bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
P-257 THE EFFECT OF OCCUPATIONAL MORAL INJURY ON THE MENTAL HEALTH OF HEALTH CARE WORKERS
Authors: Troper Kamila , Mestre Pedro Miguel , Pinela Ana Sofia , Martinho Teresa 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The expression moral injury can be found in the literature as “disruption in an individual’s confidence and expectations about one’s own or others’ motivation or capacity to behave in a just and ethical manner”. As a concept, moral injury first appeared in the literature in the 1990s in the context of combat and war circumstances. However, it has recently been brought up more broadly in the healthcare context. The term is often associated with strong moral emotions related to the event, including guilt, anger and disgust. Can still lead to distress and psychological difficulties.

Methods
Systematic literature review using the PubMed, SCIELO, RESEARCHGATE databases with the descriptors: Occupational Moral Injury + Mental Health + Healthcare professionals. Studies published between 2000 and 2023 in Portuguese, English and Spanish

Results
Of the 354 studies initially found in the cited databases, a sample of 33 studies was reached that matched the election criteria. A final sample of 16 studies was defined, mainly articles. Studies purely epidemiological or non related to health professionals were excluded.

Discussion
Certain occupational groups may be at risk of exposure to work-related morally injurious events, including first responders, journalists and armed forces personnel.

Conclusion
Morally injurious experiences include those in which the individual perpetuates, fails to prevent, bears witness to, or learns about acts that transgress deeply held moral beliefs and experiences. Moral injury can contribute to inner conflict and emotional distress and the emergence of guilt, shame, and anxiety is facilitated by idiographic factors such as shame proneness and/or neuroticism.
P-263 OCCUPATIONAL INJURY FROM PATIENT HANDLING AND WORKPLACE VIOLENCE AT RESIDENTIAL DISABILITY AND MENTAL HEALTH FACILITIES: AN ANALYSIS OF WORKERS’ COMPENSATION DATA
Authors: Moskowitz Adam , Schofield Katherine 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Residential facilities for disability, mental health, and substance abuse, colloquially known as “group homes” in the United States, have similar occupational hazards to more traditional healthcare settings. However, many US policies intended to protect the safety of healthcare workers exclude group homes. This study aims to assess occupational injury in group homes from patient-handling and mobility activities (SPHM) and workplace violence (WV), two widely recognized hazards to healthcare worker safety.

Methods
Descriptions of 4,364 workers’ compensation claims from 306 employers in the group home industry were coded by investigators for injuries connected to SPHM, WV, or both. Log-binomial and log-linear regression were used to predict risk of severe injury resulting from SPH and WV. Injury severity was determined by claim cost and lost work time.

Results
Nearly half of all analyzed claims involved physical contact between a worker and a group home resident. The 1,281 claims associated with SPH were more likely to result in lost work time and higher mean costs than the average injury claim. The 1,487 claims associated with WV were less likely to result in lost work time and had lower associated mean costs than the average injury claim.

Discussion
SPH and WV are worryingly prevalent in group homes, and associated injuries may be severe, especially for SPHM. Despite WV’s decreased risk of severe injury in this study’s measures, there may be more adverse effects on workers not captured in workers’ compensation data.

Conclusion
Policymakers should adopt broader definitions of healthcare settings when regulating occupational hazards like SPH and WV.
P-265 ECONOMIC IMPACT OF PREVENTABLE OCCUPATIONAL BLOOD EXPOSURES IN A TUNISIAN HOSPITAL
Authors: Triki Amira , Ayadi Abir , Jlassi Olfa , Ayari Sihem , Magroun Imene 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Occupational Blood Exposures (OBEs) present is a significant public health concern within healthcare settings. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated costs of OBEs in a hospital.

Methods
A cross sectional retrospective study was conducted from July 2015 to June 2023. It included all healthcare workers (HCWs) consulting for an OBEs at a university hospital in the capital city of Tunis.

