Uncovering The Path To Diagnosis Among Adults With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Constructivist Grounded Theory Mini-Study, Jeffrey D. Whitaker, Rick Zoucha, Melissa Kalarchian

Graduate Student Research Symposium

Abstract

Background: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often persists into adulthood, yet many adults are first diagnosed only after years of functional strain, compensation, and alternative explanations for their difficulties. Purpose: This study explored how adults first diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood described navigating the process of obtaining a formal diagnosis. Methods: A constructivist grounded theory mini-study was conducted with seven adults, ages 27 to 43, who reported receiving their first formal ADHD diagnosis at age 18 or later. Participants completed semi-structured Zoom interviews focused on early experiences, symptom interpretation, help-seeking, and formal assessment. Data were analyzed using initial, focused, and theoretical …

Treating Depression With L-Methylfolate: A Review Of Evidence, Marianna G. Pettit

Epsilon Sigma at-Large Research Conference

Abstract

Introduction & Background: Depressive disorders have many different causes. Folate deficiency can sometimes be behind these disorders, due to this vitamin’s role in neurotransmitter synthesis. Some research suggests that supplementing with an active form of folate improves depressive symptoms with and without antidepressant use. Purpose Statement Question: For individuals with depressive disorders, does supplementation with L-methylfolate (LMF) reduce symptoms of depressive disorders with or without use of an antidepressant? Literature Review: A manual literature search for sources published within the past 7 years revealed 557 documents from four different databases. Key search words included, “depression,” “treatment,” …

The Impact Of Social Interaction On Patient Well-Being With Transition Into Long-Term Care Settings: A Review Of Interventions For Improved Patient Outcomes, Helen Whitney Harmon

Epsilon Sigma at-Large Research Conference

Abstract

Purpose: When individual patients are transitioned from home or acute care settings to more long-term care environments such as skilled nursing units or assisted living facilities, the residents are at an increased risk of experiencing loneliness, which is linked to depression, anxiety, and increasing cognitive decline, and other detrimental outcomes.

Aims: Combinations of peer-reviewed qualitative and quantitative research studies were analyzed to determine what factors contributed to changes in patient well-being, mental health and overall quality of life during these transitions.

Methods: One article focusing on preventable healthcare transitions in patient population was able to link higher medical acuity …

Mindfulness-Based Therapy For The Treatment Of Anxiety In Adolescents, Alicia Lemaster

Epsilon Sigma at-Large Research Conference

Abstract

Adolescent anxiety disorders represent a significant and growing public health concern, with increasing prevalence and associated functional impairment. Traditional treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and pharmacologic interventions, are effective but often limited by barriers such as access, stigma, and adherence. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have emerged as a promising alternative or adjunctive approach to address anxiety symptoms in adolescents. The purpose of this literature review is to evaluate the effectiveness of structured mindfulness-based therapy programs in reducing anxiety symptoms among adolescents compared to usual care. A systematic literature search was conducted using databases including PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO, focusing …

Postpartum Psychosis Risk In Women With Bipolar Disorder, Rachel R. Lay

Epsilon Sigma at-Large Research Conference

Psychiatric relapse and postpartum psychosis pose vital psychological threats to women with bipolar disorder. The phase after delivery implies a great number of biological, psychological, and social alterations that might predispose to mood fluctuations and extreme psycho-psychiatric behavior. A systematic literature review assessed the recent literature on postpartum relapse risk, contributors, and maternal outcomes in women with bipolar disorder. Systematic search of three electronic databases, CINAHL, PubMed, and PsycINFO, revealed 168 studies dating back to 2022. Title and abstract screening of 124 articles was carried out after elimination of duplicates and other eligibility criteria. Eighteen articles were full-text reviewed, and …

Decreasing Wound Healing Times By Decreasing Stress Levels, Bayleigh S. Kraus, Colson Burnett, Kelsey Spann

Scholars Week

The relationship between stress levels and delayed wound healing needs to be further investigated, particularly in hospitalized and chronically ill patients. Research shows that psychological stress can impair immune function, reduce tissue regeneration, and prolong inflammation, all of which slow the healing process. It is important to explore how both acute and chronic stress affect different types of wounds, such as surgical incisions, pressure injuries, and diabetic ulcers. Additionally, identifying which stress-reduction interventions are most effective in improving healing outcomes is essential. Understanding these factors can help nurses implement targeted, evidence-based interventions to promote faster recovery.

