The Impact Of Night Shift On New Nurses: Effects On Mental Health And Work-Life Balance, Avery Windham, Abby Maruskin, Elizabeth Yoder

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

This research examines the impact of night shift schedules on new nurses' mental health and work-life balance as they transition into professional practice. The transition from nursing school to the workforce presents challenges that are further compounded by shift work, which can disrupt circadian rhythms and contribute to stress, fatigue, and reduced job satisfaction. The purpose of this research is to evaluate how starting on night shift versus day shift influences nurses’ self-evaluation of work-life balance within their first year of practice. This systematic review synthesizes findings from peer-reviewed sources to assess the physical, emotional, and professional consequences of night …

Magnifying Mental Health In The Perinatal Population: A Systematic Review, Kasey E. Arnold, Alyssa M. Maki

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Pregnant individuals often experience significant anxiety, which can negatively affect both pregnancy and fetal outcomes. This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of pharmacologic versus non-pharmacologic anxiety-relieving interventions, primarily focusing on the labor period. The PICOT question is: In perinatal patients, do non-pharmacologic anxiety-relieving measures, compared to pharmacologic anxiety-relieving measures, have a greater impact on ease of delivery and overall mental health during pregnancy and the perinatal period? PRISMA (2020) guidelines were used with inclusion criteria of human subjects, English language, and published within the last six years. Databases included PubMed, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library. Twenty-three studies were analyzed to examine …

Enhancing Nursing Education To Improve Care For Women Experiencing A Substance Use Disorder During Pregnancy, Sadie Caddell

UNH URC Open (2026 and after)

Enhancing Nursing Education to Improve Care for Women Experiencing a Substance Use Disorder During Pregnancy

Enteral Nutrition Guidelines Improve Critically Ill Patients’ Outcomes: A Quasiexperimental Study, Marwa Abdo, Sara Elsayed Hegazy

Nursing

Background: Optimal nutritional support is a fundamental element of treatment for critically ill patients. Adherence to evidence-based enteral nutrition guidelines is essential to promote patient care and prevent potential complications. Objectives: To assess the effectiveness of enteral nutrition guidelines in improving critically ill patients’ outcomes. Method: A quasiexperimental study evaluated 68 critically ill patients divided into 2 groups. The intervention group received their nutrition based on the evidence-based enteral nutrition guidelines, while the control group received their nutrition based on the unit’s routine care. The study was conducted in the surgical intensive care units of Mansoura Emergency Hospital in Egypt. …

Enhancing Diabetes Self-Management And Nutrition Literacy In South Stockton, California, Yessenia Bejarano, Carissa Chothia, Madisyn Widmer, Angela Lim

ELMSN E-Portfolio. A collection of Scholarly and Creative Works

Diabetes mellitus and food insecurity contribute to poor health outcomes among underserved adults participating in the Healthy Food Rx program at the Stockton Emergency Food Bank in South Stockton, California. Limited access to culturally relevant diabetes education and ongoing self-management resources may hinder effective diabetes management among food-insecure adults. This quality improvement project evaluated a four-week culturally responsive diabetes education program consisting of weekly education sessions, hands-on blood pressure and blood glucose monitoring, and a QR code-enabled Linktree resource platform. The intervention included weekly diabetes education sessions, hands-on monitoring of blood pressure and blood glucose, and access to bilingual digital …

Breast Milk Versus Formula Feeding In The Development Of Necrotizing Enterocolitis Among Nicu Infants: An Integrative Review, Mackenzie Jameson, Faye Li, Liudmila Ryzhova, Mia Smith

Master's Projects

Introduction/Question: NEC is a serious condition characterized by the death of intestinal tissue, primarily affecting premature infants or those with low birth weight. The incidence of NEC poses a significant concern in neonatal healthcare due to its substantial mortality risk, particularly among vulnerable populations. This condition can lead to various complications, including sepsis, nutritional deficiencies, delays in growth and development, and, in severe cases, death. NEC not only impacts the health of the infant but also affects the emotional well-being and bonding experiences of parents. Despite advancements in neonatal care, the rate of NEC has increased, highlighting the need …

Evaluation Of A Nicotine Prevention Program In A Third Grade Classroom, Jennifer A. Pile

DNP Projects

Purpose: The purpose of this project was to increase knowledge of nicotine products and promote negative perceptions of nicotine use among third-grade students through early prevention education.

Background: Prevention is key and to prevent nicotine use, there must be an educational program with that aim in a much younger population. Third grade encompasses 8-, 9-, and 10-year-olds. This group is in the middle childhood stage and begin more complex thinking and problem-solving skills. There is physical and emotional development among this group.

