A review of the injuries caused by occupational footwear

BACKGROUND

Occupational footwear is intended to provide protection against the risks associated with work activities. The choice of footwear is complex due to the welfare, health and safety conditions of workers.

AIMS

To identify the injuries and problems caused by occupational footwear through a systematic review of the existing literature.

METHODS

A literature search was carried out in the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Dialnet Plus, Pubmed, Scientific Electronic Library Online, Medline, Scopus and Web of Science databases over the period 2000-23, following the PRISMA Declaration guidelines.

RESULTS

A total of 27 studies were included in the review. The results indicated that there is a wide variety of injuries caused by occupational footwear: from dermal injuries (e.g. calluses) and injuries to the nail apparatus to inflammatory pathologies such as plantar fasciitis or bursitis. In addition, inappropriate footwear can cause pain in the ankle and foot, knees, hips and lower back. Other results include the discomfort derived from the footwear itself.

CONCLUSIONS

Inappropriate footwear can cause injuries to the foot and other related bone structures. Further studies are needed on the detection of foot injuries caused by occupational footwear and the levels of action at this level to improve the worker's health, the adaptability of the footwear to the wearer, and the worker's comfort and adherence to the footwear.

Psychological distress among unemployed migrants settling in southwestern Spain: A cross-sectional study

Migrants living in the informal settlements of Southern Spain tend to have precarious employment and poor living conditions, making then vulnerable to mental health issues. This study aimed to assess psychological distress in a sample of unemployed migrants residing in informal settlements in the province of Huelva (southern Spain), during the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted during the months of April to June 2021, through a heteroadministered questionnaire, in informal settlements. The measurement instrument was the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), used to analyze psychological distress, and other sociodemographic and health-related variables. Univariate and bivariate descriptive data analysis were performed, using the nonparametric statistics Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis H test, and Tau β correlation. A categorical regression analysis was performed to study the relationship between psychological distress and the rest of the variables. The sample consisted of 317 subjects, 83.9% of whom were males, and the mean age was 33.4 years (SD = 10.7 years). The mean score obtained in the GHQ-12 questionnaire was 13.69 points (SD = 3.86). Significant differences were found between levels of psychological distress and substance abuse (H = 14.085; P = .049), people who wished to stay in Spain (t = 6987; P = .049), people who experienced isolation due to COVID-19 contact (t = 1379.5; P = .001), people who needed medical assistance due to COVID-19 (t = 7.990; P = .018), and those who reported having chronic illnesses (t = 2686.5, P = .02). The mean score of psychological distress indicates general high levels of psychological distress. Participants who had experienced isolation due to COVID-19 contact, who consumed substances, and who had chronic illnesses reported the highest levels of psychological distress.

Psychological distress in healthcare workers during COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review

OBJECTIVES

Healthcare workers serving during the COVID-19 pandemic may have been exposed to high work overload, which may have had an impact on their physical, mental, and social health. The aim of this study was to assess the risk factors associated with psychological distress among healthcare workers serving during the COVID-19 pandemic from January 2020 to December 2022.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted based on the 2020 PRISMA statement. Articles were searched in the Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases.

RESULTS

A total of 59 articles were included in this systematic review. It was observed that the prevalence of psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic was high. Female sex, being a nurse, being young, living alone/being single, and having a chronic disease or psychiatric disorder history are the main risk factors at the personal level. Other occupational and pandemic-related factors such as having many years of work experience, the presence of COVID-19 symptoms and contact history, not enough sleep, having lower family support and limited social relationships, fear of infecting friends and family, having a reduced perception of protection by personal protective equipment, working on the frontline, and having longer service duration were found to be factors influencing the development of psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS

There are personal, interpersonal, and organizational risk factors that can lead to the occurrence of psychological distress among healthcare staff working during the COVID-19 pandemic.

[Influencia de las redes de apoyo sociofamiliares en el cuidado de las personas mayores dependientes: un estudio cualitativo.]

OBJECTIVE

Socio-family support networks (SFSN) are necessary for the care of dependent people. This study aimed to explore the types of support provided in the SFSN for dependent older people in the Aljarafe Health District-Sevilla Norte (Spain) from a gender perspective.

METHODS

A qualitative biographical study was carried out, based on semi-structured interviews. The sample size met the theoretical saturation criterion. A total of twenty-four people participated in the study, fifteen women and nine men. For the qualitative analysis of the content and discourse of the people interviewed, Grounded Theory was followed.

RESULTS

Four categories emerged corresponding to the types of support provided: cognitive, material, instrumental and emotional support. These categories corresponded to the prototypes that caregivers and patients built through the ideas and concepts they had about caring for dependent people. The different types of support provided reduced the discomfort of all members of the SFSN. Differences were evident in the speeches between men and women.

CONCLUSIONS

Caring continues to be an activity that women usually do. The types of support analyzed show that the existence of a network is a guarantee of care and the use of SFSN reduces the overload of the caregiver by being compensated with the other members of the network. Therefore, networks are a health protection factor for family caregivers.

Presenteeism and mental health of workers during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review

Background

A large number of workers attend work despite being ill. Attending work during sickness can have a number of consequences for the worker (e.g., worsening of physical and mental condition), for co-workers, and for the company, and for service users.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the factors influencing presenteeism and mental health of workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A systematic review following the PRISMA format was conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science (WoS), Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PsycInfo, and ScienceDirect electronic databases in January 2023, using the following key words: Presenteeism, Mental Health, and COVID-19. The eligibility criteria applied were original articles published in English, Spanish, French, German, and Portuguese, workers during the COVID-19 pandemic (data collection date: January 01, 2020 - January 01, 2023), and articles assessing at least one measure of presenteeism and mental health status. Methodological quality was assessed using the critical appraisal tools of the Joanna Briggs Institute. The followed protocol is listed in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) with code CRD42023391409.

