https://ajpojournals.org/journals/index.php/AJHMN/issue/feed 2024-04-08T02:49:02+03:00 Journal Admin journals@ajpojournals.org Open Journal Systems <p>The American Journal of Health, Medicine and Nursing Practice (AJHMNP) is an open access journal that publishes high-quality research in various fields of health, medicine and nursing. The journal aims to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and exchange among researchers, practitioners, educators, and policy makers. The journal covers topics such as public health, health care, medical sciences, clinical medicine, nursing sciences, nursing practice, and more. The journal follows a rigorous peer review process that ensures the validity and quality of the published articles. The journal also has an eminent editorial board that guides the editorial policy and direction of the journal. The journal is indexed by several reputable platforms that increase the visibility and accessibility of the published articles. The journal also provides a digital object identifier (DOI) for each article to facilitate citation and tracking.</p> https://ajpojournals.org/journals/index.php/AJHMN/article/view/1913 2024-04-08T02:40:08+03:00 Ali Fadhul info@ajpo.org

<p><strong>Purpose:</strong> The aim of the study was to assess the impact of telemedicine adoption on healthcare accessibility among rural populations in Uganda.</p> <p><strong>Methodology:</strong> This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.</p> <p><strong>Findings:</strong> The adoption of telemedicine has demonstrated a significant impact on improving healthcare accessibility among rural populations. By leveraging telecommunications technology, telemedicine has overcome geographical barriers, allowing rural residents to access healthcare services remotely. Telemedicine has led to a reduction in travel distances and associated costs for patients residing in remote areas, consequently increasing their access to medical consultations, specialist care, and follow-up appointments. Moreover, telemedicine has facilitated timely interventions for acute conditions, enhancing early diagnosis and treatment initiation, thereby preventing health complications and reducing the burden on rural healthcare facilities.</p> <p><strong>Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy:</strong>&nbsp; Diffusion of innovation theory, health belief model and social cognitive theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the impact of telemedicine adoption on healthcare accessibility among rural populations in Uganda. Strengthen telemedicine infrastructure and technology platforms in rural areas, ensuring reliable connectivity and user-friendly interfaces to facilitate seamless access to healthcare services.&nbsp; Advocate for policy reforms that support the expansion and sustainability of telemedicine services in rural areas, including reimbursement policies that incentivize telemedicine adoption among healthcare providers and payers.</p>

2024-04-07T00:00:00+03:00 Copyright (c) 2024 Ali Fadhul https://ajpojournals.org/journals/index.php/AJHMN/article/view/1911 2024-04-08T02:17:21+03:00 Sumari Chande info@ajpo.org

<p><strong>Purpose:</strong> The aim of the study was to assess the effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction programs on chronic pain management in elderly patients in Tanzania.</p> <p><strong>Methodology:</strong> This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.</p> <p><strong>Findings:</strong> The study observed that participation in MBSR programs led to notable improvements in pain reduction and overall well-being. The program, which incorporates mindfulness meditation, body awareness, and yoga practices, facilitated a significant decrease in reported pain levels among participants. Moreover, individuals undergoing MBSR reported enhanced coping mechanisms for managing pain-related distress, improved functional abilities, and greater satisfaction with their daily activities. These findings suggest that MBSR interventions hold considerable promise as an effective non-pharmacological approach to chronic pain management in the elderly population, offering holistic benefits beyond mere symptom alleviation.</p> <p><strong>Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy:</strong> Biopsychosocial model of pain, self-efficacy theory and neuroplasticity theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction programs on chronic pain management in elderly patients in Tanzania. Implement culturally adapted MBSR programs that take into account the unique needs, preferences, and cultural backgrounds of elderly patients. Advocate for the integration of MBSR programs into healthcare policies and guidelines for chronic pain management in elderly populations.</p>

2024-04-07T00:00:00+03:00 Copyright (c) 2024 Sumari Chande https://ajpojournals.org/journals/index.php/AJHMN/article/view/1914 2024-04-08T02:49:02+03:00 Aarar Patel info@ajpo.org

