Snowball Sampling Research Articles

Transgender and Nonbinary Individuals' Perceptions Regarding Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy and Cardiovascular Health: A Qualitative Study.

Transgender and nonbinary individuals face substantial cardiovascular health uncertainties. The use of gender-affirming hormone therapy can be used to achieve one's gender-affirming goals. As self-rated health is an important predictor of health outcomes, an understanding of how this association is perceived by transgender and nonbinary individuals using gender-affirming hormone therapy is required. The objective of this research was to explore transgender and nonbinary individuals' perceptions of cardiovascular health in the context of using gender-affirming hormone therapy. In this qualitative study, English-speaking transgender and nonbinary adults using gender-affirming hormone therapy for 3 months or more were recruited from across Canada using purposive and snowball sampling methods. Semistructured interviews were conducted through videoconference to explore transgender and nonbinary individuals' perceptions of the association between gender-affirming hormone therapy and cardiovascular health between May and August 2023. Data were transcribed verbatim, and transcripts were analyzed independently by 3 reviewers using thematic analysis. Twenty-one participants were interviewed (8 transgender women, 9 transgender men, and 3 nonbinary individuals; median [range] age, 27 [20-69] years; 80% White participants). Three main themes were identified: cardiovascular health was not a primary concern in the decision-making process with regard to gender-affirming hormone therapy, the improved well-being associated with gender-affirming hormone therapy was felt to contribute to improved cardiovascular health, and health care provider knowledge and attitude facilitate the transition process. Gender-affirming hormone therapy in transgender and nonbinary individuals is perceived to improve cardiovascular health. Given the positive associations between care aligned with patient priorities, self-rated health, and health outcomes, these findings should be considered as part of shared decision-making and person-centered care.

‘The health care system is more like a business’—medical overuse from the patients’ perspective in Germany: a qualitative study

ObjectivesMedical overuse exposes patients to unnecessary risks of harm. It is an open question whether and how patients perceive the concept of medical overuse, its causes and negative consequences.DesignA qualitative...

The challenges of confronting racism as a social disease by second-generation Indians in social and professional space in Australia: A qualitative study

ABSTRACT This qualitative study investigated the experiences of racism encountered by second-generation Indian Australians in social and professional domains through semi-structured interviews with 30 participants aged 15–25 years living in Melbourne and Sydney. Purposive and snowball sampling were used to recruit participants. Data was analysed thematically using critical race theory. Key findings included experiences of racism in educational settings, which had psychological impacts. Moreover, racism also influenced family life and career opportunities, reflecting tangible consequences. The study underlines distinct challenges that emerged based on gender, religion, geographic location and socio-economic background, highlighting intersectionality. Racism was found to permeate multiple life spheres through institutional and individual biases. The findings highlight that anti-racism strategies addressing educational, workplace and community inclusion in an intersectional framework, thereby advancing multicultural societies of equity and belonging for all.

HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis use during periods of unprotected sex among female sex workers in Tanga city, Tanzania: a control arm analysis of the pragmatic quasi-experimental trial

