Riyadh Region Research Articles

Key Predictors of Patient Satisfaction and Loyalty in Saudi Healthcare Facilities: A Cross-Sectional Analysis.

Patient satisfaction and loyalty are essential indicators of healthcare quality, directly impacting patient outcomes and the long-term success of healthcare facilities. Despite the growing importance of patient-centered care in Saudi Arabia, there is limited research exploring the factors that influence patient satisfaction and loyalty, particularly in the Riyadh region. This study aims to identify the key factors influencing patient satisfaction and loyalty among Saudi patients attending public and private healthcare facilities in the Riyadh region. The study focuses on how healthcare service quality, communication, and demographic factors contribute to patient satisfaction and loyalty. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 350 Saudi patients from 10 healthcare facilities in Riyadh. Data were collected using the Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire (PSQ-18) and the Patient Loyalty Questionnaire (PLQ). Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regression were employed to identify predictors of patient satisfaction and loyalty. Significant predictors of patient satisfaction included general satisfaction (β = 0.48, p < 0.001), communication (β = 0.35, p < 0.001), and the frequency of healthcare visits (β = 0.13, p = 0.011). Private healthcare facilities had higher satisfaction (p < 0.001) and loyalty scores (p < 0.001) compared to public facilities. Patient loyalty was strongly predicted by general satisfaction (β = 0.55, p < 0.001) and communication (β = 0.42, p < 0.001). Communication quality and patient satisfaction are key drivers of patient loyalty in Saudi healthcare facilities. Private facilities outperform public ones in patient satisfaction and loyalty. These findings emphasize the need for healthcare providers to enhance communication and service quality to foster patient loyalty. Tailored approaches to meet the diverse needs of patients, particularly in terms of education and visit frequency, are crucial for improving healthcare outcomes in Saudi Arabia.

Molecular characterization of plant growth-promoting Trichoderma from Saudi Arabia.

Fungi in the genus Trichoderma are widespread in the environment, mainly in soils. They are used in agriculture because of their mycoparasitic potential; Trichoderma have the ability to increase plant health and provide protection against phytopathogens, making them desirable plant symbionts. We isolated, identified, and characterized Trichoderma from different regions of Saudi Arabia and evaluated the ability of Trichoderma to promote plant growth. Morphological and molecular characterization, along with phylogenetic studies, were utilized to differentiate between Trichoderma species isolated from soil samples in the Abha and Riyadh regions, Saudi Arabia. Then, plant growth-promoting traits of the isolated Trichoderma species were assessed. Eight Trichoderma isolates were characterized via morphological and molecular analysis; six (Trichoderma koningiopsis, Trichoderma lixii, Trichoderma koningii, Trichoderma harzianum, Trichoderma brevicompactum, and Trichoderma velutinum) were from Abha and two (T. lixii and T. harzianum) were from Riyadh. The isolated Trichoderma strains belonged to three different clades (Clade 1: Harzianum, Clade 2: Brevicompactum, and Clade 3: Viride). The Trichoderma isolates varied in plant growth-promoting traits. Seeds treated with most isolates exhibited a high percentage of germination, except seeds treated with the T3-T. koningii isolate. 100% germination was reported for seeds treated with the T4-T. harzianum and T6-T. brevicompactum isolates, while seeds treated with the T1-T. koniniopsis and T5-T. lixii isolates showed 91.1% and 90.9% germination, respectively. Seeds treated with the T8-T. velutinum, T2-T. lixii, and T7-T. harzianum isolates had germination rates of 84.1%, 82.2%, and 72.7%, respectively. The Trichoderma isolate T5-T. lixii stimulated tomato plant growth the most, followed by T7-T. harzianum, T8-T. velutinum, T4-T. harzianum, T1-T. koniniopsis, T2-T. lixii, and T6-T. brevicompactum; the least effective was T3-T. koningii. A maximum fresh weight of 669.33mg was observed for the T5-T. lixii-treated plants. The Abha region had a higher diversity of Trichoderma species than the Riyadh region, and most isolated Trichoderma spp. promoted tomato growth.

