Safe Practices Research Articles

Evaluating Hepatitis B Screening During Pregnancy: A Study on Diagnostic Accuracy and Infection Control in Nigeria.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a critical public health issue in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), particularly among pregnant women in Nigeria. Routine screening using rapid diagnostic kits is common in antenatal care, yet the accuracy of these tests can vary. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalencwe of HBV among pregnant women who had previously undergone screening using rapid diagnostic kits at Obafemi Awolowo Teaching Hospital, Ilesa, Osun State, Nigeria, to assess the effectiveness of initial screening and identify any missed cases. A cross-sectional study was conducted, involving 263 pregnant women. Blood samples were tested for HBV markers (HBsAg, HBsAb, and HBcAb) using ELISA. Sociodemographic data and potential risk factors were also analysed. The study found that 7.6% of women were HBsAg positive, indicating active HBV infection, and 49.6% were susceptible to HBV. There was a significant association between higher education levels and HBV seropositivity. Employment status also correlated with HBV prevalence, with self-employed women showing higher seroprevalence. Additionally, a history of blood transfusions was linked to higher HBV seropositivity. The findings highlight the limitations of rapid diagnostic kits in detecting HBV and underscore the need for enhanced infection prevention and control measures, including confirmatory testing, robust vaccination programmes and safe delivery practices to reduce HBV transmission in high-burden regions like Nigeria.

Exploring speech-language pathologists' training and use of topical nasal anaesthesia during laryngeal endoscopy in the United States.

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) perform nasal laryngoscopy (LE) to assess voice and dysphagia-related disorders. The procedural aspects may include the use of topical nasal anaesthesia. To explore the practice patterns of American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)-certified SLPs use of anaesthesia during laryngeal endoscopy procedures in the United States METHODS & PROCEDURES: Data were collected via a brief computerized survey. A mixed methodology was employed. National representation across the United States was achieved. Limited pre-licensure training in LE with the majority of educational content embedded in a voice course (64.7%) and post-academic training via live continuing education (CE) (58.8-72.5%). Pharmacology training was notably lacking in pre- and post-licensure groups. A total of 50% of post-licensure training occurred via interprofessional (IP) mentorship with significant correlations (LE confidence and skills r = 0.64, < 0.001, anaesthesia r = 0.74, < 0.001). However, when looking at confidence of knowledge as compared with skills for the procedure, 83% of participants reported high levels of confidence in their knowledge, yet 31.25% reported high levels of confidence in the skills to perform LE. Conversely, when looking at confidence of anaesthesia knowledge (20.83%) as compared with skills, participants were less confident in their knowledge yet more confident in the skills (31.25%) to administer anaesthesia. Bandura's Social Cognitive Learning Theory of 1986 with standardized use of vicarious and self-regulatory capabilities based on prior experiences and the use of IP mentorship during pre- and post-licensure education for LE may be beneficial in training. Limitations and suggestions for future research are additionally reported. What is already known on this subject Laryngeal endoscopy is an advanced competency procedure completed by SLPs used in the evaluation and treatment of voice and swallowing disorders. Standards for competency lack consistency. Simultaneously, topical nasal anaesthesia may be a component of some exams, yet training and, subsequently, competency is inconsistent. Education and training for use of anaesthesia and navigating potential complications is not a required element of graduate training for SLPs. While SLPs may be independent practitioners of the laryngeal endoscopy procedure, it is unclear if they, or others, are administering the anaesthesia within an IP practice model. What this study adds to the existing knowledge Laryngeal endoscopy is comparatively new within the field of SLP. There are no studies investigating the knowledge, skills, and practice patterns of SLPs related to the use of anaesthetic agents during such procedures. This study adds to the literature regarding the practices of a sample of SLPs in the United States regarding use of topical anaesthesia during flexible laryngeal endoscopy, their training in topical anaesthesia and use/barriers of IP teams during flexible laryngeal endoscopy. Initial insight relative to the variability of training and practice is documented with potential learning needs for SLPs related to pharmacology, patient safety and IP practice. What are the practical and clinical implications of this work? This study offers considerations for SLP graduate and postgraduate training in the areas of topical nasal anaesthesia use and laryngeal endoscopy procedures. The results show variability in training for completion of these exams which may contribute to patient safety and outcomes. Promoting an IP approach to care, specifically roles and responsibilities related to use of anaesthesia, may further benefit those we serve.