Results

A total of 25 studies were included in this review recruiting a total of 164,274 participants. A number of factors influencing mental health and sickness presenteeism were identified: (1) mental health-related factors (burnout [in 4 studies], stress [in 9 studies], depression [in 1 study], fear of COVID-19 [in 1 study], no well-being [in 2 studies], etc.); (2) individual factors (health status [in 1 study], being young [in 1 study], workers who experienced interrupted medical care [in 2 studies], having a chronic disease [in 1 study], etc.); (3) factors related to the situation caused by COVID-19 (confinement, symptoms, loss of contract, risk of bankruptcy, etc. [in 1 study each one]); and (4) factors derived from working conditions (organisational support [in 1 study], patient care [in 1 study], work functioning or task performance impairment [in 4 studies], work fatigue [in 2 studies], safety climate [in 1 study], workload [in 1 study], etc.).

Conclusion

Identifying the key determinants of presenteeism and understanding the phenomena and origins of sickness presenteeism will help to create a safe working environment and optimal organisational systems to protect vulnerable workers in a pandemic context.

Systematic review registration

The unique identifier is CRD42023391409.

[Impacto de la covid-19 en el estrés, la ansiedad y la depresión en personas con Trastorno Obsesivo Compulsivo: una revisión sistemática.]

OBJECTIVE

The population's mental health has been compromised by a global pandemic, especially in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder. The objective of this study was to evaluate the levels of stress, anxiety and depression in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder during COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

A systematic review was carried out following the PRISMA format in the electronic databases Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, Dialnet and Medline between the months of January and May 2023. Method quality was assessed based on the critical evaluation tools for studies of the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI).

RESULTS

A total of twelve studies were included in this review. The mental health of the population has been compromised by the COVID-19 pandemic, with patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder being especially affected. Although there was a wide variability of results, it was observed that the level of stress and anxiety increased during the pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS

The mental health of patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder, especially washing machine patients, is compromised in times of pandemic, presenting medium-high levels of stress, anxiety and depression.

Stress, fear, and anxiety among construction workers: a systematic review

Objectives

The aim of this review was to assess the possible risk factors arising from working conditions, that could have an impact on the stress, fear, and anxiety of construction workers.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA format in the Pubmed, Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus, and PsycInfo electronic databases on February 3, 2023, using the following key words: anxiety, stress, fear, and construction workers. Methodological quality was assessed using the critical appraisal tools of the Joanna Briggs Institute.

Results

A total of 35 studies were included. The results showed a number of conditioning factors for stress, anxiety, and fear among construction workers such as age, inappropriate safety equipment, safety culture, high workload and long working hours, physical pain, low social support from direct supervisor or co-workers, lack of organizational justice and lack of reward, financial situation, maladaptive coping strategies, and characteristics of the pandemic.

Conclusions

There are a number of risk factors related to working conditions, organizations, and individuals that can affect the levels of stress, anxiety, and fear among construction workers, such as age, work hardship, safety culture and, especially, the long hours that construction professionals work. This may lead to an increase in the number of occupational accidents and higher associated fatality rates.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022367724, identifier: CRD42022367724.

[Sources used to obtain information on COVID-19 and its impact on mental health.]

With the rise of COVID-19, the society has had the need to search for information about the pandemic and the sources used to obtain information have been very diverse, with a greater predominance of social media, traditional media and consultation with loved ones. In addition, an excess of information has been observed in the media that made access and understanding difficult, as well as a constant concern and anxiety about health that caused a need to search excessively or repeatedly for information on health and disease. This information was not always endorsed by the scientific community and during the pandemic there has been the spread of misinformation, fake news and conspiracy theories about COVID-19 disseminated, mainly through social media. In this sense, both the knowledge and the beliefs apprehended have been able to impact the mental health of the population.

[Violence at work and work engagement against nursing professionals in Spain: a cross-sectional study.]

OBJECTIVE

Nurses are one of the groups most exposed to violence in the workplace. The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between violence at work and engagement in a sample of nurses in Spain.

METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in a national sample of Spanish nurses. A questionnaire was administered that collected the sociodemographic variables, the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-9) and an ad hoc scale on violence at work. The Mann-Whitney U test was performed as the statistical test with Bonferroni correction and the CHAID algorithm.

RESULTS

The sample consisted of a total of 1,648 active nurses. It was observed that 42.17% of them had personally suffered some type of aggression or violence in the workplace, verbal aggression being the most frequent. The results indicated that there was a negative association between work engagement and exposure to situations of violence at work.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a relationship between having suffered attacks and the degree of work engagement against nurses, hence the need to establish effective preventive and intervention policies to promote an adequate work environment, and therefore stop episodes of violence in their initial stages.

The impact of disease changes and mental health illness on readapted return to work after repeated sick leaves among Brazilian public university employees

Introduction

Health affects work absenteeism and productivity of workers, making it a relevant marker of an individual's professional development.

Objectives

The aims of this article were to investigate whether changes in the main cause of the sick leaves and the presence of mental health illnesses are associated with return to work with readaptation.

Materials and methods

A historical cohort study was carried out with non-work-related illnesses suffered by statutory workers of university campuses in a medium-sized city in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Two exposures were measured: (a) changes, throughout medical examinations, in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) chapter regarding the main condition for the sick leave; and (b) having at least one episode of sick leave due to mental illness, with or without change in the ICD-10 chapter over the follow-up period. The outcome was defined as return to work with adapted conditions. The causal model was established a priori and tested using a multiple logistic regression (MLR) model considering the effects of several confounding factors, and then compared with the same estimators obtained using Targeted Machine Learning.