Outcomes of the premarital screening program in Riyadh Region, KSA in 2021–2022: A cross-sectional study

ObjectiveThis study investigated the prevalence of sickle cell disease, β-thalassemia, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) and their demographic associations in Riyadh, KSA. MethodA retrospective cross-sectional design was used for this study. National data were obtained from The Healthy Marriage Program for the Riyadh region. Variables involved in the data collection tool were demographic data, lab results for hematology and serology tests and diagnosis, and the status of the certificate. A single sample K–S test was used to determine the normality of the data. We used the multiple logistic regression model. The odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were reported for both bivariate and multivariable analyses. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. ResultThe study screened a total of 916,295 participants, comprising 452,474 in 2021 and 463,821 in 2022. The sex distribution was 51.7% male and 48.3% female, with a mean age (± standard deviation) of 43 (±11.8) in 2021 and 41 (±11.9) in 2022. Among the participants, there were 196 sickle cell disease (SCD) cases and 4610 carriers. Additionally, 1069 participants tested positive for infectious diseases. Sex was a notable factor in SCD, HIV, HBV, and HCV cases. ConclusionOur findings highlight the importance of ongoing surveillance and intervention efforts through programs such as premarital screening and genetic counseling programs. These initiatives are crucial for identifying at-risk individuals and reducing the burden of genetic disorders and infectious diseases with targeted public health strategies. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to monitor trends and assess the long-term impact of preventive measures on disease prevalence and distribution in the region.

Low uptake of Pap test as a cervical cancer screen among Saudi women: Findings from a national survey.

The present study aimed to assess the current knowledge and uptake of Papanicolaou (Pap) tests for cervical screening among Saudi women, including barriers to undergoing the test and the availability of related services. A cross-sectional study was conducted using a health questionnaire administered through the Absher portal between April 1, 2019, and March 31, 2020. The questionnaire consisted of five questions and took less than 5 min to complete. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed to analyze demographic variables, and chi-square tests were used to examine the association between these variables and Pap test uptake. The questionnaire included 8194 Saudi women, with the majority from Makkah (24.40%), Riyadh (21.92%), and Eastern (14.44%) regions. Only 22.52% of respondents had ever received a Pap test, and among them, 17.48% did so based on their physician's recommendation. Private clinics accounted for 10.73% of Pap test locations, while public clinics accounted for 8.97%. The primary reasons for not undergoing the test were lack of knowledge regarding its importance (40.24%) and lack of information from physicians (16.96%). Knowledge of the Pap test as a cervical screening method was significantly associated with marital status, Saudi region, and age group. This study revealed low awareness of the Pap test for cervical screening among Saudi women, particularly in younger age groups. Targeted educational initiatives are essential to increase awareness and emphasize the significance of regular screenings, especially among younger individuals, to enhance early detection and reduce the burden of cervical cancer in Saudi Arabia.

A Proposed Vision for Achieving Competitive Advantage for Urban Development Programs and Sustainable Humanity Through Charities

The main objective of this study is to formulate a proposed vision to achieve competitive advantage for sustainable urban and human development programs in charitable societies, by determining the reality of competitive advantage, identifying the difficulties facing achieving competitive advantage for sustainable urban and human development programs in charitable societies, and identifying the most important proposals to achieve competitive advantage for those. Programs, and this study belongs to the style of analytical descriptive studies, as the study population is members of charitable societies working in the field of sustainable human urban development in the Riyadh region. The study sample consisted of (65) members, who were selected using a simple random sampling method, and these societies were identified in (the Association Al-Nahda, Al-Wafa Women’s Charitable Society, Al-Ghat Charitable Society, Dharma Charitable Society). The results of the study confirmed that the reality of the competitive advantage of sustainable urban and human development programs in charitable organizations may be represented in: providing the highest possible quality, relying on modern technology in its design, touching reality and spreading the needs of the population, focusing on social innovation in its design, providing it at the lowest possible cost, Community residents participate in its design, community residents participate in its evaluation, and the difficulties facing achieving competitive advantage for sustainable urban and human development programs in charitable organizations have been represented in: the small number of specialized experts in the association, weak resources and technological capabilities, and a weak culture of teamwork among the association’s employees. The weak confidence of the community residents in those in charge of the association, the weakness of the enablers of institutional excellence in the association, and that the proposals to achieve a competitive advantage for sustainable urban and human development programs in charitable societies were represented in: overcoming the organizational conflict between the employees of the association, developing the enablers of institutional excellence in the association, developing resources and capabilities. Technology, developing the comprehensive quality system in managing the association, relying on strategic planning in the association, increasing the confidence of community residents in those in charge of the association.

