Author(s): Hélder Carreira iD ORCID https://orcid.org/0009-0003-2729-6286

Year: 2025

How to cite: Carreira, H.M.R.Ó. (2025). The Kaizen philosophy in the performance of organizations [A filosofia Kaizen no desempenho das organizações]. Revista Info Saúde, Ano V (11), 12-14. https://infosaudeonline.webnode.pt/

Abstract: The Kaizen philosophy, originating in post-World War II Japan, emphasizes continuous improvement through small, incremental changes. It combines "kai" (change) and "zen" (better), reflecting its focus on enhancing efficiency, quality, and productivity. Initially adopted by companies like Toyota to optimize processes and minimize waste, Kaizen became globally recognized following Masaaki Imai's 1986 publication, "Kaizen: The Key to Japan's Competitive Success. Key principles include collective involvement, the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle, waste elimination, and fostering a quality-focused organizational culture. Tools like 5S, Kanban, and Poka-Yoke support these objectives, ensuring systematic improvements. Kaizen's benefits include increased productivity, reduced costs, improved quality, and a more engaged workforce. However, its implementation faces challenges, such as resistance to change, training needs, and cultural adaptations outside Japan. Overcoming these obstacles requires strong leadership and sustained commitment. Integrating Kaizen with emerging technologies offers opportunities for enhanced innovation and long-term organizational sustainability.

Keywords: Kaizen Philosophy, Performance, Organizations, Knowledge, Continuous Improvement

Author(s): Pedro Sequeira, Carolina Luís, Daniela Caldeira, Mariana Fernandes & Tânia Luís

Year: 2025

How to cite: Sequeira, P.; Luís, C.; Caldeira, D.; Fernandes, M. & Luís, T (2025). The Phenomenon of Migration and the Importance of Health Literacy [Fenómeno migratório e a importância da literacia em saúde]. Revista Info Saúde, Ano V (11), 11-12. https://infosaudeonline.webnode.pt/

Abstract: The increasing migration trend from 2008 to 2023 is driven by socio-political, demographic, economic, and environmental factors. Immigrants seek improved living conditions, income, healthcare, and security. However, they often face challenges, particularly language barriers, requiring host countries to adapt socially and politically. Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in addressing the needs of immigrant communities, ensuring equal rights and cultural sensitivity. Health literacy is essential for community integration and public health, as inadequate levels contribute to inequalities. The World Health Organization defines health literacy as the ability to access, understand, and apply health information for well-being. The Portuguese government has committed to enhancing health literacy through policies, digital resources, and strategic plans like PNLSCC 2023-2030. Collaboration with local institutions, immigrant organizations, and community leaders is vital. Strengthening health literacy enables immigrants to engage with healthcare systems, improving individual and collective health outcomes while promoting inclusive public health strategies.

Keywords: Migration, Health Literacy, Inclusion, Sociocultural Challenges, Health Policies

Author(s): Chris Branquinho & Juliana F. Duque

Year: 2025

How to cite: Branquinho, C. & Duque, J. F. (2025). Do You Want to Be a Hero? The Power of Design in Health Literacy: How Visual Communication Helps Save Lives [Queres ser um Herói? O Poder do Design na Literacia em Saúde: Como a Comunicação Visual ajuda a Salvar Vidas]. Revista Info Saúde, Ano V (11), 29-32. https://infosaudeonline.webnode.pt/

Abstract: Health literacy is essential for informed decision-making, directly impacting individual and collective well-being. Studies indicate that early education in health literacy, particularly in first aid, could prevent over 100,000 deaths annually. Nurses play a crucial role in empowering communities through training in Basic Life Support (BLS). Research highlights that children aged 4-18 can effectively learn BLS through visual aids. The innovative project Do You Want to Be a Hero? Learn to Save a Life introduces an illustrated children's book designed to teach BLS. Combining healthcare expertise with communication design, this resource simplifies complex medical concepts into an accessible, engaging format. The book employs information design strategies through storytelling and character illustration, making life-saving skills comprehensible for young readers. Applied in schools, this initiative fosters early health education, reinforcing the survival chain and promoting social responsibility. By merging design and health, this project inspires future generations to become life-saving heroes.

