Showing 766 results for Type of Study: Original Research
Mahdieh Jafari, Majid Razavi, Sepideh Fanaei Nookar, Mehryar Taghavi Gilani,
Volume 19, Issue 1 (4-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Hypertension is one of the most common comorbidities in cataract surgery and severe hypertension sometimes cause surgery to be postponed. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the relationship between preoperative hypertension and intraoperative hemodynamic changes and postoperative early cardiovascular and cerebral complications on cataract surgery.
Materials and Methods: This study was performed on 160 patients with cataract surgery in Mashhad Khatam-al-anbia hospital. Before induction, the patients were divided into three groups by blood pressure measurement: normotensive (blood pressure <140/90) 100 patients, hypertensive (blood pressure 140/90 to 180/110) 30 patients and hypertensive crisis (blood pressure>180/110) 30 patients. Blood pressure and heart rate were assessed before entering to operating room, before induction and every 5 minutes to the end of surgery, after recovery and ward transfer. Cardiovascular and neurological complications were assessed 24 hours after surgery. Data were analyzed by SPSS software. P<0.05 was considered significant.
Results: There was no significant difference between patients for demographic and preoperative hemodynamic parameters. Preinduction, the blood pressure increased compared to the ward, which was more significant in the hypertensive and hypertensive crisis groups (P=0.001). After induction, systolic blood pressure reduced which was more significant in the hypertensive crisis group than two other groups (P=0.001). The heart rate increased after transferring to the operation room and returned to normal after induction of anesthesia, but in three groups were not statistically significant (P=0.25). Systolic blood pressure < 90 mmHg during the surgery, and also cardiovascular and nervous complications up to 24 hours were not significantly different in three groups (P=0.75 and P=0.08, respectively).
Conclusion: Blood pressure instability was more common in patients with hypertension crisis, but no early or debilitating complications were observed. Primary hemodynamic changes were rapidly reduced and controlled by induction of anesthesia. According to the findings, preinduction blood pressure alone is not sufficient to cancellation of cataract surgery.
Mohammad Ghasembandi, Samaneh Dehghan Abnavi, Negin Larti, Foziye Hamoole Tahmasbi, Jaber Zabihirad,
Volume 19, Issue 1 (4-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders among operating room nurses, and numerous studies have well explained its causes and factors. However, studies focusing on the characteristics and dimensions of low back pain and its relationship with influencing factors have not been conducted. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of the type of LBP, duration of back pain, and severity of back pain, and their relationship with the demographic characteristics of operating room nurses.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 350 operating room nurses at Ahvaz teaching hospitals in Iran in 2023. Data were collected using a questionnaire that included demographic information and LBP characteristics. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS.
Results: 64.8% of the subjects were female, 63.5% were married, and their mean age was 33.83±7.02 years. The prevalence of LBP among operating room nurses was 74.3%. In 60.7% of participant who have LBP, the first experience of back pain was in the past 5 years. The most common diagnosis of LBP was muscular disorders (29.9%). Also, 57.3% of them had pain only in the lower back and 42.7% of them had LBP radiating to the legs. We found no statistically significant relationship between the duration and severity of LBP and demographic characteristics (P<0.05). A statistically significant relationship was found between the type of LBP and gender and level of education, as well as between the duration of LBP and severity of LBP (P<0.05).
Conclusion: The findings of this study showed a high prevalence of LBP among operating room nurses, and differences in the type of LBP were observed based on gender and educational level, which may be attributed to individual factors. Additionally, the significant relationship between the duration of LBP and its severity may indicate the effect of the long duration of LBP on its severity, which suggests that providing counseling and treatment programs for nurses who are in the early stages of LBP.
Meisam Dastani, Narjes Bahri, Mehdi Moshki,
Volume 19, Issue 1 (4-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The Social Determinants of Health Research Centers in Iran utilize existing capacities to conduct research aimed at identifying and implementing effective methods to reduce social health inequalities. Therefore, this study analyzes the scientific publications of these centers using Bibliomerix tools.
Materials and Methods: This descriptive study employs a bibliometric aimed to analyze approach. The study population consisted of all scientific documents produced by the Social Determinants of Health Research Centers in Iran, ind in the Scopus database up to the end of 2023. Data analysis was conducted using the Bibliometrix package in the R programming language.
Results: The results revealed that Iranian Social Determinants of Health Research Centers have produced 8,358 scientific publications. The publication trend began in 2010, peaking in 2022. Original research articles (7,197 documents) constituted the majority of publications. The journals Health Education and Health Promotion, Medical Journal of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and Koomesh published the highest number of articles. Tehran University of Medical Sciences (1505 documents), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences (1080 documents), and Tabriz University of Medical Sciences (955 documents) were the leading institutions. Inter-institutional collaborations highlighted the pivotal role of Tehran University. International collaborations were primarily with United States, United Kingdom, and Australia. Key keywords included COVID-19, quality of life, and prevalence. Research themes focused on mental health, women, obesity, and diabetes, expanding in 2023–2024 toward primary healthcare and vulnerable populations.
Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that research centers focusing on social determinants of health in Iran have experienced a growing trend in scientific production and the expansion of their research domains. This progress is evident not only in the increasing number of scientific publications but also in the shift of research approaches from focusing on specific diseases to broader issues such as health policy, mental health, and social health inequalities. These findings may serve of this study can serve as a valuable guide for policymakers and researchers in setting research priorities in the field of social determinants of health.
Zhila Maghbooli, Solaleh Emamgholipour, Majid Ramezani, Mohammad Ali Sahraian,
Volume 19, Issue 1 (4-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders (NMOSD) is an uncommon disorder of the central nervous system mainly affecting the optic nerves and spinal cord. NMOSD is associated with IgG antibody binding to aquaporin-4 (AQP4) that triggers astrocyte and axon loss. Aquaporin 4 is also expressed skeletally and affects bioenergetic regulation pathways and calcium (Ca²⁺) translocations.
The aim of this study was the association between AQP4 and bone loss in NMOSD patients.
Material and Methods: In this study, 32 NMOSD patients were enrolled as the case group, and 37 age-matched individuals without a history of neurological disorders or other acute or chronic conditions served as the control group. Patients with NMOSD were diagnosed based on the criteria established by Wingerchuk et al. Dual x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) was used to assess bone mineral density (BMD) at three bone sites: the total hip, femoral neck, and spinal lumbar vertebrae (L1-L4). Bone status was defined based on the Z-score in these regions, with a Z-score less than -2 classified as severe bone loss.
Results: Among patients with NMOSD, 15.6% exhibited severe bone densitometry loss in at least one area (total hip, femoral neck, or spine), compared to 5.4% in the control group (P=0.01). Bone densitometry results showed that the Z-score in the femoral neck and hip regions was significantly lower in individuals with NMOSD compared to the control group (P<0.05). In NMOSD patients, the Z-score in the femoral neck and hip regions was considerably lower in aquaporin-4 positive patients compared to the control group (P<0.05). In the regression model, after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, and history of vitamin D supplementation, patients with aquaporin-4 had lower bone mass (P=0.02).
Conclusion: The study results indicate that aquaporin-4 may play a mediating role in the bone status of patients with NMOSD.
Sam Torabinejad, Mohadeseh Ostovari Deilamani, Farhad Nikkhahi, Reza Bigverdi, Fatemeh Fardsanei,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a non-fermentative Gram-negative bacillus and the third most common cause of hospital-acquired infections. Treatment of infections caused by this bacterium has not always been successful due to its high potential for multiple resistance to a wide range of antibiotics and the formation of biofilms. Obviously, accurate and timely diagnosis of bacterial agents causing hospital-acquired infections and determination of the microbial susceptibility pattern of isolates can make a significant contribution to infection control in hospitals. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the frequency of Stenotrophomonas in different clinical samples and to determine the biofilm production rate and microbial susceptibility of isolates.
Materials and Methods: In a cross-sectional descriptive study, non-fermentative Gram-negative isolates suspected of being Stenotrophomonas maltophilia isolated from different clinical samples from teaching hospitals in Qazvin province were collected and examined from April to March 2023. After phenotypic and molecular confirmation of the isolates using standard methods, the microbial susceptibility pattern of the isolates and the amount of biofilm production were examined using the microplate titer method.
Results: In this study, out of 50 isolates collected, the highest number of isolates were isolated from blood culture (33 isolates) and the lowest number of isolates were isolated from urine samples (1 isolate). Also, the highest frequency of samples was reported from the emergency department with 32 samples (63.8%) and the lowest frequency was reported from the ENT and oncology departments, each with 1 sample (0.8%). All isolates were 100% resistant to imipenem and meropenem due to the inherent resistance of this bacterium to carbapenems, which was a confirmation in the identification of this bacterium. The highest sensitivity to the antibiotics levofloxacin, minocycline and cotrimoxazole was observed with a frequency of 90%, 88% and 84%, respectively. The highest resistance to the antibiotic ceftazidime was observed, which was reported as 88%. In this study, 70% of the strains produced strong biofilms.
Conclusion: In this study, we saw an increase in hospital infections caused by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia in clinical samples of Qazvin hospitals. Knowledge of the frequency of opportunistic pathogens causing hospital infections and the microbial sensitivity of isolates leads to control of infections caused by these pathogens, proper treatment of infections and reduction of mortality in hospitalized patients. Fortunately, in this study, the isolates had high sensitivity to fluoroquinolone family antibiotics and antimetabolites.
Keivan Keramati, Sina Adib, Mahmood Ahmadi Hamedani, Leila Mohammadnejad Nasrabadi,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: BronchoT.D is an Iranian herbal drug manufactured for human consumption and has anti-cough and expectorant properties. Isoproterenol is a non selective agonist of beta-adrenergic receptors that although has been used as a drug in cases such as bradycardia, but based on the results of some studies, it has been determined that isoproterenol can also lead to tissue damage and hematological changes. The aim of this research was hematological evaluation of the interaction of BronchoT.D® with isoproterenol.
Materials and Methods: This was an experimental study. Eighteen male wistar rat were used in 3 experimental groups (each group 6 rats) including control, recipient of isoproterenol and normal saline and recipient of isoproterenol and BronchoT.D. There was no intervention in the control group. Isoproterenol was administered via twice injection and normal saline and BronchoT.D were administered five times orally. Finally, blood was collected from the rats and White Blood Cells (WBC), Red Blood Cells (RBC), Hematocrit (Hct), Hemoglobin (Hgb), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) and Platelets (Plt) were measured. Statistical analysis of data was performed through one-way analysis of variance using SPSS software.
