bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of peer mentoring on motivation and self-regulated learning in medical students during transition
Authors: Najafinejad Soroush , Tabatabaei Soroor , Maghbouli Nastaran , Ahmadi Negar Sadat
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Self-regulated learning (SRL) is a critical skill for medical students to reach their learning goals in the bedside clinical rotations. This study was performed with the aim of comparing SRL and motivation of 4th year medical students who are in their educational transition between students with mentors and those without mentors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study was cross-sectional. A total of 196 medical students were invited to complete a form consisting the motivation and SRL questionnaire through Google form during their 1st year of clinical clerkship, while some of them had participated in the mentoring program beforehand. data correlation and regression analysis were employed.

RESULTS:

Comparing SRL and motivational beliefs scores between students with mentors and without mentors indicated that motivational beliefs mean score in students with mentors (87.5 ± 8.44) was significantly higher compared to the others (83.49 ± 7.36) (P = 0.005). Among SRL subscales, planning and examination stress were significantly different between two groups with higher scores for mentees (P = 0.033 and 0.021). Having a mentor predicted motivational beliefs with OR = 7.974 (1.391–45.719) and P = 0.020.

CONCLUSION:

Considering a significant correlation between mentor possession and the scale of motivation beliefs, future longitudinal and interventional research besides the customized mentoring program is required to understand the role of mentoring programs on SRL as a cause-and-effect relationship to recommend the peer mentoring program to enhance SRL skills in the medical students especially during their transition to the new clinical environment.
Training pain management to nursing students
Authors: Shahmoradi Leila , Mehrabanfar Mahtab , Meibodi Seid Ali Emami , Navab Elham , Ardakani Hossein Majedi , Yazdani Azita , Farzi Jebraeil
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Pain is a common health issue and acute pain is the main problem for patients after surgery and injury. Inadequate and inappropriate management of pain is dangerous and costly for patients and leads to undesirable health effects. To overcome this problem, empowerment of the health-care team, especially nurses, is essential. Today, to improve the quality of health-care provision, various methods are used that e-learning is one of them.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Based on the studies on pain management, existing parameters were extracted, and according to them, the educational content of the software was approved by nursing professors and anesthesiologists. The Unified Modeling Language diagrams were designed to provide a better understanding of the entities and the order in which the software operates. The software was implemented in the google android studio environment using Photoshop and JQuery mobile. Finally, the software was evaluated by using Questionnaire for User Interface Satisfaction. The software was evaluated by experts and students in two stages. The first stage was evaluated by eight anesthesiologists and nursing professors, and the second stage was evaluated with the participation of 55 undergraduate students and 28 M.Sc. nursing students.

RESULTS:

The software was developed with two main modules of training and testing, and sections of the report, about us and exit, and four scenarios for the test section. In the initial evaluation of software by experts with an average of 91.85%, and in the second assessment of students, with a mean of 78.15%, application software was evaluated at a good level.

CONCLUSIONS:

In order to teach academic and practical (clinical) materials to students, the use of digital teaching aids and e-learning, along with traditional methods such as lectures, increases the students’ eagerness, and motivation to learn more and thereby enhance the level of learning and improving the quality of education.
Health-care determinants of mortality and recovered cases from COVID-19
Authors: Soofi Moslem , Matin Behzad Karami , Karyani Ali Kazemi , Rezaei Satar , Soltani Shahin
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

The COVID-19 pandemic has spread rapidly across the world and has currently impacted most countries and territories globally. This study aimed to identify health-care determinants of mortality and recovery rates of COVID-19 and compare the efficiency of health systems in response to this pandemic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A cross-sectional study was conducted using data obtained from the World Bank database, that provides free and open access to a comprehensive set of health- and socioeconomic-related data, by September 12, 2020. An adjusted linear regression model was applied to determine predictors of mortality (per 1 million population [MP]) and recovery rates (per 1 MP) in the included countries. One-way analysis of variance was applied to assess health systems' efficiency in response to COVID-19 pandemic using mortality and recovery rate (output variables) and current health expenditure (CHE) per capita (input variable).

RESULTS:

Globally, San Marino and Qatar had the highest mortality rate (1237/1 MP) and confirmed case rate (43,280/1 MP) until September 12, 2020, respectively. Iran had a higher mortality rate (273/1 MP vs. 214.5/1 MP) and lower recovery rate (4091.5/1 MP vs. 6477.2/1 MP) compared to countries with high CHE per capita. CHE per capita (standardized coefficient [SC] = 0.605, P < 0.001) and population aged 65 years and over as a percentage of total population (SC = −0.79, P < 0.001) significantly predicted recovered cases from COVID-19 in the included countries.

