Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Use Of Best Practices In Exam Item Creation, Analysis, And Revision: Nursing Faculty’S Knowledge, Use, And Implementation Barriers And Facilitators, Julie Anne De Haan

Day of Scholarship

The ultimate goal of nursing education is to prepare graduates to provide excellent, safe patient care. The implementation of exam item best practices can significantly contribute to this process. This study examined nursing faculty’s use of best practices for exam item creation, analysis, and revision and best practice barriers and facilitators. Through a quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive correlational research study, the research demonstrated that faculty inconsistently use exam item best practices. Faculty research participants identified ways to enhance the use of best practices and suggestions to nursing leadership were developed based on the data. With faculty development and an outlined support …

Telemedicine For Prenatal Care During The Covid-19 Pandemic, Katrina Wu

Day of Scholarship

In the United States, 24.4% or approximately 1 million pregnant individuals, do not receive early or sufficient prenatal care each year. Due to its widespread adoption during the pandemic, understanding how it was implemented and insights from user experiences can inform the utilization of telemedicine as a potential long-term strategy to improve access to prenatal care. For this national, convergent mixed methods study, researchers surveyed 196 perinatal providers and 749 pregnant patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings indicated mild to moderate satisfaction across six telehealth usability domains. While the majority of participants reported they did not use blood pressure cuffs …

Evaluation Of A Unique Care Coordination And Transition Management Clinical Module, Debbie Solomon, Beth Anderson, Ann Holland

Day of Scholarship

A two-year curriculum evaluation was undertaken to guide development of a unique clinical curricular module focused on care coordination and transition management. The module, in place in the junior curriculum since 2015, had been modified through the years in response to changes in faculty, clinical partners, and department resources. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly limited student field experiences, requiring development of existing and new on-campus simulated learning experiences. Three analytic processes were used to evaluate how teaching methods and resource utilization contributed to student achievement of learning outcomes. The results led faculty to reinitiate field experiences in home care and hospice …

Patient Centered Care Coordination: The Impact Of A Non-Acute Care Clinical Curricular Module On Nursing Student Learning Outcomes, Ann Holland

Day of Scholarship

This poster reports on the results of a study that investigated the impact of a clinical curricular module for teaching patient-centered care coordination on BSN student learning outcomes. Prior to the development of the clinical curricular module, the junior-level curriculum in the Bethel nursing program contained disparate student learning experiences in non-acute care settings. The module brought these existing and new learning experiences together into a cohesive curriculum using the Chronic Care Model as a conceptual framework. The quasi-experimental study was one of the first nursing education research studies conducted about the important and emerging professional nursing role of care …

Holistic Review: Application To Post-Baccalaureate Nursing Education, Kristi Gustafson

Day of Scholarship

Literature review/survey of best practices; tools and measures to consider experiences, attributes, and metrics of applicants; considerations for the student and cohort experience; addressing healthcare workforce needs and needs of the nursing profession; application to post-baccalaureate (second-degree) nursing admission processes

Rural Maternal Care Crisis & Strained Workforce: An Integrative Review Revealing Factors In The Rural Maternal Care Crisis, Taylor F. High Elk

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Introduction: The United States is comprised of 75% rural areas and settings (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (2014). Nearly five million women in the US do not have access to maternity care in the county in which they reside (Uribe-Leitz et al., 2022). Purpose: The purpose of this integrative review is to assess the hospitals that provide maternity care in rural settings, the procedures performed in these locations, and the maternal care workforce in the rural obstetric setting. The goal of this research is to identify why there is a lack of maternity care in the rural setting, and …

Virtual Visits In Prenatal Care: An Integrative Review, Katrina Wu, Christina Lopez, Michelle Nichols

Graduate School Faculty Publications

Introduction: Addressing gaps in access to prenatal care is an important step to reversing rising rates of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality and invites the exploration of innovative care models. This integrative review of published literature explores the patient, health care provider, and organizational experience of integrating virtual visits in prenatal care.

Methods: A literature search to identify original studies and quality improvement projects published between 2010 and 2020 was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Google Scholar using keywords associated with both telemedicine and prenatal care. Inclusion criteria specified articles pertaining to synchronous virtual visits between pregnant patients …

An Investigation Into The Use Of An Herbal Labor Induction Tincture Containing Black Cohosh, Cramp Bark, Partridgeberry, And Motherwort On Contractile Responses Produced From Isolated Strips Of Mouse Uterine Tissues, Clayton Neuenschwander, Katrina Wu, Teresa F. Degolier