Results: In terms of WBC, the difference between the experimental groups was not significant. The isoproterenol and normal saline receiving group had a significant increase in terms of RBC, Hct, Hgb and Plt as compared to the control group. The difference between the isoproterenol and BronchoT.D receiving group was not significant in terms of RBC, Hct and Plt as compared to the control group. In terms of Hgb and MCHC, the isoproterenol and BronchoT.D receiving group had a significant increase as compared to the control group. In term of MCV, the difference between experimental groups was not significant. The isoproterenol and normal saline receiving group did not differ significantly in comparison with the control group in term of MCHC.
Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that BronchoT.D not only prevents some hematological changes caused by isoproterenol, such as an increasing of RBC and plt, but can also increase the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood through a significant increase in Hgb and MCHC. BronchoT.D probably causes such effects by counteracting oxidative stress or by directly affecting the bone marrow, although additional researches are necessary to investigate such probablities.
Shaqayeq Taghizadeh, Shahnam Sedigh Mroufi, Kimia Khonakdar, Atiyeh Sadat Sajadi, Alireza Babajani,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Learning style refers to each learner’s preferred approach to receiving, processing, and retaining information. It is considered one of the key factors influencing the effectiveness of teaching and learning processes. This study aimed to examine the relationship between learning styles based on the VARK model and gender, academic performance, and academic semester among undergraduate anesthesia students at Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS).
Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytical (cross-sectional) study was conducted during the 2022–2023 academic year using a census sampling method on 65 undergraduate anesthesia students enrolled in the 2nd, 4th, and 6th semesters at IUMS. Data were collected using the validated VARK questionnaire with a Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient of 98.6 Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, employing descriptive statistics (mean and frequency) and inferential tests (Chi-square and ANOVA). A significance level of P<0.05 was considered.
Results: Out of 60 fully completed questionnaires (32 female and 28 male students), 86.7% of students reported using a single (unimodal) learning style, while 13.3% used multiple (multimodal) styles. The predominant learning style was auditory (46.7%), followed by kinesthetic (23.3%), while visual style was the least frequent (5%). Among multimodal learners, the most common combination was auditory–kinesthetic (6.7%). In all academic semesters (2nd, 4th, and 6th), auditory style remained dominant, with no significant differences found across semesters (P=0.094). Similarly, no significant association was observed between learning styles and gender (P=0.229). ANOVA results indicated no significant relationship between learning styles and academic performance, with a mean GPA of 17.05 (P=0.345).
Conclusion: The findings indicated that most students preferred a single learning style, particularly the auditory modality, with no significant differences based on gender, academic semester, or academic performance. Identifying students’ learning styles and aligning teaching methods accordingly may enhance the teaching–learning process. It is recommended that learning style assessments be conducted at the beginning of academic programs and considered in curriculum planning. Further studies with larger and more diverse samples are suggested to evaluate the impact of learning style-based instruction on student satisfaction and academic achievement.
Seyed Hadi Hosseini, Saeed Shahsavari, Yasaman Poormoosa, Mitra Rahimzadeh,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Medical university-affiliated dental clinics, particularly those located in metropolitan areas, provide oral healthcare services to a wide range of patients with diverse demographic and socio-cultural backgrounds. The sustainability and continued effectiveness of these clinics largely depend on patients’ satisfaction and loyalty. Understanding the determinants of these two critical factors and exploring their interrelationship is essential for improving service delivery and enhancing patient retention. Therefore, the present study aimed to analyze patient satisfaction and loyalty in a university dental clinic using a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical study was conducted during 2023–2024 on a sample of 190 patients who visited the dental clinic of Alborz University of Medical Sciences. Participants were selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using two standardized questionnaires: one assessing dental patient satisfaction and the other measuring patient loyalty. Structural equation modeling was employed using AMOS software, and model fit was evaluated using standard indices including the Comparative Fit Index (CFI), Tucker-Lewis Index (TLI), and Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA).
Results: The SEM analysis revealed a significant and positive relationship between patient satisfaction and loyalty (β=0.931, P<0.001). Among the dimensions of satisfaction, hygiene and physical conditions (β=0.939), responsiveness and service delivery (β=0.847), appointment scheduling and waiting time (β=0.761) had the most substantial impact on overall satisfaction (P<0.001). Additionally, attitudinal (β=0.996) and behavioral (β=0.859) components emerged as key dimensions of patient loyalty. Model fit indices demonstrated an acceptable level of fit with the data (CFI=0.893, RMSEA=0.077).
Conclusion: To enhance patient satisfaction and foster loyalty, university dental clinics should prioritize internal operational improvements, particularly in the areas of environmental hygiene, service responsiveness, and time management. Creating a positive mental impression through these factors can serve as a foundational step in cultivating long-term loyalty, ultimately contributing to the clinic’s credibility and sustainable performance within a competitive healthcare environment.
