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Kim MS, Park B, Sippel GJ, Mun AH, Yang W, McCarthy KH, Fernandez E, Linguraru MG, Sarcevic A, Marsic I, Burd RS. Comparative analysis of personal protective equipment nonadherence detection: computer vision versus human observers. J Am Med Inform Assoc 2025; 32:163-171. [PMID: 39401253 DOI: 10.1093/jamia/ocae262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Revised: 09/03/2024] [Accepted: 10/01/2024] [Indexed: 12/15/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Human monitoring of personal protective equipment (PPE) adherence among healthcare providers has several limitations, including the need for additional personnel during staff shortages and decreased vigilance during prolonged tasks. To address these challenges, we developed an automated computer vision system for monitoring PPE adherence in healthcare settings. We assessed the system performance against human observers detecting nonadherence in a video surveillance experiment. MATERIALS AND METHODS The automated system was trained to detect 15 classes of eyewear, masks, gloves, and gowns using an object detector and tracker. To assess how the system performs compared to human observers in detecting nonadherence, we designed a video surveillance experiment under 2 conditions: variations in video durations (20, 40, and 60 seconds) and the number of individuals in the videos (3 versus 6). Twelve nurses participated as human observers. Performance was assessed based on the number of detections of nonadherence. RESULTS Human observers detected fewer instances of nonadherence than the system (parameter estimate -0.3, 95% CI -0.4 to -0.2, P < .001). Human observers detected more nonadherence during longer video durations (parameter estimate 0.7, 95% CI 0.4-1.0, P < .001). The system achieved a sensitivity of 0.86, specificity of 1, and Matthew's correlation coefficient of 0.82 for detecting PPE nonadherence. DISCUSSION An automated system simultaneously tracks multiple objects and individuals. The system performance is also independent of observation duration, an improvement over human monitoring. CONCLUSION The automated system presents a potential solution for scalable monitoring of hospital-wide infection control practices and improving PPE usage in healthcare settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary S Kim
- Division of Trauma and Burn Surgery, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC 20010, United States
| | - Beomseok Park
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, United States
| | - Genevieve J Sippel
- Division of Trauma and Burn Surgery, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC 20010, United States
| | - Aaron H Mun
- Division of Trauma and Burn Surgery, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC 20010, United States
| | - Wanzhao Yang
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, United States
| | - Kathleen H McCarthy
- Division of Trauma and Burn Surgery, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC 20010, United States
| | - Emely Fernandez
- Division of Trauma and Burn Surgery, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC 20010, United States
| | - Marius George Linguraru
- Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC 20010, United States
- Departments of Radiology and Pediatrics, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20037, United States
| | - Aleksandra Sarcevic
- College of Computing and Informatics, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
| | - Ivan Marsic
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, United States
| | - Randall S Burd
- Division of Trauma and Burn Surgery, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC 20010, United States
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Shrestha S, Malla R, Shrestha S, Singh P, Sherchand JB. Household preparedness for emergencies during COVID-19 pandemic among the general population of Nepal. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0003475. [PMID: 39264913 PMCID: PMC11392347 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0003475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/14/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted the global economy affecting numerous people's livelihoods. Despite preventive behaviors and advancements of vaccination, the risk of infection still exists due to the emergence of new variants of concern and the changing behavior of the SARS CoV-2 virus. Therefore, preparedness measures are crucial for any emergency. In such situations, it is important to understand preparedness behavior at the household level, as it aids in reducing the risk of transmission and the severity of the disease before accessing any external support. Our study aimed to evaluate household preparedness level for emergencies during the COVID-19 pandemic and its relationship with socio-demographic characteristics among the general population of Nepal. Data was collected through a questionnaire survey. Descriptive statistics, a Chi-square test, and logistic regression model were used for analysis. The study demonstrated that 59.2% had a good preparedness level. Good preparedness was observed among the respondents living in urban areas, those who were married, had white-collar occupations, high-education with graduate and above and high-income levels with monthly income >NPR 20,000, and were young-aged. The study findings underscore the need to develop tailored programs on preparedness prioritizing vulnerable population. It further highlights the importance of proper and consistent information flow, resources distribution, capacitating human resources and better health surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salina Shrestha
- Center of Research for Environment, Energy and Water, Kathmandu Nepal
| | - Rabin Malla
- Center of Research for Environment, Energy and Water, Kathmandu Nepal
| | - Sadhana Shrestha
- Center of Research for Environment, Energy and Water, Kathmandu Nepal
- Interdisciplinary Center for River Basin Environment, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Pallavi Singh
- Nepal Red Cross Society, Head Office, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Jeevan B Sherchand
- Institute of Medicine, Research Directorate, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
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Team V, Bouguettaya A, Qiu Y, Turnour L, Banaszak‐Holl JC, Weller CD, Sussman G, Jones A, Teede H. Nurses' experiences of hospital-acquired pressure injury prevention in acute healthcare services in Victoria, Australia: A qualitative study using the Theoretical Domains Framework. Int Wound J 2024; 21:e14956. [PMID: 38949176 PMCID: PMC11215697 DOI: 10.1111/iwj.14956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
We investigated nurses' experiences of hospital-acquired pressure injury (PI) prevention in acute care services to better understand how PI prevention may be optimised. We used the Theoretical Domains Framework to systematically identify barriers and enablers to evidence-based preventive practices as required by the International Guideline. This study was one element of a complex capacity building project on PI surveillance and prevention within the acute health service partners of Monash Partners Academic Health Science Centre, an accredited academic health partnership located in Melbourne, Australia. We adopted a qualitative descriptive design. We interviewed 32 nurses that provided care in intensive care units, general wards and COVID wards of four acute care services. Nurses were recruited from four large acute care services (three public, one private) located in Melbourne. Most of them worked with patients who were at high risk of hospital-acquired PI on a daily basis. Interview transcripts were coded and analysed using thematic analysis guided by the Theoretical Domains Framework. The domains referred to most frequently by all participants included: Knowledge, Skills, Social/Professional Role and Identity, Beliefs about Capabilities, and Environmental Context and Resources. The key barriers discussed by nurses included gaps in nurses' knowledge and skills related to identification and staging of PI, heavy nursing workload and inadequate staffing levels, stigma and self-blame related to PI identification, and exacerbating impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Main facilitators discussed were training programmes, nursing audits and feedback, and teamwork. Participants suggested improvements including accessible and tailored training, visual reminders, and addressing heavy workloads and emotional barriers nurses face. Investing in tailored training initiatives to improve nurses' knowledge and organisational changes to address low level staffing and heavy workloads are urgently needed to support nurses in delivering optimal care and preventing hospital-acquired PI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Team
- School of Nursing and MidwiferyMonash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
- Monash Partners Academic Health Science CentreClaytonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Ayoub Bouguettaya
- School of Nursing and MidwiferyMonash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Yunjing Qiu
- School of Nursing and MidwiferyMonash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
- School of Nursing and MidwiferyUniversity of Technology SydneyUltimoNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Louise Turnour
- School of Nursing and MidwiferyMonash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Jane C. Banaszak‐Holl
- Department of Health Services Administrations, School of Health ProfessionsThe University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamAlabamaUSA
| | - Carolina D. Weller
- School of Nursing and MidwiferyMonash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Geoffrey Sussman
- Austin HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of General Practice, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health ScienceMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Angela Jones
- Monash Partners Academic Health Science CentreClaytonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Helena Teede
- Monash Partners Academic Health Science CentreClaytonVictoriaAustralia
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McGrath BA, Shelton CL, Gardner A, Coleman R, Lynch J, Alexander PG, Cooper G. Bubble-PAPR: a phase 1 clinical evaluation of the comfort and perception of a prototype powered air-purifying respirator for use by healthcare workers in an acute hospital setting. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e066524. [PMID: 37156585 PMCID: PMC10174029 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-066524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to design and produce a low-cost, ergonomic, hood-integrated powered air-purifying respirator (Bubble-PAPR) for pandemic healthcare use, offering optimal and equitable protection to all staff. We hypothesised that participants would rate Bubble-PAPR more highly than current filtering face piece (FFP3) face mask respiratory protective equipment (RPE) in the domains of comfort, perceived safety and communication. DESIGN Rapid design and evaluation cycles occurred based on the identified user needs. We conducted diary card and focus group exercises to identify relevant tasks requiring RPE. Lab-based safety standards established against British Standard BS-EN-12941 and EU2016/425 covering materials; inward particulate leakage; breathing resistance; clean air filtration and supply; carbon dioxide elimination; exhalation means and electrical safety. Questionnaire-based usability data from participating front-line healthcare staff before (usual RPE) and after using Bubble-PAPR. SETTING Overseen by a trial safety committee, evaluation progressed sequentially through laboratory, simulated, low-risk, then high-risk clinical environments of a single tertiary National Health Service hospital. PARTICIPANTS 15 staff completed diary cards and focus groups. 91 staff from a range of clinical and non-clinical roles completed the study, wearing Bubble-PAPR for a median of 45 min (IQR 30-80 (15-120)). Participants self-reported a range of heights (mean 1.7 m (SD 0.1, range 1.5-2.0)), weights (72.4 kg (16.0, 47-127)) and body mass indices (25.3 (4.7, 16.7-42.9)). OUTCOME MEASURES Preuse particulometer 'fit testing' and evaluation against standards by an independent biomedical engineer.Primary:Perceived comfort (Likert scale).Secondary: Perceived safety, communication. RESULTS Mean fit factor 16 961 (10 participants). Bubble-PAPR mean comfort score 5.64 (SD 1.55) vs usual FFP3 2.96 (1.44) (mean difference 2.68 (95% CI 2.23 to 3.14, p<0.001). Secondary outcomes, Bubble-PAPR mean (SD) versus FFP3 mean (SD), (mean difference (95% CI)) were: how safe do you feel? 6.2 (0.9) vs 5.4 (1.0), (0.73 (0.45 to 0.99)); speaking to other staff 7.5 (2.4) vs 5.1 (2.4), (2.38 (1.66 to 3.11)); heard by other staff 7.1 (2.3) vs 4.9 (2.3), (2.16 (1.45 to 2.88)); speaking to patients 7.8 (2.1) vs 4.8 (2.4), (2.99 (2.36 to 3.62)); heard by patients 7.4 (2.4) vs 4.7 (2.5), (2.7 (1.97 to 3.43)); all p<0.01. CONCLUSIONS Bubble-PAPR achieved its primary purpose of keeping staff safe from airborne particulate material while improving comfort and the user experience when compared with usual FFP3 masks. The design and development of Bubble-PAPR were conducted using a careful evaluation strategy addressing key regulatory and safety steps. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04681365.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan A McGrath
