Impact of water quality on reprocessing equipment: Assessment of neurosurgical instruments cleaning and biofilm formation in hospital pipes.

Background: The presence of contamination and microorganisms at any stage of processing renders a method unsafe, leading to a high risk of cross-transmission and cross-infection. Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the cleaning quality of aspirator instruments used in neurosurgical procedures. Methods: The experimental study was conducted at the materials and sterilization center, as well as the microbiology laboratory, of a philanthropic hospital in Brazil. A study protocol was implemented, which involved the analysis of 10 samples of Yasargil aspirators with varying dimensions. The samples were subjected to protein tests to detect the presence of organic matter and microbiological analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Results: The results indicated that 40% of the instruments tested positive for protein after manual cleaning. Furthermore, after automated cleaning, samples showed an increased microbiological load, with Escherichia coli accounting for 20% and Klebsiella aerogenes for 10% of the identified microorganisms. Conclusion: This study provides evidence of failures in the cleaning process of healthcare products and highlights the presence of biofilm in the pipes, thereby compromising the drinking water quality standard.

Assessment of peripheral venous catheters microbiota and its association with phlebitis.

BACKGROUND: Peripheral venous catheters (PVCs) remain the primary mode of short-term venous access for managing intravenous fluid, obtaining blood samples, and peripheral parenteral nutrition. They may get contaminated and require regular monitoring to prevent complications. This study evaluated the occurrence of phlebitis and its associated-clinical and microbiological indicators. METHODS: The frequency of phlebitis was evaluated in hospitalized patients of both medical and surgical fields. Subsequently, the dichotomous association between the presence of phlebitis and the clinical aspects was investigated. In parallel, the bacterial contamination of PVCs was assessed through culture-based methods, microscopy observation, and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. RESULTS: Approximately one in four patients presented phlebitis (28.4%). The most frequent symptom was erythema at access site, with or without pain, corresponding to Score 1 on the phlebitis scale (17.9%). Colonization of both lumen and external surface of PVC was observed in 31.3% of the samples. Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas were the most isolated bacterial genera on the PVC surface. No significant association was observed between the presence of phlebitis and the clinical aspects, as well as the presence of microorganisms. CONCLUSION: Microorganism were present on both internal and external PVC surface, without being associated to phlebitis.

The implications of healthcare professionals wearing jewelry on patient care biosafety: observational insights and experimental approaches.

The use of jewelry among healthcare professionals poses a risk of cross contamination due to potential bacterial accumulation and spread. Through a mixed-method design, this study first analyzed the implications of healthcare professionals wearing jewelry on patient care biosafety as well as on the residual bacterial load of hands and rings after hand hygiene. Firstly, an observational prevalence study to verify whether nursing professionals wear personal accessories during healthcare assistance was carried out. Second, an experimental design involving intentional contamination and hygiene of the hands, with and without a ring, was conducted. The bacterial load of both hands and rings was measured by counting colony forming units. The observational study showed that nursing workers frequently wear jewelry during healthcare assistance. Nonetheless, the experimental study did not indicate differences in bacterial contamination between hands with and without a ring, despite the hand hygiene procedure applied. In conclusion, many nursing workers wear jewelry in the workplace. Although hands with and without a ring exhibited similar microbial load, rings appeared as a potential source of bacterial contamination, reinforcing the need to remove jewelry during working hours. Hand hygiene using alcohol, or soap and water significantly decreased the bacterial load on the participants' hands, with handwashing proving to be the most efficient method for removing intentional contamination.

Clinical outcomes in newborns of pregnant women with COVID-19: integrative review.

OBJECTIVES: to analyze clinical outcomes in newborns of pregnant women with COVID-19. METHODS: integrative review conducted in PubMed, Web of Knowledge, SCOPUS, CINHAL; 2,111 studies were obtained, and 8 articles comprised the final sample. RESULTS: clinical outcomes in neonates of pregnant women positive for COVID-19 were classified according to the following categories: a) contamination by COVID-19, reported in 62.5% of the studies; b) hospital discharge due to improvement, mentioned in 37.5% of the articles; c) death, representing rare cases in 25% of the sample. The most prevalent gestational complication was prematurity, mentioned in 75% of the studies. This complication has been observed due to cases of premature rupture of membranes and placental abruption. CONCLUSIONS: despite the knowledge of asymptomatic and mildly symptomatic behavior in neonates, it is important to continue the search for new clinical data, as this public has uncertain reactions to SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders, burnout, and psychological suffering in Brazilian nursing workers: A cross-sectional study.

