Development Of Interventions Research Articles

Parent Intention to Participate in an Online Intervention to Enhance Health Behavior Change Among Youth Treated with Psychotropic Medication Who are Overweight or Obese: An Application of the Theory of Planned Behavior.

Youth with mental health disorders (MHD), particularly those who take psychotropic medications, are at increased risk of being overweight or obese (OW/OB) when compared to typical youth. Parents are important resources for interventions addressing OW/OB. However, parents of youth with MHD may face challenges that require interventions designed to address their needs. Prior to investing research funding in the development of interventions for this group, research is needed to understand factors associated with parents' decisions to enroll in these programs. The theory of planned behavior (TPB) provided a framework for examining parents' salient beliefs, direct attitudes, and intention to enroll in a hypothetical online healthy lifestyle intervention for their youth (ages 11-17) with OW/OB and treated with psychotropic medication. Parents who were enrolled in the study (n = 84) completed demographic questionnaires and a TPB questionnaire which was constructed for this study. A confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) of the direct attitude (i.e., attitude toward the behavior, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control) questions generally supported the three-factor model (i.e., RMSEA = .07, 90% CI .03-.11, p = .18; CFI = .96, SRMR = .06). Results from a multiple regression analysis demonstrated that direct attitudes predicted parent intention to participate in an online healthy lifestyle intervention for this sample of youth accounting for 84% of variance. In this preliminary study, the TPB appears to be a promising framework for understanding direct attitudes associated with parent intentions toward intervention participation in this population of youth. Interventions for parents of youth with OW/OB who are prescribed psychotropic medication should consider addressing these direct attitudes to improve intention.

Characteristics of healthcare personnel with SARS-CoV-2 infection: 10 emerging infections program sites in the United States, April 2020-December 2021.

Understanding characteristics of healthcare personnel (HCP) with SARS-CoV-2 infection supports the development and prioritization of interventions to protect this important workforce. We report detailed characteristics of HCP who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 from April 20, 2020 through December 31, 2021. CDC collaborated with Emerging Infections Program sites in 10 states to interview HCP with SARS-CoV-2 infection (case-HCP) about their demographics, underlying medical conditions, healthcare roles, exposures, personal protective equipment (PPE) use, and COVID-19 vaccination status. We grouped case-HCP by healthcare role. To describe residential social vulnerability, we merged geocoded HCP residential addresses with CDC/ATSDR Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) values at the census tract level. We defined highest and lowest SVI quartiles as high and low social vulnerability, respectively. Our analysis included 7,531 case-HCP. Most case-HCP with roles as certified nursing assistant (CNA) (444, 61.3%), medical assistant (252, 65.3%), or home healthcare worker (HHW) (225, 59.5%) reported their race and ethnicity as either non-Hispanic Black or Hispanic. More than one third of HHWs (166, 45.2%), CNAs (283, 41.7%), and medical assistants (138, 37.9%) reported a residential address in the high social vulnerability category. The proportion of case-HCP who reported using recommended PPE at all times when caring for patients with COVID-19 was lowest among HHWs compared with other roles. To mitigate SARS-CoV-2 infection risk in healthcare settings, infection prevention, and control interventions should be specific to HCP roles and educational backgrounds. Additional interventions are needed to address high social vulnerability among HHWs, CNAs, and medical assistants.

