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Copyright of Bundesgesundheitsblatt - Gesundheitsforschung - Gesundheitsschutz is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Zentralblatt fuer Arbeitsmedizin, Arbeitsschutz und Ergonomie is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Comfort gloves are used in the management of hand dermatoses. Objectives: To compare the acceptance and tolerability of comfort gloves made of different materials in patients with hand dermatoses and their effects on skin lesions. Methods: In a prospective multicenter study, 284 patients with hand dermatoses were invited to wear either a cotton glove (COT) or a semipermeable Sympatex glove underneath a cotton glove (SYM/COT) for two subsequent phases of 19 consecutive nights each. A total of 88 controls were asked not to wear any comfort gloves overnight. The severity of skin lesions over time was examined. Questionnaires were used to assess health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and acceptance and tolerability of the gloves. Results: The hand dermatoses improved in all groups. No substantial intergroup differences regarding severity and HRQoL were observed. SYM/COT received better ratings regarding climate conditions and tactility while COT showed superiority in fit, wearing comfort, and practicality. Conclusions: We confirmed that SYM/COT and COT are well tolerated and accepted suggesting that SYM/COT is a good alternative for COT as comfort gloves in patients with hand dermatoses. Individual requirements, needs, and preferences may direct the material choice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the assessment of new evidence, the World Health Organization (WHO) updated its guidelines for the treatment of drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) in December 2022. The new recommendations and the latest study data made it necessary to update the existing guideline on the treatment of at least rifampicin-resistant TB (RR-TB) for the German-speaking countries, replacing the respective chapters of the treatment guidelines published in 2022. A shortened treatment of proven RR-TB and multidrug-resistant TB for at least 6 months using the fixed and non-modifiable drug combination of bedaquiline, pretomanid, linezolid, and moxifloxacin (BPaLM) is now also recommended for Austria, Germany, and Switzerland under certain conditions considering the existing barriers for the implementation of the new treatment regimen. For the treatment of pre-extensively drug-resistant (pre-XDR-) TB, an individualized treatment for 18 months continues to be the primary recommendation. The non-modifiable drug combination of bedaquiline, pretomanid, and linezolid (BPaL) may be used alternatively in selected pre-XDR-TB cases, provided that all prerequisites are met. The necessary requirements for using BPaLM and BPaL are presented in detail in this amendment to the consensus-based TB treatment guideline for adult patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The underlying mechanisms of post-COVID syndrome (PCS) are still not fully understood. While pre-existing conditions have been described as a risk factor for severe PCS in the general population, data specific to different occupational groups in this context is lacking. This study aimed to investigate the impact of pre-existing conditions on severe post-COVID syndrome among the occupational group of healthcare and social services employees. Methods: Baseline data from a longitudinal, observational study were analysed. In February 2021, health workers who had a COVID-19 infection in 2020 were surveyed about sequelae of the infection. Factors influencing severe PCS with at least one persistent symptom categorised as severe were subjected to a multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results: Of a total of 2,053 participants, 21.5% had severe PCS. Underlying respiratory (OR 1.94; CI 1.44–2.61), cardiovascular (OR 1.35; CI 1.04–1.77) and urogenital (OR 1.79; CI 1.10–2.91) disease were risk factors for severe PCS overall. Respiratory and mental illnesses had a statistically significant impact on persistent fatigue/exhaustion, concentration/memory difficulties and shortness of breath categorised as severe. Urogenital disease was associated with severe fatigue/exhaustion. Other significant risk factors for severe PCS were female sex, smoking, physical exercise and hospitalisation due to COVID-19 infection. Conclusion: Workers in healthcare and social services with pre-existing conditions may face a higher risk of developing severe PCS. Additional analyses performed as part of the longitudinal study will show if and how this result changes over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: N95 or Type II filtering face pieces (FFP2) are often worn during work hours or on public transportation to prevent airborne infection. The aim of this randomized controlled crossover