INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CARE SCHOLARS

Addressing Post-Intensive Care Syndrome: A Call to Action for Comprehensive Post-ICU Care

Salizar Mohamed Ludin — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Revolutionizing Nursing Ethics: The Transformative Power of Islamic Legal Maxims

Mohamad Firdaus Mohamad Ismail, Siti Zuhaidah Shahadan — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Stroke Care is Beyond Clinical Responsibility

Siti Noorkhairina Sowtali — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Enhancing Patient Engagement in Managing Diabetic Foot – A Crucial Step in Diabetes Care

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0800

A Systematic Review of Muslim Women’s Knowledge, Perception and View Toward Breast Milk Donation and Milk Bank

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Background: Prematurely born, low birth weight, or sick infants are vulnerable and often do not receive enough breast milk from their mothers. In such cases, donated breast milk from other mothers can be safely stored in a milk bank. However, some Muslim countries have been hesitant to establish milk banks due to religious and ethical concerns. Despite this, a few Muslim nations have established Muslim-friendly milk banks to meet the increasing demand for donated breast milk. Nonetheless, it is unclear whether the Muslim community will fully embrace these efforts. This systematic review aims to gather and appraise evidence on Muslim knowledge, perceptions, and views towards breast milk donation and establishing Muslim-friendly milk banks.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted in Wiley Online Library, Scopus, Science Direct, ProQuest, and EBSCOhost databases using specific search terms and keywords. The search aimed to identify articles published between 2016 and November 2023 that discuss Muslim knowledge, perceptions, and views regarding breastmilk donation, as well as the establishment of Muslim-friendly milk banks. The identified articles were then screened and retrieved.

Results: A total of 2498 articles were initially retrieved out of which only twelve studies met the inclusion criteria and were finally considered for analysis. All the studies were conducted in Middle East countries among Muslim women. The analysis revealed that the majority of Muslim women were not aware of the availability of Muslim-friendly milk banks. They showed reluctance in donating their breast milk due to religious concerns. Moreover, a significant proportion of women expressed their doubts about the endorsement of milk banking due to religious beliefs and concerns regarding the potential transmission of diseases.

Conclusion: Recent studies have shown that there is a lack of awareness regarding Muslim-friendly milk banks, and there are also negative perceptions and views about donating breast milk and setting up milk banks. It is important to provide information that can increase women’s confidence and encourage them to participate in breast milk donation and milk bank utilisation.

An Analysis of the Variables That Impact the Preparedness of Parents to Release Their Premature Babies from the Hospital

He Ting, Tang Li Hua, Siti Fatimah Sa’at — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Background: The thorough preparation of preterm babies for release home is strongly linked to the decision-making process about their discharge and has a significant impact on their health outcomes. It is crucial in facilitating a seamless transition from the hospital to their home environment.

Methods: This paper examines the concept, research significance, assessment, and factors that affect the readiness of preterm infants to be discharged from the hospital. Specifically, we will focus on the impact of various factors, including the infants' characteristics, carers', hospital, and social factors. The goal is to provide a valuable reference for clinical practice.

Results: The factors influencing discharge family readiness can be divided into four areas, which are factors related to preterm infants, factors related to parents, factors related to the hospital, and issues related to the social environment.

Conclusion: Ensuring families receive adequate support and assessing their readiness for discharge is vital. Additionally, using personalized guidance techniques is also crucial for protecting the well-being of premature newborns and improving the overall health outcomes for their families.

Effectiveness of Virgin Coconut Oil Application in Non-Therapeutic Pain Management of Infants by Using NPASS Pain Score as Parameter: An Integrative Review

Chua Mei-Nee , Yee Bit Lian — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Background: There has been greater emphasis in recent years on the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions in soothing infants and reducing pain perception in preterm infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). While approaches ranging from swaddling, breastfeeding, to sensory stimulation have encountered limitations in their effectiveness and practical application across different settings; Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) has concurrently emerged as a potential non-therapeutic remedy for pain management in infants, thanks to its unique composition. Researchers are investigating its safety and effectiveness as an alternative pain management option for neonates. To answer the following questions: (i) can virgin coconut oil effectively help improve skin dryness and irritation in infants? and (ii) how does the effectiveness of virgin coconut oil compare to standard care in neonatal pain management?

