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Inter-reviewer reliability of human literature reviewing and implications for the introduction of machine-assisted systematic reviews: a mixed-methods review

Por: Hanegraaf · P. · Wondimu · A. · Mosselman · J. J. · de Jong · R. · Abogunrin · S. · Queiros · L. · Lane · M. · Postma · M. J. · Boersma · C. · van der Schans · J.
Objectives

Our main objective is to assess the inter-reviewer reliability (IRR) reported in published systematic literature reviews (SLRs). Our secondary objective is to determine the expected IRR by authors of SLRs for both human and machine-assisted reviews.

Methods

We performed a review of SLRs of randomised controlled trials using the PubMed and Embase databases. Data were extracted on IRR by means of Cohen’s kappa score of abstract/title screening, full-text screening and data extraction in combination with review team size, items screened and the quality of the review was assessed with the A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews 2. In addition, we performed a survey of authors of SLRs on their expectations of machine learning automation and human performed IRR in SLRs.

Results

After removal of duplicates, 836 articles were screened for abstract, and 413 were screened full text. In total, 45 eligible articles were included. The average Cohen’s kappa score reported was 0.82 (SD=0.11, n=12) for abstract screening, 0.77 (SD=0.18, n=14) for full-text screening, 0.86 (SD=0.07, n=15) for the whole screening process and 0.88 (SD=0.08, n=16) for data extraction. No association was observed between the IRR reported and review team size, items screened and quality of the SLR. The survey (n=37) showed overlapping expected Cohen’s kappa values ranging between approximately 0.6–0.9 for either human or machine learning-assisted SLRs. No trend was observed between reviewer experience and expected IRR. Authors expect a higher-than-average IRR for machine learning-assisted SLR compared with human based SLR in both screening and data extraction.

Conclusion

Currently, it is not common to report on IRR in the scientific literature for either human and machine learning-assisted SLRs. This mixed-methods review gives first guidance on the human IRR benchmark, which could be used as a minimal threshold for IRR in machine learning-assisted SLRs.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023386706.

Talking in primary care (TIP): protocol for a cluster-randomised controlled trial in UK primary care to assess clinical and cost-effectiveness of communication skills e-learning for practitioners on patients musculoskeletal pain and enablement

Por: Bishop · F. L. · Cross · N. · Dewar-Haggart · R. · Teasdale · E. · Herbert · A. · Robinson · M. E. · Ridd · M. J. · Mallen · C. · Clarson · L. · Bostock · J. · Becque · T. · Stuart · B. · Garfield · K. · Morrison · L. · Pollet · S. · Vennik · J. · Atherton · H. · Howick · J. · Leydon · G. M
Introduction

Effective communication can help optimise healthcare interactions and patient outcomes. However, few interventions have been tested clinically, subjected to cost-effectiveness analysis or are sufficiently brief and well-described for implementation in primary care. This paper presents the protocol for determining the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a rigorously developed brief eLearning tool, EMPathicO, among patients with and without musculoskeletal pain.

Methods and analysis

A cluster randomised controlled trial in general practitioner (GP) surgeries in England and Wales serving patients from diverse geographic, socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds. GP surgeries are randomised (1:1) to receive EMPathicO e-learning immediately, or at trial end. Eligible practitioners (eg, GPs, physiotherapists and nurse practitioners) are involved in managing primary care patients with musculoskeletal pain. Patient recruitment is managed by practice staff and researchers. Target recruitment is 840 adults with and 840 without musculoskeletal pain consulting face-to-face, by telephone or video. Patients complete web-based questionnaires at preconsultation baseline, 1 week and 1, 3 and 6 months later. There are two patient-reported primary outcomes: pain intensity and patient enablement. Cost-effectiveness is considered from the National Health Service and societal perspectives. Secondary and process measures include practitioner patterns of use of EMPathicO, practitioner-reported self-efficacy and intentions, patient-reported symptom severity, quality of life, satisfaction, perceptions of practitioner empathy and optimism, treatment expectancies, anxiety, depression and continuity of care. Purposive subsamples of patients, practitioners and practice staff take part in up to two qualitative, semistructured interviews.

Ethics approval and dissemination

Approved by the South Central Hampshire B Research Ethics Committee on 1 July 2022 and the Health Research Authority and Health and Care Research Wales on 6 July 2022 (REC reference 22/SC/0145; IRAS project ID 312208). Results will be disseminated via peer-reviewed academic publications, conference presentations and patient and practitioner outlets. If successful, EMPathicO could quickly be made available at a low cost to primary care practices across the country.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN18010240.

