Psychological predictors of quality of life among Jordanian cancer patients' caregivers.

OBJECTIVE: The caregivers who provide care for patients with cancer often experience emotional and psychological stressors and burdens that could be influenced by several factors, including the cultural context. This study examines the level of emotional distress and burden and their effect on the quality of life (QOL) of Jordanian cancer patients' caregivers. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 257 family caregivers of patients at various stages of cancer. RESULTS: The average age of caregivers was 37.5 years (SD = 12.2). Most caregivers (145; 59.2%) were female and married (168; 68.6%). About a quarter were partners (32.2%) and lived with their patients (137; 55.9%). Caregivers with a reduced overall Caregiver Quality of Life Index-Cancer (CQOLC) score were more likely to be older, the parents of the patients, and living with patients in the same house. A significant negative relationship was found between caregivers' CQOLC and Zarit Burden Interview (r = -0.7, p = 0.001), anxiety (r = -0.69, p = 0.001), and depression (r = -0.42, p = 0.03) scores. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that burden, anxiety, and depression scores were independent predictors and explained 63% of the variance in the total CQOLC score of caregivers. CONCLUSION: Cancer caregivers are at elevated risk of poor QOL. Despite participants' low perception of the burden level, this study provides preliminary results for policymakers and medical practitioners to foster a comprehensive platform supporting cancer caregivers. Moreover, identifying the caregivers' readiness to provide the needed care and the availability of supportive resources, as a clinical routine, is strongly recommended.

Epidemiology of early infections and predictors of mortality after autologous hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation among multiple myeloma, Hodgkin, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma: the first experience from Palestine.

BACKGROUND: Autologous hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT) is the standard of care in many relapsed and refractory lymphoid malignancy, neuroblastoma, and multiple myeloma (MM). This study was conducted to describe the epidemiology of early infections that occurred within the first 100 days among patients who received HSCT for MM, Hodgkin (HL), and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in Palestine. METHODS: This study was conducted in a retrospective cohort design in the only autologous HSCT in Palestine in the period between 2014 and 2021. The medical records of the patients were reviewed to identify and collect demographic, clinical, and microbiological data on bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections as diagnosed by cultures, polymerase chain reaction, and fluorescent antibody testing. RESULTS: A total of 145 patients were included in this study (median age = 44.0 [28.0, 53.5] years). Of those, 8 (5.5%) were younger than 18 years, 69 (47.6%) had MM, 53 (36.6%) had HL, and 23 (15.9%) had NHL. The source of fever had no focus in the majority of the cases 82 (56.6%), 12 (8.3%) had bloodstream infections, 8 (5.5%) had colitis, and 7.6 (5.0%) had pneumonia. Patients from whom gram-negative bacteria were isolated stayed in the hospital for longer duration compared to the other patients (median = 21.0 [19.0, 25.0] vs. 18.0 [15.0, 22.0] days, p-value = 0.043, respectively). The cumulative incidence of death in the first 100 days after infusion of stem cells was 3.4%. The cumulative incidence of death in the first 100 days post-transplantation was higher for patients with NHL compared to those with HL and MM (p-value = 0.017). Gram-negative and fungal infections were strong predictors of mortality. CONCLUSION: Bacterial gram-positive and gram-negative infections were the most common early infections among patients who underwent autologous HSCT for hematological malignancies (HM) in the only center in Palestine. The findings of this study are informative to healthcare providers and planners of care for patients who are scheduled to receive autologous HSCT for HM.

The impact of online teaching on stress and burnout of academics during the transition to remote teaching from home.

