Digital Commons Network^™

Pilot Study: Avoiding Readmissions Of Heart Failure Patients Across Transitions Of Care, Analiza Baldonado

Doctoral Projects

Background: A major problem facing the U.S. healthcare system is avoidable hospital readmissions. Patients with Heart Failure (HF) face variety of barriers to health care and are at higher risk for readmissions. To address this problem, evidence-based interventions focused on safe transition from hospital to home are needed.

Methods: A quality improvement pilot project was implemented to evaluate the feasibility of evidence based interventions in preventing avoidable readmissions. The project setting was in a 900 bed health care system. The descriptive statistical methods were means and frequencies. The Transition Coordinator (TC) enrolled a convenience sample of 30 participants. The evidence …

Factors Contributing To Infant Feeding Practices With Latina Mothers, Diana Cartagena

Theses and Dissertations

Background: An estimated 9.7% of U.S. infants and toddlers are considered overweight. Hispanic infants persistently show higher prevalence rates for being overweight compared to black and white infants. Little is known about factors promoting excessive infant weight gain in Latinos. Purpose: Primary aim of this study was to describe multidimensional factors and maternal feeding practices that may correlate with infant overfeeding in Latina mothers. A secondary aim was to determine whether there was an association between these factors and infant weight gain. Subjects: Sixty-two low-income immigrant Latina mothers and their infants ages 4-12 months receiving assistance through the Special Supplemental …

Transitioning Adolescents With Type I Diabetes To Adult Care, Kathyann Kenny Marsh Phd

Dissertations

Background: Care transitions, defined as hospital discharge or movement from one healthcare setting to another, are currently a major concern for healthcare providers and policy makers alike. These care transitions are occurring in the context of increasingly fragmented care and have been known to result in hospital readmissions, adverse events, and medication errors. The adolescents' transition between pediatric and the adult care system is not only fragmented but occurs at a time when they are most vulnerable and ill equipped for change. Objectives: The purpose of this research was to conduct a feasibility study to examine if the use of …

Palliative And End-Of-Life Care: Precepts And Ethics For The Orthopaedic Population, Cheryl L. Petersen, Susan Breakwell, Margaret Callahan

College of Nursing Faculty Research and Publications

Since the emergence of reports such as the National Consensus Project for Quality Palliative Care (2013) and the National Association of Orthopaedic Nurses Palliative Care Consensus Document (2005), there continues to be a growing recognition of the multiple adverse effects of serious illness and chronic conditions, as well as the potential benefits of receiving palliative or end-of-life care. As modern technology expands its ability to support life, ethical dilemmas may be encountered in the provision of palliative or end-of-life care. Through integration of the precepts of palliative care and consideration of the relevant ethical principles, orthopaedic nurses may best meet …

Feasibility Of Oral Prenatal Probiotics Against Maternal Group B Streptococcus Vaginal And Rectal Colonization, Lisa Hanson, Leona Vandevusse, Megan Duster, Simone Warrack, Nasia Safdar

College of Nursing Faculty Research and Publications

Objective

To examine the effect of an oral prenatal probiotic on group B Streptococcus (GBS) colonization and to demonstrate the feasibility of a larger randomized controlled trial.

Design

This pilot study was an open‐label, two‐group quasi‐experiment.

Setting

An urban central city nurse‐midwifery and wellness center serving a diverse population.

Participants

Ten pregnant participants received the oral probiotic (Florajen3) taken once daily, and 10 participants served as controls.

Methods

A questionnaire on dietary practices, vaginal cleansing, sexual history, and symptoms and GBS colony count samples were taken at 28‐, 32‐, and 36‐weeks gestation.

Results

Participants in the probiotic group reported no …

Coming Home: The Use Of Skilled Nursing Visits On Recently Discharged Nicu Patients, Brittany Mattson

Celebrating Scholarship & Creativity Day (2011-2017)

This research analyzes the facility’s use of skilled nursing visits of premature infants and recommends the best practice to support positive patient outcomes.

The Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative, Kathryn E. Brackett

Senior Honors Theses

Abstract

The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) is a worldwide movement started by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) that is aimed at providing hospitals with a certification that guarantees the best possible patient-centered care for mothers and infants. It focuses on breastfeeding as optimal infant nutrition, and implements strategies to encourage and support mothers to breastfeed their infants exclusively for six months after birth. The Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding are a set of 10 simple, easy to understand guidelines developed by WHO and UNICEF for implementing this initiative in the hospital setting and …

Nutritional Analysis And Anemia In Ecuador, Michael Brizzee, Sondra Heaston

Journal of Undergraduate Research

According to the World Health Organization, anemia affects over 30% of children in Ecuador and in surrounding countries and has been directly linked to decreased test scores, educational performance, and job proficiency. This study is aimed at finding a nutrition correlation and possible causation of anemia in Ecuadorian children ages 7-15. The research is done in conjunction with an anemia study done through the college of nursing looking at other possible causes of anemia including parasites and deficient vitamin intake. Together, these studies have helped to identify possible causes of anemia which can in turn help agencies find economical and …

Women’S Understanding Of The Effects Of Obesity On Pregnancy, Rachel A. Daniel

Senior Honors Theses

Obesity is a serious issue and is becoming a significant problem around the world. Obesity in general causes and complicates many health problems. As obesity increases in the population at large, the incidence of obesity in pregnancy continues to increase. Obesity during pregnancy has been linked in numerous studies to multiple complications, and the issues and risks have been clearly established. Also becoming pregnant or having multiple pregnancies increases the likelihood of developing obesity. Obese women of childbearing age many times do not even know these risks exist. There is a need to educate these women before they become pregnant, …

Childhood Obesity And Familial Hypercholesterolemia: Genetic Diseases That Contribute To Cardiovascular Disease, Alyssa Caudle

Senior Honors Theses

Childhood obesity occurs as the result of an imbalance between caloric intake and energy expenditure. Genetic risk factors for obesity have become an area of research due to its permanency. Mutated genes such as Fat Mass and Obesity Associated (FTO), Leptin (LEP), Leptin Receptor (LEPR), Melanocortin 4 Receptor (MC4R), Adiponectin C1Q and Collagen Domain Containing (ADIPOQ), Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 1 (PCSK1), and Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma (PPARG) all contribute to the development of childhood obesity. In the presence of high cholesterol caused by obesity, the genetic condition known as familial hypercholesterolemia is exacerbated. Familial hypercholesterolemia is caused by a …

Perinatal Distress In Women In Low- And Middle-Income Countries: Allostatic Load As A Framework To Examine The Effect Of Perinatal Distress On Preterm Birth And Infant Health, Shahirose Sadrudin Premji

School of Nursing & Midwifery

In low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), determinants of women's and children's health are complex and differential vulnerability may exist to risk factors of perinatal distress and preterm birth. We examined the contribution of maternal perinatal distress on preterm birth and infant health in terms of infant survival and mother-infant interaction. A critical narrative and interpretive literature review was conducted. Peer-reviewed electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health, CINHAL), grey literature, and reference lists were searched, followed by a consultation exercise. The literature was predominantly from high-income countries. We identify determinants of perinatal distress and explicate changes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, sympathetic, …

Psycap And The Impact On The Development Of Intercultural Sensitivity Of Healthcare Educators: A Mixed Methods Study, Helen A. S. Fagan

Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communication: Dissertations, Theses, and Student Research

This purpose of this explanatory sequential mixed methods study was to examine the intercultural sensitivity development process of faculty and staff at a health sciences college in the Midwest. In the quantitative phase, this study investigated changes in intercultural sensitivity over a three year period, along with the relationship between developmental level of intercultural sensitivity (as measured by Intercultural Development Inventory [IDI] [Hammer, Bennett, & Wiseman, 2003]) of participants and Psychological Capital (PsyCap, a multidimensional construct consisting of hope, efficacy, resiliency, and optimism [Luthans, Youssef, & Avolio, 2007]). In the qualitative phase (Case Study) data collection and analysis further explored …

The Relationship Between Weight Locus Of Control, Self-Rated Abilities For Health Practices, Selfcompassion And Weight Loss Outcome Among Adults Post-Bariatric Surgery, Gina M. Kearney

Theses & Dissertations

Overweight and obesity have become growing threats to our nation’s health. Bariatric surgery, although its incidence has been reported to have reached a plateau, remains the most effective weight loss therapy available for the extremely (morbidly) obese. However, significant weight regain is often observed and evidence of weight loss maintenance has not been clearly or consistently demonstrated. Through the use of Self-Determination Theory as a theoretical underpinning and guiding model, the purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between psychological variables (weight locus of control, self-rated abilities for health practices, and self-compassion) and weight loss outcome (downward change …

Caring For Caregivers: Assessing Grief And Coping Of Pediatric Palliative Care Nurses, Sophia Undseth

