Scholars Symposium 2025: Nursing

Improving Outcomes: Increasing Referral Rates through STOP-BANG Questionnaire Integration

by Jessica Darnell (Graduate)

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common, yet underdiagnosed sleep disorder associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity, hypertension, and perioperative complications. Despite its prevalence, OSA often remains undetected in primary care settings, leading to poor patient outcomes and increased healthcare utilization. Early screening using validated tools such as the STOP-BANG questionnaire has demonstrated effectiveness in identifying at-risk patients and guiding timely interventions. This quality improvement project (QI) pre/post test aims to implement the STOP-BANG questionnaire to increase referral rates in a cardiology clinic. A search of multiple databases verified that the STOP-BANG questionnaire is a reliable instrument that has been used to screen patients for OSA to assist in early identification of those at risk for OSA and prompt referral. The anticipated potential contribution of this project is the advancement of evidence-based screening for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in clinical settings, leading to earlier referral to assist in identification and intervention for at-risk patients. By implementing the STOP-BANG questionnaire as a standardized screening tool, this initiative has the potential to reduce the prevalence of undiagnosed OSA, mitigate associated comorbidities such as hypertension and cardiovascular disease, and improve overall patient outcomes. Additionally, integrating a structured screening process into routine clinical practice may improve workflow efficiency, optimize resource utilization, and inform future quality improvement initiatives aimed at addressing sleep-disordered breathing in high-risk populations.

Exploratory Literature Review of Alzheimer’s and the Influence of Diet on Inflammation

by Charlotte Blair (Undergraduate)

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia and affects millions of people and their families globally as a leading cause of neurological disability and mortality. Recent evidence suggests that the cyclical neuroinflammatory processes conducted by glial cells in the brain play a major part in the possible rapid progression of this form of neurodegeneration. Other studies show a connection between the inflammatory processes in the gastrointestinal tract and the continuation and even worsening of neuroinflammation. While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, researching early disease prevention and management through diet can assist patients, families, and caregivers worldwide. Using global research articles written within the past five years, this literature review describes the most recent explanations of Alzheimer’s disease. This literature review will provide descriptions of the influence of diet on neuroinflammation and its effects on disease progression and/or prevention of this chronic disease process.

Increasing hepatitis C screening and referral within an FQHC look-alike, primary care setting: A quality improvement project

by Alexis Newsome (Graduate)

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a liver disease brought on by a viral infection that presents few or no symptoms during an acute infection (CDC, 2024). Chronic HCV infection can result in irreversible liver damage, such as cirrhosis or hepatic carcinoma (Moyer et al., 2013). Although there is no current preventative vaccine, there are treatment options that can cure the host of the virus (CDC, 2024). Research has shown that screening for hepatitis C in the primary care setting, based on risk factors, has been an effective method for early detection (Layman, et. al., 2020; Perkins, et. al., 2021; and Zuure, et al., 2010). To date, there has been a lack of screening for HCV due to the absence of a screening protocol or procedure in place at a small community health center in Springfield, Ohio. Current recommendations available by several health organizations, including the CDC, WHO, and USPSTF, propose a gold standard of care, which is to screen all adults, 18 years and older, and more often if considered a patient at high risk of infection (Layman, et. al., 2020 and Moyer, 2013). The purpose of this project is to improve screening and referral rates for HCV infection at a small community health facility by implementing an HCV risk assessment tool into the Electronic Health Record system (EHR). The objective of this quality improvement project is to increase hepatitis C screening from 0% to 60% within a 4-week implementation period. WHO estimated that 242,000 people died in 2022 from severe liver disease related to HCV infection. WHO has a goal to end HCV by 2030. Clark County Combined Health District reports from 2024 indicate rising numbers of HCV infection, with sixty-seven reported cases year to date, fifty-nine reported cases in 2023 (Clark, 2024). Improving HCV screening through risk-based assessment will not only improve patient outcomes but assist in reaching the WHO goal of HCV eradication by 2030.

