Ciencia y Enfermería

WORKING CONDITIONS OF NURSES AND PATIENT SAFETY IN A PERUVIAN PUBLIC HOSPITAL

2024-11-30T22:57:29-05:00

Objective: To establish the relationship between the working conditions of nurses and patient safety management in a Peruvian public hospital. Material and Method: Quantitative, basic, correlational research conducted in 2022; the population consisted of 300 nursing professionals working in a hospital in Callao, Lima, Peru, with a sample size of 169 at a 95% confidence level. Using a Google Forms questionnaire, the self-assessment of working conditions by García Ubaque and the Surveys on Patient Safety Culture (SOPS) 2.0 were applied, both validated (0.788 and 0.724) by KR20 and Cronbach’s alpha, respectively. Descriptive statistics were applied using the SPSS statistical software version 27.0 to assess the level of categorical variables, and based on numerical values, the non-parametric Spearman’s rho test was applied with 95% confidence, establishing significance with values below 0.05. Results: Risky working conditions were found (80.2%), with the majority being extralaboral risks (84.5%); 100% of participants rated patient safety
management as a strength, with communication safety being the most prominent (99.4%). Conclusions:
The lower the risky working conditions, the greater the strengths in patient safety management.

PREVALENCE OF ANKYLOGLOSSIA IN NEWBORNS AT A HOSPITAL IN THE COQUIMBO REGION, CHILE

2025-03-16T16:49:34-04:00

Objective: To determine the prevalence of ankyloglossia in newborn babies at a hospital in the Coquimbo Region, Chile, during the first four months of 2022. Material and Method: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study based on the analysis of the institution’s databases was conducted. Prior to implementation, the project was approved by the research ethics committee. Results: The sample consisted of 324 newborn babies, 166 of whom were female. The average birth weight was 3.292 kg. The mean gestational age was 38.47 weeks. The median length was 49 cm. The prevalence of ankyloglossia in the sample was 16.7%. The highest proportion was found in male newborns (25.9%) compared to female newborns (7.8%), giving a ratio of 3.3:1. Male newborns were 3.31 times more likely to develop
ankyloglossia than female newborns. Conclusions: The resulting prevalence is similar to that reported internationally. Further research is recommended to generate more evidence in support of the care of newborns and children with ankyloglossia.

CHALLENGES FACED BY PRIMARY CARE NURSES IN THE PREVENTION OF SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS IN ADOLESCENTS

2024-05-07T10:42:04-04:00

Objective: To identify the obstacles faced by primary care nurses in implementing strategies for the prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in adolescents.
Materials and Methods: Qualitative, descriptive and exploratory study, conducted with an intentional and non-probabilistic sample of 5 nurses working in primary care in the
municipality of Santana do Mundaú, Alagoas, Brazil, who were interviewed in a semi- structured interview between September and October 2023. During the first face-to-face
interview, the informed consent form was read and signed. As the number of professionals interviewed was limited, 2 interviews were conducted in order to achieve greater depth of
the phenomenon and theoretical data saturation. The collected data were categorized in NVIVO12 software and subjected to content analysis according to the methodological
framework proposed by Bardin. Results: The results are presented in three categories: lack of demand from adolescents for health services; excessive work demands and lack of
material resources; interference from parents/guardians. Conclusions: The obstacles faced by nurses working in primary health care for the prevention of STIs in adolescents are
rooted in the absence of this population in health services, high work demands, lack of material resources and parental interference in participating in such activities in the school context.

CONTENT ANALYSIS OF THE NURSING DIAGNOSIS OF SEDENTARY LIFESTYLE IN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

2025-09-24T10:17:01-04:00

Objective: To analyze the content of the conceptual and operational definitions of the essential attributes, related factors, defining characteristics, at-risk population,
and associated conditions of the nursing diagnosis of sedentary lifestyle in university students. Material and Method: Methodological study, based on content analysis. Data collection was carried out with 48 judges between August and
December 2023. A Likert scale, with scores ranging from 0 to 4, was used to evaluate the relevance, clarity, and accuracy of thirty elements. The judges' characterizations were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and agreement was assessed using the Wilcoxon test with a significance level of 5% and a confidence
interval of 95%. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee. Results: The analyzed items were considered valid for the nursing diagnosis of sedentary lifestyle among university students (p-value < 0.05). Sedentary lifestyle
was defined as physical activity with frequency, intensity, and duration below the recommended levels, characterized by a reduced self-perception of health. This diagnosis has four defining characteristics, eight related factors, four at-risk
populations, and one associated condition. Conclusion: The content of the elements of the nursing diagnosis sedentary lifestyle in university students was considered valid by the judges. This result clarifies the concept under study, strengthens specific instruments in the field, and increases the level of evidence for
this nursing diagnosis.

PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE IN THE CONTEXT OF THE PANDEMIC: ACHIEVING COMPETENCIES IN NURSING STUDENTS

2025-03-06T19:34:48-05:00

In response to the demands of the country during the pandemic, the School of Nursing at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile offered final-year students the opportunity to
advance their studies with an innovative Academic Certificate of Specialty in Nursing in Health Alert Situations. Objectives: To understand students' perceptions of their experience and the competencies they acquired during their final internship in the context of the pandemic, and to provide an objective evaluation of their knowledge. Material and Method: Mixed sequential study with an exploratory design. In the qualitative phase, perceptions were explored using a satisfaction questionnaire. In the subsequent quantitative phase,
knowledge was evaluated using a specific, standardized test. The study population consisted of 74 students who completed their internship between April and July 2020. A
total of 45 students participated in the study through non-probability sampling and informed consent. Results: Qualitative analysis revealed that the internship's primary
contributions were reducing health personnel's workload, team integration, and providing emotional support to patients. Students described the experience as unique, meaningful, and irreplaceable in terms of personal and professional growth. In the knowledge evaluation, all students performed "very well" with an average score of 6.44 (SD 0.33) on a scale of 1 to 7; most students scored over 6 in both disciplinary and transversal skills. Conclusion: This certification proved to be an effective response to the health crisis, enabling the continuity of quality training while strengthening the role of students as future resilient professionals who are committed and prepared to face disaster contexts.

THE MOTHER-CHILD BOND IN HOSPITALIZED PREMATURE NEWBORNS: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY

2025-07-26T15:56:15-04:00

Objective: To understand the bonding experiences between mothers and their premature infants hospitalized in neonatal intensive care units (NICU). Materials and Methods: A qualitative phenomenological study based on Colaizzi's method was conducted. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 mothers of preterm infants (<37 weeks) hospitalized for at least 7 days in two public hospitals in the Colombian Caribbean. Interviews were held at two points: at discharge and one month after hospital discharge. Methodological rigor was ensured through Lincoln and Guba’s criteria. Results: Five main thematic units emerged: 1) bonding marked by initial fear at premature birth; 2) physical and emotional barriers imposed by the hospital environment, hindering mother-infant contact; 3) gradual discovery of the maternal role through permitted caregiving activities within the NICU; 4) progressive reconstruction of the maternal bond at home after discharge, mediated by continuous contact and daily caregiving experiences; and 5) significant emotional transformation in motherhood following hospitalization, highlighting both resilience and psychological consequences such as anxiety and feelings of guilt. Conclusions: The hospital environment can negatively affect the initial establishment of the mother-infant bond. Humanized care practices in the NICU, such as early skin-to-skin contact, active and early maternal involvement in neonatal care, and ongoing emotional follow-up after hospital discharge, are recommended.

CONTENT VALIDITY OF THE ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION SCALE IN FAMILY CAREGIVERS OF CHRONIC PATIENTS IN COLOMBIA

2025-02-11T16:54:32-05:00

Objective: To evaluate the face and content validity of the Anxiety and Depression Scale HADS in family
caregivers of people with chronic non-communicable diseases in Colombia. Materials and Methods:
Psychometric study. To determine the content validity, 9 expert judges in the clinical or research field were
invited. Clarity, redundancy and relevance of the items were assessed using the Lawshe index modified
by Tristán. Face validity was established by a cognitive interview with 30 family caregivers of people
with chronic diseases. Results: For content validity, 13 of 14 items on the Anxiety and Depression Scale
HADS presented an adjusted content validity ratio (CVR) greater than 0.7. Item 2 showed a CVR of 0.5,
which required analysis and semantic adjustment by the validation committee. In terms of face validity,
it was found that for all items, 87% or more of the participants reported adequate understanding, recall,
judgment, and appropriateness of the items. The semantics of items 1, 2, 8, 9, 11, and 14 were adjusted.
Conclusions: The Anxiety and Depression Scale HADS has adequate psychometric properties of content
and face validity for use in caregivers of people with chronic illness in the Colombian context.

AURICULOTHERAPY AS A PRACTICE FOR CARE OF MENOPAUSAL WOMEN: A CONVERGENT APPROACH TO PRIMARY CARE

2025-07-16T18:20:33-04:00

Objective: To understand the perceptions of women who use auriculotherapy, as well of those of healthcare professionals regarding the management of clinical manifestations of menopause in Primary Care, at a Family Health Unit
(USF) in the metropolitan region of Salvador, state of Bahia, Brazil. Materials and Methods: Convergent Care Research was implemented in four phases: conception, instrumentation, scrutiny, and analysis; conducted with 12 menopausal women and healthcare professionals, between April and June
2024, through group discussions and interviews, which were analyzed
according to Bardin’s method. Results: The women's ages ranged from 46 to 60 years, with an average age of 53; most self-identified as Black; and half were married and living with a partner; two-thirds had completed secondary education; receives up to one minimum wage and the predominant religion was Protestantism. Most of the healthcare professionals had worked at the USF for more than 10 years. The two physicians in the group had received training in auriculotherapy, aromatherapy, and circle dancing. Women reported some benefits of auriculotherapy, and the professionals incorporated its use/recommendation into the individualized menopause care plan. Both groups had positive perceptions regarding a reduction in the frequency and/or intensity of clinical manifestations. Measurement of the Kupperman Menopausal Index validated these perceptions following auriculotherapy use. Conclusion:
Convergent care research revealed the importance of including auriculotherapy into women's healthcare during menopause in primary health care units.

