30-minute Group Research Articles

Effect of Properly Describing the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) Scale on Heart Rate Response

Introduction: The Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale is often used to guide intensity during exercise. The purpose of this study was to determine if a thorough explanation of the scale is necessary to achieve optimal heart rate during indoor group cycling. Methods: The study consisted of a familiarization visit and two 60-minute instructor-led group cycling classes. The cycling sessions were identical in procedure; the only difference was that during one session, there was no explanation of the RPE scale (RPE-NE), and in the other, it was fully described in detail (RPE-E). Heart rate (HR) was continuously monitored. Maximal and average HR were calculated for each stage of the class. Repeated measures ANOVAs (condition x stage) were used to compare the mean HR, HRmax and %HRmax between conditions. Paired-samples t-tests were used to compare session RPE between conditions. Results: There were no differences between conditions for average HR (p=.436), HRmax (p=.086), or %HRmax (p=.084). There was also no difference between conditions in session RPE (RPE-NE: 15.7±1.4; RPE-E: 16.0±1.3; p=.432) Conclusions: A detailed explanation of the RPE scale before a group cycling class elicits a HR response similar to simply having a poster of the RPE scale posted and referenced.

Incorporating client perspectives: moving towards digital outcome measurement in pediatric speech-language pathology

ABSTRACT Caregivers’ needs and preferences regarding outcome measurement in pediatric speech-language pathology are not well-understood, but are critical to the development and implementation of meaningful clinical tools. This project engaged caregivers of preschoolers with speech, language and communication needs to understand their views on the potential for, and their preferences surrounding a digital version of one participation-focused outcome measure called the Focus on the Outcomes of Communication Under Six (FOCUS-34). Fifteen caregivers of preschoolers who were receiving services in a large health system participated in one of four 30–60-minute virtual focus groups or one of three individual interviews. Caregivers shared their perceptions of whether and how a digital FOCUS-34 may improve their service experience, and their preferred features and formats to make it useful. An inductive content analysis was used to identify relevant categories that described caregivers’ perspectives. Data were sorted into two categories: (1) caregivers believe a digital solution would improve their service experience, and (2) caregivers want a user-friendly digital FOCUS-34 to measure and give feedback on intervention outcomes. Multiple sub-categories were also identified, which further described caregivers’ views on how a digital measure would improve the feasibility of outcome measurement, family engagement in services, and transparent communication with providers. Sub-categories also outlined caregivers’ preferences for the features and functions of a digital measure and their suggested considerations for developers of the digital tool. Results provide new insight into caregivers’ perspectives on digital outcome measurement and will inform efforts to improve the utility of the FOCUS-34 for families.

Boredom, vigilance, and repetition during remote control room work for autonomous ships

Abstract Introduction: Remote Operating Centers (ROCs) enable human oversight of remotely operated and autonomous ships. However, the “human-in-the-loop” model of automated control oversight implies prolonged periods of inactivity punctuated by safety-critical action. This paper investigates the extent to which this role is aligned with humans’ innate attentional resources in terms of boredom, vigilance, and repetition. Method: A simulator study was completed with ROC operators (volunteer participants with relevant expertise). One group completed a short scenario (5 minutes; N = 16); the other completed a long scenario (30 minutes; N = 16). The duration marked the onset of a stimulus (an alarm), prompting manual takeover. In a mixed method approach, four sources of data were collected, consisting of pupillometry, questionnaire, interview, and video data. Results: Pupillometry data showed larger pupillary constrictions in the 30-minute group, indicative of decreased cognitive activity (effect size 0.25 mm). The questionnaire showed that operators in the 30-minute scenario were more likely to experience their tasks as unchallenging, understimulating, and lacking in meaning. Finally, a relationship was found between repetitive content and varying perceptions of time duration. Moreover, operators perceived scenarios as longer when they detected an “oddball” in the repetitive series (a gorilla passenger). Conclusion: ROC work as currently imagined is prone to boredom, vigilance decrement, and suppression of repetition. The study adds to the empirical research about boredom and its associated cognitive states in control room work. The study also contributes to design considerations impacting safety and organizational aspects like operator training and retention.

