Journal of Preventive Medicine Association of Thailand

Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis in a Radiologist: Case Report

Wisit Netirojjanakul, Arunrat Hinon, Jiraporn Champee — Sat, 31 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0700

A 53-year-old female radiologist at a provincial hospital presented with a 7-month history of dyspnea and chronic cough. She was investigated and diagnosed with hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP). She has worked in the radiology department at this hospital for the past 26 years and moved to a new building for 3 years. The building had visible molds on the ceiling, wall, and air conditioners. Indoor air quality assessment in the x-ray room, ultrasound room, and the x-ray reading room showed high relative humidity, 70.6%, 67.2%, and 80.3%, respectively, compared to the Department of Health standard of 50-65% humidity. Mold cultures from the ceiling showed multiple species of molds. The patient did not smoke, have any hobbies, or have pets. Her house was not adjacent to a farm or garden, which could cause HP. The conclusion from Nine Steps in Occupational Diseases Diagnosis might be work-related hypersensitivity pneumonitis. The literature reviews found no confirmed hypersensitivity pneumonitis in healthcare workers, and this disease was rare in Thailand, so we report a case of hypersensitivity pneumonitis of a radiologist at a provincial hospital.

Six Area of Worklife and Management to Prevent Burnout and Promote Greater Engagement of Work

Inthuon Hongsiri, Wiroj Jiamjarasransi — Sat, 31 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Areas of Worklife refer to the relationship between workers and their expectations or impressions of their work environment or various work scenarios. Mismatch between workers and these areas can affect their mental health and well-being at work that may leading to burnout syndrome. As a result, this article provides a review of the literature on the Areas of Worklife, including their origins and importance, meaning, evaluation features, and management advice to improve the harmonization of working-age population with their Areas of Worklife to prevent burnout syndrome and increase their engagement in their work.

ประเทศไทย พบชายชาวยุโรปเป็นฝีดาษลิง “สายพันธุ์ Clade 1B”

Surachai Chokkhanchitchai — Sat, 31 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0700

วันที่ 22 สิงหาคม 2567 ประเทศไทยยืนยันพบชายชาวยุโรปเดินทางมาจากทวีปแอฟริกาเป็นฝีดาษลิงสายพันธุ์ Clade 1B ถือว่าเป็นผู้ป่วยฝีดาษลิงที่วินิจฉัย Clade 1B รายแรกในประเทศไทย ผู้ป่วยเป็นชายชาวยุโรป อายุ 66 ปีเดินทางมาจากประเทศในแอฟริกาที่พบการระบาดของฝีดาษลิงสายพันธุ์ Clade 1B เข้าประเทศไทยเมื่อวันที่ 14 สิงหาคม 2567 จากนั้นวันที่ 15 สิงหาคม 67 ผู้ป่วยเริ่มมีอาการไข้ มีตุ่มขึ้นจึงเดินทางไปตรวจที่โรงพยาบาล แพทย์สงสัยโรคฝีดาษลิง สายพันธุ์ Clade 1B ขณะนี้กรมควบคุมโรค ได้ติดตามผู้สัมผัสหรือผู้ที่นั่งใกล้ผู้ป่วยดังกล่าวบนเครื่องบินจำนวน 43 ราย โดยมีทั้งคนไทยและชาวต่างชาติซึ่งต้องเฝ้าระวังติดตามอาการไปอีก 21 วัน

The Prevalence of Work Stress and Related Factors among Workers in an Auto-Part Manufacturing Factory

Panatda Tongkam, Soontorn Supapong — Sat, 31 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Objective: To study the prevalence of work stress and related factors among workers in an auto-part manufacturing factory. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 257 employees working in the Logistics & Sale Department, Engineering Department, and Production Department. The samples were selected by stratified and simple random sampling. The study was conducted from September to October 2023 using questionnaires including personal factors, work-related factors, and Thai JCQ-45. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multiple logistic regression analysis. Results: Most of the respondents were male, married, aged between 35 - 44 years, with work experience between 11 - 20 years. The prevalence of work stress was 30.74%. The factor associated with work stress among workers in an auto-part manufacturing factory were having underlying diseases (OR 0.05, 95% CI = 0.01-0.42), working in the engineering department (OR 0.27, 95% CI = 0.09-0.81), physical job demand (OR 2.60, 95% CI = 1.37-4.93) and social support (OR 0.34, 95% CI = 0.15-0.75) Conclusion: This study found that the proportion of work stress among employees at this factory was quite high at 30.74 percent. The work stress was related to personal factors, work factors, and psychosocial factors. This problem should not be overlooked. Therefore, the health surveillance program concerning work stress needs to be implemented in this factory.

