Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Resiliency In School Experiences: A Dropout Prevention Initiative, Stephanie L. Smith

OT Student Capstones

The ramifications of high school dropout have significant adverse effects both for individuals and society. High school graduation is the social determinant that strongly predicts long-term health and success (American Public Health Association, n.d.). Unfortunately, more than 500,000 high school students dropout each year without the skills and credentials needed to become successful, productive members of society (Communities in Schools, 2009). The dropout numbers for ethnic minorities are disproportionately high. In 2009, the proportions of 16 to 24- year-old high school dropouts were 10.7% for African Americans, 15.9% for American Indians, and 17.9% for Hispanics (Center for Mental Health in …

Occupational Therapy In Community Corrections And Reentry: Program Implementation For Adult Males With Addiction, Cassandra E. Sankey

OT Student Capstones

The evolution of incarceration, or confinement, began in the 18th century with the Quakers, known as the Pennsylvania system, an isolation and penitence ideology (Penner, 1978). Later, the Auburn system was implemented in the 19th century, which embraced an approach of mental isolation (Penner, 1978). Today, citizens entrust the criminal justice system with the power to protect communities from individuals who commit crimes (Muñoz, Moreton, & Sitterly, 2016). Therefore, the United States criminal justice system diversified the supervision of lawbreakers based upon the severity of their crimes, such as jail, prison, probation, and parole. This has led to decades of …

New Frontiers 2019-20 Brochure

Annual Brochures

Established in 2013, the New Frontiers in Biomedical Research Seminar Series is a year-long research lecture series at Louisiana Tech University. This series brings world-renowned researchers from a variety of biomedical fields to campus where students and faculty have the opportunity to learn and interact with leaders in their fields of study. These seminars represent the interests and efforts of different colleges and academic programs across campus who share a passion for research that seeks to understand and improve human health and medicine.

Starting in November, all seminars will be held at Louisiana Tech University in University Hall beginning at …

Epidural Analgesia Effect In Labor And Delivery, Deka A. Abdulle

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Epidural analgesia has an impact on duration of labor, type of delivery and the neonate. Good research data supports epidural analgesia shorts first stage of labor, lengthens second stage, increases instrumental delivery but no increased risk for cesarean delivery. Epidural analgesia has no effect on neonatal Apgar scores but decreases initiating and duration of breastfeeding.

Enhancing The Effectiveness Of Special Olympics Minnesota’S Health Promotion Programming, Avery R. Bajema, Laura Marie Hayes, Kelsey B. Kostreba, Shelly Winslow

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Nearly 3% of the world’s population have an intellectual disability. A link exists between intellectual disability and higher rates of chronic and preventable diseases, which is partially attributed to lack of health education geared toward individuals with intellectual disability. Health promotion programs can provide health-related resources and education. Health promotion programs are often standardized, making it challenging to meet the various learning needs of individuals with intellectual disability. Special Olympics is the largest organization that provides health-related programming for those with intellectual disability. In Minnesota, the Special Olympics branch known as Health Promotion has reported difficulty with meeting the goal …

Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis: Physician Assistants' Perspectives, Understandings, And Ethical Considerations, Sarah K. Barnes, Samantha J. Caron, Claire E. Johnson

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While factors contributing to rates of approval and disapproval of preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) have been studied at length, the perspective of Physician Assistants’ (PA) approval and disapproval of PGD has not been studied, nor the common reasons why PAs approve or disapprove of PGD. The first goal of this study was to identify approval and disapproval rates of PGD amongst PAs. The next goal was to identify common reasons PAs approve or disapprove of PGD utilization. Members of the California Academy of Physician Assistants [CAPA (CA)] and Kansas Academy of Physician Assistants [KAPA (KS)] completed an adapted, electronic survey …

Barriers And Strategies To Life-Style And Dietary Pattern Interventions For Prevention And Managment Of Type-2 Diabetes In Africa., Hirut B. Bekele

