Razi Hospital Research Articles

Predictors of recurrent ischemic stroke: A retrospective cohort study

Introduction: Cerebrovascular events are one of the most common causes of disability and the third leading cause of death in developed countries. Herein, we aimed to investigate the potential underlying causes of recurrent ischemic stroke. Methods: This study was a retrospective cohort study conducted in Razi Hospital, Tabriz, Iran between March 2018 and September 2020. Patients with the diagnosis of recurrent ischemic stroke during the study period were eligible to be included. Baseline characteristics and data on the recurrence were collected using chart reviews. Also, binary logistic regression was used to examine the factors related to recurrence. Results: Among one hundred participants with a mean age of 68.88 years, 59% were male. Hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, smoking, and hyperlipidemia were identified in 79%, 42%, 24%, 15%, and 15%, respectively. The average recurrence time of stroke was about 2.52 years. According to our findings, a significant relationship between the history of heart diseases and ischemic stroke recurrence was observed (risk ratio: 0.10: 95% confidence interval: 0.03-0.33). Conclusion: We found no significant association between ischemic stroke recurrence and underlying diseases except for heart diseases. Further large-scale observational studies and meta-analyses are recommended to evaluate the possible association.

Evaluating the Mortality Risk Factors Among COVID-19 Patients with Diabetes Mellitus

Background: Management of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients with underlying disorders is a challenging issue at any time. Objectives: The present survey investigated the mortality rate of COVID-19 patients with various underlying disorders. Methods: In the present cross-sectional study, patients with COVID-19 who were referred to the Razi Hospital in Ahvaz from Feb 2020 to Oct 2020 were evaluated. Non-probability sampling method was used for sample collection. All documented information, including length of hospitalization, comorbidities, survival, and clinical and laboratory findings, were collected. Results: In the present study, 500 diabetic patients with COVID-19 infection were included. The mean age of participants was 59.61 ± 14.88 years old. Of the subjects, 192 (38.4%) were female and 308 (61.6%) were male. DM solely was the most frequent underlying disorder (46.2%), followed by co-occurrence of DM and hypertension (HTN) (43%). The mortality rate was 15% and was more frequent in patients with simultaneous DM and HTN (66%) (P-value < 0.001). Also, the mortality rate was significantly higher in males than females (72% vs 28%) (P-value = 0.042). Further analysis indicated that the mean of white blood cells (WBC), neutrophil count, blood urea nitrogen, glucose, creatinine, and aspartate aminotransferase were significantly higher in expired patients (P-value < 0.05). Post Hoc analysis showed the highest pulse rate (PR) and respiratory rate (RR) in patients with DM, HTN, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (P-value < 0.001). Conclusions: The present investigation showed that comorbidities significantly increase the COVID-19 mortality rate. Our findings revealed that more attention is required for COVID-19 patients with HTN and DM. Due to discrepancies with recent investigations, further studies with more follow-up are recommended.

The Impact of Antibiotic Prophylaxis with Cefazolin, and Ceftizoxime Along with Aminoglycosides on Postoperative Complications, Hospitalization, and Returning to Normal Life for Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy, a Prospective Cross-Sectional Study

Background: This study investigated the efficacy of first-generation cephalosporin (cefazolin) and third-generation cephalosporin (ceftizoxime) as prophylactic antibiotics in patients undergoing percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) surgery. Objectives: The study also examined the incidence of postoperative complications, hospitalization duration, and time to return to normal life. Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study included patients (≥ 20 years) who underwent PCNL surgery at Razi, Golsar, and Pars Hospitals from January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2022. Patients were divided into two groups, receiving 1 mg/kg of either first-generation (cefazolin) or third-generation (ceftizoxime) cephalosporin intravenously, 30 minutes before surgery. The incidence of postoperative complications, hospitalization duration, and return to normal life were compared based on the type of prophylactic antibiotic. Risk factors were evaluated using chi-squared tests followed by multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results: The ceftizoxime group showed significantly lower rates of overall complications (13.0% vs. 31.4%) and postoperative fever (2.8% vs. 15.0%) compared to the cefazolin group. The ceftizoxime group also had a significantly shorter hospitalization duration (1.31 ± 1.18 days) compared to the cefazolin group (4.03 ± 1.57 days) (P = 0.000). Additionally, the ceftizoxime group had a significantly faster return to normal life (5.97 ± 3.37 days) compared to the cefazolin group (8.15 ± 2.93 days) (P = 0.001). Conclusions: The third-generation prophylactic cephalosporin (ceftizoxime) was more effective than the first-generation (cefazolin) in reducing postoperative fever rates, shortening hospitalization duration, and expediting the return to normal life for patients.

