OBJECTIVES: Obtaining informed consent from research participants is an ethical and legal obligation for medical researchers in clinical studies. Electronic informed consent (eIC) is increasingly being adopted in clinical research worldwide. However, there is limited data on Chinese medical researchers' knowledge and attitudes toward eIC. This study aims to investigate their knowledge, attitudes, and influencing factors regarding eIC use in clinical research. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted using stratified random sampling. From June to August 2022, medical researchers from 8 tertiary hospitals were surveyed via an online platform (Wenjuanxing). A self-developed eIC knowledge questionnaire and attitude scale were used to assess participants' understanding and perceptions of eIC. Univariate analysis was employed to explore factors influencing attitude scores and the correlation between knowledge and attitudes. A generalized linear model was used to analyze associations between demographic characteristics and attitude scores, including the frequency of difficulties in using smartphones or computers, preferred device for using eIC, and their interaction effects. Stratified analysis was further performed for significant interactions. RESULTS: A total of 399 valid questionnaires were collected. The mean accuracy rate on the eIC knowledge questionnaire was (94.88±15.50)%. Of the respondents, 74.9% had heard of eIC, and 84.5% preferred using mobile devices over computers to access eIC. The median attitude score was 3.41 (3.18, 3.76), indicating generally positive attitudes. Specifically, 81.7% found eIC more convenient than paper-based consent, 79.7% considered it more efficient, and 51.1% believed it could fully replace paper forms. However, 60.7% expressed concerns about data security and privacy, and 89.7% believed that relevant laws and regulations need improvement. Spearman correlation analysis showed a weak positive correlation between knowledge and attitude scores (r=0.171, P=0.001). Univariate analysis indicated that the frequency of difficulty using devices and preferred device for eIC were significantly associated with attitude scores (P<0.05). After adjusting for confounding factors, the generalized linear model demonstrated that participants who occasionally experienced had difficulty using devices had significantly lower attitude scores compared to those who never had difficulty (β=-0.040, 95% CI -0.071 to -0.009, P=0.012). Those who preferred using PCs had significantly lower attitude scores than those who preferred mobile devices (β=-0.066, 95% CI -0.108 to -0.023, P=0.002). Interaction analysis showed a significant interaction analysis showed a significant interaction between age and preferred device (P=0.011), particularly among participants aged ≥45-year (P<0.001). No other interactions were found to be significant (all P>0.05). CONCLUSIONS Medical researchers in China generally have a high level of knowledge and positive attitudes toward eIC, though concerns remain regarding data security and privacy. Future promotion of eIC in Chinese clinical research should be grounded in ethical considerations and address the specific needs of older users and mobile device users, while also enhancing researchers' competencies in using digital tools and eIC systems.
Humans ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Informed Consent ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Female ; Male ; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; Adult ; Biomedical Research ; Research Personnel/psychology* ; Middle Aged ; China

Objective To understand the willingness of general practitioner(GP) to enhance working competence in community healthcare centers in Shanghai and provide a basis for the competence training of GPs in community healthcare centers. Methods In August 2023,GPs were selected from some community healthcare centers in Shanghai and their willingness to enhance working competence were studied by a questionnaire survey.The survey included 39 secondary indicators in three dimensions:general practice theory,skills,and humanity. Results A total of 1 192 GPs completed the questionnaire,with an effective rate of 100%.The total score of GPs' willingness to enhance their working competence was 258.45±80.93,and the mean score of the three dimensions was 6.63±2.08.The score for the general practice theory was the highest (6.92±1.95),while that for general practice humanity was the lowest (6.44±2.34) among the three dimensions.The score of willingness to enhance working efficiency differed across different age ranges (P<0.001),professional titles (P<0.001),years of work (P<0.001),and educational backgrounds of GPs (P=0.039).Those with the age younger than 30 years old,junior professional titles,less than 5 years of work experience,and a college degree or below had the highest willingness score to enhance their working competence.Among the top three secondary indicators of willingness score in each dimension,the top three methods of working competence enhancement were community general practice and specialized healthcare services combined with outpatient learning,flexible further training,and continuing education courses.Conclusions There is an urgent need for young GPs in community healthcare centers in Shanghai to enhance their working competence.Targeted enhancement plans can be provided to different groups of GPs with different characteristics through community general practice and specialized healthcare services combined with outpatient learning,flexible further training,and continuing education courses,which can further enhance the ability and quality of the GP team.
Humans ; China ; General Practitioners/psychology* ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Community Health Centers ; Clinical Competence ; Female ; Adult ; Male ; Attitude of Health Personnel ; Middle Aged

