bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
P-197 POTENTIAL USE OF DRIED FAECAL SLUDGE IN BRIQUETTES PRODUCTION IN TANZANIA; ADDRESSING PUBLIC HEALTH, ENVIRONMENTAL AND ENERGY CHALLENGES
Authors: Mbonaga Silaji , Puig Marina Rovira , Seco Júlia , Chacha Nyangi
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Domestic and industrial activities struggle to find affordable, reliable, and eco-friendly cooking fuel. Traditional fuelwood is negatively impacting the environment and consumer’s health. Concurrently, Tanzania faces challenges in managing faecal sludge, risking water sources, and threatening public health. This study explores the potential use of faecal sludge as an energy fuel through briquetting technology for addressing waste management and energy recovery.

Methods

The study examined faecal sludge briquettes from treatment facilities in combination with wastepaper, cassava peels, and banana peels (cooked and uncooked) as feedstocks. The manual pressing machine was used for briquettes fabrication. Moisture content of briquettes was determined using the oven dry method. To determine the energy properties, the following parameters were analysed: The Moisture Content percentage, Fixed carbon, and High Heating Value.

Results

Wastepaper 25% briquettes achieved recommended moisture content (10%). Increasing binder concentration led to an increase of moisture. Briquettes with 75% wastepaper presented low moisture and high fixed carbon. Briquettes with 75% wastepaper showed the highest heating value (21MJ/Kg). Statistical analysis showed no significant differences.

Discussion

Moisture content, volatile matter, ash content, fixed carbon, and high heating value of fabricated briquettes analysis showed that briquettes with wastepaper at 75% binder concentration present highest calorific values. This high energy value indicates that such briquettes can be a more efficient fuel source for industrial and domestic uses.

Conclusion

This finding suggests that these briquettes can serve as a promising solution for both domestic and industrial energy requirements. Further research on alternative binders is recommended.
P-201 RESEARCH ON IMMUNOLOGICAL HEALTH RISKS FOR WORKERS USING MINERAL OIL
Authors: Kuroda Yoshiki , Hinoura Takuji
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Mineral oil is used by workers in many factories. It was reported previously that one hydrocarbon from petroleum named pristane (C19) induced lupus-related autoantibodies such as antinuclear, anti-ssDNA and anti-nRNP antibody. However, the effect of other component of mineral oil was not studied sufficiently. Therefore, we investigated the effect of other mineral oil (heptadecane(C17), hexadecane(C16), pentadecane(C15), tetradecane(C14), and squalene(C30)), and studied the mechanism of autoantibodies induction from mineral oil.

Methods

Female BALB/cJ mouse were used. At 3 months of age, we injected target hydrocarbons into intraperitoneal cavity of each mouse. After 3 months later from injection, we sacrificed the mouse and extracted serum, peritoneal and spleen cells from mouse. We evaluated autoantibodies induction and T cell function using serum, peritoneal and spleen cells.

Results

1) The power of autoantibodies induction was more powerful on hexadecane comparing pristane and squalene. Hexadecane induced autoantibodies such as antinuclear, anti-ssDNA and anti-nRNP antibodies frequently, and titer of the antibodies was induced higher. However, other mineral oil which was lower molecular weight than hexadecane didn’t indicate not so high induction. 2) Spleen T cells of mineral oil injected mice indicated lower expression CD3ζ compared to untreated mice. 3) After adding L-arginine, lower CD3ζ expression of spleen T cells recovered quickly.

Discussion

We revealed that the autoantibody induction could be related to molecular weight, and associate to decline of CD3ζ and serum L-arginine.

Conclusion

Our results indicated that the mineral oil could have a health disturbing risk for worker using much mineral oil.
P-203 DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF AN ADVANCED IOT-BASED SMART SENSOR FOR DETECTION OF TOTAL VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUNDS
Authors: Ham Seunghon , Kim Wook , Kim Yongkyo , Choi Won-Jun , Kang Seong-Kyu
Published: July 2024

Introduction

With the increasing importance of protecting workers from exposure to hazardous chemicals, there is a growing demand for integrating ICT technologies, especially IoT, into workplace environment monitoring systems. In this study, we present the development and implementation of an IoT-based smart sensor device specifically designed to detect TVOCs in the workplace.

Methods

An IoT-based smart sensor chemical monitoring system was developed and implemented in the electronics industry. The system used a TVOC sensor, an LTE communication module, and a web-based platform. The system was mainly used for tasks such as inspection and equipment cleaning. In the actual workplace, the system was applied to a workplace that performs cleaning in the electronics industry, which uses TCE as a degreaser.

Results

It is possible to identify the processes that generated TVOCs. The monitoring system, placed closer to the source of the chemical emissions, often showed elevated exposure levels. In particular, 28% of the data from the jig cleaning operation exceeded the STEL, indicating that it could be used to prevent acute poisoning by immediately identifying exposure.

Discussion

Incorporating IoT technology into workplace monitoring systems can provide real-time data to supplement traditional workplace environmental assessment methods. In addition to identifying overall exposure levels, the system can pinpoint short-term and peak exposures, which is essential for preventing occupational acute poisoning accidents.

