No abstract

Objective: To identify relevant factors influencing the practice of self-care measures for prevention of the ongoing COVID-19 preventions based on prior evidence-based experiences. Method: We conducted a literature review of empirical studies conducted between the years 2000 and 2020 focusing on self-care measures in a pandemic situation. Result: Of the 250 studies identified, 19 studies met inclusion criteria. Sixty-three percent of the eligible studies reported handwashing, 21% reported social distancing, facemask wearing, 11% reported social avoidance and information-seeking behaviour. The identified factors motivating these practices include risk perception, health education and social trust. Conclusion: We found that public health agencies commonly recommend self-care measures during pandemics. The adherence to them depends on individuals' perception of risk, knowledge about the situation, trust in the government agencies providing the recommendations and empathy that can motivate adherence. Practice Implication: The public, researchers, and policymakers could learn from the past and present situation to understand what measures are proven relevant and what factors could motivate adherence. More emphasis could be placed on the role of individuals in health promotion and disease prevention as they have been proven to be helpful.

There has been increased use of cefepime due to concerns about the nephrotoxic effects of the combined use of vancomycin and Zosyn. However, cefepime is associated with neurotoxicity. We conducted a systematic review using online data to explore the trend of cefepime-induced neurotoxicity over the last 10 years. Forty-six articles met our inclusion criteria, including 73 cases of cefepime-induced neurotoxicity. We noticed a steady increase in the reports of cefepime-induced neurotoxicity, from one case in 2013 to 11 cases in 2022. Individuals aged 65 and older accounted for most cefepime-induced neurotoxicity cases (52%). The top three indications for cefepime administration included bone and joint infections (25%), urinary tract infections (22.7%), and pneumonia (22.7%). Most patients with renal impairment have never had a renal adjustment of their cefepime dosage (either 2 g 12 hours a day or 2 g eight hours a day). Most cases of cefepime-induced neurotoxicity occurred between days two and five (n=29, 71%), while most resolution occurred between days one and five (n=29, 85%). While cefepime continues to be a popularly used and effective antibiotic against gram-negative bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa , its dosage needs to be adjusted in patients with renal impairment to avoid neurotoxicity.