Biological Sciences Faculty Publications

Introduction: Alternative solutions in the form of herbal remedies meant to ease or expedite the process of labor have often been pursued and administered but have seldom been quantitatively tested for efficacy. Published research has shown some validation for some commonly used herbs such as blue cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides), red raspberry (Rubus idaeus), castor bean (Ricinus communis) and evening primrose (Oenothera biennis) on isolated mouse uterine strips. Methods: This study tested an array of herbs used by midwives in a labor induction tincture, which included black cohosh (Actaea racemosa), cramp bark (Viburnum opulus), partridgeberry (Mitchella repens), and motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca). …

Hydration And Nutrition During Labor, Muna Abdi, Katie Cooper

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Background/Purpose: Historically women have birthed in their own homes. As birth moved to the hospital, concerns surrounding gastric aspiration following general anesthesia led to restrictive intake policies for laboring women. Current professional recommendations vary regarding nutritional intake in labor. The purpose of this paper is to determine whether there are differences in maternal outcomes when different forms of hydration and nutrition are used during labor. Theoretical Framework: Neuman’s Systems Model was the theoretical framework used to guide the research process. This model includes four systems (client-client, environment, health, and nursing) which work together to promote holistic wellness. Methods: A thorough …

Postplacental Intrauterine Device Insertion: Efficacy And Barriers, Tommi Amanda Ladd Carrell

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As many as half of all women do not attend postpartum care and receive desired family planning care. Left with little to no resources for obtaining contraception, many go on to have subsequent unplanned pregnancies. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has stated that offering long-term, reversible contraception at the time of birth should be considered for these women, yet adoption of this procedure remains low. This literature review will evaluate the efficacy and advantages of postplacental intrauterine device placement and barriers to implementing the procedure.

Perineal Massage Or Warm Compress To Decrease Perineal Trauma In Second Stage Of Labor, Amanda Condon, Colleen Williams

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Background/Purpose: The purpose of this review of research is to determine if the use of perineal massage or warm compress in the second stage of labor decreases perineal trauma, including spontaneous lacerations or the need for an episiotomy. Theoretical Framework: Betty Neuman’s Systems Model asserts that each person will interact with the environment with their own set of variables. Neuman’s Systems Model focuses on maintaining health with the prevention of three categories of stressors: primary, secondary and tertiary. Nurse-midwives work to prevent perineal trauma by considering what interventions strengthen the defense of each women to the environment stressors of physiologic …

Maintaining Postpartum Bleeding: Effects Of Tranexamic Acid, Shenider Dufort

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Background/Purpose: The purpose of this literature appraisal is to determine the effectiveness of tranexamic acid (TXA) and its ability to stabilize postpartum bleeding. TXA is an antifibrinolytic pharmacologic drug found to reduce blood loss associated with trauma and patients undergoing major surgeries. When administered in combination with other uterotonics, the World Health Organization predicts the prophylactic use of TXA could globally improve the morbidity and mortality rates associated with postpartum hemorrhaging. Theoretical Framework: Kurt Lewin’s change theory was used in the development of this literature review. The Lewin change theory emphasizes the importance of change and development within a medical …

The Resilient Midwife, Sarah M. Dorsey

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Midwives have been shown to significantly improve birth outcomes; the World Health Organization proposes that 83% of maternal deaths, newborn deaths, and stillbirths could be prevented through midwifery care. However, burnout level in this profession is high; a 2017 survey of U.S. certified nurse-midwives and certified midwives revealed that 40.6% of these professionals were suffering from burnout. The purpose of this paper is to identify strategies to facilitate resilience and decrease burnout in the midwifery professionMethods: 1427 articles were screened to yield twenty research studies relevant to improving resiliency and decreasing burnout the midwifery profession. The twenty articles were summarized …

Telehealth Use During The Prenatal Period: Strengths And Limitations, Adrian M. Goblisch, Tessa L. Hand

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Background/Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to examine the risks and benefits of telehealth use during the prenatal period. With the increasing use of technology to provide healthcare, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is critical to examine the implications this care modality has on individuals and the community. Theoretical Framework: Katharine Kolcaba’s Comfort Theory was applied to the topic of telehealth use in the prenatal period. This theory explains that there is an immediate experience of strengthening when relief, ease, and transcendence are met and that an individual is more likely to exhibit health-seeking behaviors when comfort in …

The Effectiveness Of Comprehensive Sexual Education For Teens: An Exploration Of The Advantages And Disadvantages, Crystal L. Iddings, Danielle J. Wadsworth

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Background/Purpose: The teen pregnancy rate in the United States was18.8 per 1000 in 2017. Although this is an all-time low for teen pregnancy in the United States, it is still the highest rate among developed countries. This literature review aimed to reveal the advantages and disadvantages of comprehensive sexual health education. Theoretical Framework: In 1947, Kurt Lewin identified three stages to the Change Theory which people go through while making change: unfreezing, change, freeze (or refreeze). These three major concepts are the force that pushes forward for change to occur. Methods: Twenty research articles were critically reviewed with the purpose …