A Study of the Saudi Arabian Emergency Medical Services' performance in both rural and urban locations is influenced by organisational factors

Background: This study explores into the investigation of the impact of organisational elements on the performance of Saudi Arabian EMS in various contexts, including rural &amp; urban areas. The current research aims to learn more about the organisational variables that may explain why EMS performance differs in urban or rural areas from the perspectives of frontline personnel. Method: Researchers in Saudi Arabia's Riyadh region carried out the study. Participants were required to have worked for the Saudi Red Crescent EMS for at least 5 years and be currently engaged in one of the following roles: technician, paramedic, or EMS station manager. The first participants who responded to the call for participation were interviewed using semi-structured interviews from October 2021 to July 2022. The process proceeded until all data is acquire. We will analyse the data using analysis methodology. Results: Forty people from the Saudi Red Crescent EMS are a part of the final sample (20 from rural areas and 20 from urban centres). The data analysis is reveal important organisational characteristics that caused EMS staff to face obstacles &amp; hurdles. There were also some similarities. Conclusion: Results showed that EMS performance is negatively affected in both urban &amp; rural locations.

Creating Spatial Database Infrastructure and Integrating Data among the Governorates of Riyadh Region

Creating Spatial Database Infrastructure and Integrating Data among the Governorates of Riyadh Region

Statistical Analysis of Cancer Incidence in Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia

Statistical Analysis of Cancer Incidence in Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia

Statistical Analysis of Cancer Incidence in Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia

Statistical Analysis of Cancer Incidence in Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia

Statistical Analysis of Cancer Incidence in Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia

Statistical Analysis of Cancer Incidence in Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia

تأثير ضغط الجدول الزمني على أداء المشروع: بالتطبيق على المشاريع الإنشائية في منطقة الرياض

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of schedule crashing on project performance: an application to construction projects in the Riyadh region. Schedule crashing is an important technique used to accelerate project completion, but it can have negative effects if not managed properly. The study focuses on five key aspects of project performance: duration, cost, scope, quality, and stakeholder satisfaction. The study adopted a descriptive-analytical methodology and used a questionnaire as a tool for collecting primary data. The questionnaire was distributed to a random sample from the research community, which included engineers working on construction projects in the Riyadh region of Saudi Arabia. A total of 436 questionnaires were obtained, and after inspection and verification, 390 valid questionnaires were analyzed. The data was analyzed, and the hypotheses were tested using SPSS software. The results showed a statistically significant impact of schedule crashing on project performance, affecting duration, cost, scope, quality, and stakeholder satisfaction. The study provided several recommendations to improve schedule crashing management and reduce negative impacts.

Saudi Arabia's Middle East respiratory syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) outbreak: consequences, reactions, and takeaways.

Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) is a viral illness caused by the MERS-Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) that was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012. Saudi Arabia has reported most global MERS-CoV cases and deaths, with periodic outbreaks in other countries. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the 2023 MERS-CoV outbreak in Saudi Arabia, including its epidemiology, public health response, impact, and lessons learned. This study utilized a narrative review approach, drawing on published literature and data from sources such as the WHO and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The 2023 outbreak was centered in the Riyadh region, with 312 confirmed cases and 97 deaths reported. MERS-CoV primarily spreads from dromedary camels to humans, with human-to-human transmission, especially in healthcare settings. The outbreak exhibited seasonal and spatial trends, with most cases during camel calving season and in rural areas with high camel populations. The Saudi Ministry of Health implemented a multi-faceted response, including enhancing surveillance, improving infection prevention, providing clinical support, and conducting risk communication. Over time, the response showed a decline in the number of cases and deaths, indicating its effectiveness. The outbreak has significant public health, economic, and social impacts, underscoring the ongoing threat of emerging zoonotic diseases. Key lessons include early case detection, efficient infection control, vaccine and treatment development, public engagement, and strengthening of regional and global collaboration to mitigate future outbreaks and safeguard public health.

