General Nurses Research Articles

An Acceptability and Feasibility Study of a Nurse-Led Model of Contraception and Abortion Care in Rural General Practice.

To assess the acceptability and perceived feasibility of integrating a co-designed nurse-led model of contraception and medication abortion care within rural and regional general practices. Qualitative exploratory design utilising Sidani and Braden's indicators of acceptability and feasibility. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 12 practice nurses, 8 general practitioners and 3 practice managers who currently or previously worked in rural, regional or remote general practice. Participants were recruited purposively through social media, partner organisation newsletters and snowballing. During the interview, participants were presented with an overview of the co-designed model of care and asked specific questions to gain feedback on its acceptability and perceived feasibility. Data were analysed in NVivo using template analysis and iterative categorisation. Findings were mapped according to Sidani and Braden's indicators of acceptability and feasibility. Three overarching themes were identified: nurses are acceptable providers, factors influencing the feasibility of the model and factors supporting greater feasibility of the model. Participants found the nurse-led model acceptable, describing nurses as suitable and sometimes preferred providers of long-acting reversible contraception and abortion care in rural and regional settings. They also perceived the model as feasible, citing similarities to existing care processes such as infant immunisations and chronic disease management, contributing to its feasibility. However, contextual factors such as the need to adapt the model to each clinic and patient's unique needs, foster strong general practitioner-practice nurse professional relationships and ensure that staff have shared values and adequate training for contraception and abortion provision were described as critical for feasibility. Overall, participants found the nurse-led model of care to be acceptable and feasible for implementation in rural and regional general practices. This perception carries important implications for policy and practice, highlighting the need for supportive policies to enhance the effectiveness of such models across Australian general practice. Our findings emphasise the need for initiatives aimed at addressing inadequate funding for nurse-led care, improving documentation of this care, enhancing understanding among general practitioners and nurses regarding the scope of practice for practice nurses, and overcoming training barriers specific to rural areas. These measures are essential for enabling nurse-led models of contraception and medication abortion to function effectively in practice. This paper is reported according to the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) guidelines. Two consumer representatives contributed to the development of the co-design methodology as members of the ORIENT Intervention Advisory Group Governance Committee.

Navigating vaccine confidence: A mixed methods study investigating healthcare providers' perspectives across four non-EU European regions.

Vaccine confidence remains a global public health challenge, especially highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Public trust in vaccines is crucial, with healthcare providers (HCPs) playing a pivotal role in navigating this sensitive topic. This requires an understanding of HCPs' perceptions of vaccines. Most European studies focus solely on the 27 EU countries, with sparse evidence available among other European countries. This study aims to expand the scope of HCPs' vaccine confidence oversight into European regions where limited research has been conducted thus far. The study employed a mixed-methods approach to examine vaccine confidence among HCPs (general practitioners and nurses) in six European countries outside of the EU: North Macedonia, Bosnia & Herzegovina (Balkans), Belarus (Eastern Europe), Armenia, Georgia (Caucasus), and Kazakhstan (Central Asia). Quantitative surveys (N=600) assessed vaccine confidence levels and recommendation practices, which were analyzed using SPSS. Qualitative interviews (N=30) provided deeper insights into HCPs' perceptions of vaccination, role, and training needs, and were processed using NVivo. Findings revealed varying levels of vaccine confidence among HCPs across the six countries. The quantitative survey indicated disparities in confidence levels, with Belarus and Kazakhstan exhibiting notably lower confidence in vaccines. North Macedonia stands out as the country where HCPs are most confident about their role in encouraging vaccination, while the remaining five countries share similar lower levels. Qualitative interviews provided deeper insights into HCP perspectives, highlighting the complexities of tailoring recommendations and the collaborative decision-making process. HCPs expressed a clear need for training on vaccination, particularly in understanding effective doctor-patient communication. These findings underscore the value of implementing targeted interventions to support HCPs, for example by providing training in vaccination knowledge and communication to improve their confidence in addressing patient concerns about vaccination. Ultimately, responding to skills and knowledge needs, this can contribute to improved vaccine acceptance.