Mind Mapping for Clinical Problem Solving

by Abby McDole (Graduate)

Introduction: Mind mapping is a complex process of diagramming cognitive processes into graphical formats to visualize thought patterns and explain relationships and cognitive reasoning. Evidence supports using mind mapping for educational purposes in undergraduate nursing and clinical settings (Elastrag &Elsabugh, 2020; Ordu & Caliskan, 2023; Yan et al., 2024). Mind mapping can be used to define a clinical problem for a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), scholarly project. The benefits of using mind mapping in planning a DNP scholarly project are creative brainstorming, a comprehensive view of the problem, the ability to prioritize and focus, and improved communication (The University of Adelaide, 2014). Purpose: The purpose of this project was to use the process of mind mapping in collaboration with clinical practice partners and stakeholders to formulate a focused and well-defined clinical problem. This process strengthens relationships with clinical practice partners and stakeholders. Methods: A Doctor of Nursing Practice student collaborated with clinical practice partners and stakeholders to use mind mapping to determine a clinical problem that is important to the clinical setting. Using Lucid diagramming software (Lucid software, 2025) and input from clinical practice partners and stakeholders, the clinical problem was mind-mapped following the input of relevant keywords, concepts, and phrases. Current clinical processes and the best evidence from an ongoing quality and safety improvement project were used. The mind map included current step-by-step clinical processes, institutional policies, interventions, strategies of care, barriers to processes, and solutions. The mind map served as a s tool to explain clinical reasoning and problem-solving to others in educational contexts and as the critical first step in planning a DNP scholarly project. Results: This project's outcome was a collaboration with clinical practice partners and stakeholders to develop a well-defined mind map that accurately identified and refined clinical problems. This mind map will be the basis for the DNP scholarly project. Future Implications: The pivotal step in developing a DNP scholarly project is identifying a clinical problem. Doctor of Nursing Practice students can use mind mapping methodology as a catalyst for collaboration with clinical practice partners and stakeholders to identify and define a clinical practice problem. This methodology could be applied in other disciplines when seeking to characterize and refine a problem relevant to the specific area of concern.

The Effect of Spiritual Care Education on ICU Nurses’ Perceived Competence in Providing Daily Spiritual Assessment: A Quality Improvement Project

by Vida Boafo (Graduate)

This Quality Improvement Project (QI) aims to evaluate the impact of spiritual care education on ICU nurses' perceived competence in conducting daily spiritual assessments. The project's main objectives are: to enhance nurses' perceived competence and to integrate spiritual care assessments into daily nursing routines to better identify patients' spiritual needs and improve referrals to chaplaincy services in the ICU. Recognizing that spiritual well-being significantly affects physical health and recovery outcomes (Rykkje et al., 2021; De Diego-Cordero, 2022), the importance of spiritual care in healthcare is evident. However, studies show that many nurses feel inadequately prepared to meet patients' spiritual needs due to insufficient formal education (Southard et al., 2020; McSherry et al., 2019). Riahi et al. (2018) found that around 89% of nurses lacked prior education in spiritual care, leading to a deficiency in confidence and training necessary for conducting spiritual assessments (O'Brien et al., 2019). This oversight can result in unmet spiritual needs and negative impacts on patient health (Puchalski, 2021). Enhanced education can foster nurses' awareness and provision of spiritual care, encouraging them to conduct assessments and offer appropriate support (Sharifnia et al., 2022). Research indicates that educational interventions improve nurses' attitudes toward spiritual care and increase the likelihood of screening for spiritual concerns (Ebrahimi et al., 2017; Hu et al., 2019). Focused education could bridge the competency gap in this vital aspect of holistic patient care (Hu et al., 2019; Wang et al., 2024)which is the reason this project will focus on educating nurses on spiritual care.

