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Hoy — Diciembre 16th 2025Tus fuentes RSS

Development and validation of a case identification algorithm for hand trauma patients using health administrative data and the epidemiology of hand trauma in a universal healthcare system

Por: Wong · C. R. · Tu · K. · Hernandez · A. · Urbach · D. R. · Witiw · C. · Hansen · B. · Ko · A. · Tsai · P. · Baltzer · H.
Objectives

Our primary objectives were (1) to develop and validate an administrative data algorithm for the identification of hand trauma cases using clinical diagnoses documented in medical records as the reference standard and (2) to estimate the incidence of hand trauma in a universal public healthcare system from 1993 to 2023 using a population-based research cohort constructed using a validated case identification algorithm.

Design

A population-based retrospective validation study.

Setting

Ontario, Canada, from 2022 to 2023 (validation) and from 1993 to 2023 (estimation).

Participants

Our reference standard was the known hand trauma status of 301 patients (N=147 with hand trauma) who presented to an urban tertiary-care hand trauma centre in Toronto, Ontario.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

(1) The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values of the optimal algorithm to identify hand trauma using provincial health administrative data and (2) age-standardised and sex-standardised incidence rates of hand trauma among men and women, by age, and by area of patient residence.

Results

The optimal algorithm had a sensitivity of 73.8% (95% CI 66.6% to 81.0%), specificity of 80.1% (95% CI 73.8% to 86.5%), positive predictive value of 78.1% (95% CI 71.2% to 85.0%) and negative predictive value of 76.1% (95% CI 69.5% to 82.7%). Over the study period, the age-standardised and sex-standardised incidence of hand trauma increased from 384 to 530 per 100 000. The greatest increase was observed in males and individuals aged 0–19 and 80+, with higher incidence rates in Southern compared with Northern Ontario.

Conclusions

Our algorithm enabled identification of hand trauma cases using health administrative data suitable for population-level surveillance and health services research, revealing a rising burden of hand trauma from 1993 to 2023. These findings can support improved surveillance, resource allocation and care delivery for this public health problem.

AnteayerTus fuentes RSS

Barriers and facilitators to performing benign paroxysmal positional vertigo manoeuvres among primary care physicians in Barcelona: a qualitative study

Objective

To explore the barriers and facilitators in adherence to the guidelines in the management of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo from the perspective of primary care physicians.

Design

Qualitative study using focus groups.

Setting

L’Hospitalet del Llobregat (Barcelona), Spain.

Study design

Qualitative study using focus groups. Structured 90 min focus groups were conducted until data saturation was reached. Each session included a moderator and an observer from the research team. Sessions were transcribed and thematically analysed by three independent researchers.

Participants

Purposeful sampling was used to form four groups of 4–10 participants, selected by sex, age, years of experience and primary care team (PCT). Participants were recruited between January and February 2023.

Results

A total of 34 family physicians belonging to four PCTs participated in the study. The main barriers identified were a lack of time, negative initial experiences, a fear of harming patients (especially older adults), difficulty in nystagmus visualisation and challenges in managing patient expectations, as many preferred medication over physical manoeuvres. Facilitators included potential time savings from effective early management, the value of initial practical training with periodic refreshers, access to expert consultants for case discussions and the availability of digital tools, such as tutorials, videos and aids for nystagmus interpretation.

Conclusion

Health systems should invest in protected time for history-taking and physical examination, and in regular, updated training for primary care professionals. This could improve vertigo management and reduce unnecessary investigations and medications, ultimately benefiting both patients and the healthcare system.

Understanding smartphone use patterns in higher education: A latent class approach to behavioral and health risk typologies

by Ramón Ventura Roque Hernández, Rolando Salazar Hernandez, Adán López Mendoza

Introduction

The widespread use of smartphones among university students has raised concern because of their potential effects and the need to detect profiles of problematic use. This study aimed to identify, characterize and differentiate different profiles of smartphone users in a sample of university students on the basis of variables such as use, nomophobia, risk and sociodemographic characteristics.

Methods

A total of 681 university students participated. A total of 681 university students participated in this study. The sample was recruited using a non-probabilistic, convenience sampling method. Latent class analysis -LCA- was performed to identify profiles from variables that included smartphone use patterns such as daily hours, messaging, social networks, browsing, history of technology adoption, situational use, NMPQ nomophobia questionnaire -a scale designed to assess the fear of being without a smartphone-, and reported consequences such as accidents, visual or musculoskeletal problems. The resulting classes were compared in subsequent analyses using chi-square tests for categorical variables and Mann‒Whitney U tests for ordinal variables.

