Health Care Providers Research Articles

Evaluation of the Application of Wireless Digital Temperature Patches in Pediatric Care: A Pilot Study

The real-time monitoring and wireless transmission of patient temperature help healthcare providers and caregivers better observe and manage temperature changes in pediatric patients, which aids in clinical decision-making. However, the feasibility of using wireless digital temperature patches to continuously monitor the temperature of patients in clinical practice remains unclear. This pilot study was designed to evaluate the feasibility and benefits of using wireless digital temperature patches for continuous temperature monitoring in clinical pediatric care. Convenience sampling was used to select qualified pediatric patients, their families, and healthcare professionals at a medical center in southern Taiwan. Quanta Open Care AI (QOCA) disposable Bluetooth temperature patches were used to facilitate continuous temperature monitoring, and nurses continued to conduct routine tympanic temperature measurements. Data were collected on temperature changes during hospitalization. Upon patient discharge or the end of study participation, family members and healthcare professionals completed a satisfaction questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for the data analysis. Twenty-five pediatric patients and 12 healthcare providers were enrolled, and 408 valid tympanic temperature measurements were collected. The findings indicate the temperature patches as feasible (M = 4.7, SD = 0.6) and practical (M = 4.6, SD = 0.7), with high levels of satisfaction among caregivers. The nurses reported that using the temperature patches could reduce the frequency of temperature measurements and minimize the disturbances to sleep of both patients and their families. The intraclass correlation between temperature patch readings and tympanic temperature measurements was 0.63, revealing a statistically significant difference between the two measurement methods (t = -9.330, p < .001). Redness and itching during QOCA thermometer patch use were observed in one participating patient only. No other adverse events were found. Wireless digital temperature patches have the potential to serve as a valuable adjunct tool for temperature monitoring. They reduce the workload of nurses and enhance comfort in hospitalized pediatric patients and their families. Based on the findings of this study, QOCA thermometer patches may be continuously used in hospital settings. Future research should be conducted to further refine temperature patch features to better meet the needs of pediatric patients and improve their clinical applicability.

Oral versus long-acting injectable antipsychotics in schizophrenia spectrum disorders: A systematic review of patients' subjective experiences.

Oral versus long-acting injectable antipsychotics in schizophrenia spectrum disorders: A systematic review of patients' subjective experiences.

Epidemiology of adult asthma within the Hungarian population between 2009 and 2019 - A retrospective financial database analysis.

Asthma is the most common chronic obstructive respiratory disease and is a considerable burden on the patients, caregivers and healthcare providers. However, data on epidemiology, healthcare expenditures, inhalation medication usage and comorbidities are scarce on a country-wide level. A retrospective analysis was performed on the Hungarian National Health Insurance Fund's financial database. All patients who had filled at least one prescription for asthma maintenance therapy between 2009-'19 had been enrolled. Prevalence for each year was assessed, based on prescriptions filled for asthma annually. Incidence was assessed only for 2011-'19. Frequency of exacerbations and their costs were calculated. Through the study period 439,977 patients filled at least one prescription for asthma maintenance therapy. The number of patients having at least one prescription in 12months increased by 20.34% (from 132,292 to 159,225 patients). Between 2011-'19 an average of 20,742.1 new patients used asthma maintenance medications. Between 2009 and '19 an average of 4308 patients were hospitalized due to asthma, on an average 5129 times. Healthcare expenditure on hospitalizations and outpatient treatment of asthmatics increased by 28.05%. Through our study period a substantial increase in patient numbers and overall expenditure was seen. Number and frequency of exacerbations however decreased over the years.

Exploring treatment adherence and unmet needs of older breast cancer survival in Nigeria.

e13849 Background: Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in Nigeria. Older breast cancer patients often experience additional vulnerabilities due to comorbidities, reduced physical resilience, and potential socio-economic limitations that impact their access to chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapy. Yet the needs of older breast cancer patients have remained unknown in Nigeria. Hence, this study explored the relationship between unmet needs and treatment adherence among older adults with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy at a cancer facility in Nigeria. Methods: The participants were (n = 66) people aged 55 to 74 who were undergoing chemotherapy. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Results: The majority were married (53%), and more than half were unemployed (54.5%). Nearly half of the respondents (47%) had an income of less than ₦500,000 per year. In terms of cancer stages, 45.5% of participants were at stage 3, indicating a high prevalence of advanced cancer. The analysis showed that 74.2% of participants reported unmet needs. A significant relationship between unmet needs and treatment compliance was found (χ² = 4.580, p = 0.032). Participants with unmet needs were less likely to exhibit good compliance (77.6%) compared to those whose needs were met (100%). Conclusions: The study highlights the substantial unmet needs among older breast cancer patients, which significantly affect treatment adherence. To enhance treatment adherence and overall quality of life, it is recommended that healthcare providers and policymakers develop targeted interventions to address the specific unmet needs of older cancer patients. This includes improving access to comprehensive care, implementing ASCO practical geriatric assessment, providing socio-economic support, and implementing strategies to manage comorbidities effectively in Nigeria. Key Words: Brest Cancer, Chemotherapy, Older Adults, Unmet Needs, Health Care.

