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Hamilton JB, Abiri A, Nicolas CA, Grant EJ, Best NC. Black Appalachia's Oldest Old: Untold Stories of Experienced Racism and Coping With Religious Practices/Beliefs. Gerontologist 2024; 64:gnad143. [PMID: 37875131 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnad143] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Racism and religion are recognized as prevailing Social Determinants of Health (SDoH). To explore ways in which racism and religion looms in the daily lives of African Americans, we analyzed the experiences of African Americans born during the Jim Crow years and living in the Southern Appalachian Region of the United States. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Twenty-seven African Americans participated in this qualitative descriptive study that utilized criterion sampling, open-ended semistructured interviews, and content analysis to identify a typology of categories related to experienced racism and ways in which religion was used in response to those experiences. RESULTS Participants were an average age of 82.22 years (SD = 5.07); primarily women (n = 19, 70.4%); married (n = 11, 40.7%); junior high school (n = 6, 22.2%), high school or general educational diploma (n = 7, 25.9%), completed college or professional school (n = 6, 22.2%); were retired (n = 27, 100.0%); and affiliated with Baptist churches (n = 18, 66.7%). Experiences with racism included inequities in healthcare and education, and racially motivated physical violence. Religious practices/beliefs included forgiveness, humility, and humanity. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Racism experienced by African American participants was likely countered by religious practices/beliefs inspired through intergenerational teachings with affiliations to the Black Church. These experiences of the oldest old ) African Americans living in communities of the Southern Appalachia, United States, illustrate the pervasive nature of racism. The religious beliefs that are frequently transmitted intergenerationally through the Black Church are relevant to understand present-day encounters with racism among African Americans and possibly other communities of color.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill B Hamilton
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Autherine Abiri
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Charlyne A Nicolas
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Ernest J Grant
- School of Nursing, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nakia C Best
- Sue and Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
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Best NC, Donahue E, Agran PF, Munk K, Rochelle NF, Billimek J. Exploration of California School Nurse perspectives on the impact of COVID-19. Public Health Nurs 2023; 40:394-403. [PMID: 36880197 PMCID: PMC10164127 DOI: 10.1111/phn.13182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore in a sample of school nurses (SN) in California the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on school nurse health services, how school nurses mitigated the impact of COVID-19, and moral distress levels among school nurses. DESIGN AND METHODS Nineteen (N = 19) school nurses who work in K-12 schools in California, USA participated in a mixed-methods approach involving qualitative descriptive design, inductive content analysis, and descriptive statistics. Interviews were conducted in August and September 2021. RESULTS Five themes emerged: (1) role of the SN during the COVID-19 pandemic, (2) coordination with school administration, (3) COVID-19 related challenges and disruptions to care, (4) moral distress, and (5) coping during the pandemic. CONCLUSION The pandemic had a profound impact on school nurses. This study provides school nurse perspectives of the impact of COVID-19 on services they delivered, the unique skills of school nurses essential to mitigation strategies, and moral distress school nurses encountered during the pandemic. Understanding the important role school nurses had during the pandemic is paramount to fully contextualize the contributions they made within public health nursing practice and inform preparedness for future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nakia C. Best
- Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Eden Donahue
- School Nurses of California Foundation, Newport Beach, California
- California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Arcata, California
| | - Phyllis F. Agran
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Kirsten Munk
- School Nurses of California Foundation, Newport Beach, California
- California State University, Sacramento, Sacramento, California
| | - Na’imah F. Rochelle
- Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - John Billimek
- Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California
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McCabe EM, Best NC. The Significance of Social Development Support in Schools: The Critical Role of School Nurses. NASN Sch Nurse 2023; 38:62-64. [PMID: 36214099 DOI: 10.1177/1942602x221128227] [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] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
The growth of social development entails a progression where youth learn to interact with those around them. This manuscript provides interventions school nurses may use to incorporate social development into their daily practice and interactions with students. Social-emotional skills are pivotal to children's and adolescents' health, well-being, and academic success. Healthy social development can lead to improved self-confidence and better social relationships and have long-term benefits into adulthood. There is still much to learn about how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the social development of children and adolescents. Nevertheless, school personnel, including the school nurse, must collaborate to support students, families, and each other to cultivate an environment that connects social development with education, health, and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen M McCabe
