NepMed Repository :: Browsing by Author "Shrestha, B"

Browsing by Author "Shrestha, B"

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A Cross-Sectional Study of Medication Adherence Pattern and Factors Affecting the Adherence in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
(Kathmandu University, 2015) Shrestha, R; Pant, A; Shakya Shrestha, S; Shrestha, B; Gurung, RB; Karmacharya, BM
ABSTRACT Background Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is considered as a major health problem, associated with mortality and morbidities. Various disease management strategies have been established to optimize patient’s longevity and functional status where patient adherence to the prescribed treatment plays a key role. Poor adherence to medication is common among COPD patients and is affected by number of factors like number of medicines, delivery devices and patient-related factors. Objective This study aims to investigate the adherence pattern in the management of COPD and factors affecting patient adherence to the prescribed treatment. Method This study is a cross-sectional study which was conducted in a tertiary care hospital. Those patients suffering from COPD of all age were enrolled in this study and prior informed consent was obtained from patients. The structured questionnaire was used to interview those patients. Result Total 100 patients were enrolled in this study, among which most patients (45%) were of age groups 60-70 years. Unintentional non-adherence to medication attributed for 65% of patients and the major reason was forgetfulness (52.3%). Most patients had discontinued the medication due to experience of side effects (63.3%). The result showed significant association between adherence and polypharmacy (p=0.00). However, there was no significant association between adherence and age, sex, mode of administration of drugs, technics to use delivery devices etc. Conclusion Majority of COPD patients were elderly (mean age= 68.4 years). Forgetfulness was associated with medication non-adherence. Most of the patients had discontinued medication because of side effects. Polypharmacy is one of the major factors associated with non-adherence to medication in COPD. KEY WORDS Adherence, COPD, Dhulikhel Hospital, non-adherence, polypharmacy
Abnormal Venous Dilatation other than Typical Varicose Vein, Rare Encounters
(Kathmandu University, 2018) Karmacharya, RM; Shrestha, B; Shrestha, BK; Devbhandari, M; Tuladhar, SM; Hodde, A; Thermann, F
ABSTRACT Varicose vein, one of the common vascular illnesses is usually a disease in lower limb. This is due to reflux of blood from deep venous system to superficial venous system. Rarely, this disease can also happen in veins in different location. Four such rare encounters are mentioned in this case series. KEY WORDS Superficial veins, Unconventional sites, Varicose vein
Alarm Fatigue among Nurses Working in Critical Care Setting in a Tertiary Hospital, Nepal
(Kathmandu University, 2023) Regmi, B; Shrestha, B; Khanal, S; Moktan, S; Byanju, R
ABSTRACT Background Alarm fatigue is a well-recognized patient safety concern in critical care settings. It occurs when nurses become overwhelmed by the total number of alarm signals which can result in alarm desensitization and eventually contributes to missing of serious and important changes in a patient’s condition, thus failing to respond properly. Objective To find out alarm fatigue and its associated factors among nurses working in critical care setting. Method A cross-sectional study design with convenient sampling technique was used to select 56 nurses working at different critical care settings in Dhulikhel Hospital. A self- constructed semi structured questionnaire and nurses alarm fatigue questionnaire was used for the survey. Frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation were used for descriptive statistics whereas Independent t-test and One-way ANOVA were used for inferential statistics. Result The result shows that more than half of the nurses were less than 25 years, single and more than two-third of the participants worked in Adult Intensive Care Unit. Out of total obtainable score 44, the overall mean score of the Alarm Fatigue was 28.03±12.813. The result showed that there was no significant difference between alarm fatigue and selected socio-demographic and work related characteristics. Conclusion The alarm fatigue among nurses working in critical care settings was found to be higher in this study. Since alarm fatigue is directly related to patients’ safety, the effective management of medical device alarms can reduce alarm fatigue and prevent potentially dangerous outcomes. KEY WORDS Alarm fatigue, Critical care settings, Nurses
Analysis of Consecutive Open Surgeries for Varicose Vein at Dhulikhel Hospital
(Kathmandu University, 2014) Karmacharya, RM; Shakya, YR; Shrestha, B