Results

Among workers in adapted conditions, 64% were health professionals, 34% had had changes in the ICD-10 chapter throughout the series of sick leaves, and 62% had diagnoses of mental health issues. In addition, they worked for less time at the university and were absent for longer periods. Having had a change in the illness condition reduced the chance of returning to work in another function by more than 30%, whereas having had at least one absence because of a cause related to mental and behavioral disorders more than doubled the chance of not returning to work in the same activity as before.

Conclusion

These results were independent of the analysis technique used, which allows concluding that there were no advantages in the use of targeted maximum likelihood estimation (TMLE), given its difficulties in access, use, and assumptions.

Relationship Between Psychological Distress, Burnout and Work Engagement in Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review

Objective: The psychological distress that the COVID-19 pandemic has produced has generated negative effects on workers, and in one way or another this has affected their work engagement within companies. The aim of this research was to assess the relationship between psychological distress, burnout and work engagement in workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A systematic review was carried out following the PRISMA methodology, taking articles from the Scopus, Pubmed, and Web of Science databases from the beginning of the pandemic until November 2022. The methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tools for non-randomised studies. Results: 24 articles were selected. All the articles found an association between psychological distress, burnout or other factors and work engagement. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on work engagement and a negative relationship with psychological distress and burnout, hence the importance of companies taking measures to minimise levels of psychological distress and burnout.

Risk Factors for Working Pregnant Women and Potential Adverse Consequences of Exposure: A Systematic Review

Objective: To assess the risk factors perceived as stressors by pregnant women in the work environment and the possible adverse consequences of such exposure for the normal development of pregnancy. Methods: Systematic review, guided by the PRISMA guidelines, and using Pubmed, Web of Science, Dialnet, SciELO, and REDIB databases. Methodological quality was assessed using the critical appraisal tools for non-randomised studies of the Joanna Briggs Institute. Results: A total of 38 studies were included. The main risk factors found in the work environment of pregnant women were chemical, psychosocial, physical-ergonomic-mechanical factors, and other work-related factors. The main adverse consequences of exposure to these factors include low birth weight, preterm birth, miscarriage, hypertension and pre-eclampsia, as well as various obstetric complications. Conclusion: During pregnancy, working conditions that are considered acceptable in normal situations may not be so during this stage due to the major changes that occur during pregnancy. Many obstetric effects may have an important impact in the mother's psychological status; therefore, it is important to optimise working conditions during this stage and to reduce or eliminate possible risks.

Modulating factors of fibromyalgia in women during the COVID-19 pandemic: A protocol for systematic review

BACKGROUND

Fibromyalgia is a disease that affects mostly women and is related to stressors. The aim of this study was to assess how the Coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has affected women with fibromyalgia.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted in the PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Springer Link databases, following the recommendations of the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses statement. The methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools for non-randomized studies.

RESULTS

A total of 6 studies were included. Most results indicated a worsening in the mental health of women with fibromyalgia during the pandemic, and this in turn impacted on physical health.

CONCLUSION

The mental health of women with fibromyalgia was more affected during the Coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic period than that of non-fibromyalgia sufferers. This was also reflected in the worsening of symptoms and weakness in performing daily activities.

Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of rehabilitation area professionals: A systematic review

Background

The role of the physiotherapist is vital in the recovery of post-COVID-19 patients, but fear of contagion is a possible feeling among healthcare professionals. The objective of this study is to assess the mental health effects that COVID-19 has had on healthcare workers, including rehabilitation care, in times of pandemic.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted using the PRISMA format in the Pubmed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases between July and September 2022. Keywords included were "healthcare providers," "COVID-19," "Mental Health," and "Psychological Distress." Methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools.

Results

A total of 14 studies were included in this review. The study population was healthcare professionals including the rehabilitation services. In total, 4 studies reported exclusively on anxiety and stress levels in physiotherapists providing care during the pandemic.

Conclusions

The mental health of healthcare professionals has been compromised during the pandemic. However, initially, research was only focused on physicians and nurses, so the need arises to include those professionals, such as physiotherapists, who are also in direct contact with COVID-19 patients.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=367664, identifier: CRD42022367664.

Suicidal ideation and suicide attempts in healthcare professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review

Background

COVID-19 has caused a series of economic, social, personal, and occupational consequences that may affect the mental health of healthcare workers (HCWs), with the consequent risk of developing suicidal ideation and behaviors.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to identify the main risk factors that may predispose HCWs to suicidal ideation and suicide attempts during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A systematic review of studies published between January 2020 and August 2022 was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines in the following electronic databases: Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, and PsycINFO. Methodological quality was assessed using the critical appraisal tools for non-randomized studies of the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). The followed protocol is listed in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) with code CRD42022340732.

Results

A total of 34 studies were included in this review. There are a number of underlying factors such as higher rates of depression, anxiety, pre-pandemic lifetime mental disorders or previous lifetime suicide attempt, living alone, having problems with alcohol and/or other drugs, etc. that favor the emergence of suicidal tendencies and ideation in times of COVID-19. Similarly, the pandemic may have precipitated a series of factors such as economic concerns, assessing one's working conditions as poor, having family members or friends infected, changes in services or functions, and feeling discriminated against or stigmatized by society. Other factors such as age, sex, or type of healthcare worker show differences between studies.