Results

LCA revealed two clearly differentiated user profiles. Class 1 (n = 348) grouped users with moderate use and less exposure to risks and was characterized by shorter daily use of smartphones (mean = 5.46 hours), significantly lower scores on the total scale of nomophobia (mean NMPQ = 65.4 out of 140 possible points, moderate level), a lower frequency of accidents reported due to mobile use and lower reports of visual and musculoskeletal health problems. Class 2 (n = 333) grouped users with high digital involvement and multiple vulnerabilities and showed a significantly more intensive use pattern (mean = 11.01 hours per day), higher levels of nomophobia (mean NMPQ = 74.3 out of 140 possible points, moderate level), and a higher frequency of accidents and major visual and musculoskeletal health problems.

Conclusion

While both groups of undergraduate students could benefit from awareness and training programs, interventions could be differentiated and designed to mitigate the risks associated with problematic smartphone use. These findings provide evidence for higher education institutions and health professionals in the development of programs aimed at promoting digital well-being among university students.

Comparing emergency department reattendance and health and social-related vulnerability between people experiencing homelessness and people living in stable housing in Australia: a prospective cohort study

Por: Currie · J. · Vasquez-Hernandez · A. · Jones · L.
Objectives

Few studies have quantified the vulnerability of people experiencing homelessness and its association with emergency department (ED) reattendances. The study objectives were to identify the health and social-related vulnerability, comorbidities and reattendance to an ED within 28 days, of people experiencing homelessness and people living in stable housing.

Design

Prospective cohort study, 28 September 2023 to 12 October 2023.

Setting

Metropolitan ED in an inner-city public hospital.

Participants

Eligible participants were those who attended the ED between 8am and 5pm during the 2 week study period (2023), those aged 18 years and over and able to provide informed consent, and those deemed well enough to participate.

Intervention

The homeless health access to care tool (HHACT) assesses a person’s unmet needs and quantifies their level of health and social-related vulnerability (low, moderate, high). The HHACT was applied to each participant. Routinely collected administrative data was used to identify participant demographics and ED usage on the day of study enrolment and any ED reattendance within 28 days.

Main outcomes and measures

Outcome measures were the identification of participants’ level of health and social-related vulnerability and its relationship to ED reattendance.

Results

Of the 300 ED participants, 38 (12.6%) were experiencing homelessness. There was a greater than twofold increase in odds of 28-day ED reattendance for participants experiencing homelessness (OR=2.93, CI 1.29 to 6.36; p=0.008) or had moderate to high vulnerability scores (participants living in stable housing and participants homeless) (OR=2.67, CI 1.29 to 5.36; p=0.007). Compared with participants in stable housing, prevalence of comorbidities among participants experiencing homelessness was greater regarding mental health challenges (65.8% vs 21.8%); three or more physical health conditions (36.8% vs 13%) and greater alcohol and other drug use (36.8% vs 17.2%).

Conclusion and relevance

The high ED reattendance suggests that people experiencing homelessness are not being adequately screened for unmet needs on their first presentation. Comprehensive screening using the HHACT may enhance the identification of the risk of reattendance and provide opportunities to intervene through targeted responses, such as integrated care pathways. While EDs are not designed to address the multifaceted needs of people experiencing homelessness, there is an urgent need to consider how to optimise this population’s access to appropriate care.

Genitourinary syndrome of menopause induced by breast cancer treatments: a randomised clinical trial protocol comparing multimodal pelvic floor physiotherapy and fractional CO2 laser therapy (PILME study)

Introduction

Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a prevalent condition among breast cancer survivors, often exacerbated by oncological treatments. Hormonal therapies are typically contraindicated in this population, necessitating effective non-hormonal interventions.

Methods and analysis

This randomised controlled trial aims to compare the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of multimodal pelvic floor physiotherapy—comprising pelvic floor muscle training, non-ablative radiofrequency, therapeutic pelvic health education and the use of vaginal moisturisers—versus fractional CO2 laser therapy combined with vaginal moisturisers in alleviating GSM symptoms in breast cancer survivors. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two intervention groups. Primary outcomes include measures of sexual function (assessed by the Female Sexual Function Index), subjective pelvic perineal pain intensity (measured with a 100 mm Visual Analogue Scale) and health-related quality of life (assessed by the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Breast), assessed at baseline, post-intervention and at 3, 6 and 12 months of follow-up. Statistical analyses will be conducted to evaluate the clinical efficacy and cost-effectiveness of the interventions.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol has been approved by the Ethics and Health Research Committee of the University of Alcalá (Reference: CEIP/2024/1/012). All participants will provide informed consent prior to inclusion in the study. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations, and by engaging with patient associations and survivor groups through tailored materials.

Trial registration number

NCT06721936.

