Inequalities in health system coverage and quality: a cross-sectional survey of four Latin American countries.

The premise of health as a human right in Latin America has been challenged by health system fragmentation, quality gaps, a growing burden of chronic disease, sociopolitical upheaval, and the COVID-19 pandemic. We characterised inequities in health system quality in Colombia, Mexico, Peru, and Uruguay. We did a cross-sectional telephone survey with up to 1250 adults in each country. We created binary outcomes in coverage, user experience, system competence, and confidence in the system and calculated the slope index of inequality by income and education. Although access to care was high, only a third of respondents reported having a high-quality source of care and 25% of those with mental health needs had those needs met. Two-thirds of adults were able to access relevant preventive care and 42% of older adults were screened for cardiovascular disease. Telehealth access, communication and autonomy in most recent visit, reasonable waiting times, and receiving preventive health checks showed inequalities favouring people with a high income. In Uruguay, inequality between government and social security services explained a substantial proportion of disparities in preventive health access. In other study countries, inequalities were also substantial within government and social security subsectors. Essential health system functions are unequal in these four Latin American countries.

A systematic review of population and patient perspectives and experiences as measured in Latin American and Caribbean surveys.

High-quality health systems must provide accessible, people-centred care to both improve health and maintain population trust in health services. Furthermore, accurate measurement of population perspectives is vital to hold health systems accountable and to inform improvement efforts. To describe the current state of such measures in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), we conducted a systematic review of facility and population-based assessments that included patient-reported experience and satisfaction measures. Five databases were searched for publications on quantitative surveys assessing healthcare quality in Spanish- or Portuguese-speaking LAC countries, focusing on the domains of processes of care and quality impacts. We included articles published since 2011 with a national sampling frame or inclusion of multiple subnational regions. We tabulated and described these articles, identifying, classifying and summarizing the items used to assess healthcare quality into the domains mentioned earlier. Of the 5584 publications reviewed, 58 articles met our inclusion criteria. Most studies were cross-sectional (95%), assessed all levels of healthcare (57%) and were secondary analyses of existing surveys (86%). The articles yielded 33 unique surveys spanning 12 LAC countries; only eight of them are regularly administered surveys. The most common quality domains assessed were satisfaction (in 33 out of 58 articles, 57%), evidence-based/effective care (34%), waiting times (33%), clear communication (33%) and ease of use (31%). Items and reported ratings varied widely among instruments used, time points and geographical settings. Assessment of patient-reported quality measures through population- and facility-based surveys is present but heterogeneous in LAC countries. Satisfaction was measured frequently, although its use in accountability or informing quality improvement is limited. Measurement of healthcare quality in LAC needs to be more systematic, regular, comprehensive and to be led collaboratively by researchers, governments and policymakers to enable comparison of results across countries and to effectively inform policy implementation.

Health, economic and social burden of tobacco in Latin America and the expected gains of fully implementing taxes, plain packaging, advertising bans and smoke-free environments control measures: a modelling study.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the tobacco-attributable burden on disease, medical costs, productivity losses and informal caregiving; and to estimate the health and economic gains that can be achieved if the main tobacco control measures (raising taxes on tobacco, plain packaging, advertising bans and smoke-free environments) are fully implemented in eight countries that encompass 80% of the Latin American population. DESIGN: Markov probabilistic microsimulation economic model of the natural history, costs and quality of life associated with the main tobacco-related diseases. Model inputs and data on labour productivity, informal caregivers' burden and interventions' effectiveness were obtained through literature review, surveys, civil registrations, vital statistics and hospital databases. Epidemiological and economic data from January to October 2020 were used to populate the model. FINDINGS: In these eight countries, smoking is responsible each year for 351 000 deaths, 2.25 million disease events, 12.2 million healthy years of life lost, US$22.8 billion in direct medical costs, US$16.2 billion in lost productivity and US$10.8 billion in caregiver costs. These economic losses represent 1.4% of countries' aggregated gross domestic products. The full implementation and enforcement of the four strategies: taxes, plain packaging, advertising bans and smoke-free environments would avert 271 000, 78 000, 71 000 and 39 000 deaths, respectively, in the next 10 years, and result in US$63.8, US$12.3, US$11.4 and US$5.7 billions in economic gains, respectively, on top of the benefits being achieved today by the current level of implementation of these measures. CONCLUSIONS: Smoking represents a substantial burden in Latin America. The full implementation of tobacco control measures could successfully avert deaths and disability, reduce healthcare spending and caregiver and productivity losses, likely resulting in large net economic benefits.

