scholarly journals Perceptions on Competence by Design in urology

2018 ◽  
Vol 13 (7) ◽  
Author(s):  
Peter (Zhan Tao) Wang ◽  
Ernest Chan ◽  
Adam Forster ◽  
Jennifer Vergel De Dios ◽  
Alp Sener ◽  
...  

Introduction: The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada has begun implementing Competence by Design (CBD). However, it is unclear how much urology trainees and faculty know about CBD, their attitudes towards this change, and their willingness to embrace and participate in this new model of training.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted through an online survey, which was administered to all trainees and faculty at Canadian urology programs prior to the implementation of CBD. The final survey consisted of eight demographic questions, 17 fivepoint Likert items, one visual analog scale question, 11 multiple selection questions, and two open-ended questions.Results: A total of 74 participants (38 faculty and 36 trainees) across 12 universities responded, with a completion rate of 82.4%. This corresponded to an overall response rate of 20.5%. Overall, there was a lack of resounding enthusiasm towards this shift to CBD in urology. Although both trainees and faculty had overall positive perceptions of CBD on assessment, teaching, and readiness, most agreed that this transition will be costly and associated with increased requirements for time, funding, and administrative support. Furthermore, there were significant concerns regarding the lack of valid assessment tools and evidence for the validity of entrustable professional activities.Conclusions: While this survey has demonstrated an appreciation for the benefits of CBD, challenges are equally anticipated. CBD in urology will be a fertile research area; this study has identified several important educational questions regarding the model’s effectiveness and consequences, thus, providing collaborative opportunities among all Canadian programs.

Author(s):  
Rana E. El Feghaly ◽  
Elizabeth A. Monsees ◽  
Alaina Burns ◽  
Ann Wirtz ◽  
Brian R. Lee ◽  
...  

Abstract Objective: To assess current resources, interventions, and obstacles of pediatric outpatient antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASP). Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Institutions from the Sharing Antimicrobial Reports for Pediatric Stewardship OutPatient collaborative (SHARPS-OP). Participants: Antimicrobial stewardship leaders from the above institutions. Methods: An investigator-developed survey was deployed online in September 2020 to antimicrobial stewardship leaders in SHARPS-OP institutions. The survey was divided into 4 sections: (1) basic information, (2) status of pediatric outpatient ASP in the institutions including financial support, (3) outpatient ASP interventions undertaken by the institutions, and (4) needs and SHARPS-OP collaborative goals. Results: Of 56 invited institutions, 45 participated, achieving an 80% response rate. Only 5 sites (11%) had allocated financial support for an outpatient ASP, compared to 42 (95.6%) for their inpatient ASP. The most widely used outpatient ASP interventions included antimicrobial guidance (57.8%), education (46.7%), and quality improvement projects (37.8%). Time was identified as the biggest barrier to expanding outpatient ASPs (91.1%), followed by financial support (53.3%), development of meaningful reports (51.1%), and administrative support (44.4%). Important goals of the collaborative included seeking learning opportunities and developing clear metrics for pediatric outpatient ASP benchmarking. Program needs included securing operational support (35.8%) and strengthening data analysis (31.6%). Conclusions: Very few pediatric institutions with robust inpatient ASPs have devoted time and financial support to advance outpatient efforts. To promote appropriate antibiotic prescribing in the outpatient arena, time and resource funding by administrative leaders are necessary to develop a robust, sustainable stewardship infrastructure.


2017 ◽  
Vol 14 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Wayne Harris ◽  
Auston Rotheram ◽  
Sue Pearson ◽  
Peter Lucas ◽  
Dale Edwards ◽  
...  

