Patient Awareness Research Articles

Atrial fibrillation fact sheet in Korea 2024 (part 1): epidemiology of atrial fibrillation in Korea

Background and objectivesThis study aimed to analyze and present updated trends in atrial fibrillation (AF) epidemiology within the Korean population, providing a foundation for planning and implementing appropriate management and treatment strategies for patients with AF.Patients and methodsWe used the Korean National Health Insurance Service database to evaluate the prevalence, incidence, comorbidities, and clinical adverse outcomes of patients with AF in Korea between 2013 and 2022.ResultsAF prevalence in Korean adults aged ≥ 20 years doubled (1.1 to 2.2%) between 2013 and 2022, with significant increases observed across various sex and age groups. Similarly, the number of newly diagnosed patients with AF per year increased steadily, with the incidence rising from 184 to 275 per 100,000 person-years, particularly among older populations. Over this period, the mean age of patients with AF increased from 67.7 to 70.3 years, and comorbidities prevalence and CHA2DS2-VASc score rose significantly, indicating a higher stroke risk. Compared with patients without AF, AF was associated with an increased risk of mortality (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.78), ischemic stroke (HR: 2.39), major bleeding (HR: 2.10), myocardial infarction (HR: 1.44), and heart failure admission (HR: 2.42).ConclusionAF prevalence and incidence have steadily increased between 2013 and 2022, with a more pronounced increase in older patients. Patients with AF are increasingly becoming a high-risk population and are at increased risk of clinical adverse outcomes compared to non-AF patients. Therefore, a sustained national effort to improve AF awareness and comprehensive care quality for patients with AF is required.

Harnessing policy to promote inclusive medical product evidence: development of a reference standard and structured audit of clinical trial diversity policies

ObjectiveTo develop a reference standard based on US Food and Drug Administration and stakeholder guidance for pharmaceutical companies' policies on diversity in clinical trials and to assess these policies.DesignDevelopment of...

DENTISTRY PATIENTS' KNOWLEDGE LEVELS AND PERSPECTIVES ON ROOT CANAL TREATMENT

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the level of knowledge, sources of information, and perspectives of patients about root canal treatment with demographic data. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A questionnaire consisting of pre-structured closed-ended questions was distributed to 500 volunteer participants from patients who came to the dental school for general dental examination. The questionnaire included questions on demographic data and 12 multiple-choice questions to assess patients' knowledge, awareness and attitudes towards root canal treatment. With the completed questionnaire, participants' knowledge and opinions about root canal treatment were analyzed with demographic data. Descriptive statistics and regression model were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: It was found that 335 (67%) of the patients had information about root canal treatment. The source of information was found to be the dentist by 77.6%. Gender was not found to have an effect on the level of knowledge and attitude towards root canal treatment (p=0.926). As the age level increases, the level of knowledge about root canal treatment decreases (p=0.044). As the level of education and income increases, the level of knowledge about root canal treatment increases (p=0.000). CONCLUSIONS: Patients' knowledge and awareness levels were found to be affected by age, education and income level. Although social media and the environment affect patients' knowledge and awareness, it is understood that dentists are the main factor.

A quantitative study on emotional appetite, mindful eating, and risky behaviors in male substance use disorder patients

ABSTRACT Background and Objective To evaluate the emotional appetite, eating awareness and risky behaviors of patients with substance use disorder. Method A total of 292 individuals were enrolled in this study; 142 individuals with a substance use disorder and 150 healthy individuals. Our sample was male. The Mindful Eating Questionnaire (MEQ), Emotional Appetite Questionnaire (EAQ) and Risky Behaviors Scale (RBS) were used. p < .05 was considered statistically significant. Results The results showed that the levels of smoking, emotional appetite, irregular eating habits, school dropout, antisocial behaviors and substance use increased in individuals with a substance use disorder (p < .05). In contrast, there was no significant difference in disinhibition, focus, eating control, eating discipline, mindfulness and interference values related to eating awareness (p > .05). Conclusions This study highlights the effects of substance use disorders on emotional eating and risk behaviors, but not mindful eating. However, more studies are needed.

