Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Notes From The Director, The Mcnair Team

McNair Scholars Research Journal

No abstract provided.

Letter From The Vice President For Research And Innovation, The Mcnair Team

McNair Scholars Research Journal

No abstract provided.

The Attachment Repair Hexagon: A Model For Recovery From Infidelity In Evangelical Marriages, Theresa C. Allen, John C. Thomas

Journal of Faith Integration Counseling (JFIC)

Many studies have examined risk factors for infidelity; however, few have investigated how couples recovered from the attachment injury of infidelity. Thus, a grounded theory pilot study was conducted by the lead author to explore the question, “What helps evangelical marriages recover after sexual infidelity by the husband?” Three evangelical couples who were a minimum of two years post-disclosure of infidelity shared their personal accounts of marital recovery. Six major findings emerged from the analysis of the data collected from their semi-structured interviews: 1) developing healthy communication; 2) obtaining support and accountability; 3) maintaining physical separation from the other woman; …

Retrospectively Exploring Differences, Relationships, And Predictors Associated With The Bedside Mobility Assessment Tool And Patient Outcomes​, Sandra Torres, Angela Ramirez, Nicole Boswell, Sigrid Somarriba, Simone Cheong, Natalie Bermudez

Nursing & Health Sciences Research Journal

Background: Prolonged immobility in hospitalized patients is prevalent and associated with hospital-acquired functional decline and other adverse hospital outcomes. Early mobilization (EM) of hospitalized patients reduces the incidence of hospital-acquired conditions. Therefore, early identification of patients’ mobility status and EM are essential. Evidence shows that using the Bedside Mobility Assessment Tool (BMAT) promotes early mobility and improved patient outcomes. The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of the BMAT assessment on patient outcomes (falls, hospital-acquired pressure injuries [HAPIs], and length of stay [LOS]). Methods: This was an IRB-approved retrospective research study. Data were collected from patient records …

Effects Of The Low-Dose, High-Frequency Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Education On Nurses’ Competency And Confidence, Claudia C. Sabogal-Rodriguez

Nursing & Health Sciences Research Journal

Background: Despite advances in resuscitation science, sudden cardiac arrest remains a leading cause of death in the United States, with substandard intra-hospital survival-to-discharge rates. High-quality resuscitation skills for nurses are needed, including effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) education. Methods: This study followed a quantitative, four-group, cross-sectional correlational approach and aimed to measure the relationship between competency and confidence when using the low-dose, high-frequency CPR educational method over time. The Modified Basic Resuscitation Skills Self-Efficacy Scale was used to measure confidence, and the Resuscitation Quality Improvement (RQI) program measured competency. Results: The results came from a sample size of 100 participants, with …

How Low Can We Go: Evaluation Of A Pharmacist-Led Weight Loss Management Program, Kelly Rubi, Elaina Rosario, Sara Panella, Jacqualine Igwe, Maria Pulido, Faaria Quadri

Nursing & Health Sciences Research Journal

Background: Obesity is a major health challenge that is associated with several health risks, including diabetes and hypertension. The purpose of this project was to evaluate the impact of clinical pharmacists on the therapy optimization of GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) in a weight management program. Methods: This project evaluated a quality improvement initiative through a retrospective chart review that included patients who were treated with semaglutide or liraglutide between October 2022 and July 2023, with body mass indices (BMI) of 27 kg/m2 or greater with at least one weight-related comorbidity or a BMI greater than or equal to 30 kg/m2. …

Pharmacist-Led Care In Collaboration With A Cardiovascular Team To Improve The Management Of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk In Hospitalized Patients, Dayana Martinez, Radhan B. Gopalani, Kristen De Almeida, Maura Falli, Lisa K. Davis, Jody Murray, Adedapo Iluyomade, Tarak S. Rambhatla, Jonathan Fialkow

