Behind the Headset: Predictive Accuracy of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures for Voice Symptoms in Call Centers

Objective: This study examines factors predicting self-reported voice symptoms in call center workers. Methods: Multivariate analysis and predictive modeling assess personal, work-related, acoustic, and behavioral factors. Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves are employed. Results: Age and sleep patterns impacted voice quality and effort, while workplace factors influenced symptom perception. Unhealthy vocal behaviors related to tense voice and increased effort, while hydration was protective. Voice acoustics showed diagnostic potential, supported by ROC data. These findings emphasize voice symptom complexity in call center professionals, necessitating comprehensive assessment. Limitations: This study recognizes its limitations, including a moderate-sized convenience sample and reliance on PROM metrics. Future research should incorporate more objective measures in addition to self-reports and acoustic analysis. Value: This research provides novel insights into the interplay of personal, occupational, and voice-related factors in developing voice symptoms among call center workers. Predictive modeling enhances risk assessment and understanding of individual susceptibility to voice disorders. Conclusion: Results show associations between various factors and self-reported voice symptoms. Protective factors include sleeping more than six hours and consistent hydration, whereas risk factors include working conditions, such as location and behaviors like smoking. Diagnostic models indicate good accuracy for some voice symptom PROMs, emphasizing the need for comprehensive models considering work factors, vocal behaviors, and acoustic parameters to understand voice issues complexity.

Objetivo: Este estudio examina los factores que predicen los síntomas de voz en los trabajadores de call centers. Métodos: Se utilizan análisis multivariados y modelos predictivos para evaluar factores personales, laborales, acústicos y de comportamiento. Se emplean Modelos Lineales Generalizados (GLM) y curvas ROC. Resultados: La edad y los patrones de sueño afectaron la calidad vocal y el esfuerzo, mientras que los factores laborales influyeron en la percepción de síntomas. Los comportamientos vocales no saludables se relacionaron con voz tensa y mayor esfuerzo, mientras que la hidratación fue protectora. Los parámetros acústicos de voz mostraron potencial diagnóstico respaldado por datos de ROC. Los hallazgos subrayan complejidad de síntomas vocales en profesionales de centros de llamadas, requiriendo una evaluación integral. Limitaciones: Este estudio reconoce sus limitaciones, que incluyen una muestra de conveniencia de tamaño moderado y la dependencia de medidas PROMs. Futuras investigaciones deberían incorporar medidas objetivas, además de los autorreportes y análisis acústico. Importancia: Esta investigación aporta nuevos conocimientos sobre factores personales, laborales y síntomas de voz en trabajadores de call centers. El modelado predictivo mejora la evaluación de riesgos y la comprensión de la susceptibilidad individual a trastornos de la voz. Conclusión: Los resultados muestran asociaciones entre diversos factores y los síntomas vocales reportados. Los factores de protección incluyen dormir más de seis horas y una hidratación constante; los factores de riesgo incluyen las condiciones de trabajo, como la ubicación y comportamientos como fumar. Los modelos de diagnóstico indican una buena precisión para algunas PROMs de síntomas de la voz, lo que subraya la necesidad de modelos integrales que tengan en cuenta los factores laborales, los comportamientos vocales y los parámetros acústicos para comprender la complejidad de los problemas de la voz.

Prevalência e fatores de riscos relacionados a comportamentos suicidas em profissionais do sexo / Prevalencia y factores de riesgo relacionados con la conducta suicidal en trabajadores sexuales / Prevalence and risk factors related to suicidal behavior in sex workers

Introdução: O trabalho sexual consentido é, historicamente, permeado por estigmas, proporcionando a marginalização social de profissionais do sexo e sua maior exposição a fatores de riscos que tendenciam a condutas suicidas. Objetivo: Identificar a prevalência e dos fatores de riscos relacionados a comportamentos suicidas em profissionais do sexo, tendo em vista a vulnerabilidade social desse grupo. Metodologia: Este estudo é uma revisão integrativa de literatura, determinada a partir da seguinte questão de pesquisa: "Qual a prevalência e os fatores de riscos relacionados a comportamentos suicidas entre profissionais do sexo?". Em seguida, aplicou os subsequentes Descritores em Ciências da Saúde: "Suicide" e "Sex workers", que foram combinados com o operador booleano "AND", nas plataformas National Library of Medicine, Science Direct, Portal de Periódicos da Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior, Literatura Latino-americana e do Caribe, Scientific Eletronic Library Online, BioMed Central, Business Source Completee WorldWideScience. Foram selecionados 19 artigos relacionados ao objeto de estudo. Resultados: A prevalência de suicídio em profissionais do sexo foi classificada em três subcategorias: tentativas de suicídio, com predominância de 31,57% (n=6), ideação suicida com 15,78% (n=3) e o risco de suicídio com 5,26% (n=1). Os riscos de comportamentos suicidas foram associados a diversos fatores, sobretudo a violência (47,36%; n=9), depressão (26,31%; n=5) e a pobreza (15,78%; n=3). Conclusões: Há uma alta prevalência de comportamentos suicidas em profissionais do sexo que está associada a diversos fatores de riscos, verificando a carência de abordagens comunitárias direcionadas à vulnerabilidade social desse grupo (AU).

Introduction: Consensual sex work has historically been permeated by stigma, leading to the social marginalization of sex workers and their increased exposure to risk factors that tend to correlate with suicidal behaviors. Objective:To explore the prevalence and risk factors related to suicidal behavior in sex workers, considering the social vulnerability of this group. Methodology: This study is an integrative literature review, guided by the research question: "What is the prevalence and risk factors related to suicidal behaviors among sex workers?" The following Health Science Descriptors were applied: "Suicide" and "Sex workers," combined with the boolean operator "AND," on platforms such as the National Library of Medicine, Science Direct, Portal de Periódicos da Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior, Literatura Latino-americana e do Caribe, Scientific Eletronic Library Online, BioMed Central, Business Source Complete, and WorldWideScience. Nineteen articles related to the study's objectivewere selected. Results:The prevalence of suicide among sex workers were classified into three subcategories: suicide attempts, with a predominance of 31.57% (n=6), suicidal ideation with 15.78% (n=3) and the risk of suicide with a prevalence of 5.26% (n=1). The risks of suicidal behavior were associated with several factors, especially violence (47,36%; n=9), depression (26.31%; n=5) and poverty (15.78% /n=3). Conclusions: There is a high prevalence of suicidal behaviors among sex workers, associated with various risk factors, highlighting the need for community-based approaches addressing the social vulnerability of this group (AU).