HIV and prior exposure to antiretroviral therapy alter tumour composition and tumour: T-cell associations in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common subtype of lymphoma worldwide, accounting for up to 40% of new non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) globally. People living with HIV are up to 17 times more likely to develop NHL, and as such, DLBCL is the leading cause of cancer death in this high-risk population. While histologically indistinguishable, HIV-associated (HIV+) and HIV-negative (HIV-) DLBCL are molecularly distinct, and biological differences may have implications for the development of future therapeutic interventions. Further, the impact of immunologic differences in people with HIV, including preceding ART, remains largely unknown. Here, we investigate the impact of HIV infection and ART exposure on the clinical features of DLBCL and T-cell immune response by performing imaging mass cytometry on our unique patient cohort in Malawi. In this cohort, HIV infection is positively prognostic, and HIV+/ART-naïve patients have the best outcomes. No established biomarkers other than Ki67 are associated with HIV or ART status, and the only tumour-intrinsic biomarkers that remain prognostic are MYC and MYC/BCL2 protein co-expression. Finally, TCR clonality is associated with distinct tumour-T cell interactions by HIV/ART status, indicating differential anti-tumour immune responses. We demonstrate previously undescribed HIV and ART-related differences in the DLBCL tumour microenvironment.

Development and validation of the physical exercise program “Active Mums” for postpartum recovery: application of the CReDECI-2 guidelines

Postpartum physical activity is a public health issue. Reporting on the quality of exercise interventions designs must be ensured in view of the reproducibility and successful implementation of such studies. The objective was to develop and preliminary validate a physical exercise program for postpartum recovery, aiming to promote physical fitness and health of the new mothers. The study was carried out through the three stages of development, piloting, and evaluation. The Consensus on Exercise Reporting Template (CERT) was used to describe the postpartum exercise program. The Criteria for Reporting the Development and Evaluation of Complex Interventions in Healthcare (CReDECI2) was followed to develop and preliminary validate the program. A tailored postpartum exercise program was developed based on evidence-based international recommendations to be implemented by qualified exercise professionals. A pilot intervention of 16 weeks was carried out, engaging a group of postpartum women. The viability of the program was subsequently evaluated by all participants. The present work provided guidance to develop a study protocol with a larger sample in order to prove the effectiveness of a supervised postpartum exercise program on selected parameters of health.

The relationship between perceived family support and subclinical positive symptoms of psychosis among Black college students.

Black individuals in the Unites States endure compounded and unique experiences of discrimination and structural racism that may not be as overtly evident in other countries. These distinctive forms of discrimination and racism can impact the mental health of Black individuals in the Unites States, in this case, their risk for psychosis. Adolescence and early adulthood are vulnerable periods in life where mental illness typically begins to manifest. Understanding the factors contributing to an increased likelihood of specific mental illnesses, such as psychosis, among youth in these vulnerable periods can inform intervention development. This is particularly important for those from minoritized backgrounds Unites States; this group is especially important to study given that Black American youth tend to experience higher psychosis rates and different symptom presentations than non-Black groups. This study examined the associations between perceived family support, a critical environmental factor known to be associated with full-psychosis, and attenuated positive symptoms and distress levels in a sample of 155 Black students from a Historically Black College and University (HBCU). Participants completed the Prodromal Questionnaire-Brief that assessed psychosis risk and the Family Environment Scale that assessed three dimensions of family support (family cohesion, expressiveness, and conflict). Positive symptom intensity (r = .30, p < .001) and distress (r = .34, p < .001) were significantly associated with higher family conflict for Black individuals in the Unites States. The findings inform novel intervention targets for psychoeducation and family therapy that have potential to reduce psychosis risk.

Motivation for physical activity in the Jordanian military: Possible determinants of physical activity in male and female recruits

ABSTRACT Given the obligatory nature of physical fitness training in the military and in order to guide intervention development, our study assessed possible motivational determinants as suggested by self-determination theory in addition to other possible determinants. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 218 military recruits during their basic training in Jordan. Physical activity and lifestyle behaviors were measured using the Arab Teens Lifestyle Study (ATLS). Psychosocial variables were assessed using the Exercise Self-Efficacy Scale (ESE), Behavioral Regulation Exercise Scale (BREQ-2) and Exercise Benefits/Barriers Scale (EBBS). Bivariate correlation analysis revealed that identified self-regulation, introjected regulation and exercise self-efficacy scores were positively associated with higher Metabolic Equivalent of Task (METs) and minutes per week of physical activity among male recruits and the overall sample respectively. Among females, only external regulation was positively associated with the total METs/week. Being a male was significantly associated with higher minutes of physical activity among the overall sample. Multivariate regression analyses showed that identified regulation was significantly and positively associated with higher minutes of physical activity among the overall sample and male recruits in addition to higher METs per week among the male recruits. Also, the amotivation score was significantly and positively associated with higher minutes of physical activity among the overall sample and male recruits. A multivariate regression analysis for female recruits showed no significant associations. Intervention developers are advised to increase autonomous forms of motivation through structured enjoyable physical fitness programs in order to enhance intrinsic motivation in the long term.