A Comprehensive Assessment of the Environmental Impact of Different Infant Feeding Types: The Observational Study GREEN MOTHER

ABSTRACT

Aim(s)

To observe and compare the environmental impacts of different types of infant feeding, considering the use of formula, infant feeding accessories, potentially increased maternal dietary intake during breastfeeding (BF) and food consumption habits.

Design

An observational cross-sectional multicentre study conducted in the Barcelona Metropolitan Area of the Catalan Institute of Health.

Methods

Data were collected from 419 postpartum women on infant feeding type (formula milk and accessories), maternal dietary intake (24-h register) and food consumption habits from November 2022 to April 2023. The environmental impacts (climate change (CC), water consumption and water scarcity) of the infant feeding types and maternal diet were calculated using the IPCC, ReCiPE and AWARE indicators, respectively. The differences in impacts were calculated by Kruskal–Wallis test.

Results

Significant differences for the three environmental impacts were observed. The CC impact of formula milk and feeding accessories was 0.01 kg CO2eq for exclusive BF, 1.55 kg CO2eq for mixed feeding and 4.98 kg CO2eq for formula feeding. While BF mothers consumed an extra 238 kcal, no significant differences were found related to maternal diet across feeding types.

Conclusion

Exclusive BF was the most sustainable type of infant feeding, considering formula and infant feeding accessories. In our study, the difference between the impacts of BF and non-BF mothers' diet was insignificant.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Offer informative and educational support for midwives and other healthcare professionals on BF and a healthy, sustainable diet to transfer this knowledge to the general public.

Impact

Raise the general public's awareness about BF and a healthy, sustainable diet. To reduce environmental impacts through behavioural changes.

Reporting Method

STROBE.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients of the Catalan Health Service reviewed the content of the data collection tools.

Trial Registration: (for the whole GREEN MOTHER project): NCT05729581 (https://clinicaltrials.gov)

Understanding the Second Year of the COVID‐19 Pandemic From a Nursing Perspective: A Multi‐Country Descriptive Study

ABSTRACT

Aim(s)

To determine common and distinct factors experienced by nurses working in acute care settings during the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design

An online qualitative descriptive study with eight open-ended questions and a comprehensive demographic profile administered via the Qualtrics XM survey software.

Methods

Thirteen countries formed teams and led online data collection in their respective countries through various approaches. The data collection period occurred between January 1, 2021, and February 28, 2022. Descriptive thematic analysis was conducted in English (with translation), Spanish, and Korean to analyse the qualitative data. Descriptive statistics summarised the responses to the demographic profile.

Results

Worldwide, a final sample size of n = 1814 produced 6483 qualitative data points for analysis. The results identified ongoing occupational risk factors for nurses during the pandemic's second year, including mental health issues, yet showed some improvements in access to personal protective equipment and resources. Four themes emerged from the qualitative analysis, highlighting role changes, living states, and insights into the implementation of pandemic response measures.

Conclusion

Despite individual occupational risks nurses described, structural factors associated with healthcare delivery produced common nursing experiences during the pandemic. Additionally, at least two distinct stages of pandemic response implementation were demarcated by treatment availability (e.g., vaccine development).

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

There is potential for common pandemic response policies for nurses, centered on specific factors, such as the increased provision of mental health support services by healthcare organisations.

Impact

This study helped determine the common and distinct work experiences during the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nurses simultaneously experienced increased workload, role changes, perpetual fear and fatigue, daily hostility, and chaos in the implementation of pandemic responses. The results will impact nurses and those they serve along with future pandemic response policies.

Reporting Method

We have adhered to the SRQR reporting guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study did not include patient or public involvement in its design, conduct, or reporting.

Nursing students’ experience and training in healthcare aid during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Spain

Background

During the COVID-19 pandemic health crisis, in some countries such as Spain, nursing students have offered to provide health assistance, but the role they have played, their degree of preparedness to face the situation, and what must be improved in their training to be ready for these situations is unknown.

Objective

Describe the experience and perceptions of students of the Nursing university degree during their participation as health support in the COVID-19 health crisis in Spain.

Design

We conducted a cross-sectional survey study.

Method

503 students enrolled in the 4th course of the Nursing degree in Spain during the months of March and April 2020. An online questionnaire was developed, based on a pilot study and distributed through the Nursing Association, students’ unions and students’ associations. Variables were used to describe their participation, degree of preparedness and training needs to determine how to improve training through descriptive statistics, as well as nonparametric tests to analyse the relationship between training and degree of preparedness nursing students. Results are reported according to the STROBE Statement.

