Research

13 pages, 970 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Decision-Making Preferences among Advanced Cancer Patients in a Palliative Setting in Jordan

by Omar Shamieh, Ghadeer Alarjeh, Mohammad Al Qadire, Waleed Alrjoub, Mahmoud Abu-Nasser, Fadi Abu Farsakh, Abdelrahman AlHawamdeh, Mohammad Al-Omari, Zaid Amin, Omar Ayaad, Amal Al-Tabba, David Hui, Eduardo Bruera and Sriram Yennurajalingam

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(8), 5550; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20085550 - 18 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1293

Abstract

Understanding patients’ decision-making preferences is crucial for enhancing patients’ outcomes. The current study aims to identify Jordanian advanced cancer patients’ preferred decision-making and to explore the associated variables of the passive decision-making preference. We used a cross-sectional survey design. Patients with advanced cancer [...] Read more.

Understanding patients’ decision-making preferences is crucial for enhancing patients’ outcomes. The current study aims to identify Jordanian advanced cancer patients’ preferred decision-making and to explore the associated variables of the passive decision-making preference. We used a cross-sectional survey design. Patients with advanced cancer referred to the palliative care clinic at a tertiary cancer center were recruited. We measured patients’ decision-making preferences using the Control Preference Scale. Patients’ satisfaction with decision-making was assessed with the Satisfaction with Decision Scale. Cohen’s kappa statistic was used to assess the agreement between decision-control preferences and actual decision-making, and the bivariate analysis with 95% CI and the univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to examine the association and predictors of the demographical and clinical characteristics of the participants and the participants’ decision-control preferences, respectively. A total of 200 patients completed the survey. The patients’ median age was 49.8 years, and 115 (57.5%) were female. Of them, 81 (40.5%) preferred passive decision control, and 70 (35%) and 49 (24.5%) preferred shared and active decision control, respectively. Less educated participants, females, and Muslim patients were found to have a statistically significant association with passive decision-control preferences. Univariate logistic regression analysis showed that, being a male (p = 0.003), highly educated (p = 0.018), and a Christian (p = 0.006) were statistically significant correlates of active decision-control preferences. Meanwhile, the multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that being a male or a Christian were the only statistically significant predictors of active participants’ decision-control preferences. Around 168 (84%) of participants were satisfied with the way decisions were made, 164 (82%) of patients were satisfied with the actual decisions made, and 143 (71.5%) were satisfied with the shared information. The agreement level between decision-making preferences and actual decision practices was significant (ⱪ coefficient = 0.69; 95% CI = 0.59 to 0.79). The study’s results demonstrate that a passive decision-control preference was prominent among patients with advanced cancer in Jordan. Further studies are needed to evaluate decision-control preference for additional variables, such as patients’ psychosocial and spiritual factors, communication, and information sharing preferences, throughout the cancer trajectory so as to inform policies and improve practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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18 pages, 768 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding Use Intention of mHealth Applications Based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT-2) Model in China

by Yancong Zhu, Zhenhong Zhao, Jingxian Guo, Yanna Wang, Chengwen Zhang, Jiayu Zheng, Zheng Zou and Wei Liu

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(4), 3139; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20043139 - 10 Feb 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2851

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the healthcare industry, especially public health resources and resource allocation. With the change in people’s lifestyles and increased demand for medical and health care in the post-pandemic era, the Internet and home healthcare have rapidly developed. As [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the healthcare industry, especially public health resources and resource allocation. With the change in people’s lifestyles and increased demand for medical and health care in the post-pandemic era, the Internet and home healthcare have rapidly developed. As an essential part of Internet healthcare, mobile health (mHealth) applications help to fundamentally address the lack of medical resources and meet people’s healthcare needs. In this mixed-method study, we conducted in-depth interviews with 20 users in China (mean age = 26.13, SD = 2.80, all born in China) during the pandemic, based on the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology 2 (UTAUT-2) mode, and identified four dimensions of user needs in mHealth scenarios: convenience, control, trust, and emotionality. Based on the interview results, we adjusted the independent variables, deleted the hedonic motivation and the habit, and added the perceived trust and perceived risk as the variables. Using a structural equation model (SEM), we designed the questionnaire according to the qualitative results and collected data from 371 participants (above 18 years old, 43.9% male) online to examine the interrelationships these variables. The results show that performance expectancy (β = 0.40, p < 0.001), effort expectancy (β = 0.40, p < 0.001), social influence (β = 0.14, p < 0.05), facilitating condition (β = 0.15, p < 0.001), and perceived trust (β = 0.31, p < 0.001) had positive effects on use intention. Perceived risk (β = −0.31, p < 0.001) harmed use intention, and price value (β = 0.10, p > 0.5) had no significant effects on use intention. Finally, we discussed design and development guidelines that can enhance user experience of mHealth applications. This research combines the actual needs and the main factors affecting the use intention of users, solves the problems of low satisfaction of user experience, and provides better strategic suggestions for developing mHealth applications in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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15 pages, 1017 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Recommending Breast Cancer Screening to My Mum: Examining the Interplay of Threat, Efficacy, and Virality on Recommendation Intention in the Chinese Context

by Chen Luo, Zizhong Zhang and Jing Jin

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(2), 907; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20020907 - 04 Jan 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1671

Abstract

The burgeoning eHealth campaigns and the emerging daughter-to-mother health communication necessitate a close examination of the intricate mechanism behind recommending preventive behaviors in online settings. The present study addresses existing gaps by investigating how message characteristics and platform-generated virality cues jointly influence younger [...] Read more.