O-092 Prevalence of multiple gestation births and perinatal outcomes in pregnancies secondary to clomiphene citrate treatment: a nationwide cohort study

Abstract Study question Is the incidence of multiple gestation births higher in pregnancies obtained after clomiphene citrate (CC) treatment compared to spontaneous pregnancies? Summary answer The rate of multiple gestation births in pregnancies obtained after CC treatment is significantly increased compared to spontaneous pregnancies. What is known already CC is a selective estrogen modulator frequently used to induce ovulation in infertile women. Data regarding the prevalence of multiple gestation births and adverse perinatal outcomes after CC are contradicting and based on meta-analysis of small sample size studies. Multiple gestations are frequently associated with complications such as preeclampsia, premature labor, and growth restriction, which contribute to higher mortality and morbidity rates. Study design, size, duration Using the French National Health Data System (SNDS) spanning 2013 to 2019, we conducted a nationwide cohort study including all pregnancies lasting more than 22 weeks of gestation, in women aged between 18-43 years. Participants/materials, setting, methods For each women, the first pregnancy during study was included. Women with the dispensing of IVF/ICSI treatment and/or gonadotrophins were excluded. Pregnancies exposed to CC (during the period [-60days,-11days] before the beginning of the pregnancy) were 1:10 matched to unexposed pregnancies. Pregnancies exposed to CC between 12 to 2months or less than 11 days before the beginning of the pregnancy were excluded to mitigate misclassification bias. The primary outcome was the multiple gestation birth rate. Main results and the role of chance Of 3,173,013 pregnancies, 32,010 (10 ‰) occurred in women exposed to clomiphene. The multiple pregnancy rate was significantly higher in pregnant women exposed with CC compared to matched controls (odd ratio 4.1, 95% CI [3.9-4.3]) such as twin pregnancies (OR 4.1, 95% CI [3.9-4.3]) and triple or more pregnancies (OR 5.1, 95% CI [3.8-7.2]). Women exposed to CC presented significantly more adverse obstetrical and perinatal outcomes, including stillbirths, premature delivery threats, premature rupture of membranes, gestational diabetes, placenta previa, gravid hypertension, pre-eclampsia, preterm birth, small for gestational age (SGA), C-section rate, and major birth defect rate. After stratification on multiple pregnancy and adjustment on confounders (history of psychiatric disease, diabetes, arterial hypertension, obesity and embryo reduction during pregnancy), women exposed to CC had a significantly higher risk of stillbirth, gestational diabetes, placenta previa, pre-eclampsia, preterm delivery and SGA in case of singleton pregnancies. Additionally, in the case of multiple pregnancies, they had a higher risk of placenta previa, preterm delivery, and SGA compared to non-exposed women. Limitations, reasons for caution The use of filled prescriptions as a measure of drug exposure could be subject to bias such as misclassification bias, although we attempt to mitigate it. Wider implications of the findings Clomiphene use is strongly associated with multiple gestation births and with adverse obstetrical and perinatal outcomes even in singleton pregnancies. These findings should provide awareness of practitioners and patients about its use. It underscore the importance of attentively monitoring follicular growth during the treatment process to avoid multiple pregnancies. Trial registration number NA

P-326 Improving quality of life and awareness of endometriosis patients using personalized web app with indications about non pharmacological support and lifestyle changes

