Taif Hospitals Research Articles

Prevalence musculoskeletal disorders among healthcare practitioners in Taif, Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study

Background: Musculoskeletal complaints (MSCs) are a major complaint among Saudi healthcare practitioners. Increased awareness of risk factors may decrease in the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders. In Taif, Saudi Arabia hospitals, little information is available about the prevalence of musculoskeletal issues and the specific risk factors. Aim: The purpose of this study was to estimate the incidence and factors associated with the development of musculoskeletal disorders among healthcare practitioners in Taif city, Saudi Arabia. Methods: In Taif, Saudi Arabia, a cross-sectional study via a web-based survey was carried out. The survey using Nordic questionnaires for musculoskeletal disorders analysis had been sent to healthcare practitioners at Taif hospitals, including physicians, nurses, lab workers, and other allied medical practitioners, through an email. Categorical and numerical variables were presented by descriptive statistics. Logistic regression analysis to determine the relationship between independent factors and musculoskeletal disorders. Results: 124 participants completed the survey. 54 (43.5%) males and 70 (56.5%) females. 95% and 92% of subjects participating in musculoskeletal symptoms in the last 7 days and 12 months preceding the scan, respectively. lower back pain was the most often reported musculoskeletal symptom by healthcare practitioners (75.8%). Also, in the last 7 days before the survey (67.7%). Neck pain was the second most common musculoskeletal. Females are much more susceptible to lower back pain. Standing for an extended period of time was linked to lower back pain. Neck pain has been linked to excessive bending and twisting, standing for long period during regular practice, and serving large number of patients >15 patients/day. 19.4% of participants were forced to take sick leave for reasons related to MSCs. 66% of the participants recorded that they had pain after starting work, 35% received a medical attention, while 54% of them took medication to relieve pain. Conclusion: MSCs are more common in healthcare practitioners at Taif city, Saudi Arabia, with the low back and neck being the most typically afflicted. MSCs are more common in physiotherapists then nurses. Females more affected than males, age between 31 to 40 years. The most commonly reported work risk factors for the development of MSCs were standing for long periods of time, working in awkward or uncomfortable place of work, and serving an excessive number of patients in a day. Physical exercise can reduce the risk of MSCs in healthcare practitioners.

Association Between Smartphone Usage and Primary Headaches in Taif, Saudi Arabia: A Hospital-Based Study.

Background Integrating smartphones into human life has transformed various daily activities. Numerous symptoms, including headaches, have been linked to smartphone use. The excessive use of these devices raises significant health concerns. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between smartphone use and the progression, type, and severity of primary headaches, as well as the necessity for both abortive and prophylactic medications in treating such conditions. Materials and methods In this study, we utilized a cross-sectional survey involving 403 participants aged 14 years and older, all experiencing primary headaches and seeking care at three governmental hospitals in Taif, Saudi Arabia. The participants were divided into two groups based on their smartphone usage: high and low smartphone users. Data were collected through a hospital-based questionnaire administered across the three centers. Descriptive analysis and Pearson chi-square tests were conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 21 (released 2012; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States). Results Of the participants, 128 (31.8%) were classified as low users, while 275 (68.2%) were identified as high users. The most frequently reported type of headache was undiagnosed headache, among 109 (27%), followed by migraine, at 86 (21.3%). Headaches were severe in 112 (40.9%) of cases and moderate in 134 (48.9%) of users. Around 62 (72.1%) of participants diagnosed with migraine reported a severe impact on their daily lives. In terms of medication usage, 166 (60.6%) of participants reported consuming zero to five pills monthly, while 52 (19%) reported taking more than 10 pills monthly. Additionally, 58 (21.2%) of participants utilized prophylactic medications. Conclusion No significant association was observed between smartphone use and the impact of headaches. Notably, pain severity was higher among low smartphone users who reported a high intake of medications. Migraine was the most severe and intense headache type. On average, the participants consumed fewer than five pills per month.

