Biography:

Irene Kane is an Associate Professor of Nursing with extensive clinical, teaching and research experience in developing and teaching health promotion programs emphasizing disease prevention and health management to improve psychobiological wellbeing. She is a certifi ed Screening Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) trainer with over 25 papers published in peer-reviewed journals and share SBIRT training knowledge, skills and outcomes to address substance use identification and brief interventions earlier along the continuum of use, misuse, abuse and dependence.

Abstract:

Aim: The purpose of this study was to explore pedometer-determined physical activity in adults with schizophrenia.

Methods: A prospective and observational design explored the pedometer-determined physical activity (PA) frequencies and patterns of adults, aged 18 to 60 years, recruited from a local clinic where patients with schizophrenia are managed. Subjects learned how to wear and properly use the pedometer to walk briskly for 30 minutes each day. Descriptive statistics included average hours calculated over the 2 week study with mean step counts recorded each day of the 14-day monitoring period to enable determination of any PA patterns. Motives for PA Measure-Revised (MPAM-R) and stress by Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) were assessed at baseline and 2 weeks.

Results: Fourteen subjects were recruited, 2 were dropped. Most subjects identified themselves as African American (n=12, 83.3%), average age 43.25±10.58 years; 13.5±1.78 years of education; and unemployed (n=10, 83.3%). Sample baseline data indicated 33.3% (n=4) were overweight and 66.7% (n=8) were obese. Subjects walked average 52.64 (SD=35) minutes each day week one, 56.07 (SD=26.47) minutes each day week two. Five subjects (42%) walked 30 minutes each day more than 5 days week one, 6 subjects (50%) week two. PA patterns exhibited repeated walking engagement approximately 3 days, back-to-usual sedentary habits. Highest exercise motive: Fitness (baseline mean=6.03±1.10; two week mean=5.72±1.03). No significant correlations were found between exercise motives and PA baseline-2 weeks respectively (p>0.05). Mean stress score: 1.97±0.72 baseline; 1.99±0.64 two weeks. Relationships between stress level and PA steps: Negatively associated baseline and 2 weeks (r=-0.02, p=0.96; r=-0.54, p=0.07).

Biography:

Kari Ingstad has completed her PhD from Norwegian University of Science and Technology and Post-doctoral studies from Nord University. She is Director of Research in the Faculty of health Sciences, Nord University. She has published more than 20 journal papers, book chapters and conference papers. She has edited one book on gender, work and employment.

Abstract:

Extended work shifts of 12 hours or more have become a common scheduling strategy for nurses in several countries, though this is not the case in Norway. There, many managers, nurses and union representatives have expressed concerns about whether nurses can function effectively while working long shifts. This study thus aimed to examine how long shifts influence nursing outcomes such as stress, continuity and responsibility in Norwegian nursing homes. Data were collected during in depth interviews with 16 nurses employed at four different nursing homes who have worked 12–14-hour shifts. Results suggest that long shifts actually reduce stress and increase both work continuity and accountability, though these positive impacts of long shifts occur primarily when all departmental staff work long shifts. Furthermore, fewer shift changes mean more time spent with patients and better communication.

Biography:

Lu Ann Sowko RN PhD. received her PhD in Exercise Physiology from the University Of Pittsburgh School Of Education. She is an Assistant Professor in The Acute and Tertiary Department. of the School of Nursing. She has 15 years of experience in undergraduate teaching in the clinical and classroom setting. Her current interests are physical activity, leadership, interprofessional education and medical surgical nursing. Currently, she is a member of Sigma Theta Tau and AMSN.    

Abstract:

Purpose: To explore knowledge, self-efficacy, beliefs and practices for engaging in physical activity (PA) counseling in undergraduate nursing students.

Theoretical Framework: Bandura’s theory of self-efficacy.

Methods: Cross-sectional survey distributed to 603 undergraduate nursing students. The 21-item questionnaire requested information regarding: (1) knowledge of current PA guidelines, (2) self-efficacy in PA counseling, and (3) personal PA beliefs and practices. Responses were analyzed by (1) program level (freshman, sophomore, junior, senior) using one-way Analysis of Variance and (2) type of program (traditional, second degree) using the Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal-Wallis test.

