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Odom A, James L, Butts S, French CJ, Cayce JM. Reducing costs and improving patient recovery through a nurse-driven centralized spinal orthoses program on a post-surgical unit: A quality improvement initiative. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF NURSING STUDIES ADVANCES 2024; 7:100212. [PMID: 39021702 PMCID: PMC11252924 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnsa.2024.100212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background An external vendor providing off-the-shelf spinal orthoses to inpatients created significant costs and barriers to quality care for spinal surgery patients. A nursing leadership team initiated a quality improvement project to reduce the cost of providing off-the-shelf spinal orthoses and improve the care provided to spinal patients. Objective To develop and evaluate a nursing-led process for providing off-the-shelf orthoses to spinal surgery patients and eliminate high costs. Design Quality improvement project evaluated as a retrospective interrupted time-series. Setting Post Surgery Inpatient Unit Level II Trauma Center in a United States hospital located in Florida. Participants Vendor Program: 134 patients; Centralized Program: 155 patients. Methods The nursing leadership team developed a centralized spinal orthoses program where the bedside nurse fitted the patient with a spinal orthosis, eliminating the need for an external orthotist. The study quantifies changes in study metrics by comparing patients identified through chart review who received care in the vendor program to those who received care in the centralized program utilizing nonparametric statistical techniques. Results The centralized nursing-led spinal orthosis program allowed the unit to mobilize patients more quickly than patients managed under the vendor program (3.85 hr. [95 % CI: 1.27 to 7.26 hrs] reduction; p = 0.004). The overall length of stay was reduced by 0.78 days ([1.34 - 0.02 days]; p = 0.063) or 18.72 h. While the statistical test did not indicate significance, the 18.72-hour reduction in length of stay represents a potential clinically relevant finding. Evaluating patients that suffered a primary spinal injury and no complications (vendor program: 54 patients; centralized program: 86 patients) showed a similar reduction in time to mobilization (4.5 hr reduction [0.53 to 12.93 hrs]; p = 0.025), but the length of stay reduction increased to 1.02 days [0.12 to 1.97 days], a difference determined to be statistically significant (p = 0.014). Centralizing the process for providing off-the-shelf spinal orthoses reduced the cost of a thoracic-lumbar sacral orthosis by $1,483 and the price of a lumbar-sacral orthosis by $1,327. Throughout the study, the new program reduced the cost of providing spinal orthoses by $175,319. Conclusions The results demonstrate that the nursing-led centralized spinal orthosis program positively impacted the quality of care provided to our patients while also reducing the cost of delivering the orthoses. Tweetable abstract A nursing-led centralized spinal orthosis program reduces the cost of care while reducing time to mobilization and length of stay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Odom
- Surgical and Procedural Services, Lakeland Regional Health, Lakeland, FL
| | - Leonie James
- Surgical and Procedural Services, Lakeland Regional Health, Lakeland, FL
| | - Sheena Butts
- Surgical and Procedural Services, Lakeland Regional Health, Lakeland, FL
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Roth A, Gehre L, Gerke J, Lutz M, Manafa G, Schmitz T, Lambio C, Zhuang S, Butler J, Lakes T, Savaskan N. Epidemiology of COVID-19 in Berlin-Neukölln nursing homes. J Infect Public Health 2024; 17:102546. [PMID: 39321605 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2024.102546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has affected various urban population groups in different ways. Earlier studies have shown that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) disproportionally impacts nursing home residents by increasing morbidity and mortality following viral exposure. However, little is known about the epidemiology of this disease in detail. Therefore, the objective of this study is to analyze the development of the COVID-19 pandemic in 14 nursing homes across Berlin-Neukölln, Germany, during pandemic waves 1 to 5 (Feb 2020 - May 2022). METHODS Reporting data to the Neukölln Department of Public Health on COVID-19 cases in connection with nursing homes were extracted from the SORMAS database. The case fatality rates (CFRs) and odds ratios (ORs) of demographic parameters, prevalent variants of concern (VOCs) and vaccine availability were calculated. In addition, the temporal course in waves 1-5 in Neukölln and the relevant government measures were examined. RESULTS Data collected from nursing homes providing age-dependent physical care revealed that 1.9 % of the total 108,600 cases registered in Berlin-Neukölln during the study period were related one of the 14 facilities. Compared to the general population in Neukölln, nursing homes exhibited a 20-fold increase in the CFR. Notably, nursing homes with higher bed capacities displayed a greater CFR than did smaller nursing homes. Similarly, elderly residents living in nursing homes faced a much greater mortality rate than did their counterparts living outside of medical settings (OR = 3.5). The original wild-type SARS-CoV-2 strain had the most severe direct impact, with a CFR of 16.7 %, compared to the alpha (CFR = 6.9 %), delta (CFR = 10.2 %) and omicron (CFR = 2.8 %) variants in nursing homes. Interestingly, the number of infections increased following vaccination campaigns, but this trend was accompanied by a decrease in the number of deaths from 2.6 to 1.1 per week. As a result, the CFR significantly decreased from 18.4 to 5.5, while still exceeding the mean CFR compared to that of the general population of Neukölln. CONCLUSIONS Our findings reveal the changing patterns of outbreak frequency and severity across the five pandemic waves. They highlight the crucial role of rapid vaccination programs for residents, staff, visitors, and third-party services in safeguarding nursing homes. Additionally, improvements in containment and cluster strategies are essential in prevaccination scenarios to prevent future infection traps for elderly individuals in long-term care facilities. The presented data highlight the importance of tailored protection measures for one of the most vulnerable populations in our society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Roth
- Public Health Authority Neukölln, District Office Neukölln of Berlin, Blaschkoallee 32, 12359 Berlin, Germany; Institut für Gesundheitswissenschaften, FB Hebammenwissenschaft, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
| | - Lena Gehre
- Public Health Authority Neukölln, District Office Neukölln of Berlin, Blaschkoallee 32, 12359 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jonas Gerke
- Public Health Authority Neukölln, District Office Neukölln of Berlin, Blaschkoallee 32, 12359 Berlin, Germany
| | - Maja Lutz
- Public Health Authority Neukölln, District Office Neukölln of Berlin, Blaschkoallee 32, 12359 Berlin, Germany
| | - Georgianna Manafa
- Public Health Authority Neukölln, District Office Neukölln of Berlin, Blaschkoallee 32, 12359 Berlin, Germany; Geography Department, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10099 Berlin, Germany
| | - Tillman Schmitz
- Geography Department, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10099 Berlin, Germany
| | - Christoph Lambio
- Geography Department, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10099 Berlin, Germany
| | - Sida Zhuang
- Geography Department, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10099 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jeffrey Butler
- Geography Department, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10099 Berlin, Germany
| | - Tobia Lakes
- Geography Department, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10099 Berlin, Germany
| | - Nicolai Savaskan
- Public Health Authority Neukölln, District Office Neukölln of Berlin, Blaschkoallee 32, 12359 Berlin, Germany.
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Eltaybani S, Igarashi A, Cal A, Lai CKY, Carrasco C, Sari DW, Cho E, Haugan G, Bravo JD, Abouzeid NA, Wachholz PA, Isaramalai SA, Dawood SS, Pappas Y, Abd-El-Moneam AAEG, Rodríguez AB, Alqahtani BA, Pereira CLN, Jenssen CRS, Yu DSF, Mendes FRP, Randhawa G, Ahmed HAESH, Suzuki H, Aydin-Avci I, Waluyo I, Nurbaeti I, Vseteckova J, Horne JK, Liu JYW, Ingstad K, Kashiwabara K, Grant L, Abd-El-Moniem MM, Sakka M, Abdelgawad ME, Subu MA, Kentzer N, Almadani NA, Tomas-Carus P, Rodrigues-Garcia RCM, Indarwati R, Maneerat S, Chien WT, Amamiya Y, Cavalcanti YW, Yamamoto-Mitani N. Promoting workplace retention during global crises: An international survey of the preventive role of psychological support among victims of social discrimination in long-term care facilities. Geriatr Nurs 2024; 59:94-102. [PMID: 38996770 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2024.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
This international cross-sectional survey examined the potential role of organizational psychological support in mitigating the association between experiencing social discrimination against long-term care (LTC) facilities' healthcare professionals (HCPs) and their intention to stay in the current workplace during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants included a convenience sample of 2,143 HCPs (nurses [21.5 %], nurse aids or residential care workers [40.1 %], social workers [12.1 %], and others [26.4 %]) working at 223 LTC facilities in 13 countries/regions. About 37.5 % of the participants reported experiencing social discrimination, and the percentage ranged from 15.3 % to 77.9 % across countries/regions. Controlling for socio-demographic and work-related variables, experiencing social discrimination was significantly associated with a lower intention to stay, whereas receiving psychological support showed a statistically significant positive association (p-value=0.015 and <0.001, respectively). The interaction term between social discrimination and psychological support showed a statistically significant positive association with the intention to stay, indicating a moderating role of the psychological support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameh Eltaybani
- Global Nursing Research Center, The University of Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Ayumi Igarashi
- Department of Gerontological Home Care and Long-term Care Nursing, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayse Cal
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Ankara Medipol University, Turkey
| | - Claudia K Y Lai
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR
| | | | | | - Eunhee Cho
- Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, Yonsei University, College of Nursing, South Korea
| | - Gørill Haugan
- Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Department of Public Health Nursing, Norway, Nord University, Faculty of Nursing and Health Science, Levanger, Norway
| | - Jorge D Bravo
- Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal. Comprehensive Health Research Centre(CHRC), Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | - Nesreen A Abouzeid
- Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, College of Nursing, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Shaimaa Samir Dawood
- Gerontological nursing department, Faculty of Nursing, Alexandria University, Egypt
| | - Yannis Pappas
- Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, England
| | | | - Ana Beatriz Rodríguez
- Neuroimmunophysiology and Chrononutrition Research Group, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
| | | | - Catarina Lino Neto Pereira
- Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal. Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | | | - Doris S F Yu
- School of Nursing, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Felismina Rosa P Mendes
- Departamento de Enfermagem, Escola Superior de Enfermagem São João de Deus, Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal. Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | - Gurch Randhawa
- Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, England
| | | | - Haruno Suzuki
- Department of Gerontological Home Care and Long-term Care Nursing, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ilknur Aydin-Avci
- Department of Public Health Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ondokuz Mayıs University
| | - Imam Waluyo
- Padma Kumara Foundation and Consultant International, Collaboration Physiotherapy School YAB, Indonesia
| | - Irma Nurbaeti
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Islam Negeri Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Jitka Vseteckova
- Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies, The Open University, England
| | | | | | | | | | - Louise Grant
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, University of Bedfordshire, England
| | | | - Mariko Sakka
- Department of Gerontological Home Care and Long-term Care Nursing, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | - Nichola Kentzer
- Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies, The Open University, England
| | - Noura A Almadani
- Community health nursing department, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Pablo Tomas-Carus
- Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal. Comprehensive Health Research Centre(CHRC), Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | | | | | - Sonthaya Maneerat
- Prapokklao Nursing College, Faculty of Nursing, Praboromarajchanok Institute, Thailand
| | - Wai Tong Chien
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yuko Amamiya
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Healthcare Sciences, Chiba Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Japan
| | | | - Noriko Yamamoto-Mitani
- Department of Gerontological Home Care and Long-term Care Nursing, The University of Tokyo, Japan
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Wachtler C, Bergqvist M, Bastholm-Rahmner P, Gustafsson LL, Schmidt-Mende K. COVID-19 guidelines and media influenced ethical care in nursing homes. Nurs Ethics 2024:9697330241268923. [PMID: 39177002 DOI: 10.1177/09697330241268923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic affected nursing homes and their residents heavily. Guidelines on how to mitigate the virus's spread and ensuring safe healthcare delivery were continually evolving. Concurrently, nursing homes faced intense media scrutiny. This challenging environment severely impacted registered nurses and physicians employed within these facilities. AIM To understand the ethical challenges experienced by registered nurses and physicians working in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. RESEARCH DESIGN Qualitative descriptive research using thematic analysis. PARTICIPANTS AND RESEARCH CONTEXT Individual online interviews with four registered nurses and eight physicians clinically active at nursing homes in Sweden. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS The study was approved by the Swedish Ethical Review Authority. All participants provided written consent. RESULTS Registered nurses and physicians working in nursing homes perceived ethical challenges stemming from early COVID-19 pandemic guidelines and media coverage. The main theme generated was 'Struggling to maintain professional and ethical standards under pressure' incorporating two subthemes: 'Guidelines developed without the profession put pressure on staff' and 'Media's biased reporting was perceived as unethical and undermined care'. Guidelines from the authorities were considered as developed without professional involvement. It made them difficult to adhere to without deviating from professional and ethical compasses. Media coverage adversely influenced relatives' perceptions, resulting in mistrust towards physicians' and registered nurses' in delivering optimal care for the residents. CONCLUSIONS Resilient care in nursing homes necessitates the collaborative development of guidelines involving registered nurses and physicians, particularly amidst crises. Moreover, it is vital to provide support to registered nurses navigating ethical dilemmas, especially during pandemics. Guidelines and principles for care during a crisis should be development with professional involvement, be transparent, and be available to the public, to promote neutral media coverage. Future research is crucial to enhance ethical standards and tackle challenges in this context.