Results

73.2% (368) of students offered to participate in healthcare aid, of which 225 were actively involved. 27.8% carried out nursing tasks without supervision, and 47.7% assisted COVID-19 patients as any other nurse. Only 3.4% felt very prepared to work in the field of intensive care, finding that those students who perceived a higher degree of preparedness had received previous training in personal protective equipment and mechanical ventilation (p < 0.005). The highest scores for training activities that may improve their preparedness were simulations to improve levels of anxiety and stress when managing critical patients, simulation in ventilatory support and mandatory practices in services where ventilators are used.

Conclusions

Although three out of four students were willing to provide health assistance, they recognise that they were not specially prepared in the field of intensive care and demand training with simulation to improve anxiety and stress levels in the management of critical patients and simulation in ventilatory support.

Relevance to clinical practice

Students have been vital resources for our health system and society when they have been needed. It is now up to us, both teachers and health authorities, to share their efforts by implementing the necessary improvements in training and safety measures not only because these affects the health and safety of the patient, but because they will be essential parts in future pandemics.

Enhancing Breast Cancer Survivorship Care: The Role of Nurses in Post‐Treatment Follow‐Up—A Scoping Review

ABSTRACT

Aim

To examine the role of nurses in providing post-treatment follow-up care to breast cancer survivors, and to assess the impact of this care on survivors' satisfaction.

Methods

Scoping review.

Data Sources

An electronic literature search from PubMed and CINAHL databases was conducted, covering the period from 2013 to November 2023.

Results

Twenty-seven articles were included in this review, highlighting key areas in which nurses play essential roles in the provision of post-treatment care for breast cancer survivors. The identified nursing roles include the surveillance and early detection of relapses, the assessment and support of self-management for late physical and psychosocial effects of cancer, health promotion and care coordination. Regarding satisfaction, survivors reported high overall satisfaction with nursing care. However, satisfaction levels varied with regard to specific needs, particularly in managing the fear of recurrence.

Conclusions

Nurses play a fundamental role in delivering post-treatment care to breast cancer survivors. However, evidence regarding their specific contributions and survivors' satisfaction with long-term care remains limited, underscoring the need for further research to enhance care during the long-term survivorship phase.

Implications for the Profession

Consolidating the diverse roles of nurses in post-treatment care into a unified framework could support comprehensive and personalised care, addressing unmet needs. Evaluating patient satisfaction with nursing follow-up helps identify effective interventions and areas for improvement in future research.

Impact

This review analyses the diverse roles of nurses in the follow-up care of breast cancer survivors and highlights the impact of nursing care on patient satisfaction.

Reporting Method

This study adhered to the PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of an online school-based programme to reduce eating disorder risk factors in preadolescents (PRETA): protocol for a cluster-randomised controlled trial

Introduction

Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions characterised by pathological behaviours related to food intake, often accompanied by a chronic obsession with weight control. Their prevalence is increasing, with an earlier onset and greater severity among young people. Universal prevention, through multicomponent strategies that tackle modifiable risk factors, has emerged as a promising tool. This paper reports the study protocol designed to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the PRETA (Prevención de los Trastornos de la Alimentación) programme in reducing the risk of eating disorders and related modifiable risk factors among preadolescents in the school setting.

Methods and analysis

The PRETA programme will be assessed by means of an open, community-based, multicentre, controlled trial using 1:1 matched-pairs cluster randomisation at the school level. Schools in Tenerife (Spain) will be assigned to the PRETA programme or a waitlist control group. Participants include 5th- or 6th-grade students (10–13 years old), their parents and teachers. The PRETA programme is a universal, school-based, multicomponent programme designed to reduce eating-disorder risk and modifiable risk factors. Its main component is an interactive online platform called e-PRETA, complemented by training sessions for families and teachers. e-PRETA includes nine 45-minute sessions addressing risk factors, such as dietary habits, beauty standards, media literacy, self-esteem, emotional regulation and social skills. A total of 1068 children from 12 schools will participate. The primary outcome will be the risk of developing eating disorders (Children’s Eating Attitudes Test-26 item version). Secondary outcome measures are body dissatisfaction (Adapted Contour Drawing Rating Scale), eating disorder traits (Eating Disorder Inventory-2), internalisation of appearance ideals (Sociocultural Attitudes Towards Appearance Questionnaire-4) and self-esteem (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale). Outcomes will be assessed at baseline and postintervention (3 months). Additional baseline covariates such as electronic device use, parental feeding attitudes, physical activity, sleep duration and screen time will also be collected. Programme effectiveness will be analysed using generalised mixed models. Cost-effectiveness will be assessed by comparing the incremental costs associated with the implementation of the PRETA programme with its estimated effectiveness.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval has been obtained from the Ethics Committee for Research with Medicines at the University Hospital of the Canary Islands (CHUC_2021_78). Written informed consent will be obtained from the parents or legal guardians of all participants. Results will be disseminated through scientific publications and conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT06792981.

