This engagement award project evaluated the preliminary effectiveness of a culturally tailored psychoeducation session aimed at reducing mental health stigma among African American women and their social support networks.Participants included 25 community members, including African American women of reproductive age and members of their social support networks, engaged in a two-hour psychoeducation group session. This session addressed perinatal mood disorders, cultural and historical factors contributing to mental health stigma, impacts of untreated conditions, and culturally appropriate resources. Participants completed the Stigmatized Attitudes Toward Mental Illness Scale (SATMIS) before and after the psychoeducation session, along with a satisfaction questionnaire.Analysis revealed a large (Cohen's d = 0.98), significant reduction in stigmatized attitudes toward mental illness from pre-session (M = 62.4, SD = 10.2) to post-session (M = 48.9, SD = 9.7; p < .001). Most (92%) participants reported high satisfaction with the psychoeducation session.This engagement project provides preliminary evidence that a brief, culturally tailored psychoeducation group session can effectively reduce mental health stigma among African American women and their support networks. Given the disproportionate burden of perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMADs) and maternal mortality among African American women, this approach shows potential for addressing a significant barrier to mental health care utilization in this population.

"Moving through Uncertain Pathways": Health Professionals' perspectives on novel technologies for continuing care in high-risk pregnancy using the technology acceptance model.

ABSTRACT In recent years, social and research interest in making the context of sports and physical activity (PA) more affirmative and welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community has grown. However, the experiences of older LGBTQ+ adults within these settings remain invisible and are characterized by discrimination and barriers to access. Data collection occurred between October 2023 and March 2024. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 Italian LGB adults over 65 years (Mage = 70.6), exploring participants’ perspectives on social changes in access to PA and sports contexts and focusing on how LGBTQ+ community belonging may motivate older adults to engage in these settings. Using Thematic Analysis, we identified three themes: 1) Discrimination; 2) Evolving context; and 3) Motivations for joining LGBTQ+ sports associations. Data suggested that older LGB adults still perceived PA and sports contexts as characterized by double stigma. Parallelly, results showed that belonging to LGBTQ+ sports associations and being an activist boosts motivation to participate, fostering socialization and promoting healthy aging. Considering the invisibility that older LGB+ people live in sports-related contexts, it is essential to recognize the critical role LGBTQ+ associations and communities play in supporting the well-being and healthy aging of this marginalized group.

ABSTRACT No information is available on the validation of the Jefferson Scale of Attitudes Toward Interprofessional Collaboration in Spanish (JeffSATIC-S). Few studies have examined attitudes toward collaborative work among medical residents, and research focusing specifically on medical residents in Mexico is currently absent. We evaluated the validity and reliability of the JeffSATIC-S. We then examined attitudes toward interprofessional collaboration among medical residents and their associations with empathy, personality traits – including covert narcissism – and affective – cognitive dysregulation. All medical residents at a public tertiary care teaching hospital were invited to participate in the survey; 213 completed the anonymous online questionnaire (77% response rate). Exploratory factor and reliability analyses were performed. Partial Spearman’s correlation coefficients (rs) were calculated, adjusting for sex, age, specialty, and year of residence. The factor structure resembled the original instrument. Cronbach’s alpha was 0.90 for working relationships and 0.73 for accountability. Empathy was significantly and positively correlated with the two domains (working relationships: rs = 0.557; accountability: rs = 0.495; p < .001). In contrast, aggression – hostility (rs = −0.212 and −0.241, respectively; p < .001) and affective – cognitive dysregulation (rs=−0.328 and −0.347, respectively; p <0.001) were significantly negatively correlated. Covert narcissism, impulsive sensation seeking, and neuroticism-anxiety were significantly and negatively linked to accountability, but not to working relationships. The JeffSATIC-S is valid and reliable. Individual factors influence teamwork attitudes in different ways: some affect both working relationships and accountability, whereas others affect only the latter. Medical educators should anticipate interpersonal variability when designing training to enhance attitudes toward interprofessional collaboration. At the organizational level, teamwork-supportive cultures and learning environments should benefit all learners while accommodating additional support when needed.

