Observation Checklist Research Articles

Cooperative, Collaborative Learning Enhances Students’ Ability to Improve Their Oral Communication in an English Classroom

This study examines the effectiveness of cooperative and collaborative learning methodologies in enhancing oral English communication skills, particularly in real-life situations within the classroom. It focuses on the practical benefits of these approaches in developing L2 learners' oral proficiency through mutual support and interaction. Conducted with 49 11th-grade students from a public high school, the research involved an educational intervention that applied cooperative and collaborative strategies, such as role-plays, discussions, debates, and group projects. These activities provided students with diverse language inputs and communicative strategies suited to their English level. Besides, data collection included an observation checklist before and after the intervention, as well as a survey that analyzed students’ collaborative experiences, the challenges they faced, and strategies to overcome language-speaking barriers. The study found that both cooperative and collaborative learning fostered active participation, peer interaction, and authentic communication, which are vital for improving L2 oral proficiency. In conclusion, the research highlights the value of these methodologies in creating opportunities for students to engage in real-life communication, strengthening their oral skills, and empowering them to communicate more effectively in English.

Knowledge, Practices, and Adherence to Infection Prevention and Control among Health Care Providers in the Labour Ward at Busia County Referral Hospital

Provider's Infection prevention and control (IPC) skills are essential for healthcare (HCPs), particularly in labour wards, where they significantly affect maternal and neonatal outcomes. Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) are major contributors to maternal and neonatal sepsis, resulting in high morbidity and mortality rates, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to assess knowledge, practices, and adherence to IPC among HCPs in the labour ward at Busia County Referral Hospital, focusing on hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and maintaining a clean environment. A cross-sectional study design was used to collect quantitative data from HCPs directly involved in patient care. The sample size consisted of 11 HCPs, with 10 participants, including 30% nurses, 30% clinical officers, and 40% nursing students. Most participants (40%) were aged 20-25 years, and 60% were male. Data were gathered through self-administered questionnaires and an observational checklist. Analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel, with results presented in tables, graphs, and pie charts. The findings revealed that 90% of HCPs had received formal IPC training. While 60% demonstrated good IPC knowledge, the mean score was 78% for knowledge, 69% for practices, and 50% for adherence. Although HCPs exhibited strong knowledge and practices, their adherence to IPC protocols was only borderline satisfactory. The study suggests that regular IPC training is needed to improve adherence, along with hospital management providing sufficient resources, conducting supervision, and implementing feedback mechanisms for HCPs

Healthcare waste management knowledge, attitudes and practices of laboratory workers at a regional hospital, Lesotho

Background: Safe management of healthcare waste (HW) safeguards laboratory biosafety and biosecurity. Knowledge and attitudes influence HW practices, presenting a need for evidence of the current status.Objective: This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes and practice of laboratory workers towards waste management at a regional hospital laboratory in Lesotho.Methods: The study was conducted from March 2023 to June 2023 using a mixed-methods descriptive case study design. The entire population (n = 30) of technical and non-technical laboratory workers and generated waste were sampled. A structured questionnaire and an observational checklist were used to collect data. Waste generation was assessed by weighing and measuring waste volumes. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics.Results: All respondents (26/26; 100%) can define HW and (3/3) laboratory assistants (100%) gave correct responses for three questions, namely: risk associated with HW, waste container colour-coding, and disposal requirements. Knowledge on waste management responsibilities ranged between 0% (0/4) for cleaners and 54.5% (6/11) among laboratory technicians. Attitudes were mainly positive, and practices conformed in part to standard operating procedures. Infectious solid waste comprised 77% of solid HW, while 63% of chemical liquid waste emanated from the full blood count area.Conclusion: Knowledge exists among workers and attitudes are predominantly positive; however, some unsafe practices continue, thus knowledge is not fully translated to safe practices. Regular training and measuring and recording of HW were recommended.What this study adds: The study contributes understanding of the status of HW knowledge, attitudes and management practices, highlighting the need for compliance monitoring.