Hospitalisation and mortality trends in ANCA-associated vasculitis in Mexico: results from a nationwide retrospective registry analysis

Objective

Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) entails substantial morbidity and mortality, yet no epidemiologic evidence exists on its outcomes in Mexico. This study assessed national hospitalisations (2005–2022) and mortality (2000–2022) related to AAV using data from the General Board of Health Information.

Design

Retrospective, population-based time-trend analysis on administrative health data.

Setting

Mexico’s national hospital discharge and mortality registries, covering 1 January 2000 through 31 December 2022.

Participants

All individuals aged ≥ 15 years with a primary or secondary International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision, diagnosis of AAV recorded during hospitalisation or on death certificates nationwide.

Outcome measures

The study’s primary outcomes were the age-standardised hospitalisation and mortality rates for AAV (expressed per 100 000 population, overall and by sex), with temporal trends in both rates quantified using Joinpoint regression to calculate annual percent change (APC) and average APC (AAPC).

Results

We identified 2804 hospitalisations and 599 deaths. Females accounted for 49.7% of hospitalisations, while males represented 48.7% of deaths. Although the overall age-standardised hospitalisation rate (ASHR) and mortality rate (ASMR) AAPCs were not statistically significant, relevant trends emerged. From 2010 to 2022, ASHR declined significantly (APC: –5.2%; 95% CI –9.7, –0.5; p=0.03), whereas mortality rates remained stable from 2000 to 2022 (AAPC: +3%; 95% CI –4.6, 11.3; p=0.45). Nevertheless, mortality increased among males (APC: +6.4%; 95% CI 0.9, 12.2; p=0.02) and individuals over 45 years (APC: +8.6%; 95% CI 1.7, 16.0; p=0.02) from 2008 onwards.

Conclusions

Overall, these findings indicate no major changes in national rates but reveal a decline in hospitalisations since 2010 and a rise in mortality for specific subgroups since 2008. Targeted interventions, particularly for older adults and men, appear warranted to address this evolving disease burden. Future research should explore underlying risk factors and evaluate tailored strategies to improve clinical outcomes in AAV across Mexico.

Quality and Bias in Randomized Controlled Trials Published in Latin American Nursing Journals: A Meta‐Epidemiological Study

ABSTRACT

Introduction

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are essential for evidence-based nursing care. However, the quality of reporting and adherence to methodological standards in Latin American nursing journals remains unclear. This study evaluates the characteristics, reporting quality, and potential risk of bias of RCTs published in Latin American nursing journals.

Objective

To assess the reporting compliance and risk of bias of RCTs published in Latin American nursing journals.

Design

Meta-research study.

Methods

A comprehensive handsearch of 29 Latin American nursing journals was performed covering publications from 2000 to 2024. Identified RCTs were assessed for adherence to CONSORT reporting guidelines and evaluated for risk of bias. Outcomes were classified using the COMET taxonomy. A descriptive analysis was performed.

Results

A total of 6377 references were screened, identifying 34 eligible RCTs, most published after 2018. The median CONSORT compliance was 19 reported items (IQR 16–22). High compliance (> 90%) was observed in abstract reporting items, study objectives, and participant selection criteria. However, critical methodological features such as randomization procedures, blinding, and protocol registration showed low adherence (< 40%). Risk of bias was mostly rated as having “some concerns”, largely due to insufficient reporting. According to the COMET taxonomy, the most frequently reported outcome domains were “Delivery of care” and “Physical functioning”.

Conclusions

Reporting compliance and risk of bias of RCTs published in Latin American nursing journals presents significant gaps, particularly in key methodological domains. These shortcomings hinder transparency, reproducibility, and integration into evidence synthesis. Strengthening editorial policies and enforcing reporting standards could enhance the quality and reliability of published research in Latin American nursing journals.

The flavonoid rutin protects against imidacloprid-induced osmotic and electric disruptions in Africanized honey bees

by Juan P. Hernández, Fredy Mesa, Andre J. Riveros

Honey bees (Apis mellifera) are essential pollinators threatened by sublethal effects of pesticides such as imidacloprid, a widely used neonicotinoid that disrupts the central nervous system. However, many of the systemic effects are poorly understood, especially on the physiological homeostasis of the honey bee. We evaluated the effects of oral administration of imidacloprid and the flavonol rutin on the properties of extracellular fluid (ECF) in Apis mellifera. We measured water content, evaporation rate, electrical impedance, and ion mobility of the ECF. Our results show impacts of imidacloprid consumption, such as water content decrease, slowed evaporation, and altered electrical characteristics of the thorax segment. All these events suggest disruption of osmotic and electrochemical balance. Particularly, the rutin consumption partially mitigated the imidacloprid effects in a dose-dependent manner, enhancing detoxification. Our results point out that imidacloprid alters ionic and osmotic homeostasis beyond neural targets; and on the other hand, rutin may protect against these disruptions through physiological mechanisms beyond neuroprotection. These findings highlight new alternatives and evaluations for protecting pollinators via dietary strategies.

