Knowledge Of Personnel Research Articles

The effectiveness of non-attendance triage training based on the ESI-IV system on the knowledge and ability of pre-hospital emergency staff in the academic hospitals of Ahvaz Jundishapur university of medical sciences

Introduction: In recent decades, E-learning has gained widespread recognition globally as a vital application of information and communication technology. Objectives: The present study investigated the effectiveness of non-attendance triage training based on the ESI-IV system on the knowledge and ability of pre-hospital emergency staff. Patients and Methods: This study was a semi-experimental interventional study, and the study population consisted of the pre-hospital emergency staff of Ahvaz university of medical sciences academic hospitals in 2021. The study tool was a questionnaire on the awareness and performance of the triage system of hospital emergency (ESI). Initially, both questionnaires were completed, and submitted the triage training file to the intervention group. Two weeks after the first phase—completion of the questionnaire for the first time— and the study of the file by the subjects, the questionnaire was completed again by the intervention group, and the data of both groups were compared. Results: According to the results, the mean of awareness and decision-making in the control group before and after the intervention was (11.8, 10.85, and 13.82) and (7.51, 7.36, and 8.86) respectively. The results indicate that non-attendance triage training based on the ESI-IV system was effective in the knowledge and ability of the pre-hospital emergency personnel had a positive and significant impact, and remains at a good level. Conclusion: The present results of the research indicate that the use of non-attendance training as an effective method can improve interns’ knowledge and ability.

Knowledge of the health personnel involved in the fluoride varnish therapy programs of primary schools in Tehran, Iran

IntroductionThe World Health Organization (WHO) places great importance on oral health promotion programs in schools, given that approximately one billion people worldwide are students. This demographic not only includes the students themselves, but also extends to school staff, their families, and the broader community, all of whom are interconnected. The objectives of this study were firstly to assess the knowledge of health personnel conducting fluoride varnish treatment (FVT) in schools, and secondly to solicit their views on the effectiveness of their training methods.MethodsData was collected from health personnel involved in FVT in schools, supervised by medical universities in Tehran province, using a questionnaire. The questionnaire was divided into four sections: demographic information, methods of receiving FVT training, respondents’ knowledge regarding FVT, and opinions about the effectiveness of FVT training methods. The questionnaire was distributed via social media, phone conversations, and email. The collected data was analyzed using Mann-Whitney in SPSS Version 26. A regression model was also fitted to the data.ResultsThe present study included 403 participants. Among various educational methods, it was found that participation in previous workshops (P = 0.001) and FVT workshops (P = 0.013) was significantly correlated with a higher FVT knowledge score. Additionally, participation in previous oral health promotion programs was significantly associated with a higher knowledge score (P < 0.05). Therefore, a history of participating in previous health promotion programs significantly contributed to the participants’ knowledge.ConclusionParticipation in previous oral health programs was found to be significantly correlated with a higher knowledge score. The effectiveness of training programs can be attributed to participation in previous workshops and FVT workshops. This study provided insights into potential strategies for enhancing personnel training in national oral health programs.

Specific features of forming the socio-economic development strategy of a modern enterprise

Methods. During the research, the following methods of scientific research were used: abstraction – when determining the essence of the socio-economic development of an enterprise; comparison – when comparing the factors of economic and social development of an enterprise; systems approach – when forming the principles of the socio-economic business development model; logic – when developing an algorithm for implementing the main elements of the model into the strategy of socio-economic development of modern enterprises. Results. The essence of the socio-economic development of an enterprise is characterized. It has been demonstrated that in order to ensure the effective operation of any enterprise, the process of developing a strategy for its socio-economic development, which combines economic and social components, is important. Such a combination allows the enterprise to achieve higher competitiveness, which is formed due to both material factors (cost reduction, profit maximization) and the influence of intangible components - reputation, customer loyalty, trust. The desire of the management of a vast majority of Ukrainian enterprises to plan their activities in order to avoid risks and threats from the external environment, as well as the formation of adaptive business stability, has been revealed. The work shows the limitations of such an approach and actualizes attention to the importance of improving the level of qualification (special knowledge, skills and abilities) of the management personnel of an organization, directly responsible for the strategic direction of its functioning and development. Novelty. The principles of building a model of socio-economic development of business are singled out and an algorithm for implementing its main elements into the strategy of socioeconomic development of modern enterprises is proposed. Practical value. The principles of building a model of socio-economic development of business are pointed out: the economic situation of an enterprise, the level of its social development, innovativeness; the number of employees who have undergone advanced training; the rate of growth (or decrease) in the volume of product sales; profitability (loss) dynamics; implementation of the principles of corporate social responsibility; a set of alternatives for the parallel implementation of strategies for economic and social development of the enterprise; the goals for improving the socio-economic development of the enterprise are defined; criteria for choosing the best solution are established; the usefulness (efficiency) of the implementation of possible alternatives will allow enterprises to have reliable guidelines in their activities and to develop effective strategies for the future.