study is to assess the impact of FFP2 induced breathing resistance on pulmonary function, blood gas values and discomfort during walking and stair climbing. Methods: N = 16 healthy adults (24.8 ± 2.2 years; 10 females,) participated. Interventions included (1) six minutes of walking in a 16-meter-long hallway (612 m) and (2) eight minutes of stair climbing in a two-story staircase (420 stairs), both with and without a FFP2 (> 48 h wash-out). Spiroergometric data (Ventilation, breathing frequency, tidal volume, oxygen uptake and carbon dioxide exhalation (primary outcome), end tidal carbon dioxide- and oxygen pressure) and self-reported response (Perceived exertion, dyspnoea and pain) were assessed during activities. Blood gas analysis (capillary carbon dioxide- (pCO2) (primary outcome) and oxygen partial pressure (pO2), pH, lactate and base excess) was measured immediately after cessation of activities. Manipulation effects (FFP2 versus no mask) were tested using repeated measures analyses of variance. Results: Analysis showed no effect of FFP2 on pCO2 or other blood-gas parameters but on carbon dioxide exhalation during walking: (mean 1067, SD 209 ml/min) (mean 1908, SD 426 ml/min) (F(15) = 19.5; p < 0.001; ηp2 = 0.566) compared to no mask wearing (mean 1237, SD 173 ml/min; mean 1908, SD 426 ml/min). Ventilation was decreased and dyspnoea was increased by FFP2 during activities. FFP2 led to lower oxygen uptake and lower end tidal oxygen but higher end tidal carbon dioxide during stair climbing. Conclusions: FFP2 decreased ventilation based on slower breathing patterns and led to limitations in pulmonary gas exchange and increased subjective dyspnoea. However, invasive diagnostics revealed no signs of clinically relevant metabolic effects immediately after everyday physical activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dentists, including endodontists, frequently experience musculoskeletal disorders due to unfavourable working postures. Several measures are known to reduce the ergonomic risk; however, there are still gaps in the research, particularly in relation to dental work in the different oral regions (Quadrants 1–4). Methods: In this study (of a pilot character), a total of 15 dentists (8 male and 7 female) specialising in endodontics were measured while performing root canal treatments on a phantom head. These measurements took place in a laboratory setting using an inertial motion capture system. A slightly modified Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) coding system was employed for the analysis of kinematic data. The significance level was set at p = 0.05. Results: The ergonomic risk for the entire body was higher in the fourth quadrant than in the first quadrant for 80% of the endodontists and higher than in the second quadrant for 87%. For 87% of the endodontists, the ergonomic risk for the right side of the body was significantly higher in the fourth quadrant compared to the first and second quadrant. The right arm was stressed more in the lower jaw than in the upper jaw, and the neck also showed a greater ergonomic risk in the fourth quadrant compared to the first quadrant. Conclusion: In summary, both the total RULA score and scores for the right- and lefthand sides of the body ranged between 5 and 6 out of a possible 7 points. Considering this considerable burden, heightened attention, especially to the fourth quadrant with a significantly higher ergonomic risk compared to Quadrants 1 and 2, may be warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concerns are repeatedly raised about possible adverse respiratory effects of wearing filtering face pieces (FFP) during physical activity. This study compared the impact of FFP type 2 (NF95) on pulmonary function, blood gas values, metabolism and discomfort during light, moderate and vigorous physical activity. Healthy adults (n = 13; 6 females, 7 males; mean 31.3, SD 5.5 years) participated in this randomized two-armed (Ergometer cycling with a FFP type 2 vs. no mask) crossover trial. Baseline cardiopulmonary exercise testing and two interventions (masked and unmasked ergometer cycling 40%, 50% and 70% VO2max, 10 min each) were separated by 48 h washout periods. Spiroergometric data (End tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure PetCO2; breathing frequency; inspiration time), blood gas analysis outcomes (capillary carbon dioxide partial pressure, pCO2) and subjective response (Breathing effort and perceived exertion) were contrasted between conditions using ANOVAs. All participants completed the crossover trial, seven started with the FFP2 condition (No adverse events or side effects). FFP2 decreased breathing frequency, prolonged inspiration time, increased perceived breathing effort and PetCO2 (p <.05). Blood pCO2 in millimetres mercury increased during exercise with 50%VO2max (mean 36.67, SD 3.19 vs. mean 38.46, SD 2.57; p <.05) and 70%VO2max (35.04, 2.84 vs. 38.17, 3.43; p <.05) but not during exercise with 40%VO2max (36.55, 2.73 vs. 38.70). Perceived exertion was not affected (p > 0.05) by mask wearing. Conclusion: Mask-induced breathing resistance decreased respiratory performance and limited pulmonary gas exchange. While FFP2 affected subjective breathing effort per se, invasive diagnostics showed that statistically significant metabolic effects are induced from moderate intensity upwards. Trial registration: DRKS-ID: DRKS00030181, Date of registration: 05/09/2022 (German Register for Clinical Trials). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective Occupations involving repetitive movements of the wrists, activities that require a lot of force, and hand-arm swinging are particularly likely to contribute to the development of hand and wrist complaints. The daily setup and dismantling of dialysis machines as part of the dialysis treatment process can strain the wrists and fingers of nurses. However, evidence regarding the relationship between the work activities of dialysis nurses and the incidence of hand and wrist complaints is limited. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and severity of hand and wrist complaints among dialysis nurses in Germany and to relate these to their work activities. Methods An online survey was created and sent to 836 dialysis centres in Germany. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used in an online survey to assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints in the hands and wrists. The Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) was used to assess symptom severity. Dialysis nurses rated the effort required to set up dialysis machines using the BORG-CR10 scale. The analysis was descriptive. Results A total of 122 dialysis nurses (18 male, 104 female; mean age 45 ± 12 years) participated in the survey, and 59% of them reported developing hands or wrist complaints in the last 12 months. According to BCTQ, the average severity of these complaints is 2.0 ± 0.8 (N = 72). The severity of symptoms increased significantly with the number of setups performed by a dialysis nurse per day (r s = 0.35, P  = 0.003, N = 72). The nurses rated the effort required to set up the dialysis machines as 2.8 ± 1.8 on the BORG-CR10 scale (N = 101). Discussion The results of the online survey showed that dialysis nurses were more likely than the general population to experience hand and wrist complaints. The repetitive activities of the hands and wrists while setting up a dialysis machine are thought to be the cause. Conclusions Preventive measures are needed to reduce hand and wrist strain in dialysis nurses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Zentralblatt fuer Arbeitsmedizin, Arbeitsschutz und Ergonomie is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Zentralblatt fuer Arbeitsmedizin, Arbeitsschutz und Ergonomie is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: The prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders is high in oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OS) due to their static and contorted working positions. Hence, the aim of this study was to conduct posture analyses in this specific group of dental professionals using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA). Methods: In total, 15 (12 m/3 f) OS participated in this study. An inertial motion capture system (Xsens) was used to collect kinematic data during a simulated workflow. Computer-based routines calculated the RULA score for the extracted joint angles at each defined time point. Then, an analysis of the time-dependent RULA scores by body regions was conducted. Key variables were the relative occurrence of specific RULA scores during the complete workflow, individual subtasks, and for treatment of each of the four different dental quadrants. The subtasks and dental quadrants were compared using the Friedman test. Results: The total median RULA score represented a high risk for OS during their work (7), including the temporal component (OS spent 77.54% of their working time with a RULA score of 7). The wrists and hands, elbows, lower arms, and the neck were exposed to postures with the highest risk for musculoskeletal strain. Discussion: For OS, both the right and the left assisting hand were heavily strained while working on the first dental quadrant caused the most unfavorable postures for OS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Prävention und Gesundheitsförderung is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Medizinische Klinik: Intensivmedizin & Notfallmedizin is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: For many entrants, the initial stages of professional training are a challenge. Demands at work can lead to new physical and psychological stress, as well as new social requirements. These new requirements can influence the health behaviour and the state of health of