bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
P-227 PREVALENCE AND IMPACT OF MUSCULOSKELETAL PAIN AMONG SURGEONS AFTER THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Ntani Georgia , D’Angelo Stefani , Walker-Bone Karen 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
COVID-19 severely disrupted healthcare systems. Surgeons are dealing with prolonged waiting-lists, leading them to work longer hours under high stress. We aimed to describe the physical and psychosocial demands on surgeons in the UK, their experience of musculoskeletal pain and their impacts in the post-Covid era.

Methods
UK surgeons were surveyed about body pain and work-related factors. Specifically, they answered questions about weekly occupational activities, job dissatisfaction, work-life balance, access to favourable working conditions, provision for physical comfort at work, and their mental wellbeing. Musculoskeletal pain was assessed across eight bodily sites. Poisson regression modelling with robust confidence intervals was used to explore relationships between work-related factors and musculoskeletal pain.

Results
Surgeons (N=242) reported high engagement with strenuous occupational activities and an imbalance between work and their private life, while 1 in 6 reported being dissatisfied with their job. The one-month prevalence of musculoskeletal pain ranged from 46% at the lower back, to 12% at the ankle, while only 17% reported no pain. Better work-life balance had a protective effect against pain (PRR=0.92, 95% CI=0.85-0.99), while risk of pain increased with number of physically demanding activities at work (PRR=1.04, 95% CI=1.01-1.07) in the age- and sex-adjusted models.

Discussion
This study demonstrated high physical and mental demands in surgeons in the post-Covid era. Pain prevalence rates exceeded those seen in other occupations, and related physical and emotional links were identified.

Conclusion
Fit surgeons ensure optimal patient care. Our findings suggest that they face health issues and work-life conflict, potentially limiting their longevity and career span.
P-231 NEAR-COMMUTING CRASHES AND ITS INDIRECT RELATIONSHIP WITH WORK-HOME DEMANDS VIA SERIAL MEDIATORS AMONG HOSPITAL NURSES: A PLS-SEM APPROACH
Authors: Ismail Khairil Idham , Yusoff Hanizah Mohd , Ismail Rosnah , Khamis Nor Kamaliana 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Near-commuting crashes among nurses were often underreported. Conversely, commuting crashes involving nurses are becoming more common worldwide. Nurses endure demanding experiences at work and at home. This demand can spill over into other areas of their lives, causing them to become overwhelmed and exhausted. The same phenomenon can occur during commuting, resulting in near-commute crashes or crashes themselves. However, evidence of the complex interplay between work-home demands and near-commuting crashes via serial mediation is limited and confined as a single mediator. This study aims to determine work fatigue (acute and persistent) and unsafe driving behaviours as serial mediators in the relationship between demands (work and home) and near-commuting crashes among hospital nurses.

Methods
The study employed stratified proportionate random sampling of hospital nurses from 8 tertiary hospitals. The structural equation modelling technique was used to analyse the data, which comprised 436 nurses. Both acute and persistent work fatigue were controlled for age, gender and number of children. Unsafe driving behaviours were controlled for driving skills and commuting impedance. A bias-corrected bootstrap confidence interval was used to determine indirect effects.

Results
The confidence interval for the indirect effects of work-home demands and near-commuting crashes did not straddle zero indicating a mediating role for work fatigue (acute and persistent) and unsafe driving behaviours.

Discussion and conclusion
The relationship between work-home demands and commuting crashes via work fatigue and unsafe driving is established. Having an understanding of this mechanism can help stakeholders implement fatigue mitigation interventions at work and modify their driving behaviour to prevent commuting crashes.
P-242 A NATIONAL PROGRAM ON OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH PROTECTION FOR HEALTH WORKERS IN CHINA:ANALYSIS ON TWENTY-YEAR PROGRESS FROM TIMELINE PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Zhang Min , Liu Tuo , Chen Liang , Shi Chunlan , Chen Na 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Healthcare settings have been recognized worldwide as being the complex environment with multiple occupational hazards toward health workers (HW). A national program on occupational health for HWs was initiated in China in 2003, with close collaboration of WHO/ILO. The analysis focuses on the program progress based on the 20-year timeline.

