Bridge Knowledge Gaps Research Articles

ASSESSMENT OF NURSES' KNOWLEDGE REGARDING SAFE PATIENT LIFTING AND HANDLING IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITALS

Safe patient handling is a critical aspect of nursing care, aimed at preventing musculoskeletal injuries among healthcare providers and ensuring patient safety. In Pakistan, nurses face challenges such as limited access to handling equipment and inconsistent training, increasing their risk of injury and affecting patient care quality. Objective: This study assesses nurses' knowledge of safe patient lifting and handling and explores demographic and professional factors influencing this knowledge. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 nurses at the Department of Nursing, Superior University, Lahore, using a self-structured questionnaire. The questionnaire comprised demographic and professional information, alongside a 15-item knowledge assessment on safe patient handling. Correct responses were scored, and the mean score was calculated to categorize knowledge as "good" or "poor." Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 22.0, employing descriptive statistics and chi-square tests for associations, with p≤0.05 considered significant. Results: Of the 200 nurses surveyed, 56.0% demonstrated good knowledge of safe patient handling, while 44.0% exhibited poor knowledge. Significant associations were found between knowledge levels and gender, qualifications, work position, and department. Females and those with advanced qualifications had higher knowledge levels, while age and work experience showed no significant influence. Nurses who had received training reported higher knowledge, though the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.16). Conclusion: The findings indicate that a significant proportion of nurses lack adequate knowledge of safe patient handling, highlighting the need for enhanced training and resources. Targeted interventions considering demographic and professional variations can bridge knowledge gaps and promote safer handling practices, reducing occupational risks and improving patient care quality. Further studies are recommended to explore institutional policies and cultural factors that may impact the adoption of safe patient-handling practices in Pakistan.

Is the information provided by large language models valid in educating patients about adolescent idiopathic scoliosis? An evaluation of content, clarity, and empathy : The perspective of the European Spine Study Group.

Large language models (LLM) have the potential to bridge knowledge gaps in patient education and enrich patient-surgeon interactions. This study evaluated three chatbots for delivering empathetic and precise adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) related information and management advice. Specifically, we assessed the accuracy, clarity, and relevance of the information provided, aiming to determine the effectiveness of LLMs in addressing common patient queries and enhancing their understanding of AIS. We sourced 20 webpages for the top frequently asked questions (FAQs) about AIS and formulated 10 critical questions based on them. Three advanced LLMs-ChatGPT 3.5, ChatGPT 4.0, and Google Bard-were selected to answer these questions, with responses limited to 200 words. The LLMs' responses were evaluated by a blinded group of experienced deformity surgeons(members of the European Spine Study Group) from seven Europeanspine centers. A pre-established 4-level rating system from excellent to unsatisfactory was used with a further rating for clarity, comprehensiveness, and empathy on the 5-point Likert scale. If not rated 'excellent', the raters were asked to report the reasons for their decision for each question. Lastly, raters were asked for their opinion towards AI in healthcare in general in six questions. The responses among all LLMs were 'excellent' in 26% of responses, with ChatGPT-4.0 leading (39%), followed by Bard (17%). ChatGPT-4.0 was rated superior to Bard and ChatGPT 3.5 (p = 0.003). Discrepancies among raters were significant (p < 0.0001), questioning inter-rater reliability. No substantial differences were noted in answer distribution by question (p = 0.43). The answers on diagnosis (Q2) and causes (Q4) of AIS were top-rated. The most dissatisfaction was seen in the answers regarding definitions (Q1) and long-term results (Q7). Exhaustiveness, clarity, empathy, and length of the answers were positively rated (> 3.0 on 5.0) and did not demonstrate any differences among LLMs. However, GPT-3.5 struggled with language suitability and empathy, while Bard's responses were overly detailed and less empathetic. Overall, raters found that 9% of answers were off-topic and 22% contained clear mistakes. Our study offers crucial insights into the strengths and weaknesses of current LLMs in AIS patient and parent education, highlighting the promise of advancements like ChatGPT-4.oand Gemini alongside the need for continuous improvement in empathy, contextual understanding, and language appropriateness.

