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Introduction: Several factors influence the quality of life (QoL) of older adults, particularly those on hemodialysis. Fear of falling and its resulting limitations are significant contributors. This study investigated the association between fear of falling and QoL in older hemodialysis patients in Tehran hospitals . Methods: A descriptive-correlational design was used with 197 older hemodialysis patients in Tehran hospitals (2021) recruited through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire, the Falls Efficacy Scale-International , and the Leiden International Psychogeriatric Assessment of Life Functions scale to assess QoL. Spearman's rank correlation was performed using SPSS-21 software. Results: The mean QoL score (54.68 ± 16.09) indicated a moderate level. The mean fear of falling score (35.29 ± 13.54) reflected a high level. A significant negative correlation (R = -0.63, p = 0.001) was found between fear of falling and QoL. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that increased fear of falling is associated with a decrease in QoL among older hemodialysis patients. Further research is warranted to explore interventions aimed at managing fear of falling, preventing falls, and ultimately improving QoL in this population. Corresponding Author: Nahid Rejeh View Orcid in Profile You can search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar Profile

Background & Aim: Patients who receive percutaneous coronary interventions often display inadequate levels of self-care actions, which could create difficulties in managing the disease and achieving favorable treatment results. This study investigates the impact of using an educational mobile application on self-care behaviors in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. Methods & Materials: A randomized clinical trial was conducted with 110 patients undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions at Shahid Rajaei Hospital in Karaj, Iran, in 2023. The study enrolled and assigned them to either the intervention group (n=55) or the control group (n=55) by block randomization. In addition to training upon discharge, the experimental group received educational resources via a mobile phone application. The data collection instruments included MSCBS. Patients completed the MSCBS before the intervention and 4 weeks later. The data were analyzed with SPSS 21. The study's level of significance was set to P

Objective(s): This study was conducted to determine the satisfaction of patients admitted to medical centers in Ilam in 2020-2021. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of 200 patients who admitted with Covid-19 in medical centers of Ilam, Iran, from December 21, 2020 to March 21, 2021. Data collected using a questionnaire on demographic information and symptoms, a short form Quality from the Patient's Perspective (QPP-12) and Patient Satisfaction Index (PSI). The data was analyzed using SPSS version 22. Results: The mean age of patients was 49.62±15.05. The mean quality score of hospital care from the patients' point of view was 46.99±5.83, and in 83% of cases, the quality of care was optimal. Also, the mean satisfaction score of the patients was 3.47±0.34 and 87% of the patients expressed moderate satisfaction. Patient satisfaction and quality of care showed a positive and significant relationship P

Background and Objectives: Most patients experience anxiety during the Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL). One of the on-pharmacological ways to control anxiety in patients with ESWL is acupressure. This study aims to determine the effect of acupressure on anxiety in older women candidates for ESWL Methods: This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 66 eligible older women candidates for ESWL referred to Ordibehesht Surgical Center in Isfahan, Iran in 2021. They were selected by a continuous sampling method and assigned to the intervention and control groups by the block randomization method. The intervention group received acupressure for 20 minutes, while in the control group, the acupoints were only touched (without applying pressure). Data collection tools were the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and Visual Anxiety Scale, completed 60 minutes before and immediately after the intervention. T-test, chi-square test, and Mann-Whitney U test were used to analyze the data. Results: The two groups were similar in terms of demographic variables. Before the intervention, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in anxiety (P> 0.05). After the intervention, the mean severity of anxiety was 3.70±0.77 in the experimental group and 7.36±0.55 in the control group. The mean post-test quality of anxiety was 35.48±5.97 in the intervention group and 61.39±2.42 in the control group. These differences between the two groups were statistically significant (P

BackgroundAt the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare managers at hospitals did not have sufficient experiences to appropriately respond to the COVID-19 outbreak. Due to a lack of preparedness, many challenges arose in the healthcare system, and each country developed and implemented strategies depending on national policies. This study aimed to understand challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic and strategies used in Iranian hospitals.MethodsA qualitative research was conducted in four hospitals in an urban area of Iran. In-depth semi-structured interviews were performed with 32 participants including healthcare managers, nurses, and medical doctors. Data underwent qualitative content analysis.ResultsFour categories were developed: ‘capacity expansion’, ‘management affairs’, ‘diagnostic services,” and therapeutic services’. Each category consisted of 2–3 subcategories.ConclusionHospitals should be prepared to intelligently respond to future epidemics. It is necessary to develop a comprehensive epidemic plan for the management of disasters to reduce the impact of the epidemic and minimize the risk to public health and ensure that resources are allocated in an efficient and effective manner.

Objective (s): This study was conducted in 2020-21 with the aim of determining the satisfaction of patients admitted to Corona Medical Center in Ila, Iran. Methods: This was a descriptive study that was conducted on 200 inpatients with covid-19 in medical centers in Ilam province, Iran from December 21, 2020 to March 21, 2021. The data was collected using a questionnaire including items on demographic information and disease symptoms and the Persian version of patient satisfaction index (PSI). The data was analyzed using SPSS- 22 statistical software an independent t-test and one-way analysis of variance statistical methods. Results: The results showed that the mean score of patient satisfaction was 3.47 ± 0.34. Education (P = 0.02), length of hospital stay (P = 0.025), patient history of hospitalization (P = 0.01) and symptoms of Covid-19 such as chest pain (p=0.02) and gait disturbance (P = 0.001) showed significant relationships with patients’ satisfaction. The highest level of patient satisfaction was for patient education (3.70±0.56) and the lowest level of satisfaction was for trust (3.33±0.45). Conclusion: Patient satisfaction with the services provided in the hospital is considered a very important indicator for evaluating the quality of care and treatment services. Health status, personal characteristics and characteristics of the health system are factors related to patient satisfaction.

