Improve Patient Comfort Research Articles

Early versus delayed dressing removal after primary closure of clean and clean contaminated wounds: an observational study

Background: Traditionally, surgical dressings have remained untouched for several days after surgery. However, recent research is exploring the potential benefits of removing dressings sooner. Early removal may offer advantages like quicker detection of infection and improved patient comfort, but it's crucial to determine if it affects healing rates or patient satisfaction compared to the traditional delayed approach. Methods: A year-long cohort study investigated the efficacy of early (within 48 hours) versus delayed dressing removal 150 post-surgical patients who were divided into two respective groups. Data analysis was performed using statistical software. Results: Early and delayed dressing removal showed no significant difference in wound complications (p-values > 0.05 for both Chi-square and t-tests). However, patient satisfaction was lower in the early removal group (97 dissatisfied vs 143 satisfied in delayed removal). While the study found no objective benefit to delayed removal, it suggests patients were less satisfied with early removal. Conclusions: Although there were no statistically significant results between the early and delayed removal of dressing, early removal of dressing had the advantage of cost effectiveness, early detection of wound infection and decreased duration of hospital stay in patients.

Nursing Care for the Discomfort Disorder in 'S' Diagnosed with Dyspepsia in the Sanur Room, Sumber Kasih Hospital, Cirebon City

Dyspepsia is a non-communicable disease that is common around the world, including Indonesia. This disease is often accompanied by discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen which can interfere with the patient's quality of life. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of nursing care in patients with dyspepsia diagnosis, especially in meeting the need for a sense of security and comfort through relaxation techniques. This study uses a qualitative method with a prospective case study approach. Data collection techniques include observation, interviews, and documentation studies, which are then comprehensively analyzed. The results showed that after 2x24 hours of nursing treatment with relaxation therapy in patient "S" diagnosed with dyspepsia, a decrease in the pain scale was found from 4 to 2. This shows that relaxation techniques are effective in reducing pain and improving patient comfort. The study implies that the application of relaxation techniques can be one of the effective non-pharmacological interventions in pain management in dyspepsia patients. These findings can be used as a reference in nursing practice to improve the quality of care for patients with similar conditions.

Impact of Preoperative Gum Chewing on Postoperative Anti-Emetic Use in Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Surgery for Benign Ovarian Masses: A Prospective, Single-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background and Objectives: Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a common issue for females undergoing gynecological surgeries, including those assisted by robotic systems. Despite available prophylactic measures, the incidence of PONV remains high, negatively impacting recovery and increasing healthcare costs. This study evaluates whether preoperative gum chewing reduces the need for anti-emetic drugs in females undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery for benign ovarian mass. Materials and Methods: This prospective, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial enrolled 92 adult females scheduled for robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery to treat benign ovarian mass. Following exclusions, the remaining participants were randomly assigned to either a gum-chewing group or a no-gum-chewing group. The gum-chewing group chewed sugar-free gum for 15 min in the holding area before surgery. The primary outcome measured was the need for anti-emetics to control PONV during the first hour in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). Secondary outcomes included the number of anti-emetic requests. No preemptive anti-emetics were administered during surgery. Results: Out of the initial 92 patients, 88 were included in the final analysis, with 44 in each group. The incidence of PONV requiring anti-emetics in the PACU was significantly lower in the gum-chewing group (79.5%) compared to the no-gum-chewing group (95.5%). Additionally, the number of anti-emetic requests was higher in the no-gum-chewing group. No postoperative complications such as tooth or jaw pain/injury or gastric content regurgitation were reported. Conclusions: Preoperative gum chewing for 15 min immediately before surgery significantly reduced the incidence of PONV in females undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery for benign ovarian mass. This simple, non-pharmacological intervention improved patient comfort and reduced the need for anti-emetic medications without any adverse effects. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and to develop guidelines for incorporating preoperative gum chewing into clinical practice.

Spinal anesthesia in ambulatory patients.

