Showing papers in "Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services in 2018"
TL;DR: It is essential that clinicians inquire about caregivers' perceived stress and perceived loneliness, are competent in supporting and educating caregivers, and are knowledgeable about specific resources for caregivers.
Abstract: Caregivers of individuals with dementia are at risk for chronic stress and social isolation. These exogenous factors may lead to perceived stress and perceived loneliness-psychosocial endogenous (subjective) elements of caregiving experience. Chronic stress and perceived loneliness may disrupt neuroendocrine and neuroimmunological regulation, creating low-grade systemic inflammation, promoting proinflammatory gene expression, and expediting cellular aging (endogenous physiological factors). These disturbances may enhance caregivers' risk for chronic conditions of inflammatory pathogenesis. Thus, caregivers' perceived stress and perceived loneliness may form a symptom cluster that can serve as a marker of risks for physical and mental illness. Due to the overwhelming reliance on family caregivers within the increasing population of individuals with dementia, it is essential that clinicians inquire about caregivers' perceived stress and perceived loneliness, are competent in supporting and educating caregivers, and are knowledgeable about specific resources for caregivers. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(10), 36-43.].
46 citations
TL;DR: Impulsivity and sensation-seeking personality traits are significant predictors of substance use among university students and the two predictors model was able to account for 12.4% of variation in substance use.
Abstract: The purpose of the current study was to investigate the relationship between substance use and impulsivity and sensation-seeking personality traits among 655 university students using a cross-sectional, descriptive, correlational design. A significant correlation was found between students' impulsivity level scores and frequency of substance use (r = 0.11, p < 0.05). A positive correlation was found between frequency of substance use and sensation-seeking levels (r = 0.2, p < 0.05), as well as impulsivity levels (r = 0.31, p < 0.01). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the two predictors model was able to account for 12.4% of variation in substance use. Impulsivity and sensation-seeking personality traits are significant predictors of substance use among university students. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(1), 57-63.].
34 citations
TL;DR: Nurse educators must help nursing students develop resilience to better prepare them for academic success and ensure a smooth transition into their professional nursing role.
Abstract: The purpose of the current study was to explore resilience in senior-level baccalaureate nursing students. Twenty-seven participants completed an online questionnaire assessing three stressors that pertained to marriage or divorce, death or loss of family members or close friends, and extreme financial hardship in the past 1 year. Resilience was measured using the 25-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-25) and one open-ended question about the experience of resilience. Mean CD-RISC-25 score was 73.26 (SD = 10.7; range = 45 to 96); only 33.3% of the sample was considered resilient (score >80). Qualitative data described academic stressors and support resources for resilience. Study findings underscore the relevance of resilience in nursing students. Nurse educators must help nursing students develop resilience to better prepare them for academic success and ensure a smooth transition into their professional nursing role. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(7), 46-55.].
30 citations
TL;DR: The current article entreats nurses to be leaders in achieving universal screening and provides practical actions to begin the process, which include improving training, increasing lethal means assessment, and achieving compliance with The Joint Commission suicide screening guidelines.
Abstract: American individuals attempt suicide at alarmingly high rates of approximately 1.1 million times per year. Yet the United States has failed to adopt a systematic approach to suicide prevention, particularly via universal screening. Given the increasing number of individuals with suicidal ideation presenting to emergency departments (EDs), all patients who present to the ED for treatment should be screened, as opposed to only individuals with mental health complaints. In the current article, barriers to suicide screening in the ED are discussed, as well as strategies to move ED providers toward the goal of universal screening. The current article entreats nurses to be leaders in achieving universal screening and provides practical actions to begin the process. Specific recommendations for action include improving training, increasing lethal means assessment, and achieving compliance with The Joint Commission suicide screening guidelines. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(10), 21-26.].
20 citations
TL;DR: Analysis of adolescent patients' enjoyment of and knowledge gained from game-based learning compared with an interactive lecture format on the topic of mood disorders showed that both groups had significant improvement in knowledge from pretest compared to posttest, supporting the contention that game- based learning is an active technique that may be used with patient education.
Abstract: The current study evaluated adolescent patients' enjoyment of and knowledge gained from game-based learning compared with an interactive lecture format on the topic of mood disorders. It was hypothesized that game-based learning would be statistically more effective than a lecture in knowledge acquisition and satisfaction scores. A pre-post design was implemented in which a convenience sample of 160 adolescent patients were randomized to either a lecture (n = 80) or game-based (n = 80) group. Both groups completed a pretest/posttest and satisfaction survey. Results showed that both groups had significant improvement in knowledge from pretest compared to posttest. Game-based learning was statistically more effective than the interactive lecture in knowledge achievement and satisfaction scores. This finding supports the contention that game-based learning is an active technique that may be used with patient education. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(2), 29-36.].
