Individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are commonly diagnosed when they are between the ages of 18–29, a developmental period known as emerging adulthood. Typically, emerging adults are ...subsumed into the category of adults even though emerging adults have unique developmental needs. In this descriptive study of IBD in emerging adults, the aims were to (a) determine the prevalence of symptoms; (b) describe the severity of symptoms and their interference with daily activities; and (c) examine the association between individual symptom severity and presence of fatigue. Emerging adults with IBD were recruited using web‐based convenience sampling. Sixty‐one individuals met the inclusion criteria. They had a mean age of 24.7 and a disease duration of 6.4 years. The most prevalent symptoms reported were: fatigue (n = 44, 72.1%), abdominal cramps (n = 39, 63.9%), abdominal pain (n = 39, 63.9%), and diarrhea (n = 38, 62.3%). The symptom with the greatest severity and interference with daily activities was fatigue. Abdominal cramps, abdominal pain, diarrhea, passing gas, and abdominal tenderness were associated with fatigue when controlling for age, emerging adulthood, gender, time since diagnosis, and current steroid use. Among emerging adults with IBD, fatigue is the most prevalent symptom and is the symptom with the greatest severity and interference with daily activities. These results suggest a need for interventions aimed at reducing both fatigue and gastrointestinal symptoms among emerging adults with IBD.
Background: The emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants calls for more data on SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine response. Aims: We aimed to assess the response to a third mRNA vaccine dose against SARS-CoV-2 in ...inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients. Methods: This was a single-center, observational prospective study of IBD patients who received a third mRNA vaccine dose against SARS-CoV-2. Antibody titers were taken post-third-dose at one and three months using the Roche Elecsys anti-SARS-CoV-2-S enzyme immunoassay. Titers less than 0.8 units/mL were considered negative according to the manufactures. Titers between 0.8 units/mL and 250 units/mL were considered non-neutralizing. Titers greater than 250 units/mL were considered neutralizing. Results: Eighty-three patients were included, all of whom had detectable antibodies at 3 months post-third dose. A total of 89% showed neutralizing and 11% non-neutralizing titers. Participants with non-neutralizing titers were more likely to be on systemic corticosteroids (p = 0.04). Two participants seroconverted from negative to positive, whereas 86% with non-neutralizing titers boosted to neutralizing levels. Only one participant with neutralizing titers after a third dose had a decrease to a non-neutralizing level within 3 months. Conclusions: Our findings support the ongoing recommendations for additional doses in immunocompromised individuals. However, longitudinal studies with a greater-sized patient population are needed.
Designed as a textbook for the DNP curriculum and as a practical resource for more seasoned health professionals, this acclaimed text encompasses an interprofessional approach to translating evidence ...into nursing and health care practice that is useful for both clinical and nonclinical environments. The second edition presents six new chapters, three of which feature additional approaches for translating evidence into practice, new methods of information technology for translation, and interprofessional collaboration and teamwork for translation. The three additional chapters offer 18 exemplars that illustrate actual translation work within the areas of population health and specialty practice, and in the health care system. Consistently woven throughout are the themes of integration and application of knowledge into practice, leadership and evaluating change, leadership strategies for translation, and interprofessional applications across settings. Also included is new information about outcomes management for improvement of direct and indirect care. The second edition continues to deliver applicable theory and strategies to achieve improved outcomes, and meets the DNP core competency requirements. It features a variety of models for change as they relate to translation of research into practice. The text underscores the importance of translating evidence for use in practice to improve health care and health care delivery, and presents strategies to achieve this. It addresses the use of evidence to improve nursing education, discusses how to reduce the divide between researchers and policy makers, and presents expedients for overcoming resistance to change. Extensive lists of references, web links, and other resources enhance learning and support the development of the DNP core competencies.
The number of nurse practitioners (NP) entering pediatric gastroenterology is increasing. Most nurse practitioners acquire knowledge and skills through special NP fellowship programs and on-the-job ...training. However, professional competencies have yet to be defined or standardized. The authors sought to evaluate subspecialty nursing organizations' role in developing education programs that improve NP preparation for practice. Nurse Practitioners completed an assessment survey to determine the need for an education program and the type of education program desired. Based on the survey feedback, the authors created a pediatric gastroenterology-focused education program through the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP) in partnership with the Association of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition Nurses (APGNN). A pre-test/post-test design was utilized to determine knowledge obtainment. Post-test knowledge scores supported the program's ability to increase preparation. A post-test score increase was noted among new NPs and those who were members of specialty organizations. The development, implementation, and evaluation of standardized competencies and education programs through specialty organizations should be considered.