Analysing COVID-19 treatment outcomes in dedicated wards at a large university hospital in northern Poland: a result-based observational study.

OBJECTIVES: Presenting outcomes of patients hospitalised for COVID-19 should be put in context and comparison with other facilities. However, varied methodology applied in published studies can impede or even hinder a reliable comparison. The aim of this study is to share our experience in pandemic management and highlight previously under-reported factors affecting mortality. We present outcomes of COVID-19 treatment in our facility that will allow for an intercentre comparison. We use simple statistical parameters-case fatality ratio (CFR) and length of stay (LOS). SETTING: Large clinical hospital in northern Poland serving over 120 000 patients annually. PARTICIPANTS: Data were collected from patients hospitalised in COVID-19 general and intensive care unit (ICU) isolation wards from November 2020 to June 2021. The sample consisted of 640 patients-250 (39.1 %) were women and 390 (60.9 %) were men, with a median age of 69 (IQR 59-78) years. RESULTS: Values of LOS and CFR were calculated and analysed. Overall CFR for the analysed period was 24.8%, varying from 15.9 % during second quarter 2021 to 34.1% during fourth quarter 2020. The CFR was 23.2% in the general ward and 70.7% in the ICU. All ICU patients required intubation and mechanical ventilation, and 44 (75.9 %) of them developed acute respiratory distress syndrome. The average LOS was 12.6 (±7.5) days. CONCLUSIONS: We highlighted the importance of some of the under-reported factors affecting CFR, LOS and thus, mortality. For further multicentre analysis, we recommend broad analysis of factors affecting mortality in COVID-19 using simple and transparent statistical and clinical parameters.

Telemedicine consultation for emergency patients' attention: a clinical experience from a high complex university hospital from Latin America.

INTRODUCTION: As a result of the new coronavirus pandemic, a highly complex academic hospital in Latin America implemented a telemedicine service for the care of obstetric, pediatric, and adult patients. In 2020, regional emergency services collapsed due to the increase in demand for care, generating the need to open expansion services and seek strategies to provide timely care to consulting patients. OBJECTIVE: We retrospectively describe the clinical experience of patients who consulted the emergency department via telemedicine across a videoconference tool using digital platforms. METHODS: A descriptive study with retrospective data collection was conducted to describe the implementation of the teleconsultation care model for patients. We constructed the clinical process indicators to evaluate the model. RESULTS: A total of 4652 teleconsultations were registered. Telemedicine consultation was above 50% in the country and department and above 90% in Cali city. The average waiting time for care was estimated to be 1:59:52 h. A total of 275 patients were transferred to the emergency room after consultation. The principal reasons for consultation in the institutional telemedicine program were respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms. Teleconsultations related to SARS-COV 2 infections reported 3775 patients (3127 with unidentified virus and 648 with the identified virus). CONCLUSIONS: Telemedicine is a tool that provides support and guidance to patients who consult emergency departments, reducing barriers to access health care and decreasing emergency department collapse.

Factors associated with the SARS-CoV-2 infection among health professionals from university hospitals. / Factores asociados a la infección por SARS-CoV-2 en profesionales de la salud de hospitales universitarios.

to investigate factors associated with the SARS-CoV-2 infection among health professionals from university hospitals. a multicenter, mixed approach study with concomitant incorporated strategy, carried out with 559 professionals in the quantitative stage, and 599 in the qualitative stage. Four data collection instruments were used, applied by means of an electronic form. The quantitative analysis was performed with descriptive and inferential statistics and the qualitative data were processed by means of content analysis. the factors associated with the infection were as follows: performance of the RT-PCR test (p<0.001) and units offering care to COVID-19 patients (p=0.028). Having symptoms increased 5.63 times the prevalence of infection and adhering to social distancing most of the time in private life reduced it by 53.9%. The qualitative data evidenced difficulties faced by the professionals: scarcity and low quality of Personal Protective Equipment, work overload, physical distancing at work, inadequate processes and routines and lack of a mass screening and testing policy. the factors associated with the SARS-CoV-2 infection among health professionals were mostly related to occupational issues.

investigar los factores asociados a la infección por SARSCoV-2 en los profesionales de la salud de hospitales universitarios. estudio multicéntrico, con abordaje mixto con estrategia incorporada concomitante, realizado con 559 profesionales en la etapa cuantitativa, y 599 en la etapa cualitativa. Fueron utilizados cuatro instrumentos de recolección de datos, aplicados a través un formulario electrónico. El análisis cuantitativo se realizó mediante estadística descriptiva e inferencial y los datos cualitativos mediante análisis de contenido los factores asociados a la infección fueron: realización de la prueba "RT-PCR" (p<0,001) y unidades que atienden a pacientes con COVID-19 (p=0,028). Tener síntomas aumentó la prevalencia de infección 5,63 veces y cumplir la mayor parte del tiempo con el distanciamiento social en la vida privada la redujo un 53,9%. Los datos cualitativos mostraron las dificultades que enfrentaron los profesionales: escasez y baja calidad de equipos de protección personal, sobrecarga de trabajo, distanciamiento físico en el trabajo, procesos y rutinas inadecuados y la ausencia de una política de triage y testeo masivos. los factores asociados a la infección por SARS-CoV-2 en los profesionales de la salud se relacionaron mayormente con cuestiones laborales.

