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Towards interprofessional medication safety risk management: a qualitative interview study for physicians in primary and secondary care

Por: Saavalainen · A. · Sirenius · H. · Linden-Lahti · C. · Laukkanen · E. · Hosia · H. · Holmström · A.-R.
Objectives

Investigate interprofessional medication safety risk management from the perspective of physicians in healthcare settings.

Design

Qualitative, semistructured interview study. Data analysed with an inductive content analysis.

Setting

Wellbeing Services County in Central Finland.

Participants

17 physicians working in different healthcare settings or specialties.

Results

Physicians’ overall perception of interprofessional medication safety risk management was generally positive. They considered their own responsibility for medication safety as both comprehensive, encompassing the safety of the entire unit and limited, focused primarily on prescribing the correct medication. Organisational barriers to participating in medication safety promotion comprised insufficient healthcare resources and unclear distribution of tasks and responsibilities. Personal barriers included prioritisation of clinical work, considering medication safety as an administrative task and experiencing the process to be slow and complex. Strong leadership, increased visibility of medication safety, framing the topic positively, targeted education and fostering physicians’ intrinsic motivation were identified as means to increase physicians’ participation in medication safety risk management.

Conclusions

This study emphasises the importance of integrating physicians into interprofessional, systems-based medication safety risk management as a core element of high-quality care. Despite recognising their broad role, physicians face barriers such as organisational constraints and limited identification with medication safety advocacy. Addressing these challenges requires enhancing their understanding of the medication management and use process and fostering shared responsibility through time allocation and interprofessional leadership structures.

Study protocol: MRI-based assessment of cerebral blood flow under pharmacologically elevated blood pressure in patients under general anesthesia, and in sedated ICU patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage

by Jonas Österlind, Johan Birnefeld, Elin Birnefeld, Magnus Hultin, Sara Qvarlander, Anders Wåhlin, Petter Holmlund, Laleh Zarrinkoob

Background

Maintaining cerebral perfusion during anesthesia and intensive care is critical, yet the relationship between mean arterial pressure (MAP) and cerebral blood flow (CBF) remains poorly defined. In patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH), pharmacologically induced hypertension is commonly applied to support cerebral perfusion, but its effects are uncertain.

Methods

This protocol describes two parallel clinical studies using identical methodology. The first study population includes adults undergoing elective general anesthesia (MAP-ANE), and the second comprises sedated intensive care patients with aSAH (MAP-SAH). In both study populations, MAP will be increased stepwise with norepinephrine (NE) infusion under continuous invasive blood pressure monitoring, and CBF measured with phase-contrast MRI (PCMRI) and arterial spin labeling (ASL), while near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) will be performed in parallel to evaluate its validity as a surrogate marker. The primary outcome is the change in total CBF between baseline and elevated MAP, directly testing whether induced hypertension increases CBF. Secondary outcomes include ASL perfusion changes, the slope of the MAP–CBF relationship, systemic–cerebral hemodynamic correlations, and NIRS responses.

Expected impact

These studies test the hypothesis that pharmacological MAP augmentation does not predictably increase CBF. By combining quantitative MRI with invasive monitoring, it aims to clarify MAP–CBF interactions, define the physiological basis of induced hypertension, and assess whether NIRS can serve as a clinically useful proxy. Findings are expected to inform safer and more individualized blood pressure management in perioperative and neurocritical care. The studies are registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (MAP-ANE: NCT06855407; MAP-SAH: NCT06033378).

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, MAP-ANE NCT06855407, MAP-SAH NCT06033378

Perspectives of racially minoritized youth with disabilities on addressing ableism and other forms of discrimination

by Sally Lindsay, Janice Phonepraseuth, Van Slothouber, Jaden Lo, Jennifer N. Stinson, Sharon Smile

Background

Racially minoritized youth with disabilities often encounter more extensive forms of discrimination. However, little is known about youth perspectives for addressing disability-related and other forms of discrimination, which is important for enhancing the participation and inclusion of youth with disabilities. This study explored the recommendations of youth with disabilities for addressing barriers and multiple forms of discrimination.

Methods

This study involved in-depth interviews with a purposive sample of 20 youth with disabilities. We applied an inductive thematic analysis to the transcripts.

Results

Our findings highlighted the following key themes: (1) addressing barriers in healthcare, education, employment and the legal system; (2) community, social supports and resources; (3) advocacy; and (4) inclusive policies and youth involvement.

Conclusions

There is a critical need for more inclusive services and support for youth with disabilities, especially those with multiple minoritized identities, to foster safe environments and quality of life.

