Tertiary Care Hospital In Uttarakhand Research Articles

Pregnancy-induced Hypertension: What Are the Associated Factors in Rural Areas? A Study from Rural Dehradun, Uttarakhand

Abstract Background: Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) is a major significant cause of adverse pregnancy outcomes – mortality and morbidities in both mother and foetus. Aims: The present study aims to determine the prevalence of PIH and its associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care in rural field areas of a tertiary care hospital in Uttarakhand. Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on pregnant women-seeking antenatal services from January 2020 to October 2020 at three sub-centres (Raiwala, Pratit Nagar and Haripur Kala) of the Primary Health Centre (Raiwala) after giving informed consent. A sample size of 113 was calculated and included in our study. A pre-tested structured schedule was used to interview the study participants after a pilot test. Blood pressure was determined using an average of three measurements, and some clinical and laboratory findings were reviewed from medical records; these were mainly the mother-child protection card. Data were presented as frequency, percentage frequencies and the results are presented with the table. Fisher’s exact statistics were calculated for the association with pregnancy-induced hypertension, and logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors. P <0.05% was considered statistically significant. Results: The prevalence of PIH among total study participants in Dehradun District, Uttarakhand, was 6.2% (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.8%–10.6%). The majority of respondents were noted in ≤ 30 years of age group (91.15%), followed by > 30 years of age group (8.84%). In univariate regression, factors such as age, pre-term birth, abortion, pedal oedema, blurred vision, proteinuria, present history of gestational diabetes mellitus, present history of diabetes, present history of other morbidities, past history of diabetes, past history of other morbidities, i.e. surgeries, otitis media, obesity and thyroid, family history of hypertension and family history of diabetes were associated with pregnancy-induced hypertension. In multivariate logistic regression, maternal age (adjusted odds ratio AOR = 18.29, 95 CI% =2.3–141.4, P = 0.005*), pre-term birth (AOR = 61.7, 95% CI = 3.5–1071.3, P = 0.005*), (proteinuria AOR = 8, CI = 0.80–79.6, P = 0.006*), gestational diabetes (AOR = 19.9, CI = 2.9–133.06, P = 0.002*), history of other morbidities (AOR = 13.4, 95% CI; 1.7–106.5, P = 0.014*) and family history of diabetes (AOR; 8.7, 95% CI = 1.7–43.3, P = 0.008*) were found as the predictor factors for developing PIH. Conclusions: Early detection and treatment of pregnancy-induced hypertension and risk factors in pregnant women by healthcare professionals and policy-makers at the community level should be strengthened.

Screening of the Squint among Residents Visiting a Tertiary Care Hospital in Uttarakhand

Screening of the Squint among Residents Visiting a Tertiary Care Hospital in Uttarakhand

Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccination Status at a Tertiary Care Hospital of Uttarakhand: A Retrospective Record-Based Study

Abstract Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination has proved its importance and effectiveness in the fight against COVID-19. India began the world’s largest vaccination campaign against COVID-19 on 16th January 2021 with two vaccines, namely, Covishield and Covaxin. Aims: The present study was conducted to understand the trend of COVID-19 vaccination during the 1st year of the vaccination drive at a COVID Vaccination Centre in a tertiary care hospital of Uttarakhand. Patients and Methods: It was a retrospective record-based study conducted at a COVID-19 Vaccination Centre in a tertiary care hospital of Uttarakhand. Vaccination-related data of 1-year period (16th January 2021–16th January 2022) had been collected from the CoWIN app and COVID-19 vaccination register and analysed. Results: The total dose administered was 63,015 over a time period of 1 year during 299 vaccination sessions that were conducted. Analysis of total doses administered in relation to vaccination sessions held during different months of 1-year study period shows that on average, 199 individuals per session were vaccinated. There was an overall declining trend in the COVID-19 vaccine wastage rate for 1-year period of COVID-19 vaccination. Conclusion: This study will help us to understand how this experience of the past 1 year can be utilised for further planning and policy making.

