formação de biofilme. Além disso, 92,5% dos isolados continham o gene icaA e 60% o gene icaD. Aproximadamente 25% dos isolados apresentaram o gene mecA. A tipagem do gene mecA mostrou a presença do cassete cromossômico estafilocócico SSCmec I e III em respectivamente 20% e 10% dos isolados. 70% das amostras não puderam ser identificadas pela técnica. Das enterotoxinas, o gene mais prevalente foi o SEA (30%), seguido pelo gene SEC (2.5%). A presença dos genes SED e SEB não foi observada nos isolados. CONCLUSÃO: A limpeza e desinfecção periódica dos telefones celulares podem contribuir para a redução do risco de infecção nosocomiais.

Aprendizaje colaborativo en la plataforma WhatsApp y el teléfono celular en tiempos de pandemia / Collaborative learning in the WhatsApp platform and the cellphone during pandemic times

Introducción: La pandemia COVID-19, causada por el virus SARS-CoV-2, y su exponencial crecimiento y migración a todos los continentes del globo terráqueo, provocaron una parálisis en el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje en las instituciones que no contaban con infraestructura en línea para el desarrollo de las actividades docentes de manera virtual. Objetivo: Exponer los retos, las soluciones y los aprendizajes que formaron parte del proceso para preservar las discusiones de casos clínicos en grupos pequeños de estudiantes durante las fases de cuarentena obligatoria de la pandemia en Sudáfrica. Métodos: Se aplicaron las fases de la investigación-acción adaptadas a las prácticas educacionales. En su ejecución participaron los 103 estudiantes del segundo año del grado de bachiller en Medicina y Cirugía, y sus 10 tutores. El módulo de Neurociencias fue el contexto educativo en el período comprendido entre abril y julio de 2020. Resultados: Se crearon chats de comunicación entre los actores del proceso. El módulo se prolongó en duración, y flexibilizó la frecuencia y el horario de las tutorías. Se redujo el número de secciones a develar de los casos y en cada una se introdujeron tareas que guiaron a aplicar contenidos derivados de los objetivos de aprendizaje. Se escogió la aplicación WhatsApp como la plataforma donde se realizarían las sesiones de tutoría. Conclusiones: El desplazamiento del aprendizaje colaborativo de las tutorías a la aplicación WhatsApp convirtió a esta plataforma en un aula virtual accesible en áreas de pobre conectividad. Los reajustes en la extensión y duración de los casos, y las nuevas tareas en sus secciones, se adaptaron a un proceso de asimilación más lento y con más opciones de mediación. Múltiples y variados resultaron los aprendizajes para los actores del proceso; vale destacar el humano y el tecnológico.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, as well as its exponential growth and migration to all continents of the globe, caused a paralysis in the teaching-learning process in institutions that did not have online infrastructure for the development of virtual teaching activities. Objective: To expose the challenges, solutions and learning that were part of the process for preserving clinical case discussions in small groups of students during the mandatory quarantine phases of the pandemic in South Africa. Methods: Action research phases adapted to educational practices were applied. All 103 second-year Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery students and their ten tutors participated in its execution. The Neurosciences module was the educational context in the period from April to July 2020. Results: Communication chats were created between the actors of the process. The module was extended in length, and the frequency and schedule of tutoring sessions was made more flexible. The number of sections to be unveiled from the cases was reduced; each section included guiding tasks for applying contents derived from the learning objectives. The WhatsApp application was chosen as the platform where the tutoring sessions would take place. Conclusions: The shift of collaborative learning from tutorials to the WhatsApp application turned this platform into a virtual classroom accessible in areas of poor connectivity. The length readjustments in the cases, as well as the new tasks in their sections, were adapted to a slower assimilation process and with more mediation options. There were multiple and varied learning experiences for the actors in the process; it is worth highlighting the human and technological aspects.

