SM Journal of Family Medicine

Archive Articles

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Out of the Woods”: Perspectives of Caregivers of Adult Children with CHARGE Syndrome

CHARGE syndrome is complex genetic condition that affects approximately 1 in 8,500 to 10,000 newborns worldwide. Individuals living with CHARGE syndrome frequently face significant physical challenges from birth, requiring managed medical and developmental assistance. Many of these individuals are cared for by family caregivers who often report elevated levels of stress. However, as children with CHARGE Syndrome get older, their medical complications often subside. With the resolution of many of their medical complications, it is possible the experiences of these caregivers may be different than the experiences of caregivers for younger children with this condition. The purpose of this study was to determine the quality of life of caregivers of older (18 years and older) individuals with CHARGE Syndrome. A total of seven family caregivers of adult children living with CHARGE syndrome participated in this study. Transcripts from these semi-structured interviews were analyzed using qualitative description methodology. The following four themes emerged from the qualitative interviews: (1) Reshaping Identity and Autonomy, focusing on how caregiving transforms parents’ sense of self and freedom; 2: Emotional Resilience and Coping, highlighting the strategies parents use to manage stress and maintain wellbeing; 3: Systemic Barriers and Support, addressing the challenges with formal systems and reliance on informal networks, and 4: Child’s Health Profile and Responsibilities, detailing the specific medical complexities and daily caregiving demands. The coping strategies and unique approaches to managing difficult times that caregivers in this study described can be helpful to specialists and parent groups as they navigate CHARGE syndrome.

Afeez A. Hazzan1*, Pamela Beach2, Lauren Lieberman3, Samantha Leung2 and Nicole Ness2


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Clinical Therapeutics: In Which Patients with COPD Should Ensifentrine be Added to Standard Therapy?

Despite advances in inhaled bronchodilator therapy, many patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) remain symptomatic and experience activity limitation despite appropriate use of long-acting β?-agonists (LABAs), Long-Acting Muscarinic Antagonists (LAMAs), and Inhaled Corticosteroids (ICS).

Alejandro Chapa-Rodriguez*, MD; Tark Abou-Elmagd, MD; Hafiz Sarwar, MD


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Factors Impacting on Solid Health Care Waste Generation Rate amongst Health Facilities in Ethiopia

Background: Solid healthcare waste management is a critical aspect of healthcare infrastructure and public health. It includes materials generated in healthcare facilities, laboratories, and research settings that may pose a threat to public health or the environment.

Aim: The purpose of this study is to assess solid health care waste generation and management toward developing guidelines.

Setting: All health facilities and workers in Hossaena town were participated.

Method: Mixed-method study design was used. Qualitative and quantitative samples were taken from the same population. Data were analysed by using relevant statistical tools. Open-ended responses and focused group findings were undertaken by quantifying and coding the data to provide a thematic narrative explanation.

Result: 540 completed questionnaires were collected from 41 health facilities. Health care waste segregation practice was not implemented in 78% of the health facilities. The qualitative observation asserted that inappropriate segregation practice was observed in 98.3% of waste containers. Lack of awareness and commitment are the main causes. Hand washing facilities are not available for 96.4% of the facility workers. 97.56% of infectious wastes were collected daily. Pre treatment of SHCW before disposal was not practiced. Incinerations are the main method of disposal.

Conclusions: 97.56% of the health facilities were not using colour coded waste bins. Lack of knowledge, absence of training, lack of vaccinations, and inappropriately constructed incinerators are the leading causes of inappropriate SHCWMP.

Contribution: This study provided general information on health care waste generation and management practice for policy makers and health service officials

Yeshanew Ayele Tiruneh1*, Modiba Lebtisi2, and Zuma Sibusiso2


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