Increased Patient Satisfaction Research Articles

Restoring Sensation through Abdominal Flap Neurotization in Breast Reconstruction.

Breast sensation plays a significant role in the safety and quality of life of women who undergo mastectomy and reconstruction. In 1992, Slezak et al. introduced the concept of abdominal flap neurotization to improve sensation of the reconstructed breast. Over the next 30 years, numerous studies iterated on Slezak's technique, suggesting technical modifications and new methodologies for assessing sensory recovery. Despite evidence that reinnervation increases patient satisfaction following autologous breast reconstruction, abdominal flap neurotization remains a rarely performed procedure. In this article, we review the evolution of flap neurotization in breast reconstruction and describe our approach to facilitating sensory recovery of the breast while limiting donor site morbidity.

Enhancing Patient Revisit Intention and Positive Word of Mouth: An Empirical Study of Medical Tourism

The growth of medical tourism industry in various countries has fostered global competition. Hospitals need to improve healthcare quality, brand image, and perceived value to gain patient satisfaction so that there is an increase in positive word-of-mouth and patient revisit intention. Therefore, it is necessary to study the behavior of patients visiting abroad to get health services and the desire to recommend the goodness of the hospital. This study aims to analyze the impact of hospital brand image, service quality, and perceived value to increase patient satisfaction. It also examines the impact of patient satisfaction on positive word-of-mouth and revisits intention. This study uses a quantitative method with a survey approach to 130 patients overseas for health services. Therefore, the convenience sampling method was applied in this study. Variance-based Structural Equation Modeling technique was used to answer the research hypotheses. The results have proven that to increase patient revisit intention in hospitals and positive WoM, the hospital must pay attention to service quality, hospital brand image, and perceived value need to be considered as they impact patient satisfaction. Meanwhile, patient satisfaction was identified as a factor that drives positive word-of-mouth and patient revisit intention.

Enhancing recovery and reducing readmissions: The impact of remote monitoring on acute postoperative care in outpatient total joint arthroplasty

IntroductionOutpatient total joint arthroplasty (TJA) is gaining popularity in the United States. With a shift towards value-based healthcare and bundled payment models, the importance of safe discharge after TJA is pertinent in reducing readmissions and subsequent cost of care. However, many acute issues or complications may not occur until after discharge which can result in emergency department visits and readmission. Our study aims to characterize the effect of remote monitoring devices on acute postoperative recovery in TJA discharged within 24 h. We hypothesized there would be a decreased readmission rate in the remote home monitoring cohort. MethodsThis prospective cohort compared 50 outpatient TJAs (primary total hip and total knee replacements) defined as discharged within 24 h with a remote home monitoring device to 50 outpatient TJAs who did not receive remote monitoring. Demographics, hospital length of stay, American Society of Anesthesiology scores, and Charlson Comorbidity Index were compared with no significant difference observed between cohorts (p > 0.05). Patients’ vital signs were transmitted to a virtual response center for up to 48 h after discharge. An on-call medical team reviewed the transmissions and if prompted, would contact the patient to troubleshoot and triage. Primary outcome was 30-day hospital readmissions rates, while 30-day ED visits and patient satisfaction scores for the remote home monitoring were measured as secondary outcomes. ResultsWithin the remote monitoring cohort there was a 20 % incidence (10 patients) of abnormal vitals captured and 2 patients visited the ED, however there were no readmissions attributed to this group. Readmission rates and ED visits in the control non-monitored group were significantly higher at 12 % (p = 0.03), secondary to syncope, uncontrolled postoperative pain, cellulitis, hip dislocations, and postoperative fever. Of the patients who received remote monitoring, 14 % had trouble connecting the device to their smartphone, 44 % felt home monitoring helped in their care while recovering at home, 52 % made them feel safer, and 70 % would recommend this program. ConclusionsRemote home monitoring with a virtual response team after outpatient TJA is a feasible way to mitigate readmissions in the acute postoperative period and increase patient satisfaction. Efforts to minimize costs should not be implemented at the expense of patients’ health outcomes with a goal to find an appropriate balance between both agendas. Level of evidenceTherapeutic Level III.