IntroductionStudies have identified that visual estimation of blood loss is highly inaccurate, however no research has investigated the relationship between this practice and the confidence of estimation by paramedics.The aim of this study was to determine paramedic confidence in the estimation of, and reporting of external blood loss due to medical or trauma aetiology, within an Australasian paramedic context.MethodsBetween July and September 2015, a cross-sectional survey was distributed through Australasian paramedic professional bodies to determine confidence in estimating and documentation of external blood loss. Using Likert scale and free text responses, participants provided demographic information and their self-perceived confidence in estimating and documenting external blood loss.ResultsFive thousand six hundred paramedics were invited to participate in an online survey. Two hundred and eight responses were received (3.8% response rate). A total of 86.6% of participants reported documenting blood loss in clinical reports, however only 47.8% of participants believed their estimation of external blood loss was accurate with 13% reporting underestimation and 33.5% reporting overestimation of blood loss. Additionally, only 51.6% of participants agreed to strongly agreed that they were confident in their estimation of blood loss.ConclusionThis research demonstrates the majority of paramedics estimate and document external blood loss, yet nearly half do not feel confident in doing so, despite indicating its importance. Educational and organisational changes are recommended to reflect the clear evidence against this practice. Further research is recommended to identify appropriate physiological parameters and practical assessment tools to replace this inaccurate form of clinical assessment.


2017 ◽  
Vol 62 (11) ◽  
pp. 787-794 ◽  
Author(s):  
Skye Rousseau ◽  
Sarah Turner ◽  
Harvey Max Chochinov ◽  
Murray W. Enns ◽  
Jitender Sareen

Background: Bill C-14 allows for medical assistance in dying (MAID) for patients who have intolerable physical or psychological suffering that occurs in the context of a reasonably foreseeable death. In Canada, psychiatrist support for MAID on the basis of mental illness and beliefs influencing level of support are unknown. The objectives of this research were to 1) determine if psychiatrists are supportive of MAID under certain conditions and on the basis of mental illness and 2) determine what factors are related to psychiatrist support for MAID on the basis of mental illness. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 528 psychiatrists in Canada using an online survey platform (February 19 to March 11, 2016). Results: The response rate was 20.9% ( n = 528). Most psychiatrists supported the legalisation of MAID in some circumstances (72%); however, only 29.4% supported MAID on the basis of mental illness. Factors correlating with decreased support for MAID for mental illness were the belief that MAID for mental illness would change the psychiatrists’ commitment to their patients through enduring suffering, having a personal faith, and having had past patients who would have received MAID for mental illness were it legal but instead went on to recover. Interpretation: This study found that most psychiatrists do not support the legalisation of MAID for mental illness, despite being quite supportive of MAID in general. Objections seemed to be based upon concern for vulnerable patients, personal moral objections, and concern for the effect it would have on the therapeutic alliance.


2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marwa Summaka ◽  
Hayat Harati ◽  
Salem Hannoun ◽  
Hiba Zein ◽  
Nour Koubaisy ◽  
...  

Abstract Background: Dysarthria is an acquired motor speech disorder. The evidence base for the assessment of dysarthria remains limited with professional practices relying mainly on therapists’ clinical experience. Limited information on the assessment practices of Lebanese speech and language therapists (SLTs) is available. Such information is crucial for the development of adequate therapy services for clients with non-progressive dysarthria. This study aims to explore the assessment practices and attitudes of Lebanese SLTs working with adults with non-progressive dysarthria and to investigate their adherence to the framework of the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Lebanon between March and May 2021. Data was collected through an online survey that included information on socio-demographic characteristics, practices, and attitudes of SLTs who assess adults with non-progressive dysarthria. Results: A total of 50 Lebanese SLTs responded to the survey. The majority of SLTs (78%) assessed clients with non-progressive dysarthria across all ICF domains. SLTs reported dissatisfaction with the available assessment tools (64%) and reliance on informal tools (84%). In addition, 68% of the SLTs suggested the crucial need for the development of Arabic formal assessments that can quantitatively evaluate dysarthria and determine severity. The survey also showed that the respondents demonstrated a preference for the use of impairment-based tools.Conclusion: It can be concluded that the assessment practices of Lebanese SLTs, generally, follow the international trend and the recommended professional guidelines. Further research initiatives should be held to develop Arabic formal assessment tools for non-progressive dysarthria.