Introduction: Palliative care is a fundamental field within nursing, yet it poses an emotional challenge for many students in training. It is therefore essential to consider the role of affective variables in the caregiving process, such as empathic competencies and expressed attitudes toward death. Objective: To examine the structural relationships between medical empathy and attitudes toward death among nursing students, identifying the most influential variables, their clusters, and the stability of their interconnections. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey study was conducted with a sample of 354 adult nursing students (276 women) who were doing professional internships in palliative care. The Jefferson Scale of Empathy – Student Version (JSE-S) and the Revised Death Attitude Profile (DAP-R) were used. Data were analyzed using psychological network analysis, with 5,000 bootstrap samples to assess metric stability, and Spearman’s coefficient was applied to examine the structure of correlations. Results: The empathic dimension of compassionate care was negatively associated with the tendency to avoid death (ρ = -0.218, p &lt; 0.001) or escape (ρ = -0.252, p &lt; 0.001) when reflecting on patients’ deaths, while perspective taking emerged as the most stable variable within the network structure. Both empathic dimensions were positively related to neutral acceptance of death (p &lt; 0.001). Conclusion: Clinical empathy generates less polarization toward patient death in nursing students; their professionalization requires training in emotional skills that impact the quality of their care.

Healthcare Workers' Pain Beliefs and Attitudes Towards Patients with Chronic Pain.

Objectives: To assess public knowledge, attitudes, and disposal practices for unused/expired medicines and to identify preferred channels for improving community awareness. Methods: A community-based, cross-sectional survey was conducted using a pre-tested, structured questionnaire (18 items). The minimum sample size was estimated using a single-proportion approach with relative precision (α=0.05; p=0.774; ε=0.05), yielding n=449; ultimately, 472 respondents completed the survey. Descriptive statistics were reported as frequencies and percentages. Results: Most respondents believed expired medicines become toxic (64.6%) and routinely checked expiry dates before purchase or use (94.3%). Despite this awareness, only 2.3% reported following a recommended disposal method, whereas 94.5% did not. Disposal in household trash was the most common practice (60.6%), whereas 2.1% reported flushing medicines in a toilet or sink. Although 95.8% reported storing expired medicines separately, 68.9% did not remove personal information from packaging before disposal. Responsibility for safe disposal was perceived as shared between government and healthcare personnel (83.5%). Awareness of formal take-back programs was limited (37.7%), yet willingness to participate was high (77.0%). Internet-based platforms were the most preferred route for education (79.9%), followed by electronic media (58.1%) and pharmacists (48.1%). Conclusion: The community demonstrates good awareness of expiry-related risks but exhibits major gaps in safe disposal behaviors and program awareness. The high willingness to join take-back initiatives indicates the feasibility of community–pharmacy–government partnerships. Targeted risk communication, clear disposal guidance at dispensing points, and accessible take-back options are urgently needed to mitigate this public health and environmental issue.

Access online courses, and they can be studied anywhere, anytime. The Thai government supports the use of Thai MOOC (Massive Open Online Courses) as part of Thailand’s 20-year national strategy to build competitiveness, emphasizing new ways of learning by creating the Thai MOOC Open Learning Service. This platform provides useful information to all users for accessing learning in their fields of interest. Thai MOOC offers a safe environment for individuals from diverse backgrounds to acquire valuable knowledge. This model benefits Thai MOOC by providing a system that offers a clearer picture of overall users, including the Thai Cyber University and lectures within the Thai MOOC system. Data collection and analysis employed a mixed-method approach. Qualitative research involved 21 experts in Thai MOOC, with expert consensus achieved through the rough set Delphi approach. Quantitative research gathered data from 800 actual Thai MOOC users. The analysis utilized both descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The results identified seven key factors: 1) Knowledge Sharing, 2) Thai MOOC Features, 3) Motivation and Usage, 4) Perceived Usefulness, 5) Perceived Ease of Use, 6) Attitude Toward Use, and 7) Actual Use. These factors are essential for Thai MOOC developers to understand user attitudes and improve the platform accordingly.

Behind Closed Doors, in Public View: Attitudes Toward Elder Family Financial Exploitation Based on Social Media

