Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

The Impact Of Infographics For Health Education On A Short-Term Medical Service Trip To The Dominican Republic, Patricia Devine Pharmd, Lauren Wathen Pharmd

BU Well

This study evaluated the impact of an infographic on patient recall of health information during a medical service trip. During two service trips in May 2018 and May 2019, patients with a history of high blood pressure from an underserved community in the Dominican Republic received an anonymous four-question pre assessment evaluating their knowledge of high blood pressure prevention and treatment. The provider then educated the patients about high blood pressure prevention and treatment using an infographic. The patients received an identical post-assessment. The median total scores for 2018 and 2019 were 75% on the pre-assessment versus 87.5% on the …

Evaluating Patient's Knowledge Regarding Opioid Prescriptions In An Independent Community Pharmacy: A Pilot Study, Lauren Chars Pharmd, Patricia Devine Pharmd, Tyler Girton Pharmd

BU Well

This study evaluated patients’ knowledge regarding their opioid prescriptions and identified what resources were used to educate patients on their opioid prescriptions. Patients receiving an opioid prescription from an independent pharmacy were given a link to complete a nine-question anonymous survey about their awareness of their prescription being an opioid, how and what education they received, and from whom. The authors hope that the findings of this research will help to better understand effective ways to combat the opioid epidemic and promote patient safety through effective opioid education.

A Workout A Day Keeps Depression Away, Hannah Voss

BU Well

The issue of mental health in adolescent females is vastly growing in America, especially depression. Depression is largely treated by pharmacologic therapy, but that can result in many side effects and is associated with a harsh stigma that can deter the patient from continuing their medication regimen. With this said, it remains important to look at other means to treat depression, and one of the best alternative solutions right now is exercise. This article presents research that shows how exercise can greatly improve and prevent depressive symptoms, while also decreasing the stigma associated with treating depression, particularly among adolescent females.

Healthcare For All Colors: Anti-Racism In Medical Professions, Elise Wang

BU Well

Racism in the United States' healthcare system has a longstanding history and exists at both the macro and microlevel. Medical professionals have a responsibility to be anti-racist in their practices. Healthcare providers and organizations can create a more equitable and beneficial medical experience for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) patients through anti racism praxis, increasing the health literacy of patients, and shifting power to patients to equalize the provider-patient dynamic. While these initiatives cannot bring the systemic change needed to fully eradicate racism from medicine, it will join providers and patients together in the fight against interpersonal, and …

The Future Electronic Pharmaceutical Brain, Steve Varghese

BU Well

With the rise of technology in the healthcare setting, it is important to consider which form of technology will make the most beneficial change. The technology that can make that change is artificial intelligence. Artificial intelligence is being implemented more and more in our world, so it is the time for pharmacy to consider integrating it into its own field.

Percs Of Being An Athlete: Athlete Use And Misuse Of Opioids, Mel Sturgill

BU Well

The opioid crisis has plagued this country for decades and athletes are not exempt from this statement. This paper discusses the prevalence of opioid use and misuse among adolescent and professional athletes. This results in an immense opportunity for healthcare professionals to come together and educate teams and players to provide alternative pain management therapies for acute and chronic pain.

Sex Ed 101: A Case For Sex Education As Part Of The First-Year Student Experience, Ansleigh Seaver, Pa-S, Mpas-2

BU Well

Many students do not receive any, much less comprehensive, sex education during their high school years. Universities should prioritize integrating sex education curriculum into their first-year student experience. Promoting sex-positive dialogues will foster a campus community of communication and acceptance.

A Disease Of Isolation: Alcohol Use Disorder And The Covid-19 Pandemic, Hollyann Sanangelo

BU Well

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a chronic brain disorder that results in adverse social, mental, and physical effects. Many people with AUD rely on 12-step abstinence programs to provide them the structure and support they rely on to stay sober. With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, patients with AUD have undergone long stretches without connection to friends and loved ones or the rigidity of a school/work schedule. This article examines the negative impacts of the pandemic on Americans with AUD, what measures are currently being taken to assist them, and what more research needs to be done.

Materialism To Minimalism, Tial Par

BU Well

In the modern era, happiness is often measured in terms of wealth, possession, and abundance. However, contrary to what the current capitalist, consumerist society wants its members to believe, less is actually more. The ubiquitous culture of materialism places human beings in a constant state of competition with one another, which overrides mindfulness of oneself and one’s relationships. There is only one way to break free from the competitive cycle: minimalism. This article defines minimalism, exhibits the modalities by which minimalism combats materialism, and provides helpful tips on integrating minimalism into one’s life.

