Digital Commons Network^™

Using Information Practices Of Nurses To Reform Information Literacy Instruction In Baccalaureate Nursing Programs, Anne R. Diekema, Betsy S. Hopkins, Brandon Patterson, Nena Schvaneveldt

Faculty Publications

Objective - Seeking information is a key element of evidence based practice and successful healthcare delivery. Significant literature exists on both the information seeking behaviour of professional nurses and information literacy teaching methods, but scarce evidence connects nurses’ information behaviour and environments with their education. This study sought to use data from nursing alumni to answer the following research questions: What are the current information practices of professional bachelor’s-prepared nurses? How do recently-graduated nurses suggest that their education could have better prepared them to find and evaluate information in the workplace?

Methods - The researchers conducted a descriptive study using …

Does Family Communication Matter? Exploring Knowledge Of Breast Cancer Genetics In Cancer Families, Deborah O. Himes Phd, Aprn-Bc, Sarah H. Davis, Jane H. Lassetter, Neil E. Peterson, Margaret F. Clayton, Wendy Birmingham Phd, Anita Y. Kinney

Faculty Publications

Knowledge of breast cancer genetics is critical for those at increased hereditary risk who must make decisions about breast cancer screening options. This descriptive study explored theory-based relationships among cognitive and emotional variables related to knowledge of breast cancer genetics in cancer families. Participants included first-degree relatives of women with breast cancer who had received genetic counseling and testing. Study participants themselves did not have breast cancer and had not received genetic counseling or testing. Data were collected by telephone interviews and surveys. Variables analyzed included numeracy, health literacy, cancer-related distress, age, education, and the reported amount of information shared …

Cryolipolysis: A Guide For Primary Care Practitioners, Miryam Harper, Jane H. Lassetter

Faculty Publications

A desire for the ideal body image has influenced the development of a nonsurgical body-shaping procedure known as cryolipolysis. The purpose of this clinical feature is to inform nurse practitioners about the risks and benefits of cryolipolysis so they can educate their patients. Cryolipolysis is a safe, effective method of reducing small areas of unwanted fat. Adverse effects are minimal and include pain, redness, bruising, and swelling. Results are seen within 12 weeks, but long-term effects are unknown. There are contraindications, and it is relatively expensive; however, it may be a safer option than invasive surgery.

Antimicrobial Stewardship: Staff Nurse Knowledge And Attitudes, Katreena Collette Merrill, Sandra Forsyth Hanson, Sharon Sumner, Todd Vento, John Veillette, Brandono Webb

Faculty Publications

Background: Registered nurses are uniquely qualified to augment antimicrobial stewardship (AS) processes. However, the role of nursing in AS needs further development. More information is needed regarding gaps in registered nurse knowledge, attitudes toward AS, and how infection preventionists can help.

Methods: An online descriptive survey was deployed to a convenience sample of approximately 2,000 nurses at the bedside. The survey included 15 questions addressing: (1) overall knowledge of AS; (2) antimicrobial delivery; (3) knowledge and attitudes regarding antimicrobial use; (4) antimicrobial resistance; and (5) antimicrobial resources and education.

Results: Three hundred sixteen staff nurses from 3 hospitals (15.8%) responded …

Educating Patients About Opioid Disposal: A Key Role For Perianesthesia Nurses, Katreena C. Merrill, Valynn Christina Haslam, Karlen E. (Beth) Luthy, Craig Nuttall

Faculty Publications

Purpose: To examine opioid prescription practices, patient use of opioids after laparoscopic cholecystectomy, and patient knowledge about disposal of unused medication.

Design: Mixed methods design with a chart review and structured phone interview.

Methods: Thirty-four patients were interviewed by phone and asked how many opioids were prescribed, how many excess pills they had 6 to 10 days postoperatively, and if they knew how to dispose of them.

Findings: Average number of excess pills ranged from 0 to 42 (mean = 14; SD = 11.7). Nearly half of patients (47%) perceived the prescribed quantity as “too many.” Seventy-one percent of patients …

Exercises For Older Adults With Knee And Hip Pain, Neil E. Peterson, Kay D. Osterloh, M. Nichole Graff

Faculty Publications

Half of all older adults report knee and/or hip pain. Obesity and sedentary lifestyle contribute to the incidence and prevalence of painful knee and hip conditions. Weight loss should be a priority in overweight or obese patients. Improving joint function over time requires a balance of rest and usage. Practitioners should assess joint disorders and recommend exercises for reducing knee and hip pain with patients when appropriate. Instruction should include a combination of 1) stretching and flexibility, 2) strength training, and 3) endurance conditioning exercises. Even small improvements in exercise can make meaningful improvements in pain, movement, endurance, and quality …