Conclusion

Organizations should ensure the adoption of strategies and programmes for early detection of suicides as well as increased attention to the mental health of professions with a high workload.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO, identifier CRD42022340732.

Sense of Coherence in Healthcare Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Ecuador: Association With Work Engagement, Work Environment and Psychological Distress Factors

Objectives: The aim of this study was to test the association between the sense of coherence, work engagement, and psychological distress in healthcare workers in Ecuador during the first phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study in a sample of 803 healthcare professionals from all regions of Ecuador between 2 April and 17 May 2020. A self-administered questionnaire was used, which contained sociodemographic and work environment variables, the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-9), the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), and Sense of Coherence Scale (SOC-13). Results: The mean value of sense of coherence was M = 65.04; SD = 12.74; for work engagement, it was M = 39.36; SD = 10.53; and for psychological distress, M = 4.58; SD = 3.44. There is a positive correlation (p < 0.01) between the sense of coherence and work engagement, and a negative correlation with psychological distress. Conclusion: During the pandemic in Ecuador, healthcare professionals have suffered a major deterioration of their mental health. Sense of coherence has been associated with work engagement and psychological distress. They have perceived a worsening of the quality of care and working conditions compared to those existing before COVID-19.

Use of preventive measures, beliefs and information received about COVID-19 and their effects on mental health, in two stages of the pandemic in Colombia

BACKGROUND

Several studies have highlighted the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on both physical and mental health. The aim of this study is to analyse the effects on mental health in two phases of the COVID-19 pandemic (April 2020 and February 2021) in the population of Colombia.

METHODS

Observational, prospective, cross-sectional study along two periods, April 2020 and February 2021. The sample (N = 1309) was extracted from the Colombian population, only including individuals over the age of 18 and residing in Colombia during the pandemic. The IMPACTCOVID-19 questionnaire was used, previously validated in Spain and cross-culturally adapted to the Colombian population, which included sociodemographic data, use of preventive measures, information received and the Goldberg General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) for psychological distress (PD). Participants had to sign an informed consent before taking part in the investigation.

RESULTS

A higher level of PD was observed among women (M = 3.99, SD = 3.39) (p < .001), in those who lived without a partner (M = 3.83, SD = 3.47) (p = .036), and in those with a worse perception of health (M = 6.27, SD = 3.51) (p < .001). PD decreased in the second period from M = 3.99 (SD = 3.36) to M = 2.98 (SD = 3.30) (p < .001), coinciding with a higher use of preventive measures, less distress caused by COVID-19 and greater confidence in healthcare professionals and clinical structures. In the second period, the time spent in getting informed decreased, but the sources of information were the same, principally social media and official sources.

CONCLUSIONS

Better information on the effects and preventive measures to prevent the pandemic improves confidence in the health system and its professionals, reducing the level of PD. There is a need for quality information on social networks and an adaptation of telemedicine to address the pandemic effects on mental health.Key messagesPsychological distress (PD) decreased in February 2021, as compared to April 2020, due to a greater use of preventive measures against COVID-19, and the confidence on the recommendations made by health officials and professionals.Higher PD has been found in women and people who lived without a partner, in line with studies performed in other countries.The accessibility to quality information on the pandemic should be promoted by the Official Health Authorities, thus counteracting data that could be classified as "fake news".

Initial Psychometric Development of the Fear and Anxiety to COVID-19 Scale in Nursing Professionals: An Occupational Health Assessment Tool

Objective

The effects caused by COVID-19 on the physical and mental health show the need to renew and create tools that specifically measure the fear and anxiety caused by the pandemic in healthcare professionals. The aim of the study was to measure fear and anxiety of COVID-19 in the nursing population group using a specific assessment scale.

Methods

A descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out in Spain based on questionnaires. The sample was selected by non-probabilistic snowball sampling. Univariate and bivariate descriptive analyses were performed. For qualitative variables, a categorical regression analysis was performed.

Results

The sample consisted of 1012 nurses residing in Spain, 86.6% of whom were women, with a mean age of 40.84 years (SD = 11.51). The bivariate analysis revealed statistically significant differences in the mean score of the scale and the variables sex, level of education, m² of the dwelling, and work area.

Conclusion

The validation of this scale provides a new management tool that should enable managers to assess anxiety and fear among their nurses, whether in the current COVID-19 pandemic or in other possible epidemiological situations to come.

Measuring anxiety and fear of Covid-19 among older people: psychometric properties of anxiety and fear of Covid-19 scale (AMICO) in Spain

Background

The elderly population has proven to be a particularly vulnerable group with regard to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study was to study the psychometric properties of the Ansiedad y MIedo a Covid-19 scale (AMICO) on a population-based sample of elderly people.

Methods

A descriptive and psychometric cross-sectional study, based on questionnaires, was carried out. An exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis was performed, as well as a bivariate analysis between the different sociodemographic variables with respect to the total scale score.

Results

A sample of 720 adults over 65 years of age was obtained, 52.2% of whom were women. The structure of the factor of the scale showed two factors (fear and anxiety) and was confirmed with good fit parameters. The overall reliability of the scale in terms of internal consistency was α = 0.94.

Conclusions

The AMICO scale is a valid and reliable instrument to measure anxiety and fear of COVID-19 in the Spanish population over 65 years of age. Women and subjects with a partner showed the highest values of fear and anxiety.

Social Determinants of Health in the COVID-19 Pandemic Context of the Migrant Population Living in Settlements in Spain

Objectives: The aim of this study was to describe and evaluate the sociodemographic profile and assess the levels of anxiety and fear, work engagement, and psychological distress on a sample of migrants living in settlements in the province of Huelva (Spain) during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 623 migrants during the months of April to June 2021, based on the Anxiety and Fear of COVID-19 (AMICO) assessment scale, the 9-item Utrecht Work Engagement Scale to assess work engagement, and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) to analyse psychological distress.

