Most clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for assessing and managing people’s chronic pain focus on specific pain conditions, body sites or life course stages. This creates complexity for clinicians making care choices in the absence of a diagnosis and/or where a person experiences more than one pain condition. Specific to this context is the ICD-11 classification of chronic primary pain where an experience of pain cannot be better accounted for by another condition. CPGs for chronic primary pain, agnostic to condition or body part, may support clinicians towards best pain care since many of the principles of person-centred chronic pain care are transdiagnostic. The two aims of this systematic review are to (1) identify and appraise CPGs for chronic primary pain, relevant across the life course and (2) map the CPG content against a pain care priority framework to evaluate the extent to which the CPG content aligns with the priorities of people with lived chronic pain experience.
We will systematically search nine scholarly databases, the Epistemonikos database and international and national guidelines clearinghouses. CPGs published within 2015–2025, in any language, that offer recommendations about assessment and/or management of chronic primary pain for people of any age, excluding hospitalised inpatients or institutionalised populations, will be included. Pairs of reviewers will independently screen citations for eligibility and appraise CPG quality and implementation potential using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE)-II and the AGREE-Recommendations Excellence tools, respectively. Data extraction will include the citation and scope characteristics of each CPG, methods used to develop recommendations, verbatim recommendations, guiding principles or practice information and narrative excerpts related to the GRADE Evidence-to-Decision (EtD) considerations (or equivalent). We will use the PROGRESS-PLUS framework as a checklist to identify whether determinants of health equity were considered by guideline developers. CPG recommendations will be organised according to common topics and categorised in a matrix according to strength and direction. Qualitative content analysis will be used to synthesise excerpts relating to GRADE EtD considerations (or equivalent), and we will map extracted data against an established chronic pain care priority framework to determine the extent to which the CPGs align with values and preferences of people with lived experience. Interpretation will be informed by an interdisciplinary Advisory Group, including lived experience partners.
Ethical approval is not required for this systematic review. Results will be disseminated through publication in an open-access peer-reviewed journal, through professional societies, and integrated into education curricula and public-facing resources. Reporting will be consistent with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement.
CRD420251000482.
Dietary (poly)phenols have beneficial properties that may play a relevant role in the management of overweight/obesity and cardiometabolic risk factors, modulating physiological and molecular pathways involved in energy metabolism, adiposity and gut microbiota-derived metabolites.
The Prevention/Precision Diet in Araucanía (PREDIET-ARAC) trial is a randomised, single-blind, parallel arm, placebo-controlled, clinical trial designed to assess the potential health benefits of (poly)phenol intake through either diet or supplementation. The study will evaluate the effectiveness of a healthy plant-based diet (PBD) rich in (poly)phenols compared with (poly)phenol supplementation during a caloric restriction intervention.
A total of 99 adults (aged 25–45 years) with overweight or obesity (body mass index: 25–35 kg/m²) and cardiovascular risk factors will be recruited from primary health centres in Temuco, Araucanía Region, Chile. Participants will be randomised (stratified by age:
Dietary data will be collected using dedicated software through three 24-hour dietary recalls at baseline and post-intervention. (Poly)phenol intake will be estimated using the Phenol-Explorer database. The main data collection will include general and lifestyle questionnaires, anthropometric and bioimpedance measurements, blood pressure assessments using sphygmomanometers, physical activity monitoring through accelerometers and strength evaluations via dynamometry. Blood samples will be collected at both baseline and after 12 weeks. For the analysis of plasma metabolites, a large-scale targeted metabolomics approach will be employed, specifically utilising ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry. The healthy PBD will be primarily supplied by the food industry, encompassing a selection of regional and Latin American foods: blueberries, apple, nuts, olive oil and coffee. A descriptive and inferential statistical plan will be conducted, based on comparison tests, regression models and machine-learning algorithms.
This trial adheres to the Declaration of Helsinki and the CONSORT statement. Signed informed consent will be obtained from all participants. Ethical approval has been granted by the Ethical-Scientific Committee of the Health Service of Araucanía Sur, Chile (Approval No 11250095–58) and the Biosafety Committee of the Catholic University of Temuco. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations and engagement with healthcare professionals and policymakers.
To examine how family caregivers of deceased nursing home residents scored and justified their ratings for each item on the Quality of Dying in Long-Term Care scale and to identify the consistencies and discrepancies between their perceptions and the scores assigned when assessing the residents' end-of-life experience.
A convergent mixed-methods design, comprising a cross-sectional study and a thematic analysis for quantitative and qualitative phases, respectively.