BACKGROUND: The higher education institutions worldwide have been transformed unexpectedly to online teaching. This sudden movement from blended learning or traditional face-to-face teaching has severely disrupted university activities and posed many challenges for teaching staff, who were asked to develop online versions of their courses overnight. This study explores the effect of the current changes in education style and working from home on the stress and burnout levels of teaching staff. METHODS: This study utilized a cross-sectional design, whereby 278 participants (faculty and course instructors) from 17 campuses of one of the largest colleges in United Arab Emirates completed a web-based survey. Numerous instruments were utilized to obtain the following data: participants demographics; their perceived stress during online teaching; their perception of the impact of teaching from home on their family's daily life, physical health, mental health and ability to cope with stress; burnout level; and their satisfaction with online teaching. RESULTS: Around 60% of participants reported moderate stress level during online teaching (moderate stress = 5 to 8) under COVID-19 (M 6.21 ± 2.26). An independent sample t-test and ANOVA tests revealed that participants with 7-10 years of online teaching experience reported more stress than participants who have 4-6 years online teaching experience (M 7.29, ±1.11 Vs. 5.30, ±2.69; P = 0.04). Moreover, multiple regression analysis showed that higher stress levels and lower satisfaction with the online teaching experience were associated with more significant personal and working burnout. Married participants with school-age children were at greater risk of personal burnout. CONCLUSION: The transition to remote education imposed mental burdens and stress on faculty members. Supportive professional development strategies to enrich faculty with online teaching skills are urgently required.

Nurses' perceived knowledge and benefits of artificial nutrition and hydration for patients nearing death: A survey among Jordanian nurses.

OBJECTIVE: Existing research highlights the importance of nurses' knowledge and attitudes towards the provision of artificial nutrition and hydration (ANH) for patients with advanced cancer; however, the perspectives of Arabic and Islamic nurses have not yet been investigated. Therefore, we aimed to examine Jordanian nurses' knowledge, attitudes and perceived benefits in providing ANH for patients with advanced cancer. METHOD: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed. RESULTS: Participants comprised 183 nurses (93.5% response rate). Around 80% received no training on ANH. Nurses had poor knowledge regarding ANH, with a mean score of 5.12 (SD=2.27) out of 15. Overall, nurses had positive attitudes towards ANH care (M = 3.09, SD = 0.29); however, the subscale analysis showed that nurses held inconspicuous beliefs about ANH benefits (M = 2.67, SD = 0.71) and strongly believed that ANH places a high burden on patients (M = 3.50, SD = 0.69). Nurses from government hospitals showed significantly higher ANH knowledge, as well as positive beliefs regarding ANH benefits, compared to less educated nurses. CONCLUSION: Jordanian nurses have limited knowledge of ANH. Their positive attitude regarding ANH for terminally ill patients could be driven by cultural norms and beliefs, rather than education. Introducing ANH in nursing curricula and in-hospital services could have a positive impact on nurses' knowledge.

Health-related quality of life and associated factors in Jordanian cancer patients: A cross-sectional study.

Understanding the factors associated with patients' health-related quality of life along with their social networks can help identify who may benefit from supportive programmes. This study sought to evaluate the impact of a cancer diagnosis on Jordanian cancer patients' health-related quality of life and its relationship with social support and emotional status. A descriptive design was utilized, and 226 clients were participated. Participants completed European Organization for Research and Treatment of cancer quality of life questionnaire (EORTC-version 3), the Hospice Comfort Questionnaire, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale. The results revealed that participants demonstrated unsatisfactory quality of life and many complained of fatigue. A multiple linear regression analysis revealed that social support, hospitalization readmission and being a nonsmoker were significant predictors for poor global quality of life score. In addition, a high educational level, less rehospitalization and high anxiety and depression scores were significant predictors for comfort level. In conclusion, patients with cancer are at an elevated risk of impaired physical functioning and report unsatisfactory quality of life, particularly if they are anxious, depressed and lack social support. The associated factors with decreased quality of life or low comfort level could be amenable to change with appropriate interventions.

Are users of modern and traditional contraceptive methods in Jordan different?

BACKGROUND: The level of current use of modern family planning is the most widely used indicator for evaluating the success of national family planning programmes. Recently the prevalence of traditional methods has increased in Jordan, which may lead to undesired pregnancy. AIMS: The main objective of the study was to assess the trends of modern and traditional contraceptive use in Jordan with a focus on examining the differences between the users of each method. METHODS: A secondary data analysis of the Jordan 2012 Population and Family Health Survey data was carried out. The survey used a multistage cluster random sample. Bivariate analysis was conducted to identify the difference between modern and traditional contraceptive users. A logistic regression model was used to study significant covariates. RESULTS: Among 10 801 currently married women aged 15-49 years surveyed, 38.8% were not using any contraceptive method, 18.9% used traditional methods, and 42.3% relied on modern contraceptive methods. Logistic regression analysis revealed 4 significant predictors of using modern contraceptive methods: location in Central Region, residence in urban areas, age and parity. CONCLUSION: Women, particularly those resident in the southern region, should be encouraged to use modern contraceptive methods and this may be achieved by empowering them with more information about sources of these methods that are available to them. Family planning interventions should focus on younger and high parity women as they were more likely to use traditional methods.