Background and Objectives: One of the most important concerns of the families of hospitalized elderly patients is their comfort. Considering the importance of comfort in the elderly and its psychological and physical effects on their families, this study aims to investigate the relationship between the elderly patients’ comfort and the stress, anxiety and depression of their families. Methods: This is a descriptive correlational study on 136 elderly people admitted to public and private hospitals in Sari, Iran and their families who were selected by a convenience sampling method. Data collection instruments were the 21-item depression anxiety stress scale and the hospice comfort questionnaire. The correlation between the components of comfort, stress, anxiety and depression was analyzed by Pearson correlation test. Linear regression analysis was used to predict the comfort level of the elderly based on the stress level of their family members. Statistical calculations were performed in SPSS software, version 24. Results: The mean±SD age of the family group was 39.42±8.72 years and 88 (50.9%) were female. Family members aged >50 and females had higher depression, anxiety and stress (P

Background and Objectives: The elderly patients undergoing hemodialysis are at higher risk for falling and its critical outcomes compared with their healthy counterparts. Falls can lead to the individual becoming fearful of experiencing subsequent falls. Yet little is known about the fear of falling in this high risk population. The present study aimed to assess the fear of falling and its contributing factors in the elderly patients with the history of falls undergoing hemodialysis, who referred to the hospitals in Tehran city in 2021 Methods: In this descriptive analytic cross sectional study, which was performed on 197 patients undergoing hemodialysis referring to Tehran city hospitals in 2021. Patients were selected with convenience sampling. The instruments for data collection was demographic characteristics scale, Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I) . Data analysis was done by using descriptive and inferential tests and was shown via SPSS v.21 software. Results: Mean age of participants was 70.02‌±‌8.12 years and (63.5%) were men. Mean Falls Efficacy Scale-International Score was 35.29‌±‌13.54 points, which is consistent with a high fear of falling. There was consistency between adherence to fear of falling and demographic information (P

Objective (s): This study aimed to translate and initially validate the Persian version of 24- item Family Satisfaction in the Intensive Care Unit (FS-ICU-24). Methods: This was a methodological study and conducted on 150 family members hospitalized in the Intensive Care Units of hospitals in Shiraz, Iran. The translation of the main questionnaire was done using the backward-forward method. The content validity of the questionnaire was performed by interviewing 15 experts and the face validity was carried out qualitatively through interviewing 10 family members of hospitalized patients. Then, the structural validity was assessed using the known groups comparison. Convergent validity was assessed by measuring the correlation between the Persian version of the FS-ICU-24 and the Persian version of the Patients Needs Assessment Questionnaire (CCFNI). Reliability was evaluated using internal consistency analysis (Cronbachchr('39')s alpha). Results: The results obtained from known groups comparison indicated that the mean satisfaction score in male was significantly higher than female as expected (p=0.001). Convergent validity showed a significant correlation between the Persian version of the FS-ICU-24 and the CCFNI questionnaires (p

Objective (s): Fear of falling is the main fear among older adults and is an independent risk factor for decreased mobility and quality of life. Therefore, a standard tool is needed to assess the fear of falling. The Geriatric Fear of Falling Measure is one of the common tools that used for this purpose. The present study aimed to translate and initially validate the Persian version of the questionnaire in Iran. Methods: This was a methodological study and was conducted on 200 elderly people. After translating and obtaining opinions of experts, the content and face validity of the questionnaire were determined qualitatively. Then, the validity of the GFFM was assessed through convergent validity (correlation test between the Persian version of the GFFM and the Activities Specific Balance Confidence Scale-ABC questionnaire) and known group comparison. Reliability was evaluated using internal consistency (Cronbachchr('39')s alpha). Results: The results obtained from known groups comparison indicated that the questionnaire well differentiated among participants who were differed in self-reported health condition. The convergent validity showed a significant correlation between the Persian version of the GFFM and the ABC questionnaires. The Cronbachchr('39')s alpha coefficient for the dimensions and the total questionnaire was between 0.75 and 0.89. Conclusion: The findings indicated that the Persian version of the GFFM is a valid instrument and can be used in a variety of situations, including clinical and research environments. It is suggested that the future studies assess the structural validity of the GFFM using factor analysis with a bigger sample size.

Abstract Background Nurses have a vital role in the healthcare system. One of the basic steps to increase their happiness is to recognize factors such as job satisfaction and quality of working life. Therefore, the goal of the present study was to examine the relationship between happiness and quality of working life and job satisfaction among nursing personnel. Methods This descriptive study was carried out on 270 hospital nurses who worked in emergency departments in Iran. Nurses were recruited through the census method. Data collection instruments included the Oxford Happiness Inventory (OHI), the Quality of Work Life Questionnaire (QWL), and the Job Satisfaction Questionnaire (JSQ). Data were explored using descriptive statistics, and stepwise multiple linear regression analysis. Results The mean age of participants was 30.1 ± 6.26 years. The mean happiness score was 38.5 ± 16.22, the mean Quality of Working Life (QWL) score was 84.3 ± 17.62, and the mean job satisfaction score was found to be 45.5 ± 13.57); corresponding to moderate levels of attributes. The results obtained from the ordinary least-square (OLS) regression indicated that happiness significantly was associated with economic status and satisfaction with closure (R2: 0.38). Conclusion Overall the current study found that nurses who work in emergency departments did not feel happy. Additionally, the findings suggest that their happiness were associated with their economic status, and closure over their duties.

Background and Objective: Angina pectoris is one of the most common among heart diseases. Low health literacy is associated with a high prevalence of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease. Considering the significant burden of heart disease, improving the level of health literacy of individuals can play a decisive role in the prevention and treatment of these diseases and saving resources. The aim of this study was to investigate the level of health in patients to Angina pectoris, who referred to selected hospitals in Tehran. Materials and Methods:This study is a descriptive-analytical study that was performed on 405 patients with angina referred to the heart clinics of selected hospitals in Tehran in 2017. Patients were selected by convenience sampling. Data were collected using demographic questionnaires, Health Literacy of Iranian Adults (HELIA) and analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistics and Anova with SPSS software version 20. Results:: The mean age of the patients was 53.08. The average score of health literacy of patients with angina pectoris (63.77 ± 15.44) is based on the fact that it can be said that the subjects in terms of health literacy were not at a sufficient level. The results of Anova statistical test showed There is a statistically significant relationship between health literacy level and age variables, education level, employment status, income level, duration of heart disease and heart disease and ways of obtaining medical information (p

Objective (s): Assessing the disability of the elderly requires a specific instrument. The Groningen Frailty Inventory is one of the known instruments that used to measure the ability of the elderly. The present study aimed to translate and initially validate the Persian version of the GFI questionnaire. Methods: The present study was a methodological study which was performed on 139 elderly people. The questionnaire was translated from English into Persian and face and content validity were determined qualitatively. The quantitative validation was performed using construct validity (known groups comparison and concurrent validity). The General Anxiety Inventory was used for concurrent validity. Reliability was assessed by estimating internal consistency and test-retest analyses. Results: The results of the known groups analysis showed that the questionnaire well differentiated disability score in older men versus women as hypothesized. Older people with lower education also had lower score as compared to well-educated older participants. Concurrent validity indicated a significant correlation between the Persian version of the Groningen Frailty and the General Anxiety Inventory. The internal consistency (Kuder- Richardson) was 0.762. Test-retest reliability (ICC) of the questionnaire with a two-weeks interval was 0.61. Conclusion: The findings indicated that the Persian version of Groningen Frailty Indicator is a valid instrument and now could be used for measuring in research and clinical practice. It is suggested that the future studies assess the structural validity of the GFI using factor analysis with a bigger sample size.

