[Clinical, electrical and echocardiographic characteristics of patients with advanced interatrial block]. / Características clínicas, eléctricas y ecocardiográficas de los pacientes con bloqueo interauricular avanzado.

El haz de Bachmann se compone de un conjunto de fibras miocárdicas paralelas y especializadas, responsables del 80% de la conducción interauricular. Discurre por las paredes anterosuperiores auriculares, y su afectación da lugar al bloqueo interauricular (BIA); éste puede ser: a) parcial (BIA-p) si la conducción está retrasada (en el ECG produce una onda P ≥ 120 ms) o b) avanzado (BIA-a) si está del todo interrumpida y la despolarización auricular izquierda (AI) ocurre en dirección retrógrada caudocraneal (la onda P es ≥ 120 ms y bifásica +/- en las derivaciones inferiores II, III y VF)1.

Differential characteristics of the typical and atypical advanced interatrial block.

Objetivo: Se denomina bloqueo interauricular avanzado (BIA) a la existencia de una onda P ≥ 120 ms y bifásica +/- en las derivaciones inferiores (II-III-VF) del electrocardiograma (ECG) de superficie, el cual constituye un factor predictivo significativo del desarrollo de fibrilación auricular. En fecha reciente se han descrito cuatro patrones de BIA atípicos (BIA-At) con base en la morfología y la duración de la onda P, sin conocer si comparten patogenia y características clínicas similares. Método: Estudio observacional, descriptivo y retrospectivo de pacientes, visitados en el Servicio de Cardiología, en ritmo sinusal y con BIA. Las variables analizadas se obtuvieron de la historia clínica informatizada. El análisis de la onda P se efectuó al aumentar el tamaño del electrocardiograma y mediante calipers electrónicos. El análisis estadístico se realizó con SPSS 19.0, con nivel de significación de p < 0.05. Resultados: Se incluyó a 75 pacientes con media de edad de 74.4 ± 11.7 años, con 62.7% de varones. Se compararon los grupos de pacientes con BIA típico (BIA-T) y BIA-At. El primero se relacionó con la existencia de diabetes mellitus (p = 0.001), enfermedad renal crónica estadio ≥ 3 (p = 0.036), bloqueo auriculoventricular (p = 0.006) y una menor fracción de expulsión ventricular media (p = 0.025); no hubo diferencias respecto de la prevalencia de fibrilación auricular/flúter o accidente cerebrovascular. Sólo la diabetes se acompañó de riesgo de ser un BIA-T (OR: 6.4; p = 0.002; IC 95%: 2.0-21.1). Conclusiones: La diabetes mellitus constituye el único factor de riesgo de que un BIA sea típico. Los pacientes con BIA-T y BIA-At presentan similar prevalencia de fibrilación auricular y accidente cerebrovascular, por lo que son objeto de un mismo tratamiento clínico. Objective: It is called advanced interatrial block (IAB) to the existence of a P wave ≥ 120 ms and biphasic ± in the lower leads II-III-VF of the surface electrocardiogram (ECG), which constitutes a significant predictive factor for the development of atrial fibrillation. Recently, four patterns of atypical aIAB (At-IAB) have been described based on the morphology and duration of the P wave, but it's unknown if they share the same pathogenesis and clinical characteristics. Method: An observational, descriptive and retrospective study was performed with patients, visited in cardiology, who have a sinus rhythm and with aIAB. The analyzed variables were obtained from the computerized clinical history. The analysis of the P wave was made by increasing the size of the ECG and by electronic calipers. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS 19.0; level of significance: p < 0.05. Results: A total of 75 patients with an average age of 74.4 ± 11.7 years and with a 62.7% males, were included. It was compared the group of patients with typical aIAB (T-aIAB) and with At-aIAB. The first one was associated with the existence of diabetes mellitus (p = 0.001), chronic kidney disease stage ≥ 3 (p = 0.036), atrioventricular block (p = 0.006) and a lower mean ventricular ejection fraction (p = 0.025); there were no differences regarding the prevalence of atrial fibrillation/flutter or stroke. Only diabetes was associated with the risk of T-aIAB (odds ratio: 6.4; p = 0.002; 95% confidence interval: 2.0-21.1). Conclusions: Diabetes mellitus is the only risk factor for an aIAB to be typical. Patients with T-aIAB and At-aIAB have a similar prevalence of atrial fibrillation and stroke, so they must follow the same clinical management.

