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Do opportunities exist to improve the use of the WHO Surgical Safety Checklist in cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery: Perspectives of patients and staff in a multimethod study in New Zealand
Get PDFOBJECTIVES: The WHO Surgical Safety Checklist (SSC) can improve patient outcomes through checks and enhancing the safety climate, provided the team engage. Patients are central to that team and may be awake during part or all of many procedures. Their greater inclusion in the SSC process could enhance its checking objectives by using patient knowledge of details relevant to proposed procedures, and its objective of improving culture by emphasising patient identity, seeing patients as individuals rather than items on a production line. We aimed to evaluate SSC use, including clinicians' and patients' perspectives, in cardiothoracic operating rooms (CTORs) and cardiac catheterisation laboratories (CCLs), and to identify opportunities to refine its use in these spaces.DESIGN: We undertook a multimethod study based on positivism and interpretivism, with evaluation of SSC administration and interviews. We evaluated SSC administration during 20 Sign Ins, 20 Time Outs and 20 Sign Outs in CTORs and 20 Time Outs in CCLs (11 coronary angiography and 9 electrophysiology cases) using the WHO Behaviourally Anchored Rating Scale (WHOBARS, 1-7, where higher scores indicate better practice). We additionally interviewed 10 clinicians and 17 patients about their experiences and perceptions of safety and SSC use. We undertook thematic analysis of interview data.SETTING: CTORs and CCLs in an Auckland public hospital.PARTICIPANTS: We observed 171 clinicians during 20 cases. We interviewed 10 clinicians (Pakeha/New Zealand/European n=6; male n=5; doctor n=5). We interviewed 17 patients (Pakeha/New Zealand/European n=12; male n=10; age range 45-81 years).RESULTS: In CTORs, the SSC was used in full: median (IQR) WHOBARS score was 5.9 (5.2, 6.5). In CCLs, its use differed between electrophysiology and angiography CCLs: median (IQR) WHOBARS score was 4.50 (3.2, 5.6). In both CTORs and CCLs, high levels of carefulness and respect between team members were observed. Clinicians described the SSC as valuable and identified context-related reasons for variations in its use. Patients wanted to feel cared for and respected (including culturally). The SSC contributed positively to this. Clinicians expressed reservations about increasing patients' involvement with the SSC. However, patients' comments supported their increased engagement in the SSC process (including establishing their preferred names).CONCLUSIONS: The SSC is used at Auckland City Hospital with some variation between services and with high levels of carefulness and respect. The SSC increased patients' sense of being cared for. With modification (eg, by verifying their preferred name during the Sign In phase), the SSC could enhance patients' perception of being seen as individuals, their cultural safety and the safety climate in operating and procedure rooms, and hence potentially improve patient outcomes. Our findings reinforce the value of regular evaluation and context-relevant modification of SSC for its effective use.</p
Association between Bitter Taste Sensitivity and Weight Status in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Get PDFContext:Bitter taste sensitivity plays a role in dietary preferences and food intake, potentially affecting weight status. Despite previous studies performed to investigate this role, the relationship between bitter taste sensitivity and anthropometric measures remains inconclusive.Objective:In this review we sought to systematically evaluate the association between sensitivity to bitter taste and weight status in adults through a comprehensive meta-analysis and meta-regression.Data Sources:We conducted a systematic search of the EMBASE, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, and PsycInfo databases for reported studies on this topic published up to March 2024. Included studies involved healthy adults and were published in English.Data Extraction:Two reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts, and full texts. Data on study characteristics, methods of assessing taste sensitivity, and anthropometric outcomes were extracted. Quality assessment was performed using the American Dietetic Association Quality Criteria Checklist.Data Analysis:Meta-analysis of 27 studies (80 effect estimates) revealed no significant association between bitter taste sensitivity and overall weight status (Cohen’s dz, −0.02; 95% CI, −0.10 to 0.05, P = .58). Subgroup analyses also showed no significant differences between nontasters, medium tasters, and supertasters. Meta-regression indicated that the waist–hip ratio was a significant moderator (P = .004). Heterogeneity was high (I2 = 91.5%), and publication bias was minimal.Conclusions:Bitter taste sensitivity does not significantly influence overall weight status but may affect body fat distribution. Methodological variability and population differences highlight the need for standardized protocols in future research. These findings contribute to understanding taste sensitivity in obesity prevention and dietary behavior strategies
Enhancing communication in multicultural construction teams – a systematic review of the challenges and solutions of effective communication in construction projects
No full textPurposeConstruction projects typically involve multicultural team members, driving economic growth in emerging and developed nations. Despite numerous studies aimed at enhancing communication efficacy in multicultural teams, there is currently a lack of comprehensive studies to identify standard criteria and rules for effective communication within such teams in construction projects. This study aims to analyse the communication challenges faced by multicultural teams in the construction industry, the impact of cultural diversity on the effectiveness of intra-team communication and common solutions used to enhance team communication efficiency, as well as establish guidelines promoting effective communication in multicultural settings.Design/methodology/approachA systematic literature review follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines to identify recurring patterns in communication challenges and their solutions across diverse teams.FindingsAfter analysing 27 articles discussing challenges in effective communication within the construction industry and their corresponding solutions, three main challenges alongside 24 subfactors impeding effective communication in construction projects are revealed. Crucially, the following four steps can enhance the effectiveness of multicultural team communication: identifying stakeholders, establishing a communication plan, clarifying information distribution methods and managing stakeholders’ expectations.Originality/valueThis study goes beyond merely identifying the common communication challenges multicultural teams face in construction projects. It systematically thematises these barriers and links them with solutions, providing a comprehensive schema for managing communication challenges in multicultural settings. Unlike previous studies that offer fragmented insights, this research presents an integrated approach, highlighting new interdependencies between factors and offering actionable guidelines that have not been previously discussed in the literature