- Acute Intensive Care Unit, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Academic Critical Care, Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Clifford L Shelton
- Department of Anaesthesia, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- Lancaster Medical School, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Angela Gardner
- Acute Intensive Care Unit, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Ruth Coleman
- Acute Intensive Care Unit, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - James Lynch
- Acute Intensive Care Unit, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Peter G Alexander
- Acute Intensive Care Unit, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Academic Critical Care, Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Glen Cooper
- The University of Manchester School of Mechanical Aerospace and Civil Engineering, Manchester, UK
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Cherry N, Mhonde T, Adisesh A, Burstyn I, Durand-Moreau Q, Labrèche F, Ruzycki S. The evolution of workplace risk for Covid-19 in Canadian healthcare workers and its relation to vaccination: A nested case-referent study. Am J Ind Med 2023; 66:297-306. [PMID: 36734295 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the early months of the Covid-19 pandemic, studies demonstrated that healthcare workers (HCWs) were at increased risk of infection. Few modifiable risks were identified. It is largely unknown how these evolved over time. METHODS A prospective case-referent study was established and nested within a cohort study of Canadian HCWs. Cases of Covid-19, confirmed by polymerase chain reaction, were matched with up to four referents on job, province, gender, and date of first vaccination. Cases and referents completed a questionnaire reporting exposures and experiences in the 21 days before case date. Participants were recruited from October 2020 to March 2022. Workplace factors were examined by mixed-effects logistic regression allowing for competing exposures. A sensitivity analysis was limited to those for whom family/community transmission seemed unlikely. RESULTS 533 cases were matched with 1697 referents. Among unvaccinated HCWs, the risk of infection was increased if they worked hands-on with patients with Covid-19, on a ward designated for care of infected patients, or handled objects used by infected patients. Sensitivity analysis identified work in residential institutions and geriatric wards as high risk for unvaccinated HCWs. Later, with almost universal HCW vaccination, risk from working with infected patients was much reduced but cases were more likely than referents to report being unable to access an N95 mask or that decontaminated N95 masks were reused. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that, after a rocky start, the risks of Covid-19 infection from work in health care are now largely contained in Canada but with need for continued vigilance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Cherry
- Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Trish Mhonde
- Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Anil Adisesh
- Division of Occupational Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Igor Burstyn
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - France Labrèche
- Research Department, Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Shannon Ruzycki
- Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Nasa P, Modi P, Setubal G, Puspha A, Upadhyay S, Talal SH. Demographic and risk characteristics of healthcare workers infected with SARS-CoV-2 from two tertiary care hospitals in the United Arab Emirates. World J Virol 2023; 12:122-131. [PMID: 37033144 PMCID: PMC10075053 DOI: 10.5501/wjv.v12.i2.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the transmission dynamics of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection among healthcare workers (HCWs) and their social contacts is crucial to plan appropriate risk-reduction measures. AIM To analyze the socio-demographic risk factors and transmission of SARS-CoV-2 infection among HCWs in two tertiary care hospitals in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. METHODS The demographic and clinical characteristics were available for all HCWs in both facilities from the human resources department. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from January-April 2022 among HCWs who tested positive through Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction of the nasopharyngeal swab for SARS-CoV-2 between March 2020 and August 2021 in two tertiary-level hospitals. The survey included questions on demographics, work profile, characteristics of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and infection among their household or co-workers. The survey also checked the knowledge and perception of participants on the infection prevention measures related to SARS-CoV-2. RESULTS Out of a total of 346 HCWs infected with SARS-CoV-2, 286 (82.7%) HCWs consented to participate in this study. From the sample population, 150 (52.5%) of participants were female, and a majority (230, 80.4%) were frontline HCWs, including 121 nurses (121, 42.4%). Only 48 (16.8%) participants were fully vaccinated at the time of infection. Most infected HCWs (85%) were unaware of any unprotected exposure and were symptomatic at the time of testing (225, 78.7%). Nearly half of the participants (140, 49%) had co-infection among household, and nearly one-third (29.5%) had co-infection among three or more household. Another 108 (37.8%) participants reported cross-infection among co-workers. The frontline HCWs were significantly more infected (25.1% vs 8.6%, P < 0.001) compared to non-frontline HCWs. Another significant risk factor for a high infection rate was male sex (P < 0.001). Among the infected frontline HCWs, a significantly higher proportion were male and shared accommodation with family (P < 0.001). COVID-19 vaccination significantly reduced the infection rate (83.2% vs 16.8, P < 0.001) among HCWs. Most participants (99.3%) were aware about importance of appropriate use of personal protective equipment. However, only 70% agreed with the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccination in preventing an infection and severe disease. CONCLUSION The risk profiling of the HCWs infected with SARS-CoV-2 found that working at frontline and being male increase the rate of infection. COVID-19 vaccination can effectively reduce the rate of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among HCWs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashant Nasa
- Critical Care Medicine, NMC Specialty Hospital, Dubai 7832, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al Ain 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Payal Modi
- Department of Microbiology, NMC Royal Hospital, Dubai Investment Park, Dubai 7832, United Arab Emirates
| | - Gladys Setubal
- Prevention and Control of Infection, NMC Specialty Hospital, Dubai 7832, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Aswini Puspha
- Prevention and Control of Infection, NMC Royal Hospital, Dubai Investment Park, Dubai 7832, United Arab Emirates
| | - Surjya Upadhyay
- Department of Anaesthesiology, NMC Royal Hospital, Dubai Investment Park, Dubai 7832, United Arab Emirates
| | - Syed Habib Talal
- Critical Care Medicine, NMC Specialty Hospital, Dubai 7832, United Arab Emirates
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Abukhalil AD, Naseef HA, Zayed N, Ali R, Bazzar Z, Al-Shami N. SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Clinical Manifestations and Risk Factors among Healthcare Workers In Palestine. THE OPEN PUBLIC HEALTH JOURNAL 2022; 15. [DOI: 10.2174/18749445-v15-e221117-2022-80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Background:
Healthcare workers are the White army compacted the COVID-19 epidemic, and reports worldwide have shown an increase in SARS-CoV-2 among healthcare workers due to their direct interactions with infected patients. This study aimed to examine the clinical manifestations and risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 infection among healthcare workers in Palestine and offer recommendations to ensure health workers' safety and adopt workplace safety policies.
Methods:
This questionnaire-based cross-sectional observational study was conducted using an online questionnaire to collect information about SARS-CoV-2 transmission, signs, symptoms, and treatment reported by healthcare workers. Furthermore, we explored policies, protocols, and practices that make health workers vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Results:
A total of 389 healthcare workers were included, 216 (55.5%) were exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, 173 (44.5%) were infected with the virus, and the prevalence of hospitalization was 16%. The most commonly reported symptoms are fatigue, weakness, and muscle pain. Female healthcare workers experienced a significantly extended duration of symptoms than male workers. Direct contact (working less than 1.5 m) with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients and lack of COVID-19 and PPE training were risk factors for COVID-19 infection among HCWs.
Conclusion:
The healthcare system must ensure a safe work environment and adopt policies and procedures to ensure HCW safety, proper training, and resource availability to cope with crises.
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KURUOĞLU T, ATİLLA A, KAYHAN ŞB, TEMOÇİN F, TANYEL E. Determination of risk factors playing a role in the transmission of COVID-19 in healthcare professionals. JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.32322/jhsm.1180325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Healthcare workers and professionals have the highest risk of transmission of novel coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). The risks faced by healthcare professionals can vary according to their working conditions, knowledge, attitudes and behaviours. This study aimed to identify risk factors contributing to transmission among frontline healthcare providers in the pandemic period.
Material and Method: The healthcare workers working at the school of medicine hospital and referred to the COVID-19 clinics by the filiation team following risky exposure between March 15, 2020 and December 31, 2020 were included in the study. sociodemographic features, use of protective equipment, unprotected contact data, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) Real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test results recorded on the contact healthcare follow-up form of the participants were taken from the hospital records and analyzed retrospectively.