Methods: A search of the existing literature was done on online databases using keywords to narrow down the articles.

Results: Based on the selection criteria, 24 articles were selected to be included in this paper. Three main points can be observed that is on: (i) the properties of VCO in skin barrier function and preventing infection; (ii) recommendations for the use of VCO in infant skin care; and (iii) in pain management of neonates.

Conclusion: There is a gap in the literature for how the pain management of infants and the success of VCO in managing skin conditions in neonates can be further studied to develop standards in managing non-therapeutic pain among infants.

Essential Life-Saving Skills for Schoolchildren: A Scoping Review

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Background: Teaching lifesaving skills such as first aid and initial cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to schoolchildren can increase the lifelong ability and motivation of young people to take action in an emergency.

Methods: This scoping review aimed to look for the literature related to the essential life-saving skills for schoolchildren, focusing on first aid and initial cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) before the arrival of medical professionals. A scoping review was conducted by using the PRISMA guidelines to meet the objective of this study.

Results: Fourteen articles published between 2017 and 2024 were analyzed, revealing three main themes: educational approaches for teaching first aid and CPR to schoolchildren, the effectiveness of first aid and CPR Training Programmes for schoolchildren, and barriers and facilitators of First Aid and CPR Training Programmes for schoolchildren.

Conclusion: Findings suggest a crucial need to equip schoolchildren with the necessary skills to respond effectively to emergencies. Recommendations include implementing comprehensive first aid and CPR training programmes as life-saving skills for schoolchildren in schools.

Prevention of Dementia Through Physical Exercise and Cognitive Training: A Narrative Review

Norlinda Abd. Rashid, Zurratul Aina Mohd Zahidin — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Background: Dementia reduces the ability to live independently, thus deteriorating the patient’s quality of life and caregivers' mental health. Consequently, dementia indirectly affects economic and social growth. Dementia is also a major contributor to death worldwide. There is no effective treatment for dementia, but preventing physical and cognitive inactivity among the elderly could help. Studies show that the risk of dementia increases in the elderly with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Methods: This review set out to compare the effects of physical exercise (PE) and cognitive training (CT) on cognitive performance among the elderly with MCI, by examining the evidence from published literature between 2013-2023. Four major electronic databases were used to search the relevant studies, resulting in 2782 articles. A total of fourteen articles were included in the review.

Results: The findings showed that interventions with naturally combined cognitive and physical training not only improved cognitive performance, but also prevented the elderly from stress and fatigue. Integrating physical exercise and cognitive training interventions with the best combination method is crucial to ensure participant adherence. Therefore, the intervention can be incorporated effectively into healthcare policies and programs to support cognitive health in aging populations.

Conclusion: Future studies should also explore the optimal duration of training sessions to maximise cognitive benefits and ensure participant adherence and motivation.

Spiritual Enrichment Through Solah: Impact on Patients and Navigating Challenges in Addressing Spiritual Needs Within Hospital Settings - A Narrative Literature Review

Ratna Zuhairah Abdul Halim, Sanisah Saidi, Nazri Mohd Yusof; Nor Haty Hassan — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Background: This comprehensive review aims to elucidate the perceptions of Muslim patients regarding spiritual activities, particularly the practice of solah (ritual prayers), and its multifaceted impact on their physical, psychological, and spiritual well-being.

Methods: A systematic search across seven prominent databases, including Pubmed, Medline, SCOPUS, ERIC, EBSCO, MyCite, and MyJurnal, was conducted, with the inclusion criteria focusing on papers published between 2010 and 2020. The review uncovered several key themes integral to addressing the research questions. These themes encompassed perspectives on the influence of solah on patients' spiritual well-being and healing processes, healthcare professionals' perspectives on patients' spiritual needs, and the challenges encountered by healthcare professionals in supporting solah while addressing the spiritual needs of patients.