young employees. In recent years, there have been many studies on health literacy (HL). HL represents resources and potentials that allow individuals to achieve improved control of their health and of factors that influence health. Thus, HL can influence both well-being and health. In the present study, the health of trainees in different branches (health and welfare services, office, sales, technology) is monitored over time ending in the period of the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the association between health literacy and health or health behaviour has been examined. Methods: In 2017/18, a baseline survey (T0) was performed on trainees in various sectors (office, sales, teaching, nursing and social welfare, engineering, hairdressers), who had been contacted through vocational colleges in four federal states in north Germany. The trainees were surveyed again in the in the first year after training in 2021 (T3). Demographic data were collected, as well as information on health literacy (HLS-EU-16), health behaviour (physical exercise, nutrition, smoking and alcohol) and state of health (BMI, psychological well-being and subjective state of health). Recognition, satisfaction at work and thoughts of leaving the profession were surveyed with the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ). Statistical analysis was performed with tests for paired samples and multivariate regression analysis in SPSS 26. Results: 129 data sets were evaluated, with a follow-up rate of 10.2%. 85% of the trainees were female. The mean age at follow-up was 25.6 years. 56% were employed in the health service or social welfare. 35% worked in the office, sales or engineering. At T3, 47% of the employees exhibited limited health literacy, 67% low levels of exercise and 30% risky alcohol use. 42% exhibited overweight and 42% poor psychological well-being. An association between health literacy (HL) and psychological well-being was only observed in cross-section (HL inadequate vs. HL adequate OR: 3.2 95% CI: 1.07–9.49, p = 0.037). The odds ratio relative to subjective state of health was also increased, although the association was not statistically significant (HL inadequate vs. HL adequate OR: 2.7 95% CI: 0.72–9.78, p = 0.143). In the sector for health service and social welfare, there was statistically significant deterioration over time in all COPSOQ variables (recognition, satisfaction at work, thoughts of leaving the profession). Conclusions: For a group of trainees in the first year of work during the covid-19 epidemic, the present findings show that there is a need to prevent risky health behaviour, overweight and poor psychological well-being. Health literacy was shown to be a modifiable parameter, that apparently is associated in cross – but not in longitudinal section with the health of young employees. It would appear to be reasonable to modify developing health literacy in the setting of work and school. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allergic contact dermatitis to accelerators in rubber gloves marketed as accelerator-free Keywords: accelerator-free; allergic contact dermatitis; carbamates; case report; hand eczema; rubber glove; thiurams; work-related EN accelerator-free allergic contact dermatitis carbamates case report hand eczema rubber glove thiurams work-related 65 68 4 06/12/23 20230701 NES 230701 Contact allergies to rubber accelerators used in the production of protective gloves, including thiurams, dithiocarbamates, benzothiazoles, and 1,3-diphenylguanidine are frequent in patients with work-related hand eczema, particularly in cleaning personnel, food handlers and healthcare workers.[[1]] To find suitable protective gloves for these individuals remains a challenge. Despite being marketed as accelerator-free, classified as medical device and labelled with EN 455-3, the analysis revealed that the selected "accelerator-free" glove SHIELDskin Orange Nitrile 300 contained three accelerators of which two were dithiocarbamates, explaining the positive patch test reaction to the glove in our patient. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Semipermeable membranes might be suitable for glove liners or comfort gloves in individuals with irritant contact dermatitis (ICD). Objectives: To evaluate the effects of different glove materials on inflammation and epidermal barrier impairment after experimental skin irritation. Methods: Nine test areas on the volar forearms of 24 healthy volunteers were irritated with sodium lauryl sulfate (1%) and afterward covered for 6 days (6 or 8 h/day) with semipermeable Sympatex (SYM), vinyl (OCC), combinations of vinyl with Sympatex (SYM/OCC) or cotton (COT/OCC), or left uncovered (CON). Up to day 10, measurements of transepidermal water loss (TEWL), erythema (a*), skin humidity (SH) and visual scoring (VS) were applied. Results: No significant differences in skin parameters were found