Journal of Education and Health Promotion

The double‑edged sword of emotions in medical education: A scoping review

. Nahid Toufan; . Athar Omid; . Fariba Haghani

Volume 13, Issue 2 , February 2023, , Pages 1-12

Abstract

  Emotions are universal in academic and clinical settings. A student is likely to hope for success,maybe be worried about failure, or may feel comfortable after an exam. These feelings ...  Read More Emotions are universal in academic and clinical settings. A student is likely to hope for success,maybe be worried about failure, or may feel comfortable after an exam. These feelings undoubtedlyaffect his/her motivation, effort, academic performance, and progress. This study aimed to investigatethe role of emotion in the learning and performance of medical students and its mechanism. Thisstudy was a scoping review conducted in 2022 to examine the role of emotions in medical education.The three databases PubMed, ERIC, and Science Direct and the search engine Google Scholarwere searched using the following keywords: “emotion,” “medical student,” “teaching,” “learning,”and “medical education.” English articles published from 2010 to 2022 were reviewed, and finally,34 articles that met the inclusion criteria were reviewed. Review of the selected articles showed thatthere was a significant relationship between the cognitive system and emotions in the brain. Theconceptual framework of the relationship between cognition and emotion can be explained in theform of dimensional and discrete views of emotions and based on cognitive load theory. Emotionsaffect cognition with the four mechanisms of memory, cognitive resources, cognitive strategies,and motivation and can be effective in learning self‑regulation, clinical reasoning, and academicachievement of medical students. Emotions in medical education is a double‑edged sword. In otherwords, it is highly recommended to divide emotions into activating and inactivating, instead of dividingthem into positive and negative ones. In this context, medical educators can use the positive aspectsof nearly all emotions to improve the quality of their teaching.

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Relationship between the development of musculoskeletal disorders, physical activity level, and academic stress among undergraduates students of University of Nigeria

. Uchenwoke Chigozie Ikenna; . Loveth Nwuka Nwobodo; . Antoninus Obinna Ezeukwu; . Ijeoma Judith Ilo; . Stephen Sunday Ede; . Adaora Justina Okemuo; . Chisom Favour Okoh

Volume 12, Issue 11 , December 2022, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Academic stress is a common experience among university students. It can affectthe body composition of the students through behavioral changes, which further affect their ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Academic stress is a common experience among university students. It can affectthe body composition of the students through behavioral changes, which further affect their physicalactivity level (PAL). Musculoskeletal disorders could arise from the interaction of these factors. Thisstudy aimed to determine the relationship between PAL, academic stress, selected anthropometricindices, and the development of MSDs among a selected Nigerian population.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross‑sectional study of 256 (129 females and 127 males)undergraduates of the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus aged 15–30 years using Student’sStress Inventory to evaluate academic stress, the short‑form of the International Physical ActivityQuestionnaire to determine the PAL, and a Standard Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire toassess MSDs.RESULTS: The results showed a high PAL with the male students having more PAL (61.4%) thanfemale students. Secondly, the prevalence of MSDs among the population was high (66.02%)and the students faced moderate academic stress with the prevalence being more among thefemale students (75.2%). A significant difference was observed between academic stress and thedevelopment of MSDs (P = 0.009).CONCLUSION: This study’s findings support the hypothesis that increased academic stress and lowlevel of physical activity are linked to increased risks of MSDs among students. Thus, it is warrantedthat the University curriculum is re‑adjusted and incorporate public enlightenment programs onpossible causes and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders, stress management, and copingstrategies.

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The effect of educational intervention based on the self‑efficacy theory of high school students in adopting preventive behaviors of COVID‑19

. Zahra Rezaie; . Vahid Kohpeima Jahromi; . Vahid Rahmanian; . Nader Sharifi

Volume 12, Issue 10 , November 2022, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The COVID‑19 pandemic has become a major problem for education systems. Thisstudy was conducted to investigate the effect of educational intervention based on the self‑efficacytheory ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The COVID‑19 pandemic has become a major problem for education systems. Thisstudy was conducted to investigate the effect of educational intervention based on the self‑efficacytheory of high‑school students in adopting preventive behaviors of COVID‑19.MATERIAL AND METHODS: This quasi‑experimental study was performed on Hazrat Zahra andShahed high‑school students in Jahrom (southern Iran) in 2021. In total, 160 students (80 each inthe intervention group and the control group) were selected by multistage random sampling. Datacollection tools included a demographic information questionnaire and self‑efficacy in adoptingpreventive behaviors from COVID‑19 researcher‑made questionnaire. Questionnaires were completedby all participants before and 3 months after the educational intervention. The educational interventionwas performed for 6 weeks by using an educational program based on Bandura self‑efficacy theory.The intervention was performed during 12 sessions of face‑to‑face training in the classroom (two 1‑hsessions per week), distributing educational packages and sending educational videos throughcyberspace. Data were analyzed using Chi‑square test, independent t test, paired t test, and linearregression.RESULTS: After the educational intervention, a significant difference was observed in the interventiongroup before and after the educational intervention (P = 0.018) and between the intervention and thecontrol groups (P = 0.001) in the self‑efficacy in adopting preventive behaviors from COVID‑19 score.Also, the average self‑efficacy score of students increased with an increase in parental educationlevel and a history of COVID‑19 in family members.CONCLUSION: Educational intervention based on self‑efficacy theory was shown as an effectivemethod to improve students’ self‑efficacy in adopting preventive behaviors from COVID‑19.

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Prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress among private medical college students in South India: A cross‑sectional study

. Sangeetha Raja; . Gayathri Balasubramanian; . Jamuna Rani R

Volume 12, Issue 10 , November 2022, , Pages 1-5

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Medical education is competitive across the globe. The long duration of the medicaland paramedical courses and exposure to clinical settings potentially causes mental health ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Medical education is competitive across the globe. The long duration of the medicaland paramedical courses and exposure to clinical settings potentially causes mental health issues.The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress amongundergraduate students in a private medical college in South India.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross‑sectional study was conducted among paramedical andmedical students at a private medical college hospital and research center in South India in theyear 2021. The required sample size was calculated as 783 with an expected prevalence of 53%,95% confidence interval (CI), design effect 2.0, and non‑response of 10%. The study participantswere selected based on simple random sampling. After obtaining informed consent, the data wascollected using an email questionnaire. Standard data collection tools such as the Perceived StressScale (PSS); and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale ‑ 21 (DASS‑21) questionnaire wereused. The investigator computed the odds ratio (OR) and adjusted odds ratio (aOR) with a 95% CI.RESULTS: Out of 1200 students, 1015 (85%) responded to the email questionnaire. Among them, 639were females (63%), and 925 were paramedics (91%). Prevalence of depression, anxiety and stresswere 59%, 43% and 11%, respectively. Almost 95% of students experienced moderate‑to‑severestress in the last one month. Prevalence was higher among females and students of medicalcourses. Students of final year of college (aOR = 2.0; 95% CI = 1.2–3.5) and students of medicalcourse (aOR = 1.5; 95% CI = 1.1–2.4) were independently associated with stress among the studyparticipants.CONCLUSION: There is high prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress among medical collegestudents in south India. The final year of study and medical course were independently associatedwith higher stress than others. We recommend periodic assessment of mental health status andadditional mental health care for final year students and medical students.

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Comparison of the level of critical thinking skills of faculties and medical students of Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, 2021

. Abdolhussein Shakurnia; . Nasrin Khajeali; . Reza Sharifinia

Volume 12, Issue 10 , November 2022, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: One of the main tasks of educational institutions, in addition to developing students’professional competencies, is to develop decision‑making and problem‑solving ...  Read More BACKGROUND: One of the main tasks of educational institutions, in addition to developing students’professional competencies, is to develop decision‑making and problem‑solving skills, which arethemselves influenced by critical thinking that should be developed by instructors at the university.The aim of this study was to compare the level of critical thinking skills in students and faculties ofAhwaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross‑sectional descriptive study, the sample consisted of81 medical students and 52 faculty members of the medical school who were teaching and studyingin 2021. The research method was descriptiveanalytical and the data collection tool was the CaliforniaCritical Thinking Questionnaire Form B. SPSS‑18 software and t‑test were used to analyze the data.RESULTS: The mean score of students’ critical thinking skills was 12.49 ± 4.43 and that of facultieswas 12.44 ± 3.76 and no significant difference was observed between the scores of the twogroups (P = 0.94).CONCLUSION: The findings of the study show that the level of critical thinking skills in both facultiesand students is below the standard and poor. The results of the study indicate the weakness of criticalthinking in students and faculties in all dimensions, which indicates the need to teach critical thinkingskills at the university level. Therefore, educational planners and faculty officials should pay moreattention to developing critical thinking skills in their educational programs.

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Psychological distress and coping styles among baccalaureate nursing students: Promoting mental health of future nurses in COVID‑19 pandemic

. Ankita Sharma; . Rajesh Kumar

Volume 12, Issue 9 , October 2022, , Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease (COVID‑19) causes significant psychological distress amongnursing students. College‑bound nursing students might have preferred different types of ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease (COVID‑19) causes significant psychological distress amongnursing students. College‑bound nursing students might have preferred different types of copingstrategies to deal with psychological distress. This study aims to measure the psychological distressand role of coping styles to mediate the stress level among the baccalaureate nursing students amidthe COVID‑19 pandemic.MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional online survey was conducted in December 2020 ata nursing college attached to a tertiary care teaching hospital, North India. Nearly 251 baccalaureatenursing students completed the Impact of Event Scale‑Revised (IES‑R) and Coping Orientation toProblems Experienced Inventory (Brief‑COPE) scale to report their psychological distress and copingstyles, respectively. Chi‑square test, independent sample t‑test followed by binary and multivariableregression were used to identify the factors associated with distress in students during the pandemic.RESULTS: Students’ mean age was 22.22 ± 1.24 years. The mean IES‑R was 19.59 ± 12.45 innursing students. Psychological distress found a significant association with age (P = 0.022), academicclass (P = 0.016), travel history (P = 0.034), and being positive reverse transcription–polymerasechain reaction (RT‑PCR) for COVID‑19 status of self (P = 0.018) and family members in the medicalprofession (P = 0.013). In binary logistic regression, stress level found a significant association withfirst‑year academic level (OR: 3.250, 95% CI: 1.429–7.390, P = 0.005) and family members in themedical profession (OR: 4.44, 95% CI: 1.019–19.382, P = 0.047). Adaptive coping styles were morefrequently preferred than maladaptive coping styles (54% vs 41%). Adaptive (r = 0.295, P < 0.001)and maladaptive coping (r = 0.403, P < 0.001) shows a significant positive relationship with stressin students, respectively.CONCLUSIONS: Coronavirus pandemic causes significant distress among nursing students. Studentswere able to manage stress using acceptance and religious/spiritual coping strategies. During thepandemic, stress management to support mental health is highly recommended.