Healthcare personnel’s perspectives on health technology in home-based pediatric palliative care: a qualitative study

BackgroundIn the context of pediatric palliative care, where the quality of life of children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions is of utmost importance, the integration of health technology must support the provision of care. Research has highlighted the role of healthcare personnel when utilizing health technology in home-based pediatric palliative care, but specific knowledge of healthcare personnel’s views on the technological relevance remains limited. Therefore, our study has explored potentials and limitations of health technology in home-based pediatric palliative care from the perspectives of healthcare personnel.MethodsOur study utilized a qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory design, including five focus groups with a total of 22 healthcare personnel. The participants were selected from various health regions in Norway and were experienced in providing home-based pediatric palliative care. Using reflexive thematic analysis, we interpreted data obtained from focus groups, identified patterns, and developed themes.ResultsThe analysis resulted in the development of three intersecting themes: balancing in-person interaction and time in home-based pediatric palliative care; exchange of information can improve timely and appropriate care; and the power of visual documentation in pediatric palliative care. The healthcare personnel acknowledged difficulties in fully replacing in-person interaction with health technology. However, they also emphasized potentials of health technology to facilitate information sharing and the ability to access a child’s health record within interdisciplinary teams.ConclusionThe results underscored that technology can support pediatric palliative care but must be thoughtfully integrated to ensure an individualized patient-centered approach. To maximize the benefits of health technology in enhancing home-based pediatric palliative care, future research should address the limitations of current health technology and consider the opinions for information sharing between relevant healthcare team members, the child, and their family.

Simulation training in airway obstruction in pediatrics

Foreign body airway obstruction (FBAO) is one of the most frequent causes of death among children and adolescents worldwide. Despite the widespread development and dissemination of methods of emergency care to the population, mass introduction of endoscopic methods of investigation and treatment, reducing the time of transportation of victims, increasing the level of knowledge of medical personnel and the public on first aid, this problem is extremely relevant at present. This is due to anatomo-physiological features of the child’s organism, age, behavioral factors, as well as possible complications, which, as a rule, are associated with untimely and incorrect technique of rendering assistance. Within the framework of the present study, a detailed analysis of episodes of FBAO in children in Ryazan region over a 5-year period was carried out, and clinical cases are described, allowing us to assess the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices of critical care unit personnel regarding pediatric palliative care: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundFew studies have evaluated the perceptions of healthcare providers in China regarding pediatric palliative care, particularly in critical care units (PICUs), where many children receive palliative care. To evaluate the knowledge, attitudes and practices of PICU personnel in China regarding pediatric palliative care.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted in five cities in China (Shanghai, Suzhou, Chongqing, Chengdu and Yunnan) between November 2022 and December 2022.ResultsThe analysis included 204 participants (122 females), with 158 nurses and 46 physicians. The average knowledge, attitude and practice scores were 9.75 ± 2.90 points (possible range, 0–13 points), 38.30 ± 3.80 points (possible range, 12–60 points) and 35.48 ± 5.72 points (possible range, 9–45 points), respectively. Knowledge score was higher for physicians than for nurses (P < 0.001) and for personnel with previous training in pediatric palliative care (P = 0.005). According to structural equation modelling knowledge had a direct positive effect on attitude (β = 0.69 [0.28–1.10], p = 0.001), and indirect on practice (β = 0.82 [0.36–1.28], p < 0.001); attitude had significant effect on practice as well (β = 1.18 [0.81–1.56], p < 0.001).ConclusionsThere is room for improvement in the knowledge, attitudes and practices of PICU personnel in China regarding pediatric palliative care. The findings of this study may facilitate the design and implementation of targeted education/training programs to better inform physicians and nurses in China about pediatric palliative care.

