Assessment Checklist Research Articles

Validity Study of the Maladaptive Behavior Assessment Checklist for Children with Developmental Disabilities (MABAC-CDD)

The MABAC-CDD was developed to address a requirement of an updated, standardized, comprehensive assessment tool in the area of maladaptive behaviors or problem behaviors for use with the Indian population. This study aimed to assess the validity of the MABAC-CDD checklist in order to standardize the tool, which is a 107-item frequency-based checklist with 14 areas or sub-domains that assess maladaptive behavior or problem behaviors for children with developmental disabilities below the age of 18 years. The study found the MABAC-CDD tool to have statistically significant criterion validity established through Pearson coefficient correlation at r=0.43 (p=<.001). The results of the validity of the 14 areas or sub-domains of MABAC-CDD are also discussed. This study helps in standardizing the tool and in establishing the validity of the MABAC-CDD for assessment of maladaptive behaviors among children with developmental disabilities in India.

Identification of the most cost-saving disease-modifying therapies and factors affecting the budget in the pharmacotherapy of multiple sclerosis: a systematic review.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated disease that has a considerable health-related quality of life interference. Various disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) in MS management have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration or are currently used off-label. DMTs aim to slow down the progression of MS and decrease the frequency of relapses. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the budget impact of DMTs worldwide. A systematic search query was made to identify related articles in scientific databases. Eligible papers included their characteristics and model inputs, and results were extracted and reported. To critique the standard reporting of studies, a 32-item quality assessment checklist was used. From 1865 records, 22 original budget-impact analyses (BIAs) were included. All BIAs were accepted in the quality assessment (Mean score: 84.4). The most used DMT was β-interferons and natalizumab among novel DMTs. The results of BIAs were highly sensitive to the route of administration, costs of side effects and administration, and presence of biosimilars. However, glatiramer acetate has not experienced significant discounts was the most reported budget-saving DMT. From the results, it can be concluded the budget impact of DMTs in managing symptoms and improving the quality of life of MS patients according to the setting included in the modeling and according to specific conditions and context is different and significantly affects the results of BIAs. For accurate predictions of the effects of DMTs on the distribution of budgets in the MS population, more specific BIAs with higher quality should be done.

Performance Comparison of Junior Residents and ChatGPT in the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) for Medical History Taking and Documentation of Medical Records: Development and Usability Study.

This study explores the cutting-edge abilities of large language models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT in medical history taking and medical record documentation, with a focus on their practical effectiveness in clinical settings-an area vital for the progress of medical artificial intelligence. Our aim was to assess the capability of ChatGPT versions 3.5 and 4.0 in performing medical history taking and medical record documentation in simulated clinical environments. The study compared the performance of nonmedical individuals using ChatGPT with that of junior medical residents. A simulation involving standardized patients was designed to mimic authentic medical history-taking interactions. Five nonmedical participants used ChatGPT versions 3.5 and 4.0 to conduct medical histories and document medical records, mirroring the tasks performed by 5 junior residents in identical scenarios. A total of 10 diverse scenarios were examined. Evaluation of the medical documentation created by laypersons with ChatGPT assistance and those created by junior residents was conducted by 2 senior emergency physicians using audio recordings and the final medical records. The assessment used the Objective Structured Clinical Examination benchmarks in Taiwan as a reference. ChatGPT-4.0 exhibited substantial enhancements over its predecessor and met or exceeded the performance of human counterparts in terms of both checklist and global assessment scores. Although the overall quality of human consultations remained higher, ChatGPT-4.0's proficiency in medical documentation was notably promising. The performance of ChatGPT 4.0 was on par with that of human participants in Objective Structured Clinical Examination evaluations, signifying its potential in medical history and medical record documentation. Despite this, the superiority of human consultations in terms of quality was evident. The study underscores both the promise and the current limitations of LLMs in the realm of clinical practice.

AI-Based Noninvasive Blood Glucose Monitoring: Scoping Review.