Nabeel Taher Jameel Alghanim, Hamed Jadooa Abbas, Hamid Choobineh, Ziba Majidi, Nasrin Dashti,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: This study investigated the biochemical profiles of individuals with different stages of kidney disease, including those with kidney disease without hemodialysis, chronic kidney disease without hemodialysis, and individuals with renal failure undergoing hemodialysis treatment, to clarify the role of mineral markers, inflammation, and kidney function in the complications of this disease.
Materials and Methods: This case-control study was conducted with 180 participants aged 18 to 81 years in Iraq. Participants were divided into four groups: the case group (including individuals with kidney disease not on dialysis, chronic kidney disease not on dialysis, and kidney failure treated with dialysis) and the control group, which included healthy individuals. Blood levels of urea, creatinine, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D3, parathyroid hormone (PTH), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and cystatin C were measured.
Results: The results showed that the levels of blood urea, calcium, vitamin D3, cystatin C and hs-CRP were significantly different between the different groups. The mean creatinine in the non-dialysis kidney disease group (3.98±1.77 mg/dL) and non-dialysis chronic kidney disease (4.59±1.63 mg/dL) was different from the dialysis kidney failure group (11.03±3.35 mg/dL) (P=0.001), but there was no significant difference between the two groups of kidney disease without dialysis and chronic kidney disease without dialysis. The phosphorus concentration was significant in all groups (P=0.001) and the highest value was observed in the dialysis kidney failure group. The PTH level was not significantly different between the two groups of non-dialysis, but there was a significant difference compared to the dialysis kidney failure group (P=0.001). Cystatin C was not significantly different in the two non-dialysis groups, but was significantly higher (P=0.001) compared with the renal failure group on dialysis (7.06±1.61 mg/dL).
Conclusion: This study demonstrated that regular monitoring of biochemical biomarkers is essential for the timely diagnosis and effective management of kidney disease. It also highlights the importance of paying attention to metabolic and inflammatory abnormalities in patients with kidney disease (especially in patients on dialysis), including extensive changes in biochemical, hormonal, and inflammatory factors levels that often occur due to severe impairment of kidney function and the dialysis process.
Farid Ghaffari, Seyed Amir Hosein Pishgooie, Armin Zareiyan, Simintaj Sharififar, Somayeh Azarmi,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: CBRN incidents Chemical, Biological, Radioactive and Nuclear are often unpredictable and invisible, leading to fear, anxiety, and disruptions in the provision of healthcare services in the community. The potential consequences and costs of unpreparedness for CBRN incidents can be significant. Rapid and appropriate responses to CBRN incidents play a crucial role in mitigating adverse physical health effects and reducing mortality rates. These factors heavily depend on the preparedness of hospital emergency staff. This study aimed to explore the experiences of hospital emergency clinical staff regarding their preparedness for responding to CBRN incidents in 2024 in Tehran.
Materials and Methods: The present study was a qualitative research employing a conventional content analysis approach. The study population consisted of clinical emergency staff from four hospitals, including one educational-specialized hospital, two public-general hospitals, and one private-general hospital. Participants were selected purposively and through snowball sampling, ensuring maximum variation among clinical emergency staff of hospitals in Tehran Province. Data were collected via in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 13 participants, and sampling continued until data saturation was achieved. For data analysis, the qualitative approach proposed by Graneheim and Lundman was employed, and MAXQDA software version 2022 was used for qualitative data management.
Results: In this study, 13 hospital emergency clinical staff members, including nurses, nursing managers, physicians, and laboratory science experts (8 males and 5 females), with an average work experience of 13 years and 11 months, were interviewed. Findings were extracted in the form of 7 main categories (resources, training and practice, contamination control, coordination, planning and instructions, management and treatment of casualties, structure), 13 subcategories, and 35 semantic codes. The results showed that the lack of specialized training, the absence of appropriate infrastructure for decontamination, and weak intra- and extra-departmental coordination are among the most important challenges to the preparedness of emergency staff in dealing with CBRN incidents. Participants also emphasized the need to provide personal protective equipment, develop specific instructions, and hold periodic drills.
Conclusion: Currently, the level of preparedness of hospital emergency clinical staff in responding to CBRN incidents is limited. Emergency staff play a vital role in responding to CBRN incidents. To ensure their preparedness and response efforts are fully effective, and considering the rising global threats of CBRN incidents, it is recommended to adopt strategies, policies, programs, coordination efforts, funding, and other necessary measures to enhance the preparedness of emergency staff for CBRN incidents.
Hamidreza Khakrah, Mohammadreza Yazdankhahfard, Masoud Bahreini, Niloofar Motamed,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: With the advancement of information and communication technology, telehealth has rapidly emerged as a new approach to delivering health-related care. Telenursing, a subset of telehealth, allows nurses to coordinate and manage care using communication technologies. Despite its significant potential, the adoption of telenursing in Iran has been limited, necessitating an examination of the factors that influence its implementation. The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between demographic characteristics, including age, gender, marital status, education level, employment history, position, hospital of service, experience with telephone interviews, experience in responding to telephone consultation requests, and knowledge and experience in using telenursing systems, with nurses’ behavioral intention to accept and use this technology.
Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted in 2023 with 281 nurses from two educational hospitals affiliated with Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, utilizing a complete enumeration method. Data collection tools included a demographic information questionnaire and the Chang et al. questionnaire focusing on the behavioral intention domain. The reliability of the behavioral intention domain of the questionnaire was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, which was found to be 0.73. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, such as the mean and standard deviation, as well as inferential tests, including the Mann-Whitney U test, the Kruskal-Wallis test, and the Spearman correlation coefficient. This analysis was performed with SPSS software. A significance level of less than 0.05 was used for all tests.
Results: The mean age of the participants was 33.30±7.46 years, and most of them were female and married. A significant relationship was observed between several demographic characteristics of the nurses and their behavioral intention to adopt telenursing. marital status (r=0.13, P=0.036), experience of conducting phone interviews with patients (r=0.20, P=0.001), experience of responding to phone consultation requests from patients or families (r=0.13, P=0.028), possession of knowledge and information about telenursing (r=0.26, P<0.001), and experience using the telenursing system (r=0.3, P<0.001), were all significantly associated with behavioral intention.
Conclusion: Telenursing, as one of the modern technologies of the present century, can be an effective solution to address the challenges of the healthcare system. The results of the study showed that some individual characteristics are related to the nurses’ behavioral intention to use this technology. To promote this technology, targeted training programs and supportive policies that address these factors are necessary.
Zahra Ataei Barazandeh, Behzad Imani, Erfan Aubi, Elham Soltani, Mohamadreza Ebadian,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Cataract surgery is one of the most common eye surgeries worldwide. Most individuals undergoing this surgery are elderly patients, and the use of general anesthesia and additional medications can lead to complications during and after the surgery, as well as increased costs for patients. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of intravenous Dexmedetomidine and Fentanyl, as well as Midazolam and intravenous Sufentanil, on pain intensity, hemodynamic status, surgeon satisfaction, and the level of sedation in patients undergoing cataract surgery.
Materials and Methods: This double-blind clinical trial was conducted on 80 patients who were candidates for cataract surgery at Farshchian Sina Hospital in Hamadan. Sampling was carried out from March 10, 2023 to August 21, 2024. The intervention group received Dexmedetomidine and intravenous fentanyl, while the control group received midazolam and Sufentanil. Blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation level, were measured. Pain intensity, surgeon satisfaction, and the level of sedation in patients were measured and recorded. The results of the research utilized qualitative and quantitative variables based on the study groups, using counts (percentages) and means (standard deviations). For the statistical analysis of these variables at baseline, chi-square tests and independent t-tests were employed. To assess the impact of treatment groups on pain throughout the study, repeated measures ANOVA was used, and the interaction between time and group was evaluated. In cases where the outcome variable under study was not normally distributed, non-parametric equivalents such as the Mann-Whitney test were applied. A significance level of P-Value<0.05 was considered. All statistical tests were conducted using Stata software.
Results: In the intervention group, heart rate and blood pressure decreased over time. Changes in heart rate and blood pressure had no effect on the patients’ recovery process. Oxygen saturation level in the intervention group did not change compared to the control group over time. The medication used in the intervention group did not cause shortness of breath or a decrease in oxygen saturation levels. Additionally, there was no significant difference in pain levels between the two groups. The level of sedation in patients and surgeon satisfaction in the intervention group was higher than the control group.
Conclusion: Based on the results of the research, it is recommended to use Dexmedetomidine in cataract surgery and other surgeries that require sedation.
Alireza Seyfi Ardali, Yoones Shahbazi, Mohammad Javad Katani, Mehrdad Azarbarzin,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Cognitive-behavioral therapy is one of the effective types of psychotherapy in the treatment of psychiatric disorders such as anxiety disorders, depression and improving mental health. This study was conducted with the aim of comparing the effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy on the mental health of patients with a history of myocardial infarction hospitalized in hospitals in Kermanshah province in 2024.
Materials and Methods: The present study is applied in terms of purpose and in terms of implementation method, it is a quasi-experimental study with a pretest-posttest design and a control group. The statistical population of this study included all patients hospitalized with myocardial infarction in hospitals in Kermanshah province, from whom 45 people were selected conveniently and based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were randomly assigned to two experimental groups and one control group (three groups of 15 people). To collect the information required for the study, the Goldberg (2003) Demographic and Mental Health Questionnaire was used. SPSS statistical software and t-test and ANOVA statistical tests were used to analyze the research data.
Results: Out of a total of 45 participants, 29 were male (65.4%) and 16 were female (34.6%). The comparison of their mean mental health scores before the intervention in the pre-test and post-test was (64.8±11.18, 63.33±11.34), (62.6±12.22, 58.07±12.94) and (64.87±10.56, 61.87±10.59), respectively. Also, the results of the analysis of covariance test for comparing mental health in the acceptance and commitment therapy and cognitive therapy groups showed that the F value obtained was 7.111 and its significance level was also smaller than 0.05 and was significant (P<0.05). As a result, both text-based acceptance and commitment therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy had a positive effect on the mental health of patients with a history of heart attack, and among them, the effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy was higher.
Conclusion: Considering the lower mean scores of the ACT-based therapy group in the post-test, it can be concluded that it was more effective than cognitive behavioral therapy in increasing mental health.
Afzal Shamsi, Musab Ghaderi, Sajjad Mirzaee,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: One of the risks of the nursing profession is psychosocial risks that affect their adaptation and, consequently, their resilience. This risk can have a deeper impact in certain situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic; Accordingly, the present study was conducted with the aim of “determining the relationship between resilience and demographic information in nurses working in COVID-19 special wards”.
