Self-reported Knowledge Level Research Articles

Perceptions and attitudes of dental students and dentists in South Korea toward artificial intelligence: a subgroup analysis based on professional seniority

BackgroundThis study explored dental students’ and dentists’ perceptions and attitudes toward artificial intelligence (AI) and analyzed differences according to professional seniority.MethodsIn September to November 2022, online surveys using Google Forms were conducted at 2 dental colleges and on 2 dental websites. The questionnaire consisted of general information (8 or 10 items) and participants’ perceptions, confidence, predictions, and perceived future prospects regarding AI (17 items). A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed on 4 questions representing perceptions and attitudes toward AI to identify highly influential factors according to position, age, sex, residence, and self-reported knowledge level about AI of respondents. Participants were reclassified into 2 subgroups based on students’ years in school and 4 subgroups based on dentists’ years of experience. The chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test was used to determine differences between dental students and dentists and between subgroups for all 17 questions.ResultsThe study included 120 dental students and 96 dentists. Participants with high level of AI knowledge were more likely to be interested in AI compared to those with moderate or low level (adjusted OR 24.345, p < 0.001). Most dental students (60.8%) and dentists (67.7%) predicted that dental AI would complement human limitations. Dental students responded that they would actively use AI in almost all cases (40.8%), while dentists responded that they would use AI only when necessary (44.8%). Dentists with 11–20 years of experience were the most likely to disagree that AI could outperform skilled dentists (50.0%), and respondents with longer careers had higher response rates regarding the need for AI education in schools.ConclusionsKnowledge level about AI emerged as the factor influencing perceptions and attitudes toward AI, with both dental students and dentists showing similar views on recognizing the potential of AI as an auxiliary tool. However, students’ and dentists’ willingness to use AI differed. Although dentists differed in their confidence in the abilities of AI, all dentists recognized the need for education on AI. AI adoption is becoming a reality in dentistry, which requires proper awareness, proper use, and comprehensive AI education.

Knowledge, practices and barriers to access sexual health of women in the menopausal stages: a cross-sectional study with Brazilian gynecologists

BackgroundSexual health access and care for women in the menopausal stages face significant barriers, presenting deficits in relation to diagnosis and treatment. Although epidemiological data indicate high prevalence of problems related to sexual health in this population, traditionally, the theme is not discussed in health care settings. This study aimed to analyze knowledge, practices and barriers to access sexual health of women in the menopausal stages in the context of women’s health care in Brazil.MethodsWith a cross-sectional design, a questionnaire was distributed electronically, encompassing variables related to knowledge; practices; and barriers to access sexual health of women in the menopausal stages. The data obtained were subjected to analysis using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Specifically, we employed multivariate analysis, employing multiple linear regression models, to discern potential factors associated with outcomes concerning the level of knowledge and the frequency of addressing the topic in professional practice.ResultsThe sample included 70 physicians with specialization in obstetrician/gynecologists who work in health care with women in the menopausal transition or postmenopausal women. A high level of self-reported knowledge about sexual health was identified. Regarding the practices, most of them reported directly proposing the subject and not using instruments. Although they reported frequently addressing the topic in general, topics related to vaginal lubrication, dyspareunia, and sexual dysfunction have been more present in the clinic compared to sexual orientation and women’s relationship with themselves. The main barriers were time limitation and patient discomfort with the topic. The multivariate models indicated that female gynecologists and professionals with higher levels of knowledge on the subject had a higher frequency of addressing sexual health in clinical practice with women in menopausal stages.ConclusionsSexual health access and care for brazilian women in the menopausal stages presents discrepancies in the frequency of approach between the various topics, in addition to the predictive character of technical knowledge in the practices of professionals. To ensure universal access to sexual health services for this population, an active approach through specific instruments is important, as well as the reinforcement of strategies to improve the level of knowledge of professionals.

Knowledge, urgency and agency: reflections on climate change education course outcomes

This research arose out of conversations among climate change education instructors teaching at Lakehead University and our shared interest to better understand student experiences in our courses, with the intention of informing pedagogical decisions around course design and content. Data were collected from students at the end of seven courses through a mixed methods approach consisting of an online questionnaire (n = 55), which allowed participant segmentation using the Six Americas Framework, and follow-up semi-structured interviews (n = 22). The questionnaire collected students’ self-reported levels of knowledge and understanding, sense of urgency, and sense of agency related to climate change, which are shared learning goals across our courses, as well as responses to open-ended questions on student experiences within the courses. In the interviews, participants were asked to elaborate on these themes. Participants reported increased knowledge, a heightened sense of urgency and strengthened sense of agency—including describing individual and collective changes they made following the course. We engage with the empirical data and present our critical reflections as instructors on course elements and design, encouraging others to teach climate change education in initial teacher education.