MEANINGS AND EXPERIENCES OF NURSES DURING THE PROFESSIONAL INCORPORATION IN THE HEALTH CODE IN CHILE

2025-01-21T13:43:17-05:00

Objective: To reveal the experiences of nurses during the ethical-legal transition in the practice of the profession in Chile, regarding the inclusion of nursing in the Health Code in 1997. Materials and Methods: Qualitative-descriptive study, with a phenomenological approach and a design based on Schutz's Theory of Meaning applied to 8 nurses, through an interview. To ensure the rigor of the study, the criteria proposed by Lincoln and Guba were followed. Regarding ethical rigor, the
participants voluntarily signed an informed consent form and the study was reviewed and approved by a university ethics committee. Results: 3 dimensions were defined: subjective, intersubjective and the motivation of the respondent´s experience, each of which was composed of different categories. Conclusion: The
experience of nurses is difficult to interpret and understand despite the universality of the sample and the specificity of the phenomenon, nevertheless the dimensions are interesting to analyze in depth.

CLINICAL STAGE, SELF-ESTEEM AND BODY IMAGE PERCEPTION IN WOMEN WITH MASTECTOMIZED BREAST CANCER

2025-06-27T13:08:38-04:00

Objective: To relate the sociodemographic characteristics and clinical stage of women with mastectomized breast cancer to their self-esteem and body image perception. Material and Method: Descriptive, crosssectional study conducted with a population of 318 women with mastectomized breast cancer and a sample of 174 women. A questionnaire was administered to obtain sociodemographic information and clinical stage data. The Rosenberg and Body Image (BIS) scales were used to determine self-esteem and body image perception, respectively. Data were processed using SPSS version 27.0. Descriptive statistics were used, and Spearman’s correlation coefficient was applied to analyze the relationships between the
variables. Women with low self esteem between the ages of 41 and 65 predominated (58%), 23% had a secondary education, 21% were married, and 22% were in stage III of the disease. There is a weak but significant positive correlation between the stage of the pathology and of body image perception, that is, as the stage of the disease progresses, there is a slight tendency for changes in body image perception. Conclusions: Sociodemographic factors were not significantly related to self-esteem or body image perception. However, self-esteem was significantly influenced by body image perception, which
may have important clinical and psychological implications. Progression of the disease stage affects body image perception.

VALIDATION OF THE COSTA RICAN APPRAISAL OF SELFCARE AGENCY SCALE

2025-01-14T12:16:04-05:00

Objective: To evaluate the construct validity and reliability of the Appraisal of Self-Care Agency Scale among university students majoring in health-related fields. Material and Method: An instrumental design was employed using a convenience sample of health-sciences students from two Costa Rican universities. Data was collected via an online survey in October 2023, sent to all eligible students (response rate: 30.16%; final sample: n= 361; mean age= 23.61 ± 5.30 years). Participants under 18 were excluded. A Confirmatory Factor Analysis was conducted to assess the fit of different models. Results: After respecification, the model showed good fit to a three-factor structure (?2= 240, df= 72, p < .001; CFI= .90, TLI= .88, RMSEA= .08, SRMR= .06).
Conclusions: The respecified three-factor model proved to be a better solution than the traditional unifactorial model for health- related students. The alignment between the designations used for the three factors and the original theoretical model of the instrument was also discussed.

CULTURAL COMPETENCE IN HEALTH CARE STUDENTS AT A CHILEAN UNIVERSITY

2025-06-18T10:45:38-04:00

Objective: To determine the levels of cultural competence among students in various health-related degree programs at a Chilean university and how these levels are associated with sociodemographic variables. Material and Method: Descriptive cross-sectional, correlational study. The sample consisted of 354 undergraduate students in their final year of various health-related degree programs. The Cultural Competence Measurement Scale (EMCC-14) was used to assess cultural competence across three dimensions: sensitivity, knowledge, and cultural skills. Associations were then analyzed with respect to age, gender, academic program, and previous knowledge of the topic using the non-parametric tests: Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis H. Results: Students who did not identify as either male or female
reported the highest cultural competence scores (? 91.1 points). Among academic programs, Nursing and Occupational Therapy had the highest scores (81.1), while Kinesiology and Medical Technology had the lowest (70.5 and 71.4, respectively). A statistically significant difference was found in the medians of the sub-area “Knowledge” according to gender (p=0.010). Conclusion: Significant gaps in cultural competence were identified across health-related programs during professional training. There is an urgent need to critically revise curricula and integrate cultural competence education across programs. Further research should explore the link between gender diversity and cultural competence in health professionals.

