Nursing Commons^™

Attitudes And Expectations Towards Acupuncture For Primary Dysmenorrhoea: Findings From A Cross-Sectional Survey In Australia, Weiting Liu, Amanda Towell-Barnard, Khui Hung Lee, Timothy Leen Kang

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Objective: To describe attitudes towards acupuncture and expectations regarding potential treatment outcomes among women with self-reported primary dysmenorrhoea (PD) residing in Australia. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive online survey was conducted to assess attitudes and treatment expectancy using an adapted version of previously published complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) attitude scale and a validated acupuncture expectancy scale (AES). Data were analysed descriptively, with exploratory analysis conducted to support the interpretation of response patterns. Ethical approval was obtained from the Edith Cowan University Human Research Ethics Committee (2023-04471-LIU) and participants provided electronic informed consent. Results: A total of 247 responses were received. …

Research Priorities For Nursing And Allied Health: A Priority-Setting Project Using A Partnership Approach, Marina Weckend, Lucy Gent, Erin Godecke, Linda Coventry, Gemma Doleman, Amanda Towell-Barnard, Lisa Whitehead

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Research priorities guide research activities, funding and resources within health services. To ensure that research efforts are meaningful and impactful, it is vital that organisational research agendas reflect the priorities of both healthcare consumers and staff, alongside broader national and international research frameworks. This paper outlines a research priority-setting project conducted across two hospitals in Western Australia, aimed at identifying shared research priorities through a collaborative and inclusive approach. Aim: To identify the top ten nursing and allied health research priorities for two hospitals in Western Australia. Methods: A modified James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnership approach was used, …

Time To Hang Up The Gloves: A Scoping Review Of Evidence On Non-Sterile Glove Use During Intravenous Antimicrobial Preparation And Administration, Natasya Raja Azlan, Debbie Massey, Lesley Andrew, Amanda Towell-Barnard, Seng Giap Marcus Ang, Carol Crevacore, Martina Costello, Aaron Alejandro, Weiting Liu, Naila Zaman, Peta Anne Zimmerman

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Aims: To systematically summarise evidence related to the use of non-sterile gloves when preparing and administering intravenous antimicrobials. Design: Scoping review. Methods: A rigorous scoping review was undertaken following Arksey and O'Malley's (2005) framework and the modified Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses extension for scoping review guidelines (2018). Five databases and grey literature were included in the search. Literature published between 2009 and 2024 was included. Data Sources: Five databases (Medline, CINAHL, EMBASE, Scopus and Web of Science) and the grey literature were searched in February 2024. Results: Three studies were included; however, none directly addressed correct …

Bridging Idealism And Reality: Nursing Students’ Perceptions About The Impact On Their Wellbeing From Being A Nurse: A Qualitative Study, Louise M. Allen, Karen Missen, Simon J, Cooper

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Nursing students often enter undergraduate nursing programs with idealistic perceptions of how nursing can impact personal wellbeing. The gap between expectations and clinical realities may hinder progress and contribute to attrition. Aim: To explore nursing students' perceptions of how the nursing profession impacts a nurse's wellbeing. Methods: This descriptive qualitative study, informed by Transformational Learning Theory, involved semi-structured online interviews with 23 nursing students from three Australian universities. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed. Results: Students began the program with idealistic views about the physical, emotional and social impacts of nursing. Clinical placements played a key role in …

Paternal Age Is Associated With Offspring Bone Health—But Not Soft Tissue Composition Or Fracture: The Vitamin D In Pregnancy Study, Mia A. Percival, Kara B. Anderson, Julie A. Pasco, Marc Sim, Sarah M. Hosking, John D. Wark, Natalie K. Hyde

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Summary: Emerging evidence suggests that paternal health may be associated with offspring later life heath. In this study, advanced paternal age at childbirth was associated with poorer offspring bone mineral density and content at age 11 years. These findings suggest that paternal age may impact childhood musculoskeletal development, warranting further investigation. Introduction: Maternal health during pregnancy is known to impact offspring’s later life health. However, emerging evidence suggests that paternal factors may also be important. Advanced paternal age is associated with poorer offspring outcomes, yet few studies assess musculoskeletal outcomes. This study investigated the association between paternal age at childbirth …

The Effectiveness Of Virtual Reality Aggression And Violence De-Escalation Training For Nursing And Midwifery Students: A Quasi-Experimental Study, Joshua Johnson, Brennen Mills, Luke Hopper, Sara Hansen, Kelley Mumford, Renju Joseph, Susan Philip, Gina Kruger, Abdi D. Osman