ABSTRACT Background Varicose veins are prominent dilated veins in the lower limb primarily due to disease in the junction between superficial and deep venous system. Operative treatment of such condition significantly improves quality of life and also demonstrably decreases the potential complications. We present with analysis of fifty one consecutive open surgeries for varicose vein at Dhulikhel Hospital. Objective To analyze consecutive open surgeries for varicose vein in terms of gender, age, presenting complaints, findings and post operative outcomes. Method All the cases posted for open surgeries for varicose vein at Dhulikhel Hospital during September 2012 – July 2013 were included. If great saphenous vein in thigh was more than 3 mm, segmental stripping was done. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS version 13.0. Result There were 51 cases with 47%male and 53% female. Mean age was 48.9 years. Prominent dilated vein was the most common presenting complaints. Incompetent saphenofemoral junction was present in 68.6% cases. Segmental stripping was done in 51% cases. Mean days of admission was 2.6 days. Mean pain free day was on 3.2 days. In an average, patient were able to walk normally in 4.1 days. Analysis of hospital admission days, ability to walk normally and pain free day attained in between stripping required and stripping not required group showed significant difference with higher values in stripping required group. Conclusion Although conventional stripping surgery has long been performed for varicose vein, this is associated with prolonged hospital admission, prolonged time required for ability to walk normally, and prolonged time taken for pain free status. Hence newer modalities of treatment like radiofrequency ablation is warranted in our setup too. KEY WORDS Saphenofemoral junction, stripping surgery, varicose vein
Anthropometrically Determined Undernutrition among the Adolescent Girls in Kathmandu Valley
(Kathmandu University, 2015) Shrestha, B
ABSTRACT Background No information exists regarding the health of the adolescent girls residing in Kathmandu valley in urban setup. Objective To evaluate the prevalence of undernutrition among the adolescent girls living in Kathmandu valley. It also aims to know the distribution of weight, height and body mass index of adolescent girls in relation to the different adolescent age groups. Method A cross sectional study was conducted in one government and two private schools in Kathmandu valley from 16th April to 15th September 2010. Anthropometric measurements were recorded using standardized methodology as recommended by World Health Organization (WHO). Standard operational definitions like percentiles, mean, standard deviation and proportions were used for analysis. Result Four hundred adolescent girls were enrolled randomly, out of which 111 girls (27.8%) were from government school and 289 girls (72.2 %) were from private schools. Maximum were of 16 years of age and the least were of 19 years of age, mean age being 15.4 years of age. Of them, early, mid and late adolescents were 41%, 35% and 24% respectively. Around one third of the study population were stunted (32%), one fourth were underweight (24%) and one tenth of them were thin (9.5%) based on National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS )standard. Both underweight and stunted girls were significantly more during the late adolescence period (P<0.001). However, thinness was not significant in any of the three adolescent age groups. Conclusion A high prevalence of undernutrition in terms of stunting, underweight and thinness exists among the adolescent girls in Kathmandu valley. KEY WORDS Adolescent girls, Kathmandu valley, undernutrition
Anxiety and Depression during COVID-19 Pandemic among Medical Students in Nepal
(Kathmandu University, 2020) Risal, A; Shikhrakar, S; Mishra, S; Kunwar, D; Karki, E; Shrestha, B; Khadka, S; Holen, A
ABSTRACT Background Medical students’ psychological response to societal lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic has not been studied much. Objective To assess levels of anxiety and depression among medical students during initial stages of COVID-19 pandemic in Nepal and relate their distress to relevant variables. Method A cross-sectional study with online questionnaire was conducted among medical students at different colleges in Nepal. Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) detected ‘anxiety’ and ‘depression’. The covariates were explored by logistic regression analyses. Result A total 416 medical students [mean age: 22.2 (2.1); males 57.7%, females 42.3%] participated. HADS-anxiety scores [mean: 7.1(4.3)] were significantly and positively correlated with HADS-depression [mean: 5.9 (4.1)] (r=0.695; p < 0.001). Point prevalence of total HADS caseness (HADS-T) was 26.7%. Specific HADS-defined caseness were: anxiety (HADS-A) 11.8%, depression (HADS-D) 5.5%, and comorbid anxiety and depression (HADS-cAD) 9.4%. All four types of caseness were significantly more prevalent among students with a history of mental problems (AOR=4.7, 3.2, 2.6, and 3.2 respectively). HADS-T was higher among those with a concurrent physical illness (AOR=2.4). HADS-T, HADS-A and HADS-D scores were higher among the age group > 22 years (AOR= 2.2, 2.5 and 4.4 respectively). HADS-cAD was almost three- times higher among those with a possible COVID-19 exposure (AOR=2.8). Conclusion A significant number of medical students in Nepal suffered from high levels of anxiety and depression during the COVID-19 shut-down. The students in the higher (> 22 years) age group, those with past mental disorders, possible COVID-19 exposure, and concurrent physical illness showed elevated levels of anxiety and/or depression. KEY WORDS COVID-19, Medical students, Pandemic, Psychological distress, Self-quarantine
