Descriptive Study Research Articles

Contribution of International Non-Governmental Organizations’ Interventions on Students’ Competence in English Language in Bugesera District Primary Schools, Rwanda

Purpose: The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of interventions by International Non-Governmental Organizations on students' competence in Rwanda. Methodology: This research adopted a descriptive case study design aimed at establishing the impact of International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs) interventions on learners’ competence in English in Rwanda. The study utilized a mixed-method approach, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative methodologies to provide a comprehensive analysis. The population of our study was composed of 92 teachers and 16 head teachers of all primary schools in Bugesera District which were the target of Teacher Self Learning Academy project. The population also included 5 SEIs, 1 DEO/DDE in that district and a Plan International staff who has been involved in the TSLA project implementation. The sample size drawn from the total population of 92 teachers is 75 teachers using Slovin's Formula. Alongside the 8 head teachers from the selected schools, 5 SEIs, 1 DDE, and 1 Plan International staff member, this leads to a total of 90 participants for the study. The sampling approach was specifically tailored to suit the different categories of participants in the study. Purposive sampling was employed to select all head teachers from the identified schools. In contrast, stratified random sampling was used to select teachers, ensuring representativeness across various demographics such as gender, experience, and school location. For this study purpose, questionnaires and interview guide was used to collect and analyze data from research participants. The researcher took into consideration validity and reliability of the study to be valid and reliable to the audience. The researcher used descriptive statistics to analyze quantitative data and draw tables. Descriptive statistics were used to simplify large amounts of data. Inferential statistics were used to treat particular factors to detect the contribution of each determinant in learners’ competence in English. Primary data was treated through appropriate software as Statistical Package for Social Science (IBM/SPSS Version 21.0) and by after confronted with interviews and secondary data. Findings: The findings from both quantitative and qualitative data reveal that the TSLA project had a significant positive impact on students' English language skills, particularly in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The findings revealed that 90.7% of the respondents agreed that instructional videos uploaded on iPods improved students' English listening skills, while 100% believed that these videos enhanced speaking fluency. Additionally, 94.7% of respondents indicated that the provision of teaching aids improved students' reading skills, and 86.7% noted an improvement in writing skills. Methods used in teachers' training, such as study groups and mentoring, were positively evaluated, with 76% and 74.7% of respondents, respectively, affirming their contribution to students’ English competence. However, challenges such as inadequate support from school management (62.7%), lack of incentives (88%), and insufficient resources (98.7%) were identified as barriers to effective implementation. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Government authorities should enforce policies that mandate continuous professional development for teachers and monitor their implementation to ensure effectiveness. The Ministry of Education should enhance teacher training programs by investing in comprehensive and continuous professional development programs that focus on modern teaching methodologies, ICT integration, and language competences. The Rwanda Basic Education Board (REB) should create incentive schemes to acknowledge and reward teachers who demonstrate exceptional dedication and improvement in their teaching practices. Bugesera Primary Schools should ensure that school management provides adequate support to teachers, including mentoring, peer coaching, and access to necessary teaching materials while parents should encourage and support their children's learning activities at home, particularly in using ICT tools and practicing language skills.

Implementation and evaluation of a mobile application to support occupational therapy education

Purpose This study aims to evaluate the usability and effectiveness of a mobile application, ValTO, designed to enhance communication and professional reasoning skills in occupational therapy students through a case-based learning approach. Design/methodology/approach A descriptive exploratory study was conducted with 32 second-year occupational therapy students. The usability of the app was assessed using the Mobile Application Rating Scale and the System Usability Scale, complemented by the University of Oviedo’s Learning Satisfaction Survey. Findings The majority of students (77.8%) rated the app above average on the System Usability Scale, with 50% scoring it as excellent. Mobile Application Rating Scale scores revealed high ratings across functionality, aesthetics and information quality, with a significant correlation between app usability and user satisfaction. Increased student satisfaction was also observed in the Learning Satisfaction Survey compared to previous years. Originality/value ValTO integrates modern mobile health tools into occupational therapy education, enhancing students’ decision-making skills in an innovative, real-world context. This study contributes to the growing body of research on mobile health applications in educational settings, demonstrating their potential to improve both student engagement and learning outcomes.