16 citations
TL;DR: Young adults with T1DM require strategies to help cope with stigma and the anger and distress they experience, and five main themes were identified: Desire to be Seen as a Person, Not a Disease, Wanting to be "Normal", and Feeling Distrusted by Others to Manage Their Condition.
Abstract: Young adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) often exhibit poor treatment adherence and suboptimal glucose control. Health-related stigma may adversely influence diabetes self-management behavior. The aim of the current study was to explore health-related stigma among young adults with T1DM using qualitative descriptive methods in focus groups. Data were collected from a purposive sample of 14 young adults ages 20 to 34 with T1DM. Using content analysis, transcripts from two focus groups were analyzed, and five main themes were identified: (a) Desire to be Seen as a Person, Not a Disease; (b) Wanting to be "Normal"; (c) Feeling Ashamed Managing Diabetes in Public; (d) Struggling to Overcome Anger and Distress; and (e) Feeling Distrusted by Others to Manage Their Condition. Young adults with T1DM reported experiencing a high degree of stigma in their daily lives, which negatively influenced their self-management and psychological well-being. Stigma led to delaying blood glucose monitoring and insulin dosing and feelings of anger and distress. Young adults with T1DM require strategies to help cope with stigma and the anger and distress they experience. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(10), 44-51.].
16 citations
TL;DR: The epidemiology of benzodiazepine medication use, patient and prescriber factors that contribute to overuse and misuse, and recommendations for prescribing and deprescribing are described.
Abstract: In the United States, benzodiazepine medication use is the secondary epidemic to opioid drug use and carries serious consequences as well, even though its use is enabled by well-intended clinicians. Benzodiazepine drugs are intended for short-term use, not to exceed 2 to 4 weeks; yet, it is common for clients to be taking benzodiazepine medications for up to 10 years. In addition to dependence or addiction, adverse effects include depression, emotional blunting, ataxia, aggression, irritability, nervousness, and cognitive impairment. These medications also contribute to increased risk for falls, suicide, overdose fatality, and vehicle crashes. The current article describes the epidemiology of benzodiazepine medication use, patient and prescriber factors that contribute to overuse and misuse, and recommendations for prescribing and deprescribing. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(6), 11-15.].
16 citations
TL;DR: Nurses and midwives lacked knowledge about various aspects of PPD, including its definition, prevalence, symptoms, risk factors, screening tools, and treatment, and only one third of participants were confident in their ability to provide education for women about PPD.
Abstract: The current study addresses lack of knowledge about assessment and management of postpartum depression (PPD) among nurses and midwives in Saudi Arabia. A descriptive, cross-sectional design was used to recruit a convenience sample of 181 nurses and 143 midwives. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Nurses and midwives lacked knowledge about various aspects of PPD, including its definition, prevalence, symptoms, risk factors, screening tools, and treatment. Only one third of participants were confident in their ability to provide education for women about PPD. Participants' self-confidence to educate women about PPD was significantly correlated with their level of knowledge about assessment and management of PPD. Continuing education is recommended for health care professionals to improve knowledge regarding PPD. Further studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of educational interventions on improving knowledge, practice, and self-confidence about PPD. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(12), 36-46.].
16 citations
TL;DR: Increased awareness of the clinical presentation, key features, and evidence-based treatment options will assist PMHNs to confidently recognize this often under-diagnosed disorder and adopt a more assertive role in terms of engagement and follow up.
Abstract: Psychosis symptoms (delusions and hallucinations) are multifactorial in origin and, in later life, occur in the context of schizophrenia, delirium, dementia, delusional and schizophrenia-like disorders, mood disorders, and alcohol or substance abuse. The current article provides a clinical overview of very late-onset (after age 60) schizophrenia-like psychosis (VLOSLP), summarizing the literature on treatment options and reflecting on the role of psychiatric-mental health nurses (PMHNs). Increased awareness of the clinical presentation, key features, and evidence-based treatment options will assist PMHNs to confidently recognize this often under-diagnosed disorder and adopt a more assertive role in terms of engagement and follow up. Pragmatic research involving individuals with VLOSLP is required to increase the evidence base for treatment and improve outcomes of care. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(1), 37-47.].