Regenerative farming as climate action

Regenerative agriculture is an alternative approach to farming that has been gaining traction and interest among farmers due to its potential to reduce input costs, improve soil health, and increase the resilience of farming systems. This paper undertakes a practice-based analysis of farmers, applying a lens of regenerative agriculture. Surveys were developed as a part of a broader project using an established methodological framework. Topics were developed and adapted with input from local stakeholders before being mailed out to three farming regions across Australia (the Western Australian Wheatbelt, the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia and Central West New South Wales). The research clustered farmers into two groups: those who are using best-practices that fall inside the scope of regenerative agriculture, and those who are not. The similarities and differences in farmer attributes, as well as self-reported knowledge levels and information sources used by each group are explored. Results indicate that a belief in anthropogenic climate change may be one of the primary divides between the two groups, and therefore a possible driver of best-practice implementation. The findings provide insight into perceptions of regenerative agriculture for Australian farmers, and may assist with knowledge dissemination amongst those managing our environment.

Preparedness of Senior Public Service Pharmacists for Clinical Leadership Roles: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background The Seven-star Pharmacist concept as promulgated by the World Health Organization identifies the pharmacist as a leader, among many other roles. Clinical leadership skills are essential in all healthcare organizations, regardless of position or area of practice, yet many pharmacists remain unaware of how leadership can be integrated into their daily clinical practice. While there is limited literature on pharmacist and clinical leadership preparedness in the sub-Saharan African region, particularly in Ghana, concerns about the hospital working environment and learning opportunities suggest that pharmacists feel unprepared for the responsibilities of clinical leadership. Furthermore, most leadership preparedness literature focuses on physicians, nurses, and public health professionals, with pharmacists being underrepresented. This study aims to address these gaps and provide insights into methods to enhance pharmacist leadership readiness in Ghana. Methodology The current study was an anonymous, online based, quantitative, cross-sectional survey conducted between April and June 2022. Participants were public service pharmacists drawn from the Government and Hospital Pharmacist Association (GHOSPA) of Ghana, who worked in government-funded health facilities within the Greater Accra region of Ghana, one of the sixteen administrative regions of the country. The questionnaire consisted of a set of questions that employed a combination of Likert scales, multiple-choice, open-ended, and closed-ended questions. The questionnaire comprised the following sections: biodata of participants and ratings of their level of preparedness for clinical leadership roles using a 5 point Likert scale. Results Nearly half of respondents (46%, n=67) reported their level of preparedness for a clinical leadership role was poor (32%) or very poor (14%). Self-reported level of knowledge and understanding of their clinical leadership roles at the time of their appointment was fair for 35% (n=51) of the respondents, whereas 23% (n=34) reported poor or very poor knowledge of the participants in the study, 65% reported receiving some form of training on clinical leadership either at the time of appointment or during their assignment, with only 35% reporting their training to be effective. Conclusion The study underscores the importance of addressing the knowledge gaps and training needs of pharmacists to enhance their preparedness for clinical leadership roles. Furthermore, organizational policies, career development opportunities, and support systems need to be established to promote effective clinical leadership roles among pharmacists. Keywords: Clinical leadership, pharmacist, preparedness, Ghana

AI VS. HUMAN: THE PUBLIC'S PERCEPTIONS OF THE DESIGN ABILITIES OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

AbstractWith the increasing implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in the design process, it is crucial to understand how users will accept AI-designed products. This work studies how the public currently perceives an AI's design capability as compared to a human designer's capability by conducting an online survey of 205 people via Amazon Mechanical Turk. The survey collects the respondents' perception on 16 specific bicycle design goals, demographic information, and self-reported level of design and AI/ML knowledge. Findings reveal that people think an AI would perform worse than a human designer on most design goals, particularly the goals that are user-dependent. This work also shows that the higher people's self-reported level of knowledge in design and the older they are, the more likely they are to think an AI's design capability would exceed a human designer's capability. The insights from this work add to the understanding of user acceptance of AI-designed products, as well as human designers' acceptance of AI input in human-AI teams.