between COT/OCC and SYM/OCC as well as between each of the combinations and CON. SYM, COT/OCC and SYM/OCC led to better results for most skin parameters than OCC alone. Conclusions: Occlusive material has a negative impact on skin barrier recovery and inflammation after skin irritation whereas SYM is not inferior to uncovered areas indicating good tolerability. Altogether, the data suggest that SYM is a useful alternative to COT as material for glove liners and comfort gloves in ICD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Everyday Discrimination Scale (EDS) is a frequently used questionnaire in the field of health and social psychology that aims to explore perceptions of discrimination, especially instances of injustice related to various diversity characteristics. No adaptation to health care staff exists. The present study translates and adapts the EDS to nursing staff in Germany and examines its reliability and factorial validity as well as its measurement equivalence between men and women and different age groups. Methods: The study was based on an online survey conducted among health care staff of two hospitals and two inpatient care facilities in Germany. The EDS was translated using a forward-backward translation approach. Direct maximum likelihood confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to examine the factorial validity of the adapted EDS. Differential item functioning (DIF) related to age and sex was investigated by means of multiple indicators, multiple causes (MIMIC) models. Results: Data on 302 individuals was available, of whom 237 (78.5%) were women. The most commonly employed one-factor, 8-item baseline model of the adapted EDS showed a poor fit (RMSEA = 0.149; CFI = 0.812; TLI = 0.737; SRMR = 0.072). The model fit improved considerably after including three error covariances between items 1 and 2, items 4 and 5, and items 7 and 8 (RMSEA = 0.066; CFI = 0.969; TLI = 0.949; SRMR = 0.036). Item 4 showed DIF related to sex and age, item 6 showed DIF related to age. DIF was moderate in size and did not bias the comparison between men and women or between younger and older employees. Conclusions: The EDS can be considered a valid instrument for the assessment of discrimination experiences among nursing staff. Given that the questionnaire, similar to other EDS adaptations, may be prone to DIF and also considering that some error covariances need to be parameterized, latent variable modelling should be used for the analysis of the questionnaire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Everyday Discrimination Scale (EDS) is a frequently used questionnaire in the field of health and social psychology that aims to explore perceptions of discrimination, especially instances of injustice related to various diversity characteristics. No adaptation to health care staff exists. The present study translates and adapts the EDS to nursing staff in Germany and examines its reliability and factorial validity as well as its measurement equivalence between men and women and different age groups. Methods: The study was based on an online survey conducted among health care staff of two hospitals and two inpatient care facilities in Germany. The EDS was translated using a forward-backward translation approach. Direct maximum likelihood confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to examine the factorial validity of the adapted EDS. Differential item functioning (DIF) related to age and sex was investigated by means of multiple indicators, multiple causes (MIMIC) models. Results: Data on 302 individuals was available, of whom 237 (78.5%) were women. The most commonly employed one-factor, 8-item baseline model of the adapted EDS showed a poor fit (RMSEA = 0.149; CFI = 0.812; TLI = 0.737; SRMR = 0.072). The model fit improved considerably after including three error covariances between items 1 and 2, items 4 and 5, and items 7 and 8 (RMSEA = 0.066; CFI = 0.969; TLI = 0.949; SRMR = 0.036). Item 4 showed DIF related to sex and age, item 6 showed DIF related to age. DIF was moderate in size and did not bias the comparison between men and women or between younger and older employees. Conclusions: The EDS can be considered a valid instrument for the assessment of discrimination experiences among nursing staff. Given that the questionnaire, similar to other EDS adaptations, may be prone to DIF and also considering that some error covariances need to be parameterized, latent variable modelling should be used for the analysis of the questionnaire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Zentralblatt fuer Arbeitsmedizin, Arbeitsschutz und Ergonomie is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: The Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) is used for the risk assessment of workplace-related activities. Thus far, the paper and pen method (RULA-PP) has been predominantly used for this purpose. In the present