Digital Commons Network^™

A Shift Towards Informed Decision Making: Hormonal Contraception Versus Natural Cycle Tracking, Lauren Jurrens, Sydnee Isom, Deann Jelsma

Celebration of Research

Females participating in the wide array of birth control options are continuing to expand. With that, more females are expressing concerns about potential adverse drug reactions and side effects of hormonal birth control. While general side effects do occur, the risks for venous thromboembolism (VTE) vary depending on the hormone taken, and cancer risks are minimal to even nonexistent.^3,4,7,15 Yet, many females are turning to natural cycle tracking to avoid synthetic hormones, common side effects, and potential poor health outcomes. Both options can provide comparable efficacy when used appropriately. Therefore, providers must be knowledgeable in all contraception options to …

Best Practice: Peripheral Iv Flushing And Catheter Changes, Adrianna Fransman, Joseph Callahan, Madelyn Liudahl, Anna Dewitt

Celebration of Research

A literature review between August 2023 and November 2023 took a closer look into antibiotic peripheral intravenous line flushing and tubing changes. Ten articles were reviewed: five relating to antibiotic line flushing and five relating to peripheral intravenous catheter changes. This review aimed to determine the best and most effective practices related to PIV antibiotic flushing and peripheral intravenous catheter replacement which in turn decreases the risk of infection, injury, and medication errors, along with increased medication efficacy. The evidence for interventions that promote the most effective outcomes in patients with peripheral intravenous lines is presented.

Melatonin As Treatment And Prophylaxis For Alzheimer's Disease, Avery Macintosh, Kayla Larsen, Andrea Crew

Celebration of Research

Alzheimer’s is a very prevalent disease that has no true dependable and effective treatment. Through research and trials melatonin has been seen as a potential therapeutic option for both structural and behavioral changes in Alzheimer’s. Studies have shown low levels of natural melatonin in CSF are a strong indicator of Alzheimer's Disease. This suggests melatonin could be used as a prophylactic measure as well as a treatment for slowing the disease’s neuropathological changes. Results showed that melatonin improves circadian rhythm and sleep quality leading to more effective glymphatic clearing of free radicals, improving cognition, and decreasing behavioral disturbances.

Pediatric Perceived Pain In Emergency Department Settings, Emma Jenness, Ana Dekruyter, Jackson Henry, Emily Miller

Celebration of Research

A literature review between September 2023-November 2023 examined the numerous nonpharmacological interventions employed in the Emergency Department setting to reduce perceived pain in the pediatric population during painful procedures. This review explored

current research for decreasing perceived pain for children using nonpharmacologic methods and to suggest evidence-based practices that meet the needs of the patient. We suggest several nonpharmacologic interventions that assist in decreasing pain during painful procedures in the Emergency Department setting for the pediatric population.

Peer Support Breastfeeding Programs, Charli Bomgaars, Madison Blankespoor, Owen Kolste, Grace Twelmeyer, Macay Van't Hul

Celebration of Research

Research and analysis were done between August 2023 - November 2023 to explore the use of peer-support programs for anticipated and active breastfeeding women. Ten research reports were utilized to explore peer-supporting breastfeeding programs' use and potential success. The goal was to determine if peer support breastfeeding programs were impactful on breastfeeding mothers associated with Spencer Hospital. We present the benefits of peer support breastfeeding groups and their influence on maternal perceptions of breastfeeding, maternal confidence in sustaining breastfeeding, and the ability of mothers to achieve their breastfeeding goals.