Methods: This is a quasi-experimental study among third grade students in Breckinridge County Kentucky with pretest and …

Seasonal And Geographic Patterns Of Gastroschisis In Canada: Protective Effect Of Periconceptional Sunlight Exposure, Shiliang Liu, Shin Jie Yong, Dunjin Chen, Gavin C. Hughes, Claude L. Hughes

Department of Medicine Faculty Publications

Background: Gastroschisis is a right-sided, full-thickness defect with extra-amnionic herniation of abdominal contents directly into the amniotic cavity. The causes of gastroschisis remain obscure. We hypothesized that limited periconceptional sunlight exposure might lead to insufficient vitamin D during fetal development and play a role in gastroschisis etiology.

Methods: We conducted a population-based cohort study of infants conceived in Canada between April 2006 and March 2020. We used winter months (i.e., November and December) and northern geographic latitudes as indicators of insufficient sunlight exposure, while summer months (July and August) and southern geographic latitudes were considered as reference. We examined the …

Preventing G-J Tube Dislodgement - A Device And Communication Innovation, Sarah Clark

2026

Abstract

The Problem: G/J tube dislodgement is a frequent complication in pediatric patients.

Leads to:

• Emergency department visits
• Hospital admissions
• Delays in nutrition/medication

Impact on Patients & Families:

• IV placement (traumatic)
• Radiation exposure
• Overnight hospital stays

Impact on Nurses & System:

• Increased workload (admissions, coordination)
• Occupied inpatient beds for stable patients
• Inefficient care processes

Aims/Objectives Aim: Reduce unplanned G/J tube dislodgements and related hospital utilization.

Objectives: Develop a breakaway connector prototype

Implementation and Evaluation:
Setting: Pediatric inpatient & outpatient system
Participants: Nurses (bedside, GI, IR), caregiver, innovation team
Process: Roundtable discussions → identified workflow gaps Communication/workflow audit Developed …

Investigating The Role Of Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine For Cancer Symptom Management In Older Adults: A Rapid Review, Isabelle C. Karshner

Honors Undergraduate Theses

Background: Patients with cancer often experience symptoms related to disease, complications, and treatment. One potential method of alleviating these symptoms is traditional Chinese herbal medications (TCHM). This rapid review explores the role of traditional Chinese herbal medications in treating cancer-related symptoms in older adults.

Purpose: The purpose of this rapid review is to gain and provide a better understanding of the effects of TCHM on cancer-symptom management in the older adult population. This review explores the association between TCHM and effects on cancer symptoms in older adults, including interactions, toxicity, and signs/symptoms of TCHM use that may be useful information …

Empowering Caregivers, Protecting Patients: An Ambulatory Central Line Quality Improvement Initiative For Education And Follow-Up, Elizabeth Martinez, Belinda Bordeaux, Stephanie Langevin, Cristina Herrera, Mary Smith, Merissa Doyle, Barbara Stein, Kimberly Poshar, Marissa Dunlap, Allison Silva, Eric Werner

Department of Pediatrics Faculty Publications

Introduction: Preventing ambulatory central line-associated bloodstream infections (A-CLABSIs) is challenging due to inconsistent education, follow-up, and home care practices. Pediatric intestinal failure (IF) patients are particularly vulnerable. This institution aimed to decrease its IF A-CLABSI rate by 25% within 2 years through a standardized, step-by-step central line care education program.

Methods: Using the Toyota problem-solving method, the team reviewed data and performed a root cause analysis of the prioritized problem, implementing a 2-phase education program. Phase 1 delivered in-hospital education using videos, handouts, and hands-on teaching with skill demonstration. The existing pediatric central line skills class was expanded and offered …

Clinical Challenges Associated With Enhancing Hypertension Among The Underserved African American Population, Ashley Richardson

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Scholarly Projects

Background 

African Americans face a significantly higher prevalence of hypertension, tend to develop complications at younger ages, and have disproportionately higher mortality rates. Key social determinants of health (SDoH)—including food deserts, unequal access to healthcare, and geographic disparities in healthcare resources—contribute to these ongoing inequities. Addressing both systemic and individual barriers is crucial for effective hypertension management.

Objective

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of a culturally relevant, community-based intervention designed to reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure among Black adults with uncontrolled hypertension.

