Positivism Video: This video will explain positivism, which is a theory of knowledge that emphasizes observable phenomena and facts.

Watch Positivism, verification and falsifiability videos.
Review Walker and Avant concept analysis video.
Submit your definitions showing understanding of positivism, verification and falsifiability.
you can submit them in a word document.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!


Step 1: Watch the Required Videos

Before diving into writing your definitions, make sure you watch the following videos to get a solid grasp of the concepts:

  • Positivism Video: This video will explain positivism, which is a theory of knowledge that emphasizes observable phenomena and facts. It argues that knowledge should be derived from sensory experience and that any statement not verifiable by observation is not meaningful.
  • Verification and Falsifiability Video: Watch this video to understand how verification refers to the process of checking if a theory or statement can be supported by empirical evidence, while falsifiability emphasizes that for a theory to be scientific, it must be able to be proven false through experiments or observations.
  • Walker and Avant Concept Analysis Video: This video introduces the Walker and Avant model of concept analysis, which helps you define and clarify terms by breaking them down into essential characteristics.

Step 2: Take Notes

As you watch each video, take detailed notes. Focus on:

  • Key points and definitions of positivism, verification, and falsifiability.
  • Examples or case studies discussed that illustrate how these concepts apply in various fields, particularly in research and scientific practices.
  • Any essential frameworks or steps mentioned in the Walker and Avant concept analysis process.

Step 3: Define the Key Concepts

Based on the videos, write clear, concise definitions for each of the three terms: positivism, verification, and falsifiability.

Here’s a guide on what to include for each:

  • Positivism:
    • Definition: Positivism is the belief that knowledge should be derived from empirical, observable evidence and that scientific methods are the most valid way to gain knowledge about the world. It rejects metaphysical or unobservable claims.
    • Key features: Empirical data, scientific method, observable phenomena, rejection of untestable ideas.
  • Verification:
    • Definition: Verification is the process by which a hypothesis or theory is tested and confirmed through empirical evidence. A statement or theory is only meaningful if it can be verified through observation or experience.
    • Key features: Empirical testing, observational confirmation, factual support.
  • Falsifiability:
    • Definition: Falsifiability refers to the principle that for a theory to be scientifically valid, it must be able to be proven false through experimentation or observation. A theory that cannot be falsified is considered unscientific.
    • Key features: Ability to be disproven, scientific theories, testing via experiments or observations.

Step 4: Draft and Organize the Document

  • Title: Create an appropriate title for the document, such as “Understanding Positivism, Verification, and Falsifiability.”
  • Introduction: Briefly introduce the importance of these concepts in scientific inquiry and research.
  • Main Body: Provide the definitions for each term. Make sure each concept is well-explained and concise.
  • Conclusion: Wrap up by reflecting on the relevance of these concepts in scientific research and real-world applications.

Step 5: Review and Submit

After drafting your document, read through it to ensure clarity and precision. Make sure your definitions are correct and that you’ve followed the assignment’s instructions. Once you’re satisfied, save the document as a Word file and submit it as instructed.

Nursing Care Approaches: Evidence-based Practice vs Tradition in Specialty Units

What is your opinion about the following statement? Be specific, descriptive, and succinct. Support your viewpoint with current literature. Respond to the initial post with APA references included, no older than 5 years. Respond to two peers.
Your family member requires advanced nursing care in a specialty unit. Would you want the nursing care to be based on evidence, tradition, trial and error, clinical judgement or a combination of approaches?

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!


Guide to Structuring Your Paper Based on the Assignment Instructions

  1. Understand the Assignment Prompt:
    Start by carefully reading the assignment. Make sure you understand the key components. The question asks you to form an opinion about the best approach to nursing care for a family member in a specialty unit, and to support that viewpoint using current literature.
  2. Begin with Your Opinion:
    In your response, make it clear where you stand: Do you prefer evidence-based practice, tradition, trial and error, clinical judgement, or a combination of these approaches for nursing care? State your opinion directly in the introduction.
  3. Support Your Opinion with Literature:
    After stating your opinion, you need to support it with credible, up-to-date sources. Look for recent articles and studies that discuss the effectiveness of evidence-based practice in nursing. Ensure your sources are no older than 5 years to keep your paper current.
  4. Use APA Citations:
    As you reference literature, make sure to use proper APA in-text citations. For example: (Author, Year). At the end of the paper, include a reference list formatted in APA style.
  5. Structure Your Response:
    • Introduction: Briefly introduce the topic, state your opinion, and indicate that you will support it with research.
    • Body Paragraphs:
      • Paragraph 1: Discuss the advantages of evidence-based practice for nursing care, citing recent studies or guidelines.
      • Paragraph 2: Address why you may or may not consider other approaches, such as clinical judgement or tradition. Be sure to support your arguments with research.
    • Conclusion: Sum up your viewpoint and briefly restate why the approach you favor is best, referencing your sources once more.
  6. Respond to Two Peers:
    After posting your initial response, engage with at least two of your peers. Respond thoughtfully to their viewpoints, supporting your arguments with evidence. Be respectful and professional in your tone, demonstrating that you’ve read and considered their posts carefully.
  7. Proofread and Edit:
    Once you have finished writing, proofread your work. Check for grammatical errors, proper citation formatting, and ensure clarity in your arguments. Make sure your paper is easy to read and logically flows from one section to the next.