Awake Fiberoptic Intubation in Cervical Spine Injury: A Comparison between Atomized Local Anesthesia versus Airway Nerve Blocks
(Kathmandu University, 2018) Singh, J; Shakya, S; Shrestha, B; Subedi, B; Singh, PB
ABSTRACT Background In cooperative patients with cervical spine injury, awake fiberoptic intubation is an excellent option for elective and semi urgent situations. It allows documentation of neurologic examination before and after intubation and surgical positioning. We have compared anesthesia of airway by nerve block and the local anesthesia atomizer undergoing awake fiberoptic intubation in cervical spine injury patients, in terms of the intubation time and discomfort. Objective To compare the intubation time and discomfort in patient with cervical spine injury with anticipated difficult airway potential to aggravate pre-existing injury undergoing awake fiberoptic intubation, based on cough and gag scores, between anesthesia of airway by (transtracheal and bilateral superior laryngeal) nerve block with local anesthetic agent and the local anesthesia atomizer. Method After institutional ethical approval and having informed written consent, 30 patients scheduled for elective surgery who require awake fiberoptic intubation, were included in the study. Patients were allotted by computer-generated random series into two groups; Group N received nerve block (transtracheal and bilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve block) and Group A received atomized lignocaine. Result The time taken for awake fiberoptic intubation was significantly lower in nerve blocks group as compared with the atomizer group [Group N: 90.2±11.7secs and Group A: 210.4±10.6 secs (p=0.041)]. Atomizer group had an increased coughing and gagging episodes than nerve block group [Group N: one patient, Group A: 11 patients (p=0.006)]. Ease of intubation and patient comfort were significantly better in nerve block group. Demographic and hemodynamic parameters were comparable in the two groups. Conclusion The nerve blocks (bilateral superior laryngeal and transtracheal recurrent laryngeal) provides adequate airway anesthesia, lesser patient discomfort, and faster intubation to aid in awake fiberoptic intubation in patients with anticipated difficult airway as compared to topical anesthesia using atomizer. KEY WORDS Awake fiberoptic intubation, Cervical spine injury, Laryngeal nerve block, Local anesthetic
Causes of stillbirths and neonatal deaths in Dhanusha district, Nepal: A verbal autopsy study
(Kathmandu University, 2010) Manandhar, SR; Ojha, A; Manandhar, DS; Shrestha, B; Shrestha, D; Saville, N; Costello, AM; Osrin, D
Abstract Background: Perinatal (stillbirths and first week neonatal deaths) and neonatal (deaths in the first 4 weeks) mortality rates remain high in developing countries like Nepal. As most births and deaths occur in the community, an option to ascertain causes of death is to conduct verbal autopsy. Objective: The objective of this study was to classify and review the causes of stillbirths and neonatal deaths in Dhanusha district, Nepal. Materials and Methods: Births and neonatal deaths were identified prospectively in 60 village development committees of Dhanusha district. Families were interviewed at six weeks after delivery, using a structured questionnaire. Cause of death was assigned independently by two pediatricians according to a predefined algorithm; disagreement was resolved in discussion with a consultant neonatologist. Results: There were 25,982 deliveries in the 2 years from September 2006 to August 2008. Verbal autopsies were available for 601/813 stillbirths and 671/954 neonatal deaths. The perinatal mortality rate was 60 per 1000 births and the neonatal mortality rate 38 per 1000 live births. 84% of stillbirths were fresh and obstetric complications were the leading cause (67%). The three leading causes of neonatal death were birth asphyxia (37%), severe infection (30%) and prematurity or low birth weight (15%). Most infants were delivered at home (65%), 28% by relatives. Half of women received an injection (presumably an oxytocic) during home delivery to augment labour. Description of symptoms commensurate with birth asphyxia was commoner in the group of infants who died (41%) than in the surviving group (14%). Conclusion: The current high rates of stillbirth and neonatal death in Dhanusha suggest that the quality of care provided during pregnancy and delivery remains sub-optimal. The high rates of stillbirth and asphyxial mortality imply that, while efforts to improve hygiene need to continue, intrapartum care is a priority. A second area for consideration is the need to reduce the uncontrolled use of oxytocic for augmentation of labour. Key words: Stillbirth, neonatal death, verbal autopsy, Nepal.