(1) Las cuestiones laborales influyeron en la protección de los profesionales durante la pandemia. (2) La alta adhesión a las precauciones estándar y al distanciamiento no disminuyeron los casos positivos. (3) La baja calidad de los EPP y las fallas en el triage dificultaron la protección en el trabajo. (4) La infraestructura hospitalaria no favoreció el distanciamiento físico entre los equipos.

investigar fatores associados à infecção por SARS-CoV-2 entre profissionais da saúde de hospitais universitários. estudo multicêntrico, de abordagem mista com estratégia incorporada concomitante, realizado com 559 profissionais na etapa quantitativa, e 599 na etapa qualitativa. Foram utilizados quatro instrumentos de coleta de dados, aplicados via formulário eletrônico. A análise quantitativa foi realizada com estatística descritiva e inferencial e os dados qualitativos por meio de análise de conteúdo. os fatores associados à infeção foram: realização de teste "RT-PCR" (p<0,001) e unidades com atendimento a pacientes com COVID-19 (p=0,028). Ter sintomas aumentou em 5,63 vezes a prevalência de infeção e aderir ao distanciamento social na maior parte do tempo na vida particular reduziu em 53,9%. Dados qualitativos evidenciaram dificuldades enfrentadas pelos profissionais: escassez e baixa qualidade de equipamentos de proteção individual, sobrecarga de trabalho, distanciamento físico no trabalho, processos e rotinas inadequadas e ausência de uma política de triagem e testagem em massa. os fatores associados à infecção por SARS-CoV-2 entre profissionais da saúde foram em sua maioria relacionados a questões ocupacionais.

Monkeypox viral nucleic acids detected using both DNA and RNA extraction workflows.

Molecular methods have been used to detect human pathogens in wastewater with sampling typically performed at wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) and upstream locations within the sewer system. A wastewater-based surveillance (WBS) program was established at the University of Miami (UM) in 2020, which included measurements of SARS-CoV-2 levels in wastewater from its hospital and within the regional WWTP. In addition to the development of a SARS-CoV-2 quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay, qPCR assays to detect other human pathogens of interest were also developed at UM. Here we report on the use of a modified set of reagents published by the CDC to detect nucleic acids of Monkeypox virus (MPXV) which emerged during May of 2022 to become a concern worldwide. Samples collected from the University hospital and from the regional WWTP were processed through DNA and RNA workflows and analyzed by qPCR to detect a segment of the MPXV CrmB gene. Results show positive detections of MPXV nucleic acids in the hospital and wastewater treatment plant wastewater which coincided with clinical cases in the community and mirrored the overall trend of nationwide MPXV cases reported to the CDC. We recommend the expansion of current WBS programs' methods to detect a broader range of pathogens of concern in wastewater and present evidence that viral RNA in human cells infected by a DNA virus can be detected in wastewater.

Molecular epidemiology of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae isolated from patients in COVID-19 wards and ICUs in a Bulgarian University Hospital.

Many studies report an increase in antimicrobial resistance of Gram - negative bacteria during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our aim was to evaluate the epidemiological relationship between carbapenem-resistant (CR) Enterobacteriaceae isolates from patients in COVID-19 wards and to investigate the main mechanisms of carbapenem resistance in these isolates during the period April 2020-July 2021. A total of 45 isolates were studied: Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 37), Klebsiella oxytoca (n = 2), Enterobacter cloacae complex (n = 4) and Escherichia coli (n = 2). Multiplex PCR was used for detection of genes encoding carbapenemases from different classes (blaKPC, blaIMP, blaVIM, blaNDM, blaOXA-48). For epidemiological typing and analysis, ERIC PCR was performed. Two clinical isolates of E. cloacae, previously identified as representatives of two dominant hospital clones from the period 2014-2017, were included in the study for comparison. In the CR K. pneumoniae group, 23 (62.2%) carried blaKPC, 13 (35.1%) blaNDM, 10 (27.0%) blaVIM, and 9 (24.3%) were positive for both blaKPC and blaVIM. The blaKPC was identified also in the two isolates of K. oxytoca and blaVIM in all E. cloacae complex isolates. The two CR isolates of E. coli possessed blaKPC and blaOXA-48 genes. Epidemiological typing identified 18 ERIC profiles among K. pneumoniae, some presented as clusters of identical and/or closely related isolates. The carbapenem resistance in the studied collection of isolates is mediated mainly by blaKPC. During the COVID-19 pandemic intrahospital dissemination of CR K. pneumoniae, producing carbapenemases of different molecular classes, as well as continuing circulation of dominant hospital clones of multidrug-resistant E. cloacae complex was documented.

Work alienation influences nurses' readiness for professional development and willingness to learn: A cross-sectional correlation study.