The burgeoning eHealth campaigns and the emerging daughter-to-mother health communication necessitate a close examination of the intricate mechanism behind recommending preventive behaviors in online settings. The present study addresses existing gaps by investigating how message characteristics and platform-generated virality cues jointly influence younger females’ intention to recommend breast cancer screening to their mothers. Drawing on the extended parallel process model (EPPM) as the theoretical basis, a 2 (threat: low vs. high) × 2 (efficacy: low vs. high) × 2 (virality: low vs. high) randomized between-subjects experiment (n = 269) was performed. Results revealed a three-way interaction effect between threat, efficacy, and virality on message involvement. Message involvement was positively associated with recommendation intention and mediated the three-way interaction effect on recommendation intention. This study demonstrates that a high threat can initiate message involvement but fail to trigger recommendation intention. In contrast, a low-threat, high-efficacy, high-virality combination would yield a salutary outcome. Besides, the indispensable role of message involvement in the underlying psychological mechanism behind recommending preventive behaviors was reaffirmed. Theoretical and practical implications are further discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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18 pages, 361 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Use of the Internet for Health Purposes—A National Web-Based Cross-Sectional Survey among Adults in Poland

by Krzysztof Płaciszewski, Waldemar Wierzba, Janusz Ostrowski, Jarosław Pinkas and Mateusz Jankowski

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(23), 16315; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192316315 - 06 Dec 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1277

Abstract

The Internet is one of the most popular information sources. This study aimed to assess the public attitudes towards the use of the Internet for health purposes as well as to identify factors associated with the use of the Internet for health purposes [...] Read more.

The Internet is one of the most popular information sources. This study aimed to assess the public attitudes towards the use of the Internet for health purposes as well as to identify factors associated with the use of the Internet for health purposes among adults in Poland. A web-based cross-sectional survey was carried out between 9 and 12 September 2022 on a nationwide random-quota sample of 1092 adults in Poland. The study questionnaire included 10 questions on Internet use for health purposes. The most common reason for the use of the Internet for health purposes was searching for information on drugs and their effects (69.9%). Almost two-thirds of participants used the Internet for searching for health information (64.9%), for doctors/medical services (63.4%), or for medical facilities (65.3%). Over half of the participants used the Internet for checking online reviews of doctors (55.2%) and 43.5% of the participants ordered drugs or dietary supplements online. Out of 9 different socioeconomic factors analyzed in this study, having higher education, being female, as well as living in cities from 100,000 to 499,999 residents were the most important factors (p < 0.05) associated with the use of the Internet for health purposes. This study confirmed a high level of adoption of medical Internet in Poland. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

19 pages, 2333 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Sustainable Communication Patterns during the Telework Period in Western Romanian Corporations

by Eugenia Țigan, Radu Lucian Blaga, Florin-Lucian Isac, Monica Lungu, Ioana Anda Milin, Florin Tripa and Simona Gavrilaș

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 9796; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19169796 - 09 Aug 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1643

Abstract

The research was conducted in a particular context, the recent pandemic. It is a comparative study of the methods and quality of communication in global companies between 2021 and 2022. The corporations involved in the research are important providers of flexible production, quality, [...] Read more.

The research was conducted in a particular context, the recent pandemic. It is a comparative study of the methods and quality of communication in global companies between 2021 and 2022. The corporations involved in the research are important providers of flexible production, quality, and logistics solutions that cover customers’ real needs. They are active in the automotive industry and units involved in mass production in the electronics industry, household appliances, and cosmetics industries. In their case, it was noted that to achieve operational objectives such as developing employee skills, using advanced technologies, and exceeding customer expectations, it is important to use innovative methods and tools such as single platforms, which allow access to the most important information from a distance, anywhere, anytime. It is significant that, according to the research, the preferred method of communication by employees, regardless of the existing conditions, is face-to-face. Primarily, this method is chosen because it provides an open area of interpersonal interaction. The participants observe non-verbal attitudes or can perceive emotions and feelings. Their personality can be identified through unintentional contact to obtain constructive feedback through guidance and counseling. Moreover, it can be formed and develop productive, intentional connections. Stakeholders’ efficient and effective open dialogs are encouraged in this sense. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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18 pages, 373 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Social Marketing Strategy to Promote Traditional Thai Medicines during COVID-19: KAP and DoI Two-Step Theory Application Process

by Prarawan Senachai, Jakaphun Julsrigival and Raksmey Sann

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(14), 8416; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19148416 - 09 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1899

Abstract

Introduction: Recently, the Thai government has been promoting the innovation of finished forms of traditional Thai medicine (TTM) products (e.g., tablets and capsules). According to the existing literature, most consumers are unaware of the finished forms of TTMs because of conflicting knowledge, [...] Read more.

Introduction: Recently, the Thai government has been promoting the innovation of finished forms of traditional Thai medicine (TTM) products (e.g., tablets and capsules). According to the existing literature, most consumers are unaware of the finished forms of TTMs because of conflicting knowledge, information, and communication. Therefore, the consumers have poor perceptions about TTMs and their benefits. Purpose: This qualitative study explores the current perceptions about TTMs and the modes of promotion that are being utilized to develop a strategic communication plan for the finished forms of TTMs. Design/methodology/approach: Utilising thematic analysis, focus groups were conducted with thirty experienced consumers. Findings: Using KAP and DoI theory, the following three themes emerged in this study: (i) the current KAP of Thai consumers toward the finished forms of TTM; (ii) factors influencing the use of finished forms of TTM; and (iii) integrated marketing communication as a promotion strategy to rapidly disseminate knowledge. Research limitations/implications: Given Thailand’s large population, the findings of this study are substantially limited and cannot be generalized. Therefore, the findings herein may not reflect the experiences and opinions of the Thai consumers residing in other regions or the opinions of the entire country. Originality/value: This study utilises interdisciplinary methods and two-step theory application to explain the current knowledge and perceptions about the finished forms of TTM and develop proper communication and media strategies that can promote the finished forms of traditional Thai medicines, helping to widen their usage significantly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

26 pages, 620 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exposure Detection Applications Acceptance: The Case of COVID-19

by Adi Alsyouf, Abdalwali Lutfi, Mohammad Al-Bsheish, Mu’taman Jarrar, Khalid Al-Mugheed, Mohammed Amin Almaiah, Fahad Nasser Alhazmi, Ra’ed Masa’deh, Rami J. Anshasi and Abdallah Ashour

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(12), 7307; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19127307 - 14 Jun 2022

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 3738

Abstract

The pandemic’s context is rife with numerous dangerous threats and high fear levels, influencing human decision-making. Such characteristics are identified by investigating the acceptance of exposure detection apps from the technology acceptance model (TAM) perspective. This study purposed a model to investigate protection [...] Read more.

