scholarly journals Clinical Evaluation of Non-Contact Infrared Thermometers

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stacey J.L. Sullivan ◽  
Jean E. Rinaldi ◽  
Prasanna Hariharan ◽  
Jon P. Casamento ◽  
Seungchul Baek ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Screening Tool ◽  
Measurement Tool ◽  
Measured Temperature ◽  
Oral Temperature ◽  
Model Accuracy ◽  
Individual Model ◽  
Healthcare Settings ◽  
The Individual ◽  
Model Variability ◽  
Clinical Bias

Abstract Background:Non-contact infrared thermometers (NCITs) are being widely used during the COVID-19 pandemic as a temperature-measurement tool for screening and isolating patients in healthcare settings, travelers at ports of entry, and the general public. Methods:To understand the accuracy of NCITs, a clinical study was conducted with 1113 adult subjects using six different commercially available NCIT models. A total of 60 NCITs were tested with 10 units for each model. The NCIT-measured temperature was compared with the oral temperature obtained using a reference oral thermometer. Results:The mean difference between the reference thermometer and NCIT measurement (clinical bias) was different for each NCIT model. The clinical bias ranged from just under -0.9 °C (under-reporting) to just over 0.2 °C (over-reporting). The individual differences ranged from -3 °C to +2 °C in extreme cases, with the majority of the differences between -2 °C and +1 °C. Depending upon the NCIT model, 48% to 88% of the individual temperature measurements were outside the labeled accuracy stated by the manufacturers. The sensitivity of the NCIT models for detecting subject’s temperature above 38 °C ranged from 0 to 0.69. Conclusions: Overall, our results indicate that some NCIT devices may not be consistently accurate enough to determine if subject’s temperature exceeds a specific threshold of 38 °C. Model-to-model variability and individual model accuracy in the displayed temperature were found to be outside of acceptable limits. Accuracy and credibility of the NCITs should be thoroughly evaluated before using them as an effective screening tool.

scholarly journals Clinical evaluation of non-contact infrared thermometers

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Stacey J. L. Sullivan ◽  
Jean E. Rinaldi ◽  
Prasanna Hariharan ◽  
Jon P. Casamento ◽  
Seungchul Baek ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Screening Tool ◽  
Measurement Tool ◽  
Measured Temperature ◽  
Oral Temperature ◽  
Model Accuracy ◽  
Healthcare Settings ◽  
The Mean ◽  
The Individual ◽  
Model Variability ◽  
Clinical Bias

AbstractNon-contact infrared thermometers (NCITs) are being widely used during the COVID-19 pandemic as a temperature-measurement tool for screening and isolating patients in healthcare settings, travelers at ports of entry, and the general public. To understand the accuracy of NCITs, a clinical study was conducted with 1113 adult subjects using six different commercially available NCIT models. A total of 60 NCITs were tested with 10 units for each model. The NCIT-measured temperature was compared with the oral temperature obtained using a reference oral thermometer. The mean difference between the reference thermometer and NCIT measurement (clinical bias) was different for each NCIT model. The clinical bias ranged from just under − 0.9 °C (under-reporting) to just over 0.2 °C (over-reporting). The individual differences ranged from − 3 to + 2 °C in extreme cases, with the majority of the differences between − 2 and + 1 °C. Depending upon the NCIT model, 48% to 88% of the individual temperature measurements were outside the labeled accuracy stated by the manufacturers. The sensitivity of the NCIT models for detecting subject’s temperature above 38 °C ranged from 0 to 0.69. Overall, our results indicate that some NCIT devices may not be consistently accurate enough to determine if subject’s temperature exceeds a specific threshold of 38 °C. Model-to-model variability and individual model accuracy in the displayed temperature were found to be outside of acceptable limits. Accuracy and credibility of the NCITs should be thoroughly evaluated before using them as an effective screening tool.

scholarly journals Wearable robotic exoskeletons: A socio-philosophical perspective on Duchenne muscular dystrophy research

2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
pp. 404-413
Author(s):  
Alexandra Kapeller ◽  
Michael H. Nagenborg ◽  
Kostas Nizamis
Keyword(s):  
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy ◽  
Muscular Dystrophy ◽  
Disability Studies ◽  
Philosophy Of Technology ◽  
Research Projects ◽  
Philosophical Perspective ◽  
Individual Model ◽  
Engineering Sciences ◽  
The Social ◽  
The Individual

