Showing 127 results for Care
Samira Khatar, Leila Mirhadyan, Homa Mosaffa Khomami, Ehsan Kazemnejad Leili,
Volume 29, Issue 1 (4-2023)
Abstract
Background & Aim: Many factors affect the hypertensive patients’ quality of life. Identifying the factors related to the quality of life can help to promote the quality of life in hypertensive patients. This study aimed to determine the predictive role of illness acceptance and social, individual factors in the hypertensive patients’ quality of life.
Methods & Materials: This correlational, cross-section study was conducted in 2020-2021 on 245 hypertensive patients referred to a hypertension clinic in Lahijan selected by the convenience sampling method. Data were collected by a questionnaire, including demographic information, Acceptance of Illness Scale and the WHO's Quality of Life-Brief questionnaire. Data were analyzed by multiple linear regression at a 95% confidence level using the SPSS software version 23.
Results: The mean score for the quality of life was 65.32±12.18 (0-100) and for the acceptance of illness was 31.83±4.98 (8-40). Age, sex, employment status, marital status, monthly income, family arrangement and the acceptance of illness were identified as the predictors of quality of life in hypertensive patients (P<0.001). According to the coefficient of determination (R2=0.401), the variables of the final regression model explained about 40% of the quality-of-life changes among hypertensive patients.
Conclusion: Given that the acceptance of illness and some social, individual factors can affect the hypertensive patients’ quality of life, focus on the strategies to promote the acceptance of illness and paying attention to social, individual factors can help improve the quality of life among hypertensive patients.
Fateme Ebrahimi, Ezzat Jafarjalal, Tahereh Najafi Ghezeljeh, Shima Haghani,
Volume 29, Issue 1 (4-2023)
Abstract
Background & Aim: Attempting to improve the quality is an important issue in the nursing service and care system. The COVID-19 pandemic has created great challenges for healthcare systems, especially for the intensive care units, which can affect the quality of nursing care provided to these patients. The aim of this study was to determine the quality of nursing care in nurses working in the intensive care unit of COVID-19.
Methods & Materials: In this descriptive-cross-sectional conducted in 2021-22, 142 nurses from Valiasr, Amir Kabir, Amir al-Momenin and Khansari hospitals affiliated to Arak University of Medical Sciences were selected by the census method. The Martins’ nursing care quality questionnaire (including 25 items in 7 domains) was completed by the participants. The SPSS software version 16 and independent t-tests, analysis of variance and the Pearson's correlation coefficient were used for the data analysis.
Results: The result showed that the mean score of the nursing care quality was 83.83±7.74, which was considered favorable due to being higher than the median score of the tool (62.5). Among the individual characteristics of nurses, the nursing care quality had a statistically significant relationship with the type of employment (P=0.003), age, work experience and work experience in the intensive care unit (P<0.001).
Conclusion: Considering the significant relationship of the nursing care quality with the type of employment, age and work experience, it is recommended that health managers take an effective step in formulating the necessary policies to improve the quality of nursing care by taking into account the experience of skilled nurses in intensive care units.
Amir Musarezaie, Soheila Pezeshkzad, Sayyed Abbas Hosseini, Mohammad Javad Tarrahi, Meysam Rezazadeh,
Volume 29, Issue 4 (1-2024)
Abstract
Background & Aim: The misuse of opioids is one of the most important problems in today's world, directly affecting the quality sleep for individuals. This study sought to explore the effect of a nursing care program, based on Roy's adaptation model, on the sleep quality of patients undergoing methadone maintenance treatment.
Methods & Materials: This randomized, single-blind clinical trial was conducted between December 2022 and March 2023, involving 60 opioid abuse patients undergoing methadone maintenance treatment at the Addiction Reduction Center in Isfahan. Convenience sampling was employed, with participants allocated randomly using random sequence generation software into the intervention group (n=30) and the control group (n=30). Data was collected using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Questionnaire. The intervention comprised a three-month nursing care program based on Roy's adaptation model, while the control group received routine treatments. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26 software, utilizing descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results: The results showed a significant decrease in the total average score of sleep quality in the intervention group after the intervention, indicating an improvement in sleep quality (P<0.001). Before the intervention, there was no statistically significant difference in the total average score of sleep quality between the intervention and control groups (P>0.05); however, a significant difference was observed after the intervention (P<0.001).