Pressure ulcer prevention in practice.

Pressure ulcer avoidance in the context of care has the potential to improve the quality and longevity of lives for those living in residential and non-residential care home settings. This paper reports on an educational intervention in the North East of England, which focused on the initial benchmarking of self-reported knowledge levels of healthcare workers, who regularly work with people living within this context. Using a longitudinal study design, a series of three questionnaires were used to collate data from research participants. The study revealed a disparity between what healthcare workers perceived their knowledge to be versus what it was, in terms of application to practice at the front line of patient care. The study reveals that confidence levels in dealing with pressure ulceration had been significantly altered by the training session that was being implemented. It also raised concerns on the methodological approaches being used in the education and training of care staff, which should ideally lead them to be proactive with patients in their care. The study provides an insight into the need for a strategic and targeted approach to pressure ulceration avoidance education, which is tailored to individual learning needs through supervision and mentorship as part of clinical education.

Invest in the future: “Hands-on Radiology” summer school

PurposeThe field of radiology is currently underestimated by undergraduate medical students. The “Hands-on Radiology” summer school was established to improve radiology knowledge and interest among undergraduates. The purpose of this questionnaire survey was to analyze whether a radiological hands-on course is an effective tool to reach and motivate undergraduate students.Materials and methodsThe three-day course held in August 2022 included lectures, quizzes, and small group hands-on workshops focusing on practical work with simulators. All participants (n = 30) were asked to rate their knowledge and motivation to specialize in radiology at the beginning of the summer school (day 1) and the end (day 3). The questionnaires included multiple choice questions, 10-point scale questions and open comment questions. The second questionnaire (day 3) included additional questions regarding the program (topic choice, length, etc.).ResultsOut of 178 applicants, 30 students (16.8%) from 21 universities were selected to participate (50% female and 50% male students). All students completed both questionnaires. The overall rating was 9.47 on a 10-point scale. While the self-reported knowledge level increased from 6.47 (day 1) to 7.50 (day 3), almost all participants (96.7%, n = 29/30) mentioned an increased interest in the specialization of radiology after the event. Interestingly, most students (96.7%) preferred onsite teaching instead of online teaching and chose residents over board-certified radiologists as teachers.ConclusionIntensive three-day courses are valuable tools to strengthen interest in radiology and increase knowledge among medical students. Particularly, students who already have a tendency to specialize in radiology are further motivated.

Factors associated with the frequency of eye examinations among adults in Poland - a nationwide cross-sectional survey, December2022.

The eye examination is a simple and effective intervention that involves a series of tests to evaluate vision and check for eye disease. This study aimed to assess the frequency of eye examinations among adults in Poland and to identify factors associated with the frequency of such examinations. The questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey was carried out in December 2022 on a non-probability quota sample of 1,076 adults in Poland. A computer-assisted web interview technique was used. The study questionnaire included a set of questions on eye health, eye examinations, and socio-demographic characteristics. Of the 1,076 respondents, 7.4% had an eye examination in the last 30 days, almost one-quarter (24.2%) had an eye examination more than 1 month but not more than 12 months ago, 13.9% had an eye examination in the last 1-2 years, and 24.1% had an eye examination more than 2 years ago but not more than 3 years ago. Among the respondents, 7.1% declared that they had never had an eye examination. Of the 12 different factors analyzed in this study, wearing spectacles or lenses and self-reported level of knowledge on eye diseases were the only factors significantly associated with higher odds of eye examinations in the last 12 months or 2 years. There was no significant impact of gender, educational level, place of residence, health status, or economic status (p>0.05) on the frequency of eye examinations, neither in the last 12 months nor in the last 2-3 years. The study showed that a significant percentage of adults in Poland do not have regular eye examinations. There was a lack of socio-economic differences (including place of residence and economic status) in the frequency of eye examinations. There is an urgent need for health education on preventive eye examinations and eye care among adults in Poland.