Factors associated with perceived medication safety during transitions of care in patients with cancer: A secondary data analysis of a cross-sectional survey.

Factors associated with perceived medication safety during transitions of care in patients with cancer: A secondary data analysis of a cross-sectional survey.

Herbal medicine for treating psoriasis: A systematic review.

Herbal medicine for treating psoriasis: A systematic review.

Provision of primary healthcare centers and women's healthcare-seeking behaviour: Evidence from Bangladesh.

Provision of primary healthcare centers and women's healthcare-seeking behaviour: Evidence from Bangladesh.

Identifying risk factors for postoperative complications following staging surgery for endometrial cancer.

Identifying risk factors for postoperative complications following staging surgery for endometrial cancer.

The prevalence of clinically relevant herb-drug interactions between herbal products and anti-cancer therapy in older adults with cancer - A cross-sectional study.

The prevalence of clinically relevant herb-drug interactions between herbal products and anti-cancer therapy in older adults with cancer - A cross-sectional study.

Patient experiences of diagnosis and treatment of invasive lobular carcinoma: A qualitative study from a prospective registry.

11111 Background: Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) is the second most common subtype of breast cancer and comprises 10-15% of all cases. ILC is characterized by a diffuse tumor growth pattern due to the absence of E-cadherin, resulting in diagnostic and management challenges including delays in diagnosis. The impact of these unique features on patients with ILC is unknown. To better understand the patient experience, we conducted a qualitative study using thematic analysis. Methods: 92 patients diagnosed with ILC and treated at a single institution were recruited to a prospective ILC registry from 2023-2025. We collected data primarily through structured patient interviews regarding screening and surveillance methods, locoregional treatment, systemic therapy, and recurrence. Participants were also asked two open-ended questions regarding how they were diagnosed and about their overall experience. The interviews were conducted through 30 to 60-minute phone calls and transcribed verbatim. Inductive coding was used to develop themes. Results: Unique themes were identified corresponding to stages in the diagnosis, treatment, and surveillance of ILC. Participants commonly reported a delay in their diagnosis due to mammographically occult disease and perceived poor sensitivity of breast imaging modalities. This was more pronounced among patients who reported a physical finding related to their breast cancer prior to diagnosis. Additional themes included experiencing a dismissal of symptoms by providers, underestimation of ILC tumor size on pre-operative imaging, and concerns over the impact of dense breasts on imaging sensitivity. At the treatment stage of their patient journey, participants reported that providers did not recognize ILC as a distinct tumor subtype and often recommended mastectomy as the initial surgical approach. After treatment of ILC, participants frequently recounted concerns about how they would identify a recurrence and a desire for improved surveillance methods. Reflecting on their journey, many shared that they wished they had been better informed about breast cancer symptoms and breast self-awareness before their diagnosis. Conclusions: This study highlights the unique challenges and concerns experienced by patients with ILC, emphasizing the need for more tailored imaging strategies, improved awareness among healthcare providers, and enhanced patient education. Selected themes in the patient journey. Patient Journey Stage Unique themes Diagnosis Mammographically occult disease Poor sensitivity of imaging modalities Dismissal of symptoms Underestimation of ILC tumor size Concerns over breast density on imaging sensitivity Treatment Providers not recognizing ILC as a distinct tumor-type Recommending mastectomy Surveillance Concerns about identifying recurrence Desire for improved surveillance methods

The Added Value of Physical Examination for Breast Cancer Recurrence Detection in Women: A Systematic Review.

The Added Value of Physical Examination for Breast Cancer Recurrence Detection in Women: A Systematic Review.

Effects of an app-assisted self-management intervention for urinary incontinence on self-efficacy and related outcomes in men with prostate cancer: A randomized controlled feasibility trial.

Effects of an app-assisted self-management intervention for urinary incontinence on self-efficacy and related outcomes in men with prostate cancer: A randomized controlled feasibility trial.

Tirzepatide and muscle composition changes in people with type 2 diabetes (SURPASS-3 MRI): a post-hoc analysis of a randomised, open-label, parallel-group, phase 3 trial.