Outcomes of Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease Hospitalized with COVID-19 in Ahvaz Razi Hospital from February 2020 to May 2021

Background: End-stage renal disease patients on maintenance hemodialysis (ESRD-HD) are at very high risk for COVID-19 infections due to their older age and comorbidities such as diabetes and hypertension. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the outcomes of COVID-19 in ESRD-HD patients. Methods: This was a retrospective study conducted on ESRD-HD patients aged 18 years and older who were referred to Razi Hospitals in Ahvaz from February 2020 to May 2021 for hemodialysis and diagnosed with COVID-19. Patient information was extracted retrospectively from their medical records. Results: A total of 180 patients were examined. The average age of the patients was 61.5 years, and 118 (65.6%) were men. The most common underlying condition was hypertension (81.1%). The most prevalent clinical symptom was shortness of breath (70.6%), followed by cough (47.8%). Seventy-five patients (41.66%) were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), with an average stay of 5 days. Hypertension and ischemic heart disease were significantly more common among patients admitted to the ICU (P = 0.008 and 0.015, respectively). In-hospital mortality was 32.8%. Advanced age, fever, shortness of breath, cough, and the need for a ventilator were significant predictors of mortality in hospitalized ESRD patients with COVID-19 (P = 0.016, 0.033, 0.001, 0.012, and 0.011, respectively). Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that ESRD-HD patients with COVID-19 are at high risk for ICU admission and mortality. Advanced age and clinical symptoms such as fever, shortness of breath, cough, and the need for a ventilator significantly predict in-hospital mortality in these patients.

Neurofilaments light chains as a diagnostic and predictive biomarker for Tunisian Multiple Sclerosis patients

BackgroundMultiple Sclerosis (MS) course was shown to be more severe among North Africans compared to Caucasians. Validation of prognostic biomarkers of disease activity and severity is a priority in our practice. ObjectiveWe aimed to investigate the association between baseline cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum NfL (sNFL) levels and disease activity and disability accrual in a cohort of Tunisian patients with MS. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted, in the department of Neurology of Razi Hospital, including patients diagnosed with MS. Patient's data were retrieved from our local MS database. Blood and CSF sampling were performed at the first visit. sNFL levels were measured using the Enzyme-Linked Immuno-Sorbent Assay (ELISA) sandwich technique. ResultsThree hundred MS patients were enrolled (sex-ratio= 3.05; mean age at MS onset=28.83 years+9.55, mean MS course = 10.21 years+8.96). MS phenotype was predominately relapsing (73%). CSF NfL levels were significantly correlated to the serum ones. NfL concentrations were significantly associated with MS activity (p = 0.012), disease progression (p = 0.001), and higher Multiple Sclerosis Severity Scores (MSSS) (p = 0.0017, r = 0.28). ConclusionsThese results support the value of NfL as a sensitive and clinically meaningful CSF and blood biomarker to evaluate MS activity and outcomes among Tunisian MS patients.

Evaluation of cardiac biomarkers among dead and alive COVID-19 patients in Southwest Iran.

The need to understand the global burden of heart failure following the pandemic has arisen as a result of an increase in papers that support cardiac involvement in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Therefore, the current study aims to provide a more thorough explanation of the function and use of cardiac biomarkers in dead and alive COVID-19 patients. All patients who were referred and admitted to Razi Hospital, Ahvaz, Iran, from March 2020 to March 2021 with a diagnosis of COVID-19 were included in this study. During the study period, 753 patients were hospitalized with a diagnosis of COVID-19. In total, 157 cases died from the disease (case fatality rate: 20.84%). Pre-existing cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs) were more frequent in dead cases (14% vs. 6.4%). It was observed that atrial fibrillation was normal in most of the alive cases in comparison to dead patients (P value = 0.014). Moreover, it was seen that CRP, IL-6, and procalcitonin were increased in dead patients. Also, an association was found between ejection fraction (EF) value and death rate (P value = 0.035). The higher frequency of positive troponin occurring in the dead group suggested a possible adverse effect on the mortality rate (22.3% vs. 16.4%). Adults with COVID-19 commonly have cardiac manifestations, including symptoms of myocardial damage. In light of the recognized utility of troponin, ejection fraction, procalcitonin, IL-6, and CRP in COVID-19 patients with suspected myocardial damage, we should develop a safe and precise diagnostic algorithm that may contain patients' clinical histories and additional variables that may facilitate the prediction of myopericarditis.

Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma: Comparison of high-frequency ultrasound and pathology.

Skin neoplasms, particularly basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), are prevalent forms of skin malignancies. To enhance accurate diagnosis, non-invasive techniques including high-frequency ultrasound (HFUS) are crucial. HFUS offers deeper penetration compared to reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM), and optical coherence tomography (OCT), making it valuable for examining skin structures. The aim of this study was to investigate and diagnose localized manifestation of BCC and SCC with HFUS and compare it with pathology results in patients referred to Razi Hospital, Tehran, Iran. This study included patients diagnosed with BCC and SCC, with clinical and pathological confirmation, attending the oncology clinic of Razi Hospital, Tehran, Iran, from 2022 to 2023. Exclusion criteria comprised metastatic and recurrent cases, patients who underwent treatment or surgery, and tumors located in anatomically challenging areas. HFUS with a 20MHz probe and Doppler ultrasound were employed to examine the skin. Tumors were subsequently excised, fixed in formalin, and sent for pathological assessment. Ultrasound findings were compared with pathology results. The study assessed 40 patients, with half diagnosed with SCC and the other half with BCC. The majority of SCC patients were male (80%), while BCC patients were relatively evenly divided between males (65%) and females (35%). The mean age was 59.15±11.9 years for SCC and 63.4±8.9 years for BCC. Cheeks (20%) and lips (35%) were the most common sampling sites for BCC and SCC, respectively. The correlation coefficients for tumor size and depth between ultrasound and pathology were 0.981 and 0.912, respectively, indicating a high level of agreement between the two methods. In BCC patients, there was complete agreement between sonographic loco-regional extension and pathology findings. However, some discordance (30%) was observed in SCC cases. The study demonstrated a strong correlation between ultrasound and pathology in accurately detecting the depth and extent of the tumor. However, due to the inclusion of only patients with positive pathology, it is not appropriate to evaluate the diagnostic test values and compare them with pathology results. Therefore, it is highly recommended to carry out additional studies with larger sample sizes to further validate these findings.

Hailey-Hailey Disease: Case Series and Review of Systemic Medications.

Hailey-Hailey disease (HHD) is a rare inherited blistering skin disorder characterized by a chronic relapsing course. While it does not pose a serious threat to the patient's health, the quality of life can change. Unfortunately, there is currently no standard treatment for this condition. In this observational retrospective cohort study, our aim was to discover the demographic characteristics and treatment strategies for managing HHD. In this retrospective cohort study, we documented the demographic, clinical, and histopathological characteristics beside various treatment employed options of patients diagnosed with HHD at Razi Hospital over the past 14 years. A total of 32 patients with HHD were enrolled in the study (15 male and 17 female). The mean age of patients was 50.41 ± 13.15 (22-77) years. The average age of disease onset was 37.31 ± 11.88 (15-60) years. Among the participants, 16 individuals (50%) affirm a positive family history of some kind of pemphigoid blisters. The most common site of disease activity was the inguinal area, observed in 14 patients (33.33%). Histopathological examination discovered the existence of suprabasal acantholysis in all of the specimens. Worthily, direct immunofluorescence analysis showed negative results in all skin biopsies. All patients received topical steroids and either topical or systemic antimicrobial agents. In cases of flares, systemic steroids were the most popular and favorable treatment choice during flares. Indeed, Hailey-Hailey disease, characterized by its chronic inflammatory and rare nature with a relapsing and remitting course, poses a significant challenge for dermatologists. The treatment of HHD has been less than satisfactory and it often presents a challenge and could be misdiagnosed. Among the available treatment options, topical steroids and antimicrobial agents are the most administered therapies.