Perceived learning needs according to patients who have undergone major coronary interventions and their nurses.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to identify the differences in perceived learning needs between cardiac patients who have undergone major coronary interventions and their nurses. BACKGROUND: The decrease in length of stay after cardiac interventions has signalled an urgent need to provide effective in-hospital health education. Therefore, the content of health education should bridge the gap between nurses' and patients' views of what information is important for ensuring patients' optimum recovery. DESIGN: A descriptive comparative design was employed. METHODS: Patients were invited to participate if they had undergone angioplasty or bypass surgery and were ready for discharge within 24-48 hours. A convenience sample of 365 cardiac patients and 166 cardiac nurses participated in this study. Baseline data on patients' and nurses' sociodemographics, clinical history and experience were collected through personal interviews. Then, participants completed the Patient Learning Needs Scale to identify their perceptions of the learning needs after cardiac interventions. RESULTS: The top-priority learning needs according to both patients and cardiac nurses was information on wound care and medication. In contrast, the lowest-priority learning need was physical activity. Nurses perceived information about physical activity as most needed to patients, whereas patients perceived information about medications, postintervention complications and postintervention concerns as mostly needed. CONCLUSION: The disparity between perceptions of patient and nurses on the essential content to be learned highlights the importance of considering both of these parties when establishing health education programmes. In addition, nurses should focus more on information related to the recovery period and immediate needs after discharge. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: Information about wound care, medication and potential complications should be the core of predischarge education programmes. In addition, nurses should focus on improve patients' awareness of secondary prevention and lifestyle modification, as patients pay less attention to these vital topics.

Patients' Adherence to Healthy Behavior in Coronary Heart Disease: Risk Factor Management Among Jordanian Patients.

BACKGROUND: Poor adherence to risk factor management behaviors for coronary heart disease (CHD) patients increases the risk for a further cardiac event. There is a scarcity of literature about the level of adherence to risk factor management behaviors after CHD diagnosis in Jordan. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to explore which demographic, psychosocial, and clinical factors predict better adherence to risk factor management behaviors, particularly smoking cessation, physical activity, healthy diet, and medication adherence. In addition, we sought to explore the association of poor adherence to hospital readmission. METHOD: A cross-sectional survey was performed using a sample of 350 patients who visited the outpatient clinics in 4 hospitals in Jordan. RESULT: Data were obtained from 254 patients (response rate, 73%). Most were overweight (47.8%) or obese (28.5%), and 30% remained smokers after CHD diagnosis; 53 (21.5%) described themselves as ex-smokers. One-third of participants (88, 34.8%) performed regular walking exercise. Only 16% of participants reported that they had been instructed to perform regular activity. Stepwise multiple regressions revealed younger age and lower body mass index as independent predictors for more physical activity. Only 51 (20.9%) reported always following a low-fat dietary regimen, and participants who received dietary recommendation advice were significantly more likely to be on a healthy diet (odds ratio, 10.3; 95% confidence interval, 3.79-30.80; P < .001). Most of the participants (183, 72%) reported low medication adherence (score ≤6), based on the Morisky scale, and only 5 (2%) reported a high adherence score (score = 8). Male gender and having chronic back pain were independent predictors for better medication adherence. About one-third of participants had been hospitalized for cardiac reason at last 2 times in the past 12 months. Rehospitalization was significantly more common among patients who were not following a dietary regimen (Mann-Whitney Z = -2.54, P = .011) or regular physical activity (Mann-Whitney Z = -3.60, P = .001) and in those who had more comorbidity diseases (r = 0.34, P = .001). CONCLUSION: Our findings highlight poor adherence to secondary prevention behaviors among Jordanian CHD patients. Most participants did not adopt healthy behaviors in managing their CHD risk factors and they demonstrated a higher risk of hospital readmission. There is an urgent need for aggressive and targeted strategies to enhance adherence levels.

Exploring Palliative Care Needs Among Patients With Cancer and Non-Cancer Serious Chronic Diseases: A Comparison Study.

