Selecting patients to admit at the ICU is crucial. The SAPS II and APACHE II scores have been used to choose appropriate patients to the ICU particularly in resource limited setting. However, which score is the best predictor is still debating.
Objective
To compare both scores in regards of ICU mortality prediction.
Methods
This was a retrospective cohort study at xx Hospital between Jan 1, 2016 to Jan 1, 2017. The inclusion criteria were consecutive adult patients who admitted and treated at the ICU. Those patients who admitted at the ICU for procedures such as hemodialysis were excluded. Clinical factors including SAPS II and APACHE II were studied. The primary outcome was death at the ICU. Independent factors associated with mortality were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression analysis. For significant scores to predict mortality, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was executed to calculate diagnostic properties of each cut off points.
Results
During the study period, there were 201 eligible patients. Of those, 98 patients (48.76 %) died. Those who died had higher average SAPS II score and APACHE score than those who were survived significantly (49.76 vs 30.61; p value < 0.001; 23.88 vs 20.62; p value 0.016). There were three independent factors associated with mortality including SAPS II score, male sex, and sepsis with adjusted odds ratio (95 % CI) of 1.04 (1.02, 1.07), 2.10 (1.08, 4.06), and 2.33 (1.09, 4.97), respectively. The SAPS II score of more than 27 gave sensitivity of 90.82 %, specificity of 16.50 %, and the area under ROC curve of 73.18 %.
Conclusion
SAPS II showed better performance than APACHE II in this population. Further studies are needed to confirm the results of this study.
选择ICU收治的患者是至关重要的。SAPS II和APACHE II评分被用于选择合适的ICU患者，特别是在资源有限的情况下。然而，哪个分数是最好的预测指标仍在争论中。目的比较两种评分对预测ICU病死率的影响。方法回顾性队列研究于2016年1月1日至2017年1月1日在xx医院进行。纳入标准为连续在ICU住院和治疗的成年患者。那些在ICU接受血液透析等手术的患者被排除在外。临床因素包括SAPS II和APACHE II。主要结局是ICU死亡。采用多变量logistic回归分析与死亡率相关的独立因素。对于预测死亡率的显著分数，执行受试者工作特征（ROC）曲线来计算每个截断点的诊断特性。结果在研究期间，共有201例符合条件的患者。其中98例（48.76%）死亡。死亡组SAPSⅱ评分和APACHE评分均显著高于存活组（49.76 vs 30.61； p值<； 0.001; 23.88 vs 20.62； p值0.016）。与死亡相关的三个独立因素包括SAPS II评分、男性和脓毒症，校正比值比（95% CI）分别为1.04（1.02,1.07）、2.10（1.08,4.06）和2.33（1.09,4.97）。SAPSⅱ评分大于27分，灵敏度为90.82%，特异度为16.50%，ROC曲线下面积为73.18%。结论sapsⅱ在该人群中的疗效优于APACHEⅱ。需要进一步的研究来证实本研究的结果。
{"title":"SAPS II or APACHE II is better to predict mortality in patients admitted at ICU","authors":"Seksan Chaisuksant , Pavinee Noinard , Watchara Boonsawat , Kittisak Sawanyawisuth","doi":"10.1016/j.ijans.2026.100979","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijans.2026.100979","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Selecting patients to admit at the ICU is crucial. The SAPS II and APACHE II scores have been used to choose appropriate patients to the ICU particularly in resource limited setting. However, which score is the best predictor is still debating.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To compare both scores in regards of ICU mortality prediction.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This was a retrospective cohort study at xx Hospital between Jan 1, 2016 to Jan 1, 2017. The inclusion criteria were consecutive adult patients who admitted and treated at the ICU. Those patients who admitted at the ICU for procedures such as hemodialysis were excluded. Clinical factors including SAPS II and APACHE II were studied. The primary outcome was death at the ICU. Independent factors associated with mortality were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression analysis. For significant scores to predict mortality, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was executed to calculate diagnostic properties of each cut off points.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>During the study period, there were 201 eligible patients. Of those, 98 patients (48.76 %) died. Those who died had higher average SAPS II score and APACHE score than those who were survived significantly (49.76 vs 30.61; p value < 0.001; 23.88 vs 20.62; p value 0.016). There were three independent factors associated with mortality including SAPS II score, male sex, and sepsis with adjusted odds ratio (95 % CI) of 1.04 (1.02, 1.07), 2.10 (1.08, 4.06), and 2.33 (1.09, 4.97), respectively. The SAPS II score of more than 27 gave sensitivity of 90.82 %, specificity of 16.50 %, and the area under ROC curve of 73.18 %.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>SAPS II showed better performance than APACHE II in this population. Further studies are needed to confirm the results of this study.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":38091,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences","volume":"24 ","pages":"Article 100979"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145938648","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected mental health worldwide, particularly among patients with the disease. Spiritual health may influence psychological resilience and adaptation. This study examined the relationship between spiritual health, depression, and anxiety in hospitalized COVID-19 patients in Iran.
Materials & Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 patients admitted to Amiralmomenin Hospital, Arak, Iran, using convenience sampling between June and December 2022. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire, the Ellison & Paloutzian Spiritual Health Questionnaire, the COVID-19 Anxiety Scale (CDAS), and the Beck Depression Inventory. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, applying descriptive and inferential statistical methods.
Results
More than half of the participants reported minimal levels of depression and COVID-19–related anxiety. Depression was significantly and positively correlated with mental anxiety (rs = 0.250, p < 0.001) and physical anxiety (rs = 0.292, p < 0.001). Religious well-being showed a statistically significant positive correlation with physical anxiety (rs = 0.143, p = 0.043), while no significant correlations were observed between religious or existential well-being and depression. Existential well-being was significantly correlated with religious well-being (rs = 0.401, p < 0.001). No significant differences in depression, anxiety, or spiritual health scores were observed according to sex or marital status.