Prevalence of Multiple Sclerosis in Vitiligo Patients and Their First-Degree Relatives: Two Diseases with Similarities in Pathogenesis and Treatment.

Vitiligo is a common pigmentation disorder manifested by white macules and patches. It is accompanied by some autoimmune and neurological diseases. Recently, it has been suggested that multiple sclerosis (MS) is more common in vitiligo patients and that they have a higher risk of developing MS during their lifetime. In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of MS in patients with vitiligo and their first-degree relatives and compare it with the prevalence in the population. In this cross-sectional study, data were consecutively collected from patients referred to Razi Hospital from March 2020 to December 2021. Seven hundred and nine patients with vitiligo participated in this study, and 15 reported a history of MS (2.12%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.06%-3.17%). This rate was significantly higher than the prevalence of MS in the average population of Tehran (P < 0.001). Of the 2886 first-degree relatives of the patients, 10 had MS (0.35%, 95%CI 0.13&-0.56%), which was higher than the prevalence of MS, yet not statistically significant. A significant association between vitiligo and MS was observed, which should be of clinical and therapeutic importance. However, the prevalence of MS in first-degree relatives of vitiligo patients was higher than the average rate, yet not statistically significant.

The Relationship between Stigma and Medication Adherence in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Hospitalized in Razi Hospital in Rasht City

The Relationship between Stigma and Medication Adherence in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Hospitalized in Razi Hospital in Rasht City

Molecular Diagnosis of Chlamydia trachomatis in Women with Frequent Abortions

Background: Chlamydia trachomatis is the commonest cause of bacterial sexually transmitted infections. This research aimed at scrutinizing the Chlamydia trachomatis screening tests with vaginal samples and at investigating the correlation between Chlamydia trachomatis infection and the abortion incidence. Methods: The current Cross sectional study was done at gynecology clinic of Razi Hospital in Chalus, Iran between August 2017 and January 2018. Fifty vaginal swabs were collected and detecting C. trachomatis DNA was done. Chi-square test and Independent t-test compared the variables. P &lt;0.001 was significant Results: The total C. trachomatis infection prevalence was 5(10%) in endocervical swabs. A significant difference was found between duration of sexual activity and Chlamydia infection. No significant difference was detected between detection of Chlamydia l and abnormal vaginal discharged. Conclusion: Screening for Chlamydia trachomatis infection of the women experiencing a miscarriage should be done and, if positive, they should be treated to inhibit recurrent miscarriages.

The Association between Anthropometric Indicators and Colorectal Polyps and Diverticulosis

Abstract Introduction Colonic polyps and diverticulosis are common colon findings on colonoscopy. One of the risk factors of colorectal polyps and diverticulosis is the anthropometric index. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the association between the anthropometric index and colorectal findings. Methods In this cross-sectional study, we included 536 patients referred to Razi Hospital, Rasht, Iran, in 2023 for colonoscopy evaluation. Demographical data, clinical characteristics, and colonoscopy findings were recorded for further analysis. All data were analyzed using SPSS.16 by considering a significant level &lt; 0.05 Results The results showed that 35.4% of the patients had polyps, with the majority having a single polyp. The patient's mean age was 55.94 ± 13.33 years; most were females (54.1%). The most common type of polyp was pedunculated, and most were located in the sigmoid colon. The prevalence of diverticular was 11.4%, most of which were also located in the sigmoid colon. Obesity was significantly associated with an increased risk of polyps, while overweight individuals had a higher risk of diverticula (P &lt; 0.05). Age, rural residence, and low physical activity level were identified as factors associated with an increased risk of polyps and diverticula. Conclusion The findings suggest that obesity and overweight are risk factors for polyps and diverticula, respectively. Further research is warranted to explore additional factors and develop preventive strategies for colorectal diseases. These results support the need for preventive strategies and screening programs to reduce the risk of future colorectal lesions.