Perceptions, Uses, and Information Sources of Medical Cannabis Among Patients with Cancer

Purpose: While medical cannabis (MC) has been shown to relieve cancer- and treatment-related symptoms, there is increasing misinformation regarding its anti-tumor efficacy. We aimed to identify opportunities for oncologists to communicate evidence-based guidance to patients regarding its use. Methods: Patients with cancer seen in radiation oncology clinic between June 2022 and July 2023 were surveyed with a questionnaire regarding their perceptions and information sources of MC. Associations between survey responses and demographic and disease variables were evaluated. Qualitative thematic analysis was performed on narrative responses in search of common themes. Results: Eighty-four patients (84% completion rate) were included in the analysis. Most (83.3%) strongly agreed or agreed that MC can provide symptom relief, while a subset of patients (15.5%) strongly agreed or agreed that MC can cure cancer. This latter subcohort was significantly more likely to identify as Hispanic/Latino (38.5% versus 9.9%, p= 0.009) and less likely to be up to date on COVID vaccinations (30.8% versus 8.5%, p= 0.044). Identifying as Hispanic/Latino remained significantly associated with strongly agreeing or agreeing that MC can cure cancer on bivariate analysis (odds ratio 6.528, 95% CI 1.477-28.715, p=0.012). Education level, other sociodemographic characteristics, and sources for information about MC were not significantly different between these patients. Thematic analysis revealed that patients hoped to learn more about MC from their oncologists but perceived them to be unknowledgeable on the subject. Conclusions: While most patients consider MC to be a valuable addition to conventional therapies for managing refractory symptoms, a subset believed it had potential as an anti-cancer therapy. Many patients rely on unregulated sources, highlighting the need for providers to address misinformation, bridge knowledge gaps, and clarify its use.

Early use of long-acting injectable antipsychotics in bipolar disorder type I: An expert consensus.

Long-acting injectable antipsychotics (LAIs) are not routinely offered to patients living with bipolar disorder type I (BP-I), despite widespread evidence that supports their benefits over oral antipsychotics, particularly in early disease. A round-table meeting of psychiatrists convened to discuss barriers and opportunities and provide consensus recommendations around the early use of LAIs for BP-I. LAIs are rarely prescribed to treat BP-I unless a patient has severe symptoms, sub-optimal adherence to oral antipsychotics, or has experienced multiple relapses. Beyond country-specific accessibility issues (e.g., healthcare infrastructure and availability/approval status), primary barriers to the effective use of LAIs were identified as attitudinal and knowledge/experience-based. Direct discussions between healthcare providers and patients about treatment preferences may not occur due to a preconceived notion that patients prefer oral antipsychotics. Moreover, as LAIs have historically been limited to the treatment of schizophrenia and the most severe cases of BP-I, healthcare providers might be unaware of the benefits LAIs provide in the overall management of BP-I. Improved treatment adherence associated with LAIs compared to oral antipsychotics may support improved outcomes for patients (e.g., reduced relapse and hospitalization). Involvement of all stakeholders (healthcare providers, patients, and their supporters) participating in the patient journey is critical in early and shared decision-making processes. Clinical and database studies could potentially bridge knowledge gaps to facilitate acceptance of LAIs. This review discusses the benefits of LAIs in the management of BP-I and identifies barriers to use, while providing expert consensus recommendations for potential solutions to support informed treatment decision-making.

Practices and Challenges on the Relationship to Support the Goals of Impact Ranked Universities in the Philippines

This study investigated the collaborative efforts of Philippine Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs) with NGOs, government agencies, and other stakeholders in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By leveraging their academic capabilities, PHEIs ranked by the Times Higher Education Impact Ranking played a crucial role in addressing global challenges through a multi-sectoral approach. This study emphasized the importance of collaborating with regional NGOs and government agencies for policy-making and multi-sectoral dialogue in promoting participatory decision-making. It also highlighted the significance of international collaborations in standardizing data gathering and sharing best practices, thus enhancing the quality and impact of research related to public policy and sustainable development. PHEIs' engagement with NGOs was pivotal in mobilizing resources for community-targeted projects, including disaster risk reduction, health and well-being, educational outreach, and environmental conservation. These initiatives contributed to immediate community needs and built long-term resilience and sustainability. Findings revealed that PHEIs were not only centers of learning but also key players in the global sustainable development agenda. Their ability to bridge knowledge gaps, coupled with the operational reach of NGOs and the policy influence of government bodies, formed a powerful force for societal transformation. As the world progressed towards the 2030 Agenda, it was essential for PHEIs to strengthen partnerships, expand research scope, and enhance community engagement practices. This would not only advance the SDGs but also shape an inclusive and resilient sustainable future. The study called for continued innovation in partnership models and inclusive strategies that engaged all societal sectors, ensuring substantial and measurable progress towards the SDGs. The ongoing commitment of PHEIs would be crucial in achieving a sustainable world for future generations.