Optimization of a Self-management Program for Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain – Protocol of the Pain Education Program Optimization (PEPO) Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVES: The primary objective is to compare two modes of delivering an 8-week self-management program for chronic musculoskeletal (MSK) pain: standard self-management versus supported self-management, which includes two physiotherapist-led sessions and one patient-partner-led session. The primary outcome measure is pain-related disability after 10 weeks. Secondary objectives include comparing the effects of both delivery modes on pain-related disability after 26 weeks, as well as on pain severity, kinesiophobia, catastrophizing, pain self-efficacy, anxiety, and depression after 10 and 26 weeks. DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial protocol. METHODS: One hundred eight adults with chronic MSK pain will be recruited and evaluated at baseline and after 10 and 26 weeks. At each evaluation, primary (pain-related disability) and secondary (pain severity, kinesiophobia, catastrophization, pain self-efficacy, anxiety, satisfaction, and depression) outcomes will be assessed. After baseline, participants will be randomly assigned to (1) self-management group and (2) supported self-management group. In addition to the 8-week self-management program, participants in the supported self-management group will have two additional 30-minute counselling sessions with a physiotherapist and one 60-minute group session led by a peer living with chronic MSK pain. Linear mixed models will be used to compare the effects of the two delivery modes of the intervention on the outcomes. JOSPT Open 2024;2(4):282-288. Epub 10 September 2024. doi:10.2519/josptopen.2024.0070

Comparison of the Efficacy of Dorsal Root Ganglion Pulsed Radiofrequency for 2 Minutes versus 4 Minutes in the Treatment of Chronic Lumbosacral Radicular Pain

Objective: Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) treatment of the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) has been increasingly used to treat lumbosacral radicular pain (LRP) in recent decades. However, there is no consensus in the literature regarding issues such as PRF application duration. This study aimed to determine the efficacy and incidence of adverse events between 2-minute and 4-minute PRF applications. Material and Method: This retrospective study included 160 patients who underwent 2-minute or 4-minute DRG PRF treatment (Group-2 minute 82 patients and Group-4 minute 78 patients). The Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores before and 1 and 6 months after the interventions were evaluated to assess the effectiveness of the procedures. The rate of intervention-related adverse events was determined for both durations. Results: Both the 2-minute and 4-minute PRF procedures provided effective analgesia at 1 and 6 months compared with baseline. There was no difference in the NRS and ODI scores between the two groups at the measurement times. At the 1-month follow-up, 50% or greater pain relief was achieved in 39% of patients in the 2-minute group compared to 50% in the 4-minute group, with no difference between the groups. There was no significant difference in the rate of procedure-related adverse events between the groups. Conclusion: Although a higher success rate was achieved with 4-minute PRF, there was no significant difference, and both 2 and 4-minute PRF provided safe and effective analgesia compared with baseline. Prospective studies with larger sample sizes are needed.

Navigating Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Access: Qualitative Insights From Black Women at a Northeastern Historically Black College and University.

Black women are essential to ending the HIV epidemic in the United States; yet prevention, access, testing, and structural racism affect how HIV disproportionately affects them. Limited public health research focuses on Black women attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and the ability to address HIV prevention, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake. PrEP is a once-daily oral pill used to prevent HIV transmission and has suboptimal uptake within the Black community. This generic qualitative descriptive analysis identifies the barriers and facilitators of PrEP uptake among Black women attending an HBCU using the health belief model. Overall, 22 Black college women participated in a 60-minute focus group. Emergent categories were as follows: (a) Barriers-stigma, cost, and side effects; (b) Facilitators-PrEP's effectiveness, exposure to HIV, and unprotected sex. Our findings can inform future efforts to increase PrEP uptake among Black women attending an HBCU.

Progressive Resistance Training or Neuromuscular Exercise for Hip Osteoarthritis : A Multicenter Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial.