BackgroundPre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) prevention-effective adherence is of critical importance but challenging particularly among key populations where periods of high HIV risk are frequent. We assessed the use of PrEP with reference to periods of unprotected sex among female sex workers in the city of Tanga.MethodsThis was part of the pragmatic quasi-experimental trial for HIV PrEP rollout in Tanzania involving a control cohort of 313 female sex workers aged ≥18 years recruited by respondent-driven sampling and followed for 12 months. PrEP use and periods of condomless or unprotected sex were assessed at the 6th and 12th month of follow-up. Prevention-effective adherence was defined as PrEP use of ≥2 pills/week and ≥6 pills/week for anal and vaginal condomless sex. Multivariable modified Poisson regression was conducted to determine factors influencing PrEP use (≥2 pills/week).ResultsOverall, 59.2 and 45.9% of participants had unprotected anal and vaginal sex with a client, respectively. The prevention-effective adherence for anal sex ranged from 8.0% (months 6) to 10.0% (months 12) while that of vaginal sex was from 10.1% (month 6) to 3.8% (month 12). Participants who lived with friends were 25.5 times more likely to use ≥2 PrEP doses per week than those who lived alone (aPR = 25.5; 95%CI: 2.55–255.42, p = 0.006). Compared to self-reporting poor health status, self-reporting good health status significantly increased the use of ≥2 PrEP doses per week (aPR = 17.4; 95%CI: 3.01–101.02, p = 0.001). Refusing condomless sex with a steady partner increased the likelihood of using ≥2 PrEP doses per week than accepting condomless sex with a steady partner (aPR = 11.2; 95%CI: 1.55–80.48, p = 0.017). The prevalence of using ≥2 PrEP doses per week was less among participants accepting condomless sex at high pay than those who refused (aPR = 0.1; 95%CI: 0.03–0.26, p = 0.000).ConclusionUse of PrEP during periods of unprotected sex was rare among female sex workers. Living with friends, self-reporting good health status, and refusing condomless sex with steady partners were associated with increased use of ≥2 PrEP doses per week. However, accepting condomless sex for increased payment was associated with reduced use of ≥2 PrEP doses per week. This calls for an in-depth study to understand the perspectives and circumstances shaping poor adherence during periods of unprotected sex among female sex workers.

The effect of social media marketing activities dimensions on value co-creation behavior: An application of the commitment-trust theory

Previous studies have not paid much attention to the effect of social media marketing activities on value co-creation behavior. Especially, up to now, no one has studied the effects of social media marketing activities dimensions on value co-creation behavior. This study applies the commitment-trust theory to develop and estimate this relationship through brand trust and brand commitment on social media in Vietnam. The snowball sampling technique was applied to gather 504 social media users through social media platforms in Vietnam. The proposed research model was tested through PLS-SEM using SmartPLS 4. The results highlighted that most social media marketing activities dimensions (including trendiness, electronic word of mouth, interaction, and customization) affect brand trust (pc are 0.42, 0.152, 0.112, 0.097, respectively, and p-values are all less than 0.05). Simultaneously, brand trust was found to have a positive effect on brand commitment (pc =0.405, p = 0.000). Furthermore, calculation results revealed that brand commitment contributed significantly and strongly to their co-value behavior towards brands (pc = 0.531, p = 0.000). On the contrary, the data do not support a direct impact of entertainment on brand trust (pc = 0.001, p = 0.990) and brand trust on co-value behavior (pc = 0.025, p = 0.466) at a significance level of less than 5%. Ultimately, the findings also suggest a guide to social media marketers to drive customer value co-creation behavior for brands. AcknowledgmentThis work was supported by the National Foundation for Science & Technology Development of Vietnam under Decision No. 131/QD-HDQL-NAFOSTED dated September 21, 2020.

Relation between attitudes towards pornography consumption, peer sexual behaviors and attitudes towards premarital sex among the college students in Guangdong province, China

Limited research exists on college students’ attitudes towards premarital sex in China, despite its increasing prevalence among youth. This study examines the correlation between attitudes towards pornography consumption, peer sexual behaviors, and college students’ attitudes towards premarital sex in Guangdong province, China. Using convenient and snowball sampling, 326 participants completed a questionnaire. Results reveal significant correlations between attitudes towards pornography consumption, peer sexual behaviors, and attitudes towards premarital sex. The study discusses implications for practice and policy. These findings offer practical insights for future research on love and marriage in Chinese society.

Capturing the HIV-related social exclusion practices experienced by key populations through photovoice: an interpretative phenomenological study