Work alienation has a negative impact on nursing profession and may affect professional nursing development and willingness to learn during the era of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The aim of this study was to explore the perceived levels of professional development, willingness to learn, and work alienation during this pandemic among nurses in Jordan. It also assessed the influence of work alienation and sociodemographic factors on readiness for professional development and willingness to learn. We used a cross-sectional correlation study design using the Arabic readiness for professional development and willingness to learn and work alienation scales among 328 nurses working in Jordan University Hospital, Amman-Jordan. Data were collected during the period of October and November 2021. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (Mean ± Standard deviation), Pearson correlation coefficient (r), and regression analysis. The perceived levels of work alienation (3.12 ± 1.01) and readiness for professional development and willingness to learn (3.51 ± 0.43) among nurses were found to be at high levels during this era. Work alienation was negatively associated with readiness for professional development and willingness to learn (r = -0.54, p <0.001). The higher educational level of a nurse was found to be associated with a higher work alienation (r = -0.16, p = 0.008). Results indicated that work alienation had a direct influence on readiness for professional development and willingness to learn among nurses (R2 = 0.287, p < 0.001). Work alienation among nurses seems to be increased during the pandemic and it has reduced their readiness for professional development and willingness to learn. Nurse managers at hospitals must assess the perceived level of work alienation among nurses annually and design appropriate counseling interventions programs to reduce their work alienation and increase their willingness to learn.

Strategies for coping with the COVID-19 pandemic in university hospitals: a descriptive study / Estratégias para o enfrentamento da pandemia de COVID-19 em hospitais universitários: estudo descritivo / Estrategias para enfrentar la pandemia de COVID-19 en hospitales universitarios: estudio descriptivo

OBJETIVO: Descrever estratégias desenvolvidas para o enfrentamento da pandemia de COVID-19 em hospitais universitários. MÉTODO: Pesquisa descritiva, com abordagem quanti-qualitativa, desenvolvida a partir de um survey online com 104 enfermeiros de três hospitais universitários brasileiros. O processamento dos dados foi realizado por meio de análise textual com auxílio do software IRAMUTEQ®. RESULTADOS: Foram obtidas seis classes semânticas que representam as principais estratégias desenvolvidas para o enfrentamento da pandemia de COVID-19 no ambiente hospitalar: 1) Fornecimento de Equipamentos de Proteção Individual (17,2%); 2) Capacitações da equipe para o cuidado (18,8%); 3) Treinamento da equipe de apoio (15,6%); 4) Aquisição de equipamentos com boa qualidade (14,1%); 5) Definição de fluxos institucionais (20,5%) e 6) Promoção de apoio psicológico (14,1%). CONCLUSÃO: As estratégias elencadas pelos enfermeiros têm contribuído para a qualidade da assistência prestada aos pacientes, bem como a manutenção da saúde do trabalhador.

OBJECTIVE: To describe strategies developed to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic in university hospitals. METHOD: A descriptive research study with a quantitative and qualitative approach, developed from an online survey with 104 nurses from three Brazilian university hospitals. Data processing was performed through textual analysis with the aid of the IRAMUTEQ® software. RESULTS: Six semantic classes were obtained that represent the main strategies developed to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic in the hospital environment: 1) Provision of Personal Protective Equipment (17.2%); 2) Training of the team for the care to be provided (18.8%); 3) Training of the support team (15.6%); 4) Acquisition of good quality equipment (14.1%); 5) Definition of institutional flows (20.5%); and 6) Promotion of psychological support (14.1%). CONCLUSION: The strategies listed by the nurses have contributed to the quality of the care provided to the patients, as well as to preserving the workers' health.

OBJETIVO: Describir las estrategias que se desarrollaron en los hospitales universitarios para enfrentar la pandemia de COVID-19. MÉTODO: Investigación descriptiva, con enfoque cuantitativo y cualitativo, desarrollada a partir de survey online con 104 enfermeros de tres hospitales universitarios brasileños. El procesamiento de datos se realizó mediante análisis textual con la ayuda del software IRAMUTEQ®. RESULTADOS: Se obtuvieron seis clases semánticas que representan las principales estrategias desarrolladas para enfrentar la pandemia de COVID-19 en el ámbito hospitalario: 1) Suministro de Equipos de Protección Personal (17,2%); 2) Capacitación del equipo para la atención (18,8%); 3) Entrenamiento del equipo de apoyo (15,6%); 4) Adquisición de equipos de buena calidad (14,1%); 5) Definición de flujos institucionales (20,5%) y 6) Promoción de apoyo psicológico (14,1%). CONCLUSIÓN: Las estrategias enumeradas por los enfermeros han contribuido a la calidad de la atención que se les prestó a los pacientes y a mantener la salud de los trabajadores.

Fungal infection profile in critically ill COVID-19 patients: a prospective study at a large teaching hospital in a middle-income country.

