Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Integration Of Virtual Simulation Within A Nursing Curriculum: A Mixed Methods Study, Martina Costello, Hugh Davies, Fiona Williams, Michelle Gay, Jennifer Jennings, Joyce Muge-Sugutt, Olivia Gallagher

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Virtual simulation is a valuable learning tool for health professionals to facilitate knowledge, skills, and confidence. Simulation-based learning in Nursing has increased with advances in digital technologies, embedding diverse virtual modalities. The integration of virtual simulations requires careful consideration of pedagogical approaches and implementation strategies. The vSim® for Nursing platform was integrated into the curriculum of an undergraduate nursing program at an Australian university to enhance clinical learning experiences. Aim: To evaluate the implementation of the vSim® for Nursing learning platform within the second-year curriculum. Methods: A mixed-methods cross-sectional survey design was used, guided by Kirkpatrick's training evaluation model. …

Of Scents And Cytokines: How Olfactory And Food Aversions Relate To Nausea And Immunomodulation In Early Pregnancy, Dayoon Kwon, Daniel M.T. Fessler, Delaney A. Knorr, Kyle S. Wiley, Julie Sartori, David A. Coall, Molly M. Fox

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: During pregnancy, the maternal body undergoes extensive physiological adaptations to support embryonic growth, including whole-body remodeling, that may induce odor and food aversions, as well as nausea and vomiting. The biological mechanisms behind odor and food aversions, as well as nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy, remain largely unexplored. Our study investigated associations between these changes and cytokine profiles during pregnancy. Methodology: A cohort of pregnant Latina women in Southern California (n = 58) completed a structured questionnaire on pregnancy "morning sickness"-related symptoms and aversions. Maternal plasma cytokine levels were measured between 5 and 17 weeks' gestation. Results: About …

Psychotropic Medications Versus Non-Pharmacologic Approaches For Managing Behavioural And Psychological Symptoms In Australian Aged Care Residents With Dementia: General Practitioners’ And Physicians’ Perspectives, Hunduma D. Ayeno, Mustafa Atee, Gizat M. Kassie, Vijayaprakash Suppiah, Imaina Widagdo, Tuan A. Nguyen

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Psychotropic medications are often inappropriately prescribed for behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), posing significant risks such as falls, stroke and death. Although non-pharmacological interventions (NPIs) are the first-line treatment for BPSD, their use in practice remains limited. Objectives: This study explored general practitioners’ (GPs’) and physicians’ perspectives on using psychotropic medications compared to NPIs for managing BPSD in Australian residential aged care homes (RACHs). Design: Semi-structured online in-depth interviews were conducted with GPs and physicians managing BPSD in Australian RACHs. Methods: The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed using inductive thematic analysis, with transcripts coded using NVivo …

The Careful Project: Evaluating The Acceptability Of Local Virtual Reality Experiences As A Leisure Activity For Residents In Aged Care, Davina Porock, Patricia Cain, Christopher Young, Julieanne Hilbers, Maria Bomm, Manonita Ghosh, Mandy Stanley

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Objectives: The aim of this project was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of virtual reality (VR) as a leisure activity for people living in residential aged care. Virtual reality experiences may offer alternatives for residents with limited mobility, or during times when older people are unable to leave residential care. Methods: The intervention used VR videos delivered via a head-mounted device. Video content was created by a local artist specifically for use with older Western Australian adults and used local content. VR sessions were videotaped for analysis. The evaluation included structured observation of video content to assess mood and …

The Impact Of The Covid-19 Pandemic On Nurses' And Junior Doctors' Workloads, Gemma Doleman, Annemarie De Leo, Dianne Bloxsome

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Aims: To explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on nurses' and junior doctors' workload, changes to direct care and the impact of workload on resource allocation. Design: Mixed-method design was used. Methods: Data were collected from direct observation, hospital administrative database and a survey. Nurses and junior doctors were observed on two COVID-19 wards and one non-COVID-19 ward using a semi-structured observation schedule. Survey data were collected from nurses and junior doctors that had worked on the COVID-19 ward during the pandemic. Patient data were collected from Web Patient Administration System during the period of March–August 2021 and compared …

