Hospitalizaciones evitables por problemas de salud sensibles a cuidados ambulatorios: construcción y validación de la lista Uruguaya de patologías

Introducción: Las hospitalizaciones por Ambulatory Care Sensitive Conditions es un indicador que mide la utilización de los servicios hospitalarios por problemas de salud que podrían haber sido prevenidos en el primer nivel de atención. El concepto se refiere a los procesos en que la atención ambulatoria efectiva puede ayudar a disminuir los riesgos de hospitalización, en un segundo nivel de atención. El objetivo del estudio fue construir y validar una lista uruguaya de problemas de salud sensibles a cuidados ambulatorios (PSSCA) según CIE-10. Metodología: Para la construcción de la lista inicial de códigos de PSSCA se realizó una revisión de los listados existentes y se propuso un listado inicial que fue validado a través del Método Delphi. Se propone un listado de 99 códigos diagnósticos de PSSCA adaptado a nuestro entono sanitario. Los mismos permiten identificar y cuantificar problemas de salud que pueden producir hospitalizaciones potenciamente evitables mediante cuidados ambulatorios accesibes y oportunos en el primer nivel de atención. Resultados: Se conformó un panel de 12 expertos. A partir de los datos obtenidos, considerando los 99 diagnósticos clasificados por CIE-10, éstos se pueden subclasificar en función de si la patología es infecciosa o no, obteniendo un resultado general de 62 patologías en un total de 99 que pueden ser clasificadas como infecciosas, lo que se corresponde a un 62 %. Discusión: De la comparación de la lista uruguaya de PSSCA a la que hemos arribado y las listas validadas utilizadas para la construcción inicial del listado de patologías propuesto, podemos decir que la primera presenta un mayor porcentaje de coincidencia con la lista de patologías de Bello Horizonte. Podemos mencionar que la mayoría de los problemas de salud identificados con base en el listado de PSSCA, son sensibles de ser resueltos con la atención primaria oportuna y de calidad que podría evitar o disminuir de una manera significativa su hospitalización. Conclusiones: Este trabajo describe el proceso de construcción y validación de una lista de códigos de PSSCA adaptados al contexto uruguayo a través del método Delphi. Hemos arribado a un listado que comprende un total de 99 diagnósticos, agrupadas en un total de diecinueve categorías que considera la especificidad del contexto uruguayo del indicador.

Introduction: Hospitalizations for Ambulatory Care Sensitive Conditions is an indicator that measures the use of hospital services for health problems that could have been prevented at the first level of care. The concept refers to the processes in which effective outpatient care can help reduce the risks of hospitalization, at a second level of care. The objective of the study was to build and validate a Uruguayan list of health problems sensitive to outpatient care (PSS-CA) according to ICD-10. Methodology: To construct the initial list of PSSCA codes, a review of the existing lists was carried out and an initial list was proposed that was validated through the Delphi Method. A list of 99 PSSCA diagnostic codes adapted to our healthcare environment is proposed. They make it possible to identify and quantify health problems that can lead to potentially avoidable hospitalizations through accessible and timely outpatient care at the first level of care. Results: A panel of 12 experts was formed. From the data obtained, considering the 99 diagnoses classified by ICD-10, these can be subclassified depending on whether the pathology is infectious or not, obtaining a general result of 62 pathologies in a total of 99 that can be classified as infectious, which corresponds to 62%. Discussion: From the comparison of the Uruguayan list of PSSCA that we have arrived at and the validated lists used for the initial construction of the proposed list of pathologies, we can say that the first presents a higher percentage of coincidence with the list of pathologies of Bello Horizonte . We can mention that most of the health problems identified based on the PSSCA list are sensitive to being resolved with timely and quality primary care that could prevent or significantly reduce hospitalization. Conclusions: This work describes the process of construction and validation of a list of PSSCA codes adapted to the Uruguayan context through the Delphi method. We have arrived at a list that includes a total of 99 diagnoses, grouped into a total of nineteen categories that consider the specificity of the Uruguayan context of the indicator.

Introdução: As Internações por Condições Sensíveis à Atenção Ambulatorial são um indicador que mede a utilização de serviços hospitalares para problemas de saúde que poderiam ter sido evitados no primeiro nível de atenção. O conceito refere-se aos processos em que um atendimento ambulatorial eficaz pode auxiliar na redução dos riscos de internação, em um segundo nível de atenção. O objetivo do estudo foi construir e validar uma lista uruguaia de problemas de saúde sensíveis à atenção ambulatorial (PSS-CA) segundo a CID-10. Metodologia: Para construir a lista inicial de códigos PSSCA foi realizada uma revisão das listas existentes e foi proposta uma lista inicial que foi validada através do Método Delphi. É proposta uma lista de 99 códigos de diagnóstico PSSCA adaptados ao nosso ambiente de saúde. Permitem identificar e quantificar problemas de saúde que podem levar a hospitalizações potencialmente evitáveis ​​através de cuidados ambulatórios acessíveis e oportunos no primeiro nível de cuidados. Resultados: Foi formado um painel de 12 especialistas. A partir dos dados obtidos, considerando os 99 diagnósticos classificados pela CID-10, estes podem ser subclassificados consoante a patologia seja infecciosa ou não, obtendo-se um resultado geral de 62 patologias num total de 99 que podem ser classificadas como infecciosas, o que corresponde para 62%. Discussão: A partir da comparação da lista uruguaia de PSSCA a que chegamos e das listas validadas utilizadas para a construção inicial da lista de patologias proposta, podemos dizer que a primeira apresenta um maior percentual de coincidência com a lista de patologias de Belo Horizonte. Podemos mencionar que a maioria dos problemas de saúde identificados com base na lista PSSCA são sensíveis para serem resolvidos com cuidados primários oportunos e de qualidade que possam prevenir ou reduzir significativamente a hospitalização. Conclusões: Este trabalho descreve o processo de construção e validação de uma lista de códigos PSSCA adaptados ao contexto uruguaio através do método Delphi. Chegamos a uma lista que inclui um total de 99 diagnósticos, agrupados em um total de dezenove categorias que consideram a especificidade do contexto uruguaio do indicador.