Quantitative and qualitative data were collected simultaneously between May 2018 and February 2019. The two sets of data were analysed separately. For the quantitative component, family caregivers completed the quality of dying in long-term care scale and a single-item question assessing the final month of the residents' life. Descriptive statistics, Mann–Whitney U-tests for comparative analyses and Spearman's correlations were applied to the quantitative data, while deductive thematic analysis was conducted for the qualitative data obtained through semi-structured interviews.
Sixty-nine family caregivers completed the QoD-LTC, and 11 participated in qualitative interviews. The mean overall QoD-LTC score was 39.29 (SD = 7.58). The highest-rated domain was ‘Personhood’ (M = 4.32; SD = 0.68), while the lowest was ‘Preparatory Tasks’ (M = 2.66; SD = 1.26). Interviewed family caregivers reported effective management of pain and other symptoms, satisfaction with the care provided and respectful and appropriate treatment. However, they identified significant shortcomings in communication concerning end-of-life issues, coping with death and advance care planning. Residents with cognitive impairment had significantly lower scores on the ‘closure’ (p < 0.01) and ‘preparatory tasks’ (p = 0.03) domains as well as on the overall QoD-LTC score (p = 0.01).
The findings demonstrate consistency between the quantitative and qualitative data, with high scores reported across most domains of the QoD-LTC scale, with the exception of the ‘Preparatory Tasks’ domain. Cognitive impairment among residents was associated with lower perceived quality of the dying process from the perspective of family members.
Aspects related to closure and preparatory tasks were often overlooked. Strategies to enhance end-of-life communication and advance care planning are needed.
The study adhered to the EQUATOR guidelines. The Mixed Methods Reporting in Rehabilitation & Health Sciences (MMR-RHS) checklist for mixed-methods studies, the STROBE checklist for cross-sectional studies, and the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) guidelines for qualitative studies were used for reporting.
No funding was received for the completion of this study.
Introducción: Algunas prácticas ambientales arraigadas culturalmente ocasionan enfermedades infantiles como: diarreas, neumonías, dermatitis, lesiones domésticas no intencionales, etc. Objetivos: Describir las prácticas culturales y ambientales del ámbito rural de Perú que influyen en la salud infantil. Metodología: Investigación cualitativa, descriptiva, el escenario fueron los hogares de 15 madres de familia, residentes rurales de la costa norte de Perú; la muestra fue delimitada por saturación y redundancia, el muestreo no probabilístico por conveniencia. Los datos se recolectaron mediante entrevista semiestructurada y procesados según el análisis de contenido. Resultados: A) Riesgo en la salud infantil por práctica cultural y ambiental de cocina a fuego abierto, B) Práctica cultural y ambiental en la eliminación de excretas, C) Costumbre de quema de residuos sólidos. Conclusiones: La mayoría de las madres de la zona rural cocinan a fuego abierto, usan leña, esto es un riesgo para los niños que permanecen con ellas. Eliminan las excretas en pozos ciegos, debido a la falta de saneamiento. Además, manifiestan un inadecuado manejo de residuos sólidos, eliminados en espacios abiertos que favorecen la proliferación de vectores, para posteriormente ser quemados.
Introducción: El cáncer es una enfermedad compleja y desafiante que afecta no solo la salud física, sino también las dimensiones emocionales, sociales y espirituales de los individuos. Objetivo: Describir las experiencias de un grupo de personas sobrevivientes al cáncer. Método: Se llevó a cabo un estudio cualitativo de tipo etnográfico. La saturación teórica se alcanzó con la participación de 15 personas sobrevivientes de cáncer seleccionadas mediante muestreo en bola de nieve. La recolección de datos se realizó mediante entrevistas semiestructuradas, previo consentimiento informado de los participantes, utilizando la guía propuesta por Leininger para el análisis de datos cualitativos. Resultados: La experiencia de los participantes al haber superado el cáncer se describió en cuatro categorías: el cáncer como sinónimo de muerte, el apoyo familiar, la resiliencia como recurso psicológico crucial y la importancia de la fe en Dios como un bálsamo de vida. Conclusiones: La experiencia de recuperación ante un cáncer comienza con incertidumbre y miedo, asociando inicialmente el diagnóstico con la muerte; pero, con el tiempo, los sobrevivientes logran enfrentar la enfermedad desarrollando una actitud resiliente.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) represents a public health burden, with high prevalence and significant morbidity and mortality. Although evidence-based interventions exist, there is a need for more individualised care. The European project Individualised care from early risk of cardiovascular disease to established heart failure (iCARE4CVD) aims to personalise CVD prevention and treatment. Participatory health research, which actively involves patients in the planning, implementation and evaluation of projects, plays a crucial role here. However, patient participation is often unsuccessful due to the lack of a representative patient sample who is involved throughout the project’s duration, has knowledge of the project and can contribute their experience.
