Dr Marianna Mantzorou currently works as an Assοciate Professor at the Department of Nursing, University of West Attica. She teaches Gerontological and Occupational Health Nursing. She is also member of the Coordinating committee of the Master course in Community and Public Health Nursing, organized by the Nursing Department of the University of West Attica. Her research interests include Stigma in Dementia, Burnout of professional and family caregivers of people with dementia; Kinds of Knowledge in Nursing; Age and Dementia friendly communities; Active and Healthy Aging; Non pharmacological interventions; Phenomenology; Clinical education and Health promotion. She is a member of the Greek Geriatric and Gerontological Society and the European Geriatric Medicine Society (EuGMS), member of the International Advisory Board of the scientific journal Nurse Education Today and Reviewer in the scientific journals Nurse Education in Practice and Nurse Education Today. Moreover, she is a member of the Community Nursing Division of the Hellenic Nurses Association and member of the Research Lab (Nursing Rehabilitation of the chronically ill Lab) of the Nursing Department, Faculty of Health and Caring Sciences (UniWA).
Assessing knowledge, attitudes and practices towards evidence-based practice (EBP) is a challenge... more Assessing knowledge, attitudes and practices towards evidence-based practice (EBP) is a challenge for healthcare professionals. However, the existing literature focuses on nurses working in acute hospital settings, with nurses working in community and primary healthcare settings receiving comparatively less attention. The purpose of the study was to explore factors that related to attitudes, knowledge and practice of community nurses toward EBP. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of community nurses in Greece. Community nurses around the country were invited to complete an online questionnaire during the period of February to April 2022. To measure nurses’ attitudes, practices and knowledge/skills regarding EBP, the Evidence-Based Practice Questionnaire was used. A total of 164 nurses took part in the study. The mean age of nurses was 41.6 years, with 42.7% having either an MSc or a PhD degree. The overall internal consistency for the EBPQ questionnaire was 0.91. The sample demonstrated a high level of knowledge/skills (mean score of 5.5 on a 7-point scale) and positive attitudes (mean score of 5.5 on a 7-point scale) towards EBP, while the level of EBP practice was moderate (mean score of 4.5 on a 7-point scale). A higher educational level showed a positive relationship with the “practice of EBP” subscale (p = 0.005) and the “knowledge/skills about EBP” subscale (p = 0.003). Additionally, an increase in the knowledge/skills score was associated with a more positive attitude towards EBP (p < 0.001) and better practice of EBP (p = 0.003). The identification of educational level as the main factor related to the knowledge/skills and implementation of EBPs in community nurses emphasizes the necessity for educational initiatives in EBP at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Informed nurses who are familiar with current guidelines and evidence can effectively train patients about chronic disease management and prevention. Additionally, creating incentives to motivate participation in lifelong learning programs can indeed play a crucial role in enhancing the proficiency of community nurses in evidence-based practice.
IntroductionThe increase of job satisfaction in mental health nurses, working in community mental... more IntroductionThe increase of job satisfaction in mental health nurses, working in community mental facilities, helps them to become more efficient and understand the needs of individuals suffering from mental health problems.ObjectivesTo investigate sociodemographic and job characteristics, as well as the level of professional satisfaction of nurses working in psychosocial rehabilitation facilities of the psychiatric hospital of Athens, named Dafni.Methods220 nurses, working in the field of psychosocial rehabilitation completed (a) a sociodemographic questionnaire, (b) Spectοr’s Job Satisfaction Survey (JSS).ResultsNursing staff consists of mental health nurses (44.1%) and nursing assistants (55.9%) in the present study. 90% of the participants were female; while the 65% were married, the 19.5% had a university-level education and the 25% had administrative responsibilities. The 44.1% of our sample worked in hostels, 41.8% in nursing homes and 6.8% in Community Mental Health Centers....
Aim: The investigation of health professionals' burnout and depression, working in refugees' rece... more Aim: The investigation of health professionals' burnout and depression, working in refugees' reception centers and their possible intercorrelation. Materials and methods: A descriptive correlation study was carried out in health professionals, who worked in refugees' reception centers and accommodation programs throughout Greece. Data were collected using an anonymous questionnaire through online Google Forms. The questionnaire contained demographics, the Copenhagen Burnout Questionnaire (CBI-Gr) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). The SPSS 22.00 was used for the statistical analysis and the significance level was set at 0.05. Results: The sample consisted of 125 healthcare professionals working in refugees' reception centers and accommodation programs, the majority of them were women (62.4%), aged between 30-39 years (39.2%) nurses (24.8%) and with a master's degree (28%). A strong linear positive correlation was found between depression and burnout (r=0.542, p=0.000). A statistically significant correlation was also recorded between burnout and female gender (p=0.001), the age group of 30-39 (p=0.042) and nursing profession (p=0.003). Conclusions: A strong linear relationship between burnout and depression was revealed, a finding indicating that it is imperative to implement interventions to strengthen the resilience of health professionals working in refugees' reception centers.