Conclusion

IoT-based smart sensor monitoring systems have significant potential to improve worker protection from chemical hazards by ensuring accurate, rapid, and thorough exposure to prevention.
O-123 TELE-INTENSIVE CARE: THE NTPC REMOTE COVID MANAGEMENT MODEL
Authors: Behera Bk
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has enormously stressed the global healthcare system compelling the discovery of new approaches to care, especially by leveraging the use of technology in telehealth.

Methods

In India, the Government’s release of the Telemedicine Practice Guidelines enabled health providers to deliver essential medical evaluation, diagnosis, and triage remotely by use of technology.

Results and discussion

Patients with COVID-19 present with a range of symptoms, and some need intensive care. The management of critically ill patients is resource-intensive and requires a partnership between especially skilled manpower and machines. Monitoring is key to critical care. In many countries, including India, the distribution of intensivists is skewed and tends to be predominantly toward urban tertiary care hospitals. This leads to the non-functioning of Critical care centers in remote areas. Hospitals without on-site intensivists may benefit from tele-ICU services wherein electronic systems connect ICU patient data with intensivists at remote locations as part of a collaborative network. Technology-enabled remote monitoring and management of covid patients were carried out through Tele ICU care in projects and stations of NTPC, the premiere power-producing company of India, which were situated in remote locations of the country. The intensivists provided real-time data and audio-visual monitoring, diagnostic, and intervention services and worked together with bedside teams to bridge the critical care gap.

Conclusion

Rapid deployment of tele-ICU services was essential in gaining the confidence of the workforce and thereby preventing migration of essential staff required for the operation of power plants. This application saved many lives. Caregiver stress was minimized by remote care providers who assisted 24*7.
P-209 DATA ANALYTICS APPLIED TO OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH: OCCUPATIONAL RISK ANALYSIS OF UNITED STATES COMPANIES
Authors: Molina Graciela , Taboadela Claudio , Aldaz Santiago
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Data science is an interdisciplinary field that integrates different disciplines: statistics, programming, mathematics, computing and logic, among others. Its purpose is the search, collection, extraction, and analysis of data that can be structured or unstructured to carry out decision making.

Methods

A public database “Severely Injured Workers” located in the Kaggle® web community was used to provide information for this paper. Injuries were coded using the Occupational Health and Illness Classification System. Data covered 22 000 incidents from 1st January 2015 to 28 February 2017. Two data analysis tools were used: Microsoft Excel® and Public Tableau®.

Results

Data analytics permitted the identification of companies with the highest and lowest rates of occupational accidents and the severity of the injuries, among other variables.

Discussion

The data analysis allowed us to understand the patterns of occupational hazards and risks in different industries throughout the United States of America.

Conclusion

Data analysis allows a new and innovative approach to data interpretation by using not only predictive models in the detection of accidents, but in occupational diseases too. It allows the identification of occupational hazards and risks in different industries and companies. It also facilitates the analysis and interpretation of large amounts of data, to make informed decisions, with the ultimate aim of reducing the morbidity and mortality in workers.“
P-211 COMMUNICATING RISK DURING PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCIES: LESSONS LEARNED FROM THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Valenti Antonio , Maringhini Guido , Monti Carlo , Gagliardi Diana , Iavicoli Sergio
Published: July 2024

Introduction

In the last decades, the World Health Organization (WHO) recognized the importance of risk communication as a key factor to achieve general compliance and improve community engagement to preparedness and response measures during public health emergencies. The COVID-19 pandemic revealed the weaknesses of risk communication in a context characterized by uncertainty and insufficient medical and scientific knowledge about SARS-CoV-2, which induced confusion in the public and represented a challenge for evidence-based decision making. Additionally, the context of communication was marked by easy access to an unprecedented number of sources of information, not always understandable and manageable by the public (infodemic).

Methods

In order to contribute to the identification of practical recommendations for the improvement of current risk communication strategies during health emergencies, we propose a model with an integrated approach, which considers interconnections at institutional, scientific and mass communication level.

Results

We identified a series of guiding principles, including the need for a more inclusive risk communication, which would consider all the actors involved, as well as the adaptation of communication strategies to different scenarios and epidemiological contexts.

Discussion

Communication should follow pre-established steps (preparation, monitoring, intervention, and reinforcement) to support people, especially during health emergencies. In this sense, institutional communication plays a key role, and the exponential growth of government’s social media accounts during the recent pandemic further highlights it.

Conclusion

Communication should be embedded in any pandemic plan, therefore the Italian Ministry of Health has established a permanent team to coordinate the aspects of risk communication for the present national pandemic plan.
O-127 ASSESSING PREVALENCE OF DERMAL SYMPTOMS AND FACTORS ASSOCIATED AMONG FLOWER FARM WORKERS IN THE KAMPALA METROPOLITAN AREA, UGANDA
Authors: Agaba Marianna
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Flower farms in Uganda heavily depend on fertilizers and pesticides to manage pests and boost the yields. Despite their advantage, they have a health impact on the flower farm workers. The chemicals used in commercial flower farms have known skin effects however there is paucity of prevalence studies on dermal symptoms and associated risk factors in flower farms.

Objectives

The general objective of this study was to explore the prevalence of dermal symptoms and associated factors among flower farm workers in Kampala Metropolitan area.