Comprehensive Cardiovascular Assessment in Critical Patients: The Predictive Role of a Smartphone-based 12-Lead ECG Device

Background: With the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, there is a growing need for innovative and easily accessible cardiac monitoring tools. This study evaluates the predictive capability of Spandan, a smartphone-based 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) device, for assessing cardiovascular abnormalities in critically ill ICU patients at a tertiary care hospital in Uttarakhand. Methods: A cohort of 203 critically ill patients was actively enrolled in the study. Utilizing the Spandan smartphone-based ECG device, comprehensive 12-lead ECG recordings were obtained from each participant. These recordings underwent comparative analysis against the Gold Standard ECG, with diagnoses provided by cardiologists. The study aimed to assess the operational feasibility and accuracy of Spandan in identifying cardiovascular abnormalities within this high-risk population. Result: Initial findings reveal a significant alignment between the ECG recordings obtained via Spandan and the gold standard ECG, corroborating the diagnoses provided by cardiologists. The smartphone-based ECG device demonstrates promising outcomes in detecting various cardiovascular abnormalities in critical patients, including arrhythmias, ischemic changes, and conduction abnormalities. Notably, Spandan exhibits a specificity of 70%, surpassing the Gold Standard's 42%. This suggests Spandan's advantageous capability in accurately identifying true negative cases, thereby offering a higher specificity. Conclusion: The Spandan 12-lead ECG device shows promise as a valuable tool for comprehensive cardiovascular assessment in critically ill patients. Its operational feasibility and precision in identifying cardiovascular abnormalities highlight its potential to facilitate prompt diagnosis and management in this vulnerable demographic. Further extensive research and larger-scale trials are warranted to validate these initial findings and confirm the broad applicability of smartphone-based ECG devices in critical care settings.

Musculoskeletal Comorbidities among known Diabetes Patients, their Quality of Life, and Healthcare Costs: A Comparative Study From a Tertiary Care Hospital in Uttarakhand.

Diabetes is a chronic disorder with long-term sequelae and multisystem manifestation. Burden of diabetes in on the rise. Presence of other morbidities can not only have a detrimental effect on the disease treatment and recovery course, but also on the financial burden and quality of life. Present study aims to investigate how musculoskeletal conditions affect individuals with diabetes compared to those without the condition. A comparative study was conducted among patients attending the outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital in North India to assess the burden of musculoskeletal disorders in people with and without diabetes. A total of 195 diabetes patients and an equal number of individuals without diabetes were sequentially enrolled from the outpatient department (OPD). Burden of musculoskeletal comorbidities was significantly higher (46.2%) among people with diabetes than the comparison group (25.1%). The overall odds ratio (OR) for comorbidities of musculoskeletal system was 2.5 times higher in diabetes cases as compared to individuals without diabetes. The OR for rheumatoid arthritis, chronic backache, and osteoarthritis was found to be 3.6, 2.9, and 1.7 respectively. Poor quality of life and higher direct cost of treatment were found among diabetes cases with musculoskeletal comorbidities as against those without these comorbidities. Presence of musculoskeletal comorbidity is high among diabetes patients, and it has an impact on the quality of life and treatment cost. Screening for musculoskeletal comorbidities should be included as part of the diabetes complication assessment to allow for early detection and treatment.

Epidemiology of Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury in the Himalayan Range and Sub-Himalayan region: A Retrospective Hospital Data-Based Study.

To compile epidemiological characteristics of traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) in the Northern Indian Himalayan regions and Sub-Himalayan planes. The present study is a retrospective, cross-sectional descriptive analysis based on hospital data conducted at the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Spine Unit of Trauma Centre in a tertiary care hospital in Uttarakhand, India. People hospitalized at the tertiary care center between August 2018 and November 2021 are included in the study sample. A prestructured proforma was employed for the evaluation, including demographic and epidemiological characteristics. TSCI was found in 167 out of 3,120 trauma patients. The mean age of people with TSCI was 33.5±13.3, with a male-to-female ratio of 2.4:1. Eighty-three participants (49.7%) were from the plains, while the hilly region accounts for 50.3%. People from the plains had a 2.9:1 rural-to-urban ratio, whereas the hilly region had a 6:1 ratio. The overall most prevalent cause was Falls (59.3%), followed by road traffic accidents (RTAs) (35.9%). RTAs (57.2%) were the most common cause of TSCI in the plains' urban regions, while Falls (58.1%) were more common in rural plains. In both urban (66.6%) and rural (65.3%) parts of the hilly region, falls were the most common cause. TSCI is more common in young males, especially in rural hilly areas. Falls rather than RTAs are the major cause.