Effectiveness of Structured Teaching Programme on Knowledge Regarding Advance Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Among Final Year GNM Students Studying in Sions College of Nursing, Bagalkot

Background of the study: Nurses frequently encounter emergencies, including cardiac emergencies, both in and out of hospital. In these situations, nurses are considered important leaders among healthcare professionals who can perform BLS. Research suggests that effective first aid and BLS techniques by physicians in emergency situations can impact morbidity and mortality from cardiac arrest. However, both knowledge and skills have been shown to decline over time, with ALS skills deteriorating faster than BLS skills. This highlights the need for continuing education and the use of resources to support these skills. Aims: The aim of the study was to assess effectiveness of structured teaching programme on knowledge regarding advance cardiac life support (ACLS) among final year GNM Students Studying in SIONS College of nursing, Bagalkot. Methodology: This was qualitative pre-experimental one group pre-test post-test research design. The sample size comprises of 80 final years General Nursing and Midwifery students studying at Sajjalashree Institute of Nursing Science Navanagar Bagalkot. The sampling technique adopted for this study will be simple random technique by using lottery method. In the present study the data will be collected by self-made structured knowledge questionnaires. The data will be analysed by using descriptive and inferential statistics. Numerical data obtained from the sample was organized and summarized with the help of descriptive statistics like percentages, mean, standard deviation and Chi-square test. Result: The finding revealed that level of knowledge regarding advance cardiac life support among final year GNM students. The level of knowledge was 6 (7.5%) of students were having poor knowledge scores in pre-test, 74 (92.5%) students were having the moderate knowledge scores and no one students were have adequate knowledge scores. In post-test 61 (76.25%) students were having moderate knowledge scores, 19 (23.75%) students were having ...

Evaluation of the initial rollout of the physical activity referral standards policy in Scotland: a qualitative study

ObjectivesPhysical activity referral schemes (PARS) allow healthcare professionals to refer patients for physical activity support. Evidence of effectiveness is equivocal. Public Health Scotland has developed ‘physical activity referral standards’ that...

Percepções de enfermeiros hondurenhos sobre a qualidade do atendimento a pacientes com AVC: um estudo qualitativo

Objective: to explore the nurses’ perceptions among the quality of care to stroke patients in a public hospital in Northern Honduras. Method: a descriptive phenomenological study was carried out. The data collection was conducted by means of depth- interviews to 20 general nurses from the emergency and clinical medicine departments from the Atlántida General Hospital. Data analysis was by thematic technique. Results: the research found three key themes, and 10 subthemes, which illustrated the quality of stroke patients care in a general hospital from Honduras. The finding points up the theme “negative outcomes regarding the structure dimension of the patient care units”, which means the failure to improve or maintain the quality of healthcare. Likewise, “positive outcomes regarding the nursing process”, defined as pleasant and helpful among the care of stroke patients, such as ethical and humanized caring, and activities on promoting patient self-care with involvement of the relatives. Conclusion: the results indicate that Honduran nurses do not have qualified graduate training in critical care, which is a limitation that compromises the quality of care. Therefore, it is recommended to have clear organization structures and better resources managing, consequently, it may increase user satisfaction, as well as reducing hospital stays.

Knowledge of dementia: A cross-sectional survey of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members and health-care workers providing care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

To examine (1) the knowledge of dementia among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members and health-care workers providing care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; (2) the factors associated with higher levels of knowledge about dementia. An online cross-sectional survey was conducted. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members were recruited through social media advertisements and an online market research platform. Health-care workers (general practitioners, nurses, Aboriginal health workers and allied health professionals) were recruited via emailed invitations from a peak body and a community service organisation. Participants answered an online survey containing 34 true/false items examining knowledge of dementia. Separate linear regressions were used to examine the factors associated with higher levels of knowledge about dementia among community members and health-care workers. Two hundred and twenty individuals (74 community members and 146 health-care workers) participated. The overall mean knowledge of dementia score for all participants was 26.80 (SD = 4.43). Health-care workers had higher knowledge (M = 27.23, SD = 4.66) than community members (M = 25.96, SD = 3.82, p = .04). Community members with higher levels of education answered 6% (95% CI 1%-11%) more items correctly than participants with lower levels of education. General practitioners and nurses had significantly higher knowledge of dementia; however, health-care workers who provided care to a family member or friend living with dementia had significantly lower knowledge of dementia. Novel approaches are needed to increase knowledge of dementia amongst both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members and health-care workers who provide care to ensure culturally sensitive and effective support.

