Pattern of use and impact of patient sitters on the quality of healthcare in Saudi Arabia

To assess the pattern of use and impact of patient sitters on the quality of healthcare in Taif Armed Forces Hospital, Taif, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia [KSA]. A cross-sectional survey was conducted at the Armed Forces Hospital, Taif Region, KSA from 1st January to 30th March 2008. The study included 203 admitted patients, 125 patient sitters, and 213 physicians and nurses. Three different questionnaires were specifically designed for each group of participants including information on the pattern and duration of patient sitting, and potential benefits and harm among sitters. Approximately 58.4% of the participating sitters were women, 88% were Saudis, with age range from 17-60 years old, and mean [ +/- standard deviation] of 33.0 [ +/- 9.64] years. More than 73% of the sitters have regular jobs. Types of the room and patient's age were the significant predictors for the presence of sitters. Patient satisfaction was not significantly associated with the presence, or absence of patient sitters. Pattern and use of patient sitters in Saudi Arabia is unique where socio-cultural factors play the most important role. This study is another reminder to the healthcare system in KSA, as well as other Arab countries to develop policies that clearly specify patient criteria that support the decision of patient sitter use

Community-based screening for pre-hypertension among military active duty personnel

To determine the prevalence of both pre-hypertension and hypertension, and risk factors associated with the newly diagnosed Saudi military active duty personnel. A community-based cross-sectional screening of 1238 Saudi military active duty service personnel was conducted during the period from September to December 2007 at the military units of Taif region, western Saudi Arabia. Screening tools included self-administrated questionnaire, general physical examination, anthropometric measurements, and assessment of blood pressure. All participants were Saudi males. Their age ranged from +/- 7.02. By applying the Joint National Committee on prevention, detection, evaluation, and treatment of high hypertension criteria, 214 [17.3%] were considered pre-hypertensive. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that obesity as measured by body mass index [odds ratio [OR]=2.71, confidence interval [CI]: 1.39-5.28], positive family history [OR=1.46, CI: 1.03-2.06], ever smoking [OR=1.45, CI: 1.05-2.02], and increased waist circumference [OR=1.04, CI: 1.02-1.06] were the significant predictors of hypertension among military active duty personnel. Pre-hypertension is a common hidden problem and it predicts the development of frank hypertension. Findings of the current study support the recommendation of lifestyle modification for pre-hypertension patients. However, further prospective studies are required to determine the role of pharmacotherapy in pre-hypertension