Mentors' and supervisors' perspectives regarding newly qualified nurses' practice in digitally enabled workplaces: A qualitative study

Contemporary healthcare environments are becoming increasingly reliant on digital health technologies, presenting new opportunities and challenges for the nursing profession and nurses across practice settings and roles. Little is known about newly qualified Canadian nurses' experiences as they transition from academic settings to digitally enabled healthcare workplaces. To explore (1) perceptions of nurse managers, clinical preceptors and educators regarding newly qualified nurses' practice with digital health, and (2) identify strategies to enhance new nurses' practice with digital health technologies as they transition to the workplace. A descriptive qualitative design was used. Fifteen participants representing nurse managers, clinical preceptors, and educators from two Canadian provinces participated in semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was applied to analyze the data. Three themes were identified: 1) Onboarding upon joining the workplace, 2) Factors influencing new hires' practice with technology, and 3) Improving the transition experience to the workplace. Newly qualified nurses have strong digital skills and access to technology training; however, they also face challenges that affect their overall transition and practice. Having a broader understanding of digital health during formal education and in the workplace, mentorship and support from mentors and colleagues, user-friendly technologies, and stable nursing practice environments are key for safe practice and can facilitate the transitional experience and professional growth of new nurses. Clearly, digital health is here to stay and will further advance in the years to come. Considering global nursing shortages and the demand for a digitally capable workforce, it is imperative to address gaps and challenges that newly qualified nurses and all nurses face when providing care in digitally enabled healthcare environments.

Billy-Buddy against Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying has become a pervasive issue in the digital age, affecting individuals across demographics and causing significant psychological, emotional, and social harm. Despite various attempts to address this problem, existing solutions often fall short in providing comprehensive support, particularly in victim care, privacy preservation, and real-time intervention. This paper presents a holistic framework that integrates cutting-edge technologies such as Natural Language Processing (NLP), machine learning, and secure data handling to combat cyberbullying effectively. At the core of this framework is an empathetic AI-powered chatbot, “Billy,” designed to provide victims with real-time emotional support and actionable guidance. Billy uses advanced sentiment analysis to detect distress and offers tailored responses, helping victims navigate the emotional and procedural aspects of cyberbullying incidents. Additionally, the system facilitates anonymous reporting of perpetrators, ensuring victims’ privacy and safety through robust encryption and secure data management. The proposed framework includes a real-time cyberbullying detection mechanism capable of analyzing online interactions, identifying harmful content, and providing immediate feedback. Statistical tools analyze incident data to identify high-risk regions, enabling law enforcement to prioritize resources effectively. The system also incorporates educational initiatives to raise awareness about cyberbullying, promote safe online practices, and encourage proactive prevention.

The health risks associated with long-term fuel exposure on Saudi Arabian workers: Prevention strategies and best practices

Clinically, petroleum products contain harmful chemicals. The health impacts of fuel pollution have become a real environmental problem in Saudi Arabia, which largely rely on the petroleum industries. The aim of this review paper is to highlight the health risk associated with long-term exposure to fuel pollutions on the workers of Saudi Arabia, and to elaborate the prevention and protection strategies for safety practices. The review showed how the workers in Saudi Arabia (as a leading oil producer country) exposed to fuel during their work in its volatile form (volatile organic compound; VOC). This air pollution can cause adverse effect on their health (e.g., hematological disorders) as was reported in many places within Saudi Arabia. The review also reflected the needs for evaluation parameters to assess the level of exposure to these contaminants. Also, recent evidence was introduced about acute and long-term exposure to VOCs was introduced. The systemic health implications, included respiratory, immunological, hematological, dermatological, renal, reproductive, and central nervous system pathologies. The review also discusses the protection and safety strategy to promote the health status of the worker and also hammering on the personal protection devices.

Investigating students’ awareness of online privacy and cybersecurity: an empirical study with effective cybersecurity training framework

Purpose The main purpose of this study is to assess the level of cybersecurity and social media privacy awareness among college students in Bangladesh and propose a scalable cybersecurity training framework to promote safe online practices. Design/methodology/approach This study used a structured, printed questionnaire survey to collect data from the students of five renowned colleges from the southern part of Bangladesh. Stratified sampling technique was followed and a total of 353 data were collected. Collected data were analyzed using SPSS and Python programming languages. Findings The findings uncovered that most of the students possessed limited knowledge regarding fundamental cybersecurity concepts, though they were using different social media platforms and posting personal information frequently. The study found a significant positive relationship between students’ sharing of personal information on social media and becoming a victim of cybersecurity attacks. Contrarily, becoming a victim of a cybersecurity attack was negatively correlated with their ability to respond in case of cyberattacks. However, most of the students were interested in acquiring knowledge of cybersecurity. Based on these findings, the study proposed a game-based cybersecurity training framework for students named “CyberSAFE”. Originality/value Though several studies have proposed different cybersecurity frameworks in different contexts, this study, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, is the first attempt to explore college students’ cybersecurity knowledge and propose a game-based framework in a developing country setting.