Características diferenciales del bloqueo interauricular avanzado típico y atípico / Differential characteristics of the typical and atypical advanced interatrial block

Resumen Objetivo: Se denomina bloqueo interauricular avanzado (BIA) a la existencia de una onda P ≥ 120 ms y bifásica +/- en las derivaciones inferiores (II-III-VF) del electrocardiograma (ECG) de superficie, el cual constituye un factor predictivo significativo del desarrollo de fibrilación auricular. En fecha reciente se han descrito cuatro patrones de BIA atípicos (BIA-At) con base en la morfología y la duración de la onda P, sin conocer si comparten patogenia y características clínicas similares. Método: Estudio observacional, descriptivo y retrospectivo de pacientes, visitados en el Servicio de Cardiología, en ritmo sinusal y con BIA. Las variables analizadas se obtuvieron de la historia clínica informatizada. El análisis de la onda P se efectuó al aumentar el tamaño del electrocardiograma y mediante calipers electrónicos. El análisis estadístico se realizó con SPSS 19.0, con nivel de significación de p < 0.05. Resultados: Se incluyó a 75 pacientes con media de edad de 74.4 ± 11.7 años, con 62.7% de varones. Se compararon los grupos de pacientes con BIA típico (BIA-T) y BIA-At. El primero se relacionó con la existencia de diabetes mellitus (p = 0.001), enfermedad renal crónica estadio ≥ 3 (p = 0.036), bloqueo auriculoventricular (p = 0.006) y una menor fracción de expulsión ventricular media (p = 0.025); no hubo diferencias respecto de la prevalencia de fibrilación auricular/flúter o accidente cerebrovascular. Sólo la diabetes se acompañó de riesgo de ser un BIA-T (OR: 6.4; p = 0.002; IC 95%: 2.0-21.1). Conclusiones: La diabetes mellitus constituye el único factor de riesgo de que un BIA sea típico. Los pacientes con BIA-T y BIA-At presentan similar prevalencia de fibrilación auricular y accidente cerebrovascular, por lo que son objeto de un mismo tratamiento clínico.

Abstract Objective: It is called advanced interatrial block (IAB) to the existence of a P wave ≥ 120 ms and biphasic ± in the lower leads II-III-VF of the surface electrocardiogram (ECG), which constitutes a significant predictive factor for the development of atrial fibrillation. Recently, four patterns of atypical aIAB (At-IAB) have been described based on the morphology and duration of the P wave, but it’s unknown if they share the same pathogenesis and clinical characteristics. Method: An observational, descriptive and retrospective study was performed with patients, visited in cardiology, who have a sinus rhythm and with aIAB. The analyzed variables were obtained from the computerized clinical history. The analysis of the P wave was made by increasing the size of the ECG and by electronic calipers. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS 19.0; level of significance: p < 0.05. Results: A total of 75 patients with an average age of 74.4 ± 11.7 years and with a 62.7% males, were included. It was compared the group of patients with typical aIAB (T-aIAB) and with At-aIAB. The first one was associated with the existence of diabetes mellitus (p = 0.001), chronic kidney disease stage ≥ 3 (p = 0.036), atrioventricular block (p = 0.006) and a lower mean ventricular ejection fraction (p = 0.025); there were no differences regarding the prevalence of atrial fibrillation/flutter or stroke. Only diabetes was associated with the risk of T-aIAB (odds ratio: 6.4; p = 0.002; 95% confidence interval: 2.0-21.1). Conclusions: Diabetes mellitus is the only risk factor for an aIAB to be typical. Patients with T-aIAB and At-aIAB have a similar prevalence of atrial fibrillation and stroke, so they must follow the same clinical management.

[Competence of triage nurses in hospital emergency departments]. / Perfil competencial en los profesionales de triaje de los servicios de urgencias hospitalarios.

OBJECTIVES: To identify associations between sociodemographic characteristics variables and competence levels of triage nurses in hospital emergency departments. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Descriptive, cross-sectional, multicenter study of triage nurses in hospital emergency departments in the southwestern area of Catalonia (Ebre River territory). We used an instrument for evaluating competencies (the COM_VA questionnaire) and recording sociodemographic variables (age, sex, total work experience, emergency department experience, training in critical patient care and triage) and perceived confidence when performing triage. We then analyzed the association between these variables and competency scores. RESULTS: Competency scores on the COM_VA questionnaire were significantly higher in nurses with training in critical patient care (P=.001) and triage (P=0.002) and in those with longer emergency department experience (P<.0001). Perceived confidence when performing triage increased with competency score (P<.0001) and training in critical patient care (P<.0001) and triage (P=.045). CONCLUSION: The competence of triage nurses and their perception of confidence when performing triage increases with emergency department experience and training.