Prevalence of ventilator-associated events and antibiogram of bacterial isolates of ventilator-associated pneumonia in a tertiary care hospital of Uttarakhand.

Despite progress in diagnosing and managing ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), ongoing monitoring of ventilator-associated events (VAE) is crucial due to VAP's persistent prominence as the primary cause of Hospital-Acquired Infection (HAI) among Intensive Care unit patients. This study was done to illuminate the prevalence of VAE and antibiogram of bacterial isolates of VAP in a tertiary care hospital of Uttarakhand. This cross-sectional study focused on ICU patients. Adult patients ventilated for > 2 days were monitored daily, with VAE data analyzed using Center of Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) criteria. Specimens were sent to the Microbiology Department and cultured on Blood agar and MacConkey agar. Identification and antimicrobial profiles of isolates were determined using Vitek-2 Compact. 1220 ventilated individuals were assessed in total. VAE was diagnosed in 6.4% (78/1220) of the patients, the same later developed ventilator associated condition (VAC), 74 developed the infection-related VAC (IVAC), and 60 developed the possible/probable VAP (PVAP) among the 78 VAE cases. Klebsiella pneumoniae (35%), Acinetobacter baumannii (33%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (16%) were the most common isolated organisms. Colistin (57%) was the most effective against Klebsiella pneumoniae, followed by amikacin (28.5%) and trimethoprim+sulfamethoxazole (24%). Pseudomonas aeruginosa was most susceptible to imipenem (70%), meropenem, cefoperazone+sulbactam, and colistin (60%). Acinetobacter baumannii was most susceptible to colistin (85%), tigecycline (65%), and trimethoprim+sulfamethoxazole (25%). The most common cause of HAI is VAP. The purpose of this study is to determine the importance of starting suitable antibiotics early for prognosis and the difficulty of diagnosing VAP.

The Second COVID-19 Wave Is a Tsunami With Aftershocks: Mucormycosis Ire as Seen in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Uttarakhand, India.

During the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) or the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in recent times, an upsurge of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) such as mucormycosis was witnessed by many countries like India. This COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) has presented as a menace to the already creaking health infrastructure. Clinical manifestations, risk factors, and end clinical outcomes varied for every other region/country. The aim of this study is to delineate and analyze plausible clinical and epidemiological factors and associated predictors of CAM in suspected patients presenting to a tertiary care hospital in Uttarakhand, India, during the second wave of COVID-19 in India. A total of 200 cases of suspected post‑COVID-19 mucormycosis were enrolled. Data were collected taking into account parameters such as hospitalization and ICU admissions during the episode of COVID-19 infection, steroid/antibiotics/oxygen requirement, and comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, or any chronic illness and outcome. Participants diagnosed with CAM using KOH examination and fungal culture were analyzed in the study (n=46). The median age of patients included was 48, 73.9% were males, and 26% were females. The major predisposing factor was found to be diabetes mellitus type 2. Our work suggests that the mean duration between COVID-19 episodes and CAM was 11.86 days with a significant statistical association. Oxygen requirement and imprudent use of steroids/antibiotics were also allied with mucormycosis. The burden of such IFIs is expected to be unveiled in tropical countries during pandemics such as COVID-19, which lead to immunosuppression in masses post-treatment. Comorbidities such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and hypertension add to the risk of acquiring other infectious disease. Such times require competent healthcare professionals such as diagnosticians, physicians, and surgeons who are skilled to manage such IFIs timely.

Clinico-Epidemiological Profile of Patients Presenting With Acute Chest Discomfort in Emergency Medicine Department of a Tertiary Care Hospital in Uttarakhand, India: A Prospective Observational Study.