This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY
Abstract: (1) Background: individuals may benefit from being involved in physical and athletic ac... more Abstract: (1) Background: individuals may benefit from being involved in physical and athletic activities in order to improve their body appearance and promote their physical and mental health. This study aimed to investigate body image, body mass index (BMI) characteristics, social physique anxiety, self-esteem and possible correlations between the above factors. (2) Methods: 245 adults engaged in training programs in gyms, as well as in track and field, football and basketball athletic activities completed (a) a sociodemographic questionnaire which recorded their BMI values and utilized the (b) Body-Esteem Scale for Adolescents and Adults, (c) the Social Physique Anxiety Scale and (d) the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. (3) Results: Females and individuals with higher BMI reported statistically significant lower body-esteem and greater social physique anxiety levels compared to males and individuals with lower BMI, respectively (p < 0.05). A total of 25.3% of our participants were labeled as “overweight”, while 20.4% had been overweight in the past. Significant differences were reported between body-esteem and social physique anxiety levels (p < 0.001); age (p = 0.001); BMI value (p < 0.001) and never having a problem with body weight (p = 0.008). Additionally, individuals with lower body-esteem and greater social physique anxiety levels presented lower global self-esteem (p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: individuals’ engagement in physical activity promotes physical as well as mental well-being, contributing to an improved quality of life, which may be the most important issue for health care professionals.
This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY
Background: Most chronic patients receive some level of care and support by their families. The b... more Background: Most chronic patients receive some level of care and support by their families. The burden of family caregivers comprises any factor that disrupts their lives and affects their health, interpersonal relationships, work, finances, social life and leisure. The burden is related to the experience as a result of the patient's daily care, possibly dependent on the feeling of family support. Aim: To investigate the relationship between burden and family support in family caregivers of older adults with chronic diseases. Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out involving 150 family caregivers of patients with chronic diseases. A questionnaire of socio-demographic and other data was used as well as the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI) and the Family Support Scale (FSS). Results: The sample consisted of 150 people, with a mean age of 57, with the majority being women (70.7%). Most caregivers were married (48.7%) with 21.3% having a child-father relationship and with 22% having a childmother relationship. Regarding the score on the ZBI Charge Rating Scale, the caregivers of the sample recorded high caregiver burden rates from the lowest (not at all to mild 25.3%) to the moderate and severe rating (mild to moderate 38.7% and moderate to severe 33.7%). Women appeared to experience higher levels of burden than men, while caregivers with reported health problems suffered more burden. On the Family Support Scale (FSS), women reported an increased sense of family support compared to male caregivers (75 ± 19 vs. 29 ± 7, p = 0.001). Finally, scores of the ZBI scale were found to be negatively related to the scores of FSS scale (r=-0.288, p=0.008). These findings supported the main research hypothesis since carers who received higher levels of family support, were experiencing lower levels of burden. Conclusions: The positive correlation found between the burden of caregivers of patients with chronic diseases and the family support they receive indicates that health professionals ought to provide all necessary educative and counselling measures of relief for caregivers indicating the importance of asking and receiving support by other family members so as to be able to carry out the difficult and burdensome task of care.
This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY
Objective and aim. Cancer and its treatment have substantial physical and psychological consequen... more Objective and aim. Cancer and its treatment have substantial physical and psychological consequences that severely affect the patients’ quality of life (QoL) and emotional status. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between distress, anxiety, depression, and QoL of ambulatory cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Methods. A descriptive, cross-sectional study of 150 cancer patients who were receiving chemotherapy in the outpatient unit of a central anticancer hospital in Athens. The data were collected through convenience sampling between November 2017 and January 2018, using a demographic and clinical characteristics questionnaire, the Distress Thermometer (DT) and Problem List (PL), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the European Organization for Research and Treatment for Cancer QoL assessment Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30). Results. Variability characterized the sample’s demographic and clinical characteristics. The majority of patients were women...
IntroductionDemetia is part of the life of millions of people worldwide but the poor understandin... more IntroductionDemetia is part of the life of millions of people worldwide but the poor understanding contributes towards the stigma that surrounds the disease with negative consequences for the integration and quality of care of the patients as well as the wellbeing of professional and family caregivers who undertake their care. Aims The present study aims at investigating whether professional and family caregivers of people with dementia stigmatize their patients and whether they experience burnout so as to find correlations between them and compare the two groups. Moreover, it aims at describing the kinds of knowledge used by qualified nurses and unqualified professional care givers caring for demented elderly people in nursing homes from their own perspective.MethodologyA cross-sectional study of burnout experienced by nurses and family care givers as well as the stigma they attach to their patients, was carried out in a convenience sample of 171 geriatric nurses in 16 elderly care...
ABSTRACT Aim: To investigate mental health of head nurses in internal medicine and surgery depart... more ABSTRACT Aim: To investigate mental health of head nurses in internal medicine and surgery departments of Athens and province. Material and methods: 79 head nurses and nurse supervisors in internal medicine and surgery departments of secondary health care hospitals in Athens and one provincial town filled in the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ)-28. Results: Mean age of the sample was 40.19±5.30 years old.10% of head nurses and nurse supervisors exhibited considerable mental health burden, while no differences were observed between men and women. Conclusions: Head nurses and nurse supervisors generally exhibit lower mental burden than other nurses. However, in a considerable percentage of them, mental heal problems are still significant, without differentiation between men and women. Key words: Mental health, nurses, head nurses .