OBJETIVO: Identificar la relación entre las variables sociodemográficas estudiadas y el nivel competencial de los enfermeros que realizan triaje en los servicios de urgencias hospitalarios (SUH). METODO: Estudio descriptivo, transversal, multicéntrico realizado a enfermeros que realizan triaje en los SUH de Terres de l'Ebre. Se analiza la relación entre variables del cuestionario evaluativo de competencias COM_VA©, sociodemográficas (edad, sexo, experiencia laboral total y en SUH, formación en paciente crítico y en triaje, seguridad percibida en la realización del triaje) y habilidades profesionales. RESULTADOS: El nivel competencial (COM_VA©) es mayor en enfermeros con formación en paciente crítico (p = 0,001) y triaje (p = 0,002) y con experiencia en el SUH (p < 0,0001). La seguridad percibida al realizar triaje aumenta con el nivel competencial (p < 0,0001) y con la formación en paciente crítico (p < 0,0001) y triaje (p = 0,045). CONCLUSIONES: La formación y experiencia en el SUH aumentan las competencias del enfermero de triaje y la seguridad percibida al realizarlo.

Perfil competencial en los profesionales de triaje de los servicios de urgencias hospitalarios / Competence of triage nurses in hospital emergency departments

Objetivo. Identificar la relación entre las variables sociodemográficas estudiadas y el nivel competencial de los enfermeros que realizan triaje en los servicios de urgencias hospitalarios (SUH). Método. Estudio descriptivo, transversal, multicéntrico realizado a enfermeros que realizan triaje en los SUH de Terres de l’Ebre. Se analiza la relación entre variables del cuestionario evaluativo de competencias COM_VA©, sociodemográficas (edad, sexo, experiencia laboral total y en SUH, formación en paciente crítico y en triaje, seguridad percibida en la realización del triaje) y habilidades profesionales. Resultados. El nivel competencial (COM_VA©) es mayor en enfermeros con formación en paciente crítico (p = 0,001) y triaje (p = 0,002) y con experiencia en el SUH (p < 0,0001). La seguridad percibida al realizar triaje aumenta con el nivel competencial (p < 0,0001) y con la formación en paciente crítico (p < 0,0001) y triaje (p = 0,045). Conclusiones. La formación y experiencia en el SUH aumentan las competencias del enfermero de triaje y la seguridad percibida al realizarlo (AU)

Objective. To identify associations between sociodemographic characteristics variables and competence levels of triage nurses in hospital emergency departments. Methods. Descriptive, cross-sectional, multicenter study of triage nurses in hospital emergency departments in the southwestern area of Catalonia (Ebre River territory). We used an instrument for evaluating competencies (the COM_VA questionnaire) and recording sociodemographic variables (age, sex, total work experience, emergency department experience, training in critical patient care and triage) and perceived confidence when performing triage. We then analyzed the association between these variables and competency scores. Results. Competency scores on the COM_VA questionnaire were significantly higher in nurses with training in critical patient care (P=.001) and triage (P=0.002) and in those with longer emergency department experience (P<.0001). Perceived confidence when performing triage increased with competency score (P<.0001) and training in critical patient care (P<.0001) and triage (P=.045). Conclusion. The competence of triage nurses and their perception of confidence when performing triage increases with emergency department experience and training (AU)

Valoración de la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud en la enfermedad renal crónica terminal mediante un cuestionario de resultados percibidos por los pacientes / Assessment of health-related quality of life in chronic end-stage renal disease using a questionnaire of patient-perceived outcomes