To assess current practice in the use of spinal anesthesia in major ambulatory surgery, highlighting its advantages over general anesthesia and identifying potential areas for improvement to facilitate a transition to a sustainable healthcare system. Spinal anesthesia might be preferred in selected populations when compared to general anesthesia providing the highest standards of healthcare quality.The use of local anesthetics with short half-life has proven to be efficient in achieving high anesthesia success rates. Spinal anesthesia does not increase perioperative complications; instead, it has shown a reduction in postoperative nausea and vomiting, an improvement in patient comfort, and a favorable economic impact when compared to general anesthesia. Spinal anesthesia is an appropriate method for anesthesia in ambulatory patients, offering advantages over general anesthesia in selected populations.The use of spinal anesthesia is expanding to meet surgical needs. Therefore, it is crucial to plan ahead and anticipate organizational failures in the ambulatory setting to maintain safety and efficiency during outpatient procedures and surgeries.

Effect of age-related extended high frequency hearing loss on the subjective impressions of dental drill noise

Fear and anxiety among patients are sometimes evoked in dental clinics due to the sound of dental drills. This study aimed to explore the impact of age-related hearing loss in the extended high frequency (EHF) range above 8 kHz on individuals' subjective discomfort towards dental drill noise. After measuring pure-tone audiometric thresholds at both conventional and extended high frequencies, we used a psychoacoustic approach to evaluate subjective impressions of four dental drill sound stimuli, which featured varying frequency components, in 62 participants (aged 12–67 years). We found a significant decrease in hearing sensitivity within the EHF range as age increased, with notable differences in hearing thresholds at 14 kHz between teenage and older adults exceeding 65 dB. Furthermore, significant differences were observed between younger and older (above 40 years) participants in the subjective impressions of dental drill noise, emphasizing age as a critical factor in the perception of high frequency components. Consequently, age may influence the unpleasantness of dental drilling noise. Compared to older individuals, young participants may exhibit increased fear of dental procedures owing to physiological factors. These results underscore the need for age-appropriate noise control strategies in dental clinics to mitigate anxiety and improve patient comfort.

Exploration of the Optimal Dosage of Remimazolam in Painless Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and Analysis of Its Impact on Patient Comfort

Painless gastrointestinal endoscopy, as an important diagnostic technique in modern medicine, is crucial for patient comfort and examination quality. Remimazolam, as a novel sedative drug, has demonstrated promising applications in painless gastrointestinal endoscopy. This article aims to explore the optimal dosage of remimazolam in painless gastrointestinal endoscopy and analyze its impact on patient comfort..By comparing indicators such as sedation depth, recovery time, and incidence of adverse reactions under different dosages, we found that a certain dosage range can maximize patient comfort while ensuring the effectiveness of the examination.Finally, we conducted a thorough analysis of remimazolam within this dosage range, exploring its mechanism of improving patient comfort. The results showed that this dosage range of remimazolam can effectively alleviate patients' anxiety and fear, reduce discomfort during the examination, and thereby improve their overall satisfaction.

Understanding the Perspectives of Hail City Population on the Confidentiality and Privacy of Digital Health and Medical Information.