BACKGROUND: Palliative care (PC) is integral to improving the quality of life and mitigating suffering for individuals with serious illnesses. This interdisciplinary-led study aims to comprehensively evaluate the prevalence of distressing problems and unmet needs among both cancer and non-cancer chronic disease patients and explore their need for PC. METHODS: A cross-sectional, comparative, and multicenter design was conducted, involving 458 patients from eight hospitals, utilizing a self-reported Problems and Needs in Palliative Care-sv questionnaire. RESULTS: The study included 276 (60.3%) patients with cancer and 182 (39.7%) with non-cancer chronic diseases. Most were 45-64 years old (n = 216, 47.2%). Patients with cancer reported a higher prevalence of physical symptoms, notably pain (n = 240, 87%) and anorexia (n = 192, 69.6%), while non-cancer patients faced more social challenges, including issues in companion relationships (n = 77, 42.3%) and discussing their disease with life companion (n = 78, 42.9%). Unmet needs were prevalent in both groups, with cancer patients having an average of 75.6% (n = 120) unmet needs, predominantly in the information (n = 145, 91.75%) and spiritual domains (n = 123, 77.8%). Non-cancer patients emphasized financial (n = 71, 66.6%) and autonomy (n = 59, 55.0%) problems. Moreover, patients in both groups with severe Charlson Comorbidity Index scores demonstrated significantly higher PC needs across all health domains. CONCLUSION: The study highlights the universal demand for comprehensive PC for patients with both cancer and non-cancer chronic diseases. The findings underscore the need for enhanced PC provision, especially for patients with multiple comorbidities. Further research is needed to comprehensively address psychological, social, and spiritual problems in both patient groups.

Examining the association between emotional intelligence and chatbot utilization in education: A cross-sectional examination of undergraduate students in the UAE.

Background: While Emotional Intelligence (EI) demonstrably affects academic success, literature lacks exploration of how implementing chatbot in education might influence both academic performance and students' emotional intelligence, despite the evident potential of such technology. Aim: To investigate the associations between Emotional Intelligence (EI), chatbot utilization among undergraduate students. Methods: A cross-sectional approach was employed, utilizing a convenience sample of 529 undergraduate students recruited through online questionnaires. The participants completed the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire and modified and a modified versions of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model. Results: of the 529 participants, 83.6 % (n = 440) of participants regularly used chatbot for learning. Students demonstrated a moderate average EI score (129.60 ± 50.15) and an exceptionally high score (89.61 ± 20.70) for chatbot acceptance and usage. A statistically significant (p < 0.001) positive correlation was found between chatbot usage frequency and EI total score. Gender and major emerged as significant factors, with female students (p < 0.05) and health science students (p < 0.05) utilizing chatbot less compared to male and other major students, respectively. A negative correlation (r = -0.111, p = 0.011) was observed between study hours and chatbot usage, suggesting students with higher study hours relied less on chatbot. Conclusions: The positive correlation between chatbot use and EI in this study sparks promising avenues for enhancing the learning experience. By investing in further research to understand this link and integrate AI tools thoughtfully, policymakers and educators can cultivate a learning environment that prioritizes both academic excellence and student well-being, reflecting the values and perspectives of UAE culture.

The lived experiences of healthcare professionals working in pre-hospital emergency services in Jordan: A qualitative exploratory study.

INTRODUCTION: Globally, injuries account for 9% of all deaths, with road accidents contributing to approximately a quarter of these fatalities. A major concern is the inadequacy of pre-hospital care (emergency medical services provided before arrival at a hospital) and delays in transportation to medical facilities, identified as leading causes of preventable injury-related deaths. This study explores the experiences of emergency health professionals (EHPs) in peri-hospital services (emergency medical services provided immediately upon arrival and within the hospital setting). METHODS: A qualitative exploratory design, underpinned by Van Manen's (1990) descriptive phenomenological principles, was used. Thirty EHPs from five central and southern Jordanian emergency departments were purposefully sampled, including physicians, nurses, and paramedics from both emergency departments and pre-hospital services. RESULTS: Two primary themes emerged: (1) In Search of Clarity: The Unsettled Journey of Pre-hospital Emergency Care Providers; (2) Frustrations on the Frontline: Role Ambiguity and Emotional Exhaustion in Trauma Care, with EHPs reporting fluid and unclear roles, physical and verbal abuse, and limited authority in critical interventions. CONCLUSION: The study highlights several service lapses in peri-hospital care that negatively impact healthcare professionals, posing risks to patient safety. These findings urge decision-makers to devise actionable strategies to rectify these deficiencies, enhancing care quality and thereby decreasing injury-induced mortality and morbidity.