Nursing & Health Sciences Research Journal

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide, affecting approximately 17.5 million people yearly. In high-risk patients, reducing lipids, decreasing blood pressure, and ceasing smoking have been shown to lower primary and secondary CVD risk. This project aims to evaluate the impact of pharmacist-led care by identifying and managing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk and further optimizing guideline-directed medical treatment (GDMT) in hospitalized patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods: This biphasic quality improvement project was conducted at a community hospital. Patients aged 18 or older with acute coronary syndrome or undergoing elective cardiac catheterization were included. Patients …

Addressing End-Of-Life Care Education Gaps For Registered Nurses: A Quality Improvement Project, Mayra Villalba, Alejandra Angel, Arvinder Singh

Nursing & Health Sciences Research Journal

Background: As the global elderly population grows rapidly, end-of-life care (EOLC) needs have expanded, warranting comprehensive nursing education. There is a significant gap in exposure to EOLC during nursing undergraduate education, clinical experiences, and training opportunities in the professional setting. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to educate nurses about end-of-life care. Methods: In an established medical-surgical unit, hospice patients with comfort-only measures were placed into a cohort labeled Transitional Care Unit (TCU). Between October 2023 and May 2024, nurses working in the TCU were surveyed on their knowledge regarding EOLC. Staff attended mandatory education sessions after the …

Assessing Prescribing Trends And Pharmacist Role In Optimization Of Iv Iron Sucrose, Katherine Fernandez, Erika Dittmar, Heidi Clarke, Stephanie Palma, Jonathan Kline

Nursing & Health Sciences Research Journal

Background: Iron deficiency can occur in the presence or absence of anemia and is defined as ferritin less than 15–30 μg/L or transferrin saturation less than 20% per the American Society of Hematology guidelines. Intravenous (IV) iron is used to treat iron deficiency when oral iron supplements are ineffective or not tolerated due to gastrointestinal issues or inability to take medications orally. Intravenous iron allows for more rapid replenishment of iron stores, especially in cases where absorption is compromised. There is no significant difference in efficacy between IV iron formulations, making cost-effectiveness a crucial consideration in product selection. Our health …

Letter From The Editor: Nurse Scientists At Baptist Health, Nohemi Sadule Rios

Nursing & Health Sciences Research Journal

No abstract provided.

Optimization Of Long-Acting Erythropoietin Stimulating Agents In Dialysis Patients During Transitions Of Care To A Community Hospital, Ryan Falcon, Erika Dittmar, Radhan Gopalani, Stephanie Palma, Heidi Clarke, Jessica Wine, Leyner Martinez

Nursing & Health Sciences Research Journal

Introduction: Many outpatient dialysis centers have transitioned to long-acting erythropoietin-stimulating agents (ESAs). However, upon admission to a hospital, long-acting ESAs are often overlooked during the medication reconciliation process, leading to therapeutic duplications and increased hospital expenditures. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to evaluate the financial impact of pharmacist prospective review and assessment of outpatient ESAs and appropriate scheduling during a hospital stay. Methods: This was a single-centered, prospective chart review of dialysis patients with initial ESA orders that took place in a non-profit community hospital in South Florida from January to March 2024. The pharmacist reviewed inpatient …

Beyond “C”: A Nurse Navigator-Led Education Project To Increase Survivorship Referrals And Cancer Survivorship Attendance, Carem Irma Costa Castro, Morgan Nestingen, Tania Silva Santos, Pamela Delongchamp, Luz Morales, Barbara Quintana, Marguerite Rowell, Merly Alonso, Natalie Bermudez

Nursing & Health Sciences Research Journal

Introduction: Recent advancements in cancer care have improved the prognosis of many cancer survivors who are living longer due to early detection and improvements in treatment. These survivors remain at risk for long-term physical treatment side effects. Survivors may also experience depression and anxiety related to fear of recurrence. Studies show many benefits for patients who participate in survivorship programs; however, participation remains low due to various barriers. The purpose of this evidence-based practice project was to implement an oncology nurse navigator (ONN)-led survivorship patient education initiative and evaluate its effectiveness on survivorship program referrals and participation. Methods: Baptist Health’s …

Building A Meditation Room To Improve Critical Care Nurse’S Work Environment: An Evidence-Based Practice Project, Jennifer Alonso, Daphne Pierre, Stephanie Wald, Stephen Breazeale

