Digital Commons Network^™

The Relationship Between Select Demographic Characteristics And Body Mass Index Among Native Hawaiian And Other Pacific Islander Caregiving Adults, Jane Lassetter Phd, Rn, Lauren Clark Phd, Rn, Faan, Sharla E. Morgan Fnp, Lora Beth Brown Phd, Gwen Vanservellen Phd, Rn, Faan, Katrina Duncan Fnp, Betsy S. Hopkins

Faculty Publications

Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islanders (NHOPIs) are people with genetic origins in Hawaii, Samoa, or other Pacific Islands (Hixson, Hepler, & Kim, 2012). NHOPI prevalence of overweight or obesity is among the highest in the world. Nauru, a Pacific Island nation, is considered the most obese country in the world with an overweight and obesity prevalence of 93% (WHO, 2011). Hawaii’s overall prevalence of overweight or obesity is 52.1%, but the prevalence for Native Hawaiian residents is 69.6% (Hawaii Department of Health, 2011). Inasmuch as NHOPIs are one of the fastest growing ethnic groups in the U.S. (Hixson et …

Improving An Outpatient Diabetes Program Telephone Follow-Up Process: Evaluating Its Impact On Glycosylated Hemoglobin Levels, Joan B. Niemczewski

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Capstones

Telephone follow-up for diabetes self-management is used to facilitate ongoing support for individuals striving to maintain a healthy lifestyle. With the use of telephone follow-up after Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME), key concepts can be emphasized and goal reinforcement can occur. When successfully managed, improved glycemic control occurs, as evidenced by reductions in glycosylated hemoglobin (A1C) levels. A review of the literature surrounding this topic and description of a capstone scholarly project utilizing findings from the literature to create an evidence-based telephone follow-up pilot study are included. Findings from this study did not reveal statistically significant reductions in A1C levels with …

Assessing Quality Outcomes In A Behavioral Oncology Program: Capstone Project, Elizabeth M. Archer-Nanda

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Capstones

The landscape of cancer care has changed dramatically over the past several decades. An illness that was once often fatal, now represents both an acute life threatening illness and a chronic condition. While there have been tremendous advancements in the treatment of the physiological aspects of cancer, management of related psychosocial and emotional issues have not seen this same progress. Limited information exists related to both the evaluation and outcome metrics associated with the screening and management of psychiatric sequelae after referral to specialized psychiatric services in cancer patient populations. This capstone project focused on (a) implementation of consistent use …

Effects Of Wii Fit™ Plus Cardiovascular Exercises On Cognitive Function In Older Adults: Feasibility Study., Ifeanyichukwu Chinedozi

Undergraduate Honors Theses

Cognitive decline increasingly plague older adults. Although various studies have correlated aerobic exercises with decreased incidence of the development and progression of cognitive deterioration in older adults, there is no evidence as to whether or not the Wii Fit Plus Rhythm Kung-Fu, Hula-Hoop and the Wii Just Dance can improve the cognitive function of older adults as measured by the Standardized Mini Mental State Examination (SMMSE) instrument. A descriptive study design was used to explore the feasibility of implementing an aerobic exercise program for older adults in an assisted living facility using these Wii games, and evaluating whether or not …

Efficacy Of Motivational Interviewing And Centering To Increase Physical Activity And Dietary Adherence In African Americans With Pre-Hypertension And Hypertension, Chioma U. Okereke

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Translational and Clinical Research Projects

Abstract Title: Efficacy of Motivational Interviewing and Centering to Increase Physical Activity and Dietary Adherence in African Americans with Pre-hypertension and Hypertension.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the knowledge and self-care behaviors of African Americans necessary to prevent the development of hypertension or to improve the control of all ready existing hypertension. Motivational interviewing was used to identify and address barriers to lifestyle modifications. The feasibility of using a Centering Care Model to deliver interactive educational sessions to empower individuals to take an active role in their health care was evaluated.