Background: Vaccination of children along with public health protection measures can limit transm... more Background: Vaccination of children along with public health protection measures can limit transmission of SARS-COV-2. Objective: The aim of the study was to identify the attitudes and perceptions of Greek parents that affect their intention to vaccinate their children against COVID-19. Methods: The sample of the study consisted of 230 parents of underaged children who were administered a demographic characteristics questionnaire and the "Parental Acceptability of Free COVID-19 Vaccination for Children Under the Age of 18 Years" scale. Results: The majority of participants were females (70.4%), aged 41-50 years old (43.3%), married (86.5%), with university degree (63.5%). The prevalence of parental acceptability of free covid-19 vaccination was moderate (36.6 %) and a small percentage (23.9%) had already vaccinated their children. According to the univariate logistic regression analysis, female gender (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 3.05, 95% CI 1.43-6.47, p=0.004), highest educational level ([AOR] 2.66, 95% CI 1.21-5.84, p=0.015), history of seasonal influenza vaccination ([AOR] 2.08, 95% CI 1.09-3.98, p=0.026) and selfreported vaccination ([AOR] 17.38, 95% CI 2.29-131.86, p=0.006) were significantly associated with parental acceptability of vaccination. Increasing positive attitude perceptions was associated with an increased likelihood of parental acceptability of COVID-19 vaccination. Conclusion: The moderate parental acceptability of underaged children vaccination against COVID 19 and its association with perceptions and attitudes of parents found in the present study, indicate that it is important to raise awareness of parents about the vaccination of their children and public health policies need to focus on strengthening positive attitudes, increasing social consensus and facilitating the desired behavior.
Background: Preoperative patient education is an effective intervention of the healthcare team, w... more Background: Preoperative patient education is an effective intervention of the healthcare team, which has been used to promote patient recovery and well-being. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a nursing preoperative educational intervention on the anxiety and pain of patients undergoing spinal decompression surgery. Methods: In this pilot randomized controlled study, patients (n=40) undergoing spinal decompression surgery, were randomized into an intervention group (underwent educational intervention, n=23) and a control group (n=17). The preoperative educational intervention included an oral briefing and a leaflet with perioperative care information as well as post-discharge care. Participants completed the Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS), the subscale "State" of the State and Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S), the Numerical Rating Scale, and a questionnaire about demographic characteristics, the day before surgery (T0) and the first post-operation day (T1). Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 22.0. The statistical significance level was set at p<0.05. Results. A significant reduction was found in pain intensity before and after surgery in both groups. Pain levels, after surgery, were significantly lower in the intervention group compared to pain levels in the control group (t=2.174, p=0.036). In both groups, high state anxiety scores on the STAI-S scale before surgery were confirmed by high anxiety scores in APAIS surgery. Additionally, in both groups after surgery, high state anxiety scores on the STAI-S scale were associated with high pain levels. There were no statistically significant group differences with regard to scores of STAI-S before and after surgery. Conclusions. Nursing preoperative educational intervention in patients undergoing spinal decompression surgery had a positive impact on reducing the intensity of pain after surgery. These results indicated that nurses and health care providers should integrate patient education and health literacy into their daily clinical practice.
Schoolchildren with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) need supervision in the management of their d... more Schoolchildren with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) need supervision in the management of their disorder by the school nurse, securing proper care and safety in the school environment. The aim of this study was to investigate the parents’ perceptions regarding the care and safety of their children with T1DM at school. In this cross-sectional study, 356 parents of children with T1DM attending primary and secondary school (convenience sample) completed the “Parents’ Opinions about School-based Care for Children with Diabetes” and the “Safety of children with T1DM at school”. The majority (58.8%) noted that their children received some care from a school nurse, less than half (44.6%) declared feeling very safe concerning diabetes care, and 42.5% reported high levels of diabetes management satisfaction. Younger age of the child (p < 0.001), school nurses’ advanced diabetic care skills (p < 0.001), existence of school nurse’s office (p < 0.05) and higher educational level of the father were positively correlated with higher parental feelings of safety and satisfaction. The presence of a school nurse was associated with higher academic performance (p < 0.001), significantly fewer absences due to the disorder (p < 0.001) and better diabetes management (p < 0.043). The daily presence of a school nurse in school decreases absenteeism, greatly improves school performance and enhances diabetic management of schoolchildren with T1DM.
Aim:To identify factors contributing to Greek nursing students’ stress and the coping strategies ... more Aim:To identify factors contributing to Greek nursing students’ stress and the coping strategies used. Background:Stress experienced by nursing students in the context of ongoing economic recession is as yet unexplored. Design:A cross-sectional study. Methodology:Undergraduate nursing students (n=424) completed the Student Nurse Stress Index (short version) and the Brief COPE questionnaires. Results:Most of the participants stated that their current financial status (81.7%) contributed towards their experience of stress, and they had higher scores on the interface worries subscale (p&lt;0.001). Female gender (p&lt;0.001) seniority (p=0.005) and stress of transportation from home to university (p=0.019) significantly increased the SNSI total score as well as most of the stress subscales scores. As far as coping subscales were concerned, higher means were shown in active/positive coping (mean 2.95), seeking support (mean 2.84), expression of negative feelings (mean 2.71) and avoidance (2.47). However, the use of higher maladaptive coping strategies was noted in cases presenting higher SNSI Total score, interface worries and personal problems. Conclusion: The introduction of stress management training and conflict management skills ought to be considered. Fund raising initiatives should be considered to provide financial assistance to those in need.