Transesophageal Echocardiographic Assessment in Patients with Severe Respiratory Distress due to COVID-19 in the Prone Position: A Feasibility Study.

Background and aim: Our aim was to assess the feasibility, safety, and utility of implementing transesophageal echocardiographic screening in patients with coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19)-related acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), receiving mechanical ventilation (MV) and in prone position (PP). Methods: Prospective observational study performed in an intensive care unit; patients 18 years, with ARDS, invasive MV, in PP were included. A total of 87 patients were included. Results: There was no need to change ventilator settings, hemodynamic support, or any difficulties with the insertion of the ultrasonographic probe. Mean duration of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) was 20 minutes. No displacement of the orotracheal tube, vomiting, or gastrointestinal bleeding was observed. Frequent complication was displacement of the nasogastric tube in 41 (47%) patients. Severe right ventricular (RV) dysfunction was detected in 21 (24%) patients and acute cor pulmonale was diagnosed in 36 (41%) patients. Conclusion: Our results show the importance of assessing RV function during the course of severe respiratory distress and the value of TEE for hemodynamic assessment in PP. How to cite this article: Sosa FA, Wehit J, Merlo P, Matarrese A, Tort B, Roberti JE, et al. Transesophageal Echocardiographic Assessment in Patients with Severe Respiratory Distress due to COVID-19 in the Prone Position: A Feasibility Study. Indian J Crit Care Med 2023;27(2):132-134.

Promoting immunization equity in Latin America and the Caribbean: Case studies, lessons learned, and their implication for COVID-19 vaccine equity.

In 2020, the World Health Organization launched the Immunization Agenda 2030: A Global Strategy to Leave No One Behind, which prioritizes high equitable immunization coverage at the national level and in all districts. Achieving high and homogenous immunization coverage, which is all the more important within the current context of the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccine rollout, requires the strengthening of existing immunization activities and innovative approach to immunization promotion. This research applied a descriptive case study methodology to document the implementation of strategic multi-level alliances to promote equitable immunization access and demand in Colombia, Guyana, and Sucre, Bolivia. Data collection, carried out between September 2019 and March 2020, included documentary reviews, semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and site visits accompanied by discussions with relevant stakeholders. Case studies provide valuable examples of people-centered, partnership-based, country-owned, and data-guided approaches to promoting equitable immunization coverage, including multi-level partnerships to build technical capacity for the identification and measurement of social inequalities impacting immunization in Colombia; intersectoral and community collaboration for pro-equity emergency response to regional vaccine preventable disease outbreaks in Guyana; and strategic alliances with the education sector and civil society organizations for the introduction of the human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine in Sucre, Bolivia. Lessons learned highlight avenues for improving the impact of multi-level, equity-focused capacity building, particularly at the local level; optimizing the use of data and resources, partnerships, and community and stakeholder education and empowerment. While impact studies are needed to better understand the quantitative contributions of such strategic alliances, these case studies illustrate their practical significance and reinforce the value of multi-level, intersectoral collaboration for enhancing equitable immunization access and demand. The experiences of Colombia, Guyana, and Sucre, Bolivia provide evidence-based insight to support pro-equity immunization program planning to ensure that no one is left behind and that everyone, everywhere receives the benefits of vaccines, both routine and for COVID-19.

How do social and economic vulnerabilities shape the work of participating in care? Everyday experiences of people living with kidney failure in Argentina.