Results: Of the healthcare workers included in the study, 790 (58%) were female, and 571 (42%) were male, with a mean age of 33,6±8,3 years. SARS-CoV2 PCR positivity was detected in 94 (6%) participants. According to the multivariate model results, the male gender was found as a risk factor in terms of transmission which increased the risk 1.633-fold [%95 Cl; (1,048-2,544), p=0,030], working in a laboratory unit increased the risk 2.89-fold [%95 Cl; (1,322-6,316), p=0,008], and contacting out of the hospital increased the risk 7.154-fold [%95 Cl; (4,085-12,529), p
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuba KURUOĞLU
- ONDOKUZ MAYIS ÜNİVERSİTESİ, TIP FAKÜLTESİ, DAHİLİ TIP BİLİMLERİ BÖLÜMÜ, ENFEKSİYON HASTALIKLARI VE KLİNİK MİKROBİYOLOJİ ANABİLİM DALI
| | - Aynur ATİLLA
- ONDOKUZ MAYIS ÜNİVERSİTESİ, TIP FAKÜLTESİ, DAHİLİ TIP BİLİMLERİ BÖLÜMÜ, ENFEKSİYON HASTALIKLARI VE KLİNİK MİKROBİYOLOJİ ANABİLİM DALI
| | - Şeyma Betül KAYHAN
- ONDOKUZ MAYIS ÜNİVERSİTESİ, TIP FAKÜLTESİ, DAHİLİ TIP BİLİMLERİ BÖLÜMÜ, ENFEKSİYON HASTALIKLARI VE KLİNİK MİKROBİYOLOJİ ANABİLİM DALI
| | - Fatih TEMOÇİN
- ONDOKUZ MAYIS ÜNİVERSİTESİ, TIP FAKÜLTESİ, DAHİLİ TIP BİLİMLERİ BÖLÜMÜ, ENFEKSİYON HASTALIKLARI VE KLİNİK MİKROBİYOLOJİ ANABİLİM DALI
| | - Esra TANYEL
- ONDOKUZ MAYIS ÜNİVERSİTESİ, TIP FAKÜLTESİ, DAHİLİ TIP BİLİMLERİ BÖLÜMÜ, ENFEKSİYON HASTALIKLARI VE KLİNİK MİKROBİYOLOJİ ANABİLİM DALI
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Harrigan SP, Tsang VWL, Yassi A, Zungu M, Spiegel JM. Impacts of economic inequality on healthcare worker safety at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic: cross-sectional analysis of a global survey. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e064804. [PMID: 36198468 PMCID: PMC9534779 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-064804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the extent to which protection of healthcare workers (HCWs) as COVID-19 emerged was associated with economic inequality among and within countries. DESIGN Cross-sectional analysis of associations of perceptions of workplace risk acceptability and mitigation measure adequacy with indicators of respondents' respective country's economic income level (World Bank assessment) and degree of within-country inequality (Gini index). SETTING A global self-administered online survey. PARTICIPANTS 4977 HCWs and healthcare delivery stakeholders from 161 countries responded to health and safety risk questions and a subset of 4076 (81.2%) answered mitigation measure questions. The majority (65%) of study participants were female. RESULTS While the levels of risk being experienced at the pandemic's onset were consistently deemed as unacceptable across all groupings, participants from countries with less income inequality were somewhat less likely to report unacceptable levels of risk to HCWs regarding both workplace environment (OR=0.92, p=0.012) and workplace organisational factors (OR=0.93, p=0.017) compared with counterparts in more unequal national settings. In contrast, considerable variation existed in the degree to which mitigation measures were considered adequate. Adjusting for other influences through a logistic regression analysis, respondents from lower middle-income and low-income countries were comparatively much more likely to assess both occupational health and safety (OR=10.91, p≤0.001) and infection prevention and control (IPC) (OR=6.61, p=0.001) protection measures as inadequate, despite much higher COVID-19 rates in wealthier countries at the time of the survey. Greater within-country income inequality was also associated with perceptions of less adequate IPC measures (OR=0.94, p=0.025). These associations remained significant when accounting for country-level differences in occupational and gender composition of respondents, including specifically when only female care providers, our study's largest and most at-risk subpopulation, were examined. CONCLUSIONS Economic inequality threatens resilience of health systems that rely on health workers working safely to provide needed care during emerging pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean P Harrigan
- Global Health Research Program, School of Population and Public Health, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Vivian W L Tsang
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Annalee Yassi
- Global Health Research Program, School of Population and Public Health, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Muzimkhulu Zungu
- National Institute for Occupational Health, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, University of Pretoria Faculty of Health Sciences, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Jerry M Spiegel
- Global Health Research Program, School of Population and Public Health, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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10
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Conley TD, Piemonte JL, Shukla I, Mangla A, Mateti N, Tariq S. Monogamy as protection against COVID-19?: Non-monogamy stigma and risk (Mis)perception. ANALYSES OF SOCIAL ISSUES AND PUBLIC POLICY : ASAP 2022; 22:ASAP12325. [PMID: 36246084 PMCID: PMC9538616 DOI: 10.1111/asap.12325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 public health messages largely communicated that Americans were "safer at home." Implicit in this advice are messages about protections ostensibly also offered by monogamy-that having more relationships is always more dangerous than having fewer relationships and that closer relationships are always safer-from a disease transmission perspective-than unfamiliar relationships. These heuristics may have led people to discount other COVID-19 dangers (such as spending more time with others of unknown infection status) and to ignore COVID-specific safety measures (such as mask-wearing, and ventilation). We conducted three studies in which we used experimental vignettes to assess people's perceptions of COVID-risky targets in monogamous relationships with a close, committed partner versus targets who were described as non-monogamous with casual partners but relatively COVID-safe. Participants perceived monogamous-but-COVID-riskier targets as more responsible and safer from COVID-19. Non-monogamy stigma seems to extend analogously to COVID-19 risk. Public health messages that fail to attend to the specifics and nuances of close relationships risk contributing to this stigma and ultimately undermining the goals of reducing the spread of infectious disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terri D. Conley
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | | | - Ishita Shukla
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Ananya Mangla
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Nainika Mateti
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Soha Tariq
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
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11
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Vigliar MFR, Pomini KT, Buchaim DV, Buchaim RL. Anatomophysiological relationships and clinical considerations of taste and smell loss in patients with COVID-19. World J Virol 2022; 11:362-374. [PMID: 36188742 PMCID: PMC9523329 DOI: 10.5501/wjv.v11.i5.362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are numerous conflicting discussions about the outbreak of the new coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). AIM To present some anatomical and physiological considerations about two of the symptoms reported by patients: The loss or reduction of smell and taste. METHODS The loss or reduction of smell and taste is presented in a peculiar way, with some cases of persistence even after COVID-19. For this, it was searched in three databases, PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Scopus, using the following keywords: "Smell", "Taste", "Smell AND COVID-19", "Taste AND COVID-19", with no publication time restriction, only in English with full text available, excluding also brief communications, letters to the editor, editorials, reviews, comments, and conference abstracts. RESULTS The search found 776 articles in the PubMed/MEDLINE database, 1018 in the Web of Science database, and 552 in the Scopus database, from which duplicates were removed (104 articles). Finally, 17 studies were selected for detailed analysis within the eligibility criteria, with titles and abstracts related to central nervous system lesions responsible for smell and taste. This review suggests that viral mechanisms of action may be related to lesions both at the local level and at the level of the central nervous system, lasting up to 3 to 4 wk. It is considered persistent if it exceeds this period, as reported in one case in this review. There are still few studies about the treatment, and among those addressed in this review, only two studies reported possible treatments and emphasized the scarcity of data, with the best option being treatments that do not cause harm, such as gustatory and olfactory physiotherapy. CONCLUSION Given the scarcity of data, this review emphasizes the importance of prevention, through the correct use of personal protective equipment by health professionals and respect for local behavioral indications. It is also emphasized, through five studies, that there is a predominance of such symptoms in patients with COVID-19, which can be a tool to control dissemination, through the early isolation of patients until the results are ready.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Fernanda Rossi Vigliar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, Bauru 17012901, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Karina Torres Pomini
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, Bauru 17012901, São Paulo, Brazil
- University of Marilia, Marilia 17525902, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Daniela Vieira Buchaim
- University of Marilia, Marilia 17525902, São Paulo, Brazil
- University Center of Adamantina, Adamantina 17800000, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rogerio Leone Buchaim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, Bauru 17012901, São Paulo, Brazil
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508270, São Paulo, Brazil
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12
