Nurses' perceptions toward factors that cause medication errors in Jordan: A qualitative study.

AIMS: The aim of this study was to investigate nurses' experiences related to medication errors (MEs) from the perspective of Jordanian nurses. This article reports the findings concerning the factors that cause MEs from the perspectives of Jordanian nurses. BACKGROUND: MEs are critical issues facing healthcare providers and health institutions. Most of the studies on MEs were conducted in Western countries. However, there is little research that seeks to understand this issue in the developing countries and Jordan is one of these countries. DESIGN: A qualitative descriptive approach was used in three hospitals in different clinical settings in Jordan. METHODS: Individual semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted with 24 nurses. RESULTS: The data that emerged from the interviews was arranged and contextualized in two major themes, individual and systemic factors, that explained the main causes of MEs. From the individual side, lack of knowledge and experience ranked as the highest concerns, and from the systematic side workload was the most important factor. CONCLUSION: This study provides an opportunity for stakeholders and Jordanian managers to increase their awareness of these factors and address them in the future, thereby increasing the level of care provided in their health organizations.

Sexual Assault Among College Students Attending a Historically Black College/University.

Sexual assault constitutes a significant public health problem on college campuses including historically Black colleges and universities (HBCU). Recent research suggests that sexual assault is increasing on college campuses. However, there are few studies examining the prevalence and risk factors for sexual assault at HBCUs. To address this gap, the current study examined the prevalence, correlates, and outcomes of sexual assault at an HBCU. Participants in the study were 264 undergraduate students from an HBCU in the mid-Atlantic region. The majority of participants were female (71%), African American (91%), and seniors (41%). After providing informed consent, participants completed a Climate Assessment survey administered by the university's Office of Diversity. Findings revealed that since starting college about 20% of students experienced sexual contact without consent. Of those sexually assaulted, 20% reported they were incapacitated or under the influence of alcohol (15%) at the time of the assault. About 17% of those assaulted experienced a physical injury and/or poor mental health outcomes (e.g., anxiety, depression, flashbacks). Participants reported not disclosing information of their assault due to embarrassment, afraid of retaliation from the perpetrator, believing it was a private matter. Close friends were more likely to be told about sexual assault. The study supports the need to address sexual assault on HBCU campuses through strong prevention and intervention programs and to address barriers to reporting.