Assessment of Dental Students' Knowledge and Attitudes About the Epidemiologic and Clinical Characteristics of Oral Cancer: Implications for Other Middle-income Countries.

The stage of detection of head and neck cancer and the time between detection and treatment are critical to prognosis. The importance of the dentist in primary diagnosis and treatment planning has been emphasized. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the knowledge of dental students in the prevention and early diagnosis of oral cancer. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 199 students from different institutions. A self-administered questionnaire with 34 multiple-choice questions on clinical and epidemiologic knowledge and opinions about oral cancer was used. Descriptive analysis to show means and frequencies and the binomial logistic regression test were used to perform the statistical analysis. The confidence level used was 95%. The results showed that all students in the study had heard of the existence of oral cancer, but only 24.6% knew someone with the disease. The majority reported a lack of information in the population about prevention and self-examination, as well as a lack of information campaigns in institutions. Although the majority perform clinical examinations of the oral mucosa (73.4%) and refer patients with suspicious lesions to specialists, there is low confidence in performing biopsies (73.4%) and gaps in training during graduation (84.4%). The majority have never attended continuing education courses on oral cancer but show interest (97.5%). The study identifies deficiencies in the knowledge and practices of dental students and highlights the need for improved teaching and training to promote oral cancer prevention and early detection. Further research in this area and ongoing assessment of students' skills are suggested.

Analisis Harga Pokok Produksi Menggunakan Metode Full Costing Pada CV Cielofood Pratama

The analysis of production costs using the full costing method at CV Cielofood Pratama in Bogor aims to set accurate selling prices through comprehensive production cost calculations. This study applied a descriptive case study approach, utilizing primary data from observations and interviews as well as secondary data. The analysis revealed a total monthly production cost of Rp 42,200,000, with a per-unit cost of Rp 15,461.54. These results demonstrate that the full costing method provides a complete overview of all production expenses, aiding management in decision-making related to pricing strategies and operational efficiency. The practical implication of this method can enhance the company's competitiveness in the market.

Unveiling Shadows: Challenges Encountered by Mental Health Nurses and Health Cadres in the Delivery of Care to Persons With Mental Illness in Indonesia.

Mental health nurses and health cadres in Indonesia who provide care to persons with mental illness (PWMI) report encountering several challenges and obstacles to the delivery of quality care. At present, there is a paucity of research on this topic. The objective of this study was to examine the challenges encountered by mental health nurses and health cadres in their interactions with the families of PWMI in the community. This descriptive qualitative study employed focus group discussions, conducted in three Indonesian cities: Banda Aceh, Surabaya and Yogyakarta. Thematic analysis was utilised to analyse the data. The study revealed that the theme of this research is nurses and health cadres experienced challenging family behaviours toward a PWMI. The initial subtheme of family behaviour is 'concealing the PWMI.' This subtheme encompasses instances where families attempted to hide the mental health condition of the PWMI. The second subtheme is 'unsupportive families'. This subtheme is characterised by reluctance to engage in treatment or outright rejection of hospital care. This is often due to factors such as familial busyness. The third subtheme is 'poor parenting styles'. This subtheme highlights how inadequate parenting practices, domestic violence and lack of family support contribute to stress and exacerbation of mental disorders in PWMI. The fourth subtheme is 'hidden motive related to wills and testaments', which reveals how families may attempt to manipulate treatment to remove the inheritance rights of PWMI. The fifth subtheme is 'abandonment by family', which describes scenarios where families completely neglect PWMI, leading to inadequate care and medication adherence. The final subtheme, 'removal of PWMI from family units', describes instances where families sent PWMI to mental health facilities for permanent separation, sometimes even relocating to another city. To address these issues, a comprehensive approach is required that considers both the affected individuals and their families. An understanding of the motivations behind these behaviours is essential for the development of targeted interventions that promote family support, reduce stigma and improve the overall mental health environment in communities.

