A computer-based education intervention to enhance surrogates' informed consent for genomics research.

Background: Many research studies conducted today in critical care have a genomics component. Patients' surrogates asked to authorize participation in genomics research for a loved one in the intensive care unit may not be prepared to make informed decisions about a patient's participation in the research.

Objectives: To examine the effectiveness of a new, computer-based education module on surrogates' understanding of the process of informed consent for genomics research.

Mechanisms through which reciprocal filial values protect wellbeing of Chinese adult-child caregivers in the US.

In this study, we explored the role of reciprocal filial values in protecting the wellbeing of Chinese adult-child caregivers in the US. Using survey data obtained from 137 Chinese adult-child caregivers living in seven US cities, we tested a latent variable model using structural equation modeling. In this model, informed by role theory, social exchange theory and stress-coping theory, reciprocal filial values affect caregiver wellbeing in the face of caregiver role strain, both directly and indirectly through protective effects of role rewards and coping.

Wellness in community living adults: the Weigh to Life program.

Objective: To examine physiological and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) outcomes in community living adults attending a 12-week combined lifestyle wellness program.

Methods: A sample of overweight and obese adults (n=319) and a subgroup who also had diabetes (n=46 of 319) were studied. The program focuses on dietary, physical activity, and behavioral strategies to promote cardiovascular health.

Systematic review of educational interventions for improving advance directive completion.

Purpose: To systematically analyze evidence about the outcome and percent of newly completed ADs, focusing on the effectiveness of (a) types of educational interventions versus controls and (b) one educational intervention over another.

Design: Systematic review of literature based on Cochrane review criteria.

Methods: Twelve randomized and four nonrandomized studies were selected from the nursing, medical, and social work literature that met the following criteria: described educational interventions, provided information to calculate the percent of newly completed ADs as an outcome, and published between 1991 and 2009.

Construct validity of four exercise stage of change measures in adults.

Measuring readiness to exercise, or exercise stage of change (ESOC), is an important first step when counseling adults about exercise. However, minimal construct validity testing of ESOC measures has been reported. With a sample of 95 adults, we estimated the construct validity of four ESOC measures with commonly used response formats (true/false, ladder, 5 choice, interview).

Surrogate consent for genomics research in intensive care.

Surrogate decision makers may be poorly prepared to give informed consent for genomics research for their loved ones in intensive care. A review of the challenges and strategies associated with obtaining surrogates' consent for genomics research in intensive care patients revealed that few well-controlled studies have been done on this topic. Yet, a major theme in the literature is the role of health care professionals in guiding surrogates through the informed consent process rather than simply witnessing a signature.

Evaluation of online education about diabetes management in the school setting.

There are a variety of initiatives to provide education to improve the quality of care for children with diabetes in the school setting. This study piloted and evaluated an online continuing education program for school nurses about diabetes management for children in schools using current practice principles. The evaluation determined if objectives of the program were met, if participants believed the education provided would enhance their ability to manage children with diabetes, and participants' opinions about the online delivery method.

Design and evaluation of SchoolhealthLink, a Web-based health information resource.

SchoolhealthLink, a Web-based information service for Missouri school nurses, is a promising resource to reach school nurses isolated from traditional professional networks. It also may serve as an important adjunct to stay abreast of the latest health information. Using a strategy to identify the health information needs of school nurses and to test the site early in its development, this pilot study found school nurses reported SchoolhealthLink was an easy-to-use method to find high-quality, up-to-date information relevant to school nursing practice, was better than existing methods to access information, and could change the way they practiced.