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Moudatsou M, Stavropoulou A, Rovithis M, Koukouli S. Evaluation of Online Counseling through the Working Experiences of Mental Health Therapists Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:495. [PMID: 38391870 PMCID: PMC10888081 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12040495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to reflect on mental health professionals' experiences with online counseling during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as their perceptions and recommendations for the future. The method of qualitative research with semi-structured interviews was used. The sample consisted of 17 mental health professionals working in the public or private sectors. A framework analysis revealed four main themes, namely (a) the evaluation of online counseling; (b) comparing in-person and online counseling; (c) factors influencing the effectiveness of online counseling; and (d) suggestions for the future use of online counseling. Most therapists reported that their overall experience with online counseling was positive. The main advantages cited were the accessibility for everyone and the reductions in time, money, and distance. Its primary drawbacks included less nonverbal communication, the inability to employ certain therapeutic tools, problems with confidentiality, lack of experience, and technical difficulties during online sessions. Its effectiveness depends on contextual factors and factors related to the therapeutic process itself. Organizational planning, training, and a solid implementation strategy may help ensure that this communication medium is used to its fullest potential. In addition, the possible utilization of remote counseling combined with in-person psychotherapeutic intervention methods will provide solutions for the future, especially in crisis situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Moudatsou
- Department of Social Work, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, 71410 Heraklion, Greece
- Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Approaches for the Enhancement of Quality of Life (QoLab), 71410 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Areti Stavropoulou
- Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Approaches for the Enhancement of Quality of Life (QoLab), 71410 Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
- Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education, Kingston University, London KT2 7LB, UK
| | - Michael Rovithis
- Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Approaches for the Enhancement of Quality of Life (QoLab), 71410 Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Business Administration and Tourism, School of Management and Economics Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, 71410 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Sofia Koukouli
- Department of Social Work, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, 71410 Heraklion, Greece
- Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Approaches for the Enhancement of Quality of Life (QoLab), 71410 Heraklion, Greece
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Pappa D, Koutelekos I, Evangelou E, Dousis E, Mangoulia P, Gerogianni G, Zartaloudi A, Toulia G, Kelesi M, Margari N, Ferentinou E, Stavropoulou A, Dafogianni C. Investigation of Nurses' Wellbeing towards Errors in Clinical Practice-The Role of Resilience. Medicina (Kaunas) 2023; 59:1850. [PMID: 37893568 PMCID: PMC10608256 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59101850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The fatigue, stress, and burnout of nurses lead to them frequently making mistakes, which have a negative impact not only on the safety of the patients but also on their psychology. The ability to bounce back from mistakes is crucial for nurses. Nursing staff members' physical and mental health, particularly their depression, is far from ideal, and this ill health is directly correlated with the frequency of self-reported medical errors. The nurses' mental and physical health are also positively correlated with their perception of wellness support at work. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the status of nurses' mental and physical health regarding clinical errors and the impact of resilience on coping with these situations. Materials and Methods: A total of 364 healthcare professionals participated in this research; 87.5% of them were females and 12.5% of them were males. Most of the participants were 22-35 years old. The median number of years of employment was nine. Clinical nurses anonymously and voluntarily completed a special structured questionnaire that included questions from different validated tools in order to assess their state of physical and mental wellbeing after events of stress and errors made during their practice. Results: In total, 49.4% of the nurses had made an error on their own, and 73.2% had witnessed an error that someone else had made. At the time of the error, 29.9% of the participants were in charge of more than 20 patients, while 28.9% were responsible for a maximum of three patients. Participants who were 36-45 years old had more resilience (p = 0.049) and experienced fewer negative emotions than participants who were 22-35 years old. The participants who mentioned more positive feelings according to their mental state had greater resilience (p > 0.001). Conclusions: Errors were likely to happen during clinical practice due to nurses' negative experiences. The level of resilience among the nursing population was found to play a very important role not only in making mistakes but also in coping with errors during their daily routine. Wellness and prevention must be given top priority in all healthcare systems across the country in order to promote nurses' optimal health and wellbeing, raise the standard of care, and reduce the likelihood of expensive, avoidable medical errors. Healthcare administrations should promote prevention programs for stress occurrence in order to support nurses' wellbeing maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Despoina Pappa
- Department of Nursing, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | | | - Eleni Evangelou
- Department of Nursing, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelos Dousis
- Department of Nursing, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Polyxeni Mangoulia
- Department of Nursing, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 10679 Athens, Greece
| | | | | | - Georgia Toulia
- Department of Nursing, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Martha Kelesi
- Department of Nursing, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Nikoletta Margari
- Department of Nursing, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
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Sikioti T, Zartaloudi A, Pappa D, Mangoulia P, Fradelos EC, Kourti FE, Koutelekos I, Dousis E, Margari N, Stavropoulou A, Evangelou E, Dafogianni C. Stress and burnout among Greek critical care nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. AIMS Public Health 2023; 10:755-774. [PMID: 38187893 PMCID: PMC10764964 DOI: 10.3934/publichealth.2023051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Occupational stress and burnout of health personnel during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially of the nursing population in intensive care units (ICUs), were quite frequent along with negative effects and a direct correlation with the manifestation of many physical, behavioral and psychological symptoms. For the purposes of this research, a quantitative survey was carried out, in which 153 ICU nurses of secondary and tertiary public hospitals in Greece participated. Nurses completed anonymously and voluntarily a special electronic questionnaire about stress, burnout, personal concerns about the pandemic, the consequences of the outbreak and their resilience toward COVID-19 patients' care. Specific validated scales were used in this study. Female nurses felt, to a greater extent than males, work-related burnout, especially patient-related burnout and total burnout. There was a statistically significant negative relationship between the existence of a psychological support group within a hospital and personal burnout. Participants who had experience in caring for SARS-CoV-2 patients had higher mental resilience than those without experience. As the consequences experienced by the health professionals of the reference COVID-19 hospitals were increased, so did mental resilience and stress coping strategies during the pandemic. The COVID-19 outbreak and the conditions configurated in the health system had negative effects on the psycho-emotional state of ICU nurses. The manifestation of anxiety, stress and burnout had a direct correlation with both the work and personal functionality of the nurses and the whole of the healthcare services provided. The early recognition of symptoms and their individualized management are imperative for the protection of the psycho-emotional well-being of nurses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Despoina Pappa
- Faculty of Nursing, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - Polyxeni Mangoulia
- Faculty of Nursing, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Eleni Evangelou
- Faculty of Nursing, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
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Kalaitzaki A, Rovithis M, Dimitropoulos A, Koukouli S, Linardakis M, Katsiri E, Rikos N, Vasilopoulos G, Tsolas G, Papachristou A, Dimitrantzou A, Katsiris D, Stavropoulou A. Promoting Self-Management and Independent Living of Older Individuals with Chronic Diseases through Technology: A Study of Self-Reported Needs, Priorities, and Preferences. Medicina (Kaunas) 2023; 59:1493. [PMID: 37629783 PMCID: PMC10456648 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59081493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Older patients' needs are rarely examined beforehand, and thus, although technology-based tools can enhance self-management, acceptability rates are still low. This study aimed to examine and compare self-reported needs, priorities, and preferences of older patients with heart failure (HF), diabetes mellitus type II (DM2), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) toward technology use to enhance self-management. Materials and Methods: A convenience sample of 473 participants over 60 s (60.5% females), diagnosed with HF (n= 156), DM2 (n = 164), or COPD (n = 153) was recruited. They were administered a questionnaire about the usefulness of technology in general and in specific areas of disease management. Results: Most participants (84.7%) admitted that technology is needed for better disease management. This was equally recognized across the three groups both for the overall and specific areas of disease management (in order of priority: "Information", "Communication with Physicians and Caregivers", and "Quality of Life and Wellbeing"). Sociodemographic differences were found. Cell phones and PCs were the devices of preference. The four common features prioritized by all three groups were related to 'information about disease management' (i.e., monitoring symptoms, reminders for medication intake, management and prevention of complications), whereas the fifth one was related to 'communication with physicians and caregivers (i.e., in case of abnormal or critical signs). The top disease-specific feature was also monitoring systems (of respiratory rate or blood sugar or blood pressure, and oxygen), whereas other disease-specific features followed (i.e., maintaining normal weight for HF patients, adjusting insulin dose for DM2 patients, and training on breathing exercises for COPD patients). Conclusions: Older individuals in these three groups seem receptive to technology in disease management. mHealth tools, incorporating both common and disease-specific features and addressing different chronic patients, and also being personalized at the same time, could be cost-saving and useful adjuncts in routine clinical care to improve self-management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Argyroula Kalaitzaki
- Department of Social Work, School of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Gianni Kornarou, Estavromenos 1, 71410 Heraklion, Greece (S.K.)
- Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Approaches for the Enhancement of Quality of Life (QoLab), 71410 Heraklion, Greece; (N.R.); (A.S.)
| | - Michael Rovithis
- Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Approaches for the Enhancement of Quality of Life (QoLab), 71410 Heraklion, Greece; (N.R.); (A.S.)
- Department of Business Administration and Tourism, School of Management and Economics Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Gianni Kornarou, Estavromenos 1, 71410 Heraklion, Greece
| | | | - Sofia Koukouli
- Department of Social Work, School of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Gianni Kornarou, Estavromenos 1, 71410 Heraklion, Greece (S.K.)
- Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Approaches for the Enhancement of Quality of Life (QoLab), 71410 Heraklion, Greece; (N.R.); (A.S.)
| | - Manolis Linardakis
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Andrea Kalokerinou 13, Giofirakia, 71500 Heraklion, Greece;
| | - Elli Katsiri
- Innosense ΙΚΕ, 18 Esperidon Str., 13674 Athens, Greece; (E.K.); (D.K.)
| | - Nikos Rikos
- Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Approaches for the Enhancement of Quality of Life (QoLab), 71410 Heraklion, Greece; (N.R.); (A.S.)
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Gianni Kornarou, Estavromenos 1, 71410 Heraklion, Greece
| | - George Vasilopoulos
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 12243 Athens, Greece;
| | - George Tsolas
- Institute of Nursing Research and Health Policy, 73 Aristotelous Str., 10434 Athens, Greece; (G.T.); (A.P.)
| | - Aikaterini Papachristou
- Institute of Nursing Research and Health Policy, 73 Aristotelous Str., 10434 Athens, Greece; (G.T.); (A.P.)
| | | | | | - Areti Stavropoulou
- Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Approaches for the Enhancement of Quality of Life (QoLab), 71410 Heraklion, Greece; (N.R.); (A.S.)
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 12243 Athens, Greece;
- Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education, Kingston University, KT2 7LB London, UK
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Sigala E, Kelesi M, Terentes-Printzios D, Vasilopoulos G, Kapadohos T, Papageorgiou D, Tzatzou A, Vlachopoulos C, Stavropoulou A. Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients Aged 50 to 70 Years: Mechanical or Bioprosthetic Valve? A Systematic Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:1771. [PMID: 37372888 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11121771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Although transcatheter aortic valve implantation has emerged as a very attractive treatment option for severe aortic valve disease, surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) is still considered the standard-of-care, particularly in younger patients. However, selecting the appropriate type of valve prosthesis for this patient population can pose challenges. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate morbidity and mortality in patients aged 50-70 years who have undergone a first-time SAVR, and to define and compare the outcomes of mechanical valve (MV) and biological valve (BV) prosthesis. A systematic search was conducted to investigate the clinical outcomes of MVs and BVs in patients aged 50-70 years following the PRISMA guidelines. A total of 16,111 patients were included in the studies with an average follow-up of 10 years. A total of 16 studies were selected, 12 of which included propensity-score-matching (PMS) analysis and 4 of which obtained results via multivariate analysis. The vast majority (13 studies) showed no greater survival benefit in either MVs and BVs, while three studies showed an advantage of MVs over BVs. Regarding complications, bleeding was the most common adverse event in patients undergoing MV replacement, while for patients receiving BV prosthesis, it was structural valve deterioration and reoperation. Although the data suggest that the BV option could be a safe option in patients younger than 70 years, more studies with contemporary data are needed to draw firm conclusions on the risks and benefits of BV or MV in SAVR. Physicians should individualize the surgical plan based on patient characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelia Sigala
- Department of Nursing, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Martha Kelesi
- Department of Nursing, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | | | | | | | | | - Alexia Tzatzou
- Department of Nursing, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | | | - Areti Stavropoulou
- Department of Nursing, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
- Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames KT2 7LB, UK
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Marinaki C, Kapadochos T, Katsoulas T, Rubbi I, Liveri A, Stavropoulou A, Bonacaro A, Papageorgiou D. Estimation of the optimal time needed for weaning of Intensive Care Unit tracheostomized patients on mechanical ventilation. A prospective observational study. Acta Biomed 2023; 94:e2023103. [PMID: 37092617 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v94i2.14243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Determining the time that is required for weaning, as well as the factors that influence it can be used for the appropriate planning of patient's medical and nursing care. The aim of this study is to estimate the optimal time an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patient with tracheostomy needs to wean from mechanical ventilation. METHODS This prospective observational study was conducted on 162 patients from two general hospitals in Athens, Greece. A specially designed recording form was created to conduct the study. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) v.25 for Windows was used to record and analyze the data. The level of statistical significance was set at α=5%. RESULTS Results were found after comparing and associating the demographic and clinical characteristics and medical history of patients with the duration of weaning, the length of post-tracheostomy ICU stay and the time from intubation to tracheostomy. CONCLUSIONS According to the results of our study, there are various factors that affect success and duration of weaning. More specifically, there seems to be an association between duration of weaning and age, number of closure attempts, success of closure, time from intubation to tracheostomy, length of the patient's post-tracheostomy ICU stay and diagnosis upon admission. The shorter the duration of weaning, the greater the benefits for the patients themselves, such us avoiding respiratory damage, reduction of mortality and morbidity and preventing of length of patient's ICU stay.
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Moudatsou M, Stavropoulou A, Rovithis M, Koukouli S. Views and Challenges of COVID-19 Vaccination in the Primary Health Care Sector. A Qualitative Study. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11040803. [PMID: 37112715 PMCID: PMC10145246 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11040803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 has affected the global community as it has severely raised population mortality and morbidity rates. Vaccination was seen as a mechanism against the spread of the pandemic. Yet, there are still several reservations about its adoption. Professionals in the field of health care have a crucial frontline role. The present study uses a qualitative research approach to examine Greek health professionals' views on vaccination acceptance. According to the key findings, health professionals largely accept vaccination. The main reasons cited were scientific knowledge, a sense of obligation to society, and protection from disease. However, there are still numerous restrictions to adhering to it. This is due to the lack of knowledge of certain scientific disciplines or to misinformation, as well as to religious or political convictions. The issue of trust is central to the acceptance of vaccinations. According to our research, the most adequate strategy to enhance immunization and ensure that it is widely accepted is to promote health educational interventions for professionals working in primary care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Moudatsou
- Social Work Department, School of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece
- Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Approaches for the Enhancement of Quality of Life, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece
- Institute of Agri-Food and Life Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Areti Stavropoulou
- Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Approaches for the Enhancement of Quality of Life, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece
- Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, GR-12243 Athens, Greece
- Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames KT1 1LQ, Surrey, UK
| | - Michael Rovithis
- Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Approaches for the Enhancement of Quality of Life, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece
- Institute of Agri-Food and Life Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Business Administration & Tourism, School of Economics and Management Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Sofia Koukouli
- Social Work Department, School of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece
- Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Approaches for the Enhancement of Quality of Life, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece
- Institute of Agri-Food and Life Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece
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Roussou E, Fasoi G, Stavropoulou A, Kelesi M, Vasilopoulos G, Gerogianni G, Alikari V. Quality of life of patients with pressure ulcers: a systematic review. Med Pharm Rep 2023; 96:123-130. [PMID: 37197280 PMCID: PMC10184534 DOI: 10.15386/mpr-2531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction. Patients suffering from pressure ulcers experience low quality of life, in every dimension of daily living.
Aim. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the impact of pressure ulcers on the patients’ quality of life involving mental/emotional, spiritual, physical, social, cognitive dimensions, and pain.
Methods. A systematic literature search of published articles in the English language during the past 15 years was conducted. Articles were identified in the electronic databases of Google Scholar, PubMed, and PsycINFO using the keywords: pressure ulcers, quality of life, emotional dimension, social dimension, physical dimension. The inclusion criteria were: articles relevant to the study topic, written in English, and published between 2004 and 2019. Articles that were secondary studies, such as reviews and meta-analyses, case studies, and articles written in a language other than English, were excluded from the study. The PRISMA method was applied.
Results. Fourteen studies were included in this systematic review. Eight were quantitative studies (six cross-sectional, one longitudinal, one multicenter cohort, and one pilot study) and six qualitative (one was based on grounded theory, one pilot study, one case study of mixed methods, one phenomenological study, and one comparative study). The emerging themes were related to the mental/emotional, spiritual, physical, social, cognitive dimensions, and pain.