How to facilitate NHS professionals to recognise and use skills gained from global health engagement when back in the UK workforce? A participatory action research project to design, pilot and evaluate a series of online leadership workshops

Por: Spowart · L. · Inman · A. C. · Hardy · L. J. · Dillon · M. J.
Objectives

Leadership knowledge and skills are known to be developed by health professionals during global health experiences overseas. However, volunteers struggle to recognise and use these new skills on return to their workplace. A series of bespoke leadership workshops were designed, delivered and evaluated by leadership experts to help enhance the transferability of leadership skills back to the UK National Health Service.

Design

A mixed-methods participatory action research methodology was employed to explore the impact of the workshops. This approach lends itself to a complex, situated project involving multiple partners. Quantitative and qualitative descriptive data were collected via online survey (n=29 participants) and focus groups (n=18 focus groups) and thematically analysed.

Setting

The authors delivered the tailored leadership workshops online to globally engaged National Health Service (NHS) healthcare professionals based in England who had all worked overseas within the past 5 years.

Participants

29 participants attended: 11 medical doctors; 6 nurses/midwives; 10 allied health professionals; 1 NHS manager and 1 student nurse (who was also working as a healthcare assistant).

Results

Participants were able to network both during the large group discussions and while in smaller breakout groups. Data highlighted the substantial benefits obtained from this networking, with 91% of participants reporting it enriched their learning experience, particularly within a multi-disciplinary context, and by having the time and space for facilitated reflection on leadership. Furthermore, 78% agreed that they learned new skills for influencing change beyond their position and 76% reported they could maximise the impact of this change for themselves and their employer. Participants also reported the development of systems and ethical leadership knowledge that they felt they could transfer to their NHS roles.

Conclusions

This study extends explorations of global health experiences by moving beyond the skills gained while working in low-income and middle-income countries. The innovative online leadership workshops gave agency to individuals to recognise and use the skills gained from global health placements on return to the NHS.

Impact of chronic oral glucocorticoid treatment on mortality in patients with COVID-19: analysis of a population-based cohort

Por: Einarsdottir · M. J. · Kibiwott Kirui · B. · Li · H. · Olsson · D. · Johannsson · G. · Nyberg · F. · Ragnarsson · O.
Objectives

While glucocorticoid (GC) treatment initiated for COVID-19 reduces mortality, it is unclear whether GC treatment prior to COVID-19 affects mortality. Long-term GC use raises infection and thromboembolic risks. We investigated if patients with oral GC use prior to COVID-19 had increased mortality overall and by selected causes.

Design

Population-based observational cohort study.

Settings

Population-based register data in Sweden.

Participants

All patients infected with COVID-19 in Sweden from January 2020 to November 2021 (n=1 200 153).

Outcome measures

Any prior oral GC use was defined as ≥1 GC prescription during 12 months before index. High exposure was defined as ≥2 GC prescriptions with a cumulative prednisolone dose ≥750 mg or equivalent during 6 months before index. GC users were compared with COVID-19 patients who had not received GCs within 12 months before index. We used Cox proportional hazard models and 1:2 propensity score matching to estimate HRs and 95% CIs, controlling for the same confounders in all analyses.

Results

3378 deaths occurred in subjects with any prior GC exposure (n=48 806; 6.9%) and 14 850 among non-exposed (n=1 151 347; 1.3%). Both high (HR 1.98, 95% CI 1.87 to 2.09) and any exposure (1.58, 1.52 to 1.65) to GCs were associated with overall death. Deaths from pulmonary embolism, sepsis and COVID-19 were associated with high GC exposure and, similarly but weaker, with any exposure. High exposure to GCs was associated with increased deaths caused by stroke and myocardial infarction.

Conclusion

Patients on oral GC treatment prior to COVID-19 have increased mortality, particularly from pulmonary embolism, sepsis and COVID-19.

Tuberculosis infection and hypertension: prevalence estimates from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Por: Salindri · A. D. · Auld · S. C. · Gujral · U. P. · Urbina · E. M. · Andrews · J. R. · Huaman · M. A. · Magee · M. J.
Objectives

Tuberculosis infection (TBI) is marked by dynamic host–pathogen interactions with persistent low-grade inflammation and is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) including acute coronary syndrome, myocardial infarction and stroke. However, few studies assess the relationship between TBI and hypertension, an intermediate of CVD. We sought to determine the association between TBI and hypertension using data representative of the adult US population.