<p><strong>Purpose:</strong> The aim of the study was to assess the influence of socioeconomic factors on mental health service utilization among urban dwellers in India.</p> <p><strong>Methodology:</strong> This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.</p> <p><strong>Findings:</strong> Socioeconomic status (SES) was identified as a crucial determinant, with individuals from lower SES backgrounds being less likely to utilize mental health services compared to those from higher SES backgrounds. This disparity was attributed to various factors such as financial constraints, lack of access to appropriate healthcare facilities, and stigma associated with seeking mental health support.</p> <p><strong>Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy:</strong>&nbsp; Social determinants of health theory, health belief model and ecological systems theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the influence of socioeconomic factors on mental health service utilization among urban dwellers in India. Develop tailored interventions targeting specific socioeconomic barriers to mental health service utilization, such as affordability, transportation, and stigma reduction programs. Advocate for policy reforms that prioritize equitable access to mental healthcare services for all urban residents, regardless of socioeconomic status.</p>

2024-04-07T00:00:00+03:00 Copyright (c) 2024 Aarar Patel https://ajpojournals.org/journals/index.php/AJHMN/article/view/1912 2024-04-08T02:29:12+03:00 Pro. Kihoro Onesmus info@ajpo.org

<p><strong>Purpose:</strong> The aim of the study was to assess the efficacy of health education programs on smoking cessation among adolescents.</p> <p><strong>Methodology:</strong> This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.</p> <p><strong>Findings:</strong> The study revealed a strong evidence suggesting that well-designed health education interventions significantly contribute to reducing smoking rates among adolescents. These programs often employ a combination of informational sessions, skill-building exercises, and interactive activities to increase awareness about the health risks associated with smoking and to enhance adolescents' self-efficacy in resisting peer pressure to smoke. Moreover, studies consistently show that incorporating personalized feedback and tailored interventions, such as individual counseling or group therapy sessions, can further improve the effectiveness of smoking cessation programs for adolescents. These personalized approaches address the unique needs and motivations of each participant, thereby increasing their engagement and commitment to quitting smoking.</p> <p><strong>Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy:</strong>&nbsp; Social cognitive theory, theory of planned behavior and health belief model may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the efficacy of health education programs on smoking cessation among adolescents. The study emphasized the development and implementation of evidence-based, comprehensive health education programs tailored to the unique needs and preferences of adolescent populations. The study should advocate for the integration of effective health education programs into broader tobacco control policies and initiatives aimed at reducing adolescent smoking prevalence.</p>

2024-04-07T00:00:00+03:00 Copyright (c) 2024 Pro. Kihoro Onesmus https://ajpojournals.org/journals/index.php/AJHMN/article/view/1910 2024-04-07T22:38:31+03:00 Jabulani Malinga info@ajpo.org

<p><strong>Purpose:</strong> The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between nurse staffing levels and patient outcomes in intensive care units in South Africa.</p> <p><strong>Methodology:</strong> This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.</p> <p><strong>Findings:</strong> The study found that higher nurse-to-patient ratios were associated with improved patient outcomes, including reduced mortality rates, decreased rates of hospital-acquired infections, and fewer adverse events such as medication errors or patient falls. These outcomes suggest that adequate nurse staffing plays a crucial role in ensuring patient safety and quality of care within ICUs. Additionally, the study revealed that optimal nurse staffing levels not only positively impacted patient outcomes but also contributed to improved nurse job satisfaction and lower rates of burnout. This correlation underscores the importance of adequate staffing not only for patient well-being but also for the well-being of the nursing staff.</p> <p><strong>Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy:</strong> Contingency theory, resource dependency theory and social exchange theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the relationship between nurse staffing levels and patient outcomes in intensive care units in South Africa. Develop and implement tailored staffing models that account for patient acuity levels, workload complexity, and specific care needs within ICUs. Advocate for the establishment of standardized nurse-to-patient staffing ratios in ICUs based on evidence-based guidelines and best practices.</p>

2024-04-07T00:00:00+03:00 Copyright (c) 2024 Jabulani Malinga