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Nursing students experience substantial exposure to aggression and violence while attending clinical placement. De-escalation training can effectively prepare students for aggressive encounters, yet is resource-intensive to deliver. Immersive virtual reality (VR) may improve training accessibility for nursing students. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of a VR de-escalation training program to improve nursing students’ confidence in managing patient aggression and its perceived usability. Methods: This study utilized a single-group quasi-experimental pre-/post-test design. Undergraduate Australian nursing students (n = 221) completed a VR de-escalation training program, providing pre-/postintervention self-reported confidence in coping with patient aggression, system usability, and motion sickness data. …

Sustainable Healthcare In Action: Six Practice Changes That Make A Difference, Christine Catling, Carol Crevacore, Melisa Young, Wayne Varndell, Jack Cornish, Sue Sheppard-Law, Elaine Correia Moll

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Problem: Planetary health, linking the well-being of human populations with the stability of Earth's natural systems, is increasingly recognised as essential for all organisations. Healthcare is a major contributor to environmental harm, responsible for an estimated 4.4% of global net emissions. As a result, healthcare workers have an important role in driving sustainable, low-waste practices within clinical settings. Aim: This paper outlines six practical, evidence-informed changes that can be introduced within healthcare organisations: adopting reusable tourniquets, reducing unnecessary glove use, recycling medication blister packs, promoting reusable nappies, using reusable or compostable blueys, and reintroducing stainless steel holloware. Discussion: These examples …

Scope Of Nursing Work And Models Of Service Delivery In Australian Primary And Secondary Schools: A Scoping Review, Anita Moyes, Chelsey Williams, Elizabeth Rankin, Imelda Hoodcamp, Eliza Jane Potter, Brent A. Hayward

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Aim: To map the scope of nursing work and models of service delivery in Australian primary and secondary schools for children aged 3–18 years. Design: Scoping Review. Data Sources: A search of CINAHL, Medline, PsycINFO, ERIC, Informit and Google was conducted in August 2024 for peer reviewed, non-peer reviewed and grey literature giving insight into nursing work in primary and secondary Australian schools in urban, regional and remote areas of all Australian states and territories. Methods: The review employed Johanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews and reported the findings in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews …

Trends And Indications For Cesarean Section In The Origins Birth Cohort, Kristjana Einarsdottir, Lisa Gibson, Sarah Whalan, Jacqueline Davis, Laurence Amy Payette, Ravisha Srinivasjois, Desiree T. Silva

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Objective: Cesarean section (CS) rates have increased substantially in Australia, with particularly high use observed in private maternity care and for pre-labor CS. The aim of the present study was to describe the CS rates and the clinical indications for pre-labor CS in the ORIGINS birth cohort.

Methods: This study analyzed data from the ORIGINS birth cohort, a large birth cohort in Western Australia, including 9473 births occurring at Joondalup Health Campus between 2016 and 2024. Rates of CS and pre-labor CS were compared across study periods (2016–2020 and 2021–2024) and by facility type (public vs. private). Indications for pre-labor …

Feasibility Of A Clinical Supervision Training Program For Mental Health Nurses: A Mixed-Methods Study, Jennifer Hamilton, Lesley Barr, Marie Boulianne, Irene Ngune, Julie Sharrock, Debbie Massey

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Clinical supervision is widely recognised as a valuable method of workplace support and professional development. Effective supervision requires clinical supervisors to be trained on theory and practice. Oftentimes, training is interdisciplinary and may not address discipline-specific needs. Aim: This study evaluated the implementation of a clinical supervision training program developed specifically for mental health nurses and informed by community and consumer involvement. Methods: A convergent parallel mixed-method design was used. A purposeful sample of 18 mental health nurses who completed the training program participated. Data collection included the Acceptability, Feasibility, Appropriateness Scale and open-ended qualitative survey responses. Quantitative data …

Joint Cancer Nurses Society Of Australia–Clinical Oncology Society Of Australia Position Statement On The Contribution Of Nurses To Cancer Survivorship Care In Australia, Raymond J. Chan, Gemma Mcerlean, Fiona Crawford-Williams, Carla Thamm, Carmel O'Kane, Nicolas H. Hart, Gillian Blanchard, Anne Mellon, Justin Hargreaves, Mei Krishnasamy, Michael Jefford

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Aim: To describe the development, consultation, and endorsement process for a joint position statement from the Cancer Nurses Society of Australia (CNSA) and the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA) regarding the contribution of nurses to cancer survivorship care in Australia. Methods: A development team of nursing and oncology experts (n = 11) was convened in September 2025. The draft position statement was informed by key literature, including the COSA Model of Survivorship Care, Australian Cancer Plan, a modified Delphi study defining nurse capabilities in survivorship care, and an overview of systematic reviews on nurse-led care models. A consultation survey …

Beyond Coding: Balancing Interpretive Depth And Rigour In Ethnographic Data Analysis, Thi Ngoc Minh Nguyen, Gordana Dermody, Rosemary Saunders, Lisa Whitehead

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Aim: To present a refined approach to analysing ethnographic data that preserves the distinctiveness of ethnography while ensuring it meets contemporary expectations of methodological rigour.

