RESUMO
The COVID-19 pandemic refocused scientists the world over to produce technologies that will be able to prevent the spread of such diseases in the future. One area that deservedly receives much attention is the disinfection of health facilities like hospitals, public areas like bathrooms and train stations, and cleaning areas in the food industry. Microorganisms and viruses can attach to and survive on surfaces for a long time in most cases, increasing the risk for infection. One of the most attractive disinfection methods is paints and coatings containing nanoparticles that act as photocatalysts. Of these, titanium dioxide is appealing due to its low cost and photoreactivity. However, on its own, it can only be activated under high-energy UV light due to the high band gap and fast recombination of photogenerated species. The ideal material or coating should be activated under artificial light conditions to impact indoor areas, especially considering wall paints or frequent-touch areas like door handles and elevator buttons. By introducing dopants to TiO2 NPs, the bandgap can be lowered to a state of visible-light photocatalysis occurring. Naturally, many researchers are exploring this property now. This review article highlights the most recent advancements and research on visible-light activation of TiO2-doped NPs in coatings and paints. The progress in fighting air pollution and personal protective equipment is also briefly discussed. Graphical Abstract: Indoor visible-light photocatalytic activation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) over TiO2 nanoparticles in paint to kill bacteria and coat frequently touched surfaces in the medical and food industries.
RESUMO
AIM: This study explored and described nurses' experiences of factors that influenced their professional dignity in private hospitals in South Africa. BACKGROUND: Patients' dignity is a nursing professional value in high regard. Nurses' dignity, in particular nurses' professional dignity, has not been valued equally. Disrespect for nurses' professional dignity impacts on nurses' motivation to provide nursing care to their full potential. METHODS: Descriptive phenomenological research was conducted. Eleven professional nurses were interviewed at two private hospitals in the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State of South Africa. FINDINGS: The participants were conscious of their 'professional standing due to own and others' percipience'. Their professional dignity was influenced by experiences such as perceiving one's own professional dignity; having contradictory experiences; being proud to be a professional nurse; receiving support, appreciation and respect; providing care in complex situations; performing as a professional nurse; valuing patient well-being; and being humiliated by others. CONCLUSION: Preserving nurses' professional dignity is crucial and should be acknowledged and encouraged by managers, health team members and nurses. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING/HEALTH POLICY: The need for preserving nurses' professional dignity necessitates the incorporation of professional dignity strategies in healthcare, nursing and education policies.