Current blood glucose monitoring (BGM) methods are often invasive and require repetitive pricking of a finger to obtain blood samples, predisposing individuals to pain, discomfort, and infection. Noninvasive blood glucose monitoring (NIBGM) is ideal for minimizing discomfort, reducing the risk of infection, and increasing convenience. This review aimed to map the use cases of artificial intelligence (AI) in NIBGM. A systematic scoping review was conducted according to the Arksey O'Malley five-step framework. Eight electronic databases (CINAHL, Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, The Cochrane-Central Library, ACM Digital Library, and IEEE Xplore) were searched from inception until February 8, 2023. Study selection was conducted by 2 independent reviewers, descriptive analysis was conducted, and findings were presented narratively. Study characteristics (author, country, type of publication, study design, population characteristics, mean age, types of noninvasive techniques used, and application, as well as characteristics of the BGM systems) were extracted independently and cross-checked by 2 investigators. Methodological quality appraisal was conducted using the Checklist for assessment of medical AI. A total of 33 papers were included, representing studies from Asia, the United States, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa published between 2005 and 2023. Most studies used optical techniques (n=19, 58%) to estimate blood glucose levels (n=27, 82%). Others used electrochemical sensors (n=4), imaging (n=2), mixed techniques (n=2), and tissue impedance (n=1). Accuracy ranged from 35.56% to 94.23% and Clarke error grid (A+B) ranged from 86.91% to 100%. The most popular machine learning algorithm used was random forest (n=10) and the most popular deep learning model was the artificial neural network (n=6). The mean overall checklist for assessment of medical AI score on the included papers was 33.5 (SD 3.09), suggesting an average of medium quality. The studies reviewed demonstrate that some AI techniques can accurately predict glucose levels from noninvasive sources while enhancing comfort and ease of use for patients. However, the overall range of accuracy was wide due to the heterogeneity of models and input data. Efforts are needed to standardize and regulate the use of AI technologies in BGM, as well as develop consensus guidelines and protocols to ensure the quality and safety of AI-assisted monitoring systems. The use of AI for NIBGM is a promising area of research that has the potential to revolutionize diabetes management.

Comparison of virtual and in-person simulations for sepsis and trauma resuscitation training in Singapore: a randomized controlled trial.

This study aimed to compare cognitive, non-cognitive, and overall learning outcomes for sepsis and trauma resuscitation skills in novices with virtual patient simulation (VPS) versus in-person simulation (IPS). A randomized controlled trial was conducted on junior doctors in emergency departments from January to December 2022, comparing 70 minutes of VPS (n=19) versus IPS (n=21) in sepsis and trauma resuscitation. Using the nominal group technique, we created skills assessment checklists and determined Bloom's taxonomy domains for each checklist item. Two blinded raters observed participants leading 1 sepsis and 1 trauma resuscitation simulation. Satisfaction was measured using the Student Satisfaction with Learning Scale (SSLS). The SSLS and checklist scores were analyzed using the 2-tailed t-test. For sepsis, there was no significant difference between VPS and IPS in overall scores (2.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], -1.4 to 5.4; Cohen's d=0.38), as well as in items that were cognitive (1.1; 95% CI, -1.5 to 3.7) and not only cognitive (0.9; 95% CI, -0.4 to 2.2). Likewise, for trauma, there was no significant difference in overall scores (-0.9; 95% CI, -4.1 to 2.3; Cohen's d=0.19), as well as in items that were cognitive (-0.3; 95% CI, -2.8 to 2.1) and not only cognitive (-0.6; 95% CI, -2.4 to 1.3). The median SSLS scores were lower with VPS than with IPS (-3.0; 95% CI, -1.0 to -5.0). For novices, there were no major differences in overall and non-cognitive learning outcomes for sepsis and trauma resuscitation between VPS and IPS. Learners were more satisfied with IPS than with VPS (clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT05201950).

Evaluation of Preclinical Class I Amalgam Cavity Preparation: A Comparison of Two Assessment Methods

Preclinical assessment forms an effective strategy in undergraduate training. It enhances the continuous development of skills, facilitates early intervention, and optimizes training resources. Constructive feedback provided to the student fosters continuous improvement in preparedness for professional practice and has implications for the development of a learning culture characterized by student activity. This indeed ensures that a smooth transition will be made toward clinical application of skills. The aim of the study was to evaluate examiner`s reliabilities while applying two different assessment methods: a Glance and Grade assessment method and a Checklist and Criteria assessment method. A total of 100 class I amalgam cavity preparations were assessed by three independent examiners to evaluate Class I amalgam cavity preparations on artificial first mandibular molar teeth prepared by second-year undergraduate dental students in a preclinical laboratory setting. Statistical analysis for inter-examiner and intra-examiner variability was tested using one-way ANOVA test and a paired t-test, respectively. Results of this study showed that intra-examiner variability was significantly reduced with Checklist and Criteria assessment method. The inter-examiner variability was present in a Glance and Grade assessment method while with the Checklist and Criteria assessment method, there was an extremely high level of agreement among the examiners. The study's findings indicated considerable variability among examiners using the Glance and Grade assessment method. However, the Checklist and Criteria assessment method demonstrated remarkable consistency among examiners, indicating that it may offer a more standardized and reliable approach to evaluation.

