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Exploration Of Clinical Judgment Within Junior Level Baccalaureate Nursing Students Utilizing A Modified Lasater Clinical Judgment Rubric, Christine Zamaripa

Dissertations

Clinical judgment is considered a core competency of nursing care as 46% of nursing tasks performed by new graduate nurses require the use of clinical judgment (National Council of State Boards of Nursing [NCSBN], 2018). With 23% of new nurses not demonstrating entry-level competency, patient safety is at risk (Kavanagh & Szweda, 2017). These deficits are driving changes to national licensure board examinations to focus on the level of clinical judgment new graduates demonstrate (NCSBN, 2018). The purposes of this non-experimental exploratory study were (a) to explore the validity and reliability of the Modified Lasater Clinical Judgment Rubric (MLCJR) developed …

Bayesian Approach To The Mixture Of Gaussian Random Fields And Its Application To An Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study, Mozhdeh Forghaniarani

Dissertations

Due to the functional nature of fMRI data, random field theory is used as a remedy to the multiple comparisons problem in brain signal detection. Traditionally, a Gaussian random field model is fitted to the functional data using this approach. However, fMRI data are not homogeneous, and there exist multiple underlying classes in functional data, so traditional inferential methods may fail. Here, we proposed a new model for signal detection in fMRI data in which we addressed the heterogeneity in such data. The proposed model is a mixture of two Gaussian random fields. We developed a Bayesian approach for hypothesis …

Synthesis And Characterization Of Novel Organic Ligands With Their Complexes Of Platinum, Copper And Uranium, Mustafa Adnan Yasin Aldulaimi

Dissertations

Transition metal complexes of symmetrical and asymmetrical Schiff bases have played a significant role in the field of coordination, inorganic, and bioinorganic chemistry as models for biological, analytical, industrial, and pharmaceutical applications. Over recent years a great deal of interest has developed in new transition metal complexes of Schiff base ligand. The preparation of novel organic ligands is the most important step in the development of metal complexes that exhibit unique properties and novel reactivity. To highlight the presentation of this dissertation and to provide more detailed investigations, the dissertation was separated into six chapters according to the sequence of …

Evaluating The Contributions Of Recollection And Familiarity On Testing And Guessing Benefits In Recognition Memory, Kendal Smith

Dissertations

Completing an interpolated memory test or trying to guess non-studied information following study has yielded powerful memory benefits relative to restudy on a final memory test. Across repetitions of testing and guessing, participants may form an expectancy of an upcoming test type, and consequently, adjust their encoding of information in anticipation of the upcoming test. Research has shown that after several task repetitions, participants form an expectancy of the upcoming task type and will encode materials to match task constraints (Huff, Yates, and Balota, 2018). It is uncertain to what extent these expectancy processes aid in facilitating recollection of specific …

Small Sample Performance Of Bayesian Confirmatory Factor Analysis In The Presence Of Missing Data, Kevin Benedict Gittner

Dissertations

Recent advancements in Bayesian confirmatory factor analysis (BCFA) explored small sample complete case analysis, yet limited research has investigated BCFA in the presence of missing data. Evidence has been provided in support of the use of Bayesian estimation when strong informative prior information is available in complete case small sample analysis. This study explored how BCFA estimation performed in the presence of missing data with various Bayesian prior information criteria and population models. A simulation study design was utilized with five variables controlled in the study; sample size, percent cell missing, simulated population standardized factor loading, number of items per …

It’S Elementary: The Curricular Decision-Making And Instructional Practices Of Black Male Elementary Teachers., Ashlea Jean Campbell

Dissertations

This study explored the curricular decision-making and instructional practices of four Black male elementary teachers in a large suburban school district. In order to capture the intersection of their racial and gender identity with their educational practices, the researcher utilized educational connoisseurship and criticism, a methodology that examines the nuances that exist in the curricular and pedagogical choices of teachers. Critical race theory provided a framework for addressing the nuance that exists while also challenging dominant ideology regarding Black male elementary teachers. In addition to interviews and observations, this study provided space for participants to contribute directly to the data …

Hipaa Applied To Jigsaw: A Collaborative Communication Improvement Project, Margaret P. Smallwood

Dissertations

Purpose: To translate the Jigsaw Method of Cooperative Learning into a strategy to improve collaboration in healthcare education through formal online discussions. The Jigsaw Method concept will be utilized to identify any enhancements in collaborative communication among healthcare professionals.