Health Professionals’ Recommendations for a Malaysian Dementia Plan

ABSTRACT About 8.5% of Malaysians have dementia. However, current national policies and practice guidelines for older adults do not specifically address issues and key action areas for the implementation of a Malaysian dementia plan. Therefore, this study aims to identify key priorities for the development of a Malaysian dementia plan based on healthcare professionals’ recommendations, ensuring quality and accessible nationwide care for individuals with dementia. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 healthcare professionals, including general practitioners, geriatricians, neurologists, pharmacists, nutritionists, occupational therapists, nurses, and psychologists. Thematic analysis revealed four key priorities for a Malaysian dementia plan: (1) Public Awareness and Destigmatization of Dementia, (2) Early Detection of Dementia, (3) Establishing Efficient Care Pathways, (4) Support For Carers and Family Members. The findings highlight the complexity of dementia care, emphasizing medical, rehabilitative, psychosocial, and societal needs. The emphasis on healthcare professionals’ perspectives in this study underscores the importance of including individuals with dementia, their families, and carers as participants in future research.

Delphi study and qualitative analysis to establish domains, core competencies, and content in forensic nursing pedagogy

BACKGROUND: The American Nurses Association designated forensic nursing (FN) a specialty in 1995. Nursing schools subsequently adopted Lynch's theoretical framework. Inconsistent sub-specialty-focused graduate education emerged, creating difficult-to-compare early programs of study. AIMS: Update FN domains, descriptions of and context for FN practices, core competencies, and sub-competencies with content for graduate curricula, align FN with new AACN Essentials, and create a certification foundation. METHODS: Methods include the mini-Delphi design (Estimate-Talk-Estimate), with Nominal Group Techniques methods, Cognitive Task Analysis, and NVivo™ qualitative analysis of experts' virtual recordings. The FN sample (N=126) included educators-clinicians, who gathered face-to-face (2002-4, 2014) and virtually (2020-22). RESULTS: The 2002-04 results informed the 2014 meeting, validating major knowledge pillars (legal foundations, forensic science, and nursing science). Analysis of 2020-2022 data named key domains, descriptions of and context for practice, core competencies, sub-competencies, concepts, and content in forensic nurse science and practice. The research included qualitative analysis of participant conversations, naming key content for each pillar. CONCLUSIONS: The 20-year Delphi study transformed knowledge integration for competent future Generalist and Advanced Forensic Nurse education and practice. The study confirmed Lynch’s thesis, three pillars of knowledge, and aligned FN core competencies with AACN Essentials and other national nursing publications, naming common practices, essential for all FNs. The study’s derivation of scientific content, important for certifications, arose from qualitative analysis of expert conversations, implying that as FN science evolves, the diverse practice roles of the FN mature with a common and basic core for application in all FN practices.

Perspectives of general practitioners and practice nurses on nurse-led patient consultations and dose changes of permanent medications-results of a focus group study.

Shifting tasks from General practitioners (GPs) to practice nurses (PNs) could help address the shortage of GPs in Europe. Internationally, PN-led care (PNLC) is feasible and offers similar health outcomes to usual care. However, PN-led consultations (PN-cons) or as PN-led dosage changes for permanent medication (PN-DCPM) are uncommon in German general practice offices (GPO). To explore GPs' and PNs' views on the feasibility and acceptability of PN-cons and PN-DCPM in GPOs. In this exploratory, qualitative online focus group study, we recruited GPs, GP trainees, PNs and specialized PNs (APN) currently working in German GPO using a qualitative sampling plan. We used a semi-structured self-developed interview guide. Separate focus groups (FGs) were performed for each profession, with audio and video recordings, and the transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. Two FGs comprising 15 GPs and three FGs with 26 PNs revealed four major themes: (i) Attitudes towards PN-cons and PN-DCPM, revealing that participants were generally open towards a PN-cons, but were more reserved towards PN-DCPM. (ii) Acceptable reasons for encounters for PN-cons, e.g. diabetes or hypertension, and acceptable medications for PN-DCPM, e.g. antidiabetics, antihypertensive drugs. (iii) Conditions mentioned for implementing PN-led care were e.g. adequate qualification and supervision concepts. (iv) Perceived chances were e.g. time savings and increased quality of care and perceived risks were e.g. fear of treatment errors. Participants showed openness towards PN-cons and were more reserved towards PN-DCPM in German GPO. Further quantitative studies should assess how acceptance and rejection of PN-led care are distributed among patients, GPs, and PNs.