15 citations
TL;DR: Sex differences and socially constructed gender differences need to be adequately considered in the planning and delivery of mental health care for adolescent depression if the risk for depression is gender-specific, prevention strategies cannot be gender-neutral.
Abstract: The influence of gender and other individual and context characteristics on the prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms among Jordanian adolescents remains unclear. The aims of the current study were to: (a) characterize depressive symptoms profiles for Jordanian adolescents; and (b) examine gender differences in the type, severity, and correlates of depressive symptoms. Cross-sectional data were collected from 2,349 Jordanian adolescents ages 12 to 17 using a nationally representative school survey. The Beck Depression Inventory-II was used to assess the presence and severity of depressive symptoms. Female adolescents had significantly higher mean depression scores (17.9 [SD = 11.6], 95% confidence interval [CI] [17.3, 18.5]) than their male counterparts (13.8 [SD = 10.2], 95% CI [13.2, 14.5]). Approximately 41% of girls and 26% of boys reported scores indicating moderate to severe depression. Sex differences and socially constructed gender differences need to be adequately considered in the planning and delivery of mental health care for adolescent depression. If the risk for depression is gender-specific, prevention strategies cannot be gender-neutral. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(2), 44-55.].
14 citations
TL;DR: The epidemiology of ADHD, factors that contribute to successful treatment, and recommendations to improve nursing practice are described.
Abstract: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a childhood-onset neuro-developmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that impairs functioning of the child/adolescent. Although ADHD is the most commonly seen psychiatric disorder in childhood and adolescence, diagnosis of ADHD in children and adolescents in the United States has grown over the past 20 years, with prevalence rates increasing from 6.1% to 10.2% from 1997 to 2016. The current article describes the epidemiology of ADHD, factors that contribute to successful treatment, and recommendations to improve nursing practice. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(12), 7-10.].
TL;DR: Among at-risk students, self-control did not mediate the relation between smartphone addiction and school adjustment; among those not at risk, there was a partial mediating effect.
Abstract: Previous studies have reported associations among smartphone addiction, school adjustment, and self-control. However, the causal relationship between smartphone addiction and school adjustment has not been clearly demonstrated. The current study examined the association between smartphone addiction and school adjustment and investigated the mediating effect of self-control in this association. A total of 790 students from five high schools in Daegu City, South Korea, were asked to provide demographic information and complete a self-diagnostic smartphone addiction scale and validated Korean version of a self-control scale. Among at-risk students, self-control did not mediate the relation between smartphone addiction and school adjustment; among those not at risk, there was a partial mediating effect. To improve school adjustment among high school students, prevention of smartphone addiction seems important. Smartphone addiction could be managed by strengthening self-control to promote healthy use of smartphones. The current results can serve as groundwork for the development of programs to improve school adjustment among high school students. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(11), 28-36.].
TL;DR: The study suggests that life review is a promising psychospiritual intervention for older adults, which could be delivered as a separate program or integrated into usual care in nursing homes.
Abstract: The current study aimed to examine the effects of life review intervention on life satisfaction and personal meaning among frail older adults. Seventy-four participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group. The intervention group received the Haight Structured Life Review with modified guiding questions and memory prompts. The control group received usual nursing home care. The Life Satisfaction Index A and Purpose in Life Test questionnaires were administered at baseline and immediately after the intervention. Participants in the life review group demonstrated significant improvement in life satisfaction compared to the control group, but no significant differences in personal meaning. The study suggests that life review is a promising psychospiritual intervention for older adults, which could be delivered as a separate program or integrated into usual care in nursing homes. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(7),30-36.].
TL;DR: PsyCap (particularly for hope and optimism) had a positive effect on perceived professional benefits, and PNWE was a mediator in this relationship among Chinese nurses.
Abstract: The current descriptive cross-sectional study aimed to explore the mediating role of perceived nursing work environment (PNWE) in the relationship between psychological capital (PsyCap) and perceived professional benefits among Chinese nurses. Participants (N = 351) working in two large general hospitals in Guangdong, China completed self-report questionnaires from March to May 2017. Linear regression analyses and structural equation modeling were performed to explore the mediating effect. PsyCap (particularly for hope and optimism) had a positive effect on perceived professional benefits, and PNWE was a mediator in this relationship among Chinese nurses. A good working environment can be regarded as a mediator variable, increasing staff's competence and sense of belonging to a team. For successful implementation, nurse managers should use effective strategies to increase nurses' confidence and hope while providing a comfortable work environment. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(4), 38-47.].
