Formulation, implementation and evaluation of a distance course for accreditation in patient safety / Formulação, desenvolvimento e avaliação de um curso a distância para acreditação em segurança do paciente

ABSTRACT Objective To formulate and to implement a virtual learning environment course in patient safety, and to propose ways to estimate the impact of the course in patient safety outcomes. Methods The course was part of an accreditation process and involved all employees of a public hospital in Brazil. The whole hospital staff was enrolled in the course. The accreditation team defined the syllabus. The education guidelines were divided into 12 modules related to quality, patient safety and required organizational practices. The assessment was performed at the end of each module through multiple-choice tests. The results were estimated according to occurrence of adverse events. Data were collected after the course, and employees' attitude was surveyed. Results More than 80% of participants reached up to 70% success on tests after the course; the event-reporting rate increased from 714 (16,264 patients) to 1,401 (10,180 patients). Conclusion Virtual learning environment was a successful tool data. Data on course evaluation is consistent with increase in identification and reporting of adverse events. Although the report increment is not positive per si, it indicates changes in patient safety culture.

RESUMO Objetivo Elaborar e implantar um curso de segurança do paciente em um ambiente virtual de aprendizagem, e propor métodos para estimar seu impacto nos resultados de segurança do paciente. Métodos O curso fez parte de um processo de acreditação e envolveu todos os colaboradores de um hospital público. Toda a equipe do hospital foi matriculada no curso. A equipe de acreditação definiu o programa. As diretrizes de instrução foram divididas em 12 módulos relacionados à qualidade, segurança do paciente e práticas organizacionais requeridas. A avaliação foi realizada no final de cada módulo, por meio de testes de escolha múltipla. Os resultados foram estimados pela ocorrência de eventos adversos. Os dados foram coletados após o curso, e a atitude dos empregados foi pesquisada. Resultados Mais de 80% dos participantes atingiram até 70% de sucesso em testes; após o curso, a taxa de notificação de eventos aumentou de 714 (16.264 pacientes) para 1.401 notificações (10.180 pacientes). Conclusão O ambiente virtual de aprendizagem foi uma ferramenta bem-sucedida. Os dados da avaliação do curso são coerentes com o aumento da identificação e da notificação de eventos adversos. Embora o incremento de notificação não seja positivo por si só, é indicativo de mudanças na cultura de segurança do paciente.

Capacitação de profissionais de saúde em aleitamento materno e sua associação com conhecimentos, habilidades e práticas / Training of health professionals in breastfeeding and its association with knowledge, skills and practices

Resumo Para verificar a associação entre capacitação em aleitamento materno e conhecimentos, habilidades e práticas profissionais, foi conduzido estudo transversal nos 15 hospitais com mais de 1000 partos/ano do município do Rio de Janeiro. Foram entrevistados 215 profissionais, sendo 48,4% em Hospitais Amigos da Criança, por adaptação de questionário de reavaliação desta iniciativa. Os três desfechos, dicotomizados, foram utilizados em análises bivariadas e multivariadas, sendo obtidas razões de prevalência ajustadas por modelo de regressão de Poisson. Dos profissionais, 48,1% tinham conhecimentos; 58,9% habilidades e 74,9% práticas adequadas. A capacitação teórico-prática ≥ 18 horas, considerada adequada, presente em 65,6% dos profissionais, mostrou associação significativa com conhecimentos (RPa = 1,575), habilidades (RPa = 1,530) e práticas (RPa = 1,312). Profissionais com menor tempo de trabalho apresentaram menos conhecimentos (RPa = 0,723), mas relataram melhores práticas (RPa = 1,183). A enfermagem relatou melhores práticas em relação aos médicos (RPa = 0,808) e a outras categorias (RPa = 0,658). Conclui-se que a capacitação contribui para o aprimoramento de conhecimentos, habilidades e práticas em aleitamento materno, fundamentais à assistência materno-infantil.

Abstract A cross-sectional study was conducted in the 15 hospitals with over 1000 deliveries/year in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to verify the association between training of health professionals in breastfeeding and professional knowledge, skills and practices. Interviews were staged with 215 health professionals, 48.4% working in Baby-Friendly Hospitals, by means of a questionnaire adapted from the revalidation instrument of the initiative. The three dichotomized outcomes were subjected to bivariate and multivariate analysis. Adjusted prevalence ratios were obtained by the Poisson regression model: 48.1% of the professionals had adequate knowledge, 58.9% adequate skills and 74.9% reported adequate practice. Theoretical and practical training ≥ 18 hours considered adequate (by 65.6% of the professionals) showed a significant association with professional knowledge (aPR = 1.575), skills (aPR = 1.530) and practices (aPR = 1.312). Less working experience was associated with less knowledge (aPR = 0.723), but with better practices (aPR = 1.183). Nursing staff reported better practices than physicians (aPR = 0.808) and other categories (aPR = 0.658). The study concludes that training contributes to improved breastfeeding knowledge, skills and practices that are essential for maternal and child care.