Background Acute chest discomfort is a common presenting complaint in the emergency department. There is apaucity of studies related to clinico-epidemiological profile of patients with acute chest discomfort in the emergency department (ED). Hence, we intended to conduct the study to address the dearth of research in this field. Aims and objectives The primary objective of this study was to study the clinico-epidemiological profile of patients with acute chest discomfort presenting to the ED. The secondary objectives were to assess the prevalence of premature acute coronary syndrome (ACS), to study the ED disposition and final hospital discharge diagnosis, and to assess the predictors of 24-hour mortality in such patients. Methods A prospective observational study of patients presenting with acute chest discomfort was conducted in the emergency medicine department of a tertiary care hospital. We included adults above the age of 18 years from December 2021 to December 2022 and excluded trauma patients. A standardized form was used to document patient demographic patterns, comorbidities, chest discomfort description, physical findings, investigations, consultations, ED management, and disposition. Variables having p-value ≤ 0.05 were considered to be significant. Results A total of 200 patients were included. The most common cause of chest discomfort in the EDwas cardiac, accounting for 48.5% (n = 97) of patients. The most common cardiac cause of acute chest discomfort was ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) ~ 21% (n = 42). Cardiac diagnosis was associated with the maximum number of admissions (≈80%; n = 78). The prevalence of premature ACS was 13.9% (n = 10). A 24-hour mortality was significantly associated with male gender, ambulance transport, history of coronary artery disease, and hypoxia and hypotension at the initial presentation. Conclusions ACS followed by respiratory causes are the predominant etiologies of acute chest discomfort in the ED.Knowledge of the differential diagnosis of acute chest discomfort in the ED can aid in prompt diagnosis and delivery of lifesaving treatment to these patients.

Clinical spectrum and laboratory profile of scrub typhus in children: A study from tertiary care hospital in Uttarakhand, Northern India

Background: Scrub typhus is a mite-born disease scrub. It commonly manifests as an acute febrile illness with multi-system involvement. It is regarded as a life-threatening disease in children, with serious complications usually occurring in the 2nd week of illness. Aims and Objectives: The aims of this study were to explore the clinical and laboratory profile of children with scrub typhus. Materials and Methods: All children admitted with scrub typhus over 1-year duration were enrolled in the study. The clinical, laboratory profile, and outcome were observed and analyzed. Results: A total of 47 children were diagnosed with scrub typhus, 17 (36.1%) children had clinical and laboratory evidence of meningitis. The most frequent presenting features were fever (100%), headache (82.4%), vomiting (82.4%), seizures (41.2%), and altered sensorium (70.6%). The mean duration of fever was 6.57 days, eight children (7%) had persistent fever for >14 days duration. Other complications reported were hepatitis 2 (4.3%), hepatosplenomegaly in 18 (38.3%) acute respiratory distress syndrome 2 (4.3%), and shock 31 (66%). The mean cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein, glucose, and cell count was 65.75±9.27 mg/dL, 45.00±7.23 mg/dL, and 65.94±52.72 cells/mm3 of CSF, respectively, with lymphocyte count of more than 96% in all cases. Most patients had lymphocytic pleocytosis and the mean lymphocyte percentage was 96.2%±4.5%. Out of all 47 patients, 45 (84.61%) patients recovered with appropriate antibiotics in both groups, while two (15.38%) patients expired in the group without meningitis. Conclusion: A high degree of suspicion and knowledge of the geographical distribution of Rickettsial diseases is crucial for its early diagnosis and favorable outcome. Scrub typhus should be considered in the differential diagnosis of aseptic meningitis.

Microbial profile and antibiotic resistance pattern of water supply in a tertiary care hospital of Uttarakhand.