Methodology

Data on socio-demographic, job related, skin symptoms and OSH was collected for 433 respondents and their immediate supervisors in eight flower farms in the Kampala Metropolitan Area in August 2021. A mixed-methods approach was used. Logistic regression was applied to determine factors associated with the dermal symptoms. Conventional content analysis was applied qualitatively.

Results

The prevalence of dermal symptoms was found to be at 45.83%. Itching was the most reported; prevalence of 40.9%. Dermal symptoms were associated with: - being a store attendant and maintenance and transporter;9-12 hours of work; history of working on another farm previously; using spirit, chlorine and acid; handling chemicals 1-3, 4-7 and 8-10 times weekly; gaps in provision and use of PPE and poor OSH practices.

Conclusions/Recommendations

There’s a moderate prevalence of dermal symptoms among flower farm workers in the Kampala Metropolitan Area. The management in these flower farms should ensure participation of all their workers in the application and review of OSH risk identification of hazards that affect the skin and assessment practice.
P-213 TRENDS OF THE REPORTING OF OCCUPATIONAL SKIN CANCERS FROM EXPOSURE TO SOLAR RADIATION IN ITALIAN WORKERS
Authors: Modenese Alberto , Gobba Fabriziomaria
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Keratinocytes cancers (KC), i.e. basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), are among the most frequent occupational tumors in Caucasian individuals, associated to chronic solar radiation (SR) exposure. Both outdoor workers (OW) and workers with mixed outdoor/indoor exposure are at risk. Aim of this work is to analyze the trends in the number of occupational KC reported to the Italian workers’ compensation authority (INAIL) in the last fifteen years vs. the expected cases based on KC incidence.

Methods

Through the INAIL statistical database, we retrieved the numbers of KC reported per year, while, based on literature and cancer registries consultation, we estimated KC incidence. Finally, we calculated the expected SCC and BCC incidence in Italian OW and workers with mixed outdoor/indoor activities.

Results

The number of KC reported to INAIL was of 50 cases in 2010, reaching a maximum of 123 cases in 2019. We estimated about 3 millions of workers with relevant SR exposure in Italy, resulting in an expected incidence of at least 1,000 occupational KC per year.

Discussion

Recent data show an increasing trend in the reporting of occupational KC in Italy, even if the phenomenom is still under-estimated, with about 1/10-1/20 of the expected cases reported to INAIL.

Conclusion

Despite some improvements in the awareness concerning work-related SR exposure risk in Italy in recent years and an increase of the number of occupational KC reported, an effort is still needed for a better prevention of skin cancer risk among Italian OW and workers with mixed outdoor/indoor activities.
O-133 DIGITIZING HEALTHCARE IN AN OVERBURDENED HEALTHCARE SYSTEM: AN ETHNOGRAPHIC STUDY IN PATHOLOGY
Authors: Geisler Birte Linny , Amperidou Ourania , Mattern Sven , Schürch Christian M , Rieger Monika A , Rind Esther , Preiser Christine
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Health workers in Germany show high rates of work-related stress. Digital innovations promise to lighten the workload. We examine the experiences of health workers with a digital transformation in a pathology department of a German hospital. How does the digitization affect the work environment? How, in turn, do existing working conditions (e. g. staff shortages) influence the digitization?

Methods

Using an ethnographic study design, we conduct participant observations, focus groups, and semi-structured interviews from mid-2022 to fall 2023. The method of data analysis is Braun and Clarke’s Reflexive Thematic Analysis. Ethical approval was granted in July 2022.

Results

While the new technology promises future relief, its implementation is running in parallel with ever-increasing workloads and high numbers of staff turnover. A project team has been set up to establish the process, but it faces the challenges of limited working time and an unpredictable time schedule (e.g., due to delayed delivery). Health workers’ high intrinsic motivation and resilience are important resources. But they also feel the loss of their expertise in “traditional” pathology, while the new expertise is not yet in place.

Discussion

The digitization of healthcare carries the risk of doubling the workload of health workers in a system that already suffers from scarce resources. Digital solutions cannot compensate for fundamental problems in an overburdened healthcare system. In some areas, additional human resources are even needed to use the new technology responsibly.

Conclusion

A responsibly managed digitization process includes openly addressing the downsides and risks of digitization.
O-135 NURSES’ DISCONTENT WITH THEIR CURRENT JOB AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS - A CROSS-SECTIONAL SURVEY IN SWEDISH PRIMARY HEALTH CARE
Authors: Karlsson Elin
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Turnover among nurses is an increasing problem for healthcare globally, and in Sweden the shortage of nurses in primary health care has increased sharply in recent years. The aim of this study was to investigate primary care nurses’ turnover intention, job satisfaction, change fatigue, leadership climate, and social support in Sweden. The aim was also to identify and characterize those nurses with both high turnover intention and low job satisfaction.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional survey of 466 registered nurses working in Swedish primary health care. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. A new variable was created (discontent with current job), based on the responses from the two variables of job satisfaction and turnover intentions.

Results

The results demonstrate that 21.1 % of the respondents are dissatisfied with their current job and have intentions to search for another job. Discontent had significant associations with poor leadership climate, lack of support from colleagues, and working more than 40 hours per week.

