Comprehensive design considerations for a new hospital gown: a patient-oriented qualitative study.

Background: The standard hospital gown has remained relatively unchanged despite reports that it is uncomfortable, embarrassing to wear and compromises patients' dignity. The objective of this qualitative study was to explore the experiences and perspectives of stakeholders involved in the gown life cycle.

Methods: We conducted a constructivist, qualitative interview study with a patient-oriented lens.

Dual, Yet Dueling Illnesses: Multiple Chronic Illness Experience at Midlife.

The prevalence of multiple chronic illnesses is increasing dramatically, especially among those in middle adulthood, yet much prior research has focused on the experience of multiple morbidity among older adults. We examined the online illness narratives (blogs) of 10 men and women aged 36 to 59 to better understand the experience of living with multiple chronic illnesses at midlife. Multiple morbidity presents distinct challenges to those at midlife: (a) diagnosis and management of multiple illnesses, (b) need for information, (c) identity dilemmas and threats to self-image, and (d) stigma and social rejection.

Development and evaluation of a genetics literacy assessment instrument for undergraduates.

There is continued emphasis on increasing and improving genetics education for grades K-12, for medical professionals, and for the general public. Another critical audience is undergraduate students in introductory biology and genetics courses. To improve the learning of genetics, there is a need to first assess students' understanding of genetics concepts and their level of genetics literacy (i.