Systematic review on the implementation of metrological assurance systems for medical devices in Latin America.

Background: Metrology plays a crucial role in small healthcare service businesses to ensure the quality of products and services. While legal metrology in healthcare exists in some regions, it lacks harmonization. In other countries, there is limited presence of metrology in medical and biomedical engineering. We aimed to evaluate the implementation of metrological assurance systems for medical devices in Latin America. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines and registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022359284). Searches were performed across 13 databases from October 30th to November 3rd, 2022. The search equation was "(((quality assurance) AND (metrology)) AND (medical devices))." A total of 7,789 documents were identified, of which only 16 met the inclusion criteria. Results: The majority of studies (75%) were conducted in Colombia, with a significant portion being undergraduate theses. The primary normative references used in the analyzed studies were ISO 10012 and ISO 17025, with the majority (68.75%) relying on national legislation for their approach. One study in Colombia referenced eight standards, and one in Brazil analyzed user involvement in medical device management. Among the included studies, 56.25% were conducted in healthcare institutions, mainly clinics. Most studies provided implementation guidelines, with ISO 10012 being prominent, alongside ISO 17025, which implicitly addresses ISO 9001 elements. Global bias was low across all studies. Conclusion: Our results underscore the importance of metrological assurance in managing medical devices in Latin America. The utilization of international standards and national legislation illustrates the diverse approaches adopted by different institutions. Future research should focus on optimizing metrological practices to enhance quality and safety in healthcare.

Methodological quality and clinical recommendations of guidelines on the management of dyslipidaemias for cardiovascular disease risk reduction: a systematic review and an appraisal through AGREE II and AGREE REX tools.

BACKGROUND: Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) are statements to assist practitioners and stakeholders in decisions about healthcare. Low methodological quality guidelines may prejudice decision-making and negatively affect clinical outcomes in non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases worsted by poor lipid management. We appraised the quality of CPGs on dyslipidemia management and synthesized the most updated pharmacological recommendations. METHODS: A systematic review following international recommendations was performed. Searches to retrieve CPG on pharmacological treatments in adults with dyslipidaemia were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Trip databases. Eligible articles were assessed using AGREE II (methodological quality) and AGREE-REX (recommendation excellence) tools. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize data. The most updated guidelines (published after 2019) had their recommendations qualitatively synthesized in an exploratory analysis. RESULTS: Overall, 66 guidelines authored by professional societies (75%) and targeting clinicians as primary users were selected. The AGREE II domains Scope and Purpose (89%) and Clarity of Presentation (97%), and the AGREE-REX item Clinical Applicability (77.0%) obtained the highest values. Conversely, guidelines were methodologically poorly performed/documented (46%) and scarcely provided data on the implementability of practical recommendations (38%). Recommendations on pharmacological treatments are overall similar, with slight differences concerning the use of supplements and the availability of drugs. CONCLUSION: High-quality dyslipidaemia CPG, especially outside North America and Europe, and strictly addressing evidence synthesis, appraisal, and recommendations are needed, especially to guide primary care decisions. CPG developers should consider stakeholders' values and preferences and adapt existing statements to individual populations and healthcare systems to ensure successful implementation interventions.

Strategies for improving image quality in prostate MRI.

Prostate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) stands as the cornerstone in diagnosing prostate cancer (PCa), offering superior detection capabilities while minimizing unnecessary biopsies. Despite its critical role, global disparities in MRI diagnostic performance persist, stemming from variations in image quality and radiologist expertise. This manuscript reviews the challenges and strategies for enhancing image quality in prostate MRI, spanning patient preparation, MRI unit optimization, and radiology team engagement. Quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) processes are pivotal, emphasizing standardized protocols, meticulous patient evaluation, MRI unit workflow, and radiology team performance. Additionally, artificial intelligence (AI) advancements offer promising avenues for improving image quality and reducing acquisition times. The Prostate-Imaging Quality (PI-QUAL) scoring system emerges as a valuable tool for assessing MRI image quality. A comprehensive approach addressing technical, procedural, and interpretative aspects is essential to ensure consistent and reliable prostate MRI outcomes.

Validation of a modified QuEChERS method for the quantification of residues of currently used pesticides in Cuban agricultural soils, using gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.