BACKGROUND: Critically ill COVID-19 patients are highly susceptible to opportunistic fungal infection due to many factors, including virus-induced immune dysregulation, host-related comorbidities, overuse and misuse of antibiotics or corticosteroids, immune modulator drugs, and the emergencies caused by the pandemic. This study aimed to assess the incidence, identify the potential risk factors, and examine the impact of fungal coinfection on the outcomes of COVID-19 patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). METHODS: A prospective cohort study including 253 critically ill COVID-19 patients aged 18 years or older admitted to the isolation ICU of Zagazig University Hospitals over a 4-month period from May 2021 to August 2021 was conducted. The detection of a fungal infection was carried out. RESULTS: Eighty-three (83) patients (32.8%) were diagnosed with a fungal coinfection. Candida was the most frequently isolated fungus in 61 (24.1%) of 253 critically ill COVID-19 patients, followed by molds, which included Aspergillus 11 (4.3%) and mucormycosis in five patients (1.97%), and six patients (2.4%) diagnosed with other rare fungi. Poor diabetic control, prolonged or high-dose steroids, and multiple comorbidities were all possible risk factors for fungal coinfection [OR (95% CI) = 10.21 (3.43-30.39), 14.1 (5.67-35.10), 14.57 (5.83-33.78), and 4.57 (1.83-14.88), respectively]. CONCLUSION: Fungal coinfection is a common complication of critically ill COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU. Candidiasis, aspergillosis, and mucormycosis are the most common COVID-19-associated fungal infections and have a great impact on mortality rates.

'Social' media? How Swiss hospitals used social media platforms during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis.

OBJECTIVES: This paper about social media platforms of Swiss hospitals refers to the period between 10 February 2020 and 6 July 2020. The study included in-depth insights into the use of platforms, content analyses of posts and resonance of the posts. The study's objective was to get insights into social media post creation by and corresponding resonance in pandemic crisis. STUDY DESIGN: This study included collection and analyses of posts created by a selection of Swiss hospitals during the period of study. All university hospitals and a variety of private and regional hospitals in all regions of Switzerland are represented. The data collection started before the official shutdown in Switzerland. METHODS: This study used mixed method approach and content analysis to evaluate 2,326 posts during the study period related to the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS: During the first phase of the pandemic, hospitals used social media platforms more frequently than normal. Especially in the first month, the number of posts rose disproportionally. The numbers dropped back to the initial situation after only 4 months into the COVID-19 pandemic. Most hospitals used Facebook and Twitter, whereas Instagram and YouTube's use were marginal. University hospitals used social media platforms differently than regional hospitals. CONCLUSION: Most posts generated only a very low response with a median of 2. Hospitals were therefore not able to create engagement of their followers. However, hospitals that publish actively were able to build a more active community. Only a small number of posts led to heated discussions in the comments. These viral posts shared information on the illness, the vaccination, children and COVID-19.

COVID-19 in Liver Transplant Patients: A University Hospital Experience.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to examine the comorbidity, disease progress, and vaccination status of liver transplant patients followed up in our hospital who had COVID-19. METHODS: Liver transplant patients with COVID-19 were included between 11 March 2020 and 15 September 2022. Demographic data, disease progress, and COVID-19 vaccines were recorded. The SPSS 24.0 (IBM SPSS, Inc, Armonk, NY, United States) program was used for analysis. The data were analyzed using the χ2 test. P values < .05 were considered clinically significant. RESULTS: Sixteen SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction (+) patients were detected. Twelve (75.0%) patients were male; the mean age was 49.56 ± 14.0 years (24-76 years). The mean transplant time was 156.69 ± 54.05 months. Four (25.0%) of the 5 (31.3%) patients with comorbidities had hypertension, and 1 (6.3%) had diabetes. None of the patients had an underlying lung disease. All the patients received immunosuppressive therapy, and the most common combination was antimetabolite and calcineurin inhibitor (9 patients [69.2%]). Nine patients (56.3%) had a fever, whereas 6 (37.5%) had respiratory symptoms. Two (33.3%) had pneumonia. Five (31.4%) patients were hospitalized, and 1 (20%) was admitted to the intensive care unit due to non-invasive mechanical ventilation needs. No patient died due to COVID-19. A statistically significant correlation was found between the presence of fever, respiratory symptoms, and hospitalization (P < .05). Of those vaccinated, 10 (66.7%) were infected before the COVID-19 vaccination. CONCLUSIONS: The course of COVID-19 in liver recipients without any underlying disease other than transplantation is not different from that in the healthy population. Immunosuppressive therapy was continued in patients with the disease, and two-thirds did not require hospitalization.