Conclusions. Pressure ulcers have a negative impact on the patients’ quality of life, especially at a psychological level. Patients’ life is severely affected as they are fully dependent on their supportive environment and health services.
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Stavropoulou A, Prasianaki M, Papageorgiou D, Kaba E, Misouridou E, Dafogianni C, Gerogianni G, Kelesi M. The Psychological and Professional Burden Experienced by Nurses Who Worked in COVID-19 Clinics during the Pandemic: A Content Analysis. Clin Pract 2023; 13:422-434. [PMID: 36961063 PMCID: PMC10037639 DOI: 10.3390/clinpract13020038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Since the beginning of the pandemic, nurses have played a key role in providing care for COVID-19 patients. Infection risk and fear, use of personal protective equipment, and social isolation were related to high levels of stress and extreme psychological drain among front-line healthcare providers. AIM The aim of this study was to explore how front-line nurses experienced psychological and professional burdens during the coronavirus outbreak. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study used a qualitative research design. Semi-structured interviews were applied as the method of data collection. Ten nurses from COVID-19 wards and units of two general public hospitals participated in the study. A content analysis approach was employed to analyze the data. RESULTS Data analysis revealed two main categories, namely: (A) front-line experience "From fear to empowerment", and (B) caring and management "From powerlessness to adaptation". Eight sub-categories were developed and included within the corresponding main categories. The study's findings demonstrated that the pandemic caused significant psychological and professional strain on front-line nurses, with feelings of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty predominating. Nonetheless, the process of adaptation and adjustment brought about sentiments of self-actualization and empowerment. CONCLUSIONS A thorough understanding of the psychological and professional burden experienced by the front-line nurses is crucial to ensure that nurses receive appropriate support and that quality care is sustained under highly demanding healthcare conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areti Stavropoulou
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Prasianaki
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Papageorgiou
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece
| | - Evridiki Kaba
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece
| | - Evdokia Misouridou
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece
| | - Chrysoula Dafogianni
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia Gerogianni
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece
| | - Martha Kelesi
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece
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Dafogianni C, Pappa D, Mangoulia P, Kourti FE, Koutelekos I, Dousis E, Margari N, Ferentinou E, Stavropoulou A, Gerogianni G, Fradelos E, Zartaloudi A. Anxiety, Stress and the Resilience of University Students during the First Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10122573. [PMID: 36554097 PMCID: PMC9778423 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10122573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on everyone’s daily lives with short-term or long-term consequences. Among the affected population, university students were studied by researchers specifically due to the total change to their educational way of learning and the courses they attended. The present study aimed to assess the psychological difficulties experienced by the university students of Greece during the first wave of the outbreak. Methods: 288 university nursing students completed an electronic questionnaire after consent. The sample included students from all years of study. The questionnaire included demographic data and questions about mental health status, resilience level, coping strategies, positive and negative emotions and an optimism assessment. Results: Depression (44.8%), anxiety (36.8%) and stress (40.3%) were experienced by the students. Females had significantly greater anxiety and stress signs compared to males (p < 0.001). The resilience score was significantly greater in males, as it was for the Positive Affect Score. Students in the fourth year of study used significantly more active/positive coping strategies than students in the first (p = 0.016) or second year of study (p = 0.005). Conclusion: Several students experienced serious mental disorders during the first period of the COVID-19 outbreak. Variables such as gender, year of study, age, positive and negative affect score, life orientation test score and coping strategies were identified as factors contributing to this situation. Special attention must be paid to female students as they mentioned negative emotions more frequently than males. Further research on the academic population could be beneficial to university administrators.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Despoina Pappa
- Department of Nursing, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence:
| | - Polyxeni Mangoulia
- Department of Nursing, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 10679 Athens, Greece
| | | | | | - Evangelos Dousis
- Department of Nursing, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Nikoletta Margari
- Department of Nursing, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | | | | | | | - Evangelos Fradelos
- Faculty of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece
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Stavropoulou A, Rovithis M, Kelesi M, Vasilopoulos G, Sigala E, Papageorgiou D, Moudatsou M, Koukouli S. What Quality of Care Means? Exploring Clinical Nurses’ Perceptions on the Concept of Quality Care: A Qualitative Study. Clin Pract 2022; 12:468-481. [PMID: 35892437 PMCID: PMC9326653 DOI: 10.3390/clinpract12040051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Quality is a multidimensional issue involving various features that depend on service performance and personal assessment. Clarifying the concept of quality is essential in order to further facilitate the understanding and improvement of quality in healthcare. The purpose of this study was to investigate how clinical nurses, providing care to adult medical patients, perceive and define the concept of quality nursing care. A descriptive qualitative research design was applied. A purposive sampling strategy was used to recruit nurses from the clinical sector of a general public hospital in Athens, Greece. Ten female nurses from the medical sector participated the study. Data collection was conducted through in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Conventional content analysis was used to analyze the verbatim data. Four categories were revealed from the data analysis, namely: (a) “Quality care is holistic care”, (b) “Good care is an interpersonal issue”, (c) “Leadership is crucial”, and (d) “Best care is our responsibility”. Quality care was defined as holistic care, addressing all patient needs with competency and aiming for the best patient outcomes. It was associated with communication, teamwork, good leadership, and personal commitment. By developing an in-depth and mutual understanding about what quality means, nurse leaders and practitioners may collaborate in finding common paths to support quality interventions and enhance quality nursing care in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areti Stavropoulou
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece; (M.K.); (G.V.); (E.S.); (D.P.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Michael Rovithis
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Gianni Kornarou, Estavromenos 1, 714 10 Heraklion, Greece;
| | - Martha Kelesi
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece; (M.K.); (G.V.); (E.S.); (D.P.)
| | - George Vasilopoulos
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece; (M.K.); (G.V.); (E.S.); (D.P.)
| | - Evangelia Sigala
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece; (M.K.); (G.V.); (E.S.); (D.P.)
| | - Dimitrios Papageorgiou
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece; (M.K.); (G.V.); (E.S.); (D.P.)
| | - Maria Moudatsou
- Department of Social Work, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Gianni Kornarou, Estavromenos 1, 714 10 Heraklion, Greece; (M.M.); (S.K.)
| | - Sofia Koukouli
- Department of Social Work, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Gianni Kornarou, Estavromenos 1, 714 10 Heraklion, Greece; (M.M.); (S.K.)
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Moudatsou M, Vouyiouka P, Karagianni-Hatziskou E, Rovithis M, Stavropoulou A, Koukouli S. Knowledge and Use of Cervical Cancer Prevention Services among Social Work and Nursing University Students. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10061140. [PMID: 35742191 PMCID: PMC9222924 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10061140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study examines: (a) the knowledge of healthcare students on cervical cancer (CC) issues and the use of related preventive services, as well as their association with the field of study and other sociodemographic characteristics; (b) the possible effect of social capital and its parameters. A cross-sectional study was conducted, using a convenience non-probability sampling technique. The final sample consisted of forty-nine social work and fifty-one nursing students. The two groups were similar regarding their sociodemographic characteristics and the knowledge and use of gynecological preventive services. However, the nursing students undertook a PAP smear check-up to a lesser extent (48.6%) compared to social work students (51.4%) (p = 0.026). The social capital scores were high for both groups, but social work students were significantly more ‘Tolerant to diversity’. For the total sample, only the ‘Family and friends connections’ subscale correlated with knowledge about the existing gynecological preventive services. Among the main reasons explaining university students’ avoidance of preventive testing were the feelings of fear and embarrassment associated with the PAP smear test. Given the significance of the future professional roles of healthcare students as information sources and leaders in women’s CC preventive behavior, understanding the individual factors contributing to their own adherence is essential. It is equally important to increase their scientific knowledge through the improvement of academic curricula regarding these issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Moudatsou
- Social Work Department, School of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece; (P.V.); (E.K.-H.); (S.K.)
- Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Approaches for the Enhancement of Quality of Life, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece; (M.R.); (A.S.)
- Institute of Agri-Food and Life Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University Research Centre, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-6938980463
| | - Panayiota Vouyiouka
- Social Work Department, School of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece; (P.V.); (E.K.-H.); (S.K.)
| | - Eleni Karagianni-Hatziskou
- Social Work Department, School of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece; (P.V.); (E.K.-H.); (S.K.)
| | - Michael Rovithis
- Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Approaches for the Enhancement of Quality of Life, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece; (M.R.); (A.S.)
