- New
- Research Article
- 10.3390/healthcare14050621
- Feb 28, 2026
- Healthcare
- Edgar Vásquez-Carrasco + 13 more
Background: This scoping review aimed to identify and synthesize the evidence on mindfulness-based interventions targeting mental health outcomes in working adults. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in four electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and OTseeker) up to October 2025. The review followed PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine (OCEBM) classification. The protocol was prospectively registered on the Open Science Framework (OSF). Results: A total of 1803 records were identified, of which nine randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria. The included studies examined Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Mindfulness-Based Self-Care, Mindfulness-Oriented Therapy, and digital mindfulness interventions. Overall, mindfulness interventions demonstrated beneficial effects across several mental health domains. Conclusions: Mindfulness-based interventions show promising benefits for improving mental health among working adults. Their structured, brief, and adaptable formats support their feasibility for integration into occupational health programs and workplace mental health promotion.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.3390/healthcare14050619
- Feb 28, 2026
- Healthcare
- Sung Min Yun + 1 more
Background/Objectives: Medication errors (MEs) in intensive care units (ICUs) remain a persistent threat to patient safety. A significant surveillance gap exists where traditional voluntary reporting detects as few as 0.02 MEs per patient-day, leaving approximately 98% of errors invisible to standard audits. This review critically examines how artificial intelligence (AI) and implementation science can bridge this gap through a proposed five-layer Intelligent Safety Stack. Methods: We conducted a critical narrative review of the peer-reviewed literature published between 2000 and 2025, synthesising evidence across medication safety, predictive analytics, generative AI, engineering controls, and sociotechnical frameworks. Results: Reported ME incidence varies widely (1.32% to 31.7%) due to the profound methodological heterogeneity. To achieve sustainable safety, we propose a five-layer framework: (1) Standardised Ontology (e.g., NCC MERP) to establish ground-truth data; (2) Intelligent Surveillance to identify and monitor high-risk patients; (3) Signal Optimisation to filter noise and reduce alert fatigue; (4) Generative Stewardship to automate reconciliation at transitions of care; and (5) Engineering Controls (smart pump interoperability and NRFit™), which have been shown to reduce administration errors by up to 54.8%. Conclusions: Isolated error counting is insufficient. Sustainable medication safety in the ICU involves a sociotechnical fusion of the Intelligent Safety Stack with success measured by rescue rates rather than error prevalence alone.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.3390/healthcare14050615
- Feb 28, 2026
- Healthcare
- Enes Bardakci + 2 more
Background and aim: Accurate perioperative risk stratification is essential for patient safety in pediatric dental treatment under general anesthesia. We aim to evaluate the association between ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) Physical Status Classification and postoperative intensive care requirement in pediatric patients undergoing dental treatment under general anesthesia. Methods: In this retrospective study, the clinical records of 1003 children who underwent dental treatment under general anesthesia between June 2022 and June 2025 were evaluated. The patients’ age, gender, ASA classification, concomitant systemic diseases, and postoperative intensive care requirements were analyzed. The chi-square test and logistic regression analysis were used for statistical evaluation, and results are expressed as odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: The mean age of the patients was 5.78 ± 2.87 years, and 58.3% were male. All patients requiring postoperative intensive care were in the ASA II (34.7%) and ASA III (65.3%) groups, while no intensive care need was observed in the ASA I group (p < 0.001). The need for intensive care significantly increased, particularly in the presence of cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism, congenital heart disease, and intellectual disability (p < 0.001). In addition, the mean age of children requiring intensive care was significantly higher (p < 0.001). In multivariable logistic regression analysis, ASA classification was significantly associated with postoperative intensive care requirement (OR = 180.73, 95% CI: 9.40–1922.49, p < 0.001), whereas age and gender were not independently associated. Furthermore, the interaction term between ASA and age (ASA × Age) was not statistically significant (p = 0.59). Conclusions: ASA classification was significantly associated with postoperative intensive care unit admission in pediatric patients undergoing dental treatment under general anesthesia and may contribute to perioperative risk assessment. The findings emphasize the need for early identification of high-risk children and support the integration of ASA classification into multidisciplinary preoperative planning to enhance patient safety and optimize postoperative resource utilization.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.3390/healthcare14050620