AbstractRecently, several research projects in the Netherlands have focused on the development of wearable robotic exoskeletons (WREs) for individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Such research on WREs is often treated solely within the disciplines of biomedical and mechanical engineering, overlooking insights from disability studies and philosophy of technology. We argue that mainly two such insights should receive attention: the problematization of the ableism connected to the individual model of disability and the stigmatization by assistive technology. While disability studies have largely rejected the individual model of disability, the engineering sciences seem to still locate disability in an individual’s body, not questioning their own problematization of disability. Additionally, philosophy of technology has argued that technologies are not neutral instruments but shape users’ actions and perceptions. The design of WREs may convey a message about the understanding of disability, which can be comprehended as a challenge and an opportunity: stigmatization needs to be avoided and positive views on disability can be evoked. This article aims to highlight the benefits of considering these socio-philosophical perspectives by examining the case of WREs for people with DMD and proposing design principles for WREs. These principles may enhance acceptability of WREs, not only by individuals with DMD but also by other users, and help engineers to better place their work in the social context.

The Perennial Problem of Variability In Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) Tests for Hygiene Monitoring Within Healthcare Settings

2015 ◽  
Vol 36 (6) ◽  
pp. 658-663 ◽  
Author(s):  
Greg S. Whiteley ◽  
Chris Derry ◽  
Trevor Glasbey ◽  
Paul Fahey
Keyword(s):  
Pseudomonas Aeruginosa ◽  
Staphylococcus Epidermidis ◽  
Test Point ◽  
Dilution Series ◽  
Healthcare Settings ◽  
Speed Of Response ◽  
Numerical Scale ◽  
Dilution Step ◽  
The Mean ◽  
The Individual

OBJECTIVETo investigate the reliability of commercial ATP bioluminometers and to document precision and variability measurements using known and quantitated standard materials.METHODSFour commercially branded ATP bioluminometers and their consumables were subjected to a series of controlled studies with quantitated materials in multiple repetitions of dilution series. The individual dilutions were applied directly to ATP swabs. To assess precision and reproducibility, each dilution step was tested in triplicate or quadruplicate and the RLU reading from each test point was recorded. Results across the multiple dilution series were normalized using the coefficient of variation.RESULTSThe results for pure ATP and bacterial ATP from suspensions ofStaphylococcus epidermidisandPseudomonas aeruginosaare presented graphically. The data indicate that precision and reproducibility are poor across all brands tested. Standard deviation was as high as 50% of the mean for all brands, and in the field users are not provided any indication of this level of imprecision.CONCLUSIONSThe variability of commercial ATP bioluminometers and their consumables is unacceptably high with the current technical configuration. The advantage of speed of response is undermined by instrument imprecision expressed in the numerical scale of relative light units (RLU).Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol2015;00(0):1–6

scholarly journals The value of domiciliary medication reviews: a thematic analysis of patient views

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Patricia McCormick ◽  
Bridget Coleman ◽  
Ian Bates
Keyword(s):  
Thematic Analysis ◽  
Outcome Measure ◽  
Service Users ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Main Outcome Measure ◽  
Healthcare Settings ◽  
Medication Reviews ◽  
Informal Carers ◽  
The Individual ◽  
Patient Centric

AbstractBackground Medication reviews are recognised as essential to tackling problematic polypharmacy. Domiciliary medication reviews (DMRs) have become more prevalent in recent years. They are proclaimed as being patient-centric but published literature mainly focuses on clinical outcomes. However, it is not known where the value of DMRs lies for patients who participate in them. Objective To determine the value of domiciliary medication reviews to service users. Setting Interviews took place with recipients of domiciliary medication reviews residing in the London boroughs of Islington and Haringey. Method Semi-structured interviews analysed using thematic analysis. Main outcome measure Themes and sub-themes identified from interview transcripts. Results Five themes were identified: advantages over traditional settings, attributes of the professional, adherence, levels of engagement and knowledge. Conclusion For many patients, the domiciliary setting is preferred to traditional healthcare settings. Patients appreciated the time spent with them during a DMR and felt listened to. Informal carers felt reassured that the individual medication needs of their relative had been reviewed by an expert.