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Cramer C, Hansen KK, Kinnerup MB, Flachs EM, Vestergaard JM, Biering K, Nielsen K, Würtz AM, Dalbøge A, Würtz ET, Kjærsgaard M, Kolstad HA, Schlünssen V. Use of Personal Protective Equipment Among Healthcare Workers During the First and the Second Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Ann Work Expo Health 2022; 67:59-75. [PMID: 36039576 PMCID: PMC9452181 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxac054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To treat and properly care for COVID-19 patients it is vital to have healthy healthcare workers to ensure the continued function of the healthcare system and to prevent transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) to patients, co-workers, and the community. Personal protective equipment (PPE) can prevent healthcare workers from being infected with and transmitting SARS-CoV-2. Experience and training are pivotal to ensure optimal protection. This study aims to examine the use and failure of PPE and compliance with PPE guidelines during the first and the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic among Danish healthcare workers. METHODS Healthcare workers from the Central Denmark Region and the Capital Region of Denmark were invited to participate April-June 2020 during the first wave and November 2020-April 2021 during the second wave. Day-by-day, participants reported work procedures, use and failure of PPE, and compliance with PPE guidelines. Register-based information on sex, age, department, and profession was available for all participants. RESULTS In total, 21 684 and 10 097 healthcare workers participated during the first and the second wave, respectively. During the first wave, 1.7% used filtering face piece-2 or -3 (FFP2 or FFP3) respirators and 8.2% used face masks [fluid resistant (type IIR) masks, masks with visor (typically type IIR), and other unspecified face masks] during physical contact with patients. During the second wave, the corresponding figures increased to 17.8% and 80.7%. During respiratory procedures, the use of FFP2 or FFP3 respirators increased from 5.6 to 24.3%, and the use of face masks from 14.7 to 77.8%. The no PPE use decreased from 21.3% during the first wave to 0.4% in the second wave, during respiratory procedures. Total PPE failures decreased from 0.7 to 0.4% from the first to second wave. The proportion not complying with PPE guidelines declined from 3.6 to 2.2% during physical contact with patients and from 6.5 to 4.6% during respiratory procedures. PPE failure and non-compliance varied by age, sex and type of department. Frequent reasons for non-compliance were forgetfulness and lack of time, and during the first but not during the second wave, limited availability of PPE. CONCLUSION We found a substantial increase in the use of PPE and a substantial decrease in PPE failures from the first to the second wave of COVID-19 in Denmark. However, there is still a need for continuous focus on compliance in use of PPE among healthcare workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Cramer
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel.: +4578450900; e-mail:
| | | | - Martin Byskov Kinnerup
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark,Department of Occupational Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Goedstrup Hospital, DK-7400 Herning, Denmark
| | - Esben Meulengracht Flachs
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, DK-2400 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jesper Medom Vestergaard
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark,Department of Occupational Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Goedstrup Hospital, DK-7400 Herning, Denmark
| | - Karin Biering
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Goedstrup Hospital, DK-7400 Herning, Denmark
| | - Kent Nielsen
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Goedstrup Hospital, DK-7400 Herning, Denmark
| | - Anne Mette Würtz
- Department of Public Health, Work, Environment and Health, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Annett Dalbøge
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Else Toft Würtz
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Mona Kjærsgaard
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Aarhus University Hospital, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Henrik Albert Kolstad
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Vivi Schlünssen
- Department of Public Health, Work, Environment and Health, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark,National Research Center for the Working Environment, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
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13
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Cordeiro L, Gnatta JR, Ciofi-Silva CL, Price A, de Oliveira NA, Almeida RMA, Mainardi GM, Srinivas S, Chan W, Levin ASS, Padoveze MC. Personal protective equipment implementation in healthcare: A scoping review. Am J Infect Control 2022; 50:898-905. [PMID: 35908829 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2022.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adherence to infection prevention and control (IPC) measures, including the proper use of protective personal equipment (PPE), in health care is complex and is influenced by many factors. Isolated interventions do not have the potential to achieve optimal PPE adherence and appropriate provision, leading to incomplete PPE implementation. OBJECTIVE To map PPE implementation in health care with a focus on its barriers and facilitators. METHODS A scoping review was conducted across 14 electronic databases using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. RESULTS Seventy-four papers were included in the review. Findings were analyzed and synthesized into categories to match the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research domains. The content was then synthesized into barriers for PPE implementation and interventions to address them. The main barriers were discomfort in clinical work; shortage, supply and logistics problems; inadequacies in facilities infrastructure, weakness in policies and communication procedures; and health workers' (HW) psychological issues and lack of preparedness. Implementation interventions reported were related to HW wellbeing assurance; work reorganization; IPC protocols; adoption of strategies to improve communication and HW training; and adoption of structural and organizational changes to improve PPE adherence. CONCLUSIONS PPE implementation, which is critical IPC programs, involves multilevel transdisciplinary complexity. It relies on the development of context-driven implementation strategies to inform and harmonize IPC policy in collaboration with local and international health bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Cordeiro
- School of Nursing, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Dr. Enéas Carvalho de Aguiar, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Juliana Rizzo Gnatta
- Stanford Anesthesia and Informatics Media Lab, Stanford School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | | | - Amy Price
- Stanford Anesthesia and Informatics Media Lab, Stanford School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Naila Albertina de Oliveira
- Graduate Program in Nursing, School of Nursing, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Rua Napoleão de Barros, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Giulia M Mainardi
- School of Nursing, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Dr. Enéas Carvalho de Aguiar, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Shrinidhy Srinivas
- Stanford Anesthesia and Informatics Media Lab, Stanford School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Whitney Chan
- Stanford Anesthesia and Informatics Media Lab, Stanford School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Anna Sara S Levin
- Clinical Hospital of Faculty of Medicine of University of Sao Paulo. R. Dr. Ovídio Pires de Campos, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Clara Padoveze
- School of Nursing, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Dr. Enéas Carvalho de Aguiar, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Sischka PE, Schmidt AF, Steffgen G. COVID-19 countermeasures at the workplace, psychological well-being, and mental health - a nationally representative latent class analysis of Luxembourgish employees. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022:1-17. [PMID: 35855732 PMCID: PMC9281335 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03377-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has massively changed people's working lives all over the world. While various studies investigated the effects from pandemic-induced unemployment and telecommuting, there is a lack of research regarding the impact of workplace COVID-19 countermeasures on well-being and mental health for employees who are still working on site. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence of workplace COVID-19 countermeasures in organizations in Luxembourg. A person-centered approach was applied in order to explore how employees' psychological well-being and health (i.e., general psychological well-being, vigor, work satisfaction, work-related burnout, somatic complaints, fear of COVID-19 infection) are impacted by organizational countermeasures and whether there are certain employee groups that are less protected by these. Results of a latent class analysis revealed four different classes (Low level of countermeasures, Medium level of countermeasures, High level of countermeasures, High level of countermeasures low distance). Employees working in a healthcare setting were more likely than employees working in a non-healthcare setting to be members of the High level of countermeasures low distance class. Class membership was meaningfully associated with all well-being outcomes. Members of the High level of countermeasures class showed the highest level of well-being, whereas Members of the Low level of countermeasures class and the High level of countermeasures low distance class showed the lowest level of well-being. Policy makers and organizations are recommended to increase the level of COVID-19 countermeasures as an adjunctive strategy to prevent and mitigate adverse mental health and well-being outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12144-022-03377-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp E. Sischka
- Department of Behavioural and Cognitive Sciences, Institute for Health and Behavior, University of Luxembourg, Maison des Sciences Humaines, 11, Porte des Sciences, L-4366 Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Alexander F. Schmidt
- Institute of Psychology, Social & Legal Psychology, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Georges Steffgen
- Department of Behavioural and Cognitive Sciences, Institute for Health and Behavior, University of Luxembourg, Maison des Sciences Humaines, 11, Porte des Sciences, L-4366 Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
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15
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Nashwan AJ, Valdez GFD, AL-Fayyadh S, Al-Najjar H, Elamir H, Barakat M, Almazan JU, Jahlan IO, Alabdulaziz H, Omar NE, Alawneh F, Andika Priastana IK, Alhanafi A, Abu-Hussein B, Al-Shammari M, Shaban MM, Shaban M, AL-Hadrawi H, Al-Jubouri MB, Jaafar SA, Hussein SM, Nashwan AJ, Alharahsheh MA, Kader N, Alabdulla M, Nazarene A, Yassin MA, Villar RC. Stigma towards health care providers taking care of COVID-19 patients: A multi-country study. Heliyon 2022; 8:e09300. [PMID: 35464709 PMCID: PMC9015722 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health care providers (HCPs) have always been a common target of stigmatization during widespread infections and COVID-19 is not an exception. AIM This study aims to investigate the prevalence of stigmatization during the COVID-19 pandemic among HCPs in seven different countries using the Stigma COVID-19 Healthcare Providers tool (S19-HCPs). DESIGN Cross-sectional. METHODS The S19-HCPs is a self-administered online survey (16-item) developed and validated by the research team. The participants were invited to complete an online survey. Data collection started from June-July 2020 using a convenience sample of HCPs from Iraq, Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Philippines, and Kuwait. RESULTS A total number of 1726 participants were included in the final analysis. The majority of the study participants were Jordanians (22%), followed by Kuwaitis (19%), Filipinos (18%) and the lowest participants were Indonesians (6%). Other nationalities were Iraqis, Saudis, and Egyptians with 15%, 11% and 9% respectively. Among the respondents, 57% have worked either in a COVID-19 designated facility or in a quarantine center and 78% claimed that they had received training for COVID-19. Statistical significance between COVID-19 stigma and demographic variables were found in all aspect of the S19-HCPs. CONCLUSION The findings of this study demonstrated high levels of stigmatization against HCPs in all the included seven countries. On the other hand, they are still perceived positively by their communities and in their utmost, highly motivated to care for COVID-19 patients. Educational and awareness programs could have a crucial role in the solution of stigmatization problems over the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulqadir J. Nashwan
