Descriptive Cross-sectional Study Research Articles

Evaluating Tuberculosis Awareness and Screening Outcomes among Household Contacts of Index Cases: A Cross-Sectional Study in Ghana

This study assessed TB prevalence and factors affecting screening among household contacts in Ga West Municipality, Ghana. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with 107 household contacts of TB index cases identified from health facility records. A structured questionnaire collected data on demographics, TB knowledge, screening, and treatment status. Utilizing STATA 14, the statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and Pearson chi-square tests, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. The mean age of participants was 35.7 years (SD ± 11.8), predominantly male (58.9%) and urban dwellers (78.5%). Of the participants, 57.9% were screened for TB, with a positive rate of 20% (n=9). Among those diagnosed, 88.9% (n=8) initiated treatment. Awareness of TB was high (90.7%), yet only 6.7% could identify five key symptoms of TB. Significant associations were found between educational level and TB awareness (χ²(4) = 17.237, p = 0.002), between residence and screening likelihood (χ²(1) = 4.26, p = 0.039), and individuals residing within 5 km of a health facility had a higher likelihood of being screened compared to those living farther away (χ²(1) = 10.41, p = 0.001). This study found that despite high awareness of TB transmission, screening rates among household contacts were low; enhanced outreach and education efforts are needed to improve knowledge and screening, particularly for urban residents. The predominance of male pulmonary cases was noted, highlighting the necessity for targeted efforts to mitigate TB transmission and further research on barriers to screening.

Prevalence of adherence and its impact on quality of life in oral anticoagulant users in Egypt: A cross-sectional study from two Egyptian university hospitals

BackgroundOral anticoagulant therapy (OAT) is critical for managing thromboembolic disorders, but adherence challenges significantly impact its effectiveness and patients’ quality of life (QoL). This study explores the predictors of adherence and their effects on QoL among OAT users in Egypt.MethodsThis multi-center cross-sectional descriptive study with an analytical component was conducted at Mansoura University Hospital and Ain Shams University Hospital. Participants were adults over 18 years old, on OAT for at least one month, who provided informed consent. Convenience sampling was used to recruit 212 participants. Data were collected using a survey that included socio-demographic details, the Arabic Version of the Adherence to Refills and Medications Scale (ARMS), and the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, Student’s t-tests, and multivariate logistic regression.ResultsThe study included 212 participants, with an average age of 55 years, 57% female and 43% male. Among the participants, 25.5% were adherent to their anticoagulant regimen, while 74.5% were non-adherent. Adherence was significantly higher among NOAC users (44.4%) compared to warfarin users (19.0%). Key predictors of adherence included the use of NOACs (OR = 2.7), residency in rural areas (OR = 2.4), and having first-degree relatives in medical specialties (OR = 2.4). Quality of life scores were significantly higher for NOAC users in psychological, social, and environmental domains compared to warfarin users. The overall QoL score was also higher in NOAC users. Poorer adherence was associated with lower scores in these QoL domains.ConclusionsOur study indicates that NOACs enhance adherence and quality of life relative to VKAs. Key adherence predictors include NOAC use, rural residency, and having relatives in medical professions. Educational level, initially significant, did not persist as a predictor in multivariate analysis. Targeted strategies are needed to improve adherence and patient outcomes.

Toys in the bedroom: use of sexual devices in partnered sexual activity is associated with higher female orgasmic intensity, arousal, and sexual satisfaction and is not related to psychopathologies.