We present an analytical method to detect and quantify residues of currently used pesticides (CUPs), which include 31 active ingredients (ai) and seven transformation products (TPs) in tropical and agricultural soils of Cuba. Ten isotopically labeled analogous compounds served as internal standards (IL-IS). The novelty of this research is the inclusion of different tropical soils type scarcely studied for CUPs and TPs, based on the QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe) method, followed by chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. All figures of merit proved to be satisfactory according to SANTE guidelines 2020 and 2021. Matrix effects (ME) calculated by the external standard method were significant (|ME| > 20% for almost all compounds; grand mean ± standard deviation (STD) 104 ± 108%) in all soils. The internal standard method compensated ME to non-significant levels (8 ± 50%), even for analytes with a non-structure identical IL-IS (STD, 13 ± 57%). Repeatability (relative standard deviation, RSDr) and reproducibility (RSDR) for skeletic regosol (SR) were 7.5 ± 2.8% and 11.7 ± 4.7%, respectively. Absolute (quantified for 11 analytes with structure identical IL-IS) and relative recovery from SR was 92 ± 13% (mean ± STD) and 90 ± 12%, respectively. Limits of quantification for SR ranged from 0.1 to 10 ng/g, except metalaxyl and oxyfluorfen (25 ng/g each). Linearity of matrix-matched (MM) calibration curves (5 to 100 ng/g) had an R2 of ≥ 0.99 for all soils and almost all analytes. The method was successfully applied to 30 real soil samples.

Clinical pharmacy key performance indicators for hospital inpatient setting: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Key performance indicators (KPIs) are quantifiable measures used to monitor the quality of health services. Implementation guidelines for clinical pharmacy services (CPS) do not specify KPIs. AIM: To assess the quality of the studies that have developed KPIs for CPS in inpatient hospital settings. METHOD: A systematic review was conducted by searching in Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed, supplemented with citation analyses and grey literature searches, to retrieve studies addressing the development of KPIs in CPS for hospital inpatients. Exclusions comprised drug- or disease-specific studies and those not written in English, French, Portuguese, or Spanish. The Appraisal of Indicators through Research and Evaluation (AIRE) instrument assessed methodological quality. Domain scores and an overall score were calculated using an equal-weight principle. KPIs were classified into structure, process, and outcome categories. The protocol is available at https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/KS2G3 . RESULTS: We included thirteen studies that collectively developed 225 KPIs. Merely five studies scored over 50% on the AIRE instrument, with domains #3 (scientific evidence) and #4 (formulation and usage) displaying low scores. Among the KPIs, 8.4% were classified as structure, 85.8% as process, and 5.8% as outcome indicators. The overall methodological quality did not exhibit a clear association with a major focus on outcomes. None of the studies provided benchmarking reference values. CONCLUSION: The KPIs formulated for evaluating CPS in hospital settings primarily comprised process measures, predominantly suggested by pharmacists, with inadequate evidence support, lacked piloting or validation, and consequently, were devoid of benchmarking reference values.

Why should Medical Societies increasingly attend to their Specialist Title exams and why should medical professionals obtain it? / Por que as Sociedades Médicas devem cada vez mais cuidar de suas provas de Título de Especialista e porque os profissionais médicos devem obtê-lo?

ABSTRACT Medical societies must maintain high standards of competence and quality when awarding specialist titles, defining the certification criteria, taking into account the needs and realities of the health system and medical practice.

RESUMO As Sociedades Médicas devem manter padrões elevados de competência e qualidade na concessão dos Títulos de Especialista, com definição dos critérios de certificação, considerando as necessidades e realidades do sistema de saúde e da prática médica.

Nurses' perspectives on nurses' work methods / Mirada de los enfermeros sobre los métodos de trabajo en enfermería / Olhar dos enfermeiros sobre os métodos de trabalho em enfermagem

ABSTRACT Objectives: To analyze nurses' perspectives on nurses' work methods in the hospital context. Methods: A descriptive study with a qualitative approach was conducted in a hospital in northern Portugal, involving 17 nurses. Semi-structured interviews were used for data collection. Data collected between May and June 2023 underwent content analysis, supported by Atlas.ti software. Results: Three thematic areas emerged: "Nurses' work methods in a hospital context," highlighting the conception and components of work methods and the methods in use; "Implementation of nurses' work methods," emphasizing influencing factors and challenges to implementation; and "Impact of nurses' work methods on patients, nurses, and institutions." Final Considerations: Nurses' work methods constitute the structure of nursing care. Some factors influence and some challenges arise in the implementation of these methods, producing impacts on patients, nurses, and institutions.

RESUMEN Objetivos: Analizar percepción de enfermeros sobre métodos de trabajo en enfermería en contexto hospitalario. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo con abordaje cualitativa, realizado en un hospital del norte de Portugal, con participación de 17 enfermeros. Como instrumento de recolecta de datos, recorrido a la entrevista semiestructurada. Datos recolectados entre mayo e junio de 2023, pasaron por análisis de contenido, con suporte del software Atlas.ti. Resultados: Emergieron tres áreas temáticas: "Métodos de trabajo de enfermeros en contexto hospitalario", destacándose la concepción y componentes de métodos de trabajo y en uso; "Implementación de métodos de trabajo", señalándose factores influenciadores y desafíos a la implementación; e "Impacto de métodos de trabajo de enfermeros para los pacientes, enfermeros e instituciones". Consideraciones Finales: Los métodos de trabajo constituidos como la estructura de asistencia de enfermería. Hay factores que influencian y desafíos que se quedan a la implementación de esos métodos, produciendo impacto en pacientes, enfermeros e instituciones.

RESUMO Objetivos: Analisar a percepção dos enfermeiros sobre os métodos de trabalho em enfermagem no contexto hospitalar. Métodos: Estudo descritivo com abordagem qualitativa, realizado num hospital do norte de Portugal, com participação de 17 enfermeiros. Como instrumento de coleta de dados, recorreu se à entrevista semiestruturada. Os dados, recolhidos entre maio e junho de 2023, passaram por análise de conteúdo, com suporte do software Atlas.ti. Resultados: Emergiram três áreas temáticas: "Métodos de trabalho dos enfermeiros em contexto hospitalar", destacando-se a concepção e componentes dos métodos de trabalho e os métodos em uso; "Implementação dos métodos de trabalho", salientando-se fatores influenciadores e desafios à implementação; e "Impacto dos métodos de trabalho dos enfermeiros para os pacientes, enfermeiros e instituições". Considerações Finais: Os métodos de trabalho constituem-se como a estrutura da assistência de enfermagem. Existem fatores que influenciam e desafios que se colocam à implementação desses métodos, produzindo impacto nos pacientes, enfermeiros e instituições.

Aseguramiento y control de la calidad de los datos en un estudio de cohorte en Colombia

Introducción: La calidad de los datos facilita garantizar la fiabilidad de los estudios observacionales. Objetivo: Describir el aseguramiento y el control de calidad para mantener la fiabilidad y la validez del dato en un estudio de cohorte. Métodos: Presentar el manejo de datos implementado dentro de un seguimiento de enfermos renales crónicos cuya exposición fue un programa de protección renal comparado con el tratamiento convencional y su asociación con desenlaces clínicos. Se evaluó el cambio en la frecuencia de errores después de implementar el plan y la reproducibilidad del ingreso de registros a las bases de datos. Resultados: Se documentó una disminución progresiva en los errores cometidos en la captación de datos. El valor de Kappa entre los recolectores de la información para las variables clínicas más importantes fue 0,960 para la depuración de creatinina 150 mg/dL; 0,730 para la alteración del sedimento urinario; 0,956 para la asignación de estadio al ingreso. Los coeficientes de correlación intraclase para la identificación de las cifras de presión arterial sistólica fue 0,996; para la de presión arterial diastólica 0,993 y para los niveles de creatinina sérica al diagnóstico 0,995. Discusión: La calidad de los datos comienza con el reconocimiento de los retos y dificultades que implica su responsable captación, de ahí el aporte de la estandarización de los procesos y el personal que los lleve a cabo en forma idónea. Estudios evidencian que muchos procesos de mejora surgen en el desarrollo de la investigación sin protocolos preestablecidos. Conclusión: La reducción en la proporción y el tipo de error durante el proceso de captación de datos se debe a su identificación temprana y la corrección de instructivos, del instrumento de control de diligenciamiento y de la capacitación continua del personal. El análisis mostró una buena concordancia interevaluador.

Introduction: Data quality makes it easier to ensure that observational studies are reliable. Objective: To describe assurance and quality control to maintain data reliability and validity in a cohort study. Methodology: We present the data management strategies implemented in a study that followed patients of chronic kidney disease who were in a renal protection program and compared them with those undergoing conventional treatment to observe its association with clinical outcomes. We assessed the changes in error frequency after implementing the plan along with the reproducibility of the strategies for entering records into the databases. Results: We documented a progressive decrease of data collection errors. The Kappa values among data collectors for the most important variables were: 0.960 for creatinine clearance 150 mg/dl; 0.730 for urinary sediment alteration and 0.956 for stage allocation upon admission. The intraclass correlation coefficient for the identification of systolic blood pressure was 0.996; for diastolic blood pressure, the coefficient was 0.993 and for serum creatinine levels at diagnosis, the value was 0.995. Discussion: Data quality begins with the recognition of the challenges and difficulties involved in responsible data collection, hence the contribution of standardized processes and personnel to carry them out in a suitable manner. Studies show that many improvement processes arise in the development of research without pre-established protocols. Conclusion: The reduction in error ratio and type during the data collection process are the result of the early identification of erroneously entered or missing data, the correction of the guidelines for completing forms as well as of the instruments for detecting errors and continuous training of the staff. The analysis showed good inter-rater reliability.

Software for animal randomization: A tool for increasing the reproducibility of science.

Poorly designed preclinical studies may compromise human health due to erroneous conclusions regarding treatment effects in addition to contributing to experimental irreproducibility and wasted resources. Randomization is one of the crucial steps to enhance scientific rigor and is a commonly recognized bias-reducing instrument that increases the reliability and reproduction of studies involving animals (even with syngeneic animals). This procedure should be considered when planning a study and reported during data publication. In this context, this work aimed to highlight the importance of adopting quality measures in preclinical trials, with an emphasis on animal randomization. The 'Mouse Randomization' app was developed to help researchers estimate an adequate sample size to obtain significant statistical power, ensuring the ethical use of animals. This app is freely available on the internet to carry out animal randomization and calculate sample sizes for in vivo experiments. We believe that this brief discussion about animal randomization could raise awareness among researchers on how to improve the quality of preclinical research, increasing reproducibility and avoiding animal misuse.

Differentiating True and False Cinnamon: Exploring Multiple Approaches for Discrimination.

This study presents a comprehensive literature review that investigates the distinctions between true and false cinnamon. Given the intricate compositions of essential oils (EOs), various discrimination approaches were explored to ensure quality, safety, and authenticity, thereby establishing consumer confidence. Through the utilization of physical-chemical and instrumental analyses, the purity of EOs was evaluated via qualitative and quantitative assessments, enabling the identification of constituents or compounds within the oils. Consequently, a diverse array of techniques has been documented, encompassing organoleptic, physical, chemical, and instrumental methodologies, such as spectroscopic and chromatographic methods. Electronic noses (e-noses) exhibit significant potential for identifying cinnamon adulteration, presenting a rapid, non-destructive, and cost-effective approach. Leveraging their capability to detect and analyze volatile organic compound (VOC) profiles, e-noses can contribute to ensuring authenticity and quality in the food and fragrance industries. Continued research and development efforts in this domain will assuredly augment the capacities of this promising avenue, which is the utilization of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) algorithms in conjunction with spectroscopic data to combat cinnamon adulteration.

Incidence of infections associated with the use of invasive devices in an ICU after application of the Improvement Science Method

Objective: To reduce the incidence density of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI), and catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) in the intensive care unit (ICU) using the Improvement Science method. Methods: This was a single-center retrospective cohort study. A collaborative quality improvement team developed and implemented local changes to HAI-related processes and protocols. Pre-intervention, intervention, and post-intervention periods were compared. The study was conducted at the Adult ICU of a hospital in southern Brazil. Variables were analyzed using interrupted time series analysis with segmented linear regression, simple correlation, and hypothesis testing. Results: There was a reduction in the incidence density of all infections. VAP was reduced from 27.2% to 7.2% (p < 0.001), CLABSI from 3.0% to 0.9% (p = 0.017), and CAUTI from 8.3% to 1.8% (p < 0.001). The ICU stay was also reduced from 6.7 to 6 days (p = 0.018). Conclusion: There was an improvement in all the evaluated parameters. Ongoing monitoring of related indicators and adherence to implemented measures are essential to sustain improvements. Applying the Improvement Science methodology can reduce the incidence of HAIs in the ICU.

Is it feasible to enhance quality assurance of cervical cancer screening in Latin America? A regional expert consensus.

OBJECTIVES: Cervical cancer elimination requires high-performance screening tests and high treatment rates, and thus high screening program performance is essential; however, Latin America lacks organized screening and quality assurance (QA) guidelines. We aimed to develop a core set of QA indicators suitable to the region. METHODS: We reviewed QA guidelines from countries/regions with highly organized screening programs and selected 49 indicators for screening intensity, test performance, follow-up, screening outcomes and system capacity. A regional expert consensus using the Delphi method in two rounds was implemented to identify basic indicators actionable within the regional context. The panel was integrated by recognized Latin American scientists and public health experts. They voted for the indicators blinded to each other based on feasibility and relevance. The correlation between both attributes was analyzed. RESULTS: In the first round 33 indicators reached consensus for feasibility but only 9 for relevance, without full coincidence. In the second round 9 indicators met the criteria for both (2 screening intensity, 1 test performance, 2 follow-up, 3 outcomes, 1 system capacity). A significant positive correlation was observed for test performance and outcomes indicators between the two attributes assessed (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Cervical cancer control requires realistic goals supported by proper programs and QA systems. We identified a set of indicators suitable to improve cervical cancer screening performance in Latin America. The assessment by an expert panel with a joint vision from science and public health practice represents a significant progress towards real and feasible QA guidelines for countries in the region.

A career in Forensic Odontology: it is not only about teeth / Odontologia Legal como carreira: não se trata apenas de dentes

Throughout the world, forensic odontology academic programmes have been designed and permeate discussions about international or local standard operational protocols, principles or guidelines requiring current technical and scientific knowledge. The heterogeneous groups of students who aim to pursue this career might have high educational and occupational aspirations that will be confronted with the labour markets. In this report, the authors briefly present aspects of the education and training that comprise the choice of a career in forensic odontology nowadays. In conclusion, the individual who opts for forensic odontology as a career must be prepared to find the confidence and resilience to practice professional skills in a unique and challenging field to comply with the society's expectation

Em todo o mundo, vários programas acadêmicos de Odontologia Legal têm sido criados e permeiam discussões sobre protocolos, princípios ou diretrizes operacionais, padrão internacional ou local, que exigem conhecimento técnico e científico atualizado. Os grupos heterogêneos de estudantes que pretendem seguir esta carreira poderão ter elevadas aspirações educativas e profissionais que serão confrontadas com os mercados de trabalho. Neste contexto, os autores apresentam brevemente aspectos da educação e formação que compõem a escolha de uma carreira em Odontologia Legal nos dias de hoje. Em conclusão, o indivíduo que opta pela Odontologia Legal como carreira deve estar preparado para encontrar confiança e resiliência para exercer habilidades profissionais em um campo único e desafiador para atender às expectativas da sociedade

Building an antimicrobial stewardship program: A narrative of six years under the Donabedian perspective.

Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is increasing and represents one of the world's major challenges. AMR increase morbimortality, length of hospital stay and costs. Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs (ASP) are one of the key strategies to promote the rational use of antimicrobials since AMR is mostly driven by antimicrobial consumption. Objective: To describe the ASP implementation in a teaching hospital from the perspective of Donabedian quality assessment and the Brazilian regulatory requirements. Method: This was a descriptive study with secondary data collection, including document review of the ASP. The study setting was a general public 392-bed hospital. The ASP activities were performed by the hospital infection control committee (HICC), hospital pharmacy (HP) and diagnostic support laboratory (DSL). The description of the three services mainly involved in the ASP was based on a quality assessment model involving the dimensions of "structure", "process" and "result" proposed by Donabedian. The distribution among dimensions was guided by the checklist of essential elements of the ASP that compose the Brazilian regulatory requirements. The checklist was applied in July, 2022, and the ASP results described from 2016 to 2021. Results: ASP actions have been gradually implemented since 2008 with the implementation of HICC and improved over the years. Regarding structure, the investments in technology were mapped, quantifying 26 computers and three software programs employed to computerize the ASP processes performed in specific physical areas by HICC, HP and DSL. Institutional guidelines used by HICC, HP and DSL guided clinical practices to operationalize ASP. The evaluation metrics improved for 10 indicators and worsened for four indicators. From the 60 items composing the checklist, the hospital met the requirements in 73.3% of the items (n = 44). Conclusion: This study described the implementation of ASP in a teaching hospital, applying the Donabedian perspective. Although the hospital still does not have a classic ASP model, there were investments to improve structure, processes and results, aiming to comply with international guidelines. A high proportion of key elements of ASP in the hospital were followed according to the Brazilian regulatory requirements. Aspects related to antimicrobial consumption and the emergence of microbial resistance deserve further investigations.

Satisfacción del usuario en consulta externa de Medicina Física y Rehabilitación del Hospital Nacional Edgardo Rebagliati Martins, 2022

Introducción : La satisfacción del paciente es un indicador fundamental de la calidad en los servicios de salud. Sin embargo, encontramos escasos estudios previos en Medicina Física y Rehabilitación (MFyR), especialidad que atiende a pacientes con discapacidad quienes tienen derecho a recibir servicios de salud de la más alta calidad. El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar la satisfacción del usuario en consulta externa de MFyR del Hospital Nacional Edgardo Rebagliati Martins (HNERM) de julio a septiembre del 2022. Métodos : Se realizó un estudio observacional transversal de tipo descriptivo. Se evaluó la satisfacción del usuario de consulta externa con la encuesta SERVQUAL. Asimismo, se incluyeron variables sociodemográficas, relacionadas a la atención brindada, y el tipo de terapia de rehabilitación que recibió. Se realizó el análisis de datos utilizando el paquete estadístico Stata/SE ®. Se realizó el análisis bivariado entre las covariables de interés y la satisfacción. Resultados : Se incluyó a 93 participantes, con una mediana de edad de 43 años, el 49.5 % tuvo un tiempo menor a 6 meses desde la primera atención en consulta externa y el 59.1 % recibía solo terapia física. La satisfacción global fue de 72.4 %. La satisfacción por dimensión fue de 79,6 % para seguridad, 78,5 % para aspectos tangibles, 76,9 % para empatía, 68,8 % para fiabilidad y 58,1 % para capacidad de respuesta. Conclusiones : Hallamos que aproximadamente siete de cada diez participantes presentaron satisfacción global en consulta externa de MFyR del HNERM. Las dimensiones con mayor satisfacción fueron seguridad, aspectos tangibles, y empatía.

Introduction : Patient satisfaction is an important indicator for quality in healthcare services. However, we found scant previous studies on this respect carried out in the Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (PRM) service, a specialty that takes care of disabled patients entitled to receive best quality medical services. The objective of this study was to evaluate users' satisfaction in the outpatient clinic of the PRM service at Edgardo Rebagliati-Martins National Hospital (ERMNH), from July to September, 2022. Methods : A descriptive cross-sectional observational study was carried out. Outpatient's satisfaction was assessed using the SERVQUAL survey. Also, sociodemographic variables related to healthcare services and the type of rehabilitation therapy these patients received were assessed. Data analysis was performed using the Stata/SE® statistical software. Bivariate analysis for interest covariates and satisfaction was also performed. Results : Ninety-tree participants were included, their mean age was 43 years, nearly half (49.5%) had a less than 6-month time since they were seen for the first time in the outpatient clinic, and 59.1% only received physical therapy. Overall satisfaction was 72.4%. Satisfaction according to different dimensions was as follows> 79.6% for safety, 78.5% for tangible issues, 76.9% for empathy, 68.8% for reliability, and 58.1% for response capacity. Conclusions : We found that approximately seven out of ten patients had overall satisfaction in the PRM outpatient clinic at ERMNH. The dimensions with great satisfaction were safety, tangible issues, and empathy.

Development and validation of a prototype for the on-line simultaneous analysis of quality caprolactam synthesized on an industrial scale.

Caprolactam is a highly useful monomer obtained through the Beckmann arrangement, which generates large profits worldwide and is widely used in different industries. During the synthesis process, various components can be generated that weaken the quality of the final product, to have control of the monomer, monitoring is carried out during the synthesis and characterization of the final product. These characterizations generally take time due to the different techniques that must be performed to obtain the data. In this work, a method is designed that associates different techniques to reduce the number of steps carried out in the tests to determine the quality of the material, optimize the times and generate a quality and efficient process in a shorter time, in addition, it is due to a semi-automated system for the simultaneous characterization of caprolactam, which, according to the statistical data obtained for sodium, iron, volatile bases, and moisture analysis were reproducible. The developed prototype had 21 on-line valves that allowed taking the representative volumes of samples and reagents necessary for each measurement. There is excellent linearity where the correlation coefficient has values between 0,9992 and 1. The values obtained for the relative error are between 0.18 and 2.24% for laboratory tests using the traditional method and between 0.21 and 3.83% for tests carried out using the prototype. The P value of the evaluation of the means was 0.997, indicating that the means are not statistically different.•Caprolactam analysis•Process optimization•Determination of impurities.