Methods

We performed cross-sectional analyses using data from the 2011–2012 US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Eligible participants included adults with valid QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube (QFT-GIT) test results who also had blood pressure measures and no history of TB disease. TBI was defined by a positive QFT-GIT. We defined hypertension by either elevated measured blood pressure levels (ie, systolic ≥130 mm Hg or diastolic ≥80 mm Hg) or known hypertension indications (ie, self-reported previous diagnosis or use of antihypertensive medications). Analyses were performed using robust quasi-Poisson regressions and accounted for the stratified probability sampling design of NHANES.

Results

The overall prevalence of TBI was 5.7% (95% CI 4.7% to 6.7%) and hypertension was present among 48.9% (95% CI 45.2% to 52.7%) of participants. The prevalence of hypertension was higher among those with TBI (58.5%, 95% CI 52.4% to 64.5%) than those without TBI (48.3%, 95% CI 44.5% to 52.1%) (prevalence ratio (PR) 1.2, 95% CI 1.1 to 1.3). However, after adjusting for confounders, the prevalence of hypertension was similar for those with and without TBI (adjusted PR 1.0, 95% CI 1.0 to 1.1). The unadjusted prevalence of hypertension was higher among those with TBI versus no TBI, especially among individuals without CVD risk factors including those with normal body mass index (PR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2 to 2.0), euglycaemia (PR 1.3, 95% CI 1.1 to 1.5) or non-smokers (PR 1.2, 95% CI 1.1 to 1.4).

Conclusions

More than half of adults with TBI in the USA had hypertension. Importantly, we observed a relationship between TBI and hypertension among those without established CVD risk factors.

Summary

The prevalence of hypertension was high (59%) among adults with TBI in the USA. In addition, we found that the prevalence of hypertension was significantly higher among adults with positive QFT without established hypertension risk factors.

Association between expedited review designations and the US or global burden of disease for drugs approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, 2010-2019: a cross-sectional analysis

Por: Jackson · M. J. · Vaughan · G. · Ledley · F. D.
Objectives

Pharmaceutical innovation can contribute to reducing the burden of disease in human populations. This research asks whether products approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) from 2010 to 2019 and expedited review programmes incentivising development of products for serious disease were aligned with the US or global burden of disease.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Outcome measures

Association of FDA product approvals (2010–2019), first approved indications, designations for expedited review with the burden of disease (disability-adjusted life years (DALYs)), years of life lost (YLL) and years of life lived with disability (YLD) for 122 WHO Global Health Estimates (GHE) conditions in US and global (ex-US) populations.

Results

The FDA approved 387 drugs in 2010–2019 with lead indications associated with 59/122 GHE conditions. Conditions with at least one new drug had greater US DALYs (p=0.001), US YLL (p1) with US and global YLL.

Conclusions

FDA drug approvals from 2010 to 2019 were more strongly aligned with US than global disease burden. Designations for expedited review were not aligned with either the US or global burdens of disease and may inadvertently disincentivise development of products addressing global disease burdens. These results may inform policies to better align pharmaceutical innovation with the burdens of disease.

Violence against physicians working in public tertiary care hospital of Bangladesh: a facility-based cross-sectional study

Por: Hasan · M. J. · Sarkar · T. Y. · Ahmed · M. · Banik · A. · Islam · S. · Zaman · M. S. · Mahmud · F. · Paul · A. · Sakib · M. N. · Dev · A. · Hossain · M. J. · Fardous · J. · Nishat · N. H. · Rahman · M.
Background

Violence against physicians in the workplace is a prevalent global issue, and Bangladesh is no exception. Such violence significantly disrupts healthcare delivery and the attainment of universal health coverage. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the prevalence, nature and associated risk factors of workplace violence (WPV) against physicians in Bangladesh.

Methods

This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at a public tertiary care hospital involving 441 physicians with a minimum tenure of 6 months. Data were gathered through a structured self-reported questionnaire, and statistical analyses were performed by using SPSS V.25.

Results

Out of the surveyed physicians, 67.3% (n=297) reported experiencing violence, categorised as 84.5% psychological, 13.5% physical and 2% sexual in nature. Predominant forms of psychological violence included bullying (48.8%) and threats (40.1%). The mean age of exposed physicians was 32.5±4.3 (SD) years. Those working in the emergency unit (45.8%), surgery and allied departments (54.2%), engaging in rotating shift work (70%), morning shifts (59.6%) and postgraduate trainees (68%) were frequently subjected to violence. Factors significantly associated with WPV included placement in surgery and allied departments (p

Conclusion

A higher proportion of physicians at the early to mid-level stages of their careers, especially those in rotating shifts and surgery-related departments, reported incidence of WPV. Urgent intervention from policy-makers and healthcare entities is imperative to implement preventive measures. Strengthening security measures, establishing antiviolence policies and providing comprehensive training programmes are crucial steps towards ensuring a safer work environment for healthcare professionals.