Objective To investigate the key factors influencing the implementation of long-acting injection-promoting policies and propose effective improving paths.Methods Qualitative interviews were carried out for stakeholders involved in the promotion of long-acting injections,based on the consolidated framework for implementation research.Additionally,countermeasures for identified barriers were proposed based on expert recommendations for implementation changes.Results A total of 46 health administrators,healthcare workers,and patients in Beijing were interviewed.The study identified several barriers in the strength and quality of evidence,adaptability,relative advantage,complexity and cost,patient needs and resources,external collaboration,external policies and incentives,organizational structural characteristics,and self-efficacy.Conclusions From the perspectives and experiences of stakeholders,the promotion of long-acting injections has shown initial success but still faces multiple obstacles.It is recommended that efforts should be made to coordinate and adapt policies,improve and incentivize relative organizations,and continuously strengthen the advocacy and education for individuals.
Humans ; Beijing ; Delayed-Action Preparations ; Health Personnel ; Health Policy ; Injections

BACKGROUND

Human immunodeficiency virus infection and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome are significant public health concerns and social issues. Key players in efforts to stop HIV/AIDS as a public threat are healthcare personnel. Research has shown that negative attitudes of healthcare workers towards HIV can negatively influence their practices and these are associated with their level of knowledge about the disease.

This study aims to investigate the baseline knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare workers towards HIV/AIDS and to determine the association between profession and level of knowledge, attitudes and practices among healthcare workers in a tertiary pediatric government hospital.

This study utilized an analytical cross-sectional research design. Data were collected through a written questionnaire administered to 213 healthcare personnel, who were selected via stratified random sampling from January to April 2024. Knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) scores were evaluated using Bloom’s cut-off points. Scores below 60% were classified as low level of knowledge, negative attitude, and poor practice. Scores from 60-79% were classified as moderate level of knowledge, neutral attitude and fair practice. Lastly, scores between 80-100% were classified as high level of knowledge, positive attitude and good practice. Descriptive and inferential statistics, specifically Fisher’s test were used whenever appropriate.

Among 213 study participants, 140 (65.73%) demonstrated a high level of knowledge towards HIV/AIDS among doctors, nurses, medical technologists, and radiologic technologists. There were 161 (75.59%) who exhibited positive attitude towards HIV/AIDS and worked as pharmacists, physical therapists, and dentists. About 154 (72.30%) reported having fair practices on HIV/AIDS.

The healthcare workers in our study have a high level of knowledge, positive attitude, and fair practices towards HIV/AIDS with significant differences between professions. There is a significant association between professions with the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards HIV. Doctors, nurses, medical technologists, and radiologic technologists have higher level of knowledge on HIV/AIDS. Positive attitude was higher among pharmacists, physical therapists, and dentists. Lastly, good practices were highest among midwives.

INTRODUCTION

This cross-sectional study investigated the relationship between work stress and dysglycemia among healthcare workers engaged in shift work at a level 1 government hospital in Antipolo City, Philippines.

Work stress was assessed using the Effort-Reward Imbalance (ERI) Questionnaire, and dysglycemia was measured through a 75g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).

A total of 126 healthcare workers aged 20–55 years participated Results showed that 65.1% of participants experienced work stress, with nurses reporting the highest prevalence (43.9%). Dysglycemia was present in 33.3% of participants, predominantly in the form of impaired glucose tolerance. Despite the high prevalence of both work stress and obesity (61.9%), no statistically significant associations were found between work stress and dysglycemia (p = .51), gender and work stress (p = .59), occupation and work stress (p = .059), or obesity and dysglycemia (p = .70).

The findings suggest that while work stress is common among healthcare workers, especially nurses, it may not directly predict dysglycemia in relatively young and active populations. However, the long-term metabolic risks associated with chronic occupational stress should not be overlooked. Future longitudinal studies with larger samples are recommended to better assess causality and guide workplace wellness programs.

BACKGROUND

This study explored the indigenous knowledge practiced by the traditional Panday in the care of pregnant Meranaw mothers during intrapartum care and how it is perceived by the midwives and the mothers. In analyzing their perspectives, qualitative method of research known as descriptive exploratory research design was utilized. The study gathered insights from 51 individuals.

Data collection methods included interview and observations through thematic content analysis. Four themes emerged: traditional Panday, practices in intrapartum care, midwives' perceptions of traditional Panday, reasons for home births among mothers, and suggested policies and programs for traditional Panday, and mothers.

Data revealed that most traditional Panday, exhibit satisfactory intrapartum care practices, which closely resemble those used in hospitals, indicating their capability to conduct safe home births. Some traditional Panday, demonstrate remarkable skills, such as identifying fetal position and even turning breech babies into the cephalic position during critical labor stages. The integration of herbal methods and Islamic practices, such as the recitation of Azan to the baby's ear, further distinguishes their approach. Regarding midwives' perspectives, opinions varied, with some viewing traditional Panday, as dependable partners, while others perceive them as threats to maternal safety. However, most midwives advocate for finding solutions and improving access to care rather than viewing traditional Panday, as obstacles.