The Current State of Robot-Assisted Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy (RAMIE): Outcomes from the Upper GI International Robotic Association (UGIRA) Esophageal Registry.

Robot-assisted minimally invasive esophagectomy (RAMIE) is increasingly adopted in centers worldwide, with ongoing refinements to enhance results. This study aims to assess the current state of RAMIE worldwide and to identify potential areas for improvement. This descriptive study analyzed prospective data from esophageal cancer patients who underwent transthoracic RAMIE in Upper GI International Robotic Association (UGIRA) centers. Main endpoints included textbook outcome rate, surgical techniques, and perioperative outcomes. Analyses were performed separately for intrathoracic (Ivor-Lewis) and cervical anastomosis (McKeown), divided into three time cohorts (2016-2018, 2019-2020, 2021-2023). A sensitivity analysis was conducted with cases after the learning curve (> 70 cases). Across 28 UGIRA centers, 2012 Ivor-Lewis and 1180 McKeown procedures were performed. Over the time cohorts, textbook outcome rates were 39%, 48%, and 49% for Ivor-Lewis, and 49%, 63%, and 61% for McKeown procedures, respectively. Fully robotic procedures accounted for 66%, 51%, and 60% of Ivor-Lewis procedures, and 53%, 81%, and 66% of McKeown procedures. Lymph node yield showed 27, 30, and 30 nodes in Ivor-Lewis procedures, and 26, 26, and 34 nodes in McKeown procedures. Furthermore, high mediastinal lymphadenectomy was performed in 65%, 43%, and 37%, and 70%, 48%, and 64% of Ivor-Lewis and McKeown procedures, respectively. Anastomotic leakage rates were 22%, 22%, and 16% in Ivor-Lewis cases, and 14%, 12%, and 11% in McKeown cases. Hospital stay was 13, 14, and 13 days for Ivor-Lewis procedures, and 12, 9, and 11days for McKeown procedures. In Ivor-Lewis and McKeown, respectively, the sensitivity analysis revealed textbook outcome rates of 43%, 54%, and 51%, and 47%, 64%, and 64%; anastomotic leakage rates of 28%, 18%, and 15%, and 13%, 11%, and 10%; and hospital stay of 11, 12, and 12days, and 10, 9, and 9days. This study demonstrates favorable outcomes over time in achieving textbook outcome after RAMIE. Areas for improvement include a reduction of anastomotic leakage and shortening of hospital stay.

Characteristics and outcomes of pediatric brucellosis cases collected from a tertiary academic hospital in Saudi Arabia

Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease caused by Brucella spp., affecting different body systems and leading to multiple complications. Although brucellosis is prevalent in several regions, including Saudi Arabia, limited research has focused on childhood brucellosis. This study aimed to characterize the features and outcomes of brucellosis in pediatric patients. We conducted a retrospective descriptive study involving children (<18 years) with confirmed brucellosis (diagnosed through culture, serology, or both) who received antibiotic therapy. Subjects were stratified into two groups based on age: younger (≤8 years) and older (>8 years). We assessed treatment outcomes, including clinical cure, mortality, and hospital length of stay. A total of 20 patients were included, with 52.3% in the younger group and 47.7% in the older group. The majority were male (65%), with a mean age of 8.9 years, and 45% required hospitalization. Out of all the patients, only 6 (30%) reported consuming dairy products. Serologically, the baseline median antibody titers for Brucella melitensis and Brucella abortus were 1:1280 and 1:640, respectively. In the younger group, half reported arthralgia and presented with fever. While white blood cell elevation was not significant, C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and liver enzymes were elevated at baseline. The administered regimen varied, but about half of the patients received at least three antibiotics. All patients experienced clinical cures, and there were no deaths. This study highlights the characteristics of pediatric brucellosis in a country where the disease is endemic and provides evidence of positive prognosis associated with appropriate antibiotic therapy.