Materials and Methods: The present study was a cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study and was conducted among 128 nurses working in the COVID-19 special wards of Ziaian Hospital in 2021. Participants were selected using convenience sampling based on inclusion criteria. Data were collected using demographic questionnaires and the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC). The scale’s score ranges from 0 to 100 (cutoff point 50), with scores above 50 indicating resilience. This questionnaire has been translated and validated by Iranian researchers. Its content validity was 0.82, and its reliability, based on Cronbach’s alpha, ranged from 0.74 to 0.9 for all subscales. The data were then analyzed using SPSS software with descriptive and inferential statistical tests. A P-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: The mean age of the participants was 35.59±7.22 years. The majority of nurses were male (61.7%) and married (89.8%). The mean resilience score among nurses was 37.25±5.68, which is considered very low given the cutoff point of 50. Results from linear regression showed that work experience (β=0.485, P=0.000), shift work (β=0.233, P=0.084), and employment type (β=0.189, P=0.021) had significant predictive power for overall resilience. This indicates that nurses with fixed shifts, more work experience, and permanent or contractual employment tend to have greater resilience. This analysis revealed that these variables, in total, predict 26% of the variance in the overall resilience variable.
Conclusion: Finally, the results of this study showed that the resilience of nurses working in COVID-19 special wards was low. Factors such as service history, work shift, and employment status were effective on their resilience. Accordingly, planning to improve the level of nurses’ resilience is necessary, especially in critical situations.
Mahnaz Moghadari Koosha, Iraj Salehi, Elaheh Mousavi, Mohammad Reza Safari, Nasim Alipour, Hossein Vakili Mofrad,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (11-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The hidden curriculum is considered the most powerful means of transmitting professional values. Given the critical importance of managing the hidden curriculum to institutionalize professional ethics and professionalism within health higher education institutions, the present study was conducted to explore the perceptions of operating room and anesthesia students and instructors regarding the impact of the hidden curriculum on the promotion of professional ethics.
Materials and Methods: This study was conducted using a qualitative approach based on conventional content analysis. The study population included final-year students and instructors from the operating room and anesthesia disciplines at Hamadan University of Medical Sciences. Participants were selected through purposive and theoretical sampling methods. Data were collected via in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Data saturation was achieved after conducting 24 interviews. The data analysis followed the qualitative content analysis approach proposed by Graneheim and Lundman (2004), and was carried out in seven steps: 1. familiarization with the data, 2. identification of meaning units, 3. initial coding, 4. formation of subcategories, 5. development of categories, 6. extraction of themes, and 7. final review.
Results: The content analysis of the interviews resulted in the identification of 456 initial codes. Following refinement and consolidation, these codes were organized into four overarching categories and ten subcategories. The main categories comprised: ‘Components of the hidden curriculum in professional ethics education’, ‘Mechanisms through which the hidden curriculum exerts influence’, ‘Consequences of the hidden curriculum’, and ‘Strategies for enhancing professional ethics’. The findings indicated that the hidden curriculum, manifested through the behavioral patterns of faculty members and instructors, organizational culture, and interpersonal interactions, plays a pivotal role in shaping students’ ethical attitudes and behaviors. Furthermore, the hidden curriculum, through processes of unconscious learning, reinforcement or erosion of formal values, and the manner in which rules are implemented, can yield both positive outcomes—such as the development of ethical decision-making skills—and negative outcomes, including diminished ethical sensitivity.
Conclusion: This study revealed that the hidden curriculum in operating room and anesthesia education functions as a dual-force phenomenon. On one hand, it fosters the development of professional ethics through constructive role modeling and authentic clinical experiences. On the other hand, it can contribute to ethical erosion by conveying contradictory messages and unhealthy norms. Achieving sustainable ethical learning requires active management of the hidden curriculum through three key strategies: aligning the formal and hidden curricula, empowering instructors as agents of ethical value transmission, and shifting the organizational culture paradigm toward learning from error.
Atefeh Abbasi, Somayeh Nasiri, Sayyed Mostafa Mostafavi, Abbas Habibolahi,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (11-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a clinical syndrome characterized by impaired brain function resulting from oxygen deprivation and reduced cerebral blood flow. Developing predictive models can serve as valuable tools for physicians in forecasting disease outcomes and facilitating early interventions. The present study was conducted with the aim of constructing a predictive model for neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy using data mining algorithms.
Materials and Methods: This applied study was conducted using a descriptive approach. In the first stage, the factors influencing the prediction of neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy were identified through expert surveys. In the second stage, data pertaining to 4,000 neonates were collected from the Iman system, available in the database of the Ministry of Health and Medical Education, during the years 2020–2021. Following preprocessing, a dataset comprising 3,962 records with 13 features was extracted. Subsequently, predictive models were developed using algorithms including artificial neural networks, decision tree variants, random forest, support vector machines, logistic regression, and Bayesian networks. Model construction was performed using the Python programming language within the Anaconda environment. Finally, performance evaluation and comparison were carried out using metrics such as accuracy, precision, specificity, F1-score, and the Area Under the Curve (AUC).
