scholarly journals “The most lonely condition I can imagine”: Psychosocial impacts of endometriosis on women’s identity

2020 ◽  
pp. 095935352093060
Author(s):  
Jennifer M Cole ◽  
Sarah Grogan ◽  
Emma Turley
Keyword(s):  
Chronic Pain ◽  
Social Relationships ◽  
Thematic Analysis ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Physical Symptoms ◽  
Role Expectations ◽  
Social Connections ◽  
Women's Identity ◽  
Psychosocial Impacts

Endometriosis is a condition which affects around 1–2% of women worldwide and has profound effects on their everyday lives. Previous research has tended to focus on physical symptoms (such as chronic pain); how women manage changes to their identity and relationships as a result of endometriosis has received less attention. This paper discusses qualitative data examining how women negotiate changes to identity while living with endometriosis, in a social context where women are expected to minimise their symptoms and conform to feminine role expectations. We conducted thematic analysis of 34 replies to an online survey seeking qualitative text responses. The women identified disruptions to personal identity as a result of living with endometriosis. They talked about not feeling like themselves (Theme 1) and about reactions from medical and social connections prompting feelings that they were going “mad” (Theme 2). Participants also expressed feeling as though they were a burden to loved ones (Theme 3), which often resulted in self-silencing (Theme 4). Findings are discussed in the context of Western expectations of women’s roles in social relationships and suggest that professionals who support women with endometriosis should be aware of strategies such as self-silencing which may reduce effective self-care.

scholarly journals Serious Impacts of Postponing Bariatric Surgery as a Result of the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Patient Perspective

2021 ◽  
Vol 8 ◽  
pp. 237437352110082
Author(s):  
Babur Ahmed ◽  
Mohammad Altarawni ◽  
Jodi Ellison ◽  
Bilal H Alkhaffaf
Keyword(s):  
Bariatric Surgery ◽  
Health Care ◽  
Weight Loss ◽  
Thematic Analysis ◽  
Patient Perspective ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Elective Surgery ◽  
Physical Symptoms ◽  
Psychological Effects

Background: The global COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the widespread suspension of bariatric surgical programs. Although this rapid adaption was initially necessary, the implications of delaying the most effective treatment for weight loss in a population at risk from this crisis are not well known. Moreover, as the health care trusts plan the reintroduction of elective services, it is vital to also consider the patient’s perspectives, to adequately weigh up the benefits and risks of this recommencement in the current climate. Objectives: We aimed to investigate the impacts that postponing bariatric surgery has had on patients, and their priorities when restarting elective surgery. Methods: An online survey of patients awaiting surgery was undertaken, examining the physical and psychological impacts of pandemic isolation policies and postponing surgery, and exploring patient preferences regarding surgery during the pandemic. Results: Of 71 patients, 67.6% gained a median of 4 kg (interquartile range: 2.6-6.4), and 74.6% had adverse psychological effects; 93.0% were keen to proceed with surgery. Thematic analysis of qualitative data revealed delays have worsened physical symptoms, increased anxiety, and delayed secondary life-altering treatments. Conclusion: From the patient’s perspective, postponing surgery has been deleterious and efforts to safely reintroduce bariatric programs should be promoted.

scholarly journals Codesigning a supportive online resource for Australian cancer carers: a thematic analysis of informal carers’ and healthcare professionals’ perspectives about carers’ responsibilities and content needs

BMJ Open ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (10) ◽  
pp. e055026
Author(s):  
Sharnel Miriam Perera ◽  
Clare O’Callaghan ◽  
Anna Ugalde ◽  
Olinda Santin ◽  
Cassandra Beer ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Thematic Analysis ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Healthcare Professionals ◽  
Telephone Interview ◽  
Rural And Urban ◽  
Online Resource ◽  
Informal Carers ◽  
Informal Supports ◽  
User Friendly

ObjectiveTo gather preliminary qualitative data that will assist in the codesign and development of a new informational and supportive website to assist informal cancer carers in Australia.Design and settingUtilising a previously tested codesign process, informal carers’ experiences and perspectives, including those of healthcare professionals’, were examined via focus groups and/or interviews. Data were analysed via thematic analysis.ParticipantsRural (n=9) and urban (n=11) carers’, and healthcare professionals’ (n=8) perspectives were collected. Carers participated in a focus group (n=9) or telephone interview (n=11). Healthcare professionals completed an interview (n=6) or online survey (n=2).ResultsRural and urban carers typically felt ill prepared for their multitudinal caregiving responsibilities. Supporting patient-to-healthcare professional liaisons could especially challenge. Carers’ biopsychosocial and fiscal strains were affected by patients’ hardships and available informal supports. Rural carers described greater social support than urban carers. Both rural and urban carers also described discontentment related to a carer neglecting healthcare system. Both carers and healthcare professionals endorsed the need for a user-friendly, carer-specific website encompassing practical information and resources, peer-driven advice and evidence-based illness information, tailored to the Australian context.ConclusionsCarers and healthcare professionals recognise the pressing need for an Australian, cancer carer-specific online resource. Findings will inform the next phase, where a resource will be designed, developed and tested.