Identifying Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed-Design Research Processes in Addressing Workplace or Clinical Problems

Objectives
Identify qualitative and quantitative research processes
Deliverables
Write a 2-3 page (not including the title and reference pages)
APA 7 formatted paper with an introduction and conclusion
APA 7 headings for each section of the paper
At least (2) research sources, including 1 source from a periodical database that is most relevant, accurate, recent (less than 5 years old), and reliable.
Step 1: Research
Find qualitative, quantitative, and mixed (both quantitative and qualitative) research sources.
You can base your research idea on your Capstone Project; however, you may not self-plagiarize your previous work.
Step 2: Consider
Compare and contrast qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-design research characteristics.
Identify a problem in your place of work or at a clinical site
What type of research listed above would you conduct to address this problem?
Why or why not?
Step 3: Write
Write a paper that addresses the questions above.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Introduction

Research is essential for making informed decisions, solving problems, and contributing to the advancement of knowledge. In research design, three primary approaches are used: qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-design research. These approaches differ in their methods of data collection, analysis, and interpretation, and each is appropriate for different types of research questions. This paper will explore the key characteristics of each research process and apply them to a problem in a clinical or workplace setting. By analyzing these research designs, I will determine which design is most appropriate for addressing the identified problem.


Qualitative Research Process

Qualitative research is used to explore complex phenomena and gain a deeper understanding of human behavior, experiences, and perspectives. This type of research typically focuses on non-numerical data, such as interviews, focus groups, observations, and textual analysis. Qualitative research aims to identify patterns, themes, and insights from the data, rather than generalizing findings to a broader population. Common methods used in qualitative research include phenomenology, ethnography, grounded theory, and case studies.

Key Characteristics:

  • Focuses on understanding meanings, experiences, and concepts.
  • Data collection methods include interviews, focus groups, observations, and open-ended surveys.
  • Data is analyzed through thematic analysis or content analysis.
  • The findings are typically rich, detailed, and context-specific.

Qualitative research is especially useful when the goal is to understand the “why” or “how” behind certain behaviors or phenomena, such as the experiences of patients or employees.


Quantitative Research Process

Quantitative research, in contrast, is designed to measure and quantify variables. It involves collecting numerical data and applying statistical analysis to test hypotheses or examine relationships between variables. This type of research is often used to determine the extent, frequency, or magnitude of a phenomenon and is typically used for larger sample sizes where generalizability is important.

Key Characteristics:

  • Involves numerical data and statistical analysis.
  • Methods include surveys with closed-ended questions, experiments, or longitudinal studies.
  • Aims to test hypotheses or relationships between variables.
  • The findings are generalizable to a broader population, given that the sample is representative.

Quantitative research is effective for investigating relationships between variables, testing theories, and identifying statistical patterns or trends within large populations.


Mixed-Design Research Process

Mixed-design research combines both qualitative and quantitative methods, taking advantage of the strengths of each approach. This approach allows researchers to explore a topic in-depth while also quantifying relationships between variables. Mixed-methods research typically involves collecting both numerical data (quantitative) and descriptive data (qualitative) and then analyzing them separately or in combination to provide a fuller understanding of the research problem.

Key Characteristics:

  • Incorporates both qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis.
  • Often used in complex studies where both numerical data and in-depth insights are required.
  • The qualitative data can explain or provide context for the quantitative findings, and vice versa.
  • Mixed-design studies are often more time-consuming but provide richer and more nuanced insights.

Mixed-methods research is particularly valuable when the researcher needs to address a complex problem from multiple perspectives, allowing for both broad statistical insights and detailed personal or contextual understanding.


Application to a Clinical or Workplace Problem

To apply these research methods, I will consider a problem commonly found in clinical settings: patient satisfaction with healthcare services. If patient satisfaction is low, the research design would depend on the type of information needed to address the issue.

  • Qualitative Approach:
    Qualitative research would allow healthcare providers to understand the experiences of patients by conducting interviews or focus groups. This approach would provide detailed insights into the specific aspects of care that patients find unsatisfactory, such as communication with healthcare providers, wait times, or the physical environment.
  • Quantitative Approach:
    A quantitative approach could involve using surveys to measure patient satisfaction levels across a larger sample of patients. By gathering numerical data, healthcare providers could identify trends or specific areas where satisfaction is particularly low. Statistical analysis could reveal if there are significant differences in satisfaction based on patient demographics, such as age, gender, or type of treatment received.
  • Mixed-Design Approach:
    A mixed-design approach would be ideal if both the numerical scale of satisfaction and the personal experiences of patients need to be understood. For example, quantitative data from surveys could provide an overall satisfaction score, while qualitative interviews could explore specific reasons behind patient satisfaction or dissatisfaction. This combination would offer both breadth and depth, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the issue.