Time matters for mental health: a systematic review of quantitative studies on time perspective in psychiatric populations.

The ability to perform mental time travels and to develop representations of the past, the present, and the future is one of the distinctive capacities of the human mind. Despite its pronounced consequences for motivation, cognition, affect, and subjective well being, time perspective (TP) has been outside mainstream psychiatry and clinical psychology. We highlight the role of psychological-temporal phenomena in various disorders and summarize the current research on TP and psychopathology. Our review ultimately comprised 21 articles, including 18 unique datasets. It revealed that persons with different psychiatric diagnoses (attention defict hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), alcohol dependence, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia) display different temporal profiles than control groups. We also found marked associations between temporal features and psychiatric symptom severity. The effects of specific TPs vary across different psychiatric diagnoses and to some extent between various age groups, with a consistent, widespread, and nonspecific effect of past-negative and less balanced, inflexible TP profile. Based on the review, TP biases are crucial factors in symptom development, while adaptive temporal profiles can serve as protective features against mental disorders. Understanding cognitive-temporal processes can enhance comprehension of psychopathological conditions and facilitate the development of temporality-focused clinical interventions.

Effect of osteopathic manipulation using SSDV protocol on improving motor coordination and hand eye coordination in children with developmental coordination disorder: a protocol for randomized controlled trial

Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) significantly impacts motor coordination and hand-eye coordination in children, affecting their daily activities and academic performance. This study aims to investigate the efficacy of Physical Rehabilitation utilizing the Sensory Stimulation and Developmental Vestibular (SSDV) protocol in improving motor coordination and hand-eye coordination in children diagnosed with DCD. Children diagnosed with DCD will be recruited and randomly allocated to either the intervention group receiving Physical Rehabilitation using the SSDV protocol or the control group receiving standard care. The intervention will involve a structured program incorporating sensory stimulation and developmental vestibular activities tailored to the individual needs of participants. Motor coordination and hand-eye coordination will be assessed using standardized measures such as the Movement Assessment Battery for Children (MABC) and the Beery-Buktenica Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration (Beery VMI). Assessments will be conducted at baseline, post-intervention, and follow-up time points. This randomized controlled trial seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of Physical Rehabilitation using the SSDV protocol in enhancing motor coordination and hand-eye coordination in children with DCD. By employing standardized measures, this study aims to provide objective insights into the impact of the intervention. Findings from this trial may contribute to the development of evidence-based interventions for children with DCD, potentially improving their motor skills and overall functioning in daily life and academic settings. Registration: CTRI/2024/03/064467