- Institute of Agri-Food and Life Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University Research Centre, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece
- Nursing Department, School of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Areti Stavropoulou
- Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Approaches for the Enhancement of Quality of Life, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece; (M.R.); (A.S.)
- Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, GR-12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Sofia Koukouli
- Social Work Department, School of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece; (P.V.); (E.K.-H.); (S.K.)
- Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Approaches for the Enhancement of Quality of Life, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece; (M.R.); (A.S.)
- Institute of Agri-Food and Life Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University Research Centre, Hellenic Mediterranean University, GR-71410 Heraklion, Greece
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Bonacaro A, Stroumpouki T, Stavropoulou A, Triglia C, Vizilio E, Papageorgiou D, Rubbi I. Nursing students' attitudes on caring for people living with HIV/AIDS. A European Multicentre Study. Acta Biomed 2022; 93:e2022191. [PMID: 35545975 PMCID: PMC9534215 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v93is2.12999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Caring for people with HIV/AIDS is a challenging issue for nursing students, involving sometimes misconceptions due to different cultural, political and religious views. The aim of this project was to investigate nursing students' attitudes on caring for people with HIV/AIDS. METHODS A convenient sample of undergraduate nursing students enrolled in four European universities was recruited. Data were collected by administering the AIDS Attitude Scale (AAS). Statistical analysis included the ANOVA test, the t-test for independent variables, and the Kruskal-Wallis test with a confidence level P <0.05. RESULTS The sample consisted of 594 students of which 162 (27.3%) were English, 246 (41.4%) Italian and 186 (31.3%) Greek. Study findings demonstrated that students' attitudes toward HIV/AIDS patients were relatively positive, although the majority of them indicated fear of contracting HIV through clinical practice. Nursing students' positive feelings for HIV/AIDS patients were also correlated with the strong willingness to take care of them. CONCLUSIONS Despite being exposed to different teaching and learning experiences, a significant part of the participants believe that HIV/AIDS make nursing a high-risk profession. Furthermore, students' misconceptions are not limited to clinical practice areas as they expressed concerns in sending their children in a class along with a child affected by AIDS and/or in dining in a restaurant where a chef affected by AIDS works. Students are in general well-disposed towards this patients' population but there is still stigma associated with this condition. A new teaching and learning approach may help redefining students' attitudes and in limiting the negative impact of misconceptions on the quality of nursing care. Further investigation in this area would help in shading light on the reasons why students are still biased in approaching AIDS/HIV patients. The use of a qualitative approach based on semi-structured interviews and/or focus group would be recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ivan Rubbi
- Department of Nursing, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Marinaki C, Kapadochos T, Katsoulas T, Rubbi I, Liveri A, Stavropoulou A, Bonacaro A, Papageorgiou D. Early versus Late Tracheostomy Promotes Weaning in Intensive Care Unit Patients: a retrospective observational study. Acta Biomed 2022; 93:e2022152. [PMID: 35545976 PMCID: PMC9534218 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v93is2.12998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The time interval between the patients' intubation and the performance of a tracheostomy has been considered as critical for the disease prognosis and outcome. The aim of the present study was to compare and contrast the outcomes of early vs late tracheostomy with regard to ICU patients' weaning from respiratory support. METHODS This retrospective observational study, involved patients who were hospitalized in two general and one Covid-19 ICUs of two tertiary hospitals in Athens and were subjected to tracheostomy. Data were collected from the patients' medical records in order to estimate the duration of patient weaning and the number of days from the patients' intubation until the time of tracheostomy. In the present study the term earlytracheostomy denotes tracheostomy performed within 14 days from patient intubation and late tracheostomydefines the tracheostomy carried out after 14 days. For Covid-19 patients, guidelines suggested that tracheostomies should be performed 21 days following intubation, due to the high risk of virus transmission. RESULTS One hundred and thirty-one patients who underwent tracheostomy participated in the study. Most tracheostomies were performed using the percutaneous technique. The group of patients tracheostomized within 14 days after their admission in ICU weaned faster from respiratory support compared to ones who were tracheostomized after 14 days. CONCLUSIONS The most common distinction between early and late tracheostomy is 14 days, with early tracheostomy being more beneficial in terms of patients' outcomes, and specifically ICU patients' weaning.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Theodoros Katsoulas
- Department of Nursing, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Ivan Rubbi
- Contracted Lecturer, School of Nursing, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - Athanasia Liveri
- Department of Statistics and Insurance Science, University of Piraeus, Greece
| | | | - Antonio Bonacaro
- School of Health and Sports Sciences, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom
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Stavropoulou A, Szmul A, Chandy E, Veiga C, Landau D, McClelland JR. A multichannel feature-based approach for longitudinal lung CT registration in the presence of radiation induced lung damage. Phys Med Biol 2021; 66:175020. [PMID: 34352743 PMCID: PMC8395598 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/ac1b1d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Quantifying parenchymal tissue changes in the lungs is imperative in furthering the study of radiation induced lung damage (RILD). Registering lung images from different time-points is a key step of this process. Traditional intensity-based registration approaches fail this task due to the considerable anatomical changes that occur between timepoints. This work proposes a novel method to successfully register longitudinal pre- and post-radiotherapy (RT) lung computed tomography (CT) scans that exhibit large changes due to RILD, by extracting consistent anatomical features from CT (lung boundaries, main airways, vessels) and using these features to optimise the registrations. Pre-RT and 12 month post-RT CT pairs from fifteen lung cancer patients were used for this study, all with varying degrees of RILD, ranging from mild parenchymal change to extensive consolidation and collapse. For each CT, signed distance transforms from segmentations of the lungs and main airways were generated, and the Frangi vesselness map was calculated. These were concatenated into multi-channel images and diffeomorphic multichannel registration was performed for each image pair using NiftyReg. Traditional intensity-based registrations were also performed for comparison purposes. For the evaluation, the pre- and post-registration landmark distance was calculated for all patients, using an average of 44 manually identified landmark pairs per patient. The mean (standard deviation) distance for all datasets decreased from 15.95 (8.09) mm pre-registration to 4.56 (5.70) mm post-registration, compared to 7.90 (8.97) mm for the intensity-based registrations. Qualitative improvements in image alignment were observed for all patient datasets. For four representative subjects, registrations were performed for three additional follow-up timepoints up to 48 months post-RT and similar accuracy was achieved. We have demonstrated that our novel multichannel registration method can successfully align longitudinal scans from RILD patients in the presence of large anatomical changes such as consolidation and atelectasis, outperforming the traditional registration approach both quantitatively and through thorough visual inspection.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Stavropoulou
- Centre for Medical Image Computing, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, United Kingdom
| | - A Szmul
- Centre for Medical Image Computing, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, United Kingdom
| | - E Chandy
- Centre for Medical Image Computing, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, United Kingdom
- University College Hospital London, United Kingdom
| | - C Veiga
- Centre for Medical Image Computing, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, United Kingdom
| | - D Landau
- University College Hospital London, United Kingdom
| | - J R McClelland
- Centre for Medical Image Computing, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, United Kingdom
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Stavropoulou A, Vlamakis D, Kaba E, Kalemikerakis I, Polikandrioti M, Fasoi G, Vasilopoulos G, Kelesi M. "Living with a Stoma": Exploring the Lived Experience of Patients with Permanent Colostomy. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:ijerph18168512. [PMID: 34444262 PMCID: PMC8393572 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18168512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Living with a permanent colostomy brings severe changes in patients’ lives. The general health status as well as the personal, social and professional life of patients are significantly affected. Aim: The aim of the present study was to investigate the lived experience of patients undergoing permanent colostomy. Material and Methods: A qualitative research design based on interpretive phenomenology was carried out. Semi-structured interviews were conducted as the data collection method to obtain in-depth information regarding the research topic. The study sample consisted of eight (8) patients who had undergone a permanent colostomy. The data analysis was performed by the method of content analysis. Results: From the analysis of the data, three main themes emerged, namely: (A) Experiencing a traumatic event; (B) Living a new reality; (C) Efforts to improve quality of life. Five subthemes were formulated which were encompassed within the respective main themes accordingly. Conclusion: Patients with permanent colostomy face significant life changes that are experienced in a traumatic way. Issues such as autonomy, family and organizational support, self-management and empowerment can significantly improve the patients’ quality of life. Further research, regarding caregivers’ experience, improved community nursing care as well as nurses’ views on the needs of colostomy patients and their families, is suggested.