Improving hand hygiene compliance among healthcare workers: an intervention study in a Hospital in Guizhou Province, China

Abstract Objective Hand hygiene (HH) is a critical component for controlling hospital-acquired infection (HAI). The present study was designed to develop an intervention approach to improve compliance with HH among healthcare workers in a hospital setting. Methods The HH intervention study was conducted in Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, China and organized by its Department of HAI Management. It was an observational, prospective, quasiexperimental (before-after intervention) study. The study was divided into two phases: the baseline phase and the intervention phase. The investigative team included clinical monitoring staff and infection control practitioners who received a series of instructions on HH compliance, monitoring skills, and measurement of the use of HH products. Results Based on 27,852 observations in a 17-month period, the rate of compliance with HH improved from 37.78% at baseline to 75.90% after intervention. Significant improvement in compliance and an increase in consumption of HH products was observed after intervention. The per patient-day consumption of alcohol-based hand rub products and handwash agents increased by 4.75 mL and 4.55 mL, respectively. The consumption of paper towels increased 3.41 sheets per patient-day. During the same period, the prevalence rate of HAI decreased 0.83%. Conclusions This study demonstrates that a significant improvement in compliance with HH can be achieved through a systemic, multidimensional intervention approach involving all categories of healthcare workers in a hospital setting, which may result in a decrease of the HAI rate.

Impact of health professional training in breastfeeding on their knowledge, skills, and hospital practices: a systematic review / Repercussão da capacitação de profissionais de saúde em aleitamento materno sobre seus conhecimentos, habilidades e práticas hospitalares: uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Objective To identify the impact of training in breastfeeding on knowledge, skills, and professional and hospital practices. Data source The systematic review search was carried out through the MEDLINE, Scopus, and LILACS databases. Reviews, studies with qualitative methodology, those without control group, those conducted in primary care, with specific populations, studies that had a belief and/or professional attitude as outcome, or those with focus on the post-discharge period were excluded. There was no limitation of period or language. The quality of the studies was assessed by the adapted criteria of Downs and Black. Summary of data The literature search identified 276 articles, of which 37 were selected for reading, 26 were excluded, and six were included through reference search. In total, 17 intervention articles were included, three of them with good internal validity. The studies were performed between 1992 and 2010 in countries from five continents; four of them were conducted in Brazil. The training target populations were nursing practitioners, doctors, midwives, and home visitors. Many kinds of training courses were applied. Five interventions employed the theoretical and practical training of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative. All kinds of training courses showed at least one positive result on knowledge, skills, and/or professional/hospital practices, most of them with statistical significance. Conclusions Training of hospital health professionals has been effective in improving knowledge, skills, and practices.

Resumo Objetivo Identificar a repercussão da capacitação em aleitamento materno sobre conhecimentos, habilidades e práticas profissionais e hospitalares. Fontes dos dados A busca da revisão sistemática foi efetuada nas bases MedLine, Scopus e Lilacs. Foram excluídos artigos de revisão, de metodologia qualitativa, estudos sem grupo controle, conduzidos na atenção primária, com clientelas específicas, cujos desfechos eram crença e/ou atitude profissional e trabalhos com foco no período pós-alta hospitalar. Não houve limitação quanto ao ano ou idioma, foi feita avaliação da qualidade dos artigos por critério adaptado de Downs & Black. Síntese dos dados Na busca de literatura foram encontrados 276 artigos e selecionados 37 para leitura integral. Foram excluídos 26 artigos e incluídos seis mediante busca das referências. Foram incluídos 17 artigos de intervenção e três apresentaram boa validade interna. Os estudos foram conduzidos entre 1992 e 2010, quatro no Brasil, em países de cinco continentes. O principal público-alvo das capacitações foram profissionais de enfermagem, médicos, parteiras e visitadores domiciliares. Os cursos de capacitação foram diversos, cinco intervenções empregaram o treinamento teórico-prático da Iniciativa Hospital Amigo da Criança. Todas as formas de capacitação apresentaram algum resultado positivo sobre os conhecimentos, as habilidades e/ou práticas profissionais e hospitalares, a maioria com significância estatística. Conclusões As capacitações de profissionais de saúde que atuam em hospitais têm sido efetivas em aprimorar conhecimentos, habilidades e práticas.