Enhancing Minority Patient Outcomes: The Impact of Culturally Tailored Interventions

by Emily Newell (Undergraduate), Abigail Highton (Undergraduate), Elena Moritz (Undergraduate), Hannah Ziegler (Undergraduate), Rachel Stuercke (Undergraduate)

The minority population in America is rapidly growing and with it the need to cater to different ethnicities in the healthcare system. Culturally tailored interventions are in place but tailored for majority populations and not customized for minority groups. This project aimed to find and critically appraise academic articles that evaluated culturally tailored health care for minority groups compared to standard interventions and to understand the interventions' effect on minority patient satisfaction. We used CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature) and PubMed (Public Medical Database) to find peer-reviewed academic articles from 2015-2025. We included articles that addressed the topic of culturally tailored health interventions and patient satisfaction in minority groups. John Hopkin’s Evidence-Based Practice tools Appendices E and F determined each article’s quality. The ten articles included in this study found that incorporating culturally tailored interventions for minority groups into the healthcare context increased minority patients’ satisfaction with their care. The research also showed that a patient-provider match from the same culture had better patient satisfaction outcomes than providers and patients of different racial groups. Despite the positive correlation between culturally competent care and patient satisfaction, integration of such interventions is lacking among healthcare workers. Healthcare workers must attempt to eliminate barriers to culturally appropriate healthcare as much as possible. They must also stay educated on the cultures around them to see positive patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Impact of Exercise on GDM Management

by Malena Jones (Undergraduate), Anna Albright (Undergraduate), Hannah Johansen (Undergraduate), Elioena Tiago (Undergraduate), Susanna Erwin (Undergraduate)

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) affects 6% of all pregnancies in the United States and Canada. Standard treatment recommendations for GDM include diet changes, exercise, and pharmaceutical methods. To better control GDM, it is necessary for nurses to educate expecting mothers on proper GDM management through exercise and dietary changes. Among patients with a diagnosis of GDM on a medical diet, we endeavored to explore how exercise [or 150 minutes of exercise a week] vs. no change in activity influences GDM management. A literature search using John-Hopkins appraisal tools to assess the quality and strength of our articles was performed. The articles gathered presented good and consistent evidence with a low level of risk. Research indicated prevention for GDM using exercise and avoiding poultry and livestock decreased the risk of developing GDM. This prevention decreased prenatal complications such as macrosomia, CPD and death. Additionally, starting exercise earlier in pregnancy and keeping exercise under 150 min/ week decreased the level of risk to the mother and baby while indicating positive results in the management of GDM. Furthermore, glucose control was found to be affected by various exercises, such as aerobic exercise, as well as routine healthcare check-ups and proper counseling. Ultimately, exercise routines with dietary changes have shown better GDM management and glycemic control compared to dietary changes alone. Based on our findings, women diagnosed with GDM should implement weekly exercises along with dietary modifications. Both diet and exercise are beneficial and important for the management of GDM, but results are not significant enough to recommend using them alone for the management of GDM. Our findings suggest a pilot of change to impact GDM management.

Effectiveness of a collaborative faculty development strategy in promoting scholarship among nursing faculty: A quantitative study

by Amanda Minor (Faculty), Dr. Anne Russell (Faculty), Dr. Chu-Yu Huang (Faculty)