Background: Expatriation and relocation into a new cultural context constitute a psychological jo... more Background: Expatriation and relocation into a new cultural context constitute a psychological journey marked by exposure to potentially traumatic events, the abandonment of the homeland and the effort of seeking safety and a new beginning at all levels. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the Professional Quality of Life in Greek health professionals working with refugees and migrants. Methods: The Professional Quality of Life Scale (ProQOL V) and a demographic and work-related characteristics questionnaire were distributed to 90 health professionals working with migrants and refugees. Results: 25.6% of participants reported high CF risk while 75.7% expressed high to moderate potential for CS. Awareness of the factors associated with CF may help health professionals to prevent or offset the development of this condition. Conclusion: A compassionate organizational culture, clinical supervision and on-going education may protect health professionals working with migra...
To investigate possible correlations between stigma and burnout of nurses and non-graduate profes... more To investigate possible correlations between stigma and burnout of nurses and non-graduate professional caregivers of elderly with dementia in nursing homes. Research on dementia stigma in healthcare professionals as well as its relationship with their wellbeing is seriously lacking. This cross-sectional study involved a convenience sample of 171 nurses and other professional caregivers in 16 Greek elderly care units who responded to Maslah Burnout Inventory (ΜΒΙ) as well as the Family Stigma in Alzheimer's Disease Scale (FS-ADS). In order to find adjusted associations between independent variables and the stigma and burnout of professional caregivers, multiple linear regression analysis was used. Cognitive, emotional and behavioral attributions of the three dimensions of stigma were found to be independent predictive factors of burnout's dimensions which indicates that stigma nurses deposit on patients, contributes towards their burnout. Educational preparation of geriatric nurses should provide them with the option of seeing dementia as a normal stage of life since reducing stigma can contribute towards preventing and managing professional burnout. In order to reduce burnout, nurse managers should design lifelong learning programs on the basis of changing the stigmatizing negative cognitive and emotional attitudes of professionals towards dementia.
Background and PurposesThe present study was undertaken in order to evaluate the validity and rel... more Background and PurposesThe present study was undertaken in order to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Family Stigma in Alzheimer’s Disease Scale (FS-ADS) in the Greek population.MethodsThe Greek version of the FS-ADS as well as the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) was administered to 171 healthcare professional caring for people with dementia. Exploratory factor analysis was performed to examine the factor structure of the FS-ADS. Test–retest reliability was measured by administration of the FS-ADS in 20 individuals.ResultsPrincipal component analysis revealed 5, 8 and 3 factors (subscales) for each dimension of the original questionnaire, respectively, similar to other previously reported results in the literature. The overall Cronbach’s α was .899, yielding a high internal consistency. Test–retest reliability was very high (r = 0.903, p < .001). Statistically significant relationships were found between most of the FS-ADS dimensions and Maslach subscales.ConclusionThe...
Background: Research ethics involve requirements on daily work, the protection of dignity of subj... more Background: Research ethics involve requirements on daily work, the protection of dignity of subjects and the publication of the information in the research. However, when nurses participate in research they have to cope with three value systems; society; nursing and science which may be in conflict with the values of subjects, communities, and societies and create tensions and dilemmas in nursing. Method and material: Using the Medline and the Nursing Cinahl data base, the most important ethical issues which appear in bibliography, will be addressed. After a short description of the nature of nursing, and the advocacy role of nurses, the writer will attempt to highlight the possible conflicts that nurses have to deal with, when undertaking or participating in research. Results: The major ethical issues in conducting research are: a) Informed consent, b) Beneficence-Do not harm c) Respect for anonymity and confidentiality d) Respect for privacy. However, both the nature of nursing which focuses on caring, preventing harm and protecting dignity and the advocates role of nurses which calls for defending the rights of subjects, are sometimes incongruent with the ethics in research. Conclusions: Ethical issues, conflicting values, and ambiguity in decision making, are recurrently emerging from literature review on nursing research. Because of lack of clarity in ethical standards, nurses must develop an awareness of these issues and an effective framework to deal with problems involving human rights.