COVID-19 VACCINATION STATUS AMONG UNDERGRADUATE NURSING STUDENTS

2025-01-06T13:20:56-05:00

Objective: To know the status of vaccination against COVID-19 among undergraduate nursing students. Materials and Methods: Cross-sectional study, with a quantitative approach, conducted with undergraduate nursing students of a private university located in southern Brazil. A non-probabilistic purposive sample of 60 enrolled students was used. Data collection was performed between September and December 2024 and the instrument measured sociodemographic aspects and a structured questionnaire with 6 questions related to their COVID-19 vaccination status. Before the final application, a pilot test was conducted with a group of five randomly selected nursing students. Data analysis was performed using
simple descriptive statistics. Results: 90% of the participants (n= 54) responded that they had no problems
to participate in the immunization, on the other hand, 10% expressed vaccine hesitancy. The denialist
movements may have influenced the lack of adherence to vaccination in the small group of students.
Conclusion: The study shows that students are committed to public/community/family health through immunization.

FACTORS INFLUENCING MOTHERS’ KNOWLEDGE OF THE PENTAVALENT VACCINE, LIMA, PERU

2025-04-14T18:46:24-04:00

Objective: To evaluate the factors influencing mothers’ knowledge of the pentavalent vaccine for children under five years of age who attend immunization services. Materials and Methods: Observational, analytical,
cross-sectional study conducted with a sample consisting of 181 mothers who attended a public hospital in Lima, Peru, in 2023. Knowledge about the pentavalent vaccine was measured using a 12-question
questionnaire. Bivariate analysis used the Chi-square test and Poisson regression with crude prevalence
ratio (PR) calculation. Results: 51.93% of mothers had no knowledge of the pentavalent vaccine. Similarly, 82.32% of all mothers did not receive training on the vaccine. Factors associated with greater knowledge of this vaccine included older age (PR= 1.03; 95% CI= 1.01-1.06; p= 0.003), being married (PR= 1.59; 95% CI= 1.16-2.17; p= 0.004), and previous training (OR= 1.48; 95% CI= 1.09-2.01; p= 0.013). Conclusions: More than half of mothers are unaware of the pentavalent vaccine. Additionally, most have not received training on the vaccine. On the other hand, factors associated with greater knowledge include being older, being married, and having received previous training. Based on these findings, healthcare providers should communicate with and educate mothers effectively about vaccines.

CULTURAL COMPETENCES IN NURSING FOR AFFIRMATIVE AND COMPREHENSIVE CARE FOR TRANS PEOPLE

2024-12-18T13:45:53-05:00

Objective: To explore the cultural competence in nursing that facilitates comprehensive, affirmative, and respectful care for trans people, considering the dimensions of sensitivity (affective), skills (technical),
and knowledge (intellectual) in care interventions. Material and Method: A qualitative and interpretive case study was conducted with 16 nursing professionals from a public health hospital in Chile (South Metropolitan Health Service), through in-depth semi-structured interviews, with prior informed consent and no refusals or dropouts. Responses were transcribed and organized into categories using illustrative vignettes. Through thematic analysis and coding, a codebook of up to fourteen codes was developed, from which a final category was determined. Theoretical saturation was reached at the ninth interview, but all 16 interviews were completed for greater depth. In terms of methodological rigor and quality, the criteria of credibility, transferability, dependency, and confirmability were considered. Results: 3 categories
emerged: I. knowledge; II. nursing care; III. comprehensive care. Conclusions: Cultural competence in
nursing was essential to provide comprehensive and affirmative care to trans people. An innovative vision
promoting respect for diversity and training in cultural competence to plan appropriate care was key.
Professionals demonstrated awareness of trans needs, particularly in mental health, and implemented
sensitive and effective assessments and care plans.

CHALLENGES FACED BY NURSING STAFF DURING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF HUMANIZED CARE IN CRITICAL SERVICES

2025-04-06T21:55:43-04:00

Objective: To analyze the challenges faced by nursing staff during the implementation of humanized care in
critical services. Material and Method: A qualitative, descriptive, phenomenological study was conducted in 2024 with a sample of 14 nursing professionals from adult and pediatric intensive care units (ICU) in Ecuadorian hospitals. The sample was selected using convenience sampling until information saturation was reached. A semi-structured interview, validated by a pilot test, was administered and processed using the Colaizzi’s method and the COREQ criteria to guarantee the quality of the analysis. Results:
Six categories were identified: 1) Difficulties in implementing the open-door model in critical areas, 2)
Influence of the open-door model in ICUs, 3) Quality of care in critical care services under the opendoor model, 4) Necessity of the open-door model for emotional well-being, 5) Strategies to humanize care in ICUs, and 6) Development of the model in ICUs. Conclusion: Implementing the open-door model improves the emotional well-being of patients and families but faces structural and organizational barriers. Continuing education and clear protocol design are essential to optimizing care.

