Showing 700 results for Type of Study: Research
Marzieh Khounani, Davoud Shojaeizadeh, Zahra Jalili,
Volume 22, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Health brokers are responsible for conveying messages related to a healthy lifestyle to the target community, who are selected by them in the public participation houses, otherwise called People's Home for Participation in Health (PHPH). Implementing focused educational interventions can strengthen the self-efficacy of health brokers in performing health-promoting behaviors. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of educational intervention based on self-efficacy theory on the healthy lifestyle of health brokers.
Materials and Methods: This was a quasi-experimental and interventional study with a pretest-posttest design and a control group in 2024. The statistical population included health brokers in PHPHs affiliated with Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Using the simple random sampling method 4 participating households were selected as the experimental group, the rest acting as the control group; the total number of participants was 74. Four 2-hour training sessions were held for the experimental group, and reviewing of the topics and assignments and answering questions were done through a virtual training group. Data were collected using standard "self-efficacy" and "health-promoting lifestyle" questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS 28, the statistical tests being Chi-square, T-test, Pearson, and Kolmogorov–Smirnov tests.
Results: After the intervention, the health-promoting lifestyle score increased from 30.40±21.00 to 168.31±24.71 and the health self-efficacy from 68.57±10.21 to 84.57±11.84 in the experimental group (P<0.001). The highest significant correlation was observed between lifestyle dimensions and self-efficacy (r=0.741)
Conclusion: The findings of this study show that training based on self-efficacy theory can improve healthy lifestyle behaviors in brokers and can be used as an effective strategy in health education.
Javad Siahmoshtei, Mahmoud Zivari Rahman, Niloofar Mikaeili,
Volume 22, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Cancer patients face numerous psychological and physical challenges in which various psychological, social, economic and medical variables are involved. This study aimed to model the structural equations of coping strategies in cancer patients based on early maladaptive schemas with the mediating role of health literacy.
Materials and Methods: This was a correlation analysis study based on structural equation modeling. The statistical population consisted of cancer patients aged 20 to 60 years visiting private medical centers in Tehran between April 20th and September 21st, 2024, from among whom 665 participants were selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using the Early Maladaptive Schemas Questionnaire (1998), the Adult Health Literacy Questionnaire (2023), and the Coping with Stressful Situations Inventory Questionnaire (1990) and analyzed using the structural equation modeling methods using SPSS 25 and Amos 24 software at a significance level of 0.05.
Results: Data analysis showed that the early maladaptive schemas had a statistically negative relationship with health literacy (β = ─ 0.84, p < 0.001) and a positive relationship with coping strategies (β = 0.25, p < 0.001). In addition, health literacy had a negative association with coping strategies (β = 0.83, p < 0.001). In addition, health literacy had a negative association with coping strategies (β=─0.83, p<0.001).and an intermediary role in the association between primary maladaptive schemas and coping strategies (β=0.25, p<0.001). Goodness-of-fit indices indicated an adequate fit of the model (GFI = 0/916, IFI = 0/910, CFI = 0/909, and RMSEA = 0.078).
Conclusion: The findings show that early maladaptive schemas are associated with low
health literacy and coping behaviors in cancer patients. Improving health literacy can, as a mediating variable, moderate these negative effects, and can also contribute to better constructive coping behaviors. Educational interventions to increase health literacy can be useful in mental therapy and rehabilitation.
Seyedeh Kamelia Davoodzadeh, Seyyed Jafar Moosavi, Farshad Emami, Somaieh Borjalilu,
Volume 22, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: This study aimed to design a qualitative model of the role of media in the development of home-based sports during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Materials and Methods: This was an interpretivism research with a qualitative approach (Grounded theory). Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 15 experts in sports sciences and media selected purposefully using the snowball technique. The interviews were analyzed both textually and aurally using the MAXQDA 2024 software. To ensure research validity, expert knowledge of the participants and external review of the coding by two specialists in physical education were used. The inter-coder reliability was assessed using recoding reliability, resulting in a coefficient of 0.82.