Assessing the Adherence to Safety Protocol Among Personnel Working in the Dental Radiology Department: A Qualitative Cross-Sectional Study.

Implementing recommended radiation safety protocols in the radiology departments is crucial for the safety of the working personnel, patients, and environment. Similarly, adherence and continuous monitoring are essential, and few studies have been conducted in dental radiology settings regarding the occupational safety of employees. Hence, the present study was carried out to assess the knowledge and adherence of personnel to safety protocol in the dental radiology department. The questionnaire-based study was conducted in a dental institute involving the relevant staff and students, consisting of 25 participants including radiographers (a technician, faculty, and postgraduates) and auxiliary staff. The 14-elementquestionnaire with questions on radiation exposure, hazards, safety protocols, protective devices, and infrastructure was given to study participants, and data was obtained. Overall, the responses to the questionnaire were favorable in terms of awareness or knowledge of participants about radiation protection and protection devices. Notably, 71.4 % (15) of the participants agreed that they consistently wear PPDs, and 86.5% (18) agreed that the radiology operatory is well-equipped concerning radiation safety measures. On the whole, the responses to the questionnaire were encouraging from the auxiliary staff in terms of radiation protection awareness. The perception of study participants provides valuable insight to enhance the adherence to radiation safety protocol in the institutes. The study demonstrated that most participants revealed adequate knowledge of radiation exposure hazards, the need for personnel protection, and adherence to radiation safety protocol. This study would serve as the pilot project and may provide a platform for further multicenter studies to be carried out.

Epilepsy Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Front-Line Healthcare Workers in the City of Conakry

Epilepsy is a serious brain disease that affects people of all ages. Evaluating healthcare staff is a key factor in improving the care of people with epilepsy. We studied the knowledge, attitudes and practices of healthcare personnel.

Detecting child sexual abuse in child and adolescent psychiatry: a survey study of healthcare professionals' assessment practice.

Research shows that only around half of all survivors of child sexual abuse (CSA) disclose the abuse during childhood and adolescence. This is worrying, as CSA is related to substantial suffering later in life. The proportion of children and adolescents who have been exposed to CSA is significantly higher in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (CAP) than in the general population. Healthcare professionals report that uncovering CSA is a complex and challenging task. However, we know little about how they proceed when uncovering CSA. More knowledge of healthcare personnel's experience is therefore necessary to facilitate and increase CSA disclosure. The study aims to explore how CAP healthcare professionals in Norway proceed when assessing and detecting CSA, how they experience this work, and what hinders or facilitates their efforts. The study employed a mixed method approach. Data was collected through an anonymous online survey, generating both quantitative and qualitative data. The sample consisted of 111 healthcare professionals in CAP, of whom 84% were women, with a mean age of 40.7 years (range 24-72; sd = 10.8). Mean years of CAP clinical experience were 8.3 years (range 0-41; sd = 7.5). The quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics, correlations, and independent sample t-tests, while the qualitative data was analysed using a team-based qualitative content analysis. The results showed that detection of CSA was viewed as an important, but complex task in CAP, and the existing procedures were deemed to be insufficient. The therapists mostly felt confident about how to proceed when they suspected or detected CSA, yet they seldom detected CSA. In their initial assessment they applied standardised procedures, but if their suspicion of possible CSA persisted, they seemed to rely more on clinical judgement. Specific challenges and facilitators for CSA detection were identified, both in the individual and in the organisation. The study highlights the challenges and complexities healthcare professionals and the CAP system face when assessing CSA, which may account for the low detection rate. The results show that healthcare professionals believe room for clinical autonomy and targeted competence development may improve CSA detection. Additionally, the findings suggest a need for CAP to define roles and responsibilities within and between agencies.