study, this method was compared with an RULA evaluation based on kinematic data using inertial measurement units (RULA-IMU). The aim of this study was, on the one hand, to work out the differences between these two measurement methods and, on the other, to make recommendations for the future use of the respective method on the basis of the available findings. Methods: For this purpose, 130 (dentists + dental assistants, paired as teams) subjects from the dental profession were photographed in an initial situation of dental treatment and simultaneously recorded with the IMU system (Xsens). In order to compare both methods statistically, the median value of the difference of both methods, the weighted Cohen's Kappa, and the agreement chart (mosaic plot) were applied. Results: In Arm and Wrist Analysis—area A—here were differences in risk scores; here, the median difference was 1, and the agreement in the weighted Cohen's kappa test also remained between 0.07 and 0.16 (no agreement to poor agreement). In area B—Neck, Trunk, and Leg Analysis—the median difference was 0, with at least one poor agreement in the Cohen's Kappa test of 0.23–0.39. The final score has a median of 0 and a Cohen's Kappa value of 0.21–0.28. In the mosaic plot, it can be seen that RULA-IMU had a higher discriminatory power overall and more often reached a value of 7 than RULA-PP. Conclusion: The results indicate a systematic difference between the methods. Thus, in the RULA risk assessment, RULA-IMU is mostly one assessment point above RULA-PP. Therefore, future study results of RULA by RULA-IMU can be compared with literature results obtained by RULA-PP to further improve the risk assessment of musculoskeletal diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Healthcare workers employed in emergency departments (EDs) are particularly affected by physical and verbal violence. Violent assaults can be committed by both patients and their attendants. Research on interventions for violence prevention is limited and previous studies report that ED employees feel unprepared for violent incidents. Thus, the current study aims to explore ED staff's perceptions regarding available prevention measures, their effectiveness, barriers, and further needs in terms of violence prevention. Methods: In accordance with the qualitative study design, 27 semi-structured interviews were conducted via telephone with doctors and nurses working in direct contact with patients in German EDs. Main subjects were advantages and disadvantages of currently available measures, barriers regarding their implementation, their perceived effectiveness, as well as further needs concerning violence prevention. The transcribed interviews were analysed according to Mayring's qualitative content analysis. Results: Participants described environmental (e.g., alarm systems), organisational (e.g., security service), and individual-focused measures (staff training, verbal de-escalation). Measures perceived as effective were, for instance, communication and security service. Both demands and barriers were often related to financial constraints, e.g., staff shortage led to higher workloads and less time to consider violence prevention. In most cases, guidelines or standard operating procedures (SOPs) regarding violence prevention were missing, unknown, or not perceived as helpful in their current form. Furthermore, screening tools were not applied in any of the EDs. Conclusions: The workload in EDs needs to be decreased in order to enable violence prevention, e.g., by reducing patient inflow or by increasing personnel. In addition, violence prevention guidelines tailored to the requirements of the respective ED need to be developed. Hospitals should supply ED staff with such guidelines, e.g., in the form of SOPs, but more importantly, prevention measures have to be practiced and communicated. Furthermore, there is a need for research on the implementation of screening tools for violent behaviour, so that the focus would shift from managing violence to preventing violence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of GMS Hygiene & Infection Control is the property of German Medical Science Publishing House gGmbH and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of GMS Hygiene & Infection Control is the property of German Medical Science Publishing House gGmbH and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: For dental professionals, musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are common health hazards and resistance training programmes have been promising approaches in the quest for a reduction in the pain intensity of these professionals. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to investigate the effect of a trunk-oriented 10-week resistance training programme. Method: In total, the study was conducted with 17 dentists and dental assistants (3 m/14 f) over a course of 10 weeks, with workouts being performed 2 times a week using a 60 min intervention programme consisting of 11 resistance training exercises. The outcome values that were collected were the pain intensity (visual analogue scale (VAS) combined with a modified version of the Nordic Questionnaire), the MVIC and the rapid upper limb assessment (RULA) score (based on data from inertial motion units) during a standardised dental treatment protocol. Results: A significant reduction in pain intensity was found for each queried body region: the neck, upper back, lower back and the right and left shoulders. The maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) improved significantly in all outcome measures: flexion, extension, right and left lateral flexion and right and left rotation. Conclusions: A 10-week resistance training programme for dentists and dental assistants had significant effects on pain intensity reduction and the MVIC of the musculature of the trunk and is, therefore, suitable as a behavioural preventive measure against MSD in dental professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Veterinary assistants and veterinarians are at an increased risk of developing an occupational skin disease, for example, irritant/allergic contact dermatitis, contact urticaria and hand eczema (HE). Objectives: We aimed to investigate the prevalence of skin problems and the influence of predisposing factors especially among veterinary assistants. Methods: We conducted a cross‐sectional study among veterinary assistant staff (n = 103) and veterinarians (n = 19). A questionnaire, specific IgE determination and photographs of hands were evaluated for skin symptoms. Logistic regression models assessed predisposing factors. Results: Over 50% (n = 62/122) of our study population reported hand eczema (HE) in the last 12 months (1‐year prevalence). Twenty‐seven subjects reported redness and contact urticaria directly after animal contact, 35 had a positive history of allergic contact dermatitis. HE was associated with (i) increased frequency of hand washing (11–15 times per day; OR 4.15, confidence interval [CI] 95% 1.18–14.6, p = 0.027, univariate model) and (ii) unprotected contact to fluids and tensides >5 times per day (OR 4.56, CI 95% 1.53–13.6, multivariate model). Conclusions: We observed a high prevalence of self‐reported HE among staff in veterinary practices. Excessive hand washing, unprotected contact with irritants and long‐term glove use should be avoided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Working in forced postures and standing continuously can be classified as straining the musculoskeletal system. OBJECTIVE: Since such postures are frequently used in hospital canteen kitchens, we used kinematic analysis to determine the working postures of canteen kitchen staff. METHODS: In this study, the daily work routine of 18 (11 w/7 m) workers of a hospital canteen kitchen (Frankfurt Main/Germany) aged 21–62 years (46±13 years) was examined by means of kinematic analysis (CULEA system; IFA; Sankt Augustin/Germany) and a detailed computerized analysis of the activities performed on-site. Angle values of the head and trunk were evaluated in accordance with ergonomic standards and presented using percentile values (P05-P95). The OWAS method was also employed to capture the proportions of standing, walking and sitting work. RESULTS: The kinematic posture analysis showed for all activities on the conveyor belt a tendency towards a dorsally inclined body position: trunk inclination (–7.5° to 0), thoracic spine inclination or a bending forward (–11.3° to 0°) and curvature of the back within the thoracic spine (–15.2° to 0°). In addition, >90% of the "activities on the belt" (46% of the daily working routine) were carried out standing. CONCLUSION: The activities on the conveyor belt were characterized by a tendency towards hyperextension of the trunk, possibly due to a too high working environment. Furthermore, an increased burden on body structures while standing can be concluded. From a primary prevention perspective, this increased standing load should be reduced by behavioral and relational prevention measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Semipermeable gloves might be an alternative to cotton gloves in management of hand dermatoses. Objectives: To compare acceptance and tolerability of gloves made of cotton or a semipermeable Sympatex membrane in patients with hand dermatoses and their effect on skin lesions when worn overnight. Methods: A total of 199 patients with work‐related symmetrical hand dermatoses were asked to wear a cotton glove (COT) on one hand and a Sympatex glove underneath a cotton glove (SYM/COT) on the other hand for 19 consecutive nights. The severity of skin lesions was regularly examined. A questionnaire on acceptance and tolerability was used in a subset of 126 patients. Results: Data on skin lesions were available for 183 participating