Introducción: El trabajo sexual consensuado ha estado históricamente impregnado de estigmas, llevando a la marginación social de los profesionales del sexo y a una mayor exposición a factores de riesgo que tienden a asociarse con conductas suicidas. Objetivo: Identificar la prevalencia y los factores de riesgo relacionados con comportamientos suicidas en profesionales del sexo, considerando la vulnerabilidad social de este grupo. Metodología: Este estudio es una revisión integradora de la literatura, derivada de la siguiente pregunta de investigación: "¿Cuál es laprevalencia y los factores de riesgo relacionados con comportamientos suicidas entre los profesionales del sexo?". Posteriormente, se aplicaron los siguientes Descriptores en Ciencias de la Salud: "Suicide" y "Sex workers", combinados con el operador booleano "AND", en plataformas como la Biblioteca Nacional de Medicina, Science Direct, Portal de Periódicos de la Coordinación de Perfeccionamiento de Personal de Nivel Superior, Literatura Latinoamericana y del Caribe, Scientific Electronic Library Online, BioMed Central, Business Source Complete y WorldWideScience. Se seleccionaron 19 artículos relacionados con el objeto de estudio. Resultados: La prevalencia de suicidio en profesionales del sexo se clasificó en tres subcategorías: intentos de suicidio, con una predominancia del 31,57% (n=6), ideación suicida con el 15,78% (n=3) y el riesgo de suicidio con el 5,26% (n=1). Los riesgos de comportamientos suicidas se asociaron con varios factores, especialmente la violencia (47,36%; n=9), la depresión (26,31%; n=5) y la pobreza (15,78%; n=3). Conclusiones: Existe una alta prevalencia de comportamientos suicidas en profesionales del sexo asociada con diversos factores de riesgo, destacando la necesidad de enfoques comunitarios dirigidos a la vulnerabilidad social de este grupo (AU).

Efecto de un programa de autocuidado en hábitos de vida saludable con relación a la obesidad en personal de salud de una institución de tercer nivel / Efeito de um programa de autocuidado nos hábitos de vida saudáveis em relação à obesidade em profissionais de saúde de uma instituição terciária / Effect of a self-care program on healthy lifestyle habits in relation to obesity in health personnel of a tertiary institution

Introducción. A nivel mundial, la obesidad es considerada como un problema de salud pública debido a que afecta a la población de todas las edades, incluso al mismo personal que trabaja en instituciones de salud, situación que repercute en su ámbito personal, familiar, pero sobre todo laboral, causando en el trabajador dificultad para realizar algunos procedimientos, ausentismo laboral, discapacidad parcial o total y/o necesidad de cuidado, entre otros.  Objetivo.  Evaluar el efecto de una intervención de autocuidado en hábitos de vida saludable con relación a la obesidad en personal de salud de una institución de tercer nivel.  Metodología. Estudio cuasi experimental, muestra 30 trabajadores con sobrepeso o algún grado de obesidad de una institución de salud de tercer nivel. Se impartieron 10 temas con relación a la obesidad, para cambiar hábitos deficientes por hábitos saludables, además de 10 sesiones de actividad física.    Resultados. Al final de la intervención, dos personas bajaron el nivel de su índice de masa corporal, una persona con obesidad grado III y una de grado II bajaron a peso normal. En cuanto a las medidas antropométricas posterior a la intervención, hubo reducción en cada uno de los parámetros, referente a la evaluación del cuestionario hábitos de vida saludable, relacionados con la obesidad posterior a la intervención, se encontraron cambios positivos en cada una de las dimensiones. Sin embargo, tanto en la reducción de IMC, así como en las dimensiones del cuestionario, la diferencia encontrada, no fue estadísticamente significativa.  Conclusiones. Los resultados sugieren que una intervención educativa en hábitos de vida saludable vinculados con la obesidad en personal de salud, son eficaces para contribuir al autocuidado de los trabajadores en el ámbito laboral

Introduction. Worldwide, obesity is considered a public health problem because it affects the population of all ages, including the same personnel who work in health institutions, a situation that has repercussions in their personal and family environment, but above all at work, causing the worker difficulty in performing some procedures, absenteeism, partial or total disability and/or need for care, among others. Objective. To evaluate the effect of a self-care intervention on healthy life habits in relation to obesity in health personnel of a third level institution. Methodology. Quasi-experimental study, sample of 30 workers with overweight or some degree of obesity in a tertiary health institution. Ten topics related to obesity were taught in order to change deficient habits for healthy habits, in addition to 10 sessions of physical activity. Results. At the end of the intervention, two people lowered their body mass index level, one person with grade III obesity and one with grade II obesity lowered to normal weight. Regarding the anthropometric measures after the intervention, there was a reduction in each one of the parameters, regarding the evaluation of the healthy life habits questionnaire, related to obesity after the intervention, positive changes were found in each one of the dimensions. However, both in the reduction of BMI and in the dimensions of the questionnaire, the difference found was not statistically significant. Conclusions. The results suggest that an educational intervention on healthy lifestyle habits related to obesity in health personnel is effective in contributing to the self-care of workers in the workplace