Significance of the Problem: African …

The Design, Implementation And Evaluation Of A Technology Solution To Improve Discharge Planning Communication In A Complex Patient Population, Susan M. Manfredi

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Projects

Unnecessary delays in discharge planning can extend the length of stay (LOS) and add non-reimbursable days for socially and medically complex patients thereby increasing the financial burden to healthcare organizations. The literature supports enhanced discharge communication strategies and the use of checklists to facilitate safe and timely discharges. Following root cause analyses of significant discharge delays, one hospital identified gaps in communication as key precursors associated with discharge planning breakdown when discharging patients to skilled nursing facilities. Review of these events demonstrated the need for concurrent communication strategies between multidisciplinary care team members in planning for complex discharges.

Following a …

Adherence To Guidelines For The Screening And Treatment Of Vitamin D Deficiency In Elderly Patients, Alyssa Simmons, Mary Williams

MSN Research Projects

The purpose of this study was to evaluate healthcare providers compliance with the guidelines established by The Endocrine Society regarding Vitamin D.

Managing Congestive Heart Failure : A Study Comparing The Management Provided By A Cardiologist, Family Physician And Nurse Practitioner, Jill Lyle, Misti Garnett, Lisa Hayes

MSN Research Projects

The purpose of this project was to compare the care provided to congestive heart failure patients by three different provider types. The providers chosen were a cardiologist, a family physician and a nurse practitioner. The researchers used guidelines set forth by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology.

Healthcare Provider Adherence To Asthma Education Guidelines, Jill Lyle, Misti Garnett, Lisa Hayes

MSN Research Projects

The purpose of this project was to compare the care provided to congestive heart failure patients by three different provider types. The providers chosen were a cardiologist, a family physician and a nurse practitioner. The researchers used guidelines set forth by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology.

Primary Care Management Of Type 2 Diabetic Patients With Dyslipidemia According To Ncep Atp Iii Guidelines, Alyssa Simmons, Mary Williams

MSN Research Projects

The purpose of this study was to evaluate healthcare providers compliance with the guidelines established by The Endocrine Society regarding Vitamin D.

Quality Of Life Among Southwest American Indians And Alaska Natives Living With The Hepatitis C Virus, Rydell Todicheeney-Mannes Phd, Rn, Acns-Bc

Dissertations

Background: Hepatitis C Virus is considered to be a global public health threat because seventy-five percent of infected persons have no symptoms and are unaware of their infection. It is significant to note that AI/ANs commonly contend with issues that prevent them from receiving or seeking medical care. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to: (a) Characterize the level of depression, alcohol consumption, stigma, and quality of life; (b) Examine the relationship among the variables of age, gender, residing on an AI/AN reservation, current partner status, depression, alcohol consumption, and stigma with quality of life in a sample of …

Chhs December 2013 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.

Identifying Disease Characteristics, Parent Experience And Coping Strategies When Predicting Pediatric Illness-Related Stress In Parents Of Children With Mitochondrial Disease, Brenda Senger

Nursing Faculty Scholarship

Mitochondrial disease (mito) is a group of rare, inherited, chronic, life-limiting, incurable neurodegenerative disorders known to affect children early in life that result from failure of the mitochondria to turn food into energy. The diagnosis of mito is elusive and complex, with a variety of clinical manifestations, multisystem involvement and the lack of a reliable biological marker for screening and diagnosis. The unpredictable prognosis and erratic nature of this illness can be overwhelming to parents who bear the daily responsibilities of managing the child's care. Little is known about the experience of parents caring for a child with mito.

Objective …

Efficacy Of The Arvigo Techniques Of Maya Abdominal Therapy On Dysmenorrhea Symptoms In Women., Tabitha S. Burchett

Undergraduate Honors Theses

Dysmenorrhea is one of the most reported symptoms by women in OB/GYN departments with an effect on up to 95% of women. Because pain experienced during menstrual cycles influences the mental and physical health of women, it is important to find practical and effective relief.

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is a new clinical and scientific field in the practice of Western medicine. The use of CAM by the public has increased dramatically in recent years and among the practiced modalities lies a fairly new massage technique aimed at treatment of uterine abnormalities attributed to misplacement. The Arvigo Techniques of …

Management Of Type 2 Diabetes With Lifestyle Coaching In Low Income Individuals, Enesa Kanjesic

Graduate Research Projects

No abstract provided.