Research on Hospital-Based Health Technology Assessment in Clinical Application Management of Medical Technology in Public Hospitals in China: Hainan Province Sample

Though investigating the knowledge of professional personnel on medical technology management, this study aimed to explore the establishment of an electronic HB-HTA approach in clinical application management of medical technology in public hospitals. The study designed a questionnaire to collect data and recruited a total of 1089 professional staff from 16 hospitals in Hainan. Medical staff had limited awareness of medical technology clinical application management and the HB-HTA approach. The working years, education level, and professional title level of medical staff were positively correlated with the awareness of medical technology management (P&lt;0.05). In addition, the professional titles of medical staff were positively correlated with awareness(P&lt;0.05). The higher the professional title level, the higher the awareness degree, followed by the correlation of working years. To increase the awareness and use of clinical applications of medical technology, the HB-HTA should be well organized. The electronic HB-HTA approach should be strongly formulated and undertaken by the medical staff in clinical application management of medical technology in public hospitals.

Where Do We Stand on Cervical Spine Immobilisation? A Questionnaire among Prehospital Staff.

Background: Cervical collars (CC) are routinely used in prehospital trauma treatment. However, over the past years, their application was discussed more critically since they increase intravenous pressure due to reduced venous drainage and the possibility of secondary cervical spine injury. Guidelines have been adjusted accordingly. The question is how efficient has this been put into practice, and how good, as well as up to date, is the knowledge of prehospital emergency medicine personnel about indications on cervical spine immobilisation? Methods: A 15-item questionnaire regarding the self-evaluation and result checking of the right indications for the use of a cervical collar in the prehospital setting was sent to paramedics and emergency doctors in Germany. Two hundred and nineteen completed surveys were statistically analysed. Results: Mean age of the participants was 30.45 ± 8.8. 72% were male. Regarding subjective safety, the appropriate indication of CC participants reached 79.8 ± 19.5 on a metric scale from 0 (no safety) to 100 (full safety). Mean right answers were as follows: Ambulance man (RS) 0.78 ± 0.84, paramedic (RA) 0.9 ± 0.74, paramedic (NFS) 1.03 ± 0.83 and emergency doctor (ED) 1.75 ± 1.06 (p = 0.013, Kruskal-Wallis Test). Participants who estimated their knowledge < 85% had 0.83 ± 0.8 right answers, and > 85% had 1.14 ± 0.9 right answers. Conclusions: Rational spine immobilisation is still necessary in severely injured patients. This study highlights the importance of continuing education using ongoing training, lectures or online learning with a questionnaire as a monitor for success to ensure the transfer of evidence-based medicine into daily practice.

Evaluation of the Status of Knowledge, Attitude, and Performance of Radiology Department Staff Regarding Radiation Safety Principles at Hospitals in the North and Northeast of Iran

Purpose: Although ionizing radiation is useful in diagnosing various diseases, it can cause potential biological damage such as cancer, cataracts, and fetal damage for patients and staff working in radiology departments. Therefore, knowledge and practice about applying radiation protection principles are essential. This research investigates radiology personnel's knowledge, attitude, and performance regarding radiation protection in the north and northeast of Iran.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted using a 30-item questionnaire among 435 radiology personnel in North Khorasan, Razavi Khorasan, Golestan, and Mazandaran provinces. This questionnaire included questions related to demographic information and the level of knowledge, attitude, and performance of radiology personnel regarding radiation protection. Data was also analyzed using SPSS-19 software.&#x0D; Results: The participation rate of radiology personnel was 80.55%, and the mean and standard deviation of their knowledge, attitude, and performance regarding radiation protection were 45.9907 ± 1.294, 78.1531 ± 4.707, and 44.9368 ± 6.88, respectively. Based on the results of the study, there is no significant relationship between gender and knowledge (P = 0.781), attitude (P = 0.156), and performance of personnel (P = 0.87); however, a significant relationship was observed between education degree and attitude of personnel (P = 0.026), between working years and knowledge of personnel (P = 0.019), and also between job title and attitude of personnel (P = 0.003).&#x0D; Conclusion: The results of this study revealed that there is a significant relationship between education degree and attitude of personnel, working years, and knowledge of personnel, and also between job title and attitude of the personnel. According to these results, our population, both personnel and patients have relatively poor performance and poor knowledge about radiation safety principles. Therefore, formal training in the use of ionizing radiation equipment is necessary for radiation safety.