Results: Analysis of the interviews yielded 405 meaningful units, ultimately categorized into 32 final codes which were identified into five main dimensions based on the systematic paradigm of Strauss and Corbin and in line with the design of the model, including causal conditions (infrastructural limitations, sociocultural impacts), contextual factors (media coordination with sports institutions), intervening factors (technical challenges in content production), strategies (digital interaction, platform development), and consequences (engagement in online exercise, media economic sustainability). The findings of the qualitative model showed that the expansion of digital media and shifts in the audience behavior played a central role in the development of home-based sports.
Conclusion: Developing home-based sports requires purposeful investments in digital platforms, contents tailored to the audience needs, and leveraging digital data and analytics. In addition, the media must also strengthen their collaborations with sports institutions and revise their strategic approaches, considering the current technical challenges and economic constraints.
Zeinab Khaledian, Javad Moazzeni, Liela Najafi, Nasim Badiei, Fatemeh Yonesi,
Volume 22, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Providing high-quality prenatal and postnatal care plays a crucial role (during pregnancy and at labor) in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality and complications, improving outcomes, and increasing patient satisfaction and enhancing healthcare system efficiency. This study aimed to assess the quality of intrapartum care using the Comprehensive Quality Measurement in Health Care (CQMH) model.
Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive study conducted in 2020 at Ommol banin hospital in Mashhad, Iran, including 324 mothers admitted for childbirth. Participants were selected through simple random sampling and data were collected using the CQMH questionnaire, which assesses three dimensions of care quality, namely, technical quality, service quality, and customer (client) quality. Data analysis was performed using the SPSS version 27.
Results: The overall quality index score was 80.9. Technical quality was rated as favorable (mean score: 90.3), while service quality (mean score: 79.5) and customer quality (mean score:73) were rated as moderate. As regards service quality communication, continuity of care and preventive measures had the lowest scores.
Conclusion: While the technical quality of intrapartum care was found to be satisfactory, there is a pressing need to strengthen provider–patient communication and empower mothers to actively participate in theirown care during childbirth.
Maryam Tajmahal, Ebrahim Rahimi,
Volume 22, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Q fever, caused by Coxiella burnetii, is a zoonotic disease widely distributed in humans and livestock. It affects domestic animals, wildlife and humans. This disease is asymptomatic in livestock and its clinical consequences include abortion, stillbirth, infertility, mastitis and endometritis. Unpasteurized milk and dairy products are the most important source of transmission of C. burnetii to humans. The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence of C. burnetii in traditional cheese and raw cow's, sheep's, goat's and buffalo’s milks
supplied in Qom city, Iran using the Nested PCR method.
Materials and Methods: Initially 150 samples including 30 samples of traditional cheese and 120 samples of raw cow's, sheep's, goat's and buffalo’s milks were selected from the supply centers in Qom city in the summer of 2024 and transferred to the laboratory under sterile conditions to prevent secondary contamination. The samples were tested using the Nested PCR method to detect contamination.
Results: The results showed that out of a total of 120 samples of raw ruminant milk and 30 samples of traditional cheese, 8 samples (5.33%) were contaminated with Coxiella burnetii. The proportions of contaminated samples in cow's, sheep's and goat's milks and traditional cheese were 3 (2%), 1 (0.67%), 1 (0.67%) and 3 (2%), respectively; buffalo raw milk was not contaminated.
Conclusion: Based to the results of the present study, it is recommended to prohibit the consumption of raw dairy products to reduce the risk of pathogenicity and infection by Coxiella burnetii.
Sahar Hojjati Far, Majid Movahed Majd, Serajaldin Mahmoudiani,
Volume 22, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Health literacy plays an important role in the health of a society and population during times of illness. During the coronavirus outbreak human resilience and health of the population were at risk. Health literacy and its various dimensions are known as an important factor in strengthening human health. Therefore, research on the relationship between the coronavirus pandemic and health literacy can help formulate policies to promote people's health.
Materials and Methods: This study was a survey in which data were collected using a questionnaire. The statistical population was all citizens of Shiraz city, Iran from whom a sample of 400 people was selected by random sampling. SPSS and LISREL were used to analyze the data.
