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Showing 726 results for Type of Study: Original Research
Mehdi Raadabadi, Zahra Tolideh, Zahra Shoara, Zahra Yeganeh, Jamil Sadeghifar, Khalil Momeni,
Volume 18, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: There is limited evidence about the effect of the corona disease epidemic on the efficiency of hospitals in Iran. This study was conducted with the aim of investigating the effect of the Covid-19 epidemic on the productivity of public hospitals in Ilam province.
Materials and Methods: This retrospective descriptive research has investigated the performance of 9 hospitals in Ilam province during a four-year period(1397-1400) based on the Pabon Lasso graphic model. The desired data were extracted from the HIS system of the hospitals and the key performance indicators of BOR, BTR and ALOS were calculated. The Pabon Lasso diagram was drawn with Excel software.
Results: The results showed that the bed occupancy percentage in teaching hospitals is significantly higher than non-teaching hospitals (P<0.05). Based on the results, the percentage of bed occupancy and the rate of bed rotation after the covid 19 pandemic has decreased significantly (P<0.05). The average length of the stay of patients also increased after the pandemic (P<0.05). Overall evaluation of hospital efficiency based on the Pabén Lasso model shows that the frequency of hospitals located in Nakara district has decreased from 4 hospitals before the pandemic to 3 hospitals, although hospitals in Kara district have not changed during this period.
Conclusion: Most of the researched hospitals, especially non-teaching hospitals, have low bed occupancy. Weakness in the service delivery chain, especially diagnostic services and specialized and super-specialized services, is one of the main reasons for this situation. Moving towards a change in the way hospitals are managed and having more flexibility in the structure and implementation in the short term and prioritizing large hospitals with a complete chain of services can lead to a way out of the current inefficient situation.
Materials and Methods: This retrospective descriptive research has investigated the performance of 9 hospitals in Ilam province during a four-year period(1397-1400) based on the Pabon Lasso graphic model. The desired data were extracted from the HIS system of the hospitals and the key performance indicators of BOR, BTR and ALOS were calculated. The Pabon Lasso diagram was drawn with Excel software.
Results: The results showed that the bed occupancy percentage in teaching hospitals is significantly higher than non-teaching hospitals (P<0.05). Based on the results, the percentage of bed occupancy and the rate of bed rotation after the covid 19 pandemic has decreased significantly (P<0.05). The average length of the stay of patients also increased after the pandemic (P<0.05). Overall evaluation of hospital efficiency based on the Pabén Lasso model shows that the frequency of hospitals located in Nakara district has decreased from 4 hospitals before the pandemic to 3 hospitals, although hospitals in Kara district have not changed during this period.
Conclusion: Most of the researched hospitals, especially non-teaching hospitals, have low bed occupancy. Weakness in the service delivery chain, especially diagnostic services and specialized and super-specialized services, is one of the main reasons for this situation. Moving towards a change in the way hospitals are managed and having more flexibility in the structure and implementation in the short term and prioritizing large hospitals with a complete chain of services can lead to a way out of the current inefficient situation.
Bizhan Hooshmand Moghadam, Shadi Moazami Goudarzi, Amir Rashid Lamir,
Volume 18, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Adipokines imbalance causes pathological effects on this system. Exercise interventions can play an important role in regulating the secretion of adipokines. This study aimed to investigate the effect of 12 weeks of resistance training on the serum level of apelin, vaspin, and blood pressure in elderly men with hypertension.
Materials and Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, 24 elderly men with high blood pressure were selected purposefully and based on the inclusion criteria and were randomly assigned to resistance training (N=12) and control (N=12) groups. The participants of the resistance training group performed resistance training for 12 weeks and three days a week. At the beginning and end of the study, blood samples were collected to measure the serum level of apelin and vaspin. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 24 software with dependent and independent t-tests at a significant level of less than 0.05.
Results: After 12 weeks of resistance training, there was a significant decrease in the serum level of apelin (P=0.002), vaspin (P=0.01), systolic blood pressure (P<0.001), and diastolic blood pressure (P<0.001) as compared to the pre-test. In addition, a significant difference was observed between the two experimental and control groups in the serum level of apelin (p=0.001), vaspin (P=0.001), systolic blood pressure (P<0.001), and diastolic blood pressure (P<0.001).
Conclusion: It seems 12 weeks of resistance training can improve systolic and diastolic blood pressure and regulate the secretion of adipokines apelin and vaspin in elderly men with high blood pressure.
Materials and Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, 24 elderly men with high blood pressure were selected purposefully and based on the inclusion criteria and were randomly assigned to resistance training (N=12) and control (N=12) groups. The participants of the resistance training group performed resistance training for 12 weeks and three days a week. At the beginning and end of the study, blood samples were collected to measure the serum level of apelin and vaspin. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 24 software with dependent and independent t-tests at a significant level of less than 0.05.
Results: After 12 weeks of resistance training, there was a significant decrease in the serum level of apelin (P=0.002), vaspin (P=0.01), systolic blood pressure (P<0.001), and diastolic blood pressure (P<0.001) as compared to the pre-test. In addition, a significant difference was observed between the two experimental and control groups in the serum level of apelin (p=0.001), vaspin (P=0.001), systolic blood pressure (P<0.001), and diastolic blood pressure (P<0.001).
Conclusion: It seems 12 weeks of resistance training can improve systolic and diastolic blood pressure and regulate the secretion of adipokines apelin and vaspin in elderly men with high blood pressure.
Ali Mohammad Mosadeghrad, Mahdiyeh Heydari, Mahya Abbasi, Mahdi Abbasi,
Volume 18, Issue 2 (5-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 2 (5-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Health insurance organizations play an important role in increasing people’s access to health services and protecting them financially against catastrophic health costs. Iran Health Insurance Organization (IHIO) is one of the largest public health insurance organizations in Iran, which faces many challenges. The purpose of this research is the strategic analysis of health financing performance of IHIO.
Materials and Methods: This qualitative research was conducted using interpretive phenomenology method through using semi-structured interviews with 25 managers and employees of IHIO. In addition, relevant documents and archival data of IHIO were collected and analyzed. Thematic analysis method was used to analyze the data.
Results: Overall, 19 strengths, 24 weaknesses, 14 opportunities, 37 threats and 43 solutions were identified for the health financing system of IHIO. Increasing the coverage of health services, correcting the information databases of the insured and electronic prescribing were the most important strengths, and inappropriate pooling of financial resources, incomplete risk pooling, high administrative costs, and inefficient control were the most important weaknesses of IHIO. The most important opportunities for IHIO include the government’s support for universal health coverage and emphasis on primary health care, legal support for consolidating health insurance funds and improving the health technology assessment system in the country. The main threats to IHIO include political and economic unstability, low health insurance premiums, decisions without scientific support and insufficient enforcement of laws. Finally, solutions such as modernizing the tax system, increasing the health literacy of the community, reducing bureaucracy, increasing transparency and accountability, and reforming the monitoring and evaluation system were identified to strengthen the performance of the financing system of IHIO.
Conclusion: Iran’s health insurance organization is facing numerous structural, contexual and process challenges that have reduced its productivity. Decrease in revenues, increase in costs and decrease in efficiency have caused problems in the financing performance of this organization. Recognizing the weaknesses and challenges of financing performance and applying corrective interventions is the first step in strengthening the sustainability of health financing of IHIO.
Materials and Methods: This qualitative research was conducted using interpretive phenomenology method through using semi-structured interviews with 25 managers and employees of IHIO. In addition, relevant documents and archival data of IHIO were collected and analyzed. Thematic analysis method was used to analyze the data.
Results: Overall, 19 strengths, 24 weaknesses, 14 opportunities, 37 threats and 43 solutions were identified for the health financing system of IHIO. Increasing the coverage of health services, correcting the information databases of the insured and electronic prescribing were the most important strengths, and inappropriate pooling of financial resources, incomplete risk pooling, high administrative costs, and inefficient control were the most important weaknesses of IHIO. The most important opportunities for IHIO include the government’s support for universal health coverage and emphasis on primary health care, legal support for consolidating health insurance funds and improving the health technology assessment system in the country. The main threats to IHIO include political and economic unstability, low health insurance premiums, decisions without scientific support and insufficient enforcement of laws. Finally, solutions such as modernizing the tax system, increasing the health literacy of the community, reducing bureaucracy, increasing transparency and accountability, and reforming the monitoring and evaluation system were identified to strengthen the performance of the financing system of IHIO.