Redefining space pharmacology: bridging knowledge gaps in drug efficacy and safety for deep space missions

The space environment is incredibly hostile, and humans are vulnerable in such conditions. Astronauts encounter various stress factors during a space journey, including radiation, microgravity, forceful acceleration during launch, altered magnetic fields, and confinement. These stressors significantly impact the human body homeostasis, leading to physio-pathological adaptations, loss of bone density, muscle atrophy, cardiovascular deconditioning, alterations in liver function, vestibular adaptations, and immune system dysregulation. These alterations can potentially influence drug pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, affecting the efficacy and safety of medications administered to astronauts. Due to the limited number of studies on pharmaceuticals conducted in microgravity conditions, it’s challenging to assess the effectiveness and stability of these medications during spaceflight. The objective of the present work is to compare the state-of-the-art knowledge on PK/PD changes and factors likely to affect them during spaceflight, with the subjective perception of the problem by a collection of separate interviews conducted with seven experts in the field. The interviewees were chosen as “experts,” i.e., representatives in a specific discipline, who possess knowledge and experience in space pharmacology, physiology, or biology. Thus, our panel included astronauts, space surgeons, and scientists aiming to bridge the lack of experimental data in the literature. Each interview explores assorted aspects of space physiology and pharmacology, including drug use and storage onboard the ISS; notable consideration has arisen regarding the current research gaps and future space expeditions. All the interviews were held remotely using online conferencing software. None of the interviewees could provide a comprehensive overview regarding potential changes in drugs PK/PD in microgravity conditions. Further, any medication brought on board (whether as part of an astronaut’s medical kit or stored in the ISS pharmacy) is destroyed, thereby suppressing the possibility of analyzing any degradation products resulting from long-term exposure to microgravity and radiation. According to these results, the use of drugs without understanding how they are genuinely absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted in microgravity conditions is concerning, posing risks for drug effectiveness. Conducting genotyping and phenotyping on astronauts would be beneficial for developing personalized pharmacological countermeasures for each astronaut and anticipating expected drug metabolism changes during space missions.

Sexuality in Older Adults: Comprehensive Strategies for Clinicians and Patient-Centered Care.

Healthcare providers play a crucial role in promoting sexual health among older adults, an important yet often neglected aspect of aging well. Although sexuality evolves beyond the reproductive years, it remains a meaningful part of life for many. Despite the natural decline in sexual activity with age, numerous older adults continue to value and engage in fulfilling sexual relationships. Unfortunately, targeted interventions to support later-life sexuality are lacking, creating gaps in care. Sexuality in older adults is influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors. Clinicians should include comprehensive sexual health assessments, including STI screenings, as part of routine care. Providing age-appropriate sexual education and resources helps promote lifelong sexual wellness. Open communication between healthcare providers and patients is vital for addressing sexual concerns, often left unspoken due to stigma or discomfort. Additionally, adopting lifestyle medicine principles-such as balanced nutrition, regular exercise, stress management, and social connection-can enhance sexual health and overall well-being. Specialized training for healthcare professionals on the unique aspects of older adult sexuality is essential to bridge knowledge gaps. A holistic, evidence-based approach will empower providers to better support the evolving sexual health needs of older adults, improving their quality of life.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Exclusive Breastfeeding among Lactating Mothers in Rural Bangladesh

