Healthcare

21 pages, 471 KiB

Open AccessReview

by Sang Hoon Kim, Dokyoung Kim, Jae-Min Lee, Sun Kyu Lee, Hee Jin Kang and Seung Geun Yeo

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 779; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060779 - 21 Jun 2021

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 19688

Various medications are currently used in the treatment of tinnitus, including anesthetics, antiarrhythmics, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, antihistamines, antipsychotics, anxiolytics, calcium channel blockers, cholinergic antagonists, NMDA antagonists, muscle relaxants, vasodilators, and vitamins. To date, however, no medications have been specifically approved to treat tinnitus by [...] Read more.

Various medications are currently used in the treatment of tinnitus, including anesthetics, antiarrhythmics, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, antihistamines, antipsychotics, anxiolytics, calcium channel blockers, cholinergic antagonists, NMDA antagonists, muscle relaxants, vasodilators, and vitamins. To date, however, no medications have been specifically approved to treat tinnitus by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In addition, medicines used to treat other diseases, as well as foods and other ingested materials, can result in unwanted tinnitus. These include alcohol, antineoplastic chemotherapeutic agents and heavy metals, antimetabolites, antitumor agents, antibiotics, caffeine, cocaine, marijuana, nonnarcotic analgesics and antipyretics, ototoxic antibiotics and diuretics, oral contraceptives, quinine and chloroquine, and salicylates. This review, therefore, describes the medications currently used to treat tinnitus, including their mechanisms of action, therapeutic effects, dosages, and side-effects. In addition, this review describes the medications, foods, and other ingested agents that can induce unwanted tinnitus, as well as their mechanisms of action. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Otolaryngology from Diagnosis to Treatment)

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13 pages, 293 KiB

Open AccessReview

Risk Factors and Prediction Models for Venous Thromboembolism in Ambulatory Patients with Lung Cancer

by Ann-Rong Yan, Indira Samarawickrema, Mark Naunton, Gregory M. Peterson, Desmond Yip, Salvatore De Rosa and Reza Mortazavi

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 778; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060778 - 21 Jun 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4419

Abstract

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a significant cause of mortality in patients with lung cancer. Despite the availability of a wide range of anticoagulants to help prevent thrombosis, thromboprophylaxis in ambulatory patients is a challenge due to its associated risk of haemorrhage. As a [...] Read more.

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a significant cause of mortality in patients with lung cancer. Despite the availability of a wide range of anticoagulants to help prevent thrombosis, thromboprophylaxis in ambulatory patients is a challenge due to its associated risk of haemorrhage. As a result, anticoagulation is only recommended in patients with a relatively high risk of VTE. Efforts have been made to develop predictive models for VTE risk assessment in cancer patients, but the availability of a reliable predictive model for ambulate patients with lung cancer is unclear. We have analysed the latest information on this topic, with a focus on the lung cancer-related risk factors for VTE, and risk prediction models developed and validated in this group of patients. The existing risk models, such as the Khorana score, the PROTECHT score and the CONKO score, have shown poor performance in external validations, failing to identify many high-risk individuals. Some of the newly developed and updated models may be promising, but their further validation is needed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Haemostasis and Thrombosis Research in Cancer)

14 pages, 2367 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving the Standard of Care for All—A Practical Guide to Developing a Center of Excellence

by Elaina Vivian, Mary Rachel Brooks, Raquel Longoria, Laurie Lundberg, Jenifer Mallow, Jimmy Shah, Allison Vo, Alejandro Mejia, Paul Tarnasky and Vichin Puri

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 777; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060777 - 21 Jun 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2804

Abstract

Pancreatic surgery is one of the more challenging procedures performed by surgeons. The operations are technically complex and have historically been accompanied by a substantial risk for mortality and postoperative complications. Other pancreatic pathologies require advanced therapeutic procedures that are highly endoscopist-dependent, requiring [...] Read more.

Pancreatic surgery is one of the more challenging procedures performed by surgeons. The operations are technically complex and have historically been accompanied by a substantial risk for mortality and postoperative complications. Other pancreatic pathologies require advanced therapeutic procedures that are highly endoscopist-dependent, requiring specific, knowledge-based training for optimal outcomes. An increase in diagnosed pancreatic pathologies every year reinforces a critical need for experienced surgeons, gastroenterologists/endoscopists, hospitals, and support personnel in the management of complex pancreatic cases and thus, well-designed Centers of Excellence (CoE). In this paper, we outline the framework for a Pancreas CoE across three developmental domains: (1) establishing the foundation; (2) formalizing the program; (3) solidifying the CoE status. This framework can likely be translated to any disease or procedure-specific service-line and facilitate the development of a successful CoE. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Healthcare Quality and Patient Safety)

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7 pages, 509 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Work Fatigue in a Hospital Setting: The Experience at Cheng Hsin General Hospital

by Tao-Hsin Tung and Ming-Chon Hsiung

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 776; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060776 - 21 Jun 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2474

Abstract

We aimed to investigate fatigue and its related factors in a medical professional population aged ≥30 years, as appraised by the implementation of an employee health screening program at Cheng Hsin General Hospital in Taipei, Taiwan. The study participants included a total of [...] Read more.

We aimed to investigate fatigue and its related factors in a medical professional population aged ≥30 years, as appraised by the implementation of an employee health screening program at Cheng Hsin General Hospital in Taipei, Taiwan. The study participants included a total of 2132 (400 males and 1732 females) healthy medical professionals enrolled in a teaching hospital who underwent physical verification in 2019. Demographic characteristics and fatigue information were collected. The overall prevalence of personal- and work-related fatigue in this study population was 41.4% and 39.1%, respectively. The prevalence of a high risk of work- or personal-related fatigue proved to be substantially greater (p-value for chi-square test <0.0001) than it was for a low or moderate risk of personal-related fatigue. Using multinominal logistic regression analysis, seniority and position were statistically significant in relation to a high risk of personal- and work-related fatigue. Personal- and work-related fatigue were found to be prevalent in physicians and nurses. Lower seniority was also related to severe personal- or work-related fatigue. Providing this population with controlled working environments and health improvements is important. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Burnout and Suicide in Healthcare and Allied Professionals)

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8 pages, 233 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Psychological Determinants of Attitude to Surgery in Internal Carotid Artery Stenosis Patients

by Michał-Goran Stanišić, Teresa Rzepa and Przemysław Kubaszewski

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 775; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060775 - 21 Jun 2021

Viewed by 1600

Abstract

The basic way to prevent cerebral stroke in symptomatic 70–99% stenosis of internal carotid artery (ICA) is an open or endovascular surgical procedure. Psychological research done so far among ICA stenosis patients focused on cognitive functioning changes. The objective was to assess attitude [...] Read more.

The basic way to prevent cerebral stroke in symptomatic 70–99% stenosis of internal carotid artery (ICA) is an open or endovascular surgical procedure. Psychological research done so far among ICA stenosis patients focused on cognitive functioning changes. The objective was to assess attitude to surgery in relation to self-efficacy, life quality perception, and health locus of control in ICA stenosis patients. Materials and Methods: The study involved 53 asymptomatic ICA stenosis patients, aged from 53 to 81. Four scales were applied: Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES); Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS); Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale (MHLC); and a simple scale to examine the attitude to surgery, where “−10” stands for the maximally negative attitude, “0”—neutral, and “+10”—maximally positive. The obtained results were put to statistical analysis. Results: It was found that women and men assessed their attitude to the surgery as positive (M = 7.92; SD = 3.094), though the men estimated it slightly higher (M = 8.03; SD = 3.02) than the women (M = 7.67; SD = 3.37). The mean value of self-efficacy was high (M = 32.53; SD = 6.231), and slightly higher for the men (M = 32.79; SD = 5.576) compared to the women (M = 31.87; SD = 7.836). The patients generally tended to manifest the external personal health locus of control (M = 28.62; SD = 3.17). The runner-up was internal health locus of control (M = 26.02; SD = 3.775), and the next one—external impersonal aspect (chance/luck) (M = 23.57; SD = 4.457). The mean assessment of the patients’ own life quality proved to be above average (M = 23.60) but varied (SD = 5.95). The women perceived the quality of their lives as better (M = 24.33; SD = 6.422) than the men (M = 23.32; SD = 5.818). Very strong positive correlations were found between self-efficacy and life quality assessment (p < 0.001) and between the internal and external personal aspects of health locus of control (p < 0.007) in the women, and positive correlations were found between the attitude to surgery and internal health locus of control (p < 0.021) in the men. Conclusions: When breaking the news of a need to have a surgical intervention due to ICA stenosis, the physician should strongly refer to the value of human life and health. The message should arise from external (in the case of women) or internal (in the case of men) motivation to undergo surgery, and enhance the patient’s conviction that the disease should be considered a challenge which must be taken to reverse their unfavorable situation and improve life quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Health Assessments)

13 pages, 3672 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Exercise-Based Cardiac Rehabilitation on Left Ventricular Function in Asian Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

by Yanjiao Wang, Ching-Wen Chien, Ying Xu and Tao-Hsin Tung

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 774; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060774 - 21 Jun 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2847

Abstract

(1) Background: The effects of exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) on left ventricular function in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are important but poorly understood. (2) Purpose: To evaluate the effects of an exercise-based CR program (exercise training [...] Read more.

(1) Background: The effects of exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) on left ventricular function in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are important but poorly understood. (2) Purpose: To evaluate the effects of an exercise-based CR program (exercise training alone or combined with psychosocial or educational interventions) compared with usual care on left ventricular function in patients with AMI receiving PCI. (3) Data sources, study selection and data extraction: We searched PubMed, WEB OF SCIENCE, EMBASE, EBSCO, PsycINFO, LILACS and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases (CENTRAL) up to 12th June 2021. Article selected were randomized controlled trials and published as a full-text article. Meta-analysis was conducted with the use of the software Review manager 5.4. (4) Data synthesis: Eight trials were included in the meta-analysis, of which three trials were rated as high risk of bias. A significant improvement was seen in the exercise-based CR group compared with the control group regarding left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (std. mean difference = 1.33; 95% CI:0.43 to 2.23; p = 0.004), left ventricular end-diastolic dimension (LVEDD) (std. mean difference = −3.05; 95% CI: −6.00 to −0.09; p = 0.04) and left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVESV) (std. mean difference = −0.40; 95% CI: −0.80 to −0.01; p = 0.04). Although exercise-based CR had no statistical effect in decreasing left ventricular end-systolic dimension (LVESD) and left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), it showed a favorable trend in relation to both. (5) Conclusions: Exercise-based CR has beneficial effects on LV function and remodeling in AMI patients treated by PCI. Full article

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9 pages, 875 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Content and Comprehensiveness of Dermatology Residency Training Websites in Taiwan

by Po-Yu Chen, Ying-Xiu Dai, Ya-Chuan Hsu and Tzeng-Ji Chen

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 773; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060773 - 21 Jun 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2246

Abstract

With a growing trend in the popularity of web-based resources, it is important to evaluate residency program websites for providing accurate information for dermatology residency applicants. Little is known about the quality of dermatology residency websites in Taiwan. The aim of the study [...] Read more.

With a growing trend in the popularity of web-based resources, it is important to evaluate residency program websites for providing accurate information for dermatology residency applicants. Little is known about the quality of dermatology residency websites in Taiwan. The aim of the study is to assesses the quality of official websites of dermatology training programs in Taiwan. A literature search for all related studies from inception to 31 July 2020 was performed using PubMed without restriction on language. We used criteria that had 6 domains and 25 items to evaluate 23 official websites of the dermatology training programs in Taiwan from August to September 2020. Of the 23 training programs, only 6 (26%) of the websites met more than half of the criteria. Notably, the items “features of the department” and “comprehensive faculty listing” were included in all websites. The criteria for interview process, board pass rates, social activities and information on the surrounding area were not met by all websites. Evidently, there is much room for improvement for the dermatology training program websites in Taiwan. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection E-learning and Digital Training in Healthcare Education: Current Trends and New Challenges)

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13 pages, 291 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of COVID-19 among Quarantine Hotel Workers in China

by Yi-Man Teng, Kun-Shan Wu, Wen-Cheng Wang and Dan Xu

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 772; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060772 - 21 Jun 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3921

Abstract

During the pandemic, quarantine hotel workers face a higher risk of infection while they host quarantine guests from overseas. This study’s aim is to gain an understanding of the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of quarantine hotel workers in China. A total of [...] Read more.

During the pandemic, quarantine hotel workers face a higher risk of infection while they host quarantine guests from overseas. This study’s aim is to gain an understanding of the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of quarantine hotel workers in China. A total of 170 participants took part in a cross-sectional survey to assess the KAP of quarantine hotel workers in China, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The chi-square test, independent t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), descriptive analysis, and binary logistic regression were used to examine the sociodemographic factors associated with KAP levels during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results show that 62.41% have good knowledge, 94.7% have a positive attitude towards COVID-19, but only 78.2% have good practices. Most quarantine hotel workers (95.3%) are confident that COVID-19 will be successfully controlled and that China is handling the COVID-19 crisis well (98.8%). Most quarantine hotel workers are also taking personal precautions, such as avoiding crowds (80.6%) and wearing facemasks (97.6%). The results evidence that quarantine hotel workers in China have acquired the necessary knowledge, positive attitudes and proactive practices in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The results of this study can provide a reference for quarantine hotel workers and their targeted education and intervention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Socio-Economic Burden of Disease: The COVID-19 Case)

16 pages, 2660 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tick-Borne Surveillance Patterns in Perceived Non-Endemic Geographic Areas: Human Tick Encounters and Disease Outcomes

by Sarah P. Maxwell, Connie L. McNeely, Kevin Thomas and Chris Brooks

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 771; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060771 - 21 Jun 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4924

Abstract

Recent scholarship supports the use of tick bite encounters as a proxy for human disease risk. Extending entomological monitoring, this study was designed to provide geographically salient information on self-reported tick bite encounters by survey respondents who concomitantly reported a Lyme disease (LD) [...] Read more.