Abstract B092: Examining knowledge and willingness to participate in randomized clinical trials among patients with and without cancer

Abstract Background Randomized clinical trials (CT) are often the major and only source of life saving treatment for patients with cancer. Knowledge and perceptions regarding CTs may be important determinants to patient’s decision to enroll in a CT. We examined predictors of knowledge and willingness to participate in a CT and compared these outcomes among patients with and without a history of cancer. Methods We used questionnaire data from 3,865 adults, ages 18 and older, who participated in the Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS) 5 cycle 4. Predictors examined included sociodemographic characteristics (self-identified gender and race and ethnicity, age, education, and income), smoking status, and history of cancer. Overall knowledge and CT participation outcomes included self-reported level of knowledge (a lot vs. a little or don’t know), prior invitation to participate in CT (yes/no), and participation in CT (yes/no). We also explored sources of information, knowledge of clinicaltrials.gov, and reasons and motivators to consider participation. Among cancer survivors, we also examined prior participation in CT for cancer (yes/no) and prior discission of a CT as treatment option (yes/no). Weighted bivariate tests were calculated using chi-square tests. Result Overall, 50% of the population was female, had a mean age of 48.5 years, 50.2% identified as female, 38.1% had some college education, and 58.7% self-identified as non-Hispanic White. A total of 9.1% had a history of cancer. Majority of participants reported low levels of knowledge about CT (89.2% vs. 9.2% lot of knowledge) with similar self-reported knowledge between patients with and without cancer. Majority of participants had never heard of clinicaltrials.gov (90.5% vs. 6.7% had heard), never been invited to participate in a CT (87% vs. 8.9% had been invited), and if invited, 52% did not participate in a CT (vs. 45% reported participating). Among patients with cancer, 85% of adults had discussed a CT as a treatment option, but only 4.8% had participated in a CT. Majority of participants agreed “a lot or somewhat” that they would participate in CT because they were helping others (65.7% vs 31.1%), were encouraged by their doctor (64.7% vs. 31.8%) or family and friends (57.3% vs. 38.9%), desired to get better (84.8% vs. 11.2%), desire to try to kind of care (63.9% vs. 32.2%), and standard of care was not covered by insurance (65.4% vs. 30.5%). In bivariate analysis, variable associations between sociodemographic predictors and CT outcomes were found. Conclusion We found low levels of CT knowledge and access, despite high reported strong motivations to participate in a CT. By identifying factors that could be strongly linked to motivators of CT participation we could develop future interventions that guide cancer CT recruitment strategies. Citation Format: Margaret Pichardo, Catherine A. Ochieng, Yaideliz M. Romero-Ramos, Ana I. Velazquez. Examining knowledge and willingness to participate in randomized clinical trials among patients with and without cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 15th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2022 Sep 16-19; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr B092.

Patient perspectives and self-rated knowledge of nerve transfer surgery for restoring upper limb function in spinal cord injury.

Nerve transfer surgery has the potential to restore upper limb function in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI); however, there has been limited exploration of patient perception of nerve transfer. To explore the perspectives of patients with chronic SCI (>2 years from injury) on nerve transfer surgery, and to determine if an educational intervention improved participants' perceived knowledge levels about the procedure. Mixed-methods study including qualitative semi-structured interviews and self-reported rating scales. Pre- and post-interviews were completed following an educational presentation. Two local SCI clinics. Ten patients with chronic traumatic SCI and neurological level of injury C3-C7 (motor complete or incomplete), recruited via snowball sampling (six male, four female). An educational slide presentation on nerve transfer concepts. The primary study outcome measure is the participants' responses to interview questions. The secondary study outcome measure is their self-reported knowledge levels of nerve transfer before and after education. Regaining upper limb function was a priority for all participants. Although most participants had heard of nerve transfer, none were offered it at the time of their SCI, and only two stated that they had any peers who had undergone the procedure. The educational module significantly increased self-rated scores on understanding of nerve transfer (p < .05). Although all participants were open to nerve transfer after the educational module, they described weighing different factors, including (1) potential for loss versus gain of function, (2) inadequate knowledge about nerve transfer, (3) recovery time, and (4) determining their eligibility for the surgery. These findings suggest that people with SCI have limited understanding of nerve transfer as a potential option and would benefit from educational opportunities to help them make informed decisions. This study may inform the development of patient resources to improve pre-surgical consultation and informed decision-making.

Talking about Climate Change and Environmental Degradation with Patients in Primary Care: A Cross-Sectional Survey on Knowledge, Potential Domains of Action and Points of View of General Practitioners.

