Convenience Survey Research Articles

Teaching medication administration through innovative simulation

Nurse educators are constantly seeking innovative ways to better prepare nursing students for clinical practice in the health care environment. One approach implemented by an associate degree program of nursing in southern Ohio is an automated medication dispensing system in the skills laboratory setting to evaluate first-year students' competency in administering medications. This self-report convenience survey evaluated the perceptions of 51 first semester nursing students following the implementation of a medication dispensing system in the skills laboratory prior to competency evaluation for medication administration. The authors' findings supported the use of the Demo Dose medDISPENSE automated medication dispensing system as a valuable teaching strategy because it reinforces the students' knowledge base of the six rights of medication administration and their confidence level. In addition, the potential for preventing medication errors by nursing students was discovered.

Use of psychotropic medications during pregnancy: perception of teratogenic risk among physicians in two Latin American countries

Pregnant women and their health care professionals commonly believe that use of medications during pregnancy may be harmful to the unborn fetus. The objective of this study was to evaluate the risk perception of psychotropic drug use in pregnancy among physicians in different medical specialties. This was a convenience survey conducted at outpatient clinics in the cities of Recife, Brazil, and La Plata, Bahía Blanca, and Buenos Aires, Argentina. Physicians who agreed to participate were asked to rate their perception of teratogenic risk among different classes of drugs, which included antidepressants, antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, and benzodiazepines. Two hundred and thirty-eight physicians completed the survey (response rate, 98%). These included psychiatrists, obstetricians, neurologists, cardiologists, gastroenterologists, and general practitioners. Among different specialties, a minority of psychiatrists perceived psychotropic drugs to be highly teratogenic (antidepressants, 12.5%; antipsychotics, 15%; benzodiazepines, 25%) as compared with other specialties (p < 0.003 for each drug class). There was no difference in perceived risk of antiepileptic drugs among specialties, including psychiatrists. The risk associated with use of psychotropic drugs in pregnancy was overestimated by physicians of all medical specialties, except psychiatry. All physicians should be aware of the safety/risk of psychotropic agents in pregnancy, as they may be required to give advice and/or prescribe these drugs to pregnant women.

Drivers of Customer Relationships in Quick-Service Restaurants

Quick-service restaurants (QSRs) face a particular challenge in creating customer relationships, given low levels of consumer brand loyalty and a standardized product that makes it difficult to developing a distinctive identity. One way that quick-service firms attempt to set themselves apart is through genuine, long-term corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts, in addition to the quality of their food, service, and overall restaurant environment. This article explores the extent to which customers’ perceptions of Chick-fil-A’s food, service, environment, and CSR affect the three dimensions of their relationship quality with that firm—namely, satisfaction, trust, and identification, based on convenience survey of 483 of the firm’s customers. With regard to the elements of a customer relationship, the analysis found that (1) awareness of CSR programs did not improve customer satisfaction but did boost identification and trust, (2) service quality supported trust and satisfaction but does not influence customers’ identification with the firm, and (3) food quality affects customer satisfaction but has no connection with trust or identification with the firm. Finally, customer satisfaction and trust were related to customer loyalty, but identification with the company was not connected with loyalty. These findings suggest that increasing customer satisfaction levels (or any short-term goal) should not be the primary objective of CSR programs in the QSR industry. Instead, it appears that CSR initiatives should involve a genuine long-term effort to build customers’ trust and identification.

Nigerian dentists' knowledge of aggressive periodontitis.

Objective:To assess the general knowledge of Nigerian dentists on aggressive periodontitis (AgP) and specific knowledge of distinguishing between the clinical features of localized aggressive periodontitis (LAP) and generalized aggressive periodontitis (GAP).Materials and Methods:A cross-sectional, non-random convenience survey was done on 200 dentists, in three geopolitical zones of Nigeria, using pre-tested, closed question– type questionnaires. Eventually, only 133 questionnaires were analyzed. Relationships between six outcome variables namely clinical features of LAP, clinical features of GAP, LAP oral hygiene, GAP oral hygiene, laser therapy option and type of laser therapy, and the explanatory variables of gender and experience were analyzed.Results:A total of 33.8% of the dentists had poor general knowledge, 16.5% had fair knowledge, 31.9% had good knowledge, while 10.5% had excellent knowledge. Gender- and experience-related differences were found, but they were not statistically significant.Conclusion:Both the general and specific knowledge of aggressive periodontitis among Nigerian dentists is less than expected and needs improvement through targeted, continuing dental education.