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Occupational Contact Hand Dermatitis among Registered Nurse in Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital

Jakarin Apisuttisin, Sornwit Osothsinlp, Palachart Sukonthapirom Na Patthalung — Sat, 31 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Objective: The study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of occupational contact hand dermatitis among registered nurses at Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 295 registered nurses who worked directly with patients at Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital. Data were collected using a modified Nordic Occupational Skin Questionnaire (NOSQ-2002). Descriptive statistics were used to calculate the period prevalence and point prevalence of hand dermatitis, while inferential statistics were used to identify factors associated with hand dermatitis, including personal factors, allergy history, and occupational factors. Multiple logistic regression analysis was employed. Results: The period prevalence of hand dermatitis was 11.53%, while the point prevalence was 3.73%. Statistically significant (p-value < 0.05) factors associated with hand dermatitis were personal factors, history of atopic dermatitis (mOR = 3.14, p = 0.024), and occupational factors, washing hands with plain water more than 10 times per day (mOR = 2.98, p = 0.008). Conclusion: Nurses have a moderate prevalence of hand dermatitis. Identifying and preventing work-related factors could lead to future policy interventions in hospitals.

Occupational Stress “Jobs Demand – Control Theory” in High Risk Department Healthcare Workers at Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Hospital

Kasinee Kittiban — Sat, 31 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Objective: The purpose of this cross-sectional descriptive research was to examine occupational stressful situations in the high-risk department healthcare workers at Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Hospital. Methods: The samples com prised 69 employees working in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Hospital. Quantitative research data were collected using Thai version of the 45-item Karasek Job Content Questionnaire. The Cronbach’s alpha reliability all scales were over than 0.7. Descriptive data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. Results: The study found that the majority of the sample group experienced moderate levels of work-related stress. Most participants were in the “active” group, accounting for 84.06% of the sample, while 15.94% fell into the “high strain” category. High scores were observed in five areas: Job control (= 83.84, SD = 11.98), psychological job demand ( = 71.84, SD = 13.06), physical job demand ( = 75.60, SD = 19.66), job security ( = 93.39, SD = 7.72), and social support ( = 80.35, SD = 16.83). In contrast, the score for hazard at work was low ( = 47.23, SD = 11.02) Conclusion: The majority of the sample group experienced moderate levels of occupational stress, followed by high levels. It is recommended that, for employees experiencing high stress, management should consider designing jobs that balance job demands or responsibilities with decision-making authority to meet organizational goals. This approach can help prevent work-related stress and encourage employee engagement. Effective stress management contributes to efficient service quality and ensures patient safety.

Factors Relating Fall Prevention Behaviors among the Elderly: Case study in Khao Kaew Subdistrict, Sapphaya District, Chai Nat Province

Supranee Taykerd, Wisut Nochit, Paisan Khunvised, Ansuree Sirisophon — Sat, 31 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Objective: This study was aimed to investigate the factors related to fall prevention behaviors among the elderly in Khao Kaew Subdistrict, Sapphaya District, Chai Nat Province. Method: It was correlation studies. The populations were 101 people aged 60 and above, experienced falling in the past 6 months. The questionnaire was used as research tools for data collection consisting of six parts: demographic data; health literacy of fall prevention; health beliefs; fear of falling and fall prevention behaviors. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics including percentage, mean, and standard deviation. Chi-square test was used in relation analysis. Result: The finding showed that fall prevention behaviors of the elderly was at the high level. The factors associated with fall prevention behaviors consisted of health literacy of fall prevention and perceived severity of fall (p < .05). Conclusion: Theses finding can use as basic information for the health personnel to continually increase the effectiveness of fall prevention among the elderly.

Developing a Health Service Network for Homebound and Bedridden Older People

Orapan Prompa, Ajcharapan Kayadee — Sat, 31 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Objective: To develop a health service network system for the elderly, homebound, and bedridden patients in Nongkhayang District, Uthai Thani Province. The secondary objectives are to study the current situation and problems, develop the system, and evaluate the health service network system for these groups of elderly patients. Methods: This study aimed to develop a health service network for homebound and bedridden older people, focusing on the care model for head injury patients undergoing cranial surgery. Using action and operational research with the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle, the study involved collaborative planning, implementation, evaluation, and improvement across three phases: Preparation, Implementation, and Evaluation, from August to December 2023. Results: Phase 1 (Preparation) revealed that older people, mainly females aged 85-94, required daily assistance despite stable health indicators, with caregivers, primarily grandchildren, lacking sufficient knowledge in elderly care. Phase 2 (Implementation) The model development resulted in 5 activity plans. Post-implementation, the user group showed significantly increased knowledge about elderly care, personal motivation for caregiving, and social support compared to pre-implementation (p < .05) in all aspects. Phase 3 (Evaluation) indicated high user satisfaction with the collaborative model, particularly in home visit services. Conclusion: The study concluded that most homebound and bedridden older people had chronic diseases requiring continuous care, highlighting the need to strengthen community health volunteers' roles and foster collaboration among healthcare personnel, families, and communities to enhance the quality of life for these older people