2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Elyse Denman ◽  
Elizabeth Kumiko Parker ◽  
Mellisa Anne Ashley ◽  
Deanne Maree Harris ◽  
Mark Halaki ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Following recent reforms by the Australian Government to the Medicare Benefits Schedule, people living with a diagnosed eating disorder (ED) in Australia have greater access to dietetic services. However, new graduate dietitians anecdotally lack confidence to provide appropriate interventions to support patients with an ED. Therefore, this cross-sectional study aims to explore the perceived confidence, and educational and professional development needs of student dietitians and new graduate dietitians in the area of EDs. Methods An online survey with 17 questions was designed, consisting of a combination of discrete (yes/no) questions, free text, ordered scales and 5-point Likert scales. Student dietitians, and first- and second- year graduates (n = 1456) were approached via email as potential participants, from the professional organisation Dietitians Australia member list. Survey data was analysed using descriptive statistics and odds ratios. Results In total, 150 surveys were completed, with a response rate of 10.3%. Respondents reported a lack of confidence in managing patients with an ED and implementing ED treatment approaches (81 and 95%, respectively). However, participants previously exposed to patients with an ED, such as anorexia nervosa, were 4.7 times (95% CI 1.72, 12.97) more likely to be confident compared to those not exposed to patients with an ED. The majority of respondents (37%) stated they would seek assistance from other dietitians, and develop their skills via online webinars (27%) and workshops (25%). Conclusions This survey identified that final year dietetics students and new graduate dietitians perceive lower levels of confidence to practice in the area of EDs. The desire for further ED-specific training and education was reported.


2018 ◽  
Vol 39 (2) ◽  
pp. 76-87 ◽  
Author(s):  
Buaphrao Raphiphatthana ◽  
Paul Jose ◽  
Karen Salmon

Abstract. Grit, that is, perseverance and passion for long-term goals, is a novel construct that has gained attention in recent years ( Duckworth, Peterson, Matthews, & Kelly, 2007 ). To date, little research has been performed with the goal of identifying the antecedents of grit. Thus, in order to fill this gap in the literature, self-report data were collected to examine whether mindfulness, a mindset of being-in-the-present in a nonjudgmental way, plays a role in fostering grittiness. Three hundred and forty-three undergraduate students completed an online survey once in a cross-sectional study, and of these, 74 students completed the survey again 4.5 months later. Although the cross-sectional analyses identified a number of positive associations between mindfulness and grit, the longitudinal analysis revealed that the mindfulness facets of acting with awareness and non-judging were the most important positive predictors of grit 4.5 months later. This set of findings offers implications for future grit interventions.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohammad Alakchar ◽  
Abdisamad M. Ibrahim ◽  
Mohsin Salih ◽  
Mukul Bhattarai ◽  
Nitin Tandan ◽  
...  

BACKGROUND Interpretation of electrocardiograms (EKG) is an essential tool for every physician. Despite this, the diagnosis of life-threatening pathology on EKG remains suboptimal in trainees. The purpose of this study is to study resident attitudes and behaviours towards EKGs, and describe an innovative way to teach EKGs. OBJECTIVE Study attitudes and behaviours towards EKGs. Describe an innovative way to teach EKGs. METHODS Design: An observational cross-sectional study through an anonymous online survey of resident attitudes and comfort with EKG interpretation. This was followed by creation of a WhatsApp group for discussion and interpretation of EKGs with peers. At the end of the day, the official EKG interpretation was posted. Setting: Internal medicine residency at Southern Illinois University. Participants: Internal medicine residents Interventions: Creation of WhatsApp group to aid with EKG interpretation Measurements: A 17 item questionnaire, followed by detection of degree of participation in a WhatsApp group. RESULTS Forty-one out of 63 residents (65%) completed the survey. 85% of respondents thought that an interactive way to teach EKGs is the best method of teaching, and 73% did not feel confident interpreting EKGs. 30% often rely on automated EKG interpretation. Further analysis indicated that PGY-1 residents reported ordering fewer EKGs (correlation coefficient -0.399, p = 0.012) and were uncomfortable diagnosing QT prolongation on an EKG (correlation coefficient -0.310, p = 0.049). Residents in the third or greater year of training ordered more EKGs (correlation coefficient 0.379, p = 0.015), less frequently relied on the computer for EKG diagnosis (correlation coefficient 0.399, p = 0.010), and were comfortable diagnosing an acute myocardial infarction and atrial arrhythmias. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, most IM trainees do not feel comfortable interpreting EKG, however, this does improve with PGY year. WhatsApp is a possible platform for teaching EKGs.