Conclusion: The findings indicate that the nursing care program based on Roy's adaptation model is effective in improving the sleep quality of patients undergoing methadone maintenance treatment. Therefore, this model can provide a promising framework for delivering care to such patients.
Clinical trial registry: IRCT20141127020108N6
Zeinab Siami, Mostafa Taheri,
Volume 30, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Abstract
Background & Aim: Family caregivers of COVID-19 patients in the Intensive Care Units (ICUs) face numerous challenges that can affect their well-being. Spiritual health represents a crucial component for coping with such stressful conditions. Therefore, this study aims to determine the relationship between spiritual health and attitude towards death in family caregivers of COVID-19 patients post-discharge from the ICUs.
Methods & Materials: This descriptive-correlational study conducted between April and November 2021, focused on family caregivers of COVID-19 patients discharged from the ICUs. The sample comprised 260 family caregivers selected through convenience and purposive sampling methods. Data collection tools included a demographic and clinical questionnaire, Polotzin and Ellison's Spiritual Health Questionnaire, and Wong's Death Attitude Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 24 encompassed chi-square tests, one-way analysis of variance and Spearman correlation coefficient.
Results: The results showed a significant inverse relationship between total spiritual health score and the total score of attitude towards death (rs=-0.101, P<0.05). The attitude towards death findings revealed fear as the highest scoring dimension, with active acceptance scoring the lowest. Moreover, religious health exhibited a significant inverse relationship with avoidance of death (rs=-0.93) and fear of death (rs=-0.64, P<0.05).
Conclusion: The study highlighted an inverse relationship between the level of religious health and negative dimensions of attitude towards death. Individuals with higher religious health scores exhibited lower average scores for negative attitudes towards death, including fear and avoidance of death. This underscores the importance of emphasizing the religious dimension within families, and among patients discharged from the ICU, showcasing the role of religion in mitigating negative attitudes towards death.
Javad Malekzadeh, Mahsa Quchani, Ahmad Bagheri Moghadam, Tahereh Sadeghi, Mohammad Rajabpour,
Volume 30, Issue 2 (6-2024)
Abstract
Background & Aim: With advancements in treatment and an increase in the prevalence of diseases, the number of patients requiring mechanical ventilation in intensive care units (ICUs) continues to rise each year. The ABCDE bundle is a multi-component, evidence-based approach designed to improve patient outcomes in the ICU. This study aimed to determine the effect of the ABCDE bundle on the risk of pressure ulcers, deep vein thrombosis and delirium in patients undergoing mechanical ventilation.
Methods & Materials: This randomized, single-blind clinical trial was conducted between September 2021 and January 2022. The sample included 100 patients undergoing mechanical ventilation in the ICU department of Imam Reza Hospital in Mashhad, who were randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group using block randomization. The intervention group received the ABCDE bundle over a period of 7 days. The control group received routine care. The criteria for assessing complications included the risk of pressure ulcers and deep vein thrombosis (DVT), evaluated at the end of the intervention and on days 0, 1, 3, 5, and 7. The study utilized several assessment tools: the COMHON Index for pressure ulcers, the Wells Deep Vein Thrombosis Scale, and the Delirium Evaluation Tool in the Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU). Data analysis was performed using SPSS software version 20, employing chi-square, Mann-Whitney, and independent t-tests.
Results: A decrease in the average pressure ulcer risk score was observed in the intervention group on day seven (P<0.05). In this group, the incidence of delirium fell decreased from 64.4% to 13.3% (P<0.05), indicating a statistically significant reduction. Additionally, the risk score for deep vein thrombosis in the control group significantly increased on day seven compared to the intervention group (P<0.05).
Conclusion: The use of the ABCDE bundle significantly reduces the risk of pressure ulcers, deep vein thrombosis, and delirium in patients undergoing mechanical ventilation and represents an effective strategy that can be implemented by nurses and other trained healthcare professionals.
Clinical trial registry: IRCT20190625044000N1
Maryam Taheri, Marziyeh Asadizaker, Simin Jahani, Mohammad Hosein Haghighizadeh, Mina Rezaei,
Volume 30, Issue 4 (1-2025)
Abstract
Background & Aim: Patients with heart failure often experience inadequate self-care and diminished quality of life, leading to significant constraints in their daily personal and social activities. This study aims to evaluate the effect of individually designed energy conservation training on enhancing self-care capabilities and improving the quality of life for patients with heart failure.
