Objective Analysis of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome Differentiation of Patients With Diabetes and Prediabetes: Protocol for a Nonrandomized, Exploratory, Observational Case-Control Study Using Digitalized Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostic Tools.

BACKGROUND: Diabetes and prediabetes are diagnosed differentially by Western and Chinese medicine. While Western medicine uses objective laboratory analysis of biochemical parameters to define the severity of diabetes and prediabetes, Chinese medicine uses a comprehensive approach that integrates observation, inquiry, pulse palpation, and tongue diagnosis. The medical information collected is then categorized into different syndromes. However, traditional methods of pulse and tongue diagnoses used to determine syndrome differentiation are highly subjective and skill dependent. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to identify the gap in conventional traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) diagnostic techniques for syndrome differentiation analysis using contemporary diagnostic devices. We devised a protocol for a nonrandomized, exploratory, observational case-control study with equal allocations in 5 arms to investigate the syndrome differentiation of diabetes and prediabetes. We hypothesize that the TCM syndrome differentiation of diabetes and prediabetes in the tropical climate may differ from that defined based on the Chinese demographic. We also speculate that the high-frequency spectral energy may reflect a difference in pulse wave intensity and density between the healthy and diabetes groups. METHODS: A total of 250 eligible participants will be equally assigned to 1 of 5 arms (healthy or subhealthy, prediabetes, diabetes, prediabetes with hypertension and dyslipidemia, and diabetes with hypertension and dyslipidemia). Participants aged 21-75 years, of any sex or race, and have been diagnosed with diabetes (fasting plasma glucose [FPG] of 7 mmol/L, or 2-hour plasma glucose [2hPG] of 11.1 mmol/L) or prediabetes (impaired FPG of 6.1-6.9 mmol/L, or impaired glucose tolerance with an 2hPG of 7.8-11 mmol/L) will be included. The Health Evaluation Questionnaire, Physical Activity Questionnaire, sugar intake assessment, Constitution in Chinese Medicine Questionnaire, radial pulse diagnosis, and tongue diagnosis will be performed in a single visit. ANOVA for continuous data and chi-square tests of independence will be used for categorical data assessments, with a level of P<.05 considered significant. RESULTS: The recruitment is in progress. We anticipate that the study will conclude in June 2025. As of July 15, 2024, we have enrolled 140 individuals. CONCLUSIONS: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to use contemporary TCM diagnostic instruments to map expert and empirical knowledge of TCM to its scientific equivalents for the purpose of evaluating the syndrome differentiation of diabetes. We designed this protocol with the exploratory goal to examine objectively the syndrome differentiation of patients with diabetes and those with prediabetes using TCM diagnostic technologies. The data collected and evaluated under standardized conditions using these contemporary diagnostic devices will exhibit a higher degree of stability, hence yielding dependable and unbiased results for syndrome differentiation. Thus, our findings may potentially increase the accuracy of identification, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diabetes and prediabetes through a system of targeted treatment. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05563090; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05563090. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): DERR1-10.2196/56024.

Exploring Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia: Microbial Clues and Biomarker Insights from a Retrospective Study.

Background and Objectives: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a common complication in critically ill patients receiving mechanical ventilation. The incidence rates of VAP vary, and it poses significant challenges due to microbial resistance and the potential for adverse outcomes. This study aims to explore the microbial profile of VAP and evaluate the utility of biomarkers and illness severity scores in predicting survival. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted involving 130 patients diagnosed with VAP. Microbial analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid, as well as measurements of C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) levels, were performed. Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) scores were calculated to assess illness severity. Statistical analyses were conducted to determine correlations and associations. Results: The study revealed that Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) (50.7%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) (27.69%) were the most identified microorganisms in VAP cases. SOFA (p-value < 0.0001) and APACHE II (p-value < 0.0001) scores were effective in assessing the severity of illness and predicting mortality in VAP patients. Additionally, our investigation highlighted the prognostic potential of CRP levels (odds ratio [OR]: 0.980, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.968 to 0.992, p = 0.001). Elevated levels of CRP were associated with reduced survival probabilities in VAP patients. Conclusion: This study highlights the microbial profile of VAP and the importance of biomarkers and illness severity scores in predicting survival. Conclusions: The findings emphasize the need for appropriate management strategies to combat microbial resistance and improve outcomes in VAP patients.

Impact of Iron Profile and Vitamin D Levels on Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Sepsis and Septic Shock: A Cross-sectional Analysis at a Tertiary Care Center.