Competency in electrocardiogram interpretation among medical interns and residents of internal medicine and ER residents

Background: For both undergraduate and graduate medical students, understanding how to interpret an ECG is essential. It has been demonstrated that accurate ECG interpretation influences the course of care for several acute cardiovascular emergencies, such as acute myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, and cardiac arrest patients. Aim: This study aims to assess the Competency in Electrocardiogram Interpretation Among Medical interns and Residents of Internal Medicine and ER residents. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted including intern medical students at Taif University and IM and ER residents who are actively doing residency training programs in Taif Hospitals including (King Abdul-Aziz Specialist Hospital, Al-Hada Armed Forces Hospital, and King Faisal Hospital). The survey was conducted from November 01, 2022, to November 30, 2023. ECGs were selected from the ECG textbooks and ECG web blogs and will be reviewed by two cardiologists. After the ECG strip selection, the reviewed structured questionnaires were distributed to the survey participants. Results: A total of 163 medical interns and residents were included. Exact 79 (48.5%) aged less than 25 years and 84 (51.5%) aged 25 years or more with a mean age of 25.1 ± 3.2 years old. A total of 88 (54%) were females. Overall ECG competency level among medical interns and internal medicine and ER residents. A total of 59 (36.2%) had an overall high competency level with ECG, 79 (48.5%) had moderate ECG competency, and 25 (15.3%) had a low competency level. The overall competency score ranged from 1 to 10 with a mean score of 6.6 ± 1.9 points out of 10. Receiving training and having an ACLS course was significantly associated with competence level (P< 0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, the current study showed that medical interns and residents in Taif showed an average competence level regarding ECG interpretation with higher competence e among those who were trained and received ACLS courses.

Charting The Course; A Systematic Review On Healthcare Leadership Styles And Their Symphony With Employee Satisfaction In Saudi Arabian Health Administration

Background; Effective leadership is essential for the success of healthcare organizations, particularly in Saudi Arabia where the healthcare sector is undergoing rapid transformation. Leadership styles within health administration roles play a significant role in shaping employee satisfaction and organizational outcomes. Understanding prevalent leadership styles and their impact on employee satisfaction is crucial for enhancing the overall performance of healthcare organizations in Saudi Arabia.
 Purpose; The study aimed to evaluate prevalent healthcare leadership styles and their impact on employee satisfaction in health administration roles in Saudi Arabia's healthcare sector.
 Method; A cross-sectional descriptive research design was employed, and data were collected from healthcare employees in government hospitals in Taif, Saudi Arabia. A structured questionnaire was used to assess leadership styles and employee satisfaction, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation coefficient analysis, independent t-tests, and multiple linear regressions.
 Results; The study identified three prevalent healthcare leadership styles; Autocratic, Democratic, and Laissez-Faire. Significant positive correlations were found between these leadership styles and employee satisfaction. Autocratic, Democratic, and Laissez-Faire leadership styles were all positively associated with employee satisfaction. Gender differences in leadership styles and job satisfaction were also explored, revealing variations across genders within healthcare administration roles.
 Conclusion; The study underscores the importance of effective leadership in healthcare administration for promoting employee satisfaction. Healthcare organizations in Saudi Arabia should prioritize leadership development programs tailored to enhance leadership skills and foster positive leadership practices. By understanding and implementing effective leadership strategies, healthcare administrators can create supportive work environments that contribute to overall employee satisfaction and organizational success.

Establishment of a local diagnostic reference level for computed tomography chest and abdomen in two different cities in Saudi Arabia

Background and aimSpiral computed tomography (CT) scans, which are considered a high-contrast resolution, quick and cross-sectional imaging technique, have grown in popularity as a result of technological advancements. However, these advancements have brought with them the potential for significantly increased radiation doses to the patient. Consequently, many organizations recommended optimization and establishing diagnostic reference levels. The aim of the current study was to assess CT radiation dose and propose a local diagnostic reference level (LDRL) for the adult trunk [chest and abdomen] using CT dose parameters such as CT dose index volume (CTDIvol) and dose length product (DLP) as well as to compare the practices for aforementioned examinations between two hospitals in Taif and Abha cities in Saudi Arabia. Materials and methodsData from 428 patients (216 for abdomen and 212 for chest) who were examined in two hospitals in Taif and Abha City in Saudi Arabia from December 2022 to March 2023, are used in this study. The data for hospitals in Taif and Abha are presented as ‘T’ and ‘A’ throughout this manuscript. The parameters of exposure and slice thickness were recorded in a specially designed data sheet together with the gender, age and patients morphometric. Microsoft Excel version 2010 was used to analyze results and plot the figures. The LDRL was achieved from the third quartile of CTDIvol and DLP for each hospital and examination. ResultsThe average DLP (mGy-cm) and CTDIvol (mGy) for the chest and abdomen were 243 mGy cm, 5.8 mGy and 549 mGy cm, 8.6 mGy respectively. The average effective dose (ED) for chest and abdomen were 5.10 and 21.10 mSv, respectively. The proposed LDRL for the chest and abdomen were 6.9 mGy (CTDIvol), 375 mGy-cm (DLP), 7.8 mGy (CTDIvol), and 747 (DLP) mGy-cm, respectively. ConclusionHospital ‘A’ irradiated patients with a higher dose for the abdomen exam than Hospital ‘T’, but both hospitals agreed on the amount of radiation dose received by patients for chest imaging. The proposed LDRL for two examinations was less than the DRL obtained from the literature.