The cost-savings of implementing kangaroo mother care in Nicaragua / Reducción de costos mediante la implantación del método madre canguro en Nicaragua

OBJECTIVE: To examine the costs of implementing kangaroo mother care (KMC) in a referral hospital in Nicaragua, including training, implementation, and ongoing operating costs, and to estimate the economic impact on the Nicaraguan health system if KMC were implemented in other maternity hospitals in the country. METHODS: After receiving clinical training in KMC, the implementation team trained their colleagues, wrote guidelines for clinicians and education material for parents, and ensured adherence to the new guidelines. The intervention began September 2010 The study compared data on infant weight, medication use, formula consumption, incubator use, and hospitalization for six months before and after implementation. Cost data were collected from accounting records of the implementers and health ministry formularies. RESULTS: A total of 46 randomly selected infants before implementation were compared to 52 after implementation. Controlling for confounders, neonates after implementation had lower lengths of hospitalization by 4.64 days (P = 0.017) and 71% were exclusively breastfed (P < 0.001). The intervention cost US$ 23 113 but the money saved with shorter hospitalization, elimination of incubator use, and lower antibiotic and infant formula costs made up for this expense in 1 - 2 months. Extending KMC to 12 other facilities in Nicaragua is projected to save approximately US$ 166 000 (based on the referral hospital incubator use estimate) or US$ 233 000 after one year (based on the more conservative incubator use estimate). CONCLUSIONS: Treating premature and low-birth-weight infants in Nicaragua with KMC implemented as a quality improvement program saves money within a short period even without considering the beneficial health effects of KMC. Implementation in more facilities is strongly recommended.

OBJETIVO: Analizar los costos de la implantación del método madre canguro en un hospital de referencia de Nicaragua, incluidos los costos de capacitación, implantación y funcionamiento, y calcular la repercusión económica en el sistema de salud nicaragüense si se aplicara el método en otras maternidades del país. MÉTODOS: Tras recibir capacitación clínica en el método, los miembros del equipo encargado de su implantación capacitaron a sus colegas, elaboraron directrices para los médicos y material educativo para los padres, y garantizaron la adhesión a las nuevas directrices. La intervención empezó en septiembre del 2010. El estudio comparó los siguientes datos: peso de los lactantes, empleo de medicamentos, consumo de leches maternizadas, uso de incubadoras, y hospitalizaciones durante los seis meses previos y posteriores a la implantación. Los datos relativos a los costos se recopilaron a partir de los registros contables de los ejecutores y los formularios del Ministerio de Salud. RESULTADOS: Los datos de 46 lactantes seleccionados aleatoriamente antes de la implantación se compararon con los de 52 lactantes del período posterior a la intervención. Mediante el control de los factores de confusión, después de la intervención, el tiempo medio de hospitalización de los recién nacidos fue inferior en 4,64 días (P = 0,017), y el 71% (P < 0,001) de los lactantes recibieron lactancia materna exclusiva. La intervención tuvo un costo de US$ 23 113 pero el dinero ahorrado gracias a la menor duración de las hospitalizaciones, la eliminación del uso de incubadoras, y la reducción de los costos en antibióticos y leches maternizadas compensó estos gastos en uno a dos meses. Se proyecta extender el método a otros 12 establecimientos sanitarios de Nicaragua para ahorrar aproximadamente US$ 233 000 (con base en el cálculo del uso de incubadoras en el hospital de referencia) o US$ 166 000 (con base en un cálculo más conservador del uso de incubadoras) al cabo de un año. CONCLUSIONES: El tratamiento de los neonatos prematuros y con bajo peso al nacer mediante el método madre canguro, implantado como un programa de mejora de la calidad en Nicaragua, ahorra dinero en un período corto, incluso sin tener en cuenta los efectos beneficiosos del método sobre la salud. Se recomienda su implantación en otros establecimientos sanitarios.

Impacto de un programa de control de la calidad de la prescripción de antibióticos en un hospital de La Habana, Cuba / Impact of a quality control program on antibiotic prescription in a hospital in Havana, Cuba

Objetivo. Demostrar la eficacia de un programa de control de la calidad de la prescripción de antibióticos en el Hospital Docente Clínico Quirúrgico Joaquín Albarrán de La Habana, Cuba.Métodos. Estudio de intervención realizado en el período del 1 de mayo de 2008 a 31 de marzo de 2011, que incluyó la evaluación de la calidad de la prescripción y la retroalimentaciónde la información, actividades educativas, funcionamiento de un comité de antibióticos y la elaboración de protocolos de uso de antimicrobianos. Se construyó un gráfico aritméticosimple de la serie temporal y se compararon los valores absolutos de las proporciones de la serie entre sí. Para comprobar la existencia de tendencia en la serie se ajustó a un modelo deregresión lineal simple. Resultados. Se evaluaron las prescripciones de antibióticos de 2 941 pacientes, en las que se observó una serie irregular, con proporción de uso inadecuado entre 48,4% y 30,7% en los primeros tres meses analizados. Se encontró que el valor tomado por la pendiente de regresión, aunque se encontraba cercano a cero, era negativo y significativamente diferente de cero (b =–0,29; P = 0,02). Conclusiones. El programa de control de antibióticos mejoró la calidad de la prescripcióna los pacientes hospitalizados.