Major Findings: 539 students returned completed questionnaires (89%). The majority were females (89.2 %) enrolled in a traditional program (92%). Almost half (48%) responded they would recommend the amount of PA consistent with the current guidelines (≥150 min per week). However, less than 40% reported having an opportunity to engage in PA counseling. The majority (74.2%) reported partial to strong confidence in providing PA education. Students ranked providing PA counseling as 4th among 9 other lifestyle behaviors. Senior students reported better knowledge of the current PA guidelines than juniors (p = 0.02). Self-efficacy related to PA counseling was significantly lower in freshmen compared to sophomores, juniors, and seniors (p<0.001). Traditional students had lower self-efficacy in PA counseling compared to those in the accelerated program (p=0.003). Freshmen ranked PA higher compared to other lifestyle behaviors (3.9 ± 2.2) compared to juniors (4.8 ± 2.2) and seniors (5.0 ± 2.4) (p<0.001). Sophomores ranked PA higher compared to other lifestyle behaviors (4.1 ± 2.2) compared to seniors (5.0 ± 2.4).

Conclusion: Nursing students infrequently provide PA counseling, potentially due to low self-efficacy.

Implications: Undergraduate curricula may need to incorporate strategies to build competence to deliver PA counseling

Biography:

Linda L Vila is a Graduate of Brooklyn Law School and Hunter College of the City University of New York. She is a full-time Faculty Member at Long Island University, Post, where she has also served as Associate Dean of the College of Management and Chair of the Department of Health Care & Public Administration. She has extensive professional experience as a member of executive leadership at several New York City health care systems. Her research interests include health care administration, risk management, Magnet organizations and health care law.

Abstract:

An exploratory study using focus group methodology and qualitative content analysis was conducted to examine physician perceptions of Magnet nurses and Magnet designation. This study is significant because it is the first of its kind to give physicians a voice regarding Magnet. Findings from the research suggest that Magnet nurses are highly regarded by physicians. They possess the knowledge, skills and values needed to deliver superior care to patients and they promote a culture of excellence, not just in nursing but across all disciplines. Physicians benefit from working with Magnet nurses, especially nursing leadership, because the nurses are vigilant about communication, cooperation and consideration. Physicians also benefit from the Magnet designation as it cloaks the organization in an aura of distinction and connotes added value for patients and staff. Key themes emerged related to Magnet nurse characteristics, relationships with physicians, nursing leadership, shared governance and Magnet as a marketing tool. “Magnet Marginalization” emerged as a new theory. Knowledge of how physicians regard Magnet nurses and Magnet recognition can be used to inform organizations considering Magnet designation, to attract a high caliber of medical staff to Magnet institutions, and to induce affiliations with other organizations.

Biography:

Abstract:

Problem: Central nervous system (CNS) tumors are the most commonly diagnosed solid tumor in childhood, accounting for nearly 20% of all pediatric cancers.  Radiation therapy is an effective treatment modality for many CNS tumors; however, this treatment may produce significant physical and psychosocial stress for both the child and parent.  Many pediatric healthcare institutions use intervention programs delivered by certified child life specialists (CCLS) to provide psychosocial support and thereby promote successful coping in children and families facing a variety of stressful illnesses and procedures.  The purpose was to examine the relationship between play-based procedural preparation and support intervention and use of sedation in children with central nervous system (CNS) tumors during radiation therapy. The secondary objective was to analyze the cost-effectiveness of the intervention compared to costs associated with daily sedation.

Methodology: A retrospective chart review was conducted for inclusion. Outcome measures included the total number of radiation treatments received, the number of treatments received with and without sedation, and the type and duration of interventions, which consisted of developmentally appropriate play, education, preparation, and distraction provided by a certified child life specialist.