Portable devices for diagnosis and monitoring of glaucoma: a scoping review protocol

Por: Garba · F. · Kyari · F. · Nolan · W. · Burton · M. J. · Gordon · I. · Evans · J. R. · Hu · V. H.
Introduction

Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the world. The need to diagnose glaucoma early in its natural history before extensive sight loss occurs cannot be overemphasised. However, glaucoma is largely asymptomatic in the early stages of the disease making it complex to diagnose clinically and requires the support of technology. The objective of this scoping review is to determine the nature and extent of the evidence for use of portable devices in the diagnosis of glaucoma.

Methods

We will consider studies conducted in all healthcare settings using portable devices for the detection of all type of adult glaucoma. We will also include any systematic reviews or scoping reviews, which relate to this topic. Searches will be conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL on the Cochrane Library and Global Health databases, from their inception to the present. Reference lists from publications identified in the searches will also be reviewed. Two authors will independently screen titles and abstracts, followed by full-text screening to assess studies for inclusion. Any disagreements will be discussed and resolved with a third author. Tables accompanied by narrative descriptions will be employed to discuss results and show how it relates to review questions.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required in this review. Only published and publicly accessible data will be used. We will publish our findings in an open-access, peer-reviewed journal and develop an accessible summary of results and recommendations.

Prevalence and correlates of paediatric guideline non-adherence for initial empirical care in six low and middle-income settings: a hospital-based cross-sectional study

Por: Shawon · R. A. · Denno · D. · Tickell · K. D. · Atuhairwe · M. · Bandsma · R. · Mupere · E. · Voskuijl · W. · Mbale · E. · Ahmed · T. · Chisti · M. J. · Saleem · A. F. · Ngari · M. · Diallo · A. H. · Berkley · J. · Walson · J. · Means · A. R.
Objectives

This study evaluated the prevalence and correlates of guideline non-adherence for common childhood illnesses in low-resource settings.

Design and setting

We used secondary cross-sectional data from eight healthcare facilities in six Asian and African countries.

Participants

A total of 2796 children aged 2–23 months hospitalised between November 2016 and January 2019 with pneumonia, diarrhoea or severe malnutrition (SM) and without HIV infection were included in this study.

Primary outcome measures

We identified children treated with full, partial or non-adherent initial inpatient care according to site-specific standard-of-care guidelines for pneumonia, diarrhoea and SM within the first 24 hours of admission. Correlates of guideline non-adherence were identified using generalised estimating equations.

Results

Fully adherent care was delivered to 32% of children admitted with diarrhoea, 34% of children with pneumonia and 28% of children with SM when a strict definition of adherence was applied. Non-adherence to recommendations was most common for oxygen and antibiotics for pneumonia; fluid, zinc and antibiotics for diarrhoea; and vitamin A and zinc for SM. Non-adherence varied by site. Pneumonia guideline non-adherence was more likely among patients with severe disease (OR 1.82; 95% CI 1.38, 2.34) compared with non-severe disease. Diarrhoea guideline non-adherence was more likely among lower asset quintile groups (OR 1.16; 95% CI 1.01, 1.35), older children (OR 1.10; 95% CI 1.06, 1.13) and children presenting with wasting (OR 6.44; 95% CI 4.33, 9.57) compared with those with higher assets, younger age and not wasted.

Conclusions

Non-adherence to paediatric guidelines was common and associated with older age, disease severity, and comorbidities, and lower household economic status. These findings highlight opportunities to improve guidelines by adding clarity to specific recommendations.

Diabetes care in the pandemic era in the Midwestern USA: a semi-structured interview study of the patient perspective

Por: Gonzalez Bravo · C. · Sabree · S. A. · Dukes · K. · Adeagbo · M. J. · Edwards · S. · Wainwright · K. · Schaeffer · S. E. · Villa · A. · Wilks · A. D. · Carvour · M. L.
Objectives

To understand patients’ experiences with diabetes care during the COVID-19 pandemic, with an emphasis on rural, medically underserved, and/or minoritised racial and ethnic groups in the Midwestern USA.

Design

Community-engaged, semi-structured interviews were conducted by medical student researchers trained in qualitative interviewing. Transcripts were prepared and coded in the language in which the interview was conducted (English or Spanish). Thematic analysis was conducted, and data saturation was achieved.

Setting

The study was conducted in communities in Eastern and Western Iowa.

Participants

Adults with diabetes (n=20) who were fluent in conversational English or Spanish were interviewed. One-third of participants were residents of areas designated as federal primary healthcare professional shortage areas and/or medically underserved areas, and more than half were recruited from medical clinics that offer care at no cost.