Results: Notably, the review underscored a significant gap in evidence regarding the understanding of patients' perceptions, needs, and preferences in engaging in religious activities such as solah. Additionally, it shed light on the challenges faced by healthcare professionals in facilitating solah during hospitalization, potentially influencing patients' willingness to engage in these spiritual practices.

Conclusion: These review findings emphasize the need for further research to bridge existing gaps in knowledge, ultimately fostering a more comprehensive understanding of the intricate interplay between spiritual activities and the well-being of Muslim patients.

Stress Perception and Coping Strategies Among Healthcare Students: A Systematic Review

Puteri Sara Syerena Sintaan, Norain Abdul Rashid — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Background: The prevalence of stress among university students, particularly those studying in healthcare fields, has emerged as a significant worldwide concern. stress is characterized as a state of mental strain or anxiety stemming from challenging situations. The aim of this review is to deliver a systematic review of previous research, and knowledge on the stress perceived by healthcare students and their coping mechanisms.

Methods: The articles were obtained from the online databases which are PubMed, Ovid Medline, Scopus, CINAHL, and EBSCO Discovery services. Only 40 studies were included in this review.

Results: The result revealed, final year healthcare students mainly from medical and nursing course received stress from workload and assignment, lack of professional knowledge and skill and lack of free time. The students applied problem-focused, emotional-focused and avoidant coping to cope with their stressors.

Conclusion: In conclusion, this review indicates the need for future research to focus on perceived stress and coping mechanisms especially for final year healthcare courses other than medical and nursing to emphasize the broader significant and potential impact on the finding.

Knowledge of Testicular Cancer and Practice of Testicular Self-Examination Among Undergraduate Male Students During Pre and Post Intervention

Mohd Yusuf Zahidi, Azmir Ahmad — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Background: The less promotion on testicular self-examination (TSE) among men may contribute to the increase in testicular cancer cases (TC). While TSE could contribute to early detection of TC, its practice is disappointing among young adults. This study aimed to compare the level of knowledge and practice of TC and TSE, respectively, among IIUM Kuantan undergraduate male students at pre-test and post-test of educational intervention.

Methods: Data collection for pre-test was conducted among 245 male students using a self-administered questionnaire. Videos regarding TC and TSE were given to the respondents as educational intervention. A post-test questionnaire was distributed among the respondents after two weeks of intervention. Knowledge and practice levels at pretest and posttest phases and their association with Kulliyyah background were statistically analyzed.

Results: The score level of knowledge and practice on TC and TSE were 35.31 ± 3.16 and 16.65 ± 3.42, respectively, at pre-test, indicated borderline level between low and high. The post-test showed a significant improvement (p<0.05) in the level of knowledge and practice on TC and TSE with score level of 36.79 ± 2.63 and 18.98 ± 4.60, respectively. There was no significant difference between these results and Kulliyyah background.

Conclusion: The study showed a significant improvement in the level of knowledge and practice of TC and TSE, respectively, among undergraduate male students in IIUM Kuantan Campus. Thus, this study provides a preliminary result on importance of promoting TC and TSE among young adults as a preventive measure in curbing the TC cases from increasing.

Nurses’ Perception of Risk Factors of Phlebitis Associated with Peripheral Intravenous Catheter: A Cross-Sectional Study

Azlina Daud, Noor Isnani Mohd Zaki — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Background: Phlebitis is a main complication of peripheral intravenous catheters. Nurses play an important role in identifying the risk factors of phlebitis in order to reduce the incidence of phlebitis. The purpose of this study is to determine nurses' perceptions of the risk factors for phlebitis.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Hospital Tengku Ampuan Afzan and a random sample of hospital nurses was recruited. 269 participants were involved in this study. All participants are required to answer the questionnaire which divided into two sections, section A regarding socio-demographic background and section B about perception on the risk factors of phlebitis that consist of ten multiple choice questions.