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Bárrios H, Nunes JPL, Teixeira JPA, Rêgo G. End-of-Life Care during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Decreased Hospitalization of Nursing Home Residents at the End of Life. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1573. [PMID: 39201132 PMCID: PMC11353357 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12161573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Nursing homes (NHs) face unique challenges in end-of-life care for their residents. High rates of hospitalization at the end of life are frequent, often for preventable conditions. The increased clinical uncertainty during the pandemic, the high symptom burden of the COVID-19 disease, and the challenges in communication with families and between care teams might impact the option to hospitalize NH residents at the end of life. (2) Materials and methods: The study covered a 3-year period and compared the hospitalization rates of the NH residents of a sample of Portuguese NH during the last year of life before and during the pandemic. A total of 387 deceased residents were included in the study. (3) Results: There were fewer hospitalizations in the last year of life during the pandemic period, although the proportion of deaths at hospitals was the same. Hospitalizations occurred closer to death, and with more serious clinical states. The lower rate of hospitalization was due to lower hospitalization due to infection; (4) Conclusions: The data suggest an improvement in end-of-life care practices during the pandemic period, with the decrease in hospitalizations being due to potentially burdensome hospitalizations. The importance of the role of physicians, nurses, and caregivers in this setting may be relatively independent of each other, and each may be targeted in end-of-life care training. Further study is recommended to clarify the implications of the results and if the changes can be sustained in the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Bárrios
- Hospital do Mar Cuidados Especializados Lisboa, 2695-458 Bobadela, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal; (J.P.L.N.); (J.P.A.T.)
| | - José Pedro Lopes Nunes
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal; (J.P.L.N.); (J.P.A.T.)
| | | | - Guilhermina Rêgo
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal; (J.P.L.N.); (J.P.A.T.)
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Brazier JF, White EM, Meehan A, Shield RR, Grabowski DC, Rahman M, Gadbois EA. Rethinking Infection Control: Nursing Home Administrator Experiences during the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2024; 25:105071. [PMID: 38852611 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2024.105071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine nursing home administrator perspectives of infection control practices in nursing homes at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and characterize lessons learned. DESIGN Descriptive qualitative study. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Administrators from 40 nursing homes across 8 diverse health care markets in the United States. METHODS Semistructured interviews were conducted via telephone or Zoom with nursing home administrators. Interviews were repeated at 3-month intervals, for a total of 4 interviews per participant between July 2020 and December 2021 (n = 156). Qualitative analysis of interview transcripts used modified grounded theory and thematic analysis to identify overarching themes. RESULTS Three major themes emerged reflecting administrator experiences managing infection control practices and nursing home operations at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. First, administrators reported that the more stringent infection control protocols implemented to manage and mitigate COVID-19 at their facilities increased awareness and understanding of the importance of infection control; second, administrators reported incorporating higher standards of infection control practices into facility-level policies, emergency preparedness plans, and staff training; and third, administrators said they and their executive leadership were reevaluating and upgrading their facilities' physical structures and operational processes for better infection control infrastructure in preparation for future pandemics or other public health crises. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Insights from this study's findings suggest important next steps for restructuring and improving nursing home infection control protocols and practices in preparation for future pandemics and public health emergencies. Nursing homes need comprehensive, standardized infection control training and upgrading of physical structures to improve ventilation and facilitate isolation practices when needed. Furthermore, nursing home emergency preparedness plans need better integration with local, state, and federal agencies to ensure effective communication, proper resource tracking and allocation, and coordinated, rapid response during future public health crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan F Brazier
- Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA.
| | - Elizabeth M White
- Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Amy Meehan
- Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Renee R Shield
- Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - David C Grabowski
- Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Momotazur Rahman
- Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Emily A Gadbois
- Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
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Marshall F. Minding the gaps: Recognising ancillary staff contributions in care homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Health Serv Res Policy 2024; 29:141-142. [PMID: 38701809 DOI: 10.1177/13558196241249347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Marshall
- Research Fellow Public Health Knowledge Mobilisation (NIHR), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Medical School Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
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Nilsen A, Eriksen S, Lichtwarck B, Hillestad AH, Julnes SG, Tretteteig S, Rokstad AMM. Treatment and Care for Nursing Home Residents with COVID-19: A Qualitative Study. J Multidiscip Healthc 2024; 17:2935-2946. [PMID: 38933696 PMCID: PMC11199164 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s467459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) placed a significant strain on nursing homes, leading to numerous outbreaks and high mortality rates. This situation created considerable stress and challenges for residents, their physicians and nurses, as well as family caregivers. By understanding these challenges, we can gain new insights and learn valuable lessons. Thus, the purpose of this study is to examine the treatment and care provided to nursing home residents with COVID-19, as experienced by physicians, nurses, and family caregivers. Participants and Methods This study is a secondary analysis of 35 interviews with physicians, nurses, and family caregivers, each with personal experience caring for nursing home residents diagnosed with COVID-19. The interviews took place from December 2020 to April 2021. We analyzed the transcriptions based on Braun and Clarke's reflexive thematic analysis model and followed a qualitative descriptive design as outlined by Sandelowski. Findings The analysis produced three themes: 1) Balancing medical treatment, 2) The need for increased systematic monitoring of vital functions, and 3) Determining the treatment level for nursing home residents. These themes were explored through the unique perspectives of the three participant groups: physicians, nurses, and family caregivers. The findings revealed several challenges related to treatment and care for nursing home residents diagnosed with COVID-19. This applied both to relief of symptoms, monitoring of vital functions, assessment of treatment level and use of advance care planning. Conclusion Drawing from the experiences of physicians, nurses, and family caregivers, there should be a unified plan at the municipal or national level for competency development in nursing homes to prepare for future crises like pandemics or epidemics. Additionally, the safe engagement of family caregivers and relatives should be given priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Nilsen
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Social Care, Molde University College, Molde, Norway
| | - Siren Eriksen
- Lovisenberg Diaconal University College, Oslo, Norway
| | - Bjørn Lichtwarck
- The Research Centre for Age-Related Functional Decline and Disease, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Ottestad, Norway
| | | | - Signe Gunn Julnes
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Social Care, Molde University College, Molde, Norway
| | - Signe Tretteteig
- Norwegian National Centre for Ageing and Health, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tønsberg, Norway
| | - Anne Marie Mork Rokstad
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Social Care, Molde University College, Molde, Norway
- Norwegian National Centre for Ageing and Health, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tønsberg, Norway
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Figueiredo CDS, Giacomin KC, Gual RF, de Almeida SC, Assis MG. Death and Other Losses in the COVID-19 Pandemic in Long-Term Care Facilities for Older Adults in the Perception of Occupational Therapists: A Qualitative Study. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2024; 89:795-811. [PMID: 35354414 PMCID: PMC8971964 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221086169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Long-term care facilities for older adults (LTCFs) were directly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to discuss the perceptions of occupational therapists about deaths and other losses in LTCFs during the pandemic. This qualitative study is anchored in social phenomenology, and conducted in-depth interviews with eight occupational therapists who worked in LTCFs. Thus, two themes were generated after the Thematic Analyses: "The proximity of death" and "Losses associated with living and dying in a LTCF." In the first theme, the interviewees addressed the feeling of imminent death in the daily life of the LTCF, and feelings related to their own death, that of their family members and other older adults. In the second, the professionals highlighted three groups of losses: social, functional, and psychological/cognitive. These results highlighted the challenges faced by occupational therapists and can contribute to improve behavior and care for institutionalized older adults during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina de S. Figueiredo
- Graduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Karla C. Giacomin
- Geriatrician, Center for Studies in Public Health and Aging – NESPE, Fiocruz Minas - Municipal Health Department, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ramon F. Gual
- Geriatrician, Conviver Complexo de Atenção ao Idoso, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Simone C. de Almeida
- Occupational Therapy Department, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Marcella G. Assis
- Occupational Therapy Department, Graduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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Ziegler E, Martin-Misener R, Rietkoetter S, Baumann A, Bougeault IL, Kovacevic N, Miller M, Moseley J, Wong FKY, Bryant-Lukosius D. Response and innovations of advanced practice nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic: A scoping review. Int Nurs Rev 2024; 71:250-275. [PMID: 37737005 DOI: 10.1111/inr.12884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
AIM Identify and map international evidence regarding innovations led by or involving advanced practice nurses in response to COVID-19. BACKGROUND COVID-19 necessitated unprecedented innovation in the organization and delivery of healthcare. Although advanced practice nurses have played a pivotal role during the pandemic, evidence of their contributions to innovations has not been synthesized. Evidence is needed to inform policies, practices, and research about the optimal use of advanced practice nurses. METHODS A scoping review was conducted and reported using the PRISMA-ScR checklist. Electronic databases were searched for peer-reviewed articles published between January 2020 and December 2021. Papers were included that focused on innovations emerging in response to COVID-19 and involved advanced practice nurses. RESULTS Fifty-one articles were included. Four themes were identified including telehealth, supporting and transforming care, multifaceted approaches, and provider education. Half of the articles used brief and mostly noncomparative approaches to evaluate innovations. CONCLUSION This is the first synthesis of international evidence examining the contributions of advanced practice nurses during the pandemic. Advanced practice nurses provided leadership for the innovation needed to rapidly respond to healthcare needs resulting from COVID-19. Innovations challenged legislative restrictions on practice, enabled implementation of telehealth and new models of care, and promoted evidence-informed and patient-centered care. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Advanced practice nurses led, designed, implemented, and evaluated innovations in response to COVID-19. They facilitated the use of telehealth, supported or transformed models of care, and enabled health providers through education, mentorship, and mental health support. IMPLICATION FOR POLICY Advanced practice nurses are a critical resource for innovation and health system improvement. Permanent removal of legislative and regulatory barriers to their full scope of practice is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Ziegler
- Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Andrea Baumann
- School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ivy Lynn Bougeault
- School of Sociological and Anthropological Studies, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Minna Miller
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jessica Moseley
- School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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11
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Gill A, Meadows L, Ashbourne J, Kaasalainen S, Shamon S, Pereira J. 'Confidence and fulfillment': a qualitative descriptive study exploring the impact of palliative care training for long-term care physicians and nurses. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2024; 18:26323524241235180. [PMID: 38449569 PMCID: PMC10916492 DOI: 10.1177/26323524241235180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore the impact of a 2-day, in-person interprofessional palliative care course for staff working in long-term care (LTC) homes. Methods A qualitative descriptive study design was employed. LTC staff who had participated in Pallium Canada's Learning Essential Approaches to Palliative Care LTC Course in Ontario, Canada between 2017 and 2019 were approached. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, using an online videoconferencing platform in mid-2021 in Ontario, Canada. These were done online, recorded, and transcribed. Data were coded inductively. Results Ten persons were interviewed: four registered practical nurses, three registered nurses, one nurse practitioner, and two physicians. Some held leadership roles. Participants described ongoing impact on themselves and their ability to provide end-of-life (EOL) care (micro-level), their services and institutions (meso-level), and their healthcare systems (macro-level). At a micro-level, participants described increased knowledge and confidence to support residents and families, and increased work fulfillment. At the meso-level, their teams gained increased collective knowledge and greater interprofessional collaboration to provide palliative care. At the macro level, some participants connected with other LTC homes and external stakeholders to improve palliative care across the sector. Training provided much-needed preparedness to respond to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, including undertaking advance care planning and EOL conversations. The pandemic caused staff burnout and shortages, creating challenges to applying course learnings. Significance of results The impact of palliative care training had ripple effects several years after completing the training, and equipped staff with key skills to provide care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Palliative care education of staff remains a critical element of an overall strategy to improve the integration of palliative care in LTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashlinder Gill
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, 5th Floor, 100 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, Canada L8P 1H6
| | - Lynn Meadows
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jessica Ashbourne
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Sharon Kaasalainen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Division of Palliative Care, Department of Family Medicine, School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Sandy Shamon
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Temmy Latner Centre for Palliative Care, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - José Pereira
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Pallium Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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12
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Song MS, Jeong SY, Park S. Infection Control Experiences and Educational Needs of Geriatric Care Workers in Long-Term Care Facilities: A Pilot Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:301. [PMID: 38338186 PMCID: PMC10855566 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12030301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the post-COVID-19 condition, infection control education is important for geriatric care workers who care for the elderly and are vulnerable to emerging infectious diseases. This study was conducted to enhance the insight into the experiences of geriatric care workers in managing novel infectious diseases (COVID-19) and to identify the newly required educational requirements necessary to effectively implement infectious disease control. METHODS This is a qualitative and pilot study using focus group interviews. Data from 10 participants were collected using a focus group interview. The data were analyzed using Qualitative content analysis. RESULTS The findings showed that geriatric healthcare workers experienced difficulties following infection control protocols and emotional distress related to visitor restrictions and had an increased workload. The participants requested further education regarding general knowledge of infectious diseases to decrease their fears of infection and reported that visual and practical teaching methods were preferable. CONCLUSIONS Further attention is needed regarding the education of infection control to strengthen infection prevention in long-term care facilities vulnerable to the spread of emerging infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Sun Song
- College of Nursing, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seogu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea; (M.S.S.); (S.Y.J.)
| | - Sun Young Jeong
- College of Nursing, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seogu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea; (M.S.S.); (S.Y.J.)