Results

Themes across both English and Spanish transcripts included: (1) perspectives of diabetes, care providers and care management; (2) challenges and barriers affecting diabetes care; and (3) participant feedback and recommendations. Participants reported major constraints related to provider availability, costs of care, access to nutrition counselling and mental health concerns associated with diabetes care during the pandemic. Participants also reported a lack of shared decision-making regarding some aspects of care, including amputation. Finally, participants recognised systems-level challenges that affected both patients and providers and expressed a preference for proactive collaboration with healthcare teams.

Conclusions

These findings support enhanced engagement of rural, medically underserved and minoritised groups as stakeholders in diabetes care, diabetes research and diabetes provider education.

RECITAL: a non-inferiority randomised control trial evaluating a virtual fracture clinic compared with in-person care for people with simple fractures (study protocol)

Por: Teng · M. J. · Zadro · J. R. · Pickles · K. · Copp · T. · Shaw · M. J. · Khoudair · I. · Horsley · M. · Warnock · B. · Hutchings · O. R. · Petchell · J. F. · Ackerman · I. N. · Drayton · A. · Liu · R. · Maher · C. G. · Traeger · A. C.
Introduction

Most simple undisplaced fractures can be managed without surgery by immobilising the limb with a splint, prescribing medication for pain, and providing advice and early rehabilitation. Recent systematic reviews based on retrospective observational studies have reported that virtual fracture clinics can deliver follow-up care that is safe and cost-effective. However, no randomised controlled trial has investigated if a virtual fracture clinic can provide non-inferior physical function outcomes compared with an in-person clinic for patients with simple fractures.

Methods and analysis

312 participants will be recruited from 2 metropolitan hospitals located in Sydney, Australia. Adult patients will be eligible if they have an acute simple fracture that can be managed with a removable splint and is deemed appropriate for follow-up at either the virtual or in-person fracture clinic by an orthopaedic doctor. Patients will not be eligible if they have a complex fracture that requires a cast or surgery. Eligible participants will be randomised to receive their follow-up care either at the virtual or the in-person fracture clinic. Participants at the virtual fracture clinic will be reviewed within 5 days of receiving a referral through video calls with a physiotherapist. Participants at the in-person fracture clinic will be reviewed by an orthopaedic doctor within 7–10 days of receiving a referral. The primary outcome will be the patient’s function measured using the Patient-Specific Functional Scale at 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes will include health-related quality of life, patient-reported experiences, pain, health cost, healthcare utilisation, medication use, adverse events, emergency department representations and surgery.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the Sydney Local Health District Ethics Review Committee (RPAH Zone) (X23-0200 and 2023/ETH01038). The trial results will be submitted for publication in a reputable international journal and will be presented at professional conferences.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12623000934640.

Pivotal relationship between heavy metal, PM2.5 exposures and tuberculosis in Bangladeshi children: protocol paper of a case-control study

Por: Haque · R. · Hanson · M. · Shariful Islam · M. · Akter · N. · Moniruzzaman · M. · Alam · M. J. · Kamruzzaman · M. · Rahman · M. · Chisti · M. J. · Raqib · R. · Rahman · S. M.
Introduction

Air pollution is a global issue that poses a significant threat to public health. Children, due to their developing physiology, are particularly susceptible to the inhalation of environmental pollutants. Exposure can trigger immune modulation and organ damage, increasing susceptibility to respiratory diseases. Therefore, we aim to examine the association between heavy metal and particulate matter exposure with tuberculosis in children.

Methods and analysis

As a case–control study, we will include children diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis (n=60) and matched healthy controls (n=80) recruited from the same communities in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Exposure data for both cases and controls will be collected by a trained field team conducting home visits. They will administer an exposure questionnaire, measure child anthropometry, collect blood and household dust samples and instal 48-hour air quality monitors. The blood samples will be analysed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry for serum heavy metal concentrations (lead, cadmium, arsenic, mercury and chromium), as a representative marker of exposure, and the presence of inflammatory biomarkers. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including independent samples t-tests, analysis of variance and conditional regression analysis, will be used to quantify heavy metal and particulate matter exposure status in tuberculosis cases compared with healthy controls, while accounting for potential confounders. Dust samples and air quality results will be analysed to understand household sources of heavy metal and particulate matter exposure. To test the study hypothesis, there is a positive association between exposure and tuberculosis diseases, we will also measure the accumulated effect of simultaneous exposures using Bayesian statistical modelling.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh’s Institutional Review Board (PR-22030). The study findings will be disseminated at conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals.