Conclusion
Depression was associated with COVID-19–related anxiety, while spiritual health showed no significant link with depression. These findings highlight the importance of addressing mental health in hospitalized COVID-19 patients.
2019冠状病毒病大流行严重影响了全世界的心理健康，特别是患者的心理健康。精神健康可能影响心理弹性和适应能力。本研究调查了伊朗住院的COVID-19患者的精神健康、抑郁和焦虑之间的关系。材料&方法对2022年6月至12月在伊朗Arak Amiralmomenin医院住院的200例患者进行横断面研究，采用方便抽样。使用人口统计问卷、Ellison & Paloutzian精神健康问卷、COVID-19焦虑量表（CDAS）和Beck抑郁量表收集数据。数据分析采用SPSS 25版，采用描述性和推理性统计方法。结果超过一半的参与者报告了最低程度的抑郁和与covid -19相关的焦虑。抑郁与精神焦虑（rs = 0.250, p < 0.001）和身体焦虑（rs = 0.292, p < 0.001）呈显著正相关。宗教幸福感与身体焦虑呈显著正相关（rs = 0.143, p = 0.043），而宗教或存在幸福感与抑郁无显著相关。存在幸福感与宗教幸福感显著相关（rs = 0.401, p < 0.001）。根据性别或婚姻状况，没有观察到抑郁、焦虑或精神健康得分有显著差异。结论抑郁与新冠肺炎相关焦虑相关，而精神健康与抑郁无显著相关性。这些发现强调了解决住院COVID-19患者心理健康问题的重要性。
{"title":"The relationship between spiritual health and depression and anxiety among COVID-19 patients: a cross-sectional study","authors":"Razieh Mokhtari , Kamel Abdi , Mohamad Golitaleb , Ali Safdari","doi":"10.1016/j.ijans.2025.100941","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijans.2025.100941","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected mental health worldwide, particularly among patients with the disease. Spiritual health may influence psychological resilience and adaptation. This study examined the relationship between spiritual health, depression, and anxiety in hospitalized COVID-19 patients in Iran.</div></div><div><h3>Materials & Methods</h3><div>A cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 patients admitted to Amiralmomenin Hospital, Arak, Iran, using convenience sampling between June and December 2022. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire, the Ellison & Paloutzian Spiritual Health Questionnaire, the COVID-19 Anxiety Scale (CDAS), and the Beck Depression Inventory. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, applying descriptive and inferential statistical methods.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>More than half of the participants reported minimal levels of depression and COVID-19–related anxiety. Depression was significantly and positively correlated with mental anxiety (r<sub>s</sub> = 0.250, p < 0.001) and physical anxiety (r<sub>s</sub> = 0.292, p < 0.001). Religious well-being showed a statistically significant positive correlation with physical anxiety (r<sub>s</sub> = 0.143, p = 0.043), while no significant correlations were observed between religious or existential well-being and depression. Existential well-being was significantly correlated with religious well-being (r<sub>s</sub> = 0.401, p < 0.001). No significant differences in depression, anxiety, or spiritual health scores were observed according to sex or marital status.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Depression was associated with COVID-19–related anxiety, while spiritual health showed no significant link with depression. These findings highlight the importance of addressing mental health in hospitalized COVID-19 patients.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":38091,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences","volume":"24 ","pages":"Article 100941"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145938564","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
To reduce mortalities and improve outcomes for women and babies, every woman and every newborn must get routine, evidence-based care and management of complications during labour, childbirth, and the early postnatal period. This study aimed to assess midwives adherence to intrapartum evidence-based practice and factors associated with it.
Method
Institutional based cross-sectional study design was applied. Data was collected on 190 midwives via observational check list and a self-administered structured questionnaire. The collected data was entered into Epi Data version 3.1, and exported to STATA version 17 for analysis. Descriptive statistics was presented in tables and graphs. Bi-variable and multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify statistically significant variables using a cut-off p < 0.2 in the bi-variable analysis to identify candidate variables for multivariable logistic regression. AOR with 95 % confidence interval was used to declare statistically significant variables on the basis of p < 0.05 in the multivariable logistic regression model.
Result
The overall proportion of good adherence towards intrapartum evidence-based practice among Midwives was 58.42 % (95 % CI: 51.22, 65.28 %). Work experience of ≥ 5 years [AOR: 6.43; 95 %CI (3.09, 13.42)], availability of intrapartum care related guidelines in the workplace [AOR: 2.55; 95 %CI (1.16, 5.6)], internet accesses in the hospital [AOR: 2.54; 95 %CI (1.26, 5.94)], attend trainings related to intrapartum EBP [AOR: 2.46; 95 % CI (1.06, 5.7)]. Using scientific journals for health information source [AOR: 2.34; 95 % CI (1.02, 5.38)] were significantly associated with good adherence to intrapartum evidence based practice.
Conclusion
The findings have indicated that nearly three fifths of the study participants had good adherence to intrapartum evidence-based practice. Work experience, availability of intrapartum guidelines in the work place, internet access in the hospital, gaining trainings related to intrapartum care, and using scientific journals for health information sources were factors significantly associated with adherence to intrpartum evidence-based practice.
Abbreviations: AOR, Adjusted Odds Ratio; CI, Confidence Interval; COR, Crude Odds Ratio; EBP, Evidence-Based Practice; FHR, Fetal Heart Rate; SD, Standard Deviation; IV, Intra Venous; WHO, World Heath Organizations.