Background: Faculty scholarship is crucial to setting a precedence of intellectual excellence for our respective professions, students, and colleagues. Scholarship at Cedarville University is a means to glorify God by enhancing the broader and deeper discourse of knowledge while promoting curiosity and critical reasoning. These skills encourage academic and professional development for faculty; the results of which then can be disseminated to our students and the community at large. Scholarly activities are an expectation of all Cedarville faculty, and therefore this process plays an integral role in faculty development. To promote and develop faculty participation in scholarly activities, a two-year SON initiative (Scholarship WIN Circle) was implemented in the 2022-2024 academic year. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to promote faculty scholarship in the School of Nursing (SON) and evaluate the effectiveness of the collaborative faculty development strategy in promoting faculty scholarship. Method: This pre-/post-test quantitative study evaluated a two-year School of Nursing (SON) Scholarship WIN Circle initiative (2022-2024), focused on faculty development in scholarly activities, team-building, and manuscript writing. Six nursing faculty members participated in weekly one-hour in-person sessions, with an end-of-semester writing immersion, facilitated by three faculty members. Participants completed an anonymous, 10-item, 4-point Likert scale survey via Qualtrics at the start (September 2022) and end (May 2024) of the initiative. The post-test survey also included open-ended questions about barriers, benefits, and recommendations for improvement. Results: The post-test results indicated improvements in nine out of the ten survey items, with all items scoring 3 or above (agree). "Time and conflicting meetings" were identified as the most frequently experienced barriers (n=3). The most frequently mentioned benefit of the initiative was teamwork (n=2). Two faculty members recommended longer meetings and the inclusion of online collaboration, while two others stated that the WIN Circle was executed extremely well and suggested no changes. Conclusion: Overall, the initiative was successful and impactful. Our recommendation would be to repeat the WIN Circle, implementing the suggestions from the post-survey.

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Protocol in Cesarean Section

by Jessica Nolten (Undergraduate), Abby Betz (Undergraduate), Meleahna Williams (Undergraduate), Daniel Battey (Undergraduate)

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Protocol (ERAS) has been implemented for many general surgical procedures. However there has been little implementation of this protocol in obstetric surgeries and cesarean deliveries. The goal of this literature review is to analyze evidence of improved postoperative outcomes in patients who have undergone cesarean sections. The literature has been reviewed to examine how the ERAS protocol decreases postoperative infection of surgical site, pain, deep vein thrombosis, postoperative nausea and vomiting, and length of stay. The articles were also reviewed to examine the positive impact of the ERAS protocol on maternal infant bonding, due to the protocol mimicking the experience a mother with a vaginal birth would experience. Implementation of the ERAS protocol increased normal outcomes in women who received cesarean sections. These studies included randomized controlled trials (RCTs), Quasi experimental studies, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, prospective cohort studies, and case studies. The ERAS protocol implements principles such as patient education, early ambulation, early urinary catheter removal, early diet initiation, intravenous fluids, preoperative antibiotics, multimodal analgesia, antiemetic medications, thromboembolism prophylaxis and ileus prevention using coffee and ice cream. The ERAS protocol has similar if not improved safety for the patient who underwent the Cesarean section. This literature review supports the implementation of the ERAS protocol in cesarean section surgeries on the basis of the evidence presented in these studies. Implementation of the ERAS protocol has a positive impact on postoperative outcomes in women who have undergone cesarean sections as through the postpartum period.

Vaccine Education Programs and Parental Trust: A Systematic Review

by Alexa Drews (Undergraduate), Sara Davis (Undergraduate), Makenna Brinkman (Undergraduate), Mackenzie Owen (Undergraduate)

Vaccine hesitancy among parents with young children often results in delayed immunization schedules, which increases the risk of preventable diseases. This Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) project explores whether formal education, as opposed to no education, can improve vaccination rates among previously hesitant parents. Current strategies for educating families about vaccines have not effectively addressed parental concerns or potential misinformation. This poses a significant need for a structured program tailored to hesitant parents that increases vaccine acceptance and trust in the Public Health System. The PICOT question examined: Among parents of young children, how do vaccination education programs compared to no education programs affect vaccination rates and trust in public health over one year? A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Elsevier, Proquest, and EBSCO using keywords such as vaccine hesitancy, childhood vaccination, parental attitudes towards vaccination, pediatric vaccination, and vaccine literacy. Ten studies were chosen to answer this EBP question including two RCTs, one quasi-experimental study, and seven qualitative studies appraised using the Johns Hopkins EBP model. These studies used various methods of experiment and education including in-person teaching, and interviews to gather data about this topic. Results of the study include the following: Educating community leaders can increase trust in public health. Vaccine hesitancy among parents of young children can lead to a delayed vaccine schedule, which is why education is important. Vaccine hesitancy has common themes that are amenable to education. Trust in the educator is important to changing vaccination rates. Findings support the use of structured education programs to increase vaccination compliance and reduce vaccine hesitancy by addressing common concerns. It is necessary that parents receive education to ensure their children can be well-equipped to fight diseases. Additionally, healthcare professionals and community members should also receive education to be well-prepared to educate the public. Given the strong evidence supporting structured vaccine education, healthcare systems should consider implementing programs into their clinics and care centers. This study posed a low risk for potential harm, so further research should explore the long-term impact of formal vaccine education and its effect on the healthcare system.