Enhancing Preoperative Education Provision in Taif Hospitals: Identifying and Overcoming Obstacles Faced by Nurses

Enhancing Preoperative Education Provision in Taif Hospitals: Identifying and Overcoming Obstacles Faced by Nurses

Molecular Detection of Virulence Genes, Biofilm Formation, and Antibiotic Resistance in Pathogenic Staphylococcus aureus from Taif Hospitals

The bacterium Staphylococcus can cause various health problems, particularly in hospitalized patients. Therefore, the current study aimed to isolate methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains, test their capability to form a biofilm, and detect genes related to virulence and biofilm formation. Bacterial isolates were collected from the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Children’s hospital in Taif Governorate, Saudi Arabia, and identified using primers for mecA and nuc1. They were tested for resistance against twelve widely distributed antibiotics and biofilm formation capability. The MRSA isolates were tested for fnbA, fnbB, and SCCmec. Among 100 isolates, 24 were identified as Staphylococcus aureus, and most of them were MRSA. Most isolates were resistant to cefrizine and cefepime (96%). The isolates showed higher resistance to amoxicillin and ampicillin (92%), followed by aztreonam (83%). Two isolates, S15 and S17, were high-grade positive for biofilm formation, 62.5% were medium-grade, and 20.8% were low-grade positive. Two of the isolates, S11 and S16, tested negative for biofilm formation. Furthermore, mecAI. ncu1 was found in all of the isolates, except S11. Most isolates had SCCmecIII and SCCmecV. All isolates were habituated to fnbB, while fnbA was not found in S3 and S11. These results indicated that PCR techniques offer rapid, simple, and accurate determination of the genetic profile and biofilm production capability of MRSA, and can be used in clinical diagnosis as well as to monitor the spread of antibiotic-resistant S. aureus strains.

A correlational study of breastfeeding duration among Saudi mothers: The role of self-efficacy, intention, and social support.

Breastfeeding is an essential source of nutrition for infants and offers numerous benefits for both the mother and child. Despite the consensus on its advantages, limited research in Saudi Arabia has explored the factors influencing breastfeeding duration. This study aimed to examine the relationships between breastfeeding self-efficacy, intention, social support, and breastfeeding duration. The study employed a correlational research design, and data were collected from three armed forces hospitals in Taif, Saudi Arabia, from December 2020 to February 2021. The samples comprised 356 conveniently selected breastfeeding mothers, assessed using the Breastfeeding Personal Efficacy Beliefs Inventory, Modified Infant Feeding Intention Scale, and Exclusive Breastfeeding Social Support Scale. Simple linear regressions were conducted for data analysis. Breastfeeding duration was divided into two groups. Group 1 consisted of mothers still breastfeeding at the time of data collection, while Group 2 comprised those who had discontinued breastfeeding. Of the total samples, 51.6% (n = 184) of mothers were classified under Group 1, while the remaining 48.4% (n = 172) were allocated to Group 2. Specifically, 78.3% of mothers had stopped breastfeeding by the time their infants were six months old, and 93.3% intended to introduce formula feeding at three months. In Group 1, the results revealed that self-efficacy (β = 0.625, p <0.001), intention (β = 0.643, p <0.001), and social support (β = 0.612, p <0.001) were positively associated with breastfeeding duration. Similarly, in Group 2, a strong positive correlation was observed between self-efficacy (β = 0.72, p <0.001), intention (β = 0.73, p <0.001), social support (β = 0.699, p <0.001), and breastfeeding duration. These three factors jointly explained 40% of the variance in breastfeeding duration in Group 1 (adjusted R2 = 0.4) and 50% in Group 2 (adjusted R2 = 0.5). Breastfeeding intention was found to have a more significant impact on breastfeeding duration than self-efficacy and social support. These results can inform nurses and midwives in supporting breastfeeding mothers by providing them with the necessary information and increasing their awareness of breastfeeding-related factors.

