Authors:Susan Witte, Rogerio M. Pinto, Prema Filippone, C. Jean Choi, Melanie Wall Pages: 1 - 14 Abstract: Introduction: HIV continuum of care consists of five steps needed to effectively treat and prevent the spread of HIV. Linkage to and retention of patients to this Continuum of Care is a global priority. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the quality of this Continuum, as people living with HIV, have had to shelter reducing their access to services. As well, HIV agencies have had to close, reduce hours, and shift personnel. Purpose and Methods: The purpose of this descriptive cross-sectional study was to examine the person-centered referral-making behaviors and patterns used by providers to engage patients in the care continuum. Three classes of linkage behaviors among 285 providers in 34 community agencies in New York City were identified using latent class analysis. Results: These linkage behaviors include High (48%); Moderate (34%); and Low (18%). Both High and Moderate consisted of a blend of active and passive strategies and tracking systems. The High included more active strategies such as escorting patients to appointments. Linkage class membership was significantly associated with frequency of linkages to primary care (p=.020). COVID-19 disruptions demonstrate how the Care Continuum has been undermined by insufficient organizational resources. Conclusion: Findings suggest, addresses gaps in linkages should enhance the overall Continuum of Care provided to individuals diagnosed and living with HIV. PubDate: 2022-04-01 Issue No:Vol. 2, No. 1 (2022)
Authors:Kalpani Abhayasinghe, Navodya Weerasinghe, Lasith Dissanayake, Krishani Jayasinghe, Duminda Guruge, Athula Sumathipala Pages: 15 - 25 Abstract: Background: The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) or COVID-19 pandemic affected many international students, including the Sri Lankan youth and young adults who were studying in the United Kingdom (UK), and repatriated to the motherland during the first wave. The current study aimed to explore and understand the lived experiences, behaviour, and psychological patterns of these students during their lockdown in the UK; quarantine and self-isolation; and repatriation back to Sri Lanka. Methods: This descriptive qualitative study was planned and conducted in a quarantine environment based on the lived experiences of two authors (KA and NW), who were also repatriated students due to COVID-19 pandemic. A convenient sample of sixteen (16) repatriated students (age ranged from 18 – 34) participated in the study. Data was collected using multiple methods including questionnaires, researchers’ objective observations and semi-structured interviews (conducted over the phone or online). The thematic analysis method was used for data analysis. Results: Both positive and negative psychological and behavioural patterns were observed. Three themes emerged were: (1) Fear, worry and anxiety, (2) Irritability and agitation, and (3) Adherence to safety precautions. Many reported negative abrupt changes to their education and lifestyles during this stressful situation. Perceived stigma and emotional imbalance have caused difficulty in coping. Positive changes such as increased efficacy in academic activities, exploring new hobbies and healthy coping skills were also reported. Conclusion: Findings highlight the need for addressing age-specific behavioural, psychological, and educational needs of youth and young adults when developing guidelines to manage similar situations in the future and to increase resilience. PubDate: 2022-04-01 Issue No:Vol. 2, No. 1 (2022)
Authors:Sarath Rathnayake, Thilanka Jagoda, Damayanthi Dassanayake, Nishadi Dharmarathna, Chandrani M Herath, Samath D Dharmaratne Pages: 26 - 34 Abstract: In the wake of COVID-19, nursing education has shifted to eLearning from traditional methods. This reflective analysis addresses the impact of COVID-19 on the development of competencies among nursing students in Sri Lanka. Four themes were identified: the direct impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on nursing education; the role of eLearning in nursing education during the COVID-19 pandemic; the acquisition of nursing skills and competencies; and implications for education, research, and policy. Virtual online learning has replaced traditional teaching and learning. Acquiring clinical skills and competencies and completing the practicum are challenging. Since nurses are in high demand; nursing education needs to be accelerated and modified. A change in policies related to education and research is essential for developing countries. Blended learning, which includes more simulation teaching, is recommended. PubDate: 2022-04-01 Issue No:Vol. 2, No. 1 (2022)
Authors:Iuna Dones, Ruxandra Oana Ciobanu, Marie Baeriswyl Pages: 35 - 50 Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic led to changes in mobilities worldwide. Physical movement and social contact are shown to be correlated to life satisfaction. In this paper we are interested in how during the pandemic other types of mobilities relate to life satisfaction. The paper draws on a survey (N=643) among persons aged 65+ in Switzerland. Results show that engagement in communicative mobilities are related to higher life satisfaction, imaginative mobilities only partially relate to life satisfaction, and virtual mobilities have no correlation. PubDate: 2022-04-01 Issue No:Vol. 2, No. 1 (2022)