Design: Methodological discussion paper.

Data Sources: The approach draws on established ethnographic scholarship and is guided by Wolcott's framework for transforming qualitative data through three interrelated stages: description, analysis and interpretation. A practical application is illustrated through a focused ethnography exploring how older Vietnam-born Australians understand and manage chronic disease.

Implications for Nursing Practice: Focused ethnography has become increasingly popular in nursing research as it reflects the dual nature of the profession: striving to generate …

Attitudes Toward Dementia Among Nursing Students: A Cross-Sectional Study, Ngoc Ha Vo Thi, Thuy Nga Tran Thi, Ngoc Sen Hoang Thi

Health Professions Education

Purpose: Dementia is the loss of cognitive function, including thinking, memory, and communication, due to brain disorders. The global prevalence of dementia is increasing, affecting younger populations. Caring for individuals with dementia requires preparedness to manage behavioral and psychological symptoms. As future healthcare providers, nursing students are expected to have the necessary knowledge and attitudes to support dementia patients. To describe nursing students' attitudes toward dementia and explore related factors.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 520 nursing students at Da Nang University of Medical Technology and Pharmacy. A structured questionnaire assessed demographic characteristics, academic information, knowledge, and attitudes …

Effects Of Educational Programs On Reducing Sexually Transmitted Infection Rates, Phierica D. Gardin

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain a significant public health concern in the United States, with increasing rates reported in many states, including North Carolina. Limited sexual health education, stigma surrounding sexual health discussions, and lack of awareness regarding prevention and screening contribute to ongoing transmission, delayed diagnosis, and potential long-term complications associated with untreated STIs. The purpose of this Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project was to implement a sexual health education program aimed at increasing knowledge of STI transmission, prevention strategies, and the importance of screening among adults aged 18 years and older. Two educational sessions were completed within …

Recruitment Agency-Mediated Onboarding, Acculturation, And Contract Completion Among Internationally Educated Nurses In The United States: A Questionnaire Survey, Jasper Erwin Tolarba, Jennifer Orbeso, Reynaldo R. Rivera

Nursing Faculty Publications

Background

Internationally educated nurses play a vital role in addressing global nursing workforce shortages and supporting healthcare systems across many high-income countries. As international nurse migration continues to increase worldwide, effective transition, onboarding, and acculturation practices have become important determinants of workforce integration and retention. In the United States, internationally educated nurses comprise a growing segment of the nursing workforce; however, variability in onboarding practices may affect successful integration and retention.

Aim

To examine recruitment agency–mediated onboarding and acculturation practices and their association with contract completion among internationally educated nurses in the United States.

Design

Cross-sectional descriptive correlational study.

Methods …

A Multidisciplinary Transitional Care Bundle To Reduce Hospital Readmission In Patients With Heart Failure: A Quality Improvement Project, Pearl Zehua Stahler

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Scholarly Projects

Background: Heart failure (HF) is associated with substantial morbidity, mortality, healthcare utilization, and risk of unplanned hospital readmission. Gaps in structured discharge planning and post-discharge follow-up may contribute to preventable readmissions. Purpose: This quality improvement (QI) project aimed to implement a multidisciplinary transitional care bundle to strengthen care coordination, improve the post-discharge pathway, and reduce unplanned heart failure hospital readmissions (UHFHR). Methods: The project included 20 adults hospitalized with HF in a 56-bed telemetry unit in a South Texas acute care hospital. The eight-week intervention included social determinants of health (SDoH) assessment, nursing-led discharge education, HF clinic follow-up within 14 …

Clinical Challenges Associated With Enhancing Hypertension Among The Underserved African American Population, Ashley Richardson

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Scholarly Projects

Background 

African Americans face a significantly higher prevalence of hypertension, tend to develop complications at younger ages, and have disproportionately higher mortality rates. Key social determinants of health (SDoH)—including food deserts, unequal access to healthcare, and geographic disparities in healthcare resources—contribute to these ongoing inequities. Addressing both systemic and individual barriers is crucial for effective hypertension management.

Objective

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of a culturally relevant, community-based intervention designed to reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure among Black adults with uncontrolled hypertension.