| | - Soohyun Park
- Department of Nursing, Eulji University, Seongnam, 553 Sanseong-daero, Sujeong-gu, Seongnam-si 13135, Republic of Korea
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13
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Bakerjian D. Transitions in caring for Geriatric Nursing! Geriatr Nurs 2024; 55:A1-A2. [PMID: 38199941 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Deb Bakerjian
- Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, University of California, Davis, 2570 48th Street, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
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14
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Eltaybani S, Igarashi A, Cal A, Lai CKY, Carrasco C, Sari DW, Cho E, Haugan G, Bravo JD, Abouzeid NA, Wachholz PA, Isaramalai SA, Dawood SS, Pappas Y, Abd El Moneam AAEG, Rodríguez AB, Alqahtani BA, Pereira CLN, Jenssen CRS, Yu DSF, Ahmed FR, Mendes FRP, Randhawa G, Ahmed HAESH, Suzuki H, Prambudi H, Avci IA, Waluyo I, Nurbaeti I, Vseteckova J, Horne JK, Liu JY, Ingstad K, Kashiwabara K, Grant L, Abd El Moniem MM, Sakka M, Abdelgawad ME, Subu MA, Kentzer N, Almadani NA, Tomas-Carus P, Rodrigues Garcia RCM, Indarwati R, Maneerat S, Chien WT, Amamiya Y, Cavalcanti YW, Yamamoto-Mitani N. Long-term care facilities' response to the COVID-19 pandemic: An international, cross-sectional survey. J Adv Nurs 2024; 80:350-365. [PMID: 37452500 DOI: 10.1111/jan.15785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
AIMS To (i) assess the adherence of long-term care (LTC) facilities to the COVID-19 prevention and control recommendations, (ii) identify predictors of this adherence and (iii) examine the association between the adherence level and the impact of the pandemic on selected unfavourable conditions. DESIGN Cross-sectional survey. METHODS Managers (n = 212) and staff (n = 2143) of LTC facilities (n = 223) in 13 countries/regions (Brazil, Egypt, England, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Norway, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Spain, Thailand and Turkey) evaluated the adherence of LTC facilities to COVID-19 prevention and control recommendations and the impact of the pandemic on unfavourable conditions related to staff, residents and residents' families. The characteristics of participants and LTC facilities were also gathered. Data were collected from April to October 2021. The study was reported following the STROBE guidelines. RESULTS The adherence was significantly higher among facilities with more pre-pandemic in-service education on infection control and easier access to information early in the pandemic. Residents' feelings of loneliness and feeling down were the most affected conditions by the pandemic. More psychological support to residents was associated with fewer residents' aggressive behaviours, and more psychological support to staff was associated with less work-life imbalance. CONCLUSIONS Pre-pandemic preparedness significantly shaped LTC facilities' response to the pandemic. Adequate psychological support to residents and staff might help mitigate the negative impacts of infection outbreaks. IMPACT This is the first study to comprehensively examine the adherence of LTC facilities to COVID-19 prevention and control recommendations. The results demonstrated that the adherence level was significantly related to pre-pandemic preparedness and that adequate psychological support to staff and residents was significantly associated with less negative impacts of the pandemic on LTC facilities' staff and residents. The results would help LTC facilities prepare for and respond to future infection outbreaks. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION No Patient or Public Contribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameh Eltaybani
- Global Nursing Research Center, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayumi Igarashi
- Department of Gerontological Home Care and Long-term Care Nursing, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayse Cal
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Ankara Medipol University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Claudia K Y Lai
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Cristina Carrasco
- Neuroimmunophysiology and Chrononutrition Research Group, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
| | | | - Eunhee Cho
- Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, Yonsei University, College of Nursing, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Gørill Haugan
- Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Department of Public Health Nursing, Trondheim, Norway
- Nord University, Faculty of Nursing and Health Science, Levanger, Norway
| | - Jorge D Bravo
- Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre(CHRC), Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | - Nesreen A Abouzeid
- Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, College of Nursing, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | | | | | - Shaimaa Samir Dawood
- Gerontological nursing department, Faculty of Nursing, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Yannis Pappas
- Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, luton, UK
| | | | - Ana Beatriz Rodríguez
- Neuroimmunophysiology and Chrononutrition Research Group, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
| | | | - Catarina Lino Neto Pereira
- Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | | | - Doris S F Yu
- School of Nursing, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong
| | - Fatma Refaat Ahmed
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Felismina Rosa P Mendes
- Departamento de Enfermagem, Escola Superior de Enfermagem São João de Deus, Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | - Gurch Randhawa
- Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, luton, UK
| | | | - Haruno Suzuki
- Department of Gerontological Home Care and Long-term Care Nursing, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hery Prambudi
- An Nasher Institute of Healh Sciences, Cirebon, Cirebon West Java, Indonesia
| | - Ilknur Aydin Avci
- Department of Public Health Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Imam Waluyo
- Padma Kumara Foundation and Consultant International, Collaboration Physiotherapy School YAB, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Irma Nurbaeti
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Islam Negeri Syarif Hidayatullah, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Jitka Vseteckova
- Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
| | | | - Justina Yw Liu
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Kari Ingstad
- Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, Nord University, Levanger, Norway
| | | | - Louise Grant
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, UK
| | | | - Mariko Sakka
- Department of Gerontological Home Care and Long-term Care Nursing, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | | | - Muhammad Arsyad Subu
- University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Universitas Binawan, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Nichola Kentzer
- Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
| | - Noura A Almadani
- Community health nursing department, College of Nursing, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Pablo Tomas-Carus
- Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | | | - Retno Indarwati
- Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Sonthaya Maneerat
- Prapokklao Nursing College, Faculty of Nursing, Praboromarajchanok Institute, Chantaburi, Thailand
| | - Wai Tong Chien
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Yuko Amamiya
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Healthcare Sciences, Chiba Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Chiba, Japan
| | | | - Noriko Yamamoto-Mitani
- Department of Gerontological Home Care and Long-term Care Nursing, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Fyffe I, Sorensen J, Carroll S, MacPhee M, Andrews-Paul A, Crooks VA, Freeman S, Davison K, Walls J, Berndt A, Shams B, Sivan M, Mithani A. Long COVID in long-term care: a rapid realist review. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e076186. [PMID: 38128935 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-076186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The goals of this rapid realist review were to ask: (a) what are the key mechanisms that drive successful interventions for long COVID in long-term care (LTC) and (b) what are the critical contexts that determine whether the mechanisms produce the intended outcomes? DESIGN Rapid realist review. DATA SOURCES Medline, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO and Web of Science for peer-reviewed literature and Google for grey literature were searched up to 23 February 2023. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA We included sources focused on interventions, persons in LTC, long COVID or post-acute phase at least 4 weeks following initial COVID-19 infection and ones that had a connection with source materials. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Three independent reviewers searched, screened and coded studies. Two independent moderators resolved conflicts. A data extraction tool organised relevant data into context-mechanism-outcome configurations using realist methodology. Twenty-one sources provided 51 intervention data excerpts used to develop our programme theory. Synthesised findings were presented to a reference group and expert panel for confirmatory purposes. RESULTS Fifteen peer-reviewed articles and six grey literature sources were eligible for inclusion. Eleven context-mechanism-outcome configurations identify those contextual factors and underlying mechanisms associated with desired outcomes, such as clinical care processes and policies that ensure timely access to requisite resources for quality care delivery, and resident-centred assessments and care planning to address resident preferences and needs. The underlying mechanisms associated with enhanced outcomes for LTC long COVID survivors were: awareness, accountability, vigilance and empathetic listening. CONCLUSIONS Although the LTC sector struggles with organisational capacity issues, they should be aware that comprehensively assessing and monitoring COVID-19 survivors and providing timely interventions to those with long COVID is imperative. This is due to the greater care needs of residents with long COVID, and coordinated efficient care is required to optimise their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Fyffe
- Long Term Care & Assisted Living, Fraser Health Authority, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Janice Sorensen
- Long Term Care & Assisted Living, Fraser Health Authority, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Simon Carroll
- Sociology, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Maura MacPhee
- Nursing, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alison Andrews-Paul
- Long Term Care & Assisted Living, Fraser Health Authority, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Valorie A Crooks
- Geography, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Shannon Freeman
- Nursing, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Karen Davison
- Institute of Life Course & Aging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Health Science Program, Faculty of Science and Horticulture, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jennifer Walls
- Long-Term Care & Assisted Living Research Partners Group, Fraser Health Authority, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Annette Berndt
- Long-Term Care & Assisted Living Research Partners Group, Fraser Health Authority, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Benajir Shams
- Long Term Care & Assisted Living, Fraser Health Authority, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Akber Mithani
- Long Term Care & Assisted Living, Fraser Health Authority, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Dubé CE, Nielsen N, McPhillips E, Lee Hargraves J, Cosenza C, Jesdale B, Lapane KL. U.S. nursing home leadership experiences with COVID-19 and its impact on residents and staff: A qualitative analysis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293336. [PMID: 38113231 PMCID: PMC10729989 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore experiences of U.S. (United States) nursing home leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic in their efforts to address resident loneliness and social isolation and to elicit stories about personal and professional impacts on themselves and staff. DESIGN Qualitative inquiry via three optional open-ended questions appended to a national self-administered survey of American nursing home leaders was employed. Textual data was analyzed using an iterative reflexive thematic approach. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS A stratified sample frame defined by facility size (beds: 30-99, 100+) and quality ratings (1, 2-4, 5) was employed. Web survey links and paper surveys were sent to 1,676 nursing home directors of nursing between February and May 2022. RESULTS Open text responses were collected from 271 nursing homes. Broad themes included: 1) Addressing needs of residents & families; 2) Challenges; and 3) Personal experiences of nursing home leadership/staff. Respondents described trauma to residents, staff, and leadership. Resident loneliness was addressed using existing and newer technologies and innovative indoor and outdoor activities. Residents experienced fear, illness, loss, and sometimes death. Isolation from family and lack of touch were particularly difficult. Regulations were seen as punitive while ignoring emotional needs of residents. Staffing challenges and pressures to do more with less created additional stress. Leadership and staff made significant sacrifices resulting in physical, social, and emotional consequences. Beneficial outcomes included staff bonding, professional growth, and permanent implementation of new interventions. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS New and creative interventions were successfully implemented to address social isolation and loneliness. Improved Wi-Fi and other nursing home infrastructure upgrades are needed to maintain them. Reimagining often conflicting overlapping federal, state, and local regulations, grounding them in good clinical judgement, and incentivizing performance improvement should be considered. Trauma experienced by staff needs to be addressed to deal with current and future workforce needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine E. Dubé
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Natalia Nielsen
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Emily McPhillips
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - J. Lee Hargraves
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Center for Survey Research, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Carol Cosenza
- Center for Survey Research, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Bill Jesdale
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Kate L. Lapane
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
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Albery GF, Sweeny AR, Webber Q. How behavioural ageing affects infectious disease. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 155:105426. [PMID: 37839673 PMCID: PMC10842249 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Ageing is associated with profound changes in behaviour that could influence exposure and susceptibility to infectious disease. As well as determining emergent patterns of infection across individuals of different ages, behavioural ageing could interact with, confound, or counteract age-related changes in other traits. Here, we examine how behavioural ageing can manifest and influence patterns of infection in wild animals. We discuss a range of age-related changes that involve interactions between behaviour and components of exposure and susceptibility to infection, including social ageing and immunosenescence, acquisition of novel parasites and pathogens with age, changes in spatial behaviours, and age-related hygiene and sickness behaviours. Overall, most behavioural changes are expected to result in a reduced exposure rate, but there is relatively little evidence for this phenomenon, emerging largely from a rarity of explicit tests of exposure changes over the lifespan. This review offers a framework for understanding how ageing, behaviour, immunity, and infection interact, providing a series of hypotheses and testable predictions to improve our understanding of health in ageing societies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory F Albery
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA; Institute of Evolutionary Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK; Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Amy R Sweeny
- School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, England, UK
| | - Quinn Webber
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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Ittefaq M. "Beating Your Head Against the Wall": Burnout on the Rise Among Local Health Department Communication Officials. Health Secur 2023; 21:440-449. [PMID: 37962563 DOI: 10.1089/hs.2023.0002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges for frontline healthcare professionals globally. Despite the varied challenges encountered by frontline healthcare professionals, the difficulties faced by public health communication officials in particular has remained an underexplored area of research. This study examined the specific challenges experienced by communication officials during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States. A qualitative research design was used to conduct in-depth interviews with communication officials working in local health departments (LHDs) in 2022. A total of 14 participants were recruited through purposive sampling, coupled with a data saturation strategy, from LHDs situated in Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. Thematic analysis revealed 3 key themes: (1) main challenges faced by LHDs during the COVID-19 pandemic, (2) challenges related to information dissemination on social media, and (3) burnout experienced by communication officials. This study's findings suggest that communication officials should be provided with the necessary resources and training to effectively handle misinformation, toxic behaviors, and bullying on social media while prioritizing their mental health. In addition, federal, state, and local health agencies should provide timely, clear, and accurate information to address the challenges faced by communication officials in their bid to disseminate information effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Ittefaq
- Muhammad Ittefaq, PhD, is an Assistant Professor, School of Communication Studies, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA
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Bußmann A, Pomorin N. Psychosocial burdens in palliative care - a longitudinal cohort study in nursing homes and impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Palliat Care 2023; 22:163. [PMID: 37891538 PMCID: PMC10612279 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-023-01292-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Germany, palliative care in nursing homes is becoming increasingly important. Simultaneously, nursing homes are particularly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic due to their vulnerable residents leading to increased burdens for nursing staff. Although a separate unit for palliative care may not be present in nursing homes as it is in, e.g., hospitals, palliative care occupies a large portion of the workday in nursing homes. As no study addressing this topic could be found, this study focused on the research questions of how the psychosocial burdens faced by nursing staff in palliative care have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and how those burdens differ from the psychosocial burdens encountered in general care. METHODS Basen on a longitudinal cohort study design, a total of 113 nurses, nursing assistants and caregivers drawn from two nursing homes in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, were surveyed pre-pandemic in 2019 and during the pandemic in 2022 using the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ) III. Data were examined descriptively following the standardised COPSOQ procedure. Additionally, chi-squared test was conducted to investigate the homogeneity between the groups. Mean differences (MD) were provided and Cohen's d was calculated to evaluate relevant differences in psychosocial burdens between 2019 and 2022. In a second step, t-tests were performed to test statistical significance. RESULTS Relevant positive changes could be identified in 'Quantitative demands' (d = 0.321; MD = 5.9), 'Influence at work' (d = 0.244; MD = 5.4), 'Job insecurity' (d = 0.321; MD = 6.5), 'Insecurity over working conditions' (d = 0.296; MD = 6.8), 'Burnout symptoms related to residents' (d = 0.201; MD = 3.8), 'Degrees of freedom' (d = 0.455; MD = 9.6) and 'Presenteeism' (d = 0.425; MD = 11.8). Relevant negative changes were found in 'Dissolution' (d = 0.217; MD = 5.4; i.e., setting boundaries between work and private life), 'Role conflicts' (d = 0.282; MD = 5.5), 'Role clarity' (d = 0.251; MD = 3.3) and 'Burnout symptoms related to relatives' (d = 0.318; MD = 6.0). Relevant changes that were statistically significant according to the t-test could be identified in 'Degrees of freedom' (t-value=-2.40; p = 0.018) and 'Presenteeism' (t-value = 2.26; p = 0.026). Responses to questions concerning nursing homes' handling of the COVID-19 pandemic exhibited a mean score of 68.2 for 'Organisation/communication' and a mean score of 78.1 concerning 'Operational measures and overall assessment' during the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSIONS Besides negative changes during the COVID-19 pandemic, some categories showed more positive results. The burdens of palliative care in nursing homes may be perceived differently than those of general care in nursing homes. Furthermore, the results indicate that perceptions of challenges in palliative care in nursing homes during the pandemic seem to be highly dependent on organisational working conditions and support that can strengthen the individual resources and resilience of the staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bußmann
- Essener Forschungsinstitut für Medizinmanagement GmbH, Essen, Germany.