Introdução. A nível mundial, a obesidade é considerada um problema de saúde pública porque afecta a população de todas as idades, incluindo o próprio pessoal que trabalha nas instituições de saúde, situação que tem repercussões no seu ambiente pessoal e familiar, mas sobretudo no trabalho, causando ao trabalhador dificuldade na realização de alguns procedimentos, absentismo, incapacidade parcial ou total e/ou necessidade de cuidados, entre outros. Objectivos. Avaliar o efeito de uma intervenção de autocuidado sobre hábitos de vida saudáveis em relação à obesidade em profissionais de saúde de uma instituição de cuidados terciários. Metodologia. Estudo quase-experimental, amostra de 30 trabalhadores com excesso de peso ou algum grau de obesidade numa instituição de saúde terciária. Foram ensinados dez temas relacionados com a obesidade, com o objetivo de mudar hábitos deficientes por hábitos saudáveis, além de 10 sessões de atividade física. Resultados. No final da intervenção, duas pessoas baixaram o índice de massa corporal, uma pessoa com obesidade de grau III e uma com obesidade de grau II passaram para o peso normal. Relativamente às medidas antropométricas após a intervenção, verificou-se uma redução em cada um dos parâmetros, e relativamente à avaliação do questionário de hábitos de vida saudáveis relacionados com a obesidade após a intervenção, verificaram-se alterações positivas em cada uma das dimensões. No entanto, tanto na redução do IMC como nas dimensões do questionário, a diferença encontrada não foi estatisticamente significativa. Conclusões. Os resultados sugerem que uma intervenção educativa sobre hábitos de vida saudáveis ligados à obesidade no pessoal de saúde é eficaz para contribuir para o autocuidado dos trabalhadores no local de trabalho

Evaluation by community health agents of the attributes of Primary Health Care for fighting leprosy: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether the attributes of Primary Healthcare are present in leprosy control actions in Londrina from Community Health Workers' (CHW) perspectives. METHOD: Observational and evaluative study. Data collection occurred between January and March 2020 in Londrina, Paraná, using the questionnaire "Primary Care Assessment Tool (PCATool) - Hansen's disease - CHW version" and a population-based census of 246 CHWs from 52 Primary Healthcare Units. The analyses used a cutoff point (≥ 6.6), central tendency, and dispersion measures. One-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc tests were used to analyze differences. Results: The general performance towards the primary healthcare attributes were evaluated as strong (mean = 6.95 / SD = 1.08) and the essential score (mean = 7.39 / SD = 1.0). On the other hand, the derived score was evaluated as poor (mean = 6.07 / sd = 1.06). Concerning the Access attribute, the rural zone had a lower score than the urban (mean = 4.47 / SD = 1.63). Conclusion: The study highlights issues that can be improved, such as first contact access, catalog of services offered to leprosy patients, information provided to the community, professional training, and differences in PHC performance between urban and rural regions.

Willingness of WHO staff to work in health emergencies in the African Region: opportunity for phased deployment of staff and ensure continuity of health services

A human resource base that ensures appropriate deployment of staff to emergencies, addressing different shock events in emergencies, without disrupting continuity of service is germane to a successful response. Consequently, the WHO Health Emergencies programme in the African Region, in collaboration with Africa Centre for Disease Control (ACDC) launched the African Volunteer Health Corps (AVoHC) and Strengthening and Utilization of Response Group for Emergencies (SURGE), an initiative aimed at ensuring a pool of timely responders. We explored the willingness of WHO staff to work in emergencies. A call for expression of interest to be part of the Elite Emergency Experts (Triple E) was published on 5th July 2022 via email and was open for 5 weeks. The responses were analyzed using simple descriptive statistics and presented with graphic illustrations. A total of 1253 WHO staff, from all the six WHO regions, cutting across all cadre, applied to the call. The applicants had various trainings and experiences in emergency and have responded to mostly disease outbreaks. Two-third of the applicants were males. This paper did not explore reasons for the willingness to work in emergencies. However, contrary to fears expressed in literature that health workers would not want to work in emergencies with potential for infections, the applicants have worked mostly in infectious emergencies. Literature identified some themes on factors that could impact on willingness of health workers to work in emergencies. These include concerns for the safety of the responders and impact of partners, child and elderly care, as well as other family obligations, which emergency planners must consider in planning emergency response.

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

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

Fast-track interventions for HIV and AIDS epidemic control among key populations: A rapid review

Background: Despite measures put in place to combat teenage pregnancy, the rate remains high. Community health workers (CHWs) are a cadre of health workers that can help put measures in place to reduce teenage pregnancy in the communities in which they live and work. Aim: This article aims to gain a deeper understanding of CHWs' perceptions regarding teenage pregnancy in the rural districts of Limpopo province. Methods: An exploratory qualitative study approach was employed to collect data from CHWs in two rural districts of Limpopo. A non-probability purposive sampling approach was used to choose 81 CHWs. Eight focus group discussions (FGDs) were organised, and audio recorded to collect data from participants. The discussions were 2­3 h long and conducted in English, and data saturation was attained by the fifth FGDs. Results: An eight-step tech's content analysis approach was employed to deductively code, analyse and summarise data into themes. Three themes emerged: the prevalence of teenage pregnancy in rural villages, factors contributing to teenage pregnancy and challenges faced by CHWs when dealing with teenage pregnancy. Conclusion: The study's findings revealed that CHWs face challenges in their communities when offering appropriate teen pregnancy services and CHWs believe that teen pregnancy numbers remain high. There is a significant barrier in combating teenage pregnancy; if contraceptives are not acceptable to the community, the only solution and option for combating teenage pregnancy is abstinence. Contribution: The CHWs presented their insights of teenage pregnancy in rural communities. The outcomes of this study could help clinical practise, schools, communities, youth-friendly services, policymakers and other non-governmental organisations reduce teenage pregnancy.