Discussion

The results have implications for how health care organizations structure the work of nurses in primary health care and how they may attract future staff to these workplaces as well as how to facilitate for them to remain.

Conclusion

Health care organizations and decision makers need to consider the psychosocial working conditions for nurses in primary health care in order to retain their staff and to maintain high quality in the care that the nurses are expected to provide.
O-140 THE SITUATION VIS-À-VIS LATENT TUBERCULOSIS INFECTION OF HOSPITAL STAFF AT ENTRY AND POST-CONTACT TO ACTIVE TUBERCULOSIS: A STUDY AT A TERTIARY HOSPITAL IN THAILAND
Authors: Chaiear Naesinee , Kraisorn Phanumas , Ngarmchokwatta Chatpong , Faksri Kiatichai , Chantarasuk Yingrit , Phewkliang Arunya
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Hospital staff are at higher risk of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI), but there is limited understanding of the real LTBI situation among the large hospital staff in Thailand. Objectives: 1) We investigated 1) the proportion of LTBI among hospital workers at entry and after they were prioritized as having had high or medium contact with active TB, and 2) the recent development of LTBI.

Methodology: This was descriptive research done on 2,021 hospital staff between 2016-2020. The recent development of LTBI was studied in 416 hospital staff between 2021-2022. The QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus was used to determine LTBI (QFT-Plus).

Results

The proportion of LTBI among the hospital staff at job commencement was 8.02% (97/1210), compared to 12.5% (101/811) post-contact to active tuberculosis (TB). The 5-year prevalence of LTBI was 9.80% (198/2021). Hospital staff post-contact with TB were categorized as high priority (61.9%), and most index cases were patients (86.9%). No active cases of TB were found following post-contact with TB. 49.9% of LTBI cases were treated with preventive treatments. As for the recent development of LTBI, annual surveillance was reported at 2.4% (10/416), whereas 13.5% (5/37) were found post-contact with TB, and most cases during performance of aerosol generated procedures (AGP).

Discussion

In Thailand, a program for hospital staff post-contact with active TB surveillance is worth considering. Hospital staff performing AGP should be aware of appropriate respirators.

Conclusion

The proportion of LTBI among hospital staff in Thailand was not as high as previously reported. Post-contact to TB is worth routine implementation.
O-141 EXAMINING THE IMPACT OF PSYCHOSOCIAL RISKS ON NURSES’ INTENTION TO LEAVE: A STUDY IN A UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL
Authors: Celik Saadet Goksu , Demiral Yucel
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This study examines the impact of psychosocial risks on nurses’ intention to leave.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, a total of 204 female nurses participated, and the Swedish Demand-Control-Support Questionnaire (DCSQ) was used to assess psychosocial risks, while the Anticipated Turnover Scale evaluated nurses’ intention to leave. Multilevel logistic regression models were conducted to predict nurses’ intention to leave.

Results

In the logistic model, demands (OR=2.26, 95% CI: 1.18-4.31) and social support (OR=0.37, 95% CI: 0.19-0.70) were found to be significantly associated with nurses’ intention to leave. On the other hand, job control (OR=1.40, 95% CI: 0.75-2.63), age (OR=0.96, 95% CI: 0.90-1.03), work schedule (OR=1.75, 95% CI: 0.65-4.72), and job position (OR=0.78, 95% CI: 0.29-2.07) did not demonstrate statistically significant relationships with nurses’ intention to leave.

Discussion

The study’s findings indicate that high work demands are associated with a greater likelihood of nurses’ turnover, while social support plays a protective role. However, job control, age, work schedule, and job type did not demonstrate significant associations with nurses’ intention to leave. The DCSQ might not fully capture newly defined psychosocial risks. Future research employing updated assessment tools is needed for a more comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing nurse retention in hospitals. In addition, this study has limited generalizability especially to private sector as the participants were civil servants.

Conclusion

Managing work demands and fostering social support are crucial for nurse retention in university hospitals.
O-146 MEDICAL WELLNESS STRATEGIES IN A HIGH COMPLEXITY CLINIC: THE CASE OF THE ‘DOCTORES OK (DOK)’ PROGRAM IN CALI, COLOMBIA
Authors: Fonseca-Muñoz Mauricio
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Physician wellness is critical to providing high quality medical care, especially in highly complex environments. The Doctors OK (DOK) Program in Cali, Colombia, seeks to address the unique challenges faced by physicians in these settings through innovative wellness strategies.

Methods

A quantitative and qualitative study involving 150 physicians from a high complexity clinic in Cali was conducted. Surveys, interviews and observations were used to assess stress, job satisfaction and other indicators of well-being before and after the implementation of the program.

Results

After the implementation of the “DOK” program, a 25% improvement in stress levels and a 30% improvement in job satisfaction were observed among participants. In addition, there were significant decreases in burnout levels.

Discussion

The results suggest that specific wellness strategies can have a significant impact on physician well-being in high-complexity settings. However, further research is needed to determine the applicability of these results in other settings and populations.