Analysis of Patient Safety Culture to Improve Quality at Primaya Hospital Semarang

This study investigates patient safety culture in hospitals, highlighting its role in protecting patients from preventable harm through a culture of safety. Effective patient safety culture involves collaboration, open communication, and strong leadership support but faces challenges like resource limitations and inconsistent staff training. This study uses Primaya Hospital Semarang as a case example to examine how current safety practices align with quality improvement goals. A mixed-methods approach, including surveys and interviews with 169 staff members, used AHRQ’s safety culture survey to analyze teamwork, staffing, communication, and management support, identifying areas for targeted improvement. Key findings include that organizational learning and continuous improvement received the highest positive response (86.17%), followed by teamwork (83.43%) and communication about error (76.57%). However, staffing and work pace was notably weak, with only 48.08% positive responses. In interviews, a strong no-blame culture was emphasized for managing errors, although communication improvements were frequently suggested. Additionally, while routine error reporting was common, gaps in follow-up actions were noted, indicating areas for ongoing enhancement in patient safety practices.

Principles and Practice of Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety: J. Jimmy, A.R. Cox, V. Paudyal (eds).

Principles and Practice of Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety: J. Jimmy, A.R. Cox, V. Paudyal (eds).

Foreword: Progress in Construction Safety and Health.

The construction has always been a large economic sector that is very hazarous to work in. Over the past 40 years there have been major improvements in safety and health practices driven by increased research and more rapid adoption of best practices, not just in the developed countries but also in emerging economices. This special issue aims to showcase a specturm of perspectives from research to practice, about the current state of construction safety and health.

Assessment of health and safety knowledge among teachers of public schools

ABSTRACT Background: This study assessed the knowledge and safety practices of public-school teachers in the Emirate of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE). The education system in the UAE is relatively new and has been the subject of academic debate for the past decade. Safety awareness refers to perceptions and assessments of the abilities and responsibilities of employees to mitigate risks in the workplace. This study assessed safety related to educational institutions, the efficiency of the safety training process imparted by the stakeholders for the teachers, and the extent to which schools in Sharjah are applying and are committed to the safety standards, policies, and procedures. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used that encompassed public schools in the Emirate of Sharjah, UAE. Data were collected from 271 respondents using an online questionnaire prepared in English, Arabic, or Chinese. Results: The results revealed that more than 90% of the respondents had strong knowledge and awareness of health and safety in their workplace, specifically within the school community. Social demographic factors were not associated with this awareness, except for the perceived importance of occupational health and safety. Sex is a significant factor in awareness of the importance of health and safety of employees and students (P &lt; 0.019). Conclusion: We conclude that there is excellent awareness of occupational health and safety among teachers in the education sector in the Emirate of Sharjah, UAE. The results of this study emphasize the importance of safety policies, safety training, and safety committees to improving safety culture at educational institutions.

Using artificial intelligence to evaluate adherence to best practices in one anastomosis gastric bypass: first steps in a real-world setting.

Safety in one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) is judged by outcomes, but it seems reasonable to utilize best practices for safety, whose performance can be evaluated and therefore improved. We aimed to test an artificial intelligence-based model in real world for the evaluation of adherence to best practices in OAGB.Please check and confirm that the authors and their respective affiliations have been correctly identified and amend if necessary. A retrospective single-center study of 89 consecutive OAGB videos was captured and analyzed by an artificial intelligence platform (10/2020-12/2023). The platform currently provides assessment of four elements, including bougie insertion, full division of pouch, view of Treitz ligament, and leak test performed. Two bariatric surgeons viewed all videos, categorizing these elements into Yes/No adherence. Intra-rater and inter-rater agreements were computed. The estimates found in greatest consensus were used to determine the model's performance. Clinical data retrieval was performed. Videos included primary (71.9%) and conversion (28.1%) OAGB. Patients' age was 41.5 ± 13.6y and body mass index 42.0 ± 5.7kg/m2. Anastomosis width was 40mm (IQR, 30-45), and biliopancreatic limb length was 200cm (IQR, 180-200). Operative duration was 69.1min (IQR 55.3-97.4), mainly spent on gastric transection (26%) and anastomosis (45%). Surgeons' intra-rater overall agreements ranged 93-100% (kappa 0.57-1). Inter-rater overall agreements increased to 99-100% (kappa 0.95-1) in the second review, set as reference point to the model. The model's overall accuracy ranged 82-98%, sensitivity 91-94%, and positive predictive value 88-99%. Specificity ranged 17-92% and negative predictive value 20-68%. The model appears to have high accuracy, sensitivity, and positive predictive value for evaluating adherence to best practices for safety in OAGB. Considering the paucity of negative estimates in our study, more low-performance cases are needed to reliably define the model's specificity and negative predictive value. Adding more best practices, tested in multi-center studies will enable cross-border standardization of the procedure.