Uso de celulares e infecções relacionadas à assistência à saúde: revisão integrativa / Cell phone use and healthcare-associated infections: integrative review / Uso de teléfonos celulares e infecciones relacionadas con la atención médica: revisión integradora

: Introdução: Os serviços de saúde têm grande preocupação com qualidade de assistência, segurança do paciente e redução da incidência das infecções relacionadas à assistência à saúde, as quais são consideradas eventos adversos e influenciam o aumento da morbimortalidade. A disseminação do uso de celulares é generalizada, e eles têm se tornado ferramentas de trabalho para profissionais de saúde. Por terem uma superfície de contato direto entre as mãos e outros objetos, tornam-se importante fonte de microrganismos dentro dos ambientes hospitalares. Objetivo: Realizar busca de publicações existentes que relacionam o uso de celulares com as infecções relacionadas à assistência à saúde dentro do ambiente hospitalar. Método: Revisão integrativa, com busca em cinco bases de dados, realizada no período entre março e abril de 2021. Resultados: Foram incluídos 17 artigos, publicados na língua inglesa em periódicos internacionais, entre 2016 e 2021. Conclusão: Identificou-se em todos os artigos a ocorrência de contaminação dos celulares. Evidenciou-se também que a descontaminação frequente dos celulares e a higiene das mãos são indicadas para reduzir o risco de infecção.

Introduction: Health services are very concerned with quality of care, patient safety and reduction of the incidence of infections related to health care, which are considered adverse events and influence the increase in morbidity and mortality. The widespread use of cell phones is widespread, and they have become work tools for healthcare professionals. As they have a direct contact surface between hands and other objects, they become an important source of microorganisms within hospital environments. Objective: To conduct a search for existing publications that relate the use of cell phones with infections related to health care within the hospital environment. Method: Integrative review, with a search in five databases, carried out between March and April 2021. Results: 17 articles were included, published in English in international journals, between 2016 and 2021. Conclusion: Identified in all articles the occurrence of cell phone contamination. It was also shown that frequent decontamination of cell phones and hand hygiene are indicated to reduce the risk of infection.

Introducción: Los servicios de salud están muy preocupados por la calidad de la atención, la seguridad del paciente y la reducción de la incidencia de infecciones relacionadas con la atención de la salud (IRAS), que son consideradas eventos adversos e influyen en el aumento de la morbimortalidad. El uso generalizado de los teléfonos celulares está muy extendido y se han convertido en herramientas de trabajo para los profesionales de la salud. Al tener una superficie de contacto directo entre las manos y otros objetos, se convierten en una fuente importante de microorganismos dentro de los ambientes hospitalarios. Objetivo: Realizar una búsqueda de publicaciones existentes que relacionen el uso de teléfonos celulares con IRAS dentro del ámbito hospitalario. Método: Revisión integradora, con búsqueda en cinco bases de datos, realizada entre marzo y abril de 2021. Resultados: se incluyeron 17 artículos, publicados en inglés en revistas internacionales, entre 2016 y 2021. Conclusión: Se identificó la ocurrencia de contaminación de celulares en todos los artículos. También mostraron que la descontaminación frecuente de los teléfonos celulares y la higiene de manos están indicadas para reducir el riesgo de infección

Use of a mobile application for the control of anticoagulation with warfarin: a cluster randomized controlled clinical trial - Ijui/RS/Brazil

Abstract To evaluate the effectiveness of an anticoagulation protocol adapted in a mobile application (appG) for patients using warfarin. This was a cluster randomized controlled clinical trial carried out in basic health centers of Ijui, RS, Brazil, between April and October 2017. The appG was installed on the cell phones of all physicians belonging to the intervention group. Primary outcomes were bleeding and thrombosis, and secondary outcomes were changes in the dose of warfarin, use of new drugs, drug interactions, search for health services, and remaining on the target international normalized ratio. Thirty-three patients belonging to 11 basic health centers were included in this study. From these, 15 patients were in the intervention group which used the appG, and 18 were in the control group. After 6 months, patients in the appG group had fewer bleeding events (7% versus 50%, p-value=0.028) and a lower weekly dose of warfarin (29.3 ± 9.7 mg versus 41.7 ± 12.5 mg, p-value=0.030) when compared to the control group. The anticoagulation protocol adapted in a mobile app reduced bleeding in patients using warfarin.

