Barbara Irene Campbell
USDA Fruit and Vegetable Grant: An Evaluation of its Effectiveness in School-Age Children
Advisor: Eric A. Hodges, PhD, FNP-BC, Assistant Professor
Statement
My previous degree is from The Culinary Institute of America. I believe nursing will provide me unique opportunities to integrate my passion for cooking, my knowledge of food and my desire to address public health concerns related to nutrition and wellness.
Abstract
The prevalence of overweight-obese children and adolescents in the United States represents a health care crisis. According to recent estimates, 40% of the nation’s children are overweight; in North Carolina the number is 32.8%. Consequences of excess weight involve multiple systems including cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, endocrine, metabolic and psychological. Overweight children often follow the same trajectory into adulthood making their health problems more complicated and severe. Efforts to address this epidemic have been initiated on different state levels with varying degrees of success.
This descriptive pilot study looked at the efficacy of the USDA Fruit and Vegetable Program implemented in an Orange County, North Carolina elementary school to address obesity and promote health awareness. This study focused on a select fifth grade class to determine changes in eating patterns and nutrition knowledge obtained by a food survey. BMI values were conducted pre- and post-intervention.
Respondent data reflected no significant change in BMI values over the four month study period. The food survey reflected a marked increase in both the variety and consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables during this period. Students enjoyed participating in the program and expressed an increased desire to eat more fruits and vegetables; a better understanding of their nutritional health benefit was also noted. Comprehensive nutrition education programs, as the USDA Fruit and Vegetable Program, in addition to a dedicated instructional staff provide a unique opportunity for public elementary schools to become leaders in the fight against childhood obesity.
Mary Virginia Carter
Exile and Reintegration among Rape Survivors in the Democratic Republic of Congo: Factors Influencing Rejection and Acceptance
Advisor: Meg Zomorodi, RN, CNL, PhD, Clinical Assistant Professor
Highest Honors
Statement
Since I was little, I have always wanted a career in healthcare. My passion for helping people led me to work abroad. During this time, I had the opportunity to see first-hand the difference that nurses could make, not only in the lives of their patients but in the lives of the family and the overall health of the community. I found their innovation and dedication inspiring and decided to go into nursing, which is the perfect fit for my desire to help those in need and to work in the healthcare field.
Abstract
The Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to be plagued by the systematic rape of women and young girls. With estimates suggesting that 200,000 women have been raped since 1996, the implications for the country and the society are profound. This study was aimed at understanding the unique cultural factors that influence exile and reintegration of women post rape by their husbands. As part of the secondary data analysis, 17 transcripts from female rape survivors were evaluated in order to identify themes that influence acceptance or rejection. The women were divided into five unique groups based on their marital status. From these interviews, 11 themes were identified. This study found that women who had testing positive for HIV, abducted by their aggressors, or had become pregnant from the rape were never accepted back by their husbands. Shame, living in fear, barriers to medical treatment and lasting medical complications were factors that influenced a women’s likelihood to face exile. Higher education, ability to conceive after being raped, husband trauma, mediation and optimism were associated with acceptance. By understanding the barriers to reintegration, specific programming and interventions can be developed to help women to transition back into their families. As the conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues, it is becoming increasingly important to address these barriers in order to preserve the families and prevent further disruption of the social cohesion of the communities.
Lisa Eileen Ecklund
The Care of Children with Type 1 Diabetes in North Carolina Charter Schools: Experiences of Unlicensed Assistive Personnel
Advisor: Sonda Oppewal, PhD, RN, Clinical Associate Professor
Statement
I grew up in a large extended family with many members employed in the medical field. Several of my aunts are nurses, and their touching stories drew me to the nursing profession. I chose to go into nursing because it combines my fascination of human biology with my passion for helping those in need.