Findings: The results of univariate analyses showed that age, tumor location, and total number and duration of interventions were significantly associated with sedation use. The results of multivariate analyses showed that, after adjustment for age and tumor location, a significant relationship was found between the total number and duration of the interventions and sedation use. The implementation of a play-based procedural preparation and support intervention provided by a certified child life specialist significantly reduced healthcare costs by decreasing the necessity of daily sedation. 

Conclusions: Support interventions provided by child life specialists significantly decreased both sedation use and the cost associated with daily sedation during cranial radiation therapy in children with CNS tumors.

Biography:

Amy Kennedy is a Lead Child Life specialist in the Child Life program at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.  She is responsible for providing Child Life services to the patients and families in the Radiation Oncology Clinic.  She was recently awarded the national clinical excellence award within the field of child life recognizing her exemplary skills and dedication to the field.  Amy assists in research and presents her work nationally

Abstract:

Problem: Central nervous system (CNS) tumors are the most commonly diagnosed solid tumor in childhood, accounting for nearly 20% of all pediatric cancers.  Radiation therapy is an effective treatment modality for many CNS tumors; however, this treatment may produce significant physical and psychosocial stress for both the child and parent.  Many pediatric healthcare institutions use intervention programs delivered by certified child life specialists (CCLS) to provide psychosocial support and thereby promote successful coping in children and families facing a variety of stressful illnesses and procedures.  The purpose was to examine the relationship between play-based procedural preparation and support intervention and use of sedation in children with central nervous system (CNS) tumors during radiation therapy. The secondary objective was to analyze the cost-effectiveness of the intervention compared to costs associated with daily sedation.

Methodology: A retrospective chart review was conducted for inclusion. Outcome measures included the total number of radiation treatments received, the number of treatments received with and without sedation, and the type and duration of interventions, which consisted of developmentally appropriate play, education, preparation, and distraction provided by a certified child life specialist.

Findings: The results of univariate analyses showed that age, tumor location, and total number and duration of interventions were significantly associated with sedation use. The results of multivariate analyses showed that, after adjustment for age and tumor location, a significant relationship was found between the total number and duration of the interventions and sedation use. The implementation of a play-based procedural preparation and support intervention provided by a certified child life specialist significantly reduced healthcare costs by decreasing the necessity of daily sedation. 

Conclusions: Support interventions provided by child life specialists significantly decreased both sedation use and the cost associated with daily sedation during cranial radiation therapy in children with CNS tumors.

Biography:

Gitte Bunkenborg completed her PhD in April 2014 from Lund University, Sweden, and she is currently working on Post-doctoral studies at Holbaek University Hospital, Denmark, a 350-bed university hospital, where she is Head of Nursing Research. Her research interest concerns patient safety, early warning score, nurses’ monitoring, documentation- and communication practice.

Abstract:

We evaluated adherence to an intervention comprising systematic, mandatory early warning scoring (MEWS) of vital parameters and the process of implementing the intervention. Systematic early warning scoring is reported to reduce unexpected in-hospital mortality. However, reports of adherence to the intervention are often lacking but necessary to interpret intervention outcome correctly. Adherence to the intervention, known as implementation outcome, and the implementation process was evaluated using mixed-methods. Adherence was assessed by comparison of time intervals between bedside measuring of vital parameters before (2009) and after (2010 and 2011) the intervention was implemented and by calculations of time to the next MEWS scoring. Evaluating the implementation process using semi-structured interviews of nurse ward managers complemented quantitative results. There were significant reductions in time intervals between measuring heart rate and body temperature (corresponding to MEWS 0-3), and blood pressure (corresponding to MEWS 0-2), between 2009 and 2010, and between 2009 and 2011. Scoring was repeated within eight hours in 71% of all patients with MEWS 0. In 2010 and 2011, scoring was repeated within eight hours in 69% and 72%, respectively, of patients with MEWS 2, and in 71% and 77%, respectively, of patients with MEWS 4. Interviews illuminated that nurses were motivated to adhere to the intervention because of the clinical relevance and meaningfulness of the intervention. We found high short- and long-time adherence to systematic, mandatory early warning scoring resulting in 69-77% of patients being re-scored every eighth hour. The clinical relevance of the intervention motivated the implementation process.