Assessing knowledge, attitudes and practices towards evidence-based practice (EBP) is a challenge... more Assessing knowledge, attitudes and practices towards evidence-based practice (EBP) is a challenge for healthcare professionals. However, the existing literature focuses on nurses working in acute hospital settings, with nurses working in community and primary healthcare settings receiving comparatively less attention. The purpose of the study was to explore factors that related to attitudes, knowledge and practice of community nurses toward EBP. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of community nurses in Greece. Community nurses around the country were invited to complete an online questionnaire during the period of February to April 2022. To measure nurses’ attitudes, practices and knowledge/skills regarding EBP, the Evidence-Based Practice Questionnaire was used. A total of 164 nurses took part in the study. The mean age of nurses was 41.6 years, with 42.7% having either an MSc or a PhD degree. The overall internal consistency for the EBPQ questionnaire was 0.91. The sample demonstrated a high level of knowledge/skills (mean score of 5.5 on a 7-point scale) and positive attitudes (mean score of 5.5 on a 7-point scale) towards EBP, while the level of EBP practice was moderate (mean score of 4.5 on a 7-point scale). A higher educational level showed a positive relationship with the “practice of EBP” subscale (p = 0.005) and the “knowledge/skills about EBP” subscale (p = 0.003). Additionally, an increase in the knowledge/skills score was associated with a more positive attitude towards EBP (p < 0.001) and better practice of EBP (p = 0.003). The identification of educational level as the main factor related to the knowledge/skills and implementation of EBPs in community nurses emphasizes the necessity for educational initiatives in EBP at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Informed nurses who are familiar with current guidelines and evidence can effectively train patients about chronic disease management and prevention. Additionally, creating incentives to motivate participation in lifelong learning programs can indeed play a crucial role in enhancing the proficiency of community nurses in evidence-based practice.
IntroductionThe increase of job satisfaction in mental health nurses, working in community mental... more IntroductionThe increase of job satisfaction in mental health nurses, working in community mental facilities, helps them to become more efficient and understand the needs of individuals suffering from mental health problems.ObjectivesTo investigate sociodemographic and job characteristics, as well as the level of professional satisfaction of nurses working in psychosocial rehabilitation facilities of the psychiatric hospital of Athens, named Dafni.Methods220 nurses, working in the field of psychosocial rehabilitation completed (a) a sociodemographic questionnaire, (b) Spectοr’s Job Satisfaction Survey (JSS).ResultsNursing staff consists of mental health nurses (44.1%) and nursing assistants (55.9%) in the present study. 90% of the participants were female; while the 65% were married, the 19.5% had a university-level education and the 25% had administrative responsibilities. The 44.1% of our sample worked in hostels, 41.8% in nursing homes and 6.8% in Community Mental Health Centers....
Aim: The investigation of health professionals' burnout and depression, working in refugees' rece... more Aim: The investigation of health professionals' burnout and depression, working in refugees' reception centers and their possible intercorrelation. Materials and methods: A descriptive correlation study was carried out in health professionals, who worked in refugees' reception centers and accommodation programs throughout Greece. Data were collected using an anonymous questionnaire through online Google Forms. The questionnaire contained demographics, the Copenhagen Burnout Questionnaire (CBI-Gr) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). The SPSS 22.00 was used for the statistical analysis and the significance level was set at 0.05. Results: The sample consisted of 125 healthcare professionals working in refugees' reception centers and accommodation programs, the majority of them were women (62.4%), aged between 30-39 years (39.2%) nurses (24.8%) and with a master's degree (28%). A strong linear positive correlation was found between depression and burnout (r=0.542, p=0.000). A statistically significant correlation was also recorded between burnout and female gender (p=0.001), the age group of 30-39 (p=0.042) and nursing profession (p=0.003). Conclusions: A strong linear relationship between burnout and depression was revealed, a finding indicating that it is imperative to implement interventions to strengthen the resilience of health professionals working in refugees' reception centers.
This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY
Abstract: (1) Background: individuals may benefit from being involved in physical and athletic ac... more Abstract: (1) Background: individuals may benefit from being involved in physical and athletic activities in order to improve their body appearance and promote their physical and mental health. This study aimed to investigate body image, body mass index (BMI) characteristics, social physique anxiety, self-esteem and possible correlations between the above factors. (2) Methods: 245 adults engaged in training programs in gyms, as well as in track and field, football and basketball athletic activities completed (a) a sociodemographic questionnaire which recorded their BMI values and utilized the (b) Body-Esteem Scale for Adolescents and Adults, (c) the Social Physique Anxiety Scale and (d) the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. (3) Results: Females and individuals with higher BMI reported statistically significant lower body-esteem and greater social physique anxiety levels compared to males and individuals with lower BMI, respectively (p < 0.05). A total of 25.3% of our participants were labeled as “overweight”, while 20.4% had been overweight in the past. Significant differences were reported between body-esteem and social physique anxiety levels (p < 0.001); age (p = 0.001); BMI value (p < 0.001) and never having a problem with body weight (p = 0.008). Additionally, individuals with lower body-esteem and greater social physique anxiety levels presented lower global self-esteem (p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: individuals’ engagement in physical activity promotes physical as well as mental well-being, contributing to an improved quality of life, which may be the most important issue for health care professionals.