Acute Effects of Citrulline Malate Supplementation on Nocturnal Blood Pressure Dipping After Exercise in Hypertensive Patients: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Citrulline malate (CM), especially when used in conjunction with physical exercise, has demonstrated potential as a non-pharmacological adjunct in the management of hypertension. Nevertheless, its impact on nocturnal blood pressure dipping remains unexplored. OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the impact of a single dose of CM on nocturnal blood pressure dipping after exercise in hypertensive individuals. METHODS: In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group clinical trial, twenty hypertensive adults (55 ± 16 years) were randomly assigned to either a CM (6 g) or placebo (6 g of corn starch) group (PLA). Resting blood pressure was measured after a 20-min period of comfortable seating in a calm environment. Both groups underwent 40 min of treadmill running/walking at an intensity of 60-70% of their reserve heart rate, 120 min after ingesting the substances. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring was employed to measure blood pressure over 24 h. RESULTS: No significant differences in systolic blood pressure values were observed between the CM and PLA groups at rest, during wakefulness, sleep, or over a 24-h period. However, CM exhibited a significant reduction in diastolic blood pressure in several metrics: delta 24 h (-14 mmHg vs -6 mmHg, p = 0.047), delta wakefulness (-12 mmHg vs -4 mmHg, p = 0.024), percent delta 24 h (-16% vs -6%, p = 0.024), and percent delta wakefulness (-14% vs -4%, p = 0.013). No significant differences were found between CM and PLA in terms of systolic and diastolic nocturnal absolute reductions (-13 mmHg vs -12 mmHg, p = 0.808, and -13 mmHg vs -8 mmHg, p = 0.273, respectively) or nocturnal percentage decrease (-9.9% vs -9.4%, p = 0.844, and -15.3% vs -11.7%, p = 0.399, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: The study found no significant changes in the post-exercise nocturnal blood pressure dip following a single dose of CM supplementation. However, a notable reduction in diastolic blood pressure was observed during the waking period and over the average 24-h monitoring period. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY NUMBER AND WEBSITE: ClinicalTrials.gov platform (NCT03378596).

Hipertensión arterial nocturna: análisis según su gravedad / Nocturnal Hypertension: Analysis According to its Severity

RESUMEN Introducción: En el diagnóstico y seguimiento de la hipertensión arterial (HTA) la mayoría de las guías de práctica recomiendan el monitoreo ambulatorio de la presión arterial (MAPA). En este sentido, existe cada vez más evidencia que respalda la superioridad de la hipertensión arterial nocturna (HTAN) como predictor de eventos cardiovasculares. Se sabe poco sobre la relación con los eventos cardiovasculares según la gravedad de la HTAN. Además, no está claro a partir de qué valor de presión arterial nocturna comienza a aumentar el riesgo. Objetivos: Conocer si la presencia de HTAN y sus niveles de gravedad se asocian con resultados cardiovasculares adversos durante el seguimiento. Material y métodos: Estudio observacional. Realizamos un análisis de los datos obtenidos en un centro médico de alta complejidad de Buenos Aires, recopilados a partir de estudios de MAPA de 24 horas. Examinamos las características clínicas de los pacientes, los resultados de laboratorio, los estudios de imagen y sus resultados durante el período de seguimiento. Nuestro estudio incluyó personas de 18 años o más a las que se les había diagnosticado hipertensión. Definimos HTAN como aquellos casos con valores de presión arterial ≥ 120/70 mmHg durante el periodo nocturno. Resultados: Fueron incluidos 981 pacientes en el análisis final. De ellos, el 53 % eran hombres; la edad media era de 59,4 años. Presentaban HTAN 63,6 % (n=624). Clasificamos la HTAN en cuatro estratos de gravedad para comparar, según el valor de presión arterial sistólica nocturna: 83-119 mmHg, 120-139 mmHg, 140-159 mmHg y 160-220 mmHg. Se registraron eventos adversos cardiovasculares mayores en 8 (2,2 %), 17 (4,1 %), 8 (5,6 %) y 7 (11,3 %) sujetos, respectivamente, y esta diferencia entre grupos fue estadísticamente significativa (p=0,007). El análisis multivariado de regresión de Cox demostró que la presencia de HTAN fue un predictor independiente de eventos cardiovasculares adversos (HR 3,60; IC 95% 1,12-11,5; p=0,033), incluso al considerar la presencia de hipertensión arterial diurna. Conclusión: En esta cohorte contemporánea, la HTAN y su gravedad se asociaron independientemente con la incidencia de eventos cardiovasculares adversos.