Methods
We summarized milestone activities, reviewed evidence from studies, and used an interpretive approach to share policy advocacy and outcomes.

Results
(1)Activities: Leading the drafting of national standard on occupational bloodborne pathogens exposure (OBPE) among HWs (2003). implementing the national OBPE guidelines (2010). ILO/WHO HealthWISE has been applied since 2016, followed by ten HealthWISE Training-for-Trainer workshops covering 260+ hospitals across China (2015-2022). Two national professional networks were developed in NGOs (2017-2019). (2)Studies: Over ten qualitative and quantitative studies resulted in 44 articles and 5 books (2003-2023), shaping the Model of Hospital Initiative on Systematic Occupational Health (2016). (3)Policies: The program influenced policies, including the Guideline for Prevention and Control of OBPE (2009) and participation in national legislation on workplace violence, occupational health, and women’s rights (2019-2022).

Discussion
The national program demonstrated sustainable implementation. With over 11 million HWs in China safeguarding the population’s well-being and health system resilience, post-COVID-19, robust occupational health measures are vital in China and globally.

Conclusion
In the post-COVID-19 era, prioritizing robust occupational health measures for HWs is paramount in China and the world. The program’s efforts underscore the importance of protecting HWs who contribute tirelessly to society’s welfare and healthcare system function.
P-243 OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE AND IMPACT OF MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS ON OPERATING ROOM INSTRUMENTALISTS
Authors: Khouja Nihel , Bechrifa Emna , Ismail Saloua , Baraketi Emna , Fatma Naourez Ben , Belkahla Amira , Guitouni Yosra , Hsinet Jihen , Benzarti Aida 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Operating rooms (ORs) Instrumentalists are confronted with biomechanical and psycho-organizational constraints at work, exposing them to a high risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Aims: To describe the specific occupational exposure of ORs instrumentalists to MSDs risk factors, and assess their impact on the health of these workers.

Methods
Descriptive cross-sectional study examined instrumentalists in various ORs using a pre-established self administered questionnaire, in February 2023.

Results
One hundred and ninety instrumentalists, predominantly female (sex ratio=0.28), with an average age of 32.25±8.51years and professional seniority of 7.91years, completed the questionnaire. They commonly performed repetitive (48.4%), gestures at a fast pace (73.7%), requiring high precision (92.1%) and great attention (95.3%). The work tasks were described as complex (79%), demanding high muscle strength (72.7%), and prolonged standing (62.6%). Additionally, they reported their work as stressful(67.3%), monotonous(35%), and unmotivating(31%), with a lack of autonomy(78%) and remuneration(81%). Physical constraints in the workplace were reported as cold(82.1%), insufficient lighting(25%) and vibrations(13%). In the last year, they experienced pain in various body areas: lower back (62.1%), shoulders (53.2%), neck (50%), wrists (17.9%), elbows (13.2%), and fingers (8.9%). The pain was attributed to work (76.8%), leading to medical treatment (38.4%) and sick leave (28.4%), impacting professional activity for 13.7% of employees and 28.4% of employees taking temporary leave.

Discussion
Instrumentalists are confronted to face gestural and postural constraints that can cause work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), affecting their health and work-fitness.

Conclusion
The findings underscore the necessity of implementing proactive measures to safeguard the well-being and productivity of the ORs staff.
P-244 WORKPLACE VIOLENCE DURING THE PANDEMIC: A SURVEY AMONG PHYSICIANS AND DENTISTS IN THE ITALIAN REGION MOST AFFECTED BY THE PANDEMIC
Authors: Belingheri Michael , Paladino Maria Emilia , D’Orso Marco Italo , Teruzzi Carlo Maria , Riva Michele Augusto 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Violence against healthcare workers (HCWs) is an increasingly frequent phenomenon, especially during the recent pandemic. The aim was to investigate workplace violence against physicians and dentists during the pandemic.

Material and Methods
Data were collected through an anonymous online questionnaire addressed to physicians and dentists enrolled at various Boards in Lombardy, the Italian region most affected by the pandemic. The questionnaire was based on the “Workplace Violence In The Health Sector” questionnaire, developed by the WHO.