Biography:

Dr. Sharon Elizabeth Metcalfe is currently the Program Director for the NN-CAT (Nursing Network-Careers and Technology Program) Nursing Mentoring and Diversity Program at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, North Carolina. Dr. Metcalfe is additionally an Associate Professor of Nursing. Dr. Metcalfe has published numerous international articles on mentoring of students, nurses and additionally leads a collaborative mentoring program with nursing students and nurses between Western Carolina University and the Edinburgh Napier University with Schools of Nursing, with student exchanges with nurse mentors.

Abstract:

Despite the increased diversity and multicultural transformation of the population within the United States, the majority of nurses in the workforce are found to be educated from Caucasian

backgrounds. At present, there is minimal inclusion of students from underrepresented ethnic minorities, as well as students from the rural Appalachian region. This presentation describes an

innovative and creative mentoring program that was implemented at a university to increase the diversity of the student enrollment in nursing. Through the use of specially trained nurses from the community, students received specialized mentoring, guidance and encouragement for academic and social success. Additionally, students received academic scholarships and monthly stipends to help eliminate financial hardships. With the guidance of the nursing

mentors with students, there was an increase in the acceptance rate of underrepresented ethnic minorities and rural Appalachian students for the School of Nursing program. Programs such as these may prove to be beneficial in helping to integrate a diversity of nursing professionals into the nursing workforce in the United States.

Biography:

Dr. Wagner completed her Ph.D. from the University of Alberta. She is the acting Dean of Graduate Programs and Coordinator of Research and Scholarship for the Faculty of Nursing, University of Regina. In addition, she is a Research Associate with the Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region.  She has published more than 13 papers in reputed journals.       

Abstract:

Background: The recent world-wide financial crisis led to a focus on professional practice changes and healthcare restructuring. These changes motivated by the need to optimize resources had the potential to dehumanize health care. Spirit at work (SAW), identified as a holistic measure of workplace outcomes, has emerged as a response to Canadian nurse determination to maintain a healthy and productive healthcare work environment.

Aim: The aim of this research was to describe the care provider’s perceptions of SAW within the restructured continuing care workplace.

Method: Explanatory mixed methods research using concurrent triangulation was conducted. 18 Likert style questions were further informed by two open-ended questions. The survey was provided to a convenience sample of 53 care providers within a continuing care centre during February, 2014. 31 care providers, comprised of registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and unlicensed continuing care aides responded to the survey. The survey results were compared with previous research conducted with licensed care providers.

Results: This mixed group of licensed and unlicensed care providers reported perceptions of SAW that were lower than those reported by licensed care providers in previous studies. They also described a low sense of community and low mystical experience. Responses to open ended questions provided suggestions for improvements which included; improving manager/care provider interactions, listening to provider concerns, supporting teamwork, creating a non-punitive workplace and providing adequate resources for patient care.

Conclusions: The high proportion of unlicensed continuing care aides in this sample may have contributed to low SAW. Further research identifying the relationship between care provider perceptions of SAW and measureable patient morbidity statistics is essential. SAW research investigating workplace perceptions of licensed and unlicensed health care providers offers valuable decision making information for policy makers and health care leaders.

Biography:

Lorraine Mongiello is a registered Dietitian/Nutritionist and a certified Diabetes Educator. She has specialization in “Public health, nutrition and the prevention and treatment of diabetes”. She was Director of Campaign Against Diabetes at City University of New York (CUNY) and was Director of Diabetes Care Center at St. Charles Hospital, where she implemented a diabetes education program serving more than 500 people annually. Currently, she is a Professor in Clinical Nutrition and Interdisciplinary Health Sciences departments at New Your Institute of Technology (NYIT) in Old Westbury, New York. She has completed her Doctor of Public Health degree at CUNY Graduate Center, Master’s degree in Nutrition and Public Health at Teacher’s college, Columbia University and Bachelor’s Degree in Food and Nutrition Science at Lehman College in New York City. Her current research focuses on “The social determinates of health and how the environment impacts health behaviors among young adults”.