O significado do uso de telas entre adolescentes: causas e consequências / El significado del uso de pantallas entre adolescentes: causas y consecuencias / The signification of the use of screens among adolescents: causes and consequences

RESUMO Objetivo: compreender o significado do uso de telas atribuído pelos adolescentes. Métodos: o presente estudo foi descritivo exploratório, com abordagem qualitativa e referencial teórico-metodológico do interacionismo simbólico. Participaram adolescentes de uma escola pública mineira. Os dados foram coletados através de entrevistas e grupos focais realizados de forma online e analisados conforme a análise temática no período deagosto a dezembro de 2020. Resultados: participaram oito adolescentescom idades entre 14 e 17 anos, que cursavam o ensino médioe relataram que a tela mais usada foi o celular. Os significados atribuídos ao uso de telas estiveram relacionados à possibilidade de interação e praticidade por possibilitar a realização de várias atividades. Houve o reconhecimento que, diante do uso excessivo, é preciso ter momento distante da tela. Após a análise foram desveladas três categorias: 1. Tela é diversidade 2. Tela é interação, 3. É bom parar um pouco. Considerações finais: a pesquisa mostrou que distanciar-se das telas é difícil e que a presença de profissionais da saúde, particularmente relacionados à saúde do adolescente, pode ajudá-los a encontrar alternativas para usar as telas com redução das consequências negativas.

RESUMEN Objetivo: comprender el significado del uso de pantallas asignado por los adolescentes. Métodos: el presente estudio fue descriptivo exploratorio, con abordaje cualitativo y referencial teórico-metodológico del interaccionismo simbólico. Participaron adolescentes de una escuela pública de Minas Gerais-Brasil. Los datos fueron recolectados a través de entrevistas y grupos focales realizados en forma online y analizados conforme el análisis temático en el período de agosto a diciembre de 2020. Resultados: participaron ocho adolescentes con edades entre 14 y 17 años, que cursaban la enseñanza secundaria y relataron que la pantalla más usada fue el celular. Los significados atribuidos al uso de pantallas estuvieron relacionados a la posibilidad de interacción y practicidad por posibilitar la realización de varias actividades. Hubo el reconocimiento de que, ante el uso excesivo, es necesario tener momento alejado de la pantalla. Después del análisis surgieron tres categorías: 1. La pantalla es diversidad; 2. La pantalla es interacción; 3. Es bueno detenerse un poco. Consideraciones finales: la investigación ha demostrado que distanciarse de las pantallas es difícil y que la presencia de profesionales de la salud, particularmente involucrados con la salud del adolescente, puede ayudarles a encontrar alternativas para usar las pantallas con reducción de las consecuencias negativas.

ABSTRACT Objective: to understand the signification of the use of screens attributed by adolescents. Methods: the current study was descriptive and exploratory, with a qualitative approach and theoretical-methodological framework of symbolic interactionism. Adolescents from a public school in Minas Gerais participated in it. Data were collected through interviews and focus groups carried out online and analyzed according to thematic analysis in the period from August to December 2020. Results: it had the participation of eight adolescents aged between 14 and 17 years, who attended high school and reported that the most used screen was the cell phone. The significations attributed to the use of screens were related to the possibility of interaction and practicality for allowing the performance of various activities. There was recognition that, in the face of excessive use, it is necessary to have a moment away from the screen. After the analysis, three categories were revealed: 1. Screen is diversity 2. Screen is interaction, 3. It is good to stop for a while. Final considerations: research has shown that distance from screens is difficult and the presence of health professionals, particularly related to adolescent health, can help them to find alternatives to use screens with reduced negative consequences.