Association of child abuse and neglect training with filing reports of concern to child welfare services: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe aptitude, knowledge, and competence of dental health personnel on child abuse and neglect (CAN) is not optimal for deciding when to file a report of concern to child welfare services (CWS).ObjectivesThe aim of this study was, firstly, to assess the association of the public dental health personnel ‘s (PDHP) training on CAN received in the last three work years, i.e., in 2016 through 2018 with filing reports to the CWS in the same period and secondly to assess the association of expressed need of training on CAN with filing reports to the CWS.MethodsThis cross-sectional study uses data from an electronic survey census of PDHP from Norway (n = 1791) conducted in 2019. The Pearson chi-square test, non-parametric tests, logistic, and negative binomial regression were used for unadjusted and adjusted analysis. Data was reported with proportions, odds ratios (OR), incidence rate ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).ResultsFrom 2016 to 2018, the prevalence estimate of filing reports to CWS was 50%, with a mean (standard deviation) of 1.39 (2.11) reports sent. The logistic regression analysis showed an association between filing reports of concern and CAN training in the last three years. Compared to those that had not received CAN training during the three previous years, the ORs (95% CI) for filing reports to the CWS during the same period was 2.5 (1.6-4.0) for one day CAN work training, 3.2 (2.0-5.1) for 2–4 days CAN training and 4.9 (2.6–9.4) for five or more days CAN training. Compared to workers who did not need training in reporting (routines of CAN), those who expressed the need for a little more and more training were less likely to file a report. The corresponding OR were 0.6 (0.4–0.9) and 0.6 (0.3–0.9), respectively.ConclusionCAN training during the last three years is associated with filing reports of concern to CWS in the same period among PDHP in Norway. The likelihood of filing CAN reports increased with the number of days of CAN training received. Secondly, the PDHP with an expressed need for training on CAN routines were less likely to report suspicions to CWS.

Interprofessional collaborative playground design and development

ABSTRACT The importance of play to children's overall development is well-documented. One of the relevant contexts in which play is both supported and observed is the outdoor playground. There are variations in playgrounds for which multiple forms of knowledge are required in their design and development. Indeed, fully addressing the complexity of child, family, school, and community interests and needs when designing and developing playgrounds is beyond the scope of any single disciplinary perspective. Thus, the convergence of knowledge of personnel representing different disciplines and community members is crucial for developing innovative playgrounds that allow children to develop, make friends, and play as equals. Despite this need, there is a significant divide in how the different personnel approach playground design. In this position paper, we consider efforts to collaboratively bridge the gap between stakeholders and offer steps for engaging in a shared educational approach to interprofessional collaborative playground design. We describe the overarching context of both the academic and business environments; differing logics; time concerns; communication practices, rigor and relevance, and interests and incentives. We consider efforts to collaboratively bridge the gap between stakeholders and offer steps for engaging in a shared educational approach to interprofessional collaborative playground design and development.

The implementation of the CDS-quiz, a novel educational method, in augmenting the knowledge and competence of pharmaceutical technical personnel

