Кваліфікаційні роботи. Спеціальність 223 Медсестринство

RADIATION EXPOSURE OF THE OPERATING ASSISTANT NURSE DURING INVASIVE CORONARY ANGIOGRAPHY: Guidelines for Risk Mitigation

2026-01-22T01:00:39Z

RADIATION EXPOSURE OF THE OPERATING ASSISTANT NURSE DURING INVASIVE CORONARY ANGIOGRAPHY: Guidelines for Risk Mitigation Motylev, Igor This study investigates the radiation exposure faced by operating assistant nurses during invasive coronary angiography, a crucial yet understudied area in healthcare. Through qualitative analysis of secondary sources, this thesis explores the risks posed by ionizing radiation, particularly during procedures like coronary angiography, angioplasty and stent placements, which heavily rely on fluoroscopy. The research aims to assess the level of exposure to circulating and monitoring nurses, evaluate the effectiveness of current safety protocols, and identify barriers to compliance. By reviewing the available literature and expert opinions, this study highlights gaps in radiation safety awareness and proposes evidence-based recommendations to reduce risks for operating assistant nurses. The findings contribute to enhancing workplace safety protocols, ensuring better protection for healthcare workers in environments involving radiation exposure.

Nursing Strategies to Improve Disease Awareness and Lifestyle in Patients with Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)

2026-01-22T01:00:25Z

Nursing Strategies to Improve Disease Awareness and Lifestyle in Patients with Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) Yatsko, Tetiana Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is an increasingly prevalent chronic liver condition strongly associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and other components of metabolic syndrome. Despite its growing public health significance, patient awareness about MASLD remains low, and lifestyle modification—a cornerstone of disease management—is frequently underutilized. Nurses play a vital role in educating and motivating patients toward sustainable behavioral changes that may delay disease progression and reduce long-term complications. This master’s thesis explores the effectiveness of nurse-led strategies in improving disease awareness and encouraging lifestyle modification among patients with MASLD. The primary aim is to assess whether structured educational interventions delivered by nurses can improve patient knowledge, health literacy, and adherence to recommended lifestyle changes, including diet, physical activity, and weight control. The specific objectives of the study are: (1) to assess baseline knowledge and lifestyle behaviors of patients diagnosed with MASLD, (2) to identify educational gaps and barriers to lifestyle change, (3) to develop and implement a targeted nurse-led intervention, (4) to evaluate its impact on patient awareness, motivation, and behavior, and (5) to generate evidence-based recommendations for integrating such strategies into everyday nursing practice. A quantitative observational study design was applied. Eighty-five adult patients diagnosed with MASLD were recruited from a gastroenterology outpatient clinic. Data were collected using a structured pre-intervention questionnaire assessing knowledge, lifestyle behaviors, and readiness for change. The educational intervention included personalized counseling by nurses, visual materials, goal-setting strategies, and follow-up sessions over a 2-month period. After the intervention, the same questionnaire was repeated to assess changes in knowledge and lifestyle habits. Preliminary findings suggest a significant improvement in disease awareness and motivation for lifestyle change post-intervention. Patients reported better understanding of MASLD and increased willingness to adopt healthier behaviors. Additionally, nurse-patient communication was enhanced, and many participants expressed satisfaction with the support provided by nursing staff. This study highlights the key role nurses play in patient education and behavior change, particularly in managing chronic metabolic conditions such as MASLD. The findings support the inclusion of structured educational strategies into standard nursing care for patients at risk of liver-related morbidity. Further research is recommended to assess long-term adherence and to evaluate the scalability of such interventions across diverse clinical settings. Abbreviations: MASLD – Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease; NAFLD – Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease; BMI – Body Mass Index; QoL – Quality of Life; HCC – Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Cognitive stimulation as part of nursing care in geriatrics: approaches and effectiveness