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Background: Diabetes mellitus is the major chronic illness in Africa that requires lifelong life-style interventions and pharmacological therapy. The main contributing factors for the rise of diabetes in Africa are urbanization, population changes, and life-style changes (Kengne, Amoah & Mbanya, 2005). Diabetes is the fourth leading cause of mortality in the world and accounts for 80% of the deaths that occur in underdeveloped countries. Life-style change is the most important aspect of diabetes care and includes diabetes self -management education and support (DSMES), medical nutrition therapy (MNT), physical activity, smoking cessation counseling, and psychosocial care. Purpose: The purpose of this …

A Qualitative Examination Of Vaccine Hesitancy Among Mothers, Alicia L. Benner, Annie Vasterling, Teia Wolter

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Vaccine hesitancy describes the reluctance to vaccinate or the delay of vaccines (World Health Organization [WHO], 2017a). Various factors contribute to vaccine hesitancy for patients (Salmon, Dudley, Glanz, & Somer, 2015), and multiple sources are used by patients to gain vaccine information (Salmon et al., 2015), making it difficult for healthcare providers to address vaccine hesitancy. This research was conducted to identify factors that cause mothers to be vaccine hesitant and information sources used to support the mothers’ vaccination beliefs. Phone interviews were conducted with twelve vaccine hesitant mothers. Participants were asked if the following factors contributed to their vaccine …

The Effect Of Amniotomy On Labor Progression, Lauren Marie Casey, Eric Johann Judd Ii

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Background/Purpose: Amniotomy has been a tool used for over 50 years to progress labor. This literature review researches the effects that amniotomy has on active labor progression. Theoretical Framework: The theoretical framework selected for this literature review was The System’s Model by Betty Neuman. This theory focuses on the effects that internal and external forces have on health. This was selected because of the effects that amniotomy can have on labor progression. Methods: For this review, the 20 articles were selected following a search in The Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), CINAHL Plus, Cochrane Database of …

An Overview Of Diabetes And Community Health Concerns In Guatemala, Jennifer A. Davidson, Halie M. Higgins, Alex Krona, Danny R. Luna

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Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has emerged as a worldwide epidemic in recent years. Rates of this disease continue to rise annually. While many countries have adequate access to prevent and treat T2DM, developing countries often lack education and resources to combat the diabetes epidemic. This shortcoming results in alarming rates of uncontrolled T2DM cases among individuals in developing countries, namely, Guatemala. Additionally, the lack of resources in Guatemala results in a myriad of other health disparities beyond T2DM including deficiencies in sanitation and adequate nutrition. This community service project specifically aims to address the disproportionate burden of T2DM, sanitation, …

Identification Of Medical Distress By Washington County Correctional Officers: A Community Service Project, Laura Driscoll, Lauren Gimmestad, Mary Gritton

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Throughout the United States incidence of suicide, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and drug withdrawal is increasing. Not only are these issues prevalent in the general population, but are also a regular cause of medical distress within the walls of correctional facilities (Centers for Disease Control, 2017b). At Washington County Jail, correctional officers are often the first responders in cases of medical distress (R. Heinin, personal communication, October 16th, 2018). It is for this reason that correctional officers are required to undergo mandatory training regarding medical care. The Washington County Jail Commander felt that current correctional officer training could be improved upon …

How Nurse-Midwives Can Best Support Families Who Have Experienced Perinatal Loss, Tina Marie Egner, Jennifer J. Kluck

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Background/Purpose: Although perinatal loss remains a common occurrence and nurse-midwives are instrumental in this care, the American College of Nurse-Midwives has yet to issue a position statement or professional care guidelines for providers. The purpose of the paper is to explore the literature to answer the research question: how can nurse-midwives best support families who have experienced a perinatal loss? The specific focal areas will examine best practices for providers based on current evidence. Theoretical Framework: Kristen Swanson’s (1991) Theory of Caring will serve as the conceptual framework to address the research question. Swanson’s middle range nursing theory of caring …