Background: Exclusive breastfeeding stands at the forefront of maternal and child health, serving as a fundamental pillar for ensuring the optimal growth and development of infants. It not only acts as a crucial source of nutrition but also plays a pivotal role in fortifying the physical and cognitive well-being of newborns, while simultaneously fostering a profound bond between mothers and their infants.Objective: This research seeks to gauge the level of awareness among lactating mothers regarding the significance and benefits of exclusive breastfeeding. It aims to comprehend their attitudes towards exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) and scrutinize their actual practices in implementing this vital aspect of infant care.Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Community Medicine, ASWMC, Jashore, in 2018. Data collection took place in the Outpatient Department (OPD) of 'Ad-din Sakina Medical College Hospital' and 'Mother &amp; Child Welfare Centre, Jashore.Results: The study demonstrates a high awareness and adherence to exclusive breastfeeding, with 94.4% aware, 90.9% knowledgeable about recommended duration, 49.9% recognizing advantages, 14.6% aware of disadvantages, and a substantial majority (92.5%) practicing exclusive breastfeeding, though 7.5% do not.Conclusion: Bridging knowledge gaps, cultivating positive attitudes, and promoting consistent breastfeeding practices emerge as crucial components of a comprehensive strategy to boost exclusive breastfeeding rates. The collaboration between healthcare providers, policymakers, and the community is indispensable for the success of such initiatives, ultimately contributing to the overall health and well-being of both infants and lactating mothers. KYAMC Journal Volume: 15, No: 01, April 2024: 46-49.

Genome-Wide Characterization and Expression Profiling of Phytosulfokine Receptor Genes (PSKRs) in Triticum aestivum with Docking Simulations of Their Interactions with Phytosulfokine (PSK): A Bioinformatics Study.

Background/Objectives: The phytosulfokine receptor (PSKR) gene family plays a crucial role in regulating plant growth, development, and stress response. Here, the PSKR gene family was characterized in Triticum aestivum L. The study aimed to bridge knowledge gaps and clarify the functional roles of TaPSKRs to create a solid foundation for examining the structure, functions, and regulatory aspects. Methods: The investigation involved genome-wide identification of PSKRs through collection and chromosomal assignment, followed by phylogenetic analysis and gene expression profiling. Additionally, interactions with their interactors were stimulated and analyzed to elucidate their function. Results: The wide-genome inspection of all TaPSKRs led to 25 genes with various homeologs, resulting in 57 TaPSKR members distributed among the A, B, and D subgenomes. Investigating the expression of 61 TaPSKR cDNAs in RNA-seq datasets generated from different growth stages at 14, 21, and 60 days old and diverse tissues such as leaves, shoots, and roots provided further insight into their functional purposes. The expression profile of the TaPSKRs resulted in three key clusters. Gene cluster 1 (GC 1) is partially associated with root growth, suggesting that specific TaPSKRs control root development. The GC 2 cluster targeted genes that show high levels of expression in all tested leaf growth stages and the early developmental stage of the shoots and roots. Furthermore, the GC 3 cluster was composed of genes that are constantly expressed, highlighting their crucial role in regulating various processes during the entire life cycle of wheat. Molecular docking simulations showed that phytosulfokine type α (PSK-α) interacted with all TaPSKRs and had a strong binding affinity with certain TaPSKR proteins, encompassing TaPSKR1A, TaPSKR3B, and TaPSKR13A, that support their involvement in PSK signaling pathways. The crucial arbitration of the affinity may depend on interactions between wheat PSK-α and PSKRs, especially in the LRR domain region. Conclusions: These discoveries deepened our knowledge of the role of the TaPSKR gene family in wheat growth and development, opening up possibilities for further studies to enhance wheat durability and yield via focused innovation approaches.

Assessment of Knowledge and Practices Related to Non-Surgical Management of Osteoarthritis Among Patients in the Rural Community of Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan.

Introduction: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that represents a major public health challenge, especially in rural communities where access to advanced healthcare is limited. This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to the non-surgical management of osteoarthritis among patients in the rural district of Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, India. Method: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 234 adult OA patients aged 45 and above, residing in selected rural areas of Sri Ganganagar. Participants were recruited using convenience sampling from local health centers and community clinics. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and correlation analyses to explore associations between demographic variables and KAP levels. Results: The study revealed that 29.9% of participants had adequate knowledge about OA, while 18.8% had inadequate knowledge. Regarding practices, 21.4% of participants demonstrated good practices in managing their OA symptoms, whereas 20.9% exhibited poor practices. Significant associations were found between age and education level with both knowledge and practice levels (p &lt; 0.05). A moderate positive correlation was observed between age and knowledge score (r = 0.45, p = 0.002), and a strong positive correlation was found between knowledge and practice scores (ρ = 0.60, p &lt; 0.001). Conclusion: The findings underscore the need for targeted health education programs in rural communities like Sri Ganganagar to bridge knowledge gaps and improve adherence to non-surgical OA management practices. Enhancing patient education and integrating healthcare providers in the patient education process could significantly improve OA management and patient outcomes in rural settings.