| | - Natalie Pomorin
- Essener Forschungsinstitut für Medizinmanagement GmbH, Essen, Germany
- FOM Hochschule für Oekonomie & Management gemeinnützige Gesellschaft mbH, Düsseldorf, Germany
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20
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Hamuli RP, Mayhew SH, Sahani MK. Humanitarian sector (international non-governmental organisations) support to the community in Goma city/DRC during the COVID-19 pandemic period: Expectations and reality. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002086. [PMID: 37862286 PMCID: PMC10588899 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 was the largest public health emergency to disrupt social life and health systems worldwide. The pandemic affected all world continents creating fear and stress in many aspects of social life. The pandemic spread from China to Europe, then to Africa carrying with it all the negative impacts affecting population wellbeing. The COVID-19 pandemic was declared in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in March 2020 and created huge shock and stress countrywide. Goma city accommodates more than 30 international non-governmental humanitarian organisations (HO) who have sought to support local communities to help them overcome COVID-19 stress. Few studies to date have considered the role of these HO from the perspective of the beneficiary populations. This is a descriptive, analytical study, reporting data collected from a survey questionnaire to 100 community members (including 21 healthcare professionals) in Karisimbi health zone in Goma city in DRC. The study's main aim was to explore how community members viewed the contribution and impact of HO actions during COVID-19 in Goma city. We identified some important mis-matches between community expectations and HO actions which must be addressed in future outbreaks. First, community members had big expectations of HO in terms of practice support to tackle the pandemic (including providing handwashing devices and mobile support teams), yet the vast majority of respondents reported seeing little or no such actions. This can create resentment against HO and it is critically important that they rapidly engage with communities at the start of any outbreak to understand their needs and concerns and develop strategies to directly respond to these. Second, HO played a very limited role in dissemination of information about COVID-19 and were not trusted messengers. Our findings showed that most people's preferred source of information about COVID-19, specifically vaccines, was local healthcare workers-particularly those who were known well and therefore trusted. HO (and national responders) should therefore map trusted spokespersons (including healthcare professionals) in the targeted communities and involve them in the planning and implementation of interventions as essential steps in the response. Among our respondents, social media played a large role in information sharing. Further research is needed to understand the role that social media (particularly Facebook and WhatsApp which were most frequently used) could play in sharing messages from trusted sources, including official government communications. Collectively, these actions could help create a positive attitude towards COVID-19 vaccine and similar interventions in future outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger Paluku Hamuli
- Department of Research and Diseases Prevention, Centre Medical Hope, Goma city, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Susannah H. Mayhew
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mateus Kambale Sahani
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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21
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Shahidi F, Rennert-May E, D'Souza AG, Crocker A, Faris P, Leal J. Machine learning risk estimation and prediction of death in continuing care facilities using administrative data. Sci Rep 2023; 13:17708. [PMID: 37853045 PMCID: PMC10584843 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43943-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to identify the factors that were associated with mortality among continuing care residents in Alberta, during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We achieved this by leveraging and linking various administrative datasets together. Then, we examined pre-processing methods in terms of prediction performance. Finally, we developed several machine learning models and compared the results of these models in terms of performance. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of all continuing care residents in Alberta, Canada, from March 1, 2020, to March 31, 2021. We used a univariable and a multivariable logistic regression (LR) model to identify predictive factors of 60-day all-cause mortality by estimating odds ratios (ORs) with a 95% confidence interval. To determine the best sensitivity-specificity cut-off point, the Youden index was employed. We developed several machine learning models to determine the best model regarding performance. In this cohort study, increased age, male sex, symptoms, previous admissions, and some specific comorbidities were associated with increased mortality. Machine learning and pre-processing approaches offer a potentially valuable method for improving risk prediction for mortality, but more work is needed to show improvement beyond standard risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faezehsadat Shahidi
- Electrical and Software Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Elissa Rennert-May
- Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- O'Brien Institute for Public Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Infectious Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- AMR - One Health Consortium, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Adam G D'Souza
- Centre for Health Informatics, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Analytics, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Alysha Crocker
- Clinical Information Systems, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Peter Faris
- Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Analytics, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jenine Leal
- Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
- O'Brien Institute for Public Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Infectious Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
- AMR - One Health Consortium, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
- Infection Prevention and Control, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AB, Canada.
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22
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Shibata T, Okano S, Onozuka D, Ohta E, Kutsuna S. Analysis of Concentrated COVID-19 Outbreaks in Elderly Facilities in Suita City, Osaka Prefecture, Japan. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6926. [PMID: 37887664 PMCID: PMC10606492 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20206926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
There are several types of facilities for elderly individuals in Japan. Infection control efforts, such as care provision and medical care access, differ according to the type of facility. Elderly individuals at these facilities who were infected with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) experienced severe illness and mortality. This study aimed to determine the characteristics of concentrated COVID-19 outbreaks that occurred in nursing homes and care facilities in Suita City. During this study, twenty-five elderly facilities in Suita City with a capacity of 40 or more individuals where an outbreak occurred during the sixth or seventh wave of infection were included. We investigated whether there was a difference in the COVID-19 incidence and the percentage of positive cases according to the type of facility. We also investigated the relationship between the facility capacity and positive case rate and that between the number of positive cases and outbreak duration. The incidence rate of COVID-19 was significantly different according to the facility type (p < 0.001). No association was found between the facility capacity and positive case rate. The outbreak duration increased as the number of positive cases increased (p = 0.004).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sawa Okano
- Suita City Public Health Center, Suita 564-0072, Japan
| | - Daisuke Onozuka
- Department of Infection Prevention and Control, Osaka University Hospital, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Etsuko Ohta
- Department of Infection Prevention and Control, Osaka University Hospital, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kutsuna
- Department of Infection Prevention and Control, Osaka University Hospital, Suita 565-0871, Japan
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23
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Goodwin J, Harizaj A, Armstrong J, Maloney M, Ehrlich H, Leung V, Parikh S. Lessons Learned from the Connecticut Response to COVID-19 in Nursing Homes during the First 2 Years of the Pandemic. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2023; 24:1573-1578.e1. [PMID: 37591486 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2023.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
Nearly half of all SARS-CoV-2-related deaths in the United States occurred in long-term care facilities during the early pandemic. In Connecticut, statewide mitigation of this impact involved a collaboration between the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the Yale School of Public Health, alongside existing relationships with the long-term care industry and individual facilities. This close government-academic-industry collaboration facilitated the creation of a robust COVID-19 surveillance system that allowed for real-time analysis and identification of nursing homes where outbreak support was needed. The collaboration further facilitated vaccine and booster deployment to Connecticut nursing homes at a speed that outpaced much of the country. The impact of these interventions is demonstrated through COVID-19 case and death burdens among nursing home residents and the greater Connecticut population during each wave of the pandemic. We outline the evolution and impact of these alliances and how they enabled us to prioritize facilities, interventions, and the distribution of limited resources and training throughout the pandemic. We further detail lessons learned over the first 2 years of the pandemic. Such partnerships strengthen our ability to respond effectively to public health crises and should be created and/or maintained in the face of continued pandemic threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Goodwin
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Adora Harizaj
- Connecticut Department of Public Health, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - Jillian Armstrong
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Meghan Maloney
- Connecticut Department of Public Health, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - Hanna Ehrlich
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Vivian Leung
- Connecticut Department of Public Health, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - Sunil Parikh
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA.
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24
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Sun AH, Ménard A, Farrell E, Filip A, Katz A, Orosz Z, Hsu AT. Perceptions of Palliative and End-Of-Life Care Capacity Among Frontline Staff and Administrators in Long-Term Care Homes During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Ontario, Canada: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2023; 24:1586-1593. [PMID: 37488030 PMCID: PMC10293894 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2023.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly affected the morbidity and mortality of residents in long-term care (LTC) homes. However, not much is known about its impact on staff's perception of their capacity to provide palliative and end-of-life (EOL) care for LTC residents over the course of the pandemic. We investigated changes in self-reported confidence among LTC workers and their experience in providing palliative and EOL care to residents before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN Mixed-methods evaluation using a survey (n = 19) and semistructured interviews (n = 28). SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Frontline workers from 9 LTC homes who participated in Communication at End-of-Life Program in Ontario, Canada, between August 2019 and March 2020. METHODS The survey captured LTC staff's confidence level, including attitudes toward death and dying; relationships with residents and families; and participation in palliative and EOL care. The interviews identified facilitators and barriers to providing palliative and EOL care during the pandemic. RESULTS The COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted frontline LTC staff's confidence in their role as palliative care providers. Participants also reported notable challenges to providing resident-centered palliative and EOL care. Specifically, visitation restriction has led to increased loneliness and isolation of residents and impeded staff's ability to build supportive relationships with families. Furthermore, staffing shortages due to the single-site work restriction and illness increased workload. Psychological stress caused by a fear of COVID-19 infection and transmission also hindered staff's capacity to provide good palliative and EOL care. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Frontline LTC staff-even those who felt competent in their knowledge and skills in providing palliative and EOL care after receiving training-reported notable difficulties in providing resident-centered palliative and EOL care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie H Sun
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Ontario Centres for Learning, Research and Innovation in Long-Term Care at Bruyère, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alixe Ménard
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Emily Farrell
- Ontario Centres for Learning, Research and Innovation in Long-Term Care at Bruyère, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Angelina Filip
- Ontario Centres for Learning, Research and Innovation in Long-Term Care at Bruyère, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea Katz
- Ontario Centres for Learning, Research and Innovation in Long-Term Care at Bruyère, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zsofia Orosz
- Ontario Centres for Learning, Research and Innovation in Long-Term Care at Bruyère, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amy T Hsu
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Ontario Centres for Learning, Research and Innovation in Long-Term Care at Bruyère, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Department of Family Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
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25
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Chuang ST, Lin MH, Hsu H, Chi CM, Lee YR, Yen YH. Epidemic-Prevention Measures and Health Management in a Nursing Home during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2535. [PMID: 37761732 PMCID: PMC10531124 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11182535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the impact of epidemic prevention and isolation policies on residents' health and well-being and assess the effectiveness of implementing intervention measures to maintain their quality of life. This mixed-methods research study involved a retrospective record review of residents' daily life diaries and descriptive statistical analysis. Data were collected between March 2021 and June 2022, and epidemic-prevention measures were implemented using Taiwan's Centers for Disease Control guidelines. Three interventions were developed to address residents' health, social, and rehabilitation needs. Despite an overall infection rate of 10% at various times between 2021 and 2022, there were no reported outbreaks of nosocomial infections. The concept of reablement proved effective in helping residents maintain their independence and physical function, with a maintenance rate of 66.6%, thereby improving their quality of life. By implementing epidemic-prevention measures, we found that proper hand washing and the use of surgical masks were effective in controlling infections. Furthermore, the decline in physical function is a continuous and gradual process for older adults. Even under the restriction of social interaction, it is essential to incorporate rehabilitation plans into residents' daily activities and encourage their active participation, as this promotes improved physical function and enhances their overall quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Ting Chuang
- Department of Nursing, Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Taichung City 427213, Taiwan;
- Department of Nursing, Tzu Chi University of Science and Technology, Hualien 970046, Taiwan
- Taichung Tzu Chi Nursing Home, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Taichung City 427213, Taiwan; (C.-M.C.); (Y.-R.L.)
| | - Mei-Hui Lin
- Department of Accounting Information, Da-Yeh University, Changhua 515006, Taiwan;
| | - Honda Hsu
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Chiayi City 622007, Taiwan;
- School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 970374, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Ming Chi
- Taichung Tzu Chi Nursing Home, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Taichung City 427213, Taiwan; (C.-M.C.); (Y.-R.L.)