CONCLUSION:

This study revealed that countries with higher CHE per capita and higher proportion of older adults were more likely to have a higher recovery rate than those with lower ones. Furthermore, our study indicated that health systems with higher CHE per capita statistically had a greater efficiency in response to COVID-19 compared to those with lower CHE per capita. More attention to preventive strategies, early detection, and early intervention is suggested to improve the health system efficiency in controlling COVID-19 and its related mortalities worldwide.
Cultural validation of the competence in evidence-based practice questionnaire (EBP-COQ) for nursing students
Authors: Jafari Faranak , Azadi Hamed , Abdi Alireza , Salari Nader , Faraji Azam
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Evidence-based performance competence has a significant impact on the performance of care measures. The higher the qualifications of nurses, the more effective and desirable their performance. Evidence-based practice demonstrates the competencies and abilities of nurses. There is a need for valid and reliable tools for evaluating and promoting evidence-based competence in nursing students, and there are few tools in reviewing studies, but they have not considered the cultural dimension. The purpose of this study is to validate cultural competence in evidence-based practice for nursing students.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A methodological and validation study was conducted in the School of Nursing and Midwifery of Kermanshah and Ilam University of Medical Sciences in 2018. The Evidence-Based Performance Competency Questionnaire ( EBP-COQ) is one of the most valid tools used in various studies by Ruzafa-Martinez et al. Initially, the original version of the competence in evidence-based practice questionnaire was translated into Persian after securing a permission from the designer of the tool. Totally 300 nursing students were selected through simple sampling method and entered into the study. The validity of the tool was evaluated using face validity and performing factor analysis. The reliability of the questionnaire was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha and internal consistency. Statistical works were carried out in SPSS and AMOS.

RESULTS:

To determine the content validity of the tool, comparative fit index of the statements was obtained equal to 0.88. Factor analysis of the items yielded acceptable and statistically significant results (P < 0.001). The reliability of the tool was determined using internal consistency method (Cronbach's alpha) for the whole tool, which was equal to 0.7. The reliability of the questionnaire was investigated at two stages, and pretest/posttest correlation coefficients were obtained (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION:

The questionnaire had an acceptable validity and reliability. It can be used to evaluate evidence-based practice. Among advantages of the tool is that it is easy to administer in health-care fields.
Challenges faced by nurses while caring for COVID-19 patients
Authors: Vejdani Marjan , Foji Samira , Jamili Sara , Salehabadi Raha , Adel Amin , Ebnehoseini Zahra , Aval Shapour Badiee , Anjidani Ali Asghar , Ebrahimipour Hossein
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION:

In the COVID-19 crisis, nurses are directly involved in patient care, so they face many challenges. This study was performed to determine the challenges faced by nurses while caring for COVID-19 patients in Iran in 2020.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This qualitative, content analysis was conducted in Iran on ten nurses directly involved in the fight against the corona epidemic, selected through a purposeful sampling strategy. Data were collected through deep interviews consisting of open questions. All the interviews were recorded, and immediately after each interview, it was transcribed into written form. The data were analyzed using MAXQDA software.

RESULTS:

All the challenges could be classified into three main categories and 17 subcategories. The main categories were miss-management in controlling corona conditions, mental and physical complications and challenges in corona work conditions, and lack of sufficient workforce.

CONCLUSION:

Hospital managers and authorities play a significant role in meeting the financial needs and requirements of nurses, and can minimize the job discrimination prevalent at medical centers through providing financial and nonfinancial incentives for nurses. Moreover, the findings of the present study can help hospital managers and authorities to gain a better understanding of the experiences of nurses, and to take the necessary measures to obviate the challenges faced by nurses in public health emergencies.
Exploring physical therapy students’ experience of peer learning in a student-run clinic
Authors: Paparella-Pitzel Susan , Anderson Ellen Zambo , Rothpletz-Puglia Pamela , Parrott James Scott
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Participation in a student-run pro bono clinic (SRPBC) provides opportunities for students to develop professional skills, engage with the community, and provide an often-underserved population with needed care.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This paper describes the results of a mixed-method analysis of student experiences in an SRPBC. A survey with both Likert-type and write-in elements was administered to three cohorts of students enrolled in a doctoral program of physical therapy. Students were prompted to provide their perspective on the value of the clinic experience with respect to professional development, academic relevancy, and personal growth.

RESULTS:

The analysis discovered that perspective value of the clinic in the areas of personal growth and academic relevancy differed by cohort. Specifically, 1st-year students reported that they benefitted immensely by learning from their peers, especially in the use of outcome measures. Second-year students did not report the same benefits.