A Brief History Of Antenatal Colostrum Expression, And Where To From Here, Therese A. O’Sullivan, Connie N. Ihlein

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

The practice of antenatal colostrum expression (ACE), or the extraction of colostrum from the breasts during pregnancy, has an interesting history and continues to evolve. This narrative review aims to describe how perception and practices of ACE have changed over time, summarise the evidence on ACE in maternal and infant care, and highlight areas for future research. The literature demonstrates that ACE is safe for low-risk women when done from around 36 weeks’ gestation. Women should be reassured that the skill of hand expressing is a valuable tool post-birth, regardless of whether they are able to collect colostrum antenatally or …

The Work Of Midwives: The Socio-Institutional Theory Of The Meaning Of Midwives’ Work-Life Balance, Kate Buchanan, Kate Dawson, Jacqueline Taylor, Sara Bayes

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Globally, midwifery is facing a potential workforce crisis. A significant number of midwives intending to leave the profession often cite burnout as contributing to this decision. While it has been reported that work-life balance is a key element in deciding to stay in midwifery, little is known about what constitutes work-life balance and the barriers to achieving this. Aim: The aim of this study was to explore what work-life balance means to Australian midwives, and to determine its crucial features. Methods: Qualitative Description methodology was used for this study. Data were collected from 31 midwives in Australia working in …

Senior Registered Nurses' Organisational Communication Satisfaction, Job Satisfaction, Burnout, And Intention To Stay: A Cross-Sectional Study Of Two Healthcare Groups, Gemma Doleman, Kaoru Nosaka, Annemarie De Leo

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Aim: To explore organisational communication satisfaction and its impact on senior registered nurses' job satisfaction, burnout, and intention to stay. Design: A cross-sectional design using surveys. The study was conducted with senior registered nurses across two healthcare groups in Western Australia. Results: One hundred seventy-four usable surveys were returned. The results of this study indicated that those with higher communication satisfaction levels were more likely to have higher levels of job satisfaction. Senior registered nurses who intended to leave their jobs had a higher risk of emotional exhaustion and depersonalisation, which may result in higher rates of burnout compared to …

An Integrative Review Of Specialised Nursing Career Frameworks To Develop A Nursing Career Framework For Registered Nurses Working In Aged Care, Sachini Thennakoon, Seng Giap Marcus Ang, Victoria Traynor, Karen Strickland

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Aim: The aim of this study is to synthesise literature on specialised nursing career frameworks to inform the development of an aged care nursing career framework. Design: An integrative review was conducted. Method: The review followed Whittemore and Knafl's five-step integrative review method. To appraise the quality of the studies, the Quality Appraisal for Diverse Studies tool for peer-reviewed articles and the ACCODS (Authority, Accuracy, Coverage, Objectivity, Date, and Significance) checklist for grey literature were used. Data were extracted and synthesised using the constant comparison method. Data Source: The electronic databases of CINAHL, Medline, PsycINFO and Google Scholar were searched …

Through The Looking Glass; Midwifery Students' Experience Of Ethical Issues: A Feminist Explanatory Case Study, D. Bygraves, K. Wissemann, K. Buchanan

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: The ethical component in midwifery education is governed by international professional values, codes, and ethical principles. The aim of midwifery education is to encourage students to develop a lifelong commitment to ethical practice within their midwifery role and scope. However, little evidence is available on the experiences of midwifery students and how they navigate ethical issues in maternity systems. Aim: To present a case study from a midwifery students' perspective that demonstrates observed ethical issues and to provide analysis of the ethical issues identified. Design: A Single explanatory case study design with a feminist lens applied. Explanatory case studies …

Game-Based Learning Contributions To Clinical Leadership In Times Of Resource Scarcity, Scott James Andrews, Olivia Gallagher, Alecka Miles, Carol Crevacore, Jessica Watson, Sean Cashman, Wyatt De Souza, Martin Masek, Julie Boston, Lisa Holmes, Brennen Mills

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Early progression of Registered Nurses into leadership roles is commonplace in clinical settings. Student nurses can prepare for leadership by gaining exposure through simulation-based learning. A novel and expanding modality are Game-based learning (GBL) simulation.