A comparative study of readiness and confidence in online teaching among faculty members in health and non-health colleges within the United Arab Emirates.

INTRODUCTION: This study explores and compares the levels of readiness and confidence among faculty members in health and non-health colleges regarding online teaching in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study adopted a cross-sectional research design and utilized a comprehensive survey instrument. A convenience sampling method was employed to enlist 412 faculty members from varied academic disciplines, comprising 278 from non-health programs and 134 from health programs. These participants offered valuable insights into their levels of preparedness and confidence for engaging in online teaching. RESULTS: The study uncovered nuanced differences in readiness and confidence levels between health and non-health colleges regarding online teaching preparedness. Significant gender-based variations were found, with female participants in health colleges reporting lower readiness (mean = 4.13) and confidence (mean = 4.11) compared to their counterparts in non-health colleges (mean = 4.43; mean = 4.52) (out of 5) (P < 0.05). Male participants in non-health colleges demonstrated higher readiness and confidence (P < 0.05). Academic rank and teaching experience (>5 years) positively influenced readiness and confidence (P < 0.05). Marital status, spouse working status, and years teaching online showed no significant differences. Teaching multiple online courses before and during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic significantly enhanced readiness and confidence (P < 0.05). Professional development before and during the COVID-19 pandemic did not yield significant differences. CONCLUSION: The study contributes to the existing literature on online education, offering valuable insights into the specific challenges and opportunities faced by faculty in health and non-health colleges. The results inform decision-making processes for educational institutions and policymakers in the UAE, emphasizing the evolving global landscape of online teaching.

Pressure ulcers in Jordan: a snapshot survey of a tertiary public hospital.

BACKGROUND: Patients are at risk of developing pressure ulcers while they are hospitalised. These risks need to be managed effectively to avoid harm and to minimise costs. OBJECTIVE: This study was aimed at determining the prevalence and incidence of pressure ulcers at selected acute clinical settings in central Jordan. DESIGN: A cross-sectional survey design. METHOD: An inpatient snapshot survey was conducted over 4 weeks in the two medical wards in a tertiary public hospital. RESULTS: 190 participants were surveyed, 30 cases were identified, 53% were male, and 75% were aged 60 years or older. Prevalence was 24%, approximately half of the cases were grade 2 and 23% were grade 3 and 4. Pressure ulcers were mainly found on the sacrum (43%), followed by the heel (24%). Over 4 weeks, 29 new pressure ulcer cases were identified; 55% were male, and 90% were aged 60 years or older. Pressure ulcers were mainly-in 38% of cases-identified with cerebral vascular accident patients. CONCLUSION: The results of the snapshot survey confirmed that there is a problem with maintaining patients' safety in terms of patients acquiring pressure ulcers in hospital. The number of pressure ulcers indicate less-than-optimal management of patient safety, which requires a more detailed investigation.

Successful Treatment of Chronic Disseminated Candidiasis Complicated by Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome in a Child With Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia.

Chronic disseminated candidiasis (CDC) is a severe form of disseminated fungal infection that commonly affects the liver, spleen, and kidneys. In rare cases, CDC can be further complicated by an excessive immune response known as immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). This syndrome occurs during the phase of immune recovery and is characterized by a systemic inflammatory response and excessive release of cytokines. We present a case of a two-year-old female with a medical history of acute lymphocytic leukemia on chemotherapy. She was admitted with high fever refractory to conservative management that included broad-spectrum antimicrobials. Additionally, multiple skin lesions and a left-sided limp were noted. Whole-body imaging revealed multiple abscesses in the spleen, kidneys, scalp, and left lower limb. The culture of an aspirate material from skin lesions grew Candida tropicalis. Despite receiving appropriate antifungals, the patient showed no signs of improvement, leading to the diagnosis of CDC-induced IRIS. The patient was started on systemic corticosteroids, which resulted in rapid improvement in the patient's clinical status, resolution of fever, and significant reduction in inflammatory markers.