Abstract:

Background: Although the rapid increase of type 2 diabetes is crossing all socio‐economic groups, it is still most prevalent among minorities and the poor. Recent data suggest that non-Hispanic African-American (16%) and Mexican-American (15.7%) adults exhibit higher age-adjusted prevalence than non-hispanic white adults (8.8%) and Asian-Americans are 30-50% more likely to have diabetes than their white counterparts. It is unknown if at risk young adults recognize their increased likelihood of developing diabetes.

Methods: Diabetes risk knowledge, individual risk perception, health status and individual health behaviors were collected and examined from 1,579 multiracial urban college students. Students have little knowledge of diabetes risk factors; identifying less than three of the 10 most important factors. Significant variation exists in the understanding of risk among racial/ethnic groups; only 0.02% of Asian, 14.0% of Hispanic and 22.8% of black students recognized that their race increased their risk. Among those students reporting three or more known risk factors (n=541) only 39% perceived that they were at high risk.

Discussion: These under-estimators (students unaware of their high risk) scored lower on a diabetes knowledge test (P=0.03) than those who acknowledged their risk; indicating that the cause of under-estimating risk may be, at least, in part due to a lack of information about risk factors. Asian students may be unaware of their risk as Asians develop diabetes at a much lower or normal BMI than other groups.

Conclusion: There is a pressing need to heighten knowledge and perception of diabetes risk among young adults in all groups to decrease the future burden of diabetes.

Biography:

Robert Scoloveno PhD, RN is an assistant professor and director of simulation laboratories at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey school of Nursing-Camden. He has studied the concept of residence for the past 8 years, specially health outcomes of resilience in adolescence.  His other area of research is educational outcomes of simulation technology among schools of nursing, and is an expert in curriculum integration of simulation into schools of nursing.

Abstract:

There is a dearth of knowledge about the health outcomes of resilience during adolescence, making the study of health-related outcomes of resilience important. The purpose of this study was to develop a theory-based just-identified model and to test the direct and indirect effects of resilience on hope, well-being, and health-promoting lifestyle on middle adolescents.  The study used a correlational design.  The sample consisted of 311 middle adolescents, aged 15 to 17, who were recruited from a public high school.  Participants responded to instrument packets in classroom settings.   The structural equation model was tested with the LISREL 8.80 software program.   All seven hypotheses were supported at a statistically significant level (p< .001).  The results of the study supported the theoretical propositions and the previous empirical findings that were used to create the theoretical model of health-related outcomes of resilience. Alternate models of outcomes of resilience need to be developed and tested on adolescents.

Biography:

Alice Jane Haines has obtained her BSN from West Virginia Wesleyan College and her Master of Science in Nursing Education and Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Pittsburgh. She is currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Acute and Tertiary Care at the University of Pittsburgh. She has worked for 33 years in Nursing and has 25 years of Nursing Education experience. She has also worked as a Staff Nurse for more than 5 years on a Lung Transplant Step-down Unit. Caring for Lung Transplant recipients and their caregivers is truly her passion.

Abstract:

Purpose:  The lung transplantation process is stressful for both patient and caregiver.  Infection and rejection are post-transplant concerns that may impact long-term survival.  Several qualitative studies have assessed caregiver feelings, but none of these have analyzed the effects of complications and re-hospitalization on caregiver stress and anxiety. The purpose of this study was to assess stress and anxiety levels of post-lung transplant caregivers, and how these may be affected by re-hospitalization and/or development of complications. The authors also wanted to gain an increased understanding of the post-transplant experience from the perspective of the caregiver.

Methods:  A convenience sample of 94 caregivers was recruited from a large tertiary medical center. Caregivers were approached during the hospitalization of their significant other. Each caregiver completed the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and the State Trait Anxiety (STAI) inventory on three occasions; baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks.  Interviews took place at those times asking about the patient’s location and health, and a description of the caregiving experience.  Each interview lasted 30-60 minutes.  The baseline interview was conducted face-to-face in the hospital; the 4 and 8 week follow-ups were by telephone.  Interviews were written and transcribed as soon as possible. 