Significance: Communication failures lead to increased healthcare costs, patient care errors, and greater inefficiency in healthcare delivery. This project can improve collaborative communication that can help to eliminate these failures.

Design: The design is a mixed method, using quantitative and qualitative strategies for data collection and analysis.

Method: Online discussions were reformatted into constructive segments using the Jigsaw Technique and implemented …

Using Education To Improve Medication Adherence In Hypertension, Chinyere Oghide

Dissertations

Antihypertensive medication non-adherence is a common problem in healthcare. Currently, the project site has no program to increase medication adherence (MA) in their hypertensive patients. Therefore, the purpose of this quantitative, quasi-experimental quality improvement project was to determine if the implementation of the Million Hearts program impacted the adherence to antihypertensive medication among adult patients, with known hypertension (HTN) in a primary care clinic setting in New York, over a four week period. Orem's self-care theory and Ajzen's theory of planned behavior were the project's theoretical foundation. Data on MA was measured using the Hill-Bone Medication Adherence Scale HB-MAS scale …

Identification Of Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Clinical Procedural Skills Used In Practice: Examination Of Frequency Of Use, Importance Of Skill, And Training For Skill, David R. Want

Dissertations

With primary care NPs functioning in varied settings and roles requiring additional CPS knowledge and skills, NPs have expressed lack of preparedness regarding CPS. Although some evidence identified those CPS considered important to and frequently performed by NPs, the literature provides insufficient evidence to identify the CPS performed most frequently and rated as most important by primary care NPs in practice, and existing curricular standards lack clarity regarding which CPS to include in program curricula. This project aimed to conduct a practice analysis of the most frequently performed and most important CPS to primary care NPs in one region of …

Evaluating The Effectiveness Of Training Used For The Implementation Of A Peer Support Program To Support Second Victims, Karen Adamouski-Marion

Dissertations

In many health care organizations, the needed support for second victims, or care of the caregiver, is lacking or unavailable. This was true of the Inova health system organization at the conception of this project. This paper describes the process of establishing the need for a peer support program and evaluating the effectiveness of the selected peer support training program to meet the needs of the peer supporters, the team members they serve, and the organization. Unfortunately, unanticipated and tragic events will happen to excellent health care team members; the results are often anxiety, depression, guilt, and fear. The effects …

The Role Of Self-Efficacy And Academic Mindset On Middle School Math Achievement For At Promise Youth: An Explanatory Study, Michael Lockwood Mansfield

Dissertations

California’s accountability system has blended its focus on noncognitive factors of achievement as well as evidence of academic growth. School districts are becoming increasingly interested in developing noncognitive factors in their students to help increase student achievement. With the wide variety of mandates and responsibilities schools are shouldering, it will be important to continue developing methods to increase all school accountability metrics in relation with each other. This research aims to explore the relationship between noncognitive factors and mathematics achievement as measured by the Northwest Evaluation Association’s Measure of Academic Progress assessment (MAP). This study surveyed 8th graders throughout a …

Closing The Gaps: Understanding And Disrupting Deficit Thinking And Exclusionary Discipline Practices In A Latinx School, Edgar Ivan Alcaraz