A Community Outreach Project Addressing Mental Health, Obesity, And Asthma In Underserved Saint Paul Youth, Anna Ehnstrom, Ellie Hoopman, Caitlin Olson

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Due to a lack of resources, awareness, and reinforcement of information, underserved youth are predisposed to unique health concerns. The health disparities prevalent among children living in poverty are many, but the topics of focus for this community outreach project include mental health, obesity, and asthma. Supplemental health education curriculum has the potential to alleviate the health disparities prevalent among such a vulnerable population (Thomas & Aggleton, 2016). To address the health disparities present specifically among underserved youth in St. Paul, MN, the group partnered with the after-school tutoring program at Central Baptist Church to provide education on the topics …

The Impact Of Midwifery Care On Racial Disparities In African American Women And Infants, Madeline Grace Englund, Antionette Renee Estis

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Background/Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to critically examine scholarly writings to understand the history and current manifestations of racism in maternal and perinatal outcomes and reproductive health care and to provide insight on how midwives can be impactful to the health disparities that impact Black women and infants. Theoretical Framework: Dr. David Williams created a framework for understanding the relationship between race and health. Understanding the differential distribution of adverse health consequences within racial groups is essential to developing effective solutions to these problems. Race is constructed of biological factors, social, and economic structures by which groups live …

Labor Induction Methods And Their Impact On Duration Of Labor And Rate Of Cesarean Section, Ashley M. Golinghorst

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Background/Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to critically review current literature regarding current methods for labor induction and their impact on the duration of labor and rate of cesarean section. Theoretical Framework: Imogene King’s Theory of Goal Attainment is the framework used for this literature appraisal. King’s theory focuses on the dynamic interacting systems for goal attainment (Gonzalo, 2011). Methods: Twenty-one original research articles involving labor induction methods were critically reviewed. Additionally, six systematic reviews involving labor induction methods were also included. Results/Findings: Labor induction is associated with an overall increased risk of cesarean section. Intravenous oxytocin use alone …

Smoking In The Homeless Population: Implementation Of A Smoking Cessation Program At The Union Gospel Mission Men’S Campus In St. Paul, Minnesota, Benjamin James Hageman, Chandler R. Hutton, Matthew Schull, Nathaniel Van Loon

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The health consequences of smoking disproportionately impact the homeless population. The homeless population has a higher rate of smoking (70%) than the general population (21%) and has a 5-fold decrease in smoking cessation success rates (Baggett & Rigotti, 2010). However, the percentage of homeless smokers who wish to quite is comparable with non-homeless populations (84% to 82% respectively) (Baggett, Lebrun-Harris, & Rigotti, 2013). The purpose of this community service project was to alleviate some of the smoking cessation barriers that homeless populations face, allowing them to pursue better health and greater independence. By partnering with the homeless shelter, Union Gospel …

Understanding The Role Of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Among Women With Fibromyalgia: A Review Of The Literature, Emily Hall

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Background: Women with fibromyalgia (FM) experience a range of symptoms threatening the integrity of their overall wellbeing. Since no cure exists, management to reduce symptoms, disability, and improve functionality is the focus. Promising outcomes have been demonstrated when cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is used as a complementary measure to other treatments to increase an individual’s coping mechanisms through various exercises. Purpose: The Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms (TOUS), introduced by Elizabeth Lens and colleagues in 1995, provided a guiding framework to evaluate the effectiveness of multidisciplinary therapy with CBT in controlling influencers of pain and general symptom intensity. Results: Nineteen studies …

Significance Of Spirituality Among Individuals With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities, Carlee N. Hunter, Sarah E. Kivisto