Aim and background: Sepsis is a major global health affecting millions worldwide, hence understanding its contributing factors becomes paramount. This cross-sectional study at a tertiary care center explores the relationship between iron profile, vitamin D levels, and outcomes in sepsis and septic shock patients. The primary objective was to explore the prevalence of iron profile and vitamin D parameters during early intensive care unit (ICU) admission and their association with 28-day mortality. Materials and methods: Spanning 18 months, the study enrolled adult patients meeting sepsis or septic shock criteria at the ICU. Data collection included demographic information, clinical characteristics, and blood samples for iron profile and vitamin D levels at admission. Disease severity was assessed using sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) and acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II (APACHE II) scores, and treatment was administered as per surviving sepsis-3 guidelines. Results: The research involved 142 participants, uncovering prevalent organisms such as Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Noteworthy connections to mortality were identified for factors including vasopressor support, ICU stay duration, SOFA score, and APACHE-II score. Interestingly, age, gender, and vitamin D levels showed no significant associations. However, the study did reveal a significant association between iron, ferritin, and transferrin saturation levels with increased 28-day mortality. Conclusion: Our study concluded that low Iron, elevated ferritin, and decreased transferrin saturation levels maintained associations with the outcome of interest. While no such relationship was established with vitamin D levels. These results suggest potential implications for patient management and prognosis, warranting further exploration in future research. How to cite this article: Bairwa M, Jatteppanavar B, Kant R, Singh M, Choudhury A. Impact of Iron Profile and Vitamin D Levels on Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Sepsis and Septic Shock: A Cross-sectional Analysis at a Tertiary Care Center. Indian J Crit Care Med 2024;28(6):569-574.

Characteristics of the Cerebrospinal Fluid in Septic Patients with Critical Illness Polyneuropathy - A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Background: Critical illness polyneuropathy (CIP) is a complex disease commonly occurring in septic patients which indicates a worse prognosis. Herein, we investigated the characteristics of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in septic patients with CIP. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted between Match 1, 2018, and July 1, 2022. Patients with sepsis who underwent a CSF examination and nerve electrophysiology were included. The levels of protein, glucose, lipopolysaccharide, white blood cell (WBC), interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α in CSF were measured. The fungi and bacteria in CSF were also assessed. Results: Among the 175 septic patients, 116 (66.3%) patients were diagnosed with CIP. 28-day Mortality in CIP patients was higher than that in non-CIP patients (25.0% vs. 10.2%, P = 0.02) which was confirmed by survival analysis. The results of propensity score matching analysis (PSMA) indicated a significant difference in the level of protein, WBC, IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, and TNFα present in the CSF between CIP patients and non-CIP patients. The results of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis showed that IL-1, WBC, TNFα, and their combined indicator had a good diagnostic value with an AUC > 0.8. Conclusion: The increase in the levels of WBC, IL-1, and TNFα in CSF might be an indicator of CIP in septic patients.

The Combination of Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index and Serum Procalcitonin has High Auxiliary Predictive Value for Short-Term Adverse Prognosis in Septic Shock Patients.

BACKGROUND: Septic shock is the most serious complication of sepsis, with more secure and efficient biomarkers urgently needed. Systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) and serum procalcitonin (PCT) show involvement in predicting septic shock prognosis. OBJECTIVE: Herein, we explored the clinical value of the SII-PCT combination in the short-term prognosis of septic shock patients. METHODS: Totally 200 septic shock patients were analyzed retrospectively and allocated into the survival and death groups upon 28-day in-hospital outcomes. Correlations of SII, PCT, acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II (APACHE II)/sepsis-related organ failure assessment (SOFA) scores, C-reactive protein (CRP), and serum creatinine (Scr) were analyzed using Spearman. The influencing factors of SII and serum PCT for short-term poor prognosis were analyzed using logistic multivariate regression model. The auxiliary predictive value of SII, PCT, and their combination for short-term adverse septic shock prognosis was evaluated by the receiver operating characteristic curve. Differences in the area under the curve (AUC) were compared using MedCalc. RESULTS: The death group had higher APACHE II/SOFA scores, LYM, CRP, Scr, SII, and PCT levels than the survival group. SII and PCT were positively correlated with APACHE II and SOFA scores, LYM, CRP, and Scr, and were independent risk factors influencing the adverse septic shock prognosis. The AUC of the SII-PCT combination in predicting short-term adverse septic shock prognosis was 0.893 (0.841-0.932), with 76.12% sensitivity and 87.97% specificity, with the combination showing a higher AUC than SII/PCT alone. CONCLUSIONS: The SII-PCT combination helps predict the adverse prognosis of septic shock patients.