A scientometric analysis of bibliotherapy: mapping the research landscape

PurposeBibliotherapy, a therapeutic approach that uses books and reading materials to promote psychological well-being and personal growth, has become more prevalent in recent years. This scientometric study aims to provide a comprehensive view of the bibliotherapy research landscape by highlighting its evolution, trends, and noteworthy contributions using Biblioshiny and VOSviewer.Design/methodology/approachThe academic literature on bibliotherapy is evaluated in-depth in this study utilizing scientometric techniques, including citation and co-citation analysis. A thorough search of the Scopus database revealed 1,703 papers between 1942 and 2023 that dealt with bibliotherapy. For data analysis, the renowned applications Biblioshiny and VOSViewer are employed.FindingsThe study reveals that the output of publications has fluctuated, reflecting scholarly interest in this discipline. The distribution of research across various countries, organizations and academic subjects is investigated further to highlight the diverse and global extent of bibliotherapy research. By analyzing co-citation networks and locating pertinent publications and authors, this scientometric method analyzes the intellectual structure of bibliotherapy research.Research limitations/implicationsBibliometric analysis enriches the theoretical understanding of bibliotherapy by unveiling the networks, influential works and existing gaps in the literature, thus guiding a more informed and collaborative approach to future research and practice in the domain.Practical implicationsEmploying bibliometric analysis in bibliotherapy can refine practices and training programs, ensuring they are evidence-based and practical, enhancing the quality of therapeutic services provided to individuals.Originality/valueIt is a valuable resource for academics, practitioners and policymakers interested in the field since it offers a thorough and current assessment of the bibliotherapy research landscape. The findings of this study have the potential to steer future research, guide the development of bibliotherapeutic interventions supported by evidence and enhance the use of bibliotherapy as a therapeutic modality.

Mechanisms of complex regional pain syndrome

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain disorder characterized by a diverse array of symptoms, including pain that is disproportionate to the initial triggering event, accompanied by autonomic, sensory, motor, and sudomotor disturbances. The primary pathology of both types of CRPS (Type I, also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy, RSD; Type II, also known as causalgia) is featured by allodynia, edema, changes in skin color and temperature, and dystrophy, predominantly affecting extremities. Recent studies started to unravel the complex pathogenic mechanisms of CRPS, particularly from an autoimmune and neuroimmune interaction perspective. CRPS is now recognized as a systemic disease that stems from a complex interplay of inflammatory, immunologic, neurogenic, genetic, and psychologic factors. The relative contributions of these factors may vary among patients and even within a single patient over time. Key mechanisms underlying clinical manifestations include peripheral and central sensitization, sympathetic dysregulation, and alterations in somatosensory processing. Enhanced understanding of the mechanisms of CRPS is crucial for the development of effective therapeutic interventions. While our mechanistic understanding of CRPS remains incomplete, this article updates recent research advancements and sheds light on the etiology, pathogenesis, and molecular underpinnings of CRPS.

Comparison of HIIT and MICT and further detraining on metabolic syndrome and asprosin signaling pathway in metabolic syndrome model of rats

Physical activity promotes various metabolic benefits by balancing pro and anti-inflammatory adipokines. Recent studies suggest that asprosin might be involved in progression of metabolic syndrome (MetS), however, the underlying mechanisms have not been understood yet. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT), and further detraining on MetS indices, insulin resistance, serum and the liver levels of asprosin, and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway in menopause-induced MetS model of rats. A total of 64 Wistar rats were used in this study and divided into eight groups: Sham1, OVX1 (ovariectomized), Sham2, OVX2, OVX + HIIT, OVX + MICT, OVX + HIIT + Det (detraining), and OVX + MICT + Det. Animals performed the protocols, and then serum concentrations of asprosin, TNF-α, insulin, fasting blood glucose, and lipid profiles (TC, LDL, TG, and HDL) were assessed. Additionally, the liver expression of asprosin, AMPK, and P-AMPK was measured by western blotting. Both HIIT and MICT caused a significant decrease in weight, waist circumference, BMI (P = 0.001), and serum levels of glucose, insulin, asprosin (P = 0.001), triglyceride, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and TNF-α (P = 0.001), but an increase in the liver AMPK, P-AMPK, and P-AMPK/AMPK (P = 0.001), compared with OVX2 noexercised group. MICT was superior to HIIT in reducing serum asprosin, TNF-a, TG, LDL (P = 0.001), insulin, fasting blood glucose, HOMA-IR, and QUEKI index (P = 0.001), but an increase in the liver AMPK, and p-AMPK (P = 0.001). Although after two months of de-training almost all indices returned to the pre exercise values (P < 0.05). The findings suggest that MICT effectively alleviates MetS induced by menopause, at least partly through the activation of liver signaling of P-AMPK and the reduction of asprosin and TNF-α. These results have practical implications for the development of exercise interventions targeting MetS in menopausal individuals, emphasizing the potential benefits of MICT in mitigating MetS-related complications.