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) pose a pervasive concern among nursing professionals due to the high physical workload. Simultaneously, the complex relationship between MSDs and mental health outcomes in this population remains an area of significant interest and importance. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of MSDs and their relationships with burnout and psychological suffering within the nursing workforce. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2020 involving 291 nursing professionals in Brazil. Standardized questionnaires were employed to gather information on MSDs, mental health outcomes, and pertinent work-related factors. Robust statistical analyses were conducted to ascertain the prevalence of MSDs, establish associations between MSDs and mental health outcomes, and delineate the influence of work-related factors on these associations. Statistical analysis was performed using the R software. Results: The study revealed a significant prevalence of musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs) among nursing workers, focusing on regions that include the lower back, upper back, neck, and shoulders. Individuals with MSIs in the lower back showed a marked increase in emotional exhaustion (p = 0.02), as did those with MSIs in the upper back (p <0.01) and depersonalization (p = 0.07). On the other hand, nursing professionals who reported MSIs in the neck and shoulders had considerably higher scores in emotional exhaustion (p <0.01 and p = 0.01, respectively) and depersonalization (p = 0.05 and p = 0.05, respectively). However, no significant correlations emerged between MSIs and depression or work-related factors. Conclusions: This study highlights the urgency of implementing proactive measures to prevent and manage MSDs within the nursing profession. Moreover, it emphasizes the critical need to enhance working conditions and provide robust support mechanisms to safeguard the mental health of nursing professionals.Open AccessOpen Access.

Effect of ozone gas on cultures of Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus: evaluation of two ozonation devices.

INTRODUCTION: Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus are two important agents of Healthcare-associated infections. This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal activity of ozone (O3) gas produced by two commercial devices against cultures of these two species. METHODOLOGY: Sterile plastic plates were inoculated with C. albicans and A. fumigatus and placed on a countertop at three distances (30 cm, 1 m, and 2 m) and three positions in relation to the wall (near, middle, and away), considering the source of O3. Plates were exposed to O3 for one hour and incubated. After incubation, the counting of colony-forming units was performed. As a control, an inoculated plate was incubated, without being exposed to O3. Tests were carried out with two different devices (namely, Mod.I and Mod.II), with the air conditioner on and off, in triplicate. RESULTS: Both devices showed antifungal activity. Mod. I presented better results, due to a higher flow rate. The best activity was on plates at 30 cm, middle position. Contrarily, on plates at 2m, near the wall, the inhibition activity was lower. The best results were obtained with the air conditioner off. Candida albicans was more sensitive to O3 than A. fumigatus. CONCLUSIONS: This method of decontamination by O3 gas shows potential due to its fast and easy execution. The establishment of new protocols for hygiene and hospital disinfection using this approach should be considered, which may reduce environmental contamination by fungi and, consequently, the burden of fungal infections.

Perceptions of the nursing team during the covid-19 pandemic: cross-sectional study / Percepções da equipe de enfermagem durante a pandemia por covid-19: estudo transversal / Percepciones del equipo de enfermería durante la pandemia de covid-19: estudio transversal

Background and Objectives: to identify the perceptions of nursing professionals who worked during the covid-19 pandemic regarding Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs) and Hand Hygiene (HH), categorizing them by profession and region in Brazil. Method: An observational study was conducted from November 2020 to December 2021, involving 493 nursing professionals from all regions of Brazil. The Google Forms® platform, disseminated through social media was used. A questionnaire titled "Basic Questionnaire on Healthcare Professionals' Perception of Healthcare-Associated Infections and Hand Hygiene" was administered. The results were analyzed descriptively, presenting absolute and relative frequencies, divided by groups of nursing professionals (nurses, technicians, and assistants) and by regions of Brazil. Results: The results showed that 43.9% of nurses reported a significant impact of HAIs on the clinical progression of patients, whereas only 26.7% of nursing technicians and assistants shared this perception. Regarding HH, 50.8% of nurses considered a substantial effort necessary to perform it adequately, while 68.9% of nursing technicians and assistants agreed with this statement. Conclusion: most nursing professionals had a high perception of HAIs and HH, considering their profession and geographic region. These findings can contribute to the development of future strategies aimed at improving HH practices in nursing care, particularly during outbreaks of infectious diseases such as covid-19.(AU)

Justificativa e Objetivos: identificar as percepções dos profissionais de enfermagem que atuaram durante a pandemia de covid-19 em relação às Infecções Relacionadas à Assistência à Saúde (IRAS) e à Higienização das Mãos (HM), classificando-os por profissão e regiões brasileiras. Método: estudo observacional foi conduzido de novembro/2020 a dezembro/2021, com a participação de 493 profissionais de enfermagem de todas as regiões do Brasil. Utilizou-se o formulário do Google Forms®, divulgado em redes sociais. Foi aplicado um questionário intitulado "Questionário básico sobre a percepção de profissionais de saúde sobre infecções relacionadas à assistência à saúde e à higienização das mãos". Os resultados foram analisados de forma descritiva, apresentando frequências absolutas e relativas, divididos por grupos de profissionais de enfermagem (enfermeiros, técnicos e auxiliares) e por regiões do Brasil. Resultados: Os resultados mostraram que 43,9% dos enfermeiros relataram um impacto muito alto das IRAS na evolução clínica dos pacientes, enquanto apenas 26,7% dos auxiliares e técnicos de enfermagem compartilharam essa percepção. Em relação à HM, 50,8% dos enfermeiros consideraram que é necessário um grande esforço para realizá-la adequadamente, enquanto 68,9% dos auxiliares e técnicos de enfermagem concordaram com essa afirmação. Conclusão: a maioria dos profissionais de enfermagem apresentou uma alta percepção sobre HM e IRAS, levando em consideração a profissão e a região geográfica. Esses resultados podem contribuir para o desenvolvimento de estratégias futuras com o objetivo de aprimorar as práticas de HM na assistência de enfermagem, principalmente durante surtos de doenças infecciosas, como a covid-19.(AU)

Justificación y Objetivos: identificar las percepciones de los profesionales de enfermería que trabajaron durante la pandemia de COVID-19 en relación con las Infecciones Relacionadas con la Atención de la Salud (IRAS) y la Higiene de las Manos (HM), clasificándolos por profesión y región. Métodos: se llevó a cabo un estudio observacional desde noviembre/2020 hasta diciembre/2021, con la participación de 493 profesionales de enfermería de las 5 regiones de Brasil. El formulario de Google® fue difundido en redes sociales. Se aplicó un cuestionario: "Cuestionario básico sobre la percepción de los profesionales de la salud sobre infecciones relacionadas con la atención de la salud y la higiene de las manos". Los resultados se analizaron de manera descriptiva, presentando frecuencias absolutas y relativas, divididos por enfermeros, técnicos y auxiliares y por regiones. Resultados: 43,9% de los enfermeros informaron impacto muy alto de IRAS en la evolución de los pacientes, mientras que solo 26,7% de los auxiliares y técnicos compartieron esta percepción. En cuanto a la HM, 50,8% de los enfermeros consideraron que se requiere gran esfuerzo para llevarla a cabo adecuadamente, mientras que 68,9% de los auxiliares y técnicos de enfermería estuvieron de acuerdo con esta afirmación. Conclusión: la mayoría de los profesionales de enfermería tuvo una percepción alta sobre las IRAS y la HM, teniendo en cuenta la profesión y la región. Esto puede contribuir al desarrollo de estrategias para mejorar las prácticas de HM en la enfermería, especialmente durante enfermedades infecciosas como el covid-19.(AU)

Hand hygiene knowledge among nursing professionals during a pandemic: insights from a cross-sectional study in Brazil / Conhecimento sobre higiene das mãos entre profissionais de enfermagem durante uma pandemia: insights de um estudo transversal no Brasil / Conocimiento de higiene de manos entre profesionales de enfermería durante una pandemia: perspectivas de un estudio transversal en Brasil

Background and Objectives: hand hygiene (HH) is a crucial safety practice, but lack of knowledge can hinder compliance. The objective was to measure and assess the knowledge of nursing professionals who provided care during the COVID-19 pandemic regarding HH and to verify the association between HH knowledge and professional category and regions in Brazil. Methods: an observational study was conducted from November 2020 to December 2021 involving 493 nursing professionals from all regions of Brazil. Data collection was carried out using Google Forms® and social media platforms. The Hand Hygiene Knowledge Test for Healthcare Professionals was used, and results were analyzed descriptively. Pearson's chi-square test (x2) and Fisher's exact test were employed to assess associations. Results: among the participants, the majority (74.7%) had limited or subpar knowledge of HH. Nurses had a higher level of knowledge compared to nursing assistants and licensed practical nurses. Associations were found between professional category and correct answers regarding microorganism destruction time and the type of HH to be used. Conclusion: Brazilian nursing professionals had limited knowledge of HH, with nurses displaying a higher level of knowledge compared to nursing assistants and licensed practical nurse. Continuous education and guidance are necessary to improve HH practices among the nursing staff.(AU)

Justificativas e Objetivos: a higiene das mãos (HM) é uma prática crucial para a segurança, mas a falta de conhecimento pode prejudicar a adesão. Este estudo avaliou o conhecimento dos profissionais de enfermagem que prestaram cuidados durante a pandemia de Covid-19 em relação à HM e explorou a associação entre o conhecimento de HM, categoria profissional e regiões no Brasil. Métodos: um estudo observacional foi conduzido de novembro de 2020 a dezembro de 2021 envolvendo 493 profissionais de enfermagem de todas as regiões do Brasil. A coleta de dados foi realizada usando o Google Forms® e plataformas de mídia social. Foi utilizado o Teste de Conhecimento de Higiene das Mãos para Profissionais de Saúde, e os resultados foram analisados descritivamente. O teste qui-quadrado de Pearson (x2) e o teste exato de Fisher foram empregados para avaliar as associações. Resultados: entre os participantes, a maioria (74,7%) tinha conhecimento limitado ou insuficiente sobre HM. Os enfermeiros apresentaram um nível mais elevado de conhecimento em comparação com os auxiliares e técnicos de enfermagem. Foram encontradas associações entre a categoria profissional e respostas corretas sobre o tempo de destruição de microrganismos e o tipo de HM a ser utilizado. Conclusão: os profissionais de enfermagem brasileiros possuíam conhecimento limitado sobre HM, sendo que os enfermeiros apresentaram um nível mais elevado de conhecimento em comparação com os auxiliares e técnicos de enfermagem. Educação contínua e orientação são necessárias para melhorar as práticas de HM entre a equipe de enfermagem.(AU)

Justificación e Objetivos: la higiene de manos (HM) es una práctica de seguridad crucial, pero la falta de conocimiento puede dificultar el cumplimiento. Este estudio evaluó el conocimiento de los profesionales de enfermería que brindaron atención durante la pandemia de Covid-19 en relación con la HM y exploró la asociación entre el conocimiento de HM, la categoría profesional y las regiones en Brasil. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional desde noviembre de 2020 hasta diciembre de 2021 que incluyó a 493 profesionales de enfermería de todas las regiones de Brasil. La recopilación de datos se realizó utilizando Google Forms® y plataformas de redes sociales. Se utilizó el Test de Conocimiento de Higiene de Manos para Profesionales de la Salud, y los resultados se analizaron de manera descriptiva. Se emplearon la prueba chi-cuadrado de Pearson (x2) y la prueba exacta de Fisher para evaluar las asociaciones. Resultados: entre los participantes, la mayoría (74,7%) tenía conocimiento limitado o deficiente de HM. Las enfermeras tenían un nivel de conocimiento más alto en comparación con los auxiliares y técnicos de enfermería. Se encontraron asociaciones entre la categoría profesional y las respuestas correctas sobre el tiempo de destrucción de microorganismos y el tipo de HM que debía utilizarse. Conclusión: los profesionales de enfermería brasileños tenían un conocimiento limitado de HM, siendo que las enfermeras mostraban un nivel de conocimiento más alto en comparación con los auxiliares y técnicos de enfermería. Se requiere educación continua y orientación para mejorar las prácticas de HM entre el equipo de enfermería(AU)

Unveiling the efficacy of latex gloves in preventing viral infections during needlestick injuries: An in vitro mixed-methods study.