The Effect of Antibiotic Therapy Before Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy on the Frequency of Postoperative Complications: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is commonly used in the treatment of large renal stones. Postoperative infections are a common consequence of these procedures. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of antibiotic therapy before PCNL on the possibility of developing fever and common complications after the procedure. Methods: We carried out a retrospective cross-sectional study involving 708 patients who had undergone PCNL at Razi Hospital in Rasht, covering the period from 2012 to 2022. Patients were allocated into two groups: Group 1 included 454 patients who had received antibiotic therapy, and group 2 included 254 patients who had not received pre-operative antibiotic therapy. Results: In group 1, there were 241 males (53.1%) and 213 females (46.9%), while in group 2, there were 138 males (54.3%) and 116 females (45.7%). In group 1, 82.7% of patients treated with antibiotics had a negative culture. The hospitalization time was 4.00 ± 1.75 days for group 1 and 2.26 ± 1.56 days for group 2. Fever was observed in 39 patients (11.2%) in group 1. Sepsis was seen in only one patient (0.3%) in group 1. There is a significant relationship between total hospitalization time (P = 0.000), hospitalization after the operation (P = 0.000), hypertension (P = 0.009), ischemic heart disease (P = 0.050), history of shock wave lithotripsy (P = 0.003), hydronephrosis (P = 0.000), age (P = 0.004), and hemoglobin levels (P = 0.000) with antibiotic therapy. Conclusions: Surgeon overprescription of antibiotics may lead to resistance, complicating outcomes and extending hospital stays after PCNL. Some complications remain unaffected by antibiotic therapy due to surgical experience.

Safety of using laser for hair removal in patients with skin diseases: a retrospective study

ABSTRACT Laser hair removal is a commonly used method in dermatology which is based on selective thermolysis and utilizes the appropriate wavelength, pulse width, and energy density to damage hair follicles. Given the prevalence of skin diseases such as psoriasis, dermatitis, and vitiligo, and the increasing popularity of laser hair removal, the aim of this study was to investigate the safety of laser hair removal in individuals with skin diseases. This retrospective study was conducted at the laser department of Razi Hospital on 99 patients who underwent laser hair removal. The exacerbation of disease after laser therapy was significantly associated with active skin disease (p = .021) and laser treatment at the site of the disease (p < .001). The incidence of Koebner phenomenon was significantly associated with age (p = .017) and the number of sessions with the ND-YAG device (p = .034). It is crucial to exercise caution when performing laser treatment on individuals with active skin disease and to avoid treating the affected area were possible. If necessary, it is recommended to delay laser treatment until the disease is under control for patients with active skin disease or those who wish to receive laser treatment at the site of the disease.

Evaluation of Lung Function Tests in the Follow-up of COVID-19 Patients Discharged From Razi Hospital in Rasht, Iran

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has been a significant concern for the global health community since its onset. This study aimed to evaluate lung function tests in the follow-up of COVID-19 patients discharged from Razi Hospital in Rasht, Iran, in 2020. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study evaluated lung functional tests, including spirometry and the six-minute walking test (6MWT), in the follow-up of 239 hospitalized COVID-19 cases. All demographical and clinical data, along with the lung performance test results of the patients, were recorded, and statistical data were analyzed using SPSS, version 24. Results: The mean age of the patients was 51.69±13.98 years, and most of them were females. About 60.25% of patients had underlying diseases. The frequency of positive 6 MWT tests during the first three, six, and nine months after discharge was 7.96%, 8.70%, and 14.29%, respectively. In the first trimester after discharge, the 6MWT test was more positive among females. In addition, forced expiratory volume (FEV1)/forced vital capacity (FVC) showed a significant positive relationship with diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and heart rate (HR). After six months, positive 6MWT results were significantly associated with older ages and underlying diseases. The amount of FVC was positively associated with DBP, distance traveled in the 6MWT test, and HR, but it was negatively related to age. Conclusion: The findings revealed that older age, female gender, and underlying diseases were associated with positive 6MWT results, decreased pulmonary function, and higher DBP and HR.

