Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Is It Getting Better? An Evaluation Of Two Successive Generations Of Chatgpt In Answering Specialized Vascular Surgery Questions, Dongjin Suh, Quang Le, Leana Dogbe, Kedar Lavingia, Michael Amendola

Department Surgery Faculty Publications

Purpose: Large language models (LLMs) can generate clinically relevant text; however, their performance in highly specialized medical domains remains uncertain. This study evaluated ChatGPT-3.5 and ChatGPT-4 (OpenAI) using vascular surgery board–style questions from the Vascular Education and Self-Assessment Program, version 4 (VESAP4) and compared the two public model versions (June and November 2023).

Materials and Methods: All non-image VESAP4 questions (n=384) were presented independently three times to each model version (ChatGPT-3.5 June/November; ChatGPT-4, June/November). Outcomes included accuracy (proportion correct), consistency (same option letter across all three attempts and “consistently correct”), explanation length (word count), and modes of failure classified for …

Virtual Learning In Emergency Medicine Residency Programs, Ashley Rider, Laura Oh, Rahul Bhat, Michael Gottlieb, Bruce Lo, Ulemu Luhanga, Shayne Gue, Jason Laenngfeld, Sarah Greenberger, Jeffery Hill, Jonathan Heidt

Department of Emergency Medicine Faculty Publications

During the COVID-19 pandemic, educational systems worldwide faced significant disruptions as in-person learning became unfeasible. In response, many institutions, including graduate medical education programs, swiftly transitioned to virtual learning platforms to adapt to these challenges. The rapid and unplanned pivot in learning format resulted in temporary negative impacts on residency training. Conversely, the experience of the rapid shift may have resulted in some long-term benefits while also preparing programs for future disruptions. This review aimed to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of virtual learning, potential mitigation strategies for the realized disadvantages, and potential areas of future research.

Pathophysiology, Risk Factors, Diagnosis And Management Of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (Crps), Joyce Zhang

Capstone Showcase

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a debilitating neurological condition affecting up to 200,000 individuals annually in the United States. It is marked by pain that far exceeds the expected response to an injury, and is often accompanied by sensory, vasomotor, sudomotor, and motor disturbances. Although frequently triggered by physical trauma, CRPS can also arise spontaneously and without any significant finding on imaging, complicating diagnosis and treatment. The chronic nature of CRPS disrupts a person’s quality of life and is linked to psychological conditions such as depression and anxiety. Early recognition of its diverse symptoms with guidance by the Budapest …

Probiotics In Clinical Practice: Mechanisms, Applications, And Evidence-Based-Use, Christopher Dimatteo

Capstone Showcase

Probiotics, are live microorganisms that can provide health benefits when consumed in the right amounts, have gained attention as potential therapies for a range of conditions. This article examines the current understanding of probiotics, focusing on how they work, the conditions they might help manage, and the challenges that come with probiotic use. Research shows that probiotics can support gut health by balancing the microbiome, strengthening the intestinal barrier, and influencing the immune system. They have shown promise in conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, and some inflammatory disorders. However, their effectiveness depends on the specific strain used, and …

Educating Staff On Effective Ways To Improve Medication Discharge Instructions In Emergency Departments (Ed): A Quality Improvement Project, Isabelle L. Kuhn

Master's Theses and Capstones

Background: Emergency Departments (EDs) serve a vital role in treating acute conditions, yet they face challenges in ensuring patients understand discharge instructions, particularly those related to medications. Approximately 70% of ED patients demonstrate deficits in at least one discharge domain, including medication understanding. Limited health literacy, time constraints, and rushed environments contribute to these gaps. Improving discharge communication is critical to reduce medication errors and prevent avoidable readmissions.

Local Problem: In a Northern New England ED, an assessment of the microsystem highlighted that patients often struggled to understand medication discharge information, increasing the risk of non-adherence and readmission. …

Enhancing Patient-Centered Suicide Prevention: A Quality Improvement Project Addressing Educational Gaps In Staff Caring For Veterans, Shayla Craigue

Master's Theses and Capstones

Veterans are at significantly higher risk for suicidal ideation (SI) than the general population and often encounter barriers to care such as stigma, trauma, and distrust in healthcare systems. This quality improvement project, conducted at a Veterans Affairs (VA) Urgent Care Clinic, aimed to enhance trauma-informed care by addressing educational gaps among clinical staff. Using the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) model, the intervention included a pre-intervention survey to assess baseline knowledge, a targeted educational poster informed by survey findings, and a post-intervention survey to measure changes in staff confidence, resource awareness, and understanding of the role of the mental health response team, …