Sleep Better, Move More: The Impact of Physical Activity on Sleep

by Grace Hall (Undergraduate), Emily Eby (Undergraduate), Brittany Stotzfus (Undergraduate), Paige Clippinger (Undergraduate)

Physical exercise should be maintained regularly by all groups of people to maintain consistent sleep quality, mental stability, and overall well-being. Physical activity directly influences the body’s ability to tolerate stress, while stress levels have a direct influence on sleep quality. A decrease in stress levels due to physical activity comes from various factors, including better coping, increased oxygenation, lowered cortisol, and a direct impact of reduced or prevented emotional states such as anxiety or depression. Additionally, physical activity diminishes the need for pharmaceutical measurements promoting sleep. Regularly exercising adults who decrease their exercise levels experience reduced sleep quality within one week. Alternatively, resuming physical activity levels promotes sleep quality to its prior state. Concerning the occurrence and intensity of physical activity, regular physical activity in a low to moderate intensity range proves to provide a higher impact on sleep quality than spontaneous high- intensity physical activity. While changes in exercise intensity affect sleep quality outcomes, any physical exercise is recommended as variability not only lowers attrition rates in participants, but also allows personalization, individualization, and the inclusion of enjoyable activities such as sports. Maintenance of such physical exercise is recommended due to its direct effect on sleep quality, emotional regulation, and stress tolerance.

Routine Prenatal STI Testing: Evaluating the Effect on Infant and Maternal Outcomes

by Abigail Shedlock (Undergraduate), Elizabeth Lukinovich (Undergraduate), Paige Shepherd (Undergraduate), Emily Vanek (Undergraduate), 

Sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing in pregnant mothers has correlated positively with beneficial fetal outcomes. This study utilized a systematic review approach alongside interviews from RNs. This paper assesses the importance of pregnant women being screened for STIs. The results showed that women who had STI screenings while pregnant had significantly better outcomes for the mother and child. If these women did have STIs, then they were able to be treated and, as a result, improve maternal and fetal outcomes. Education of STI screenings proved to be necessary to pregnant mothers, and the earlier the OB/Gyn () diagnoses it, the better the outcomes. Pregnancy centers and public departments are beneficial resources for mothers who may be uninsured, which helps cover costs of some STI screenings. The research population included different ethnicities, minorities, and social classes. This paper will also suggest some future outcomes for pregnant women having more frequent STI screenings in the future. Further research opportunities with pregnant women with STIs will also be identified and examined.

Keywords: compliance, minorities, maternal health, infant outcomes, STI screening/testing, access to care, prenatal care, prevention, pregnancy crisis centers, standardized care.

Informed Immunity: Overcoming Hesitancy with Evidence

by Emma Roggie (Undergraduate), Kendra O'Connell (Undergraduate), Laura Dykstra (Undergraduate), Leonela Padilla (Undergraduate)

This study investigates the effect of vaccination education programs on vaccination rates and vaccine status among parents of young children. We utilized a literature review approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative analysis to survey parents and health professionals regarding vaccination programs and vaccine rates as well as examining randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the effectiveness of these programs in communities. The findings reveal that there is a lack of education and lack of awareness that contribute to vaccine status, a mistrust in the healthcare system and recommended vaccines creates trust barriers that influence education, and education programs designed to address vaccine barriers are needed. Factors such as access to healthcare, peer pressure, information access, and socioeconomic status also influence vaccine decisions. These results highlight the need for education programs designed to address vaccine barriers and increase vaccination rates.