- Feb 28, 2026
- Healthcare
- Theodora Balafouti + 11 more
Background/Objectives: Social vulnerability is linked to unhealthy eating habits, low physical activity, and, overall, increased health risks and low well-being. This study examined self-perceived barriers and facilitators to engaging in obesity prevention policies for children at risk of poverty and social exclusion in Greece from the perspective of parents, caregivers, and community representatives. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted from November to December 2023 in three geographically diverse Greek regions, namely Attica, Thessaly, and Crete. A qualitative study was conducted between November and December 2023 in three geographically diverse regions of Greece. In total, seventy-two individuals participated in the study through individual interviews and focus groups. Forty-five parents of children with disabilities took part in individual interviews, equally represented in all three regions (fifteen participants per region). Among focus group participants: Twenty-one caregivers from child protection units participated in six focus groups (two per region), with focus group sizes ranging from three to five participants. In addition, six Roma community representatives participated in three focus groups (one per region), with focus group sizes ranging from one to four participants. Inductive and deductive thematic analysis were performed using NVivo 14 software to identify key themes. Results: Most factors that increased engagement were perceived by participants as both barriers and facilitators. These factors were classified at the individual, sociocultural, or structural level, and similar themes emerged across groups. Common barriers to poor engagement included low health literacy, financial difficulties and underfunding, social exclusion, a lack of targeted nutrition interventions, concerns related to training opportunities and support, and the adequacy and safety of built environments. Common facilitators of enhanced engagement included increased awareness and motivation to support vulnerable children, the availability of community- and school-based initiatives, and free school meal provision. Conclusions: Engagement in obesity prevention policies targeting vulnerable children is influenced by multiple interrelated factors. Understanding these barriers and facilitators from the participants’ perspectives can guide policymakers and practitioners in designing more effective obesity-related interventions for socially vulnerable groups of children.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.3390/healthcare14050611
- Feb 28, 2026
- Healthcare
- Nandini Adusumilli + 4 more
Background/Objectives: Sleep plays a crucial role in children’s cognitive, emotional, and physical development. Although sleep practices and perceptions are shaped significantly by cultural and familial contexts, most sleep recommendations are developed by Western countries. This qualitative study explores primary school children’s perceptions of sleep, examining how cultural contexts, family environments, and technology influence sleep practices. Methods: Two cross studies were conducted: Study 1, in India, involved 15 children aged 8–12 years, and Study 2, in the UK, involved 12 children aged 8–10 years. Semi-structured group interviews and thematic analysis were used. Results: Both studies revealed common themes, including perceived sleep benefits, consequences of poor sleep, factors affecting sleep quality, and the role of technology. Study 1 showed that Indian children identified clear benefits of sleep, such as physical and emotional well-being, while highlighting significant barriers, including late bedtime routines, stress related to academic performance, and extensive use of social media and digital media devices. Cultural and religious practices were commonly mentioned as sleep aids. Study 2’s results from the UK revealed similar recognition of sleep benefits, notably recovery and growth. UK children emphasised environmental barriers such as noise pollution, sibling disturbances, and uncomfortable sleeping conditions. Technology usage was acknowledged as both a barrier and an occasional aid, with stricter parental controls on bedtime and device usage. Conclusions: This research highlights the importance of culturally sensitive sleep education programmes and recommendations to enhance children’s sleep health globally.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.3390/healthcare14050617
- Feb 28, 2026
- Healthcare
- Kathleen H Miao + 5 more