Some alternatives for the individual model

1994 ◽  
Vol 15 (2-3) ◽  
pp. 127-132 ◽  
Author(s):  
R. Kaas ◽  
H.U. Gerber
Keyword(s):  
Individual Model ◽  
The Individual

Development of the Caregiver Confidence using Music Scale

2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (4) ◽  
Author(s):  
David Kim ◽  
Brandon Ruan ◽  
Lee Bartel ◽  
Bev Foster ◽  
Chelsea Mackinnon
Keyword(s):  
Cluster Analysis ◽  
Convergent Validity ◽  
Assessment Tool ◽  
Hierarchical Cluster ◽  
Current Data ◽  
Face Validity ◽  
Measurement Tool ◽  
Healthcare Settings ◽  
Care Training ◽  
Readiness To Adopt

Music serves as an important tool to improve the health and wellness of individuals in healthcare settings. In times of high caregiver burnout, therapeutic outlets such as music for care receivers and providers are becoming increasingly important. This paper presents the first iteration of the Caregiver Confidence using Music Scale (CCuMS), an assessment tool designed to evaluate caregivers’ readiness to adopt music care. Music care is defined as the informed and intentional use of music by anyone to improve the quality of care. The CCuMS was derived from a hierarchical cluster analysis of the Music Care Training program’s Level 1 post-evaluation survey (Post-MCTL1). Thematic interpretation of the statistical outputs from the cluster analysis was completed, resulting in the first iteration of the CCuMS. Initial validation methods that were feasible with current data were conducted. Specifically, face validity, content validity and convergent validity were calculated using Pearson correlations. The CCuMS shows promise as a measurement tool for use in healthcare settings due to the moderate correlation between the Post-MCTL1 and the CCuMS scale (r=0.524), and the strong correlation between the music care training thematic questionnaire and the CCuMS (r=0.970).

scholarly journals Nurse managers’ perspectives on working with everyday ethics in long-term care

2020 ◽  
Vol 27 (8) ◽  
pp. 1669-1680
Author(s):  
Siri Andreassen Devik ◽  
Hilde Munkeby ◽  
Monica Finnanger ◽  
Aud Moe
Keyword(s):  
Nursing Care ◽  
Healthcare Workers ◽  
Nurse Managers ◽  
Home Nursing ◽  
Term Care ◽  
Ethical Competence ◽  
Healthcare Settings ◽  
Ethical Care ◽  
The Individual ◽  
Home Nursing Care

Background: Nurse managers are expected to continuously ensure that ethical standards are met and to support healthcare workers’ ethical competence. Several studies have concluded that nurses across various healthcare settings lack the support needed to provide safe, compassionate and competent ethical care. Objective: The aim of this study was to explore and understand how nurse managers perceive their role in supporting their staff in conducting ethically sound care in nursing homes and home nursing care. Design and participants: Qualitative individual interviews were performed with 10 nurse managers with human resources responsibilities for healthcare workers in four nursing home wards and six home nursing care districts. Content analysis was used to analyse the data. Ethical considerations: The Norwegian Centre for Research Data granted permission for this study. Findings: The analysis resulted in seven subcategories that were grouped into three main categories: managers’ perception of the importance of the role, managers’ experiences of exercising the role and managers’ opportunities to fulfil the role. Challenges with conceptualizing ethics were highlighted, as well as lack of applicable tools or time and varying motivation among employees. Discussion: The leaders tended to perceive ethics as a ‘personal matter’ and that the need for and benefit of ethical support (e.g., ethics reflection) depended on individuals’ vulnerability, attitudes, commitment and previous experiences. The managers did not seem to distinguish between their own responsibility to support ethical competence and the responsibility of the individual employee to provide ethical care. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that nurse managers need support themselves, both to understand and to carry out their responsibilities to foster their staffs’ ethical conduct. Supporting staff in conducting ethically sound care requires more than organizing meeting places for ethical reflection; it also requires greater awareness and understanding of what ethical leadership means.

scholarly journals Tri-Ponderal Mass Index: A Screening Tool for Risk of Central Fat Accumulation in Brazilian Preschool Children

Medicina ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 55 (9) ◽  
pp. 577 ◽  
Author(s):  
Viviane Gabriela Nascimento ◽  
Ciro João Bertoli ◽  
Paulo Rogerio Gallo ◽  
Luiz Carlos de Abreu ◽  
Claudio Leone
Keyword(s):  
Preschool Children ◽  
Roc Curve ◽  
Screening Tool ◽  
The Body ◽  
Fat Accumulation ◽  
Central Fat ◽  
The Mean ◽  
The Difference ◽  
The Individual ◽  
Higher Sensitivity