Methods 

Quality improvement (QI) initiatives typically employ multicomponent, equity-focused models. The primary components of …

Coalition Building And Citizen Science For Radon Risk Reduction, Stacy Stanifer, Kathy Rademacher, Whitney Sedio, Naomi Cheek, David Gross, Caitlyn Curtis, Amanda Thaxton-Wiggins, Mary Kay Rayens, Ellen J. Hahn

Nursing Faculty Publications

We evaluated the implementation of local coalitions led in partnership with citizen scientists, community-based organizations, and public libraries in four rural communities to lower exposure to radon in the home. The objectives were to (1) describe the Reach-Effectiveness-Adoption-Implementation-Maintenance (RE-AIM) of four radon coalitions, and (2) compare RE-AIM factors among citizen scientists who participated in the coalitions and those who did not. A larger community-engaged research project embedded coalition building using a citizen science approach. Three of the four coalitions focused on health and wellness more broadly (18–34 members); one focused solely on radon (10 members). Coalition membership and activities varied …

The Experience Of Homelessness Among Older Adults In Bhutan - A Narrative Inquiry Study, Phuntsho Om

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

A shift in the demographics of homelessness started to occur in the 1900s, with a significant increase in the number of middle-aged or elderly men and women being recognised as a part of the homeless population. The rising urgent global concern of homelessness of older adults necessitates a deeper understanding of the lived experience and holistic well-being of these marginalised adults. This thesis aimed to explore the phenomenon of homelessness of older adults in Bhutan, which is an often neglected topic in both national and international gerontological research.

Employing narrative inquiry within the constructivist approach as articulated by Pino Gravidia …

Preventing G/J Tube Dislodgement: A Device And Communication Innovation, Sarah Clark

2026

The Problem
G/J tube dislodgement is a frequent complication in pediatric patients
Leads to:

• Emergency department visits
• Hospital admissions
• Delays in nutrition/medication

Impact on Patients & Families:

• IV placement (traumatic)
• Radiation exposure
• Overnight hospital stays

Impact on Nurses & System:

• Increased workload (admissions, coordination)
• Occupied inpatient beds for stable patients
• Inefficient care processes

Aims/Objectives
Aim: Reduce unplanned G/J tube dislodgements and related hospital utilization.
Objectives: Develop a breakaway connector prototype

Implementation and Evaluation
Setting: Pediatric inpatient & outpatient system
Participants: Nurses (bedside, GI, IR), caregiver, innovation team
Process:
Roundtable discussions → identified workflow gaps
Communication/workflow audit
Developed device …

A Quality Improvement Initiative To Decrease The Length Of Stay In The Post-Anesthesia Care Unit For Children Undergoing Iv Anesthetic Inductions For Gastrointestinal Procedures, Kaylee Bahret Bangs

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports (ETD)

Background: Pediatric patients at WVU Medicine Children’s (WVU-CH) are emerging slowly from anesthetics during diagnostic gastrointestinal procedures which delays discharge from the post-anesthesia care unit. The cumulative effect is an increased length of hospital stay and the associated increases in costs. This project explores a novel method to reduce the amount of medication pediatric patients receive by using virtual reality goggles as a nonpharmacologic intervention to reduce preprocedural anxiety.

Purpose: This quality improvement project seeks to reduce time spent in PACU for children undergoing IV induction GI procedures by using preoperative virtual reality (VR) headsets during IV placement …

Improving Access To Care And Utilization Of Telehealth In Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients Through Scheduling Interventions: A Quality Improvement Project, Sarah R. Bergstrom

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports (ETD)

Abstract

Improving Access to Care and Utilization of Telehealth in Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients Through Scheduling Interventions: A Quality Improvement Project

Sarah Bergstrom

Introduction/Background. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) tends to affect pediatric patients with a more severe, aggressive phenotype as compared to adults. Following closely with a pediatric gastroenterologist (GI) is best practice to manage pediatric IBD. However, pediatric subspecialty clinics are generally located within academic institutions in urban areas. Patients in rural areas often have limited access to pediatric GI care, and poor access to care is associated with increased risk of poor disease control. Telehealth subspecialty …

Risk Factors Associated With Delayed Secretory Activation In A Cohort Of Nulliparous Women In Western Australia, Cassandra Cuffe, Giglia, Julie Hill, Matthew N. Cooper, Anita M. Moorhead, Joshua R. Lewis, Deborah Ireson, Therese A. O’Sullivan

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Delayed secretory activation can negatively impact maternal and child health through increasing the risk of early cessation of breastfeeding. Early cessation of breastfeeding is known to be associated with increased health risks. Aim: To determine the occurrence of, and risk factors associated with, delayed secretory activation in nulliparous women in Western Australia. Methods: This analysis used a subset of participants (n = 183) enrolled in a multicentre trial. Nulliparous low-risk pregnant women were enrolled between 28–32 weeks’ gestation and followed until 1 week after birth. The association between self-reported delayed secretory activation status (onset 4 days or more postpartum) …