Nurses’ Perception, Barriers and Associated Factors towards Hand Hygiene Practices for Prevention of Healthcare Acquired Infections in the Intensive Care Units

Introduction: Healthcare-Acquired Infections occur within 72 hours of hospitalization, surgical-related infections, and surgical site infections that develop 30 to 90 days after the procedure. They particularly impact critically ill patients due to their weakened immune systems, with hand washing being the most effective prevention method. Objective of the study: Assessing nurses’ perceptions, barriers, and the impact of socio-demographic factors towards hand hygiene practices in ICUs. Methods: The study included 65 ICU nurses from three referral hospitals, using a quantitative descriptive cross-sectional design and whole population sampling. The data were collected from 05th November 2021 to 11th Feb 2022. Data analysis was conducted with SPSS software version 21. Results: Seventy percent of participants viewed health-acquired infections (HAIs) as serious and susceptible, while 83.1% recognized the benefits of hand hygiene. The most commonly cited barrier to hand hygiene was allergies to products, reported by 32.3% of respondents. Positive perceptions of hand hygiene were significantly associated with the working institution and in-service training, with a P-value of less than 0.05. Conclusion: The study investigated nurses' perceptions, barriers, and factors influencing hand hygiene practices in ICUs. It revealed that allergies to hand hygiene products hinder the hand hygiene adherence, while institutional policies and in service training boost It. Recommendations: There is a need for conducting research using an observational checklist to assess HH adherence among ICU nurses, enhancing nursing education on HH, and improving in-service training for managerial teams in three hospitals.

Microbiological indoor air quality and associated factors in private clinics of Harar Town, Eastern Ethiopia

Background: Indoor air pollution, including airborne microorganisms, can cause allergies, respiratory diseases, and immune-toxic diseases. Sneezing generates millions of airborne microbial infections, and ventilation sources alter microbial communities. Few studies exist in developing countries, including Ethiopia, and Harar Town. The aim is to assess microbial indoor air quality and associated factors among private clinics, Harar town, Eastern Ethiopia. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 260 private clinic rooms in Harar town, using a systematic random sampling method and passive air sampling. Data was collected using the settle plate method and an observation checklist. Bivariate and multivariate analysis was performed using binary logistic regression, with a P-value of <0.05 considered statistically significant. Result: The minimum and maximum bacterial loads were 3933 CFU/m3 and 92 CFU/m3 respectively. Based on the pollution degree of the European Commission, the Mean bacterial load (904 CFU/m3) was at higher bacterial load. The highest, lowest, and mean fungal loads were 1967 CFU/m3, 9 CFU/m3 and 401 CFU/m3 respectively. Temperature of <25 °C (AOR = 1.58, p = 0.04, and 95% CI = 1.05, 1.91), >28 °C (AOR = 1.23, P = 0.03, and 95% CI = 1.51, 2.02) were significantly associated with bacterial indoor air quality. Relative humidity of treatment rooms (AOR = 1.87, p = 0.02, and 95% CI = 1.21, 3.09) had an association with bacterial loads. The clinic treatment rooms with a recorded temperature <25 °C (AOR = 6.32, p = 0.01, and 95% CI = 6.10, 8.25) had associated with fungal loads. But the rooms having a temperature of >28 °C (AOR = 0.41, p = 0.04, and 95% CI = 0.31, 0.78) were 59% less likely to comply with the fungal standards compared to rooms having a temperature of 25–28 °C. The clinic rooms with a relative humidity of <30% (AOR = 7.75, p = 0.02, 95% CI = 7.21, 8.39) were 7.75 times more likely to comply with those with a relative humidity of > 60% in the treatment rooms. Conclusion: Private clinics in Harar had a moderate fungal load and a higher indoor air bacterial concentration when compared to different indoor air standards. Temperature, humidity, inadequate ventilation and the presence of unsanitary attached toilets are some variables associated with microbial loads.