Mothers' preference for home births is attributed to factors such as comfort, privacy, and financial considerations. Traditional Panday, are valued for their modest fees and cultural sensitivity, as they prioritize the well-being and modesty of women in their care.

Contraceptive Agents ; Health Personnel ; Primary Health Care ; Philippines

INTRODUCTION: Medical errors commonly occur in medical imaging departments. These errors are frequently influenced by patient safety culture. This study aimed to develop a suitable patient safety culture assessment tool for medical imaging departments. METHODS: Staff members of a teaching hospital medical imaging department were invited to complete the generic short version of the Safety Attitude Questionnaire (SAQ). Internal consistency and reliability were evaluated using Cronbach's α. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to examine model fit. A cut-off of 60% was used to define the percentage positive responses (PPR). PPR values were compared between occupational groups. RESULTS: A total of 300 complete responses were received and the response rate was 75.4%. In reliability analysis, the Cronbach's α for the original 32-item SAQ was 0.941. Six subscales did not demonstrate good fit with CFA. A modified five-subscale, 22-item model (SAQ-MI) showed better fit (goodness-to-fit index ≥0.9, comparative fit index ≥ 0.9, Tucker-Lewis index ≥0.9 and root mean square error of approximation ≤0.08). The Cronbach's α for the 22 items was 0.921. The final five subscales were safety and teamwork climate, job satisfaction, stress recognition, perception of management and working condition, with PPR of 62%, 68%, 57%, 61% and 60%, respectively. Statistically significant differences in PPR were observed between radiographers, doctors and others occupational groups. CONCLUSION The modified five-factor, 22-item SAQ-MI is a suitable tool for the evaluation of patient safety culture in a medical imaging department. Differences in patient safety culture exist between occupation groups, which will inform future intervention studies.
Humans ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Patient Safety ; Attitude of Health Personnel ; Diagnostic Imaging ; Reproducibility of Results ; Male ; Female ; Adult ; Job Satisfaction ; Factor Analysis, Statistical ; Middle Aged ; Hospitals, Teaching ; Safety Management ; Organizational Culture ; Medical Errors/prevention & control*

Aviation medicine safeguards flight safety by addressing three critical areas: managing physiological challenges of the aviation environment, preventing in-flight medical incapacitation and ensuring psychological fitness for flight. The field adopts occupational medicine's hierarchy of risk control to mitigate physiological risks in the operating environment, while employing systematic medical screening with tailored standards based on operational requirements to reduce the likelihood of in-flight incapacitation. A comprehensive approach incorporating mental health education, support systems and regular monitoring helps prevent psychological incapacitation. Recent data from the Singapore Changi Aeromedical Centre reveal that ophthalmological, otolaryngological and respiratory conditions are the primary causes of medical disqualification during air force pilot screening, reflecting the unique physiological demands of military aviation. This review emphasises the ongoing challenge of balancing rigorous medical standards with maintaining an adequate pilot recruitment pool, while highlighting the need for evidence-based approaches to aeromedical assessment and certification.
Humans ; Aerospace Medicine/methods* ; Singapore ; Aviation ; Pilots ; Accidents, Aviation/prevention & control* ; Occupational Health ; Safety ; Occupational Medicine ; Military Personnel

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Ensuring the total well-being of healthcare workers (HCWs), including their mental health and psychological well-being, is an essential aspect in the delivery of patient care and the preservation of the health workforce. This study aimed to determine the level of mental well-being and emotional state of HCWs in terms of depression, anxiety, and stress using the DASS-21 scale in a tertiary government hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines and to identify the job-related factors that may be associated with these outcomes.

This is an analytical, cross-sectional study among HCWs involved in direct patient care in a tertiary government hospital in the Philippines during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data collection was conducted from February to March 2022 through an online self-administered questionnaire, which included the Demand-Control-Support Questionnaire (DCSQ), and the 21-item Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21). This was sent to doctors, nurses, and allied medical workers actively working in the clinical areas. All responses were collected and analyzed.

Three hundred sixty-four healthcare workers were included in the study. Majority were single (62.62%), living with immediate family (50.82%), and working in a COVID-designated area (62.09%). High prevalence of depression (49.18%), anxiety (61.54%), and stress (30.22%) was found among the HCWs. Work in high infection/COVID-designated areas was significantly associated with anxiety and stress, and high-job demand was significantly associated with all three mental health states compared to low job-demand.

Focus should be placed on modifying the condition of high job demand among healthcare workers working in hospitals. This includes ensuring optimum staffing levels and patient to HCW ratio which avoids HCWs from being subjected to high workloads and time pressures that subsequently increase risk for stress, anxiety, and depression.