2026-01-22T01:00:34Z

Cognitive stimulation as part of nursing care in geriatrics: approaches and effectiveness Kussen, Elena The research highlights a significant prevalence of cognitive impairment and associated modifiable risk factors, including chronic diseases, psycho-emotional disorders, social isolation, and low cognitive and physical activity, among elderly individuals receiving home nursing care. In response, nursing care plays a crucial, multifaceted role, encompassing early screening for cognitive decline and depression, followed by the systematic implementation of various interventions. These include structured cognitive exercises targeting attention, memory, and executive functions, as well as indirect support through breathing techniques to manage stress and anxiety, and comprehensive assistance from home health aides. The integrated approach of home care agencies, leveraging multidisciplinary teams and a structured nursing process, proves vital in mitigating cognitive decline, improving patients' quality of life, and fostering greater functional independence within their home environment. The goal of the research is to develop and implement a system of nursing interventions aimed at supporting cognitive health in older people in order to improve their quality of life. The research methodology includes literature analysis, quantitative research (surveys and cognitive state assessment) using validated instruments (Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS-17) ), practical implementation of a pilot program. The obtained results can be used for further development of geriatric care training programs for nursing students. The proposed typology of cognitive interventions can be used as a theoretical basis for future research in the field of nursing. Implementation of regular cognitive screening for patients aged 65+ in healthcare facilities. Integration of nursing programs for cognitive health support into the daily practice of long-term care institutions (nursing homes, assisted living facilities). Conducting training for nurses on recognizing early signs of cognitive decline and implementing preventive interventions. Creation of interdisciplinary teams, including nurses, social workers, psychologists, and doctors, to develop individualized plans for supporting cognitive functioning

Psychological and emotional support for patients in the intensive care unit: the role of the nurse

2026-01-22T01:00:53Z

Psychological and emotional support for patients in the intensive care unit: the role of the nurse Kliuikova, Elena Patients admitted to Intensive Care Units (ICUs) face extraordinary physiological and psychological stressors that may significantly affect their short- and long-term well-being. While the primary focus in ICU care traditionally centers on physiological stabilization and life support, an increasing body of evidence suggests that psychological and emotional dimensions are equally crucial to patient recovery. The complex and often overwhelming ICU environment can precipitate a range of psychological reactions including anxiety, fear, confusion, hallucinations, and emotional detachment. These experiences, if left unaddressed, may contribute to long-lasting psychological morbidity, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and post-intensive care syndrome (PICS). This master’s thesis explores the critical role that nurses play in providing psychological and emotional support to ICU patients, with a particular focus on the ICU at Kindred Hospital South Florida, Hollywood. Nurses are uniquely positioned to recognize and respond to the psychosocial needs of critically ill patients due to their close proximity, continuous presence, and holistic approach to care. However, despite the acknowledged importance of emotional support, many ICU settings continue to lack formal protocols, adequate training, and institutional emphasis on the emotional care dimension. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness, scope, and limitations of nurse-led psychological and emotional support in the ICU. The study seeks to understand current practices, identify common challenges encountered by ICU nurses, and explore patients' perceptions of the emotional care received. Through both qualitative and quantitative methods, the study gathers evidence that informs best practices and policy recommendations for improving the psychosocial climate of critical care environments. The study was conducted at Kindred Hospital South Florida, Hollywood ICU, and involved both nursing staff and recently discharged ICU patients. Data were collected through structured interviews, self-reported questionnaires, and observational checklists. Nurses were asked to describe their approach to emotional support, perceived challenges, and institutional facilitators or obstacles. Patients, in turn, reflected on their ICU experience, their emotional state during hospitalization, and the perceived impact of nursing interventions on their psychological well-being. Findings from the study reveal that emotional distress is nearly universal among ICU patients, although its intensity and expression vary widely. Common stressors identified include fear of death, feelings of helplessness, loss of control, physical pain, communication difficulties, and sleep deprivation. Patients who received consistent and compassionate emotional support from nurses reported lower levels of fear and anxiety, stronger trust in the care team, and a more positive overall ICU experience. Nurses employed a range of emotional support strategies, including therapeutic communication, presence at the bedside, empathetic listening, touch, patient advocacy, and reassurance. However, nurses also reported substantial barriers to providing consistent emotional support, such as high workload, insufficient staffing, limited training in psychological care, and lack of formal institutional guidelines or protocols addressing psychosocial needs. Importantly, the study identified that nurse-patient interactions characterized by active listening, continuity of care, and respect for patient dignity had the strongest positive impact on emotional well-being. Conversely, patients who experienced abrupt care transitions, lack of communication, or impersonal interactions were more likely to report emotional detachment and persistent psychological symptoms post-discharge. The findings of this research underscore the urgent need to integrate structured emotional support into the standard ICU nursing practice. To this end, the study proposes a multifaceted nursing framework that includes: • Incorporating emotional assessment tools into routine ICU patient evaluations; • Providing training programs for nurses focused on psychological first aid, trauma-informed care, and therapeutic communication; • Embedding emotional care protocols into ICU guidelines and nursing workflows; • Strengthening nurse-patient continuity to foster trust and individualized care; • Establishing institutional recognition and support for emotional care as a core component of ICU nursing. The scientific novelty of this work lies in its practical, real-world exploration of emotional support practices in the ICU, a subject often underrepresented in clinical guidelines despite its significance. By grounding the study in firsthand observations and experiences from a functioning ICU in the United States, the research provides valuable insights into both the universal and context-specific dimensions of psychosocial care in critical settings. From a practical standpoint, the outcomes of this study offer actionable recommendations for healthcare institutions, nursing educators, and policy-makers seeking to improve the quality and humanity of intensive care services. The results also highlight the need for ongoing interdisciplinary collaboration between nurses, psychologists, physicians, and families to ensure holistic and compassionate care delivery. In conclusion, this thesis affirms that emotional and psychological support is not a secondary aspect of critical care but a central, therapeutic intervention essential for the well-being and recovery of ICU patients. Nurses have both the potential and responsibility to deliver this care, but to do so effectively, they require institutional support, appropriate training, and systemic integration of emotional care principles into ICU practice. Recognizing and addressing the emotional needs of patients can transform the ICU experience from one of fear and isolation to one of dignity, compassion, and healing.