Tirzepatide and muscle composition changes in people with type 2 diabetes (SURPASS-3 MRI): a post-hoc analysis of a randomised, open-label, parallel-group, phase 3 trial.

Healthcare Professionals' Perceptions About Medical Cannabis in Greece: A Qualitative Study.

Medical cannabis continues to generate interest as a potential therapeutic option, yet its acceptance in clinical practice faces challenges, including regulatory barriers, social stigma, and gaps in scientific evidence. This study explores the perspectives of Greek medical doctors and pharmacists on medical cannabis-key stakeholders in its clinical application-through semi-structured interviews with 12 participants from each profession. Medical doctors and pharmacists expressed a range of views on medical cannabis, with many acknowledging its potential while emphasizing the need for rigorous, disease-specific research. Medical doctors highlighted the lack of consistent clinical trials, concerns about drug interactions, and the fine line between medical use and misuse. Pharmacists echoed these concerns, citing regulatory inconsistencies and the need for standardized dosing. Both groups agreed that social stigma and misinformation hinder cannabis adoption, advocating for targeted education and transparent research communication. Participants indicated that regulatory barriers also pose challenges, with calls for harmonized policies and phased market entry approaches. Effective communication strategies, including digital outreach and clear messaging, were suggested to differentiate medical cannabis from recreational use and improve trust among healthcare providers and patients. Participants also highlighted the urgent need for collaboration between policymakers, researchers, and healthcare professionals to establish medical cannabis as a credible therapeutic option. The insights gained provide actionable recommendations to bridge existing gaps and emphasize the need for a responsible, evidence-based approach to the acceptance of medical cannabis as a therapeutic option.

An international survey on the practice patterns of intrapleural enzymatic therapy for complicated parapneumonic effusions and empyema.

An international survey on the practice patterns of intrapleural enzymatic therapy for complicated parapneumonic effusions and empyema.

Strengthening maternal health: gestational diabetes screening as a national priority

Dear Editor, Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a condition of growing concern in Pakistan, carrying significant implications for both maternal and neonatal health outcomes in Pakistan and globally. GDM is a known risk factor for gestational hypertension, which can progress to complications such as proteinuria, dyslipidaemia, thrombocytopenia, and pulmonary oedema, ultimately resulting in preeclampsia.1 According to the International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups (IADPSG) criteria, the global prevalence of GDM is 14.7.2 A recent study has reported that the overall prevalence of GDM in Pakistan is estimated to be around 16.7%, with many remaining undiagnosed owing to lack of standardized screening protocols.3 This gap in early detection is highly alarming and requires urgent attention, since timely intervention could substantially reduce the risk of the perinatal complications.4 Therefore, it is essential that both healthcare providers and policymakers prioritise screening for gestational diabetes mellitus as a vital component in the national health strategy, which should be implemented without delay. A study that was conducted with 210 doctors reported in major cities across Pakistan that there were no uniform criteria used for diagnosis. 61.4% reported using the WHO criteria for diagnosis, 12.4% used the American Diabetes Association criteria, 9% of respondents used the IADPSG criteria, and 17.1% of respondents were unsure of the screening criteria they were using.5 This study highlights the urgent need for a standardized nationwide protocol for GDM screening – which should be integrated into routine antenatal care, as a matter of priority particularly primary healthcare centers. Healthcare providers receive training in the diagnosis and management of GDM, alongside targeted awareness campaigns for women regarding the risks associated with uncontrolled blood glucose levels during pregnancy. These awareness campaigns could help be highly beneficial for women of childbearing age to promote early screening and encourage healthy practices during pregnancy. As the incidence of diabetes in the general population continues to rise in Pakistan, so too does the urgency for routine GDM screening. As Pakistan faces an incredibly high disease burden for diabetes - this burden is also further reflected in its pregnant population. A standardized screening approach, offering screening to all pregnant women, regardless of risk factors -would ensure that no case of GDM goes undetected. Implementation and awareness measures pertaining to gestational diabetes mellitus are the need of the hour for improved maternal and neonatal health outcomes across Pakistan.

Experiences and needs of patients with sarcoma: a qualitative meta-synthesis.

Experiences and needs of patients with sarcoma: a qualitative meta-synthesis.