The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Care of Women Experiencing Abortion in a University Hospital in Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on the care of patients with miscarriage and legal termination of pregnancy in a university hospital in Brazil. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of women admitted for abortion due to any cause at Hospital da Mulher Prof. Dr. J. A. Pinotti of Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Brazil, between July 2017 and September 2021. Dependent variables were abortion-related complications and legal interruption of pregnancy. Independent variables were prepandemic period (until February 2020) and pandemic period (from March 2020). The Cochran-Armitage test, Chi-squared test, Mann-Whitney test, and multiple logistic regression were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: Five-hundred sixty-one women were included, 376 during the prepandemic period and 185 in the pandemic period. Most patients during pandemic were single, without comorbidities, had unplanned pregnancy, and chose to initiate contraceptive method after hospital discharge. There was no significant tendency toward changes in the number of legal interruptions or complications. Complications were associated to failure of the contraceptive method (odds ratio [OR] 2.44; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.23-4.84), gestational age (OR 1.126; 95% CI 1.039-1.219), and preparation of the uterine cervix with misoprostol (OR 1.99; 95% CI 1.01-3.96). CONCLUSION: There were no significant differences in duration of symptoms, transportation to the hospital, or tendency of reducing the number of legal abortions and increasing complications. The patients' profile probably reflects the impact of the pandemic on family planning.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o impacto da pandemia de coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) no atendimento de pacientes com aborto espontâneo e interrupção legal da gravidez em um hospital universitário no Brasil. MéTODOS: Estudo transversal com mulheres admitidas por aborto por qualquer causa no Hospital da Mulher Prof. Dr. J. A. Pinotti da Universidade de Campinas (UNICAMP), Brasil, entre julho de 2017 e setembro de 2021. As variáveis dependentes foram complicações relacionadas ao aborto e interrupção legal da gravidez. As variáveis independentes foram período pré-pandemia (até fevereiro de 2020) e período pandêmico (a partir de março de 2020). O teste de Cochran-Armitage, teste do qui-quadrado, teste de Mann-Whitney e regressão logística múltipla foram utilizados para análise estatística. RESULTADOS: Foram incluídas 561 mulheres, 376 no período pré-pandemia e 185 no período pandêmico. A maioria das pacientes durante a pandemia era solteira, sem comorbidades, teve gravidez não planejada e optou por iniciar método anticoncepcional após a alta hospitalar. Não houve tendência significativa para mudanças no número de interrupções legais ou complicações. As complicações foram associadas a: falha do método contraceptivo (razão de chances [RC] 2,44; intervalo de confiança [IC] 95% 1,23­4,84), idade gestacional (RC 1,126; IC 95% 1,039­1,219) e preparo do colo uterino com misoprostol (RC 1,99; IC 95% 1,01­3,96). CONCLUSãO: Não houve diferenças significativas na duração dos sintomas, transporte ao hospital ou tendência de redução do número de abortos legais e aumento de complicações. O perfil das pacientes provavelmente reflete o impacto da pandemia no planejamento familiar.

Knowledge, attitudes and adherence towards influenza and other vaccinations among healthcare workers at the University Hospital of Palermo, Italy, during the first COVID-19 pandemic season (2020/2021).

Background: Increasing adherence to influenza vaccination among healthcare workers is a public health priority, stated that actually remains far below than international recommendations. During the 2020/2021 pandemic season, COVID-19 vaccines were not yet available until the end of December 2020, and influenza vaccines were the only one available to protect against seasonal respiratory diseases. The main objective of the present study was to assess knowledge, attitudes and adherence to influenza and other vaccinations recommended by the National Immunization Plan 2017-2021 for healthcare workers. Methods: Enrollment lasted from October and December 2020 at the vaccination unit of the University Hospital of Palermo. Data were collected through an anonymous and self-administered questionnaire, divided into 5 sections and 31 items. Results: Among 734 healthcare professionals that completed the survey, a significantly higher adherence to influenza vaccination was observed among healthcare workers that were more prone to receive COVID-19 vaccination (OR=4.02; 95% CI: 1.63-9.91). Moreover, higher influenza vaccination rates were observed among healthcare professionals that received influenza vaccination during previous 2019/2020 season (OR=15.3; 95% CI: 5.17-45.1) and that were favorable to the possible impact on increasing adherence of influenza mandatory vaccination (OR=4.88; 95% CI: 2.43-9.80). Conclusions: Propensity of healthcare workers to undergo vaccinations recommended in the National Immunization Plan increased during the first pandemic season. At the end of the vaccination season, flu vaccination coverage reached highest rates ever at the University Hospital of Palermo (around 60%), remaining anyway below the recommended minimum value of 75%. During next seasonal flu vaccination campaigns, it becomes essential to promote communication and information strategies to increase flu vaccination among healthcare workers, also focusing on co-administration with the anti-COVID-19 booster/seasonal doses.

Prevalence and characteristics of needlestick injuries among dental interns during their first-year clinical training: an observational study.

BACKGROUND: Dental interns are vulnerable to needlestick injuries (NSI). The objectives of this study were to examine the prevalence and characteristics of NSI exposures among dental interns during their first-year clinical training, assess risk factors, and evaluate reporting behaviours. METHODS: An online survey was conducted among dental interns of Class 2011-2017 at Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology (PKUSS), China. The self-administrated questionnaire consisted of information on demographic profiles, NSI characteristics, and reporting practices. The outcomes were presented by descriptive statistics. A multivariate regression analysis was performed to assess NSI sources using a forward step-wise approach. RESULTS: A total of 407 dental interns completed the survey (response rate 91.9%, 407/443), and 23.8% sustained at least one NSI. The mean number of NSIs per intern was 0.28 during the first clinical year. More occupation exposures occurred from October to December, between 13:00-15:00. Syringe needles were the most frequent sources, followed by dental burs, suture needles, and ultrasonic chips. The risk of peer-inflicted NSIs in the department of Paediatric Dentistry was 12.1 times higher than that in Oral Surgery (OR 12.1, 95% CI: 1.4-101.4). Appropriately 64.9% NSIs occurred when chairside assistants were absent. Compared to working alone, the risk of peer-inflicted NSIs was 32.3 times higher when providing chairside assistance (OR 32.3, 95% CI: 7.2-145.4). The left-hand index finger was the most commonly injured site. About 71.4% of exposures were reported in paperwork. CONCLUSIONS: Dental interns are susceptible to NSIs during their first-year clinical training. Extra attention should be paid to syringe needles, dental burs, suture needles, and ultrasonic chips. The lack of chairside assistance is hazardous regarding NSIs. The training of chairside assistance of the first-year dental interns should be enhanced. First-year dental interns are required to increase their awareness of ignored behaviors related to NSI exposures.