Awareness and practices regarding zoonotic influenza prevention in Romanian swine workers

Swine workers may play a key role in transmission of zoonotic influenza viruses. At the same time, little is known about the extent and effectiveness of influenza prevention programs for these at-risk workers. To characterize practices and attitudes regarding zoonotic influenza transmission among swine workers in Romania. We conducted a convenience survey of swine workers in Romania. The confidential survey included questions about awareness of zoonotic influenza risk, work tasks performed, flu vaccination status, and reported influenza-like illness. A total of 103 workers at seven farms completed the survey. The percentage of workers reporting concern about either contracting influenza from pigs or giving influenza to pigs was 78% and 70%, respectively. Although 60% of workers reported having a sick-leave policy at work, only 7% of workers reported receiving seasonal influenza vaccination during the past flu season. Only 5% of the workers reported flu-like illness during the past year while 3% of workers reported that pigs appeared sick with influenza over the same time period. The majority of workers reported using protective overalls and rubber boots during swine work, with lower rates of use of gloves. Reported use of respiratory protection was rare, and use of any personal protective equipment did not differ when pigs appeared ill. Despite awareness and concern regarding zoonotic influenza, Romanian swine workers report low rates of influenza vaccine or respiratory protection. As part of global pandemic influenza preparedness, enhanced prevention programs for swine workers should address such gaps.

Swine Worker Awareness and Behavior Regarding Prevention of Zoonotic Influenza Transmission

ABSTRACT A convenience survey of swine workers on large and small commercial farms in the Northeast and Midwest United States regarding zoonotic influenza awareness and precautions was conducted. Workers reported low levels of concern regarding the risk of contracting influenza from swine, and were generally not aware of national guidelines for influenza prevention. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) varied by task, N95 respirator use was rare, and no workers were enrolled in respirator programs. Reported influenza vaccination coverage was greater than the national average in 2009–2010, but declined in 2010–2011. Workers on large farms were more likely to use PPE in some tasks and to report using more precautions when pigs appeared ill. Although reporting low levels of concern regarding zoonotic influenza and low adherence to national influenza guidelines, swine workers reported making task-based and risk-based decisions about use of PPE, suggesting opportunities for enhanced prevention of zoonotic disease transmission.

Tuberculosis screening in a novel substance abuse treatment center in Malaysia: Implications for a comprehensive approach for integrated care

People who use drugs (PWUD) represent a key high risk group for tuberculosis (TB). The prevalence of both latent TB infection (LTBI) and active disease in drug treatment centers in Malaysia is unknown. A cross-sectional convenience survey was conducted to assess the prevalence and correlates of LTBI among attendees at a recently created voluntary drug treatment center using a standardized questionnaire and tuberculin skin testing (TST). Participants (N=196) were mostly men (95%), under 40 (median age=36years) and reported heroin use immediately before treatment entry (75%). Positive TST prevalence was 86.7%. Nine (4.6%) participants were HIV-infected. Previous arrest/incarcerations (AOR=1.1 for every entry, p<0.05) and not being HIV-infected (AOR=6.04, p=0.03) were significantly associated with TST positivity. There is an urgent need to establish TB screening and treatment programs in substance abuse treatment centers and to tailor service delivery to the complex treatment needs of patients with multiple medical and psychiatric co-morbidities.

Caffeine Withdrawal and Dependence: A Convenience Survey Among Addiction Professionals.