Conclusion

The Doctors OK (DOK) Program proved to be effective in improving physician wellness in a high-complexity clinic in Cali, Colombia. These findings could serve as a model for similar programs in other high-complexity health care settings.
P-217 LESSONS FROM HEALTHCARE WORKER RISK OF COVID-19: A 20-MONTH ANALYSIS OF PROTECTIVE MEASURES FROM VACCINATION AND BEYOND
Authors: Yassi Annalee , Barker Stephen , Lockhart Karen , Grant Jennifer , Okpani Arnold Ikedichi , Sprague Stacy , Zungu Muzimkhulu , Lubin Stan , Sing Chad Kim
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This study examines the impacts of rigorously implemented infection control, public health and occupational health measures in protecting healthcare workers (HCWs), beyond vaccination.

Methods

We followed a cohort of 21,242 HCWs in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada for 20 months from the time the pandemic started until rapid antigen testing ended comprehensiveness of data capture. We used Cox regression and test-negative-design to examine differences in SARS-COV-2 infection rates compared to community counterparts, and within the HCW workforce, assessing the role of occupation, testing accessibility, vaccination rates, and vaccine effectiveness over time.

Results

Nurses, allied health professionals and medical staff in this jurisdiction had a significantly lower rate of infection compared to their age-group community counterparts, at 47.4, 41.8, and 55.3% reduction respectively. Licensed practical nurses and care aides had the highest risk of infection among HCWs, more than double that of medical staff. However, even considering differences in vaccination rates, no increase in SARS-CoV-2 infection was found compared to community rates, with combined protective measures beyond vaccination associated with a 17.7% reduced SARS-COV-2 rate in this workforce overall.

Discussion and conclusion

Rigorously implemented occupational health, public health and infection control measures, with excellent communication channels, resulted in a well-protected healthcare workforce with infection rates at or below rates in community counterparts. Greater accessibility of vaccination worldwide is essential; however, as protecting this workforce globally also requires considerable health system strengthening in many jurisdictions, we caution against overly focusing on vaccination to the exclusion of other effective elements for wider protection of HCWs.
P-220 EFFECTIVENESS OF HEALTH PROMOTION PROGRAMS AMONG HEALTH WORKERS: RESULTS OF TWO INTERVENTIONS IN A LARGE ITALIAN UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL
Authors: Spiteri Gianluca , Monaco Maria Grazia Lourdes , Carta Angela , Taus Francesco , Torroni Lorena , Verlato Giuseppe , Porru Stefano
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Health promotion (HP) is an important goal of Occupational Medicine. Workplace interventions showed their effectiveness in improving employees’ health. However, studies on health workers (HW) are few and limited, involving small groups. The aim of this research was to evaluate the usefulness of HP programs (HPP) in a large University Hospital.

Methods

In 2020, two online screening questionnaires were addressed to the over 4,900 HW belonging to the University Hospital of Verona. Salt consumption (SC) was assessed through MINISAL questionnaire, while the risk of sleep apnea (SA) was evaluated through STOP-BANG. HW at high risk for high SC were invited to an individual counseling session and a 6-month follow-up, while polygraphy was offered to HW at high risk for SA.

Results

MINISAL and STOP-BANG were filled out by 34% and 31% of the study population. In particular, 350 were included in the high SC category and 212 in the high risk for SA. Follow-up examinations were performed in 95 HW; 83% showed a reduction in SC. Polygraphy was performed in 64 HW; 69% were diagnosed with SA and a pulmonological examination was therefore recommended.

Discussion

The prevalence of HW at high risk for high SC or SA was low, as compared to the general population. The percentage of HW participating in HP programs and the adherence to counseling recommendations were good, showing a high awareness among HW.

Conclusion

Our studies confirmed the effectiveness of HPP among HW. Screening questionnaires are low-cost and easy-to-perform tools, very useful in involving large working populations.
P-221 BURNOUT AND QUALITY OF WORK LIFE AMONG FIRST-YEAR INTERN PHYSICIANS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Surawattanasakul Vithawat , Siviroj Penprapa , Kiratipaisarl Wuttipat
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed physicians to extreme stress and burnout, which has decreased their quality of work life. This study aimed to examine the association between burnout and quality of work life (QoWL) among intern physicians.

Methods

A cross-sectional questionnaire of 241 first-year intern physicians using an online platform was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic in Thailand. We used the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey for Medical Personnel. The Brief Thai version of a QoWL scale containing 25 questions in total was assessed. Multivariable logistic regression was employed in statistical analysis.

Results

Low, moderate, and high QoWL were reported by participants (27.4%, 69.7, and 2.9%, respectively). They frequently had burnout: 79.3% of high emotional exhaustion (EE), 56.8% of high depersonalization (DP), and 56.8% of low personal accomplishment (PA). According to the exploratory model with sex and age adjustments, physicians with high DP and low PA were associated with a low QoWL adjusted OR (aOR) 2.08, 95% CI 1.01 to 4.31, aOR 2.74, 95% CI 1.40 to 5.39.