Factors affecting Nursing Performance during COVID- 19 Period at Taif Government Hospitals

During epidemics, nurses play a crucial role in reducing direct exposures and offering direct patient care. The main purpose of the present study was to identify the factors affecting nursing performance during the COVID-19 period in Taif Government hospitals, Taif City, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 580 nurses from thirteen government hospitals in Taif, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using a survey consisting of a 24-item checklist. Descriptive statistics were done, and inferential statistics were done by SPSS. Ethical considerations were strictly followed throughout the study. The findings of this study demonstrated that the constant fear of infection, uncertainty about the future, and nurse burnout were the main factors influencing nursing performance. Additionally, the results indicated that more than half of staff nurses in different hospitals in Taif reported experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of mental health problems, anxiety, depression, and burnout. Lastly, nursing shortages, prolonged shifts, limited access to Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs), and increased workloads were the main secondary contributory factors affecting nursing performance. Evidence from the study suggests that nurses across government hospitals in Saudi Arabia require massive support to handle mounting COVID-19 infections. From receiving PPEs to minimizing staffing shortages and emotional support and counselling, nurses must be at the forefront of care. This will aid nurses in carrying out their duties effectively in the fight against COVID-19. Most importantly, hospitals must ensure that all nurses operate in conducive environments with increased attention to their physical and mental wellbeing.

The Use of Antibiotics for the Prevention of Surgical Site Infections in Two Government Hospitals in Taif, Saudi Arabia: A Retrospective Study.

BackgroundSurgical site infections (SSIs) are among the most common postoperative complications. To reduce the occurrence of surgical wound infections, suitable antimicrobials should be administered.Aim of the workThis study investigated the prophylactic use of antibiotics to prevent SSIs, in terms of agents and/or combination preferences, and the adherence of surgeons to both national and international guidelines of surgical antibiotic prophylaxis in Taif city government hospitals.MethodsThis is a retrospective study using a chart review of patients' medical records in two government hospitals in Taif city, Saudi Arabia, from July 2016 to July 2018. While maintaining the confidentiality of the patient’s data, it was collected and analyzed using the chi-squared and Fisher’s exact tests, and the difference between means was tested using the student’s t-test.ResultsProphylactic antibiotics were used in 157 patients who had surgery (Group 1) while 52 patients did not receive preoperative antibiotics (Group 2). The most commonly used prophylactic antibiotics were metronidazole, cefuroxime, cefazolin, and ceftriaxone. Other antimicrobials used included cefotaxime, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, cephalexin, and amoxicillin. Surgical site infections developed in one patient of those who received antibiotics preoperatively and in three Group 2 patients. The mean hospital length of stay in Group 1 was 38.5±9.2 hours, and 57.3±12.1 hours in Group 2 patients. The types of antibiotics used were generally within the scope of national and international recommended guidelines.ConclusionThe use of preoperative prophylactic antibiotics significantly reduces the development of surgical site infections and the mean length of hospital stay. Various antimicrobial drugs that were used prophylactically in surgical practice are within the recommendations of both national and international guidelines.

Distinction of Breast Masses from Benign to Malignant using Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced in Tertiary Care Hospitals of Taif, Saudi Arabia: A Retrospective Study