Paternal Age Is Associated With Offspring Bone Health—But Not Soft Tissue Composition Or Fracture: The Vitamin D In Pregnancy Study, Mia A. Percival, Kara B. Anderson, Julie A. Pasco, Marc Sim, Sarah M. Hosking, John D. Wark, Natalie K. Hyde

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Summary: Emerging evidence suggests that paternal health may be associated with offspring later life heath. In this study, advanced paternal age at childbirth was associated with poorer offspring bone mineral density and content at age 11 years. These findings suggest that paternal age may impact childhood musculoskeletal development, warranting further investigation. Introduction: Maternal health during pregnancy is known to impact offspring’s later life health. However, emerging evidence suggests that paternal factors may also be important. Advanced paternal age is associated with poorer offspring outcomes, yet few studies assess musculoskeletal outcomes. This study investigated the association between paternal age at childbirth …

Trends And Indications For Cesarean Section In The Origins Birth Cohort, Kristjana Einarsdottir, Lisa Gibson, Sarah Whalan, Jacqueline Davis, Laurence Amy Payette, Ravisha Srinivasjois, Desiree T. Silva

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Objective: Cesarean section (CS) rates have increased substantially in Australia, with particularly high use observed in private maternity care and for pre-labor CS. The aim of the present study was to describe the CS rates and the clinical indications for pre-labor CS in the ORIGINS birth cohort.

Methods: This study analyzed data from the ORIGINS birth cohort, a large birth cohort in Western Australia, including 9473 births occurring at Joondalup Health Campus between 2016 and 2024. Rates of CS and pre-labor CS were compared across study periods (2016–2020 and 2021–2024) and by facility type (public vs. private). Indications for pre-labor …

Scope Of Nursing Work And Models Of Service Delivery In Australian Primary And Secondary Schools: A Scoping Review, Anita Moyes, Chelsey Williams, Elizabeth Rankin, Imelda Hoodcamp, Eliza Jane Potter, Brent A. Hayward

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Aim: To map the scope of nursing work and models of service delivery in Australian primary and secondary schools for children aged 3–18 years. Design: Scoping Review. Data Sources: A search of CINAHL, Medline, PsycINFO, ERIC, Informit and Google was conducted in August 2024 for peer reviewed, non-peer reviewed and grey literature giving insight into nursing work in primary and secondary Australian schools in urban, regional and remote areas of all Australian states and territories. Methods: The review employed Johanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews and reported the findings in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews …

Joint Cancer Nurses Society Of Australia–Clinical Oncology Society Of Australia Position Statement On The Contribution Of Nurses To Cancer Survivorship Care In Australia, Raymond J. Chan, Gemma Mcerlean, Fiona Crawford-Williams, Carla Thamm, Carmel O'Kane, Nicolas H. Hart, Gillian Blanchard, Anne Mellon, Justin Hargreaves, Mei Krishnasamy, Michael Jefford

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Aim: To describe the development, consultation, and endorsement process for a joint position statement from the Cancer Nurses Society of Australia (CNSA) and the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA) regarding the contribution of nurses to cancer survivorship care in Australia. Methods: A development team of nursing and oncology experts (n = 11) was convened in September 2025. The draft position statement was informed by key literature, including the COSA Model of Survivorship Care, Australian Cancer Plan, a modified Delphi study defining nurse capabilities in survivorship care, and an overview of systematic reviews on nurse-led care models. A consultation survey …

It's The Most Diverse Job I’Ve Ever Had: What Do Registered Nurses Working In Australian Schools Do?, Anita Moyes

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Although nurses have been working in Australian schools for many decades, research has focused primarily on narrow aspects of clinical practice or service delivery in specific regions. The aim of this study was to identify the domains of practice registered nurses report in a typical working day in Australian schools, using interview data from a national sample. Forty-five nurses working in government and nongovernment schools in every state and territory of Australia participated. Interviews were analyzed using inductive content analysis ( Elo & Kyngas, 2008). Six distinct domains of practice characterized nursing work in Australian schools: (i) responding to diverse …

The Therapeutic And Physiological Effects Of Citrus Peel Extraction On Helicobacter Pylori Bacteria, Sara Saeb Rasheed, Rawnaq Z. Fadhil, Marwah Amer Qamandar, Salah M.M. Al-Chalabi