Emphysematous cholecystitis is a rare but severe variant of acute cholecystitis characterized by gas-forming organisms within the gallbladder wall or lumen. It progresses rapidly and carries substantial mortality, making early and accurate recognition essential. Although its pathogenesis involves gallbladder wall ischemia with superimposed infection by gas-producing bacteria—most commonly Clostridium species—the clinical presentation is often nonspecific, particularly in patients with diabetes mellitus or immunosuppression. Imaging therefore serves as the cornerstone of diagnosis. Abdominal radiographs may demonstrate intraluminal or intramural gas, while ultrasound can reveal echogenic foci with reverberation artifacts, though overlying bowel gas and diagnostic mimics may limit sensitivity. Computed tomography remains the most accurate modality, precisely delineating gas within the gallbladder wall, lumen, or adjacent tissues and facilitating urgent surgical or percutaneous intervention. Magnetic resonance imaging offers complementary soft tissue characterization when computed tomography is contraindicated. This review synthesizes traditional imaging findings and emerging diagnostic innovations by critically comparing modality-specific strengths, limitations, and pitfalls. Dual-energy and photon-counting computed tomography enhance tissue contrast and gas conspicuity, while artificial intelligence-assisted image analysis enables earlier detection and expedited triage in emergency settings. By integrating evolving technologies with established radiologic principles, this article provides a forward-looking framework for improving diagnostic precision and ultimately enhancing outcomes for patients with emphysematous cholecystitis.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.3390/healthcare14050612
- Feb 28, 2026
- Healthcare
- José A Jiménez-Chaires + 4 more
Background: A sedentary behavior and being overweight represent major public health issues associated with both physical and psychological risks. Based on self-determination theory (SDT), the psychoeducational intervention PsicoFIT—a component of the TIGREFIT program—aims to foster motivation toward physical activity, to promote healthy habits, and to reduce psychological ill-being in sedentary adults who are overweight and are fans of a football club. Methods: This protocol corresponds to a longitudinal comparative pragmatic clinical trial, designed in accordance with the recommendations of the SPIRIT Statement. The intervention, preceded by a training program for the coaches involved, will comprise 12 weekly modules delivered in two modalities: (1) face-to-face, through group sessions, and (2) semi face-to-face, through short video capsules hosted on a digital platform. Changes associated with the intervention will be evaluated using hierarchical multiple regression and pre-post comparisons, assessing baseline and post-intervention data within and between the intervention modalities. Primary outcomes will include changes in healthy lifestyle and burnout as indicators of well-being and ill-being, respectively. Secondary outcomes will assess basic psychological needs satisfaction and autonomous motivation as potential mediators of these effects, as well as the coach’s controlling interpersonal style as a possible contextual predictor. The modality of participation will be analyzed as a potential moderator of the observed changes. Finally, the acceptability and perceived contribution of the intervention will be explored through a focus group. Discussion: PsicoFIT will provide a methodological framework for designing interventions within multicomponent programs aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and psychological well-being in sedentary adults who are overweight, considering the social context of football fandom and allowing for an exploration of the impact of the face-to-face and semi-face-to-face modalities. Future empirical application of the protocol will help verify its effectiveness, guide adaptations across contexts, and contribute to the development of evidence-based interventions. Conclusions: The implementation of PsicoFit will allow for the evaluation of its effectiveness, psychological mechanisms, and delivery modalities, thus guiding future evidence-based interventions in sport.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.3390/healthcare14050622
- Feb 28, 2026
- Healthcare
- Morakane Audrey Mphokela + 2 more
Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) continues to place immense strain on health systems globally, with nurses at the centre of care delivery physically, emotionally, and relationally. In dialysis units, nurses form long-term therapeutic relationships with patients who depend on life-sustaining treatment several times a week. Objective: This study explored the lived experiences of professional nurses caring for patients with CKD in a dialysis unit, using Watson’s Theory of Human Caring as a guiding framework. Methods: A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive design was employed. Data were collected through in-depth face-to-face interviews with twelve professional nurses and analyzed using thematic analysis. Trustworthiness was ensured through credibility, dependability, confirmability, transferability, and authenticity. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained. Results: Three themes emerged: (1) emotional and professional experiences, (2) systemic resource constraints, and (3) recommendations for practice improvement. These findings highlight the tension between caring ideals and systemic limitations. Conclusions: The study concludes that dialysis nursing is profoundly meaningful yet emotionally demanding. Strengthened emotional support, improved leadership visibility, consistent resource allocation, and enhanced nephrology nursing education are critical to sustaining compassionate care. The findings offer important insights for policy, workforce development, and quality improvement efforts in CKD care.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.3390/healthcare14050594