Abstract Background It is essential to better understand the caregiving burden and its determinants to support caregivers. The aim of this study was to test the validity and reliability (internal consistency) of the caregiver burden inventory (CBI) in Iranian caregivers of elderly patients with Alzheimer. Methods A cross sectional study was conducted to translate and validate the CBI in Iran. The structural validity of the scale was evaluated by exploratory factor analysis. The concurrent validity was tested correlating the CBI scores with the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) scores. The internal consistency reliability was assessed using the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Results In total, we enrolled 315 caregivers of elderly patients with Alzheimer disease (79% women, mean age 56.5 ± 13.9). The structural validity of the CBI as assessed by exploratory factor analysis indicated three factors (emotional/psychological, time-dependence and physical burden) that jointly explained 45.21% of the total variance observed. The Pearson correlation coefficient for the relationship between the scores obtained on the Caregiver Burden Inventory and the BAI and the BDI were 0.69 and 0.49 respectively, confirming the concurrent validity. The Cronbach’s alpha for the CBI was 0.91 ranging from 0.78 to 0.92 for its subscales. Conclusion Used in clinical practice and research, the CBI was verified to be a proper multidimensional instrument for evaluating the burden in caregivers of elderly patients with Alzheimer disease.

Abstract Background Evaluating knowledge in patients with coronary artery disease requires a specific measure. The aim of the present study was to translate and evaluate the CADE-Q in patients with coronary artery disease in Iran. Methods Forward-backward procedure was applied to translate the questionnaire from English into Persian. Then a cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate psychometric properties of the questionnaire. A sample of patients with coronary artery disease attending to cardiac departments of teaching hospitals affiliated to medical universities in Tehran, Iran completed the 19-item CADE-Q from April to December 2017. Structural validity of CADE-Q was assessed using both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Reliability was examined using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Stability was evaluated by estimation intraclass correlation coefficient. Results In all 500 patients participated in the study. The mean age of patients was 53.63. (SD = 14.36) years, and 57% were male. The results obtained from the exploratory factor analysis showed a four factor solution (lifestyle habits and exercise, risk factors, diagnosis and treatment, signals & symptoms and medicine) that jointly explained 48.9% of the total variance observed. However, the second-order confirmatory factor analysis supported the three-factor solution while convergent and divergent validity were not confirmed. Finally, the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.84 ranging from 0.50 to 0.82 was obtained for the scale and its subscales. In addition, the ICC value of 0.88 showed satisfactory stability for the questionnaire. Conclusion The Coronary Artery Disease Education Questionnaire was found to be a multidimensional instrument. The results confirmed the factor structure of the questionnaire with a second-order analysis. Since the convergent and divergent validity of the scale were not confirmed, further assessment is essential to establish fitness of the questionnaire in Iran.

Introduction: The experience of bereavement is associated with severe physical, psychological, social and spiritual reactions in the parents of children with cancer. Because of that, the families of these children need to receive bereavement services. The aim of this study was to explore the bereavement needs of families of children with cancer from the perspective of health caregiver as people who have a close relationship with the child and the family.Methods: This qualitative descriptive study design in. In total 15 semi-structured interviews were conducted using a purposive sampling in 2018. Interviews were recorded and transcribed and conventional content analysis was used to analysis the data. The Trustworthiness of the data were assessed according to the criteria of Lincoln and Guba.Results: From the data analysis, needs of the bereaved family were categorized in three dimension including “achieving peace,” “Abandoned family access to care,” and “continuing care.” The category of “achieving peace” includes spiritual and existential support, companionship with the family, contact with other bereaved families, support in passing and accepting the bereaved and continuing empathetic communication with the family, the category “Abandoned family access to care” includes the promotion of family self-control, awareness of end-of-life care to the family, and the category of “continuing care,” includes formal and informal family care and individualized care.Conclusion: It is necessary for the care team to pay special focus to family considering the needs of the family about the death of the patient and the challenges of the family bereavement period. It is recommended that members of the health care team should be trained in assessing family needs, identifying risks of adverse outcomes, continuing care, and providing resources during bereavement. The needs of the bereaved family should also be addressed in their care plan.

Background and Aim: Removal of permanent teeth is one of the outsourced dental practices in dental clinics. Statistics and reasons can be fluctuated due to societal changes at the community level, such as the economic category and the level of social and cultural empowerment of individuals, the phenomenon of aging, or any change in the age-old population of the population. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the frequency and etiology of tooth extraction with demographic factors and the health status of patients referred to the Faculty of Dentistry. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in spring of 2016 from 200 patients referred to Shahed University of Dentistry. Data were collected through a demographic questionnaire and a dental exam form. Data were analyzed using SPSS 21 software using ANOVA and T-test. Findings: In this study were 59% of causes of caries tooth extraction, 21.9% periodontal and 22.4% of prosthodontics. There was a significant difference between educational level and tooth extraction due to periodontal and paradoxical causes and the status of employment and tooth extraction due to periodontal disease and economic status with periodontal and prosthodontics causes, paradigm and orthodontic findings. There was no significant difference between the causes of tooth extraction between single and married patients (p> 0.05). There was a significant difference between the causes of caries, periodontal, impaction and orthodontic according to the condition of oral hygiene (p