Investigating the differential efficacy of lecture and demonstration teaching methods in teaching medical-surgical nursing among nursing students

Medical-surgical nursing is one of the core courses in general nursing, through which nursing students acquire skills for clinical practice. Medical-surgical nurses work in diverse clinical areas and specialisations to deliver the highest quality care with a view to preserving life, improving health status, and maintaining client health throughout their lifetimes by using an appropriate skill that is better acquired from school through appropriate teaching methods. Hence the need to choose a suitable teaching method to educate the would-be nurses. This study examined the differential efficacy of lecture and demonstration methods for teaching medical-surgical nursing courses in BUTH Ogbomoso with a view to improving the academic performance of nursing students in medical-surgical nursing courses. An experimental research method was used; stratified random sampling was employed to select seventy participants; a pretest was conducted, followed by intervention, and then a post-test. Frequency distribution table, pie chart, bar charts, means, two-tail ANOVA, and t-test were used to analyse the result. Findings revealed that there was a significant difference in the mean score between the two studied groups with a P value of 0.000 < 0.05. It is therefore recommended that medical-surgical nursing educators should not only use the lecture method but employ the demonstration method in teaching medical-surgical nursing. There is a need to equip skill laboratories in the nursing institution for learning.

The Wound Care Pathway: a Danish effect study.

To investigate how the implementation and training in the WCP affects the behaviour of generalist nurses, focusing on four specific endpoints: motivation, confidence, critical thinking and knowledge. A total of 89 generalist nurses received 6 hours of training in the WCP, over a period of 10-16 weeks. The participants filled a questionnaire before and after the training. Data were collected between January 2023 and January 2024. There was a significant improvement in the participants' wound care knowledge, motivation and self-efficacy. The participants' confidence in their wound care skills also increased after the training. A notable improvement was seen in nurses' critical thinking when treating wounds and delivering wound care. The WCP guide supports healthcare professionals in their day-to-day work and strengthens their critical thinking and knowledge of wound care management.

Effectiveness of the Sub-Acute Care for Frail Elderly (SAFE) Transitional Care Unit on Short-Term Functional Independence in Frail Older Patients Discharged from Hospital.

Transitional care programs help improve continuity of care and post-discharge outcomes for frail older adults who are hospitalized. In this study, we examined the effectiveness of a transitional care model, based in a long-term care (LTC) home, on the functional independence of older hospitalized patients post-discharge. We used a propensity-score matched cohort, whereby cases comprised patients who were admitted to a transitional care program-called the Sub-Acute Care for Frail Elderly (SAFE) Unit-following a hospitalization between March 1, 2018 and June 30, 2019. Controls were matched to Usual Care patients discharged from hospitals within the same health region and accrual period who did not receive transitional care in the SAFE Unit. Outcomes included acute care, LTC, and home care use within six-month post-discharge. Compared to Usual Care, SAFE Unit patients were less likely to be admitted into an LTC home (RR 0.44, 95% CI 0.23-0.86) within six months post-discharge. Additionally, on average, SAFE Unit patients spent 34 fewer days in LTC homes than controls. SAFE Unit patients also incurred significantly fewer home care service days (median: 52 days, IQR: 12-132 days) than Usual Care patients (median: 65.5 days, IQR: 19-158 days), particularly in terms of their reliance on general nursing and personal support. Both groups had similar risks of six-month hospital readmission and having an ED visit. Rehabilitative and restorative-focused care provided through transitional programs, such as the SAFE Unit, have the potential to enable independent living for older hospitalized patients discharged to the community.