Nursing & Health Sciences Research Journal

Background: Burnout, stress, and compassion fatigue are common among nurses, especially for those working in intensive care and during night shifts, and may contribute to the global nursing shortage. Thus, nursing organizations have issued recommendations to improve workplace health. Aligned with these initiatives, we sought to improve nurses' stress by creating a meditation room in the intensive care unit at a hospital in Miami. Methods: This evidence-based practice project took place from March to August 2023. The meditation room opened in May 2023 with a variety of therapeutic modalities, including meditation, music, and aromatherapy. We conducted two custom-designed surveys to …

Addressing The Teen Mom Situation In Thailand: A Systematic Review On Challenges, Initiatives And Recommendations For Improvement, Junkkrit Wunggrath, Phinphot Phrommasen, Wanchalerm Ritthimon

Jurnal Keperawatan Indonesia

Teenage pregnancy in Thailand poses significant public health challenges with implications for societal welfare and economic development. This systematic review analyzed the challenges faced by teenage mothers in Thailand, evaluated existing initiatives, and proposed evidence-based recommendations. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the Scopus and Web of Science databases and others focusing on literature from 2016 to 2023. Keywords included “teenage pregnancy,” “teen mom,” “unwanted pregnancy,” and “unintended pregnancy” resulting in the selection of 36 studies. The PRISMA framework was followed to ensure a systematic approach. Data extraction focused on societal, educational, economic, and health-related challenges as well as …

Exploring Diet Quality, Food Insecurity, And Health Status Among Utah Residents, Palak Gupta, Lendel Narine

Journal of Human Sciences and Extension

A lower-quality diet is a significant contributor to preventable mortality worldwide. This study investigated the intricate relationships between diet quality, food insecurity, and health status among residents in Utah. Using a cross-sectional survey design with a sample size of 1,522 participants, data were collected through an online survey focusing on household characteristics, diet quality, health status, and food security. The primary exposure, household food insecurity, was assessed using a validated 6-item scale, while diet quality was measured through a modified Rapid Eating Assessment for Participants– Shortened Version (REAP-S). The findings revealed an association between very low food security and poor …

Personal Protective Equipment For Minoritized U.S. Agricultural Farmworkers: Community-Based Efforts During The Pandemic & Implications For Extension, Helen Trejo

Journal of Human Sciences and Extension

There are an estimated 2 million farmworkers who are essential to the food system in the United States; however, they are exposed to hazardous environmental conditions with limited access and/or use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The primary purpose of this research is to evaluate community-based organizational efforts to provide farmworkers with apparel-textile basic needs, such as face masks. A primary goal is to address the research gap regarding common environmental factors that impact farmworkers, including pesticides and the pandemic, their use of available PPE, and community-based efforts to improve access to face masks as basic PPE. We consider the …

Full Issue, The Mcnair Team

McNair Scholars Research Journal

No abstract provided.

The New Professional: A Guide To Finding A Mentor As A New Dentist, Amrita Patel D.D.S.

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dr. Patel provides guidance for new dentists on finding and maintaining effective mentoring relationships. She emphasizes that mentors can offer valuable guidance during the transition from dental school to clinical practice. The article explains that mentors need not be exclusively dentists and can be found through various channels, including professional associations, dental societies, alumni networks, and social media platforms. It outlines strategies for identifying potential mentors by observing their clinical skills, professionalism, and leadership styles. The piece concludes with practical advice for maintaining productive mentoring relationships, including setting clear expectations, preparing for meetings, and maintaining consistent communication. The article emphasizes …

Dentistry And The Law: Overlooked Purchase Agreement Terms, Daniel Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Selling a dental practice involves numerous legal, financial, and operational considerations. Assembling a team—including a lawyer, accountant, broker, and insurance professional—is crucial for ensuring a smooth transaction. While letters of intent are optional, they help define terms like exclusivity, due diligence, and confidentiality.