Conclusion: Iran’s health insurance organization is facing numerous structural, contexual and process challenges that have reduced its productivity. Decrease in revenues, increase in costs and decrease in efficiency have caused problems in the financing performance of this organization. Recognizing the weaknesses and challenges of financing performance and applying corrective interventions is the first step in strengthening the sustainability of health financing of IHIO.
Hanie Pooshideh, Jalal Jafarzade, Ali Heidarpour, Mojtaba Taghizade Armaki, Saeid Mahdavi Omran, P.h.d Firoozeh Kermani, Mohsen Karami,
Volume 18, Issue 2 (5-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 2 (5-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Cockroaches are potential carriers of a wide range of pathogenic microorganisms (fungi, bacteria and parasites). Considering the importance of these insects in the transmission of pathogenic fungi and their impact on the health of hospitalized people, the aim of this study was isolation and molecular identification of pathogenic fungi from the external and internal surfaces of cockroaches collected from three educational hospitals of Babol city, Mazandaran Province, Iran.
Materials and Methods: Cockroaches were caught by a sterile manual method and after washing to remove surface contamination with 70% ethyl alcohol for 2min, 100 µL of the solutions from the external and internal parts of cockroaches were cultured on Sabouraud’s dextrose agar with 0.05% chloramphenicol and incubated at 30 °C for 3 weeks. The different yeast and filamentous colonies were distinguished using standard mycological methods. The PCR-RFLP method and the restriction enzymes Msp I and Bln I were used for the differentiation of Candida species, and the restriction enzyme Alw I for Aspergillus species.
Results: A total of 85 fungi species/genera were isolated from all 50 studied cockroaches, including German cockroaches 15 (30%), American cockroach 20 (40%) and brown 15 (30%), which included 52 isolates from external surfaces (61%) and 33 isolates from internal surfaces of cockroaches (39%). Of the total number of 49 filamentous fungi, Aspergillus fumigatus 16 (32.65%) and out of the total number of 36 yeasts identified, Candida albicans 14 (38.89%) were the most common fungi isolated in this study. Other filamentous fungi and yeasts isolated from cockroaches include Aspergillus niger 11 (22.45%), Aspergillus flavus 8 (16.32%), Penicillium 4 (8.2%), Rhizopus 3 (6.1%), Cladosporium 3 (6.1%), Mucor 2 (4%), Alternaria 2 (4%), Candida parapsilosis 6 (16.67%), Candida krusei 12 (33.33%), Candida glabrata 3 (8.33%), and Candida tropicalis 1 (2.78%) were isolated.
Conclusion: Considering the isolation of several fungal species from cockroaches and their importance in the possible mechanical transmission of common fungal infections in hospitals, these insects can be a source of continuous transmission of infection, if there is no regular preventive disinfection of the hospital environment.
Materials and Methods: Cockroaches were caught by a sterile manual method and after washing to remove surface contamination with 70% ethyl alcohol for 2min, 100 µL of the solutions from the external and internal parts of cockroaches were cultured on Sabouraud’s dextrose agar with 0.05% chloramphenicol and incubated at 30 °C for 3 weeks. The different yeast and filamentous colonies were distinguished using standard mycological methods. The PCR-RFLP method and the restriction enzymes Msp I and Bln I were used for the differentiation of Candida species, and the restriction enzyme Alw I for Aspergillus species.
Results: A total of 85 fungi species/genera were isolated from all 50 studied cockroaches, including German cockroaches 15 (30%), American cockroach 20 (40%) and brown 15 (30%), which included 52 isolates from external surfaces (61%) and 33 isolates from internal surfaces of cockroaches (39%). Of the total number of 49 filamentous fungi, Aspergillus fumigatus 16 (32.65%) and out of the total number of 36 yeasts identified, Candida albicans 14 (38.89%) were the most common fungi isolated in this study. Other filamentous fungi and yeasts isolated from cockroaches include Aspergillus niger 11 (22.45%), Aspergillus flavus 8 (16.32%), Penicillium 4 (8.2%), Rhizopus 3 (6.1%), Cladosporium 3 (6.1%), Mucor 2 (4%), Alternaria 2 (4%), Candida parapsilosis 6 (16.67%), Candida krusei 12 (33.33%), Candida glabrata 3 (8.33%), and Candida tropicalis 1 (2.78%) were isolated.
Conclusion: Considering the isolation of several fungal species from cockroaches and their importance in the possible mechanical transmission of common fungal infections in hospitals, these insects can be a source of continuous transmission of infection, if there is no regular preventive disinfection of the hospital environment.
Sedigheh Mohammadesmaeili, Nahid Ramzanghorbani, Shiba Kianmehr,
Volume 18, Issue 2 (5-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 2 (5-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Passive smoking is known to have an impact on the respiratory system of infants and children. The aim of this study is to examine the positive effects of parental smoking cessation programs using nicotine replacement on quality of life in children with asthma at the Children's Medical Center of Tehran University of Medical Sciences.
Materials and Methods: This case-control study included 100 children aged 6-10 years with asthma who had their parents smoking in the Allergy Department of the Children's Medical Center of Tehran University of Medical Sciences. During the 2019-2021 period, this study was conducted using a census as the sampling method. Data were collected using standard questionnaires of the Child Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL), standard versions of the Short Form (SF-12) and the St George Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ). The two groups were compared using independent t-tests and paired t-tests, and Pearson's correlation coefficient was utilized to examine the correlation between the two questionnaires. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software.
Results: Children with asthma who had their parents quit smoking had a mean score lower than those who did not intervene. This indicates that the quality of life in children with asthma whose parents underwent nicotine replacement program improved significantly (P=0.03). Nicotine gum consumption can enhance certain aspects of health-related quality of life for both parents and children, as assessed by SF-12 and SGRQ, according to the results. Physical functioning (P=0.007) and school performance (P=0.002) were the two components most significantly affected.
Conclusion: The physical health and quality of life of parents are can affecte children with asthma, who face many challenges in meeting their daily needs. Smoking cessation using nicotine gum can improve the quality of life of parents and children. To maximize the effectiveness of parental smoking cessation information therapy programs for children with asthma, providing personalized support and advice to parents or caregivers, evidence-based treatments, and educating families on how to manage this disease in children seems essential.
Materials and Methods: This case-control study included 100 children aged 6-10 years with asthma who had their parents smoking in the Allergy Department of the Children's Medical Center of Tehran University of Medical Sciences. During the 2019-2021 period, this study was conducted using a census as the sampling method. Data were collected using standard questionnaires of the Child Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL), standard versions of the Short Form (SF-12) and the St George Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ). The two groups were compared using independent t-tests and paired t-tests, and Pearson's correlation coefficient was utilized to examine the correlation between the two questionnaires. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software.
Results: Children with asthma who had their parents quit smoking had a mean score lower than those who did not intervene. This indicates that the quality of life in children with asthma whose parents underwent nicotine replacement program improved significantly (P=0.03). Nicotine gum consumption can enhance certain aspects of health-related quality of life for both parents and children, as assessed by SF-12 and SGRQ, according to the results. Physical functioning (P=0.007) and school performance (P=0.002) were the two components most significantly affected.
Conclusion: The physical health and quality of life of parents are can affecte children with asthma, who face many challenges in meeting their daily needs. Smoking cessation using nicotine gum can improve the quality of life of parents and children. To maximize the effectiveness of parental smoking cessation information therapy programs for children with asthma, providing personalized support and advice to parents or caregivers, evidence-based treatments, and educating families on how to manage this disease in children seems essential.
