Use of non-face-to-face modalities for emergency department screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (ED-SBIRT) for high-risk alcohol use: A scoping review.

Background: The purpose of this review was to examine and chart the "scope" of strategies reported in ED-SBIRT (emergency department-based screening, brief intervention and referral to treatment) studies that employ non-face-to-face (nFtF) modalities for high-risk alcohol use (i.e., risk for alcohol-related injury, medical condition, use disorder) and to identify research gaps in the scientific literature. Methods: The scoping review population included study participants with high-risk alcohol use patterns as well as study participants targeted for primary public health prevention (e.g., adolescent ED patients). Core concepts included SBIRT components among intervention studies that incorporated some form of nFtF modality (e.g., computer-assisted brief intervention). The context encompassed ED-based studies or trauma center studies, regardless of geographic location. After screening a total of 1526 unique references, reviewers independently assessed 58 full-text articles for eligibility. Results: A total of 30 full-text articles were included. Articles covered a period of 14 years (2003-2016) and 19 journal titles. Authors reported the use of a wide range of nFtF modalities across all 3 ED-SBIRT components: "screening" (e.g., computer tablet screening), "brief intervention" (e.g., text message-based brief interventions), and "referral to treatment" (e.g., computer-generated feedback with information about alcohol treatment services). The most frequently used nFtF modality was computerized screening and/or baseline assessment. The main results were mixed with respect to showing evidence of ED-SBIRT intervention effects. Conclusions: There is an opportunity for substance use disorder researchers to explore the specific needs of several populations (e.g., ED patients with co-occurring problems such as substance use disorder and violence victimization) and on several methodological issues (e.g., ED-SBIRT theory of change). Substance use disorder researchers should take the lead on establishing guidelines for the reporting of ED-SBIRT studies-including categorization schemes for various nFtF modalities. This would facilitate both secondary research (e.g., meta-analyses) and primary research design.

Systematic review on sleep disorders and obstetric outcomes: scope of current knowledge.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the current state of knowledge regarding sleep disorders and their relationship to obstetric outcomes. STUDY DESIGN: A systematic literature review of the previous two decades (1991 to 2010) was conducted. The exposure was sleep disorders during pregnancy, and the outcomes of interest were feto-infant morbidity and maternal complications. RESULTS: Sleep apnea, snoring, and sleep quantity/duration were identified as the most frequently examined sleep disorders among pregnant women. Although our review found that studies examining the impact of sleep disorders on feto-infant outcomes were lacking, previous research indicates that such disorders may enhance the risk of preterm birth. Additionally, the current body of evidence suggests that sleep disorders adversely impact maternal health, increasing the likelihood of preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes. CONCLUSION: Existing research points to the potentially harmful effects of sleep disorders on obstetric outcomes. The limited research in this arena highlights the need for further studies regarding the nature and strength of this relationship. Given the multiple dimensions of sleep and pregnancy, multivariate research approaches that incorporate biological and psychosocial factors are warranted.

The interrelationship between food security, climate change, and gender-based violence: A scoping review with system dynamics modeling.

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a global public health and human rights problem that is exacerbated by social and environmental stressors for a multitude of interpersonal, cultural, and economic reasons. Through sudden disruptions in the microclimate of a region, climate shocks often have a negative impact on food security, which correlates with increases in GBV. Associations between the various combinations of GBV, climate change, and food insecurity have been documented in the growing international literature, but questions remain about these associations that require further clarification. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 provides insight through a real time demonstration into these interactions. This review of the global literature examines the interplay between GBV, climate change, and food insecurity-including recent literature regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. This review covers original research studies employing both quantitative and qualitative methodology, those that conducted secondary analyses of existing data sources and perspective pieces derived from observed evidence. An additional analytic layer of system dynamics modeling allowed for the integration of findings from the scoping review and discovery of additional insights into the interplay between disasters, food insecurity, and GBV. Findings from this review suggest that the development and adaptation of evidence-based, focused interventions and policies to reduce the effects of climate shocks and bolster food security may ultimately decrease GBV prevalence and impact.