Purpose: General practitioners (GPs) could play a role in mitigating climate change by raising awareness of its impact on human health and implementing changes to improve population health and decreasing environmental footprints. The aim of this study was to assess GPs’ knowledge and perspectives about the health impacts of climate change. Method: A questionnaire was sent to 1972 GPs in the French-speaking part of Switzerland. Knowledge of the impact of environmental degradations and climate change on health and willingness to address climate change with patients, to be exemplary and to act as role models were surveyed as well as demographic characteristics of GPs. Results: Respondents (N = 497) expressed a high level of self-reported knowledge regarding climate change, although it was lower for more specific topics, such as planetary health or health–environment co-benefits. Participants mostly agreed that it is necessary to adapt clinical practice to the health impacts of climate change and that they have a role in providing information on climate change and its links to human health. Conclusion: Most of the GPs were concerned about environmental and climate degradation. However, this study revealed a gap between the willingness of GPs to integrate the impact of climate change on health into their clinical activities and their lack of overall knowledge and scientific evidence on effective interventions. A promising way forward may be to develop co-benefit interventions adapted to the clinical setting on diet, active mobility and connecting with nature.

Elucidating a Silent Illness: Hepatitis B Knowledge Among Asian Individuals in an Urban Center.

Despite comprising less than 6% of the US population, Asian individuals make up more than half of the approximately 1.6 million chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections in the United States. The purpose of this investigation was to identify characteristics associated with HBV knowledge in this disproportionately affected population. A cross-sectional, multilingual survey study using convenience sampling was conducted in a Midwestern urban city to collect information on respondents' demographics, health care access, and HBV knowledge. Hepatitis B virus knowledge was categorized into epidemiology, natural history, transmission, and vaccination. Data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis and Spearman correlation tests. Of the 174 individuals who completed surveys, 139 (79.9%) were Asian. Characteristics of univariate analyses associated with higher knowledge scores included younger age (18-49 years), proficiency in reading English, college education, current employment status, physician using preferred language, last physician's visit in 2018 or prior, perceived lack of time to see a physician, use of emergency department, prior HBV vaccination, prior HBV testing, higher level of self-reported knowledge about HBV, and acquiring health information from the Internet, messaging applications, friends, and family (P < .05). In the multivariable analysis, shorter residency in the United States (0-10 years), current employment status, having heard of HBV, and confidence in their HBV knowledge were associated with higher knowledge scores. Knowledge deficits existed in our study population regarding HBV transmission, vaccination, and epidemiology, while knowledge was higher regarding HBV natural history. Education efforts should be designed to improve knowledge deficits about HBV for individuals with risk factors using culturally sensitive Internet and social media platforms.

Assessing healthcare provider knowledge of human trafficking.

Background and objectivesHuman trafficking is a significant problem in which healthcare workers are in a unique position to intervene. This study sought to determine the self-reported knowledge levels of healthcare providers most likely to come in direct contact with victims of human trafficking.MethodsAn anonymous survey assessing self-reported knowledge of human trafficking was developed and distributed online. Demographic information and questions pertaining to training and knowledge of trafficking in a healthcare setting were asked. The primary outcomes were descriptive statistics and secondary outcomes were comparisons among demographic groups. Qualitative methodology via content analysis was implemented on an open-ended question.ResultsThe 6,603 respondents represented all regions of the country. Medical, nursing, and physician assistant students comprised 23% of the sample, while 40% were either physicians, fellows, or residents. Less than half the respondents (42%) have received formal training in human trafficking, while an overwhelming majority (93%) believe they would benefit by such training. Overall, respondents thought their level of knowledge of trafficking was average to below average (mean = 2.64 on a 5-point scale). There were significant differences in knowledge of trafficking by age group (p < .001), region (p < .001), and educational training level (p < .001). 949 respondents (14.4%) provided free-text comments that further described their opinions.ConclusionMost respondents stated they have not received training but felt they would benefit from it. There were significant differences between demographic groups. Further innovation is needed to design a universally appropriate curriculum on human trafficking that is accessible to all healthcare providers as well as mandatory training programs for healthcare institutions.