Integrated Intensive Intervention: Academic and Behavioral Support in Tier 3

Students who require intensive individualized intervention often demonstrate needs in both academic and behavioral domains. However, practices around assessment and development of interventions are often siloed and separate, which can be a barrier to implementing intensive individualized support in an integrated manner to maximize efficiency. In this article, we provide a blueprint for educators to work collaboratively to complete an integrated assessment that can lead to developing a truly integrated individualized intervention. We also share a vignette demonstrating how team members might create a team to complete an integrated assessment and create a corresponding intervention plan.

Theoretical models applied to understand infection prevention and control practices of healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review

Background Effective infection prevention and control (IPC) practices among healthcare workers are crucial to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other infections in healthcare settings. Aim To synthesise evidence on behaviour change theories, models, or frameworks applied to understand healthcare workers’ IPC practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods PubMed, EBSCOhost interface, ProQuest interface, MEDLINE (Ovid), and grey literature were searched for primary studies published between December 2019 and May 2023. The Mixed Method Appraisal Tool evaluated the methodological quality of the studies. Two reviewers independently completed study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment. Results The search yielded 2110 studies, of which 19 were included. Seven behaviour change theories, models, and frameworks were identified, with the Health Belief Model and Theoretical Domains Framework being the most employed. Based on these theories, models, and frameworks, the included studies identified cognitive, environmental, and social factors influencing healthcare workers’ compliance with COVID-19 IPC practices. Discussion This review offers insights into the critical role of behavioural change theories, models, or frameworks in understanding the factors influencing healthcare workers’ compliance with IPC practices during COVID-19. It also highlights the potential of these theories in guiding the development of evidence-based interventions to improve healthcare workers’ compliance with IPC practices.

A framework to guide oral healthcare at long-term care facilities in the eThekwini district

Oral healthcare is an important aspect of the general healthcare of individuals residing in long-term care (LTC) facilities. However, it is often neglected in these settings and contributes to oral health disparities and oral diseases among residents. The World Health Organization promotes the reduction of health disparities and diseases through health promotion as an ethical obligation. The utilization of frameworks to promote oral health provides a structured approach to the design, implementation, and evaluation of oral health promotion programs. This study proposed a framework to guide the development, implementation, and review of an oral health promotion intervention, so as to ensure that a systematic and evidence-based approach is used for the delivery of oral health promotion activities. The framework comprised three stages: needs analysis, implementation and review of an oral health intervention, which was guided by the Precede-Proceed model and Intervention mapping. The empirical aspect involved a 4-phased mixed method exploratory study, based on action research and the plan-act-observe-reflect cycle, which illustrated how the framework was operationalized. The oral health intervention indicated positive outcomes with regard to knowledge and attitudes among caregivers. ConclusionThe framework incorporated the key components that influenced oral health provision at LTC facilities.

A Qualitative Exploration on Risk and Protective Factors of Substance Use Among Black Adolescent Girls

ABSTRACT Objective While Black adolescent girls use drugs at much lower rates than White and Hispanic girls, Black adolescent girls often have worse health outcomes due to drug use. This study seeks to highlight the voices of Black adolescent girls in order to understand their unique risk factors for substance use and misuse. Methods Utilizing the intersectionality and ecological systems theoretical frameworks, the research team conducted twelve focus groups among a sample of Black adolescent girls (N = 62) between the ages of 13–18 (M = 15.6 years SD = 1.50). Results Thematic analysis was conducted to analyze the participant narratives. Four main themes arose: 1) stereotypes of Black adolescent girls; 2) the role of the physical and social environment (feeling unsafe in neighborhoods where they reside); 3) using drugs as a coping mechanism; 4) input on prevention programming for girls with a sub-theme involving family as a protective factor. Discussion Study findings deepen our qualitative understanding of risk and protective factors for substance use among Black adolescent girls. These findings provide insight on girls’ lived experiences for researchers and intervention development to create and implement substance abuse prevention programs that are race- and gender-specific for Black adolescent girls.

