Convenience Sample Research Articles

Current Practice Patterns in the Management of Bell's Palsy Among Physiotherapists of Sargodha, Pakistan

Objectives: We intend to find out current practice patterns in managing Bell’s palsy among the physiotherapists of Sargodha, Pakistan. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to August 2022. Data were obtained from 50 physiotherapists working in various clinical settings of Sargodha with more than 2 years of clinical experience. They were selected using convenient sampling. A self-designed questionnaire was used to gather all necessary information regarding the physical therapy practice patterns of Bell’s palsy. The obtained data were analyzed by using SPSS software, version 20. Results: Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) was the preferred (42%) neurodevelopmental technique used in current practice patterns to manage Bell’s palsy. The most used therapeutic exercises by the physiotherapists were facial expression coordination exercises (66%). Also, 44% of physiotherapists used electrical muscle stimulation as the preferred electrotherapeutic modality in their current practice. Soft tissue release (54%) was the most preferred manual therapy technique in Bell’s palsy patients. The combination of electrical muscle stimulation, facial exercises, and biofeedback was the most used (54%) among physiotherapists. Discussion: Current practice for Bell’s palsy treatment includes PNF techniques, facial expression coordination exercises, soft tissue release, and electrical muscle stimulation by most physiotherapists in Sargodha. The most preferred combination was facial exercises, electrical stimulation, and biofeedback.

Effects of Myofascial Release on the Pain and Quality of Life in Patients with Fibromyalgia

Objectives: To investigate the effects of myofascial release technique on pain and quality of life (QoL) in patients with fibromyalgia (FM). Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted to investigate the effects of myofascial release technique on patients with FM in Shalamar Hospital Lahore, Pakistan. After initial screening, 28 patients aged 25 to 45 years of both genders meeting the predetermined inclusion criteria were selected using convenience sampling. They were divided into two groups. Group A was treated with myofascial release therapy and passive stretching, while group B was treated with passive stretching alone. The McGill pain questionnaire (MPQ) was used to assess the pain, and the revised FM impact questionnaire (FIQR) was used to evaluate QoL. Results: Out of 28 participants, 11(39.3%) were male and 17(60.7%) were females. Pre- and post-treatment mean scores of pain rating index on MPQ were 46.76±10.47 and 23.79±7.43 for the experimental group and 43.36±12.7 and 30.0±9.89 for the control group, respectively (P>0.05). Mean pre- and post-treatment FIQR scores were 52.9±13.6 and 33.02±13.75 for the experimental group and 57.77±23.04 and 46.59±19.37 for the control group, respectively. The difference in the means of post-treatment scores of the two groups for FIQR was significant (P=0.042). Discussion: Compared with passive stretching alone, the myofascial release method for FM did not demonstrate significant improvement in alleviating pain among such patients. However, it is remarkable that myofascial release therapy unveiled a positive impact by improving the overall QoL for FM patients.

Assessing awareness of danger signs of pregnancy and its associated factors among pregnant women in Libya: A cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe maternal mortality rate in Libya surpasses the regional average and is primarily due to sepsis, hemorrhages, hypertension and other factors, highlighting gaps in maternal knowledge and access to quality care. This study aimed to assess the awareness of obstetric danger signs and associated factors among pregnant women attending the outpatient clinic of Tobruk Medical Center, Libya. MethodsAn institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from August to October 2023, involving 301 pregnant women visiting the outpatient clinic. Convenience sampling was utilized, and data was collected using structured questionnaires. Data was initially stored in Excel and then imported into R (version 4.3.1) for analysis. Descriptive statistics were applied to both categorical and continuous variables. Logistic regression was used to study the association between awareness of danger signs and socio-demographic variables, with p-values calculated and multivariate analysis performed to adjust for confounding factors. ResultsResults revealed that 79.4% (239) of the pregnant women had awareness about danger signs. Additionally, the most cited danger signs were “fatigue” (41.5%) and “severe headache” (23.3%), whereas the least common one was “sudden gush of fluids” (10.6%). Marital status was found to be an independent predictor of knowledge about pregnancy danger signs, whereby married women were more likely to have awareness than divorced women (AOR:0.16, CI: 0.04–0.71, P-value: 0.016). ConclusionTo improve maternal healthcare, ANC units should focus on educating patients about under-recognized signs and encourage peer discussions through social media. These steps aim to enhance preparedness and reduce pregnancy-related complications.