Barriers to Point-of-Care Ultrasound Utilization Among Emergency Medicine Residents in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is increasingly recognized as a valuable diagnostic tool in emergency medicine (EM). This study aimed to identify barriers to POCUS utilization among EM residents in the Riyadh region. An observational cross-sectional study was conducted among 116 EM residents from various training centers in Riyadh. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires assessing demographics, ultrasound (US) training, perceived barriers, and facilitators to POCUS usage. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, multiple response dichotomy analysis, and multivariable linear regression. The majority of residents had completed US training and recognized the importance of POCUS in emergency settings. However, significant barriers were identified, including time constraints and logistical challenges. Multivariable regression analysis revealed associations between residents' training status, beliefs in incentives, anticipated POCUS use, and perceived barriers. This study highlights the importance of addressing barriers to POCUS integration into residency programs. Efforts should focus on optimizing training, addressing workflow challenges, and enhancing residents' confidence in POCUS utilization. Targeted interventions tailored to specific clinical contexts may facilitate greater acceptance and integration of POCUS into routine practice.

Validation of the Arabic version of the diabetes self-management questionnaire in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe number of instruments available for measuring diabetes self-management activities in Arabic countries has been limited to date. To our knowledge, no multidimensional instrument suitable for measuring diabetes self-management is currently available in Arabic. This study assessed the validation of the Arabic version of the Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire (A-DSMQ) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted from May to August 2022 at primary healthcare centers within the Riyadh region of Saudi Arabia. Four steps were followed during the translation and adaptation of the DSMQ: forward translation, consulting an expert panel, backward translation, and pilot testing on the target population. The data were collected using a convenience sample of 154 patients with T2DM. Cronbach’s α coefficient, criterion validity, and known-group validity were determined.ResultsCronbach’s α coefficient for internal consistency was 0.76. The A-DMSQ “sum scale” scores were negatively correlated with glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels (Pearson’s r = − 0.48, p < 0.01) and body mass indices (r = − 0.29, p < 0.01) and positively correlated with Self-Rated Health Scale scores (r = 0.41, p < 0.01). Mean A-DSMQ “sum scale” scores differed significantly among groups with adequate, partially adequate, and inadequate glycemic control (F = 23.193, p < 0.001).ConclusionsThese results indicate that the A-DSMQ is a reliable and valid tool for measuring diabetes self-management in patients with T2DM. The A-DSMQ can be used by researchers and healthcare providers interested in assessing diabetes self-management in this population. Healthcare providers should remain alert for suboptimal diabetes self-management, which may lead to significant economic costs in emergency and healthcare utilization.

How safe is Autheem therapy for young Saudi infants? A question worth asking.

In Saudi Arabia, a traditional therapy for a folk labeled problem known as "Autheem - " is often offered to infants. The procedure involves manipulating an infant's soft palate to alleviate pain associated with infant colic and poor feeding. However, concerns remain about this procedure's impact on infant health and its potential to transmit infections. This study focused on perceptions that Saudi mothers hold about Autheem therapy. A descriptive, cross-sectional, community-based study was conducted via an online platform to reach Saudi mothers in the Riyadh region of Saudi Arabia. Five hundred and thirty-six Saudi mothers participated; half were older than 30 years of age. Despite a high rate of college degree attainment, the majority of mothers relied on their elders as a source of information (88.4%). Autheem was viewed to be a stand-alone disease by 86.5% of respondents; 71.4% believed it could not be treated with modern medicine. Most infants were under six months of age when they received Autheem therapy (72%). Roughly 13% of mothers found that their infant had a fever after the therapy; we found an association between Autheem therapy and viral illnesses. About 13% of mothers altered their child's vaccination schedule after Autheem therapy. Older mothers have more positive attitudes towards and stronger beliefs in Autheem therapy than younger mothers. The therapy's strong association with viral illnesses and its negative impact on vaccination schedules are major public health concerns.