BACKGROUND: A new chronic patient has emerged, with a burden of symptoms and treatment. Patients with kidney failure (KF) require complex and expensive treatments, and in underresourced contexts, they struggle to obtain quality and timely care, even in countries with universal health coverage. We describe how, in such a setting, social structural factors and control over services placed by the system affect the burden of treatment of patients. METHOD: This qualitative study was undertaken in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Semistructured interviews were conducted with patients with KF (n = 50) and health professionals (n = 14) caring for these patients. Additionally, three types of health coverage were included: public health, social security and private healthcare, with diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. FINDINGS: Patients' agency to meet demands is extended by relational networks with redistributed responsibilities and roles. Networks provided logistical, financial, emotional support; indeed, patients with limited networks were susceptible to rapid health deterioration, as treatment interruptions could not be identified in time. Control over services translated into scarce information about treatment options, changing dialysis schedules, lack of contact with transplant teams, and new rules to access medication or make requests. For any type of coverage, there was an economic burden related to noncovered medication, copayments, travel, caregivers, specialized diets, and moving to a city offering treatment. Many patients reported economic difficulties that prevented them from even affording meals. Hardships worsened by unemployment because of the disease. Some patients had migrated seeking treatment, leaving everything behind, but could not return without risking their life. Transplanted patients often needed to re-enter the labor market against a background of high unemployment rates. CONCLUSION: While health policy and practices encourage self-management, the patient may not have the capacity to meet the system's demands. A better understanding of BoT could contribute to improving how patients experience their illness.

Optimizing Tobacco Advertising Bans in Seven Latin American Countries: Microsimulation Modeling of Health and Financial Impact to Inform Evidence-Based Policy.

INTRODUCTION: In Latin America, tobacco smoking prevalence is between 6.4% and 35.2%. Governments have been making efforts to support the regulation of advertising and, in many cases, banning advertising and promotion of tobacco altogether. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential impact on health and economic outcomes of optimizing a ban on tobacco advertising and sponsorship in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Peru. METHODS: We built a probabilistic microsimulation model, considering natural history, direct health system costs, and quality of life impairment associated with main tobacco-related diseases. We followed individuals in hypothetical cohorts and calculated health outcomes on an annual basis to obtain aggregated 10-year population health outcomes (deaths, events, healthy years of life) and costs. To populate the model, we performed a rapid review of literature to calculate intervention effectiveness. RESULTS: With current policies, over 10 years, in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, and Colombia a total of 50,000 deaths and 364,000 disease events will be averted, saving $7.2 billion. If the seven countries strengthened their policies and implemented a comprehensive ban with 100% compliance, 98,000 deaths and 648,000 events would be averted over 10 years, saving almost $15 billion in healthcare costs. CONCLUSIONS: Optimizing a ban on tobacco advertising and sponsorship would substantially reduce deaths, diseases, and health care costs attributed to smoking. Latin American countries should not delay the full implementation of this strategy.

Workplace interventions to increase colorectal cancer screening: health technology assessment / Intervenciones en ámbito laboral para incrementar el rastreo de cáncer colorrectal: evaluación de tecnología sanitaria

RESUMEN INTRODUCCIÓN : El cáncer de colon y recto (CCR) es la tercera neoplasia más frecuente y la cuarta causa de muerte por cáncer a nivel mundial. En Argentina es la segunda neoplasia maligna más frecuente, con el 11,8% de los casos. El objetivo del informe fue evaluar la evidencia sobre la eficacia de intervenciones efectuadas en el ámbito laboral para incrementar el rastreo de CCR. MÉTODOS : Se realizó una búsqueda en bases de datos bibliográficas, buscadores genéricos de Internet y sitios ministeriales de salud y educación nacionales. RESULTADOS : Se incluyeron dos estudios clínicos aleatorizados (ECA) por conglomerados, un ECA, cinco estudios de implementación sin grupo control, reportes de programas y guías de prácticas clínicas de rastreo del CCR desarrollados en países de América y una guía europea. Las intervenciones en el ámbito laboral son eficaces para aumentar la tasa de rastreo. La entrega de kits para test de sangre oculta en materia fecal (TSOMF) fue la intervención más utilizada, seguida por distribución de información y sesiones educativas. Se vio mayor eficacia de las intervenciones en quienes contaban con historia familiar de CCR o recibían información sobre el riesgo individual de desarrollar la enfermedad. Los encuentros educativos en ámbitos laborales son un entorno aceptable para difundir información y distribuir kits para TSOMF. DISCUSIÓN : Un abordaje compuesto por intervenciones en el ámbito laboral podría incrementar la tasa de rastreo de CCR en la población general.