CONCLUSION:

The findings suggest that even though students from different cohorts work together in the same clinic, they may experience the clinic very differently. This observation provided the basis for changes to the SRPBC to enhance leadership and conflict management skills of the 2nd-year students.
Evaluation of clinical outcomes of neonates born to mothers with coronavirus (COVID-19) in Shahid Beheshti Hospitals
Authors: Hosseini Maryam Sadat , Hosseini Afsaneh , Ghaffari Elnaz , Radfar Mitra , Shirvani Fariba , Tabatabai Shahrzad , Abtahi Dariush , Mirhadi Mahsa , Mortazavi Maziyar , Ariana Shideh
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

The coronavirus, which is caused by acute respiratory syndrome, appeared in Wuhan, China, in December 2019 and gradually spread around the world until almost all countries became infected with the coronavirus. In Iran, the outbreak of coronavirus began on February 21, 2020, with the report of infection of two people in the city of Qom. The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical findings of neonates born to pregnant women with corona disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

During this case study (February 21 to November 30, 2020), out of 88 pregnant mothers who referred to the hospitals of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, 44 live neonates were born from 42 pregnant women with COVID-19, who were evaluated for clinical signs by studying their files and reported as a case series, due to limited samples, No statistical analysis of the study was performed.

RESULTS:

In studies of clinical records of hospitalized mothers and infants, among the polymerase chain reactions (PCRs) provided for all infants, one PCR was reported positive 2 days after birth, whereas this infant 10 min after birth, immediately after routine procedures, due to positive mother's PCR was isolated from the operating room. However, all of the infant's clinical symptoms were normal during the 3-day hospital stay for routine postpartum care. Twenty-eight days after birth, the baby was reevaluated for clinical, laboratory, and chest X-ray symptoms, all of which were normal. The PCR of other neonates was negative, and five intubated neonates, two twin, and two single died, and the other neonates were discharged. In evaluating the clinical records of mothers of these infants, the mean age is 30 years, and the average gestational age is 35 weeks, 32 cases of caesarean section, and 10 cases of normal delivery.

CONCLUSION:

We describe epidemiological data, demographics, signs and symptoms on admission, laboratory results, comorbidities, infection COVID-19 in the mothers and neonates, chest radiography and computed tomography findings, treatment received for COVID-19, and clinical maternal, fetal, and neonatal outcomes. Due to the fact that the study population is small consist of 42 mothers with COVID-19 infection, among all PCR samples from infants born to COVID-19 positive mothers, the PCR result of one case was positive, and the rest of was negative. Therefore, vertical transmission of COVID-19 through the placenta to the fetus cannot be confirmed or denied, nor can the COVID-19 confirmed or denied the baby's postnatal complication during pregnancy.
Relationship between health literacy in substance use and alcohol consumption and tobacco use among adolescents, Northeast Thailand
Authors: Yangyuen Suneerat , Mahaweerawat Chatchada , Thitisutthi Sawan , Mahaweerawat Udomsak
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Health literacy (HL) is an important role-play in health risk behaviors such as alcohol drinking and smoking. Inadequate HL in substance use (HLSU) is a barrier to reduce the risk of alcohol and tobacco use. This study aims to investigate the association of HLSU with alcohol consumption and tobacco use among Thai adolescents. Hence, the strengthening of HL program intervention may applied to reduce substance abuse among Thai adolescents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was a cross-sectional study conducted on 1087 university students studying in three universities located in northeastern area with multistage sampling methods by geographical areas. The data were collected by self-administered questionnaire. Multiple logistic regression was applied to determine the effect of HLSU of alcohol consumption and tobacco use.

RESULTS:

Most adolescents were drinkers (60.7%) and about 20.7% were smokers. Approximately 40% of them reported as inadequate HLSU. Adolescents with inadequate HLSU and a high level of positive alcohol expectancies and smoking outcome expectancies (SOE) were more likely to drink alcohol and smoke. Conversely, those who had a high level of negative alcohol drinking and SOE were less likely to consume alcohol and tobacco.

CONCLUSION:

Adolescents’ alcohol consumption and tobacco use were influenced by HL, hence improving adolescents’ HLSU could help prevent or reduce the risk of drinking and smoking behaviors.
Evaluation of the quality of working life and its effective factors in employed nurses of Tehran University of Medical Sciences Hospitals
Authors: Khajehnasiri Farahnaz , Foroushani Abbas Rahimi , Kashani Bita Forati , Kassiri Negin
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Quality of working life (QWL) refers to aspects of life quality, which are related to work settings. This study was designed to evaluate the QWL and its effective factors among nurses of Tehran University of Medical Sciences Hospitals.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In this cross-sectional descriptive–analytical study, the demographic questionnaire and work-related quality of life questionnaire were used to collect data among 435 nurses working in hospitals, affiliated to Tehran University of Medical Sciences. This article has been adapted from the approved project of Medical Ethics Committee of Tehran University of Medical Sciences (with the identification code 8911215132).

RESULTS:

The average QWL of nurses in the study was 50.56. There was a significant statistical relationship between gender, frequency of overtime, and working ward with QWL (P < 0.05). In a multivariate analysis, working ward had the only meaningful relationship.