Background In the era of rapid digital advancement, the confidentiality and privacy of digital health and medical data have become paramount concerns. This study investigates the perspectives of individuals residing in Hail City regarding these critical issues, with a particular emphasis on the influence of demographic factors such as age, gender, and computer proficiency on individuals' discomfort with health professionals using computers and their trust in researchers.Gaining a deeper understanding of these factors is vital for the development of targeted interventions aimed at enhancing patient comfort and trust in digital health/medical technologies. Methodology This study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design, involving a survey of 775 individuals aged 18 and above in Hail City. The questionnaire was designed to gather information on participants' demographic characteristics, computer proficiency, experiences with digital health and medical information, and perceptions of health information safety and privacy. To examine the associations and predictive relationships between variables, chi-square tests, correlation analyses, and logistic regression were performed. Results Significant associations were found between gender and discomfort with health professionals using computers (chi-square = 60.29, p < 0.0001), and between age and trust in researchers regarding the privacy of medical information (chi-square = 50.14, p < 0.0001). Positive correlations were observed between computer proficiency and perception of health information safety (r = 0.12, p = 0.0002), while a negative correlation was found between computer ownership and avoidance of medical tests due to privacy concerns (r = -0.08, p = 0.03). Logistic regression analysis identified age, gender, and computer proficiency as significant predictors of discomfort with health professionals using computers. The findings highlight the crucial role that demographic factors play in shaping attitudes toward the privacy and security of digital health and medical information. Conclusions The findings of this study highlight the crucial role that demographic factors play in shaping attitudes toward the privacy and security of digital health and medical information. Gender and age were found to significantly influence individuals' levels of discomfort and trust, while computer proficiency was shown to enhance perceptions of safety. Based on these findings, the researchers recommend implementing targeted interventions, such as gender-sensitive training programs and initiatives, to enhance digital literacy and improve patient comfort and trust in digital health technologies.

Exploring Head-Mounted Virtual Visual Fields for Glaucoma: How do They Stack Up Against Humphrey Tests?

Abstract The integration of virtual reality (VR) technology into visual field (VF) testing has introduced innovative head-mounted perimetry devices, which offer numerous advantages over traditional methods. This review examines the features, accuracy, and reliability of commercially available head-mounted VR perimeters and compares them with the gold standard, the Humphrey Visual Field Analyzer (HFA). While traditional devices like the HFA and Goldmann Perimeter have been reliable for glaucoma management, they are limited by fixed testing environments, long testing durations, and high costs. VR-based perimetry addresses these limitations by providing portable, cost-effective, and engaging testing environments that can be conducted in various settings, including patients’ homes. Head-mounted displays (HMDs) equipped with high-resolution screens, motion sensors, and eye-tracking technology create an immersive testing experience that minimizes distractions and external light interference, potentially enhancing test accuracy. These devices also offer customizable testing protocols, improving patient comfort and compliance, especially among children and elderly patients. However, concerns remain about the reproducibility and accuracy of VR perimetry compared to established standards. Variability among VR platforms and the lack of large normative databases for visual fields pose challenges to their widespread adoption. This review highlights the need for further validation studies and the development of standardized testing protocols to ensure the reliability and accuracy of VR perimetry. Despite these challenges, the flexibility, reduced testing times, and potential for telemedicine applications make VR head-mounted perimetry a promising tool for improving glaucoma management and expanding access to VF testing in diverse clinical environments.

Accelerated cardiac cine magnetic resonance imaging using deep low-rank plus sparse network: validation in patients.

Accurate and reproducible assessment of left ventricular (LV) volumes is important in managing various cardiac conditions. However, patients are required to hold their breath multiple times during data acquisition, which may result in discomfort and restrict cardiac motion, potentially compromising the accuracy of the detected results. Accelerated imaging techniques can help reduce the number of breath holds needed, potentially improving patient comfort and the reliability of the LV assessment. This study aimed to prospectively evaluate the feasibility and accuracy of LV assessment with a model-based low-rank plus sparse network (L+S-Net) for accelerated magnetic resonance (MR) cine imaging. Fourty-one patients with different cardiac conditions were recruited in this study. Both accelerated MR cine imaging with L+S-Net and traditional electrocardiogram (ECG)-gated segmented cine were performed for each patient. Subjective image quality (IQ) score and quantitative LV volume function parameters were measured and compared between L+S-Net and traditional standards. The IQ score and LV volume measurements of cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) images reconstructed by L+S-Net and standard cine were compared by paired t-test. The acquisition time of the two methods was also calculated. In a quantitative analysis, L+S-Net and standard cine yielded similar measurements for all parameters of LV function (ejection fraction: 35±22 for standard vs. 33±23 for L+S-Net), although L+S-Net had slightly lower IQ scores than standard cine CMR (4.2±0.5 for L+S-Net vs. 4.8±0.4 for standard cine; P<0.001). The mean acquisition time of L+S-Net and standard cine was 0.83±0.08 vs. 6.35±0.78 s per slice (P<0.001). Assessment of LV function with L+S-Net at 3.0 T yields comparable results to the reference standard, albeit with a reduced acquisition time. This feature enhances the clinical applicability of the L+S-Net approach, helping alleviate patient discomfort and motion artifacts that may arise due to prolonged acquisition time.