scholarly journals Motivations and expectations for using cannabis products to treat pain in humans and dogs: a mixed methods study

2020 ◽  
Vol 2 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jean E. Wallace ◽  
Lori R. Kogan ◽  
Eloise C. J. Carr ◽  
Peter W. Hellyer
Keyword(s):  
Chronic Pain ◽  
Pain Management ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Sense Of Self ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Cannabis Use ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Chi Square ◽  
Dog Owners

Abstract Background Social media and academic literature suggest that more people are using cannabis to treat their own or their dog’s chronic pain. This study identifies the reasons people use cannabis products to treat their own pain or their dog’s pain and explores whether these products have fulfilled their expectations. Methods An anonymous, online survey was used to collect quantitative and qualitative self-report data on respondents’ perceptions, motivations and expectations about their or their dog’s chronic pain and cannabis use. The analyses are based on U.S. adults who reported using cannabis products to treat their own (N = 313) or their dog’s (N = 204) chronic pain. Quantitative responses from the two groups were compared using Chi-Square tests and qualitative data were analyzed using a thematic analysis. Results Human patients and dog owners reported similar motivations for using cannabis products to treat chronic pain, with the more popular reasons being that cannabis products are natural, are preferred over conventional medication, are believed to be the best treatment or good treatment option for pain. Similar proportions of human patients and dog owners reported that the use of cannabis products fulfilled their expectations (86% vs. 82% respectively, χ2 (1, 200) = .59, p = .32). The qualitative data revealed that their expectations were met by reducing pain, increasing relaxation, and improving sleep, coping, functionality and overall well being. Additionally, the qualitative data suggests that cannabis products offer a return to normalcy and a restored sense of self to human and dog patients. Conclusions The results suggest that people choose cannabis products because they are natural and a possible solution to managing chronic pain when conventional medicines have not been effective. Most people report that their expectations regarding pain management are fulfilled by these products. More accurate assessments are vital, however, for understanding both the objective biomedical and subjective socioemotional benefits of cannabis products for effective pain management for human and dog patients. In addition, objective factual information regarding cannabis products for effective pain management in humans and dogs is needed. It is recommended that both physicians and veterinarians work towards feeling more comfortable proactively broaching the subject of cannabis use with additional training and education.

scholarly journals Starting from the Same Spot: Exploring Mindfulness Meditation and Student Transitions in the Introductory Health Promotion Classroom

2021 ◽  
Vol 44 (1) ◽  
pp. 256-276
Author(s):  
Madison MacQuarrie ◽  
Nicole Blinn ◽  
Samantha MacLellan ◽  
Megan Flynn ◽  
Jessie Meisner ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Health Promotion ◽  
Data Collection ◽  
Student Perceptions ◽  
Thematic Analysis ◽  
Classroom Environment ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Mindfulness Meditation ◽  
Qualitative Data Collection

The purpose of this research was to explore student perceptions of mindfulness meditation (MM) in an introductory health promotion course, and how the use of MM during class might relate to the transitions experienced by students. Qualitative data collection took place through an online survey and in-person interviews. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Four key themes were identified from this research. First, that MM facilitates a sense of peace and calm; second, that MM encourages students to focus; third, MM helps promote student mental health; and finally, MM positively changes the classroom environment. Challenges and recommendations were also described. Keywords: mindfulness, meditation, university, transitions

Parent/Caregiver Narratives of Challenges Related to Raising Transgender and/or Nonbinary Youth

2021 ◽  
pp. 0192513X2110444
Author(s):  
Sabra L. Katz-Wise ◽  
Sally Campbell Galman ◽  
Lauren E. Friedman ◽  
Kacie M. Kidd
Keyword(s):  
Identity Development ◽  
Thematic Analysis ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Individual Characteristics ◽  
Caregiver Support ◽  
Factors Affecting ◽  
Qualitative And Quantitative ◽  
Parent Caregivers

Parents/caregivers of transgender and/or nonbinary (TNB) youth (those who identify with a different gender than the gender typically associated with their assigned sex) may experience secondary stigma related to their child’s TNB identity. However, parent/caregiver support is critical for TNB youth’s mental health. This study explored attitudes and challenges faced by parents/caregivers of TNB youth. Data were from 27 parents/caregivers of TNB youth who completed an anonymous online survey with qualitative and quantitative measures. Qualitative data were analyzed using immersion/crystallization and thematic analysis approaches. Six themes were developed from the data: TNB youth individual characteristics/experiences, societal and other external factors affecting parent/caregivers’ future outlook, TNB identity development and transition, TNB-related social and institutional interactions, parent/caregivers’ supportive cognitions and behaviors, and parent/caregivers’ challenging cognitions. Findings from this study can inform efforts to support parents/caregivers of TNB youth, which can ultimately support the well-being of TNB youth themselves.