The pandemic’s context is rife with numerous dangerous threats and high fear levels, influencing human decision-making. Such characteristics are identified by investigating the acceptance of exposure detection apps from the technology acceptance model (TAM) perspective. This study purposed a model to investigate protection technology acceptance, specifically exposure detection apps in the context of COVID-19. Quantitative study approach and a cross-section design targeted 586 participants from Saudi Arabia. As the study model is complex, the study hypotheses were analysed using the structural equation modelling–partial least squares (SEM-PLS3) approach. The findings support the entire model hypothesis except the link between social media awareness and exposure detection apps’ intention. Mediation of COVID-19 anxiety and influence was confirmed as well. The current paper contributes to the technologies acceptance domain by developing a context-driven model comprising the major pandemic characteristics that lead to various patterns of technology acceptance. This study also fills the literature gap regarding mediating effects of social influence and COVID-19 anxiety in the relationship between trust in government and exposure detection apps implementation, and between COVID-19 anxiety and exposure detection apps implementation, respectively. The results may assist government agencies, health policymakers, and health organisations in the wide world and specifically Saudi Arabia, in their attempts to contain the COVID-19 pandemic spread. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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26 pages, 947 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Public and Private Information Sharing under “New Normal” of COVID-19: Understanding the Roles of Habit and Outcome Expectation

by Han Lv, Xueyan Cao, Shiqi Chen and Liqun Liu

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(9), 5552; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19095552 - 03 May 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2228

Abstract

Information sharing is critical in risk communication and management during the COVID-19 epidemic, and information sharing has been a part of individual prevention and particular lifestyles under the “New Normal” of COVID-19. Thus, the purpose of this study was to explore influencing factors [...] Read more.

Information sharing is critical in risk communication and management during the COVID-19 epidemic, and information sharing has been a part of individual prevention and particular lifestyles under the “New Normal” of COVID-19. Thus, the purpose of this study was to explore influencing factors and mechanisms in public and private information sharing intention among people under the regular risk situation. This study investigated an information sharing mechanism based on a cross-sectional design. We collected 780 valid responses through a sample database of an online questionnaire platform and utilized partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to further analyze the data. To explore the difference caused by news frames, we divided respondents into two groups according to the news frame (action frame vs. reassurance frame) and proceeded with the multi-group analysis. The results showed that four types of outcome expectations (information seeking, emotion regulation, altruism and public engagement) and habit had impacts on public and private information sharing intention. Two paths influencing information sharing proposed in this study were supported. The results showed that outcome expectations were positively related to habit, which implies that the cognitive mechanism was positively relevant to the formation of habit. The results proved that habit played a mediating role between outcome expectations and information sharing. This research found that emotion regulation and public engagement outcome expectations only affected two types of information sharing intention mediated by habit. Regarding the role of the news frame, this study found no significant difference between the group exposed to action-framed news and the group exposed to reassurance-framed news. By exploring influencing factors and the mechanism of information sharing under the “New Normal”, these findings contribute to understanding of information sharing and have implications on risk management. The proposed mechanism classifying public and private information sharing complements risk information flowing by considering online risk incubation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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20 pages, 411 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is Social Media a New Type of Social Support? Social Media Use in Spain during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mixed Methods Study

by Aviana O. Rosen, Ashley L. Holmes, Nekane Balluerka, Maria Dolores Hidalgo, Arantxa Gorostiaga, Juana Gómez-Benito and Tania B. Huedo-Medina

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(7), 3952; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19073952 - 26 Mar 2022

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 7170

Abstract

This study examines Spanish adults’ social media use during the COVID-19 pandemic using mixed-methods to assess and understand frequency, context, and changes in social media use during two critical time points in Spain. We conducted semi-structured interviews in April 2020, and two waves [...] Read more.

This study examines Spanish adults’ social media use during the COVID-19 pandemic using mixed-methods to assess and understand frequency, context, and changes in social media use during two critical time points in Spain. We conducted semi-structured interviews in April 2020, and two waves of surveys (April 2020, April 2021) among Spanish adults. We coded and analyzed qualitative data related to social media use during the first lockdown period in Spain using Dedoose software; and ran descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to assess changes in social media use over the two survey waves related to perceived social support and loneliness. Participants ranged in age from 18–92 and were representative of the Spanish population’s sociodemographics. Interview data show that WhatsApp was most commonly used, and that social media allowed for social support and engaging in healthy behaviors. Survey data show that women and individuals aged 18–34 had the greatest increases in social media use. Statistically significant associations were found between social support and loneliness with social media use. Our results show that promoting social media use as an emotional resource for social support in times of crisis or isolation can minimize loneliness and can be a beneficial tool for general worldwide crises. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

16 pages, 2688 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mediterranean Diet Social Network Impact along 11 Years in the Major US Media Outlets: Thematic and Quantitative Analysis Using Twitter

by Miguel Angel Alvarez-Mon, Cesar I. Fernandez-Lazaro, Maria Llavero-Valero, Melchor Alvarez-Mon, Samia Mora, Miguel A. Martínez-González and Maira Bes-Rastrollo

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(2), 784; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19020784 - 11 Jan 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2119

Abstract

Background: Media outlets influence social attitudes toward health. Thus, it is important that they share contents which promote healthy habits. The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) is associated with lower cardiovascular disease risk. Analysis of tweets has become a tool for understanding perceptions on health [...] Read more.

