Laboratory biomarkers associated with COVID-19 mortality among inpatients in a Peruvian referral hospital.

Aim: To evaluate the biochemical and hematological markers associated with the risk of death due to COVID-19 in a clinical cohort with a severe clinical profile. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted among 215 anonymized inpatient records from the Hospital Nacional Almanzor Aguinaga Asenjo, Peru, between April and June 2020. The association between biomarkers and death due to COVID-19 was assessed using Cox regression, with a multivariable modeling of 1) biochemical and 2) hematological markers. Kaplan-Meier analyses and time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curves were calculated for each associated biomarker (p < 0.05). Results: Data analysis of 215 inpatient records revealed an overall mortality rate of 51.30% (95% CI 44.70-58.50), a mean age of 63.90 ± 14.10 years, and a median oxygen saturation of 88% (interquartile range 82-92%). The best-fitted biochemical model included higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), D-dimer, fibrinogen, urea, and lactate dehydrogenase. Similarly, the best-fitted hematological model included higher absolute neutrophil and prothrombin time, and lower absolute platelet counts. The best area under the curve values in both models were found to be CRP and D-dimer values (>0.74) and the absolute neutrophil count (0.63). Conclusions: Some specific biochemical markers outperformed hematological markers. Evaluated hematological counts analyzed in multivariable models proved to be better markers and could be useful to discriminate COVID-19 patients at high risk of death.

Evidence-based indications for ivermectin in parasitic diseases: An integrated approach to context and challenges in Peru.

Ivermectin has emerged as a therapeutic option for various parasitic diseases, including strongyloidiasis, scabies, lice infestations, gnathostomiasis, and myiasis. This study comprehensively reviews the evidence-based indications for ivermectin in treating parasitic diseases, considering the unique context and challenges in Peru. Fourteen studies were selected from a systematic search of scientific evidence on ivermectin in PubMed, from 2010 to July 2022. The optimal dosage of ivermectin for treating onchocerciasis, strongyloidiasis, and enterobiasis ranges from 150 to 200 µg/kg, while lymphatic filariasis requires a higher dose of 400 µg/kg (Brown et al., 2000). However, increased dosages have been associated with a higher incidence of ocular adverse events. Scientific evidence shows that ivermectin can be safely and effectively administered to children weighing less than 15 kg. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses provide strong support for the efficacy and safety of ivermectin in combating parasitic infections. Ivermectin has proven to be an effective treatment for various parasitic diseases, including intestinal parasites, ectoparasites, filariasis, and onchocerciasis. Dosages ranging from 200 µg/kg to 400 µg/kg are generally safe, with adjustments made according to the specific pathology, patient age, and weight/height. Given Peru's prevailing social and environmental conditions, the high burden of intestinal parasites and ectoparasites in the country underscores the importance of ivermectin in addressing these health challenges.

Humoral response after a BNT162b2 heterologous third dose of COVID-19 vaccine following two doses of BBIBP-CorV among healthcare personnel in Peru.

Background: The inactivated virus vaccine, BBIBP-CorV, was principally distributed across low- and middle-income countries as primary vaccination strategy to prevent poor COVID-19 outcomes. Limited information is available regarding its effect on heterologous boosting. We aim to evaluate the immunogenicity and reactogenicity of a third booster dose of BNT162b2 following a double BBIBP-CorV regime. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study among healthcare providers from several healthcare facilities of the Seguro Social de Salud del Perú - ESSALUD. We included participants two-dose BBIBP-CorV vaccinated who presented a three-dose vaccination card at least 21 days passed since the vaccinees received their third dose and were willing to provide written informed consent. Antibodies were determined using LIAISON® SARS-CoV-2 TrimericS IgG (DiaSorin Inc., Stillwater, USA). Factors potentially associated with immunogenicity, and adverse events, were considered. We used a multivariable fractional polynomial modeling approach to estimate the association between anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies' geometric mean (GM) ratios and related predictors. Results: We included 595 subjects receiving a third dose with a median (IQR) age of 46 [37], [54], from which 40% reported previous SARS-CoV-2 infection. The overall geometric mean (IQR) of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies was 8,410 (5,115 - 13,000) BAU/mL. Prior SARS-CoV-2 history and full/part-time in-person working modality were significantly associated with greater GM. Conversely, time from boosting to IgG measure was associated with lower GM levels. We found 81% of reactogenicity in the study population; younger age and being a nurse were associated with a lower incidence of adverse events. Conclusions: Among healthcare providers, a booster dose of BNT162b2 following a full BBIBP-CorV regime provided high humoral immune protection. Thus, SARS-CoV-2 previous exposure and working in person displayed as determinants that increase anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies.

Post-vaccination seropositivity against SARS-CoV-2 in peruvian health workers vaccinated with BBIBP-CorV (Sinopharm).