Improving nursing process in palliative medicine

2026-01-22T01:00:26Z

Improving nursing process in palliative medicine Bazarova, Sitora Palliative medicine, with its primary goal of alleviating patient suffering, plays an important role in the health system, since it is aimed at improving the quality of life in patients with severe, chronic or incurable illness. The present study is dedicated to exploring the specific aspects of the nursing process in palliative care, as well as the psychoemotional well-being of palliative care nurses and their role in improving the quality of life of palliative patients and their families. The aim of the study is a comprehensive investigation into the psychoemotional state of nurses working in palliative medicine, with an emphasis on detection of psychosomatic and psychological disorders, analysis of sources of stress in their professional activity, as well as developing and evaluating practical approaches to improving the quality of life in palliative patients and their families with involvement of nurses. The study has considered three key series: the first series was designed to identify psychosomatic and psychological disorders in nurses; the second series was designed to explore the sources of stress in their professional activities, and the third series was designed for evaluation of effectiveness of nursing interventions in improving the quality of life of patients and their families. In the course of the study, methods such as survey, questionnaires and qualitative analysis, as well as statistical methods of data processing were used. The results of the first series have shown that a significant part of nurses have signs and symptoms such as anxiety, depression, insomnia and psychosomatic disorders. The second series has identified the main sources of stress such as witnessing suffering of the patients, interactions with their families and organizational difficulties. The third series has shown that nursing interventions substantially improve symptom control in the patients, ensure psychological and spiritual support, and help families learn how to care for their sick members. The data obtained underscore the importance of developing strategies to prevent burnout in nurses and refinement of nursing process in palliative care to improve the quality of care and support provided to patients and their families.

Prone to recovery- evaluating the effectiveness of positional therapy in managing covid-19 respiratory distress

2026-01-22T01:01:30Z

Prone to recovery- evaluating the effectiveness of positional therapy in managing covid-19 respiratory distress Jang, Junghwa This thesis analyzes the clinical effectiveness of prone positioning used as a form of positional therapy in managing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) among COVID-19 patients. The emphasis was undertaken in order to ascertain the patient characteristics affecting outcomes based on timing and duration of treatment. The work further evaluates prone positioning against various interventions such as high-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO) and Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). This study addresses a critical clinical gap in managing patients with COVID-19- induced ARDS, particularly in low-resource settings where invasive ventilation or ECMO may not be readily available. By focusing on the practical application and measurable outcomes of prone positioning in combination with non-invasive therapies that can guide front-line decision-making and optimize patient care during public health crises. Study Purpose: to study the huge demand on healthcare systems triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic that brought about the need for design and provision of inexpensive and scalable solutions for managing severe respiratory distress. Objectives: 1) To what extent does prone positioning help COVID-19 patients' respiratory function. 2) To evaluate whether prone positioning can diminish reliance on invasive mechanical ventilation when compared to HFNO and ECMO. 3) To examine the impact of early and consistent implementation of prone positioning on patient mortality. 4) To Analyze how patient-specific factors, such as BMI and comorbidities, influence the outcomes of prone positioning. 5) To assess the clinical utility of prone positioning as a cost-effective, non-resource healthcare settings. Object of the Research: to assess the clinical effectiveness of application of prone positioning in improving outcomes for patients with ARDS in COVID-19. Subject of the Research: Hospitalized patients diagnosed with intubated and non-intubated patients with COVID-19 who received prone positioning therapy within hospital settings [2]. Methods: A systematic review approach was employed, subjecting peer-reviewed studies from 2019-2024 to selection, accessed primarily through PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases. Inclusion criteria were diseases with adult COVID-19 patients who were treated with prone positioning while exclusion criteria focused on studies with insufficient data on outcomes or incompatibility in methodology. The scientific and practical value of the study: The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, comparative outcome metrics, and, whenever possible, meta-analysis. As results indicate, prone positioning produces better oxygenation and thwarts intubation, especially in those non-intubated cases with moderate respiratory failure. However, its efficacy is modulated by age, BMI, comorbidities, and the intervention's timing. Complications such as pressure ulcers, nerve injuries, etc., warrant stringent patient monitoring and protocol optimization. The study concludes that prone positioning presents a realistic and inexpensive option suitable for a resource-constrained setting and recommends that further studies be initiated on its long-term effect and would framework for its standardized implementation. Obtained Results: Prone positioning improved oxygenation in most patients and reduced the need for intubation. The effect was stronger in patients with moderate respiratory distress. Patient age, BMI, and comorbidities influenced the outcomes. Only minor complications were reported. Conclusions: the findings support the use of prone positioning as an effective, low-cost treatment for COVID-19-related respiratory distress, especially in settings with limited resources.

PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS IN THE WORK OF SURGICAL NURSES

2026-01-22T01:01:02Z

PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS IN THE WORK OF SURGICAL NURSES Mamporia, Ketevan Among all categories of health care professionals, nursing personnel working in surgical departments face higher levels of stress associated with the nature of their work. Stress factors include long shifts, high levels of responsibility for their patients, working under constant pressure, and the need to make decisions quickly. The chronic stress experienced by nurses may lead to emotional burnout, reduced quality of patient services and development of psychosomatic conditions. This study evaluates stress levels in nurses of surgical departments using various methods and analyzes factors contributing to stress development. The objective of the study was to determine stress levels in surgical nurses and to identify the main factors that cause stress in their workplace. Additional objectives included evaluating the impact of stress on their professional performance and development of recommendations to reduce stress levels. In order to achieve study objectives and accomplish the tasks set out in the study, comprehensive methods of analysis and evaluation were employed, including searching and analyzing scientific literature, using various psychological measures and scales to assess perceptions of stress and emotional burnout, measuring cortisol levels in the saliva, using the NSI (Nursing Stress Index) questionnaire with subsequent analysis of the results and review of psychological strategies and methods of coping with stress. As a result of this study, stress levels in surgical nurses were assessed using subjective and objective diagnostic measures, the core psychological strategies and methods of coping with stress have been identified, and the role of psychological training and psychoemotional support in improving the quality of nursing work have been identified. This research work included development of recommendations for improving working conditions of and stress reduction in nurses using effective programs and practices.

AESTHETIC MEDICINE IN MODERN NURSING: CHARACTERISTICS AND DEVELOPMENT PROSPECTS

2026-01-22T01:00:59Z

AESTHETIC MEDICINE IN MODERN NURSING: CHARACTERISTICS AND DEVELOPMENT PROSPECTS Maksumova, Anzhela In recent decades, aesthetic medicine has undergone significant progressive changes and occupies an important place in health care, particularly in nursing. Aesthetic medicine encompasses a wide range of procedures including laser therapy, injection-based treatments and aesthetic surgery. In the setting of growing interest in and demand for aesthetic procedures, nurses are playing a key role in ensuring successful fulfillment of procedures and patient satisfaction. In this study, a scientific efficacy analysis of various aesthetic medicine methods has been conducted, including injection-based treatments, laser therapy and aesthetic surgical procedures. The aim of the study consisted in a detailed comparison and performance evaluation of each of the methods, as well as determining the role of nurses in conducting the procedures. Patients receiving aesthetic procedures in clinical settings within the last year were the object of research in this study, with a total number of 345 subjects divided into three groups: injection-based treatments (121 patients), laser treatments (159 patients) and aesthetic surgical procedures (65 patients). As part of the study, we used both general clinical methods and specialized methods including collecting history, physical examination, laboratory and instrumental studies, and statistical analysis of data. We have assessed patient satisfaction with the outcomes of their procedures, and analyzed the overall results and possible side effects. The results of the study have shown each of the treatment modalities to have their inherent advantages and special characteristics that affect the effectiveness and safety of procedures. Recommendations have been developed to improve the quality of nursing work and optimize conducting aesthetic procedures, which may contribute to higher patient satisfaction and better overall treatment outcomes