{"title":"Adherence to intrapartum evidence-based practice and factors associated with it among midwives; a multi-center study","authors":"Eden Bishaw Taye , Zewdu Wasie Taye , Tsion Tadesse Haile , Banchlay Addis , Mihretie Kibret Awoke , Melkie Mekonnen Bekele , Marta Berta Abadi , Haymanot Alem Muche","doi":"10.1016/j.ijans.2025.100959","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijans.2025.100959","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>To reduce mortalities and improve outcomes for women and babies, every woman and every newborn must get routine, evidence-based care and management of complications during labour, childbirth, and the early postnatal period. This study aimed to assess midwives adherence to intrapartum evidence-based practice and factors associated with it.</div></div><div><h3>Method</h3><div>Institutional based cross-sectional study design was applied. Data was collected on 190 midwives via observational check list and a self-administered structured questionnaire. The collected data was entered into Epi Data version 3.1, and exported to STATA version 17 for analysis. Descriptive statistics was presented in tables and graphs. Bi-variable and multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify statistically significant variables using a cut-off p < 0.2 in the bi-variable analysis to identify candidate variables for multivariable logistic regression. AOR with 95 % confidence interval was used to declare statistically significant variables on the basis of p < 0.05 in the multivariable logistic regression model.</div></div><div><h3>Result</h3><div>The overall proportion of good adherence towards intrapartum evidence-based practice among Midwives was 58.42 % (95 % CI: 51.22, 65.28 %). Work experience of ≥ 5 years [AOR: 6.43; 95 %CI (3.09, 13.42)], availability of intrapartum care related guidelines in the workplace [AOR: 2.55; 95 %CI (1.16, 5.6)], internet accesses in the hospital [AOR: 2.54; 95 %CI (1.26, 5.94)], attend trainings related to intrapartum EBP [AOR: 2.46; 95 % CI (1.06, 5.7)]. Using scientific journals for health information source [AOR: 2.34; 95 % CI (1.02, 5.38)] were significantly associated with good adherence to intrapartum evidence based practice.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The findings have indicated that nearly three fifths of the study participants had good adherence to intrapartum evidence-based practice. Work experience, availability of intrapartum guidelines in the work place, internet access in the hospital, gaining trainings related to intrapartum care, and using scientific journals for health information sources were factors significantly associated with adherence to intrpartum evidence-based practice.</div><div>Abbreviations: AOR, Adjusted Odds Ratio; CI, Confidence Interval; COR, Crude Odds Ratio; EBP, Evidence-Based Practice; FHR, Fetal Heart Rate; SD, Standard Deviation; IV, Intra Venous; WHO, World Heath Organizations.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":38091,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences","volume":"24 ","pages":"Article 100959"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145938569","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ijans.2025.100953
Dorothy Serwaa Boakye , Emmanuel Konadu , Emmanuel Kumah , Richard Osei Agjei , Azwihangwisi Helena Mavhandu-Mudzusi
Introduction
Nurses have been clinically involved in HIV/AIDS since the start of the epidemic. Before anti-retroviral therapy was available, nurses mobilised in various cities to care for patients in hospital units and community settings. Due to their multiple contributions to the care and management of patients infected with HIV, they are exposed to multiple risks while performing their duties. However, little is known on the rate of exposure to HIV infections among nurses in Ghana. Thus, this study aimed to ascertain the prevalence of occupational risk exposure to HIV among nurses, determine the medium of the exposures and the immediate measures taken following exposure to a suspected source.
Methods
A cross-sectional descriptive study design was conducted among registered nurses at Seventh Day Adventist Hospital, Asamang, Ashanti Region from February to March 2021. An all- inclusive sampling approach was used to invite 235 participants who satisfied the inclusion criteria and were willing to participate. Two hundred and thirty participants completed a self-administered structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed with SPSS version 20.
Results
Fifty-six percent (56%) of the nurses have been exposed to HIV at the time of the study. Needle stick injury (60.8%) was the most common mechanism for exposure. The cannular (57.85%) represented the commonest type of needle and setting up an intravenous line (IV cannulation) (33.59%) and dealing with uncooperative patients (23.44%) were the commonest procedure through which an exposure occurred. The measures taken immediately after exposure were washing the affected part under running water (97.39%), identifying the source person and their status, and reporting to the immediate supervisor or the appropriate body (90.8%). Majority adhered to the right practices of universal precaution. Injection safety was the least practiced precaution (54.9%). Of the 56% exposed to HIV sources, 61% took Post Exposure Prophylaxis and 39% did not.
Conclusion
The prevalence of occupational risk exposure to HIV was high and was mostly through needle stick injury. The high proportion of the nurses who recapped needles after use indicate the need for interventions that focuses on the provision of resources for sustained training on safe handling and disposable of needles.
