Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Providing Safe Care For Mental Health Patients Through Ongoing Education Of Non-Psychiatric Nurses And Staff, Amy Kilpatrick

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Nurses care for many individuals with medical conditions, but also those who suffer from mental illness and are in an acute mental health crisis. Nonpsychiatric nurses often lack adequate knowledge and training while caring for individuals with mental health disorders and those in acute crisis, which can be a barrier to providing safe, effective care for this vulnerable population. When individuals are in crisis and present to the emergency departments, their first contact is with emergency room nurses who may lack the necessary skills to conduct a thorough assessment when evaluating for mental health disorders, including the presence of suicidal …

Heart Of An Athlete: Educating On The Importance Of Cardiovascular Screening Of High School Athletes, Tiffany Michelle Haley

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

There is a lack of education regarding cardiovascular screening and the incidence of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in high school athletes. The target population needing improved education is primarily school faculty, staff, trainers, and coaches. Effective cardiovascular screening and education will aid in the prevention of a catastrophic injury, including SCA and sudden cardiac death (SCD). Educating high school faculty and staff will bring forth awareness of signs and symptoms of SCA and aid in proper care and treatment for high school athletes who are at higher risk. The goal of this project was to educate faculty and staff on …

Teaching With Confidence: Strengthening Nurse Education On Heart Failure Using The Teach-Back Method, Melany Boyd

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Heart failure remains one of the leading causes of hospital readmissions, often due to poor patient understanding of self-care instructions provided at discharge. Nurses play a critical role in patient education, yet many lack confidence and competence in delivering effective education. Additionally, inconsistencies and discharge materials, such as outdated or excessive documentation, can overwhelm patients and hinder their ability to retain vital information. Standardized education enhances the learning experience and ensures consistent messaging across the healthcare system. This project aimed to improve nurses’ confidence and competence in educating heart failure patients at discharge by 10% through the implementation of the …

Recognizing Adult Male Mental Health Needs: An Intervention Looking At Education In Rural Communities, Eugene W. Winans Jr

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

This DNP Project examined the role of student nurses and their confidence levels when assisting adult male patients experiencing a mental health crisis. The majority of suicide acts are attributed to men. Thus, this subject requires specific insight and instructions when it comes to proper ways to assist these patients. Incorporating evidence from a pre-test and post-test survey, this project demonstrates that student nurses lack confidence in how to deal with men who are experiencing a mental health crisis. The analysis gained from this project demonstrates the important role nurses play in recognizing, speaking to, and assisting in the treatment …

Preserving Memories, Building Relationships, Jamie H. Cochran

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Loneliness among adults aged 65 and older is a significant health concern linked to negative physical and mental outcomes, especially in rural communities. This DNP project implemented a 4-week scrapbooking intervention within a faith-based rural community in North Carolina to reduce feelings of loneliness. Guided by Watson’s Theory of Human Caring, participants engaged in collaborative arts activities designed to foster social connection and emotional expression. The potential results of this project are multifaceted, including improved social engagement, emotional well-being, and strengthened community bonds. The findings support integrating creative, relationship-centered strategies into community nursing practice to enhance well-being among older adults.

Enhancing Health Literacy Using Video Education And The Teach-Back Method For Hypertension And Diabetes Mellitus Type 2, Shelly-Ann M. Malcolm-Padilla

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Diabetes type 2 and hypertension are chronic illnesses that have both physical and psychological impacts on an individual. Primary care providers play an important role in the management of chronic illness, specifically type 2 diabetes and hypertension. Changing behavior with a commitment to compliance with the treatment plan and living a healthy lifestyle can decrease disease complications for both diabetes and hypertension. With the use of educational videos and the teach-back method to confirm understanding of disease management, the goal of this quality improvement project was to contribute to positive health and lifestyle change for patients, their caregivers, clinical staff, …

Exploring Law Enforcement Officers' Experiences With Athletic Trainers And Work-Related Injury, Stephanie H. Clines, Rubie Gaudette, Amanda Wheeler, Jennifer Ostrowsk

Athletic Training Faculty Publications

Law enforcement is an emerging clinical setting for athletic trainers (ATs), yet little is known regarding law enforcement officers (LEOs) perceptions of the profession. This qualitative study following a general inductive approach explored LEOs' experiences with musculoskeletal injury and their interactions with ATs. Seven officers (N = 7) participated in one-on-one semi-structured interviews. Three themes emerged: (1) roles and responsibilities of ATs, (2) education and training, and (3) impact of injury on LEOs. While participants viewed ATs positively, they demonstrated limited understanding of the profession's scope and expertise. Participants commonly described managing musculoskeletal injuries on their own due to …

Adolescents Sexual Health Education Disparities: A Comparative Study Of Inclusion, Cultural Barriers, Access, Policy In Relation To Health And Long Term Outcomes​, Sofia Vega