This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY
Background: Most chronic patients receive some level of care and support by their families. The b... more Background: Most chronic patients receive some level of care and support by their families. The burden of family caregivers comprises any factor that disrupts their lives and affects their health, interpersonal relationships, work, finances, social life and leisure. The burden is related to the experience as a result of the patient's daily care, possibly dependent on the feeling of family support. Aim: To investigate the relationship between burden and family support in family caregivers of older adults with chronic diseases. Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out involving 150 family caregivers of patients with chronic diseases. A questionnaire of socio-demographic and other data was used as well as the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI) and the Family Support Scale (FSS). Results: The sample consisted of 150 people, with a mean age of 57, with the majority being women (70.7%). Most caregivers were married (48.7%) with 21.3% having a child-father relationship and with 22% having a childmother relationship. Regarding the score on the ZBI Charge Rating Scale, the caregivers of the sample recorded high caregiver burden rates from the lowest (not at all to mild 25.3%) to the moderate and severe rating (mild to moderate 38.7% and moderate to severe 33.7%). Women appeared to experience higher levels of burden than men, while caregivers with reported health problems suffered more burden. On the Family Support Scale (FSS), women reported an increased sense of family support compared to male caregivers (75 ± 19 vs. 29 ± 7, p = 0.001). Finally, scores of the ZBI scale were found to be negatively related to the scores of FSS scale (r=-0.288, p=0.008). These findings supported the main research hypothesis since carers who received higher levels of family support, were experiencing lower levels of burden. Conclusions: The positive correlation found between the burden of caregivers of patients with chronic diseases and the family support they receive indicates that health professionals ought to provide all necessary educative and counselling measures of relief for caregivers indicating the importance of asking and receiving support by other family members so as to be able to carry out the difficult and burdensome task of care.
This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY
Objective and aim. Cancer and its treatment have substantial physical and psychological consequen... more Objective and aim. Cancer and its treatment have substantial physical and psychological consequences that severely affect the patients’ quality of life (QoL) and emotional status. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between distress, anxiety, depression, and QoL of ambulatory cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Methods. A descriptive, cross-sectional study of 150 cancer patients who were receiving chemotherapy in the outpatient unit of a central anticancer hospital in Athens. The data were collected through convenience sampling between November 2017 and January 2018, using a demographic and clinical characteristics questionnaire, the Distress Thermometer (DT) and Problem List (PL), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the European Organization for Research and Treatment for Cancer QoL assessment Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30). Results. Variability characterized the sample’s demographic and clinical characteristics. The majority of patients were women...
IntroductionDemetia is part of the life of millions of people worldwide but the poor understandin... more IntroductionDemetia is part of the life of millions of people worldwide but the poor understanding contributes towards the stigma that surrounds the disease with negative consequences for the integration and quality of care of the patients as well as the wellbeing of professional and family caregivers who undertake their care. Aims The present study aims at investigating whether professional and family caregivers of people with dementia stigmatize their patients and whether they experience burnout so as to find correlations between them and compare the two groups. Moreover, it aims at describing the kinds of knowledge used by qualified nurses and unqualified professional care givers caring for demented elderly people in nursing homes from their own perspective.MethodologyA cross-sectional study of burnout experienced by nurses and family care givers as well as the stigma they attach to their patients, was carried out in a convenience sample of 171 geriatric nurses in 16 elderly care...
ABSTRACT Aim: To investigate mental health of head nurses in internal medicine and surgery depart... more ABSTRACT Aim: To investigate mental health of head nurses in internal medicine and surgery departments of Athens and province. Material and methods: 79 head nurses and nurse supervisors in internal medicine and surgery departments of secondary health care hospitals in Athens and one provincial town filled in the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ)-28. Results: Mean age of the sample was 40.19±5.30 years old.10% of head nurses and nurse supervisors exhibited considerable mental health burden, while no differences were observed between men and women. Conclusions: Head nurses and nurse supervisors generally exhibit lower mental burden than other nurses. However, in a considerable percentage of them, mental heal problems are still significant, without differentiation between men and women. Key words: Mental health, nurses, head nurses .
Background: Vaccination of children along with public health protection measures can limit transm... more Background: Vaccination of children along with public health protection measures can limit transmission of SARS-COV-2. Objective: The aim of the study was to identify the attitudes and perceptions of Greek parents that affect their intention to vaccinate their children against COVID-19. Methods: The sample of the study consisted of 230 parents of underaged children who were administered a demographic characteristics questionnaire and the "Parental Acceptability of Free COVID-19 Vaccination for Children Under the Age of 18 Years" scale. Results: The majority of participants were females (70.4%), aged 41-50 years old (43.3%), married (86.5%), with university degree (63.5%). The prevalence of parental acceptability of free covid-19 vaccination was moderate (36.6 %) and a small percentage (23.9%) had already vaccinated their children. According to the univariate logistic regression analysis, female gender (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 3.05, 95% CI 1.43-6.47, p=0.004), highest educational level ([AOR] 2.66, 95% CI 1.21-5.84, p=0.015), history of seasonal influenza vaccination ([AOR] 2.08, 95% CI 1.09-3.98, p=0.026) and selfreported vaccination ([AOR] 17.38, 95% CI 2.29-131.86, p=0.006) were significantly associated with parental acceptability of vaccination. Increasing positive attitude perceptions was associated with an increased likelihood of parental acceptability of COVID-19 vaccination. Conclusion: The moderate parental acceptability of underaged children vaccination against COVID 19 and its association with perceptions and attitudes of parents found in the present study, indicate that it is important to raise awareness of parents about the vaccination of their children and public health policies need to focus on strengthening positive attitudes, increasing social consensus and facilitating the desired behavior.