BackgroundKey populations are defined as groups that are susceptible to HIV, including Men Sex with Men (MSM), Transgender (TG), Persons who Inject Drug (PID), and Female Sex Worker (FSW). These key populations groups are among the fastest-growing populations in Indonesia. These vulnerable groups are ostracized by society and health services, which makes it difficult to get treatment. This project was carried out to investigate the different experiences and perspectives of these key populations in facing and addressing social and spiritual exclusion.MethodsA qualitative phenomenological study using photovoice was carried out from July to December 2022. Key populations comprising MSM, TG, PID, and FSW were recruited from community-based peer groups in West Bandung Regency using snowball sampling. This was followed by the Photovoice stages, from workshops to focus group discussions and interviews with audio recordings. Furthermore, thematic data analysis was carried out by interpretative participant narratives and photographs supported by Atlas.ti software.ResultEighteen participants comprising four MSM, five TG, four PIDs, and five FSWs participated in this research. Among these eighteen participants, six were HIV-negative, including 3 PIDs and 3 FSWs, while the remaining were positive. The analysis of the collected data identified four main themes: 1) limited access like unequal treatment, disadvantage, and harassment, 2) social and spiritual impact, 3) coping mechanisms, and 4) self-reflection through photovoice. These results showed that social exclusion occurred in an environment where community values, beliefs, and norms dehumanised these key populations, and where removal of support and care was prominent. Despite these challenges, participant resilience was evidenced by using internal resources and peer support as coping mechanisms. The participants considered photovoice as a tool to foster self-confidence and self-awareness through a reflective process.ConclusionsThe findings of this study highlight the emphasis on participants' openness in sharing their experiences, which can build empathy and promote a more inclusive community in HIV prevention efforts. This research findings can be used to inform HIV policy and practice and inclusion of these key populations in the community. We advocate making the photovoice efforts accessible to a wider audience through exhibitions and various media.

A qualitative investigation of dental internships in Saudi Arabia: Exploring the experiences of dental interns.

For dental graduates, internships are a vital transitional phase that gives them the invaluable opportunity to close the gap between their academic studies and the reality of professional dentistry. Research on dental internships remains limited and most of the existing studies focus on the clinical aspects of dental internships with little attention given to dental interns' experiences overall. This study aims to bridge this gap in the literature by gaining an in-depth understanding of Saudi dental graduates' range of experiences as dental interns. To achieve the research objective, this study adopted a qualitative approach. Using purposive and snowball sampling, the study recruited 23 dental interns from Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia, who had completed at least nine months of their internship. Data was gathered across three months via diaries and virtual semi-structured interviews based on participants' preferences. The data was then analysed thematically using an inductive analytical strategy. The data analysis revealed three major themes and four sub-themes regarding the experiences of dental interns. The core three themes were "activities", "autonomy" and "transitioning to a balanced life" whereby interns have the time and freedom to explore their interests, rekindle their social lives and focus on self-care, resulting in a better work-life balance. This study suggests that dental interns will benefit from the retention and strengthening of key internship activities such as research, community work and clinical rotations. Additionally, the experiences of dental interns can be improved by encouraging interns to progress in their clinical training with a high level of autonomy. Also, due to the limited research in this area, further studies are required to improve our understanding of the lived experiences of dental interns and dental internships in general.

Overview of the ornamental aquatic organisms market in Brazil

This study aims to analyze the ornamental aquatic organisms market and identify key consumer obstacles in aquarium farming. A questionnaire comprising 57 questions was distributed via Virtual Social Networks (RSV), using the Snowball method during June and July 2023. The survey encompassed all 26 states and the Federal District. Data analysis relied on descriptive statistics. Out of 270 respondents, 65% were female, 34% were male, 0.4% identified as trans women, and 0.4% as trans men. Predominant states in the research included Minas Gerais (35.6%) and Amapá (20.4%). Regarding pet ownership, only 13% of consumers raise fish, behind the raising of dogs (56%) and cats (22%). Among the fish, 47% are small species, such as guppy, swordfish, betta, platy, and others. Reasons for discontinuing ornamental aquatic animal ownership included lack of time, insufficient information on care, pet mortality, and disease-related losses. However, 72% expressed continued interest in restarting. While the production of ornamental aquatic organisms has been on the rise, especially nationally, lack of information remains a primary barrier to increased adoption in Brazil. Therefore, expanding publicity, particularly through specialized aquarium stores, offers a viable solution to reducing mortality rates among aquarium animals and fostering consumer interest.

Activity theory perspective to the scale‐up and sustainability of mhealth in armed conflict zones of developing countries

AbstractMobile Health (mHealth) presents the potential to facilitate healthcare and improve the quality of life if successful pilot projects are scaled up and sustainable. However, the persistent termination of mHealth at the pilot phase challenges its potential in developing countries. Existing research suggests an absence of understanding of these phenomena for two reasons. First, literature is scarce in the broad context of armed conflict zones in developing countries, particularly in the IS domain. Second, extant literature emphasizes mHealth implementation, while neglecting the scale‐up and sustainability of these technologies. Therefore, this study employs activity theory as a holistic lens to explore how contradictions shape the scale‐up and sustainability of mHealth in the armed conflict zone of developing countries. In this study, rather than viewing contradiction as a challenge, it serves as a driver for effecting changes that can foster scale‐up and sustainability. The Algorithm for the Management of Acute Childhood Illnesses (ALMANACH), provides an empirical basis for this study. The research employs the interpretivism philosophy and the case study method. In‐depth interviews, participatory observations, and document reviews were used to collect data. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were used to select the study's participants. The study reveals a lack of professional expertise among the CHWs, the non‐involvement of the users and beneficiaries in designing ALMANACH, and the lack of financial compensation for using ALMANACH in practice as contradictions. The study further exposes how community volunteer groups and the ALMANACH scientific board were established to steer demand.

Modern Agriculture Development Case in Gobleg Village Banjar Subdistrict Buleleng Regency, Bali Province

The challenges of Indonesia's agricultural development today are climate change and potential droughts. This research aims to analyze the modern agricultural development of the Gobleg Village Case of Banjar district of Buleleng. This research uses a qualitative method with a case study approach. Determination of informants using snowball sampling and data collection methods is done with in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation. Data analysis using interactive model analysis of Miles, Huberman and Saldana (2014). The results of the research show the selection of commodities based on potential income, level of market demand, knowledge, land characteristics and socio-cultural characteristics. The agricultural production process ranges from land processing to post-harvest harvesting. Farmers have already implemented eco-friendly farming by implementing IoT-based fertigation. Institutional support consists of marketing, financing, technical guidance and social capital. The marketing of products is facilitated by the Gobleg PMK cooperation in cooperation with Bali Organic Subak, the marketing is done online with the Fresh Boss application. The cooperation provides facilitation of means of production with the payment system after harvest. In terms of social capital, farmers still exist doing gotong royong in land processing. Farmers are already able to leverage technology like smartphones that are integrated with IoT-based fertigation.

Modern Agriculture Development Case in Gobleg Village Banjar Subdistrict Buleleng Regency, Bali Province

The challenges of Indonesia's agricultural development today are climate change and potential droughts. This research aims to analyze the modern agricultural development of the Gobleg Village Case of Banjar district of Buleleng. This research uses a qualitative method with a case study approach. Determination of informants using snowball sampling and data collection methods is done with in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation. Data analysis using interactive model analysis of Miles, Huberman and Saldana (2014). The results of the research show the selection of commodities based on potential income, level of market demand, knowledge, land characteristics and socio-cultural characteristics. The agricultural production process ranges from land processing to post-harvest harvesting. Farmers have already implemented eco-friendly farming by implementing IoT-based fertigation. Institutional support consists of marketing, financing, technical guidance and social capital. The marketing of products is facilitated by the Gobleg PMK cooperation in cooperation with Bali Organic Subak, the marketing is done online with the Fresh Boss application. The cooperation provides facilitation of means of production with the payment system after harvest. In terms of social capital, farmers still exist doing gotong royong in land processing. Farmers are already able to leverage technology like smartphones that are integrated with IoT-based fertigation.

