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IntroductionChest x-rays are widely used for diagnosing chest pathology worldwide. Pediatricians frequently interpret chest radiographs in the emergency department, guiding patient management. This study aims to assess the competency of non-radiologists in interpreting emergency chest x-rays and compare it with trainees of different levels to determine the necessity of radiologist input.MethodologyA cross-sectional online survey was conducted in Saudi Arabia from September to October 2023, involving 385 participants, including pediatricians and medical interns from various regions. Carefully selected questions addressed a range of x-ray abnormalities in pediatric emergencies, assessing fundamental understanding of x-ray interpretation, such as inspiratory vs. expiratory and AP or PA films.ResultsThe study included 385 participants, primarily Saudi nationals in the eastern region, with an equal gender distribution and ages ranging from 20 to 29 years. Approximately 29.09% demonstrated fair knowledge, with 28% being Junior Pediatrics Residents, 18% Pediatric Consultants, and 15% Senior Pediatrics Residents. Fair knowledge was significantly associated with individuals aged 20–29 years, residents of the western region, and Junior Pediatrics Residents. Clinical knowledge varied among different groups, with 59% correctly identifying atypical pneumonia and 65% recognizing asymmetrical hyperinflation. However, rates for other conditions differed, with low identification of potential foreign body aspiration and film type. Accuracy in identifying tension pneumothorax and hyperlucency varied among clinicians. Pleural effusion films had a 65% identification rate for the diagnosis, but only 28% accurately described the X-ray and selected the correct answer for lung opacity.ConclusionThe study concluded that 29.9% of the participating physicians exhibited fair knowledge of common pediatric emergency radiological films. Junior pediatric residents showed the best knowledge, and Tetralogy of Fallot, asymmetrical hyperinflation, and pleural effusion had the highest recognition rates. In conclusion, there is still a need for radiologists in the pediatric emergency department to ensure optimal functioning.

This study aimed to assess the level of readiness among primary school teachers to handle sports injuries in Saudi Arabia.  A structured questionnaire was applied to collect information on teachers, training, knowledge, attitudes, and perceived barriers in managing common sports injuries. Descriptive analysis was performed for demographics and baseline information. Pearson's Chi-squared test and Fisher's exact test were used to assess the determinants of first-aid attitude. Multiple logistic regression was also used to evaluate the determinants of first-aid knowledge. A total number of 535 teachers participated in this study. Most teachers (64.3%) reported an occurrence of sports injury once per month. Only 373 (67.72%) perceived the first aid kit to be readily accessible. The majority (95.89%) of teachers reported familiarity with conducting first aid and 87.38% expressed interest and willingness to learn. Social media was the primary resource of first aid knowledge (57.94%). Logistic regression showed that male sex (OR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.26, 0.95; p-value = 0.036) and experiencing sports injuries once per month (OR: 0.39, 95% CI: 0.16, 0.84; p-value = 0.024) were associated with negative attitude toward first aid. However, having 10-20 years of experience (OR: 2.46, 95% CI: 1.09, 5.62; p-value = 0.031) or more than 20 years of experience was associated with more positive attitude toward first aid (OR: 6.47, 95% CI: 2.18, 19.8; p-value ≤ 0.001). Furthermore, accessing first aid information from digital media and healthcare professionals compared to books was significantly associated with increased knowledge about first aid. Easy accessibility to first aid was also significantly associated with increased knowledge about first aid. While many teachers feel prepared, the primary source of their first aid knowledge is unattributed social media content rather than certified training. Certified first aid training programs are needed to help in ensuring the quality emergency management of sports injuries.

The effective functioning of emergency departments (EDs) is essential for providing timely and appropriate medical care to patients with acute health issues. Triage, a critical aspect of ED operations, involves prioritizing patients based on the severity of their conditions. However, patients' understanding of the triage system plays a significant role in ensuring its efficient utilization. This study aims to examine the community's understanding of the triage system and the influencing factors. A cross-sectional study included 775 participants from the Eastern region of Saudi Arabia, all of whom had prior visits to the ED during their lifetime. The data was randomly collected between June and July 2023 through a self-administered online questionnaire. The results showed that a substantial number of participants (73.8%) were aware of why some patients are prioritized over others in terms of room allocation, while 26.2% lacked this awareness. Among those aware, the majority (80.5%) believed that the priority system is fair, while 19.5% disagreed. Roughly two-thirds (64.8%) of the participants understood the concept of triage, while 35.2% lacked knowledge in this regard. The history of ED visits, age, and highest level of education were significantly associated with knowledge (p < 0.001). Participants who had a history of ED visits, were aged 20-29 years, and had a bachelor's degree had the highest percentage of adequate knowledge. The study also found that the most common reasons for non-urgent visits to the ED were the unavailability of appointments elsewhere (35%) and the perception that the ED provides faster care (30.4%). The study's assessment of triage knowledge reveals a moderate understanding among participants, with a majority demonstrating awareness of the prioritization system. The associations identified between demographic factors and triage knowledge highlight the importance of tailoring educational initiatives to specific groups. Individuals who visited the ED frequently and those who sought prior care exhibited better triage knowledge, suggesting potential opportunities for targeted interventions.