Tempo de espera no atendimento e internação: satisfação dos usuários e a perspectiva do planejamento e avaliação em saúde / Waiting time for service and hospitalization: user satisfaction and the perspective of planning and health evaluation / Tiempo de espera de servicio y hospitalización: satisfacción del usuario y la perspectiva de la planificación y evaluación en salud

Introdução:A relevância da participação e controle social, promulgados pela Constituição Federal de 1988, garante o exercício da cidadania ao permitir que a população participe ativamente na formulação das políticas públicas de saúde. Neste contexto, surgiram as ouvidorias públicas, com o objetivo de permitir a escuta direta da população, dando protagonismo à sociedade civil.Objetivo:Elaborar um planejamento estratégico e avaliação sobre o tempo de espera por atendimento e internação em um hospital universitário. Metodologia:Trata-se de um estudo ecológico, realizado em junho de 2023 num hospital de ensino no Nordeste do Brasil. Os dados foram obtidos de relatórios da avaliação de usuários atendidos no ambulatório e internação, nos anos de 2016, 2017, 2019 e 2022.Resultados:A partir da análise dos dados foi identificado que há discrepâncias nos índices de satisfação entre os anos estudados. A ausência de detalhes nos relatórios, causa vieses nas pesquisas de satisfação, uma vez que a cada ano é variável o número de usuários pesquisados e o questionário utilizado sofre mudanças nas perguntas, sem justificativa para as alterações. O tempo de espera pelo atendimento e internação foi avaliado e considerado o que obteve piores índices de satisfação.Conclusão:Os resultados deste estudo mostraram que a pesquisa de satisfação com o usuário é uma importante ferramenta de avaliação para a gestão, contudo, há necessidade de um método mais seguro para a execução da avaliação de satisfação. Otempo de espera tem sido uma variávelquefrequentementenão tem atendido de forma satisfatória, sendo necessário identificar e corrigir as causas desse desconforto. Espera-se que este estudo possa contribuir para o fortalecimento da ouvidoria e da pesquisa de satisfação como ferramentas de gestão (AU).

Introduction:The relevance of participation and social control, promulgated by the Federal Constitution of 1988, ensures the exercise of citizenship by allowing the population to participate actively in the formulation of public health policies.In this context, public ombudsmen arise, in order to allow direct listening of the population, giving prominence to civil society.Objective:The study aims to Elaborate a strategic planning and evaluation of the waiting time for care and hospitalization in a university hospital. Methodology:This is an ecological study, carried out in June 2023 in a teaching hospital in Northeast Brazil. Data were obtained from evaluation reports of users treated at the outpatient clinic and hospitalization, in the years 2016, 2017, 2019 and 2022.Results:From the data analysis it was identified that there are discrepancies in the satisfaction rates between the years studied. The absence of methodology described in the reports causes bias in the satisfaction surveys, since each year the number of users surveyed is variable and the questionnaire used undergoes changes in the questions, without justification for the changes. The waiting time for care/hospitalization was considered the one that had the worst satisfaction rates.Conclusion:The results of this study showed that the user satisfaction survey is an important assessment tool for management, however, there is a need for a safer method for carrying out the satisfaction assessment. The waiting time has been a variable that has often not been attended satisfactorily, and it is necessary to identify and correct the causes of this discomfort. It is hoped that this study can contribute to strengthening the ombudsman and the satisfaction survey as management tools (AU).

Introducción:La relevancia de la participación y control social, promulgados por la Constitución Federal de 1988, garantiza el ejercicio de la ciudadanía al permitir que la población participe activamente en la formulación de las políticas públicas de salud.En este contexto, surgen las defensorías públicas, con el objetivo de permitir la escucha directa de la población, dando protagonismo a la sociedad civil.Objetivo:Elaborar una planificación estratégica y evaluación del tiempo de espera para atención y hospitalización en un hospital universitario.Metodología:Se trata de un estudio ecológico, realizado en junio de 2023 en un hospital universitario del Norestede Brasil. Los datos se obtuvieron de informes de evaluación de usuarios atendidos en el ambulatorio y hospitalización, en los años 2016, 2017, 2019 y 2022.Resultados:A partir del análisis de los datos fue identificado que hay discrepancias en los índices de satisfacción entre los años estudiados. La ausencia de metodología descrita en los informes, causa sesgos en las encuestas de satisfacción, una vez que cada año es variable el número de usuarios investigados yel cuestionario utilizado sufre cambios en las preguntas, sin justificación para las alteraciones. El tiempo de espera por la atención/internación fue considerado el que tuvo los peores índices de satisfacción.Conclusión:Los resultados de este estudio mostraron que la encuesta de satisfacción del usuario es una herramienta de evaluación importante para la gestión, sin embargo, existe la necesidad de un método más seguro para llevar a cabo la evaluación de la satisfacción. El tiempo de espera ha sido una variable que muchas veces no ha sido atendida satisfactoriamente, siendo necesario identificar y corregir las causas de este malestar. Se espera que este estudio pueda contribuir a fortalecer la Defensoría del Pueblo y la encuesta de satisfacción como herramientas de gestión (AU).

Interleukin-6 in Sepsis-Promising but Yet to Be Proven.

How to cite this article: Sinha S. Interleukin-6 in Sepsis-Promising but Yet to Be Proven. Indian J Crit Care Med 2024;28(7):629-631.

Development of a brief core set for knee dysfunction based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health: assessing construct validity and measurement potential.