Abstract
Research findings suggest that strict blood glucose control in children with diabetes prevents long-term complications; hence, the consistent management of this chronic illness while children are in school is of vital importance. The North Carolina legislature, recognizing that a school nurse may not be available full-time to manage emergency situations and the day-to-day care of students with diabetes, passed legislation that requires at least two personnel (often non-medical) to be trained to handle diabetic emergencies. School nurses must assure that the delegation of diabetes management to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) will result in safe and effective care. The School Health Services Report (2010) revealed that while 100% of public schools in North Carolina reported compliance with this legislation, only 49% of charter schools responded. The purpose of this study was to describe the experiences of UAP who provide care to children with type 1 diabetes in charter schools. After obtaining the permission of school administrators, a 19-item survey questionnaire was distributed through email to staff members identified by the administrator as diabetes care providers. Fifteen UAP responded from a total of six charter schools. The majority of the UAP (66.7%) reported compliance with state legislation, and most felt comfortable assisting students with diabetes care tasks. Several UAP suggested that ongoing review sessions would help them feel better prepared. It is clear that registered nurses have an important role when delegating diabetes care activities to UAP in school settings to help assure the health and well-being of school children with diabetes.]]
Nicole Ashley Frazer
Examining the Interest in an Online Support Group for Young Breast Cancer Survivors
Advisor: Merle Mishel, PhD, RN, FAAN, Kenan Professor of Nursing
Statement
I chose to go into nursing as a second-degree student. I recognized it as an ideal career path that would allow me the opportunity to help people and communities who need it most. I want to care for others who cannot care for themselves and to help make a difference in their lives. I saw nursing as a
profession where I could dedicate myself to my work, continuously be challenged, learn constantly, and work in an ever-evolving field all while providing care. I want to advocate for patient populations who need a voice and support. Since being at UNC’s School of Nursing I know that nursing is the perfect fit
for me and is what I am meant to do.
Abstract
Breast cancer affects women of all ages and more women are surviving breast cancer diagnoses than ever before. Breast cancer survivors are often grouped together, when in fact younger female breast cancer survivors aged less than 50 years have different needs compared to older survivors. Psychosocial support has proven beneficial for younger breast cancer survivors as they deal with concerns of survivorship. Internet support groups provide an accessible means for these younger breast cancer survivors to balance their psychosocial support needs with the complexity of their lives. A survey was conducted to gauge whether an online support group would be of interest to younger breast cancer survivors, and if so, what topics they wanted to include. This study presents that younger breast cancer survivors desire an online support group specifically for them. The results also list topics of concern specific to younger breast cancer survivors including physical and body changes, diet and exercise, support system, fear of recurrence, stress, emotional stress, sexuality, raising children, and career balance. Younger breast cancer survivors often lack their own peer group specific to their situation and frequently these younger breast cancer survivors’ psychosocial support needs go unmet; perhaps an online support group would help fulfill these needs. Future research should be done on younger breast cancer survivors psychosocial support needs as they continue their lives through survivorship.
Ryan Elizabeth Love
Critical Care Nurses’ Knowledge of Central Venous Catheter Dressing Management
Advisor: Meg Zomorodi, RN, CNL, PhD, Clinical Assistant Professor
Highest Honors
Statement
It may sound unrealistic but I believe everyone has a calling in life to do something that makes a difference in the lives of others and gives them a feeling of worthiness and self-esteem. I prayed, earned a Bachelor of Science degree, traveled around the world, and sought many opinions in search of determining my own calling. Nursing is my calling because caring for people makes a positive difference in my life, it has boundless opportunities, and I have the fortitude to meet the challenges of a nurse.
Abstract
The aim of this review was to evaluate current strategies for critical care nurses’ to reduce the risk of central line associated blood stream infections (CLABSI) in an ICU setting. Although CVCs are integral to critical care nursing, their use has been associated with CLABSI. CLABSI are often considered preventable nosocomial infections that result in increased patient morbidity, mortality, and excess hospital costs.