Preeclampsia: Delayed vs. Prompt Treatment

by Grace Anderson (Undergraduate), Reese Snavely (Undergraduate), Brianna Richey (Undergraduate), Maddie McConnell (Undergraduate)

This literature review examines information available and studies done relating to preeclampsia and its lasting effects throughout the postpartum period. The rationale behind this research is the fact that few studies and interventions have been carried out regarding the long-term effects of preeclampsia, specifically the differences in outcomes between prompt treatment compared to delayed treatment of this widespread, serious disease. The question this literature review is looking to answer is as follows: In pregnant women with third-trimester preeclampsia, how does the initiation of preeclampsia treatment at a delayed stage, compared to prompt treatment, affect the risk of maternal and fetal complications from the time of diagnosis to six weeks postpartum? For this study, the databases majorly utilized include PubMed and EBSCO. The Johns Hopkins method for leveling evidence and appraising articles was used for each article included in the research. The results discovered through this research study are as follows: First, medication use during pregnancy varies and can change based on the stage of the diagnosis (early or late). That is, labetalol is used specifically for hypertension, aspirin is used when there is early detection of preeclampsia, and magnesium sulfate is used specifically for preeclamptic seizure prevention. Furthermore, no ACE inhibitors or ARBs are safe for use during pregnancy or for preeclampsia treatment. Secondly, preeclampsia has long-term consequences, including chronic hypertension, CKD, and major complications affecting the cardiovascular system, the liver, and the kidneys. Finally, identifying risk factors like prior preeclampsia, chronic hypertension, diabetes, advanced maternal age, and nulliparity enables prompt treatment and improves overall safety and outcomes for both the mother and the baby.

"Changing Pain into Play: How VR is Changing Pediatric Care"

by Emmah Bagin (Undergraduate), Raegan Howdyshell (Undergraduate), Alyssa Krieder (Undergraduate), Elena Hatfield (Undergraduate)

Pediatric patients often experience anxiety and pain during medical procedures, Virtual Reality (VR) is a new intervention that can provide distraction for patients during operations. Virtual reality can also be used as an exposure tool for patients before their procedure and is an affordable and cost-effective non-pharmacologic intervention used to distract the brain. Although it is a relatively new method of distraction, it has proved useful in many scenarios, and studies have shown there are minimal safety concerns. This study explores the effectiveness of VR as an intervention for pain and anxiety management during needle sticks, dressing changes, surgery, and several other procedures, in pediatric patients compared to other standard distraction techniques.

Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy for Generalized Anxiety Patients

by Katelyn Halter (Undergraduate), Anna Garrett (Undergraduate), Kaylene Lunt (Undergraduate), Lindsey Linker (Undergraduate)

Introduction: Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy is a newly researched and growing form of treatment for anxiety disorders. Purpose: This review of literature focuses on published research articles that compare Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and their effectiveness on adults with generalized anxiety disorders (GAD). Methods: The online database called PubMed was used to research articles from the past 10 years by searching keywords related to Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder treatments. These searches were then used to compare the benefits of each in relation to anxiety symptoms. Data was collected from these articles and analyzed to fit the study. Results: The evidence from the research showed positive results in Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy for adults with Generalized Anxiety Disorder. The evidence consistently showed that VRET and CBT work best in conjunction with each other than only VRET. The evidence also consistently showed that VRET is more feasible for therapists to incorporate into therapy than in vivo exposure. However, it was not proven that VRET in conjunction with CBT would be more effective than CBT alone and requires more studies to confirm how long its benefits last. Conclusion: According to the research, it is recommended for those with anxiety to combine both CBT and VRET under the watch of a therapist, along with checkups and continued therapy. More research is needed to confirm the lasting benefits or risks of this specific type of therapy for adults with GAD.