Aligning Archwires in Orthodontics: Exploring the Past, Present, and Future - A Comprehensive Narrative Review

Orthodontic wires facilitate the required dental adjustments in the context of orthodontic therapy. The archwire has played a crucial role in orthodontic treatment, and the increasing emphasis on aesthetic preferences from patients, as well as the development of composite and ceramic brackets, have prompted investigations into aesthetic archwires that complement these brackets. Orthodontic wires are produced using a diverse range of materials. The utilisation of all available wire types can improve patient comfort, decrease chairside time, and shorten the overall duration of treatment. The individual clinician must possess comprehensive knowledge and comprehension of the various requirements and alternatives throughout the therapeutic process. This article provides an overview of the history of materials utilised in producing orthodontic aligning archwires, the latest advancements in these materials currently accessible in the market, and the future of archwire production.

The effect of postoperative pain on comfort in patients undergoing abdominal surgery

Background/Aim: Postoperative pain management aims to reduce pain intensity and improve patient comfort. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of postoperative pain on the well-being of patients undergoing abdominal surgery. Methods: This research was designed as a prospective, descriptive study. The study was conducted on 94 patients who underwent abdominal surgery in general surgery. Patients over 18 years of age, who volunteered to participate in the study and who did not need intensive care were included in the research. Postoperative pain and comfort levels of the patients were analyzed. Descriptive information from the patients was used in the first part of the study and the Perianesthesia Comfort Questionnaire (PCQ) was used in the second part. The visual pain scale (VAS) was used to assess pain. Results: The mean age of the patients was 54.7 (15.7) years; 54.3% of the patients were male; 76.6% were smokers; and the mean body mass index was 29.3 (6.3). Half of the patients underwent open and half underwent laparoscopic surgery, with 90.4% receiving general anesthesia. Patients were hospitalized an average of 3.5 (3.3) days after surgery. Patient comfort was at a good level, according to the PCQ. Whether they received local or general anesthesia did not affect their PCQ scores; however, pain was less in patients who received local anesthesia. Fasting time before surgery did not affect mean PCQ scores, but patients who fasted longer before surgery reported less pain. There were no differences in patients' mean scores on the PCQ scale and pain scores. The correlation between the mean PCQ and pain scales showed no significant relationship (r=-0.073, P=0.485). Conclusion: The absence of a significant correlation between the mean PCQ scale and the pain scale indicates no meaningful association between these variables.

Wireless, customizable coaxially shielded coils for magnetic resonance imaging.

Anatomy-specific radio frequency receive coil arrays routinely adopted in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for signal acquisition are commonly burdened by their bulky, fixed, and rigid configurations, which may impose patient discomfort, bothersome positioning, and suboptimal sensitivity in certain situations. Herein, leveraging coaxial cables' inherent flexibility and electric field confining property, we present wireless, ultralightweight, coaxially shielded, passive detuning MRI coils achieving a signal-to-noise ratio comparable to or surpassing that of commercially available cutting-edge receive coil arrays with the potential for improved patient comfort, ease of implementation, and substantially reduced costs. The proposed coils demonstrate versatility by functioning both independently in form-fitting configurations, closely adapting to relatively small anatomical sites, and collectively by inductively coupling together as metamaterials, allowing for extension of the field of view of their coverage to encompass larger anatomical regions without compromising coil sensitivity. The wireless, coaxially shielded MRI coils reported herein pave the way toward next-generation MRI coils.