Complex management and descriptive cost analysis of kidney transplant candidates: a descriptive cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe organisational care needs involved in accessing kidney transplant have not been described in the literature and therefore a detailed analysis thereof could help to establish a framework (including appropriate timing, investment, and costs) for the management of this population. The main objective of this study is to analyse the profile and care needs of kidney transplant candidates in a tertiary hospital and the direct costs of studying them.MethodsA descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted using data on a range of variables (sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, study duration, and investment in visits and supplementary tests) from 489 kidney transplant candidates evaluated in 2020.ResultsThe comorbidity index was high (> 4 in 64.3%), with a mean of 5.6 ± 2.4. Part of the study population had certain characteristics that could hinder their access a kidney transplant: physical dependence (9.4%), emotional distress (33.5%), non-adherent behaviours (25.2%), or language barriers (9.4%). The median study duration was 6.6[3.4;14] months. The ratio of required visits to patients was 5.97:1, meaning an investment of €237.10 per patient, and the ratio of supplementary tests to patients was 3.5:1, meaning an investment of €402.96 per patient.ConclusionsThe study population can be characterised as complex due to their profile and their investment in terms of time, visits, supplementary tests, and direct costs. Management based on our results involves designing work-adaptation strategies to the needs of the study population, which can lead to increased patient satisfaction, shorter waiting times, and reduced costs.

The Role of Online Queues as a Moderator Between Service Quality and Patient Satisfaction for National Health Insurance's Participants

This study aims to provide new insight and fill the gap of previous research by adding online queues to moderate the effect of perceived service quality and the organization’s image on perceived satisfaction. Data were collected from 120 respondents who are members of National Health Insurance (JKN) who became patients at Prof. dr. I Goesti Ngoerah Gde Ngoerah Hospital Denpasar. Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling (PLSSEM) was used to analyze and test hypotheses. This research applied quantitative approach using a preexisting measurement scale. The results of this study prove that service quality has a positive and significant effect on customer satisfaction. Another finding from this study is that an organization's image does not significantly affect customer satisfaction. Online queues could not moderate the relationship between service quality and the organization's image on customer satisfaction. The practical implication of this research is that hospitals must continue to improve the quality of their services to increase patient satisfaction with the hospital

Three-dimensional printing technology applied to the production of prosthesis: A systemic narrative review.

The purpose of this scoping review was to investigate the effects of 3-dimensional (3D)-printed prostheses. Articles published up to August 19, 2023, were searched in the PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Scopus databases. The search terms used were "3D printed prosthesis," "3D printed prostheses," "3D printed prosthe*," "3D printed artificial arm," "3D printed artificial leg," "3D printing prosthesis," "3D printing prostheses," "3D printing prosthe*," "3D printing artificial arm," and "3D printing artificial leg." This review included studies that applied 3D-printed prostheses to upper- or lower-limb amputees. Case reports, conference abstracts, presentations, reviews, and unidentified articles were excluded from the analysis. A total of 937 articles were identified, 11 of which were included after confirming eligibility through the title, abstract, and full text. The results indicated that the 3D-printed prostheses demonstrated the ability to substitute for the functions of impaired limbs, similar to conventional prostheses. Notably, the production cost and weight were reduced compared with those of conventional prostheses, increasing patient satisfaction. The use of 3D-printed prostheses is expected to gain prominence in future clinical practice. However, concerns regarding the durability of 3D-printed prostheses have increased among users. Therefore, there is an ongoing need to explore highly durable materials that can withstand the weight of the user without breaking easily. In addition, advancements are required in technologies that enable the depiction of various skin tones and the production of smaller-sized prostheses suitable for clothing.