2014-2016 Undergraduate

The definition and implementation of pediatric palliative care has been increasingly studied in recent years. Within the United States, where children generally have adequate nutrition and access to advanced technology, the population of dying children is relatively small. Nevertheless, the number of pediatric patients suffering from both cancer and other chronic and life-threatening diseases has increased. While there has been a focus upon the need for support of the child and the family, the emotional response and grief of the caregivers, especially nurses, has often gone unnoticed. The five different kinds of loss that may be experienced by caregivers help …

Cuba’S Maternal-Child Health, Colleen Marzilli

Nursing Faculty Publications and Presentations

The purpose is to elucidate the differences between the Cuban and United States (U.S.) maternal-child health delivery systems by providing a descriptive, retrospective evaluation based on a convenience sample of data gathered through observations with Cuban public health officials, including physicians, nurses, and citizens. U.S.and Cuban data were analyzed using available United Nations data. In Cuba, there are several programs that contribute to excellent maternal-child health outcomes. Two health interventions for the mother and child are regarded as “hygiene” and include the maternity home and vaccination program. Maternity homes provide comprehensive, residential care for at-risk mothers until the onset of …

Implementation Of A Mhealth Program Within A Homeless Population Of Young Mothers, Maureen Byrnes

Seton Hall University DNP Final Projects

Purpose: Despite major medical advancements and education, more than 500,000 babies are born prematurely and an estimated 28,000 infants die before their first birthday annually (www.marchofdimes.com/peristats). New Jersey’s infant mortality rate appears exemplary when compared to the United States overall infant mortality rate. Yet, New Jersey’s infant mortality rate, preterm birth rate and low birth rate by mother’s race reveal a far greater risk for infants born to a mother who is African American (www.nj.gov/health/epht/outcome.shtml). The need for innovative approaches to improving New Jersey’s maternal-infant health is paramount. Mobile phones may provide an appropriate means of …

Factors Affecting Health Promotion Lifestyle Behaviors Among Arab American Women, Kholoud Khalil Phd

Dissertations

Guided by Pender and colleagues' (2006) revised health promotion model (HPM), this descriptive correlational study was designed to explore the relationships between personal factors (comprised of sociodemographic factors, degree of acculturation, and perceived stress), perceived health self-efficacy, perceived social support, and health promotion lifestyle behaviors (HPLBs) among a group of Arab American women (AAW) living in Southern California. A second purpose was to explore the psychometric properties of the translated version of the perceived health competence scale (PHCS). A convenience sample of 267 AAW were administered a paper copy of a self-reported survey. Four of the study's five standardized measures …

Supporting Labor Progress Toward Physiologic Birth, Lisa Hanson, Leona Vandevusse

College of Nursing Faculty Research and Publications

No abstract provided.

Chhs March/April 2014 E-Newsletter, Dr. John Bonaguro, Dean, Vashon S. Wells, Editor, Wku College Of Health & Human Services

College of Health & Human Services Publications

No abstract provided.

Developing The Value Proposition For The Role Of The Registered Nurse In Care Coordination And Transition Management In Ambulatory Care Settings, Sheila A. Haas, Beth Ann Swan

Department of Nursing papers and presentations

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (2010) established clear provisions for Patient-Centered Medical Homes and Accountable Care Organizations. In both, care coordination and transition management are methods to provide safe, high quality care to at-risk populations such as patients with multiple chronic conditions. The emphasis on care coordination and transition management offers opportunities for nurses to work at their full potential as an integral part of the interprofessional team. Development of a model for the registered nurse in care coordination and transition management provides nurses the opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to be a resource to …

Smoking Cessation In Primary Care At The Sequatchie County Health Department: A Practice Change Proposal, Joy Hamilton

DNP Research Projects

No abstract provided.

Developing The Value Proposition For Registered Nurse Care Coordination And Transition Management Role In Ambulatory Care Settings, Sheila A. Haas, Beth Ann Swan

Nursing: School of Nursing Faculty Publications and Other Works

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (2010) established clear provisions for Patient-Centered Medical Homes and Accountable Care Organizations. In both, care coordination and transition management are methods to provide safe, high-quality care to at-risk populations such as patients with multiple chronic conditions. The emphasis on care coordination and transition management offers opportunities for nurses to work at their full potential as an integral part of the interprofessional team. Development of a model for the registered nurse in care coordination and transition manage- ment provides nurses the opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to be a resource to …