Assessment of ethanol leaf extract from urtica dioica for in vitro Anti-Helminthic properties

Helminthic infections continue to be a significant public health concern worldwide, particularly in regions with poor sanitation and limited access to healthcare. With the increasing prevalence of drug resistance among helminths, there is a pressing need for alternative treatments derived from natural sources. Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes, including its purported anthelmintic properties. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro anti-helminthic activity of ethanol leaf extract of Urtica dioica against helminth parasites. Fresh leaves of Urtica dioica were collected, dried, and powdered. The ethanol leaf extract was prepared using standard extraction methods. Various concentrations of the extract were tested against helminth parasites using established in vitro assays. The efficacy of the extract was determined by assessing parameters such as paralysis and mortality of the parasites. Preliminary findings indicate that the ethanol leaf extract of urtica dioica possesses significant anti-helminthic activity against the tested parasites. The extract exhibited dose-dependent paralysis and mortality of the helminths, with higher concentrations demonstrating greater efficacy. These results suggest the potential of Urtica dioica as a natural source of anthelmintic agents. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the specific bioactive compounds responsible for the observed anti-helminthic activity and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Urtica dioica extract in vivo. Additionally, investigations into the underlying mechanisms of action and potential synergistic effects with conventional anthelmintic drugs may provide valuable insights for the development of novel therapeutic interventions against helminthic infections. The study results when compared to standard drug of fenbendazole, ethanolic extract of Urtica dioica possess a good significant anti-helmentic activity compared to standard drug of fenbendazole.

Illness perceptions in relation to self-management behaviour among elderly patients with COPD: A cross-sectional study.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the status of self-management behaviour and illness perceptions and to examine illness perceptions in relation to self-management behaviour in elderly patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A cross-sectional study was conducted, and 152 elderly COPD patients were recruited via the convenience sampling method. The COPD Self-Management Scale and the Revised Illness Perception Questionnaire for COPD patients were used to examine self-management behaviour and illness perceptions. Pearson correlation analysis, univariate analysis and hierarchical linear regression analysis were used to explore illness perceptions in relation to self-management behaviour. The mean overall score for self-management behaviour was 2.90 ± 0.39. Among the subscales of self-management behaviour, information management had the lowest score of 2.20 ± 0.76. Patients' demographic and clinical characteristics, including educational level, smoking status, type of primary caregiver, home oxygen therapy and COPD duration, were found to be significant determinants of self-management behaviour. After controlling for these variables, several illness perception subscales, including treatment control, personal control, coherence, timeline cyclical and identity, were significantly correlated with self-management behaviour. This study confirmed that elderly COPD patients' self-management behaviour was unsatisfactory and that illness perceptions were significant determinants of self-management behaviour. The findings may contribute to the development of self-management interventions for elderly COPD patients.

Protocol for the 'Supporting Young Cancer Survivors who Smoke' study (PRISM): Informing the development of a smoking cessation intervention for childhood, adolescent and young adult cancer survivors in England.