Abstract Background Population aging is an important phenomenon for many countries worldwide. Considering the growing trend of aging population in Iran, it is very important to consider beliefs and perceptions of old people about aging. The Aging Perception Questionnaire (APQ) is one of the most common instruments that used to measure aging comprehension. The present study was a methodological inquiry that aimed to examine validity and reliability of the Persian version of the Aging Perception Questionnaire (APQ). Methods Forward-backward procedure was used for translation. Content validity and face validity were evaluated qualitatively. In order to evaluate construct validity a cross section study was conducted and both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were performed. In order to determine reliability, internal consistency (the Cronbach’s alpha) and stability (Intraclass Correlation Coefficient -ICC) were estimated. Results A total of 500 elderly people attending the community centers in Tehran, Iran were entered in other study and completed the Persian version of the questionnaire. Most elderly were female (52.8%).The mean age of participants was 68.33 (SD ± 6.10) years. The results obtained from exploratory factor analysis showed a four-factors solution (consequences negative, emotional representation, control positive and consequences positive) that jointly explained 52.8% of the total variance observed. In addition the confirmatory factory analysis showed a good fit for the data. Finally, the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.83 ranging from 0.80 to 0.87 was obtained for the whole scale and the subscales. The ICC value of 0.96 ranging from 0.90 to 0.98 was found for the whole scale and the subscales. Conclusion The results indicated that the Persian version of APQ is valid and can be used to measure aging perception in Iran.

Objective (s): Caring for elderly with Alzheimer can lead to the development or exacerbation of many physical and psychological problems for caregivers. The purpose of this study was to assess the anxiety and depression in caregivers of elderly with Alzheimer. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of 315 caregivers of elderly people with Alzheimer in Tehran, Iran. Data were collected by demographic questionnaire, the Beck Anxiety Inventory and the Beck Depression Inventory. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Results: The mean and standard deviation of caregivers’ anxiety was 12.61± 10.48 which was significantly higher in women than men (p = 0.004). The mean and standard deviation of caregivers’ depression was 13.23 ± 9.52 which was significantly higher in women than men (p = 0.001). The results of t-test and one-way analysis of variance showed that there was a significant difference between total anxiety score by gender, caregiver-to-elderly ratio, health status and caregivers’ income status (p = 0.001). There was also a significant difference between the overall score of depression and marital status, gender, income and caregivers health status (p = 0.001). Conclusion: The study showed that Alzheimerchr('39')s caregivers experience mild to moderate levels of anxiety and depression. The findings suggest strategic planning to increase social support among Alzheimerchr('39')s caregivers is essential.

Objective (s): To translate and validate the Caregiver Burden Inventory: (CBI) in Iran. Methods: The questionnaire was translated from English into Persian and face and content validity were determined qualitatively. Quantitative validation was performed using construct validity (known groups comparison and criterion validity). The Beck depression inventory and Beck anxiety inventory were used for criterion validity. Reliability was assessed by estimating internal consistency and test-retest analyses. Results: In all 150 Alzheimer patients’ caregivers completed the Persian version of the CBI. The results obtained from known groups comparison showed that the pressure burden care of caregivers with moderate health level was significantly lower than other caregivers (p = 0.0001). Criterion validity showed a significant correlation between Persian version of CBI with Beck depression inventory (r =0.508) and Beck anxiety inventory (r = 0.686). The internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha) was 0.930. Test-retest reliability (ICC) of the questionnaire with interval time of two weeks was 0.960. Conclusion: The findings indicated that the Persian version of Caregiver Burden Inventory (CBI) is a valid instrument and now could be used for measuring caregivers’ burden in research and clinical practice.

Objective (s): The Heart Failure Knowledge Scale: (HFKS) is an instrument for measuring the knowledge of patients with heart failure disease. This study aimed to translate and validate the questionnaire in Iran. Methods: This was a methodological study. After translation from English into Persian and obtaining the views of experts, the content and face validity of the questionnaire were determined qualitatively. In order to determine the validity known groups comparison and criterion validity (correlation coefficient between Persian version of HFKS and European Heart Failure Self-Care Behavior and Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire-MLHF) were performed. Reliability was examined using internal consistency analysis and test re test. Results: In all 150 patients with coronary hear disease completed the questionnaire. The results of known groups comparison showed that the mean knowledge of patients with heart failure with moderate economic level was significantly higher than other patients (p = 0.0001). Criterion validity showed a significant correlation between Persian version of the HFKS and the European Heart Failure Self-Care Behavior (r = 0.83) and Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire-MLHF (r = 0.175). The internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha) was 0.84. Test-retest reliability (ICC) of the questionnaire with interval time of two weeks was 0.88 (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The findings indicated that the Iranian version of the HFKS is a valid instrument and could be used to measure the knowledge of patients with heart failure in research and treatment departments. It is suggested that in the future studies the construct validity of the HFKS questionnaire should be investigated using a factor analysis in a more representative sample.

Pain and anxiety are major issues among older patients with burn injuries. Complementary medicine and non-pharmacological methods can relieve pain and anxiety in older people, but comparison of the effects of these methods needs further research. This study aimed to compare the effects of auditory and visual distractions on pain severity and pain anxiety in older outpatients referred to a burn clinic for dressing change. In this randomized controlled clinical trial, older men were randomly assigned to three groups as auditory distraction, visual distraction, and control (n = 45 in each group). The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Burn Specific Pain Anxiety Scale (BSPAS) were used to asses pain severity and pain anxiety before and immediately after the interventions, and after wound dressing. Reduction in pain severity and pain anxiety after visual distraction was reported. Auditory distraction only reduced pain anxiety. Therefore, visual distraction had a better effect on alleviating pain anxiety compared with auditory distraction. Visual distraction is suggested to be used during dressing changes for older outpatients with burn injuries in outpatient clinics in order to reduce their burn-related suffering and improve their collaboration with the therapeutic regimen.

objective (s): The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Pilates on patients with type 2 diabetes Methods: A randomized controlled trial was carried out in forty patients with a diagnosis of diabetes type 2. Patients were randomly assigned to one of two groups: experimental group (EG) that in addition to the usual care performed eight weeks of pilates exercises and the control group (CG) that continued to receive the usual care and did not undergo any other intervention. Participants evaluated before and one week after the intervention completed. The quality of life questionnaire (CASP-19) and the short-term test (AMTs) were used to collect data. Results: The groups were homogeneous at baseline. According to the statistical analysis, no significant improvement was observed in the EG. Conclusion: The study did not show benefit for pilates group compared to control group. It is suggested that in the future, this study should be carried out with bigger sample size, increasing the intervention time and a specific questionnaire for assessing the quality of life of the elderly.