Integrating large language models in mental health practice: a qualitative descriptive study based on expert interviews

BackgroundProgress in developing artificial intelligence (AI) products represented by large language models (LLMs) such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT has sparked enthusiasm for their potential use in mental health practice. However, the perspectives on the integration of LLMs within mental health practice remain an underreported topic. Therefore, this study aimed to explore how mental health and AI experts conceptualize LLMs and perceive the use of integrating LLMs into mental health practice.MethodIn February–April 2024, online semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 experts (12 psychiatrists, 7 mental health nurses, 2 researchers in medical artificial intelligence) from four provinces in China, using snowballing and purposive selection sampling. Respondents’ discussions about their perspectives and expectations of integrating LLMs in mental health were analyzed with conventional content analysis.ResultsFour themes and eleven sub-themes emerged from this study. Firstly, participants discussed the (1) practice and application reform brought by LLMs into mental health (fair access to mental health services, enhancement of patient participation, improvement in work efficiency and quality), and then analyzed the (2) technological-mental health gap (misleading information, lack of professional nuance and depth, user risk). Based on these points, they provided a range of (3) prerequisites for the integration of LLMs in mental health (training and competence, guidelines for use and management, patient engagement and transparency) and expressed their (4) expectations for future developments (reasonable allocation of workload, upgrades and revamps of LLMs).ConclusionThese findings provide valuable insights into integrating LLMs within mental health practice, offering critical guidance for institutions to effectively implement, manage, and optimize these tools, thereby enhancing the quality and accessibility of mental health services.

Injury incidence, prevalence, and burden in an Argentinian male youth soccer academy: one-season descriptive study

ABSTRACT Objective To prospectively describe the incidence, severity, and burden of injuries in the youth divisions of an Argentinian professional soccer club during a competitive season. Methods 212 male soccer academy players were grouped by age categories and maturity offset as pre-peak height velocity (PHV), circa-PHV and post-PHV. Injury characteristics were recorded as the International Olympic Committee suggests. Results A total of 235 time-loss injuries were sustained by 101 different players. The overall injury incidence rate was of 5.8 injuries per 1000 hours (h), with a training and match injury incidence rate of 4.9 and 9.7 injuries per 1000 h, respectively. The prevalence over the season was 47%. Most of the injuries (202) affected the lower limbs (86.6%) and most of them were classified as muscle/tendon injuries (n = 117, 49.8%). Hamstring structural injury was the diagnosis with the highest burden in both circa and post-PHV groups. Conclusions The incidence, prevalence and injury burden reported in this study would add valuable information to Argentinians’ youth soccer institutions. Post-PHV players had higher incidence, severity and burden compared to circa-PHV. Structural/functional injuries to the muscle/tendon represented the highest burden for type of injuries (41.1 per 1000 h), suggesting a need for implementing preventive measures.

Understanding an emerging maker community in India: Socio-demographic traits, motivations, and satisfaction factors

Makerspaces are becoming increasingly popular due to their capacity for hands-on learning, innovation, collaboration, and the democratisation of technology. While numerous studies have explored makerspace users, they have largely focused on contexts within the Global North or China, leaving a significant gap in understanding the demographics and experiences of individuals who frequent these spaces in the Global South. The paper addresses this gap by understanding the factors influencing the motivations and satisfaction levels of an emerging community of makerspace users in India. Employing a cross-sectional survey methodology, data from 51 participants were collected via an online questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics and multivariate linear regression. Key findings indicate that access to specialised tools, expert guidance, and opportunities for personal and professional development are significant motivators for makerspace usage. Users expressed high satisfaction with the learning opportunities and resources provided. The study concludes that makerspaces play a crucial role in supporting innovation and professional growth in the Indian context, suggesting that policymakers and educators should consider these insights to enhance the effectiveness and reach of makerspaces, thus promoting broader innovation ecosystems. Future research should aim to include a more diverse participant pool to validate and expand upon these findings.