Abstract Study question Is it possible to improve quality of life of endometriosis patients using a personalized web app suggesting non-pharmacological interventions and lifestyle changes ? Summary answer A personalized web app is useful to improve awareness and quality of life of endometriosis patients What is known already Our project is based on four main considerations: first, there is a lack of information and awareness about endometriosis symptoms and possible treatments among affected patients; second, there is no definitive cure yet and nor medications nor surgery can be considered as definitive solution; third, web instruments and social media are useful nowadays to spread knowledges about the disease; fourth, non-pharmacological support is a real instrument to better deal with the symptoms and improve quality of life. Our web app is located in this context. Study design, size, duration This is a pilot study structured on one year follow-up of symptoms and quality of life of patients with confirmed endometriosis, giving them non-pharmacological suggestions and lifestyle changes useful to better face the pathology using a personalized web app. So far, we collected data from 50 patients. Preliminary results will be based on six months followup. The project started in December 2023 Participants/materials, setting, methods Participants are patients with diagnosis of endometriosis -ultrasound,mri and surgery - between 24-45 years old, using a personalized web app in which suggestions about non-pharmacological support/lifestyle changes, given by a multidisciplinary team, are contained. Indications received are based on pelvic symptoms - dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, chronic pelvic pain- and main systemic symptoms - chronic fatigue syndrome, migraine, bowel implications/endobelly, urinary disfunctions. Quality of life before and after the indications received was measured using EHP-30 questionnaire. Main results and the role of chance A multidisciplinary team - specialists in gynaecology, infertility, urology, pelvic floor, nutrition, chronic pain, acupuncture, psychology, yoga/pilates, law- created a web app in which indications about non-pharmacological treatments/lifestyle changes to face endometriosis symptoms are contained. We divided the indications based on main pelvic symptoms of endometriosis - dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, chronic pelvic pain- and main systemic symptoms - chronic fatigue syndrome, migraine, bowel implications/endobelly, urinary disfunctions. For each protocol, in validation by Italian ministry of health and structured in six months indications to be followed, we gave correct informations about the pathophysiology of endometriosis, related symptoms and how to recognize them, which specialist patients should consult, what kind of supplements are useful to reduce chronic inflammation in addition/without medical therapy, implications on fertility, nutrition indications, psycological support, physical activity, when surgery should be considered or where to refer to have a proper treatment. We also created the first online community formed by specialists and patients: patients web groups are useful to share experiences, but there is risk of misinformation. The presence of specialists in a web-based community with patients could also make the difference. So far, following our indications, 50 patients reported a significant improvement in quality of life Limitations, reasons for caution Limitation in patients selection is the difference in methods of diagnosis, not always performed by specialists. We do not find reasons for caution: non-pharmacological support exists. Correct informations in unique source raise awareness, the role of supplements, pelvic floor treatments, acupuncture, nutrition, psycological support are widely recognized in literature Wider implications of the findings We aim to properly support patients in management of endometriosis. With easily wide-spreading instruments such a web app created by specialists, supported by social media and online community, we also aim to reduce the diagnostic delay. Results so far indicate improvement in quality of life among the participants. Trial registration number not applicable

20 An Evaluation of the Quality and Readability of Online Information Regarding TMJ Dysfunction

Abstract Aim The accessibility and availability of the internet has allowed people to increasingly seek health information online, and therefore it plays an essential role in the decision-making process of the patient. The study aimed to assess the quality and readability of online health information on TMJ dysfunction. Method The search was conducted on Google using keywords: jaw pain, jaw locking, jaw discomfort, jaw clicking, jaw popping, temporomandibular joint, TMJ dysfunction, TMD and temporomandibular disorder. Ensuring Quality Information for Patient (EQIP) tool was used to assess quality of information and the application of readability score reflected through Flesch Reading Ease Score (FRES), Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level(FKGL), Gunning-Fog Index(GFI) and Simple Measure of Gobbledygook(SMOG). Results 134 websites were eligible for assessment. The overall median EQIP score was 23, with an IQR of 7 and maximum score of 30. The most common source of information was healthcare industry (n=60; 45%), followed by news services (n=19; 14%), with a median EQIP score of 20 and 25 respectively. Statistically significant differences in overall EQIP scores were found between different sources of information (p=0.004). Only 31(23%) websites achieved the recommended 6th grade or below readability level, and only 14 (10%) discussed complication rates with none mentioning mortality rates at all. Conclusions Most online information on TMJ dysfunction is of suboptimal quality and readability. This study identified areas for improvements when producing patient material regarding TMJ dysfunction. To improve patient education and awareness, content creators should strive to be informative, accurate, and patient-centric.