Dance: The Movement Supporting Safe, Sovereign And Satisfying Birth Experiences, Lisa Marie Morgan

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Labor dance utilizes upright positioning, hands and knees position, use of the rebozo and other alternative labor and birth positions as a traditional means of taking advantage of gravity and increasing the pelvic diameter in labor and birth. Despite recommendations by the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) supporting such positions, promotion and use of labor dance remain in the margins of labor and birth experiences for most women. This literature review finds that labor dance increases safety, sovereignty and satisfaction in the labor and birth experience for women. Further, this simple …

Evaluating The Impact Of Volunteer And Facility Provided Doula Support In The Intrapartum Period On Maternal, Neonatal, And Psychosocial Outcomes In The Hospital Setting, Kayla Puent, Keirsta Marie Ragels

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Background/Purpose: The unacceptably high maternal mortality rate in the United States has demanded a call to action for evaluation and implementation of efforts to improve both maternal and neonatal outcomes. Low-resource and low-socioeconomic populations are at a higher risk of experiencing adverse birth outcomes. Doulas have continuously been recognized as key tools in improving outcomes, but not all birthing persons have access to them. The positive impact of continuous labor support in improving outcomes is recognized by the American College of Obstetricians, American College of Nurse-Midwives, the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, and the March of Dimes. The purpose of this …

Breastfeeding Education And Support For Marginalized Women To Increase Exclusive Breastfeeding Rates, Kelsea J. Rush, Leah Vogel

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Background/Purpose: Marginalized women have significantly lower rates of breastfeeding initiation and duration and also experience significant health disparities when compared to non-marginalized populations. Breastfeeding has positive health benefits to both mother and child and could help to reduce these disparities. The purpose of this critical appraisal of the literature was to determine the effects of additional breastfeeding education and support on breastfeeding among marginalized groups of women. Theoretical Framework: Ramona Mercer’s Maternal Role Attainment Theory was used as a framework for the literature review by following the four stages of attainment; anticipatory, formal, informal, and personal. Methods: Twenty relevant, scholarly …

Benefits And Risk Associated With Physical Exercise During The Antenatal Period, Corrie Crump, Brittany Freeman

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Background/Purpose: There are many misconceptions, uncertainties, and false narratives pertaining to how much physical activity and what types of activities are safe in pregnancy. This purpose of this critical literature review was to provide more guidance on evidence-based recommendations for what activity and how much activity is considered safe, and shed light on the proven benefits being physically active provides. Additionally, the literature was reviewed to assess the benefits of exercise during pregnancy as it pertains to maternal morbidity. Theoretical Framework: Dorothea Orem’s Theory on Self-Care Deficit explains the importance of self-care, and focuses on the individual’s ability to perform …

Adolescents & Long Acting Reversible Contraception, Nicole Elizabeth Amstutz, Jessica Kesterson

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Background/Purpose: The purpose of this literature appraisal is to assess adolescent access to long-acting reversible contraception (LARCs). Theoretical Framework: The Health Belief Model (HBM) helps describe the psychological and behavioral underpinnings of how one cares for one’s health. The HBM can be applied to how adolescents perceive the risks associated with unprotected intercourse compared to the perceived benefits of LARC usage. The HBM considers the benefits, barriers, risk of susceptibility, risk severity, self-efficacy, and cues to the action of adopting positive health interventions in one’s life (Jones et al., 2016). Methods: Twenty-four relevant articles from the literature were appraised. Results/Findings: …

Addictions Following Bariatric Surgery: A Critial Review Of The Literature, Anna Hansene Bjork

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Background: Bariatric surgery has become increasingly common for the treatment of obesity. Research and education are needed to identify and study potential post-surgical risks including alcohol use disorders and other physiological and psychological comorbidities. Purpose: The purpose of this critical review of the literature was to study and identify addiction after bariatric surgery, specifically alcohol use disorder. Theoretical/Conceptual Framework: Rosenstock’s Health Belief Model (1988) was used to correlate theory and addiction. In particular, how health beliefs differ between patients, and their perception of addiction. This allows nurses to apply strategies that influence or educate patients on making healthy lifestyle changes. …

Supporting Physiologic Labor: Effects Of Hydrotherapy On Labor Outcomes, Ashley Y. Blaine