Background: Pharmaceutical personnel are crucial to therapy implementation within healthcare facilities. The predicament lies in optimising the role of pharmaceutical technical staff within clinical pharmacy services, acting as a support system for pharmacists. The impediment to achieving higher satisfaction is attributable to pharmaceutical personnel's inadequate knowledge and skills. Therefore, a need arises for an efficient educational method to enhance their knowledge and proficiency. Objective: To examine the implementation of the CDS-Quiz for enhancing patient knowledge and satisfaction. Method: Over 90 day-research was conducted employing ceramah-, discussion-, and skill-quiz (CDS-Quiz). The respondents consisted of ten PTPs in healthcare facilities. The assessment of patient contentment was undertaken before and following the intervention. Result: After implementing the CDS-Quiz, there was a statistically significant enhancement in PTPs’ knowledge and proficiency (p &lt; 0.001). These include a substantial upswing in patient contentment levels concerning reliability (68.8% to 89.6%), responsiveness (71.1% to 88.8%), and empathy (81.2% to 92.6%) in the provision of pharmaceutical services within the healthcare facility. There was also an increase in assurance (88.2% to 95.5%) and tangible (86% to 91.7%). Conclusion: The CDS-Quiz method proved the enhancement of the knowledge and skills of PTPs in healthcare services and can be applied to maximise pharmaceutical services.

IJCM_90A: Knowledge about newer contraceptives among health care personnel working in primary health centres in north coastal district of Andhra Pradesh- a Cross sectional analytical study

Background: According to NFHS -5 the contraceptive prevalence rate has 67%. The unmet need for contraception is two-pronged: a spacing method and a permanent method. A Newer Oral contraceptive pill Chhaya is suitable for both of these purposes. Another newer injectable contraceptive available as Antara. Both are having less side effects. Government of India supplies free of cost. But its current acceptance rates are lower than expected. Health Care Personnel are the key persons to educate, promote and create awareness on contraceptive acceptance in the community especially, Eligible Couple. Hence this study was conducted to assess the knowledge of grassroot level of Health Care Personnel. Objectives: 1. To assess the knowledge of field Health Care Personnel on Newer Contraceptives. 2. To compare the knowledge among Health Care Personnel in Urban and Rural PHCs. Methodology: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 100 Health care personnel (5 Urban &amp; 5 Rural PHCs) of North coastal district, Andhra Pradesh during November 2023 by simple random sampling with prevalence 50% and with allowable error 10%. Those who are willing, included in the study after taking written informed consent. Knowledge was categorized as Poor, Fair, Good. Data was collected by using pretested semi-structured questionnaire. Data was entered and analyzed using MS Excel and SPSS 21. Prior approval from institutional educational committee was obtained. Results: Mean age of study population is 38 ± 17 years. Mean service was 8.4 ± 9 years. 72% of study population were =10th standard.39.8% of the health care personnel have fair knowledge and 60.2% of health care personnel have poor knowledge on newer contraceptives. Fair Knowledge was more among urban study subjects. Conclusion: Knowledge about contraceptive was inadequate in majority of health care personnel. It should be enhanced by conducting scrupulous training programs.

Characteristics, knowledge, attitude, and practice of pharmacy personnel in supporting tuberculosis treatment: A multicenter cross-sectional study in a high-burden tuberculosis country

BackgroundPositive roles of community pharmacy in tuberculosis (TB) care have been widely reported. However, the actual practice of supporting TB treatment is not optimal yet. ObjectivesWe analyzed the current practice of community pharmacy personnel and its factors in supporting the successful treatment of TB patients in Indonesia, aiming to develop strategies for effective and sustainable TB practice models for the community pharmacy. MethodsWe performed a cross-sectional survey in 3 areas representing Indonesia's eastern, central, and western parts. Development and validation of the questionnaire were conducted to assess 4 domains, that is, characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and practice of community pharmacy personnel in supporting the successful treatment of TB patients. Data were collected with purposive convenience sampling using online and offline questionnaires. Descriptive analyses were used to summarize factors in each domain, while binary logistic regression was used to analyze the associated factors of the practice. ResultsThirty-five questionnaire items indicated a valid instrument, and the study successfully included 844 participants who comprised pharmacists (n = 473, 56%) and pharmacy assistants (n = 371, 44%). Although most of the knowledge items were correctly answered by more than 60% of the participants, items related to TB signs, risk groups, drug regimens, and medicine uses were still less than 60%. This was in line with exposure to updated TB training in only 51% of the participants (n = 426). Most of the participants had a positive attitude toward their professional role (n = 736, 87%), capability (n = 646, 77%), and consequences (n = 655, 78%) in supporting TB treatment. However, this was not aligned with the actual practice of supporting TB treatment, intensively performed by only 1.3% of participants (n = 11). We identified several factors associated with the practice, that is, a pharmacy assistant background (P < 0.05), short working time (P < 0.05), experience in TB training (P < 0.001), and a positive attitude (P < 0.001). ConclusionThis study highlighted a limited number of community pharmacy personnel intensively practicing as TB treatment supporters in Indonesia. An interventional package considering the identified factors is needed to develop effective and sustainable practices in the real world.