Malihe Ghanaatjoo, Nader Jahanmehr, Dr. Hamed Dehnavi, Aida Samadi,
Volume 18, Issue 2 (5-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 2 (5-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The increase in the amount of information and the need for their daily monitoring have led to the development of tools called management dashboards that have the ability to analyze graphical data. In addition to preparing quick reports in different time frames and user-specific format, the dashboard can be useful for providing dynamic updated information for accurate decision-making and quick response to changes.
Materials and Methods: The current research was carried out in the form of qualitative studies and participatory action research method in 9 steps. In this applied and developmental research that was conducted cross-sectionally using the data of the first half of 2022, 11 members of the leadership team of a super-specialized children’s hospital were selected as research participants. The data collection tool was an interview using a questionnaire to determine the importance of indicators and a usability questionnaire (usability) of the dashboard based on three independent variables (usefulness, ease of use and satisfaction). The Excel file of data needed for the dashboard was collected from the HIS system of the hospital, and the dashboard was designed with Power BI software, and the capabilities and access levels of users were determined based on their duties. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics and Excel software version 2016.
Results: In the stage of determining key performance indicators, out of 39 indicators selected by the research team, 22 indicators scored an average score of 4 or higher (from 5 points) and 21 indicators were able to be implemented. The data repository in Excel format was used as an intermediate environment. The dashboard was displayed on six pages (indicators related to the performance of inpatient beds, mortality, emergency and other indicators) and the capabilities of each page were determined. After implementing the dashboard and determining the access levels of users, obtaining a high score from the questions of the usability questionnaire (5 out of 7 points) and obtaining an average score of 71.8 out of 5 questions related to usefulness variables, 70.5 out of 8 questions related to ease of use. And 71 out of 3 questions related to the satisfaction variable showed that the dashboard designed for the hospital had high usability.
Conclusion: Hospital management dashboard information can be a basis for informed decision-making to achieve benefits such as identifying the best performance, improving performance quality, making faster decisions, reducing errors, improving capacity management and work flow, allocating resources and planning for growth and development.
Materials and Methods: The current research was carried out in the form of qualitative studies and participatory action research method in 9 steps. In this applied and developmental research that was conducted cross-sectionally using the data of the first half of 2022, 11 members of the leadership team of a super-specialized children’s hospital were selected as research participants. The data collection tool was an interview using a questionnaire to determine the importance of indicators and a usability questionnaire (usability) of the dashboard based on three independent variables (usefulness, ease of use and satisfaction). The Excel file of data needed for the dashboard was collected from the HIS system of the hospital, and the dashboard was designed with Power BI software, and the capabilities and access levels of users were determined based on their duties. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics and Excel software version 2016.
Results: In the stage of determining key performance indicators, out of 39 indicators selected by the research team, 22 indicators scored an average score of 4 or higher (from 5 points) and 21 indicators were able to be implemented. The data repository in Excel format was used as an intermediate environment. The dashboard was displayed on six pages (indicators related to the performance of inpatient beds, mortality, emergency and other indicators) and the capabilities of each page were determined. After implementing the dashboard and determining the access levels of users, obtaining a high score from the questions of the usability questionnaire (5 out of 7 points) and obtaining an average score of 71.8 out of 5 questions related to usefulness variables, 70.5 out of 8 questions related to ease of use. And 71 out of 3 questions related to the satisfaction variable showed that the dashboard designed for the hospital had high usability.
Conclusion: Hospital management dashboard information can be a basis for informed decision-making to achieve benefits such as identifying the best performance, improving performance quality, making faster decisions, reducing errors, improving capacity management and work flow, allocating resources and planning for growth and development.
Fatemeh Mirshekari, Elham Maserat,
Volume 18, Issue 2 (5-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 2 (5-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Considering the growing trend of cancer in Iran, the development and implementation of digital health literacy systems accelerates the capabilities of digital health and the self-management process of patients. Digital health literacy means the ability to effectively and consciously use digital technologies to access health-related information and services. This skill plays an important role in accessing medical information, disease management, improving the quality of life of people, especially cancer patients. Digital health literacy is considered as one of the most key factors of equal access to digital health information. The purpose of the present study was to formulate the requirements of the digital health literacy system with a focus on cancer.
Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted in two phases of literature review and validity and reliability of requirements in 2023. In the first stage, a literature review was conducted with the keywords of digital health literacy, cancer, requirements, system and application in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, academic Jihad scientific database and specialized websites. To check the content validity of the survey, 62 experts were surveyed and CVI and CVR were calculated.
Results: Hundered and twenty seven functional and non-functional components were approved. Requirements in the functional section was divided in six main dimensions information literacy module (8 functional components), information and communication technology literacy module (18 functional components), media literacy (5 functional components), public, specialized and population-oriented health literacy module (47 functional components) ), digital health literacy module (28 functional components), and digital health literacy module in cancer (6 functional components) were divided. In the section of digital health literacy in cancer, the main components of needs assessment, digital health literacy training, evaluation and monitoring of the effectiveness of digital interventions and information search skills were approved. Fifteen non-functional components were also approved. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient obtained (92%) indicated high reliability and reproducibility.
Conclusion: Digital health literacy systems can facilitate health care services. Considering the acceptable validity and reliability of the study, the defined requirements can be used to implement digital health literacy systems centered on cancer.
Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted in two phases of literature review and validity and reliability of requirements in 2023. In the first stage, a literature review was conducted with the keywords of digital health literacy, cancer, requirements, system and application in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, academic Jihad scientific database and specialized websites. To check the content validity of the survey, 62 experts were surveyed and CVI and CVR were calculated.
Results: Hundered and twenty seven functional and non-functional components were approved. Requirements in the functional section was divided in six main dimensions information literacy module (8 functional components), information and communication technology literacy module (18 functional components), media literacy (5 functional components), public, specialized and population-oriented health literacy module (47 functional components) ), digital health literacy module (28 functional components), and digital health literacy module in cancer (6 functional components) were divided. In the section of digital health literacy in cancer, the main components of needs assessment, digital health literacy training, evaluation and monitoring of the effectiveness of digital interventions and information search skills were approved. Fifteen non-functional components were also approved. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient obtained (92%) indicated high reliability and reproducibility.
Conclusion: Digital health literacy systems can facilitate health care services. Considering the acceptable validity and reliability of the study, the defined requirements can be used to implement digital health literacy systems centered on cancer.
Mina Shirvani, Mostafa Roshanzadeh, Maryam Rabiey Faradonbeh, Razieh Mirzaeian,
Volume 18, Issue 2 (5-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 2 (5-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Nursing students are exposed to various educational, family, and social stresses and various factors can affect their mental health. Therefore, in order to pay attention to different dimensions of health and investigate the effects of spirituality on health, the present study was conducted to determine the effect of fasting on the mental health of nursing students of Borujen Faculty of Medical Sciences.
Materials and Methods: The present semi-experimental study with a pre-test-post-test design was conducted in 2022 at Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences. Ninety nursing students of Borujen Faculty of Medical Sciences were selected by available methods and assigned to two intervention and control groups by a simple random method. The intervention in this study included at least 23 days of fasting during Ramadan. The data before and after the intervention were collected by the demographic information questionnaire and the 21-question depression, anxiety, and stress standard tool (DASS). The validity and reliability of this questionnaire were conducted for the first time in Iran by Sahebi et al. in 2005. SPSS was used for analysis. Descriptive statistical tests including frequency percentage, mean and standard deviation, and inferential statistical tests including t-test, paired t-test, analysis of variance, and chi-square were used.
Results: There was no significant difference in the total mental health score between intervention (32.32±11.62) and control (29.87±14.09) groups before the intervention (P=0.08). There was a significant difference in this score between intervention (20.6±5.71) and control (29.49±8.9) groups after the intervention (P=0.04). The total mental health score in the control group before (29.87±14.09) and after (29.49±8.9) the intervention had no significant difference (P=0.15); while in the intervention group before (32.32±11.62) and after (20.6±5.71) the intervention had a significant difference (P=0.001). Mental health dimensions before and after intervention, indicated that anxiety (P=0.04) and stress (P=0.003) decreased significantly after the intervention in the intervention group. However, there was no significant difference in the depression dimension (P=0.06).