Participative Research for Individualised Care in Cardiovascular Diseases is a non-interventional, non-randomised, multicentre mixed-methods study. The aim is to incorporate patients’ insights into several key activities within iCARE4CVD by establishing country-specific patient panels in Belgium, Germany, Ireland and the UK. The primary objective is to identify patients’ preferences, experiences, requirements and needs for better diagnosis, treatment and self-care of CVD. Therefore, 10–12 patients across the CVD spectrum, from early risk to established CVD and heart failure, will be included in each country (40–48 in total). Over 3.5 years, patient panel members are required to complete four tasks: (1) identification of meaningful Patient-Reported Outcome and Experiences Measures, (2) development of a motivational model to increase adherence, (3) feedback on CVD care processes and (4) usability testing of new digital tools developed within iCARE4CVD. These tasks comprise eight activities in the form of paper-based or digital exercises, telephone surveys, written surveys and in-person focus groups. The results will be continuously incorporated into iCARE4CVD.
This study received ethical approval by the Ethics Committee at the Faculty of Medicine of RWTH Aachen University (EK 24-172) and St. Vincent’s University Hospital (RS24-027), Research Ethics Committee. In Geel and Belfast, positive ethics approval is pending. All participants will provide written informed consent prior to enrolment in the study and participation in the first patient panel task. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at scientific conferences.
DRKS00034899.
V2.1, 6 June 2024.
by Ana I. Romero, Serhiy Surkov, Per Wirsén, Graeme Brookes, Linda Bergström, Jan Tejbrant, Elena Dhamo, Sandra Wilks, Catherine Bryant, Jan Andersson
Catheter-associated urinary tract infection is one of the most common healthcare-associated infections, with biofilm formation playing a key role in its pathogenesis. Indwelling medical devices introduce ideal pathways inside the body for pathogens and feature surfaces conducive to biofilm development, often leading to severe clinical infections recalcitrant to antimicrobials. When bacteria and fungi switch to biofilm mode of growth, they produce a matrix in the form of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). This creates a unique environment for growing virulent colonisers and persisting cells while forming a shielding barrier against immune system attacks, antimicrobial agents and mechanical removal by fluid shear forces. To address this challenge, LubriShieldTM – a novel permanent coating – was invented and evenly applied to both internal and external surfaces of indwelling urinary Foley catheters. Without releasing active substances, it effectively prevented pathogens from producing biofilm. The superhydrophilic coating, incorporating a proprietary anti-fouling ligand, significantly inhibited colonising uropathogens from forming biofilm for up to 14 days in artificial urine medium without microbial killing (up to 99% reduction, P ). In a glass bladder flow model, LubriShieldTM still significantly reduced biofilm formation by 83% (P . Importantly, LubriShield™ maintained its antibiofilm efficacy even after conditioning with fibrinogen, a host-derived protein known to promote bacterial attachment (P = 0.007). RNA-seq analysis revealed significant downregulation of genes associated with microbial EPS formation on the coated surfaces. Additionally, microorganisms adhering to LubriShieldTM coated catheters showed a 78% increased susceptibility to antibiotics compared to those on uncoated catheters (P = 0.004).Advanced simulation is a methodology that allows the development of technical skills and transversal skills such as teamwork and leadership. There are tools to measure the development of technical competencies and student satisfaction with the methodology, but not to measure the development and use of transversal competencies in the clinical practice setting.
To develop and validate a scale to measure the impact of clinical simulation on the development and application of teamwork and leadership competencies.
A multicentre study was carried out in two Spanish universities in which the Clinical Simulation Learning Teamwork and Leadership Scale was developed and validated.
The study was carried out in several phases: development of the questionnaire using a Delphi method, pilot test and validation of the construct with a sample of 207 nursing students. Reporting of this research adheres to STROBE guidelines.
Content validity was checked according to Aiken's V for the three attributes of the questionnaire. Reliability or internal consistency was assessed with Cronbach's α and the sensitivity analysis showed no significant variation when any item was eliminated. On the other hand, McDonald's Omega statistic was used. Intraobserver reliability was taken from a sample of 47 students, in which it was observed that the intraclass correlation was positive.
The Clinical Simulation Learning teamwork and leadership scale is a valid instrument for measuring the development of transversal competencies.
This scale will provide information to evaluate the weight of the clinical simulation in the students' knowledge.
It is a tool for evaluating transversal skills that is proven valid and will improve the training of students.