The Impact of Marketing Mix and Patient Experience on Public Patient Loyalty in Hospitals: Satisfaction as an intervening variable

Background: In maintaining patient loyalty, one of the marketing strategies that can be carried out is the use of Marketing Mix. Marketing Mix can improve the perceived quality of patient discernment, namely the patient assessment of a service. If the patient's perception on the quality of services provided by the hospital is good, then the patient's experience on the hospital will be positive. This condition can increase patient satisfaction which continues in the formation of patient's loyalty. This study aims to analyze the effect of Marketing Mix and patient's experience through satisfaction on patient loyalty. Methods:This study is a quantitative study using an observational approach with a cross-sectional study design. The sample in this study was 358 general patients at Stella Maris Hospital, Makassar, Indonesia using total or purposive sampling. The instrument used in data collection is a questionnaire that has been tested for validity and reliability. Multivariate data analysis used path analysis. Results: There was direct effect of Marketing Mix (β=2.218, p=0.027) and indirect effect through satisfaction (β=2.417, p=0.016) on loyalty. There was no direct effect of patient's experience (β=0.398, p=0.691). However, the indirect effect was very significant through satisfaction (β=10.651, p<0.001). In addition, there was also direct effect of satisfaction on loyalty (β=5.161, p<0.001). Conclusion: There is a direct effect of the Marketing Mix on patient loyalty. Patient satisfaction is a significant intervening factor for both the Marketing Mix and the patient's experience, which in turn affects patient loyalty.

Prediction of Patient Visit Levels Based on Type of Service at Patar Asih General Hospital Using the Monte Carlo Method

This study aims to predict the level of patient visits at RSU Patar Asih based on the type of service provided using the Monte Carlo method. The Monte Carlo method was chosen because of its ability to handle data variability and uncertainty that often arises in the context of patient hospital visits. The data used in this study includes the number of patient visits based on the type of service at RSU Patar Asih, such as health services for pregnant women, health services for postpartum mothers, health services for newborns, health services for toddlers, health services at primary education age, health services at productive age. , health services for the elderly, health services for people with hypertension, health services for people with diabetes mellitus, health services for people with serious mental disorders (ODGJ), health services for people suspected of having tuberculosis, health services for people at risk of being infected with the human immune system (HIV)during the period 2021, 2022, 2023.The prediction results from this simulation obtained an accuracy of 81.75%, providing a fairly accurate estimate of the level of patient visits in the future. These predictions can be used by hospital management for resource planning, such as medical staff allocation, drug and medical equipment inventory management, and operational scheduling. Thus, the results of this research have the potential to improve operational efficiency and overall quality of hospital services. It is hoped that this research can contribute to more effective and efficient hospital management through data-based predictions, thereby increasing patient satisfaction and optimizing hospital resources.

Intralesional methotrexate versus 5-flurouracil in the treatment of keratoacanthoma

BackgroundKeratoacanthoma (KA) is a benign neoplasm that affects mainly photodamaged skin. It is locally destructive and may rarely spread. Surgery is not always suitable and usually disfiguring. Thus, non-operative modalities represent good alternatives.ObjectiveTo assess and compare the efficacy of intralesional methotrexate (MTX) and 5-flurouracil (5-FU) in the treatment of KA.Patients and methodsRandomized controlled trial included 20 patients with biopsy proven KA divided into 2 equal groups; group (A) received intralesional MTX, 25 mg/ml and group (B) received intralesional 5-FU, 50 mg/ml every 2 weeks till complete clearance or for a maximum 5 sessions.ResultsIn the MTX group, complete clearance was observed in 7 patients (70%) compared to 8 patients (80%) in the 5- FU group with no statistically significant difference. However, the median number of injections needed to achieve complete response in the MTX group was 3 sessions versus only 2 sessions in the 5-FU group.Limitationsthe small sample size due to the relatively low incidence of KAs in our population.ConclusionIntralesional therapy is a good alternative to surgery in selected cases of KA. Both drugs showed comparable efficacy, but 5-FU may give faster results, hence increasing patient satisfaction and compliance.