Sex devices are tools that can improve the sexual health of users, but their effects on sexual outcomes in partnered intercourse have rarely been evaluated. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between partnered and solitary use of sex devices and different sexual health outcomes among sexually active women aged 18-35 in a heterosexual relationship. The cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with 361 participants between May and June 2023 recruited through a social media campaign. Female sexual function was measured with the Female Sexual Function Index and the Orgasmometer-F. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale, the Patient Health Questionnaire and the Dark Future Scale were used to investigate psychological health. Statistical analysis was performed with the statistical software R; the significance level for statistical analyses was set as P<0.05. The outcomes of the study include female sexual function and orgasmic intensity, as well as measures of symptoms of anxiety, depression, and uncertainty for the future. Compared to those who only used sex devices for solitary masturbation, women using sex devices in the context of partnered intercourse had higher arousal and satisfaction scores (P= 0.042 and P= 0.004, respectively), as well as higher subjective perception of orgasmic intensity over the last 6months (P= 0.005) and in partnered sexual intercourse in the last 4weeks (P= 0.002). Conversely, orgasmic intensity during masturbation in the last 4weeks was higher among solitary users (P< 0.001). No significant difference was found between the two study groups for all other outcome measures. The use of sex devices in the context of partnered intercourse is associated with increased sexual function and more intense orgasmic experience. The study investigates a novel topic, on a large sample size, by using several validated instruments to measure sexual functioning of participants. However, a definite cause-effect relationship cannot be established due to the study design. Self-report bias and lack of clinical data on study participants are further limitations. Additionally, being a study limited to heterosexual, sexually active women involved in a relationship, results cannot be generalized to all women. The study found an association between better sexual functioning and use of sex devices in partnered intercourse.

Sexual dysfunction in female patients with multiple sclerosis: relationship with functional status, fatigue, depression, sleep quality, and quality of life.

Although sexual dysfunction is one of the most common symptoms in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), there are relatively few studies on this topic. The aim of this study was to assess sexual function in female MS patients and investigate its association with functional state, fatigue, depression, sleep, and quality of life. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between May and November 2019 with MS patients attending an MS outpatient clinic at a university hospital. Patients' sexual function was assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life Scale (MSQoL-54) were used to determine their relationship to sexual function. Sexual function, functional status, depression, sleep quality, and quality of life. The mean age of the 83 patients included in the study was 41.8 (±8.5) years, and all were married. The mean FSFI score of the patients was 21.1 (±8.9) and 26.55, 72.3% of patients were found to have sexual dysfunction. FSFI scores were found to have a negative correlation with age (r = -0.398, P = .001), duration of diagnosis (r = -0.338, P = .001), and EDSS scores (r = -0.326, P = 0.040). Patients taking symptomatic medication (P = .032) and antidepressants (P = .012) had lower mean FSFI scores. Additionally, the FSFI score showed a significant negative correlation with the FSS (r = -0.368, P = .001), the BDI (r = -0.423, P < .001), the PSQI (r = -0.314, P = .004), and the MSQoL-54 (physical health: r = 0.509, P < .001 and mental health: r = 0.431, P < .001). A comprehensive evaluation of sexual dysfunction and the development of tailored treatment plans, taking into account associated factors, will be beneficial for female patients with MS. Small sample size and assessment of sexual function by a generic scale are the limitations of this study. Considering the multifactorial nature of sexual dysfunction in female MS patients, it is recommended that patients be assessed multidimensionally during outpatient follow-up visits.

Prevalence and diagnostic accuracy of different diagnostic tests for Chagas disease in an indigenous community of the Paraguayan Chaco.

Chagas disease (CD), caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi), poses a major health challenge in Paraguay, especially in the resource-limited Chaco region. Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) are valuable tools to enhance diagnostic access. This study evaluates CD prevalence and risk factors in an indigenous community in the Paraguayan Chaco and validates the national RDT-based diagnostic algorithm for resource-limited settings against the recommended standard algorithm, which relies solely on conventional serological tests. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Casanillo, Presidente Hayes, Paraguay. In July 2023, a two-week field campaign was executed using a non-probability convenience sampling method targeting individuals aged over 9 months. Screening involved a single RDT, with positives confirmed via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Algorithm accuracy was validated externally at the National Reference Laboratory of Paraguay against the standard algorithm, which, in this study, included an ELISA and Hemagglutination test. Discordant cases were resolved with a second ELISA or Immunofluorescence. The study involved 999 participants, with a median age of 26 years (IQR 12-45), and 51.1% were female. The RDT-based diagnostic algorithm showed 97.1% agreement (κ = 0.94, 95%CI: 0.90-0.98) with the standard algorithm. The RDT alone had 96.0% agreement (κ = 0.91, 95%CI: 0.87-0.96), while the confirmatory ELISA had 94.3% agreement (κ = 0.88, 95%CI: 0.83-0.93). The algorithm's sensitivity/specificity (95%CI) were 94.6% (89.2-97.8)/98.6% (96.1-99.7), with the RDT at 94.6% (89.2-97.8)/96.8% (93.6-98.7) and the ELISA at 96.9% (92.3-99.2)/92.7% (88.5-95.8). T.cruzi infection seroprevalence was 12.6% (95%CI: 9.56-16.52). Age, Sanapaná ethnicity, and awareness of CD vectors were significantly associated with infection odds. No significant associations were found with other typical CD risk factors, clinical history, or health habits. The study underscores the high burden of T. cruzi infection in indigenous communities in the Paraguayan Chaco, urging immediate interventions for improved diagnosis and treatment. The combination of RDTs with conventional serology for diagnostic screening in resource-constrained settings proved useful, and its further use is encouraged.