Postoperative bleeding outcome of fresh frozen plasma prime in pediatric cardiac surgery: A systematic review & meta-analysis.

Bleeding after cardiac surgeries holds risk of mortality and morbidity in pediatrics. This systematic review aimed to evaluate postoperative blood loss and blood transfusion requirements for pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery with fresh frozen plasma (FFP) priming. In 2024, the search reviewed four databases on randomized trials (RCTs) examining the impact of FFP prime intervention on 24-h postoperative blood loss and transfusion requirements in pediatric cardiac surgeries. The journals were appraised using Grading of Recommendation Assessment, Development, and Evaluation checklists, and random effects models estimated the effect size with a 95% confidence interval. Significance and study heterogeneity were indicated by p-values and I2. Of the screened 2070 articles, one high-quality and four moderate-quality RCTs involving 354 children were identified. No significant reduction in 24-h mean postoperative blood loss was found following FFP priming (mean difference MD: -0.78, 95% CI [-3.3 to 1.75], p = .55) in general pediatric cardiac surgeries. However, subgroup analysis showed significant decrease in blood loss for younger children (<7 months) or those with lower body weight (<6kg). There was no significant difference between groups in FFP (MD: -0.19, 95% CI [-0.42 to 0.05], p = .13) or red blood cell transfusion (MD: -0.25, 95% CI [-0.51 to 0.02], p = .07). Administering FFP as prime fluid in cardiac surgery did not reduce postoperative bleeding in general pediatric patients, but younger children (<7 months) and those with lower weight (<6kg) were the subjects who benefited from the FFP priming before surgery.

The Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Therapy on Quality of Life, Anxiety, and Depression in Individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

: The primary objective of this systematic review was to determine the efficacy of mindfulness-based therapy in improving the quality of life for individuals diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Following the PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted using major databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, PsycInfo, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library, for clinical trial articles published between 2010/01/30 and 2024/05/30. The search strategy incorporated keywords such as "IBS," "Mindfulness," "quality of life," and "anxiety." The systematic review included 20 studies, with sample sizes ranging from 3 to 95 patients. A meta-analysis was subsequently performed on ten articles, focusing on the impact of mindfulness-based therapy on enhancing the quality of life in IBS patients. The Verhagen quality assessment checklist was used to qualitatively evaluate these articles. The study's findings were presented in two main sections using the random-effects model during the meta-analysis. First, the influence of mindfulness-based therapy on patients' quality of life was examined. The results showed a statistically significant improvement in the quality of life following this therapeutic intervention (Standardized Mean Difference [SMD] = -0.683, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] = -1.326, -0.039, P = 0.000). Additionally, mindfulness-based therapy significantly reduced anxiety (SMD = 0.679, 95% CI = 0.354, 1.004) and depression symptoms (SMD = 0.496, 95% CI = 0.284, 0.708) in these individuals. The findings of this systematic review suggest that mindfulness-based therapy is effective in improving the quality of life for individuals with IBS, while also reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Given the potentially harmful side effects of pharmacological treatments for these patients, it is essential to prioritize therapeutic and non-pharmacological interventions, such as mindfulness-based therapy.

Predicting hospital readmission in multimorbid patients with the use of AI: A systematic review

Abstract Background Multimorbid patients are at higher risk of hospital readmission due to the complex nature of their conditions. Identifying those who may be at particularly high risk would allow us to intervene early and potentially delay or prevent such readmissions occurring, thus reducing healthcare costs. We conducted a systematic review investigating the use of machine learning models in predicting 30-days unplanned hospital readmission of multimorbid patients. Methods This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Guidelines, and was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022373937). We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL). Included studies developed an AI model for prediction of 30-days hospital readmission for adult patients with two or more health conditions. The CHARM and PROBAST checklists for data extraction and bias assessment were used. The quality of included studies was assessed with the CASP checklist. Results Eighteen papers were eligible for inclusion. A total of 669 predictors were reported with an average of 37 used per model. Predictors were classified as modifiable and non-modifiable with the most common modifiable predictors being hospital length of stay, hypertension, anaemia and obesity. Average sensitivity and specificity of the models was reported to be 72% in 13 studies and 79.2 in 11 studies, respectively. Area under the curve (AUC) was reported in 13 studies, five of which were considered to have good discrimination power (AUC&amp;gt;0.8). Conclusions Machine learning models are capable of accurately predicting 30-days hospital readmission of multimorbid patients. Identifying modifiable predictors with highest weight allows for better planning and resource allocation to potentially reduce the risk of 30-days readmissions. An important area for future work would be the implementation of these high performance models in practice. Key messages • Hospital readmissions are preventable and identifying those at higher risk allows us to intervene early. • Machine learning models are capable of predicting 30-days readmission of multimorbid patients.