Use of ultrasound guidance improves central venous catheter insertion success rates among junior residents.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to determine whether junior residents had higher rates of first cannulation and overall success at central venous catheter insertions with the use of ultrasound (US) guidance compared to the landmark technique. METHODS: We conducted a secondary analysis of data from a prospective randomized controlled study of junior residents from January 2007 through September 2008, which assessed the impact of simulation training on central venous catheter insertion success rates. Blinded independent raters observed in-hospital central venous catheter insertions using a procedural checklist. Success at first cannulation and successful insertion were the primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes included rates of technical errors and mechanical complications. RESULTS: Independent raters observed 480 central venous catheter insertions by 115 residents. Successful first cannulation occurred in 27% of landmark compared to 49% of dynamic US-guided (P < .01), and 50% of static US-guided (P = .01) cannulations. Insertion success occurred for 55% of landmark compared to 80% of dynamic US-guided (P < .01) and 80% of static US-guided (P < .01) cannulations. Dynamic US guidance was associated with increased odds of first cannulation success compared to the landmark technique (odds ratio [OR], 2.24; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.37-3.67) and successful insertion (OR, 3.80; 95% CI, 2.34-6.19). Static US guidance was associated with increased odds of first cannulation success compared to the landmark technique (OR, 2.59; 95% CI, 1.25-5.39) and successful insertion (OR, 3.48; 95% CI, 1.54-7.87). The results were independent of central venous catheter insertion training, patient comorbidities, and resident specialties. There was no difference related to mechanical complications between the procedures. CONCLUSIONS: Dynamic and static US guidance during central venous catheter insertion was associated with improved in-hospital first cannulation rates and overall success rates of insertions by junior residents.

Impact of prior bariatric surgery on maternal and fetal outcomes among obese and non-obese mothers.

PURPOSE: To assess the association between bariatric surgery and pregnancy-related outcomes among obese and non-obese women in the state of Florida. METHODS: We conducted a population-based, retrospective cohort analysis using vital records and hospital discharge data in Florida during 2004-2007. Women were categorized based on prior bariatric surgery and pre-pregnancy obesity status. Maternal complications (i.e., anemia, pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, chronic hypertension, endocrine disorders, cesarean section, prolonged hospital stay) and fetal morbidities [macrosomia, preterm birth, small for gestational age (SGA)] were the outcomes of interest. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were computed. RESULTS: Mothers with a prior history of bariatric surgery, regardless of obesity status, were more likely to have anemia, chronic hypertension, endocrine disorders, and SGA infants. Classification based on prior history of bariatric surgery and obesity status showed that non-obese mothers with prior bariatric surgery were more likely to have anemia, chronic hypertension, endocrine disorders, and SGA infants, whereas obese mothers without prior bariatric surgery were at greater risk of having gestational diabetes, chronic hypertension, macrosomic infants (AOR = 1.69, 95% CI = 1.65-1.73), and prolonged hospital stay as compared to non-obese mother without prior bariatric surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Although prior bariatric surgery is associated with multiple negative maternal and fetal outcomes, it is protective against infant macrosomia in obese mothers. Our findings support the need for preconception/interconception services tailored for former bariatric surgery patients to improve maternal and feto-infant health outcomes.

A practical approach to public health surveillance of violent deaths related to intimate partner relationships.