Physical Activity on Stress and Mental Well-being

by Annika Wilson (Undergraduate), Lydia Trosdal (Undergraduate), Ella Ward (Undergraduate), Evan Sampson (Undergraduate)

College students often experience high-stress levels, which can negatively affect their mental well-being. Stress tends to be a recurring problem as college students manage academic, financial, social, and other demands. Exercise is a potential option for alleviating stress and improving mental health. This research examines how regular physical activity programs, compared to no structured physical activity, influence stress reduction and overall mental well- being in college students. Using literature searches through accredited online databases and appraisal methods per Johns Hopkins guidelines, we found that physical activity helps decrease stress levels and improve mental well-being. The amount of time required to reduce stress varies across studies. Most studies relied on self-reported measures of exercise, stress levels, and quality of life. Furthermore, various exercise strategies can mitigate common motivation barriers among the highly stressed. Based on the best available evidence, further investigation or a pilot of change is recommended to determine the most effective exercise structures for stress management and mental well-being.

In College Aged Students is Physical Activity or Mindfulness a More Effective Intervention to Relieve Stress

by Alex Moeggenberg (Undergraduate), Ben Prokes (Undergraduate), Carter Halfmann (Undergraduate), Kyra Chinemilly (Undergraduate), Benjamin Beckley (Undergraduate)

This evidence-based practice project explored the relative effectiveness of physical activity and mindfulness-based interventions in reducing stress among college aged students. A synthesis of findings from studies at various evidence levels revealed that both interventions significantly reduce stress levels, negative emotions, and emotional distress in this population. Physical activity was consistently associated with lowered stress hormones and enhanced emotional resilience, while mindfulness-based interventions, such as yoga and meditation, demonstrated efficacy in promoting relaxation and mental focus to alleviate stress. Despite the strength and relevance of the evidence supporting each approach, a direct comparison between the two interventions remains limited, with only one pilot study addressing this gap. Additional inconsistencies were noted in methodologies, such as differences in data collection techniques (e.g., experimental versus survey-based studies) and cultural variations across the study populations. These factors suggest a need for cautious interpretation and further investigation. Nonetheless, the evidence supports the recommendation to integrate either physical activity or mindfulness-based practices into stress reduction programs for college aged students. A combination of these approaches may yield even greater benefits, and future research directly comparing their effects is warranted to establish best practices.

The Efficacy of Telehealth vs In-Person Services with Diabetic Patients in Rural Communities

by Zoe Ames (Undergraduate), Rosemary Carman (Undergraduate), Kaela Wurster (Undergraduate), Hannah Yeazel (Undergraduate)

Nearly 10% of adults in rural communities are diagnosed with diabetes compared to about 8% of adults in urban communities. Comparatively, there is a higher prevalence of diabetic patients in rural communities making this an important focus. Given this reality, various modes of diabetic care must be considered to improve access in rural communities. This research project aims to address how telehealth services compared to in-person services impact the access to care for diabetic patients in rural communities. To answer the research question, a literature review was conducted with the John-Hopkins appraisal tools to evaluate article quality and credibility. This literature review illustrated the importance and benefits of telehealth services in improving access to care for diabetic patients in rural communities. The results from the literature review suggested that telehealth improves glycemic control and decreases HbA1c levels; telehealth gives rural and low-income communities better access to healthcare; telehealth has improved patient education, treatment adherence, and overall disease management in patients with diabetes; and telehealth offers more affordable care to a wide population of patients with diabetes. In future research and studies, improvement in personalized care, overall access to technology, and the public’s ability to use technology need to be evaluated in the context of telehealth services.