Animals On Drugs: The Role Of Pharmacists In Veterinary Medicine, Kylie Kelley

BU Well

With medication errors and unpreparedness of pharmacists in handling pet prescriptions becoming more prevalent, to compensate the deficiency there should be an increase in education and interprofessional collaboration. By providing pharmacists with a thorough education of animal pharmacology, pharmacists would more effectively thrive within their scope of practice and improve pet safety and collaboration with other veterinary healthcare providers. Whether a student pharmacist wants to specialize in veterinary pharmacy or retail pharmacy, it is important for the animal’s well-being that someone who verifies the prescriptions does so correctly and with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions for animal patients.

Better Together: An Exploration Of Interfaith Ideologies, Meet Patel, Hannah Beaven, James Ewing, Daniel Meyers

BU Well

In a world full of polarizing agents that function to divide society, the binding nature of interfaith ideologies serves to develop meaningful relationships between individuals, groups, and communities that subscribe to various religious or secular belief systems. Interfaith dialogue and cooperation encapsulate one’s ability to genuinely listen, share stories, and embrace growth and learning, not despite but because of differences. This article explores the influence of interfaith work on college campuses, within urban communities, and throughout the fields of medicine and global health. These are all specific aspects of a society that has the potential, now more than ever before, …

Examining Zika Virus: Transmission, Diagnosis, Treatment, And Prevention, Noura Taybeh

BU Well

The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne virus that was first isolated in Uganda in 1947 and has since caused outbreaks in many parts of the world. It has multiple routes of transmission and may cause acute illness and death if not treated. The Zika virus becomes a major concern if transmitted from mother to fetus as it increases the chance of birth defects and developmental problems to the unborn baby. This article highlights the importance of early diagnosis and describes Zika virus’ transmission, treatment, and prevention.

Your Best Shot At Surviving The Flu Season, Isabella Liu

BU Well

Millions of individuals become ill from the influenza virus every year. As an existing public health issue, it is important for patients to understand that the best way to combat the influenza virus is through prevention. This article explores key aspects of the influenza vaccine and highlights its importance in the healthcare community.

Artificial Organs: Syncardia Heart, Kaity Keesling

BU Well

With an increased prevalence of cardiovascular disease, heart transplants are on the rise. As a result, the need for donor hearts exceeds current availability. To care for heart failure patients, healthcare professionals have developed the SynCardia total artificial heart. This article explains the artificial heart and its implementation into clinical practice.

Circumventing The Snake Oil: An Analysis Of Cam Cancer Therapies, Chris Zeheralis

BU Well

Since the dawn of recorded human history, humans have searched for ailments to the diseases that plague our everyday lives. However, as each new cure or treatment was discovered, thousands of unsubstantiated and unproven therapies follow behind it. With the advancement of the internet and modern communication, these therapies have found their ways into the minds of consumers. The article highlights three common unproven therapies used by patients, as well as addressing the nuances of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM).

Take A Hike – No Really, It’S Good For Your Health, Nathan Weller

BU Well

Mental health and its treatment remain prevalent concerns across the United States. As such, the importance of activities that promote mental well-being cannot be understated. One such example includes the use of nature to minimize negative, depressive thoughts while promoting their positive counterparts. This new area of focus, often known as ecotherapy, will be detailed in the following article.

“Put Me In Coach!”: How Pharmacists Can Contribute To Elite Sports, Mel Sturgill

BU Well

Professional and amateur athletes alike often have teams of healthcare professionals that oversee the care of injuries. Among these healthcare professionals, pharmacists have not been included as a member of the care team. Pharmacists are medication experts that can help mitigate medication mistakes and adverse reactions. Additionally, the pharmacist can provide medication information and doping awareness to help athletes reach and maintain their top performance levels in a healthy and safe manner.

An Aching For Affection, Tj Quinlan

BU Well

As humans, we’ve needed companionship from the beginning of time. Therefore, what does a true relationship look like in today’s society? In this world of newly emerging relationships, many people have either experienced, seen, or heard of a toxic relationship. This article dives deep into what makes a toxic relationship, how to notice the red flags, and how to ultimately fix or end it.

Weighing The Effects Of Food Marketing To Children, Serena Panos

BU Well

The marketing tactics used to promote food products in the United States has grown exponentially over recent years. Companies no longer promote products through traditional television commercials alone but utilize their ability to reach consumers through a multitude of modern social media outlets. Because of this, food promotions are all around us. However, the advertising and marketing of food targeted at children and adolescents may not be as harmless as it seems. This article explores why the progressive target marketing of food to children may be a key factor in the rapid growth rate of childhood obesity in the United …

The Not So Hidden Dangers Of Vaping, Hannah Lee

BU Well

The use of e-cigarettes and vaping devices has become a widely accepted trend in our society. These devices come with many negative effects that pose harm to one’s health. This article examines the truths about these dangers and the risks associated with vaping.