Background and Objectives: To verify the use of the tri-ponderalmass index (TMI) as a screening tool for risk of central fat accumulation in preschool children. Materials and Methods: An observational, analytical study was carried out on samples from children 2 to 5 years of age. The body mass index (BMI) and the tri-ponderalmass index (TMI: Weight/height3) were calculated. The waist circumference-to-height ratio (WHtR) was used to classify central fat accumulation risk. Preschoolers whose WHtRwas in the upper tertile of the sample were classified as at risk for central fat accumulation. A comparison of the two indicators (BMI and TMI) was made from the area under the receiver operator characteristics (ROC) curve (AUC) in the discrimination of the WHtR. Results: The sample used for analysis was 919 preschoolers. The mean age of the children was 3.9 years (SD = 0.7). The difference in AUC was 5% higher for TMI (p < 0.0001). In the individual analysis of the ROC curve of the TMI, favoring a higher sensitivity, the cutoff point of 14.0 kg/m3 showed a sensitivity of 99.3% (95% CI: 97.6–99.9). Conclusion: Considering WHtR as a marker of possible future metabolic risk among preschool children, TMI proved to be a useful tool, superior to BMI, in screening for risk of central fat accumulation in preschool children.

scholarly journals Social exclusion in primary healthcare settings: the time for measurement has come

2019 ◽  
Vol 29 (1) ◽  
pp. 10-13
Author(s):  
Patrick O’Donnell ◽  
Khalifa Elmusharaf
Keyword(s):  
Social Exclusion ◽  
Primary Healthcare ◽  
Knowledge Network ◽  
Individual Level ◽  
Healthcare Settings ◽  
Published Evidence ◽  
Measurement Tools ◽  
Definition Of ◽  
The Individual

Social exclusion is a concept that has been discussed and debated in many disciplines in recent decades. In 2006 the WHO Social Exclusion Knowledge Network published a report detailing their work explaining the relevance of social exclusion to the domain of health. As part of that work, the authors formulated a complex definition of social exclusion that has proven difficult to adapt or operationalize in healthcare settings. We looked at this WHO work, and at other published evidence, and decided that social exclusion is a concept that is worth measuring at the individual level in healthcare settings. We suggest that the primary healthcare space, in particular, is an ideal setting in which to do that measurement. We have examined existing social exclusion measurement tools, and scrutinised the approaches taken by their authors, and the various domains they measured. We now propose to develop and validate such a tool for use in primary healthcare settings.

scholarly journals Ensemble Forecasts of Air Quality in Eastern China – Part 2. Evaluation of the MarcoPolo-Panda Prediction System, Version 1

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anna Katinka Petersen ◽  
Guy P. Brasseur ◽  
Idir Bouarar ◽  
Johannes Flemming ◽  
Michael Gauss ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Air Pollution ◽  
Air Quality ◽  
Observational Data ◽  
Prediction System ◽  
Model Ensemble ◽  
Individual Model ◽  
Forecasting System ◽  
The Individual ◽  
Pollution Events ◽  
Statistical Indicators

Abstract. An operational multi-model forecasting system for air quality has been developed to provide air quality services for urban areas of China. The initial forecasting system included seven state-of-the-art computational models developed and executed in Europe and China (CHIMERE, IFS, EMEP MSC-W, WRF-Chem-MPIM, WRF-Chem-SMS, LOTOS-EUROS and SILAMtest). Several other models joined the prediction system recently, but are not considered in the present analysis. In addition to the individual models, a simple multi-model ensemble was constructed by deriving statistical quantities such as the median and the mean of the predicted concentrations. The prediction system provides daily forecasts and observational data of surface ozone, nitrogen dioxides and particulate matter for the 37 largest urban agglomerations in China (population higher than 3 million in 2010). These individual forecasts as well as the multi-model ensemble predictions for the next 72 hours are displayed as hourly outputs on a publicly accessible web site (www.marcopolo-panda.eu). In this paper, the performance of the predictions system (individual models and the multi-model ensemble) for the first operational year (April 2016 until June 2017) has been analysed through statistical indicators using the surface observational data reported at Chinese national monitoring stations. This evaluation aims to investigate a) the seasonal behavior, b) the geographical distribution and c) diurnal variations of the ensemble and model skills. Statistical indicators show that the ensemble product usually provides the best performance compared to the individual model forecasts. The ensemble product is robust even if occasionally some individual model results are missing. Overall and in spite of some discrepancies, the air quality forecasting system is well suited for the prediction of air pollution events and has the ability to provide alert warning (binary prediction) of air pollution events if bias corrections are applied to improve the ozone predictions.

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