Background/Objectives: Sociocultural attitudes toward appearance and body image are important components of women's psychological well-being, particularly in the context of physical activities involving body exposure, such as pole dance. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to compare body image and sociocultural attitudes toward appearance between women practicing pole dance and women not engaged in this activity, and to examine the associations between these variables. Methods: The study included 207 women practicing pole dance (PDG) in clubs and schools across Poland and 180 women not practicing this discipline, who served as the control group (CG). Data were collected using the CAWI (Computer-Assisted Web Interview) method with a proprietary questionnaire and standardized tools: the Sociocultural Attitudes Towards Appearance Questionnaire 3 (SATAQ 3) and the Body Esteem Scale (BES). Results: Women practicing pole dance had lower mean BMI and were less frequently overweight but more frequently underweight compared to the control group. They obtained significantly higher scores on the Internalization-Pressure and Internalization-Athlete scales of the SATAQ 3. Significant between-group differences in body image were observed only for the Physical Condition subscale of the BES, with higher scores in the pole dance group. Significant negative correlations were identified between sociocultural attitudes toward appearance and body image in both groups, with stronger associations observed among women practicing pole dance. Conclusions: Participation in pole dance was associated with higher self-evaluation of physical condition as well as stronger internalization of sociocultural appearance norms. Due to the cross-sectional design, the findings indicate associations rather than causal relationships. The results underline the importance of preventive and educational strategies promoting a functional rather than exclusively esthetic approach to the body.

Postpartum women experience significant emotional and psychological challenges that may lead to depressive symptoms. Adequate emotional support and access to professional care are essential for their well-being. Acknowledging that partner support and help-seeking attitudes play a role in how women cope with postpartum distress, this study employed a correlational, cross-sectional design to examine the relationships among depressive symptoms, perceived partner support, and attitudes toward seeking professional help. Participants were Filipino women aged 20-45 years old, within six months postpartum, cohabiting with their partner for at least one year, regardless of marital and employment status. 52.5% participated through onsite data collection in various health centers and hospitals, while 47.5% participated online. Standardized tools were utilized, including the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EDPS), Postpartum Partner Support Scale (PPSS), and Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help-Short Form (ATSPPHS-SF). Findings revealed high levels of depressive symptoms, moderate perceived partner support and moderately positive attitudes toward seeking professional help. A positive correlation was found between depressive symptoms and perceived partner support. These findings highlight public health concerns due to the severity of depressive symptoms and the presence of self-harm ideation. Corresponding recommendations are presented within the study.

Mobile health (mHealth) apps are widely available, and some have proven safe and effective for management of specific chronic conditions. Despite a high degree of interest, the potential of these technologies has yet to be realized. Patient and clinician attitudes are key factors that influence the adoption of mHealth apps but remain poorly understood, particularly in the United States. This study aimed to identify both patient and clinician attitudes that can influence recommending and adopting mHealth apps. Using well-established technology adoption and implementation science frameworks, this study included a deductive content analysis using a rapid qualitative analytic method. Semistructured interviews were conducted with patients and clinicians to identify technical and material, social and personal, and policy and organizational factors that can influence the recommendation or adoption of mHealth apps. The interviews and data analysis were performed between September 2023 and August 2024. Participants included 20 clinicians (n=12, 60% general internists) with a mean time in practice of 17 (SD 11.6) years, and 28 patients with a mean age of 59 (SD 12.1) years. A total of 7 categories related to patients' and clinicians' attitudes toward mHealth apps emerged: (1) apps as tools to improve health by extending care, (2) the role of apps in enhancing the patient-clinician relationship, (3) the need for simplicity and efficiency in app design, (4) the influence of prior experience with mHealth apps, (5) comfort with technology, (6) recommendations from trusted sources, and (7) education and hands-on experience. Although similar factors were considered by patients and clinicians, their views about older adults' interest and ability to use mHealth apps differed. Understanding patient and clinician views about mHealth apps provides critical insights for developing approaches to facilitate their use. These findings suggest patients and clinicians share similar views about the benefits of mHealth apps. Nonetheless, clinicians' perceptions about older patients' interest and ability to use mHealth apps may negatively impact recommendation of mHealth apps and subsequent adoption by older adults.

This descriptive cross-sectional study aimed to examine the association between health anxiety, attitudes toward menopause, and sexual function in menopausal women. The participants' mean total scores were 38.67 ± 11.16 for the Attitudes Toward Menopause Scale (ATMS), 21.12 ± 6.63 for the Short Health Anxiety Inventory (SHAI-18), and 15.01 ± 5.50 for the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI-6). A negative correlation was found between ATMS scores and both SHAI-18 and its "Bodily Symptom Hypersensitivity" subscale (p<0.05). Additionally, a negative association was observed between SHAI-18 and FSFI-6 scores (p<0.05). Regression analysis revealed that ATMS had a statistically significant effect on SHAI-18 (p<0.001), with a 1-point increase in SHAI-18 associated with a 0.160-point decrease in ATMS scores. Furthermore, ATMS scores were found to explain 7% of the observed differences in SHAI-18 scores. In conclusion, increased health anxiety in menopausal women negatively affects their attitudes toward menopause, leading to psychosexual difficulties.

