Saudi Med J
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To measure medication adherence among coronary artery disease (CAD) patients and identify sociodemographic factors that are medication adherence predictors. ⋯ Approximately 30% of the participants reported poor medication adherence. The number of cardiologist visits and the level of family support were 2 of the factors found to be associated with medication adherence.
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Multicenter Study
COVID-19 vaccine in hemodialysis patients: Time for a boost.
To evaluate anti-spike immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody levels of hemodialysis patients and correlate them with the patients' demographic data and to evaluate these patients' need for a coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) vaccine booster. ⋯ The results show a dose-dependent association between IgG antibody levels and the number COVID-19 vaccines received. The study highlights the need for booster COVID-19 vaccination for patients on hemodialysis.
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Observational Study
Integration of functional capacity to medically necessary, time-sensitive scoring system: A prospective observational study.
To evaluate 2 new modifications to medically necessary, time-sensitive (MeNTS) scoring systems integrating functional capacity assessment in estimating intensive care unit (ICU) requirements. ⋯ The 5-questionnaire M-DASI is easy to calculate and, when added to a triage score, is as reliable as the original DASI for predicting postoperative ICU requirements.
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Multicenter Study
Comparison of laboratory biomarkers for the prediction of in-hospital mortality and severity of acute pulmonary embolism: A multi-center study.
To assess the specificity and sensitivity of prognostic biomarkers in individuals diagnosed with acute pulmonary embolism (PE). ⋯ Multiple parameters have been implicated in the mortality and severity of PE. Our study revealed a statistically significant association between NLR, RDW, and PE mortality. These tests are easily accessible and may provide insights into the mortality associated with PE.
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Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) infection is still a threat to many healthcare settings worldwide. Clostridioides difficile epidemiology has changed over the last 20 years, largely due to the emergence of hypervirulent and antimicrobial-resistant C. difficile strains. ⋯ Moreover, the early detection of these infections and understanding their epidemiological behavior using accurate laboratory methods are the cornerstone to decreasing the incidence of C. difficile infection and preventing further spread. Although there is no consensus on the single best laboratory method for the diagnosis of C. difficile infection, the use of 2 or more techniques can improve diagnostic accuracy, and it is recommended.