Insights and perceptions: Investigating pregnant women's attitudes, understanding, and factors influencing knowledge regarding medication usage during pregnancy-A cross-sectional study.

Medication use during pregnancy is a critical concern due to potential risks to both the mother and fetus. To the extent of our knowledge, there has been no prior research to assess medication use and identify the specific factors of pregnant women within the Yemeni community. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, beliefs, and practices of Yemeni pregnant women regarding medication use and assess the factors associated with the knowledge during pregnancy. A cross-sectional multi-center study was conducted through face-to-face interviews using a validated structured questionnaire. The study was conducted on pregnant women receiving antenatal care at tertiary care hospitals in four governorates in Yemen. Univariable and multivariate logistic regressions were employed to examine the relationship between participant variables and their knowledge. A P-value of less than .05 was considered statistically significant. Out of the 1003 pregnant women, 35.4% (n = 355) were aged 21-25 years, 33.9% (n = 340) had primary education, 73.6% (n = 738) lived in urban areas, 12.2% (n = 122) were smokers, 38.3% (n = 384) reported chewing khat, and the majority (90.2%, n = 905) were unemployed. Also, 65.5% (n = 657) of the participants reported taking folic acid in their current pregnancy. A total of 2,623 medications were utilized during pregnancy, with 17.8% during the first trimester (n = 468). Around 39.3% (n = 1,037) of medications used fell under the blood and blood-forming organs category. Education level (AOR: 4.00, P < .001), insurance status (AOR: 1.71, P = .026), information about medication risks to the fetus (AOR: 1.96, P = .023), the use of folic acid either in a previous pregnancy (AOR: 1.65, P < .008) or in the current pregnancy (AOR: 4.26, P < .001), and checking the medication leaflet (AOR: 5.67, P < .001) were predictors of higher knowledge. The findings underscore the pressing need for educational interventions aimed at pregnant women. By bridging knowledge gaps and promoting informed decision-making, such initiatives can contribute to a safer and healthier pregnancy journey, reducing the inclination towards self-medication.

S578 Bridging Knowledge and Competence Gaps Regarding Recent Therapeutic advances in Eosinophilic Esophagitis: Effectiveness of Continuing Medical Education

S578 Bridging Knowledge and Competence Gaps Regarding Recent Therapeutic advances in Eosinophilic Esophagitis: Effectiveness of Continuing Medical Education

Evaluation of Awareness, Knowledge, and Attitude Toward Basic Life Support Among the General Population in Saudi Arabia: A Nationwide Survey.

Background Basic life support (BLS) is the key component in changing the outcome from death to survival when cardiac arrest occurs. It involves providing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and utilizing an automated external defibrillator (AED) to help restore the normal cardiac rhythm. By equipping more individuals with BLS training, it will enhance community preparedness and public health. Aim This study aimed to evaluate the general population's awareness, knowledge, and attitude toward BLS in Saudi Arabia. Subject and methods This cross-sectional study was conducted among the Saudi general population covering all five main regions in Saudi Arabia (Central, Eastern, Western, Southern, and Northern). A self-administered questionnaire was sent through volunteer data collectors in every area in which they live to the population using a Google (Google, Inc., Mountain View, CA) survey. The questionnaire includes socio-demographic characteristics (i.e., age, gender, region of residence, etc.) to assess the awareness, knowledge, and attitude toward BLS using a 20-item questionnaire based on the American Heart Association (AHA). Results Of the 992 participants, 615 (62%) were females, and 325 were aged between 26 and 35 years (32.8%). Four hundred eleven participants (41.4%) attended training related to BLS. The most common source of training information was a resuscitation society course (51.8%), followed by the university curriculum (24.6%) and school (10.7%). The overall mean knowledge score was 9.64 (SD 2.92) out of 20 points. Among them, 487 (49.1%) had moderate knowledge levels, 466 (47%) were poor, and only 39 (3.9%) had good knowledge. Factors associated with increased knowledge include younger age, living outside Central Region, better education, being a healthcare worker, knowing how to give a cardiac massage, previous participation in BLS training, and witnessed of sudden death. The biggest barrier that would prevent participants from providing a cardiac massage is fear of making a mistake (63.1%). Conclusion The general population's knowledge of BLS was found to be inadequate. However, younger participants who had a better education and worked in a healthcare institution tended to be more knowledgeable about BLS than the rest of the groups. The gaps in the knowledge are evidently seen in this study. Hence, appropriate measures are needed to bridge knowledge gaps. Healthcare authorities should devise a program to deliver necessary information about the basic facts of BLS throughout the community.