The use of botulinum toxin in aesthetic procedures

Introduction: Botulinum toxin is a protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. When administered orally in large quantities, it blocks nerve signals from the brain to the muscle, causing generalized paralysis, called botulism. However, by injecting very small amounts into a specific facial muscle, only the impulse that guides this muscle will be blocked, causing local relaxation. In this way, botulinum toxin acts as a blockade of the underlying muscles of the unwanted lines. In recent years, there has been an increase in the use of botulinum toxin in aesthetic procedures and knowledge about it is of great importance. Aim: The aim of this study was to demonstrate the use of botulinum toxin in aesthetic procedures. Methodology: This is a literature review study. Results: Botulinum toxin has been widely used in aesthetic procedures to temporarily reduce painful wrinkles, such as expression lines on the forehead, around the eyes (crow's feet) and between the eyebrows (glabella). Botulinum toxin is also used to treat gummy smiles, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) and facial asymmetry. Its aesthetic use provides a rejuvenated appearance and softens the marks of facial ageing. Clinical studies have shown positive results in terms of improved facial appearance and increased patient satisfaction with botulinum toxin procedures (CARRUTHERS, A., & CARRUTHER, J 2009). Conclusion: Botulinum toxin is extremely important in aesthetic procedures and requires a great deal of attention from professionals, as it brings great benefits if used correctly and in the correct dose.

Patient satisfaction with Saudi community pharmacy services (Wasfaty System)

IntroductionThe healthcare system in KSA has been substantially transformed as part of Vision 2030, including implementation of an electronic prescribing system, called Wasfaty, to enable patients to receive their prescriptions from community pharmacies (CPs). This study assessed patient satisfaction with CPs and the Wasfaty system. MethodsThis cross-sectional observational study used existing data from the Saudi Ministry of Health's patient experience program. Data were collected from patients (≥15 years of age) visiting governmental primary care clinics in 2022. Summary statistics were determined and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted. ResultsThe sample included 66,541 patients. More than 70% of patients were satisfied with the services of the CPs and the Wasfaty system. Being older and being female consistently showed a positive association with satisfaction across several services. Whereas patients in preventive clinics had higher odds of satisfaction with medication availability (OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.03–1.37) and waiting time (OR: 1.23; 95% CI: 1.03–1.47), patients in chronic disease clinics had lower satisfaction with medication availability (OR: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.85–0.99). Saudi patients had lower odds of being satisfied with multiple services. ConclusionsThe overall high satisfaction among patients suggested the success of the Wasfaty system in meeting patient needs and expectations. However, areas for improvement exist to increase patient satisfaction, such as addressing medication shortages and ensuring clear patient–pharmacist communication. The results highlight the importance of continued monitoring and evaluation to support the patient experience with pharmacy services, and to improve patients' journeys, medication adherence, and overall healthcare outcomes.

Pengaruh Kualitas Pelayanan terhadap Kepuasan Pelanggan Miniso Big Mall Samarinda

This study aims to test whether the Quality of Laundry Service affects Patient Satisfaction in RSUD Kab. Kediri. This study used a quantitative descriptive approach with a causal research design applied to determine the cause-and-effect relationship between the independent variable (Laundry Service Quality) and the dependent variable (Patient Satisfaction). The study population consisted of 224 non-medical employees of Kediri District Hospital. Non-probability sampling techniques with purposive sampling types are used to determine samples based on certain criteria. Using the Slovin formula and the 5% error standard, a sample of 34 employees was obtained. Data were collected using the Likert scale and analyzed to test hypotheses. The results showed that the calculated value for the Laundry Service Quality variable was 7.970, which was greater than the ttable of 2.037, with a significant value of 0.000 which was smaller than 0.050. This shows that the Quality of Laundry Service has a significant effect on Patient Satisfaction, so the hypothesis (Ha) is accepted. The regression coefficient value of 0.563 indicates that an increase of one unit in Laundry Service Quality will increase Patient Satisfaction by 0.563 units, while a decrease of one unit in Laundry Service Quality will decrease Patient Satisfaction by 0.968 units. An R² value of 0.665 indicates that 66.5% of the variation in Patient Satisfaction is explained by Laundry Service Quality, while the remaining 33.5% is influenced by other variables not studied in this study.