Searching for GEMS: Characterizing Six Giant Planets Around Cool Dwarfs

Transiting giant exoplanets around M-dwarf stars (GEMS) are rare, owing to the low-mass host stars. However, the all-sky coverage of TESS has enabled the detection of an increasingly large number of them to enable statistical surveys like the Searching for GEMS survey. As part of this endeavor, we describe the observations of six transiting giant planets, which include precise mass measurements for two GEMS (K2-419Ab, TOI-6034b) and statistical validation for four systems, which includes validation and mass upper limits for three of them (TOI-5218b, TOI-5616b, TOI-5634Ab), while the fourth one—TOI-5414b is classified as a “likely planet.” Our observations include radial velocities from the Habitable-zone Planet Finder on the Hobby–Eberly Telescope, and MAROON-X on Gemini-North, along with photometry and high-contrast imaging from multiple ground-based facilities. In addition to TESS photometry, K2-419Ab was also observed and statistically validated as part of the K2 mission in Campaigns 5 and 18, which provide precise orbital and planetary constraints despite the faint host star and long orbital period of ∼20.4 days. With an equilibrium temperature of only 380 K, K2-419Ab is one of the coolest known well-characterized transiting planets. TOI-6034 has a late F-type companion about 40″ away, making it the first GEMS host star to have an earlier main-sequence binary companion. These confirmations add to the existing small sample of confirmed transiting GEMS.

Comparison of Histopathology (Incisional Biopsy) Vs Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology in Diagnosing Tuberculous Cervical Lymphadenopathy

Objectives: To evaluate and compare the sensitivity and specificity between Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) and histopathology of incisional biopsy in diagnosing blood culture positive tuberculous lymphadenopathy (LAD). Methods: : This descriptive study was conducted in the Department of Pathology at Jinnah Teaching Hospital (JTH) Peshawar from January 2021 to August 2022. The study samples included were collected from thepatients at tertiary care Hospitals who were acid fast bacillus(AFB) positive and blood culture positive. The culture and sensitivity and Zn staining was carried out at JTH Peshawar. Seventy subjects with AFB and culture positive with high clinical suspicion of tuberculous LAD were included in the study. After the recruitment of subjects according to the inclusion criteria, subjects underwent FNAC followed by incisional biopsy for histopathology carried out at JTH Peshawar. Subjects’ blood was checked and screened for Hepatitis B and C, TLC, DLC and ESR at Microbiology and Haematology laboratories of JTH Peshawar respectively. The data was then organised and analysed in SPSS software version. 26. Results: Out of the seventy subjects included in the study, 30 were males while 40 were females. Subjects had a mean age of 33.5 years. The sensitivity of FNAC was 89%, however the Specificity came out to be 59%. Conclusion: Our study obviates the use of FNAC as a good screening test however due to the low specificity or in cases where there is a high clinical suspicion of TB, the results need to be confirmed by Incisional biopsy for histopathology. However, further studies are required for not only understanding the medical condition.

Analisis Pengaruh Kelengkapan Produk dan Promosi Penjualan Terhadap Keputusan Pembelian Konsumen di Transmart KarawanG

The research was conducted at Transmart Karawang. In the current era of globalization, demand from consumers is increasing so as to provide profitable potential for the business world. A survey was conducted on the customer value index of 10 stores in Indonesia, one of the retail companies that is experiencing these problems is Transmart which occupies the fourth position. Reporting from kompas.com, it is said that at least 12 Transmart outlets will be permanently closed throughout 2022. The problem of declining sales levels at Transmart Karawang, as evidenced by the decreasing number of customers visiting the store, is the main subject of this study. This phenomenon is believed to arise due to consumer skepticism about their purchasing choices, which are influenced by product completeness and sales promotions. The purpose of this observation is to understand how product completeness and sales promotion affect consumer purchasing decisions at Transmart Karawang. Translated with DeepL.com (free version)The subjects of this research are consumers or customers of Transmart Karawang. The research methodology used quantitative and survey methodologies. The applied data sources include main data and supporting data, while the applied data collection techniques include questionnaires, face-to-face interactions, observations, and literature studies. A research sample of 99 respondents was selected from a population of 8422 using the Slovin formula. This research utilizes multiple linear regression analysis methodology using SPSS version 27.0 software to evaluate the effect of product completeness and sales promotion on purchasing decisions at Transmart Karawang. The research findings show that 82.9% of consumers in Transmart Karawang are influenced in their purchasing choices by the presence of product completeness and purchase promotions. A total of 17.1% of the evaluation was influenced by unresolved issues in this study.