自艾滋病毒/艾滋病开始流行以来，护士就参与了临床工作。在获得抗逆转录病毒治疗之前，各个城市的护士被动员起来，在医院病房和社区环境中照顾病人。由于他们对艾滋病毒感染者的护理和管理做出了多重贡献，他们在履行职责的同时面临着多重风险。然而，人们对加纳护士感染艾滋病毒的比率知之甚少。因此，本研究旨在确定护士职业风险暴露于HIV的流行程度，确定暴露的媒介以及暴露于可疑源后立即采取的措施。方法采用横断面描述性研究设计，对2021年2 - 3月在阿散蒂地区阿萨芒基督复临安息日会医院注册的护士进行调查。采用全包抽样方法，邀请了235名符合纳入标准并愿意参与的参与者。230名参与者完成了一份自我管理的结构化问卷。数据分析采用SPSS version 20。结果56%的护士在研究期间曾接触过艾滋病病毒。针刺伤（60.8%）是最常见的暴露机制。插管（57.85%）是最常见的针头类型，静脉置管（33.59%）和处理不配合患者（23.44%）是最常见的暴露方式。暴露后立即采取的措施是用自来水冲洗感染部位（97.39%），查明传染源及其状况，并向直接主管或有关机构报告（90.8%）。大多数人坚持普遍预防的正确做法。注射安全是实施最少的预防措施（54.9%）。在56%暴露于HIV源的人群中，61%采取了暴露后预防措施，39%没有。结论HIV职业危险暴露的发生率较高，且以针刺伤暴露为主。使用针头后重新盖住针头的护士比例很高，这表明需要采取干预措施，重点是提供资源，对针头的安全处理和一次性使用进行持续培训。
{"title":"Occupational risk exposure to HIV among nurses at a mission hospital in Ghana: A descriptive cross-sectional study","authors":"Dorothy Serwaa Boakye , Emmanuel Konadu , Emmanuel Kumah , Richard Osei Agjei , Azwihangwisi Helena Mavhandu-Mudzusi","doi":"10.1016/j.ijans.2025.100953","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijans.2025.100953","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Nurses have been clinically involved in HIV/AIDS since the start of the epidemic. Before anti-retroviral therapy was available, nurses mobilised in various cities to care for patients in hospital units and community settings. Due to their multiple contributions to the care and management of patients infected with HIV, they are exposed to multiple risks while performing their duties. However, little is known on the rate of exposure to HIV infections among nurses in Ghana. Thus, this study aimed to ascertain the prevalence of occupational risk exposure to HIV among nurses, determine the medium of the exposures and the immediate measures taken following exposure to a suspected source.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A cross-sectional descriptive study design was conducted among registered nurses at Seventh Day Adventist Hospital, Asamang, Ashanti Region from February to March 2021. An all- inclusive sampling approach was used to invite 235 participants who satisfied the inclusion criteria and were willing to participate. Two hundred and thirty participants completed a self-administered structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed with SPSS version 20.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Fifty-six percent (56%) of the nurses have been exposed to HIV at the time of the study. Needle stick injury (60.8%) was the most common mechanism for exposure. The cannular (57.85%) represented the commonest type of needle and setting up an intravenous line (IV cannulation) (33.59%) and dealing with uncooperative patients (23.44%) were the commonest procedure through which an exposure occurred. The measures taken immediately after exposure were washing the affected part under running water (97.39%), identifying the source person and their status, and reporting to the immediate supervisor or the appropriate body (90.8%). Majority adhered to the right practices of universal precaution. Injection safety was the least practiced precaution (54.9%). Of the 56% exposed to HIV sources, 61% took Post Exposure Prophylaxis and 39% did not.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The prevalence of occupational risk exposure to HIV was high and was mostly through needle stick injury. The high proportion of the nurses who recapped needles after use indicate the need for interventions that focuses on the provision of resources for sustained training on safe handling and disposable of needles.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":38091,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences","volume":"24 ","pages":"Article 100953"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145977120","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ijans.2026.100995
Iyus Yosep , Shelly Iskandar , Ai Mardhiyah , Muhammad Rasyid Ramdhani , Rohman Hikmat
Objective
To evaluate the effect of the ROOTS Program on improving empathy and reducing bullying perpetration among Grade XI high school students in Bandung City, Indonesia.
Methods
A quasi-experimental pretest–posttest control group design was conducted with 120 students (intervention n = 60; control n = 60) purposively recruited from two public high schools in Bandung City. The intervention consisted of eight weekly sessions (60–90 min each) delivered using a structured peer-led approach with trained peer leaders under school supervision. Empathy was measured using the Basic Empathy Scale (BES) and bullying perpetration using the Adolescent Peer Relations Instrument (APRI). Intervention effects were examined using ANCOVA (posttest as the dependent variable; group as the independent variable; pretest as covariate), supported by within-group analyses and effect size estimates.
Results
Empathy increased significantly in the intervention group (BES: 2.81 ± 0.41 to 3.83 ± 0.39; p < 0.001; Cohen’s d = 2.55), while no significant change occurred in the control group (2.79 ± 0.44 to 2.85 ± 0.42; p = 0.214). Bullying perpetration decreased significantly in the intervention group (APRI: 45.2 ± 7.6 to 32.6 ± 6.9; p < 0.001; Cohen’s d = 1.72) but not in the control group (44.7 ± 7.2 to 43.5 ± 7.0; p = 0.112). ANCOVA showed significant between-group differences at posttest for empathy (F = 34.8; p < 0.001; partial η2 = 0.22) and bullying perpetration (F = 28.6; p < 0.001; partial η2 = 0.19).
Conclusion
In this Bandung City school setting, the ROOTS Program was associated with improved empathy and reduced bullying perpetration. A structured peer-led model may be considered as a feasible school-based strategy to strengthen a safe, inclusive, and prosocial learning climate.