Authors:KIP Prabani, Damayanthi HDWT Pages: 51 - 66 Abstract: Introduction and Objectives: Quality of life (QOL) and psychological wellbeing deteriorate during the COVID 19 pandemic in patients with cancer. Purpose: This study aims to review the current evidence of QOL, anxiety, depression, psychological distress, and their inter-relationship in patients with cancer and survivors during the COVID 19 pandemic. Moreover, this study identifies factors associated with QOL and mental health in patients with cancer and survivors during the COVID 19 pandemic. Methods: An extensive electronic database search was conducted. Articles published in English assessing cancer patients and cancer survivors’ QOL and psychological wellbeing. Results: Twenty-seven articles with 22,134 participants were included. Concerns related to contracting COVID 19, along with potential treatment plans were predictors of impaired QOL. Advanced age, family support, being identified as a male and having less comorbid conditions were associated with the high level of QOL. Delay or change in treatment plan, contact with COVID 19 positive individuals, and emotional vulnerability were found to be independently associated with high levels of anxiety, depression, and distress. Conclusion: Health professionals, caregivers and support services should pay more attention on QOL and psychological wellbeing of the patients with cancer. Counselling sessions, support services should be established to improve their life satisfaction and wellbeing. PubDate: 2022-04-01 Issue No:Vol. 2, No. 1 (2022)
Authors:Sevil Alkan ÇEVIKER, Bulent AKKAYA, Şebnem Şenol Akar Pages: 67 - 79 Abstract: Objective: The purpose of this study was to develop a COVID-19 Health Literacy (HL) scale. Material and Methods: Data were obtained from three samples of medical students (n=628) having different demographic characteristics in different regions of Turkey. A pilot study was conducted to assess language validity. Several psychometric tests were conducted to assess the tools’ reliability and validity. Results: A .963 Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) value was obtained, in addition to a 72.26% variance score. The scale also demonstrated reliability values (internal consistency; α=.94). Two dimensions consisting of 20 items were identified to represent and the COVID-19 HL. Conclusion: The COVID-19 HL scale demonstrated robust psychometric properties. It was also deemed to be reliable and valid in assessing health literacy of COVID-19 among the medical students and will also be useful in increasing COVID-19 awareness among individuals. PubDate: 2022-04-01 Issue No:Vol. 2, No. 1 (2022)
Authors:Kateryna Metersky, Rostislav Axenciuc, Emily Mitchell, Sifelipilu Nyathi Pages: 80 - 87 Abstract: Background: The current healthcare environment is filled with numerous team caring models, which are often used interchangeably, but ultimately mean different levels of collaboration among HCPs, and between HCPs and patients: multiprofessional collaboration, transprofessional collaboration, and interprofessional patient-centered collaborative (IPCC) care. Furthermore, the labels for these care models are not patient-friendly, portraying that only HCP ‘professionals’ comprise the team membership. Clarity is required around the terminology and labeling of these caring models to ensure enhanced patient involvement within interprofessional teams. Discussion: The definitions of the three team care models are provided with an explanation of how these models of care connect to the 55-year-old patient’s case and impact on the relationship between HCPs and patient. Conclusion: While IPCC care is considered as the gold standard for the collaboration between a variety of HCP professional groups and the patient, work needs to be done on the label applied to this caring model. Future research should explore, from patients’ perspectives, the labels used in IPCC care and propose an alternative title that is more inclusive of patients as team members. PubDate: 2022-04-01 Issue No:Vol. 2, No. 1 (2022)
Authors:Walaa Al-Chetachi, Agafya Krivova, Hana’a Badran, Saida Azam, Eman Radwan, Yasmine Shalaby, Mithila Orin, Edith Quintanilla, Shafi Bhuiyan Pages: 88 - 117 Abstract: Introduction: Women’s empowerment refers to strengthening the social, economic, and educational powers of women. Numerous global initiatives have been implemented to enable women to make decisions about their health and lives. The purpose of this literature review was to review women’s health barriers, related best practices, and their impacts on women's empowerment in the global context. Methods: We comprehensively searched databases: PubMed, CINAHL, and Google Scholar and key program websites. To expand our review, we used a snowball strategy to scan articles, documents, reports, and research outputs of global programs and best practices to overcome barriers. Also, we screened publications posted on websites of organizations working on women’s empowerment and monitoring the Sustainable Development Goals progress. Results: Findings suggest significant advancements have been made in the status of women's health over the past two decades. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has aggravated health barriers, impeding, and even reversing progress, which has resulted in widening women’s inequity in access to health care services worldwide. Conclusions: Findings suggest that successful and sustainable programs should have a multisectoral, multilevel and multistakeholder, diversified interventions approach with social empowerment, as well as the need for legislative enforcement against discrimination and harmful practices towards women. PubDate: 2022-04-01 Issue No:Vol. 2, No. 1 (2022)
Authors:Janet Kemei, Bukola Salami Pages: 118 - 128 Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated health inequities and vulnerabilities in our society, with the Black population being disproportionately affected. As previous pandemics have resulted in an increase in adverse events to children and youth, we reviewed the literature to examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Black children and youth. We found Black children and youth experience psychosocial stressors related to uncertainties of the future. Differential gender effects related to COVID-19 are also apparent. Physical distancing related to the COVID-19 pandemic which resulted in differential impacts on physical activity levels in children. We also noted, increase levels of isolation may result in undetected child abuse. The review highlights the urgent need for multifaceted interventions that address disparities in social determinants of health and psychosocial needs of Black children and youth in Canada. Future research that addresses the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on Black children and youth is needed to help create context-specific interventions. PubDate: 2022-04-01 Issue No:Vol. 2, No. 1 (2022)
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