Results: A low level of education, dwelling of less than 3 m² and the desire to return to the country of origin may be related to the presence of anxiety and fear of COVID-19 and lower levels of work engagement.

Conclusion: There is a need to improve the study of the concept of health of the migrant population residing in the settlements of Huelva (Spain) and the assessment of their physical and mental health, in an official way.

Body Image Dissatisfaction as a Risk Factor for Postpartum Depression

Background and Objectives: Pregnancy and postpartum are periods that imply numerous physical and psychological changes that could lead to mental health consequences. The aim of the present study is to identify whether women who had body image dissatisfaction had a higher incidence of postpartum depression 6 months after birth than women who did not have body image dissatisfaction. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was designed with a sample of 450 women from two hospitals in Andalusia. Quantitative variables were age and scores on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) for body image dissatisfaction. The qualitative variables used were marital status, self-perceived health status, diet or physical exercise, type of delivery, and others. Results: Body dissatisfaction was positively correlated with the symptomatology of postpartum depression. Thus, for each point increased in body dissatisfaction, the occurrence of depression also increased. There was a relationship between the study variables, so women who were more dissatisfied with their body image were more frequently depressed. Conclusions: In conclusion, it can be established that postpartum depression seems to be related to the presence of poor body image.

Satisfaction with the Care Received and the Childbirth and Puerperium Experience in Christian and Muslim Pregnant Women

Over the last three decades, there has been an increase in the population as a result of the migratory flow due to the arrival of migrants to Spain, including young women of childbearing age and with reproductive capacity. This phenomenon has made childbirth assistance an extremely important priority in recent years. The aim of this study was to assess the satisfaction and experience during childbirth and the postpartum period in pregnant women according to their religion after assistance in a tertiary hospital. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 242 women using the validated Spanish version of the Mackey Childbirth Satisfaction Rating Scale (MCSRS) to measure satisfaction with the childbirth experience during the months of January to April 2021. Statistically significant differences were found in the domains of birth satisfaction (p < 0.01), satisfaction with the obstetrician (p < 0.01), and perception of pain during labour (p < 0.01). The Christian group of women scored higher in these three domains as compared to the Muslim group. The rate of breastfeeding at birth was 5.26 times higher among the Muslim group compared to the Christian group (p = 0.02). The experience of childbirth and the puerperium significantly influenced the levels of satisfaction of pregnant women with the process of childbirth in a different way according to the religious culture of the patient.

[Mental health and mental disorders in the workplace.]

The work environment can be considered one of the main determining factors that can influence the mental health of workers, especially as regards the structural and organisational conditions to which the worker is subjected. This work environment has positive effects when work provides satisfaction and contributes to personal self-fulfilment, or negative effects provoked by situations of stress, inadequate working patterns and schedules, possible situations of abuse and/or harassment, etc., which may contribute to the appearance of alterations in the mental health of the worker. Therefore, it is crucial that organisations use strategies for mental health promotion and disease prevention in the workplace, as mental health problems arising from work represent a major burden of disease for society and the economy of a country. Stress can be considered one of the main factors capable of disrupting a person's mental health and determining the development of a mental disorder, but other individual, socio-cultural, organisational, biological, and environmental factors also play a role to a greater or lesser extent. A negative work situation can trigger the development of serious mental disorders such as psychotic, neurotic, or cognitive disorders, as well as those derived from work-related stress and psychoactive substance abuse, and self-injurious behaviours. For early detection, treatment, reintegration, and/or rehabilitation, coordination between the public health system and occupational health or occupational risk prevention services is necessary.

[Work, family and nurses perception about their own health: relationship with breast cancer and shift work.]

OBJECTIVE

Breast cancer is a commonly diagnosed disease in nurses that, from recent years, has been linked to shift work and night work. Also, different components of work stress have such an impact on the nurses' health and work, family and social conciliation. The objective of this research was to analyze the family and working characteristics of Spanish nurses who perform shift work (including night shifts) in search of possible associations with manifestations of psychosomatic stress and the risk of breast cancer.

METHODS

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted through a virtual questionnaire in a sample of 966 Registered Nurses in Spain between December 2019 and November 2020. A descriptive analysis of sociodemographic and occupational variables was performed, and statistically significant differences and associations were contrasted by estimating risks and confidence intervals.

RESULTS

The number of night shifts throughout life and the number of years worked were statistically significant for the association with breast cancer. In addition, other psychosomatic manifestations such as insomnia, palpitations or extreme tiredness were highlighted. Among the most appreciated aspects to generate job satisfaction, co-worker's relationship was underlined.

CONCLUSIONS

Rotating shift work can cause multiple clinical alterations that could lead to problems related to family conciliation, self-care or employment wellness. It is important to control the physical, psychological and emotional overload of nurses.

