Care Protocols Research Articles

Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Contributes to Epilepsy Development after Ischemic Stroke in Mice.

Epilepsy, a neurological disorder affecting over 50 million individuals globally, is characterized by an enduring predisposition and diverse consequences, both neurobiological and social. Acquired epilepsy, constituting 30% of cases, often results from brain-damaging injuries like ischemic stroke. With one third of epilepsy cases being resistant to existing drugs and without any preventive therapeutics for epileptogenesis, identifying anti-epileptogenic targets is crucial. Stroke being a leading cause of acquired epilepsy, particularly in the elderly, prompts the need for understanding post-stroke epileptogenesis. Despite the challenges in studying stroke-evoked epilepsy in rodents due to poor long-term survival rates, in this presented study the use of an animal care protocol allowed for comprehensive investigation. We highlight the role of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in post-stroke epileptogenesis, emphasizing MMP-9 involvement in mouse models and its potential as a therapeutic target. Using a focal Middle Cerebral Artery occlusion model, this study demonstrates MMP-9 activation following ischemia, influencing susceptibility to seizures. MMP-9 knockout reduces epileptic features, while overexpression exacerbates them. The findings show that MMP-9 is a key player in post-stroke epileptogenesis, presenting opportunities for future therapies and expanding our understanding of acquired epilepsy.

Maternal near miss as a predictor of adverse perinatal outcomes: findings from a prospective cohort study in southwestern Uganda

BackgroundDespite efforts, Uganda has not met the World Health Organization target of < 12 newborn deaths per 1,000 live births. Severe maternal morbidity or ‘near miss’ is a major contributor to adverse perinatal outcomes, particularly in low-resource settings. However, the specific impact of maternal near miss on perinatal outcomes in Uganda remains insufficiently investigated. We examined the association between maternal near miss and adverse perinatal outcomes at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH) in southwestern Uganda.MethodsWe conducted a prospective cohort study among women admitted for delivery at MRRH’s maternity ward from April 2022 to August 2022. We included mothers at ≥ 28 weeks of gestation with singleton pregnancies, while intrauterine fetal death cases were excluded. For the near-miss group, we consecutively included mothers with any one of the following: antepartum hemorrhage with shock, uterine rupture, hypertensive disorders, coma, and cardiac arrest; those without these complications constituted the non-near-miss group. We followed the mothers until delivery, and their infants until seven days postpartum or death. Adverse perinatal outcomes considered were low birth weight (< 2,500 g), low Apgar score (< 7 at five minutes), intrapartum stillbirths, early neonatal death, or admission to neonatal intensive care unit. Multivariable log-binomial regression was used to determine predictors of adverse perinatal outcomes.ResultsWe enrolled 220 participants (55 maternal near misses and 165 non-near misses) with a mean age of 27 ± 5.8 years. Most of the near misses were pregnancies with hypertensive disorders (49%). Maternal near misses had a four-fold (adjusted risk ratio [aRR] = 4.02, 95% CI: 2.32–6.98) increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes compared to non-near misses. Other predictors of adverse perinatal outcomes were primigravidity (aRR = 1.53, 95%CI: 1.01–2.31), and gestational age < 34 weeks (aRR = 1.81, 95%CI: 1.19–2.77).ConclusionMaternal near misses, primigravidity, and preterm pregnancies were independent predictors of adverse perinatal outcomes in this study. We recommend implementing maternal near-miss surveillance as an integral component of comprehensive perinatal care protocols, to improve perinatal outcomes in Uganda and similar low-resource settings. Targeted interventions, including specialized care for women with maternal near misses, particularly primigravidas and those with preterm pregnancies, could mitigate the burden of adverse perinatal outcomes.

Magnitude of self-reported intimate partner violence against pregnant women in Ghana’s northern region and its association with low birth weight