Emergency Air Transport of Patients with Acute Chest Pain in the Adriatic Islands of Croatia: A Four-Year Analysis.

BACKGROUND: An efficient first-aid system usually supports ground services with a helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS). An HEMS is important for patients with acute chest pain on remote islands. The current study sought to identify the characteristics of HEMS in acute chest pain cases on the Croatian Adriatic islands over a four-year period. METHODS: We conducted a four-year observational study to investigate HEMS from Adriatic islands. The study population consisted of all patients with acute coronary syndrome or pulmonary embolisms who were urgently transferred by HEMS to the University Hospital in Split 1 June 2018-1 June 2022. RESULTS: During the observation period, 222 adult patients (67 females, or 30.2%) were urgently transferred. The mean age was 71.81 ± 13.42 years. The most common diagnosis was ST-elevated myocardial infarction (113, 50.9%). Most of the HEMS cases were from Hvar (91, 41.0%). The mean call-to-flight time was 19.10 ± 10.94 min, and the total time from call to hospital was 68.50 ± 22.29 min. The total time from call to hospital was significantly correlated with call-to-flight time (r = 0.761, P < 0.001). Of the 222 participants, 5 (2.25%) were transported for more than 120 min, and 35 (15.8%) were transported for more than 90 min. CONCLUSION: This study provided a detailed insight into HEMS in the area of the Croatian Adriatic islands. The average time from the call to the helicopter taking off was 19.10 min. An increase in dispatching time has a significant impact on the prolongation of the total time for the hospital admission. Shortening the response time is critical to reducing hospital arrival time.

Patients with Post-Covid-19 Syndrome are at risk of malnutrition and obesity: findings of outpatient follow-up / Pacientes com Síndrome Pós-Covid-19 apresentam risco de desnutrição e obesidade: achados de um ambulatório de seguimento

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the nutritional and functional status, swallowing disorders, and musculoskeletal manifestations of patients with Post-Covid-19 Syndrome, stratified by the Appendicular Skeletal Muscle Mass Index. Methods This is a cross-sectional study with patients diagnosed with Post-Covid-19 Syndrome after discharge from the intensive care unit of a university hospital. The evaluated outcomes were: nutritional status (Mini Nutritional Assessment, bioimpedance and anthropometry), swallowing disorders (Dysphagia Risk Evaluation Protocol), functional status (Post-Covid-19 Functional Status Scale), and musculoskeletal manifestations. According to the Appendicular Skeletal Muscle Mass Index, patients were stratified in terms of loss or not loss of muscle mass. Results Thirty-eight patients were included in the study, 20 stratified into the no loss of muscle mass group (17 females; 49.45±12.67 years) and 18 into the loss of muscle mass group (18 males; 61.89±12.49 years). Both groups were at risk of malnutrition (Mini Nutritional Assessment scores between 17-23.5 points; No Loss of Muscle Mass Group: 21.82±3.93; Loss of Muscle Mass Group: 23.33±3.41) and obesity (No Loss of Muscle Mass Group: 33.76±6.34; Loss of Muscle Mass Group: 30.23±3.66). The groups differed in terms of bioimpedance parameters (except fat mass) and age. However, there were no differences in swallowing alterations, functional status, and musculoskeletal manifestations. Conclusion Patients with Post-Covid-19 Syndrome, stratified according to the Appendicular Skeletal Muscle Mass Index, were at risk of malnutrition and obesity. The persistence of fatigue, weakness, myalgia and arthralgia at 6 months after hospital discharge is noteworthy. These findings emphasize the importance of comprehensive care for patients with Post-Covid-19 Syndrome.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar o estado nutricional, status funcional, alterações de deglutição e manifestações musculoesqueléticas de pacientes com Síndrome Pós-Covid-19, estratificados pelo Índice de Massa Muscular Esquelética Apendicular. Métodos Estudo transversal composto por pacientes diagnosticados com a Síndrome Pós-Covid-19 que estiveram internados na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva de um hospital universitário. Os desfechos avaliados foram: estado nutricional (Mini Avaliação Nutricional; bioimpedância e antropometria), alterações de deglutição (Protocolo Fonoaudiológico de Avaliação do Risco de Disfagia), status funcional (Post-Covid-19 Functional Status Scale) e manifestações musculoesqueléticas. Os pacientes foram classificados, quanto à perda de massa muscular conforme o Índice de Massa Muscular Esquelética Apendicular, em grupo sem e com perda de massa muscular. Resultados Foram inseridos no estudo 38 pacientes, 20 no grupo sem perda de massa muscular (17 deles do sexo feminino; 49,45±12,67 anos) e 18 no grupo com perda de massa muscular (todos do sexo masculino; 61,89±12,49 anos). Os pacientes de ambos os grupos apresentaram risco de desnutrição (escores Mini Avaliação Nutricional entre 17-23.5 pontos; Grupo Sem Perda de Massa Muscular: 21,82±3,93; Grupo Com Perda de Massa Muscular: 23,33±3,41) e obesidade (Grupo Sem Perda de Massa Muscular: 33,76±6,34; Grupo Com Perda de Massa Muscular: 30,23±3,66). Os grupos diferiram quanto aos parâmetros da bioimpedância (exceto massa gorda) e idade. Entretanto, não foram observadas diferenças na deglutição, status funcional e manifestações musculoesqueléticas. Conclusão Os pacientes com Síndrome Pós-Covid-19, estratificados conforme o Índice de Massa Muscular Esquelética Apendicular, apresentaram risco de desnutrição e obesidade. Destaca-se a persistência de fadiga, fraqueza, mialgia e artralgia após seis meses da alta hospitalar. Esses achados ressaltam a importância do cuidado integral ao paciente com a Síndrome Pós-Covid-19.