Impact of Physical Exercise to Reduce the Risk of Gestational Hypertension, A Role of Leptin and Adiponectin

Objective: To investigate the effect of exercise on the blood pressure of new-onset hypertension and non-hypertensive pregnant women and to determine the serum leptin and adiponectin levels and their response to exercise. Methodology: This quasi-experimental cross-over study was conducted at the Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Hayatabad Medical Complex Peshawar. Samples were processed and analyzed at Khyber Girls Medical College Peshawar from January 2022 to April 2022. A total of 140 pregnant females were recruited for this study through convenience sampling. Out of this total, 70 were normotensive for the control group and 70 were hypertensive (gestational hypertensive). All participants were included after taking an informed consent. Results: In normotensive pregnant women, mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure remained normal, and no hypertension developed. In gestational hypertensive women, 70% responded significantly to physical exercise. Post-exercise, Group A saw decreases in systolic BP , diastolic BP , and leptin levels, with an increase in adiponectin. Group B exhibited more pronounced changes by decreased systolic BP, diastolic BP, leptin, and increased adiponectin. Conclusions: We observed that recommended physical exercise during pregnancy is safe and beneficial for maternal health in pregnancy. Physical exercise significantly reduced the progression of GH and brought the serum leptin and adiponectin levels toward normal range. Therefore, physical activity should be encouraged in every healthy woman after addressing potential barriers to exercise during pregnancy. Keywords: Gestational hypertension, Exercise, Leptin, Adiponectin

Hypertension Risk Perception among Young Adults in Victoria University Kampala Uganda

IntroductionGlobally, hypertension is becoming a more serious public health concern, with young adults also at risk. Effective intervention techniques require an understanding of young adults' perceptions of the risk factors, enablers, and barriers to adopting healthy lifestyle choices related to hypertension. This research aims to examine hypertension risk perception among young adults at Victoria University Kampala, Uganda. MethodsData were gathered using a structured questionnaire between November 2023 and January 2024. Convenience sampling was used to gather data from young adults at Victoria University Kampala, Uganda. Leslie Kish's formula was used to establish the sample size of 126 respondents. Multiple regression analysis was performed to examine the association between independent variables (barriers, and facilitators) and the dependent variable (perception of hypertension risk). ResultsThe study found that perceptions of certain risk factors, such as smoking (OR = 2.418, p = 0.035), physical inactivity (OR = 1.731, p = 0.008), unhealthy diet (OR = 2.174, p = 0.048), and chronic stress (OR = 1.514, p = 0.028), significantly influenced the likelihood of adopting healthy lifestyle choices. Among the enablers, motivation (OR = 3.491, p = 0.005), availability of time (OR = 3.015, p = 0.011), financial resources (OR = 2.164, p = 0.017), and social support (OR = 2.014, p = 0.026) were strong predictors of healthy behaviour adoption. ConclusionPrograms aimed at raising awareness of hypertension risk factors and enhancing enablers such as motivation, time management, and social support are recommended to effectively promote healthy behaviours among this population.

The relationship between fear of negative evaluation, physical activity, eating behavior and psychological distress among nursing students.