Comparison of the effects of medication error encouragement training and problem-based scenario on the medication safety competence and knowledge of nursing students: A quasi-experimental study

BackgroundMedication errors among nursing students pose a threat to medication safety. Medication Error Encouragement Training and Problem Based Scenario are two innovative educational methods used in medication education. AimCompare the effects of Medication Error Encouragement Training and Problem Based Scenario on the knowledge and competency of medication safety among nursing students. DesignQuasi -experimental, double-blind, two-group pretest-posttest study. MethodThis study was conducted in 2023. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: one group received the Medication Error Encouragement Training method, while the other group was taught using the Problem-Based Scenario method. Data collection was performed using the Medication Safety Critical Element Checklist and Medication Safety Knowledge Assessment before and four weeks after the intervention. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 16. ResultsThe Pair t-test demonstrated that the change in competency and knowledge scores of medication safety before and after the intervention was significant in both groups (P< 0.05). The results of the Mancova test indicated a significant increase in medication safety competency scores in the Medication Error Encouragement Training group compared with the Problem Based Scenario group after the intervention (P< 0.05), while there was no significant difference in medication safety knowledge scores between the two groups after the intervention (P> 0.05). ConclusionThe Medication Error Encouragement and Problem Based Scenario methods were effective in increasing the knowledge and competency of medication safety among students, but the effectiveness of the Medication Error Encouragement method was more pronounced in achieving safe medication administration.

Development of a Cognitive Assessment Checklist for First-Grade Mathematics: Utilizing Hierarchical Cognitive Diagnostic Modeling in Elementary Education

This study aimed to address the need for a comprehensive assessment tool to evaluate the mathematical abilities of first-grade students through cognitive diagnostic assessment (CDA). The primary challenge involved in this endeavor was to delineate the specific cognitive skills and sub-skills pertinent to first-grade mathematics (FG-M) and to determine the most suitable model for assessment. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research identified nine cognitive attributes essential for FG-M and developed a Q-matrix delineating the relationship between these attributes. A preliminary version of the FG-M checklist comprising 74 items was formulated. Subsequently, the assessment tool was administered to 1018 first-grade students, with their teachers utilizing the FG-M checklist for evaluation. Results indicated a commendable accuracy in classifying the nine cognitive attributes, ranging from 0.68 to 0.92, with an average accuracy of 0.76. Furthermore, the validity of the scores was corroborated by a substantial correlation (r = 0.78) between scores from the FG-M checklist and the arithmetic subtest of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, Fourth Edition (WISC-IV). Overall, the study concluded that the scores from the FG-M checklist are reliable for assessing the mathematical skills of first-grade students. The findings underscored the students’ proficiency in fundamental mathematical concepts such as cardinality, addition, subtraction, weight, and statistics. However, areas of weakness were identified in concepts related to multiplication, time, symmetry, and geometry. This research contributes significantly to the advancement of CDA in educational contexts, providing educators with a valuable tool for identifying students’ strengths and weaknesses in mathematical cognition.

Serviced Housing for Older People and Prevention of Functional Decline: A One-year Follow-up Study in Japan.

Serviced Housing for Older People (SHOP) is a community-based housing model in Japan that provides barrier-free apartments and support services for residents. Whether the SHOP model has positive effects on residents' health remains unclear. This follow-up study examines the association between living in SHOPs and functional decline. Using data from the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study, we compared functional decline risks at one-year follow-up between older adults living in conventional housing (n = 2202) and SHOP residents (n = 160). Functional decline risk was assessed using the Kihon Checklist (KCL) and Care-Need Risk Assessment Scale (CNRAS). SHOPs residents had lower KCL and CNRAS scores than older adults living in conventional housing. In sensitivity analyses, these associations remained unchanged. The results, thus, showed that residing in SHOPs was associated with reduced functional decline; therefore, SHOPs designed to support residents' physical and social health could be important for supporting aging in place.