Recent scholarship supports the use of tick bite encounters as a proxy for human disease risk. Extending entomological monitoring, this study was designed to provide geographically salient information on self-reported tick bite encounters by survey respondents who concomitantly reported a Lyme disease (LD) diagnosis in a state perceived as non-endemic to tick-borne illness. Focusing on Texas, a mixed-methods approach was used to compare data on tick bite encounters from self-reported LD patients with county-level confirmed cases of LD from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as serological canine reports. A greater proportion of respondents reported not recalling a tick bite in the study population, but a binomial test indicated that this difference was not statistically significant. A secondary analysis compared neighboring county-level data and ecological regions. Using multi-layer thematic mapping, our findings indicated that tick bite reports accurately overlapped with the geographic patterns of those patients previously known to be CDC-positive for serological LD and with canine-positive tests for Borrelia burgdorferi, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis, as well as within neighboring counties and ecological regions. LD patient-reported tick bite encounters, corrected for population density, also accurately aligned with official CDC county hot-spots. Given the large number of counties in Texas, these findings are notable. Overall, the study demonstrates that direct, clinically diagnosed patient reports with county-level tick bite encounter data offer important public health surveillance measures, particularly as it pertains to difficult-to-diagnose diseases where testing protocols may not be well established. Further integration of geo-ecological and socio-demographic factors with existing national epidemiological data, as well as increasingly accessible self-report methods such as online surveys, will contribute to the contextual information needed to organize and implement a coordinated public health response to LD. Full article

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9 pages, 3868 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ultrasound-Guided Anterior Mediastinotomy: A Feasible Tool for Critical Lymphoma Patients

by Roberto Cascone, Annalisa Carlucci, Gaetana Messina, Antonio Noro, Mary Bove, Giovanni Natale, Caterina Sagnelli, Giorgia Opromolla, Mario Martone, Carlo Santoriello, Elena Santoriello, Pasquale Verolino, Massimiliano Creta, Giovanni Vicidomini, Alfonso Fiorelli, Mario Santini and Antonello Sica

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 770; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060770 - 21 Jun 2021

Viewed by 2074

Abstract

A significant part of all neoplasms growing in anterior mediastinum are lymphomas (25%). Achieving a correct diagnosis and a clear definition of a lymphoma’s subtype is crucial for beginning chemotherapy as soon as possible. However, most patients present a large mediastinal mass that [...] Read more.

A significant part of all neoplasms growing in anterior mediastinum are lymphomas (25%). Achieving a correct diagnosis and a clear definition of a lymphoma’s subtype is crucial for beginning chemotherapy as soon as possible. However, most patients present a large mediastinal mass that compresses vessels and airway, with serious cardiorespiratory repercussions. Therefore, having multiple tools available to biopsy the lesion without worsening morbidity becomes fundamental. Patients enrolled in this study were unfit for a surgical biopsy in general anesthesia and the need to begin chemotherapy as fast as possible prompted us to avoid percutaneous fine needle aspiration to prevent diagnostic failures. Our observational study included 13 consecutive patients with radiological findings of anterior mediastinal mass. Ultrasonography was performed directly in the theatre to mark the lesion and to localize vessels and vascularized neoplastic tissue. Open biopsy was carried out in spontaneous breathing with a laryngeal mask and with short-acting medications for a rapid anesthesia, performing an anterior mediastinotomy. The mean operative time was 33.4 ± 6.2 min and spontaneous respiration was maintained throughout the procedure. No complications were reported. All patients were discharged in the first or second postoperative day after a chest X-ray (1.38 ± 0.5 days). The diagnostic yield of this approach was 100%. With the addition of ultrasonography right before the procedure and with spontaneous breathing, anterior mediastinotomy still represents a useful tool in critical patients that could hardly tolerate a general anesthesia. The diagnostic yield is high, and the low postoperative morbidity allows a rapid onset of chemotherapy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Skin Disorders in Hematological Disease)

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7 pages, 222 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lack of Association between Audiogram and Hearing Disability Measures in Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia: What Audiogram Does Not Tell You

by Nattawan Utoomprurkporn, Joshua Stott, Sergi Gonzalez Costafreda and Doris Eva Bamiou

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 769; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060769 - 20 Jun 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3005

Abstract

(1) Introduction: The validity of self-reported hearing disability measures has been assessed using their correlation with the pure-tone average (PTA) hearing loss for non-cognitively impaired adults. However, for people with cognitive impairment, factors in addition to the PTA can play a role in [...] Read more.

(1) Introduction: The validity of self-reported hearing disability measures has been assessed using their correlation with the pure-tone average (PTA) hearing loss for non-cognitively impaired adults. However, for people with cognitive impairment, factors in addition to the PTA can play a role in their self-reported difficulties. Patients with cognitive impairment may experience more hearing difficulties due to their brain processing sounds abnormally, irrespective of PTA. (2) Methods: Three groups of hearing aid users who had normal cognition, mild cognitive impairment and dementia were recruited. Self-reported hearing abilities were assessed with the modified Amsterdam inventory for auditory disability (mAIAD) and the speech, spatial and qualities of hearing scale (SSQ). (3) Results: The SSQ and mAIAD scores were highly correlated with each other for all three groups. However, a correlation with objective PTA was found in the normal cognition but not the cognitively impaired groups. Self-reported hearing scores were associated with cognitive scores for the dementia group (4) Discussion: In people with combined cognitive and hearing impairment, PTA alone may be a poor predictor of hearing abilities. Subjective hearing questionnaires together with hearing tests may provide a better understanding of their hearing difficulties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Auditory Processing Disorder: A Forgotten Hearing Impairment)

9 pages, 855 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Scuba Diving on Microleakage of a Class II Composite Restoration: An In-Vitro Study

by Maryam Shahnavazi, Behzad Salari and Reza Fekrazad

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 768; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060768 - 19 Jun 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3817

Abstract

Persistent pressure change is a common phenomenon within scuba diving with various medical and dental sign side effects. This study evaluates the effect of simulated pressure change due to scuba diving on the microleakage of class II composite restoration. In our methodology, a [...] Read more.