The aim of this research is to explore the interrelationships between different psychological issues and the potential role of eating behavior and physical activity among nursing students. Undergraduate nursing students (n = 892) from some medical universities in China were recruited through convenience and snowball sampling methods using online platforms. Participants completed measures on demographics, fear of negative evaluation (FNE), social avoidance and distress (SAD), psychological distress (DASS), disordered eating behavior (TFEQ) and physical activity. The relationship models among the aforementioned variables were established using Process 3.5. A total of 290 males and 602 females were included in this study. The average FNE score of students was (39.44 ± 8.78), SAD was (13.83 ± 7.06), DASS was (22.45 ± 20.47), and TFEQ was (56.09 ± 12.57), respectively. TFEQ and SAD independently and jointly acted as mediators in the relationship between FNE and DASS. Physical activity played a moderating role, with the interaction effect between FNE and groups Q2, Q3, and Q4 determined to be 0.407 (95%CI 0.136 to 0.678), 0.328 (95%CI 0.061 to 0.596) and 0.332 (95%CI 0.073 to 0.591), respectively. This study supports that disordered eating behaviors have a negative impact on mechanisms of psychological changes, and enhancing physical activity is an effective prevention strategy for psychological distress and disordered eating behaviors among nursing students.

Evaluation of Preceding Variables Affecting Behavioral Use and Acceptance of Chord-Enabled Keyboard Among Students

For years, chord-enabled keyboards’ usage has stayed behind its famous counterpart, the standard QWERTY design. Recent trends in this type of keyboard prompted its usage among social media platforms focusing on productivity and efficiency. However, few studies have evaluated its acceptance and consumer usage behavior – especially in the current generation. To fill this gap, this study aimed to examine the factors that affect the acceptance and adoption of chord-enabled keyboards through Random Forest Classifier and Neural Network ensemble. Nine thousand nine hundred (9,900) data points were considered through the convenience sampling method utilizing online platforms. The results displayed that all the examined latent variables were deemed significant: Performance Expectancy, Effort Expectancy, Social Influence, Hedonic Motivation, Facilitating Conditions, Price Value, Habit, Intention to Use, Usage Behavior, and Perceived Usability. Among all these, usage behavior was identified as the most influential variable affecting the acceptance of chord-enabled keyboards. Users are more likely to utilize chord-enabled keyboards due to their perception of increasing productivity in accomplishing their tasks quickly, efficiently, and comfortably in the face of multiple typing tasks. Moreover, the variables of Effort Expectancy and Facilitating Conditions were also considered significant but less influential among all latent variables – due to difficulty on adoption. The results shed light on the factors influencing chord-enabled keyboard acceptance. With this, keyboard manufacturers can utilize the results to improve the acceptance and adoption of chord-enabled keyboards to improve individuals' typing efficiency and productivity, which can be extended for promotion in different countries.

Assessment of knowledge, perception, and readiness for telepharmacy-assisted pharmaceutical services among young pharmacists in rural Indonesia

BackgroundThe implementation of telepharmacy technology has expanded significantly, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, to ensure continuous pharmaceutical care services. This practice is vital in rural and underserved areas where access to healthcare is limited. ObjectiveThis study aims to assess the knowledge, perception, and readiness of young pharmacists in rural Indonesia towards telepharmacy-assisted pharmaceutical services. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted from January to July 2023 in rural areas of Java, Sumatra, and Kalimantan, Indonesia. A convenience sampling method was employed with the aim of recruiting 520 registered pharmacists under 35 years of age (23–34 years old). Data were collected using an online questionnaire adapted for the local context and analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. ResultsThe study achieved an 86.67 % response rate. Most participants were female (73.1 %) and aged between 26 and 30 years (53.8 %). Nearly all pharmacists (97.1 %) held a Pharm.D degree. The knowledge assessment showed high awareness of telepharmacy's importance and its role during the COVID-19 pandemic, with 96.15 % recognizing the need for a strong internet connection. Positive perception was noted, with 90.38 % agreeing that telepharmacy enhances medication access in rural areas. However, concerns about increased error rates and workload were highlighted. A substantial proportion of pharmacists expressed readiness for conducting drug counselling via video consultation (44.23 %) and showed a willingness to undergo relevant training (59.62 %). ConclusionYoung pharmacists in rural Indonesia demonstrate a good level of knowledge and generally positive perceptions about telepharmacy, with notable readiness among pharmacists with less than five years of experience. While there is notable willingness to engage in telepharmacy practices and training, addressing concerns about workload and data security through targeted support and training will be crucial for the successful implementation of telepharmacy, potentially enhancing healthcare access in rural areas.