Exercise is recommended as first-line treatment for patients with hip osteoarthritis (OA). However, randomized controlled trials providing evidence for the optimal exercise type are lacking. To investigate whether progressive resistance training (PRT) is superior to neuromuscular exercise (NEMEX) for improving functional performance in patients with hip OA. Multicenter, cluster-randomized, controlled, parallel-group, assessor-blinded, superiority trial. (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04714047). Hospitals and physiotherapy clinics. 160 participants with clinically diagnosed hip OA were enrolled from 18 January 2021 to 28 April 2023 and randomly assigned to PRT (n = 82) or NEMEX (n = 78). Twelve weeks of PRT or NEMEX with 2 supervised 60-minute group sessions each week. The PRT intervention consisted of 5 high-intensity resistance training exercises targeting muscles at the hip and knee joints. The NEMEX intervention included 10 exercises and emphasized sensorimotor control and functional stability. The primary outcome was change in the 30-second chair stand test (30s-CST). Key secondary outcomes were changes in scores on the pain and hip-related quality of life (QoL) subscales of the Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS). The mean changes from baseline to 12-week follow-up in the 30s-CST were 1.5 (95% CI, 0.9 to 2.1) chair stands with PRT and 1.5 (CI, 0.9 to 2.1) chair stands with NEMEX (difference, 0.0 [CI, -0.8 to 0.8] chair stands). For the HOOS pain subscale, mean changes were 8.6 (CI, 5.3 to 11.8) points with PRT and 9.3 (CI, 5.9 to 12.6) points with NEMEX (difference, -0.7 [CI, -5.3 to 4.0] points). For the HOOS QoL subscale, mean changes were 8.0 (CI, 4.3 to 11.7) points with PRT and 5.7 (CI, 1.9 to 9.5) points with NEMEX (difference, 2.3 [CI, -3.0 to 7.6] points). Participants and physiotherapists were not blinded. In patients with hip OA, PRT is not superior to NEMEX for improving functional performance, hip pain, or hip-related QoL. Independent Research Fund Denmark.

The Effect of Preventable Harm Simulation on Entry-Level Nurses' Clinical Judgment

Beginning nurses face challenges such as increased care complexities, an aging patient population, and the knowledge-to-practice gap, resulting in practice errors. The project used preventable harm simulation scenarios, using the Lasater Clinical Judgment Rubric to evaluate clinical judgment behaviors in pre- and post-simulation exercises and a 30-minute facilitator-led group discussion.Eight two percent of the LCJR scores increased from the pre-simulation (mean 25.86; SD 3.93) to post-simulation (mean 30.59; SD 4.58). The evaluation noted 90% of the nurses indicated the project was extremely helpful in facilitating clinical judgment. It is essential to interpret these results cautiously due to the small sample size.

Evaluation of the Nutrition Society of Australia Mentoring Program for Registered Nutritionists

Mentoring is an established method of promoting networking, professional growth and learning, and career development in many health professions(1). For a non-vocational profession such as nutrition with a diverse scope of practice, the impact of mentoring remains unclear. In 2020, the Nutrition Society of Australia (NSA) developed and implemented a mentoring program for registered nutritionists. The individually matched mentoring facilitates a 12-month relationship between nutritionists who opted-in to the program. This qualitative case study research aimed to understand the conceptualisation and development of the NSA mentoring program and explore the experience from the viewpoints of both mentors and mentees in the program. First, a 60-minute focus group was conducted with the NSA program organising committee to explore the initial conceptualisation, objectives of the program, expected outcomes, and related training provided to mentors and mentees. Then, a 34-item questionnaire was sent to 63 participants from the first three program cohorts to collect their demographic information as well as expectations, perception and experience of the mentoring. Twenty-one questionnaire responses from 10 mentors and 11 mentees were collected. Participants were from a range of nutrition professions across NSW, VIC, QLD, and WA. Ten questionnaire participants (four mentors and six mentees) further participated in in-depth interviews to provide narratives of their experience. Thematic analysis was conducted with employment of theory-building structure within the case study(2). Our findings indicated that despite an explicit discussion of mentoring focus on employability skills, e.g. communication, professionalism, advocacy, etc., many mentees perceived mentoring as a gateway to employment and career pathway development. The perceived benefits of mentoring were highly dependent on matching of mentor/mentee, which was complicated by the diversity of practice within the profession, and unstated expectations of individual mentees. Regardless of the perceived quality of their mentoring experience, participants reported that the NSA mentoring program added value to the society’s membership and were supportive of program continuity. In conclusion, the NSA mentoring program was a value-adding strategy to the society membership and it could play an important role in career pathway support into the diverse areas of practice in the nutrition profession. More explicit discussion of expectations between mentors and mentees at the beginning of mentoring could enhance the mentoring experience.