Competencies of nurses to participate in safe medication management practices for biologics: A scoping review.

To review the existing literature relating to nurse competence in safe medication management practices for biologics, identify evidence, and develop a competency framework to clarify the role of nurses in these practices. With the widespread use of biological agents in disease treatment, ensuring the safe and economical use of high-cost medicines is particularly important. Even though nurses are essential in patient care, detailed knowledge regarding their competence and role in the safe administration of biologics is lacking. A scoping review was performed following the methodology of Arksey and O'Malley and the PRISMA ScR guidelines. Electronic databases, including PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science, were searched using accepted keywords, and relevant articles were identified using inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total of 3,422 studies were retrieved, 24 of which were eligible for inclusion. The required competencies for nurses were summarized into six areas: clinical specialized knowledge, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, safe medication skills, health education skills, communication and coordination skills, and technological literacy. We provide insights into the competencies of nurses involved in the safe medication management of biologics. These competencies can be used to assess the actual competency level of nurses and facilitate the maximization of biological treatment goals and outcomes. This plays a vital role in optimizing the use of healthcare resources and demonstrating outcomes.

Evaluating the effectiveness of Virtual Reality (VR) technology in safety management and educational training: an empirical study on the application and feasibility of digital training systems

ABSTRACT This study addresses the limitations of traditional classroom or video-based safety training in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sector by integrating Virtual Reality (VR) to enhance engagement and learning outcomes. Through realistic VR simulations, learners can practice recognizing hazards and making critical decisions without exposure to actual risks. The research applies the Identification, Reflection, Analysis, and Evaluation (IRAE) model and the Hedonic-Motivation System Adoption Model (HMSAM) to examine both challenges and acceptance of VR in educational contexts. By conducting pre- and post-test analyses with SPSS, this study evaluates changes in safety knowledge and awareness, while a five-point Likert scale captures student perceptions of VR's motivational impact. Findings indicate that VR-based instructional methods promote active learning, improve safety awareness, and increase student involvement compared to conventional approaches. These results offer valuable insights for evolving safety management education, shaping future strategies for digital technology adoption, and ultimately raising the standard of safety practices in the AEC industry.

Enhancing Organizational Productivity through Effective Occupational Health and Safety Practices: Insights from the Beverage Manufacturing Unit of Abdul Monem Ltd.

The main objective of this research was to identify the critical role of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) practices in driving organizational productivity, with focusing on Abdul Monem Ltd. Beverage Unit (AMLBU), a Coca-Cola manufacturing plant in Cumilla,, Bangladesh. Established in 1986, the plant operates across four production lines, producing a range of carbonated and non-carbonated beverages. With a workforce of over 800 employees, including permanent, daily, and sales staff, the facility faces unique OHS challenges common to beverage manufacturing, such as handling hazardous materials, operating heavy machinery, and managing ergonomic risks. The research methodology integrates both qualitative and quantitative approaches combining random and judgmental sampling techniques to analyze 100 observations, representing both diverse and critical incidents. Data were collected through direct observation, surveys, and reviews of internal documents, such as safety reports and manuals, supplemented by relevant industry publications.Findings reveal a strong correlation between effective OHS practices and enhanced productivity. Key measures, such as ergonomic interventions, compliance with safety protocols, and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), significantly reduce workplace accidents and absenteeism while fostering employee efficiency and well-being. Key findings reveal effective OHS programs—such as ergonomic interventions, rigorous safety protocols, and the provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)—significantly enhance productivity by reducing workplace accidents, absenteeism, and operational disruptions. This research also finds out a strong correlation between effective OHS measures and enhanced organizational performance. Employees working in environments that prioritize safety and health demonstrate higher morale, reduced absenteeism, and increased productivity. Conversely, unsafe practices and inadequate safety protocols often lead to accidents, injuries, and diminished workforce efficiency. This research contributes to the growing discourse on the economic and social benefits of OHS programs, offering valuable insights for industry leaders, policymakers, and academics. It advocates for a paradigm shift where workplace safety is viewed not merely as a regulatory requirement but as a strategic investment in organizational success.This study serves as a reference for future research and decision-making in the beverage manufacturing sector and beyond. DOI: https://doi.org/10.52783/pst.1459