目的评价ROOTS项目在提高印尼万隆市11年级学生共情能力和减少欺凌行为方面的效果。方法从万隆市两所公立高中择校120名学生（干预60名，对照60名）进行准实验前测后测对照组设计。干预包括每周8次（每次60-90分钟），在学校监督下，采用结构化的同伴领导方法，由训练有素的同伴领导进行。共情采用基本共情量表（BES）测量，欺凌行为采用青少年同伴关系量表（APRI）测量。采用ANCOVA（后测为因变量，组为自变量，前测为协变量）检验干预效果，并通过组内分析和效应量估计进行支持。结果干预组的病变明显增加（BES: 2.81±0.41 ~ 3.83±0.39;p < 0.001; Cohen’s d = 2.55），对照组无明显变化（2.79±0.44 ~ 2.85±0.42;p = 0.214）。干预组的欺凌行为显著减少（APRI: 45.2±7.6至32.6±6.9;p < 0.001; Cohen’s d = 1.72），而对照组则无显著减少（44.7±7.2至43.5±7.0;p = 0.112）。方差分析显示，后测共情（F = 34.8; p < 0.001；偏η2 = 0.22）和欺凌行为（F = 28.6; p < 0.001；偏η2 = 0.19）组间差异显著。结论：在万隆市的学校环境中，ROOTS项目与提高同理心和减少欺凌行为有关。结构化的同伴主导模式可以被认为是一种可行的基于学校的策略，以加强安全、包容和亲社会的学习氛围。
{"title":"The effect of the ROOTS Program on empathy and bullying behavior in high school students in Bandung","authors":"Iyus Yosep , Shelly Iskandar , Ai Mardhiyah , Muhammad Rasyid Ramdhani , Rohman Hikmat","doi":"10.1016/j.ijans.2026.100995","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijans.2026.100995","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To evaluate the effect of the ROOTS Program on improving empathy and reducing bullying perpetration among Grade XI high school students in Bandung City, Indonesia.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A quasi-experimental pretest–posttest control group design was conducted with 120 students (intervention n = 60; control n = 60) purposively recruited from two public high schools in Bandung City. The intervention consisted of eight weekly sessions (60–90 min each) delivered using a structured peer-led approach with trained peer leaders under school supervision. Empathy was measured using the Basic Empathy Scale (BES) and bullying perpetration using the Adolescent Peer Relations Instrument (APRI). Intervention effects were examined using ANCOVA (posttest as the dependent variable; group as the independent variable; pretest as covariate), supported by within-group analyses and effect size estimates.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Empathy increased significantly in the intervention group (BES: 2.81 ± 0.41 to 3.83 ± 0.39; p < 0.001; Cohen’s d = 2.55), while no significant change occurred in the control group (2.79 ± 0.44 to 2.85 ± 0.42; p = 0.214). Bullying perpetration decreased significantly in the intervention group (APRI: 45.2 ± 7.6 to 32.6 ± 6.9; p < 0.001; Cohen’s d = 1.72) but not in the control group (44.7 ± 7.2 to 43.5 ± 7.0; p = 0.112). ANCOVA showed significant between-group differences at posttest for empathy (F = 34.8; p < 0.001; partial η2 = 0.22) and bullying perpetration (F = 28.6; p < 0.001; partial η2 = 0.19).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>In this Bandung City school setting, the ROOTS Program was associated with improved empathy and reduced bullying perpetration. A structured peer-led model may be considered as a feasible school-based strategy to strengthen a safe, inclusive, and prosocial learning climate.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":38091,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences","volume":"24 ","pages":"Article 100995"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146090537","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
During lactation, consuming a diversified food is essential for the health of mothers and infants. However, most breastfeeding mothers in low-income countries rely on a monotonous staple diet, which can lead to undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and reduced productivity in future generations. Breastfeeding mothers should have a diversified diet. Despite this understanding, there is limited information on the minimum dietary diversity of breastfeeding mothers and its associated factors in the study area.
Methods
A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 632 breastfeeding mothers from March 02, 2024, to July 30, 2024. Participants were selected using simple random sampling techniques, and data were collected through a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with minimum dietary diversity, and statistical significance was declared at a p-value of < 0.05.
Results
The prevalence of minimum dietary diversity among breastfeeding mothers was 50.4%. Good nutritional knowledge (AOR = 3.3; 95% CI: 1.9–5.5), decision-making autonomy (AOR = 2.2; 95% CI: 1.3–3.9), consuming three or more meals per day (AOR = 3.3; 95% CI: 1.3–8.0), having home gardening practices (AOR = 2.8; 95% CI: 1.6–4.9), household food security (AOR = 2.6; 95% CI: 1.1–5.9), and belonging to a higher wealth index (AOR = 3.3; 95% CI: 1.6–6.8) were independently associated with achieving minimum dietary diversity.
Conclusion and recommendation
The prevalence of minimum dietary diversity among breastfeeding mothers in southeast Ethiopia was low. Higher household wealth index, maternal decision-making autonomy, consumption of three or more meals per day, household food security, home gardening practices, and good nutritional knowledge were significantly associated with achieving minimum dietary diversity. These findings highlight the need for integrated, nurse-led interventions that strengthen maternal nutrition education, promote women’s empowerment in household decision-making, and encourage regular consumption of diversified diets during pregnancy and lactation. In addition, supporting home gardening practices and improving household food security through community-based and multi-sectorial approaches may contribute to improving dietary diversity and overall maternal nutritional status among breastfeeding mothers.