Nursing | Student Research Posters

Currently, across the different states, sexual health education varies in a range of comprehensive sexual health education to limited sexual health education. These differences in curriculum are not only different from each other but also within themselves. This creates disparities in the knowledge and access among adolescents within their sexual health, which then creates a range of complications involving confidence in knowledge, pregnancy, STIs, and overall inclusion. When granting access to contraceptives on an educational campus, along with education on contraceptives, it allows students to access these tools in a safe environment and increases usage of condoms, lowering the risk …

Prepared To Protect: Improving Cardiac Emergency Response Through Education And Action Planning In Youth Club Sports, Melissa Garcia

Nursing | Senior Theses

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is the leading cause of death in youth sports, illuminating the essential demand for adequate emergency response, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), automated external defibrillator (AED) usage, and comprehensive emergency action plans (EAPs). Research shows that despite the importance of prompt intervention, the majority of youth club sports programs outside of the school setting lack the training and resources needed to respond effectively to SCA incidents. This study will evaluate the effectiveness of an educational seminar that includes CPR/AED training and EAP simulation exercises in improving participants’ knowledge, skills, and confidence in managing cardiac emergencies. A quasi-experimental …

Enhancing Advocacy Through Nursing Interventions For Hospitalized Pediatric Oncology Patients With Absent Parents, Ma Seandee Mae Corrales

Nursing | Senior Theses

Parental advocacy is essential for high-quality, patient-centered care, particularly in pediatric oncology settings. However, when parents are infrequently present due to responsibilities such as work or caring for other children, pediatric patients may experience advocacy gaps, leading to delays in treatment, miscommunication, and unmet needs. Nurses are uniquely positioned to help address this need, but limited research exists on how nursing policies and educational interventions can enhance nurse-led advocacy in such situations. This research proposal assesses the effectiveness of structured nursing policies and educational programs designed to support nurse-led advocacy for pediatric oncology patients with infrequently present or absent parents. …

The Power Of Plate & Knowledge: Nutrition’S Role In Pcos Management For Asian American Women, Cassandra Curameng Diego Curameng

Nursing | Senior Theses

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common metabolic endocrine condition with symptoms that severely impair women's physical and reproductive health. However, individuals with PCOS, especially Asian American women, lack sufficient understanding of non-pharmacological symptom management options, such as dietary and lifestyle modifications. This research proposal explores whether culturally appropriate nutrition education can help manage PCOS symptoms and lessen the need for medical management. The literature critique focuses on addressing the knowledge gap regarding treatment management among women diagnosed with PCOS, health risks related to PCOS, ethnic differences, and nutrition. This proposal investigates the impact of a dietary education program tailored …

Reducing Anxiety And Burden: The Effect Of Caregiver Education In Hospice Care For Immigrant Families, Nicole Maria

Nursing | Senior Theses

Purpose

The purpose of this research proposal is to explore the impact of early mental health screenings, comprehensive education, and support in alleviating caregiver burden and anxiety among hospice immigrant family caregivers.

Methods

This research proposal will evaluate the effectiveness of caregiver education and mental health screenings. Baseline data will be collected using the Zarit Burden Scale and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). After interventions are implemented, a post survey will be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness.

Results

If the findings are statistically significant, they will support the hypothesis that caregiver education can reduce burden, improve caregivers’ mental well-being, and …

Awareness Of The Physiological Changes Occurring In Older Adults Can Reduce Dehydration And Electrolyte Imbalances, Lisa Isley

Nursing | Senior Theses

Background: Individuals over 65 years are at an increased risk of dehydration. The physiological changes that occur with age and medication consumption can cause fluid and electrolyte imbalances that can physically and mentally impair individuals over 65 years old. Objective: By providing education to individuals 65 years and older regarding the significance of drinking water and consuming electrolytes daily, older adults can reduce their dehydration symptoms and improve their quality of life. Method: The proposed research is a quasi experimental study geared towards individuals 65 years and older. The quasi-experimental study will include two pre-surveys and then two post-surveys. The …

Effects Of Educational Intervention On Asthmatic Children, Zoe Coggins

Nursing | Senior Theses

Abstract

Children are more vulnerable to asthmatic symptoms due to the physiological immaturity of their respiratory systems. Therefore, irritants are deemed more hazardous for the pediatric population. Pollution is a growing health concern, and within the literature review, several approaches to the measurement of the impact of low air quality and educational interventions are discussed. The themes identified in the literature review are increased risk of pollution-induced exacerbation due to age, behavior, and residential proximity to emission-producing facilities. The review of the literature demonstrated how pollution is a growing public health concern, especially among the pediatric population. Interventions, reviewed in …