Characterization of genital chlamydia amongst female sex workers in Nairobi, Kenya

Introduction: genital chlamydia, which is caused by diverse Chlamydia trachomatis genotypes, is largely asymptomatic. We aimed to identify C. trachomatis genotypes causing genital chlamydia among female sex workers attending a sex workers outreach program clinic in Nairobi, Kenya. Methods: this cross-sectional study was conducted between 18 April 2017 and 19 March 2021. Genitourinary complaints from eligible female sex workers were documented using a structured questionnaire. Endocervical swabs were collected for laboratory analysis. C. trachomatis plasmid DNA was extracted, PCR-amplified, and sequenced. Consensus sequences were generated and aligned with reference sequences to determine the C.trachomatis genotypes. Bivariate analysis was used to determine the association between genitourinary complaints and genital chlamydia. Results: endocervical swabs were collected from a total of 348 participants. Of these, 46 (13.2%) were positive for C. trachomatis. Most (297, 85.3%) of the participants presented with pelvic discharge with or without other symptoms. Fifteen (15, 4.3%) had abdominal pain and 3 (0.9%) had an itchy vulva. There was no statistically significant relationship between clinical presentation and genital chlamydia. Twenty-three samples were successfully sequenced. Each sequence was at least 90% identical to each of the 13 references C. trachomatis genotypes A, B, C, D, E, F, G, Ia, J, L1, L2, L2b and L3. Conclusion: we found no significant association between individual genitourinary complaints and genital chlamydia infection. The C. trachomatis genotypes circulating amongst female sex workers in Nairobi could be related to genotypes A, B, C, D, E, F, G, Ia, J, L1, L2, L2b, and L3.

Perceptions of community health workers on teenage pregnancy in rural Limpopo: A qualitative study

Background: Despite measures put in place to combat teenage pregnancy, the rate remains high. Community health workers (CHWs) are a cadre of health workers that can help put measures in place to reduce teenage pregnancy in the communities in which they live and work. Aim: This article aims to gain a deeper understanding of CHWs' perceptions regarding teenage pregnancy in the rural districts of Limpopo province. Methods: An exploratory qualitative study approach was employed to collect data from CHWs in two rural districts of Limpopo. A non-probability purposive sampling approach was used to choose 81 CHWs. Eight focus group discussions (FGDs) were organised, and audio recorded to collect data from participants. The discussions were 2­3 h long and conducted in English, and data saturation was attained by the fifth FGDs. Results: An eight-step tech's content analysis approach was employed to deductively code, analyse and summarise data into themes. Three themes emerged: the prevalence of teenage pregnancy in rural villages, factors contributing to teenage pregnancy and challenges faced by CHWs when dealing with teenage pregnancy. Conclusion: The study's findings revealed that CHWs face challenges in their communities when offering appropriate teen pregnancy services and CHWs believe that teen pregnancy numbers remain high. There is a significant barrier in combating teenage pregnancy; if contraceptives are not acceptable to the community, the only solution and option for combating teenage pregnancy is abstinence. Contribution: The CHWs presented their insights of teenage pregnancy in rural communities. The outcomes of this study could help clinical practise, schools, communities, youth-friendly services, policymakers and other non-governmental organisations reduce teenage pregnancy

Attitudes of health workers towards management of hepatitis B Infection in general hospitals in Kwara State, Nigeria

Hepatitis B is one of the most dangerous diseases in the world and it has become a serious threat to public health. Health workers are mostly at risk of contracting the disease as they remain the first point of call to the victims. This study examined the attitudes of health workers towards management of HBV infection and the difference in attitudes of health workers based on area of specialization. An ex-post facto research design sampling 412 health workers across different areas of specialization which include doctors, nurses, laboratory scientists and laboratory technicians. Majority of the health workers had negative attitudes towards HBV patients. However, doctors (mean score=3.72) and nurses (mean score=3.54) had mild negative attitudes towards HBV patients, while laboratory scientists (mean score=3.02) and laboratory technicians (mean score=3.04) had the poorest attitudes towards HBV patients. There is need to improve the attitudes of the different cadres of health workers in the state, in order to improve the quality of life of HBV patients and reduce stigma which may impact negatively on patients' mental health.

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

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

Occupational health management of radiation workers in non-medical institutions in Shanxi Province, China / 中国辐射卫生

Objective To understand the basic information of the number, classification, and distribution of radiation work units in non-medical institutions in Shanxi Province, China, and to analyze the status quo of health management and radiation protection measures for radiation workers, so as to provide a scientific basis for occupational exposure protection in non-medical radiation work units and better protect the occupational health rights and interests of radiation workers. Methods A questionnaire survey was conducted to investigate some non-medical institutions in Shanxi Province. On-site testing was carried out to determine the risk factors for radioactive occupational diseases in the selected non-medical institutions. Results In 220 non-medical institutions, there were 340 radiation devices and 2284 radioactive sources. The rate of individual dose monitoring was 92.7% and the rate of occupational health examination was 87.2%. These devices were equipped with 325 detection instruments for radiation protection, 1316 personal protective equipment, and 730 personal dose alarms. Radiation occupational disease risk factors were investigated in 101 institutions. Conclusion The occupational health management of radiation workers in non-medical institutions in Shanxi Province is generally in line with the national standards. However, there is still a big gap with the level of occupational health management in medical institutions. The health administration departments should clarify the management measures for non-medical institutions and strengthen their supervision and management functions.

Effects of training Community Health Agents on dementia: a quasi-experimental study / Efectos de la capacitación de Agentes Comunitarios de Salud en la demencia: un estudio cuasi experimental / Efeitos da capacitação de Agentes Comunitários de Saúde na demência: um estudo quase experimental

ABSTRACT Objectives: to evaluate the knowledge of Community Health Agents about dementia before and after the training workshop for detecting signs of the disease. Methods: a quasi-experimental study with 33 community agents, in which sociodemographic information and knowledge about dementia were collected and assessed using the Alzheimer's Disease Knowledge Scale before and after the workshop. There were 10 weekly, online, synchronous meetings. The Student's t-test for related samples was used, and the effect size was calculated. Results: while the average score on the initial assessment, using the measurement instrument, was 16.3, it was 21.24 in the final assessment. An increase in the scale score was observed after participating in the workshop, with a value of 4.94. Conclusions: it is urgent to invest in the ongoing education of these professionals for greater awareness in the timely detection of dementia cases in primary care and awareness of potentially modifiable factors.