{"title":"Minimum dietary diversity and associated factors among breastfeeding mothers in Yirgalem town, Southeast Ethiopia, 2024: a community-based study","authors":"Fikremariam Endeshaw , Getnet Kassahun Azene , Haimanote Abebe Geletie , Mulugeta Animaw Kahali , Mebratu Demissie , Alex Yeshaneh , Aberash Beyene Derribow , Aynalem Belay , Daniel Tsega , Abdulaziz Assefa , Mangistu Abera , Esuyawukal Mislu , Dubale Dulla Koboto","doi":"10.1016/j.ijans.2026.101005","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijans.2026.101005","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>During lactation, consuming a diversified food is essential for the health of mothers and infants. However, most breastfeeding mothers in low-income countries rely on a monotonous staple diet, which can lead to undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and reduced productivity in future generations. Breastfeeding mothers should have a diversified diet. Despite this understanding, there is limited information on the minimum dietary diversity of breastfeeding mothers and its associated factors in the study area.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 632 breastfeeding mothers from March 02, 2024, to July 30, 2024. Participants were selected using simple random sampling techniques, and data were collected through a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with minimum dietary diversity, and statistical significance was declared at a p-value of < 0.05.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The prevalence of minimum dietary diversity among breastfeeding mothers was 50.4%. Good nutritional knowledge (AOR = 3.3; 95% CI: 1.9–5.5), decision-making autonomy (AOR = 2.2; 95% CI: 1.3–3.9), consuming three or more meals per day (AOR = 3.3; 95% CI: 1.3–8.0), having home gardening practices (AOR = 2.8; 95% CI: 1.6–4.9), household food security (AOR = 2.6; 95% CI: 1.1–5.9), and belonging to a higher wealth index (AOR = 3.3; 95% CI: 1.6–6.8) were independently associated with achieving minimum dietary diversity.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion and recommendation</h3><div>The prevalence of minimum dietary diversity among breastfeeding mothers in southeast Ethiopia was low. Higher household wealth index, maternal decision-making autonomy, consumption of three or more meals per day, household food security, home gardening practices, and good nutritional knowledge were significantly associated with achieving minimum dietary diversity. These findings highlight the need for integrated, nurse-led interventions that strengthen maternal nutrition education, promote women’s empowerment in household decision-making, and encourage regular consumption of diversified diets during pregnancy and lactation. In addition, supporting home gardening practices and improving household food security through community-based and multi-sectorial approaches may contribute to improving dietary diversity and overall maternal nutritional status among breastfeeding mothers.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":38091,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences","volume":"24 ","pages":"Article 101005"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146090547","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ijans.2026.100980
Abdisalam Mahdi Hassan , Muhyadin Yusuf Dahir , Abdirahman Omer Ali , Hamda Abdirashid Ali , Yusuf Abdi Hared , Md. Moyazzem Hossain
Background
Cesarean section (CS) rates are rising globally; however, disparities exist, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) like Somalia, where healthcare access is limited. Therefore, this study aims to identify the risk factors associated with CS delivery in Somalia, with the goal of informing targeted interventions to improve maternal and child health.
Methods
This study utilized data extracted from the 2020 Somalia Demographic and Health Survey (SDHS-2020), which is a countrywide, cross-sectional study. The study comprised a total of 1208 women. The association between CS delivery and various socioeconomic and demographic factors was explored by logistic regression.
Results
The CS rate in Somalia was found to be 9.35%. Mothers aged 23–28 years (AOR: 1.20, 95% CI: 0.49, 2.92) and 29–34 years (AOR: 1.29, 95% CI: 0.29, 5.77) were approximately 1.2 times more likely to have a cesarean delivery than mothers aged 11–16 years. According to the level of education, a mother with higher education (AOR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.21, 1.11) had fewer odds of having a cesarean delivery than illiterate mothers. Mothers from the rich families have 0.39 times less odds (AOR: 0.39, 95% CI: 0.12,1.23) of undergoing CS deliveries than mothers from the poor families (0.12,1.23). Higher parity (3 + ) is associated with increased odds of CS delivery, though there is some debate in the literature about the effect of parity on CS delivery. Regional variations existed, with women in certain regions less likely to undergo CS compared to others.
Conclusion
Regional disparities in CS utilization in Somalia suggest the need for targeted interventions to improve maternal healthcare access and address regional inequalities, thereby ensuring appropriate and equitable CS utilization and ultimately improving maternal and child health outcomes. Mothers’ education should be increased to increase awareness of the negative health consequences of CS deliveries and to lessen the burden of CS deliveries.
{"title":"Risk factors of cesarean delivery among women in Somalia: evidence from the countrywide demographic and health survey","authors":"Abdisalam Mahdi Hassan , Muhyadin Yusuf Dahir , Abdirahman Omer Ali , Hamda Abdirashid Ali , Yusuf Abdi Hared , Md. Moyazzem Hossain","doi":"10.1016/j.ijans.2026.100980","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijans.2026.100980","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Cesarean section (CS) rates are rising globally; however, disparities exist, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) like Somalia, where healthcare access is limited. Therefore, this study aims to identify the risk factors associated with CS delivery in Somalia, with the goal of informing targeted interventions to improve maternal and child health.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This study utilized data extracted from the 2020 Somalia Demographic and Health Survey (SDHS-2020), which is a countrywide, cross-sectional study. The study comprised a total of 1208 women. The association between CS delivery and various socioeconomic and demographic factors was explored by logistic regression.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The CS rate in Somalia was found to be 9.35%. Mothers aged 23–28 years (AOR: 1.20, 95% CI: 0.49, 2.92) and 29–34 years (AOR: 1.29, 95% CI: 0.29, 5.77) were approximately 1.2 times more likely to have a cesarean delivery than mothers aged 11–16 years. According to the level of education, a mother with higher education (AOR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.21, 1.11) had fewer odds of having a cesarean delivery than illiterate mothers. Mothers from the rich families have 0.39 times less odds (AOR: 0.39, 95% CI: 0.12,1.23) of undergoing CS deliveries than mothers from the poor families (0.12,1.23). Higher parity (3 + ) is associated with increased odds of CS delivery, though there is some debate in the literature about the effect of parity on CS delivery. Regional variations existed, with women in certain regions less likely to undergo CS compared to others.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Regional disparities in CS utilization in Somalia suggest the need for targeted interventions to improve maternal healthcare access and address regional inequalities, thereby ensuring appropriate and equitable CS utilization and ultimately improving maternal and child health outcomes. Mothers’ education should be increased to increase awareness of the negative health consequences of CS deliveries and to lessen the burden of CS deliveries.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":38091,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences","volume":"24 ","pages":"Article 100980"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145938474","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ijans.2025.100971
Ali Safdari , Amirhossein Sharifi Kelarijani , Maryam Maddineshat
Introduction and Objective
Anticipated Nursing Care (ANC) is a fundamental element of contemporary nursing practice, vital for enhancing patient outcomes by proactively recognizing and addressing potential care needs. Despite its acknowledged importance, implementation is often challenged by systemic and contextual barriers. This study examines Iranian nurses’ experiences and perspectives on ANC, highlighting their strategies, obstacles, and adaptive approaches.