Abstract Background Assessing quality of life (QOL) in elderly needs specific instruments. The Older People’s Quality of Life Questionnaire (OPQOL-35) is one of the common tools that used for measuring quality of life in elderly populations. The questionnaires contains 35 items tapping into eight domains including life overall, health, social relationships and participation, independence, control over life and freedom, home and neighborhood, psychological and emotional well-being, financial circumstances, culture and religion. This study aimed to translate and validate the OPQOL-35 in Iran. Methods Forward-backward procedure was applied to translate the original questionnaire from English into Persian. Then following qualitative face and content validity, a sample of elderly people completed the questionnaire. In order to evaluate the construct validity, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses was performed. Subsequently, convergent and divergent validity of the factors were evaluated. Reliability was evaluated by performing internal consistency analysis and Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC). Results In all 500 older people completed the questionnaire. The mean age of participant was 68.92 (SD = 6.97) years, and mostly were males (66.6%). The result of exploratory factor analysis showed 8 factors with Eigen values of greater than one, which explained 67.4% of the variance observed. Confirmatory factor analysis showed acceptable fit indexes for the data [Comparative Fit Index (CFI) = 0.92, Minimum Discrepancy Function by Degrees of Freedom divided (CMIN/DF) = 2.832, Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) = 0.067]. The convergent and divergent validity did not support three latent factors (Life overall, Independence, control over life, freedom and Psychological and emotional well-being). Convergent and divergent validity shown that construct fulfilled for the health, social relationships and participation, home and neighborhood, financial circumstances, culture and religion latent factors, however the results did not support the convergent and divergent validity for three latent factors (Life overall, Independence, control over life, freedom and Psychological and emotional well-being). Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for the subscales ranged from 0.65–0.95. Test-retest reliability (ICC) of the questionnaire with two weeks interval were ranged from 0.88–0.95 indicating a good range of reliability. Conclusion The findings suggest that the Iranian version of OPQOL-35 is a valid measure for assessing quality of life in elderly populations in different settings.

Objective (s): Aging perception is recognized as one of the important circles associated with the problems of the elderly. Aging perception Questionnaire (APQ) is one of the common tools that measures agin perception. The purpose of this study was to validate the Persian version of the APQ. Methods: This was a methodological study and was conducted on 200 elderly people. After translating and obtaining opinions of Persian literature and gerentologist experts, the content and face validity of the questionnaire were determined qualitatively. Then, the validity of the aging perception questionnaire was assessed through convergent validity (correlation test between the Persian version of the APQ and CASP-19 questionnaire) and known group comparison (comparing male and female perception). Reliability was evaluated using internal consistency (Cronbachchr('39')s alpha) and stability (ICC). Results: The known group comparison showed that the instrument discriminated well between men and women where men significantly scored higher than women. Convergent validity showed a significant correlation between the Persian version of the APQ and CASP-19 questionnaires. Cronbachchr('39')s alpha coefficient for the dimensions and total questionnaire was between 0.64 and 0.81. Test-retest reliability (ICC) of the questionnaire with a two-week interval was between 0.65 and 0.96. Conclusion: The findings indicated that the Persian version of the APQ Questionnaire is a valid instrument and can be used in a variety of situations, including clinical and research environments.

This study aimed to compare the effects of reflexology and aromatherapy massage on the severity of restless legs syndrome (RLS) in 105 female patients undergoing hemodialysis. A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted in a hemodialysis center with 48 beds in a high turnover hospital in an urban area of Iran. Intervention groups received reflexology (n = 35) and aromatherapy massage using lavender essential oil (n = 35) for 24 sessions, and the placebo group (n = 35) received simple foot massage. The restless legs syndrome rating scale was used to assess RLS severity in the groups before the intervention and after 4 and 8 weeks of the interventions. Results obtained by the mixed model analysis 3 * 3 (3 groups * 3 times) revealed the significant effect of time, group, and the time–group interrelationship (p = 0.001). Aromatherapy massage reduced the RLS severity, but reflexology did not appear to cause any significant reduction in it. Therefore, we suggest that aromatherapy massage be incorporated into routine care for relieving the ailment and suffering of patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Objective (s): Cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of death in developed and developing countries. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a family-centered empowerment model (FCEM) on quality of life in elderly patients with angina. Methods: This was a randomized trial on a convenient sample of patients 60 years and older with angina hospitalized in cardiology clinics of a teaching hospital in Qazvin, Iran. Patients were randomized to receive intervention or the usual care. The intervention group received a four dimensions program (perceived threat with group discussion method, self-efficacy with problem solving methods, self-esteem with educational partnership and outcome and process evaluations). To collect data we used an specific FCEM instrument, and the Seattle Angina Questionnaire. Results: Following the implementation of the program the intervention in group showed better quality of life in all dimensions compared to their own baseline score and the control group (p

Abstract Background Angina pectoris causes substantial psychological and functional disabilities and adversely effects quality of life in patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the psychometric properties including validity and reliability of the Farsi version of the Seattle angina questionnaire. Methods The ‘forward-backward’ procedure was applied to translate this questionnaire from English to Farsi. The translated version of the Seattle angina questionnaire was assessed in terms of validity and reliability with a convenience sample of 200 patients suffering from angina pectoris who were recruited from the inpatient ward (post CCU) and outpatient department at two teaching hospitals in an urban area of Iran. Validity was assessed using content, face and construct validity. The calculation of the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient and the test-retest method helped with the assessment of reliability of the questionnaire’s five subscales. Construct validity of the questionnaire was evaluated using exploratory factor analysis. Results The results of exploratory factor analysis indicated a five-factor solution for the questionnaire including ‘physical limitation in middle to strenuous activities’, ‘physical limitation in slight activities’, ‘angina pattern and discomfort of treatment’, ‘treatment satisfaction’ and ‘disease perception’ that jointly accounted for 64.42% of variance observed. Convergent validity was mostly supported by the pattern of association between the Seattle angina questionnaire-Farsi version and the SF-36. Cronbach’s alpha of the subscales ranged from 0.60 to 0.86 and test-retest scores ranged from 0.79 to 0.97 indicating a good range of reliability. Conclusions The Seattle angina questionnaire-Farsi version had acceptable psychometric properties. Therefore, it can be used to assess health-related quality of life and assess the effects of different medical and nursing interventions on patients’ quality of life.