Implications of Lifestyle and Occupational Factors on the Risk of Breast Cancer in Shiftwork Nurses

Shift work that involves circadian disruption has been highlighted as a likely carcinogenic factor for breast cancer in humans. Also, unhealthy lifestyle habits observed in night work nurses could be causally related to an increase in the incidence of estrogen-positive breast tumours in this population. Assessing baseline risk of breast cancer in nurses is essential. The objective of this study was to analyze the risk of breast cancer that nurses had in relation to their lifestyle and labour factors related to shift work. A cross-sectional descriptive study through a questionnaire about sociodemographic variables, self-perception of health, and working life was designed. The sample consisted of 966 nurses. The relationship between variables was tested. A binary logistic regression and a classification and regression tree were performed. The most significant labour variables in relation to the risk of breast cancer were the number of years worked (more than 16 years; p < 0.01; OR = 8.733, 95% CI = 2.811, 27.134) and the total years performing more than 3 nights per month (10 or more years; p < 0.05; OR = 2.294, 95% CI = 1.008, 5.220). Also, the nights worked throughout life (over 500; OR = 4.190, 95% CI = 2.118, 8.287) were significant in the analysis. Nurses who had or ever had breast cancer valued their self-perceived health more negatively (p < 0.001) and referred a lower quality of sleep (p < 0.001) than the non-cases nurses. The occupational factors derived from night work could have several impacts on nurses' health and their family-work balance. Promoting healthy lifestyles, informing about shift work risks, and adjusting shift work schedules are critical methods to decrease the possible effects of circadian disruption in nurses.

[Predictive factors for burnout and work engagement levels among doctors and nurses: a systematic review.]

BACKGROUND

Healthcare professionals are often subjected to demanding working conditions, and both burnout and work engagement are psychological reactions that develop when personality traits interact with the characteristics of the work. The objective of this study was to analyse the factors that influence burnout and work engagement levels among healthcare professionals.

METHODS

A systematic review of articles published between January 2015 and October 2020 was conducted in the Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PsycINFO, and ScienceDirect electronic databases, following the PRISMA format. Methodological quality was assessed through the critical evaluation tools for non-randomised studies by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI).

RESULTS

A total of 27 studies were included in this review. Moderate levels of work engagement and low levels of burnout were observed among healthcare professionals. Job demands (work overload, shift type, negative events, type of service, etc.) and personal, situational, and organisational resources (psychological capital, social support, ability to express emotions, personal values, feeling self-fulfilled, among others) may be factors that influence work engagement and burnout levels.

CONCLUSIONS

The results provide implications for the design, assessment and effectiveness of workplace interventions towards reducing the risk of burnout and improving work engagement levels among healthcare professionals.

Design of Fear and Anxiety of COVID-19 Assessment Tool in Spanish Adult Population

The aim of this study was to develop a specific scale to measure anxiety and fear levels in the general Spanish population. For this, a transcultural adaptation to Spanish of the fear of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) scale, in its original version of 10 items, was carried out. Then, the Anxiety and Fear of COVID-19 Assessment Scale (AMICO, for its acronym in Spanish) was designed by translating the tool and Delphi technique into three rounds. Ten experts participated voluntarily, and inter-observer match rates and the reliability study of the designed scale were calculated. A pilot study was carried out with the final version of the scale for the validity and reliability study. The instrument did not raise problems in semantic and cultural terms during the first and second rounds of the translation process, with an overall weighted Kappa value of 0.9. In the third round, eight new items were designed and consensual, obtaining a weighted overall value of 0.89. The pilot study sample was made up of 445 subjects, of which 60.3% were women with a mean age of 46.2 years. The final version consisted of 16 items, 2 factors, and a Cronbach's alpha value of 0.92. The AMICO scale was developed to assess the level of anxiety and fear of COVID-19 and proved to be valid and reliable for its use in the adult Spanish population.

Work Engagement in Nurses during the Covid-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study

In some areas of Spain, health services and professionals working in the front line against the Sars-Cov-2 virus have been widely overwhelmed at all levels. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the level of work engagement of Spanish nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. A cross-sectional study was carried out. The sample consisted of 510 active nurses from all over Spain, without age exclusion, who voluntarily accepted to participate in the study. Work engagement was assessed with the 9-item Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES) questionnaire, through an online questionnaire and non-probabilistic snowball sampling. The results showed a mean age of 45.9 years (SD = 10.7 years), most of them women (78.1%), and 58.5% were in primary care. The mean score for the UWES-9 questionnaire was 4.6 points (SD = 1.35). The categorical regression analysis performed revealed an R2 value of 0.75 and a significance of p < 0.01 in the sex, type of unit, and training variables. The Spanish nurses in the sample present high levels of work engagement in all dimensions in general, although the lowest mean scores are found in the vigor dimension, among men, and nurses working in hospital and critical units.

Relationship Between Work Engagement, Psychosocial Risks, and Mental Health Among Spanish Nurses: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Exposure to risk factors may lead to health problems of varied nature and to an increased risk of suffering accidents at work. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the work engagement, psychosocial risks, and psychological well-being of Spanish nurses, analyzing existing relationships, and their associations with self-reported mental health problems of nurses. Methods: To this end, a cross-sectional observational study was carried out with a sample of 1,704 Spanish nurses between January 2019 and January 2020, using a self-administered questionnaire containing sociodemographic variables, the Spanish version of the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (CoPsoQ-istas21), the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-9), and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). Results: The Kruskal-Wallis test showed that nurses' perceptions for each of the tests significantly differed among different healthcare areas (p < 0.05). The results indicated that emergency nurses offered higher scores in all dimensions of the CoPsoQ-istas21 and GHQ-12 tests; and in primary care, nurses scored higher in all three dimensions of the UWES-9 test. In addition, self-perceived health and vigor at work were identified as predictive factors of mental health. Conclusions: A high percentage of Spanish nurses perceived a high level of psychosocial risk in the exercise of their duties and nearly 41% could suffer from some mental health-related problem. Primary Care nurses showed higher levels of work engagement and lower perception of psychosocial risks than Emergency nurses. Results may allow to identify a professional profile which is more likely to suffer from psychological distress, as both the working conditions and the work commitment expressed by nurses in their daily work are key elements in assessing the possible psychosocial risks to which they may be exposed.