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The impact of mobile phone fitness applications on the level of physical fitness and psychological well‑being during covid‑19: The case of university students

. Mona Soliman; . Abeer Rasheed; . Hager Abdel Hady; . Malek Jdaitawi; . Amany Khamees; . Reda Abdelsalam

Volume 12, Issue 8 , September 2022, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The impact of Coronavirus Disease‑19 on peoples’ life has become evident.Recently, sport activities are important in improving individual health and their well‑being. ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The impact of Coronavirus Disease‑19 on peoples’ life has become evident.Recently, sport activities are important in improving individual health and their well‑being. The aim ofthis study is to investigate the effect of using mobile phone fitness applications on some characteristicsof physical fitness and psychological well‑being of female university students.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A descriptive study design was implemented using a survey whichwas adapted to collect data from a sample of 50 female participants within the age of 18 to 19 years.As for the results, the participants indicated that they used physical fitness application by smartphone regularly during COVID‑19.RESULTS: The results also illustrate that there was a significant difference on the study variablesbased on the study groups and test time. The study results extend literature concerning sport activitiesparticipation and promoting positive well‑being during COVID‑19 pandemic.CONCLUSION: The study indicated a significant difference of the application on physical fitnessand psychological well‑being among the participants. Based on the results, the study recommendedto organize several sport activities among students and encourage them to use smart phones forpositive purposes. Finally, practical implications are outlined.

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COVID‑19 vaccine hesitancy among Nigerian youths: Case study of students in Southwestern Nigeria

. David B. Olawade; . Ojima Z. Wada; . Aderonke Odetayo; . Oluwabusayomi O. Akeju; . Fiyinfoluwa T. Asaolu; . Grace O. Owojori

Volume 12, Issue 6 , July 2022, , Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND AND AIM: Vaccination has been appraised to be one of the most significant public health achievements in human history. However, in countries like Nigeria, vaccine hesitancy ...  Read More BACKGROUND AND AIM: Vaccination has been appraised to be one of the most significant public health achievements in human history. However, in countries like Nigeria, vaccine hesitancy is a public health challenge that has consistently forestalled concerted efforts made by health authorities to curb the spread of communicable diseases such as COVID‑19. To improve COVID‑19 vaccine acceptance via targeted interventions, it is imperative to examine the public’s perception. Thus, this study aims to evaluate vaccine hesitancy among university students in Southwestern Nigeria.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study utilized a descriptive cross‑sectional design. A self‑administered questionnaire was administered to a total of 366 respondents who were recruited using the convenience sampling technique and snowball approach. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS.RESULTS: The majority of the respondents were over 18 years (88%) and were between their first and third years (81%). Over a tenth of the respondents reported having at least a loved one that had tested positive for the virus, while only 88% believed the virus is real. Furthermore, only 17% of the students had a positive attitude toward the vaccine. Although 90% of the respondents were aware of the administration of COVID‑19 vaccine in Nigeria, only around a quarter were willing to take the vaccine, while 5.5% had been vaccinated. The major reasons for COVID‑19 vaccine hesitancy highlighted by the respondents were concerns about vaccine side effects (21.3%), lack of trust in the authorities (26.5%), vaccine efficacy (13.1%), and diverse mystical possibilities (39.1%).CONCLUSION: The results indicate that a significant communication gap exists between the respondents and local health authorities. To enhance the acceptance of COVID‑19 vaccines, extensive and targeted health promotion campaigns are required to allay specific concerns raised by the public.

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Perception of educational environment as a predictor of academic performance in physiotherapy students

. Manasi Desai; . Unnati Pandit; . Amruta Nerurkar; . Chhaya Verma

Volume 12, Issue 5 , June 2022, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Students’ perception of their academic environment has a substantial influenceon their actions, academic accomplishments, satisfaction, goal attainment, and behavior. ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Students’ perception of their academic environment has a substantial influenceon their actions, academic accomplishments, satisfaction, goal attainment, and behavior. The studywas carried out to evaluate the perception of academic environment in physiotherapy students, andto identify the specific domains which could act as predictors of academic performance.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This descriptive, cross-sectional research was conductedover 12 months using total population sampling. Three hundred and forty-three (139 postgraduateand 204 final year) final year and postgraduate physiotherapy students from five colleges ofMumbai and Navi Mumbai, who conformed to the inclusion benchmarks, participated in the study.Perception of educational environment was evaluated using Dundee Ready Education EnvironmentMeasure (DREEM). Academic performance was evaluated using the percentage obtained in thelast university examination. Data were entered in MS Excel (©Microsoft, USA) and converted toStata Version 15.1© StataCorp, College Station, for further analysis. The mean values and standarddeviations for perception of educational environment were calculated and linear regression modelswere used to conduct multivariate analysis for each item in the questionnaire.RESULTS: The mean total DREEM score of physiotherapy students was 129.97 ± 22.72. Studentswhose Students’ Academic Self‑perception scores were in the “Feeling more on the positive side”category showed a 4.17 point increase in percentage scores as compared with those who reportedfeeling like a total failure/had many negative aspects to their academic self‑perception (95% confidenceinterval [CI]: 2.46, 5.89; P < 0.001). Students whose Students’ Perception of Learning (SPoL) scoreswere in the “Teaching highly thought of” category showed a 2.75 point increase in percentage scoresas compared with those who viewed teaching poorly/negatively (95% CI: 0.44, 5.06; P = 0.02).CONCLUSION: Physiotherapy students had a “more positive than negative” view of the academicenvironment; however, a few “problematic areas” need to be remediated. Efforts to improve students’academic self-perception may improve their academic performance since this was the strongestpredictor of their academic performance, followed by total DREEM scores and SPoL.

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More than a year into the pandemic: Do higher education students still practice protective behaviors against COVID‑19?

. Judith S. Rabacal; . Samson M. Lausa; . Renante A. Egcas; . Ryan Michael F. Oducado; . Jerome V. Cleofas; . Khen A. Tamdang

Volume 12, Issue 5 , June 2022, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The exponential increase of cases and the emergence of the new COVID‑19variants continue to be a challenge. It remains crucial to assess whether or not minimum healthstandards ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The exponential increase of cases and the emergence of the new COVID‑19variants continue to be a challenge. It remains crucial to assess whether or not minimum healthstandards against COVID‑19 are consistently followed. This study determined the higher educationstudents’ practice of protective measures against COVID‑19 of more than a year into the pandemic.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A questionnaire web survey, cross‑sectional study was conductedamong higher education students (n = 2309) of a public university in the Philippines. Data wereanalyzed using the SPSS software.RESULTS: Results indicated that students generally had a high practice of COVID‑19 preventivemeasures. However, only 45.9% always practice physical distancing measures, and only 35.9%always seek information related to COVID‑19 after more than a year into the pandemic. Female,married, graduate level, with a monthly family income of PHP 10,000 and above, and personalknowledge of someone who tested for COVID‑19 had a significantly higher practice of COVID‑19protective measures. Older age, higher general self‑reported health status, and higher intentionto comply with recommended protective health behaviors were significantly correlated with higherpractice of preventive measures against COVID‑19.CONCLUSION: After more than a year of being into the pandemic, students still practice preventivehealth behaviors, however, this is not done consistently. As the pandemic is still not over in the countryand many parts of the world, continuous monitoring and a reminder to practice minimum protectivehealth protocols are needed to mitigate and prevent the spread of COVID‑19.

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Assessment of knowledge and awareness regarding intellectual property rights among the health‑care professionals in Belagavi city: A cross‑sectional study

. Apurva Prashant Deshpande; . Anil V Ankola; . Roopali Sankeshwari; . Sagar Jalihal; . Laxmi Kabra; . Deepika V Bhat; . Abhra Roy Choudhury

Volume 12, Issue 5 , June 2022, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Intellectual property rights (IPRs) are increasingly becoming significant forsustainable growth of today’s knowledge‑based society. An inappropriate knowledge regarding ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Intellectual property rights (IPRs) are increasingly becoming significant forsustainable growth of today’s knowledge‑based society. An inappropriate knowledge regarding IPRcan fail to reserve rights for one’s intellectual creation. Hence this study was planned with an aim toassess knowledge, awareness, and practices regarding intellectual property rights in India amongstthe health-care professionals in Belagavi city.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A descriptive cross‑sectional study was conducted among thepostgraduate students and faculty of six health‑care professional institutions in Belagavi, Karnataka.A total of 724 responses were recorded using convenient sampling. Data was collected usingself‑administered validated questionnaire which included demographic details and total 20 questionspertaining to knowledge, awareness, and practices regarding IPR. Two‑point Likert scale was used.Descriptive statistics, Mann–Whitney U‑test, and Chi‑square test were applied.RESULTS: A total of 724 responses were recorded, 411 from postgraduate students and 313 fromfaculty of 6 health‑care professional institutions. It was observed that 24.3% and 39.3% of postgraduatestudents and faculty participants, respectively, had maximum knowledge while 35.5% of faculty and27.5% of postgraduate students had maximum awareness regarding IPR in India. Only 17.6% and10.2% of faculty and postgraduate students had previously attended workshops on IPR.CONCLUSION: The present study identified that both faculty and postgraduate students of health‑careprofession have less knowledge and awareness regarding IPR. However, both knowledge andawareness regarding IPR were better among faculty when compared to postgraduate students.Thus, the academic community requires a higher level of sensitization and exposure to IPR in India.

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Explaining medical students’ perceptions of asynchronous virtual education in the COVID‑19 pandemic: A qualitative study

. Roghieh Sodeify; . Zeinab Habibpour; . Masoumeh Akbarbegloo

Volume 12, Issue 4 , April 2022, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  INTRODUCTION: With the unintended closure of classrooms following the outbreak of COVID‑19, the virtual education method is used as an alternative to face‑to‑face education. ...  Read More INTRODUCTION: With the unintended closure of classrooms following the outbreak of COVID‑19, the virtual education method is used as an alternative to face‑to‑face education. Virtual education is one of the important factors in promoting the learning of medical students and has many benefits such as increasing the ability of critical thinking, problem‑solving skills, and self‑directed learning. However, critically examining students’ perceptions of e‑learning can help improve quality and better planning.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This research was a qualitative study. Twelve students were enrolled in the study based on purposive sampling. Data were collected using in‑depth semi‑structured interviews in 2020. All interviews were recorded and then transcribed and analyzed using a continuous comparison and conventional content analysis approach.RESULTS: Data analysis revealed four main themes and ten subthemes. The main themes included “student concern,” “teacher barriers,” “technology weakness,” and “asynchronous virtual learning flexibility.”CONCLUSION: Asynchronous e‑learning in the COVID‑19 outbreak had its advantages and disadvantages. By analyzing students’ perceptions in this field, some better designs and planning can be done to increase the quality of education.

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Knowledge, attitudes, and perception toward human papillomavirus among health profession students: A cross‑sectional study in King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences

. Syed Sameer Aga; . Nusrath Yasmeen; . Muhammad Anwar Khan; . Alqassem Y. Hakami; . Abdullah Awadh; . Israa Abdullah Malli

Volume 12, Issue 4 , April 2022, , Pages 1-14

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the major risk factor for cervical cancer (CC) in women of reproductive age. Despite advances in treatment and prevention of ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the major risk factor for cervical cancer (CC) in women of reproductive age. Despite advances in treatment and prevention of CC by HPV vaccination, very few women utilize them because of a lack of awareness about HPV.MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted this cross‑sectional study among Health Professions Students (HPS) at King Saud Bin Abdul Aziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah. Data were collected using a predesigned and validated study questionnaire to assess the knowledge, attitude, and perception of HPS toward HPV.RESULTS: A total of 580 HPS responded to the survey; 128 (22.1%) were male, while 452 (77.9%) were female with the mean age ± standard deviation 20.36 ± 1.74 years. There was no significant difference between males and females related to screening of HPV and CC (82.8%; 82.3%). A minority (30.3%) of participants thought that HPV infection leads to CC, while 38.3% did not know about it. Furthermore, knowledge about HPV screening and vaccination was poor.CONCLUSIONS: Students from the college of medicine had more knowledge and awareness about HPV (34.9%, P < 0.001). Thus, it is important to implement effective education programs, curricular activities, and awareness campaigns for health professions to augment the learning process effectively.

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Occurrence of urinary tract infection and preventive strategies practiced by female students at a tertiary care teaching institution

. Prasuna Jelly; . Rajni Verma; . Reena Kumawat; . Suman Choudhary; . Lisa Chadha; . Rakesh Sharma

Volume 12, Issue 4 , April 2022, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are more common in females than males and predominantly based on their unhealthy practices in their day to day lives. This study is ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are more common in females than males and predominantly based on their unhealthy practices in their day to day lives. This study is trying to assess the occurrence of UTI and strategies used by female student to prevent UTI.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional descriptive study carried out in a tertiary care teaching institute. A total of 338 conveniently selected B. Sc. Nursing and MBBS Medical students were surveyed. The data were collected by using a pretested, a self‑structured questionnaire related to occurrence and practices to prevent UTI along with necessary demographic details. Descriptive (frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation) and inferential (Chi‑square test) statistics was used to compute the data.RESULTS: The result of this study shows that 10.05% female students reported of having UTI. The proportion was higher in nursing students (67.6%) than medical (32.4%) but did not show a significance difference (P = 0.61). Age, duration of hostel life, and marital status were significantly associated with the status of UTI (P = 0.001). To prevent UTI, students were using commercial product with Tea Tree Oil, soap, drinking 3–4 l water/day, increased frequency of peri‑wash during menstruation period, and use of Citrus Fruits. The use of western toilet was also significantly associated with status of UTI (P = 0.04).CONCLUSION: The occurrence of UTI was more among nursing students. Most of the perineal hygienic practices by the female students were associated with occurrence of UTI; hence, it is necessary to emphasize on preventive practices to minimize re‑occurrence.

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The use of smartphone clinical skills recording in labor ward for midwifery students: New educational technology

. Shahla Mohamadirizi; . Soheila Mohamadirizi

Volume 12, Issue 4 , April 2022, , Pages 1-4

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: One of the most important clinical teaching keys is the use of new evaluation that plays an essential role in strengthening the quality level of clinical skills students. ...  Read More BACKGROUND: One of the most important clinical teaching keys is the use of new evaluation that plays an essential role in strengthening the quality level of clinical skills students. Hence, the aim of this study was to determine the effect of smartphone clinical skills recording in the labor ward on satisfaction of midwifery students.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a quasi‑experimental study that was conducted on 60 midwifery students in the 8th semester was selected through the convenience sampling method. Clinical skills of labor ward recorded by two methods groups (smartphone and traditional). The satisfaction questionnaire was completed before and after by the two groups. Data were analyzed using the descriptive and inferential statistics through the SPSS version 22 software.RESULTS: Independent t‑test showed that the satisfaction scores before intervention in both smartphone and traditional groups were not statistically significant (P = 0.126), whereas there was a significant difference between two groups after intervention (P = 0.002).CONCLUSION: The use of smartphone techniques in the labor ward can be effect in clinical skills recording among midwifery students.

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Influence of knowledge on Brazilian student’s perception of life and clinical classes during COVID‑19

. Fernanda de Souza e Silva Ramos; . Laryssa de Castro Oliveira; . Diego Felipe Mardegan Gonçalves; . Rafael Santos Rocha; . Eduardo Bresciani; . Ticiane Cestari Fagundes

Volume 12, Issue 2 , February 2022, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The current pandemic associated with SARS‑CoV‑2 has negatively influenced several activities, including teaching in Operative Dentistry. The aim of this study was ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The current pandemic associated with SARS‑CoV‑2 has negatively influenced several activities, including teaching in Operative Dentistry. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of knowledge in Operative Dentistry on undergraduate students’ perception related to personal life and return to clinical practices classes during pandemic.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present research was a cross‑sectional, observational, and qualitative survey. The 16‑item based questionnaire was sent to undergraduate students in 2020, which were divided into two groups, according to the Operative Dentistry knowledge: G1‑not started clinical practice; G2‑already started or completed clinical practice. Questions were focused on the impact of the pandemic in relation to their personal lives and return to clinical practice classes. Chi‑square association test was performed using the SigmaPlot 12.0 software (P ≤ 0.05).RESULTS: The response rate was 55.5% for G1 and 44.4% for G2. Regarding the questions related to personal life, G1 demonstrated higher percentages of fear of contracting the virus during theoretical classes. Same observations were found when students answered about their fear of contracting coronavirus during the clinical practice classes. However, G2 presented the highest agreement responses for the preparedness feeling to return to theoretical classroom, clinical practice classes, and the possibility of applying online learning.CONCLUSIONS: In general, students’ knowledge had little influence on perception of personal life. However, students who have more knowledge in operative dentistry presented more security about returning to clinical classes.

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Medical students and doctors’ perceptions toward COVID‑19 health communication on social media

. Resiana Citra; . Rizma Adlia Syakurah

Volume 12, Issue 2 , February 2022, , Pages 1-12

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Ineffective health communication could cause the increase of COVID‑19 cases in Indonesia. Medical students can involve in efforts in health communication on social ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Ineffective health communication could cause the increase of COVID‑19 cases in Indonesia. Medical students can involve in efforts in health communication on social media to positively impact prevention behaviors during a pandemic. This study aims to identify and analyze medical students’ and internship doctors’ perceptions toward health communication related to COVID‑19 through social media.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A mixed method with exploratory sequential used. A qualitative study was done using phenomenology approach through deep and semi‑structured interviewing. After data analysis, the draft of the instrument prepared. Items in the draft selected based on the respondents’ answer. Then, a quantitative cross‑sectional study was used. The data obtained from 399 medical students and doctors at a University in Indonesia using Google Form on October 14 to October 20, 2020 through media social. Data were analyzed using Pearson Correlation and Chi‑square (alternative: Fisher’s exact test) and logistic regression analysis with P < 0.05 and 95% confidence interval, respectively.RESULTS: Based on interview, respondents communicate health on social media because the condition of COVID‑19 in Indonesia is dangerous, feel vulnerable to COVID‑19, understand the benefits, obligations, or responsibilities as a candidate and/or medical personnel and believe theycan create content/find valid sources. Meanwhile, the perception of limited knowledge is their biggestobstacle in conducting health communication. There were a relationship between gender (P = 0.028, PR = 0.657), perceived severity (P = 0.044, PR (Prevalence Ratio) =4.844 [0.725–32,354]), perceived susceptibility (P = 0.005, PR = 1.803 [1.182–2.750]), perceived barrier (P < 0.001, PR = 2.543 [1.908–3.388]), and self‑efficacy (P = 0.012, PR = 1.810 [1.120–2.926]) with health communication behavior. The perceived barrier (P < 0.001, RR = 4.278 [2.709–6.754]) and perceived susceptibility (P = 0.004, PR = 2.304 [1.302–4.077]) were the most influenced behavior.CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that perceived severity, perceived susceptibility, perceived barrier, and self‑efficacy are predictor factors of health communication behavior related to COVID‑19on social media with perceptions of susceptibility and perceived barriers as the most influentialvariables. It is necessary to provide communication learning on social media as effectively and applied directly to reduce perceived barriers and increase self‑efficacy.

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Lifestyle factors influencing medical and nursing student’s health status at the rural health‑care institute

. Ravi Shekhar; . Nidhi Prasad; . Tulika Singh

Volume 12, Issue 1 , January 2022, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) may be influenced by lifestyle behavior,acquired during transition in student life at university. Health is a major concern globally. Thedeveloping ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) may be influenced by lifestyle behavior,acquired during transition in student life at university. Health is a major concern globally. Thedeveloping counties are facing a double burden of disease, both communicable and NCD. Thisstudy is aimed to assess the lifestyle and its associated factors that can affect the health status ofmedical and nursing students.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A community‑based cross‑sectional study was conducted amongmedical and nursing students of Sasaram, Bihar, by universal sampling. The study populationconsisted of 303 medical and 233 nursing students. The 536 students in the study, included 195from rural areas and 341 from urban areas. Simple Lifestyle Indicator Questionnaire was used andChi‑square statistics was computed to determine the association of demographic variables withlifestyle behavior using Epi InfoTM 7 analysis software.RESULTS: Mean age and body mass index were 21 ± 2.59 years and 22.12 ± 3.77, respectively.After statistical analysis utilizing the Chi‑square test, it was shown that the difference was found tobe nonsignificant (P > 0.05) in all the following variables, such as gender, age, marital status exceptin designation, and alcohol and tobacco intake which showed the difference to be highly significant.CONCLUSIONS: The maximum number of students in the study population showed intermediatehealthy lifestyle (57.1%), despite being the upcoming health‑care providers of future. Fruits wererarely present in diet in 82%, no physical activity in 21.2%, and tobacco and alcohol were consumedby 11.7% and 13%, respectively. Targeted intervention for healthy diet, physical activity, stress,tobacco, and alcohol reduction can lead to healthy lifestyle. Independence and autonomy gained inthe transition phase in student life needs guided supervision to raise responsible adults. It may helpto assist or to plan accordingly in future to improve lifestyle of the students.

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Survey of happiness in students of Iran University of Medical Sciences and its relationship with students’ attitudes toward the field of education and the future of career

. Zahra Rahimi Khalifeh Kandi; . Arash Ziapour; . Razieh Pirouzeh; . Mitra Faghihi; . Hadi Jalilvand; . Morteza Mansourian

Volume 11, Issue 10 , November 2021, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Happiness is one of the main components of mental health that plays an importantrole in promoting people’s health. This study aimed to investigate the status of happiness ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Happiness is one of the main components of mental health that plays an importantrole in promoting people’s health. This study aimed to investigate the status of happiness in studentsof Iran University of Medical Sciences and its relationship with students’ attitudes toward the field ofeducation and the future of career in 2017.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross‑sectional study was performed on 500 students of IranUniversity of Medical Sciences The data collection tool was a questionnaire consisting of threeparts: demographic information, Oxford Happiness Inventory; A questionnaire was used to measurestudents’ attitudes about their career future, which was completed by students of Iran Universityof Medical Sciences. In order to analyze the data, SPSS software version 24 and descriptive andanalytical statistics were used.RESULTS: Findings showed that 72% of students had a good level of happiness. There is also asignificant relationship between happiness and attitude toward the field of study. According to theresults, there is a significant relationship between the career future and the amount of happiness.There was a significant relationship between gender and happinessCONCLUSION: The study findings show that, by planning correctly in determining the fields ofeducation and ensuring the future of the job, happiness can be improved among students. Therefore,it is recommended that the authorities take the students with the correct needs assessment in thefield of business education in the field of study.

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The association between body mass index and health literacy in high school Students: A cross‑sectional study

. Mohammad Reza Zare‑Zardiny; . Faroukh Abazari; . Mohammad Ali Zakeri; . Majid Dastras; . Jamileh Farokhzadian

Volume 11, Issue 10 , November 2021, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Obesity and overweight in children and adolescents have become a global problemin recent years. Adolescence increases the likelihood of obesity in adulthood and associated ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Obesity and overweight in children and adolescents have become a global problemin recent years. Adolescence increases the likelihood of obesity in adulthood and associated illnesses.Nowadays, health literacy is one of the greatest determinants of the health. This study was conductedto evaluate the correlation between body mass index (BMI) and health literacy in high school students.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this descriptive‑analytical study, 430 high school students wereenrolled in a multi‑stage random method in Yazd city in the center of Iran. The data were collectedthrough The Health Literacy Measure for Adolescents and calculate BMI with measurement ofheight and weight of adolescents. The data were then analyzed using SPSS 25 and descriptive andinferential statistics (Chi‑square and multivariate regression).RESULTS: The results showed that the mean score of BMI (21.76 ± 3.76) was in a normal range.The score of health literacy was at the borderline level (58.44 ± 13.79). BMI was not significantlycorrelated with health literacy (P = 0.09). BMI was significantly different in terms of age, high schoolgrade, school type, and health status. School type and health status predict 37% of the variance ofBMI (R2 = 37%) and the best predictor was health status (P < 0.05).CONCLUSIONS: The results of the present study showed that BMI was not correlated with healthliteracy and student health literacy was at the borderline level. It is necessary to carry out furtherstudies on the causes and facilitators and the barriers to increasing health literacy. Furthermore,educational interventions are needed to prevent the increase of BMI in adolescents and identifydetermining factors.

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Online learning in nursing students: Satisfaction and barriers

. Ashok Kumar; . Nipin Kalal; . Nimarta Rana; . Himanshu Vyas; . Vikas Choudhary; . Raj Rani

Volume 11, Issue 10 , November 2021, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The nationwide coronavirus (COVID‑19) pandemic and ensuing lockdown hasenforced institutions crosswise India to provisionally close to inhibit the spread of the virus ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The nationwide coronavirus (COVID‑19) pandemic and ensuing lockdown hasenforced institutions crosswise India to provisionally close to inhibit the spread of the virus andstarted online learning for students. To measure the level of satisfaction of nursing students withonline learning and to identify the barriers which restrict to online learning.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The current study adopted quantitative research approach with anonline survey research design and carried out during May–June 2020. Participants were selectedthrough a web‑based survey (Google form), in which 219 students enrolled. Self‑structuredquestionnaire with the Likert scale was used to measure the level of satisfaction of nursing studentswith online learning and identify the barriers which restrict online learning. The descriptive andinferential statistics were used for the analysis in which 219 participants were enrolled in the studyof data with IBM SPSS version 20.RESULTS: Majority of student’s participants 148 (67.57%) were extremely satisfied with onlinelearning. The findings suggest that the highest barriers which restrict to online learning amongnursing students is low voice and language clarity (2.16 ± 0.593), physical health barriers such aseye strain (2.43 ± 0.613), reliability and connectivity problem (2.26 ± 0.534). Among all demographicdata, age is significantly associated with the level of satisfaction of online learning.CONCLUSIONS: The study data indicated that maximum students were extremely satisfied the withonline learning and among barriers which effect online learning is low voice and language clarity,reliability and connectivity problem, physical health barriers such as eye strain.

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Mental health status of students pursuing professional training: A questionnaire‑based study

. Swikruti Behera; . Srinikhila Satya Santhoshi Lakshmi Paluri1; . Alpana Mishra

Volume 11, Issue 9 , October 2021, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Globally, depression is one of the leading causes of illness and disability amongadolescents, and suicide is the third leading cause of death among the young and adolescents.Since ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Globally, depression is one of the leading causes of illness and disability amongadolescents, and suicide is the third leading cause of death among the young and adolescents.Since we have limited data on the prevalence of psychological distress among the youth of India,our aim was to estimate the prevalence of psychological distress, anxiety, and depression amongstudents of professional colleges.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh (India).A total of 502 apparently healthy students have participated in this study. Data were collected from243 medical students, 119 engineering students, 103 dental students, and 36 nursing students.A pretested, prevalidated, and structured Kessler’s Psychological Distress Scale (K10) was used forthe assessment of mental health among students. This is a self‑administered questionnaire‑basedcross‑sectional study. Microsoft Office Excel was used for data storage and tabulation. Mean,standard deviation, Chi‑square test, Mann–Whitney U‑test, and Kruskal–Wallis test were used tofind the association difference between various parameters using SPSS 22 software.RESULTS: Out of 502 students, 34.7% of students were found to have normal mental health, 135students were having mild mental problems, and 116 and 77 had moderate and severe mental illness,respectively. Out of 197 males, 66 were normal, 61, 46, and 24 had mild, moderate, and severemental problems, respectively. Out of 305 females, only 108 were found to be normal.CONCLUSION: Male students were found to have higher prevalence of mental abnormalities.A significant higher prevalence of depression is seen in day‑scholars compared to hostellers. Nursingstudents are having significantly higher prevalence of depression and nonpsychotic mental illnessas compared to dental, engineering, and medical students. Medical students are having the lowestrate of depression than other nonmedical professional subjects.

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The effect of integration of basic and clinical aspects of a specific topic in a parasitology course on medical students learning: A randomized controlled trial

. Mitra Amini; . Fattaneh Mikaeili; . Farhad Handjani; . Gholamreza Hatam; . Qasem Asgari

Volume 11, Issue 9 , October 2021, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND AND AIM: Parasitology course is one of the basic science courses in the educationalcurriculum for medical students. Since the integration of basic and clinical sciences has ...  Read More BACKGROUND AND AIM: Parasitology course is one of the basic science courses in the educationalcurriculum for medical students. Since the integration of basic and clinical sciences has helpedstudents better understand the basic science course content, the aim of the present study was todetermine the effect of integration of basic and clinical aspects of a specific topic in a parasitologycourse on medical students learning.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A randomized controlled trial was conducted on 110 undergraduatefifth‑semester medical students from April to July 2018. The students were randomly divided into twogroups, based on student identification number: Intervention and control groups. The topic selectedfor this study from the parasitology course was “cutaneous leishmaniasis.” At the beginning of theprogram, a dermatologist presented the clinical aspects of the topic to the intervention group. Then,a parasitologist delivered a traditional lecture about the basic aspects of the topic to both groups.The students’ scores on questions related to cutaneous leishmaniasis in the final exam were usedas a measure of learning and teaching outcomes. A questionnaire that consisted of seven items andthree open‑ended questions was used based on the objectives of the randomized controlled trial.Statistical analysis was performed by SPSS software.RESULTS: Based on the result of the final examination, there was no significant difference inthe learning rate of students between the intervention and control groups (P ≥ 0.05). Accordingto students’ comments, the teaching of clinical science alongside basic science increased theimportance of the topic and the students’ interest in basic science. Most students agreed that thismethod prepares them for their clinical years.CONCLUSION: Many medical students believe that the content of many basic science courses areforgotten in the future. Therefore, basic science education alongside clinical science presentationsare suggested.

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Assessing readiness to change in regular breakfast consumption among elementary students

. Mahsa Mohajeri; . Sajjad Narimani; . Fardin Shahbazzadeh; . Saniyeh Bahrampanah; . Vida Qaderi

Volume 11, Issue 9 , October 2021, , Pages 1-5

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Motivation and desire are the main psychological factors associated with regularbreakfast consumption among elementary students. The purpose of this study was to assess ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Motivation and desire are the main psychological factors associated with regularbreakfast consumption among elementary students. The purpose of this study was to assess thereadiness of students to regular breakfast consumption.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This research was cross‑sectional study; 300 students participatedwho were selected based on cluster sampling from elementary schools in different parts of Ardabiland were interviewed using a motivational questionnaire according to SOC model. The acquireddata was then analyzed by ANOVA and linear regression.RESULTS: Cognitive processes of change such as social liberation (β = 0.31, α = 0.001) andself‑reevaluation (β = 0.13, α = 0.04) and self‑efficacy (β = 0.44, α = 0.001) played a significant rolein motivating students to move from the inactive stage to preparation stage.CONCLUSION: By understanding the motivational factors of regular breakfast consumption, a regularprogram can be implemented to increase breakfast consumption and ensure the health of studentsand help them to grow in learning ability and abstract thinking.

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Designing an educational campaign intervention on smoking preventive behaviors in students: A protocol

. Seyed Saeed Mazloomy Mahmoodabad,; . Salime Zare Abdollahi; . Mohammad Hasan Lotfi

Volume 11, Issue 9 , October 2021, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Todays, human lifestyle has faced significant changes, and this lifestyle hascaused health problems. The increase of smoking, among young people, is one of the risk factorsand ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Todays, human lifestyle has faced significant changes, and this lifestyle hascaused health problems. The increase of smoking, among young people, is one of the risk factorsand incorrect lifestyle factors. The present study will design an educational campaign interventionbased on the protection motivation theory (PMT) on smoking preventive behaviors in students.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In designing this study, five phases are considered. (1) needsassessment and determination of the current situation are considered. In this phase, the requiredcommunication is established to form a planning team with key and influential people and experts, (2)tool design, (3) educational intervention (educational campaign) is designed. Some individuals willbe selected and trained as facilitators to start entering the target population, have a better accessto the target group, and implement the interventions in the target group. (4) the implementation ofthe educational plan, in which the designed educational intervention (educational campaign) willbe implemented on the students of the studied universities. (5) the educational evaluation, whichwill be conducted 2 months after the intervention of the educational campaign. The posttest will bebased on before and after the implementation of the educational campaign. In the prevention of thesecond type in smoking students, the salivary cotinine levels of smoking students will be measuredand comparisons will be made before and after educational using appropriate statistical tests.RESULTS: The present study addresses the needs and strategies for smoking prevention using atraining campaign based on the PMT and web .CONCLUSION: Designing a campaign which will lead to smoking preventive behaviors causeslifestyle changes, prevent health problems such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and otherchronic diseases, reduce treatment costs, and increase life expectancy.

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