Introduction: Disruptive behaviors are one of the most topics affecting the wellbeing of organizations, therefore, it has become a significant research area. The purpose of this study was to determine experiences and perceptions of nurses who were involved in disruptive behaviors. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted by using a conventional content analysis. The data was obtained through 15 unstructured and in-depth interviews with nurses in six hospitals of Tehran city, Iran. A purposive sampling method was used. All interviews were recorded, typed and analyzed simultaneously. Results: The main theme obtained from the nurses’ views and experiences analysis about disruptive behaviors were injustice and discrimination in hospitals including injustice in payments, work division, interactions, and judgment and evaluations. Conclusion: It seems that the best way to prevent and correct the disruptive behaviors was to eliminate the perceived nurses’ injustice feeling and establishment the justice and fairness in organizations.

Introduction: Coronary artery disease is the most common type of cardiovascular disease. Despite the increasing number of patients with coronary artery disease, the lived experiences of these patients have remained unknown. The purpose of the study was to understand the lived experiences of elderly patients with coronary artery disease. Methods: This qualitative research was conducted using an interpretive phenomenological approach. Participants included thirteen elderly patients (9 males and 4 females) with coronary artery disease selective of purposive sampling method from Coronary Care Unit of Shahid Beheshti Hospital in Qom, 2016. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews between 55 - 80 minutes. The interviews were recorded and transcribed. The Van Manen's proposed six steps was used to analyze the data. Results: The main theme of study was "living with ups and downs". It included sub-themes of 1) losing calmness,2) trying to achieve calmness through spirituality, 3) losing health, 4) trying to promote health through modification of lifestyle, 5) perceiving family support, 6) living in fear, 7) living with a damaged heart". Conclusion: Findings of the research indicated that the coronary artery disease led patients to experience ups and downs for the participations. After the disease, they were trying to achieve calmness through some strategies. Members of the treatment team, especially nurses should provide self-care education for to make them be have successfully in this field.

Objective (s): Due to the increasing elderly population in the world, need to access accurate data for planning and action to protect and promote the health of the elderly is more attention. Choosing right tools with good psychometrics properties is a prerequisite for access accurate data. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the common tool used measuring quality of life. Methods: A comprehensive search of databases of Pubmed, Medline, and Science Direct was conducted, using the related keywords to development and psychometrics of older quality of life instruments. Results: In all a total of 342 papers were included in this review. Most commonly used quality of life measures in elderly were generic instruments (81.3%). Among generic measures the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) was widely used (26.8%), while only specific tools to measure quality of life in elderly people accounted for 18.7%. Among specific measures the World Health Organization Quality of Life - OLD was widely used (9.6%). Conclusion: The results revealed that CASP-19, OPQOL-BRIEF and WHOQOL-AGE are the best specific measures that can be recommended for measuring quality of life in elderly populations.

Introduction. Coronary angiography can cause pain and fatigue in patients. Hand reflexology as complementary and integrative care approach has been suggested to help with the reduction of patient’s pain and fatigue. Aim. This study aimed to investigate the effect of hand reflexology on pain and fatigue in patients after coronary angiography. Design. A randomized controlled clinical trial. Methods. This study was conducted on 90 patients in an angiography department of a referral hospital in an urban area of Iran. The patients were randomly divided into two interventions (n = 45) and control (n = 45) groups. Hand reflexology was performed for 20 minutes in the intervention group. Pain and fatigue in the groups were measured immediately, 4 and 6 hours after the intervention. Results. Statistically significant differences were observed in pain and fatigue scores between the groups after the intervention (P=0.001). The intervention had medium to large effects on the patients’ pain and fatigue. Hand reflexology as a nonpharmacological and safe technique can be used by nurses along with other pharmacologic interventions in order to reduce patients’ suffering related to invasive procedures. The trial is registered with IRCT20110912007529N17.

Objective (s): Assessing quality of life in elderly needed specific instrument. The Older People’s Quality of Life Questionnaire (OPQOL-35) is one of the common measure used for assessing quality of life of the elderly. This study aimed to translate and validate the Persian version of OPQOL-35, in Iran. This questionnaire consists of 35 items measuring life overall, health, social relationships and participation, independence, control over life and freedom, home and neighborhood, psychological and emotional well-being, financial circumstances, leisure, activities and religion. Methods: Forward-backward procedure was used to translate the questionnaire into Persian. Then, face validity and content validity was performed. Data were collected from 200 older people. In order to evaluate the construct validity, known-groups comparison (elders living alone vs. elder living with family or someone) was performed. The correlation between the OPQOL-35 and SF-36 was tested to establish criterion validity. Reliability was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) using test- retest analysis. Results: The result of known- groups comparisons showed that quality of life in elders living alone was significantly lower than other elders (P< 0.001). Criterion validity represented a significant correlation between Persian version of the OPQOL-35 and the SF-36 (P

Objective (s): To translate and validate a Persian version of the AAQ in Iran. The AAQ consists of 24 items which cover three theoretical domains: physical change, psychological growth, and psychosocial loss. Methods: The existing AAQ (English version) was translated into Persian according to process of translation and adaptation of instruments of The World Health Organization protocol. Data were then collected from 200 older people. Reliability (internal consistency, test- retest reliability) face validity, content validity, known-groups comparison and criterion validity of the AAQ, with the SF-36, and the WHOQOL, were examined. Results: The mean age of participants was 67.66 ±6.28, and more than half (50.5%) were female. There was satisfactory internal consistency (Cronbach’s a 0.80–0.89) for the subscales. Test-retest reliability (ICC) of the questionnaire with interval time of two weeks was 0.97(p < 0.001). The result of known-groups comparison showed that the questionnaire discriminated between subgroups of elderly people differing in gender, and education. Criterion validity was assessed by comparing scores for the eight dimensions of the SF-36, four factors of the WHOQOL and four factors of the AAQ (Persian version). The AAQ showed significant correlation with SF-36, and WHOQOL in most dimensions. Conclusion: We tested and validated a Persian version of the AAQ with 24 items. It appears to be a promising tool, providing reliable and valid data helping for measuring Attitudes to Ageing among elders in different settings such as clinics, homes and research environments. It is recommended in the future studies that structural validity of the Persian version AAQ in larger sample factor analysis be examined.