Introduction: Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a vital medical intervention for treating various conditions. The preferred methods, i.e., bone marrow transplantation and peripheral blood stem cell transplantation, have saved lives and attracted attention. Saudi Arabia, with a high sickle cell disease and leukemia incidence, faces the challenge of matching donors for HSCT. Factors like knowledge, attitudes, cultural beliefs, and access to information impact donation decisions.Methods: In May 2023, a cross-sectional online survey was conducted in Saudi Arabia, targeting the general population. Data were collected through an online questionnaire, analyzing demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and factors influencing donation intention.Results: Demographic analysis showed that females, younger individuals (18-25 years), those with higher education, and healthcare workers had better knowledge. Attitudes toward donation varied: 42.4% were willing to donate, while 57.6% were not. Psychological barriers, health concerns, pain, and inadequate knowledge influenced donation reluctance. Of the participants, 3.5% were registered stem cell donors, with 58.8% expressing willingness but not registered. Donors' intent was influenced by family members' need for transplants and knowledge. A majority (56.6%) supported employer support for health programs, while 65.7% believed government funding should assist donors.Conclusion: HSCT is vital in treating diseases like sickle cell and leukemia in Saudi Arabia. While many recognize its importance, knowledge gaps about its specifics and donation deter potential donors. Enhanced awareness campaigns and support from employers and the government could increase donor registrations.

Background: Chest tube insertion (CTI) is a vital procedure in the management of chest trauma and pleural diseases. Challenges associated with CTI often stem from an inadequate understanding of relevant anatomy and unsafe procedural practices. Despite is importance, there is a noticeable lack of data on the current state of CTI competence and knowledge among medical students and interns in Saudi Arabia. Objective: This study aims to investigate the knowledge and competency of CTI among medical students and interns in Saudi Arabia. Methods: In 2024, a cross-sectional study was conducted among medical students and interns across various locations in Saudi Arabia. Data were collected through a comprehensive questionnaire that evaluated participants’ knowledge, practical experience, training and education, as well as their attitudes and beliefs regarding CTI. Results: A total of 413 medical students and interns in Saudi Arabia participated in the study, with 58.1% currently in their clinical years (Years 4–5). The findings revealed that only 35.6% demonstrated adequate knowledge about CTI. Regarding training and education, 53.5% of participants believed that the instruction they received on CTI was sufficient. Additionally, the majority (61.0%) expressed a positive attitude towards CTI, recognising its importance. However, a striking 88.4% reported having no experience performing a CTI independently, with the most commonly reported challenge being “insufficient practice opportunities” (73.6%). Conclusion: The results emphasize the necessity for targeted education to address knowledge deficits and enhance procedural competency, thereby improving clinical safety.

BackgroundPatellofemoral pain (PFP) is a common cause of knee pain. This condition can restrict daily activities by trying to avoid activities that aggravate their pain. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of PFP and knee pain and its associated factors among Saudi young adults.MethodsA descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Saudi Arabia. A validated translated Arabic questionnaire was used. Data was collected through an online self-administered questionnaire. Saudi young adults of both genders aged between (18 to 40 years) were included. The mean ±SD was described for continuous variables, whereas categorical variables were reported using frequencies and percentages. The chi-square test was used for descriptive analysis.ResultsA total of 1558 subjects were enrolled in the current study. About 663 (42.6%) were males and 895 (57.4%) were females. Of the total participants, 718 (46%) were within the age group of 18 to 25. The overall prevalence of PFP among the current study participant was found to be 30.3%. The prevalence of PFP among males was found to be 31.4% and the prevalence of PFP among females was found to be 29.5%. The overall prevalence of knee pain among study participants was found to be 13.2% as 205 of the participants reported knee pain. The prevalence of knee pain among males was found to be 14% and the prevalence of knee pain among females was found to be 12.3%. The multivariate analysis included the following variables: age, gender, and marital status. The following factors predicted higher rate of PFP: being 18 to 25 years old (p-value < 0.001, odds ratio = 1), being 26 to 35 years old (p-value = 0.001, odds ratio = 1.689).ConclusionThe prevalence of PFP and knee pains was found to be relatively high in Saudi Arabia. Age less than 40 years old was found to be associated with a higher prevalence of PFP and knee pain when compared to other age groups.