- Ph.D. Program in Healthcare Science, China Medical University, Taichung City 406040, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ru Lee
- Taichung Tzu Chi Nursing Home, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Taichung City 427213, Taiwan; (C.-M.C.); (Y.-R.L.)
| | - Ya-Hui Yen
- Department of Nursing, National Chi Nan University, Puli Township 545301, Taiwan
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26
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Kortes-Miller K, Natale M, Wilson K, Stinchcombe A. The Perpetual Pivot: Understanding Care Partner Experiences in Ontario Long-Term Care Homes during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Geriatrics (Basel) 2023; 8:90. [PMID: 37736890 PMCID: PMC10514792 DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics8050090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Long-term care homes (LTCHs) were impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic. With their ever-changing conditions and restrictions, care partners' roles in LTCHs changed drastically. In this cross-sectional study, an electronic survey was used to examine the experiences of care part-ners who were caring for one or more adults in an Ontario LTCH during the pandemic. The survey was circulated through social media (convenience sample) which produced a convenience sample of 81 caregiver participants. Visit characteristics and a comparison in the quality of care in LTCHs was analyzed before the pandemic as well as during the most restrictive times. Visitation lengths and frequencies, other sources of communication such as phone and video calls, and various types of care provided by caregivers such as personal grooming and personal care all decreased significantly during the pandemic. Care partners also reported that the health of their care recipients decreased significantly during restrictive visitation times. Through thematic analysis, we identified three themes: restrictions and changing LTCH conditions created (1) social isolation and an erosion of connection, (2) a communication breakdown, and (3) a lack of person-centered care. Findings from this research can promote the health and wellbeing of residents and care partners within LTCHs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maïa Natale
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Kimberley Wilson
- Department of Family Relations and Applied Nutrition, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Arne Stinchcombe
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
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27
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Burton JK, Drummond M, Gallacher KI, Quinn TJ. Listening and learning: a qualitative study of Scottish care home staff experiences of managing COVID-19 between March 2020-August 2022. BMC Geriatr 2023; 23:544. [PMID: 37679720 PMCID: PMC10485989 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-04251-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The serious outcomes of outbreaks of COVID-19 in care homes have been described internationally. The experiences of professionals working through outbreaks has received less attention, missing opportunities to acknowledge and learn lessons. Our aim was to explore the experiences of care home staff in Scotland of managing COVID-19 within their homes to help inform understanding and future practice. METHODS From April to August 2022, 34 individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with care home staff working in homes which experienced an outbreak(s) of COVID-19. Reflexive thematic methods were used to analyse verbatim deidentified transcripts. FINDINGS There was no singular experience of COVID-19 outbreaks within care homes. We identified four broad groupings of homes with outbreaks (significant outbreaks, managed outbreaks, outbreaks in remote/rural homes & outbreaks in homes supporting younger adults), with overlaps in timing and severity and variation in the support received and impact. The national response to the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in fundamental change to care home relationships. Staff responded by adaptation in uncertainty. However, they were challenged by emerging inequalities influencing residents' care. There were tensions between staff experience and evolving external approaches to regulation and oversight. All this change resulted in psychological impacts on staff. However, there was also widespread evidence of compassionate leadership and teamwork in their responses. Effective sources of support were underpinned by respectful relationships and continuity, tailored to individual contexts. CONCLUSIONS The lived experiences of care home staff during the COVID-19 pandemic provide valuable insights applicable beyond the pandemic context. This includes: recognition of the specialism, complexity and diversity of care home practice; the value afforded by embedding genuine representation and involvement in planning, policy-making and research; the need for individualising to people in their contexts and the value of fostering respectful relationships across professional groups to support residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Kirsty Burton
- Academic Geriatric Medicine, School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health, College of Medicine, Veterinary & Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8TA, Scotland.
- School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health, New Lister Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Room 2.42 Level 2, Alexandra Parade, G31 2ER, Glasgow, Scotland.
| | - Maria Drummond
- Nursing & Health Care, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing, College of Medicine, Veterinary & Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8LW, Scotland
| | - Katie I Gallacher
- General Practice & Primary Care, School of Health and Wellbeing, College of Medicine, Veterinary & Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8TB, Scotland
| | - Terence J Quinn
- Academic Geriatric Medicine, School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health, College of Medicine, Veterinary & Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8TA, Scotland
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28
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Paris M, Audet M, Brochu H, Brochu M, Desjardins C, Langlois L, Rousseau C. [La mise en abyme d'un projet intergénérationnel de recherche: Un comité intergénérationnel comme processus et sujet de recherche]. Can J Aging 2023; 42:416-424. [PMID: 37424443 DOI: 10.1017/s0714980823000041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Les projets de nature intergénérationnelle sont aujourd'hui hautement valorisés par les décideurs publics et les responsables académiques. La pandémie de COVID-19 a fait ressurgir l'importance des relations entre les générations et des projets intergénérationnels ancrés dans la communauté. Cet article présente les résultats d'une étude visant à faire travailler ensemble des personnes aînées et des jeunes adultes au sein d'un projet intergénérationnel ancré dans la communauté. La particularité dans cette étude c'est qu'elle utilise une démarche méthodologique co-constructive, c'est-à-dire qu'elle jumelle des chercheurs et des chercheures académiques de différents horizons et des personnes aînées citoyennes tout au long du processus de recherche. Les résultats portent particulièrement sur les attentes des personnes participantes au projet intergénérationnel, la description du déroulement du projet (sur une période de dix mois) et les perceptions des relations intergénérationnelles au cours du projet. Nous terminons l'article par une discussion autour des constats centraux de notre étude et de notre expérience dans le cadre d'une recherche co-constructive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Paris
- Université de Moncton, École de travail social, 1 Moncton, NB, Canada
| | - Mélisa Audet
- Centre de recherche sur le vieillissement, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | | | - Martin Brochu
- Université de Sherbrooke, Faculté des sciences de l'activité physique, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
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29
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Pickering J, Wister AV, O'Dea E, Chaudhury H. Social isolation and loneliness among older adults living in rural areas during the COVID-19 pandemic: a scoping review. BMC Geriatr 2023; 23:511. [PMID: 37612647 PMCID: PMC10464360 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-04196-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The causes and consequences of social isolation and loneliness of older people living in rural contexts during the COVID-19 pandemic were systematically reviewed to describe patterns, causes and consequences. METHODS Using the Arksey and O'Malley (2005) scoping review method, searches were conducted between March and December 2022, 1013 articles were screened and 29 were identified for data extraction. RESULTS Findings were summarized using thematic analysis separated into four major themes: prevalence of social isolation and loneliness; rural-only research; comparative urban-rural research; and technological and other interventions. Core factors for each of these themes describe the experiences of older people during the COVID-19 pandemic and related lockdowns. We observed that there are interrelationships and some contradictory findings among the themes. CONCLUSIONS Social isolation and loneliness are associated with a wide variety of health problems and challenges, highlighting the need for further research. This scoping review systematically identified several important insights into existing knowledge from the experiences of older people living in rural areas during the COVID-19 pandemic, while pointing to pressing knowledge and policy gaps that can be addressed in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Pickering
- Gerontology Research Centre, Simon Fraser University, 2800-515 Hastings Street Vancouver, Burnaby, BC, V6B 5K3, Canada.
| | - Andrew V Wister
- Gerontology Research Centre, Simon Fraser University, 2800-515 Hastings Street Vancouver, Burnaby, BC, V6B 5K3, Canada
- Department of Gerontology, Simon Fraser University, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Eireann O'Dea
- Department of Gerontology, Simon Fraser University, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Habib Chaudhury
- Gerontology Research Centre, Simon Fraser University, 2800-515 Hastings Street Vancouver, Burnaby, BC, V6B 5K3, Canada
- Department of Gerontology, Simon Fraser University, British Columbia, Canada
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Goździewicz Ł, Tobis S, Chojnicki M, Chudek J, Wieczorowska-Tobis K, Idasiak-Piechocka I, Merks P, Religioni U, Neumann-Podczaska A. Long-Term Impairment in Activities of Daily Living Following COVID-19 in Residents of Long-Term Care Facilities. Med Sci Monit 2023; 29:e941197. [PMID: 37583130 PMCID: PMC10441154 DOI: 10.12659/msm.941197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long-term care facilities were severely impacted during the COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) pandemic. Residents surviving the disease might continue to suffer from the post-COVID syndrome, similar to community-dwelling persons. This study aimed to characterize the longitudinal evolution of activities of daily living in COVID-19 survivors from long-term institutional care. MATERIAL AND METHODS This was a retrospective study with prospective follow-up of consecutive COVID-19 survivors living in long-term care facilities. The Barthel Index was used to assess changes in functional independence before the disease, right after recovery, and 3 months later. RESULTS The study enrolled 201 residents of long-term care facilities, median age 79 years old, who survived 3 months after recovery from COVID-19. The disease caused hospitalization in 47% of cases. Early after COVID-19, deterioration in activities of daily living was higher in older, hospitalized patients with cardiovascular comorbidity. However, in the long-term follow-up, these factors did not predict functioning. Independence was severely affected in hospitalized and non-hospitalized COVID-19 patients. This had implications for post-COVID care and rehabilitation since these interventions were mainly offered after hospitalization. CONCLUSIONS The findings support that residents of long-term care facilities who had COVID-19, even with a mild clinical course, may have persistent impairment in function and ability to perform activities of daily living that require support and rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Łukasz Goździewicz
- Geriatric Unit, Department of Palliative Medicine, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Sławomir Tobis
- Department of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Michał Chojnicki
- Department of Immunobiology, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Józef Struś Hospital, Poznań, Poland
| | - Jerzy Chudek
- Department of Internal Medicine and Oncological Chemotherapy, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
| | | | - Ilona Idasiak-Piechocka
- Department of Nephrology, Transplantology and Internal Medicine, University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Piotr Merks
- Collegium Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Urszula Religioni
- School of Public Health, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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Whelan M, Galipeau Y, White-Al Habeeb N, Konforte D, Abou El Hassan M, Booth RA, Arnold C, Langlois MA, Pelchat M. Cross-sectional Characterization of SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Levels and Decay Rates Following Infection of Unvaccinated Elderly Individuals. Open Forum Infect Dis 2023; 10:ofad384. [PMID: 37547857 PMCID: PMC10404006 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofad384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background SARS-CoV-2 infections have disproportionally burdened elderly populations with excessive mortality. While several contributing factors exists, questions remain about the quality and duration of humoral antibody-mediated responses resulting from infections in unvaccinated elderly individuals. Methods Residual serum/plasma samples were collected from individuals undergoing routine SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction testing in a community laboratory in Canada. The samples were collected in 2020, before vaccines became available. IgG, IgA, and IgM antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid, trimeric spike, and its receptor-binding domain were quantified via a high-throughput chemiluminescent enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Neutralization efficiency was also quantified through a surrogate high-throughput protein-based neutralization assay. Results This study analyzed SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels in a large cross-sectional cohort (N = 739), enriched for elderly individuals (median age, 82 years; 75% >65 years old), where 72% of samples tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 by polymerase chain reaction. The age group ≥90 years had higher levels of antibodies than that <65 years. Neutralization efficiency showed an age-dependent trend, where older persons had higher levels of neutralizing antibodies. Antibodies targeting the nucleocapsid had the fastest decline. IgG antibodies targeting the receptor-binding domain remained stable over time, potentially explaining the lack of neutralization decay observed in this cohort. Conclusions Despite older individuals having the highest levels of antibodies postinfection, they are the cohort in which antibody decay was the fastest. Until a better understanding of correlates of protection is acquired, along with the protective role of nonneutralizing antibodies, booster vaccinations remain important in this demographic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilyn Whelan
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Yannick Galipeau
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | | | | | - Mohamed Abou El Hassan
- LifeLabs Medical Laboratory Services, Etobicoke, Canada
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Ronald A Booth
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and the Eastern Ontario Regional Laboratory Association, University of Ottawa and The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Corey Arnold
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Marc-André Langlois
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
- Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Martin Pelchat
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
- Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
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Verderber S, Koyabashi U, Cruz CD, Sadat A, Anderson DC. Residential Environments for Older Persons: A Comprehensive Literature Review (2005-2022). HERD-HEALTH ENVIRONMENTS RESEARCH & DESIGN JOURNAL 2023; 16:291-337. [PMID: 37078127 PMCID: PMC10328148 DOI: 10.1177/19375867231152611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Independent noninstitutional and institutional residential long-term care environments for older persons have been the subject of significant empirical and qualitative research in the 2005-2022 period. A comprehensive review of this literature is reported, summarizing recent advancements in this rapidly expanding body of knowledge. PURPOSE AND AIM This comprehensive review conceptually structures the recent literature on environment and aging to provide conceptual clarity and identify current and future trends. METHOD AND RESULT Each source reviewed was classified as one of the five types-opinion piece/essay, cross-sectional empirical investigation, nonrandomized comparative investigation, randomized study, and policy review essay-within eight content categories: community-based aging in place; residentialism; nature, landscape, and biophilia; dementia special care units; voluntary/involuntary relocation; infection control/COVID-19, safety/environmental stress; ecological and cost-effective best practices; and recent design trends and prognostications. CONCLUSIONS Among the findings embodied in the 204 literature sources reviewed, all-private room long-term care residential units are generally safer and provide greater privacy and personal autonomy to residents, the deleterious impacts of involuntary relocation continue, family engagement in policy making and daily routines has increased, multigenerational independent living alternatives are increasing, the therapeutic role of nature and landscape is increasingly well-documented, ecological sustainability has increased in priority, and infection control measures are of high priority in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Discussion of the results of this comprehensive review sets the stage for further research and design advancements on this subject in light of the rapid aging of societies around the globe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Verderber
- Centre for Design + Health Innovation, John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape and Design, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Umi Koyabashi
- Centre for Design + Health Innovation, John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape and Design, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Catherine Dela Cruz
- John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape and Design, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Aseel Sadat
- John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape and Design, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Diana C. Anderson
- Boston University School of Medicine, MA, USA
- Jacobs, Dallas, TX, USA
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Shamon S, Gill A, Meadows L, Kruizinga J, Kaasalainen S, Pereira J. Providing palliative and end-of-life care in long-term care during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study of clinicians' lived experiences. CMAJ Open 2023; 11:E745-E753. [PMID: 37607749 PMCID: PMC10449019 DOI: 10.9778/cmajo.20220238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A disproportionate number of COVID-19-related deaths in Canada occurred in long-term care homes, affecting residents, families and staff alike. This study explored the experiences of long-term care clinicians with respect to providing palliative and end-of-life care during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We used a qualitative research approach. Long-term care physicians and nurse practitioners (NPs) in Ontario, Canada, participated in semistructured interviews between August and September of 2021. Interviews were undertaken virtually, and results were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Twelve clinicians (7 physicians and 5 NPs) were interviewed. We identified 5 themes, each with several subthemes: providing a palliative approach to care, increased work demands and changing roles, communication and collaboration, impact of isolation and visitation restrictions, and impact on the providers' personal lives. Clinicians described facing several concurrent challenges, including the uncertainty of COVID-19 illness, staffing and supply shortages, witnessing many deaths, and distress caused by isolation. These resulted in burnout and feelings of moral distress. Previous training and integration of the palliative care approach in the long-term care home, access to resources, increased communication and interprofessional collaboration, and strong leadership mitigated the impact and led to improved palliative care and a sense of pride while facing these challenges. INTERPRETATION The pandemic had a considerable impact on clinicians caring for residents in long-term care homes at the end of life. It is important to address these lived experiences and use the lessons learned to identify strategies to improve palliative care in long-term care homes and reduce the impact of future pandemics with respect to palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandy Shamon
- Division of Palliative Care (Shamon, Gill, Pereira), Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine (Meadows), University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta.; School of Nursing (Kruizinga, Kaasalainen), Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Pallium Canada (Pereira), Ottawa, Ont.