A literature review was conducted using CINAHL, PubMed, and the ancestry method to search a ten-year period from 2000 to 2010. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN), and Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) databases were also searched to gain the most current evidence of best practices to reduce CLABSI.
Following evaluation of the review criteria, a total of 15 articles were selected for review. Articles were categorized by how they addressed the research questions for this study: definition of CLABSI, CVC dressing change protocols, IHI insertion bundle care, educational interventions aimed at healthcare workers, nurse empowerment to stop CVC insertion, and nurse practice related to CVC care.
Although numerous studies have shown educational interventions have been associated with decreased CLABSI rates, a gap in knowledge exists in studies focused on critical care nurses’ knowledge of CVC dressing management. Results from this literature review may lead to further research determining if educational interventions aimed at critical care nurse knowledge and compliance result in decreased rates of CLABSI. Evidence based practice is critical to reduce CLABSI rates, empower nurses, and improve patient outcomes.
Erin Elizabeth Marett
The Benefits of Equine Assisted Activities for Children with Autism
Advisor: Marcia Van Riper, PhD, RN, Associate Professor and Chair, Family Health Division
Statement
I chose nursing as my profession because nursing is a combination of my interests and values. I enjoy learning about the physiology of the human body and the health care interventions discovered thus far to treat medical conditions and diseases. I also enjoy interacting with others in a meaningful way and
providing assistance to others that enables physical, emotional, and psychological growth. The profession of nursing provides an opportunity that will continually challenge me with new situations and enhance my critical thinking skills, fostering an environment for learning and professional growth.
Abstract
Autism is a developmental disorder defined by behaviors that cause significant social, communication, and behavioral challenges. Therapies, such as Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies (EAAT), aim to improve the quality of life for individuals with autism and are becoming a popular alternative to clinical therapy. Hippotherapy and Therapeutic Horseback Riding are two types of equine assisted activities which incorporate the motion of the horse and the interaction with the horse to contribute positively to the cognitive, physical, and social well being of individuals.
This paper examines the benefits of Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies (EAAT) through a case study of twin 6 year old males, Isaac and Michael, who have been diagnosed with autism. The benefits Isaac and Michael receive from equine assisted activities were identified during an interview with their mother. Findings from the interview suggest that Michael and Isaac benefit from the riding lessons in many ways. Additional information about equine assisted activities was obtained through interviews with therapeutic horseback riding instructors from North Carolina Therapeutic Riding Center. Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies (EEAT) provide the opportunity for Isaac and Michael to interact with others, develop new language, form relationships with the animals and encounter learning in a new environment. Michael and Isaac’s mother received information about therapeutic horseback riding from a member of their church and frequently discuss the therapy with Michael and Isaac’s health care provider.
The knowledge of alternative therapies, such as Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies (EAAT), is essential for health care providers. Health care providers are resources for their patients and patient’s families. By being aware of effective alternative therapies, nurses can educate their patients on ways that have the potential to improve their quality of life.
Micah Andrew McCanna
Liberation from Mechanical Ventilation: An Evaluation of Protocols, Extubation Time, and Risks Associated
Advisor: Nakia C. Best, MSN, RN, Clinical Instructor
Statement
I have always wanted to pursue a career in the medical field. I was not sure where I wanted to end up, though. After receiving my B.S. degree in Exercise Physiology I decided to pursue teaching as a professor. I graduated from the Master of Art Health Education and Promotion Program at East Carolina University where I also taught health education for a few years. This was a great job but I was not happy. I wanted to do more. I wanted a more hands-on approach to health. I started shadowing at Pitt County Memorial Hospital, and I fell in love with what I saw. I shadowed a nurse in the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit, and I was hooked!