Exploring The Relationship Between Behavioral Health Early Prediction Model And Patient Outcomes In The Emergency Department, Karen M. Richendollar, Kathie M. Zimbro

Knowledge and Creativity Expo

Problem: Emergency departments (EDs) are increasingly utilized for mental health (MH) care, often resulting in overcrowding and delayed access to specialized services. A significant proportion of MH patients are discharged without a psychiatric consult, raising concerns about safety and readmission rates. This trend places additional strain on already limited behavioral health resources and contributes to care delays for patients in acute crisis. Moreover, the lack of standardized discharge criteria for MH patients increases variability in care and may compromise patient outcomes. Purpose: This study evaluates the effectiveness of the Behavioral Health Early Discharge Prediction Model (BHEDPM) in identifying MH patients …

A Qi: Implementing Pawss And Ciwa Adherence Challenge In The Psychiatric Emergency Department, Bailey Poler

Providence Nursing Research Conference 2023 – Present

No abstract provided.

Program Evaluation: The Chronic Suicide Pathway (Csp), Brittney Stoll, Julia Victoria B Salve

Providence Nursing Research Conference 2023 – Present

No abstract provided.

Mental Health First Aid Training In K-12 Schools, Jenna L. Workman, Brianna L. Schierberg, Grace H. Sullivan, Erin Robinson

Posters-at-the-Capitol

The increasing prevalence of mental health challenges among school-aged children has become a rising public health concern. Recent data indicates that nearly 70% of schools report heightened mental health problems among students, with anxiety and depression being most common (National Center for Education Statistics, 2024). The purpose of this capstone project is to raise awareness of mental health issues in K–12 public schools and to increase faculty and staff confidence in recognizing and assisting students experiencing mental health difficulties through nurse-led Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training. Using Peplau’s Interpersonal Relations Theory as a guiding framework, this project emphasizes the …

Association Between The Diet Of Adolescents In America And The Prevalence Of Depression Found Within This Population, Mary Hoffman, Belinda Asamoah, Fadeyemi Okewusi

Student Scholar Symposium

Poor nutrition and lack of physical activity increase the risk of chronic mental and physical health conditions such as depression and obesity in American adolescents. Depression is the leading mental illness found in adolescents across the United States and less than 1 in 10 children eat their recommended vegetables, only 16 % of adolescents meet U.S. physical activity guidelines, 36.3% consume fast food on a given day, and as many as 20% are obese. These numbers show a rapid rise along with the availability of fast food. Multiple studies examine the relationship between healthy nutrition and the signs and symptoms …

Psych Assessment In The Er, Bailey J. Thompson, Addie Cowger, Hailie Hollis

Scholars Week

An immense amount of patients who enter the emergency department, whether for a psychiatric illness or not, struggle with mental health challenges. By creating a standardized routine and checklists for the care of high-risk psychiatric patients, the new quality and consistency can enhance patient experiences. This process will start at the triage stage and continue throughout their stay. Presenting the supportive research to the emergency department staff and introducing these changes gradually will help with staff buy-in and become a more sustainable process. Finally, with a structured approach, psychiatric patient outcomes will benefit significantly.

The Impact Of Physical Activity On Mental Health Disorders In Children, Brianna E. Ryan

Research & Creative Achievement Day

Purpose - The purpose of this project is to highlight the effects physical activity has on children's mental health and to provide evidence-based insights on ways physical activity can and should be incorporated into the developmental stages of children's lives. Ultimately, the goal being to promote healthier and improved mental health statuses for the younger populations.

