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Hoy — Mayo 14th 2024Tus fuentes RSS

Paediatric off-label use of drugs in Gansu, China: a multicentre cross-sectional study

Por: Meng · M. · Ge · B. · Lei · W. · Wu · Y. · Tian · M. · Lu · Y. · Shao · T. · Yang · Y. · Luo · X. · Luo · J. · Gao · Y. · Li · Q. · Chen · Y.
Objective

To examine the current prevalence and cost of paediatric off-label drug prescriptions in Gansu, China, and the potential influencing factors.

Design

The prevalence of off-label prescriptions in paediatrics was evaluated according to the National Medical Products Administration drug instructions in the China Pharmaceutical Reference (China Pharmaceutical Reference, MCDEX) database. The evidence of the prescription was determined by existing clinical practice guidelines and the Thomson Grade in the Micromedex 2021 compendium. We used logistic regression to investigate the characteristics that influence paediatric off-label drug use after single-factor regression analysis.

Setting

A multicentre cross-sectional study of outpatient paediatric prescriptions in 196 secondary and tertiary hospitals in Gansu Province, China, in March and September 2020.

Results

We retrieved 104 029 paediatric prescriptions, of which 39 480 (38.0%) contained off-label use. The most common diseases treated by off-label drugs were respiratory system diseases (n=15 831, 40.1%). A quarter of off-label prescriptions had adequate evidence basis (n=10 130, 25.6%). Unapproved indications were the most common type of off-label drug use (n=25 891, 65.6%). A total of 1177 different drugs were prescribed off-label, with multienzyme tablets being the most common drug (n=1790, 3.5%). The total cost of the prescribed off-label drugs was ¥106 116/day. Off-label prescriptions were less frequent in tertiary than in secondary hospitals. Topical preparations were more commonly prescribed off-label than other types of drugs. Senior-level clinicians prescribed drugs off-label more often than intermediate and junior clinicians.

Conclusion

Off-label drug use is widespread in paediatric practice in China. Three-quarters of the prescriptions may potentially include inappropriate medication use, resulting in a daily economic burden of about ¥81 000 in 2020 in Gansu Province with 25 million inhabitants. The management of off-label drug use in paediatrics in China needs improvement.

Perfusion outcomes with near-infrared indocyanine green imaging system in laparoscopic total mesorectal excision for mid-rectal or low-rectal cancer (POSTER): a study protocol

Por: Sun · L. · Gao · J. · Wu · G. · Meng · C. · Yang · Z. · Wei · P. · Yao · H. · Zhang · Z.
Introduction

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is defined as the failure of complete healing or disruption of the anastomosis subsequent to rectal cancer surgery, resulting in the extravasation of intestinal contents into the intra-abdominal or pelvic cavity. It is a serious complication of rectal cancer surgery, accounting for a considerable increase in morbidity and mortality. The use of fluorescence imaging technology in surgery allows surgeons to better evaluate blood perfusion. However, the conclusions of some existing studies are not consistent, so a consensus on whether the near-infrared indocyanine green (NIR–ICG) imaging system can reduce the incidence of AL is needed.

Methods

This POSTER trial is designed as a multicentre, prospective, randomised controlled clinical study adhering to the "population, interventions, comparisons, outcomes (PICO)" principles. It is scheduled to take place from August 2019 to December 2024 across eight esteemed hospitals in China. The target population consists of patients diagnosed with rectal cancer through pathological confirmation, with tumours located≤10 cm from the anal verge, eligible for laparoscopic surgery. Enrolled patients will be randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the control group. The intervention group will receive intravenous injections of ICG twice, with intraoperative assessment of anastomotic blood flow using the near-infrared NIR–ICG system during total mesorectal excision (TME) surgery. Conversely, the control group will undergo conventional TME surgery without the use of the NIR-ICG system. A 30-day follow-up period postoperation will be conducted to monitor and evaluate occurrences of AL. The primary endpoint of this study is the incidence of AL within 30 days postsurgery in both groups. The primary outcome investigators will be blinded to the application of ICG angiography. Based on prior literature, we hypothesise an AL rate of 10.3% in the control group and 3% in the experimental group for this study. With a planned ratio of 2:1 between the number of cases in the experimental and control groups, and an expected 20% lost-to-follow-up rate, the initial estimated sample size for this study is 712, comprising 474 in the experimental group and 238 in the control group.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by Ethics committee of Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University (approval number: 2019-P2-055-02). The results will be disseminated in major international conferences and peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

NCT04012645.