Nurse Managers' Perceptions of Family and Community Nurse Practitioners Joining Primary Care Teams in Spain: A Qualitative Study.

The aim of this study was to explore and describe nurse managers' perceptions of family and community nurse practitioners' impact on primary care teams and public health. A descriptive qualitative study was carried out. The participants were recruited by means of convenience sampling during the months of April and May 2023. 20 nurse managers from different autonomous communities in Spain were interviewed. The data were analyzed following a thematic analysis method using ATLAS.ti nine software. Two main themes and sub-themes were drawn from the data analysis: (1) Nurse managers' view of primary care: (a) The driving force of primary care and (b) Resistance to the integration of family and community nurse practitioners; (2) Proposals for improvement in light of the Family and Community Nurse Practitioner's unique situation. These specialists are highly qualified professionals in primary care teams, whose expertise is evident in how they deliver community and health education activities, empower patients, and lead the training of new specialists.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Oral Health among The Local Population of Lahore

Objective: To assess oral health-related awareness of knowledge, attitudes, and practices among the local population in Lahore. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted over six months with a sample of 345 individuals (139 males, 206 females) using a convenience sampling technique. Aself-administered questionnaire comprised 17 questions divided into five parameters: self-perception, knowledge, attitudes, practices, and eating habits. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the results. Results: The study revealed that most of the participants(46%) had satisfactory self-perception of oral health. The assessment of knowledge of oral health stated that 315 individuals(91.3%) were aware of the prevention of caries through teeth brushing. The practices of individuals showed that 238(69%) of them brushed their teeth twice a day. Atotal of 206(59.7%) participants used mouthwash as an additional oral cleaning aid. 189(54.8%) individuals consumed sweetened foods and drinks daily. Conclusion: The awareness related to oral health knowledge and attitude in the local population of Lahore was considered to be adequate. Individual practices however do not reflect this knowledge as unhealthy lifestyle still prevailed. Keywords: Attitude, Knowledge, Oral hygiene, Practice

Effect of mindfulness training program on well-being and leadership skills of psychiatric nurses

BackgroundNursing leaders need mindfulness, which is an effective intervention for reducing stress, promoting well-being, and enhancing their leadership skills. PurposeTo explore the effect of a mindfulness training program on the well-being and leadership skills of head nurses. MethodsA quasi-study design was used and conducted in a psychiatric and neurological university hospital on a convenience sample of 40 head nurses. Using the cognitive and affective mindfulness scale, the mindful attention awareness scale, the leadership skills questionnaire, and the mindfulness program. FindingsThe findings resulted in a significant difference in the effect of the mindfulness program before and after training when applied to leadership skills, especially conceptual and administrative skills. DiscussionManagers must adopt a mindfulness program, integrate it into nursing intervention protocols, and circulate it to all nursing staff because it has a noticeable impact if it is practiced seriously and its results are benefited from.

Effects of Mobile Messaging Applications on Writing Skill

As technology rapidly advances, integrating new tools into teaching becomes increasingly essential. Mobile phone applications are widely used in education, yet WhatsApp remains underutilized in language instruction. This study aims to explore the impact of WhatsApp on university students' writing skills. Forty international students were selected through convenience sampling to participate in a single-group pre-test post-test design, where they responded to specific writing prompts. Their writing samples were evaluated using a standardized rubric, and the pre-test and post-test scores were analyzed with SPSS using a paired sample t-test. The findings indicate a significant positive correlation between students' frequency of WhatsApp use and their writing improvement. Additionally, providing examples of writing by the teacher or students in the WhatsApp group contributed to better writing outcomes. The study concludes that WhatsApp, through writing exercises and group vocabulary practice, positively influences students' writing abilities. Furthermore, the use of messaging apps enhances participation, interaction, collaboration, and overall language proficiency. These results underscore the potential of WhatsApp as an effective tool for language instruction in higher education. Ultimately, the study highlights the need for educators and curriculum designers to embrace mobile technologies like WhatsApp to foster improved writing skills and enhance student engagement in language learning contexts.

Risk analysis of adolescent sexual activity in college Surabaya, Indonesia: cross-sectional study

Adolescence is characterized by active sexual hormones that can lead to sexual urges with the opposite sex. These urges, in turn, may trigger risky sexual behavior. College students, in a transitional period from adolescence to early adulthood, exhibit diversity in addressing sexual activity. This research aimed to analyze the risks associated with adolescent sexual activity in a college in Surabaya, Indonesia. The study utilizes a cross-sectional design with accidental sampling of active students aged 18-24 years. The total number of participants in this study was 221 people who filled out a questionnaire in the form of a Google Form, distributed through social media. The results show that, among all the factors identified, dating status has a significant relationship with PR 11.688 (95%CI 5.048-27.061) in engaging in risky sexual activities among adolescents. Reproductive health education at the university level is needed to reduce risky sexual activities among students.

Food Safety Awareness and Practices of Street Food Vendors in Selected Barangays of Marawi City

The study delved on identifying vendors’ level of awareness towards food safety and practices on proper food handling. The researcher made use of quantitative approach specifically the descriptive-correlative research design. The data were collected through the use of survey questionnaires distributed to the twenty-six vendors from the three selected barangays namely: Saduc Proper, Lilod Saduc, and Panggao-Saduc. The respondents were selected through convenience sampling. Specifically, this study sought to explore the demographic profiles of the respondents such as sex, highest educational attainment and attended seminar or training related to food safety and hygiene. It also identified the vendors’ level of awareness towards food safety and practices on proper food handling of street food. Lastly, it investigated the relationship between the demographic profiles of the respondents and the vendors’ level of awareness towards food safety. Using the convince sampling, the data were collected from twenty-six (26) sample size. Based on the findings, it was found out that most vendors were females and have low educational levels. It was also revealed that there were only few who have been to seminar/training related to food hygiene and safety. Furthermore, this study found out that respondents were very aware of many food safety practices such as keeping their preparation areas clean and using the right utensils. However, there was a need to improve some practices such as preheating sauces and serving food quickly. In terms of the relationship between the respondents’ demographic profile and their level of awareness on food safety, it resulted to negative moderate correlation between the demographic profile variables of gender, educational attainment, and seminars attended related to food safety and hygiene and the level of awareness among street food vendors on food safety practices. The researcher recommended that street food vendors must strictly observe safe food handling practices. They should be aware of the significance of these practices. In addition, they should attend seminar or training related to food safety and healthy food preparation practices to ensure a safer and healthier food environment for everyone’s health.

Adaptation and Validation of a Scale of Self-Regulation of Learning in Mathematical Problem Solving

[Objective] This work aims to adapt and validate a scale that measures the level of self-regulation in mathematical problem-solving contexts of teachers in initial training in primary education. [Methodology] For sample selection, non-probabilistic convenience or incidental sampling was used. A total of 269 first-year primary education undergraduate degree students at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) in the 2020–2021 academic year participated in the validation process of the adapted scale. The type of research conducted is descriptive. Data were analyzed using the SPSS statistical software. [Results] The Cronbach's alpha coefficient value of 0.884 revealed a consistent internal reliability. Likewise, to test the factor structure of the scale, an exploratory factor analysis was conducted, obtaining a Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) index of 0.836 > 0.7 and a p= 0.000<0.05 in the Bartlett test of sphericity. It also indicated a seven-factor structure: students' perceptions of their ability and how these perceptions influence self-regulation of the resolution process; ethics, problem-solving and personal growth; attitude towards the statement; negative self-efficacy beliefs; external causal attribution; problem-solving methods; and the social environment. [Conclusions] The latent structure provided by the exploratory factor analysis agrees with the classification of items established a priori and allows for the orientation of the confirmatory factor analysis that provides continuity to the research.

Assessing impact of organic farming for achieving sustainable agriculture development of Rajasthan: Structure equation remodeling

This study evaluates the impact of organic farming practices on achieving sustainable agriculture development in Rajasthan using Structural Equation Modeling with data from 285 respondents. Employing Smart-PLS for analysis, the research utilizes convenient sampling across three districts in Rajasthan to explore the relationships between key constructs. The study tests several hypotheses to understand how organic farming practices, farmers' perceptions, and attitudes toward organic farming contribute to sustainable agriculture development. Results reveal that organic farming practices and attitudes towards organic farming significantly impact sustainable agriculture development. At the same time, farmers' perceptions contribute positively but to a lesser extent. These findings underscore the importance of adopting organic farming practices and cultivating positive attitudes among farmers to foster sustainable agricultural practices in the region. The study provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to enhance sustainable agriculture in Rajasthan through targeted interventions and support for organic farming initiatives.

Personality traits, peer influence as a correlate of Nomophobic behaviour among undergraduate students in Obafemi Awolowo university, ILE-IFE, Nigeria.

The study investigated the prevalence of Nomophobic behaviour among undergraduate students of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria. It also ascertained the correlate of each of students’ psychosocial factors (personality traits and peer influence) and Nomophobic behaviour among undergraduates. It examined the correlates of students’ social factor (peer influence) and Nomophobic behaviour and ascertained the correlates of psychological factor (personality traits) and Nomophobic behaviour among students in the study area. These were with a view to providing information on psychosocial factors that have relationship with Nomophobic behaviour among the students. The study adopted the descriptive survey research design. The population for the study consisted of Obafemi Awolowo University undergraduate students. A sample of 1080 undergraduate students of Obafemi Awolowo University was selected using multi-stage sampling technique. Six faculties out of 13 were selected using simple random sampling technique and two departments were selected from each of the six faculties using simple random sampling technique to give a total of 12 departments in all. Convenient sampling technique was used to select 90 (100 level to 400/500 level) students from each of the two departments selected in each faculty to make a total of 1080 respondents in all. One instrument titled Psychosocial and Nomophobic Behaviour among Undergraduate Students which contained five sections; Section A comprised item on students’ Nomophobic behaviour, Section B, contained items on students’ personality traits, and Section C comprised items on peer influence, Data collected were analyzed using percentage, Pearson Product Moment Correlation and Multiple Regression analyses. The results showed that (83.8%) of the undergraduate students exhibited moderate level of Nomophobic behaviour. Furthermore, the results established that there was a significant relationship between each students’ personality traits and Nomophobic behaviour among the students (extraversion and Nomophobic behaviour r = 0.04, agreeableness and Nomophobic behaviour r = 0.12, conscientiousness and Nomophobic behaviour r = 0.13, neuroticism and Nomophobic behaviour r = 0.26 and openness to experience and Nomophobic behaviour r = -.01p-value< 0.05). The results also showed that there was significant relationship between peer influence and Nomophobic behaviour among the students with ([r =.18, p value< 0.05). The study concluded that peer influence had the strongest relationship with Nomophobic behaviour of university undergraduates in Obafemi Awolowo University, followed by personality traits, religiousity and depression respectively.

Anemia in Reproductive Age Group Women Attending in General Health Check-up in the Tertiary Care Centre in Kathmandu, Nepal: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study

Background: Anemia is common, particularly among women in Southeast Asia and other Asian countries. In reproductive-age women (15-49 years), increased demand without adequate supply often leads to deficiency. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of anemia in this group. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among women of reproductive age (15-49 years) visiting Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital August 1st 2024 to October 20th 2024, following ethical approval. Exclusions included those with chronic diseases, incomplete data, heavy menstrual loss, or pregnancy complications. A convenience sampling method was used, yielding 372 participants. Data were recorded in MS Excel and analyzed in SPSS. Results: Our study of 372 participants (mean age 35.39 ± 8.73 years) found that 22.8% were women aged 40-44 years. BMI analysis showed 43% were overweight, and 34.1% had normal BMI. Blood group distribution was 27.4% A+ and 28.8% B+, with A- being the least common (0.3%). Most participants (75.3%) were from the Hill region, and 71.8% were unmarried. Anemia prevalence was 24.46%, highest in the 45-49 age groups and lowest in the 20-24 groups. Anemia was more common in the underweight (44.44%) and very obese (50%) groups and most prevalent among Terai region women (35.59%). Conclusion: The study found a significant prevalence of anemia among women of reproductive age, with higher rates observed in specific age groups, BMI categories, and geographic regions. This highlights the need for targeted interventions to address anemia in vulnerable populations.