- Clinical Assistant Professor, New York University, New York City, NY
| | - Nakia C Best
- Assistant Professor, University of California, Irvine, CA
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Best NC, McCabe EM. Learning from the Past and Moving Forward: Implementing School Nursing Research Priorities. J Sch Nurs 2023; 39:3-5. [PMID: 36519203 DOI: 10.1177/10598405221143495] [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] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The editorial "School nursing research and research implementation priorities," highlights how the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) research priorities are crucial to moving school nursing and school health research forward. In this editorial we echo the importance of school nurses reading and understanding published articles in The Journal of School Nursing and contributing to research that informs school nursing practice. Each of the NASNs research priorities is vital to the science supporting school nursing practice. We encourage school nurses and researchers, and implementation scientists to partner to contribute school nursing evidence that guides the specialties' practice and informs policy to positively impact student health and education outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nakia C Best
- 8788University of California, Irvine, Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Ellen M McCabe
- 5894New York University, Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York, NY, USA
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Hamilton JB, Best NC, Barney TA, Worthy VC, Phillips NR. Using Spirituality to Cope with COVID-19: the Experiences of African American Breast Cancer Survivors. J Cancer Educ 2022; 37:1422-1428. [PMID: 33595772 PMCID: PMC7886845 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-021-01974-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
African American women with breast cancer generally rely on their spirituality to cope with psychosocial issues encountered during survivorship. However, in order to mitigate the risk of contracting COVID-19, a potentially deadly disease, it is imperative that community-dwelling older adults physically distance themselves from supportive family, friends, and even traditional faith-based activities. In this report, we explore the ways in which spirituality was used to manage stressors during this pandemic. This is a qualitative descriptive study with content analysis of data from the narratives from 18 African American breast cancer survivors. Participants were interviewed via phone and video conferencing platform and asked to respond to questions of strategies used to manage stressors encountered during this COVID-19 pandemic. Spirituality enabled African American breast cancer survivors to better manage their psychological distress through (1) increased engagement in religious activities; (2) reliance on God for protection when fearful, feeling isolated, and in need of assistance to pay household bills; (3) finding joy and courage from listening to gospel music and reading scripture; and (4) finding meaning through spirituality. These findings suggest that in spite of physical distancing requirements that impose limited access to faith-based institutions during this COVID-19 pandemic, spirituality continues to be a supportive resource to manage emotional stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill B Hamilton
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
- Candler School of Theology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30033, USA.
| | - Nakia C Best
- Irvine, Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Tara A Barney
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
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Best NC, Nichols AO, Pierre-Louis B, Hernandez J. Exploration of Factors Associated with Reported Medication Administration Errors in North Carolina Public School Districts. J Sch Nurs 2022:10598405221127453. [PMID: 36131393 DOI: 10.1177/10598405221127453] [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] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
School nurses are pivotal to the safety of school-aged children, particularly those who receive medications in the school setting. The purpose of this study was to explore factors associated with medication administration errors in North Carolina school districts between 2012/2013 and 2017/2018. A longitudinal study using repeated measures analysis of school health services data collected in the North Carolina Annual School Health Services and Programs Survey was conducted. Over time, the number of medication errors (p = .001) and number of medication corrective action plans (p < .0001) trended upwards. There was also an increase in medication errors when the number of schools in a district was higher (p < .0001). Conversely, there was a decrease in corrective action plans when school nurses were directly employed by the school district (p = .0471). We implore school disticts to consider the important role of school nurses to keep kids safe, healthy, and ready to learn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nakia C Best
- Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, The 8788University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Ann O Nichols
- Retd., Division of Public Health, Children & Youth Branch, NC Department of Health & Human Services, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | | | - Jessica Hernandez
- Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, The 8788University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
