Search

Conducting field research with a vulnerable population is difficult under the most auspicious conditions, and these difficulties only increase during a pandemic. Here, we describe the practical challenges and ethical considerations surrounding a recent data collection effort with a high-risk population during the COVID-19 pandemic. We detail our strategies related to research design, site selection, and ethical review.

We describe the human factors analysis and redesign of the radiotherapy paper chart used at the radiotherapy unit of Rambam Medical Center. The chart is a paper form used by multiple team members. It is the main record of relevant information and treatment orders. It also serves as the major follow up and quality control tool. As such, the chart is a major communication, reference and decision making aid, which has a direct influence on the treatment quality and patients safety and health. Analysis of the existing chart revealed multiple content and format design problems, which raise the probability of errors. The new design of the chart attempts to resolve these problems. At present, it has been adopted by the unit and hospital and is in the process of being produced and introduced to the unit.

SummaryHaemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN), in the fifth child of an Israeli of Moroccan origin, disclosed anti‐Tar in the serum of the mother. This anti‐Tar, the second reported example, is the first to cause HDN and was stimulated by previous pregnancies. Tests on blood from the family show that the Tar antigen in this family is associated with a CDecomplex which gives rise to a weak expression of the D antigen. A study of 1327 donors in Jerusalem revealed one Tar + propositus.