Satisfaction levels and associated influencing factors among inpatients and outpatients with breast cancer at a tertiary health facility in Ghana.

Objectives: To uncover variables linked to breast cancer patient satisfaction in order to improve policy choices and actions for breast cancer care in Ghana. Design: We employed a cross-sectional design using a quantitative approach. Setting: The Radiotherapy, Oncology and Surgery Departments of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra. Participants: Inpatient and outpatient breast cancer patients. Main outcome measures: The level of inpatient and outpatient satisfaction was measured using descriptive and inferential statistical analyses. The Shapiro-Wilk test was employed to assess normality, while the Heckman selection model assessed significance with outcomes of interest. Results: A total of 636 participants, with a mean age of 52.64±14.07 years, were recruited. The measured inpatient and outpatient levels of satisfaction out of 100 were 74.06±7.41 and 49.99±1.00 respectively, while the self-reported satisfaction levels out of 5 were 4.22±0.63 and 4.11±0.85 respectively. The level of inpatient satisfaction was significantly influenced by age, marital status, income level, and number of previous facilities visited (p<0.05). Outpatient satisfaction level was significantly associated with place of residence and income level (p<0.05). Conclusions: The study offers insight into the satisfaction levels of breast cancer patients receiving inpatient and outpatient services at the largest tertiary referral centre and teaching hospital in Ghana, as well as the factors influencing attendance and satisfaction levels. Understanding and improving breast cancer patients' levels of satisfaction is a way that providers can safeguard their emotional well-being. Improvement in patient satisfaction at our institution among outpatients is an area for future growth. Funding: Gardner-Holt Women's Health Grant program, Centre for Global Surgery 2021.

Sociodemographic Factors Associated with the Satisfaction Level of Peruvian Dental Students with Virtual Classes During the Covid-19 Pandemic: A Prospective Bicentric Study.

Background: The pandemic caused by Covid-19 impacted all areas of social, economic and educational activity. When there is a high risk of spreading highly infectious diseases, education is usually the first service to be suspended. The objective was to evaluate the sociodemographic factors associated with the satisfaction level of Peruvian dental students with virtual classes during the Covid-19 pandemic. Methods: This observational, cross-sectional, analytical study evaluated 237 dental students from the capital city and one Peruvian province using a validated 13-item questionnaire to measure the level of satisfaction with virtual classes. Pearson's chi-square test and a logit model were used to evaluate the associated factors such as age group, sex, marital status, monthly family income, area of residence, place of origin, occupation and computer use, considering a significance level of p<0.05. Results: Of all students, 50.6%, 40.1% and 9.3% presented a good, average and poor level of satisfaction, respectively, with the virtual classes received. In addition, those with a monthly family income of less than 500 US dollars were 3.15 times more likely to have poor satisfaction compared to those with a monthly family income of more than 1000 US dollars (AOR = 3.15; 95% CI: 1.23-8.05). The rest of the variables evaluated were not considered influential factors in the levels of satisfaction with the virtual classes received. Conclusión: Of all students, 50.6% and 9.3% reported good and poor satisfaction with virtual classes during the COVID-19 pandemic, respectively. Monthly family income of less than 500 US dollars was an influential factor. In addition, the variables age group, sex, marital status, area of residence, place of origin, occupation and computer use were not found to be influential factors.