RESUMEN Objetivos: evaluar el conocimiento de los Agentes Comunitarios de Salud sobre la demencia antes y después de un taller de capacitación para la detección de signos de la enfermedad. Métodos: estudio cuasi experimental con 33 agentes comunitarios, en el que se recopilaron datos sociodemográficos y conocimiento sobre la demencia, evaluados mediante la Escala de Conocimiento de la Enfermedad de Alzheimer, antes y después del taller. Hubo 10 sesiones semanales en línea y sincrónicas. Se utilizó la prueba t de Student para muestras relacionadas y se calculó el tamaño del efecto. Resultados: mientras que la puntuación promedio en la evaluación inicial a través del instrumento de medición fue de 16,3, en la evaluación final fue de 21,24. Se observó un aumento en la puntuación de instrumento después de participar en el taller, con un valor de 4,94. Conclusiones: es urgente invertir en la educación continua de estos profesionales para aumentar la conciencia en la detección oportuna de casos de demencia en atención primaria y la concienciación sobre factores potencialmente modificables.

RESUMO Objetivos: avaliar o conhecimento dos Agentes Comunitários de Saúde sobre demência antes e após a oficina de capacitação para detecção de sinais da doença. Métodos: estudo quase-experimental com 33 agentes comunitários, no qual foram coletadas informações sociodemográficas e de conhecimento sobre demência, avaliadas pela Alzheimer's Disease Knowledge Scale, no pré e pós-oficina. Houve 10 encontros semanais, online e síncronos. Utilizou-se o teste t de Student para amostras relacionadas e calculou-se o tamanho do efeito. Resultados: enquanto a média de pontos na avaliação inicial, por meio do instrumento de medida, foi de 16,3, na avaliação final foi de 21,24. Observou-se aumento na pontuação na escala após a participação na oficina, com um valor de 4,94. Conclusões: é urgente investir na educação permanente desses profissionais para maior conscientização na detecção oportuna de casos de demência ainda na atenção básica e conscientização de fatores potencialmente modificáveis.

The impact of Covid-19 on community and hospital pharmacists: a thematic analysis study

Abstract There are a limited number of studies examining the effects of the pandemic on the daily lives of Turkish community pharmacists, and no research investigating the impact on the lives of Turkish hospital pharmacists has been found. This study aimed to examine the effects of the pandemic on the personal and professional lives of Turkish community pharmacists and hospital pharmacists. In this qualitative study design, a comprehensive set of interviews was conducted with a total of 13 community pharmacists and 7 hospital pharmacists, employing a semi-structured interview guide. Through thematic content analysis of the interviews, four main themes, 1) long-term impacts, 2) dealing strategies, 3) professional life impacts, 4) personal life impacts, have emerged for both community pharmacists and hospital pharmacists. In addition to the psychological impacts and supply chain issues commonly mentioned in the literature, the study revealed ongoing effects such as the inability to sell available products and economic difficulties. Also, the increased demand for over-the-counter products during the pandemic highlights the need for the government to develop policies to address this issue.

Como a pandemia de COVID-19 afetou a notificação de acidentes do trabalho em diferentes atividades econômicas e ocupações no Brasil? Um estudo ecológico usando o p-score / How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect occupational accident notification in different economic activities and occupations in Brazil? An ecological study using p-score

Resumo Objetivo: mensurar o impacto da pandemia de COVID-19 nas notificações de acidentes do trabalho (AT) no Brasil, por atividade econômica e ocupação. Métodos: estudo ecológico que utilizou os casos de AT registrados entre 2015 e 2020 no Anuário Estatístico da Previdência Social. Os AT foram analisados por setor de atividade econômica, ocupação e códigos da 10ª revisão da Classificação Estatística Internacional de Doenças e Problemas Relacionados à Saúde (CID-10). Uma adaptação do p-score foi aplicada para comparar os casos de AT pré-pandemia com os do primeiro ano da pandemia. Resultados: os p-scores variaram de -60,2%, para AT por nexo técnico epidemiológico, a -13,9%, para AT típico. As doenças do trabalho apresentaram p-score de 151,1%. Houve aumento notável nos casos de doenças ocupacionais dos capítulos I e X da CID-10. As notificações de AT diminuíram em todas as categorias de atividades econômicas, exceto nas de saúde humana e serviços sociais (p-score = 8,0%). Na maioria das categorias, os valores foram negativos, exceto nos subgrupos forças de segurança e profissionais de saúde de nível superior, técnico e gestores. Conclusão: houve redução geral na notificação de AT durante a pandemia de COVID-19 no Brasil, que evidenciou desigualdades entre diferentes setores de atividades e ocupações, além de mudança no perfil de adoecimento dos trabalhadores.

Abstract Objective: to assess the COVID-19 pandemic impact on Occupational Accident (OA) notifications in Brazil by economic activity and occupation. Methods: an ecological study was conducted using OA cases recorded in the Statistical Yearbook of Social Security from 2015 to 2020. Accidents were analyzed by sector of economic activity, occupation, and ICD-10 codes. Pre-pandemic cases were compared with the first year of the public health emergency scenario caused by Sars-Cov-2 using an adapted p-score. Results: p-scores ranged from -60.2% for technical-epidemiological Occupational Accidents to -13.9% for typical OA. Occupational diseases had a p-score of 151.1%. Cases of occupational diseases from ICD-10 chapters I and X showed a significant increase. OA notifications decreased in all CNAE sections, except for human health and social services activities (p-score = 8.0%). P-score values were negative in most CBO categories, except in subgroups such as security forces and high-level health professionals, technicians, and managers. Conclusion: Brazil registered a general reduction in OA notifications due to the pandemic, which evinced inequalities in different sectors and occupations, as well as changes in the illness profile of workers.