A New Horizon On Knee Osteoarthritis: A Review Of Alternative Treatment Modalities, Rob Norton, Carlos Serafin-Martinez

Celebration of Research

Purpose: The purpose of this review is to determine the effectiveness and utility of alternative knee osteoarthritis treatments in order to assess their clinical applications compared to traditional NSAID and corticosteroid injection therapy. Methods: We analyzed 23 randomized control trials, systematic reviews, and meta analyses to compare the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid (HA), plasma rich protein (PRP) injections, and mesenchymal stem (MSC) cell injections. The individuals used in this study were over 18 years old, had moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis, and had failed at least 1 form of conservative treatment. Quantitative (imaging studies and ROM testing) and qualitative results …

Semaglutide Vs Bariatric Surgery Usage In Individuals Who Are Obese, Megan Carley, Quincey Bauman, Sandra Muyskens

Celebration of Research

Obesity is a complex health disease with rising prevalence. Comorbid conditions occur as a result of obesity that may be detrimental to an individual’s health. While theoretically preventable, it is a difficult condition to manage due to a wide range of causative factors and comorbidities. There are many options to help with weight loss, but two of the most effective treatments are semaglutide medication and bariatric surgery. A literature review was conducted to compare the risks and benefits of each method and identify the more beneficial intervention for weight loss in individuals with obesity. Each method is efficient for a …

The Gut Microbiome In Chronic Diseases, Emily Mcdonald, Katlyn Bombei, Madelyn Weber

Celebration of Research

Cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and various mental health conditions have been shown to be associated with gut microbiota alterations that may contribute to the development and pathogenesis of those diseases. Cardiovascular disease, inflammatory bowel disease and diabetes have been associated with a lack of butyrate- producing bacteria which are responsible for lowering blood pressure, limiting atherosclerosis, abdominal pain, and lowering insulin resistance. Medications for individuals with schizophrenia may decrease bacteria with anti-inflammatory properties. Potential research avenues may be directed at investigating the di@erences between gut microbiomes between men and women to cultivate unique and targeted treatment and prevention …

Cost-Effective And Efficient Screening Guidelines For Diagnosing Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, Emma Montenegro, Katelyn Ten Pas, Connor Van Peursem, Chelsea Thurm

Celebration of Research

A literature review was conducted between the months of August 2023-November 2023 to research current guidelines for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) that were both cost effective and efficient in the adult population. The purpose of this review was to provide current guidelines that could be applied in practice to screen Promise Community Health Center’s patients for the presence of NAFLD. In the review we provide guideline recommendations that are both cost effective and efficient for Promise to apply to their adult population.

Deaths Of Despair In Rural Populations, Tirzah Wittenberg, Dr. Pam Hulstein

Celebration of Research

A literature review was conducted between August 2023-November 2023 to explore deaths of despair in rural and urban populations. The ten articles reviewed center around revealing the prevalence of substance abuse and suicide within different population densities. The purpose of examining this research is to create a foundation of understanding that can then be utilized when making changes on the micro and macro levels in access to health care resources. In this literature review, the prevalence of deaths of despair in rural populations is revealed, along with suggestions for future health care resource investments.

Interventions To Reduce Risk Of Perineal Tearing, Bailey Varpness, Kylie Lyman, Sandra Muyskens

Celebration of Research

Perineal tearing is one of the most common injuries that can be sustained during vaginal delivery, it can be physically and mentally debilitating for the mother to endure. Preventing this injury can lead to an easier healing process for the mother, allowing her to have a more impactful postpartum journey. There is debate as to whether warm compresses, perineal massage, and alternative birthing positions decrease the incidence of perineal tearing. This review of literature focuses on how these interventions work and if they are effective at decreasing the risk for perineal tearing during vaginal delivery.

Bedside Shift Report, Megan Kellen, Aleksa Vande Hoef, Emma Dunsbergen, Nadalie Johnson

Celebration of Research

A literature review was conducted between August 2023-November 2023 to investigate bedside shift report and its effects on nursing communication, patient safety, and patient satisfaction. Ten articles focusing on the benefits and barriers to performing nurse-to-nurse handoff reports at the bedside were analyzed. Recommendations are made based on the best practices of bedside shift report on medical-surgical units.