Background: Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer among women throughout the world. A range of noninvasive techniques have been employed for early prevention. In health-care practice, however, quality and sensitivity remained critical. Objective: The aim of this study is to see how well Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRIs) and Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) techniques can detect breast cancer and distinguish between malignant and benign lesions. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted at the Taif Hospitals, Saudi Arabia. The Picture Archiving and Communication System was used to acquire medical records and data from 50 individuals with probable breast cancer, and breast MRI pictures were analyzed. Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) radiologist reports and DCE-MRI kinetic curves were evaluated. Excel was also used to test the sensitivity and specificity of breast MRI. Results: According to the BI-RADS results, biopsies, and breast MRI data, 52 percent of 50 patients were categorized as benign, 24 percent as malignant, and 24 percent had no abnormalities. Biopsy revealed that 61.5 percent of the malignant lesions were benign, whereas 38.5 percent were appropriately identified as cancerous. The majority of malignant tumors were discovered in patients over the age of 50. The washout curve correctly identified 60% of the malignant lesions and 40% of the benign lesions. Our data demonstrated the usefulness of MRI in detecting breast cancers by analyzing BI-RADS and utilizing DCE-MRI. False-positive, on the other hand, can lead to unnecessary biopsies. Conclusion: Breast cancer is more common among women of their fifties and beyond. Biopsies, breast MRIs, and kinetic curve analysis can all be utilized to differentiate between benign and malignant breast masses with high sensitivity and specificity.

Glycemic control after sleeve gastrectomy in Taif Hospitals, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

This study was designed to assess the glycemic control after sleeve gastrectomy surgeries in overweight and obese patients with T2DM as well as the associated factors that may affect glycemic control in those patients. We conducted a retrospective study based on retrieving the required information from patient's files in Medical Records Departments for type II diabetic overweight and obese patients who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), in Taif, from January 2017 to December 2019. The follow-up duration for all patient was three-to-six months postoperatively. We found that LSG achieved a significant glycemic control in overweight and obese patients with T2DM. Preoperatively, mean ± SD fasting blood glucose, random blood glucose and hemoglobin A1C were 160.7 ± 65.6 mg/dL, 237.4 ± 66.9 mg/dL and 8.4 ± 1.5%, respectively. Postoperatively, mean ± SD fasting blood glucose, random blood glucose and hemoglobin A1C were 103.4 ± 36 mg/dL, 113.6 ± 15.7 mg/dL and 6.2 ± 0.9% (P < .001, for each). Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that increasing age was the most significant independent predictor that affect diabetic control in our study [odds ratio, 1.141, 95% confidence interval (1.015 to 1.282), P = .027)]. We concluded that LSG is a successful treatment option for glycemic control in overweight and obese patients with T2DM especially younger patients usually three-to-six months following surgery.

Level of knowledge on the prevention of surgical site infection among physicians in Taif City, Saudi Arabia

Background: Surgical site infection (SSI) is a significant cause of morbidity, mortality, and increased hospital stay in patients who underwent surgery. At present, there are reports on the poor knowledge of physicians in Saudi Arabia regarding SSI prevention, warranting further investigation. This study aimed to determine the level of knowledge of physicians in Taif City, Saudi Arabia. Methods: This study utilized a cross-sectional research design involving 80 physicians who are working in the surgery departments in Taif hospitals. Results: Overall, the knowledge level of physicians on the prevention of surgical skin infection was adequate. Although interns showed lower levels of knowledge, significant associations were observed between the type of physician in the surgical ward with antibiotic prophylaxis, systemic warming, and method of hair removal in the incision site, implying variability in the level of knowledge of physicians in the chosen locale. Conclusion: The level of knowledge of physicians is adequate, but an effort to increase the knowledge of interns in surgical skin infection prevention needs to be promoted. Physicians with more number of years of experience, such as residents, consultants, and specialists, have higher knowledge about the prevention of SSI.

Incidence of neurological deficit following road traffic accident with cervical spine immobilization compared to no cervical spine immobilization in patients visiting Taif hospitals

Background: Spinal collars were brought in 1967 into the administration of spinal injury care as it was believed that this procedure of immobilization would forestall any further neurological or spinal harm in high-risk patients. This study was done to assess the incidence of neurological deficit following road traffic accidents with cervical spine immobilization compared to no cervical spine immobilization in patients visiting Taif hospitals. Methods: A cross-sectional investigation of the patients who have encountered street car crashes was done from the time of July 2018 2022. The information was collected through a survey that assess the presence or non-attendance of neurological shortfalls in patients who had the cervical collar (CC) immobilization applied and the people who had not. Results: A total of 322 patients took part in our poll and cross-sectional review. The highest number of people were who did not utilize the CC when they own up to the emergency department (67.1%); accordingly, that significance (p = 0.009) demonstrated the powerlessness of the CC to diminish the deficiencies. Also, its presence did not diminish the complete number of patients in the Intensive care unit (ICU), however, the opposite occurred (p = 0.005). Conclusion: The utilization of a CC did not resist diminishing either the neurological deficiencies or admission to the ICU where most patients did not admit to the ICU unit which might be on the grounds that the greater part of patients did not confront cervical spine injury.