From diversity to social value: insights from infrastructure project professionals
Get PDFPurposeThis research investigates how project professionals perceive the role of team diversity in enabling social value creation within infrastructure projects.Design/methodology/approachThis exploratory qualitative study draws on 27 semi-structured interviews with infrastructure project professionals experienced in project delivery.FindingsThe findings indicate that social value in infrastructure projects extends beyond physical infrastructure itself to include upskilling, training and local job creation. Leveraging project team diversity is linked to strengthening social value through innovation, creativity and better decision-making. Furthermore, diverse teams that include local community members enrich social value by ensuring cultural sensitivity and alignment with local needs, making community-connected project teams crucial for creating sustainable and meaningful social value.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings are based on Australian infrastructure projects, which limits generalizability.Practical implicationsProject-based organizations can embrace diversity in project teams to deliver social value by including members from diverse cultural, professional and socioeconomic backgrounds. This approach ensures better alignment with local needs through cultural sensitivity and community representation, enhancing stakeholder engagement and promoting innovation.Social implicationsThe findings support for inclusive project teams to contribute to broader societal goals. By practicing team diversity, project-based organizations can deliver infrastructure projects that are socially impactful, fostering trust, collaboration and stronger community ties.Originality/valueDrawing on social capital theory, this research explores project professionals’ interpretation of social value and examines how social value is delivered to communities by embracing project team diversity, thus extending limited research in this area
The Protective Effects of Silk Sericin Against Retinal Oxidative Stress: In Vitro and In Vivo Assays with a Fluorometric Nitroxide Molecular Probe
Get PDFSericin is a major polypeptidic constituent of the silk in the cocoons produced by the Bombyx mori silkworm. Certain fractions isolated from sericin exhibited antioxidant properties in a variety of reported experimental settings. In a previous study, we found that only the non-protein fraction, extracted from crude sericin, displayed antioxidative activity in cultures of murine retinal photoreceptor cells (661W), a cell line that is highly sensitive to oxidative stress associated with diseases of the retina. In the same assay, the protein fraction (purified sericin) did not show any such activity. To check these findings, in the present study, two additional different assays were employed: an in vitro assay based on the dose-dependent mitigating effects exerted by each sericin fraction on the activity of antimycin A in cultures of 661W cells and an in vivo assay based on an animal (rat) model of retinal ischemia/reperfusion injury. In both assays, nitroxide was appended as a fluorometric molecular probe, and fluorescent intensity was monitored by either flow cytometry (in vitro) or the Micron IV retinal imaging system (in vivo). The in vitro assay indicated unequivocally antioxidative capacity for the non-protein fraction and a lack of it for the purified sericin. The in vivo assay indicated that each fraction was able to act as an antioxidant. We hypothesized that the ability of purified sericin to display antioxidative activity in vivo, but not in vitro, was the result of the metabolic degradation of sericin, a process that delivered serine, an amino acid with known antioxidant properties. However, this hypothesis needs experimental confirmation
Qualitative factors impacting patients and clinicians regarding intravitreal injections for retinal disorders: A scoping review
Get PDFBackground: Intravitreal injections are among the most frequently performed eye procedures worldwide. They are vital in managing vision-related retinal conditions such as neovascular age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema and retinal vein occlusion. This review scopes qualitative research concerning people’s beliefs, perspectives, experiences and behaviors towards intravitreal injections.Methods: Academic databases (PubMed, Embase, CINAHL and Web of Science) were searched for studies focused on qualitative research of intravitreal injections in adult patients, published between January 2000 and May 2024. We extracted data regarding publication and participants’ characteristics, main study objectives, and methodological approaches.Results: Of the 795 identified citations, 28 met the inclusion criteria. Most studies reported on patients’ emotional experiences of undergoing intravitreal injections, with the fear of vision loss compounded with ongoing injections prompting significant anxiety and uncertainty for patients. Other studies also reported on the physical component as the invasiveness of the procedure caused pain and discomfort, which varied with the clinician’s delivery of the injection. One study reported on clinician experiences of performing intravitreal injections, stating that the treatment decisions are dependent on patient-related factors such as their adherence to regular injections. Overall, qualitative research in ophthalmology is increasing, with most studies employing semi-structured interviews with thematic analysis.Conclusion: Qualitative research offers valuable insights into both patient and clinician experiences of intravitreal injections, which can shape person-centered and sustainable models of intravitreal treatment. Understanding qualitative factors such as personal experiences and barriers to treatment can refine the delivery of intravitreal injections and ultimately improve patient adherence