Patients' Satisfaction With Medication Delivery Pharmacy Services in a Tertiary Hospital in Asir, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: Pharmaceutical care plays a crucial role in optimizing medication administration and improving patient health outcomes. However, medication adherence remains a challenge, with a significant percentage of patients discontinuing their medications. Value-added services (VASs), such as medication delivery, have been introduced to enhance pharmacy services and medication adherence. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate satisfaction with a new medication delivery service at an Armed Forces Hospital outpatient pharmacy in Saudi Arabia and identify factors impacting utilization. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey assessed patient satisfaction with a new pharmacy delivery service between January 2023 and March 2023. The target population consisted of adult patients who had used the pharmacy delivery service for at least one month. The survey contained 23 Likert scale questions assessing satisfaction across three domains: delivery process/personnel, medication quality, and pharmacist adherence to best practices. RESULTS: A total of 110 patients responded to the survey, 383 invited patients; the mean age was 51.2 ± 15.3, and most were male 92 (83.6%), married 97 (88.2%), and living in urban areas 63 (57.3%). The overall satisfaction rate was 97 (88.1%), with 67 (60.9%) reporting satisfaction with the medication delivery service. On the delivery process/personnel items, over half strongly agreed that the delivery person called before arriving 59 (53.6%), medications were received on time 58 (51.8%), and the delivery person was polite 64 (58.2%). Most strongly agreed that the service helped with adherence 70 (63.6%) and saved travel costs 72 (65.5%) for medication-quality items. Most also strongly agreed that medications were properly packaged 65 (59.1%) and labeled 71 (64.5%). Regarding pharmacist practices, approximately 56 (50.9%) strongly agreed that the pharmacist provided education materials, inquired about adherence 49 (44.5%), and was respectful 55 (50%). Bivariate analyses found no significant associations between satisfaction and age, gender, residence, education, marital status, income, or disease (all p > 0.05). Satisfaction remained uniformly high across subgroups. CONCLUSION: The medication delivery service demonstrated excellent patient reception regardless of its characteristics. Overall satisfaction with these services was high. There was no association between sociodemographic characteristics and the level of satisfaction. Continued monitoring and refinement could maximize the quality of pharmaceutical care afforded through innovative models supporting medication adherence.

Job satisfaction among nurses working in hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKGROUND: Job satisfaction is one of the key factors related to the work efficiency of nursing staff. Its level may affect the degree of the professional's commitment to work and effectiveness in performing their professional tasks. For a modern organisation, job satisfaction is associated with a number of benefits for both the employee and the employer. Job satisfaction of nurses is extremely important due to their professional tasks being related to the care of patients. Nurses with low levels of job satisfaction may have less capabilities to provide high quality care and thus maintain a high level of patient satisfaction. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional observational study which included 302 people practising the profession of a nurse and employed in a hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. The level of job satisfaction was assessed using the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (MSQ), which was preceded by questions characterising the research group. The questionnaire was delivered to the respondents in electronic form. RESULTS: The respondents obtained an average result in terms of the level of job satisfaction (M±SD 58.53±11.42). The highest rated area was the chance to do something good for other people (M±SD 3.85±0.87), and the lowest rated areas included: the method of work evaluation and the remuneration system (M±SD 2.24±0.74), the chances for advancement (M±SD 2.38±0.94) and the chance to take up senior positions (M±SD 2.39±0.88) as well as the number of tasks to be performed during the working day (M±SD 2.40±0.86). CONCLUSIONS: In this study, average values of the level of job satisfaction were obtained. A higher level of job satisfaction was shown by those employed in a non-infectious hospital and those with higher monthly earnings. Employers' policy should focus on improving working conditions, the remuneration system and promotion opportunities. Med Pr Work Health Saf. 2023;74(4):271-8.

Assessment of Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients Receiving Corticobasal Dental Implants.

Background: Among various treatment modalities for tooth replacement, dental implants are considered the best one. This study assessed the effects of smoking, periodontitis, and diabetes on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in patients receiving corticobasal dental implants. Materials and Methods: One hundred twenty patients of either gender who received corticobasal dental implants were enrolled. All were subjected to Oral Health Impact Profile-20 (OHIP-20) for dental implant patients (OHRQoL questionnaire). The patient satisfaction level was measured on a scale with points ranging from 0 to 5. The value 0 indicates no satisfaction, whereas the value 5 shows highly satisfied. Results: Of 120 patients, males were 70 and females were 50. The overall satisfaction level was 4.92, articulation speech was 4.12, implants were 4.80, and construction was 4.88. The overall satisfaction, articulation speech, implants, and construction values in patients with and without diabetes were 4.90 vs 4.93, 4.56 vs 4.86, 4.76 vs 4.92, and 4.94 vs 4.83, respectively. The overall satisfaction, articulation speech, implants, and construction values in patients with and without smoking were 4.83 vs 4.91, 4.52 vs 4.88, 4.70 vs 4.82, and 4.12 vs 4.84, respectively. The overall satisfaction, articulation speech, implants, and construction values in patients with and without periodontitis were 4.72 vs 4.96, 4.52 vs 4.88, 4.73 vs 4.98, and 4.81 vs 4.95, respectively. The overall satisfaction, articulation speech, implants, and construction values in patients with one to three risk factors and control were 4.85 vs 4.96, 4.82 vs 4.94, 4.88 vs 4.97, and 4.76 vs 4.86, respectively. There was a significant difference in pain, infections and/or swelling, sleeping problems, problems with self-confidence, taste, chewing discomfort and/or difficulties, and influence on food choice before and after in patients treated with corticobasal dental implants (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The satisfaction level is higher after obtaining corticobasal dental implants in patients with diabetes, smoking, and periodontitis as compared to control. Thus, corticobasal dental implants may be considered alternate treatment options for these patients.