Prosedur Pelaksanaan Pelatihan Tentang Keselamatan Kerja Dan Lingkungan Di Telkom Witel Denpasar

Field Work Practice (PKL) has been carried out at Telkom Witel Denpasar from June 10 to August 9, 2024. This report discusses the procedures for implementing training on occupational safety and the environment at Telkom Witel Denpasar. Procedures related to occupational safety and the environment have been prepared but have not been realized in detail. With the procedures and understanding directly related to emergency response not yet being realized, training is needed to increase employee awareness and comply with existing regulations. The main objective of this activity is to provide understanding and provide knowledge about emergency response procedures related to occupational safety and the environment. With these problems, surveys and interviews were conducted in the field. Then, there is a method of implementation, namely conducting training related to occupational safety and the environment to increase awareness and practice of occupational safety and environmental management in the company. The training that has been carried out includes the use of personal protective equipment, fire and emergency evacuation simulations, emergency response procedures, handling hazardous materials, and waste management. The results of the implementation of this training show a significant increase in employee awareness, understanding, knowledge and the realization of established procedures which are expected to reduce the number of work accidents, reduce negative impacts on the environment and ensure compliance with applicable regulations.

Analysis of geological characteristics and potential factors of formation damage in coalbed methane reservoir in Northern Qinshui basin

Given the suboptimal physical properties and distinctive geological conditions of deep coalbed methane reservoirs, any reservoir damage that occurs becomes irreversible. Consequently, the protection of these deep coalbed methane reservoirs is of paramount importance. This study employs experimental techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and micro-CT imaging to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the pore structure, mineral composition, fluid characteristics, and wettability of coal seams 3# and 15# in the northern Qinshui Basin of China. The objective is to elucidate the types of reservoir damage induced by fracturing fluid intrusion along with potential contributing factors. This research is critical for ensuring safe drilling practices, effective gas injection, and efficient development strategies for coalbed methane reservoirs. The findings indicate that the mineral composition of the coal rock consists of 18.52% clay minerals, 34% quartz, and 8.98% calcite. Furthermore, hydrophilicity and natural fractures within the coal rock may lead to water-sensitivity, velocity- sensitivity, alkali- sensitivity, and acid- sensitivity damages to the coalbed methane reservoir. There exists good compatibility between fracturing fluids and both coal rock as well as formation water. The fine particles generated from hydraulic fracturing are prone to transport through the coal seam while obstructing pore throats. Thus exhibiting pronounced velocity sensitivity characteristics in this reservoir type. Coal rock demonstrates pronounced stress sensitivity. As the effective stress escalates from 2 MPa to 10 MPa, there is a marked decrease in the permeability of coal rock. With increasing effective stress, the pore structure and natural fractures within the coal rock are compressed more tightly, resulting in a diminished permeability of the coal rock. When exposed to fracturing fluid saturation, not only does the volume of these particles expand but they can also cause blockages that result in up to a 60% reduction in fracture flow capacity. These insights are vital for optimizing fracturing designs aimed at protecting reservoir integrity.

Neonatal Shock: Current Dilemmas and Future Research Avenues

Neonatal shock presents a complex clinical challenge and is one of the leading causes of mortality. Traditionally, neonatal shock is equated to hypotension, and therapeutics are often initiated based on low blood pressure (BP) values alone. This fails to address the underlying goal of optimizing the tissue perfusion resulting in both over- and under-treatment of neonatal shock. Also, what defines a normal BP in neonates is still a contentious topic. Further, the most appropriate way of measuring BP in neonates with shock is still debated. Shock secondary to transient circulatory instability and patent ductus arteriosus, conditions that are unique to preterm neonates, have not been researched adequately. Treatment of myocardial dysfunction secondary to perinatal asphyxia, a leading cause of neonatal mortality, is still a conundrum. Quite similarly, there are only a handful of controlled trials evaluating therapeutics in some of the other commonly encountered conditions, namely, septic shock and hypoperfusion secondary to pulmonary hypertension. Even the universally practiced intervention of volume expansion with crystalloid boluses in shock is not backed by high-certainty evidence in neonates. Though the diagnostic modalities of functional echocardiography and near-infrared spectroscopy have aided greatly in the management of neonatal shock in recent years, these have not been proven to be associated with improved critical clinical outcomes such as mortality and major brain injury. To conclude, neonatologists often rely on limited evidence, mostly anecdotal, when treating neonatal shock. This review critically examines the current evidence with respect to various aspects of neonatal shock with an objective to identify the lacunae in the literature that may fuel future research, eventually paving the way to efficacious, safe and evidence-based clinical practice.