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION : Colorectal cáncer (CRC) is the thirdmost frequent neoplasm and the fourth cause of death from cáncer worldwide. In Argentina it is the second most frequent malignancy, with 11.8% of the cases. The objective of the study was to assess the evidence on the effectiveness of workplace interventions aimed at increasing the screening rate of CRC. METHODS : A search was conducted in bibliographic databases, generic Internet search engines, and national health and education ministry websites. RESULTS : Two cluster randomized clinical trials (RCTs), one RCT, five non-control group implementation studies, program reports and clinical practice guidelines for CRC screening developed in American countries as well as a European guideline were included. Workplace interventions are effective for increasing the rate of screening. The delivery of faecal occult blood test (FOBT) kits was the most frequently usedintervention, followed by information distribution and educational meetings. Interventions were more effective in those who had a family history of CRC or who were informed of the individual risk of developing the disease. Educational meetings in the workplace are an acceptable environment for disseminating information and distributing FOBT kits. DISCUSSION : An approach consisting of workplace interventions could increase the rate of CRC screening in the general population.

Intervenciones en ámbito laboral para incrementar el rastreo de cáncer colorrectal evaluación de tecnología sanitaria / Workplace interventions to increase colorectal cancer screening: health technology assessment

INTRODUCCIÓN: El cáncer de colon y recto (CCR) es la tercera neoplasia más frecuente y la cuarta causa de muerte por cáncer a nivel mundial. En Argentina es la segunda neoplasia maligna más frecuente, con el 11,8% de los casos. El objetivo del informe fue evaluar la evidencia sobre la eficacia de intervenciones efectuadas en el ámbito laboral para incrementar el rastreo de CCR. MÉTODOS: Se realizó una búsqueda en bases de datos bibliográficas, buscadores genéricos de Internet y sitios ministeriales de salud y educación nacionales. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron dos estudios clínicos aleatorizados (ECA) por conglomerados, un ECA, cinco estudios de implementación sin grupo control, reportes de programas y guías de prácticas clínicas de rastreo del CCR desarrollados en países de América y una guía europea. Las intervenciones en el ámbito laboral son eficaces para aumentar la tasa de rastreo. La entrega de kits para test de sangre oculta en materia fecal (TSOMF) fue la intervención más utilizada, seguida por distribución de información y sesiones educativas. Se vio mayor eficacia de las intervenciones en quienes contaban con historia familiar de CCR o recibían información sobre el riesgo individual de desarrollar la enfermedad. Los encuentros educativos en ámbitos laborales son un entorno aceptable para difundir información y distribuir kits para TSOMF. DISCUSIÓN: Un abordaje compuesto por intervenciones en el ámbito laboral podría incrementar la tasa de rastreo de CCR en la población general

The health and economic burden of smoking in 12 Latin American countries and the potential effect of increasing tobacco taxes: an economic modelling study.

BACKGROUND: Worldwide, smoking tobacco causes 7 million deaths annually, and this toll is expected to increase, especially in low-income and middle-income countries. In Latin America, smoking is a leading risk factor for death and disability, contributes to poverty, and imposes an economic burden on health systems. Despite being one of the most effective measures to reduce smoking, tobacco taxation is underused and cigarettes are more affordable in Latin America than in other regions. Our aim was to estimate the tobacco-attributable burden on mortality, disease incidence, quality of life lost, and medical costs in 12 Latin American countries, and the expected health and economic effects of increasing tobacco taxes. METHODS: In this modelling study, we developed a Markov probabilistic microsimulation economic model of the natural history, medical costs, and quality-of-life losses associated with the most common tobacco-related diseases in 12 countries in Latin America. Data inputs were obtained through a literature review, vital statistics, and hospital databases from each country: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Honduras, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay. The main outcomes of the model are life-years, quality-adjusted life-years, disease events, hospitalisations, disease incidence, disease cost, and healthy years of life lost. We estimated direct medical costs for each tobacco-related disease included in the model using a common costing methodology for each country. The disease burden was estimated as the difference in disease events, deaths, and associated costs between the results predicted by the model for current smoking prevalence and a hypothetical cohort of people in each country who had never smoked. The model estimates the health and financial effects of a price increase of cigarettes through taxes, in terms of disease and health-care costs averted, and increased tax revenues. FINDINGS: In the 12 Latin American countries analysed, we estimated that smoking is responsible for approximately 345 000 (12%) of the total 2 860 921 adult deaths, 2·21 million disease events, 8·77 million healthy years of life lost, and $26·9 billion in direct medical costs annually. Health-care costs attributable to smoking were estimated to represent 6·9% of the health budgets of these countries, equivalent to 0·6% of their gross domestic product. Tax revenues from cigarette sales cover 36·0% of the estimated health expenditures caused by smoking. We estimated that a 50% increase in cigarette price through taxation would avert more than 300 000 deaths, 1·3 million disease events, gain 9 million healthy life-years, and save $26·7 billion in health-care costs in the next 10 years, with a total economic benefit of $43·7 billion. INTERPRETATION: Smoking represents a substantial health and economic burden in these 12 countries of Latin America. Tobacco tax increases could successfully avert deaths and disability, reduce health-care spending, and increase tax revenues, resulting in large net economic benefits. FUNDING: International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Canada.