Safety and training of colonoscopies by surgeons. A multicenter study / Seguridad y entrenamiento de las colonoscopias por cirujanos. Estudio multicéntrico

RESUMEN Introducción: la seguridad de la colonoscopia realizada por cirujanos y el tratamiento de sus complica ciones han sido analizados aisladamente y en escasas publicaciones nacionales. Objetivos: el objetivo principal del estudio fue analizar las colonoscopias realizadas por cirujanos co lorrectales, sus complicaciones y resolución. El objetivo secundario fue comparar los resultados entre un hospital universitario y distintos centros del país dotados de cirujanos colorrectales que habían recibido entrenamiento en una residencia posbásica. Material y métodos: estudio multicéntrico, prospectivo a nivel nacional. Se incluyeron las colonosco pias realizadas entre 2011 y 2016 . Se analizaron como variables las complicaciones, edad, sexo, tipo de endoscopia, diagnóstico, tratamiento, sitio de realización y de entrenamiento del cirujano. Se ex presaron en promedios, porcentajes y rangos. El análisis estadístico consistió en el test exacto ordinal, relaciones y proporciones y exacto de Fisher. Se consideró significancia a p < 0,05. Resultados: de 24 907 procedimientos, 17 283 fueron diagnósticos y 17 202 provenían de centros del interior. Hubo 43 complicaciones (0,17%); 35 específicas: perforaciones (19), hemorragias (8), sín drome pospolipectomía (5) y técnicas (3), diagnosticadas y resueltas por el mismo equipo sin mor bimortalidad. No hubo diferencias en las complicaciones según el centro ni tipo de colonoscopia en incidencia o tratamiento. Todos los cirujanos se entrenaron en residencias de posgrado con programas de entrenamiento en colonoscopia. Conclusiones: existen similares resultados entre cirujanos provenientes de instituciones con residen cia posbásica y centros del interior al realizar colonoscopias. La colonoscopia realizada por cirujanos es un procedimiento seguro y posible de ser adquirido como competencia luego de un entrenamiento formal realizado en una residencia posbásica.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The safety of colonoscopies performed by surgeons and the management of their com plications has not been analyzed in depth in the low number of national publications. Objective: The primary endpoint of this study was to analyze the outcomes of colonoscopies perfor med by colorectal surgeons, in terms of complications. and their resolution. The secondary endpoint was to compare the results between a university hospital and different centers nationwide staffed with colorectal surgeons who had received formal training during a residency program in the surgical subspecialty. Material and methods: We conducted a multicenter, prospective and consecutive national study. The colonscopies performed between 2011 and 2016 were included. The variables analyzed included complications, age, sex, type of endoscopy, diagnosis, treatment, location were the procedure was performed and surgeon's training. The results were expressed as mean, percentage and range. The statistical analysis was performed using Fisher's exact test. A p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 24,907 procedures were performed, 17,283 corresponded to diagnostic colonosco pies and 17,202 were made in provincial centers. Forty-four complications were recorded (0.17%), of which 35 were procedure-related complications: 19 perforations, 8 bleeding events, 5 post-polypec tomy syndromes and three related with the technique; all were diagnosed and solved by the same team without morbidity and mortality. There were no differences in the incidence of complications and how they were treated according to the center or type of colonoscopy. All the surgeons received colonoscopy training during a residency program in the surgical subspecialty. Conclusions: The results obtained in colonoscopies performed by surgeons trained in institutions with residency programs in surgical subspecialties are similar t Safe colonoscopies can be performed by surgeons who have been trained in institutions with a residency program in a surgical subspecialty and with a formal training program in colonoscopy.

Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of combined asynchronous telemonitoring and patient-initiated care for spondyloarthritis: protocol for a pragmatic multicentre randomised controlled trial (TeleSpA Study).