Emotional Intelligence and Its Relationship with Emotional Well-Being and Academic Performance: The Vision of High School Students

Emotional intelligence skills in students may be related with physical and mental health, within and outside the academic field. Strengthening these skills can lead to greater overall well-being, lower use of substances, and improved academic performance, as well as reduced aggressive behaviours. The objective of this study was to analyse the levels of emotional intelligence (differentiating between the dimensions: emotional Attention, Clarity, and Repair) among high school students and examine its relationship with academic performance and emotional well-being, considering if there are differences between boys and girls and between different grades. A cross-sectional descriptive study was developed on a sample of 333 High School students using the Trait Meta-Mood Scale (TMMS) and KIDSCREEN-10 Index tools. Differences in emotional intelligence were observed between boys and girls for the three dimensions, and a relationship between emotional intelligence and student well-being was appreciated. No relationships were found between emotional intelligence and academic performance, nor have any differences been observed between the different courses analysed. It cannot be concluded that academic performance is related to emotional intelligence, but a relationship between well-being and emotional intelligence is found.

[Outpatient breech birth attendance.]

Nowadays, care for a breech delivery in the out-of-hospital environment through the vaginal route can be a frequent process caused by the change in the scientific literature favoring the free evolution of the delivery of a breech presentation compared to the previous literature where the Caesarean section scheduled at week 37 of gestation, avoiding its free evolution. Furthermore, among the statistical data consulted at the INE (Instituto Nacional de Estadística), there is an increase in preterm deliveries outside the hospital, which increases the presentation of buttocks more frequently, between 25-32 weeks, around 42%. Therefore, the objective of this manuscript was to instruct the health professionals of the out-of-hospital emergency services in the event of imminent delivery in breech presentation. This type of training would consist of maintaining an expectant attitude during the expulsion period until the lower angle of the newborn's scapula is visible, followed by manual assistance by detaching the shoulders while gently and slowly removing the fetal head.

Laryngeal tubes and laryngeal mask devices for supraglottic airway management in out-of-hospital emergency care: a systematic review

Various supraglottic devices are currently available for airway management and are used widely in emergency situations because they are easy to position. We undertook a systematic review of the literature comparing laryngeal tubes and various laryngeal mask airway devices (LMAs) to determine which ones can be used most efficiently in emergencies. Nine databases were searched, as follows: Cochrane Library Plus, MEDLINE, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature), Dialnet, Global Health, Nursing & Allied Health Database, CUIDEN, the Web of Science, and ScienceDirect. We collected studies published between 2014 and 2019 in Spanish, English, French, and Portuguese that compared laryngeal tubes to LMAs of different types for supraglottic airway management. Eighteen studies were selected for analysis after critical reading. Significant differences were not seen between tubes and LMAs with respect to most variables, but in certain contexts the oropharyngeal seal and speed of insertion were superior with laryngeal tubes; however, when fiberoptic bronchoscopes were then inserted the view of the glottis was poor. The different contexts in which these devices are used and the scarcity of studies comparing laryngeal tubes to LMAs does not allow us to identify clear differences among them with respect to efficiency. However, tubes seem to offer poorer visibility of the glottis according to evaluation with fiberoptic scopes, a factor to bear in mind if tracheal intubation, which is considered the gold standard, might become necessary.

[Ethical dimensions of prevention and planning in assisted-living facilities during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic (Covid-19): a public health emergency.]

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic (Covid-19) has had a major impact on residents of assisted-living facilities. While it is plausible that the characteristics of these patients and their special clinical fragility have contributed to their greater vulnerability to infection, other related factors cannot be ruled out, such as the quality of management at these centers and the lack of planning for actions taken before and during the health crisis. Both aspects pertain to the field of public health, where the ethics of the common good conflicts with the autonomy of the individual.

Alternatives to the Use of Mechanical Restraints in the Management of Agitation or Aggressions of Psychiatric Patients: A Scoping Review

Coercive measures are a highly controversial issue in mental health. Although scientific evidence on their impact is limited, they are frequently used. Furthermore, they lead to a high number of ethical, legal, and clinical repercussions on both patients, and professionals and institutions. This review aims to assess the impact of the main alternative measures to prevent or limit the use of coercive measures with restraints in the management of agitated psychiatric patients. The research was conducted following the guidelines recommended by PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) in Medline, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycInfo, LILACS, and Health Database of records between 2015 and 2020. After a critical reading, 21 valid articles were included. Both simple interventions and complex restraint programs were evaluated. Training in de-escalation techniques, risk assessment, and implementation of the “six core strategies” or “Safewards” program were the most assessed and effective interventions to reduce aggressive behaviors and the use of coercive measures. According to the revised literature, it is possible to reduce the use of restraints and coercive measures and not increase the number of incidents and violent behaviors among the patients through a non-invasive and non-pharmacological approach. However, further research and further randomized clinical trials are needed to compare the different alternatives and provide higher quality evidence.

[Impact of SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) on the mental health of healthcare professionals: a systematic review.]

BACKGROUND

In times of this global pandemic situation, population's mental health is compromised, especially in those groups that are at the forefront of defence against the virus such as healthcare professionals. The objective of this study was to analyze the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak on healthcare professionals' mental health.

METHODS

A systematic review was carried out following the PRISMA format in Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, PsycINFO and ScienceDirect electronic databases between January and May 2020. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tools for non-randomized studies.