Improving Patient Safety Culture in Conflict-Affected Zones: A Cross-Sectional Survey of North Kivu Surgical Personnel in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Patient safety culture significantly impacts outcomes in surgery, where preventable errors can occur. This study assessed patient safety culture and its determinants in operating rooms across North Kivu, a conflict-affected province in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). A descriptive multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted from July to September 2024 in five urban and six rural hospitals. The French version of the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture (HSOPSC) questionnaire was administered to 328 operating room healthcare professionals. The response rate was 78% (256 completed surveys). Urban hospitals accounted for 55.5% of respondents, who were 73.4% male and 62.5% under the age of 40. The overall composite score for patient safety culture was 63.2%. Teamwork (81.1%) and management support for patient safety (77.7%) received the highest positive responses, whereas error reporting (39.9%) and patient safety event reporting (50%) scored lower. Half (49.6%) of the respondents rated patient safety as excellent or very good. There were no significant differences in overall mean composite scores between urban and rural hospitals (p=0.677) and between medical and paramedical staff (p=0.694). The patient safety culture rating in North Kivu falls below international standards, highlighting an urgent need for improvement, particularly in error response and event reporting. Developing a tailored patient safety bundle for the region is essential to enhance overall health outcomes.

Assessing the key factors contributing to non-adherence to pulmonary tuberculosis treatment: a descriptive study.

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in developing nations like India, where it imposes a considerable burden. This descriptive cross-sectional study aimed to assess the factors affecting noncompliance with TB medications among pulmonary TB patients in an Indian community. A total of 215 participants were selected through non-probability purposive sampling. Data on factors contributing to non-adherence were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire. Demographic characteristics, including age, gender, education, marital status, occupation, habitat, income, diagnosis, and duration since diagnosis, were recorded and analyzed. Key factors contributing to non-adherence were categorized into personal, economic, social, psychological, health facility, and technological factors. The results demonstrated that the non-adherence rate was 48.3%, while 51.7% of participants exhibited adherence to TB treatment. Discontinuing medication to feel better significantly increased noncompliance risk, especially for those who stopped "most of the time" vs. those who never stopped (odds ratio = 8.693, 95% confidence interval: 3.179-23.77). This study reveals that non-adherence to pulmonary TB treatment is influenced by a range of factors, including personal, economic, social, psychological, health facility, and technological factors, highlighting the need for multifaceted interventions to improve adherence.

Compliance to Tobacco Advertising and Promotion Ban in Four Regions of a Southern Indian State – A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Tobacco advertising and promotion influences youth smoking initiation and regular use. India’s Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003, bans tobacco advertising and promotion but allows Point of Sale (PoS) advertisements under specific conditions. This study aimed to assess compliance with the ban on tobacco advertising at the PoS in the Karnataka state of Southern India. A cross-sectional observational survey was conducted in 529 PoS across Karnataka’s four administrative regions between January to March 2020 using a checklist. The research assistants visited shops selling tobacco products, observed each store during business hours for 10 minutes, and completed the checklist. Proportions and percentages were calculated for each domain of the checklist. The study showed that 127 (24%) shops out of 529 had direct PoS advertisements. Among the total violations, product showcases (94.5%), Stickers (76%), and Posters (75.6%) were prominently used for the promotion of tobacco products. Advertisements were seen more commonly in petty shops (92%) and urban areas (59.8%). Product displays, stickers, and posters were used most often to violate advertising laws. Compliance should be improved in urban and petty shops, to decrease tobacco product exposure and accessibility.