Author(s):  
Christina Brogårdh ◽  
Catharina Sjödahl Hammarlund ◽  
Frida Eek ◽  
Kjerstin Stigmar ◽  
Ingrid Lindgren ◽  
...  

Currently, there is limited knowledge on how the Swedish strategy with more lenient public health restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced people’s life satisfaction. Here, we investigated self-reported life satisfaction during the first wave of the pandemic in Sweden, and perceived changes in life satisfaction in relation to various sociodemographic factors. A total of 1082 people (mean age 48 (SD 12.2); 82% women) responded to an online survey during autumn 2020 including the “Life Satisfaction Questionnaire-11”. A majority (69%) were satisfied with life as a whole, and with other important life domains, with the exception of contact with friends and sexual life. An equal share reported that life as a whole had either deteriorated (28%) or improved (29%). Of those that perceived a deterioration, 95% considered it to be due to the pandemic. Regarding deteriorated satisfaction with life as a whole, higher odds were found in the following groups: having no children living at home; being middle aged; having other sources of income than being employed; and having a chronic disease. The Swedish strategy might have contributed to the high proportion of satisfied people. Those who perceived a deterioration in life satisfaction may, however, need attention from Swedish Welfare Authorities.


2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (1) ◽  
pp. e000958
Author(s):  
Merel M Nap-van der Vlist ◽  
Geertje W Dalmeijer ◽  
Martha A Grootenhuis ◽  
Kors van der Ent ◽  
Marry M van den Heuvel-Eibrink ◽  
...  

ObjectiveTo determine: (1) which biological/lifestyle, psychological and/or social factors are associated with fatigue among children with a chronic disease and (2) how much each of these factors contributes to explaining variance in fatigue.Design and settingThis was a cross-sectional study across two children’s hospitals.PatientsWe included children aged 8–18 years who visited the outpatient clinic with cystic fibrosis, an autoimmune disease or postcancer treatment.Main outcome measuresFatigue was assessed using the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale. Generic biological/lifestyle, psychological and social factors were assessed using clinical assessment tools and questionnaires. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to test the associations between these factors and fatigue. Finally, a multivariable regression model was used to determine which factor(s) have the strongest effect on fatigue.ResultsA total of 434 out of 902 children were included (48% participation rate), with a median age of 14.5 years; 42% were male. Among these 434 children, 21.8% were severely fatigued. Together, all biopsychosocial factors explained 74.6% of the variance in fatigue. More fatigue was uniquely associated with poorer physical functioning, more depressive symptoms, more pressure at school, poorer social functioning and older age.ConclusionsFatigue among children with a chronic disease is multidimensional. Multiple generic biological/lifestyle, psychological and social factors were strongly associated with fatigue, explaining 58.4%; 65.8% and 50.0% of the variance in fatigue, respectively. Altogether, almost three-quarters of the variance in fatigue was explained by this biopsychosocial model. Thus, when assessing and treating fatigue, a transdiagnostic approach is preferred, taking into account biological, psychological and social factors.


2021 ◽  
pp. 1-8
Author(s):  
Perla Werner ◽  
Sarang Kim

Background: Despite the increasing amount of research on dementia stigma, there is a dearth of cross-national studies conducted on this subject. This is surprising since the experience of stigma is closely associated to socio-cultural aspects. Objective: The present study intended to expand knowledge about the impact of culture on dementia stigma by comparing the level and correlates of stigmatic beliefs about dementia among the general public in Israel and Australia. Methods: A cross-sectional study using an online survey was conducted with two age-matched samples: 447 adults in Israel and 290 adults in Australia. Results: Overall, dementia stigma was moderate in both countries. However, the level of dementia stigma was significantly higher in Australia than in Israel. Lower levels of subjective knowledge and higher levels of ageism were associated with increased levels of stigmatic beliefs in both countries. Gender was a significant correlate of dementia stigma, with male participants reporting higher levels of public stigma than women, although this gender difference was mainly driven by the Australian sample. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that providing knowledge and decreasing ageist attitudes should be key considerations in dementia awareness and stigma reduction campaigns despite the cultural context. In addition, developing gender-specific messages should be considered as a way of improving the effects of such campaigns.


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