P-475 Introducing the future of personalized fertility care - AndreiaAI

Abstract Study question Is it possible to build a robust and accurate large language model, from anonymized patient records, to predict live birth occurrence? Summary answer A prototype provides answers in different languages, creates charts/tables based on natural language inputs, and runs statistical analysis, predicting live birth occurrence with 78% accuracy. What is known already The capability for a non-technical person to query clinically valid information and safely managed data represents the single largest step towards the democratization of clinical knowledge to the layperson in the history of ART. Whilst patients are used to Googling their symptoms, Chat GPT was trained on the open internet and will provide equally poor advice. However, when the information is locked down and limited to a specific data set, the ability of a LLM to parse questions as code and return answers specific to the underlying data set presents great opportunities to improve patient and clinician awareness. Study design, size, duration Design: proof of concept Size: 1 million anonymized patient outcome records were gathered from the regulator’s anonymized register (i.e., HFEA, from 1991 to 2018) Duration: between August and December 2023 Participants/materials, setting, methods Participants/materials: 1 million anonymized patient outcome records were gathered from the regulator’s anonymized register (i.e., HFEA, from 1991 to 2018) Method: Data was merged and pre-processed for analysis. As an approach to machine-learning modeling, Ensembling with Random Forest and GB was chosen. Different models were tested to reach maximum accuracy and performance. Patient scenarios based on evidence-based cases were used. A ChatGPT-like interface was preferred as it is simple for doctors and patients to interact with. Main results and the role of chance A prototype model was created, using anonymized patient outcome records, and formulated various patient scenarios based on evidence-based cases, to demonstrate new capabilities. The capabilities include the ability to provide answers in different languages for non-native English speakers, to dynamically create charts and tables based on natural language inputs, and to run sophisticated statistical analysis linked to the underlying dataset for example predict live birth occurrence based on demographic inputs,s and presentation of symptoms. The prototype went as far as creating an ML model to predict live birth occurrence with a 78% accuracy. This was achieved by using an Emsebling method for a binary classification problem (random forest) with live birth occurrence as the target and 14 features, such as age, treatment, and diagnosis. Whilst the technical nature of how this was delivered is extremely important for explainable AI and to engender trust as opposed to replacing the doctor with just another black box, the fact that a predictive model based on 1 million patients and linked back to a specific patient scenario in under 30 seconds for the end-user perspective is proof of capability that personalized insights can be quickly and accurately generated in clinical consultation. Limitations, reasons for caution The study was a proof of concept which needs further research and validation in a clinical setting. Wider implications of the findings The proof of concept evidences the capabilities of LLMs to increase awareness of fertility information. It is accessible, in 40 different languages, on-demand, free to the end-user, and clearly visualized. Access to accurate information that provides personalized insights based on specific criteria, speeds up the time to diagnosis and treatment. Trial registration number n/a

728 Laparoscopic Fundoplication as a Day Case Procedure - Patient Comprehension for a Successful Model

Abstract Aim The British Association of Day Surgery states that elective laparoscopic Nissen’s fundoplication procedures should be performed as a day case in 40% of patients. The purpose of the study was to design a model for laparoscopic fundoplication to increase the numbers done as a day case procedure. Method This was a retrospective study of all patients who underwent laparoscopic fundoplication from 2014 - 2019. We introduced patient information leaflets and awareness amongst the patients regarding the procedure following our initial audit in 2014. Further intervention in terms of the surgical team and theatre staff awareness to reach our goal by distributing surgery-oriented pamphlets and information. We re-audited to see if there were any improvements in 2016 and 2019 when compared to our previous cohort. A total of 104 patients were audited through the years. Results In 2019, 34.4 % patients regardless of hiatus hernia size were discharged on the same day; 48.2 % patients were discharged on the next day; 24.1% patients had a large hiatus hernia or gastric volvulus; 40.9% patients excluding large and complicated hiatus hernia were discharged on the same day; 75.8 % patients had intraoperative local anaesthetic inject at the operative field. Conclusions The main two factors which contributed to improvement of our results were Intraoperative injection of local anaesthetic medications to operative field and Patient information pamphlets. Also, when a patient is made aware of the procedure being a day case in advance, they are more prepared to return home the same day following the procedure.