- Department of Nursing Education & Practice Development, Hazm Mebaireek General Hospital (HMGH), Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary in Qatar (UCQ), Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Sadeq AL-Fayyadh
- Adult Nursing Department, College of Nursing, The University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Hani Al-Najjar
- Department of Surgery, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan
| | - Hossam Elamir
- Quality and Accreditation Directorate, Ministry of Health, Kuwait
| | - Muna Barakat
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Joseph U. Almazan
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Nazarbayev University, Nursultan, Kazakhstan
| | - Ibtesam O. Jahlan
- Maternal and Child Health Nursing Care Department, College of Nursing, King Saud University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hawa Alabdulaziz
- Maternity and Children Department, Faculty of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nabil E. Omar
- Pharmacy Department, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar
| | - Fade Alawneh
- Department of Surgery, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan
| | | | | | | | | | - Marwa M. Shaban
- Community Health Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mostafa Shaban
- Geriatric Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | | | - Sabah A. Jaafar
- Adult Nursing Department, College of Nursing, University of Al-Muthanna, Iraq
| | - Shaymaa M. Hussein
- Adult Nursing Department, College of Nursing, The University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Ayat J. Nashwan
- Department of Sociology and Social Work, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | | | - Nisha Kader
- Mental Health Services (MHS), Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar
| | - Majid Alabdulla
- Mental Health Services (MHS), Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar
- College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ananth Nazarene
- Department of Nursing, Mental Health Services (MHS), Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohamed A. Yassin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar
| | - Ralph C. Villar
- Department of Nursing Education & Practice Development, Hazm Mebaireek General Hospital (HMGH), Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar
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16
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Spies R, Potter M, Govender S, Kirk L, Rauch S, Black J. SARS-CoV-2 infection in public hospital medical doctors in an Eastern Cape metro. S Afr J Infect Dis 2022; 37:335. [PMID: 35399560 PMCID: PMC8991316 DOI: 10.4102/sajid.v37i1.335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ruan Spies
- Department of Medicine, Port Elizabeth Hospital Complex, Gqeberha, South Africa
| | - Matthew Potter
- Department of Medicine, Port Elizabeth Hospital Complex, Gqeberha, South Africa
| | - Sudarshan Govender
- Department of Medicine, Port Elizabeth Hospital Complex, Gqeberha, South Africa
| | - Luke Kirk
- Department of Medicine, Port Elizabeth Hospital Complex, Gqeberha, South Africa
| | - Simon Rauch
- Department of Medicine, Port Elizabeth Hospital Complex, Gqeberha, South Africa
| | - John Black
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Livingstone Hospital, Gqeberha, South Africa
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Implementation of initiatives designed to improve healthcare worker health and wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic: comparative case studies from 13 healthcare provider organisations globally. Global Health 2022; 18:24. [PMID: 35193629 PMCID: PMC8862403 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-022-00818-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Healthcare workers are at a disproportionate risk of contracting COVID-19. The physical and mental repercussions of such risk have an impact on the wellbeing of healthcare workers around the world. Healthcare workers are the foundation of all well-functioning health systems capable of responding to the ongoing pandemic; initiatives to address and reduce such risk are critical. Since the onset of the pandemic healthcare organizations have embarked on the implementation of a range of initiatives designed to improve healthcare worker health and wellbeing. Methods Through a qualitative collective case study approach where participants responded to a longform survey, the facilitators, and barriers to implementing such initiatives were explored, offering global insights into the challenges faced at the organizational level. 13 healthcare organizations were surveyed across 13 countries. Of these 13 participants, 5 subsequently provided missing information through longform interviews or written clarifications. Results 13 case studies were received from healthcare provider organizations. Mental health initiatives were the most commonly described health and wellbeing initiatives among respondents. Physical health and health and safety focused initiatives, such as the adaption of workspaces, were also described. Strong institutional level direction, including engaged leadership, and the input, feedback, and engagement of frontline staff were the two main facilitators in implementing initiatives. The most common barrier was HCWs’ fear of contracting COVID-19 / fear of passing COVID-19 to family members. In organizations who discussed infection prevention and control initiatives, inadequate personal protective equipment and supply chain disruption were highlighted by respondents. Conclusions Common themes emerge globally in exploring the enablers and barriers to implementing initiatives to improve healthcare workers health and wellbeing through the COVID-19 pandemic. Consideration of the themes outlined in the paper by healthcare organizations could help influence the design and deployment of future initiatives ahead of implementation.
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18
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Moore DJ, Dawkins D, Hampton MD, McNiesh S. Experiences of critical care nurses during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nurs Ethics 2022; 29:540-551. [PMID: 35135393 DOI: 10.1177/09697330211043273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Critical care nurses have risked their lives and in some cases their families through hazardous duty during the COVID-19 pandemic and have faced multiple ethical challenges. RESEARCH/AIM The purpose of our study was to examine how critical care nurses coped with the sustained multi-faceted pressures of the critical care environment during the unchartered waters of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was anticipated that our study might reveal numerous ethical challenges and decision points. RESEARCH DESIGN A qualitative descriptive study, utilizing an interpretivist paradigm. PARTICIPANTS AND RESEARCH SETTING Critical care nurses, working in either intensive care units or emergency departments (N = 11) who were primarily from Northern California hospitals. Individual in-depth ZOOM® session interviews, guided by semi-structured questions, were used to collect data. Interviews lasted between 18 and 59 min, with an average length of 33 min. Session interviews were transcribed and analyzed. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS This study was approved by the researchers' university Institutional Review Board. FINDINGS Five main themes emerged: Fear of the Unknown, Adapting to Practice Changes and Challenges, Patient Advocacy and Moral Distress, Isolation and the Depersonalization of Care, and Professionalism and a Call to Duty. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Fear of becoming ill or bringing COVID-19 home to their families was a constant source of anxiety for nurses. There were numerous changes in policy and challenges to standard practice protocols, including most notably shortages in personal protective equipment, which nurses navigated resourcefully. Most nurses interviewed were motivated by a sense of professional duty. The nurses experienced some moral distress in their inability to advocate as they might like for their patients, especially at end of life. Infection control requirements for isolation.
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19
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Tran TT, Vo TV, Hoang TD, Hoang MV, Tran NTQ, Colebunders R. Adherence to COVID-19 Preventive Measures among Dental Care Workers in Vietnam: An Online Cross-Sectional Survey. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:481. [PMID: 35010744 PMCID: PMC8744692 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
An online cross-sectional survey using a "snowball" sampling method was carried out to assess the adherence to COVID-19 preventive measures among dental care workers (DCWs) during the pandemic. Six questions concerning the COVID-19 preventive guidelines issued by the Vietnam Ministry of Health were used to evaluate DCWs' adherence to preventive measures at dental care clinics. The quality of life of DCWs was assessed using the WHO-5 questionnaire and was defined as low if the total score was less than 13 points. Factors relating to adherence to COVID-19 prevention measures of DCWs were determined by multivariate linear regression analysis. In total, 514 DCWs completed the questionnaire. A total of 37% DCWs rated their quality of life as low. Regression analysis suggested that older age, a better quality of life, living in an urban area, and training on COVID-19 prevention were associated with better adherence to COVID-19 preventive measures, while being a dentist and lack of personal protective equipment was associated with less adherence to COVID-19 preventive measures. The pandemic had a significant negative impact on the physical and mental health of DCWs. Therefore, specific national guidelines for the prevention and control of the spread of COVID-19 in dental facilities should be issued.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tai Tan Tran
- Faculty of Odonto-Stomatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue 530000, Vietnam; (T.T.T.); (M.V.H.); (N.T.Q.T.)
| | - Thang Van Vo
- Institute for Community Health Research, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue 530000, Vietnam; (T.V.V.); (T.D.H.)
- Faculty of Public Health, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue 530000, Vietnam
| | - Tuyen Dinh Hoang
- Institute for Community Health Research, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue 530000, Vietnam; (T.V.V.); (T.D.H.)
- Faculty of Public Health, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue 530000, Vietnam
| | - Minh Vu Hoang
- Faculty of Odonto-Stomatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue 530000, Vietnam; (T.T.T.); (M.V.H.); (N.T.Q.T.)
| | - Nhu Thi Quynh Tran
- Faculty of Odonto-Stomatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue 530000, Vietnam; (T.T.T.); (M.V.H.); (N.T.Q.T.)