ABSTRACT Background: In the diagnosis and follow-up of arterial hypertension (HTN) most practice guidelines recommend ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM). In this regard, there is increasing evidence supporting the superiority of nocturnal hy pertension (NHTN) as a predictor of cardiovascular events. Little is known about the relationship with cardiovascular events according to the severity of NHTN. Furthermore, it is unclear from what nighttime pressure value the risk begins to increase. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine whether the presence of NHTN and its severity levels are associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes during follow-up. Methods: An observational study was performed analyzing data collected from 24-hour ABPM studies obtained in a high complexity medical center in Buenos Aires. We examined patients' clinical characteristics, laboratory findings, imaging studies and their results during the follow-up period. Our study included ≥18 year-old persons who had been diagnosed with hypertension. We defined NHTN as those cases with blood pressure values ≥120/70 mmHg during the nighttime period. Results: The final analysis included 981 patients. Among these, 53% were men, mean age was 59.4 years and NHTN was present in 63.6% of cases (n=624). Nocturnal HTN was classified into four severity strata for comparison, according to the nighttime systolic blood pressure value: 83-119 mmHg, 120-139 mmHg, 140-159 mmHg and 160-220 mmHg. Major adverse cardiovascular events were recorded in 8 (2.2%), 17 (4.1 %), 8 (5.6%) and 7 (11.3%) subjects, respectively, and this differ ence between groups was statistically significant (p=0.007). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that the presence of NHTN was an independent predictor of adverse cardiovascular events (HR 3.60; 95% CI 1.12-11.5; p=0.033), even when considering the presence of daytime hypertension. Conclusion: In this contemporary cohort, NHTN and its severity were independently associated with the incidence of adverse cardiovascular events.

Association between chronic kidney disease stages and changes in ambulatory blood pressure monitoring parameters / Associação entre estágios da doença renal crônica e alterações dos parâmetros da monitorização ambulatorial da pressão arterial

Abstract Introduction: Blood pressure (BP) assessment affects the management of arterial hypertension (AH) in chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD patients have specific patterns of BP behavior during ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM). Objectives: The aim of the current study was to evaluate the associations between progressive stages of CKD and changes in ABPM. Methodology: This is a cross-sectional study with 851 patients treated in outpatient clinics of a university hospital who underwent ABPM examination from January 2004 to February 2012 in order to assess the presence and control of AH. The outcomes considered were the ABPM parameters. The variable of interest was CKD staging. Confounding factors included age, sex, body mass index, smoking, cause of CKD, and use of antihypertensive drugs. Results: Systolic BP (SBP) was associated with CKD stages 3b and 5, irrespective of confounding variables. Pulse pressure was only associated with stage 5. The SBP coefficient of variation was progressively associated with stages 3a, 4 and 5, while the diastolic blood pressure (DBP) coefficient of variation showed no association. SBP reduction was associated with stages 2, 4 and 5, and the decline in DBP with stages 4 and 5. Other ABPM parameters showed no association with CKD stages after adjustments. Conclusion: Advanced stages of CKD were associated with lower nocturnal dipping and greater variability in blood pressure.

Resumo Introdução: A avaliação da pressão arterial (PA) tem impacto no manejo da hipertensão arterial (HA) na doença renal crônica (DRC). O portador de DRC apresenta padrão específico de comportamento da PA ao longo da monitorização ambulatorial da pressão arterial (MAPA). Objetivos: O objetivo do corrente estudo é avaliar as associações entre os estágios progressivos da DRC e alterações da MAPA. Metodologia: Trata-se de um estudo transversal com 851 pacientes atendidos nos ambulatórios de um hospital universitário que foram submetidos ao exame de MAPA no período de janeiro de 2004 a fevereiro de 2012 para avaliar a presença e o controle da HA. Os desfechos considerados foram os parâmetros de MAPA. A variável de interesse foi o estadiamento da DRC. Foram considerados como fatores de confusão idade, sexo, índice de massa corporal, tabagismo, causa da DRC e uso de anti-hipertensivos. Resultados: A PA sistólica (PAS) se associou aos estágios 3b e 5 da DRC, independentemente das variáveis de confusão. Pressão de pulso se associou apenas ao estágio 5. O coeficiente de variação da PAS se associou progressivamente aos estágios 3a, 4 e 5, enquanto o coeficiente de variação da pressão arterial diastólica (PAD) não demonstrou associação. O descenso da PAS obteve associação com estágios 2, 4 e 5, e o descenso da PAD, com os 4 e 5. Demais parâmetros da MAPA não obtiveram associação com os estágios da DRC após os ajustes. Conclusão: Estágios mais avançados da DRC associaram-se a menor descenso noturno e a maior variabilidade da pressão arterial.