Results
A total of 440 HCWs were included, comprising nurses (23.9%), physicians (33.9%), technicians (8.6%) and cleaning personnel (15%). Predominantly female (79%) with a sex ratio of 0.26. The average age was 31±8.9 years. Needlestick injuries were the most common incident (90.5%), followed by blood or fluid splashes (5.3%) and sharp object cuts (4.2%). Notably, 40.2% of individuals were not wearing gloves during the OBEs. Needle recapping was associated with 26.7% of accidental exposures, with an associated cost of 9066 d. Additionally, 18.3% of injuries could have been prevented through proper disposal, amounting to a cost of 22252 d. Overall, the cost range for managing reported exposures spanned 28D to 845D (average 115.44D), including check-ups and chemoprophylaxis expenses.

Discussion
This study’s results underscore the heightened risk of needlestick injuries among HCWs, which contrasts with a study conducted in a hospital in Cameroon in 2013, where blood or fluid splashes were the most reported injuries, followed by needlestick injuries.

Conclusion
Effectively managing occupational blood and body fluid exposures incurs significant costs. Preventive measures to minimize exposure incidents are crucial in mitigating these expenses.
P-268 MERCURY LEVELS IN URINE AND HAIR OF DENTISTS IN MOROCCO: A PILOT STUDY
Authors: Korachi Imane Bensouda , Duca Radu-Corneliu , Ani Maria-Mirela , Creta Matteo , Godderis Lode , Jaâfari Samir El , Filali-Zegzouti Younes 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Dentists are exposed to mercury through their handling of dental amalgam, which can accumulate in their bodies to higher levels than non-occupationally exposed individuals. This study aims to determine occupational exposure levels to mercury and its impact on the health of Moroccan dentists.

Methods
A cross-sectional study was implemented among a random sample of 34 dentists operating in private dental clinics. They were asked to fill in a self-questionnaire inquiring about socio-demographics and work environment and practices. Urine and hair samples were collected. Mercury concentration in urine (U-Hg) and hair (H-Hg) was measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Correlations between amalgam use and the biological parameters were determined using Spearman’s coefficient (non-parametric test).

Results
The mean urine concentration was 1.2 μg/g creatinine (SD = 1.5, range: 0.18-8.2). The mean hair concentration was 0.9 μ g/g (SD = 0.64, range: 0.28-2.7). Amalgam use correlated significantly with H-Hg (ρ = 64.60%; p-value &lt; 0.001) and with U-Hg (ρ = 37.50%; p-value &lt; 0.03).

Discussion
The higher correlation with H-Hg compared to U-Hg implicitly suggests the impact of chronic exposure to this metal in dentists of our study area. The U-Hg in our sample was below the Occupational Biological Exposure Indice for Mercury. U-Hg and H-Hg were also lower than what has been reported in other studies.

Conclusion
To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to identify mercury levels in urine and hair of Moroccan dentists. Further investigation is needed to assess the impact of this exposure on their health
P-270 POST COVID SYNDROME IN HEALTH CARE WORKERS
Authors: Dallagi Amani , Hsinet Jihen , Ismail Saloua , Khouja Nihel , Bechrifa Emna , Fatma Naourez Ben , Belkahla Amira , Benzarti Aida 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Post COVID syndrome (PCS) is characterized by polymorphous symptoms of variable duration. The evolution of these symptoms remains unpredictable. Our aim is to assess the prevalence of PCS in healthcare workers (HCW) who have contracted COVID-19 and to study the evolution of persistent symptoms.

Methods
Cross-sectional descriptive study of HCW at Rabta Hospital who contracted COVID-19 between October 2020 and May 2021. Patients without symptoms when returning to work were not included. Data concerning PCS were collected by telephone contact in June 2021.

Results
Of the 200 patients included, 170 (85%) completed the questionnaire. Ninety HCW (52.9%) had developed PCS. The population was predominantly female (82.2%), with a mean age of 43.07±10.15 years. Persistent symptoms were mainly exertional dyspnea (33.3%), fatigue (28.9%), memory impairment (11.1%), palpitations (7.8%) and arthralgia (6.7%). A statistically significant relationship was found between the severe form and the onset of PCS (p=0.01). Progression was characterized by the persistence of at least one of the symptoms affecting 31 patients (38%). The persistent symptoms were mainly neuropsychological disorders (65%) requiring psychiatric treatment (29%), exertional dyspnea (61%) requiring pulmonary treatment (26%).