RESULTS

A total of 13 studies were included in this review. Professionals' mental health and mental functions were compromised, being especially affected those professionals on the front line of battle against the virus. However, these stats were below the general population data. Although there is wide variability of results, medium-high levels of anxiety (26,5%-44,6%), depression (8,1%-25%), concern and insomnia are detected (23,6%-38%). Paradoxically, stress levels were below expectations (3,8%-68,3%).

CONCLUSIONS

The mental well-being of health professionals working on the front line is compromised in times of pandemic by presenting medium-high levels of anxiety, depression, nervousness and insomnia, and, to a lesser extent, stress.

[Digital surveillance tools for contact tracking of infected persons by SARS-CoV-2.]

BACKGROUND

In times of pandemic, case management and tracking people with contact can be differential elements for controlling the spread. The objective of this review was to evaluate the digital tools used to track contacts of people infected with SARS-CoV-2.

METHODS

A systematic exploratory review was conducted in the electronic databases Pubmed, Scopus and Web of Science on May 29, 2020 through the descriptors: coronavirus, digital surveillance and contact tracing. A total of 11 studies were finally selected.

RESULTS

The results showed that some countries are implementing digital tools for contact tracking through mobile apps that allow user data to be shared via the device's GPS and/or Bluetooth. The terms on the privacy and confidentiality of the population data are, in some cases, questionable.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of digital surveillance tools to track contacts of people infected with an infectious disease, such as SARS-CoV-2, can be key to reducing the number of people infected and reducing the spread of the virus.

[Systematic Review of the Reduction of Negative Emotional Effects in Emergency and Disaster Response Workers Through Catharsis Techniques]

AIM

To analyze catharsis techniques used with professionals assisting victims of emergencies and disasters.

METHODS

Systematic review carried out in seven bibliographic databases: MEDLINE-Pubmed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Scopus, PsycINFO, and other secondary sources, for articles published between 2008 and 2017, with the terms "catharsis", "emergencies", "debriefing" y "post-traumatic stress". Publication and selection biases were taken into account.

RESULTS

Five reviews met the study inclusion criteria. Distress and traumatic experiences following an emergency or disaster are very common among health professionals, with adverse repercussions at the physical, psychological and cognitive levels. Some authors find that debriefing offers an opportunity for emotional release and toreduce the impact of stress on the lives of emergency responders, acting as a support network where they can reconstruct their experiences, express their thoughts and feelings, and reduce the impact on their lives. For other authors, however, this technique is not always effective for all professionals and may lead to negative consequences.

CONCLUSIONS

Debriefing is a common intervention that promotes catharsis. However, there is considerable controversy over its implementation and effectiveness. This study identified a diversity of catharsis techniques applied to staff responding to emergencies and disasters.

[Systematic Review of the Reduction of Negative Emotional Effects in Emergency and Disaster Response Workers Through Catharsis Techniques]

AIM

To analyze catharsis techniques used with professionals assisting victims of emergencies and disasters.

METHODS

Systematic review carried out in seven bibliographic databases: MEDLINE-Pubmed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Scopus, PsycINFO, and other secondary sources, for articles published between 2008 and 2017, with the terms "catharsis", "emergencies", "debriefing" y "post-traumatic stress". Publication and selection biases were taken into account.

RESULTS

Five reviews met the study inclusion criteria. Distress and traumatic experiences following an emergency or disaster are very common among health professionals, with adverse repercussions at the physical, psychological and cognitive levels. Some authors find that debriefing offers an opportunity for emotional release and toreduce the impact of stress on the lives of emergency responders, acting as a support network where they can reconstruct their experiences, express their thoughts and feelings, and reduce the impact on their lives. For other authors, however, this technique is not always effective for all professionals and may lead to negative consequences.

CONCLUSIONS

Debriefing is a common intervention that promotes catharsis. However, there is considerable controversy over its implementation and effectiveness. This study identified a diversity of catharsis techniques applied to staff responding to emergencies and disasters.

[Anxiety in nurse midwives and non-specialist nurses in the Madrid health service (Spain)]

OBJECTIVE

We analyzed state anxiety and trait anxiety in a population of nurses specialising in gynecology and obstetrics (nurse midwives) and a group of generalist nurses.

METHODS

Cross-sectional descriptive study using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory questionnaire (STAI), administered to a group of non-specialist nurses (n=96) and nurse midwives (n=63) who practice in the Madrid Health Service of Spain.

RESULTS

State anxiety was similar in generalist nurses and in midwives (5,01±1,62 and 5,17±1,75, respectively). Levels of trait anxiety were lower in nurse midwives (3,46±1,58) than in the non-specialist group (4,36±2,84), with the latter presenting higher levels of habitual anxiety as a personality trait (p=0,013).

CONCLUSION

Nurse midwives may adapt better to the stress derived from their work than generalist nurses. This could be attributed to the greater training and safety that specialties provide for the development of nursing care functions.

[Advanced Practice Nursing in emergency care, a proposal for the change: Systematic review]

BACKGROUND

Advanced Practice Nursing is an unknown role in our country. The aim of the study is to show the results of this model in emergency services for its future implementation in the Spanish health system.

METHODS

Revisión sistemática de las bases de datos de The Cochrane Controlled, Web Of Science, Cinahl, Cuiden, LILACS, Guía Salud y Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Se utilizaron escalas validadas para la selección de 14 artículos finales, siguiendo el formato PRISMA.

RESULTS

Favourable results were observed, with maximum waiting times of 53 minutes and average time of stay of 45 minutes. There were less than 8% of cases of unexpected readmissions. Favourable results were also found regarding safety and patient satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS

The implementation of this figure could be beneficial for the improvement of the public health system, increasing the quality of care in terms of efficiency.