Evaluation of the Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Clinical Practice of Radiology in Saudi Arabia.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming integral to the health sector, particularly radiology, because it enhances diagnostic accuracy and optimizes patient care. This study aims to assess the awareness and acceptance of AI among radiology professionals in Saudi Arabia, identifying the educational and training needs to bridge knowledge gaps and enhance AI-related competencies. This cross-sectional observational study surveyed radiology professionals across various hospitals in Saudi Arabia. Participants were recruited through multiple channels, including direct invitations, emails, social media, and professional societies. The survey comprised four sections: demographic details, perceptions of AI, knowledge about AI, and willingness to adopt AI in clinical practice. Out of 374 radiology professionals surveyed, 45.2% acknowledged AI's significant impact on their field. Approximately 44% showed enthusiasm for AI adoption. However, 58.6% reported limited AI knowledge and inadequate training, with 43.6% identifying skill development and the complexity of AI educational programs as major barriers to implementation. While radiology professionals in Saudi Arabia are generally positive about integrating AI into clinical practice, significant gaps in knowledge and training need to be addressed. Tailored educational programs are essential to fully leverage AI's potential in improving medical imaging practices and patient care outcomes.

Outreach of HIV/AIDS Disease on Prisoners at Women Prison of Class IIA Jakarta Timur

This program aims to enhance the knowledge and understanding of inmates regarding HIV/AIDS while also reducing stigma and discrimination within the prison environment. This program is based on data indicating a higher prevalence of HIV among prisoners compared to the general population. The primary challenges faced include a lack of information and education about HIV/AIDS and limited access to healthcare services within the prison. The program’s methodology includes planning activities with clearly defined goals and targets, forming a working team, and developing educational materials. The program’s implementation involves an initial outreach phase, followed by an educational session consisting of lectures and interactive discussions. Monitoring and evaluation are conducted by collecting data and assessing the activities to measure the program’s effectiveness using interview with prisoner and checklist. A total of 25 participants, aged between 21 and 50 years, participated in this program. The results demonstrated active participation and enthusiasm from the inmates (100%), indicating the program’s success in bridging knowledge gaps and reducing stigma. This program has fostered a healthier, safer prison environment and better-prepared inmates for social reintegration with improved health knowledge. It is hoped that this program can serve as a model for other prisons in Indonesia in the efforts to prevent and combat HIV/AIDS.

Enhancing python learning with PyTutor: Efficacy of a ChatGPT-Based intelligent tutoring system in programming education

Programming is regarded as a focal point in the current rapidly evolving educational landscape. To aid learning in this domain, we developed PyTutor, an innovative intelligent tutoring system (ITS) that is designed to assist beginners in Python programming. PyTutor utilizes the ChatGPT model to offer continuous guidance, problem-solving hints, and detailed code explanations. It features a structured hint system for each question, covering pseudocode, cloze, basic, and advanced coding solutions. In our 11-week experiment, we compared 35 students who used PyTutor with 36 students who did not. The results indicated the effectiveness of PyTutor, particularly for students with weak foundations in programming. Those with lower initial knowledge exhibited higher engagement, completion rates, and success rates in in-class and after-class programming exercises. Nevertheless, we observed a potential risk of overreliance on PyTutor among students, which may impede the development of independent problem-solving skills. Thus, we recommend the balanced usage of PyTutor. In conclusion, PyTutor is a valuable ITS in programming education that considerably improves the learning outcomes of beginners. Its tailored approach renders it a promising tool for bridging knowledge gaps and enhancing overall educational experiences in the field of programming.