Advancements in Dental Imaging: A Technological Renaissance in Diagnosis and Treatment Planning

Dental imaging technology has undergone significant advancements in recent years, offering dentists unprecedented tools for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the latest innovations in dental imaging and their clinical applications. Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) has revolutionized imaging by providing high-resolution 3D images with minimal radiation exposure. Its versatility in applications, from implant planning to TMJ analysis, makes it an indispensable tool in modern dentistry. Studies have shown its effectiveness in detecting root fractures and periapical lesions, enhancing diagnostic precision. Digital Radiography has replaced traditional film-based systems, offering benefits like reduced radiation doses and faster image acquisition. Its superior diagnostic capabilities in detecting caries and periodontal conditions enable early intervention and preventive strategies, improving patient outcomes. Intraoral Scanners have transformed impression-taking, eliminating the need for messy materials and improving patient comfort. Their accuracy in capturing detailed intraoral structures ensures precise fit and aesthetics in crown and bridge restorations, enhancing overall treatment quality. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) has gained attention for its non-invasive, high-resolution imaging of dental tissues. Its utility in detecting early caries lesions, evaluating periodontal tissues, and assessing adhesive interfaces in restorations supports conservative treatment approaches and long-term restoration success. Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms are being integrated into dental imaging, enhancing diagnostic capabilities and streamlining workflow. AI’s role in image analysis, risk assessment, and treatment planning opens avenues for personalized dentistry and predictive outcomes, ultimately improving patient care. In conclusion, the rapid advancements in dental imaging technologies have transformed dental diagnostics and treatment planning. Integrating these innovations into clinical practice not only improves diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes but also enhances patient experience and satisfaction. Continued research and technological advancements promise further enhancements in dental imaging capabilities, paving the way for optimized patient care in the future.

Evaluation of deep-learning TSE images in clinical musculoskeletal imaging.

In this study, we compared the fat-saturated (FS) and non-FS turbo spin echo (TSE) magnetic resonance imaging knee sequences reconstructed conventionally (conventional-TSE) against a deep learning-based reconstruction of accelerated TSE (DL-TSE) scans. A total of 232 conventional-TSE and DL-TSE image pairs were acquired for comparison. For each consenting patient, one of the clinically acquired conventional-TSE proton density-weighted sequences in the sagittal or coronal planes (FS and non-FS), or in the axial plane (non-FS), was repeated using a research DL-TSE sequence. The DL-TSE reconstruction resulted in an image resolution that increased by at least 45% and scan times that were up to 52% faster compared to the conventional TSE. All images were acquired on a MAGNETOM Vida 3T scanner (Siemens Healthineers AG, Erlangen, Germany). The reporting radiologists, blinded to the acquisition time, were requested to qualitatively compare the DL-TSE against the conventional-TSE reconstructions. Despite having a faster acquisition time, the DL-TSE was rated to depict smaller structures better for 139/232 (60%) cases, equivalent for 72/232 (31%) cases and worse for 21/232 (9%) cases compared to the conventional-TSE. Overall, the radiologists preferred the DL-TSE reconstruction in 124/232 (53%) cases and stated no preference, implying equivalence, for 65/232 (28%) cases. DL-TSE reconstructions enabled faster acquisition times while enhancing spatial resolution and preserving the image contrast. From these results, the DL-TSE provided added or comparable clinical value and utility in less time. DL-TSE offers the opportunity to further reduce the overall examination time and improve patient comfort with no loss in diagnostic accuracy.

Ultrasound-Guided Off-Plan Lumbar Seated Erector Spinae Plane Blocks : Are There Advantages?