Discussion and conclusion

First-year intern physicians had a high proportion of low QoWL compared to previous studies in Thailand and internationally. Low QoWL is evident which is, associated with subscales such as high DP, and low PA. Public hospital administrators should consider serious burnout. Take care and prevent the impact on mental health and quality of life, which requires a systematic approach to be addressed.
P-224 IMPACT OF THE PRESENCE OF A MEDIATOR IN EMERGENCY DEPARTMENTS ON PATIENT VIOLENT BEHAVIOURS AGAINST HEALTHCARE WORKERS
Authors: Touzet Sandrine , Buchet-Poyau Karine , Denis Angelique , Occelli Pauline , Jacquin Laurent , Potinet Véronique , Signal Alain , Delaroche-Gaudin Marine , Fayard.gonon Florence , Tazarourte Karim , Douplat Marion
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Considering violent behaviors from patients towards healthcare workers (HCW) in emergency departments (EDs), we evaluated the impact of mediators in EDs on violent behaviors perpetrated by patients or their relatives against HCW and on HCW well-being at work.

Methods

A randomized trial was performed in 4 French EDs during 12 months. EDs’HCW, patients aged ≥18 and their relatives were included. Four mediators worked alternately in the EDs. The main outcome was the rate of ED visits with at least one act of violence carried out by a patient or relatives declared by HCW. HCW well-being was measured with the Work-Related Quality of Life (WRQoL) scale.

Results

50,429 ED visits were assigned to the mediator intervention group (IG) and 50,851 to the control group (CG). Mediators reported 1,365 actions (e.g. response to a request for information on the clinical management or waiting time). The rate of ED visits with at least one act of violence was 0.26% in the IG and 0.21% in the CG (OR=1.23; 95%CI [0.73; 2.09]). WRQoL was analyzed for 102 HCW in IG and 125 in CG. The mean (range) overall WRQoL score was 2.9 (1.2-4.8) for the pre-mediator intervention survey and 2.9 (1.2-4.2) for the post-mediator intervention survey. The adjusted mean difference of the overall WRQol was -0.03 (95%CI [-0.20; 0.13]).

Discussion

Interventions by mediators did not affect violent behavior or on HCW well-being, but highlighted a major need for communication between patients and HCW.

Conclusion

Research studies targeting communication with patients are needed to reduce violence in EDs.
P-230 WORKING DIFFICULTIES AMONG UNLICENSED NURSING ASSISTANTS IN JAPANESE HOSPITALS -DIFFERENCES BY AGE AND HOSPITAL TYPES-
Authors: Sasaki Minako , Ito Michiyo , Lee Jung Su
Published: July 2024

Introduction

To maintain the healthcare delivery system in Japan, which is super-aged society, it is necessary to utilize unlicensed personnel as nursing assistants. However, there are few applicants for nursing assistants, and many hospitals have vacancies. We need to understand the difficulties they face in their job.

Methods

We examined job-related difficulties for nursing assistants by age and hospital type. We conducted a web-based survey of nursing assistants working in Japanese all hospitals in 2019. We asked the hospital nursing directors to select a nursing assistant randomly and to give a letter of request to the nursing assistant. This study was approved by the Research Ethics Review Board.

Results and discussion

Valid responses were obtained from 1,337 (16.0%) nursing assistants. Harassment from patients (32% on average, 40% in their 20s) and harassment from multiple professions other than nursing (9% on average, 16% in their 20s) were more common among those in their 20s. Harassment by patients was more common in long-term inpatient hospitals and psychiatric hospitals (32% on average, 36% in long-term inpatient hospitals, 51% in psychiatric hospitals). When crossed with the selection of “anti-harassment measures” by their hospital to keep working, 31% of those who answered they were harassed by patients, expected the measures. In long-term inpatient hospitals, the percentage of dementia patients are high, and psychiatric hospitals, it was thought that young nursing assistants were not coping well and had given up on the situation as something that could not be helped and quit their job.

Conclusion

Training and support systems for nursing assistants are needed.
P-233 INCIDENCE RATE OF LATENT MYCOBACTERIUM TUBERCULOSIS INFECTION AMONG HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS
Authors: Alves Helena , Abreu Diogo , Camarinha Salomé , Silva Laura , Pereira Miguel , Melo Daniel , Sardo Ana , Mautempo Fernando
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Exposure to biological agents is the main occupational risk factor for healthcare workers. The most frequently implicated pathogenic agents in cases of occupationally acquired infection are the human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis C and hepatitis B viruses, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This retrospective cohort study aimed to determine the incidence rate of latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection among healthcare professionals.

Methods

A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was conducted between 2018 and 2021, focusing on healthcare professionals who underwent Interferon Gamma Release Assay testing.

Results

A total of 1,236 Interferon Gamma Release Assay tests were performed for early latent Tuberculosis screening and treatment, with 62 positive results. The incidence rate of latent Tuberculosis showed a downward trend over the study period, with rates of 9.18% in 2018, 5.26% in 2019, 2.97% in 2020, and 3.05% in 2021. Nurses (38.7%) and hospital aides (30.65%) had the highest number of cases among all professional categories.

Discussion

Our findings indicate a downward trend in incidence, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic and stringent infection control measures. This highlights the potential of adequate infection control measures in preventing nosocomial transmission of tuberculosis.