P-345 Too cool to be late: the discrepancy between the required and obtained number of oocytes in a social fertility preservation program

Abstract Study question What are the outcomes of thawed oocytes from social fertility preservation (SFP) programs by age? Is the number of cryopreserved oocytes sufficient to achieve pregnancy? Summary answer The outcomes of thawed oocytes from SFP programs diminish with age, and the number of cryopreserved oocytes is below the desirable quantity for pregnancy achievement. What is known already Social fertility preservation empowers women to safeguard their fertility by anticipating age-related decline and diminished efficacy of fertility treatments in older ages. The effectiveness of oocyte vitrification programs, and consequently fertility preservation, depends on the patient’s age. Previous reports on fertility preservation indicate that, typically, a larger number of oocytes are retrieved in patients aged ≤35 when compared to older patients. Although these reports document that oocyte vitrification preserves developmental potential akin to fresh oocytes, uncertainties persist regarding patient awareness of the adequate number of cryopreserved oocytes needed for pregnancy. Study design, size, duration This historical cohort study, conducted at a university-affiliated IVF center from January 2012 to December 2022, analyzed data from 1,332 vitrified oocyte ICSI cycles involving 1,000 SFP program participants. Fertility preservation patients and oocyte thawing cycles (n = 132) were categorized by age as follows: &amp;lt;30 years (n = 55 and 24), 30-35 years (n = 250 and 33), 36-40 years (n = 480 and n = 42), and &amp;gt;40 years (n = 215 and 33) for preservation and thawing, respectively. Participants/materials, setting, methods Laboratory and clinical outcomes were compared among the groups. In a subsequent analysis, data from PGT cycles conducted in our laboratory (n = 480) from January to December 2022 were utilized to determine blastulation and euploidy rates within vitrified oocytes. This data, combined with literature findings, was employed to estimate the average number of oocytes required for a patient to reach a 95% cumulative probability of pregnancy. These estimates were then compared with our database findings. Main results and the role of chance There were 1,332 cycles of SFP involving 1,000 patients. Among them, 121 (12.2%) returned for oocyte thawing and underwent 132 ICSI cycles. A significant difference in the survival rate was observed among thawed oocytes from patients under 30 compared to those over 40 years-old (&amp;lt;30: 90.7 ± 33, 30-35: 81.4 ± 40.4, 36-40: 83.4 ± 35.5, and &amp;gt;40: 72.3 ± 34, p = 0.047). Additionally, a significantly higher pregnancy rate was observed in the 30–35 age group when compared to those in the group aged &amp;gt;40 years-old (&amp;lt; 30: 50.0 ± 17.7, 30-35: 56.0 ± 85.0, 36-40: 46.3 ± 69.0, and &amp;gt;40: 21.4 ± 93.0, p = 0.048). However, there was no significant difference when comparing fertilization, blastulation, and implantation rates. In the general group, an appropriate number of oocytes to be cryopreserved to achieve a pregnancy chance of 95% would be 17. For patients aging &amp;lt; 30, 30-35, 36-40, and &amp;gt; 40, that would be 7.47, 10.7, 22.5, and 42.8, respectively. Overall, 92 out of 1,000 patients (9.2%) obtained an adequate number of oocytes. When the group was stratified by age, it was observed that 54.5%, 27.2%, 2.5%, and 0% of the patients obtained an adequate number of oocytes to achieve pregnancy. Limitations, reasons for caution The retrospective nature of the study and the small patient cohort included in the analysis, when divided by age, may pose limitations. However, the low number of patients returning to utilize their oocytes in SFP is a consistent limitation across all studies. Wider implications of the findings These findings underscore the importance of appropriate counseling and encouragement for patients undergoing SFP earlier, ensuring a larger number of oocytes are cryopreserved. This aligns with SFP’s primary objective: enhancing women’s reproductive autonomy by enabling the postponement of childbearing and preserving the biological relationship with future offspring. Trial registration number N/A

Cancer Survivorship Care in the United States at Facilities Accredited by the Commission on Cancer

