Implementation of a Telecardiology Service in a Health Unit in the City of Porto Alegre, Brazil: A Pilot Study

Abstract Background: The implementation of Telecardiology in primary care in the city of Porto Alegre, Brazil, is a viable and promising strategy. It would decrease the distance between patient and specialized professional services by reducing unnecessary referrals and improving the quality of primary care and satisfaction of patients and health professionals. Objective: To implement a Telecardiology service and assess user satisfaction using the CARDIOSATIS scale. Methods: This was a pilot study developed by a partnership between the Institute of Cardiology and the Telehealth Center of Rio Grande do Sul. The study was carried out at Eri Flores-Vila Vargas health center in the city of Porto Alegre, from May to October 2019, and included 21 patients attending the health center. The descriptive analysis of data was performed using the SPSS program (Statistical Package for the Sciences) version 23. Data normality was checked using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Statistical significance was set at 10%. Results: Mean age of participants was 43.8 ± 16.1 years. The most common risk factors in the sample were physical inactivity (81%) and smoking (43%). Most patients had normal electrocardiogram (ECG) readings. The time elapsed from the performance of the ECG test, transmission of the ECG traces to Telehealth, and return of the final ECG report to the health center was 0-7 days. The CARDIOSATIS scale revealed a high prevalence of "very satisfied" users for the general satisfaction domain, and only 14.3% of patients were dissatisfied with their health. Conclusions: Telecardiology reduced the distance between patient and the specialized professional, with a high level of patient and health professional satisfaction. Our study can serve as a basis for the implementation of a telecardiology network in the city of Porto Alegre in the future.

"Playing with Surgical Instruments (PlaSurIn)" game to train operating room novices how to set up basic surgical instruments: A validation study.

BACKGROUND: Game-based training has been considered as an alternative modality to traditional training in different perioperative nursing fields. OBJECTIVES: To describe the adaptation and validation process of "Playing with Tweezers", a Portuguese game developed for novices to set up basic surgical instruments on the Mayo stand or a back table. DESIGN: A validation study with three phases of translation, reconciliation, and evaluation (face, content, and construct validity). SETTINGS: Several medical universities in Iran. PARTICIPANTS: Twelve students in a pilot translation test, 18 experts in the reconciliation phase, 20 experts in the face and content validity stages, and 120 students (72 novices, 26 intermediates, and 22 experts) in the construct validity stage. METHODS: Following "forward-backward" translation from Portuguese to English, the English version of the game was appraised in the reconciliation phase using a 57-item questionnaire. To test face and content validity of the final version of the game, a 30-item questionnaire addressing different aspects of the game was completed. The students' game performance (remained time for game completion, obtained score, and error) was compared to assess the construct validity. RESULTS: Minor differences were detected and resolved during the translation process. The English version of the game was reconciled in two sequential steps, and the final game called "Playing with Surgical Instruments (PlaSurIn)" was developed. All the items regarding the face validity received 80-100% of positive responses. Moreover, regarding the content validity, all of the evaluated items obtained a content validity index of 0.90-1.0. Compared to the novices, the experts and intermediates received higher scores (p < 0.001 in two cases) and fewer errors (p < 0.001, p = 0.007). The remained time for game completion was significantly longer for experts than the novices (p = 0.011). CONCLUSIONS: The "PlaSurIn", as a virtual training strategy, can prepare novices to set up basic surgical instruments.

Additional Improvement of Respiratory Technique on Vascular Function in Hypertensive Postmenopausal Women Following Yoga or Stretching Video Classes: The YOGINI Study.

Background: Hypertension remains highly prevalent in postmenopausal women, along with vascular dysfunction and increased oxidative stress. In such context, regular exercises, yoga practice, and slow breathing have been recommended to treat hypertension. However, the effects of the multiple components of yoga, including the respiratory techniques involved in the practice, on hypertension and on vascular and endothelial function have never been evaluated. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the additional effects of respiratory technique on vascular function and oxidative stress profile in hypertensive postmenopausal women (HPMWs) following yoga or stretching video classes. Study Design: Hypertensive postmenopausal women were recruited and randomized for 12 weeks, twice a week, of supervised yoga or stretching video classes of 75 min for 12 weeks associated or not with respiratory technique. Baseline and post-intervention measurements included pulse wave velocity (PWV), flow-mediated dilation (FMD), and oxidative stress parameters. Hypertensive postmenopausal women (59 ± 0.7 years) who ended the protocol were distributed into three groups: (1) control group (yoga or stretching, C, n = 14); (2) yoga + respiratory technique (Y+, n = 10); (3) stretching + respiratory technique (S+, n = 9). Results: Diastolic blood pressure and FMD [baseline: C: 6.94 ± 1.97%, Y+: 7.05 ± 1.65%, and S+: 3.54 ± 2.01% vs. post: C: 16.59 ± 3.46% (p = 0.006), Y+: 13.72 ± 2.81% (p = 0.005), and S+: 11.79 ± 0.99% (p = 0.0001)] have significantly increased in all groups when baseline and post-practice values were compared. However, resting heart rate and PWV [baseline: Y+: 10.44 ± 3.69 and S+: 9.50 ± 0.53 m/s vs. post: Y+: 9.45 ± 0.39 (p = 0.003) and S+: 8.02 ± 0.47 m/s (p = 0.003)] decreased significantly only in the Y+ and S+ groups (baseline vs. post). Systemic antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase and catalase) increased in all groups, and hydrogen peroxide and lipoperoxidation reduced in Y+ and S+ (baseline vs. post). Conclusions: Twelve weeks of yoga or stretching video classes promoted positive changes in several outcomes generally regarded as cardiovascular risk factors in HPMWs, and these changes were even more pronounced by the association with respiratory technique.