Chest Trauma Requiring Admission: Differences in Earthquake Victims and other Modes of Injury
(Kathmandu University, 2018) Karmacharya, RM; Devbhandari, M; Tuladhar, S; Shrestha, B; Acharya, P
ABSTRACT Background The April 25, 2015 Nepal earthquake (7.8 Richter scale) followed by May 12, 2015 major aftershock (7.3 Richter scale) killed more than 9,000 people and injured more than 23,000 people. Dhulikhel Hospital situated at Kavre district of Nepal encountered major bulk of Earthquake victims residing at Sindhuplanchowk, Kavre and Dolakha districts during subsequent earthquake events. Objective To distinguish any significant differences in hospital admitted Earthquake and non- Earthquake chest trauma cases. Method Retrospective study was done comparing earthquake with non-earthquake chest trauma cases admitted in Dhulikhel Hospital. Study included parameters like mode of injury, time taken to reach health center, symptoms at presentation, involvement of chest area, presence and site of rib fracture, presence of hemothorax or pneumothorax, spectrum of treatment required, hospital admission days. Result There were total 23 earthquake victims of which 14 (61%) were female and rest of 9(39%) were male whereas out of total 95 non earthquake cases 23(24%) were female and 72 (76%) were male (p< 0.01). Mean age in earthquake victims was 53.73 (SD 18.33, range 19-84) while non earthquake cases was 46.83(SD 16.53, range 11-90), (p >0.05). Major mode of injuries in earthquake victims was hit by objects (82.60%) followed by fall (17.4 %). Incidence of rib fractures was 69.56% in earthquake victims and 85.26 % in non earthquake cases with average of 2-3 ribs in both cases (p>0.05). There was higher rates of pneumothorax in earthquake victims (52.17%) compared to non earthquake cases (30.52%), (p<0.05). There wasn’t evidently major differences in incidence of pulmonary contusion, hemothorax and surgical emphysema. The mean duration of hospital admission days in earthquake victims was 7.78 days while non earthquake cases was 5.04 days (p >0.05). The total number of patients requiring chest tube insertion in earthquake victims was 16(69.56%) while that was 29(30.52 %) in non earthquake patients (p <0.01). Conclusion There was preponderance of female gender in earthquake related cases compared to non earthquake cases. Incidence of rib fracture was higher in earthquake victims. In earthquake victims, higher proportion of patient required chest tube drainage compared to non earthquake cases. KEY WORDS Chest trauma, Earthquake, Pneumothorax, Rib fracture
Clinical Characteristics of Cataract Patients and Outcome of Cataract Surgery in Tertiary Care Hospital in Central Nepal
(Kathmandu University, 2022) Shrestha, A; Shrestha, P; Shrestha, T; Makaju Shrestha, R; Shrestha, B; Poudel, L; Shrestha, JK
ABSTRACT Background Cataract remains the leading cause of avoidable blindness in low-income countries such as Nepal. Despite the availability of surgical interventions for cataract in leading institutions, still a large number of patients from remote areas delay or have difficulty in getting treatment, present late or with complications. Objective To determine the clinical characteristics and visual outcome of patients undergoing cataract surgery in Tertiary Care Hospital in Central Nepal. Method We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 138 patients who underwent cataract surgery at a tertiary care hospital from January 2018 to September 2022. R version 4.0.3 was used for the data analysis. Categorical variables are presented as frequency (percentages) and the numerical ones are presented as mean (standard deviation). Result During follow-up visits between one to three weeks, 91.9% out of 135 patients had normal/near normal presenting visual acuity and with best correction it was 96.9% out of 131 patients. About 1.6% out of 124 operated eyes still had moderate visual impairment after best correction when they visited for follow-up at 12 weeks. Conclusion The study findings underline the ongoing gap in increasing access to cataract treatment, given the large proportion of individuals who still presented extremely late. KEY WORDS Cataract, Complication, Characteristics, Outcome, Surgery
Comparative Study between the Use of Pigtail Catheters and Traditional Chest Tube Drain in Cases with Pneumothorax
(Kathmandu University, 2022) Vaidya, S; Karmacharya, RM; Shrestha, B; Adhikari, MM; Sharma, R; Khadka, S; Bhandar, N; Hada, G