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Rivers JK, Arlette JP, DeKoven J, Guenther LC, Muhn C, Richer V, Rosen N, Tremblay JF, Wiseman MC, Zip C, Zloty D. Skin care and hygiene among healthcare professionals during and after the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. SAGE Open Med 2021; 9:20503121211062795. [PMID: 34917384 PMCID: PMC8669117 DOI: 10.1177/20503121211062795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic has necessitated enhanced protection against viral transmission among healthcare professionals, particularly relating to handwashing and personal protective equipment. Some of these requirements may persist for years to come. They bring associated concerns around skin hygiene and general care, with damage to the face and hands now a well-documented consequence among healthcare professionals. This review assesses optimal skin care during the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic and in the "new normal" that will follow, identifies current knowledge gaps, and provides practical advice for the clinical setting. Regular, systematic hand cleaning with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub (containing 60%-90% ethanol or isopropyl alcohol) remains essential, although the optimal quantity and duration is unclear. Gloves are a useful additional barrier; further studies are needed on preferred materials. Moisturization is typically helpful and has proven benefits in mitigating damage from frequent handwashing. It may be best practiced using an alcohol-based hand rub with added moisturizer and could be particularly important among individuals with pre-existing hand dermatoses, such as psoriasis and eczema. Face moisturization immediately prior to donning a mask, and the use of dressings under the mask to reduce friction, can be helpful dermatologically, but more work is required to prove that these actions do not affect seal integrity. Nonetheless, such measures could play a role in institutional plans for mitigating the dermatologic impact of transmission control measures as we exit the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason K Rivers
- Department of Dermatology and Skin Science, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Pacific Derm, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - John P Arlette
- Department of Surgery, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Joel DeKoven
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Lyn C Guenther
- Division of Dermatology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Guenther Research Inc., London, ON, Canada
| | - Channy Muhn
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Dermetics, Burlington, ON, Canada
| | - Vincent Richer
- Department of Dermatology and Skin Science, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Pacific Derm, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | | | - Marni C Wiseman
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Skinwise Dermatology, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | | - David Zloty
- Department of Dermatology and Skin Science, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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21
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Mendoza-Saldaña JD, Viton-Rubio JE, Guzman-Carrasco SB, Pacheco-Barrios NV, Lainez-Casal CR. Characteristics and outcomes from COVID-19 among Peruvian physicians: a nationwide register-based study. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH 2021; 77:697-701. [PMID: 34872467 DOI: 10.1080/19338244.2021.2011694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The healthcare workforce has played an integral role in fighting COVID-19 and continues to do so despite the continuous adverse outcomes. To address this issue, official public data concerning COVID-19 cases and deaths of Peruvian physicians was used to quantify the risk of death and infection by SARS-CoV-2. 20.9% Peruvian physicians were infected and 0.7% died, with the male general practitioners being the most affected group within the workforce. Notably, the Loreto region was disproportionately affected and had the highest cumulative incidence, mortality and case fatality rate. Ultimately, this identified risk group needs to be supported with sufficient resources/tools such as personal protective equipment, training, access to health care, vaccination, etc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan-Diego Mendoza-Saldaña
- School of Medicine Alberto Hurtado, Cayetano Heredia Peruvian University, Lima, Peru
- High Altitude Research Institute, Cayetano Heredia Peruvian University, Lima, Peru
- Mental Health Working Group, Cayetano Heredia Peruvian University, Lima, Peru
- TBout Volunteering and Working Group, Cayetano Heredia Peruvian University, Lima, Peru
| | - José Enrique Viton-Rubio
- School of Medicine Alberto Hurtado, Cayetano Heredia Peruvian University, Lima, Peru
- High Altitude Research Institute, Cayetano Heredia Peruvian University, Lima, Peru
- Mental Health Working Group, Cayetano Heredia Peruvian University, Lima, Peru
- TBout Volunteering and Working Group, Cayetano Heredia Peruvian University, Lima, Peru
| | - Susana Brissvany Guzman-Carrasco
- School of Medicine Alberto Hurtado, Cayetano Heredia Peruvian University, Lima, Peru
- TBout Volunteering and Working Group, Cayetano Heredia Peruvian University, Lima, Peru
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22
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Rees CA, Ali M, Kisenge R, Ideh RC, Sirna SJ, Britto CD, Kazembe PN, Niescierenko M, Duggan CP, Manji KP. Where there is no local author: a network bibliometric analysis of authorship parasitism among research conducted in sub-Saharan Africa. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 6:e006982. [PMID: 34706882 PMCID: PMC8552133 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-006982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Authorship parasitism (ie, no authors affiliated with the country in which the study took place) occurs frequently in research conducted in low-income and middle-income countries, despite published recommendations defining authorship criteria. The objective was to compare characteristics of articles exhibiting authorship parasitism in sub-Saharan Africa to articles with author representation from sub-Saharan African countries. METHODS A bibliometric review of articles indexed in PubMed published from January 2014 through December 2018 reporting research conducted in sub-Saharan Africa was performed. Author affiliations were assigned to countries based on regular expression algorithms. Choropleth maps and network diagrams were created to determine where authorship parasitism occurred, and multivariable logistic regression was used to determine associated factors. RESULTS Of 32 061 articles, 14.8% (n=4754) demonstrated authorship parasitism, which was most common among studies from Somalia (n=175/233, 75.1%) and Sao Tome and Principe (n=20/28, 71.4%). Authors affiliated with USA and UK institutions were most commonly involved in articles exhibiting authorship parasitism. Authorship parasitism was more common in articles: published in North American journals (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.26, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.50) than in sub-Saharan African journals, reporting work from multiple sub-Saharan African countries (aOR 8.41, 95% CI 7.30 to 9.68) compared with work from upper-middle income sub-Saharan African countries, with <5 authors (aOR 14.46, 95% CI 12.81 to 16.35) than >10 authors, and was less common in articles published in French (aOR 0.60, 95% CI 0.41 to 0.85) than English. CONCLUSIONS Authorship parasitism was common in articles reporting research conducted in sub-Saharan Africa. There were reliable predictors of authorship parasitism. Investigators and institutions in high-income countries, as well as funding agencies and journals should promote research from sub-Saharan Africa, including its publication, in a collaborative and equitable manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris A Rees
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Mohsin Ali
- Divison of Infectious Diseases, Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rodrick Kisenge
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Readon C Ideh
- Department of Pediatrics, John F. Kennedy Medical Center, Monrovia, Liberia
| | - Stephanie J Sirna
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Carl D Britto
- Boston Combined Residency Program, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Michelle Niescierenko
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christopher P Duggan
- Center for Nutrition, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Departments of Nutrition and Global Health and Population, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Karim P Manji
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Osei-Poku G, Szczerepa O, Potter A, Malone M, Fain B, Prentice J. Safety Trade-Offs in Home Care During COVID-19: A Mixed Methods Study Capturing the Perspective of Frontline Workers. PATIENT SAFETY 2021. [DOI: 10.33940/infection/2021.9.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Home care workers help older individuals and those with disabilities with a variety of functional tasks. Despite their core role providing essential care to vulnerable populations, home care workers are often an invisible sector of the healthcare workforce. The transmission of COVID-19 and the nature of home care work raise several questions about the overall safety of these workers during the pandemic.
Objective: To examine the experiences of home care workers during COVID-19, particularly their access to information about infection status, to testing, and to personal protective equipment (PPE); their understanding of guidelines; and trade-offs associated with protecting workers’ safety.
Methods: A mixed methods study including qualitative analysis of guided discussion questions and quantitative analysis of multiple-choice survey questions was conducted. Eleven virtual focus groups in October and November 2020 involved 83 home care workers who care for clients/consumers in Massachusetts. Thirty-nine participants worked as personal care attendants (PCAs) employed directly by a consumer and 44 participants worked for an agency. Ninety percent self-identified as female and 54% had worked in home care for more than five years. Qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis, with identification of major and minor themes. Likert scale survey question data on perceptions of COVID-19 exposure, access to resources to prevent transmission, and perceptions of safety at work were dichotomized into agree or disagree.
Results: PCAs and agency-employed home care workers were regularly faced with trade-offs between meeting client/consumer needs and protecting themselves from COVID-19 exposure. Twenty-five percent of participants reported serving a client/consumer who had COVID-19, 75% reported worrying about getting COVID-19 at work, and 29% reported thinking about stopping their work in home care. Despite a low pay structure, participants reported opting to risk exposure rather than to leave their clients/consumers without essential care. However, workers often lacked the resources (e.g., PPE, testing) to feel truly protected. This scarcity of resources combined with insufficient guidance and policies specific to home care settings led many workers to informally collaborate with clients/consumers to assess exposure risks and agree upon safety protocols. Focus group participants expressed uncertainty as to whether workers were truly empowered to ask for changes if conditions seemed unsafe. The burden of determining safety protocols was felt more strongly by PCAs who operate more independently than agency-employed workers who have supervisors to consult.
Conclusions: Home care workers expressed deep commitment to continuing to care for their clients/consumers during COVID-19, but often had to operate with insufficient resources and under conditions that made their work environments feel unsafe. Their ability to identify exposure risks and make decisions on how to protect themselves often hinged on a transparent and trusting relationship with their clients/consumers. These relationships were particularly important for PCAs who did not have access to safety guidance from a home care agency.
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Ahmad IA, Osei E. Occupational Health and Safety Measures in Healthcare Settings during COVID-19: Strategies for Protecting Staff, Patients and Visitors. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2021; 17:e48. [PMID: 34517932 PMCID: PMC8523969 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2021.294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has profoundly impacted almost every aspect of healthcare systems worldwide, placing the health and safety of frontline healthcare workers at risk, and it still continues to remain an important public health challenge. Several hospitals have put in place strategies to manage space, staff, and supplies in order to continue to deliver optimum care to patients while at the same time protecting the health and safety of staff and patients. However, the emergence of the second and third waves of the virus with the influx of new cases continue to add an additional level of complexity to the already challenging situation of containing the spread and lowering the rate of transmission, thus pushing healthcare systems to the limit. In this narrative review paper, we describe various strategies including administrative controls, environmental controls, and use of personal protective equipment, implemented by occupational health and safety departments for the protection of healthcare workers, patients, and visitors from SARS-CoV-2 virus infection. The protection and safeguard of the health and safety of healthcare workers and patients through the implementation of effective infection control measures, adequate management of possible outbreaks and minimization of the risk of nosocomial transmission is an important and effective strategy of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic management in any healthcare facility. High quality patient care hinges on ensuring that the care providers are well protected and supported so they can provide the best quality of care to their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isra Asma Ahmad
- Department of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Ernest Osei
- Department of Medical Physics, Grand River Regional Cancer Centre, Kitchener, ON, Canada
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
- Department of Systems Design Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ONCanada
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25
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Hines JZ, Fwoloshi S, Kampamba D, Barradas DT, Banda D, Zulu JE, Wolkon A, Yingst S, Boyd MA, Siwingwa M, Chirwa L, Kapina M, Sinyange N, Mukonka V, Malama K, Mulenga LB, Agolory S. SARS-CoV-2 Prevalence among Outpatients during Community Transmission, Zambia, July 2020. Emerg Infect Dis 2021; 27:2166-2168. [PMID: 34287124 PMCID: PMC8314838 DOI: 10.3201/eid2708.210502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
During the July 2020 first wave of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in Zambia, PCR-measured prevalence was 13.4% among outpatients at health facilities, an absolute difference of 5.7% compared with prevalence among community members. This finding suggests that facility testing might be an effective strategy during high community transmission.