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Rovithis M, Koukouli S, Fouskis A, Giannakaki I, Giakoumaki K, Linardakis M, Moudatsou M, Stavropoulou A. Empathy and Mobile Phone Dependence in Nursing: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Public Hospital of the Island of Crete, Greece. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9080975. [PMID: 34442112 PMCID: PMC8393332 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9080975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examined the relationship between empathy and mobile phone dependence levels of the nursing staff in a public hospital in the island of Crete, using a cross-sectional study design. Data from 109 staff nurses and healthcare assistants (HCAs) were collected via the Greek version of the Mobile Phone Dependence Questionnaire (MPDQ) and the Toronto Empathy Questionnaire (TEQ). Multiple linear regression was used to determine the correlation between empathy and mobile phone dependency. The total mean score for TEQ was 33.9 (±5.7). Accordingly, the total mean score for MPDQ was 22.9 (±6.1). High mobile phone dependence was found in 4.7% of the participants. A statistically significant difference was found between HCAs and staff nurses, with HCAs presenting a higher mean empathy levels (TEQ) (36.5 vs. 32.6) and lower dependence levels (MPDQ) (18.9 vs. 24.5) than staff nurses. A significant correlation between empathy and dependence was found between dependence and the altruism empathy subscale, with higher dependence being correlated with lower altruism. The participants’ levels of empathy do not seem to be affected by mobile phone dependence. However, empathy appears to be strongly determined by increased age and professional status. Nurses’ dependence on mobile phones is a complex phenomenon that requires attention. Educational programs on empathy and information on the proper use of mobile phones by the nursing staff should be provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Rovithis
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Gianni Kornarou, Estavromenos 1, 714 10 Heraklion, Greece; (M.R.); (A.F.); (I.G.); (K.G.)
| | - Sofia Koukouli
- Department of Social Work, School of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Gianni Kornarou, Estavromenos 1, 714 10 Heraklion, Greece;
- Correspondence:
| | - Aristidis Fouskis
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Gianni Kornarou, Estavromenos 1, 714 10 Heraklion, Greece; (M.R.); (A.F.); (I.G.); (K.G.)
| | - Ioulia Giannakaki
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Gianni Kornarou, Estavromenos 1, 714 10 Heraklion, Greece; (M.R.); (A.F.); (I.G.); (K.G.)
| | - Kleanthi Giakoumaki
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Gianni Kornarou, Estavromenos 1, 714 10 Heraklion, Greece; (M.R.); (A.F.); (I.G.); (K.G.)
| | - Manolis Linardakis
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Andrea Kalokerinou 13, Giofirakia, 715 00 Heraklion, Greece;
| | - Maria Moudatsou
- Department of Social Work, School of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Gianni Kornarou, Estavromenos 1, 714 10 Heraklion, Greece;
| | - Areti Stavropoulou
- Department of Nursing, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece;
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Kaba E, Stavropoulou A, Kelesi M, Triantafyllou A, Goula A, Fasoi G. Ten Key Steps to Writing a Protocol for a Qualitative Research Study: A Guide for Nurses and Health Professionals. Glob J Health Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.5539/gjhs.v13n6p58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Writing a well-structured research protocol is a critical component of any research activity. It is a demanding task that requires rigor and strenuous effort especially for the novice researchers in all disciplines. The aims of the present paper are a) to demonstrate the key steps required towriting a protocol for a qualitative research study b) to assist nurses and other health professionals in effectively developing protocols on qualitative research. For this purpose, an example qualitative research protocol was used entitled “Investigating nurses’ views on care of mentally ill patients with skin injuries”. This protocol was chosen because it provides a reasonable model of proposing a qualitative research design within the field of nursing. Results of this process led to the development of a 10 key-step guide to writing a protocol for a qualitative research study. A thorough analysis of how each step of the protocol must be undertaken and accomplished is presented and supported by the relevant literature. This paper provides an informative guide for novice researchers and/or nurse students, on how to develop successful protocols on qualitative research studies that guide research and decision making in naturalistic settings.
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Fasoi G, Patsiou EC, Stavropoulou A, Kaba E, Papageorgiou D, Toylia G, Goula A, Kelesi M. Assessment of Nursing Workload as a Mortality Predictor in Intensive Care Units (ICU) Using the Nursing Activities Score (NAS) Scale. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 18:ijerph18010079. [PMID: 33374244 PMCID: PMC7795444 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18010079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Nursing activities score scales are valuable instruments for assessing the quality of nursing care provided in critically ill patients and easy to use in validating nurse staffing. The aim of this study was the assessment of nursing workload (NW) as a predictive factor of mortality by using the nursing activities score (NAS) scale. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study of 91 days during 2019, convenience sampling was employed to recruit 82 registered nurses (RN) from three intensive care units (ICUs) of two public hospitals with 41 beds in total. Data were collected using the NAS scale, the researcher’s observation, the information given by the staff, and the nursing care reports. Descriptive and inductive statistics were used with significance level α = 0.05. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 25.0) was used for analyzing the data. Results: Females were the majority of the sample (84.1%), with a mean age of 38.9 (7.7) years, 87.8% had a nursing degree from a technological educational institute (T.E.I), the average working experience was 14 (8.1) years and the ICU experience was 12.9 (8.5) years. There were 3764 daily records of NAS with an average of 54.81 (2.34) and total NAS of 756.51 (150.27). The NW of the first day’s admission in the ICU was 65.15 (13.05), NW was 13.15 h/day and the NW of patients who died was 57.37 (4.06). The optimal nurse/patient ratio (NPR) was 1:1.82, while the existing NPR was 1:2.86. The mortality rate was 28.7%. Conclusion: Although the study results did not demonstrate a significant correlation between NW and mortality, the NW in ICU appeared to be relatively higher for patients who died than for those who survived. This result may serve as an indication for a positive correlation between these two variables. In addition, NW was found to be moderate, while one ICU nurse can take care of more than one patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Fasoi
- Department of Nursing, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece; (G.F.); (A.S.); (D.P.); (G.T.); (M.K.)
| | - Eirini C. Patsiou
- Intensive Care Unit, General Hospital Korgialenio-Benakio E.E.S, 11526 Athens, Greece;
| | - Areti Stavropoulou
- Department of Nursing, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece; (G.F.); (A.S.); (D.P.); (G.T.); (M.K.)
| | - Evridiki Kaba
- Department of Nursing, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece; (G.F.); (A.S.); (D.P.); (G.T.); (M.K.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Dimitrios Papageorgiou
- Department of Nursing, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece; (G.F.); (A.S.); (D.P.); (G.T.); (M.K.)
| | - Georgia Toylia
- Department of Nursing, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece; (G.F.); (A.S.); (D.P.); (G.T.); (M.K.)
| | - Aspasia Goula
- Department of Business Administration, School of Administrative, Economics and Social Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece;
| | - Martha Kelesi
- Department of Nursing, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece; (G.F.); (A.S.); (D.P.); (G.T.); (M.K.)
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Kaba E, Triantafyllou A, Fasoi G, Kelesi M, Stavropoulou A. Investigating Nurses' Views on Care of Mentally Ill Patients with Skin Injuries. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 17:ijerph17207610. [PMID: 33086753 PMCID: PMC7589511 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17207610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: Individuals with mental illness are at increased risk of skin injuries. The role of nurses in skin injury prevention and management is crucial and therefore their views on wound care may provide useful information for improving the quality of the care provided. Aim: To investigate nurses’ views on care of mentally ill patients with skin injuries. Method: A qualitative research design based on the principles of grounded theory approach was followed. Unstructured interviews were conducted with seven nurses working in psychiatric wards with frequent skin injuries. Data were analyzed using the constant comparative method of analysis. Results: Two main themes were emerged from data analysis. The first main theme, namely factors affecting the care of patients with skin injuries, included seven categories: (a) shortage of hospital supplies, equipment and services (b) staff shortages, (c) lack of knowledge, (d) nurses’ resistance to change, (e) difficulty in collaborating with patients, (f) patients’ physical conditions and (g) nurses’ attitudes as an obstacle to care. The second main theme, namely nurses’ suggestions for optimizing care, included five categories: (a) need for additional staff, (b) need for increasing hospital supplies and equipment availability, (c) need for training (d) need of changing nurses’ attitudes towards care and (e) need of changing the patients’ approach to collaboration. Conclusion: The care of mentally ill patients with skin injuries is affected by multidimensional factors that have a direct impact on the quality of nurses’ work and patients’ hospitalization. Specific efforts are needed to overcome the obstacles that hinder the care provided and to improve clinical practice.