Factors associated with adherence to preventive measures against COVID-19, among adult Bahraini residents

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a life-altering experience. It compelled individuals to alter their attitudes and habits and adopt measures to prevent the risks of infection. This research discusses factors that determine adherence to these measures, with the aim of enhancing compliance in future pandemics. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using snowball non-random sampling through an online Qualtrics survey targeting Bahraini residents, aged 18 and older. The sample included 1,008 participants, and data were analyzed using SPSS, and presented in tables and graphs. The majority of the participants were Bahraini females with a bachelor’s degree, between the ages of 20–29 (43.2%). Awareness of COVID-19 transmission was high, with 87.7%. The adherence rates for preventive measures were high: mask usage at 98.8%, hygiene practices at 93.7%, and social distancing at 92.2%. Older adults aged 50 + showed the highest consistency in compliance (p = 0.001). Individuals with chronic diseases were more likely to adhere to mask use (p < 0.001). Conversely, those experiencing negative emotions about social distancing were more likely to visit crowded places (p = 0.031), indicating a psychological barrier. Mask use exhibited the highest adherence at 98.8%, while overall compliance was notably high among educated and retired individuals. Public health campaigns should target younger demographics with education about crowded spaces and address emotional barriers to social distancing. Future strategies can be tailored to promote adherence among diverse populations, enhancing community resilience against pandemics.

Birth Asphyxia Prevalence and Related Factors in Live Births at University Hospital, Tripoli, Libya

Birth asphyxia is the cause of about one-third of newborn deaths at University Hospital's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). On the other hand, the precise burden of birth asphyxia has not been supported by modern scientific research. The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of birth asphyxia and its associated variables in the NICU of University Hospital in Tripoli, Libya. A descriptive cross-sectional study including 182 mother-newborn pairs delivered at a maternity ward was carried out on the sample. From January 1, 2020, until December 30, 2022, every other mother's newborn was included. Data were gathered using a checklist and a pre-tested structured questionnaire. 28.5% of cases had asphyxia [95% CI: 26.51, 35.24%]. The final model showed that birth asphyxia was positively associated at 95% CI with fetal malpresentation (AOR = 6.96: 3.16, 15.30), rupture of fetal membranes preterm (AOR = 6.30, 95% CI: 2.45, 16.22), meconium-stained amniotic fluid (AOR = 7.15: 3.07, 16.66), and vacuum delivery (AOR = 6.21: 2.62, 14.73). The occurrence of birth asphyxia continues to be a significant public health concern. Consequently, to avoid birth asphyxia due to difficulties such as fetal mal-presentation, premature fetal membrane rupture, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, and vacuum delivery, the current emergency obstetric and newborn care efforts should be reinforced.

Ensuring accessibility and inclusion in the 1·1·2 emergency line. Mediation between life and death

In a Europe without borders, there is a quintessential emergency hotline that serves its citizens when their lives are at risk: 1·1·2. The Valencian Community (Spain) receives many visitors each year who, together with the migrant population, make use of this free public service in several languages. The main aim of this paper is to revise the legal framework that regulates the linguistic provisions in the Emergency Call Reception Centre (ECRC) to determine how accessibility and inclusion are guaranteed for speakers of foreign languages. In an attempt to analyse this reality, the aims of this descriptive and qualitative study are twofold. On the one hand, it examines the most common types of incidents received during the year 2021 (in English, French, and German); and, on the other hand, it focuses on how these calls are managed to ensure effective communication between the visitors that come from other countries and the authorities in the Valencian region.