A Literature Review of Preeclampsia: Comparing Early Diagnosis and Intervention to Standard Hypertension Management

by Audrianna Enns (Undergraduate), Elizabeth Thomson (Undergraduate), Anna Armani (Undergraduate), Abigail Atkins (Undergraduate)

Preeclampsia is the precursor to a very serious, life threatening condition called eclampsia, which can lead to seizure and death. Preeclampsia is classically characterized by gestational hypertension with a systolic pressure of at least 140 and greater than a diastolic pressure of 90 on a minimum of two consecutive occasions that are more than four hours apart. There are many things, including lifestyle, health history, and family history that can help identify patients at increased risk for developing preeclampsia. Identifying risk factors and implementing early intervention greatly reduces the probability of developing preeclampsia and therefore reduces risk to the fetus and mother during pregnancy and birth. This literature review aims to show how modifying risk factors and implementing early intervention and management programs compared to standard hypertension management affect the maternal mortality rates over the duration of pregnancy.

Empowering Nurses Through Braden Scale Education: Enhancing Patient Outcomes and Pressure Injury Prevention

by Dr. Ruth Mosher (Faculty), Karyn Temple (Faculty - Kettering Health)

Introduction: Pressure injuries remain a significant challenge in patient care settings, affecting patient outcomes and quality of life. The Braden Scale is a validated, widely accepted risk assessment tool, yet many nurses report inconsistencies in interpretation and application. Our proposed educational poster, “Empowering Nurses Through Braden Scale Education: Enhancing Patient Outcomes Through Evidence-Based Assessment,” aims to address this critical need in nursing practice. The poster will serve as a comprehensive educational tool to enhance nursing competence and confidence in application of the Braden Scale for pressure injury risk assessment effectively. Target Audience: The poster will target a diverse audience including nurses of all experience levels, in the clinical setting, including the intensive care units, nursing students, nurse educators, unit managers, and quality improvement specialists. Our goal is to create an engaging visual resource that enhances knowledge, builds competence and confidence, and ultimately improves patient outcomes through better pressure injury prevention. Methods: The poster content will be structured in five key areas; Understanding the Braden Scale, Evidence-Based Impact, Educational Intervention Methods, Implementation Strategies and Prevention Interventions Matched to Risk Levels. Beginning with an explanation of the Braden Scale’s six subscales (sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction/shear), aligned with a visual scoring guide that provides clinical examples for each subscale. This section will also address common assessment difficulties and strategies to avoid them. The second section will provide compelling statistics comparing prevention versus treatment modalities. Third, we’ll outline teaching strategies, best-practice documentation and link additional digital educational resources related to pressure injury prevention. In the fourth section we will share practical application methods to bridge the gap between knowledge acquisition and clinical practice. Last, we will share prevention interventions matched with risk levels, guidance on appropriate product selection and teaching strategies for patients and families. Expected Outcomes: We anticipate this educational intervention will result in an improvement in Braden Scale assessment accuracy, a reduction in hospital-acquired pressure injuries, increased nursing confidence in risk assessment, and enhanced interdisciplinary communication. Evaluation Methods: We will include pre/post knowledge assessments, a three-month follow-up on pressure injury incidence rates, nursing satisfaction surveys, and chart audits for documentation compliance.

The Effects of Resistance and Aerobic Exercise on Mental Well-Being in Young Adults

by Grace Crowell (Undergraduate), Ariana Castle (Undergraduate), Lillian Slone (Undergraduate), MicahSetness (Undergraduate), Abigael VandenHoek (Undergraduate)

This study examines the impact of resistance exercise training and aerobic exercise training on the mental well-being of young adults. The young adult age group has the highest incidence of experiencing negative mental well-being symptoms. Using a literature review and John’s Hopkins appraisal tools, we reviewed ten research articles combining experimental studies, quasi-experimental studies, non-experimental qualitative studies, and other reviews. We found consistent results. Both aerobic exercise and resistance exercise training improve mental health symptoms. Time varies between aerobic exercise and resistance training for maximum impact on mental health symptoms. Barriers to both resistance and aerobic exercise may be relevant to pre-existing mental health. Because we have good and consistent evidence with low level of risk, we recommend a pilot of change using resistant and aerobic exercise to improve mental well-being among young adults. In conclusion, the research findings suggest that there is a positive correlation between both resistance exercise training and aerobic exercise training and its effects on mental well-being in young adults.