Corrigendum: Emerging work environments in the pandemic era: a gendered approach to work-life balance programs.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fsoc.2023.1120288.].

Revealing the relation between job satisfaction and workload: a cross-sectional study in the emergency department.

Job satisfaction is recognized as an essential parameter that affects the performance and quality of medical services provided by emergency department (ED) health professionals. However, little is known about the status of job satisfaction related to workload among ED staff in Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to explore the current level of job satisfaction and to analyze the relationship between job satisfaction and the personal and professional characteristics of ED staff. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among ED staff, including various job positions, to assess job satisfaction. An online questionnaire was sent electronically to all ED staff. The structured online questionnaire collected information on sociodemographic factors, workload-related factors, and job satisfaction. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 26. Results: The questionnaire used to assess job satisfaction levels demonstrated high internal consistency and reliability using Cronbach's α (0.85). Completed responses were obtained from 103 ED staff members; 58.25% were males, and most of the participants in the survey were either nurse (48.54%) or physicians (28.16%). Most of the respondents (61.16%) had a satisfaction score that was higher than half of the possible attainable score and showed a high level of satisfaction, although 38.84% fell below half of the possible attainable score on the satisfaction parameter and showed a lower level of satisfaction. Conclusion: It may be concluded that ED staff have a higher level of job satisfaction related to workload factors. The level of satisfaction did not change for different age groups, genders, levels of education, levels of experience, or jobs.

Emerging work environments in the pandemic era: a gendered approach to work-life balance programs.

As the coronavirus pandemic affects virtually every sector of the economy, this ongoing review examines the effects of remote working on women's job performance-including hypotheses about serious activities and how they may balance work and family. In recent years, psychometric testing has become increasingly popular with organizations worldwide, and they are looking at this method to better understand how women achieve balance in their lives. The aim of this work is to investigate how different aspects of psychometrics and factors relating to work-life balance influence women's satisfaction levels. An exploratory factor assessment (EFA) and a confirmatory factor assessment (CFA) using a seven-point Likert scale were performed on data collected from 385 selected female IT workers whose satisfaction levels toward psychometric assessments in their organization were examined. The current study uses EFAs and CFAs to develop and identify the key factors in women's work-life balance. The results also showed that three significant variables accounted for 74% of the variance: 26% from work and family, 24% from personal factors, and 24% from loving their job.

Estudio correlacional de complicaciones técnicas, biológicas, estéticas y nivel de satisfacción en tratamientos realizados en la Cátedra de Prótesis de Coronas y Puentes II de la Facultad de Odontología de la Universidad Nacional de Asunción