Methods
Using a conventional content analysis framework, this qualitative study purposively recruited twenty nurses from diverse clinical units across three major hospitals in Hamadan, Iran, to capture rich, varied insights. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted from February to May 2024, allowing participants to share reflections on ANC.
Results
Two main categories emerged: “Future-Focused Clinical Intelligence” and “Dynamics in Clinical Transformation”. The first category illustrated proactive strategies through the subcategory of “Pre-Emptive Nursing Responses”, “Forecasting Missed Nursing Care”, and “Defensive Strategies in Nursing Practice”. The second category highlighted nurses’ adaptability in resource-limited settings, through subcategories of “Custom Anticipatory Responses” and “Resource-Based Care Coordination”. Participants’ narratives emphasized how clinical experience, foresight, and strategic planning shape anticipatory nursing actions in everyday practice.
Conclusion
Nurses’ anticipatory and conservative practices contribute to patient safety and continuity of care, yet may occasionally impose limitations on care delivery. These findings highlight the need for supportive policies, targeted training, and further research to optimize nursing practice in complex clinical environments.
{"title":"Exploring experiences associated with anticipated nursing Care: A qualitative study","authors":"Ali Safdari , Amirhossein Sharifi Kelarijani , Maryam Maddineshat","doi":"10.1016/j.ijans.2025.100971","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijans.2025.100971","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction and Objective</h3><div>Anticipated Nursing Care (ANC) is a fundamental element of contemporary nursing practice, vital for enhancing patient outcomes by proactively recognizing and addressing potential care needs. Despite its acknowledged importance, implementation is often challenged by systemic and contextual barriers. This study examines Iranian nurses’ experiences and perspectives on ANC, highlighting their strategies, obstacles, and adaptive approaches.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Using a conventional content analysis framework, this qualitative study purposively recruited twenty nurses from diverse clinical units across three major hospitals in Hamadan, Iran, to capture rich, varied insights. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted from February to May 2024, allowing participants to share reflections on ANC.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Two main categories emerged: “Future-Focused Clinical Intelligence” and “Dynamics in Clinical Transformation”. The first category illustrated proactive strategies through the subcategory of “Pre-Emptive Nursing Responses”, “Forecasting Missed Nursing Care”, and “Defensive Strategies in Nursing Practice”. The second category highlighted nurses’ adaptability in resource-limited settings, through subcategories of “Custom Anticipatory Responses” and “Resource-Based Care Coordination”. Participants’ narratives emphasized how clinical experience, foresight, and strategic planning shape anticipatory nursing actions in everyday practice.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Nurses’ anticipatory and conservative practices contribute to patient safety and continuity of care, yet may occasionally impose limitations on care delivery. These findings highlight the need for supportive policies, targeted training, and further research to optimize nursing practice in complex clinical environments.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":38091,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences","volume":"24 ","pages":"Article 100971"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145938409","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ijans.2025.100954
Roger A. Atinga , Shahadu Shembla Sayibu , Alice Ayawine , John K. Yambah
Background
Although organisational social support systems have been shown to provide buffering effect on workload and stress association with productivity, this phenomenon remains under-explored in the midwifery profession. Drawing on literature, we hypothesised and tested the moderating effect of organisational social support on the workload, work stress and job performance linkages among Ghanaian midwives.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey design using a structured questionnaire to collect data from 219 midwives across referral hospitals in a regional health system. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlations and hierarchical multiple regression models performed from SPSS and backed by simple slope tests.
Results
We found that workload is associated with increased stress levels in midwives (β = 0.186; P < 0.01), while job performance is negatively significanlty influenced by both workload (β = -0.436; P < 0.01) and work stress (β = -0.132; P < 0.05). We further found that coworker support might be less helpful to midwives as it strengthens the positive interaction between workload and work stress (β = 0.06; P < 0.05). Both supervisor support and coworker support, however, produced statistically significant moderating effects on work stress interaction with performance (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
The findings have practical managerial and policy implications for strengthening midwifery workforce job performance by minimising risk factors of stress and using supervisor support as buffer.