Objective. Demonstrate the efficacy of a quality control program on antibioticprescription in Joaquín Albarrán Hospital in Havana, Cuba. Methods. An interventional study was conducted from 1 May 2008 to 31 March 2011. The study included evaluation of prescription quality, information feedback, educational activities, the operations of an antibiotic committee, and the preparation of protocols on antimicrobial drug use. A simple arithmetic graph of the time series was constructed, and the absolute values of the series percentages were compared. Inorder to verify the existence of a series trend, a simple linear regression model was applied. Results. Antibiotic prescription was evaluated in 2 941 patients. An irregular series was observed, with inappropriate use in 30.7%–48.4% of these patients in the first three months analyzed. The value of the regression slope was close to zero, although it was negative and significantly different from zero (b = –0.29; P = 0.02). Conclusions. The antibiotic control program improved the quality of prescribing for hospital patients.

Humanização da saúde em um serviço de emergência de um hospital público: comparação sobre representações sociais dos profissionais antes e após a capacitação / Humanization health at emergency service in a public hospital: comparison on social representation of professional before and after training

Este artigo apresenta os resultados de um estudo do tipo antes e depois da capacitação em acolhimento com classificação de risco, que comparou as representações sociais de humanização da saúde entre 111 profissionais de saúde em uma unidade hospitalar de urgência e emergência. A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio da técnica de evocações livres e a análise pelo software EVOC. Os resultados mostraram modificação no significado simbólico atribuído aos termos indutores na direção da incorporação da perspectiva do direito na representação do Sistema Único de Saúde, na tradução da humanização na saúde como acolhimento e progressão da compreensão do acolhimento, do foco humanístico para a qualificação dos processos de atendimento da demanda dos usuários nas urgências e emergências. Os resultados indicam que as diferenças encontradas no núcleo central antes e após a capacitação foram decorrentes de uma aprendizagem que, ancorada em elementos periféricos, foi capaz de questionar o núcleo central e intercambiar elementos entre o sistema central e periférico, constatando a complementaridade funcional entre estes dois sistemas e as relações entre representações e práticas. Contudo, o método utilizado não permite afirmar a persistência de tais mudanças nas representações sociais dos objetos estudados, nem medir em profundidade as mudanças nas práticas cotidianas.

This article presents the results of a study of the type before and after training in Shelter with Risk classification compared to the humanization of social representations of health among 111 health professionals in an emergency hospital. Data collection was performed using the technique of free evocation and analysis was done using the EVOC software. The results showed changes in the symbolic meaning attributed to terms inducers towards incorporation of the right perspective in the representation of the Unified Health System, the translation of Humanization in health as Shelter, and the progression of understanding the Shelter, the humanistic focus to the qualification of processes of care of the users demand at emergencies. The results indicate that the differences found in the core before and after training were due to an apprenticeship, which based in peripheral elements, was able to question the core elements and interchange between the central and peripheral system, recognizing the functional complementarity between these two systems and the relationships between representations and practices. However, the method does not assert the persistence of such changes in the social representations of the objects studied in depth or measure the changes in daily practices.

Knowledge, attitude and practices on needle-stick and sharps injuries in tertiary care cardiac hospital: A survey.

Aims: One of the potential hazards for health care workers (HCWs) is needle-stick and sharp injuries (NSSIs). The objective of the study was to assess the knowledge and attitude of health care workers about the NSSIs. Settings and Design: This was a cross-sectional survey conducted in the tertiary care cardiac center. The participants were health care workers including doctors, nurses, technicians, and housekeeping staff from the different areas of the hospital. Methods and Materials: This cross-sectional survey was conducted in the institute using a self-administered validated questionnaire. The participants consisted of a total of 190 HCWs namely doctors, nurses, technicians, and housekeeping staff. Statistical Analysis Used: Nil. Results: Results showed maximum participant were in the age group of 20-30 years. 94.7% were aware about standard precautions. 91.5% knew about the procedure for reporting of NSSIs. Only 50.2% HCWs gave correct answers regarding disease transmission through needle stick and sharp injury. The prevalence of NSSIs was highest among nurses (38.4%), and needle on the disposable syringe (76.9%) was the most common source of NSSIs. Conclusions: The survey revealed few gaps in the knowledge amongst HCWs about NSSIs like risks associated with needle-stick injuries and use of preventive measures, disassembling of needles prior to disposal. These gaps can be addressed by extensive education. As nurses were the most affected victim for the NSSIs, more emphasis should be given towards them for reducing the NSSIs.

Avaliação da implantação do cuidado humanizado aos recém-nascidos com baixo peso: método canguru / Evaluation of implementation of humanized care to low weight newborns: the Kangaroo Method

Objetivo: Avaliar a implantação do método canguru em hospitais capacitados pelo Ministério da Saúde (MS). Método: Estudo transversal que avaliou 176 (60,1 por cento) dos 293 hospitais maternidades (HM) capacitados entre 2000 e 2003 no Brasil. O estudo foi conduzido em duas fases. A primeira consistiu no envio de um questionário para os 293 HM, e a segunda fase realizou-se mediante visita in loco em uma amostra de 29 destes HM. O instrumento de coleta de dados da primeira fase foi enviado por correio, fax ou e-mail via Ministério da Saúde a todos os hospitais capacitados e abordava as dimensões da avaliação normativa: estrutura, processos e resultados. A segunda fase consistiu exclusivamente na avaliação de processo utilizando-se roteiro de observação não participante e estruturado. Para estimar a confiabilidade da variável “implantação das etapas do método”, entre o questionário e a visita local utilizou-se o teste de kappa. Resultados: A primeira etapa do método canguru foi implantada em 84,9 por cento dos hospitais, porém apenas 47,3 por cento implantaram as três etapas conforme regulamenta a norma brasileira. Os resultados do teste de kappa indicam concordância moderada para a primeira etapa e substancial para a segunda e terceira etapas do método. Conclusão: A capacitação foi importante para o início do processo de implantação do método canguru, mas não suficiente para promover a implantação das três fases do método.

Objective: To evaluate the implementation of the kangaroo mother method in hospitals trained by the Brazilian Ministry of Health. Method: Cross-sectional study, evaluating 176 (60.1 percent) out of 293 hospitals that were trained by the Brazilian Ministry of Health from 2000 to 2003 in Brazil. This study was conducted in two phases. The first phase consisted of sending a questionnaire to 293 hospitals; in the second phase an in loco visit was made in a sample of 29 among those hospitals. The instrument for data collection was sent to all hospitals by mail, fax or e-mail through the Ministry of Health and they addressed the three dimensions of the normative assessment: structure, processes, and results. The second phase consisted of an evaluation of the process, using a structured guide of non-participant observation. To estimate the reliability of the variable “deployment of the steps of the method” between questionnaire and site visit, we used the kappa test. Results: The first stage of the kangaroo mother method was implemented in 84.9 percent of the hospitals, but only 47.3 percent of them implemented the three stages according to the Brazilian norm. The kappa test results indicated a moderate agreement for the first stage, and substantial for the second and third stages of the method. Conclusion: Hospital training was important for triggering the implementation process of the kangaroo mother method. However, they were not enough to promote the implementation of the three phases of the method.

Material and human resources for neonatal resuscitation in public maternity hospitals in Brazilian state capitals / Recursos materiais e humanos para a reanimação neonatal nas maternidades públicas das capitais brasileiras

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: In 2002, the early neonatal mortality rate in Brazil was 12.42 per thousand live births. Perinatal asphyxia was the greatest cause of neonatal death (about 23 percent). This study aimed to evaluate the availability of the resources required for neonatal resuscitation in delivery rooms of public hospitals in Brazilian state capitals. DESIGN AND SETTING: Multicenter cross-sectional study involving 36 hospitals in 20 Brazilian state capitals in June 2003. METHODS: Each Brazilian region was represented by 1-4 percent of its live births. A local coordinator collected data regarding physical infrastructure, supplies and professionals available for neonatal resuscitation in the delivery room. The information was analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 10. RESULTS: Among the 36 hospitals, 89 percent were referral centers for high-risk pregnancies. Each institution had a monthly mean of 365 live births (3 percent < 1,500 g and 15 percent < 2,500 g). The 36 hospitals had 125 resuscitation tables (3-4 per hospital), all with overhead radiant heat, oxygen and vacuum sources. Appropriate equipment for pulmonary ventilation was available for more than 90 percent of the 125 resuscitation tables. On average, one pediatrician, three nurses and five nursing assistants per shift worked in the delivery rooms of each institution. Out of the 874 pediatricians and 1,037 nursing personnel that worked in the delivery rooms of the 36 hospitals, 94 percent and 22 percent, respectively, were trained in neonatal resuscitation. CONCLUSIONS: The main public maternity hospitals in Brazilian state capitals have the resources to resuscitate neonates at birth.

CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: Em 2002, a mortalidade neonatal precoce brasileira foi 12,42 para cada mil nascidos vivos e a asfixia perinatal foi responsável por 23 por cento dessas mortes. Este estudo visa avaliar a disponibilidade dos recursos necessários para a reanimação neonatal nas salas de parto de hospitais públicos brasileiros. TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Estudo transversal multicêntrico de 36 maternidades, em 20 capitais brasileiras, em junho de 2003. MÉTODOS: As maternidades selecionadas em cada região brasileira representaram 1-4 por cento dos nascidos vivos da região. O coordenador local da pesquisa respondeu a um questionário estruturado com dados a respeito da estrutura física, os equipamentos e o pessoal disponível para a reanimação neonatal em cada maternidade. A análise descritiva foi feita por meio do programa Statistical Package for Social Science 10.0. RESULTADOS: 89 por cento das 36 maternidades eram referência para gestação de risco. Cada hospital tinha um número médio mensal de 365 nascimentos (3 por cento < 1.500 g e 15 por cento < 2.500 g). Os 36 hospitais tinham 125 mesas de reanimação (3-4/hospital), todas com calor radiante, fonte de oxigênio e vácuo. Equipamento adequado para ventilação pulmonar estava disponível em mais de 90 por cento das 125 mesas. Em média, um pediatra, três enfermeiras e cinco auxiliares de enfermagem trabalhavam por turno nas salas de parto de cada instituição. Dos 874 pediatras e 1.037 profissionais de enfermagem que atuavam nas salas de parto, 94 por cento e 22 por cento haviam recebido treinamento em reanimação neonatal respectivamente. CONCLUSÕES: As maternidades públicas das capitais brasileiras apresentam salas de parto com infra-estrutura adequada para a reanimação neonatal.

Occupational safety among personnel responsible for cleaning in Ain Shams University Hospitals

The health care worker [HCW] is at substantial risk of acquiring blood borne pathogen infections through exposure to blood or infectious body fluids. Personnel responsible for cleaning as a part of HCW team, are susceptible to the high risk of exposure to infection and injuries. Inadequate management of biomedical waste can be associated with risks to health care workers, patients, communities and their environment to determine the occupational safety issues among personnel responsible for cleaning in Ain Shams University hospitals and their relation with the medical waste management in the hospitals. A cross-sectional study was done in Ain Shams University hospitals. Sample was selected randomly from all personnel responsible for cleaning in all hospital departments [Internal Medicine, Paediatric, Surgery, Gynaecology and Obstetric]. An interview questionnaire was constructed to collect demographic data and to evaluate the occupational safety of cleaning personnel. the study included 204 personnel responsible for cleaning from all departments of hospitals of Ain Shams University hospitals. 115 [56.4%] were males and 89 [43.6%] were females. Most of them were illiterate or can read and write [35.3% and 39.7%]. There was high percentage of exposure of personnel responsible for cleaning to the hazardous hospital waste. 67.6% reported exposure to infectious waste, about 60% were exposed to sharps waste and 25.5% reported one or more needle stick injuries in previous 6 months. 69.1% of personnel responsible for cleaning had pre-employment medical examination. Any worker did not report periodic medical examination. More than one third of personnel responsible for cleaning [37.7%] did not receive hepatitis B vaccine. The study revealed the availability of personal protective equipment such as uniform [84.3%], gloves [68.1%] and boots [65.2%], but the percentage of use was different [76.0%, 55.9% and 58.8% respectively]. There was lack of separation between hazardous and non- hazardous waste at the point of generation [55.9%]. There was also less cooperation between HCW team personnel in separation of hazardous waste [68.6%]. Another point was insufficient training of personnel on proper packing of infectious waste and not following the already present regulations for waste disposal. The study shows that there is a need to improve occupational safety and hygiene of personnel responsible for cleaning in Ain Shams University hospitals by establishing standards and providing effective on-job periodic training program for them. In addition, another training program for proper waste management should be carried out for all healthcare workers. Infection control units need to identify methods to improve hepatitis B vaccination coverage levels among HCWs. Medical record is required for each employee and should be started with the first visit for pre-employment examination

Impacto de treinamento baseado na Iniciativa Hospital Amigo da Criança sobre práticas relacionadas à amamentação no interior do Nordeste / The impact of training based on the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative on breastfeeding practices in the Northeast of Brazil