Objective (s): This study aimed to translate and validate a Persian version of the CASP-19, in Iran. Methods: The existing CASP-19 (English version) was translated into Persian version according to the World Health Organization protocol for translation and adaptation of instruments. The operational measure (CASP-19) consists of 19 Likert-scaled items that cover four theoretical domains: control, autonomy, self-realization and pleasure. Data were collected from 100 older people. Reliability (internal consistency, test- retest reliability) face validity, content validity, known groups comparisons and criterion validity of the CASP-19 and the SF-36, were examined. Results: The mean age of the participants was 69.6 (standard deviation± 7.32) years, and more than half (54%) were female. We observed satisfactory internal consistency (Cronbach’s a 0.70–0.88) for the subscales. Test-retest reliability (ICC) of the questionnaire with two weeks interval was 0.96(p < 0.001). The result of known- groups comparisons showed that the questionnaire discriminated subgroups of elderly people who differed in neglect. Criterion validity was assessed by comparing SF-36 and CASP-19 (Persian version). Relationship between translated scale and the SF-36 subscales showed significant correlation in most dimensions. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the CASP-10 is a valid measure for assessing quality of life in elderly populations in different settings.

Pain associated with fistula cannulation is a challenge for nurses who provide care to older patients undergoing hemodialysis. Several non-pharmacological methods have been suggested for relieving fistula cannulation pain, but the benefits of visual and auditory distraction methods among older patients undergoing hemodialysis have not been investigated yet. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the effects of visual and auditory distractions on fistula cannulation pain among older patients undergoing hemodialysis. This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 120 older patients undergoing hemodialysis. They were randomly assigned to three groups of visual distraction, auditory distraction, and the control (n = 40 in each group) using a simple random assignment method. The distraction interventions continued for three consecutive sessions and the numeric rating scale of pain severity was used for data collection. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis using SPSS. It was found that pain severity significantly reduced after the distraction interventions in either the auditory or visual distraction groups and also after all three distraction sessions (p = 0.001). However, visual distraction had a better effect on the reduction of pain severity. Therefore, while both visual and auditory distractions reduced pain severity in older patients undergoing hemodialysis, visual distraction was more effective. Nurses are encouraged to incorporate visual distraction as a safe and non-pharmacologic technique into routine nursing care for reducing older patients’ suffering and improving their wellbeing when fistula cannulation is performed.

Objective (s): Heart failure has implications for the quality of life for any age range. The Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) is the most commonly used instrument for evaluating quality of life inpatients with heart failure. It comprises 21 items and 3 dimensions: the physical, emotional and the total. The aim of this study was to translate and evaluate the reliability and validity of the Persian language version of the (MLHFQ) for use in heart failure patients before using this version in clinical practice. Methods: After permission, the questionnaire was translated. One hundred HF patients (mean age: 59±15 years; 61% male) were interviewed between December 2013 and April 2014. Reliability was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC).Validity was tested with correlations between the MLHFQ scores and the SF-36 scores, in order to evaluate the construct validity, known-groups comparison (New York Heart Association [NYHA] Classes) was performed. Results: The internal consistency of both total and subtotal scales was greater than 0.80. Cronbach’s alpha was 0.95 for the 3 MLHFQ scores and the ICC was also large 0.8. In addition, MLHFQ scores varied significantly with functional class (P

Objective (s): To translate and evaluate the the myocardial infarction dimensional assessment scale (MIDAS), as a disease-specific quality of life scale in patients with myocardial infarction in Iran. Methods: After permission, the questionnaire was translated. Then face validity, content validity, concurrent validity and criterion validity were assessed. In order to evaluate the construct validity, known-groups comparison (patients with and without smoking) was performed. For criterion validity the Short Form 36 (SF-36) was used. Cronbachchr('39')s alpha coefficients and the test retest were used to assess the scale reliability. Results: One hundred patients with myocardial infarction participated in the study. The criterion validity showed high and significant correlation between most the MIDAS and the SF-36 scores. The Cronbach’s alpha for the scale ranged from 0.74 to 0.887 and test-retest reliability (ICC) within 2 weeks, in all dimensions was greater than 0. 90. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the MIDAS is a valid and reliable disease-specific scale and can be considered for measuring health outcomes in research and clinical settings.

Objective (s): Angina pectoris greatly affects quality of life. The aim of this study was to examine quality of life and related factors in patients with angina pectoris. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of 200 patients with angina pectoris attending a teaching hospital in Qom Iran, in 2012. The Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) was used to measure quality of life. Data were analyzed using the SPSS 16 performing descriptive statistical tests, Pearson correlation coefficient, independent t-test and ANCOVA. Results: Higher scores observed for social functioning (mean =59.0), while it was lowest for role limitation due to physical problems (mean =33.12). Female participants had lower quality of life, and these differences were statistically significant for all subscales (p

Introduction: Nursing students are encountered with a wide range of health-related problems. On the other hand, the role of spiritual intelligence as a new approach in mental health, physical health, and efficient social partnership is considered to be very important. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between spiritual intelligence and general health among nursing students within year 2012 in Tehran. Methods: This descriptive correlation study included 320 B.S. nursing students studying in different universities of Tehran that were selected through Morgan Formula. Data was collected using questionnaire for demographic data, Abdollazadeh’s spiritual intelligence questionnaire, and General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28). Data was analyzed using independent t-test, one-way ANOVA, correlation coefficient, and linear regression. Results: There was a significant positive relationship between spiritual intelligence and general health (P

Objective (s): This study aimed to investigate the quality of life in older people suffering from abuse by family members in comparison with older patients without such experiences.Methods: Using a quantitative design and a cross-sectional approach, 360 older people (180 abused and 180 non- abused older people) aged over 65 years was entered into the study. Data were collected using the Iranian version of Abbreviated Mental Test Score, the Domestic Elder Abuse Questionnaire and the Iranian version of 36-item Short form Health Survey (SF-36) via face-to-face interviews.Results: It was found that the older people who did not experience abuse from family members reported higher quality of life in comparison with the abused older people(P

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to design and determine the psychometric properties of a checklist for assessing domestic elder neglect. Methods & Materials: This study was conducted in four phases. In the first phase, the meaning of domestic elder neglect explored using the qualitative method of phenomenology. In the second phase, a checklist was created, based on the results obtained in the first phase, in conjunction with the inductions from the expert panel. In the third and fourth phases, the psychometric properties including face validity, content validity, construct validity, convergent validity, internal consistency, and Inter- rater reliability were measured. 110 elderly people participated in the this study. Results: The initial 26 item checklist designed using the results of first and second phases of study, reduced to 11 items and 2 factors including the health and care needs neglect, and neglect in providing healthy environment in the process of determining the face and content validity. Acceptable convergent validity was identified in the elder neglect checklist and care neglect scale of the domestic elder abuse questionnaire (r=0.862). The results of known groups' comparisons showed that this checklist could successfully discriminate between subgroups of elderly people in the index of re-hospitalization. The internal consistency (Kuder-Richardson Formula 20) was 0.824. Inter- rater reliability of the checklist was 0.850. Conclusion: The elder neglect checklist with 11 items appears to be a promising tool, providing reliable and valid data helping to detect neglect among elders in different settings such as clinical settings, homes and research environments by health care providers and researchers.

