Deep Learning Optimization for Lens-Free Holographic Imaging and SARS-CoV-2 Biosensing

Rapid biosensing assays to detect SARS-CoV-2 are critical in mitigating the impact of the pandemic. Here, we use a lens-free holographic microscope coupled with deep learning in a rapid and sensitive assay to detect SARS-CoV-2. © 2022 The Author(s)

Deep Learning Optimization for Lens-Free Holographic Imaging and SARS-CoV-2 Biosensing

Rapid biosensing assays to detect SARS-CoV-2 are critical in mitigating the impact of the pandemic. Here, we use a lens-free holographic microscope coupled with deep learning in a rapid and sensitive assay to detect SARS-CoV-2. © 2022 The Author(s)

Evaluation of Vascular Access Team Initiatives through in-Depth Interviews: Perspectives from Nine Countries

Introduction: The implementation of vascular access teams (VATs) has been shown to improve patient outcomes and reduce vascular access device-related complications. However, VAT-related research is limited to a European study and single-centered investigations. This research aims to explore the global VAT landscape and examine under-evaluated facets of VAT initiatives. Method(s): Fourteen VAT members and leaders from nine countries (Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Italy, Sweden, UK, USA) were identified through judgment sampling. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted between October 2020 and January 2021. A detailed questionnaire was developed based on a comprehensive literature review to identify under-researched facets regarding VATs, including team composition, responsibilities, formation and recruitment processes, VAT components and co-initiatives, direct/downstream impacts of VAT initiatives, and the collection/dissemination of VAT-related data. Result(s): The most common VAT responsibilities were catheter insertions (n=14) and clinician training (n=12). On a scale from 1 to 7, patient satisfaction (6.5) and institutional costs (6.2) ranked the highest among observed improvements following VAT implementation. All interviewees (n=14) reported using evidence-based protocols and advanced technologies (e.g., ultrasound guidance) in their practices. Although most institutions (n=9) did not collect VAT-related data, all participants (n=14) emphasized the importance of data collection and dissemination to demonstrate VAT initiative impacts. Time constraints (n=8) and challenges to continuous data collection/simplifying data analyses (n=4) were also reported as major deterrents to data circulation. According to most participants (n=9), the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with increased demands for VAT services. Discussion and conclusion: Respondents from multiple geographies and with diverse backgrounds overwhelmingly endorsed the benefits of VAT initiatives. Based on the insights collected from nine countries, the findings of this study demonstrate that the formation of dedicated VATs, combined with the use of evidence-based practices and advanced technologies, can lead to significant improvements in clinical, economic, efficiency, and patient satisfaction outcomes.

USE OF NEW MOBILITY SCORE AND A TRANS-DISCIPLINARY APPROACH TO REDUCE HOSPITAL LOS, RETURN TO ORIGINAL RESIDENCE, AND MORTALITY

Introduction: The National Hip Fracture Database indicated Guy's and St Thomas' Trust ranked in the fourth quartile nationally with reference to hospital length of stay (LOS), ∗Note 1 and 2 co lead authors return to original residence (ROR), and mortality in hip fracture patients in 2018. This quality improvement project aimed to improve and maintain these key factors via a twostage process. Methods: Stage one involved implementation of four key interventions through a transdisciplinary focus group, comprising ortho-geriatricians, orthopaedic surgeons, physiotherapists (PT), occupational therapists (OT), nursing staff, and a transfer of care navigator (TCN). Firstly, the New Mobility Score (NMS) was employed as a tool to guide estimated length of stay. Secondly, use of preoperative OT assessment allowed early evaluation of patient expectations concerning discharge planning. Third, facilitation of the discharge process was optimised by the recruitment of a TCN. Lastly, attendance of a senior orthogeriatrician during the daily board round was established. Stage two involved education of new members of the trans-disciplinary team to ensure that the key interventions listed above were maintained on hip fracture patients. Results: Following stage one, average acute hospital LOS and overall LOS decreased from 20.1 to 15.1 days and 22.4 to 18.3 days, respectively. Rate of ROR within 120 days of discharge improved from 72.4% to 86.9%, while mortality rates fell from 7.1 to 3.4. Following stage two, overall LOS improved to 17.1 days, while acute LOS and mortality were maintained at 15.6 and 3.9 days, respectively. While ROR fell to 82.8%, this remained higher than the national average at 69.9%. Conclusions: Utilisation of NMS and multi-disciplinary input effectively improved ROR, while reducing length of hospital stay and mortality rates in hip fracture patients. Education of new members of the trans-disciplinary team allowed sustained improvement despite challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Using visual art for patient, family and staff education in the pediatric intensive care unit: A case study

AIMS & OBJECTIVES: A child's stay in the PICU is accompanied by major changes in their routine, which can have negative short-term and long-term consequences for their health-related quality of life. The use of visual learning tools in pediatric critical care can help in education and promotion of strategies to limit these effects by closing gaps in understanding and encouraging engagement of children, their families, and healthcare workers. METHODS: In 2019, we began an initiative in our tertiary care children's hospital to utilize art to optimize PICU Liberation education for critically ill children, their families, and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) Staff. An interprofessional champion team determined the highest priorities for education and obtained feedback from their own discipline's stakeholders: 1) Education about sleep hygiene (Figure 1) and 2) Promoting early mobility (Figure 2). With the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an additional urgent need identified for education about personal protective equipment to optimize safe mobility (Figure 3). The visual artist generated several drafts for review and feedback by the team and the final art was disseminated broadly throughout the PICU hallways, patient rooms, and entrances. RESULTS: The visual art was highly received by staff, patients, and families. CONCLUSIONS: As a learning tool, visual art can be used to increase awareness and address timely PICU topics. It should be explored further as an educational tool to help establish shared understanding between PICU staff, patients, and their families in a way that can transcend communication barriers while remaining engaging for all ages.