1107 Supplementing Orthopaedic Education outside of the Medical Curriculum: The Utility of a 1-Day Orthopaedic Revision Course for Medical Undergraduates

Abstract Introduction Orthopaedic undergraduate education is both minimal and variable across UK medical schools. Furthermore, the clinical skills required to treat musculoskeletal injuries have been found inadequate by several studies assessing UK medical graduates. Method Orthopaedic revision courses organized by the student surgical society consisted of lectures and workshops covering clinical orthopaedic knowledge and skills required for university assessments. Five identical courses were run between December 2017 and December 2019 following the completion of fourth year’s musculoskeletal clinical block. Course tutors ranged from foundation year doctors (57%) to orthopaedic consultants and trainees (43%). An anonymous feedback form was handed out at each event and 5-point Likert scale questioning assessed participant perceptions prior to and following the course. Results This course led to a significant mean increase in students’ perceived knowledge levels with an average increase of 0.96 (19.2%) across all clinical examinations and lectures (p &amp;lt; 0.01). Tutor grade did not affect mean participant self-reported value of station, with stations taught by consultants and surgical trainees showing similar results to stations taught by FY doctors (p = 0.776). Conclusions The feedback revealed significant increases in student self-reported knowledge levels while poor pre-course scores reported might suggest inadequate coverage of orthopaedics in the undergraduate curriculum. The similarity in results when assessing the quality of tutorship suggests that FY doctors can be equally as valuable teaching tools for such courses as surgical trainees and consultants. These results suggest 1-day orthopaedic revision courses of this format can be highly beneficial in supplementing the undergraduate curriculum.

Public perceptions of deer management in Scotland: the impact of place of residence, knowledge and demographic factors

ABSTRACT Deer have a prominent public and political profile in Scotland because of their iconic status, environmental and socio-economic impacts, and the long-running controversies surrounding their management. However, few studies have examined public perceptions of deer management. This article investigates whether rural and urban place of residence and other demographic factors are significant influences on public perceptions of deer management. A survey (n = 184) in rural and urban locations in Scotland explored public perceptions of deer management in contrasting localities. Place of residence, demographic information and self-reported knowledge levels were analysed to examine their impact on perceptions. Respondents generally agreed that deer management is necessary, with fencing and culling the first and second most preferred management options. Rural or urban place of residence had a limited influence on opinions of deer management, with engagement in land-based employment playing a more important role. Self-reported understanding of deer management was the most important factor in shaping opinions; those with greater knowledge were more likely to support deer culling. The findings suggest that improved public education concerning the need for deer management would be beneficial, increasing public understanding of management practices.

4. University of Pittsburgh Plastic Surgery Virtual Sub-Internship: An Evolutionary Response to the Pandemic

Body: Background: Plastic surgery programs ceased to offer in-person sub-internships due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To overcome this hurdle, the University of Pittsburgh developed a virtual sub-internship (vSub-I) to provide an overview of plastic surgery and insight into the residency program. This study aims to present the vSub-I program and objectively assess its impact on student education and satisfaction. Methods: The vSub-I program consists of a virtual two-week experience, in which the student attends education and simulation sessions as well as one-on-one meetings with representative faculty/residents. Educational sessions include core conferences, grand rounds, journal clubs, indications conferences (head and neck, hand, breast, and pediatric plastic surgery), and case-review sessions discussing the breadth of plastic surgery including aesthetic surgery, breast surgery, pediatric plastic surgery, hand surgery, facial trauma, head and neck, and general reconstruction. Simulation sessions include cleft lip and palate, breast reduction, and flap markings. The student also participates in virtual social events with residents. Each student gives a 15-minutes talk during grand rounds about their journey and research/clinical interests. To assess this innovative program, student satisfaction was evaluated using an 8-question survey rated with a five-point Likert scale. Self-reported level of knowledge was assessed before and after the vSub-I using a 16-question survey rated with a five-point Likert scale. Results: The vSub-I program was attended by 20 students distributed into five consecutive two-week blocks (four students per block) between August-October. The program included 50% males and 50% females, 25% underrepresented minorities and 10% international medical graduates. The mean overall level of knowledge before and after completion of the vSub-I was 2.84 (SD±0.98) and 3.78 (SD±0.77), respectively, and mean level of improvement was +1.10 (SD±0.82, p<0.0001). Mean overall satisfaction was 4.83 (SD±0.44). Importantly, all students felt they gained plastic surgery knowledge, insight of the culture and clinical breadth/volume, and insight of the faculty and residents of the residency program. Conclusion: The vSub-I emerged as a response to the challenges of this new era. This study suggests that vSub-I offers a highly satisfactory experience by allowing direct involvement with our training program, and easy and effective incorporation of plastic surgery concepts.