Conclusion: According to the results, it should be said that regular and periodic examination of the health level, and the promotion of educational and training programs on the subject of fasting to improve mental health, should be considered.
Materials and Methods: The present semi-experimental study with a pre-test-post-test design was conducted in 2022 at Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences. Ninety nursing students of Borujen Faculty of Medical Sciences were selected by available methods and assigned to two intervention and control groups by a simple random method. The intervention in this study included at least 23 days of fasting during Ramadan. The data before and after the intervention were collected by the demographic information questionnaire and the 21-question depression, anxiety, and stress standard tool (DASS). The validity and reliability of this questionnaire were conducted for the first time in Iran by Sahebi et al. in 2005. SPSS was used for analysis. Descriptive statistical tests including frequency percentage, mean and standard deviation, and inferential statistical tests including t-test, paired t-test, analysis of variance, and chi-square were used.
Results: There was no significant difference in the total mental health score between intervention (32.32±11.62) and control (29.87±14.09) groups before the intervention (P=0.08). There was a significant difference in this score between intervention (20.6±5.71) and control (29.49±8.9) groups after the intervention (P=0.04). The total mental health score in the control group before (29.87±14.09) and after (29.49±8.9) the intervention had no significant difference (P=0.15); while in the intervention group before (32.32±11.62) and after (20.6±5.71) the intervention had a significant difference (P=0.001). Mental health dimensions before and after intervention, indicated that anxiety (P=0.04) and stress (P=0.003) decreased significantly after the intervention in the intervention group. However, there was no significant difference in the depression dimension (P=0.06).
Conclusion: According to the results, it should be said that regular and periodic examination of the health level, and the promotion of educational and training programs on the subject of fasting to improve mental health, should be considered.
Majid Jangi, Azade Shayan Babokan, Nasim Ghalili Najafabadi, Sedigheh Torki Harchegani,
Volume 18, Issue 3 (7-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 3 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Considering the limitation of resourses, improvement of the hospital efficiency is an absolute necessity. The Covid19 pandemic had a considerable effect on performance indicators of hospitals. This study aimed to investigate changes of indicators of hospitals affiliated to Isfahan University of Medical Sciences before and after Covid19.
Materials and Methods: This study was descriptive-cross sectional. The statistical population included all hospitals under the coverage of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences (38). The input data were related to the three years 2019 to 2021 (the year 2019 as the year before outbreak of Covid-19, the year 2020 as the first year of outbreak and the year 2021 as the second year of outbreak), which were collected using the researcher’s form based on reports extracted from the statistics and hospital information system available in the statistics and information technology management and finally the data analyzed through the PabonLasso model.
Results: Process of indicators during the years 2019-2021 shows that mean of indicators of bed occupancy rate and bed turnover rate as the first year of outbreak of Covid19 (2020) that was the peak of the disease has decreased as compared to the year 2019 and average length of stay has increased. In years 2019, 2020 and 2021, 24.32, 23.68 and 24.32 percent of hospitals were in the third area (efficient area). From 2019 to 2020, efficiency change was observed in 27 percent of the hospitals where 6 hospitals had positive trend and 4 hospitals had negative trend and from 2020 to 2021, efficiency change was observed in 16 percent of hospitals where 2 hospitals had positive and 4 had negative trend.
Conclusion: Considering the low efficiency of hospitals, it is suggested to carry out continuous and annual assessment of efficiency changes in hospitals in order to identify the causes of inefficiency early and preventing its drop and it is necessary for health managers and policy makers to take appropriate measures in the conditions of the outbreak of unexpected disease such as the outbreak of Covid-19 in order to use hospital resources more optimally.
Materials and Methods: This study was descriptive-cross sectional. The statistical population included all hospitals under the coverage of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences (38). The input data were related to the three years 2019 to 2021 (the year 2019 as the year before outbreak of Covid-19, the year 2020 as the first year of outbreak and the year 2021 as the second year of outbreak), which were collected using the researcher’s form based on reports extracted from the statistics and hospital information system available in the statistics and information technology management and finally the data analyzed through the PabonLasso model.
Results: Process of indicators during the years 2019-2021 shows that mean of indicators of bed occupancy rate and bed turnover rate as the first year of outbreak of Covid19 (2020) that was the peak of the disease has decreased as compared to the year 2019 and average length of stay has increased. In years 2019, 2020 and 2021, 24.32, 23.68 and 24.32 percent of hospitals were in the third area (efficient area). From 2019 to 2020, efficiency change was observed in 27 percent of the hospitals where 6 hospitals had positive trend and 4 hospitals had negative trend and from 2020 to 2021, efficiency change was observed in 16 percent of hospitals where 2 hospitals had positive and 4 had negative trend.
Conclusion: Considering the low efficiency of hospitals, it is suggested to carry out continuous and annual assessment of efficiency changes in hospitals in order to identify the causes of inefficiency early and preventing its drop and it is necessary for health managers and policy makers to take appropriate measures in the conditions of the outbreak of unexpected disease such as the outbreak of Covid-19 in order to use hospital resources more optimally.
Maliheh Javadi-Arjmand, Elia Damavandi, Hamid Choobineh, Majid Kabuli, Mohsen Ghadami,
Volume 18, Issue 3 (7-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 3 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Follicle stimulating glycoprotein hormone (FSH) exerts its functions through its receptor (FSHR). In women of reproductive age, this hormone causes the growth and development of follicles in the ovary during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. This hormone is widely used in the treatment of infertility. Several polymorphisms have been reported so far in the FSHR gene, which are effective in the ovarian response, but the FSHR gene has two very common single nucleotide polymorphisms at positions 680 and 307 in exon 10. One of them at position 307 changes the amino acid threonine to alanine and the other at position 680 changes asparagine to serine. The polymorphism at position 307 of exon 10 is in the extracellular region of the receptor and the binding site of the hormone, which can be affected in response to internal and external FSH stimulation. These two SNPs have been reported to be associated with various ovarian responses and IVF outcomes in different populations. Different studies have particularly focused on rs6166 (p. Asn680Ser), but this study was conducted to investigate the possible association between rs6166 and rs6165 (p. Thr307Ala) and the IVF outcome.
Materials and Methods: After blood sampling and DNA extraction, the two polymorphisms in exon 10 of FSHR gene were analyzed using PCR-RFLP method in 120 women randomly assigned to two equal groups including IVF successful and IVF unsuccessful infertile women. The selection of patients to enter the study as well as the criteria for successful IVF are described in the text. In order to confirm the results, DNA sequencing was done for some selected samples. Finally, the results were analyzed using SPSS software.
Results: No significant differences were found in either SNPs between successful IVF and unsuccessful IVF patients in allelic frequencies (P-value>0.05).
Conclusion: Despite the different results of the studies conducted regarding the effect of FSHR gene polymorphisms (rs6165 and rs6166) in different populations, considering the lack of significant difference in the frequency of the above polymorphisms in the studied population, it is concluded that these two polymorphisms cannot be used to predict the outcome of IVF in Iranian infertile women.
Materials and Methods: After blood sampling and DNA extraction, the two polymorphisms in exon 10 of FSHR gene were analyzed using PCR-RFLP method in 120 women randomly assigned to two equal groups including IVF successful and IVF unsuccessful infertile women. The selection of patients to enter the study as well as the criteria for successful IVF are described in the text. In order to confirm the results, DNA sequencing was done for some selected samples. Finally, the results were analyzed using SPSS software.
Results: No significant differences were found in either SNPs between successful IVF and unsuccessful IVF patients in allelic frequencies (P-value>0.05).
Conclusion: Despite the different results of the studies conducted regarding the effect of FSHR gene polymorphisms (rs6165 and rs6166) in different populations, considering the lack of significant difference in the frequency of the above polymorphisms in the studied population, it is concluded that these two polymorphisms cannot be used to predict the outcome of IVF in Iranian infertile women.