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Stroumpouki T, Perrett S, Kasdovasilis P, Papatheodorou P, Paparizos V, Stavropoulou A. "A journey towards acceptance": The process of adapting to life with HIV in Greece. A Qualitative study. Appl Nurs Res 2020; 53:151249. [PMID: 32451004 DOI: 10.1016/j.apnr.2020.151249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Aim To identify the experiences related to adaptation for people living with HIV in Greece and to explore different adaptation stages as well as their individual reactions. BACKGROUND Receiving an HIV positive diagnosis leads to major changes in an individual's life and it can trigger an array of emotions including fear, despair and loss of control. As the profile of the disease has changed due to its transition into a chronic disease and extended life expectancy, adaptation to life and coping with uncertain events is of paramount importance. METHOD Interpretative phenomenological research design was used to guide data collection and analysis. A purposive sampling technique was used. Ethical procedures were taken into account and nine individuals who were diagnosed with HIV took part in the study using semi-structured interviews. RESULTS Data analysis revealed the different stages of adaptation that the participants experienced after an HIV positive diagnosis. A superordinate theme identified as 'a journey towards acceptance' while five subthemes were formed, namely, 'Communicating the bad news, Conscious loneliness, Getting information, Receiving Support, and Moving on with hope'. CONCLUSION An HIV positive diagnosis can affect the very core of the individual as the essence of -self- is targeted and in need of reform. Education, empathy, family and social support can help the individual make small steps towards a greater journey, that of acceptance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodora Stroumpouki
- Acute Adult Nursing, Faculty of Health, Social Care and Education, Kingston University and St George's, University of London, Kingston Hill Campus, Kingston upon Thames KT2 7LB, United Kingdom.
| | - Stephanie Perrett
- Health and Justice, Health Protection Team, Public Health Wales, 4th Floor, Number 2 Capital Quarter, Tyndall Way, Cardiff CF10 4BZ, United Kingdom.
| | - Pavlos Kasdovasilis
- Health Psychology, Business Improvement and Research Manager, Rehability UK, 25 Hatton Place, 118 Midland Rd, Luton, LU2 0FB, United Kingdom
| | | | - Vasilios Paparizos
- HIV/AIDS Unit, 'A. Syggros' Hospital, 5 I. Dragoumi Str., Kessariani 161 21, Athens, Greece
| | - Areti Stavropoulou
- Department of Nursing, University of West Attica, Ag. Spiridonos 28, 12243 Aegaleo, Greece.
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Stavropoulou A, Rovithis M, Sigala E, Pantou S, Koukouli S. Greek nurses' perceptions on empathy and empathic care in the Intensive Care Unit. Intensive Crit Care Nurs 2020; 58:102814. [PMID: 32089417 DOI: 10.1016/j.iccn.2020.102814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Empathy is a fundamental component of nursing practice impacting positively on the therapeutic process. Understanding the concepts of empathy and empathic care in the context of Intensive Care Units is essential for providing better care in high challenging environments. However, research on empathy in the ICU is scarce and mostly quantitative. OBJECTIVES To explore how ICU nurses perceive the concepts of empathy and empathic care. DESIGN AND SETTING A descriptive qualitative research design was applied using an inductive content analysis approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nineteen ICU nurses in two hospitals in Greece. FINDINGS Data analysis revealed three main themes namely: "To become one of them", "Empathic Care" and "Integration of empathic care in practice". Findings corroborated the affective, cognitive and behavioral components of empathy. Nurses underlined that understaffing, increased workload and professional burnout impeded empathic care. CONCLUSION Empathy and empathic care in the ICU were perceived as closely related to patients' outcomes and quality care. Empathic care was arduous due to organisational issues. Despite that, ICU nurses appeared to promote empathic care in practice and sought ways to enhance it.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Rovithis
- Department of Nursing & Quality of Life Lab, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Heraklion, Greece
| | | | | | - Sofia Koukouli
- Department of Social Work & Quality of Life Lab, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Heraklion, Greece.
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Stavropoulou A, Rovithis M, Grammatikopoulou MG, Kyriakidi K, Pylarinou A, Markaki AG. Exploring Patients' Experiences After Chronic Kidney Disease Diagnosis: A Qualitative Study. Nephrol Nurs J 2020. [DOI: 10.37526/1526-744x.2020.47.1.67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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Stavropoulou A, Rovithis M, Grammatikopoulou MG, Kyriakidi K, Pylarinou A, Markaki AG. Exploring Patients' Experiences After Chronic Kidney Disease Diagnosis: A Qualitative Study. Nephrol Nurs J 2020. [DOI: 10.37526/1526-744x.2020.41.1.67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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Stavropoulou A, Rovithis M, Grammatikopoulou MG, Kyriakidi K, Pylarinou A, Markaki AG. Exploring Patients' Experiences After Chronic Kidney Disease Diagnosis: A Qualitative Study. Nephrol Nurs J 2020; 47:67-98. [PMID: 32083438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) diagnosis is often associated with stress, depression, and major lifestyle changes. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore patients' experiences of living with CKD. A non-random purposeful sampling strategy was used to recruit 10 patients with CKD undergoing hemodialysis, from a tertiary care hospital in Crete, Greece. Semi-structured, face-to-face interviews were conducted with open-ended questions aiming to assess different aspects of their life after CKD diagnosis. Four main themes were revealed portraying participants' experience, including facing a new reality, 2) confronting changes, 3) finding ways to cope, and 4) continuing life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areti Stavropoulou
- Lecturer in Nursing Management and Education, Department of Nursing, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - Michael Rovithis
- Assistant Professor, Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Approaches for the Enhancement of Quality of Life, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Maria G Grammatikopoulou
- Senior Lecturer, Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, International Hellenic University, Alexander Campus, Sindos,Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantina Kyriakidi
- Graduate Student, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Sitia, Greece
| | - Andriani Pylarinou
- Graduate Student, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Sitia, Greece
| | - Anastasia G Markaki
- Assistant Professor in Clinical Nutrition, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Sitia, Greece
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Papadopoulou E, Kamba E, Stavropoulou A, Kelesi M. Looking into the nurses’ views regarding implementation of Evidence-Based Nursing in clinical practice. HJNS 2019. [DOI: 10.24283/hjns.2019.3.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Although there are plenty of guidelines and protocols for clinical practice, the implementation, by healthcare professionals, of evidence-based practice (EBP) is not quite widespread in clinical practice. Evidence-based practice is related with improved patient outcomes and cost-effective care.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the nurses’s views regarding the implementation of EBP in clinical practice.
Methods: This is a systematic review. The literature review was conducted in Pubmed database with specific key-words and it consisted of last five years publications in English or Greek language. Initially 417 articles were found, of which ten, full text, clinical and multicentered studies, meta-analysis and comparison studies were finally selected.
Results: Almost half of the nurses knew about EBP, had a positive attitude, and were keen to increasing their knowledge to follow the new trends in clinical practice. Nurses are less familiar with EBP, but argued that it is useful in clinical practice eventhough they lack the knowledge to implement it. Although most nurses knew what EBP was, they were less confident about their own knowledge and skills required. EBP needing advanced scientific knowledge and skills have been less frequently implemented. Lack of time, lack of skills required to search for information, processing and implementation of information, lack of administrative support and the lack of recognition of nursing profession were found to be the main obstacles in applying EBP in clinical practice. Younger nurses, those with a higher level of education, who held an administrative position and a full-time job had stronger views regarding the extent to which clinical nursing practice can be based on EBP.