| | - Ashlinder Gill
- Division of Palliative Care (Shamon, Gill, Pereira), Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine (Meadows), University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta.; School of Nursing (Kruizinga, Kaasalainen), Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Pallium Canada (Pereira), Ottawa, Ont
| | - Lynn Meadows
- Division of Palliative Care (Shamon, Gill, Pereira), Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine (Meadows), University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta.; School of Nursing (Kruizinga, Kaasalainen), Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Pallium Canada (Pereira), Ottawa, Ont
| | - Julia Kruizinga
- Division of Palliative Care (Shamon, Gill, Pereira), Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine (Meadows), University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta.; School of Nursing (Kruizinga, Kaasalainen), Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Pallium Canada (Pereira), Ottawa, Ont
| | - Sharon Kaasalainen
- Division of Palliative Care (Shamon, Gill, Pereira), Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine (Meadows), University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta.; School of Nursing (Kruizinga, Kaasalainen), Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Pallium Canada (Pereira), Ottawa, Ont
| | - José Pereira
- Division of Palliative Care (Shamon, Gill, Pereira), Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine (Meadows), University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta.; School of Nursing (Kruizinga, Kaasalainen), Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Pallium Canada (Pereira), Ottawa, Ont
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Kim Y, Yang SC, Jang J, Park SY, Kim SS, Kim C, Kwon D, Lee SW. COVID-19 Cases and Deaths among Healthcare Personnel with the Progression of the Pandemic in Korea from March 2020 to February 2022. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:308. [PMID: 37368726 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8060308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Healthcare personnel (HCP) are vulnerable to COVID-19 infection due to their higher risk of contact with infected persons. The numbers of cases and deaths among HCP in Korea were divided into four periods associated with different major variants of SARS-CoV-2: GH clade, Alpha, Delta, and Omicron. To evaluate the implication of HCP infection in Korea, we overviewed the pandemic status in Korea and in other countries: the cases, deaths, excess mortality, and vaccination rates in Germany, Israel, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In about two years, there were 10,670 HCP cases among all COVID-19 cases (1.15% of 925,975 cases). HCP cases had a lower death rate (%) compared to that for all cases (0.14 versus 0.75). Nurses were the most infected (55.3%), followed by HCP of other categories (28.8%) and doctors (15.9%), while deaths were mostly reported among doctors (9 out of 15, 60%). Cases among HCP gradually increased, but the death rate decreased as the pandemic progressed. Compared to five of the other countries examined, Korea had a higher incidence of cases but a lower mortality, lower excess mortality, and a higher vaccination rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeonju Kim
- Division of Public Health Emergency Response Research, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), Cheongju 28159, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Chan Yang
- Division of Public Health Emergency Response Research, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), Cheongju 28159, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinhwa Jang
- Division of Public Health Emergency Response Research, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), Cheongju 28159, Republic of Korea
| | - Shin Young Park
- Division of Public Health Emergency Response Research, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), Cheongju 28159, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Sun Kim
- Division of Public Health Emergency Response Research, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), Cheongju 28159, Republic of Korea
| | - Chansoo Kim
- AI/R Lab, AI-Robot Department, University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- AI/R Lab, Computational Science Center & ASSIST, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Donghyok Kwon
- Division of Public Health Emergency Response Research, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), Cheongju 28159, Republic of Korea
- Division of Epidemiological Investigation Analysis, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), Cheongju 28159, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Won Lee
- Public Health Emergency Preparedness, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), Cheongju 28159, Republic of Korea
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Dix S, Rawson H, Russo P, Team V, Griffiths D, Morphet J. Practical infection control training for Victoria's aged care workforce at the time of COVID-19 pandemic: a community case study. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1155980. [PMID: 37304118 PMCID: PMC10248151 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1155980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The need to improve career development and training for residential aged care workers in Australia to achieve required essential competencies, including infection prevention and control competencies, has been repeatedly highlighted. In Australia long-term care settings for older adults are known as residential aged care facilities (RACFs). The COVID-19 pandemic has brought to light the lack of preparedness of the aged care sector to respond to emergencies, and the urgent need to improve the infection prevention and control training in residential aged care facilities. The government in the Australian State of Victoria allocated funds to support older Australians in RACFs, including funds toward infection prevention and control training of RACF staff. The School of Nursing and Midwifery at Monash University addressed some of these challenges in delivering an education program on effective infection prevention and control practices to the RACF workforce in Victoria, Australia. This was the largest state-funded program delivered to RACF workers to date in the State of Victoria. The aim of this paper is to provide a community case study, where we share our experience of program planning and implementation during early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic and lessons learned.
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Mazzilli S, Scardina G, Collini F, Forni S, Gianolio G, Bisceglia L, Lopalco PL, Chieti A, Onder G, Vanacore N, Bonaccorsi G, Gemmi F, Tavoschi L. Hospital admission and mortality rates for non-Covid diseases among residents of the long-term care facilities before and during the pandemic: a cohort study in two Italian regions. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR GESUNDHEITSWISSENSCHAFTEN = JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2023:1-13. [PMID: 37361287 PMCID: PMC10185456 DOI: 10.1007/s10389-023-01925-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Aim Long-term-care facility residents are a vulnerable population who experienced reduced healthcare access during the pandemic. This study aimed to assess the indirect impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, in terms of hospitalisation and mortality rates, among this population in two Italian Regions, Tuscany and Apulia, during 2020 in comparison with the pre-pandemic period. Subject and methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study on people residing in long-term-care facilities from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2020 (baseline period: 1 January 2018-8 March 2020; pandemic period: and 9 March-31 December 2020). Hospitalisation rates were stratified by sex and major disease groups. Standardised weekly rates were estimated with a Poisson regression model. Only for Tuscany, mortality risk at 30 days after hospitalisation was calculated with the Kaplan-Meier estimator. Mortality risk ratios were calculated using Cox proportional regression models. Results Nineteen thousand two hundred and fifty individuals spent at least 7 days in a long-term-care facility during the study period. The overall mean non-Covid hospital admission rate per 100 000 residents/week was 144.1 and 116.2 during the baseline and pandemic periods, with a decrease to 99.7 and 77.3 during the first (March-May) and second lockdown (November-December). Hospitalisation rates decreased for all major disease groups. Thirty-day mortality risk ratios for non-Covid conditions increased during the pandemic period (1.2, 1.1 to 1.4) compared with baseline. Conclusion The pandemic resulted in worse non-COVID-related health outcomes for long-term-care facilities' residents. There is a need to prioritise these facilities in national pandemic preparedness plans and to ensure their full integration in national surveillance systems. Supplementary information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10389-023-01925-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Mazzilli
- Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giuditta Scardina
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Collini
- Quality and Equity Unit, Regional Health Agency of Tuscany, Florence, Italy
| | - Silvia Forni
- Quality and Equity Unit, Regional Health Agency of Tuscany, Florence, Italy
| | - Giulio Gianolio
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Lucia Bisceglia
- Strategic Regional Health and Social Agency of Puglia (AReSS Puglia), Bari, Italy
| | - Pier Luigi Lopalco
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technology, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Antonio Chieti
- Strategic Regional Health and Social Agency of Puglia (AReSS Puglia), Bari, Italy
| | - Graziano Onder
- Department of Cardiovascular, Endocrine-Metabolic Diseases and Aging, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Vanacore
- National Centre for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Fabrizio Gemmi
- Quality and Equity Unit, Regional Health Agency of Tuscany, Florence, Italy
| | - Lara Tavoschi
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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Gensichen J, Zöllinger I, Gagyor I, Hausen A, Hölscher M, Janke C, Kühlein T, Nassehi A, Teupser D, Arend FM, Eidenschink C, Hindenburg D, Kosub H, Kurotschka PK, Lindemann D, Mayr K, Müller S, Rink L, Rottenkolber M, Sanftenberg L, Schwaiger R, Sebastião M, Wildgruber D, Dreischulte T. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people in need of care or support: protocol for a SARS-CoV-2 registry. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e071134. [PMID: 37192790 PMCID: PMC10192580 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-071134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION People in need of care or support are severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. We lack valid data of long-term assessments. We present a register study to detect the physical and psychosocial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people in need of care or support in Bavaria, Germany. To describe the persons' life conditions comprehensively, we assess the perspectives and needs of the respective care teams too. Results will serve as evidence-based source to manage the pandemic and long-term prevention strategies. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The 'Bavarian ambulatory COVID-19 Monitor' is a multicentre registry including a purposive sample of up to 1000 patient-participants across three study sites in Bavaria. The study group consists of 600 people in need of care with a positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR test. Control group 1 comprises 200 people in need of care with a negative SARS-CoV-2 PCR test, while control group 2 comprises 200 people with a positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR test but are not in need of care. We assess the clinical course of infection, psychosocial aspects and care needs using validated measures. Follow-up is every 6 months for up to 3 years. Additionally, we assess up to 400 people linked to these patient-participants (caregivers, general practitioners (GPs)) for their health and needs. Main analyses are stratified by level of care I-V (I=minor/V=most severe impairment of independence), inpatient/outpatient care setting, sex and age. We use descriptive and inferential statistics to analyse cross-sectional data and changes over time. In qualitative interviews with 60 stakeholders (people in need of care, caregivers, GPs, politicians), we explore interface problems of different functional logics, of everyday and professional perspectives. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The Institutional Review Board of the University Hospital LMU Munich (#20-860) and the study sites (Universities of Wurzburg and Erlangen) approved the protocol. We disseminate the results by peer-reviewed publications, international conferences, governmental reports, etc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jochen Gensichen
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Isabel Zöllinger
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ildiko Gagyor
- Institute of General Practice, University Hospital of Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Anita Hausen
- Katholische Stiftungshochschule München/University of Applied Sciences, Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Hölscher
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the University of LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Christian Janke
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the University of LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Kühlein
- Institute of General Practice, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Armin Nassehi
- Institute of Sociology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - Daniel Teupser
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Florian M Arend
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Christine Eidenschink
- Institute of General Practice, University Hospital of Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Dagmar Hindenburg
- Institute of General Practice, University Hospital of Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Helena Kosub
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Peter Konstantin Kurotschka
- Institute of General Practice, University Hospital of Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Lindemann
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Katharina Mayr
- Institute of Sociology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - Susan Müller
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Laura Rink
- Institute of General Practice, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Marietta Rottenkolber
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Linda Sanftenberg
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Rita Schwaiger
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Maria Sebastião
- Institute of General Practice, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Domenika Wildgruber
- Katholische Stiftungshochschule München/University of Applied Sciences, Munich, Germany
| | - Tobias Dreischulte
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
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Bossuyt FM, Bogdanova Y, Kingsley KT, Bergquist TF, Kolakowsky-Hayner SA, Omar Z, Popova ES, Tobita M, Constantinidou F. Evolution of rehabilitation services in response to a global pandemic: reflection on opportunities and challenges ahead. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2023; 4:1173558. [PMID: 37255738 PMCID: PMC10226080 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2023.1173558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The rapidly evolving COVID-19 public health emergency has disrupted and challenged traditional healthcare, rehabilitation services, and treatment delivery worldwide. This perspective paper aimed to unite experiences and perspectives from an international group of rehabilitation providers while reflecting on the lessons learned from the challenges and opportunities raised during the COVID-19 pandemic. We discuss the global appreciation for rehabilitation services and changes in access to healthcare, including virtual, home-based rehabilitation, and long-term care rehabilitation. We illustrate lessons learned by highlighting successful rehabilitation approaches from the US, Belgium, and Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fransiska M. Bossuyt
- Neuro-musculoskeletal Functioning and Mobility Group, Swiss Paraplegic Research, Nottwil, Switzerland
| | - Yelena Bogdanova
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kristine T. Kingsley
- Institute of Emotional and Cognitive Wellness, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Psychology, Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Thomas F. Bergquist
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | | | - Zaliha Binti Omar
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine 1, Fujita Health University, Aichi, Japan
| | - Evguenia S. Popova
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Rush University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Mari Tobita
- Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center, Downey, CA, United States
- Rancho Research Institute, Downey, CA, United States
| | - Fofi Constantinidou
- Center for Applied Neuroscience & Department of Psychology, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
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de Melo RC, Schutz V, Wachholz PA, Villalonga-Olives E, Myer D, Corazzini K, Lepore M. Long-Term Care Staff Perspectives on the Care of Persons Living With Dementia During the COVID-19 Pandemic in São Paulo State, Brazil. J Gerontol Nurs 2023; 49:45-52. [PMID: 37126010 DOI: 10.3928/00989134-20230414-05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Brazilian long-term care (LTC) sector faced many challenges, which accentuated other common issues experienced by persons living with dementia (PLWD). The current pilot study evaluated staff perspectives regarding the care of institutionalized PLWD during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using an online survey, we collected the perspectives of 24 workers from seven long-term care facilities (LTCFs) located in São Paulo State, Brazil, about the impact of COVID-19 in caring for PLWD. Results highlight concerns about challenges related to following precautionary measures and the negative effects of social distancing on PLWD. Aspects related to workforce and staffing and person-centered care approaches were recognized by staff as important to provide good care for PLWD. Future research is needed to consider how to support LTCFs in achieving a balance between the protection and well-being of PLWD. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 49(5), 45-52.].