Foraging for the future: traditional culinary uses of wild plants in the Western Himalayas–Kashmir Valley (India)

BackgroundIn the intricate tapestry of food security, wild food species stand as pillars, nourishing millions in low-income communities, and reflecting the resilience and adaptability of human societies. Their significance extends beyond mere sustenance, intertwining with cultural traditions and local knowledge systems, underscoring the importance of preserving biodiversity and traditional practices for sustainable livelihoods.MethodsThe present study, conducted between February 2022 and August 2023 along the Line of Control in India’s Kashmir Valley, employed a rigorous data collection encompassing semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and specific field observations facilitated through a snowball sampling technique.Results and discussionThe comprehensive inventory includes 108 edible plant and fungal species from 48 taxonomic families, with Rosaceae (N = 11) standing out. Young and soft leaves (N = 60) are an important component of various culinary preparations, with vegetables (N = 65) being the main use, followed by fruits (N = 19). This use is seasonal, with collection peaks in March–April and June–August (N = 12). The study also highlights the importance of use value (UV), with Portulaca oleracea standing out as the plant taxon (UV = 0.61), while Asyneuma thomsoni has the lowest use value (UV = 0.15). Many species such as Senecio chrysanthemoides, Asperugo procumbens, Asyneuma thomsoni, and Potentilla nepalensis were classified as new for gastronomic use. Furthermore, the study underlines the great cultural importance of mushrooms such as Morchella esculenta and Geopora arenicola in influencing social hierarchies within the community. However, the transmission of traditional knowledge across generations is declining in the region. At the same time, the conservation of endangered plant species on the IUCN Red List, such as Trillium govanianum, Taxus wallichiana, Saussurea costus, and Podophyllum hexandrum, requires immediate attention.ConclusionConservation measures should be prioritized, and proactive remedial action is needed. Further research into the nutritional value of these edible species could pave the way for their commercial cultivation, which would mean potential economic growth for local communities, make an important contribution to food security in the area under study, and contribute to scientific progress.

Challenges, experiences, and coping behaviors among SMEs in the adventure tourism industry after the COVID-19 pandemic: A case from Pokhara, Nepal

The purpose of this study was to explore the challenges, experiences, and coping strategies among the SMEs involved in the adventure tourism sector in Pokhara, Nepal, after the COVID-19 pandemic. This study used a qualitative approach and conducted in-depth interviews with a total of 30 entrepreneurs and upper-level managers working in adventure tourism SMEs in Pokhara, Nepal. The researchers employed purposive and snowball sampling to select the interviewees. This study highlights the voices of managers working in SMEs involved in Nepal's adventure tourism industry and provides insight into their experiences, challenges, and coping strategies. The findings were used to build a conceptual model of the challenges, experiences, and coping strategies among adventure tourism SMEs operating in Pokhara, Nepal. Moreover, this study describes the experiences and reactions among the CEOs and upper-level managers of SMEs working in the adventure tourism sector. The findings provide important evidence for documenting unprecedented situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic and can be utilized to develop tourism policies and support systems for SMEs in the hospitality and tourism sectors. Managerial implicationsThis study identifies challenges stemming from the adverse economic impacts and explores coping mechanisms at individual and organizational levels after the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of Pokhara, Nepal. SMEs in adventure tourism rely heavily on adventure tourism and did not have enough resilience and recovery strategies. The strategies of identifying resources, increasing capabilities, and enhancing the network and cooperations were identified. It highlights the pivotal role of leadership and collaborative efforts among core stakeholders such as private associations, INGOs, and government sectors. Overall, it offers insights into challenges, crisis management and resilience in the adventure tourism SEMs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Examining the mediating role of e-health literacy in the relationship between COVID-19 awareness and dispositional hope and the experiences of those who survived the disease.

The aim of this study was to examine the mediating effect of e-health literacy levels on the relationship between individuals' awareness of COVID-19 and dispositional hope during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research was conducted with a mixed-methods design. Quantitative data were collected for the study online using Google Forms and qualitative data were collected online with an interview technique. In this framework, the qualitative data were obtained from a total of 15 people who had been diagnosed with COVID-19. These participants were selected using the snowball sampling method. A personal information form, e-Health Literacy Scale, Coronavirus Awareness Scale, Dispositional Hope Scale, and semistructured interview form were utilized in the course of the research. As a result of, it was determined that there were significant relationships between coronavirus awareness and both e-health literacy and dispositional hope, as well as between e-health literacy and dispositional hope. The measurement model was found to have good fit values. Testing the structural equation model, it was determined that e-health literacy had a full mediating role between coronavirus awareness and dispositional hope. In addition, this study showed that people who had COVID-19 had increased awareness of COVID-19 after contracting the disease.