El objetivofue determinar la asociación correlacional que pudiera presentarse entre las complicaciones técnicas, biológicas y estéticas y el nivel de satisfacción de los tratamientos realizados en la Cátedra de Prótesis de Coronas y Puentes II de la Facultad de Odontología de la UNA en el 2019. Este fue un estudio observacional descriptivo, analítico, de corte transverso. Se incluyeron pacientes que recibieron tratamientos del 2016 al 2018. Acudieron 59 pacientes para la evaluación clínica y aplicación del cuestionario. Se analizaron los datos según número de tratamientos encontrados en cada sujeto, por lo que se calcularon los resultados según 119 tratamientos. Las complicaciones biológicas pulpares fueron la sensibilidad o molestia al frio o al calor en los pilares en un 20.1%. Se encontró asociación muy significativa de las complicaciones biológicas pulpares (p>001) con estado civil, complicaciones biológicas periodontales, complicaciones estéticas cervicales. Las complicaciones biológicas periodontales fueron en mayor frecuencia la gingivitis alrededor de la restauración en un 40,4%. El nivel de satisfacción con el tratamiento recibido se presentó favorable en un 89,1% y asociación muy significativa (p>001) con grado de instrucción y significativa (p>005) con estado civil.Se encontró asociación muy significativa de las complicaciones estéticas cervicales, las complicaciones estéticas de forma y significativa de las complicaciones biológicas periodontales con el nivel de satisfacción.

The objective was to determine the correlational association that could occur between technical, biological and esthetic complications and level of satisfaction in the treatments performed in the Department of Crown and Bridge Prosthodontics II of the Faculty of Dentistry of the National University of Asuncion in 2019. This was a descriptive, analytical, cross-sectional, observational study. Patients who received treatments from 2016 to 2018 were included. Fifty-nine patients attended for clinical evaluation and application of the questionnaire. The data were analyzed according to the number of treatments found in each subject, by which the results were calculated according to 119 treatments. Pulpal biological complications were sensitivity or discomfort to cold or heat in 20.1% of the abutments. A highly significant association was found between pulpal biological complications (p>001) and marital status, periodontal biological complications and cervical esthetic complications. The most frequent periodontal biological complications were gingivitis around the restoration (40.4%). The level of satisfaction with the treatment received was favorable in 89.1% and there was a very significant association (p>001) with educational level and significant (p>005) with marital status. A highly significant association was found between cervical esthetic complications, esthetic complications of shape and periodontal biological complications and the level of satisfaction.

Assessment of Role of Complete Dentures in Improving the Chewing Efficiency of Edentulous Patients.

Introduction: The loss of teeth leads to difficulty in chewing and smiling and an unesthetic appearance. The present study assessed the role of complete dentures in improving the chewing efficiency of edentulous patients. Materials and Methods: Eighty-two complete denture wearers of age group 40-75 years of both genders were enrolled in the study. The chewing efficiency of denture was determined by VMM machine. Patients were provided with the self- administered questionnaire and were advised to answer. Results: Out of 82 patients, there were 42 (51.2%) males and 40 (48.8%) females. The mean ± SD particle size was found to be 0.12 ± 0.07 mm in males and 0.13 ± 0.06 mm in females. A non-significant difference was observed (P > 0.05). The mean ± SD satisfaction level value was 1.28 ± 0.07. Conclusion: There was improved chewing efficiency with the complete denture, and the patient satisfaction level was high among patients.

Evaluating patient and medical staff satisfaction from doctor-patient communication.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to investigate and compare the views of doctors, nursing staff and hospitalized patients on the level of information they provide and receive respectively in public hospitals, focusing on the factors that affect their communication. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The study used a cross-sectional survey with a sample of 426 participants from two general hospitals in Greece-Pella and KAT Attica. Data were collected through a questionnaire in March-May 2020 and was analyzed with mean comparisons and correlations. FINDINGS: The results showed discrepancy in the satisfaction rate, with 67.3% satisfied patients from doctors' communication vs. 83.7% satisfied doctors. Improvements in hospital staff - patient communication are required especially on alternative therapies' discussion and time spent on communication. All respondents agreed that staff shortage is a deterrent factor for effective communication. Seamless for all respondents' groups, the factors that affect the communication satisfaction level are the duration of communication, time allowed for expressing questions and interest in patients' personal situation. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: Strengthening the communication skills of medical staff and providing clear guidelines on when and how to inform patients are essential. ORIGINALITY/VALUE: This study contributes to the growing body of research on doctor-patient communication. Its originality lies on the fact that communication satisfaction level was examined simultaneously for doctors, nurses and patients. The study provides additional evidence supporting the link among satisfaction and duration of communication and personalized relationship. The study's findings are important in the training of medical staff and the management of patients' expectations.