NURSING CHALLENGES IN WORKING WITH RHEUMATOLOGY PATIENTS

2026-01-22T01:01:15Z

NURSING CHALLENGES IN WORKING WITH RHEUMATOLOGY PATIENTS Korpusova, Natalya Patients with rheumatology diseases and conditions that cause joint problems require inpatient and outpatient medical care, physical and psychological rehabilitation. Various specialists are involved in the treatment and care of such patients: family doctors and family nurses, rheumatologists and nurses specialized in working with rheumatology patients, rehabilitation specialists, physiotherapists, psychologists and social workers. Family members of patients also experience some pressure. A large share of the workload falls on nurses in rheumatology departments, who spend a lot of time with patients. Their duties are registering patients in the department, placing them in wards, taking tests for research, monitoring medication intake, physical activity, and nutrition etc. Therefore, many researchers pay much attention to studying the peculiarities of the work of nurses specialized in working with patients with joint diseases. As a result of the literature search, it was found that there is not a large number of qualitative and quantitative studies devoted to the specifics of the work of medical personnel, especially nurses, with patients of rheumatological profile. The aim of the study is to learn about nursing challenges in working with rheumatology patients. The methods of study: statistical study of the patient contingent of the rheumatology department (official information of the Medical Statistics Department of the Ternopil Regional Clinical Hospital for 2024); analysis of the structure and staffing of the nursing staff of a model rheumatology department (official information of the Ternopil Regional Clinical Hospital for 2024); analysis of questionnaires of rheumatology department nurses about the peculiarities of work in the rheumatology department (in collaboration with the scientific supervisor); oral conversations with rheumatology department nurses (in collaboration with the scientific supervisor). As result of the research major challenges including high patient volume, communication issues, organizational inefficiencies, and emotional burnout were identified. Implementing regular feedback and participatory management could help improve staff engagement and care quality. Key challenges identified by nurses—such as high patient volumes, communication barriers, and burnout—reflect systemic issues that affect care quality and staff morale. Addressing these concerns requires more than staffing solutions; it demands a cultural shift toward participatory management and interdisciplinary collaboration.

EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE OF NURSES AS A FACTOR IN IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF ELDERLY PEOPLE.

2026-01-22T01:00:47Z

EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE OF NURSES AS A FACTOR IN IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF ELDERLY PEOPLE. Yakubov, Berta In the context of long-term care (LTC) for older adults and patients with chronic conditions, nurses play a pivotal role not only in maintaining physical health but also in supporting the emotional, psychological, and social well-being of their patients. The high prevalence of chronic diseases, progressive loss of functionality, and social isolation among the elderly highlight the growing demand for emotionally competent care. This study explores the role of emotional intelligence (EI) in enhancing the quality of life (QoL) of older adults receiving long-term nursing care and investigates whether the development of EI among nurses contributes to improved care outcomes. The aim of this research is to assess the relationship between nurses’ emotional intelligence and the well-being indicators of patients receiving long-term care. The study addresses the problem of underutilization of EI-based approaches in gerontological nursing, despite mounting evidence of their effectiveness in reducing psychological distress and increasing patient satisfaction. The central research questions include: 1. What is the level of EI among nurses providing care for older adults or individuals with chronic diseases in long-term care settings? 2. How is nurses’ EI associated with patients’ quality of life, emotional support, and satisfaction with care? 3. What evidence-based strategies can effectively foster the development of EI in practicing nurses? A mixed-methods research design was employed. Quantitative data were collected using the Wong and Law Emotional Intelligence Scale (WLEIS)[Wong & Law, 2002] to assess the EI levels of 192 nurses. Patients’ quality of life was measured using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. Additionally, in-depth interviews were conducted with both nurses and patients to qualitatively examine the emotional dimensions of care. Statistical analysis included correlational and regression techniques to explore the relationship between nurses’ EI and patients’ QoL outcomes. The findings revealed a significant positive correlation (r = 0.62, p < 0.01) between nurses’ EI levels and patients’ reported quality of life. Qualitative data further confirmed that nurses with higher EI were more effective in stress management, conflict resolution, and empathetic communication. Based on the results, the study concludes that emotional intelligence is a critical determinant of effective long-term care and should be systematically integrated into postgraduate nursing education. This research contributes to the growing body of literature supporting the importance of affective competencies in professional nursing practice. In light of the global aging population and the increasing complexity of care for older adults, the findings have implications for workforce development, nursing education, and healthcare policy.