Conclusions: All nurses need to be properly educated and trained in order to be able to evaluate research and apply evidence-based changes in clinical practice. The introduction of evidence-based practice into nursing curricula, as well as its systematic integration into everyday clinical practice, will greatly enhance nurses' conviction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Evridiki Kamba
- Assistant professor, Faculty of Nursing, West Attica University
| | | | - Martha Kelesi
- Professor, Faculty of Nursing, West Attica University
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Koukouli S, Lambraki M, Sigala E, Alevizaki A, Stavropoulou A. The experience of Greek families of critically ill patients: Exploring their needs and coping strategies. Intensive Crit Care Nurs 2017; 45:44-51. [PMID: 29291921 DOI: 10.1016/j.iccn.2017.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2017] [Revised: 10/21/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore the experiences, needs and coping strategies of families of patients admitted to adult intensive care units. DESIGN AND SETTING A descriptive qualitative research design was chosen using an inductive thematic content analysis approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted withfourteen family members in three hospitals of Crete. FINDINGS Four main themes were derived from data analysis. Our results showed that family members were in turmoil having to deal with intense and alternating feelings. The protection of patient's dignity and well-being was of utmost importance mainly by maintaining proximity. Getting comprehensible information and building communication with the healthcare providers was often problematic. Three coping strategies were used: optimism, family support and spirituality. CONCLUSION This study is a contribution to the understanding of Greek family's experiences and psychosocial needs during critical illness. A family-inclusive framework should be promoted and implemented in intensive care recognising and supporting family's role in the patient's illness and recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Koukouli
- Department of Social Work, Technological Educational Institute of Crete, Greece.
| | | | | | | | - Areti Stavropoulou
- Department of Nursing, Technological Educational Institute of Crete, Greece
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Kaba E, Kelesi M, Stavropoulou A, Moustakas D, Fasoi G. How Greek nurses perceive and overcome the barriers in implementing treatment for pressure ulcers: 'against the odds'. J Wound Care 2017; 26:S20-S26. [PMID: 28880756 DOI: 10.12968/jowc.2017.26.sup9.s20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although the occurrence of pressure ulcers (PUs) is now considered as an indicator of poor quality nursing care, questions and concerns remain regarding situations where PUs were unavoidable, irrespective of the care provided. The aim of this study was to explore Greek nurses' perceptions about the barriers involved and to identify the factors that influence care planning in PU treatment. METHOD A grounded theory approach was used and semi-structured interviews were conducted with nurses who provided pressure care to clients in a rehabilitation centre in Greece. Data were analysed using the constant comparative method. RESULTS We interviewed seven nurses. Findings revealed one main category entitled 'anarchy' in delivery of care consisted of the following three subcategories: interdisciplinary conflicts; total trust in traditional knowledge; and devaluation of other's work/role and a core category 'Against the odds': the perceived value of prevention and treatment can overcome the barriers in treating PUs. CONCLUSION This study gives an overview of the views and beliefs of nurses about the problems and barriers involved in PU prevention and treatment. The study reveals that although some barriers to good practice may exist, nurses can hold a positive attitude toward PU prevention and treatment, and their perceived value of prevention and treatment may help nurses to overcome the barriers in managing PUs.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Kaba
- Assistant Professor, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece.,Associate Professor, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece.,Assistant Professor, Technological Educational Institute of Crete, Greece.,Nursing Student, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece.,Associate Professor, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece
| | - M Kelesi
- Assistant Professor, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece.,Associate Professor, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece.,Assistant Professor, Technological Educational Institute of Crete, Greece.,Nursing Student, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece.,Associate Professor, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece
| | - A Stavropoulou
- Assistant Professor, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece.,Associate Professor, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece.,Assistant Professor, Technological Educational Institute of Crete, Greece.,Nursing Student, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece.,Associate Professor, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece
| | - D Moustakas
- Assistant Professor, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece.,Associate Professor, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece.,Assistant Professor, Technological Educational Institute of Crete, Greece.,Nursing Student, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece.,Associate Professor, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece
| | - G Fasoi
- Assistant Professor, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece.,Associate Professor, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece.,Assistant Professor, Technological Educational Institute of Crete, Greece.,Nursing Student, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece.,Associate Professor, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Greece
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Stavropoulou A, Grammatikopoulou MG, Rovithis M, Kyriakidi K, Pylarinou A, Markaki AG. Through the Patients' Eyes: The Experience of End-Stage Renal Disease Patients Concerning the Provided Nursing Care. Healthcare (Basel) 2017; 5:healthcare5030036. [PMID: 28754014 PMCID: PMC5618164 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare5030036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Revised: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease is a condition that affects both the physical and mental abilities of patients. Nursing care is of pivotal importance, in particular when end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients are concerned, since the quality of the provided care may severely influence the patient’s quality of life. This is why it is important to explore patient experiences concerning the rendered care. However, limited up-to-date studies have addressed this issue. The aim of the present study was to stress the experiences of ESRD patients concerning the provided nursing care in the hemodialysis unit at the University Hospital in Heraklion, Crete. A qualitative methodological approach was used, based on the principles of phenomenological epistemology. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and open-ended questions were applied to record how patients experienced the rendered care during dialysis. The recorded data were analyzed via qualitative content analysis, which revealed three main themes: ‘Physical Care’, ‘Psychological Support’ and ‘Education’. Patients’ views were conceptualized into sub-themes within each main theme. The interviews revealed the varied and distinct views of ESRD patients, indicating that the rendered care should be individualized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areti Stavropoulou
- Department of Nursing, Technological Educational Institute of Crete, Estavromenos, Irakleio, 71004, Greece.
| | - Maria G Grammatikopoulou
- Department of Nutrition & Dietetics, Alexander Technological Educational Institute, Sindos 574 00, Greece.
| | - Michail Rovithis
- Department of Nursing, Technological Educational Institute of Crete, Estavromenos, Irakleio, 71004, Greece.
| | - Konstantina Kyriakidi
- Department of Nutrition & Dietetics, Technological Educational Institute of Crete, Estavromenos, Irakleio, 71004, Greece.
| | - Andriani Pylarinou
- Department of Nutrition & Dietetics, Technological Educational Institute of Crete, Estavromenos, Irakleio, 71004, Greece.
| | - Anastasia G Markaki
- Department of Nutrition & Dietetics, Technological Educational Institute of Crete, Estavromenos, Irakleio, 71004, Greece.
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Kaba E, Kelesi M, Fasoi G, Babatsikou F, Katsimigas G, Stavropoulou A. “Price to Pay for Being Alive”: Coping with the Post-Operative Demands in Heart Transplantation. Glob J Health Sci 2017. [DOI: 10.5539/gjhs.v9n3p227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Understanding the problems experienced and coping strategies used after the heart transplantation, health care providers may help heart transplant recipients’ adaptation to the postoperative period and consequently improve their quality of life. However, there is little qualitative evidence on how heart transplant recipients develop coping strategies and adapt to postoperative life.AIM: The aims of the study were a) to identify the physical and psychosocial problems experienced by heart transplant recipients and b) to identify coping strategies used by heart transplant recipients.METHODS: A grounded theory research approach was used in data collection and analysis for studying heart transplant recipients’ experience. The participants in this study were 42 heart transplant recipients. The data were gathered by taped, unstructured, in-depth interviews. Constant comparison analysis was used to interpret the data.FINDINGS: Four categories developed from the data analysis, namely: “traumatic experience” “that’s a small price to pay for being alive” “somebody else’s heart inside me” and “coping”. The central or core category, “That’s a small price for being alive Vs Too big a price to pay for being alive” emerged and was the main theme around which other categories were integrated. Further interpretation of findings led to the development of a theory entitled “Price to pay for being alive: Coping with the post-operative demands in Heart Transplantation”.CONCLUSION: The theory developed within the frame of this study offers an extension of Moos’ Crisis Theory, and applies his basic concepts of major life crises and transitions with adaptations, to heart transplant patients. One such adaptation is the assertion that the factors that influence how adaptively an individual copes with a heart transplant crisis are different from any other health crisis.
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Deligianni A, Kyriakidou M, Kaba E, Kelesi M, Rovithis M, Fasoi G, Rikos N, Stavropoulou A. “Empathy Equals Match”: The Meaning of Empathy as It Is Perceived by Greek Nurse Students-A Qualitative Study. Glob J Health Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.5539/gjhs.v9n1p171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Empathy is an integral component of the nurse–patient relationship and is critical to the development of the therapeutic relationship. The focus of this qualitative descriptive study is to explore student nurses’ views on empathy. Student nurses related the concept of empathy, with emotion, conscientiousness, care, communication and support. Empathy for these students was the combination of cognitive, emotional and functional characteristics and skills. Each category, which emerged from the data analysis, contained the concepts of emotion, knowledge and skill. These concepts found to be interrelated and interdependent. This led to the formation of a core category called “Empathy equals Match”.