Perception and Satisfaction of Patients' Relatives Regarding Emergency Medical Service Response Times: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Purpose: Delays in emergency medical service (EMS) directly affect life-threatening emergencies. Delays also indirectly affect the perception and satisfaction of patients and their relatives, which are important qualitative EMS indicators. Patients and Methods: For this cross-sectional study, data was collected from May 1 to July 31, 2021, through questionnaires developed by the authors. The study sample consisted of relatives of EMS patients. The primary objective was the perceived EMS response time, which was compared to the actual EMS response time. The secondary objective was the relatives' perceptions and feelings regarding the waiting time. Results: During study period, the sample was 165 relatives of patients managed by EMS. The mean perceived EMS response time of 18.28 ± 8.10 min was significantly longer than the mean actual response time of 14.44 ± 4.86 min (p < 0.001). The positive correlation between the perceived and actual times was low but statistically significant (p < 0.001) with a correlation coefficient of 0.315 (95% CI 0.170-0.446). The overall satisfaction level was high (, standard deviation 0.63). The mean perceived EMS response time compares with the high-to-highest satisfaction levels of relatives was significantly lower than the mean perceived EMS response time compares with the lowest-to-middle satisfaction levels of relatives (17.83 ± 8.05 and 22.50 ± 7.47 min, respectively; p = 0.028). Conclusion: The perceived EMS response time was longer than the actual response time, with a low correlation. However, the relatives' overall satisfaction level was high.

Does team-based learning affect test scores of the basic medical sciences students in a modular curriculum?

Objectives: The aim of the study was to determine the effectiveness of team-based learning (TBL) sessions as a learning tool and to assess the satisfaction level of medical students towards TBL in modular curriculum. Methods: Using the quasi-experimental study design, TBL sessions were conducted, involving students of 1st and 2nd year of Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery. The TBL infrastructure comprised of pre-class preparation, in-class individual readiness assurance pre-test and post-test, before and after group discussion, respectively. The responses of the students regarding TBL satisfaction were recorded through a structured questionnaire (5-point Likert-type scale) while Wilcoxon signed rank test was applied to measure the effectiveness of TBL sessions. Results: Out of 192 students, 85% agreed or strongly agreed that TBL helped them think critically, identify their knowledge gaps, boosted their confidence, and motivated them in group participation. Significantly better post-test scores were found in all modules where TBL was used as a teaching tool (Z range = -5.33 to -11.81, P < 0.00). Conclusion: TBL increases the post-test score in majority of the students, indicating improved learning process. It not only keeps students engaged throughout the learning process but incites critical thinking, problem solving skills, and confidence. Further studies are required to see long-term benefit of TBL in students' learning.

Nivel de satisfacción y factores sociodemográficos de usuarios atendidos en los servicios forenses de la Unidad Médico Legal II Amazonas / Level of satisfaction and sociodemographic factors of users attended in the forensic services of the Medical Legal Unit II Amazonas

Resumen Introducción: La insatisfacción en la atención de los servicios forenses públicos, representa una preocupación de las entidades estatales hacia la atención brindada a los usuarios, siendo necesario su identificación. La investigación determino la relación entre el nivel de satisfacción y factores sociodemográficos de usuarios atendidos en la Unidad Médico Legal II Amazonas. Materiales y métodos: Estudio descriptivo-correlacional, de enfoque cuantitativo y diseño no experimental, en una muestra de 126 usuarios, seleccionados por muestreo probabilístico aleatorio estratificado, se aplicó un cuestionario mediante encuesta, validado por juicio de expertos (V de Alkin, 94.38) y confiabilidad (alfa de Cronbach, 0.824). Resultados: Mediante prueba Chi-cuadrado de Pearson, no se encontró relación entre la variable nivel de satisfacción y características sociodemográficas (p>0.05); al evaluarse por servicios, se encontró en mesa de partes satisfacción indiferente (44.4%) e insatisfacción (27%), en Medicina legal, satisfacción (35%) e indiferente (55%), en Odontología forense, tuvo satisfacción (84.1%) y el servicio de Psicología forense satisfacción (78.6%). Conclusiones: El nivel de satisfacción y los factores sociodemográficos no se relacionan, es decir las variables se disocian; en general los usuarios atendidos mostraron satisfacción (56.6%), insatisfacción (11%) y satisfacción indiferente (32.6%), por ello se requieren de planes de mejora para la atención al usuario.