Introduction - The mental health crises among children are on the rise as more children each year are diagnosed with mental health conditions. It has been found that around 20% of children ages five through seventeen regularly experience symptoms of mental health disorders and …

The Implementation Of Music Therapy For Dementia Patients, Lauren Holcomb, Jessica Borror, Jenna Schanz

Scholars Week

This research looks into the implementation of music therapy for dementia patients in several different clinical settings. The framework for the research takes a look at person-centered nursing care which focuses on the patient as an individual with specific wants and needs.

After reviewing the research articles, aspects of changing patient care like adding implementations of personal speakers and playing music in group settings were brought up as recommendations for facilities caring for dementia patients.

With these recommendations, we believe that there will be a reduced use of pharmacological interventions for behavioral outbursts and reduce the use of restraints. Most …

Cultural Education Interventions Impact On Cultural Competence, Kaylie V. Griffin Ms

ONU Student Research Colloquium

Problem: In the United States, there is a substantial increase in diversity. This increase in diversity poses multiple challenges for healthcare workers and healthcare systems. Because nurses care for patients with various cultural backgrounds, health beliefs and practices, and languages, cultural competency plays a pivotal role in providing patient-centered care. There is a need to enhance cultural education for healthcare workers to ensure that healthcare workers have the skills and knowledge to effectively engage with all patient populations. Implementing cultural education interventions seeks to increase healthcare workers' competency, communication, and patient outcomes. Purpose: The purpose of this research question is …

Development And Evaluation Of Trauma Informed Care Education For Licensed Nurses, Kristina O'Meara

Epsilon Sigma at-Large Research Conference

Trauma informed care nursing education is crucial. Trauma informed care is a method of providing health care which understands the likelihood of past and present traumatic events in patients and families. The experience of past or present trauma often led to chronic diseases, substance abuse disorder, fragmented health care, fears surrounding health care, chronic stress, and other negative health consequences. The purpose of this project is to increase licensed nurses’ awareness and ability to practice trauma informed care in clinical practice, as well as promote policy initiation within the health care facilities. Method planning integrated the Knowledge to Action Cycle. …

Comparisons Of Using Alcohol, Coping Strategies, Anxiety, And Depression Between Usa And Taiwanese College Students, Pi-Ming Yeh Associate Professor, Cheng-Huei Chiao Professor, Jennchang Liou Professor

Epsilon Sigma at-Large Research Conference

Purpose: In this study, we compared United States (US) and Taiwanese college students’ using alcohol, coping strategies, anxiety, and depression.

Research Questions:

1. What were the differences in demographic characteristics, using alcohol, coping strategies, anxiety, and depression between US and Taiwanese college students?

2. What were the relationships between US and Taiwanese college students’ using alcohol, coping strategies, anxiety, and depression?

3. How much of US and Taiwanese college students’ anxiety and depression were predicted by their use of alcohol, coping strategies?

Methods: Four hundred and one US and 180 Taiwanese college students were recruited in this study. This was …

Comparisons Of Spiritual Well-Being, Psychological Well-Being, And Suicidal Ideation Between Usa And Taiwanese College Students, Pi-Ming Yeh Associate Professor, Cheng-Huei Chiao Professor, Jennchang Liou Professor

Epsilon Sigma at-Large Research Conference

Background: In Taiwan, there were 7,038 reports of attempted suicide among people aged 24 or younger in 2018. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older.

Purpose: In this study, we compared United States (US) and Taiwanese college students’ spiritual well-being, psychological well-being, and suicidal ideation.