Abstract
Mechanical ventilation is a vital part of life support when dealing with critical care for hospitalized patients. Despite the fact that most surgical procedures could not be successful without intubating a patient, there are still multiple risk factors associated with mechanical ventilation. Research articles investigating risks associated with mechanical ventilation, weaning protocols, safe patient nursing practice, and extubation times were identified by searching CINAHL, PubMed, Google Scholar, and reference lists of identified studies. Best patient practice and the process of ventilator weaning has remained widely controversial. The examination of four major questions was used to review multiple protocols and weaning procedures to establish techniques which would reduce ventilation time, decrease the risk of contracting a ventilator associated infection, and improve patient outcomes. What are pathophysiological risks associated with prolonged intubation? What major themes are responsible for decreased extubation times? What are the usual processes and indices of initial weaning from the ventilator? And finally, are there different instances which alternative weaning protocols and procedures may be more effective than others? After careful review, various commonalities were noted and specific recommendations could be applied to the weaning process. The weaning process should be considered as early as possible as well as the implementation of spontaneous breathing trials, early application of noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation, and silver-coated endotracheal tubes. A closer look at the patient should be taken to evaluate the severity of illness and co-morbid conditions which is a key factor for preventing post-extubation acute respiratory failure.
Julia E. Rasmussen
Cystic Fibrosis-Related Diabetes: A Review of the Literature and Recommendations for Improved Screening
Advisor: Ann O’Hale, MPH, MSN, RN, PNP, Clinical Assistant Professor
Statement
Nursing is a diverse field that allows me to combine all of my interests: teaching, physiology, and personal relationships. To be a nurse is to consider and prioritize all of the factors affecting your patient’s life from the physiological to the psychosocial. This thoughtful and interdisciplinary approach is what I love about nursing.
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosommal recessive disorder that affects multiple organ systems. It is most associated with pulmonary disease, but as CF care and life expectancy have improved, comorbidities have emerged. Diabetes is a common complication of CF and is associated with advancing age, female gender, CF genotype and the presence of pancreatic insufficiency. If uncontrolled or undiagnosed, CF-related diabetes (CFRD) is associated with declining lung function, nutritional status and BMI. Screening by oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT) in patients with CF suggests that impaired glucose tolerance and diabetes may be underdiagnosed. Intervention through insulin therapy may improve metabolism and improve or stabilize lung function. Patients with acute pulmonary exacerbations and normal 2 hour OGTT results may experience hyperglycemia and impaired glucose tolerance as a result of stress. In other critically ill patients, there is some evidence that hyperglycemia induced by illness-associated stress may unmask early alterations in glycemic control. This has led us to the question: do CF patients who experience hyperglycemia during the stress of an acute exacerbation have impaired glucose tolerance and are they at risk for developing CF-related diabetes? Outlined here is a review of the current literature, a screening protocol and related patient education materials for the development and implementation of a new screening protocol with the goal of improving the detection of impaired glucose tolerance and CFRD, leading to earlier onset of insulin therapy to improve lung function and nutritional status.
Elizabeth A. Reeves
Examining Social, Cultural, and Personal Factors that Affect Infant Feeding Practices among Low-Income African-American Women
Advisor: Cheryl Woods-Giscombe, PhD, MSN, RN, Assistant Professor
Statement
Nursing requires a complex knowledge of both the human body and the human spirit, and the ability to provide care for both. The interactions nurses have with their patients provide daily opportunities for the development of the nurse’s knowledge and skill set, as well as for personal growth. Nursing is the ultimate hands-on learning experience, making it a dynamic and progressive profession that I feel proud to take part in. I also believe that nursing can play a significant role in addressing social inequality and injustice—by advocating for and creating equality in healthcare, nurses can improve the well-being of all patients and contribute to a more equitable and just society for everyone.