Caffeine withdrawal was included in the research appendix of the DSM-IV to encourage additional research to assist with determining its status for the next version of the manual. Caffeine dependence was not included because of a lack of empirical research at the time of publication. This study assessed the beliefs of addiction professionals about the clinical importance of caffeine withdrawal and dependence. A 6-item survey was developed and delivered electronically to the members of six professional organizations that focus on addiction. Open-ended comments were also solicited. Five hundred members responded. The majority (95%) thought that cessation of caffeine could produce a withdrawal syndrome, and that caffeine withdrawal can have clinical importance (73%); however, only half (48%) thought that caffeine withdrawal should be included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). A majority (58%) believed that some people develop caffeine dependence; however, only 44% indicated that it should be in the DSM. Comments suggested that trepidation about inclusion of caffeine diagnoses was due to the concerns about the field of psychiatry being criticized for including common disorders with a relatively low clinical severity. Others, however, expressed an urgent need to take caffeine-related problems more seriously. The majority of addiction professionals believe that caffeine withdrawal and dependence disorders exist and are clinically important; however, these professionals are divided in whether caffeine withdrawal and dependence should be included in DSM. Wider dissemination of the extant literature on caffeine withdrawal and additional research on caffeine dependence will be needed to provide additional guidance to policymakers and healthcare workers.

An Analysis of Hiker Preparedness: A Survey of Hiker Habits in New Hampshire

Describe hiking habits in a heavily used wilderness area to better target injury prevention and reduce search-and-rescue events. A cross-sectional, convenience survey was conducted at 3 trailheads in the White Mountain National Forest of New Hampshire during summer 2011. The study group consisted of hikers who consented to a questionnaire before their trip that assessed demographics, experience, hiking gear, pretrip planning, and communication devices. A total of 199 hikers were surveyed. The most common age group was 20 to 29 years at 29.2% (n = 195). The most common hike was less than 12 hours at 78.5% (n = 191). All 10 items deemed essential were carried by 17.8% (n = 197) of hikers. The most common omission reason was "short trip" at 32.2% (n = 162). Defined as greater than 7 items, the 50- to 59-year-old age group was the most prepared at 56.9% (n = 51). Hiker preparedness increased with experience and fitness levels. Hikers planning trips of less than 12 hours were less prepared compared with hikers planning longer trips, at 39.3% (n = 150) and 48.8% (n = 41), respectively. GPS devices were carried by 122 of 193 hikers. Phone GPS users were less prepared than GPS-only device users at 35.8% (34 of 95) and 55.6% (15 of 27), respectively. One factor that may help reduce rescues is better-prepared individuals able to avoid emergency medical services activation. Most neglect of preparation results from hikers perceiving short trips as less risky. The groups most often underprepared tend to be younger, less fit, and inexperienced. Therefore, education should target younger groups and stress that all hikes, regardless of duration, carry an inherent risk.

I have a bone to pick with you: the challenge of addressing dog-related injury in a rural community

BackgroundSarina, a rural community with a regional population of 12 000, is serviced by Mackay Safe Communities Network (MSCN). MSCN was established in 2000 to address high injury rates regionally....

A Description of Hiker Preparedness in New Hampshire

Outdoor recreation, specifically hiking, has increased dramatically over the last 30 years. While many enjoy their hikes without incident, others find themselves caught unprepared and in need of rescue. Mobilization of gear, vehicles, and personnel incur risk and a burden on local resources. Education initiatives focusing on hiker preparedness have been developed in an effort to prevent injuries and rescues. However, their effects on hiker habits have gone unexamined. The study objective was to describe hiker habits in the categories of demographics, gear, planning, and communication devices. Our hypotheses were that most hikers did not carry all 10 essential items (deemed by New Hampshire's “Hike Safe” Initiative) and that carrying a communication device (cell/smartphone, GPS) encourages hikers to attempt more difficult trails. A cross-sectional, convenience survey was conducted at 3 trailheads in the White Mountain National Forest of New Hampshire during weekends in summer 2011. The study group consisted of hikers who consented to an IRB-approved questionnaire before their trip. A total of 199 hikers completed surveys. Of the respondents, 59.8% were male and 40.2% female (n = 195), 20–29 years old was the most common age group at 29.2% (n = 195), with 58.1% (n = 191) planning a hike between 4 and 12 hours. Only 17.8% (n = 197) of hikers carried all 10 items, the least being whistles at 43.1% and compasses at 46.2% (n = 197). Of the hikers, 90.3% (n = 196) carried a communication device and 71.8% (n = 156) were “likely” to choose the same hike without it. Most hikers do not carry the 10 essential items and do not choose more difficult trails because of their communications devices. Future education efforts should focus on the importance of compasses and whistles. The small sample size and single study location prevent this study from giving a generalized description of hiking habits.