Conclusion

Our study underscores the crucial role of latent Tuberculosis as a major concern for hospital occupational health. Early screening and treatment for latent Tuberculosis, can significantly lower the risk of active Tuberculosis development. Detecting latent Tuberculosis early on and implementing effective infection control measures, including organizational strategies, are essential to fight Tuberculosis among healthcare professionals.
P-236 PREVALENCE OF HARASSMENT AMONG THE MEDICAL STAFF OF THE UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL OF RABAT
Authors: Elaoudi Yasmina , Manar Nadia , Bouri Hicham El , Deschamps Frédéric , Laraqui Hossini Chakib
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The aim was to estimate the prevalence of moral harassment among medical staff and to describe its clinical aspects.

Methods

This cross-sectional study involved a representative sample of 337 physicians with at least 6 months of seniority. The survey was based on a self-administered questionnaire including: socio-demographic and professional data, job satisfaction, stress, mental health indicators, and Leymann Inventory of Psychological Terror. Moral harassment was defined by exposure to at least one workplace violence situation, at least once a week and for more than 6 months during the last 12 months.

Results

The average age was 32.9 ± 7.7 years and 52.2% were female. The average seniority was 6.6 + 6.7 years. Physicians in training and teaching staff represented 63.5% and 18.1% respectively. During the last 12 months, work stoppage for more than 8 days and consumption of psychotropic drugs for depression or anxiety disorders were reported respectively by 8.3% and 17.8% with a significant female predominance. 52.8% have been exposed to at least one bullying situation during the last 12 months (61.7% among physicians in training and 46,8% among associates). Its direction was downward (38.6%) or horizontal (29.1%). The prevalence of moral harassment was 16.2%, of which 77.8% were physicians in training. Job satisfaction and self-declared stress were reported by 49.6% (14.8% among the harassed against 56.2% among the non-harassed) and 26.4 (87% among the harassed and 14.9% among the non-harassed) respectively

Discussion and conclusion

Organizational and managerial deficiencies were the main causes of bullying. Preventive measures are needed to improve the mental health of physicians
P-238 DESCRIPTIVE STUDY OF STRESS AND BURN OUT AMONG HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS IN COVID 19
Authors: El Ghorfi Souad Filali
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Psychosocial risks (PSRs) represent major issues for occupational health and safety. They correspond to “work situations where stress, internal and external violence are present, combined or not” INRS, 2018. During the COVID 19 period, these risks particularly affected nursing staff.

Methods

descriptive study uses Karasek and MBI questionnaires self-administered to nursing staff in the northern region of Morocco over a four-month period.

Results

150 people from 24 establishments responded voluntarily/ 46.85% suffered from chronic stress, and were subject to job strain and ISO strain, 25.17% suffered from burnout. High scores of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and low scores of personal fulfillment were observed in 46.2%, 51% and 63.6% of respondents respectively. 53% of women, 47% of men, 28% of doctors, 56% of nurses, 8% of midwives, 8% of technicians, 46.1% worked in the COVID unit.

Discussion: Discussion

Stress and burn-out are the result of work overload (Kapasa, 2021) (Zine El Abidine & slaoui, 2021), sleep problems (20%), lack of safety measures (55.5%), lack of support in difficult situations (51.3%) less experience (Kamal et al, 2020, El Hage et al, 2020). Analysis of healthcare staff profiles shows that 25.17% have burnout, 8.4% are ineffective, 1.4% are disengaged, 0.7% are overextended and only 2% are committed. these profiles are useful when designing prevention measures.

Conclusion

Covid 19 showed that primary and secondary prevention measures are insufficient in Moroccan hospitals. Tertiary prevention measures were deemed ineffective, with only 2% of healthcare staff having used the psychological support unit set up by the Ministry of Health.
P-240 SYMPTOM CHECKERS AND GENERAL PRACTITIONERS’ WORK-RELATED STRESS. A QUALITATIVE INTERVIEW STUDY WITH GENERAL PRACTITIONERS IN GERMANY
Authors: Preiser Christine , Radionova Natalia , Oeg Eylem , Rieger Monika A
Published: July 2024

Introduction

In Germany, like in many countries, general practitioners (GPs) show higher levels of work-related perceived stress than the general population. Staff shortages and the increasing demands of an aging population add to the challenges facing GPs. Symptom Checkers (SCs) are ascribed the potential to relieve an overburdened healthcare system and health workers as they provide lay people with preliminary diagnostic suggestions and suggest a course for action. From an occupational health perspective, we are interested in how SCs interplay with GPs’ work-related stress.

Methods

Between December 2020 and February 2022, we conducted qualitative interviews with n=8 GPs in Germany. By in-depth analysis, we identified relevant topics and GPs’ implicit concepts. After n=8 interviews, no new aspects were found despite a heterogeneous sample. Results were discussed with research participants and further GPs.

Results

All GPs’ had a high workload which had even increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their scarcest resource was their time due to patient demand and volume compounded by the reimbursement system. Most GPs were open-minded to new technologies, but only one GP had direct experiences with SCs. All GPs saw SCs as part of the “unorganized stage” in the diagnostic process and did not feel that the process was significantly changed by SCs. They rated SCs possibilities too low to actually decrease the number of unnecessary consultations.

Discussion

The impact of SCs in general practice in Germany seems very limited.