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Yassi A, Grant JM, Lockhart K, Barker S, Sprague S, Okpani AI, Wong T, Daly P, Henderson W, Lubin S, Kim Sing C. Infection control, occupational and public health measures including mRNA-based vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 infections to protect healthcare workers from variants of concern: A 14-month observational study using surveillance data. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0254920. [PMID: 34270608 PMCID: PMC8284646 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0254920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We evaluated measures to protect healthcare workers (HCWs) in Vancouver, Canada, where variants of concern (VOC) went from <1% VOC in February 2021 to >92% in mid-May. Canada has amongst the longest periods between vaccine doses worldwide, despite Vancouver having the highest P.1 variant rate outside Brazil. METHODS With surveillance data since the pandemic began, we tracked laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections, positivity rates, and vaccine uptake in all 25,558 HCWs in Vancouver Coastal Health, by occupation and subsector, and compared to the general population. Cox regression modelling adjusted for age and calendar-time calculated vaccine effectiveness (VE) against SARS-CoV-2 in fully vaccinated (≥ 7 days post-second dose), partially vaccinated infection (after 14 days) and unvaccinated HCWs; we also compared with unvaccinated community members of the same age-range. FINDINGS Only 3.3% of our HCWs became infected, mirroring community rates, with peak positivity of 9.1%, compared to 11.8% in the community. As vaccine coverage increased, SARS-CoV-2 infections declined significantly in HCWs, despite a surge with predominantly VOC; unvaccinated HCWs had an infection rate of 1.3/10,000 person-days compared to 0.89 for HCWs post first dose, and 0.30 for fully vaccinated HCWs. VE compared to unvaccinated HCWs was 37.2% (95% CI: 16.6-52.7%) 14 days post-first dose, 79.2% (CI: 64.6-87.8%) 7 days post-second dose; one dose provided significant protection against infection until at least day 42. Compared with community infection rates, VE after one dose was 54.7% (CI: 44.8-62.9%); and 84.8% (CI: 75.2-90.7%) when fully vaccinated. INTERPRETATION Rigorous droplet-contact precautions with N95s for aerosol-generating procedures are effective in preventing occupational infection in HCWs, with one dose of mRNA vaccination further reducing infection risk despite VOC and transmissibility concerns. Delaying second doses to allow more widespread vaccination against severe disease, with strict public health, occupational health and infection control measures, has been effective in protecting the healthcare workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalee Yassi
- School of Population and Public Health (SPPH), University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia (BC), Canada
- Physician Occupational Safety and Health, Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), Vancouver, Canada
| | - Jennifer M. Grant
- Physician Occupational Safety and Health, Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), Vancouver, Canada
- Division of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, VCH, Vancouver, Canada
- Division of Medical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, UBC, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Karen Lockhart
- School of Population and Public Health (SPPH), University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia (BC), Canada
| | - Stephen Barker
- School of Population and Public Health (SPPH), University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia (BC), Canada
| | - Stacy Sprague
- Employee Safety, Health and Wellness, VCH, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Arnold I. Okpani
- School of Population and Public Health (SPPH), University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia (BC), Canada
- Physician Occupational Safety and Health, Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Titus Wong
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), Vancouver, Canada
- Division of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, VCH, Vancouver, Canada
- Division of Medical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, UBC, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Patricia Daly
- School of Population and Public Health (SPPH), University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia (BC), Canada
- Public Health, VCH, Vancouver, Canada
| | - William Henderson
- Department of Medicine, UBC, Vancouver, Canada
- Vancouver Acute, Emergency Operations Centre, VCH, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Stan Lubin
- Physician Occupational Safety and Health, Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Chad Kim Sing
- Medicine, Quality and Safety, VCH, Vancouver, Canada
- Department of Emergency Medicine, UBC, Vancouver, Canada
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27
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Kim H, Rebholz CM, Hegde S, LaFiura C, Raghavan M, Lloyd JF, Cheng S, Seidelmann SB. Plant-based diets, pescatarian diets and COVID-19 severity: a population-based case-control study in six countries. BMJ Nutr Prev Health 2021; 4:257-266. [PMID: 34308134 PMCID: PMC8219480 DOI: 10.1136/bmjnph-2021-000272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have hypothesised that dietary habits may play an important role in COVID-19 infection, severity of symptoms, and duration of illness. However, no previous studies have investigated the association between dietary patterns and COVID-19. METHODS Healthcare workers (HCWs) from six countries (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, UK, USA) with substantial exposure to COVID-19 patients completed a web-based survey from 17 July to 25 September 2020. Participants provided information on demographic characteristics, dietary information, and COVID-19 outcomes. We used multivariable logistic regression models to evaluate the association between self-reported diets and COVID-19 infection, severity, and duration. RESULTS There were 568 COVID-19 cases and 2316 controls. Among the 568 cases, 138 individuals had moderate-to-severe COVID-19 severity whereas 430 individuals had very mild to mild COVID-19 severity. After adjusting for important confounders, participants who reported following 'plant-based diets' and 'plant-based diets or pescatarian diets' had 73% (OR 0.27, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.81) and 59% (OR 0.41, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.99) lower odds of moderate-to-severe COVID-19 severity, respectively, compared with participants who did not follow these diets. Compared with participants who reported following 'plant-based diets', those who reported following 'low carbohydrate, high protein diets' had greater odds of moderate-to-severe COVID-19 (OR 3.86, 95% CI 1.13 to 13.24). No association was observed between self-reported diets and COVID-19 infection or duration. CONCLUSION In six countries, plant-based diets or pescatarian diets were associated with lower odds of moderate-to-severe COVID-19. These dietary patterns may be considered for protection against severe COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunju Kim
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiolgy, and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Casey M Rebholz
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiolgy, and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Sheila Hegde
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham & Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - John F Lloyd
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Susan Cheng
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sara B Seidelmann
- Department of Medicine, Stamford Hospital, Stamford, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
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Repeated Exposure to Subinfectious Doses of SARS-CoV-2 May Promote T Cell Immunity and Protection against Severe COVID-19. Viruses 2021; 13:v13060961. [PMID: 34067349 PMCID: PMC8224680 DOI: 10.3390/v13060961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Europe is experiencing a third wave of COVID-19 due to the spread of highly transmissible SARS-CoV-2 variants. A number of positive and negative factors constantly shape the rates of COVID-19 infections, hospitalization, and mortality. Among these factors, the rise in increasingly transmissible variants on one side and the effect of vaccinations on the other side create a picture deeply different from that of the first pandemic wave. Starting from the observation that in several European countries the number of COVID-19 infections in the second and third pandemic wave increased without a proportional rise in disease severity and mortality, we hypothesize the existence of an additional factor influencing SARS-CoV-2 dynamics. This factor consists of an immune defence against severe COVID-19, provided by SARS-CoV-2-specific T cells progressively developing upon natural exposure to low virus doses present in populated environments. As suggested by recent studies, low-dose viral particles entering the respiratory and intestinal tracts may be able to induce T cell memory in the absence of inflammation, potentially resulting in different degrees of immunization. In this scenario, non-pharmaceutical interventions would play a double role, one in the short term by reducing the detrimental spreading of SARS-CoV-2 particles, and one in the long term by allowing the development of a widespread (although heterogeneous and uncontrollable) form of immune protection.