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence of post-vaccination seropositivity against SARS-CoV-2 and identify its predictors in Peruvian Social Health Insurance (EsSalud) personnel in 2021. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study in a representative simple stratified sample of EsSalud workers. We evaluated IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies response (seropositivity) by passive (previous infection) and active immunization (vaccination), and epidemiological and occupational variables obtained by direct interview and a data collection form. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used with correction of sample weights adjusted for non-response rate, and crude and adjusted odds ratio (OR) and geometric mean ratio (GMR) with their respective 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were estimated. RESULTS: We enrolled 1077 subjects. Seropositivity was 67.4% (95%CI: 63.4-71.1). Predictors of seropositivity were age (negative relation; p < 0.001), previous infection (aOR = 11.7; 95%CI: 7.81-17.5), working in COVID-19 area (aOR = 1.47; 95%CI: 1.02-2.11) and time since the second dose. In relation to antibody levels measured by geometric means, there was an association between male sex (aGMR = 0.77; 95%CI: 0.74-0.80), age (negative relation; p < 0.001), previous infection (aGMR = 13.1; 95%CI:4.99-34.40), non-face-to-face/licensed work modality (aGMR = 0.78; 95%CI: 0.73-0.84), being a nursing technician (aGMR = 1.30; 95%CI: 1.20-1.41), working in administrative areas (aGMR = 1.17; 95%CI: 1.10-1.25), diagnostic support (aGMR = 1.07; 95%CI: 1.01-1.15), critical care (aGMR = 0.85; 95%CI: 0.79-0.93), and in a COVID-19 area (aGMR = 1.30; 95%CI: 1.24-1.36) and time since receiving the second dose (negative relation; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Seropositivity and antibody levels decrease as the time since receiving the second dose increases. Older age and no history of previous infection were associated with lower seropositivity and antibody values. These findings may be useful for sentinel antibody surveillance and the design of booster dose strategies.

Letalidad por COVID-19 en adultos hospitalizados durante las dos primeras olas pandémicas: Una experiencia del sector privado en Perú

Introducción: La letalidad por COVID-19 en Perú fue 9.1 % en 2020-2021, una de la más altas en el mundo. Objetivos: describir la letalidad por COVID-19 en adultos hospitalizados en una clínica privada en Lima, Perú, durante las primeras dos olas pandémicas y evaluar sus factores asociados. Materiales y métodos: Estudio trasversal analítico en abril-septiembre 2020 (primera ola) y enero-mayo 2021 (segunda ola), en pacientes mayores de 18 años atendidos por COVID-19 en una clínica privada del Perú, obtenidos por muestreo aleatorio simple. Se aplicó pruebas estadísticas considerando p<0,05, usando IBM SPSS 27.0. Resultados: La muestra de 263 y 235 pacientes en la primera y segunda ola, la mediana de edad fue 51 y 49 años en cada periodo y en ambos momentos el sexo masculino predominó con72.9 % y 63.2 %. La letalidad fue de 7.7 % y 6 % en cada ola pandémica. Entre ambas olas se encontró diferencia respecto al sexo y frecuencia respiratoria. Los factores asociados a letalidad en ambas olas fueron la edad, SatO/FiO y lactato deshidrogenasa (LDH). Conclusiones: La letalidad por COVID-19 en pacientes adultos hospitalizados en una clínica privada, durante las primeras dos olas pandémicas fue baja y los factores asociados fueron edad, SatO/FiO y LDH.

Introduction: The fatality rate from COVID-19 in Peru was 9.1% in 2020-2021, the adults hospitalized in a private clinic in Lima, Peru during the first two pandemic waves and to evaluate its associated factors. Materials and methods: Analytical cross-sectional study in April-September 2020 (first wave) and January-May 2021 (second wave), in patients over 18 years of age treated for COVID-19 in a private clinic in Peru, obtained by simple random sampling. Statistical tests were applied considering p<0,05, using IBM SPSS 27.0. Results: The sample was 263 and 235 patients in the first and second wave, the median age was 51 and 49 years in each period and in both moments the male sex predominated with 72.9% and 63.2%. The fatality rate was 7.7% and 6% in each pandemic wave. Between both waves, a difference was found regarding sex and respiratory rate. The factors associated with fatality in both waves were age, SatO/FiO and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Conclusions: The fatality rate due to COVID-19 in adult patients hospitalized in a private clinic during the first two pandemic waves was low and the associated factors were age, SatO/FiO and LDH.

Clinical-epidemiologic variation in patients treated in the first and second wave of COVID-19 in Lambayeque, Peru: A cluster analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To identify differences in the clinical and epidemiologic characteristics of patients during the first and second waves of the COVID-19 pandemic at the EsSalud Lambayeque health care network, Peru. METHODS: An analytical cross-sectional study of 53,912 patients enrolled during the first and second waves of COVID-19 was conducted. Cluster analysis based on clustering large applications (CLARA) was applied to clinical-epidemiologic data presented at the time of care. The two pandemic waves were compared using clinical-epidemiologic data from epidemiologic surveillance. RESULTS: Cluster analysis identified four COVID-19 groups with a characteristic pattern. Cluster 1 included the largest number of participants in both waves, and the participants were predominantly female. Cluster 2 included patients with gastrointestinal, respiratory, and systemic symptoms. Cluster 3 was the "severe" cluster, characterized by older adults and patients with dyspnea or comorbidities (cardiovascular, diabetes, obesity). Cluster 4 included asymptomatic, pregnant, and less severe patients. We found differences in all clinical-epidemiologic characteristics according to the cluster to which they belonged. CONCLUSION: Using cluster analysis, we identified characteristic patterns in each group. Respiratory, gastrointestinal, dyspnea, anosmia, and ageusia symptoms were higher in the second COVID-19 wave than the first COVID-19 wave.

Female orgasmic dysfunction and severe climacteric symptomatology in women aged 40 to 59 years: an independent association from an analysis of a multicenter Latin American study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between the severity of climacteric symptoms (CS) and orgasmic dysfunction (OD), controlled by demographic, clinical, and partner variables. METHODS: We carried out a secondary analysis of a multicenter Latin American cross-sectional study that surveyed sexually active women 40 to 59 years old. We assessed CS (global, somatic, psychological, or urogenital domains) and OD. Also, we explored clinical variables and partner sexual conditions. We performed logistic regression models with nonparametric bootstrap resampling to estimate crude and adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS: We included data of 5,391 women in the analysis. Regarding CS, 24.8%, 10.8%, 28.4%, and 32.9% had respectively severe symptoms according to total, somatic, psychological, and urogenital domain scores of the Menopause Rating Scale. OD was found in 25.4% of women. The adjusted model (including menopausal status and partner sexual dysfunction) showed that severe CS increased the odds of OD (aOR = 2.77; 95% CI: 2.41-3.19 [total Menopause Rating Scale score]; aOR = 1.65; 95% CI: 1.37-2.00 [somatic domain]; aOR = 2.02; 95% CI: 1.76-2.32 [psychological domain] and aOR = 3.89; 95% CI: 3.40-4.45 [urogenital]). CONCLUSIONS: Severe CS were associated with OD independently of demographic, clinical, and partner variables. Severe urogenital symptoms had the strongest association.

Relación entre los grupos sanguíneos A, B y O y mortalidad por infección con SARS-CoV-2 en pacientes hospitalizados

El objetivo del estudio fue investigar la relación entre los grupos sanguíneos A, B y O y la mortalidad en pacientes hospitalizados por una infección grave por SARS-CoV-2. La investigación fue observacional retrospectiva en un hospital de tercer nivel en Lima, Perú. Se incluyó a 203 pacientes, con una edad media de 62,58 ± 16,45 años, y el 71,92 % eran varones. La frecuencia de los grupos sanguíneos O, A y B fue del 75,37 %, 17,24 % y 7,39 %, respectivamente. Se encontró asociación con la mortalidad por infección grave por COVID-19 con los grupos sanguíneos que no son A (grupo O, grupo B), con un PR (razón de prevalencia) de 2,25 IC (intervalo de confianza) 95 % 1,07-4,71. Al ajustar por las principales variables, la asociación con RP persistió en 2,78 IC 95 % 1,06-7,24. En conclusión, en los pacientes hospitalizados por una infección grave por SARS-CoV-2, los grupos sanguíneos O y B estarían asociados con una mayor mortalidad que los pacientes del grupo sanguíneo A.

This study aimed to determine the relationship between ABO blood groups and mortality in patients hospitalized for severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. An observational and retrospective research was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in Lima, Peru. A total of 203 patients with a mean age of 62.58 ± 16.45 years were included in the research, out of whom 71.92 % were males. The frequency of O, A and B blood groups were 75.37 %, 17.24 % and 7.39 %, respectively. An association with mortality from severe COVID-19 infection was found with non-A blood groups (O group or B group), with a PR (prevalence ratio) of 2.25 and 95% CI (confidence interval) of 1.07 - 4.71. When adjusting the main variables, the association with PR remained in 2.78 and 95% CI in 1.06 - 7.24. In conclusion, patients hospitalized for severe SARS-CoV-2 infection with O and B blood groups seem to be associated with higher mortality rates than those with A blood group.

Análisis de Costos de cuidados en salud para pacientes con cáncer al final de la vida: Hospital versus domicilio con cuidados paliativos, en el tercer nivel de atención / Analysis of health care costs for patients with cancer at the end of life: Hospital versus home with palliative care, at the third level of care

Introducción: La etapa final de pacientes oncológicos genera elevados costos, sobretodo en hospitales. Objetivos: Determinar la diferencia de costos de atención al final de la vida de pacientes oncológicos en el hospital versus el domicilio. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de análisis de costos en pacientes fallecidos por cáncer en estadio clínico IV de un hospital terciario de la seguridad social, marzo 2018. Se comparó un grupo domiciliario (GD) de un programa paliativo con un grupo hospitalario (GH) admitido por emergencia. Se estimaron costos directos de servicios profesionales, hospitalización, procedimientos, exámenes auxiliares y medicamentos. Para el análisis estadístico se utilizó Chi cuadrado y T de Student, considerando un valor p<0,05 y utilizando SPSS 24.0. Resultados: Se incluyeron 81 pacientes en GD y 22 en GH, edad entre 36 y 96 años, con una mediana de 72 años en GD y 77 en GH (p=0,97), sexo femenino 59 y 73% respectivamente (p=0,25), predominando cáncer de origen digestivo y genitourinario. El costo promedio por paciente en GD fue 497 dólares americanos y en el GH 1908 (p<0,01), con un promedio diario por pacientes de 17 vs 447 respectivamente. En el GH predominaron los costos de hospitalización, exámenes auxiliares (tomografía, resonancia, análisis de gases arteriales, proteína C reactiva) y antibióticos (ertapenem y colistina), mientras que en GD el mayor costo fue en servicio médicos y medicamentos. Conclusión: Los costos médicos en la etapa final de vida de pacientes con cáncer avanzado son 3,8 veces mayor cuando fallece en el hospital que en el domicilio.

Background: The final stage of cancer patients generates high costs, especially in hospitals. To determine the difference in care costs Objectives:at the end of life for cancer patients in the hospital versus at home. Material and methods: Retrospective cost analysis study in patients who died of clinical stage IV cancer in a tertiary social security hospital, March 2018. Ahome group (Home) of a palliative program was compared with a hospital group (Hospital) admitted from the emergency department. Direct costs of professionalservices,hospitalization,procedures,auxiliaryexams,and medications were estimated. Chi square and Student's Twere used for statistical analysis, considering a value of p<0.05 and using SPSS 24.0. Results: 81 patients in Home and 22 in Hospital were included, aged between 36 and 96 years, with a median of 72 years in Home and 77 in Hospital (p=0.97), female sex 59 and 73% respectively (p= 0.25), predominantly cancer of digestive and genitourinary origin. The average cost per patient in Home was 497 US dollars and in Hospital 1908 (p<0.01), with a daily average per patient of 17 vs 447 respectively. In the Hospital, the costs of hospitalization, auxiliary tests (tomography, resonance, arterial gas analysis, C-reactive protein) and antibiotics (ertapenem and colistin) predominated, while in the Home the highest cost was in medical services and medications. Conclusion: The medical costs in the final stage of life of patients with advanced cancer are 3.8 times higher when they die in the hospital than at home.

Alineamiento de la producción científica a las prioridades de investigación en el Seguro Social de Salud del Perú: Propuesta de fortalecimiento y descentralización de la investigación / Alignment of scientific production to research priorities in the Peruvian Health Social Health Insurance: Purpose to strengthening and decentralization of research

Introducción: Uno de los indicadores del impacto del establecimiento de prioridades en investigación en salud es la producción científica. EsSalud planteó nueve temas de investigación prioritarios (TIP) y 20 preguntas de investigación prioritarias (PIP) 2017-2019. Evaluamos el alineamiento a estas prioridades de investigación en los artículos científicos publicados con filiación de EsSalud durante 2017-2020, y caracterizamos aquellos financiados por esta institución. Material y Métodos: Análisis de los artículos científicos registrados en la base de datos de producción científica de EsSalud 2017-2020. Empleamos una metodología estandarizada y por duplicado para evaluar el alineamiento a los TIP y PIP 2017-2019 de EsSalud. La evaluación del alineamiento a las PIP sólo lo realizamos en artículos originales y resúmenes de congreso. Reportamos frecuencias de alineamiento a cada TIP y PIP, y frecuencia de alineamiento a por lo menos un TIP según características de los artículos. Además, se reportó las características de los artículos financiados por EsSalud. Resultados: Un total de 170 de 1283 artículos se alinearon a al menos un TIP. Ocho de las veinte PIP no fueron respondidas. Los artículos con autores que pertenecen o recibieron financiamiento del IETSI-EsSalud tuvieron la mayor tasa de alineación. Finalmente, los artículos financiados por EsSalud fueron principalmente estudios observacionales, guías de práctica clínica y revisiones sistemáticas. Conclusión: Los artículos científicos publicados con filiación de EsSalud durante el 2017 al 2020 tienen baja alineación con las prioridades de investigación de la institución. Por lo tanto, es necesario generar un proceso de gestión de implementación, seguimiento y evaluación de las prioridades de investigación en la institución.

Background: One of the impact indicators of priorities in health research-setting is the scientific production that refers to these priorities. EsSalud raised nine priority research topics (PRT) and 20 priority research questions (PRQ) for the 2017-2019 period. We assess the alignment to these research priorities in the scientific articles published during the 2017-2020 period by EsSalud, and we characterize those financed by this institution. Material and Methods: Analysis of the scientific articles registered in the EsSalud scientific production database for the period 2017-2020. We used a standardized methodology and in duplicate to evaluate the alignment of a scientific article to the PRTand PRQ 2017-2019 of EsSalud. The evaluation of the alignment to the PRQs is only carried out in original articles and congress summaries. We report alignment frequencies to each PRTand PRQ, and we report the frequency of alignment to at least one PRT according to the articles' characteristics. In addition, the characteristics of the articles financed by EsSalud were reported. Results: 170 out of 1283 articles were aligned to at least one PRT. Eight of the twenty PRQs went unanswered. Articles with authors who belong to or received funding from IETSI-EsSalud had the highest alignment rate. Finally, the highly cited articles financed by EsSalud were mainly observational studies, clinical practice guidelines and systematic reviews. Conclusion: The articles published by EsSalud during 2017 to 2020 have low alignment with institutional research priorities. Furthermore, it is necessary a process of implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of research priorities in the institution.

Efectividad del aplicativo de resultados críticos para el apoyo al diagnóstico y terapéutico de pacientes crónicos atendidos en una Clínica privada entre el 2017 y 2018 / Effectiveness of the critical results application to support the diagnosis and therapy of chronic patients treated in a private clinic between 2017 and 2018

RESUMEN Introducción: La oportuna prestación de servicios de salud es clave para reducir la morbimortalidad de pacientes crónicos, especialmente cuando se requiere una atención frente a un resultado crítico de exámenes auxiliares. En ese contexto, se evalúa un aplicativo web de resultados críticos en una Clínica privada acreditada por Joint Commission International (JCI). Objetivos: el presente estudio busca evaluar la efectividad de un aplicativo web en el reporte de resultados críticos de pacientes crónicos. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio de cohorte retrospectiva. Se compararon dos etapas: la etapa de línea de base (implementación del software) versus la etapa final (evaluación). Resultados: Se registraron 122 resultados críticos de pacientes crónicos en la etapa de implementación y 113 en la etapa de evaluación. Se encontró una disminución en la media del tiempo de respuesta del profesional en la etapa de evaluación con relación a la etapa de implementación. La transcripción en los registros incrementó del 75,4% al 93,8% p<0,001, la continuidad de la atención por el mismo médico incrementó del 41,0% al 54,9% p<0,03. Asimismo, se redujo en 68% la probabilidad de fallecimiento. Conclusiones: El aplicativo web de resultados críticos mejoró el registro de la atención y redujo la mortalidad de pacientes crónicos que tuvieron un resultado crítico.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Currently, the use of health technologies in the health system has become a subject of constant study and innovation. In this context, in an institution accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), a web application was implemented to manage critical results, which were defined as results that could put the patient's life at risk. Objectives: this study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of an application in reporting critical results. Material and methodo: A retrospective cohort study was carried out. Two stages were compared: the baseline stage (software implementation) versus the final stage (evaluation). Results: 122 critical results were registered in the implementation stage and 113 in the evaluation stage. A decrease was found in the average response time of the professional in the evaluation stage in relation to the implementation stage. The transcription in the records increased from 75.4% to 93.8% p <0.00, the continuity of care by the same doctor increased from 41.0% to 54.9% p <0.03. Likewise, the probability of death was reduced by 68%. Conclusions: In the evaluation stage, mortality decreased and the transcription in the information registry of the critical results application improved towards the patient's clinical history. Likewise, it was possible to optimize the quality of care by ensuring that the follow-up of the patient throughout the entire care is carried out by the same doctor.

Efectividad del aplicativo de resultados críticos para el apoyo al diagnóstico y terapéutico de pacientes crónicos atendidos en una Clínica privada entre el 2017 y 2018 / Effectiveness of the critical results application to support the diagnosis and therapy of chronic patients treated in a private clinic between 2017 and 2018

Introducción: La oportuna prestación de servicios de salud es clave para reducir la morbimortalidad de pacientes crónicos, especialmente cuando se requiere una atención frente a un resultado crítico de exámenes auxiliares. En ese contexto, se evalúa un aplicativo web de resultados críticos en una Clínica privada acreditada por Joint Commission International (JCI). Objetivos: el presente estudio busca evaluar la efectividad de un aplicativo web en el reporte de resultados críticos de pacientes crónicos. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio de cohorte retrospectiva. Se compararon dos etapas: la etapa de línea de base (implementación del software) versus la etapa final (evaluación). Resultados: Se registraron 122 resultados críticos de pacientes crónicos en la etapa de implementación y 113 en la etapa de evaluación. Se encontró una disminución en la media del tiempo de respuesta del profesional en la etapa de evaluación con relación a la etapa de implementación. La transcripción en los registros incrementó del 75,4% al 93,8% p<0,001, la continuidad de la atención por el mismo médico incrementó del 41,0% al 54,9% p<0,03. Asimismo, se redujo en 68% la probabilidad de fallecimiento. Conclusiones: El aplicativo web de resultados críticos mejoró el registro de la atención y redujo la mortalidad de pacientes crónicos que tuvieron un resultado crítico.

Introduction:Currently, the use of health technologies in the health system has become a subject of constant study and innovation. In this context, in an institution accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), a web application was implemented to manage critical results, which were defined as results that could put the patient's life at risk. Objectives: this study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of an application in reporting critical results. Material and methods: Aretrospective cohort study was carried out. Two stages were compared: the baseline stage (software implementation) versus the final stage (evaluation). Results: 122 critical results were registered in the implementation stage and 113 in the evaluation stage. Adecrease was found in the average response time of the professional in the evaluation stage in relation to the implementation stage. The transcription in the records increased from 75.4% to 93.8% p <0.00, the continuity of care by the same doctor increased from 41.0% to 54.9% p <0.03. Likewise, the probability of death was reduced by 68%. Conclusions: Intheevaluationstage,mortalitydecreasedandthe transcription in the information registry of the critical results application improved towards the patient's clinical history. Likewise, it was possible to optimize the quality of care by ensuring that the follow-up of the patient throughout the entire care is carried out by the same doctor.

Características del uso de tratamiento alternativo y complementario en dismenorrea en mujeres en edad fértil / Characteristics of the use of alternative and complementary treatment in dysmenorrhea in women of fertile age

Objetivo: Describir las características del uso de tratamiento alternativo y complementario en dismenorrea en mujeres en edad fértil de una ciudad del norte de Perú. El estudio: Estudio trasversal analítico en mujeres en edad fértil en Mórrope, Lambayeque. Previa capacitación sobre dismenorrea y principales variables. Se entrevistó a 336 mujeres en sus domicilios previa aceptación de consentimiento informado. Hallazgos: Predominó en población estudiada el grupo etario de 15 a 35 años con 83,92% (n=282), con educación secundaria el 57,14% (n=192), más del 90% tenían estrato socioeconómico inferior/marginal. Referente a la dismenorrea, se encontró más del 30% con dolor severo/insoportable, cuyo tratamiento principal fue la MAC con 82,1%(n=220). Las plantas fueron la principal MAC, hallando solamente asociación de uso de MAC con la variable religión (p=0,023). Conclusiones: Las mujeres en edad fértil emplean notoriamente la MAC, como la fitoterapia, como tratamiento de dismenorrea a pesar de no encuentran alivio.

Objetive:To describe the characteristics of the use of alternative and complementary treatment in dysmenorrhea in women of childbearing age in a city in northern Peru. Cross-sectional analytical study in women of The study:childbearing age in Mórrope, Lambayeque. Prior training on dysmenorrhea and main variables. 336 women were interviewed in their homes after accepting informed consent. The age group of 15 to 35 years prevailed in the Findings:studied population with 83.92% (n=282), with secondary education 57.14% (n=192), more than 90% had lower/marginal socioeconomic status. Regarding dysmenorrhea, more than 30% were found to have severe/unbearable pain, whose main treatment was MAC with 82.1% (n=220). Plants were the main MAC, only finding an association of MAC use with the religion variable (p=0.023). Conclusions:Women of childbearing age notoriously use CAM, such as phytotherapy, as a treatment for dysmenorrhea despite not finding relief

Resistencia antimicrobiana de uropatógenos en adultos mayores / Antimicrobial resistance of uropathogens in older adults

Introducción: En la actualidad, la resistencia antimicrobiana ha sido declarada por la Organización Mundial de la Salud como un problema de salud pública. Objetivo: Determinar el perfil de resistencia antimicrobiana de uropatógenos en adultos mayores. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo transversal de 567 urocultivos positivos de adultos mayores atendidos durante el año 2017 en una clínica privada en Lima, Perú. El análisis univariado se realizó por distribución de frecuencias, promedio y desviación estándar. Se estimó la asociación entre la producción de BLEE con respecto a las características epidemiológicas y el tipo de atención mediante Chi cuadrado con un nivel de significación de 0,05. Resultados: La edad promedio de la población fue de 74,1 años (DE:10,7). El 71,8 por ciento de los urocultivos positivos pertenecieron al sexo femenino. Los principales uropatógenos aislados en todos los niveles de atención fueron: E. coli, E. coli BLEE y K. pneumoniae BLEE. La E. coli presentó 69,3 por ciento de resistencia a ampicilina; y la E. coli BLEE tuvo el 100 por ciento de resistencia a ampicilina, ceftriaxona y ceftazidima. El 62 por ciento de microorganismos BLEE se encontraron en la atención ambulatoria. Se evidenció asociación estadísticamente significativa entre los agentes productores de BLEE y el sexo (p=0,004), mas no respecto al tipo de atención (p=0,144) ni subgrupos de edad (p=0,669). Conclusiones: La resistencia antimicrobiana es altamente prevalente en los adultos mayores. El sexo femenino fue el más afectado y el uropatógeno más frecuente la E. coli, este presenta una alta resistencia a ampicilina y mayor sensibilidad a nitrofurantoína. Se determinó un alto porcentaje de agentes productores de BLEE en la atención ambulatoria(AU)

Introduction: At present, the World Health Organization as a public health problem has declared antimicrobial resistance. Objective: To determine the antimicrobial resistance profile of uropathogens in older adults. Methods: Cross-sectional descriptive study of 567 positive urine cultures from older adults treated during 2017 in a private clinic in Lima, Peru. Univariate analysis was performed by frequency distribution, mean and standard deviation. The association between ESBL production with respect to epidemiological characteristics and type of care is estimated using Chi square with a significance level of 0.05. Results: The average age of the population was 74.1 years (SD: 10.7). 71.8percent of the positive urine cultures were from female sex. The main uropathogens isolated at all levels of care were E. coli, E. coli ESBL and K. pneumoniae ESBL. E. coli showed 69.3percent resistance to ampicillin; and E. coli ESBL had 100percent resistance to ampicillin, ceftriaxone, and ceftazidime. 62percent of ESBL microorganisms were found in outpatient care. There was a statistically significant association between ESBL-producing agents and gender (p = 0.004), but not with regard to type of care (p = 0.144) or age subgroups (p = 0.669). Conclusions: Antimicrobial resistance is highly prevalent in older adults. The female sex was the most affected and the most frequent uropathogen was E. coli, highly resistant to ampicillin and greater sensitivity to nitrofurantoin. High percentage of ESBL-producing agents was determined in outpatient care(AU)

Experiencia de la estrategia implementada por los equipos de respuesta rápida y seguimiento clínico para reducir la letalidad por COVID-19, Lambayeque-Perú 2020 / Experience of the strategy implemented by the rapid response and clinical follow-up teams to reduce COVID-19 lethality, Lambayeque-Peru 2020

RESUMEN Introducción El Perú fue considerado la mayor tasa de letalidad por COVID-19 (9.39%); siendo Lambayeque en julio del 2020 presentó seroprevalencias más altas reportadas en el mundo para SARS-CoV-2 con 29,5%. Objetivo Describir la experiencia de la estrategia implementada por Equipos de Respuesta Rápida y Seguimiento Clínico de Casos de COVID-19 (ERSC) para reducir la letalidad por COVID-19 durante la primera ola en el 2020. Descripción de la estrategia Se realizó una investigación operativa en una cohorte retrospectiva. La población estudiada estuvo conformada por los casos COVID-19 sospechosos y confirmados durante el periodo abril-diciembre 2020, atendidos en la Red Asistencial de Lambayeque. La metodología se llevó a cabo bajo la Implementación y funcionamiento de los ERSC que realizaban la Vigilancia Epidemiológica, rastreo y seguimiento clínico domiciliario de los casos sospechosos y confirmados de COVID-19. El proceso de captación y tamizaje inicial de los pacientes se realizó mediante tres procesos: tamizaje diferenciado, "call center" y vigilancia de rumores. Tras el tamizaje, se categorizaba al paciente en base a la atención que requería. Los casos eran asignados a los equipos de respuesta rápida quiénes acudían al domicilio del paciente para realizar las actividades indicadas de acuerdo al tipo de brigada. Las brigadas eran cuatro: brigadas de evaluación clínica domiciliaría, de diagnóstico o laboratorio a domicilio, de seguimiento clínico y brigada topo. Conclusiones La letalidad en pacientes moderados/severos disminuyó de 60% (Semana Epidemiológica 19) a 10% (Semana Epidemiológica 50) (p<0,001). La estrategia implementada y ejecutada redujo la letalidad por COVID-19 en población atendida.

ABSTRACT Introduction Peru was considered the highest fatality rate due to COVID-19 (9.39%); Lambayeque being in July 2020 it presented the highest seroprevalences reported in the world for SARS-CoV-2 with 29.5%. Objective To describe the experience of the strategy implemented by Rapid Response and Clinical Follow-up Teams of COVID-19 Cases (ERSC) to reduce COVID-19 lethality, during the first wave in 2020. Strategy description Operational research was conducted in a retrospective cohort. The population studied was made up of suspected and confirmed COVID-19 cases during the April-December 2020 period, treated at the Lambayeque Healthcare Network. The methodology was carried out under the Implementation and operation of the ERSCs that performed Epidemiological Surveillance, tracking and home clinical follow-up of suspected and confirmed COVID-19 cases. The initial patient recruitment and screening process was carried out through three processes: differentiated screening, "call center" and rumor surveillance. After screening, the patient was categorized based on the care required. Cases were assigned to rapid response teams who went to the patient's home to carry out the activities indicated according to the type of brigade. There were four brigades: home clinical evaluation brigades, home diagnostic or laboratory brigades, clinical follow-up brigades and mole brigades. Findings Case fatality in moderate/severe patients decreased from 60% (Epidemiological Week 19) to 10% (Epidemiological Week 50) (p<0.001). The strategy implemented and executed reduced COVID-19 case-fatality in the population served.

Factores asociados a mortalidad en enfermedad SARS-CoV-2 grave de un hospital peruano / Factors associated with mortality in severe SARS-CoV-2 infection in a Peruvian hospital

Objetivo: Determinar factores asociados a mortalidad en pacientes con enfermedad grave por SARS-CoV-2. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo en pacientes mayores de 18 años hospitalizados por enfermedad grave (saturación periférica de Oxígeno < 93% o compromiso radiológico pulmonar > 30%) y prueba molecular positiva en hisopado nasofaríngeo; en el hospital Rebagliati entre marzo y mayo de 2020. Se revisó historia clínica electrónica, resultados de análisis (de laboratorio y radiológicos) al ingreso y tratamiento recibido. Se realizó estadística bivariada y multivariada utilizando regresión de cox. Resultados: Se incluyeron 337 pacientes, de los cuales 215 fallecieron (63.8%). Fueron de sexo masculino 72.1%, edad promedio 63.6 años (DS 15.3), tiempo de enfermedad 7.4 días, estancia hospitalaria 10.3 días y 48.8% ingresó a ventilación mecánica invasiva. El análisis multivariado encontró significancia en edad > 60 años (HR 1.76, IC95% 1.26-2.45), antecedente de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (HR 1.63, IC95% 1.14-2.32), compromiso radiológico pulmonar > 75% (HR 1.87, IC95% 1.37-2.56), leucocitosis > 14000 x mm3 (HR 1.59, IC95% 1.15-2.20), albúmina sérica < 4.0 g/dL (HR 2.49, IC95% 1.30-4.75) y lactato > 1.5 mmol/L (HR: 1.766 IC95% 1.25-2.49). Conclusiones: La edad mayor de 60 años, diabetes mellitus tipo 2, compromiso pulmonar severo, leucocitosis, albúmina baja y lactato elevado al ingreso hospitalario, son factores asociados a mortalidad en pacientes con enfermedad grave por SARS-CoV-2.

Objetive:To determine factors associated with mortality in patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 disease. Materials and methods: Retrospective study in patients older than 18 years hospitalized with severe disease (peripheral oxygen saturation <93% or radiological lung involvement > 30%) and a positive RT-PCR nasopharyngeal swab; in the Rebagliati hospital between March and May 2020. We reviewed electronic medical record, results of admission studies (laboratory and radiological) and treatment received. Bivariate and multivariate analysis were performed using cox regression. Results: 337 patients were studied, 215 of them died (63.8%). 72.1% were male, mean age was 63.6 years (SD 15.3), time of disease evolution was 7.4 days, hospital stay 10.3 days, and 48.8% were on mechanical ventilation. Multivariate analysis found significance in age > 60 years (HR 1.76, IC95% 1.26-2.45), history of type 2 Diabetes (HR 1.63, IC95% 1.14-2.32), pulmonary involvement > 75% (HR 1.87, IC95% 1.37-2.56), leukocytes > 14000 x mm3 (HR 1.59, IC95% 1.15-2.20), serum albumin < 4.0 g/dL(HR 2.49, IC95% 1.30-4.75) and lactate > 1.5 mmol/L(HR: 1.766 IC95% 1.25-2.49). Conclusions: Age older than 60 years, type 2 diabetes mellitus, severe pulmonary involvement, leukocytosis, low albumin, and high lactate at admission are factors associated with mortality in patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 disease.

Índice desarrollo humano y la tasa de letalidad por Covid-19: Estudio ecológico en América / Human development and Covid-19 lethality rate: Ecological study in America

Introducción: El Índice de Desarrollo Humano (IDH), usa tres dimensiones de desarrollo como esperanza de vida, acceso a educación y el nivel de ingresos. Se ha visto a nivel mundial que los grupos socioeconómicamente vulnerables son los menos protegidos y enfrentan el mayor riesgo de COVID-19. Este estudio tiene como objetivo evaluar la correlación entre IDH, índice de inequidad GINI con la tasa de letalidad por COVID-19 en países de América. El estudio: Se desarrolló un estudio observacional ecológico, utilizando las métricas de COVID 19 de países de latino américa. La variable desenlace fue tasa de letalidad por COVID-19, y las variables exposición fueron IDH, GINI, esperanza de vida, años de escolaridad, proporción de mayores de 60 años y PBI per cápita. Recopilado los datos se hicieron análisis. Usamos el método de correlación de spearman, con un nivel de significancia de 95%. Hallazgos: Se evaluaron a 24 países de América Latina, encontrándose una tasa de letalidad por COVID 19 con una mediana de 2.41 y con 1.55 y 3.04 como percentil 25 y 75 respectivamente, obteniéndose además con valores extremos a Ecuador, México y Perú con 6.41, 7.57 y 9.12 respectivamente. Al evaluar la correlación de la tasa de letalidad por COVID 19 se encontró correlación lineal negativa débil entre el IDH, índice de escolaridad y esperanza de vida con rho= -0.253, -0.342 y -0.342 respectivamente, sin embargo no se encontró significancia estadística (Valor p >0.05). Conclusiones: Se encontró entre los países de latino américa que existe correlación lineal negativa débil entre la tasa de letalidad por COVID 19 y IDH, índice de escolaridad y esperanza de vida.