Influence of Psychological Safety and Safety Climate Perceptions on Nurses’ Infection Prevention and Occupational Safety Practices and Environment

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to describe and examine the relationships among elements of infection prevention practices, the care environment, psychological safety, and safety climate in adult medical surgical units in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Nurses in adult inpatient medical surgical units in the northeast were surveyed electronically. Each self-rated their infection prevention practices and elements of the care environment in their primary work unit. They were also asked to rate a series of questions regarding how psychologically safe they felt on their units as well as the overall patient safety climate. Results: A total of 259 nurses responded (52% response rate) to the survey. Overall psychological safety was rated neutrally among respondents, with a rating of 3.5 (1 being the lowest and 5 being the highest). Respondents reported better ratings of the safety climate on their unit (4.0) but also identified areas for improvement. Eight of twelve infection prevention practices were correlated with higher safety climate scores and ten were correlated with higher psychological safety scores. Nine of ten environmental factors were correlated with higher safety climate and higher psychological safety scores. Conclusions: Both psychological safety and patient safety climate are related to nurse self-ratings of performance of infection prevention practices. Similarly, the care environment nurses work in has important implications for psychological safety and patient safety. It is essential for nursing leadership to act as a steward in these areas to build a higher quality care environment for nurses and patients alike.

Survey of legislative frameworks and national recommendations governing paediatric maintenance haemodialysis in Europe.

The application of international recommendations for paediatric maintenance haemodialysis (HD) could be strengthened by national laws or written recommendations. Our aim was therefore to describe the national rules governing paediatric maintenance HD in European countries. A national representative, approved by the president of each paediatric nephrology society, was contacted in all 42 European countries to complete two online questionnaires. Answers were received from 36 countries. The population served by HD centres varies from 83,000 to 1,197,000 residents below 18 years of age and the estimated mean number of children on HD per centre from 0.2 to 13.5. The lowest age at which a child can be dialysed in an adult centre varies from 0 to 18 years. Laws or written national recommendations specifying: this age, the need for a paediatrician as part of medical team in mixed adult-paediatric centres, the minimum number of doctors per centre and the number of patients per nurse or nurse's aide required during sessions exist in only 25, 22, 22, 44 and 8% of the countries, respectively. Similarly, dietitians, social workers, school service, psychologists and play specialists/youth workers are required by law or written national recommendations in 36, 28, 36, 31 and 14% of countries, respectively. Laws or written national recommendations for paediatric maintenance HD are rare in European countries and very heterogeneous when they exist. This calls for discussion among paediatric and adult nephrologists and health authorities on the organisation of safe and effective paediatric HD practices.

CYBERCRIME IN THE DIGITAL ERA: IMPACTS, AWARENESS, AND STRATEGIC SOLUTIONS FOR A SECURE FUTURE

Cybercrime has emerged as a critical challenge in the digital age impacting individuals, organizations and governments across the globe. With the rapid expansion of digital technologies and the internet, cybercriminals exploit system vulnerabilities causing significant financial, psychological and reputational damage. This paper explores the multifaceted impacts of cybercrime on society ranging from personal data breaches and identity theft to large-scale corporate and governmental attacks that jeopardize economic stability and national security. It further delves into the awareness levels among individuals and organizations, highlighting the gaps that make them susceptible to cyber threats. The study underscores the pressing need for a comprehensive legal framework tailored to the evolving nature of cybercrime ensuring swift and effective justice delivery. Technological advancements in cybersecurity such as artificial intelligence and machine learning are emphasized as crucial tools to pre-empt and mitigate these threats. Additionally, the paper advocates for widespread educational initiatives to improve digital literacy focusing on preventive measures and safe online practices. The research aims to contribute to a safer digital environment by addressing these dimensions and fostering resilience and trust in the ever-connected global community.