Objetivos: Valorar la Calidad de Vida Relacionada con la Salud de los pacientes con Enfermedad Renal Crónica Terminal e identificar las diferencias más significativas según el sexo y tratamiento recibido. Material y métodos: Estudio observacional, analítico y transversal; realizado a pacientes en tratamiento con Hemodiálisis de Alto Flujo o Hemodiafiltración 'en línea'. Realizamos estadística descriptiva e inferencial y se consideraron significativos aquellos resultados en que el grado de significación resultó igual o inferior al 5% (p≤0.05). Resultados: Obtuvimos diferencias estadísticamente significativas en: valores de albúmina sérica según la técnica de diálisis y dosis de tratamiento adecuado (Kt/V) según el sexo. En las dimensiones del test de calidad de vida: síntomas/problemas, situación laboral, función sexual, función física, dolor y vitalidad (según sexo). Y según la técnica en: sueño, actitud del personal de diálisis y función física. En el análisis multivariante, las únicas variables clínicas y sociodemográficas que resultaron ser predictores significativos en algunas de las dimensiones de las escalas KDQOL-SF fueron el sexo, el nivel de estudios y la técnica de diálisis. Conclusiones: Las variables sociodemográficas, analíticas, el sexo y técnicas de diálisis influyen sobre la percepción de la calidad de vida de los pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica terminal (AU)

Objective: Evaluate the health-related quality of life for patiens with end-stage renal disease and identify the most significant differences depending on gender and treatment received. Methods and Materials: Observational, analytical and cross-sectional study (second semester 2014) carried out on patiens having high-flux hemodialysis or On-line hemodiafiltration treatment. We did descriptive and inferential statistics and the results with signification grades equal or less than 5% (p<0.05) were regarded as significant. Results: Significant differences in: Albumin values according to the dialysis technique and appropriate treatment doses (Kt/V) depending on gender. Quality of life test dimensions: Symptoms/problems, employment status, sexual function, physical activity, pain and vitality (depending on gender) and according to technique with sleep, staff attitude and physical activity. In the multi-variable analysis; gender, level of education and dialysis technique were the only clinical and socio-demographic variables which ended up being reliable predictors in some of the dimensions of the scales KDQOL-SF. Conclusions: The socio-demographic variables, analytical, gender and dialysis techniques have influence on renal disease patient’s perception (AU)

Septo sigmoideo: ¿una variante de la hipertrofia ventricular o de la miocardiopatía hipertrófica? / Sigmoid septum: A variant of the ventricular hypertrophy or of the hypertrophic cardiomyopathy?

Resumen Objetivo El septo sigmoideo y la miocardiopatía hipertrófica cursan con hipertrofia ventricular izquierda y, aunque parecen ser entidades distintas, muchas veces plantean problemas de diagnóstico diferencial. Este estudio se ha realizado para evaluar la prevalencia y características del septo sigmoideo ecocardiográfico y sus hallazgos diferenciales con respecto a la miocardiopatía hipertrófica. Métodos Estudio descriptivo, observacional y prospectivo. Se estudiaron 1,770 pacientes mediante ecocardiografía. El septo sigmoideo (hipertrofia focal y aislada del septo interventricular basal ≥ 13 mm en hombres y ≥ 2 mm en mujeres, que supera en ≥ 50% al grosor del septo medio) se clasificó en "tipo 1" (≤ 14 mm) y "tipo 2" (≥ 15 mm). Resultados Hubo 59 casos de septo sigmoideo (prevalencia del 3.3%): 26 (1.5%) pacientes con un tipo 1 (50% hombres) y 33 (1.9%) pacientes con un tipo 2 (72.7% hombres); se detectaron 25 (1.4%) casos de miocardiopatía hipertrófica (76% hombres). El grupo con septo sigmoideo tipo 2 se diferenció de esta última en: su mayor edad (73 ± 10.5 años; p < 0.0001), más hipertensión (84.8%; p < 0.0001), menor filtrado glomerular (73.3 ± 21.4 ml/min; p = 0.007), menor alteración de la repolarización (18.2%; p = 0.004) e índice de Cornell (en hombres; 22.2 ± 11 mm; p = 0.041), más disfunción diastólica (75%; p = 0.0089) y en la morfología y localización de la fibrosis ventricular en resonancia magnética. Conclusión Con respecto a la miocardiopatía hipertrófica, los pacientes con septo sigmoideo tipo 2 son de más edad y generalmente hipertensos; por lo demás, a menudo no presentan claras diferencias en sus características clínicas, electrocardiográficas o ecocardiográficas. Por ello, la resonancia cardíaca resulta de gran ayuda en su diagnóstico diferencial.

