Search

BACKGROUND: While absenteeism refers to not attending work, presenteeism is defined as not being present at work. These two conditions, which negatively affect employee health, can be indicators of work efficiency, work peace, work safety and work engagement. OBJECTIVE: Several factors were evaluated in this study concerning absenteeism and presenteeism among factory workers. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted among workers in a factory operating in a heavy industry in southern Turkey in 2021. A survey consisting of 57 questions was applied to 152 factory workers by face-to-face interview method. The participants' behaviour over the last month was evaluated regarding absenteeism and presenteeism. RESULTS: It was reported that 24 (15.8%) of all employees were absent from work in the last month (absenteeism), excluding holidays and sick leave, and that 20 (13.2%) employees engaged in presenteeism, working when they should not have been at the workplace. There was a high absenteeism rate among employees who had an acute illness and were dissatisfied with their jobs. Several factors have been associated with presenteeism, including poor economic conditions, family health problems, previous unemployment, working overtime, job dissatisfaction, poor relationships with colleagues and difficulty finding a replacement, acute illness, sleep problems and fatigue. CONCLUSIONS: To increase the productivity and commitment of employees, it may be useful to identify the reasons for absenteeism and present behaviours, to facilitate effective interpersonal communication skills by examining the organisational climate of employees, and to regulate workload based on a comprehensive assessment of the health status of employees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Earthquakes disproportionately affect women and exacerbate gender and social inequalities. This study aims to investigate the psychological impact of the earthquake in Türkiye on women and the associated factors. Methods This is a survey-based study. We collected data from 498 women residing in cities most affected by the earthquake. Results Participants' mean age was 27.72 ± 5.4. Over 78% of the participants lost at least one family member, and 43.7% lost at least one child due to the earthquake. The mean average of Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI) scores was 100.8 (SD = 8.37), and the Global Severity Index was 1.9 (SD = 0.16). Regression analysis showed that higher education levels predicted poor outcomes across most BSI dimensions. Losing a family member and shelter and injury status were also predictors for several mental health outcomes of the BSI subscales. Conclusions Earthquakes significantly impact women's well-being and may have a broader impact on the whole family. There is an urgent need to provide psycho-social interventions in the response and recovery phases of the crisis to meet the affected women's needs. This includes providing basic needs with attention to women-specific needs, restoring social networks, addressing gender-based violence and providing gender-sensitive specialized interventions for those who need further support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aim: The most commonly prescribed anti-seizures medications (ASMs) for the treatment of epilepsy are currently topiramate, zonisamide, lacosamide, carbamazepine and levetiracetam. The objective of this study was to examine the correlation between preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative metabolic acidosis and the use of ASMs prior to craniotomy operations. Materials and methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study evaluated patients who underwent intracranial surgery with craniotomy under general anaesthesia between May 2020 and April 2023 and used ASMs. The patients were classified into four groups based on the pharmacological mechanisms of action of the ASMs administered before intracranial surgery (Group-I, zonisamide or topiramate; Group-II, lacosamide; Group-III, carbamazepine; Group-IV, levetiracetam). Metabolic acidosis severity was defined based on base excess (BE) levels: mild (-3 to -5), moderate (-5 to -10), and severe (below − 10). The study investigated the correlation between ASMs and the severity of metabolic acidosis in preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative blood gas measurements. Results: Out of 35 patients, 24 patients underwent intracranial surgery and 11 patients underwent epilepsy surgery. There were statistically significant differences in the severity of metabolic acidosis between preoperative (p < 0.001), intraoperative (p < 0.001) and postoperative (p = 0.01) groups. The preoperative mean BE of group-I was − 4.7, which was statistically lower than that of group-III (p = 0.01) and group-IV (p < 0.001). Intraoperatively and postoperatively, group-I had a mean BE of -7.5 and − 3.2, respectively, which was statistically lower than that of groups II (p = 0.007; p = 0.04), III (p = 0.002; p = 0.03), and IV (p < 0.001; p = 0.009). There was no statistically significant difference in BE between groups II, III and IV at all three time points. Group I had the lowest BE at all three time points. Intraoperative bicarbonate was administered to all patients in group I, whereas no intraoperative bicarbonate was required in the other groups. In group I, 50% of patients required postoperative intensive care. Conclusion: The use of ASMs in patients undergoing surgery is important in terms of mortality and morbidity. Topirimat and zonisamide are ASMs that can cause preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative metabolic acidosis. Patients receiving topirimat or zonisamide are particularly susceptible to metabolic acidosis. Special care should be taken in the management of anaesthesia in patients receiving these drugs, and monitoring of the perioperative metabolic status is essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the incidence and severity of depression in patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Materials and Methods: The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was administered to 74 patients with RP and 60 healthy controls. Biomicroscopic anterior segment and fundus examination, visual field, optical coherence tomography, and full-field electroretinography tests were performed in all cases. Variables were evaluated with bivariate, multiple linear, and ordinal logistic regression analyses. Results: The RP group included 40 (54%) male and 34 (46%) female patients, while the control group included 23 (38%) male and 37 (62%) female subjects. The patient group had a mean age of 39.20±12.4 years, median best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 0.10 decimal (1.0 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution [logMAR]; range, 1.3-0.7 logMAR), and median visual field mean deviation (MD) score of -28.00 decibels (dB) (range, -1.00 to -34.00 dB). The median BDI score was statistically significantly higher in the patient group (19 points) than in the control group (12 points) (p<0.001). Moderate to severe depression (BDI ≥20) was detected in 61% of patients, while this rate was 25% in healthy controls. BCVA and visual field MD values were identified as predictors of depression score and severity level. The patients' age and gender did not affect total depression score or severity. Conclusion: The prevalence and severity of depression were found to be higher in RP patients than in healthy controls. There was a significant relationship between the patient's functional vision tests and the frequency and severity of depression. Depression reduces the reliability of visual function tests and impairs patients' quality of life. Therefore, assessing mental health as well as functional tests is important in patients with RP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Child abuse and neglect is a widespread and pressing issue, with serious and long-term adverse effects on children's physical and psychological health. Pediatricians play a crucial role in detecting and addressing cases; however, studies have shown challenges in reporting cases encountered in clinical practice. This study aims to examine pediatricians' attitudes towards reporting cases of child abuse and neglect encountered in their clinical practices, as well as the factors influencing these attitudes. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among pediatricians in Istanbul. Data collected included sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge and formal training about child neglect and abuse, attitudes about dealing with it, experience, and reporting behavior. The data was collected through a self-administered online questionnaire. The study provides insights into the current awareness and response of Istanbul's pediatricians towards child neglect and abuse. The data were analyzed using SPSS 22, employing descriptive and comparative statistics such as frequency, mean, standard deviation, and correlation tests. Ethical approval was obtained from the Istanbul Medipol University Ethics Committee. The study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and online consent was obtained from the participants. Results: The study involved 126 pediatricians. Results showed that pediatricians had generally positive attitudes toward reporting child neglect and abuse. Gender and marital status did not significantly influence attitudes, but pediatricians who were parents scored higher on reporting Responsibility. Additionally, it was shown that those with more professional experience had a higher reporting responsibility score. Structured training on child abuse and neglect has been shown to increase pediatricians' reporting responsibility scores and exhibit less anxious attitudes. Conclusion: This study highlights pediatricians' positive attitudes toward reporting child abuse and neglect and identifies influencing factors such as training, professional experience, and collaboration. It emphasizes the importance of addressing challenges like awareness of reporting procedures and concerns about negative consequences. Comprehensive training, clear reporting protocols, and multidisciplinary collaboration are essential for increasing reporting rates and improving the detection of child abuse and neglect. The study contributes to enhancing child protection systems in Turkey by providing insights into pediatricians' attitudes toward reporting child abuse and neglect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of University of Health Sciences Journal of Nursing is the property of Saglik Bilimleri Universitesi 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.)