Missed Nursing Care of Nurses in Neonatal Intensive Care Units During COVID-19 Period: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study

ABSTRACT This study was conducted to determine the missed nursing care and to compare missed nursing care with descriptive characteristics of nurses during the COVID-19 period. The study was conducted with 182 nurses as a descriptive design working in seven public hospitals with a level III neonatal intensive care unit in Istanbul between April and July 2021. The study used an introductory information form for nurses and the Misscare survey-Pediatric version. Missed nursing care included “mouth care,” “full documentation of all necessary data,” and “communication of all relevant information during shift change or handover” in the first three ranks (n = 179, 98.35%). It was found that the highest score among reasons for missed nursing care was in the communication sub-dimension (2.50 ± 0.74). It was found that the reasons for missing care for nurses between the ages of 26–30 and with 6–10 years of professional experience (p < .05) were material resources-related, while the reasons for missing care for nurses with 11 years or more of professional experience (p < .05) and caring for 4 sick newborns in a shift (p < .01) were communication problems. It was concluded that nurses were unable to provide at least one nursing care in the last shift, and this was primarily due to communication-related problems. Training and policies for the development of communication skills can be suggested to reduce missed nursing care.

Medical students' knowledge, attitudes, and motivation towards antimicrobial resistance efforts in Eastern Uganda.

Learning beyond the classroom is important for holistic engagement in antimicrobial resistance(AMR) mitigation. Extracurricular interventions can catalyze multidisciplinary engagement and inspire innovative solutions. This study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitudes, and motivations influencing medical students' engagement in AMR Club initiatives at Busitema University, Uganda. This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at Busitema University among undergraduate students pursuing Bachelors of Medicine and Surgery, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and Bachelor of Science in Anesthesia and Critical care. Data collection was performed using a semi-structured, pre-tested questionnaire and administered to the participants The Bloom's cut-off method was used to analyse the knowledge of the participants, while bivariate analysis was conducted using the chi square test. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors independently associated with students' engagement in AMR club activities. Of the 193 study participants, 71.5%(n) demonstrated sufficient knowledge about antimicrobial resistance (AMR), as determined using Bloom's cutoff categories (≥60% classified as sufficient, <60% as insufficient), with an average knowledge score of 68.18% (SD ±16.12). Additionally, 90% of participants acknowledged the significance of incorporating AMR topics into their curriculum, while 87.5% emphasized the need for AMR training using a One Health approach. The major motivations for students to engage in extracurricular activities addressing AMR were peer influence (n = 42), university support (n = 35), and inspiration drawn from peer mentors' work (n = 35). The students demonstrated a high level of knowledge and positive attitudes towards AMR but highlighted the need for further in-depth training. Participation in extra-curricular activities such as involvement in an AMR Club, was found to significantly influence students' engagement in AMR related interventions.

Using the capture-recapture method to ascertain the incidence of musculoskeletal injuries among elite military personnel

IntroductionInjury epidemiology research traditionally uses a single musculoskeletal injury (MSI) data source, such as injury self-report (ISR) or medical record-review (MRR). MSI data obtained from ISR may be incomplete due...

Awareness and knowledge of diabetic retinopathy in diabetics and non-diabetics: A descriptive cross-sectional study.