Impact of Acute Ocular Hypertension on Retinal Ganglion Cell Loss in Mice.

To assess the correlation between intraocular pressure (IOP) levels and retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss across different fixed-duration episodes of acute ocular hypertension (AOH). AOH was induced in Thy1-YFP-H transgenic mice by inserting a needle connected to a saline solution container into the anterior chamber. Thirty-one groups were tested, each comprising three to five mice exposed to IOP levels ranging from 50 to 110mm Hg in 5/10mm Hg increments for 60/90/120minutes and a sham control group. The YFP-expressing RGCs were quantified by confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy, whereas peripapillary ganglion cell complex thickness was measured using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. Changes in RGC count and GCCT were determined from values measured 30days after AOH relative to baseline (before AOH). In the 60-minute AOH groups, RGC loss varied even when IOP was increased up to 110mm Hg (36.8%-68.2%). However, for longer durations (90 and 120minutes), a narrow range of IOP levels (60-70mm Hg for 90-minute duration; 55-65mm Hg for 120-minute duration) produced a significant difference in RGC loss, ranging from <25% to >90%. Additionally, loss of YFP-expressing RGCs was comparable to that of total RGCs in the same retinas. Reproducible RGC loss during AOH depends on precise durations and IOP thresholds. In the current study, the optimal choice is an AOH protocol set at 70mm Hg for a duration of 90minutes. This study can assist in determining the optimal duration and intensity of IOP for the effective utilization of AOH models.

Embodied Resilience: A Quasi-Experimental Exploration of the Effects of a Trauma-Informed Yoga and Mindfulness Curriculum in Carceral Settings.

Individuals who are incarcerated likely experience trauma or exacerbate existing trauma, which has significant health risks. Trauma-informed care aims to address the experienced trauma. The current study explored the effect of a trauma-informed yoga and mindfulness curriculum in carceral settings. In this quasi-experimental study, participants (n = 326) were assigned to either six weekly sessions of 60-minute group trauma-informed yoga and mindfulness or a waitlist control condition. Stress and mood were measured pre- and postclass, whereas coping, emotional awareness, emotional regulation, anxiety, anger management, compassion, self-compassion, forgiveness, and posttraumatic growth were measured pre- and postcurriculum. The trauma-informed group showed a significant increase in mood and decrease in stress after participation in class. Participants were more likely to use positive coping skills, experienced greater levels of forgiveness, and were more likely to experience posttraumatic growth after completing programming as compared to a control group. Qualitative data highlighted perceived improvements in mood, physical health, communication with peers, coping with anxiety and anger, focus and self-control, optimism, acceptance, and open-mindedness. The qualitative data also demonstrated the importance of supportive relationships outside of participants' peers (i.e., instructors). Outcomes suggest benefit of a trauma-informed yoga and mindfulness curriculum in aiding people who are incarcerated in supporting mental and physical well-being and building resilience.