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Previous literature has demonstrated a relationship between spirituality and positive health outcomes in the general population. However, little research has been done on the role spirituality plays in the lives of individuals with DD (intellectual and developmental disabilities). The purpose of this study was to identify the prevalence of spirituality in IDD individuals and involvement in spiritual activities. This was done with the goal of identifying potential barriers preventing the optimal practice of spirituality in the lives of those with disabilities. This study targeted IDD individuals living in a residential group home setting by collaborating with ACR Homes, a residential …

Interventions For Promoting Earlier Enrollment Into Hospice And Palliative Care Among Patients With A Terminal Illness, Jody K. Kampa

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Background: Although research supports palliative care (PC) to improve symptoms and quality of life for patients with terminal illnesses, these services are underutilized. While 80% of people prefer to die at home, the majority still die in an acute care facility, sometimes receiving aggressive interventions that may increase suffering up until the very end of life. Earlier referral to PC or hospice care can improve symptom management and facilitate end-of-life (EOL) wishes. Purpose: The purpose of this critical review of literature was to identify barriers as well as evidenced-based interventions to promote earlier enrollment into hospice and PC among patients …

The Fertile Window, Ashley Joy Jensen

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Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to examine various biological indicators and tracking methods to determine which are the most accurate in identifying the fertility window for reproductive-aged women. Results: Whether the woman has regular or irregular cycles is a major determinant of what method can be successfully utilized. Additionally, the woman’s desire to achieve a pregnancy and her preference regarding intensity of the necessary training are significant factors in choosing a method. Use of two biologic indicators is discussed as some research points to this being the most effective. Finally, recommended web and mobile applications are discussed with …

Risks And Benefits Of Trial Of Labor After Cesarean When Compared To Elective Repeat Cesarean Section In Rural Facilities, Cassie Marie Kurtz, Anna Ruth Picker

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Background/Purpose: Trial of Labor After Cesarean (TOLAC) is a safe delivery option formany women. Due to demographics, availability in rural communities, and lack of education and opportunity, many women are not attempting them. Women should have access to TOLAC regardless of their geographic location, socio-economic status, or insurance. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) practice bulletin urges that facilities have an emergency plan in place if an emergent cesarean is required. It does not state that staff must be immediately available. Rather, it recommends that facilities provide cesarean delivery for situations that are threatening to the life of …

Understanding Public Perception Of Telemedicine, Carolyn Majkrzak, Sarah Strenke, Katie Vraspir

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The healthcare system in the United States is struggling to meet the needs of a growing patient population amidst the burden of provider shortages and rising costs, where no simple or easy answer exists. However, telemedicine has emerged as a possible solution with well documented benefits such as increasing provider coverage and saving costs. Despite the proven benefits, many people do not use telemedicine and there is little data to answer why it is underutilized. Therefore, this study sought to understand the public’s perception of telemedicine service. It was hypothesized that gender, age, number of children in the household, education …

Teaching Resilience To Nurses And Nursing Students, Laura Elizabeth Mckinney

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Background: Nurses are leaving the profession at high rates and many of them cite compassion fatigue and burnout as the cause. Nursing students leave their schooling at even higher rates. Developing resilience in nursing students and practicing nurses will prevent many from changing careers. Purpose: The purpose of this critical review of the literature is to answer the question: How can nurse educators encourage the growth of resilience in nursing students and practicing nurses? Results: Using the Johns Hopkins Research Evidence Appraisal Tool (Dearholt & Dang, 2002), eighteen high quality and good quality articles were reviewed for this project. This …

Education And Support For Patients And Families With Pediatric Chronic Kidney Disease: A Community Service Project, Dulcey Amaia Milek, Emily Josephine Petersen, Aimie Beth Seehafer

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With any chronic illness, there may be difficulties that arise such as symptom control, medical management, and resource and support availability. In addition, pediatric populations may require more complex care due to the child’s continuing development, the need for family involvement, and the eventual transition into adult healthcare. With that, the purpose of the community service project was to provide education and support for families living with pediatric chronic kidney disease (CKD), a chronic illness that affects children worldwide. By working with the National Kidney Foundation (NKF), the research team was able to build an educational track for the pediatric …

