Journal of Education and Health Promotion

Study of clinical features of patients with COVID‑19 hospitalized in an educational hospital in Iran

. Abbas Homauni; . Ladan Ghadami; . Hamed Abdollahi; . Alireza Namazi Shabestari; . Behzad Asanjarani

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-5

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The outbreak of new pathogens or the resurgence of pathogens that have alreadyspread is a serious challenge to public health. Coronavirus is a pathogen that seems to invade ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The outbreak of new pathogens or the resurgence of pathogens that have alreadyspread is a serious challenge to public health. Coronavirus is a pathogen that seems to invade thehuman respiratory system in the first place. Coronaviruses form a large family and are so calledbecause of the presence of crown like cristae on their surface.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a cross‑sectional, descriptive study conducted to assess thestatus of patients with COVID‑19 who were hospitalized in an educational hospital. For this purpose,142 patients hospitalized in this hospital were followed up 2 weeks after discharge and were inquired aboutthe symptoms they had upon admission to the hospital, the number of hospitalization days, the history ofunderlying disease, and so on. Descriptive data analysis was done with the SPSS software version 22.RESULTS: The findings of this research showed that overweight or obese people (about 66%)is more likely to contract the disease. It also seems that older people (37.3% older than 60 yearsold) and those with a history of diseases (69.6%) such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heartdisease are more prone to COVID‑19. The most common symptoms of COVID‑19 patients includedfever (64.5%), shortness of breath (67.4%), and dry cough (50.4%).CONCLUSION: it seems that high risk group (obese people, old people, and people with a history ofdisease) is more likely to be infect with coronavirus so they should more careful than others. Anotherimportant issue is that policy‑makers must play an active role in public awareness of dangers ofCOVID‑19 and ways to prevent it.

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The contribution of physical and sports education to health education of Moroccan middle school students: Representations and practices of teachers

. Abdelaziz Razouki; . Salah‑Eddine Khzami; . Sabah Selmaoui; . Boujemaa Agorram

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Physical education is undergoing a major transformation period that leads thatschool discipline to influence the lifestyles of young people to help them adopt behaviors ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Physical education is undergoing a major transformation period that leads thatschool discipline to influence the lifestyles of young people to help them adopt behaviors conducive totheir well health and well‑being. Health education (HE) integrates with various intervention strategiesin the field of health such as disease prevention and health promotion. In schools, the HE comesin many forms and in relation to several disciplines. Our study focuses on the current situation ofHE in physical and sports education (PSE) in middle school. Specifically, the research question wedeveloped is: “What is the contribution of the PSE to the HE of middle school students?”MATERIALS AND METHODS: This qualitative research was carried in Marrakech. Semi‑structuredinterviews were conducted with ten PSE teachers after receiving their informed consent. Deductivecontent analysis was used in this study.RESULTS: Among the main results, there is a certain diversity of teachers’ representations on HEand PSE. These teachers say mobilize PSE to contribute to the HE of students. However, it was notedthat their teaching practices are at odds with the perspective of the inclusion of HE in the field of PSE.CONCLUSIONS: In the absence of a clear vision concerning physical activity and sport in relation to“healthy” and “active” schools, it seems very unlikely to influence the thoughts and practices of HEteachers; strongly attached, as they often are, to their representations of their discipline.

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Social media exposure and mental health problems during coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic in Indonesia

. Nata Pratama Hardjo Lugito; . Vika Damay; . Henny Chyntya; . Natasya Sugianto

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Several preventive measures were used by governments around the world tosuppress the transmission of SARS‑CoV‑2, including quarantine. During quarantine more peopleare ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Several preventive measures were used by governments around the world tosuppress the transmission of SARS‑CoV‑2, including quarantine. During quarantine more peopleare at risk of developing mental health problems as social media exposure was increasing.OBJECTIVES: The objective is to investigate the impact of social media exposure during coronavirusdisease 2019 (COVID‑19) pandemic on depression, anxiety, and stress.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional study was conducted between April and May 2020during the large scale social restriction in Indonesia using online questionnaire Indonesian citizensover 18 years of age were invited to take part by answering online questionnaire through Googleforms (http://bit.ly/duniamayaCOVID). Data gathered were demographic data, depression, anxiety,and stress that were assessed using Depression Anxiety Stress Scale‑21, duration of social mediausage, and social media platforms used during COVID‑19 pandemic. Data was analysed usingPearson Chi‑square and ANOVA. Statistically significant variables and additional risk factors wasanalyzed using multinomial logistic regression.RESULTS: The median age was 24 years (range 17–56 years), 121 (55,0%) samples were female.The three most frequent social media platforms used by participants were Instagram, WhatsApp, andYouTube. Female were more likely to suffer from mild‑moderate depression compared to male (oddsratio [OR]: 2.344; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.105–4.972; P = 0.026) and more likely to sufferfrom severe‑extremely severe anxiety (OR: 2.066; 95% CI: 1.019–4.187; P = 0.044). Social mediaexposure was associated with less likelihood to suffer from severe‑extremely severe depression,mild‑moderate, and severe‑extremely severe anxiety, mild‑moderate stress.CONCLUSION: Social media exposure was associated with less depression, anxiety, and stress inthe COVID‑19 pandemic era. Medical professionals and government officials could use social mediato disseminate knowledge about COIVD‑19 to bring positive psychological effect.

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Context, Input, Process, and Product Evaluation Model in medical education: A systematic review

. Monireh Toosi; . Maryam Modarres; . Mitra Amini; . Mehrnaz Geranmayeh

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-12

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Evaluation is one of the most important tools for determining the quality of anyeducational program, which can lead to reformation, revision, or termination of programs. ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Evaluation is one of the most important tools for determining the quality of anyeducational program, which can lead to reformation, revision, or termination of programs. Qualityin higher education requires assessment and judgment of goals and strategies, executive policies,operational processes, products, and outcomes. The Context, Input, Process, and Product (CIPP)model is a comprehensive perspective that attempts to provide information in order to make thebest decisions related to CIPP. Due to the importance of this topic, the present study examined theapplication of the CIPP model in the evaluation of medical education programs through a systematicreview.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this systematic review, Persian databases including ISC, SID, MagIran, CivilicaL, and Noormags and English databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus,ProQuest Dissertations, Embase, CINAHL, ERIC, and Google Scholar were searched using relevantkeywords, such as evaluation, program evaluations, outcome and process assessment, educationalassessment, and educational measurements. The search was done with no time limits and 41papers were obtained until May 22, 2020. This systematic review was performed by following thedata extraction steps and assessing the quality of the studies and findings. Critical Appraisal SkillsPrograms and Mixed‑Methods Appraisal Tool checklists were used to check the quality of the papers.RESULTS: This systematic review was conducted on 41 studies, 40 of which were research papersand one was a review paper. From the perspective of the CIPP model of evaluation, most papersshowed quite a good level of evaluation of educational programs although some studies reportedpoor levels of evaluation. Moreover, factors such as modern teaching methods, faculty members,financial credits, educational content, facilities and equipment, managerial and supervisory process,graduates’ skills, produced knowledge, and teaching and learning activities were reported as thefactors that could influence the evaluation of educational programs.CONCLUSION: Due to the important role of evaluation in improvement of the quality of educationalprograms, policymakers in education should pay special attention to the evaluation of educationalprograms and removal of their barriers and problems. To promote the quality of educationalprograms, policymakers and officials are recommended to make use of the CIPP model of evaluationas a systemic approach that can be used to evaluate all stages of an educational program fromdevelopment to implementation.

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Capturing the patient’s voice: Kano Analysis of the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey

. Sandeep Tripathi; . Imadh Khan; . Cynthia D. Read; . Matthew J. Mischler

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Traditional methods are not able to differentiate which feature customers regardas attractive, mandatory, performance, and which feature customers are indifferent about. ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Traditional methods are not able to differentiate which feature customers regardas attractive, mandatory, performance, and which feature customers are indifferent about. Thesecategories can only be differentiated based on a specific technique called Kano survey. Specificaim of this study was to categorize the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers andSystems (HCAHPS) patient satisfaction survey questions into Kano categories.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Design of the study was survey research. It was conducted from6/2019 to 8/2019 at OSF Saint Francis Medical Centre in Peoria, Illinois, USA. A 34 question Kanosurvey (17 positive and 17 negative questions) based on HCAHPS patient questionnaire wasdesigned. Surveys were analyzed using Kano analysis template. Comparative analysis of Kanocategories based on demographics was also performed.RESULTS: 39 current patients and 25 caregivers completed the survey. All of the 17 HCAHPSquestions except “noise level at night” were classified as mandatory requirement with highest numberfor information on “indications of medicines.” There was a minimum variability in the satisfactioncoefficients but large variation in the dissatisfaction coefficients. More patients above 50 years consider“help going to bathroom” as mandatory (70.2% vs. 40.7%, P = 0.01). Sixty‑four percent of caregiversconsidered “explain things (nurse)” as mandatory as opposed to 51.2% of patients (P = 0.03).CONCLUSION: Current U. S healthcare consumers have high expectations from healthcare deliveryand consider most HCAHPS questions as mandatory requirements. Kano analysis needs to be doneon a larger, more diverse hospital setting and potentially the HCAHPS survey needs to be modifiedto reflect prevailing healthcare customer requirements.

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The effect of peer group on self‑care behaviors and glycemic index in elders with type II diabetes

. Zahra Khiyali; . Afsaneh Ghasemi; . Razie Toghroli; . Arash Ziapour; . Nahid Shahabi; . Azizollah Dehghan; . Asiyeh Yari

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Diabetes is one of the most expensive and chronic diseases of elderly age.Knowledge and self‑care behaviors play an important role in treating diabetes and preventing ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Diabetes is one of the most expensive and chronic diseases of elderly age.Knowledge and self‑care behaviors play an important role in treating diabetes and preventing its sideeffects. This study aimed to investigate the effect of peer group on self‑care behaviors and glycemicindex in the elderly with type II diabetes mellitus in Fasa city, Fars province.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This quasi‑experimental study was conducted on 100 elderlypatients with type II diabetes (50 patients in the intervention group and 50 in control group) referredto the diabetes center. Among the elderly, the intervention group was selected as a trainer based onthe checklist of the peer group and was trained by the researcher. In addition to the usual care of thediabetes clinic, the patients in the intervention group received training from their peers for 8 weeksduring 8–45 min of training sessions. Data were collected using a valid self‑reported questionnaireincluding demographic variables, awareness, and diabetes self‑care behaviors (Summary of DiabetesSelf‑care Activities), as well as free practice (fasting blood sugar [FBS] and hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c]),which was completed by both groups before and 2 months after the intervention. Then, the datawere entered into the SPSS statistical software, version 22 and were analyzed using Chi‑square test,independent t‑test, and descriptive statistical methods. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.RESULTS: The results showed that the two groups of intervention and test were identical in termsof demographic information. In the intervention group, before and after 2 months of educationalintervention, there was a significant difference in increasing awareness and self‑care behavior indiet, physical activity, blood sugar testing, foot care, and medication (P < 0.001). However, thisdifference was not significant in the control group (P < 0.05). In the intervention group, the meanFBS and quarterly (HbA1c) index decreased significantly (P < 0.05).CONCLUSION: This study showed that teaching self‑care program, in the same way, has beeneffective in improving self‑care behavior and blood sugar index in the elderly with diabetes andsuggested that this educational method be used in other chronic diseases.

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The effects of educational intervention on breast self‑examination and mammography behavior: Application of an integrated model

. Asiyeh Pirzadeh; . Sakine Ansari; . Parastoo Golshiri

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women and it is thesecond leading cause of mortality among cancers in women and a major health issue in developedcountries. ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women and it is thesecond leading cause of mortality among cancers in women and a major health issue in developedcountries. Although there are simple and effective screening methods, just minority of women usethem. Given the high prevalence of breast cancer in Isfahan women and the low prevalence ofscreening behavior, the present study aimed to determine the impact of theory‑based educationalintervention on breast self‑examination (BSE) behavior and mammography.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present experimental study was conducted on 93 women referredto comprehensive health centers in Isfahan through convenience sampling, and by this way 46 womenwere included in the control group and 47 in the intervention group. Data collection was done bya valid and reliable questionnaire. Furthermore, educational interventions were performed for theintervention group in three sessions. Furthermore, the data were completed in the intervention groupbefore, immediately after, and 3 months after intervention and before and 3 months after interventionin the control group. The data were analyzed by SPSS (16); and paired t‑test and repeated measuretest were used for analysis in the intervention group and also independent t‑test and paired t‑testwere employed to analyze data of the control group.RESULTS: The results showed significant changes in perceived benefit constructs (P = 0.023),knowledge (P < 0.001), self‑efficacy (P < 0.001), and behavioral intention regarding BSE (P = 0.035)in the intervention group over time, but changes were not significant in both perceived susceptibilityand severity in the intervention group. As far as mammography behavior is concerned, only theperceived benefit construct in the intervention group had significant changes. In terms of the screeningbehavior, only BSE behavior significantly changed before and after intervention.CONCLUSION: The study showed that theory‑based education by applying of constructs suchas perceived benefits and self‑efficacy and intention for BSE model could promote breast cancerscreening behavior such as BSE. Therefore, it is suggested that health educators utilize educationaltexts based on these constructs to increase their influence on individuals via screening behaviorfor breast cancer.

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Profile and antibiotic‑resistance pattern of bacteria isolated from endotracheal secretions of mechanically ventilated patients at a tertiary care hospital

. Mohan Bilikallahalli Sannathimmappa; . Vinod Nambiar; . Rajeev Aravindakshan; . Nashwa M. Al‑Kasaby

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Critically ill patients on mechanical‑ventilation are always at a higher risk ofacquiring ventilator‑associated respiratory infections. The current study was intended ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Critically ill patients on mechanical‑ventilation are always at a higher risk ofacquiring ventilator‑associated respiratory infections. The current study was intended to determinethe antibiotic‑resistance pattern of bacteria recovered from the endotracheal (ET) specimens ofventilated patients.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a single‑centered, retrospective study carried out in a 400‑bedtertiary care hospital in Oman. The data of profile and antibiotic resistance pattern of bacterial isolatesrecovered from ET aspirates of ventilated patients during the period from January 2017 to August2019 were retrieved from hospital database. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Packagefor the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 22 (IBM, Armonk, New York, USA). Descriptivestatistics were applied to find the frequencies and percentages. Charts and tables were constructed.RESULTS: In total, 201 bacterial isolates recovered from ET secretions of 154 ventilated patients werestudied. The rate of isolation was predominant among males (65.6%) and in elderly people (50%).Gram‑negative bacilli (GNB) were predominantly (88.6%) isolated. Acinetobacter baumannii (31.3%)was the most common isolate and 86% of them were multidrug‑resistant strains. Klebsiellapneumoniae (23.9%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (22.9%) were the other common GNB, whereasStaphylococcus aureus was the most frequently isolated Gram‑positive bacteria. Gentamicin showedgood in vitro activity against S. aureus and all the GNB except A. baumannii reflecting good choicefor empirical therapy.CONCLUSION: Gram‑negative bacteria were the predominant isolates in ET secretions of ventilatedpatients. There was an alarmingly high rate of antimicrobial resistance among GNB. A rational useof antibiotics, regular monitoring of antibiotic resistance and use of right combination of drugs, inaddition to refining of existing infection control practices are critical to control the emergence ofdrug‑resistant strains.

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Coronavirus disease 2019 in pregnancy: Maternal and perinatal outcome

. Neha Agarwal; . Ruchika Garg; . Saroj Singh; . Arti Agrawal

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Since the advent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) infection, there isdebate whether pregnancy outcome in COVID‑19 is more severe as compared to general population.Pregnant ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Since the advent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) infection, there isdebate whether pregnancy outcome in COVID‑19 is more severe as compared to general population.Pregnant population is particularly susceptible to viral infections due to altered immune response.H1N1 infection and Zika virus infection led to unfavorable maternal and fetal outcomes.SARS duringpregnancy has been linked previously with high risk of spontaneous abortions, preterm births andintrauterine growth restriction. The effects of this novel virus need to be studied.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a single‑center descriptive prospective observational studyof 65 pregnant women with reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction confirmed COVID‑19infection, regardless of gestational age at diagnosis, admitted from April 15 to June 30, 2020, at theCOVID hospital in SN Medical college a tertiary center of Agra in North India. Maternal and perinataloutcomes were studied. Data were analyzed using the SPSS software for windows. Continuousvariables were expressed as mean ± standard deviation. Categorical variables were expressed asnumbers and percentages.RESULTS: Majority 88.4% of the women were asymptomatic. Rest had mild illness only. Majority94.23% were third‑trimester pregnancies; preterm birth was not reported in any singleton pregnancy.Majority 85% were delivered by cesarean section done for obstetric indications.Maternal outcome ofall patients was favourable, and only two women who had moderate pneumonia recovered. Maternalmortality was reported in only 1 case. All neonates were negative for COVID‑19. Neonatal outcomewas favorable.CONCLUSION: COVID‑19 in pregnancy led to mild symptoms only.Infection in the third trimesterdid not led to adverse obstetric outcome including preterm labor and premature membrane rupture.SARSCoV2 infection in pregnancy did not increase the risk of maternal mortality. Vertical transmissionof COVID‑19 was not found in neonates .The maternal, neonatal, and perinatal outcomes ofCOVID‑19 patients infected in late pregnancy were favorable.

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Investigating the relationship between the ethical atmosphere of the hospital and the ethical behavior of Iranian nurses

. Fariba Borhani; . Abbas Abbaszadeh; . Abbas Bahrampour; . Golnaz Forough Ameri; . Azita Aryaeenezhad

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The ethical guidelines and ethical atmosphere of the hospital affect the qualityof nursing care. Improving the health of patients in most cases depends on the observance ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The ethical guidelines and ethical atmosphere of the hospital affect the qualityof nursing care. Improving the health of patients in most cases depends on the observance ofethical points and ethical behaviors by nurses. The aim of this study was to determine the effect ofhospital ethics and ethical training guidelines on improving the quality of nursing care and nurses’professional ethics.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a descriptive‑analytical study. This study was performed bymulti‑stage relative cluster sampling on 260 qualified nurses in 2014. Data were collected using theHospital Ethical Climate Questionnaire and the Judgments about Nursing Decisions Questionnaireand analyzed using SPSS software version 19.RESULTS: The results showed that nurses’ perceptions of the ethical climate of hospitals wererelatively positive. The ethical behavior of nurses was moderate and good. Nurses’ perception of theethical climate scores was not related to the ideal ethical behavior of nurses (r = 0.11, P = 0.86).Theethical climate perceptions of nurses were related to real workplace ethical behavior score (r = 0.188,P = 0.002). The results also showed that ethical guidelines can improve the quality of nursing care.CONCLUSION: Considering the results of this study, it seems that holding nursing ethics trainingprograms can be a big step toward promoting the professional behavior of nurses and the observanceof professional ethics by nurses.

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Challenges of postgraduate emergency nursing program in Iran: A qualitative study

. Reza Norouzadeh; . Mohammad Abbasi

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-5

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Some nursing schools in Iran with the aim of training qualified nurses have set upmaster’s degrees in emergency nursing. In any case, there are challenges in the implementationof ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Some nursing schools in Iran with the aim of training qualified nurses have set upmaster’s degrees in emergency nursing. In any case, there are challenges in the implementationof this discipline in academic nursing centers which prevent the fulfillment of goals and missions inthe curriculum.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this qualitative study, four graduates of the master of emergencynursing and 13 undergraduate students were purposively recruited from the Nursing and MidwiferyFaculty in Qom, Iran. Data were collected through semi‑structured interviews and analyzed throughconventional content analysis.RESULTS: Emergency nursing master’s program challenges consist of two categories: nonproductivecourse design and unresolved infrastructure. The extracted subcategories were unfit curriculum,inappropriate content, nonspecialized program, unclear roles, improper course planning, unskilledhuman resources, and poor educational facilities.CONCLUSION: Based on the experiences of nursing graduates, the curriculum of master ofemergency nursing in Iran needs to be substantially revised in terms of content and structure.

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Investigating the effects of dust storms on morbidity and mortality due to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases: A systematic review

. Ali Sadeghimoghaddam; . Hamidreza Khankeh; . Mehdi Norozi; . Shahrokh Fateh; . Mehrdad Farrokhi

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-12

Abstract

  New epidemiological studies acknowledge the detrimental effects of dust storms on health.The aim of this study was to systematically review the effects of dust storms on the morbidityand ...  Read More New epidemiological studies acknowledge the detrimental effects of dust storms on health.The aim of this study was to systematically review the effects of dust storms on the morbidityand mortality rates of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. The results of this study wereobtained based on articles published in English-language journals. For the purpose of thisstudy, all articles published until the end of 2020 based on the search in the “Scopus,” “Webof Science,” and “PubMed” databases were selected. Articles were searched independentlyby two trained researchers. Dust storms are the cause of many diseases and health-relatedcomplications, of which cardiovascular and respiratory diseases are common. It is necessaryto recognize and investigate the harmful effects of dust storms to prevent serious harmsto human societies. In the reviewed articles, the impact of dust storms on several diseases,including cardiovascular and respiratory diseases,has been analyzed. Most of these articlesacknowledge the effect of dust storms on increasing the incidence and mortality rate of thesediseases, although in some articles this effect is not statistically significant. Many studiesconducted around the world confirm the harmful effects of dust storms on cardiovascularand respiratory diseases, including increase in the number and duration of hospitalizations, aswell as increase in mortality and exacerbation of these diseases. However, some studies do notconsider the harmful effects of dust storms on the above diseases to be statistically significant.

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Epidemiological factors influencing gender preference among mothers attending under‑five immunization clinic: A cross‑sectional comparative study

. Shalini Rawat; . Ashwini Yadav; . Sneha Parve; . Kamaxi Bhate

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Sex ratio is an important social indicator measuring the status and equality offemale in society. The falling sex ratio of our country is a demographic disaster that is ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Sex ratio is an important social indicator measuring the status and equality offemale in society. The falling sex ratio of our country is a demographic disaster that is waiting tohappen and is a matter of grave concern. Perception of gender by mothers or families has long‑termimplications on how children are nurtured during their lives. This study was done to understandmother’s preference for the gender of the child and their concerns about the same.MATERIALS AND METHODS: An observational cross‑sectional study was carried out using asemi‑structured questionnaire. Two hundred and thirty‑four mothers were interviewed. Frequenciesand percentages were calculated. Pearson’s Chi‑square test was used to check the significance ofthe association.RESULTS: Study results depict that 26.47% of the mothers who were already having a malechild still preferred son. Preference for son was 24.52% and 48.61% among earning mothersand nonearning mothers, respectively. Out of 206 mothers said that they would prefer male child.Reasons cited were as follows: sons carry family name forward (30.6%), having daughters leads toincreased expenditure (20.9%), daughters are subjected to different problem in their lifetime mainlyviolence (11.7%), and sons supported their parents in old age (10.7%).CONCLUSION: Preference for male child was found to be equally prevalent in both urban and ruralareas. Mothers should be educated about the effect of declining sex ratio along with financial capacitybuilding of women and providing social security to senior citizens which was the main reason forson preference .The impact of gender imbalance on individuals, families, and on society has to beemphasized at every possible point of contact with health‑care delivery system.

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Improvement of medication error reporting: An applied motivation program in pediatric units

. Laleh Massah; . Rouhangiz Mohammadi; . Mahboobeh Namnabati

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The rate of reporting medication errors is lower than the actual rate. The role ofeducation, encouragement, and promotion of reporting culture can contribute to the increase ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The rate of reporting medication errors is lower than the actual rate. The role ofeducation, encouragement, and promotion of reporting culture can contribute to the increase of errorsreporting. This study was to investigate the effect of motivational program on reporting of medicationerrors in the pediatric units.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A quasi‑experimental study with pre‑ and post‑test design was donethrough 60 nurses working in the pediatric wards of the selected hospital in Isfahan, Iran in 2018–2019.Nurses participated in the study through the census sampling method. Data were collected usinga questionnaire based on eight medication principles completed by the nurses before and after theintervention. The intervention was conducted through a motivational program in two parts of trainingand positive reinforcement. Data were analyzed through the descriptive statistics (frequency, mean,and standard deviation [SD]) as well as inferential statistics (Wilcoxon test and paired t‑test).RESULTS: After the intervention, the most medication error reports (60%) were in the principleof right medication (similar name). Furthermore, the total score (SD) of medication error reportingwas significantly increased from 7.35 (2.43) before the intervention to 17.04 (5.59) after theintervention (t = 8.03, P < 0.001).CONCLUSIONS: Motivational program increased medication error reports. Therefore, themanagers can improve medication care and the safety of children through continuous educationand encouragement in the hospitals.

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Predictors of cognitive emotion regulation strategies: Iranian nurses

. Sakineh Moghaddam Zeabadi; . Fatemeh Hasandoost; . Maryam Momeni; . Amir Hossein Goudarzian; . Seyedehzahra Hosseinigolafshani

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Nurses have a challenging job and encounter more stressful situations. Inresponse to these situations, they demonstrate adaptive or maladaptive cognitive emotion regulationstrategies ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Nurses have a challenging job and encounter more stressful situations. Inresponse to these situations, they demonstrate adaptive or maladaptive cognitive emotion regulationstrategies (CERS). As there is a lack of literature regarding the factors predicting the selection ofCERS , the present study aimed to investigate the role of age, sex, marital status, working experience,type of ward, and education level in predicting these strategies in Iranian nurses.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A descriptive correlational study was conducted to examine predictivefactors’ emotion regulation strategies used by 193 nurses who worked at six hospitals under thesupervision of Qazvin University of Medical Sciences in 2018. The study population were selectedby stratified random sampling method. Data were collected by two questionnaires, one demographicquestionnaire and the other was Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire conducted byGarnefski (α = 0.8). Data analysis was performed using correlation and multiple linear regression.RESULTS: The results showed that there is a significant relationship between the “type of ward”and “age” with adaptive and maladaptive strategies. In the multiple linear regression model, twovariables of age (P = 0.03) and type of ward (P = 0.04) were able to predict 23% of variance CERS.CONCLUSIONS: Based on the results of this study, health‑care providers and hospital managersshould pay attention to factors related to adaptive and maladaptive CERS.

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Designing flipped classroom using Kemp’s instructional model to enhance deep learning and self‑directed collaborative learning of basic science concepts

. Suhasini Padugupati; . Krishna Prakash Joshi; . Thomas V Chacko; . Deepak Jamadar

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The flipped classroom pedagogy allows students to introduce a topic and gathertheir own meanings outside of the classroom, then explore the topic and create their meaningsor ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The flipped classroom pedagogy allows students to introduce a topic and gathertheir own meanings outside of the classroom, then explore the topic and create their meaningsor exclude their misconceptions during class. Our aim was to enhance the ability of self‑directedlearning (SDL) among medical undergraduates. Pedagogical benefits of the model are highlightedalong with potential challenges to its use.MATERIAL AND METHODS: Kemp’s Instructional model was used to design flipped classroom.Need analysis was done to assess the perceptions of the students on the current teaching practicesand their expectations for adoption of innovative methods. Validation of content was done by Delphimethod by subject experts across the institutions. Content included objectives; case scenarios andextended multiple choice questions. Students were divided into two groups. Group A and Group B,50 in each. A topic was given 1 week prior and both groups were subjected to a pretest to identifytheir self‑study performance. Group A was exposed to 4 sessions of flipped classroom. They wereprovided with PowerPoint slides with voice recordings. In the classroom, first 30 min was meant forquiz and next 30 min was meant to clarify the doubts. Group B were exposed to the 4 regular lecturesessions. Both the groups were subjected to the posttest and test after 4 weeks. Later with anothertopic, flipped classroom was conducted for all the 100 students and the feedback was taken fromall the students and faculty using a validated questionnaire.RESULTS: Posttest scores of students who were flipped were statistically significant (p < 0.001).Most (98%) students opined that these interactive sessions evoked interest in the topic. Flippedclassroom sessions were found to be effective in improving students’ learning behavior toward SDL,collaborative learning skills and critically analyzing the basic concepts.CONCLUSIONS: By following a systematic process (Kemp’s instructional Model, it is possibleto design need‑based flipped classroom sessions. They are found to be effective in improvingstudents’ learning behavior toward deep learning, self‑efficacy, SDL, collaborative learning skills,critically analyzing the basic concepts. In a flipped classroom, “the learning environment transformsinto a dynamic and more social space where students can participate in critiques or work throughproblems in teams.

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Assessment of cognitive and psychomotor domains regarding biomedical waste management and hand hygiene among various categories of health‑care professionals at a tertiary care center in Northern India

. Ranjana Rohilla; . Puneet Kumar Gupta; . Himanshu Narula; . Ashok Kumar Sharma; . Vibha Mehta; . Shalinee Rao; . Jyoti Gupta; . Pratima Gupta

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Health care‑associated infections (HAIs) are associated with high morbidity,mortality, and costs in the health‑care sector. Large proportions of HAIs are preventable ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Health care‑associated infections (HAIs) are associated with high morbidity,mortality, and costs in the health‑care sector. Large proportions of HAIs are preventable by followinginfection prevention activities such as hand hygiene (HH) and biomedical waste management (BMWM).AIM: The aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of a structured teaching session on the cognitiveand psychomotor domains of BMWM and HH practices in a tertiary health‑care institute.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Every participant was evaluated for pretest knowledge assessmentusing a prestructured format along with skill demonstration. The training included interactive sessions,open discussion, and demonstration of various skills with the active participation of various participantsby trained faculty and infection control nursing officers. On completion, every participant underwentposttest evaluation.RESULTS: During 11‑month study period, 450 health‑care professionals (HCPs) participated inthe training program. Cognitive domain score increased from 16.3 ± 2.4 to 21.3 ± 2.0 from pre‑ topost‑test, respectively. In psychomotor domain, pre‑ and post‑test scores for HH were 8.3 ± 3.5and 14.3 ± 1.4, for BMWM, the corresponding values were 8.6 ± 2.1 and 9.8 ± 0.7, respectively.Overall change in the mean (± standard deviation) score between pre‑ and post‑test for variousdomains of assessment was 5.0 (±2.7), 6.0 (±3.5), 1.1 (±1.8), and 12.2 (±5.3) for knowledge, HHskill demonstration, BMW segregation skill, and cumulative assessment, respectively.CONCLUSION: The initiation of a structured training program can result in a significant increase inparticipants’ cognitive and psychomotor domains of learning, which may have an indirect impact onthe prevention of HAIs.

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The status of relationship between coping strategies and quality of life in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

. Tahereh Morshedi; . Mahdieh Salehi; . Valiollah Farzad; . Fariba Hassani; . Elham Shakibazadeh

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has a profound effect on patients’ quality oflives; and it is important to identify the affecting factors. The aim of this study was ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has a profound effect on patients’ quality oflives; and it is important to identify the affecting factors. The aim of this study was to assess the statusof and relationship between coping strategies and quality of life in women with PCOS.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross‑sectional study, we recruited 200 married women (20–50 years old) with PCOS from Arash and Bu Ali hospitals in Tehran in 2019–2020. Data were collectedusing the two following questionnaires: Coping strategies and quality of life. Data were analyzedusing the regression analysis test in the SPSS‑21.RESULTS: The results showed that 119 (59.5%) participants were identified with increased hirsutism,166 (83%) women were obese, 140 (70%) had irregular menstruation and 136 participants (68%) hadpainful menstruation as the side effects of PCOS. Sixty nine (34.5%) individuals reported unknownside effects. There was a relationship between emotional coping strategy and problem solving copingstrategy with quality of life (beta = 0.270 and 0.219, respectively).CONCLUSION: Patients with PCOS were more likely to use emotional coping strategies. Low qualityof life exacerbated symptoms of the disease.

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Existential anxiety amid COVID‑19 pandemic in Kashmir: A cross‑sectional study

. Syed Najmul Ain; . Syed Nasir Ahmad Gilani

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Existential anxiety (EA) revolves around the question of ultimate concern relatedto life and death. It gets more prominent when there is an exposure to stressful experiences ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Existential anxiety (EA) revolves around the question of ultimate concern relatedto life and death. It gets more prominent when there is an exposure to stressful experiences wherethe stress is profound and resources seem insufficient. The objective was to measure the prevalenceand magnitude of EA in the study population from the Kashmir valley during the COVID‑19 pandemic.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross‑sectional study, data were collected through social media.All the participants belonging to the Kashmir valley were included. EA questionnaire developed byWeems et al. was used.RESULTS: A total of 132 subjects were included. The prevalence of EA concerns was death 55%,fate 62%, emptiness 73%, meaninglessness 32%, guilt 55%, and condemnation 64%. The mean EAscore was 5.0. EA was higher in those who had been diagnosed with mental illness ever in their lifeby a psychiatrist than those who had no such history. EA score was much higher in those who hadever felt a need to visit a psychiatrist than those who had not. There was no statistically significantdifference in the mean scores of EA for those who never felt this need and those who felt this needsince the start of the COVID‑19 pandemic.CONCLUSION: There was a high prevalence of EA in the study population from the Kashmir valley.Relative concerns were more prevalent than absolute concerns. EA score was higher among thosewho had mental health issues compared to others.