The Association Between Long-Term Exposure to PM2.5 and Blood Pressure Levels among Military Personnel in Thailand: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Sat, 31 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Background: Currently, the world is facing health problems due to PM_2.5fine particulate matter, particularly with regard to blood pressure. In Thailand, there has been an increasing number of studies, although many of them are cross-sectional in nature. Objective: To investigate the relationship between (1) "baseline PM_2.5levels," (2) "changing PM_2.5levels," and blood pressure levels among Thai army personnel. Method: Data analysis was conducted using multilevel mixed-effects models with a total sample of 40,984 individuals. Result: Controlling for population characteristics, health behaviors, and meteorological attributes, "baseline PM_2.5levels" per 1 µg/m³ showed a statistically insignificant association with blood pressure levels. However, when considering "changing PM_2.5levels" per 1 µg/m³, a significant relationship was found with both systolic blood pressure (β 0.91 mmHg, 95% CI; 0.76, 1.06) and diastolic blood pressure (β 0.60 mmHg, 95% CI; 0.48, 0.71), as well as mean arterial pressure (β 0.70 mmHg, 95% CI; 0.59, 0.81). Conclusion: the impact of PM_2.5levels on blood pressure was more pronounced when considering individual-level changes in PM_2.5, compared to area-level PM_2.5levels, among Thai army personnel.

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Work-Related Low Back Pain among Healthcare Personnel with Patient Manual Handling

Jirateep Chobtamkit, Shewarat Prasan — Sat, 31 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Objective: To determine the prevalence and associated factors of work-related low back pain among healthcare personnel who are involved in patient transfer. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital. The study sample includes a total of 158 healthcare personnel who are involved in patient transfer, divided into three departments: the transfer department, the critical care unit, and the semi-critical care unit. Data was collected using a modified questionnaire based on the Standardized Nordic questionnaire, which inquired about musculoskeletal symptoms. Additionally, the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) was used to assess the level of musculoskeletal disorder during their work activities. Results: The prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in the lower back which occurred within the past 7 days and 6 months was 51.3% (95% CI 43.2-59.3) and 52.5% (95% CI 44.4-60.5), respectively. When assessing working posture using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment or REBA tool, it was found that most participants had a high risk. The daily average number of patient transfers and the daily frequency of patient transfers were statistically associated with work-related low back pain within the past 7 days (Odds ratio 1.84, 95% CI 1.41-2.39 and 1.10, 95% CI 1.03-1.18, respectively). Furthermore, leisure activities that involve object handling were statistically associated with work-related low back pain within the past 6 months (Odds ratio 2.03, 95% CI 1.01-4.10). Conclusion: Patient transfer workshops should be organized for healthcare personnel by providing knowledge and skills in safe patient transfer. Limiting hours spent on patient transfer or increasing the number of healthcare personnel per shift can reduce the duration and frequency of patient transfer per day. The worker should avoid hobbies that involve object handling. If necessary, there should be education about the appropriate way to handle an object.

Evaluation of a Measles Surveillance System According to Measles Elimination Goal, Narathiwat Province, 2017-2018

Rusmanira Khwankerd, Winai Rattanasuwan, Sopon Iamsirithaworn — Sat, 31 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Objective: This study aims to assess a measles-based surveillance system based on quantitative measles elimination programs, including sensitivity, positive predictive value, data accuracy and timeliness and to evaluate the results of the measles surveillance system according to the measles elimination goal and indicators such as laboratory confirmation not less than 80% and the investigation of aกll suspected patients within 48 hours. Methods: This study is a Cross-sectional study. By study information from the measles online database and information from the medical records of patients at the hospital in Narathiwat Province, 2 locations both in the outpatient and inpatient departments who received treatment in the hospital from January 1, 2017 – December 31, 2018. Results: In this study, there was a report of 308 patients who had fever with rash or the patients suspected of measles or rubella. There were 86.4% with measles surveillance definition and 13.6% were not defined. Sensitivity was 27.8%. Positive predictive value was 100.0%. Data accuracy of gender, age, occupation, type of patients, address during onset, fever onset date, rash onset date, primary diagnosis by doctor, date of diagnosis, date of report, date of investigation and laboratory confirmation were 97.3, 98.6, 91.9, 91.9, 90.5, 91.9, 79.7, 98.6, 83.8, 95.9, 98.6 and 97.3%, respectively. Timeliness was 91.4%. Laboratory diagnosis was 27.1%. Disease investigation in all suspected patients within 48 hours was 29.7%; more than 48 hours was 4.5%, and without investigation was 65.8% Conclusion: Sensitivity was at a level that needed improvement, while the positive predictive value was good. Most data variables showed good accuracy, except for rash onset date. Timeliness of reporting was good. Laboratory confirmation was less than 80%, which is at a level requiring improvement. Disease investigation within 48 hours for suspected cases is emphasized.