BACKGROUND: The comprehensive core set for knee dysfunction was developed to classify the functioning of people with any knee dysfunction. To be used as a clinical instrument to measure the functioning of people with knee dysfunction, the construct validity of the core set still needs to be assessed. The purpose of this study was to analyze the construct validity of the comprehensive core set for knee dysfunction as an instrument to measure functioning. METHODS: A cross-sectional study with 200 participants with knee dysfunction with or without clinical diagnosis of knee pathology, with or without complaint of pain, with or without instability, and/or with or without knee movement restriction of any type. Participants were assessed using the comprehensive core set for knee dysfunction with 25 categories, the subjective form from the International Knee Documentation Committee scale, and measures of self-perceived general health and functioning. The construct validity of the core set was assessed by Rasch analysis, and the external construct validity was assessed by correlation between the score of the brief core set for knee dysfunction with the subjective form from the International Knee Documentation Committee scale, and scores of self-perception of health and functioning. RESULTS: Twelve categories were consistent with a unidimensional construct, with no difference in the response pattern for age, sex, educational level, and time of complaint. These categories were included in the brief core set for knee dysfunction. The mean score of the brief core set was 37 ± 21 points, a value classified as moderate impairment regarding functioning. Correlations with the subjective form from the International Knee Documentation Committee scale and scores of self-perception were adequate (p < 0.01; r > 0.5). CONCLUSION: The brief core set for knee dysfunction, a set with 12 categories, can be used as a clinical instrument to measure and score the functioning of people with knee dysfunction, aged between 18 and 89 years, with adequate construct validity.

mNUTRIC Score in ICU Mortality Prediction: An Emerging Frontier or Yet Another Transient Trend?

How to cite this article: Arunachala S, Kumar J. mNUTRIC Score in ICU Mortality Prediction: An Emerging Frontier or Yet Another Transient Trend? Indian J Crit Care Med 2024;28(5):422-423.

Establishing a river health evaluation index system for seven rivers in Jiamusi City of China.

The Jiamusi section of the Songhua River is one of the first 17 model river construction sections in China. The implementation of river health assessments can determine the health dynamics of rivers and test the management's effectiveness. Targeting seven rivers, this study conducted river zoning and monitoring point deployment to conduct sufficient field research and monitoring. The authors selected hydrological and water resources, physical structure, water quality, aquatic life, social service functions, and management as guideline layers and 15 indicator layers. Subsequently, the authors established an evaluation index system to evaluate and analyze the ecological status and social service status of each river. The results showed that the Yindamu, Alingda, and Gejie rivers scored well as healthy rivers, with health evaluation scores of 78.98, 76.06, and 75.83, respectively. The Wangsanwu, Lujiagang, and Lingdangmai rivers are generally sub-healthy rivers with scores of 71.55, 67.97, and 60.7, respectively. The Yinggetu River has a score of 54.52 and is therefore assessed as unhealthy. Based on the scientific evaluation index method, this study analyses the current river health state in Jiamusi City to provide the basis for the evaluation of the river chief's work and future river management.

Incorporation, adaptation and rejection of obstetric practices during the implementation of the "Adequate Childbirth Program" in Brazilian private hospitals: a qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: The "Adequate Childbirth Program" (PPA) is a quality improvement project that aims to reduce the high rates of unnecessary cesarean section in Brazilian private hospitals. This study aimed to analyze labor and childbirth care practices after the first phase of PPA implementation. METHOD: This study uses a qualitative approach. Eight hospitals were selected. At each hospital, during the period of 5 (five) days, from July to October 2017, the research team conducted face to face interviews with doctors (n = 21) and nurses (n = 28), using semi-structured scripts. For the selection of professionals, the Snowball technique was used. The interviews were transcribed, and the data submitted to Thematic Content Analysis, using the MaxQda software. RESULTS: The three analytical dimensions of the process of change in the care model: (1) Incorporation of care practices: understood as the practices that have been included since PPA implementation; (2) Adaptation of care practices: understood as practices carried out prior to PPA implementation, but which underwent modifications with the implementation of the project; (3) Rejection of care practices: understood as those practices that were abandoned or questioned whether or not they should be carried out by hospital professionals. CONCLUSIONS: After the PPA, changes were made in hospitals and in the way, women were treated. Birth planning, prenatal hospital visits led by experts (for expecting mothers and their families), diet during labor, pharmacological analgesia for vaginal delivery, skin-to-skin contact, and breastfeeding in the first hour of life are all included. To better monitor labor and vaginal birth and to reduce CS without a clinical justification, hospitals adjusted their present practices. Finally, the professionals rejected the Kristeller maneuver since research has demonstrated that using it's harmful.

