RESUMEN
OBJECTIVES: We examined the correlation between the Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) and the Reflux Finding Score (RFS) to determine the laryngeal signs and symptoms that were most significantly correlated. METHODS: Forty randomly selected patients were included in the study. A retrospective chart review was performed for patients who fit the inclusion criteria. Videostroboscopic samples for the study group were reviewed and RFS-rated by 6 experienced raters on 2 different occasions to evaluate the interrater and intrarater reliability. The RSI and the RFS were statistically compared regarding both the total scores and the individual parameters. RESULTS: The RFS ranged from 0 to 20, and the RSI varied from 14 to 38. There was a high agreement between the raters' scores, demonstrating high interrater and intrarater reliability for RFS. Additionally, the RSI and RFS were highly correlated (p < .0001). Hoarseness was highly correlated with vocal fold edema and thick laryngeal mucus (p < .01), and excessive throat clearing correlated significantly with thick endolaryngeal mucus (p < .01). CONCLUSIONS: The study demonstrates a highly significant correlation between the RFS and the RSI.
Asunto(s)
Reflujo Gastroesofágico/diagnóstico , Reflujo Gastroesofágico/fisiopatología , Adulto , Femenino , Reflujo Gastroesofágico/epidemiología , Humanos , Laringoscopía/métodos , Masculino , Estudios Retrospectivos , Índice de Severidad de la Enfermedad , Pliegues Vocales/patología , Pliegues Vocales/fisiopatología , Trastornos de la Voz/epidemiología , Trastornos de la Voz/patología , Trastornos de la Voz/fisiopatologíaRESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of long work shifts and turnout gear, including the self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) on firefighters' postural stability. METHODS: Sixteen firefighters were assessed using a portable forceplate system at the fire station. Postural sway parameters were recorded at the beginning of the work shift and repeated until the work shift ended. RESULTS: Task had the greatest impact on postural stability for all sway parameters. Turnout gear, with and without SCBA, improved postural stability. Postural stability decreased as firefighters spent more time on duty. CONCLUSIONS: Prolonged work shifts may be an important contributor to the high prevalence of slips and falls among firefighters. In all, the results indicate that many aspects of the firefighters' job may adversely impact their postural stability and potentially increase the risk of falling.