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Best NC, Nichols AO, Waller AE, Zomorodi M, Pierre-Louis B, Oppewal S, Travers D. Impact of School Nurse Ratios and Health Services on Selected Student Health and Education Outcomes: North Carolina, 2011-2016. J Sch Health 2021; 91:473-481. [PMID: 33843082 DOI: 10.1111/josh.13025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Determination of adequate school nurse staffing is a complex process. School nurse-to-student ratios and the health services school nurses provide to students should be considered. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of North Carolina school nurse-to-student ratios and school nurse health services on the health and education outcomes (eg, absences, grades, self-management) of students receiving services for asthma and diabetes. METHODS This study of all 115 school districts in North Carolina used the Annual School Health Services Report Survey from 2011 to 2016. Descriptive statistics for health services, programs and outcomes, and generalized linear modeling were used to estimate the association of ratios and health services with asthma and diabetes outcomes. RESULTS By the 2015-2016 school year, the average ratio decreased to 1:1086 in North Carolina public schools. Annually, 100,187 students received services for asthma, 3832 students received services for type 1 diabetes, and 913 students received services for type 2 diabetes. Lower ratios and nurse health services were associated with improved student outcomes, including decreased absences (p = .05), improved grades (p = .05), and student self-management of their health condition (p = .05). CONCLUSIONS Lower school nurse-to-student ratios and services were associated with improvements in students' health and education outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nakia C Best
- Assistant Professor, , Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine, 106B Berk Hall Mail Code 3959, Irvine, CA, 92697., USA
| | - Ann O Nichols
- State School Health Nurse Consultant, , Division of Public Health, NC Department of Health and Human Services, 1928 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC, 27699., USA
| | - Anna E Waller
- Executive Director & Research Professor, , Carolina Center for Health Informatics, Department of Emergency Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 100 Market Street, Chapel Hill, NC, 27516., USA
| | - Meg Zomorodi
- Assistant Provost for Interprofessional Education and Practice & Professor, , Office of Interprofessional Education and Practice & School of Nursing, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carrington Hall CB 7460, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599., USA
| | | | - Sonda Oppewal
- Professor, , School of Nursing, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carrington Hall CB 7460, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599., USA
| | - Debbie Travers
- Associate Consulting Professor, , School of Nursing, Duke University, 307 Trent Drive, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
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Miller TN, Matthie N, Best NC, Price MA, Hamilton JB. Intergenerational Influences on Faith-based Strategies Used in Response to Racial Discrimination Among Young African American Adults. J Natl Med Assoc 2020; 112:176-185. [PMID: 32178886 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnma.2020.02.005] [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: 07/27/2019] [Revised: 01/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this report, we used a qualitative descriptive design to explore young African American adults' intergenerationally influenced strategies to experienced racial discrimination. METHODS The study was guided by a qualitative descriptive design using criterion and snowball sampling, and semi-structured interview questions. We also explored, quantitatively, gender differences among the racial discrimination experiences encountered and the strategies used. FINDINGS Forty-nine participants included in this report were an average age of 29.5 (SD = 10.1). Racial discrimination experiences included daily microaggressions such as insensitive comments, stereotyping, exclusion from work and school activities, perceived low expectations, inequities in employment, and police profiling. Intergenerationally influenced strategies used in response to these experiences included religious beliefs and practices, positive reframing, and modeling behaviors used by previous generations. These intergenerationally influenced strategies enabled participants to remain calm, to express goodwill toward others, and to be patient and hopeful for a better future. CONCLUSION Since intergenerationally influenced strategies are likely potential sources of strength and resilience for young African Americans, knowledge of these strategies might be useful to health care practitioners seeking to improve the mental health care of this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor N Miller
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Nadine Matthie
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Nakia C Best
- University of California, Irvine Sue and Bill Gross School of Nursing, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Michael A Price
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Jill B Hamilton
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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Best NC, Nichols AO, Oppewal S, Pierre-Louis B, Waller AE, Zomorodi M, Travers D. An Appraisal of School Nurse Health Services and Programs in North Carolina Public Schools, 2006-2016. J Sch Nurs 2020; 37:146-156. [PMID: 31960745 DOI: 10.1177/1059840519899439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