Conclusion

GPs remained pragmatic about the vision of SCs to reduce the work-related stress of health workers in an overburdened healthcare system.
P-241 PANDEMIC FATIGUE AMONG YOUNG DOCTORS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF RESILIENCE
Authors: Kotti Nada , Sellami Imen , Masmoudi Rim , Dhouib Feriel , Hrairi Anouare , Hammami Kaouthar Jmal , Masmoudi Mohamed Larbi , Masmoudi Jaweher , Hajjaji Mounira
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The ongoing pandemic due to coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is not only causing casualties amongst patients but is also putting an enormous strain on healthcare workers worldwide, especially those in frontline of the COVID-19. This study examined the influence of pandemic fatigue on young doctors’ mental health, with resilience as a mediator.

Methods

This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study involving frontline young doctors from Tunisia. The Pandemic Fatigue Questionnaire, Brief resilience scale, Maslach Burnout Inventory and Satisfaction on call duty scale were used to collect data through an online survey.

Results

A total of 261 young doctors responded to the online survey. The mean pandemic fatigue score was 25.09 (out of 50). Terminal years of residency experience (β=0.171, p=0.005), being vaccinated (β=0.129, p=0.032) and staff inadequacy (β=0.205, p=0.001) were associated with elevated score of pandemic fatigue. Resilience partially mediated the relationships between (a) pandemic fatigue and different dimensions of burnout (emotional exhaustion (β=0.337, p<0.0001), depersonalization (β=0.311, p<0.0001) and personal accomplishment (β=0.185, p=0.004) and (b) pandemic fatigue and satisfaction on call duty (β=-0.137, p=0.03).

Discussion

Healthcare providers are vulnerable in the current pandemic, given their risk of exposure to the virus, poor staffing, shortages of personal protective equipment, longer work hours, and involvement in emotionally and ethically fraught resource-allocation decisions.

Conclusion

Resilience reduces the effects of pandemic fatigue on young doctors’ mental health. Implementing resilience-promoting measures are essential to support young doctors’ mental health and foster their well-being therefore improve the quality of care provided.
P-250 MEDICAL OXYGEN AND OTHER ACCESSORIES GAP ANALYSIS FOR ZIMBABWE- CRISIS MANAGEMENT PREPAREDENESS ASSESSMENT
Authors: Nherera Tawanda
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Medical oxygen needs and gap analysis - Zimbabwe Introduction The Global Fund (GF) continues to provide significant investments to support Zimbabwe to strengthen HIV/AIDS, TB, and Malaria program delivery to ensure the realization of broader developmental goals. The advent of COVID 19, has resulted in increased need for medical oxygen to facilitate adequate Respiratory Care Treatment at service delivery points in the country. A needs and gap analysis had not been conducted to establish the true country capacity and gap in medical oxygen generation and supply. It is against this background that this assessment was done by the Global Fund representatives to establish the status of planned/ongoing medical oxygen generation and supply activities in the country.

Methodology

The assessment activities were a combination of desk review (leveraging on secondary data collected from literature, historical records) and physical on-site verifications (using structured questionnaires) at sampled facilities. Physical key informant interviews were conducted with relevant stakeholders i.e., PRs, MOHCC, World Health Organization, and other partners including medical oxygen manufacturers and health facility personnel. A probability sampling technique (cluster sampling), was employed by grouping health facilities into clusters and then sample health facilities to consider within each cluster.

Results and discussion

Zimbabwe has four medical oxygen manufacturers. 100% of the facilities were considered on assessments for quality assurance as well as production and distribution capability versus country demand and needs.

Conclusion

Healthcare facilities do not have adequate accessories for oxygen deployment with the efficiency that is required and therefore cannot manage crises currently. Inadequacy of biomedical staff was also evident.
P-251 HOW DID CANADIAN HEALTHCARE WORKERS DESCRIBE STRESSORS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC?
Authors: Durand-Moreau Quentin , Labrèche France , Adisesh Anil , Ruzycki Shannon , Stroud Erica , Zadunayski Tanis , Cherry Nicola
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Few studies have reported stress factors in healthcare workers (HCW) using open-ended questions, which collect a higher diversity of respondent perceptions than anticipated by researchers. Our objective was to describe stress factors reported by HCW in open-ended questions during the four phases of a large cohort study in Canada.

Methods

A prospective cohort of 4964 HCW was assembled with physicians, nurses, healthcare aides and personal support workers recruited from Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario and Quebec. Participants completed 4 online questionnaires (phase 1 in spring/summer 2020, phase 2 in fall 2020, phase 3 in spring 2021, phase 4 in spring 2022). Each questionnaire included an open-ended question on stressful events since the start of the pandemic or since the previous questionnaire. Responses were classified into 29 categories.

Results

Eight stress categories were reported 1000 times or more among the 17,436 questionnaires from the 4 phases. Five categories showed a downward trend over time: fear of COVID-19, difficult access to personal protective equipment, changing guidelines, management of difficult cases, changes to work routine. An increasing trend was noted for volume of work, and poor behavior from the public or staff. Difficulties managing patients’ deaths remained quite steady.

Discussion

Reporting of most stressors has decreased over the pandemic. However, the volume of work and the poor behavior of the public, patients and coworkers were seen to increase, consistent with reports of overtime work late in the pandemic.

Conclusion

The expression of stressors in open-ended questions helps identify levers for reducing them.