Financial Disaster as a Risk Factor for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Internet Survey of Trauma in Victims of the Madoff Ponzi Scheme

There are no known studies to date examining the risk of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) associated with sudden and dramatic personal financial loss. A Web-based, online, nonprobability convenience survey of 172 Madoff victims (56 percent female; mean age, 60.9 years) using the Posttraumatic Stress List Checklist, civilian version was conducted eight to 10 months following the focal event. Sociodemographic information and data concerning anxiety/depression and health-related concerns were gathered by self-report questionnaire. A five-point Likert-type scale was used to assess victim response to government regulatory systems. Results demonstrated that a majority of respondents (55.7 percent) met criteria for a presumptive Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed., text rev.) diagnosis of PTSD, and as a group, respondents acknowledged high levels of anxiety (60.7 percent), depression (58 percent), and health-related problems (34 percent). Victims overwhelmingly affirmed a substantial loss of confidence in financial institutions (90 percent). This raises a public health concern as to governmental response and counseling needs during times of severe economic trauma.

A synthesis of convenience survey and other data to estimate undiagnosed HIV infection among men who have sex with men in England and Wales

Hard-to-reach population subgroups are typically investigated using convenience sampling, which may give biased estimates. Combining information from such surveys, a probability survey and clinic surveillance, can potentially minimize the bias. We developed a methodology to estimate the prevalence of undiagnosed HIV infection among men who have sex with men (MSM) in England and Wales aged 16-44 years in 2003, making fuller use of the available data than earlier work. We performed a synthesis of three data sources: genitourinary medicine clinic surveillance (11 380 tests), a venue-based convenience survey including anonymous HIV testing (3702 MSM) and a general population sexual behaviour survey (134 MSM). A logistic regression model to predict undiagnosed infection was fitted to the convenience survey data and then applied to the MSMs in the population survey to estimate the prevalence of undiagnosed infection in the general MSM population. This estimate was corrected for selection biases in the convenience survey using clinic surveillance data. A sensitivity analysis addressed uncertainty in our assumptions. The estimated prevalence of undiagnosed HIV in MSM was 2.4% [95% confidence interval (95% CI 1.7-3.0%)], and between 1.6% (95% CI 1.1-2.0%) and 3.3% (95% CI 2.4-4.1%) depending on assumptions; corresponding to 5500 (3390-7180), 3610 (2180-4740) and 7570 (4790-9840) men, and undiagnosed fractions of 33, 24 and 40%, respectively. Our estimates are consistent with earlier work that did not make full use of data sources. Reconciling data from multiple sources, including probability-, clinic- and venue-based convenience samples can reduce bias in estimates. This methodology could be applied in other settings to take full advantage of multiple imperfect data sources.

The Big Drink Debate: perceptions of the impact of price on alcohol consumption from a large scale cross-sectional convenience survey in north west England.

BackgroundA large-scale survey was conducted in 2008 in north west England, a region with high levels of alcohol-related harm, during a regional 'Big Drink Debate' campaign. The aim of this paper is to explore perceptions of how alcohol consumption would change if alcohol prices were to increase or decrease.MethodsA convenience survey of residents (≥ 18 years) of north west England measured demographics, income, alcohol consumption in previous week, and opinions on drinking behaviour under two pricing conditions: low prices and discounts and increased alcohol prices (either 'decrease', 'no change' or 'increase'). Multinomial logistic regression used three outcomes: 'completely elastic' (consider that lower prices increase drinking and higher prices decrease drinking); 'lower price elastic' (lower prices increase drinking, higher prices have no effect); and 'price inelastic' (no change for either).ResultsOf 22,780 drinkers surveyed, 80.3% considered lower alcohol prices and discounts would increase alcohol consumption, while 22.1% thought raising prices would decrease consumption, making lower price elasticity only (i.e. lower prices increase drinking, higher prices have no effect) the most common outcome (62%). Compared to a high income/high drinking category, the lightest drinkers with a low income (adjusted odds ratio AOR = 1.78, 95% confidence intervals CI 1.38-2.30) or medium income (AOR = 1.88, CI 1.47-2.41) were most likely to be lower price elastic. Females were more likely than males to be lower price elastic (65% vs 57%) while the reverse was true for complete elasticity (20% vs 26%, P < 0.001).ConclusionsLower pricing increases alcohol consumption, and the alcohol industry's continued focus on discounting sales encourages higher drinking levels. International evidence suggests increasing the price of alcohol reduces consumption, and one in five of the surveyed population agreed; more work is required to increase this agreement to achieve public support for policy change. Such policy should also recognise that alcohol is an addictive drug, and the population may be prepared to pay more to drink the amount they now feel they need.