Self-efficacy among health professionals to manage therapeutic groups of patients with obesity: Scale development and validity evidences.

Health professionals have to be confident to manage therapeutic groups of patients with obesity considering the potential of such approach to organize and provide health care. This study aimed to validate the scale of self-efficacy among health professionals to manage therapeutic groups of patients with obesity. Items were developed by an interprofessional group based on theoretical references on humanized healthcare. Scope, relevance, clarity, and comprehensibility of items and response options were evaluated by experts and health professionals. Using factor analysis and item response theory analysis, items with better discrimination were selected. The interpretation of the scores was proposed with a description of the self-efficacy around different levels. All steps were conducted using online forms. A pool of 21 items was proposed with up to five response options. Experts and health professionals retained 17 items with few changes in wording and four response options. The final scale was composed of 17 items, from which we derived three levels of self-efficacy (low, moderate, high). This study conceived a simple tool to assess health professionals' confidence in managing obesity in therapeutic groups, which may be helpful in designing and measuring the impact of interprofessional education programs to leverage health assistance quality.

Sistema Obligatorio de Garantía de Calidad en Salud: aplicación al laboratorio clínico / Mandatory Quality Assurance System in Health: application to the clinical laboratory

En 1993, el Estado estableció el Sistema General de Seguridad Social en Salud, en el que se introdujeron los diferentes mecanismos legales para promover la calidad en las instituciones prestadoras de servicios de salud en el país. A partir de allí, se implantaron diferentes decretos. En la actualidad, el Sistema Obligatorio de Garantía de Calidad en Salud (SOGCS) se encuentra reglamentado en el Decreto 780 de 2016, Decreto Único Reglamentario del Sector Salud. El SOGCS está integrado por cuatro componentes principales: el Sistema Único de Habilitación (SUH), la Auditoría para el Mejoramiento de la Calidad, el Sistema Único de Acreditación (SUA) y el Sistema de Información para la Calidad en Salud, para dirigir y evaluar el desempeño de estas instituciones en términos de calidad y satisfacción social; además, se adoptó el Manual de Inscripción de Prestadores y Habilitación de Servicios de Salud, el cual contiene las condiciones mínimas que deben cumplir los servicios de salud ofertados y prestados en el país, para brindar seguridad a los usuarios en el proceso de la atención en salud. Dicho manual tiene por objeto definir las condiciones de verificación para la habilitación, como la capacidad técnico-administrativa, suficiencia patrimonial y financiera, y la capacidad tecnológica y científica. En este artículo se revisarán algunos conceptos generales del Sistema Obligatorio de Garantía de Calidad en Salud, así como los estándares y criterios de habilitación para laboratorios clínicos

In 1993, the State established the General System of Social Security in Health, in which different legal mechanisms were introduced to promote quality in the institutions providing health services in the country. From then on, different decrees were implemented. Currently, the Mandatory Health Quality Assurance System (SOGCS) is regulated by Decree 780 of 2016, the Sole Regulatory Decree of the Health Sector. SOGCS is made up of four main components: the Single Qualification System (SUH), the Audit for Quality Improvement, the Single Accreditation System (SUA) and the Health Quality Information System, to direct and evaluate the performance of these institutions in terms of quality and social satisfaction; in addition, the Health Services Provider Registration and Qualification Manual was adopted, which contains the minimum conditions that health services in the country must meet to provide security to users in the health care process. The purpose of this manual is to define the verification conditions for accreditation, such as technical-administrative capacity, patrimonial and financial sufficiency, and technological and scientific capacity. This article will review some general concepts of the Mandatory System of Quality Assurance in Health, as well as the standards and qualification criteria for clinical laboratories

Avaliação do desempenho de detergentes para limpeza: validação de uma proposta / Evaluación del rendimiento de detergentes para limpieza: validación de una propuesta / Performance evaluation of cleaning detergents: a proposal validation

Resumo Objetivo Elaborar e validar uma proposta para avaliação do desempenho de detergentes na limpeza de produtos para saúde. Métodos Foi desenvolvida proposta para avaliar o desempenho de detergentes rotineiramente utilizados em Centros de Material e Esterilização por meio de um estudo experimental utilizando monitores de limpeza e lavadora ultrassônica. Monitores de limpeza foram dispostos na cuba de uma lavadora ultrassônica. O parâmetro adotado para avaliação do desempenho dos detergentes foi a remoção completa da sujidade dos monitores. Foram avaliados resíduos de proteínas de amostras tubulares de aço inoxidável e de policloreto de polivinila, após contato com carga orgânica desafio e limpeza em lavadora ultrassônica. Foram considerados reprovados os testes que apresentavam gradação da coloração azul e aprovados os testes que permaneciam com a coloração marrom, como indicado nas instruções de uso. Todos os testes foram realizados em triplicata ou quintuplicada. Adicionalmente, foram realizados controles positivos. Resultados O uso do teste com tiras de papel alumínio, foil test, mostrou-se de fácil aplicação e capaz de diferenciar a cavitação em diferentes pontos da cuba da lavadora ultrassônica. Os indicadores de limpeza impregnados com resíduos orgânicos e os monitores de proteína utilizados na proposta apresentaram resultados variados, possibilitando diferenciar a eficácia da limpeza para cada detergente utilizado. Portanto, além de disponíveis no mercado, são ferramentas simples que possibilitaram a avaliação dos detergentes. Conclusão A proposta desenvolvida mostrou-se factível e simples e considerou produtos e equipamentos rotineiramente encontrados em Centros de Material e Esterilização.

Resumen Objetivo Elaborar y validar una propuesta para evaluación del rendimiento de detergentes en la limpieza de productos de salud. Métodos Mediante un estudio experimental con el uso de monitores de limpieza y lavadora ultrasónica, se elaboró una propuesta para evaluar el rendimiento de detergentes utilizados habitualmente en centros de material y esterilización. Se colocaron monitores de limpieza en el tanque de una lavadora ultrasónica. El parámetro adoptado para evaluar el rendimiento de los detergentes fue la eliminación completa de la suciedad de los monitores. Se evaluaron residuos de proteínas de muestras tubulares de acero inoxidable y de cloruro de polivinilo, después del contacto con carga orgánica desafío y limpieza en lavadora ultrasónica. Las pruebas que presentaron una gama de coloración azul fueron reprobadas, y las que permanecían con coloración marrón fueron aprobadas, como indicado en las instrucciones de uso. Todas las pruebas fueron realizadas en triplicado o quintuplicado. Adicionalmente se realizaron controles positivos. Resultados El uso de las pruebas con tiras de papel de aluminio, foil test, demostró ser de fácil aplicación y con capacidad para diferenciar la cavitación en diferentes puntos del tanque de la lavadora ultrasónica. Los indicadores de limpieza impregnados de residuos orgánicos y los monitores de proteína utilizados en la propuesta presentaron resultados variados, lo que permitió diferenciar la eficacia de la limpieza en cada detergente usado. Por lo tanto, además de estar disponibles en el mercado, son herramientas simples que permiten la evaluación de los detergentes. Conclusión La propuesta desarrollada demostró ser factible y simple, e incluyó productos y equipos encontrados habitualmente en centros de material y esterilización.

Abstract Objective To develop and validate a proposal to evaluate the performance of cleaning detergents for health products. Methods A proposal was developed to evaluate the performance of detergents routinely used in Materials and Sterilization Center through an experimental study using cleaning monitors and an ultrasonic washer. Cleaning monitors were placed in the ultrasonic washer tub. The parameter adopted to evaluate the performance of detergents was the complete removal of stain from the monitors. Protein residues from tubular stainless steel and polyvinyl chloride samples were evaluated after contact with challenge organic matter and cleaning in an ultrasonic washer. Tests that showed a gradation of blue color were considered to have failed and tests that remained with a brown color were approved, as indicated in instructions for use. All tests were performed in triplicate or quintuplicate. Additionally, positive controls were performed. Results The use of the foil test with strips proved to be easy to apply and capable of differentiating cavitation at different points in the ultrasonic washer tub. The cleaning indicators impregnated with organic residues and the protein monitors used in the proposal presented varied results, making it possible to differentiate the cleaning effectiveness for each detergent used. In addition to their availability on the market, these simple tools made it possible to evaluate the detergents. Conclusion The proposal developed proved to be feasible and simple and considered products and equipment routinely found in Materials and Sterilization Centers.