In healthcare settings, hospital water and water-related devices can act as a reservoir for waterborne infections. Potable water, sinks, faucet aerators, showers, tub immersion, toilets, dialysis water, water baths, eyewash stations, and dental-unit water stations have all been linked to nosocomial outbreaks. This study aimed to determine the microbial profile and pattern of antibiotic resistance in the water supply of a tertiary care hospital in Uttarakhand. This is a 1-year prospective study which was carried out by the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at Sri Mahant Indersh Hospital (SMIH), Dehradun. A total of 154 water samples were collected from the AC outlets, ventilators in the Intensive care unit (ICUs), Operation theatre (OTs), and High dependency unit (HDUs), scrub stations, pantry, and blood bank, patient's bathroom, private ward, septic ward, labour room, transplant unit, laboratory, scope rinse water, the dialysis unit and tank throughout the hospital, including tap water (pre and post flush [25%]), tap swabs (24%), drinking water (9%), AC outlets (13%), and other areas (3%). 30 of the 154 (19.5%) water samples tested were culture-positive. The most contaminated water samples were tap swabs (27%, n = 8/30). A total of nine organisms were isolated, of which the most predominant was Pseudomonas aeruginosa (40%; 12/30), followed by Legionella pneumophila (13%; 4/30), Acinetobacter baumanii (10%; 3/30), Klebsiella pneumoniae (10%; 3/30), Escherichia coli (7%; 2/30), Enterococcus faecalis (7%; 2/30), Aspergillus flavus (7%; 2/30), Stenotrophomonas (3%; 1/30), and Fusarium spp. (3%; 1/30). Gram-negative bacilli and non-lactose fermenting (GNB and NLF) showed a high rate of contamination, 53.3% (n = 16/30). P. aeruginosa showed resistance to gentamicin and amikacin (42%), imipenem (50%), levofloxacin (58%), and colistin (25%), while Acinetobacter baumanii showed resistance to gentamicin and amikacin (67%), minocycline (63%), and levofloxacin, imipenem and colistin (33%). The study's findings show that a variety of microorganisms are contaminating hospital water supplies and can be a source of hospital-acquired infections. A suitable and robust surveillance program for hospital water supplies, as well as strict adherence to infection control practices, is strongly advised.

Comparative Study Between the First and Second Wave of COVID-19 Deaths in India: A Single Center Study.

Introduction The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is continuously evolving, and many mutant variants of the virus are circulating in the world. Recurrent waves of COVID-19 have caused enormous mortality all across the globe. Considering the novelty of the virus, it becomes crucial for healthcare experts and policymakers to understand the demographic and clinical attributes of inpatient deaths in the first and second waves of COVID-19. Methods This hospital record-based comparative study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Uttarakhand, India. The study included all COVID-19 RT PCR-positive patients admitted to the hospital during the first wave, from 1stApril2020to 31stJanuary2021, and the second wavefrom 1stMarch2021to 30thJune2021. Comparisons were made with respect to demographic, clinical, laboratory parameters, and course of hospital stay. Results The study exhibited 11.34% more casualties in the second wave, with the number of deaths being 424 and 475 for the first and second waves, respectively. A male preponderance of mortality was evident in both waves with significant differences(p=0.004). There was no significant difference in age between the two waves(p=0.809). The significantly different comorbidities were hypertension (p=0.003) and coronary artery disease (p=0.014). The clinical manifestations demonstrating a significant difference were cough (p=0.000), sore throat (p=0.002), altered mental status (p=0.002), headache (p=0.025), loss of taste and smell (p=0.001), and tachypnea (p=0.000). The lab parameters with a significant difference across both waves were lymphopenia (p=0.000), elevated aspartate aminotransferase (p=0.004), leukocytosis (p=0.008), and thrombocytopenia (p=0.004). During the hospital course of the second wave, in terms of intensive care unit stay, the need for non-invasive ventilation and inotrope support was higher. The complications manifesting in the form of acute respiratory distress syndrome and sepsis were observed more in the second wave. A significant difference was discerned in the median duration of hospital stay in both waves (p=0.000). Conclusion Despite being of shorter duration, the second wave of COVID-19 culminated in more deaths. The study demonstrated that most of the baseline demographic and clinical characteristics attributed to mortality were more common during the second wave of COVID-19, including lab parameters, complications, and duration of hospital stays. The unpredictable nature of COVID-19 waves calls for instituting a well-planned surveillance mechanism in place to identify the surge in cases at the earliest possible time and prompt response, along with developing infrastructure and capacity to manage complications.