A review of teleradiology in Africa ­ Towards mobile teleradiology in Nigeria

eHealth is promoted as a means to strengthen health systems and facilitate universal health coverage. Sub-components (e.g. telehealth, telemedicine, mhealth) are seen as mitigators of healthcare provider shortages and poor rural and remote access. Teleradiology (including mobile teleradiology), widespread in developed nations, is uncommon in developing nations. Decision- and policy-makers require evidence to inform their decisions regarding implementation of mobile teleradiology in Nigeria and other subSaharan countries. To gather evidence, Scopus and PubMed were searched using defined search strings (September 2020). Duplicates were removed, and titles and abstracts reviewed using specified selection criteria. Full-text papers of selected resources were retrieved and reviewed against the criteria. Insight from included studies was charted for eight a priori categories of information: needs assessment, implementation, connectivity, evaluation, costing, image display, image capture and concordance. Fifty-seven articles were identified, duplicates removed and titles and abstracts of remaining articles reviewed against study criteria. Twenty-six papers remained. After review of full-texts, ten met the study criteria. These were summarised, and key insights for the eight categories were charted. Few papers have been published on teleradiology in sub-Saharan Africa. Teleradiology, including mobile teleradiology, is feasible in sub-Saharan Africa for routine X-ray support of patients and healthcare providers in rural and remote locations. Former technical issues (image quality, transmission speed, image compression) have been largely obviated through the high-speed, high-resolution digital imaging and network transmission capabilities of contemporary smartphones and mobile networks, where accessible. Comprehensive studies within the region are needed to guide the widespread introduction of mobile teleradiology.

Mobile Phone-based intervention to promote un-interrupted HIV treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic

Introduction: Keeping HIV-infected adults away from the health care system during the COVID-19 travel restrictions, presents a challenge to HIV treatment adherence. Methods: This study focused on the initial two phases where Phase 1 designed a Makerere College of Health Sciences (MakCHS) Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD)-based application; and Phase 2 piloted patient enrolment onto the application and determined the feasibility of remote follow-up of patients receiving long-term antiretroviral therapy (ART). Results: A off/online user application, MakCHS Health app, was developed. Overall, 112 patients [(66(59%) female] receiving ART at Mulago ISS clinic, Kampala, were enrolled onto the MakCHS Health app. Up to 89 (80%) utilized the app to access medical help. Patients' medical queries included needs for drug refills, missed taking HIV medication, medical illnesses, access to COVID-19 vaccination and other personal needs that required clinicians' attention. Conclusion: Piloting a MakCHS Health application for patient follow-up was feasible and well-received by HIV treatment providers and patients receiving ART. We recommend scale up of the application to enroll all patients receiving long-term treatment for HIV/AIDS, and subsequently expand to. other HIV treatment programs in similar settings

Mobile phone usage among nigerians: risk factors for musculoskeletal injuries and preventive strategies

Aims: The increase in the usage of hand-held devices (HHDs) and smartphones (SPs), especially in Nigeria has resulted in an upsurge of musculoskeletal complaints. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence and risk factors for musculoskeletal injuries due to mobile phone usage among Nigerians and the preventive strategies. Materials and Methods: This study involved 630 male and female participants above 18 years old who were purposively recruited across designated study centres in public places. The instrument used was a questionnaire specifically designed to suit the Nigerian culture and environment and developed from previously validated questionnaires. Data were exported to Statistical Computing Programming R version 4.0.5 for analysis and Chi-square was used to compare the characteristics of those who experienced injury using SPs/HHDS and those who did not. Independent variables with a 95% confidence level and P < 0.05 in the multivariate model were considered statistically significant. Results: The most common daily use of SPs/HHDS by the participants was phone calls (98.4%) followed closely by social networking (96.0%) while the occupation and educational level of the participants had statistically significant (P < 0.05) impact on musculoskeletal injuries. The type of mobile device and the time spent using these devices were also significant (P < 0.05) risk factors for injuries. Some self­treatment strategies adopted by the participants were all significantly (P < 0.05) associated with reduction of musculoskeletal discomfort. Conclusion: The occupation, educational level, the types of mobile devices and time spent using the devices were risk factors for musculoskeletal injuries

Mobile phones of hospital workers: a potential reservoir for the transmission of pathogenic bacteria

Background: Mobile phones are increasingly associated with the transmission of pathogenic microbial agents. In the clinical setting where there is usually high exposure to pathogens, these devices may serve as vehicles for the transmission/spread of pathogens. This study determined the prevalence of bacterial contamination of mobile phones of health workers and the predisposing factors, in order to ascertain the risk of transmission of pathogenic bacteria through mobile phones. Methodology: This study was carried out in a private medical center at Mbouda, Cameroon, involving 78 health workers including health professionals (nurses, physicians, laboratory scientists) and hospital support workers (cleaners, cashiers and security guards), recruited by convenient sampling. Sterile swab sticks moistened with physiological saline were used to swab about three quarter of the surface of each phone. The swabs were cultured on MacConkey and Mannitol Salt agar plates which were incubated aerobically at 37oC for 24 hours, while Chocolate agar plate was incubated in a candle extinction jar for microaerophilic condition. The isolates were identified using standard biochemical tests including catalase, coagulase, and the analytical profile index (API) system. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0. Results: Mobile phones of 75 of the 78 (96.2%) health workers were contaminated, with highest contamination rates for the phones of laboratory scientists (100%, 12/12), followed by support staff (98.9%, 13/14), nurses (97.7%, 43/44) and physicians (87.3%, 7/8), but the difference in contamination rates was not statistically significant (p=0.349). A total of 112 bacteria belonging to 12 genera were isolated, with predominance of Staphylococcus aureus (31.3%, n=35), Micrococcus spp (30.4%, n=34), coagulase negative staphylococci (10.7%, n=12) and Pseudomonas spp (5.4%, n=6). The laboratory (18.8%, 21/112) and medical wards (16.1%, 18/112) had the highest bacterial contamination of mobile phones (p=0.041), and more bacterial species were isolated from smartphones (68.8%, n=77/112) than keypad phones (31.2%, n=35/112) (p=0.032). There was no significant difference between phone contamination rates and the practice of hand hygiene or decontamination of work surfaces (p>0.05). Conclusion: The presence of potentially pathogenic bacteria on cell phones of health-care workers emphasizes the role of fomites in the transmission of infectious diseases. Consequently, good hand hygiene and decontamination practices are encouraged among health workers in order to limit the spread of hospital-acquired infections.

Design and Application of Home Wireless Electrocardiograph Machine Based on Internet / 中国医疗器械杂志

This study introduces the design and application of home wireless electrocardiograph(ECG) machine based on Internet. The world's first three-lead dry electrode mobile electrocardiograph machine has been developed, on the basis of the successful development of dry electrodes. Moreover, it is not only chips filtering, but also wireless, as a result it is applied to ECG monitoring and diagnosis of patients. Compared with traditional electrocardiograph machine, the machine is very convenient and comes into the home, ECG Machines is connected to mobile phones by Bluetooth, wireless upload, therefore we recommend to achieve remote monitoring and early warning and reduce sudden death, to achieve Internet medical by using Internet technology, people can be self-test. It is playing an increasingly important role and it is an inevitable machine to improve the success rate of diagnosis, monitoring and first aid.

Development of a Wireless Wearable Body Temperature Measurement System Based on NTC / 中国医疗器械杂志

Body temperature is an important physiological parameter of the human body and is used in medicine to reflect the physiological state and health status of the human body. At present, the commonly used clinical thermometers on the market are mainly divided into contact and non-contact types. Most of them are used for rapid body temperature measurement, and it is not easy to monitor body temperature changes in real time. This article introduces a new wearable wireless body temperature monitoring system based on NTC, which senses through NTC. The temperature changes are amplified and filtered, zeroed, and calibrated, and then the temperature data is uploaded to the mobile phone APP via Bluetooth in real time to achieve real-time accurate measurement of body temperature.

Efecto del uso de mensajes de texto en dispositivos de telefonía móvil en la adherencia al tratamiento de hipertensión arterial / Effect of mobile phone text messaging on adherence to hypertension treatment

La hipertensión arterial es una de las enfermedades crónicas de mayor incidencia a nivel mundial, produce una importante mortalidad y discapacidad. Este trabajo tuvo por objetivo evaluar el efecto del uso de mensajes de texto en dispositivos de telefonía móvil en la adherencia al tratamiento de hipertensión arterial. Se efectuó un estudio de intervención cuasiexperimental, de antes y después, en el cual se entrevistó a pacientes que pertenecían a un programa ambulatorio de enfermedades crónicas. Se formaron 4 grupos, uno de ellos, el grupo control. A los grupos intervenidos se les remitieron mensajes de texto (educativos/motivadores), con diferentes frecuencias de envío, por un período de 2 meses. Al término de la intervención, se pidió llenar el cuestionario Martín-Bayarre-Grau para determinar su adherencia al tratamiento antihipertensivo antes y después de la intervención. Se realizó un análisis bivariado, en el cual se comparó la variable adherencia al tratamiento, antes y después de la intervención, de los cuatro grupos del estudio. Se encontró solo una diferencia significativa en el grupo 3 (p = 0,011), al cual se le enviaron 8 mensajes al mes (2 por semana). También se comparó, después de los 2 meses, a los grupos sometidos a intervención versus el grupo control; se halló una diferencia significativa en el grupo 3 (p = 0,022). La intervención ha demostrado ser útil para mejorar la adherencia en esta población de estudio. Se obtuvo una respuesta positiva en el grupo 3, que recibió 8 mensajes al mes(AU)

Hypertension is one of the chronic diseases with the highest incidence worldwide and a cause of considerable mortality and disability. This paper aims to evaluate the effect of mobile phone text messaging on adherence to hypertension treatment. A quasi-experimental before-after intervention was conducted based on interviews with patients from a chronic disease outpatient program. Four groups were formed, one of which was the control group. The groups intervened were sent encouraging educational text messages at varying frequencies for a period of two months. At the close of the intervention, participants were asked to fill in the Martín Bayarre Grau questionnaire to determine their adherence to antihypertensive treatment before and after the intervention. A bivariate analysis was performed comparing the variable adherence to treatment before and after the intervention in the four study groups. A significant difference was only found in Group 3 (p = 0.011). This group was sent eight messages per month (two messages per week). Additionally, a comparison between the intervention groups and the control group conducted at two months found a significant difference in Group 3 (p = 0.022). The intervention proved was useful to improve adherence in the study population. A positive response was obtained in Group 3, who received eight messages per month(AU)

O uso de aplicativo de celular para medir frequência cardíaca e saturação periférica de oxigênio / The use of cellular application to measure heart rate and peripheral oxygen saturation

Avaliar a associação da medida de frequência cardíaca (FC) e saturação periférica de oxigênio (SpO2 ) utilizando um aplicativo de celular e um monitor multiparamétrico. Métodos: Estudo experimental e randomizado entre participantes saudáveis. Investigou o aplicativo Samsung Health® e o monitor multiparamétrico da marca Midway®, modelo: PM-60. O estudo foi estruturado em quatro etapas. Para análise estatística, aplicou correlação de Pearson e Spearman, com nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: Dos 150 participantes a idade média foi de 22,3±4,5 anos, o sexo feminino foi predominante (71,3%). Verificouse forte correlação da FC medida pelo monitor com a FC do aplicativo de celular (r=0,93) indicando correlação positiva (p<0,001). A SpO2 medida por monitor multiparamétrico e pelo aplicativo de celular revelou um r=0,05 (p=0,51), o que atesta uma correlação nula e não significativa. Conclusão: Não houve correlação entre a medida da SpO2 do monitor multiparamétrico e do aplicativo Samsung Health®, não sendo confiável a utilização deste aplicativo para monitorar e gerenciar o sinal vital SpO2 em pessoas saudáveis. A FC medida com o aplicativo é significativa, e pode ser utilizada para monitorar e gerenciar esse sinal vital.

Assess the association of the measure of heart rate (HR) and oxygen saturation (SpO2 ) using a mobile application and a multiparameter monitor. Methods: Study experimental and randomized healthy participants. Investigated the application Samsung Health® and multiparameter monitor Midway® make, model: PM-60. The study was divided into four stages. Statistical analysis was applied Pearson and Spearman correlation with 5% significance level. Results: Of the 150 participants average age was 22.3±4.5 years, females were predominant (71.3%). There was a strong correlation HR measured by the monitor application to cell FC (r=0.93) indicating a positive correlation (p<0.001). SpO2 measured by multiparameter monitor and the mobile application revealed r=0.05 (p=0.51), which demonstrates a zero and no significant correlation. Conclusion: There was no correlation between the SpO2 measurement of the multiparameter monitor and the Samsung Health® app, not being trusted to use this application to monitor and manage the vital sign SpO2 in healthy people. The HR measured with the application is significant, and can be used to monitor and manage this vital sign.