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.
Disease Severity and Care Practices of COVID-19 Infected Nurses: A Cross-sectional Study
Covid-19 has been causing serious medical complications resulting from mild to critical illness, including death. Nurses caring for patients with COVID-19 were getting infected themselves and posing a risk to their families. This study aimed to find out the severity of the disease and care practices of COVID-19-infected nurses Methods: A cross-sectional study design among 418 nurses from COVID-designated hospitals was contact personally to collect data through a self-administered questionnaire in 2021 after taking Ethical approval from NHRC. The SPSS software version 16 was used to process and analyze the data. Results: The mean age of participants was 29.69, ranging from 19 to 68 years. Among all female participants, 335 (80.1%) were staff nurses, 236 (56.5%) were working in the COVID-designated area, and only 17% received training. Likewise, participants who were in isolation were 322 (77%), while 8 (1.9%) were admitted and treated in the critical care unit, and 26 (6.2%) received antiviral therapy. Additionally, their practices showed wearing PPE at>90%, following donning and doffing 87%, and eating nutritious food 86%. Music was a relaxation technique for 60%, followed by yoga/meditation for 43%. The Chi-square test showed no association between disease severity and care practices of COVID-19 infection. Conclusion: The majority of nurses experienced mild to moderate health issues due to COVID-19 infection. Whereas their care practices about wearing PPE, donning, and doffing were good, and no association of disease severity and care practice. Therefore, further exploration is needed to identify the factors associated with disease severity.
Barriers in Seeking Treatment among People with Alcohol Problem in a Selected Ward of Dharan
Introduction: One of the most important global addiction demands is an alcoholic beverage. In developing countries like Nepal, alcohol intake tends to be a major problem because of various socio-cultural practices, lack of adequate awareness for alcohol-related problems, and the emergence of social drinking patterns, a large majority of individuals with problematic drinkers do not seek treatment. This study aimed to analyze barriers in seeking treatment among people with alcohol problems and to find out association between socio- demographic factors and barriers in seeking treatment among people with alcohol problem in a selected ward of Dharan. Methods: A cross- sessional study was conducted in Dharan17 and samples were selected using the snowball sampling method. Ethical clearance was taken from the Institution Review Committee (IRC) of BPKIHS (IRC number: IRC/1576/019). Each participant was interviewed by the researcher herself using the Performa in a separate area. Data collection was undertaken in 2 weeks. A total of 104 samples were screened by the (Cut down, annoyed, Guilty and Eye Opener) CAGE questionnaire. A score of 2 or greater ‘Yes’ from CAGE, considered clinically significant with alcohol use problems. The Barrier to Treatment Inventory (BTI) scale was used to assess barriers. Mean, median, standard deviation, percent, and frequency were used to describe demographic data and Barriers in seeking treatment. Independent sample T-test, ANOVA, Multiple Linear Regression Analysis were adopted to find out the association between dependent and independent variables. Results: The majority of the subjects were male (73%), married (77%), and Janjati (60%). Labor was highest among all the occupations (38%). “Absence of problem” barrier in seeking treatment predominated by a mean scores of 71%. Further a significant association was found with family income/ month and barriers in seeking treatment (p-value 0.01). Conclusion: The study findings conclude the absence of a problem as a major barrier in seeking treatment. Barriers in seeking treatment tend to decrease as income increases.