Dissertations

Improving the academic outcomes for low-income underserved students has become imperative for districts who are committed to equity and justice. School cultures that emphasize college and career readiness for all have been found to improve the academic achievement of low-income students of color. This dissertation explores the efforts of a Latino middle school principal striving to build a college and career readiness culture. Deficit thinking, coupled with exclusionary discipline practices, were the biggest challenges to overcome while promoting a college and career readiness culture. The findings of this study highlight the need to address and disrupt these ideologies as a …

Exploring The Deleterious Connection Between Tradional School Discipline Practices And Male Latino Students Who Have Endured Adverse Childhood Experiences: An Exploratory Study In Northern California., Sonia Vargas

Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to critically evaluate the deleterious connection between traditional school discipline practices and male Latino students who have endured adverse childhood experiences. This study examined Latino male students’ testimonials and understanding of their educational trajectories as they encounter adverse childhood experiences as well as their perceptions towards punitive disciplinary practices. This exploratory research utilized a documentary film design methodology and examined the perceptions of Latino male students, counselors, administrators and district official in an urban school district located in northern California. The study drew upon qualitative data collected in video format through student participants’ and …

The Criteria For Developing A Tk-12 Ethnic Studies Model Curriculum, Taunya Marie Jaco

Dissertations

Over the past five decades, educators have been working to develop authentic Ethnic Studies courses that can be implemented in both higher education and K-12 schools. Ethnic Studies has been documented to be effective in growth in several metrics used to assess student "achievement." Despite its results, there is much debate as to whether or not Ethnic Studies should be a high school graduation requirement in California K-12 schools. This study explores key policies on Ethnic Studies in California, particularly the legislative mandate to develop a K-12 Ethnic Studies model curriculum. Through an exploratory documentary film study, this dissertation investigates …

Experiences, Attitudes, And Perceptions Of Female Adjunct Clinical Instructors Teaching Male Pre-Licensure Nursing Students, Amanda E. Shilo

Dissertations

The global shortage of nurses is a problem that has serious consequences. Recruitment of men into nursing has been seen as one possible solution to both diversify the profession, and fill the shortfall, but there are multiple barriers for males in nursing. These barriers are reported as they first contemplate a career in nursing, during nursing education, and as they transition into the profession. This results in decreased retention and success, with males leaving nursing in higher numbers than their female peers. Clinical instructors are described as an essential source of encouragement and support for nursing students, yet are also …

Perceptions Of Southwest Missouri Public School K‒12 Teachers And Building Principals In Regard To Preparedness Of Culturally Responsive Teaching, Katie C. Kensinger

Dissertations

Over the past two decades, K‒12 public education demographics have reflected an increase in student diversity while over 80% of the teaching population remains White (Ramirez et al., 2016). As student demographics evolve, public schools must adjust to provide all students with an education relevant to their backgrounds and experiences (Jones-Good, 2015). Teachers must prioritize and be prepared to teach diverse groups of students (Gay, 2018). This mixed-methods study included an analysis of teacher and principal perceptions of their level of preparedness for culturally responsive teaching in four southwest Missouri school districts with diverse student populations. The focus was placed …

Provider-Focused Lgbtqia+ Education: A Quality Improvement Effort, Amir W. Raad

Dissertations

The purpose of this quality improvement doctoral project was to implement an educational session at Southwest Behavioral & Health Services (SB&H) in rural Kingman, Arizona. The provider education focused on promoting transformational change in mental health provider awareness through education on health disparities, health related risk factors, interpersonal communication, and cultural sensitivity specific to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, and asexual/allies population (LGBTQIA+).

Computational Studies Of Carbon Nanocluster Solidification, Chathuri C. Silva

Dissertations

A subset of micron-size meteoritic carbon particles formed in red giant atmospheres show a core-rim structure, likely condensed from a vapor phase into super-cooled carbon droplets that nucleated graphene sheets (~40Å) on randomly oriented 5-atom loops during solidification, followed by coating with a graphite rim. Similar particles form during slow cooling of carbon vapor in the lab.