Results: Analysis of the data collected revealed statistically significant positive correlations between reading, decision-making, health behavior literacy and gender with COVID-19 self-care (p < 0.05). The structural equation model showed that decision-making and behavior had the highest predictive power for COVID-19 self-care, with an impact factor of 3.36. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that reading, decision-making, behavior and gender are important factors influencing COVID-19 self-care, while assessment and access have the least impact. These findings can guide healthcare professionals to develop strategies aiming to enhance self-care practices in future pandemics.
Mansoureh Ganjali, Leila Najafi, Zeinab Khaledian,
Volume 23, Issue 1 (6-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The return of working mothers to the workplace after maternity leave is a critical and complex stage in women's career paths, influencing the balance between their familial and professional roles. Understanding the challenges at this stage is essential for improving policies and support systems.
Materials and Methods: This qualitative study, employing content analysis, was conducted in 2025 at Zahedan University of Medical Sciences. The study population included employed mothers after childbirth and health sector managers. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using conventional content analysis. Ethical principles and data validation were emphasized.
Results: A total of 30 participants, including 20 employed mothers’ post-childbirth and 10 managers, were included. The findings were categorized into five main themes: psychological, familial, organizational, cultural and social, and legal and supportive challenges, encompassing 13 subthemes and 34 distinct codes.
Conclusion: According to the findings, revising organizational policies, enhancing legal awareness, and providing a flexible and supportive work environment for employed mothers are essential. Given the unique cultural and social characteristics of Sistan and Baluchestan province, this study can guide policymakers and health managers in improving working conditions for mothers.
Seyedeh Hajar Hosseini, Ahmad Kalateh Sadati, Seyed Alireza Afshani, Behnam Honarvar,
Volume 23, Issue 1 (6-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Health advocacy is a learnable skill and professional attribute acquired through the process of professional socialization, in which health professionals, particularly physicians, play an active role in supporting patients’ rights. The aim of this study was to explore the professional socialization of pediatricians in advocating for children’s health.
Materials and Methods: This qualitative and exploratory study presents finding derived for the first time within the context of Iranian medical education, through the conceptualization of narrative data obtained from semi-structured interviews. Participants included 19 pediatricians and pediatric residents from medical universities in Iran’s Sixth Health Education Region, centered at Zanjan University of Medical Sciences. The sample size and data volume were determined by the criterion of data saturation, and participant recruitment followed purposive linear and exponential snowball sampling. Coding and conceptualization were conducted through an inductive–deductive thematic analysis using MAXQDA 20 software. The credibility and dependability of the findings were ensured through analytical comparison by the researcher and peer review.
Results: A total of three main themes, twenty subthemes, and 199 basic themes were identified, showing that pediatricians are socialized at micro, meso, and macro levels for child health advocacy. The main themes were: the active physician (micro-level or individual socialization within the doctor–child communication context), the advocate institution (meso-level or organizational socialization within the doctor–staff–organization context), and the structuring of the defending physician (macro-level or collective socialization within the doctor–structures–society context), all reflecting how pediatricians become socialized as child health advocates.
Conclusion: By strengthening the positive aspects and addressing the negative factors of professional socialization, the socialization of pediatricians as child health advocates can be enhanced at the micro, meso, and macro levels.
Mohammad Bidkhori, Mahdi Akbarzadeh, Noushin Fahimfar, Bagher Larijani, Iraj Nabipour, Afshin Ostovar, Kourosh Holakouie-Naieni,
Volume 23, Issue 1 (6-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The Trabecular Bone Score (TBS) is a novel tool for assessing bone microarchitecture and identifying individuals at risk for osteoporotic fractures. This study aimed to evaluate the association between Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) of the SOST gene and TBS in Iranian postmenopausal women.
Materials and Methods: This study included 1/071 postmenopausal women from the Bushehr Elderly Health (BEH) Cohort study. Relationship between Seven independent SNPs in the SOST gene located on chromosome 17q21.31 were investigated with TBS L1–L4. Associations were tested using generalized linear models under additive, dominant, and recessive genetic models. A genetic score was also calculated by summing the weighted number of risk alleles based on the regression coefficients of the SNPs.