IMPAACT: IMproving the PArticipAtion of older people in policy decision-making on common health CondiTions - a study protocol

Por: Ambagtsheer · R. C. · Hurley · C. J. · Lawless · M. · Braunack-Mayer · A. · Visvanathan · R. · Beilby · J. · Stewart · S. · Cornell · V. · Leach · M. J. · Taylor · D. · Thompson · M. · Dent · E. · Whiteway · L. · Archibald · M. · O'Rourke · H. M. · Williams · K. · Chudecka · A.
Introduction

Rapid population ageing is a demographic trend being experienced and documented worldwide. While increased health screening and assessment may help mitigate the burden of illness in older people, issues such as misdiagnosis may affect access to interventions. This study aims to elicit the values and preferences of evidence-informed older people living in the community on early screening for common health conditions (cardiovascular disease, diabetes, dementia and frailty). The study will proceed in three Phases: (1) generating recommendations of older people through a series of Citizens’ Juries; (2) obtaining feedback from a diverse range of stakeholder groups on the jury findings; and (3) co-designing a set of Knowledge Translation resources to facilitate implementation into research, policy and practice. Conditions were chosen to reflect common health conditions characterised by increasing prevalence with age, but which have been underexamined through a Citizens’ Jury methodology.

Methods and analysis

This study will be conducted in three Phases—(1) Citizens’ Juries, (2) Policy Roundtables and (3) Production of Knowledge Translation resources. First, older people aged 50+ (n=80), including those from traditionally hard-to-reach and diverse groups, will be purposively recruited to four Citizen Juries. Second, representatives from a range of key stakeholder groups, including consumers and carers, health and aged care policymakers, general practitioners, practice nurses, geriatricians, allied health practitioners, pharmaceutical companies, private health insurers and community and aged care providers (n=40) will be purposively recruited for two Policy Roundtables. Finally, two researchers and six purposively recruited consumers will co-design Knowledge Translation resources. Thematic analysis will be performed on documentation and transcripts.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been obtained through the Torrens University Human Research Ethics Committee. Participants will give written informed consent. Findings will be disseminated through development of a policy brief and lay summary, peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations and seminars.

MISSION ABC: transforming respiratory care through one-stop multidisciplinary clinics - an observational study

Por: Heiden · E. · Longstaff · J. · Chauhan · M. J. A. · DeVos · R. · Lanning · E. · Neville · D. · Jones · T. L. · Begum · S. · Amos · M. · Mottershaw · M. · Micklam · J. · Holdsworth · B. · Rupani · H. · Brown · T. · Chauhan · A. J. · Mission ABC Collaborators · Baghammar · Bannell · Domin
Objectives

The Modern Innovative Solutions to Improve Outcomes in Asthma, Breathlessness and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) (MABC) service aimed to enhance disease management for chronic respiratory conditions through specialist multidisciplinary clinics, predominantly in the community. This study assesses the outcomes of these clinics.

Design

This study used a prospective, longitudinal, participatory action research approach.

Setting

The study was conducted in primary care practices across Hampshire, UK.

Participants

Adults aged 16 years and above with poorly controlled asthma or COPD, as well as those with undifferentiated breathlessness not under specialist care, were included.

Interventions

Participants received care through the multidisciplinary, specialist-led MABC clinics.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Primary outcomes included disease activity, quality of life and healthcare utilisation. Secondary outcomes encompassed clinic attendance, diagnostic changes, patient activation, participant and healthcare professional experiences and cost-effectiveness.

Results

A total of 441 participants from 11 general practitioner practices were recruited. Ninety-six per cent of participants would recommend MABC clinics. MABC assessments led to diagnosis changes for 64 (17%) participants with asthma and COPD and treatment adjustments for 252 participants (57%). Exacerbations decreased significantly from 236 to 30 after attending the clinics (p

Conclusions

Specialist-supported multidisciplinary teams in MABC clinics improved diagnosis accuracy and adherence to guidelines. High patient satisfaction, disease control improvements and reduced exacerbations resulted in decreased unscheduled healthcare use and cost savings.

Trial registration number

NCT03096509.

Cannabis for medical use versus opioids for chronic non-cancer pain: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials

Por: Jeddi · H. M. · Busse · J. W. · Sadeghirad · B. · Levine · M. · Zoratti · M. J. · Wang · L. · Noori · A. · Couban · R. J. · Tarride · J.-E.
Objective

The objective of this study is to evaluate the comparative benefits and harms of opioids and cannabis for medical use for chronic non-cancer pain.

Design

Systematic review and network meta-analysis.

Data sources

EMBASE, MEDLINE, CINAHL, AMED, PsycINFO, PubMed, Web of Science, Cannabis-Med, Epistemonikos and the Cochrane Library (CENTRAL) from inception to March 2021.

Study selection

Randomised trials comparing any type of cannabis for medical use or opioids, against each other or placebo, with patient follow-up ≥4 weeks.

Data extraction and synthesis

Paired reviewers independently extracted data. We used Bayesian random-effects network meta-analyses to summarise the evidence and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) approach to evaluate the certainty of evidence and communicate our findings.

Results

Ninety trials involving 22 028 patients were eligible for review, among which the length of follow-up ranged from 28 to 180 days. Moderate certainty evidence showed that opioids provide small improvements in pain, physical functioning and sleep quality versus placebo; low to moderate certainty evidence supported similar effects for cannabis versus placebo. Neither was more effective than placebo for role, social or emotional functioning (all high to moderate certainty evidence). Moderate certainty evidence showed there is probably little to no difference between cannabis for medical use and opioids for physical functioning (weighted mean difference (WMD) 0.47 on the 100-point 36-item Short Form Survey physical component summary score, 95% credible interval (CrI) –1.97 to 2.99), and cannabis resulted in fewer discontinuations due to adverse events versus opioids (OR 0.55, 95% CrI 0.36 to 0.83). Low certainty evidence suggested little to no difference between cannabis and opioids for pain relief (WMD 0.23 cm on a 10 cm Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), 95% CrI –0.06 to 0.53) or sleep quality (WMD 0.49 mm on a 100 mm VAS, 95% CrI –4.72 to 5.59).

Conclusions

Cannabis for medical use may be similarly effective and result in fewer discontinuations than opioids for chronic non-cancer pain.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020185184.

How can community pharmacists be supported to manage skin conditions? A multistage stakeholder research prioritisation exercise

Por: Harvey · J. · Shariff · Z. · Anderson · C. · Boyd · M. J. · Ridd · M. J. · Santer · M. · Thomas · K. S. · Maidment · I. · Leighton · P.
Objective

To establish research priorities which will support the development and delivery of community pharmacy initiatives for the management of skin conditions.

Design

An iterative, multistage stakeholder consultation consisting of online survey, participant workshops and prioritisation meeting.

Setting

All data collection took place online with participants completing a survey (delivered via the JISC Online Survey platform, between July 2021 and January 2022) and participating in online workshops and meetings (hosted on Microsoft Teams between April and July 2022).

Participants

174 community pharmacists and pharmacy staff completed the online survey.

53 participants participated in the exploratory workshops (19 community pharmacists, 4 non-pharmacist members of pharmacy staff and 30 members of the public). 4 healthcare professionals who were unable to attend a workshop participated in a one-to-one interview.

29 participants from the workshops took part in the prioritisation meeting (5 pharmacists/pharmacy staff, 1 other healthcare professional and 23 members of the public).

Results

Five broad areas of potential research need were identified in the online survey: (1) identifying and diagnosing skin conditions; (2) skin conditions in skin of colour; (3) when to refer skin conditions; (4) disease-specific concerns and (5) product-specific concerns.

These were explored and refined in the workshops to establish 10 potential areas for research, which will support pharmacists in managing skin conditions. These were ranked in the prioritisation meeting. Among those prioritised were topics which consider how pharmacists work with other healthcare professionals to identify and manage skin conditions.

Conclusions

Survey responses and stakeholder workshops all recognised the potential for community pharmacists to play an active role in the management of common skin conditions. Future research may support this in the generation of resources for pharmacists, in encouraging public take-up of pharmacy services, and in evaluating the most effective provision for dealing with skin conditions.

Key factors for effective implementation of healthcare workers support interventions after patient safety incidents in health organisations: a scoping review

Por: Guerra-Paiva · S. · Lobao · M. J. · Simoes · D. G. · Fernandes · J. · Donato · H. · Carrillo · I. · Mira · J. J. · Sousa · P.
Objectives

This study aims to map and frame the main factors present in support interventions successfully implemented in health organisations in order to provide timely and adequate response to healthcare workers (HCWs) after patient safety incidents (PSIs).

Design

Scoping review guided by the six-stage approach proposed by Arksey and O’Malley and by PRISMA-ScR.

Data sources

CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Embase, Epistemonikos, PsycINFO, PubMed, SciELO Citation Index, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, reference lists of the eligible articles, websites and a consultation group.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

Empirical studies (original articles) were prioritised. We used the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool Version 2018 to conduct a quality assessment of the eligible studies.