AI-Powered Training Program for Enhancing Teachers’ Skills in Creating Educational Digital Games

This research aimed to investigate the effectiveness of an artificial intelligence (AI)-based training program in developing electronic educational game production skills for teachers of students with learning disabilities. Data were collected using research tools, including an achievement test designed to measure cognitive skills and an observation checklist aimed at assessing performance in the production of electronic educational games. Using a quasi-experimental design with a single group, the research tools were applied and then the AI-based training program was implemented, with the tools being applied again afterwards. The research sample included all 50 teachers from public and private schools for students with learning disabilities in the Jazan region during the third semester of the academic year 1444 AH / 2023 AD. The results demonstrated that the AI-based training program helped teachers of students with learning disabilities improve their cognitive and performance skills in creating electronic educational games. In light of these findings, the researcher recommends employing AI-based programs in education and encourages collaboration between teachers and educational technology experts to achieve effective educational training methods and the continual development of technical skills among these teachers. KEYWORDS Chatbots, ChatGPT, e-learning, special education, learning disabilities, Make It

Effectiveness of integrated program on clinical care pathway for patients with heart failure upon competency of nurses

Cardiovascular disease is still the most common cause of death and disability in industrialized nations, and its prevalence is rising rapidly. Heart failure (HF) is increasingly common and incurs a substantial cost, both in terms of quality and length of life. Clinical pathways provide a means of implementing the most up-to-date guidance into clinical settings to improve the value and efficiency of the care provided. Methods: This study was conducted using the A Quasi-Experimental Time series Research design to assess the level of competency and to determine the effectiveness of clinical care pathway on management of patients with heart failure among 60 nurses (30 in Control and 30 in Intervention Group) from selected hospitals who were selected by consecutive sampling technique. The data was collected using pretested and validated tools such as background variables proforma of nurses, structured knowledge questionnaire and Observation Checklist on Practice of Integrated Program on Clinical Care Pathway for Heart Failure through self-administration method. Results: The study findings revealed that the mean knowledge score for heart failure management was significantly higher in the intervention group (25.50 ± 1.61) compared to the control group (17.87 ± 1.83). Additionally, their practice scores also were significantly higher across all components, days, and global scores in the intervention group (127.97 ± 3.43) than the control group (76.90 ± 7.60) with a p < 0.001. Conclusion: An empowerment of nurses focusing on clinical pathway could improve knowledge on heart failure, which could lead to better patient care including patient education and could reduce patient readmission for heart failure.

An assessment of awareness of medical waste management amongst primary health care workers in Kano State

The outcome of healthcare services is aimed at preventing potential human health risks and environmental hazards as well as improving wellbeing. In the process, however, wastes that are potentially harmful are generated and poor management of these primary healthcare wastes (HCW) exposes the health workers, patients, patient’s visitors, waste handlers and the general public to health risks. The objective of this study is to assess the waste management practices of health workers in Kano Municipal Local Government Area, Kano state. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed to collect data from four selected healthcare facilities. A total of 303 health workers randomly selected served as respondents. A structured questionnaire was administered to health workers to determine their knowledge and practice on healthcare waste management. Whereas non-participatory observation checklist was used to collect data on their current practices as regards to healthcare waste management. Data were analyzed, and presented as descriptive statistics using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 and hypothesis was tested using Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient. In conclusion, management of healthcare wastes (HCW) has become one of the critical concerns in developing countries especially Nigeria. Healthcare waste is dangerous, if handled, treated or disposed of incorrectly can spread diseases, and poison people, livestock, wild animals, plants and ecosystems. Healthcare institutions must utilize the most practical options to achieve acceptable standards and practices for healthcare waste management using available technologies. Measures to improve the Primary Healthcare waste management practices in healthcare facilities in Kano Municipal Local Government and the country at large is to enhance training of all health workers on healthcare waste management. It is recommended that colour coded bag be made available for segregation of clinical waste in all primary healthcare facilities.

