Issues

ABSTRACT

Introduction: The communication is considered to be necessary, especially between the healthcare workers and the oncology patients. There are some specific models of communication and various steps that lead to a therapeutical communication. A particular emphasis should be placed on the usage of the bio-psycho-sociological model and various skills should be used so that this is acquired. Although such a model is effective in dealing with the patients and their relatives, it is not used by many of the healthcare workers.

Aim: The purpose of this bibliographical review was to examine whether the proper communication is helpful in dealing with oncology patients.

Material and method: For the accomplishment of this bibliographical review, articles were collected both in Greek and English from the Pubmed and Google scholar, by using the key-words: «communication», «oncology patient» and «health professional». Master thesis and senior thesis were excluded and articles and books were collected.

Results: All the medical staff should cope with the physical and psychological needs of cancer patients through the usage of communication. The communication should be patient-centered because only in this way is it beneficial to the participants. By many articles it is proved that, effective communication with the usage of specific methods leads to a reduction of the psychological problems and to an establishment of a proper therapeutic relationship. Also, there are various obstacles in the communication for the nurses to overcome, depending on the case. Finally, the oncology nurse must treat the terminal stage patient with a holistic approach thus, to establish a meaningful relationship.

Conclusions: The usage of the bio-psycho-sociological model and the communication in general is considered absolutely necessary, since the psychological status of the patient is improved (yet this does not mean that all the physiological problems are cured) and the healthcare workers benefits by the reception of necessary information.

Keywords:  communication, oncology patient, health professional

ABSTRACT

Acute compartment syndrome consists of one of the few emergencies in orthopedics and traumatology. Compartment syndrome signifies a painful condition occurred due to the increase interstitial pressure (intra-compartmental pressure - ICP) within a closed osteofascial compartment where local circulation is impaired. Lower limb and especially legs are the mostly affected site however, arms, hands, feet, and buttocks can also be affected. Development of compartment syndrome usually comes out after severe injuries including high energy fractures or crush injuries, it can be although the result of minor or iatrogenic injuries. Diagnosing ACS is difficult in clinical practice, even among expert surgeons. Currently, the diagnosis is made on the basis of physical examination and repeated ICP measures. ICP higher than 30 mmHg of diastolic blood pressure is significant of compartment syndrome. Once diagnosis is made, fasciotomy to release the affected compartment should be performed as early as possible because delayed decompression would lead to irreversible ischemic damage to muscles and peripheral nerves. There is still little consensus among authors about diagnosis and treatment of these serious condition, in particular about the ICP at which fasciotomy is absolutely indicated and the timing of wound closure. Further research is mandatory to improve diagnosis and treatment of ACS.

Keywords: acute comparment syndrome, interstitial fluid, fasciotomy

ABSTRACT

The process of preventive health screening is one of the fundamental pillars of public health. Its primary goal is to identify and prevent diseases before they become serious, by detecting them at an early stage. To assess an individual’s health and identify any danger signs or diseases in their early stages, this systematic technique combines information from numerous diagnostic tests with clinical observations and imaging tests.

According to the World Health Organization, any activity undertaken to protect a community from potential threats and to enhance protection against such risks is considered preventive. As a result, primary and secondary prevention, early intervention, and slowing the progression of disease are all possible outcomes that can be achieved with preventive health screening.

The use of digital technology and artificial intelligence facilitates the evaluation of vast amounts of data and the assessment of the risk of various diseases, which in turn improves the ability to adapt treatment plans.

As an additional tool, preventive health screening has the potential to help minimize health inequalities, if designed and conducted with social awareness. Implementing policies that allow universal access and integrate cultural competence into preventive activities is essential to ensure the effectiveness of preventive health screening.

The process of preventive health screening is a personalized, evidence-based and systematic prevention strategy that improves the overall health of a population, reduces healthcare costs and improves the quality of life of individuals within the population. The concept of preventive health screening is dynamic, meaning that it is susceptible to change in light of new research, technological developments, and societal expectations.

Keywords: prevention, preventive screening, benefits, health care team

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Brucellosis is a disease caused by the bacterium Brucella Melitensis. Brucellosis is the most common disease in our country, while it is also characterized as the most frequent disease recorded worldwide, counting over 500,000 cases annually. Brucellosis is a serious disease that, if humans do not apply the appropriate precautions, risks becoming seriously ill, both themselves and their animals and neighboring animals.

Aim: To investigate the frequency of the disease in at-risk populations, as well as their practices and attitudes towards its prevention. Structured questionnaires were distributed to farmers and slaughterhouse personnel in the regions of Western Greece, Epirus, and the Peloponnese for this purpose.

Material and Method: The research focused on the study of the attitudes of livestock breeders and slaughterhouse workers in Western Greece regarding the observance of personal and professional hygiene measures. The study population included 314 animal owners in Western Greece, whose occupations bring them into direct contact with animals and their products. Through questionnaires, the research investigated the knowledge of the participants about brucellosis, the frequency of contact with the disease, and the prevention measures followed.