School nurses are instrumental in delivering health services to children in schools. This study addresses the gap in school nurse health services data, examining patterns in health services and programs provided by school nurses between 2006 and 2016 for students in North Carolina public schools. This study focused on services and programs related to asthma and diabetes, two health conditions that affect millions of children in the United States. Over 1.46 million children attend North Carolina public schools. In 2006, the average school nurse-to-student ratio was 1:1,340. By 2016, the average school nurse-to-student ratio decreased to 1:1,086, a 19% improvement. Over the 10-year study time period, there were statistically significant increases in the rate of occurrence of all health conditions that students received health services for (p < .001), asthma (p < .001), type I diabetes (p = .0003), orders for all health-care procedures (p = .01), all school nurse-led health counseling (p = .004), and diabetes health counseling (p < .01).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nakia C Best
- Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, 8788The University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Ann O Nichols
- Children and Youth Branch, Division of Public Health, NC Department of Health and Human Services, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Sonda Oppewal
- School of Nursing, 446733University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Bosny Pierre-Louis
- School of Nursing, 446733University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Anna E Waller
- Carolina Center for Health Informatics, Department of Emergency Medicine, 2331University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Meg Zomorodi
- School of Nursing, 446733University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,Office of Interprofessional Education and Practice, 2331University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Debbie Travers
- School of Nursing, 446733University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Best NC, Oppewal S, Travers D. Response to Letter to the Editor for "Exploring School Nurse Interventions and Health and Education Outcomes: An Integrative Review". J Sch Nurs 2018; 34:343. [PMID: 30045655 DOI: 10.1177/1059840518791230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Abstract
School nurses intervene with students, parents, and school staff to advance the health and academic success of students. We conducted an integrative literature review of published research to describe the types of school nurse interventions and health and education outcome measures and to examine how school nurse interventions were linked to student outcomes. Sixty-five studies met the inclusion criteria. We used the National Association of School Nurses' Framework for 21st Century School Nursing Practice to categorize school nurse interventions and health and education outcome measures. The majority of interventions were categorized under the care coordination principle, most commonly, motivational interviewing and counseling. In 17 studies, school nurse interventions were linked to improved student outcomes. Most studies (80%) were descriptive. To advance school nursing science, researchers can build on this foundation with more rigorous research methods to evaluate the impact of school nurse interventions and activities on student health and education outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nakia C Best
- 1 School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,2 School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, USA
| | - Sonda Oppewal
- 1 School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Debbie Travers
- 1 School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Hamilton JB, Worthy VC, Moore AD, Best NC, Stewart JM, Song MK. Messages of Hope: Helping Family Members to Overcome Fears and Fatalistic Attitudes Toward Cancer. J Cancer Educ 2017; 32:190-197. [PMID: 26314571 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-015-0895-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
This qualitative study explored strategies family members of African-American cancer patients used to overcome their fears and fatalistic attitudes toward cancer. Twenty-four family members were recruited through criterion purposeful sampling. Data were collected and analyzed using open-ended interviews and thematic analysis. Fears and fatalistic attitudes could be traced to personal experiences with cancer and information being communicated within their networks. Strategies used to overcome fears and fatalistic attitudes toward cancer included an awareness of advances in cancer treatments, information obtained from their health-care providers, and faith in God. Family members supported the patient through efforts of encouraging them to talk about what they were going through, to be strong, to maintain a positive environment and normalcy, and to use spirituality as a source of strength. Family members also suggested that health-care providers and researchers tailor intervention studies to consider that the patient is a part of a larger family system and that the entire family needs support to overcome long-held fears and fatalistic attitudes toward cancer. These findings suggest that despite advances in cancer care and widespread media coverage to change perceptions about cancer, fears and fatalistic attitudes toward cancer persist and likely influence the family members' ability to optimally support the cancer patient. At the time of diagnosis, both patient and the entire family unit should be educated of advances in cancer care, that cancer is no longer a death sentence, and supported to overcome fears and fatalistic attitudes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill B Hamilton
- Department of Community-Public Health, School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, 525 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | | | - Angelo D Moore
- Moore & Moore Healthcare Consulting, LLC., P.O. Box 48852, Cumberland, NC, 28331, USA
| | - Nakia C Best
- School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carrington Hall, CB #7460, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Jennifer M Stewart
- Department of Community-Public Health, School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, 525 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Mi-Kyung Song