ANALISIS KUANTITATIF: WAKTU TUNGGU DAN KEPUASAN PASIEN TERHADAP PELAYANAN RAWAT JALAN RS HASTA HUSADA KEPANJEN

Long queues continue to plague healthcare services, and one of the main causes of dissatisfaction is long waiting times. Patient waiting times are a significant factor in determining the quality of healthcare. Based on preliminary research at RS HASTA HUSADA Kepanjen, it appears that the implementation of outpatient services is not yet running optimally, especially for long-term outpatients. To investigate the factors contributing to long waiting times in outpatient services at RS HASTA HUSADA Kepanjen, with a particular focus on long-term outpatients, and to identify strategies for improving patient flow and reducing waiting times. This study used a descriptive type with a quantitative approach and a cross-sectional design. The sampling technique used is purposive sampling. The research instruments used include questionnaires, observation checklists, and time observation assessments. Data analysis was carried out using univariate analysis and bivariate analysis with chi-square test. The average patient at HASTA HUSADA HOSPITAL Kepanjen had to wait 70.18 minutes to get outpatient services, and most of the time was relatively long (more than 60 minutes). However, the level of patient satisfaction is classified as "quite satisfied". Based on the assessment of the five dimensions of service quality, patients are satisfied with the dimensions of "tangibles", "responsiveness", "assurance", and "empathy". However, in the "reliability" dimension, patients only feel "satisfied". The study showed that there was a relationship between service waiting time and patient satisfaction level at HASTA HUSADA HOSPITAL Kepanjen. This is evidenced by a p-value of 0.042 and a chi-square value of 4.135.

Causes of Vulnerability to Disasters in Public Secondary Schools in Nairobi County, Kenya

In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in disaster incidents within secondary schools, which significantly disrupts the educational process. These disasters not only result in loss of life and injuries but also lead to damage to school property and extended closures, forcing students to stay away from school for extended recovery periods. Despite the efforts of the Kenyan government and various stakeholders to promote disaster preparedness, schools in Kenya continue to face numerous disasters. Many secondary school students’ encounter daily risks, and often, school authorities, parents and students only take action after a tragedy occurs. This reactive approach hinders effective disaster response and mitigation, highlighting the need for this study. The main objective of this research was to investigate the factors contributing to vulnerability in public secondary schools in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study aimed to assess the level of disaster preparedness in these schools, employing a descriptive research design. The study was based on Modern Disaster Theory and System Theory. The target population consisted of 73 secondary schools, from which 13 schools were randomly selected for the study. A total of 458 respondents participated in the study, which included 6 quality assurance and standards officers from sub-counties, 3 officials from the Kenya Red Cross, 3 from St. John's Ambulance, 3 fire department officials, 1 representative from the department of disaster management, 13 teachers responsible for quality assurance and standards from selected schools, 13 head teachers, 13 members of the board of management, 13 parent association members, 6 station commanding officers, and 384 students. Key informants were selected using purposive sampling, while students were chosen through stratified random sampling. Data were gathered through questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, and observation checklists. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency distributions and percentages and presented in figures and tables. Findings indicated a lack of training and inadequate community awareness regarding disaster preparedness and safety standards. The study concluded that schools were generally unprepared for disasters, and many physical infrastructures were deemed unsafe. Recommendations included regular inspections of school facilities, safety training conducted by qualified personnel, and consideration of each school's capacity when establishing disaster preparedness and safety standards.

Health Communication: A Multimodal Discourse Analysis of Selected Corona Virus Posters in Kenya

The world today is faced with various epidemics which have introduced myriad of challenges. COVID-19 disease is the latest crisis with its attendant to health and language issues. With its emergence, COVID-19 introduced into the global linguistic repertoire a specialized form of discourse which manifested in the way government communicates to the public. The study set to analyze multimodality features of COVID 19 posters. The objectives were to describe the multimodal structure of COVID-19 posters, establish the semiotic choices adopted, explore the use of persuasive verbal and visual elements as components of multimodality, and explain the functions of multimodal metadiscourse. The study employed Social Semiotics Theory and adopted a descriptive research design. The target population was COVID-19 posters in Kenya, with a sample size of 30 posters selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Data collection methods included documentary analysis and an observational checklist, with data analyzed qualitatively through content analysis. The findings revealed that COVID-19 posters in Kenya predominantly utilized bold colors, attention-grabbing visuals, and culturally resonant symbols to capture attention and enhance message retention. Semiotic choices included the strategic use of icons, such as masks and social distancing symbols, and multilingual text to cater to diverse audiences. Verbal messages often relied on persuasive techniques, including imperative statements ("Stay Safe," "Wash Hands") and reassuring tones, to encourage compliance. Multimodal metadiscourse was instrumental in creating coherence and reinforcing critical health messages, such as prevention measures and the importance of vaccination. The study recommended the promotion of health literacy through the design of clear, concise, and inclusive messaging that accommodates varying levels of literacy. Posters should utilize plain language, simple visuals, and relatable examples to convey key information about prevention, symptoms, and protective measures.

The relationship between classroom interaction and performance of children in Science in pre-primary schools in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya

The purpose of this study was to establish if classroom interaction has any relationship with preschool learners’ performance in science activity areas. A solid science foundation at an early age of children can predict their performance in sciences at a later stage of primary and secondary levels of education. From the preschool level, children's interests, attitudes, and learning outcomes are, to a large extent, determined by the teaching methods teachers apply. A descriptive research design was applied as the researcher collected data. The target population for this study was 240 preschools, 505 teachers and 5326 learners in the early childhood Classes (PP2) in the three sub-counties (Meru South, Maara and Tharaka) of Tharaka Nithi County. Data was collected using questionnaires for teachers, documentary analysis and an observation checklist for preschool children. Descriptive analysis was applied to the data from the questionnaires. The study established that the classroom interaction used by preschool teachers had an influence on the learners' performance in science activities. The ability of the teachers to identify the learners' learning needs and the teaching methods that can best handle the topic were found to be crucial in science instruction. The study recommends that the Ministry of Education, through the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development, should review the current classroom interaction for preschools and modify them to fit specific topics. The methods should then be taught to teachers through in-service training to keep them versed in the current classroom interaction.

Autonomizing Public Universities in Ethiopia: Exploring the Potential Challenges

Background This study examines the challenges faced by Ethiopian public universities in achieving institutional, administrative, academic, and financial autonomy. Institutional autonomy refers to a university’s ability to self-govern, set its mission, and establish policies without external interference. Administrative autonomy concerns decision-making in operations, academic autonomy relates to academic freedom and quality assurance, and financial autonomy involves control over resources and revenue generation. In Ethiopia, centralized governance, political interference, and limited financial strategies create significant barriers to autonomy. Method A qualitative research approach was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and direct observations. Data were collected from 59 participants across three public universities. Tools included consent forms, interview guides, focus group discussion guides, and observation checklists. Thematic analysis was used to identify key patterns in the autonomy challenges. The study is grounded in Institutional Theory, Principal-Agent Theory, and Resource Dependency Theory. Result The findings indicate that institutional autonomy is constrained by centralized governance and political interference, limiting universities’ ability to make independent decisions, as explained by Institutional Theory. Administrative autonomy faces similar restrictions, with decision-making influenced by external entities, as highlighted by Principal-Agent Theory. Academic autonomy is challenged by the tension between standardization and institutional diversity, particularly in quality assurance and accreditation. Financial autonomy is limited by restricted revenue sources, economic instability, and a lack of innovative funding strategies, as discussed through Resource Dependency Theory. Conclusion The study concludes that Ethiopian public universities face significant barriers to autonomy. Addressing these challenges requires reducing strict governmental control, improving governance structures, and promoting independent decision-making and sources of incomes. Recommendations The study recommends implementing governance reforms, providing leadership training for university administrators, enhancing academic freedom with flexible quality assurance systems, and diversifying revenue streams through partnerships and expanded university enterprises to ensure financial sustainability.

Assessment of eye care practices and health belief model factors among adult intensive care unit nurses in public hospitals of Amhara Region, Ethiopia