The present study aimed to explore the perceptions of spirituality and spiritual care among nurses who work in three different countries with different cultures as well as the factors influencing their perception. This is a cross-sectional multicultural study conducted with a total of 1090 nurses from Türkiye, Albania, and Italy. Data were collected through the "Individual Information Form" and the "Spirituality and Spiritual Care Rating Scale". Nurses' mean score on the Spirituality and Spiritual Care Rating Scale was above average. It was also found that country, marital status, religious belief, Islamic religion, training for spiritual care, and using spiritual practices to cope with difficulties or illnesses influenced nurses' perception of spirituality and spiritual care. It was concluded that nurses from the three countries associated spirituality and spiritual care with religion and that some personal characteristics influenced their perceptions of spiritual care. The results highlight the need for training in spiritual care to improve nurses' perceptions and practices of spiritual care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: It was previously shown that the levels of several biomarkers increase due to acromegaly disease-related inflammation, and some markers are parallel to the disease's activity. The current study compared the possible relationship of growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15) with acromegaly disease activity in healthy subjects. Methods: This case-control study was conducted in a single center. It included 40 acromegaly patients (25 active/15 controlled) (47.7 ± 9.4 years, 20 female/20 male) and 24 healthy individuals (49.9 ± 10.1 years, 13 female/11 male) with age-sex-body mass index similar to the patient group. Demographic data, metabolic and hormonal parameters, and GDF-15 levels of the study population were studied. Results: The median GDF-15 levels were significantly higher in patients with acromegaly compared to healthy subjects (HS) (280.4 (Q1-Q3: 197.0-553.2) vs. 213.3 (Q1-Q3: 179.9-297.2) ng/L, P = .01). Serum GDF-15 levels of active and controlled acromegaly patients were comparable (P = .39). Interestingly, compared to HS, GDF-15 levels were significantly higher in controlled disease (P = .013), whereas GDF-15 levels tended to be higher in active disease but did not reach statistical significance (P = .06). Growth differentiation factor-15 levels were positively correlated with fasting plasma glucose (r = 0.304, P = .01) and HbA1c (r = 0.292, P = .02). When evaluated across the entire cohort, GDF-15 levels were found to be higher in diabetic patients compared to non-diabetic individuals (P = .04). Conclusion: Plasma GDF-15 levels were increased in the patients with acromegaly compared to healthy subjects. This increment may be due to accompanying diseases such as diabetes rather than a disease-specific effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of urinary tract infections in patients with urinary catheterization receiving home health services and the affecting factors. The population of this descriptive study consisted of patients who had lived in the central districts of Erzurum between February and March 2022, were actively registered to home health services, had a urinary catheter and met the research criteria. The period prevalence method (3 months) was used in the study, and 121 patients constituted the study sample. The study data were collected using a Sociodemographic and Information Form on Urinary Catheter. Before the home visit, patients' relatives were asked to clamp the urinary catheter. After completing the data collection forms, a sufficient amount of urine was taken from the attached urinary catheter, put into the urine and culture cup/tube, and labelled with a barcode. The samples were sent to the laboratory within 15 min at the latest. The medical specialist evaluated the results, and the necessary pharmacological treatment was delivered to the patient. Of the patients with indwelling urinary catheters who received home health services, 94.2% had a urinary tract infection. Moreover, it was determined that there was a statistically significant correlation between the presence of urinary tract infection in patients and the variables of constipation, frequency of perineal cleaning, and the use of toilet paper. It was concluded that the prevalence of urinary tract infections is very high in patients with urinary catheterization receiving home health services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The stress due to the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced the physical, mental, and social well-being of humans worldwide. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the relationship between the fear of COVID-19 and mental state of female employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 726 participants. Data was collected using the Personal Information Form, fear of COVID-19 scale, and brief symptom inventory. RESULTS: The fear experienced by women during the social isolation and quarantine period was associated with depression, anxiety, somatization, obsessive-compulsive disorder, interpersonal sensitivity, hostility, phobic anxiety and paranoid experiences. CONCLUSION: Women, young people, the elderly and single individuals were most likely affected psychologically during the pandemic. Thus, interventions and psychological evaluations are recommended at an early stage to minimize this effect. Such interventions must be implemented considering the strategic planning and coordination of risk groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Breast cancer (BC) is the most frequent cancer among women. Many BC patients suffer from sleep problems, which have a negative impact on their quality of life (QoL). Our study aims to investigate sleep problems in BC patients treated with active chemotherapy or in remission in comparison with a healthy control group (HCG), given the importance of sleep disorders and QoL. Materials and Methods: A multicenter, cross-sectional study was conducted. Four different surveys including sociodemographic characteristics questionnaire, Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), hospital anxiety and depression scale and The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer core quality of life questionnaire (QLQ-C30) were used to collect study parameters. Results: Of 164 participants, the mean age was 42.0±11.7 years. Overall PSQI median score for all participants was 6 points (range, 3-9 points). PSQI median value was higher in cancer patients compared to the control group, which were 6 points (range, 4-9 points), and 4 points (range, 3-7 points), respectively (p=0.004). The mean depression score was 5 points (range, 3-8 points) in BC patients, and 4 points (range, 2-6 points) in HCGs, respectively (p=0.025). Having BC diagnosis was an independent factor increasing the risk of bad sleep quality in compared to healthy controls (odds ratio: 2.568, 95% confidence interval: 1.169-5.645; p=0.019). Conclusion: There was a close association between poor sleep quality, depression and QoL scores in patients with BC. In patients with breast cancer, appropriate management of associated comorbidities will aid a better quality of life in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To examine the prevalence of smoking among medical faculty students in Turkey, and to explore the associations between smoking, depression, and other factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out among medical students in Konya, Turkey, from November 2018 to February 2019. The first section included eight questions pertaining to sociodemographic details. The second comprised nine questions addressing smoking and other harmful habits. The third section involved the Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence while the fourth was the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Results: The study was completed with a total of 1117 participants (90.2% of all students). In regard to smoking, 813 (72.78%) were non-smokers, 98 (8.77%) were ex-smokers, and 222 (19.87%) were active smokers. Notably, 16.29% of students (n = 182) had a high BDI score (≥17). Male sex, good economic status, depression diagnosis at any time in life, and alcohol use were independently associated with active smoking. Being a senior student and regular exercise were independently associated with a low (<17) BDI score, whereas depression diagnosis at any time in life and drug use were independently associated with high (≥17) BDI. Conclusions: Almost 20% of medical school students were active smokers, with about a 2.5-fold higher prevalence among males compared to females. There is a significant association between smoking frequency and symptoms of depression. Policies targeting modifiable risk factors can reduce smoking and depression among future physicians, which can have a strong impact on population-wide smoking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of pressure ulcers (PUs) in patients treated for acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) and to evaluate comorbid/confounding factors. Method: The study included patients treated