Segurança dos profissionais de saúde que atuaram na linha de frente da pandemia por covid-19 no Brasil / Safety of health professionals who worked in the front line of the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil / Seguridad de los profesionales de la salud que actuaron en primera línea de la pandemia de COVID-19 en Brasil

RESUMO: Objetivou-se avaliar a segurança dos profissionais de saúde que atuaram no combate à pandemia de covid-19 em 2020 nos serviços de saúde brasileiros. Realizou-se inquérito on line, conduzido entre junho e setembro de 2020, com profissionais de saúde de instituições públicas e privadas brasileiras, com base no questionário Health workers exposure risk assessment and management in the context of COVID-19 virus, da Organização Mundial de Saúde, sendo analisados 2.832 registros. Raça/cor e categoria profissional foram variáveis relacionadas ao aumento de casos de covid-19 dentre os profissionais. Os que se autodeclararam não brancos, técnicos e auxiliares de enfermagem tiveram chance maior de resultado positivo, indicando maior suscetibilidade à infecção relacionada ao nível socioeconômico e/ou categoria profissional e papel desempenhado no cuidado ao paciente. As variáveis estrutura das unidades de saúde, localização, teste e disponibilidade de equipamentos de proteção individual relacionaram-se ao grau de risco de contrair a doença. Ressalta-se a importância da garantia de insumos e equipamentos aos profissionais de saúde, sobretudo em um contexto pandêmico e entre aqueles com baixo nível socioeconômico que atuam na linha de frente. Riscos em situações de emergência e escassez devem ser prospectivamente monitorados, ajustando-se às iniciativas no tocante à segurança do paciente.

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety of health professionals who worked in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 in Brazilian health services. An online survey was conducted between June and September 2020, with health professionals from Brazilian public and private institutions, based on the Health workers exposure risk assessment and management in the context of COVID-19 virus, from the World Health Organization, and 2,832 records were analyzed. Race/color and professional category were variables related to the increase of covid-19 cases among professionals. Those who self-declared themselves non-white, technical and nursing assistants had a higher chance of positive results, indicating a higher susceptibility to infection related to socioeconomic level and/or professional category and a role played in patient care. The variables structure of the health units, location, test and availability of personal protective equipment were related to the degree of risk of contracting the disease. The importance of ensuring inputs and equipment to health professionals is highlighted, especially in a pandemic context and among those with low socioeconomic level who work on the front line. Risks in emergency and scarcity situations should be prospectively monitored, adjusting to patient safety initiatives.

RESUMEN: El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la seguridad de los profesionales de la salud que actuaron en la lucha contra la pandemia de COVID-19 en 2020 en los servicios de salud brasileños. Entre junio y septiembre de 2020 se realizó una encuesta en línea con profesionales de la salud de instituciones públicas y privadas brasileñas, basada en la evaluación y gestión del riesgo de exposición de los trabajadores de la salud en el contexto del virus COVID-19, de la Organización Mundial de la Salud, y se analizaron 2.832 registros. Raza/color y categoría profesional fueron variables relacionadas con el aumento de casos de COVID-19 entre profesionales. Los que se autodeclararon no blancos, técnicos y auxiliares de enfermería tuvieron una mayor probabilidad de resultados positivos, lo que indica una mayor susceptibilidad a la infección relacionada con el nivel socioeconómico y/o categoría profesional y un papel desempeñado en la atención al paciente. Las variables estructura de las unidades de salud, ubicación, prueba y disponibilidad de equipo de protección personal se relacionaron con el grado de riesgo de contraer la enfermedad. Se destaca la importancia de garantizar insumos y equipos a los profesionales de la salud, especialmente en un contexto pandémico y entre aquellos con bajo nivel socioeconómico que trabajan en primera línea. Los riesgos en situaciones de emergencia y escasez deben ser monitoreados prospectivamente, ajustándose a las iniciativas de seguridad del paciente.

Contributions of educational interventions in the management of Computer Vision Syndrome: a review of the literature / Aportes de las intervenciones educativas en el manejo del Síndrome Visual Informático: una revisión de literatura / Contribuições das intervenções educacionais no Manejo da Síndrome da Visão Computacional: uma revisão de literatura

Objective: To identify health education interventions that have demonstrated improvements in the visual and ocular health of computer-using workers with Computer Vision Syndrome. Method: Bibliographic review of original articles in Spanish and English, published between 2017 and June 2022 in PubMed, Scopus, MEDLINE (EBSCO), Redalyc, and Ovid databases. Results: Out of 1,695 articles, 11 complied with the protocol. Of these, 90.90% were published from 2020 to June 2022 and India had the highest number of publications (27.27%). Most of the studies were experimental or quasi-experimental (36.36%), and for the qualitative synthesis they were classified in educational interventions with technology 54.54% (n=6) and those that handled traditional education 45.45% (n=5). Conclusion: Health education interventions were shown to contribute to the improvement of visual and ocular health of computer users with Computer Vision Syndrome. It is necessary to investigate and divulge results about the topic, which contribute to the processes of promotion of visual and ocular health, as well as in the prevention of Computer Vision Syndrome in the workplace