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o impacto de treinamento baseado na Iniciativa Hospital Amigo da Criança sobre práticas relacionadas à amamentação na maternidade e freqüências de aleitamento materno nos primeiros 6 meses de vida. MÉTODOS: Foram treinadas 90 por cento das auxiliares de enfermagem e parteiras de duas maternidades (A e B) de Palmares (PE). Foram entrevistadas 334 mães nas primeiras 48 horas e 10 dias após o parto, para avaliar práticas que estimulam a amamentação nas maternidades e o cumprimento do quarto ao 10° passo da Iniciativa Hospital Amigo da Criança. Uma subamostra de 166 mães recebeu sete visitas domiciliares, para avaliar as freqüências do aleitamento materno nos 6 primeiros meses de vida. Os resultados foram comparados com os de estudo de coorte realizado na área em 1998. RESULTADOS: O desempenho da maternidade B foi melhor que o da maternidade A quanto às práticas que promovem o aleitamento materno relacionadas aos passos avaliados e quanto às freqüências de amamentação exclusiva. Comparação com coorte histórica evidenciou melhora nas práticas relacionadas à amamentação nas maternidades e aumento nas freqüências do aleitamento materno exclusivo (de 21,2 para 70 por cento), nas primeiras 48 horas após o parto e durante os 6 primeiros meses de vida. CONCLUSÕES: O treinamento promoveu mudanças parciais em algumas práticas relacionadas à amamentação, repercutindo de forma positiva sobre as freqüências de aleitamento materno e aleitamento materno exclusivo nas maternidades. Contudo, não houve mudanças expressivas nessas freqüências ao longo dos 6 meses de vida, sugerindo a necessidade de intervenções efetivas no apoio ao aleitamento exclusivo nos serviços de saúde e na comunidade.

Effect of an education program on the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia: A multicenter study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of an educational program targeted on modifiable risk factors on ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) rates. MATERIAL AND METHOD: After a preliminary study on VAP risk factors was conducted at one teaching hospital, a pre- and post-interventional study was then performed on 12 hospitals in Thailand from January 1, 2002 to June 30, 2003. Each hospital randomly selected 20 patients, who were on mechanical ventilation to be enrolled The study was divided into two phases; 1) pre-intervention, 2) post-intervention. Data collected included patients 'demography and risk factors for VAP During pre-interventional phase, data on risk factors for VAP was analyzed and fedback to healthcare providers in the wards by an infection control nurse (ICN) of the individual hospital. An educational programme on the prevention of VAP was introduced by the ICN. Ventilator-associated pneumonia rates and their risk factors were continuously monitored during the post-interventionl phase. RESULTS: Two hundred and forty four patients in the pre-interventional phase and 254 patients in the post-interventional phase were included. There was no significant difference in the demography between these two patient populations. After the intervetion, there was a significant improvement in hand-hygiene practices (p<0.001) among healthcare providers and increased use of sucralfate (p=0.05) for stress ulcer prophylaxis. Ventilation-associated pneumonia rate (40.5% vs. 24%; p<0.001) and crude mortality rate associated with VAP (12.3% vs. 8.7%; p<0.001) were also reduced CONCLUSION: The educational programme targeted on modifiable risk factors for prevention of VAP was effective and should be considered as an intervention to reduce VAP rates in developing countries.

Prevalence and effectiveness of an education program on intestinal pathogens in food handlers.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the prevalence of intestinal pathogens and the effectiveness of an education program in food handlers in a tertiary care hospital. MATERIAL AND METHOD: The prevalence of intestinal pathogens in food handlers was done by stool cultures for bacteria and microscopy for parasites. Treatment was given to those who had a positive stool examination. An education program on the acquisition of the pathogens and their prevention were given by lecture and distribution of handouts. Efficacy of the education program was evaluated by assessing the knowledge and the presence of pathogens before and after the education program. RESULTS: The study was done from January 2002 to March 2004. Risk factors for acquiring intestinal pathogens among food handlers were high regarding education level, housing, food hygiene and personal hygiene. Diarrheal diseases were common in food handlers and their relatives. Before the education program, 40.8% had intestinal pathogens, bacteria and parasites in almost similar proportions. Most common bacteria were Vibrio parahemolyticus, Plesiomonas shigelloides and Salmonella spp.; Blastocystis hominis, Giardia lambria and Endolimax nana were the frequently found intestinal parasites. Food handlers with the pathogens in stool were treated. After the education program subsequent investigation showed a significant reduction in stool pathogens and parasites but their knowledge and hand hygiene practice did not improve. CONCLUSION: The present study showed a high prevalence rate of intestinal pathogens in food handlers of a tertiary care hospital. The education program failed to improve their knowledge and hand hygiene practice for the prevention of the pathogens.