Smoke-Free Air Interventions in Seven Latin American Countries: Health and Financial Impact to Inform Evidence-Based Policy Implementation.

INTRODUCTION: Disease burden due to tobacco smoking in Latin America remains very high. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential impact of implementing smoke-free air interventions on health and cost outcomes in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Peru, using a mathematical model. AIMS AND METHODS: We built a probabilistic Monte Carlo microsimulation model, considering natural history, direct health system costs, and quality of life impairment associated with main tobacco-related diseases. We followed individuals in hypothetical cohorts and calculated health outcomes on an annual basis to obtain aggregated 10-year population health outcomes (deaths and events) and costs. To populate the model, we completed an overview and systematic review of the literature. Also, we calibrated the model comparing the predicted disease-specific mortality rates with those coming from local national statistics. RESULTS: With current policies, for the next 10 years, a total of 137 121 deaths and 917 210 events could be averted, adding 3.84 million years of healthy life and saving USD 9.2 billion in these seven countries. If countries fully implemented smoke-free air strategies, it would be possible to avert nearly 180 000 premature deaths and 1.2 million events, adding 5 million healthy years of life and saving USD 13.1 billion in direct healthcare. CONCLUSIONS: Implementing the smoke-free air strategy would substantially reduce deaths, diseases, and health care costs attributed to smoking. Latin American countries should not delay the full implementation of this strategy. IMPLICATIONS: Tobacco smoking is the single most preventable and premature mortality cause in the world. The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, supported by the World Health Organization, introduced a package of evidence-based measures for tobacco control. This study adds quality evidence on the potential health effects and savings of implementing smoke-free air policies in countries representing almost 80% of the Latin America and the Caribbean population.

Health and Economic Impact of Health Warnings and Plain Tobacco Packaging in Seven Latin American Countries: Results of a Simulation Model.

INTRODUCTION: The burden of disease attributable to tobacco use in Latin America is very high. Our objective was to evaluate the 10-year potential impact of current legislation related to cigarette packaging and warnings and expected effects of moving to a higher level of strategies implementing cigarette plain packaging on health and cost outcomes in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Peru, using a microsimulation model. AIMS AND METHODS: We used a probabilistic state-transition microsimulation model, considering natural history, costs, and quality of life losses associated with main tobacco-related diseases. We followed up individuals in hypothetical cohorts and calculated health outcomes annually to obtain aggregated long-term population health outcomes and costs. We performed a literature review to estimate effects and analyzed studies and information from ministries, relevant organizations, and national surveys. We calibrated the model comparing the predicted disease-specific mortality rates with local statistics. RESULTS: Current graphic warnings already in place in each country could avert, during 10 years, 69 369 deaths and 638 295 disease events, adding 1.2 million years of healthy life and saving USD 5.3 billion in the seven countries. If these countries implemented plain packaging strategies, additional 155 857 premature deaths and 4 133 858 events could be averted, adding 4.1 million healthy years of life and saving USD 13.6 billion in direct health care expenses of diseases attributable to smoking. CONCLUSIONS: Latin American countries should not delay the implementation of this strategy that will alleviate part of the enormous health and financial burden that tobacco poses on their economies and health care systems. IMPLICATIONS: Tobacco smoking is the single most preventable and premature mortality cause in the world. The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, supported by the World Health Organization, introduced a package of evidence-based measures for tobacco control. This study adds evidence on the potential health effects and savings of implementing cigarette plain packaging in countries representing almost 80% of the Latin American population; findings are valuable resources for policy makers in the region.