OBJECTIVES: Articles describing the epidemiology of intimate partner homicide (IPH) have often been positioned as one-time research projects utilizing a single data source for case identification. However, researchers without access to centralized repositories for data pertinent to IPH can ascertain cases by using multiple extant data sources. The authors describe a surveillance system that can serve as a model for state health departments and others seeking to quantify and characterize violent deaths related to intimate partner relationships on an ongoing basis. METHODS: Retrospective surveillance was conducted to identify and characterize deaths related to intimate partnerships by linking the following data sources: death certificates, newspaper articles, law enforcement reports, and medical examiners' records. RESULTS: The authors identified at least 34% more IPHs using multiple data sources than would have been recognized solely using Supplementary Homicide Reports--the most frequently cited data source for IPH case ascertainment--and 22% more cases than newspaper data alone would have allowed for. CONCLUSIONS: While it was discovered that at least 181 IPHs--and at least 128 other deaths related to intimate partnerships--occurred in Michigan from 1999-2001, this frequency of occurrences is probably conservative. This limitation is due, in part, to the researchers not having access to information from all possible data source contributors. However, in the absence of statewide data systems, the authors demonstrate the utility of using multiple data sources for violent death surveillance to address incomplete case ascertainment.

The Prevalence and Characteristics of Emergency Medicine Patient Use of New Media.

BACKGROUND: Little is known about "new media" use, defined as media content created or consumed on demand on an electronic device, by patients in emergency department (ED) settings. The application of this technology has the potential to enhance health care beyond the index visit. OBJECTIVE: The objectives are to determine the prevalence and characteristics of ED patients' use of new media and to then define and identify the potential of new media to transcend health care barriers and improve the public's health. METHODS: Face-to-face, cross-sectional surveys in Spanish and English were given to 5,994 patients who were sequentially enrolled from July 12 to August 30, 2012. Data were collected from across a Southern Connecticut health care system's 3 high-volume EDs for 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for 6 weeks. The EDs were part of an urban academic teaching hospital, an urban community hospital, and an academic affiliate hospital. RESULTS: A total of 5,994 (89% response rate) ED patients reported identical ownership of cell phones (85%, P<.001) and smartphones (51%, P<.001) that were used for calling (99%, P<.001). The older the patient, however, the less likely it was that the patient used the phone for texting (96% vs 16%, P<.001). Income was positively associated with smartphone ownership (P<.001) and the use of health apps (P>.05) and personal health records (P<.001). Ownership of iPhones compared to Android phones were similar (44% vs 45%, P<.05). Race and ethnicity played a significant role in texting and smartphone ownership, with Hispanics reporting the highest rates of 79% and 56%, respectively, followed by black non-Hispanics at 77% and 54%, respectively, and white non-Hispanics at 65% and 42%, respectively (P<.05). CONCLUSIONS: There is a critical mass of ED patients who use new media. Older persons are less comfortable texting and using smartphone apps. Income status has a positive relationship with smartphone ownership and use of smartphone apps. Regardless of income, however, texting and ownership of smartphones was highest for Latinos and black non-Latinos. These findings have implications for expanding health care beyond the ED visit through the use of cell phones, smartphones, texting, the Internet, and health care apps to improve the health of the public.

Stillbirth as a risk factor for subsequent infant mortality.

BACKGROUND: Infant mortality is an important indicator of the health and wellness of a society. Multiple risk factors for infant mortality have been identified and investigated; however, the influence of prior pregnancy experience on subsequent infant mortality is under-researched. AIMS: To examine the association between stillbirth in the first pregnancy and risk for infant mortality in the second pregnancy in a large population-based dataset. STUDY DESIGN: Population-based, retrospective cohort study SUBJECTS: Missouri maternally linked cohort data files were utilized from 1989 through 2005. Analyses were restricted to women who had two singleton pregnancies during the study period. OUTCOME MEASURES: The exposure was stillbirth in the first pregnancy, while the primary outcome was infant mortality in the second pregnancy. RESULTS: Women who experienced stillbirth in their first pregnancy were more likely to be of advanced age, black, and obese and had higher rates of pregnancy-related complications (p<0.01). Previous stillbirth was associated with an elevated risk for subsequent infant mortality (AHR=2.51, 95% CI: 1.73-3.65) and neonatal mortality (AHR=3.04, 95% CI: 1.99-4.65), after adjustment for socio-demographic variables and pregnancy complications. Risk estimates for mortality in the second pregnancy were most profound among black mothers with a history of stillbirth in the first pregnancy [risk for infant mortality: (AHR=2.68, 95% CI: 1.41-5.09) and neonatal death: (AHR=4.25, 95% CI: 2.34-7.60)]. CONCLUSIONS: Women with prior stillbirth bear elevated risks for subsequent infant mortality. Women's previous childbearing experiences could serve as important criteria in determining appropriate interconception strategies to improve subsequent feto-infant health and survival.