Results/conclusion: Nineteen caregivers dropped out or were lost to follow-up; 2 patients died during the study.  Thirteen other records were deemed incomplete and were not included in the analysis.  60 interviews are currently being reviewed and coded. Most caregivers were married, white, female, and high school graduates.  Both the PSS and STAI scores at all three data collection points were higher than normed group scores.  Time since transplant and PSS scores were statistically significant (r=0.29 p=0.005) indicating the longer the caregiving experience, the higher the stress.  Six themes have emerged from the interviews thus far.  They include; 1) Concern for recipient health, 2) Concern for caregiver’s health and well-being, 3) Not being prepared for the transplant experience, 4) Significant life changes made for recipient 5) the Honeymoon phase , and 6) Resilience. These are preliminary results; data analysis is on-going.

Biography:

Linda L Vila is a Graduate of Brooklyn Law School and Hunter College of the City University of New York. She is a full-time Faculty Member at Long Island University, Post, where she has also served as Associate Dean of the College of Management and Chair of the Department of Health Care & Public Administration. She has extensive professional experience as a member of executive leadership at several New York City health care systems. Her research interests include health care administration, risk management, Magnet organizations and health care law.

Abstract:

Today’s health care landscape requires a new standard of service delivery aimed at quality outcomes, cost-effective provisions of coordinated treatment and access to equitable care. This standard has brought emerging risks that pose threats to the operational and financial well-being of health care organizations, especially safety net hospitals. The establishment of enterprise risk management (ERM) programs, guided by the efforts of efficacious health care managers, will promote deeper risk analysis, engagement of the entire health care organization, and structured, coordinated and cohesive mitigation responses to risk exposures. This paper examines the managerial competencies needed in today’s demanding health care climate. It discusses ERM, matches managerial competencies with effective ERM, and introduces a unique ERM framework implemented in a New York City hospital: The Administrator on Duty (AOD) model. A study using an inductive qualitative content analysis was conducted to explore the utility and value derived from the AOD model as perceived by organizational senior leadership as well as from the managers themselves who served as AODs. Results of the study suggest that the AOD model significantly contributes to all phases of ERM, particularly risk identification, risk assessment, risk response and monitoring. The model provides tremendous benefits to a health care organization. These include, among many others, a substantial leadership presence, dynamic risk mitigation efforts, continuous education to staff and facilitation of problem solving and conflict resolution. The AOD program is a vital constituent of an ERM endeavor.

Biography:

Dr. Dorah Ursula Ramathuba holds a PhD in Nursing Science. She is a senior lecturer at University of Venda, South Africa. Has been a lecturing for the past 25years facilitating integrated nursing science at undergraduate level, a nurse administrator, nurse educator and oncology nurse, teaches nursing management at post graduate level and promotes masters and doctoral students. She has presented papers in the field of womens’reproductive health nationally and internationally and has published manuscripts in accredited national and international journals

Abstract:

Background: HPV infections have the potential to cause various adverse health outcomes in males, including genital warts and some types of cancer (anal, penile and oral cancers). HPV concordance levels are high among sexual partners, so infected males also put their female partners at increased risk of cervical disease.

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to assess the knowledge of human papilloma virus and HPV vaccine among rural women in Vhembe district in Limpopo Province.

Methodology: A quantitative descriptive approach was adopted. The quantitative design enabled the discovery of more information by means of direct questioning of a sample of women 30 years and older. A convenience sampling was be used to select the respondents. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Measures to ensure ethical issues were adhered to.

Results: The findings revealed that women lacked knowledge about human papilloma virus and HPV vaccine, and displayed negative attitudes to the use of vaccines if given a pamphlet to let their daughters be immunized. Health workers did not adequately inform women about the availability of the services.