Methods & Materials: This randomized clinical trial was conducted from June 2022 to May 2023 and involved 60 heart failure patients in the CCU and cardiology ward, as well as cardiovascular clinic at Shahid Madani and Shohadai Ashayer Hospital in Khorramabad, Lorestan. Based on established inclusion criteria, participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (n=30) or the control group (n=30). The intervention group received individually designed training in four sessions, each lasting 30 minutes, spaced over three weeks (total duration of nine weeks). In contrast, the control group received standard nursing education upon discharge. Participants completed the European Heart Failure Self-Care Behavior Scale and the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire both prior to the intervention and at the tenth week post-intervention. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 24, employing the Mann-Whitney U test, Wilcoxon test, independent t-test, and chi-square tests.
Results: After the intervention, the intervention group demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in mean scores for self-care and quality of life compared to the control group (P<0.001). These findings indicate an enhancement in self-care practices and an improvement in the quality of life.
Conclusion: Individually designed energy conservation training effectively improves self-care and quality of life in patients with heart failure. Therefore, using this complication-free, non-pharmacological approach can be beneficial for this patient population.
Clinical trial registry: IRCT20220612055150N1
Mobarakeh Abbasi Firoozjah, Zahra Fotokian, Abbas Shamsalinia,
Volume 30, Issue 4 (1-2025)
Abstract
Background & Aim: Anxiety is a significant psychological concern for patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Orlando's nursing theory offers a framework for nursing interventions to mitigate this anxiety. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a nursing intervention based on Orlando's theory on the level of situational anxiety in patients undergoing CABG.
Methods & Materials: This clinical trial was conducted in 2023 at Fatemeh-Zahra Hospital in Sari. A convenience sample of 70 patients scheduled for CABG was recruited and randomly assigned to either an intervention group (n=35) or a control group (n=35). The intervention group received nursing care based on Orlando's theory the evening before surgery, in addition to standard care. The control group received only standard care. Situational anxiety was measured using the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) (assessing situational anxiety) before the intervention and again on the morning of the surgery. Data were analyzed using Fisher's exact test, Chi-square test, independent t-tests, and paired t-tests in SPSS version 21.
Results: Before the intervention, there was no statistically significant difference in mean situational anxiety scores between the intervention and control groups (t=1.31, P=0.196). However, following the intervention, a statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups (49.29±5.29 vs 59.08±6.52; P<0.001). Specifically, the intervention group demonstrated a significant reduction in situational anxiety compared to the control group.
Conclusion: The results suggest that a nursing intervention based on Orlando's theory can effectively reduce situational anxiety in patients undergoing CABG. Therefore, it is suggested that nursing managers consider implementing educational programs based on this model to address situational anxiety in CABG patients.
Clinical trial registry: IRCT20230528058319N1
Parvaneh Vasli, Zohreh Komijani, Meimanat Hosseini, Malihe Nasiri,
Volume 30, Issue 4 (1-2025)
Abstract
Background & Aim: Postoperative care presents diverse needs that affect the quality of life in children with congenital heart disease. The objective of the study was to determine the effect of a family-based care transition program on the health-related quality of life of children with congenital heart disease undergoing corrective surgery.
Methods & Materials: This quasi-experimental study involved 78 mother-child dyads diagnosed with congenital heart disease and undergoing corrective surgery at the Shaheed Rajaie Cardiovascular Hospital in Tehran. The samples were divided to one of two groups: an intervention group (n=40) and a control group (n=38). Convenience sampling was employed to select participants during the 2023-2024 period. Data were collected using the TNO-AZL Preschool Quality of Life Scale across four assessment stages. The intervention group participated in 11 sessions of the family-based care transition program, while the control group followed routine discharge protocols. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 22, employing independent t-tests, the Bonferroni test, and both one-way and two-way repeated measures analysis of variance.
Results: Within-group comparisons showed a significant increase in quality of life scores for both the intervention and control groups (P<0.001), with the intervention group indicating a more pronounced improvement. However, between-group comparisons showed no significant differences in quality of life scores at baseline, immediately post-intervention, or one month post-discharge. Notably, a significant difference was observed three months post-discharge (P=0.003).