CONCLUSION:

Due to low QWL of nurses in the emergency department, the need of interventions to improve conditions and ultimately to increase QWL of nurses working in the emergency room is being reminded.
The effect of self-care self-efficacy program on life satisfaction of the Iranian elderly
Authors: Alavijeh Mahnaz Shafiei , Zandiyeh Zahra , Moeini Mahin
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

With the increase in the elderly population in the world and the consequent increase in diseases and their physical and mental problems, improving self-care behaviors by increasing self-efficacy in the elderly plays an important role in promoting their health and can increase their life satisfaction. This study aimed to investigate the effect of self-care self-efficacy program on life satisfaction of the elderly referred to selected health centers in Isfahan, Iran, in 2014.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study was a quasi-experimental study with two experimental and control groups and was performed on 64 elderly people referred to selected health centers in Isfahan. The samples were randomly divided into experimental and control groups, and a self-care self-efficacy program was performed on the experimental group. Data collection tools included demographic information questionnaire and life satisfaction indexes A questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the statistical tests such as Chi-square, independent t-test, Mann–Whitney, repeated measures analysis of variance, and Least Significant Difference (LSD) post hoc test.

RESULTS:

There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of demographic characteristics. Before the intervention, the mean score of life satisfaction was not statistically significantly different between the two groups (P = 0.88). However, immediately and 1 month after the intervention, the mean score of life satisfaction in the experimental group increased, and this score was significantly different between the two groups (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS:

The results of this study showed that the self-care self-efficacy program has been effective in increasing the life satisfaction of the elderly. Therefore, using this self-care self-efficacy program is recommended to promote life satisfaction in the elderly.
Comparison of the effect of two teaching methods on surgical technologist students’ learning and satisfaction (flashcards vs. mobile-based learning)
Authors: Sadati Leila , Nafar Mehran , Karami Sahar , Yazdani Mohamad Reza , Khaneghah Zahra Nouri
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

M-learning is “learning across multiple contexts, through social and content interactions, using simple hand-held technologies, wireless and mobile network. This personal electronic device is a way to facilitate the transfer of learning and improve teaching. Hence, the researchers decided to design a mobile-based learning application to teach surgical instruments comprehensively and compare students’ learning and satisfaction in both mobile-based learning and flashcards methods.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

An interventional study was conducted on surgical technologist students in Alborz University of medical science (2019). Students were divided into two groups: flashcards (n = 21) and mobile application learning group (n = 21). The difference of pre- and post-test scores was considered for the evaluation of learning level in two groups. Data were entered into SPSS 20.0 software and analyzed by statistics tests. Data were analyzed by a paired t-test, independent t-test, and Pearson's correlation coefficient.

RESULTS:

There was no significant difference in students’ knowledge level between two groups before intervention (P = 0.87) but there was significant difference between groups after the intervention (P = 0.003). In the evaluation of student's satisfaction, the mobile application was preferred by 84.28% of students.

CONCLUSION:

Given the effectiveness of using both methods (flashcards and mobile application), it is recommended that these methods especially mobile application be used for surgical instruments education.
Age-standardized mortality rate and predictors of mortality among COVID-19 patients in Iran
Authors: Moradzadeh Rahmatollah , Jamalian Seyed Mohammad , Nazari Javad , Kamali Alireza , Sadeghi Bahman , Hosseinkhani Zahra , Sofian Masoomeh , Zamanian Maryam
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

To have a thorough understanding of epidemic surveillance, it is essential to broaden our knowledge of death tolls worldwide. This study aimed to determine the age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) and predictors of mortality among coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In this cross-sectional design, all COVID-19 patients with a positive polymerase chain reaction test in the population covered by Arak University of Medical Sciences (AUMS) were entered to the study. Data collection was conducted by phone interview. The study variables comprised age, sex, coronary heart diseases, diabetes, and some symptoms at admission. The adjusted odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were obtained by logistic regression. The direct method was applied to calculate ASMR (per 100,000) of COVID-19. The analysis was applied by STATA software 12.0.

RESULTS:

A total of 208 cases of COVID-19 (out of 3050 total infected cases) were dead and 2500 cases were recovered. The mean age of dead patients was 70 years. The COVID-19 fatality rate in the population equaled 6.8%; in those patients who were 70 years old or more, however, the case fatality rate was 16.4%. The ASMR of COVID-19 was 12.9 (CI 95%: 11.2, 14.8). The odds of COVID-19-related death in the age over 60 were 10.87 (CI 95%: 6.30, 18.75) times than lower 45 years old. Moreover, it was observed that COVID-19 significantly increased the odds of COVID-19-related death in diabetes patients (OR = 1.45, CI 95%: 1.02, 2.06, P = 0.036).