- Feb 27, 2026
- Healthcare
- Valentina Tommasi + 11 more
Background/Objectives: The International Classification for Nursing Practice (ICNP®) is a standardized nursing language that enables the description of nursing care through diagnoses, interventions, and outcomes. An ICNP® Subset is a sub-group of ICNP® terms appropriate for settings of practice, facilitating the direct use of the ICNP® in nursing documentation. As far as we know, there are no Subsets concerning neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) settings. The aim of this study is to develop a Subset of ICNP® for NICU and neonatology settings, presenting terms that are validated and harmonized with SNOMED CT nomenclature. Methods: This is a two-phase study. In the first phase, ICNP® terms were validated through a qualitative study using a four-round Delphi method and a focus group involving experts in NICU and neonatology settings and education. The second phase focused on harmonizing the proposed ICNP® Subset with SNOMED CT. Results: A total of 479 ICNP® terms belonging to the Diagnosis/Outcome (DC) and Intervention (IC) axes were validated by the experts. Of these, 99.65% were found to be compatible with SNOMED CT. In addition, 97 new terms (30 Diagnoses/Outcomes and 67 Interventions) were validated and are currently awaiting approval by the International Council of Nurses. Of the newly proposed terms, 93.81% were compatible with SNOMED CT. Conclusions: The proposed Subset consists of 576 ICNP® terms, including 177 Diagnoses/Outcomes and 399 Interventions. Its implementation may support the adoption of electronic health records in neonatal and NICU settings and contribute to improving the quality and standardization of nursing care.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.3390/healthcare14050592
- Feb 27, 2026
- Healthcare
- Mohanad Almaimani + 9 more
Background: Physical exercise is a potential non-pharmacological therapy for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Perception of benefits and barriers of exercise among hemodialysis (HD) patients is linked with their exercise behavior. This study aimed to investigate perceptions of exercise benefits and barriers among patients on HD in Saudi Arabia and their associated predictors. Methods: This is a cross-sectional survey study that was conducted in two dialysis centers in Saudi Arabia between May and September 2025. In this research, the Dialysis Patient-perceived Exercise Benefits and Barriers Scale (DPEBBS) was used to examine patients’ perceived benefits and barriers to exercise. Patients’ physical activity status was evaluated using the General Practice Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPPAQ). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to define factors influencing positive perception towards physical activities and perceived barriers. Results: This study included 104 patients with ESRD. Most patients expressed positive perceptions regarding the benefits of exercise. The majority agreed or strongly agreed that exercise improves mood (87.5%), prevents muscular atrophy (81.8%), postpones decline in body function (81.7%), and enhances quality of life (83.7%). Regarding barriers to exercise, several concerns were frequently reported by patients. The most prominent barrier was worry about affecting the arteriovenous fistula. Tiredness (70.2%) and muscle fatigue (63.5%) were also commonly cited obstacles. Age was significantly associated with lower odds of perceiving exercise as beneficial (aOR = 0.94; 95%CI:0.91–0.98; p = 0.008). This indicates that older patients were slightly less likely to report a positive perception towards exercise. Having a bachelor’s degree is associated with higher odds of reporting exercise barriers compared with no education (aOR = 16.22, 95%CI:1.29–204.42; p = 0.03). The majority of the patients (78.8%) are classified as physically inactive. Conclusions: This study revealed that most patients on HD in Saudi Arabia have positive perceptions regarding the benefits of exercise. Nevertheless, several barriers were also reported by these patients, with tiredness, worry about affecting the arteriovenous fistula, body pain, and muscle fatigue being the most reported barriers. Further studies are necessary to investigate the relationship between a positive perception of exercise benefits and exercise engagement.