Conclusion: The implementation of a family-based care program may improve the health-related quality of life of children with congenital heart disease undergoing surgery. These findings suggest that pediatric nurses can utilize family-centered interventions to improve the health-related quality of life of these children.
Amin Mahzoon, Khadijeh Yazdi, Shohreh Kolagari, Zahra Mehrbakhash, Fatemeh Shah Beiki,
Volume 31, Issue 1 (4-2025)
Abstract
Background & Aim: Nurses today experience high levels of fatigue that significantly impair their performance in delivering care, thereby affecting patient safety. This research aimed to determine the relationship between nurses’ compassion fatigue and alarm fatigue with patient safety in intensive care units (ICUs).
Methods & Materials: This cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical study was conducted in 2023 among 248 nurses working in the ICUs of hospitals in Golestan. A stratified sampling method with proportional allocation was employed. Data collection involved a demographic information checklist and three questionnaires assessing patient safety, alarm fatigue, and compassion fatigue. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22, with a significance level set at P<0.05. Both univariate and multiple linear regression analyses were applied.
Results: The mean scores were as follows: compassion fatigue (86.13±25.20), alarm fatigue (22.67±7.38), and patient safety (62.23±13.67). A significant correlation was found between alarm fatigue and compassion fatigue (P<0.001). However, no significant relationship was observed between compassion fatigue (r=0.101, P=0.112) or alarm fatigue (r=0.090, P=0.158) with patient safety. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed significant associations between patient safety and work experience (P=0.031), income level (P=0.012), and employment type (P=0.039).
Conclusion: Despite moderate levels of compassion and alarm fatigue, patient safety remained within acceptable ranges, indicating that nurses continued to provide safe care even amidst occupational fatigue risks.
Kolsoum Abdolahi, Soghra Rabizadeh, Shima Haghani, Amir Mohammad Chekeni,
Volume 31, Issue 1 (4-2025)
Abstract
Background & Aim: Patients with hyperthyroidism need targeted interventions aimed at improving their quality of life and increasing awareness of potential drug side effects. This study aimed to investigate the effect of an intervention based on the continuous care model on drug side effects and quality of life in patients with hyperthyroidism.
Methods & Materials: This quasi-experimental study was conducted in 2021 on 75 hyperthyroid patients attending the endocrine clinics of Imam Khomeini Hospital and Shariati Hospital in Tehran. Participants were allocated into two groups of 38 patients each, using block randomization. The intervention group received care based on the continuous care model, while the control group received routine care. Data collection employed questionnaires assessing drug side effects and quality of life, administered before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, employing both descriptive and inferential statistical methods.
Results: Analysis of covariance showed significant differences between the groups in both quality of life and drug side effects scores (P<0.001). Post-intervention, the mean quality of life scores across all dimensions were significantly higher in the intervention group compared to the control (P<0.001). Conversely, the mean scores for drug side effects and their respective dimensions were significantly lower in the intervention group following the intervention (P<0.001).
Conclusion: The findings suggest that implementing a continuous care model over a three-month period can positively influence the quality of life and decrease drug side effects among patients with hyperthyroidism.
Somayeh Mohammadi, Camellia Torabizadeh, Mostafa Roshanzadeh, Parvin Ghaemmaghami,
Volume 31, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background & Aim: Nurses’ attitudes towards death affect their caregiving practices. Spiritual intelligence, by promoting a deeper understanding of the meaning of life and death, may improve the nurses’ attitudes towards death. This study aimed to investigate the predictive role of spiritual intelligence on attitudes towards death and care for dying patients among intensive care unit (ICU) nurses.
Methods & Materials: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted in 2023 at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, involving a sample of 200 ICU nurses. Data were collected using instruments, including demographic questionnaires, the Death Attitude Profile-Revised (DAPR), King’s Spiritual Intelligence Scale, and the End-of-Life Care Assessment Scale (EOLCAS). Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 16.
Results: Correlation analysis showed a statistically significant positive relationship between spiritual intelligence and both caring for dying patients (P<0.01, r=0.265) and attitudes towards death (P<0.001, r=0.360). Among the dimensions of spiritual intelligence, critical existential thinking emerged as a significant predictor of attitudes towards death (P<0.001, β=1.207) and evaluation of dying patient care (P<0.001, β=0.880).