Results: Of the participants, 9.9% had contracted brucellosis, with fever being the most common symptom, and in most cases, animal protection principles were observed (e.g., vaccinations). The higher the educational level of the participants, the better informed they were about brucellosis, and the lower the likelihood of contracting the disease. Additionally, the more participants processed milk, the lower the likelihood of contracting brucellosis. Adherence to hygiene measures was inversely related to the likelihood of disease, while incomplete use of protective equipment was also observed.

Conclusions: Adherence to measures outlined by the World Health Organization for disease prevention is deemed necessary, and planning and implementation of interventions may lead to better compliance and limitation of cases.

Keywords: Brucella, zoonosis, melioid fever, Brucellosis

Introduction: The coronavirus pandemic brought great changes in daily working life in Greece. The majority of telecommuting workers faced consequences on health such as effects on their musculoskeletal system. Aim: This study aimed to interpret through the research questions the workers' musculoskeletal health and investigate the relationship between telecommuting and musculoskeletal disorders. Method: The cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 232 ministry employees through an in-house built questionnaire of demographic and work characteristics and the General Nordic for the musculoskeletal symptoms Questionnaire (NMQ). After the necessary approvals, the questionnaires were distributed and collected in November and December 2021 and were further statistically processed with SPSS19. Results: The study sample was mainly female (72.4%), with a mean age of 48.1±10.3 years. The overall average years of service were 23.5±8.7; the average weekly working hours were 41.6±4.7. 94.4% reported experiencing discomfort from at least one musculoskeletal problem in the last 12 months, while 59.1% had a problem at their day job due to discomfort in at least one part of the body. The most significant positive correlations were found for musculoskeletal disorders: in the last 12 months in relation to gender in the neck and scapular region, in discomfort during daily activities in the last 12 months in relation to gender and upper back and between weekly working hours and discomfort in shoulders, elbows and wrists. Conclusion: The violent increase in telecommuting seems to have caused an increase in musculoskeletal disorders in the neck, shoulder region and upper limbs.

Keywords: Musculoskeletal problems, teleworking from home, computer based office work, General Nordic for the Musculoskeletal Symptoms Questionnaire (NMQ)

ABSTRACT Introduction: Resilience, burnout, and workplace bullying significantly impact the professional well-being and care quality provided by healthcare professionals. Nurses on fixed-term contracts in the Greek National Health System (NHS) are facing unique challenges, including increased job stress due to precarious working conditions. Aim: This study aims to investigate the relationship between resilience, burnout, and workplace bullying among nurses on fixed-term contracts in the Greek National Health System. Material and Methods: The study included 120 nurses, of which 109 are women (90.8%), 10 are men (8.3%), serving in the National Health System in Greece. Data were collected using validated questionnaires measuring resilience, burnout, and workplace bullying. The Analysis included Pearson correlations and regression analysis. Results: Resilience was not significantly correlated with burnout (p=0.700) or workplace bullying (p=0.412). Conversely, workplace bullying was positively and significantly correlated with burnout (r=0.245, p=0.007). Regression analysis indicated that workplace bullying is a significant predictor of burnout (p=0.007). Conclusions: Workplace bullying emerges as a central factor contributing to burnout among nurses on fixed-term contracts serving in the National Health System in Greece. The findings highlight the need for psychological support strategies, strengthening resilience, and interventions to mitigate workplace bullying. Keywords: Resilience, Burnout, Contract Nurses, Workplace Bullying

Keywords: Resilience, Burnout, Contract Nurses, Workplace Bullying

ABSTRACT

Introduction: In the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, supporting the vital functions of preterm neonates is necessary, along with timely intervention in their sensory and psychological state, through specialties such as Occupational Therapy.

Aim: The purpose of the present systematic review was to explore occupational therapy interventions for preterm neonates at high risk in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. In addition, it also ascertains the theories and approaches adopted by Occupational Therapists within the interdisciplinary team for neonates a high risk in a NICU.

Methodology: Relevant articles published between 2004-2024 were searched in PubMed, ScienceDirect, and CINAHL scientific databases. The search strategy consisted of controlled search terms relevant to the search topic, such as “preterm”, “neonates”, “occupational therapy”, and “neonatal intensive care unit”, along with their combinations.

Results: Out of 204 studies, 23 studies met the inclusion criteria, reporting Occupational Therapy guidelines, as well as theories and approaches consistent with Occupational Therapy for intervention in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Findings suggest that Occupational Therapy utilizes the Person-Environment-Occupation theoretical model, framing the preterm neonate in relation to their environment and the occupations they engage in. Occupational Therapy's contribution to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is based on developmental and family-centered approaches, aiming both to promote the self-regulation of preterm neonates in stressful conditions and to improve neurodevelopment.