Awareness Regarding Stroke among Patients with Hypertension Attending a Tertiary Hospital
Introduction: Stroke is a global burden especially in developing countries with hypertension being one of the preventable key risk factors. Patients’ awareness of stroke is crucial for its prevention and early and effective management. The objective of this study was to find out the awareness of stroke among patients with hypertension in a tertiary hospital in Nepal. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Outpatient Department of Manmohan Cardiothoracic Vascular and Transplant Centre, Kathmandu. A total of 106 patients diagnosed with hypertension were selected using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Data was collected from April to May 2024 with face-to-face interviews using a researcher-developed semi-structured interview questionnaire. Data were analyzed with Statistical Package for Social Science version 16 with descriptive statistics for frequency, mean, percentage, and standard deviation and inferential statistics Chi-square and Fischer exact test to measure the association between stroke awareness and selected variables. Results: The study findings revealed that out of 106 hypertensive patients, 40.6% had a good level, 49.1% had a fair level, and 9.4% had a poor level of awareness of stroke. The level of awareness was statistically significant with place of residence, educational status, regular medicine intake, and regular follow-up schedule. Conclusion: This study concludes that patients with hypertension have a fair level of awareness of stroke. Thus, stroke awareness programs incorporating lifestyle modifications, blood pressure control, regular medications, and follow-ups should be conducted to control hypertension and decrease the stroke burden among patients with hypertension.
Awareness Regarding Preconception Care among Reproductive Age Women in a Community
Introduction: Preconception Care is critical component between planning pregnancy to conception. It aims at successful pregnancy and its outcome. It focuses on health promotion, risk factor assessment and intervention. The objective of this study was to find out the awareness regarding preconception care among reproductive age women in a community. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 85 women of reproductive age in ward no 4 of Tokha municipality, samples were selected using the non-probability convenience sampling technique. A self-developed, semi structured interview schedule was used for data collection by in person interview method. Data was analyzed by using SPSS version 16. Descriptive statistics frequency, mean, mode, median, range, percentage, and standard deviation were used to describe socio-demographic variables and level of awareness and inferential statistics Chi-square and fisher exact test were used to measure the association between level of awareness and selected variables. Results: The findings revealed that nearly half (44.7%) respondents had adequate awareness, 43.5% had moderate awareness, and 11.8% had low awareness regarding preconception care. The level of awareness was associated with husbands’ education level and history of abortion. Conclusion: Less than half women of reproductive age have adequate awareness regarding preconception care, with more awareness on risk factor assessment and less awareness on the area of intervention and management. Therefore, it would be preferable to implement formal and informal education and awareness programs on many aspects of preconception care in the community to promote awareness.
Awareness on Suicide among Adolescents Residing in Metropolitan City, Kathmandu
Introduction: Suicide is become a primary cause of mortality and illness in adolescents, worldwide and has been identified as one of the key mental health problems, which is the third leading cause of death among adolescents. The objective of the study is to find out awareness on suicide among adolescents. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 145 respondents in Kathmandu Metropolitian city ward no. 14, Kalanki. Non-probability convenient sampling technique was used. Data was collected by self-administered questionnaire by using self-developed structured tool. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The findings of this study reveal that more than half of respondents (56.6%) had high level of awareness and (43.4%) had a low level of awareness on suicide. Despite that, less awareness on risk factors (66.2%), prevention on suicide (65.5%) and suicidal behaviour (57.2%). There was no association between level of awareness and selected variables i.e. age, sex, ethnicity, education, marital status, family type, staying with and income. Conclusion: The study findings conclude that there is need to enhance the level of awareness among adolescents to prevent potential risk from suicidal behavior.
Awareness on Child Abuse among Students in Public Schools of Rural Municipality of Nepal
Introduction: Child abuse is a global issue, all around the world which violates the rights of the children affecting their personal, social and psychological development leaving a lifetime psychological scar. It can happen at home, in organizations, schools or communities by parents, caregivers, neighbors and teachers. School children’s self-awareness is very important to prevent child abuse. The study aimed to find out level of awareness of child abuse among students in public schools in the Rural Municipality of Nepal. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 students in grade 8, 9 and 10, selected through cluster sampling, using a self-administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed, using descriptive and inferential statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, chi-square and fisher exact test. Results: The study found out that around half (46.8%) of the respondents had an average level and 28% had an inadequate level of awareness on child abuse with a mean score of 62.3 ±19.8. Majority (63.2%) of the respondents considered smoking and drinking alcohol as possible consequences of child abuse, 69.6% stated that sharing problems with parents or close friends is preventive measures and 82.0% were aware of reporting to the police administration if they experience abuse. A significant association was found between the level of awareness and educational level (p-value 0.000). Conclusion: The students have an average level of awareness about child abuse but significant number of students still lack adequate level of awareness. Hence, awareness raising program on child abuse focusing school students is recommended.
Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of Nursing Education of Nepal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Introduction: Work Place Violence (WPV) is an issue faced by the nursing professionals all over the world. Literature have added strategies for developing insight for addressing the issues from different level. Methods: A total of 40 original and reviewed articles were searched through electronic databases like Pubmed, Google Scholar and Research Gate. Among them, 28 relevant articles (17 original research & 11 reviewed articles) were selected and analyzed, Results: After reviewing total of 28 articles, it was extracted that nurses are experiencing different form of workplace violence which includes verbal abuse, physical assault, bullying/mobbing and sexual harassment. Verbal violence is common compared with physical abuse and sexual harassment. Related to their complex nature of the work, prolong contact with patients and frequent exposure to their relatives' violence related events occurs. Violence is directly related to decreasing job satisfaction, burnout, humiliation, guilt, emotional stress, intention to quit a job, and increased staff turnover. Interventions like Zero tolerance of violence, training for nurses, loby with government for protection, creating open and respectful rights-based organizational cultures, model behaviors leadership and workplace safety plans are needed to protect nurses and provide them safe workplace environment. Conclusion: A significant proportion of nurses faced varied form of violence at their health facilities with serious impact to their work life. In order to reduce workplace violence multiple interventions such as zero tolerance of violence and workplace protection policy need to be more focused.
Priority Supportive Care Needs of Patients Living with and Beyond Cancer: A Systematic Review
Introduction: Supportive care needs are felt needs expressed by the patients and family members of cancer patients. Cancer disease itself cause many kinds of problems in cancer patients. The identification and management of supportive care needs is essential to provide most priority care expressed by people with cancer. Detail information about the supportive care need can help service planning/redesign of each individual cancer patients. This study aims to identify different kinds of supportive care needs with priority among cancer patients of different country. Methods: This systematic review study included only English published articles between 1995 Jan to 2020 from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Science direct, Google Scholar and JSTOR. The extraction of data was done by two independent authors and a third independent author checked the data extraction. The PRISMA statement was adopted. Results: Total eleven studies(cross sectional descriptive- 7, qualitative-1 prospective cohort design-1, design not mentioned) were included in this review. Psychological supportive care need was the first priority supportive care needs among most of the respondents and SCNS-SF 34 was the most frequently used scale in the studies. Conclusions: Different methodologies used in different studies hinder the analysis of types of supportive care needs among patients living with cancer and minimize the quality of generalization. Estimation of sample size was lacking in ninety percent of studies. Identification of support as per type of cancer is also essential to prioritize their problem.
Nursing Care Strategies for Grief and Bereavement
Introduction: Grief is a person’s reaction to loss. Bereavement is a state of experience after loss that causes a great deal of distress and sorrow. Providing nursing care and support for patients and families is crucial. Nurses have key role for development and implementation of bereavement care in health care settings considering the negative health consequences associated with the complicated grief. Methods: Sources of evidence are retrieved from a large number of databases and resources. A review of literature and journal publications was conducted by searching through various databases, including PubMed, Cochrane, and Google Scholar. Key terms " Grief" "Bereavement" "Anticipatory Grieving" "Nursing care for bereaved individual", "Nursing care for bereaved family" were used to search nursing care strategies for the bereaved individual and family members. Results: The evidence shows a variety of nursing interventions for the efficient management of loss and grief includes acknowledging the loss, engaging in active listening, and allowing family caregivers to express their feelings, offering grief support counselling. Conclusion: Grief and bereavement are a normal reaction after loss. Each individual has unique way to respond with loss of their loved ones. The majority of individuals adjust to the loss in their own way but very few may need professional consultation and treatment for the management of complicated grief.
