Impact of Gaming (Gamification) on Diabetes Self-Care Behaviors and Glycemic Outcomes Among Adults With Type 2 Diabetes.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this systematic review was to determine if the use of gaming (gamification) among persons with type 2 diabetes improves diabetes self-management behaviors and diabetes outcomes. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted using electronic databases including MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and CINAHL. Studies reporting on the impact of gaming on at least 1 of the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists self-care behaviors (ADCES7) were included. RESULTS: The review included 9 studies, 8 of which were of strong/high quality. Five of the self-care behaviors were addressed in at least 1 of the included studies. However, taking medications and problem solving were not reported in any of the studies. Physical activity and self-efficacy or quality of life (healthy coping) were the most frequently reported ADCES7 behaviors. Six of the studies used A1C as an outcome measure, with a reduction reported in all the studies except 1. CONCLUSION: Type 2 diabetes affects a person holistically, necessitating a range of self-care behaviors to effectively manage the chronic condition. Novel gaming interventions may improve coping mechanisms, lifestyle behaviors, medication engagement, and monitoring of risks and problems, all of which are essential in facilitating optimal diabetes self-management.

Implementation of an Online Affirmation Discussion for RN-to-BSN Students.

This article describes a quality improvement project that studied students' perceptions about how writing affirmations on an online discussion board helped them transition into the first semester of an RN-to-BSN online program. Analysis of students' responses revealed themes (Transition to a New Group, Enhanced Critical Thinking, and Focus on Client-Centered Care) that aligned with holistic nursing practice and nursing role development.

Cultural factors associated with physical activity among U.S. adults: An integrative review.

AIM: The purpose of this integrative review is to identify the cultural factors associated with physical activity (PA) among United States (U.S.) adults. BACKGROUND: Physical inactivity is a significant public health problem that requires comprehensive community-based efforts. Cultural factors influence behavior and attitudes towards PA. Therefore, identifying the cultural factors is a key requirement for the planning of specific measures to enhance the level of PA and are more promising than campaigns aimed at the general population. This integrative review examined existing research on cultural factors influencing adult PA to inform the development of culturally adapted PA interventions in adults. METHODS: Literature searches were conducted in key scientific databases (PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health, and PsycINFO) using several key words related to both culture and PA. Fifteen peer-reviewed articles were identified, reviewed, synthesized, and critically analyzed. RESULTS: Eight major categories of cultural factors were identified: 1) collectivism and cultural identity; 2) religiosity; 3) cultural attitudes and gender norms in regards to PA; 4) cultural perspectives on health in regards to PA; 5) cultural expectations of familism and lack of time; 6) lack of role models and lack of motivation; 7) lack of culturally appropriate exercise facilities; and 8) cultural expectations of body image and physical appearance. CONCLUSIONS: Review findings emphasize the need for health promotion targeted toward improving cultural barriers to PA among U.S. Adults.