Early diagnosis and management of the ever-increasing global consequences of diabetes is of concern to all nations. The populations of developing countries in particular, account for about 75% of the estimated total number of those afflicted. The Middle East and North Africa Region have around 35.4 (24.3-47.4) million diabetics with a prevalence of around 10.5% in the Middle East. A high proportion of these are undiagnosed. The aim of this study was to assess the awareness of and knowledge about the ocular impacts of diabetes as diabetic retinopathy (DR) in Jordanians by comparing those with and those without diabetes. In this cross-sectional study, diabetic and non-diabetic patients attending different clinics at the National Center for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Genetics (NCDEG) were interviewed face-to-face using a questionnaire, to assess the level of knowledge about diabetic retinopathy (DR). The questionnaire was assessed beforehand by ophthalmologists from the School of Medicine, the University of Jordan, in Amman Results: A total of 214 subjects participated in this study (108 males:106 females). The mean age was 58.2 ± 10.6 years; (28 to 88 years) ~70% were diabetic. More than 98% were aware that diabetes can have ocular consequences. Only 17.3% however, had an adequate knowledge of DR. Around 40% did not know the treatment options although 75.7% of the diabetics carried out regular blood sugar checks in <6 months, and 73.4% had their last eye checkups in <one year. The main source of information about DR was the media (33.6%) though healthcare personnel made a minor contribution to raising the knowledge level (5.6%). The participants in this study had good awareness of DR but their knowledge of this ocular condition and treatment options is limited. Health-education programs and awareness campaigns should be initiated at health and eye care centers. Enrichment of social media and internet websites with evidence-based information by medical professionals are promising options for upgrading knowledge about this common global cause of blindness.

Evaluasi Pelaksanaan Clinical Skills Laboratory berbasis Pembelajaran Jarak Jauh Fakultas Kedokteran Gigi Universitas YARSI

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, all Faculty of Dentistry in Indonesia conducted online theoretical learning. However, the clinical skills learning could not be implemented because it is hampered by limited facilities and infrastructure. Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas YARSI tries to develop a method of implementing a distance learning-based skills laboratory so that the activities can still be carried out. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the implementation of a distance learning-based clinical skills laboratory (CSL), Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas YARSI. Methods: The research was conducted with a descriptive observational and cross-sectional study design on all undergraduate students of the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas YARSI who took part in distance learning-based CSL, by filling out a modified questionnaire. Results: The preparation, implementation, lecturers, and instructors of the distance learning-based CSL have been carried out well and are an alternative to face-to-face learning, students also did not experience significant obstacles in their learning process. Conclusion: The implementation of distance learning-based CSL, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas YARSI can be an option for skills lab that cannot be done face-to-face, by maximizing all methods used, learning objectives can still be achieved.

Comparison of Breastfeeding Behaviors of Mothers Toward Infants by Ethnic Groups: An Example of a Multicultural City.

Introduction: Breastfeeding practices vary widely among different ethnic groups and are influenced by cultural, social, economic, and educational factors. The aim of this study was to compare the breastfeeding behaviors of mothers toward infants in different ethnic groups. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study included women of four ethnic groups (Assyrian, Turkish, Arab, and Kurdish) living in Mardin, Turkey. The study was completed with 180 Assyrian, 184 Turkish, 175 Arab, and 169 Kurdish women. In total, 708 women participated in this study. Data were collected between August 12, 2024, and September 22, 2024. Results: The highest rate of traditional breastfeeding practices was seen in Kurdish (99.4%), whereas this rate was 97.3% in Turkish, 96% in Arab, and 84.4% in Assyrian. The highest rate of giving breast milk immediately after birth was in Assyrian (71.7%), while this rate was 69.3% in Turkish, 61.9% in Kurdish, and 47% in Arab (p = 0.000). The rate of those who waited for three calls to prayer to feed the baby was 13.1% in Kurdish, 11.3% in Arab, 9.5% in Turkish, and 7.9% in Assyrian. The rate of those who did not give the first milk (colostrum) to the baby was 15.8% in Assyrian, 11.7% in Turkish, 6.5% in Kurdish, and 6% in Arab. The rate of those who give sugared water as the baby's first nutrient was 37.5% in Arab, 20.8% in Kurdish, 11.7% in Turkish, and 9.2% in Assyrian. Increased education levels were associated with decreased rates of the presence of traditional practices. Conclusion: This study provides novel results regarding the comparison of breastfeeding behaviors among ethnic groups living in the same city. Comparing breastfeeding practices across the four ethnic groups allowed us to better understand different breastfeeding practices, which could lead to the development of culturally sensitive interventions to improve the health of children and mothers. Educating the community about the benefits of breastfeeding and the risks associated with some traditional practices could contribute to public health.