Persistent pressure change is a common phenomenon within scuba diving with various medical and dental sign side effects. This study evaluates the effect of simulated pressure change due to scuba diving on the microleakage of class II composite restoration. In our methodology, a total number of 150 intact bicuspids are divided into two main groups (A and B), and prepared for a class II composite restoration. The samples of each main group are divided into five subgroups to be prepared with different liners. Then samples are restored with the same resin composite material. The teeth in group A are thermocycled under the normal atmospheric pressure, while group B are thermocycled under simulated scuba diving conditions. The gingival microleakage is assessed based on dye penetration. The group B teeth show a significantly higher microleakage score than their equivalents in group A (p < 0.05). The subgroups without a liner have a higher microleakage score than the other subgroups (p < 0.05). The flowable composite shows the leased leakage scores followed by Nano ionomer, Resin Modified Glass Iononomer, GIOMER, and linerless groups (p < 0.05). Scuba diving could increase the risk of microleakage development beneath class II, a composite restoration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diving Physiology and Medical Healthcare)

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13 pages, 1051 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Organizational Support Experiences of Care Home and Home Care Staff in Sweden, Italy, Germany and the United Kingdom during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Connie Lethin, Andrea Kenkmann, Carlos Chiatti, Jonas Christensen, Tamara Backhouse, Anne Killett, Oliver Fisher and Agneta Malmgren Fänge

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 767; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060767 - 19 Jun 2021

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5622

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected care workers all over the globe, as older and more vulnerable people face a high risk of developing severe symptoms and dying from the virus infection. The aim of this study was to compare staff experiences of stress [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected care workers all over the globe, as older and more vulnerable people face a high risk of developing severe symptoms and dying from the virus infection. The aim of this study was to compare staff experiences of stress and anxiety as well as internal and external organizational support in Sweden, Italy, Germany, and the United Kingdom (UK) in order to determine how care staff were affected by the pandemic. A 29-item online questionnaire was used to collect data from care staff respondents: management (n = 136), nurses (n = 132), nursing assistants (n = 195), and other healthcare staff working in these organizations (n = 132). Stress and anxiety levels were highest in the UK and Germany, with Swedish staff showing the least stress. Internal and external support only partially explain the outcomes. Striking discrepancies between different staff groups’ assessment of organizational support as well as a lack of staff voice in the UK and Germany could be key factors in understanding staff’s stress levels during the pandemic. Structural, political, cultural, and economic factors play a significant role, not only factors within the care organization or in the immediate context. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19 Pandemic: Challenges Facing the Health System)

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15 pages, 966 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Salutogenic Perspective on End-of-Life Care among the Indigenous Sámi of Northern Fennoscandia

by Lena Kroik, Carol Tishelman, Krister Stoor and Anette Edin-Liljegren

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 766; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060766 - 19 Jun 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2736

Abstract

There is limited empirical data about both health and end-of-life (EoL) issues among the Indigenous Sámi of Fennoscandia. We therefore aimed to investigate experiences of EoL care and support among the Sámi, both from the Sámi community itself as well as from more [...] Read more.

There is limited empirical data about both health and end-of-life (EoL) issues among the Indigenous Sámi of Fennoscandia. We therefore aimed to investigate experiences of EoL care and support among the Sámi, both from the Sámi community itself as well as from more formalized health and social care services in Sweden. Our primary data source is from focus group discussions (FGDs) held at a Sámi event in 2017 with 24 people, complemented with analysis of previously collected data from 15 individual interviews with both Sámi and non-Sámi informants familiar with dying, death and bereavement among Sámi; “go-along” discussions with 12 Sámi, and individual interviews with 31 Sámi about advance care planning. After initial framework analysis, we applied a salutogenic model for interpretation, focusing on a sense of community coherence. We found a range of generalized resistance resources in relation to the Sámi community, which appeared to support EoL care situations, i.e., Social Organization; Familiarity with EoL Care, Collective Cultural Heritage; Expressions of Spirituality; Support from Majority Care Systems; and Brokerage. These positive features appear to support key components of a sense of community coherence, i.e., comprehensibility, meaningfulness and manageability. We also found relatively few, but notable deficits that may diminish the sense of community coherence, i.e., lack of communication in one’s own language; orientation, familiarity and/or agreement in contacts with formal health and social care systems; and/or support from extended family. The results suggest that there is a robust basis among Sámi for well-functioning EoL care; a challenge is in developing supportive interactions with the majority health and social care systems that support and complement these structures, for partnership in developing care that is meaningful, comprehensible and manageable even in potentially difficult EoL situations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health Palliative Care and Public Palliative Care Education)

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12 pages, 264 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis for the Comparison of Polish and Foreign Dentistry Students’ Concerns during the Covid-19 Pandemic

by Agata Trzcionka, Irena Zalewska and Marta Tanasiewicz

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 765; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060765 - 19 Jun 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2885

Abstract

Introduction: At the beginning of 2020, the worldwide infection of coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) changed many aspects of human lives. The controlled lockdown was not only an obligatory lifestyle change to communities across the globe, but it was also an emotional struggle. The aim of [...] Read more.

Introduction: At the beginning of 2020, the worldwide infection of coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) changed many aspects of human lives. The controlled lockdown was not only an obligatory lifestyle change to communities across the globe, but it was also an emotional struggle. The aim of the presented study was to identify and compare the main difficulties that final-year students (both Polish and foreigners) of Dentistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze Medical University of Silesia had to cope with during the first wave of the pandemic. Application of the biographical method in the form of essays written was done. Authors discussed the following issues: possible losses and benefits subjectively felt by individuals due to the COVID-19 pandemic, adaptation to online type of studying, students’ opinions regarding change of habits, and psychological impact of the lockdown. Students’ responses varied between groups in the aspect of what they considered as the biggest struggle of the pandemic time period. Adaptation to e-learning was easier for the group of foreign students. The Polish group considered it as a serious stress factor. Foreigners were much more worried about not being able to help their families in comparison to Polish students. Polish students’ fear was related to the fear of virus transmission to their older relatives. Both groups were aware of how serious the situation was and of the possible impact of lack of practical classes on their future internships. As benefits of that situation, both groups listed development of new hobbies and increased sport activities. The Polish group emphasized improvement of interpersonal bonds during the lockdown in their families. The main conclusion proved an awareness of the seriousness of the situation in which students of medical, especially dental faculties found themselves. Concerns were related to the form of further studies and the possibility of taking up employment after graduation. Polish students declared more intense concerns about e-learning and remote study than foreign-language students who were more familiar with this form of communication. A particularly valuable form of teaching for students may be increased numbers of online consultations, since even though they cannot replace practical classes, they may still be helpful in explaining doubts and simply “being there”. Encouraging young people to discover constructive benefits of the pandemic can also be one of a task-oriented strategies of help. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Healthcare in Dentistry)

16 pages, 1508 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Play Elements as Mechanisms in Intergenerational Arts Activities to Support Community Engagement with End-of-Life Issues

by Max Kleijberg, Rebecca Hilton, Beth Maina Ahlberg and Carol Tishelman

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 764; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060764 - 19 Jun 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2675

Abstract

Talking about dying, death, and loss may be difficult. Arts offer alternative ways of engaging with end-of-life (EoL) issues, but little is known about the means through which this occurs. In this article, we aim to explore mechanisms in arts activities that support [...] Read more.

Talking about dying, death, and loss may be difficult. Arts offer alternative ways of engaging with end-of-life (EoL) issues, but little is known about the means through which this occurs. In this article, we aim to explore mechanisms in arts activities that support community engagement with EoL issues, based on the community-based participatory action research project Studio DöBra. Studio DöBra was developed to support community engagement with EoL issues through intergenerational arts workshops involving community partners, children, and older adults. Initial analysis with community partners indicated the importance of play elements in arts activities. Continued analysis was therefore abductive, using play theory and qualitative data from Studio DöBra arts activities. Through iterative examination of theory and data, we modified play theory as we identified mechanisms supporting community engagement with EoL issues in arts activities. Findings can contribute to theory-building that can inform arts activities supporting community engagement with EoL issues. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health Palliative Care and Public Palliative Care Education)

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19 pages, 618 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

A Systematic Review on Lean Applications’ in Emergency Departments

by Davenilcio Luiz Souza, André Luis Korzenowski, Michelle McGaha Alvarado, João Henrique Sperafico, Andres Eberhard Friedl Ackermann, Taciana Mareth and Annibal José Scavarda

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 763; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060763 - 19 Jun 2021

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 7826

Abstract

This article presents the state of the art of Lean principles applied in Emergency Departments through a systematic literature review. Our article extends previous work found in the literature to respond to the following questions: (i) What research problems in emergency departments can [...] Read more.

This article presents the state of the art of Lean principles applied in Emergency Departments through a systematic literature review. Our article extends previous work found in the literature to respond to the following questions: (i) What research problems in emergency departments can Lean principles help overcome? (ii) What Lean approaches and tools are used most often in this environment? (iii) What are the results and benefits obtained by these practices? and (iv) What research opportunities appear as gaps in the current state of the art on the subject? A six-step systematic review was performed following the guidance of the PRISMA method. The review analysis identified six main research problems where Lean was applied in Emergency Departments: (i) High Waiting Time and High Length of Hospital Stay; (ii) Health Safety; (iii) Process redesign; (iv) Management and Lessons Learned; (v) High Patient Flow; (vi) Cost Analysis. The six research problems’ main approaches identified were Lean Thinking, Multidisciplinary, Statistics, and Six Sigma. The leading Lean tools and methodologies were VSM, Teamwork, DMAIC, and Kaizen. The main benefits of applying Lean Principles were (a) reductions in waiting time, costs, length of hospital stay, patient flow, and procedure times; and (b) improvements in patient satisfaction, efficiency, productivity, standardization, relationships, safety, quality, and cost savings. Multidisciplinary integration of managers and work teams often yields good results. Finally, this study identifies knowledge gaps and new opportunities to study Lean best practices in healthcare organizations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management and Automation of Health Organizations)

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10 pages, 1178 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving Hospital Length of Stay: Results of a Retrospective Cohort Study

by Swapnil Patel, Abbas Alshami, Steven Douedi, Natasha Campbell, Mohammad Hossain, Arman Mushtaq, Dana Tarina, Brett Sealove, David Kountz, Kim Carpenter, Ellen Angelo, Vito Buccellato, Kenneth Sable, Elliot Frank and Arif Asif

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 762; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060762 - 19 Jun 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5746

Abstract

(1) Background: Jersey Shore University Medical Center (JSUMC) is a 646-bed tertiary medical center located in central New Jersey. Over the past several years, development and maturation of tertiary services at JSUMC has resulted in tremendous growth, with the inpatient volume increasing by [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Jersey Shore University Medical Center (JSUMC) is a 646-bed tertiary medical center located in central New Jersey. Over the past several years, development and maturation of tertiary services at JSUMC has resulted in tremendous growth, with the inpatient volume increasing by 17% between 2016 and 2018. As hospital floors functioned at maximum capacity, the medical center was frequently forced into crisis mode with substantial increases in emergency department (ED) waiting times and a paradoxical increase in-hospital length of stay (hLOS). Prolonged hLOS can contribute to worse patient outcomes and satisfaction, as well as increased medical costs. (2) Methods: A root cause analysis was conducted to identify the factors leading to delays in providing in-hospital services. Four main bottlenecks were identified by the in-hospital phase sub-committee: incomplete orders, delays in placement to rehabilitation facilities, delays due to testing (mainly imaging), and delays in entering the discharge order. Similarly, the discharge process itself was analyzed, and obstacles were identified. Specific interventions to address each obstacle were implemented. Mean CMI-adjusted hospital LOS (CMI-hLOS) was the primary outcome measure. (3) Results: After interventions, CMI-hLOS decreased from 2.99 in 2017 to 2.84 and 2.76 days in 2018 and 2019, respectively. To correct for aberrations due to the COVID pandemic, we compared June–August 2019 to June–August 2020 and found a further decrease to 2.42 days after full implementation of all interventions. We estimate that the intervention led to an absolute reduction in costs of USD 3 million in the second half of 2019 and more than USD 7 million in 2020. On the other hand, the total expenses, represented by salaries for additional staffing, were USD 2,103,274, resulting in an estimated net saving for 2020 of USD 5,400,000. (4) Conclusions: At JSUMC, hLOS was found to be a complex and costly issue. A comprehensive approach, starting with the identification of all correctable delays followed by interventions to mitigate delays, led to a significant reduction in hLOS along with significant cost savings. Full article

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12 pages, 2571 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Wound-Healing and Skin-Moisturizing Effects of Sasa veitchii Extract

by Nobutomo Ikarashi, Miho Kaneko, Izumi Fujisawa, Natsuko Fukuda, Ryotaro Yoshida, Risako Kon, Hiroyasu Sakai, Kiyoshi Sugiyama and Junzo Kamei

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 761; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060761 - 19 Jun 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3022

Abstract

Sasa veitchii (S. veitchii) is a traditional herb derived from the bamboo genus, which is collectively called Kumazasa. Although Kumazasa extract is believed to have various effects on the skin, there is little scientific evidence for these effects. In this study, [...] Read more.