Purchase agreements, often drafted by the buyer’s lawyer, should detail asset allocation, tax implications, and handling of accounts receivable. Neglected areas such as work-in-process procedures and rework responsibilities must also be addressed to avoid disputes. Properly planning and negotiating these terms protects both buyer and seller, minimizing post-sale complications and ensuring a seamless transition of ownership.

Editorial – Dec 2024, Edwin Van Teijlingen, Abeer Musaddique, Rafat Jan

Journal of Asian Midwives (JAM)

No abstract provided.

Enhancing Respiratory Health With Post-Yoga Exercises During Pregnancy, Hiromi Ito-Kaneko, Masayuki Uehara

Journal of Asian Midwives (JAM)

Pregnancy results in enlarged uterus and diaphragm elevation, which may cause shallow breathing. These changes often cause nocturnal dyspnea, chest discomfort, and difficulty breathing, especially late pregnancy. Training of pregnant women for extending their exhalation reduces suffocation during movement, increasing comfort during pregnancy. In prenatal yoga, deep breathing is practiced and has a relaxing effect.
The purpose of this study is to determine whether yoga exercises during pregnancy improves exhalation length.
We enrolled 152 pregnant women and used a chronograph to measure their exhalation length pre- and post-yoga exercises and compared exhaled breath length by gestational age group. The pre-yoga …

The Role Of Midwives In Achieving The Global Sustainable Development Goals, Bakhtawar Muhammad Hanif Khowaja Bk, Elizabeth K. Darling

Journal of Asian Midwives (JAM)

The sustainable development goals (SDGs) provide a comprehensive framework for global development. Midwives are playing an important role in achieving the targets of the world’s priority agendas. They are actively involved in achieving the targets of SDG#2 by providing education to women on their nutritional requirements, supporting postnatal women with breastfeeding, and educating communities on the use of clean water, sanitation, and hygiene management. Beyond counseling and educating communities on nutrition and hygiene management, they are also involved in improving other health-related outcomes that are indicators for SDG#3, such as improving maternal and child immunization, counseling mothers on tobacco …

Factors Influencing Colostrum Avoidance In Developing Countries: Insights From A Literature Review, Muhammad Zeeshan Aslam, Jonathan Johnson, Marina Baig, Abeer Musaddique

Journal of Asian Midwives (JAM)

Introduction: Colostrum is a thick, sticky, clear and yellowish-coloured milk produced after the first few hours of birth until day 3. It consists of vitamin A, proteins, lipids, potassium, and maternal antibodies, including lactoferrin, immunoglobulin, growth factors and antimicrobial factors. Colostrum avoidance is the practice of squeezing out, pumping, and discarding the first milk. Various studies have reported colostrum avoidance worldwide, but its prevalence is higher in developing countries. Every day, approximately 3000 to 4000 infants die due to diarrhea and respiratory infections in developing countries, and one of the leading causes is colostrum avoidance. Infants are unable to take …

Compassionate Care In Times Of Loss: Unraveling Nurses’ And Midwives’ Perspectives To Assess Preparedness In Stillbirth: A Review Article, Nabila Salim Ali, Arusa Lakhani, Salma Rattani, Sidrah Nausheen

Journal of Asian Midwives (JAM)

Perinatal death, including stillbirth, is a tragic event that significantly impacts holistically the well-being of affected families, particularly in low-middle-income countries (LMICs), where the incidence is alarmingly high. This paper explores the profound effects of stillbirth on parental mental health, emphasizing the associated risks of mental health challenges and examining the crucial role of nurses and midwives in managing stillbirth, from providing immediate emotional support to facilitating long-term coping strategies. Despite their essential role, they face significant challenges, including inadequate training, emotional burdens, and the need for culturally sensitive care practices. Through a comprehensive review of the literature, this paper …

Improve The Referral System Of Health Care Organizations In Rural Community Settings Of Pakistan Using Health Information Technology (Hit) - A Protocol, Saleema A. Gulzar, Alishah Aziz Gulzar, Zahid Ali Faheem, Ayesha Arif, Aamir Sarfaraz

Journal of Asian Midwives (JAM)