Conclusion: The findings suggest that spiritual intelligence may play a vital role in shaping positive attitudes towards death and improving the quality of care for dying patients. It is recommended that nursing managers incorporate strategies to enhance spirituality in clinical practice to optimize end-of-life care.
Malihe Izanloo, Abbas Shamsalinia, Sepide Mohammadi, Shahrbanoo Keyhanian,
Volume 31, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background & Aim: Emotional disclosure has been associated with improvements in psychological well-being, immune function, and physical health. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of written emotional disclosure on health behaviors and loneliness among family caregivers of cancer patients.
Methods & Materials: This is an experimental study with a pretest–posttest design and a control group. Seventy family caregivers of cancer patients who scored high on the UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version 3) and low on the health behaviors scale for family caregivers of cancer patients were selected by convenience sampling and randomly assigned to Intervention or Control groups. The Intervention group engaged in written emotional disclosure by documenting their deepest and most acute feelings for 15–20 minutes per session, over four consecutive days. The Control group received no intervention. Post-intervention assessments were conducted in both groups. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Comparative analyses included chi-square tests, independent samples t-tests, and paired t-tests.
Results: At baseline, there were no significant differences between groups in health behaviors or their components (P>0.05). Post-intervention, the Intervention group demonstrated significantly higher health behaviors scores and component scores than the Control group (P<0.001). Furthermore, the mean loneliness score in the Intervention group decreased significantly after the intervention (P<0.001).
Conclusion: Written emotional disclosure has a positive and significant effect on loneliness and health behaviors among family caregivers of cancer patients. Given its ease of learning, potential for unsupervised practice, and minimal need for therapist involvement, this method may be a practical adjunct in caregiver support programs.
Forough Ansarinik, Masoomeh Mahdavifar, Saeed Hosseini Teshnizi, Aref Faghih,
Volume 31, Issue 3 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background & Aim: Asthma is a prevalent respiratory disease, and encouraging health behaviors is a crucial preventive strategy for managing the condition. This study aimed to assess the impact of self-care education delivered retrospectively on health-promoting behaviors in patients with asthma.
Methods & Materials: This two-group randomized clinical trial with a pre-test-post-test design was conducted on 100 asthma patients visiting Shahid Mofatteh Clinic in Yasuj in 1402. Participants were selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group. The intervention group received three individual training sessions, one per week lasting 60 to 90 minutes each, delivered retrospectively. The control group did not receive any training. Data was collected using questionnaires on personal and disease information, as well as health-promoting lifestyle. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistical methods in SPSS version 26.
Results: Prior to the intervention, the mean health behavior scores in the experimental group were 124.52±16.05, and in the control group were 121.82±16.61, showing no statistical significance (P=0.411). However, following the intervention, the scores increased to 135.60±10.57 in the experimental group and 123.26±8.92 in the control group, with a statistically significant difference (P<0.001) indicating a significant improvement in the experimental group.
Conclusion: Self-care education delivered in a retrospective manner is recommended as a simple, practical, and cost-effective educational approach for individuals with asthma to enhance health behaviors.
Clinical trial registry: IRCT20230529058325N1
Fatemeh Dehghani, Zohreh Khavari, Bahareh Fallah, Zahra Rezaei-Haftadori, Maasoumeh Barkhordari-Sharifabad,
Volume 31, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Background & Aim: With the growing elderly population and increased survival rates, it is crucial to focus on the palliative care skills and knowledge of nursing students. This study aimed to assess the effect of palliative care education on the knowledge, attitude, and perceived self-efficacy of nursing students.
Methods & Materials: This quasi-experimental study took place in 2025 with 32 nursing intern students from the Meybod/Yazd Nursing School. Participants' knowledge, attitude, and perceived self-efficacy were evaluated before and after a palliative care education intervention using a questionnaire. Perceived self-efficacy was also measured one-month post-intervention. The intervention consisted of six four-hour sessions of a palliative care education program. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 21 and descriptive and inferential statistical methods (paired t-test and analysis of variance with repeated measures).