INTRODUCTION: During the COVID-19 pandemic, an accelerated uptake of remote monitoring strategies, replacing traditional face-to-face care, has been observed. However, data on the effects of remote care interventions for patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases remain scarce and interpretation is hampered by study heterogeneity and research quality concerns. High-quality evidence is required to guide future implementation in clinical practice, with health economic analyses identified as an important knowledge gap. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing telemonitoring with conventional care for patients with spondyloarthritis (SpA) are currently lacking. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: TeleSpA is a pragmatic, multicentre RCT investigating the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of combined asynchronous telemonitoring and patient-initiated follow-up for patients with SpA, compared with conventional care. Two-hundred patients will be recruited at two hospitals and randomised (1:1) to the study intervention or standard care. The primary endpoint is a reduction in the number of follow-up visits by ≥25% in the intervention compared with standard care group, during a 1-year period. Secondary endpoints are (a) non-inferiority of the study intervention with regard to health outcomes, quality of care and patient-reported experience with care; and (b) cost-effectiveness of the intervention, evaluated through a prospective trial-based cost-utility analysis. In addition, experiences with the study intervention will be assessed among patients and healthcare providers, and factors associated with primary and secondary endpoints will be identified. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This study was approved by the Medical Research Ethics Committee of the Academic Hospital Maastricht/Maastricht University (NL71041.068.19/METC 19-059). Results will be disseminated through publications in peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT04673825.

Technology-enabled virtual ward for COVID management of the elderly and immunocompromised in Singapore: a descriptive cohort.

BACKGROUND: To address the hospital bed demand for Delta and Omicron surges in Singapore, the National University Health System (NUHS) developed a COVID Virtual Ward to relieve bed pressures on its three acute hospitals-National University Hospital, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, Alexandra Hospital. To serve a multilingual population, the COVID Virtual Ward featuring protocolized teleconsultation of high-risk patients, use of a vital signs chatbot, supplemented by home visits where necessary. This study aims to evaluate the safety, outcomes and utilisation of the Virtual Ward as a scalable response to COVID-19 surges. METHODS: This is a retrospective cohort study of all patients admitted to the COVID Virtual Ward between 23 September to 9 November 2021. Patients were defined as "early discharge" if they were referred from inpatient COVID-19 wards and "admission avoidance" if they were referred directly from primary care or emergency services. Patient demographics, utilisation measures and clinical outcomes were extracted from the electronic health record system. The primary outcomes were escalation to hospital and mortality. Use of the vital signs chatbot was evaluated by examining compliance levels, need for automated reminders and alerts triggered. Patient experience was evaluated using data extracted from a quality improvement feedback form. RESULTS: 238 patients were admitted to the COVID Virtual Ward from 23 September to 9 November, of whom 42% were male, 67.6% of Chinese ethnicity. 43.7% were over the age of 70, 20.5% were immunocompromised, and 36.6% were not fully vaccinated. 17.2% of patients were escalated to hospital and 2.1% of patients died. Patients who were escalated to hospital were more likely to be immunocompromised or to have a higher ISARIC 4C-Mortality Score. There were no missed deteriorations. All patients received teleconsults (median of 5 teleconsults per patient, IQR 3-7). 21.4% of patients received home visits. 77.7% of patients engaged with the vital signs chatbot, with a compliance rate of 84%. All patients would recommend the programme to others in their situation. CONCLUSIONS: Virtual Wards are a scalable, safe and patient-centered strategy to care for high risk COVID-19 patients at home. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NA.

The Effect of COVID-19 in a University Hospital Neurosurgery Clinic Comparison to Prepandemic Period: A Retrospective Study with 6 months of Data.

BACKGROUND: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic affected all countries' health systems and people's lifestyles. In this study, we aimed to investigate its effects in a university hospital neurosurgery clinic. METHODS: The 2019 year's 6 months' data as a prepandemic period compared to the 2020 year's same period as a pandemic date. Demographic data were collected. Operations were divided into seven groups: tumor, spinal, vascular, cerebrospinal fluid disorders, hematoma, local, and minor surgery, respectively. We classified the hematoma cluster into subgroups to evaluate the etiology: epidural, acute subdural, subarachnoid hemorrhage, intracerebral hemorrhage, depressed skull fractures, and others. Patients' COVID-19 test results were collected. RESULTS: Total operations decreased from 972 to 795 (Δ18.2%) during the pandemic. All groups, except minor surgery cases, decreased compared to the prepandemic period. Also, vascular procedures for females increased during the pandemic period. While focusing on the hematoma subgroups, there was decreasing in epidural and subdural hematomas, depressed skull fractures, and total case numbers; an increase in subarachnoid hemorrhage and intracerebral hemorrhage. Overall mortality significantly increased to 9.6% from 6.8% during the pandemic (P = 0.033). Eight (1.0%) of 795 patients were COVID-19-positive; three of them died. Neurosurgery residents and academicians were unsatisfied with decreased number of operations, training, and research productivity. CONCLUSIONS: The pandemic and restrictions affected negatively the health system and people's access to healthcare. Our retrospective observational study aimed to evaluate these effects and take lessons for the next similar situations. People's access to health care should be considered when lockdown restrictions.