The erector spinae plane block (ESPB) has been widely used as a treatment strategy for a variety of acute and chronic painful conditions. ESPBs are typically performed under ultrasound guidance [USG] in an in-plane long axis approach, targeting the tip of the lumbar transverse process while the patient lies prone. Off-Plane Seated Injection Technique-ESPB [OPSIT-E] represents a useful alternative in situations where a standard prone spine injection would be technically challenged by circumstances which may include morbid obesity, orthopnoea, recent upper limbs surgeries, chest pain from recent pacemaker implant, and in a subjects were in-plane approaches may be complicated by skin lesions. A seated forward flexed off-plane injection position, may also flatten the lumbar lordosis, shift adipose tissue more anteriorly, lessening skin to target distance and facilitating bony landmark identification, in high BMI and hyperlordotic subjects. The relatively larger curved transverse arc radius of the curvilinear probe [GE G1-5] in comparison to its transverse arc, also appears to offer improved central field of skin-transducer contact, earlier needle visualization, improved acute angle trajectory visualization of deep structures, which may be due to less crepuscular beam dispersion in comparison to transverse probe orientation. Even with a linear probe, the orthogonal technique facilitates a more perpendicular vector, lessening needle transit to target distance, which may in turn decrease procedure time, and improve patient comfort. The OPSITE, may also be easier to teach, learn, and master, as other studies have generally reported a higher rate of off-lane injection success among novice vascular interventionists.

Anesthesiologist-directed care for elective gastrointestinal endoscopy: results of an Italian multicentric prospective observational study.

Sedation, ranging from minimal, moderate and deep sedation to general anesthesia, improves patient comfort and procedure quality in gastrointestinal endoscopy (GIE). There are currently no comprehensive recommendations on sedation practice in diagnostic and therapeutic GIE. We aimed to investigate real-life sedation practice in elective GIE. We performed a multicentric observational study across 14 Endoscopy Units in Italy. We recorded consecutive data on all diagnostic procedures performed with Anesthesiologist-directed care (ADC) and all therapeutic procedures performed with ADC or non-Anesthesiologist sedation (NAS) over a three-month period. Dedicated ADC is available five days/week in 28.6% (4/14), four days/week in 21.5% (3/14), three days/week in 35.7% (5/14), two days/week in 7.1% (1/14) and one day/week in 7.1% (1/14) of participating Centers. ADC use for elective diagnostic GIE varied from 18.2% to 75.1% of the total number of procedures performed with ADC among different Centers. ADC use for elective therapeutic GIE varied from 10.8% to 98.9% of the total number of elective therapeutic procedures performed among different Centers. Our study highlights the lack of standardization and consequent great variability in sedation practice for elective GIE, with ADC being potentially overused for diagnostic procedures and underused for complex therapeutic procedures. A collaborative effort involving Endoscopists, Anesthesiologist and Institutions is needed to optimize sedation practice in GIE.

Assessing placental membrane treatment efficiency in diabetic foot ulcers: Processing for retention versus lamination.

Diabetic foot ulcers are a severe complication in diabetic patients, significantly impact healthcare systems and patient quality of life, often leading to hospitalization and amputation. Traditional Standard of Care (SOC) treatments are inadequate for many patients, necessitating advanced wound care products (AWCPs) like human placental membranes. This study conducts a retrospective analysis to compare the effectiveness of two human placental membrane products, retention-processed amnion chorion (RE-AC) and lamination-processed amnion chorion (L-AC) in managing chronic diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). The study collected retrospective observational data from electronic health records (EHRs) of patients treated for DFU at three outpatient wound care centers. Patients were categorized into two cohorts based on the treatment received. Key metrics included wound size progression and the number of product applications. The analysis employed Bayesian estimation, utilizing an analysis of covariance model with a Hurdle Gamma likelihood. We found that RE-AC achieved a marginally higher expected Percent Area Reduction (xPAR) in DFUs compared to L-AC at 12 weeks (67.3% vs. 52.6%). RE-AC also required fewer applications, suggesting greater efficiency in general wound closure. Probability of full wound closure was similar in both groups (0.738 vs 0.740 in RE-AC and L-AC, respectively). The findings suggest that while L-AC might be slightly more effective in complete ulcer healing, RE-AC offers overall better treatment efficiency, especially in reducing the frequency of applications. This efficiency can lead to improved patient comfort, reduced treatment costs, and optimized resource utilization in healthcare settings.