Results: Prior to the intervention, the mean scores for knowledge, attitude, and self-efficacy in palliative care were 26.90±3.76, 81.87±9.42, and 28.50±8.10, respectively. Following the intervention, the mean scores for knowledge (33.40±2.84), attitude (84.68±10.29), and self-efficacy (29.75±5.72) increased. One month later, the mean self-efficacy score rose to 32.37±6.52. The results indicated that only the increase in knowledge scores before and after the intervention was statistically significant (P<0.001).
Conclusion: The findings suggest that palliative care education positively impacts the knowledge level of nursing students. Therefore, implementing educational programs in this area during the educational period can be beneficial.
Avishan Gholamiyan, Somayeh Gheysari, Zinat Mohebbi,
Volume 31, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Background & Aim: Clinical competence is crucial for enhancing the quality of patient care and increasing patient satisfaction with nurses. Critical thinking is a key factor that influences the clinical competence of nurses. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the relationship between critical thinking and clinical competence among nurses working in intensive care units.
Methods & Materials: This descriptive-correlational study involved 240 nurses working in intensive care units at hospitals affiliated with Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in 2021. Participants were selected using stratified random sampling. Data collection included demographic questionnaires, the California Critical Thinking Form B, and assessments of nurses' clinical competence. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics and the Spearman correlation coefficient in SPSS software version 23.
Results: The mean total score of nurses' clinical competence was 143.53 with a standard deviation of 26.62, indicating an average level of clinical competence based on the instrument's scoring. The total score for nurses' critical thinking was 17.51 with a standard deviation of 13.41, showing a relatively high level of critical thinking among the nurses in the study. A positive and significant correlation was found between the total score of clinical competence and critical thinking (r=0.147, P=0.023).
Conclusion: The results suggest that nurses with stronger critical thinking skills also demonstrate higher levels of clinical competence. Therefore, incorporating strategies to enhance critical thinking in nursing education programs can enhance students' clinical competence, better preparing them for effective clinical judgment and decision-making in complex care scenarios.
Zohrehsadat Mirmoghtadaie, Morteza Heidari, Seyedeh Zahra Nahardani, Akram Heidari,
Volume 31, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Background & Aim: In light of the holistic approach to health, it has become increasingly important to utilize spiritual capacities to meet patients' needs. Spiritual care education for nursing students is therefore essential. This study aimed to address the lack of educational content in this area within the Iranian medical education system by developing a spiritual care educational package for nursing students and evaluating its impact on students' spiritual care scores.
Methods & Materials: This study, conducted in 1401, followed the Rothwell model and involved 60 final-year nursing students from Tehran, Shahid Beheshti, and Iran Universities of Medical Sciences. Participants were selected through simple random sampling in proportion to the number of final-year nursing students at each university. The educational package was provided to students as a text file for self-study, discussion with clinical instructors, and application in internship settings. Students' spiritual care scores pre- and post-training were compared using descriptive and inferential statistics in SPSS version 26.
Results: The average spiritual care score of the participating students increased from 1.94 to 4.21, indicating a significant positive effect of the training package (P<0.05). However, variables such as age, gender, university of study, and interest in the field did not have a significant effect on the increase in score (P>0.05).
Conclusion: The results of the present study suggest that the training package was effective in improving students' spiritual care scores. Therefore, it is recommended that nurses and other health disciplines receive training in spiritual care through various m
Arezoo Rozbahani, Salam Vatandost, Bijan Nouri, Parvin Mahmoodi,
Volume 31, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Background & Aim: The health of nurses’ work environments can influence their clinical competence and accordingly the quality of care they provide. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the relationship between a healthy work environment and clinical competence among nurses working in intensive care units of the teaching hospitals affiliated with Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences in 2023.
Methods & Materials: This cross‑sectional study was conducted using a census method on 245 nurses working in the intensive care units of Kosar, Tohid, and Besat teaching hospitals in Sanandaj during the winter of 2023. Data were collected using a demographic and occupational information form, as well as the Healthy Work Environment and Clinical Competence questionnaires. Data analysis was performed using STATA software version 12, using independent t‑test, one‑way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Kruskal-Wallis statistical tests.