- School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carrington Hall, CB #7460, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
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Hamilton JB, Stewart JM, Thompson K, Alvarez C, Best NC, Amoah K, Carlton-LaNey IB. Younger African American Adults' Use of Religious Songs to Manage Stressful Life Events. J Relig Health 2017; 56:329-344. [PMID: 27464642 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-016-0288-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to explore the use of religious songs in response to stressful life events among young African American adults. Fifty-five young African American adults aged 18-49 participated in a qualitative study involving criterion sampling and open-ended interviews. Data analysis included content analysis and descriptive statistics. Stressful life events were related to work or school; caregiving and death of a family member; and relationships. Religious songs represented five categories: Instructive, Communication with God, Thanksgiving and Praise, Memory of Forefathers, and Life after Death. The tradition of using religious songs in response to stressful life events continues among these young adults. Incorporating religious songs into health-promoting interventions might enhance their cultural relevance to this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill B Hamilton
- Department of Community and Public Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, 525 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Jennifer M Stewart
- Department of Community and Public Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, 525 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Keitra Thompson
- Department of Community and Public Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, 525 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Carmen Alvarez
- Department of Community and Public Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, 525 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Nakia C Best
- School of Nursing, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27510, USA
| | - Kevin Amoah
- Department of Biology, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC, 27707, USA
| | - Iris B Carlton-LaNey
- School of Social Work, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27510, USA
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14
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Hamilton JB, Best NC, Galbraith KV, Worthy VC, Moore LTCAD. Strategies African-American Cancer Survivors Use to Overcome Fears and Fatalistic Attitudes. J Cancer Educ 2015; 30:629-635. [PMID: 25266472 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-014-0738-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
This qualitative study explored strategies African-American cancer survivors use to overcome their fears and fatalistic attitudes toward cancer at the point of diagnosis through completion of treatment. Thirty-one African-American cancer survivors who had completed or nearly completed treatment were recruited through criterion purposeful sampling. In-depth, open-ended interviews were used to collect data. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Of the 31 survivors interviewed, 26 reported being fearful of cancer and believed that cancer would result in death. These cancer survivors were particularly fearful of having a cancer had spread, of being isolated, and performing less effectively at work. Strategies used to overcome these fears included increasing their own awareness about cancer, using positive self-talk, and avoiding negative people. The findings suggest that past experiences continue to influence fears and fatalistic perspectives about cancer and that educational resources to inform the public about cancer may be ignored until there is a confirmed diagnosis of cancer. Televised news broadcasts of high-profile personalities who had died from cancer were also anxiety provoking, particularly if the cancer survivor died of a recurrence from cancer. Prevalent sources of information and support for these survivors were family members or close friends they trusted with personal information, perceived as strong, or experienced in the care of other cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill B Hamilton
- Department of Community-Public Health, School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, 525 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Nakia C Best
- School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carrington Hall, CB #7460, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Kayoll V Galbraith
- School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carrington Hall, CB #7460, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | | | - L T C Angelo D Moore
- Center for Nursing Science and Clinical Inquiry, Womack Army Medical Center, U.S. Army, 2817 Reilly Road, Fort Bragg, NC, USA
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Hamilton JB, Galbraith KV, Best NC, Worthy VC, Moore LTCAD. African-American Cancer Survivors' Use of Religious Beliefs to Positively Influence the Utilization of Cancer Care. J Relig Health 2015; 54:1856-69. [PMID: 25269756 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-014-9948-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Among African-Americans, religion impacts health-seeking behaviors. This qualitative study used criterion purposeful sampling and thematic analysis in analysis of data from 31 African-American cancer patients to understand the influence of religion on the utilization of cancer care services. Our findings suggest that religious beliefs and practices positively influenced attitudes toward their illness and ability to endure treatment. God's ability to heal and cure, God's control over survival, God's will over their lives, and God's promise for health and prosperity were examples of survivor's religious beliefs. Religious practices such as prayer promoted a trusting relationship with healthcare providers and were a source of strength and encouragement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill B Hamilton