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Medical Sciences

The antibiotic resistance has emerged as a growing international concern affecting not only human health but also the environment, animal population, and global economy. The increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance poses a serious and escalating threat to public health. This problem is further exacerbated by the limited development of new antibiotic, high production costs, and risks about its side effects. Identifying novel antibiotic agents is crucial for managing fungal and bacterial infection. Consequently, numerous natural compound have been investigated as potential alternative therapies. Plant extracts are valuable source of bioactive compounds and represent a promising strategy to control pathogenic microorganisms. …

Staff Education On Evidence-Based Practice On External Factors That Impact Management Of Chronic Hypertension In African American Patients, Stella Ngozi Paul

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

This doctoral staff education project was developed to address a significant gap in nursing practice, specifically the limited knowledge of outpatient clinical staff regarding cultural, social, and health literacy factors that influence the management of chronic hypertension in African American (AA) patients. Through this project, I aimed to equip clinical staff with evidence-based, culturally competent strategies to promote equitable, patient-centered care. This project was guided by the following practice-focused question: Can an evidence-based practice educational session on how external factors impact the management of chronic hypertension in the AA population enhance staff knowledge and understanding? Using the analysis, design, development, …

Efikasi Diri Dalam Melakukan Diet Sehat Pada Masyarakat Desa Cipacing, Sumedang, Hilmi Khairun Nisa, Neti Juniarti, Adelse Prima Mulya

Perilaku dan Promosi Kesehatan : Indonesian Journal of Health Promotion and Behavior

Background. Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) account for 57 million deaths (71%) worldwide and 73% of all deaths in Indonesia. Eating habits are one of the factors contributing to the incidence of NCDs. In the process of improving a healthy lifestyle, including a healthy diet, self-confidence or self-efficacy in maintaining a healthy diet is necessary.

Objective. This study aims to identify the level of self-efficacy in maintaining a healthy diet among the community in Cipacing Village, Sumedang.

Methods. This study was conducted using a quantitative descriptive research design among the community of Cipacing Village, Sumedang Regency, West Java. The sample was …

Understanding Breastfeeding Practices In Tennessee: Goals, Duration, And Reasons For Discontinuation, Amir Alakaam, Chia-Lin Chang, Hannah Jeffery

Journal of Appalachian Health

Introduction: Breastfeeding is widely recognized as the optimal source of infant nutrition, offering many health benefits.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine goals, exclusivity, and duration of breastfeeding and explore factors that influence breastfeeding practices among individuals in Tennessee (TN).

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among individuals (N = 1,249). Participants were recruited and data were collected from June – September 2021. The data were entered and analyzed from September 2022 – March 2023. Descriptive statistics, chi-square test, and ANOVA were used to analyze the data and identify associations between variables.

Results: About 32% of the …

Adapter Changes Of Central Line Patients On Total Parenteral Nutrition, Courtney Erin Schappell

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) remain a significant and preventable patient safety issue, especially among hospitalized patients receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Patients on TPN face a higher risk of infection due to the high glucose content of the solution and the frequent access required for central line therapy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality have recognized CLABSI prevention as a national priority. In addition, there is emphasis on high-risk groups like patients receiving TPN. The Infusion Therapy Standards of Practice, an evidence-based guideline, recommends catheter care, including timely adapter (i.e., …

Implementing Sbar-Based Staff Education And A Diabetes-Specific Discharge Checklist To Reduce Patient Identification Errors During Handoffs, Maragarate Nesoa

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

This doctoral project was an organization change initiative using staff education to reduce patient identification errors during handoffs among older adults with Type 2 Diabetes (T2DM). Misidentification during transitions of care contributes to medication errors, unnecessary readmissions, and preventable adverse events

Global Prevalence Of Hyperhomocysteinemia Among Adults With Hypertension: A Narrative Review, Wangkheimayum Ashalata Devi Phd Scholar, Dr. Melita Sheilini Associate Professor, Dr. Rinchen Doma Bhutia Assistant Professor, Corresponding Author: Dr.Melita Sheilini, Associate Professor,Department Of Medical-Surgical Nursing, Manipal College Of Nursing, Manipal Academy Of Higher Education, Manipal, Udupi District, Karnataka, India.Contact Number- 8095976561. Email Id: [email protected]

Manipal Journal of Nursing and Health Sciences

Background: Elevated blood homocysteine (Hcy) levels are a hallmark of hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy), a metabolic disorder that is known to be a risk factor for cardiovascular illnesses. It greatly raises the risk of vascular problems when combined with hypertension (HTN). However, there are few statistics on the prevalence of HHcy in individuals with HTN. Objective: The present review aims to estimate the global prevalence of HHcy among adults with HTN and to highlight regional disparities, associated risk factors, and implications for clinical practice. Method: The comprehensive literature search was conducted using the PubMed and Google Scholar search engines. Studies published in …