Psychosocial Factors Affecting Quality Of Life In Kidney Transplant Recipients, Lawrence Panlilio

Nursing | Senior Theses

Background: Kidney transplantation is the best solution to save lives for those that have end-stage renal disease. However, psychosocial issues play a huge role in their quality of life after the procedure which can affect these individuals negatively. These issues recipients face include depression and anxiety, a lack of social support, and self management difficulties. Objective: This research consists of investigating psychosocial factors that affect kidney transplant recipients’ quality of life. Evidenced by research, focused assistance with ongoing support in patients is essential after receiving surgery and recovery. A literature review was conducted that consists of research on studies with …

Swosu Research And Scholarly Activity Fair 2025, Swosu Office Of Sponsored Programs

SWOSU Research and Scholarly Activity Fair Programs

On behalf of the members of the University Research and Scholarly Activity Committee (USRAC) and the Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) — welcome to the Thirty-Third SWOSU Research and Scholarly Activity Fair!

This year’s event features 99 poster presentations and 9 oral presentations, showcasing the work of over 170 student and faculty researchers, writers, presenters, artists, collaborators, and faculty sponsors. These presentations represent a wide array of scholarly and academic activity from across SWOSU’s academic community, including the Departments of Art, Communication, and Theatre; Allied Health Sciences; Biological Sciences; Business; Chemistry & …

2025 Apothecary, Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Apothecary

It is with great honor that we present the 2025 Apothecary issue. This year’s Apothecary was made possible by generous financial contributions from many stores, businesses, and Southwestern College of Pharmacy alumni. We greatly appreciate and thank you for your continued support.

Mistrust Among Injured Immigrant Workers: A Conceptual Framework, Maude Arsenault, Daniel Côté, Jessica Dubé

Revues de littérature, synthèses de connaissances

Background

In Quebec, injured workers have access to medical assistance, wage replacement indemnities, and rehabilitation measures, with most injuries resolved easily. However, a small percentage of cases require a lengthy rehabilitation process, which is particularly complex when involving immigrants. The therapeutic alliance is at the heart of the process, involving mutual trust and confidence and a degree of consensus about the therapeutic interventions to be used and, ultimately, the return to work.

Objective

This article delves into the concept of mistrust as more than the absence of trust, and sheds light on its role in the rehabilitation process of immigrant …

Folliculin (Flcn) In Thyroid Tumors: Incidence, Significance, And Role As A Driver Gene And Secondary Alteration, Faisal Hassan, Camryn Slone, Robert J. Mcdonald, Julie C. Dueber, Adeel M. Ashraf, Melina Windon, Oliver J. Fackelmayer, Cortney Y. Lee, Therese J. Bocklage, Derek B. Allison

Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Faculty Publications

Thyroid carcinomas are driven by diverse molecular alterations, but the tumor suppressor gene folliculin (FLCN), best known for its role in Birt–Hogg–Dubé (BHD) syndrome, has received limited attention in thyroid tumors. Here, we describe two thyroid tumors with pathogenic FLCN alterations—one germline and one somatic—and analyze the broader prevalence and significance of FLCN in thyroid carcinomas using multiple large sequencing datasets, including ORIEN-AVATAR. Patient 1, with a germline FLCN mutation and a history of BHD syndrome, presented with a well-circumscribed oncocytic adenoma. Molecular testing confirmed biallelic FLCN inactivation, but no additional mutations or aggressive features were observed, and the patient …

Peak Teaching: Exploring And Fostering Sacred Experiences In University Classrooms, Charles Burack

International Journal of Transpersonal Studies

Supporting the spiritual growth of college and university students with diverse backgrounds and orientations is both important and challenging. It is important not only because spirituality is a crucial dimension of human life but also because the majority of students at both private and public schools want their teachers to address spiritual issues in the classroom. A powerful way to address spirituality is to explore and foster sacred experiences in university classrooms. Sacred experiences include religious, spiritual, mystical, transcendent, numinous, and peak experiences as well as many other nonordinary experiences. The author offers guidance to educators on how to: 1) …

Distinguishing Narcolepsy Hallucinations From Drug-Induced Hallucinations In An Adolescent With Comorbidities, Avidor Gerstenfeld, Biwy Emmanuella Cadet, Salma Alkhatib, Annette Santiago

East Florida Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Comparing Efficacy Of Psychotropic Classes To Control Aggression Among Pediatric Patients Hospitalized With Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Orestes Hadjistamoulou, Sindhura Kompella, Melissa Ricardo, Samuel Neuhut

East Florida Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Malignant Adenomyoepithelioma Of The Breast, Cole Daisley, Susana Ferra

East Florida Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Life Over Limb: A Case Of Rapidly Rrogressive Necrotizing Fasciitis, Olesya A. Balashova, Adam Lerchenfeld, Rahul Ramakrishnan, Ashley Diaz, Anna Felizcek, Daniel Heller