BACKGROUND: Gloves are personal protective equipment designed to prevent contamination and reduce the spread of microorganisms. This study aimed to assess in vitro the physical integrity of latex gloves and the retention of biological contamination in healthcare simulation. METHOD: Three different batches of latex procedure gloves from five different brands and specific batches were evaluated before use for physical integrity by the standard protocols of the Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and of the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Moreover, the retention of biological contamination by latex procedure gloves in needlestick injury simulation with crystal violet and bacteriophages were applied in order to mimic human blood and virus presence. RESULTS: Brands D and C showed the best and worst results in the immediate inspections and after 2 min, respectively. For Brand C, damage occurred in one finger/region in a total of 12 gloves, while seven gloves were damaged/unable to be worn. Brand D presented only two gloves with tears and/or holes in one finger/region. Regarding the viral contamination, in a simulated needlestick injury, data showed no significant difference among the groups. CONCLUSION: All glove brands presented physical damage that might affect the spread of microorganisms. The gloves did not exert an additional protective effect during a needlestick injury simulation in accordance with the two techniques used in this study.

Contamination of equipment and surfaces in the operating room anesthesia workspace: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Contamination of the breathing circuit and medication preparation surface of an anesthesia machine can increase the risk of cross-infection. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the contamination of the anesthetic medication preparation surface, respiratory circuits, and devices used in general anesthesia with assisted mechanical ventilation. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional, quantitative study conducted at the surgical center of a philanthropic hospital, of medium complexity located in the municipality of Três Lagoas, in the eastern region of the State of Mato Grosso do Sul. METHODS: Eighty-two microbiological samples were collected from the breathing circuits. After repeating the samples in different culture media, 328 analyses were performed. RESULTS: A higher occurrence of E. coli, Enterobacter spp., Pseudomonas spp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pneumoniae (P < 0.001) were observed. Variations were observed depending on the culture medium and sample collection site. CONCLUSION: The study findings underscore the inadequate disinfection of the inspiratory and expiratory branches, highlighting the importance of stringent cleaning and disinfection of high-touch surfaces.

A synthetic agent ameliorates polycystic kidney disease by promoting apoptosis of cystic cells through increased oxidative stress.

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most common monogenic cause of chronic kidney disease and the fourth leading cause of end-stage kidney disease, accounting for over 50% of prevalent cases requiring renal replacement therapy. There is a pressing need for improved therapy for ADPKD. Recent insights into the pathophysiology of ADPKD revealed that cyst cells undergo metabolic changes that up-regulate aerobic glycolysis in lieu of mitochondrial respiration for energy production, a process that ostensibly fuels their increased proliferation. The present work leverages this metabolic disruption as a way to selectively target cyst cells for apoptosis. This small-molecule therapeutic strategy utilizes 11beta-dichloro, a repurposed DNA-damaging anti-tumor agent that induces apoptosis by exacerbating mitochondrial oxidative stress. Here, we demonstrate that 11beta-dichloro is effective in delaying cyst growth and its associated inflammatory and fibrotic events, thus preserving kidney function in perinatal and adult mouse models of ADPKD. In both models, the cyst cells with homozygous inactivation of Pkd1 show enhanced oxidative stress following treatment with 11beta-dichloro and undergo apoptosis. Co-administration of the antioxidant vitamin E negated the therapeutic benefit of 11beta-dichloro in vivo, supporting the conclusion that oxidative stress is a key component of the mechanism of action. As a preclinical development primer, we also synthesized and tested an 11beta-dichloro derivative that cannot directly alkylate DNA, while retaining pro-oxidant features. This derivative nonetheless maintains excellent anti-cystic properties in vivo and emerges as the lead candidate for development.