Work of being an adult patient with chronic kidney disease: a systematic review of qualitative studies.

INTRODUCTION: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) requires patients and caregivers to invest in self-care and self-management of their disease. We aimed to describe the work for adult patients that follows from these investments and develop an understanding of burden of treatment (BoT). METHODS: Systematic review of qualitative primary studies that builds on EXPERTS1 Protocol, PROSPERO registration number: CRD42014014547. We included research published in English, Spanish and Portuguese, from 2000 to present, describing experience of illness and healthcare of people with CKD and caregivers. Searches were conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL Plus, PsycINFO, Scopus, Scientific Electronic Library Online and Red de Revistas Científicas de América Latina y el Caribe, España y Portugal. Content was analysed with theoretical framework using middle-range theories. RESULTS: Searches resulted in 260 studies from 30 countries (5115 patients and 1071 carers). Socioeconomic status was central to the experience of CKD, especially in its advanced stages when renal replacement treatment is necessary. Unfunded healthcare was fragmented and of indeterminate duration, with patients often depending on emergency care. Treatment could lead to unemployment, and in turn, to uninsurance or underinsurance. Patients feared catastrophic events because of diminished financial capacity and made strenuous efforts to prevent them. Transportation to and from haemodialysis centre, with variable availability and cost, was a common problem, aggravated for patients in non-urban areas, or with young children, and low resources. Additional work for those uninsured or underinsured included fund-raising. Transplanted patients needed to manage finances and responsibilities in an uncertain context. Information on the disease, treatment options and immunosuppressants side effects was a widespread problem. CONCLUSIONS: Being a person with end-stage kidney disease always implied high burden, time-consuming, invasive and exhausting tasks, impacting on all aspects of patients' and caregivers' lives. Further research on BoT could inform healthcare professionals and policy makers about factors that shape patients' trajectories and contribute towards a better illness experience for those living with CKD. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42014014547.

Assessment of delirium using the PRE-DELIRIC model in an intensive care unit in Argentina. / Avaliação de delirium com uso do modelo PRE-DELIRIC em uma unidade de terapia intensiva na Argentina.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the incidence of and risk factors for delirium in the intensive care unit of a tertiary care teaching hospital in Argentina and to conduct the first non-European study exploring the performance of the PREdiction of DELIRium in ICu patients (PRE-DELIRIC) model. METHODS: Prospective observational study in a 20-bed intensive care unit of a tertiary care teaching hospital in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The PRE-DELIRIC model was applied to 178 consecutive patients within 24 hours of admission to the intensive care unit; delirium was assessed with the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU). RESULTS: The mean age was 64.3 ± 17.9 years. The median time of stay in the intensive care unit was 6 (range, 2 - 56) days. Of the total number of patients, 49/178 (27.5%) developed delirium, defined as a positive CAM-ICU assessment, during their stay in the intensive care unit. Patients in the delirium group were significantly older and had a significantly higher Acute Physiological and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) score. The mortality rate in the intensive care unit was 14.6%; no significant difference was observed between the two groups. Predictive factors for the development of delirium were increased age, prolonged intensive care unit stay, and opioid use. The area under the curve for the PRE-DELIRIC model was 0.83 (95%CI; 0.77 - 0.90). CONCLUSIONS: The observed incidence of delirium highlights the importance of this problem in the intensive care unit setting. In this first study conducted outside Europe, PRE-DELIRIC accurately predicted the development of delirium.