Editorial September 2025
Get PDFIn this edition of the Australian and New Zealand Continence Journal we present the abstracts from the 33rd National Conference on Incontinence (NCOI). This was a fantastic week, held in Hobart, Tasmania. It was a delight to see so many research presentations related to continence and it is clear that Australian and New Zealand researchers are leading the way across many different areas. I encourage all abstract authors who are published within this edition to consider submitting their research to the Australian and New Zealand Continence Journal (ANZCJ) upon completion. Our model remains entirely Diamond Open Access, with no cost to authors or readers, and our articles are listed across an increasing variety of online databases
Older adults' digital literacy and perspectives on smartphone use for home assessment
Get PDFIntroduction: The feasibility of using smartphones for virtual occupational therapy home assessments has been previously established, indicating potential application for community-dwelling older adults. However, there remain uncertainties about how older adults perceive and are able to engage with this technology.Objective: This study aims to (a) explore how older adults perceive the potential use of smartphones in home assessments, (b) assess the digital literacy of older adults in using smartphones for home assessments, and (c) examine potential relationships between older adults' digital literacy and their perspectives on the use of smartphones for home assessments.Method: Following ethics approval, a structured procedure was developed to collect data through semi-structured interviews and digital assessments. Participants were recruited through a community-based healthy ageing program and interviewed. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using indicative thematic analysis. The digital assessments were quantitatively scored and analysed into descriptive statistics.Result: As of August 2024, data have been collected from five participants, with recruitment ongoing to achieve data saturation, anticipated at 8–10 participants. Preliminary data analysis identifies favourable attitudes towards the use of home assessment via smartphone. This study is expected to be completed by December 2024, with final results available thereafter.Conclusion: This study aims to provide insights into older adults' acceptance and ability to adopt virtual occupational therapy home assessment via smartphone, with potential implications for informing the development of more accessible and user-friendly telehealth services for older adults.<br/
Dog ownership, dog walking, and physical function in mid-older adults: findings from the HABITAT cohort study
No full textObjectives:To examine the longitudinal effects of dog ownership and dog walking on self-reported and objective measures of physical function in mid- to older-aged adults.Design:Observational cohort study.Methods:A sub-sample of participants in ‘How Areas in Brisbane Influence healTh and AcTivity’ (HABITAT) self-reported dog ownership, dog walking, and overall physical function, and completed objective balance, grip strength, and Function Fitness Test assessments twice over two years of follow-up. Dog walkers and non-dog walkers were compared with non-dog owners. Analyses were conducted separately for males (n = 299) and females (n = 445) using linear and generalised linear mixed effects models.Results:There were few differences in physical function between groups at the first assessment nor differences in changes over time. The only exceptions were, at the first assessment, female non-dog walkers completed fewer sit-to-stands, had lower odds of completing the one leg balance test, and had lower physical function scores than female non-dog owners. Female dog walkers also had lower physical function scores at the first assessment than female non-dog owners. Female non-dog walkers' likelihood of completing the one leg balance test increased over time in contrast to no change among non-dog owners, and at the second assessment there were no differences between these groups.Conclusions:Dog ownership and dog walking did not benefit physical function in this sample. Participants had good physical function and the few between-group differences are unlikely to impact their capacity to perform everyday activities. Future research should examine effects over longer time periods and in older participants
Patient Reported Experience Measures (PREMs) in pediatrics: a scoping review
No full textIntroduction: The WFOT is concerned with quality performance within the profession, prompting the development of the Quality Evaluation Strategy Tool [QUEST], with patient experience as an integral component. Paediatric services globally are increasingly acknowledging the importance of delivering patient-centred care for improvement in all quality dimensions. Patient Reported Experience Measures [PREMs] capture experiences with care received and should recognize the subjective nature of experience from both child and carer perspectives. Currently no PREMs have been identified for global use within pediatric occupational therapy. Objective: To identify different PREMs used with pediatric patients, analyse characteristics, and synthesize findings relevant to occupational therapy, supporting the use of QUEST. Methods: A systematic search of Medline, Embase, Cochrane, CINAHL, and PsychInfo was conducted, from inception to June 2024, following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Articles were screened by two independent reviewers. Extracted data will be synthesized inductively, tabulating PREMs by geography, type, domains, and characteristics. Results: The initial search identified 19, 907 articles after removing duplicates. To date 11844 have been screened, with 218 awaiting full-text review. Final results are expected in December 2024. Conclusions: Preliminary results identified a broad range of existing PREMs across diverse practice settings and geographic locations. Despite occupational therapy’s characteristic priority for holistic and patient-centred care, limited field specific literature was identified. The significant heterogeneity in terminology complicated study selection and highlighted a need to streamline definitive terminology to ensure accuracy in future research and consistency in practice. Findings are relevant to inform care improvement and aid selection and operational use of PREMs