Pakistan is a developing country, with 65% of the population residing in rural areas. The rural population is considered vulnerable mainly due to several factors, including poverty. Climate change and the area's topography limit their access to basic human needs such as basic healthcare, affecting their quality of life. Most people lack basic information about the location and availability of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, diagnostic centres, pharmacies, and general clinics. Hence, the rural healthcare system lacks primary care physicians, nurses, midwives and allied health professionals. Inappropriate infrastructure makes it challenging to retain qualified professionals. A non-profit and non-governmental entity aims …

Kolcaba’S Comfort Theory: A Framework For Understanding The Significance Of Skin-To-Skin Care After Childbirth, Aqsa Nizar Ali

Journal of Asian Midwives (JAM)

Despite the WHO recommendations and evidenced-based results of skin-to-skin contact, it is quite an uncommon practice witnessed after childbirth. Compared to research conducted in low and middle-income nations, the majority of the studies conducted in high-income countries revealed greater rates of SSC [11]. Skin-to-skin contact, a nurturing practice, has gained significant recognition as a cornerstone of early infant care. Beyond its physiological benefits, skin-to-skin contact fosters a profound sense of comfort and connection between mother and infant. Kolcaba's theory of comfort, a comprehensive framework for understanding and promoting comfort, provides a valuable lens to explore the multifaceted benefits of skin-to-skin …

Burden Of Vascular Neurological Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Multicenter Study, Shafaq Saleem, Safia Awan, Ibrar Rafiq, Muhammad Hassan Shaikh, Anjum Farooq, Maimoona Siddiqui, Zainab Aslam Saeed Memon, Alam Ibrahim Siddiqui

Pakistan Journal of Neurological Sciences (PJNS)

Background and Objective

Stroke remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with a particularly high burden in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) such as Pakistan. Despite its growing prevalence, limited nationwide data exist on vascular diseases, their risk factors, and disability outcomes. The objective of this study was to identify the frequency and age-stratified type of vascular disease incidence among in-patient hospital admissions.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was conducted across 39 neurology centers in Pakistan, spanning both public and private sectors from August 2017 to December 2019. Data on demographics, comorbidities, and stroke type were systematically collected …

Electrographic Significance Of Periodic Discharges And Association With Etiology And Outcome In A Tertiary Care Hospital: A Retrospective Cohort Study, Hina Imtiaz, Zainab Memon, Ayisha Farooq Khan, Dureshahwar Kanwar, Safia Awan

Pakistan Journal of Neurological Sciences (PJNS)

Background and Objective

Periodic discharges on electroencephalograms (EEGs) are rhythmic waveforms that may indicate acute or subacute brain injury. This aim of this study was to determine the frequency distribution of periodic discharge subtypes on EEG and to assess their association with underlying etiologies and clinical outcomes in a tertiary care hospital.

Methods

This retrospective observational cohort study included neurological patients aged ≥18 years admitted to the medical ICU or ward of Aga Khan University Hospital between January 1, 2021, and January 1, 2023, with periodic discharges on EEG. Patients with prior traumatic brain injury were excluded. Data on demographics, …

Epilepsy In Pakistani Adolescents Amid The Vaping Epidemic, Maheen Kalwar, Eisha Tur Raazia, Harmain Naz Shaikh

Pakistan Journal of Neurological Sciences (PJNS)

No abstract provided.

New Onset Seizures Evolving Into Refractory Status Epilepticus In The Setting Of Covid-19: A Case Report, Mahira Mushtaq, Zuha Amin, Shafaq Saleem, Fowzia Siddiqui

Pakistan Journal of Neurological Sciences (PJNS)

The novel Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has been shown to involve the nervous system (both central and peripheral), with or without respiratory involvement in multiple ways. Although not much is known about this disease yet, seizures and status epilepticus which may evolve into refractory status epilepticus have been associated with it along with other manifestations like encephalopathy, neuropathies etc. The mechanism for development of seizures with COVID-19 related disease is not entirely known however it can be the consequence of “cytokine release syndrome” or “cytokine storm” which has been associated with this virus. Patients with COVID-19 infection who develop resistant status …