Conclusions: Within the framework of the interdisciplinary approach in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Occupational Therapy integrates innovative approaches and evidence-based therapeutic methods to address the needs of preterm neonates on physical, sensory, and psychosocial levels. This promotes health, well-being, and participation in developmentally appropriate basic daily activities.

Keywords: Occupational Therapy, preterm neonates, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

ABSTRACT Introduction: The term Laser (Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation) refers to a concept originated by Einstein in 1917 on the physical principles of stimulated light emission while the first ruby laser was built in 1967. It is widely used in therapeutic and diagnostic fields such as surgery, dentistry, aesthetics, etc. Due to its photostimulation it favours the contraction of chronic ulcers providing analgesic and biostimulant effects faster and safer than more conservative treatment methods. Purpose: Investigating the effectiveness of therapeutic use of laser in the healing process of chronic ulcers Methodology: A systematic review was performed in the online databases Pub Med and Google Scholar. Inclusion criteria were primary studies of patients of any age with chronic ulcers, published in the English language, in the period 2015-2021. Results: The review yielded 23 articles that met the inclusion criteria. From the studies it follows the positive effect of laser therapy in the management and treatment of chronic and non-healing ulcers, such as DFUs and VLUs. It appears to be effective due to the faster healing process, cleaning and reducing the surface area of wounds and limiting pain and infections. Conclusions: Application of low-level laser therapy appears to have significant advantages over conventional therapy or other techniques.

Keywords: Laser Therapy, Wound Healing, Ulcers

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Breastfeeding is thought to be crucial for the infant's healthy growth, for enhancing the mother-child attachment emotionally, and for protecting women from developing gynecological cancers. However, both the use of artificial milk and the length of time spent breastfeeding have decreased in recent years.

Aim: The purpose of this systematic review was to study the interventions that have been implemented in the last five years in the countries of Europe in order to promote breastfeeding in pregnant women and women in postpartum period. The articles included in the review underwent quality assessment using tools such as the Cochrane risk of Bias (RoB-2), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Joanna Briggs Institute. (JBI).

Material and method: The literature search was performed between December 2023 and January 2024 in databases: Pubmed, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar, for the years 2018-2023 using the keywords “intervention”, “breastfeeding”, “lactation”, “primiparous”, “women”, “infant” as well as synonyms.

Results: A total of 20 studies were included in the review. It was observed that the majority of interventions were particularly effective both in increasing the rates of breastfeeding and its duration. In addition, the interventions contributed greatly to increasing mothers' self-efficacy for breastfeeding. Mothers gained knowledge and skills about breastfeeding while feeling more confident to breastfeed and successfully deal with any problems that arise. Therefore, it was important the contribution of peer women who implemented the interventions after they had been receiving training from health care professionals.

Conclusions: In conclusion, it is deemed necessary to maintain the implementation of interventions aimed at promoting breastfeeding, especially when these are implemented by peer women.

Keywords: Lactation, Infant nutrition, Health promotion, Feeding behavior

Introduction. The role of the school nurse is multidimensional. This means he has to multitask and adjust his schedule when any emergency arises. Its main role is the promotion of the health of the school population, as well as to provide First Aid. Purpose. This study tries to highlight the emergencies that a greek public primary school faces every day. In addition, this study can identify all the interventions that only a nurse can do in a school and can emphasize the importance of the presence of this professional in any kind of school. Material and Method. This is a quantitative study during the period December 2021 – February 2022 and it was conducted in a primary school with 229 students. Results. In 52 working days, the school nurse performed 175 interventions, on 96 boys and 79 girls. The interventions he made varied. No child needed to be accompanied by a nurse to a nursing facility. Conclusions. The existence of a school nurse should be mandatory in every school. His interventions cannot be done by another professional in the school environment. Furthermore, the creation of a common recording system must be imperative. This will help the school nurses and the future studies.

Keywords: Health and school environment, nurse, role, general education

The intersection of health and humanistic disciplines and its numerous benefits has been a matter of concern for scientists since the late 19th century. Over the next years and up to the present day, significant steps have been made globally in this direction, with a plethora of research supporting the positive effects of this connection. In this paper, we focus on a specific case of a writer and physician, Anton Pavlovich Chekhov (case-study). We examine the influence of the writer-artist on the doctor-scientist. Our main research material is his extensive correspondence, which serves as his personal testimony regarding both his ideas and actions. Additionally, we examine other available texts of his, literary and other, to draw conclusions. Our main questions are: • What are the elements of Chekhov's literary persona that intersect with and influence the physician Chekhov? • How and to what extent can these elements prove useful today in the development of soft skills for professionals in the healthcare field? Detailed observation, communication with patients, empathy and social activism are key points that correspond to qualities often referred to as "soft skills" and are considered extremely important for healthcare professionals by many experts. Based on the above and the example Chekhov set in relation to the above, we align ourselves with scientists who advocate for the usefulness or even necessity of introducing arts education courses into the education of physicians and healthcare professionals in general.

Keywords: Medical Humanities, literature and medicine, Anton Chekhov, soft skills