ABSTRACT Background Pneumothorax is a condition in which air or other gas is present in the pleural cavity. Mainstay of management of pneumothorax is to remove the air from the pleural space usually done by chest tube insertion. There is still uncertainty whether minimal invasive management with pigtail catheter is sufficient for the management of pneumothorax. Objective To find the effectiveness, safety, tolerability, efficacy of pigtail catheters and large bore chest tubes. Method Prospective comparative study was done in Dhulikhel Hospital between August 2019 till August 2021. Chest tube insertion used to be the only available treatment modality till December 2020 (15 months). Following January 2021 after obtaining ethical clearance for use of pigtail insertion for pneumothorax, this treatment modality was done (8 months). Result Among 76 patients, 52(68.4%) underwent a large bore chest tube and 24 (34.6%) pigtail catheter patients. Mean age of the patients was 48 years (SD 18.01). Duration of hospital stay and length of hospital stay was more in large bore catheters and less in pigtail catheters. Eight hours post tube placement of the expansion of the lungs was present in pigtail and was statistically significant. Pain killer used in pigtail catheters was limited to Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, for large bore catheter opioids were added and were statistically significant. Conclusion Pigtail catheter is nearly effective as compared to traditional wide bore catheters. KEY WORDS Large bore chest tube, Painkillers, Pigtail, Pleural space, Pneumothorax
Correlation between Invasive Intracranial Pressure Monitoring and Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter in Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury
(Kathmandu University, 2021) Shrestha, B; Shrestha, P; Ghale, P; Lakshmipathy, G
ABSTRACT Background In management of patients with traumatic brain injury, intracranial pressure holds an important place. Any untoward rise in intracranial pressure portends dreaded complications. Hence, any delay in detecting the issue is considered unacceptable. Objective This study focuses on analyzing the correlation between ultrasound derived optic nerve sheath diameter and intracranial pressure values derived from invasive intracranial pressure monitoring system in a neurosurgical patient with severe traumatic brain injury. Method A prospective observational study was performed using a convenience sample technique including all adult patients with traumatic brain injury who had invasive intracranial monitors placed as part of their clinical care. Ocular ultrasound was performed with 5 - 7.5 MHz linear probe of ACUSON X300 ultrasound system while simultaneous intracranial pressure readings were obtained directly from an invasive intracranial pressure monitoring system. The association between optic nerve sheath diameter and invasive intracranial pressure reading was assessed with the Pearson’s correlation coefficient and a receiver operator characteristic curve was created to determine the optimal optic nerve sheath diameter cutoff to detect intracranial pressure > 15 mm of Hg. Result One hundred and fifteen ocular ultrasounds were performed on 30 individual patients. The mean age of the population involved in this study is 42.13 years ± 1.89 with male preponderance in the ratio of 6:1. Pearson’s correlation coefficient of optic nerve sheath diameter and intracranial pressure was found to be 0.844 (p < 0.000) demonstrating a significant positive correlation. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was found to be 0.961 (95% confidence interval = 0.93 to 0.99). Based on analysis of the receiver operating characteristic curve, optic nerve sheath diameter > 4.85 mm performed best to detect intracranial pressure > 15 mm of Hg. with a sensitivity of 93.5% and specificity of 83%. Conclusion Optic nerve sheath diameter is a dependable screening tool to evaluate for elevated intracranial pressure among patients with traumatic nerve injury. KEY WORDS Intracranial pressure, Optic nerve sheath diameter, Screening
Depression, Alcohol Use, Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence and HIV Status among HIV-infected from Multiple Antiretroviral Therapy Clinics in Nepal
(Kathmandu University, 2019) Kunwar, D; Shrestha, B; Risal, A; Kunwar, R; Khadka, S
ABSTRACT Background Depression and alcohol use disorder are very common among people living with HIV infection, these disorders are not only common among HIV patients but also associated with antiretroviral therapy (ART) non adherence, morbidity and mortality. Objective The objective of our study is to study the prevalence of Depression, Alcohol use, and ART treatment adherence. Method This is a analytical cross-sectional study. Total of 221 participants were included in the study. Convenient method of sampling was used to collect the data from three district Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Kavre ART (Antiretroviral treatment) clinics. Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was used for the assessment of depression, Alcohol use disorders identification test (AUDIT) was used for alcohol related problems and Visual analogue scale (VAS) was used for treatment adherence. Chi square test and multiple linear regression analysis were conducted for testing bivariate and multivariate relationship of sociodemographic and clinical factors with depression and treatment adherence. Result The 40% participants found to have depression. Variables associated with depression significantly after multiple regression analysis were employment (p value=0.04) and mode of transmission (p value= 0.003). More than half, 56% of the participant’s CD4+ cells count was <500 per cubic millimetre and 71% participant’s viral load was undetectable. Clinical variables mode of transmission (pvalue=0.000), duration of illness (p value=0.03) and duration of treatment (p value=0.01) were significantly associated with depression. ART treatment adherence was significantly associated with CD4 cell (p value=0.02) and viral load (p value= 0.05). Conclusion Depression is very prominent among HIV positive patients. Low CD4+ cell count and high viral load has been seen among patients who are not adherent to antiretroviral treatment. It is suggested that clinicians should carefully assess the possibility of depressive symptoms in their patients on ART treatment. KEY WORDS Antiretroviral therapy, Adherence, Depression, HIV-infection
Factors Affecting Recanalisation after Optimal Management of Deep Vein Thrombosis; A single institution based study
(Kathmandu University, 2019) Karmacharya, RM; Shrestha, B; Devbhandari, M; Tuladhar, SM; Pradhan, A
ABSTRACT Background Presence of recanalisation will favour for better physiological recovery after medical management of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) along with lesser chances of post thrombotic syndrome. Rate of recanalisation is varied and can range from 43-57% and the factors that affect recanalisation are still a dilemma. Objective To know the factors for recanalisation following Deep Vein Thrombosis. Method This is a single institution based retrospective-prospective analytical study encompassing all ultrasonologically diagnosed cases of Deep Vein Thrombosis in adults from January 2015 to November 2017. All the cases were admitted with oral warfarin bridged by Heparin/ Enoxaparin and were discharged once International Normalization Ratio was in therapeutic range. The patients were followed up for three months with minimal of three outpatient followup. Best finding in the doppler ultrasonography (done by Acuson P500, Seimens) in relation to recanalisation was taken for the study. Result There were 67 cases of Deep Vein Thrombosis. Of these cases male to female ratio was 0.91. The mean age was 48.07. Most common extent was up to common femoral vein (47.8%) followed by upto popliteal vein (40.3%). Remaining 11.9% had extension upto iliac veins. There was no recanalisation in 2 cases (3%). Partial recanalisation was seen in 23 cases (34.3%) while complete recanalisation was seen in 42 cases (62.7%). Recanalisation is more in DVT involving popliteal vein while it decreases as the extension goes up. In contrast to 79.4% complete recanalisation in popliteal vein, that in common femoral vein is 62.5% while in iliac vein is only 37.5%. Mean age in no recanalisation group is much younger than partial or complete recanalisation groups. Conclusion Recanalisation following Deep Vein Thrombosis distal to popliteal vein is more than that in proximal Deep Vein Thrombosis. The information on recanalization can be considered to use to decide upon the duration of medical management of Deep Vein Thrombosis. KEY WORDS Deep vein thrombosis, Doppler ultrasonography, Recanalisation
Fulminant Hepatic Failure Due to Dengue
(Kathmandu University, 2011) Sedhain, A; Adhikari, S; Regmi, S; Chaudhari, SK; Shah, M; Shrestha, B
ABSTRACT: Dengue Fever (DF) is only rarely considered as a cause of acute liver failure even globally and only a few case reports of acute hepatic failure and encephalopathy occurring in DF in adults are available. We report a case of Acute Liver Failure due to Dengue during a major outbreak in 2010 in Chitwan. A 20 year old previously healthy female presented to the emergency department of Chitwan Medical College with fever, jaundice and altered sensorium. She was tested positive for Dengue IgM. Her biochemical and clinical parameters were suggestive of acute liver failure with total billirubin of 10.1 mg/dL, direct billirubin of 5.2 mg/ dL, ALT 5760 IU, AST 14100 IU, alkaline phosphatase of 1250 IU, PT INR of 1.76 and platelet count of 30,000 /mm3. Other causes for acute hepatic failure like acute viral hepatitis, leptospirosis, malaria, Reye’s syndrome were ruled out. The patient was admitted and managed in the ICU with supportive care and platelet transfusion. With treatment she made a significant clinical and biochemical improvement with AST of 105 IU, ALT of 120 IU and platelet count of 150,000/mm3. She was discharged after 11 days of hospital stay. KEY WORDS Dengue, Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever, Fuminant Hepatic failure