Adherence to an occupational blood borne pathogens exposure management program among healthcare workers and other groups at risk in Argentina

We conducted a retrospective review of 130 occupational blood borne pathogens exposure (BBP-OE) records at Centro de Estudios Médicos e Investigaciones Clínicas, a university hospital with an ongoing educational program and a postexposure management program for healthcare workers (HCWs) since 1995, in order to evaluate adherence to a hospital BBP-OE management program. We compared HCWs from our institution (Group 1) and HCWs from independent institutions that contract our postexposure management program (Group 2). Compliance with standard precautions in Group 1 was inadequate in 77 percent, 23 percent, and 16 percent of nurses, physicians, and others, respectively. A greater proportion of HCWs in Group 1 (74 percent vs. 40 percent) reported occupational accidents within two hours after exposure (p = 0.0001). No difference was observed regarding compliance with adherence to schedule, partial adherence, and loss at follow-up (14 percent, 33 percent, and 53 percent; p > 0.05). Adherence to the standard of care for BBP-OE, including postexposure prophylaxis, was low (HIV: 53 percent and HBV: 63 percent). Knowledge of the seropositive status of the source patient did not improve adherence. We conclude that postexposure programs do not guarantee appropriate behavior by HCWs. General interventions and ongoing personnel education to modify individual attitudes are needed, as are continued efforts to assess HCWs' experiences with these programs, as well as the identification of strategies to improve adherence.

Ensino da reanimação neonatal em maternidades públicas das capitais brasileiras / Teaching neonatal resuscitation at public hospitals in Brazilian state capitals

OBJETIVO: Analisar o ensino da reanimação neonatal para médicos e enfermeiros em formação e para residentes em pediatria e neonatologia em maternidades públicas brasileiras. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal multicêntrico, realizado em 36 maternidades de 20 capitais brasileiras em junho de 2003. O coordenador local preencheu questionário com dados referentes à realização de ensino específico da reanimação neonatal e atuação em sala de parto de alunos de Medicina e de Enfermagem, residentes de Pediatria e de Neonatologia. Os dados foram analisados de forma descritiva. RESULTADOS: Das 36 maternidades, 23 recebiam alunos de Medicina: em 13, eles atuavam na sala de parto; 12 ofereciam ensino específico da reanimação e, em duas das 13 maternidades com internos atuando na sala de parto, não era oferecido treinamento em reanimação. Das 36 maternidades, 23 recebiam alunos de Enfermagem: em oito, os alunos atuavam na sala de parto. Apenas uma oferecia ensino, e nas outras sete não havia qualquer treinamento. Das 36 maternidades, 27 tinham residentes de Pediatria, que atuavam na sala de parto e recebiam treinamento em reanimação neonatal (teórico com 2-3 horas em quatro maternidades e teórico-prático com 4-64 horas em 23). Das 36 maternidades, 15 recebiam residentes em Neonatologia, que atuavam na sala de parto e recebiam treinamento em reanimação neonatal (teórico de 2 horas em uma e teórico-prático com 3-68 horas em 14). CONCLUSAO: O ensino de reanimação por meio de cursos formais é insuficiente para os alunos de graduação em Medicina e Enfermagem e heterogêneo para os residentes em Pediatria e em Neonatologia.

Training in Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative.

The Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) was initiated in India with focus on large hospitals initially and then spread to many parts of India. 'Ten steps to successful breastfeeding' form the basis of BFHI of which step 2 regarding training is critical for the success of this programme. The duration of training should be at least for 18 hours, including at least 3 hours of clinical practice. Programme managers and policy makers should take training of health care staff rather seriously for achieving the real success in implementing the BFHI policies laid down in steps 3 to 10.

Survey on adoption of measures to prevent nosocomial infection by anaesthesia personnel

To assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of anaesthesia personnel regarding infection control in hospitals, a questionnaire was distributed to anaesthesiology personnel of different educational levels in the hospitals of southern Islamic Republic of Iran. Chi-squared significance, Fisher exact and Spearman rho correlation coefficient tests were used to analyse the responses. The results suggest that measures to prevent infection transmission during anaesthesia are inadequate in our hospitals. The implementation of adequate measures to control infection was significantly associated with respondents' beliefs as to whether anaesthesia can cause infection in anaesthesia personnel and/or patients. Increasing the knowledge base of anaesthesia personnel and raising their awareness as to the risk of infection are necessary to improve infection control procedures by anaesthesia personnel