Aim: To understand if a GBL simulation is useful in preparing student nurses for leadership roles during times of resource scarcity, student nurses were asked to evaluate a novel GBL simulation requiring learners to manage patient triage and hospital resources during a pandemic.

Methods: The study design leveraged Kirkpatrick's Training Evaluation Model. Nursing students (n = 74) from one university in Perth, Western Australia, …

Intrapartum Hydration Assessment And Management: A Cross-Sectional Survey Of Australian And New Zealand Maternity Units, Brianne G. Mcintyre, Debbie Massey, Nigel Lee, Lauren Kearney

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Hydration assessment and management during labour play an important role in maternal and newborn outcomes. Studies indicate that clinical practice is inconsistent, with limited consensus evident in clinical guidelines. Current practices in fluid management across public and private maternity units within Australia and New Zealand remain unknown. Respondents highlighted the importance of maternal hydration assessment and management to well-being. However, inconsistencies were noted in the documentation, medication use and adherence to clinical protocols. Aim: Our study aimed to investigate unit-level clinical practice regarding intrapartum hydration assessment and management across Australian and New Zealand private and public hospitals. The scope …

Patient Perception Of Involvement In Nursing Bedside Handover: A Cross-Sectional Study, Manonita Ghosh, Kaoru Nosaka, Rosemary Saunders, Olivia Gallagher, Amanda Towell-Barnard, Debannita Ghosh, Lucy Gent, Linda Coventry

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: In Australia, aligned to safety and quality standards, the health system implements standardised practices that include patient involvement in nursing bedside handover. Despite this mandate, it remains unclear whether patients are genuinely participating in nursing bedside handovers and whether their perspectives are being considered. Aim: To explore patient perceptions of their involvement in nursing bedside handovers. Methods: A cross-sectional survey study was conducted in two acute metropolitan hospitals in Western Australia from July 2021 to March 2022. The survey administered to patients, comprised three sections: demographic information; involvement in bedside handover; and perceptions of bedside handovers; utilising close-ended and …

Planned Changes To Nurse Leadership, Staffing And Skill-Mix: Impact On The Working Environment, Job Satisfaction And Intention To Leave, Noeleen Brady, Selena O'Connell, David Gilligan, Caoimhe Madden, Lisa Gannon, Victoria Howson, Jane E. Ball, Aileen Murphy, Peter Griffiths, Christine Duffield, P. Anne Scott, Vera J.C. Mc Carthy, Jonathan Drennan

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Introduction: Job satisfaction and intention to leave have been consistently linked to the working environment. However, there are few studies of interventions for improving the environment or staff outcomes. Aim: To determine the impact of implementing a framework for safe nurse staffing on the environment and staff outcomes. This involved an assessment of required nursing hours per patient day, supernumerary nurse in charge and minimum 80:20 skill-mix, with intentional changes in staffing if required. Design: A pre-post observational design. Methods: This was a prospective observational study in six medical and/or surgical wards across three acute hospitals in Ireland. The outcomes …

Weight Stigma Amongst Nurses And Nursing Students: A Scoping Review Of Direct And Comparative Evidence, Mahshid Fonoudi, Beverley Ewens, Amanda Towell-Barnard

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Aim: To map both direct and comparative research on weight stigma amongst nurses and nursing students by identifying the extent, range and nature of studies and identify the gaps in this area. Design: Scoping review, following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines. Data Sources: Seven databases including MEDLINE, Web of Science, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, PsycINFO and Cochrane Library, in addition to Google Scholar and Open Access Theses and Dissertations were systematically searched in August 2023. Methods: Inclusion criteria comprised nurses or nursing students as participants, weight stigma as the concept and any context. After uploading all search results into EndNote …