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Anastassopoulos G, Panteliou S, Christopoulou G, Stavropoulou A, Panagiotopoulos E, Lyritis G, Khaldi L, Varakis J, Karamanos N. Vibrational bone characteristics versus bone density for the assessment of osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats. J Med Eng Technol 2009; 34:35-42. [PMID: 19995148 DOI: 10.3109/03091900903324056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- G Anastassopoulos
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Aeronautics, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
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Hasimi A, Stavropoulou A, Papadokostaki K, Sanopoulou M. Transport of water in polyvinyl alcohol films: Effect of thermal treatment and chemical crosslinking. Eur Polym J 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2008.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Papadokostaki K, Stavropoulou A, Sanopoulou M, Petropoulos J. An advanced model for composite planar three-layer matrix-controlled release devices. J Memb Sci 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2007.12.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Philippou A, Stavropoulou A, Sourla A, Pissimissis N, Halapas A, Maridaki M, Koutsilieris M. Characterization of a rabbit antihuman mechano growth factor (MGF) polyclonal antibody against the last 24 amino acids of the E domain. In Vivo 2008; 22:27-35. [PMID: 18396778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The human insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) gene gives rise to multiple, heterogeneous mRNA transcripts by alternative splicing, thus producing different IGF-1 isoforms. The mechano growth factor (MGF) is an IGF-1 isoform that was found to be markedly up-regulated in exercised or damaged muscle. The specific E domain of the MGF splice variant may act as an independent growth factor. The aim of the present study was to characterize a rabbit antihuman MGF polyclonal antibody. New-Zealand rabbits were immunized by injections of a purified synthetic peptide corresponding to the last 24 amino acids of the human C-terminal of the MGF E domain. Western blotting and immunohistochemical techniques were used to characterize the specificity of the polyclonal anti-MGF antiserum. The anti-MGF antiserum was found to recognize the MGF E-peptide and not the common part of the IGF-1 isoforms, i.e. the mature IGF-1 peptide. Furthermore, it specifically bound to the MGF protein in human skeletal and in rat cardiac muscle, apparently due to the considerable homology between the human and rat MGF E-peptide sequences. Immunostaining analysis showed that this polyclonal anti-MGF antibody was able to detect MGF in human muscle and in rat cardiomyocytes and vessels' smooth muscle cells. We conclude that this rabbit polyclonal anti-human/rat MGF antibody could become a valuable tool in the study of IGF-1 isoforms in human and rat tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Philippou
- Department of Experimental Physiology, Medical School, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Science, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Christopoulou GE, Stavropoulou A, Anastassopoulos G, Panteliou SD, Papadaki E, Karamanos NK, Panagiotopoulos E. Evaluation of modal damping factor as a diagnostic tool for osteoporosis and its relation with serum osteocalcin and collagen I N-telopeptide for monitoring the efficacy of alendronate in ovariectomized rats. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2006; 41:891-7. [PMID: 16488571 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2005.12.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2005] [Revised: 12/21/2005] [Accepted: 12/22/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Osteoporosis is a metabolic bone disease characterized by reduced bone mass and deterioration of bone microarchitecture. It results from the shift of the osteoblast-osteoclast activity equilibrium in favor of the later. Although, a number of biochemical markers, such as collagen I N-telopeptide (NTx) and osteocalcin (OC), have been used for monitoring bone remodeling, a new, monitoring, non-invasive method, which is based on the measurement of the dynamic characteristic of bone and is known as modal damping factor (MDF), has not been evaluated as a diagnostic tool for osteoporosis. Bisphosphonates, such as alendronate, have an established role in the treatment of osteoporosis. The aim of the present study was, therefore, to evaluate the effects of alendronate on the levels of MDF, serum NTx and OC on osteoporosis induced by ovariectomy in rats. Furthermore, the effects of alendronate on osteoporosis have been histologically evaluated. Fifteen adult female Wistar rats were bilaterally ovariectomized and osteoporosis was histologically confirmed and by the use of peripheral quantitative computerized tomography (pQCT). MDF was applied to assess the bone structural integrity. The serum levels of NTx (37.4+/-0.5 nM bone collagen equivalents, BCE) and OC (111.0+/-8.2 ng/mL) were found to significantly increase following ovariectomy (72.0+/-2.9 nM BCE and 213.5+/-12.1 ng/mL, respectively, p<0.001). As assessed by histology and the levels of NTx and OC in sera, animals treated with alendronate presented a statistically significant deceleration in the progression of the disease in comparison to the no-therapy control group (alendronate group NTx levels: 146.3+/-8.9 nM BCE versus no-therapy control group NTx levels: 265.3+/-14.0 nM BCE, p<0.001, alendronate group OC levels: 205.6+/-18.2 ng/mL versus no-therapy group OC levels: 353.9+/-26.1 ng/mL, p<0.001). Data obtained from the vibration analysis performed illustrated that the change in damping was equal or greater to the change in total and trabecular density, respectively. Damping increased with decreasing bone density, as expected, given that damping accounts for the structural integrity of bone (MDF value before ovariectomy: 0.058+/-0.003 versus MDF value after ovariectomy: 0.098+/-0.003, p<0.001). The higher damping values correspond to more deteriorated structures. In particular, both total and trabecular density were significantly decreased following ovariectomy (total density before ovariectomy: 702.4+/-19.0 versus total density after ovariectomy: 542.2+/-12.8, p<0.001, trabecular density before ovariectomy: 445.3+/-13.0 versus trabecular density after ovariectomy: 396.7+/-8.4, p<0.05). MDF value of the alendronate group (0.07+/-0.002) was significantly lower (p<0.001) as compared to MDF value after ovariectomy (0.098+/-0.003) and that of the no-therapy group (0.1+/-0.004, p<0.001). The administration of alendronate seemed to have no effect on either total or trabecular density, since both parameters continued to decrease (alendronate group total density: 549.4+/-12.3, alendronate group trabecular density: 368.4+/-14.7). However, when this was compared to the no-therapy group, a statistically significant difference of total density at the 0.05 level was observed (no-therapy total density: 464.8+/-9.1). The results of this study suggest that combined measurements of MDF, NTx and OC may be a potential diagnostic tool for osteoporosis and monitoring bone integrity during treatment with bisphosphonates. Furthermore, administration of alendronate showed to offer a critical deceleration in the progression of osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- G E Christopoulou
- School of Medicine, Laboratory of Anatomy, and Department of Orthopedics, Patras University Hospital, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
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Stavropoulou A, Papadokostaki KG, Sanopoulou M. Effect of loading on a swelling-controlled drug delivery system studied by optical techniques. J Control Release 2005; 101:310-2. [PMID: 15719503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A Stavropoulou
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, National Center for Scientific Research Demokritos, 153 10 Ag. Paraskevi, Athens, Greece
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Stavropoulou A, Papadokostaki KG, Sanopoulou M. Experimental and theoretical study of the release kinetics of propranolol hydrochloride from PVA matrices. J Control Release 2005; 101:313-5. [PMID: 15719506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
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Georgopoulou C, Zintzaras E, Papadimitropoulos M, Spyropoulou M, Stavropoulou A, Moutsopoulos H, Manoussakis M. Arthritis Res Ther 2005; 7:P100. [DOI: 10.1186/ar1621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Stavropoulou A, Papadokostaki KG, Sanopoulou M. Thermal properties of poly(vinyl alcohol)-solute blends studied by TMDSC. J Appl Polym Sci 2004. [DOI: 10.1002/app.20559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Sachpazidis I, Stassinakis A, Memos D, Fragou S, Nachamoulis S, Vamvatsikos A, Stavropoulou A, Fonseca M, Magalhães R, Valente B, D'Aquila A, Fruscione M, Ferreira J, Aguiar C. [@HOME is a new Eu-Project in Tele Home care]. BIOMED ENG-BIOMED TE 2003; 47 Suppl 1 Pt 2:970-2. [PMID: 12465359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
@Home is a robust platform for real-time remote monitoring of patients at their home by doctors at the hospital. Health monitoring sensors, which have the capability to measure quick and easy vital parameters such as blood pressure, pulse rate, temperature, oxygen saturation (SpO2), as well as ECG 12 leads are used. Additionally, an advantage of the platform is that all the sensors are wearable and the patient is able to walk around indoors or outdoors. Moreover, the sensors are able to convey the recorded data over Bluetooth, a short-range wireless communication, to any Bluetooth enabled device such as Desktop computer or a Pocket PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Sachpazidis
- Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics, Darmstadt, Germany.
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Sachpazidis I, Stassinakis A, Memos D, Fragou S, Nachamoulis S, Vamvatsikos A, Stavropoulou A, Fonseca M, Magalhães R, Valente B, D'Aquila A, Fruscione M, Ferreira J, Aguiar C. @HOME EIN NEUES EU-PROJEKT ZUM TELE HOME CARE. BIOMED ENG-BIOMED TE 2002. [DOI: 10.1515/bmte.2002.47.s1b.970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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