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Rabilloud M, Elsensohn MH, Riche B, Voirin N, Bénet T, Porcu C, Iwaz J, Étard JF, Vanhems P, Écochard R. Stronger Impact of COVID-19 in Nursing Homes of a French Region During the Second Pandemic Wave. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2023:S1525-8610(23)00378-X. [PMID: 37156472 PMCID: PMC10121131 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2023.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Quantify the effects of characteristics of nursing homes and their surroundings on the spread of COVID-19 outbreaks and assess the changes in resident protection between the first 2 waves (March 1 to July 31 and August 1 to December 31, 2020). DESIGN An observational study was carried out on data on COVID-19 outbreaks extracted from a database that monitored the spread of the virus in nursing homes. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS The study concerned all 937 nursing homes with >10 beds in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, France. METHODS The rate of nursing homes with at least 1 outbreak and the cumulative number of deaths were modeled for each wave. RESULTS During the second (vs the first wave), the proportion of nursing homes that reported at least 1 outbreak was higher (70% vs 56%) and the cumulative number of deaths more than twofold (3348 vs 1590). The outbreak rate was significantly lower in public hospital-associated nursing homes than in private for-profit ones. During the second wave, it was lower in public and private not-for-profit nursing homes than in private for-profit ones. During the first wave, the probability of outbreak and the mean number of deaths increased with the number of beds (P < .001). During the second wave, the probability of outbreak remained stable in >80-bed institutions and, under proportionality assumption, the mean number of deaths was less than expected in >100-bed institutions. The outbreak rate and the cumulative number of deaths increased significantly with the increase in the incidence of hospitalization for COVID-19 in the surrounding populations. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The outbreak in the nursing homes was stronger during the second than the first wave despite better preparedness and higher availabilities of tests and protective equipment. Solutions for insufficient staffing, inadequate rooming, and suboptimal functioning should be found before future epidemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muriel Rabilloud
- Université de Lyon, Lyon, France; Université Lyon 1, Lyon, France; Équipe Biostatistique-Santé, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Évolutive, CNRS UMR 5558, Villeurbanne, France; Service de Biostatistique-Bioinformatique, Pôle Santé Publique, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.
| | - Mad-Hélénie Elsensohn
- Université de Lyon, Lyon, France; Université Lyon 1, Lyon, France; Équipe Biostatistique-Santé, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Évolutive, CNRS UMR 5558, Villeurbanne, France; Service de Biostatistique-Bioinformatique, Pôle Santé Publique, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Benjamin Riche
- Université de Lyon, Lyon, France; Université Lyon 1, Lyon, France; Équipe Biostatistique-Santé, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Évolutive, CNRS UMR 5558, Villeurbanne, France; Service de Biostatistique-Bioinformatique, Pôle Santé Publique, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Nicolas Voirin
- Epidemiology and Modelling in Infectious Diseases (EPIMOD), Dompierre-sur-Veyle, France
| | - Thomas Bénet
- Santé Publique France, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Regional Office, Lyon, France
| | - Catherine Porcu
- Service de Biostatistique-Bioinformatique, Pôle Santé Publique, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Jean Iwaz
- Université de Lyon, Lyon, France; Université Lyon 1, Lyon, France; Équipe Biostatistique-Santé, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Évolutive, CNRS UMR 5558, Villeurbanne, France; Service de Biostatistique-Bioinformatique, Pôle Santé Publique, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Jean-François Étard
- TransVIHMI (Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, IRD, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, INSERM, Université de Montpellier), Montpellier, France; EpiGreen, Paris, France
| | - Philippe Vanhems
- Service d'Hygiène Hospitalière, Épidémiologie, Infectiovigilance et Prévention, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France; CIRI - Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon1, Inserm, U1111, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - René Écochard
- Université de Lyon, Lyon, France; Université Lyon 1, Lyon, France; Équipe Biostatistique-Santé, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Évolutive, CNRS UMR 5558, Villeurbanne, France; Service de Biostatistique-Bioinformatique, Pôle Santé Publique, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
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Amanzio M, Cipriani GE, Bartoli M, Canessa N, Borghesi F, Chirico A, Cipresso P. The neuropsychology of healthy aging: the positive context of the University of the Third Age during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6355. [PMID: 37076567 PMCID: PMC10115807 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33513-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Older adults have been reported to have increased susceptibility to the adverse effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection, such as fatal outcomes, cognitive decline, and changes in physical and/or mental health. However, few studies have examined neuropsychological changes by comparing measurements before and during the pandemic in healthy older people. In addition, no longitudinal studies have examined whether older adults may have responded positively to the pandemic. We examined these issues through a 2-year neuropsychological study before and during the pandemic period. Results showed that scores before and during the pandemic were the same in memory and attention, whereas global cognitive, executive, and language functions improved. Participants also showed no longitudinal changes in depression, hypomania, and disinhibition, while apathy and, to a lesser extent, anxiety increased significantly. To examine possible signs of pandemic-related emotional (dys)regulation, subjects were shown images at follow-up that recalled the most dramatic lockdown phase while heart rate variability was recorded. Higher apathy was predicted by poorer global cognitive performance, increased anxiety, and emotional dysregulation as measured by a higher ratio of low-to-high frequency heart rate variability. Thus, preserved global cognition appears to play a protective role against the effects of pandemic-related anxiety and emotional dysregulation on apathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Amanzio
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, 10024, Turin, Italy.
| | | | - Massimo Bartoli
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, 10024, Turin, Italy
| | - Nicola Canessa
- ICoN Center, Scuola Universitaria Superiore IUSS, 27100, Pavia, Italy
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory of Pavia Institute, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Alice Chirico
- Department of Psychology, Research Center in Communication Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123, Milan, Italy
| | - Pietro Cipresso
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, 10024, Turin, Italy
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, 20145, Milan, Italy
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Andersen MP, Mills EHA, Meddis A, Sørensen KK, Butt JH, Køber L, Poulsen HE, Phelps M, Gislason G, Christensen HC, Schou M, Fosbøl EL, Gerds TA, Kragholm K, Torp-Pedersen C. All-cause mortality among Danish nursing home residents before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a nationwide cohort study. Eur J Epidemiol 2023; 38:523-531. [PMID: 37012504 PMCID: PMC10069726 DOI: 10.1007/s10654-023-00994-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
A substantial part of mortality during the COVID-19-pandemic occurred among nursing home residents which caused alarm in many countries. We investigate nursing home mortality in relation to the expected mortality prior to the pandemic. This nationwide register-based study included all 135,501 Danish nursing home residents between 2015 until October 6, 2021. All-cause mortality rates were calculated using a standardization method on sex and age distribution of 2020. Survival probability and lifetime lost for 180 days was calculated using Kaplan Meier estimates. Of 3,587 COVID-19 related deaths, 1137 (32%) occurred among nursing home residents. The yearly all-cause mortality rates per 100,000 person-years in 2015, 2016, and 2017 were 35,301 (95% CI: 34,671-35,943), 34,801 (95% CI: 34,180-35,432), and 35,708 (95% CI: 35,085-36,343), respectively. Slightly elevated mortality rates per 100,000 person-years were seen in 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021 of 38,268 (95% CI: 37,620-38,929), 36,956 (95% CI: 36,323-37,600), 37,475 (95% CI: 36,838-38,122), and 38,536 (95% CI: 37,798-39,287), respectively. For SARS-CoV-2-infected nursing home residents, lifetime lost difference was 42 days (95% CI: 38-46) in 2020 versus non-infected in 2018. Among vaccinated in 2021, lifetime lost difference was 25 days (95% CI: 18-32) for SARS-CoV-2-infected versus non-infected. Even though a high proportion of COVID-19 fatalities took place in nursing homes and SARS-CoV-2-infection increased the risk of individual death, the annual mortality was only slightly elevated. For future epidemics or pandemics reporting numbers of fatal cases in relation to expected mortality is critical.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alessandra Meddis
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kathrine Kold Sørensen
- Department of Cardiology, Nordsjællands Hospital, Dyrehavevej 29, 3400, Hillerød, Denmark
| | | | - Lars Køber
- Department of Cardiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henrik Enghusen Poulsen
- Department of Cardiology, Nordsjællands Hospital, Dyrehavevej 29, 3400, Hillerød, Denmark
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital at Bispebjerg Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Gunnar Gislason
- The Danish Heart Foundation, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Cardiology, Herlev-Gentofte Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Morten Schou
- Department of Cardiology, Herlev-Gentofte Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Emil L Fosbøl
- Department of Cardiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Alexander Gerds
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- The Danish Heart Foundation, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kristian Kragholm
- Department of Cardiology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Unit of Clinical Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Christian Torp-Pedersen
- Department of Cardiology, Nordsjællands Hospital, Dyrehavevej 29, 3400, Hillerød, Denmark
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Dam D, McGill E, Bellos A, Coulby C, Edwin J, McCormick R, Patterson K. COVID-19 outbreak trends in Canada, 2021. CANADA COMMUNICABLE DISEASE REPORT = RELEVE DES MALADIES TRANSMISSIBLES AU CANADA 2023; 49:133-144. [PMID: 38385104 PMCID: PMC10881080 DOI: 10.14745/ccdr.v49i04a06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Background In January 2021, the Public Health Agency of Canada launched an outbreak surveillance system, the Canadian COVID-19 Outbreak Surveillance System (CCOSS), with the goal of monitoring incidence and severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreaks across various community settings and complementing case surveillance. Methods Seven provinces were included in this report; these provinces submitted weekly cumulative COVID-19 outbreak line lists to CCOSS in 2021. Data includes administrative variables (e.g. date outbreak declared, date outbreak declared over, outbreak identifier), 24 outbreak settings, and number of confirmed cases and outcomes (hospitalization, death). Descriptive analyses for COVID-19 outbreaks across Canada from January 3, 2021, to January 1, 2022, were performed examining trends over time, severity, and outbreak size. Results Incidence of outbreaks followed similar trends to case incidence. Outbreaks were most common in school and childcare settings (39%) and industrial/agricultural settings (21%). Outbreak size ranged from 2 to 639 cases per outbreak; the median size was four cases per outbreak. Correctional facilities had the largest median outbreak size with 18 cases per outbreak, followed by long-term care facilities with 10 cases per outbreak. During periods of high case incidence, outbreaks may be under-ascertained due to limited public health capacity, or reporting may be biased towards high-risk settings prioritized for testing. Outbreaks reported to CCOSS were dominated by jurisdictions with the largest populations. Conclusion The trends illustrate that COVID-19 outbreaks in 2021 were reported most frequently in community settings such as schools; however, the largest outbreaks occurred in congregate living settings. The information gathered from outbreak surveillance complemented case incidence trends and furthered understanding of COVID-19 in Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Demy Dam
- Centre for Immunization and Respiratory Infectious Diseases, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, ON
| | - Erin McGill
- Centre for Immunization and Respiratory Infectious Diseases, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, ON
| | - Anna Bellos
- Centre for Immunization and Respiratory Infectious Diseases, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, ON
| | - Cameron Coulby
- Centre for Immunization and Respiratory Infectious Diseases, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, ON
| | - Jonathan Edwin
- Centre for Immunization and Respiratory Infectious Diseases, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, ON
| | - Rachel McCormick
- Centre for Immunization and Respiratory Infectious Diseases, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, ON
| | - Kaitlin Patterson
- Centre for Immunization and Respiratory Infectious Diseases, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, ON
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Hodge E, Oversby S, Chor J. Why are some outbreaks worse than others? COVID-19 outbreak management strategies from a PHU perspective. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:597. [PMID: 36997870 PMCID: PMC10060923 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15498-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND From a Public Health Unit (PHU) perspective, this review aimed to examine factors associated with adverse outbreak outcomes, to identify evidence based focal strategies of managing COVID-19 outbreaks in aged care settings. METHODS A retrospective review of PHU documentation examined all 55 COVID-19 outbreaks in Wide Bay RACFs across the first 3 COVID-19 waves in Queensland, through thematic and statistical analysis. . RESULTS Thematic analysis using the framework approach identified 5 themes associated with outcomes of COVID-19 outbreaks in RACFs. These were analysed for statistical significance against outbreak outcomes including duration, attack rate and case fatality rate. There was a significant relationship between memory support unit (MSU) involvement and adverse outbreak outcomes. Attack rate was significantly associated with communication frequency, symptom monitoring and case detection approach, staff shortages and cohorting. Staff shortages were also significantly associated with a prolonged outbreak duration. There was no statistically significant relationship between outbreak outcomes and resource availability or infection control strategy. . CONCLUSIONS This emphasises the importance of frequent communication between PHUs and RACFs during active outbreaks, as well as the need for regular symptom monitoring and prompt case detection, to minimise viral transmission. Staff shortages and cohorting are also crucial factors to be addressed during outbreak management. IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH This review adds to the evidence basis of COVID-19 outbreak management strategies to improve PHU advice to RACFs, to mitigate viral transmission and ultimately reduce the burden of disease associated with COVID-19 and other communicable diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Hodge
- Wide Bay Public Health Unit (WBPHU), Queensland Health, Hervey Bay, Australia.