TL;DR: An evidence-based anti-stigma curriculum innovation in a mental health nursing course in an undergraduate program is described and implications related to nursing and nursing education are presented.
Abstract: Stigma toward individuals with mental illness is prevalent, not only in society but also among nurses caring for this population. Such stigma contributes to health disparities, discrimination, and a lack of providers working with those who experience mental illness. An evidence-based anti-stigma curriculum innovation in a mental health nursing course in an undergraduate program is described. The curriculum change, undertaken over 2 years, included two elements: (a) contact-based education, and (b) reflective activities. For the contact-based education element, volunteers with varying mental illnesses modeling a recovery focus spoke with students and reinforced the content of that day's lecture. For the reflective element, students engaged in reflective activities regarding stigma, personal biases, and changed perceptions at three points: before, during, and after the contact-based education series. Implications related to nursing and nursing education are presented. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(5), 50-55.].
TL;DR: Metabolic side effects in inpatients using atypical antipsychotic medications in a psychiatric hospital in Turkey between June and December 2016 were evaluated and mental health nurses should inform patients of medication effects and possible side effects, monitorSide effects, and teach patients how to manage metabolic side effects.
Abstract: The current research evaluated metabolic side effects in inpatients (N = 271) using atypical antipsychotic medications in a psychiatric hospital in Turkey between June and December 2016. Data were collected via an information form created after reviewing the literature at the time of patients' hospitalization and discharge. According to the analysis, 73.8% of patients stated they experienced side effects from antipsychotic medications and 20.7% of patients experienced weight gain. A statistical difference was detected among body mass index, waist circumference, diastolic blood pressure, and heart rate during patient hospitalization and discharge. Patients using atypical anti-psychotic medications gained weight, had increased cardiovascular risk, and experienced adverse effects on their physical health during hospitalization. Mental health nurses should inform patients of medication effects and possible side effects, monitor side effects, and teach patients how to manage metabolic side effects. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(4), 28-37.].
TL;DR: The study indicates that education in psychiatry helps reduce negative attitudes toward PTSD, schizophrenia, and depression, and shows that the stigma attached to all three disorders was significantly reduced after students completed the course.
Abstract: Negative attitudes toward patients with mental illnesses are not uncommon among health professionals, and lead to poorer quality and outcomes of care. Because attitudes are formed early in life, the current study aimed to investigate if teaching psychiatry in secondary school nursing students (i.e., adolescents) changes attitudes toward three prevalent psychiatric disorders: schizophrenia, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression. A pilot quasi-experimental study was conducted with 51 fourth-year students in secondary nursing school who completed a questionnaire regarding attitudes toward these disorders on the first and last day of their Nursing in Psychiatry course. Results show that the stigma attached to all three disorders was significantly reduced after students completed the course. Students attached greater stigma to schizophrenia than PTSD, and to PTSD than depression, before and after the course. The study indicates that education in psychiatry helps reduce negative attitudes toward PTSD, schizophrenia, and depression. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(3), 45-51.].
TL;DR: It is important for nurses to understand the complex factors that influence how individuals make health care decisions and identify ways to encourage conversations with family, friends, and health care providers to help clarify patients' wishes for end-of-life care.
Abstract: Advance directives such as living wills and health care powers of attorney are important documents that offer patients ways to avoid unwanted care when they are unable to express their wishes. Although health care professionals have increased focus on advance care planning in recent years, approximately two thirds of American adults do not have advance medical directives. In addition, 90% of individuals believe that talking to loved ones about end-of-life wishes is important, but only 27% have done so. It is important for nurses to understand the complex factors that influence how individuals make health care decisions and identify ways to encourage conversations with family, friends, and health care providers to help clarify patients' wishes for endof-life care. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(1), 32-35.].
TL;DR: The overall evidence base of urgent and emergency care models is limited, with few studies in the area, and there is a need for further research.
Abstract: There is variation in the way mental health services respond to urgent and emergency presentations, with few evidence-based models reported in the literature, and no agreed on best practice models. To inform the development of urgent and emergency psychiatric care models, a literature review was performed. The review sought to identify strengths and critiques of varying models, evidence gaps, and areas for future research. After review, significant variation was found in the design and scope of urgent and emergency care models. Most models are either community or hospital based, with few integrated models that span community and hospital care. The development of integrated models has the potential to reduce service duplication and support a shift toward provision of least restrictive care. The overall evidence base of urgent and emergency care models is limited, with few studies in the area, and there is a need for further research. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(8), 23-30.].