Abstract Introduction: The dissatisfaction of the attention of the public forensic services, represent a concern of the state entities towards the attention of the users, being necessary their identification. The research determined the relationship between the level of satisfaction and sociodemographic factors of users attended in the Medical Legal Unit II Amazonas. Materials and methods: Descriptive-correlational study, with a quantitative approach and non-experimental design, in a sample of 126 users, selected by stratified random probability sampling, a questionnaire was applied by means of a survey, validated by expert judgment (V de Alkin, 94.38) and reliability (Cronbach's alpha, 0.824). Results: Using Pearson's Chi-square test, no relationship was found between the level of satisfaction variable and sociodemographic characteristics (p> 0.05); When evaluated by services, indifferent satisfaction (44.4%) and dissatisfaction (27%) were found at the party table, in Legal Medicine, satisfaction (35%) and indifferent (55%), in Forensic Dentistry, there was satisfaction (84.1%) and the forensic psychology service satisfaction (78.6%). Conclusions: The level of satisfaction and the sociodemographic factors are not related, that is, the variables are dissociated; In general, the users attended showed satisfaction (56.6%), dissatisfaction (11%) and indifferent satisfaction (32.6%), for this reason improvement plans are required for user service.

Autonomy or Working Conditions?-Research on Heterogeneity and Influencing Mechanism of Self-Employment on Job Satisfaction in China.

The development of globalization and information technology has been promoting informal work rapidly. In this process, self-employment is gradually becoming an important employment approach. As two of the key variables, self-employment laborers' work autonomy and work conditions are largely discussed as the potential determinants of their work satisfaction. Which of these two factors is actually influencing labors' satisfaction level? So far, relevant studies are insufficient to respond to this question, especially in developing countries. This study investigates the influence of work autonomy and working conditions on self-employed workers' job satisfaction in China. China Labor-force Dynamics Survey data is used to examine the impact of self-employment on workers' job satisfaction and the influence mechanism of work autonomy and working conditions. Propensity score matching and instrumental variable methods were applied to avoid sample selection bias and endogeneity. We found that self-employment has a significant negative effect on job satisfaction; poor working conditions are responsible for self-employed workers' lower satisfaction level, and self-employment behavior impacts job satisfaction differently in terms of the type and gender of self-employed workers. Therefore, stronger social security and better working conditions for the self-employed should be provided.

Assessment of Level of Patient Satisfaction with Day-Care Surgery: An Observational Study.

To assess the level of patient satisfaction with day-care surgery at a tertiary care centre and to find out the different determinants that influence the patient satisfaction. Observational study; Tertiary care hospital in Western India; Patients undergoing Day-care surgery at Dept of ENT from Feb 2018 to Aug 2018; All patients who underwent day-care surgery were given a questionnaire to determine level of satisfaction. On analysis of data according to questions the average score was in the range of 3.5 to 4.22 out of a maximum score of 5. On analysis of data according to domains of patient care the scores ranged from 3.61 to 4.19. Although patients were generally satisfied with the level of care being provided to them there is still scope of improvement.

Factors influencing the satisfaction level of college students in China: Literature analysis based on grounded theory.

Student satisfaction is an important index for evaluating the quality of higher education and the competitiveness of colleges in China, and most of the current studies on the factors influencing the satisfaction level of colleges students adopt quantitative research methods. A qualitative analysis of 48 literatures on college students' satisfaction was conducted using NVivo12 in this study. We found that the influencing factors of college students' satisfaction in China are composed of seven dimensions: school reputation, school environment, personal improvement, organizational management, logistical support, teaching quality, and charges and subsidies. Among them, teaching quality, school environment, organizational management, and logistical support are the core categories. Furthermore, school reputation, school environment, organizational management, logistical support, teaching quality, and charges and subsidies are external factors, while personal improvement is an internal factor. To improve the satisfaction level of college students, the two dimensions of external and internal factors must be taken into account, with external factors being given more attention. This study not only expands the scope of scenarios to which the grounded theory has been applied, but also provides a reference for other scholars to conduct more in-depth empirical studies on college students' satisfaction in Chinese colleges.