Ventilator Weaning Protocols: Influencing Outcomes And Promoting Success, Nathan Woody

Graduate Research Projects

No abstract provided.

Improving Metabolic Health In Adult, Premenopausal, Overweight Women Through Moderate Intensity Intermittent Exercise, Timothy Blair

Graduate Research Projects

No abstract provided.

Preventing Maternal And Early Childhood Obesity: The Fetal Flaw In Australian Perinatal Care, Margaret R. Miller, Lydia A. Hearn, Paige Van Der Plight, Jane Willcox, Karen Campbell

Research outputs 2013

Almost half of Australian women of child-bearing age are overweight or obese, with a rate of 30–50% reported in early pregnancy. Maternal adiposity is a costly challenge for Australian obstetric care, with associated serious maternal and neonatal complications. Excess gestational weight gain is an important predictor of offspring adiposity into adulthood and higher maternal weight later in life. Current public health and perinatal care approaches in Australia do not adequately address excess perinatal maternal weight or gestational weight gain. This paper argues that the failure of primary health-care providers to offer systematic advice and support regarding women’s weight and related …

Severe Mental Illness In Adults And Physical Health Outcomes, Kathryn L. Speeter

Doctoral Projects

Adults with severe mental illness (SMI) experience higher morbidity and mortality rates than the general population due to poor physical health and because physical and psychiatric health are rarely addressed holistically. Two questions were posed for this project: (a) Will the use of a physical health screening tool and development of healthpromotion goals result in a change in healthy lifestyle behaviors for participants? (b) Will case managers see value in the use of the screening tool and health-promotion action plan development and incorporate the tool into their day-to-day work with clients? Fourteen adults with SMI, from a community case management …

Perinatal Outcomes Of Prenatal Probiotic And Prebiotic Administration: An Integrative Review, Leona Vandevusse, Lisa Hanson, Nasia Safdar

College of Nursing Faculty Research and Publications

The purpose of this integrative review was to identify, critique, and synthesize the maternal and neonatal evidence on the prenatal use of probiotics and prebiotics to inform perinatal health professionals. A comprehensive literature search resulted in 37 studies of prenatal probiotics and 1 on antepartal prebiotics published from 1990 through 2011 that reported maternal, fetal, and/or neonatal outcomes. The methodologic quality of the studies reviewed was high, although investigators used different probiotic combinations and inconsistently reported perinatal clinical outcomes. The extraction of perinatal outcome variables resulted in identification of 9 maternal and 5 neonatal categories. Prenatal probiotics significantly reduced the …

Under Pressure: Preventing Pressure Ulcers In Critically Ill Infants, Christine A. Schindler, Theresa Mikhailov, Susan E. Cashin, Shelly Malin, Melissa Christenson, Jill M. Winters

College of Nursing Faculty Research and Publications

Purpose

To determine whether a pressure ulcer prevention bundle was associated with a significant reduction in pressure ulcer development in infants in the pediatric intensive care unit.

Design and Methods

Quasi-experimental design involving 399 infants 0 to 3 months of age at a large tertiary care medical center.

Results

The implementation of the care bundle was associated with a significant drop in pressure ulcer incidence from 18.8 to 6.8%.

Practice Implications

Pressure ulcers can be prevented in the most vulnerable patients with the consistent implementation of evidence-based interventions and system supports to assist nurses with the change in practice.

The Microbiology And Immunology Of Normal Physiologic Birth: A Plea For The Nature Of Mother, Lisa Hanson, Leona Vandevusse

College of Nursing Faculty Research and Publications

No abstract provided.

Developmental Care: Strengthening Infants And Families In Egypt, Meredith D. Burt, Catherine Coverston

Journal of Undergraduate Research

There is a striking and jarring difference between the world in the womb and the outside world. This great difference in environments can be very stressful on preterm and newborn infants. There is significant emphasis in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) on medical interventions to support and protect underdeveloped organs. Nutritional and environmental needs have received less attention. However, significant work is being done in both these areas. This project focuses on the effects of environmental factors.