Survey of High School Students' Perceptions About Their iPod Use, Knowledge of Hearing Health, and Need for Education

High school students' knowledge about hearing health and their perceptions of how they use personal listening devices (PLDs) including iPods were surveyed to determine the need, content, and preferred format for educational outreach to them. This study was a descriptive convenience survey of students at a California high school. An 83-item questionnaire was administered in December 2009 to assess students' demographics, knowledge of hearing health, perceived iPod use, and risk activities. The response rate was 56%. Most of the students perceived that they used iPods safely. However, responses indicated that many of the respondents could be at risk of injury to themselves or others if they became unaware of their surroundings while listening to iPods. Some students were knowledgeable about hearing health and safe iPod use, but most needed information about hearing loss and hearing conservation. Most of the students needed education (e.g., via health classes or the Internet) about hearing health, the warning signs of hearing loss, and how to prevent hearing loss. Resources for educational audiologists are provided.

Complexity of Care Is Associated With Distressing Environmental Factors

The purpose of this study was to describe work and cognitive complexity patterns and assess predictors of increased complexity of care. Prospective, cross-sectional, correlational design, using a convenience sample and survey method. Four nursing units at a large, Midwest tertiary-care medical center. Participants were 38 nurses. A 3-part survey included nurse caregiving complexity, environmental (unit) stress factors, and nurse/work characteristics (including role responsibility level). Standardized sum score for work complexity was higher than cognitive complexity (P < .001). Nurses with more role responsibilities and environmental stressors had higher work (ρ = 0.37, P = .009) and cognitive complexity scores (ρ = 0.54, P < .001). After controlling for the number of role responsibilities, environmental stressors, and nurse/work characteristics, work complexity pattern scores were higher for breakdown in communication processes in nurses working off-shifts (P = .013) and interruptions in tasks on typical/busy workdays (P < .001). After controlling for nurse/work characteristics, work complexity patterns were not associated with role responsibilities, and cognitive complexity patterns were not associated with role responsibilities or environmental distress. In multivariable analysis, work complexity pattern scores remained associated with environmental distress scores (P = .024) and with 3 work complexity pattern factors: items placed in separate areas (P = .007), waiting for nonavailable systems (P = .010), and difficulty assessing proper resources (P = .015). After controlling for nurse/work characteristics, role responsibilities, and environmental stressors, work complexity was associated with environmental distress. Future research may increase understanding of relationships found in this study, and process improvement initiatives may provide targets for decreasing complexity of work patterns.

스키리조트 구성원이 지각하는 조직공정성과 조직몰입 및 조직시민행동의 관계

The purpose of this study is to determine organizational justice perceived by member of ski resort and the relations between organizational commitment and organizational citizenship behavior. In order to do so, 372 cases of effective samples are collected through convenience sampling and survey against employees of ski resort located in Gang-won province, Korea. Also, the data processing was completed by using SPSS Win Ver 14.0 for frequency analysis, reliability analysis, exploratory factor analysis, and correlation analysis, and by using AMOS 7.0 program for confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation model analysis. with procedures and methods of statistics mentioned above, the following results are gained. First, distributive justice perceived by member of ski resort has positive effect on organizational commitment is shown. Second, procedural justice perceived by member of ski resort has positive effect on organizational commitment is shown. Third, distributive Justice perceived by member of ski resort has positive effect on organizational citizenship behavior is shown. Fourth, procedural Justice perceived by member of ski resort has positive effect on organizational citizenship behavior is shown. Fifth, organizational Commitment perceived by member of ski resort has positive effect on organizational citizenship behavior is shown.