Sasa veitchii (S. veitchii) is a traditional herb derived from the bamboo genus, which is collectively called Kumazasa. Although Kumazasa extract is believed to have various effects on the skin, there is little scientific evidence for these effects. In this study, we aimed to obtain scientific evidence regarding the wound-healing and skin-moisturizing effects of Kumazasa extract. Kumazasa extract was applied to the skin of a mouse wound model for 14 days, and the wound area and dermal water content were measured. Mice treated with Kumazasa extract had smaller wound areas than control mice. The dermal water content in the Kumazasa extract-treated group was significantly higher than that in the control group. The mRNA and protein expression levels of cutaneous aquaporin-3 (AQP3), which is involved in wound healing and increases in dermal water content, were significantly increased by treatment with Kumazasa extract. Kumazasa extract-treated HaCaT cells exhibited significantly higher AQP3 expression and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation than control cells. With continuous application, Kumazasa extract increases AQP3 expression and exerts wound-healing and moisturizing effects. The increase in AQP3 expression elicited by Kumazasa extract may be due to enhancement of transcription via activation of p38 MAPK signaling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Integrative, Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) in Healthcare)

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9 pages, 673 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Difficulties in Diagnosis and Therapy of Infective Endocarditis in Children and Adolescents—Cohort Study

by Alina-Costina Luca, Alexandrina-Stefania Curpan, Heidrun Adumitrachioaiei, Ioana Ciobanu, Cezarina Dragomirescu, Raluca-Stefania Manea, Ecaterina Vlad and Alina Surguci-Copaceanu

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 760; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060760 - 19 Jun 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2474

Abstract

Despite the progress in management and prophylaxis measures, infective endocarditis (IE) is still a condition associated with high mortality rates and severe complications. Fortunately, the incidence of IE is much lower in children and adolescents, with only 0.05–0.12/1000 cases being reported in hospitalized [...] Read more.

Despite the progress in management and prophylaxis measures, infective endocarditis (IE) is still a condition associated with high mortality rates and severe complications. Fortunately, the incidence of IE is much lower in children and adolescents, with only 0.05–0.12/1000 cases being reported in hospitalized pediatric patients. According to recent data, IE is, in most cases, a complication of pre-existing congenital heart disorders, in up to 75–90% of cases. About 8–10% of all IE cases occur in children without a pre-existing heart condition, due to the widespread use of catheters and invasive procedures, or are associated with immunosuppression. The overall mortality rate due to IE among children and adolescents is 16–25%, a fairly high incidence despite advances made in management and treatment methodologies. We present a retrospective case study conducted in the Pediatric Cardiology Department of ‘St. Maria’ Emergency Children’s Hospital of Iași between February 2007 and February 2020, including 54 children aged between 23 days and 17 years. Our study was aimed at revealing the evolution of IE in recent years in the pediatric population, at identifying the main causes leading to the onset and progress of the disease, at assessing the incidence of clinical and paraclinical manifestations and at determining efficient diagnosis and therapy approaches for the population under survey. Full article

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10 pages, 970 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Relationship between Scapular Upward Rotation and Shoulder Internal and External Rotation Isokinetic Strength in Professional Baseball Pitchers

by Byung Gon Kim, Seung Kil Lim and Sunga Kong

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 759; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060759 - 18 Jun 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3135

Abstract

This study aims to assess the relationship between scapular upward rotation (SUR) across varying humeral-elevation angles (HEAs) and shoulder isokinetic strength and ratio in professional baseball pitchers. The subjects were professional baseball pitchers (n = 16) without a history of shoulder injury [...] Read more.

This study aims to assess the relationship between scapular upward rotation (SUR) across varying humeral-elevation angles (HEAs) and shoulder isokinetic strength and ratio in professional baseball pitchers. The subjects were professional baseball pitchers (n = 16) without a history of shoulder injury in the last six months. The subject’s SUR angles were measured with the humerus elevated at HEAs of 0° (at rest), 60°, 90°, and 120° to the scapular plane. Shoulder isokinetic strength was evaluated for shoulder internal rotation (IR) and external rotation (ER) strength (PT%BW and TW%BW), and the ER/IR strength ratios were determined at 60, 120 and 180°/s using an isokinetic dynamometer. The SUR angle at an HEA of 0° was positively correlated with IR strength at 120°/s (r = 0.535) and 180°/s (r = 0.522). The SUR angle at an HEA of 60° was negatively correlated with the ER/IR strength ratios at 60°/s (r = −0.505) and 120°/s (r = −0.500). The SUR angle at an HEA of 90° was negatively correlated with the ER/IR strength ratios at 60°/s (r = −0.574; r = −0.554) and 120°/s (r = −0.521; r = −0.589) as well as with ER strength at 180°/s (r = −0.591, r = −0.556). The SUR angle at an HEA of 120° was negatively correlated with ER strength at 60°/s (r = −0.558), 120°/s (r = −0.504; r = −0.524), and 180°/s (r = −0.543) and the ER/IR strength ratio at 60°/s (r = −0.517). In this study, we found that the ratio of isokinetic strength between ER and IR became closer to the normal range on increasing the SUR angle. In particular, an HEA of 90°, which resembles the pitching motion, showed a clear relationship between SUR, shoulder ER, and the ratio of ER/IR isokinetic strength in professional baseball pitchers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Exercise on Sports Performance and Injury Prevention)

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16 pages, 256 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Patients’ and Relatives’ Preferences for a Palliative/Oncology Day Ward and Out-of-Hours Telemedicine—An Interpretive Description

by Eithne Hayes Bauer, Anders Nikolai Ørsted Schultz, Anette Brink, Lena Oechsle Jørgensen and Georg Bollig

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 758; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060758 - 18 Jun 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2153

Abstract

Demographical challenges require adaptation and tailoring of services to suit palliative patients’ and relatives’ needs. Therefore, an interpretive descriptive study was performed to explore patients’ and relatives’ preferences for the establishment of a day ward and out-of-hours telemedicine. Semi-structured interviews were performed, and [...] Read more.

Demographical challenges require adaptation and tailoring of services to suit palliative patients’ and relatives’ needs. Therefore, an interpretive descriptive study was performed to explore patients’ and relatives’ preferences for the establishment of a day ward and out-of-hours telemedicine. Semi-structured interviews were performed, and data were analysed using thematic analysis. Participants included patients (n = 12) and relatives (n = 5). Three themes emerged: (1) ‘Transport burden’ relates to transition from home-to-hospital-to-home and acknowledges the strain placed on patients and relatives. (2) ‘Role of relatives’ contemplates how the role of families in patient care influences patient preferences. (3) ‘Telemedicine—preferences and concerns’ covers preferences and concerns related to telemedicine in palliative care. The burden of transport and living alone play substantial roles in preferences for place of treatment. Relatives of palliative patients who avail of a day ward and telemedicine may experience an increase in the burden of care. Recognition of concerns pertinent to palliative patients and relatives is an important step in planning new services in palliative care. Concerns may be mitigated by rethinking referral guidelines, incorporating voluntary services, early integration of telemedicine into palliative care and examining patients and relatives’ expectations to care, but requires further research. Full article

14 pages, 1005 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Health Literacy, Health Behavior and States of Health among Trainee Personnel in Northern Germany

by Susanne Steinke, Peter Koch, Janna Lietz, Zita Schillmöller and Albert Nienhaus

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 757; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060757 - 18 Jun 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2297

Abstract

(1) Background: The start of vocational education is a challenge for many people whose careers are just beginning. The working conditions exact new physical and mental tolls that can have an impact on their state of health and health behavior. Well-developed health literacy [...] Read more.