Exploring The Perception Of Learning Environment Among Undergraduate Medical Students In South India – A Cross-Sectional Study, Suba A, Suma S, Shobana R, Abeetha S, Chitra M, Shruthy K M

Health Professions Education

Purpose: The term "learning environment" refers to the combined social, physical, and psychological context in which the students learn. While a dismissive environment can lead to stress and burnout, a supportive environment enhances professionalism and academic success. Students' perceptions of the medical school learning environment might vary significantly depending on their age, gender, kind of institution and based on their academic year. Comprehending the disparities in perceptions towards the educational setting related to the above said variations may aid in devising interventions that promote favourable experiences for medical students. This study aimed to assess perception of learning environment by South …

Assessing Impact Of Molecular Diagnostics On Time To Optimal Antibiotic Therapy In Pediatric Staphylococcal Bacteremia, Manith Humchad, Kelly Williamson

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Timely optimization of antibiotic therapy is critical in pediatric patients with blood infections, particularly those caused by Staphylococcus aureus. This retrospective study evaluated the impact of molecular diagnostics on time to optimal therapy and discontinuation of unnecessary antibiotics at Akron Children’s Hospital from January 2020 to April 2023. Patients with Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) were more likely to be on appropriate empiric therapy (i.e. vancomycin) before culture results, whereas Methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) cases were de-escalated to beta-lactams. The median time to optimal therapy was 3.7 hours for episodes of MSSA. Infectious Disease (ID) consultation significantly influenced antibiotic management, with …

Review Of Research On Relative Energy Deficiency In Sport (Red-S), Paige Mcmaster

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The following research article review serves to summarize and evaluate peer-reviewed research articles on the topic of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S). The paper will cover RED-S's effect on males versus females, endurance athletes versus non-endurance athletes, recreational athletes versus competitive athletes, and different age groups. Methodology includes strategically reviewing current literature and providing common themes or key points. The goal is to effectively summarize the subject of RED-S, provide in-depth understanding of the condition, and establish the need for education to prevent or reduce the incidence of RED-S.

Professional Development Workshop: Strategy To Increase Registered Nurse (Rn) Retention, Diane Hegedus Msn, Rn, Phrn, Cen, Npd-Bc

Department of Education

(c) Lehigh Valley Health Network

All items are copyright to Lehigh Valley Health Network.

Implementation Of A Nurse Preceptor Online Toolkit, Kortney Welles Msn, Rn, Cmsrn

Department of Education

No abstract provided.

An Assessment Of U.S. Medical Students’ Self-Reported Knowledge, Attitudes, And Practices In Using Professional Medical Interpreters, Ezinne Okonkwo

Honors Undergraduate Theses

Professional medical interpreters interpret conversations between patients with limited English proficiency (LEP) and physicians. Given the important role professional medical interpreters play for LEP patients, current and future healthcare professionals would benefit from understanding their services and how to utilize them effectively. Research has explored how residents and physicians regard medical interpreters, but few studies have examined medical students' knowledge and perceptions about them. This cross-sectional study investigated medical students' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding professional medical interpreters. The sample was comprised of Florida medical students. Participants completed a one-time, quantitative online survey collecting information regarding their medical training, demographics, …

Effect Of Implementing An Educational Program About Post Kidney Transplant Care On Critical Care Nurses' Knowledge, Marwa Abdo, Asmaa Ibrahim Aboseda

Nursing

Background: Critical care nurses (CCNs) play a pivotal role in post-kidney transplant care, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of transplantation procedures, complications, and patient management. So, any knowledge gaps among CCNs may impact the quality of care provide to kidney transplant program. Aim: This study aimed to assess the effect of implementing an educational program about post-kidney transplant care on critical care nurses’ knowledge. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted among 50 critical care nurses. A structured educational program was implemented, and nurses’ knowledge was assessed pre- program, post- program, and three months follow-up. Data was collected using a kidney transplantation …

A Systematic Review Of Dietary Trends, Influencing Factors, And Their Impacts On Cardiovascular Health In Turkish Populations, Pelin L. Özoğlu

Honors Undergraduate Theses

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally, including in Türkiye. One key factor influencing CVD prevention is dietary patterns, which directly impacts cardiovascular health. Türkiye traditionally follows the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet), which is acclaimed for its cardiovascular benefits. Despite this, Türkiye continues to experience high rates of CVD, with projections indicating that CVD mortality will double for both men and women by 2030. It is crucial to address diet-related factors, including potential nutritional deficiencies, to reduce cardiovascular health risks.