虽然组织社会支持系统已被证明对与生产力相关的工作量和压力提供缓冲作用，但这一现象在助产专业中仍未得到充分探讨。根据文献，我们假设并测试了组织社会支持对加纳助产士工作量、工作压力和工作绩效联系的调节作用。方法采用横断面调查设计，采用结构化问卷收集区域卫生系统转诊医院219名助产士的数据。使用描述性统计、相关性和分层多元回归模型对数据进行分析，这些模型由SPSS执行，并以简单的斜率测试为基础。结果工作量与助产士压力水平增加相关（β = 0.186; P < 0.01），工作绩效受工作量（β = -0.436; P < 0.01）和工作压力（β = -0.132; P < 0.05）的负向影响。我们进一步发现，同事支持可能对助产士的帮助较小，因为它加强了工作量和工作压力之间的正交互作用（β = 0.06; P < 0.05）。然而，主管支持和同事支持对工作压力与绩效的交互作用产生了统计学上显著的调节作用（P < 0.05）。结论本研究结果对通过减少压力风险因素和利用主管支持作为缓冲来提高助产人员的工作绩效具有实际的管理和政策意义。
{"title":"Workload and work stress association with midwives’ job performance in Ghana: The moderating effect of organisational support","authors":"Roger A. Atinga , Shahadu Shembla Sayibu , Alice Ayawine , John K. Yambah","doi":"10.1016/j.ijans.2025.100954","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijans.2025.100954","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Although organisational social support systems have been shown to provide buffering effect on workload and stress association with productivity, this phenomenon remains under-explored in the midwifery profession. Drawing on literature, we hypothesised and tested the moderating effect of organisational social support on the workload, work stress and job performance linkages among Ghanaian midwives.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A cross-sectional survey design using a structured questionnaire to collect data from 219 midwives across referral hospitals in a regional health system. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlations and hierarchical multiple regression models performed from SPSS and backed by simple slope tests.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>We found that workload is associated with increased stress levels in midwives (<em>β =</em> 0.186; <em>P</em> < 0.01), while job performance is negatively significanlty influenced by both workload (<em>β =</em> -0.436; <em>P</em> < 0.01) and work stress (<em>β =</em> -0.132; <em>P</em> < 0.05). We further found that coworker support might be less helpful to midwives as it strengthens the positive interaction between workload and work stress (<em>β = 0</em>.06; <em>P</em> < 0.05). Both supervisor support and coworker support, however, produced statistically significant moderating effects on work stress interaction with performance (<em>P</em> < 0.05).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The findings have practical managerial and policy implications for strengthening midwifery workforce job performance by minimising risk factors of stress and using supervisor support as buffer.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":38091,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences","volume":"24 ","pages":"Article 100954"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145938647","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ijans.2025.100939
Zizipho Nomqonde , Charlene Downing
Background
Student nurses must be thoroughly prepared to assume professional responsibilities. By the time they complete their studies, they should possess a solid foundation of knowledge, critical thinking skills, and the personal qualities essential for ethical and professional behaviour. These traits are crucial for delivering competent nursing care in real-world clinical settings. As ethical challenges in clinical practice increase, developing ethical competence in student nurses becomes crucial. This preparation will equip student nurses with the demands of their future roles and help uphold high standards of care in diverse clinical environments.
Research purpose
This study aimed to explore South African student nurses’ experiences of being prepared to deliver ethically competent care.
Methods
This study employed a descriptive, qualitative design. Purposive sampling was used to recruit second, third and fourth-year student nurses. Data was collected through focus groups, case studies, and field notes. The data was analysed using thematic analysis. Ethical principles were adhered to throughout the study.
Results
The findings revealed several challenges in the delivery of ethically competent care among student nurses. Participants reported that ethically competent care was often neglected in the clinical environment, highlighting a need to return to fundamental nursing principles. They also described the difficulty of navigating ethical dilemmas, particularly when balancing patient rights with practical constraints. Furthermore, discrepancies were noted between the theoretical knowledge gained during training and its practical application in clinical settings, suggesting a gap between learning and practice.
Conclusions
This study explored student nurses’ preparedness to deliver ethically competent care. The findings highlight significant challenges in clinical settings and emphasise the need for strategies to address ethical issues. Recommendations include creating a supportive learning environment, assisting students in speaking up during dilemmas, promoting ethical awareness before clinical exposure, boosting morale, using diverse teaching methods, role-modelling ethical care, fostering collaboration between practice and academia, and encouraging student participation.
{"title":"South African student nurses’ experiences of preparedness in delivering ethically competent care","authors":"Zizipho Nomqonde , Charlene Downing","doi":"10.1016/j.ijans.2025.100939","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijans.2025.100939","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Student nurses must be thoroughly prepared to assume professional responsibilities. By the time they complete their studies, they should possess a solid foundation of knowledge, critical thinking skills, and the personal qualities essential for ethical and professional behaviour. These traits are crucial for delivering competent nursing care in real-world clinical settings. As ethical challenges in clinical practice increase, developing ethical competence in student nurses becomes crucial. This preparation will equip student nurses with the demands of their future roles and help uphold high standards of care in diverse clinical environments.</div></div><div><h3>Research purpose</h3><div>This study aimed to explore South African student nurses’ experiences of being prepared to deliver ethically competent care.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This study employed a descriptive, qualitative design. Purposive sampling was used to recruit second, third and fourth-year student nurses. Data was collected through focus groups, case studies, and field notes. The data was analysed using thematic analysis. Ethical principles were adhered to throughout the study.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The findings revealed several challenges in the delivery of ethically competent care among student nurses. Participants reported that ethically competent care was often neglected in the clinical environment, highlighting a need to return to fundamental nursing principles. They also described the difficulty of navigating ethical dilemmas, particularly when balancing patient rights with practical constraints. Furthermore, discrepancies were noted between the theoretical knowledge gained during training and its practical application in clinical settings, suggesting a gap between learning and practice.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>This study explored student nurses’ preparedness to deliver ethically competent care. The findings highlight significant challenges in clinical settings and emphasise the need for strategies to address ethical issues. Recommendations include creating a supportive learning environment, assisting students in speaking up during dilemmas, promoting ethical awareness before clinical exposure, boosting morale, using diverse teaching methods, role-modelling ethical care, fostering collaboration between practice and academia, and encouraging student participation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":38091,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences","volume":"24 ","pages":"Article 100939"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146037238","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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