Results: The findings of the study revealed that the Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (AUROC) for models developed using logistic regression, artificial neural networks, random forest, Bayesian networks, support vector machines, and decision trees were 86%, 86%, 84%, 82%, 76%, and 74%, respectively. The highest performance was achieved by the logistic regression algorithm, with an accuracy of 81%, sensitivity of 85%, and specificity of 96%. The greatest sensitivity was observed in logistic regression, artificial neural networks, and support vector machines, whereas the naïve Bayesian algorithm demonstrated the lowest performance metrics. In the predictive model for hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, the most influential feature was the first-minute Apgar score, while the least influential factor was delivery outside the hospital.
Conclusion: The findings of the present study indicated that the predictive model for neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy based on the logistic regression algorithm demonstrated superior performance. It is anticipated that the application of practical data-driven algorithms for neonates with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy will play a crucial role in the rapid identification of the condition and the provision of appropriate treatment. Such approaches can enable healthcare professionals to act within the critical window of opportunity, thereby improving the quality of care, preventing disease progression, and reducing the severity of adverse outcomes.
Manizheh Mohammadi, Leila Nazarimanesh, Mozhgan Karimi,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (11-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Today, structural empowerment has been considered as one of the key factors in improving the performance of organizations, especially in the field of health and treatment. This study was conducted with the aim of investigating the relationship between structural empowerment and entrepreneurial organizational culture of employees in health and treatment centers of Shahr Salem Company.
Materials and Methods: This study is a descriptive-analytical study with an applied purpose, which is positivist in terms of research philosophy, with a deductive and quantitative approach, correlational in terms of research purpose, and cross-sectional in terms of time, and the data were collected using a survey method. The sample size was determined using the Cochran formula to be 263 people and was selected using a stratified, simple, and questioning random method. Standard Kanter structural empowerment questionnaires and Cornwall and Baron entrepreneurial organizational culture questionnaires were used to collect data. The data were analyzed with SPSS and Smart PLS 3 software.
Results: The findings showed that structural empowerment has a significant relationship with entrepreneurial organizational culture (rs=0.606 and P=0.000). Also, empowerment dimensions including opportunity (rs=0.505), information (rs=0.484), resources (rs=0.552) and support (rs=0.509) have a positive effect on entrepreneurial organizational culture. Statistical results showed that the greatest effect was related to the resource dimension. The opportunity dimension also plays a significant role in increasing employee motivation, which can pave the way for promoting entrepreneurial culture. In addition, in the first hypothesis, the relationship between entrepreneurial organizational culture and opportunity has been examined, which indicates the existence of a positive and significant relationship between these two variables. Also, P-value is 0.000, which is less than the significance level of 0.05, making this relationship statistically significant. In the second hypothesis, the relationship between information and entrepreneurial organizational culture has been confirmed with rs=0.484. The P-value less than 0.05, indicating the P-value is 0.009 which is significance of this relationship. the relationship between support and entrepreneurial organizational culture has been tested, indicating that this relationship is also positive and significant. The P-value is 0.008, which is less than 0.05, indicating the significance of this relationship. In the relationship between resources and entrepreneurial organizational culture, the P-value is 0.004, which is less than 0.05, this relationship is confirmed.
Conclusion: The findings of this study showed that structural empowerment, especially in the dimensions of access to resources, information, opportunities, and organizational support, has a positive and significant effect on strengthening the entrepreneurial organizational culture in health centers. Creating supportive infrastructures and providing opportunities for growth and improvement of employees’ skills can increase their motivation, creativity, and innovation. Making decision-making processes transparent and designing reward systems based on innovation promotes employee participation and responsibility. In addition, facilitating the free flow of information and knowledge, supporting innovative ideas, and developing creative skills pave the way for creating a sustainable entrepreneurial culture and improving the overall performance of the organization, and strengthening organizational capacities.
Taraneh Mohajeri, Talaat Khadivzadeh, Fatemeh Hadizadeh-Talasaz, Zahra Hadizadeh-Talasaz, Negar Sangsefidi,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (11-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Lack of awareness and inadequate knowledge about pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD), its nature, complications, prevention, and available treatments leads to increased anxiety, exacerbation of disease symptoms, and decreased quality of life. Given the high prevalence of pelvic floor disorders, this study aimed to determine the knowledge of pelvic floor disorders in women referring to clinics of teaching hospitals of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences.
Materials and Methods: A descriptive-cross-sectional study was conducted in the women’s clinics of teaching hospitals of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences in the period from July and December 2024. 205 people were included in the study using a convenience sampling method with inclusion criteria. Eligibility criteria included Iranian women over 18 years who spoke Persian and could read and write, and who provided consent to participate in the study. Participants who completed the questionnaires incompletely (more than 20% of questions unanswered) were excluded from the study. The data collection tool was a demographic and prolapse and incontinence knowledge questionnaire (PIKQ). Data analysis was performed using SPSS after checking for normality with Kolmogorov-Smirnov.