This research aims to analyze the Turkish community's adherence to the Mediterranean diet to understand why CVD prevalence …

Improving Safe And Effective Management Of Pain At Home, Alayna V. Olivarez

Honors Undergraduate Theses

Pain is the most common clinical symptom in individuals with a cancer diagnosis. Additionally, home is the preferred place for cancer care which introduces numerous challenges for cancer pain management. The primary purpose of this literature review is to identify support interventions to enhance pain control, prevent exacerbations in pain, and optimize quality of life in individuals with cancer transitioning from the acute care setting to home. The secondary purpose of this review is to analyze patient-specific barriers influencing self-efficacy of pain management and overall health outcomes in the target population. A systematic literature search was conducted using CINAHL, EBSCOhost, …

Cultural Competence In Pre-Medical Education: Examining Preparedness For Cross-Cultural Care, Fiza N. Khan

Honors Undergraduate Theses

As the U.S. population continues to grow more diverse, there is an urgent need for future healthcare providers to develop strong cultural competence. This study investigates undergraduate pre-medical students’ knowledge, attitudes, and comfort levels toward caring for diverse patient populations, including immigrants, refugees, and individuals from varied cultural backgrounds. The goal was to assess how well students are prepared to provide culturally responsive care before entering medical school. Recognizing that the foundation for medical training begins at the undergraduate level, this study aims to identify specific gaps in readiness that may hinder equitable patient care in the future.

A modified …

Study Of Maternal And Fetal Outcomes In Pregnancy Complicated By Thyroid Disorders, Sindhu Kumari, Poornima M

Digital Journal of Clinical Medicine

Background:

Thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism, are common during pregnancy and can significantly impact both maternal and fetal outcomes. Despite advancements in screening and treatment, thyroid dysfunction in pregnancy often remains underdiagnosed, especially in low-resource settings. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, outcomes and effective management strategies of thyroid dysfunction during pregnancy.

Objectives: To evaluate the prevalence and outcomes of thyroid dysfunction, including both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, during pregnancy, and their associated maternal and fetal complications.

Methods: This prospective observational study included 281 pregnant women with thyroid disorders attending antenatal care at JSS Hospital, Mysuru, from August 2022 …

Semaglutide And The Evolving Landscape Of Metabolic Dysfunction–Associated Steatotic Liver Disease, Rohan Karkra

Digital Journal of Clinical Medicine

The FDA approved Semaglutide (Wegovy™) on August 15, 2025, for adults with MASLD and moderate to advanced fibrosis (F2–F3), making it the second approved therapy after Resmetirom. MASLD affects up to 38% of adults and is now the leading cause of liver disease. In the phase 3 ESSENCE trial, Semaglutide achieved resolution of steatohepatitis without worsening fibrosis in 62.9% versus 34.3% with placebo, with additional benefits in weight loss and glycemic control. While long-term data remain pending and access barriers exist, this approval marks a significant advance in MASLD therapy with meaningful histologic and metabolic improvements.

Current Trends In School Nursing For Diabetes & Dermatology, Ali Al-Nahi, Jeffrey Dickerson, Enith Espinosa Palmett, Shterna Frand, Garrett Furth, Matthew Gutzmer, Marshall Hall, Sana Khan, Shana-Kay Lambert-Johnson, Henry Lim, Kelly Mofor, Lakshmi Morla, Ali Nazim, Rui Zhang, Christian Scheufele, Zara Soomro, Michele Mccarroll, Taylor Pickering, Jasmine Silva, Brina Gonzalez, Devika Adusumilli, Sherri Morgan, Nischal Pokhrel

North Texas Research Forum 2025

Background: School nurses are on the front lines of assessing, identifying and treating school-age children with a number of health complications. Implementing nursing services in schools has previously demonstrated improved medical care costs for students, less productivity loss for parents, and less productivity loss for teachers. As a result, nursing services in schools provide a cost-beneficial investment of public money, and warrant both financial support from policy makers as well as educational support from local healthcare services. Aim Statement: This quality improvement project addressed the targeted continuing education gap topics of Dermatology and Diabetes management in school age children. Methods: …

A Nurse-Driven Protocol To Increase Music Therapy Referrals To Manage Patient Pain And Anxiety In The Medicine Intensive Care Unit, Ashley Fox

DNP Projects

Background: Critically ill patients often suffer from pain and anxiety. Music therapy is a safe and effective treatment option. However, most nurses never receive education or training on it, resulting in a lack of awareness of its value and its actual usage in care.