Abstract
Understanding the demographic, socioeconomic, psychosocial, and cultural factors that influence breastfeeding rates, as well as understanding African American women’s decision processes and beliefs regarding infant feeding is critical to eliminating racial disparities in rates of breastfeeding. This study used a comprehensive review of literature to create targeted educational literature on breastfeeding in the form of a culturally sensitive, user-friendly booklet for use with pregnant women during prenatal care. A focus group discussion (n = 6) was conducted to attain feedback regarding the educational booklet’s strengths and weakness in order to maximize its effectiveness and appeal. Positive reactions and statements of participants regarding the booklet indicate that this resource could be helpful to new mothers in this population (low-income, pregnant African American women). While reading the booklet might not necessarily radically change the intentions of women who plan to formula-feed or combination-feed their infants, it may at least inspire these women to consider learning more about breastfeeding or to attempt breastfeeding. Additionally, participants’ indications that having access to the booklet while breastfeeding previous children may have helped them breastfeed longer provides further support for the usefulness of the booklet as part of prenatal education.
Mary Kelly Reid
Women’s Satisfaction with Their Labor and Birth Experiences
Advisor: Kathryn R. Alden, EdD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, Clinical Associate Professor
Statement
I have always had a strong interest in science and health care, along with a calling to come in service of others. Nursing combines the two perfectly.
Abstract
Labor and childbirth experiences are memorable moments for most women. Their satisfaction with the experience is influenced by a variety of factors. Intrapartum nurses play an important role in the care that women and their families receive during labor and birth. Nurses’ awareness of women’s perceptions of their labor and birth experiences in terms of satisfaction can help to improve nursing practice and enhance quality of care. Relatively few studies in the nursing literature have explored women’s perceptions of labor and birth, and few tools have been developed and well-tested to measure those perceptions and satisfaction. The purpose of this descriptive study was to explore women’s perceptions as evidenced by satisfaction with labor and birth experiences and to use the findings to recommend improvements in intrapartum nursing practice. The sample consisted of 31 women on a mother-baby unit who had given birth to healthy term infants through uncomplicated vaginal deliveries. Subjects completed the Mackey Childbirth Satisfaction Rating Survey (MCRS) and demographic form. Scores on the MCRS revealed that the vast majority of women were satisfied with their labor and birth experience. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that age and met expectations were significantly related to the overall satisfaction score. Age was significantly related to all of the satisfaction subscales except for satisfaction with partner. Met expectations were significant when compared to the satisfaction with self subscale. Of the five subscales on the MCRS, the highest rating was satisfaction with partner and the lowest was satisfaction with self.
Mary Catherine Rich
Constructing Support: Adaptation and Resilience in a Latino Family with a Son with Down Syndrome
Advisor: Marcia Van Riper, PhD, RN, Associate Professor and Chair, Family Health Division
Statement
Nurses impact others’ lives in a deep and meaningful way. My experience in Ecuador as a Peace Corps volunteer at a rural health clinic motivated me to become a nurse.
Abstract
Down syndrome, or trisomy 21, is the most commonly occurring genetic condition in the United States. It manifests in different ways, including intellectual disability, cardiac defects, gastrointestinal malformations, hearing and vision deficits, and other health issues. The purpose of this research was to explore a Hispanic family’s experience of raising a child with Down syndrome. Down syndrome has a higher prevalence among Hispanics but knowledge about minority families’ experience with this genetic condition is lacking; therefore, the concept of support mechanisms in Hispanic families was selected for further study. A case study was chosen to facilitate discussion of the unique issues this population faces.
The Resiliency Model of Family Stress, Adjustment, and Adaptation served as the conceptual framework; it allowed for examination of variables (family demands, resources, problem-solving communication, and coping) that influence adaptation to a stressor. Measures of adaptation and resources, including the Family Index of Regenerativity and Adaptation, Family Problem-Solving Communication Index, and Family Management Measure, were used in conjunction with a semi-structured interview to yield quantitative and qualitative data. Through this combination of methods, one mother described her family’s experience with raising a son with Down syndrome and the social support network that she constructed to cope with the resulting demands. Basic values of trust, respect, and genuine relationships were key to constructing a multi-level support network that effectively helped this family adapt to the many demands of raising a son with Down syndrome.