Abstract Objective Sigmoid septum and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy presenting with left ventricular hypertrophy and, although they appear to be different entities, often involve problems in the differential diagnosis. This study was carried out to assess the prevalence and characteristics of the echocardiographic sigmoid septum and its differential findings regarding hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Methods Descriptive, observational and prospective study. A total of 1,770 patients were studied by echocardiography. Sigmoid septum (focal and isolated hypertrophy of the basal interventricular septum ≥ 13 mm in men and ≥ 12 mm in women, exceeding ≥ 50% of the median septum thickness) was classified as "Type 1" (≤ 14 mm) and "Type 2" (≥ 15 mm). Results There were 59 cases of sigmoid septum (prevalence of 3.3%): 26 (1.5%) patients with type 1 (50% male) and 33 (1.9%) patients with type 2 (72.7% male); there were 25 (1.4%) cases of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (76% male). The group with type 2 sigmoid septum differed from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in: was older (73 ± 10.5 years; P < .0001), with more hypertension (84.8%; P < .0001), lower glomerular filtering (73.3 ± 21.4 ml/min; P = .007), lower repolarization abnormalities (18.2%; P = .004) and Cornell index (in men, 22.2 ± 11 mm; P = .041), more diastolic dysfunction (75%; P = .0089) and in ventricular morphology and fibrosis location in magnetic resonance. Conclusion Regarding the hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, patients with type 2 sigmoid septum are older and generally hypertensive; otherwise, often they have no clear differences in their clinical, electrocardiographic or echocardiographic characteristics. Therefore, cardiac resonance is helpful in the differential diagnosis.

[Sigmoid septum: A variant of the ventricular hypertrophy or of the hypertrophic cardiomyopathy?]. / Septo sigmoideo: ¿una variante de la hipertrofia ventricular o de la miocardiopatía hipertrófica?

OBJECTIVE: Sigmoid septum and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy presenting with left ventricular hypertrophy and, although they appear to be different entities, often involve problems in the differential diagnosis. This study was carried out to assess the prevalence and characteristics of the echocardiographic sigmoid septum and its differential findings regarding hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. METHODS: Descriptive, observational and prospective study. A total of 1,770 patients were studied by echocardiography. Sigmoid septum (focal and isolated hypertrophy of the basal interventricular septum≥13mm in men and ≥12mm in women, exceeding ≥50% of the median septum thickness) was classified as «Type 1¼ (≤14mm) and «Type 2¼ (≥15mm). RESULTS: There were 59 cases of sigmoid septum (prevalence of 3.3%): 26 (1.5%) patients with type 1 (50% male) and 33 (1.9%) patients with type 2 (72.7% male); there were 25 (1.4%) cases of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (76% male). The group with type 2 sigmoid septum differed from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in: was older (73±10.5years; P<.0001), with more hypertension (84.8%; P<.0001), lower glomerular filtering (73.3±21.4ml/min; P=.007), lower repolarization abnormalities (18.2%; P=.004) and Cornell index (in men, 22.2±11mm; P=.041), more diastolic dysfunction (75%; P=.0089) and in ventricular morphology and fibrosis location in magnetic resonance. CONCLUSION: Regarding the hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, patients with type 2 sigmoid septum are older and generally hypertensive; otherwise, often they have no clear differences in their clinical, electrocardiographic or echocardiographic characteristics. Therefore, cardiac resonance is helpful in the differential diagnosis.

[Frequency of kidney failure in cardiologic patients: the need to search]. / Insuficiencia renal en pacientes cardiológicos: buscar para encontrar.

BACKGROUND: Chronic kidney disease is a major health problem since it is associated with a high cardiovascular risk, total morbidity and mortality, increasing prevalence and high cost treatment. AIM: To assess the frequency of chronic kidney disease among patients consulting in a cardiology clinic. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional assessment of 649 patients attended at a cardiology clinic. Demographic, clinical, electrocardiographic, echocardiographic and laboratory variables were registered. Patients were considered to have a kidney failure when their estimated glomerular filtration rate was < 60 ml/min/1.73 m² according to the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) formula. Kidney failure was considered chronic if this alteration lasted ≥ 3 months and hidden when serum creatinine levels were normal. RESULTS: The frequency of kidney failure was 20.8% (28.4% in patients ≥ 65 years old). The mean age of patients with the disease was 71.5 ± 9.1 years and 52% were women. Eighty seven percent were in stage 3, 10% in stage 4 and 3% in stage 5. Among patients with kidney failure, in 114 (84%) it was chronic and in 28%, hidden. The latter was observed almost exclusively in women with creatinine levels of approximately 1 mg/dl. Hypertension (Odds ratio (OR) 4.2), age (OR 1.1), ventricular ejection fraction (OR 0.97) and low hemoglobin (OR 0.735) were the risk factors for kidney failure detected in the multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS: The frequency of kidney failure (chronic or hidden) was high in this group of cardiologic patients. Most patients had a mild to moderate failure and the risk factors were hypertension, age, low ventricular ejection fraction and low hemoglobin levels.