Extent of and Reasons for Vaccine Hesitancy in Adults at High-Risk for Pneumococcal Disease

2021 ◽  
pp. 089011712199814
Author(s):  
Justin Gatwood ◽  
Madison McKnight ◽  
Kelsey Frederick ◽  
Kenneth Hohmeier ◽  
Shiyar Kapan ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
High Risk ◽  
Thematic Analysis ◽  
Pneumococcal Disease ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Response Rate ◽  
Vaccine Hesitancy ◽  
Provider Education ◽  
Free Response ◽  
Cross Sectional

Purpose: To determine the extent of and reasons for hesitancy toward vaccination among adults at high-risk for pneumococcal disease. Design: Cross-sectional. Setting: Online survey in March-April 2019 via QuestionPro. Subjects: Tennessee adults (18-64 years) at high-risk of pneumococcal disease (n = 1,002). Measures: Modified version of the validated Vaccine Hesitancy Scale assessed vaccine-related beliefs, reasons for hesitancy, external influences on vaccination, and prior vaccination Analysis: Descriptive and inferential statistics provided an overview of the responses and comparisons among subgroups. Logistic regression determined the odds of being hesitant using the listed beliefs and influencers as predictors. Thematic analysis was performed on the qualitative data gathered from free response questions throughout the survey. Results: Analysis included 1,002 complete responses (12% response rate [total viewed = 8,331]) with 34.3% indicating hesitancy toward one or more recommended vaccinations, with 53% of which indicating hesitancy to the pneumococcal vaccine despite it being recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) for all respondents. The odds of vaccine hesitancy or resistance were higher in minorities (OR: 1.6; 95% CI: 1.19-2.11), those not believing others like them get vaccinated (OR: 1.82; 95% CI: 1.262-2.613), and respondents recalling negative media about vaccines (OR: 2.56; 95% CI: 1.797-3.643). Conclusions: Patients at high-risk of pneumococcal disease lack awareness of the need for the recommended vaccine, and provider education may need improving to increase vaccination in this population.

GPs’ experience of safeguarding in care homes: what do they see and what do they do?

2020 ◽  
Vol 70 (suppl 1) ◽  
pp. bjgp20X711269
Author(s):  
Elisabeth Alton ◽  
Caroline White
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Care Home ◽  
Health Needs ◽  
Care Homes ◽  
Electronic Records ◽  
Multiple Relationships ◽  
Home Context ◽  
Emerging Themes ◽  
Multiple Health

BackgroundAbuse of older people in care homes is an on-going problem. GPs, as the most frequent practitioner group visiting care homes, have an important role in detecting and reporting abuse. However, there is little research about GPs’ experiences of working in care homes and how they work to safeguard residents.AimTo explore the challenges experienced by GPs working in this unique environment and how these impact on safeguarding.MethodAn online survey collected qualitative data about GPs’ experiences as visiting professionals to care homes, with an emphasis on safeguarding. A thematic analysis identified key themes.ResultsIn total, 58 completed surveys were returned, with a range of practitioner experience represented (1–30 years). Approximately 70% were GP partners, with the remainder salaried and locum doctors. Over one third reported they had witnessed signs of definite or possible abuse within care homes. Emerging themes related to the complex care home context, in which residents had multiple health needs and GPs had to build multiple relationships with managers, carers, families, and residents. Difficulties in accessing information were reported; residents could not always provide information, GPs had to rely on others for information, and rarely had access to electronic records.ConclusionGP work in care homes is a complex and skilled role, in which GPs encounter evidence of poor care and abuse. Key themes in respect of barriers and facilitators of good care were highlighted. The reliance on others for information and the need to build relationships with staff/managers may raise tensions in respect of safeguarding practice.

scholarly journals Patients referred to a German TMD-specialized consultation hour—a retrospective on patients without a diagnosis according to RDC/TMD decision trees

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Angelika Rauch ◽  
Sebastian Hahnel ◽  
Anita Kloss-Brandstätter ◽  
Oliver Schierz
Keyword(s):  
Chronic Pain ◽  
Oral Health ◽  
Decision Trees ◽  
Temporomandibular Disorders ◽  
Depression Scale ◽  
Health Impact ◽  
Physical Symptoms ◽  
Pain Scale ◽  
Related Quality ◽  
Health Related