Micker K. Samios
Transitioning Kids with Cystic Fibrosis to Independent Care
Advisor: Diane Yorke, MBA, PhD, RN, CPNP, Clinical Assistant Professor
Highest Honors
Statement
Caring for others comes naturally to me. Nursing inspires me to provide holistic individualized care
to more than just our patient, but also to our families, coworkers and ourselves. Nursing is perfect for
me, it allows me to provide quality care, conduct research and continually expand and develop my
knowledge and experiences. This field has no limits.
Abstract
The advances in treatments for cystic fibrosis (CF) have improved the life expectancy of patients with CF and most are living well into adulthood. Children with (CF) are usually diagnosed in infancy and subjected to a challenging daily treatment regime that includes complex medications, extensive chest physiotherapy, and frequent hospitalizations. Ordinarily, the transition from dependent to independent care occurs throughout adolescence, but for many children with CF this transition is not addressed until they reach their late teens (Flume, 2009). The purpose of this project was to develop educational material to help younger children with CF, ages 5-8, to take a more active role in their care. This material focused on common medications and treatments that are required for CF patients. The educational material was developed with the assistance of nurses caring for and specializing in CF patient care. These nurses have a unique perspective for the design of educational material: they have knowledge of the overall disease process, can identify patients’ knowledge gaps, and have experience with education of the target population. Nurses participated in focus groups where they provided feedback on the educational material. Their input along with a health educator was used to redesign and improve the educational material. Final revisions were made with consultation from a hospital educator. This material may be used to foster children’s understanding of CF and facilitate their transition to independent care.
Sara Anne Schumann
Implementation of a Bedside Family Charting Tool in the NICU
Advisor: Diane Yorke, MBA, PhD, RN, CPNP, Clinical Assistant Professor
Highest Honors
Statement
I chose nursing as my profession because nursing provides a more holistic framework with which one can care for patients and their families along the health and illness continuum.
Abstract
The Newborn Critical Care Center (NCCC) at North Carolina Children’s Hospital identified the need for an increased focus on family-centered care (FCC) based on feedback obtained from families and providers. As a theoretical framework, FCC is an approach to the planning, delivery and evaluation of health care, based in a respectful coalition between providers and the family, with the ultimate goal of including the family in decision making (Griffin, 2006). In response to the FCC initiative, the ‘Baby Steps’ family charting tool was created as an intervention to help facilitate the partnership between health care providers and parents, thereby empowering families to be a part of the health care team. ‘Baby Steps’ consists of a binder containing information orienting families to the unit and its providers, family charting tools (for infant growth, development, feeding cues, and pain cues), a ‘questions for providers’ section, and an invitation to participate in daily attending-physician rounds. The ‘Baby Steps’ family charting tool was implemented as standard of care to all English-speaking families in the NCCC. The tool’s use was evaluated through objective data collection, interviews with families, and communication with nursing staff. The preliminary findings of this pilot study in one neonatal intensive care unit reveal that families will use a bedside family charting tool and do desire to participate in attending-physician rounds.
Kara Elise Timmons
Caring for the Bariatric Population in the Hospital Setting – An Online Module
Advisor: Louise Fleming, MSN, RN, Clinical Instructor
Statement
I always loved science and the human body, which drew me toward healthcare. However, it was my love of human interaction and my compassion for others that drew me toward nursing. After spending some time working in a surgical clinic and traveling on medical missions, I found that nursing better fit my professional desire to care for others who needed me during times of vulnerability. Additionally, I found the endless possibilities for professional growth to be exciting and encouraging.