Avaliação de delirium com uso do modelo PRE-DELIRIC em uma unidade de terapia intensiva na Argentina / Assessment of delirium using the PRE-DELIRIC model in an intensive care unit in Argentina

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever a incidência e os fatores de risco para delirium na unidade de terapia intensiva de um hospital terciário de ensino na Argentina, e conduzir o primeiro estudo não europeu para explorar o desempenho do modelo PREdiction of DELIRium in ICu Patients (PRE-DELIRIC). Métodos: Estudo prospectivo observacional em uma unidade de terapia intensiva com 20 leitos localizada em um hospital terciário de ensino em Buenos Aires, Argentina. O modelo PRE-DELIRIC foi aplicado a 178 pacientes consecutivos dentro de 24 horas após sua admissão à unidade de terapia intensiva. Avaliou-se o delirium com uso da ferramenta Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU). Resultados: A média de idade foi de 64,3 ± 17,9 anos. O tempo mediano de permanência na unidade de terapia intensiva foi de 6 dias (variação entre 2 e 56 dias). Dentre o total de pacientes, 49/178 (27,5%) desenvolveram delirium, definido como avaliação positiva segundo a CAM-ICU, durante a permanência na unidade de terapia intensiva. Os pacientes no grupo com delirium eram significantemente mais velhos e tinham escore Acute Physiological and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) significantemente mais elevado. A taxa de mortalidade na unidade de terapia intensiva foi de 14,6%; não se observou diferença significante entre os dois grupos. Os fatores preditivos para desenvolvimento de delirium foram idade mais avançada, tempo prolongado de permanência na unidade e uso de opioides. A área sob a curva para o modelo PRE-DELIRIC foi de 0,83 (IC95%: 0,77 - 0,90). Conclusões: A incidência observada de delirium salienta a importância deste problema no ambiente da unidade de terapia intensiva. Neste primeiro estudo conduzido fora da Europa, o PRE-DELIRIC previu de forma precisa o desenvolvimento de delirium.

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe the incidence of and risk factors for delirium in the intensive care unit of a tertiary care teaching hospital in Argentina and to conduct the first non-European study exploring the performance of the PREdiction of DELIRium in ICu patients (PRE-DELIRIC) model. Methods: Prospective observational study in a 20-bed intensive care unit of a tertiary care teaching hospital in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The PRE-DELIRIC model was applied to 178 consecutive patients within 24 hours of admission to the intensive care unit; delirium was assessed with the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU). Results: The mean age was 64.3 ± 17.9 years. The median time of stay in the intensive care unit was 6 (range, 2 - 56) days. Of the total number of patients, 49/178 (27.5%) developed delirium, defined as a positive CAM-ICU assessment, during their stay in the intensive care unit. Patients in the delirium group were significantly older and had a significantly higher Acute Physiological and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) score. The mortality rate in the intensive care unit was 14.6%; no significant difference was observed between the two groups. Predictive factors for the development of delirium were increased age, prolonged intensive care unit stay, and opioid use. The area under the curve for the PRE-DELIRIC model was 0.83 (95%CI; 0.77 - 0.90). Conclusions: The observed incidence of delirium highlights the importance of this problem in the intensive care unit setting. In this first study conducted outside Europe, PRE-DELIRIC accurately predicted the development of delirium.

[Nephrologists' perspectives on kidney donation and transplantation in Argentina]. / La perspectiva de los nefrólogos acerca de la donación y el trasplante renal en la Argentina.

Our aim was to explore and describe Argentine transplant nephrologists' perspectives on the renal transplant situation. Professionals (n = 22) in charge of teams and/or responsible for accepting grafts, donors, and transplant candidates, were specifically chosen. In-depth semistructured interviews were recorded, transcribed, analyzed and thematically coded. More than 50% of these professionals agreed on the need to promote organ donation. Almost half felt that dialysis centers did not refer their patients to transplant centers for their evaluation; as they should. Half of participants stated that the information provided by the allocation team was unreliable. Patients' non-compliance was identified as a major problem, mainly due to socio economic issues. Participants (n = 5/22) maintained that transplantation procedures were stagnant mainly due to low donor rates, poor training or lack of information at hand for nephrologists and transplant nephrologists. Participants alleged the need of further information, training and commitment of health professionals in the identity and referral of donors and transplant candidates. Also, it must be taken into account that socioeconomic difficulties affect the process at different stages. These issues need to be addressed in order to improve transplantation outcome where transparency and equality are concerned.