Barriers To Overcoming Malnutrition In Tucumán, Argentina, Trista Jones, Dr. Erin Maughan

Journal of Undergraduate Research

In the 1990s Argentina was considered one of the ten richest countries in the world; in 2002, Argentina underwent a severe governmental crisis that resulted in monetary inflation and high levels of unemployment (Arie, 2002). The economy has made it difficult for many to afford basic essentials like food. This political and economic instability has been considered a key component to the now prevalent problem of malnutrition in Argentine children, especially of the rural provinces. Estimates of up to two million children in the country suffer from malnutrition (Arie, 2002). Government and Humanitarian aid organizations provide some meals to children …

Nutrition Among Pre- And Post-Natal Argentine Mothers, Camber Cooper, Dr. Erin Maughan

Journal of Undergraduate Research

Tucumán is the poorest province in the country of Argentina, made worse by recent economic turmoil. Maternal nutrition is not only important for her own health, but it is also crucial to her developing fetus, both before and during pregnancy, as all nutrients the infant receives during this time come solely from the mother (Lowdermilk & Perry, 2004). Considering the importance of maternal nutrition, reports of malnutrition in Argentina cause particular concern for pregnant and nursing women. According to Argentina’s National Institute of Censuses and Statistics (n.d.), infant mortality across the country in 2002 was 16.8 per 1,000 live births, …

A Comparison Of Growth Rates In Premature Infants In Tucamàn, Argentina And The United States: A Secondary Data Analysis, Emily Sear, Joann Abegglen

Journal of Undergraduate Research

Extrauterine growth, or growth outside the womb following birth, is a serious challenge and concern in premature neonates. Preterm infants have low birth weights simply because they have not reached full growth and development at the time of birth.

Effects Of Pharmacotherapy On Children With Autism And Their Families, Kelli Arnesen, Dr. Barbara Mandleco

Journal of Undergraduate Research

Autism spectrum disorders have been diagnosed more than ever before in children, and a cure is yet to be found. Until a cure is discovered, families must depend on health care professionals to aid in the management of autism, which includes pharmacological measures. The medications used to treat autism are only used to treat the symptoms of autism; they do not treat the disorder itself (Tuchman 2003). There are a wide variety of pharmacotherapies used to treat autism. The goal of my project was to determine commonly used medications to treat some of the common symptoms of autism and how …

Understanding Factors That Influence Quality Of Life In Young Adults With Chronic Pain, Sarah Hocking, Dr. Jane Lassetter

Journal of Undergraduate Research

Chronic pain is a prevalent condition among adults of all ages. It has been estimated that between a quarter and a third of older adults experience chronic pain (Donald & Foy, 2004). The chronic pain experience of older adults has been the subject of much research (Schofield, Ryan, & Clarke, 2006; Hopman-Rock, Kraaimaat, & Billsma, 1997). Less research exists on the chronic pain experience of young adults with chronic pain, although young adults represent a significant number of chronic pain sufferers.

What Critical Resources Do Hispanic Women Of Childbearing Age In Utah Need To Promote Adequate Health Care Practices?, Teresa Paredes, Dr. Ana Birkhead

Journal of Undergraduate Research

The health care practices of Hispanic childbearing age women in Utah affect the overall health care system in Utah. We believe immigrant Hispanic women lack resources (i.e. education, cultural, transportation) to take care of their health and their families. My mentor and I believe the lack of these resources influence Hispanic women’s health status and access to adequate health care. It is crucial for immigrant Hispanic women in Utah to obtain culturally sensitive resources in their communities that will help them learn how to care for their own health and the well-being of their families.

Becoming Mothers And Fathers: The Perspectives Of New Parents, Tawny Thomas, Dr. Lynn Clark Callister

Journal of Undergraduate Research

Globally, birth is a significant event in the lives of childbearing parents. Understanding the perceptions of new mothers and fathers and their satisfaction with health care enlightens health care providers about parents’ responses to birth, their specific needs during that time, and actions health care providers can implement to provide the most ideal experience possible during this exciting and important event. “There is a need for increased knowledge of the perspective of childbearing families as they make the transition to parenthood” (Hickok, 2007, p. 5). This study is important to health care providers as it provides insight into the perceptions …