Results, discussion and conclusion
There were 1290 participants, including 367 (28.4%) hospital doctors, 245 (19.0%) freelance doctors, 240 (18.6%) general practitioners, and 226 (17.5%) dentists. Most participants were female (52.0%) and aged 55 years or older (51.0%). 493 (38.2%) HCWs reported one or more acts of violence during the practice of their medical profession in the previous two years. The most frequent acts of violence were harassment/insults (64.5%), threats (59.6%), and bullying/mobbing (14.4%). The aggressor was most frequently a patient (57.0%) or a relative (33.5%), male (71.2%). After the violence, 40.6% and 30.0% respectively discussed it with a colleague or a family member/friend, 26.6% reported the incident to their supervisor, and 24.5% did not report the event. According to the respondents’ opinions, episodes of violence increased during the pandemic (71.6%). Nearly half of the participants (47.7%) believed that the violence was related to factors linked to the pandemic. Furthermore, 69.9% of participants noted a deterioration in doctor-patient communication during the pandemic. The data collected can provide useful information for the prevention and management of workplace violence against HCWs.
P-245 MENTAL HEALTH OF TUNISIAN HEALTHCARE WORKERS DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC: A COMPARATIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY
Authors: Machghoul Samia , Merchaoui Irtyah , Hayouni Marouen , Chaari Neila , Charfeddine Amri , Akrout Moahamed , Henchi Adnene , Rassas Ines 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Patients with COVID-19 could present adverse psychological outcomes. Health care workers (HCW) are at high risk of contracting COVID-19 and therefore prone to such outcomes. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and determinants of negative mental outcomes of COVID-19 in HCW.

Methods
A comparative cross-sectional study in a tertiary hospital in Tunisia among cases of COVID-19 diagnosed in HCW between January 15 and February 15 2021 and a control group. We adopted the professional quality of life, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale and the post-traumatic stress disorder checklist.

Results
A total of 226 HCW were included. High rates of burnout (80.71%) and STS (62.38%) were noted among the participants. The COVID-19 group showed lower rates of anxiety (44.25% vs 55.76%; p=0.008), depression (30.07% vs 43.34%; p=0.11) and PTSD (13.27% vs 27.43%; p = 0.006). Rates of anxiety were determined by STS. The risk of depression was higher in those with PTSD. The risk of PTSD was determined by depression, anxiety and fear of contaminating ones’ family.

Discussion
The higher risk of negative mental health outcome in the control group in our study could be explained by the ‘worst anticipated event’ theory. In fact, anticipated rather than experienced events associated with the pandemic, particularly the fear of becoming sick, multiplied the risk of psychological distress three times.

Conclusion
This study indicates that COVID-19 pandemic, rather than the virus itself, has caused heavy psychological impact among HCW. Specific strategies to prevent such outcomes in case of future health crisis are needed.
P-247 KNOWLEDGE ATTITUDES AND PRACTICES REGARDING INFECTIOUS RISKS IN LABORATORIES IN A HOSPITAL IN TUNIS
Authors: Barakati Emna , Belkahla Amira , Khouja Nihel , Ismail Saloua , Hammasi Chourouk , Bechrifa Emna , Hsinet Jihene , Benzarti Aida 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Given the diversity and seriousness of infectious risks (IR) in hospital laboratories, we undertook this study to assess knowledge, attitudes and practices of laboratory staff regarding IR.

Methods
Descriptive cross-sectional study conducted among the staff of all the laboratories at La Rabta Hospital over a two-month period in 2023.

Results
We included 63 participants, 48% of whom were laboratory technicians. Participants reported that the most frequent route of exposure to infectious agents was the mucocutaneous route (71%). In the event blood exposure accident, participants gave correct answers in the event of eye splash in 40% and percutaneous accidents in 37% of cases. Recapping needles with both hands was reported by 52% of participants. They reported not knowing circumstances leading to aerosol formation in 10% of cases and that the respiratory mask adequate for those circumstances was the FFP2 mask in 75%. Participants reported that access to technical rooms was restricted to only authorized workers in 67% and that there was a separation between clean and exposed areas in 35%. They reported that biohazardous waste containers were available at each workstation in 73% of cases and that handwashing stations were well-equipped in 41% of cases. Since their hiring, participants reported that they underwent occupational health check-ups in 48% of cases and that they received training regarding IR in 39% of cases.