CONCLUSION:

The ASMR of COVID-19 was relatively higher in males than females. In general, the COVID-19 fatality rate was relatively high. We found that older age and diabetes can have impact on the death of COVID-19, but the headache was found to have a negative association with the COVID-19-related death.
Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice towards COVID-19 among paramedical staff in Central India
Authors: Chindhalore Chaitali Ashish , Dakhale Ganesh Natthuji , Umathe Amrita
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Knowledge of a disease can influence paramedic's attitudes and practices, and incorrect attitudes and practices directly increase the risk of infection. Understanding paramedic's knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) and possible risk factors helps to predict the outcomes of planned behavior. To assess KAP regarding COVID-19 through Google form among paramedical staff at tertiary care teaching institutes of central India.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A cross-sectional, multicentric, questionnaire-based study was conducted from May 2020 to August 2020 among 230 paramedical staff from two tertiary care teaching institutes through Google form. Data were analyzed by Chi-square test and parametric test using GraphPad prism software version 5.0.

RESULTS:

All participants had knowledge about symptomatology of COVID-19. However, significantly more participants in nursing cadre know about definition of close contact. The mean knowledge score was 4.84 ± 0.6. The mean score for attitude was 4.48 ± 0.83. Overall, 54.78% of paramedical staff follow correct prevention strategies. Of them, significantly more nursing staff correctly practice infection control measures upon arrival of COVID-19 patients (P = 0.033). There was a significant difference among both groups regarding wearing of appropriate personal protective equipment while transporting/accompanying patients who are confirmed with COVID 19 (P = 0.009). The overall score for practice is 3.97 ± 1.03. The practice score was significantly better in nursing cadre as compared to nonnursing cadre (P = 0.038).

CONCLUSION:

Majority of the participants had good knowledge and positive attitude. Nursing cadre follows better preventive practices as compared to nonnursing cadre while performing COVID-related duties. Considering these facts, dodges responsible for poor practices should be identified and resolved so that India will be able to conquest the battle against the disease.
Survey of happiness in students of Iran University of Medical Sciences and its relationship with students’ attitudes toward the field of education and the future of career
Authors: Rahimi Khalifeh Kandi Zahra , Ziapour Arash , Pirouzeh Razieh , Faghihi Mitra , Jalilvand Hadi , Mansourian Morteza
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Happiness is one of the main components of mental health that plays an important role in promoting people's health. This study aimed to investigate the status of happiness in students of Iran University of Medical Sciences and its relationship with students’ attitudes toward the field of education and the future of career in 2017.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This cross-sectional study was performed on 500 students of Iran University of Medical Sciences The data collection tool was a questionnaire consisting of three parts: demographic information, Oxford Happiness Inventory; A questionnaire was used to measure students’ attitudes about their career future, which was completed by students of Iran University of Medical Sciences. In order to analyze the data, SPSS software version 24 and descriptive and analytical statistics were used.

RESULTS:

Findings showed that 72% of students had a good level of happiness. There is also a significant relationship between happiness and attitude toward the field of study. According to the results, there is a significant relationship between the career future and the amount of happiness. There was a significant relationship between gender and happiness

CONCLUSION:

The study findings show that, by planning correctly in determining the fields of education and ensuring the future of the job, happiness can be improved among students. Therefore, it is recommended that the authorities take the students with the correct needs assessment in the field of business education in the field of study.
Quality of life and caste discrimination among the tribal population, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India: A community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: SenthilKumar Sri Varsha , Ravichandhiran Gowthamkarthic , Agadi Soumya , Wali Abhinandan R. , Dhongadi Prashant
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

According to the 2011 census in Tamil Nadu, out of a total population of 721.47 lakhs, 7.95 lakhs were scheduled tribes (STs), which constitutes about 1.1% of ST in Tamil Nadu and 0.8% of ST compared to the total ST population in India. A brief understanding of India’s caste system and its evolution over time was required to determine caste-based discrimination. Hence, they are vulnerable and isolated due to this untouchability in the caste system. This study focuses on the quality of life (QOL) and caste discrimination among the tribal population of Chengalpattu district. Further, it provides suggestions to improve the QOL and to put an end to discrimination.

Methodology:

It is a community-based cross-sectional study, conducted among 300 participants among the tribal population in Chengalpattu district by a systematic random sampling technique.

Results:

The QOL scores were further converted into categorical variables by obtaining the mean score and dividing the group into those who got a score above the mean and those below the mean. They were labeled as good and poor QOL. More than half of them (52.7%) had poor QOL. Almost two-third of the workers had poor QOL in the social relationship (60.7%) and psychological (64%) domains, and nearly half in the physical (52.7%) and environmental (52.7%) domains. Out of 300 participants included in the analyses, 141 (47%) participants reported experiencing discrimination a few times a year/a few times a month.