Insuficiencia renal en pacientes cardiológicos: buscar para encontrar / Frequency of kidney failure in cardiologic patients: the need to search

Background: Chronic kidney disease is a major health problem since it is associated with a high cardiovascular risk, total morbidity and mortality, increasing prevalence and high cost treatment. Aim: To assess the frequency of chronic kidney disease among patients consulting in a cardiology clinic. Material and Methods: Cross-sectional assessment of 649 patients attended at a cardiology clinic. Demographic, clinical, electrocardiographic, echocardiographic and laboratory variables were registered. Patients were considered to have a kidney failure when their estimated glomerular filtration rate was < 60 ml/min/1.73 m² according to the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) formula. Kidney failure was considered chronic if this alteration lasted ≥ 3 months and hidden when serum creatinine levels were normal. Results: The frequency of kidney failure was 20.8% (28.4% in patients ≥ 65 years old). The mean age of patients with the disease was 71.5 ± 9.1 years and 52% were women. Eighty seven percent were in stage 3, 10% in stage 4 and 3% in stage 5. Among patients with kidney failure, in 114 (84%) it was chronic and in 28%, hidden. The latter was observed almost exclusively in women with creatinine levels of approximately 1 mg/dl. Hypertension (Odds ratio (OR) 4.2), age (OR 1.1), ventricular ejection fraction (OR 0.97) and low hemoglobin (OR 0.735) were the risk factors for kidney failure detected in the multivariate analysis. Conclusions: The frequency of kidney failure (chronic or hidden) was high in this group of cardiologic patients. Most patients had a mild to moderate failure and the risk factors were hypertension, age, low ventricular ejection fraction and low hemoglobin levels.

Repeated serum creatinine measurement in primary care: Not all patients have chronic renal failure.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence of kidney failure in patients from a primary care centre in a basic healthcare district with laboratory availability allowing serum creatinine measurements. DESIGN: An observational descriptive cross-sectional study. DATA SOURCES: A basic healthcare district serving 23,807 people aged ≥ 18 years. RESULTS: Prevalence of kidney failure among 17,240 patients having at least one laboratory measurement available was 8.5% (mean age 77.6 ± 12.05 years). In 33.2% of such patients an occult kidney failure was found (98.8% were women). Prevalence of chronic kidney failure among 10,011 patients having at least 2 laboratory measurements available (≥ 3 months apart) was 5.5% with mean age being 80.1 ± 10.0 years (most severely affected patients were those aged 75 to 84); 59.7% were men and 76.3% of cases were in stage 3. An occult kidney failure was found in 5.3% of patients with women being 86.2% of them (a glomerular filtration rate<60 ml/min was estimated for plasma creatinine levels of 0.9 mg/dl or higher). CONCLUSIONS: Comparison of present findings to those previously reported demonstrates the need for further studies on the prevalence of overall (chronic and acute) kidney failure in Spain in order to estimate the real scope of the disease. Primary care physicians play a critical role in disease detection, therapy, control and recording (in medical records). MDRD equation is useful and practical to estimate glomerular filtration rate.