Enhancing Knowledge on Energy Refurbishment of Buildings and Green Procurement through Living Labs

Buildings account for a significant portion of energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, underscoring the urgent need for energy refurbishment and green procurement strategies. This study explores the potential of Living Labs, a collaborative and user-centered approach, to bridge knowledge gaps and foster innovation in these areas. The research employed a comprehensive methodology, including stakeholder surveys and statistical analyses, to evaluate knowledge enhancement in various domains such as green policies, mentoring, funding possibilities, and green public procurement. The results demonstrated statistically significant improvements in knowledge across different fields and stakeholder groups. This study contributes to the objectives of the European Green Deal by highlighting the role of Living Labs in advancing knowledge critical to achieving energy efficiency and sustainability targets. Based on these findings, several recommendations are proposed to further leverage the effectiveness of Living Labs in promoting the energy refurbishment of buildings and green public procurement.

Palliative Care in Turkey: Insights from experts through key informant interviews

BackgroundThe rising demand for palliative-care (PC) in Turkey, driven by cancer, has prompted increased attention since the national PC policy in 2010. Despite this, the healthcare system predominantly focuses on curative care, lacking PC integration. This is due to combination of administrative obstacles, fragmented coordination, education and training scarcity. Thus urgent strategies are required to address the growing PC gap. This qualitative study explores the perspectives of PC professionals and policymakers, providing valuable insights for national policy and program development. Material and methodThis study employed an exploratory approach using key informant interviews. Interviews were conducted using semi-structured questionnaire. It sought to collect relevant contextual information in order to achieve its aim. Thematic content analysis was employed to examine and interpret the data. ResultTwenty-one participants, comprising nurses, specialists, and oncologists, were interviewed. The findings are encompassed by eight themes. 1) Integrated Care, highlights the importance of cohesive collaboration among diverse healthcare providers, social care services, and primary care systems to ensure comprehensive and effective care. 2) Meeting social care needs underscores significance of addressing a wide spectrum of patient requirements, including psychosocial support. 3) PC education emphasizes necessity of equipping healthcare professionals with the requisite skills and knowledge through comprehensive training. 4) Legalizing do-notresuscitate orders draws attention to the critical discussion surrounding end-of-life decisions. 5) Empowering communities recognizes bridging knowledge gaps among patients and caregivers. 6) Decision-Making underscores the importance of informed and collaborative decision-making processes. 7) Cultural considerations urge the adoption of culturally sensitive approaches. 8) Ongoing challenges shed light on persistent issues such as provider attitudes, and administrative hurdles. ConclusionThis study highlights essential factors for establishing an integrated PC program for cancer patients in Turkey. The existing healthcare system in Turkey offers opportunities for advanced PC. Successful implementation demands strategic actions to facilitate meaningful transformation.

O50 - Bridging Knowledge Gaps among Healthcare Providers Regarding Cardiovascular Risk Following Complications of Pregnancy

O50 - Bridging Knowledge Gaps among Healthcare Providers Regarding Cardiovascular Risk Following Complications of Pregnancy

A quality improvement project to enhance the knowledge, skills, and attitude of healthcare workers regarding the use of defibrillators.

Defibrillation is a critical intervention in managing cardiac emergencies, yet healthcare workers (HCWs) preparation for utilizing defibrillators remains inadequate, particularly in low and middle-income countries. This quality improvement project aimed to assess and enhance HCWs' knowledge, skills, and attitudes toward defibrillator use in the emergency department (ED) through a 1-h defibrillator workshop. An observational clinical audit was conducted within the ED of a tertiary care hospital. Pre- and post-workshop data were collected from the participants using structured questionnaires for demographics, knowledge assessment (20 multiple-choice questions), skills assessment (10-step checklist), and attitude evaluation (Likert-scale statements). The workshop included theoretical instruction and hands-on practice, with a post-workshop assessment conducted one week later. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics and paired t-tests, while ethical considerations ensured confidentiality and consent. The study included 38 participants, demonstrating significant gaps in defibrillator knowledge, skills, and attitudes pre-workshop. Post-workshop assessments revealed a marked improvement in knowledge scores (P<0.05), attitudes (P<0.05), and practical skills (P<0.05). Participants' confidence and preparation for managing cardiac emergencies notably increased, indicating the workshop's efficacy in addressing the identified deficiencies. The 1-h defibrillator workshop effectively enhanced HCWs' competence and readiness to utilize ED defibrillators. The observed improvements underscore the importance of targeted educational interventions in bridging knowledge gaps and fostering proactive attitudes toward emergency management. Regular training sessions should be conducted to sustain these enhancements and improve patient outcomes in the ED.