Background: Media outlets influence social attitudes toward health. Thus, it is important that they share contents which promote healthy habits. The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) is associated with lower cardiovascular disease risk. Analysis of tweets has become a tool for understanding perceptions on health issues. Methods: We investigated tweets posted between January 2009 and December 2019 by 25 major US media outlets about MedDiet and its components as well as the retweets and likes generated. In addition, we measured the sentiment analysis of these tweets and their dissemination. Results: In total, 1608 tweets, 123,363 likes and 48,946 retweets about MedDiet or its components were analyzed. Dairy (inversely weighted in MedDiet scores) accounted for 45.0% of the tweets (723/1608), followed by nuts 19.7% (317/1608). MedDiet, as an overall dietary pattern, generated only 9.8% (157/1608) of the total tweets, while olive oil generated the least number of tweets. Twitter users’ response was quantitatively related to the number of tweets posted by these US media outlets, except for tweets on olive oil and MedDiet. None of the MedDiet components analyzed was more likely to be liked or retweeted than the MedDiet itself. Conclusions: The US media outlets analyzed showed reduced interest in MedDiet as a whole, while Twitter users showed greater interest in the overall dietary pattern than in its particular components. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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17 pages, 835 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Attention to News Media, Emotional Responses, and Policy Preferences about Public Health Crisis: The Case of Fine Dust Pollution in South Korea

by Soohee Kim and Yong-Chan Kim

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(24), 13325; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182413325 - 17 Dec 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2273

Abstract

This study examines how attention to science and political news may influence the way people feel about an environmental risk, and how this in turn impacts policy preferences. Using an online survey conducted on the issue of fine dust pollution in South Korea, [...] Read more.

This study examines how attention to science and political news may influence the way people feel about an environmental risk, and how this in turn impacts policy preferences. Using an online survey conducted on the issue of fine dust pollution in South Korea, this study found that science news attention was associated with greater anxiety and anger about the issue, whereas political news attention was associated with fear and sadness/depression (as well as anxiety and anger). Furthermore, mediation analysis showed that science news attention indirectly influenced support for preventive policy through anxiety, whereas political news attention indirectly influenced punitive policy support through anger and fear. Theoretical and practical implications of this study are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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18 pages, 737 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Users’ Intention to Continue Using Online Mental Health Communities: Empowerment Theory Perspective

by Jingfang Liu and Jiayu Wang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(18), 9427; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18189427 - 07 Sep 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3755

Abstract

Introduction: Online mental health communities may provide new opportunities for rehabilitation for people with mental illness, so it is important to understand the factors that influence the continued use of online mental health communities by people with mental illness. Methods: From the perspective [...] Read more.

Introduction: Online mental health communities may provide new opportunities for rehabilitation for people with mental illness, so it is important to understand the factors that influence the continued use of online mental health communities by people with mental illness. Methods: From the perspective of empowerment, based on the theory of health self-efficacy and expectation confirmation, this study explored the mediating role of health self-efficacy and expectation confirmation in the empowerment process of patients in online mental health communities and users’ intention to continue using online mental health communities. To verify this model, we obtained 272 valid questionnaires. The SmartPLS 3.0 software was selected for model construction and empirical analysis. Results: Health self-efficacy completely mediates the relationship between the empowerment process (i.e., emotional support, information support, helping others and sharing experiences) and users’ intention to continue using an online mental health community. Expectation confirmation partially mediates the relationship between the empowerment process (i.e., information support and finding recognition) and users’ intention to continue using an online mental health community. Conclusion: The empowerment process is the main predictor of user health self-efficacy and expectation confirmation. This study has certain theoretical and practical significance for online mental health community research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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15 pages, 3841 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Mediated Role of Credibility on Information Sources and Patient Awareness toward Patient Rights

by Osnat Roth-Cohen, Shalom Levy and Avi Zigdon

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(16), 8628; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18168628 - 15 Aug 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2665

Abstract

Although patient rights are an important issue, this remains an understudied research area. Patients are unaware of their rights, lacking control of health care treatments they might deserve. This can contribute to sustaining inequality as well as failure in achieving welfare policy goals. [...] Read more.

Although patient rights are an important issue, this remains an understudied research area. Patients are unaware of their rights, lacking control of health care treatments they might deserve. This can contribute to sustaining inequality as well as failure in achieving welfare policy goals. Drawing on channel complementarity theory, the current study explored patients’ awareness toward their rights, and the credibility of information sources related to patient rights. In a web-based survey, 994 Israeli participants, suffering from chronic illness and using health services, were recruited. To examine the study’s theoretical framework and relationships among the constructs and test the hypotheses, a path analysis was conducted using Structural Equation Modeling. The research model depicts direct and indirect relationships between constructs, and the relevant coefficients. The results show a direct and positive interaction between information credibility and patient rights awareness (β = 0.10, p = 0.019). Information credibility partially mediates the relationship between public service information sources and patient rights awareness (bootstrap with 95% CI: 0.01–0.07; p = 0.015). The mass media information sources construct is directly and positively related to information credibility (β = 0.36, p = 0.000). Age was found as a moderator, indicating that information credibility is a factor only at lower ages. Therefore, patient rights should be systematically and reliably accessible in order to raise the awareness and trust of chronic patients regarding information about patient rights. Using planned health communication campaigns mainly via public service sources that are perceived as trustworthy can help contribute to approach patients more effectively and provide them with accessible and detailed information about their rights. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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13 pages, 4979 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diverging from News Media: An Exploratory Study on the Changing Dynamics between Media and Public Attention on Cancer in China from 2011–2020

by Yangkun Huang, Xiaoping Xu and Sini Su

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(16), 8577; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18168577 - 13 Aug 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2944

Abstract

Over the past decade, China has witnessed fast-paced technological advancements in the media industry, as well as major shifts in the health agenda portrayed in the media. Therefore, a key starting point when discussing health communication lies in whether media attention and public [...] Read more.