Brazil has high Cesarean Section (CS) rates, with rates far from the ideal recommended by the World Health Organization and a model of care that does not favor women's autonomy and empowerment. In 2015, a quality improvement project, called "Projeto Parto Adequado" (PPA), was implemented in Brazilian private hospitals to reduce unnecessary cesarean section, in addition to encouraging the process of natural and safe childbirth. One of the components of this project was to reorganize the model of care in hospitals to prepare professionals for humanized and safe care. The data were collected in 8 hospitals with interviews with 49 professionals, approximately two years after the beginning of the project in the hospitals. There were changes in the hospital routine and in the care of women after the project. The professionals incorporated practices such as skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding; diet during labor; non-invasive care technologies, especially to relieve pain during labor; birth plan; pregnancy courses with guided tours in hospitals (for pregnant women and family); and analgesia for vaginal labor. There was adaptation of existing practices in hospitals to reduce CS that had no clinical indication; better monitoring of labor, favoring vaginal delivery. And finally, the professionals rejected the practice that presses the uterine fundus, for not having shown efficacy in recent studies. We can conclude that the hospitals that participated in this study have made an effort to change their obstetric model. However, specific aspects of each hospital, the organization of the health system in Brazil, and the incentive of the local administration influenced the implementation of these changes by professionals in practice.

[Level and health evaluation of rare earth elements in human blood and hair in the mining areas in Northwest Hubei].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the content of rare earth elements(REs)in blood and hair of residents in a RE mining area in Northwest Hubei, and evaluate the impact of REs on the health status of local residents. METHODS: A total of 191 residents from the core area of RE mining areas and 186 residents from non RE mining areas, aged 20-69, were selected. The content of REs in the blood and hair of the survey subjects was measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and compared with existing literature values. At the same time, blood tests and questionnaire surveys will be conducted on the health status of residents to examine whether human RE enrichment can lead to endemic diseases. RESULTS: The average total content of REs in the blood of residents in the mining area was 60.22 ng/mL, which was 3.35 times that of the control area; The average total content of REs in hair was 1197.91 ng/g, which was 6.32 times higher than the control area. As age increasing, the abundance of REs in the blood and hair of both men and women in mining areas increased. The proportion of Yttrium and Scandium in the blood and hair were much higher than that in the soil. Compared to hair, Yttrium and Scandium were more easily enriched in the blood. There was no significant difference in the probability of fatty liver, hepatitis B, hypoglycemia, hypotension, hypertension and heart disease and the average life span between residents in RE mining areas and those in the control area. CONCLUSION: The high daily average dietary intake of REs in residents leads to a relatively large accumulation of REs in human blood and hair, but no significant and substantial human health damage has been found at present.

Fatores Associados aos Custos do Tratamento no Primeiro Ano após Implantes Iniciais ou Trocas de Geradores de Pulsos de Marca-passos Cardíacos / Factors Associated with the Treatment Costs within the First Year after Pacemaker Implantation or Pulse Generator Replacement

Resumo Fundamento O uso de marca-passos cardíacos artificiais tem crescido constantemente, acompanhando o envelhecimento populacional. Objetivos Determinar as taxas de readmissões hospitalares e complicações após implante de marca-passo ou troca de gerador de pulsos e avaliar o impacto desses eventos nos custos anuais do tratamento sob a perspectiva do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS). Métodos Registro prospectivo, com dados derivados da prática clínica assistencial, coletados na hospitalização índice e durante os primeiros 12 meses após o procedimento cirúrgico. O custo da hospitalização índice, do procedimento e do seguimento clínico foram estimados de acordo com os valores reembolsados pelo SUS e analisados ao nível do paciente. Modelos lineares generalizados foram utilizados para estudar fatores associados ao custo total anual do tratamento, adotando-se um nível de significância de 5%. Resultados No total, 1.223 pacientes consecutivos foram submetidos a implante inicial (n= 634) ou troca do gerador de pulsos (n= 589). Foram observados 70 episódios de complicação em 63 pacientes (5,1%). A incidência de readmissões hospitalares em um ano foi de 16,4% (IC 95% 13,7% - 19,6%) após implantes iniciais e 10,6% (IC 95% 8,3% - 13,4%) após trocas de geradores. Doença renal crônica, histórico de acidente vascular encefálico, tempo de permanência hospitalar, necessidade de cuidados intensivos pós-operatórios, complicações e readmissões hospitalares mostraram um impacto significativo sobre o custo anual total do tratamento. Conclusões Os resultados confirmam a influência da idade, comorbidades, complicações pós-operatórias e readmissões hospitalares como fatores associados ao incremento do custo total anual do tratamento de pacientes com marca-passo.

Abstract Background The use of artificial cardiac pacemakers has grown steadily in line with the aging population. Objectives To determine the rates of hospital readmissions and complications after pacemaker implantation or pulse generator replacement and to assess the impact of these events on annual treatment costs from the perspective of the Unified Health System (SUS). Methods A prospective registry, with data derived from clinical practice, collected during index hospitalization and during the first 12 months after the surgical procedure. The cost of index hospitalization, the procedure, and clinical follow-up were estimated according to the values reimbursed by SUS and analyzed at the patient level. Generalized linear models were used to study factors associated with the total annual treatment cost, adopting a significance level of 5%. Results A total of 1,223 consecutive patients underwent initial implantation (n=634) or pulse generator replacement (n=589). Seventy episodes of complication were observed in 63 patients (5.1%). The incidence of hospital readmissions within one year was 16.4% (95% CI 13.7% - 19.6%) after initial implants and 10.6% (95% CI 8.3% - 13.4%) after generator replacements. Chronic kidney disease, history of stroke, length of hospital stays, need for postoperative intensive care, complications, and hospital readmissions showed a significant impact on the total annual treatment cost. Conclusions The results confirm the influence of age, comorbidities, postoperative complications, and hospital readmissions as factors associated with increased total annual treatment cost for patients with pacemakers.