This study examines an inclusive education course’s impact on 111 Arab-Israeli preservice teachers’ attitudes and practices. Given the limited research on this population, it addresses a gap in understanding how cultural context influences teacher preparation. Grounded in the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), the research investigates how attitudes influence inclusive practice intentions. Results reveal significant positive attitude shifts toward inclusion and diversified teaching methods. Participants prioritized academic and behavioral domains, indicating a nuanced understanding. This study contributes to research on Arab-Israeli preservice teachers’ inclusive education responses, offering insights for teacher preparation.

To determine nurses' level of knowledge and attitudes toward medical device-related pressure injuries (MDRPIs). This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in a university hospital between April and July 2024. Data were collected using the Nurse Descriptive Characteristics Form, Medical Device Associated Pressure Injury Knowledge Scale, and Attitude Scale for Prevention of Medical Device Associated Pressure Injury. The mean MDRPI knowledge score of the nurses was 13.37 ± 2.7 (maximum, 19), and the mean MDRPI attitude score was 46.0 ± 6.4 (maximum, 55). The findings revealed a significant correlation between the mean age and working experience, the unit in which they worked, the setting where they received MDRPI training, and MDRPI knowledge levels. A significant relationship was also observed between the nurses' MDRPI reporting status, pressure injury and MDRPI training status, MDRPI total knowledge score, and attitude levels. The study findings revealed that nurses exhibited low levels of knowledge regarding MDRPI and a favorable attitude toward MDRPI prevention and care behaviors. In light of these findings, the authors recommend that institutional administrators integrate MDRPI training into in-service training programs and that MDRPI education be incorporated into the nursing programs. Further studies should be conducted with different sample groups.

Pressure ulcers (PUs) (also termed pressure injuries [PIs]) remain a major patient safety issue, particularly in critical care and other high-risk healthcare settings. Nurses are central to PUs/PIs prevention; however, deficiencies in knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices among nursing staff may negatively affect patient outcomes. To systematically synthesise global evidence on nurses' knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to PUs/PIs prevention, and to identify factors influencing preventive performance. A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Electronic databases including PubMed, CINAHL, EBSCO, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Springer were searched for studies published between 2011 and 2025. Eligible studies were primary research articles examining registered nurses' knowledge, attitudes, and/or practices regarding PUs/PIs prevention, using cross-sectional, observational, or non-experimental designs. Data extraction focused on study characteristics, settings, samples, assessment instruments, and key outcomes related to knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices. Due to methodological heterogeneity, a narrative synthesis was performed. Twenty-nine studies from diverse geographical regions were included, with sample sizes ranging from 28 to 950 nurses. Overall, nurses' knowledge of PUs/PIs prevention was frequently inadequate, particularly in prevention-specific domains. In contrast, attitudes toward prevention were generally positive across studies. Preventive practices, however, were often suboptimal. Commonly reported barriers included staff shortages, high workload, limited resources, and insufficient institutional support. Higher educational attainment, specialised clinical experience, recent training, and professional seniority were consistently associated with better knowledge, more positive attitudes, and improved preventive practices. Although nurses generally demonstrate positive attitudes toward PUs/PIs prevention, persistent gaps in knowledge and practice remain. These findings underscore the need for structured education programmes, simulation-based training, and strengthened organisational support to enhance adherence to evidence-based prevention strategies. Future research should employ experimental and longitudinal designs, standardised measurement tools, and broader international representation to support sustainable improvements in PUs/PIs prevention and patient safety.