Narrative nursing for negative emotions in patients with acute pancreatitis: Based on model construction and application

BACKGROUND Acute pancreatitis (AP), as a common acute abdomen disease, has a high incidence rate worldwide and is often accompanied by severe complications. Negative emotions lead to increased secretion of stress hormones, elevated blood sugar levels, and enhanced insulin resistance, which in turn increases the risk of AP and significantly affects the patient's quality of life. Therefore, exploring the intervention effects of narrative nursing programs on the negative emotions of patients with AP is not only helpful in alleviating psychological stress and improving quality of life but also has significant implications for improving disease outcomes and prognosis. AIM To construct a narrative nursing model for negative emotions in patients with AP and verify its efficacy in application. METHODS Through Delphi expert consultation, a narrative nursing model for negative emotions in patients with AP was constructed. A non-randomized quasi-experimental study design was used in this study. A total of 92 patients with AP with negative emotions admitted to a tertiary hospital in Nantong City of Jiangsu Province, China from September 2022 to August 2023 were recruited by convenience sampling, among whom 46 patients admitted from September 2022 to February 2023 were included in the observation group, and 46 patients from March to August 2023 were selected as control group. The observation group received narrative nursing plan, while the control group was given with routine nursing. Self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), self-rating depression scale (SDS), positive and negative affect scale (PANAS), caring behavior scale, patient satisfaction scale and 36-item short form health survey questionnaire (SF-36) were used to evaluate their emotions, satisfaction and caring behaviors in the two groups on the day of discharge, 1-and 3-month following discharge. RESULTS According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 45 cases in the intervention group and 44 cases in the control group eventually recruited and completed in the study. On the day of discharge, the intervention group showed significantly lower scores of SAS, SDS and negative emotion (28.57 ± 4.52 vs 17.4 ± 4.44, P < 0.001), whereas evidently higher outcomes in the positive emotion score, Caring behavior scale score and satisfaction score compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Repeated measurement analysis of variance showed that significant between-group differences were found in time effect, inter-group effect and interaction effect of SAS and PANAS scores as well as in time effect and inter-group effect of SF-36 scores (P < 0.05); the SF-36 scores of two groups at 3 months after discharge were higher than those at 1 month after discharge (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION The application of narrative nursing protocols has demonstrated significant effectiveness in alleviating anxiety, ameliorating negative emotions, and enhancing satisfaction among patients with AP.

Clinical gerontological nursing competence among licensed practical nurses in healthcare services—A descriptive cross‐sectional study

AbstractAimThis study aimed to describe self‐assessed clinical gerontological nursing competence and its associated factors among licensed practical nurses.DesignA descriptive cross‐sectional design was adopted for the study.MethodsData were collected in Autumn 2023 from 394 licensed practical nurses working in healthcare services for older people in one well‐being services county in Finland. The nurses, recruited through convenience sampling, were surveyed using a 40‐item self‐assessment clinical gerontological nursing competence instrument (on a Likert scale from 1 = poor to 5 = excellent). Descriptive statistical methods were used to analyse the results.ResultsParticipants mainly assessed their clinical gerontological competence as good. Competence in using assistive devices to support functional ability was assessed as very good, while competence in postoperative wound care was assessed as the weakest. Participants working in 24‐h services assessed their competence as the weakest among the three clinical gerontological nursing areas. Participants under 40 years of age with 5–10 years of work experience self‐assessed statistically significantly stronger competence in disease‐specific nursing than those over 40 with less work experience.ConclusionThe self‐assessed competence of licensed practical nurses varies across different service and care units. Competence in wound care requires more focus and education in the future. Attention should also be paid to competence development in different educational areas, for example, through continuous education and competence development models. The results could facilitate licensed practical nurses' competence development and management in clinical gerontological nursing. The study's insights can also guide allocating resources and education to ensure high‐quality care in different service areas.