Results: The results showed majority of nurses, 75.8% (204), agreed that phlebitis is a significant problem, while 23.0% (62) thought phlebitis is a moderate problem, and only 1.1% (3) of nurses agreed that phlebitis is a minor problem. Nurses recognized some risk factors for phlebitis; however, more than half of the nurses were unaware that cannula material, size of the cannula, and the characteristics of fluid and drug can affect the development of phlebitis.

Conclusion: The study showed that nurses did not fully perceive the risk factors of phlebitis. However, they were knowledgeable about certain risk factors such as the duration for cannula replacement and the insertion site of the cannula. These findings indicate ongoing training for nurses in peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) management and education about the risk factors of phlebitis are necessary.

Prevalence and Perspectives of Cyberbullying Victimisation and Its Effect on Mental Health Among Students in Public Higher Education Institutions in the East Coast Region

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Introduction: Cyberbullying has emerged as a prevalent issue, were perpetrators harm victims through technology, often anonymously. It is also has been linked with significant negative outcomes in psychological aspects such as social anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, affective disorders, sleeping and eating disorders. Thus, this study aims to examine the association between students' socio-demographics, their experience of cyberbullying and its psychological effects among Public Higher Education Institutions (IPTA) students in the East Coast region.

Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted among 355 IPTA students in East Coast region by using a convenient sampling. The online survey was distributed consist mainly of 3 parts, sociodemographic data, perspective and experiences of being cyberbullied and DASS-21 questionnaires.

Results: 36.6% students have experienced of being cyberbullied, with 19.6% have been cyberbullied almost every day. However, 23.3% reported that the cyberbullying was not harsh at all, 11.4% harsh and 2.0% really harsh. About 24.1% respondents do not have an impact at all, 10.5% have small impact and 2.0% have huge impact on daily life. There was no significant difference between gender and year of study concerning the experience of being cyberbullied among undergraduate IPTA students in the East Coast region (p-value>0.05). However, age showed a significant association with the experience of being cyberbullied (p-value<0.05) with majority of students that had experienced of being cyberbullied was in the range 22-23 years old. There was no significant difference in perspectives on cyberbullying between males and females (p-value>0.05), but age significantly influenced perspectives on cyberbullying (p-value<0.05).

Conclusion: This study suggest that the emotional impact of cyberbullying varies based on individual circumstances and personal perspectives on cyberbullying. Future research should explore the underlying factors contributing to the higher prevalence of cyberbullying among female students and those aged 22-23.

Soft Skill Components in Structured Nursing Clinical Skill Assessment on Assisted Procedures: A Clinical Audit

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Background: Assisted procedures in nursing involve scenarios where nurses are tasked with supporting physicians in the execution of medical procedures. Nursing academics play a crucial role in cultivating appropriate attitudes towards nursing students. This study aimed to examine the soft skill elements in objectively structured clinical skill assessment on assisted procedures in the undergraduate nursing programme.

Methods: A clinical audit was carried out on the retrospective structured clinical skill assessment exam questions by using the clinical skill assessment index V (CSAI-V) instrument. A total of 3 assisted procedures set of exam questions were collected from 7 higher learning institutions in Malaysia where they offered the undergraduate nursing programme. The data were analysed descriptively.

Results: There were 3 assisted procedures out of 237 collected exam documents found and analysed in this study. The assisted procedures were grouped into 7 types to make them more specific. Although there are nine soft skill elements were identified in relation to assisted procedures, including communication, social and responsibility, critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, leadership, professional and ethical decision-making, numeracy, and interpersonal skills. However, none of the identified nine soft skill elements were found in the assessment rubrics.

Conclusion: Thus, the current assisted procedure checklist needs improvement, especially the soft skills components. Besides, higher-learning nursing institutions should visit and revise the content of their checklist and the related materials if they are concerned about quality graduates.