The instructions of the STROBE checklist have been followed.
The students have participated in the knowledge transfer self-assessment.
Functional tests commonly assess athletes' readiness to return to sports after knee surgery. Despite this, there are still more studies on clinical and patient-reported outcomes. The purpose of this study was to determine differences and combinations of various functional performances within and between athletes 6 months after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-reconstruction (ACLR) for the first time (ACLR-I group) versus second ACL injury on the same knee (ACLR-II group) versus ACLR procedures on both legs (ACLR-III group). A total of 88 patients with ACLR performed single-leg hop (maximum forward distance hop, SLH; side hop > 40 cm in 30 s, SH), Functional Movement Screen (FMS) and dynamic postural balance (Y Balance Test – YBT). Data were recorded during return-to-sport testing (6 months post-surgery). For each variable, a mixed-model analysis of variance, with a between-subjects factor of group (primary ACL injury, recurrent ACL injury and bilateral ACL injury) and a within-subjects factor of limb (involved, uninvolved), were conducted. Differences between the groups were found in different degrees of inter-limb asymmetry in the single-leg hop (p < 0.001) and side hop test (p < 0.02). There was a main effect of limb for the anterior and posteromedial YBT distances, and the single-leg hop and side hop test distances (p ≤ 0.04). For each variable, performance was worse for the involved limb compared to the uninvolved limb. Individuals after recurrent ACLR showed greater functional asymmetries at 6 months of treatment. Jumping tests detected greater performance deficits compared to YBT and FMS.
Neck pain is highly prevalent worldwide with no reliable or approved therapies. Recently, percutaneous neuromodulation (PNM) has gained popularity as an alternative to conventional treatments for managing musculoskeletal disorders.
This study aims to assess the comparative effectiveness of PNM compared with therapeutic exercise in the management of patients with chronic non-specific neck pain (CNNP).
In this randomised, controlled, single-blind study, 100 patients with CNNP will be allocated in a 1:1 ratio into two study groups: treatment with PNM and treatment with therapeutic exercise (specific neck exercises). A total of 18 structured exercise sessions will be administered three times per week for 6 weeks. Disability, pain intensity, fear of movement, quality of life, quality of sleep, catastrophising, cervical range of motion and pressure pain threshold will be recorded at 6 weeks (immediately post-treatment) and 8 weeks after initiation (or the end of treatment).
Ethical approval was obtained from the provincial research ethics committee of Almeria (AP-0429-2023 C4-F2) in June 2024. The results of the study, including feasibility outcomes, will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at academic, clinical and healthcare conferences.
ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT06695949.
Few studies have investigated the prevalence of chronic wounds and the clinical and sociodemographic characteristics of hospitalised patients affected by them. Understanding these characteristics within the inpatient setting can support improved follow-up, inform care strategies, enhance quality and safety and reduce associated healthcare costs. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and the sociodemographic profile of adult inpatients with chronic wounds admitted to the eight hospitals of the Catalan Institute of Health between 2016 and 2020.
A descriptive, observational, cross-sectional and retrospective multicentre study was conducted using routinely collected clinical data from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2020. The study encompassed hospital wards, step-down units and home hospitalisation services across eight public hospitals managed by the Catalan Institute of Health, the main public healthcare provider in Catalonia, Spain. The study included all patients aged 18 years or older who were hospitalised with chronic wounds during the study period. The main variables were nursing diagnoses of chronic wound types: pressure injuries (PIs), arterial ulcers (AUs), venous ulcers (VUs), mixed ulcers and diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), as recorded in nursing electronic health records. Secondary variables included age, sex, reason for admission, unit of admission, hospital type, source of admission and discharge destination. A descriptive and comparative analysis was performed.
Among 796 698 hospitalised patients, 16 935 (2.1%) presented with at least one chronic wound. The most common types of chronic wounds were PIs and AUs. A slight decline in the prevalence of chronic wounds was observed over the study period. Cardiovascular and respiratory conditions were the leading causes of admission among these patients. AUs and DFUs were more prevalent in men, whereas VUs were more frequently observed in women. Patients with PIs had longer hospital stays, higher rates of intensive care unit admissions and increased in-hospital mortality. In contrast, patients with vascular ulcers more often required continued care after discharge (p
Chronic wounds continue to represent a significant healthcare challenge. It is essential to consider the clinical characteristics and health outcomes of hospitalised patients with chronic wounds in order to improve care quality and safety. Further research is warranted to explore the relationship between patient care complexity and the type of chronic wounds present.