Intimate partner violence against women: findings from one state's ED surveillance system.

INTRODUCTION: Victims of intimate partner violence against women (IPVAW) often come into contact with various health care professionals, including emergency nurses. Michigan has implemented an ED surveillance system to monitor IPVAW in the state. METHODS: Twenty-three emergency departments participate in the Michigan Intimate Partner Violence Surveillance System. Female assault and maltreatment victims are identified using International Classification of Diseases Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) diagnostic and E codes (External Cause of Injury/Adverse Effects codes). For a 2-year period (1999-2000), patients' charts were reviewed, usually by an emergency nurse, to identify IPVAW victims. RESULTS: A total of 3111 female assault and maltreatment victims were identified. Of the 2926 incidents for which physical and/or sexual violence was confirmed by chart review, 1136 (38.8% [95% confidence interval: 37.1% to 40.6%]) involved IPVAW. DISCUSSION: A hospital ED surveillance system revealed that more than a third of female assault and maltreatment incidents were attributable to intimate partner violence, with a considerable proportion being young women abused by an ex-boyfriend. Surveillance also identified a need for improved documentation of female assault and maltreatment in ED records. We realized the benefits of using a public health surveillance process to monitor IPVAW incidence, identify high-risk groups, and reduce research costs.

Impact of the thimerosal controversy on hepatitis B vaccine coverage of infants born to women of unknown hepatitis B surface antigen status in Michigan.

OBJECTIVE: Hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for all infants, and the series may be started during the delivery admission. For infants who are born either to women who are positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) or to women whose HBsAg status is unknown, vaccination should be started within 12 hours of birth to prevent perinatal and early childhood hepatitis B virus infection. Because of concerns about mercury exposures from vaccines that contain thimerosal, the United States Public Health Service (USPHS) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommended in July 1999 that the first dose of hepatitis B vaccine be deferred until 2-6 months of age but only for infants who are born to HBsAg-negative women. To assess the impact on birth-dose vaccine coverage for infants who are born to women with unknown HBsAg status, we measured coverage before and after July 1999. METHODS: A sample of Michigan infants who were born to women whose HBsAg status was either unknown or missing were identified by reviewing newborn screening cards for infants who were born during 1) March-April 1999 (before recommendation changes [T1]); 2) July 15-September 15, 1999 (immediately after recommendation changes [T2]); and 3) March-April 2000 (6 months after resumption of pre-1999 practices were recommended [T3]). We verified maternal HBsAg screening and newborn hepatitis B vaccination by reviewing infant and maternal hospital records. RESULTS: Of 1201 infants who were born to women whose HBsAg status was indicated as unknown or missing on the newborn screening card during the 3 time periods, 216 (18%) were born to women whose status was truly unknown at the time of delivery, as determined by medical record review. During T1, 53% of these 216 infants received hepatitis B vaccine before hospital discharge, compared with 7% of infants who were born during T2 and 57% of infants who were born during T3. During T1, 19% of these infants received hepatitis B vaccine within 12 hours of birth compared with 1% of infants who were born during T2 and 14% of infants who were born during T3. CONCLUSIONS: Hepatitis B vaccine birth-dose coverage for infants who were born to women whose HBsAg status was unknown at the time of delivery was already low in Michigan before the July 1999 USPHS/AAP Joint Statement but decreased significantly during the 2 months after the USPHS/AAP Joint Statement. Abrupt changes in established vaccination recommendations for lower risk children may lead to decreased coverage among higher risk children. Increases in hepatitis B vaccine coverage at birth are necessary to reduce the risk of perinatal infection for infants who are born to women with unknown HBsAg status.