Discussion
We highlighted significant knowledge gaps and poor practices related to IR among hospital laboratories staff.

Conclusion
Our results undermine the need to strengthen knowledge and reinforce prevention related to IR in hospital laboratories.
P-249 WHAT IS THE PREVALENCE OF HUMAN T-CELL LYMPHOTROPIC VIRUS-1 (HTLV-1) IN HEALTHCARE WORKERS (HCWS) WORLDWIDE? A REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE
Authors: Georgia Koopmans Imogen Emily , Chuah Chee Kuan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
HTLV-1 is a retrovirus with long latency that can cause severe disease, transmitted through breastfeeding, blood or sexual contact. It is estimated to affect 5 to 10 million people worldwide which is of growing concern, with higher prevalence in parts of Africa, the Caribbean, South America and Southern Japan. Prevalence of HTLV-1 among HCWs is important in the context of exposure prone procedures and the possible onward transmission risk to patients, as well as understanding the risk of occupational-acquired infection through body fluid exposures.

Methods
A literature search across EMBASE, MEDLINE and a hand search resulted in 23 relevant HTLV-1 prevalence abstracts. 7 abstracts were excluded due to duplication or irrelevance.

Results
Data on HTLV-1 prevalence is limited generally, but especially in HCWs. A systematic review by Stufano et al. found a 14.3% HTLV-1/2 rate among HCWs in a small investigative group in the Congo Democratic Republic. They also highlighted a US survey indicating an HTLV-1/2 rate of 0.94 per 100,000 person-years among military HCWs. Finally, Olaleye et al. found HTLV-1/2 seroprevalence rates of 3.3% amongst Nigerian HCWs.

Discussion
The scarcity of epidemiological data in some regions may underestimate worldwide HTLV-1 prevalence. Where prevalence data is available, challenges arise in extrapolating it to HCWs due to demographic differences and migration from endemic areas. The reviewed literature also demonstrates considerable variability in data sources.

Conclusion
Overall, understanding HTLV-1 prevalence among HCWs worldwide is crucial for ensuring occupational safety, preventing inadvertent transmission, and informing evidence-based infection control measures and policies.
P-253 AN IN-DEPTH EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF MEDICAL FACE MASKS WORN BY HEALTHCARE WORKERS IN IRAN DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Jahangiri Mehdi , Gharibi Vahid , Berizi Enayat , Cousins Rosanna , Tessarolo Francesco , Sheykhshoaei Morteza , Jafari Saeed , Rismanchian Masoud 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in the production of medical face masks (MFM) as an affordable solution for personal protection against the highly contagious respiratory coronavirus. However, many domestically produced masks were introduced into workplaces without going through quality control processes. The effectiveness of a large number of MFM produced in Iran was untested, so the study aimed to evaluate the performance of MFM produced in Iran that are used by healthcare workers.

Methods
The study used two laboratory setups to evaluate bacterial filtration efficiency and differential pressure according to Standard EN14683:2019, and to assess features of the melt-blown layer using scanning electron microscope images. Samples were taken from ten uncertified brands of MFM commonly used by healthcare workers and five certified brands of MFM.

Results
The quality factor of the Reference Sample was nearly twice as high as that of the Test Sample. There was a positive correlation between bacterial filtration efficiency and quality factor and melt-blown layer grammage, and a negative correlation between fiber diameter and porosity.

Discussion
There was a high positive correlation between layer grammage and quality factor.

Conclusion
The uncertified MFM provides insufficient protection for healthcare workers, as they typically do not meet the recognized Standard for use as personal protective equipment.
P-260 SICKNESS ABSENTEEISM OF HEALTHCARE WORKERS IN A TEACHING HOSPITAL IN CENTRAL TUNISIA
Authors: Omrane Amira , Rjeb Jihen , Zaoueli Sihem 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Objective
To analyze the causes and occupational risk factors of sickness absenteeism in a teaching hospital in Tunisia.

Methods
This cross-sectional study reviewed data on the sickness absenteeism of healthcare workers (HCW) in a teaching hospitals of central region of Tunisia (Mahdia) during 2022. The study included exhaustively all hospital workers. Data on socio-professionnel (Age, sexe) and occupational factors (job type, ward) and nature of sickness absenteeism were collected. Sickness absence rate (SAR) and absence frequency rate (AFR) in the study period were calculated. Data was gathered from the computerized records of humain ressources.