The impact of behavioral biases on investment decisions: a serial mediation analysis

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of behavioral biases on investment decisions through a serial mediation of overconfidence and disposition effects.Design/methodology/approachThe authors assess the behavioral biases affecting the investment decisions of life insurance policyholders through the serial mediation of overconfidence and disposition effects using a structured questionnaire. The study included 501 life insurance policyholders who were selected using a snowball sampling technique.FindingsThe results of this study revealed that behavioral biases influence the investment decisions of life insurance policyholders. The results also support the serial mediation model, where behavioral biases influence the investment decisions of life insurance policyholders via overconfidence and disposition effects.Research limitations/implicationsThis study makes a theoretical contribution to the field of behavioral finance by exploring the influences of behavioral biases on investment decisions. It also introduces overconfidence and disposition effects as serial mediators between behavioral biases and investment decisions. The study will be helpful for researchers, academicians and policymakers in the development of a more comprehensive model in the area of behavioral finance and in raising awareness regarding those biases among policyholders in order to improve their investment strategy.Originality/valueThis study has extended the ongoing simple mediation model by integrating overconfidence and disposition effects in a serial mediation model between behavioral biases and investment decisions. The study will contribute to the area of behavioral finance, as it is the first time this particular study has been conducted according to the authors’ knowledge.

Heads up on concussion: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' knowledge and understanding of mild traumatic brain injury.

Concussion awareness and knowledge among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples residing in Perth, Western Australia and factors preventing presentation at a health service for assessment after such an injury. Qualitative study with participants aged between 18 and 65 years. Recruitment was by Facebook advertising and snowball sampling. A semi-structured topic yarning guide was used to guide conversations through 1:1, multi-person or group yarns. Yarns were audio-recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed. Twenty-four participants were recruited. A good knowledge of modes of concussion injury was identified in these participants. However, they identified difficulty differentiating this injury from other injuries or medical conditions. Multiple factors contributed to a reluctance to seek assessment and further management of a potential concussion. Multiple strategies to enhance education and presentation for assessment were suggested by participants. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-owned and led concussion education is the first step in enhancing understanding of this condition. Education must be coupled with improvements in the cultural safety of healthcare services, as without this, patients will continue to fail to present for assessment and management. SO WHAT?: It is recommended that concussion education focuses on the differentiation of concussion as a diagnosis from other injuries. Information regarding where and when to seek medical assessment is recommended, and this must be in a culturally safe environment. Typical recovery and potential sequelae must be explored, in programs led and devised by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples engaged with the community for which the education is proposed.

Unveiling the factors influencing public knowledge and behaviours towards medication errors in Jordan: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundMedication errors are preventable incidents resulting from improper use of drugs that may cause harm to patients. They thus endanger patient safety and offer a challenge to the efficiency and efficacy of the healthcare system. Both healthcare professionals and patients may commit medication errors.Methods and objectivesA cross-sectional, observational study was designed using a self-developed, self-administered online questionnaire. A sample was collected using convenience sampling followed by snowball sampling. Adult participants from the general population were recruited regardless of age, gender, area of residence, medical history, or educational background in order to explore their practice, experience, knowledge, and fear of medication error, and their understanding of this drug-related problem.ResultsOf the 764 participants who agreed to complete the questionnaire, 511 (66.9%) were females and 295 (38.6%) had a medical background. One-fifth of participants had experienced medication errors, with 37.7% of this segment reporting these medication errors. More than half of all medication errors (84, 57.5%) were minor and thus did not require any intervention. The average anxiety score for all attributes was 21.2 (The highest possible mean was 36, and the lowest possible was 0). The highest level of anxiety was seen regarding the risk of experiencing drug-drug interactions and the lowest levels were around drug costs and shortages. Being female, having no medical background, and having experience with medication errors were the main predictors of high anxiety scores. Most participants (between 67% and 92%) were able to recognise medication errors committed by doctors or pharmacists. However, only 21.2 to 27.5% of participants could recognise medication errors committed by patients. Having a medical background was the strongest predictor of knowledge in this study (P < 0.001).ConclusionThe study revealed that the prevalence of self-reported medication errors was significantly high in Jordan, some of which resulted in serious outcomes such as lasting impairment, though most were minor. Raising awareness about medication errors and implementing preventive measures is thus critical, and further collaboration between healthcare providers and policymakers is essential to educate patients and establish effective safety protocols.