BackgroundLow birth weight (LBW) rates are high in the northern region of Ghana, as is tolerance for intimate partner violence (IPV). However, the relationship between the two incidents has not been established. This study assessed the magnitude of IPV against pregnant women and its association with LBW in the northern region of Ghana.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 402 postnatal women from five public health care facilities in the Tamale Metropolitan Area, northern Ghana. Data were collected electronically during face-to-face interviews. Validated methods were used to determine IPV exposure during pregnancy and birth weight. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the independent association between prenatal exposure to IPV and LBW.ResultsOf the 402 women, 46.5% (95% CI: 41.7, 51.4) experienced IPV during their most recent pregnancy. Of these, 34.8% were psychologically abused, 24.4% were sexually abused, and 6.7% were physically abused. Prenatal IPV exposure was found to be significantly associated with birth weight. Low birth weight was twice as likely among exposed women as among unexposed women (AOR = 2.42; 95% CI: 1.12, 5.26, p < 0.05). Low birth weight risk was also higher among women with anaemia in the first trimester (AOR = 3.47; 95% CI: 1.47, 8.23, p < 0.01), but was lower among women who made at least four antenatal care visits before delivery (AOR = 0.35; 95% CI: 0.14, 0.89, p < 0.05) and male newborns (AOR = 0.23; 95% CI: 0.11, 0.49, p < 0.001).Conclusion and recommendationIPV during pregnancy is prevalent in the research population, with psychological IPV being more widespread than other kinds. Women who suffered IPV during pregnancy were more likely to have LBW than those who did not. It is essential to incorporate questions about domestic violence into antenatal care protocols. In particular, every pregnant woman should be screened for IPV at least once during each trimester, and those who have experienced violence should be closely monitored for weight gain and foetal growth in the study setting to avert the LBW associated with IPV.Plain English summaryIn the northern region of Ghana, the number of babies born with low birth weight is high, as is the number of adults who are willing to put up with intimate partner violence. However, there has not been any proof that these two incidents are connected. This study looked at how frequently intimate partner violence occurs among pregnant women and how it is linked to low birth weight in northern Ghana’s Tamale Metropolitan Area. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 402 postnatal women from five public health care facilities in the study setting. Information on exposure to intimate partner violence during pregnancy and the birth weight of babies was collected electronically during face-to-face interviews. The study found that of the 402 women, 46.5% had experienced violence by an intimate partner during their most recent pregnancy. Out of these, 34.8% were abused psychologically, 24.4% were abused sexually, and 6.7% were abused physically. Women who were abused were more likely than those who were not to have babies with low birth weight. We concluded that intimate partner violence is common during pregnancy in the study setting and that more women suffered psychological intimate partner violence than other types of violence. Intimate partner violence during pregnancy was linked to low birth weight in the study setting. It is important for antenatal care plans to include questions about intimate partner violence. In particular, every pregnant woman should be assessed for intimate partner violence at least once during each trimester for monitoring.

Assistance of emergency and urgent care services to people attempting suicide: integrative review

The study aimed to analyze the evidence available in the literature on the assistance provided by the Urgent and Emergency Service to people attempting suicide. This is an integrative review carried out between February and June 2023 in the databases Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences (LILACS), National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health (PubMed) and Scientific Electronic Library Online (Scielo), using controlled and uncontrolled descriptors. Articles were included in full and available free of charge, which were in accordance with the proposed theme and objective, published in Portuguese, English or Spanish, between 2019 and 2023. It was shown that the number of suicide attempts increases over the years. The profile of patients with suicide attempts treated in urgency and emergency units depends on each location. In some units the majority are men and in others the majority are women, both young. Women use exogenous intoxication or poisoning as a trial method and men use hanging or sharp objects. The importance of the multidisciplinary and nursing team in welcoming and caring for these patients and preventing repetitive suicide attempts was observed. Underreporting of cases is still present, as well as the lack of professional qualifications and the use of care tools or protocols. It is believed that this study can contribute to improving the qualification of professionals by training institutions in serving this clientele, as well as contributing to the adoption of tools, instruments and care protocols, both by hospital institutions and by public policies, to reflect on improving the quality of care provided to patients attempting suicide.

Ações de cuidado e diagnósticos de enfermagem ao paciente com oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea: translação do conhecimento

Abstract Objective to map diagnoses and nursing actions for the care of adult patients with extracorporeal oxygenation membrane, considering a protocol and a computerized prescription system and the inclusion of new care actions, in a process of translating knowledge to clinical practice. Methods descriptive and exploratory study, with cross-mapping between a care protocol and a computerized system of at a university hospital, from 2014 to 2018. Two meetings were held with the nursing manager and members of the extracorporeal oxygenation membrane team to validate the actions. Results most common diagnoses used in the 45 medical records of patients with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation were: Risk of infection (100%); Impaired spontaneous ventilation (93.33%); Self-care deficit syndrome (93.33%). Conclusion and implications for practice The mapping included 25 new actions, associated with 14 nursing diagnoses in the computerized system, aiming to disseminate knowledge and its application in real care for patients with extracorporeal oxygenation membrane.