for AIS who were divided into three treatment groups: those receiving intravenous tissue plasminogen activator therapy (tPA); patients receiving mechanical thrombectomy (MT); and those receiving both tPA and MT. PUs were classified according to the international classification system and factors that may influence their development were investigated. Results: A total of 242 patients were included in this study. The incidence of PUs in patients treated for AIS was 7.4%. Most PUs were located on the sacrum (3.7%), followed by the gluteus (3.3%) and trochanter (2.9%). With regards to PU classification: 29% were stage I; 34% were stage II; and the remainder were stage III. Age was not a significant factor in the development of PUs (p=0.172). Patients in the tPA group had a lower PU incidence (2.3%) than patients in the tPA+MT group (15.7%) and MT group (12.1%) (p=0.001). Patients with PUs had a longer period of hospitalisation (18.5±11.92 days) than patients without a PU (8.0±8.52 days) (p=0.000). National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores at admission were higher in patients with PUs than in patients without a PU (14.33±4.38 versus 11.08±5.68, respectively; p=0.010). The difference in presence of comorbidities between patients with and without PUs (p=0.922) and between treatment groups (p=0.677) were not statistically significant. The incidence of PUs was higher in patients requiring intensive care, but this difference was not statistically significant (p=0.089). Conclusion: In this study, patients treated for AIS with high NIHSS scores at admission and/or receiving MT were at higher risk for PUs, and so particular attention should be given to these patients in order to prevent PU development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES: To elucidate prognostic factors, determine the best course of treatment methods, and assess oncological results in individuals diagnosed with uterine sarcoma. STUDY DESIGN: Between January 2001 and August 2023, 30 patients with uterine sarcomas (US) were included and analyzed in this cross-sectional study. Sixteen patients (53.3%) had uterine leiomyosarcoma, 6 patients (20%) had high-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma, 8 patients (26.7%) had low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma. RESULTS: The median follow-up of all participants was 50 months. Recurrence was detected in 43.3% of the patients. 5-year survival ratio was 73.3%, 5-year disease-free survival ratio was 66.7%, the overall survival ratio was 70% and the overall disease-free survival rate was 56.6%. No difference was observed between groups in terms of survival comparisons. No statistically significant effect of adjuvant systemic chemotherapy, adjuvant radiotherapy, and combined treatments on median overall survival and median disease-free survival was detected (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: Uterine sarcomas are uncommon malignancies characterized by a poor prognosis, even in early stages, and they are associated with a high recurrence ratio. The most effective treatment method remains unclear to date. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This cross-sectional online questionnaire-based study evaluated the knowledge, awareness, and behaviors of dentists and senior dental students regarding oral cancer (OC). Materials and methods: This study included 168 dentists and senior dental students who had completed all theoretical educations and clinical practices. An online survey was administered to all participants to assess their awareness of the risk factors for OC, clinical knowledge, and behaviors. The participants' demographic characteristics and knowledge of OC were analyzed. Results: Of the participants, 48.8% were female and 51.2% were male. Their mean age was 27.04 ± 5.56 years (range: 21–51). In addition, 59.5% were dentists, and 40.5% were senior dental students. The dentists' mean time since graduation was 6.38 ± 5.64 years (range: 1–27). Routine oral mucosa examination for OC was significantly more frequent among the dentists than the senior dental students (p < 0.05). Among all participants, 33% of dentists and 51.5% of senior dental students had poor knowledge of OC-related or possibly predisposing factors. Routine evaluation of OC-related and predisposing risk factors, including human papillomavirus infection, smoking, alcohol use, trauma-related non-healing oral lesions caused by long-term incompatible prostheses, and poor oral hygiene, was significantly more frequent among the dentists than the senior dental students (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Educating dental students about a more comprehensive oral examination and early diagnosis of OC would help overcome the current lack of adequate knowledge and attitudes in OC prevention and early detection. A core curriculum compatible with the global standards on OC should be provided to dental students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: One of the most common comorbid conditions in heart failure is iron deficiency and anemia. Because the patients are mostly elderly and have comorbidities, many examinations cannot be performed for the etiology of anemia, and it is accepted as chronic disease anemia caused by chronic diseases. However, iron deficiency can occur frequently in these patients with or without anemia. We conducted this study to investigate this frequency in heart failure patients hospitalized in the internal medicine service. Methods: This retrospective study comprised one hundred patients with decompensated heart failure (72.2±10.4 years; F/M: 41/59). Measurements of serum iron, ferritin, folic acid, vitamin B12, lactate dehydrogenase, bilirubin, reticulocyte, hemogram parameters, creatinine, ejection fraction, and cardiothoracic index of these patients were recorded from patients' files. The ESC 2016 guideline was used for the diagnosis of heart failure and diagnosis of iron deficiency in patients with heart failure. Results: A total of 26 patients were NYHA III (26%), 74 patients were NYHA IV (74%), 16 patients were stage C (16%), and 84 patients were stage D (84%). Anemia was detected in 62 patients (62%), iron deficiency anemia in 45 patients (45%), and anemia of chronic disease in 56 patients (56%). Iron deficiency was present in 70% of all patients. Iron deficiency was found to be statistically significant in patients with coronary artery bypass graft (p<0.05). Discussion and Conclusion: Considering that the functional capacities and quality of life of patients with intravenous iron therapy increase in patients with chronic heart failure, we suggest that more attention should be paid to the investigation and treatment of the etiology of anemia in this patient group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: Sarcopenia and obesity are independent diseases that result in decreased muscle strength and function. Few studies have been conducted on the association of sarcopenia and obesity, especially in women. This study aims to measure the possibility of sarcopenic obesity in women with obesity. Methods: Our study was organized using a prospective cross-sectional study in Turkey. A total of 135 volunteer were included in the study. Inclusion criteria required the patients to have a BMI >35 kg/m² or BMI >40 kg/m² and no current comorbid disease. The exclusion criteria included: age (<18 and >70 years were excluded), history of muscle disease, malignancy, psychiatric disorders such as bipolar disease and psychosis, malnutrition, and recent corticosteroid (CS) use (within the last three months). Probable sarcopenia is determined by low skeletal muscle strength, and confirmed sarcopenia is defined if there is both low skeletal muscle mass and low skeletal muscle quality. Muscle strength was measured with isometric dynamometry using the handgrip method. A six-minute walk test (6MWT), in which we measured walking speed, was performed to determine the physical performance of the patients. We adjusted appendicular skeletal muscle (ASM) using height squared (ASM/height2) bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) to measure the muscle mass. Results: Patients' mean age was 43 (11.4) (20-69) years. Of the total participants, 64.6% were in the age range of 40-59; 19.2% of patients were defined as possible sarcopenia; and 2.2% had confirmed sarcopenia. A total of 78.5% of patients did not meet any of the sarcopenia criteria. We determined that there was no difference in anthropometric measurements between sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic patients (P>0.05), except for waist and hip circumferences. However, we did observe a noteworthy distinction in waist and hip circumference measurements between the two groups, with sarcopenic patients exhibiting larger circumferences (P=0.05 and P=0.032, respectively). Our study revealed a significant disparity in the results of the six-minute walk test and handgrip strength values between sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic patients (P<0.001). Specifically, non-sarcopenic patients demonstrated higher values in both tests.. Conclusion: Obesity and sarcopenic obesity will continue to be a public health problem in the future among middle-aged women. It should be considered that the prevalence of decreased muscle strength was high in our study group, and physical performance decreased due to muscle strength. We concluded that as success in the six-minute walk test and handgrip values increased, the diagnosis of sarcopenia decreased, and each increase in platelet count increased the risk of sarcopenia in obese female patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Academic Research in Nursing (JAREN) is the property of Hemsirelikte Egitim ve Arastirma Dergisi 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 and Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the correlation between the prognosis of patients admitted to a tertiary intensive care unit (ICU) and the admitted patient population, intensive care conditions, and the workload of intensive care staff. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study that analyzed data from all tertiary ICUs (a minimum of 40 and a maximum of 59 units per month) of eight training and research hospitals between January 2022 and May 2023. We compared monthly data across hospitals and analyzed factors associated with patient prognosis, including mortality and pressure injuries (PIs). Results: This study analyzed data from 54,312 patients, of whom 51% were male and 58.8% were aged 65 or older. The median age was 69 years. The average number of tertiary ICU beds per unit was 15 ± 6 beds, and the average occupancy rate was 83.57 ± 19.28%. On average, 7 ± 9 pressure injuries (PI) and 10 ± 7 patient deaths per unit per month were reported. The mortality rate (18.66%) determined per unit was similar to the expected rate (15–25%) according to the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score. There was a statistically significant difference among hospitals on a monthly basis across various aspects, including bed occupancy rate, length of stay (LOS), number of patients per ICU bed, number of patients per nurse in a shift, rate of patients developing PI, hospitalization rate from the emergency department, hospitalization rate from wards, hospitalization rate from the external center, referral rate, and mortality rate (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Although generally reliable in predicting prognosis in tertiary ICUs, the APACHE II scoring system may have limitations when analyzed on a unit-specific basis. ICU-related conditions have an impact on patient prognosis. ICU occupancy rate, work intensity, patient population, and number of working nurses are important factors associated with ICU mortality. In particular, data on the patient population admitted to the unit (emergency patients and patients with a history of malignancy) were most strongly associated with unit mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The number of admissions for severe diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in children with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes (T1D) increased during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. We aimed to investigate whether there has been a change in this situation in recent years. Materials and Methods: All children with T1D who were diagnosed in our tertiary hospital between 2019 and 2023 were included. Plasma insulin, C-peptide, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and antibodies against thyroid peroxidase, thyroglobulin, insulin, islet cell, glutamic acid decarboxylase, tissue transglutaminase IgA, and endomysium IgA were measured. Results: The frequency of moderate–severe acidosis at admission, which increased after pandemic period compared to the pre-pandemic period, returns to its previous levels over time but still shows a statistical difference compared to the pre-pandemic period (P = .012). Age, blood gas pH and HCO3 level, C-peptide, HbA1c, and length of stay of children at the time of admission were compared year by year (years 2019-2023). No statistical differences were observed (P = .509, P = .181, P = .069, P = .469, P = .346, P = .946), respectively. A significant difference was observed in venous glucose (P < .001) and insulin (P = .001) according to years. Also, no significant difference was found about the degree of acidosis according to age (P = .334). Conclusion: Although the frequency of DKA in children with newly-diagnosed T1D increased in the first years of the pandemic, it has been decreasing over the years toward pre-pandemic levels. The frequency of DKA is still higher than the pre-pandemic period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The increase in the prevalence of obesity, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and related comorbidities in children creates a social and financial burden. In our study, we aimed to evaluate liver findings together with anthropometric and laboratory data with twodimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE), one of the SWE types, which is a noninvasive method for assessing tissue stiffness in children with obesity, and to obtain quantitative data that can be used in early diagnosis and follow-up. Materials and Methods: In our single-center, observational cross-sectional study, liver gray scale findings, 2D-SWE findings, anthropometric measurements, and laboratory values of 48 children with obesity and 50 healthy children aged between 5 and 18 years, both between groups and in prepubertal and pubertal subgroups, are compared. Results: A significant difference was found in the liver stiffness indicator kilopascal (kPA) values and between aspartate aminotransferase values in the prepubertal period and alanine aminotransferase values in the pubertal period (P < .001). No significant difference was found between insulin, HOMA-IR, waist circumference, waist/height ratio, and kPA. Conclusion: Two-dimensional shear wave elastography can be easily applied in the pediatric population as a practical, noninvasive, reproducible, and highly compatible technique. In this regard, 2D-SWE may be useful in the early diagnosis and follow-up of hepatosteatosis and fibrosis in children with obesity and NAFLD-risky cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine oncology nurses' practices about the diagnosis, prevention, and management of delirium. Background: Delirium can occur at any stage of the disease process of patients with cancer, or it can develop when the first diagnosis is learned. Study Design and Methods: A cross-sectional design was used. The study was conducted between May 10 and July 16, 2021 in Turkey with 181 nurses who worked in the oncology units of public and private hospitals and were reached by using the snowball sampling method. Data were statically analysed. Results: Of the nurses, 48.6% have a bachelor's degree and the average working years in oncology is 6.61 ± 5.47, 38.1% had been making routine delirium assessments, and only 5.5% of these nurses had prior experience using a screening tool. Also, 38.1% of the nurses had difficulty diagnosing delirium, with the patient group they had difficulty diagnosing most often being patients with dementia, hypoactive delirium, and those who were sedated, respectively. The rate of nurses who worked with a patient with delirium in the last month was 31.5%, and 40.3% could not determine the type of delirium. While the nurses' definition of hyperactive delirium findings was high, their definition of hypoactive delirium findings such as lethargy (48.8%), decreased psychomotor activity (47.7%) and withdrawal (56.1%) was low. In the study, it was found that being male, having an undergraduate degree in nursing, having professional work experience, having a lower patient-to-nurse ratio, using a screening tool, having experience working with patients diagnosed with delirium, and having positive views on delirium treatment had a significant impact on nurses' routine follow-up of delirium (p<0.05). In addition, it was determined that those who had experience working with patients diagnosed with delirium had less difficulty diagnosing delirium (p<0.05). Also, 82.4% of the nurses stated that they first applied pharmacological treatment after the diagnosis of delirium and that they most frequently used haloperidol (35%), benzodiazepine (29.8%) and dexmedetomidine (22.8%). Although nurses were self-confident about the management of delirium, they thought that it was difficult to prevent and treat delirium in patients with cancer. Conclusions: Although approximately one-third of the nurses had cared for patients diagnosed with delirium in the last month, the rate of using a measurement tool for routine delirium screening and diagnosis was low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hearing loss that arises from various causes at different stages of life has a direct impact on individuals' physical and mental well-being. This paper aimed to evaluate the employment, workplace adaptation, productivity, and professional success of individuals who have hearing loss and whose hearing loss is corrected with a cochlear implant. In this cross-sectional study, data were collected between November 2022 and March 2023 with the participation of individuals with cochlear implants living in several settlements in all regions of Türkiye. A total