Purpose: The purpose of this project was to increase the number of music therapy referrals to manage pain and anxiety in eligible medicine intensive care unit (MICU) patients via a music therapy protocol that increased nurses’ knowledge, attitudes, and skills related to the use of music as an alternative treatment option for pain and anxiety in …

Navigating Sexual And Gender Diversity: A Quality Improvement Project To Increase Provider Cultural Competencies For Sexual And Gender Minorities In Mental Health Outpatient Facilities, Shermeen Chandani

Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Project Abstract

Purpose: Sexual and gender minority (SGM) populations experience healthcare disparities related to stigma, discrimination, and limited provider cultural competency. In outpatient psychiatric settings, non-affirming practices can negatively affect patient engagement, trust, and continuity of care. This quality improvement project aimed to enhance staff sexual and gender minority cultural competency (SGMCC) and strengthen affirming clinical processes.

Background: The project was implemented across two outpatient psychiatric clinics with approximately 28 multidisciplinary staff members. At baseline, no formal SGM cultural competency training or standardized documentation practices for preferred names and pronouns existed.

Methodology: A Plan–Do–Study–Act framework with a pre/post-test design was used. The …

Sepsis Transitional Care Management: A Phone Call To Reduce Readmission Health Inequity, Linh Tang Taylor, Md, Erica Leser, Ms, Alyssa Nelson, Shelley Schoepflin Sanders

Abstracts, Posters, Presentations

No abstract provided.

Severe Malaria And Multi-Organ Failure, Abby Lindseth, Md, Stephen Yau, Md

Abstracts, Posters, Presentations

No abstract provided.

Cloudy Consequences: Exploring Vaping-Induced Alveolar Proteinosis, Jennifer Wong, Do, Omar Pandhair, Abby Lindseth, Md, Cameron Long

Abstracts, Posters, Presentations

No abstract provided.

Efficiency Rx: Emr Training For Resident Wellness, Calder Dorn, Shelley Sanders

Abstracts, Posters, Presentations

*Winner of the top award in the wellness division

The Differential Expands: Ataxia From Paraneoplastic Cerebellar Degeneration, Dominic Thomas, Md, Amy Dechet

Books, Presentations, Posters, Etc.

Introduction: Paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration is a rare cause of cerebellar ataxia with a poor prognosis for neurologic recovery. The management of symptoms is dependent primarily upon timely diag nosis and treatment of the underlying neoplasm. Herein, we present the diagnostic and treatment course of a patient with paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration. Case: A 72-year-old woman with a past medical history of left mastectomy for high grade ER/PR negative Her2 positive invasive ductal carcinoma presented with progressively worsening dysarthria and ataxia over two months. A metabolic work up by her primary care physician was unrevealing. Breast MRI did not show recurrence of …

An Exploration Of Drivers Of Sepsis Outcomes In Racial & Ethnic Minority Populations, Providence Svmc Gme

Abstracts, Posters, Presentations

No abstract provided.

An Atypical Presentation Of Metastatic Gastric Adenocarcinoma Due To Pulmonary Lymphangitic Carcinomatosis, Matthew Moritz, Md, Omar Pandhair, Md

View All Materials

No abstract provided.

High Neuraxial Blockade In A Parturient After Epidural Placement: A Quality Improvement Simulation., Samir Patel, Noah D Le, John Carter, Nick Melott, Andrew Kalnow, Camille D Hawkins, Alexander Luong, Matthias Franzen

Medical Education Articles

Background Epidural anesthesia is a commonly used procedure in obstetrics for managing labor pain, with a potential complication of high neuraxial blockade. Proficiency in performing epidural or spinal anesthesia and promptly recognizing and managing high neuraxial blockade are critical components of anesthesiology residency training. Methods A simulated case was designed involving a 21-year-old female in labor receiving epidural anesthesia. After the administration of local anesthetic, she develops symptoms of nausea, hypotension, and respiratory distress, progressing to high neuraxial blockade. The simulation environment included a labor and delivery suite setup, an epidural cart, airway supplies, a Laerdal SimMan 3G PLUS mannequin …

Learning Dissemination Strategies: Lessons From The Covid-19 Pandemic In Training Healthcare Professionals In Disease Management, Kishan Vishanagra

Honors Undergraduate Theses

The COVID-19 pandemic presented many challenges for global healthcare systems, requiring rapid training and dissemination of disease management strategies among healthcare professionals. This study conducts a systematic review of 37 studies to examine the learning dissemination methods created and utilized during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on just-in-time training for disease management. This study identifies four core training topics: airway management, infection control, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and patient triage. This study also categorizes delivery methods into in-situ simulation-based training, online e-learning platforms, online simulation-based training, and hybrid training models. Findings highlight that simulation-based training methods proved effective for invasive high-risk procedures, while …