Maryam Poormehdi, Nooshin Khandandezfully, Kumarss Amini,
Volume 18, Issue 3 (7-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 3 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Thermophilic bacillus is a type of thermophilic bacillus, carries various genes and biosurfactants, microbial surfactants are surface active molecules produced by various microorganisms such as bacteria, yeasts and filamentous fungi. Biosurfactants are able to reduce the surface energy between phases and create electrostatic barriers, thus preventing the integration of particles. The aim of the present study was the molecular isolation of the srf gene from thermophilic soil bacilli and its cloning in susceptible cells for industry use.
Materials and Methods: Fifteen samples from different regions of Kerman were collected and screened to isolate Bacillus strains. Morphological and biochemical studies were done to identify the strains. After biochemical examination of isolated microbial isolates and confirmation of Bacillus strains, DNA extraction was done. Then, the srf gene was identified by PCR method from these isolates. The amplified fragment was inserted into pTG19 vector by TA cloning method. Then, the recombinant vector was transformed into E.coli origami bacteria and cloning was confirmed using common methods. The housekeeping gene 16S rRNA was used as the internal control of the test. The analysis of the gene expression level was performed by measuring the relative expression of mRNA as compared to the negative control that E.coli bacteria lacked the srf gene.
Results: A total of 12 isolates of thermophilic bacilli were obtained from soil samples. As result, the PCR reaction for the srf gene with the designed primers was found to be positive in 1 isolate (8.3%). The presence of srf gene and the expression of this gene were checked by real time PCR test. Examining the white and blue colonies, M13 primer, junction location and determination of the 16S rRNA gene sequence confirmed the correctness of the cloning of the mentioned gene in the host bacteria.
Conclusion: As a result of the present study, it was possible to identify the native thermophilic bacillus carrying the srf gene, which can be used to obtain biosurfactant enzyme widely, conveniently and economically, for use in industrial and agricultural purposes, removing oil pollutants and reducing environmental surface tension, etc. which can be advantages.
Materials and Methods: Fifteen samples from different regions of Kerman were collected and screened to isolate Bacillus strains. Morphological and biochemical studies were done to identify the strains. After biochemical examination of isolated microbial isolates and confirmation of Bacillus strains, DNA extraction was done. Then, the srf gene was identified by PCR method from these isolates. The amplified fragment was inserted into pTG19 vector by TA cloning method. Then, the recombinant vector was transformed into E.coli origami bacteria and cloning was confirmed using common methods. The housekeeping gene 16S rRNA was used as the internal control of the test. The analysis of the gene expression level was performed by measuring the relative expression of mRNA as compared to the negative control that E.coli bacteria lacked the srf gene.
Results: A total of 12 isolates of thermophilic bacilli were obtained from soil samples. As result, the PCR reaction for the srf gene with the designed primers was found to be positive in 1 isolate (8.3%). The presence of srf gene and the expression of this gene were checked by real time PCR test. Examining the white and blue colonies, M13 primer, junction location and determination of the 16S rRNA gene sequence confirmed the correctness of the cloning of the mentioned gene in the host bacteria.
Conclusion: As a result of the present study, it was possible to identify the native thermophilic bacillus carrying the srf gene, which can be used to obtain biosurfactant enzyme widely, conveniently and economically, for use in industrial and agricultural purposes, removing oil pollutants and reducing environmental surface tension, etc. which can be advantages.
Fahimeh Mohammadi, Maryam Shekofteh, Maryam Kazerani,
Volume 18, Issue 3 (7-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 3 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The growth and development of scientific fields depends on correct and accurate planning and a general and comprehensive understanding of the structure of these fields. Scientific maps are a type of scientometric methods that help to understand the current state of scientific fields and reveal their internal structure. The aim of the present study is to analyze co-authorship and word co-occurrence maps of scientific publications of Iran in the field of endocrinology and metabolism.
Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional scientometrics study. The research population is all scientific publications of Iran in the field of Endocrinology and Metabolism on the Web of Science. The co-authorship and co-word maps were analyzed using VOSviewer, Gephi, and NodeXL software. Network analysis was done using social network analysis indicators. Thematic clusters and emerging subjects were also identified through the examination of word co-occurrence networks.
Results: The total scientific publications of Iran in the field of endocrinology and metabolism on the Web of Science was 4847 documents. The co-authorship network is a type of sparse network. The value of the cluster coefficient of this network was 0.212 and its diameter was 11. The average degree of the co-authorship network (6.62) shows that each node is connected with about 6 other nodes on average. The diameter of the co-authorship network is 11. The most productive and influential outhors are Azizi F and Larijani B. Six thematic clusters were identified in the word co-occurrence network, the largest one is oxidative stress and gene expression, followed by the obesity and diabetes cluster. The word “autoimmunity” is one of the emerging words in this field.
Conclusion: Iran’s research in the field of Endocrinology and Metabolism shows an increasing trend, but there is little cooperation between the authors of the field. Their co-authorship networks are sparse, and the authors’ tendency to form clusters is low. Therefore, planning is needed to increase scientific cooperation and the density of networks. It is suggested that the researchers of this field pay attention to the thematic clusters of the co-word network and emerging subjects in the design of their future research.
Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional scientometrics study. The research population is all scientific publications of Iran in the field of Endocrinology and Metabolism on the Web of Science. The co-authorship and co-word maps were analyzed using VOSviewer, Gephi, and NodeXL software. Network analysis was done using social network analysis indicators. Thematic clusters and emerging subjects were also identified through the examination of word co-occurrence networks.
Results: The total scientific publications of Iran in the field of endocrinology and metabolism on the Web of Science was 4847 documents. The co-authorship network is a type of sparse network. The value of the cluster coefficient of this network was 0.212 and its diameter was 11. The average degree of the co-authorship network (6.62) shows that each node is connected with about 6 other nodes on average. The diameter of the co-authorship network is 11. The most productive and influential outhors are Azizi F and Larijani B. Six thematic clusters were identified in the word co-occurrence network, the largest one is oxidative stress and gene expression, followed by the obesity and diabetes cluster. The word “autoimmunity” is one of the emerging words in this field.
Conclusion: Iran’s research in the field of Endocrinology and Metabolism shows an increasing trend, but there is little cooperation between the authors of the field. Their co-authorship networks are sparse, and the authors’ tendency to form clusters is low. Therefore, planning is needed to increase scientific cooperation and the density of networks. It is suggested that the researchers of this field pay attention to the thematic clusters of the co-word network and emerging subjects in the design of their future research.
Somayyeh Zakerabasali, Farnaz Salehian,
Volume 18, Issue 3 (7-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 3 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Today, information dashboards are the main tools for understanding and extracting knowledge from large data sets and can be used in various forms by healthcare providers. At the same time as the COVID-19 epidemic, several information dashboards were designed and developed. Still, due to the speed of the spread of this virus, there was no opportunity to evaluate them. Therefore, this research was conducted to evaluate the usability of the Covid-19 management dashboard.
Materials and Methods: This descriptive-cross-sectional study was conducted on the management dashboard of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. The dashboard was evaluated using an exploratory evaluation method with the participation of three medical informatics experts. Each of the evaluators evaluated the system independently and identified its problems by using thirteen principle checklist. Then, with the presence of all evaluators, the list of identified problems was combined, repeated problems were removed from the list and a single list was prepared. In this joint meeting, any disagreements about the problems found by the evaluators were discussed and reached a common opinion. Finally, the evaluators determined and reported the severity of the problems.
Results: In this evaluation, a total of 79 usability problems were identified. The highest number of problems was related to the feature “Help and Documentation” (12 problems), and the lowest number of problems was related to the features “Aesthetic and Minimalist Design” (2 problems) and “Privacy” (1 problem). 45.58% of the identified problems were in the category of major problems. The average degree of severity of the problems was from 2.05 (minor problem) related to the feature of “Pleasurable and Respectful Interaction with the User” to 2.99 (major problem) related to the feature of “User Control and Freedom”. Also, the average severity of problems was calculated as 2.5, classified in the range of minor problems.
Conclusion: The heuristic evaluation method identifies user interface problems of information systems and dashboards using predetermined standards. If these problems are not resolved, they will cause users’ time wasted, errors to increase, information quality to decrease, and users’ dissatisfaction and confusion.