Dengue-chikungunya infection in the tertiary care hospital of northern India: Cross-sectional latent class cluster analysis in viral infection

Cases of dengue and chikungunya fever are escalating all over India. Both viruses share a common vector, the “Aedes” mosquito. Due to similar clinical symptoms, both the dengue (DENV) and chikungunya (CHIKV) virus can circulate as co-infection. There is very limited data available on dengue-chikungunya co-infection in Uttarakhand, India. The purpose of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of dengue and chikungunya virus infections, as well as their co-infection, in patients presenting with clinical symptoms. Serum samples of clinically suspected patients from the tertiary care hospital of Uttarakhand were collected, and Latent Class Cluster Analysis was performed for clinical profiling. ELISA was performed for DENV and CHIKV. 279 cases were enrolled, out of which 222 (79.5%) came positive for dengue NS1 Ag, 143 (51.2%) for dengue IgM, 98 (35.1%) for IgG followed by 16 (5.7%) of CHIKV IgM, and 4 (1.4%) were NS1 Ag with CHIKV IgM. Among the clinical features, fever (n = 270, 96.8%) was the most common symptom in all suspected dengue and chikungunya cases. Other symptoms like chills (n = 254, 91.0%), arthralgia (n = 241, 86.4%), and headache (n = 240, 86.0%) were present in a significant number. Results showed fewer odds of getting both DENV and CHIKV infection simultaneously, but the risk is still not negligible. This study explores the clinical presentation of the suspected dengue-chikungunya case. The increasing incidence of dengue and chikungunya and their co-infection necessitate the authorities' active surveillance of endemic regions and effective patient care management.

Dengue Burden and Circulation of Dengue-2 Serotype Among Children Along With Clinical Profiling in Uttarakhand, India: A Cross-Sectional Study From 2018 to 2020.

The multiple serotypes of the dengue virus (DENV) are always a major public concern for dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome (DSS). This study aimed to analyse the demographic characteristics and circulating serotypes of dengue among the paediatric age group. One hundred forty-one clinically suspected children were enrolled in the study from 2018 to 2020 in a tertiary care hospital in Uttarakhand, India. Central tendency, frequency, and One-Way ANOVA were measured for continuous and categorical data. The Shapiro-Wilks test was used to calculate the normality assumption. Dengue NS1 Ag, IgM, and IgG antibodies ELISA were performed, and NS1-positive samples were further tested for molecular studies. From one hundred forty-one suspected cases, 100 (70.92%) came positive for dengue NS1 antigen, 18 (12.76%), and three (2.12%) came positive for IgM and IgG antibodies respectively. Rest 20 (14.18%) samples came negative for dengue. Fever with chills (97.5%), headache (89%), and arthralgia (82%) were the most common clinical features. Molecular studies showed the dengue serotype-2 (DEN-2) was found in most cases, followed by the dengue-3 serotype (DEN-3). This is the preliminary study as the authors' best knowledge which demonstrate the burden of dengue in children with prevalent serotypes for consecutive three yearsin Uttarakhand. This study identifies that the serotype-2 (DEN-2) of the dengue virus was the primary cause of infection in children at the tertiary care hospital in northern India. These results will help further to understand the nature of the disease so that improved patient care management will imply. Further molecular studies on large sample sizes during the endemic would be helpful to gain knowledge of the actual load of the disease and the genetic characteristics of the virus.

Distribution of Genotypes of Hepatitis C Virus Studied in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Uttarakhand, India: A Retrospective Study

Introduction: With more than one million cases of Hepatitis C viral infection reported annually, it has become a major global problem. Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is classified into 7 genotypes and 67 subtypes. Various genotypes show a wide geographical distribution worldwide. Genotypes 1 and 3 are the most common genotypes reported from India. There is minimal data available on the distribution and frequency of HCV genotypes in Uttarakhand. Aim: This three years retrospective study was undertaken to find out the distribution pattern of HCV genotypes among HCV- infected patients attending a tertiary care hospital in this Sub- Himalayan state of Uttarakhand. Materials and Methods: A total of 306 samples were tested for HCV genotyping in 3 years duration i.e., January 2018 to December 2020 at the Molecular Laboratory of Shri Guru Ram Rai Institute of Medical and Health sciences and associated Shri Mahant Indiresh Hospital, Dehradun. Genotyping was performed using HCV genotype specific Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) assay on Rotor-Gene Q using TRUPCR HCV Genotyping Kit (3B BlackBio Biotech India Ltd.,) as per manufacturer’s instructions. This test kit detects HCV genotypes 1, 1a, 2 (2a/ 2b), 3, 4, 5a, and 6. Results: Genotype 3 (72.7%) was the commonest genotype detected, followed by genotype 1 (13%), genotype 1a (6.25%) and genotype 4 (2.8%). Genotype 3 was the most dominant genotype in all the 3 years of the study. Two cases of genotype 5a (1.13%) and three cases of genotype 6 (1.7%) were also detected in our study. We also detected a case of mixed infection by genotype 1 and genotype 6. Conclusion: The most common genotype detected was three during the study period. Detection of genotype 5a and 6 ascertained the impact of interstate migration of people.