Objective (s): This study was performed to translate and validatie the Persian version of Critical Care Family Needs Inventory (CCFNI) assessing family needs of admitted patients in the intensive care units and to determine its validation.Methods: After translation qualitative face validity and content validity was established for the questionnaire. In order to evaluate the construct validity, known-groups comparison (nonsurgical versus surgical patients) was performed and to determine its differential validity, intensive care unit were compared with the conventional wards using independent-sample t -test. The internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha coefficients) were used to assess the scale reliability. 150 family members of patients in intensive care units and 150 patients' family members in general medical and surgical wards participated in this study.Results: Significant differences were found between surgical and nonsurgical patients' family (p=0.03) as well as the intensive care unit and conventional wards (p=0.007). There were significant positive correlations between all scale dimensions (0.684≤r≤0.439, p

Objective (s): To translate and evaluate the validity and reliability of the Seattle Angina Questionnaire, as a disease-specific quality of life scale in patients with angina pectoris.Method: After permission, the questionnaire was translated. Then face validity, content validity, concurrent validity and criterion validity were determined. In order to evaluate the construct validity, known-groups comparison (patients with and without chest symptoms) was performed and to determine its criterion validity the Short Form 36 (SF-36) was used. Cronbach's alpha coefficients and the test retest were used to assess the scale reliability. 100 patients with angina pectoris participated in this study. Results: The criterion validity showed high and significant correlation between most SAQ and SF-36 scores. Cronbach’s alpha of the total scale was 0.85 and test-retest reliability (ICC) within 2 weeks, in all dimensions was greater than 0. 90. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the SAQ is a valid and reliable disease-specific scale and can be considered for measuring health outcomes in research and clinical settings.

Objective: To determine the psychometric properties of an Iranian version of the Palmore's Questionnaire called Facts on Aging Quiz (FAQI).Methods: The psychometric properties including face validity, content validity, construct validity, internal consistency, and test- retest reliability were measured in 280 nurses who were working in the emergency, medical, and surgical wards of 5 randomly selected general hospitals associated with medical schools in Tehran.Results: The results of known groups' comparisons showed that this questionnaire could successfully discriminate between subgroups of nurses with different prior work experiences with the elderly and/ or had the experience of living with older people in the family. The internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha) was 0.81. Test-retest reliability (ICC) of the questionnaire with interval time of two weeks was 0.98(P

Introduction: Community health nursing education in filed is one of the main courses of Iranian nursing education curriculum however, little scientific attention has been paid to the evaluation of community health nursing process so far. Therefore, the present study was conducted to explore nursing students' comprehension of community health nursing in field education. Methods: A qualitative study was employed using content analysis approach with 19 bachelor degree nursing students. Data were gathered through unstructured interview technique. Results: The data analysis resulted in emerging 2 main categories as ‘suitable learning aspects for students’and ‘learning inhibitor aspects’. The participants mentioned the education in filed with its specific conditions as a way to personality development, employing theory in practice, in-depth learning, learning from various human resources, and achieving skill to teach patients. Inhibitor aspects were related to ineffective clinical instructors, inefficiency of management of training, and theory-practice gap. Conclusion: Clinical education of nursing students should cover active learning and personal/professional growth.It also should be compatible with community requirements. The study participants pointed out to factors which nursing education policy makers and nursing faculties should pay attention to in order to improve the quality of training community health nursing in filed.

Introduction. New methods of teaching in nursing education has not been extensively investigated in Iran. Considering the importance of nursing education promotion and successful application of new methods of teaching, especially focus group method, this study was conducted to determine and compare the effect of lecture, and focus group teaching methods on nursing students' learning in community health course (1) at Shahed University in the year 2002-2003. Methods. A semi-experimental study was conducted on 49 nursing students who had community health course (through census sampling method). After matching the variables of sex, gender, mean grade of previous semester and the use of students' dormitory, 24 students were selected for focus group and 25 students for lecture group, randomly. A teacher taught them using the two methods, during the morning for one hour, 45 minutes, and for 16 sessions. The data colleting tool was a demographic data sheet and community health test in the form of multiple choice questions. Both groups took the pretest and demographic data sheet at the first day of the course and post-test at the last day. The data were analyzed by SPSS 9.5 using frequency distribution, mean, standard deviation, Mann Whitney and Sign test. Results. The learning rate increased significantly in both focus group method and lecture method groups. But, in the group taught by focus group method, the learning rate was significantly higher than lecture group method. The mean grade of previous semester in lecture method group showed a positive moderate correlation with their learning rate. Conclusion. Considering the role of focus group method in making the students active in learning, developing their social skills and improving their communication skills, it can replace lecture teaching method. It is suggested that teachers and educational planners apply this method in students' education. More studies are recommended to investigate the weaknesses and strengths of this method.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to describe and explain older adults' perspectives on the experience of their hospitalization. Methods & Materials: This qualitative research adopted a content analysis approach. Twenty seven participants (65-81 years) selected through a purposel sampling from three university hospitals in Tehran went through open in depth interviews. All the interviwes were taped, then transcribed verbatim and undertook content analysis using the method described by Kvale. Results: Six main contributing categories were emerged: Access to basic resources, participation in the process of care, empathy, respect and dignity, providing information, inducing hope and optimism Conclusion: These findings may help professionals to better understand the problems concerning the experience of hospitalization, to identify factors which decrease the stresses arising from the hospitalization and to find the ways to smooth the impact of the situation on the older people. The findings also emphasized the necessity of designing and implementing the nursing trainings in a way to better responds to the needs of elderly.