Contamination of equipment and surfaces in the operating room anesthesia workspace: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Contamination of the breathing circuit and medication preparation surface of an anesthesia machine can increase the risk of cross-infection. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the contamination of the anesthetic medication preparation surface, respiratory circuits, and devices used in general anesthesia with assisted mechanical ventilation. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional, quantitative study conducted at the surgical center of a philanthropic hospital, of medium complexity located in the municipality of Três Lagoas, in the eastern region of the State of Mato Grosso do Sul. METHODS: Eighty-two microbiological samples were collected from the breathing circuits. After repeating the samples in different culture media, 328 analyses were performed. RESULTS: A higher occurrence of E. coli, Enterobacter spp., Pseudomonas spp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pneumoniae (P < 0.001) were observed. Variations were observed depending on the culture medium and sample collection site. CONCLUSION: The study findings underscore the inadequate disinfection of the inspiratory and expiratory branches, highlighting the importance of stringent cleaning and disinfection of high-touch surfaces.

Clinical outcomes in newborns of pregnant women with COVID-19: integrative review / Desfechos clínicos em recém-nascidos de mulheres grávidas com COVID-19: revisão integrativa / Desenlaces clínicos en recién nacidos de mujeres embarazadas con COVID-19: revisión integradora

ABSTRACT Objectives: to analyze clinical outcomes in newborns of pregnant women with COVID-19. Methods: integrative review conducted in PubMed, Web of Knowledge, SCOPUS, CINHAL; 2,111 studies were obtained, and 8 articles comprised the final sample. Results: clinical outcomes in neonates of pregnant women positive for COVID-19 were classified according to the following categories: a) contamination by COVID-19, reported in 62.5% of the studies; b) hospital discharge due to improvement, mentioned in 37.5% of the articles; c) death, representing rare cases in 25% of the sample. The most prevalent gestational complication was prematurity, mentioned in 75% of the studies. This complication has been observed due to cases of premature rupture of membranes and placental abruption. Conclusions: despite the knowledge of asymptomatic and mildly symptomatic behavior in neonates, it is important to continue the search for new clinical data, as this public has uncertain reactions to SARS-CoV-2 infection.

RESUMO Objetivos: analisar desfechos clínicos em recém-nascidos de mulheres grávidas com COVID-19. Métodos: revisão integrativa realizada no PubMed, Web of Knowledge, SCOPUS, CINHAL; foram obtidos 2.111 estudos, e 8 artigos compuseram a amostra final. Resultados: os desfechos clínicos em neonatos de mulheres grávidas positivas para COVID-19 foram classificados de acordo com as seguintes categorias: a) contaminação por COVID-19, relatada em 62,5% dos estudos; b) alta hospitalar devido à melhora, mencionada em 37,5% dos artigos; c) óbito, representando casos raros em 25% da amostra. A complicação gestacional mais prevalente foi prematuridade, mencionada em 75% dos estudos. Essa complicação foi observada devido a casos de ruptura prematura de membranas e descolamento de placenta. Conclusões: apesar do conhecimento do comportamento assintomático e levemente sintomático em neonatos, é importante continuar a busca por novos dados clínicos, pois esse público apresenta reações incertas à infecção por SARS-CoV-2.

RESUMEN Objetivos: analizar los desenlaces clínicos en recién nacidos de mujeres embarazadas con COVID-19. Métodos: revisión integradora realizada en PubMed, Web of Knowledge, SCOPUS, CINHAL; se obtuvieron 2.111 estudios y 8 artículos conformaron la muestra final. Resultados: los desenlaces clínicos en neonatos de mujeres embarazadas positivas para COVID-19 se clasificaron según las siguientes categorías: a) contaminación por COVID-19, reportada en el 62,5% de los estudios; b) alta hospitalaria debido a mejoría, mencionada en el 37,5% de los artículos; c) fallecimiento, representando casos raros en el 25% de la muestra. La complicación gestacional más prevalente fue la prematuridad, mencionada en el 75% de los estudios. Esta complicación se observó debido a casos de rotura prematura de membranas y desprendimiento de placenta. Conclusiones: a pesar del conocimiento del comportamiento asintomático y levemente sintomático en los recién nacidos, es importante continuar la búsqueda de nuevos datos clínicos, ya que este público presenta reacciones inciertas a la infección por el SARS-CoV-2.