Conclusion:

This study found that the tribal population in Chengalpattu district has poor social and psychological QOL compared to QOL in the environmental and physical domains. In spite of many government initiatives, a wide range of issues and problems are being faced by the tribals in India. Hence, we recommend strategies to improve the physical, social, and psychological well-being of this vulnerable population through strict legislation. The other component regarding discrimination concluded that caste but not socio-economic class is closely linked with perceived discrimination among the tribal population in Chengalpattu district and their responses to unfair treatment.
Relationship of obesity indices with clinical severity and nerve conduction studies in females presenting with median nerve compression neuropathy at the wrist
Authors: Salamh Fawaz , Habib Syed Shahid , AlRouq Fawzia , Albarrak Anas , Al-Khlaiwi Thamir , Khan Adeena
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is considered to be one of the most common peripheral nerve disorders with female preponderance which significantly reduces work efficacy and needs further research on its preventable factors, especially obesity. We studied the effects of obesity indices on Phalen’s test duration and median nerve conduction study (NCS) parameters in patients presenting with CTS.

Methods:

We examined 229 female patients presenting with clinical features of CTS. Clinical examinations including Phalen’s test, median NCSs, and body composition were evaluated. Obesity indices and electrophysiological parameters were compared.

Results:

There were significant associations of both body mass index (BMI) degrees and body fat percent (BF%) with clinical and NCS parameters with a linear relationship. BF% and BMI were strongly negatively correlated with Phalen’s test duration (BF%; r = -0.334, BMI; r = -0.270 P = 0.001). On the other hand, BF% and BMI were positively correlated with median distal latency (BF%; r = 0.338, BMI; r = 0.372, P value = 0.001), M-latency (BF%; r = 0.264, BMI; r = 0.285, P = 0.001), median motor conduction velocity (MMCV) (BF%; r = 0.119, P = 0.072, BMI; r = 0.173, P = 0.009), median sensory conduction velocity (MSCV) (BF%; r = -0.195, P = 0.003, BMI; r = 0.327, P = 0.001), and sensory nerve action potential (SNAP amplitude) (BF%; r = -.239, BMI; r = -0.350, P = 0.001).

Conclusions:

Nerve conduction parameters are significantly affected by obesity degree defined by BMI and BF%. Therefore, combining BMI and BF% assessments gives more clinical information regarding CTS severity and management. The true predictive value of these indices needs to be elucidated further.
A cross-sectional study to assess the occupational health hazards among fisherwomen in a metropolitan city
Authors: Hadaye Rujuta S. , Dey Aditi
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Context:

Research on the working conditions and health hazards of fishing communities in developing countries is scarce.

Aims:

1) To assess the occupational health hazards among women fish vendors. 2) To understand the morbidity profile in them. 3) To analyze various challenges faced by them at the workplace in this occupation. 4) To suggest various measures including ergonomic solutions that they can take to reduce these health hazards.

Settings and Design:

Community-based observational cross-sectional study.

Methods and Material:

Eight fish markets comprising women fish vendors working for more than one year (age > 30 years) in Mumbai were selected. A cluster sampling method was used. The sample size was 225. The period of the study was 2 years.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Chi-square test

Results:

The majority of study subjects had diabetes mellitus (24%) and were overweight (54.7%). Of all participants, 55.1% had musculoskeletal pain of which low back pain (69; 30.7%) was most common. There was a significant association between musculoskeletal pain status and mode of carrying boxes, χ2 (1) =56.35 as well as with duration of occupation, χ2 (3) =89.67, P < 0.001. Of all participants, 90.2% got injured of which the majority had incisional wounds (124; 61.1%). Of all participants, 55.1% suffered from skin infections of which the majority (28; 12.4%) had itching and redness of hands and legs. There was a significant association between skin infections and duration of occupation, χ2 (3) =140.53 as well as with the use of gloves (63.2% participants), χ2 (1) =20.395, P < 0.001.

Conclusions:

Various measures including ergonomic solutions that women fish vendors can take to reduce these health hazards need to be addressed.
Preferences and factors determining preferences for mode of delivery among primigravida mothers
Authors: Kalyan S Shobitha Gopi , Bhardwaj Geeta , Shafqat Naseema , Verma Mamta
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Childbirth is a beautiful life event, a unique personal experience for each woman. The study aimed to assess the preferences and factors determining preference for mode of delivery among primigravida mothers.

Materials and Methods:

A descriptive exploratory design was applied to explore the factors for preferring the mode of delivery among 250 antenatal mothers, selected by convenient sampling technique. A self-structured dichotomous questionnaire on preference and factors influencing preference for mode of delivery was used. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was done using SPSS 20 software.

Results:

The majority of participants (98.4%) preferred vaginal delivery over elective cesarean section as a mode of delivery. The significant factor influencing preferences was speedy recovery after delivery (89.8%). However, significant factors for preferring the cesarean mode of delivery were the obstetrician’s advice and the baby’s safety (100%).