Study protocol for a pilot study for Remote ADHD Monitoring Program (RAMP) for children in rural areas

by Claire A. MacGeorge, Matthew Henry, Hannah A. Ford, Lacy Malloch, Emily Fratesi, Shannon Cabaniss, Jaime Baldner, Melody Greer, Kristin Gaffney, Milan Bimali, Preetha Abraham, Linda Y. Fu, P. Songthip Ounpraseuth, Christine B. Turley

Background

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is the most common neurobehavioral condition of childhood and can be controlled with stimulant medication. Evidence-based guidelines endorse use of standardized ADHD symptom reports to facilitate medication titration to therapeutic dosage. Children living in under-resourced areas experience barriers to receiving this recommended evidence-based care. The Remote ADHD Monitoring Program (RAMP) uses a text-based platform to relay symptom reports from caregivers and teachers to healthcare providers. This pilot study is a feasibility study examining intervention uptake. It compares the submission of structured symptom reports in those children enrolled in RAMP compared to usual care as well as utilization of the RAMP platform by providers.

Methods

This paper describes the protocol to evaluate the feasibility of deploying RAMP in practices serving rural or underserved children. We will recruit 36 dyads from 4 practices in 2 separate states. Each dyad will include a caregiver and their child aged 5–11 years with a diagnosis of ADHD who is starting or reinitiating stimulants. Dyads will be randomized 1:1 to receive the RAMP intervention or usual care with attention controls. Our primary outcome is number of symptom reports (paper assessments in control arm and RAMP reports in intervention arm) per participant that are completed by caregivers and teachers and returned to providers. Our secondary outcome is proportion of submitted RAMP reports that are reviewed by providers.

Discussion

As telehealth use increases, it is critical that we improve access to high quality care for children with chronic conditions. Leveraging technology may be a meaningful approach to improve efficiency in optimizing medication management. This pilot study tests a text-based platform designed to improve communication between the caregivers and teachers of children with ADHD and health care providers. If successful, a future trial will examine the effectiveness of the RAMP intervention on improvement in symptoms.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06743425.

Diet and diet-related challenges with specific focus on carbohydrates and carbohydrate counting in adults with type 1 diabetes: a cross-sectional study

Por: Sterner Isaksson · S. · Hellman · J. · Wijkman · M. · Imberg · H. · Olafsdottir · A. F. · Axelsen · M. · Lind · M.
Objectives

To explore dietary intake, diet-related challenges in glucose management and perceived needs for dietary support among Swedish adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Design

Cross-sectional observational study based on an electronic survey that included the validated Meal-Q food frequency questionnaire and additional questions on dietary habits and management. Participant characteristics were retrieved from the Swedish National Diabetes Register. Descriptive and correlation analyses were conducted.

Setting

Three diabetes specialist clinics in Sweden.

Participants

375 adults with T1D.

Main outcome measures

Dietary intake and diet-related challenges in glucose management.

Results

A total of 191 persons (mean age 48 years; 48% female) consented to participate. The mean (SD) glycated haemoglobin A1c was 56 (13) mmol/mol, mean glucose 8.8 (2.2) mmol/L, time in range (TIR) 64% (18%) and BMI 27 (4.3) kg/m²; 41% used insulin pumps. Mean carbohydrate intake was 183 g/day (41% of energy, E%). Fibre intake was 23 g/day (3.1 g/MJ), and saturated fat intake was 29 g/day (15 E%), both inconsistent with dietary recommendations. About half (51%) found carbohydrate counting challenging, with 53% estimating carbohydrate intake visually and only 18% using advanced methods. Additionally, 48% reported reducing carbohydrate intake, and 61% avoided certain carbohydrate-rich foods due to glucose management difficulties. Approximately 40% of participants reported insufficient dietary guidance from their healthcare providers since diagnosis, 33% expressed interest in further dietitian support and 39% believed dietary changes could improve glucose control.

Conclusions

Participants reported lower fibre intake and higher saturated fat intake compared with dietary guidelines. Many found carbohydrate counting and carbohydrate-rich meals challenging. One-third expressed a wish for additional dietary support. These findings highlight the importance of improving access to tailored dietary counselling in routine T1D care.

Mixed-methods non-randomised single-arm feasibility study assessing delivery of a remote vocational rehabilitation intervention for patients with serious injury: the ROWTATE study

Por: Kellezi · B. · Holmes · J. · Kettlewell · J. · Lindley · R. · Radford · K. · Patel · P. · Bridger · K. · Lannin · N. A. · Andrews · I. · Blackburn · L. · Brooks · A. · das Nair · R. · Fallon · S. · Farrin · A. · Hoffman · K. · Jones · T. · Morriss · R. · Timmons · S. · Kendrick · D.
Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of delivering a vocational rehabilitation intervention (Return to Work After Trauma—ROWTATE), remotely to individuals recovering from traumatic injuries. The primary objectives were to assess therapists’ training and competence, adapt the intervention and training for remote delivery and assess the feasibility and fidelity of remote delivery to inform a definitive randomised controlled trial.