Abstract
With the expansion of the bariatric population, increased rates of obesity-associated co-morbidities, and increased number of hospital admissions of obese patients, nurses will likely have more encounters with this patient population in all fields of medicine – not just before or after bariatric surgery. During these interactions, nurses will be expected to provide the same informed, quality care to this population as they would to any other. Currently, there is a lack of education in the undergraduate curriculum as well as within the hospital setting, resulting in many nurses that may not possess the skills and competencies required to provide competent, sensitive care to this unique population. Based on the limited amount of information available in the literature, there is a noticeable need for further research to determine how many facilities are implementing bariatric-specific educational interventions for the nurses, how efficient these interventions are on increasing knowledge within post-registration nurses, and what are the implications on patient outcome and satisfaction. In an effort to address these needs, an online module on caring for the bariatric patient within the hospital setting was created with a focus on the unique aspects of the physical assessment, obesity-related risks, and sensitive care and communication of the bariatric patient. This module was created with the intention of implementation within the hospital setting for the continuing education of nurses to improve bariatric patient satisfaction, providing safe and sensitive care, and increasing nursing confidence when interaction with this unique population.
Lara Elizabeth Whalley
Dietary Consumption Patterns in Hispanic Mothers with 2-to-4 Year Old Children
Advisor: Diane Berry, PhD, ANP-BC, Assistant Professor
Statement
I always gravitated towards medicine but finally decided to go into nursing after helping many sick relatives in the hospital. I knew I was passionate about caring for people, but nursing combined everything I was looking for in a career including continual learning experiences, intensity, advancing technology and knowledge, and variety.
Abstract
Childhood obesity is rising steadily in the United States putting children at greater risk for developing numerous short- and long-term health problems. Obesity rates for Hispanic children are among the highest. Cultural factors unique to the Hispanic population contribute to the risk of developing obesity. Parents, especially mothers, have a strong influence over what their children consume. Family-centered intervention programs are being developed to address this epidemic. However, little is known about the dietary patterns of Hispanic mothers. By understanding what Hispanic mothers are consuming, researchers can tailor culturally sensitive interventions to address unhealthy habits and lower BMIs in mothers and their children. The purpose of this article is to 1) describe dietary patterns of Hispanic mothers and 2) examine the effects of a parent-child weight management intervention on nutritional health behaviors of Hispanic mothers with children aged 2-to-4 years. Results indicate that the intervention increased healthy dietary practices of these mothers such as reducing intake of regular soda, sugary drinks, unhealthy snacking, fast food, and fried foods. Future studies with Hispanic populations should continue to look at consumption patterns over time and exploring the role of family dynamics and parental influences on child nutritional patterns. In intervention programs, special attention should be given to overcoming barriers to healthy eating such as time constraints and expensive produce. Healthcare providers should recognize this population is at higher risk for obesity and provide nutritional education to help parents stabilize their children’s weight trajectory to reduce their risk of future chronic health problems.
Susan Elizabeth Wilson
The Effectiveness of Burn Camp – A Pilot Study
Advisor: Megan P. Williams, MSN, RN, FNP, Clinical Assistant Professor
Statement
I strongly believe the nursing profession chose me. Throughout my life I was introduced to the world of nursing without my realization. I always knew I wanted to work with people, but was unclear in what capacity. I never thought my career path would lead me to become a Nurse, but here I am
today, and this is exactly where I belong.
Abstract
The purpose of this qualitative pilot study, conducted in collaboration with the North Carolina Jaycee Burn Center, was to serve as preliminary research to establish the feasibility of future studies regarding burn aftercare’s impact in the psychosocial healing of pediatric burn survivors. Burn aftercare refers not only to the physical aspects of healing but encompasses meeting the emotional and psychosocial needs of patients and their families. In this study, the surveyed opinions and experiences of three adult burn survivors who attended an aftercare program, Camp Celebrate, as children and later returned as camp counselors, provide a unique perspective of the psychosocial outcomes of burn camp. The results are based on three major themes: peer support, psychological rehabilitation, and value. A larger body of data and analysis is needed to validate the vitally important services burn camps offer. The creation of a tool to provide feedback from campers on their experiences that can capture pre- and post burn mentality is essential in today’s world where professional accountability of a program is based on the statistical documentation of success. By providing a voice to three burn survivors who found value in the burn camp they attended, this study hopes to encourage others to begin the process of validating the success of aftercare programs, like burn camp.