Over the past decade, China has witnessed fast-paced technological advancements in the media industry, as well as major shifts in the health agenda portrayed in the media. Therefore, a key starting point when discussing health communication lies in whether media attention and public attention towards health issues are structurally aligned, and to what extent the news media guides public attention. Based on data mined from 73,060 sets of the Baidu Search Index and Media Index on 20 terms covering different types of cancer from 2011 to 2020, the Granger test demonstrates that, in the last decade, public attention and media attention towards cancer in China has gone through two distinct phases. During the first phase, 2011–2015, Chinese news media still held the key in transferring the salience of issues on most cancer types to the public. In the second phase, from 2016–2020, public attention towards cancer has gradually diverged from media coverage, mirroring the imbalance and mismatch between the demand of active public and the supply of cancer information from news media. This study provides an overview of the dynamic transition on cancer issues in China over a ten-year span, along with descriptive results on public and media attention towards specific cancer types. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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13 pages, 3396 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of High-Intensity Interval Training and Intermittent Fasting on Body Composition and Physical Performance in Active Women

by Alejandro Martínez-Rodríguez, Jacobo A. Rubio-Arias, José M. García-De Frutos, Manuel Vicente-Martínez and Thomas P. Gunnarsson

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6431; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126431 - 14 Jun 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 10458

Abstract

Nutritional strategies may have an effect on body composition and physical performance. Intermittent fasting (IF) is an eating pattern that cycles between periods of eating and fasting in specified time periods. Moreover, it is a common strategy among members of the athlete population [...] Read more.

Nutritional strategies may have an effect on body composition and physical performance. Intermittent fasting (IF) is an eating pattern that cycles between periods of eating and fasting in specified time periods. Moreover, it is a common strategy among members of the athlete population that are looking for weight loss. However, this strategy may negatively affect physical performance, as compared to other weight loss strategies. The main purpose of this research was to use a cross-over design to study the effects of HIIT, with or without intermittent fasting, on muscular and anaerobic performance in 14 active women (27 ± 6 y). To assess performance, body composition (anthropometry), hand-grip strength, and counter-movement jump (CMJ) height was measured, and a 30 s Wingate test was completed assessed. HIIT + IF reduced fat mass (1 kg, p < 0.05, d = 1.1; 1.5%, p < 0.01, d = 1.0) and increased CMJ height (6.2 cm, p < 0.001, d = 1.8). In addition, the change in CMJ height in HIIT + IF was higher over HIIT (5.2 cm, p < 0.001, d = 1.9). In conclusion, intermittent fasting could be a nutritional strategy to decrease fat mass and increase jumping performance. However, longer duration programs would be necessary to determine whether other parameters of muscle performance could be positively affected by IF. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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10 pages, 552 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Who Guides Vaccination in the Portuguese Press? An Analysis of Information Sources

by Andrea Langbecker and Daniel Catalan-Matamoros

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(4), 2189; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18042189 - 23 Feb 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2268

Abstract

Sources of information are a key part of the news process as it guides certain topics, influencing the media agenda. The goal of this study is to examine the most frequent voices on vaccines in the Portuguese press. A total of 300 news [...] Read more.

Sources of information are a key part of the news process as it guides certain topics, influencing the media agenda. The goal of this study is to examine the most frequent voices on vaccines in the Portuguese press. A total of 300 news items were analysed via content analysis using as sources two newspapers from 2012 to 2017. Of all the articles, 97.7% included a source (n = 670). The most frequent were “governmental organisations”, “professional associations” and the “media”. Less frequent sources were “university scientists”, “governmental scientific bodies”, “consumer groups”, “doctors”, “scientific companies”, “NGOs” and “scientific journals”. Most articles used only non-scientific sources (n = 156). A total of 94 articles used both categories and 43 used exclusively scientific sources. Our findings support the assertion that media can be an instrument to disseminate information on vaccines. Nevertheless, despite being present in most articles, the number of sources per article was low, therefore not presenting a diversity of opinions and there was a lack of scientific voices, thus suggesting lower quality of the information being offered to the audience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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13 pages, 980 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fake News and Covid-19 in Italy: Results of a Quantitative Observational Study

by Andrea Moscadelli, Giuseppe Albora, Massimiliano Alberto Biamonte, Duccio Giorgetti, Michele Innocenzio, Sonia Paoli, Chiara Lorini, Paolo Bonanni and Guglielmo Bonaccorsi

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(16), 5850; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17165850 - 12 Aug 2020

Cited by 97 | Viewed by 18528

Abstract

During the Covid-19 pandemic, risk communication has often been ineffective, and from this perspective “fake news” has found fertile ground, both as a cause and a consequence of it. The aim of this study is to measure how much “fake news” and corresponding [...] Read more.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, risk communication has often been ineffective, and from this perspective “fake news” has found fertile ground, both as a cause and a consequence of it. The aim of this study is to measure how much “fake news” and corresponding verified news have circulated in Italy in the period between 31 December 2019 and 30 April 2020, and to estimate the quality of informal and formal communication. We used the BuzzSumo application to gather the most shared links on the Internet related to the pandemic in Italy, using keywords chosen according to the most frequent “fake news” during that period. For each research we noted the numbers of “fake news” articles and science-based news articles, as well as the number of engagements. We reviewed 2102 articles. Links that contained fake news were shared 2,352,585 times, accounting for 23.1% of the total shares of all the articles reviewed. Our study throws light on the “fake news” phenomenon in the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. A quantitative assessment is fundamental in order to understand the impact of false information and to define political and technical interventions in health communication. Starting from this evaluation, health literacy should be improved by means of specific interventions in order to improve informal and formal communication. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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12 pages, 718 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analyzing Spanish News Frames on Twitter during COVID-19—A Network Study of El País and El Mundo

by Jingyuan Yu, Yanqin Lu and Juan Muñoz-Justicia

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(15), 5414; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17155414 - 28 Jul 2020

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 5218

Abstract

While COVID-19 is becoming one of the most severe public health crises in the twenty-first century, media coverage about this pandemic is getting more important than ever to make people informed. Drawing on data scraped from Twitter, this study aims to analyze and [...] Read more.