PERCEPTION OF KNOWLEDGE AND SAFE PRACTICES IN THE ADMINISTRATION OF INOTROPIC DRUG AMONG NURSING PROFESSIONALS

2024-12-03T11:11:51-05:00

Objective: To describe the perceptions of nursing professionals’ regarding their knowledge and safe practices in the administration of inotropic drugs in emergency departments. Materials and Methods: Qualitative approach with an ethnomethodological design. The sample consisted of 8 nurses with
experience in the emergency department, chosen by convenience sampling. The analysis and interpretation of the study data followed the method of Hernández Sampieri and Mendoza. The ATLAS.ti version 2022 computer tool was used. The criteria for rigor and quality in qualitative research were considered, and the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) were applied. Results: Five categories emerged: 1. Implementation of training and updating programs for the safe administration of inotropic drugs in the emergency department; 2. Theoretical/practical knowledge for the safe administration of inotropic drugs in the emergency department; 3. Recommended practices for the safe administration of inotropic drugs in the emergency department; 4. Identification and prevention of medication errors in the administration of inotropic drugs in the emergency department; 5. Effectiveness of training programs for the safe administration of inotropic medications. Conclusion: This study highlighted the importance of continuing education for the safe administration of inotropic drugs and the effective patient management in the emergency department. These aspects are essential for improving the quality and safety of care in this critical setting.

SELF-PERCEPTION OF SWALLOWING IN PEOPLE WITH COVID-19, NOT HOSPITALIZED AND HOSPITALIZED IN MEDIUM AND BASIC CARE UNITS

2025-03-23T12:41:27-04:00

Objective: To describe the self perception of swallowing of people in Santiago de Chile who suffered from
COVID-19 between March 2020 and September 2022 and were hospitalized in medium-basic care units or were not hospitalized. Material and Method: Observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study that included 36 participants who suffered COVID-19, separated into groups of hospitalized and non-hospitalized
individuals. The Eating Assessment Tool (EAT-10) questionnaire was used. Results: The mean age of the
hospitalized group was 39.95 years, compared to 37.38 years for the non-hospitalized group. The mean number of days of hospitalization was 19.78. The overall mean of the EAT-10 score for the hospitalized and non-hospitalized group was 4.83 and 2.67 points, respectively. The group of non-hospitalized individuals concentrated more responses in the “no problem” category than the group of hospitalized individuals. This group reported greater self-perceived alteration in the parameters of swallowing safety, efficiency, competence and comfort. Conclusions: Those who were hospitalized perceived greater alteration in the parameters of swallowing safety, efficiency, competence and swallowing comfort. The mean EAT-10 score indicates the risk of dysphagia among hospitalized patients. Further research on quality of life is suggested.

PERCEPTION OF OBSTETRIC VIOLENCE AND QUALITY OF CARE IN THE MAULE REGION, CHILE

2024-07-08T15:59:27-04:00

Objective: To determine the levels of Obstetric Violence (OV) perceived by a sample of women in the Maule Region, Chile, and to establish a link between these levels and their perception of the quality of care. Material and Method: A descriptive, retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted on women who reported having given birth in a public or private hospital in the Maule Region (n= 474). The women were included in the database of the 1st Regional Study on Sexual and Reproductive Rights and Gender
Violence in Talca, between July and September 2023. The variables considered were obstetric violence,
inadvisable childbirth practices, perceived autonomy and perceptions of the quality of care received during childbirth. According to the nature of the variable, descriptive analysis (frequency, percentage or mean, standard deviation, maximum and minimum) was performed, as well as association tests (Chisquare) and comparisons of means (Student’s t-test). The measure of the associations (Phi) was quantified and the effect size of the comparisons of means (Cohen’s d) was calculated. Results: 35.5% of participants reported experiencing obstetric violence during childbirth. The OV rate was 64% among women who are not heterosexual, compared to 34% among heterosexual women. There was a correlation between experiencing OV and having negative perceptions of quality of care during childbirth. Conclusions: This study confirms the significant prevalence of OV in the Maule Region, affecting one in three surveyed women, constituting an important public health problem

ADVERSE EVENTS ASSOCIATED WITH HOSPITAL CARE IN COLOMBIA: A GEOGRAPHICAL ANALYSIS

2025-03-11T19:15:26-04:00

Objective: To identify adverse events associated with hospital care in Colombia between 2017-2022.
Materials and Methods: Descriptive, quantitative study with Colombian healthcare institutions, public or private, that had reported to the quality information system. Sources of information included databases from the National Observatory of Health Care Quality (ONCAS Colombia), on adverse events, geographic location and discharges. The variables studied were falls, pressure ulcers and medication errors. Statistical analysis was descriptive: frequency and percentage measures were used for qualitative variables, and measures of central tendency and dispersion were used for quantitative variables according to their nature, as determined by the Shapiro-Wilk test. For the geographic analysis, the results were divided into 32 departments and one capital district, which were then categorized by nodes. Results: Data from 1,109
health institutions were analyzed. The national rate of pressure ulcers was 1.39, and 2021 had the highest number of records with a rate of 2.37. The overall rate of falls in the hospital setting was 1.34, while in the emergency department, it was 1.89. The national proportion of medication errors during hospitalization was 2.01, while in the emergency department, it was 0.80. Conclusion: Falls in the emergency department
were the most common event, followed by falls during hospitalization. Additionally, the occurrence of adverse events in Colombia exhibits a heterogeneous geographic distribution, with few reporting institutions predominantly in the Amazonia and Orinoquía regions.