Since 2021, American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC) accreditation standards require providing a survivorship program for patients with adult-onset cancer treated with curative intent. Since more than 70% of all patients with cancer in the US are treated at CoC-accredited facilities, this presents an opportunity for a landscape analysis of survivorship care availability. To determine the prevalence, types, and outcomes of cancer survivorship services at CoC-accredited facilities. This survey study used an anonymous, online, cross-sectional survey conducted from May 4 to 25, 2023. Participants were CoC-accredited facilities in the US representing diverse CoC program categories, institutional characteristics, geographic regions, and practice types. Department of Veterans Affairs cancer programs were excluded due to data usage restrictions. Data were analyzed from July to October 2023. CoC Survivorship Standard 4.8 was released in October 2019 and programs were expected to adhere to the Standard beginning January 1, 2021. Questions included self-reported survivorship program characteristics, availability of services aligned to CoC Survivorship Standard 4.8, and perceived program impacts. Response frequencies and proportions were determined in aggregate and by CoC program category. There were 1400 eligible programs, and 384 programs participated (27.4% response rate). All regions and eligible program categories were represented, and most had analytic caseloads of 500 to 4999 patients in 2021. Most survivorship program personnel included nurses (334 programs [87.0%]) and social workers (278 programs [72.4%]), while physical (180 programs [46.9%]) and occupational (87 programs [22.7%]) therapists were less common. Services most endorsed as available for all survivors were screening for new cancers (330 programs [87.5%]), nutritional counseling (325 programs [85.3%]), and referrals to specialists (320 programs [84.7%]), while treatment summaries (242 programs [64.7%]), and survivorship care plans (173 programs [43.0%]), sexual health (217 programs [57.3%]), and fertility (214 programs [56.9%]) were less common. Survivorship services were usually delivered by cancer treatment teams (243 programs [63.3%]) rather than specialized survivorship clinics (120 programs [31.3%]). For resources needed, additional advanced practice clinicians with dedicated survivorship effort (205 programs [53.4%]) and electronic health record enhancements (185 programs [48.2%]) were most endorsed. Lack of referrals and low patient awareness were endorsed as the primary barriers. A total of 335 programs (87.2%) agreed that Survivorship Standard 4.8 helped advance their programs. These findings of this survey study of CoC-accredited programs establish a benchmark for survivorship care delivery in the US, identify gaps in specific services and opportunities for intervention, contribute to longitudinal reevaluation for tracking progress nationally, and suggest the value of survivorship care standards.

Emotional awareness in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

It has been recently acknowledged that deficits in experiencing and processing one's own emotions, also termed alexithymia, may possibly feature the frontotemporal-spectrum disorders. This study aims to determine whether alexithymia could be included within the frontotemporal syndromes of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Alexithymic traits were estimated in a cohort of 68 non-demented ALS patients with the 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20). Patients were assessed for the identification of motor-phenotypes and frontotemporal syndromes based on current classification criteria. Spearman's coefficients explored the correlates of TAS-20 measures with motor-functional profiles, global cognitive, social-cognitive (emotion recognition and empathy) and behavioral status. Abnormal TAS-20 scores were found in 13% of patients, and their distribution did not vary within motor and frontotemporal phenotypes. Significant associations were detected between TAS-20 and executive (p ≤ .011), memory (p = .006), state-anxiety (p ≤ .013) and depression measures (p ≤ .010). By contrast, TAS-20 scores were unrelated to social-cognitive performances, dysexecutive and apathetic profiles. Disease duration was the only motor-functional feature being related to the TAS-20 (p ≤ .008). Alexithymia of potential clinical relevance occur in a minority of ALS patients, and its neuropsychological correlates mostly resemble those featuring the general population. Hence, it is unlikely that alexithymia is a specific feature of frontotemporal-spectrum characterizing ALS, rather it could be an expression of psychogenic factors as a reaction to the disease.

Vaccination awareness in adult patients at a tertiary care hospital

Background: As global birth rates decline and life expectancies rise, the geriatric population is rapidly increasing. The growing geriatric population worldwide necessitates improved vaccination awareness among older adults to mitigate the increased risk of infectious diseases due to immunosenescence - the gradual deterioration of the immune system with age. The main objective of our study was to create awareness, explain the benefits of adult vaccination and brief about the CDC recommended vaccinations and their schedules. Methods: This is a cross-sectional observational study conducted for 3 months on outpatient basis through a pamphlet survey in around 150 patients. Results: 64.6% of patients completed their Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). Secondary level education and out of them 49.3% of them residing in urban areas doesn’t know about adult vaccination. Conclusion: Findings reveal that patients' decisions are influenced by sociocultural factors, access to information, and misconceptions. The results highlight the importance of targeted immunization programs for older adults and implementing National guidelines in a country like India with highest population can prevent vaccine-preventable diseases, reduce healthcare costs, and improve public health outcomes. Enhanced education and healthcare provider engagement are recommended to address vaccine hesitancy and improve vaccination rates among the elderly, especially in underprivileged communities. Keywords: adult vaccination; awareness; immunosenescence

Improving well-being and enhancing awareness in patients undergoing hemodialysis through the person-centered IARA model: an exploratory study.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) globally represents a significant health challenge, particularly among patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis. A careful nutritional and pharmacological prescription plays a key role in the effective management of these patients to optimize serum electrolytes, such as potassium, phosphorus, and protein intake. Furthermore, these patients can suffer psychological distress due to dietary restrictions and tight medication schedules. The present study explores the effectiveness of the person-centered IARA model in improving physiological markers and quality of life in CKD patients undergoing hemodialysis treatment. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the IARA model, 60 patients (M = 40; F = 20; 60.5 ± 9.9 years) undergoing thrice-weekly hemodialysis sessions were enrolled and randomly and blindly assigned to the Control or IARA group. The reduction in abnormal blood potassium, phosphorus, and total protein levels was investigated, alongside the psychological state through the SF-12 questionnaire. Preliminary findings showed a discernible reduction in the frequency of abnormal blood K (> 5.0 mmol/L) and P (> 4.5 mmol/L) levels in the IARA group compared to the Control group. In particular, such reductions were approximately 40% for K (OR = 0.57; 95% CL = 0.23/1.46) and about 15% for P (OR = 0.86; 95% CL = 0.27/2.74). A similar tendency was also observed for patient fluid intake during each hemodialysis session, with the frequency of higher-risk patients in the IARA group being 50% lower (OR = 0.50; 95% CL = 0.07/3.79) than that of the Control group. Although preliminary findings from this study suggest that the IARA model may have a positive effect on CKD patients' subjective wellbeing and quality of life (QoL), further research is needed to understand the long-term impact of the IARA intervention.

Awareness of Patients Attending to Chest Clinic regarding Airborne Diseases.

Awareness of Patients Attending to Chest Clinic regarding Airborne Diseases.

Assessment of Medication Compliance and Follow-Up Clinic Attendance Among Patients With Cardiovascular Diseases in the Jazan Region.

Cardiovascular diseases are common causes of mortality in Saudi Arabia and the world. This study aims to assess medication compliance and regularity of follow-up for cardiovascular patients in the Jazan region. An analytical cross-sectional approach was used to target all registered cardiovascular patients attending the cardio clinic in a Jazan region hospital. Data were collected using an interview questionnaire developed by the researchers with the help of experts. The questionnaire included the patients' sociodemographic data, clinical characteristics, disease-related data, drugs, and appointments. The study included 259 patients diagnosed with cardiac disease. About 53.7% of the patients were males. All the cases had the disease for one year or more. About 56% of the patients hadno difficulty remembering their medications, while 44% had problems remembering to take them. More than half of the patients had good medication adherence, and 79.6% had good appointment adherence. Only 20.4% of patients had a poor adherence rate. The adherence rate for the patients' medication and appointments was satisfactory due to high patient awareness. On the other hand, poor adherence was related more to non-Saudi patients.

Flatform Konseling Virtual ; Wujud Trasformasi Edukasi Terapeutik di Fasilitas Pelayanan Kesehatan

Virtual counseling platforms provide the ability to maintain connectivity between healthcare providers and their patients. Patients can quickly receive diagnoses, enabling faster and more accurate responses to any changes in their health. This article explains the implementation and therapeutic education phases in healthcare facilities, particularly hospitals and community health centers, using virtual counseling platforms in telemedicine programs through a literature review and a descriptive approach. The policy for the therapeutic education process in virtual counseling platforms in healthcare facilities is divided into eight stages: assessing educational needs, medical record-keeping, disease diagnosis, medical equipment safety, pain management, diet and nutrition, rehabilitation techniques, and verification of understanding received. There are five therapeutic education topics: patient-oriented, disease-oriented, patient safety-oriented, rehabilitation material, and prevention material. In the virtual counseling platform, healthcare providers implement seventeen implementation actions in the therapeutic education process based on the educational phases. First, in the Pre-Interaction Phase, the implementation actions include self-evaluation, setting the stages of virtual counseling therapeutic education, and creating a written plan according to established SOPs. Second, in the Orientation Phase, implementation actions include introducing oneself, scheduling meetings (contracting), building rapport and trust, initiating a conversation, and closing the introduction session. Third, in the Working Phase, implementation actions involve increasing the patients' understanding and awareness of themselves, developing independence competencies, therapeutic actions, conducting health education, collaboration, delegation, and observation. Fourth, in the Termination Phase, implementation actions include making temporary terminations, final terminations with evaluation of actions, and contracting for follow-up care and treatment outcomes.

AN ANALYTICAL STUDY ON CONSUMER AWARENESS AND PERCEPTION OF HOSPITALS' DIGITAL MARKETING EFFORTS

This study explores consumer awareness and perceptions of digital marketing strategies employed by hospitals, focusing on social media presence, email newsletters, online advertisements, and their impact on understanding hospital services. As hospitals increasingly turn to digital platforms to reach patients, understanding consumer responses to these strategies is critical for effective engagement. The research utilizes a quantitative approach, with a sample of 65 respondents. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, measuring awareness and perceptions of hospital digital marketing initiatives. The study tests three hypotheses related to consumer awareness of hospitals on social media, email communications, and online advertisements using one-sample t-tests. The results reveal a high level of consumer awareness regarding hospitals' social media presence and online advertisements, with mean scores significantly above the neutral value of 3. However, awareness through email newsletters and digital communication channels showed no significant difference from the neutral point, indicating a lower engagement level. These findings align with previous research indicating the increasing role of digital marketing in healthcare but suggest that certain channels, like email marketing, may require more attention. The study contributes to the literature on healthcare marketing by highlighting the importance of targeted digital strategies to improve patient engagement and awareness. Managerial implications suggest hospitals should strengthen their digital presence, particularly in underutilized channels, and develop personalized marketing approaches. Limitations of the study include the small sample size and geographical focus, with recommendations for future research to examine broader populations and the impact of digital marketing on patient decision-making and hospital choice.

Nurses’ Level of Awareness of Patients’ Rights in Hospitals

This research evaluated the awareness levels of nursing staff concerning patients’ rights in Yemeni hospitals. Using a descriptive cross-sectional approach, the research employed a simple random sampling technique to enlist 384 nursing personnel across four hospitals situated in Sana’a, Yemen. A questionnaire based on the Yemeni Patients’ Rights Charter and relevant literature on patients’ rights was employed to gather data. The findings revealed a high overall awareness level among nursing staff regarding patients’ rights, with a mean of 84.4%. The special right dimension exhibited the highest awareness level (88%), while the knowledge dimension recorded the lowest level (79%). The investigation identified no statistically significant variations in awareness levels attributable to demographic factors such as gender, marital status, age, occupation, experience, and educational qualifications. However, differences were observed in awareness levels based on the hospital type, as private hospitals displayed higher awareness than government hospitals. The results underscore the necessity for tailored educational initiatives targeting nursing staff to address identified knowledge gaps, particularly in government hospitals. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of safeguarding patients’ property against theft, damage, and loss by educating nursing staff on patients’ right to know the identity and qualifications of healthcare providers - a crucial aspect of patients’ rights that nursing staff must be cognizant of to ensure quality care provision.

Comparison of the outcomes of Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA): tourniquet and tourniquet-less arthroplasty.

Total knee replacement surgery (TKA) ranks among the most commonly performed orthopedic procedures nowadays. Many surgeons perform TKA with the use of tourniquet. It is also possible to carry out a tourniquet-less TKA. As with every surgery, TKA comes with the possibility of postoperative complications. The aim of this paper is to review the available scientific literature in order to systematize current knowledge and compare the pros and cons of tourniquet-based and tourniquet-less methods of total knee arthroplasty. This objective will serve to enhance patient awareness regarding the methods of total knee arthroplasty and provide reliable information to surgeons performing this procedure. The use of a tourniquet in total knee arthroplasty reduces intraoperative blood loss and operation time but may increase postoperative blood loss. It is associated with a higher risk of infection. Patients without a tourniquet experience less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, and comparable muscle function recovery over time. Tourniquet use increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis, influenced by tightening time. The choice between these methods involves balancing advantages and drawbacks in blood loss, infection risk, pain, and muscle recovery. Each method presents its own set of advantages and potential drawbacks, and the choice between the two methods requires a careful consideration of these factors.