Examining The Effectiveness Of Subjective Perception Of Collegiate Athletes, Jakob Francksen-Small, Rajat Singh

Celebration of Research

The purpose of this study was to examine how accurately collegiate athletes can perceive their level of hydration via urine color compared to the actual specific gravity of the urine. The findings will be valuable in determining if visual perception is an accurate enough method for athletes to track their hydration. Thirty-five Northwestern College wrestlers were recruited. Each wrestler was instructed to collect a sample of their urine in a paper cup. Then, they compared their urine sample to a chart, provided by the Iowa High School Athletic Association. They assigned their sample a rating, ranging from 1-8. These ratings …

Muscle Activation Frequency Relationship With Cost Of Transport At Increasing Walking Speed Reveals Interplay Of Both Active And Passive Dynamics, Grace Van Namen

Celebration of Research

The purpose of this study was to examine the correlation between metabolic cost and muscle activity, with a focus on frequency of EMG signals during walking at different speeds. The findings will be valuable in rehabilitating individuals who suffer from gait-related disorders. Nine participants were recruited. In the first session of data collection, each participant performed a ten-meter walk test determining their average walking speed. Using these average walking speeds, six more speeds were subsequently established during the second session. In the second session, subjects walked for four minutes at each of the six speeds while EMG data was collected …

Clinical Relevance Of Adolescent Ocp Use And Depression Risk, Rachael Shafer, Kaitlyn Waldner, Anne Reuter

Celebration of Research

Prevalence of depression within the United States has risen significantly in recent years.1 Depression in females has increased by 12 percent compared to 3.8 percent in males between 2009 and 2019.3 Hormonal contraceptives are widely used by women throughout the world and often started as early as menarche. Traditionally intended to prevent unwanted pregnancies, contraceptives are frequently used in the symptom management of menorrhagia and dysmenorrhea in females.2 Oral contraceptive pills (OCP) are a popular choice for adolescents due to their ease of use, formulation varieties, and ability to be used long-term. Considering the widespread use, the adverse effects can …

Tranexamic Acid, Jett Skrien, Evan Lins, Kaleb Myhrwold

Celebration of Research

TXA administration has shown promising results in reducing blood loss resulting in a potentially life-saving measure. Early TXA administration has been shown to be most effective when administered within 3 hours of the incident. After the 3-hour window has passed, its effectiveness is negligible. At this point in time, no single superior means of administration or dosage has been agreed upon. Based on the evidence presented, TXA has a notable safety profile and has been proven to be a low-cost and effective way to reduce detrimental blood loss in trauma and surgical settings.

The Adverse Health Outcomes Of Benzene In Skincare Products, Maddie Olson, Allie Walter

Celebration of Research

Benzene is a known carcinogen commonly used in daily skin care products that could have negative physiological effects on the body.

The risks associated with the use of benzene-containing products have been researched, however, current evidence has not fully differentiated whether the potential negative effects of benzene outweigh the protection that benzene products provide against the development of skin cancer.

Association Between Carpal Tunnel Syndrome And Amyloid Heart Disease May Assist With Early Detection And Reduced Morbidity And Mortality, Kayla Nachbar, Nicole Kirk, Jaclyn Freese

Celebration of Research

Carpal tunnel syndrome may help identify more systemic issues than previously thought. Multiple research studies establish an association between carpal tunnel syndrome and heart disease, most specifically cardiac amyloidosis. This link is of importance as it requires alternative treatment choices to extend life expectancy for those diagnosed with the disease. Based on this analysis of multiple studies, there may be an indication for a screening criterion in those with carpal tunnel syndrome to identify a previously illusive disease before it progresses. History and certain clinical features may add to the utility of this finding to be applied as a screening …

The Impact Of Blood Flow Restriction On Heart Rate And Muscle Activation, Janaya Battles, Rajat Singh, Daniel Swier

Celebration of Research

Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) is a rehabilitation technique used in physical therapy to improve muscle growth in patients. The technique involves using blood cuffs on the limbs to occlude blood flow within the muscles, thus limiting the buildup of muscle growth inhibitors. The current literature provides information regarding these aspects but is limited in providing information regarding the impact of BFR on neural muscular coordination. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine how various pressure levels of the BFR cuffs can impact the muscle activation of the restrained muscles and heart rate. Our results have shown that a …