Factors Predisposing to Teenage Pregnancy among Female Secondary School Students in Southwest, Nigeria

Background: Adolescent females are amongst the most vulnerable age groups and are at risk of sexual, psychological, physical, mental and social problems. This coupled with increase in their sexual awareness, biological changes associated with puberty and tendency to explore and experiment their sexuality could result in high burden of reproductive health problems including teenage pregnancy. Adolescent pregnancies have a long-lasting impact on the physical and mental health, education, and livelihood of young women, men, and their families. Methodology: This study was a descriptive cross-sectional study, carried out among 270 in-school female adolescents in selected secondary schools in Lagos, Nigeria. A self-administered questionnaire was used to elicit the variables of interest, supervised by trained research assistants. The data collected were analyzed with Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 26. Results: The mean age of the respondents was 15.80±1.12 years. 59.3% of the respondents had poor knowledge on teenage pregnancy which showed statistical significance (P&lt;0.000) when correlated with sexual intercourse. 13.7% of the respondents had had coitus, with the average age of coitarche being 15 years. There was a high prevalence of multiple sexual partners and a high abortion rate in our study (40.5% and 80.4% respectively). Teenage pregnancy was related to lack of parenting, poverty, lack of sex education, lack of self-control and peer pressure especially from their partners. Conclusion: There is a need to increase knowledge on teenage pregnancy among female adolescents in senior secondary schools in southwest Nigeria.

Working Conditions and Well-Being of School Nurses in Spain: Impact on Job Satisfaction and Professional Quality of Life

Background: School nurses play a crucial role in promoting student health, addressing issues such as substance use, mental health, physical health, violence, and sexual health. However, their job satisfaction has been understudied, particularly in relation to the challenges they face. Objective: This study evaluates the job satisfaction and professional quality of life among school nurses and nurses working in educational settings in Spain. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted (November 2023–February 2024) with 553 nurses from various regions of Spain, using the Font-Roja job satisfaction and CPV-35 professional quality of life questionnaires. Results: Our results showed significant differences in job satisfaction between nurses in healthcare and educational settings, influenced by factors such as workload and institutional support. Most participants (97.5% women, median age ~40 years) had less than 5 years of experience. The lack of a dedicated nurse in half of the schools highlights disparities in service provision. Discussion: This study emphasizes the need for supportive policies and work environments to improve the well-being and job satisfaction of nurses in school settings.

Complementary Feeding Practices among Mothers of Children Aged 6 to 59 Months in the Rural Commune of Sinder, Tillaberi, Niger

Adequate nutritional practices during early and early childhood are essential to ensure the growth, health and development of the full potential of these children (1). These practices begin with exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of the child's life (2), then continue with complementary feeding while continuing breastfeeding up to two years or more (3). This study aims to assess the practices of complementary feeding by mothers and wet nurses in the rural commune of Sinder. This is a descriptive cross-sectional study, on a representative sample of mothers of children under five years old. A questionnaire was completed using a structured interview. The data were collected with ODK software and then analyzed with SPSS and Epi Info version 7.2 software. Simple random sampling method were used to determine the sample size. A total of 166 mother-child pairs were identified. Before the 6th month, the majority of children were introduced to complementary foods (55.56%), 44.44% of mothers gave complementary foods at the ideal time. The average age of introduction of complementary foods is 4.9±2.77 months. Children on complementary feeding represent about 38% and those on total ablactation about 62%. The average age of weaning was 17.2±4.67 months. The frequency of consumption of complementary foods (CF) varies from one to three times a day but the majority of children (55.56%) are fed two (2) times a day. Cereal-based foods were the most consumed. The minimum acceptable diet was not satisfactory for the majority of children.