General Hospital Nurses' Experience and Perception of Person-Centered Care: A Phenomenological Study.

This study explored the general hospital nurses' experiences and perceptions of providing person-centered care using a Giorgi's phenomenological approach. Through purposive sampling, 10 nurses were selected from five general hospitals in Korea. We identified 83 codes, which were integrated into 17 subconstituents and further into four constituents: "A comprehensive approach based on love for humanity," "Providing customized nursing care through an individual approach," "Building the expertise required as a nurse," and "Challenges to actual nursing practice." These findings are valuable for understanding general hospital nurses' in-depth experiences providing person-centered care and their perceptions. Despite numerous challenges, nurses in general hospitals are attempting to deliver person-centered care comprehensively and tailored based on their expertise. Current challenges can be overcome by raising awareness about providing person-centered care in general hospitals and enhancing systems to minimize workloads. The results of this will be a crucial foundation for developing educational programs to increase nurses' understanding of person-centered care and encourage their practice. Furthermore, it will be useful in suggesting future directions for altering the nursing workforce or scope of work.

Association between serum uric acid and prediabetes in a normal Chinese population: A cross-sectional study.

Cardiovascular events are frequent among individuals with prediabetes. And the relationship between cardiovascular diseases and elevated serum uric acid (SUA) levels has been supported by extensive scientific evidence. However, there remains controversy regarding the correlation between elevated SUA and prediabetes. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between elevated SUA levels and the prevalence of prediabetes and gender differences in the association. A total of 190,891 individuals who participated in health checkups at the Health Promotion Center of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital of Zhejiang University from January 2017 to December 2021 were included in this cross-sectional study. The health checkups were carried out by trained general practitioners and nurses. The diagnostic criteria for diabetes and prediabetes are defined in the Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes-2022. The association between SUA levels and diabetes and prediabetes was examined based on logistic regression analysis. The dose-response effect between SUA levels and diabetes and prediabetes in both sexes was assessed using a restricted cubic spline (RCS) regression model. Among 190,891 participants, this study included 106,482 males (55.8%) and 84,409 females (44.2%). There were 46,240 (24.2%) patients with prediabetes and 20,792 (10.9%) patients with diabetes. SUA was divided into quartiles (Q). Compared to the SUA Q1 group, the prevalence of prediabetes was elevated in the SUA Q4 group (OR = 1.378, 95% CI = 1.321-1.437), but diabetes risk was decreased in the SUA Q4 group (OR = 0.690, 95% CI = 0.651-0.730). We found that SUA levels were correlated with prediabetes more significantly in male subjects (OR = 1.328, 95% CI = 1.272-1.386) than in female subjects (OR = 1.184, 95% CI = 1.122-1.249) (P for interaction < .001). Higher SUA levels were strongly related to an elevated prevalence of prediabetes but a decreased prevalence of diabetes. The association of SUA in prediabetes was more significant in men.

Evaluating the use of 3D skin models as simulation-based educational tools among nursing students: A quasi-experimental study

BackgroundTeaching dermatology is challenging because of its' highly visible and tactile nature. While images improve visual memory and are valuable teaching aids, even high-quality photographs have limitations in what they can convey. AimOur aim is to validate the use of silicone-based 3D skin models as simulation-based educational tools by assessing their impact on recognition of various skin conditions among nursing students. Design and settingsA quasi-experimental, two-groups study was conducted in a Higher Education Institute in Ireland. ParticipantsParticipants were third-year undergraduate nursing students enrolled in a bachelor's programme in General Nursing or Children's and General Nursing, registered for a general module. We included 153 participants, 79 were in the control group and 74 were in the interventional group. MethodsNursing students rotated individually among stations to observe both 3D skin models and photographs of the models. At each station, students completed an answer sheet including questions on identifying skin categories and conditions, along with a validated scale to assess satisfaction, confidence, and realism in using these models. Each station illustrated five skin conditions using either models or photographs. Both groups visited both stations; only the sequence of visits varied between them. ResultsThe 3D skin models significantly improved nursing students' identification of the papulosquamous skin category (47.8 % interventional group and 24.4 % control group, p = 0.003). Additionally, students exposed to the models had higher scores for categorisation (mean ranks; 85.05 interventional group and 69.46 control group, p = 0.023). Qualitative data revealed students' favourable perceptions of the 3D models as effective learning tools, particularly their realism and sensory aspects. ConclusionsSuggestions for model improvements, including skin tone and positioning on the body, are likely to enhance effectiveness. Integrating 3D skin models into nursing education curricula is highly recommended to enhance nursing students' dermatology skills and clinical skin assessment.

Anxiety Score in Anxiety Patients Using Slow Deep Breathing Relaxation Therapy

Anxiety problems experienced can be caused by situations or conditions that a person will face that are considered threatening and endangering themselves so that pharmacological treatment is needed, namely in the form of antianxiety and non-pharmacological. Nonpharmacological therapy in generalist nurses that can be given to anxiety patients includes slow deep breathing. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of slow deep breathing relaxation therapy on anxiety scores in anxiety patients in the Limboto Health Center working area. The research method used pre-experimental with one group pre-post test design. The study population was patients with anxiety who were in the Limboto Puskesmas working area. The sample in this study was the total population of 15 people. Based on the results showed that the average score of symptoms before slow deep breathing relaxation was 25.73 with a standard deviation of 1.668 and the average score after slow deep breathing relaxation was 15.33 with a standard deviation of 3.222, and the p-value obtained was 0.001 (&lt;α 0.05), meaning that there was an effect of slow deep breathing relaxation therapy on anxiety scores in anxiety patients in the Limboto Puskesmas Working Area.

The perspectives of people living with dementia and their carers on the role of the general practice nurse in dementia care provision: a qualitative study.

Background Models that optimise the role of the general practice nurse have the potential to deliver cost-effective best-practice dementia care in the primary care setting. Patient experience is recognised as a vital contribution to the design, provision and evaluation of healthcare services. The aim of this study was to gain insights into the healthcare needs and experiences of people living with dementia and carers as relevant to the provision of dementia care by general practice nurses. Methods A qualitative design with semi-structured interviews was employed. Data were transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed. Six carers and five people living with dementia who received care from a general practice nurse in the previous 12months took part in the study. Results Five overarching themes were identified: (1) the general practice nurse and dementia care: a golden opportunity, (2) respectful communication: talk to me and hear what I am saying, (3) person-centred information: tell me what I want to know, (4) provide support: more than just information provision, and (5) include the carer: we are a team. Conclusion This study describes the experiences and healthcare needs of people living with dementia and their carer(s) with regard to the general practice nurse role. These findings can inform strategies to support the general practice nurse provision of dementia care that meet the healthcare needs of people living with dementia and carers.

Integrating digital behavioural therapy for insomnia into primary care: A feasibility mixed-methods study.

Digital cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia has been developed to increase capacity and scalability for patients with insomnia, but implementation in primary care remains limited. The aim of the trial was to evaluate the implementation of digital insomnia therapy into primary care practice for patients with insomnia. We conducted a single-arm feasibility trial of digital behavioural therapy for insomnia (SleepFix) providing sleep restriction therapy with insomnia patients in primary care. Healthcare professionals (comprising General Practitioners, community pharmacists and nurses) were enrolled into the trial and, when deemed clinically appropriate, prescribed SleepFix to patients with insomnia. The primary outcome was uptake assessed by the number of downloads of SleepFix. Interviews with primary care healthcare professionals explored their attitudes towards implementing/using insomnia digital therapeutics in clinical practice, and patients about their experiences with SleepFix. Insomnia symptoms, mood and sleep quality were measured before and after the trial. This trial was prospectively registered (ACTRN12620000055909). Thirty healthcare professionals and 105 patients were enrolled into the trial. Fourteen healthcare professionals administered at least one insomnia digital therapeutic prescription between November 2021 and March 2022. Fifty patients downloaded and used SleepFix (47.6% uptake). In post-trial interviews, healthcare professionals felt they could incorporate digital sleep health into clinical practice and patients found SleepFix acceptable. There were significant improvements in insomnia symptoms, mood and sleep quality at week 6 (all p < 0.05). This trial shows a real-world implementation of a digital insomnia therapy into primary care that could provide a framework for prescribing digital sleep interventions.