Implantação dos programas de Residência de Medicina de Família e Comunidade e Multiprofissional em Saúde da Família de Campo Grande-MS, Brasil

Abstract Although there is an increase in the number of medical residency vacancies in family and community medicine, there is still poor distribution. These residency programs present cooperation with the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation through actions based on and applicable in practice, with the innovation of assistance technologies. Results show growth in the evolution of medical, nursing and dental care, with percentages of 86.94%, 81.97%, 81.80% and 66.00%, respectively. Improving the quality of records, changing the work process in dentistry and empowering nursing, with care protocols, are the main results.

Estratégias de gestores no cuidado com idosos dependentes em domicílio no Brasil

Abstract Objective To investigate the strategies Brazilian health managers employ to supply dependent elderly home care. Methods This is qualitative hermeneutics-based research with a comprehensive perspective on elderly home care. Sixteen managers working in Primary Health Care and specific elderly healthcare programs from the five Brazilian regions participated in this study. Data were collected from June to September 2019 with semi-structured interviews, and later systematized and consolidated into two themes in light of hermeneutics. Results Managers articulated health education practices, mapped vulnerabilities, implemented care flows and protocols, and organized community support and health promotion groups, besides integrative and complementary practices to consolidate and improve elderly home care. Conclusion Multiple strategies in dependent elderly home care stand out, such as individual and collective health education actions and work management processes, in which the manager plays a crucial role in developing services for the elderly.

PERIOPERATIVE CARE IN DIGESTIVE SURGERY: THE ERAS AND ACERTO PROTOCOLS - BRAZILIAN COLLEGE OF DIGESTIVE SURGERY POSITION PAPER.

The concept introduced by protocols of enhanced recovery after surgery modifies perioperative traditional care in digestive surgery. The integration of these modern recommendations components during the perioperative period is of great importance to ensure fewer postoperative complications, reduced length of hospital stay, and decreased surgical costs. To emphasize the most important points of a multimodal perioperative care protocol. Careful analysis of each recommendation of both ERAS and ACERTO protocols, justifying their inclusion in the multimodal care recommended for digestive surgery patients. Enhanced recovery programs (ERPs) such as ERAS and ACERTO protocols are a cornerstone in modern perioperative care. Nutritional therapy is fundamental in digestive surgery, and thus, both preoperative and postoperative nutrition care are key to ensuring fewer postoperative complications and reducing the length of hospital stay. The concept of prehabilitation is another key element in ERPs. The handling of crystalloid fluids in a perfect balance is vital. Fluid overload can delay the recovery of patients and increase postoperative complications. Abbreviation of preoperative fasting for two hours before anesthesia is now accepted by various guidelines of both surgical and anesthesiology societies. Combined with early postoperative refeeding, these prescriptions are not only safe but can also enhance the recovery of patients undergoing digestive procedures. This position paper from the Brazilian College of Digestive Surgery strongly emphasizes that the implementation of ERPs in digestive surgery represents a paradigm shift in perioperative care, transcending traditional practices and embracing an intelligent approach to patient well-being.

Effect of topical emollient oil application on weight of preterm newborns: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Synthesizing current evidence on interventions to improve survival outcomes in preterm infants is crucial for informing programs and policies. The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of topical emollient oil application on the weight of preterm infants. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted. To identify relevant studies, comprehensive searches were conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, Clinical trials, ProQuest Central, Epistemonikos, and gray literature sources. The inclusion criteria were based on the PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcomes) format. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2.0). Data analysis was performed using StataCrop MP V.17 software, which included evaluating heterogeneity, conducting subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and meta-regression. The findings were reported in accordance with the PRISMA checklist, and the review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023413770). Out of the initial pool of 2734 articles, a total of 18 studies involving 1454 preterm neonates were included in the final analysis. Fourteen of these studies provided data that contributed to the calculation of the pooled difference in mean weight gain in preterm neonates. The random effects meta-analysis revealed a significant pooled difference in mean weight gain of 52.15 grams (95% CI: 45.96, 58.35), albeit with high heterogeneity (I2 > 93.24%, p 0.000). Subgroup analyses were conducted, revealing that preterm infants who received massages three times daily with either sunflower oil or coconut oil exhibited greater mean differences in weight gain. Meta-regression analysis indicated that the type of emollient oil, duration of therapy, and frequency of application significantly contributed to the observed heterogeneity. A sensitivity analysis was performed, excluding two outlier studies, resulting in a pooled mean weight difference of 78.57grams (95% CI: 52.46, 104.68). Among the nine studies that reported adverse events, only two mentioned occurrences of rash and accidental slippage in the intervention groups. The available evidence suggests that the application of topical emollient oil in preterm neonates is likely to be effective in promoting weight gain, with a moderate-to-high level of certainty. Based on these findings, it is recommended that local policymakers and health planners prioritize the routine use of emollient oils in newborn care for preterm infants. By incorporating emollient oils into standard care protocols, healthcare providers can provide additional support to promote optimal growth and development in preterm infants.