Association of nociceptive, neurocognitive, psychological and genetic profile on conditioned pain modulation in women with migraine: protocol for a case-control study

Introduction

Migraine is a primary headache showing a multifactorial component that includes altered pain processing, psychological/emotional problems, neurocognitive and executive function deficits, all with a possible genetic association. The aim of the current study will be to evaluate the association between sensitisation, psychological/emotional, neurocognitive and genetic profile on conditioned pain modulation (CPM) in women with migraine from a multidisciplinary perspective.

Methods and analysis

A cross-sectional observational case–control study including 90 women with chronic migraine, 90 women with episodic migraine and 90 women without migraine (as controls) will be conducted. Clinical variables (disability, pain), processing (sensitisation-associated, neuropathic-like symptoms), psychological/emotional (anxiety, depression, sleep quality, catastrophising), neurocognitive (attention), executive functions (memory, mental inhibition, speed processing) and genetics (Val158Met polymorphism rs4680 gene) will be assessed in all subjects by healthcare professionals. Subsequently, CPM will be evaluated with the cold-pressor test paradigm by assessing changes obtained in mechanical and thermal stimuli. The association of each group of variables on CPM will be analysed with multivariate analyses (OMNIBUS analysis of variance). A network model will also be created to identify those variables showing the greatest key measure of centrality with the rest of the severity indicators (strength, intermediation and closeness) to establish the potentially therapeutic targets in patients with migraine from a multidisciplinary point of view.

Ethics and dissemination

The protocol of the current study has been approved by the Ethics Committee of all involved institutions (Hospital Universitario Fundación Alcorcón 24–117, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos 010220240912024). All procedures will be conducted following the Declaration of Helsinki. Participants will be informed of the aims and procedures of the study and will receive the informed written consent which should be signed before their inclusion. Study results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and presentations at scientific meetings.

Reducing syndemics of non-communicable chronic diseases in Mayan Indigenous population through community-based participatory research: a mixed-methods study protocol

Background

Indigenous Mayan-Yucatecan communities in Mexico have a high prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity and rheumatic diseases (RMDs). According to the syndemic theory, these diseases combined with social, economic and cultural factors affect the quality of life. The aim of this protocol is to describe the methodological process to create, implement and evaluate a Syndemic-Based Care Model (SCM), using a Community Based-Participatory Research (CBPR) strategy in three Mayan-Yucatecan communities.

Methods and analysis

This is a convergent mixed-methods protocol. The quantitative component is a before-after study, and the qualitative component is an ethnographic study. The intervention will be a SCM co-constructed with Mayan communities based on their particular needs and aiming for reduction of the negative impact of NCD/RMD through a multidisciplinary approach. We will follow four phases of the CBPR: (1) situational analysis, through community censuses and semistructured interviews to understand the prevalence of NCDs and the syndemics in these communities; (2) co-construction of the elements of a SCM based on the health priorities identified by researchers, community members and healthcare workers; (3) implementation of this SCM and (4) evaluation of the SCM through (1) statistical analyses involving the construction of a syndemic index through stepwise logistic regression of the normalised and standardised key clinical, social and economic variables; interval and ratio variables will be normalised by their z-score and categorical variables will be one-hot encoded; similarity and social networks analysis with clustering to identify syndemic subpopulations; and cost-effectiveness and cost-utility analyses using Markov modelling and (2) narrative and thematic qualitative analysis of the SCM’s implementation and impact on community members’ health, function and quality of life.

Ethics and dissemination

Research ethics boards of participant institutions approved this research protocol. This project will be presented to municipal authorities, community meetings and community leaders for observation and acceptance. For people who wish to participate, informed consent will be provided written and verbally in Spanish or Mayan-Yucatecan according to the participant preferences, and it can be signed by either autograph or fingerprint. The results of this research will be disseminated to various groups: (a) local and regional authorities of the Mexican health system and municipal authorities; (b) the participating communities will be informed in an assembly of the results and (c) academic dissemination will be done through publications in public science journals and institutional press releases and will also be presented at national and international congresses or symposia.

¿Qué importancia y justificación tiene para enfermería la competencia cultural en lactancia materna? Una revisión narrativa de estudios cualitativos

Introducción: en el mundo contemporáneo donde cada vez se dan más oleadas de migraciones de un país a otro, se hace más necesaria una enfermería competente culturalmente. La mujer en su embarazo, en su maternidad y en la lactancia materna necesita ser apoyada con sensibilidad cultural por parte del profesional sanitario. Objetivo: revisar y reflexionar sobre la importancia y justificación que tiene la competencia cultural para enfermería en lactancia materna a través de estudios de metodología cualitativa. Material y método: se plantea una revisión narrativa en castellano e inglés en los recursos bibliográficos Pubmed, Scopus, Dialnet y Scielo teniendo en cuenta el objetivo de la revisión y los objetivos de inclusión. Los trabajos han de ser de metodología cualitativa y tener como temática de estudio la maternidad y/o la lactancia materna teniendo en cuenta la competencia cultural. Resultados: finalmente son seleccionados 6 artículos por cumplir los criterios de inclusión. En síntesis, en todos los estudios seleccionados se muestra la justificación e importancia que tiene la competencia cultural en todo lo concerniente a la maternidad y a la lactancia materna a nivel internacional entre grupos de mujeres diversamente culturales. Conclusiones y reflexiones finales: continúan existiendo márgenes de mejora en cuanto a la formación enfermera en competencia cultural en el cuidado de la mujer en el embarazo, en el puerperio y en lo que respecta a la lactancia materna internacionalmente.

Vivencias del “YO PURO” en mujeres privadas de su libertad con antecedentes de consumo de drogas

Objetivo: describir las vivencias del “YO PURO” en mujeres privadas de libertad con antecedentes de consumo de drogas. Metodología: estudio cualitativo descriptivo de enfoque fenomenológico, utilizando un análisis de contenido temático e inductivo. La selección de participantes se realizó mediante un muestreo no probabilístico e intencional, incluyendo a seis mujeres privadas de su libertad. Para la recolección de datos, se aplicó una entrevista en profundidad basada en una pregunta detonadora. El análisis se llevó a cabo siguiendo los planteamientos propuestos por Edmund Husserl. Resultados: emergieron siete temas con sus unidades de significado. Experiencia en prisión, experiencia vivida del consumo de sustancias, dependencia y necesidad, reflexión y cuestionamiento del “YO PURO”, Sentimientos de culpa y pérdida, resignificación del presente a través de “YO PURO” y Anhelo de reconstrucción familiar. Conclusión: Este estudio exploró las vivencias de mujeres en reclusión, destacando los factores que influyen en su realidad diaria. Desde el enfoque fenomenológico de Edmund Husserl, se evidenció que la prisión no solo implica sufrimiento, sino que también propicia reflexión y transformación personal.

Medical Adhesive‐Related Skin Injuries in Oncology and Haematology Patients With Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters: A Prospective Descriptive Study

ABSTRACT

Aim

To determine the prevalence of MARSI associated with peripherally inserted central venous catheters (PICCs) in oncology and haematology patients, analyse the type of injury and identify risk factors.

Methodology

A prospective descriptive study was conducted from 9 June 2021 to 8 February 2022. The study population was oncology and haematology patients with a PICC. The variables to be studied included the presence of MARSI in relation to PICC maintenance, injury type, time to onset, mean healing time, and type of treatment received. A descriptive analysis of the entire sample was performed. Chi-square and Student's t-test or Mann–Whitney U-tests were used to identify risk factors, depending on the nature of the variables.

Results

The sample studied was 342 PICCs inserted in 309 patients, 49% (n = 169) women, and the mean overall age was 62.12 years (SD: 12.33). Seventy-six per cent were oncology and 24% haematology patients. The prevalence of MARSI was 32% (n = 111). The most common type of injury was erythema in 39% (n = 42). The mean duration of the lesion was 20.90 days (SD: 31.44). Alkylating agents, among others, were identified as a risk factor.

Conclusions

The results indicate a high prevalence of MARSI. In agreement with the literature, mechanical injuries are the most frequent, and some antineoplastic treatments are a risk factor. This study may help to identify areas for improvement and design strategies for the prevention and treatment of MARSI.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

This study has implications for clinical practice, as it helps to identify areas for improvement and the most relevant clinical practice guideline recommendations to avoid this adverse event.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Diverse diagnostic and management approaches for acute rheumatic fever in Australia and New Zealand: findings of a prospective clinical study

Por: Peiris · R. · Webb · R. · Bennett · J. · Yan · J. · Francis · J. R. · Remenyi · B. · Chan Mow · F. · Burgess · R. · Wilson · N. J. · Stanley · A. · Francis · L. · Holloway · R. · Westbury · R. · Lawrence · S. · Hernandez-Gomez · Y. · Broadhurst · D. · Moreland · N. J. · McGregor · R. · Mot
Objectives

To describe diagnostic and management characteristics of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) among participants in the ‘Searching for a Technology-Driven Acute Rheumatic Fever Test’ study, in order to answer clinical questions and determine epidemiological and practice differences in different settings.

Design

Multisite, prospective cohort study.

Setting

One hospital in northern Australia and two hospitals in New Zealand, 2018–2021.

Participants

143 episodes of definite, probable or possible ARF among 141 participants (median age 10 years, range 5–23; 98% Indigenous).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Participant characteristics, clinical, biochemical and echocardiographic data were explored using descriptive data. Associations with length of stay were determined using multivariable regression analysis.

Results

ARF presentations were heterogeneous with the most common ARF ‘phenotype’ in 19% of cases being carditis with joint manifestations (polyarthritis, monarthritis or polyarthralgia), fever and PR prolongation. The total proportion of children with carditis was 61%. Australian compared with New Zealand participants more commonly had ARF recurrence (22% vs 0%), underlying RHD (48% vs 0%), possible/probable ARF (23% vs 9%) and were underweight (64% vs 16%). Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) provided an incremental diagnostic yield of 21% compared with C reactive protein. No instances of RHD were diagnosed among participants in New Zealand. Positive throat Group A Streptococcus culture was more common in New Zealand than in Australian participants (69% vs 3%). Children often required prolonged hospitalisation, with median hospital length-of-stay being 7 days (range 2–66). Significant predictors for length of stay in a multivariable regression model were valve disease (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.56, 95% CI 1.23 to 1.98, p

Conclusions

This study provides new knowledge on ARF characteristics and management and highlights international variation in diagnostic and management practice. Differing approaches need to be aligned. Meanwhile, locally specific information can help guide patient expectations after ARF diagnosis.

Evaluating an intervention to promote access to mental healthcare for low language proficient migrants and refugees across Europe (MentalHealth4All): study protocol for a pretest-post-test cross-national survey study

Por: van Lent · L. G. G. · Hodakova · S. · Hanft-Robert · S. · Mösko · M. · Rao · C. · Kerremans · K. · Cox · A. · Lazaro Gutierrez · R. · Temizöz · O. · Mankauskiene · D. · Biel · Łucja · Di Maria · E. · Schouten · B. · MentalHealth4All consortium · Weert · Looper · Hernandez · Chen
Background

Migrants and refugees with low language proficiency (LLP) in the dominant language of their host country have a higher risk of suffering from certain mental health disorders compared with non-migrant populations. They are also more likely to experience a lack of access to mental healthcare due to language-related and culture-related barriers. As part of the MentalHealth4All project, a digital multilingual communication and information platform was developed to promote access to mental healthcare for LLP migrants and refugees across Europe. This paper describes the study protocol for evaluating the platform in practice, among both health and/or social care providers (HSCPs) and LLP migrants and refugees.

Methods and analysis

We will conduct a pretest–post-test cross-national survey study to evaluate the platform’s effect evaluation (primary objective) and process evaluation (secondary objective). The primary outcomes (measured at T0, T2 and T3) are four dimensions of access to mental healthcare services: availability, approachability, acceptability and appropriateness of mental healthcare. Secondary outcomes (measured at T2) are: actual usage of the platform (ie, tracking data), perceived ease of use, usefulness of content, comprehensibility of information, attractiveness of content and emotional support. Participants will be recruited from nine European countries: Belgium, Germany, Italy, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, Slovakia, Spain and the UK. Using convenience sampling through professional networks/organisations and key figures, we aim to include at least 52 HSCPs (ie, 6–10 per country) and 260 LLP migrants (ie, 30–35 per country). After completing a pretest questionnaire (T0), participants will be requested to use the platform, and HSCPs will participate in an additional personalised training (T1). Next, participants will fill out a post-test questionnaire (T2) and will be requested to participate in a second post-test questionnaire (T3, about 6–8 weeks after T2) to answer additional questions on their experiences through a brief phone interview (T3 is optional for migrants/refugees).

Ethics and dissemination

For all nine countries, the ethical review board of the participating university (hospital) has assessed and approved the protocol. If successful, the MentalHealth4All platform will be made publicly available to help improve access to mental healthcare services, as well as HSCPs’ cultural competencies in delivering such services, for any LLP migrants and refugees across Europe (and beyond). Findings will also be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and conferences.

Registration details

The ‘MHealth4All project’ was prospectively registered on Open Science Framework, DOI: 10.17605/OSF.IO/U4XSM.

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