Are Health Caregivers safe from workplace violence? A cross sectional study on workplace safety from Tertiary Care Hospital of Uttarakhand

Background: The prevalence of workplace violence in the healthcare sector is a problem that is frequently ignored and underreported. The performance of healthcare workers who have been the target of violence may suffer, which may have a negative effect on patient satisfaction and health. Aims & Objectives: The purpose of the current study was to determine the prevalence of workplace violence (WPV), risk factors for violence against healthcare workers, and their experiences regarding the same. Methodology: It was a cross-sectional study conducted on 157 hospital staff at Tertiary Care Medical College of Uttarakhand. Data was gathered using a semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire that was modified from the ILO, ICN, WHO, and PSI. Data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 20). Results: Factors like age, gender, job profile, lesser work experience, night shifts, and fewer staff on duty were found to have a positive association with workplace violence. It was observed that the majority of incidents took place in the ward, and the patient’s relatives were the attacker in most of the cases. It was also seen that the majority of Hospital staff did not get bothered by the incident except by staying super alert while dealing with other patients or their relatives. Conclusion: The study concludes that while caring for patients, Hospital staff are at risk of being victims of aggressive and violent situations. To reduce this problem, strategies like training staff in order to handle such incidents in the future should be brought into practice. Laws should be made stricter & assaulting staff on duty should be made a cognizable offense with serious consequences & heavy penalties. Also, the young budding MBBS students should be trained by incorporating these strategies, laws & policies in the CBME curriculum

DRUGS UTILIZATION STUDY IN NEONATAL SEPSIS IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Objectives: The present study was taken up to evaluate the drug utilization pattern and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) seen in patients of neonatal sepsis admitted to sick newborn care unit of a tertiary care hospital in Uttarakhand. Methods: This was a prospective observational study. A suitable case record form was designed to collect all the necessary and relevant information. Data of 175 neonatal sepsis matching inclusion criteria were recorded. Pattern of prescription of drug for various diseases in sick newborns was analyzed. Information on ADR were analyzed. ADR was analyzed using Naranjo scale and the WHO causality assessment scale. Results: Blood culture was positive in 137 (78.29%) neonates. Staphylococcus aureus (45.26%) was the most common microorganism followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (26.28%) and Escherichia coli (14.60%). Out of 137 blood culture-positive neonates, 30.66% were suffering from meningitis. Out of 38 blood culture-negative neonates, 63.16% were suffering from meningitis. Average number of drugs per encounter was 1.71. Percentage of drugs prescribed by generic name was 91%. Parenteral route was the most common route of drug administration. Ampicillin was the most common antimicrobial prescribed. Next common classes of drug used were vasopressor. Out of 10 (5.71%) ADRs identified, 70% were possible and 30% were doubtful as per Naranjo’s causality assessment scale. Case fatality rate was 27.42% during the course of study. Conclusion: Parenteral antibiotics (ampicillin plus gentamycin) and vasopressors remain the most commonly prescribed drugs in neonatal sepsis in sick newborn unit. The study concluded that doses and duration, for which drugs were used, were in accordance to AIIMS protocol for neonatal sepsis.

Assessment of Dyslipidemia, Lipid Ratios, and Atherogenic Indices as Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Prediabetic and Diabetic Subjects.

