Public health nursing
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Public health nursing · Sep 2004
Maternal bacterial vaginosis and fetal/infant mortality in eight Florida counties, 1999 to 2000.
This study determined the prevalence of maternal bacterial vaginosis (BV) in fetal/infant mortality cases and factors associated with BV. A retrospective descriptive study was utilized. Data were obtained from review of vital statistics and medical records of 176 women experiencing fetal/infant deaths in eight Florida counties, 1999 to 2000. ⋯ Women with BV were more likely to be non-White (OR 2.756, 95% CI 1.075, 7.066), single (OR 2.090, 95% CI 1.081, 7.246), <24 years old (t = 3.172, p = 0.002), and have <12 years of education (t = 2.56, p = 0.011). Findings support early screening and treatment for BV in women with these risk factors or a history of prior fetal/infant loss or preterm/low-birthweight infant. Factors contributing to racial disparity in BV and fetal/infant mortality need further exploration.
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Public health nursing · Sep 2004
An active learning experience in health policy for baccalaureate nursing students.
Nurses have the potential to promote the public's health through active involvement in shaping health and social policy. Preparing nursing students to influence public policy is a major component of the curriculum in public/community health nursing. A series of learning experiences was designed to engage students in this process. ⋯ The students present their findings to their peers and to the wider college community. Through these learning experiences, students gain practical experience in understanding the political process that leads to important policy change. This in turn prepares them for their roles as professional nurses and involved citizens.