- Department of Community-Public Health, School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, 525 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA,
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Hamilton JB, Best NC, Galbraith KV, Worthy VC, Moore AD. Erratum to: Strategies African-American Cancer Survivors Use to Overcome Fears and Fatalistic Attitudes. J Cancer Educ 2015; 30:204. [PMID: 25510365 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-014-0763-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jill B Hamilton
- Department of Community-Public Health, School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, 525 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA,
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Hamilton JB, Deal AM, Moore AD, Best NC, Galbraith KV, Muss H. Psychosocial predictors of depression among older African American patients with cancer. Oncol Nurs Forum 2014; 40:394-402. [PMID: 23803271 DOI: 10.1188/13.onf.394-402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES To determine whether psychosocial factors predict depression among older African American patients with cancer. DESIGN A descriptive correlational study. SETTING Outpatient oncology clinic of a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center in the southeastern United States. SAMPLE African American patients with cancer aged 50-88 years. METHODS Fisher's exact and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were used to evaluate differences between patients who were possibly depressed (Geriatric Depression Scale) or not. Multivariate linear regression statistics were used to identify the psychosocial factors that predicted higher depression scores. Education and gender were included as covariates. MAIN RESEARCH VARIABLES Religiosity, emotional support, collectivism, perceived stigma, and depression. FINDINGS Participants (N = 77) had a mean age of 61 years (SD = 8.4), and a majority were well-educated, insured, religiously affiliated, and currently in treatment. Participants who were in the lowest income category, not married, or male had higher depression scores. The multivariable model consisting of organized religion, emotional support, collectivism, education, and gender explained 52% (adjusted R2) of the variation in depression scores. Stigma became insignificant in the multivariable model. CONCLUSIONS Psychosocial factors are important predictors of depression. Emotional support and organized religious activities may represent protective factors against depression, whereas collectivism may increase their risk. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING Nurses need to be particularly aware of the potential psychological strain for patients with collectivist values, experienced stigma, disruptions in church attendance, and lack of emotional support. In addition, the treatment plans for these patients should ensure that family members are knowledgeable about cancer, its treatment, and side effects so they are empowered to meet support needs. KNOWLEDGE TRANSLATION Among older African American patients with cancer, emotional support and reassurance from family and friends that they will not abandon them decreases the likelihood of depressive symptoms and minimizes the impact of stigmatizing responses, but the perception that the illness is placing a strain on the family increases the likelihood of such symptoms. Emotional support likely is a stronger predictor of depressive symptoms than religious service attendance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill B Hamilton
- School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA.
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Travers D, Haas SW, Waller AE, Schwartz TA, Mostafa J, Best NC, Crouch J. Implementation of Emergency Medical Text Classifier for syndromic surveillance. AMIA Annu Symp Proc 2013; 2013:1365-74. [PMID: 24551413 PMCID: PMC3900151] [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] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Public health officials use syndromic surveillance systems to facilitate early detection and response to infectious disease outbreaks. Emergency department clinical notes are becoming more available for surveillance but present the challenge of accurately extracting concepts from these text data. The purpose of this study was to implement a new system, Emergency Medical Text Classifier (EMT-C), into daily production for syndromic surveillance and evaluate system performance and user satisfaction. The system was designed to meet user preferences for a syndromic classifier that maximized positive predictive value and minimized false positives in order to provide a manageable workload. EMT-C performed better than the baseline system on all metrics and users were slightly more satisfied with it. It is vital to obtain user input and test new systems in the production environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debbie Travers
- Schools of Nursing, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC ; Medicine/Emergency Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Stephanie W Haas
- Information and Library Science, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Anna E Waller
- Medicine/Emergency Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Todd A Schwartz
- Schools of Nursing, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC ; Public Health/Biostatistics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Javed Mostafa
- Information and Library Science, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Nakia C Best
- Schools of Nursing, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - John Crouch
- Schools of Nursing, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC ; Medicine/Emergency Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
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