Comparison of Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II and American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) scoring system in predicting postoperative mortality in patients undergoing emergency laparotomy: A retrospective study.

Background and Aims: There is paucity of studies on preoperative risk assessment tools in patients undergoing emergency surgery. The present study evaluated the performance of the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II, American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) surgical risk calculator and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status (PS) classification system in patients undergoing emergency exploratory laparotomy. Methods: This retrospective study included 60 adult patients who underwent emergency exploratory laparotomy for perforation peritonitis. The clinical details, ASA PS classification, laboratory investigations and postoperative course of patients were retrieved from their medical records. Based on these details, APACHE II and ACS-NSQIP were calculated for the patients. The study's primary outcome was the accuracy of the preoperative APACHE II, ACS-NSQIP risk calculator and ASA PS class in predicting the postoperative 30-day mortality of patients. Results: The area under the curve (AUC) of APACHE II, ACS-NSQIP score, and ASA PS classification for mortality 30 days after surgery was 0.737, 0.694 and 0.601, respectively. The P value for the Hosmer-Lemeshow (H-L) test of scoring systems was 0.05, 0.25 and 0.05, respectively. AUC for postoperative complications was 0.799 for APACHE II, 0.683 for ACS-NSQIP and 0.601 for ASA PS classification. H-L test of these scoring systems for complications after surgery revealed P values of 0.62, 0.36 and 0.53, respectively. Conclusion: Compared to the ACS-NSQIP and ASA PS classification system, the APACHE II score has a better discriminative ability for postoperative complications and mortality in adult patients undergoing emergency exploratory laparotomy.

Temporal Trends in Mortality of Critically Ill Patients with Sepsis in the United Kingdom, 1988-2019.

Rationale: Sepsis is a frequent cause of ICU admission and mortality. Objectives: To evaluate temporal trends in the presentation and outcomes of patients admitted to the ICU with sepsis and to assess the contribution of changing case mix to outcomes. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients admitted to 261 ICUs in the United Kingdom during 1988-1990 and 1996-2019 with nonsurgical sepsis. Measurements and Main Results: A total of 426,812 patients met study inclusion criteria. The patients had a median (interquartile range) age of 66 (53-75) years, and 55.6% were male. The most common sites of infection were respiratory (60.9%), genitourinary (11.5%), and gastrointestinal (10.3%). Compared with patients in 1988-1990, patients in 2017-2019 were older (median age, 66 vs. 63 yr), were less acutely ill (median Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II acute physiology score, 14 vs. 20), and more often had genitourinary sepsis (13.4% vs. 2.0%). Hospital mortality decreased from 54.6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 51.0-58.1%) in 1988-1990 to 32.4% (95% CI, 32.1-32.7%) in 2017-2019, with an adjusted odds ratio of 0.64 (95% CI, 0.54-0.75). The adjusted absolute hospital mortality reduction from 1988-1990 to 2017-2019 was 8.8% (95% CI, 5.6-12.1). Thus, of the observed 22.2-percentage point reduction in hospital mortality, 13.4 percentage points (60% of total reduction) were explained by case mix changes, whereas 8.8 percentage points (40% of total reduction) were not explained by measured factors and may be a result of improvements in ICU management. Conclusions: Over a 30-year period, mortality for ICU admissions with sepsis decreased substantially. Although changes in case mix accounted for the majority of observed mortality reduction, there was an 8.8-percentage point reduction in mortality not explained by case mix.

Building Program Evaluation Capacity Through an Online Training for Graduate Students at Schools and Programs of Public Health.

OBJECTIVES: Program evaluation is an essential function for public health professionals that is necessary to acquire funding for public health programs and support evidenced-based practice, but coverage of program evaluation principles and methodology within the master of public health (MPH) curriculum is inconsistent and may not adequately prepare students to conduct program evaluation activities postgraduation, especially on culturally responsive program evaluation. We examined the effectiveness of an online training course on program evaluation topics. METHODS: In July 2021, we recruited current and recently graduated MPH students from accredited US universities to measure the effectiveness of a 1-hour online training course in program evaluation. We distributed pre- and postsurveys to eligible participants. We assessed program evaluation skills on a 4-point Likert scale to determine improvements in knowledge (from 4 = extremely knowledgeable to 1 = not knowledgeable), attitudes (from 4 = strongly agree to 1 = strongly disagree), and self-efficacy (from 4 = strongly agree to 1 = strongly disagree). RESULTS: Among 80 MPH students who completed the survey, respondents indicated mean (SD) increases from presurvey to postsurvey in knowledge (from 2.13 [0.66] to 3.24 [0.54]) and attitudes (from 3.61 [0.51] to 3.84 [0.30]) toward program evaluation and in self-efficacy in conducting program evaluation (from 2.92 [0.71] to 3.44 [0.52]). CONCLUSION: The course may be an effective approach for training public health professionals about program evaluation. Our results provide a basis for revising the way program evaluation is taught and practical recommendations for integrating program evaluation competencies within public health curricula, such as by incorporating a self-paced training course for continuing education.