Background: Preoperative patient education is an effective intervention of the healthcare team, w... more Background: Preoperative patient education is an effective intervention of the healthcare team, which has been used to promote patient recovery and well-being. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a nursing preoperative educational intervention on the anxiety and pain of patients undergoing spinal decompression surgery. Methods: In this pilot randomized controlled study, patients (n=40) undergoing spinal decompression surgery, were randomized into an intervention group (underwent educational intervention, n=23) and a control group (n=17). The preoperative educational intervention included an oral briefing and a leaflet with perioperative care information as well as post-discharge care. Participants completed the Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS), the subscale "State" of the State and Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S), the Numerical Rating Scale, and a questionnaire about demographic characteristics, the day before surgery (T0) and the first post-operation day (T1). Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 22.0. The statistical significance level was set at p<0.05. Results. A significant reduction was found in pain intensity before and after surgery in both groups. Pain levels, after surgery, were significantly lower in the intervention group compared to pain levels in the control group (t=2.174, p=0.036). In both groups, high state anxiety scores on the STAI-S scale before surgery were confirmed by high anxiety scores in APAIS surgery. Additionally, in both groups after surgery, high state anxiety scores on the STAI-S scale were associated with high pain levels. There were no statistically significant group differences with regard to scores of STAI-S before and after surgery. Conclusions. Nursing preoperative educational intervention in patients undergoing spinal decompression surgery had a positive impact on reducing the intensity of pain after surgery. These results indicated that nurses and health care providers should integrate patient education and health literacy into their daily clinical practice.
Schoolchildren with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) need supervision in the management of their d... more Schoolchildren with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) need supervision in the management of their disorder by the school nurse, securing proper care and safety in the school environment. The aim of this study was to investigate the parents’ perceptions regarding the care and safety of their children with T1DM at school. In this cross-sectional study, 356 parents of children with T1DM attending primary and secondary school (convenience sample) completed the “Parents’ Opinions about School-based Care for Children with Diabetes” and the “Safety of children with T1DM at school”. The majority (58.8%) noted that their children received some care from a school nurse, less than half (44.6%) declared feeling very safe concerning diabetes care, and 42.5% reported high levels of diabetes management satisfaction. Younger age of the child (p < 0.001), school nurses’ advanced diabetic care skills (p < 0.001), existence of school nurse’s office (p < 0.05) and higher educational level of the father were positively correlated with higher parental feelings of safety and satisfaction. The presence of a school nurse was associated with higher academic performance (p < 0.001), significantly fewer absences due to the disorder (p < 0.001) and better diabetes management (p < 0.043). The daily presence of a school nurse in school decreases absenteeism, greatly improves school performance and enhances diabetic management of schoolchildren with T1DM.
Aim:To identify factors contributing to Greek nursing students’ stress and the coping strategies ... more Aim:To identify factors contributing to Greek nursing students’ stress and the coping strategies used. Background:Stress experienced by nursing students in the context of ongoing economic recession is as yet unexplored. Design:A cross-sectional study. Methodology:Undergraduate nursing students (n=424) completed the Student Nurse Stress Index (short version) and the Brief COPE questionnaires. Results:Most of the participants stated that their current financial status (81.7%) contributed towards their experience of stress, and they had higher scores on the interface worries subscale (p&lt;0.001). Female gender (p&lt;0.001) seniority (p=0.005) and stress of transportation from home to university (p=0.019) significantly increased the SNSI total score as well as most of the stress subscales scores. As far as coping subscales were concerned, higher means were shown in active/positive coping (mean 2.95), seeking support (mean 2.84), expression of negative feelings (mean 2.71) and avoidance (2.47). However, the use of higher maladaptive coping strategies was noted in cases presenting higher SNSI Total score, interface worries and personal problems. Conclusion: The introduction of stress management training and conflict management skills ought to be considered. Fund raising initiatives should be considered to provide financial assistance to those in need.
Background: Expatriation and relocation into a new cultural context constitute a psychological jo... more Background: Expatriation and relocation into a new cultural context constitute a psychological journey marked by exposure to potentially traumatic events, the abandonment of the homeland and the effort of seeking safety and a new beginning at all levels. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the Professional Quality of Life in Greek health professionals working with refugees and migrants. Methods: The Professional Quality of Life Scale (ProQOL V) and a demographic and work-related characteristics questionnaire were distributed to 90 health professionals working with migrants and refugees. Results: 25.6% of participants reported high CF risk while 75.7% expressed high to moderate potential for CS. Awareness of the factors associated with CF may help health professionals to prevent or offset the development of this condition. Conclusion: A compassionate organizational culture, clinical supervision and on-going education may protect health professionals working with migra...