Here we investigate the nucleation and growth of carbon rings and graphene sheets using density functional theory (DFT). Our objectives: (1). explore different computational techniques in DFT-VASP for various carbon structures and compare the results with literature, (2). investigate the nucleation and growth …

An Examination Of The Impact Of Student Loan Debt On Alumni Giving, Ashley N. Nickell, Molly B. Hurley

Dissertations

This study examined the effect of student loan debt on alumni’s willingness and ability to donate to their alma mater, including other identity-based motivating factors associated with an alumnus’ decision whether or not to donate. Participants of this study were recent (2015-2020) graduates of a doctoral program in the healthcare field in the Midwest, and were purposefully selected to answer questions regarding their income, loan debt, decision to give in monetary or non-monetary ways, and financial literacy education/financial preparedness. Data were gathered from virtual interviews that were transcribed and coded for emergent themes. The findings revealed that the majority of …

Comparison Of Pre-Licensure Bsn Student Outcomes Between Team-Based And Traditional Learning Methods, Tressa J. Pedroff

Dissertations

The increased complexity of healthcare systems requires nurses to have a different skillset, largely not provided in today's nursing curricula. Team-based learning is one possible teaching strategy believed to increase nurses' critical thinking and teamwork self-efficacy. Currently, there is insufficient objective data available that demonstrates improved academic performance and perceptions of teamwork skills in pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing students.

The purpose of this study is to compare the effects of team-based learning and traditional lecture-format teaching strategies among pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing students in a Foundations of Nursing Practice course.

Profitably Risky: A Study Of Medicare Capitation Contracts For Primary Care Medical Practices, Michael Wieck

Dissertations

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is seeking to move medical providers from a fee-for-service reimbursement model to a value-based reimbursement model. In this dissertation, we studied the financial rewards and risks that accompany capitation contracts. We employed Poisson regression to estimate health-care utilization of beneficiaries under the care of primary care providers with varying levels of capitation. Then, we calculated capitation contract results for primary care practices using Monte Carlo simulations. We used three methods to predict medical payments for beneficiaries: (1) empirical probability distributions of annual medical payments, (2) theoretical probability distributions of annual medical payments, and …

The Role Of Counseling Trainee Adversity, Attachment Style, And Trauma-Informed Principles In Clinical Supervision, Nicole Hurless

Dissertations

Current supervision literature suggests that supervisees with insecure attachment styles may perceive a poorer relationship with their supervisor and feel less satisfied with supervision. Studies across disciplines indicate a relationship between traumatic and/or adverse experiences and insecure attachment; however, this association has not been studied within the context of supervision. This dissertation explores a structural equation model assessing the associations between student’s adverse experiences, insecure attachment, and quality of the supervision relationship. It was hypothesized that greater prevalence of adverse experiences would negatively relate to supervision relationship quality, and this relationship would be mediated by insecure attachment. The results of …

Complexation Of Glycoalkaloid Α- Tomatine With Sterols And Its Potential Application As An Anti-Cancer Drug, Bishal Nepal

Dissertations

Glycoalkaloids (GAs) are secondary metabolites found mostly in higher plant species and some marine invertebrates. They are known to form complexes with 3β-hydroxy sterols such as cholesterol causing membrane disruption. So far the visual evidence showcasing the complexes formed between glycoalkaloids and sterols has been mainly restricted to some earlier studies using Brewster angle microscopy. This study aimed to develop a method for topographic and morphological analysis of sterol-glycoalkaloid complexes. Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) transfer of monolayers comprising of glycoalkaloid tomatine, sterols, and lipids in varying molar ratios onto mica followed by AFM examination was performed. The AFM method used required minimal …

Fostering The Non-Academic Trait Of Grit To Increase Nursing Student Success, Marianne Biangone