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Effectiveness of video modules in infection control trainings during COVID‑19 pandemic: A quasi‑experimental study in tertiary care institute

. Vanya Singh; . Sakshi Supehia; . Puneet Kumar Gupta; . Himanshu Narula; . Maneesh Sharma; . Komal Devi; . Ashish Ramesh Bhute

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Continuous pertinent trainings for infection prevention and control (IPC) measuresare essential to ensure quality health‑care services along with the safety of the health ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Continuous pertinent trainings for infection prevention and control (IPC) measuresare essential to ensure quality health‑care services along with the safety of the health personnel.Amid the COVID‑19 pandemic, the current study focusses on the utilization of explicated videomodules training of all health‑care personnel of the institute and assessment of the effectiveness ofvideo training for IPC practices during COVID‑19 pandemic.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A quasi‑experimental study, one group pre‑ and posttest design,using Google Questionnaire forms was conducted at a tertiary care center. The training was assistedby trained tutors, and three in‑house videos were demonstrated to the participants regarding specificIPC measures; “Do’s and Don’ts;” “Hand hygiene and personal protective equipment’s (PPE)” and“Environmental cleaning and disinfection.” SPSS software version 23 (IBM Corp., N. Y., USA) wasused for the analysis using the descriptive statistics, Chi‑square test, Fisher’s t‑test, ANOVA, andpost hoc Tukey’s test.RESULTS: The level of knowledge increased significantly by 16% in the posttest. Statisticallysignificant association between the levels of knowledge in pretest as well as posttest scores andage (P < 0.001), designation (P < 0.001), and years of experience (P < 0.001) was identified. Theparticipants were satisfied with the video‑assisted trainings and willing to use videos for revision.CONCLUSIONS: Video‑assisted training modules similar to this study may be utilized to enhancethe knowledge of various cadres of health‑care staff regarding IPC practices.25. Pilieci SN, Salim SY, Heffernan DS, Itani KMF, Khadaroo RG.A randomized controlled trial of video education versus skilldemonstration: Which is more effective in teaching sterile surgicaltechnique? Surg Infect (Larchmt) 2018;19:303‑12.26. KentersN, GottliebT, HopmanJ, Mehtar S, SchweizerML, TartariE,et al. An international survey of cleaning and disinfection practicesin the healthcare environment. J Hosp Infect 2018;100:236‑41.27. Keah KC, Jegathesan M, Tan SC, Chan SH, Chee OM, Cheong YM,et al. Disinfection: Gaps between recommended and actualpractice. Southeast Asian J Trop Med Public Health 1995;26:795‑8.28. Allen M, Hall L, Halton K, Graves N. Improving hospitalenvironmental hygiene with the use of a targeted multi‑modalbundle strategy. Infect Dis Health 2018;23:107‑13.29. Keithly M, Brame C, Woelfle M, Friedman K. Blending it up:Active learning in a STEM classroom through the use of on‑linematerials. In: Abstracts of Papers of the American ChemicalSociety. Vol. 250. Washington, DC 20036 USA: 1155 16th ST, NW,Amer Chemical Soc; 2015.30. Mouneghi HK, Derakhshan A, Valai N, Mortazavi F. Theeffectiveness of video‑based education on gaining practicallearning skills in comparison with demonstrating method’seffectiveness among university students. J Med Educ 2003;4.

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Content analysis of the official curriculum of undergraduate degree in Iran’s medical sciences universities from the perspective of social health: A qualitative study

. Mostafa Amini-Rarani; . Mehdi Nosratabadi

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Social health is considered as an important part of good health both individuallyand socially. The purpose of this study was to examine the content of the official medical ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Social health is considered as an important part of good health both individuallyand socially. The purpose of this study was to examine the content of the official medical sciencescurriculum in undergraduate degrees from a social health perspective.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This qualitative content analysis study was conducted in 2019at the Isfahan University of Medical Sciences using a deductive approach based on Hsieh andShannon's directed content analysis. For this purpose, official curricula in the fields of Public Health,Occupational Health, Environmental Health, Nursing, Midwifery, Nutrition Sciences, and HealthServices Management were analyzed using MAXQDA 12.RESULTS: The results showed that a total of 136 codes related to the components of social healthwere identified in the topics of undergraduate medical sciences majors. Most to least relevanttopics belonged to the fields of Public Health (61 codes), Midwifery (22 codes), Nursing (16 codes),Occupational Health (12 codes), Environmental Health and Nutrition Sciences (each 10 codes), andHealth Services Management (5 codes), respectively. Among the components of social health, only thecomponent related to access to insurance and health services was mentioned in all seven disciplines.However, the components of poverty and inequality were only included in three disciplines (PublicHealth, Nursing, Midwifery).CONCLUSION: Regarding insufficient focus on social health in curricula, revision of educationalcurricula is suggested from the perspective of social health, particularly in areas such as povertyand inequality, unemployment, population, violence, and gender discrimination.

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Shedding light on the causes of academic procrastination among nursing students: A qualitative descriptive study

. Fatemeh Ghaffari; . Sepideh Mohammadi; . Tajmohammad Arazi; . Afsaneh Arzani; . Flora Rahimaghaee

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Academic procrastination is a complex phenomenon and a common behavior amongnursing students. Due to procrastinating behaviors, students cannot show their real performances ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Academic procrastination is a complex phenomenon and a common behavior amongnursing students. Due to procrastinating behaviors, students cannot show their real performances inlearning processes. In order to stop this behavior, it is crucial to know the most common causes ofprocrastination in the first place. The aim of this study was to identify a variety of different possiblefactors influencing academic procrastination among nursing students.MATERIALS AND METHOD: A qualitative study method with the content analysis approach wasconducted from October 2019 to March 2020. Participants were 67 nursing students and 8 nursingeducators from 3 nursing schools in Iran. Face‑to‑face semi‑structured interviews and focus groupdiscussions were used for data gathering. An inductive approach to content analysis was used fordata analysis.RESULTS: Five categories and 24 subcategories emerged from the data analysis: “student‑relatedfactors,” “educator‑related factor,” “assignment characteristic‑related factors,” “institution‑relatedfactors,” and “nursing work‑related factors.”CONCLUSIONS: The present study showed that nursing students’ academic procrastination canhave a wide range of causes and a comprehensive effort is needed to address the problems. Theresult of our study will be useful to nursing students, educators, and nursing administrators in relationto what constitutes nursing students’ academic procrastination, as well as how nursing educationcan play an effective role in decreasing tendency to procrastination.

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Comparison of the effect of training academic honesty using two workshop and virtual training methods on the knowledge and attitude of M. S. students

. Pyam Nikjo; . Fatemeh Vizeshfar; . Nahid Zarifsanayee

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Nowadays, one of the most important challenges of the universities and highereducation centers is academic dishonesty among students. Academic dishonesty is done throughcheating, ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Nowadays, one of the most important challenges of the universities and highereducation centers is academic dishonesty among students. Academic dishonesty is done throughcheating, deception, and plagiarism, which creates serious educational, studious, and social problemsfor the students and society. The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of virtual andworkshop training on the knowledge and attitude of M. S. students in terms of plagiarism.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This research was an applied interventional study of quasi‑experimentaltype having pretest and posttest and the participants of this study included 90 M. S. nursing studentsof Medical Science University of Shiraz in the southwestern part of Iran.RESULTS: The comparison of the three groups indicated that virtual and workshop training, both,developed the knowledge and attitude of students regarding plagiarism; however, the comparisonbetween two methods did not indicate a statistically significant difference.CONCLUSION: Both virtual and workshop training methods had an effect on increasing students’knowledge and attitude. Regarding the positive effect of training academic dishonesty using twoworkshop and virtual training methods, both can be used as efficient and effective methods in trainingdimensions depending on the condition and facilities to prevent and reduce plagiarism in students.

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Notifiable diseases interoperable framework toward improving Iran public health surveillance system: Lessons learned from COVID‑19 pandemic

. Mostafa Shanbehzadeh; . Hadi Kazemi-Arpanahi; . Ali Asghar Valipour; . Atefeh Zahedi

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-11

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Direct transmission of notifiable disease information in a real‑time and reliable wayto public health decision‑makers is imperative for early identification of epidemiological ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Direct transmission of notifiable disease information in a real‑time and reliable wayto public health decision‑makers is imperative for early identification of epidemiological trends as wellas proper response to potential pandemic like ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 crisis. Thus, thisresearch aimed to develop of semantic‑sharing and collaborative‑modeling to meet the informationexchange requirements of Iran’s notifiable diseases surveillance system.MATERIALS AND METHODS: First, the Iran’s Notifiable diseases Minimum Data Set (INMDS)was determined according to a literature review coupled with agreements of experts. Then theINMDS was mapped to international terminologies and classification systems, and the Health Levelseven‑Clinical Document Architecture (HL7‑CDA) standard was leveraged to define the exchangeableand machine‑readable data formats.RESULTS: A core dataset consisting of 15 classes and 96 data fields was defined. Dataelements and response values were mapped to Systematized Nomenclature of Medicine‑ClinicalTerms (SNOMED‑CT) reference terminology. Then HL7‑CDA standard for interoperable dataexchange were defined.CONCLUSION: The notifiable disease surveillance requires an integrative participation ofmultidisciplinary team. In this field, data interoperability is more essential due to the heterogeneousnature of health information systems. Developing of INMDS based on HL7‑CDA along withSNOMED‑CT codes offers an inclusive and interoperable dataset that can help make notifiablediseases data more comparable and reportable across studies and organizations. The proposeddata model will be further modifications in the future according probable changes in Iran’s notifiablediseases list.

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The chunampet community health information management system: A health and demographic surveillance system from a rural South India

. Ariarathinam Newtonraj; . Anil Jacob Purty; . Antony Vincent; . Mani Manikandan; . Joy Bazroy; . Rajesh Kumar Konduru; . Murugan Natesan

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Developed countries have strong health and demographic surveillancesystem (HDSS), whereas there is a dearth of such system in developing countries like India. Indiadepends ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Developed countries have strong health and demographic surveillancesystem (HDSS), whereas there is a dearth of such system in developing countries like India. Indiadepends on national surveys and individual studies for public health information. At present All IndiaInstitute of Medical Sciences – New Delhi HDSS and Vadu HDSS are well established HDSS in India.MATERIALS AND METHODS: We developed a HDSS in a remote rural area of South India andnamed as Community Health Information Management System (CHIMS) This covered 20 villagesaround Rural Health Training Centre – Chunampet. We collected the family and demographicinformation from March 2018 to October 2018. Pregnancy, birth, under‑five and mortality data werecollected once in every 3 months with the help of interns, Medical Social Workers. Data collectiondone using CHIMS Guide and entered in EpiData software. EpiAnalysis, Quantum GeographicInformation System, Dropbox were the other freely available software used in this program.RESULTS: CHIMS HDSS covered 14924 individuals belonging to 4486 households in the surroundingtwenty villages. Population density was 213/km2. CHIMS consumed very limited resources in termsof workforce, materials, and transport. CHIMS database was used as a baseline database for manyother studies. This CHIMS HDSS helped in many publications, postgraduate thesis dissertationsand mainly attracted many extramural research funds from leading government Research Institutesfrom India.CONCLUSION: CHIMS proved to be a robust surveillance system in providing vital public healthinformation about the community and attracted more extramural funds to the institute.

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The effectiveness of mindfulness training on coping with stress, exam anxiety, and happiness to promote health

. Hajar Zandi; . Ali Amirinejhad; . Akbar Azizifar; . Sehat Aibod; . Yousef Veisani; . Fathola Mohamadian

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Mindfulness as an intervention approach in mental health has been increasinglyused to promote health in young people. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Mindfulness as an intervention approach in mental health has been increasinglyused to promote health in young people. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness ofmindfulness training on coping with stress, test anxiety, and happiness to promote health in femalehigh school students.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The design of this study was quasi‑experimental with controlgroup, with pretest and posttest. The statistical population of the study included all the femalestudents studying in the secondary high school in the city of Sanandaj in Iran with 2890 students,40 of whom were selected by simple random sampling method and were randomly assigned to theexperimental (20 individuals) and control groups (20 individuals). Participants completed the OxfordHappiness (0.79), Sarason Exam Anxiety (0.87), and Andler and Parker Stress Management (0.81)Questionnaires. The method of intervention was training based on mindfulness. Data were analyzedusing covariance analysis.RESULTS: The results showed that in the posttest, a significant difference was seen betweenthe mean scores of the participants of the experimental and control groups in the variables ofproblem‑oriented, emotion‑oriented, and avoidant coping variables (P < 0.05). In addition, theresults showed that in the posttest, there was a significant difference between the mean scores oftest anxiety; happiness; and happiness components including life satisfaction, self‑esteem, activewell‑being, satisfaction, and positive mood (P < 0.05).CONCLUSIONS: Based on the results of the present study, it can be said that mindfulness trainingis an effective intervention to improve coping styles, test anxiety, and happiness in students.

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Exploring the surgical residents’ experience of teaching and learning process in the operating room: A grounded theory study

. Leila Sadati; . Shahram Yazdani; . Peigham Heidarpoor

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Despite the development of valuable teaching methods and assessment tools inthe field of surgery education, yet unpreparedness for independence practice by surgical residentsremains ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Despite the development of valuable teaching methods and assessment tools inthe field of surgery education, yet unpreparedness for independence practice by surgical residentsremains a problem in most of the countries.AIMS: This study aims to explain the surgical residents’ experience of the teaching and learningprocess in the operating rooms in Iran.MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study is a qualitative research that was done from May 2019to June 2020 in Tehran and eight other cities in Iran. The selected methodology was constructivistgrounded theory. The study setting was 11 teaching hospitals. Data were collected through 36 in‑depthinterviews and 132 h of observation. Participants were selected initially by purposive sampling andthen by theoretical sampling for covering gaps and completing categories.RESULTS: Findings showed that the confused educational system was the main concern of theresidents’ experience of the teaching and learning process in the operating room. This concern isinvestigated by dividing into four subcategories: Education in the shadow of treatment, inefficienteducation, patient safety versus trusting residents for independent practice, and unstructuredassessment.CONCLUSION: Based on residents’ experience about challenges such as inefficient education,the influence of patient safety versus trusting residents for independent practice, and unstructuredassessment, the surgical residents’ education in the operating rooms needs to revise.

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Why people are becoming addicted to social media: A qualitative study

. Maryam Chegeni; . Parvin Mangolian Shahrbabaki; . Mahin Eslami Shahrbabaki; . Nouzar Nakhaee; . Aliakbar Haghdoost

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Social media addiction (SMA) led to the formation of health‑threatening behaviorsthat can have a negative impact on the quality of life and well‑being. Many factors ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Social media addiction (SMA) led to the formation of health‑threatening behaviorsthat can have a negative impact on the quality of life and well‑being. Many factors can develop anexaggerated tendency to use social media (SM), which can be prevented in most cases. This studyaimed to explore the reasons for SMA.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This qualitative study was conducted using content analysis. Atotal of 18 SM addicted subjects were included through purposive sampling. Data were collectedthrough semi‑structured interviews and analyzed using the Lundman and Graneheim qualitativecontent analysis method.RESULTS: The main category of “weakness in acquiring life skills” was extracted with three themes: “problemsin socializing” (including communicating and escaping loneliness), “problems in resiliency” (includingdevastation in harsh conditions and inability to recover oneself and “lack of problem‑solving skills”(includingweaknesses in analysis and decision making and disorganization in planning).CONCLUSIONS: Weakness in life skills plays an important role in individuals’ addiction to SM andformation of the health‑threatening behaviors. Since SMA can affect behavioral health, policymakersmust adopt educational and preventive programs to increase the knowledge and skills of individualsin different societies in the modern world.

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Determining the relationship between emotional intelligence and interpersonal sensitivity with quality of work life in nurses

. Saeed Tajigharajeh; . Mehdi Safari; . Tahere Sarboozi Hosein Abadi; . Shoaib Sarboozi Hosein Abadi; . Mehdi Kargar; . Mahmoud Panahi; . Mahdi Hasani; . Zeinab Ghaedchukamei

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Emotional intelligence and interpersonal sensitivity are known as important nursingskills. They have significant role in the promotion of nurses working life and the health ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Emotional intelligence and interpersonal sensitivity are known as important nursingskills. They have significant role in the promotion of nurses working life and the health care whichthey provide. The goal of this study was the determination of the relationship between emotionalintelligence and interpersonal sensitivity with quality of work life in nurses working in governmentalhospitals of Tehran city in 2019.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This investigation was a descriptive‑analytical and correlation studywhich was conducted among 256 nurses working in five governmental hospitals in Tehran. The studiednurses were selected through in access sampling method. The instruments of research includeddemographic, emotional intelligence, interpersonal sensitivity, and work life quality questionnaires.The analysis of data was done by descriptive and deductive statistics (t‑test and Pearson correlationcoefficient) and also SPSS.RESULTS: The conditions of emotional intelligence, interpersonal sensitivity, and work life qualityof nurses were, in turn, in average, severe, and weak levels. The correlation between emotionalintelligence and work life quality of nurses was significant (P ≤ 0.05) and they were positively correlatedwith each other (r = 0.311). The relationship between interpersonal sensitivity and work life quality ofnurses was significant (P ≤ 0.05) and they were negatively correlated with each other (r = −0.43).CONCLUSION: The development of emotional intelligence and sensitivity in reciprocally interpersonalrelations of nurses lead to fundamental changes in nurses’ attitude toward themselves, theircolleagues, patients and their profession and can promote their work life quality. Therefore, thesetwo skills are necessary for nurses and they should be taken into consideration by nursing schools,faculty members, instructors, and nursing managers

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Evaluation of clinical outcomes of neonates born to mothers with coronavirus (COVID‑19) in Shahid Beheshti Hospitals

. Maryam Sadat Hosseini; . Afsaneh Hosseini; . Elnaz Ghaffari; . Mitra Radfar; . Fariba Shirvani; . Shahrzad Tabatabai; . Dariush Abtahi; . Mahsa Mirhadi; . Maziyar Mortazavi; . Shideh Ariana

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The coronavirus, which is caused by acute respiratory syndrome, appeared inWuhan, China, in December 2019 and gradually spread around the world until almost all countriesbecame ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The coronavirus, which is caused by acute respiratory syndrome, appeared inWuhan, China, in December 2019 and gradually spread around the world until almost all countriesbecame infected with the coronavirus. In Iran, the outbreak of coronavirus began on February 21,2020, with the report of infection of two people in the city of Qom. The aim of this study is to evaluatethe clinical findings of neonates born to pregnant women with corona disease.MATERIALS AND METHODS: During this case study (February 21 to November 30, 2020), out of88 pregnant mothers who referred to the hospitals of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences,44 live neonates were born from 42 pregnant women with COVID‑19, who were evaluated for clinicalsigns by studying their files and reported as a case series, due to limited samples, No statisticalanalysis of the study was performed.RESULTS: In studies of clinical records of hospitalized mothers and infants, among the polymerasechain reactions (PCRs) provided for all infants, one PCR was reported positive 2 days after birth,whereas this infant 10 min after birth, immediately after routine procedures, due to positive mother’sPCR was isolated from the operating room. However, all of the infant’s clinical symptoms were normalduring the 3‑day hospital stay for routine postpartum care. Twenty‑eight days after birth, the babywas reevaluated for clinical, laboratory, and chest X‑ray symptoms, all of which were normal. ThePCR of other neonates was negative, and five intubated neonates, two twin, and two single died, andthe other neonates were discharged. In evaluating the clinical records of mothers of these infants,the mean age is 30 years, and the average gestational age is 35 weeks, 32 cases of caesareansection, and 10 cases of normal delivery.CONCLUSION: We describe epidemiological data, demographics, signs and symptoms onadmission, laboratory results, comorbidities, infection COVID‑19 in the mothers and neonates,chest radiography and computed tomography findings, treatment received for COVID‑19, andclinical maternal, fetal, and neonatal outcomes. Due to the fact that the study population issmall consist of 42 mothers with COVID‑19 infection, among all PCR samples from infantsborn to COVID‑19 positive mothers, the PCR result of one case was positive, and the rest ofwas negative. Therefore, vertical transmission of COVID‑19 through the placenta to the fetuscannot be confirmed or denied, nor can the COVID‑19 confirmed or denied the baby’s postnatalcomplication during pregnancy.

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Lifestyle intervention for gestational diabetes prevention in rural woman of Shoush city

. Zahra Karimipour; . Nasibeh Sharifi; . Hossein Seydkhani; . Hojat Sayadi; . Mohsen Jalilian

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Physical activity and nutrition interventions are the most important ways to preventgestational diabetes. The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of healthy ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Physical activity and nutrition interventions are the most important ways to preventgestational diabetes. The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of healthy lifestyleintervention to promote preventive behaviors of gestational diabetes in the rural woman of Shoush city.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In an experimental study, 60 pregnant women were selected usingsimple random sampling and allocate into intervention group (n = 30) and nutrition program. Thestudy was conducted from September to June 2018. The data were collected in baseline and 1 monthand 3 months of follow‑up phase and were analyzed using Chi‑square test, repeated‑measure test,and generalized linear model (GLM). The α = 0.05 was considered as significance.RESULTS: The mean age in the intervention and control group was 25.9 ± 5.6 and 27.2 ± 5.9,respectively. The GLM test showed a significant increase in the physical activity level and the meanof nutrition behaviors within the intervention group over time (P = 0.013). Further, based on the resultsof repeated‑measure test, the mean of weekly MET‑minute was increased in the intervention groupin comparison to the control group at 1 month and 3 months of follow‑up (P < 0.001).DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The lifestyle interventions are appropriate programs to thereduction of the risk of development of gestational diabetes in pregnant women.

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Role of mental health in prediction of sexual function in infertile women, Babol, Iran

. Hajar Pasha; . Mahbobeh Faramarzi; . Zahra Basirat; . Farzan Kheirkhah; . Hajar Adib-Rad

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Infertility is one of the main concerns in women’s lives that may lead to psychologicalimbalance and disrupt their sexual relationship. The study was conducted with ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Infertility is one of the main concerns in women’s lives that may lead to psychologicalimbalance and disrupt their sexual relationship. The study was conducted with the aim of evaluatingrole of mental health in prediction of sexual function in infertile women.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This analytic‑descriptive study was conducted in 2015–2016 in424 infertile women referring to Fatemeh Zahraa Infertility and Reproductive Health Center, Babol,Iran. The participants filled out the Female Sexual Function Index (α = 0.72–0.90), General HealthQuestionnaire (GHQ‑28, α = 0.86), and demographics questionnaires. Linear regression used toanalyze the data.RESULTS: The mean of total GHQ was 23.57 ± 12.06. The highest mean of GHQ subscales wassocial dysfunction (8.68 ± 3.69). There was a negative association between GHQ with the overallsexual function of infertile women (r = −0.397, P < 0.0001). The higher mental health disorder wasassociated with lower sexual function. Furthermore, there was an inverse significant associationbetween all the subscales of mental health and sexual function. Based on the multiple linear regressionanalysis, the variables of anxiety and sleep disorder (β = −0.143, P < 0.035), social dysfunction(β= −0.139, P < 0.003), depression symptoms (β = −0.121, P < 0.046), sexual intercourse frequency(β = 0.272, P < 0.0001), and educational level (β = −0.110, P < 0.016) were the significant predictorsof perceived sexual dysfunction after adjusting for other variables. The strongest predictor of theGHQ subscale was anxiety and sleep disorder.CONCLUSIONS: Undesirable conditions of mental health and its adverse effects on sexual functionand also other predictors emphasize the need to develop more effective screening and supportivestrategies with the help of the psychologists.

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Prevalence of peripheral artery disease in patients with infectious diabetic foot ulcer in Imam Reza Hospital in Kermanshah during 2019–2020

. Alireza Janbakhsh; . Masoomeh Abedinfam; . Mohamad Reza Sobhiyeh; . Mansour Rezaie; . Payam Sarie Aslani; . Siavash Vaziri; . Babak Sayad; . Mandana Afsharian; . Fezollah Mansouri

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the main public health troubles diabetic footulcer (DFU) is one of the most important and relatively common causes of hospitalization. This ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the main public health troubles diabetic footulcer (DFU) is one of the most important and relatively common causes of hospitalization. This studyinvestigates the prevalence of peripheral artery disease (PAD) in Imam Reza Hospital of Kermanshahduring 2017–2018.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study is descriptive‑analytical. The study population was196 cases with infectious DFUs admitted to Imam Reza Hospital of Kermanshah during 2019–2020.The presence or absence of PAD was assessed in these cases. The collected data were analyzedby SPSS software (version 18.0).RESULTS: Among 196 patients studied, 120 (61.22%) patients had PAD. The prevalence ofPAD was higher in men than in women and it was more common in Type 2 DM patients than inType 1 DM patients. The majority of ulcers were located on the nonplantar surface of the foot.Moreover, the prevalence of PAD had a significant relationship by increasing the duration ofdiabetes (P = 0.041), history of amputation (P = 0.002), history of diabetic foot (P = 0.006), andperipheral neuropathy (P = 0.005).CONCLUSION: A considerable number of diabetic patients with DFU had PAD. This necessitatesmore intense interventions to manage PAD as a strong risk factor for DFU in diabetics. Neurovascularassessment of diabetic patients and early diagnosis of PAD may be appropriate interventions toprevent development of DFUs. We recommend trial studies to find out the best methods to addressearly detection of PAD in diabetics.

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Age‑standardized mortality rate and predictors of mortality among COVID‑19 patients in Iran

. Rahmatollah Moradzadeh; . Seyed Mohammad Jamalian; . Javad Nazari; . Alireza Kamali; . Bahman Sadeghi; . Zahra Hosseinkhani; . Masoomeh Sofian; . Maryam Zamanian

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: To have a thorough understanding of epidemic surveillance, it is essential to broadenour knowledge of death tolls worldwide. This study aimed to determine the age‑standardized ...  Read More BACKGROUND: To have a thorough understanding of epidemic surveillance, it is essential to broadenour knowledge of death tolls worldwide. This study aimed to determine the age‑standardized mortalityrate (ASMR) and predictors of mortality among coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) patients.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross‑sectional design, all COVID‑19 patients with apositive polymerase chain reaction test in the population covered by Arak University of MedicalSciences (AUMS) were entered to the study. Data collection was conducted by phone interview.The study variables comprised age, sex, coronary heart diseases, diabetes, and some symptomsat admission. The adjusted odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were obtained bylogistic regression. The direct method was applied to calculate ASMR (per 100,000) of COVID‑19.The analysis was applied by STATA software 12.0.RESULTS: A total of 208 cases of COVID‑19 (out of 3050 total infected cases) were dead and2500 cases were recovered. The mean age of dead patients was 70 years. The COVID‑19 fatalityrate in the population equaled 6.8%; in those patients who were 70 years old or more, however, thecase fatality rate was 16.4%. The ASMR of COVID‑19 was 12.9 (CI 95%: 11.2, 14.8). The odds ofCOVID‑19‑related death in the age over 60 were 10.87 (CI 95%: 6.30, 18.75) times than lower 45 yearsold. Moreover, it was observed that COVID‑19 significantly increased the odds of COVID‑19‑relateddeath in diabetes patients (OR = 1.45, CI 95%: 1.02, 2.06, P = 0.036).CONCLUSION: The ASMR of COVID‑19 was relatively higher in males than females. In general, theCOVID‑19 fatality rate was relatively high. We found that older age and diabetes can have impacton the death of COVID‑19, but the headache was found to have a negative association with theCOVID‑19‑related death.

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Learning with lockdown: Utility of whatsApp status‑based multiple‑choice question discussion on COVID‑19 among medical students and teaching faculty

. Sunil Kumar Doddaiah; . Praveen Kulkarni; . Aparna Mohandas; . M. R. Narayana Murthy

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Following the COVID‑19 pandemic, the Government of India announced lockdownfrom March 25, 2020, which included measures such as social distancing, canceling mass gatherings,and ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Following the COVID‑19 pandemic, the Government of India announced lockdownfrom March 25, 2020, which included measures such as social distancing, canceling mass gatherings,and closure of schools and colleges. Since the present generation of students spends a lot of timeon social media, especially WhatsApp, the utility of the same to discuss the various public healthdomains of COVID‑19 through multiple‑choice questions (MCQs) was explored.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This longitudinal study was conducted among 154participants (undergraduates, interns, postgraduates, and teaching faculty) for 3 months. MCQs onCOVID‑19 were disseminated through WhatsApp status of the investigator, and feedback regardingthe same was taken at the end of 3 months. The activity log was maintained, and the information wasdownloaded as a comma‑separated value (CSV) file and exported to MS Excel. Descriptive statistics wereapplied. The location of the participants was entered into the Microsoft Excel sheet and converted intoCSV file. The Geographical data were analyzed in the Quantum Geographical information System (QGIS).RESULTS: Among the 154 study participants, 48% were undergraduates, 10.4% were interns,30.6% were postgraduates, and 11% were teaching faculty. Eighty‑nine percent of the participantsfelt that WhatsApp can be used as a platform for discussing MCQs. 89%, 93%, and 89.6% of theparticipants felt that the exercise improved their analytical skills, helped in self‑directed learning, andimproved collaborative learning, respectively.CONCLUSIONS: Majority of the participants responded that WhatsApp can be used as a platformto discuss MCQs and that the exercise helped in collaborative and self‑directed learning.

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The effect of self‑care self‑efficacy program on life satisfaction of the Iranian elderly

. Mahnaz Shafiei Alavijeh; . Zahra Zandiyeh; . Mahin Moeini

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: With the increase in the elderly population in the world and the consequent increasein diseases and their physical and mental problems, improving self‑care behaviors by ...  Read More BACKGROUND: With the increase in the elderly population in the world and the consequent increasein diseases and their physical and mental problems, improving self‑care behaviors by increasingself‑efficacy in the elderly plays an important role in promoting their health and can increase theirlife satisfaction. This study aimed to investigate the effect of self‑care self‑efficacy program on lifesatisfaction of the elderly referred to selected health centers in Isfahan, Iran, in 2014.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was a quasi‑experimental study with two experimentaland control groups and was performed on 64 elderly people referred to selected health centers inIsfahan. The samples were randomly divided into experimental and control groups, and a self‑careself‑efficacy program was performed on the experimental group. Data collection tools includeddemographic information questionnaire and life satisfaction indexes A questionnaire. Data wereanalyzed using the statistical tests such as Chi‑square, independent t‑test, Mann–Whitney, repeatedmeasures analysis of variance, and Least Significant Difference (LSD) post hoc test.RESULTS: There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of demographiccharacteristics. Before the intervention, the mean score of life satisfaction was not statisticallysignificantly different between the two groups (P = 0.88). However, immediately and 1 month afterthe intervention, the mean score of life satisfaction in the experimental group increased, and thisscore was significantly different between the two groups (P < 0.001).CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study showed that the self‑care self‑efficacy program has beeneffective in increasing the life satisfaction of the elderly. Therefore, using this self‑care self‑efficacyprogram is recommended to promote life satisfaction in the elderly.

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Providing and promoting health‑oriented services by nongovernmental organizations: A qualitative study

. Maryam Saber; . AliAkbar Haghdoost; . Mohammad-Hossein Taghdisi; . Hassan Eftekhar; . Hadise Safinejad; . Ali Mehri

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Benefactors of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are the hidden public healthpromotion systems. These benefactors are the symbol and intermediary of people participation, ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Benefactors of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are the hidden public healthpromotion systems. These benefactors are the symbol and intermediary of people participation, whichis one of the main arms of health promotion and reduction of poverty and injustice in the societies.The present study is aimed to identify the benefactors’ experiences in NGOs in terms of providingand promoting health‑oriented services.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted with a qualitative approach. The totalnumber of participants was 32, which consisted of 25 chief executive officers from active and inactiveorganizations. Active organizations refer to organizations that submitted their 6‑month report at thetime of the investigation and whose operating license was renewed and in operation and sevenofficials of the social deputy of governmental organizations related to NGOs. Data collection wasperformed by using semi‑structured interviews and with purposive sampling and then continued untildata saturation. Furthermore, the content analysis method was used for data analysis. MAXQDAsoftware version 2007 was used to manage quality data.RESULTS: During the data analysis, the following four subcategories were obtained: “high effortin empathy with fellow human beings,” “role of merit in the success of donors,” “creating a platformfor social attention for the client’s spontaneity,” and “respect of the client,” which were the results ofexperience and dimensions. The performance of non‑governmental organizations is in line with theconfrontation and responsibility of non‑governmental organizations with a focus on health‑orientedservices.CONCLUSION: Having benevolent motives, benefactors attempt to provide conditions, in which helpseekers have more chance for living through establishing new, sustainable, and future‑reassuringconditions.

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The effect of positive psychology intervention on quality of life among women with unintended pregnancy

. Zahra Rastad; . Mohsen Golmohammadian; . Amir Jalali; . Bijan Kaboudi; . Marzieh Kaboudi

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that quality of life in women with unintended pregnancy issignificantly less than the ones with wanted gestation. Therefore, this study was aimed to determinethe ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that quality of life in women with unintended pregnancy issignificantly less than the ones with wanted gestation. Therefore, this study was aimed to determinethe effect of intervention based on the positive psychology interventions on women’s QoL withunintended pregnancies in Kermanshah, Iran.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this randomized clinical trial, 40 women with unintended pregnancymet the eligibility criteria and were randomized into experimental (n = 20) or control (n = 20) groups.The Short‑form 36‑item Questionnaire (SF‑36) was administered at pretest, post‑test, and six weeksafter the intervention. Positive psychology interventions were performed in each session oncea week for 10 weeks, with a duration of 90 minutes. The Friedman test and Mann–Whitney U‑testwere used to analyze QoL and all eight domains for within‑group and between‑group comparisons,respectively. The level of confidence was set at 0.05 significant.RESULTS: Distribution of matched variables was not significantly different between the two trialgroups. Over the intervention period, the mean of total scores of QoL and seven dimensions showedsignificant improvement among the experimental group, whereas in the control group, it decreasedsignificantly (P < 0.05). In addition, in the posttest and follow‑up stages, the mean score of sixdimensions of QoL was higher than the control group (P < 0.05).CONCLUSION: According to the results of the present study, unintended pregnancy has side effectson QoL in women. Positive counseling interventions can improve the quality of life in women withunintended pregnancy.

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The effect of face‑to‑face and telephone counseling on the desire for adoption in infertile couples

. Fateme Ahmadi Rezamahaleh; . Talat Khadivzadeh; . Seyed Mohsen Asgharinekah; . Habibollah Esmaeili

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Fertility is always one of the most important functions of the family. Having achild equals growing up and entering the adult world. Adoption is one of the methods that ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Fertility is always one of the most important functions of the family. Having achild equals growing up and entering the adult world. Adoption is one of the methods that can beconsidered to treat infertility. One of the duties of health professionals, especially midwives, is toadvise and educate infertile people, which helps them in a way beyond medical treatment. Therefore,this study was conducted to determine the effect of face‑to‑face and telephone counseling on thedesire for adoption in infertile couples.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study was a two‑group counseling intervention study that wasperformed on 34 infertile couples referred to Mashhad Infertility Center. Infertile couples were randomlyassigned to face‑to‑face and telephone counseling groups. All participants completed the AdoptionAdoption Questionnaire at the beginning and end of the study. Data were analyzed by spss16 software.RESULTS: The mean score of propensity to adopt in the face‑to‑face counseling group 2 weeks afterthe intervention was significantly higher than before the intervention. Furthermore, the mean scoreof desire for adoption in the telephone counseling group increased significantly 2 weeks after theintervention compared to before (P < 0.001). Adoption scores varied in the face‑to‑face counseling groupat 3.15 and in the telephone counseling group at 3.23. There was no statistically significant differencebetween the two groups (P < 0.885). The most common reason for not wanting to adopt was hopefor self‑treatment and having children (70.6% women and 67.6% men). The most common reason foraccepting an adopted child was the strong need to have a child (23.5% in women and 23.5% in men).CONCLUSION: According to the results of this study, counseling can increase people’s awarenessof the conditions of adoption and thus increase the desire of people to accept the adopted child. Forthis reason, considering adoption counseling sessions for infertile couples who have been receivinginfertility treatment for a long time but have not become pregnant can help the couple decide.

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Entry level nursing graduate students’ perception and readiness toward online component of blended learning: A mixed method study

. Narasimman Swaminathan; . Latha Ravichandran; . Sivakumar Ramachandran; . Steve Milanese; . Rajeswari Singaravelu; . Pitchaimani Govindaraj

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Blended learning (BL), the integration of online with face to face teaching, isestablished as a teaching method in higher education. Understanding the learner’s readinesstoward ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Blended learning (BL), the integration of online with face to face teaching, isestablished as a teaching method in higher education. Understanding the learner’s readinesstoward online component of BL is important in designing and delivering BL. Nursing students requireproficiency in interpersonal relationship and social interaction apart from knowledge and skills. BLmay provide an opportunity to acquire the professional skills better than the traditional face to facesessions. The objectives of this study were to identify the nursing student’s readiness toward BLand perceptions about the online learning component of BL.MATERIALS AND METHODS: First‑ and second‑year entry level graduate nursing students of SriRamachandra Institute of Higher Education, Chennai, India, were the participants of the study. Thisstudy used a mixed method approach. An online questionnaire, developed based on the literatureand expert consensus, was used in the first phase. A focus group discussion (FGD) with ten randomparticipants of the survey was conducted to understand the perceptions and readiness to adopt the onlinecomponent of BL. The present study was conducted from December 2019 to January 2020. Surveyresults were analyzed through descriptively. Content analysis was carried to summarize FGD results.RESULTS: A total 158 students of entry level nursing graduate programme participated in the survey.53.8% of felt BL will have positive effect on their learning and 70% of the respondents were readyto adopt BL. The FGD identified two themes: (I) Readiness to adopt online learning as a componentof BL and (II) perceived barriers and challenges in adopting online contents.CONCLUSION: Entry level nursing graduate students had a positive perception about the onlinecomponents. Majority of them are confident in accessing the online contents. Willingness to learnthrough online, previous experience with online learning, and perceived advantages of onlinecomponent might influence the learner’s readiness. Availability of internet and absence of teacherswere perceived as the barriers to online learning by the participants.

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COVID‑19 ‑ Opportunity for online education: Do not forget the ethical considerations in teaching learners

. Fahimeh Rashidi Fakari; . Sepideh Hajian

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-2

Abstract

    Read More

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• Letter to Editor
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Ottawa prenatal educator e‑survey: Experiences and perceptions of public health nurses and allied childbirth educators

. Rowan M. Terrell; . Nura L. Soucy; . Rebecca A. Chedid; . Karen P. Phillips

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Prenatal education provides opportunities for health promotion of healthy behaviorsand risk reduction. Quality and coherence with prenatal health promotion best practices ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Prenatal education provides opportunities for health promotion of healthy behaviorsand risk reduction. Quality and coherence with prenatal health promotion best practices depend onan individual class instructor. The objective of our study was to document the experiences, practices,and perceptions of our diverse Ottawa, Canada community of prenatal educators.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this quantitative, mixed methods e‑survey conducted in Ottawa,Canada, prenatal educators were asked to describe their prenatal class settings, delivery formats,content, perceptions of pregnant women, and recommendations. Data were analyzed by descriptivestatistics and thematic content analysis.RESULTS: Respondents included public health nurses and a diverse group of “allied childbirtheducators” (ACE). Topics related to pregnancy, labor, and postpartum issues were well addressed;however, established and emerging risks to pregnancy were omitted. Nurses were more likely todiscuss lifestyle risks to pregnancy and general prenatal health promotion, whereas ACE respondentsemphasized informed consent and individualized counseling. Women marginalized by social exclusionincluding Indigenous women, immigrants, and women with disabilities were perceived as missingfrom prenatal educational settings.CONCLUSIONS: Heterogeneity of prenatal education provides opportunities for collaboration;however, established and emerging risk factors to pregnancy are neglected topics. Addressing theneeds of diverse communities of pregnant women requires timely, evidence‑based, inclusive, andculturally safe delivery of prenatal health promotion.

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The impact of service quality provided by health‑care centers and physicians on patient satisfaction

. Roy Rillera Marzo; . Sudip Bhattacharya; . Noorhaida Binti Ujang; . Thein Win Naing; . Anita Ting Huong Fei; . Cheong Kah Chun; . Cheryl Pock Xue Ting; . Pavithra A/P Rajah; . Kavitra A/P Shanmuganathan

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-5

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Patient satisfaction is a comprehensive measurement of patients’ happiness withthe level of health care delivered to them both inside and outside the physician’s ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Patient satisfaction is a comprehensive measurement of patients’ happiness withthe level of health care delivered to them both inside and outside the physician’s office. It is commonlyused as an indicator to assess the health‑care quality and affects a wide range of components relatedto the provision of health services such as ease of access, medical malpractice, and clinical outcomes.The study aimed to analyze patients’ satisfaction with the quality of health care they received atthe outpatient department of Klinik Kesihatan Maharani Muar Healthcare Facility (KMMHF), Johor.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross‑sectional study was conducted between August andDecember 2019 period. Demographic information and information on patients’ feelings about theirphysicians, treatment, and health facilities provided were collected from 407 consented patients in asimple random sampling survey using a researcher‑made, an adapted Medical Interview Satisfaction,questionnaire which was pilot tested before administration to the patients. Data were analyzed withSPSS version 23. Descriptive statistics and correlational and group comparison analyses were utilized.RESULTS: Of the 407 patients studied for physician–patient satisfaction, the overall mean of all therespondents responding was 4.089 ± 0.5, which was ranked the highest among the three objectives.The effectiveness of treatment came as the second highest with the overall mean of 4.088 ± 0.5.Finally, the overall health‑care facilities had the lowest overall mean of 4.077 ± 0.5 among the three.CONCLUSION: Most patients who visited KMMHF were mostly satisfied with the outcomes ofphysician–patient interaction in the clinic.

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Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice towards COVID-19 among paramedical staff in Central India: A cross-sectional, online survey

. Chaitali Ashish Chindhalore; . Ganesh Natthuji Dakhale; . Amrita Umathe

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Knowledge of a disease can influence paramedic’s attitudes and practices, andincorrect attitudes and practices directly increase the risk of infection. Understanding ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Knowledge of a disease can influence paramedic’s attitudes and practices, andincorrect attitudes and practices directly increase the risk of infection. Understanding paramedic’sknowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) and possible risk factors helps to predict the outcomesof planned behavior. To assess KAP regarding COVID‑19 through Google form among paramedicalstaff at tertiary care teaching institutes of central India.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional, multicentric, questionnaire‑based study wasconducted from May 2020 to August 2020 among 230 paramedical staff from two tertiary careteaching institutes through Google form. Data were analyzed by Chi‑square test and parametric testusing GraphPad prism software version 5.0.RESULTS: All participants had knowledge about symptomatology of COVID‑19. However, significantlymore participants in nursing cadre know about definition of close contact. The mean knowledgescore was 4.84 ± 0.6. The mean score for attitude was 4.48 ± 0.83. Overall, 54.78% of paramedicalstaff follow correct prevention strategies. Of them, significantly more nursing staff correctly practiceinfection control measures upon arrival of COVID‑19 patients (P = 0.033). There was a significantdifference among both groups regarding wearing of appropriate personal protective equipment whiletransporting/accompanying patients who are confirmed with COVID 19 (P = 0.009). The overall scorefor practice is 3.97 ± 1.03. The practice score was significantly better in nursing cadre as comparedto nonnursing cadre (P = 0.038).CONCLUSION: Majority of the participants had good knowledge and positive attitude. Nursing cadrefollows better preventive practices as compared to nonnursing cadre while performing COVID‑relatedduties. Considering these facts, dodges responsible for poor practices should be identified andresolved so that India will be able to conquest the battle against the disease.

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Development of leading indicators for the assessment of occupational health performance using Reason’s Swiss cheese model

. Ali Karimi; . Milad Abbasi; . Mojtaba Zokaei; . Mohsen Falahati

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The Swiss cheese model of accident causation is a model used in risk analysisand risk management, including aviation safety, engineering, healthcare, and emergency serviceorganizations, ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The Swiss cheese model of accident causation is a model used in risk analysisand risk management, including aviation safety, engineering, healthcare, and emergency serviceorganizations, and as the principle behind layered security, as used in computer security and defensein‑depth. This study aimed to develop and weight the occupational health leading indicators usingthe Swiss cheese model.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study was a descriptive, cross‑sectional study;occupational health performance assessment indicators were classified into five main groups ofchemical, physical, ergonomic, psychosocial, and biological harmful agents. In addition, potentialhazards and their prevention methods were identified using the Swiss cheese model. The leadingperformance measurement indicators (n = 64) were developed based on preventive methods andwere weighted and rated by fuzzy analytic hierarchy process.RESULTS: Thirty‑six out of 64 indicators were related to the management measures, 25 indicatorswere related to exposure to harmful occupational agents, and the remaining indicators wereoccupational‑related illnesses and diseases rate. Considering the importance and frequency ofindicators, psychological agents were the most important indicators (40%) and physical agents hadthe greatest frequency (59%).CONCLUSIONS: Process of indicators’ development has demonstrated that the major occupationalhealth prevention measures in the oil and gas industry are concentrated on physical, psychological,and chemical agents, respectively. Thus, to provide protection for employees against occupationaldiseases and improve health performance indicators, paying special attention to mentioned agentsis essential in the oil and gas industry.

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Treatment of opium addiction in persian medicine: A review study

. Mohadese Kamali; . Hoda Kamali; . Mohammadmahdi Doustmohammadi; . Hojjat Sheikhbardsiri; . Masoud Moghadari

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-9

Abstract

  Drug abuse is one of the most important threats to human beings today, leading to disability andeven early death. In the past, opium had only therapeutic uses, but now, drug addiction ...  Read More Drug abuse is one of the most important threats to human beings today, leading to disability andeven early death. In the past, opium had only therapeutic uses, but now, drug addiction is one of themajor public health problems in Iran. Opium and its derivatives are the most commonly used illicitdrugs in this country. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the treatment strategies ofopium addiction from the perspective of Persian medicine. In this narrative review, the search wasconducted using appropriate keywords in the authoritative books of Persian medicine documentationsof databases of PubMed, Google Scholar, PsycINFO, American Academy of Medical Sciences, UnitedNations Office on Drugs and Crimes with keywords of opioid and opium since 2000 AD. In Persianmedicine books, “Afioon” means poppy plant (Papaver somniferum), which is called opium in Englishand “Theriac” in Persian. To quit, they should be gradually reduced and replaced with appropriatespices such as henbane (Hyoscyamus niger) seeds or mandrake (Mandragora officinarum) fruit orroot or poppy (P. somniferum) seeds or poppy shell or Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) seeds, or castortestis or nutmeg (Myristans fragrans) fruit or ajwain (Trachyspermum copticum) seeds or bakedbread. Opioid quit should be gradual and delayed in time of consumption and gradual reduction ofopium levels, and bodies that have become lean for a long time will gradually recover with adequatenutrition over time.

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Utilizing social media platforms to promote mental health awareness and help seeking in underserved communities during the COVID‑19 pandemic

. Dana Alonzo; . Marciana Popescu

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-10

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 virus has resulted in significant psychological distress for manyindividuals, particularly, those in underserved communities. Social media have the potential ...  Read More BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 virus has resulted in significant psychological distress for manyindividuals, particularly, those in underserved communities. Social media have the potential to beone of the most effective tools for mental health campaigns, reaching wide audiences in the shortestamount of time. In this paper, the potential of harnessing social media platforms to address mentalhealth needs in underserved populations is presented. In addition, description of the preliminaryimplementation of a social media mental health campaign, the 5 × 5 campaign, is describedas an example of the feasibility and benefits of such efforts. Key implications gleaned from theimplementation process are also presented.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Utilizing a participatory approach, the 5 × 5 campaign aimed toimprove recognition of mental health symptoms, promote help seeking, and provide immediatestrategies for self‑care for individuals experiencing psychological distress related to the COVID‑19pandemic in low‑income, high‑risk communities in and around Guatemala City. Campaign contentwas promoted on Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp from April 2020 to June 2020.RESULTS: Preliminary analysis of the 5 × 5 campaign demonstrated feasibility and substantialimpact with over 84,000 individuals reached by the campaigns through initial messaging and shares.CONCLUSION: The 5 × 5 highlights the feasibility of using social media campaigns for mental healthpromotion and key factors that should be incorporated in the planning of social media mental healthcampaigns aimed at promoting awareness, engaging underserved communities, and encouraginghelp seeking.

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Impact of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic on classroom teaching: Challenges of online classes and solutions

. Madan Mohan Gupta

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-4

Abstract

  Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discoveredcoronavirus and the WHO declared it a pandemic, and due to the high risk, the most governmentthroughout ...  Read More Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discoveredcoronavirus and the WHO declared it a pandemic, and due to the high risk, the most governmentthroughout the world have temporarily closed schools, colleges, and universities. The impact of thisCOVID‑19 has been hit the education system worldwide, and according to the UNESCO, as of March23, 2020, around some 1.3 billion learners worldwide were not able to attend educational institutionsso to continue the education, most of the universities are providing teaching through online mode,but there are challenges of technological issue, time management, and adaptability.

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• Reviewers
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Factors affecting emergency evacuation of Iranian hospitals in fire: A qualitative study

. Ali Sahebi; . Katayoun Jahangiri; . Ahmad Alibabaei; . Davoud Khorasani‑Zavareh

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Fire is one of the most important threatening factors for hospitals and needs specialattention. The present study was conducted to explain the factors affecting hospital ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Fire is one of the most important threatening factors for hospitals and needs specialattention. The present study was conducted to explain the factors affecting hospital emergencyevacuation following fire based on hospital administrators’ experiences.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a qualitative study conducted employing the content analysisapproach. Participants included 22 hospital administrators in Tehran, Lorestan, Kurdistan, and Ilamprovinces. The participants were purposefully selected and included until reaching principle of datasaturation. Data were collected through in‑depth semi‑structured interviews from November 2019to August 2020 and analyzed by the content analysis method.RESULTS: Factors affecting hospital emergency evacuation during fire were categorized into fivemain categories and 17 subcategories including response to incident (five subcategories of fire nature,emergency evacuation, service provision, coordination and communication; and collaboration andcompanionship), human factors (two subcategories of individual characteristics and competencies),hospital preparedness (three subcategories of planning, safety and security; and informationmanagement system), environmental factors (two subcategories of hospital design and infrastructure;and weather condition), and finally ethical values (five subcategories of human dignity, trust, altruism,responsibility and accountability; and empathy).CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicated that during fire in Iranian hospitals, several factorsin addition to available standard guidelines affect the emergency evacuation process that need tobe considered. Hospital emergency evacuation during fire is a complex process and necessitates afull and high‑level hospital preparedness, so using the results of this study can be used to developand practice evacuation plans and improve the hospital preparedness.

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Evaluation and comparison of the dermatology program for medical students at the University of Chile with other national and foreign universities

. Camilo Rojas; . Fernando Valenzuela; . Hugo Folch

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The National Examination of Knowledge in Medicine establishes the knowledgeprofile  (PdC) a physician must possess to practice public medicine in Chile. However, no ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The National Examination of Knowledge in Medicine establishes the knowledgeprofile  (PdC) a physician must possess to practice public medicine in Chile. However, no studyhas evaluated the perception of dermatology training regarding the acquisition of the minimumcompetencies required. This study described and compared the impressions of the dermatologytraining received by the University of Chile (UCh) graduates with graduates from other national andinternational faculties of medicine.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross‑sectional study, based on a single survey model,applied via E‑mail to registered physicians in an online database, with emphasis on UCh medicinegraduates, from the generations 2012 to 2016. The data were collected anonymously, tabulated,and analyzed in MINITAB.RESULTS: From 908 UCh graduates, 141 surveys were answered (15.5%). Nine of 10 physiciansconsidered “important” to obtain knowledge in dermatology. About 68.8% found the informationthey received was adequate. When comparing UCh graduates with other Chilean universities,UCh graduates had a slightly better impression of their training. When comparing Chilean versusforeign graduates, the latter presented a better perception of their preparation in cutaneouspathology.CONCLUSION: UCh graduates were satisfied with their dermatological training at the undergraduatelevel and felt better prepared than colleagues from other Chilean universities when facing cutaneouspathologies.

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Effectiveness of flipped classroom model in teaching histology for first‑year MBBS students based on competency‑based blended learning: An interventional study

. Sharmila Aristotle; . Sundarapandian Subramanian; . Saikarthik Jayakumar

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: With recent changes in the curriculum of bachelor of medicine and bachelor ofsurgery  (MBBS) course to meet the global trends and to fulfill the standards expected ...  Read More BACKGROUND: With recent changes in the curriculum of bachelor of medicine and bachelor ofsurgery  (MBBS) course to meet the global trends and to fulfill the standards expected from anIndian medical graduate, introduction of newer teaching methodologies becomes mandatory. Theusage of flipped classroom (FCR) in medical education has always been rewarding. This study wasto evaluate the effectiveness of FCR as a teaching method in comparison with traditional lecturesin histology sessions in Sri Ramaswamy Memorial (SRM) Medical College Hospital and ResearchCentre, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This interventional study was conducted among the 1st year MBBSstudents in SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre for a period of 1 year (2018–2019academic year). The histology sessions were taught using both traditional lectures and FCRmethodology. Pre‑  and posttests were conducted for each traditional and FCR session with tenmultiple‑choice questions pertaining to that topic. Students’ performance was assessed by pairedt‑test (for pre‑ and posttest comparisons) and independent t‑test (for traditional and FCR posttestmark comparison) using SPSS software version 26. A feedback survey based on Likert scale wasalso conducted on the students and was analyzed. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.RESULTS: Posttest marks had statistically significantly improved when compared to pretestmarks (P  <  0.0001) in both traditional and FCR teaching methods. Comparison of posttestmarks showed statistically significantly higher marks in FCR when compared to traditionalteaching (P < 0.0001). Similarly, students’ feedback survey showed that FCR benefitted the studentsin achieving the competency required.CONCLUSION: FCR methodology of teaching histology had a very impressive outcome and thestudents’ perception was very positive.

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Self‑care practices and factors influencing self‑care among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in a rural health center in South India

. Vanitha Durai; . V. Samya; . G. V. Akila; . Vanishree Shriraam; . Aliya Jasmine; . Anitha Rani Muthuthandavan; . T. Gayathri; . Shriraam Mahadevan

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Self-care for diabetes is very important in preventing complications of diabetesand also improving quality of life. This study aims to find the various self‑care practices ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Self-care for diabetes is very important in preventing complications of diabetesand also improving quality of life. This study aims to find the various self‑care practices of type 2diabetes patients who are being treated at a rural health center of a medical college and the factorsinfluencing self‑care.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a hospital‑based cross‑sectional study. Type 2 diabetespatients registered and receiving treatment from the noncommunicable disease clinic of a rural healthcenter were administered a pretested questionnaire, developed based on different diabetes self-carequestionnaires making changes as appropriate and including most aspects of self-care practices. Theproportion of compliant was then cross-tabulated with background characteristics and their glycatedhemoglobin (HbA1c) levels. SPSS version 16.0 was used for the analysis.RESULTS: Among 390 patients with a mean age 56 years, 25.5% adhered to at least four dietarymodifications, 46% were physically active, and 57% had good compliance to drugs; hypoglycemiaprevention practices ranged from 21% to 51%. Except for avoiding barefoot walking (90%), otherfoot‑care practices were followed by only a quarter of them. Among ever users, 69.2%, 64.3%, and29.4% have quit smoking, alcohol, and tobacco use, respectively. Adherence to dietary modificationsand drug compliance were associated with a lower HbA1c level of ≤7 g% (P < 0.05).CONCLUSION: In this study, the compliance to physical activity or medications is much betterthan dietary changes and foot-care practices. Focused education programs and monitoring duringfollow-up visits will improve self-care in the less adhered to aspects. Those who are adherent todietary modifications and drugs have better glycemic control.

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Student support system for medical undergraduates: A qualitative exploration of stakeholder perspectives

. Mourouguessine Vimal; . Amol Rambhau Dongre; . Anandabaskar Nishanthi; . Rajendrakumar Nivaratirao Kagne.

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-10

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The demands and learning challenges in medical schools are not efficientlyovercome by all learners. Despite the gravity of the problem, there is a dearth of studies to identify,define, ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The demands and learning challenges in medical schools are not efficientlyovercome by all learners. Despite the gravity of the problem, there is a dearth of studies to identify,define, and address the needs of learners. Thus, the present study was designed to do a situationalanalysis to identify and define the problems of learners and to develop a model for student supportsystem in our institution.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A phenomenological type of qualitative research was undertaken.One‑to‑one in‑depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted, 10 each among undergraduate medicalstudents, faculties and parents (n = 30) to understand the problems of students and their suggestedsolutions from each one’s perspective. The interviews were audio‑recorded, transcribed verbatim,and manual thematic analyses were performed.RESULTS: Manual thematic analysis of the transcripts yielded 16 subcategories and 7 categories.The various categories that emerged are (1) curriculum related; (2) interpersonal adjustmentproblems; (3) personal issues and family problems; (4) cognitive learning disabilities; (5) poororganizational skills; (6) students’ lack of motivation; and (7) miscellaneous. Based on the problemsand their suggested solutions, a model for the essential components of a student support system forour college was developed. It outlines the principal roles of four key stakeholders, namely students,faculties, parents, and college administration.CONCLUSION: It has been found that students face various academic problems, personal,interpersonal and family level issues. We developed the support system model suitable for ourcontext. In future, it may be implemented and evaluated to check if it achieves the desired purpose.

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Relationship between physical activity, academic achievement, gender, and learning styles in students of a Latin American Dental School: A cross‑sectional study

. Carlos Martín Ardila; . Ángela María Gómez‑Restrepo

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Little is known about the inference that physical activity (PA) may have on academicperformance and learning styles of Latin American dental students.MATERIALS AND METHODS: ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Little is known about the inference that physical activity (PA) may have on academicperformance and learning styles of Latin American dental students.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross‑sectional study, an administrative dataset and a voluntaryuniversity characterization provided information about PA and academic performance. Moreover, 218dental students of the University of Antioquia in Colombia completed a structured questionnaire toidentify their learning styles. To analyze the information obtained a Pearson correlation, and logisticand linear regression models were implemented.RESULTS: A total of 131 (60%) students informed being physically active (PA group), and 87 (40%)did not report PA (non‑PA group). The results showed a high‑grade point average (GPA) in thePA group (P = 0.01). The PA group showed a preference for the theorist and pragmatist learningstyles with statistically significant differences between the groups (P = 0.004 and P < 0.0001,respectively). It was also observed a statistically significant Pearson positive correlation between thetheorist style and higher GPA (r = 0.15; P = 0.04). The multivariate regression model showed thatPA protects against lower means of GPA (odds ratio = 0.3; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.09–0.7,P = 0.01). Furthermore, the adjusted linear regression models also showed that PA protects againstlower means of the theorist (β= −0.15; 95% CI: −0.02 to − 0.002, P = 0.002) and pragmatist styles(β= −0.18; 95% CI: −0.03 to − 0.006, P = 0.0006). Interestingly, men were statistically significant inall multivariable models.DISCUSSION: This study suggests that PA is associated with higher academic performance andthe theorist and pragmatist styles. Male students were also more physically active; therefore, it isrelevant to establish strategies to stimulate physical activities in dental students, especially in women,including extracurricular activities.

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Development, validation, and feasibility of a school‑based short duration integrated classroom yoga module: A pilot study design

. Atul Sinha; . Sony Kumari; . Mollika Ganguly

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-12

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The practice of yoga is proven to have physical, cognitive and emotional benefitsfor school children. Despite this many schools do not include yoga in their daily schedule. ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The practice of yoga is proven to have physical, cognitive and emotional benefitsfor school children. Despite this many schools do not include yoga in their daily schedule. Thereasons cited are lack of time and resources. To overcome these problems the present study aimedto develop and validate a short duration Integrated classroom yoga module. The design guidelineswere that it should be possible to practice in the classroom environment and that it could be led bythe class teacher. In this way the module would overcome the problem of both time and resource.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study had two main  phases. In the first phase, selected ICYMpractices based on the literature review were validated by 21 subject matter experts using Lawhse’scontent validity ratio (CVR) formula. In the second phase, a pilot study using a paired sample prepostmeasurement design was carried out on 49 high school children. The study was conducted in June2019. The intervention period was 1 month, and the test variables were physical fitness, cognitiveperformance, self‑esteem, emotional well‑being, and personality characteristic. Paired sample t‑test wasthe analysis tool and the software used was the Statistical Package for the Social Science version 26.RESULTS: In the Lawshe’s CVR analysis, 17 out of the 24 practices tested were rated by expertsas essential as was the overall module (CVR score ≥0.429). In the pilot study, there were significantdifferences in the postmean scores compared to premean scores, for all the 4 EUROFIT physicalfitness testing battery tests (P < 0.02), all the three scores of the Stroop  color‑word namingtask (P < 0.001) and the Rosenberg self‑esteem scale (P < 0.008).CONCLUSION: ICYM was validated and found feasible by the present  study. It was found to have astatistically significant impact on physical fitness, cognitive performance, and self‑esteem variables.However, a randomized control trial with a longer intervention period is needed to strengthen thepresent study.

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An analysis of the challenges in recruiting clinical teachers in Iranian medical universities: A qualitative analysis

. Akram Sadeghian; . Shahram Tofighi; . Nikoo Yamani; . Tahereh Changiz

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Employing appropriate and deserving staff is goal of human resourcemanagement (HRM). A group of staff at medical science universities are clinical teachers. Consideringthe ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Employing appropriate and deserving staff is goal of human resourcemanagement (HRM). A group of staff at medical science universities are clinical teachers. Consideringthe position and importance of these peoples, this study addresses the challenges of recruitingclinical teachers.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a qualitative study of the conventional content analysis donein Isfahan medical university in 2018. The participants were selected through intensity sampling ofpurposive sampling method, and data were obtained through semi‑structured interviews conductedto survey 23 experts and clinical faculty members concerning the challenges involved in employingclinical teachers. Data were analyzed using conventional content analysis method and OneNote 2013.RESULTS: Two main categories and ten subcategories were classified as follows: HRM inadequacyin educational departments with six subscales such as indefiniteness of the workforce status for HRmanagers, reluctance of educational departments to increase human resources, nonproportionalityof the teacher–student ratio, recruitment of faculty based on the needs in the treatment sector,weakness of the infrastructure to use nonfaculty teachers, and reduced public interest in employmentas a faculty and weakness of the selection process with four subscales based on data analysis suchas undesirable manner of selection, recruitment based on the score given by the national board ofmedical examiners, purpose‑based calls to recruit predefined individuals, and personal and emotionalissues, rather than managerial standards, governing cooperation with teachers.CONCLUSION: Recruitment process is part of HRM tasks. Employment system in a medicalsciences university must be considered to improve the clinical faculty recruitment. HRM inadequacyin educational departments and weakness of the selection process are challenges that affect theemployment system. According to these findings, it is necessary to review the regulations and tasksof HRM in medical sciences universities.

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Comparing the effect of traditional and role‑play training methods on nursing students’ performance and satisfaction in the principles of patient education course

. Soleiman Ahmady; . Sara Shahbazi; . Nasrin Khajeali

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-5

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Education is considered as one of the most important well‑known roles of nurses,which is based on the patients’ needs and awareness level. Thus, training the skill ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Education is considered as one of the most important well‑known roles of nurses,which is based on the patients’ needs and awareness level. Thus, training the skill to nursing studentsis highly prioritized. The present study aimed to compare traditional and role‑play training methodson nursing students’ performance and satisfaction in the principles of patient education course.Materials and Methods: The present quasi‑empirical study was conducted in 2019 among 36fourth‑semester nursing students at the School of Nursing in Borujen branch. In this regard, thestudents were randomly divided into experimental (n = 18) and control (n = 18) groups and trainedthrough role‑play and traditional methods, respectively. The data were collected using demographicquestionnaire, training method satisfaction form, and student performance evaluation checklist (30items), among which the two last ones were researcher made. Then, data were analyzed by SPSSsoftware version 19 and using descriptive and analytical statistical tests such as Chi‑square andMann–Whitney.RESULTS: The results demonstrated a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) between the meanscore of students’ satisfaction with teaching method in the control (17.15 ± 0.89) and experimentalgroups (19.03 ± 1.49), as well as between that of their performance in the control and experimentalgroups (115.31 ± 2.07 and 118.28 ± 3.59, respectively).CONCLUSION: Based on the results, role‑play training method affected nursing students’performance in the principles of patient education course higher. Thus, using the method in trainingstudents and in‑service training for nursing personnel is recommended to education planners andnursing education authorities for improving the skill.

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The effect of self‑management intervention program on the lifestyle of postmyocardial infarction patients

. Roya Amini; . Maryam Rajabi; . Hiva Azami; . Alireza Soltanian

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Most patients with myocardial infarction (MI) suffer from one or more risk factorssuch as obesity and overweight, unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity (PA), and high ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Most patients with myocardial infarction (MI) suffer from one or more risk factorssuch as obesity and overweight, unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity (PA), and high blood pressure.Individual control of these risk factors by lifestyle modification raises the probability of survival inthese patients; hence, we used a self‑management intervention to assess its effect on the lifestyleof post‑MI patients.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This quasi‑experimental study was conducted on 92 hospitalized MIpatients in Hamadan province in 2016. Convenience sampling method was used for selecting theparticipants. The patients were selected and assigned to experimental and control groups. The mainparameters (diet, blood pressure, waist circumference, and body mass index [BMI]) were measuredat the baseline and 8 weeks after discharge. Domestic PA was the only parameter measured 8 weeksafter their discharge. A self‑management intervention was adopted for the experimental group. Thedata were analyzed using paired and independent‑sample t‑tests with SPSS software version 16.RESULTS: The comparison of the scores obtained for diet, blood pressure, waist circumference,and BMI in post‑MI patients revealed no statistically significant difference between the two groupsat the beginning of the study (P > 0.05). Following the intervention, the experimental group had asignificantly higher mean score for diet and domestic PA (walking program from 1st week to 8 weeks),compared to the control group (P < 0.001); however, the intervention had no significant effect onBMI, waist circumference, and systolic and diastolic pressure (P > 0.05).CONCLUSION: The findings indicated that the program had an impact on some risk factors. Therefore,it is recommended to use self‑management support in MI patients during the discharge process toimprove their lifestyle.

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Exploring the challenges of educational accreditation of teaching hospitals and providing the solutions

. Shoaleh Bigdeli; . Seyed Kamran Soltani Arabshahi; . Zohreh Sohrabi; . Atefeh Zabihi Zazoly

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: In the recent years, the accreditation of educational institutions and hospitals hasattracted a lot of attention in different countries to ensure the quality of medical ...  Read More BACKGROUND: In the recent years, the accreditation of educational institutions and hospitals hasattracted a lot of attention in different countries to ensure the quality of medical education. In thisregard, examining the experiences of different countries will help to improve the world and localstandards. This study was an attempt to explore the lived experiences of senior managers aboutthe educational accreditation challenges and appropriate strategies to overcome these challenges.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The authors used a phenomenological approach to explore the livedexperiences of the senior managers about educational accreditation of teaching hospitals affiliatedto Iran University of Medical Sciences. Semi‑structured interviews were conducted to reach datasaturation. For this purpose, three semi‑structured face‑to‑face interviews and six electronic interviewswere conducted. Data were analyzed using the Colaizzi method.RESULTS: Data analysis showed that the most important challenges of educational accreditationof teaching hospitals were related to standards and criteria, executive policies of accreditation, andeducational, attitudinal, and financial infrastructures. The strategies expressed by the participantswere categorized into four themes including reviewing and revising standards and criteria, planningfor education, providing human and financial resources, and modifying the executive structure ofaccreditation.CONCLUSIONS: In order to improve the quality of educational accreditation programs, it is necessaryto identify and find a solution for the existing challenges by experiential support of the seniormanagers of teaching hospitals and the other stakeholders (e.g., faculty members and students).It also provides an opportunity for educational policy‑makers to improve the hospital’s educationalaccreditation program.

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Social barriers as a challenge in seeking mental health among Saudi Arabians

. Nawal A. Alissa

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: To extend our knowledge of social barriers in relation to mental health, the presentstudy was conducted to investigate the impact of social barriers on mental health help‑seeking ...  Read More BACKGROUND: To extend our knowledge of social barriers in relation to mental health, the presentstudy was conducted to investigate the impact of social barriers on mental health help‑seeking amongSaudi Arabians aged 18 years and above.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross‑sectional study was carried out on 1632 participants in2018 during the months of October and November. The participants completed self‑administeredonline surveys about the demographic characteristics, social barriers, and knowledge and attitudesabout mental health.RESULTS: The majority of the participants agreed that social barriers could prevent them fromseeking mental health help. Stigma was chosen as the most common social barrier among theparticipants (76.3%), followed by culture (61.5%) and negative perceptions (56.2%).CONCLUSION: Social barriers are a challenge in seeking mental health. Increasing public awarenessof available services and resources as well as developing programs to fight stigmatization should beinitiated to create more positive attitudes toward people with mental illness and promote holistic well‑being.

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Severity of illness affecting the length of stay and outcomes in patients admitted to intensive care units, Iran, 2019

. Mohammad Setareh; . Negin Masoudi Alavi; . Fatemeh Atoof

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Length of stay (LOS) and patients’ outcome are two important indicators in intensivecare units (ICUs). The severity of illness influences these variables and could ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Length of stay (LOS) and patients’ outcome are two important indicators in intensivecare units (ICUs). The severity of illness influences these variables and could have a predictive valuein clinical settings. The impact of severity of illness on the LOS and outcomes in patients admittedto ICUs was investigated in a selected hospital in Iran in 2019.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This research was a descriptive longitudinal study. Data wereprospectively collected on 150 patients. The sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score, LOS,and demographic variables of the patients were recorded. Abbreviated mental test and Barthel indexmeasuring activities of daily living questionnaires were completed at the time of the discharge fromICU and 1 month later to show the patient outcomes. Data analysis was performed using Chi‑squaretest, t‑test, analysis of variance, Pearson’s correlation, and linear and ordinal logistic regression withSPSS software version 16.RESULTS: The mean of LOS was 11.21 ± 10.54 days. 24.7% of the patients were discharged fromICUs with optimal recovery, 49.3% with poor recovery, and 26% died in ICUs. One month afterdischarge, 67.6% of patients had optimal recovery, 24.3% had poor recovery, and 8.1% died. TheSOFA score had a significant relation with LOS and patient outcomes in discharge and 1 month later.All the patients with SOFA score <5 survived, and all the patients with SOFA score more than 12 died.CONCLUSIONS: The severity of illness had a significant relation with LOS and patient outcomes inthe time of the discharge from ICU and 1 month later. It seems that the initial SOFA score of 12 andhigher can be suggested as a cutoff point for poor prognosis in ICU patients.

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Evaluation of nutritional adjustment program on quality of life in children with chronic liver disease

. Seyed Ali Jafari; . Aramesh Rezaeian; . Zahra Namjou; . Majid Ghayour-Mobarhan; . Zahra ghaneifar

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Chronic liver disease is associated with decreased quality of life. The quality of lifeof children with chronic liver disease is related to their quality of life. Malnutrition ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Chronic liver disease is associated with decreased quality of life. The quality of lifeof children with chronic liver disease is related to their quality of life. Malnutrition is associated withdeath from cirrhosis, development of complications, and health‑related quality of life in people withliver disease. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the effect of nutritional adjustmentprogram on quality of life in children with chronic liver disease.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This clinical trial study was performed on children with chronic liverdisease referred to the nutrition clinic of Ghaem Educational‑Research Center in Mashhad in 2015.In this study, 77 children with chronic liver disease were randomly divided into two groups. Beforeand after the intervention, patients’ quality of life was assessed with the PedsQL™ 4.0 generic corescale questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using SPSS16 software.RESULTS: In the postintervention stage, the mean total score of quality of life in the experimentalgroup was 1965.0 ± 270.9 and in the control group was 1522.5 ± 321.3 (P < 0.001). The differencein quality of life score of physical, social, and school performance in the two groups was significant.CONCLUSION: According to the results of this study, it seems that interventions that can improvethe quality of life of children with chronic liver disease can be an important step in advancing thesepeople toward a healthy and quality life. As a result, it is possible to take steps to improve the qualityof life of patients by encouraging children with liver disease and providing information about diet.

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The effect of sexual health education program on sexual function and attitude in women at reproductive age in Iran

. Nazanin Rezaei; . Safoura Taheri; . Zahra Tavalaee; . Sedighe Rezaie; . Arman Azadi

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Female sexual dysfunction is a common and often distressing public health problem.This study aimed to determine the effect of the sexual health program on female sexual ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Female sexual dysfunction is a common and often distressing public health problem.This study aimed to determine the effect of the sexual health program on female sexual function andattitude in reproductive age in the west of Iran.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a field trial study. A total of 103 women attending healthcenters were assigned into two groups; an experiment and a control group. Data collection tool involvedsociodemographic characteristics questionnaire, sexual female attitude questionnaire, and the FemaleSexual Function Index (FSFI), which was completed by participants before and after the implementationof a sexual health education program. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 22.RESULTS: The results revealed that after the intervention, female sexual function in the experimentgroup based on the FSFI tool was significantly improved (P < 0.01) in the domains of desire, arousal,orgasm, satisfaction, pain, and the total score compared with the control group. Besides, there wasno significant difference between posttest mean score of sexual attitude in the experiment group andcontrol group (P > 0.05). However, a significant difference was found in the mean score of sexualattitudes in the experimental group before and after the intervention (P = 0.004).CONCLUSION: The findings showed that sexual health program was effective in improving women’ssexual function and attitude in the experiment group. It is recommended that the effect of other trainingmethods remain to be addressed on women’s sexual function and attitude.

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Investigation of health‑promoting behaviors of employees of medical university: A perspective from West of Iran

. Samaneh Tahmasebi Ghorabi; . Mohsen Jalilian; . Jamil Sadeghifar; . Mohammad Sadegh Abedzadeh Zavareh

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Employees spend most of their time at work, and hence, it is important to payattention to health‑promoting behaviors. The purpose of the present study was to investigate ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Employees spend most of their time at work, and hence, it is important to payattention to health‑promoting behaviors. The purpose of the present study was to investigate thestatus of health‑promoting behaviors of employees in the Medical University of Ilam‑Iran.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross‑sectional, descriptive study has been conducted bythe participation of 208 employees, whom selected through the simple random sampling method.In the present study, participants completed Walker’s Health Promoting Life Style Profile II in theself‑report form. The gathered data were analyzed using software at the significant level of 0.05.Data were analyzed by the independent samples t‑test, one‑way analysis of variance, and Pearsoncorrelation coefficients.RESULTS: The highest correlation of health‑promoting behaviors was related to spiritualgrowth (r = 0.785), stress management (r = 0.777), interpersonal relationships (r = 0.767), healthresponsibility (r = 0.730), nutrition behaviors (r = 0.641), and physical activity (r = 0.611) were inthe next places (P < 0.001), respectively. Among sub‑scales, the highest correlation was observedbetween spiritual growth and stress management (r = 0.676, P < 0.001) and the lowest correlationbetween physical activity and interpersonal relationships (r = 0.253, P < 0.001).CONCLUSIONS: The score of physical activity was lower compared to other dimensions of healthpromoting behaviors. Therefore, it is necessary to make more effective interventional measures forimproving physical activity status.

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Approaches and perspectives for online learning during the COVID‑19 pandemic and future chaos

. Shagufta Nesar; . Kiran Rafiq; . Muhammad Rizwan; . Syed Mehmood Hasan

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Online learning (OLL) methodology has been incorporated in higher educationextensively on the mount over the last few decades and with the onset of COVID‑19 situation, ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Online learning (OLL) methodology has been incorporated in higher educationextensively on the mount over the last few decades and with the onset of COVID‑19 situation, thevirtual method in academia became essential. After observing worldly destructions and death dueto coronavirus, the WHO declared a high alert emergency, and since Pakistan started to followlockdown since March 2020 to prevent high penetration and consequently, the online teaching methodwas adapted to keep the learning atmosphere alive. The study is aimed to identify the influencingfactors and compliance for the implementation of the OLL system in COVID‑19 and, in the future,nonpandemic state as well.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study is designed to observe the adaptability and hurdlesamong pharmacy students, and for the purpose of the study, a questionnaire on the Likert scale wasdeveloped and asked to respond from pharmacy undergraduate and postgraduate students aftertaking consensus, which further analyzed through IBM SPSS Statistics Version 26.RESULTS: The outcomes of the study were analyzed with a high level of conformity; however, thegender‑based reservations were observed, and moreover, merits of OLL were observed with highjeopardy.CONCLUSION: The adaptation of OLL, though proved as the only troubleshooter in an uncontrollablesituation and enabled universities, professors, and students for patience, resilience, and hopefully,will serve as swift safeguard for future challenges of epidemic and pandemic disasters. Accordingto the evolution theory, brain adaptability and plasticity of human organisms grow the capacity toadjust itself with an advanced characteristic.

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Online self‑assessment tool in Biochemistry – A medical student’s perception during COVID‑19 pandemic

. Anusha Raja Jagadeesan; . Rajeev Roy Neelakanta

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Online self‑assessment tools have become an important asset among currentteaching, learning, and assessment methods, especially among medical students. Developmentsin ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Online self‑assessment tools have become an important asset among currentteaching, learning, and assessment methods, especially among medical students. Developmentsin information technology and recent changes in methods of undergraduate learning, especially withthe current COVID‑19 pandemic situation, will provide an impetus among students to uptake thisassessment tool. The study is aimed at bringing out the perception of medical students in using anonline self‑assessment tool in Biochemistry on the topics “Liver Function Tests” and “Renal FunctionTests.”MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was an observational study conducted among 150 1st year medical students employing an online self‑assessment tool in Biochemistry, and the perceptionresponse toward the questionnaire was graded.RESULTS: The participation was 100%, with the perception questionnaire having a good internalvalidity (α = 0.847). The students’ response was maximum for questions 9 and 10, which favoredfor provision of instantaneous feedback and application of the same tool for other topics. A positivecorrelation was observed between questionnaires for perceived learning and perceived engagementusing the online self‑assessment tool (r ± 0.554, P = 0.001).CONCLUSION: Self‑assessment tools have an impact on the learning of students only when providedin a suitable environment such as immediate feedback and nonranking mechanisms.

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The effect of coronavirus (COVID‑19) pandemic on medical sciences education in Iran

. Habibolah Rezaei; . Aliakbar Haghdoost; . Hamid Akbari Javar; . Reza Dehnavieh; . Shahintaj Aramesh; . Nasrin Dehgani; . Mohamad Tahmasbi Sisakht

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 has a great impact on medical sciences education. Some researcheshave been conducted on the effects of the COVID‑19 pandemic on medical sciences educationin ...  Read More BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 has a great impact on medical sciences education. Some researcheshave been conducted on the effects of the COVID‑19 pandemic on medical sciences educationin the world. The aim of this study was to identify the effects of this disease on medical scienceseducation in Iran.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This futures study research was carried out using the future wheelmethod in Iran’s University of Medical Sciences in the spring of 2020. A semi‑structured interviewwas also conducted on the vice chancellors of medical sciences universities, faculty presidents,faculty vice chancellors, faculty members, medical education specialists, and university students,who were purposefully identified. The interview continued until achieving data saturation. Analysisof the interviews was performed by MAXQDA version 10 software.RESULTS: The effects were presented at three levels including primary effects, secondary effects,and third effects. In addition, 16 primary effects, 51 secondary effects, and 24 tertiary effects wererecognized. One primary effect of the coronavirus (COVID‑19) pandemic on medical scienceseducation in Iran was fear, stress, and anxiety among students and faculty members as well asstaffs to get the disease. In addition, rumor was circulated concerning the infection of some people,thus, there was a need for holding courses regarding stress management and rumor management.One secondary effect of the coronavirus (COVID‑19) pandemic on medical sciences education inIran was allocation of a number of educational hospitals to the referral hospitals of COVID‑19. Onetertiary effect of the coronavirus (COVID‑19) pandemic on medical sciences education in Iran wasincreasing the number of virtual courses.CONCLUSIONS: The most important effect of this disease on medical sciences education is thepostponement of practical and apprenticeship classes, and consequently the increased length of theacademic term that leads to delay in the students’ graduation, which can reduce the workforce. Onthe one hand, this disease causes death of a number of students, educational and medical staffs,and faculty members, as well as reduces the workforce. Also, lengthening the recruitment of facultymembers will add to this challenge. In this regard, there is a need to plan to compensate for theshortage of required human resources.

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Comparative study of the effect of two counseling methods on fertility motivation in infertile couples

. Fateme Ahmadi Rezamahaleh; . Talat Khadivzadeh; . Seyed Mohsen Asgharinekah; . Habibollah Esmaeili

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Reproductive motivation is a complex issue that has cultural, behavioral, andideological roots and changes in the context of population transfer and economic and socialdevelopment. ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Reproductive motivation is a complex issue that has cultural, behavioral, andideological roots and changes in the context of population transfer and economic and socialdevelopment. Reproductive motivations include positive and negative motivations that can beinfluenced by education. Training can be done in different ways. It seems that face‑to‑face trainingincreases learning. On the other hand, face‑to‑face training increases participants’ cooperation anddesire for educational topics. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare and determine theeffect of two counseling methods on the fertility motivation of infertile couples.MATERIALS AND METHODS : This intervention study was performed on 68 men and womenwith infertility referring to Milad Infertility Center in Mashhad in 2016–2017. Subjects were randomlyassigned to two methods of counseling. Participants completed written consent to participate inthe study. Infertile couples were included in the study if they met the inclusion criteria. The fertilitymotivation questionnaire was completed by the participants at the beginning of the study beforethe consultation and 2 weeks after the consultation. The collected data were analyzed by SPSSSoftware Version 16.RESULTS: According to the independent t‑test, there was no statistically significant differencebetween the mean scores of positive fertility motivation in the two groups of face‑to‑face and telephonecounseling before the intervention. Independent t‑test showed that 2 weeks after the intervention,there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of this variable (P = 0.283). Therewas no statistically significant difference between the mean scores of positive fertility motivation in theface‑to‑face counseling group before and after the intervention. Further, in the telephone counselinggroup, there was no significant difference between the mean scores of positive fertility motivationin the two stages before and after the intervention. According to the independent t‑test, there was astatistically significant difference between the mean scores of negative fertility motivation in the twogroups of face‑to‑face and telephone counseling before the intervention (P = 0.025). However, thistest showed that there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of this variable2 weeks after the intervention.CONCLUSION: The results of this study showed that face‑to‑face and telephone counseling did nothave a significant effect on fertility motivations of infertile couples. In other words, the mean scoresof positive and negative fertility motivations before and after counseling remained unchanged in bothgroups and the two groups did not differ in this regard. In other words, the issue of fertility motivationin infertile women can be affected by different characteristics such as social, family, cultural, andeconomic conditions of individuals. If infertile people do not make having a child a necessity in theirlives and cope with it more easily, no counseling can change their motivation. On the other hand,if infertile women consider having a child as an essential part of their married life and the health oftheir married life, counseling can have the greatest effect on them.

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Economic evaluation of E‑health interventions compared with alternative treatments in older persons’ care: A systematic review

. Aziz Rezapour; . Seyede Sedighe Hosseinijebeli; . Saeed Bagheri Faradonbeh

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  Population aging has increased the need for long‑term care of older persons who suffer frommulti‑morbidity and chronic conditions. Today, the majority of older people are living ...  Read More Population aging has increased the need for long‑term care of older persons who suffer frommulti‑morbidity and chronic conditions. Today, the majority of older people are living alone in theirhome in which they try to cope with highly risky conditions such as sensory impairment, diminishedmobility, and medication management. Recent developments in information technologies couldimprove the access to care for older people as well as reducing the need for full‑time caregiversboth in homes and institutions such as nursery homes and hospitals. This study aimed to reviewthe economic evaluation of such technological advancements in the care of older people. Througha systematic approach, electronic databases were searched and of 2732 records retrieved, threepapers were included in the final review. Three different models of economic evaluation includingcost analysis, cost–benefit analysis and cost‑effectiveness analysis were applied in these studiesin the context of telemedicine and older persons’ care. Since the methodological approaches werequite different and the outcomes reported were not consistent between studies, no meta‑analysiswas applicable and we qualitatively reviewed the papers. All studies have reported cost savingsassociated with the use of telemedicine technologies such as video visits and smart homes in thecare of older persons.

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Predictors and prevalence of periodontitis among pregnant women of slum areas of Patna, India: An opportunity for oral health promotion

. Supriya Singh; . Jazib Nazeer; . Revati Singh; . Kumari Kavita; . Md Asad Iqubal; . Rohit Singh

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: There is abundant documentation in literature that presence of maternal periodontalinfections has been attributed to serious health problem to the mother and the child. ...  Read More BACKGROUND: There is abundant documentation in literature that presence of maternal periodontalinfections has been attributed to serious health problem to the mother and the child. Regular evaluationof any illness burden is required for planning preventive and treatment strategies and fills the existinghealth gap. There is a lack of literature about the predictors and prevalence of periodontal diseasesin expectant women in the slum areas of Patna.MATERIALS AND METHODS: It was a cross‑sectional study conducted on pregnant women ofslum areas of Patna, Bihar, by convenience sampling method. Using a questionnaire, data collectionwas carried for demographic and oral hygiene habits information. Periodontal examination wasdone using modified community periodontal index criteria (WHO, 2013) by recording bleeding onprobing (BoP),   periodontal pockets (PD) and loss of attachment (LoA). The prevalence of potentialpredictors was estimated and bivariate analysis was performed with BoP, PD, and LoA and then toexplore the prevalence of odds ratio (ORs) multivariate logistic regression framework was employed.The level of significance was kept at P < 0.05.RESULTS: A higher level of BoP and PD was observed among women who had the habit ofcleaning their teeth once daily a day than those who cleaned their teeth with brush twice a day. Oralcleanliness (hygiene) frequency established the maximum OR of 2.77 (2.07–3.71) for BoP. Gingivalbleeding robustly was related with PD. Among all multivariate framework of predictors of LoA, BoP,and PD came as the firmest predictors.CONCLUSION: Teaching correctly how to maintain oral hygiene and periodic periodontal check‑upcan improvise the general well‑being and adverse pregnancy outcomes can be lessened.

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Test anxiety and procrastination in physiotherapy students

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

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Short‑term academic procrastination may be accompanied by negative outcomessuch as anxiety, stress, and depression. The current study aims to evaluate the two parameters ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Short‑term academic procrastination may be accompanied by negative outcomessuch as anxiety, stress, and depression. The current study aims to evaluate the two parameters ofprocrastination and test anxiety in physiotherapy students and explore whether a relationship existsbetween them.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A descriptive, cross‑sectional survey with a prospective study designwas carried out over a period of 6 months. The study used a two‑staged cluster sampling method:220 undergraduate and postgraduate physiotherapy students from colleges in Mumbai and NaviMumbai participated in the study, ensuring participation of students from each year of the course.The Westside Test Anxiety Scale was administered to evaluate test anxiety, and the AcademicProcrastination Scale was used to evaluate procrastination. To illustrate the basic demographicsof the participants, descriptive statistics were used. A correlation matrix was used to analyze thecorrelation between the two parameters.RESULTS: The mean procrastination score of the physiotherapy students was 74.1. Amongstundergraduates, the highest procrastination was seen in the 3rd Bachelor of Physiotherapystudents (mean = 76.7), whereas among postgraduates, the highest procrastination was seen inMaster of Physiotherapy 1 students (mean = 75.7). The mean test anxiety score was 3, indicatingmoderately high test anxiety among students. There was a statistically significant, positive correlationbetween test anxiety score and procrastination score (P value = 0.000, Pearson’s correlationco‑efficient = 0.383).CONCLUSION: Both test anxiety and the tendency to procrastinate were present amongundergraduate and postgraduate physiotherapy students, in varying degrees. There was a positivecorrelation between the two factors.

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The effect of cognitive–behavioral counseling of pregnant women with the presence of a spouse on stress, anxiety, and postpartum depression

. Maryam Dafei; . Shahnaz Mojahed; . Ghasem Dastjerdi; . Ali Dehghani; . Tayebeh Shojaaddini Ardakani

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Pregnant women are classified as one of the vulnerable groups. Physiological andpsychological changes during pregnancy predispose them to serious psychiatric disorders; ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Pregnant women are classified as one of the vulnerable groups. Physiological andpsychological changes during pregnancy predispose them to serious psychiatric disorders; if notidentified and treated in time, it can have a negative and long‑term impact on mental health. The aimof this study was to determine the effect of cognitive–behavioral counseling of pregnant women withthe presence of a spouse on the level of stress, anxiety, and postpartum depression.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study is a clinical trial that was performed on 40 pregnantwomen with a gestational age of 32–28 weeks (20 in the intervention group, 20 in the control group)who were randomly assigned to the intervention group and the control group according to the inclusioncriteria. Cognitive–behavioral group counseling in the presence of spouses was performed by themidwife and under the supervision of a psychologist, in eight sessions, each session lasting 90 min,once a week for the intervention group. The control group received routine care and a counselingsession. Data collection tools were demographic information questionnaire and Depression–Anxiety–Stress Scale 21, which were completed before the intervention, immediately after the intervention,and on the 14th day after delivery in both groups. Data analysis was performed using statistical tests,independent t‑test, repeated measures test, Bonferroni post hoc test, and Kolmogorov–Smirnov test.RESULTS: The results of this study showed that the mean scores of stress, anxiety, and depressionin the two groups in the preintervention stage were not significantly different (P < 0.05), but in thepostintervention stage and follow‑up, the mean scores of stress (P < 0.001), depression (P = 0.010),and anxiety (P = 0.029) in the intervention group were significantly reduced compared to the controlgroup.CONCLUSION: According to the research findings, cognitive–behavioral group counseling can beeffective as an approach in improving the symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression in pregnantwomen. Therefore, it is necessary to plan properly to use this counseling approach to manage stress,anxiety, and depression in women during pregnancy.

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Exploring the components of student support system in blended learning for Iranian Universities of Medical Sciences: A thematic analysis

. Mojgan Mohammadimehr; . Zohrehsadat Mirmoghtadaie

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-13

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Support services are a very important element for all educational institutions. Theaims of this study were to explore the components of the student support system in blended ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Support services are a very important element for all educational institutions. Theaims of this study were to explore the components of the student support system in blended learningfor universities of medical sciences in Iran.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study was performed qualitative with exploratoryapproach. The tool used to collect data was a semi‑structured interview, after conducting interviewswith 17 e-learning experts and specialists of universities of medical sciences, we reached informationsaturation. The study was conducted at Aja University of Medical Sciences in Tehran in 2020. Dataanalysis was performed as Thematic Content Analysis by Attride‑Stirling method.RESULTS: From the content analysis of the interviews, 6 main themes and 19 sub‑themes wereobtained. Main themes included “Scientific- cognitive Support”, “Systematic Support”, “HumanResource Support”, “Emotional Support”, “Technical Support” and “Financial- economic Support”.CONCLUSION: Based on the results of this study, 6 basic components and its subcomponents ofthe student support system were obtained. It is suggested that the educational officials of medicaluniversities with blended learning use the results of this study in setting up their student supportsystem for academic success in e‑learning and medical students.

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Factors affecting substance use relapse among Iranian addicts

. Amir Abbas Mousali; . Saeed Bashirian; . Majid Barati; . Younes Mohammadi; . Babak Moeini; . Latif Moradveisi; . Manoj Sharma

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Substance use relapse after treatment is one of the most important aspects ofaddiction. The present study aimed to investigate the factors affecting the substance use relapseamong ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Substance use relapse after treatment is one of the most important aspects ofaddiction. The present study aimed to investigate the factors affecting the substance use relapseamong Iranian addicts.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross‑sectional study was conducted in 2019 on 396 addictsreferring to the addiction treatment centers in Hamadan, who were selected using a cluster randomsampling method. The data were collected by a two‑section questionnaire (demographic variablesand risk factors for substance abuse recurrence). The collected data were analyzed using descriptivestatistics and logistic regression analysis.RESULTS: The participants’ mean (standard deviation) age was 36.56 (8.8) years, and 84.6%of the participants had a history of relapse. The logistic regression analysis revealed thatmarital status (odds ratio [OR] = 2.594; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.472–4.570), personalwillingness (OR = 8.186; 95% CI: 1.875–35.738), pleasure (OR = 2.738; 95% CI: 1.122–6.679), drugavailability (OR = 3.392; 95% CI: 1.023–11.247), family disputes (OR = 4.583; 95% CI: 1.345–15.609),an addicted friend (OR = 2.693; 95% CI: 1.014–7.157), and close addicted relatives (OR = 3.513;95%CI: 1.193–10.348) were the main predictors of addiction relapse (P < 0.05).CONCLUSION: The present study confirmed the effect of several factors (namely demographic,individual, interpersonal, environmental, and behavioral) on the substance use relapse. Accordingly,designing and implementing some interventions based on the findings of the present study maycontribute to preventing substance use relapse.

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Challenges for dental professionals during COVID‑19 pandemic: Are we prepared?

. Mukesh Kumar; . Truppti P. Sonone; . Alok Kumar Shukla; . Kumar Tathagat Singh; . Jay Kishore; . M. Harsha

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-5

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: With the emerging knowledge and understanding of novel coronavirus infection,dentists must be capable of resuming their practice with necessary precautions in near future; ...  Read More BACKGROUND: With the emerging knowledge and understanding of novel coronavirus infection,dentists must be capable of resuming their practice with necessary precautions in near future; hence,the aim of the present study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practices along with feltchallenges by the dentists concerning practicing dentistry during pandemic in India.MATERIALS AND METHODS: An online cross‑sectional questionnaire study was conducted onthe dental practitioners of Uttarakhand, India. The dentists were approached by obtaining theirE‑mail address from the heads of dental institutions or dental association branches in the state. Theknowledge, attitude, and practices along with apparent challenges of practicing during pandemicwere assessed using closed‑ended questionnaire. The relationship between the mean scores anddemographic variables was determined using Student’s unpaired t‑test by keeping the significancelevel below 0.05.RESULTS: Out of 759 respondents, a total of 458 respondents were male (60%), whereas 301 (40%)were female. The mean knowledge scores were higher in females (11.06 ± 2.12) compared tomales (9.72 ± 4.53), which was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The mean practice score was lowerin males (17.49 ± 6.47) compared to females (19.26 ± 6.69) and likewise lower scores were seen ingraduates compared to specialists and these differences were again statistically significant (P < 0.05).Majority of the study participants felt that following various safety guidelines were not feasible (96.97%)and too expensive (96.44%) and considered them as a challenge.CONCLUSION: It is imperative that dentists should be fully prepared before resuming their servicesand reach the right kind of awareness to limit the spread of the disease.

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The biological weapons threats and coping strategies for health promotion

. Seyyed-Javad Hosseini-Shokouh; . Rahim Ali Sheikhi; . Seyed Mohammad Reza Hosseini; . Parisa Moradimajd

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  The biotechnology revolution and the emergence of new ways to change the genetic material of anorganism have led to an increased risk of biological wars. Coping strategies against these ...  Read More The biotechnology revolution and the emergence of new ways to change the genetic material of anorganism have led to an increased risk of biological wars. Coping strategies against these threatsis very important to improve the health of people. Therefore, due to the importance of this issue,this study is aimed to review the scope of using biotechnology and genetic engineering in wars andcoping strategies in all over the world. In this review study, database includes of PubMed, Web ofScience, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Science Direct were searched. The search was limited toreviewed articles in English published between 1990 and 2020. The primary search results generated148 relevant references. After eliminating the duplicates and articles which were not related tothe review of the abstract, 11 references were identified for inclusion in this review. Based on theresults of these studies, the advances in genetic engineering can lead to the development of newweapons for other types of conflict and war scenarios, secret operations, and sabotage activities.Rapid developments in biotechnology and genetics have created environmental, ethical, political,and social challenges for many communities. Increasing awareness and sensitivity, monitoring, andbuilding capacity for effective coping are essential. Biotechnology areas that will probably significantlycontribute to countering biological weapons include recognizing the human genome, strengtheningthe immune system, identifying bacteria and viruses’ genome, equipment for biological identification,new vaccines, new antibiotics, and anti‑viral drugs must be monitored.

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The relationship between emotional intelligence, social responsibility, and job performance in health service providers

. Arash Najimi; . Parvin Doustmohamadi; . Athar Omid

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-5

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Responsibility of individuals in adapting to life events depends on the intertwinedcooperation of intellectual and emotional capacities, and a person’s success in ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Responsibility of individuals in adapting to life events depends on the intertwinedcooperation of intellectual and emotional capacities, and a person’s success in life depends on hisemotional responses. Given that health‑care providers are at the forefront of providing health services,they need to improve their job performance with better control of their emotions and better socialrelationships. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between emotional intelligence,social responsibility, and job performance in health‑care providers and caregivers.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional correlational study was performed on 270 healthworkers working in the western cities of Isfahan province in the first quarter of 1998 by randomclassification sampling method. To collect information, two questionnaires of Bradbury emotionalintelligence, responsibility, social responsibility, whose validity and reliability had been proven inprevious studies, and job performance scores of the samples were used. The collected data wereanalyzed using descriptive tests and Pearson correlation.RESULTS: The participants were 270 health workers and caregivers with a mean age of 34.54 ± 7.26.87.5% of the samples were female and 21.5% were male. The mean score of social responsibilitywas 124.95 ± 10.41, the mean score of emotional intelligence was 125.58 ± 15.86, and the meanscore of job performance was 86.91 ± 9.0.18. The results of Pearson correlation showed that all fourcomponents of social responsibility and total emotional intelligence have a significant correlation atthe level of 0.01. Total emotional intelligence and each of its components did not show a significantcorrelation with job performance. Between social responsibility and job performance of health workers,only the moral component significantly predicts job performance (r = 0.133 and P = 0.026).CONCLUSION: Although the results of the study showed that the job performance, socialresponsibility, and emotional intelligence of the study group were desirable, the score of somecomponents of social responsibility and emotional intelligence is lower than their maximum score.In addition, according to the results of the study that showed the relationship between emotionalintelligence and social responsibility and some of their components with job performance, improvingthe knowledge and skills of health‑care providers and caregivers in the field of social responsibilityand emotional intelligence and their components seems necessary.

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Knowledge, skill, and preventive behaviors regarding COVID‑19 among the public in Shahrekord of Iran

. Elahe Tavassoli; . Fatemeh Baghernezhad Hesary

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 is a serious and costly problem for communities. Observing healthissues and performing preventive behaviors is influenced by their knowledge and skills of peopletoward ...  Read More BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 is a serious and costly problem for communities. Observing healthissues and performing preventive behaviors is influenced by their knowledge and skills of peopletoward COVID‑19. Hence, this study investigated the knowledge, skill, and practice of the public ofShahrekord toward COVID‑19.MATERIALS AND METHOD: The present study was performed as a cross sectional. Data werecollected using an online questionnaire from 540 Shahrekord residents who were selected viaconvenience sampling in 2020. Knowledge, skill, and practice toward COVID‑19 were assessedusing a prevalidated questionnaire. Collected data were analyzed by SPSS‑21 software (one‑wayanalysis of variance, Pearson test, and regression test).RESULTS: In this study, 39.1% were male, and 60.9% were female and 46.3% were 20–25 years.The mean score of knowledge, skill, and preventive behaviors was 75.69 ± 17.85, 53.87 ± 27.40,and 59.97 ± 23.79, respectively. There was a significant direct relationship between knowledgeand skill (P = 0.05 and r = 081) so that public with more knowledge had a better skill as well.There was a significant association between age (P = 0.036), education level (P = 0.019) , andjob (P = 0.014) with knowledge. In addition, a significant association between job (P = 0.027) andmarital status (P = 0.014) with skill was observed. Knowledge, skill, and demographic variablespredict 37.6% preventive behavior.CONCLUSION: The majority of the participants had good knowledge, moderate skill, and relativelyenough practice. Government and policymakers must consider these knowledge levels, skill, andpractices to implement productive interventions for preventing the COVID‑19.

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Maternal predictive factors for preterm birth: A case–control study in Southern Iran

. Azin Alavi; . Parisa Razmjoue; . Ali Safari‑Moradabadi; . Sakineh Dadipoor; . Saeideh Shahsavari

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Preterm birth (PTB) is one of the most important factors that increase the risk ofchronic diseases and postpartum death in infants. The aim of this study was to determine ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Preterm birth (PTB) is one of the most important factors that increase the risk ofchronic diseases and postpartum death in infants. The aim of this study was to determine the maternalfactors that affect the birth of preterm infants in the city of Bandar Abbas.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a case–control study that was performed on 400 preterminfants. Sampling was done by a simple method, and information was gathered by interviewing themothers and their medical records. Data were collected by SPSS software version 16. To comparerisk factors in the two groups, conditional logistic regression was used, and P < 0.05 was consideredstatistically significant.RESULTS: Results showed that factors such as type of delivery (odds ratio [OR] = 3.584, 95%confidence interval [CI]: 1.981–6.485), preeclampsia (OR = 2.688, 95% CI: 1.164–6.207), historyof PTB (OR = 4.171, 95% CI: 1.483–11.728), premature rupture of membranes (OR = 3.273,95% CI: 1.745–6.137), care during prenatal (OR = 0.334, 95% CI: 0.159–0.701), placentalabruption (OR = 3.209, 95% CI: 1.209–8.519), placenta previa (OR = 9.333, 95% CI: 2.086–41.770),and cervical insufficiency (OR = 11, 95% CI: 1.381–87.641) were independent risk factors of preterminfant birth.CONCLUSIONS: The PTB risk is higher for women with cervical insufficiency, history of placentaprevia, and history of preterm. Early recognition and management of these high‑risk conditions amongpregnant women may lead to a reduction in PTB rates.

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Assessment of barriers and motivators to online learning among medical undergraduates of Punjab

. Harjot Kaur; . Amandeep Singh; . Sanjeev Mahajan; . Mohan Lal; . Gagandeep Singh; . Prabhjot Kaur

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, Pages 1-10

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The current corona virus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) pandemic has led to thedisruption of academic activities including medical education which has made online learning onlyavailable ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The current corona virus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) pandemic has led to thedisruption of academic activities including medical education which has made online learning onlyavailable options for continuing education worldwide. Online learning has its own limitations, whichare further amplified if not implemented properly. Hence, there is a need to assess various barriersfaced in the implementation of effective online learning.OBJECTIVES: The objective of the study was to identify the barriers and motivators in online learningamong medical undergraduates.SUBJECTS AND METHODS: This internet‑based cross‑sectional study was conducted amongmedical undergraduates of Punjab. The data collection tool was a semi‑structured self‑madequestionnaire prepared using “Google Forms,” which was then circulated in the WhatsApp groupsof the students. Received responses were imported to the Microsoft Excel sheet and statisticalanalysis was done.RESULTS: Out of the 592 participants, 533 (90%) faced some kind of problem in online learning.Major among them were lack of personal interaction with teachers (52%), distractions at home (43.6%),technology failure (43.2%), limited access to the Internet (39.2%), visual fatigue (38.5%), andincreased workload (25%). Benefits perceived were the comfortable environment of home (41%), easyaccessibility of recorded lectures (36.8%), and the opportunity to keep in touch with studies (35%).CONCLUSIONS: The online learning process is not a replacement for routine classroom teachingand clinical postings in medical education. However, it can supplement routine teaching, especiallyduring current COVID‑19 pandemic‑like situations. Most of the students (90%) were facing somekind of difficulty in the online learning process due to unplanned and sudden shifts. Therefore, it isnecessary to identify and eliminate the various barriers to make online learning effective.

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