Consequences of Adolescent Pregnancy on Maternal and Neonatal Health: A Narrative Review
Introduction: Adolescent pregnancy, classified as pregnancies occurring between the ages of 13 to 19, is a multifaceted and crucial public health concern that affects both the young mother and her newborn. The physiological and psychosocial immaturity of the adolescent mother presents distinctive challenges during pregnancy. Moreover, the effects of teenage pregnancy extend beyond the prenatal phase, influencing neonatal well-being and the long-term health paths of both the mother and child. The purpose is to review the literature and evaluate the impacts of adolescent pregnancy on both mothers and neonates. Methods: A review of literature and journal publications was conducted by searching through various databases, including PubMed, CINHL, Science Direct, Cochrane, and Google Scholar. A specific search approach was applied for each database. Initially, 627 titles were retrieved, and after screening, 10 articles were chosen for a more detailed evaluation. Ultimately, 10 articles met the specific criteria for inclusion in the study. Results: The findings indicated that adolescent pregnancy is linked to a higher likelihood of maternal health complications like anemia, pre-eclampsia, eclampsia, post-partum hemorrhage, and adverse neonatal outcomes, including preterm birth, low birth weight, and prolonged NICU admission. Conclusion: Adolescent pregnancy leads to higher rates of maternal and neonatal complications. Therefore, it is crucial to provide health education, and support programs for teenage mothers.
Satisfaction on Clinical Learning Environment among Students in Selected Nursing Colleges, Kathmandu
Introduction: Clinical learning is an essential component of nursing studies. Satisfaction with clinical placements may improve students' learning outcomes as well as their retention in nursing studies. The objective of this study was to find out the satisfaction regarding the clinical learning environment among students in selected nursing colleges, in Kathmandu. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 92 nursing students studying in three Tribhuvan University Affiliated nursing colleges in Kathmandu. Respondents were selected by using the total enumeration method. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 16 and analysis was done by showing descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The findings of the study showed that only 30.4% of respondents had a high level of satisfaction on clinical learning environment. There was a significant difference between students’ satisfaction with age (p= 0.030) and areas of clinical practicum (p=0.0001). According to domain highest satisfaction was obtained in nursing care on the ward (3.89+-0.51) and the lowest satisfaction was obtained in supervisory relationships with students (3.46+-0.59). Conclusion: Satisfaction level of students needs to be increased because this study reveals that only one third of the nursing students have a high level of satisfaction with their clinical placement. A significant difference was found between age and areas of clinical practicum.
Quality of Life among Clients under Methadone Maintenance Therapy in Methadone Clinic
Introduction: Methadone maintenance therapy has impacts on quality of life among opioid use disorder clients. It is a widely accepted treatment for opioid dependent clients. The study aimed to assess the quality of life among clients under methadone maintenance therapy in selected centers of Kathmandu. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 162 clients recruited through probability and proportionate sampling technique from two methadone clinics of Kathmandu Metropolitan city. The data was collected from August to September 2022, through face to face interview using WHOQOL-BREF which included 26 items. The data was analyzed by using descriptive statistics to calculate frequency, percentage, mean, median, quartiles, and inferential statistics and Chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test to assess association of quality of life and selected variables. Results: The findings of the study showed that overall score of quality of life was 50. Majority of the respondents (68.5%) had above average quality of life. The highest score was in physical domain (51.61) followed by environment (48.57), social (46.66), and lowest score was in psychological domain (46.15). The study showed a statistically significant association between quality of life and age of opioid use (p=.032). Conclusion: Majority of the clients under methadone maintenance therapy had above average quality of life. Quality of life is comparatively higher in physical domain and lower in psychological domain.