Repetición de la medición de creatinina sérica en atención primaria: no todos tienen insuficiencia renal crónica / Repeated serum creatinine measurement in primary care: Not all patients have chronic renal failure

Objetivo: Evaluar la prevalencia de la insuficiencia renal en los pacientes de un centro médico de un área básica de salud que disponen de determinaciones analíticas de creatinina sérica. Diseño: Estudio descriptivo observacional transversal. Fuentes de datos: Área básica de salud con 23.807 usuarios de ≥18 años de edad. Resultados: La prevalencia de la insuficiencia renal entre los 17.240 pacientes que disponían de, al menos, una analítica fue del 8,5%, con una media de edad de 77,6±12,05 años. Un 33,2% de los afectados presentaba una insuficiencia renal oculta, siendo un 98,8% mujeres. La prevalencia de la insuficiencia renal crónica entre los 10.011 pacientes que disponían de al menos 2 analíticas separadas por ≥ de 3 meses fue del 5,5%, siendo su media de edad de 80,1±10,0 años (el grupo más afectado fue el de 75 a 84 años), un 59,7% hombres, y un 76,3% de los casos con estadio 3. Un 5,3% de los afectados presentaban una insuficiencia renal oculta, el 86,2% de estos eran mujeres (se calculaba un filtrado glomerular < 60ml/min ya con niveles de creatinina plasmática de 0,9mg/dl). Conclusiones: La comparación de los resultados actuales con los previos reportados pone de manifiesto la necesidad de realizar nuevos estudios de prevalencia de la insuficiencia renal global, crónica y oculta en España para poder valorar el alcance real de la enfermedad. El médico de atención primaria juega un papel fundamental en la detección, tratamiento, control y registro de la enfermedad (en la historia clínica). La fórmula MDRD resulta útil y práctica para estimar el filtrado glomerular (AU)

Objective: To assess the prevalence of kidney failure in patients from a primary care centre in a basic healthcare district with laboratory availability allowing serum creatinine measurements. Design: An observational descriptive cross-sectional study. Data sources: A basic healthcare district serving 23,807 people aged ≥ 18 years. Results: Prevalence of kidney failure among 17,240 patients having at least one laboratory measurement available was 8.5% (mean age 77.6±12.05 years). In 33.2% of such patients an occult kidney failure was found (98.8% were women). Prevalence of chronic kidney failure among 10,011 patients having at least 2 laboratory measurements available (≥ 3 months apart) was 5.5% with mean age being 80.1±10.0 years (most severely affected patients were those aged 75 to 84); 59.7% were men and 76.3% of cases were in stage 3. An occult kidney failure was found in 5.3% of patients with women being 86.2% of them (a glomerular filtration rate<60ml/min was estimated for plasma creatinine levels of 0.9mg/dl or higher). Conclusions: Comparison of present findings to those previously reported demonstrates the need for further studies on the prevalence of overall (chronic and acute) kidney failure in Spain in order to estimate the real scope of the disease. Primary care physicians play a critical role in disease detection, therapy, control and recording (in medical records). MDRD equation is useful and practical to estimate glomerular filtration rate (AU)

Screening for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm by Means of Transthoracic Echocardiography

Introducción y objetivos La creciente incidencia del aneurisma de la aorta abdominal (AAA), principalmente por el envejecimiento de la población, y su mortalidad del 85-90% en caso de rotura justifican su diagnóstico precoz y un tratamiento reparador electivo. El objetivo principal del presente trabajo es analizar la utilidad de la ecocardiografía transtorácica (ETT) para el estudio de la aorta infrarrenal y el cribado del AAA.MétodosSe estudió a 512 pacientes (309 varones y 203 mujeres) consecutivos evaluados mediante ETT por cualquier causa en el servicio de cardiología.ResultadosEn 25 pacientes (5,1%) se detectó un AAA; la edad mínima al diagnóstico era 55 años; la razón varones:mujeres, 7,3:1 y el diámetro de los aneurismas, 39,5 ± 12,2 mm. Los factores de riesgo relacionados con el AAA fueron ser fumador o ex fumador, la edad y la presencia de soplo femoral. Los resultados de la ETT fueron concordantes con los de la ecografía abdominal también realizada. Todos los pacientes con AAA estudiados mediante coronariografía mostraron también lesiones coronarias significativas.ConclusionesCompletar la ETT convencional con el estudio de la aorta infrarrenal (acceso paraumbilical) resulta útil y válido para el cribado del AAA en los pacientes visitados en cardiología, y se recomienda dicho estudio principalmente en los adultos de de edad ≥ 55 años o con factores de riesgo para sufrir un aneurisma (AU)