Conclusions: The awareness on human papillomavirus and HPV vaccine among women in Vhembe district is limited. There is a need to educate and promote awareness on cervical cancer screening methods among women in order to reduce the burden of morbidity and mortality.

Biography:

Dr. Wolf is an Associate Professor of Nursing and an independent Healthcare Informatics Consultant. Dr. Wolf has over 35 years of experience within the healthcare arena. Her area of expertise focuses on integrating technology into a healthcare setting focusing on change management, process redesign and more recently the use of social media in supporting clinicians health 2.0 needs. Dr. Wolf has worked closely with various IT vendors and health systems in exploring and integrating new technologies. In 2013 she published her first book titled “Social media for nurses: Educating practitioners and patients in a networked world”.

Abstract:

Source of health information that continues to empower patients’ is the use of the internet and social media sites. Technology has made electronic health information resources readily available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. When patients use these sites for health information seeking, nurses have to ask themselves, “What education is communicated in order for this patient to become empowered and be a well-educated participant in their internet health-seeking behavior? Nurses, in the inpatient and outpatient settings, are in a key position to assess and communicate educational principles to the empowered patient on how to effectively access and assess information on the internet. An exploratory study was conducted assessing nurses’ level of knowledge and use of the internet. In addition, the study explored nurses’ assessment and education of their patients in using the internet. This presentation will introduce the results of the study supporting the need for educational programs on how to use the internet safely for both patients and nursing professionals. Several tools will be presented that will guide individuals in using the internet to seek health related information.

Biography:

Bonnie B. Anton MN RN FHIMSS has over 35 years of experience in acute care nursing. Presently she is an informatics nurse conducting electronic health record implementation and education training sessions for nursing and health care providers. Presently, in addition to her role as an informatics nurse, she also is evaluating the impact of patient education and health literacy on patients’ hospital readmissions and has implemented a health literacy educational session for newly hired hospital employees. She has presented nationally and internationally on informatics, social media and health literacy.

Abstract:

Source of health information that continues to empower patients’ is the use of the internet and social media sites. Technology has made electronic health information resources readily available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. When patients use these sites for health information seeking, nurses have to ask themselves, “What education is communicated in order for this patient to become empowered and be a well-educated participant in their internet health-seeking behavior? Nurses, in the inpatient and outpatient settings, are in a key position to assess and communicate educational principles to the empowered patient on how to effectively access and assess information on the internet. An exploratory study was conducted assessing nurses’ level of knowledge and use of the internet. In addition, the study explored nurses’ assessment and education of their patients in using the internet. This presentation will introduce the results of the study supporting the need for educational programs on how to use the internet safely for both patients and nursing professionals. Several tools will be presented that will guide individuals in using the internet to seek health related information.

Biography:

Zafar Iqbal Channa has completed his MSc Nursing and additionally did his Diploma in Educational Planning & Management and Diploma in Hospital Administration & HRM. He is currently working as Nursing Superintendent at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad. He has two research articles/papers to his credit.

Abstract:

Rapid scientific and technological discoveries have increased demands of specialized nursing care. Because knowledge and skills can be replaced by engaging nurses in a set amount of continuing nursing education (CNE) program activities. Literature suggested that degree or license is not the end point of education after basic nursing study. Apparently, basic nursing education for practice becomes obsolete within five to ten years of graduation. This obsolescence can lead to the poor performance of nurses in clinical practice. Therefore, a comparative study was designed to investigate and compare most influential and predicting barriers to participation among hospital nurses of two provinces in Pakistan. This was a cross sectional analytical study in which convenience sampling approach was used to collect data of three hundred (n=300) nurses through “Barriers to Participation Questionnaire” (BPQ).  Quantitatively, result interpretation was set as “the lower the mean score in each type of barrier, higher the barrier was measured due to reverse Likert scale rating. Generally, administrative barrier was found higher and most prevalent barrier, work-related barrier was more predictive and financial barriers as predicting barrier as compare to family and personal barrier.  Data also revealed that Punjab nurses have greater administrative with mean score of 2.16±0.87 and work-related barriers with mean score of 2.43±0.81 than the nurses from Sindh province with mean score of 2.26±0.75 and 2.81±0.90. Regarding financial barrier, both provinces nurses have equal level barriers than the family and personal barriers among nurses of two provinces. If nurses wish to make change in their practices, they need to connect with non-formal CNE programs. Nursing administration should provide these program opportunities for employed nurses both in and outside of the organization in all provinces.