(1) Background: The start of vocational education is a challenge for many people whose careers are just beginning. The working conditions exact new physical and mental tolls that can have an impact on their state of health and health behavior. Well-developed health literacy helps to encourage greater self-responsibility with respect to health and safety in the workplace. This study aimed to contribute to the evolution of health-related interventions in vocational training and instruction. (2) Methodology: This cross-sectional study examined health literacy, health behavior, and states of health among trainees engaged in work-and-study vocational training in 11 professions at the start of their education courses in northern Germany. The data were collected using a paper and pencil format. (3) Results: The survey was approved by 47 vocational schools (response rate 14%), with 1797 trainees returning their questionnaires (response rate 36%). The average age of the overall cohort was 21, and 70% of the trainees were female. A total of 47% of the participants began their careers with sufficient health literacy; health literacy was problematic in 40% of cases, and inadequate in 13% of cases. Around 50% of trainees exhibited poor dietary regime and risky alcohol intake, while 58% reported having a medical condition that had been previously formally diagnosed. (4) Conclusion: There is a need to provide support for developing a healthier approach to work at the start of vocational training. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section School Health)

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14 pages, 303 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sedentary Behavior among 6–14-Year-Old Children during the COVID-19 Lockdown and Its Relation to Physical and Mental Health

by Rima Breidokienė, Roma Jusienė, Vaidotas Urbonas, Rūta Praninskienė and Sigita Girdzijauskienė

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 756; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060756 - 18 Jun 2021

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4085

Abstract

As a result of the outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 and consequent restrictions in spring 2020, children in many countries might be engaged in more sedentary behavior and have limited possibilities to access the necessary level of physical activity to maintain their physical and mental [...] Read more.

As a result of the outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 and consequent restrictions in spring 2020, children in many countries might be engaged in more sedentary behavior and have limited possibilities to access the necessary level of physical activity to maintain their physical and mental health. The aim of this study was to explore the relationships between child sedentary behavior, physical activity, mental and physical health, and parental distress in a sample of Lithuanian children aged 6–14 years during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown in March–June 2020. Parents of 306 children (52.9% female) completed an online survey in May–June 2020 and reported on their children’s screen time for educational and recreational (leisure) purposes, the level of physical activity and time outdoors, somatic symptoms, and emotional well-being and behavior. Parents also reported on stressful life events in the family and personal distress. The results revealed that 57.5% of children exceeded the recommended maximum of 2 h of recreational screen time per day, and 33.6% of the children did not meet the recommended guidelines of 60 min of physical activity per day. Longer screen time for educational purposes and parental distress significantly predicted a higher prevalence of somatic symptoms in children and parental distress also served as a significant predictor of children’s decreased emotional well-being and behavior. These results highlight the importance of psychosocial support interventions for parents who experience distress when raising children at a stressful time, such as during a pandemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Child and Adolescent Health: Challenges and Perspectives)

16 pages, 591 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Examination of COVID-19 Mitigation Efficiency among 23 Countries

by Emily Chia-Yu Su, Cheng-Hsing Hsiao, Yi-Tui Chen and Shih-Heng Yu

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 755; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060755 - 18 Jun 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2837

Abstract

The purpose of this paper was to compare the relative efficiency of COVID-19 transmission mitigation among 23 selected countries, including 19 countries in the G20, two heavily infected countries (Iran and Spain), and two highly populous countries (Pakistan and Nigeria). The mitigation efficiency [...] Read more.

The purpose of this paper was to compare the relative efficiency of COVID-19 transmission mitigation among 23 selected countries, including 19 countries in the G20, two heavily infected countries (Iran and Spain), and two highly populous countries (Pakistan and Nigeria). The mitigation efficiency for each country was evaluated at each stage by using data envelopment analysis (DEA) tools and changes in mitigation efficiency were analyzed across stages. Pearson correlation tests were conducted between each change to examine the impact of efficiency ranks in the previous stage on subsequent stages. An indicator was developed to judge epidemic stability and was applied to practical cases involving lifting travel restrictions and restarting the economy in some countries. The results showed that Korea and Australia performed with the highest efficiency in preventing the diffusion of COVID-19 for the whole period covering 105 days since the first confirmed case, while the USA ranked at the bottom. China, Japan, Korea, and Australia were judged to have recovered from the attack of COVID-19 due to higher epidemic stability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Socio-Economic Burden of Disease: The COVID-19 Case)

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20 pages, 4693 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Collaborative and Structured Network for Maintenance of Mechanical Ventilators during the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic

by Daniel Motta, Luiz Fernando Taboada Gomes Amaral, Bruno Caetano dos Santos Silva, Lucas de Freitas Gomes, Willams Teles Barbosa, Rodrigo Santiago Coelho and Bruna Aparecida Souza Machado

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 754; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060754 - 18 Jun 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2735

Abstract

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in Brazil has grown rapidly since the first case was reported on 26 February 2020. As the pandemic has spread, the low availability of medical equipment has increased, especially mechanical ventilators. The Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) claimed to have [...] Read more.

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in Brazil has grown rapidly since the first case was reported on 26 February 2020. As the pandemic has spread, the low availability of medical equipment has increased, especially mechanical ventilators. The Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) claimed to have only 40,508 mechanical ventilators, which would be insufficient to support the Brazilian population at the pandemic peak. This lack of ventilators, especially in public hospitals, required quick, assertive, and effective actions to minimize the health crisis. This work provides an overview of the rapid deployment of a network for maintaining disused mechanical ventilators in public and private healthcare units in some regions of Brazil during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Data referring to the processes of maintaining equipment, acquiring parts, and conducting national and international training were collected and analyzed. In total, 4047 ventilators were received by the maintenance sites, and 2516 ventilators were successfully repaired and returned to the healthcare units, which represents a success rate of 62.17%. The results show that the maintenance initiative directly impacted the availability and reliability of the equipment, allowing access to ventilators in the public and private health system and increasing the capacity of beds during the pandemic. Full article

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12 pages, 591 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Risk of Weight Loss in Adult Patients and the Effect of Staffing Registered Dietitians in Kaifukuki (Convalescent) Rehabilitation Wards: A Retrospective Analysis of a Nationwide Survey

by Shinta Nishioka, Yoji Kokura, Takatsugu Okamoto, Masako Takayama and Ichiro Miyai

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 753; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060753 - 18 Jun 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2696

Abstract

There is scarce evidence regarding the risk of weight loss and the effect of having registered dietitians (RDs) on staff in rehabilitation wards on weight loss. We aimed to examine the effects of RDs in Kaifukuki (convalescent) rehabilitation wards (KRWs) on the prevention [...] Read more.