patients (92%). The severity did not differ substantially between hands covered with SYM/COT or COT over time. Questionnaire data were available for 120 patients (95%). SYM/COT received better ratings regarding climate conditions while COT showed superiority in wearing comfort, practicality and appearance. Conclusions: Both SYM/COT and COT were well tolerated and accepted in patients with hand dermatoses. Hence, SYM/COT may serve as suitable alternative for COT as comfort gloves supporting therapeutic efforts. The observed slight differences may influence the decision when selecting the glove type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Mask induced airway resistance and carbon dioxide rebreathing is discussed to impact gas exchange and to induce discomfort and impairments in cognitive performance. N = 23 healthy humans (13 females, 10 males; 23.5 ± 2.1 years) participated in this randomized crossover trial (3 arms, 48-h washout periods). During interventions participants wore either a surgical face mask (SM), a filtering face piece (FFP2) or no mask (NM). Interventions included a 20-min siting period and 20 min steady state cycling on an ergometer at 77% of the maximal heart rate (HR). Hemodynamic data (HR, blood pressure), metabolic outcomes (pulse derived oxygen saturation, capillary carbon dioxide (pCO2), and oxygen partial pressure (pO2), lactate, pH, base excess), subjective response (ability to concentrate, arousal, perceived exertion) and cognitive performance (Stroop Test) were assessed. Compared to NM, both masks increased pCO2 (NM 31.9 ± 3.3 mmHg, SM = 35.2 ± 4.0 mmHg, FFP2 = 34.5 ± 3.8 mmHg, F = 12.670, p < 0.001) and decreased pH (NM = 7.42 ± 0.03, SM = 7.39 ± 0.03, FFP2 = 7.39 ± 0.04, F = 11.4, p < 0.001) during exercise. The FFP2 increased blood pressure during exercise (NM = 158 ± 15 mmHg, SM = 159 ± 16 mmHg, FFP2 = 162 ± 17 mmHg, F = 3.21, p = 0.050), the SM increased HR during sitting (NM = 70 ± 8 bpm, SM = 74 ± 8 bpm, FFP2 = 73 ± 8 bpm, F = 4.70, p = 0.014). No mask showed any comparative effect on other hemodynamic, metabolic, subjective, or cognitive outcomes. Mask wearing leads to slightly increased cardiovascular stress and elevated carbon dioxide levels during exercise but did not affect cognitive performance or wellbeing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to ongoing demographic changes, the need for care is increasing in Germany. The number of outpatient care services is also rising, and with it, the number of employees in outpatient care, who are also continuously becoming older. Workplace health promotion (WHP) becomes relevant in this context, as it can reduce negative strain reactions and promote employees' health. The aim of this study was (1) to reveal implemented WHP interventions in German outpatient care services; (2) to examine the potential challenges regarding a successful implementation of WHP measures; and (3) to illuminate further requests and needs experienced by outpatient careworkers. In qualitative field research, 30 semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with German caregivers, using the problem-centered interview method. The collected data were deductively and inductively evaluated and interpreted, using qualitative content analysis according to Mayring. Outpatient caregivers reported various WHP measures known from their workplaces, such as the provision of fruit baskets, programmes to increase physical activity, or a subsidy for a personal gym. They further reported WHP, such as back training, known from other care services. However, the respondents spoke of the challenges regarding the implementation or the use of WHP interventions in general. The most frequently named barriers were a lack of time after work and interventions that were only offered in their leisure time. In the same course, the participants still needed offers to increase physical activity, joint activities, or relaxation techniques. However, respondents highlighted that they preferred the interventions to take place during working hours. This way, they would also be more likely to take advantage of the interventions. The results of this study provide an insight into various WHP measures that already exist, or that are desirable for implementation with regard to caregivers' needs. Subjectively perceived challenges for a successful implementation of WHP measures represent the importance of adjustments in the work organization of caregivers. It becomes clear that WHP is not yet established in the ambulant care sector, although it appears to be imperative for keeping caregivers healthy. Considering the different needs of employees, the results can provide a basis for the development of needs-based health promotion measures for caregivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Bundesgesundheitsblatt - Gesundheitsforschung - Gesundheitsschutz is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)