TL;DR: It was concluded that particularly for adolescents, MI may be a valuable treatment approach grounded in partnerships with health care providers, patients, and families to enhance outpatient appointment attendance.
Abstract: Motivational interviewing (MI) is a therapeutic technique that has been demonstrated to increase adherence to various treatment regimens. Nonattendance at outpatient appointments is associated with read-mission to psychiatric hospitals. The purpose of the current study was to examine the effectiveness of MI in promoting treatment adherence and increasing pediatric attendance rates at patients' first follow-up appointment after inpatient admission. A sample of 111 patients discharged from one of two child and adolescent units at an urban, inpatient psychiatric hospital in Southwestern Pennsylvania participated in the MI discharge process. Compared to hospital population data from 1 month prior to the current study, the MI discharge process demonstrated an increase of approximately 10% in attendance at the scheduled follow-up appointments and a decrease of approximately 4% in cancellations and no-show appointments. It was concluded that particularly for adolescents, MI may be a valuable treatment approach grounded in partnerships with health care providers, patients, and families to enhance outpatient appointment attendance. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(6), 31-35.].
TL;DR: Upon completion of the project, a decrease in PRN IM medications, improvement in staff attitudes toward patient aggression, and improved sense of staff competency in handling tense situations were noted.
Abstract: Addressing tense and escalating situations with noncoercive measures is an important element of inpatient psychiatric treatment. Although restraint rates are frequently monitored, the use of pro re nata (PRN) intramuscular (IM) injections to address agitation is also an important indicator. In 2015, at the current study site, a significant increase was noted in PRN IM medication use despite unit leadership's efforts to build a culture of trauma-informed care (TIC). The purpose of the current quality improvement project was to educate staff on methods to incorporate TIC into daily practice and the use of brief solution-focused therapy techniques in escalating situations. Measurement of attitudes toward patient aggression and engagement with patients followed two waves of staff education. Upon completion of the project, a decrease in PRN IM medications, improvement in staff attitudes toward patient aggression, and improved sense of staff competency in handling tense situations were noted. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(8), 16-22.].
TL;DR: The outcomes of this project offer an important contribution to future research in the area of education about suicide prevention and care for non-psychiatric nurses, promoting safer outcomes for patients.
Abstract: Potential for suicide risk can be a safety concern for patients in all health care settings. Inadequate training of nurses in suicide assessment and prevention is a serious patient safety concern. A non-randomized pre-/postintervention research design was used to measure the effects of education on non-psychiatric nurses' perceived self-efficacy in assessment and inquiry about suicide risk and in implementing suicide prevention strategies. The intervention was an educational module about suicide prevention and care delivered to non-psychiatric nurses employed on a neuro-trauma unit in an acute care urban hospital setting. Statistically significant increases occurred in the non-psychiatric nurse's self-efficacy in caring for the patient at risk for suicide. The outcomes of this project offer an important contribution to future research in the area of education about suicide prevention and care for non-psychiatric nurses, promoting safer outcomes for patients. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(6), 43-51.].
TL;DR: The current study found that only the relationship between personal stigma and attitude toward mental health care service use was mediated by depression literacy.
Abstract: The current study used secondary data analysis to examine mediating and moderating effects of depression literacy on the relationship between depression stigma and attitude toward use of mental health care services in Korean American parents. Of 141 survey respondents, 36 (25.2%) were fathers and 105 (74.8%) were mothers. In mediation analysis, the indirect effects of personal stigma (B = -0.14, p < 0.05) and total stigma (B = -0.09, p < 0.05) were statistically significant. The moderating eff ect of depression literacy on the relationship between personal stigma and attitudes was also significant (B = -0.06, p < 0.05). The current study found that only the relationship between personal stigma and attitude toward mental health care service use was mediated by depression literacy. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(11), 46-55.].
TL;DR: The current article discusses the feelings of nursing students as they enter their psychiatric rotation, finding two major situations nursing students fear most about the psychiatric clinical setting: handling an assaultive patient and communication.
Abstract: The current article discusses the feelings of nursing students as they enter their psychiatric rotation. Most nursing students are apprehensive of the psychiatric clinical setting. After more than 25 years of teaching, observing, and listening to remarks from students, the current researchers have discovered two major situations nursing students fear most about the psychiatric clinical setting: handling an assaultive patient and communication. Students have heard stories from the media and come with preconceived ideas about the psychiatric setting. Orientation and training in these two areas before the start of psychiatric clinical rotation is key in preparing students for this experience. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, xx(x), xx-xx.].