Results: The median age of the participants was 41. The median knowledge in the field of pelvic organ prolapse was 9 (total score range from 0 to 12), and in the field of urinary incontinence was 8 (total score range from 0 to 12), and the median overall score of the questionnaire was 17 (total score range from 0 to 24), and an interquartile range of 7. 98. (47.8%) of the women had poor and moderate knowledge, and 107 (52.2%) had good knowledge. The highest level of knowledge was related to the etiology domain, while the lowest was related to the diagnosis domain. An analysis of the relationship between demographic variables and the knowledge of pelvic floor disorders showed that, overall, there was no significant association between age (P=0.60), history of pelvic floor disorders (P=0.73), number of deliveries (P=0.67), and mode of delivery (P=0.37) with the knowledge score of pelvic floor disorders.The majority of participants (106 individuals, 51.7%) obtained their required health information from physicians, midwives, or other healthcare providers.
Conclusion: The results of this study showed that almost half of the participants had poor to moderate levels of knowledge, and the lowest level of knowledge among participants with both disorders was in the areas of diagnosis and treatment. It is recommended that educational programs be designed and implemented to increase the awareness of women in the community about pelvic floor disorders. Additionally, the use of a pelvic floor disorders knowledge questionnaire may aid physicians in monitoring educational and therapeutic interventions for patients and ensuring that they receive the information necessary to manage their condition effectively.
Ebrahim Jaafaripooyan, Seyed Farshad Allameh, Neda Alizadeh, Tahereh Sharifi,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (11-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Retention of faculty members is one of the fundamental challenges of the country’s health system. Therefore, this study aimed was conducted with the aim of providing strategies for retaining faculty members in the health field.
Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in a combined manner in three stages in 2024. In a field review, related articles were reviewed from the Magiran, SID, PubMed databases and using the Google scholar search engine. Out of 18,977 identified studies, 37 articles were selected and reviewed after several stages of screening. In the second stage, 12 semi-structured interviews were conducted with relevant experts and managers using an inductive approach based on the rules of directional content analysis to identify the factors of retention of faculty members in the health field. Accordingly, the human resource management framework, which includes 5 stages of familiarization with the data, identification of the thematic framework, indexing, display with a diagram, and interpretation of the results, was used for data analysis in this study. MAXQDA-2020 software was used to analyze the research data. Finally, in the third stage, using a prioritization matrix, the solutions were scored and prioritized by 17 experts.
Results: Strategies were identified and classified into 10 areas based on the human resources management cycle, including recruitment, selection and hiring, growth and development, performance evaluation, compensation, organizational culture, improving working conditions, motivation, termination of employment, and external factors. Then, those in each area were prioritized based on their level of efficacy, with the highest priority solutions including improvement of the country’s financial and economic conditions (mean score=4.92 out of 5), an increase in faculty members’ salaries (4.90), removal of the salary cap (4.88), establishment of housing cooperatives (4.82), respect for the dignity and social status of retired professors (4.80), provision of recreational facilities for faculty members (4.79), enhancement of transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law in the country (4.79), and increased faculty participation in decision-making processes (4.47).
Conclusion: Given the results, strategies such as focusing on improving the financial situation, promoting transparency, and increasing the well-being of faculty members can be effective in increasing the motivation and retention of faculty members in the health sector. Therefore, the implementation of these strategies by policymakers and education administrators is expected to improve the retention of faculty members in this sector.
Maryam Amirshekari, Seyyedeh Maryam Seyyedi, Faeze Fakhri, Mohsen Yaghmaei,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (11-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Shift handover is one of the key processes in clinical settings, during which patient care is transferred from one healthcare team to the next. Weaknesses in this process—particularly in high-pressure environments such as operating rooms—may lead to reduced quality of information transfer and staff dissatisfaction. This study aimed to determine the effect of the standard SBAR communication model on the quality of the shift handover process and the satisfaction of operating room personnel.
Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental study with a pretest–posttest design was conducted in 2023 at Imam Khomeini Hospital in Jiroft. Sampling was performed using a census method, and a total of 66 operating room staff members participated in the study. The intervention consisted of a two-hour training session (including theoretical and practical components) on the SBAR model. Data were collected using the standard CEX checklist to assess handover quality and a modified version of the Petrovic questionnaire to evaluate staff satisfaction. The validity and reliability of the instruments were confirmed. Data analysis was performed using SPSS and paired t-tests. A significance level of less than 0.05 was considered.
Results: The study participants included 66 operating room staff members, comprising 39 women and 27 men, with a mean age of 30.2±2.45 years. The mean score of shift handover quality significantly increased after SBAR training, rising from 73.80±13.99 before the training to 102.18±10.69 after the training, which corresponds to an improvement of approximately 20.9% relative to the total score range of the instrument (P<0.001). Furthermore, staff satisfaction with the shift handover process also improved, increasing from 37.85±4.77 to 42.41±4.76, representing an improvement of approximately 11.4% relative to the total instrument score range (P<0.001). These changes indicate the positive impact of SBAR training on both the shift handover process and the staff experience.
Conclusion: The findings indicated that training and implementation of the SBAR model were associated with significant improvements in handover quality and staff satisfaction. These results suggest that using structured communication tools may help improve certain aspects of the handover process. However, due to the lack of a control group and the short follow-up period, it is not possible to draw firm conclusions about the long-term effects of the intervention. Therefore, SBAR-based training may be considered as a recommended option; however, further studies with stronger designs and in diverse clinical settings are needed to more accurately evaluate its outcomes.