While COVID-19 is becoming one of the most severe public health crises in the twenty-first century, media coverage about this pandemic is getting more important than ever to make people informed. Drawing on data scraped from Twitter, this study aims to analyze and compare the news updates of two main Spanish newspapers El País and El Mundo during the pandemic. Throughout an automatic process of topic modeling and network analysis methods, this study identifies eight news frames for each newspaper’s Twitter account. Furthermore, the whole pandemic development process is split into three periods—the pre-crisis period, the lockdown period and the recovery period. The networks of the computed frames are visualized by these three segments. This paper contributes to the understanding of how Spanish news media cover public health crises on social media platforms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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16 pages, 367 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Consensus on Criteria for Good Practices in Video Consultation: A Delphi Study

by Diana Jiménez-Rodríguez, Diego Ruiz-Salvador, María del Mar Rodríguez Salvador, Mercedes Pérez-Heredia, Francisco José Muñoz Ronda and Oscar Arrogante

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(15), 5396; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17155396 - 27 Jul 2020

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4411

Abstract

The use of telemedicine has greatly increased, largely derived from the COVID-19 pandemic, which has created the need for a guide aimed towards the adequate management of a modality of health care: the video consultation. A Delphi study composed of three rounds was [...] Read more.

The use of telemedicine has greatly increased, largely derived from the COVID-19 pandemic, which has created the need for a guide aimed towards the adequate management of a modality of health care: the video consultation. A Delphi study composed of three rounds was conducted with 16 experts in holding video consultations and managing non-technical skills from different specialties and nationalities to conceive a consensus on the criteria needed for properly managing video consultations by healthcare professionals. The consensus criteria were defined by three dimensions (preparation of video consultation, video consultation process, and post-video consultation) and their corresponding items. Excellent consensus data was obtained; therefore, use is recommended by any healthcare professional who is going to utilize a video consultation, in order to manage it effectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

14 pages, 649 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Communication Skills, Problem-Solving Ability, Understanding of Patients’ Conditions, and Nurse’s Perception of Professionalism among Clinical Nurses: A Structural Equation Model Analysis

by Ae Young Kim and In Ok Sim

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(13), 4896; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17134896 - 07 Jul 2020

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 8475

Abstract

This study was intended to confirm the structural relationship between clinical nurse communication skills, problem-solving ability, understanding of patients’ conditions, and nurse’s perception of professionalism. Due to changes in the healthcare environment, it is becoming difficult to meet the needs of patients, and [...] Read more.

This study was intended to confirm the structural relationship between clinical nurse communication skills, problem-solving ability, understanding of patients’ conditions, and nurse’s perception of professionalism. Due to changes in the healthcare environment, it is becoming difficult to meet the needs of patients, and it is becoming very important to improve the ability to perform professional nursing jobs to meet expectations. In this study method, structural model analysis was applied to identify factors influencing the perception of professionalism in nurses. The subjects of this study were 171 nurses working at general hospitals in city of Se, Ga, and Geu. Data analysis included frequency analysis, identification factor analysis, reliability analysis, measurement model analysis, model fit, and intervention effects. In the results of the study, nurse’s perception of professionalism was influenced by factors of communication skills and understanding of the patient’s condition, but not by their ability to solve problems. Understanding of patient’s condition had a mediating effect on communication skills and nursing awareness. Communication skills and understanding of the patient’s condition greatly influenced the nurse’s perception of professionalism. To improve the professionalism of clinical nurses, nursing managers need to emphasize communication skills and understanding of the patient’s condition. The purpose of this study was to provide a rationale for developing a program to improve job skills by strengthening the awareness of professional positions of clinical nurses to develop nursing quality of community. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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14 pages, 596 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Helping Mothers and Daughters Talk about Environmental Breast Cancer Risk and Risk-Reducing Lifestyle Behaviors

by Carla L. Fisher, Kevin B. Wright, Camella J. Rising, Xiaomei Cai, Michaela D. Mullis, Amelia Burke-Garcia and Dasha Afanaseva

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(13), 4757; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17134757 - 02 Jul 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3281

Abstract

Background: Mothers and daughters struggle to talk about breast cancer risk. Even less attention is paid to environmental determinants of cancer. Third-party online approaches can be helpful navigating these conversations. The aim of this study was to obtain feedback from mothers exposed [...] Read more.

Background: Mothers and daughters struggle to talk about breast cancer risk. Even less attention is paid to environmental determinants of cancer. Third-party online approaches can be helpful navigating these conversations. The aim of this study was to obtain feedback from mothers exposed to a social media intervention (“mommy bloggers”) and identify their preferences for message-design approaches that could help them talk to their daughter(s) about environmental breast cancer risk. Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with 50 mothers. A thematic analysis was conducted using the constant comparative method. Results: Mothers identified four approaches to message design that could help facilitate mother–daughter communication about environmental breast cancer risk. These included two action-oriented approaches that centered on getting the conversation started and keeping the conversation going and two approaches based on lifespan factors to promote daughters’ engagement by using age-appropriate language and visuals and focusing on developmentally specific lifestyle behaviors. Mothers also provided recommended strategies within each approach. Conclusions: Mothers identified various approaches interventionists can utilize to overcome barriers to talking to daughters about environmental breast cancer risk. To promote mother–daughter communication, the messages should be action-oriented to facilitate interaction, but also developed with lifespan and developmental considerations in mind to engage daughters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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15 pages, 360 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Migrant Caregivers of Older People in Spain: Qualitative Insights into Relatives’ Experiences

by María José Morales-Gázquez, Epifanía Natalia Medina-Artiles, Remedios López-Liria, José Manuel Aguilar-Parra, Rubén Trigueros-Ramos, Jerónimo J. González-Bernal and Patricia Rocamora-Pérez

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(8), 2953; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17082953 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2992

Abstract

The traditional structure of families is undergoing profound changes, causing the so-called “crisis of family care.” This study describes the experiences and emotions of the family member who hires migrant caregivers for the older people. This is a qualitative study using a phenomenological [...] Read more.