Background Uttarakhand is a small state in northern India that comprises mixed population with people dwelling in both hilly and plain areas. Globally, diabetes mellitus (DM) has already been considered to be a pandemic. Furthermore, cardiovascular diseases (CVD) significantly increase mortality and morbidity in patients suffering from DM. Additionally, dyslipidemia has been identified as an important marker in the development of atherosclerosis and ultimately CVD in patients of prediabetes and diabetes. Thus, the identification of subjects with dyslipidemia in prediabetes might be fruitful in lowering their progression to diabetes and ultimately in decreasing incidences of CVD. Hence, this study was undertaken to assess dyslipidemia via the calculation of atherogenic indices (AI) and lipid ratios in prediabetic and diabetic groups attending tertiary care hospital in Uttarakhand. Materials and Methods This study reviewed retrospective biochemical data of 500 study subjects from e-hospital software of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh. All study subjects were divided into three groups: 122 controls, 137 prediabetics, and 241 diabetics based on the American Diabetes Association criteria. Study subjects were evaluated for glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), lipid profile, and AI (total cholesterol [TC]/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDLc], low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDLc]/HDLc, TC-HDLc/HDLc, triglycerides [TG]/HDLc). Results Results showed that TC, TG, LDLc, and AI were significantly higher, and HDLc was significantly decreased in prediabetic and diabetic groups compared with controls. Furthermore, HbA1c showed significant positive correlation with lipid profile and AI except atherogenic coefficient (TC-HDL/HDL). Conclusion In conclusion, the current study showed the presence of dyslipidemia in both prediabetic and diabetic groups underlining their importance for screening at the prediabetic stage. Hence, we also recommend screening of the prediabetic group for dyslipidemia to arrest the development of early cardiovascular complications.

Seroprevalence of Antibodies Against SARS-CoV-2 Among Health Care Workers at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Uttarakhand: A Retrospective Study.

BackgroundThe number of confirmed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections is vastly underestimated. In this context, seroprevalence surveys are of utmost importance to assess the proportion of the population that has already developed antibodies against the virus and might potentially be protected against subsequent infection. Health care workers (HCWs) face a greater risk of developing SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, the present retrospective study was undertaken to estimate the prevalence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 among healthcare workers at a tertiary care institute in Uttarakhand, India.Material and methodsData were gathered from hospital records of 704 healthcare workers admitted to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) unit and attended the COVID OPD of the tertiary care institute between July 15 to Aug 14, 2020.ResultOut of the 704 recruited participants, 14 (1.99%) were seropositive for immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. The cumulative prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection (presence of antibodies or past or current positive reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)) was 4.40%.ConclusionThe present study shows a low prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies among health care workers. In addition, posting in COVID-19-positive areas was not associated with increased seropositivity. More studies are warranted to assess IgG/IgM antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 among those HCWs who are exposed to COVID-19 patients.

The Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Fear of Fall in the Elderly: A Hospital-Based, Cross-Sectional Study.

BackgroundFalls are one of the most common but serious health issues faced by the elderly population. Falls-related injuries not only add to the morbidity and economic burden they also have a significant negative impact on psychological health and the quality of life of the elderly. In this study, we assess the prevalence of fear of falling among the geriatric population and the risk factors associated with fear of falling.MethodologyThis prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted among geriatric patients aged more than 60 years attending the medical outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital in Uttarakhand, India. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of fear of falling among the geriatric population and compare various demographic and clinical parameters in elderly patients with and without fear of falling. Fear of fall was assessed using a questionnaire by asking the elderly if they had fear of falling, how often they had fear of falling, and under which circumstances did they have fear of falling. Information regarding demographics, history of daily activities, and chronic diseases was collected and assessed from all geriatric patients with and without fear of falls.ResultsAlmost half (334; 42%) of the geriatric population had a history of fear of falling. Demographic parameters such as age over 80 years, female gender, living alone, and rural background were significantly associated with fear of falling. Similarly, a history of chronic diseases such as stroke, hypertension, and history of visual and motility impairment was significantly related to fear of falls among geriatric patients. Around 70% (571) of geriatric patients aged over 60 years had associated health problems.ConclusionsThis study reinstates that fear of falls is a significant health issue in the elderly age group. It also highlights multiple risk factors related to fear of falling which if controlled can significantly improve the quality of life of the geriatric population.