Characterization of a full‐thickness decellularized and lyophilized human placental membrane for clinical applications

Abstract

Allografts derived from live-birth tissue obtained with donor consent have emerged as an important treatment option for wound and soft tissue repairs. Placental membrane derived from the amniotic sac consists of the amnion and chorion, the latter of which contains the trophoblast layer. For ease of cleaning and processing, these layers are often separated with or without re-lamination and the trophoblast layer is typically discarded, both of which can negatively affect the abundance of native biological factors and make the grafts difficult to handle. Thus, a full-thickness placental membrane that includes a fully-intact decellularized trophoblast layer was developed for homologous clinical use as a protective barrier and scaffold in soft tissue repairs. Here, we demonstrate that this full-thickness placental membrane is effectively decellularized while retaining native extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffold and biological factors, including the full trophoblast layer. Following processing, it is porous, biocompatible, supports cell proliferation in vitro, and retains its biomechanical strength and the ability to pass through a cannula without visible evidence of movement or damage. Finally, it was accepted as a natural scaffold in vivo with evidence of host-cell infiltration, angiogenesis, tissue remodelling, and structural layer retention for up to 10 weeks in a murine subcutaneous implant model.

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Prevalence of multidrug‐resistant bacterial infections in diabetic foot ulcers: A meta‐analysis

Abstract

Multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections have become increasingly common in recent years due to the increased prevalence of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). We carried out a meta-analysis aimed at investigating the prevalence of MDR bacteria isolated from DFUs and analysing the risk factors for MDR bacterial infection in patients with DFUs. The PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, Ovid, Scopus, and ProQuest databases were searched for studies published up to November 2023 on the clinical outcomes of MDR bacteria in DFUs. The main outcome was the prevalence of MDR bacteria in DFUs. A total of 21 studies were included, representing 4885 patients from which 2633 MDR bacterial isolates were obtained. The prevalence of MDR bacteria in DFUs was 50.86% (95% confidence interval (CI): 41.92%–59.78%). The prevalence of MDR gram-positive bacteria (GPB) in DFUs was 19.81% (95% CI: 14.35%–25.91%), and the prevalence of MDR gram-negative bacteria (GNB) in DFUs was 32.84% (95% CI: 26.40%–39.62%). MDR Staphylococcus aureus (12.13% (95% CI: 8.79%–15.91%)) and MDR Enterococcus spp. (3.33% (95% CI: 1.92%–5.07%)) were the main MDR-GPB in DFUs. MDR Escherichia coli, MDR Pseudomonas aeruginosa, MDR Enterobacter spp., MDR Klebsiella pneumoniae, and MDR Proteus mirabilis were the main MDR-GNB in DFUs. The prevalence rates were 6.93% (95% CI: 5.15%–8.95%), 6.01% (95% CI: 4.03%–8.33%), 3.59% (95% CI: 0.42%–9.30%), 3.50% (95% CI: 2.31%–4.91%), and 3.27% (95% CI: 1.74%–5.21%), respectively. The clinical variables of diabetic foot ulcer patients infected with MDR bacteria and non-MDR bacteria in the included studies were analysed. The results showed that peripheral vascular disease, peripheral neuropathy, nephropathy, osteomyelitis, Wagner's grade, previous hospitalization and previous use of antibacterial drugs were significantly different between the MDR bacterial group and the non-MDR bacterial group. We concluded that there is a high prevalence of MDR bacterial infections in DFUs. The prevalence of MDR-GNB was greater than that of MDR-GPB in DFUs. MDR S. aureus was the main MDR-GPB in DFUs, and MDR E. coli was the main MDR-GNB in DFUs. Our study also indicated that peripheral vascular disease, peripheral neuropathy, nephropathy, osteomyelitis, Wagner's grade, previous hospitalization, and previous use of antibacterial drugs were associated with MDR bacterial infections in patients with DFUs.

Identifying a group of factors predicting cognitive impairment among older adults

by Longgang Zhao, Yuan Wang, Eric Mishio Bawa, Zichun Meng, Jingkai Wei, Sarah Newman-Norlund, Tushar Trivedi, Hatice Hasturk, Roger D. Newman-Norlund, Julius Fridriksson, Anwar T. Merchant

Background

Cognitive impairment has multiple risk factors spanning several domains, but few studies have evaluated risk factor clusters. We aimed to identify naturally occurring clusters of risk factors of poor cognition among middle-aged and older adults and evaluate associations between measures of cognition and these risk factor clusters.

Methods

We used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) III (training dataset, n = 4074) and the NHANES 2011–2014 (validation dataset, n = 2510). Risk factors were selected based on the literature. We used both traditional logistic models and support vector machine methods to construct a composite score of risk factor clusters. We evaluated associations between the risk score and cognitive performance using the logistic model by estimating odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

Using the training dataset, we developed a composite risk score that predicted undiagnosed cognitive decline based on ten selected predictive risk factors including age, waist circumference, healthy eating index, race, education, income, physical activity, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, and annual visit to dentist. The risk score was significantly associated with poor cognitive performance both in the training dataset (OR Tertile 3 verse tertile 1 = 8.15, 95% CI: 5.36–12.4) and validation dataset (OR Tertile 3 verse tertile 1 = 4.31, 95% CI: 2.62–7.08). The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve for the predictive model was 0.74 and 0.77 for crude model and model adjusted for age, sex, and race.

Conclusion

The model based on selected risk factors may be used to identify high risk individuals with cognitive impairment.

Factors associated with health behaviours among stroke survivors: A mixed‐methods study using COM‐B model

Abstract

Aims

To identify factors associated with health behaviours among stroke survivors, through a multi-centre study.

Design

A sequential mixed methods design.

Methods

In the quantitative research phase, a total of 350 participants were recruited through multi-stage sampling from December 2022 to June 2023. General information questionnaires, The Stroke Prevention Knowledge Questionnaire (SPKQ), Short Form Health Belief Model Scale (SF-HBMS), Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile (HPLPII), and the WHOQOL-BREF (World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire, Brief Version) were distributed across five tertiary hospitals in Henan province, China. For the qualitative research component, semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore the barriers and facilitators of health behaviour. This study adheres to the GRAMMS guidelines.

Results

A total of 315 participants (90.0%) completed the survey. Identified barriers to health behaviour included residing in rural areas, higher scores on the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) and mRS, as well as lower scores on SPKQ, SF-HBMS and WHOQOL-BREF. Twenty-four individuals participated in qualitative interviews. Twenty-eight themes were identified and categorised by frequency, covering areas such as knowledge, skills, intentions, social influences, social/professional role and identity, environmental context and resources, beliefs about capabilities, beliefs about consequences and behavioural regulation. Both quantitative and qualitative data suggested that health behaviour among stroke survivors is at a moderate level, and the identified barrier factors can be mapped into the COM-B model (Capability, Opportunity, Motivation and Behaviour).

Conclusion

The study indicates that key barriers to health behaviour among stroke survivors align with the COM-B model. These identified factors should be carefully considered in the planning of future systematic interventions aimed at improving health behaviours among stroke survivors.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients were invited to completed questionnaires in the study and semi-structured interviews. The investigators provided explanation of this study’ content, purpose and addressed issues during the data collection.

Study on the risk factors of postoperative wound complications in patients with ankle fracture

Abstract

Wound complications after surgery for ankle fractures can lead to catastrophic consequences. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the risk factors of postoperative wound complications in patients with ankle fracture and to determine their effects on prognosis. 200 patients with ankle fracture treated in our hospital from October 2021 to December 2023 were analysed retrospectively. The total incidence of postoperative wound complications was 19% (38/200). Type of complications: wound edge necrosis 15 cases (39.47%), dehiscence (reopening of wound) 13 cases (34.21%), delayed healing (>30 days) 10 cases (26.32%); Univariate analysis showed that patients' age, body mass index (BMI), current smoking, alcoholism, diabetes mellitus, injury mechanism, open fracture, wound classification, higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score and operation time were all associated with postoperative wound complications. Multivariate Logistic regression model shows: age ≥60 years old OR3.671 (1.875–5.937), BMI OR1.198 (1.143–1.324), current smoking OR2.727 (1.251–5.602), alcoholism OR1.143 (1.034–1.267), complicated with diabetes OR2.763 (1.236–4.852), injury mechanism (high vs. low and medium energy) OR2.437 (1.238–4.786), open fracture OR1.943 (1.8262.139), wound classification (II vs. I) OR4.423 (1.73511.674), ASA score (III–IV vs. I–II) OR1.307 (1.113–2.194) was an independent risk factor for postoperative wound complications in patients with ankle fracture. Further, ROC curves showed that these nine independent influences had high accuracy and validity in predicting postoperative wound complications in patients with ankle fractures. In conclusion, independent risk factors for postoperative complications of ankle fracture were age >60 years, BMI, injury mechanism, open fracture, wound classification (II vs. I), ASA score, current smoking, and alcoholism. The wound classification (II vs. I) has the highest diagnostic value.

Evaluating the impact of recombinant human epidermal growth factor on scar formation in oral and maxillofacial traumatic wound healing

Abstract

Scarring following oral and maxillofacial trauma can have significant aesthetic and functional repercussions. Recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) has emerged as a potential therapeutic agent to enhance wound healing and minimise scar formation. This retrospective study analysed data from March 2020 to June 2023 at a single institution. A total of 105 patients were divided into a control group (n = 70) receiving standard treatment and an observation group (n = 35) receiving standard treatment plus rhEGF. The primary outcomes were the incidence of scar hyperplasia and infection rates, with the secondary outcome being scar aesthetics measured by the visual analogue scale (VAS). No significant differences were found in baseline characteristics between the two groups. The observation group showed a significant reduction in scar hyperplasia (14.3% vs. 57.1%, χ 2 = 20.98, p < 0.01) and infection rates (5.7% vs. 21.4%, χ 2 = 4.246, p < 0.05) compared to the control group. VAS scores indicated a superior aesthetic outcome in the observation group at all post-treatment timepoints (p < 0.01). rhEGF treatment in oral and maxillofacial trauma patients resulted in favourable healing outcomes and reduced scar formation, improving aesthetic results. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of rhEGF and underscore the need for larger-scale trials to further investigate its benefits.

Complications and psychological impact of pressure ulcers on patients and caregivers

Abstract

Pressure ulcers are persistent skin lesions that have substantial detrimental effects on the physical well-being of patients. Moreover, their psychological ramifications for both patients and their caregivers are becoming more widely acknowledged. This research was conducted to examine the psychological ramifications of pressure ulcers and ascertain efficacious approaches to mitigate these effects and improve overall well-being. A cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2022 to December 2023 across tertiary care centres located in Beijing. The cohort consisted of 431 participants, which included primary caregivers and patients who were diagnosed with pressure ulcers. The data were gathered through the utilization of structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. These methods encompassed demographic details, clinical characteristics and validated scales that assessed psychological parameters, including quality of life, anxiety, stress and depression. The research exposed substantial psychological toll on both individuals receiving care and those providing care, with caregivers enduring diminished quality of life and elevated levels of anxiety, depression and stress (p < 0.05). A significant positive correlation was identified between the degree of psychological distress and severity of pressure ulcers (p < 0.05). Both location of the ulcer and duration of care were substantial contributors to the psychological burden (p < 0.05). In spite of the apparent necessity, a significant proportion of the participants refrained from obtaining psychological counselling. The results underscored the significant psychological ramifications of pressure ulcers for both individuals receiving care and the caregivers. As a result, comprehensive care strategies that incorporate psychological assistance into the prescribed treatment plan are imperative. This research highlighted the criticality of implementing all-encompassing, interdisciplinary approaches to tackle the complex issues presented by pressure ulcers in an effort to enhance the general welfare of those influences.

Tools to measure the burden on informal caregivers of cancer patients: A literature review

Abstract

Objectives

(1) To describe existing tools to assess the burden of informal caregivers of people with cancer, (2) to describe how these tools have been validated and (3) to describe the areas of interest of existing assessment tool entries.

Background

The caregiver burden of informal caregivers of people with cancer greatly affects their lives. There is a wide variety of relevant assessment tools available, but there are no studies to help researchers to select tools.

Methods

A search was conducted using the keywords ‘cancer’, ‘caregiver’, ‘burden’ and ‘scale’ in Medline (PubMed), CINAHL and EMBASE to include articles that developed or applied tools to assess the burden on informal caregivers of cancer patients. Once eligible tools were identified, we searched their ‘primary reference’ studies. If the original scale was assessed in a population other than informal caregivers of cancer patients, we again searched for psychometric measures in the population of caregivers of cancer patients.

Results

This study retrieved 938 articles on developing or applying the informal caregiver burden instrument for cancer patients, including 42 scales. Internal consistency of the original scales ranged from 0.53 to 0.96. Nineteen scales initially developed to assess caregiver burden for patients with dementia, stroke and other disorders were later used for caregivers of cancer patients, eight of which have not yet been validated. Reclassifying all scale domains of concern revealed that scale assessments focused more on caregivers' physical health, emotional state and caregiving tasks.

Conclusion

This review identifies many scales for assessing informal caregiver burden in cancer patients and gives scales recommended. However, a portion still needs to be validated. The development of a new scale proposes to be based on a theoretical framework and to consider dimensions for assessing support resources.

Impact

What problem did the study address?: This paper collates assessment tools on the burden of informal carers of people with cancer. It also provides information on the applicable population, reliability and validity.

What were the main findings?: 41 scales could be considered for use, eight of which have not been validated. The scales focus more on assessing caregivers' physical health, emotional state and caregiving tasks, and less on the dimension of support resources.

Where and on whom will the research have an impact?: There are implications for informal carers of cancer patients in hospitals or in the community, as well as for relevant researchers.

Reporting Method

Retrieved with reference to systematic evaluation.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

A study to untangle the puzzle of urinary incontinence and frailty co‐occurrence among older adults: The roles of depression and activity engagement

Abstract

Aims

To explore the co-occurrence of urinary incontinence and frailty by testing the roles of depression and activity engagement guided by the mechanisms of common cause and interaction pathways.

Design

A secondary analysis of a 1-year three-wave panel data collected from older nursing home residents in China.

Methods

Changes in depression and activity engagement were regressed on urinary incontinence and frailty incidence underpinned by the common cause mechanism of chronic conditions co-occurrence, and these changes were also taken as mediators linking from frailty to urinary incontinence incidence supported by the interaction pathways' mechanism.

Results

A total of 348 older adults were included in this study, and 55.7% were women. The co-occurrence of urinary incontinence and frailty was found in 16.7% of the participants at baseline. Older adults with sole frailty at baseline had almost twice the rate of incident urinary incontinence (32.7%) compared with those without (16.7%) over a 1-year period. The subsample analyses showed that changes in depression and activity engagement failed to significantly predict the incidence of urinary incontinence and frailty. The mediating roles of these changes linking frailty to urinary incontinence incidence were also not statistically significant.

Conclusion

The co-occurrence of urinary incontinence and frailty is prevalent in older nursing home residents. Older adults with frailty at baseline are more likely to develop urinary incontinence a year later. The common cause and interaction pathways mechanisms for the co-occurrence of urinary incontinence and frailty were not verified with changes in depression and activity engagement.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

The phenomenon of urinary incontinence and frailty co-occurrence should be given extreme emphasis. Although statistically significant findings on the roles of depression and activity engagement were not inferred, this study provides multiple possibilities for future studies to test and depict a clear picture of this co-occurrence.

Impact

What problem did the study address? This study was designed to test the roles of depression and activity engagement in predicting the incidence of urinary incontinence and frailty, and the mediating roles in linking frailty to urinary incontinence incidence. What were the main findings? Despite the methodological pitfalls in literature have been addressed, neither depression nor activity engagement would significantly predict the incidence of urinary incontinence and frailty in older adults. Their mediating roles in linking frailty to urinary incontinence incidence were also not significant. Where and on whom will the research have an impact? Our findings add important pieces of evidence to promote researchers‘ understanding and provide an important basis for untangling the puzzle of urinary incontinence and frailty co-occurrence.

Reporting Method

The report of this study followed the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) statement guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

The impact of inflammatory biomarkers on amputation rates in patients with diabetic foot ulcers

Abstract

Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFUs) are a major complication of diabetes, often leading to amputation. Understanding the relationship between haematological inflammatory markers and the incidence of amputation in DFU patients with infectious complications is crucial for improving management and outcomes. This retrospective study, conducted from May 2020 to October 2022, involved 109 patients with DFUs, categorised into amputation (AM) and non-amputation (NAM) groups. Patients were evaluated for various factors, including demographic data, DFU duration, and blood parameters such as haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), haemoglobin (Hb), albumin (ALB), white blood cell count (WBC), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), procalcitonin (PCT), C-reactive protein (CRP), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR). Statistical analyses were performed using independent sample t-tests, Mann–Whitney U test and logistic regression. The univariate analysis showed no significant difference in BMI, DM duration or DFU duration between groups. However, significant differences were noted in PCT, Hb, ESR, ALB, HbA1c and WBC levels, and in inflammatory ratios (NLR, PLR and LMR). Multivariate logistic regression identified CRP, NLR and PLR as independent risk factors for amputation. The study highlights CRP, PLR and NLR as key independent risk factors for amputation in patients with DFUs. These easily obtainable markers from routine blood tests can effectively aid in predicting the risk of osteomyelitis and amputation, enhancing clinical decision making and patient care strategies.

The perceived helpfulness and acceptability of a bespoke psychological therapy service for registered nurses experiencing psychological distress: A qualitative study

Abstract

Aim

To understand the perceived helpfulness and acceptability of a bespoke psychological therapy service for registered nurses. The service provided a free and confidential specialist mental health service to all healthcare professionals, including nurses and nursing students.

Design

An exploratory study using a descriptive qualitative approach.

Methods

A purposive sample of 20 registered nurses accessing a bespoke psychological therapy service in Wales participated in audio-recorded semi-structured interviews in January 2022. Transcribed data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Four interrelated themes were identified from the data analysis: COVID [SARS-CoV-2] changed things; You're a nurse, you're human; I've got ‘me’ back; and pretty close to miracle workers.

Conclusion

Participants attempted to live up to an idealized image of a nurse, generating self-stigmatizing beliefs that negatively affected their mental health. The psychological therapy service enabled participants to put their roles into perspective, that is, separate themselves from their role, be vulnerable, and develop confidence and adaptive coping strategies. Participants valued the minimal barriers and ease of access to support.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

The complex relationship between nurse identity and the challenges of the workplace needs to be central to nurse education. Nurses can benefit from rapid access to a timely, confidential, and independent self-referring psychological therapy service.

Impact

This qualitative study explored the helpfulness and accessibility of psychological support for nurses. The main themes were that COVID changed things; You're a nurse, you're human; I've got ‘me’ back; and pretty close to miracle workers. The findings will impact how nurses are supported in the United Kingdom and worldwide.

Reporting Method

This report adheres to the standards for reporting qualitative research (SRQR).

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Relationship between social isolation and glycaemic control of people previously diagnosed with diabetes: secondary analysis from the CHARLS

Por: Lu · Q. · Qu · L. · Xie · C. · Shu · Y. · Gao · F. · Zou · M. · Fan · X. · Luo · X. · Meng · J. · Xue · Y. · Cao · Y.
Objectives

Social isolation may affect diabetes self-management. This study aimed to explore the relations between social isolation and glycaemic control in patients with diabetes and to explore lifestyle differences among individuals with different levels of social isolation.

Methods

The relevant data of 665 people previously diagnosed with diabetes included in the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study from 2011 to 2015 were extracted and analysed. The study included patient general information, blood glucose, lipids, glycosylated haemoglobin, social isolation index, health-related lifestyle factors and diabetes-related factors. Differences in metabolic abnormalities and modifiable lifestyles were compared among patients with varying levels of social isolation.

Results

Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated that among men aged 45–64 years, the high social isolation group had significantly higher glycosylated haemoglobin levels compared with the low isolation group (7.29±1.81 vs 6.59±1.63, p=0.026). A positive correlation was observed between social isolation and blood glucose (β=14.16; 95% CI 2.75 to 25.57; p=0.015) and glycosylated haemoglobin (β=0.35; 95% CI 0.10 to 0.60; p=0.006), indicating that higher social isolation was associated with higher fasting blood glucose and glycosylated haemoglobin levels. However, no significant associations were observed in other age groups. Notably, men aged 45–65 years with high social isolation had higher depression rates (44.10% vs 24.60%, p=0.024), lower engagement in moderate exercise (5.70% vs 23.50%, p=0.019) and shorter 10-minute walks (17.10% vs 36.80%, p=0.027). Differences in other health-related and diabetes-related factors were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Middle-aged men with diabetes with higher social isolation tend to have higher blood glucose and glycosylated haemoglobin levels. This subset of patients requires targeted attention to provide social support from family and friends for improved glycaemic control. If necessary, education on diabetes should be made available to family members and friends.

Analysis of factors associated with needlestick injuries of clinical nurses by applying a human factor analysis and classification system: A nationwide cross‐sectional survey

Abstract

Aims

This study aims to investigate the current situation of needlestick injuries (NSIs) of clinical nurses and identify associated factors by using the theoretical framework of the human factors analysis and classification system (HFACS).

Design

A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted.

Methods

Multi-stage sampling was used to investigate 3336 nurses in 14 Chinese hospitals. Descriptive statistics and univariate and multivariate logistic regression were employed to reveal the rate of NSIs and their associated factors.

Results

A total of 970 nurses (29.1%) reported having experienced at least one NSI in the past year. The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that good hospital safety climate and clinical nurses in intensive care unit (ICU) and emergency department had protective effects against NSIs compared with nurses in internal medicine department. The nurse, senior nurse, and nurse in charge have significantly increased the risk for NSIs compared with the associate chief nurse or above. Patients with poor vision but wearing glasses and poor vision but not wearing glasses were more prone to have NSIs. Working in the operating room compared with internal medicine, average weekly working time of >45 h compared with ≤40 h and poor general health led to increased risk of NSIs.

Conclusion

The rate of NSIs in clinical nurses was high in China. Individual factors including professional title, department, visual acuity and general mental health and organisational factors including weekly working hours and hospital safety atmosphere were significantly correlated with the occurrence of NSIs.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Nursing managers should focused on physical and psychological conditions of clinical nurses, and organisational support is required to enhance the hospital safety atmosphere.

No Patient or Public Contribution

Contributions from patients or the public are irrelevant because this study aims to explore current situation and factors associated with NSIs in clinical nurses.

Effects of predictive nursing interventions on pressure ulcer in older bedridden patients: A meta‐analysis

Abstract

To evaluate the effect of predictive nursing interventions on pressure ulcers in elderly bedridden patients by meta-analysis. Applied computer searches of PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and Wanfang databases for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on the effect of predictive nursing in preventing pressure ulcers in elderly bedridden patients from the database inception to November 2023. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted data and performed quality assessment based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Stata 17.0 software was utilised for data analysis. Eighteen RCTs involving 6504 patients were finally included. The analysis revealed the implementation of predictive nursing interventions had a significant advantage in reducing the incidence of pressure ulcers in elderly bedridden patients compared with conventional nursing (odds ratio [OR] = 0.20, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.15–0.28, p < 0.001), while the patients' satisfaction with nursing care was higher (OR = 3.70, 95% CI: 2.99–4.57, p < 0.001). This study shows that the implementation of a predictive nursing interventions for elderly bedridden patients can effectively reduce the occurrence of pressure ulcers and significantly improve patients' satisfaction with nursing care, which is worthy of clinical promotion and application.

Effectiveness of educational interventions in reducing the stigma of healthcare professionals and healthcare students towards mental illness: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

Abstract

Aim

To examine the effectiveness of educational interventions in reducing stigma among healthcare professionals and students towards people with mental illness.

Design

A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cluster RCTs.

Data Sources

Articles published from database inception to October 2023 were systematically searched from seven databases (CINAHL, Embase, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global, PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science), following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.

Methods

Random-effect meta-analyses were conducted. Heterogeneity was evaluated using the I 2 statistics and Cochran's Q chi-squared test. A quality appraisal conducted at the study level used the Cochrane risk of bias tool and an outcome-level quality assessment utilized the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation Approach. Publication bias was assessed using the funnel plot.

Results

Twenty-five articles were included in this review. Meta-analysis reported statistically significant medium and small effect sizes for attitudes towards mental illness and attitudes towards people with mental illness respectively, showing the association between educational interventions and improved attitudes among healthcare professionals and students. However, a statistically non-significant effect was reported for knowledge of mental illness. Subgroup analyses indicated that face-to-face and contact-based interventions were particularly effective at reducing stigma. Notably, single-session interventions were just as effective as multiple sessions, suggesting a potential for resource-efficient approaches.

Conclusion

Educational interventions demonstrate promise in fostering more positive attitudes towards mental health issues. Future research should aim to determine the long-term effects of these interventions and include patient feedback on the stigmatizing behaviours of healthcare professionals and students, to holistically evaluate the effect of interventions.

No Patient or Public Contribution

This study is a secondary review and does not require relevant contributions from patients or the public.

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

Face-to-face contact-based educational sessions have proven to be the most effective. Reinforcing learning may be achieved through a series of repeated single-session interventions.

Risk factors for medical adhesive-related skin injury at the site of peripherally inserted central venous catheter placement in patients with cancer: a single-centre prospective study from China

Por: Qi · M. · Qin · Y. · Meng · S. · Feng · N. · Meng · Y.
Objectives

This study aims to explore the incidence of, and risk factors for medical adhesive-related skin injury (MARSI) at peripherally inserted central venous catheter (PICC) sites in patients with cancer.

Design

A prospective observational cohort study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Shenzhen, China.