Euphemism in Saudi Slang: An Attitudinal Survey Study

This study explores some euphemistic expressions in common usage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). It evaluates the degree to which Saudis are familiar with these expressions and how frequently they use them. The KSA covers a large area with a variety of dialects: thus, any socio-linguistic research which deals with slang should be meticulous. One enabling factor for this study is that Saudis are comparatively religious and avoidant of linguistic taboos, and consequently employ euphemisms often. Several research papers have tackled taboos in the KSA, but most of these have been contrastive to or comparative with British English or American English, while others have explored standard euphemistic expressions in classical Arabic. This study is unique in dealing with selective euphemisms used in Saudi slang through a survey devised to measure peoples' degree of knowledge as well as their usage of such expressions. After analyzing the results of the questionnaires, it is possible to derive several attitudinal results, the most important of which include the findings that present-day Saudis are generally well-acquainted with euphemism in their language and that they are inclined to employ it in everyday situations wherever appropriate. The population selected for this study is resident within the Al Riyadh region, or what can be called “Najid”. As the heart of the KSA, this region has Saudis from various regions and with a range of linguistic differences. However, it is recommended that similar studies be taken up in different parts of the KSA so as to pinpoint regional variations.

Families of Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: Variables Associated with Family Quality of Life.

This study investigated the predictors that might influence the perception of families having a member with a disability regarding their quality of life (FQOL). The sample consisted of 320 family members from the Riyadh region of Saudi Arabia. The overall results showed that participants' satisfaction with FQOL was at a moderate level. Further results indicated that variables associated with severity, type of disability, and the mother's age and education were significant predictors of the FQOL. These results emphasize the importance of considering the variables that impact FQOL, such as the severity and type of disability, and mother's related variables, when directing support to families with a member with a disability. The recommendations and limitations of the study were discussed.

Knowledge, Attitude, Beliefs, and Practice Related to Concussion Injury Among Sports Physical Therapists in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A Cross-sectional Analysis.

Sport-related concussions (SRC) are estimated to affect more than 55 million individuals annually. Physical therapists ought to have fundamental knowledge regarding the evaluation and treatment of SRC. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice of the physical therapists regarding SRC management in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The cross-sectional study enrolled 83 sports physical therapist who had atleast undergraduate degree and above in physical therapy from Riyadh region. The participants who worked outside the Riyadh region were excluded. A validated adopted questionnaire was used to evaluate the outcome measures. The study showed that sport physical therapists have a good understanding and knowledge about concussions having 3.91 ± 0.98 scores on the five-point Likert scale. In addition, participants were able to recognize concussion signs and symptoms correctly; however, they felt that they lacked confidence to make a decision regarding return to play. Our study revealed important knowledge gaps regarding the utilization of concussion severity scales, management of youth concussion, and/or the use of neurological imaging modalities for diagnosing concussion cases.

Awareness of audiology and speech-language pathology services among healthcare professionals in Saudi Arabia.

Healthcare professionals are required to work effectively together to deliver the best healthcare services. Without awareness of other healthcare professionals' roles and responsibilities, interprofessional practice (IPP) cannot be optimally achieved. This study aimed to investigate healthcare professionals' awareness of audiology and speech-language pathology (SLP) services in Saudi Arabia. This cross-sectional descriptive study consisted of two parts. The content of a 20-item paper questionnaire was firstly validated. The full-scale study addressed the aim through distributing questionnaire items among potential participants. Descriptive statistics and chi-square test were used. A total of 403 participants completed the questionnaires for the main study. Most of the participants were Saudi citizens (84.1%), aged 18 years - 40 years (84.8%) years, and lived in Riyadh region (76.2%). Allied health professionals (40.2%), physicians (22.6%), nursing (15.4%) and dentistry (11.2%) were the main group of participants working mainly at governmental hospitals (69.2%). Of the total participants, 92.6% and 95.3% reported being fully aware of the services provided by audiologists and SLPs, respectively. No statistically significant association between the specialty of participants and their familiarity with the scope of practice for SLPs and audiologists was determined. Our study examined healthcare professionals' awareness of audiology and SLP services and revealed a high level of awareness.Contribution:The existed level of awareness is expected to facilitate IPP and enhance the quality of care. Still, awareness campaigns about audiology and SLP services are needed to address the existing lack of knowledge among some healthcare professionals.

Floristic Composition, Diversity, and Vegetation Structure in Wadi Al-Quwayiyah, Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabya

Floristic Composition, Diversity, and Vegetation Structure in Wadi Al-Quwayiyah, Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabya