Copyright (c) 2026 Journal of Nursing Education of Nepal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Scientific Publication among Nurses in Nepal: Emerging Trends, Opportunities, and Future Directions
Attitude of Health Science Students Towards Working in Rural Areas from Colleges of Kathmandu
Introduction: The lack of healthcare professionals has been a drawback for the rural health system in Nepal. Students in the final year of health science studies represent the future workforce in the healthcare sector. Understanding final year students’ attitudes can help improve rural health workforce planning. This study aimed to assess the attitude towards working in rural areas among undergraduate health science students. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 193 undergraduate final year health science students studying MBBS, BNS, Pharmacy, and BPH in Maharajgunj Medical Campus, Maharajgunj Nursing Campus, and the Central Department of Public Health. A consecutive sampling technique was used to select the sample. Data was collected with a self-administered questionnaire and analyzed with Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 using descriptive statistics, frequency, percent, mean, standard deviation, median, quartiles, and range, and inferential statistics, Chi-square and Fisher exact tests for association between attitude and selected variables. Results: The study found that 83.4% of respondents had a positive attitude and 16.6% respondents had a negative attitude toward working in rural areas. A significant association was found between attitude and birthplace (p=0.036), fathers’ education (p=0.006), mothers’ education (p=0.047), and motivation from relatives in rural health service (p=0.010). Conclusion: Majority of students had a positive attitude toward rural practice. While most students recognize the importance of working in rural areas, a considerable number of students have a negative attitude towards serving people who live in rural areas. There is a needs to motivate students through near to graduation through the provision of facilities and the strong implementation of the scholarship bonding policy by government.
Involvement of Spouse in Postnatal Care among Mothers in Maternal and Child Health Clinic of a Referral Hospital of Nepal
Introduction: The postnatal period, lasting from childbirth to six weeks, is a critical time for the mother as well as newborn. Spouse involvement in postnatal care is a crucial factor that supports maternal and newborn wellbeing. Increased husband participation improves maternal recovery, newborn care practices, and utilization of health services. This study is intended to assess spouse involvement in postnatal care among mothers in maternal and child health (MCH) clinics in a referral hospital. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 95 mothers of under one-year children at the MCH clinic of Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital (TUTH), Kathmandu Nepal. Data was collected by using nonprobability, purposive sampling techniques through face-to-face interviews with semi-structured 5-point Likert. Data was analyzed in SPSS version 20, applying descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: this study showed that 54.7% mothers were aged between 25–30 years. Almost all (98.9%) spouses had high involvement and only 1.1% had low involvement. Mean involvement score was 112 ± 13.62. High involvement was observed in nutritional support (67.4%), reminding them to take iron & calcium supplementation (66.3%), assisting with newborn night care (71.6%), and breastfeeding support (66.3%). However, involvement was comparatively lower in hygiene-related activities: reminding pad change (36.8%) and genital hygiene (31.6%). Conclusion: Almost all spouses of mothers of the under one-year children were highly involved in postnatal care, especially more support found in maternal nutrition, rest, newborn care, and emotional support. Statistically significant association was found between level of spouse involvement in postnatal care and mode of delivery.
Caregiving Burden of Family Caregivers of Older Adults with Disability and Perceived Social Support Residing in a Community - A Pilot Study
Introduction: As family is the backbone of providing long-term care for their older adults in Nepal. Prolong caring responsibilities put the family caregivers in a state of exhaustion. One of the elements of that has potential of reducing the effect of stressors among family caregivers is social support. This study aimed to assess the caregiving burden of family caregivers of older adults and their social support status in Toka Municipality of Kathmandu district. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted for assessing caregiving burden of family caregivers and their social support status after completion of translation English version of six-item cognitive impairment test (6-CIT) questionnaires and social support rating scale (SSRS) into Nepalese language. Non-probability, convenience sampling technique was used while selecting 60 family caregivers of older adults. Data was collected using a structured interview schedule at participants’ residences between September and October 2021. Results: This study depicted that 23.3% of family caregivers of older adults had reported caregiving burden. The content validity index of Nepalese version of 6-CIT and SSRS were 0.90 and 0.75, as measured after consulting with 5 experts’ scoring in average. Likewise, 80% of family caregivers perceived moderate level of social support and its calculated Cronbach alpha value was 0.794. Conclusion: Nearly one-fourth of family caregivers have caregiving burden and nearly four fifth of them perceive moderate level of social support. The Nepalese version of the 6-CIT and SSRS have the acceptable content validity index as well as SSRS has high Cronbach Alpha value. These findings directed the researcher for conducting the main study on factors associated caregiving burden of family caregivers in Nepal.
Etiology, Clinical Profile, and Exacerbation-Associated Factors Among Patients with Bronchiectasis Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital in Nepal: A Cross-Sectional Study
Background: Bronchiectasis is a chronic respiratory disease characterized by irreversible bronchial dilatation, recurrent infections, and persistent airway inflammation, leading to substantial morbidity. In low- and middle-income countries, post-infectious etiologies remain predominant; however, data on the clinical profile and factors associated with disease exacerbations in Nepal are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the etiology, clinical and radiological characteristics, and exacerbation-associated factors among patients with bronchiectasis attending a tertiary care hospital in Nepal. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional observational study was conducted among patients with bronchiectasis confirmed on high-resolution computed tomography of the chest. Sociodemographic variables, clinical features, comorbidities, past infectious history, and radiological findings were collected using a structured proforma. Exacerbation frequency was categorized and analyzed in relation to clinical, nutritional, and socio-economic factors. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and associations were assessed using the chi-square test, with a p-value <0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 180 patients were included, predominantly aged 60–80 years, with a slight female predominance. Post-infectious causes, particularly previous pulmonary tuberculosis and recurrent childhood respiratory infections, were the most common etiologies. Chronic cough, dyspnea, sputum production, chest pain, and hemoptysis were frequently reported. Multilobar disease was observed in most patients. Frequent exacerbations were significantly associated with low and middle socio-economic status (p<0.001) and abnormal body mass index, particularly underweight and overweight categories (p=0.037). No significant associations were observed with smoking status, alcohol use, dyspnea severity, or prior tuberculosis. Conclusion: Bronchiectasis in Nepal predominantly affects older adults and is largely driven by post-infectious etiologies. Socio-economic status and nutritional factors are key determinants of exacerbation frequency, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis, nutritional optimization, and context-specific management strategies in resource-limited settings.
Quality of Life among Working and Non-Working Women in a Community
Introduction: Job is considered one of the most essential factors for determining women`s quality of life. However, due to dual responsibilities of women i.e., job and traditional house chore roles, they often suffer from physical as well as mental problems. Many factors may influence quality of life of women amongst them work is the important one. The aim of the study was to compare the quality of life of working and non-working women. Methods: Descriptive cross sectional research design was used. Sampling method was convenient sampling technique with total sample 140 women, among them 70 working and 70 non-working women of Rampur municipality. Face to face interview was taken to collect data using quality of life measurement tool developed by WHO (WHOQOL-BREF). Descriptive statistic (frequencies, percentage mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistics (chi square and independent t test) were used to analyze data. Results: Working women had high mean score in all domain WHOQOL-BREF. There was significance difference in mean score of physical (working 62.19±13.30, non-working women (59.59±14.43), (p<0.001)., psychological (working 56.85±14.43, non-working women 51.90±13.77, (p=0,013) and environmental (working 52.50±12.93,49.51 ± 14.30 with p value 0.034) domains in working and non-working women respectively. Conclusion: Working women have a better quality of life compared to non-working women. Moreover, literate women reported a better quality of life than illiterate. Hence, strengthening initiatives that improve women's education and skill levels, enabling them to access better employment opportunities, which significantly contribute to their quality of life.
Awareness and Practice on Breastfeeding among Mothers Attending at Maternal and Child Health Clinic in a Tertiary Hospital
Background: Breast milk is the natural food for babies which provides all the nutrients and energy that infant needs for the first few months of life. Child morbidity and mortality can be reduced through the proper ways of breastfeeding. So this study aims to find out the awareness and practice on breastfeeding among mothers attending at maternal and child health clinic in Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital. Methods:A descriptive cross sectional study design was used. Non probability purposive sampling technique was used to collect data from 146 mothers. Data were collected through in-person interview technique by using semi structured questionnaire. Data were computed and analyzed with SPSS version 20 for descriptive and inferential statistics to find out the result. Results: Higher number of the respondents (64.4%) had good awareness and more than half (58.2%) of the respondents had given exclusive breastfeeding for six months. Prelacteal feeding was practiced by 13.6% and initiation of breastfeeding within 1 hour of delivery by 39% of the respondents, 28.1% of the respondents had practiced expressed breast milk feeding. Statistically significant association was found between maternal education level and the awareness on breastfeeding (p=0.018). Conclusion: The study concluded that, though the higher numbers of the respondents had good awareness, all of them had not practiced exclusive breastfeeding. Prelacteal feeding was still practiced by few mothers. So the results point to the necessity of educating women to practice breastfeeding correctly.
Practice Regarding Biomedical Waste Management Among Supporting Staff in a Hospital
Background: Biomedical waste has high potential for infections and injuries. Effective biomedical waste management is vital in the health care delivery system, and it could possibly be achieved through standard practices with safety measures. As supporting staff plays a significant role in proper waste management, this study aims to assess the level of practice regarding biomedical waste management among supporting staff in a hospital. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 109 supporting staff working in the general wards of Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital (TUTH). The consecutive sampling technique was used to collect data. After ethical approval Data were collected by using a structured interview schedule within 2 weeks and was analyzed by using SPSS version 20. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the personal characteristics. Inferential statistics were used to measure the association between the level of practice and selected variables. Results: The study findings revealed that the majority of the respondents (84.4%) had adequate practice regarding biomedical waste management, 15.6% had moderately adequate practice, and none of them had inadequate practice. A statistically significant association was found between the level of practice and age (p=0.003), working area (p=0.001), duration of work experience (p=0.034), and history of needle stick injury (p=0.045) of the respondents. Conclusion: This study concludes that more than four-fifths of the supporting staff had adequate practice regarding biomedical waste management. Therefore, it is recommended to conduct refresher training program for supporting staff in frequent time interval to enhance and sustain safe practices.
Coping Strategies in Post-menopausal Women of Selected Wards of Lalitpur Metropolitan City
Background: Menopause is the permanent end of menstruation, marking the natural biological conclusion of a woman’s reproductive years. In Nepal menopause is considered as a normal phenomenon, women themselves may not seek medical help and not use coping strategies to alleviate complication and issues associated with menopause. Therefore, this study aims to assess the coping strategies in postmenopausal women. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional research design was used to assess coping strategies in postmenopausal women of 45-60 years of Lalitpur Metropolitan city. One stage cluster sampling was used. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews using the standard tool Brief COPE scale. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used to analyze data. Results: Out of 273 postmenopausal women, mean age was 53.4± 3.8years. 29–33% postmenopausal women reported moderate to high use of problem based coping strategies. In contrast, several emotion-based coping strategies showed higher utilization, particularly learning to live with the situation (78.75%), accepting reality (70.33%), and engaging in distraction activities (69.96%). Conclusion: It is concluded that post-menopausal women mainly used emotion based coping strategies, while problem-based approaches are less utilized. Coping was not significantly influenced by age, education and reproductive factors, but was positively associated with employment and physical activity.
Social Media Use and Loneliness Among Older Adults in Kathmandu
Background: Older individuals are mostly susceptible to loneliness and social media platforms provide a means for older adults to maintain social and emotional connections contributing to improved mental health outcomes. Thus, this study aims to examine the relationship between social media use and loneliness among older adults. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 138 older adults using purposive sampling technique (aged 65+) in Kathmandu Metropolitan City. Data was collected via face-to-face interview using a semi-structured questionnaire and the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Loneliness Scale. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 20. Results: About two third of the respondents (71%) were aged between 65–75, with males representing 56.5%. The majority (77.5%) were married and 61.6% belonged to the Bramhan/ Chhetri ethnic group. Roughly 64% had basic education, 58% reported having enough resources for the year, and 96.4% lived in joint families with perceived family support. About 45% of respondents experience a high level of loneliness, while 24.6% report very high levels. The overall mean loneliness score is 25.10 ± 7.6 indicating moderate loneliness across the group. Messenger use was significantly associated with higher loneliness levels (p = 0.018), whereas no significant association was observed between daily social media use and loneliness (p = 0.143). Conclusion: This study concludes that social media use is highly prevalent among older adults with most respondents engaging in daily use for communication and social interaction. The study identified that specific patterns of social media use, particularly frequent use and engagement with platforms such as Messenger, were significantly associated with increased loneliness which may not adequately fulfill the emotional and social needs of older adults. Instead, certain usage patterns may contribute to feelings of isolation. Therefore, it is essential to promote balanced and meaningful use of social media alongside strengthening real-life social support systems.
Knowledge regarding Breastfeeding among Pregnant Women Attending Tertiary Care Center of Kathmandu: An Observational Study
Introduction: Breastfeeding is the optimal source of nutrition for infant growth and development. It offers nutritional, immunological, behavioral, and economic benefits and strengthens mother– infant bonding. Adequate knowledge during pregnancy is essential to promote breastfeeding practices. This study aimed to assess the breastfeeding knowledge of pregnant women attending a tertiary care center. Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 350 pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic of a tertiary care center. Women were selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a self-developed, structured Nepali questionnaire. Ethical approval and written informed consent were obtained. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20, with descriptive statistics and chi-square tests . Results: Most of the pregnant women; 303(86.6%) were 20 to less than 35 years of age, 165(47.1%) were Brahman/Chhetri ethnicity, 215(61.42%) live in joint family, 191(54.6%) were homemaker. Nearly half, 162(46.3%), had secondary level education, and 295 (84.28%) had sufficient income for one year. Over 45.1% were primigravida, 218(62.3%) had four or more antenatal checkups, and 270(77.1%) planned their pregnancy. About the level of knowledge, 134(38.3%) had a high level, 113(32.3%) had a moderate level, and 103(29.4%) had a low level of knowledge. Breastfeeding knowledge showed a statistically significant association with residence, ethnicity, women’s educational level, husbands’ educational level, gravida, number of antenatal care check-ups, and sources of information. Conclusions: About one-third of pregnant women reported an adequate level of breastfeeding knowledge. Therefore, targeted programs and educational interventions are needed to improve breastfeeding knowledge and promote breastfeeding practices.
Mindfulness State among Undergraduate Students in Selected Constituent Nursing Campuses, Institute of Medicine, Tribhuvan University
Background: Mindfulness being more helpful to improve students’ psychological well-being and enhance their academic performance. Therefore, the study was conducted Introduction: Mindfulness has been shown to enhance students’ emotional well-being, self-awareness, and overall psychological resilience, thereby contributing to improved academic performance. The study aimed to assess the state of mindfulness among undergraduate nursing students in selected constituent nursing campuses of the Institute of Medicine, Tribhuvan University. Methods: A cross-sectional research design was adopted among 143 Bachelor of Science in Nursing students of the 1st , 2nd, and 3rd years from Maharajgunj Nursing Campus and Pokhara Nursing Campus, selected through a probability proportional to size sampling method, using the validated and pretested english version of the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire for data collection. Ethical approval obtained from Institutional Review Committee of Tribhuvan University, Institution of Medicine. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, percentage, median, and quartiles, as well as chi-square to measure associations. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.0 was used to analyze the data. Results: More than half of the respondents (52.4%) had sufficient mindfulness while nearly half (47.6%) demonstrated insufficient mindfulness state. No association between mindfulness state and socio-demographic variables observed. The significant association between mindfulness state and habit of self-practiced meditation and physical exercise (p =0.032 and 0.018 respectively). Conclusion: Half of the respondents had sufficient state of mindfulness. Majority of the respondents had higher score on the aspects of mindfulness on observing, acting with awareness and describing whereas lower on non-judging and non-reactivity. Significant association between mindfulness state and self-practiced habit of physical-exercise and meditation. Hence, it is need to prioritize physical –exercise and meditation among undergraduate nursing students for sufficient mindfulness state.
Relationship between Parenting Style and Career Decision-Making among Higher Secondary School Students
Background: Parenting style reflects parental control and the emotional climate of parent-child relationships, while career decision-making involves the process of choosing a career path. Effective parenting is crucial for adolescents’ positive growth, which can influence their career decision-making. This study assessed the relationship between parenting style and career decision-making among higher secondary school students. Methodology: A quantitative cross-sectional design was adopted. The study population consisted of higher secondary level students from a school in Rupandehi. A probability systematic random sampling technique was used to collect the 170 sample size. Self-administered standard validated tools, Diana Baumrind’s Parenting Style scale, and Kirandeep Singh’s Career Decision-Making scale were used. Descriptive statistics, including frequency, mean, median, and standard deviation, and Inferential statistics, Karl Pearson’s correlation coefficient, were used to analyze the data. Findings: The mean age of respondents was 17.7+ 0.8 SD. More than half (57.1%) were male. 78.8% resides in urban residences and belong to a nuclear family (75.3%). Authoritative parenting was the most common parenting style, and most of the respondents (67.6%) of the respondents showed an average level of career decision-making ability. Correlation analysis showed that authoritarian parenting style had a statistically significant positive relationship with career decision-making (r = 0.640, p = 0.046). Conclusion: There is a positive correlation between authoritarian parenting style and the career decision-making ability of the respondents. So authoritarian parenting is recommended for improving the ability of the children in taking decision regarding future goals. The authoritative and permissive style of parenting style should be discouraged.
Knowledge regarding Thalassemia among Parents of Thalassemic Children at a Tertiary Hospital, Province 2
Introduction: Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder requiring lifelong treatment and care. Parents play a great role in the care of these children. Thus, this descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the knowledge of Thalassemia among the parents with children of Thalassemia. Methods: Purposive sampling technique was used to collect data from 40 parents of children with Thalassemia attending a Tertiary Hospital, during April to May 2022 and meeting the eligibility criteria. Data collection was done through interview using self-constructed, semi structured questionnaire with the help of research assistant after ethical approval from IRC, TU IOM. The findings were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science version-16. Descriptive statistics (mean, frequency, percentage) and inferential statistics (Chi-square) were conducted. Results: Findings revealed that 45.0% of the children were more than 5 years of age, 60.0% of the children were male and 77.5% of the children were diagnosed at the age of less than one year. 75.0% of the parents of children with thalassemia had inadequate and 25.0% of the respondents had adequate knowledge regarding Thalassemia. There was no association between age of respondent, relation with child, religion, residence, family type, education, occupation and income with level of knowledge. Conclusions: Based on the findings it is concluded that majority of the respondents had inadequate knowledge regarding Thalassemia, especially in the areas like causes of thalassemia, carrier status, regular follow up investigations, treatment modalities and prevention.
Emotional Intelligence and Job Satisfaction Among Nurses of a Tertiary Hospital
Background: Emotional intelligence (EI) is increasingly recognized as a determinant of occupational outcome in nursing, including job satisfaction, staff retention, and quality of patient care. Despite its relevance, the relationship between EI and job satisfaction among nurses in Nepalese tertiary hospital settings remains insufficiently explored. This study aimed to assess the levels of emotional intelligence and job satisfaction among nurses and examine their association with demographic factors. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 200 nurses at Bir Hospital, Kathmandu, using non-probability convenience sampling. Following ethical clearance from the IRB of NAMS, data were collected through self-administered questionnaires from November to December 2024 using Schutte Self Report Emotional Intelligence Test (SSEIT) and Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (MSQ) to assess EI and job satisfaction, respectively. Chi-square tests and Pearson’s correlation coefficient were employed for statistical analysis using SPSS version 20. Results: The majority of participants were aged 20-29 years (62%), held Bachelor of Nursing qualification (79%), were married (67%), and had fewer than five years of nursing experience (51%). Emotional Intelligence levels were average in 77.5%, high in 15.5%, and low in 7.0%. Job satisfaction was average in 97% and high in 3%. Participants had a mean age of 28.96. Emotional Intelligence was significantly associated with age (p=0.021), total nursing experience (p=0.023), and in-service training (p=0.032). A moderate positive correlation existed between EI and job satisfaction (r=0.429, p<0.001). Conclusion: Emotional intelligence is positively correlated with job satisfaction among nurses. Higher emotional intelligence corresponds to higher job satisfaction, likely due to enhanced stress management abilities, stronger interpersonal relationships and better adaptation to workplace challeng
Awareness and Attitude on Dyslexia among Primary School Teachers, Lalitpur
Introduction: Dyslexia is the most common learning disorder in school-age children, affecting areas such as basic reading skills, and written expression, listening, and speaking significantly impacts children’s education, career, communication, and health. Teachers’ awareness and attitudes toward learning disabilities are crucial for timely diagnosis, preventing further mental and social damage through educational rehabilitation and treatment measures. The study aims to assess the awareness and attitudes regarding dyslexia among primary school teachers in selected schools of Lalitpur Municipality. Methods: This study employed a descriptive cross-sectional research design using a multistage cluster sampling method to select 180 participants from 30 public schools of Lalitpur Municipality. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Committee of Tribhuvan University, Institute of Medicine. Data collection was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire from September 1 to 28, 2019. Data analysis involved both descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Most of the respondents (88.3%) had an adequate level of awareness about dyslexia, and more than half (53.9%) had a positive attitude toward the disorder. A significant association was found between the level of awareness and religion (p-value 0.049), but no significant association with age, ethnic group, educational status, experience, class teaching, or subject teaching. Additionally, there was a significant association between attitude levels and age group (p-value 0.002) and educational level (p-value 0.001). Conclusion: Awareness of dyslexia among primary school teachers in Lalitpur is encouraging, comparingly only more than half of the teachers have positive attitude. So there is need to improve awareness and attitude among school-teachers.
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Nursing Education of Nepal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Scrub Typhus a Re-emerging Disease in Children’s Hospital
Scrub typhus is a form of typhus caused by the intracellular parasite Orientia tsutsugamushi a gram-negative alpha protea bacterium of the family rickettsiaceae first isolated and identified in 1930 in Japan. It is frequently diagnosed in South Asian countries including Nepal. After the earthquake in Nepal, a sudden upsurge in scrub typhus cases was reported. it is a mild to life-threatening disease with a case fatality rate without treatment as high as 50%. Disease presentation consists of abrupt high fever, severe headache, lymphadenopathy, generalized myalgia, eschar, and rashes. Diagnosis is generally made on clinical grounds alone, The cheapest and most easily available serological test is the Weil- Felix test but this is notoriously unreliable. Without treatment, the disease is often fatal since the use of antibiotics case fatalities have decreased from 4-40% to less than 2%. Commonly used is doxycycline or tetracycline but chloramphenicol is an alternative. No known vaccine is available to date.
Utilization of Antenatal Care Services and Pregnancy Outcomes among Mothers in a Hospital of Banke
Introduction: Antenatal care is essential care package providing to women during pregnancy. Adequate and effective antenatal care service utilization helps in increasing good maternal and newborn outcomes. The objective of the study was to find out the utilization of antenatal care services and pregnancy outcomes among mothers. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used among 196 mothers attended at postnatal ward in Bheri hospital. Non-probability purposive sampling technique was used to select sample for the study. The data were collected using face to face interview technique by using structured schedule and antenatal record review. The collected data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (chi square test). Results: Findings showed that 5.1% of mothers had complete utilization of antenatal care services. More than half (63.8%) had good maternal outcomes (no hypertension, no pre-eclampsia etc.) and 54.1% had good neonatal outcomes (well breathing, APGAR score more than seven within one minute and normal birth weight). There was a statistically significant association of utilization of antenatal care services with respondents’ occupation (p=0.001). There was a statistically significant association between respondents’ occupation and maternal outcomes (p=0.015). There was statistically significant association between respondents’ education and newborn outcomes (p=0.042). Conclusions: The majority of respondents had incomplete utilization of antenatal care services. The majority of respondents have good maternal outcomes, and more than half respondents have good newborn outcomes. Activities to encourage public for utilization of complete antenatal care services by concerned health authorities might increase utilization of antenatal care services.
Stress and Coping Strategies among Parents of Hospitalized Children in Selected Tertiary Hospitals, Kathmandu
Introduction: Hospitalization for a child can lead to anxiety, depression, and stress for parents, impacting their psychological health and treatment adherence, ultimately affecting the child’s health outcomes. This study aimed to find out stress and coping strategies among parents of hospitalized children in selected tertiary hospitals in Kathmandu. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 200 parents of hospitalized children in two tertiary hospitals in Kathmandu. Non-probability purposive sampling technique was used. Data were collected using Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale and the Coping Health Inventory for Parents. In-person interview method was used to collect data. Data analysis was done using SPSS Version 20.0. Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethical Review Board, Nepal Health Research Council. Results: Among the parents studied, 53.0% were mothers of hospitalized children. Regarding parental stress, 71.5% had a normal level of stress; 12.0%, 9.0%, 5.0%, and 2.5% of the parents had mild, moderate, severe, and extremely severe level of symptoms of stress respectively. There is a significant association of parental stress with their education level (p = 0.029), family income (p=0.032), adequate number of toilets and bathrooms (p=0.27), supply of medicine (p=0.040), and the crowded and noisy environment of the hospital (p = 0.009). Parents used various coping strategies to reduce stress: maintaining family unity, cooperation, and optimism (mean score± SD 23.94± 4.60); seeking social support and emotional stability (mean score± SD: 25.80± 5.38); and understanding their child’s medical situation through communication with other parents and healthcare professionals (mean score± SD 12.65±2.95). Conclusions: Parents experience stress during hospitalizations, influenced by education, income, toilet availability, medicine supply, and noise. They employ various coping strategies. Hospitals should enhance their facilities and communication, reduce environmental stressors, and promote coping strategies for parents of children in the hospital, especially for those with lower education or income.
Status of Anxiety and Depression among Caregivers of Mentally Ill Patients in a Tertiary Hospital
Introduction: The main source of support for mentally ill patients is family, and they take the role of caregivers. Caregivers of mentally ill patients are at great risk of developing anxiety and depression. The main objective of the study was to find out the status of anxiety and depression among caregivers of mentally ill patients in a tertiary hospital. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional research design was adopted. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 263 caregivers of mentally ill patients at the psychiatric department of Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital. Data was collected through an interview technique with a semi-structured questionnaire, along with a pretested and validated Nepali version of the General Anxiety Disorder and Patient Health Questionnaire scale to assess anxiety and depression, respectively. SPSS version 16 was used to analyze the data using descriptive and inferential statistics (chi-square tests). Ethical consideration was maintained throughout the study. Results: Anxiety and depression among caregivers of mentally ill patients were 19.8% and 18.2%, respectively. Risk factors significantly associated with anxiety and depression were sex and health problems of caregivers, social support received by caregivers, and sex of the patient. The type of mental illness of the patient was significantly associated with anxiety, while ethnicity and educational level were significantly associated with depression among caregivers. Conclusion: Minimal anxiety and mild depression were seen among caregivers of mentally ill patients. Thus, there is a need for a screening test and regular psychological counseling for the caregivers of mentally ill patients to prevent mental illness.
Self-Care Practice Among Individuals with Diabetes Attending Selected Hospitals in Kathmandu, Nepal
Introduction: Self-care is a cost-effective and essential practice that plays a vital role in preventing complications and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with diabetes. By improving self-care, it helps reduce the burden on healthcare systems and lowers overall healthcare costs. As self-care practices are highly individualized, this study aims to assess self-care behaviors among diabetic patients. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 205 adult clients with diabetics attending the outpatient departments at two public university hospitals located at Kathmandu . Data were collected through structured interviews using a five-point Likert scale. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for analysis. The self-care was assessed in terms of diet, physical exercise, medication adherence and self-monitoring of blood glucose level. Results: In this study, nearly half (47.3%) of participants followed a calorie-counting diet, 64.4% ate meals on time, and 64.9% consumed dairy products. Over half of them regularly consumed cereals (53.2%) and green vegetables (52.7%). 76.1% ate lentils and 65.4% sometimes consumed beans. A majority of the respondents avoided high salt (68.3%), sugar (68.8%), and cold drinks (85.4%). Regarding physical activity, 66.8% engaged in 20–30 minutes of daily exercise; but, 83.9% did not perform brisk walking. Medication adherence was high, 99.5% taking prescribed doses and 92.6% did not change their medication without physician advice. Only 31.8% regularly monitored blood glucose, and 67.0% checked when needed without keeping records. Overall, 82.5% exhibited average self-care practices, with good medication adherence (92.7%) and an average dietary pattern (94.6%). A significant association was observed between age and self-care practices (p<0.028). Conclusion: This study shows high medication adherence but highlights gaps in diet, exercise, and blood glucose monitoring practices. Regular structured education program for diabetes people in these areas could improve overall diabetes self-care thus potentially enhancing outcomes.
Postpartum Family Planning Utilization among Mothers attending Maternal and Child Health Clinic of Tertiary Level Hospital
Introduction: The postpartum period is one of the critical phases in terms of initiation of Family Planning. Postpartum family planning can save mothers’ and babies’ lives by preventing more than one-third of maternal deaths and 1 in 10 deaths among babies. The prevalence of postpartum family planning utilization is low in our Nepal. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the MCH clinic of Rapti Academy of Health science after obtaining ethical approval from the Nepal Health Research council (NHRC). The objective of study was to find out the prevalence of postpartum family planning utilization. The convenience sampling method was used to collect data from 103 mothers having children from 6 weeks to 1year by using a self-structured interview schedule after pretesting. The collected data was analyzed using discriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Less than half of the respondents (46.6%) received family planning counseling and postpartum family planning utilization was only 27.2%. The commonly used current postpartum family planning methods were a condom(39.3%) and depo (32.1%). Age of child, resumption of mensuration, resumption of sex, counseling on family planning method, and previous use of family planning were associated with postpartum family planning method with p value less than 0.05. Conclusion: The prevalence of postpartum family planning utilization is low in Nepal. The counseling regarding postpartum family planning methods during the Antenatal, delivery, and postnatal periods should be improved to increase the use of family planning.
Maternal Fetal Attachment among Pregnant Women Attending in a Provincial Hospital
Introduction: Maternal-fetal attachment (MFA) refers to the behaviors and emotions exhibited by expectant mothers toward their unborn child including care, commitment, and nurturing actions. The maternal psychological state encompassing thoughts, behaviors, and emotions significantly influences fetal development by promoting healthier self-care and pregnancy-related health practices. The main objective of this study was to assess maternal-fetal attachment among first-time pregnant women attending antenatal care at a provincial hospital in Hetauda, Nepal. Methods: a descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among first-time pregnant women attending antenatal care at a provincial hospital in Hetauda, Nepal. Data were collected using a structured two-part questionnaire comprising a socio-demographic and obstetric profile and the validated Cranley Maternal-Fetal Attachment Scale. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed by using SPSS. Results: Among 145 participants, 80.7% demonstrated a high level of maternal-fetal attachment, with a mean total score of 85.32. Among the five domains of the Cranley scale, “giving of self” showed the highest mean score (4.31 ± 0.50), while “interaction with fetus” scored the lowest (2.78 ± 0.96). Statistically significant associations were observed between MFA scores and maternal age (p < 0.003), educational status of the respondent and her husband (p < 0.001), timing of antenatal care initiation, emotional response to ultrasound, and family support (p < 0.000). Conclusion: Most first-time pregnant women in this study exhibited high maternal-fetal attachment. Factors such as education, age, antenatal clinic timing, emotional experiences, and support systems significantly influenced attachment levels. These findings emphasize the importance of integrating psychological support into routine antenatal care to ensure comprehensive maternal well-being.
Fear of Childbirth among Pregnant Women in a Hospital, Kathmandu
Introduction: Fear of childbirth is a significant concern that can affect a woman’s health, well-being, and relationships during and after pregnancy. It can lead to distress for the woman and her family, as well as increase the risk of complications during childbirth. So, this study aims to assess the level of fear of child birth and identify associated factors among pregnant women in the hospital of Kathmandu. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted enrolling 418 pregnant women attending outpatient department of Paropakar Maternity and women’s Hospital. Participants were selected using a Purposive sampling technique. Ethical approval was obtained prior to the study from Institutional Review Committee of Paropakar Maternity and women’s Hospital. Data was collected through a structured interview questionnaire from an extensive literature review. The collected data was analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23, with both descriptive and inferential statistics. Statistical significance was determined at a p-value <0.05with a 95% confidence level in bivariate analysis. Results: More than half of the respondents (56.7%) reported high fear of childbirth, while 43.3% reported low fear. Several factors were significantly associated with higher fear of childbirth. Maternal age above 27 years were associated with higher fear (OR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.41-0.89, p = 0.01). Women who were homemakers (OR = 3.05, 95% CI: 1.22-7.74, p = 0.017), engaged in business (OR = 4.68, 95% CI: 1.66-13.21, p = 0.003) and those in their first trimester (OR = 3.35, 95% CI: 1.21-9.33, p = 0.02) were more likely to experience high fear of childbirth. Conclusion: The study found that more than half of pregnant women reported high fear of childbirth and less than half had low fear. Factors significantly linked to this fear included maternal age, being a home maker, engaging in business and being in first trimester. Addressing this fear through targeted educational programs and counseling during early pregnancy is essential for improving maternal well-being and potentially reducing obstetric complications.