Materials and Methods: This descriptive-cross-sectional study was conducted on the management dashboard of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. The dashboard was evaluated using an exploratory evaluation method with the participation of three medical informatics experts. Each of the evaluators evaluated the system independently and identified its problems by using thirteen principle checklist. Then, with the presence of all evaluators, the list of identified problems was combined, repeated problems were removed from the list and a single list was prepared. In this joint meeting, any disagreements about the problems found by the evaluators were discussed and reached a common opinion. Finally, the evaluators determined and reported the severity of the problems.
Results: In this evaluation, a total of 79 usability problems were identified. The highest number of problems was related to the feature “Help and Documentation” (12 problems), and the lowest number of problems was related to the features “Aesthetic and Minimalist Design” (2 problems) and “Privacy” (1 problem). 45.58% of the identified problems were in the category of major problems. The average degree of severity of the problems was from 2.05 (minor problem) related to the feature of “Pleasurable and Respectful Interaction with the User” to 2.99 (major problem) related to the feature of “User Control and Freedom”. Also, the average severity of problems was calculated as 2.5, classified in the range of minor problems.
Conclusion: The heuristic evaluation method identifies user interface problems of information systems and dashboards using predetermined standards. If these problems are not resolved, they will cause users’ time wasted, errors to increase, information quality to decrease, and users’ dissatisfaction and confusion.
Fateme Hami Kargar, Narges Nikkhah Ghamsari, Mohammad Ganji,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (10-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 4 (10-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Breast cancer treatment is associated with changes in women’s bodies. Changes that are related to their femininity in addition to the appearance aspect and can face challenges in the part of women’s identity that is related to their body. This research deals with the process of changes in women’s physical identity in the context of culture and society
Materials and Methods: A qualitative method was used for the research, and in this regard, in-depth and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 women from Tehran who had undergone treatment for breast cancer, along with 5 companions who were alongside the patients during their illness, and 3 surgical doctors. The interviews focused on the experiences, emotions, and actions of the women in response to bodily changes. Sampling was conducted through purposive and snowball sampling methods. The thematic analysis technique developed by Braun and Clarke was employed for analyzing the interviews.
Results: The participating women were aged 27 to 65 years, with 8 holding bachelor’s degrees or higher. Seven women were housewives, 8 were employed, and 13 had undergone mastectomies. The main themes identified include changes in the female body, societal challenges, disruption of body image, support and companionship, economic constraints, and the redefinition of body image. These themes explain the process of women’s coping with bodily changes. Following bodily changes, women face challenges from society. Society judges women’s bodies after these changes and views them negatively. Furthermore, women experience dissatisfaction with their bodies, perceiving them as inadequate for fulfilling feminine roles and responsibilities as wives and mothers. However, over time, through acceptance of the changes and body management, women strive to reconstruct their body image. In addition, the women’s economic situation and the support and companionship of those around them—manifesting as acceptance of the bodily changes and emotional support—can facilitate the acceptance of these changes.
Conclusion: Given the importance of the body in defining femininity, women, after experiencing breast cancer, face not only the suffering of the disease but also identity challenges. Therefore, breast cancer treatment, alongside clinical interventions, requires societal awareness of how to interact with affected women.
Materials and Methods: A qualitative method was used for the research, and in this regard, in-depth and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 women from Tehran who had undergone treatment for breast cancer, along with 5 companions who were alongside the patients during their illness, and 3 surgical doctors. The interviews focused on the experiences, emotions, and actions of the women in response to bodily changes. Sampling was conducted through purposive and snowball sampling methods. The thematic analysis technique developed by Braun and Clarke was employed for analyzing the interviews.
Results: The participating women were aged 27 to 65 years, with 8 holding bachelor’s degrees or higher. Seven women were housewives, 8 were employed, and 13 had undergone mastectomies. The main themes identified include changes in the female body, societal challenges, disruption of body image, support and companionship, economic constraints, and the redefinition of body image. These themes explain the process of women’s coping with bodily changes. Following bodily changes, women face challenges from society. Society judges women’s bodies after these changes and views them negatively. Furthermore, women experience dissatisfaction with their bodies, perceiving them as inadequate for fulfilling feminine roles and responsibilities as wives and mothers. However, over time, through acceptance of the changes and body management, women strive to reconstruct their body image. In addition, the women’s economic situation and the support and companionship of those around them—manifesting as acceptance of the bodily changes and emotional support—can facilitate the acceptance of these changes.
Conclusion: Given the importance of the body in defining femininity, women, after experiencing breast cancer, face not only the suffering of the disease but also identity challenges. Therefore, breast cancer treatment, alongside clinical interventions, requires societal awareness of how to interact with affected women.
Alireza Jafarkhani, Behzad Imani, Sina Ghasemi,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (10-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 4 (10-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Today, an important part of the surgeries performed in the operating room are emergency surgeries. Surgeries are generally necessary in the face of acute life-threatening conditions. Today, due to the increase in the number of emergency surgeries performed in hospitals and the challenging nature of these surgeries, several problems have arisen in the operating room. This study aimed to explain the lived experience of operating room nurses of the challenges that arise following the admission of emergency patients.
Materials and Methods: This research is a qualitative study that was conducted using descriptive phenomenology in 2023 in all hospitals affiliated with Hamadan University of Medical Sciences. The samples of this study were selected using purposeful and snowball sampling. In this research, data were collected through 10 semi-structured interviews with operating room nurses. The data obtained were analyzed to determine the main and sub-categories using Colaizzi’s method
Results: The results of this study showed that the average age of the participants was 46.2 years and their average work experience was 18.5 years. After analyzing the interviews, it was found that the challenges arising from the admission of emergency patients from the perspective of the experiences of operating room nurses are classified into three main themes and 10 subthemes. The main themes of this study include operating room supplies and infrastructure (structural limitations of the operating room, provision of human resources for emergency surgeries, provision of equipment and tools required for surgery, and negligence in providing timely medical services), clinical risks during surgery (threat to patient safety, disregard for observing the principles of sterility and the patient's unique physical condition), and coordination and communication (unconstructive interaction of the surgeon with staff, unusual behaviors of companions in the operating room, and insufficient support for the patient by others).
Conclusion: To prevent challenges, early identification is essential. By planning and implementing preventive measures, improving nurse training, improving infrastructure, and strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration, we can improve the quality of emergency surgical procedures and increase patient satisfaction.
Materials and Methods: This research is a qualitative study that was conducted using descriptive phenomenology in 2023 in all hospitals affiliated with Hamadan University of Medical Sciences. The samples of this study were selected using purposeful and snowball sampling. In this research, data were collected through 10 semi-structured interviews with operating room nurses. The data obtained were analyzed to determine the main and sub-categories using Colaizzi’s method
Results: The results of this study showed that the average age of the participants was 46.2 years and their average work experience was 18.5 years. After analyzing the interviews, it was found that the challenges arising from the admission of emergency patients from the perspective of the experiences of operating room nurses are classified into three main themes and 10 subthemes. The main themes of this study include operating room supplies and infrastructure (structural limitations of the operating room, provision of human resources for emergency surgeries, provision of equipment and tools required for surgery, and negligence in providing timely medical services), clinical risks during surgery (threat to patient safety, disregard for observing the principles of sterility and the patient's unique physical condition), and coordination and communication (unconstructive interaction of the surgeon with staff, unusual behaviors of companions in the operating room, and insufficient support for the patient by others).
Conclusion: To prevent challenges, early identification is essential. By planning and implementing preventive measures, improving nurse training, improving infrastructure, and strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration, we can improve the quality of emergency surgical procedures and increase patient satisfaction.
Hojjat Rahmani, Sadegh Moradi, Nayeb Fadaei Dehcheshmeh,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (10-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 4 (10-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The fundamental right and most valuable asset for all strata of society is the enjoyment of health. Individuals residing in nomadic settings face geographical, social, cultural, and linguistic barriers when seeking access to essential services. The provision of healthcare services to nomads has become a complex issue due to the nature of the lifestyle. The aim of this study was to assess the challenges in the provision of healthcare services among the nomads in the Khuzestan province.