Perceived Stress and Coping Strategies among the Pregnant Women at a Tertiary Hospital, Bharatpur
Introduction: Pregnancy is a transitional phase of women’s life in which pregnant women experiences physiological, psychological and social changes causing varying forms and levels of stress in all trimesters and they need to adopt different coping strategies for managing the stress for better pregnancy outcome. Thus, this study assessed the perceived stress and coping strategies among pregnant women in their third trimester. Methods: A cross-sectional research design was adopted. A total 345 pregnant women in their third trimester were included by using purposive sampling technique. Data was collected during August 7th 2022 to September 22nd2022 at Bhartpur hospital. Pre-tested tool was used to collect the data for assessing perceived stress and Brief-COPE scale was used to measure coping strategies. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics specifically Chi square test and Fisher’s exact test was used to find out the association between level of stress and selected variables. Further, spearman’s rank correlation coefficient was used to find out the relationship between level of stress and coping strategies. Results: One fifth (19.7%) of the respondents had high level of perceived stress during third trimester of pregnancy. Presence of perceived stress was highest on childbirth process dimension with median percentage (32.0%) followed by followed by stress of newborn baby’s health status and care with median percent ( 25%) and Stress about postpartum health conditions and support ( 20%). Majority (65%) of of the respondents had used emotional focused coping strategies for dealing with stress followed by problem focused coping strategies with median percent (62.5 %. The level of perceived stress of respondents was significantly associated with respondent’s spouse educational status (p=.007) and gestational age (p=.024). Perceived stress and coping strategies had weak positive correlation (r =.111). Conclusion: One fifth of the pregnant women had high level of perceived stress. Level of perceived stress is highest in the childbirth process dimension and care of new born. Perceived stress is significantly associated with educational status of spouse. Regarding coping strategies, emotional focused coping strategies were more likely to be used for dealing with stress. There is weak positive relationship between perceived stress and coping strategies.
Nursing Student’s Perception of Satisfaction and Self-Confidence with Skill Laboratory Practice
Introduction: Nursing students go through series of theory and practical sessions before accomplishing the nursing course. It is necessary for the students to gain master in basic procedures prior to practicing on real patients. Therefore, students best learn to perform nursing procedures in skill laboratories through demonstrations and simulations. The current study aims to assess the nursing students’ perception on satisfaction and self-confidence towards skill laboratory practice. Methods: A descriptive cross sectional research design with total enumeration technique was used. Self- administered technique was used to collect data from 78 respondents. The data was analyzed in SPSS software version 20 using descriptive analysis. Results: The mean age of the students was 20.35±1.43. Out of 78 students, half (51.3%) were involved in fundamental laboratory, while, 48.7% were involved in Midwifery laboratory practice. More than half of the students (56.4%) were satisfied with the skill laboratory practice, and half of the students (50%) had high self-confidence to practice in actual clinical setting after skill laboratory practice. Conclusion: More than half of the students were satisfied and half of them had high self-confidence, and there is still need to put more efforts towards improving the practice in order to exceed the current quantity as well as the quality of practice.
Mediating Role of Coping Ability between Servant Leadership Style and Burnout among Nepalese Nurses during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-sectional Study
Background: Nurses were the frontline health professionals caring for patients during the COVID-19pandemic.Uncertainty of life caused job stress and burnout, but the effective mobilization of health workers saved people's lives. In this context, this study intended to examine the effect of servant leadership in predicting nurses’ burnout by employing the perspective of social exchange theory and emotional contagion theory. Aims: This study aimed to examine the mediating role of coping ability between servant leadership and job burnout among nurses in Nepal. Methods: This research employed a cross-sectional survey with a quantitative research approach. Data were collected from 389 nurses with personal contact via an online Google form using a Likert questionnaire and the snowball sampling approach. Data were analyzed based on partial least squares because of highly correlated predictors of the predicting variable, using SPSS-AMOS. Results: Servant leadership (β=- 0.25; 95%CI=0.42, 0.73) and coping ability (β=-048;CI=0.53,0.86) have an inverse relationship with nurses’ burnout. Results revealed a significant effect of coping ability in the relationship between servant leadership and job burnout. Conclusions:Servantleadershipsignificantlyreducesnurses’burnout. It is more effective in association with the coping ability of nurses. Originality: This study stresses the application of servant leadership for effective customer care during a crisis. This study contributes to crisis management practices in mobilizing health workers about social exchange and emotional contagion theories.