Discussion
Since the end of the first epidemic wave in May 2020, the persistence of symptoms several weeks or months after the first manifestations has been described in over 20% of patients after 5 weeks or more, and in over 10% of patients after 3 months. Despite the still-limited follow-up, the evolution is generally towards improvement.

Conclusion
Some patients with PCS should have access to multidisciplinary consultations for better management.
P-273 COVID-19, LONG-COVID AND RETURN-TO-WORK: RESULTS OF A SURVEY FOR OCCUPATIONAL PHYSICIANS FROM AN ITALIAN REGION
Authors: Modenese Alberto , Gobba Fabriziomaria 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The impact of long-COVID on workers’ health as well as the issues related to return-to-work (RTW) and COVID-19 are still little known. We present the results of an analysis of expert opinions on these problems from Italian occupational physicians (OP).

Methods
A 24-items questionnaire was administered in spring 2023 to a sample of OP from Emilia-Romagna. The survey investigates long-COVID symptoms, RTW and COVID-19 issues experienced by the workers followed by the OP.

Results
Sixty-two OP answered: the 90% provided health surveillance (HS) to workers with long-COVID. The 33% thinks that long-COVID is more frequent among females, while 10% among males. The 27% reported long-COVID as associated with age-range 51-60 years. The main long-COVID symptoms were asthenia for the 34% of OP, breathless (31%) and memory/conentration problems (15%). Considering RTW, for the 47% of the OP the most frequent problem was represented by workers with health conditions of frailty with respect to COVID-19 risk. The 78% of the OP indicated specific limitations on the fitness to work of subjects undergoing HS at a RTW occasion.

Discussion
Our data confirm the relevance of the issues related to long-COVID symptoms in workers and RTW after COVID-19, in particular for workers with frailty conditions. The vast majority of OP indicated limitations for the fitness to work of these workers. The most frequent long-COVID symptom was asthenia.

Conclusion
After the end of the emergency phase of the pandemic, COVID-19 is still a relevant occupational issue in Italy, with an important impact in terms of both RTW and long-COVID.
P-274 THE COST OF ABSENTEEISM DUE TO COVID-19 IN HEALTHCARE WORKERS IN A PUBLIC HOSPITAL IN CENTRAL TUNISIA
Authors: Omrane Amira , Smida Selma , Kheder Asma , Belhadj Noura , Bouzgarrou Lamia , Khalfallah Taoufik 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction and Objective
To estimate the cost of absenteeism due to COVID-19 among Tahar Sfar University Hospital Health care workers (HCWs) in Mahdia, Tunisia.

Methods
This cross-sectional study was carried out on HCWs, since the beginning of the first coronavirus wave. To acheive this study, we used a numeric database of HCWs diagnosed with COVID-19 from September to July 2022 collected by the Occupational Medicine Department with the assistance of Humain Ressource Department. This database included the sociodemographic and professional characteristics as well as and all COVID-19 sick leave durations of HCWs with COVID-19 confirmed by a positive Rt-PCR or antigen rapid testing.

Results
Since the beginning of the pandemic, 1233 cases of infection and reinfection by the COVID-19 among HCWs, have been detected and reported as occupational diseases. The average age was 37.82±9.9 years [23-65 years]. The rate of infections entitling a sick leave was the highest (31.3%) among doctors, followed by nurses, (30.8%) working in COVID-19 department in 40.6%. Incidences of occupational COVID-19 infections resulted in a loss of 10 278 working days, with an average duration of 8.34±4.68 days [5-50 days]. The multivariate analysis revealed that the age and function impact absenteeism (OR=198.73 and -71.35 respectively). The estimated cost of absenteeism was 156,000 euros.