Improving Knowledge, Skill and Confidence of Novice Medical Doctors in Trauma Management with Principles of ABCDE
(Kathmandu University, 2018) Shrestha, R; Khadka, SK; Thapa, S; Shrestha, B; Shrestha, SK; Ranjit, S; Pradhan, BB; Shakya, YR; Lama, D; Shrestha J
ABSTRACT Background Trauma is one of the major public health concerns clamming about five million death annually worldwide. Experience and confidence of a doctor in the management of trauma patients have big impact on the overall outcome. Objective This study aims to evaluate the outcome of a trauma course in improving the knowledge, skill and confidence of novice doctors in managing trauma victims. Method A pre/post test analytical study was carried out among novice medical doctors from Kathmandu University School of Medical Science (KUSMS) who participated in a standard two and a half day trauma course, that utilizes the principles of ABCDE, as a part of their regular training. Pre-course knowledge and skill were compared with immediate post-course scores on the same guidelines. Objective structured and subjective written feedbacks from the participants were analyzed qualitatively to identify the perceptions of candidates. Result Sixty-eight males and twenty-nine females completed the course. The average pre- test scores in knowledge and skill were 8.3(33.2%) and 19.6(78.5%) respectively. Similarly the post-test scores were 16.04(64.2%) and 22.45 (89.5%) respectively, showing statistically significant improvements (P 0.000). The mean percentage improvement in knowledge was 48.8% and that in skill was 160.9%. The feedback analysis showed majority of the participants were satisfied with the course and they perceived improved “self-confident” in handling trauma cases. Conclusion All the novice doctors should participate in a standard trauma course hence their knowledge, skill and confidence in handling a trauma can be improved. KEY WORDS Emergency room trauma course (ERTC), Interns, Knowledge and skill, Principles of ABCDE, Simulation, Skill stations, Trauma, Trauma course
Incidence and Risk Factors of Surgical Site Infection Following Cesarean Section at Dhulikhel Hospital
(Kathmandu University, 2014) Shrestha, S; Shrestha, R; Shrestha, B; Dongol, A
ABSTRACT Background Cesarean Section (CS) is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures in obstetrical and gynecological department. Surgical site infection (SSI) after a cesarean section increases maternal morbidity prolongs hospital stay and medical costs. Objective The aim of this study was to find out the incidence and associated risk factors of surgical site infection among cesarean section cases. Method A prospective, descriptive study was conducted at Dhulikhel Hospital, department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology from July 2013 to June 2014. Total of 648 women who underwent surgical procedure for delivery during study period were included in the study. Data was collected from patient using structred pro forma and examination of wound till discharge was done. Data was compared in terms of presence of surgical site infection and study variables. Wound was evaluated for the development of SSI on third day, and fifth post-operative day, and on the day of discharge. Results Total of 648 cases were studied. The mean age was 24±4.18. Among the studied cases 92% were literate and 8% were illiterate. Antenatal clinic was attended by 97.7%. The incidence rate of surgical site infection was 82 (12.6%). SSI was found to be common in women who had rupture of membrane before surgery (p=0.020), who underwent emergency surgery (p=0.0004), and the women who had vertical skin incision (p=0.0001) and interrupted skin suturing (p=0.0001) during surgery. Conclusion Surgical site infection following caesarean section is common. Various modifiable risk factors were observed in this study. Development of SSI is related to multi- factorial rather than one factor. Development and strict implementation of protocol by all the health care professionals could be effective to minimize and prevent the infection rate after caesarean section. KEY WORDS Caesarean section, maternal infection, surgical site infection
Influence of Body Mass Index (BMI), Age and Gender on Stages of Varicose Vein in Newly Diagnosed Cases Following Screening Doppler in Outpatient Clinic
(Kathmandu University, 2020) Shrestha, B; Karmacharya, RM