Desfechos das inserções de dispositivos intrauterinos por enfermeiros em instituições de saúde: revisão integrativa / Outcomes of intrauterine device insertions by nurses in healthcare institutions: an integrative review

RESUMO Objetivo identificar quais os desfechos das inserções de dispositivos intrauterinos por enfermeiros em instituições de saúde. Métodos revisão integrativa realizada em oito bases de dados, com auxílio de um gerenciador de referências bibliográficas, utilizando o modelo de JBI para a análise do nível de evidência. Os dados foram organizados, categorizados e discutidos por meio de síntese descritiva. Resultados 10 estudos compuseram a amostra final, sendo dois apenas com enfermeiros e os demais com enfermeiros e médicos. Os principais desfechos avaliados foram perfuração e expulsão, sem diferenças significativas entre os profissionais que realizaram o procedimento. As taxas de sucesso, continuidade e satisfação foram semelhantes entre médicos e enfermeiros. Conclusão os desfechos das inserções de dispositivos intrauterinos por enfermeiros em instituições de saúde são similares aos realizados por médicos, com ampliação do acesso, sem aumentar as complicações relacionadas a esse método contraceptivo, contribuindo para a integralidade da assistência no campo do planejamento reprodutivo. Contribuições para a prática: os achados podem contribuir para o enfrentamento de barreiras pelos enfermeiros, servindo como subsídio para diretrizes e políticas de saúde que incentivem a inserção do dispositivo intrauterino por estes profissionais, principalmente, em contextos onde esta prática ainda não ocorre.

ABSTRACT Objective to identify the outcomes of intrauterine device insertions by nurses in healthcare institutions. Methods integrative review carried out in eight databases, with the help of a bibliographic reference manager, using the JBI model for analyzing the evidence level. The data was organized, categorized and discussed using descriptive summaries. Results 10 studies made up the final sample, two with nurses only and the others with nurses and physicians. The main outcomes assessed were perforation and expulsion, with no significant differences between the professionals who performed the procedure. Success rates, continuity and satisfaction were similar between physicians and nurses. Conclusion the outcomes of intrauterine device insertions by nurses in health institutions are similar to those carried out by physicians, with increased access, without increasing the complications related to this contraceptive method, contributing to comprehensive care in the field of reproductive planning. Contributions to practice: the findings could help nurses to tackle barriers and serve as a basis for guidelines and health policies that encourage the insertion of the intrauterine device by these professionals, especially in contexts where this practice does not yet take place.

Characteristics of house calls in Brazil: analysis of PMAQ-AB external evaluation cycles / Características da visita domiciliar no Brasil: análise de ciclos de avaliação externa do PMAQ-AB

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze characteristics of the home visit (HV) in Brazil, 2012 and 2017. Methods: Ecological study, with panel data whose units of analysis were the Primary Health Care teams in Brazil, participants of the 1st and 3rd cycles of the Program to Improve Access and Quality of Primary Care of the Unified Health System. Descriptive, inferential and spatial analyzes (alpha=5%) were performed. Results: There was an increase in the proportion of teams that carried out home visits at a frequency defined based on risk and vulnerability analysis and actively searched for people with respiratory symptoms and women with delayed and altered cytopathological examination. In the heat maps, the Northeast, Southeast and South regions had a higher concentration of teams that carried out the HV and carried out an active search. Conclusion: The maintenance and qualification of HVs must be a priority in Brazil, since there are few countries in the world with such capillarity of health services, reaching the homes of millions of people.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar características da visita domiciliar (VD) no Brasil em 2012 e 2017. Métodos: Estudo ecológico com dados em painel cujas unidades de análise foram as equipes de saúde da Atenção Primária à Saúde no Brasil, participantes do 1º e 3º ciclos do Programa de Melhoria do Acesso e Qualidade da Atenção Básica do Sistema Único de Saúde. Foram realizadas análises descritivas, inferenciais e espaciais (alpha=5%). Resultados: Houve aumento na proporção de equipes que realizavam visita domiciliar com periodicidade definida a partir da análise de risco e vulnerabilidade e na de busca ativa de pessoas com sintomáticos respiratórios e de mulheres com exame citopatológico atrasado e alterado. Nordeste, Sudeste e Sul foram as regiões com maior concentração de equipes que realizavam a VD e faziam busca ativa. Conclusão: A manutenção e qualificação das VD deve ser uma prioridade no Brasil, uma vez que poucos são os países no mundo com tamanha capilaridade dos serviços de saúde, alcançando os domicílios de milhões de pessoas.