BackgroundEye care is a vital aspect of overall patient health, especially in intensive care units (ICUs) where patients face a heightened risk of ocular complications. Approximately 60% of patients with tracheal tubes and lagophthalmos develop severe ocular surface diseases, such as corneal abrasions, conjunctivitis, and exposure keratopathy, due to insufficient eye protection and lubrication. These complications can adversely affect patient outcomes, including increased mortality rates, extended hospital stays, and reduced satisfaction with care. Despite the importance of effective eye care, practices among intensive care unit nurses can be inconsistent, often influenced by their beliefs and perceptions. The Health Belief Model (HBM) offers a framework to understand these influences, highlighting how nurses’ attitudes toward eye care are shaped by their perceptions of patient severity, susceptibility to complications, perceived benefits and barriers to care, cues to action, and self-efficacy.ObjectiveThis study aims to assess eye care practices among adult intensive care unit nurses in public hospitals in the Amhara Region of Ethiopia and to identify factors influencing these practices based on the Health Belief Model.MethodsA facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 213 nurses working in adult ICUs using simple random sampling. Data were collected through a structured, self-administered questionnaire and an observation checklist utilizing Kobo Collect. The data were analyzed using SPSS. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models were employed to identify relationships between the constructs of the Health Belief Model and eye care practices.ResultsIn this study, 213 of the 222 respondents participated, resulting in a 96% response rate. Among the participants, 113 nurses (53.1%; 95% CI: 46.5–59.6) demonstrated a high likelihood of providing eye care, while 100 nurses (46.9%; 95% CI: 40.4–53.5) exhibited a lower likelihood based on constructs of the Health Belief Model. Additionally, 125 nurses (58.7%; 95% CI: 52.1–65.3) had inadequate eye care practices, while 133 (62.4%; 95% CI: 55.4–69) possessed adequate knowledge about eye care. Furthermore, 113 participants (53.1%; 95% CI: 46–60.1) held a favorable attitude toward eye care. The multivariable analysis identified several factors associated with eye care practices: monthly salary (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.1–5.7), educational level (AOR = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.06–0.8), knowledge of eye care (AOR = 2, 95% CI: 1.1–3.4), and availability of eye care equipment (AOR = 0.3, 95% CI: 0.1–0.5).Conclusion and recommendationThe study reveals that fewer than half of the nurses working in adult intensive care units in public hospitals in the Amhara region provide adequate eye care, despite a strong intention to do so. Key factors influencing eye care practices include monthly salary, knowledge level, educational qualifications, and the availability of necessary equipment. To improve eye care delivery, it is essential for relevant authorities to implement targeted training and educational initiatives for nurses, thereby enhancing their skills and knowledge in eye care practices.

Urban slum housing quality, and its public health implications in Nigeria: a case of urban slum residents in Enugu metropolis, South East, Nigeria

IntroductionHousing remains a strategic social determinant of health. In Sub-Saharan Africa, most urban dwellers live in slums with attendant health implications. This study assessed the housing conditions of the slums of Enugu metropolis and the public health implications.MethodsThis is a community-based cross-sectional study of 459 slum residents of the Enugu metropolis. Ethical clearance was obtained from the UNTH, Health Research Ethics Committee (HREC). Data was collected using a pretested semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and an observational checklist. Data was analysed using IBM SPSS version 23. Data were summarised using mean and standard deviation, frequency and proportion as appropriate and presented in tables and figures. The chi-square test was used for association at p-value ≤ 0.05 significance.ResultsThe mean age (SD) of the respondents was 32.93(12.34) years. A higher proportion (N = 180, 39.2%) were 18-27years, females (N = 282, 61.4%), married (N = 297, 64.7%), attained secondary education (N = 273, 59.5%), Igbo (N = 453, 98.7%), and self-employed (N = 327, 71.2%). They demonstrated good knowledge of standard housing specifications (N = 231, 50.3%) and the effects of housing conditions on health (N = 297, 64.7%). Also, most lived in a one-room apartment (N = 201, 43.8%) and cooked in a separate kitchen (N = 150, 32.7%) with a gas cooker as the major source of heat supply for cooking (N = 249, 54.2%). Sixty-three (13.7%) of the respondents didn’t have access to suitable toilet facilities. A higher proportion, (N = 171, 37.3%) used pipe-borne water, and electricity as the major source of light (N = 447, 97.4%). The most prevailing health condition was malaria/fever (N = 258, 97.4%). Despite having pests and rodents-infested dwellings, only (N = 156, 34.0%) had insecticides in the house. Equally, (N = 132, 28.8%) of them lived with broken floors.ConclusionsDespite good knowledge of the public health implications of poor housing, most dwellings remained substandard and unhealthful with associated prevalent health conditions.RecommendationThere is a need for a health campaign against the poor living conditions in the slums.

The impact of enhanced cleaning on bacterial contamination of the hospital environmental surfaces: a clinical trial in critical care unit in an Egyptian hospital.

Contaminated environmental surfaces play an important role in the transmission of pathogens that cause healthcare acquired infection (HAI). The present study aimed to assess the effect of enhanced cleaning techniques on bacterial contamination in high-touch areas compared to routine cleaning at the intensive care units (ICU) of the neurosurgery department of Alexandria Main University Hospital, Egypt. The assessment of the knowledge and practices of healthcare cleaning workers and nurses was conducted through a questionnaire and an observational checklist. An educational program about enhanced cleaning was carried out for healthcare cleaning workers and nurses in one room of the ICU unit. Environmental surface swabs were taken from the two rooms of the ICU before and after cleaning (room A and room B). Room A was selected to apply the enhanced cleaning, and room B was selected for routine cleaning. A significant decrease in bacterial counts in the high-touch areas around the patients after the application of enhanced cleaning compared to routine cleaning (p < 0.001) was observed. Gram-negative bacteria isolated from high-touch areas accounted for 45.6% of the samples collected before enhanced cleaning, and they became 16.3% after enhanced cleaning (p < 0.001), while they accounted for 40% after routine cleaning. The enhanced cleaning intervention in Room A resulted in a significant reduction in total infections, decreasing from 18 cases in the six months prior to the intervention to 11 cases in the six months following its implementation. (p < 0.05). The effect of enhanced cleaning was evident in decreasing bacterial counts in the high-touch areas around the patient and consequently in the records of the HAI rate inside the ICU. PACTR202402531001186, date: 15 February 2024, 'retrospectively registered'.

Factors influencing job performance of nurses in COVID-19 care: a study in Egypt.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an illness that has critical effects on public health and overall circumstances across the world. The performance of nurses represents the vital actions in providing care for COVID-19 patients. The aim of this study was to assess job performance and associated nurses, patients, and environmental-related factors among nurses providing care to COVID-19 patients in Egypt through the following: assessing the nurses' knowledge regarding care of COVID-19 patients; assessing the nurses' practice regarding care of COVID-19 patients; assessing different factors that affect different types of nurses' job performance; and assessing the factors associated with the job performance of nurses providing care to COVID-19 patients.Design A descriptive exploratory study was used to meet the aim of the study.Setting The study was conducted at Ain Shams University COVID-19 Hospital.Study subjects A convenient sample of all 52 available nurses working at Ain Shams University COVID-19 Hospital. Data collection tools: The data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire. It consisted of the following: A. Self-administered nurses' questionnaire: Part I: Demographic characteristics of nurses. Part II: Nurses knowledge assessment. Part III: Factors associated with nurses' job performance. B. Narses's practice observational checklist. Results: The mean age (mean ± SD) of the study population was 40.59 ± 6.90. As regards their years of experience working as nurses, only 32.7% of them have more than ten years of experience. In relation to the total satisfactory level of knowledge about coronavirus, the study reveals that 55.8% of the nurses have unsatisfactory knowledge regarding coronavirus, There is a highly significant relationship between level of practice and years of experience (p-value < 0.001**), while there is a significant relationship between level of practice and educational level and attending the training courses about caring for COVID-19 patients (P-value 0.033*, P-value 0.025*), respectively.Conclusion The study concluded that most of the studied nurses had unsatisfactory knowledge, and more than half had incompetent practice scores about nursing care practices for patients with COVID-19. There was a positive linear correlation between the nurses' knowledge and practice. The factors affecting their performance in caring for patients with COVID-19, lack of cooperation between nurses and patients, lack of supplies and equipment during care were the most frequently reported factors, as were an unequal nurse-patient ratio, many nursing tasks, and a lack of patients' knowledge.Recommendation The study recommends the importance of promoting the nursing care guidelines as a standard procedure in ICUs, and the nursing care guideline educational program for patients with COVID-19 should be scheduled regularly for nurses. Providing the hospitals with supplies to avoid the shortage's effect on nurses' performance.