East Florida Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Platypnea-Orthodeoxia Syndrome In A Case Of Septal Occlusion Device Migration, Bike Ozkan, Richard Shalmiyev, Adam Devine, Michael Pelekhach, Siddarth Kathuria, Daniel Heller, Mauricio Danckers

East Florida Division GME Research Day 2025

Introduction

Platypnea-orthodeoxia syndrome (POS) is defined by dyspnea and hypoxemia in the upright position, which improves upon recumbency. While often linked with hepatopulmonary syndrome, intracardiac etiologies, particularly a patent foramen ovale (PFO), may also be responsible. PFOs are typically managed with device closure, and while rare, device migration can occur unbeknownst to the patient with resultant critical sequelae.

Methods

Here, we present the case of an 89-year-old female with a medical history of hypertension, diabetes, and coronary artery disease status post PCI, who arrived with severe dyspnea and was subsequently intubated for profound hypoxia. A chest CT angiogram ruled out …

Mesonephric-Like Carcinoma Of The Endometrium In A 73-Year-Old Female, Cameron Summers-Powell, Carina Ferraris, Zoyla Almeida, Susana Ferra, Mirza Baig

East Florida Division GME Research Day 2025

Introduction: Mesonephric-like carcinoma (MLC) is a newly described malignant tumor that represents 1% of endometrial cancers. The etiology of this disease is currently unknown but immunohistochemical expression with GATA-3, PAX-8 and TTF-1 and lack of ER/PR positivity can aid in correct diagnosis.

Case Summary: A 73-year-old female presented to the hospital with post-menopausal bleeding, an initial hysteroscopy identified a lesion suggestive of endometrial cancer. Ultimately, the patient underwent a hysterectomy and a bilateral salpingectomy/oophorectomy. Chemotherapy ensued due to metastatic disease. At 7 months post-op, the patient appeared to be doing well.

Results: Grossly, the lesion was 5.5 cm and appeared …

Carcinoma With Osteoclast-Like Giant Cells: A Rare Histologic Variant Of Breast Cancer, Robert Bender, Makenna Bowman, Matthew Lee, Susana Ferra

East Florida Division GME Research Day 2025

Introduction: Osteoclast like giant cells (OGCs) can be found in various tissues such as the gallbladder, liver, pancreas, and thyroid. In breast cancer, the presence of OGCs is a rare finding. Currently knowledge of such cases is limited, with approximately 200 reported cases of osteoclast like giant cells (OGCs) among all breast carcinomas. Among the breast cancers that are classified as rare, those with OGCs make up only 0.5-1.2% of cases.

Case Description: An 80+ year-old female presented with a palpable left breast lesion initially suspected by mammography as a benign lesion. She eventually underwent breast core biopsy revealing hormone …

Oil And Air Don’T Mix: Vitamin E Acetate In Evali, Angelo Lopez-Lacayo, Jordan Taylor-Bentley, Josef Masseli, Michelle Silva, Christy Diaz, Daniel Zapata

East Florida Division GME Research Day 2025

Introduction: Electronic cigarette or vaping-associated lung injury (EVALI) is an acute or subacute condition characterized by acute respiratory symptoms and bilateral pulmonary infiltrates seen in patients who are exposed to electronic cigarettes or vapes. The condition has been strongly linked to inhalation of aerosolized vitamin E acetate, particularly in THC-containing e-cigarette products. Despite regulation of vitamin E acetate in the production of electronic vapes, it continues to be a byproduct of EVALI due to counterfeit electronic vapes. Clinically, patients with EVALI present in various ways but are not limited to fever, shortness of breath, cough, chills, body aches, pleuritic chest …

Advantages Of Humeral Stem Retention In Revision Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Retrospective Study, Matthew Mccrosson, Leon Liu, Daniel Deshetler, John Grossi, Devin John, Diego Lima, Howard Routman

East Florida Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Lactate/Albumin And Rdw/Albumin Ratios For Mortality And Readmission In Post-Mi Heart Failure, Amogh Killedar, Hamza Khan, Henry Cusnir

East Florida Division GME Research Day 2025

BACKGROUND Robust biomarkers that capture the combined effects of inflammation and tissue hypoperfusion, are needed to refine post–acute myocardial infarction (AMI) risk stratification—especially in the large subset that develops congestive heart failure (CHF). Two emerging candidates are the lactate/albumin ratio (LAR) and the red-cell-distribution-width/albumin ratio (RAR). Separate studies have linked each ratio to short- and long-term mortality in critical illness, AMI, and heart failure, yet no work has directly compared their performance together. We addressed this evidence gap in a large, multi-hospital dataset.

METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of 8 115 encounters drawn from the HCA Healthcare database (2016-2024). …