The traditional structure of families is undergoing profound changes, causing the so-called “crisis of family care.” This study describes the experiences and emotions of the family member who hires migrant caregivers for the older people. This is a qualitative study using a phenomenological design with nine women participants between 53 and 72 years of age. The data collection was carried out through two in-depth interviews and a focus group. There were three major topics: (1) the women in this study recognized that they were not able to take care of the family member directly, due to their responsibilities as female workers and mothers. The fact that migrant caregivers were chosen was conjunctural, where economic reasons were more important. (2) The family members supported the caregivers by teaching them about care and also resolving conflicts produced by culture shock. (3) Trusting the caregiver was a gradual process; the family members felt a complex set of emotions (insecurity, gratitude for the help, moral obligation). In conclusion, they wanted a caregiver who would provide the elder dependent with the love and compassion that they, as daughters, would provide if they had time to do so. The family became the caregiver’s managers and assumed the responsibility of training and helping them. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

16 pages, 339 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Health-Literate Healthcare Organizations and Quality of Care in Hospitals: A Cross-Sectional Study Conducted in Tuscany

by Guglielmo Bonaccorsi, Anna Romiti, Francesca Ierardi, Maddalena Innocenti, Marco Del Riccio, Silvia Frandi, Letizia Bachini, Patrizio Zanobini, Fabrizio Gemmi and Chiara Lorini

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(7), 2508; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17072508 - 06 Apr 2020

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3327

Abstract

The concept of Health-Literate Healthcare Organization (HLHO) concerns the strategies by which healthcare organizations make it easier for people to navigate, understand, and use information and services to take care of their health. The aims of this study were to validate the HLHO-10 [...] Read more.

The concept of Health-Literate Healthcare Organization (HLHO) concerns the strategies by which healthcare organizations make it easier for people to navigate, understand, and use information and services to take care of their health. The aims of this study were to validate the HLHO-10 questionnaire in the Italian language; to measure the degree of implementation of the 10 attributes of HLHOs in a sample of hospitals placed in Tuscany; and to assess the association between the degree of implementation of the 10 attributes of HLHOs and the perceived quality of care. This was a cross-sectional study where data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire including three sections: a descriptive section, a section focused on the perceived quality, and the Italian version of the HLHO-10 questionnaire. A total amount of 405 healthcare managers answered the questionnaire (54.9%). The analysis shows that the HLHO score is significantly associated with the type of hospitals: accredited private hospitals have higher HLHO scores. Moreover, the perceived quality increases with the increasing of the HLHO score, with the highest coefficient for local public hospitals. In conclusion, Organizational Health Literacy culture should be an integral element for the management to improve the quality of care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

18 pages, 389 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Contagious Other? Exploring the Public’s Appraisals of Contact with ‘Mental Illness’

by Daniel Walsh and Juliet Foster

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(6), 2005; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17062005 - 18 Mar 2020

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3763

Abstract

Mental illness has recurrently been found to be Othered by the lay public, although few researchers have examined the affective and implicit processes involved. To explore this, we triangulated facial electromyography (EMG), self-reports, and individual interview data, finding participants to Other mental illness, [...] Read more.

Mental illness has recurrently been found to be Othered by the lay public, although few researchers have examined the affective and implicit processes involved. To explore this, we triangulated facial electromyography (EMG), self-reports, and individual interview data, finding participants to Other mental illness, a process that involved disgust, fear and pity. Furthermore, mental illness was considered to have the potential to permeate, posing a contagious threat. This research highlights the need to fully explore the forms of understanding, which maintain mental-health related stigma, including beliefs about contamination, and the implications this may have for the design of anti-stigma campaigns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

13 pages, 564 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effectiveness and Safety in Remote Monitoring of Patients with Pacemakers Five Years after an Implant: The Poniente Study

by Remedios López-Liria, Antonio López-Villegas, César Leal-Costa, Salvador Peiró, Emilio Robles-Musso, Rafael Bautista-Mesa, Patricia Rocamora-Pérez, Knut Tore Lappegård and Daniel Catalán-Matamoros

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(4), 1431; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17041431 - 23 Feb 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4021

Abstract

Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and functional capacity values immediately after pacemaker (PM) implantation have been well established; however, not much has been known about its long-term effects. The present study compared the long-term effectiveness and safety of remote monitoring plus a clinic [...] Read more.

Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and functional capacity values immediately after pacemaker (PM) implantation have been well established; however, not much has been known about its long-term effects. The present study compared the long-term effectiveness and safety of remote monitoring plus a clinic visit versus clinic visits alone during follow-up of adults implanted with PMs. This study was a single-centre, controlled, non-randomised, non-blinded clinical trial. Data were collected pre-implantation and after 60 months. The patients in the PONIENTE study were assigned to two different groups: remote monitoring (RM) and conventional monitoring (CM). The EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D) questionnaire was used to assess HRQoL and Duke Activity Status Index was used for the functional capacity. After five years, 55 patients completed the study (RM = 21; CM = 34). EuroQol-5D and functional capacity values were improved; however, significant differences were observed only in the EQ5D visual analogue scale (p < 0.001). Remote monitoring was equally feasible, reliable, safe, and clinically useful as CM. The frequencies of rehospitalisations and emergency visits did not differ between the groups. RM was found to be safe and effective in early detection and treatment of medical- and device-related events and in reducing hospital visits. Improved HRQoL was described not only immediately after PM implantation but also extended over a long time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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Review

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17 pages, 2573 KiB

Open AccessReview

Overview of Facebook Use by Hospitals in Italy: A Nationwide Survey during the COVID-19 Emergency

by Beniamino Schiavone, Andrea Vitale, Mena Gallo, Gianlucasalvatore Russo, Domenico Ponticelli and Mario Borrelli

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(14), 7225; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18147225 - 06 Jul 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2094

Abstract

Background: Facebook is the most popular social network across the world and also allows users access to health information. Our study presents an overview of the official Facebook profiles of hospitals in Italy (n = 1351) and how much they are [...] Read more.