Knowledge, skills, and attitudes (KSAs) of adaptable academic nurse educators

AimUsing the Knowledge, Skills, and Attitudes (KSAs) framework, the aim of this study was to explore the specific knowledge, skills and attitudes of adaptable nurse educators to help inform the preparation of current and future educators for smooth transitions during periods of change. BackgroundExternal events, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, floods and wildfires can force programs to relocate and suspend classes for several days or weeks. These natural disasters have the potential to have a negative impact on the number of nursing students graduating on time as well as the quality of the clinical education experience and preparation for practice. Many lessons about educator adaptability can be learned from the COVID-19 restrictions. Identifying the KSAs of adaptable nurse educators during the rapidly changing educational landscape provided the opportunity for a foundational needs assessment to guide the preparation of educators for seamless transitions during times of change. DesignTo identify the KSA’s of adaptable nurse educators, an exploratory qualitative study using focus groups was conducted. The study used thematic analysis. MethodsThe research team developed, and pilot-tested focus group interview questions based on content areas identified in the literature. Targeted questions included queries specific to the KSAs necessary for adaptation and successful teaching using simulation. Educators from pre-licensure nursing programs in the United States participated in one of five 60-minute focus groups held virtually via a secure online meeting platform. ResultsAdaptable nurse educators have knowledge of resources, ongoing assessment, evaluation and teaching strategies and an understanding of the skillsets of their colleagues. Their skills include leadership, teamwork, redesigning learning and assessment. They demonstrate qualities such as resilience, empathy, acceptance, openness and positivity. ConclusionWith the current nursing workforce crisis, external events cannot be allowed to slow academic progression and graduation from nursing programs. In this exploratory qualitative study using focus groups, the KSAs held by adaptable nurse educators were explored. The findings of this study highlight the importance of collaboration and teamwork in academic institutes. The findings can be used as the foundation for nursing programs to prepare for future external events.

Prostaglandin E-major urinary metabolites as a new biomarker for acute mesenteric ischemia.

Acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) is an emergent vascular disease caused by cessation of the blood supply to the small intestine. Despite advances in the diagnosis, intervention, and surgical procedures, AMI remains a life-threatening condition. Prostaglandin E2 major urinary metabolite (PGE-MUM), the urinary metabolite of prostaglandin E2, is known to be stable in urine and has been suggested to be a valuable biomarker for intestinal mucosal inflammation, such as ulcerative colitis. We therefore investigated whether or not PGE-MUM levels reflect the degree of ischemia in an intestinal ischemia-reperfusion model. Male rats were used to establish a superior mesenteric artery occlusion (SMAO) group, in which the superior mesenteric artery was clamped, and a sham group. The clamping times in the SMAO group were either 30 minutes or 60 minutes, and reperfusion times were either 3 hours or 6 hours, after which PGE-MUM values were measured. The histological injury score of the SMAO (30-minute ischemia and 6-hour reperfusion group, 1.8 ± 0.4; 60-minute ischemia and 6-hour reperfusion group, 4.7 ± 0.5) and were significantly greater than that of the sham group (0.4 ± 0.7, p < 0.05). The PGE-MUM levels in the SMAO group (30-minutes ischemia and 6-hour reperfusion group, 483 ± 256; 60-minutes ischemia and 6-hour reperfusion group, 889 ± 402 ng/mL) were significantly higher than in the sham group (30-minute and 6-hour observation group, 51 ± 20; 60-minute and 6-hour observation group, 73 ± 32 ng/mL; p < 0.05). Furthermore, the PGE-MUM value was corrected by the concentration of urinary creatinine (Cr). The PGE-MUM/urinary Cr levels in the SMAO group were also significantly higher than in the sham group ( p < 0.05). We found that intestinal ischemia-reperfusion increased urinary PGE-MUM levels depending on the ischemic time. This suggests the potential utility of PGE-MUM as a noninvasive marker of intestinal ischemia.

The Effect of a Teaching Program on Knowledge, Practice, and Response Time of Nurses Regarding the Management of Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Background: Gastrointestinal bleeding is one of the emergencies that all therapeutic measures should be performed effectively and efficiently in a short time. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of an educational program on the improvement of nurses' knowledge, performance, and response time in the care of patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding in the Emergency Department. Methods: This quasi-experimental study employed a single group pre-test and post-test design and was conducted at the Emergency Room of the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS), New Delhi, India. A total of 20 nurses working in the Emergency Room were recruited through enumeration. Also, 35 events before and 35 events after the intervention were observed. The educational program was implemented through face-to-face lecture-cum discussion in six 30-minute sessions and groups of 3 to 4 nurses over three days. A researcher-made questionnaire was used to measure nurses’ knowledge regarding upper gastrointestinal bleeding, and their performance and response time were observed and calculated through a checklist. The data were described and analyzed using descriptive statistics, the paired t-test, the Kruskal-Wallis H test, and the Mann-Whitney U test in SPSS software, version 20. The significance level was set at P≤0.05. Results: A noticeable improvement in the scores of knowledge and performance and a significant decrease in the nurses’ response time were observed (P&lt;0.001). Also, there was a significant relationship between the knowledge score and the work experience of nurses in the Emergency Department (P=0.018). Conclusion: Periodic evaluation of nurses’ performance in the care and treatment of upper gastrointestinal bleeding emergencies through observation and checklist is recommended. In-service training courses regarding managing upper gastrointestinal bleeding seem to be necessary.

Effectiveness of Maher’s Fluid Intelligence Psycho-Educational Intervention Package on Cognitive Emotion Regulation in Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Maher’s fluid intelligence psycho-educational intervention package on improving cognitive emotion regulation in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Methodology: This research was a quasi-experimental study with a pretest-posttest control group design. The statistical population included 10-12-year-old boys with ADHD who had visited counseling and psychological service centers for children in Tehran during the first half of 2023. From this population, 30 participants were selected through multistage cluster sampling and randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. The data collection tools included the Conners’ Parent Rating Scale-Revised (CPRCBP) and the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire for Children (CERQ-K-P). The experimental group underwent 10 sessions of 45-minute group interventions, while the control group remained on the waiting list. Findings: Results of the Multivariate Analysis of Covariance (MANCOVA) showed a significant difference between the experimental and control groups in the increase of adaptive cognitive emotion regulation strategies, specifically positive refocusing and refocus on planning, and the decrease of maladaptive strategies (p&lt;0.05). However, there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of adaptive strategies such as acceptance, positive reappraisal, and perspective-taking (p&gt;0.05). Conclusion: Maher’s fluid intelligence psycho-educational intervention package effectively improves emotional regulation and cognitive performance in children with ADHD. By enhancing fluid intelligence and working memory, this intervention helps children better manage the challenges associated with ADHD and achieve better emotional regulation.

Comparison of the Impact of Body Percussion Exercises on Executive and Balance Performance in Intellectually Disabled and Healthy Girls of Ramhormoz City

Objective: The purpose of the present study was to compare the effects of body percussion exercises on the executive and balance performance of children with intellectual disabilities and their healthy counterparts. Methods and Materials: The statistical population included healthy children and those with intellectual disabilities from Ramhormoz city, from which 20 healthy children (10 experimental, 10 control) and 20 children with intellectual disabilities (10 experimental, 10 control) aged 9 to 11 years were selected to participate in this research through pre-test and post-test evaluations using the Continuous Performance Test (sustained attention), Stroop Color and Word Test (response inhibition), Stork Stand (static balance), and Heel-Toe Walking (dynamic balance). The experimental groups (both healthy and with disabilities) received the selected body percussion intervention program in 45-minute group sessions twice a week for 8 weeks; however, the control groups (both healthy and with disabilities) engaged in usual school activities. Data analysis was performed using covariance analysis at the significance level of p ≤ 0.05. Results: The results showed that the effect of body percussion exercises on sustained attention (p = 0.001), response inhibition (p = 0.001), and static and dynamic balance (p = 0.001) was significant, and participants in the experimental groups performed better than those in the control groups (p = 0.001). Conclusions: Based on the findings, it seems that body percussion exercises are a beneficial intervention for improving motor and cognitive skills in both healthy children and those with intellectual disabilities; therefore, it is recommended that these exercises be used in physical education programs in schools and rehabilitation centers.