EFFECTS OF ANTIVIRAL THERAPEUTIC DRUGS FOR SARS-COV-2 ON TREATMENT OUTCOMES AND CLINICAL PARAMETERS

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, has prompted extensive research into antiviral therapeutic interventions aimed at improving treatment outcomes and clinical parameters. It provides a concise overview of the research conducted in this field, focusing on the impact and significance of various antiviral drugs. By analyzing key studies and trials, it aims to elucidate the efficacy and safety profiles of drugs such as remdesivir, favipiravir, molnupiravir, and Paxlovid in managing COVID-19. The scientific and practical significance of this research lies in its contribution to understanding the role of antiviral drugs in combating SARS-CoV-2 infection. This knowledge is crucial for optimizing treatment strategies and improving patient outcomes during the ongoing pandemic. Methodologically, this research involves reviewing and synthesizing data from reputable studies published in peer-reviewed journals. Key outcomes and clinical parameters assessed include viral clearance, mortality rates, hospitalization duration, and adverse effects associated with antiviral drug administration. The main results and analysis highlight the varying impacts of different antiviral drugs on SARS-CoV-2 treatment outcomes. For instance, remdesivir shows promise in reducing recovery time and mortality, while favipiravir demonstrates enhanced viral clearance but may cause transient liver enzyme elevations. In conclusion, this research underscores the value of antiviral therapeutic drugs in mitigating SARS-CoV-2 infection. The findings contribute to the evolving understanding of COVID-19 treatment strategies and offer insights into optimizing clinical care protocols. The practical significance of these results lies in informing healthcare professionals and policymakers about effective therapeutic options for managing COVID-19 cases, ultimately improving patient care and outcomes. This abstract encapsulates the essential aspects of research on antiviral drugs for SARS-CoV-2, emphasizing its scientific, practical, and methodological significance in advancing our response to the global pandemic.

Understanding the experiences of PHC nurses in caring for older patients in the post-fifth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic: an exploratory qualitative study.

To ensure the best possible care, the perspective of PHC nurse work experience during the COVID-19 pandemic should be considered when developing nursing care protocols for older patients who receive PHC services. This exploratory qualitative study was conducted with 18 nurses working continuously in PHC between the first and fifth waves of the pandemic. Semi-structured thematic interviews were undertaken. Qualitative thematic content analysis was conducted to identify and group the themes that emerged from the discourse. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. The first topic describes the nurses' experiences of physical and mental suffering in caring for older patients in response to the pandemic. The second topic covers the experience of reorganizing PHC work. The third topic focuses on the difficulties of caring for older patients. The final topic includes issues of support needs for nurses in PHC work. The experience and understanding of PHC nurses in caring for older people during the COVID pandemic should lead to significant changes in the system of nursing care for geriatric patients and in the cooperative role within geriatric care specialist teams. Drawing on the experience of COVID-19, it is necessary to work on the weak points of PHC exposed by the pandemic in order to improve the quality of care and life for geriatric patients.

Care protocol adherence and health care contracting: managing information incompleteness

Care protocol adherence and health care contracting: managing information incompleteness

Care of women and application of the principle of informed consent to interventions during birth in the COVID-19 pandemic period.