Methods 

Quality improvement (QI) initiatives typically employ multicomponent, equity-focused models. The primary components of …

Correlates Of Recovery Capital Among Women In Jails: Leveraging A Dimensional Recovery Framework, Amanda Fallin-Bennett, Martha Tillson, Jaxin Annett, Hartley Feld, Michele Staton

Nursing Faculty Publications

Background: Recovery capital encompasses internal and external factors that support recovery from substance use disorder, such as employment, social support, and physical and mental health. There is a need for more research on recovery capital among women who are incarcerated, who often face complex barriers to recovery, such as poverty, unemployment, and histories of trauma.

Methods: Women (N ¼ 900) were recruited from Kentucky jails as part of the broader NIDA-funded Kentucky Justice Community Opioid Innovation Network (JCOIN) cooperative project. Measures from baseline interviews (during incarceration) were selected in alignment with the Substance Abuse Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA)’s four …

“Being Treated As The Expert:” A Blueprint For A Community Advisory Board Approach To Elevate The Voice Of People With Living Experience With Substance Use In Academic Research, Trevor Moffitt, Survivors Union Of The Bluegrass, Bryson Henson, April M. Young, Sharon L. Walsh, Rachel Vickers-Smith, Junior Cruz, Jeremy Byard, Brook West, Amanda Fallin-Bennett

Nursing Faculty Publications

Introduction: Researchers have traditionally engaged Community Advisory Boards (CABs) to meaningfully involve community members in the research process. However, CABs are often formed only after a grant is funded, leading to criticisms of functioning merely as “ethical approvers.” For substance use researchers, the inclusion of people with living experience (PWLE; current experience with drug use) across all stages of research is especially important as they have historically been the experts in the needs of their community.   Methods: In response to this need for community engagement in research, the University of Kentucky, in partnership with a local recovery community center (RCC; …

Coalition Building And Citizen Science For Radon Risk Reduction, Stacy Stanifer, Kathy Rademacher, Whitney Sedio, Naomi Cheek, David Gross, Caitlyn Curtis, Amanda Thaxton-Wiggins, Mary Kay Rayens, Ellen J. Hahn

Nursing Faculty Publications

We evaluated the implementation of local coalitions led in partnership with citizen scientists, community-based organizations, and public libraries in four rural communities to lower exposure to radon in the home. The objectives were to (1) describe the Reach-Effectiveness-Adoption-Implementation-Maintenance (RE-AIM) of four radon coalitions, and (2) compare RE-AIM factors among citizen scientists who participated in the coalitions and those who did not. A larger community-engaged research project embedded coalition building using a citizen science approach. Three of the four coalitions focused on health and wellness more broadly (18–34 members); one focused solely on radon (10 members). Coalition membership and activities varied …

Evaluation Of A Tobacco Treatment Specialist Training Program Targeted To Behavioral Health Professionals, Chizimuzo T. C. Okoli, Sarret Seng, Bassema Abu Farsakh, Emily Koyagi, Heather Beck, Audrey Darville

Nursing Faculty Publications

Tobacco use remains disproportionately high among adults living with mental illnesses (MIs), contributing to excess morbidity and mortality, particularly in high-burden states such as Kentucky. Behavioral healthcare providers are well-positioned to address this disparity but often lack formal training in evidence-based tobacco treatment. Tobacco Treatment Specialist (TTS) training provides healthcare providers with skills to deliver evidence-based tobacco treatment; however, traditional TTS training models often rely on synchronous, in-person or live virtual formats, which may limit accessibility for some healthcare workforces. Asynchronous, web-based delivery models may reduce these barriers. This study evaluates a targeted, asynchronous TTS training program designed for providers …

Preventing G-J Tube Dislodgement - A Device And Communication Innovation, Sarah Clark

2026

Abstract

The Problem: G/J tube dislodgement is a frequent complication in pediatric patients.

Leads to:

• Emergency department visits
• Hospital admissions
• Delays in nutrition/medication

Impact on Patients & Families:

• IV placement (traumatic)
• Radiation exposure
• Overnight hospital stays

Impact on Nurses & System:

• Increased workload (admissions, coordination)
• Occupied inpatient beds for stable patients
• Inefficient care processes

Aims/Objectives Aim: Reduce unplanned G/J tube dislodgements and related hospital utilization.

Objectives: Develop a breakaway connector prototype

Implementation and Evaluation:
Setting: Pediatric inpatient & outpatient system
Participants: Nurses (bedside, GI, IR), caregiver, innovation team
Process: Roundtable discussions → identified workflow gaps Communication/workflow audit Developed …

Supporting Clinical Readiness And Well-Being In New Graduate Nurses: A Scoping Review, Angela Cyr Msn, Rn, Rnc-Nic, Npd, Bc

MaineHealth Maine Medical Center

Objectives: To map and synthesize current evidence on orientation strategies that integrate clinical and psychosocial support for newly licensed nurses, with a focus on first-year retention outcomes.