A randomized clinical trial investigating the impact of magnesium supplementation on clinical and biochemical measures in COVID-19 patients

BackgroundThis study sought to examine the impact of magnesium supplementation on clinical outcomes and biochemical factors among hospitalized patients with COVID-19.MethodsThis double-blind, randomized clinical trial was conducted at Razi Hospital, Ahvaz, Iran, between September 2021 and March 2022. Participants aged 18–70 years with moderate disease severity were enrolled. Magnesium supplementation (300 mg daily) was administered to the intervention group, while the control group received a placebo. Clinical outcomes, including the need for oxygen therapy, oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, fever, hs-CRP and TNF-α levels, as well as quality of life and mental health, were assessed. Blood samples were collected to measure biochemical variables.ResultsThe main result was the count of individuals requiring oxygen therapy. Additional outcomes comprised of oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, fever, hs-CRP and TNF-α levels, as well as quality of life and mental health. Out of 64 participants, 60 completed the study. The results showed that magnesium supplementation significantly reduced the number of patients requiring oxygen therapy (9 vs. 14; P < 0.001). Moreover, the magnesium group demonstrated improved oxygen saturation compared to the control group (4.55 ± 2.35 vs. 1.8 ± 1.67; P < 0.001). Furthermore, we observed a noteworthy enhancement in the quality of life and depression score in the magnesium group. No significant differences were observed in respiratory rate, fever, hs-CRP, and TNF-α levels (P > 0.05).ConclusionThe findings suggest that magnesium supplementation may have beneficial effects on clinical outcomes and arterial oxygen saturation in COVID-19 patients. More investigation is necessary to delve into its potential mechanisms and long-term effects on patient outcomes.Trial registrationThis study is registered on Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) under identifier IRCT20210413050957N1. (The registration date: May 1, 2021).

Clozapine and the Risk of Severe COVID-19: A Retrospective Cohort Study

IntroductionClozapine is the standard treatment for managing treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS). However, concerns arise due to potential hematologic side effects, such as agranulocytosis, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.ObjectivesThis study aims to investigate the association between clozapine treatment and an increased risk of severe COVID-19 infection in patients with TRS.MethodsA retrospective study reviewed clinical records of forensic patients with TRS from 2020 to 2022 at Razi Hospital’s forensic psychiatry department in Tunisia. Twenty-five patients, including 18 on clozapine treatment, were included.Results All patients were male, with an average age of 39.7 years. Twenty-three patients received at least one vaccine dose. Twenty-two patients contracted COVID-19. Among those treated with clozapine, two required intensive care unit admission and oxygen therapy without intubation. Clozapine treatment remained uninterrupted, with no dose escalation during infection episodes. Lymphopenia was the most commonly reported hematologic abnormality.ConclusionsWhile there may be an association between clozapine use and an increased risk of COVID-19 infection, no clear correlation with infection severity and antipsychotic treatment was established in this study. Further research is needed to explore this potential association comprehensively.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

An underestimated link: a study of eating disorders in patients followed for schizophrenia

Introduction Schizophrenia is a debilitating mental illness that can cause significant disruptions in a person’s life, leading to difficulty with thinking, emotions, and behaviors. While the symptoms of schizophrenia are well-known and extensively studied, comorbidities like eating disorders are often overlooked and undertreated, despite their prevalence in patients with schizophrenia.Objectivesdetermine the different eating attitudes among schizophrenic patients and establish the link between eating attitudes, age, weight status, and psychotropic medication.MethodsThis is a cross-sectional and descriptive study that took place from September to November 2022 among patients who consulted the post-care consultations of Psychiatry D service at Razi Hospital, Tunisia. We included patients who had been followed for at least one year for schizophrenia according to the diagnostic criteria of DSM-V and who had not relapsed for at least 2 months. The collection of sociodemographic and clinical data was done retrospectively by referring to the patients’ clinical records. Anthropometric measurements (weight, height, waist circumference, etc.) were recorded for each participant at the end of the interview. The Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ) was used to analyze eating attitudes.Results According to our results among 30 patients followed for schizophrenia, 74% were men with a mean age of 45 years (3.8). Sixty percent of the participants had a BMI &lt;18.5, 35% had a BMI between 18.5 and 25, and the rest had a BMI greater than 25. on the therapeutic level, 12 patients were on olanzapine, 15 patients were on risperidone and the rest were on haloperidol. The TFEQ score shows that uncontrolled eating was the most prevalent attitude in our population. A statistically positive association was found between uncontrolled eating and the use of olanzapine (p&lt;0.05).ConclusionsOur study contributes to draw the attention of mental health professionals to the screening of eating disorders in patients followed for long term mental disorders and insists on multidisciplinary management to ensure a better quality of life for patients.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Exploring psychological distress among psychiatric nurses in Tunisia