Prone cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) emerges as a vital and lifesaving intervention for patients positioned prone with an advanced airway in intensive care, emergency or surgical settings. Prone position CPR is recommended for patients in intensive care, emergency departments or surgical settings who are already positioned prone with an advanced airway. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitudes of critical care and emergency nurses regarding the practice of prone cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), with the goal of identifying educational gaps and informing future training strategies. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among randomly selected nurses working in emergency departments, critical care units and intensive care units in Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire distributed through an electronic form. The survey included demographic details, a 20-question knowledge assessment (scored as excellent [75%-100%], good [50%-74%] or poor [< 50%]), and a 15-item Likert scale attitude assessment (scored 1-5, reverse-coded for negative statements). A total of 192 nurses participated in the study, yielding a 90% response rate. Among the respondents, 78.1% were female. Overall knowledge of prone CPR was poor (5.93 ± 2.37), with 91.7% of respondents demonstrating inadequate knowledge (< 10 correct answers). Knowledge was highest in relation to dysrhythmia medications (40.36 ± 36.16) and supine CPR quality (35.68 ± 33.40), and lowest regarding chest compression techniques and hand placement during prone CPR (24.91 ± 18.53). Attitudes were moderately favourable (45.01 ± 4.60). A statistically significant but weak positive correlation was observed between knowledge and attitudes (r = 0.222, p = 0.002). The findings indicate that nurses possess insufficient knowledge but moderately favourable attitudes toward prone CPR. These results underscore the urgent need for targeted, hands-on training interventions, particularly those that incorporate simulation-based scenarios involving prone resuscitation. Integration of prone CPR into certified training and continuing education programmes may enhance the competence and preparedness of critical care nurses. Clinically, the technique supports effective circulation and airway management in prone patients, with potential implications for improved survival outcomes.

The study investigates the influence of Web 2.0 tools training on instructors and the teaching process. Twenty-three instructors teaching Turkish as a foreign language received six weeks of technopedagogical training. The “Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge Scale (TPACK)” and the “Attitude Toward Technology Scale” were administered as pre-test and post-tests. The instructors’ TPACK competencies improved, while no significant change was found in their attitudes toward technology. A semi-structured interview revealed that instructors learned to integrate Web 2.0 tools effectively and wanted to use them as alternative materials. To determine the influence of the training on the teaching process, four instructors voluntarily participated in an observation process. Each instructor was observed for three weeks, totaling twelve weeks. Lessons were video-recorded to analyze how instructors applied their training knowledge and skills in the classroom. Observations showed that the instructors effectively utilized Web 2.0 tools to enhance students’ language skills, grammar, and vocabulary.

Background: Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to manage acute or moderate-to-severe musculoskeletal pain. Physical Therapists (PTs) are involved in patient management from early on, providing education and advice related to medication use. This study aimed to examine Saudi PTs' practice patterns and attitudes toward NSAID use and to identify factors associated with key practice outcomes by discussing NSAID use, assessing contraindications, monitoring side effects, and documenting discussions. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between February and June 2025. A total of 371 PTs (52.3% male) from all regions of the country participated. Data were collected using an expert-reviewed and pilot-tested self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression were used to analyze the data. Qualitative responses to an open-ended question were analyzed thematically. Results: Over half of PTs (59%) reported frequently discussing NSAID use with patients, particularly over-the-counter topical or oral formulations. Nearly half (48.0%) reported the absence of a formal institutional policy on NSAID discussions, while only 14.6% reported the presence of such policies. Safety practices were inconsistently applied: 46% reported screening for contraindications and 29% monitored potential long-term adverse effects (p < 0.001). Greater involvement in NSAID-related practices was associated with male gender, longer clinical experience, and specialist qualifications. Although 38% supported granting PTs hypothetical prescribing authority, 62% believed they lack adequate knowledge to provide safe and evidence-based medication advice. Conclusions: The study highlights the need for improved pharmacology education, clear national guidelines, and enhanced interprofessional collaboration to promote safe and consistent NSAID use in musculoskeletal care.

ABSTRACT To assess the effects of participation in the Community Action Poverty Simulation (CAPS) on empathy and attitudes about poverty in undergraduate nursing, public health, and healthcare administration students and personnel attending a mid-sized southern regional university. Design: A quasi-experimental pretest – posttest evaluation of changes in empathy and attitudes about poverty after an experiential learning intervention. Participants (N = 447) completed pre- and post- validated surveys, including the Kiersma-Chen Empathy Scale and the Attitudes Toward Poverty Short Form, and data were subjected to descriptive and paired analyses (paired t tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests) to identify significant within-subject changes. Thematic analysis was performed on open-ended responses. Post simulation empathy scores increased significantly (p < .001). Changes in overall attitudes about poverty reached statistical significance in the first simulation. Qualitative themes included enhanced empathy, increased awareness of barriers, and critical reflection about personal biases. Simulation-based experiential learning activities can effectively and efficiently increase empathy and critically reflect on poverty in future health care providers. The study’s findings highlight the value of incorporating structured and facilitated CAPS into nursing and health sciences curricula. Simulation-based learning focused on empathy and social determinants of health can prepare community health nurses and other health professionals to interact with economically marginalized patients with increased sensitivity to structural limitations, decreased focus on deficiencies, and enhanced respectful, patient-centered dialogue.