Pandemic Adaptation: Online Study Could be Interesting and Enjoyable with Games

Adapting offline to online learning during the pandemic requires interactive design so that students can stay involved and achieve learning goals. Interactive and fun learning will motivate student learning. We design PBL learning using interactive and collaborative games in online meetings. The aim of this research is to see students' learning motivation in PBL using online games. This research is a cross-sectional descriptive class participation study. PBL games in the form of scenarios are presented in the form of online images with hidden keywords and students work together in groups to find solutions. First year students are asked to fill out the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory (IMI) questionnaire at the end of the PBL games activity. Students rated PBL games as fun (71%), beneficial (69%), and provided choices (33%). The increase in students' intrinsic motivation can be seen in the high percentage of fun and beneficial components. The PBL learning method using games can increase students' intrinsic motivation. Learning methods using games can be developed and used continuously so that learning is interesting and fun.

The effect of emotional intelligence on nurses’ job performance: the mediating role of moral intelligence and occupational stress

BackgroundAlthough previous studies have linked emotional intelligence to nurses’ job performance, research lacks how moral intelligence and occupational stress mediate this relationship. Addressing this gap is essential for improving nursing care outcomes. This study aims to determine the mediating effect of moral intelligence and occupational stress in this relationship among Iranian nurses.MethodsThis descriptive cross-sectional correlational study was conducted in Urmia Teaching Hospital from February to April 2022. Six hundred and twenty-one nurses were recruited using quota sampling. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire, Lenik and Kiel’s Moral Intelligence Questionnaire (LK-MIQ), Siberia Schering’s Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (SS-EISQ), Patterson’s Job Performance Questionnaire (P-JPQ), and the Nursing Stress Scale (NSS). Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS ver. 23 and Smart-PLS ver. 3.0.ResultsThe effect of emotional intelligence on job performance was positive, direct, and weak (β = 0.099, t-value = 2.285, p = 0.023). Emotional intelligence had a negative, direct, and weak effect on moral intelligence (β = − 0.257, t-value = 4.754, p = 0.000) and a negative, direct, and moderate effect on occupational stress (β = − 0.316, t-value = 6.482, p = 0.000). Moral intelligence mediates the relationship between emotional intelligence and occupational stress (β = 0.0842, 95% CI: 0.0532, 0.1194). However, the mediating role of occupational stress between emotional intelligence and job performance was not supported (β = 0.003, 95% CI: − 0.0139, 0.0184).ConclusionMoral and emotional intelligence should be key criteria for selecting nursing staff and managers to create a safe, low-stress environment that boosts nurses’ job performance. Healthcare managers should promote nurses’ emotional intelligence by offering practical courses for enhancing nurses’ self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management skills. It is essential to support moral intelligence by organizing educational classes that improve their integrity, responsibility, compassion, and forgiveness.

Navigating water crisis, cholera, and refugee context: Lessons from Nakivale refugee settlement, Isingiro District, Uganda.

Inadequate safe water supply and cholera outbreaks are significant contributors to ill health in displaced populations, exacerbating the vulnerability of refugees fleeing conflicts. In November 2021, the Nakivale Refugee Settlement faced a cholera outbreak and water scarcity, putting displaced persons at risk of ill health. This study aimed to investigate the lessons learned from this incident and identify pathways to prevent future outbreaks, ultimately safeguarding the lives and well-being of vulnerable populations. A descriptive cross-sectional study analysed epidemiological data from the Uganda Ministry of Health, investigating the cholera outbreak among refugees in Nakivale Refugee Settlement, Isingiro district, from November 3rd to December 2nd, 2021. The outbreak affected 173 refugees, primarily in Nyarugugu B and C villages, with consumption of contaminated lake water identified as the likely cause. Inadequate access to clean water and sanitation facilities exacerbated the outbreak, which disproportionately affected individuals aged 10-19 years (30.1%) and females (65%). Promotion of safe water, sanitation, and oral cholera vaccination campaigns effectively controlled the outbreak. This study highlights the critical importance of providing refugees with access to safe water and sanitation infrastructure to prevent cholera outbreaks. Timely implementation of oral cholera vaccination campaigns and enhanced water management systems are crucial to preventing future outbreaks in refugee settlements.