A Qualitative Study of Patients’ Coping Strategies and Expectations Regarding Spirituality During Hospitalisation

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Background: Hospitalisation can be a profoundly unsettling experience, often prompting patients to rely heavily on their spiritual beliefs and practices for comfort and strength. Spirituality, whether it involves prayer, meditation, reading religious texts, or other rituals, can provide significant psychological comfort and help patients navigate the emotional turmoil of their health challenges. The objective is to explore patients’ personal coping strategies and expectations regarding spirituality during hospitalisation.

Methods: This study applied a phenomenological approach. Ten participants were recruited through purposive sampling. They participated in in-depth, face-to-face, and audio-recorded one-time interviews. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis to identify key themes.

Results: Two themes were identified: (1) personal coping strategies with the subthemes: a) faith in God, b) reflection on family, and c) unleashing the power of self-motivation, and (2) Personal expectation with the subthemes: a) fostering attentiveness and empathy in patient care, and b) hospital management’s role.

Conclusion: Patients seeking treatment in hospitals often need more than just physical medical interventions; their overall well-being can also significantly benefit from spiritual care. These findings suggesting hospital management teams to address staffing issues and enhance training programs to foster a more compassionate and patient-centric approach in patient care.

Parent-Child Relationship: Life Narratives of Elderly Parents as Care Receiver

Mary Joy Bermas, Aira Juliana Baltazar, Teresita Rungduin — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Background: As children age, caring for their parents becomes a significant responsibility. In line with this, all parents as they age also undergo drastic life role shifts in their lives. From parents’ responsibility of caring for their children to children’s responsibility of caring for their parents. In the Philippines, an adult child shouldering the responsibility of being their caregiver is normal as it is a Filipino cultural trait that can be traced to the Filipino culture of “utang na loob.”

Methods: To further explore and understand this concept, this study utilized a qualitative narrative inquiry design that focuses on understanding the life narratives of Filipino elderly parents regarding the parent-child relationship and care being a care receiver. A semi-structured and open-ended one-on-one interview was conducted with 5 Filipino elderly parents eligible for the participant’s criteria of this study.

Results: The findings showed that the development of the parent-child relationship from the role of parents as care providers until it shifts to being a care receiver, influences the type and quality of care the caregiver provides. Moreover, most Filipino elderly parents regardless of sex prefer their daughters as their primary caregivers as they elicit more caregiving behavior, unlike their sons.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the parent-child relationship plays a significant role in the care elderly parents receive from their adult childcare providers. Moreover, elderly parents consider caring for them as their children’s obligation towards them.

The First-Time Fathers’ Experiences in Early Fatherhood: A Descriptive Qualitative Study

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Background: Becoming a father is a stressful transition period for men, presenting numerous challenges from caring for their newborns to navigating changes in family dynamics. Recently, cultural expectations have shifted, transforming the role of the father from primarily being a breadwinner to being more actively involved in parenting. There is growing evidence that first-time fathers encounter various obstacles and have unmet needs during the parenting period. Thus, before encouraging fathers in society to take on more active parental roles, it is crucial to gain a comprehensive understanding of their support needs, experiences, and challenges. This study aimed to explore the experiences of the first-time fathers in the early parenthood.

Methods: A semi-structured interview was conducted with ten participants residing in the community of Kuantan, Pahang. The data was analyzed using a content analysis approach to emerge the themes. Results: Four themes and 18 sub themes emerged from this study, elucidating the experiences of first-time fathers in parenthood. These themes are: Adaptation and changes, Paternal involvement, Challenges and coping mechanisms, and Support and needs of first-time fathers. This study reveals that entering parenthood as a first-time father can be highly challenging. Despite a clear lack of preparation for their roles, the participants demonstrated good coping mechanisms and generally regarded the experience positively.

Conclusion: The findings highlight the necessity for targeted support systems and resources tailored to first-time fathers to help them navigate the transition into parenthood more smoothly. It is recommended that healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations develop programs and interventions that address the specific needs of new fathers, including education on newborn care, emotional support, and strategies for balancing work and family responsibilities. By doing so, society can better support first-time fathers in their evolving roles, ultimately benefiting the entire family unit.