Competency-based education in transitioning nurse practitioner students from education into practice.

Competency-based education (CBE) provides a framework for nursing programs including those educating nurse practitioners (NPs). The basic assumption of CBE is that the student will demonstrate acquisition of the identified essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes expected for the designated educational process before leaving the learning environment. The work done to date in developing competencies and progression indicators provides the critical basis to move toward a common language and clear expectations for the continuum of linear progression of proficiency.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause.

Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), formerly referred to as vulvovaginal atrophy or atrophic vaginitis, is a common chronic condition that requires a collaborative treatment plan between a health care provider and a woman to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Many women are not aware that symptoms can be controlled with treatment. Current treatment options approved for GSM include vaginal moisturizers, lubricants, and hormones.

Common Sexually Transmitted Infections in Women.

The spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remains a significant public health issue in the United States. Social, economic, and behavioral implications affecting the spread of STIs have been identified. The most important social factor in the United States is the stigma associated with discussing sex and STI screening.

Prevention and Treatment of Injuries and Infections Related to Pubic Hair Removal.

The 21st century has witnessed an increasingly prevalent trend of women removing their pubic hair. Body hair removal norms have changed significantly over the past several decades. Regardless of the motivation or technique behind pubic hair grooming, this trend is presenting a unique challenge for health care professionals with regard to health education about safe removal and treatment for associated injuries and infections.

Skin Care for Women.

Women are inundated with advertisements for products promising younger-looking, healthier skin. The truth is that many of these products can be expensive and produce results that do not live up to the claims. Health care providers can educate women about proven best practices and how to evaluate products' claims of benefits.

Improving communication in distance-accessible advanced practice nursing courses via instructor presence.

By using principles of instructor presence, faculty of distance-accessible nursing courses can foster a climate of learning that supports student achievement and provides role modeling for communication. Faculty used principles of instructional design, facilitation of student discourse, and clear direct instruction to improve the learning experiences of approximately 300 graduate nursing students taking part in a health assessment course. Specific suggestions for faculty that take place before and throughout the semester are offered.

Effect of an educational intervention on cardiovascular disease risk perception among women with preeclampsia.

Objective: To promote knowledge and awareness about cardiovascular disease (CVD) among women with recent preeclampsia so that this population may develop more accurate perceptions of their personal CVD risk.

Design: An exploratory single group, pretest/posttest educational intervention study.

Setting: Telephone-based interviews.