TREND IN HOSPITALIZATIONS FOR PRIMARY CARE-SENSITIVE CONDITIONS IN TWO AMAZONIAN REGIONS OF PARÁ, BRAZIL

2025-08-10T10:32:33-04:00

Objective: To analyze the trend of hospitalizations for primary care-sensitive conditions (PCSC) in the Baixo Amazonas and Tapajós health regions, in the state of Pará, Brazil, from 2014 to 2023. Material and Method: Longitudinal ecological
study conducted in two regions of epidemiological relevance that have structural challenges in the primary health care (PHC) network, such as low sanitation coverage and the presence of riverside and indigenous populations. All hospital admission authorizations from the Hospital Information System for residents in
these regions were analyzed when the main diagnosis corresponded to the official list of 19 PCSC groups defined by Ordinance SAS/MS No. 221/2008. The dependent variable was the annual hospitalization rate for PCSC per 100,000 inhabitants, calculated as the ratio between the number of hospitalizations to the
estimated population by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), standardized by age. Temporal trends were assessed using Prais–Winsten linear regression, considering statistical significance at p<0.05. Results: A statistically
significant downward trend in PCSC rates was identified in both regions, with a steeper decline observed in the Tapajós region. The main causes of hospitalization were gastroenteritis, urinary tract infections, and diabetes mellitus. Inequalities were observed in the distribution of causes and in the most affected age groups, revealing different patterns of vulnerability. Conclusions: Despite the downward trend in PCSC rates, challenges related to case underreporting and the limited problem-solving capacity of PHC remain. Using secondary data may result in an underestimation of the observed rates. This reinforces the need for intersectoral and territorialized strategies, sensitive to regional specificities, to strengthen
primary care in the Amazonian region.

INFLUENCE OF CARE AND FEEDING PRACTICES ON THE NUTRITIONAL STATUS OF INFANTS

2025-07-21T21:51:13-04:00

Objective: To determine the influence of infant care and feeding practices on body mass index in children under two years of age, and to identify differences in feeding practices according to the intensity and age at which care begins. Material and Method: Descriptive cross-sectional study with a correlational design. We
analyzed 220 infants, aged 6 to 24 months, who attended a checkup with a family medicine specialist nurse at a public sector daycare center in an urban area of Sinaloa, Mexico, with their mother, father, or formal or
informal caregiver. Sociodemographic data on the participants, the infant’s care environment, and feeding
practices were collected. Anthropometric measurements were taken. Multiple linear regression, KruskalWallis test, and Mann-Whitney U test were applied. Results: Informal care (?=0.73; p=0.004), intensity of
care (?=0.41, p=0.006), mixed feeding (?=-0.63, p=0.007), overeating (?=0.71, p=0.001), and inadequate frequency (?=0.51, p=0.026) positively influenced the infant’s body mass index. Additionally, differences in the amount and frequency of feeding were observed in relation to the intensity and age of onset of care.
Conclusions: The results of the study highlight the critical role of infant care and feeding practices, as they
constitute risk factors in the care environment that can impact the infant’s nutritional status.

KNOWLEDGE, USE OF NUTRITIONAL LABELING, CONSUMPTION AND PREFERENCES FOR ULTRA- PROCESSED FOODS AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

2025-02-05T21:37:33-05:00

Objective: To determine the knowledge of and use of nutrition labelling as well as perceptions about the consumption of ultra-processed products among university students using a mixed methods study. Material and Method: This mixed-methods study analyzed nutrition knowledge, the use of nutrition labelling, and consumption of ultra-processed products among the university population. A total of 423 adults between 18 and 30 years of age completed a structured questionnaire, and 9 students participated in a semi- structured interview. Descriptive analysis and Chi2 test were performed. A thematic analysis was performed on the qualitative data. Results: Front-of package labelling provides quick and easy-to-understand information (95% of participants had knowledge and comprehension). Around 19% of participants used labelling to decide which product to purchase. 57.21% considered an affordable price to be essential when choosing processed foods or beverages. Despite being aware of the nutritional labeling system, university students indicated a preference for the frequent consumption of ultra-processed products due to their taste, availability, and price. Conclusion: Labeling policies must be strengthened to include warning
messages that improve understanding of ultra-processed product components. Furthermore, more studies are needed to better understand how to encourage consumers to choose healthier foods.