Energy Drink Consumption In Adolescence Linked To Long Term Health Effects, Grace Eiden, Jenna Borchers, Jill Van Otterloo

Celebration of Research

Caffeine is a substance that is frequently ingested by individuals for a multitude of reasons, most often an energy boost. Recently, caffeine consumption has become popular among the adolescent population. We reviewed 15+ recent studies explaining the adverse effects of caffeine consumption among adolescents such as cognitive function, mental illness, and obesity. Numerous correlations were found including lower scores in several cognitive functions such as vocabulary comprehension, cognitive flexibility, and processing speeds, mental illnesses such as stress, anxiety, and depression, and the immense sugar-content in these beverages being linked to childhood obesity. It is important that healthcare professionals are aware …

Phun With Phages: Discovering Novel Bacteriophages In The Soil, Julia Kutz, Ryan Dodds, Logan Dykstra, Taylor M. Rentschler, Emma Steinhardt, Megan Vangarven, Jacie Vanderwaal, Shayler Vangelder, Byron Noordewier, Sara S. Tolsma

Celebration of Research

We used three bacterial hosts: Mycobacterium smegmatis, Microbacterium foliorum, and Gordonia terrae, to isolate novel bacteriophages from soil samples. We named these phages, created high titer lysates, and purified their DNA genomes. We have archived the high titer lysates at Northwestern College and the University of Pittsburgh. The genomes of three of our phages were sequences at the University of Pittsburgh and we will be sequencing the remaining genomes this summer. Additionally, we are planning to image our phages with transmission electron microscopy at the University of Iowa or Nebraska yet this semester.

The Bear Surgical Technique: A Modern Approach To Acl Repair, Christopher Canu, Jay Determan, Aaron Bosch

Celebration of Research

The Bridge-Enhanced ACL Repair (BEAR) surgical technique is a procedure still in its infancy with many unknowns regarding its effectiveness and clinical outcomes. Research has shown this surgical technique is not only capable of completely healing a mid-substance ACL tear but has been shown to have improved clinical and patient-reported outcomes when compared to traditional ACL reconstruction techniques. The purpose of this article is to review the current status of the literature and clinical implications of the BEAR technique as it compares to traditional ACL reconstruction techniques.

Dexcom & Other Continuous Glucose Monitors Impact Toward Diabetic Care Management & Convenience, Lacey Beyer, Tori Buckler, Colleen Rypkema, Dr. Pam Hulstein

Celebration of Research

Continuous glucose monitor devices, such as the Dexcom, plays a huge role in lowering A1C, advancing individual diabetic management, and preventing diabetic complications. Through the following research, connections have been made between the goal of continuous glucose monitoring devices being more convenient for patients and the positive impact towards managing glucose trends and hemoglobin A1C levels.

Efficacy Of A Low Fodmap Diet And Probiotics In The Treatment Of Irritable Bowel Syndrome In Adults, Melinda Kubesh Pa-S, Kyle Nathan Pa-S, Mariah Nathan Pa-S, Sandra Muyskens Mpas, Pa-C

Celebration of Research

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional bowel disease characterized by abdominal pain in relation to altered bowel habits. Theories regarding the mechanisms underlying IBS include poor absorption of foods containing fermentable oligo-, di-, and monosaccharides and polyols (FODMAPs), leading to a build-up of gas, and an altered intestinal barrier due to the overabundance of pathogenic bacteria. A diet low in FODMAPs and adjuvant therapy with probiotics may reduce symptoms in some individuals. This presentation examines the efficacy of a low FODMAP diet, supplementation with probiotics, and a combination of the two in the treatment of IBS in adults.