Role of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in Medication Safety, Physicians Perception, and Practice

Introduction: Patients admitted to the hospital will receive various drugs, each carrying the risk of error. Medication errors concern our healthcare system, especially considering the relatively high number of patients admitted to hospitals. Assuming that each patient receives at least two medications twice a day, the likelihood of a medication error is considerable. Therefore, therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) focuses on measuring blood medication levels and plays a crucial role in medication safety.&#x0D; Aims: This study aimed to determine the effect of TDM in ensuring the safety of medications in many Taif hospitals. Also, to enhance the safety and quality of drug use and reflect physician perception and practice regarding TDM.&#x0D; Methodology: A prospective cross-sectional study consisting of questionnaires was conducted to physicians at many of Taif's governmental hospitals between March and May 2021. Questionnaires evaluated three parts: physician demographics, physician perception about TDM, and physician practices regarding TDM. The collected data were processed using the Excel program.&#x0D; Results: More than 80% of the interviewed physicians agreed that TDM is a tool that can guide the clinician to provide effective and safe drug therapy in the individual patient. Approximately 77% agreed that TDM is a team of decision-making groups. Around 25% of physicians performed TDM weekly, 22% monthly, and 10% daily. The medications that participating physicians ordered TDM were digoxin (30%), carbamazepine (21%), and gentamycin (17%). The participants had a limited understanding of the advantages of TDM in terms of drug safety and welfare.&#x0D; Conclusion: The number of actual drug errors occurs in the healthcare systems. Therefore, must establishment of TDM in hospitals. Medical administration and physicians must cooperate with the clinical pharmacist. Also, establish workshops for health practitioners to educate them about the role of TDM and pharmacokinetic laboratories in controlling the therapeutic process.

Evaluation of Maxillofacial Trauma in Saudi Arabia using Computed Tomography

Background: Trauma to the maxillofacial region can lead to severe complications such as sinuses obstruction, intracranial injuries, and vision loss. Computed tomography has a critical rule for early evaluation of the maxillofacial region. This study aimed to evaluate the findings that occur due to maxillofacial injuries using computed tomography (CT). Material and Method: A total of 200 facial CT patients were retrospectively examined, extending from January 2019 to January 2020. 140 slice CT systems (Siemens Medical system) were applied to investigate patients with maxillofacial trauma at three hospitals in Taif, Saudi Arabia. Results: Out of the 200 maxillofacial traumas, Maxilla fractures were found in 71 patients (35%), and Nasal fractures were found in 56 patients (28%). Various maxillofacial fractures were seen, including Frontal, Zygomatic, Ethmoidal, Mandible, Temporal, and Parietal and Orbital bone. The adults ranged from 20 to 39 years were more commonly affected; maxillofacial fractures were more prevalent in men. Conclusion: various maxillofacial fractures were identified during a facial CT scan, and approximately one-third were male. The maxilla bone was the most common site of the fracture, followed by the nasal bone. Therefore, CT is essential for the patient with maxillofacial trauma for early management to avoid any complications for the patient.

The prevalence and risk factors of spina bifida in infants and children in Taif city, Saudi Arabia

Background: Spina bifida is one of the neural tube defects substantially related to significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. A complex of environmental and genetic factors has been a risk factor for spina bifida. This study aims to assess the prevalence of spina bifida and related risk factors in Taif city, Saudi Arabia. Methods: A retrospective chart review was done at Taif Hospitals, Saudi Arabia. The study was conducted by reviewing medical files of all infants and children born with spina bifida between January 1, 2018 and December 31, 2020. All files fulfilling the inclusion criteria were reviewed for data extraction using pre-structured data extraction sheet. Results: A total of 15 infants and children with spina bifida among 43,890 live births in Taif city were identified with an incidence of 3.5 per 100,000 children. Among the 15 studied subjects, 9 were females, and the other 6 children were males. The exact of nine (60%) children with spina bifida had Myelomeningocele. Mothers ages at child delivery were 30 years or more was among 60% of the cases mothers. Two-thirds of cases mothers had no folic acid supplements during pregnancy. Conclusion: In conclusion, the current study revealed that spina bifida was around the global reported incidence, which was more common with more serious complications among females. Lack of folic acid supplementation at the periconceptional period was found to be the most reported risk factor.