Development and feasibility of a virtual, synchronous mind-body resiliency intervention for fathers of children and youth with special healthcare needs

BackgroundFathers of children and youth with special healthcare needs (FCYSHCN) are an overlooked population at risk for chronic stress. Mind-body practices offer a patient-centered approach to foster coping and resiliency, yet low engagement from fathers in existing programs suggests adaptation is needed. This multiphase study examines the feasibility of a synchronous, virtual mind-body intervention adapted for FCYSHCN. Methods31 FCYSHCN were recruited online via community partners and recruitment portals in an academic medical center in Boston, MA. Phase 1 consisted of individual interviews (N = 17) to determine fathers’ stressors, coping strategies, program needs, and suggested adaptations to the intervention protocol. The Phase 2 single arm pilot feasibility trial (N = 14) consisted of eight weekly 60-minute group sessions delivered virtually. Primary feasibility metrics were attendance (benchmark: mean=6 sessions) and electronic survey completion at baseline and post-intervention. Acceptability was assessed using post-session ratings of program satisfaction (4-point Likert scale; scores ≥3 coded as helpful) and helpfulness (e.g., group structure). Exploratory outcomes included validated measures of stress coping, resiliency, parental stress, depression, anxiety, which were analyzed using paired-samples t-tests (alpha=.05) to generate effect sizes (η2). ResultsIn Phase 1, FCYSHCN discussed primary stressors (e.g., perceived inadequacy as a father) and multifaceted impacts of these stressors on physical, cognitive, emotional, and social wellbeing. Fathers also described coping strategies deemed helpful (e.g., humor) and unhelpful (e.g., “shutting down” from others). Qualitative findings informed intervention modifications. In Phase 2, most FCYSHCN (79%) attended ≥ 6 intervention sessions (mean=7). Follow-up survey completion was high (86%). Session satisfaction was high, with 7/8 sessions rated as helpful by most fathers. Program components deemed most helpful were the group structure, virtual delivery, exposure to a variety of relaxation and meditation skills, and the length of sessions. Although we were not powered to observe pre-post change, stress coping improved (p = .02, η2 = 0.42) and confidence increased in applying relaxation (p = .04, η2 = 0.34) and assertiveness techniques (p = .05, η2 = 0.31). ConclusionsThe first mind-body resiliency program for FCYSHCN is feasible and acceptable. Further testing is warranted in randomized trials with diverse samples of fathers, an appropriate comparison arm, and longitudinal assessments of psychosocial and biobehavioral outcomes.

Where are we heading? A network and collaborative workshop to design and shape future activities of the Emerging Researchers and Professionals in Integrated Care network (ERPIC)

ERPIC aims to provide opportunities for emerging researchers and professionals to network, collaborate and engage in peer-to-peer relationships and mentorships, with the aim of advancing the field of integrated and person-centred care, which can improve patient outcomes, experiences of care, efficiency and cost-effectiveness of care delivery and health systems, and the satisfaction of healthcare workforce. The next generation of students, academics, researchers and practitioners is essential in shaping tomorrow’s healthcare systems.&#x0D; Since the establishment of ERPIC in 2018, the network has mobilized about 500 followers, working and studying in about 33 countries worldwide and promoted opportunities to engage these early researchers and professionals in the field of integrated care. Aligned with its mission, ERPIC needs to be in continuous movement and adaptive to its members’ needs. &#x0D; During ICIC22, ERPIC initiated a process of continuous improvement by exploring the needs of emerging researchers and professionals. Building on the knowledge generated from the workshop at ICIC22, the ERPIC Executive team now wants to find out whether these needs are still relevant and how we, together, can take the next step in the desire to put the needs into action. &#x0D; Accordingly, this workshop aims to provide an opportunity for conference delegates to contribute to the future plans and activities of ERPIC and network with peers.&#x0D; The aims of this interactive workshop activity are to:&#x0D; - Meet and connect with other early career researchers and professionals in integrated care&#x0D; - Practice networking&#x0D; - Share ideas about the future of ERPIC&#x0D; - Get involved in designing future activities of ERPIC&#x0D; This workshop is designed for current ERPIC-network followers and emerging researchers and professionals in the integrated care field interested in joining a supportive network.&#x0D; Senior members of IFIC, professionals in the field of integrated care and participants of ICIC23 who are interested in meeting ERPIC-members are welcome to participate.&#x0D; &#x0D; Workshop hosts: Sebastian Lindblom, Mark Derks, Paul Wankah&#x0D; The workshop starts with a 5 min introduction, preparation and information about the workshop. This will be followed by a 10 min presentation on the result of our exploration of the expressed needs of our EPRIC members. Participants will be divided into groups and have the opportunity to get to know each other and familiarize themselves during a 30 min network session. This will be followed by a 30 min co-creative session where each group will brainstorm about early career researchers and professionals’ needs and how they can be addressed. Together, the group will develop concrete suggestions for activities and a plan to realize them. The session finishes with a 15-minute group presentation and summary.&#x0D; Learnings/Takeaway: Participants will:&#x0D; - Create new contacts and start building/expanding a network&#x0D; - Get insights on early career researchers and professionals’ needs and activities &#x0D; - Gain an understanding of ERPIC and its mission&#x0D; - Have the opportunity to influence the future direction and activities of ERPIC&#x0D; The results and findings from the workshop will be summarized in a short report and disseminated to the network.