Results: After adjustment for age and Body Mass Index (BMI), SNP rs2023794-C showed a statistically significant association with TBS in the additive model (β = 0/ 03, P = 4/7×10⁻⁵, PFDR = 0/0003) and the dominant model (β = 0/033, P = 2/5×10⁻⁵, PFDR = 0/0003). Furthermore, higher genetic scores were positively associated with increased TBS values.
Conclusion: Our findings highlight the potential role of SOST gene variants and derived genetic score in predicting bone quality in postmenopausal women. These genes could aid in identifying individuals at higher risk of poor bone quality and in developing personalized osteoporosis prevention strategies.
Fatemeh Limoparvar, Hossein Ansari, Majid Sartipi, Zahra Arab Borzu,
Volume 23, Issue 1 (6-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Domestic violence is a major social harm against women, with serious negative effects on the health and well-being of both mothers and children. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of domestic violence among women attending comprehensive health service centers in Zahedan and to examine its relationship with the developmental status of their children.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024 on 454 women who visited comprehensive health service centers in Zahedan with their children. Participants were selected through a multi-stage sampling method. Data were collected using the standardized Domestic Violence against Women questionnaire developed by Mohseni Tabrizi. Statistical analyses were performed using chi-square tests and logistic regression in Stata 14 software.
Results: The overall prevalence of exposure to domestic violence among women was 43%. Domestic violence showed a significant association with poor child development (CI: 1.39–3.00, OR: 2.06). Logistic regression analysis indicated that maternal exposure to domestic violence, along with factors such as parental history of childhood violence, paternal addiction, and maternal age, were significantly related to behavioral disorders in children (p ≤ 0.05).
Conclusion: The findings highlight the crucial impact of domestic violence on women’s well-being and the developmental outcomes of their children. These results can assist policymakers and social planners in designing effective strategies to reduce domestic violence and promote healthy child development.
Shahram Ranjdoost, Zahra Khandani, Mohammad Azimi, Morteza Golshani Gehraz,
Volume 23, Issue 1 (6-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The present study aims to qualitatively analyze the content of lower secondary school science textbooks in terms of the reflection of health education concepts and assumptions, with the goal of improving students’ comprehensive health development and quality of life through the prevention of social harms.
Materials and Methods: This study employed a qualitative and descriptive content analysis using a deductive approach. The units of analysis included pages (texts, questions, exercises, and illustrations). The statistical population consisted of all lower secondary school science textbooks used in the 2017–2018 academic year. Purposeful sampling was applied, and all three textbooks were selected for analysis. A content analysis checklist was used as the research instrument. To ensure validity, face validity, content validity, and expert opinions were applied, while reliability was confirmed using the retest technique, yielding a correlation coefficient of 0.89.
Results: A total of 698 instances of health education components were identified across the three textbooks. The most frequent component was “familiarity with body functions and organs” with 344 occurrences. In contrast, components such as “assertiveness and self-confidence”, “healthy communication with others”, “empathy and compassion”, “awareness of diseases such as AIDS”, “drug abuse”, and “consultation in life” were entirely absent from the analyzed content.
Conclusion: The findings indicated that health education components are distributed unevenly across the science textbooks of lower secondary education. Some components were underrepresented or completely missing. Therefore, educational policymakers and textbook authors should pay greater attention to the balanced and comprehensive inclusion of health education elements in lower secondary science curricula.
Roghayeh Khosravi, Serajaldin Mahmoudiani, Maryam Rashidi,
Volume 23, Issue 1 (6-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Today, social health, as one of the four main axes of health, has gained a special significance in developmental and human-centered approaches, leading to the conduct of theoretical studies and extensive operational programs worldwide.
Materials and Methods: This study investigates the relationship between a health-oriented lifestyle and social health in infertile women, as reported by the Shiraz Reproductive Health Research Center. The overall design of this study is descriptive-correlational. 385 infertile women referring to reproductive health research centers in Shiraz were selected from infertility treatment clinics in Shiraz using a convenience sampling method and completed the research instruments. Then, the collected information was analyzed. Data analysis was examined in two parts: descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results: Data analysis showed that a health-oriented lifestyle has a positive and significant relationship with social health and its dimensions, and that health-oriented lifestyle dimensions predict social health of infertile women. There is a significant relationship between social health and age. Social health among infertile women varies significantly by education and employment status. Also, there is no significant difference in social health among infertile women in terms of the number of abortions and duration of marriage.
Conclusion: According to the research findings, it can be said that educating infertile women about a health-oriented lifestyle can be effective in increasing their social health and, as a result, increasing the likelihood of infertility treatment success.
Hajar Moradi, Serajeddin Mahmoudiani, Roghayeh Khosravi, Parnian Karami,
Volume 23, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The decline in fertility rates in Iran has prompted a reconsideration of population policies. Recent pronatalist policies have failed to increase fertility levels. Given the rising age at marriage among women and the consequent postponement of childbearing, maintaining fertility requires the utilization of modern technologies. Accordingly, this study aimed to examine women’s beliefs regarding oocyte cryopreservation and their association with individual characteristics.
Materials and Methods: The study population comprised married women of reproductive age. A total of 384 married women of childbearing age in Shiraz were surveyed using a standardized questionnaire. Sampling was performed through a combination of multistage cluster sampling and systematic random sampling. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, version 27.
Results: Age was positively correlated with favorable beliefs regarding oocyte cryopreservation (r = 0.133). Higher ideal fertility was also associated with more positive beliefs in this regard (r = 0.017). Regression analysis indicated that an increase in ideal fertility was significantly associated with more positive beliefs about oocyte cryopreservation (β = 0.588). Women with university education held significantly more positive beliefs than those with non-academic education (β = 1.105). Age was also identified as a significant predictor of positive beliefs (β = 0.07).
Conclusion: Higher educational attainment and improved socioeconomic status among women may contribute to more favorable beliefs toward oocyte cryopreservation. Positive attitudes toward this technology may, in turn, help maintain fertility levels and potentially increase them in the future.
Azar Houri, Roya Sadeghi, Azar Tol, Mahdi Yaseri, Yaser Tedadi,
Volume 23, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Adolescence is a critical period for educational investment, which can enhance individual quality of life and reduce the future burden of disease and healthcare costs. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of direct education and peer education on health-promoting behaviors among first-grade middle school students in Shush, Khuzestan, in 2024.
Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental study with pre-test, post-test, and three-month follow-up was conducted on 448 female first-grade middle school students in Shush using multistage cluster sampling. In the peer education group, selected students served as peer educators after receiving training and passing written and practical evaluations. Data were collected using the Walker Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile (HPLP-II). The intervention was delivered in eight 60–90-minute sessions. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics in SPSS software version 27, with a significance level of 0.05.
Results: Both direct and peer education significantly improved health-promoting behaviors (p< 0.05). Direct education had greater effects on overall scores and the dimensions of health responsibility, physical activity, and stress management, which persisted up to three months. Peer education had the strongest impact on interpersonal relationships and spiritual growth.
Conclusion: Both direct and peer education are effective in promoting health behaviors; however, direct education provides more durable effects on core health dimensions, while peer education primarily enhances interpersonal and motivational aspects. A combination of these methods may yield better outcomes in promoting student health.
Vida Saghari, Hossein Jalali, Nabi Shariatifar, Mona Belandi,
Volume 23, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Edible films represent an innovative solution for meat preservation, helping to reduce spoilage and extend shelf life. This study aimed to investigate the effect of edible films containing whey protein and free-form or Pickering emulsion of Trachyspermum copticum L. essential oil on the properties of beef during refrigerated storage.
Materials and Methods: Edible films containing whey protein and T. copticum L. essential oil (in free and Pickering emulsion forms) were prepared. Their physical, microbial, and chemical properties, as well as sensory attributes, were evaluated.
Results: Physical tests demonstrated successful film preparation, with the average zeta diameter of nanoliposomes ranging from 73.91 to 110.53 nm, polydispersity index (PDI) from 0.451 to 0.471, zeta potential from −5.12 mV to −3.64 mV, and encapsulation efficiency from 49.61% to 64.23%. The best performance in microbial, chemical, and sensory evaluations was observed in the treatment containing whey protein with nano-essential oil (Pickering emulsion), compared to the control and free essential oil samples.
Conclusion: The results indicate that edible films containing whey protein and nano-essential oil of T. copticum L. can be an effective strategy for storing beef under refrigerated conditions, improving product shelf life.
Mehdi Ahmadi, Farzad Amiri, Zahra Naghibifar, Mohammad Mehdi Mansouri, Armin Naghipour,
Volume 23, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Excessive use of antibiotics increases bacterial drug resistance in patients with diabetic foot ulcers. Therefore, the use of natural compounds as supplements may be effective in managing diabetic wound infections alongside conventional drugs. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Sarizh ointment (containing natural ingredients) on the healing of infected diabetic foot ulcers.
Materials and Methods: This single-center randomized clinical trial was conducted on patients with diabetic foot ulcers hospitalized in the infectious disease department of Imam Reza Hospital, Kermanshah. Microbial cultures were obtained from the foot ulcers of all patients using the punch method. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups: control and intervention. The control group received systemic antibiotics and a placebo dressing, while the intervention group received systemic antibiotics in addition to Sarizh herbal compounds as a supplement.
Results: A total of 30 patients with a mean age of 58.93 ± 6.15 years were included. The duration of hospitalization was 17.40 ± 3.06 days in the control group and 16.87 ± 3.52 days in the intervention group. The healing time was 17.34 ± 2.87 days in the control group and 12.06 ± 2.40 days in the intervention group. Sarizh ointment significantly reduced the healing time of diabetic foot ulcers (p = 0.001). Post-discharge bacterial cultures were negative, and complications such as redness, discharge, and pain at the wound site were similar between the two groups.
Conclusion: Sarizh ointment can be used as a complementary treatment alongside standard therapy to reduce healing time and promote wound recovery in patients with diabetic foot ulcers.
Zahra Akhavi Samarein, Shirin Ahmadi, Maratefollah Bigdli , Shahram Tahmasebi,
Volume 23, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Bullying in schools remains one of the major challenges of educational systems.This study aimed to investigate the prediction of school bullying based on family atmosphere, with the mediating role of students’ sense of belonging to school.
Materials and Methods: This study employed a descriptive–correlational design using a structural equation modeling approach. The statistical population consisted of all male students enrolled in public second-level high schools in Ardabil during the 2023–2024 academic year. A sample of 200 students was selected through convenience sampling. Participants completed standardized questionnaires, including the School Bullying Questionnaire developed by Patchin et al. (2011; Cronbach’s alpha = 0.94), the Family Emotional Climate Questionnaire by Heilbrun (1964; Cronbach’s alpha = 0.86), and the School Belongingness Questionnaire by Mouton et al. (1993; Cronbach’s alpha = 0.89). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling in SPSS version 25 and SmartPLS version 4.
Results: The results of structural equation modeling indicated that family emotional climate (β = −0.61, p < 0.001) and sense of school belonging (β = −0.57, p < 0.001) had direct and negative effects on school bullying. Additionally, family emotional climate (β = −0.17, p < 0.05) had an indirect effect on school bullying through the mediating role of sense of school belonging. The model fit indices (NFI = 0.93, SRMR = 0.07) demonstrated a satisfactory fit of the model to the data.
Conclusion: From a practical perspective and in line with the obtained results, it is recommended that psychologists and school counselors implement educational workshops focused on strengthening family relationships and teaching positive social behaviors to enhance family atmosphere and students’ sense of belonging to school.
Afsaneh Mosleh, Najmolmolook Amini, Masumeh Sehati, Maryam Soroush, Houra Askarian,
Volume 23, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Rationalizing drug use is a priority in drug policy-making. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the evaluation of prescriptions using drug prescribing indicators. Improving prescribing patterns leads to closer alignment with WHO indicators and, consequently, promotes rational drug use.
Materials and Methods: In this study, ten prescriptions were randomly selected from each pharmacy on a monthly basis. WHO prescribing indicators, including the average number of drug items per prescription and the percentage of prescriptions containing at least one antibiotic, one injectable drug, and one injectable corticosteroid, were calculated. The sample size of the prescriptions evaluated over eight consecutive years, stratified by network/center, was 4,800 in Shahr-e Rey, 14,520 in Eslamshahr, and 5,880 in the South Tehran Health Center.
Results: The average number of drug items per prescription ranged from a minimum of 2.5 to a maximum of 3.99, showing a considerable difference from the WHO-recommended average of 1.7. The percentage of prescriptions containing at least one antibiotic fluctuated from 33.36% to 63.93%, which was substantially higher than the WHO-recommended average of 20.3%.
Additionally, the percentage of prescriptions containing at least one injectable drug ranged from 23.7% to 44.9%, differing markedly from the WHO-recommended average of 18.75%.
Conclusions: Rationalizing drug use should be prioritized in drug policies. Adopting a principled prescription-writing model based on WHO indicators can serve as an appropriate criterion for evaluating physicians’ prescriptions at the primary health care (PHC) level.
Mina Molaei, Zeinab Khaledian, Leila Najafi, Shaqayegh Vahdat, Ali Fakhr Movahedi,
Volume 23, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The nursing profession, as a vital pillar of the healthcare system, plays a crucial role in delivering health and medical services. In clinical settings, teamwork and conflict management are key factors for improving the quality of care and reducing workplace stress. A positive attitude toward teamwork can enhance conflict management skills and contribute to higher job satisfaction among nurses. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between teamwork attitude and conflict management among nurses, to better understand this association and propose strategies to improve team collaboration and reduce conflicts in healthcare settings.
Materials and Methods: This quantitative descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in 2025 in Tehran. After obtaining the necessary permissions, the researcher visited three hospitals affiliated with Azad University and distributed online questionnaires among nurses. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS software.
Results: Findings indicated that 63% of the nurses were female, and 44% were aged between 30 and 40 years. Eighty-five percent held a bachelor's degree, 49.5% were formally employed, and 37.5% worked at Farhangian Hospital. A strong positive correlation was observed between teamwork attitude and conflict management (r = 0.815). Significant differences in conflict management were noted across age groups (p = 0.03) and work experience (p = 0.03).
Conclusion: The results suggest that demographic factors such as age, marital status, and employment type significantly influence nurses’ conflict management and teamwork. Specifically, experience, communication skills developed with age, and social support among married nurses enhance team interactions. Moreover, cultural and organizational factors affect the impact of gender and work environment on conflict management. Therefore, targeted training and the establishment of supportive structures for diverse groups are essential for promoting effective teamwork in healthcare settings.
Mohsen Rafikhah, Hamed Moslehi,
Volume 23, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Deficits in inhibitory control can lead to numerous problems, including academic, social, and occupational difficulties, and may also affect psychological and neuropsychological functions. This study aimed to examine the role of cognitive inhibition in the psychological symptoms of mothers of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in 2024.
Materials and Methods: Ninety-three mothers were selected through convenience sampling. After obtaining informed consent, participants were assessed using the Stroop Color–Word Test and the SCL-90-R questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) with SPSS version 26.
Results: Correlation and MANOVA results indicated that inhibitory control performance had a strong and significant association with the depression, anxiety, and phobic anxiety subscales (p < 0.001). The observed effect sizes (ranging from 0.39 to 0.67) highlighted the influential role of inhibition as a key underlying mechanism in explaining the variance of these symptoms. No significant relationships were found between inhibition and the other SCL-90-R subscales.
Conclusion: Optimal performance of neuropsychological functions, particularly inhibitory control, can play a vital role in mental health. Accordingly, interventions based on cognitive inhibition training are recommended.