Upright Birthing Positions: The Positive Impacts On Labor, Brooke Mciver Pa-S, Jayde Schroder Pa-S, Sydney Schwitters Pa-S, Lori Anderson Mpas, Pa-C

Celebration of Research

The lithotomy position is the most common birthing position currently used in Western medicine. Historically, women used upright birthing positions which include sitting, kneeling, squatting, and standing. This article reviews the advantages of upright birthing positions in comparison to lithotomy. Studies have shown benefits in reduced episiotomies, perineal trauma, and labor time, while providing the most optimal pelvic position.

Increasing Accessibility To Birth Control: Over The Counter Oral Birth Control, Sydney O'Neal Pa-S, Julieta Silva Pa-S, Andrea Crew Pa-C

Celebration of Research

The increasing barriers to the accessibility of birth control have prompted a need for a solution. One long standing solution suggested to diminish the barriers is by removing the prescription requirement of oral contraceptives. Removing the prescription requirement not only breaks down barriers for women without healthcare access but also allows women an opportunity to control their reproduction with more accessibility. Although this solution appears to be concise, the reality is there are many different views regarding offering birth control over the counter, including some healthcare professionals who believe the health risks outweigh the access benefit. On the contrary, those …

Cost Of Transport And Muscle Activity As A Function Of Walking Efficiency At Variable Speed, Grace Van Namen

Celebration of Research

Previous studies have mostly relied on surface EMG signal amplitude to understand the correlation between muscle activity and metabolic rate during walking at various speeds. However, these studies have failed to establish a relationship between EMG signal frequency and gait efficiency (i.e., cost of transport (COT)). The frequency of the EMG signal is an important measure as it provides a better understanding of the motor unit recruitment range.

The goal of our project is to examine the correlation between human metabolic rate and muscle activity, with a particular focus on the frequency of the EMG signals during walking at different …

An Assessment Of Surgical Weight Management Compared To Pharmacological Therapies For Treatment Of Type 2 Diabetes, Olivia Becker Pa-S, Ava Gonsorowski Pa-S, Cassandra Schmiesing Pa-S

Celebration of Research

Diabetes is one of the highest leading causes of death in the United States with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) being the most prevalent type. Despite many methods available for treatment, none have proven to be a curative option for patients diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. Recently, the use of surgical weight management has piqued interest with its ability to cause remission in DM2. This literature review compared the effects of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), laparoscopic gastric bypass, and pharmacotherapies alone. These methods showed improved outcomes of the following: hemoglobin A1c, weight loss, low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, blood pressure, and …

In Newborn Babies, What Are The Risks Of Developing Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding Disorders If Not Provided Im Vitamin K Injection At Birth?, Chelsea Daines-Raasch Pa-S, Morgan Powell Pa-S, Kali Welling Pa-S, Lori Anderson Mpas, Pa-C

Celebration of Research

Vitamin K, which is produced in the large intestines of adults, is naturally lacking in neonates. It is a crucial part in the clotting cascade for activating clotting factors II, VII, IX, and X. For the past several decades, it has been a standard in Western Medicine to give an IM Vitamin K injection to neonates post birth. In recent years, statistics of refusal have continued to grow creating an increased prevalence of Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding Disorders. This study is aimed at exploring the statistics of injection refusal, reasons for refusal, alternative methods to injections, and the importance behind …

Long-Covid Fatigue Treatment Methods, Stephanie Davis, Madysn Grotewold, Jack Johnson, Dr. Pam Hulstein

Celebration of Research

A literature review was conducted between the months of August 2022-November 2022 to explore various proposed treatment methods for patients experiencing long-COVID fatigue. Ten articles focusing on various treatment methods for long-COVID fatigue were reviewed. The purpose of this review was to examine current research regarding treatment of long-COVID fatigue and to suggest, based on the research included in this review, a holistic and individualized approach to long-COVID fatigue treatment. In the following literature review, we provide several treatment options, including pharmacologic, complementary, and alternative methods, that seem to provide relief from long-COVID related fatigue in preliminary studies.