The illegal exploitation of threatened manta and devil rays in the Chagos Archipelago, one of the world’s largest no-take MPAs

Illegal fishing is a concern within marine protected areas (MPA) worldwide, particularly for threatened species such as manta and devil rays (mobulids). However, due to the lack of taxonomic knowledge of enforcement personnel, illegal fishing catch records relating to mobulids can be limited. Here, an examination of illegal catch photographs from local enforcement authorities of the Chagos Archipelago’s vast no-take MPA revealed approximately 79 individual mobulids from just seven vessels, equating to an estimated 20 tonnes. This is likely a vast underestimation due to the limited detection of illegal fishing activity and species-specific reporting. If catches of this magnitude are commonplace within the MPA, they are likely having a detrimental effect on local mobulid populations. Accurate and consistent catch data recording and reporting are crucial to fulfil mobulid conservation responsibilities, as is comprehensive research on the movement ecology and habitat use dynamics of all mobulid species in the region.

Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices on Exposure to Camphor &amp; Eucalyptus Essential Oils and Risk of Seizure Disorder in Children: A Cross Sectional Study

Background: Camphor and eucalyptus essential oils contain camphor and eucalyptol respectively which serve as active ingredients in over-the-counter drugs to manage upper respiratory tract infections and pain in children. However, because of their pro-convulsant properties, seizures constitute a documented complication of their toxicity after ingestion, inhalation, and dermal exposure.&#x0D; Objectives: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of parents and health personnel on the risk of onset of seizures in children exposed to pharmaceutical products containing camphor and/or eucalyptus essential oils.&#x0D; Methods: This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study conducted in the Mother and Child Centre of Chantal Biya Foundation, a reference hospital. The survey was conducted using questionnaires directed to health personnel and parents of hospitalized children under 8 years old.&#x0D; Results: A total of 350 parents out of the 360 encountered were included in the study and 57 health personnel out of the 100 encountered. Parents 337 (96.3%) and health personnel 18 (31.6%) had poor knowledge on the issue. Parents 338 (96.6%) and health personnel 54 (94.75%) had very satisfactory attitude scores. Both parents 319 (91.1%) and health personnel 31 (54.4%) had harmful practices scores.&#x0D; Conclusion: This study showed that both parents and health personnel had poor knowledge, very satisfactory attitudes and harmful practices towards the risk of onset of seizures in children exposed to pharmaceutical products containing camphor and/or eucalyptus essential oils.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices of health care workers regarding the prevention of nosocomial infections in the ICU

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes and practices of health care personnel regarding the prevention of nosocomial infections in the ICU. Methods: This was a cross-sectional, descriptive, study that took place in the intensive care units of two university hospitals of Yaoundé. Our study was conducted in two phases: the first phase consisted of the administration of an anonymous, self-administered questionnaire to the health care personnel who agreed to participate in the study, and the second phase permitted us to evaluate the personnel’s’ practices using the WHO model observation form. Data analysis was done using CS-Pro version 7.5, Microsoft® Office Excel 2013 and S.P.S.S. 21.0. Results: Our sample consisted of 60 practitioners. The sex-ratio was 0.54. The mean age was 38.35 ± 8.86 years. Most of the staff had been in the ICU for less than 5 years and only 35% of the staff had received at least one continuing education course on infection control measures. Good knowledge was found in 70% of the staff assessed, 60% had incorrect attitudes, and 63% had inadequate practices. The rate of compliance with good hygiene practices was 55.2%. Conclusion: Knowledge were mean, attitudes were wrong and practices were inadequate regarding the management of nosocomial infections in the ICU.