Determinants Of Physical Activity In Arab American Children, Wearn Alkhatib Phd

Dissertations

Physical activity is an integral part of preventing and managing childhood and adolescent obesity. Lack of regular physical activity has negative impact on physical and psychosocial health. Arab Americans (AAs), one of the most rapidly growing minorities in United States, tend to have a high prevalence of obesity and low participation in physical activity. The purpose of this study was to describe determinants of physical activity, including self-efficacy, social support, physical environment, and selected demographics among AA children in Southern California. A descriptive correlational study using a cross sectional design was conducted. Self-administered questionnaires were completed by children (N=206) recruited …

Mentoring Nursing Students In A Nutritional Improvement Study In Ecuador, Sheri P. Palmer

Journal of Undergraduate Research

The nutritional improvement study in Ecuador has been a worthwhile endeavor that has enabled many nursing students to participate. Students have been able to participate in actual data collection and data entry, as well as seeing and discussing results from previous years of the study. Students work with the schoolchildren with whom this study affects and can be a vital link in the progress of the research. The mentoring of these students in this important research work has helped them realize the significance of improving global health.

Mentoring Nursing Students In A Nutritional Improvement Study In Ecuador, Sheri P. Palmer

Journal of Undergraduate Research

The nutritional improvement study in Ecuador has been a worthwhile endeavor that has enabled many nursing students to participate. Students have been able to participate in actual data collection and data entry, as well as seeing and discussing results from previous years of the study. Students work with the schoolchildren with whom this study affects and can be a vital link in the progress of the research. The mentoring of these students in this important research work has helped them realize the significance of improving global health.

The Association Of Depression And Anxiety With Glycemic Control Among Mexican Americans With Diabetes Living Near The U.S.-Mexico Border, Darla E. Kendzor, Minxing Chen, Belinda M. Reininger, Michael S. Businelle, Diana W. Stewart, Susan P. Fisher-Hoch, Anne R. Rentfro, David W. Wetter, Joseph B. Mccormick

School of Nursing Faculty Publications

Background

The prevalence of diabetes is alarmingly high among Mexican American adults residing near the U.S.-Mexico border. Depression is also common among Mexican Americans with diabetes, and may have a negative influence on diabetes management. Thus, the purpose of the current study was to evaluate the associations of depression and anxiety with the behavioral management of diabetes and glycemic control among Mexican American adults living near the border.

Methods

The characteristics of Mexican Americans with diabetes living in Brownsville, TX (N = 492) were compared by depression/anxiety status. Linear regression models were conducted to evaluate the associations of depression …

Processed Sugars And Coronary Heart Disease, Sonya Lovingood

Graduate Research Projects

No abstract provided.

Individual Characteristics And Relocation Factors Affecting Adjustment Among Relocated American And Egyptian Older Adults, Abir K. Bekhet, Jaclene A. Zauszniewski

College of Nursing Faculty Research and Publications

Worldwide, the population of elders is increasing significantly. Relocation can be a positive or a negative experience, depending on many factors, including culture. The purpose of this study is to compare individual characteristics (age, gender, marital status, education, perceived health status, activities of daily living), relocation factors (movement preparation, time passed since relocation, closeness of prior home to the present, and whether relocation was from home or another facility), and adjustment in relocated American and Egyptian elders. This secondary analysis study merged data from two cross-sectional descriptive studies of a 104 elders relocated to retirement communities in Northeast Ohio and …

Examining Factors That Contribute To The Application Of Improved Nutritional Practices In Guatemala, Kim Proffit, Ashley Jensen, Dr. Vickie Johnsen

Journal of Undergraduate Research

Malnutrition is a significant problem in Guatemala. Malnutrition, and its related diseases, are part of most diagnoses of children in the hospital regardless of the reason for admission. Ruel, Habicht, Rasmussen & Martorell (1996, p. 671) report the severity of the problem, “Guatemala has one of the highest prevalences of stunting in the world.” In 2001 UNICEF reported that 29% of Guatemalan children under 5 years of age were underweight, 46% were stunted and 3% were wasting. Even in countries suffering with severe malnutrition, Zeitlin, Ghassemi, and Mansour, (1990) suggest that some children who live in poverty and have severely …

Discharge Education In The Emergency Department: Are We Effectively Teaching Chest Pain Patients?, Emily Edwards Nishiyama

Nursing Theses and Capstone Projects

Millions of individuals visit the emergency department (ED) each year with complaints of chest pain. Many chest pain patients do not have an underlying condition of Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) but the health and well-being of these patients is indispensable. Research has indicated soaring costs, an increased demand in medical resources, and an increasingly poor quality of life for these patients after discharge. Although research encourages quality education at discharge, very few studies have been conducted on ED discharge education for non-ACS chest pain patients. Using a cross-sectional descriptive research design, this quantitative study discovered the frequency of education provided …