Methods: A total of 661 college students (481 from the US and 180 from Taiwan) were recruited to complete the survey study. This was a cross-sectional comparative research design. SPSS 28.0 was used to do the data analysis. Chi-square …

The Addition Of Nature To The Patient's Healing Regimen, Katelyn Lewis, Audrey Henry

Scholars Week

Through our scholarly research, we have found many benefits to the use of nature to help facilitate healing within patients. Our project aims to spread awareness of the positive aspects of nature during the healing process. Specifically, our research focuses on healing gardens and outside therapy for patients. Our presentation is based upon Nightingales' theory of the environment. Our hope is that facilities will implement the addition of nature to the patient's plan of care.

Effect Of Virtual Dementia Tour On Prelicensure Student Nurses’ Attitudes Towards Dementia Care: A Quantitative Study Protocol, Kevin Alton

Symposium of Student Scholars

Background: With over six million Americans currently living with dementia, it is crucial for prelicensure nursing programs to prepare registered nurses to provide quality care to individuals with dementia and their caregivers. Due to the challenges associated with providing face-to-face clinical experiential learning, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual simulation approaches are now being used as alternative or complementary clinical experiential teaching/learning methods.

Design: Quantitative Research

Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of the Virtual Dementia Tour on prelicensure student nurses' attitudes towards dementia care.

Methods: This study is nested in a larger ongoing multisite, mixed-methods crossover-experimental designed study that investigates …

Mental Health In Sexual And Ethnic Minorities, Aaliyah Bailey, Ashlyn Bowers, Ashley Clark, Cassidy Paquette, Garrett Bassham

Epsilon Sigma at-Large Research Conference

Evidence Based Health Promotion Scientific Abstract

Introduction & Background:

Mental Health resources are scarce in rural areas. In 2020, suicide was the third leading cause of death for African Americans ages 15 to 24; this is only one example of the mental health disparities experienced by minority groups.

Purpose Statement and Research Question:

We saught to answer: “Are there greater mental health disparities among sexual and ethnic minorities, such as LGBTQ+ groups or Middle Eastern women, compared to their heterosexual, majority counterparts; if so, is there anything we can do about the issue as nurses?”

Literature Review:

To match the …

Mental Health Disparities In Minorities And Their Relation To Nursing Practice, Aaliyah Bailey, Ashley Clark, Ashlyn Bowers, Cassidy Paquette, Garrett Bassham

Epsilon Sigma at-Large Research Conference

Evidence Based Health Promotion Scientific Abstract

Introduction & Background:

Mental Health resources are scarce in rural areas. In 2020, suicide was the third leading cause of death for African Americans ages 15 to 24; this is only one example of the mental health disparities experienced by minority groups.

Purpose Statement and Research Question:

We saught to answer: “Are there greater mental health disparities among sexual and ethnic minorities, such as LGBTQ+ groups or Middle Eastern women, compared to their heterosexual, majority counterparts; if so, is there anything we can do about the issue as nurses?”

Literature Review:

To match the …

Creation And Implementation Of A Trauma Informed Care Safety Tool In An Inpatient Mental Health Unit, Katie Rhea, Jeremy Williams, Teresa Rangel

Providence Nursing Research Conference 2023 – Present

No abstract provided.

Screenings To Decrease Pediatric Suicide, Jordan Bridges, Dana Schildmeyer, Amanda Austin, Laura Boesken

Posters-at-the-Capitol

This project aimed to examine the current practice related to mental health and depression screenings in pediatric patients. The benefits of implementing screening in schools in identifying depression and suicide risks sooner were also considered. This project focused on the correlation between earlier mental health screening and identification of these mental health disorders earlier in the life of pediatric patients and suicide rates. Current, published literature notes mental health screening in the pediatric population in schools is an effective method to facilitate monitoring and early intervention in detecting a mental illness. Schools implementing mental health screenings can result in increased …

Postpartum Depression For Mothers With Early Fetal Death Or Stillbirths, Callie Goldman