Early Results after Thulium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate in Patients with Urodynamically Proven Detrusor Underactivity

Objectives: Benign prostatic hyperplasia is one of the most common urological diseases. Among these patients, the presence of detrusor underactivity or acontractility represents a challenging condition since no medical treatment is available. Our objective is to evaluate early term outcomes following transurethral anatomical enucleation of the prostate with Tm:YAG support. Methods: In a retrospective analysis of 115 patients who underwent this procedure between January 2019 and March 2022 due to lower urinary tract symptoms, 8 patients with urodynamic evidence of detrusor underactivity secondary to a non-neurogenic aetiology were identified. Detrusor underactivity was defined as a bladder contractility index of <100. Results: Median age, prostate volume and bladder contractility index were 73.2 years, 78.5 cm3 and 63.9, respectively. Median International Prostate Symptom Score/quality of life, Qmax and post-void residual volume were 15/3.5 points, 4.4 mL/s and 189 mL, respectively. Postoperatively, immediate catheter-removal success rate was 87.5% (7/8), at 2 months all patients were catheter-free and remained so at 1-year follow-up. Significant improvements for quality of life, Qmax and post-void residual volume were detected. Median postoperative International Prostate Symptom Score/Quality of life, Qmax and post-void residual volume were 7/2, 21.6 mL/s and 0 mL, respectively. Conclusions: This surgical approach offers high catheter-free rates, significantly improves functional voiding parameters and increases patient satisfaction in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia and concomitant detrusor underactivity. Therefore, it can be regarded as an effective approach for such patients.

Improving access to infusion services: Results of an operational sprint.

e13522 Background: As a large clinical academic cancer center growing from 40,772 unique patients in 2021 to 44,416 patients in 2022, access for patients to begin therapy in the infusion suite was delayed by 3.2 days. In addition to delays in care the center experienced decreased patient satisfaction related to timeliness of scheduling and an inflexible scheduling template that did not allow for the maximization of chair assets. An infusion sprint was launched to address the challenges with the main goal of providing a seamless patient experience while ensuring that all 60 chair assets were maximally utilized. The multi-disciplinary team sought to accomplish this through a disciplined evaluation and intervention program with the goals of increasing access, improving patient satisfaction and growing operating income. Methods: In February 2022, a multi-disciplinary team was assembled to develop and implement a plan to increase access to the infusion suite over a period of 6 months. The team utilized LEAN-Six Sigma principles to characterize current state, desired future state and tactical interventions with metrics. Access data, available infusion appointments and activities occurring in chairs were analyzed with the goal of maximizing utilization. This was accomplished through the development of an active asset management methodology that compared available infusion appointment hours in the schedule to the actual completed hours which allowed the center to determine the growth opportunity within the current chair count. Financial performance was reviewed, and a pilot of an AI-based scheduling platform was launched. Results: Data collected in December 2022 showed that the pilot increased average daily chemotherapy infusion patient volume by 10% and overall volume by 11% over prior fiscal year from October 2021 to September 2022. Daily scheduling escalations manually resolved by leadership decreased 54% between May 2022 and September 2022. Newly created chair utilization methodology showed increased utilization from 62% to 82% in 7 months and patient satisfaction increased from 76.97% to 81.18% for “Timeliness of Scheduling.” These initiatives also resulted in an 18% increase in infusion/pharmacy income from operations from October 2021 to September 2022. All of this was accomplished without adding staff to the workforce or chairs to the infusion suite. Conclusions: A focused, intentional, multi-disciplinary infusion sprint conducted over 6 months resulted in increases of patient access, increased patient satisfaction and revenue. External validity is limited by its one site design with future investigation planned at other sites within the cancer care network to determine if results can be reproduced.