Patient Disclosure Of Complementary And Alternative Medicine And The Patient-Provider Relationship, Kathryn V. Ortmann, Norsha Scheil, Thomas Stearns

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Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is becoming increasingly prevalent in the United States, with notable usage of supplements, deep breathing exercises, and chiropractic care. Despite this influx of CAM, nearly half of patients do not report their CAM use to their medical provider (Jou & Johnson, 2016). Disclosing these practices to a medical provider is pertinent to patient safety, as a number of potential drug interactions and side effects are associated with different CAM practices. Current literature illustrates specific provider attributes help facilitate an open dialogue with patients, or more specifically, a positive patient-provider relationship. This research study examines if …

Effects Of Labor Support From Doulas On Birth Outcomes, Mattea Jo Otten

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Background/Purpose: Women using a doula for support during labor and childbirth is increasing, with 6% of women in 2012 utilizing doulas (Dekker, 2017). The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists [ACOG] recommends one-to-one labor support to improve labor outcomes. The purpose of this literature review was to determine the effects of labor support from doulas on birth outcomes. Theoretical Framework: Kolcaba's Theory of Comfort can be used during childbirth. This theory focuses on relief, ease, and transcendence, allowing women the opportunity to rise above the pain and experience comfort, even when their pain is not gone. Doula support is intended …

Strategies To Improve English As An Additional Language (Eal) Nursing Student Communication, Kellie Ann Quesada

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Background: The demand for diverse nurses to care for an increasingly diverse population in the United States is growing. Nursing programs need to have strategies in place to support nursing students who a speak English as an Additional Language (EAL). Adequate communication skills are an essential part of the nurse- patient relationship and can be complicated by language barriers. Strategies to improve this communication need to be evaluated to ensure that resources are dedicated to the most efficient strategies. Purpose: The purpose of this review is to determine the most effective strategies to improve communication skills in nursing students who …

The Effectiveness Of Non-Pharmacological Touch Therapies In Labor, Heather Rice

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Background/Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to critically analyze literature in order to determine the effectiveness of non-pharmacological touch therapies during labor. The touch therapies included in this literature review are acupuncture, acupressure, massage, and sterile water injections. The specific outcomes studies are labor pain, duration of labor, labor progress, mode of delivery, maternal satisfaction, and neonatal outcomes. Theoretical Framework: The Modeling and Role Modeling Theory can be used as a foundation for the utilization of non-pharmacological touch therapies in labor. This theory is a self-care model based on the clinical perception of the world and adaptations to stressors …

Nursing Strategies To Meet The Communication Needs Of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Elizabeth A. Voss

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Background: Parents reported their children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) needs are unmet or delayed in health care settings. Health care providers stated they were not comfortable caring for children with ASD. Since communication impairment is the hallmark of ASD, nurses have a duty to know how children with ASD communicate and provide strategies to meet their communication needs. Purpose: The purpose of this critical review was to examine the literature for answers to the practice questions: How do children with ASD communicate? And, what strategies could a nurse implement to meet the communication needs of children with ASD? Results: …

Mitigating Depression In Intensive Care Unit (Icu) Patients: A Review Of The Literature, Heidi L. Wiertzema

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Background: Many patients who become critically ill spend an extended period of time in the intensive care unit (ICU). Oftentimes, patients experience depression as they navigate the healing process. Experiencing these symptoms may influence the road to recovery and life after critical illness. Purpose: The prevalence of symptoms of depression can range from 10 to 30% in ICU survivors (Myhren, Ekeberg, Tøien, Karlsson, & Stokland, 2010; Peris et al., 2011). Strategies to prevent and manage symptoms of depression are some of the current trends in critical care research. Therefore, a literature review of the interventions was conducted in order to …