Biography:

Abstract:

Background: Health care providers (HCP) are at high risk expose to blood borne infections such as hepatitis B (HBV), C (HCV) and immune deficiency viruses (HIV). A huge number of injections are being administered in private clinics in Pakistan. Majority of clinics run by unqualified quacks in a rural area. The risk exposures to HCPs in these clinics differ from those working in tertiary care hospitals due to accessibility of resources, infection control management, workshops, awareness and qualifications. Many studies have shown strong association between transmission of blood borne pathogens and needle stick injuries.

Aim: Aim of this study is to determine the frequency and factors leading with unsafe injection practices at four major cities of district Sanghar (Sindh).

Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted in HCPs running private clinics at four major cities of district Sanghar, Sindh Pakistan. By using multi stage sampling technique, 370 clinics proportionately selected through cluster sampling and stratified sampling. A pre-tested questionnaire was used to determine the percentage of unsafe injection practices among HCP.

Analysis: Categorical variables were calculated in frequency with percentage, and continuous scale variables with mean and standard deviation such as age and years of experience. 95% confidence interval with proportion was used to calculate at least one needle stick injury in the last one year.

Results: Out of 370 clinics, 368 HCPs were interviewed; 37.8% paramedics, 29.9% quacks, 22.6% MBBS, 4.9% DHMS and 1.4% Hakeem. Mean age (SD) of HCPs was 39 (8.92) years, and with mean (SD) experience of 14.7 (7.2) years. 55.71% were collecting used syringes in dustbin, 22.01% in sharp container and 22.28% using needle cutter. At least one needle stick injury (NSI) in last one year among HCPs at clinics in district Sanghar Sindh was 27.4%.

Conclusion: HCPs running private clinics are at higher risk in acquiring blood borne infection (BBIs) due to reused needle stick injuries, and poor hepatitis B vaccination program. There is an emergency need in launching protective measure for HCWs, and shield them from epidemic of blood borne infections (BBIs).

Biography:

Ntsieni Mashau has completed holds a Ph.D. in Rural Development from the University of Venda, South Africa. She is a senior lecturer in the Department of Public Health, University of Venda. She has published 15 papers in reputed journals and has been serving as a peer reviewer of manuscripts in accredited journals.

Abstract:

Background: Medical male circumcision has become a significant dimension of HIV prevention interventions, after the results of three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in Uganda, South Africa and Kenya demonstrated that circumcision has a protective effect against contracting HIV of up to 60 percent. Following recommendations by the WHO, Zimbabwe in 2009 adopted voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) as an additional HIV prevention strategy to the existing ABC behavior change model.

Purpose: The purpose of this study thus is to investigate the perceived barriers to the low uptake of medical male circumcision.

Methods: The study was quantitative cross-sectional survey conducted in Mutare rural district, Zimbabwe. Questionnaires with open and closed ended questions were administered to the eligible respondents. The target populations were males aged 15-29 who met the inclusion criteria. The households were systematically selected with a sample size of 234. The statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyze data.

Results: Socio-culturally, circumcised men are viewed as worthless (37%), shameful (30%) and are tainted as promiscuous (20%), psychological factors reported were infection and delayed healing (39%), being ashamed and dehumanized (58%); stigmatized and discriminated (40.2%) and fear of having an erection during treatment period (89.7%) while socio-economic factors were not having time, as it will take their time from work (58%) and complications may end up spending money on treatment (84%).

Conclusion: Knowledge deficits regarding male medical circumcision leads to low uptake, education on male medical circumcision and its benefits. Comprehensive sexual health education should target men and dispel negative attitudes related to use of health services.