Work motivation of implementing nurses to improve the quality of health services

Introduction: The motivation of the implementing nurse is essential to improving the quality of health services. Implementing nurses plays a vital role in providing quality services to patients. High work motivation is crucial in enhancing nurses' performance and commitment to providing the best care. Objective: Knowing the motivation behind implementing nurses can improve the quality of health services. Method: This research is quantitative, with a cross-sectional study design using a quantitative analytical approach. The number of samples was 81 people using total sampling. The research instrument used was a questionnaire with a Likert scale. The analysis method uses the Fisher's exact test. Results: Based on the results of the analysis, these employees have discipline that is still lacking in completing work, while of the 5 respondents who have low work motivation, three respondents (3.7%) have good performance. This is because employees have effectiveness, efficiency, authority, responsibility, discipline, and good work initiative. The statistical test results using Fisher's exact test obtained p = 0.009, smaller than a = 0.05 (p < 0.05), which means Ho is accepted and Ha is rejected. This suggests there is a meaningful relationship between work motivation and. Conclusion: The researchers found that the work motivation of implementing nurses can improve the quality of health services. Implementing nurses can enhance healthcare quality, build team spirit, and achieve organisational goals. These efforts help increase patient satisfaction and improve job satisfaction and nurses' well-being. Therefore, understanding and applying compelling work motivation is the key to improving the quality of health services.

Chemotherapy Care Companion: Enhancing cancer care through digital remote monitoring.

1636 Background: Oncology patients often encounter preventable acute issues prompting the need for proactive monitoring and management. To manage disease and therapy complications, Ochsner Health developed Chemotherapy Care Companion (CCC) for remote monitoring of treatment patients. This abstract highlights the feasibility of digital remote monitoring (DRM) in managing oncologic patient care, while increasing patient satisfaction and reducing patient events and healthcare costs. Methods: Starting in January 2021, patients initiating an oral or intravenous cancer treatment with an active Ochsner portal account and smartphone became eligible. Providers can manually enroll patients via an order set and receive enrollment reminders within the Epic electronic medical record (EMR). Patients receive a digital WiFi-enabled monitoring scale, blood pressure cuff, and ear thermometer, at no cost. Patients are reminded via phone alerts to take vitals at 9am and 3pm, along with a daily questionnaire. The data is transmitted wirelessly to the EMR, where abnormal vital signs or questionnaire responses trigger escalations sent to an Epic in-basket pool. During clinic hours, advanced practice providers (APPs) review and intervene, utilizing embedded urgent care slots for same-day access. In August 2022, a patient satisfaction survey comprising of nine questions was distributed to all enrolled patients. Results: A retrospective analysis was conducted from September 2022 to August 2023 including 722 participants, 7,360 escalations and 668 interventions. Patient compliance reached 62%, defined as submitting at least 50% of daily vitals. The most common interventions were related to hypertension, hypotension, weight changes, and questionnaire responses. Regarding questionnaire responses, diarrhea, pain, fever, and dizziness were the mostly frequently triaged. Data analytics revealed that CCC led to a 5.9% decrease in emergency room visits, a 41.7% decrease in the rate of inpatient hospital admissions, and a 32.3% improvement in the inpatient length of stay compared to non-enrolled patients. Extrapolating this data across 5,500 oncology patients within our hospital system, CCC could prevent 172 ER visits, 914 inpatient hospital admissions and 2,006 hospital days. The survey (131 responses) revealed high satisfaction with CCC: over 80% felt a sense of security, 90% were overall satisfied, and more than 90% would recommend CCC. Conclusions: Findings highlight the value of integrating DRM in cancer care, showcasing its ability to reduce healthcare costs and optimize resource utilization while enhancing patient care and satisfaction. Moreover, the study underscores the high patient satisfaction and engagement with DRM, bolstering its feasibility and acceptance in oncology care. Further investigation is warranted to explore the financial benefits for hospitals, insurance companies, and pharmaceutical companies.

Comparison of Implant-Retained Overdenture and Conventional Complete Denture: A Survey Study to Measure Patients' Satisfaction and Quality of Life in Dental School Clinics.

Patient satisfaction and quality of life are integral to assessing oral health care quality. For many Americans still using conventional complete dentures (CDs) or implant-retained mandibular overdentures (IODs), it remains essential to consider improving their oral health outcomes and quality of life. Due to inexperienced student dentists providing dental care to dental school patients, patient grievances are generally considered a problem. Patient feedback and satisfaction have proven valuable resources for monitoring and improving patient safety. While CDs and IODs are the 2 leading treatment options for edentulism, more comparative studies in the literature need to compare their outcomes in a school setting. The research question that guided this comparative analysis was, "Is patient satisfaction and quality of life affected by the type of prostheses and provider?" A validated questionnaire was mailed to 520 individuals selected from records of patients who had received treatment for edentulous mandible at a student prosthodontic clinic at the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry from 2014 to 2016 with at least 1 year of follow-up time. A validated questionnaire for edentulous patients based on the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-19) was used. In addition, information on patients' oral health-related quality of life, including questions related to the edentulous patients' satisfaction with their dentures, was collected. The response rate was 33% (N = 171). The study's findings confirm previous findings, suggesting that IODs may significantly impact oral health-related quality of life. Data show that 76% of the IOD group reported improvement in experience when using the implants to retain the mandibular denture. However, there were no statistically significant differences in the OHIP scores between overall CD and IOD patient groups. Males with IODs had lower physical pain, limitations, and disability scores than males with CD. However, females with IODs reported more significant concerns associated with a social disability and handicap domains. Comparing users who had experiences with both treatment options, this study discerned essential characteristics that contribute to increased patient satisfaction with IODs and identified significance in outcomes by gender. These findings guide prosthodontic practitioners' patient care practices and identify a continuing need to discuss CD and IOD treatment protocols within dental school curricula.

Use of computer simulation to identify effects on hospital census with reduction of transfers for non-procedural patients in community hospitals

ObjectiveIn-person healthcare delivery is rapidly changing with a shifting employment landscape and technological advances. Opportunities to care for patients in more efficient ways include leveraging technology and focusing on caring...

A pilot study of electronic blood pressure interpretation of home blood pressure readings in primary care.

Home blood pressure (BP) monitoring is an acceptable method with high accuracy and acceptability amongst patients. It has the potential to save many hours of clinical time and is less likely to suffer from white coat bias. However, it can raise anxiety in patients who may not interpret readings immediately. A pilot study using an auto formatted excel spreadsheet which gave instantaneous colour coded feedback was sent to patients to assess its acceptability. This auto interpretation tool was sent to patients with their consent. It enabled patients to receive immediate feedback about this blood pressure control. A follow-up questionnaire was later sent to ask the patients and the staff about their experience. Hypertensive patients under 75 years of age who were sending regular home BP readings were enrolled (n = 96); of these, 31 responded within 1 month. Patient satisfaction was high; 74% preferred the electronic tool, 77% found the colour indicator reassuring, and 87% wanted to continue the electronic interpretation tool regardless of their initial preference. Staff satisfaction was excellent at 100%. This hypertension triage tool allows for interpretation by patients and non-clinicians with benefits of instantaneous reassurance, user and provider satisfaction all at reduced costs. Patients without MS Excel could not use this tool. The pilot study reinforced our hypothesis that such a modality has the potential to increase patient satisfaction and safety, and can be applied to a larger number of patients. Eventually an NHS app could be developed and rolled out for the large population.

Design and Development of Automated Lower Limb Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) Machine

Abstract: Post-operative rehabilitation is critical in orthopedic surgery, especially for hip joint surgeries. Traditional therapies like manual exercises and resource limits in rehabilitation centers might be tough, but early mobilization and rehabilitation are critical for regaining joint function and allowing patient return to normal activities. Continuously Passive Motion (CPM) devices, primarily developed for knee joint rehabilitation, offer a non-invasive method for passive joint mobility, restoring joint range of motion and lowering post-operative stiffness risk. Their application in hip joint healing is gaining pace, offering better results and increased patient satisfaction. The research also investigates abduction mobility in the hip joint, which is necessary for daily actions like stepping to the side, getting out of bed, or exiting a car. Understanding hip joint biomechanics and range of motion parameters is vital for establishing efficient rehabilitation approaches. By merging clinical insights with technology innovations, this research intends to optimize post-surgery rehabilitation regimens, enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life. The subject of orthopedic rehabilitation continues to expand through interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation, bringing new choices for enhancing patient care and recovery trajectories.