Get Your Head In The Game: On And Off The Field, Katelyn Le

BU Well

Mental health has recently become a popular topic on college campuses. New resources and programs are being implemented to ensure the mental wellbeing of students, however, on-campus athletic programs seem to be lagging behind. Athletic departments have trainers and methods to track physical wellness, but often do not have tools to measure mental wellness. This article not only explores the transition and challenges of student athletes, but sheds light on the intense mental aspect of college athletics.

A Game Of Phones: Capitalizing On Health Applications, Gamification, And Improving Patient Outcomes, Kim Hazel

BU Well

Healthcare applications are certainly on the rise. Advances in application technology, such as gamification, have the ability to transform patient health and clinical research from the palm of our hands. Is it time for healthcare providers to support and implement these technology trends?

Stress: The Silent Sickness, Neethu George

BU Well

From cramming for a test to arguing with a friend, individuals experience stress every day. While stress can be beneficial in certain situations, letting stress get out of control can lead to a variety of mental and physical health issues. This article examines the different types of stress, ways to cope with stress, and the overall effect of stress on human health.

Extended Infusions Of Meropenem For Febrile Neutropenia, Daniel J. Przybylski, Pharmd, David J. Reeves, Pharmd, Bcop

BU Well

Background: Neutropenic fever is an oncologic emergency that requires quick intervention with anti-pseudomonal beta-lactam antibiotics, such as meropenem. Previous literature suggests that extended infusions of beta-lactam antibiotics may improve clinical outcomes. To date, there are 3 prior studies utilizing an extended infusion beta-lactam in this population; however, there is only one previous study investigating the use of extended infusion meropenem in patients with febrile neutropenia.

Objective: To describe the outcomes of eight patients receiving extended infusions of meropenem for the treatment of febrile neutropenia.

Methods: A retrospective chart review was completed including adult patients admitted to a community teaching hospital …

The Physiological Basis For Vitamin C As A Potential Treatment For Sepsis, Jennifer Johnston

BU Well

Accounting for one third of all hospital patient deaths in America, sepsis remains one of the most deadly and complicated conditions that healthcare providers treat. Septic shock, a progressed form of sepsis, is even more troublesome, as mortality rates typically fall between 50-72%. It has been proposed that administration of high doses of vitamin C could be an effective treatment for the condition due to the nutrient’s anti-stress and anti-shock properties. This investigation of the physiological reasoning for administering high doses of vitamin C evaluates the viability of its use in patients with septic shock.

Nanomedicine For The Treatment Of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, Tanvi Gandhi, B.Pharm

BU Well

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, or NHL, is the predominant category of lymphoma. NHL is a type of lymphoid hematopoietic malignancy which approximately 70,000 Americans are diagnosed with annually, with the number of diagnoses growing annually. For decades, chemotherapy was the standard treatment of care, but since the discovery in 1997, monoclonal antibodies are increasingly used as an alternate form of therapy. Nonetheless, almost 20,000 Americans succumb to NHL annually, which highlights the translational gap between preclinical research and the market. Although a lot of progress has been made in therapy options by immunotherapy and combination chemotherapy, the ingenuity of nanomedicine may bridge …

The Ketogenic Diet: An Answer For Autism?, Anne Perez

BU Well

Lacking substantial evidence regarding its genetic identity, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a remarkably misunderstood condition with limited options for effective treatment. As the prevalence of patients with ASD increases, medical professionals continue to search for a solution. Could the ketogenic diet, a high fat, low carbohydrate nutrition plan, provide the relief that ASD patients are searching for?

Butting Heads: Tackling Football Concussion And Prevention, Mandy Mcdaniel

BU Well

Hundreds of thousands of sports concussions occur each year in the United States, and almost half of them are the result of a football injury. Even though they may not initially appear serious, concussions can lead to extreme cognitive impairments in those affected. This article highlights the importance of treating concussions properly and educating coaches, parents, and athletes on the value of allowing young athletes to take the time they need to fully recover.

The Misuse Of Over-The-Counter Nsaids, Sara Hudson

BU Well

Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are some of the most frequently used analgesics. The misuse of these medications occurs frequently and often without the patient’s realization. Inappropriate use can cause acute NSAID overdoses or contribute to serious adverse effects. Health care providers continue to play an important role in emphasizing the safe use of these medications. This article examines the impacts of NSAID misuse in our society and how health care professionals can help address these issues.

Prescribing Exercise For Chronic Pain Management, Katie Hettinger

BU Well

In light of the opioid crisis, practitioners are looking for alternative ways to effectively treat pain. Utilizing exercise modalities as a method of pain management is becoming increasingly popular and more research is being done in this area than ever before. This article analyzes different research regarding exercise therapy for pain management, as well as what type of exercise has been found to be most beneficial for patients in pain.