Effects of Three Different Heating Devices on Patients Undergoing Surgery: A Network Meta-Analysis

PurposePerioperative hypothermia is a common anesthesia-related complication that can result in negative outcomes. Intraoperative active heating can affect patients. Therefore this study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of three common heating devices for controlling hypothermia, improving thermal comfort, and reducing anesthesia recovery time. DesignSystematic review and meta-analysis MethodsSeven electronic literature databases were searched from the inception date of the databases to March 18, 2022. RevMan 5.4 and Stata 15.1 were used to perform meta-analyses on the obtained data, and the Cochrane Evaluation Manual was used for quality risk assessment of the included studies. ResultsA total of 18 studies involving 1511 patients undergoing surgery using heating devices were included. In this meta-analysis, a ranking method known as the Surface Under the Cumulative Ranking Curve (SUCRA) was utilized. SUCRA provides a numerical measure of the effectiveness of treatments, with higher values indicating superior efficacy. The findings from this meta-analysis demonstrated that the concurrent use of three heating devices led to an elevation in core body temperatures (SUCRA = 69.2%) and enhanced delayed recovery (SUCRA = 88.6%), as compared to the application of a single device. Furthermore, for thermal comfort, the employment of heating blankets proved to be the most effective (SUCRA = 87.8%). ConclusionThis study showed the core body temperatures and improved delayed recovery were greater when three heating devices compared to use one of them alone, and the use of heating blankets was the most effective option for improving the thermal comfort of patients. Thus, clinicians should opt for appropriate heating equipment according to the type of surgery and the characteristics and needs of patients. The choice of appropriate heating equipment will ensure surgical safety, improve patient comfort, and reduce surgical risks.

Perioperative use of high flow nasal cannula

High flow nasal cannula (HFNC) is an innovative oxygen therapy system that has gained increasing popularity in recent decades, particularly in the field of critical care medicine. The device provides a more constant and higher FiO2, generates low levels of PEEP, reduces dead space ventilation, and conditions the inspired gas, which collectively results in a reduction in work of breathing (WOB) and improved patient comfort. While the application of HFNC in critically ill patients is well-established and supported by a large body of evidence, studies of HFNC during the perioperative period are limited. However, the working mechanisms of HFNC align with physiological demands across various anesthetic processes. Consequently, this system could potentially serve as an alternative oxygen delivery system for surgical patients during perioperative care. In this article, we summarize the working principles and the effects provided by HFNC, review its implementation during the perioperative period, and discuss the current evidence regarding its use.

The experiences of patients not conveyed after evaluation by emergency medical services in Southwest Finland – A qualitative survey study

BackgroundThe amount of non-critical Emergency Medical Services missions has been increasing. After examination and treatment, paramedics can decide, based on guidelines, not to convey the patient to a healthcare facility. This study aimed to investigate patients’ experiences in non-conveyance situations in Southwest Finland. Our research questions were: 1) Which patient concerns were not addressed? 2) What key actions improved patient comfort? and 3) What possible enhancements could make the patient experience more positive? MethodsThis was a qualitative survey study. In March 2023, all the patients who met the inclusion criteria (N = 1017) received a survey via mail. The data from three open-ended questions were analyzed using inductive content analysis. ResultsThe response rate was 22.2 % (n = 226). The unaddressed patient concerns were related to inadequate immediate care and guidance and non-clinical factors causing concern. Key actions for improved patient comfort were related to immediate treatment and guidance, as well as non-clinical factors that impact the patient experience. More thorough treatment processes and more attentive encounters would have enhanced the patient experience. ConclusionsPredominantly, patients reported having received excellent services. Utilizing paramedics’ soft skills and keeping the patient as the central focus is key to improving the non-conveyance process and experience.