ABSTRACT Background Varicose vein is one of the most common venous diseases which affect superficial veins especially of lower limb. This disease is characterized by prominent dilated veins, feeling of heaviness, itchiness, pigmentation, ulceration depending upon the stage of the disease. Objective This study was conducted to know how Body Mass Index, Age and Gender influence staging of varicose veins in our context. Method This is a cross sectional hospital based study conducted at Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University Hospital from April 2018 to March 2019. Patients with signs and symptoms of varicose vein were included in the study. Informed consent was taken from each patient and data collection done by filling the proforma. Result This study comprised 135 lower limbs with varicose vein from 108 patients. Male:Female ratio was 1.4:1. Mean age of patients was 44.47±12.65 (17-81) years. Significant correlation was found between increasing age and progression in Clinical staging of Varicose vein according to Clinical classification (p<0.05). Mean Great Saphenous Vein diameter at knee was found significantly higher in patients with more than five years of symptoms Mean Body Mass Index was not very different in different Clinical stage of Varicose veins. Conclusion This study showed that the Clinical Staging of Clinical Etiological Anatomical and Pathophysiological classification of varicose vein is significantly related to age. The mean diameter of Great Saphenous Vein at the level of Knee is significantly related to the duration of symptoms. However, the influence of Body Mass Index and gender on stages of varicose vein could not be established. KEY WORDS Age, Body mass index, Doppler, Gender, Varicose veins
Initial Experience of Complex Peripheral Bypass Surgery at Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University Hospital
(Kathmandu University, 2017) Karmacharya, RM; Shrestha, B; Devbhandari, M; Tuladhar, SM; Hodde, A; Thermann, F
ABSTRACT Peripheral arterial disease is seemingly silent yet is a major pubic health problem with limb threatening and life threatening consequences. This condition can initially be asymptomatic and gradually may progress to intermittent claudication and finally to critical ischemia. When conservative management is not sufficient and there is option of surgical management, peripheral bypass surgery is an established modality of treatment of peripheral arterial disease. We present our initial cases of peripheral arterial bypass surgery all of which are technically demanding surgeries. All the cases have resulted into limb salvage until current follow-up. KEY WORDS Claudication, critical ischemia, peripheral arterial bypass, peripheral arterial disease
Isolation and Intensive Care (ICU) Service, Surge Capacity and Pandemic Training in Government Designated COVID-19 Clinics and Hospitals of Nepal
(Kathmandu University, 2022) Bhattarai, S; Neopane, AK; Shrestha, B; Dangol, SR; Shrestha, SKD; Dutta, A; Adhikari, G; Dahal, S
ABSTRACT Background The coronavirus pandemic preparedness and response activities began in Nepal after the detection of the first case on 24 January 2020. Highest daily case record in June 2020 was 671, but it reached above 5,000 in October 2020. Objective This study assessed preparedness and response status of government designated COVID-19 clinics and various level hospitals. Method A web-based survey was conducted among government designated COVID-19 clinics and Level hospitals in June 2020. The Medical Operations Division of the COVID-19 Crisis Management Center (CCMC) retained contact list of focal person in each facility for regular updates. Forty-nine out of 125 clinics and all level hospitals (five Level-1, 12 Level-2, three Level-3) provided responses. Result There were 25 or less isolation beds in the majority of COVID-19 clinics (83.7%) and Level-1 hospitals (60%), whereas the majority of Level-2 (92%) and Level-3 hospitals (67%) had arranged >25 beds. Only five clinics, one Level-1 hospital, six Level-2 and two Level-3 hospitals had a surge capacity of additional 20 or more isolation beds. Only one-fourth of the designated health facilities had arranged separate isolation facility for vulnerable population. Majority of the designated clinics and Level-1 hospitals had five or less functional ICU beds and functional ventilators. Very few Level-2 hospitals had > 10 ICU beds and > 10 ventilators. Healthcare workers in the majority of facilities were trained on donning/doffing, hand washing, swab collection, and healthcare waste management, but, a very few received formal training on patient transport, dead body management, epidemic drill, and critical care. Conclusion This study revealed insufficient preparation in COVID-19 facilities during the initial phase of pandemic. The findings were utilized by the government stakeholders at central, provincial and local levels for scaling up surge capacity and improving health services at the time of case surge. As the pandemic itself is a dynamic process, periodic assessments are needed to gauze preparedness and response during different phases of disease outbreak. KEY WORDS COVID-19, Crisis Management Center (CCMC), Outbreak, Pandemic

Browsing by Author "Shrestha, B"

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