Abstract Objectives The objective was to describe the physical and psychosocial features of patients attending a specialized consultation hour for temporomandibular disorders (TMD). This investigation focused on those patients who did not receive a diagnosis according to the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD). Materials and methods From 2004 to 2017, patients seeking care during a TMD-specialized consultation hour were consecutively recruited. Each patient completed a TMD-related questionnaire, psychosocial questionnaires (Graded Chronic Pain Scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Beschwerden-Liste), and the Oral Health Impact Profile-49. The clinical examination was performed according to the RDC/TMD. Results The mean age of the 1020 patients was 43.3 years (75.3% female). According to the RDC/TMD decision trees, 351 patients were categorized without a TMD diagnosis (NoTMDdx). The most frequent reasons for seeking care were orofacial pain/TMJ pain or headaches revealing an OR of 1.89 (for TMDdx group). A relevant proportion of patients was categorized as positive for anxiety (NoTMDdx/TMDdx 30.8/41.2%; p = 0.072), depression (20.8/23.9%; p = 0.433), non-specific physical symptoms (31.4/44.1%; p < 0.001), or dysfunctional chronic pain (11.5/18.2%; p < 0.001). In both patient groups, the oral health-related quality of life was impaired (42.9/52.7 points; p < 0.001), and the frequency of therapy measures prior to the consultation hour was high. Conclusions Patients seeking care from TMD specialists were usually referred with TMD-associated symptoms. Of those, a relevant proportion did not receive a diagnosis according to RDC/TMD decision trees. Clinical relevance Psychosocial screening and the avoidance of overtreatment are recommended for patients with TMD-related symptoms.

A Systematic Review of Assessments and Interventions for Chronic Pain in Young Children With or at High Risk for Cerebral Palsy

2021 ◽  
pp. 088307382199691
Author(s):  
Lisa Letzkus ◽  
Darcy Fehlings ◽  
Lauren Ayala ◽  
Rachel Byrne ◽  
Alison Gehred ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Chronic Pain ◽  
Cerebral Palsy ◽  
High Risk ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Botulinum Toxin Type A ◽  
Botulinum Toxin Type ◽  
Parent Report ◽  
Medical Cannabis ◽  
Nonpharmacologic Intervention

Background: Pain is common in children with cerebral palsy. The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the evidence regarding assessments and interventions for chronic pain in children aged ≤2 years with or at high risk for cerebral palsy. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed. Included articles were screened using PRISMA guidelines and quality of evidence was reviewed using best-evidence tools by independent reviewers. Using social media channels, an online survey was conducted to elicit parent preferences. Results: Six articles met criteria. Parent perception was an assessment option. Three pharmacologic interventions (gabapentin, medical cannabis, botulinum toxin type A) and 1 nonpharmacologic intervention were identified. Parent survey report parent-comfort and other nonpharmacologic interventions ranked as most preferable. Conclusion: A conditional GRADE recommendation was in favor of parent report for pain assessment. Clinical trials are sorely needed because of the lack of evidence for safety and efficacy of pharmacologic interventions.

Measurement of Perceived Interpersonal and Societal Anti-Muslim Discrimination in the United States

Assessment ◽  
2020 ◽  
pp. 107319112097338
Author(s):  
Naheed Ahmed
Keyword(s):  
United States ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
High Reliability ◽  
The United States ◽  
Discrimination Index ◽  
Muslim Americans ◽  
Study Results ◽  
Development And Validation ◽  
Component Models

Background: Hate crimes against Muslim Americans have increased exponentially in the past 20 years, but there is currently no scale for measuring perceived anti-Muslim discrimination in the United States. To fill this gap, this study used a mixed-method approach to develop scales for measuring perceived anti-Muslim discrimination. Method: Qualitative data informed the development and validation of the 19-item Societal Anti-Muslim Discrimination Index and the 9-item Interpersonal Anti-Muslim Discrimination Index. Quantitative data ( N = 347) were collected from Muslim Americans using an online survey and used to assess the anti-Muslim indexes. Results: Qualitative data contributed to the refinement scale items. Quantitative results indicated one-component models and modest to high reliability of the Interpersonal Anti-Muslim Discrimination Index (.77) and Societal Anti-Muslim Discrimination Index (.88) scales. Discussion: Study results established the validity of these novel scales for measuring the distinct facets of anti-Muslim discrimination not captured by the Everyday Discrimination Index. These scales will facilitate research on anti-Muslim discrimination and the health implications of this form of religious-based discrimination.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document