La perspectiva de los nefrólogos acerca de la donación y el trasplante renal en la Argentina

El objetivo de este trabajo cualitativo fue explorar y describir la perspectiva de los nefrólogos acerca de la situación de la donación y el trasplante en la Argentina. Participaron 22 jefes de equipo de trasplante y/o profesionales a cargo de la toma de decisiones sobre la aceptación de injertos, donantes y candidatos a trasplante, de una muestra intencional. Se realizaron entrevistas en profundidad, semi-estructuradas, que se grabaron, transcribieron, analizaron y codificaron temáticamente. Más de la mitad de los participantes coincidió en la necesidad de promover la donación de órganos; casi la mitad dijo que los centros de diálisis no enviaban todos los pacientes que deberían a realizar estudios para trasplante. La mitad de los participantes confirmó que la información brindada por el equipo de procuración no era confiable. Se identificó la falta de adherencia de los pacientes al tratamiento como un problema serio, principalmente a causa de la situación socio-económica. 5/22 participantes expresaron que la cantidad de trasplantes no aumentaba por bajas tasas de donación, entrenamiento deficiente o falta de información de los nefrólogos. Los participantes percibieron una necesidad de información, entrenamiento y compromiso de los profesionales de la salud en la identificación y derivación de posibles donantes y receptores y señalaron que los problemas socioeconómicos afectan al proceso en diferentes etapas. Estos temas deberían ser tenidos en cuenta para mejorar los resultados del trasplante en un contexto de transparencia y equidad.

Our aim was to explore and describe Argentine transplant nephrologists' perspectives on the renal transplant situation. Professionals (n = 22) in charge of teams and/or responsible for accepting grafts, donors, and transplant candidates, were specifically chosen. In-depth semistructured interviews were recorded, transcribed, analyzed and thematically coded. More than 50% of these professionals agreed on the need to promote organ donation. Almost half felt that dialysis centers did not refer their patients to transplant centers for their evaluation; as they should. Half of participants stated that the information provided by the allocation team was unreliable. Patients' non-compliance was identified as a major problem, mainly due to socio economic issues. Participants (n = 5/22) maintained that transplantation procedures were stagnant mainly due to low donor rates, poor training or lack of information at hand for nephrologists and transplant nephrologists. Participants alleged the need of further information, training and commitment of health professionals in the identity and referral of donors and transplant candidates. Also, it must be taken into account that socioeconomic difficulties affect the process at different stages. These issues need to be addressed in order to improve transplantation outcome where transparency and equality are concerned.

Health insurance status and outcomes of critically ill obstetric patients: a prospective cohort study in Argentina.

PURPOSE: In Argentina, uninsured patients receive public health care, and the insured receive private health care. Our aim was to compare different outcomes between critically ill obstetric patients from both sectors. METHODS: This is a prospective cohort, including pregnant/postpartum patients requiring admission to 1 intensive care unit in the public sector (uninsured) and 1 in the private (insured) from January 1, 2008, to September 30, 2011. RESULTS: A total of 151 patients were included in the study. In uninsured (n = 63) vs insured (n = 88) patients, Acute Physiology and Chronic Evaluation II (APACHE II) and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores were 11 ± 6.5 vs 8 ± 4 and 3 (2-7) vs 1 (0-2), respectively, and 84% vs 100% received prenatal care (P = .001 for all). Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) was present in 32 (54%) uninsured vs 9 (10%) insured patients (P = .001), and acute respiratory distress syndrome developed in 18 (30.5%) of 59 vs 2(2%) of 88 (P = .001). Neonatal survival was 80% vs 96% (P = .003). Variables independently associated with the development of MODS were APACHE II (odds ratio, 1.30 [1.13-1.49]), referral from another hospital (odds ratio, 11.43 [1.86-70.20]), lack of health insurance (odds ratio 6.75 [2.17-20.09]), and shock (odds ratio 4.82 [1.54-15.06]). Three patients died, all uninsured. CONCLUSIONS: Uninsured critically ill obstetric patients (public sector) were more severely ill on admission and experienced worse outcomes than insured patients (private sector). Variables independently associated with MODS were APACHE II, shock, referral from another hospital, and lack of insurance.