Conclusion:

The majority of women preferred a vaginal mode of delivery; they still undergo cesarean mode of delivery. Considering factors, there is a need to develop a positive attitude toward NVD and actions to create awareness toward a safe mode of delivery by building a mutual trust environment and increasing effective dissemination of correct and neutral delivery option advice.
Reduced burden on urban hospitals by strengthening rural health facilities: Perspective from India
Authors: Arora Mansi
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

In India, rural–urban health disparities have been persisting over a period. Migration of patients from rural to urban is an integral part of population dynamics thereby creating an additional burden on urban hospitals. Over the decade, India has made significant advances in health in reducing the rural-urban gap. The article highlights how the strengthening of rural healthcare facilities has reduced the burden of urban hospitals. Secondary data on the usage of public and private healthcare facilities from two rounds of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) conducted in 2016 and 2021 and the Rural Health Statistics 2021-2022 were analyzed. The proportion of beneficiaries seeking care from public health facilities has increased from 41.9% to 45.7% in rural areas and 31% to 35.3% in urban areas between 2014 to 2017. The institutional deliveries have increased from 56% to 69.2% in rural areas and from 42% to 48.3% in urban areas. The State and local level interventions such as the upgradation of existing physical infrastructure, human resources, regular supply of medicines and consumables, development of referral linkages, patient transportation, and enhancing community participation have strengthened the rural healthcare system. Adequate utilization of the resources is crucial to addressing the lag and alleviating the rural-urban divide.
Prevalence and determinants of post-COVID-19 syndrome among patients 6 months post-discharge from a teaching hospital in South India
Authors: Areekal Binu , Thumbayil Nayana K. , Thasleema T. E. Fathima , Hareesh Akshay , Parambath Nidhinraj , Rithu N , Varghese Betsy
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection has affected millions of people worldwide in the last 4 years. Among those infected, the long-term COVID-19 syndrome, in which symptoms of COVID-19 persist for a variable period, is posing new challenges to the health system, but few studies are available in India that examine the post-COVID-19 syndrome, that is, 6 months and beyond COVID-19 infection. This study aimed to find the prevalence and determinants of post-COVID-19 syndrome among patients 6 months and beyond their infection.

Methodology:

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 patients who were admitted and discharged from Government Medical College, Thrissur, at least 6 months before with a diagnosis of COVID-19 infection. The data collection was performed using a semi-structured interview schedule through a telephonic interview. The analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software.

Results:

21% of the patients studied had at least one persistent symptom at the end of 6 months, and 4.1% had more than one symptom. Among the symptoms persisting most commonly were fatigue (11%) and dyspnea (7.7%). Other than persisting symptoms, 21% of patients developed exertional dyspnea and 19% developed sleep disturbances during the 6 months after discharge. The factors that were associated with persistent symptoms in univariate analysis were increasing age, presence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), presence of chronic kidney disease (CKD), and admission to the intensive care unit (ICU).

Conclusion:

The study concludes that one-fifth of the patients still suffer from post-COVID-19 syndrome even 6 months after the COVID-19 infection. Our health systems should be prepared for the long-term management of COVID-19-infected people and prepare policies for the same.
Exploring factors influencing the perspective regarding HIV transmission and prevention among college students in India
Authors: Khargekar Naveen , Takke Apurva , Athalye Shreyasi , Panale Priyanka , Rajamani Nithin , Banerjee Anindita
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Objective and Design:

Although many studies have been conducted to assess the knowledge and practices among healthcare workers, high-risk groups or medical students, very few studies have been conducted among college students from non-medical backgrounds. Our study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes and perception about human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) among the college students of the Mumbai region and to determine their association with the socio-demographic variables.

Setting and Methods:

A cross-sectional online and offline questionnaire survey was conducted among 401 college students from the month of August 2022 to October 2022. Mean score and percentage were used to analyse the data.

Results:

About 82.04% of participants exhibited good knowledge about HIV transmission and prevention, while 46.38% had a positive attitude towards HIV. Age, gender, religion and education had not influenced either knowledge or attitude significantly. Overall, knowledge score had a weak positive correlation with attitude of the participants.

Conclusion:

Our study findings indicate that a holistic approach covering knowledge, psychological and societal health aspects is necessary among youth in India for positive changes in people’s behaviour and achieving HIV prevention and management goals which will benefit public health at large.
Comparison of fatty liver index with fibroscan in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Ahmed Marium , Saeed Rabeeya , Kamani Lubna , Durrani Noureen , Ahmed Faraz
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Context:

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an escalating global health issue. Early detection and precise diagnosis are imperative for effective management.

Aim:

To evaluate the sociodemographic and clinical attributes of study participants concerning their ultrasound grading with FibroScan and FLI values.

Settings and Design:

A cross-sectional study was carried out among patients visiting gastroenterology clinics at a tertiary care hospital situated in Karachi, Pakistan.

Methods and Material:

We included participants after written informed consent underwent an extensive array of laboratory assessments, encompassing liver function tests, lipid profile, fasting blood sugar analysis, hepatitis B and C screening, and abdominal ultrasound, while those with positive hepatitis B or C markers, documented alcohol use, or those who declined to offer informed consent were excluded from the study.