of 142 participants with severe hearing loss who were corrected with a cochlear implant were included in this study. The survey method was used to collect data for the study. The questionnaire consisted of 32 questions and was distributed to the participants online. In the first part of the questionnaire (questions 1–10), the general characteristics of implant patients were investigated. In the second part (questions 11–32), the positive or negative effects of implantation on the work lives of the participants were evaluated. Almost half of the research group (49.3%, n = 70) consisted of women, and the mean age of the participants was determined to be 35.8 ± 14.8 years. There was no significant difference between gender, educational status, implanted side, working time, working style (physical, desk), and factors affecting work life (p > 0.05). Professional satisfaction and success at work increased significantly more in those with acquired hearing loss (p = 0.010). Post-implantation workplace compliance, success, and productivity were found to be higher in those with acquired hearing loss (p = 0.013). Hearing loss had a significantly less negative impact on work performance in those implanted in childhood than in those implanted in adulthood (p = 0.043). It was observed that hearing loss had a greater negative impact on the work life of married people (p = 0.006). Cochlear implantation greatly enhances workplace satisfaction, increases self-confidence, and has a positive impact on the future of profoundly deaf individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effect of the delivery method on breastfeeding status of primiparous mothers during the first 24 hours. Methods: In this descriptive and analytical study, the sample consisted of 126 primiparous mothers with vaginal (n = 54) and cesarean (n = 72) deliveries. The research data were collected in a hospital through a personal information form and LATCH. Breastfeeding was assessed at the 6th, 12th, and 24th hours within the first 24-hour period after the delivery. Results: A total of 83.3% of mothers with vaginal delivery started out breastfeeding in the first hour, while the rate was 43.1% for mothers with cesarean delivery. A total of 94.4% of mothers who had vaginal birth gave their babies colostrum, whereas the rate was 80.6% for mothers who had a cesarean birth. While there were no statistically significant differences in Applications 1 and 3 between the LATCH scores of mothers with vaginal and cesarean deliveries, Application 2 produced a significant difference (p <.05). Conclusions: Delivery method influenced the breastfeeding behavior and had an impact particularly on initiation of breastfeeding in the first hour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Determining the risks in terms of preventing the formation of pressure sores and the progression of existing wounds is very important in reducing mortality. In our study, we aimed to determine the factors affecting the formation of pressure ulcers and the stage of the wound in patients hospitalized in a palliative care center. Methods: The material of our cross-sectional and retrospective study consisted of patients hospitalized in a palliative care center between January 2017 and February 2018. The age, gender, primary diagnosis, comorbidities, hemoglobin, hematocrit, lymphocyte, neutrophil, C-reactive protein, albumin, and prealbumin values, and NRS 2002 scores of the patients were recorded; and the relationship of these variables with pressure ulcer information was analyzed. Results: Of the patients participating in our study, 277 (55.1%) were female, and 226 (44.9%) were male. According to the results of our study, the risk of pressure ulcers increases in patients over 65 years of age and in female patients. Having a cerebrovascular accident or dementia/Alzheimer's disease increases the risk of advanced wounds. The presence of hypertension or cardiovascular disease increases the risk of pressure ulcers. Diabetes and chronic kidney disease have not been found to be associated with wounds. Low albumin, hemoglobin, and hematocrit, and high lymphocyte levels are associated with advanced wounds. There was no statistically significant relationship between prealbumin, CRP, neutrophil levels, and the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio and pressure ulcers. Discussion and Conclusion: There is a strong relationship between the formation and progression of pressure ulcers and the diagnosis, nutritional status, presence of anemia, and hypertension. Taking precautions by being aware of the risks in elderly patients with chronic diseases and in need of care is of great importance in terms of preventing pressure ulcers, which increase morbidity and mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Bosphorus Medical Journal / Boğaziçi Tıp Dergisi is the property of KARE Publishing 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 ESTUDAM Public Health Journal is the property of ESTUDAM Public Health Journal 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: Hypertension targets many organs. This study investigates left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), which can lead to conduction disorders, arrhythmias, and heart failure. Endothelial dysfunction (ED) was assessed using serum asymmetric dimethyl-arginine (ADMA) levels. Methods: The study included a total of 90 voluntary participants: 30 patients with hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy, 30 hypertensive patients without hypertrophy, and 30 normotensive healthy controls. Serum ADMA levels were used to detect endothelial dysfunction. Results: The results showed that serum ADMA levels were significantly higher in the patient group compared to the control group. However, there was no significant difference in serum ADMA levels between the two subgroups of patients, with or without left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). A correlation analysis was performed, revealing no correlation between serum ADMA levels and the left ventricular mass index (LVMI). Discussion and Conclusion: There appears to be no direct relationship between LVH and endothelial dysfunction. Furthermore, inflammatory processes seem to contribute to the development of LVH rather than endothelial dysfunction. The duration of exposure to high blood pressure and the stage of hypertension are also believed to impact this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Individuals with spastic cerebral palsy are more predisposed to parafunctional oral activities and oral motor problems because of spasticity. Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate the relationship between the gross motor function classification system score (GMFCS), age, bruxism, parafunctional oral habits and oral motor problems in children with cerebral palsy. Methods: This cross‐sectional study included 63 children with spastic cerebral palsy, aged 3–18 years, with developmental disabilities. The relationship between parentally reported bruxism, parafunctional oral activity rates, oral motor problems, and GMFCS was analysed. Results: The prevalence of bruxism was 52.4%, and the rate decreased as age increased. There was a greater likelihood of bruxism in individuals with tongue thrust (OR [95% CI] = 8.15 [1.4–47.3]) and swallowing problems (OR [95% CI] = 5.78 [1.3–24.68]). Conclusion: In children with spastic cerebral palsy, bruxism and the rate of parafunctional oral habits were high, thus affecting oral motor activities. A relationship was found between oral motor problems and increased GMFCS levels, but no relationship was found between bruxism and GMFCS levels. Children with spastic cerebral palsy who display tongue thrust or swallowing problems have an increased likelihood of presenting with bruxism. The study found that the prevalence of bruxism was 52.4% among 63 children with spastic cerebral palsy, ranging in age from 3 to 18 years, and the incidence of bruxism decreased as age increased. Individuals with tongue thrust (OR [95% CI] = 8.15 [1.4–47.3]) and swallowing problems (OR [95% CI] = 5.78 [1.3–24.68]) had a significantly higher likelihood of experiencing bruxism. In children with spastic cerebral palsy, both bruxism and the frequency of parafunctional oral habits were notably high, thereby influencing oral motor activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim and Objective: The aim of this cross‐sectional study was to determine the point prevalence and associated risk factors of medical device‐related pressure injuries (MDRPI) in intensive care patients in Turkey. Background: MDRPI remain a clinical problem that has garnered the attention of healthcare professionals. Design: This study used a cross‐sectional design and was conducted over a single day in all intensive care units. Method: Data were collected through face‐to‐face interviews, observation, skin examination and detailed diagnosis of MDRPI development and influencing factors. Presence of pressure injuries on the skin in the areas where the patient's medical device was placed was defined. The study was reported according to the STROBE declaration. Results: MDRPI developed in 65 out of 200 patients included in the study (32.5%). The