Results
During 2022, 775 HCW were on sick leave (64%). During the study period, 2298 sick leave were treated giving a SAR and AFR were 9.12% and 1.08%, respectively. This study included predominantly women (79.29%) aged more than 35 years (79.9%). Nurses accounted for 42.44% of hospital staff. Ordinary sick leaves accounted for 89.7%. HCW worked predominately in Medical departmentsin 21.94%. The multivariate analysis revealed that only the nature of sick leave and Specialty of the prescribing physician were found to be higher risk factors of sick leave duration with an odd ratio respectively of 1.13 and 13.83 (CI= [0.138-2.127], p&lt;0.026) and CI= [13.086-14.575], p&lt;0.000).

Discussion and conclusion
This study provides valuable insights into the patterns of sickness absence among HCW in Tunisia, shedding light on an important issue within the healthcare sector. The findings underscore the significant prevalence of sickness absenteeism, particularly among nurses. Further research is needed to delve deeper into the determinants and consequences of sickness absence among HCW.
P-261 CARING FOR THE CARER - HEALTH CARE WORKERS EXPOSURE TO PSYCHOSOCIAL HAZARDS IN THE WORKPLACE - A SCOPING REVIEW
Authors: Bester Michelle 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Exposure to psychosocial hazards in the workplace is linked to work related health complaints, loss of productivity, and loss of performance. The World Health Organization and the European Agency for Health and Safety at Work reported that psychosocial hazards affects workers to occupational hazards that put them at risk of chronic fatigue; physical and psychological violence and harassment at work. Psychosocial hazards has have negative effects on the mental and physical well-being of health practitioners. The objective of the review is to determine what psychosocial hazards health care workers are exposed to in their daily work and how it affects their physical and mental wellbeing within and outside the workplace.

Methods
The search for relevant studies included databases such as CINAHL, Medline, and Ebscohost from 2017 to 2022. The review process was be guided by a predefined protocol. Articles were screened for eligibility as recommended by the Joanna Briggs institute for scoping reviews. Full review and English studies were included.

Results and discussion
Insufficient occupational health and safety measures can result in high rates of absenteeism, reduced productivity and diminished quality of care. Mental health issues can contribute to reduced performance, and increased possibility of human error, which may pose a threat to both health workers and patient safety.

Conclusion
Identification and management of psychosocial hazards in the workplace, will protect the health, safety and well-being of health workers.
P-264 EXPLORING PROFESSIONAL QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG NURSES: A STUDY IN TUNISIAN UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS
Authors: Sellami Imen , Hammami Kaouthar Jmal , Chaari Abdelaziz , Triki Mohamed , Jerbi Samira , Rmadi Nehla , Haddar Aicha , Ghrab Mohamed Anis , Masmoudi Mohamed Larbi , Hajjaji Mounira 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The professional quality of life experienced by nurses plays a vital role in their well-being and the care they provide. This study aims to explore professional quality of life among nurses.

Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional study from March to May 2023 among 128 nurses from the University Hospitals of Sfax. We used an anonymous self-questionnaire, the Professional Quality of life, for data collection.

Results
The average age of the nurses was 41 years, with 53.9% being male. Only 2.3% of the nurses considered their working conditions to be good. A majority reported working under high levels of stress, accounting for 57% of the cases. High levels of compassion satisfaction were positively correlated with a fixed work schedule, good health status, and perceiving high levels of stress and negatively with age and professional experience. Additionally, all nurses had a moderate level of burnout. A low level of secondary traumatic stress was correlated with professional experience of less than 20 years, good health status, perceiving moderate to high levels of stress at work, and moderate job satisfaction.

Discussion
There are complex connections between nurses’ professional quality of life and various influencing factors. Concerns arise from poor perceptions of working conditions and high stress levels. Positive links between compassion satisfaction and specific factors suggest ways to enhance well-being.

Conclusion
The study uncovers insights into the professional quality of life of nurses. Factors such as working conditions, stress, and satisfaction are highlighted, suggesting strategies to enhance well-being by addressing stressors and promoting compassion satisfaction.