To investigate possible correlations between stigma and burnout of nurses and non-graduate profes... more To investigate possible correlations between stigma and burnout of nurses and non-graduate professional caregivers of elderly with dementia in nursing homes. Research on dementia stigma in healthcare professionals as well as its relationship with their wellbeing is seriously lacking. This cross-sectional study involved a convenience sample of 171 nurses and other professional caregivers in 16 Greek elderly care units who responded to Maslah Burnout Inventory (ΜΒΙ) as well as the Family Stigma in Alzheimer's Disease Scale (FS-ADS). In order to find adjusted associations between independent variables and the stigma and burnout of professional caregivers, multiple linear regression analysis was used. Cognitive, emotional and behavioral attributions of the three dimensions of stigma were found to be independent predictive factors of burnout's dimensions which indicates that stigma nurses deposit on patients, contributes towards their burnout. Educational preparation of geriatric nurses should provide them with the option of seeing dementia as a normal stage of life since reducing stigma can contribute towards preventing and managing professional burnout. In order to reduce burnout, nurse managers should design lifelong learning programs on the basis of changing the stigmatizing negative cognitive and emotional attitudes of professionals towards dementia.
Background and PurposesThe present study was undertaken in order to evaluate the validity and rel... more Background and PurposesThe present study was undertaken in order to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Family Stigma in Alzheimer’s Disease Scale (FS-ADS) in the Greek population.MethodsThe Greek version of the FS-ADS as well as the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) was administered to 171 healthcare professional caring for people with dementia. Exploratory factor analysis was performed to examine the factor structure of the FS-ADS. Test–retest reliability was measured by administration of the FS-ADS in 20 individuals.ResultsPrincipal component analysis revealed 5, 8 and 3 factors (subscales) for each dimension of the original questionnaire, respectively, similar to other previously reported results in the literature. The overall Cronbach’s α was .899, yielding a high internal consistency. Test–retest reliability was very high (r = 0.903, p < .001). Statistically significant relationships were found between most of the FS-ADS dimensions and Maslach subscales.ConclusionThe...
Background: Research ethics involve requirements on daily work, the protection of dignity of subj... more Background: Research ethics involve requirements on daily work, the protection of dignity of subjects and the publication of the information in the research. However, when nurses participate in research they have to cope with three value systems; society; nursing and science which may be in conflict with the values of subjects, communities, and societies and create tensions and dilemmas in nursing. Method and material: Using the Medline and the Nursing Cinahl data base, the most important ethical issues which appear in bibliography, will be addressed. After a short description of the nature of nursing, and the advocacy role of nurses, the writer will attempt to highlight the possible conflicts that nurses have to deal with, when undertaking or participating in research. Results: The major ethical issues in conducting research are: a) Informed consent, b) Beneficence-Do not harm c) Respect for anonymity and confidentiality d) Respect for privacy. However, both the nature of nursing which focuses on caring, preventing harm and protecting dignity and the advocates role of nurses which calls for defending the rights of subjects, are sometimes incongruent with the ethics in research. Conclusions: Ethical issues, conflicting values, and ambiguity in decision making, are recurrently emerging from literature review on nursing research. Because of lack of clarity in ethical standards, nurses must develop an awareness of these issues and an effective framework to deal with problems involving human rights.
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This study aimed to investigate body image, body mass index (BMI) characteristics, social physique anxiety, self-esteem and possible correlations between the above factors. (2) Methods: 245 adults
engaged in training programs in gyms, as well as in track and field, football and basketball athletic activities completed (a) a sociodemographic questionnaire which recorded their BMI values and utilized the (b) Body-Esteem Scale for Adolescents and Adults, (c) the Social Physique Anxiety
Scale and (d) the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. (3) Results: Females and individuals with higher BMI reported statistically significant lower body-esteem and greater social physique anxiety levels compared to males and individuals with lower BMI, respectively (p < 0.05). A total of 25.3% of our
participants were labeled as “overweight”, while 20.4% had been overweight in the past. Significant differences were reported between body-esteem and social physique anxiety levels (p < 0.001); age
(p = 0.001); BMI value (p < 0.001) and never having a problem with body weight (p = 0.008). Additionally, individuals with lower body-esteem and greater social physique anxiety levels presented lower global self-esteem (p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: individuals’ engagement in physical activity
promotes physical as well as mental well-being, contributing to an improved quality of life, which may be the most important issue for health care professionals.
This study aimed to investigate body image, body mass index (BMI) characteristics, social physique anxiety, self-esteem and possible correlations between the above factors. (2) Methods: 245 adults
engaged in training programs in gyms, as well as in track and field, football and basketball athletic activities completed (a) a sociodemographic questionnaire which recorded their BMI values and utilized the (b) Body-Esteem Scale for Adolescents and Adults, (c) the Social Physique Anxiety
Scale and (d) the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. (3) Results: Females and individuals with higher BMI reported statistically significant lower body-esteem and greater social physique anxiety levels compared to males and individuals with lower BMI, respectively (p < 0.05). A total of 25.3% of our
participants were labeled as “overweight”, while 20.4% had been overweight in the past. Significant differences were reported between body-esteem and social physique anxiety levels (p < 0.001); age
(p = 0.001); BMI value (p < 0.001) and never having a problem with body weight (p = 0.008). Additionally, individuals with lower body-esteem and greater social physique anxiety levels presented lower global self-esteem (p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: individuals’ engagement in physical activity
promotes physical as well as mental well-being, contributing to an improved quality of life, which may be the most important issue for health care professionals.