EARLY NURSE INTERVENTION BY NURSING PROFESSIONALS IN NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE: THE SACRED HOUR

2025-06-23T19:11:09-04:00

Objective: To analyze nurses’ attitudes toward implementing interventions in critical neonatal areas during the sacred hour, ensuring early attachment and preserving the emotional bond. Materials and Methods: Qualitative study with a phenomenological design and descriptive scope. Twelve nurses from neonatal intensive care units of hospitals in Guayaquil, Ecuador were interviewed using non-probability snowball sampling and information saturation. A semi-structured guide validated in a pilot test was used. The
data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s method to identify key themes. Results: Four categories emerged: 1. Interventions implemented during the sacred hour to preserve the mother-child bond; 2. Nursing actions developed to provide humanized care during the sacred hour in maternal and neonatal health; 3. Limitations in family-centered neonatal care during the sacred hour, and 4. Family attitude toward the emotional detachment from early contact and the loss of the sacred hour. Conclusion: The first hour of life is crucial for the mother-father-child bond, promoting the adaptation of the newborn and maternal
recovery. The ESAMyN (Mother and Child Friendly Establishments) strategy and continuing nursing training are essential, but limitations such as a lack of resources and staff affect the quality of care. Therefore,
developing inclusive strategies in intensive care is vital to maintaining the family bond.

DISCOURSES AND PRACTICES OF ACCEPTABILITY IN HEALTH CARE FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF HEALTHCARE PERSONNEL AND MIGRANTS

2025-01-03T09:22:37-05:00

Objective: To understand, based on the discourses and practices of migrants and health officials, what
elements operate in the acceptability dimension of the right to health in the process of using the health system in the city of Antofagasta (Chile). Materials and Methods: Qualitative, phenomenological study with elements of grounded theory. The non-probabilistic, snowball sample in both groups consisted of 17 health
professionals and 8 international migrant users of the Chilean health system. The semi-structured in-person or online interviews lasting approximately 60 minutes, were conducted between October and November 2020. Saturation took into account information redundancy and variability. Thematic analysis was applied through repeated readings of the transcripts. Results: Subcategories of language, comprehension, and communication emerged from predetermined categories of language, culture, and ethics. Conclusions: Strategies such as language appropriateness, non-use of technical words, added to educational and origin characteristics of migrants allow for greater comprehension of the information. Cultural elements allow for greater understanding and adherence in migrants. Ethics in health practice encourages the establishment of close relationships and the visualization of the other as a human being with rights and dignity. This
approach fosters mutual respect during the care process.

FAMILY FUNCTIONING AND SOCIAL SUPPORT ON THE EATING HABITS OF PEOPLE WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES

2025-04-13T01:03:17-04:00

Objective: To analyze how family functioning and the social support perceived and provided by the family members influence the eating habits of people with type 2 diabetes. Material and Method: A descriptive, cross-sectional study with a correlational design and convenience sampling. A total of 161 family dyads (322 participants in total) were recruited from Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico. Of these participants, 161 had type 2 diabetes and 161 were family members. The APGAR Family and Berlin Social Support Scales, the Family Eating Habits Questionnaire, and a data sheet were applied. Results: Women
predominated; the average age was 52.2 (patients) and 36.1 (family members). Families consisted of
nuclear families with an average of 4.24 members. Eating habits were related to family functioning (r= 0.522, p? ,001), social support perceived by patients (r= 0.407, p? .001), and social support provided by family members (r= 0.368, p? .001); 28.6% of the variance in eating habits was explained by family functioning (?= .93) and social support provided by family members (?= 0.20). Conclusions: In the family dyads there was a relationship between the studied variables: patients and family members reported good family functioning, patients and family members perceived social support from their families. Both groups
also indicated having adequate eating habits. Family functioning and the social support provided by family
members explain the eating habits of patients with type 2 diabetes.

LIFESTYLES IN HUMAN HEALTH STUDENTS: AN ANALYSIS ACCORDING TO NOLA PENDER

2025-03-24T22:03:21-04:00

Objective: To analyze lifestyles according to Nola Pender’s model among students at the Faculty of Health Sciences at a university in Ecuador. Material and Method: Descriptive, quantitative, non experimental, crosssectional study. The population comprised 1432 students from the Faculty of Human Health (September 2024 - February 2025). A sample of 303 students was obtained using stratified probability sampling and was distributed among five-degree programs: human medicine, nursing, clinical laboratory science, clinical psychology, and dentistry. The validated “Health Promotion Lifestyle Profile” questionnaire (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.93) was used, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The study was approved by an Ethics Committee and complied with bioethical principles. Results: Most of the participants were women (67.7%), most were between 18 and 21 years old (74.3%), and most were Human Medicine students (43.6%). Analysis of general lifestyle revealed a slight tendency toward an unhealthy profile (54.5%). Unhealthy habits were identified in dimensions such as exercise (86.1%), health responsibility (79.5%), and stress management (80.2%), while self-actualization (69.3%), interpersonal support (58.7%), and nutrition (54.1%) reflected a healthy lifestyle. Finally, four of the five programs analyzed showed an unhealthy profile, with Clinical Laboratory Science being the area with the highest percentage (73.5%). Conclusion: Despite their training in healthcare, many students do not practice healthy habits, demonstrating a gap between theory and practice that compromises their future role as health promoters.