Discussions and Conclusions
HCWs were significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Absenteeism in healthcare is a complex problem that requires a comprehensive approach. HCWs need to work with employees to understand the factors that contribute to absenteeism and take effective measures to cope with this issue.
P-277 THE IMPACT OF RAPID ACCESS TO OCCUPATIONAL PHYSIOTHERAPY FOR HEALTHCARE WORKERS WITH MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS
Authors: O’Neill Mary-Teresa , Jones Victoria , Reid Alex 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) remain the 2nd most common reason for days lost to work-related ill health accounting for 8.9 million days lost in the UK in 2019-2020.1 Studies have shown that early intervention by occupational physiotherapy improved clinical symptoms and work performance and reduced absenteeism and presenteeism.2,3 The impact of a rapid access occupational physiotherapy service for hospital employees presenting with MSDs either directly attributable to work or impacting upon work was assessed.

Method
A retrospective chart review was completed on 100 employees referred to physiotherapy following occupational health review. Information collected included demographics, presenting complaints, work injuries, quantity of sessions, sick leave, phased return, workplace modifications and treatment response.

Results
42% of employees had upper limb MSDs followed by neck/back (38%) and lower limb (20%) MSDs. 79% worked in roles with significant manual handling duties. 31% reported a work-related injury and 83% described symptoms exacerbated by work. 70% were reviewed within 2 weeks with 48% requiring 1-2 sessions (mean 2.86). 34% took sick leave with a mean of 62 days (range 1-240). 94% successfully returned to work; 50% required workplace modifications & 21% required phased returns. 83% reported improvement or resolution of symptoms.

Discussion
Timely access to occupational physiotherapy combined with workplace modifications and phased returns, optimized overall recovery and facilitated the majority of employees to remain at work or successfully return to work.

Conclusion
Given the physical nature of healthcare roles, early occupational support for MSDs is essential to maintain a healthy workforce, reduce sick leave and improve performance in the workplace.
P-278 OCCUPATIONAL BIOLOGICAL RISK PERCEPTION AND KNOWLEDGE AMONG ITALIAN HEALTHCARE PERSONNEL
Authors: Tomao Paola , Vonesch Nicoletta , Renzi Simona Di , Tecco Cristina Di , Persechino Benedetta 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The Covid-19 pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on the health sector worldwide, with health and safety effects in workers. This survey aims to investigate risk perception and knowledge of occupational safety and health protection regulations in Italian healthcare personnel.

Methods
A survey was conducted through self-administered, online questionnaires in health care workers in 2023. Data on the following themes were collected: socio-demographic and occupational information, procedures/information and risk training, perception of risk and injury, preventive behaviour, psychosocial and psychological variables, sleep disorders and job satisfaction.

Results
This study involved 652 workers, including nurses (44.0%), physicians (23%), social health workers (9%), health technicians (11%) and others (13%). Most respondents were female (74.0%) and the predominant age group was 40–60 years. The most frequent length of service was &gt;15 years (38.0%), with 39%, 13% and 48% reporting from the medical, surgical and services areas respectively. More than half of the respondents were aware of the biological risk at workplace and conscious of hazards; most of them had been vaccinated against hepatitis B, Covid-19, influenza, measles.

Discussion
The study showed that health care workers might be exposed to biological agents at various levels, depending on the specific tasks. Information and training are essential to address the correct behaviours of workers and help them to recognise and assess the risks.

Conclusion
Nonetheless, the prevention of needlestick and sharps injuries through the implementation of specific Directives in many European countries and the experience gained from the pandemic have brought important improvements in safety against biological risk.
O-150 TREATMENT PATHWAYS FOR OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH PROBLEMS AMONG INFORMAL AUTOMOBILE ARTISANS IN NIGERIA
Authors: Afolabi Funmilayo Juliana 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Occupational health problems (OHPs) are a major concern in developing countries, especially for informal workers. This study examines how informal automobile artisans in Nigeria treat OHPs and how they choose their ‘pathway’ for health care providers. It focuses on their choice between orthodox and traditional medicine, self-care and professional care, and private and public healthcare providers.

Method
This study purposively collected data from 43 informal automobile artisans in Osun State, Nigeria, using an interpretive approach. Specifically, in-depth interviews were used to collect the data. Thematic analysis was done using MAXQDA 2020 software.