Design

A mixed-methods feasibility study incorporating (1) telerehabilitation qualitative literature review, (2) qualitative interviews preintervention and postintervention with therapists and patients, (3) a team objective structured clinical examination to assess competency, (4) usefulness of training, attitudes towards (15-item Evidence-Based Practice Attitude Scale) and confidence in (4-item Evidence Based Practice Confidence Scale) evidence-based practice, intervention delivery confidence (8-bespoke questions) and intervention behaviour determinants (51-items Theoretical Domains Framework) and (5) single-arm intervention delivery feasibility study.

Setting

The study was conducted in two UK Major Trauma Centres. The intervention and training were adapted for remote delivery due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Participants

Therapists: Seven occupational therapists (OTs) and clinical psychologists (CPs) were trained, and six participated in competency assessment. Seven OTs and CPs participated in preintervention interviews and surveys; six completed post-intervention interviews and four completed post-training surveys. Patients: 10 patients were enrolled in the single-arm feasibility study and 4 of these participated in postintervention qualitative interviews. Inclusion criteria included therapists involved in vocational rehabilitation delivery and patients admitted to major trauma centres. Exclusion criteria included participation in other vocational rehabilitation trials or those who had returned to work or education for at least 80% of preinjury hours. Intervention: The ROWTATE vocational rehabilitation intervention was delivered remotely by trained OTs and CPs. Training included competency assessments, mentoring and adaptation for telerehabilitation. The intervention was delivered over multiple sessions, with content tailored to individual patient needs.

Results

Therapists found the training useful, reported positive attitudes (Evidence-Based Practice Attitude Scale mean=2.9 (SD 0.9)) and high levels of confidence in delivering evidence-based practice (range 75%–100%) and the ROWTATE intervention (range 80%–100%). Intervention barriers identified pretraining became facilitators post-training. Half the therapists needed additional support post-training through mentoring or additional training. The intervention and training were successfully adapted for remote delivery. High levels of fidelity (intervention components delivered: OTs=84.5%, CPs=92.9%) and session attendance rates were found (median: OT=97%, CP=100%). Virtually all sessions were delivered remotely (OT=98%, CP=100%). The intervention was acceptable to patients and therapists; both considered face-to-face delivery where necessary was important.

Conclusions

The ROWTATE intervention was delivered remotely with high fidelity and attendance and was acceptable to patients and therapists. Definitive trial key changes include modifying therapist training, competency assessment, face-to-face intervention delivery where necessary and addressing lower fidelity intervention components.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN74668529.

Incidence and trends of non-fatal overdoses among people with and without HIV: a population-based cohort study in British Columbia, Canada (2012-2020)

Por: Kooij · K. W. · Marziali · M. · Budu · M. · Trigg · J. · Ye · M. · Zhang · W. · McLinden · T. · Emerson · S. D. · Salters · K. · Martins · S. S. · Montaner · J. · Hogg · R. S.
Objectives

Our study investigated the age-adjusted incidence rates of non-fatal overdoses by HIV status and sex, and examined trends over time.

Design

We used data from the Comparative Outcomes and Service Utilization Trends study, a population-based cohort study that includes clinical and administrative health data on virtually all people with HIV (PWH) and a 10% random sample of people without HIV in the province.

Setting

British Columbia, Canada.

Participants

Between April 2012 and March 2020, 11 050 PWH (81.8% male) and 473 952 people without HIV (50.3% male) who were 19 years and older contributed 68 035 and 3 285 824 person years (PY) of follow-up, respectively.

Outcome measures

The primary outcome was age-adjusted incidence rates of non-fatal overdose events stratified by sex and HIV status. Trends over time were also assessed.

Results

Age-adjusted non-fatal overdose incidence rates among males with and without HIV were 36.4 and 3.12 per 1000 PY, respectively (incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 11.7, 95% CI 10.9 to 12.5). For females with and without HIV, the age-adjusted incidence rates were 61.4 and 2.33 per 1000 PY, respectively (IRR=26.3, 95% CI 24.0 to 28.7). Between 2013 and 2019 (calendar years with full-year data), the age-adjusted non-fatal overdose rate increased significantly among males and females without HIV but not among PWH.

Conclusions

We observed a significantly higher non-fatal overdose rate among PWH compared to people without HIV. The rate was highest among females with HIV. These findings underline the need for policies and programmes oriented towards PWH to mitigate overdoses, especially for females.

Development of a practical guide for patient participation in value-based healthcare: an action research study

Objectives

Value-based healthcare (VBHC) strives to improve the healthcare system by focusing on value of care, that is, patient relevant outcomes relative to the costs for achieving these outcomes. Within VBHC, patient participation is crucial to identify patient relevant outcomes and value improvement potential. However, patient participation in VBHC initiatives remains limited. Therefore, we aimed to improve patient participation within VBHC teams with the ultimate aim to develop a practical guide for patient participation in VBHC.

Design

An action research study.

Setting

This study was conducted in seven collaborating Dutch hospitals from March 2023 to November 2024.

Participants

Seven VBHC teams were selected to participate in the cyclical action research steps, that is, orientation, planning, implementation, and evaluation, in which patient participation was implemented or improved. These included the following patient groups: prostate cancer, vulnerable elderly, breast cancer, diabetes, maternity care, colorectal cancer and chronic kidney disease.

Outcomes

Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected. Qualitative data included observations and minutes of meetings with the intervention teams. Quantitative data included responses to the Public and Patient Engagement Evaluation Tool (PPEET) by multiple members of the intervention (n=7) and control teams (n=94) at three time points (T1=6 months, T2=12 months, T3=end of study). Qualitative data were thematically analysed and quantitative data were analysed descriptively. Finally, the data were triangulated to create an overview of lessons learnt in improving patient participation.

Results

Patient participation goals varied across teams, leading to diverse actions, such as establishing a diabetes patient panel and distributing questionnaires to patients with colorectal cancer. PPEET results show that 71% of intervention team members reported that patient participation had an impact on the team’s outcomes compared with 44% in control teams (T3). Furthermore, 80% of the intervention team members initially wanted training in patient participation (T1), which dropped to 29% at T3. Overall, 22 lessons in improving patient participation in multidisciplinary project teams were identified and compiled into a practical guide.

Conclusions

The action research process improved the process and impact of patient participation in the intervention teams. Furthermore, the results indicate that the action research process enhanced the team members’ knowledge and skills on patient participation. The practical guide developed in this study can be used to support implementation of patient participation in VBHC.

Timely Implementation of Patient‐Reported Outcomes in Clinical Care: Insights From Clinicians and Health Informatics Experts

ABSTRACT

Aim

To explore the optimal timing of patient-reported outcome assessment, defined as the collection and use of patient-reported outcomes at clinically meaningful points such as before or during encounters, treatment initiation and follow-up, and to identify the facilitators and barriers to timely use.

Design

A qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews with healthcare professionals across diverse US health systems.

Methods

Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes related to the timing and implementation of patient-reported outcomes assessments. Interviews were analysed iteratively to develop a coding framework and synthesise overarching themes.

Results

Fourteen healthcare professionals, including nurse practitioners, cardiologists and health informatics experts across seven U.S. health systems from academic and community hospitals, were interviewed in February 2024. Three major themes emerged: (1) value proposition of timely patient-reported outcome data collection (2) key facilitators for timely implementation and (3) multilevel barriers. The value proposition focused on the use of patient-reported outcomes for prevention and active disease management. Critical facilitators for the timely implementation of patient-reported outcomes included the involvement of research and clinical coordinators, strategies for pre-visit and on-site patient-reported outcome collection, the use of standardised templates within EHRs and the alignment of patient-reported outcome collection with patients' long-term treatment goals. Finally, multilevel barriers included time constraints, patient-level challenges (e.g., fatigue, literacy, language) and systemic issues (e.g., technical limitations, lack of reimbursement and unclear guidelines).

Conclusion

Timely collection and use of patient-reported outcomes is critical for improving symptom monitoring and supporting patient-centered clinical decision-making. However, multilevel barriers hinder consistent implementation across health care settings.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Integrating patient-reported outcomes into clinical workflows can improve the patient-centeredness of patient-healthcare professional interactions, and provide a more holistic picture of a patient's health status. Addressing barriers to patient-reported outcome implementation, including lack of time, poor health literacy and workflow integration barriers, is crucial for improving clinical outcomes.

Reporting Method

This study adhered to the COREQ (Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research) checklist, in accordance with EQUATOR Network guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public involvement: This study did not include patient or public involvement in its design, conduct or reporting.

Optimized protocol for culturing and extracting DNA from fungal isolates associated with brown spot needle blight in pine trees

by Temitope Ruth Folorunso, Gabriel Silva, Marilis E. Girón, Tess Lindow, Micah Persyn, Lori Eckhardt, Janna R. Willoughby

Effective culturing and DNA extraction protocols are essential for advancing research on fungal pathogens of brown spot needle blight (BSNB) that infect loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) and other Pinus species. We evaluated the performance of four widely used fungal media, including Sabouraud dextrose, malt extract, potato dextrose, and yeast extract peptone dextrose, in both solid (agar) and liquid (broth) formats, quantifying fungal growth through colony diameter and biomass accumulation over a three-week period. Sabouraud dextrose agar and broth consistently supported the most rapid and extensive growth in both formats, while potato dextrose underperformed across these metrics. To identify an optimal protocol for downstream molecular applications, we also compared four DNA extraction methods, three of which were modified variants of the CTAB (cetyl-trimethyl-ammonium bromide) chemistry as well as the Qiagen DNeasy kit following the yeast DNA extraction protocol. DNA yield, quantified by fluorometry, was highest for the high-salt CTAB polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) protocol and DNA purity (assessed by 260/280 absorbance ratio) was optimal for both PVP and Qiagen extractions. From these comparisons, we suggest that Sabouraud dextrose culturing combined with CTAB PVP extraction for use as a robust and accessible pipeline for generating high-quality fungal DNA.

Integrated analysis of genome, metabolome, and transcriptome reveals a bHLH transcription factor potentially regulating the accumulation of flavonoids involved in carrot resistance to Alternaria leaf blight

by Claude Emmanuel Koutouan, Marie Louisa Ramaroson, Angelina El Ghaziri, Laurent Ogé, Abdelhamid Kebieche, Raymonde Baltenweck, Patricia Claudel, Philippe Hugueney, Anita Suel, Sébastien Huet, Linda Voisine, Mathilde Briard, Jean Jacques Helesbeux, Latifa Hamama, Valérie Le Clerc, Emmanuel Geoffriau

Resistance of carrot to Alternaria leaf blight (ALB) caused by Alternaria dauci is a complex and quantitative trait. Numerous QTL for resistance (rQTLs) to ALB have been identified but the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. Some rQTLs have been recently proposed to be linked to the flavonoid content of carrot leaves. In this study, we performed a metabolic QTL analysis and shed light on the potential mechanisms underlying the most significant rQTL, located on carrot chromosome 6 and accounting for a large proportion of the resistance variation. The flavonoids apigenin 7-O-rutinoside, chrysoeriol 7-O-rutinoside and luteolin 7-O-rutinoside were identified as strongly correlated with resistance. The combination of genetic, metabolomic and transcriptomic approaches led to the identification of a gene encoding a bHLH162-like transcription factor, which may be responsible for the accumulation of these rutinosylated flavonoids. Transgenic expression of this bHLH transcription factor led to an over-accumulation of flavonoids in carrot calli, together with significant increase in the antifungal properties of the corresponding calli extracts. Altogether, the bHLH162-like transcription factor identified in this work is a strong candidate for explaining the flavonoid-based resistance to ALB in carrot.

Nursing Research on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals—A Bibliometric Analysis

ABSTRACT

Aim

The aim of this study is to map nursing publications on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in Web of Science, highlighting trends, key contributors, and central research themes to identify potential areas for future research.

Background

The globally-spanning 2030 Agenda promotes sustainable development using research technology and scientific innovation. However, research data availability is a challenge. By conducting big data analyses, using all available nursing research literature indexed in the Web of Science database (Core Collection) pertaining to this field, aid in understanding and advancing this area.

Methods

This study adopts a cross-sectional descriptive bibliometric study design.

Results

The search yielded 131 publications, comprising 116 articles (89%) and 15 review articles (11%). This can be compared to adjacent disciplines such as Internal General Medicine (n = 360), Nutrition/Dietetics (n = 171), and Paediatrics (n = 152). The leading countries in publication output were the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Among the included publications, only eight SDGs were addressed: SDG3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG13 (Climate Action), SDG4 (Quality Education), SDG5 (Gender Equality), SDG6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), SDG1 (No Poverty), and SDG9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).

Conclusions

The findings indicate a scarcity of articles in nursing publications focusing on the SDGs, suggesting insufficient evidence of nursing's contributions to these goals—particularly beyond SDG3.

Implications

This study provides a comprehensive bibliometric review and analysis of existing nursing publications on the SDGs. The results offer valuable insights for future research areas related to the SDGs, particularly for nursing scholars, clinicians, managers, and policymakers concerned with the underrepresentation of nursing publications. To address this gap and advance both the SDGs and quality patient care, action plans should be developed to integrate the SDGs into daily nursing practice.

No Patient or Public Contribution. This study was a bibliometric analysis.

Patient Perception of Involvement in Nursing Bedside Handover: A Cross‐Sectional Study

ABSTRACT

Background

In Australia, aligned to safety and quality standards, the health system implements standardised practices that include patient involvement in nursing bedside handover. Despite this mandate, it remains unclear whether patients are genuinely participating in nursing bedside handovers and whether their perspectives are being considered.

Aim

To explore patient perceptions of their involvement in nursing bedside handovers.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey study was conducted in two acute metropolitan hospitals in Western Australia from July 2021 to March 2022. The survey administered to patients, comprised three sections: demographic information; involvement in bedside handover; and perceptions of bedside handovers; utilising close-ended and Likert scale questions. Open-ended questions further explored participation in bedside handovers. Descriptive statistics and comparative analyses were performed and responses to open-ended questions underwent summative deductive content analysis.

Results

Of the 390 participants, over half reported five or more bedside handovers (n = 197, 50.7%). Most perceived the importance of (n = 334, 79.0%), and expressed their satisfaction with (n = 327, 89.6%), involvement in bedside handover. Perceptions of handover were mostly positive. There were a few significant differences throughout based on type of hospital, gender and age-group. Open ended responses shared perceptions on the perceived benefits, challenges and barriers and ways to enhance involvement in bedside handover. Patients expressed several challenges, including lack of awareness of their right to participate, the approach of nurses and the timing of handovers as hindering their participation in bedside handovers.

Conclusion

Patients perceived the importance of, were mostly satisfied with, and had positive perceptions of bedside handover. However, several challenges hindered effective patient participation. Further research is needed into bedside handover as it is essential to enhance patient-centred quality care that aligns with national safety and quality healthcare standards.

Impacts

Understanding the significance of patient involvement in bedside handovers motivates patients to actively share information about their care, leading to increased patient satisfaction and the promotion of patient-centred care. Addressing challenges through targeted strategies can enhance patient participation, communication, increased patient satisfaction and foster a more patient-centred approach to care.

Patient or Public Contribution

The conduct of this study was supported by the consumer advisory group in the participating hospitals who also reviewed the survey questionnaires and conducted face validity of the survey.

The Green Maternity project: A midwife‐led initiative to promote correct waste segregation on an Australian postnatal ward

Abstract

Aims

Healthcare waste production is a significant contributor to carbon emissions, negatively impacting the environment. Ineffective healthcare waste disposal results in greater measures to manage it which is costly to both the environment and healthcare organizations. This study aimed to improve waste management in a tertiary maternity hospital. Specifically, the impact of a midwife-led intervention to improve waste segregation, staff knowledge and attitudes and waste management-related costs was investigated.

Design

A multi-method study including pre- and post-intervention staff waste management knowledge and attitude surveys and waste audits of bins located on the postnatal ward.

Methods

The intervention included education sessions, posters and signage by waste bins and monthly newsletters distributed throughout 2021 to raise staff awareness of correct waste segregation processes. Pre- and post-intervention surveys were distributed in early 2021 and early 2022, respectively. The waste audits occurred on three occasions, January, July and December of 2021. The waste audit included total waste in kilograms (kg), waste in kg by segregation and identification of correct and incorrect segregation. Waste audit and quantitative staff survey data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi square. Qualitative data from the staff surveys were analysed using content analysis.

Results

Knowledge and attitudes to waste management were similar across pre- and post-intervention staff surveys. Knowledge of accurate allocation of specific items to waste streams was variable with errors identified in both the pre- and post-surveys. Waste audit data showed reductions in clinical waste at each measurement, with a 71.2% decrease in clinical waste from baseline to the final audit. Accuracy of waste segregation also improved from the baseline to final audit, resulting in a 48% reduction in waste management costs.

Conclusion

The midwife-led initiative improved waste segregation and achieved the associated waste management cost reduction.

Impact

A midwifery-led initiative to address waste production and segregation on a maternity ward had a positive impact on waste segregation practices and associated waste management costs. The existence of change champions along with in-service sessions, posters and newsletters to raise awareness of correct waste segregation resulted in a 71% reduction of incorrect items being placed in clinical waste bins. Challenges such as COVID-19 pressures and workload made it difficult for midwives to engage in waste management education and effective waste segregation.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

What Does this Paper Contribute to the Wider Global Clinical Community?

Implementing clinician-led waste management interventions across hospital wards while addressing workload issues are likely to have significant cost benefits for organisations and minimise the environmental impacts of healthcare settings.

Evaluation of a commercial pressure cooker for the preparation of agar media for a diagnostic microbiology laboratory

by Joseph E. Rubin, Florence Huby, Roshan P. Madalagama, Shyamali de Alwis, Melinda Wyshynski, Rasika Jinadasa

The ability to prepare sterilized media is a critical capability of any microbiology lab. Diagnostic labs in low-resource settings, which lack autoclave facilities, are therefore severely limited in their ability to perform basic assays such as bacterial culture or biochemical tests. This investigation aimed to validate the use of a commercially available pressure cooker as an autoclave substitute to produce agar plates. First, a Geobacillus stearothermophilus biological indicator was used to confirm adequate sterilization. Next, the colony morphology of several important bacterial species were compared on MacConkey and 5% sheep’s blood agar plates prepared using the pressure cooker with those made in an autoclave. Finally, disc diffusion susceptibility testing was performed to determine whether the sterilization method impacts the inhibitory zone diameters. Overall, the morphology of colonies was similar on media prepared in both ways; key phenotypic characteristics (lactose fermentation, colour, shape, hemolysis and smell) were the same. Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion test results were nearly identical. These findings indicate that a commercially available pressure cooker may be suitable to prepare media in low-resource laboratories.

In the shadow of Graves disease: a qualitative interview study of patients experiences conducted at a secondary referral centre in Sweden

Por: Lindo · A. · Alsen · S. · Fors · A. · Filipsson Nyström · H.
Objective

Graves’ disease (GD) is the most common form of hyperthyroidism in Sweden with an incidence of 21/100 000 individuals, the majority of whom are women of working age. GD can be overwhelming for the affected patient. A way to improve health outcomes is to better understand patients’ experiences of their illness. We therefore aimed to explore patients’ experiences of GD during the initial phase of the disease.

Design

A qualitative study based on semistructured interviews was conducted and analysed using qualitative content analysis, following Graneheim and Lundman’s description of the method.

Setting

The study was carried out within specialised care at the secondary level in a Swedish healthcare context.

Participants

15 patients (12 women and 3 men; aged 29–74 years) within the first 3 months after GD diagnosis were included in the study.

Results

Being affected by GD means facing a range of new and often incomprehensible symptoms contributing to an experience of change in one’s personality. In contact with healthcare, they experienced challenges such as an overwhelming amount of information, a lack of energy, and feelings of being a burden. These factors were described as having a negative impact on daily life, well-being, and psychological and psychosocial functioning. The participants highlighted the need to be listened to, to receive tailored information, to have continuous contact, and to have fatigue and other symptoms more thoroughly addressed.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that symptoms have a significant impact on patients with GD, influencing their care experience, information processing, decision-making abilities, and daily functioning. The application of person-centred care can be one way to support patients with GD, as it facilitates a collaborative approach and enhances the comprehension of each patient’s needs and resources. By acknowledging the patient’s experiences, situation, and expectations, as well as the comprehensive impact of the disease, and by modifying support strategies, patient well-being and health outcomes may be significantly improved.

The multisystemic roots of South African child and youth resilience: A scoping review

by Linda C. Theron, Adrian D. van Breda

Introduction and objective

A multisystemic approach to researching resilience investigates resources across multiple systems, including biological, psychological, social, institutional, structural, environmental, and cultural systems, with special interest in how these resources co-act to enable better-than-expected outcomes among risk-exposed children and youth. This approach is an important step toward redressing neoliberal misinterpretations of resilience as a personal capacity. However, it is unclear how well a multisystemic approach is reflected in recent studies of child and youth resilience conducted in South Africa, a country where ongoing structural violence demands resilience from most children and youth. In response, this article reports a scoping review of South African child and youth resilience studies published between 2018 and 2023.

Methodology

The methodology aligned with the PRISMA extension for Scoping Reviews. The authors systematically scoped the available literature (n = 1309 records) to determine which resources from which systems were associated with the resilience of South African children and youth (birth to 29 years). Using a multisystem resilience framework, the narrative review of 99 eligible studies documents the biological, psychological, social, institutional, structural, environmental and cultural resources that enabled better-than-expected outcomes among risk-exposed children and youth.

Results

Psychological and social resources were more prominently reported than biological, institutional, structural, environmental or cultural resources. Two-thirds of the included studies reported resources from two or more systems, with psychological and social systems dominating multisystem studies. Despite the inclusion of multiple systems, studies seldom reported co-acting resources.

Discussion

Although the attention to resources across multiple systems is encouraging, child and youth resilience agendas will be better served by studies that document co-acting resources. This will allow policymakers and service providers to gauge the additive effects of multiple resources and which combinations of resources are most likely to advance young people’s resilience.

Realist review of informal carer involvement in the transition of medicines-related care for patients moving from hospital to home

Por: Richardson · C. L. · Cooper · M. · Atkinson · O. · Black · D. · Lindsey · L. · Cooper · C. · Nazar · H. · Wong · G. · Hughes · C.
Objective

The aim of this work was to understand carer involvement in transitions of care from hospital to home in relation to medicines management. Specifically, via a realist review, to describe how carers provide support, to what extent do they support patients and under what circumstances are carers able to provide support towards patient care in relation to medicines management.

Design

A realist review was conducted in line with a published protocol and as registered via PROSPERO (CRD42021262827). An initial programme theory (PT) was developed before searches of three databases, PubMed, CINHAL and EMBASE, were conducted in accordance with eligibility criteria. Data were extracted from eligible studies and synthesised into realist causal explanations in the form of Context-Mechanism-Outcome-Configurations (CMOCs) and the PT was refined. Throughout the review, a patient and PPIE group (n≥5) was involved, meeting five times, to inform the research focus and develop CMOCs and the PT by providing feedback and ensuring they capture the carer experience.

Results

Following title and abstract screening of 4835 papers, the final number of included articles was 208. The evidence synthesis identified 31 CMOCs which were categorised into three themes: (1) continuum of support; (2) understanding the carers’ priorities, role and responsibilities through shared decision-making (SDM) and (3) access to appropriate materials, resources and support information. These themes were formed into an updated PT with accompanying narrative that explained the transition from hospital to home involving carers in medicines management and identified possible areas for future intervention development.

Conclusion

This review provides insights and recommendations on how carers can be better supported when managing medicines when patients are discharged from hospital. Carers need a continuum of support throughout and following the transition. Healthcare professionals can support this by understanding the carer’s priorities, role and responsibilities through SDM during the hospital stay. Consequently, carers can then be offered access to appropriate materials, resources and support information which allows them to provide better care relating to medicines in the long term.

Design and methods of the Ixekizumab Diabetes Intervention Trial (I-DIT): protocol for a phase 2, randomised, multicentre, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial of anti-interleukin 17 as a treatment option for adults with new-onset type 1 diabetes

Por: Seyed Ahmadi · S. · Korsgren · O. · Jansson · P.-A. · Lind · M.
Introduction

Type 1 diabetes is characterised by progressive loss of pancreatic beta cells. Studies have shown that interleukin (IL)–17 is likely a mediator for this destruction. Whether inhibition of IL-17 could preserve beta cell function in people with new-onset type 1 diabetes is unknown.

Methods and analysis

In this phase 2, randomised, multicentre, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial conducted at 17 study sites in Sweden, 127 adults aged 18–45 years old with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes will be enrolled. Participants will be randomised to receive either subcutaneous IL-17 inhibitor or placebo for 52 weeks, in addition to their conventional therapy. The primary endpoint will be change in residual insulin secretion measured by the area under the curve for C-peptide in response to 2-hour mixed meal tolerance test between baseline and week 52. Additionally, masked continuous glucose monitoring will be performed during 14 days at the run-in period, week 13, week 26 and week 52. Secondary endpoints will be change in time in glucose range (3.9–10 mmol/L), time in hypoglycaemia (

Ethics and dissemination

Approvals were obtained from the Swedish Ethical Review Authority (Dnr 2020–05098) and the Swedish Medical Products Agency (Dnr 5.1-2021-105808) before participant enrolment. Participants provide informed consent before inclusion. Results of this study will be submitted for publication in international peer-reviewed journals and key findings will be presented at international scientific conferences.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04589325.

PharmacoGENEtics in Youth Depression (GENE-YD) Study protocol: a pilot triple-blinded randomised controlled trial using pharmacogenetics to tailor antidepressant treatment in young Australians

Por: Roberts · B. · Cooper · Z. · Miljevic · A. · Stanley · S. H. · Majda · B. T. · Collins · K. R. L. · Baltic · S. · Lindsey-Temple · S. E. · Akkari · P. A. · Hood · S. D. · Rodger · J.
Background

The prevalence of depression and mood disorders has been steadily rising in Australian youth, with a concomitant increase in antidepressant pharmacotherapy prescription rates. Yet, the tolerability and efficacy of antidepressant drugs in youth remain poor. Pharmacogenetic (PGx) testing, or the personalised and guided treatment of medication based on genetic data, has been suggested to improve the effectiveness and tolerability of antidepressants. However, limited studies have evaluated the utility of antidepressant PGx-guided treatment in adolescent and young adult populations. Thus, this pilot randomised controlled trial (RCT), the GENE-YD Study, will evaluate the feasibility for a large-scale RCT assessing the effect of PGx-guided antidepressant prescription vs treatment as usual in youth with major depressive disorder (MDD).

Methods and analysis

Eighty young people between 16 and 24 years of age and in the early stages of pharmacotherapy treatment for MDD will be recruited. Following initial screening, participants will be randomised on a 1:1 ratio to either the intervention or control study group. Participants in the intervention condition will have their treatment tailored based on their PGx profile. Participants randomised into the control group will have their prescription based on current best practice recommendations, or treatment as usual. Individuals will be assessed at drug prescription baseline and again 6 and 12 weeks following drug prescription. The primary outcome of the study will be to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the GENE-YD protocol. Specifically, this study will explore participation recruitment strategies and attrition to the study protocols to guide the recruitment processes of a large-scale RCT, along with participating satisfaction in overall study protocols. Secondary outcomes will inform the utility and variability of specific measures (eg, depression rating scales, quality of life measures and medication adherence scales) that may be scaled up for use in a future full-scale trial.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval was granted by the Department of Health, Western Australia’s Human Research Ethics Committee (RGS0000006822) and recognised by the University of Western Australia’s Human Research Ethics Committee (2024/ET000685). All participants will be required to provide written informed consent. Results will be published in international peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12624000760572.

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