Safety in Medical Laboratories: Perception and Practice of University Students and Laboratory Workers.

Several safety-related accidents occur in the laboratories because of insufficient regulations, inappropriate implementation of safety measures, or unawareness attitude and practices toward safety precautions. Thus, establishment of efficient regulations and safe habits toward workplace safety is crucial to prevent or minimize such accidents. Here we investigate the levels of laboratory safety awareness among undergraduate medical science students and laboratory workers at major hospitals in Taif, Saudi Arabia. An anonymous cross-sectional survey was conducted on a random sample of 185 students and workers. The survey was categorized into five sections: (1) variable demographic items, (2) orientation around the warning signage of medical laboratory picograms, (3) assess participants' attitudes toward laboratory safety, (4) assess participants' safety awareness and practices in medical laboratories, and (5) assess participants' knowledge in dealing with emergency equipment and related procedures. Data analyses indicate that workers are generally more aware of the key aspects of laboratory safety. Although students demonstrated moderate to good knowledge of major laboratory signage, there are some areas of deficiency, particularly regarding the use of fire extinguishers. Of interest is that female students are more familiar with laboratory signage than male students, although general laboratory safety awareness among students is poor. Students also showed poor awareness of certain critical aspects of safety practices and emergency procedures. The study data reveal inadequate awareness and knowledge of certain laboratory safety aspects among undergraduate students. Therefore, academic institutions should introduce effective safety regulations, education, and training to improve student safety.

Perceptions and Attitudes Towards Clinical Pharmacy Services and Their Impact on The Management of Cancer in Taif, Saudi Arabia.

Aim:To assess the perception and attitude of HCPs and health-related science colleges’ students regarding the clinical pharmacists’ roles and responsibilities in providing better pharmaceutical care to patients in Taif, Saudi Arabia and to detect its impact on management of cancer. Methods:This study was conducted in four randomly selected hospitals in Taif and three health-related science colleges in Taif University. A questionnaire was distributed to HCPs and another questionnaire to students of health-related science colleges. Results:Three quarters of students perceived that the clinical pharmacist is an important part of the healthcare team. Two-thirds of HCPs expressed confidence in the ability of clinical pharmacists to minimize medication errors. Although two-thirds of HCPs reported that they did not have clinical pharmacists in their institutions, there was substantial willingness among HCPs to cooperate with the clinical pharmacists. Most HCPs expressed the view that the clinical pharmacist is an important integral part of the healthcare team and has a positive impact on cancer management. Conclusion:HCPs and students of health-related science colleges valued the role of clinical pharmacists in healthcare delivery and management of cancer. However, new developments in clinical pharmacy services in Taif hospitals are recommended to improve perception and attitudes towards the clinical pharmacy services. Also, well-organized programs should be conducted to students of health-related science colleges to improve their perceptions and attitudes towards the clinical pharmacy services which may have a positive impact on cancer management.

Adherence to MRI Protocol Consensus Guidelines in Multiple Sclerosis Patients at Taif Hospitals

Background: multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS). Its diagnosis is characterized by foci of demyelination, disseminated over time and anatomical space, both clinically and radiologically. Consensus guidelines for the diagnosis of MS have been established to identify the proper sequences and imaging technique. Objective: this study aims to investigate the adherence of Taif hospitals to these consensus guidelines. Method: data were collected from the radiology departments of 3 main hospitals in Taif (King Abdul-Aziz Specialist Hospital, King Faisal Medical Complex, and Al-Hada Hospital for Armed Forces). The standard magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocol for MS in each hospital was reviewed using the picture archiving and communication system (PACS). The comparisons were based on the strength of the magnetic field, slice thickness, slice orientation, coverage, and the MR core sequences used. Results: each Taif hospital has its own protocol, which differ from consensus guidelines. The main difference is the hospitals’ lack of 3D sequences. Another difference is the lack of inversion recovery prepared T1 sequences. Finally, for follow-up patients, no contrast administration exists in Taif hospitals. Conclusion: this study shows some major differences in the MS protocols among Taif hospitals. This is probably due to poor awareness of the guidelines in the radiology community. Neuroradiologists at Taif hospitals should ensure the recommended protocol is followed.