IntroductionNurses working in psychiatric departments regularly encounter intricate, stress-inducing, and emotionally challenging situations. The mental well-being of these nurses directly influences the quality of care they deliver.ObjectivesTo assess the prevalence of psychological distress among psychiatric nurses and to identify the socio-demographic and clinical factors associated with it.MethodsCross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study conducted over the course of one month from October 11th to November 8th 2023. Participants included were psychiatric nurses working in Razi Hospital, Tunisia. We collected data using pre-established questionnaire which included socio-demographic and clinical data of the participants. The assessment of psychological distress was conducted using the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), validated in Arabic. Statistical analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) in its 25th versionResultsWe collected data from 55 nurses working in Razi psychiatry hospital during the time of the study. Among them, 80% (n=44) were female. Their median age was 35 (Min=25, Max=62). Most of participants were married (81.8%, n=45) and 70.9 (n=39) had kids. In our sample, 5.5% (n=3) and 23.6% (n=13) had respectively personal psychiatric and somatic history. Some addictive behaviors were identified among our participants, especially smoking (14.5%, n=379) and alcohol use (3.6%, n=2).Regarding working conditions, 81.8% (n=45) were assigned shift work. They worked in the men’s ward (43.6%, n=24), the women’s ward (34.5%, n=19), or in both (21.8%, n=12). Furthermore, 45.5% (n=25) reported witnessing a suicide attempt during their work, and 74.5% (n=41) were victims of aggression, primarily by patients (82.5%, n=33). Sixty percent (n=33) said expressed a desire to transfer.Moderate to extremely severe depression, anxiety and stress was observed in respectively 34.5% (n=19), 61.8% (n=34) and 36.4% (n=20) of cases.A significant association was found between stress among psychiatry nurses and personal somatic history (p &lt;10-3). No further links were found between depression, anxiety, stress and other clinical factors.ConclusionsThese results emphasize the difficult working environment within psychiatric settings, emphasizing the critical requirement for specific interventions aimed at improving the mental health and well-being of psychiatric nurses.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Exploring Burnout: A Study on Psychiatric Nurses in Tunisia

IntroductionBurnout, marked by persistent workplace stress without effective management, is particularly pertinent for psychiatry nurses, considering the nature of their work environment and its potential impact on the quality of care they deliver.ObjectivesTo assess the prevalence of burnout among psychiatric nurses and to identify the socio-demographic and clinical factors associated with it.MethodsCross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study conducted over the course of one month from October 11th to November 8th 2023. Participants included were psychiatric nurses working in Razi Hospital, Tunisia. We collected data using pre-established questionnaire which included socio-demographic and clinical data of the participants. The assessment of Burnout was conducted using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), validated in Arabic. Statistical analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) in its 25th version.ResultsWe collected data from 55 nurses working in Razi psychiatry hospital during the time of the study. Among them, 80% (n=44) were female. Their median age was 35 (Min=25, Max=62). Most of participants were married (81.8%, n=45) and 70.9 (n=39) had kids. In our sample, 5.5% (n=3) and 23.6% (n=13) had respectively personal psychiatric and somatic history. Some addictive behaviors were identified among our participants, especially smoking (14.5%, n=379) and alcohol use (3.6%, n=2).Regarding working conditions, 81.8% (n=45) were assigned shift work. They worked in the men’s ward (43.6%, n=24), the women’s ward (34.5%, n=19), or in both (21.8%, n=12). Furthermore, 45.5% (n=25) reported witnessing a suicide attempt during their work, and 74.5% (n=41) were victims of aggression, primarily by patients (82.5%, n=33). Sixty percent (n=33) said expressed a desire to transfer.According to the MBI, 49.1% (n=27) had high emotional exhaustion, 27.3% (n=15) had high depersonalization and 67.3% (n=37) had low personal accomplishment.A significant association was found between low personal accomplishment and the desire to transfer to another department (p=0.026). No further links were found with other clinical data.ConclusionsOur findings provide a thorough examination of burnout among psychiatric nursing professionals, underscoring the critical need for specific interventions tailored to their unique challenges.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared