Journal of Education and Health Promotion

Care burden dimensions of informal caregivers having patients with bipolar disorder (challenges and alternatives) (qualitative study)

. Mehdi Kargar; . Seyed Aliakbar Faghihi; . Mahin Nazari

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-12

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Taking care of patients with bipolar disorder (BD) makes critical challenges fortheir informal caregivers (ICGs) and forces them to tolerate considerable burden. This qualitativestudy ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Taking care of patients with bipolar disorder (BD) makes critical challenges fortheir informal caregivers (ICGs) and forces them to tolerate considerable burden. This qualitativestudy explored the dimensions of ICGs’ care burden (CB) based on their own experiences and thepatients’ therapists.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a qualitative study which was conducted based on conventionalcontent analysis through semistructured and in‑depth interviews. Purposive sampling was used toselect the participants including 13 ICGs and 14 therapists (2 psychiatrists, 10 psychiatric nurses,and 2 clinical psychologists). Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed usingGraneheim’s 2004 principles.RESULTS: Qualitative analyses yielded three major themes: “challenges associated with the natureof BD,” “challenges related to the ICGs,” and “challenges related to interventions.” The categories ofthe first theme entailed “individual‑oriented characteristics of BD” and “social‑oriented characteristicsof BD.” The categories of the second theme consisted of “social stigma,” “psychiatric problems andhelplessness of ICGs,” “financial costs related to providing cares,” and “insufficient self‑efficacy ofICGs in cares provision.” The categories of the last theme included “educational interventions” and“organizational interventions.”CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that the burden of ICGs have individual, social, andorganizational aspects. Every one of them impacts the severity of their burden remarkably. Thedepth of the therapists’ experiences has a significant role in designing the interventions to reducethis burden. The present investigation emphasized the constitution of a comprehensive frameworkrelated to all factors affecting burden in a developing country.

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Psychological stress and its relation to social distancing among a sample of Saudi during COVID‑19 pandemic

. Fertaj Alzwain; . Mohammad Bashatwa; . Burhan Hamadneh

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Over the last year, the world has witnessed an infectious disease (COVID‑19)outbreak that has shown a high rate of spread. Therefore, several prevention and mitigation ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Over the last year, the world has witnessed an infectious disease (COVID‑19)outbreak that has shown a high rate of spread. Therefore, several prevention and mitigation measureshave been imposed to control the spread of the virus worldwide. The aim of the current study is toidentify the commitment level to social distancing and its relationship to psychological stress amongmembers of Saudi society during COVID‑19 pandemic.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The descriptive correlational design was employed in the currentstudy, and the sample of the study consisted of 536 Saudis selected using convenient samplingmethod. The study was conducted in four cities in Saudi Arabia (Altayef, Mecca, and Najran, in 2020during COVID‑19 pandemic using quantitative survey method. Several analysis methods using SPSSsoftware were used to analyze the data such as mean and standard deviation, three‑way ANOVA,Scheffe’s test, and Pearson correlation.RESULTS: The study revealed that the psychological stress and commitment level to socialdistancing by the study sample during COVID‑19 pandemic was moderate, and differences wereobserved among the study variables. Furthermore, the study revealed a statistically significantnegative correlation between the commitment level to social distancing and the exposure topsychological pressures.CONCLUSION: The study contributed to literature by developing a model to enhance the importanceof social distancing of people during COVID‑19 pandemic. The study recommends the necessity toprovide advice and counseling services that enhance community members’ awareness about theapplication of social distancing during COVID‑19 pandemic.,

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An overview of 2019 novel coronavirus COVID‑19 pandemic: A review study

. Vahid Hatami Garosi; . Sepideh Tanhaie; . Fakhreddin Chaboksavar; . Teymour Kamari; . Parvin Abdi Gheshlaghi; . Razie Toghroli; . Simin Soltaninezhad; . Seyyed Amar Azizi; . Vahid Yazdani; . Fatemeh Mahmoodi

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

Abstract

  Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus2, was first reported in December 2019 in Wuhan, Hubei province, China. It is now known ...  Read More Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus2, was first reported in December 2019 in Wuhan, Hubei province, China. It is now known as apandemic and a global crisis due to rapid human‑to‑human transmission with the vast expansionthat has affected almost all countries. The primary source of the disease is still unknown, but it ispossible that the virus was transmitted through bat to an intermediate host and then to humans.The main and early symptoms of COVID‑19 infection are fatigue, fever, dry cough, myalgia, anddyspnea. The incubation period of the disease is about 2–14 days, which is one of the importantparameters for planning to prevent disease outbreak. PT‑polymerase chain reaction test is used todiagnose the disease; chest computed tomography scan, chest X‑ray, blood tests, and symptomsare also very helpful in diagnosing the disease. There is a strong emphasis on controlling infectionsand hand hygiene to prevent the transmission of the disease. There is not enough knowledge aboutthis disease yet, and there are no specific vaccines or medications available to prevent and treat thisdisease. The current review study uses articles indexed on databases of Embase, Elsevier, PubMed,and World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and keywords ofcoronavirus, COVID‑19, acute respiratory distress syndrome and China.

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Information challenges of COVID‑19: A qualitative research

. Golrokh Atighechian; . Fatemeh Rezaei; . Nahid Tavakoli; . Mitra Abarghoian

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

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: At the beginning of the COVID‑19 pandemic, the Iranian Ministry of Health andMedical Education set up a 24‑h call center, i.e., Center 4030, to mitigate people’s ...  Read More BACKGROUND: At the beginning of the COVID‑19 pandemic, the Iranian Ministry of Health andMedical Education set up a 24‑h call center, i.e., Center 4030, to mitigate people’s worries andanxieties, create composure, increase people’s trust, and answer their questions. This qualitativestudy aimed to identify the challenges of COVID‑19‑related‑information among people in point ofexperts’ views.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This qualitative study was conducted to collect the opinions of expertson the identification of the Information challenges of COVID‑19 during March–June 2020. Theresearch population included all health professionals and experts. The sampling method was initiallypurposive and continued to saturate the data as snowball technique. In this study, 19 participantswere interviewed. The data were collected using a semi‑structured interview. After collecting the data,the audio files of the interviews were written down to extract their external and internal elements.MAXQDA version 12 software was used to organize qualitative analysis and coding data.RESULTS: The results of this study involved eight themes, i.e., lack of planning, lack of social trustin government, lack of COVID‑19‑integrated scientific authority in the country, conflicts of interest,lack of integrated information sources, distracting public attention, infodemic, and poor informationquality, classified into 16 categories.CONCLUSIONS: The main information challenges that people in Iran faced included the lack ofa scientific reference source to access accurate information, the existence of a large volume ofinformation in virtual networks, and a huge volume of statistics from various information channelsthat caused confusion among people.

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Content analysis of educational videos on hand hygiene during COVID‑19 pandemic

. Divya Verma; . Divita Sharma; . Meenakshi Khapre

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

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Online platforms are the most popular mode of entertainment, simultaneouslyimparting knowledge and education. During COVID pandemic, there was a sudden influx ofeducational ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Online platforms are the most popular mode of entertainment, simultaneouslyimparting knowledge and education. During COVID pandemic, there was a sudden influx ofeducational videos on social media/websites with a purpose of spreading the information about handhygiene (HH) practices. The aim of this study was to explore and assess the HH videos based onits content and technical quality to promote the learning experience of videos.MATERIALS AND METHODS: HH videos from the official sites of five international healthorganizations and 42 national health institutes were assessed based on their availability of the HHvideos. Verified YouTube videos on HH since January 2020 were further screened and assessedusing the author’s designed validated checklist. Each video was systematically evaluated and scoredagainst the seven categories, namely introduction, audio, visuals/background, speaker/demonstrator,content, timing, and appeal.RESULTS: A total of 50 videos were assessed for analysis. Of these, 82% of videos scored >50%,i.e., 14. Among low scorer, seven videos were from YouTube channel. Majority of the videos weretechnically sound, 44% aroused interest, 82% had a simple, understandable message; in around46% of the videos, the presenter was a healthcare worker; and in 24%, the information was accurateas per the World Health Organization guidelines.CONCLUSIONS: This study concluded that most of the HH videos were found to be just aboveaverage in their content quality and technicality.

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The effect of walking during late pregnancy on the outcomes of labor and delivery: A randomized clinical trial

. Behnaz Shojaei; . Marzeyeh Loripoor; . Mahmoud Sheikhfathollahi; . Fariba Aminzadeh

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Exercising during pregnancy has various benefits for the mother and the fetus, butthere are controversial results about its effect on labor and delivery. Therefore, the ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Exercising during pregnancy has various benefits for the mother and the fetus, butthere are controversial results about its effect on labor and delivery. Therefore, the present studywas conducted to evaluate the effect of walking during late pregnancy on the outcomes of laborand delivery.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present randomized clinical trial was conducted on 102 pregnantwomen who were referred to the comprehensive health service centers of Rafsanjan and wereselected using convenient sampling method and randomly were allocated into two groups fromAugust 2018 to February 2019. The intervention group performed walking from the 34th week ofpregnancy until the time of delivery 4 times per  week, each time for 40 min. The control group justreceived the routine prenatal care. Information about the outcomes of delivery were gathered fromthe participants’ medical files in the hospital and were analyzed using SPSS software version 22and Chi‑square and independent t‑tests.RESULTS: The results indicated that the Bishop score of the intervention group was significantlyhigher than the control group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, regarding the duration of the third phaseof delivery, spontaneous labor, induced labor, cesarean section , and instrumental delivery,a statistically significant difference was observed between the intervention and the controlgroups (P < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between both the groupsregarding the duration of the first and the second stages of delivery and Apgar score at 1st and5th min (P > 0.05).CONCLUSIONS:  Walking during late pregnancy could improve Bishop score, increase spontaneousonset of labor, and decrease induction, cesarean, and instrumental delivery without having anyadverse effect on the neonate’s Apgar score.

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Patterns of traumatic events and its relations with posttraumatic growth and religiosity in Iranian college students

. Hadis Amiri; . Maysam Rezapour; . Nouzar Nakhaee; . Mahmoud Nekoei‑Moghadam; . Yunes Jahani

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Traumatic events and psychological damage are common. Identifying differenttypes of traumatic events contributes to the development of psychopathology and can be very helpfulin ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Traumatic events and psychological damage are common. Identifying differenttypes of traumatic events contributes to the development of psychopathology and can be very helpfulin macroeducational and treatment planners. The current study extracted the patterns (overlap)of different traumatic events that Iranian college students commonly experience, with the aim ofunderstanding their association with posttraumatic growth (PTG) and religiosity.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four hundred and sixty‑six students from Kerman universitiescompleted a cross‑sectional survey about religion, and questions about PTG and traumatic eventshave experienced in the past 5 years. The latent class analysis (LCA) was used for extracting patternsof traumatic events, and the one‑way ANOVA test was used to compare PTG and religiosity acrossthese classes in Iranian college students.RESULTS: The LCA revealed that a three‑class solution had an adequate relative and absolutefit. The three classes were labeled and characterized as multiple‑traumatic events (2.9%),intermediate‑traumatic events (31.1%), and low‑traumatic events (66.0%). In ANOVA results forPTG and Duke University Religion Index (DUREL) domains across classes, individuals in themultiple‑traumatic classes had the lowest score of PTG and DUREL domains.CONCLUSION: Although the current study showed the relative frequency of multiple‑traumaticevents in Iranian students is low, individuals categorized in this class had the lowest PTG, and thesefindings reveal the necessitation of planning and interventions for PTG.

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Awareness, perception, and mitigating measures on COVID‑19: Do we still need to educate our masses on COVID‑19?

. Mukesh Bairwa; . Rajesh Kumar; . Poonam Yadav; . Yogesh Bahurupi; . Ravi Kant

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

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 was declared an emergency of international concern by the World HealthOrganization in 2020. This study assesses patients’ awareness, perception, and mitigating ...  Read More BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 was declared an emergency of international concern by the World HealthOrganization in 2020. This study assesses patients’ awareness, perception, and mitigating measurestaken during the COVID‑19 outbreak visiting an apex tertiary health‑care center in North India.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional study was conducted between September 15,2020, and November 15, 2020, in a tertiary care public hospital, North India, using a structuredself‑administered questionnaire. The survey included 809 patients using a consecutive samplingstrategy. The self‑structured and prevalidated questionnaire was used to collect information onstudy variables. Chi‑square test and independent samples t‑test, followed by binary and multivariatelogistic regression, was used to determine the factors associated with awareness toward COVID‑19.RESULTS: The mean age of participants was 32.41 (±11.24) years. Multivariate logistic regressionshows that married participants (OR: 0.660, 95 % CI: 0.440-0.989, P= 0.044), reading books/magazine or attended institutional lectures (OR: 2.241, 95% CI: 1.545–3.249, P = 0.001), and watchingtelevision and radio (OR: 1.824, 95% CI: 1.283–2.592, P = 0.001) are significantly more aware thantheir counterparts. Participants with higher income group (>20,000 Indian rupee) significantly hadhigher awareness than participants having salary <10,000 rupees (OR: 0.280, 95% CI: 0.178–0.440,P = 0.001) or 10,001–20,000 rupees (OR: 0.481, 95% CI: 0.297–0.777, P = 0.003). Patientsavoiding traveling across or abroad had significantly much reasonably good awareness than theircounterparts (OR: 0.357, 95% CI: 0.139–0.918, P = 0.033).CONCLUSIONS: Participants demonstrated good awareness, encouraging perception, and compliedwith appropriate mitigating measures during the outbreak. Considering frequent waves and thepandemic’s long duration, consistent reinforcement of government measures, including masks,maintaining social distance, and frequent handwashing, is much needed.

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A qualitative study of health information‑seeking behavior on the Internet among information technology professionals

. Priyadarshini Pattath

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The motivation to seek health information on the Internet for individuals has beenvaried. The purpose of this paper was to explore the perspectives and experiences about ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The motivation to seek health information on the Internet for individuals has beenvaried. The purpose of this paper was to explore the perspectives and experiences about onlinehealth information seeking in information technology (IT) professionals.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A qualitative case study research design was employed to examinethe behavior of 15 IT professionals from a state organization in the East Coast of the United Statesof America. Convenience sampling was used to identify the setting, and purposeful sampling wasused to select the participants. A survey questionnaire was used as a recruitment tool, and in‑depthindividual interviews with standardized semi‑structured questions were used to collect data.RESULTS: Findings illustrated that the Internet was the first source of reference for wellness andprevention information to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and to alleviate and prevent work‑relatedmusculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). The themes that emerged from the study were that the ITprofessionals searched the Internet for information to self‑educate about medical conditions, tomaintain fitness, communicate with health‑care professionals, decide their treatment options, and tomake lifestyle modifications such as ergonomic adjustment of their workstation, postural adjustments,and changing negative health behaviors.CONCLUSION: The results of this study provide practical implications for organizations and healthprofessionals in providing health education to prevent WMSDs as participants sought healthinformation online to take actions and collaborate with their health‑care professionals and activelycontributed to their medical health decisions. This underscores a valuable opportunity for health‑careproviders and public health officials to become more proactive by providing their patients with qualityhealth information outside their office through the Internet by referring them to credible websitesources.

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The effect of pregnancy training classes based on bandura self‑efficacy theory on postpartum depression and anxiety and type of delivery

. Fatemeh Mohammadi; . Shahnaz Kohan; . Sedigheh Farzi; . Mojgan Khosravi; . Zeinab Heidari

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Postpartum depression and anxiety is one of the most common complicationsthat women face and cause many problems for mother, baby, and family. Considering the effect ofself‑efficacy ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Postpartum depression and anxiety is one of the most common complicationsthat women face and cause many problems for mother, baby, and family. Considering the effect ofself‑efficacy on women’s adaptation to pregnancy and delivery conditions and their mental healthduring this period, the present study was designed to investigate the effect of pregnancy trainingclasses based on Bandura self‑efficacy theory on postpartum depression and anxiety and type ofdelivery.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this clinical trial study, 64 pregnant women were randomly dividedinto intervention and control groups. Mothers in the intervention group received pregnancy trainingin eight sessions (each session was 2‑hour) from the 20th week of pregnancy. The classes were runby a trained midwife and the content of the training was based on Bandura self‑efficacy components.The mothers in the control group received routine care. The demographic‑reproductive informationform, Beck Depression and Spielberger Anxiety Questionnaire were completed by pregnant womenof both groups at several times, before the program, 1 week and 1 month after delivery.RESULTS: The results showed that the training program significantly decreased the depressionscore in 1 week and 1 month after delivery in the intervention group compared to the control group.In addition, this training program decreased the mean score of apparent and hidden anxiety in theintervention group 1 month after delivery, although this decrease was not statistically significant.Furthermore, 80.55% of the intervention group and 58.33% of the control group had vaginal delivery,which were significantly different between the two groups in terms of the type of delivery.CONCLUSION: The findings showed that pregnancy training classes based on Bandura self‑efficacytheory decrease depression and anxiety and increases vaginal delivery rate.

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Effects of Rosa damascena (Damask rose) on menstruation‑related pain, headache, fatigue, anxiety, and bloating: A systematic review and meta‑analysis of randomized controlled trials

. Seyedeh Atefeh Koohpayeh; . Meimanat Hosseini; . Morteza Nasiri; . Masoud Rezaei

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-13

Abstract

  Recent studies have reported inconclusive results regarding the therapeutic effects of Rosadamascena on the outcomes of primary dysmenorrhea (PD) and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).Hence, ...  Read More Recent studies have reported inconclusive results regarding the therapeutic effects of Rosadamascena on the outcomes of primary dysmenorrhea (PD) and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).Hence, this study is aimed to summarize the findings of randomized controlled trials (RCTs)regarding the effects of this treatment on menstruation‑related pain as the primary outcome andmenstruation‑related headache, fatigue, anxiety, and bloating as the secondary outcomes. Thisstudy evaluated parallel‑group and cross‑over RCTs on aromatherapy, topical treatment, ororal intake of R. damascena products for the treatment groups versus placebo, nontreated, orconventional treatment groups. Seven electronic databases (Web of Science Core Collection,Scopus, Embase, CENTRAL, CINAHL, SID, and MagIran) and one search engine (PubMed) weresearched from inception to January 15, 2021. Of 1468 trials found in the initial search, 983 potentiallyrelevant articles were screened by title and abstract. After examining the full‑text of 13 studies forcompliance with the inclusion criteria, seven studies were considered eligible for this review. Arandom‑effects model was used to pool the data; otherwise, a narrative summary was presented.The retrieved studies were conducted on females with PD or PMS, aged 18–35 years. The totalsample size of the intervention and comparator arms was 276 and 272. The results showed thatR. damascena had a nonsignificant alleviating effect on the menstruation‑related pain (weightedmean difference [WMD]: −0.47; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −1.25, 0.31; P = 0.234). Such findingswere also found for menstruation‑related anxiety (WMD: −0.40; 95% CI: −0.91, 0.11; P = 0.125).However, the treatment significantly reduced the menstruation‑related headache (WMD: −0.42;95% CI: −0.74, −0.11; P = 0.008), fatigue (WMD: −0.48; 95% CI: −0.87, −0.09; P = 0.015), andbloating (WMD: −0.72; 95% CI: −1.21, −0.22; P = 0.005). Since R. damascena had no significanteffects on menstruation‑related pain and anxiety, further studies with improved methodologicalquality are suggested to evaluate the effects of the treatment on these symptoms, using differentdosages and durations.

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The effects of teaching methods on academic motivation in nursing students: A systematic review

. Maryam Saeedi; . Raziyeh Ghafouri; . Fereshteh Javaheri Tehrani; . Zahra Abedini

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  Motivation is one of the key factors in educational achievement. Like any other field of study, motivationin nursing is highly critical. The instructor’s knowledge about the teaching ...  Read More Motivation is one of the key factors in educational achievement. Like any other field of study, motivationin nursing is highly critical. The instructor’s knowledge about the teaching methods that are effectivein academic motivation of students enables them to adopt proper measures to improve the teachingefficiency. The present paper is a systemic review of the efficiency of instructional interventions inimprovement of academic motivation in nursing students. The published papers related to the studyfrom 2000 to February 2020 were searched at different databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Webof Science, PsycInfo, and ERIC. To examine the quality of the articles, critical appraisal instrumentfor reports of educational interventions was used. Totally, 18 articles entered the study for structuredreview. The majority of the articles reported that educational interventions improved academicmotivation in nursing students. The effective teaching methods described in the reviewed articlesthat led to an improvement in academic motivation were simulation, case‑based learning, cooperativelearning, learning contract, peer assessment, and self‑assessment using video typing. As the findingsshowed, implementation of applied and participatory methods in teaching process improved theacademic motivation of nursing students. Therefore, using such methods, nursing instructors canimprove the academic motivation of their students.

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The most prominent problems of diabetes education in Iran: A qualitative content analysis

. Faridokht Yazdani; . Parvaneh Abazari; . Fariba Haghani; . Bijan Iraj

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Education in vulnerable communities can be a health affordable strategy topromote patient empowerment. Recognition and understanding the problems of diabetes educationare ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Education in vulnerable communities can be a health affordable strategy topromote patient empowerment. Recognition and understanding the problems of diabetes educationare of significance to overcome the barriers and advance the educational and care services tocontrol diabetes and promotion of society health. The aim of this study was to explore participants’perspectives, experiences, and preferences, regarding diabetes education problems.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This descriptive, qualitative study was conducted from March 2016 toSeptember 2017. The participants were 23 people including nine patients with diabetes and their familymembers and 14 members of diabetes healthcare team (physicians, nurses, and nutritionists). Thedata were collected through individual semi‑structured interviews and analyzed through conventionalcontent analysis approach proposed by Graneheim and Lundman. Some main categories andsubcategories emerged.RESULTS: Three main categories showed the most prominent problems of diabetes education,namely, inadequate infrastructure for diabetes education, insufficient defined and de facto positionfor the role of diabetes nurse educator, and the failure in patient‑oriented team approach in diabeteseducation.CONCLUSION: This article addresses the most important problems of diabetes education. Thefundamental strategy to overcome these problems seems to be the planning and management ofdiabetes education as a high priority in the noncommunicable disease management policies of theMinistry of Health and Medical Education.

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Psycho‑social and behavioral impact of COVID‑19 on middle‑aged and elderly individuals: A qualitative study

. Avinash Chakrawarty; . Piyush Ranjan; . Kamal Bandhu Klanidhi; . Divjyot Kaur; . Siddharth Sarkar; . Anamika Sahu; . M. Bhavesh; . Upendra Baitha; . Arvind Kumar; . Naveet Wig

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 may seem to have an impact on middle‑aged and elderly people.However, not much is known about the lived experiences of middle‑aged and elderly people duringthis ...  Read More BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 may seem to have an impact on middle‑aged and elderly people.However, not much is known about the lived experiences of middle‑aged and elderly people duringthis pandemic. The study aims to explore psychosocial and behavioral impact of COVID‑19 on thelives of these individuals.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three focus group discussions and seven in‑depth interviews wereconducted. A format to guide discussions and interviews was made to bring uniformity across groupsand participants. Participants were recruited through purposive and snowball sampling techniques.Discussions were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis method was used to extractkey conceptual themes.RESULTS: There were 12 male and 10 female participants included, with a mean age of62.2 years. Five subcategories identified were: Fear and anxiety, household confinement, lifestylemodification, preventive practices, and coping strategies. These sub‑categories formed three majorcategories‑psychological, social, and behavioral which ultimately led to the emergence of the maintheme that is, COVID‑19 effects on the life of middle‑aged and older individuals.CONCLUSION: Middle‑aged and elderly people are affected in many ways due to COVID‑19.Addressing the psycho‑social and behavioral problems can help in the better adjustment to tideover the pandemic.

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Health‑care reform implementation challenges at suburban areas in Isfahan province: A qualitative study

. Nasrin Shaarbafchizadeh; . Zahra Fouladi; . Pejman Aqdak; . Ahmad Reza Raeisi

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-11

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Health system reform plan in public health sector in Iran in the first phase focusedon improving primary health care in suburban areas in and around big cities. The present ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Health system reform plan in public health sector in Iran in the first phase focusedon improving primary health care in suburban areas in and around big cities. The present study wasconducted to assess the implementation process challenges of the reform plan in comprehensivehealth service centers at suburban areas of Isfahan in 2019.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This qualitative study with conventional content analysis approachwas conducted in 2019. Participants were purposefully selected and interviewed at provinciallevels from Isfahan University of Medical Sciences health department and health‑care providersof comprehensive health services centers. The saturation point was reached after 21 face‑to‑facesemi‑structured interviews. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze transcribed documentsassisted by MAXQDA version 10.RESULTS: The results revealed four main themes; the human resource management, the executivemanagement, the electronic infrastructure, and the resource management.The major challengesin the implementation planning process included: the referral system, monitoring and supervision,electronic services infrastructure in the design and development of the EHR called the SIB system,lack of instructions guide, salaries and benefits, inconsistent financial and human resources andinappropriate allocation of theses resources.CONCLUSION: Despite the achievements in the development of the Iran health system reform plan,there were many challenges in the implementation planning process. It is recommended that theseschallenges be reviewed and amended by health system managers and policymakers.

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Evaluation of the effect of education on perceived stress of mother candidates for amniocentesis

. Shahnaz Mojahed; . Fariba Reyhanizadeh; . Razieh Sadat Tabatabaei; . Ali Dehghani

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Amniocentesis is one of the methods for diagnosing prenatal abnormalities.Pregnant women with high‑risk fetal screening results are the candidates for amniocentesis. Mostof ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Amniocentesis is one of the methods for diagnosing prenatal abnormalities.Pregnant women with high‑risk fetal screening results are the candidates for amniocentesis. Mostof these women are afraid of this procedure because they predict that the test will be painful andworried about its adverse effects on pregnancy, fetal injury, or the risk of maternal death. Therefore,the aim of this study was to determine the effect of education on the perceived stress of motherswho are the candidates for amniocentesis.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study was a quasi‑experimental, two‑group clinical trialwith a parallel design. This study was in three stages: pretest (before intervention), posttest (afterintervention), and after amniocentesis. This study was performed on 80 pregnant women who werethe candidates for amniocentesis (15–20 weeks of pregnancy) with high‑risk fetal screening resultsreferred to the perinatology clinic in Yazd in 2020. The intervention package included training andusing breathing techniques, broadcasting educational animations on how to perform amniocentesis,expressing experiences by people who had experienced amniocentesis, and finally visiting theamniocentesis site and getting to know the relevant perinatologist. Data collection tools weredemographic and midwifery profile questionnaires and Cohen perceived stress. SPSS softwareversion 16 was used for statistical analysis of data.RESULTS: The results showed that the research units had high stress at the beginning of thestudy. The perceived stress score at the beginning of the study in the intervention group was30.1750 ± 6.53153 and in the control group was 28.2750 ± 8.57841. After the intervention, theparticipants’ stress level decreased below the cutting point. In the experimental group, the meanstresses after the intervention and after amniocentesis were significantly lower than before theintervention; however, after amniocentesis, it was somewhat higher than the postintervention stage.In the preintervention stage, the mean stress score between the two groups was not statisticallysignificant. The difference after the intervention between the two groups was significant (P < 001.0);however, in the postamniocentesis stage, the difference in stress was not significant. After theintervention and after amniocentesis, the perceived stress of pregnant mothers in the experimentalgroup was less than the control group.CONCLUSION: Considering that the perceived stress in amniocentesis candidate mothers washigh in the present study, so that after performing the method, mothers left the center with highstress, it is very important to pay attention to its psychological aspects. Therefore, it is suggestedthat educational interventions before and during amniocentesis be considered for them along withpsychological support and follow‑up care after amniocentesis.

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Factors affecting the prevalence of stress, anxiety, and depression in undergraduate Indian dental students

. Abdul Ahad; . Puneet Chahar; . Ekramul Haque; . Afshan Bey; . Meena Jain; . Waseem Raja

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The objective was to assess the prevalence and the associated demographicfactors of stress, anxiety, and depression among undergraduate (UG) Indian dental students anddetermine ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The objective was to assess the prevalence and the associated demographicfactors of stress, anxiety, and depression among undergraduate (UG) Indian dental students anddetermine whether the pattern is different in government‑run institutions and those managed byprivate authorities.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional study was conducted among dental UG studentsfrom five dental colleges. Snowball sampling was used to approach 776 potential participants, resultingin a complete response from 507 students. The questionnaire consisted of demographic data; yearof study; type of college; accommodation; and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS)‑42.Descriptive data and inferential statistics were obtained. Chi‑square test was applied for categoricaldata to test for significance, and higher analysis was done using multiple linear regression.RESULTS: Females and males comprised 71.8% (n = 364) and 28.2% (n = 143) of the studypopulation, respectively. The prevalence of anxiety was highest (66.86%, n = 339), followed bydepression (57.39%, n = 291) and stress (43.99%, n = 223). In terms of severity also, anxiety wasthe most prevalent condition as more than one‑fourth of the students presented with severe andvery severe scores in this aspect (25.43%, n = 129) compared to depression (14.39%, n = 73) andstress (10.09%, n = 51). Regression analysis revealed age as a strong positive predictor for all thethree conditions, while staying in the hostel was a positive predictor for anxiety and stress. Beingfemale was also an independent predictor for the high prevalence of stress.CONCLUSION: Stress, anxiety, and depression are highly prevalent among Indian dental students.Clinical students and interns have a higher prevalence of stress than preclinical students. Age,being female, and staying in the hostel are positive predictors for the severity of stress. There is nosignificant difference between government and private colleges, regarding the prevalence of anypsychological condition.

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Preoperative anxiety among Iranian adult patients undergoing elective surgeries in educational hospitals

. Ali Barkhori; . Hamid Pakmanesh; . Amirreza Sadeghifar; . Ali Hojati; . Morteza Hashemian

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Although surgical techniques have been improving, preoperative anxiety is stilla challenge in preoperative care and is known as an expected response experienced by patientswaiting ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Although surgical techniques have been improving, preoperative anxiety is stilla challenge in preoperative care and is known as an expected response experienced by patientswaiting to undergo surgery. The present study aimed to compare preoperative anxiety levels in threeeducational hospitals in Kerman.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross‑sectional study was conducted in three educationalhospitals in Kerman, Iran, from December 2017 to May 2018. The participants were 100 patients fromeach hospital (300 patients in sum) who were selected through the convenience sampling method.Sampling was not restricted to sex and type of surgery. The 40‑item Spielberger State‑Trait AnxietyInventory was administered to the patients to assess the level of preoperative anxiety experiencedby them. Bivariate linear regression models were used to compare the preoperative state anxietylevels based on the patients’ demographic information. A multivariate linear regression model wasused to determine the predictors of preoperative state anxiety.RESULTS: The participants were 149 males and 151 females with a mean age of 36.38 (12.75)years (age range: 12–79 years). Almost two‑third of the patients showed upper‑middle symptomsof state anxiety (n = 197, 65.7%) followed by upper‑middle symptoms of trait anxiety (40% and49.3%, respectively). There was a significant relationship between the patient’s sex and stateanxiety (P = 0.05) and also between trait anxiety and state anxiety (P ≤ 0.001). It was shown thattrain anxiety could predict state anxiety before surgery (B: 0.53, 95% confidence interval: 0.44, 0.62;P ≤ 0.001).CONCLUSION: The results of the present study confirmed the presence of preoperative anxiety ina sample of Iranian patients. Although the anxiety scores were not very high, organizing interventionand training programs to control and reduce preoperative anxiety among patients seems essential.

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Effectiveness of problem‑based learning approach for teaching‑learning biostatistics among medical students

. Anand Bihari; . Sonali G. Choudhari; . Ankit Srivastava

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-5

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Lecturing (didactic) has been the key teaching-learning method for a long time.As per competency-based medical education, an Indian medical graduate should be competent ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Lecturing (didactic) has been the key teaching-learning method for a long time.As per competency-based medical education, an Indian medical graduate should be competent inrecommended skills. In the subject of Community Medicine of medical undergraduation, “Biostatistics”is one of the components of the curriculum. Often the students find the statistics challenging tounderstand and thus neglect it or prefer rote learning. In the recent era, many newer teachinglearning modalities have come up, namely problem-based learning (PBL), small group teaching,community-based learning, etc. The objective was to compare the utility and effectiveness of PBLversus traditional teaching techniques (didactic) for Biostatistics.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was conducted in the department of Community Medicine,Government Medical College, Azamgarh (Uttar Pradesh) from March to November 2019. A total of96 medical students of the final year were randomly divided into two groups. ‘Group A’ underwentdidactic lecturing whereas “Group B” had problem‑based learning for identified topics in Biostatistics.The teaching material and instructors were the same for both groups. Two weeks after completionof sessions, students’ assessment was carried out for both groups.RESULTS: The study demonstrated that the PBL method was a more effective way of teaching-learningstatistics compared to didactic lecturing. A significant difference (P < 0.05) was observed betweenthe mean examination score of Group A (traditional teaching technique) and Group B (PBL). GroupB had higher scores than group A in all assessment heads (Objective, Descriptive, and Viva-voce).PBL was perceived to be a student-centric Teaching-learning method promoting analytical skills,critical thinking & overall self-directed learning.CONCLUSION: PBL teaching method was found to be effective in improving the students’performance in Statistics in comparison to didactic lecturing.

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Community empowerment for health promotion in slums areas: A narrative review with emphasis on challenges and interventions

. Mohammad Hosein Mehrolhasani; . ahid Yazdi‑Feyzabadi; . Sara Ghasemi

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-12

Abstract

  Community empowerment has been proposed since the 1980s as a way to increase people’s powerto influence social determinants of health. However, community empowerment for health ...  Read More Community empowerment has been proposed since the 1980s as a way to increase people’s powerto influence social determinants of health. However, community empowerment for health promotionin urban slums still faces challenges. The present study examined interventions, challenges, actors,scopes, and the consequences mentioned in various studies and with emphasizing interventionsand executive challenges tried to create a clear understanding of empowerment programs in slumsand improving their health. Narrative review method was used to conduct the study. Databasesincluding PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane were searched. The selectionof studies was done according to the “community empowerment” defined by the World HealthOrganization, the concept of bottom–up approach for health promotion of Laverack and Labonte’sstudy and definition of slums by UN-HABITAT. Finally, Hare and Noblit’s meta-synthesis was usedto analyze the studies. From 15 selected studies, the most intervention proposed for empowermentwas identified to be “residents’ participation in expressing problems and solutions.” The challenge of“creating a sense of trust and changing some attitudes among residents” was the greatest challengein the studies. Moreover, “improving living conditions and health services” were the most importantoutcomes, “slum residents” and “governments” were the most important actors, and “sanitation”was the most important scope among the studies. Having a comprehensive view to the health andits determinants and attention to the factors beyond neighborhood and health sector would lead tofewer implementation challenges and better intervention choices to health promotion of slum dwellers.

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Comparison of health‑promoting lifestyle and irrational health beliefs in healthy pregnant women and gestational diabetes mellitus

. Atefe Zeinali; . Mahrokh Dolatian; . Padideh Janatiataie; . Jamal Shams; . Malihe Nasiri

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common complication of pregnancy. Thegoal of this study was to compare health‑promoting lifestyles and irrational health beliefs ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common complication of pregnancy. Thegoal of this study was to compare health‑promoting lifestyles and irrational health beliefs in pregnantwomen with GDM and healthy pregnant women.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study was a descriptive causal‑comparative study inwhich 100 eligible GDM women and 100 eligible healthy women were selected through availablesampling in three referral hospitals in Tehran In 2020. In this study, the Health Promoting LifestyleProfile (HPLP) and the Irrational Health Beliefs Scale (IHBS) were used. Data were analyzed usingindependent t‑test and logistic regression by SPSS 16 software.RESULTS: Findings showed that there is a significant relationship between the variables of IHBSand HPLP. For every one unit increase in an IHBS score, the chance of having diabetes increasesby 2.8%. In the case of HPLP, women who exercised well were 7.5% less likely to develop diabetes,and those who took good responsibility were 7.8% less likely to develop diabetes. Furthermore,in independent t‑test, the HPLP variable showed a significant difference between the two groupswith diabetes and healthy individuals (P < 0.001). Furthermore, in comparing the subscales of thisvariable, physical activity (P < 0.0001), self‑fulfillment (P < 0.004), responsibility (P < 0.003), andstress control (P  <  0.001), a significant difference was observed. The results of IHBS researchshowed a significant difference between the two groups of gestational diabetes and healthyindividuals (P < 0.004).CONCLUSION: The results of the present study show the need to identify and focus on irrationalhealth beliefs and health‑promoting lifestyles. Modification of these psychological structures can beuseful in the prevention and management of this chronic disease.

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Postpartum care promotion based on maternal education needs: A mixed study

. Sakineh Nazari; . Sepideh Hajian; . Zohreh Abbasi; . Hamid Alavi Majd

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The postpartum period can be considered as one of the most sensitive stages oflife in different countries; however, it is inadequate in many developed and developing countries.We ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The postpartum period can be considered as one of the most sensitive stages oflife in different countries; however, it is inadequate in many developed and developing countries.We aimed to determine the educational needs of mothers in the postpartum period in Bojnourd.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted in Bojnourd 2019 with two parts: aqualitative part using the content analysis method and a quantitative part using the descriptivecross‑sectional method. Data were collected 45 interviews with women, spouses, and key informants.All content was recorded and fully transcribed on paper. MaxQda10software was used for the datamanagement. A simultaneous descriptive cross‑sectional study was done including 250 pregnantin the third trimester (25.6%), in the first 48 h after delivery (24.4%), in the first 6 months afterdelivery (24.4%), and in the second 6 months after childbirth (25.6%) who referred to five health centersin Bojnourd to receive midwifery care. Quota sampling was performed for each center according tothe population covered, and convenient sampling was done in each center.RESULTS: In the qualitative study, educational needs were classified into four main categories,including “maintaining and restoring physical health,” “sexual health needs,” “mental health needs,”and “educational barriers.” In the quantitative study, according to the findings, the most educationalneeds among mothers were self‑care and breastfeeding and the best time for teaching was duringthe pregnancy, and the best method was face‑to‑face training and the best source of informationwas midwives and gynecologists.CONCLUSION: Attention to the educational needs of each region can be done through varioustraining courses and continuous retraining to promote health provider and should be considered inthe planning officials.

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Health‑care determinants of mortality and recovered cases from COVID‑19: Do heath systems respond COVID‑19 similarly?

. Moslem Soofi; . Behzad Karami Matin; . Ali Kazemi Karyani; . Satar Rezaei; . Shahin Soltani

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The COVID‑19 pandemic has spread rapidly across the world and has currentlyimpacted most countries and territories globally. This study aimed to identify health‑care ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The COVID‑19 pandemic has spread rapidly across the world and has currentlyimpacted most countries and territories globally. This study aimed to identify health‑care determinantsof mortality and recovery rates of COVID‑19 and compare the efficiency of health systems in responseto this pandemic.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional study was conducted using data obtained from theWorld Bank database, that provides free and open access to a comprehensive set of health‑ andsocioeconomic‑related data, by September 12, 2020. An adjusted linear regression model wasapplied to determine predictors of mortality (per 1 million population [MP]) and recovery rates (per 1MP) in the included countries. One‑way analysis of variance was applied to assess health systems’efficiency in response to COVID‑19 pandemic using mortality and recovery rate (output variables)and current health expenditure (CHE) per capita (input variable).RESULTS: Globally, San Marino and Qatar had the highest mortality rate (1237/1 MP) and confirmedcase rate (43,280/1 MP) until September 12, 2020, respectively. Iran had a higher mortality rate (273/1MP vs. 214.5/1 MP) and lower recovery rate (4091.5/1 MP vs. 6477.2/1 MP) compared to countrieswith high CHE per capita. CHE per capita (standardized coefficient [SC] = 0.605, P < 0.001) andpopulation aged 65 years and over as a percentage of total population (SC = −0.79, P < 0.001)significantly predicted recovered cases from COVID‑19 in the included countries.CONCLUSION: This study revealed that countries with higher CHE per capita and higher proportion ofolder adults were more likely to have a higher recovery rate than those with lower ones. Furthermore,our study indicated that health systems with higher CHE per capita statistically had a greater efficiencyin response to COVID‑19 compared to those with lower CHE per capita. More attention to preventivestrategies, early detection, and early intervention is suggested to improve the health system efficiencyin controlling COVID‑19 and its related mortalities worldwide.

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Evaluation of medical student program with the use of a reflective portfolio: A qualitative study

. Arpit Bakulash Patel; . Sachi Vinodkumar Shah

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-11

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The concept of reflective practice is at the center of professional practice, allowinga bridge between theory and practice and learning from our own experiences in an ongoing ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The concept of reflective practice is at the center of professional practice, allowinga bridge between theory and practice and learning from our own experiences in an ongoing process.Understanding what learners need such as regular observation of work, more responsibility, andtechnical and problem‑solving with answers allows the teacher to help learners to progress toindependence in pursing their own learning needs. Therefore, it is important that medical educatorscontinually reflect and evaluate teaching ability to meet learners’ needs and provide evidence tosupport it.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective, qualitative study was carried out using a combinationof questionnaires and observed assessments. The study participants consisted of twenty final‑yearmedical students from King’s College London and took place at a hospital education center in theUK, April 2019. Two educational sessions were delivered by a doctor to the study group and a videorecording was conducted. The educator completed a reflective portfolio using feedback questionnaires,peer observation forms, and observation of the video recording, and the results were analyzed usinga video critique tool.RESULTS: Twenty learner feedback forms were completed, and a peer observation form wascompleted. This allowed a critical analysis of educator performance, reflection, and improvement.This was further solidified by in‑depth analysis and critique of teaching session playback video.DISCUSSION: This study evaluates a medical student teaching program using a reflective portfolio.This study confirms the effectiveness of using a reflective portfolio to enhance the teaching experience.Video analysis can be self‑critical, however this study shows how it is useful to review humanexperience first‑hand, and identifying any specific techniques that create a positive or negativechange can enable educators to improve as time progresses.

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Disaster preparedness in emergency medical service agencies: A systematic review

. Mehdi Beyramijam; . Mehrdad Farrokhi; . Abbas Ebadi; . Gholamreza Masoumi; . Hamid Reza Khankeh

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

Abstract

  The Emergency Medical Services (EMSs) are in the frontline between the health-care systems andpeople in emergencies and disasters. With the increase in the frequency of natural or man-madedisasters ...  Read More The Emergency Medical Services (EMSs) are in the frontline between the health-care systems andpeople in emergencies and disasters. With the increase in the frequency of natural or man-madedisasters around the world, the need for prepared EMS services is increasing. This study aimed toevaluate the current disaster preparedness status of the EMS agencies in the literature and exploringthe key preparedness elements and the strategies to improve the EMS disaster preparedness. Theelectronic database such as PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar was searchedfrom 2000 to 2019. The searching keywords included: “EMS,” “Disaster,” “Preparedness,” “Emergency”“Preparedness,” “Disaster Preparedness,” “Readiness,” and the terms related to “disaster types” wereused in combination with Boolean operators OR and AND. Out of 1412 articles, 7 articles wereincluded in the review. The most important elements of the EMS disaster preparedness include thesize and scope of the incident, surge capacity, planning, communication, training and education,policymaking, financial support, coordination, safety and security, early warning system, disasterresponse experience, and legal considerations. This systematic review showed that the EMS agenciesin the world generally are inadequately prepared for an effective response to major emergencies anddisasters. This study provides valuable information to EMS educators, EMS administrators to adoptand perform appropriate activities to improve the EMS disaster preparedness.

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The relationship between sexual health and personality type in women with epilepsy

. Alieh Sheikhalishahi; . Fereshteh Jahdi; . Hamid Haghani

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Sexual health in the development of the human personality, personal, and socialhealth and in achieving to comfort plays an important role. Women with epilepsy are at high ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Sexual health in the development of the human personality, personal, and socialhealth and in achieving to comfort plays an important role. Women with epilepsy are at high risk ofsexual dysfunction, which has a multifactorial etiology. This study is aimed to investigate the correlationbetween the sexual function of women with epilepsy and personality factors.MATERIALS AND METHODS: this cross‑sectional study was conducted on 100 women with epilepsyreferred to selected centers in Tehran university of medical sciences by using continuous andavailability sampling method between January and March 2014 (Iran) and evaluated with women’ssexual function index questionnaire female sexual function index and NEO‑five‑factor of personalityinventory. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 16 and Pearson correlation test.RESULTS: The mean sexual function overall score in participations was 23.33 ± 2.82 there was asignificant negative correlation between neuroticism and sexual function (P = 0.00, r = −0.03) andwas significant positive correlation between personality traits as extraversion (P = 0.00, r = 0.63),agreeableness (P = 0.008, r = 0.26) and conscientiousness (P = 0.04, r = 0.20) and openness tonew experiences (P = 0.03, r = 0.21) and sexual function in women with epilepsy.CONCLUSIONS: Results indicate that the personality traits can affect on sexual health and sexualfunction of women with epilepsy. Therefore, it is recommended that health‑care providers withassess personality factors in women with epilepsy as a prognostic factor, take steps to preventsexual dysfunction.

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Dose‑dependent efficacy of antioxidant nanoparticles on red blood cells storage

. Saeid Barzegar; . Mohammad Reza Rezvani; . Majid Safa; . Amir Amani; . Alireza Abbaspour; . Aliakbar Pourfathollah; . Javad Hashemi; . Farhad Zaker

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Transfusion of healthy red blood cells (RBCs) after storage is important. One ofthe storage lesions on blood bags is oxidative stress. One way to prevent increased oxidative ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Transfusion of healthy red blood cells (RBCs) after storage is important. One ofthe storage lesions on blood bags is oxidative stress. One way to prevent increased oxidative stressis to use antioxidant nanoparticles (NPs). Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) playan important role in antioxidant defense on RBC. poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) is a nontoxicbiodegradable polymer that is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for drug delivery. Thisstudy aimed to assess dose-dependent efficacy of SOD-CAT-polyethylene glycol -PLGA on RBCsstorage.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using a descriptive study, during 1 month, twenty donors fromBojnourd Blood Donation Center were selected. NPs with different concentrations were injectedinto the satellite bags after directing blood to them. On target days, experiments were performed onthe samples taken. Electrospray was employed to prepare SOD-CAT-PLGA NPs. Twenty packedRBCs were isolated from the whole blood bags by the mechanical method, and certain amount ofproduct was transferred to the satellite bags. On days 1, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35, bags were sampled.Malondialdehyde (MDA), prooxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB), and Annexin V were performed onthe samples taken. The repeated measures analysis with the help of SPSS software version 20was performed on samples.RESULTS: MDA increased in both groups. The maximum increase in test group was seen inconcentration 12 mg (MDA Day 14, test [1.93 ± 0.3], [P MDA < 0.001]). Maximum increase in PABwas seen in concentration 12 mg (from 444 ± 1.7 to 563 ± 2.5) (P PAB = 0.000). Furthermore,PS expression increased in the concentration of 12 mg greater than other concentration inconsecutive (from 5.00 ± 0.8 to 22.26 ± 1.7, [P < 0.001]).CONCLUSION: Evaluation of dose dependency showed that different concentrations of antioxidantNPs affect RBC. This effect can be changed oxidative stress and apoptosis. Using both changes toevaluate functional and toxicity can be helpful.

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Elaboration of indices of the Third Generation of the universities of medical sciences: Status quo assessment of Iran University of Medical Sciences

. Ghobad Ramezani; . Yadolah Zarezadeh; . Zohreh Sohrabi

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Universities are changing from government organizations into third generation. Theaims of this study were to identify the dimensions and components of a third‑generation ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Universities are changing from government organizations into third generation. Theaims of this study were to identify the dimensions and components of a third‑generation universityand assessment of the status quo of Iran University of Medical Sciences.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was mixed method. In the qualitative phase, participantsconsisted of experts of academic management and scholars in third‑generation universities. Thedimensions and components of a third‑generation university were identified by content analysis.A questionnaire was prepared according to dimensions and components with Cronbach’s alpha of0.86. In the quantitative phase, participants consisted of managers and experts of Iran Universityof Medical Sciences; they completed the questionnaire to assess the status quo of Iran University.Data analysis was performed by Colaizzi’s and SPSS software.RESULTS: Third generation of universities of medical sciences has 2 dimensions and 17 components.Software dimension consists of course content, attitude, vision and mission of the university,organizational culture, instructors, students, employees, academic management and leadership,international approach, and social accountability components. Hardware dimension consists oforganizational structure, academic infrastructures, knowledge commercialization, and communicationwith the government, education system, university environment, and university independencecomponents. Status in Iran University of Medical Sciences in hardware dimension was 2.53, and insoftware dimension, it was 2.96.CONCLUSION: Universities are required to respond to the changes in community. Therefore,universities need to change their structures, goals, approaches, perspectives, and intra‑organizationaland extra‑organizational communications to be able to move toward a university which is entrepreneur,skill teaching, wealth generating.

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Diabetic foot infections: Profile and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of bacterial isolates in a tertiary care hospital of Oman

. Mohan Bilikallahalli Sannathimmappa,; . Vinod Nambiar; . Rajeev Aravindakshan; . Mohammad Saleem Jawad Al Khabori; . Asma Hamed Sulaiman Al-Flaiti; . Kadhiya Nasser Mohamed Al-Azri; . Ali Khamis Saif Al-Reesi; . Alya Rashid Mohammad Al Kiyumi

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: In diabetic foot infections (DFIs), the diversity of microbial profile and ever‑changingantibiotic‑resistance patterns emphasize accurate characterization of microbial ...  Read More BACKGROUND: In diabetic foot infections (DFIs), the diversity of microbial profile and ever‑changingantibiotic‑resistance patterns emphasize accurate characterization of microbial profile and antibioticsusceptibility pattern. The aim of the study was to investigate the pathogens associated with DFIand their antibiotic susceptibility patterns.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary‑carehospital, Oman. The socio‑demographic and microbiological profile and antibiotic susceptibilitypatterns of pathogens isolated from patients with DFIs from January 2013 to December 2018 werereviewed. Quantitative and qualitative variables were expressed as mean ± standard deviationand percentages, respectively. A Chi‑square test was used for testing the association betweenmultidrug‑resistant (MDR) organisms and variables.RESULTS: In total, 233 isolates recovered from 133 clinical specimens with an average of1.8 organisms per specimen were included in the study. Fifty‑six and forty-four percent of specimensshowed monomicrobial and polymicrobial growth of two or more organisms, respectively. Thefrequency of isolation was predominant among males (65%). Aerobic Gram‑negative rods werepredominantly (75%) isolated compared to Gram‑positive organisms (25%). Staphylococcus aureusand Pseudomonas aeruginosa were the most frequently isolated Gram‑positive and Gram‑negativebacteria, respectively. Thirty‑eight percent of them were MDR strains. Gram‑negative organismsshowed fairly good susceptibility ranging from 75% to 100% to carbapenems, aminoglycosides,and piperacillin‑tazobactam. While doxycycline and trimethoprim‑sulfamethoxazole showed goodsusceptibility toward Gram‑positive organisms.CONCLUSION: DFIs are often polymicrobial with a predominance of Gram‑negative pathogens. Thisstudy recommends the use of carbapenems and doxycycline for empirical therapy of Gram‑negativeand Gram‑positive bacterial DFIs, respectively.

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Psychomotor abilities in diagnostic upper gastrointestinal endoscopy derived from procedural task analysis techniques and expert review

. Zahra Amouzeshi; . Tahereh Changiz; . Arash Najimi; . Mehdi Saberifiroozi; . Amir Sadeghi; . Mohammad Reza Farzanehfar; . Manouchehr Khoshbaten; . Kourosh Mojtahedi; . Alireza Sima; . Tarang Taghvaei; . Peyman Adibi

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  Abstract:BACKGROUND: Any prediction of a person’s ability to succeed in a motor skill depends on thedetection and accurate measurement of the basic abilities for the performance ...  Read More Abstract:BACKGROUND: Any prediction of a person’s ability to succeed in a motor skill depends on thedetection and accurate measurement of the basic abilities for the performance of that skill. Taskanalysis is needed to determine the psychomotor skills and abilities required to perform an action.This study aimed to determine the components of psychomotor abilities for diagnostic uppergastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy through procedural task analysis (PTA) and expert review.MATERIAL AND METHODS: A multisource, multimethod task analysis was conducted in sixmetropolitan teaching hospitals affiliated with the adult gastroenterology and hepatology trainingcenters in the Islamic Republic of Iran in 2019. Observation, video-recording, and think-aloud protocolswere used while diagnostic upper GI endoscopy was performed. To confirm the accuracy of thePTA, the incorporated the views of the adult gastroenterology and hepatology subspecialty expertsthrough the checklist of PTA assessment criteria. Finally, to determine the psychomotor abilities foreach stage of the procedure, the study incorporated a panel of experts from occupational therapy,physical education, physical medicine, and adult gastroenterology and hepatology subspecialty.RESULTS: Of the 15 psychomotor abilities examined, 11 were determined for upper GI endoscopyprocedure, of which six cases (including visuospatial and perceptual abilities, hand–eye coordination,multilimb coordination, finger dexterity, arm–hand steadiness, and manual dexterity) were the mostfrequent.CONCLUSIONS: PTA techniques and subsequent expert review were used to identify the componentsof psychomotor abilities for diagnostic upper GI endoscopy. It is suggested that PTA is performedfor other procedures, and after psychomotor abilities are specified, proportional tests are developed.

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Analyzing the relationship between learning styles (Kolb and VARK) and creativity with the academic achievement of dental students

. Mahdokht Taheri; . Mehran Falahchai; . Mandana Javanak; . Yasamin Babaee Hemmati; . Mehdi Dasht Bozorgi

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: One of the influential factors in students’ learning is their learning styles which havethe capacity to change. Furthermore, creativity is considered one of the essential ...  Read More BACKGROUND: One of the influential factors in students’ learning is their learning styles which havethe capacity to change. Furthermore, creativity is considered one of the essential cognitive features ofhumans. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the relationship between learning styles (Kolb and VARK)and emotional creativity with the academic achievement of dental students.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this descriptive‑analytical study, the statistical population includeddental students of the third semester and above (250 persons). The data collection tools includedKolb and VARK learning style questionnaires, Averill emotional creativity questionnaire, the totalGrade Point Average (GPA), and the GPA over the past two semesters of students to measureacademic achievement. The data were analyzed using the measures of the descriptive (mean andstandard deviation) and the inferential statistics tests including one‑sample t‑test, independent t‑test,correlation coefficients of Pearson, and Eta squared.RESULTS: Based on Kolb and VARK learning styles, the majority of the students had accommodatinglearning style (64%) and read‑write style (31.6%) and also were single‑styled (80.4%). No significantrelationship was found between the learning styles (Kolb and VARK) and creativity with academicachievement. The students scored higher than average in emotional creativity and all of its threeelements. Moreover, there was a significant relationship between emotional creativity and the genderof the students (P = 0.01). Female students showed higher emotional creativity (97.26 ± 10.34)compared to the male students (94.24 ± 8.96).CONCLUSION: There was no significant relationship between learning styles and emotional creativityof the students with their academic achievement. The accommodating and read‑write learning styleswere more prevalent among students and they showed high emotional creativity.

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Students’ beliefs about smokeless tobacco use in Chabahar city: A qualitative study using focus groups

. Esmaeil Fattahi; . Mahnaz Solhi; . Zahra Sadat Manzari; . Abolhasan Afkar; . Javad Yoosefi Lebni; . Ayoob Rastegar

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Smokeless tobacco use is a public health problem. This study explored students’beliefs about smokeless tobacco use in Chabahar, Iran.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The qualitative ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Smokeless tobacco use is a public health problem. This study explored students’beliefs about smokeless tobacco use in Chabahar, Iran.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The qualitative study was conducted using three Focused GroupDiscussions among 24 students aged 12–14 years in Chabahar City. Focus Group Guide Morganwas used. Qualitative Content Analysis was used to explore and extract codes and themes. Thedata analysis process was carried out in accordance with the stages of proposed by Graneheim andLundman. Guba and Lincoln criteria were used for evaluating research transferability.RESULTS: Two main themes emerged from the analysis including; beliefs of being useful andharmful. Each of these themes is divided into subthemes with useful or harmful physical andpsychological beliefs. Four subthemes included: beliefs of being useful physically, beliefs of beinguseful psychologically, harmful beliefs physically, and harmful beliefs psychologically.CONCLUSIONS: One of the more significant findings to emerge from this study is that many studentsmentioned the benefits of using smokeless tobacco to reduce toothache, relieve headaches, and badbreath. This information can be used to develop targeted interventions aimed at reducing smokelesstobacco consumption. However, more research on this topic needs to be undertaken before theassociation between kinds of beliefs and smokeless tobacco consumption is more clearly understood.

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Improving burnout and well‑being among medicine residents: Impact of a grassroots intervention compared to a formal program curriculum

. Amy J. Sheer; . Irene M. Estores; . Rachel Nickels; . Nila Radhakrishnan; . Dianne L. Goede; . Lazarus K. Mramba; . Margaret C. Lo

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

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: With growing resident burnout, Accreditation Council for Graduate MedicalEducation issued new requirements for program interventions to optimize resident well‑being. Littleevidence ...  Read More BACKGROUND: With growing resident burnout, Accreditation Council for Graduate MedicalEducation issued new requirements for program interventions to optimize resident well‑being. Littleevidence exists on how to best teach resiliency to residents. This study assesses the impact ofboth a grassroots intervention and formal resiliency curriculum on resident burnout and well‑being.MATERIALS AND METHODS: From November 2016 to August 2017, residents in a large InternalMedicine Residency Program participated in grassroots wellness interventions from the resident‑ledGator Council in Gainesville, FL USA. From August 2017 to June 2018, residents participated ina formal program‑driven resiliency curriculum. Wellness interventions included monthly morningreports, bimonthly workshops, and biannual noon conferences. Pre‑ and postintervention MaslachBurnout Inventory (MBI) and Physician Well‑Being Index (PWBI) assessed the effect of bothinterventions on resident burnout and well‑being. Statistical analyses used Student’s t‑test, Fisher’sexact tests, and linear regression model.RESULTS: One hundred and twenty‑two residents participated in grassroots interventions. Onehundred and seventeen (87 residents, 35 students) participated in formal curriculum. Mean MBIscores for all three sections did not differ between pre ‑and postgrassroots intervention (emotionalexhaustion [EE] P = 0.46; depersonalization [DP] P = 0.43; personal accomplishment [PA] P = 0.73])or between pre‑ and postcurriculum (EE P = 0.20; DP P = 0.40; PA P = 0.51). Students scoredhigher burnout levels compared to residents in EE (P = 0.001) and PA (P = 0.02). Pre‑ versuspostcurriculum PWBI scores did not differ among residents (P = 0.20), while PWBI scores improvedamong students (P = 0.01).CONCLUSIONS: This study found no improvement in resident burnout or well‑being from abottom‑up and top‑down approach. Our results imply the need for an early wellness curriculumto improve student well‑being given their higher level of burnout. System‑wide efforts are vital tocombat physician burnout.

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The mediating role of self‑compassion in the relationship between positive reactivity, negative reactivity, and perfectionism with disordered eating

. Esmaeil Mousavi Asl; . Leila Abdi; . Amirali Moghaddam Sadegh; . Forouzan Behrouzian

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Individuals with disordered eating are at an increased of having one or moreadditional risks for comorbid disorders, such as anxiety disorder, depressive disorder, and insomnia.Therefore, ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Individuals with disordered eating are at an increased of having one or moreadditional risks for comorbid disorders, such as anxiety disorder, depressive disorder, and insomnia.Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the mediating role of self‑compassion in therelationship between positive reactivity, negative reactivity, and perfectionism with disordered eating.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study method was descriptive‑correlational throughstructural equation modeling (SEM). The present study population included all students of theUniversity of Tehran in the city of Tehran in 2018–2019. A total of 302 students were selectedby convenience sampling method and completed questionnaires on eating attitudes test‑8,self‑compassion scale (short form), eating disorder inventory‑perfectionism scale, and Perth emotionalreactivity scale. The SEM path analysis and Pearson correlation coefficient were conducted to analyzethe obtained data in SPSS‑23 and Lisrel‑8.80.RESULTS: The finding of the path analysis showed that self‑compassion acts as a mediating  role inthe relationship of disordered eating with positive and negative emotional reactivity and perfectionism.Only the direct effect coefficient of general positive reactivity on disordered eating was not significant.CONCLUSION: Based on the results of this study, self‑compassion can serve as a protective factoragainst negative emotional reactivity and perfectionism. Therefore, self‑compassion can be consideredin the development of prevention and treatment programs for disordered eating.

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Comparing the effects of teach‑back method, multimedia and blended training on self‑care and social support in patients with heart failure: A randomized clinical trial

. Maryam Karami Salaheddin Kola; . Hedayat Jafari; . Jamshid Yazdani Charati; . Vida Shafipour

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

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The knowledge level of caregivers and their support for patients can affect theself‑care of patients with heart failure (HF). The present study was conducted to compare ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The knowledge level of caregivers and their support for patients can affect theself‑care of patients with heart failure (HF). The present study was conducted to compare the effectsof teach‑back, multimedia, and blended training methods on self‑care and social support in patientswith HF and on knowledge in their caregivers.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a randomized clinical trial, a total of 150 HF patient‑caregiver dyadswere randomly allocated into three equally sized training groups, using a simple number table (n = 50). Thestudy was conducted between May to October 2018 in Sari, northern Iran. In the teach‑back, multimediaand blended training groups, patient‑caregiver dyads participated in 20–30‑min training sessions heldface‑to‑face, using digital video disc (DVD) and combination of teach‑back and DVD on 4 consecutivedays at the bedside of hospitalized patients in coronary care unit, respectively. Data were collected usingthe European Heart Failure Self‑Care Behaviour Scale and the multidimensional scale of perceived socialsupport for patients. Caregivers’ level of knowledge was measured using the HF Knowledge Scale. Datawere measured on the first day of hospitalization, 1 day before discharge and 4 and 8 weeks after patients’discharge. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 18 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA).RESULTS: All three educational methods improved self‑care behaviors in patients. The comparison ofself‑care behavior scores in patients with HF among the three groups at different time points showedno statistically significant differences (P > 0.05), except 1 day before discharge (P = 0.04). Therewere no statistically‑significant differences between the teach‑back, multimedia and the blendedtraining group in terms of perceived social support at any of the four‑time points (P > 0.05). All threetraining methods improved the level of knowledge of caregivers. However, the score in the blendedtraining groups was higher than the other groups (P < 0.001).CONCLUSION: According to the results of the present study, it seems that all three educationalinterventions can improve self‑care behaviors in HF patients and increase knowledge in theircaregivers. However, using the blended training method was associated with better outcomes.

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Assessing the compliance of educational curricula of selected disciplines with the content standards of cancer‑related palliative care

. Zahra Ebadinejad; . Maryam Rassouli; . Ali Fakhr‑Movahedi

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-13

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Management of cancer complications requires the provision of palliative care as acomprehensive care by the main and trained members of this method of care. The aim of the ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Management of cancer complications requires the provision of palliative care as acomprehensive care by the main and trained members of this method of care. The aim of the presentstudy was to assess the compliance of educational curricula of selected disciplines with the contentstandards of cancer‑related palliative care.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this descriptive–comparative study, the content standards ofpalliative care for nurses, physicians, and social workers were identified based on the World HealthOrganization guideline and Oxford Textbook of Palliative Nursing. For this purpose, a separatechecklist was prepared for the disciplines with different dimensions. Then the face and contentvalidity of the checklists were checked. Finally, we examined the coordination between selectedcurricula available on the website of Education Deputy of the Ministry of Health, Treatment andMedical Education with the dimensions of the checklists.RESULTS: All three curricula in most domains were relevant with the content standards, but therewas the biggest education need in the areas related to the dimensions of “planning and educational,”“educating physician in palliative care,” and “considering patient preferences” in these disciplines.CONCLUSIONS: To meet the educational needs, it is suggested to change some course topics,hold training courses, or joint workshops.

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Investigating the challenges and barriers of palliative care delivery in Iran and the World: A systematic review study

. Mohammad Salimi Amroud; . Pouran Raeissi; . Seyed‑Masoud Hashemi; . Nahid Reisi; . Seyed‑Ahmad Ahmadi

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  Palliative care and terminal patients care centers have an important role in improving the physicaland psychological state of the patient and their families and increasing their satisfaction ...  Read More Palliative care and terminal patients care centers have an important role in improving the physicaland psychological state of the patient and their families and increasing their satisfaction and careproviders. A literature search of online databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of science, Cochranelibrary, and Google Scholar) was searched from January 1, 2000, to the end of April 2019, by usingthe appropriate English keywords. Furthermore, IranMedex, Barkat, and Magiran databases weresearched for the Persian articles. We used Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research checklistto evaluate the articles quality. From 1328 articles, 166 were reviewed in depth with 13 satisfyingour inclusion criteria. The findings of this study revealed a wide range of barriers and challenges topalliative care delivery. The identified barriers were: Cultural, social and organizational barriers, lackof resources, equipment and financing, attitudes and cultures, barriers related to the patient and thepatient’s family, related barriers providers, time and money, education, communication challenges,policies, insurance problems, safety, and crisis management. The results of the studies showed thatthere are various barriers and challenges such as economic, cultural, social, organizational, andcommunication related to palliative care. Given the identified barriers and challenges, it is suggestedthat to improve the delivery of palliative care, the health system policy‑makers and planners considera resource‑appropriate and culturally appropriate framework for palliative care delivery.

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Evaluation of psychometric properties of the maastricht upper extremity questionnaire (MUEQ) in iranian computer users

. Mohammad Ghasemi; . Tahereh Kamalikhah; . Mahmood Salesi; . Fatemeh Rahmati

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Measurement of the essential risk factors for work‑related musculoskeletal disordersis a fundamental step in predicting the problem and identifying high‑risk individuals. ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Measurement of the essential risk factors for work‑related musculoskeletal disordersis a fundamental step in predicting the problem and identifying high‑risk individuals. In this regard,Maastricht upper extremity questionnaire (MUEQ) has not been validated in Iran. This study aimedto develop a valid and reliable Persian version of MUEQ.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this descriptive study, the computer users employed in agovernmental informatics administration in Tehran, Iran, were included during the end of 2018 andearly 2019. Face and content validity of the MUEQ was conducted, and a six‑part questionnairewas provided. The reliability of the questionnaire was obtained using Cronbach’s α and test–retest.Concurrent validity was assessed with Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ). Exploratory andconfirmatory factor analysis, comparison test of independent mean, internal consistency coefficient,test–retest, and Pearson correlation were carried out using the AMOS and SPSS 22 software.RESULTS: Participants consisted of 282 computer users (110 males) with a mean age of35.17 ± 7.65 years. The mean duration of computer use in a working day was 6.68 ± 2.10 h witha range of 1–12 h. The most prevalent symptoms were existed in the neck (39.1%), back (31.0%),and lower back (30.3%) areas. KMO test and Bartlett’s test of sphericity showed that a significantcorrelation existed among questions. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of the questionnaire variedfrom 0.61 to 0.83 and test–retest coefficient was higher than 0.7.   Correlation coefficient wasbetween NMQ and body posture (r = 0.23, P = 0.004) and between NMQ and work environment(r = 0.28, P = 0.000). Evaluations related to the construct validity and concurrent validity demonstratedthat the questionnaire has acceptable construct validity. Six factors of the MUEQ in Root MeanSquared Error Approximation (RMSEA) index (0.062) were acceptable and satisfactory in ParsimonyComparative Fit Index (PCFI), Comparative Fit Index (CFI), Normed Fit Index (NFI), and ParsimonyGoodness of Fit Index (PGFI) (0.732, 0.8000, 0.680, and 0.680, respectively).CONCLUSIONS: The Persian version of the MUEQ represented a satisfactory validity and reliabilityand was suitable for computer users in the assessment of their risk factors of musculoskeletalcomplaints.

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Iranian University students’ stressors and coping strategies: A qualitative study

. Fatemeh Khademian; . Azam Aslani; . Ramin Ravangard; . Mohammad Nami; . Samaneh Abbasi; . Peivand Bastani

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

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Although a certain amount of stress is essential, excessive stress can adverselyinfluence the physiological and mental health. Hence, this study aims to assess common stressorsand ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Although a certain amount of stress is essential, excessive stress can adverselyinfluence the physiological and mental health. Hence, this study aims to assess common stressorsand coping strategies among university students.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This qualitative study was conducted from October to November2019 in Iran. Twelve students were recruited based on purposeful sampling to participate focus groupdiscussions (FGD). Transcripts of three sessions of FGD were analyzed applying Graneheim andLundman (2004) approach, and a thematic network was applied to illustrate the findings.RESULTS: The finding emerged 78 codes, 14 subthemes, and 4 main themes. Stressors wereclassified in two main themes, including individual stressors and the social ones. Behavioral strategiesand the cognitive ones were among two categories of coping strategies. According to the thematicnetwork, a full stress student affecting the precious stressors and the social, cultural, and the economiccontext may manage his/her stress applying the coping strategies.CONCLUSION: The findings revealed that university students experienced different kinds of stress,and usually, they do not apply right coping strategies. It is important to establish stress counselingprograms for university students. Besides, it is proposing to provide 1st year university students withworkshops about the cause of stress and effective coping strategies.

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Medical students’ perception on the usefulness of online formative assessment: A single‑center, mixed‑method, pilot study

. Himel Mondal; . Manas Ranjan Sahoo; . Ritushri Samantaray; . Shaikat Mondal

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Distance digital learning is newly implemented in the Indian medical institutions.Formative assessment is also conducted online. In this context, this study aimed at finding ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Distance digital learning is newly implemented in the Indian medical institutions.Formative assessment is also conducted online. In this context, this study aimed at finding theperception on the usefulness of online formative assessment along with online classes among1st‑year medical students.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross‑sectional, observational study was conducted in August2020. The students were exposed to online classes and online formative assessments with fivemultiple choice questions for a period of 4 months before the conduct of the survey. An online surveywas conducted (both quantitative and qualitative data collection) to ascertain the perception on theonline formative assessment quiz.RESULTS: A total of 36 (14 female, 21 male, 1 did not disclose sex) 1st‑year medical students with amean age of 19.97 ± 1.16 years participated in the survey. The majority of the students agreed that theonline quiz was a valuable learning activity and has potential to replace the face‑to‑face assessment.The online quizzes provided them feedback of classroom learning and helped in identifying the weakarea and motivated students to the study. The qualitative data showed that students like to get agreater number of questions and also like to participate in chapter wise multiple quizzes in spare time.CONCLUSION: First‑year medical students considered the online formative assessments quizcoupled with the online classes as a valuable learning activity. It provided them feedback of learningand a motivation for further study on the topic. They like to participate in anonymous quiz with agreater number of questions with online classes. The finding of this pilot study should be furtherevaluated with multicenter study with more participants.

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