Assessment of Soiling on Highly Touched Clinical Surfaces in Intensive Care Units.

AIM: The aim of this study is to evaluate highly touched clinical surfaces using visual inspection methods and adenosine triphosphate by bioluminescence to identify soiling in intensive care units. METHOD: Descriptive, cross-sectional study carried out in three intensive care units located in Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil. Data collection included 142 assessments of environmental surfaces. For data analysis, the Pareto diagram and descriptive statistics were used through measures of central tendency. RESULTS: The visual inspection identified dirtiness in the infusion pump, alcohol dispenser, and telephone. The surface that showed a high level of contamination by organic matter identified by the adenosine triphosphate bioluminescence test was the telephone, with a median of 1012 RLU/cm2 (±348.8). CONCLUSION: The surface evaluation methods used in the intensive care units made it possible to identify dirt on surfaces highly touched by hands, reinforcing the need for investments in training and audits in the process of cleaning and disinfecting surfaces.

Impact of an educational intervention on standard precautions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of an educational intervention on the knowledge of nursing professionals regarding standard precautions. METHODS: This is an almost experimental study conducted with 100 nursing professionals. Data collection was performed using a sociodemographic characterization instrument and the Standard Precautions Knowledge Questionnaire. The educational intervention was based on five moments, where the approach to questions with less than 70% accuracy was intensified. RESULTS: There was a significant difference between the scores of healthcare professionals before (16.20 ± 1.51) and after (16.90 ± 1.31) the educational intervention (W=3.336; p < 0.05). Regarding knowledge about hand hygiene after glove use, an increase in knowledge from 83% to 93% was obtained. CONCLUSIONS: A positive effect on the professionals' knowledge was recorded, demonstrating advances regarding the strengthening of already acquired knowledge and the understanding of new knowledge.

Adherence to standard precautions by nursing professionals in a public university hospital: a cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to analyze the adherence to standard precautions by nursing professionals in a public university hospital, and to identify associated factors. METHODOLOGY: This was a cross-sectional study with the nursing staff of a public university hospital. The participants provided sociodemographic and immunization data, training data on standard precautions and occupational accident history, and responded to the questionnaire on adherence to standard precautions (QASP). Descriptive data analysis and Pearson's Chi-square test (χ²) were performed, followed by Fisher's exact test to verify the association between the adherence to standard precautions (total score ≥ 76 points) and the sample characterization variables. Additionally, binary logistic regression indicated the odds ratio (OR) of the sample characterization variables for adherence to standard precautions. A p value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The average score for adherence to standard precautions, through QASP, by nursing professionals evaluated was 70.5 points. Association between the adherence to standard precautions and the professionals' sample characterization variables was not identified. However, it was observed that experienced professionals (≥15 years of experience in the institution) were more likely to adhere to standard precautions (OR 0.062; IC95% [0.006-0.663]; p = 0.021). CONCLUSIONS: In general, the adherence to standard precautions by nursing professionals working in health service in this study can be considered inadequate, highlighting major weaknesses in hand hygiene practices, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), recapping of used needles, and conduct after suffering occupational accidents. Experienced professionals were more likely to adhere to standard precautions.

Textiles impregnated with antimicrobial substances in healthcare services: systematic review.

Background: Antimicrobial textiles have proved to be a promising biosafety strategy. Thus, the current study was focused on identifying which antimicrobial substances impregnated in textiles used in healthcare services confer efficacy in reducing the microbial load present in these textiles and/or the Healthcare-Associated Infection (HAI) rates, when compared to conventional textiles. Methods: A systematic review of intervention studies using MEDLINE via the PubMed portal, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar and medRxiv. The studies identified were selected according to eligibility criteria and submitted to data extraction and methodological quality evaluation through Joanna Briggs Institute specific tools. The outcomes were synthesized qualitatively. Results: 23 studies were selected to comprise the final sample, in which antimicrobial textiles were used by hospitalized patients, by health professionals during work shifts and in inanimate healthcare environments. Conclusions: Copper, silver, zinc oxide, titanium and silver-doped titanium impregnated in textiles used by patients confer efficacy in reducing the microbial load of these textiles and/or the HAI rates. Quaternary ammonium, chlorhexidine, silver and copper together, quaternary ammonium, alcohols and isothiazolone derivatives together, chitosan and dimethylol dimethyl hydantoin together, all impregnated in textiles used by health professionals confer efficacy in reducing the microbial load of these textiles. Quaternary ammonium impregnated in textiles used in inanimate healthcare environments confers efficacy in reducing the microbial load of these textiles.

Appendicular Skeletal Muscle Mass Prediction in People Living With HIV: A Cross-sectional Study.

ABSTRACT: People living with HIV (PWH) experience an accelerated aging process. There is no anthropometric predictive model for appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) in PWH. This study develops anthropometric models to predict and validate ASM measured by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in PWH; DXA scans were obtained for 125 PWH (male = 74; age >18 years) on antiretroviral therapy. Fat mass ratio was used for lipodystrophy diagnosis. A multiple stepwise linear regression considered ASM DXA as the dependent variable and validated by PRESS method. A high power of determination and low standard estimate error were found for ASM DXA -predicted (adjusted r2 = 0.84 to 0.87, standard estimate error = 1.7-1.6 kg) and high PRESS validation coefficients (Q 2PRESS = 0.84-0.86, S PRESS = 1.7-1.6 kg). The variables included were lipodystrophy diagnosis, medial calf circumference, sex, and total body weight. We present novel, reliable, and validated anthropometric models to predict ASM DXA in PWH.

Knowledge, Attitude and Practices towards the Prevention of Schistosomiasis Mansoni in an Endemic Area of Alagoas, Northeast Brazil.

We analyzed the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of schistosomiasis mansoni prevention in an endemic area of Brazil. This cross-sectional study was conducted between March and May 2021, with 412 participants living in the municipality of Feira Grande, Alagoas, Brazil. Data collection occurred through visits to the Health Center Urbano II and Massapê, through an interview with a structured questionnaire to identify the levels of KAP regarding schistosomiasis prevention. Of all respondents, 70.87% lived in rural areas, 22.66% reported a history of past schistosomiasis and 52.71% never participated in schistosomiasis control program actions. Factors associated with better KAP scores were being part of an older age group, not using rainwater and having no history of past schistosomiasis. Specifically, among the domains, attitude was the highest score and knowledge was the lowest. Participation in a health intervention program, knowing someone who had schistosomiasis and having been informed through a public health program seemed to have an important impact on the population's KAP. Our results contributed to broadening perceptions about schistosomiasis prevention, highlighting the positive impacts that health programs and interventions have on disease control.

Monitoring of surface cleaning and disinfection in a Brazilian pediatric unit.

Background: Understanding the correlation between the methods of monitoring surface cleaning and disinfection (SCD) is fundamental for better infection control. Purpose: This study aims to correlate the SCD monitoring methods in a Brazilian pediatric unit. This is an exploratory, longitudinal, and correlational study. Methods: The study was conducted in a pediatric hospitalization unit of a medium-sized hospital from December 2020 to March 2021. Four high-contact surfaces were analyzed before and after the cleaning and disinfection process by means of visual inspection, quantification of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and colony-forming unit (CFU) count. The study consisted of three stages: stage I involving situational diagnosis of the SCD process; stage II referring to the implementation of the Surface Cleaning and Disinfection Standardization Program (SCDSP); and stage III involving long-term assessment after implementing the program. A total of 192 assessments were performed in each stage, totaling 576 in the three study stages. Conclusions: A significant correlation was found between the ATP quantification methods and microbial count in the bed railing (p = 0.009) and companion's armchair (p = 0.018) surfaces. In both cases, Spearman's correlation coefficients were positive, indicating a positive correlation between ATP and microbial count scores, that is, the higher the ATP values (in RLUs), the greater the microbial counts (in CFUs/cm2). The analysis of the ROC curves suggests that the surfaces presenting ATP below 108 RLUs can be considered approved. The ATP method yielded 78.6% sensitivity; in turn, microbial count presented a sensitivity of 85.7%. It is important to use different methods to monitor the cleaning and disinfection of surfaces, as each one has different sensitivity and specificity.