Setting

This was a single-centre study conducted in a tertiary hospital in Shenzhen, China.

Participants

A total of 340 patients with cancer and PICC placement from January 2022 to June 2023 were selected using a convenience sampling method.

Methods

Factors potentially associated with PICC-related MARSI (PICC-MARSI) were recorded, including patient demographics, and catheter placement and maintenance. Patients were divided into MARSI and non-MARSI groups. Univariate analysis was performed to screen for associated variables, and logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent risk factors for PICC-MARSI.

Results

Of all 340 patients enrolled, 33 (9.7%) developed PICC-MARSI, including skin tear (8, 24.2%), tension injury (5, 15.2%), irritant contact dermatitis (10, 30.3%), allergic dermatitis (7, 21.2%) and maceration (3, 9.1%). Multivariable analysis showed that age (OR=1.058, p=0.001, 95% CI 1.023–1.094), wet skin (OR=4.873, p=0.003, 95% CI 1.728–13.742), dry skin (OR=6.247, p

Conclusions

Proper catheter maintenance and appropriate dressing selection are crucial for the prevention of this condition.

Meta‐analysis on the impact of immune senescence: Unravelling the interplay in cutaneous wound healing and lung cancer progression

Abstract

The primary objective of this meta-analysis was to provide the comprehensive understanding of the intricate correlation that existed between immune senescence and its effects on the advancement of lung cancer as well as recovery of cutaneous wounds. By conducting this systematic review of six rigorous studies utilizing databases such as PubMed and Web of Science, this research examined the multitude of facets pertaining to immune aging and consequences it bear on the health outcomes. The incorporated studies encompassed wide range of geographical and methodological viewpoints, with the specific emphasis on non-small-cell lung cancer and diverse scenarios related to wound recovery. This analysis synthesized discoveries regarding therapeutic responses, cellular and molecular mechanisms and impact of lifestyle factors on immune senescence. The findings suggested that immune senescence has substantial impact on the effectiveness of treatments for lung cancer and cutaneous wounds healing process; therefore, targeted therapies and holistic approaches may be able to mitigate these effects. By following the revised PRISMA guidelines, this meta-analysis guarantee thorough and ethically sound methodology for amalgamating pre-existing literature. The study concluded by emphasizing the critical nature of comprehending immune senescence in the context of clinical practice and proposed avenues for further investigation to enhance health results among the elderly.

Ceragenin-coated endotracheal tubes for the reduction of ventilator-associated pneumonia: a prospective, longitudinal, cross-over, interrupted time, implementation study protocol (CEASE VAP study)

Por: Symonds · N. E. · Meng · E. X. M. · Boyd · J. G. · Boyd · T. · Day · A. · Hobbs · H. · Maslove · D. M. · Norman · P. A. · Semrau · J. S. · Sibley · S. · Muscedere · J.
Background

Critically ill patients are at high risk of acquiring ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), which occurs in approximately 20% of mechanically ventilated patients. VAP results either from aspiration of pathogen-contaminated oropharyngeal secretions or contaminated biofilms that form on endotracheal tubes (ETTs) after intubation. VAP results in increased duration of mechanical ventilation, increased intensive care unit and hospital length of stay, increased risk of death and increased healthcare costs. Because of its impact on patient outcomes and the healthcare system, VAP is regarded as an important patient safety issue and there is an urgent need for better evidence on the efficacy of prevention strategies. Modified ETTs that reduce aspiration of oropharyngeal secretions with subglottic secretion drainage or reduce the occurrence of biofilm with a coating of ceragenins (CSAs) are available for clinical use in Canada. In this implementation study, we will evaluate the efficacy of these two types of Health Canada-licensed ETTs on the occurrence of VAP, and impact on patient-centred outcomes.

Methods

In this ongoing, pragmatic, prospective, longitudinal, interrupted time, cross-over implementation study, we will compare the efficacy of a CSA-coated ETT (CeraShield N8 Pharma) with an ETT with subglottic secretion drainage (Taper Guard, Covidien). The study periods consist of four alternating time periods of 11 or 12 weeks or a total of 23 weeks for each ETT. All patients intubated with the study ETT in each time period will be included in an intention-to-treat analysis. Outcomes will include VAP incidence, mortality and health services utilisation including antibiotic use and length of stay.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by the Health Sciences Research Ethics Board at Queen’s University. The results of this study will be actively disseminated through manuscript publication and conference presentations.

Trial registration number

NCT05761613.

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