most frequent locations were on the face (71%). The MDRPIs were commonly associated with nasogastric tube (29.2%), endotracheal tube (18.5%) and CPAP mask (15.4%). A significant proportion of these injuries were mucosal (53.8%, n = 35). The majority of the skin pressure injuries were classified as Stage II (18.5%, n = 12). The risk increased 14 times in patients who were hospitalised for 9–16 days and 13 times in those who received mechanical ventilator support. Conclusion: The study findings suggest that MDRPI developed in approximately one of three patients hospitalised in the intensive care unit, and the length of hospital stay and mechanical ventilator support were important determining risk factors. The high prevalence of MDRPI may indicate inadequate nursing care quality. Therefore, it is recommended that nurses be aware of risk factors and evaluate the suitability and safety of medical devices. Patient or Public Contribution: No patient or public contribution was involved in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The most common musculoskeletal problems associated with pregnancy are low back pain (LBP) and pelvic girdle pain. The belief that LBP is a problem that occurs during the normal course of pregnancy and it will go away after delivery impairs women's quality of life. In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of LBP and the factors associated with LBP in pregnant women in Türkiye. It also aims to increase health-care professionals' awareness of this situation. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 147 pregnant women who applied to the obstetric clinic of Haydarpasa Numune Training and Research Hospital between September 2020 and December 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. All questionnaires were filled in by a single midwife during face-to-face interviews. Functional disability was measured by the Turkish version of the Oswestry Disability Index. Results: The prevalence of pregnancy-related low back pain (PRLBP) was 86%. The prevalence of a history of LBP is 44%. Pregnant with a history of LBP had higher PRLBP during pregnancy (94.2%, p<0.001). Age, gestational week, and weight gain during pregnancy were the risk factors related to PRLBP (p<0.05). Women with PRLBP had significantly increased Oswestry score, maternal age, gestational age, and weight gain compared to pregnant without LBP (p<0.05). Discussion and Conclusion: A significant increase in the prevalence of PRLBP was observed in pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic period. Especially, young pregnant with excess weight gain during pregnancy and LBP history are candidates for PRLBP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: It has been reported that both the internal carotid artery (ICA) and the common carotid artery (CCA) are associated with hypoxia, also observed in late-onset fetal growth restriction (FGR). However, it has not yet been investigated whether these Doppler measurements differ in cases of late-onset FGR. This study evaluated the ICA and the CCA Doppler parameters in late-onset FGR fetuses and compared these measurements with those of healthy fetuses. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study comprised 75 singleton pregnancies diagnosed with late-onset FGR between the 32nd and 37th weeks of gestation, alongside 75 healthy fetuses paired 1:1 based on obstetric history and gestational age between June 2022 and May 2023. The Delphi consensus of 2016 was used for the definition of late-onset FGR. The exclusion criteria were congenital anomalies, presence of any additional disease, maternal body mass index over 35 kg/m², abdominal scars hindering ultrasound visualization, use of medications such as antenatal steroids, sympathomimetics, and indomethacin that affect vascular function, drug use, smoking during pregnancy, concurrent preeclampsia, and multiple pregnancies. Upon the patients' admission to the hospital, their demographic characteristics were documented, and ultrasonographic examinations and Doppler measurements were subsequently performed. The Doppler velocimetry of the umbilical artery (UA) encompassed measurements of the systolic to diastolic ratio (S/D), pulsatility index (PI), and peak systolic velocity (PSV). The carotid artery Doppler velocimetry of the middle cerebral artery (MCA), ICA, and CCA encompassed measurements of the PI, resistance index (RI), and PSV. We assessed the diagnostic performance of Doppler measurements for late-onset FGR through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Results: In the late-onset FGR group, the mean UA-SD was higher (2.7 [0.6] vs. 2.5 [0.5], P=0.006), and the mean UA-PI (0.8 [0.2] vs. 0.9 [0.2], P=0.011) and mean PSV (35.6 [8.2] vs. 41.1 [7.1], P<0.001) were lower compared to the control group. In the late-onset FGR group, carotid Doppler measurements were more pronounced than UA Doppler measurements. Moreover, ICA Doppler measurements exhibited superior diagnostic performance in predicting late-onset FGR compared to other Doppler measurements (Area under the curve [AUC]=0.777, P<0.001 for ICA-PI; AUC=0.751, P<0.001 for ICA-RI; AUC=0.749, P<0.001 for ICA-PSV). Conclusion: In fetuses with late-onset FGR, UA Doppler measurements showed minimal differences compared to healthy fetuses, but differences in carotid Doppler measurements, especially in the ICA, were more pronounced. Therefore, in the management of fetuses suspected of having late-onset FGR, a more detailed Doppler examination might be required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of ESTUDAM Public Health Journal is the property of ESTUDAM Public Health Journal 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.)

Aim: Healthy asymptomatic individuals can be screened for various diseases using medical check-up programs. On the other hand, the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and prediabetes (PD), which are common metabolic disorders, are increasing worldwide. In this context, this study aims to determine the prevalence of DM and PD among the asymptomatic participants of a medical check-up program. Material and Methods: The population of this cross-sectional study consisted of 440 healthy, asymptomatic volunteers aged 40 years or older who attended a medical check-up program conducted between January and August 2021. Patients with confirmed morbidities or regular medication use and pregnant women were excluded from the study. All study participants underwent physical examination, laboratory test, and sonographic assessment. The study participants were grouped according to their glycemic states, i.e., DM, PD, and normoglycemia (NG). The study's primary outcomes were the prevalence of DM and PD. Results: The prevalence of DM and PD among the study participants was 12.5% (n=55) and 58.9% (n=259), respectively. The number of males was significantly higher in Group DM than in Groups PD and NG (p=0.014). Additionally, Group DM was significantly older than Groups PD and NG (p<0.001). Furthermore, there were significantly more participants in Group DM with high urea, creatinine, uric acid, triglyceride, and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) levels (p>0.05 for all cases). Conclusion: The prevalence of DM and PD in presumed healthy asymptomatic participants was 12.5% and 58.9%, respectively, indicating unusually high prevalence in this population. In conclusion, the results of this study demonstrate that it is imperative that presumed healthy individuals are screened within the scope of medical check-up programs and followed closely afterward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: There are very few studies about the oral health status of juvenile inmates. This study aimed to determine past dental attendance, medicament usage, and smoking habits, besides oro-dental status, including caries prevalence and periodontal health status of juvenile inmates in detention centers. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 232 juvenile male inmates (meanage: 16.65±0.91) in a detention center in Istanbul-Turkey. After taking general demographic information, the subjects were clinically examined according to WHO criteria. In addition, the Plaque Index (PI) and Gingival Index (GI) were recorded at Ramfjord teeth to evaluate periodontal status. All data were statistically analyzed using the IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) 22.0 programme, Pearson correlation coefficient, Spearman's rho correlation coefficient, chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and One-way ANOVA test. Results: Average length of stay was 6.54±8.38 months. 44.4% of inmates have never visited a dentist. The mean DMF-T, PI, and GI scores of the subjects were 6.78±4.07, 1.18±0.55, and 1.13±0.47, respectively. In addition, 80.2% of inmates smoked before being taken to the detention center. Conclusion: This study indicated that the oral health of detained inmates was poor. Prison health services should not be isolated but integrated into national and regional health systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Karya Journal of Health Science is the property of Karya Journal of Health Science 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.)