Effect of telenursing on self-efficacy among diabetic patients: A systematic review

This systematic review aimed to investigate the impact of telenursing on self-efficacy among patients who have experienced myocardial infarctions. The study conducted a comprehensive search of international electronic databases, including Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science, spanning from the earliest available records to September 15, 2023. The search used keywords derived from Medical Subject Headings, specifically "telenursing", "self-efficacy", and "myocardial infarction". Additionally, Iranian databases such as Iranmedex and Scientific Information Database were consulted. The quality assessment of included studies, which consisted of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental studies, was performed using the Joanna Briggs Institute's (JBI) critical assessment checklist. The review included a total of five studies involving 478 diabetic patients. Among these patients, 74.32% were female, and 52.00% were allocated to the intervention group. The average age of the participants was 48.76 (SD=7.48) years. The mean duration of the studies and their respective follow-up periods were 32.80 and 12.80 weeks, respectively. Furthermore, the average duration of the telenursing intervention was 23.33 minutes. The findings of this review indicated that telenursing can be an effective method for enhancing self-efficacy among patients. The study suggests that healthcare managers and policymakers should consider establishing a platform that not only incorporates telenursing via phone calls but also incorporates alternative methods like video calls. This approach should aim to balance the costs associated with these different methods to ensure accessibility for all individuals. Consequently, alongside traditional telephone-based telenursing, other modalities can be integrated to promote self-efficacy.

Evaluation of Measure Dx, a Resource to Accelerate Diagnostic Safety Learning and Improvement.

Several strategies have been developed to detect diagnostic errors for organizational learning and improvement. However, few health care organizations (HCOs) have integrated these strategies into routine operations. To address this gap, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality released "Measure Dx: A Resource To Identify, Analyze, and Learn From Diagnostic Safety Events" in 2022. We conducted an evaluation of Measure Dx to measure feasibility of implementation and effects on short-term and intermediate outcomes related to diagnostic safety. Prospective observational study. Teams from 11 HCOs, primarily academic medical centers. Participants were asked to use Measure Dx over approximately 6months and attend monthly virtual learning collaborative sessions to share and discuss approaches to measuring diagnostic safety. Descriptive outcomes were gathered at the HCO level and included uptake of different case-finding strategies and the number of cases reviewed and confirmed to have diagnostic safety improvement opportunities. We collected information on organizational practices related to diagnostic safety at each HCO at baseline and at the conclusion of the project. The 11 HCOs completed all requirements for the evaluation. Each of the four diagnostic safety case finding strategies outlined in Measure Dx were used by at least three HCOs. Across the cohort, participants reviewed 703 cases using a standardized data collection instrument. Of those cases, 224 (31.8%) were identified as diagnostic safety events with improvement opportunities. Unexpectedly, self-ratings on the checklist assessment declined for several organizations. Use of Measure Dx can help accelerate implementation of systematic approaches to diagnostic error measurement and learning across a variety of HCOs, while potentially enabling HCOs to identify opportunities to improve diagnostic safety practices.

Natural history of otitis media with effusion without hearing loss in children under 12 years: a systematic review

ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the natural history of otitis media with effusion (OME) without hearing loss in children under 12 years.MethodsWe performed a systematic search in Embase, CINAHL, MEDLINE,...

Reliability and Validity Evidences of Tej Emotional and Behavioral Problem Checklist (TEJ-CL) for Child Mental Health Assessment in Nepal

Introduction: The Tej Emotional and Behavioral Problem Checklist (TEJ-CL) was developed in Nepalese context to aid assessment of childhood emotional and problems of children. This study aimed to evaluate TEJ-CL's factor structure, reliability, and validity evidences as an add-on and symptom monitoring test.Methods: This cross-sectional validation study included guardians of 320 children (age 5 – 17 years) from tertiary mental health centers in Kathmandu as referred group, along with 601 children from two schools (private and community) in Kathmandu as non-referred group.Study was conducted after obtaining ethical approval (ref: 183 (6-11-E)2/073/074 and ref: 776). TEJ-CL, an 89-item parent-reported questionnaire, served as the index test, while referral status acted as the reference standard. Factor structure, internal consistency, test-retest/ cross-informant correlations and criterion validity evidence was assessed using principal component analysis, coefficient alpha, spearman's rank correlation and linear regression models, respectively.Results: Analysis was done using 179 referred and 412 non-referred individuals based on non-missing data. Principal component analysis in referred sample reduced the number of items of questionnaire to 65 from 89 and indicated six factors: externalizing behavioral issues, anxiety/worries, upset/sadness, somatic concern, miscellaneous syndrome, and severe issues with coefficient alpha ranging from .62 to .95. As criterion validity evidence, referred children showed significantly higher scores than non-referred children across composite and factor scores, except for anxiety/worries factor. Similarly, regression analyses within the referred group demonstrated significant associations between factor scores and specific diagnoses.Conclusions: Reliability and validity estimate of questionnaire is comparable to similar empirically based scales. Future research should focus on assessing the tool's generalizability and improving discriminatory indexes.