The impact of COVID-19 outbreak and perceptions of people towards household waste management chain in Nepal.

The spread of COVID-19 is posing significant challenges to the household (HH) waste management sectors putting waste personnel and concerned bodies under massive pressure. The chain of collection, segregation, recycling, and disposal of household generated wastes is interrupted. This study aimed to assess how the household waste management chain was disrupted by novel coronavirus in Nepal and find the perception of the people towards the existing household waste management system (HHWMS). A descriptive online survey was carried out among 512 people using a cross-sectional research design and data was collected through a self-administered questionnaire method. Both descriptive, as well as inferential tests, were conducted using SPSS software. The finding of this study showed that 62.3% of respondents were not satisfied with the present HHWMS. Furthermore, there was a significant association of the satisfaction level of household waste management during coronavirus outbreak with gender, waste volume change in lockdown, PPE for waste collectors, and education on waste handling techniques provided by the government sector at 5% level of significance (p < 0.05). Proper HH waste management has become a challenge, and to address this some innovative works such as awareness programs for people, health and hygiene related support to waste workers, and effective policy formulation and implementation should be done by the Government of Nepal.

Perception of virtual clinics among Saudi adults with type 1 diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: We aimed to assess patient perception toward the rapid implementation of virtual phone clinics among Saudi adult patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. METHODS: This cross-sectional, web-based study included Saudi adult patients with T1DM who attended at least one virtual phone visit with the diabetes clinic at King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, between August 1 and December 31, 2020. Patients anonymously answered a Google form-created Arabic questionnaire. Information about patient characteristics, outcome, and perception of the virtual phone visit were obtained. Data were presented using descriptive statistics, chi-square, one-way ANOVA, independent t-, and Welch's t-tests. RESULTS: The questionnaire was sent to 281 patients, of whom 201 completed it. 59.2% patients were satisfied with their overall virtual phone clinic experience, and 75.6% preferred to continue attending the virtual phone clinics in the future. The average perception value of patients toward virtual phone clinics was 67.76 ± 19.9, suggesting good perception among the majority. Negative or neutral views of current health, asking to be physically seen, and missing a virtual appointment were associated with significantly lower average patient perception value (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Most Saudi patients with T1DM have adapted to virtual phone consultations, exhibiting good satisfaction and perception, and high preference to continue using this system in the future. The utilization of the service to assist patients with diabetes is highly encouraged, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Strategies need to be developed to further enhance the patient experience.

Cochlear implants in adults with partial deafness: subjective benefits but associated psychological distress.

PURPOSE: The present study investigated adults with partial deafness (PD) and asked them to rate the benefits of their cochlear implant (CI), their general level of satisfaction with it, and their level of psychological distress. Of particular interest was the role of gender. METHODS: The study comprised 71 participants (41 females) with PD who had been provided with a CI. The Nijmegen Cochlear Implant Questionnaire (NCIQ) was used to assess the benefits of their CI. Satisfaction with their CI was measured using a visual analog scale. The severity of mental distress was assessed with the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28). RESULTS: On various NCIQ scales, the average benefits of a CI were rated at 66%. Females gave a lower rating than males. The mental distress experienced by the group was significantly higher than in the general population. Females had more severe symptoms of anxiety and insomnia than males. There was a significant relationship between psychological distress and CI benefit, but only in females. Besides general distress, the most affected spheres were related to psychosocial functioning-"self-esteem", "activity limitation", and "social interaction". Contrary to expectations, there was no relationship between mental distress and CI satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: The perceived benefits of a CI in subjects with PD relate mostly to the level of mental distress, although gender is an important factor. For females, their emotional state affects how beneficial their CI is perceived. Due to the higher levels of mental distress, females tend to need more psychological intervention and support.