Exploring EFL Students' Creativity and Engagement with AI Chatbot in Web-Based English Course

This research explores the role of AI-based chatbot tools in promoting creativity and engagement among English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students in web-based English material development course. A qualitative research design was employed, involving in-depth interviews and observation checklists. The research was conducted at the English Education Faculty in Parangtambung of Universitas Negeri Makassar, with data collection spanning from May 12, 2024, to June 9, 2024. Participants included five undergraduate students from the 6th semester based on their familiarity with AI chatbots. The subjects of this research were undergraduate students enrolled in the English web-based material development course. Specifically, five students with prior experience or familiarity with AI chatbots were chosen to provide detailed insights through interviews and observations. The findings indicate that AI chatbots significantly encourage creativity among EFL students by providing a safe space for language experimentation and immediate feedback. Students reported increased engagement and enjoyment in their learning process. The research concludes that while AI chatbots can effectively foster creativity and engagement, careful integration and continuous monitoring are necessary to maximize their educational benefits.

Investigating English vocabulary teaching to EFL Students from the Perspective of Multiple Intelligences Theory Abstract

The present study investigates the relationship between multiple intelligence theory (MIT) and vocabulary teaching. (MIT) has prompted some educators and language scholars to reevaluate classroom practices in education and other aspects of language teaching and learning. This paper attempts to clarify the applications of this theory in the context of teaching and learning vocabulary. This study included 18 EFL instructors and 50 EFL sophomores. Some items for instructors and students were adapted from (Christison, 1996). After completing the questionnaire, the results of the instructors were compared with a classroom observation checklist to discover if there was a correlation between their MIT profile and the type of intelligence they employ in the classroom. The Chi-square test and Spearman correlation showed an association between the multiple intelligences (MIs) and instructional approaches of EFL instructors. However, age, field of study, and gender did not significantly impact EFL instructors' multiple intelligences teaching strategies and their student's learning styles.

Nurses' Characteristics Associated with Good Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) of the Malaria Vaccine in Bungoma County, Kenya.

The study examined nurse characteristics associated with Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) regarding malaria vaccination in Bungoma County, Kenya. Malaria remains a major health burden in Kenya, with 3.4 million cases and 12,000 deaths in 2021. Bungoma County, a malaria-endemic area, implemented the RTS S1 malaria vaccine, but dropout rates for subsequent doses are high. The fourth dose dropout, particularly in Bungoma and Siaya, poses a significant challenge to vaccine adherence. A cross-sectional descriptive study comprising mixed research methods; comprising key informant interviews was conducted among nurses in Bungoma County. A stratified random sampling was used to select 63 health facilities providing malaria vaccine. Data collection involved structured questionnaires, observation checklist, and key informant interview guide. Hawthorne effect was minimized by rapport building or familiarizing the participants by spending a whole morning at the facility CWC and assuring sampled participants of anonymity, this made the participants calm and can provide immunization services without fear of being judged. Data was analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics to determine associations between nurse demographics and KAP scores. The study found good KAP was significantly associated with characteristics such as age, years of experience, education level, and prior malaria vaccine training. Nurses aged over 35, with higher education, and those trained in malaria vaccine administration had a higher likelihood of exhibiting good knowledge and positive attitudes. The study concludes that implementing targeted training programs and mentorship initiatives for less experienced and younger nursing staff is essential for strengthening vaccine implementation effectiveness. Enhanced continuous education programs in Bungoma County would likely improve malaria vaccine practices and outcomes. Additionally, the findings indicate that structured support systems and ongoing professional development are crucial elements in maintaining high standards of vaccine delivery. The study recommends that mandatory comprehensive training programs should be established, incorporating both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical skills development. These programs should be regularly updated to reflect current best practices and emerging challenges in vaccine delivery. Furthermore, the implementation of structured on-site mentorship programs, combined with continuous supervision, should be prioritized to ensure consistent application of proper vaccination protocols. Regular refresher courses should be offered to maintain and update healthcare workers' knowledge and skills, while a peer support system should be established to facilitate knowledge sharing and professional development.