Background: Facebook is the most popular social network across the world and also allows users access to health information. Our study presents an overview of the official Facebook profiles of hospitals in Italy (n = 1351) and how much they are used. Methods: All hospitals were surveyed on the number of Facebook posts in May (post-lockdown) and October (second pandemic wave) 2020. The number of followers, the creation date of the official page, and the frequency of publication—that is, the average number of days between two subsequent posts—were determined. Results: In Italy, only 28% (n = 379) of the hospitals had official Facebook pages, of which 20.6% (n = 78) were public hospitals, and 79.4% (n = 301) were private hospitals. Of the hospitals with Facebook pages, 49.1% used them every week, and public hospitals published more often. Conclusions: Despite the differences between regions and types of management, the number of hospitals in Italy that use Facebook as a tool for the public dissemination of health information is still low. Hospitals should adopt an effective communication strategy using social networks to improve the quality of health care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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21 pages, 3922 KiB

Open AccessReview

Educational Interventions for Nursing Students to Develop Communication Skills with Patients: A Systematic Review

by Lorena Gutiérrez-Puertas, Verónica V. Márquez-Hernández, Vanesa Gutiérrez-Puertas, Genoveva Granados-Gámez and Gabriel Aguilera-Manrique

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(7), 2241; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17072241 - 26 Mar 2020

Cited by 60 | Viewed by 25227

Abstract

Introduction: Nursing students establish therapeutic relationships with their patients and as future nursing professionals, they should be trained to be effective communicators. The objective of this systematic review was to know the impact of educational interventions on nursing students to develop their communication [...] Read more.

Introduction: Nursing students establish therapeutic relationships with their patients and as future nursing professionals, they should be trained to be effective communicators. The objective of this systematic review was to know the impact of educational interventions on nursing students to develop their communication skills with patients. Methods: A systematic review of literature was carried out. The following databases were consulted: CINAHL, PubMed (Ovid Medline), SCOPUS and Web of Science. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guided this review. As for inclusion criteria, published articles in English from 2000 to 2020 were included. The methodological rigor of the included articles was evaluated with the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Randomized Controlled Trial or Quasi-Experimental Studies. Changes in communication skills with the patient after the implementation of an intervention were analyzed. Results: Of the included studies in this systematic review (N = 19), two studies were randomized controlled trials, others were single group quasi-experimental studies (N = 11) and two group quasi-experimental studies (n = 6). The majority of the studies were carried out in the USA (n = 7). The most frequent educational intervention was simulation (n = 11). As for the improvement of communication skills, 13 of the 19 articles found statistically significant differences in patient-centered communication skills of nursing students. Conclusions: This systematic review provides preliminary evidence of the effectiveness of interventions used to train nursing students in patient-centered communication. Although all the interventions obtained significant results in communication skills, it has not yet been determined which methodology is more effective. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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Other

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25 pages, 1034 KiB

Open AccessHypothesis

Go Green, Go Social: Exploring the Antecedents of Pro-Environmental Behaviors in Social Networking Sites beyond Norm Activation Theory

by Chia-Ying Li and Yu-Hui Fang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(21), 14265; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192114265 - 01 Nov 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1530

Abstract

The paucity of environmental resources and the threatening warning of global climate change have led to increasing research on environmental issues [e.g., pro-environmental behaviors (PEBs)]. Although norm activation theory (NAT) is a well-recognized theory for approaching PEBs, existing works appear insufficient to explain [...] Read more.

The paucity of environmental resources and the threatening warning of global climate change have led to increasing research on environmental issues [e.g., pro-environmental behaviors (PEBs)]. Although norm activation theory (NAT) is a well-recognized theory for approaching PEBs, existing works appear insufficient to explain PEB in the context of social networking sites (SNSs) without taking contextual, emotional, and social factors into account. Grounded in the egocentric tactician model (ETM), NAT, along with the notions of guilt and social stressors, this study integrates a new ETM path, a supplemented emotional path, alongside the conventional NAT path to achieve a more complete picture of what are crucial determinants of PEBs in the context of SNSs. Social stressors positively moderate the emotional path. Data collected from 897 Facebook users confirm all of our proposed hypotheses. Results indicate that beyond the traditional NAT path, the new ETM path and the emotional path add values to illustrate PEBs on SNSs, and new constructs of self-influence on SNSs (SIS) and guilt remarkably drive PEBs alongside personal norms. Implications for theory and practice are discussed, and guidelines for future research are identified. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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17 pages, 3111 KiB

Open AccessConcept Paper

A Practical Framework for Academics to Implement Public Engagement Interventions and Measure Their Impact

by Isolde Martina Busch, Silvia Savazzi, Giuseppe Bertini, Paola Cesari, Olivia Guaraldo, Michela Nosè, Corrado Barbui and Michela Rimondini

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13357; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013357 - 16 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1542

Abstract

Academic institutions have shown an increased interest in the so-called third mission to offer an impactful contribution to society. Indeed, public engagement programs ensure knowledge transfer and help to inspire positive public discourse. We aimed to propose a comprehensive framework for academic institutions [...] Read more.

Academic institutions have shown an increased interest in the so-called third mission to offer an impactful contribution to society. Indeed, public engagement programs ensure knowledge transfer and help to inspire positive public discourse. We aimed to propose a comprehensive framework for academic institutions planning to implement a public engagement intervention and to suggest potential indicators to measure its impact. To inform the framework development, we searched the literature on public engagement, the third mission, and design theory in electronic databases and additional sources (e.g., academic recommendations) and partnered with a communication agency offering non-academic advice. In line with this framework, we designed a public engagement intervention to foster scientific literacy in Italian youth, actively involving them in the development of the intervention. Our framework is composed of four phases (planning/design, implementation, immediate impact assessment, and medium- and long-term assessment). Impact indicators were subdivided into outcome variables that were immediately describable (e.g., changed understanding and awareness of the target population) and measurable only in the medium or long run (e.g., adoption of the intervention by other institutions). The framework is expected to maximize the impact of public engagement interventions and ultimately lead to better reciprocal listening and mutual understanding between academia and the public. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Communication and Public Health)

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