Evaluation of Online Course Discussions: Faculty Facilitation of Active Student Learning

Graduate nursing faculty evaluated their initial experiences with online course discussions after making the transition from traditional use of weekly face-to-face classroom discussions to primarily computer-based interactions with students at distant sites. The online discussion data were analyzed qualitatively. The ways the faculty member communicated to facilitate active student involvement in the online discussions were coded. Six categories were identified that describe the ways the faculty member communicated to facilitate active student involvement in online discussions: assist with navigation, explain expectations, clarify faculty role, stimulate critical thinking, share expertise, and provide encouragement. Examples of each were provided to demonstrate ways faculty promoted student learning in online discussions

Rh Negative Status and Isoimmunization Update: A Case-Based Approach to Care

Prior to the 1970s and the advent of Rho (D) immune globulin (RIG) for Rh negative women, hemolytic disease of the newborn led to morbidity, long-term disabilities, and mortality. Antepartum RIG administration has been a standard of practice since 1983. Yet, Rh isoimmunization (sensitization) and its sequelae have not been completely eradicated. Rh-related issues remain clinical challenges facing perinatal and neonatal nurses. Evidence for the administration of RIG prenatally and during the postpartum period is presented including controversies and challenges. Current information about fetal and neonatal care of erythroblastosis fetalis and immune hydrops is also presented

Feasibility of Oral Prenatal Probiotics against Maternal Group B \u3cem\u3eStreptococcus\u3c/em\u3e Vaginal and Rectal Colonization

Objective To examine the effect of an oral prenatal probiotic on group B Streptococcus (GBS) colonization and to demonstrate the feasibility of a larger randomized controlled trial. Design This pilot study was an open‐label, two‐group quasi‐experiment. Setting An urban central city nurse‐midwifery and wellness center serving a diverse population. Participants Ten pregnant participants received the oral probiotic (Florajen3) taken once daily, and 10 participants served as controls. Methods A questionnaire on dietary practices, vaginal cleansing, sexual history, and symptoms and GBS colony count samples were taken at 28‐, 32‐, and 36‐weeks gestation. Results Participants in the probiotic group reported no adverse events or minor side effects; one half reported improved gastrointestinal symptoms. Although two women in each group had positive qualitative prenatal GBS cultures at 36 weeks, the probiotic group participants had lower quantitative GBS colony counts. The eight GBS negative averaged 90% probiotic adherence compared with two GBS positive women who averaged 68%. Yogurt ingestion was inversely related (p= .02) to GBS colonization. Conclusions Prenatal probiotic therapy has the potential to reduce GBS colonization. The potential of the probiotic intervention appears to be linked to daily adherence. A controlled clinical trial with a larger, adequately powered sample is feasible and justified

Couples\u27 Views of the Effects of Natural Family Planning on Marital Dynamics

Purpose: Natural Family Planning (NFP) requires periodic abstinence and partner cooperation to prevent pregnancy. The aim of this study was to learn about the effects of modern NFP methods on marital relationships. Design: Descriptive survey. Methods: Questionnaires were mailed to 1,400 randomly selected couples known to use NFP and residing in the United States of America; 334 couples (24%) responded. Content analysis was used to identify meanings and themes. Numeric analyses were used to determine frequencies. Findings: Nearly two-thirds of the qualitative comments were positive. Four themes were identified in the positive responses: relationship enhancements, knowledge improvements, spirituality enrichments, and method successes. Three negative themes were identified: strained sexual interactions, worsened relationships, and method problems. Although about onefourth of the comments indicated that NFP presented challenges, the majority (74%) found it beneficial, often resulting in stronger bonds, better communication, and improved knowledge. Conclusions: NFP had more positive than negative effects and its use warrants further consideration

Reactions of Low-Income African American Women to Breastfeeding Peer Counselors

Objective To examine the influence of breastfeeding peer counseling on the breastfeeding experiences of African American mothers who participated in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). Design Qualitative study using focus groups. Setting Two WIC clinics in Southeast Wisconsin were used for recruitment and data collection. Participants A convenience sample of nine African American mothers participated in one of two focus groups. Methods The women responded to a series of open-ended questions about their breastfeeding experiences and the effect of breastfeeding peer counselors (BPCs). Content and thematic analyses were used to analyze patterns related to the influence of BPCs on breastfeeding. Results Four themes were categorized: Educating With Truth, Validating for Confidence, Countering Others\u27 Negativity, and Supporting With Solutions. Mothers in this study expressed positive reactions to educational, emotional, and social support from BPCs. The mothers noted that the contact they had with BPCs had a direct positive influence on their breastfeeding experiences. However, the contact from BPCs varied between the two WIC clinics. Conclusion The findings demonstrate the positive effects of BPCs on breastfeeding experiences among African American WIC participants. Findings from this study can guide future explorations using BPCs. Interventions are needed to develop standardized guidelines to bring about homogeneity of, better access to, and greater use of BPCs