Keywords: Health Literacy, Basic Life Support (BLS), Visual Communication, Children's Education, Design in Healthcare

Author(s): Filipa Veiga, Maria Van-zeller & Rita Moleiro

Year: 2025

How to cite: Veiga, F.; Van-zeller, M. & Moleiro, R. (2025). Wildfires a reflective analysis of their impact on the community [Incêndios: uma análise reflexiva sobre os seus impactos na comunidade]. Revista Info Saúde, Ano V (11), 24-26. https://infosaudeonline.webnode.pt/

Abstract: Between January and October 2024, Portugal recorded 6,229 wildfires, burning 136,429 hectares. The country has the highest incidence of wildfires in Europe, driven by its Mediterranean climate, rural depopulation, and inadequate forest management. Fires impact human health, biodiversity, and the economy, causing fatalities, pollution, soil erosion, and long-term socio-economic consequences. Smoke exposure aggravates respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, while water and soil contamination pose persistent public health risks. The concept of One Health emphasizes the interdependence of human, animal, and environmental health, advocating for integrated responses. The 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) highlight the need for climate action, conservation, and disaster preparedness. Portugal's National Plan for Integrated Rural Fire Management (PNGIFR) prioritizes forest sustainability and local economic revitalization. Nurses play a crucial role in community health education, fostering disaster preparedness. Further research is needed to bridge environmental and public health policies, mitigating wildfire-related risks effectively.

Keywords: Wildfires, Community, Public Health, Nursing, Environmental Health

Author(s): Hélder Carreira iD ORCID https://orcid.org/0009-0003-2729-6286

Year: 2024

How to cite: Carreira, H.M.R.Ó. (2024). The Importance of Information Systems in Healthcare Organizations [A Importância dos Sistemas de Informação nas Organizações de Saúde]. Revista Info Saúde, Ano IV (10), 23-24. https://infosaudeonline.webnode.pt/

Abstract: Information Systems (IS) are critical for healthcare organizations, providing support for operational processes, decision-making, and competitive strategies. Comprising people, processes, and technology, IS enhance resource management, operational efficiency, communication, and coordination. They enable informed decision-making through accurate and timely information. Healthcare Information Systems (HIS) play a vital role in planning, executing, monitoring, and evaluating health services. They transform data into actionable information, ensuring continuity of care, improving clinical outcomes, and supporting patient-centered strategies. HIS reduce documentation time, eliminate redundancies, enhance team communication, and enable safe and efficient clinical care. HIS also support policy formulation and performance evaluation, generating key health indicators and facilitating interoperability among professionals. Properly designed and implemented HIS promote cost-effectiveness, quality improvement, and sustainable management processes. Their application significantly improves workflows, clinical decision-making, and care outcomes, underscoring their role as essential tools for governance, quality management, and modern healthcare challenges.

Keywords: Information Systems, Health Information Systems, Knowledge, Operational Processes

Author(s): Hélder Carreira iD ORCID https://orcid.org/0009-0003-2729-6286

Year: 2023

How to cite: Carreira, H.M.R.Ó. (2023). The Challenges of Sustainable Development in Organizations – From Indicators to Value Creation and Economic Prosperity [Os desafios do desenvolvimento sustentável nas organizações – dos indicadores à criação de valor e prosperidade económica]. Revista Info Saúde, Ano III (6), 27-30. https://infosaudeonline.webnode.pt/

Abstract: The concept of sustainability, rooted in ensuring present needs do not compromise future generations, has evolved into a multidimensional framework addressing social, environmental, and economic challenges. The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a universal framework aimed at eradicating poverty, reducing inequalities, and combating climate change while fostering peace and partnerships. Organizational sustainability extends this vision by integrating ethical practices, long-term economic growth, and environmental stewardship into business strategies, leveraging principles like the Triple Bottom Line (People, Planet, Profit). This approach fosters employee well-being, ecological responsibility, and profitability, driving innovation and competitive advantage. Evolving into the 5Ps framework, it highlights partnerships and peace as additional pillars. Successful implementation requires leadership commitment, stakeholder engagement, and transparent, data-driven decision-making supported by sustainability indicators. Ultimately, sustainable practices enhance organizational value, societal impact, and environmental preservation, creating a balanced path toward long-term prosperity.

Keywords: Sustainable Development, Organizations, Indicators, Value Creation, Economic Prosperity