Análise Comparativa do ECG com o Holter na avaliação da Frequência Cardíaca na Insuficiência Cardíaca com Fração de Ejeção Reduzida e Ritmo Sinusal / Comparative Analysis of ECG and Holter Monitoring in the Assessment of Heart Rate in Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction and Sinus Rhythm

Resumo Fundamento A frequência cardíaca (FC) na insuficiência cardíaca com fração de ejeção reduzida (ICFEr) e ritmo sinusal apresenta valor prognóstico. Entretanto, o método de mensuração é debatido na literatura. Objetivos Comparar em pacientes com ICFEr e ritmo sinusal a FC no Holter com três eletrocardiogramas de repouso: ECG1, ECG2 e ECG3. Metodologia Estudo transversal com 135 pacientes portadores de insuficiência cardíaca com fração de ejeção ≤ 40% e ritmo sinusal. A FC foi avaliada por ECG e Holter. Análises incluíram o coeficiente de correlação intraclasse (CCI), regressão robusta, raiz do erro quadrático médio, Bland-Altman e a área sobre a curva ROC. Adotou-se nível de significância de 0,05 e o ajuste de Bonferroni-Holm para minimizar erros tipo I. Resultados As medianas [intervalo interquartil] de idade e fração de ejeção foram de 65 anos [16] e 30% [11], respectivamente. O CCI dos 3 ECG foi de 0,922 (intervalo de confiança de 95%: 0,892; 0,942). Os coeficientes de regressão robusta para ECG1 e ECG3 foram 0,20 (intervalo de confiança de 95%: 0,12; 0,29) e 0,21 (intervalo de confiança de 95%: 0,06; 0,36). O R2 robusto foi de 0,711 (intervalo de confiança de 95%: 0,628; 0,76). Na análise de concordância de Bland-Altman, os limites de concordância foram de −17,0 (intervalo de confiança de 95%: −19,0; −15,0) e 32,0 (intervalo de confiança de 95%: 30,0; 34,0). A área sob a curva ROC foi de 0,896 (intervalo de confiança de 95%: 0,865; 0,923). Conclusão A FC do ECG mostrou alta concordância com a FC do Holter, validando seu uso clínico em pacientes com ICFEr e ritmo sinusal. Contudo, a concordância foi subótima em um terço dos pacientes com FC inferior a 70 bpm pelo ECG, devendo ser considerada a realização de Holter neste contexto.

Abstract Background Heart rate (HR) has shown prognostic value in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and sinus rhythm. However, the method of measurement is debated in the literature. Objectives To compare HR on Holter with 3 resting electrocardiograms (ECG1, ECG2, and ECG3) in patients with HFrEF and sinus rhythm. Methods This was a cross-sectional study with 135 patients with heart failure with ejection fraction ≤ 40% and sinus rhythm. HR was assessed by ECG and Holter. Analyses included intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), robust regression, root mean squared error, Bland-Altman, and area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. A significance level of 0.05 and Bonferroni-Holm adjustment were adopted to minimize type I errors. Results The median [interquartile range] age and ejection fraction were 65 years [16] and 30% [11], respectively. The ICC of the 3 ECGs was 0.922 (95% confidence interval: 0.892; 0.942). The robust regression coefficients for ECG1 and ECG3 were 0.20 (95% confidence interval: 0.12; 0.29) and 0.21 (95% confidence interval: 0.06; 0.36). The robust R2 was 0.711 (95% confidence interval: 0.628; 0.76). In the Bland-Altman agreement analysis, the limits of agreement were −17.0 (95% confidence interval: −19.0; −15.0) and 32.0 (95% confidence interval: 30.0; 34.0). The area under the ROC curve was 0.896 (95% confidence interval: 0.865; 0.923). Conclusion The HR on ECG showed high agreement with the HR on Holter, validating its clinical use in patients with HFrEF and sinus rhythm. However, agreement was suboptimal in one third of patients with HR below 70 bpm on ECG; thus, 24-hour Holter monitoring should be considered in this context.

Potentially avoidable hospitalizations and associated factors among older people in French Guiana using the French National Health Data System.

Knowing the prevalence of potentially avoidable hospitalizations (PAHs) and the factors associated with them is essential if preventive action is to be taken. Studies on PAHs mainly concern adults, and very few have been carried out in South America. To the best of our knowledge, there has been no study on PAHs in French Guiana, particularly among older adults. This case-control study aimed to estimate the prevalence of PAHs in the Guianese population aged over 65 and to analyze their associated factors. We used the 2017-2019 data from the French National Health Service database (Système National des Données de Santé). The patients were age- and sex-matched 1 : 3 with controls without any PAH in 2019. Factors associated with PAHs were investigated through two conditional logistic regression models [one including the Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) and one including each comorbidity of the CCI], with calculation of the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). The PAH incidence was 17.4 per 1000 inhabitants. PAHs represented 6.6% of all hospitalizations (45.6% related to congestive heart failure or hypertension). A higher CCI was associated with PAHs [aOR 2.2 (95% CI: 1.6, 3.0) and aOR 4.8 (95% CI: 2.4, 9.9) for 1-2 and ≥3 comorbidities, respectively, versus 0], as was immigrant health insurance status [aOR 2.3 (95% CI: 1.3, 4.2)]. Connective tissue disease, chronic pulmonary disease, congestive heart failure, diabetes, and peripheral vascular disease were comorbidities associated with an increased risk of PAHs. While the prevention of PAHs among immigrants is probably beyond the reach of the Guianese authorities, primary care and a public health policy geared toward prevention should be put in place for the French Guianese population suffering from cardiovascular disease in order to reduce PAHs.

Time in therapeutic range and risk of preeclampsia in chronic hypertensive pregnant women.

Pregnancy Hypertensive Disorders (PHD), particularly Preeclampsia (PE), are significant contributors to maternal-fetal morbidity and mortality, with chronic arterial hypertension (CH) being a major risk factor. The prevalence of CH has risen alongside obesity and advanced maternal age. While antihypertensive treatment mitigates adverse pregnancy outcomes, the duration of effective blood pressure (BP) control, termed Time in Therapeutic Range (TTR), has not been extensively studied in pregnant women. TTR, reflecting the proportion of time BP remains within target ranges, predicts long-term cardiovascular and renal events in the general population but remains unexplored in pregnancy. This study investigates the association between TTR, assessed through office BP (OBP) and ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM), and PE development in pregnant women with CH. In a retrospective longitudinal study, data from 166 pregnant women with HA referred to our hospital analyzed. BP was measured using OBP and ABPM from 10 weeks of gestation, with TTR calculated as the percentage of visits where BP remained within target ranges. The study defined four TTR control groups: 0%, 33%, 50-66%, and 100%. Results showed that 28% of the participants developed PE, with a higher incidence correlating with lower TTR in ABPM. TTR in ABPM was a significant predictor of PE risk, with the best-controlled group (100% TTR) demonstrating a 92% reduced risk compared to those with 0% TTR. The agreement between OBP and ABPM TTR was low, emphasizing the importance of ABPM for accurate BP monitoring in pregnancy. This study indicates that integrating ABPM for TTR assessment in high-risk pregnancies has the potential to reduce maternal and fetal complications.

Direct healthcare costs for people with cerebral palsy in the Brazilian unified health system between 2015 and 2019.

BACKGROUND: Estimate the costs of inpatient and outpatient care for people with Cerebral Palsy (CP) in Brazil. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: Health records of people with CP in the Hospital and Outpatient Information Systems of Brazil between 2015 and 2019 were analyzed. Variables analyzed were gender, age, ICD, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) use, total cost, and ICU cost. Costs were adjusted for inflation and converted to dollars. Linear regression analysis was performed to investigate the association between social and clinical variables and direct costs. RESULTS: A total direct cost of approximately $166 million to the National Health System was identified, with $7.08 million/year and $26.1 million/year of inpatient and outpatient costs, respectively. The healthcare was primarily for children up to 14 years of age. The ICD 'spastic quadriplegic CP' received the most attendance. Rehabilitation was responsible for 75% of the outpatient care, with physiotherapy standing out. Increased age, use of ICU, and the types of CP are related to increased cost. CONCLUSIONS: Healthcare for people with CP produced expressive costs for the Brazilian public health system, mainly with outpatient procedures and rehabilitation, with children being the most attended. Estimating these costs assist in better resource allocation for more effective healthcare provision.

Development of Automated Triggers in Ambulatory Settings in Brazil: Protocol for a Machine Learning-Based Design Thinking Study.

BACKGROUND: The use of technologies has had a significant impact on patient safety and the quality of care and has increased globally. In the literature, it has been reported that people die annually due to adverse events (AEs), and various methods exist for investigating and measuring AEs. However, some methods have a limited scope, data extraction, and the need for data standardization. In Brazil, there are few studies on the application of trigger tools, and this study is the first to create automated triggers in ambulatory care. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to develop a machine learning (ML)-based automated trigger for outpatient health care settings in Brazil. METHODS: A mixed methods research will be conducted within a design thinking framework and the principles will be applied in creating the automated triggers, following the stages of (1) empathize and define the problem, involving observations and inquiries to comprehend both the user and the challenge at hand; (2) ideation, where various solutions to the problem are generated; (3) prototyping, involving the construction of a minimal representation of the best solutions; (4) testing, where user feedback is obtained to refine the solution; and (5) implementation, where the refined solution is tested, changes are assessed, and scaling is considered. Furthermore, ML methods will be adopted to develop automated triggers, tailored to the local context in collaboration with an expert in the field. RESULTS: This protocol describes a research study in its preliminary stages, prior to any data gathering and analysis. The study was approved by the members of the organizations within the institution in January 2024 and by the ethics board of the University of São Paulo and the institution where the study will take place. in May 2024. As of June 2024, stage 1 commenced with data gathering for qualitative research. A separate paper focused on explaining the method of ML will be considered after the outcomes of stages 1 and 2 in this study. CONCLUSIONS: After the development of automated triggers in the outpatient setting, it will be possible to prevent and identify potential risks of AEs more promptly, providing valuable information. This technological innovation not only promotes advances in clinical practice but also contributes to the dissemination of techniques and knowledge related to patient safety. Additionally, health care professionals can adopt evidence-based preventive measures, reducing costs associated with AEs and hospital readmissions, enhancing productivity in outpatient care, and contributing to the safety, quality, and effectiveness of care provided. Additionally, in the future, if the outcome is successful, there is the potential to apply it in all units, as planned by the institutional organization. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): PRR1-10.2196/55466.

Barriers and facilitators to tuberculosis diagnosis in Lima, Peru: a mixed methods study.

BACKGROUND: Tuberculosis (TB) infectiousness decreases significantly with only a few days of treatment, but delayed diagnosis often leads to late treatment initiation. We conducted a sequential explanatory mixed methods study to understand the barriers and facilitators to prompt diagnosis among people with TB. METHODS: We enrolled 100 adults who started TB treatment in the Carabayllo district of Lima, Peru, between November 2020 and February 2022 and administered a survey about their symptoms and healthcare encounters. We calculated total diagnostic delay as time from symptom onset to diagnosis. We conducted semi-structured interviews of 26 participants who had a range of delays investigating their experience navigating the health system. Interview transcripts were inductively coded for concepts related to diagnostic barriers and facilitators. RESULTS: Overall, 38% of participants sought care first from public facilities and 42% from the private sector. Only 14% reported being diagnosed with TB on their first visit, and participants visited a median of 3 (interquartile range [IQR] health facilities before diagnosis. The median total diagnostic delay was 9 weeks (interquartile range [IQR] 4-22), with a median of 4 weeks (IQR 0-9) before contact with the health system and of 3 weeks (IQR 0-9) after. Barriers to prompt diagnosis included participants attributing their symptoms to an alternative cause or having misconceptions about TB, and leading them to postpone seeking care. Once connected to care, variations in clinical management, health facility resource limitations, and lack of formal referral processes contributed to the need for multiple healthcare visits before obtaining a diagnosis. Facilitators to prompt diagnosis included knowing someone with TB, supportive friends and family, referral documents, and seeing a pulmonologist. CONCLUSIONS: Misinformation about TB among people with TB and providers, poor accessibility of health services, and the need for multiple encounters to obtain diagnostic tests were major factors leading to delays. Extending the hours of operation of public health facilities, improving community awareness and provider training, and creating a formal referral process between the public and private sectors should be priorities in the efforts to combat TB.

Resident pharmacist participation in shared medical appointments in palliative care in São Paulo, Brazil: experience and contributions.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the resident pharmacist's participation in Shared Medical Appointments (SMA) in palliative care. METHODS: The resident pharmacist participated in face-to-face SMA with the attending physician, medical and gerontology students, and a nurse. KEY FINDINGS: The resident pharmacist supported interdisciplinary discussions and performed pharmaceutical interventions. He helped raise awareness about the effective, safe, and convenient use of medicines, helping improve the quality of life of patients and caregivers. CONCLUSIONS: Providing pharmaceutical care to patients in palliative care helped to improve the quality of clinical services offered to these patients, as well as adding value to resident pharmacists' interprofessional practice.

'Uma parte de mim sabia que isso aconteceria um dia': vivências de jovens com HIV/aids / 'A part of me knew this would happen one day': experiences of young people with HIV/ AIDS

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo foi compreender as representações sociais de jovens que vivem com o HIV. Estudo qualitativo, ancorado na Teoria das Representações Sociais, realizado com 16 jovens em acompanhamento ambulatorial. Os dados foram coletados entre maio e outubro de 2022, por meio de entrevista semiestruturada. Para o tratamento dos dados, empregou-se a técnica de análise lexical, operacionalizada com o auxílio do software Iramuteq. A representação fortemente associada ao diagnóstico de HIV está relacionada ao desconhecimento, preconceito e aceitação, apresentando, também, elementos positivos como recomeço. Classes: Diagnóstico positivo para o HIV: o 'eu' de agora; HIV em face do desconhecimento e do estigma; e Relações interpessoais: diálogo, acolhimento e respeito necessários aos jovens. Compreendeu-se que as representações sociais dos jovens com HIV refletem a sua condição na sociedade. Os dados deste estudo mostram que existem formas distintas de vivenciar o HIV, muitas vezes representadas pela fragilidade, pela resignação, e outras, pelo fortalecimento. A fim de minimizar a vulnerabilidade do jovem à exposição ao HIV e aos riscos de conviver com o estigma e preconceito social, fazem-se necessárias a adoção de estratégias de conscientização da sociedade sobre a doença e a ampliação da divulgação de políticas públicas que abarcam essa temática.

ABSTRACT This study was aimed at understanding the social representations of young people living with HIV. This is a qualitative study, based on the Social Representations Theory, carried out with 16 young people in outpatient follow-up. Data were collected between May and October 2022, through semi-structured interviews. For data processing, the lexical analysis technique was used, operationalized with the aid of the IRAMUTEQ software. The representation strongly associated with the diagnosis of HIV is related to lack of knowledge, prejudice and acceptance, also presenting positive elements such as a new beginning. Classes: Positive diagnosis for HIV: the new 'me'; HIV in the face of ignorance and stigma; and Interpersonal relationships: dialogue, acceptance and respect necessary for young people. It was understood that the social representations of young people with HIV reflect their condition in society. The data show that there are different ways of experiencing HIV, often represented by fragility, resignation, and other times by strengthening. In order to minimize the vulnerability of young people to exposure to HIV and the risks of living with stigma and social prejudice, it is necessary to adopt strategies to raise awareness about the disease and to expand the dissemination of public policies that cover this topic.

Assessment of the implementation of pharmacist prescribing: Challenges and pathways for ambulatory practice.

BACKGROUND: Prescribing by pharmacists is an increasingly common practice worldwide. In Brazil regulation of this practice began in 2013, and the practice remains unexplored as a research topic. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to explore and gain insights into pharmacist prescribing practices in Brazil and assessing pharmacist's perceptions of their training and preparedness to prescribe medications. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between October 2022 and March 2023 via convenience sampling. Data were collected using an online questionnaire covering sociodemographic issues, academic training, prescribing practices, and perceptions regarding the provision of pharmacist prescribing in ambulatory care. Exploratory descriptive analysis and Poisson regression were performed to estimate the associations between pharmacist characteristics and their practices in prescribing medicines. RESULTS: Among the 305 valid responses, 58.7% of the outpatient pharmacists stated that they had not prescribed any medication in the previous three years. Over-the-counter medication prescriptions were most common (42.0%). Only 4.6% of respondents had prescribed prescription-only medicines provided through collaborative agreement, with 2.6% reporting that they had adjusted doses, and 2.3% played a role in prescription renewal. Pharmacists living in Northeast regions tended to be more active prescribers (PR = 1.42; 95%CI 1.03-2.18), whereas those in primary healthcare (PR = 0.61; 95%CI 0.39-0.96) and self-declared Black pharmacists (PR = 0.30; 95%CI 0.10-0.97) prescribed less. Respondents strongly believed in the pharmacist's role as a prescriber, although they remained ambivalent regarding their responsibility for patient outcomes. Progress barriers include infrastructure gaps and strained relationships with physicians. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that pharmacists in Brazil predominantly prescribe over-the-counter medications, and variations in setting, region, and race can influence prescribing by pharmacist in ambulatory care.

[Consequence of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy (THE) on women's cardiovascular health]. / Consecuencia de los trastornos hipertensivos durante el embarazo (THE) sobre la salud cardiovascular de la mujer.

Patients with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are at increased risk of maternal-fetal complications and represent the third leading cause of maternal mortality. To date, it is known that women experiencing this condition during pregnancy have a higher future risk of cardiovascular events (CVD). Our objective was to report the incidence of new-onset hypertension in the postpartum period. We conducted a cohort study in high-risk pregnant patients who underwent ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) between weeks 20-30. Patients were categorized as normotensive (NT) or gestational hypertensive (GH), excluding those with chronic hypertension, and were followed until the end of pregnancy with a postpartum assessment after 3months. Patients with HDP (39%) had a higher incidence of preeclampsia and newborns with low birth weight and preterm birth. A total of 177 pregnant women were analyzed for the primary outcome. Among those with GH, 33.3% vs 17.2% of NT (P=.014) reported new-onset hypertension. The odds ratio for developing new-onset hypertension was 2.3 (95%CI: 1.20-4.77), for those with GH. In conclusion, pregnant patients with GH assessed by ABPM between 20-30weeks are at higher risk of developing new-onset hypertension in the postpartum period, emphasizing the need for closer monitoring and control to prevent future cardiovascular complications.

Partial-Cost Analysis and Economic Impact of Ambulatory Coronary Angioplasty in a Private Hospital in the Caribbean: Análisis Parcial de Costos e Impacto Económico de la Angioplastia Coronaria Ambulatoria en un Hospital Privado del Caribe.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess direct costs of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) without hospital admission versus PCI with hospital admission longer than 24 hours in a private hospital-institutional perspective in the Dominican Republic in 2022. METHODS: This study has a comparative approach based on a prospective cross-sectional partial-cost analysis. We evaluated the direct costs of 10 patients from PCI without hospital admission approach and 10 patients from a hospital admission longer than 24 hours as a control group. We used a "first-come-first-served" approach from December 2021 to March 2022. The analysis used the electronic invoice generated for each patient. RESULTS: PCI without hospital admission approach represents $472.56 in patient savings, equivalent to a cost reduction of 12.5%. The subcosts analysis showed the pharmacy section as the main driver of the overall cost difference. CONCLUSIONS: PCI without hospital admission was economically cost-saving compared with the control approach in direct costs in the Dominican perspective. The economic benefit is substantial and compliments the ease of use. This analysis may lead to improvements in institutional management of resources and can potentially be adapted to other health systems in the region.

Comparison of clinical outcomes of venous thromboembolic disease between outpatient and inpatient management.

Objectives: To compare the occurrence of death, bleeding, and recurrence according to inpatient or outpatient management of venous thromboembolic disease (VTE). Materials and methods: . Retrospective cohort that included a consecutive sampling of VTE consultations between 2016 and 2019 diagnosed in the Emergency Center of a private hospital in Argentina. Results: There were 1202 cases, 908 with isolated deep vein thrombosis (DVT), 205 with isolated pulmonary embolism (PE), and 89 cases of combined DVT - PE. 66% were women, with a median age of 77 years; 72% of cases were managed on an outpatient basis (n= 862). Comorbidities associated with hospitalization were obesity (p=0.03), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (p=0.01), heart failure (CHF) (p=0.01), chronic renal failure (CKD) (p=0.01), and cancer (p=0.01). At 90 days, the cumulative incidence of bleeding was 2.6% in inpatient compared to 2.9% in outpatient management (p=0.81); recurrence was 0% versus 0.9% (p=0.07), and mortality was 42.9% versus 18.9%, respectively (p=0.01). The HR for 90-day mortality in hospitalized patients adjusted for confounders (sex, age, type of VTE, obesity, CKD, CHF, COPD, and cancer) was 1.99 (95% CI 1.49-2.64; p=0.01). Conclusions: In this elderly, and predominantly female Argentine population, the 90-day mortality in patients hospitalized for VTE was higher than mortality in patients with outpatient management, without differences in recurrence or major bleeding.

Autoeficacia en usuarios de servicios hospitalarios ambulatorios / Self-efficacy in users of ambulatory hospital services

RESUMEN Autoeficacia es una variable mediadora del cambio conductual en intervenciones psicosociales para el manejo de problemas de salud. Objetivo: Determinar el nivel de autoeficacia en la población atendida en hospitales generales y centros de salud de Lima Metropolitana y su relación con problemas mentales comunes y diagnósticos clínicos prevalentes. Material y métodos: Estudio de datos secundarios procedentes del Estudio Epidemiológico de Salud Mental en Hospitales Generales y Centros de Salud en Lima-2015. Se estudió la Escala de Autoeficacia General (EAG) de Schwarzer y Jerusalem y su relación con variables sociodemográficas, especialidades médicas, diagnósticos clínicos frecuentes, y ansiedad, depresión y abuso/dependencia del alcohol. Para el tratamiento de los datos se utilizó estadística descriptiva e inferencial mediante pruebas de independencia de medias y de correlación. Resultados: El puntaje promedio de la EAG fue 30,89+6,29 y menor en los usuarios de las especialidades de medicina general, psiquiatría y neurología, y en el servicio de psicología. La autoeficacia se relacionó inversamente con la presencia de depresión y ansiedad, y no con abuso/dependencia de alcohol. En los seis diagnósticos clínicos más frecuentes el puntaje EAG, no fue diferente al mostrado por todos los encuestados, excepto en VIH. Conclusiones: La autoeficacia varía según las condiciones sociodemográficas; el promedio de la escala de autoeficacia en la población hospitalaria es menor al reportado en la población general, y es menor en depresión y ansiedad en general que en otras patologías clínicas. Se destaca la conveniencia de intervenciones para fortalecer la autoeficacia de los atendidos en el proceso de tratamiento.

SUMMARY Self-efficacy is a mediating variable of behavioral change in psychosocial interventions for the management of health problems. Objective: To determine the level of self-efficacy in users of general hospitals and peripheral health care centers in Lima and to evaluate its relationship with prevalent mental problems. Methods: Secondary data analysis was carried out from the epidemiologic study of mental health in general hospitals and peripheral health care centers conducted in Lima in 2015. The Schwarzer y Jerusalem's scale of general self-efficiency (GSE) was used and correlated with socio-demographics and common clinical diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, and alcohol abuse. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used. Results: The mean GSE was 30.89 ± 6,29; it was lower in patients attending medical specialties, psychiatry, neurology, and psychology. The self-efficiency inversely correlated with depression and anxiety but not with alcohol abuse. GSE values on patients having the six most common diagnoses were not different but in patients with HIV. Conclusions: Sel-efficacy varies according to socioeconomic status. The mean GSE is lower than reported in the general population and is lowest in patients with anxiety and depression. We reinforce the need to implement interventions to enhance self-efficacy among patients attending the health care system in Lima.

Los servicios de odontología en los tiempos del COVID- 19 en Colombia: análisis de país / Oral and dental services in times of COVID-19 in Colombia: a national analysis

Se desconoce el impacto que produjo la pandemia por el COVID-19 en la prestación y en la consulta de los servicios odontológicos y analizados según el sistema integrado de protección social o SISPRO en Colombia. El objetivo fue Determinar los cambios en la cobertura y los patrones de atención odontológica, entre los años pre pandemia (2017-2019) y los años de pandemia (2020-2021). Se analizaron los registros de las atenciones odontológicas reportadas en el sistema SISPRO del Ministerio de Salud de Colombia en periodos prepandemia y postpandemia por el COVID-19. En el año 2019 la tasa de cobertura por cada 100 habitantes en el estudio era de 31,14; sin embargo, la cobertura de atención odontológica se redujo al 17% en el 2020 y al 9% en el 2021 y las atenciones de urgencias disminuyeron drásticamente en los años 2020 y en el 2021. Se requiere que los tomadores de decisión promuevan los servicios de odontología para recuperar los niveles de cobertura previos a la pandemia. Se identificó una disminución en la cobertura odontológica asociada a la pandemia de la COVID-19 en los años 2020 y 2021 y desconocen cuales son los posibles efectos en la morbilidad bucal de los Colombianos.

Introduction. The COVID-19 pandemic affected Colombian dental services from March 2019 to now, but its magnitude is unknown. Objective. To determine dental care coverage in Colombia during the pandemic period and compare these data with the pre-pandemic period 2017-2019. Methods. Dental coverage and consultation services registered in the "Sistema Integrado de Protección Social" or SISPRO from 2017 to 2021 were analyzed. Results. The whole dental service coverage rate was nearly 20% before Covid-19 pandemic and even registered a slight increase from 2017 to 2018 at national and at department levels. This dental national coverage was 31,14% for every 100 habitants in 2019. However, there was a sharp reduction to 17% in 2020 and to 9% in 2021, revealing a clear and negative impact of the pandemic in dental coverage services and in dental emergency services. Conclusion. A decrease in dental coverage during to the COVID-19 pandemic is revealed, with a concomitant reduction in dental emergency consultations during 2020 and 2021 at country level. The consequences of this disruption on the oral and dental epidemiological profile of Colombians is still unknown and might require urgent preventive, promotional and curative care actions to recover the pre-pandemic dental coverage levels.