Spreadsheet Design: An Optimal Checklist For Accountants

Just as good grammar, punctuation, style, and content organization are important to well-written documents, basic fundamentals of spreadsheet design are essential to clear communication. In fact, the very principles of good writing should be integrated into spreadsheet workpaper design and organization. The unique contributions of this paper are an integration of a review of the literature on spreadsheet design, with the results of a convenience survey of CPAs, and a “Spreadsheet Design Checklist” for pedagogy. The checklist is intended as a reference for use until the student or professional becomes proficient in basic spreadsheet design and organization and the checklist becomes just as “second nature” as creating well-written memoranda.

Does Gender Matter? an Exploratory Study of Perspectives Across Genders, Age and Education

Using a convenience sample and survey research methods, the authors seek to better understand how perspectives on gender are shaped by individuals’ age, level of education and gender. Study participants responded in writing to scenarios and survey questions, revealing their personal views on gender as an identity category and as a marker in the social hierarchy. Analysis indicated that there were differences between male and female views on these dimensions of gender, and that age and educational levels were also influential. While younger respondents from both genders demonstrated flexibility in their definitions of gender and expressed strong support for gender equality, they were noticeably lacking in their knowledge of the historical context of gender relations and did not show the skills required to realise their ideals of gender equality, especially when compared to older respondents of both genders with higher levels of educational attainment.

Improved immunization practices reduce childhood hepatitis B infection in Tonga

Background Hepatitis B infection is hyper-endemic in Tonga and 19% of pregnant women test positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Routine childhood immunization against hepatitis B was introduced in 1989 and the target for elimination was set at <1% HBsAg prevalence in children. A study conducted in 1998, a decade after the introduction of hepatitis B immunization, found the HBsAg prevalence to be 3.8% in pre-school children. The finding resulted in the strengthening of the delivery of hepatitis B vaccine with emphasis on providing the first dose within 24 h after birth. The aim of this study was to measure the impact of improved immunization practices on the prevalence of hepatitis B infection in pre-school children, and to assess the progress towards hepatitis B elimination in Tonga. Measured outcome Prevalence of HBsAg antigen. Type of study Cross-sectional study. Methods Children aged 6–59 months who were admitted to Vaiola Hospital, Nuku’alofa, Tonga, and had blood collected for clinical investigation, were tested for HBsAg with a rapid serological test (Abbott Determine ®). A total of 449 children were recruited and interviewed and 375 (84%) were tested for HBsAg. Convenience testing was chosen, as it was likely to be a relatively unbiased method in this situation where all children on the island have good and equitable access to hospital services. Immunization status was checked against the children's immunization cards and cross-checked against the records kept by the public health nurses. Information about socio-economic status, parent education, blood transfusion, breast-feeding, mode of delivery, and place of birth was collected through interviews with mothers using a standardized questionnaire. Results Three children tested positive for HBsAg resulting in a prevalence of 0.8% (CI 0.2–2.5%). Hepatitis B 1 (Hep B 1) immunization coverage was found to be high, 99.1% (CI97.7–99.7) and 91.9% (CI 88.9–94.2) of children received the first dose of hepatitis B vaccine within 24 h after birth. Coverage for the third dose of hepatitis B vaccine was 97.6% (CI 95.5–98.7) and of the children with complete immunization 84.7% (CI 80.9–87.9) had received all three doses by 6 months of age. Conclusions The results show that the instituted changes in the delivery of hepatitis B vaccine have been effective in reducing the transmission of hepatitis B to children and indicate that Tonga appears to have achieved the elimination target of less than 1% HBsAg prevalence in children. This convenience survey used a simple, cost effective and reproducible study design. Convenience testing can be recommended for surveillance of the effectiveness of immunization programmes in settings where the population has good access to health services.