Exploration of Self-medication Practice among Medical Students of Kathmandu Valley
Introduction: Self-medication has been widely used, most commonly by medical students, for self-diagnosed minor health-related symptoms. Self-medication can be beneficial if used responsibly, however, it can potentially cause harm as well. Thus, the study aimed to identify self-medication practices among medical students. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional research was conducted among students studying Bachelor levels in Nursing, Public Health, and Pharmacy at four different colleges in the Kathmandu Valley. Students were selected through a convenient sampling technique. Data were collected using a self-developed Google form. Though the calculated sample size was 447, a total of 285 students filled up the form, representing a 63.7% response rate. Data was analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The study revealed that nearly all (93.0%) students have used self-medication. Self-medication was high among females (83.0%), students of Bachelor of Science in Nursing (26.0%), and Bachelors in Pharmacy (26.0%). The maximum students used self-medication due to the mildness of illness (63.8%), mostly for the common cold (67.4%). Antipyretics were used by many (71.2%), and the oral route was mostly preferred (97.0%). The pharmacy was the source for self-medication for almost all (98.5%). One-tenth (12.3%) of students experienced side-effects, after which, 74.3% stopped medications and consulted doctors. There was significant association between self-medication among students and the presence of self-medication in family (p-value=0.007). Conclusion: The study concluded that nearly all students used self-medication due to mildness of illness, mostly for the common cold and antipyretics were commonly used. There was a significant association between self-medication among students and the presence of self-medication in the family.
Experiences of Female Community Health Volunteers Regarding Maternal and Newborn Care in Kaski District
Introduction: Female Community Health Volunteer plays vital role in maternal and newborn health of community. Despite being a backbone of health care system of Nepal to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality they are facing different challenges from family, and community while performing their role. Limited studies are being done in this area, so the researcher aimed to explore the experiences of female community health volunteer while performing their role. Method: A Hermeneutic Phenomenology design was used to collect data from purposively selected twelve Female Community Health Volunteers of Pokhara-11, Kaski district. Data was collected by in-depth interview method using semi-structured interview guidelines. Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Institutional Review Committee. Data was transcribed and analyzed using the seven-step Collaizi method. Findings: After analysis of the experiences of study participants emerged eight themes and twenty-nine sub themes. The themes were providing antenatal care, postnatal and newborn care, under-five children care, cross-cutting maternal and newborn health activities, motivating factors, challenges, expectation of female community health volunteers and communication system. People praise and accept their health advice and visit health centers for care. Conclusion: It is concluded that the participants have experienced both motivation and barriers from family, community and health institutions while providing care to the community. Some people listen and praise their effort and follow their health advice while some ignore them. Good health of mother and child bring dedication to continue to serve the people. The study provided comprehensive information on members working in grassroot level of health and will help local leaders to use these findings for enhancing their performance by addressing their problems.
Effectiveness of Structured Educational Intervention on Knowledge Regarding First Aid of Choking and Burns among Nepalese Female Adults: A Pre-experimental Study
Introduction: Injuries and accidents are major public health problems worldwide. Knowledge of first aid is important for female groups who can effectively promote community awareness and prevent the consequences associated with injury and accidents. Most studies have concentrated on a broad and scattered range of injuries and accidents. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of structured educational intervention on knowledge regarding first aid management of choking and burns among female adults in the community. Methods: A pre-experimental one-group pre-test-post-test study was conducted among randomly selected 24 female adults of Lalitpur. Sample size determined based on a power analysis. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews using researcher-developed structured questions. A structured educational intervention consisting of two sessions on burn and choking, each lasting one hour was implemented. Data were analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics, namely the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test. Results: Median knowledge scores significantly increased from pre-test to post-test for choking (Md = 4 to 11, Z = –4.294) and burns (Md = 6 to 12, Z = –4.297), both with large effect sizes (r = 0.88). All participants demonstrated improved post-test scores, indicating a consistent and substantial gain in knowledge following the structured educational intervention. Conclusions: The structured educational intervention was effective in increasing knowledge on choking and burns among female adults. Thus, this study recommends employing structured educational interventions by community health nurses and public health professionals to enhance community awareness of choking and burns.
Effectiveness of Educational Intervention Regarding Cervical Cancer among Female Teachers in Government Schools, Jhapa
Introduction: Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality among women in developing countries. Educational interventions on cervical cancer can decrease the resultant morbidity and mortality. Increasing knowledge on teachers can lead to higher rates of cervical screening and vaccination, both personally and through advocacy. Female teachers not only serve as educators but also act as community influencers and role models for students and other women in society. The aim of this study was to find out the effectiveness of educational intervention regarding knowledge on cervical cancer among female teachers in government schools. Methods: Pre-experimental one group pretest-post test design was carried out on 105 female teachers from government schools of Gaurigunj rural municipality, Jhapa, Nepal by using non-probability purposive sampling. Pretest knowledge was assessed by using structured self-administered questionnaire. The educational intervention package was developed from literature review and guidelines. After four weeks, post test was conducted on the same participants using same instrument used in pretest. Descriptive and inferential statistics; wilcoxon signed rank test was computed for p-value. Results: This study revealed that more than two third (69.5%) of the respondents had poor knowledge in the pre-intervention phase and almost all (92.4%) of the respondents had good knowledge in the post-intervention phase. There was a significant improvement in median score and range from 41.86 (34.88-51.16) to 88.37 (86.05-90.70) respectively (p<0.001). Conclusion: Educational intervention on cervical cancer significantly enhanced the knowledge score of female teachers. Hence, it is recommended that nurses initiate such programs to provide appropriate cervical cancer information to motivate teachers and educate their students and guardians to recommend health behavior for cervical cancer prevention.