Data extraction and synthesis

A total of 9766 records were retrieved (last update in November 2022). We assessed 156 articles for eligibility in the full-text screening. Of these, 29 earticles met the eligibility criteria. The articles were independently screened by two authors. In the case of disagreement, a third author was involved. The collected data were organised according to the Organisational factors, People, Environment, Recommendations from other Audies, Attributes of the support interventions. We used EndNote to import articles from the databases and Rayyan to support the screening of titles and abstracts.

Results

The existence of an organisational culture based on principles of trust and non-judgement, multidisciplinary action, leadership engagement and strong dissemination of the support programmes’ were crucial factors for their effective implementation. Training should be provided for peer supporters and leaders to facilitate the response to HCWs’ needs. Regular communication among the implementation team, allocation of protected time, funding and continuous monitoring are useful elements to the sustainability of the programmes.

Conclusion

HCWs’ well-being depends on an adequate implementation of a complex group of interrelated factors to support them after PSIs.

Contribution of hospitals and clinical services to global warming: protocol for a scoping review

Por: Merino-Urrutia · W. · Carcamo-Fuentes · C. · Pena · M. · Martinez-Zapata · M. J.
Introduction

Climate change is one of the greatest threats to public health today, placing considerable pressure on the healthcare sector. During patient care processes, hospital facilities contribute to greenhouse gas emissions through the use of greater resources and higher energy consumption. Consequently, there is growing interest among researchers, universities, organisations and governments to study the impact of the healthcare sector on the environment and to develop strategies to mitigate its effects. The aim of this scoping review is to determine the extent and nature of current literature on global warming from hospitals and clinical services, and ways in which they contribute to its effect. Planning and execution of future research are possible once those areas with existing gaps are identified.

Methods and analysis

A broad literature search will be carried out to illustrate the ways in which hospitals and clinical services, processes and activities contribute to climate change. Our protocol was drafted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews. The final protocol was registered prospectively with the Open Science Framework. All identified studies indexed in Medline, Scopus and Embase will be examined.

Ethics and dissemination

This project is literature-based research; therefore, it does not require ethical approval. The results will be presented to researchers as well as policymakers in this particular area, via conferences, webinars, podcasts and online events. A peer-reviewed publication will be submitted to specific journals of interest.

Prison is a barrier to high-quality, comprehensive midwifery care

Por: Paynter · M. J.

Commentary on: Abbott L, Scott T, Thomas H. Experiences of midwifery care in English prisons. Birth. 2023 Mar;50(1):244-251. doi: 10.1111/birt.12692. Epub 2022 Nov 12.

Implications for practice and research

  • Incarceration presents barriers to best midwifery practices, restricting patient choice in care provider and place of birth. Midwives play an important role advocating for incarcerated patients.

  • Prison staff misunderstand midwifery and conceptualise access to care as a reward for good behaviour. Future research should assess outcomes of alternatives to incarceration.

  • Context

    Women continue to be one of the fastest growing populations experiencing incarceration, with significant consequences for their newborns and children. Despite international and national requirements for equivalent care to what is available in community, existing research in the field of prison perinatal health has found delays and gaps in care and poor neonatal outcomes associated with pregnancy in prison.1 This study by...

    Ischaemic stroke in patients with diabetes requiring urgent procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea: a retrospective, nationwide, population-based cohort study using data from the National Emergency Department Information System

    Por: Park · M. J. · Hwang · J. · Ahn · J. · Park · S. J. · Song · E. · Jang · A. · Choi · K. M. · Baik · S. H. · Yoo · H. J.
    Objectives

    The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in suboptimal care for ischaemic stroke. Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), a high-risk group for stroke, had compromised routine care during the pandemic, which increases the chance of stroke. We examined influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the management of ischaemic stroke in patients with DM in South Korea.

    Design

    Retrospective, nationwide, population-based cohort study.

    Setting

    Data from the National Emergency Department Information System.

    Participants

    We analysed 11 734 patients diagnosed with acute ischaemic stroke who underwent intravenous thrombolysis or endovascular thrombectomy between 2019 (the reference year) and 2020 (the pandemic year). Among them, 1014 subjects with DM were analysed separately.

    Outcome measures

    The frequency of emergency department (ED) visits, time from symptom onset to ED, from ED visit to admission and in-hospital mortality were compared between two periods in the overall population and in patients with DM.

    Results

    During the pandemic, the incidence of ischaemic stroke requiring urgent procedures increased by 7.57% in total and by 9.03% in patients with DM. Time delay from symptom onset to ED (reference vs pandemic, total: 1.50 vs 1.55 hours; p

    Conclusions

    During the COVID-19 pandemic, the incidence of ischaemic stroke requiring urgent procedures increased, and older patients with DM showed a higher ICU admission rate. However, the pandemic was not associated with an increased in-hospital stroke mortality.

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