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Background/Purpose: The purpose of this literature analysis was to identify the effects of hydrotherapy use in the first stage of labor. Although hydrotherapy has been well-studied and its benefits well documented, it is use in labor still remains under-utilized in the United States. There has been a recent rise in medical intervention in labor and a coinciding rising cesarean section rate. In an effort to promote physiologic labor, both the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) have issued statements supporting hydrotherapy use during labor. Theoretical Framework: Katherine Kolcaba’s Theory of Comfort provides …

Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (Nas) In Neonatal Intensive Care: Breastfeeding May Be Beneficial For Decreasing Nas Severity For Infants, Julie A. Chandler

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Background: Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is defined as hyperactivity of the central and autonomic nervous symptoms in infants from intrauterine exposure to drugs of addiction. There is variability in how NAS is managed in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for infants with NAS, more research should be conducted to discover how breastfeeding may benefit NAS infants in the NICU. Purpose: The purpose of this critical review of the literature is to determine whether neonatal abstinence symptoms of infants diagnosed with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) in the neonatal intensive care (NICU) differed if they were breastfed. Results: Using Meleis’s Transition …

School Nurse Influence On Adolescent Type 1 Diabetic Control, Sara E. Dahling

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Diabetes care is complex and requires consistent management of multiple factors (such as insulin, blood sugar and carbohydrate counting). School-aged children typically show poorer metabolic control, indicating a need for helping students to manage their diabetic needs. The purpose of this systematic review is to identify strategies within the care coordination role of the Licensed School Nurse that can be implemented by the school nurse, during the school day, to improve diabetic self-care among children and adolescents. Pender’s Health Promotion Model (Petiprin, 2016) was used as a framework for interventions for the school nurse and provided information about important factors …

Optimal Nutrition In Pregnancy, Monica G. Daugherty

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This review provides valuable evidence for nurse-midwives about the major role that nutrition plays in the well being of the mother-infant dyad. Nutrition affects the pregnancy, maternal outcomes, and neonatal outcomes. Education about nutrition provided by nurse-midwives can help shape women’s experiences in a positive manner, safeguarding their pregnancy, their future, and their children’s future.

Reducing Preterm Birth For Women Of Color Through Group Prenatal Care, Laura C. Early, Aubrey Monson

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The purpose of this paper is to critically review the literature to examine if group prenatal care can reduce preterm birth rates in women of color compared to individual prenatal care.

Lifestyle Changes For Women With Gestational Diabetes, Brooklyn Feustel Elkan, Kristen Mccammon

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Background/Purpose: The purpose of this paper was to evaluate the current literature to see if there was a common thread in treatment/prevention of the progression of gestational diabetes in pregnant women. Theoretical Framework: Dorthea Orem’s theory, The Self-Care Deficit Theory, was the theoretical framework used in this critical review of the literature. This theory asserts that patients should be self-reliant and responsible for their healthcare. This is achieved by providers giving them options and advice based on evidence to change their lifestyle and take control. This directly relates to managing GDM, because providers can only counsel the patients on changes, …

Hepatitis C Education, Testing, And Treatment In Homeless Shelters: Models For Linkage To Care In High-Risk Populations, Erin H. Higley

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Background: With the increase of IV drug use, Hepatitis C viral (HCV) infections have increased considerably among the homeless population. The introduction of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medications has made treating marginalized populations much easier. However, getting homeless patients and people who inject drugs (PWID) linked to care remains a challenge worldwide. More research is needed to ensure that all persons with HCV are able to access treatment regardless of social or economic status. Purpose: The purpose of this critical review of research is to identify models of care for treating HCV among the homeless. This review was done to support …

Marijuana Use In Pregnancy And The Effects On The Fetus/Infant, Amy Rebecca Hurst, Malia Smylie

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The purpose of this paper is to critically examine the literature and evidence that is available surrounding pre-pregnancy and prenatal use of marijuana and the effects it has on the developing fetus/infant. It was found that across most findings that further research needs to be done on the use of marijuana prior to pregnancy, during pregnancy, and postpartum. It has also been found that screening and counseling needs to be done and focused on prior to pregnancy and during pregnancy and postpartum. Healthcare professionals have the opportunity to establish a trusting relationship with their patients and to be able to …

Factors That Affect The Sustainability Of Faith Community Nurse Programs In Christian Faith Communities, Mary K. Martin

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Background: With the increasing number of people who are homebound or have chronic illnesses, the faith community nurse (FCN) is able to provide whole person care to people in faith communities. Purpose: The purpose of this critical review of the literature is to identify factors that affect the sustainability of FCN programs in faith communities. Theoretical Framework: Ziebarth’s Evolutionary Conceptual Model for Faith Community Nursing was applied to this literature review. This model allows for the definition of and practice of FCNs to change in order to improve the understanding and acceptance of this nursing specialty. Methods: A critical review …