Does the Talkable programme improve caregiver knowledge and confidence in assisting their child’s language learning? A pilot study

This paper reports a preliminary evaluation of the [Talkable] 10-week language learning programme. This training programme aims to help caregivers provide a rich language learning environment in a child’s first 3 years of life through the provision of evidence-based information and practical strategies to promote language development delivered primarily via mobile application. Participants in the study completed pre- and post-programme surveys on a range of questions relating to their knowledge and confidence in assisting their child’s language learning. Results indicated significant improvements in participant’s self-reported levels of knowledge about early language development and ways to assist their child’s language learning, while level of concern about their child’s language development remained fairly constant. These findings provide preliminary support for the use of [Talkable] in primary prevention, and direction for future development of the programme. Findings also add to the currently limited evidence-base for providing early language primary prevention programmes via mobile application.

Point-of-care diagnostic lung ultrasound is highly applicable to the practice of medicine in Saudi Arabia but the current skills gap limits its use.

CONTEXT:Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has put a spotlight on point-of-care diagnostic lung ultrasound (POCDLUS). However, the spectra of respiratory disease and resources available for investigation vary internationally. The applicability of POCDLUS to internal medicine (IM) practice in Saudi Arabia and the current use by Saudi physicians are unknown.AIMS:The aim of the present study was to determine the applicability of POCDLUS to IM practice in Saudi Arabia and quantify the residents' current skills, accreditation, and use of POCDLUS.METHODS:A questionnaire was distributed to the IM residents at our institution to assess their knowledge, use of POCDLUS, and their perceptions of its applicability in IM.STATISTICAL ANALYSIS:Standard descriptive statistical techniques were used. Categorical data, presented as frequency, were compared using the Chi-squared test. The Likert scale responses, presented as mean ± standard deviation, were compared with a Student's t-test.RESULTS:In total, 100 residents participated (response rate 92.6%) and reported that POCDLUS was applicable to their practice. Identifying pleural effusions was most applicable. A small proportion (n = 7) had received training, nine used POCDLUS regularly, none were accredited and the overall self-reported level of knowledge was poor.CONCLUSIONS:Whilst POCDLUS is applicable to IM practice in Saudi Arabia, the significant skills gap preclude the provision of a POCDLUS service. As COVID-19 can cause an interstitial syndrome, our pandemic preparation response should include POCDLUS training. The current study is supported by a similar Canadian study and the international standardisation of POCDLUS training may be feasible. The findings of the current study may facilitate the development of POCDLUS training programs for internists throughout Saudi Arabia.

Knowledge, Attitude and Self-Reported Performance and Challenges of Hand Hygiene Using Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers Among Healthcare Workers During COVID-19 Pandemic at a Tertiary Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background and ObjectiveUnderstanding and consistent hand hygiene practice by alcohol-based hand sanitizer is a cardinal step to stay safe from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. This study aimed to assess the self-reported level of knowledge, attitude, practice, and challenges to practice hand hygiene by alcohol-based hand sanitizers among healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Jimma Medical Center, Ethiopia.MethodsBetween April and June 2020, a questionnaire-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using 96 study participants. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21 and described.ResultsAll of the study participants (96) were at the forefront of the fight against COVID-19. Most of the study participants were nurses (27) and pharmacists (21). Their mean age was 28.69±4.048 years. All of them were practicing different COVID-19 prevention methods. In this study, 95.8% of the respondents used alcohol-based hand sanitizers. The majority of the respondents were knowledgeable (93.8%), had a favorable attitude (74%), and good hand hygiene practices (76%) by alcohol-based hand sanitizers. However, 84.5% of the respondents were confronted with challenges during alcohol-based hand sanitizer use due to it is unavailable 66 (68.8%), expensive 50 (52.1%), forgetting 11 (11.5%), experiencing health-associated risks (skin irritation (28.1%), skin dryness (62.5%), ocular irritation (11.5%)), etc.ConclusionThe majority of respondents had good knowledge, attitude, and practices of alcohol-based hand sanitizer. But there were some items of their evaluation with relatively low scores that revealed some room for improvements. Additionally, the respondents reported various challenges. Therefore, to achieve and sustain changes, the hand hygiene promotion strategic plan needs a great concern.