The primary objective was to evaluate factors influencing the cost of a ‘hospital at home’ (HAH) for geriatric patients in a Northeastern Mexican hospital. Secondarily to evaluate the per capita global cost-effectiveness compared with traditional hospital care.
This retrospective analysis examined the costs incurred by geriatric patients in an HAH programme from February to December 2022
We collected data from clinical records and assessed medication and procedure costs through the hospital’s financial department. Costs for traditionally hospitalised patients were reviewed for comparison.
Subjects of both genders aged 70 and older who were treated in HAH during 2022 and hospitalised subjects with the same age and gender treated in the same period.
Intervention: NA
Primary outcome: factors that influence costs in HAH. Secondary, global per capita cost comparison between HAH and hospital care.
We examined the expenses associated with 416 home visits to 49 patients in the HAH programme. The main factors influencing the programme’s overall cost were medical care and procedure-related disorders (β=0.333, p=0.002), sleep-regulators (β=0.561, p
This study highlights that the main factors influencing the HAH programme’s costs include medical care and procedure-related disorders, as well as medication extensively used in the elderly population. Additionally, we demonstrated the cost-effectiveness of the HAH programme, which produces substantial savings and is a financially viable alternative to traditional hospital care.
Family caregivers of children receiving pediatric palliative care (PPC) play a crucial role in their care and wellbeing, especially during the early stages of life.
To explore the experience of family caregivers of children aged 1–23 months who are receiving pediatric palliative care (PPC).
A systematic review of qualitative studies was conducted using the databases PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Cuiden. The studies were appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool. The selected studies were synthesized using Noblit and Hare's meta-ethnographic method.
Eleven studies, 169 themes, 36 metaphors and four main themes were identified. Caregivers develop coping strategies related to meaning-making, faith, maintaining hope, and decision-making abilities. They perceive limited time with the child due to structural constraints and the child's deteriorating health, which sometimes prevents them from recognizing their child's identity. Caregivers strive to remain united and rebuild the daily family life they long for, but face challenges related to self-care, maintaining employment, and caring for siblings and their partner. In many cases, they are unsatisfied with the care they receive, attributed to a lack of technical training and understanding of the principles of pediatric palliative care (PPC) by healthcare staff, poor communication skills, and inadequate coordination. Caregivers highlight the role of nurses and the PPC team, advanced care planning, and post-mortem care as positive aspects.
Caregivers' experiences reveal coping strategies, active decision-making, constant challenges, healthcare interactions, and a need for improved comprehensive support.
This study underscores the importance of addressing the unique needs of family caregivers of children aged 1–23 months receiving pediatric palliative care (PPC), highlighting their struggles with social isolation, neglected self-care, and disrupted family life. Healthcare providers should prioritize age-specific approaches to PPC, focusing on improving communication, care coordination, and understanding of palliative care principles to better support these caregivers.
Introducción: La enfermería, como disciplina, demanda un alto nivel de compromiso y responsabilidad, debe abordar conocimientos esenciales para la labor diaria como las responsabilidades tanto éticas, civiles y penales. Objetivo. Este estudio tiene como finalidad evaluar el nivel de conocimientos sobre las responsabilidades civiles, éticas y legales que poseen los profesionales de Enfermería de un hospital público del interior del país, el Hospital Distrital Inmaculada Concepción de la Ciudad de Caaguazú de Paraguay, en el año 2023. Metodología. Se llevó a cabo un estudio cuantitativo, descriptivo de corte transversal con componente analítico. La población estuvo compuesta por 130 profesionales de Enfermería que realizan funciones en las áreas asistenciales y de salud pública. La técnica utilizada fue la encuesta por medio de un instrumento con 25 preguntas, el cuestionario fue validado mediante prueba piloto y la revisión por parte de un panel de expertos. Resultados. De los 130 profesionales de Enfermería encuestados el 77,69% eran del sexo femenino, con promedio de edad entre 30 a 36 años y el 63,85% eran casados, el 49,23% (64) tienen nivel de conocimiento deficiente sobre las responsabilidades penales y el 77.69% (101) poseen el nivel de conocimiento excelente en cuanto a responsabilidad civil, el 44.62% (58) de los profesionales tiene nivel de conocimiento regular sobre responsabilidad ética. Discusión. Más de la mitad de los profesionales de enfermería menores de 32 años tienen nivel de conocimiento malo sobre las responsabilidades penales, lo que resalta la necesidad de implementar programas de formación continua en estas áreas críticas, además de ser un respaldo legal en el actual diario de su profesión.
ABSTRACT
Introduction. Nursing, as a discipline, demands a high level of commitment and responsibility, it must address essential knowledge for daily work such as ethical, civil and criminal responsibilities. Objective. This study aims to evaluate the level of knowledge about civil, ethical and legal responsibilities that nursing professionals have in a public hospital in the interior of the country, the Inmaculada Concepción District Hospital of the City of Caaguazú in Paraguay, in the year 2023. Methodology. A quantitative, descriptive cross-sectional study with an analytical component was carried out. The population was made up of 130 nursing professionals who perform functions in the healthcare and public health areas. The technique used was the survey using an instrument with 25 questions, the questionnaire was validated through pilot testing and review by a panel of experts. Results. Of the 130 nursing professionals surveyed, 77.69% were female, with an average age between 30 to 36 years and 63.85% were married, 49.23% (64) have a poor level of knowledge about the criminal responsibilities and 77.69% (101) have an excellent level of knowledge regarding civil liability, 44.62% (58) of professionals have an excellent level of knowledge. of regular knowledge about ethical responsibility. Discussion. More than half of nursing professionals under 32 years of age have a poor level of knowledge about criminal responsibilities, which highlights the need to implement continuous training programs in these critical areas, in addition to being legal support in the current journal of his profession.
Objetivo. Comparar la percepción de la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud (CVRS) tras la COVID-19 en función del sexo. Metodología. Estudio observacional descriptivo y transversal en pacientes post-COVID de neumología-medicina interna del Complejo asistencial de Zamora, diagnosticados de COVID-19 al menos 3 meses antes. La CVRS se valoró mediante el cuestionario EQ-5D-5L. Resultados. Se incluyeron 192 pacientes, 91 mujeres (47,4 %), edad 57±13 años. 127 pacientes (66,0%) reflejaron un EQ-5D Index < 1, lo que supone una merma en su CVRS. En el análisis comparativo en función del sexo, las mujeres manifestaron mayor dificultad para las actividades cotidianas (38 [41,3%] vs. 22 [21,6%]; p=0,003), dolor/malestar de forma habitual (50 [54,3%] vs. 35 [34,3%]; p=0,005) y ansiedad/depresión (48 [52,2%] vs. 38 [37,3%]; p=0,037). La Escala Visual Analógica (EVA) fue mayor en hombres (69,8±18,7 vs. 63,1±19,5; p=0,016), así como el EQ-5D Index (0,84±0,22 vs. 0,76±0,25; p=0,023). La regresión lineal multivariante confirmó que las mujeres tenían una peor autopercepción de la CVRS independientemente del resto de factores analizados, tanto en el EQ-5D Index [b (IC95%): -0,090 (-0,153 a -0,026)] como en la EVA [b (IC95%): -6,858 (-12,083 a -1,633)]. Discusión. El sexo femenino es un factor de riesgo significativo para una peor calidad de vida auto percibida en pacientes que han pasado la COVID-19, con mayor incidencia de ansiedad, depresión, dolor y limitaciones en actividades cotidianas. Estos problemas fueron más prevalentes en mujeres, quienes mostraron diferencias significativamente menores en el índice EQ-5D y la escala EVA en comparación con los hombres.
ABSTRACT
Objective. To compare the health-related quality of life perception (HRQoL) after COVID-19 according to sex. Methodology. Cross-sectional study in post-COVID patients attending neumology and internal medicine consultation rooms at Complejo Asistencial de Zamora, diagnosed from COVID-19, at least 3 months before. HRQoL was evaluated using the EQ-5D-5L questionnaire. Results: 192 patients were included, 91 women (47,4 %), aged 57±13. 127 patients (66,0%) obtained EQ-5D Index < 1, what means a decrease in their HRQoL. Comparative analysis according to sex showed women had higher difficulties for daily activities (38 [41,3%] vs. 22 [21,6%]; p=0,003), usual pain/discomfort (50 [54,3%] vs. 35 [34,3%]; p=0,005), anxiety/depression (48 [52,2%] vs. 38 [37,3%]; p=0,037). Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was higher among men (69,8±18,7 vs. 63,1±19,5; p=0,016), as well as EQ-5D Index (0,84±0,22 vs. 0,76±0,25; p=0,023). Multivariate linear regression confirmed women had a worse HRQoL perception with independence of the rest of the analyzed factors, in EQ-5D Index [b (IC95%): -0,090 (-0,153 a -0,026)] as well as VAS [b (IC95%): -6,858 (-12,083 a -1,633)]. Discussion: Female sex is a significative risk factor for a worse self-perceived quality of life in patients who had suffered from COVID-19, with a high incidence of anxiety, depression, pain, and limitations for daily activities. These problems were more prevalent in women, who showed significant lower differences in the EQ-5D index and the VAS scale compared to men.
Introducción: Las enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles van en aumento, ocasionando discapacidad y dependencia en quien la padece, así como la necesidad de un cuidador. La cronicidad es un concepto que se ha analizado desde la mirada de la persona que la padece, dejando un vacío en la comprensión del significado para el cuidador. Objetivo: Comprender el significado de la cronicidad para las personas con Enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles y sus cuidadores informales. Materiales y métodos: Investigación cualitativa fenomenológica-hermenéutica según la propuesta de Van Manen, muestreo casual orientado por criterio, participaron 10 personas enfermas y 9 cuidadores. Los criterios de rigor de credibilidad y confirmabilidad, confiabilidad y la transferibilidad, garantizaron la calidad del estudio. Resultados: emergieron los siguientes temas: brindar y recibir cuidado como un acto de amor; unión de la familia; enfrentarse a la dureza; recibir, brindar y buscar apoyo; estar pendiente; cambio de vida; proceso de aprendizaje; una compañía para toda la vida; imponer restricciones, limitaciones y pérdidas. Conclusiones: el significado de la cronicidad para los cuidadores y las personas enfermas es complejo, dinámico y multidimensional; por lo tanto, es necesario realizar intervenciones que ayuden a mitigar el impacto que esta produce en la vida de este binomio.
To assess the effects of COVID-19 pandemic on clinical variables as part of the routine clinical monitoring of patients with chronic diseases in primary care.
A prospective longitudinal study was conducted in primary care centres of the Andalusian Health Service.
Data were recorded before the pandemic (T1), during the declaration of the state of emergency (T2) and in the transition phase (T3). The Barthel index and the Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire (SPMSQ) were used to analyse functional and cognitive changes at the three time points. HbA1c, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, BMI and lipid levels were assessed as clinical variables. Descriptive statistics and non-parametric chi-square test were used for analysis. STROBE checklist was used for the preparation of this paper.
A total fo148 patients with chronic conditions were included in the analysis. Data analysis revealed in T2 only significant reductions in BMI, total levels of cholesterol and HDL during the onset of the pandemic. Barthel Index, SPMSQ, blood pressure and triglycerides and LDL levels worsened in T2, and the negative effects were maintained in T3. Compared to pre-pandemic values, HbA1c levels improved in T3, but HDL levels worsened.
COVID-19 has drastically disrupted several functional, cognitive and biological variables. These results may be useful in identifying clinical parameters that deserve closer attention in the case of a new health crisis. Further studies are needed to assess the potential impacts of each specific chronic condition.
Cognitive and functional status, blood pressure and triglycerides and LDL levels worsen in short term, maintaining the negative effects in medium-term.
To determine the prevalence and clustering of NANDA-International nursing diagnoses in patients assisted by pre-hospital emergency teams.
Retrospective descriptive study of electronic record review.
Episodes recorded during 2019, including at least a nursing diagnosis, were recovered from the electronic health records of a Spanish public emergency agency (N = 28,847). Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the sample and determine prevalence. A two-step cluster analysis was used to group nursing diagnoses. A comparison between clusters in sociodemographic and medical problems was performed. Data were accessed in November 2020.
Risk for falls (00155) (27.3%), Anxiety (00146) (23.2%), Acute pain (00132), Fear (00148) and Ineffective breathing pattern (00032) represented 96.1% of all recorded diagnoses. A six-cluster solution (n = 26.788) was found. Five clusters had a single high-prevalence diagnosis predominance: Risk for falls (00155) in cluster 1, Anxiety (00146) in cluster 2, Fear (00148) in cluster 3, Acute pain (00132) in cluster 4 and Ineffective breathing pattern (00032) in cluster 6. Cluster 5 had several high prevalence diagnoses which co-occurred: Risk for unstable blood glucose level (00179), Ineffective coping (00069), Ineffective health management (00078), Impaired comfort (00214) and Impaired verbal communication (00051).
Five nursing diagnoses accounted for almost the entire prevalence. The identified clusters showed that pre-hospital patients present six patterns of nursing diagnoses. Five clusters were predominated by a predominant nursing diagnosis related to patient safety, coping, comfort, and activity/rest, respectively. The sixth cluster grouped several nursing diagnoses applicable to exacerbations of chronic diseases.
Knowing the prevalence and clustering of nursing diagnoses allows a better understanding of the human responses of patients attended by pre-hospital emergency teams and increases the evidence of individualized/standardized care plans in the pre-hospital clinical setting.
What problem did the study address? There are different models of pre-hospital emergency care services. The use of standardized nursing languages in the pre-hospital setting is not homogeneous. Studies on NANDA-I nursing diagnoses in the pre-hospital context are scarce, and those available are conducted on small samples.