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Bella A, Akbar MT, Kusnadi G, Herlinda O, Regita PA, Kusuma D. Socioeconomic and Behavioral Correlates of COVID-19 Infections among Hospital Workers in the Greater Jakarta Area, Indonesia: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:5048. [PMID: 34064580 PMCID: PMC8151868 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18105048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
(1) Background: because of close contacts with COVID-19 patients, hospital workers are among the highest risk groups for infection. This study examined the socioeconomic and behavioral correlates of COVID-19 infection among hospital workers in Indonesia, the country hardest-hit by the disease in the Southeast Asia region. (2) Methods: we conducted a cross-sectional study, which collected data from 1397 hospital staff from eight hospitals in the Greater Jakarta area during April-July 2020. The data was collected using an online self-administered questionnaire and Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) tests. We employed descriptive statistics and adjusted and unadjusted logistic regressions to analyze the data of hospital workers as well as the subgroups of healthcare and non-healthcare workers. (3) Results: from a total of 1397 hospital staff in the study, 22 (1.6%) were infected. In terms of correlates, being a healthcare worker (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 8.31, 95% CI 1.27-54.54) and having a household size of more than five (AOR = 4.09, 1.02-16.43) were significantly associated with a higher risk of infection. On the other hand, those with middle- and upper-expenditure levels were shown to have a lower risk of infection (AOR = 0.06, 0.01-0.66). Behavioral factors associated with COVID-19 infection among healthcare and non-healthcare workers included knowledge of standard personal protective equipment (PPE) (AOR = 0.08, 0.01-0.54) and application of the six-step handwashing technique (AOR = 0.32, 0.12-0.83). (4) Conclusion: among hospital staff, correlates of COVID-19 infection included being a healthcare worker, household size, expenditure level, knowledge and use of PPE, and application of appropriate hand washing techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrianna Bella
- Center for Indonesia’s Strategic Development Initiatives (CISDI), Jakarta 10350, Indonesia; (A.B.); (M.T.A.); (G.K.); (O.H.); (P.A.R.)
| | - Mochamad Thoriq Akbar
- Center for Indonesia’s Strategic Development Initiatives (CISDI), Jakarta 10350, Indonesia; (A.B.); (M.T.A.); (G.K.); (O.H.); (P.A.R.)
| | - Gita Kusnadi
- Center for Indonesia’s Strategic Development Initiatives (CISDI), Jakarta 10350, Indonesia; (A.B.); (M.T.A.); (G.K.); (O.H.); (P.A.R.)
| | - Olivia Herlinda
- Center for Indonesia’s Strategic Development Initiatives (CISDI), Jakarta 10350, Indonesia; (A.B.); (M.T.A.); (G.K.); (O.H.); (P.A.R.)
| | - Putri Aprilia Regita
- Center for Indonesia’s Strategic Development Initiatives (CISDI), Jakarta 10350, Indonesia; (A.B.); (M.T.A.); (G.K.); (O.H.); (P.A.R.)
| | - Dian Kusuma
- Centre for Health Economics & Policy Innovation, Imperial College Business School, London SW7 2AZ, UK
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Sensor CS, Branden PS, Clary-Muronda V, Hawkins JE, Fitzgerald D, Shimek AM, Al-Itani D, Madigan EA, Rosa WE. Nurses Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals: The United Nations and Sigma. Am J Nurs 2021; 121:65-68. [PMID: 33755634 PMCID: PMC8051639 DOI: 10.1097/01.naj.0000742544.07615.db] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
This article is one in a series in which contributing authors discuss how the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are linked to everyday clinical issues; national public health emergencies; and other nursing issues, such as leadership, shared governance, and advocacy. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, a 15-year plan of action to achieve the goals, was unanimously adopted by all UN member states in September 2015 and took effect on January 1, 2016. The Agenda consists of 17 SDGs addressing social, economic, and environmental determinants of health and 169 associated targets focused on five themes: people, planet, peace, prosperity, and partnership. The SDGs build on the work of the UN Millennium Development Goals, which were in effect from 2000 to 2015. The current article highlights SDGs 5 (gender equality), 8 (decent work and economic growth), and 17 (partnerships for the goals), along with the advocacy of these goals by Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing in the UN system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connie Sobon Sensor
- Connie Sobon Sensor is assistant professor and director of the school nurse program at Rutgers University in Newark, NJ; Pennie Sessler Branden is adjunct faculty at Quinnipiac University in North Haven, CT; Valerie Clary-Muronda is assistant professor at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia; Janice E. Hawkins is clinical associate professor at Old Dominion University School of Nursing in Virginia Beach, VA; Dawn Fitzgerald is a DNP student at Columbia University School of Nursing in New York City; Aric M. Shimek is a telehealth program manager at the Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago; Dania Al-Itani is a DNP student at the Loma Linda University School of Nursing in Loma Linda, CA; Elizabeth A. Madigan is chief executive officer at Sigma Theta Tau International in Indianapolis, IN; and William E. Rosa is a psycho-oncology postdoctoral research fellow at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. Contact author: William E. Rosa, . William E. Rosa is funded by the NIH/NCI Cancer Center Support Grant P30 CA008748 and the NCI award number T32 CA009461
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Kim H, Hegde S, LaFiura C, Raghavan M, Luong E, Cheng S, Rebholz CM, Seidelmann SB. COVID-19 illness in relation to sleep and burnout. BMJ Nutr Prev Health 2021; 4:132-139. [PMID: 34308120 PMCID: PMC7995669 DOI: 10.1136/bmjnph-2021-000228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sleep habits and burnout have been shown to be associated with increase in infectious diseases, but it is unknown if these factors are associated with risk of COVID-19. We assessed whether sleep and self-reported burnout may be risk factors for COVID-19 among high-risk healthcare workers (HCWs). Methods From 17 July to 25 September 2020, a web-based survey was administered to HCWs in six countries (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, UK, USA) with a high frequency of workplace exposure. Participants provided information on demographics, sleep (number of sleep hours at night, daytime napping hours, sleep problems), burnout from work and COVID-19 exposures. We used multivariable linear and logistic regression models to evaluate the associations between sleep, burnout and COVID-19. Results Among 2884 exposed HCWs, there were 568 COVID-19 cases and 2316 controls. After adjusting for confounders, 1-hour longer sleep duration at night was associated with 12% lower odds of COVID-19 (p=0.003). Daytime napping hours was associated with 6% higher odds, but the association varied by countries, with a non-significant inverse association in Spain. Compared with having no sleep problems, having three sleep problems was associated with 88% greater odds of COVID-19. Reporting burnout 'every day' was associated with greater odds of COVID-19 (OR: 2.60, 95% CI 1.57 to 4.31, p trend across categories=0.001), longer duration (OR: 2.98, 95% CI 1.10 to 8.05, p trend=0.02) and severity (OR: 3.26, 95% CI 1.25 to 8.48, p trend=0.02) compared with reporting no burnout. These associations remained significant after adjusting for frequency of COVID-19 exposures. Conclusions In six countries, longer sleep duration was associated with lower odds of COVID-19, but the association with daytime nap may not be consistent across countries. Greater sleep problems and high level of burnout were robustly associated with greater odds of COVID-19. Sleep and burnout may be risk factors for COVID-19 in high-risk HCWs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunju Kim
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sheila Hegde
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Eric Luong
- Department of Cardiology, Schmidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Susan Cheng
- Department of Cardiology, Schmidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Casey M Rebholz
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sara B Seidelmann
- Department of Medicine, Stamford Hospital, Stamford, Connecticut, USA.,Department of Medicine, Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
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Aljadeed R, AlRuthia Y, Balkhi B, Sales I, Alwhaibi M, Almohammed O, Alotaibi AJ, Alrumaih AM, Asiri Y. The Impact of COVID-19 on Essential Medicines and Personal Protective Equipment Availability and Prices in Saudi Arabia. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:290. [PMID: 33800012 PMCID: PMC8001971 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9030290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
This was a questionnaire-based cross-sectional study that explored the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the availability of essential medicine and personal protective equipment (PPE) in Saudi Arabia. Purposive sampling technique was used to recruit individuals working in the supply chain departments in different healthcare sectors in Saudi Arabia. One hundred and three pharmaceutical and medical supply chain employees participated in the study. Most of the participants (58.3%) were aged ≥35 years, male (65%), and pharmacists (92.2%). The majority of participants had at least two years of experience in supply chain (77.6%), worked in public hospitals (95.15%), and were mostly working at healthcare institutions located in Riyadh province (59.2%). Approximately 51% of the participants reported shortages of 10 or more essential drugs. Tocilizumab, hydroxychloroquine, lopinavir/ritonavir, ribavirin, dexamethasone, enoxaparin, interferon beta-1b, cisatracurium besylate, prednisolone, hydrocortisone, methimazole, and methylprednisolone were reported to be in shortage by at least 8% of the participants. Almost 70% of the participants reported that the pandemic did not significantly impact the prices of prescription drugs in shortage (e.g., ≥25%). Moreover, about 70% of the participants reported direct purchasing or procurement of drugs in shortage. Surgical masks, face shields, medical gowns, and N95 respirators were reported to be in short supply by 33% or more of the participants. Approximately 53% of the participants reported the prices of PPE in shortage had seen an increase by at least 25% during the pandemic. Although the COVID-19 pandemic has caused a significant disruption in the global pharmaceutical supply chain, its impact was largely manageable in Saudi healthcare institutions. This can be attributable to multiple reasons such as the effective exchange programs between hospitals and the drastic increase in public healthcare spending to ameliorate the negative impact of the pandemic on the healthcare sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana Aljadeed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (R.A.); (B.B.); (I.S.); (M.A.); (O.A.); (Y.A.)
| | - Yazed AlRuthia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (R.A.); (B.B.); (I.S.); (M.A.); (O.A.); (Y.A.)
- Pharmacoeconomics Research Unit, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bander Balkhi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (R.A.); (B.B.); (I.S.); (M.A.); (O.A.); (Y.A.)
- Pharmacoeconomics Research Unit, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ibrahim Sales
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (R.A.); (B.B.); (I.S.); (M.A.); (O.A.); (Y.A.)
| | - Monira Alwhaibi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (R.A.); (B.B.); (I.S.); (M.A.); (O.A.); (Y.A.)
| | - Omar Almohammed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (R.A.); (B.B.); (I.S.); (M.A.); (O.A.); (Y.A.)
| | - Abdulaziz J. Alotaibi
- Saudi Medical Supply Chain Assembly, Saudi Pharmaceutical Society, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Ali M. Alrumaih
- Pharmaceutical Care Department, Medical Services for Armed Forces, Ministry of Defense, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Yousif Asiri
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (R.A.); (B.B.); (I.S.); (M.A.); (O.A.); (Y.A.)
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