Dissertations

In nursing education, there are few challenges as elusive as determining why attrition occurs. Attrition has been attributed to factors such as academic underperformance, adverse life events, and financial issues. It is imperative to identify additional tools for students to increase the opportunity for program success despite his or her challenges. Grit is passion and perseverance for long-term goals. Grit has had a positive impact on academic achievement, and the need is present for research on the ability to foster the development of the characteristics that make up grit in undergraduate nursing students. The purpose of this study is to …

Improving Post-Operative Infection Rates Using My Five Moments For Hand Hygiene, Reginald Mark R. Dimailig

Dissertations

Adequate hand hygiene is known to diminish surgical site infections (SSIs) and prevent healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) in the post-operative settings. An increase in SSIs due to poor hand hygiene compliance was observed at the chosen project site. The purpose of this quantitative quasi-experimental quality improvement project was to determine if the implementation of the World Health Organization's (WHO) Five Moments of Hand Hygiene, would improve hand hygiene compliance and reduce post-operative infection rates among orthopedic patients in a same-day surgery unit. The project took place in a medical center located in the Northeast United States. The health belief model (HBM) …

Academic Intensive Care Units: What Is The Impact On Student Achievement?, Brandi Compass

Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to determine if academic intensive care units along with no-zero grading policies at the high school level result in students having higher achievement levels on state EOC assessments. A mixed-methods approach was taken in order to obtain both qualitative and quantitative data from surveys and interviews. Additional quantitative data were analyzed from archival data. Two separate schools were chosen for the populations. High School A implemented academic intensive care units and no-zero grading polices while High School B did not. Participants in the study consisted of both teachers and students at High School A …

Lived Experiences Of Or Nurses Working Off Peak Hours, Tashma E. Watson

Dissertations

Nursing plays a vital role in the care and safety of patients. Compared to other health care disciplines, nursing spends the greatest amount of time at the bedside. As health care continues to evolve, nursing will be an active participant in effecting the delivery of patient care. However, there is a paucity of research focused specifically on experiences of nurses caring for patients in the OR. Recent research explores the phenomenon of the "weekend effect." This phenomenon suggests variations in patient outcomes on weekends and nights (off-peak hours) compared to weekdays. The purpose of this hermeneutic phenomenological study was to …

Fluctuating Cohesion: A Grounded Theory Study Of Nursing Students Engaged In A Hybrid Debriefing Format, Carol L. Senette

Dissertations

Debriefing is a key component of simulation that promotes development of students' reflective processes. Instructor-led debriefing (ILD) is considered the gold standard; however, research conducted over the past decade demonstrates the negative effects of anxiety on student reflection during ILD. Nursing students' experiences with ILDs have been substantially investigated; yet scant research explores students' perceptions and experiences of more learner-centered debriefing formats that deemphasize the instructor role.

Mentorship Program To Improve Nursing Knowledge On Prevention Of Hospital-Acquired Pressure Injuries, Terri Lo

Dissertations

In the United States, hospital acquired pressure injuries (HAPIs) is one persistent patient safety problems with an increasing incidence rate resulting in patient harm and patient deaths. Pressure injuries can lead to problems for the patient and family related to wound care and quality of life. Prevention of HAPIs is an essential aspect of nursing practice. Education and mentorship about HAPI prevention can help facilitate translation of evidence-based research findings to clinical nursing practice to improve patient care outcomes.

Epoxy Curing: Paramount Or Trivial? A Cure Path Dependent Inquiry, Jared Bates

Dissertations

The presented research delves into epoxy network formation corroborating reactant concentration profiles and physical property development throughout cure, providing an experimental basis for burgeoning molecular dynamics and coarse-grained simulation methodologies. Herein, three primary subjects were investigated: the first two examine neat and toughened epoxide/amine network formation with respect to various cure profiles aimed at altering reaction pathways, the final chapter intends to augment traditionally utilized activation energy (E_a) methodologies.

Neat and toughened epoxide/amine slurries were monitored in-situ throughout cure via near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and rheological techniques. Functional group conversion and moduli development were related with specific attention …