Stress and Food Consumption Relationship in Hypertensive Patients.

BACKGROUND: Stress is a state of threat to the balance of the organism, which can cause biological and psychological changes. In hypertensive patients, stress can interfere with blood pressure levels, influence on food choices and neglect of the diet. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to describe the relationship between stress and dietary intake of hypertensive patients. METHODS: A transversal study was carried out at the Arterial Hypertension Clinic of the Cardiology Institute of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The participants were aged ≥ 18 years and hypertensive. Blood pressure, food consumption and anthropometric measurements were collected. The variables related to stress were evaluated by the Lipp's Stress Symptoms Inventory (LSSI) for adults. Significance level of 5% has been considered for all analyzed data. RESULTS: The number of participants was 100. There was a higher prevalence of the female sex (67%), the mean age of the study population was 55.87 ± 12.55 years. Among the participants, 86% were classified in some of the stress phases, on which 57% were in the resistance phase. It was observed that there was no correlation between the presence of stress (as well as their actions), pressure levels and food consumption. The consumption of foods rich in lipids and individuals with a prevalence of psychological symptoms of stress displayed a significant association. CONCLUSIONS: Rich in fat dietary has been the first choice in patients with psychological symptoms of stress. Further studies regarding remodeled dietary intake and blood pressure levels in relation to the stress phases are suggested. These findings are important to contribute to the development of prevention and treatment strategies for cardiovascular diseases.

Stress and Food Consumption Relationship in Hypertensive Patients / Estresse e Consumo Alimentar em Pacientes Hipertensos

Abstract Background: Stress is a state of threat to the balance of the organism, which can cause biological and psychological changes. In hypertensive patients, stress can interfere with blood pressure levels, influence on food choices and neglect of the diet. Objective: This study aims to describe the relationship between stress and dietary intake of hypertensive patients. Methods: A transversal study was carried out at the Arterial Hypertension Clinic of the Cardiology Institute of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The participants were aged ≥ 18 years and hypertensive. Blood pressure, food consumption and anthropometric measurements were collected. The variables related to stress were evaluated by the Lipp's Stress Symptoms Inventory (LSSI) for adults. Significance level of 5% has been considered for all analyzed data. Results: The number of participants was 100. There was a higher prevalence of the female sex (67%), the mean age of the study population was 55.87 ± 12.55 years. Among the participants, 86% were classified in some of the stress phases, on which 57% were in the resistance phase. It was observed that there was no correlation between the presence of stress (as well as their actions), pressure levels and food consumption. The consumption of foods rich in lipids and individuals with a prevalence of psychological symptoms of stress displayed a significant association. Conclusions: Rich in fat dietary has been the first choice in patients with psychological symptoms of stress. Further studies regarding remodeled dietary intake and blood pressure levels in relation to the stress phases are suggested. These findings are important to contribute to the development of prevention and treatment strategies for cardiovascular diseases.

Resumo Fundamento: O estresse é um estado de ameaça ao equilíbrio do organismo, podendo causar alterações biológicas e psicológicas. No paciente hipertenso o estresse pode interferir nos níveis pressóricos e gerar influência nas escolhas alimentares e negligência da dieta. Objetivo: Este estudo tem como objetivo descrever a relação entre o estresse e consumo alimentar de pacientes hipertensos. Métodos: Estudo transversal, desenvolvido no Ambulatório de Hipertensão Arterial do Instituto de Cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul. Participaram da pesquisa indivíduos hipertensos com idade > 18 anos. Foram coletados dados de pressão arterial, consumo alimentar e medidas antropométricas. As variáveis relacionadas ao estresse foram avaliadas pelo inventário de sintomas de stress para adultos de Lipp (ISSL). Em todas as análises foi considerando um nível de significância 5% (p < 0,05). Resultados: O número de participantes foi de 100. Houve maior prevalência no sexo feminino (67%), a idade média da população estudada foi 55,87 ± 12,55 anos. Dos participantes, 86% se classificaram em alguma das fases do estresse, sendo que destes, 57% estavam na fase de resistência. Observou-se que não houve correlação entre a presença de estresse (bem como suas fases), níveis pressóricos e consumo alimentar. O consumo de alimentos ricos em lipídios em hipertensos com sintomas de estresse apresentou significância estatística. Conclusão: Os alimentos ricos em gordura prevaleceram entre as escolhas alimentares nos pacientes com sintomas psicológicos de estresse. Sugere-se mais estudos em relação a alteração do consumo alimentar e níveis pressóricos em relação às fases do estresse.

Using a 3D printer in cardiac valve surgery: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: The use of the 3D printer in complex cardiac surgery planning. OBJECTIVES: To analyze the use and benefits of 3D printing in heart valve surgery through a systematic review of the literature. METHODS: This systematic review was reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and registered in the Prospero (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews) database under the number CRD42017059034. We used the following databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science and Lilacs. We included articles about the keywords "Heart Valves", "Heart Valve Prosthesis Implantation", "Heart Valve Prosthesis", "Printing, Three-Dimensional", and related entry terms. Two reviewers independently conducted data extraction and a third reviewer solved disagreements. All tables used for data extraction are available at a separate website. We used the Cochrane Collaboration tool to assess the risk of bias of the studies included. RESULTS: We identified 301 articles and 13 case reports and case series that met the inclusion criteria. Our studies included 34 patients aged from 3 months to 94 years. CONCLUSIONS: Up to the present time, there are no studies including a considerable number of patients. A 3D-printed model produced based on the patient enables the surgeon to plan the surgical procedure and choose the best material, size, format, and thickness to be used. This planning leads to reduced surgery time, exposure, and consequently, lower risk of infection.

Using a 3D printer in cardiac valve surgery: a systematic review

SUMMARY BACKGROUND: The use of the 3D printer in complex cardiac surgery planning. OBJECTIVES: To analyze the use and benefits of 3D printing in heart valve surgery through a systematic review of the literature. METHODS: This systematic review was reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and registered in the Prospero (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews) database under the number CRD42017059034. We used the following databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science and Lilacs. We included articles about the keywords "Heart Valves", "Heart Valve Prosthesis Implantation", "Heart Valve Prosthesis", "Printing, Three-Dimensional", and related entry terms. Two reviewers independently conducted data extraction and a third reviewer solved disagreements. All tables used for data extraction are available at a separate website. We used the Cochrane Collaboration tool to assess the risk of bias of the studies included. RESULTS: We identified 301 articles and 13 case reports and case series that met the inclusion criteria. Our studies included 34 patients aged from 3 months to 94 years. CONCLUSIONS: Up to the present time, there are no studies including a considerable number of patients. A 3D-printed model produced based on the patient enables the surgeon to plan the surgical procedure and choose the best material, size, format, and thickness to be used. This planning leads to reduced surgery time, exposure, and consequently, lower risk of infection.

RESUMO INTRODUÇÃO: A impressora 3D é utilizada como coadjuvante no planejamento de cirurgias de cardiopatias complexas. OBJETIVOS: Analisar o uso e os benefícios da impressão 3D em cirurgias de válvula cardíaca por meio de revisão sistemática da literatura. MÉTODOS: Esta revisão sistemática foi conduzida de acordo com os itens do Preferred Reporting for Systematic Reviews e registrada no banco de dados Prospero (Registro Prospectivo Internacional de Revisão Sistemática) sob o número CRD42017059034. Foram utilizados os seguintes bancos de dados: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science e Lilacs. Incluídos artigos com os termos de busca "Heart Valves", "Heart Valve Prosthesis Implantation", "Heart Valve Prosthesis", "Printing, Three-Dimensional" e termos relacionados. Dois revisores independentes conduziram a extração dos dados e um terceiro (revisor) solucionou as discordâncias. Todas as tabelas usadas para a extração de dados estão disponibilizadas em site próprio. A ferramenta Cochraine Collaboration foi utilizada para avaliar o risco de viés na inclusão de estudos. RESULTADOS: Identificados 301 artigos e 13 relatos de casos e séries de casos que atenderam aos critérios de inclusão. A amostra envolveu 34 pacientes, com idade de 3 meses a 94 anos. CONCLUSÃO: Até o presente momento, não há estudos que contemplem um número considerável de pacientes. A impressão de um modelo 3D produzida a partir do protótipo do paciente permitirá ao cirurgião planejar a cirurgia, bem como escolher o melhor material, tamanho, formato e espessura da válvula a ser utilizada. Esse planejamento reduz o tempo de cirurgia, a exposição e, consequentemente, a redução do risco de infecção.

Sexual Dysfunction in Women with Hypertension: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in hypertensive women and compare sexual dysfunction between hypertensive and non-hypertensive women. RECENT FINDINGS: Conducted a systematic review in the following databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, IBECS, and Lilacs. We included articles evaluating the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in a woman and/or comparing sexual dysfunction between hypertensive and non-hypertensive women. Studies were excluded if they evaluated patients with secondary hypertension, examined sexual dysfunction caused by drugs, did not distinguish by gender, or included patients with hypertension and other comorbidities/pathologies. We conducted an I2 test to calculate heterogeneity and a meta-analysis to compare sexual dysfunction between hypertensive and non-hypertensive women. A meta-regression equation calculated the relationship between sexual dysfunction risk for hypertensive and age. Eleven articles were included: five were included in the meta-analysis (1057 hypertensive and 715 normotensive). The prevalence of sexual dysfunction in articles varied from 14.1 to 90.1%. In the meta-analysis of the sexual dysfunction, the relative risk between hypertensive and normotensive women was found to be significant and has a high heterogeneity (I2 =92.6%, p < 0.001); the pooled results revealed a significant risk ratio of 1.81 (95% CI 1.10-2.97, p < 0.05). The relative risk for hypertensive women showed an association with age (b = 0.0333, p < 0.0001). The studies analyzed presented significant limitations in relation to methodology and a small sample size. Consequently, the meta-analysis was highly heterogeneous and reinforced the need for further research in this area.

Clinical registry of cardiovascular surgeries in a university hospital.

OBJECTIVES: To create and implement a computerized clinical registry to verify in the short-, medium- and long-term the mortality and the incidence of significant surgical outcomes in adult patients submitted to cardiovascular surgeries. METHODS: This is a prospective, observational registry-based study aimed at documenting the characteristics of patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery. RESULTS: Variables were standardized according to international references from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS), American College of Cardiology (ACC), Michigan Society of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeons (MSTCVS) and the Department of Informatics of SUS (DATASUS). The standardization was performed in English with an interface in Portuguese to make the data collection easier in the institution. Quality of care indicators, surgical procedure characteristics, in addition to significant cardiovascular outcomes will be measured. Data were collected during the hospitalization until hospital discharge or at the seventh day, in thirty days, six months, twelve months and annually until completing five years. CONCLUSION: The importance of a database maintenance with international standards that can be reproducible was evidenced, allowing the evaluation of techniques and assistance and the integration of data among health institutions.

Clinical registry of cardiovascular surgeries in a university hospital

SUMMARY OBJECTIVES To create and implement a computerized clinical registry to verify in the short-, medium- and long-term the mortality and the incidence of significant surgical outcomes in adult patients submitted to cardiovascular surgeries. METHODS This is a prospective, observational registry-based study aimed at documenting the characteristics of patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery. RESULTS Variables were standardized according to international references from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS), American College of Cardiology (ACC), Michigan Society of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeons (MSTCVS) and the Department of Informatics of SUS (DATASUS). The standardization was performed in English with an interface in Portuguese to make the data collection easier in the institution. Quality of care indicators, surgical procedure characteristics, in addition to significant cardiovascular outcomes will be measured. Data were collected during the hospitalization until hospital discharge or at the seventh day, in thirty days, six months, twelve months and annually until completing five years. CONCLUSION The importance of a database maintenance with international standards that can be reproducible was evidenced, allowing the evaluation of techniques and assistance and the integration of data among health institutions.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Criar e implantar um registro clínico informatizado para verificar mortalidade e incidência de desfechos cirúrgicos maiores em pacientes adultos submetidos a cirurgias cardiovasculares a curto, médio e longo prazo. METODOLOGIA Trata-se de um estudo observacional do tipo Registro, prospectivo, que visa documentar as características dos pacientes submetidos à cirurgia cardiovascular. RESULTADOS As variáveis foram padronizadas de acordo com referências internacionais padronizadas pela The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS), American College of Cardiology (ACC), The Michigan Society of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeons (MSTCVS) e o Departamento de Informática do SUS (Datasus). A padronização foi realizada na língua inglesa com uma interface em português para facilitar a coleta de dados na instituição. Serão mensurados indicadores de qualidade de atendimento, características do procedimento cirúrgico, além dos principais desfechos cardiovasculares. Os dados serão coletados durante a internação até a alta hospitalar ou até o sétimo dia, em 30 dias, seis meses, 12 meses e anualmente até completar cinco anos. CONCLUSÃO Evidenciou-se a importância da manutenção de banco de dados com padrões internacionais que podem ser reprodutíveis, possibilitando a avaliação de técnicas e assistência integrando os dados entre instituições de saúde.

Diagnostic Accuracy of Prehospital Tele-Electrocardiography in Acute Coronary Syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Tele-electrocardiography (tele-ECG) is a powerful ally in the screening of acute ischemic lesions. INTRODUCTION: Evidence that confirms the correlation between the diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) determined in the prehospital setting and the confirmation of the diagnosis in the hospital setting is scarce. This study compares the presumed diagnosis of ACS in the prehospital setting based on electrocardiographic changes, such as ST-segment deviation, with the diagnosis confirmed in a hospital setting. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective, cross-sectional analysis of medical records of patients who sought emergency ambulance services of a distinguished public healthcare service in the city of Porto Alegre from September 2013 to August 2014. Data were collected from tele-ECG recordings and medical records available at the database of the Secretary of Health. The study was based on the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines. RESULTS: Among the 1,338 prehospital examinations performed, a total of 250 admissions in tertiary hospitals were registered. There was a significant agreement (p < 0.01) of 71% of the electrocardiographic changes identified in the prehospital setting with the diagnosis of ACS confirmed in the hospital setting. These changes were more prevalent in men (p = 0.048) and in patients aged 60 years or older (p = 0.006). DISCUSSION: The tele-ECG allows the early diagnosis of ACS, reducing the delay to definitive treatment, be it reperfusion, chemical, or mechanical therapy. CONCLUSIONS: Seventy-two percent of the prehospital diagnosis of ACS based on electrocardiographic changes was later confirmed in the hospital setting.

The cardiac profile and electrocardiographic standard of at-height workers.

BACKGROUND: The Medical Control Program for Occupational Health establishes the required supplementary exams, according to the activity exercised by the worker and its inherent risks. The Regulatory Norm No. 35, recently deployed, stipulates that at-height workers must undergo electrocardiogram exams as an additional routine examination. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the electrocardiographic standard in at-height. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study, developed from May 2014 to January 2015 with male at-height workers. Anthropometric and clinical data were collected after the electrocardiogram (ECG). The workers included in the program were evaluated by an occupational medicine service of Serra Gaúcha, responsible for medical assessment and occupational tests. All workers were assessed by the researcher. RESULTS: A total of 561 at-height workers participated in the study. The average age was 35.9 ± 12.2 years. A total of 176 (31%) presented electrocardiographic changes in the analysis of the resting ECG. Regarding the amendments in the resting ECG, 15.7% were attributed to changes in ventricular repolarization, 8% as blocks conductions, and 5.8% as left ventricular overload. Demographic variables were not associated with changes in the electrocardiographic tracing. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated the electrocardiographic alterations and the profile of at-height workers. These findings can help determine prevention strategies and provide warnings of possible future harms to the health of these workers.

Hypertension as a risk factor for female sexual dysfunction: cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the sexual dysfunction in hypertensive patients compared to normotensive patients. METHOD: this was a cross-sectional study. Samples were composed of 54 hypertensive patients and 54 normotensive patients. The female sexual dysfunction was evaluated by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). RESULTS: the average FSFI score differed highly between hypertensive and normotensive patients (22.4± 7.4 versus 26.8 ±5.4, p< 0.001). Among hypertensive patients, 63% showed sexual dysfunction in opposition to 39% of normotensive patients (p=0.02). Hypertensive women had 1.67 more chances of showing the dysfunction than women with normal blood pressure. CONCLUSION: the sexual dysfunction prevalence is higher in hypertensive than in normotensive women hence, hypertension is a potentiator factor for female sexual dysfunction.

Choice of tube extremity for emission of the lowest radiation dose in pediatric patients.

AIMS: To compare the dosage of radiation the thyroid and gonad glands receive in pediatric patients undergoing chest X-rays, in distinct positions, towards the goal of developing of an X-ray tube positioning protocol. METHODS: A randomized controlled clinical trial was carried out in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at the Institute of Cardiology/University Foundation of Cardiology of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil from June 2014 to September 2016. Patients were divided into two groups. One group was positioned with the thyroid gland facing the anode end of an X-ray tube, and in the other group the thyroid gland faced the cathode end. Radiographs were evaluated by five observers, following criteria recommended by the Commission of the European Communities (CEC). RESULTS: Forty-eight pediatric patients, with a mean age of 2.0 ±â€¯1.3 years, participated in this study. Based on the evaluation of 48 images, it was determined that the thyroid and gonad glands facing the cathode were exposed to 13.3 ±â€¯3.1 µGy and 13.5 ±â€¯4.1 µGy of radiation, respectively (p = 0.008). Additionally, the thyroid and gonad glands facing the anode were exposed to 11.7 ±â€¯3.1 µGy and 12.7 ±â€¯3.1 µGy of radiation, respectively (p = 0.007). The mean input dose in the center of the chest was 20.8 ±â€¯9.6 µGy in both positions. DISCUSSION: The proximity of the thyroid gland to the cathode end of the X-ray tube appears to be related to the dosage of ionizing radiation. Adverse effects associated with exposure to ionizing radiation could be minimized by positioning the thyroid gland to the anodic end of the X-ray tube. CONCLUSION: Patients should be placed facing the anode end of the X-ray tube when taking thoracic X-rays, in order to reduce radiation exposure to the thyroid and gonad glands.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02925936.

Hypertension as a risk factor for female sexual dysfunction: cross-sectional study / Hipertensão como fator de risco para disfunção sexual feminina: estudo transversal / La hipertensión como un factor de riesgo para la disfunción sexual femenina: estudio transversal

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate the sexual dysfunction in hypertensive patients compared to normotensive patients. Method: this was a cross-sectional study. Samples were composed of 54 hypertensive patients and 54 normotensive patients. The female sexual dysfunction was evaluated by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Results: the average FSFI score differed highly between hypertensive and normotensive patients (22.4± 7.4 versus 26.8 ±5.4, p< 0.001). Among hypertensive patients, 63% showed sexual dysfunction in opposition to 39% of normotensive patients (p=0.02). Hypertensive women had 1.67 more chances of showing the dysfunction than women with normal blood pressure. Conclusion: the sexual dysfunction prevalence is higher in hypertensive than in normotensive women hence, hypertension is a potentiator factor for female sexual dysfunction.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar a disfunção sexual em pacientes hipertensas em comparação com pacientes normotensas. Método: estudio transversal. Las muestras estaban compuestas por 54 pacientes hipertensos y 54 normotensos. La disfunción sexual femenina fue evaluada por el Índice de Función Sexual Femenina (FSFI). Resultados: a pontuação média do FSFI foi muito diferente entre pacientes hipertensas e normotensas (22,4 ± 7,4 versus 26,8 ± 5,4, p <0,001). Da amostra de pacientes hipertensas, 63% apresentaram disfunção sexual, ante 39% da amostra de pacientes normotensas (p=0,02). As mulheres hipertensas apresentaram 1,67 vezes mais chances de ter a disfunção do que mulheres com pressão arterial normal. Conclusão: a prevalência de disfunção sexual é maior em mulheres hipertensas do que em mulheres normotensas. Portanto, a hipertensão é um fator que potencializa a disfunção sexual feminina.

RESUMEN Objetivo: evaluar la disfunción sexual en pacientes hipertensos en comparación con pacientes normotensos. Método: estudio transversal. Las muestras estaban compuestas por 54 pacientes hipertensos y 54 normotensos. La disfunción sexual femenina fue evaluada por el Índice de Función Sexual Femenina (FSFI). Resultados: el puntaje FSFI promedio fue muy diferente entre pacientes hipertensos y normotensos (22.4±7.4 versus 26.8 ± 5.4, p<0.001). El 63% de los pacientes de la muestra de hipertensos demonstraron disfunción sexual, en oposición al 39% de la muestra de pacientes normotensos (p=0,02). Las mujeres hipertensas presentaron 1.67 más posibilidad de mostrar la disfunción que las mujeres con presión arterial normal. Conclusión: la prevalencia de disfunción sexual es mayor en mujeres hipertensas que en mujeres normotensas. Entonces, la hipertensión es un potenciador de la disfunción sexual femenina.

Análise da população atendida por meio de tele-eletrocardiograma em serviço móvel de urgência / Analysis of the population attended through a tele-electrocardiography in mobile emergency medical service / Análisis de la población asistida por medio de tele-electrocardiograma en el servicio de urgencia móvil

O estudo aqui apresentado teve como objetivo analisar a população atendida por meio de teleeletrocardiografia realizada por serviço público que pode ser referência para outros em matéria de atendimento pré-hospitalar móvel de urgência no município de Porto Alegre. Trata-se de estudo transversal retrospectivo. Foram analisados 1.338 eletrocardiogramas realizados de setembro 2013 a agosto 2014 pelo Samu/POA, com laudo a distância feito no Hospital do Coração (HCor) em São Paulo. Utilizou-se a metodologia embasada nas diretrizes STROBE (Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology). Em 115 (8,6%) desses tele-eletrocardiogramas, os pacientes foram diagnosticados com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST. Esta alteração eletrocardiográfica prevaleceu no gênero masculino (p = 0,012) com idade acima de 60 anos (p = 0,014). Dor torácica típica retroesternal foi mencionada por 314 homens (54,3%) e 726 mulheres (56,3%). Síncope foi relatada por 94 homens (16,3%) e 107 mulheres (14,2%). A dispneia foi um sintoma apontado por 47 homens (8,1%) e 84 mulheres (11,1%). Os resultados do estudo revelaram que alterações eletrocardiográficas sugestivas de SCA (Síndrome coronariana aguda) predominam em homens idosos; embora as mulheres solicitem o serviço de atendimento com mais frequência, o supradesnivelamento do segmento ST mostrou-se preponderante no gênero masculino. A dor torácica ter sido mencionada como o sintoma mais referido está em concordância com a literatura atual. =O conhecimento de nossa realidade pode auxiliar a elaboração de protocolos de serviço.(AU)

The study presented now had as objective to analyze the population attended by tele-electrocardiography in a public service that is a reference for mobile emergency medical service in the city of Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil. It is a retrospective cross-sectional study. We analyzed all electrocardiograms performed by Samu Porto Alegre, from September 2013 to August 2014, and their medical reports produced remotely by the Hospital do Coração (HCor), SP, Brazil. The study was based on the STROBE (Strengthening Reporting Observational Studies Epidemiology) guidelines. From tele-electrocardiograms, 115 (8.6%) patients were diagnosed having a ST-segment elevation. This electrocardiographic alteration was more prevalent in men (p = 0.012) who were 60 years old or over (p = 0.014). Among the symptoms expressed by patients, 314 (54.3%) men and 726 (56.3%) women felt typical retrosternal chest pain. Syncope was reported by 94 (16.3%) men and 107 (14.2%) women. Dyspnea was a symptom reported by 47 (8.1) men and 84 (11.1) women. The results of the study revealed that electrocardiographic alterations suggesting ACS (Acute Coronary Syndrome) are more prevalent in elderly men. Although women request more frequently the mobile emergency medical service, the ST-segment elevation was more prevalent in men. The chest pain was the most symptom mentioned, a result in agreement with the current literature. The knowledge of our reality can help the organization of service protocols.

El estudio presentado aquí ha tenido el objetivo de analizar la población atendida a través de tele-electrocardiografía, en servicio público que es referencia en atención pre-hospitalaria móvil de emergencia, en el municipio de Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil. Consiste en un estudio transversal retrospectivo. Fueron analizados electrocardiogramas realizados entre los meses de septiembre/2013 y agosto/2014 por el Samu/POA, con laudos emitidos a distancia por el Hospital del Corazón (HCor), SP, Brasil. El estudio es basado en las directrices del STROBE (Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology). En 115 (8,6%) de estos tele-electrocardiogramas, los pacientes fueron diagnosticados con supra desnivel del segmento ST. Esta alteración electrocardiográfica fue más predominante en el género masculino (p = 0,012), con edad superior a 60 años (p = 0,014%). Dolor en el pecho típíco retroesternal fue mencionado por 314 hombres (54,3%) y 726 mujeres (56,3%). Síncope fue relatado por 94 hombres (16,3%) y 107 mujeres (14,2%). La disnea fue un síntoma mencionado por 47 hombres (8,1%) y 84 mujeres (11,1%). Los resultados del estudio revelaron que alteraciones sugestivas de SCA (Síndrome coronario agudo) son más predominantes en los hombres con edad superior a 60 años; las mujeres suelen recurrir a el servicio de atención con más frecuencia, entretanto, el suspradesnivel del segmento ST ha prevalecido en el género masculino. El dolor en el pecho fue el síntoma más mencionado, hecho que coincide con la literatura actual. El conocimiento de nuestra realidad puede auxiliarnos a elaborar protocolos de servicio.

The cardiac profile and electrocardiographic standard of at-height workers

SUMMARY BACKGROUND The Medical Control Program for Occupational Health establishes the required supplementary exams, according to the activity exercised by the worker and its inherent risks. The Regulatory Norm No. 35, recently deployed, stipulates that at-height workers must undergo electrocardiogram exams as an additional routine examination. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the electrocardiographic standard in at-height. METHODOLOGY A cross-sectional study, developed from May 2014 to January 2015 with male at-height workers. Anthropometric and clinical data were collected after the electrocardiogram (ECG). The workers included in the program were evaluated by an occupational medicine service of Serra Gaúcha, responsible for medical assessment and occupational tests. All workers were assessed by the researcher. RESULTS A total of 561 at-height workers participated in the study. The average age was 35.9 ± 12.2 years. A total of 176 (31%) presented electrocardiographic changes in the analysis of the resting ECG. Regarding the amendments in the resting ECG, 15.7% were attributed to changes in ventricular repolarization, 8% as blocks conductions, and 5.8% as left ventricular overload. Demographic variables were not associated with changes in the electrocardiographic tracing CONCLUSION This study demonstrated the electrocardiographic alterations and the profile of at-height workers. These findings can help determine prevention strategies and provide warnings of possible future harms to the health of these workers.

RESUMO FUNDAMENTO O Programa de Controle Médico e Saúde Ocupacional estabelece a realização de exames complementares de acordo com a atividade exercida pelo trabalhador e os riscos a ela inerentes. A Norma Regulamentadora n0 35, implantada recentemente, estabelece que trabalhadores que exercem funções em altura realizem o eletrocardiograma como um exame complementar de rotina. OBJETIVO Avaliar o padrão eletrocardiográfico dos trabalhadores em altura por meio da realização do ECG de repouso. MÉTODOS Estudo transversal, desenvolvido de maio de 2014 a janeiro de 2015 com trabalhadores masculinos que exercem funções em altura. Foram coletados dados clínicos e demográficos e, após, realizado o eletrocardiograma (ECG). Os trabalhadores incluídos eram vinculados a um serviço de medicina do trabalho da Serra Gaúcha, destinado à realização de avaliação médica e exames ocupacionais. Todos foram avaliados pela pesquisadora. RESULTADOS Participaram 561 trabalhadores em altura. A média de idade foi de 35,9±12,2 anos, e 176 (31%) apresentaram alterações eletrocardiográficas na análise dos ECG de repouso. Das alterações do ECG de repouso, 15,7% foram atribuídas a alterações da repolarização ventricular; 8% como bloqueios de condução e 5,8% como sobrecarga de ventrículo esquerdo. As variáveis demográficas não estavam associadas com alterações no traçado eletrocardiográfico. CONCLUSÃO Este estudo verificou que a prevalência de sobrecarga de ventrículo esquerdo e alteração da repolarização ventricular, nos trabalhadores em altura, é maior quando comparada a estudos populacionais brasileiros. A associação de fatores de risco e alterações eletrocardiográficas em indivíduos difere de populações específicas.

Development of an Educational Game to Set Up Surgical Instruments on the Mayo Stand or Back Table: Applied Research in Production Technology.

BACKGROUND: Existing research suggests that digital games can be used effectively for educational purposes at any level of training. Perioperative nursing educators can use games to complement curricula, in guidance and staff development programs, to foster team collaboration, and to give support to critical thinking in nursing practice because it is a complex environment. OBJECTIVE: To describe the process of developing an educational game to set up surgical instruments on the Mayo stand or back table as a resource to assist the instructor in surgical instrumentation training for students and nursing health professionals in continued education. METHODS: The study was characterized by applied research in production technology. It included the phases of analysis and design, development, and evaluation. The objectives of the educational game were developed through Bloom's taxonomy. Parallel to the physical development of the educational game, a proposed model for the use of digital elements in educational game activities was applied to develop the game content. RESULTS: The development of the game called "Playing with Tweezers" was carried out in 3 phases and was evaluated by 15 participants, comprising students and professional experts in various areas of knowledge such as nursing, information technology, and education. An environment was created with an initial screen, menu buttons containing the rules of the game, and virtual tour modes for learning and assessment. CONCLUSIONS: The "digital" nursing student needs engagement, stimulation, reality, and entertainment, not just readings. "Playing with Tweezers" is an example of educational gaming as an innovative teaching strategy in nursing that encourages the strategy of involving the use of educational games to support theoretical or practical classroom teaching. Thus, the teacher does not work with only 1 type of teaching methodology, but with a combination of different methodologies. In addition, we cannot forget that skill training in an educational game does not replace curricular practice, but helps.

Síndrome coronariana aguda: risco em jovens / Acute coronary syndrome: risk in youth / Síndrome coronario agudo: riesgo en jóvenes

O objetivo do estudo foi verificar o risco para síndrome coronariana aguda, em pacientes adultos jovens internados em um hospital de cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul, entre setembro de 2010 e junho de 2012. Estudo transversal, com pacientes de 20 a 50 anos, ambos os sexos, com diagnóstico de síndrome coronariana aguda. Analisados fatores de risco cardiovasculares como: idade, história familiar positiva, tabagismo, índice de massa corpórea, atividade física, pressão arterial, glicemia, triglicerídeos, colesterol total e lipoproteína de alta densidade. Os resultados evidenciaram que dos 96 pacientes, 52(54,2%) eram do sexo masculino, idade média de 43±7,4 anos e 57(59,4%) com infarto agudo do miocárdio com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST. Os fatores de risco mais prevalentes foram: história familiar positiva 53(55,2%) e tabagismo 49(51%). A abordagem multidisciplinar deve ser instituída para modificação do estilo de vida, evitando ocorrência de novos eventos

This cross-sectional study to determine risk for acute coronary syndrome in young adults examined patients of both sexes aged 20-50 years admitted to a cardiology hospital in Rio Grande do Sul State between September 2010 and June 2012 with diagnoses of acute coronary syndrome. The cardiovascular risk factors analyzed were: age, family history, smoking, body mass index, physical activity, blood pressure, glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol and high density lipoproteins. The results comprised 96 patients, mean age 43±7.4 years, 52(54.2%) of them male, and 57(59.4%) with acute myocardial infarction with ST-segment elevation. The most prevalent risk factors were positive family history 53(55.2%) and smoking 49(51%). A multidisciplinary approach should be introduced to modify lifestyle and prevent new events.

El objetivo del estudio fue determinar el riesgo de síndrome coronario agudo, en pacientes adultos jóvenes internados en un hospital de cardiología de Rio Grande do Sul, entre septiembre de 2010 y junio de 2012. Estudio transversal realizado junto a pacientes de 20 a 50 años, de ambos sexos, con diagnóstico de síndrome coronario agudo. Se analizaron los factores de riesgo cardiovascular como: edad, historia familiar, tabaquismo, índice de masa corporal, actividad física, presión arterial, glucemia, triglicéridos, colesterol total y lipoproteína de alta densidad. Los resultados consistieron en 96 pacientes, 52(54,2%) hombres, promedio de edad 43±7,4 años y 57(59,4%) con infarto agudo de miocardio y supradesnivelación del segmento ST. Los factores de riesgo más frecuentes fueron: historia familiar 53(55,2%) y tabaquismo 49(51%). El enfoque multidisciplinario debe ser instituido para la modificación de estilo de vida evitando la aparición de nuevos eventos.

[Ankle-brachial index: nurses strategy to cardiovascular disease risk factors identification]. / Índice tornozelo-braquial: estratégia de enfermeiras na identificação dos fatores de risco para doença cardiovascular.

Elevated risk of fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular events is associated with high prevalence of peripheral arterial disease, with assessment through the ankle-brachial index (ABI). This study aimed to demonstrate that the ABI and the Edinburgh Claudication Questionnaire are tools to be used by nurses in prevention and/or treatment of CVD (cardiovascular disease). A cross-sectional study was carried out with patients from a cardiovascular clinic. The Edinburgh Claudication Questionnaire was applied and the ABI was measured with the formula (ABI= Blood Pressure Ankle/Blood Pressure Brachial). A total of 115 patients were included, most were females (57.4%), aged 60.6 ± 12.5 years. The most prevalent risk factors were hypertension (64.3%), physical inactivity (48.7%) and family history (58.3%). The study showed that abnormal ABI was frequently found and 42.6% of the patients with abnormal ABI showed intermittent claudication. The method to evaluate the ABI associated to the Edinburg Claudication Questionnaire, can be easily used by nurses in the clinical evaluation of asymptomatic and symptomatic CVD patients.