From The Icu Bedside: Applying The Transnational Clinical Academic Doctorate Lens To A Clinically Embedded Phd Journey, Gideon U. Johnson

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Aim: To critically reflect on a transnational, clinically embedded doctoral journey undertaken during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, and to draw conceptual and systemic lessons for doctoral education and clinical academic nursing pathways. Background: Reflective accounts of doctoral study exist, yet few examine practice-based PhDs conducted across different countries and health systems during a global crisis. This paper analyses one such pathway—enrolment at an Australian university with research embedded within the UK National Health Service—to explore resilience, identity formation, mentorship ecologies and organisational conditions that support or hinder clinical academic development. Method: Using analytic autoethnography and reflective case study logic, …

Enhancing Engagement In Cardiovascular Risk-Reducing Behaviors Through Motivational Text Messaging (Mtm) In An Underserved Population Of Memphis, Tennessee, Lindsey H. Dao

DNP Projects

Enhancing Engagement in Cardiovascular Risk-Reducing Behaviors Through Motivational Text Messaging (MTM) in an Underserved Population of Memphis, Tennessee

Functional And Traditional Medical Management Of Endometriosis: An Integrative Review, Madison G. Daniels

Senior Honors Theses

Endometriosis, a progressive disease that affects many women worldwide, has been managed primarily through hormonal medication, pain management and surgical intervention. However, there is a growing desire among women to use more natural and holistic methods to control the progression of this disease as well as effectively manage the severe symptoms that accompany it. This integrative review examines the efficacy of functional management as compared to traditional medical management. The pathophysiology of each treatment method and provide statistical evidence as to its efficacy. The progression of the disease, symptom management, and related side effects are all taken into consideration in …

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Among Critical Care Nurses Caring For Covid-19 Patients, Marwa Abdo

Nursing

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly impacted global health, with a substantial number of severe cases requiring admission to isolated intensive care units (ICUs). This unprecedented situation exposed critical care nurses (CCNs) to a highly stressful traumatic environment, placing them at increased risk for developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Early identification and intervention for PTSD are crucial to mitigate the negative consequences for nurses' well-being, job performance, and overall quality of life. Aim: This study aimed to assess post-traumatic stress disorder among CCNs caring for COVID-19 patients. Method: A descriptive cross-sectional design with a convenience sample of 109 CCNs …

Delayed Newborn Bathing To Increase Breastfeeding, Nadia Martino, Amanda Bace, Carrie Moneysmith, Mary Brooks, Shelly Wu, Wala Safi

Nurse Residency Posters

Facilitator: Ellie Barte, RN

Reducing Falls In Hospitalized Adults With The Use Of Bed Alarms, Tracy Hock Bsn,Rn, Marzane Hawthorne Rn, Prabesh Acharya Bsn,Rn, Megan Kuck Bsn,Rn, Jonna Hicks Bsn,Rn

Nurse Residency Posters

Facilitator: Megan Sowder

Grant Medical Center

Occupation-Based Activities For Neuroatypical Adults In Inpatient Settings, Kim Miller, Angelina Mills, Latasha Sheets

Nurse Residency Posters

Facilitators: Melissa Harper and Donita Warren

OhioHealth O-Bleness Hospital

Promoting A Culture Of Well-Being On A Nursing Unit, Jayla Campbell Rn, Jessica Detty Rn, Rebekah Krider Rn, Abby Winegardner Rn

Nurse Residency Posters

Facilitator: Ellen Villalobos

OhioHealth Berger Hospital

Evidence-Based Best Practices For Diabetes Education And Self-Care In Appalachia: A Literature Review., Angela J Occidental, Inga M Zadvinskis, Jacqueline Hoying

Nursing Articles

INTRODUCTION: The Appalachian Region has a higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and associated adverse health outcomes. Although numerous papers report best practices for diabetes care and education, a clinician-friendly, synthesized summary of best practices tailored to Appalachian cultural preferences is lacking.