Childhood, adolescent and young adult (CAYA) cancer survivors are vulnerable to adverse late-effects. For CAYA cancer survivors, tobacco smoking is the most important preventable cause of ill-health and early death. Yet, effective strategies to support smoking cessation in this group are lacking. The PRISM study aims to undertake multi-method formative research to explore the need for, and if appropriate, inform the future development of an evidence-based and theory-informed tobacco smoking cessation intervention for CAYA cancer survivors. PRISM involves three phases of: 1) an environmental scan using multiple strategies to identify and examine a) smoking cessation interventions for CAYA cancer survivors that are published in the international literature and b) current smoking cessation services in England that may be available to, or tailorable to, CAYA cancer survivors; 2) a qualitative study involving semi-structured interviews with CAYA cancer survivors (aged 16-29 years and who are current or recent ex-smokers and/or current vapers) to explore their views and experiences of smoking, smoking cessation and vaping; and 3) stakeholder workshops with survivors, healthcare professionals and other stakeholders to consider the potential for a smoking cessation intervention for CAYA cancer survivors and what such an intervention would need to target and change. Findings will be disseminated to patient groups, healthcare professionals and researchers, through conference presentations, journal papers, plain English summaries and social media. PRISM will explore current delivery of, perceived need for, and barriers and facilitators to, smoking cessation advice and support to CAYA cancer survivors from the perspective of both survivors and healthcare professionals. A key strength of PRISM is the user involvement throughout the study and the additional exploration of survivors' views on vaping, a behaviour which often co-occurs with smoking. PRISM is the first step in the development of a person-centred, evidence- and theory-based smoking cessation intervention for CAYA cancer survivors who smoke, which if effective, will reduce morbidity and mortality in the CAYA cancer survivor population.

Embedding patient and public involvement into a doctoral study: developing a point-of-care HIV testing intervention for dental settings

IntroductionPatient and Public Involvement (PPI) can have a positive impact on research. PPI can make research more meaningful and appropriate as well as preventing research waste. For decades, patient advocates with HIV have played a key part in public health and research. This article presents the PPI activity undertaken during a doctoral study. The aim of this article is to demonstrate how PPI was embedded into a doctoral study that explored the feasibility of HIV testing in dental settings.MethodsPatients and the public were invited to be involved with the feasibility study through various organisations and charities. A comprehensive PPI activity strategy was devised, and appropriate funding was obtained. Patients and the public were predominantly consulted or collaboratively involved with several aspects of the study.FindingsPatients and the public positively contributed to the intervention development and the resources supporting its implementation. As a result, the study resources (i.e., questionnaire and information leaflets) were easier to read, and the intervention was more appropriate to the needs of patients. Furthermore, the training and focus groups conducted with dental patients and people with HIV benefitted from input of people with lived experience.ConclusionsPPI can be embedded within doctoral studies provided there is sufficient funding, flexibility, and supervisory support. However, PPI activity may be impacted by limited resource and a priori research protocol and funding agreements.

Development and Evaluation of Patient Safety Interventions: Perspectives of Operational Safety Leaders and Patient Safety Organizations.

The purpose of this study is to understand how patient safety professionals from healthcare facilities and patient safety organizations develop patient safety interventions and the resources used to support intervention development. Semistructured interviews were conducted with patient safety professionals at nine healthcare facilities and nine patient safety organizations. Interview data were qualitatively analyzed, and findings were organized by the following: patient safety solutions and interventions, use of external databases, and evaluation of patient safety solutions. Development of patient safety interventions across healthcare facilities and patient safety organizations was similar and included literature searches, internal brainstorming, and interviews. Nearly all patient safety professionals at healthcare facilities reported contacting colleagues at other healthcare facilities to learn about similar safety issues and potential interventions. Additionally, less than half of patient safety professionals at healthcare facilities and patient safety organizations interviewed report data to publicly available patient safety databases. Finally, most patient safety professionals at healthcare facilities and patient safety organizations stated that they evaluate the effectiveness of patient safety interventions; however, they mentioned methods that may be less rigorous including audits, self-reporting, and subjective judgment. Patient safety professionals often utilize similar methods and resources to develop and evaluate patient safety interventions; however, many of these efforts are not coordinated across healthcare organizations and could benefit from working collectively in a systematic fashion. Additionally, healthcare facilities and patient safety organizations face similar challenges and there are several opportunities for optimization on a national level that may improve patient safety.