Materials and Methods: This study uses a qualitative approach, involving seventeen managers and staff from health centers affiliated with Ahvaz University of Medical Sciences. The data collection approach was inductive. Data were gathered through individual interviews, and participants’ opinions were recorded. The data were analyzed using the conventional content analysis method with a mixed approach (deductive and inductive). The credibility and quality of the data were assessed using the Guba and Lincoln method.
Results: The challenges in providing healthcare services in nomads were identified in nine categories and three overarching themes. The themes encompassed the nature and characteristics of the non-sedentary populations, the healthcare system, and the responsibilities of other sectors. The nature and characteristics of the nomads were categorized into five categories: demographic, cultural, climatic-geographic, socio-ethnic-tribal, and lifestyle. The healthcare delivery comprises of two aspects: structural and procedural. Additionally, the duties of other development sectors were categorized into two categories: infrastructures and inter-sectoral collaborations. The results showed that nomads face barriers to receiving healthcare due to the inherent characteristics of them, the healthcare system, and the performance of other organizations. The unstable population, cultural diversity, scattered distribution of the population, and their ethnic and migration-based lifestyle are among the inherent characteristics of nomads that impact the provision of services.
Conclusion: The provision of health services to nomads is influenced by recipients’ and providers’ characteristics. Decision-makers and managers, considering the unique conditions of life in the design and implementation of health programs, decision-makers and managers should prioritize strengthening healthcare networks in hard-to-reach areas. Given the limited resources and infrastructure weaknesses in settlements, inter-sectoral collaboration and the development of resources and infrastructure (applying the One Health approach) are important.
Materials and Methods: This study uses a qualitative approach, involving seventeen managers and staff from health centers affiliated with Ahvaz University of Medical Sciences. The data collection approach was inductive. Data were gathered through individual interviews, and participants’ opinions were recorded. The data were analyzed using the conventional content analysis method with a mixed approach (deductive and inductive). The credibility and quality of the data were assessed using the Guba and Lincoln method.
Results: The challenges in providing healthcare services in nomads were identified in nine categories and three overarching themes. The themes encompassed the nature and characteristics of the non-sedentary populations, the healthcare system, and the responsibilities of other sectors. The nature and characteristics of the nomads were categorized into five categories: demographic, cultural, climatic-geographic, socio-ethnic-tribal, and lifestyle. The healthcare delivery comprises of two aspects: structural and procedural. Additionally, the duties of other development sectors were categorized into two categories: infrastructures and inter-sectoral collaborations. The results showed that nomads face barriers to receiving healthcare due to the inherent characteristics of them, the healthcare system, and the performance of other organizations. The unstable population, cultural diversity, scattered distribution of the population, and their ethnic and migration-based lifestyle are among the inherent characteristics of nomads that impact the provision of services.
Conclusion: The provision of health services to nomads is influenced by recipients’ and providers’ characteristics. Decision-makers and managers, considering the unique conditions of life in the design and implementation of health programs, decision-makers and managers should prioritize strengthening healthcare networks in hard-to-reach areas. Given the limited resources and infrastructure weaknesses in settlements, inter-sectoral collaboration and the development of resources and infrastructure (applying the One Health approach) are important.
Afshan Tajbakhsh, Nadjla Hariri, Mohammad Hassanzadeh,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (10-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 4 (10-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The development of the internet and the digitalization of higher education have facilitated the possibility of online course delivery, enabling instructors and students to interact through virtual education. Virtual learning can enhance access to educational resources and services through communication technologies, regardless of time and location. Accordingly, the objective of this study is to design a virtual education model for teaching information literacy skills on the websites of medical university libraries across the country.
Materials and Methods: This research was conducted with a mixed approach (qualitative and quantitative). In the first stage, the meta-combination method and the study of previous researches were used according to the research topic and the components were extracted, and after several checks with experts, the necessary concepts and components for the design of the model were extracted. Then, using the Delphi method, experts’ opinions were applied to the output of the meta-combination stage, and the final questionnaire was designed and made available to the statistical community, and finally, in the fourth stage, modeling and validation and fitting of the model took place.
Results: The final model was developed using meta-synthesis and validated by experts, comprising 7 main categories, 14 subcategories, and 102 indicators. The main categories include technical factors, strategic factors, instructor-related components, structural factors, educational factors, content-related factors, and assessment and evaluation factors. From the users’ perspective, the content-related subcategory recorded the lowest value, with a score of 0.518 for users and 0.533 for instructors. Conversely, the assessment and evaluation subcategory achieved the highest scores, with 0.916 from the instructors’ perspective, 0.953 jointly from both users and instructors, and 0.842 for structural factors from the users’ perspective.
Conclusion: The results of the research showed that there is a significant relationship between the virtual training of information literacy skills on the website of the libraries of medical sciences universities of the country and the mentioned factors. Therefore, the model obtained in this study can be a basis for designing and compiling a framework for electronic learning of information literacy. Acquiring information literacy skills and fostering an information-literate society is a crucial necessity in the information age, particularly for graduate students whose work and activities are inherently tied to research and problem-solving.
Materials and Methods: This research was conducted with a mixed approach (qualitative and quantitative). In the first stage, the meta-combination method and the study of previous researches were used according to the research topic and the components were extracted, and after several checks with experts, the necessary concepts and components for the design of the model were extracted. Then, using the Delphi method, experts’ opinions were applied to the output of the meta-combination stage, and the final questionnaire was designed and made available to the statistical community, and finally, in the fourth stage, modeling and validation and fitting of the model took place.
Results: The final model was developed using meta-synthesis and validated by experts, comprising 7 main categories, 14 subcategories, and 102 indicators. The main categories include technical factors, strategic factors, instructor-related components, structural factors, educational factors, content-related factors, and assessment and evaluation factors. From the users’ perspective, the content-related subcategory recorded the lowest value, with a score of 0.518 for users and 0.533 for instructors. Conversely, the assessment and evaluation subcategory achieved the highest scores, with 0.916 from the instructors’ perspective, 0.953 jointly from both users and instructors, and 0.842 for structural factors from the users’ perspective.
Conclusion: The results of the research showed that there is a significant relationship between the virtual training of information literacy skills on the website of the libraries of medical sciences universities of the country and the mentioned factors. Therefore, the model obtained in this study can be a basis for designing and compiling a framework for electronic learning of information literacy. Acquiring information literacy skills and fostering an information-literate society is a crucial necessity in the information age, particularly for graduate students whose work and activities are inherently tied to research and problem-solving.
Taleb Khodaveisi, Hamid Bouraghi, Tooba Mehrabi, Javad Faradmal, Mahdiye Shojaei Baghini, Ali Mohammadpour,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (10-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 5 (10-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Identifying the educational needs of health information technology staff is essential before implementing any continuous education programs. This comprehensive study investigates these needs among health information technology personnel working in hospitals in the Hamadan province, considering both the general and specialized aspects of the field.
Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted across 11 hospitals affiliated with Hamadan University of Medical Sciences. The study population comprised staff from the reception, medical records, statistics, and coding departments. Data were gathered using a validated and reliable standardized questionnaire. Collection methods included both in-person and remote approaches. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software, with results reported through descriptive and inferential statistics, specifically utilizing the Kruskal-Wallis test.
Results: The results of this study showed that among the generally accepted needs, items such as information technology (96.7%), legal aspects of medical records (87.6%), and communication skills (76.7%) had the highest percentage. Additionally, educational needs varied across different units: Coding unit staff required more training in the principles of diagnosis documentation (92.9%), familiarity with the coding guidelines for causes of death (85.7%), and familiarity with the coding guidelines for procedures (85.7%), statistics unit staff needed training in statistical software, and reception and medical records staff required education on relevant regulations. There was also a significant correlation between educational needs and certain individual characteristics such as work experience, education level, gender, and field of study.
Conclusion: The study results indicate that designing effective educational programs for health information technology staff requires consideration of individual characteristics, such as gender, work experience, and education level. Additionally, the training should be continuous, tailored to the distinct needs of each group, and delivered at appropriate intervals.
Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted across 11 hospitals affiliated with Hamadan University of Medical Sciences. The study population comprised staff from the reception, medical records, statistics, and coding departments. Data were gathered using a validated and reliable standardized questionnaire. Collection methods included both in-person and remote approaches. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software, with results reported through descriptive and inferential statistics, specifically utilizing the Kruskal-Wallis test.
Results: The results of this study showed that among the generally accepted needs, items such as information technology (96.7%), legal aspects of medical records (87.6%), and communication skills (76.7%) had the highest percentage. Additionally, educational needs varied across different units: Coding unit staff required more training in the principles of diagnosis documentation (92.9%), familiarity with the coding guidelines for causes of death (85.7%), and familiarity with the coding guidelines for procedures (85.7%), statistics unit staff needed training in statistical software, and reception and medical records staff required education on relevant regulations. There was also a significant correlation between educational needs and certain individual characteristics such as work experience, education level, gender, and field of study.
Conclusion: The study results indicate that designing effective educational programs for health information technology staff requires consideration of individual characteristics, such as gender, work experience, and education level. Additionally, the training should be continuous, tailored to the distinct needs of each group, and delivered at appropriate intervals.
Zohre Abbaszade Molaei, Aeen Mohammadi, Manijeh Hooshmandja,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (10-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 5 (10-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: With the advancement of information technology in the new century, changes are experienced in all aspects of life. One of the reflections of these changes in education is conducting exams electronically instead of paper-and-pencil examinations. The success of virtual education is not achievable without considering the students’ viewpoints towards it. This study aimed to investigate the attitude and performance of students in online exams and their relationship with academic achievement.
Materials and Methods: This research is a mixed-method study (qualitative-quantitative). First, all related articles published, between 2000 to 2022, were extracted from ERIC, PubMed, ScienceDirect databases, and the Google Scholar search engine. Then, the attitude and performance questionnaire was designed and validated based on the literature review results. All BSc and MSc. nursing and midwifery students of Sarivar Nassibeh School filled out the questionnaire. Two hundred and five questionnaires were analyzed with SPSS using descriptive (mean and standard deviation) and inferential (t-test) statistics.
Results: Based on a content analysis of 15 selected articles, the extracted components were structured into 12 items. A preliminary questionnaire was designed with 28 questions across these 12 extracted components. Face validity was assessed using expert opinions, and necessary revisions were made. Both the Content Validity Index (CVI) and Content Validity Ratio (CVR) coefficients were employed for content validity. The final questionnaire comprised 22 items using a five-point Likert scale, ranging from strongly agree (score 5) to strongly disagree (score 1), with an internal consistency of 0.69. Exploratory factor analysis revealed that the questionnaire has six factors: “validity and accuracy”, “technical problems”, “types of questions and announcing the results”, “technique and simplicity”, “motivation and anxiety”, and “speed and error recording” that explain 60.88 percent of the total variance. Correlation results indicated no relationship between students’ attitudes and performance toward electronic examinations and academic achievement (r = 0.055, P-value = 0.432). There was a significant difference between male and female groups, BSc. and MSc. nursing and midwifery students, and semester of study.
Conclusion: The tool for measuring students’ attitudes and performance towards electronic exams has acceptable validity and reliability. This tool can be used to assess online exams and improvement plans.
Materials and Methods: This research is a mixed-method study (qualitative-quantitative). First, all related articles published, between 2000 to 2022, were extracted from ERIC, PubMed, ScienceDirect databases, and the Google Scholar search engine. Then, the attitude and performance questionnaire was designed and validated based on the literature review results. All BSc and MSc. nursing and midwifery students of Sarivar Nassibeh School filled out the questionnaire. Two hundred and five questionnaires were analyzed with SPSS using descriptive (mean and standard deviation) and inferential (t-test) statistics.
Results: Based on a content analysis of 15 selected articles, the extracted components were structured into 12 items. A preliminary questionnaire was designed with 28 questions across these 12 extracted components. Face validity was assessed using expert opinions, and necessary revisions were made. Both the Content Validity Index (CVI) and Content Validity Ratio (CVR) coefficients were employed for content validity. The final questionnaire comprised 22 items using a five-point Likert scale, ranging from strongly agree (score 5) to strongly disagree (score 1), with an internal consistency of 0.69. Exploratory factor analysis revealed that the questionnaire has six factors: “validity and accuracy”, “technical problems”, “types of questions and announcing the results”, “technique and simplicity”, “motivation and anxiety”, and “speed and error recording” that explain 60.88 percent of the total variance. Correlation results indicated no relationship between students’ attitudes and performance toward electronic examinations and academic achievement (r = 0.055, P-value = 0.432). There was a significant difference between male and female groups, BSc. and MSc. nursing and midwifery students, and semester of study.
Conclusion: The tool for measuring students’ attitudes and performance towards electronic exams has acceptable validity and reliability. This tool can be used to assess online exams and improvement plans.
Elham Shakiba, Mahboobeh Sadat Fadavi, Mohammad Ali Nadi,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (10-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 5 (10-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Smart power is the solidarity between science, knowledge and communication. With the advancement of technology, new space has been created in medical sciences. The aim of this research is Explaining the concept of Smart power and identifying its components in Universities of Medical Sciences
Materials and Methods: The current research was done qualitatively in 2023 using the grounded theory method. Deep and semi-structured interview was done with 13 faculty members of Medical Sciences Universities of the country selected through the purposeful and snowball sampling method and reached theoretical saturation. Strauss -Corbin method based on open, axial and selective coding was used for data analysis. To determine the accuracy and validity of the data, after coding the data, the opinions of six interview participants and six university professors who were familiar with the subject and method of the present research were sought.
Results: After the initial concepts were formulated, 77 open codes, 15 core codes, and five selective codes were identified for smart power. Strengthening artificial intelligence, e-health transformation, cross-border activities together constitute health technological responsiveness, are causal factors that affect the phenomenon of smart power. Actions that should be taken for smart power in medical universities, as strategies include technological innovation that is carried out with systematic technology, technological education, and research capacity building. Cyber management with technology-based performance, communication capability enhancement, information management are contextual factors that create special conditions for effective strategies. The conflict between tradition and modernization, information anxiety as organizational risks are intervention factors that interfere with and limit strategies. If the special conditions of strategies are provided and intervention factors are controlled, the outcome of strategies will be technological progress, development of communication network, integration of hard and soft power, and overall comprehensive health.
Conclusion: Using and developing this power, the policy makers of the health system will be able to solve problems such as the non-uniformity of health facilities in different regions, also the use of virtual university and electronic education, which will remove the time and place limitations and provide the opportunity for education to applicants in different parts of the country.
Materials and Methods: The current research was done qualitatively in 2023 using the grounded theory method. Deep and semi-structured interview was done with 13 faculty members of Medical Sciences Universities of the country selected through the purposeful and snowball sampling method and reached theoretical saturation. Strauss -Corbin method based on open, axial and selective coding was used for data analysis. To determine the accuracy and validity of the data, after coding the data, the opinions of six interview participants and six university professors who were familiar with the subject and method of the present research were sought.
Results: After the initial concepts were formulated, 77 open codes, 15 core codes, and five selective codes were identified for smart power. Strengthening artificial intelligence, e-health transformation, cross-border activities together constitute health technological responsiveness, are causal factors that affect the phenomenon of smart power. Actions that should be taken for smart power in medical universities, as strategies include technological innovation that is carried out with systematic technology, technological education, and research capacity building. Cyber management with technology-based performance, communication capability enhancement, information management are contextual factors that create special conditions for effective strategies. The conflict between tradition and modernization, information anxiety as organizational risks are intervention factors that interfere with and limit strategies. If the special conditions of strategies are provided and intervention factors are controlled, the outcome of strategies will be technological progress, development of communication network, integration of hard and soft power, and overall comprehensive health.
Conclusion: Using and developing this power, the policy makers of the health system will be able to solve problems such as the non-uniformity of health facilities in different regions, also the use of virtual university and electronic education, which will remove the time and place limitations and provide the opportunity for education to applicants in different parts of the country.
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