Effect of telenursing on self-efficacy among myocardial infarction patients: A systematic review

A systematic review was conducted to investigate the impact of telenursing on self-efficacy in patients who have experienced Myocardial infarction (MI). We systematically searched international electronic databases, including Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science, from their inception to September 1, 2023, using keywords derived from Medical Subject Headings such as "telenursing", "self-efficacy", and "myocardial infarction". Furthermore, we explored Iranian databases like Iranmedex and Scientific Information Database. The quality of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental studies was assessed using the critical assessment checklist from the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). A total of 220 MI patients were enrolled in four studies. Of the MI patients, 67.29% were male and 50.00% were in the intervention group. The mean age of participants was 57.25 (SD=7.34) years. Of the included studies, four were quasi-experimental studies, three studies were conducted in Iran, and one study was conducted in Egypt. The mean study follow-up was 6 weeks. Also, the mean duration of the intervention was 11.67 minutes. In all studies, interventions were effective in increasing MI patients' self-efficacy. In sum, the findings demonstrated that telenursing can be effectively utilized by nurses to enhance the self-efficacy of patients. We recommend that healthcare managers and policymakers establish a platform that not only incorporates telenursing via telephone calls but also integrates other methods, such as video calls. This approach should aim to balance the costs associated with different telenursing methods, ensuring accessibility for all individuals. Consequently, in addition to traditional telephone calls, alternative telenursing modalities can be employed to enhance self-efficacy.

Effect of acupressure on anxiety in hemodialysis patients: A systematic review

This systematic review was conducted to investigate the impact of acupressure on anxiety levels among patients undergoing hemodialysis. International electronic databases, including Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science, were meticulously searched from the inception of the databases to January 8, 2024, employing keywords derived from Medical Subject Headings such as "Acupressure", "Anxiety", and "Hemodialysis". Additionally, Iranian databases such as Iranmedex were scrutinized. The quality of randomized controlled trials was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute's (JBI) critical assessment checklist. A total of four studies, encompassing 496 participants, were included in the analysis. Among the participants, 51.00% were female, with 67.34% allocated to the intervention group. The mean age of the participants was 40.48 (SD=8.75) years. The average study duration and follow-up period were approximately 28 and 4 weeks, respectively. The average intervention duration was 8.33 minutes. The findings underscored the efficacy of acupressure administered by healthcare professionals, such as nurses, in mitigating anxiety levels. This underscores the recommendation for healthcare managers and policymakers to create an environment conducive to the utilization of acupressure by healthcare professionals within hospital settings. Such measures can contribute to the alleviation of anxiety among patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Effects of reflexology on pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review

This systematic review was conducted to investigate the impact of reflexology on pain management in individuals diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. A comprehensive search was executed on international electronic databases, including Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Iranian electronic library including Iranmedex and Scientific Information Database, covering the earliest available data up to January 25, 2024. The search employed keywords derived from Medical Subject Headings such as "reflexology", "pain", and "rheumatoid arthritis". The quality assessment of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute's (JBI) critical assessment checklist. A total of four studies, encompassing 206 participants, were included in the review. Notably, 70.97% of the enrolled patients were female, with 61.17% assigned to the intervention group. The mean age of participants was 50.06 (standard deviation [SD]=8.48) years. The average study duration and follow-up period were approximately 25 and 5 weeks, respectively, with an intervention duration averaging 40 minutes. In three studies interventions were effective in decreasing pain of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. However, in one study, the intervention was not effective in decreasing pain of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The findings indicated that health professionals, including nurses, can effectively employ reflexology as a means to alleviate pain in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. Consequently, it is recommended that healthcare managers and policymakers create an enabling environment within hospitals, facilitating the integration of reflexology into patient care protocols. This strategic approach holds the potential for reducing the pain experienced by patients afflicted with rheumatoid arthritis.

Checklist of Aquatic Macrophytes and Water Quality Assessment of Kakarikata Beel, Jorhat District, Assam

Checklist of Aquatic Macrophytes and Water Quality Assessment of Kakarikata Beel, Jorhat District, Assam