EDUCATIONAL SELF-CARE INTERVENTIONS IN CAREGIVERS OF ELDERLY PEOPLE: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

2025-02-11T21:34:55-05:00

To analyze educational interventions to improve knowledge and skills in caregiving and self-care capacity in caregivers of elderly people. Material and Method: An integrative review was carried out between May and June 2023 using the following databases: EMBASE, MEDLINE, Web of Science, LILACS, BDENF. The search was conducted without language filters and included studies published up to December 2022. The review included intervention studies, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), quasi-experimental studies, and cluster studies. The selection and analysis were performed by the research team. A total of 165 publications were identified. After the first analysis, 139 were excluded, and after review, 14 were eliminated because they did not meet the inclusion criteria. Finally, 12 articles were selected. Results: Only three of the analyzed studies were conducted by nursing professionals. The topics addressed regarding caregiving knowledge and skills for the elderly included involving other family members in care, knowledge about disease, modifying the environment, problem solving and communication, and managing emotions and stress. Topics addressed regarding self-care included self-recognition, self reflection, and nutritional orientation. Conclusions: Since interventions for the self-care of caregivers of elderly individuals are scarce, it is necessary to design interventions that strengthen caregivers’ knowledge and skills regarding functional dependence and self-care.

NONPHARMACOLOGICAL INTERVENTIONS FOR SLEEP IN NEONATES, INFANTS, AND TODDLERS: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

2025-01-14T17:39:09-05:00

Objective: To compare the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions versus usual care in improving sleep quality in hospitalized patients. Materials and
Methods: An integrative review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines, covering articles published between January 2019 and August 2024 in databases such as BVS, Web of Science, PubMed and Science Direct. The selected studies
were evaluated using the CASPe template and the GRADE system. Quasi- experimental studies and RCTs, focused on the hospitalized neonates, infants or children, using non-pharmacological interventions for sleep induction, in English,
Spanish or Portuguese language, were included. Results: In the 7 articles that met the inclusion criteria, 8 non-pharmacological interventions were identified: therapeutic touch, white noise, Reiki, illuminated mobile, rose oil, music therapy, story reading, lullabies (sung or recorded), as well as kangaroo care method. These
interventions demonstrated improvements in sleep duration and quality. However, the level of evidence was low in one study, medium in two and high in four. Conclusion: The identified strategies could be useful and cost-effective in various clinical settings depending on available resources. The limited number of studies highlights the need for further research in these age groups to optimize the care for hospitalized patients.

ANALYSIS OF THE CONCEPT OF PEDIATRIC TRIAGE ACCORDING TO THE WALKER AND AVANT MODEL

2025-07-09T15:49:02-04:00

Analyze and define the concept of pediatric triage using the Walker and Avant model, identifying its essential attributes, background, consequences, and related concepts. Based on the model proposed by Walker and Avant, the 8 steps that
contribute to the methodology will be developed to arrive at the concept from a theoretical point of view. The analysis allowed identifying as essential attributes of pediatric triage the prioritization, rapid and safe classification of pediatric risk, the
updating and continuous training of personnel, the need to educate parents and caregivers, the use of appropriate scales for risk assessment, and the use of competencies such as empathy, assertive communication, and decision making. A thorough understanding of the concept of pediatric triage allows us to improve its implementation in clinical practice, thus contributing to safer and more efficient care for the pediatric population.

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ONTARIO REGISTERED NURSES`S ASSOCIATION (RNAO) GUIDELINES THROUGH PROBLEM-BASED LEARNING

2025-01-07T08:35:31-05:00

Evidence-based practice is essential to improve quality of care, clinical safety and reduce health care costs. However, nurses are not adequately trained to apply this practice in their clinical decisions, which calls for its integration into curricula. This article
describes the implementation of five guidelines developed by the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO) in Canada through Problem-Based Learning, at the School of Nursing of the University of Talca, Chile, in the year 2024.

IMPLEMENTATION OF FOUR CLINICAL BEST PRACTICE GUIDELINES FROM THE REGISTERED NURSES' ASSOCIATION OF ONTARIO (RNAO) IN THE NURSING PROGRAM AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TALCA, CHILE

2024-12-12T11:32:03-05:00

The present article discusses the implementation of four Best Practice Guidelines (BPG) from the Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO) in a second-year disciplinary module at the School of Nursing of the University of Talca, Chile, during the year 2023, following a competency-based educational model. The BPGs implemented were: 1) Pain Assessment and management, 2) Prevention of falls and reduction of fall-related injuries, 3) Risk assessment and prevention of pressure injuries for interprofessional teams, 4) Vascular access. These guidelines served as a valuable resource for students to support care during their clinical experiences, with an average success rate of over 90% in applying the recommendations of the selected BPGs.

WORK OVERLOAD IN NURSING AND ITS CONSEQUENCES IN THE PERFORMANCE OF CARE

2025-05-14T12:10:31-04:00