Statistical Analysis:

Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.

Results:

Around 225 patients were studied with a median age of 42 years (IQR = 34–50 years). Metabolic syndrome (MetS) was present in 61.8%. Steatosis was not found among 4.9% of patients, whereas severe steatosis was seen among 51.1% of patients. Significant variations in BMI, WC, GGT, and TG levels were identified when comparing FLI scores. The same was observed for the frequency of MetS as FLI scores increased. The agreement between FLI and ultrasound observations was found to be slight (k = 0.077, P = 0.027). On the multivariable regression model, having diabetes, elevated serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase levels and mild disease on ultrasound were associated with increased odds of severe steatosis.

Conclusion:

FLI is a good predictor of frequency of MetS and NAFLD and correlates well with increasing steatosis score (CAP) on FibroScan which can be utilized for early detection of NAFLD in primary care.
Effects of diabetes mellitus complications on sleep quality among Saudi Arabian patients-A national study
Authors: Al Ahmari Meshari Mushabbab , AL Zomia Ahmed Saad , Asiri Abdullah Hassan , AL Saif Ali Abdullah , Deajim Mosab Abdulaziz , Asiri Faisal Mosa , Al Ahmari Amnah Awadh , Jamhan Abdullah Yahya , Alharbi Sana Ali , Al Jabal Abdullah Oudah , Alnahdi Shroug Abduallah , ALmofareh Abdulrhman Mohammed
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

In diabetes mellitus (DM) patients, obtaining a good night’s sleep is crucial for maintaining body caloric intake, controlling insulin levels, and reducing the likelihood of engaging in unhealthy behavior. Patients with poor sleep quality may experience impaired glycemia, playing a significant role in the development of chronic complications. This study aims to explore the effects of DM complications on sleep quality among Saudi Arabian patients.

Patient and Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study conducted among patients with diabetes. A self-administered, validated questionnaire translated into Arabic was distributed among diabetic patients using an online survey. The questionnaire includes sociodemographic characteristics (i.e. age, gender, marital status, etc.), the medical history of the patients, and a questionnaire about sleep quality.

Results:

Out of 4171 patients involved, 52.7% were females and 27.7% were aged between 40 and 60 years old. The prevalence of patients with perceived poor sleep quality was 24.1%. Significant predictors of poor sleep quality were the gender female, having social stressors, comorbid sleep disorders, associated comorbidities, increasing HbA1c levels, being overweight/obese, and diabetes complications. Furthermore, sleep disturbance, taking sleep medications, daytime sleepiness, and having bad dreams during sleep were also identified as prognostic factors for poor sleep quality.

Conclusion:

The subjective poor sleep quality of patients with diabetes was 24.1%. Poor sleep quality was significantly demonstrated by females who were having social stressors, comorbid sleep disorders, comorbidities, uncontrolled HbA1c levels, elevated BMI levels, and complications of diabetes. However, regular physical activity and adequate sleep were estimated to be the protective factors against poor sleep quality. Further research is needed to establish the effect of sleep quality among patients with DM.
A post-COVID-19 assessment of resilience of nurses and paramedical workers in municipal hospitals of urban Pune, India
Authors: Patil Ketankumar Hitendra , Tawar Nitin Sanjay , Kudale Abhay Machindra
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Objectives:

To assess the resilience of primary healthcare workers (HCWs) by determining the factors associated with developing resilience post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Study Design:

A cross-sectional study in selected municipal hospitals.

Methods:

Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale was used to assess the resilience of the 245 HCWs, including the nurses and paramedics working in Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) hospitals in Pune City. Data were analysed using the Chi-square test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), independent-samples t-test and correlational analysis using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28.

Results:

The mean resilience score of the HCWs in PMC hospitals post-COVID-19 was 75.09 (±9.25). The score for hardiness, optimism, resourcefulness and purpose was 20.15 (±3.87), 21.22 (±3.39), 17.24 (±2.76) and 16.40 (±2.17), respectively. Seven factors were significantly associated with the resilience of nurses and paramedics, namely age (P < 0.001), work experience (P < 0.001), monthly income (P < 0.001), having faced financial problems during COVID-19 (P < 0.001), hospital setting (P < 0.05), marital status (P < 0.01) and professional category (P < 0.001). In addition, 60% of the participants reported mental health issues due to routine workloads such as irritation/anger, frustration and tension/worry, fatigue and work-related stress, and sadness and anxiety. Suggestions for improvement were mainly increasing human resources, proper management, skilled staff, improved facilities and funding, and cooperation among staff.

Conclusion:

The resilience of primary HCWs in Pune post-COVID-19 was higher than HCWs in other countries assessed during COVID-19. Further, resilience was found more among nurses than paramedics. Modifiable factors affecting resilience must be addressed to improve the resilience of HCWs to build everyday resilience and strengthen health systems for public health emergencies.