Results
It shows that the treatment sought depends on the type, the severity, and the perceived cause of the OHP. Self-care is used for treating minor OHPs, while professional care is sought for serious/very serious OHPs. Moreover, the artisans prefer private healthcare providers to public healthcare providers in providing healthcare for serious OHPs. The artisans’ rational and non-rational explanations of the causes of OHPs usually determined the endpoint of treatment.

Discussion
The study revealed some determinants of the pathway to healthcare. They are characteristics of the subject (the artisans), characteristics of the disorder (the severity and the perceived cause of the OHP), and characteristics of the health service (expected income, proximity, perceived quality of treatment, and the potency of the medicine).

Conclusion
To improve the health condition of workers in the sector, policymakers and artisanal associations should be aware of the considerations that informed the artisans’ choices on how to treat OHP.
O-151 MANAGING PSYCHOSOCIAL RISKS IN EUROPEAN MICRO AND SMALL ENTERPRISES – EVIDENCE FROM THE EUROPEAN SURVEY OF ENTERPRISES ON NEW AND EMERGING RISKS (ESENER)
Authors: Irastorza Xabier 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Through the EU Framework Directive (89/391) European employers are obliged to assess and eliminate/reduce any risk to workers’ safety and health. The awareness on the need to manage psychosocial risks (PSR) as part of this obligation has increased recently and several countries have modified their legislation, making the management of PSR a part of OSH.

Methods
EU-OSHA’s ESENER survey provides a comparative picture of how PSR are managed across Europe, identifying gaps and support needs.

Results
Over 45,000 public and private establishments employing at least five people and across all sectors are interviewed in over 30 European countries. ESENER (third wave in 2019) shows a large share of establishments reporting at least one PSR factor but significantly fewer reporting measures in place to deal with them. The level of PSR management varies greatly by country, sector and establishment size. Management and worker representatives of 240 micro and small enterprises surveyed in ESENER were interviewed again in-depth in 2021 on their approach to managing PSR.

Discussion
National legislative developments play an important role when managing PSR, while at the workplace level, management leadership and worker representation are key. COVID-19 has had a significant impact, increasing PSR in many ways, while, at the same time, it has contributed to raising awareness of mental health, with increasing discussions on the topic.

Conclusion
The presentation will explore trends of reported PSR at work and measures to deal with them, as well as ways for policy makers, social partners and practitioners to support workplaces and ensure adequate worker protection and business sustainability.
O-154 ENHANCING WORK PROCESSES AND HEALTH SAFETY IN INDIA’S INFORMAL SECTORS: AN ERGONOMIC INTERVENTION STUDY
Authors: Ghosh Tirthankar 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
India’s informal sector accommodates a significant portion of the workforce, necessitating a focus on enhancing work processes for improved health and safety outcomes. This study aims to address this imperative by investigating ergonomic interventions within distinct informal sectors.

Methods
A sample of 300 male workers was purposely selected from West Bengal, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha, representing sand core workers, goldsmiths, and carpenters. Utilizing a modified Nordic questionnaire, comprehensive discomfort assessments were conducted. Analysis of workspace dimensions and body postures was executed to evaluate work-related stress. Ergonomic interventions, guided by worker input, were introduced and post-intervention interviews were carried out.

Results
Findings unveiled that roles in all three sectors entail uncomfortable postures, escalating musculoskeletal disorder risks, notably within the lower back. Existing processes within these sectors revealed redundant steps and awkward postures, potentially leading to occupational hazards. Various ergonomic interventions were implemented to mitigate these concerns, potentially augmenting productivity, health, and safety among informal laborers.

Discussion
The study’s outcomes underscore the pressing need for ergonomic interventions in informal sectors to alleviate health risks associated with suboptimal work conditions. The implemented changes hold promise for enhancing worker well-being and operational efficiency.

Conclusion
The study highlights the importance of ergonomic adaptations in informal sectors. The modifications, such as ergonomic tools and adjusted workstations, hold the potential to enhance worker safety and productivity. These results emphasize the significance of ongoing efforts to ameliorate work conditions within India’s informal workforce, fostering improved livelihoods and overall societal progress.