TL;DR: First-line medications based on symptom presentation as well as augmentation and more aggressive treatment recommendations for patients who continue to experience depressive symptoms beyond 6 months of effective dose and time trials of treatment are included.
Abstract: Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) refers to depression that fails to remit after at least two to four medication and psychotherapy treatment strategies. TRD carries significant personal burden and risk for suicide and poses substantial burden to society. Less than 30% of individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder achieve complete remission of symptoms. Using the evidence-based predictors of TRD in the initial assessment of patients, clinicians can arrive at a treatment plan to improve outcomes. The current article includes first-line medications based on symptom presentation as well as augmentation and more aggressive treatment recommendations for patients who continue to experience depressive symptoms beyond 6 months of effective dose and time trials of treatment. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(9), 11-15.].
TL;DR: It is indicated that depression is more common in parents of children with ASD than in the general public and most literature addresses parenting skills rather than depression and associated self-care deficits identified in these parents.
Abstract: Parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face many challenges, not the least of which can be dealing with their own depression. Depression decreases an individual's capacity for self-care and is often overlooked in this population striving to manage the demands of parenting their child with ASD. This article examines current literature related to prevalence, diagnosis, and interventions for depression in parents of children with ASD. The review indicates that depression is more common in parents of children with ASD than in the general public. However, most literature addresses parenting skills rather than depression and associated self-care deficits identified in these parents. Suggestions for best practice models and proactive interventions to caregivers are provided. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(4), 23-27.].
TL;DR: A stigma-free approach, substance use disorder screening, medication-assisted treatment, screening and treatment of mental health disorders, and an after-birth environment that promotes maternal-child bonding are recommended.
Abstract: Opioid use disorder (OUD) in pregnancy is increasing, which often results in poor maternal and neonatal outcomes including neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) as a result of lack of prenatal care and inadequate substance use disorder management. Practice guidelines have been developed to manage OUD during and after pregnancy for mother and baby, but barriers exist, limiting comprehensive implementation. To reduce the impact of OUD in pregnancy and associated maternal and neonatal sequela, implementing compassionate evidence-based care and a non-punitive response is needed. A stigma-free approach, substance use disorder screening, medication-assisted treatment, screening and treatment of mental health disorders, and an after-birth environment that promotes maternal-child bonding are recommended. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(3), 19-23.].
TL;DR: Although nursing confidence did not differ among groups, increased scoring outcome reliability was found in groups using simulation and debriefing.
Abstract: The purpose of the current study was to determine if the amount of confidence in completing the Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale (COWS) varied among participants and whether consistency in scoring outcomes to patients occurred with COWS assessment among groups assigned to simulation and debriefing conditions. Sixty nursing staff were randomized into three groups: (a) scenario; (b) scenario and simulation; and (c) scenario, simulation, and debriefing. Staff were administered a questionnaire to assess their confidence before (i.e., pretreatment) and after (i.e., posttreatment) the simulation exercise and at 30-day follow up. The COWS assessment tool was completed by nursing staff during treatment and follow-up sessions. Significant improvements in confidence were found in all three treatment conditions. Highest consistency in scoring outcomes of the COWS to patients was found with the scenario, simulation, and debriefing condition. All participants reported having increased confidence completing the COWS. The amount of confidence among groups was not significant. Although nursing confidence did not differ among groups, increased scoring outcome reliability was found in groups using simulation and debriefing. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(10), 27-35.].
TL;DR: Poorer mental health outcomes for women with forced retirement suggest the need for careful consideration of this transition as a socially determined health factor for retired women, especially minority women.
Abstract: The aim of the current study was to examine mental health outcomes in retired women and determine whether relationships existed among mental health outcomes, sociodemographic characteristics, and type of retirement (i.e., voluntary or forced). A cross-sectional study was conducted with 80 women ages 55 and older residing in five southeastern states. Women had retired at least part-time from working outside of the home. Sociodemographic variables, diagnosis of depression, diagnosis of cognitive impairment, and health-related quality of life were assessed. Women with forced retirement had worse mental health compared to those who retired voluntarily. Minority women had higher rates of forced retirement compared with White women. Poorer mental health outcomes for women with forced retirement suggest the need for careful consideration of this transition as a socially determined health factor for retired women, especially minority women. Clinicians need to assess women for mental health indicators during the transition to retirement and provide educational and therapeutic resources to promote mental health during the transition from working life to retirement. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(7), 37-45.].