Objetivo: Identificar intervenciones de educación para la salud que hayan demostrado me-joras en la salud visual y ocular de trabajadores usuarios de computadoras con Síndrome de Visión por Computador. Método: Revisión bibliográfica de artículos originales en español e inglés, publicados entre 2017 y junio de 2022 en las bases de datos PubMed, Scopus, MEDLINE (EBSCO), Redalyc y Ovid. Resultados: De 1.695 artículos, 11 cumplieron con el protocolo. De estos, el 90,90% se publicaron desde 2020 hasta junio de 2022 y la India tuvo el mayor número de publicaciones (27,27%). La mayoría de los estudios fueron experimentales o cuasi-experimentales (36,36%), y para la síntesis cualitativa se clasificaron en intervenciones educativas con tecnología 54,54% (n=6) y las que manejaban educación tradicional 45,45% (n=5). Conclusión: Se demostró que las intervenciones de educación en salud contribuyen a la mejora de la salud visual y ocular de los usuarios de computadora con Síndrome de Visión por Computador. Es necesario investigar y divulgar resultados sobre el tema, que contribuyan a los procesos de promoción de la salud visual y ocular, así como en la prevención del Síndrome de Visión por Computador en el ámbito laboral

Objetivo: Identificar intervenções de educação em saúde que demonstraram melhorias na saúde visual e ocular de trabalhadores usuários de computador com Síndrome de Visão de Computa-dor. Método: Revisão bibliográfica de artigos originais em espanhol e inglês, publicados entre 2017 e junho de 2022 nas bases de dados PubMed, Scopus, MEDLINE (EBSCO), Redalyc e Ovid. Resultados: Dos 1.695 artigos, 11 estavam de acordo com o protocolo. Destes, 90,90% foram publicados de 2020 a junho de 2022 e a Índia apresentou o maior número de publicações (27,27%). A maioria dos estudos foi experimental ou quase-experimental (36,36%), e para a síntese qualitativa foram classificados em intervenções educativas com tecnologia 54,54% (n=6) e aquelas que tratavam da educação tradicional 45,45% (n=5). Conclusão: As intervenções de educação em saúde demonstraram contribuir para a melhoria da saúde visual e ocular de usuários de computador com Síndrome de Visão de Computador. É preciso investigar e divulgar resulta-dos sobre o tema, que contribuam nos processos de promoção da saúde visual e ocular, bem como na prevenção da Síndrome da Visão do Computador no ambiente de trabalho

Construction and validation of the community health workers perception questionnaire on conditions amenable to physiotherapy in primary health care / Construção e validação do questionário de percepção dos Agentes Comunitários de Saúde sobre condições sensíveis à fisioterapia na Atenção Primária

Abstract Introduction Community health workers, like the physiotherapist, perform essential functions in primary health care, being an important element in the transformation of public policies. There are no reported studies investigating the knowledge of community health workers about health conditions amenable to physiotherapy intervention in primary health care. Objective To construct a questionnaire to investigate the perception of community health workers about health conditions that could be remedied by physiotherapy intervention in primary health care. Methods This was a methodological study in which it was initially an analysis matrix with the aim of encompassing the ideas contemplated in the questionnaire. To construct the instrument, a literature review was carried out, and health conditions treatable with physiotherapy in primary health care were chosen. To validate the content and appearance of the items, twelve physiotherapists specialized in primary health care judged the suitability of the items contained. The content validity index was used to determine the degree of agreement during the response analysis process. Subsequently, a semantic analysis was carried out through the understanding of the items by 15 community health workers. In the validation stage, two rounds of evaluation were carried out. Adjustments were made to 17 questions. Results The study investigated a questionnaire with 20 questions containing hypothetical situations of home visits, in which the resident's situation could or could not constitute a health risk amenable to physiotherapeutic intervention. Conclusion The community health workers perception instrument on health conditions amenable to physiotherapy intervention in primary health care proved to be valid for use in this context. The use of the instrument may contribute to the development of community health worker training programs, with the aim of facilitating team communication.

Resumo Introdução O Agente Comunitário de Saúde (ACS), assim como o fisioterapeuta, desencadeia funções fundamentais na Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS), sendo ele-mento importante na transformação de políticas públicas. Inexistem estudos que investiguem o conhecimento dos ACS sobre as condições de saúde sensíveis à inter-venção da fisioterapia na APS. Objetivo Construir um questionário de investigação da percepção dos ACS sobre as condições de saúde sensíveis à intervenção da fisioterapia na APS. Métodos Trata-se de um estudo metodológico no qual, inicialmente, construiu-se uma matriz de análise com o intuito de englobar as ideias contempladas no questionário. Para a construção do instrumento, realizou-se uma revisão da literatura, sendo eleitas condições de saúde sensíveis à intervenção da fisioterapia na APS. Para a validação de conteúdo e aparente dos itens, 12 fisioterapeutas especialistas em APS julgaram a adequação dos itens contidos. Utilizou-se o índice de validade de conteúdo para verificar o grau de concordância durante o processo de análise das respos-tas. Posteriormente, realizou-se análise semântica por meio da compreensão dos itens por 15 ACS. Na etapa de validação, foram realizadas duas rodadas de avaliação. Foram feitos ajustes em 17 questões. Resultados O estudo resultou em um questionário com 20 questões contendo situações hipotéticas de visitas domiciliares, cuja situação do morador poderia ou não configurar um risco à saúde sensível à intervenção fisioterapêutica. Conclusão O instrumento de percepção dos ACS sobre as condições de saúde sensíveis à intervenção da fisioterapia na APS mostrou-se válido para ser utilizado no contexto da APS. A utilização do instrumento poderá contribuir na elaboração de programas de capacitação dos ACS, com o intuito de facilitar a comunicação da equipe.