| | - Shannen Oversby
- Wide Bay Public Health Unit (WBPHU), Queensland Health, Hervey Bay, Australia
| | - Josette Chor
- Wide Bay Public Health Unit (WBPHU), Queensland Health, Hervey Bay, Australia
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Van Dusen RA, Abernethy K, Chaudhary N, Paudyal V, Kurmi O. Association of the COVID-19 pandemic on stroke admissions and treatment globally: a systematic review. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e062734. [PMID: 36931673 PMCID: PMC10030289 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-062734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted insufficiencies and gaps within healthcare systems globally. In most countries, including high-income countries, healthcare facilities were over-run and occupied with too few resources beyond capacity. We carried out a systematic review with a primary aim to identify the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the presentation and treatment of stroke globally in populations≥65 years of age. DESIGN A systematic review was completed. In total, 38 papers were included following full-text screening. DATA SOURCES PubMed, MEDLINE and Embase. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Eligible studies included observational and real-world evidence publications with a population who have experienced stroke treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Exclusion criteria included studies comparing the effect of the COVID-19 infection on stroke treatment and outcomes. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Primary outcome measures extracted were the number of admissions, treatment times and patient outcome. Secondary outcomes were severity on admission, population risk factors and destination on discharge. No meta-analysis was performed. RESULTS This review demonstrated that 84% of studies reported decreased admissions rates during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, among those admitted, on average, had higher severity of stroke. Additionally, in-hospital stroke treatment pathways were affected by the implementation of COVID-19 protocols, which resulted in increased treatment times in 60% of studies and increased in-hospital mortality in 82% of studies by 100% on average. The prevalence of stroke subtype (ischaemic or haemorrhagic) and primary treatment methods (thrombectomy or thrombolysis) did not vary due to the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSIONS During the COVID-19 pandemic, many populations hesitated to seek medical attention, decreasing hospital admissions for less severe strokes and increasing hospitalisation of more severe cases and mortality. The effect of the pandemic on society and healthcare systems needs to be addressed to improve stroke treatment pathways and prepare for potential future epidemics. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021248564.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kiera Abernethy
- Physical and environmenal science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Vibhu Paudyal
- School of Pharmacy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Om Kurmi
- Global Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty Centre for Intelligent Healthcare, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
- Division of Respirology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Nexus Institute of Research and Innovation, Lalitpur, Nepal
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Hathaway E, Kaehr E, Rattray NA, Unroe K. Long-Term Care Administrator Perspectives on an Essential Family Caregiver Policy. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2023:S1525-8610(23)00133-0. [PMID: 36940780 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2023.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Characterize the implementation, benefits, and challenges of an Essential Family Caregiver (EFC) program, a novel policy implemented in long-term care (LTC) settings during the COVID-19 pandemic in Indiana. Characterize LTC administrator perspectives on family/caregiver involvement in the LTC setting. DESIGN Semi-structured qualitative interviews. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Administrators from 4 Indiana LTC facilities. METHODS In this qualitative study, a convenience sample of 4 LTC administrators was recruited. Each participant completed 1 interview during January to May 2021. Following transcription, a thematic analysis approach with 2 cycles of qualitative coding identified relevant themes. RESULTS Four LTC administrators participated, representing both urban and rural nonprofit nursing homes. Participants spoke positively of the program despite implementation challenges including perceived infection risk, policy interpretation, and logistical challenges. The psychological impact of isolation for nursing home residents was emphasized as a critical consideration alongside physical health concerns. LTC administrators desired to support resident well-being while maintaining good standing with regulatory agencies. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Based on a limited sample, Indiana's EFC policy was viewed favorably by LTC administrators as a tool to balance resident and family psychosocial needs with infection-related health risks. LTC administrators desired a collaborative approach from regulators as they worked to implement a novel policy. Consistent with participant desire for broader caregiver access to residents, more recent policymaking has reflected growing recognition of the critical role of family members not only as companions but also as care providers, even in a structured care environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Hathaway
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Ellen Kaehr
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Nicholas A Rattray
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Regenstrief Institute, Inc., Indiana University Center for Aging Research, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Kathleen Unroe
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Regenstrief Institute, Inc., Indiana University Center for Aging Research, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
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Proulx JDE, Van de Vondervoort JW, Hamlin JK, Helliwell JF, Aknin LB. Are Real-World Prosociality Programs Associated with Greater Psychological Well-Being in Primary School-Aged Children? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4403. [PMID: 36901411 PMCID: PMC10002419 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Quality education can build a sustainable, happier world, but what experiences support student well-being? Numerous laboratory studies suggest that prosocial behavior predicts greater psychological well-being. However, relatively little work has examined whether real-world prosociality programs are associated with greater well-being in primary school-aged children (aged 5-12). In Study 1, we surveyed 24/25 students who completed their 6th Grade curriculum in a long-term care home alongside residents called "Elders," which offered numerous opportunities for planned and spontaneous helping. We found that the meaning that students derived from their prosocial interactions with the Elders was strongly associated with greater psychological well-being. In Study 2, we conducted a pre-registered field experiment with 238 primary school-aged children randomly assigned to package essential items for children who experience homelessness and/or poverty who were either demographically similar or dissimilar in age and/or gender to them as part of a classroom outing. Children self-reported their happiness both pre- and post-intervention. While happiness increased from pre- to post-intervention, this change did not differ for children who helped a similar or dissimilar recipient. These studies offer real-world evidence consistent with the possibility that engaging in prosocial classroom activities-over an afternoon or year-is associated with greater psychological well-being in primary school-aged children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason D. E. Proulx
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada
| | | | - J. Kiley Hamlin
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - John F. Helliwell
- Vancouver School of Economics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1L4, Canada
| | - Lara B. Aknin
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada
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Okubo R, Hoshi SL, Kondo M. Cost-effectiveness of professional and mechanical oral care for preventing pneumonia in nursing home residents. J Am Geriatr Soc 2023; 71:756-764. [PMID: 36334034 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.18122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pneumonia is common in nursing home residents and is a leading cause of hospitalization and death. Nursing home residents with cerebrovascular diseases and impaired consciousness are at high risk of aspiration pneumonia. Professional and mechanical oral care by dentists and hygienists in addition to daily oral care by caregivers was shown to be effective in preventing pneumonia in nursing home residents. However, professional and mechanical oral care has not been widely provided in Japan, while daily oral care by caregivers has been widely provided as a basic service in nursing homes. This study aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of providing professional and mechanical oral care for preventing pneumonia in nursing home residents. METHODS Using a decision tree and Markov modeling, we conducted a cost-effectiveness analysis from the payer's perspective (social insurers and patients) in Japan. RESULTS The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for professional and mechanical oral care compared with daily oral care only was calculated as 4,079,313 Japanese yen (¥; 33,994 United States dollars [US$], US$1 = ¥120) per quality-adjusted life year. CONCLUSIONS Using the official value of social willingness to pay for a one-quality-adjusted life year gain in Japan of ¥5 million (US$41,667) as the threshold to judge cost-effectiveness, providing professional and mechanical oral care is cost-effective. Our results suggest professional and mechanical oral care for preventing pneumonia in nursing home residents could be justifiable as efficient use of finite healthcare resources. The results have implications for oral care in nursing homes both in Japan and worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reiko Okubo
- Department of Health Care Policy and Health Economics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, University of Tsukuba Hospital, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
- Department of Nephrology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Shu-Ling Hoshi
- Department of Health Care Policy and Health Economics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Masahide Kondo
- Department of Health Care Policy and Health Economics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
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Kim HJ, Kim J, Jang YS, Park H, Kim JM, Park YJ, Ryu SY, Cho JH, Park SY, Lee SE. Early countermeasures to COVID-19 at long-term care facilities in Gwangju Metropolitan City, Republic of Korea. Osong Public Health Res Perspect 2023; 14:59-65. [PMID: 36944346 DOI: 10.24171/j.phrp.2022.0293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has continued since its first detection in the Republic of Korea on January 20, 2020. This study describes the early countermeasures used to minimize the risk of COVID-19 outbreaks during cohort quarantine and compares the epidemiological characteristics of 2 outbreaks in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) in Gwangju Metropolitan City in summer 2020. METHODS An epidemiological investigation was conducted via direct visits. We investigated epidemiological characteristics, including incidence, morbidity, and mortality rates, for all residents and staff members. Demographic characteristics were analyzed using a statistical program. Additionally, the method of managing infection in LTCFs is described. RESULTS Residents and caregivers had high incidence rates in LTCF-A and LTCF-B, respectively. LTCF-B had a longer quarantine period than LTCF-A. The attack rate was 20.02% in LTCF-A and 27.9% in LTCF-B. The mortality rate was 2.3% (1/43) in LTCF-B, the only facility in which a COVID-19 death occurred. CONCLUSIONS Extensive management requires contact minimization, which involves testing all contacts to mitigate further transmission in the early stages of LTCF outbreaks. The findings of this study can help inform and prepare public health authorities for COVID-19 outbreaks, particularly for early control in vulnerable facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Jin Kim
- COVID-19 National Emergency Response, Central Disease Control Headquarters, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, Cheongju, Korea
| | - Jieun Kim
- COVID-19 National Emergency Response, Central Disease Control Headquarters, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, Cheongju, Korea
| | - Yoon Suk Jang
- COVID-19 National Emergency Response, Central Disease Control Headquarters, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, Cheongju, Korea
| | - Hanul Park
- COVID-19 National Emergency Response, Central Disease Control Headquarters, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, Cheongju, Korea
| | - Jong Mu Kim
- COVID-19 National Emergency Response, Central Disease Control Headquarters, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, Cheongju, Korea
| | - Young Joon Park
- COVID-19 National Emergency Response, Central Disease Control Headquarters, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, Cheongju, Korea
| | - So-Yeon Ryu
- Gwangju Center for Infectious Disease Control and Prevention, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Jun Hwi Cho
- Gwangju Center for Infectious Disease Control and Prevention, Gwangju, Korea
| | - So Yeong Park
- Gwangju Center for Infectious Disease Control and Prevention, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Sang-Eun Lee
- COVID-19 National Emergency Response, Central Disease Control Headquarters, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, Cheongju, Korea
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Ziembicka DM, Lukaszuk B, Marcinowicz L. Evaluation of the functioning of long-term at-home nursing care in Poland from the perspective of care providers: Mixed methods study. J Clin Nurs 2023; 32:485-493. [PMID: 35225374 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.16255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES This study aimed to analyse and evaluate the functioning of long-term at-home nursing care (LTHNC) based on the opinions of its service providers. BACKGROUND Long-term at-home nursing care is a form of care for patients who do not need hospital treatment but need systematic nursing care because of their health problems. LTHNC in Poland involves guaranteed care services financed from universal health insurance contributions pursuant to contracts with the National Health Fund (NHF); the program has existed since 2004. DESIGN A sequential-explanatory mixed-method design was used. The study was carried out using both quantitative and qualitative research methods. METHODS A questionnaire was distributed amongst 1119 care providers (the response rate was 38.2%). The qualitative research comprised semi-structured interviews with ten care providers, namely three nurses managing LTHNC facilities and seven nurses directly providing services as part of LTHNC. The STROBE checklist was used in reporting this study. RESULTS We found that the main reasons for contracting LTHNC services were the increasing demand for this form of care, financial motives and an opportunity to introduce new organisational solutions. Our study shows that LTHNC is beneficial not only for the patients, but also for the nurses who provide the care. On the one hand, LTHNC provides positive results for patients and their caregivers (family members), and on the other hand, it affords a sense of satisfaction to the nurses and contributes to the development of their professional independence. CONCLUSIONS According to care providers, improving accessibility through increasing the number of contracted services as well as raising the pay for 1 day of care per patient may improve the functioning of LTHNC. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE The results of our study are a source of information for those who organise health care and administer resources on how to improve the functioning of LTHNC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bartlomiej Lukaszuk
- Department of Physiology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Ludmila Marcinowicz
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Maternity Care, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
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