Introduction and objectives The increasing incidence of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), mainly due to the aging population, and its mortality of 85-90% in the event of rupture justify opting for early diagnosis and elective treatment to repair it. The main aim of this paper is to analyze the utility of transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in the study of infrarenal aorta and AAA screening.MethodsThe study included 512 patients (309 men and 203 women) consecutively assessed by TTE and, where possible, abdominal ultrasound for any reason in a cardiology department.ResultsAn AAA was detected in 25 patients (5.1%), the minimum age at diagnosis was 55years, the ratio of men to women was 7.3:1 and the mean diameter of the aneurysms was 39.5±12.2mm. Risk factors associated with AAA were to current and former smoking, age, and presence of femoral murmur. The TTE results were equivalent to those of abdominal ultrasound. All patients with AAA studied by coronary angiography showed significant coronary lesions.ConclusionsIt is feasible and useful to complement conventional TTE with the study of the infrarenal aorta for AAA screening in patients visited at the department of cardiology. This study should be performed mainly in patients ≥55years old or with risk factors to develop an AAA (AU)

[Screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm by means of transthoracic echocardiography]. / Screening del aneurisma de aorta abdominal mediante ecocardiografía transtorácica.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: The increasing incidence of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), mainly due to the aging population, and its mortality of 85-90% in the event of rupture justify opting for early diagnosis and elective treatment to repair it. The main aim of this paper is to analyze the utility of transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in the study of infrarenal aorta and AAA screening. METHODS: The study included 512 patients (309 men and 203 women) consecutively assessed by TTE and, where possible, abdominal ultrasound for any reason in a cardiology department. RESULTS: An AAA was detected in 25 patients (5.1%), the minimum age at diagnosis was 55 years, the ratio of men to women was 7.3:1 and the mean diameter of the aneurysms was 39.5 ± 12.2mm. Risk factors associated with AAA were to current and former smoking, age, and presence of femoral murmur. The TTE results were equivalent to those of abdominal ultrasound. All patients with AAA studied by coronary angiography showed significant coronary lesions. CONCLUSIONS: It is feasible and useful to complement conventional TTE with the study of the infrarenal aorta for AAA screening in patients visited at the department of cardiology. This study should be performed mainly in patients ≥55 years old or with risk factors to develop an AAA.

La asertividad en los profesionales de Enfermería / Assertiveness in Nursing professionals

Para poder desarrollar una relación terapéutica satisfactoriaes importante dominar las habilidades sociales en las que laasertividad juega un papel importante.El objetivo del presente estudio fue conocer el grado de asertividaden el ámbito profesional de los diplomados de Enfermeríadel Institut Català de la Salut de la Región SanitariaTerres de l’Ebre.Diseño: se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo ytransversal.Método: se utilizó el cuestionario autocumplimentado de Cabrera,Guil y Lax, modificado, para medir el nivel de asertividadde la profesión de Enfermería.Resultados: se repartieron 365 cuestionarios y se recuperaron219 (60%).El 80,2% (154) de los profesionales tienen características depersona no comprometida. No existen diferencias significativasentre la asertividad y las diferentes variables estudiadas:la edad, el sexo, el estado civil, el lugar de trabajo, el tiempode ejercicio profesional, la condición laboral y el haberrecibido formación para la asertividad. Se observan diferenciassignificativas entre las variables sexo y área de situacionesestresantes, lugar de trabajo y área de colaboración; yentre edad y área de colaboración.Conclusión: el grado de asertividad de los profesionales objetode estudio es bajo, lo que apunta la necesidad de formaciónespecífica que permita mejorarlo

To be able to perform a satisfactory therapeutic relationshipit is important to have mastery of social skills in which assertivenessplays an important role.The objective of this study was to determine the degree ofassertiveness in the professional scope of nursing graduatesfrom the Catalan Institute of Health of the Terres de l’Ebrehealth district.Design: an observational, descriptive and cross-sectionalstudy was carried out.Method: the modified, self-administered Cabrera, Guil andLax questionnaire was used to measure the level of assertivenessin the nursing profession.Results: 365 questionnaires were distributed, of which 219(60%) were recovered.80,2% (154) of the professionals had the characteristics ofpersons with no commitments. There were no significantdifferences between assertiveness and the different variablesstudied: age, sex, marital status, place of work, time of professionalpractice, work conditions, and having received trainingon assertiveness. Significant differences were observed betweenthe variables of sex and the area of stressing situations,place of work and area of collaboration, and also betweenage and area of collaboration.Conclusion: the degree of assertiveness of professionalsunder study was low, which points towards a need for specific training to help improve such assertiveness (AU)