Construction and validation of an instrument for evaluating Lean Healthcare in healthcare institutions / Construcción y validación de un instrumento para evaluar el Lean Healthcare en instituciones de salud / Construção e validação de instrumento para avaliação do Lean Healthcare em instituições de saúde

ABSTRACT Objective: To build and validate an instrument to evaluate Lean Healthcare in healthcare institutions. Method: Methodological study conducted in three stages: 1) Instrument construction; 2) Content validity using the Delphi technique with 14 experts; and 3) Construct validation using Structural Equation Modeling with sample consisted of 113 professionals with experience in Lean Healthcare. Data collection carried out from October/2020 to January/2021 using a digital form. Data analysis performed with the SmartPLS2.0/M3 software. Results: Items were developed after an integrative review and divided into the dimensions Structure, Process and Outcome, according to Donabedian's theoretical framework. Content validation in two rounds of the Delphi technique. Final instrument, after model adjustment, containing 16 items with Cronbach's alpha of 0.77 in Structure, 0.71 in Process and 0.83 in Outcome. Conclusion: The instrument presented evidence of validity and reliability, enabling its use in healthcare institutions to evaluate Lean Healthcare.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Construir y validar un instrumento para evaluar Lean Healthcare en instituciones de salud. Método: Estudio metodológico realizado en tres etapas: 1) Construcción del instrumento; 2) Validez de contenido mediante técnica Delphi con participación de 14 expertos; 3) Validez de constructo mediante Modelado de Ecuaciones Estructurales con muestra compuesta por 113 profesionales con experiencia en Lean Healthcare. La recopilación de datos se realizó de octubre/2020 a enero/2021 mediante formulario digital. El análisis de datos se realizó con el software SmartPLS2.0/M3. Resultados: Ítems elaborados después de revisión integradora y divididos en las dimensiones Estructura, Proceso y Resultado, según referencial teórico de Donabedian. Validación de contenido en dos rondas de la técnica Delphi. Instrumento final, después del ajuste del modelo, contiene 16 ítems con alfa de Cronbach 0,77 en Estructura, 0,71 en Proceso y 0,83 en Resultado. Conclusión: El instrumento presentó evidencias de validez y confiabilidad, permitiendo uso para evaluar Lean Healthcare.

RESUMO Objetivo: Construir e validar um instrumento para avaliar o Lean Healthcare nas instituições de saúde. Método: Estudo metodológico realizado em três etapas: 1) Construção do instrumento; 2) Validade de conteúdo pela técnica Delphi com 14 especialistas; e 3) Validade de constructo por Modelagem de Equações Estruturais, em amostra de 113 profissionais com experiência no Lean Healthcare. Coleta de dados realizada de outubro/2020 a janeiro/2021 por formulário digital. Análise de dados realizadas com o software SmartPLS2.0/M3. Resultados: Itens elaborados após revisão integrativa e divididos nas dimensões Estrutura, Processo e Resultado, conforme referencial teórico de Donabedian. Validação de conteúdo em duas rodadas da técnica Delphi. Instrumento final, após ajuste do modelo, contendo 16 itens com alfa de Cronbach de 0,77 em Estrutura, 0,71 em Processo e 0,83 em Resultado. Conclusão: O instrumento apresentou evidências de validade e confiabilidade, permitindo seu uso nas instituições de saúde para avaliar o Lean Healthcare.

Modelo para avaliação da efetividade da atuação fisioterapêutica na atenção básica / Model for evaluating the effectiveness of physiotherapeutic activities in primary care

RESUMO A pesquisa objetivou elaborar um modelo para avaliação da efetividade da atuação fisioterapêutica na atenção básica. O modelo foi elaborado com base na literatura, em entrevistas com experts envolvidos na atuação fisioterapêutica na Atenção Básica à Saúde e conferência de consenso para validação com especialistas. A matriz avaliativa proposta é composta por três dimensões - ações assistenciais, de gestão e de promoção de saúde - e nove indicadores. Esse modelo proposto será posteriormente aplicado para verificar sua aplicabilidade, necessidade de ajustes e possibilidade de replicação em diferentes contextos.

ABSTRACT The research aimed to develop a model to evaluate the effectiveness of physiotherapeutic activities in primary care. The model was elaborated based on the literature, through interviews with experts involved in physiotherapeutic activities in Primary Health Care and a consensus conference for validation with specialists. The proposed evaluation matrix is composed of three dimensions - care, management and health promotion actions - and nine indicators. This proposed model will be later applied to verify its applicability, the need for adjustments and the possibility of replication in different contexts.