Symposium of Student Scholars

Background: Many times, prevention of early fetus death and stillbirths is possible; however, some mortality events are spontaneous or unavoidable. While existing research reveals the likelihood of postpartum depression for mothers following birth, few studies address the potential for postpartum depression of mothers of stillbirth or demised fetuses. The purpose of this study is to determine how mothers can be better prepared for the hardship of losing a baby during childbirth, while going through common difficulties, such as postpartum depression, following birth. Methods: A mixed method approach will be conducted to gather qualitative (interview) and quantitative (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale …

Intensive Care Unit (Icu) Delirium, Mckenna Redmond

Symposium of Student Scholars

The purpose of this evidence-based practice project is to implement and evaluate an effective way to prevent intensive care unit (ICU) delirium. My research question is asking whether nonpharmacological or pharmacological therapies are effective for preventing intensive care unit delirium acquired during stay. Delirium is a mental state that occurs from a variety of reasons that creates changes in arousal, cognition, and in mental abilities. It results in confused thinking and a lack of awareness of someone's surroundings. Delirium during acute settings, such as the ICU, can cause an increased risk for mortality. Thorough evaluation of multiple studies exemplified that …

Effectiveness Of Non-Pharmacological Interventions When Treating Postpartum Depression In First-Time Mothers, Rudy Trujillo, Tamantha Minton-Damm, Ashley Muntean, Natalia Lack

Symposium of Student Scholars

Abstract

Non-pharmacological intervention alone or paired with pharmacological interventions is somewhat effective in treating and lowering rates of postpartum depression (PPD) in women. Undergraduate students reviewed studies of the use of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments for postpartum depression. To narrow down results, the students based the review on studies completed within the last 10 years, focusing specifically on primiparas (first births) women. Responses ranged from no notable efficacy in reducing PPD measured against the Edinburgh Scale to marginal improvements when non-pharmacological and pharmacological approaches were combined, and testing extended to other scales of motherhood and postpartum. The students discuss the …

Psychiatric Medications: Does Education Affect Medication Prescriptions?, Surina M. Narine, Mary D. Ramos, Sarah Chu

Symposium of Student Scholars

Background: There is a lack of research on racial challenges among underrepresented adolescents regarding prescription drug use for mental illnesses. Purpose: This study addressed the following question: In adolescent minorities, how does education about racial disparity and culture affect the stigma and number of prescriptions written for psychiatric medications? This evidence-based practice project aimed to identify if racial awareness directly impacts the amount of psychiatric medication prescribed for adolescent minorities. Methods: Literature reviews analyzed qualitative and quantitative data to provide correlating information on racial disparities and psychotropic medications. This study examined the following possible factors for decreased prescribed drugs within …

Uncovering The Benefits Of Naturalistic Blue-Depleted Lighting In Hospitals: A Qualitative Study, Sam P. Cotton

Symposium of Student Scholars

With exponential technological advances, hospitals are tasked with prioritizing which expensive innovations truly impact as many patients as possible to give them the greatest chance of recovering and discharge them earlier. It is no surprise that most of the attention is focussed on pharmaceutical drugs and a variety of different equipment and machinery, but hospital facilities should look into simpler additions that can aid every patient admitted. The use of naturalistic blue-wavelength lighting is something that can benefit each patient’s recovery immensely. Multiple studies have proven positive effects that blue-depleted lighting compared to standard indoor fluorescent lighting has lowered stress …

Ensuring Safety During Behavioral Health Emergencies In Emergency Rooms, Allison Logue

ONU Student Research Colloquium

Problem: Psychiatric patient emergencies and behavioral outbursts are increasingly present in nonmental health units. With the associated increase in complexity and acuity of mental health emergency room visits, there is an associated increase in risk that they will become agitated, posing a risk to themselves and others. The yelling, manipulating, physical outbursts, and verbal or physical threats that can be associated with this patient population increases the risk of injury for staff and patients.

Purpose: The purpose of this project is to determine if the implementation of a behavioral health/aggressive patient bundle will decrease the number of staff injuries by …