In the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic, inadequate intrapartum care protocols were in place. Many organizations have responded promptly and recognized the importance of adherence to appropriate guidelines. The International Confederation of Midwives issued an official statement on 29 March 2020, which states that every woman has the right to information, to give consent, to refuse consent, and to have her choices and decisions respected and upheld. No research has been conducted in Lithuania to reveal the care of women who gave birth during the COVID-19 pandemic and the application of informed consent to interventions. This study is quantitative of cross-sectional design. An anonymous questionnaire survey method was used. One hundred fifty-two women who gave birth in Lithuania during the COVID-19 pandemic (March 2020 - May 2022) and had COVID-19 infection during childbirth, participated in the study. Statistical data analysis was performed. During the COVID-19 pandemic, women's care was characterized by always or almost always adequate information from health professionals on all issues to minimize the stress of new procedures necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic and allowing them to stay with newborns as long as possible. The application of the principle of informed consent to interventions during the COVID-19 pandemic was not always applied to the performance of transvaginal examination manual compression of the uterine fundus to facilitate the expulsion period. Most women said that they were properly informed by healthcare professionals about all questions related to the new procedures that became necessary due to the COVID-19 pandemic and felt included in their own choice. However, mothers felt the need of relatives during childbirth, and consent was often not asked for vaginal examination.

Impact of exercise on cancer: mechanistic perspectives and new insights.

This review critically evaluates the substantial role of exercise in enhancing cancer prevention, treatment, and patient quality of life. It conclusively demonstrates that regular physical activity not only reduces cancer risk but also significantly mitigates side effects of cancer therapies. The key findings include notable improvements in fatigue management, reduction of cachexia symptoms, and enhancement of cognitive functions. Importantly, the review elucidates the profound impact of exercise on tumor behavior, modulation of immune responses, and optimization of metabolic pathways, advocating for the integration of exercise into standard oncological care protocols. This refined abstract encourages further exploration and application of exercise as a pivotal element of cancer management.

Construction of a Perioperative Care Protocol for Individuals with Intestinal Ostomies

Objective: To develop a nursing protocol to guide perioperative care for individuals with intestinal ostomies. Method: A methodological study conducted between March and June 2022, using a quantitative approach. The study was divided into three stages: 1) an exploratory phase to determine the characteristics of the target population using a questionnaire; 2) the definition of perioperative recommendations based on Enhanced Recovery After Surgery® (ERAS); and 3) the creation of the protocol. Data analysis involved simple descriptive statistics. Results: Ten (10) patients responded preoperatively, while only six (6) responded postoperatively. Preoperative education was provided by nurses in 50% of cases. Findings showed an absence of ostomy site marking in 90% of cases, insufficient self-care in 60%, and postoperative complications in 60%, including edema, mucocutaneous separation, contact dermatitis, peristomal hernia, edge maceration, and granuloma. The proposed protocol consists of a care flowchart with four lines of follow-up within the institution and a consolidated framework with four key axes of perioperative nursing actions. Each axis includes sub-axes that detail specific guidelines to be implemented. Conclusion: The situational analysis of the target population and perioperative complications demonstrated the feasibility of developing a perioperative care protocol focused on the immediate preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases.

Improving birth experiences and provider interactions: Expert opinion on critical links in Maternity care.

This article explores the Quality of Provider Interaction (QPI) within maternity care, spotlighting its crucial role in positive childbirth experiences. It emphasizes the need for trust-based relationships between women and their care providers, a necessity amplified by the profound neurohormonal sensitivities experienced during labor. Drawing from the 'Optimizing the birth environment' COST DEVOTION CA18211 Working Group, this article aims to provide insights and stimulate discussion on how to mitigate birth trauma and improve childbirth experiences. The study evolved through discussions on QPI, engagement with the group, a review of COST Action research, and conference contributions, leading to essential recommendations. From our dialogue and evaluation of existing literature, we identified four pivotal aspects critical to enhancing QPI: 1) Empathy and emotional availability, 2) Trauma-informed maternity care, 3) Integrating woman-centered individual and institutional attitudes, and 4) Empowering language use. We examine how these elements influence women's emotional and psychological well-being throughout childbirth and beyond, underscoring their critical contribution. This article proposes a framework to improve maternity care by enhancing the Quality of Provider Interaction (QPI). It offers practical recommendations for refining care protocols and language guidelines, emphasizing the importance of respectful, secure birthing environments. Adopting care models that prioritize high-quality provider interactions is crucial for the well-being of women and their families.