Vacunación con SOBERANA®02 y SOBERANA®Plus en trabajadores: éxito en el enfrentamiento a la pandemia de COVID-19 / Health intervention with SOBERANA®02 and SOBERANA®Plus vaccines in workers: a successful response in confronting the COVID-19 pandemic

La vacunación es una forma de contribuir a la protección de la población al reducir el riesgo de efectos graves de la enfermedad COVID-19. Para marzo de 2021, en tiempo récord, la industria biotecnológica cubana contaba con cinco candidatos vacunales. Se realizó una intervención sanitaria con un esquema heterólogo: dos dosis de SOBERANA®02 más una dosis de SOBERANA®Plus, en trabajadores durante el período de marzo a junio de 2021, en el Instituto Finlay de Vacunas, en La Habana, Cuba. Se evaluaron los efectos directos e indirectos de la vacunación con SOBERANA®02 y SOBERANA®Plus en una cohorte de riesgo de infección, enfermedad y diseminación de la COVID-19. La cohorte se estableció en marzo de 2021 en trabajadores con alta exposición al coronavirus de tipo 2 causante del síndrome respiratorio agudo severo, en el área de consulta médica de Instituto Finlay de Vacunas, establecida como sitio clínico. Entre el 22 de marzo de 2021 y el 11 de junio de 2021, se inscribieron un total de 1.776 participantes; de ellos, 1.719 cumplieron los criterios de inclusión con un porcentaje de 96,79 por ciento para la primera dosis, 1.675 recibieron la segunda dosis y 1.653 se vacunaron SOBERANA®Plus como tercera dosis para un 97,87por ciento. Mil cuatrocientos cincuenta y siete tenían entre 19 y 59 años, con predominio del sexo femenino. De los participantes, 175 tuvieron acontecimientos adversos y se observaron, predominantemente, una hora después de la administración de cada dosis. La reacción local más referida fue el dolor en el lugar de la inyección. Se registraron pocos acontecimientos adversos no solicitados. No se notificó ningún evento adverso grave o severo asociado a la vacuna. La distribución de casos de COVID-19 fue de 30, 16 y 6 posterior a cada dosis recibida. No se notificaron muertes asociadas a COVID-19. Las vacunas SOBERANA®02 y SOBERANA®Plus tuvieron un buen perfil de seguridad y fueron capaces de reducir la enfermedad grave por COVID-19 y la muerte, ayudando a revertir la situación epidemiológica causada por el coronavirus de tipo 2 causante del síndrome respiratorio agudo severo en Cuba(AU)

Vaccination is a way to help protect people by reducing the risk of serious effects from COVID-19 illness. By March of 2021, in record time, Cuba's biotech industry had five vaccine candidates. A sanitary intervention with a heterologous scheme, two doses of SOBERANA®02 and one dose of SOBERANA®Plus, was carried out in workers during the period of March to June 2021 at Finlay Vaccine Institute, in Havana, Cuba. We evaluated the direct and indirect effects of vaccination with SOBERANA®02 and SOBERANA®Plus, in a cohort at risk of infection, disease and spread of the epidemic COVID-19. The cohort was established in March 2021, among workers with high exposure to SARS-CoV-2, at the area of medical consultation at Finlay Vaccine Institute, established as clinical site. Between March 22, 2021 and June 11, 2021, were enrolled a total of 1,776 participants and, of them, 1,719 met the inclusion criteria with a percentage of 96.79percent for first dose, of which 1,675 received the second dose and 1,653 received SOBERANA®Plus as third dose for 97.87percent. The majority of participants were aged 19-59 years (1,457), being female, the predominant sex. Among the participants, 175 had adverse events, predominantly observed one hour after the administration of each dose. The most common local reaction was injection site pain. Few unsolicited adverse events were recorded. No vaccine-associated severe or serious adverse events were reported. The distribution of COVID-19 case was 30 post first dose, 16 post second dose and 6 post last dose. No deaths associated with COVID-19 were reported. SOBERANA®02 and SOBERANA®Plus vaccines had a good safety profile and were capable of a reduction of severe COVID-19 illness and death helping to reverse the epidemiological situation caused by the SARS-COV-2 in Cuba(AU)

Condições de trabalho dos agentes comunitários de saúde em um contexto de saúde digital: velhos e novos desafios / Condiciones de trabajo de las agentes comunitarias de salud en un contexto de salud digital: viejos y nuevos desafíos / Working conditions of community health workers in a digital health context: old and new challenges

O uso de ferramentas da saúde digital tem sido intensificado na Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS) e nas práticas de agentes comunitários de saúde (ACS). Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar os desafios impostos pelas condições de trabalho dos ACS no contexto da saúde digital. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa com triangulação de métodos envolvendo lideranças sindicais, gestores e profissionais da saúde. Os resultados apontam uma reedição de velhos desafios em torno do trabalho dos ACS, como maior burocratização, controle, divisão social e técnica. Porém, novos desafios emergem em torno da manutenção, da qualidade dos instrumentos e da formação profissional. Conclui-se demarcando a necessidade de uma garantia logística, financeira e política para a implementação da saúde digital no trabalho dos ACS.

El uso de herramientas de la salud digital se ha intensificado en la Atención Primaria de la Salud (APS) y en las prácticas de Agentes Comunitarias de Salud (ACS). El objetivo de este artículo es analizar los desafíos impuestos por las condiciones de trabajo de las ACS en el contexto de la salud digital. Se trata de una investigación cualitativa, con triangulación de métodos, envolviendo liderazgos sindicales, gestores y profesionales de la salud. Los resultados señalan una reedición de viejos desafíos alrededor del trabajo de las ACS, tales como mayor burocratización, control, división social y técnica. Sin embargo, surgen nuevos desafíos alrededor del mantenimiento, calidad de los instrumentos y formación profesional. Se concluye demarcando la necesidad de una garantía logística, financiera y política para la implementación de la salud digital en el trabajo de las ACS.

The use of digital health tools has grown in intensity in Primary Health Care (PHC) and in the practices of Community Health Workers (CHWs). This article aims to analyze the challenges imposed by the working conditions of CHWs in the context of digital health. It is a qualitative study, with triangulation of methods involving union leaders, managers and health professionals. The results indicate the re-emergence of old challenges surrounding the work of CHWs, such as greater bureaucratization, control, social and technical division of work. However, new challenges emerge around maintenance, quality of tools and professional training. In conclusion, there is a need for logistical, financial and political safeguards for the implementation of digital health in the work of CHWs.