Results: In the present study, 198 nurses (81.1%) reported their work environment health as low, 43 nurses (17.6%) as favorable, and only 3 nurses (1.3%) as very favorable. Nurses reported their clinical competence as good (86.5±2.72). No statistically significant relationship was found between a healthy work environment and overall clinical competence or its dimensions (P>0.05).
Conclusion: The lack of a significant relationship between a healthy work environment and nurses’ clinical competence in this study does not diminish the importance of providing a healthy work environment for nurses. The findings indicated that the level of work environment health was not desirable, whereas nurses’ clinical competence was good. Considering the importance of a healthy work environment, implementing measures to improve work environment health is essential.
Nahid Dehghan Nayeri, Atefeh Atefeh Sadeghi Nikoo,
Volume 31, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Spiritual care is a fundamental component of holistic care that addresses patients’ needs for meaning, hope, and existential concerns alongside physical treatment. Despite its importance, it is not widely implemented in nursing practice due to conceptual ambiguity, lack of structured education, professional challenges, and organizational limitations. Heavy workload, absence of clear assessment frameworks, and concerns about invading patients’ privacy are among the main barriers. Strengthening specialized training, providing organizational support, using spiritual assessment tools, and developing multidisciplinary teams can improve its implementation. Ultimately, spiritual care serves as a bridge between treatment and humanity, enhancing the quality of care and the satisfaction of both patients and nurses.
Mohammad Ganji, Elham Navab, Maryam Esmaeili, Shima Haghani, Mahboubeh Shali,
Volume 32, Issue 1 (4-2026)
Abstract
Background & Aim: Determining the amount of risk that threatens patients can lead to making correct treatment decisions. This study aimed to determine the diagnostic accuracy of early warning scores in prehospital care for diagnosing traumatic brain injury and the need for intensive care unit admission.
Methods & Materials: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted in 2024 among patients referred to the emergency department of selected hospitals affiliated with Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Using convenience sampling, 250 trauma patients were enrolled in the study. Data collection was carried out utilizing a demographic questionnaire and various scoring systems, including the National Early Warning Score 2 (NEWS2), Modified Early Warning Score (MEWS), Triage Early Warning Score (TEWS), and Modified Emergency Medical Score (MREMS). SPSS version 16 software and sensitivity, specificity, area under the curve, and confidence interval tests were used to analyze the data.
Results: The mean age of the patients was 40.90±15.78 years. According to the findings, 217 patients (86.8%) had a diagnosis of traumatic brain injury and 70 patients (28%) required intensive care unit admission. The National Early Warning Score 2 showed the highest diagnostic accuracy with sensitivity (82.2%), specificity (81.1%), and area under the curve (0.88).
Conclusion: The higher diagnostic accuracy of the National Early Warning Score 2 makes it a valuable tool for identifying patients who have sustained traumatic brain injury and require intensive care unit admission.
Naeimeh Sarkhani, Hooman Shahsavari, Nasrin Nikpeyma,
Volume 32, Issue 1 (4-2026)
Abstract
Background & Aim: Newly graduated nurses play a vital role in fulfilling hospital workforce requirements; however, their transition into teaching hospitals is accompanied by numerous challenges. Thus, this study aimed to explore the challenges faced by newly graduated nurses when selecting teaching hospitals for healthcare service provision.
Methods & Materials: This descriptive qualitative study was conducted in 2023 with the participation of 36 undergraduate nursing students from Tehran University of Medical Sciences, who were recruited through purposive sampling. Data were collected via semi-structured individual interviews. The data were analyzed manually using framework analysis, and the trustworthiness of the data was established based on Guba and Lincoln’s criteria.
Results: Data analysis led to the extraction of 11 subcategories and 5 main categories. The identified categories included: challenges related to nursing services (e.g., heavy workload); human relations challenges (e.g., lack of choice in preferred wards); financial challenges (e.g., salary and benefit delays); accessibility challenges (e.g., long commuting distance); and challenges related to the low priority of hospital employment (e.g., due to the intention to continue education).
Conclusion: The findings revealed that newly graduated nurses face a range of challenges throughout the process of selecting teaching hospitals. These results underscore the need for health policymakers and hospital managers to focus on improving working conditions, enhancing financial and human support, facilitating easier access, and offering motivational incentives. Utilizing these findings can contribute to the development of effective strategies for attracting and retaining newly graduated nurses in teaching hospitals.