Care protocol for reception in an emergency care unit in the context of COVID-19 (2020-2021)

Resumo Pesquisa qualitativa tipo pesquisa-ação cujo objetivo foi descrever o processo de reorganização do fluxo assistencial de uma UPA para o enfrentamento da pandemia de Covid-19, a partir da implantação de protocolos assistenciais. O problema coletivo foi a organização do fluxo de atendimento de pessoas com síndrome gripal (SG). O estudo considerou os ciclos da pesquisa-ação propostos por Tripp (2005). Na fase de planejamento foi desenvolvido o fluxo de atendimentos de pacientes com SG mediante análise de normativas, estrutura física e recursos disponíveis. Durante a implementação, foram estabelecidas parcerias intersetoriais para adequação física, capacitação dos profissionais e redimensionamento da equipe. A descrição do processo de planejamento e implementação deu-se por meio de relatórios e dados coletados dos equipamentos de gestão da unidade e da Secretaria Municipal de Saúde. A avaliação foi realizada de forma contínua, com base na retroalimentação da literatura e da prática refletida. A reorganização da unidade com implantação de protocolos assistenciais e divisão de fluxos evidenciou pontos positivos, como participação e envolvimento da equipe, revisão de processos, busca por evidências e parcerias intersetoriais; e negativos, como a dificuldade na segregação do paciente com SG dentro da estrutura física da UPA.

Nursing care protocol for critical users with tracheostomy under mechanical ventilation.

to develop and assess a nursing care protocol for critically ill users with tracheostomy under mechanical ventilation. a methodological study, developed through two phases, guided by the 5W2H management tool: I) target audience characterization and II) technology development. thirty-four nursing professionals participated in this study, who presented educational demands in relation to care for critical users with tracheostomy, with an emphasis on standardizing care through a protocol and carrying out continuing education. the creation and validity of new technologies aimed at this purpose enhanced the participation of nursing professionals and their empowerment in the health institution's microsectoral actions and in macrosectoral actions, highlighting the need for public policies that guarantee the conduct of a line of care for users with tracheostomy.

BENEFITS OF A CLINICAL PATHWAY IN TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY.

Demonstrate whether a multiprofessional Clinical Pathway Program in Total Knee Arthroplasty (CPPA) contributesto optimizing hospital care. Retrospective study of medical data of care indicators in 310 patients divided into two groups: A- who underwent arthroplasty in the last biennium before the introduction of the CPPA (n=144) and group B- who underwent TKA in the biennium after the introduction of the CPPA (n=166). Postoperative showed a significant difference in favor of group B over group A for hospitalization time in days 4.33 ± 2.79 and 5.4 ± 1.67 (p<0.001), time of prophylactic antibiotic in hours 28.13 ± 33.77 and 81.49 ± 40.91 (p<0.001), referral to the intensive care unit 40.9% and 73.4% (p<0.001), initiation of thromboprophylaxis within 24 hours 97.9% and 82.5% (p<0.001), use of elastic stockings and/or intermittent compression prescribed for thromboprophylaxis 89.5% and 31.2% (p<0.001), initiation of rehabilitation within 24 hours 90.1% and 66.1% (p<0.001), readmissions within 30 days 4.1% and 3% (p = 0.76), readmissions 90 days 2.7% and 6.6% (p = 0.183), transfusions 5.5% and 15.2% (p = 0.033). The implementation of a multiprofessional CPPA contributed to the implementation of care protocols, favoring greater patient safety. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective Comparative Study.

Anticoagulation Stewardship to Bridge the Implementation Gap in Perioperative Anticoagulation Management.

Lack of alignment of care protocols among providers in health care is a driver of increased costs and suboptimal patient outcomes. Perioperative anticoagulation management is a good example of a complex area where protocol creation is a clinical challenge that demands input from multiple experts. Questions regarding the need for anticoagulation interruptions are frequent. Yet, due to layers of complexity involving analysis of anticoagulation indication, surgical risk, and anesthesia-associated bleeding risk as well as institutional practices, there is heterogeneity in how these interruptions are approached. The recent perioperative anticoagulation guidelines from the American College of Chest Physicians summarize extensive evidence for the management of anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications in patients who undergo elective interventions. However, implementation of these guidelines by individual clinicians is highly varied and often does not follow the best available clinical evidence. Against this background, anticoagulation stewardship units, which exist to improve safety and quality monitoring for the anticoagulated patient, are of growing interest. These units provide a bridge for the implementation of value-based, high-quality guidelines for patients who need perioperative anticoagulation interruption. We use a case to pragmatically illustrate the problem and tactics for change management and implementation science that may facilitate the adoption of perioperative anticoagulation guidelines.