EVALUATION OF ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION AMONG NURSING STUDENTS OVER THE COURSE OF A YEAR

Introduction: Anxiety and depression observed in young people are associated with poor quality of life during college, not only in terms of poor eating and lifestyle habits, but also the inability to deal with problems associated with college and their future profession. Each stage of life, with its due concerns and questions, interferes in the level of overload and pressure among college students. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the levels of anxiety and depression among nursing students at a public university in the interior of Paraná, at three different times, over the course of one year. Method: This is a quantitative, descriptive, exploratory study with a longitudinal design. Data collection took place at three different times throughout the year (March, July and November) of 2019, using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), validated for Brazil to assess anxiety and depression, as well as an instrument for sociodemographic and academic characterization of the subjects, constructed and validated (face, content and semantics) for this study, by experts in the area of ​​education and mental health. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed for the variables of interest, as well as the calculation of Cronbach's alpha to assess the internal consistency of the items of the HADS scale. Student's t-test, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and one-way ANOVA with repeated measures were used to compare the measures of anxiety and depression, as well as with sociodemographic and academic variables among the students, throughout the three evaluations. Results: Among the 77 participating students, 92.2% were women with a mean age of 21 years; 15.4% were married; 74.6% declared themselves to be Catholic; 65.8% declared themselves to be good students. Age and the fact of having a subject dependency were considered statistically significant when compared between the years of the course. Anxiety averages in the three measures, respectively, for general nursing: 10.0; 9.9; and 9.5, not being considered statistically significant. And for depression: 7.1; 7.4; 7.1 being statistically significant for the third evaluation. There was no statistically significant variation between the evaluation of anxiety and depression levels in the three measures. Conclusion: The levels of anxiety and depression evaluated by HADS, in the General Nursing group were not so expressive quantitatively, but are still higher than other studies involving nursing and/or health area university students. Data from the study indicated no difference in anxiety and depression levels, at different times, throughout the year. Not having reached the population of academics of the course in question, as a whole, in the evaluations carried out, was one of the limitations of the study.New studies are being carried out to try to explain the variations in anxiety and depression levels among students on the Nursing course in question, with methodological approaches that allow the subject studied to have a voice.

Factors Associated with the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Primary Healthcare Workers Regarding Neglected Tropical Diseases with Skin Manifestations in the Dakar Region, Senegal, 2022.

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) with skin manifestations present a significant health and societal problems challenge worldwide. This study aimed to analyzed factors associated with the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAPs) of primary healthcare workers (HCW) concerning NTDs with skin manifestations in the Dakar region of Senegal. We conducted a cross-sectional study utilizing a semi-structured questionnaire which was administered to eligible HCW (general practitioners, nurses and midwives) working at the 24 health centers located in the Dakar region. Data were collected using the ODK Collect application (version 2022.3.6). KAPs measures were constructed from questionnaire responses, and bivariate analysis was used to identify associated factors. Of the 187 HCW surveyed, 75.9% were female, with a mean age of 35.1 years (SD: 8.56). The majority of HCWs had a bachelor's degree (40.6%), were nurses (49.2%) and had between 1- and 10-years of professional experience (52.4%). Regarding their knowledge of NTDs with skin manifestations, only 43.3% of HCW had received initial training on NTDs. The most commonly reported NTDs with skin manifestations were leprosy (53.5%), lymphatic filariasis (51.3%), scabies (49.7%), onchocerciasis (45.5%) and schistosomiasis (42.8%). Television was the main source of information about these NTDs (38.5%). In term of practices, only 47.6% of HCW reported being able to diagnose NTDs with skin. Factors associated with good knowledge regarding NTDs with skin manifestations included having received training on NTDs (p = 0.0015) and more years of professional experience (p = 0.004). In summary, there is a need to strengthen and raise awareness about NTDs with skin manifestations among HCWs and promote quality management of patients in Senegal.