PURPOSE: This paper uses the Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt evidence-based framework to identify the best practices for T2DM care and education for Appalachian residents.

METHODS: A comprehensive literature search using the databases CINAHL, Academic Search Complete, and PubMed was guided by a PICOT question. Quality appraisals were completed for fifty-two articles; thirty papers were selected to synthesize …

Everyday Decision-Making Involvement Among Hispanic & Latinx Dementia Caregivers And Its Associations With Daily Anxiety And Daily Depressive Symptoms, Abigail Poe

All ETDs from UAB

Background: Hispanic and Latinx (H&L) caregivers of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) experience elevated caregiving burden and poorer mental health outcomes compared to caregivers from other racial and ethnic groups. Limited research has examined H&L caregivers’ involvement in everyday decision-making for persons living with dementia (PLWD), particularly how this involvement may relate to daily mental health symptoms such as anxiety and depression. Purpose: This study examined baseline decision-making involvement (DMI), its associations with individual-level factors, and its relationship with daily anxiety and depressive symptoms in H&L ADRD caregivers. Methods: A secondary analysis was conducted using data …

Nursing Professional Liability: Bridging Rn & Aprn Perspectives On Risk, Coverage & Evolving Practice Authority, Michelle Hileman Msm, Rn, Cnm, Parkview Health

Nursing Publications, Posters, & Presentations

Presented at the 2025 Parkview Nursing Research Symposium.

The purpose of this literature review is to explore professional liability for RNs and APRNs. Specific objectives include:

• Identify patterns in malpractice claims for RNs and APRNs

• Compare employer-provided and personal malpractice coverage

• Examine the impact of scope-of-practice laws on APRN liability

• Clarify principles of vicarious liability

• Recommend lifelong strategies for education, risk management, and professional practice

Provider Perspectives On Produce Prescription Programs In A Rural Community, Heather Ward Dnp,Fnp-Bc, Sarah Giaquinta Md, Mph, Susan Storey Phd, Rn, Aocns

Nursing Publications, Posters, & Presentations

This poster was presented at the 2025 Nursing Research Symposium.

Purpose:

• To evaluate healthcare provider perspectives on PPPs in a rural community
• To identify barriers and facilitators to implementing a PPP
• To lay the groundwork for the successful implementation of a PPP in the Count

Pairing Vashe And Cavilon Advanced Skin Protectant For An Innovative Approach To Neonatal Diaper Dermatitis Treatment, Jennifer Thieman Msn, Rn, Accns-P, Rnc-Nic, C-Elbw, Cls

Nursing Publications, Posters, & Presentations

This poster was presented at the 2025 Nursing Research Symposium.

Objective: To implement a new process that allows Vashe and Cavilon Advanced Skin Protectant to be used together in order to improve healing time of diaper dermatitis.

Tiered Skills Acquisition Model Implementation Parkview Health Centers For Wound Healing, Harlee Heller Bsn, Rn,Csmrn, Ariel Custer Bsn, Rn

Nursing Publications, Posters, & Presentations

This poster was presented at the 2025 Parkview Nursing Research Symposium.

Implement TSAM at Parkview Centers for Wound Healing to:

• Ensure consistent delivery of high-quality nursing care
• Establish standardization to equip nurses to float between outpatient wound clinic locations, promoting flexibility and operational efficiency
• Support preceptor flexibility to continue an orientee’s training, regardless of the availability of the primary preceptor, expediting orientation
• Increase confidence of outpatient wound care nurses for independent practice following orientation
• Increase nursing retention rates

Three Wishes Project: Individualizing End Of Life Care, Sarah Seddon Rn

Nursing Publications, Posters, & Presentations

This poster was presented at the 2025 Nursing Research Symposium. •We used the journal article to create tangible ways to individualize the dying process •A binder ways created with the different “wishes” nurses can provide.