Tuberculosis in pregnancy: a growing concern

Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the most prevalent diseases globally, with an estimated 10.6 million new cases reported in 2022.1 The causative agent is the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and its classic symptoms include cough, fever, dyspnoea, chills, stabbing chest pain, and weight loss.2 Although TB is generally considered a curable disease, it can be fatal if left untreated, particularly if contracted during pregnancy. Tuberculosis can affect all stages of female reproduction.3 Therefore, screening and diagnosis are crucial in reducing morbidity and mortality. While pregnancy does not affect disease progression or susceptibility, the outcomes of pregnancy can be severely impacted by TB.4 A meta-analysis conducted by S Sobhy in 2017 demonstrated that active TB in pregnant women significantly increases the risk of maternal morbidity, antenatal admission, miscarriage, anaemia, perinatal death, birth asphyxia, and caesarean delivery.5 Another US-based study led by Erika M. Dennis et al. investigated the effects of active TB on pregnant and non-pregnant women. The study, which comprised 4058 cases, found that active TB in pregnancy resulted in an 80% higher risk of pregnancy complications in pregnant women compared to non-pregnant women. Moreover, the rate of in-hospital deaths among TB-infected pregnant individuals was 37 times higher than that of non-infected pregnant women. These complications included severe eclampsia, severe pre-eclampsia, and postpartum haemorrhage.6 These studies highlight a pressing concern and emphasize the need for measures to mitigate the effects of TB on pregnancy. As TB predominantly affects disadvantaged populations, it is prevalent in underdeveloped and developing countries, such as Pakistan. Consequently, physicians must be aware of how TB can impact diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, and pregnancy outcomes. Furthermore, physicians should educate the general population about TB during pregnancy and prioritize their efforts towards pregnant women who are highly susceptible, such as those residing in impoverished areas or with infected individuals. A more effective approach would involve collaboration between obstetricians, gynaecologists, healthcare providers, and infectious disease specialists. Pregnant women should undergo TB screening if they exhibit symptoms or live in close proximity to TB-infected individuals. These measures will contribute to eradicating the spread of TB and its adverse effects, as well as preventing the transmission of multidrug-resistant TB.

'As Important as Medication'. A Qualitative Investigation of the Beliefs, Barriers and Facilitators of Physical Activity for Women With Metastatic Breast Cancer.

Women with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) experience a range of physical and psychological challenges. Physical activity is safe and supports quality of life in individuals with MBC. However, most women with MBC are not meeting physical activity recommendations. To inform the development of an accessible and effective physical activity intervention, we investigated the beliefs, barriers and facilitators of physical activity of women with MBC. We conducted semi-structured telephone interviews with UK women living with MBC. Participants were asked open-ended questions about physical activity levels, beliefs, barriers, facilitators, support and preferences. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the transcripts and themes were mapped onto the Theoretical Domains Framework. 23 women with MBC (mean age=53.7years; White British=69.7%) were interviewed between May 2022 and October 2024. Average time since diagnosis was 6years, 1month. Most had bone metastases (68.8%). Our analysis generated five themes. Participants generally believed physical activity was important (1) but were limited by physical symptoms (2) and psychological barriers (3). Most women noted a significant lack of physical activity support from healthcare providers (4). They discussed how physical activity could be more accessible for their diverse needs (5), including increasing provision of tailored support. Improvements in physical activity support for women with MBC are needed. Our findings provide several implications for future interventions. This includes implementing physical activity recommendations, improving knowledge about risks and benefits, and incorporating psycho-social and tailored support which consider the unique needs of the MBC population.

Insights into Disaster Management among Emergency Paramedical Staffs: A Cross-sectional Study at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Tamil Nadu, India

Introduction: Disasters can be natural (e.g., cyclones and earthquakes) or man-made (e.g., chemical spills). Unpredictable disasters and multifaceted damage necessitate that healthcare providers be prepared to manage victims with varying skills and care to mitigate the impact of these disasters. Aim: To assess various aspects pertaining to disaster preparedness and management among paramedical staff in the emergency department of a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India. Seventy paramedical staff members in the emergency department were included in the study and given a pretested semistructured questionnaire. The collected data was entered into Excel, and the associations between demographic factors and insights were measured using the Chi-square test in Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 27.0. Results: In this study, 44 (62.9%) participants were female. This study showed that 91.4% of the staff had adequate knowledge, while 82.9% demonstrated adequate practice. In the knowledge domain, there were no significant differences across demographic variables. However, in the practice domain, there was a significant difference based on gender (p-value&lt;0.05). A significant association was found between knowledge and practice adequacy (χ2 =26.91, p-value&lt;0.001), indicating that staff members with adequate knowledge are more likely to practice adequately. Conclusion: This study concluded that the levels of knowledge and practice regarding disaster preparedness are adequate among the majority of staff. Management should organise medical education and training programs frequently to achieve standardised levels of preparedness.