Competency Campfire Stories: S'Mores & Skills, Competency & Curriculum, Sparks & Social Media, Emily Bovino Msn, Rn, Cnl, Ccrn, Michael Defrancisco Msn, Rn, Britney Meunier Msn, Rn, Ccrn, Amy Stafford Dnp, Aprn, Ccns, Kristen Stogsdill Bsn, Rn, Ccrn

MaineHealth Maine Medical Center

Learning Objectives

• Identify strategies to foster connections and build confidence among new nurses by creating a supportive, interactive learning environment.

• Describe how to design and facilitate the Camp Competency onboarding experience to engage new nurses through interactive learning.

• Incorporate social media tools to enhance learner interaction and community-building.

Evolving Practices From Fasting To Non-Fasting Before Cardiac Catheterization: A Scoping Review, Sungjun Park Bsn, Cvbc, Cmsrn, Rn, Kristiina Hyrkas Phd, Licnsc, Mnsc, Rn

MaineHealth Maine Medical Center

NPO before cardiac catheterization may overstate aspiration risk: evidence supports allowing clear liquids before catheterization.

From Evidence To Action: Optimizing Ards Care In The Icu, Amy Stafford Dnp, Aprn, Ccns

MaineHealth Maine Medical Center

Objectives

• Define ARDS using historical and current diagnostic criteria

• Explain the pathophysiology of ARDS and its impact on lung mechanics, including compliance, driving pressure, and recruitable lung

• Recognize limitations of common monitoring tools, including pulse oximetry, and incorporate this into clinical decision-making

• Apply evidence-based management strategies for ARDS, including lung protective ventilation, PEEP optimization, proning, and adjunctive therapies

• Analyze clinical case scenarios to make decisions related to ventilator management, oxygenation strategies, and escalation of care

Changing Culture Through Shared Passion: How We Found Our Identity In The Medical Icu, Lorrie Sluti Bsn, Rn, Ccrn, Alison Griffin Bsn, Rn, Ccrn, Megan Massey Bsn, Rn

MaineHealth Maine Medical Center

The purpose is to examine the cultural transformation of a Medical Intensive Care Unit after the COVID-19 pandemic; highlighting how the development of a Unit-Based Practice Council restored unit identity, nursing job satisfaction, and improved patient outcomes.

Clinical Outcomes Of A Multidisciplinary Pediatric Program For People With Type 1 Diabetes Experiencing Elevated A1c And Frequent Admissions, Shelley Watts, Katherine Doyle, Blanca Cruzescalante, Caitlin Dinh, Pamela Rodgers, Perrin White, Abha Choudhary

2026

No abstract provided.

Preventing G/J Tube Dislodgement: A Device And Communication Innovation, Sarah Clark

2026

The Problem
G/J tube dislodgement is a frequent complication in pediatric patients
Leads to:

• Emergency department visits
• Hospital admissions
• Delays in nutrition/medication

Impact on Patients & Families:

• IV placement (traumatic)
• Radiation exposure
• Overnight hospital stays

Impact on Nurses & System:

• Increased workload (admissions, coordination)
• Occupied inpatient beds for stable patients
• Inefficient care processes

Aims/Objectives
Aim: Reduce unplanned G/J tube dislodgements and related hospital utilization.
Objectives: Develop a breakaway connector prototype

Implementation and Evaluation
Setting: Pediatric inpatient & outpatient system
Participants: Nurses (bedside, GI, IR), caregiver, innovation team
Process:
Roundtable discussions → identified workflow gaps
Communication/workflow audit
Developed device …

Quadriceps And Ankle Weakness In Inclusion Body Myositis: Impact On Descending Balance Control And Rehabilitation Strategies - A Systematic Review, Woohyoung Jeon, Ashley Dalby, Melinda Hermanns, Manuel Lubinus

Nursing Faculty Publications and Presentations

Background

Inclusion Body Myositis (IBM), a progressive neuromuscular disorder, is characterized by quadriceps and ankle muscle weakness, leading to impaired balance control and increased fall risk during functional activities. Existing research highlights inconsistent evidence on fall risk reduction and a lack of standardized rehabilitation protocols, creating gaps in effective management. This systematic review aims to synthesize evidence on the impact of muscle weakness on balance and fall risk and evaluate rehabilitation strategies, including task-specific interventions, to improve functional outcomes in IBM patients.

Methods

Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library from inception …