Objective: Although vaccines are considered safe for most people, patients with some chronic diseases have been very hesitant to get vaccinated, especially at the initial stages of vaccination. We conducted a survey among patients with epilepsy (PWE) who are currently experiencing hesitations, aiming to investigate the vaccination rates against Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) and the side effects emerged in vaccinated patients. Methods: Two hundred nineteen PWE were questioned during a routine outpatient follow-up through previously prepared questionnaires that contained questions about patients' demographic features, information about the vaccination status, and its adverse effects. Results: We included 219 PWE in the study of which 112 (51.1%) were female and 107 (48.8%) were male. One hundred eighty patients (82.1%) had been vaccinated at least once, 75% of the patients preferred two doses of BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, 9.4% of the patients preferred two doses of Sinovac's inactivated vaccine, 6.1% of the patients preferred three doses of Sinovac, and 9.4% of the patients preferred Sinovac and BNT162b2 vaccines. Seventy-seven (42.7%) patients reported that they experienced side effects after vaccination whereas ten patients (5.5%) reported worsening of their seizures after vaccination; one person stated that she/he was hospitalized in the intensive care unit due to status epilepticus. Conclusion: Generally, the tolerance of COVID-19 vaccines has progressed with mild side effects in most cases, which is consistent with previous studies in the general population, similarly no serious and previously unreported side effects were found in our study. Our study showed that COVID-19 vaccines are well-tolerated and safe for seizures in PWE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Optimal care in the delivery room is important to decrease neonatal morbidity and mortality. We aimed to evaluate neonatal resuscitation practices in Turkish centers. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey consisted of a 91-item questionnaire focused on delivery room practices in neonatal resuscitation and was sent to 50 Turkish centers. Hospitals with <2500 and those with ≥2500 births/year were compared. Results: In 2018, approximately 240 000 births occurred at participating hospitals with a median of 2630 births/year. Participating hospitals were able to provide nasal continuous-positive airway-pressure/high-flow nasal cannula, mechanical ventilation, high-frequency oscillatory ventilation, inhaled nitric oxide, and therapeutic hypothermia similarly. Antenatal counseling was routinely performed on parents at 56% of all centers. A resuscitation team was present at 72% of deliveries. Umbilical cord management for both term and preterm infants was similar between centers. The rate of delayed cord clamping was approximately 60% in term and late preterm infants. Thermal management for preterm infants (<32 weeks) was similar. Hospitals had appropriate equipment with similar rates of interventions and management, except continuous-positive-airway-pressure and positive-end-expiratory-pressure levels (cmH2O) used in preterm infants (P = .021, and P = .032). Ethical and educational aspects were also similar. Conclusions: This survey provided information on neonatal resuscitation practices in a sample of hospitals from all regions of Turkey and allowed us to see weaknesses in some fields. Although adherence to the guidelines was high among centers, further implementations are required in the areas of antenatal counseling, cord management, and circulation assessment in the delivery room. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Sciences is the property of Turkiye Klinikleri 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.)

Caregiving has become an increasingly important medical and social issue in recent decades. We performed a cross-sectional study on pulmonary patients and accompanying informal caregivers who were hospitalized in the chest disease ward of a tertiary center in Turkey between January 2020 and April 2021. Informal caregivers were asked to complete the Zarit Caregiver Burden Interview. A total of 141 inpatients (39% female, mean age: 76.8 ± 10.2 years) and their informal caregivers (77% female, mean age: 54 ± 11.9 years) were evaluated. The caregivers were classified as light to medium burden (group 1, burden score ≤40) and medium to heavy burden (group 2, burden score >40). The mean burden score was 35.7 ± 13.3 points. The number of female caregivers was higher in group 2 (p = 0.025). There was a positive correlation between the burden score and female gender (p = 0.002) and the number of chronic diseases of caregivers (p = 0.020). Statistical analysis revealed a negative correlation between the burden score and the level of education (r = > −0.174, p = 0.040). Caregiver burden is related to the characteristics of the caregiver rather than those of the patient being cared for. Female caregivers with lower education and more than one chronic disease perceive a higher caregiver burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The study examined the clinical symptoms and lifetime traumatic experience in female patients with conversion disorder (CD). Methods: The study sample consisted of patients from a metropolis (CD-metropolis group, n=60), patients from a non-metropolis city (CD-NMC group, n=60), and healthy controls (n=60). The study was completed with 180 women. The Dissociative Events scale (DES), Childhood Trauma questionnaire-28 (CTQ-28), Traumatic Experiences checklist (TEC), and a data form were used to evaluate the participants. Results: Some specific symptoms (inability to speak, numbness in hands and arms, pseudoseizures, paralysis in hands and arms, and fatigue) and coexisting suicide attempts and dissociation symptoms were more common, CTQ-28, DES, and TEC scores were higher, and TEC Family Support scores were lower in the CD-metropolis group than in the CD-NMC group (p<0.05 for all). Conclusion: Metropolitan life is associated with a different clinical symptomatology, more frequent coexisting problems of attempted suicide and/or dissociation symptoms, and more frequent lifetime trauma compared with NMC life in the context of CD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to determine the relationship between adult colorectal cancer screening behaviors and health literacy levels. This cross-sectional study aims to determine the relationship between adult colorectal cancer screening behaviors and health literacy levels. Of the participants, only a small proportion had undergone this screening (9.3%). Having an intestinal disease (OR = 23) and having a relative with colorectal cancer (OR = 8) had the highest effect on colorectal screening. There were significant differences between the colorectal screening groups concerning most THLS-32 subgroup scores, including the THLS-32 total score. Health literacy affects colorectal cancer screening rates. Primary care workers, especially community health nurses, are in an ideal position to increase health literacy and thereby increase cancer screening rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common medical complications of pregnancy. Diagnosis of GDM, that could be unexpected, may cause women to feel negative emotions such as fear, guilt, sadness, and loss of control and experience difficulties adapting to pregnancy. Objective: This study aimed to explore psychosocial adaptation to pregnancy in women with GDM. Methods: This observational cross-sectional study was conducted with women with GDM and healthy pregnant women who applied to the pregnancy and perinatology outpatient clinic of a university hospital. Groups were matched according to age, education level, and gestational week. The Prenatal Self-Evaluation Questionnaire (PSEQ) was used to collect data. Simple linear regression was performed to determine factors influenced psychosocial adaptation to pregnancy using average scores from the PSEQ. Results: Regression analysis indicated, GDM status (beta = −48.8, p ≤ 0.001) and smoking status during pregnancy (beta = 11.0, p = 0.032) influenced the total score of the PSEQ. Conclusions: Nurses are encouraged to develop a multifaceted nursing care model that considers the physical and psychosocial problems and to provide care to increase the psychosocial adaptation of women with GDM to pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Internet addiction is a growing behavioral health problem in modern societies. In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of internet addiction (IA) and social media addiction (SMA) and their relationship with sociodemographic factors, lifestyle habits, and internet usage patterns among medical students. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 280 medical students in a medical faculty, in Istanbul. Self-report questionnaires comprised sociodemographic status, lifestyle habits, internet and social media usage behavior, the Young Internet Addiction Test-short form (s-IAT), and the Bergen Social media addiction scale. The total prevalence of IA was 16.1% (11.8–20.4%), 17.2% (12.8–21.7%) in males and 14.8% (10.7–19.0%) in females. The total prevalence of SMA was 6.1% (3.3–8.9%), 4.8% (2.3–7.3%) in males and 7.4% (4.3–10.5%) in females. No significant difference was found between the sexes in terms of IA and SMA. IA was higher in grade 3 students than in grade 6 students. Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that reading books at least once per month, high life satisfaction, performing physical activity at least twice per week, and using the internet for communication purposes were independent preventive factors for IA. The current study shows that IA and SMA are common in medical school students. Moreover, IA is associated with socioeconomic characteristics and lifestyle habits such as reading books, life satisfaction, and physical activity. To protect medical school students from IA and develop healthy behaviors, it is necessary to develop prevention strategies and design and implement awareness and education programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Balikesir Health Sciences Journal / Balıkesir Sağlık Bilimleri Dergisi is the property of Balikesir Health Sciences Journal (BAUN Health Sci J) 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: In this cross-sectional study, whether there is a difference in the prevalence of developmental/behavioral problems in children of those who received mono/polytherapy during pregnancy; How Valproic Acid (VPA) exposure affects developmental/behavioral characteristics compared to other antiseizure medications (ASM) was also investigated. Method: 64 children of 46 women with epilepsy (WWE) with children aged 0--18 years were included. Ankara Development and Screening Inventory (ADSI) for their children up to the age of six and The Child Behavior Checklist for Ages 4--18-CBCL/4--18 scale was applied for the ages of 6--18. Children exposed to prenatal ASM were divided into two groups as polytherapy and monotherapy. Children exposed to monotherapy were investigated by drug exposure, as well as exposure to VPA and other ASMs. Chi-square test was used to compare qualitative variables. Results: When monotherapy and polytherapy groups were compared, a significant difference was found in the language cognitive development area of the ADSI (p=0.015) and in terms of the sports activity variable in CBCL/4--18 (p=0.039). When the VPA monotherapy and other ASM monotherapy groups were compared, a significant difference was found in terms of sports activity in CBCL-4--18 (p=0.013). Conclusion: It was found that language and cognitive development can be delayed, the level of engagement in sports activities can be reduced in children exposed to polytherapy. The rate of doing sports activities in valproic acid monotherapy exposure may decrease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of patients admitted to a pediatric intensive care unit for poisoning and the factors associated with their outcomes. Materials and Methods: Patients who were admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit for poisoning over the 11-year period between January 2010 and December 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients' demographic characteristics, poisoning agent, whether the poisoning was unintentional or intentional (suicide attempt), clinical findings at admission, indication for hospitalization, antidote administered, and supportive and extracorporeal treatments were examined. Results: During the study period, poisonings accounted for 9.4% (436/4653) of pediatric intensive care unit admissions. Of these, 419 patients with complete records were included in the analysis. Drug poisonings accounted for 81.9% of cases (multiple drugs in 38.5%). The most common drug group was central nervous system drugs (47%). Of the symptomatic patients, 56.5% had central nervous system-related findings and 55% had gastrointestinal findings. Before pediatric intensive care unit admission, 52.7% of the patients received activated charcoal and 7.4% received antidote therapy. In the pediatric intensive care unit, 68.9% of patients received no medical treatment, while 71.5% of those who received medical treatment had organ involvement. Multivariate logistic regression analysis to predict whether patients will require treatment during the intensive care follow-up showed that antidote administration before pediatric intensive care unit admission was associated with the need for medical treatment (odds ratio: 25.6, 95% CI: 6.8-96, P < .05). Three patients died, and the mortality rate was 0.72%. Conclusion: Childhood poisoning is a widespread and important problem. Effective management in pediatric emergency and intensive care units contributes to patient survival without sequelae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the factors associated with disability and quality of life (QoL) in Turkish patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Patients and methods: Between January 2018 and January 2019, a total of 256 SSc patients (20 males, 236 females; mean age: 50.9±12.4 years; range, 19 to 87 years) who were diagnosed with SSc were included in the study. Disability and health-related QoL (HRQoL) were evaluated by the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), scleroderma HAQ (SHAQ), Duruöz Hand Index (DHI), and Short Form-36 (SF-36). Linear regression analysis methods were used to describe factors associated with disability and QoL of the patients. Results: All disability scores were higher and HRQoL scores were lower in diffuse cutaneous SSc patients compared limited cutaneous SSc, and differentiations were significant (p=0.001 and p=0.007). In multiple regression, pain (VAS) was the strongest predictor for high disability and low QoL scores (p<0.001) as HAQ (β=0.397, 0.386, 0.452), SHAQ (β=0.397, 0.448, 0.372), DHI (β=0.446, 0.536, 0.389), PCS (β=-0.417,-0.499, -0.408) and MCS (β=-0.478, -0.441, -0.370) in combined, lcSSc and dcSSc patients respectively. The factors associated with high disability and low QoL scores were forced vital capacity for HAQ (β=-0.172, p=0.002) and SF-36 PCS (β=0.187, p=0.001); disease duration for HAQ (β=0.208, p<0.001), DHI (β=0.147, p=0.006), and SF-36 PCS (β=-0.134, p=0.014); 6-minute walk test for HAQ (β=-0.161, p=0.005) and SF-36 PCS (β=0.153, p=0.009); and modified Rodnan skin score for SHAQ (β=0.250, p<0.001) and DHI (β=0.233, p<0.001) in SSc patients. Diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide for HAQ (β=-0.189, p=0.010) and SHAQ (β=-0.247, p=0.002); erythrocyte sedimentation rate for DHI (β=0.322, p<0.001); age for SF-36 PCS (β=-0.221, p=0.003) and body mass index for SF-36 PCS (β=-0.200, p=0.008) and MCS (β=-0.175, p=0.034) were the other variables associated with high disability or low QoL scores in SSc subsets. Conclusion: Clinicians should consider the management of the pain and its sources as a key to improve better functional state and quality of daily life in SSc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: High-flow nasal cannula therapy has been shown to be useful in the treatment of patients with acute respiratory failure caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus disease-2. The ROX index can help predict the success of high-flow nasal cannula in coronavirus disease-19-related acute respiratory failure. However, the timing of ROX- index assessment is still unclear to protect the patients from complications due to early or delayed intubation. Aims: To evaluate the relation between ROX index patterns within the first 48 hours of the therapy and high-flow nasal cannula success rates. The secondary aim was to determine other possible predictors of high-flow nasal cannula failure. Study design: A cross-sectional study. Methods: Patients admitted to the intensive care unit between April 2020 and January 2022 with coronavirus disease-19-related acute respiratory failure and treated with high-flow nasal cannula were included in the study. Patients' demographics, clinical characteristics and laboratory findings at intensive care unit admission; ROX indices at initiation, 2nd, 8th, 12th, 24th and 48th hours of high-flow nasal cannula; and outcomes were recorded. Results: In the study period, 69th patients were managed with high- flow nasal cannula for at least 2 hours. While 24 patients (34.7%) were successfully weaned from high-flow nasal cannula, 45 (65.3%) patients failed. Overall mortality at day 28 was 44.9%. ROX indices were lower in the high-flow nasal cannula failure group through the 12th, 24th, and 48th hours of the therapy, no significant change was observed (P = 0.33). While an overall increase in ROX index patterns were detected in patients weaned from high-flow nasal cannula (P = 0.002). Pairwise analyses revealed that ROX indexes remain stable during the first 8th hours in both groups, then improved to 12th hours of the therapy in successfully high-flow nasal cannula-weaned patients. Conclusion: Dynamic assessments of the ROX indexes could be more suggestive rather than a point assessment to identify patients who would benefit from the high-flow nasal cannula or deteriorate in coronavirus disease-19 related acute respiratory failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The main aim of this study was to compare older patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) to those with dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) according to their dependency in daily living activities and comprehensive geriatric assessment parameters. Method: A total of 227 AD and 123 DLB patients underwent a geriatric assessment that included comorbidities, number of drugs used, falls, urinary incontinence, hand grip strength, Mini‐Nutritional Assessment (MNA), Tinetti Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment Scale, Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Basic and instrumental activities of daily living were assessed by the Barthel Index and the Lawton scale, respectively. Results: The mean age of the participants was 83.4 years, and 73% were female. There were no statistically significant differences between AD and DLB patients in age, gender, cognitive function, or comorbidities except for coronary artery disease (P < 0.05). The number of falls, drugs used, and ISI and Epworth scores were higher in patients with DLB than patients with AD (P < 0.05). DLB patients had lower MNA, Tinetti scale, and hand grip strength scores than AD patients. The ratio of patients highly dependent in basic daily activities as a whole was significantly greater in DLB than in AD (P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference in the overall levels of dependency in instrumental activities. Conclusion: DLB patients are more dependent on their caregivers than AD patients. Nutritional deterioration, sleep disorders, falls, balance and gait problems, decreased muscle strength, and multiple drug use are more common in those with DLB compared to those with AD. The management of older patients with DLB may be more difficult than older patients with AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]