Perceived Organizational Support and Work Engagement in Malaysian Banking Industry

This study focuses on the predictive effect of Perceived Organizational Support (POS) to Work Engagement (WE) in the Malaysian Banking Industry, Peninsular Malaysia. The population in this study were all employees employed in Malaysian banking industry. The method used in this research is quantitative descriptive studies using a simple descriptive approach and Structural Equation Modelling- Partial Least Squared (SMART PLS-3) analysis to test the study hypotheses. This study found that the hypotheses is supported which show the direct relationship between the perceived organizational support and work engagement. Perceived organizational support is the belief of employees that if managers are concerned about their employees' commitment to the organisation, employees will be concerned about the organization's commitment to them. The implication of this study is that employers should ensure the employees knows that they are getting support in workplace from organization as this will affect their work engagement at workplace as this may affect their performance.

Effects of Family Caregiver-Nurse Communication on Family Management and Family Caregiver Uncertainty Regarding the Care of Children With Long-Term Ventilator Dependence.

Nurses caring for hospitalized children with long-term ventilator dependence (LTVD) assess family management capability and teach new skills through communication with family caregivers. This theoretically-based quantitative, descriptive study aimed to determine the communication behaviors associated with family caregiver uncertainty and management of the child with LTVD's care after discharge. One hundred families and 48 nurses enrolled. Family caregiver-nurse conversations were recorded and transcripts coded for communication behaviors. Family management and uncertainty data were gathered during hospitalization and after discharge. Data analysis included correlations and linear mixed models. Family caregivers and nurses used advocating and negotiating roles communication behaviors least frequently; however, these communication behaviors were associated with the most aspects in terms of uncertainty about the child's condition and ease of management of the child's care after discharge to home. Nurses should assess family caregiver ease in managing care, provide support, and engage in collaborative problem-solving through respectful communication.

Community Nursing Practice in Hypertension Management in China: Qualitative Analysis Using a Bourdieusian Framework.

This study explores the practices of Chinese community nurses in hypertension management, using Pierre Bourdieu's theory of practice to understand how their routines are shaped by sociocultural and institutional forces, along with their professional dispositions. A qualitative descriptive study was conducted in Shenzhen, China, between March and June 2024, and is reported following the COREQ guidelines. Eighteen nurses, each with at least 1 year of full-time experience in hypertension care within the local community healthcare system, were recruited from a participant pool established through prior research. Face-to-face individual semistructured interviews were conducted using a structured interview protocol, and data were analyzed through thematic analysis. Community nurses face tensions between traditional health beliefs and modern hypertension care, as well as institutional pressures that prioritize efficiency over personalized care. Power imbalances, particularly the authority of doctors, complicate their role. However, nurses adapt their care strategies through embodied practices, balancing clinical standards with patient needs. Community nurses are not mere enforcers of guidelines but adaptive professionals who navigate complex sociocultural norms, institutional demands, and power dynamics in hypertension care. This study underscores the necessity for flexible, culturally sensitive practices to improve public health outcomes.

CONSERVATION AND ARCHIVING MEDICAL RECORDS IN SELECTED HOSPITALS IN YAOUNDÉ

Introduction: Medical records play an important role in the storage and recall of patient’s information, patient’s follow-up, research, teaching, public health policy making and as a medico-legal tool, but less emphasis has been placed on its role in health care delivery. The objective of the study was to appraise the methods of conservation and archiving of medical records in hospitals in the city of Yaoundé.Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was done in the hospitals of Yaoundé between January to June 2023. The Data which was collected from medical record clerks using a self-administered and pre-tested questionnaire included: The profile of the health institution, personal information of the clerks, strategies put in place for the protection of medical records and obstacles in archiving.Results: Twenty hospitals in the city of Yaoundé participated in the study. The public sector represented 65% of the health facilities, 45% had been existing between 21 and 40 years, with a median of 24.5 years. In 70% of the cases, medical records archiving system had been existing between 1 and 10years. In 65% of cases, the conservation of archived records was mainly done at the different services with the paediatric service being the most represented (16.2%). In 87.5% of cases, the means of archiving used was the paper file classified on shelves (73.5%); of which (52.2%) were archived in alphabetical order. The obstacles to archiving medical records were mainly the lack of qualified personnel (82.4%) and the lack of storage space (80.1%).Conclusion: Many obstacles were observed. These results suggest actions to be generated both by the Cameroonian State and by the leaders of private health facilities in order to improve the management of medical records.