PROVIDER PERCEPTIONS OF FACTORS IMPACTING COUPLES’ EMOTIONAL DISTRESS AND ADJUSTMENT TO DEMENTIA DIAGNOSES

Abstract Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) are increasingly common conditions that disrupt the lives of persons living with dementia and their spousal care-partners. At the time of ADRD diagnoses, many couples experience challenges that produce emotional distress and relationship strain. At present there are no interventions to address these challenges early after diagnosis to promote positive dyadic adjustment. As the first phase of a larger study, we conducted a qualitative study to elicit and systematically summarize the perspectives of ADRD medical stakeholders (e.g., neurologists, geriatricians, social workers, neuropsychologists, care coordinators) surrounding common factors impacting distress following ADRD diagnoses. Participants (n=15) were recruited from two U.S. academic medical centers and completed a 60-minute focus group or individual interview that was transcribed, deidentified, and analyzed using a rapid data analysis approach to thematic analysis. We identified findings within 3 overarching themes: reactions to diagnosis, changes in relationship roles/dynamics, and insufficient resources. Participants described couples’ distress surrounding one partner’s denial or lack of insight into the diagnosis and symptoms, experiences of loss and hopelessness, and uncertainty surrounding illness trajectory. They noticed changes in couples’ historic roles, social determinants of health, and divergent understandings and reactions to diagnosis as contributors to couples’ distress. Finally, providers observed unmet needs surrounding embedded counseling, care-planning, and financial support for current and future care needs. Most providers felt insufficiently prepared to help couples experiencing distress. Our findings underscore the importance of improving resources to address individual, interpersonal, and system-level factors that contribute to couples’ adjustment to ADRD diagnoses.

PEER (DYADIC) SUPPORT: A FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR OLDER AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN WITH HYPERTENSION

Abstract African American women have a higher prevalence of hypertension than women of other ethnicities. Interventions have not adequately addressed the higher prevalence of hypertension in this population. Social support networks can be an effective strategy for improving hypertension self-management behaviors. The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of an 8-week peer (dyadic) support intervention to improve diet adherence and reduce systolic blood pressure among older African American women with hypertension and describe the relationship that occurred during the intervention. This mixed methods study used a convergent parallel design. A total of 26 African American women diagnosed with hypertension, aged 60 and older were paired to form 13 dyads. All participants completed a 3-hour training session consisting of home blood pressure monitoring, DASH diet, and communication. Participants completed pre and post DASH diet surveys, and the Social Support Survey (MOS) post intervention. At the end of the 8-week intervention, participants discussed their experiences in a 60-minute focus group session. Content analysis was used to analyze focus group interviews. Preliminary data analysis will be presented. Emerging themes included, accountability, epiphany, challenges with hypertension management, communication with each other, and receiving support. Preliminary findings suggest that peer (dyadic) support is feasible and can be an effective intervention strategy to improve diet and blood pressure management. Future studies should address specific challenges to hypertension management identified by participants. Lastly, this study used random within site pairing for participants without an identified partner. Future studies should develop criteria for pairing partners.