Unveiling the factors influencing public knowledge and behaviours towards medication errors in Jordan: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundMedication errors are preventable incidents resulting from improper use of drugs that may cause harm to patients. They thus endanger patient safety and offer a challenge to the efficiency and efficacy of the healthcare system. Both healthcare professionals and patients may commit medication errors.Methods and objectivesA cross-sectional, observational study was designed using a self-developed, self-administered online questionnaire. A sample was collected using convenience sampling followed by snowball sampling. Adult participants from the general population were recruited regardless of age, gender, area of residence, medical history, or educational background in order to explore their practice, experience, knowledge, and fear of medication error, and their understanding of this drug-related problem.ResultsOf the 764 participants who agreed to complete the questionnaire, 511 (66.9%) were females and 295 (38.6%) had a medical background. One-fifth of participants had experienced medication errors, with 37.7% of this segment reporting these medication errors. More than half of all medication errors (84, 57.5%) were minor and thus did not require any intervention. The average anxiety score for all attributes was 21.2 (The highest possible mean was 36, and the lowest possible was 0). The highest level of anxiety was seen regarding the risk of experiencing drug-drug interactions and the lowest levels were around drug costs and shortages. Being female, having no medical background, and having experience with medication errors were the main predictors of high anxiety scores. Most participants (between 67% and 92%) were able to recognise medication errors committed by doctors or pharmacists. However, only 21.2 to 27.5% of participants could recognise medication errors committed by patients. Having a medical background was the strongest predictor of knowledge in this study (P < 0.001).ConclusionThe study revealed that the prevalence of self-reported medication errors was significantly high in Jordan, some of which resulted in serious outcomes such as lasting impairment, though most were minor. Raising awareness about medication errors and implementing preventive measures is thus critical, and further collaboration between healthcare providers and policymakers is essential to educate patients and establish effective safety protocols.

A qualitative exploration of perceived challenges and opportunities in the implementation of injury prevention and management in amateur female sport

IntroductionCoaches, practitioners, and leadership in amateur female sport must navigate many obstacles in the pursuit of athlete availability and optimal performance. The present study aims to evaluate opportunities and challenges to both injury prevention and management in amateur female sport, as experienced by mixed-gender coaches, allied healthcare professionals, and general practitioners.MethodsSemi-structured virtual interviews of coaches, allied healthcare professionals, and general practitioners (N = 25), recruited via convenience snowball sample. Data transcribed verbatim with reflexive thematic analysis through a critical realism framework.ResultsFemale-specific issues, education, and resource capital were challenges to the implementation of injury prevention and management in amateur female sport, thus negatively impacting on performance, prevention, and rehabilitation. Opportunities for improved care for female athletes were developing communication and relationships, outsourcing responsibility, and providing greater education, in response to desires for such, and lastly exposure to elite sport and national governing bodies’ protocols.DiscussionIn amateur female sport, developing communication pathways and relationships, along with upskilling coaches, can help better support female athletes, coaches, and healthcare professionals. Leaders and stakeholders must advocate for and support greater education, resourcing, and an understanding of female-specific issues in amateur female sport. It is intended that these findings will provide evidence and opportunities for discourse between stakeholders in amateur female sport to improve standard of supports for female athletes, coaches, and healthcare professionals. These findings may also help practitioners better exploit opportunities and circumvent challenges to improve the welfare and performance of amateur female athletes.