Background: The Human Development Index (HDI), uses three dimensions of development such as life expectancy, access to education and income level. It has been seen worldwide that socioeconomically vulnerable groups are the least protected and face the highest risk of COVID-19. This study aims to evaluate the correlation between HDI, GINI inequality index and COVID-19 case fatality rate in American countries. Study: An ecological observational study was developed, using COVID-19 metrics from Latin American countries. The outcome variable was COVID-19 case fatality rate, and the exposure variables were HDI, GINI, life expectancy, years of schooling, proportion of people over 60 years of age and GDPper capita. Once the data were collected, analyses were performed. We used the spearman correlation method, with a significance level of 95%. Findings: Twenty-four Latin American countries were evaluated, finding a COVID 19 case fatality rate with a median of 2.41 and with 1.55 and 3.04 as 25th and 75th percentile respectively, obtaining also with extreme values Ecuador, Mexico and Peru with 6.41, 7.57 and 9.12 respectively. When evaluating the correlation of the COVID 19 case fatality rate, a weak negative linear correlation was found between HDI, schooling index and life expectancy with rho= -0.253, -0.342 and -0.342 respectively, however, statistical significance was not found (p-value >0.05). Conclusions: It was found among Latin American countries that there is a weak negative linear correlation between COVID 19 case fatality rate and HDI, schooling index and life expectancy.

Producción científica y redes de colaboración en la Seguridad Social del Perú (EsSalud): Análisis bibliométrico 2008-2020 / Scientific production and collaborative networks in Peruvian Social Security (EsSalud): Bibliometric analysis 2008-2020

Introducción: La producción científica de EsSalud ha aumentado progresivamente. Sin embargo, no se ha descrito su producción científica e identificado sus redes de colaboración en las principales bases de datos bibliográficas a nivel internacional. Objetivos: Describir la producción científica de EsSalud en revistas científicas indizadas durante el periodo 2008-2020. Material y Métodos: Estudio bibliométrico que evaluó artículos científicos y resúmenes de congresos, con al menos una filiación institucional relacionada a EsSalud entre sus autores, que se encuentren indizadas en las bases de datos bibliográficas de Scopus, Web of Science, Ovid-Medline o Scielo Citation Index durante el periodo 2008-2020. Se reporta la producción científica anual total y por separado, según base. Se identificaron las redes de colaboración intra y extrainstitucionales. Resultados: Se obtuvieron 4159 registros y, tras aplicar los criterios de selección, quedaron 2333 artículos. Se observó un incremento de publicaciones en todas las bases de datos, excepto en Scielo Citation Index. La mayoría de los artículos fueron originales, observacionales y autofinanciados. Dos hospitales nacionales de EsSalud aportaron casi dos tercios de toda la producción científica evaluada. Se identifico poca colaboración entre instituciones de EsSalud de Lima con las de otras regiones y entre regiones, pero sí con las universidades locales. El área médica que más fue abordada por las publicaciones científicas fue la relacionada con las especialidades de medicina clínica. Conclusiones: La producción científica de EsSalud ha aumentado y ha mejorado en calidad, con una importante colaboración con universidades locales. Es importante impulsar iniciativas que promuevan la investigación y colaboración dentro de EsSalud, en el marco de las prioridades de investigación y de las principales causas de mayor carga de enfermedad en la institución y el país.

Background: Scientific production of Social Security in Perú (EsSalud) has progressively increased. However, there is no description of its scientific production and collaboration networks in relevant international databases. Objectives: Describe the scientific production of EsSalud in indexed journals during the 2008-2020 period. Material and Methods: Bibliometric study that evaluated scientific articles and meeting abstracts,with at least one institutional affiliation related to EsSalud among its authors, indexed in the Scopus, Web of Science, Ovid-Medline, or Scielo Citation Index databases published during the period 2008-2020. The total annual scientific production is reported and separately according to base. Intra and extra-institutional collaboration networks were evaluated. 4159 records were Results: obtained and, after applying the selection criteria, 2333 articles remained. Scientific production from all data bases, except for the Scielo Citation Index, had a progressive increase. Most of articles were original, observational, and self-funded. Two national hospitals from EsSalud accounted for almost two-thirds of all analyzed scientific production. Institutions from Lima had little collaboration with other institutions from other regions, leading to little interregional collaboration. On the other side, there was a noticeable collaboration with local universities. The medical area that was most addressed by scientific publications was that related to clinical medicine specialties. EsSalud's Conclusions:scientific production number and quality had increased during last years in collaboration with local universities.It is important to promote initiatives thar boost the research and collaboration within EsSalud's institutions,emphasizing research priorities and the leading causes of national morbidity and mortality.

Investigación clínica: Situación actual y problemática en la divulgación / Clinical research: Current and problematic situation in the dissemination

La investigación clínica es la herramienta más importante para la identificación de estrategiasdiagnósticasyterapéuticasquederivenenunamayoreficaciay seguridad y que estas finalmente impacten en la recuperación de la salud. Además, la investigación clínica mejora el conocimiento científico, la transferencia tecnológica y la práctica asistencial entre otras ventajas.