There is scarce evidence regarding the risk of weight loss and the effect of having registered dietitians (RDs) on staff in rehabilitation wards on weight loss. We aimed to examine the effects of RDs in Kaifukuki (convalescent) rehabilitation wards (KRWs) on the prevention of weight loss in adult patients. Data from 2-year nationwide annual surveys on KRWs in Japan were retrospectively analysed. Weight loss was defined as loss of ≥5% weight during the KRW stay. Risk of weight loss in class 1 KRWs (obligated to provide nutrition care) was compared with that in class 2–6 KRWs (not obligated). Risk of weight loss in class 2–6 KRWs with RDs was compared to those without. Overall, 17.7% of 39,417 patients lost weight. Class 1 KRWs showed a lower risk of weight loss than class 2–6 KRWs (17.3% vs. 18.5%, p = 0.003). KRWs with RDs showed a significantly lower incidence of weight loss than those without RDs (16.1% vs. 18.8%, p = 0.015). Class 1 KRWs and exclusively staffed RDs were independently associated with lower odds of weight loss (odds ratio = 0.915 and 0.810, respectively). Approximately 18% of KRW patients lost weight, and having RDs on staff can lower the risk of weight loss. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Disorders in Older Adults)

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12 pages, 821 KiB

Open AccessReview

What Is the Value of Ultrasound in Individuals ‘At-Risk’ of Rheumatoid Arthritis Who Do Not Have Clinical Synovitis?

by Andrea Di Matteo, Davide Corradini and Kulveer Mankia

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 752; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060752 - 18 Jun 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3553

Abstract

The identification of biomarkers that help identify individuals at imminent risk of progression to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is of crucial importance for disease prevention. In recent years, several studies have highlighted the value of musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound (US) in predicting progression to inflammatory [...] Read more.

The identification of biomarkers that help identify individuals at imminent risk of progression to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is of crucial importance for disease prevention. In recent years, several studies have highlighted the value of musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound (US) in predicting progression to inflammatory arthritis (IA) in individuals ‘at-risk’ of RA. These studies have highlighted the following main aspects: first, in RA-related autoantibody-positive individuals, MSK symptoms seem to develop before ‘sub-clinical’ joint inflammation occurs on US. Second, the detection of ‘sub-clinical’ synovitis (and/or bone erosions) greatly increases the risk of IA development in these ‘at-risk’ individuals. US has a potential key role for better understanding the ‘pre-clinical’ stages in individuals ‘at-risk’ of RA, and for the early identification of those individuals at high risk of developing IA. Further research is needed to address questions on image analysis and standardization. In this review, we provide an overview of the most relevant studies which have investigated the value of US in the prediction of RA development in individuals ‘at-risk’ of RA who have MSK symptoms, but no clinical evidence of IA. We highlight recent insights, limitations, and future perspectives of US use in this important population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rheumatoid Arthritis Prevention and Control)

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15 pages, 282 KiB

Open AccessArticle

WeChatting for Health: What Motivates Older Adult Engagement with Health Information

by Xiaoxiao Zhang, Xiaoge Xu and Jiang Cheng

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 751; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060751 - 18 Jun 2021

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3493

Abstract

Although WeChat has become increasingly popular among Chinese elderly people as a tool to engage with health information, little research has examined their motivations for health purposes and their engagement with health information on the site. By applying the two-stage Use and gratification [...] Read more.

Although WeChat has become increasingly popular among Chinese elderly people as a tool to engage with health information, little research has examined their motivations for health purposes and their engagement with health information on the site. By applying the two-stage Use and gratification (U&G) approach, we first conducted in-depth interviews (n = 20) to explore older adults’ distinctive motives. Based on the 22 motives found in the qualitative research, we developed a questionnaire for an online survey (n = 690) to further investigate how these motives affect older adults’ engagement with health information on WeChat. As the result, six motive typologies were identified: information needs, social support, surveillance, social interaction, self-agency building, and technological convenience. Together, these six types of motivations jointly account for 59.9% of the variance in older adults’ engagement with health information (M = 2.71, SD = 0.79, adjusted R² = 0.59, p < 0.001). Social support and information needs were significant predictors, suggesting that the older WeChat users’ active engagement is driven by personal instrumental gratification. This study examines the explanation power of U&G theory in a health context, as well as provides the practical implication for leveraging mobile social media to improve older people’s healthcare management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Telehealth: How Technology Is Evolving Healthcare Training and Patient Education)

13 pages, 1076 KiB

Open AccessReview

Does the Coronectomy a Feasible and Safe Procedure to Avoid the Inferior Alveolar Nerve Injury during Third Molars Extractions? A Systematic Review

by Raphaela Capella de Souza Póvoa, Carlos Fernando de Almeida Barros Mourão, Thaise Cristina Geremias, Roberto Sacco, Ludmilla Silva Guimarães, Pietro Montemezzi, Angelo Cardarelli, Vittorio Moraschini, Mônica Diuana Calasans-Maia and Rafael Seabra Louro

Healthcare 2021, 9(6), 750; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9060750 - 18 Jun 2021

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3243

Abstract

This systematic review aimed to review the literature on the coronectomy technique and evaluate the incidence of success and complications as a surgical approach for inferior third molars. Online databases were searched for data on the frequency of inferior alveolar nerve damage, lingual [...] Read more.

This systematic review aimed to review the literature on the coronectomy technique and evaluate the incidence of success and complications as a surgical approach for inferior third molars. Online databases were searched for data on the frequency of inferior alveolar nerve damage, lingual nerve damage, root migration, pain, infection, dry socket, and extraction of the remaining root, and data on the necessity of reintervention were also extracted. Randomized clinical trials, controlled clinical trials, prospective cohort studies, and prospective and retrospective studies with or without the control group were intercepted. This systematic review was registered in PROSPERO (CDR 42020135485). Sixteen papers analyzed 2176 coronectomies in total, and only five of them were judged as appropriate according to methodological quality assessment. The incidence of inferior alveolar nerve injury was documented in 0.59% of the procedures, lingual nerve injury in 0.22%, infection 3.95%, dry socket 1.12%, extraction of the root 5.28%, and reintervention 1.13%. The pain was the most reported, in 22.04% of the population. This study provides an overview of the clinical success and complications of coronectomy, and their prevalence. A coronectomy may be considered a low-risk procedure and an option for treatment to avoid potential damage to nervous structures. However, patients should still undergo a full screening and evaluation of postsurgical procedures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Healthcare in Dentistry)

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