What were the main findings? This paper reports the study with the largest sample among the few published on NANDA-I nursing diagnoses in the pre-hospital care setting. Five nursing diagnoses represented 96.1% of all recorded. These diagnoses were related to patients' safety/protection and coping/stress tolerance. Patients attended by pre-hospital care teams are grouped into six clusters based on the nursing diagnoses, and this classification is independent of the medical conditions the patient suffers.
Where and on whom will the research have an impact?
Knowing the prevalence of nursing diagnoses allows a better understanding of the human responses of patients treated in the pre-hospital setting, increasing the evidence of individualized and standardized care plans for pre-hospital care.
STROBE checklist has been used as a reporting method.
Only patients' records were reviewed without further involvement.
Missed nursing care is defined as care that is delayed, partially completed, or not completed at all. The scenario created by the COVID-19 pandemic may have influenced multifactorial determinants related to the care environment, nursing processes, internal processes, and decision-making processes, increasing missed nursing care.
This scoping review aimed to establish the quantity and type of research undertaken on missed nursing care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews. We searched CINAHL, MEDLINE, Scopus, two national and regional databases, two dissertations and theses databases, a gray literature database, two study registers, and a search engine from November 1, 2019, to March 23, 2023. We included quantitative, qualitative, and mixed studies carried out in all healthcare settings that examined missed nursing care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Language restrictions were not applied. Two independent reviewers conducted study selection and data extraction. Disagreements between the reviewers were resolved through discussion or with an additional reviewer.
We included 25 studies with different designs, the most common being acute care cross-sectional survey designs. Studies focused on determining the frequency and reasons for missed nursing care and its influence on nurses and organizational outcomes.
Missed nursing care studies during the COVID-19 pandemic were essentially nurses-based prevalence surveys. There is an urgent need to advance the design and development of longitudinal and intervention studies, as well as to broaden the focus of research beyond acute care. Further research is needed to determine the impact of missed nursing care on nursing-sensitive outcomes and from the patient's perspective.
Patient medication safety in the acute care setting is a foundational action provided by nurses and healthcare providers for safe patient care. Hospitalization of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) can be dangerous due to the unique and variable medication regimen required. Patients with PD often have their medication administered inappropriately in the acute care setting (e.g., holding a PD medication in preparation for surgery, not administering the medication on the patient's home schedule, and delaying administration). The research question posed in this study was the following: does a PD medication educational intervention in the clinical setting enhance knowledge, comfort, and competence of practicing nurses in the care of patients with PD regarding their medication safety?
A mixed methods study design was used for this 5-month, two-part study with a sample of practicing RNs at three different hospitals. Part one of the study assessed nurses' initial knowledge of PD and PD medication safety and included an educational intervention. Part two of the study occurred 3 months later and evaluated if knowledge from the educational intervention was retained.
The study was conducted in two parts and included a pre-test, educational intervention, post-test, and follow-up test 3 months later. The educational intervention consisted of a 15-minute video of two PD advanced practice nurses being interviewed regarding the general care of a patient with PD. The pre-test, post-test, and follow-up test were identical and consisted of six questions regarding knowledge, comfort, and self-perceived competency. Participants were additionally asked three open-ended questions at follow-up to gain insight on the effectiveness of the educational intervention.
A total sample of 252 RNs participated in this study. Statistically significant improvements in knowledge, comfort, and self-perceived competency were observed in the post-test scores compared to pre-test scores. These statistically significant improvements were retained after 3 months, despite a 42.9% decrease in the number of responders (n = 252 vs. n = 144). Additionally, compared to the post-test, there were no statistically significant declines in knowledge, comfort, or competency in the follow-up test. Qualitative findings indicated that the training regarding PD medications was retained and found to be valuable, even if it was seldom applied in practice.
A review of the literature and this study both support the need for increased education for practicing nurses as it relates to PD and PD medication safety. Healthcare systems, organizations, and associations that support continuing education for nurses create a stronger workforce. Education has been found to keep nurses up to date on the latest advances in care and treatment while also providing exposure to other areas of nursing beyond their clinical settings.
Promoting better patient outcomes through safe medication administration is a hallmark of nursing care excellence. This study found that supporting the use of an educational intervention of PD medication safety for nurses improved RN levels of knowledge, comfort, and competency up to 3 months later. As the population of those with PD increases, healthcare systems, and nurses must now, more than ever, be poised to care for these individuals. This is a critical point in PD patient care since persons with PD are hospitalized 1.5 times more than their peers without PD.