Experience of Health Professionals in Caring for Patients With Chest Trauma: A Qualitative Study.

BACKGROUND: The variation in the implementation of chest trauma (CT) management's guidelines led to inconsistent and mixed experiences toward CT management by the health care team. Moreover, there is a scarcity of studies exploring factors that enhance CT management experiences worldwide and in Jordan. OBJECTIVES: The aims of this study were (1) to explore emergency health professionals' attitudes and experiences toward CT management and (2) to understand factors that affect the care for patients with CTs among emergency health professionals. METHODS: A qualitative exploratory approach was adopted in this study. Individual, semistructured, face-to-face interviews were conducted with 30 emergency health professionals (physicians, nurses, and paramedics) from government emergency departments, military, private hospitals, and paramedics from the Civil Defense in Jordan. RESULTS: The results showed that emergency health professionals had negative attitudes toward caring for patients with CTs due to a lack of knowledge and clarity in their job description and duties assigned to them. Moreover, some organizational and training factors were discussed for their impact on the attitudes of emergency health professionals toward caring for patients with CTs. CONCLUSIONS: Lack of knowledge, absence of clear guidelines and job descriptions for dealing with traumas, and lack of continuous training on caring for patients with CTs were the most common reasons for negative attitudes. These findings can assist stakeholders, managers, and organizational leaders in understanding health care challenges and provoke a more focused strategic plan to diagnose and treat patients with CT.

The need of patients living with cancer for palliative care.

BACKGROUND: A comprehensive assessment of patients' problems and needs is essential for all patients with chronic diseases, including cancer. AIM: This study assesses the problems, unmet needs and requirement for palliative care (PC) among patients with cancer. METHOD: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed using a valid self-reported questionnaire. RESULTS: On average, 62% of patients had problems that were unresolved. The need for patients to have more information about their health was identified (75.1%), followed by financial problems because of the illness and ability to afford healthcare (72.9%), and psychological issues, such as depression, anxiety and stress (67.1%). Patients stated that their spiritual needs were not being met (78.8%), and that they were experiencing psychological distress and problems with daily living that needed to be addressed through PC (78%, 75.1%, respectively). A chi-square test revealed that all problems are significantly associated with the need for PC (P<.001). CONCLUSION: Patients needed more assistance in psychological, spiritual, financial and physical domains, and this can be provided by palliative care. Palliative care in low-income countries is a human right for patients with cancer.

Social cognitive elements of mental illness stigma among healthcare professionals currently working in general hospitals: A cross-sectional study from Jordan.

AIM: To assess the social cognitive elements of the stigma of mental illness (knowledge, attitudes and behaviours) among healthcare professionals (HCPs) in Jordan. DESIGN: A cross-sectional descriptive design. METHODS: A total of 206 HCPs were conveniently recruited from general hospitals in Jordan. The mental attitude, knowledge and intended behaviours scales were used to measure stigma elements. RESULTS: Participants reported a moderate level of knowledge, a moderate negative attitude and a moderate or not greater interest to deal with people with mental health illnesses. The bivariate correlation revealed a negative significant correlation between HCPs' knowledge and attitude, indicating that HCPs with more knowledge significantly have more positive attitude (lower average score) towards those suffering from the illness. A more significant correlation was found between HCPs' knowledge and behaviour. The HCPs who had more knowledge were holding more interest and willingness towards dealing with persons with mental illness. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: Negative attitudes among HCPs demand awareness programmes pertaining to the stigma of mental illness to afford higher standards of practice for patients with mental problems.

Mental health, learning behaviour and perceived fatigue among university students during the COVID-19 outbreak: a cross-sectional multicentric study in the UAE.

BACKGROUND: The rapid shift to online education due to COVID-19 quarantine challenged students' ability to accept pure online learning without negative consequences for their physical, emotional and mental health. Some educational institutions introduced new strategies to reduce the psychosocial burden associated with online learning during home confinement. Thus, the primary aims were to determine the consequences of COVID-19 for the psychological well-being and fatigue levels of higher education students and to explore the effects of a new academic assessment approach in reducing home confinement stress. METHOD: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among students, from 30 August to 30 September 2020, of 7 disciplines in all 16 higher colleges of technology in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The Mental Well-being and Learning Behaviours Scale and the modified Copenhagen Burnout Inventory were used to evaluate students' psychological well-being and fatigue levels. A Welch t-test and Welch ANOVA were performed to determine the differences in perceived psychological well-being associated with students' characteristics. Second, Kruskal_Wallis and Mann_Whitney were performed to determine the differences in fatigue level based on students' characteristics. RESULTS: One thousand four hundred students participated. The majority were female (78.5%) and aged from 21-25 years (58.1%). Around 14% of respondents were married with children. Nearly 40% were satisfied with the new assessment approach introduced during the COVID pandemic and 45.5% perceived it as having reduced their home confinement stress. The mean psychological distress score of 3.00 (SD ± 0.71) indicates a moderate impact of COVID-19 on psychological well-being. Students' psychological distress was positively correlated with fatigue level (0.256, p < 0.001) and negatively correlated with the perceived impact of the new assessment approach on student lifestyle (- 0.133, p < 0.001), physical health (- 0.149, p < 0.001) and coping with stress (- 0.125, p < 0.001). Male students experienced significantly lower fatigue and better psychological well-being than female students. CONCLUSION: The study reveals that new assessment approaches which emerged during home confinement reduced students' perception of stress and of impaired lifestyle. However, students still had a considerable burden of psychological distress, requiring further preventive measures to maintain their psychological well-being during future outbreak events. Educational institutions should consider additional strategies to improve students' preparedness for online teaching, which could help maintain their psychological well-being.

Knowledge of Critical Care Nurses about End-of-Life Care towards Terminal Illnesses: Levels and Correlating Factors.

INTRODUCTION: The preparedness of nurses in relation to providing palliative care is not always adequate, indeed, it is sometimes unsatisfactory; this may be caused by lack of knowledge and limited experience in end-of-life care (EOLC). Thus, this study purposed to assess the levels of registered nurses' knowledge about EOLC, examine the relationships between EOLC knowledge and some demographic variables, and explore predictors of EOLC knowledge. METHODS: A cross-sectional design survey was conducted with Jordanian registered nurses in critical care units (N = 175) in different heath sectors in Jordan. The End-of Life Professional Caregiver Survey (EPCS) was used. RESULTS: Findings showed that nurses had moderate/quite a lot of knowledge (M (SD) = 2.58 (.48)) about EOLC. The cultural and ethical values was the highest subscale of knowledge about EOLC (M (SD) = 2.74 (.52)), while effective care delivery subscale was the lowest one ((M (SD) = 2.33 (.66). Knowledge about EOLC was correlated with age (r = .145, P < .05), work experience (r = .173, P < .05), and training course in palliative or EOLC (r = .217, P < .01). The main predictor of EPCS was training courses in palliative or EOLC (B = .190, P < .05). CONCLUSION: The nurses need to enhance their knowledge about EOLC and correlating factors should be taken into consideration when developing any intervention program. Nurses need palliative care training courses; also more attention is required in palliative care education particularly in clinical skills in effective care delivery.

Arab nursing students' perception of the emotional experience of patient care: A phenomenological study.

BACKGROUND: A shared emotional response helps with understanding what other people are feeling and/or thinking; and it is a vital skill in clinical settings. Collectivist communities place more emphasis on the emotional components of their feelings in comparison to the cognitive aspects of their emotions. PURPOSE: This study aimed to explore the emotions experienced by students at their first clinical placement. METHODS: A hermeneutic phenomenological approach was used among nine baccalaureate students. RESULTS: Three major themes emerged from the data: overwhelming emotions; unbalanced perception of professional identity; and adjustment and adaptation. CONCLUSIONS AND DISCUSSION: It is evident that nursing students from collectivist communities encounter challenges in dealing with their emotions and managing their patients' emotions; however, they were capable of empathizing with their patients using the two components of their empathy; affective (emotion) and cognitive (cognition), with prominence given to the affective part. As countries become increasingly multi-cultural, which in turn influences the characteristics of people entering pre-registration nursing programs, nursing leaders are invited to address both dimensions of empathy as part of the nursing curriculum. Attention should also be given in clinical settings to appropriate channeling of clinical empathy to cultivate a professional identity.