Conclusion

In conclusion, qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-design research processes each offer distinct advantages depending on the nature of the research question. Qualitative research excels at providing in-depth understanding of personal experiences, quantitative research offers measurable and generalizable data, and mixed-design research combines both approaches to offer a more comprehensive view. For problems like patient satisfaction in a clinical setting, a mixed-design approach would likely provide the most useful insights, as it would allow for both generalizable data and a deeper exploration of patient experiences. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each research method is crucial for selecting the most appropriate approach to address specific problems in the workplace or clinical settings.


References

  1. Author, A. A. (Year). Title of article. Journal Name, Volume(Issue), page range.
  2. Author, B. B. (Year). Title of book. Publisher.
  3. Author, C. C. (Year). Title of article. Journal Name, Volume(Issue), page range.

This outline includes APA 7 formatting and references to sources, ensuring your work adheres to academic standards. Adjust the sources and text accordingly based on your research findings.

Creating Your Poster and Critical Commentary

Make a poster and critical commentary . Write about the patient case study and history and assessment , clinical data , guidelines about his treatment ، key theoretical concepts, engaging the patient in care , symptom recognition , and education. Follow the assessment rubric and attached examples of poster and critical commentary.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!


Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Poster and Critical Commentary:

  1. Choose Your Patient Case Study:
    • Select a patient case study that you will focus on for this assignment. This could be a fictional or real case, but you’ll need to ensure it provides enough detail for your clinical data, history, and assessment.
    • Some common areas for patient case studies include chronic conditions, acute illnesses, mental health disorders, or pediatric cases.
  2. Gather Information for the Case Study:
    • Patient History and Assessment:
      • Collect relevant details about the patient’s history, including their age, gender, family history, lifestyle factors, and any pre-existing conditions.
      • Summarize their presenting symptoms, how long they’ve had them, and any treatments they’ve tried.
      • Conduct a thorough assessment (e.g., physical exam, tests, and diagnostic findings) to determine the condition.
    • Clinical Data:
      • Include any clinical data related to the case. This could include lab results, imaging findings, vital signs, or medical history relevant to the condition.
    • Guidelines About Treatment:
      • Research the latest clinical guidelines for managing the patient’s condition. Make sure to reference guidelines from trusted sources like the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), World Health Organization (WHO), or other evidence-based medical sources.
  3. Create the Poster:
    • The poster should be visually engaging and informative. Here’s a suggested layout:

    Title:

    • The title should clearly reflect the patient’s condition. For example, “Management and Care of a Patient with Hypertension” or “Critical Care in Diabetes Management.”

    1. Patient History & Assessment:

    • Summarize the patient’s relevant history and current health status.
    • Provide an overview of symptoms and assessment findings. You can use bullet points for clarity.

    2. Clinical Data:

    • Display important clinical data in an easy-to-read format. Use tables or charts for lab results, imaging findings, or vital signs.

    3. Guidelines for Treatment:

    • Present evidence-based guidelines for managing the patient’s condition. This section should include recommended treatment options, monitoring strategies, and any lifestyle changes the patient should follow.

    4. Key Theoretical Concepts:

    • Highlight key theoretical concepts that relate to the patient’s condition. These could include concepts related to pathophysiology, nursing theories, or psychological frameworks for managing the patient’s illness.

    5. Engaging the Patient in Care:

    • Provide information on how the patient can be involved in their care. Discuss strategies for building a therapeutic relationship, involving the patient in decision-making, and encouraging adherence to the treatment plan.

    6. Symptom Recognition and Education:

    • Outline key symptoms the patient should be aware of (e.g., worsening symptoms, side effects).
    • Include education points for the patient to help them recognize potential complications or when to seek help.

    7. References:

    • Include citations for all sources used in your poster (e.g., guidelines, research articles).
  4. Write the Critical Commentary:
    • Introduction:
      • Provide a brief overview of the patient case study and the importance of your treatment plan.
    • Assessment and Treatment Plan:
      • Critically analyze the patient’s history and clinical data. Discuss how the assessment guided the treatment decisions.
    • Theoretical Concepts and Evidence:
      • Discuss the theoretical concepts and guidelines that informed your treatment plan. How do these align with current evidence and best practices?
    • Engagement in Care:
      • Reflect on the importance of engaging the patient in their own care. How did you ensure the patient understood their condition and treatment plan?
    • Symptom Recognition and Education:
      • Critically evaluate the importance of educating the patient. How did you address potential barriers to learning and ensure that the patient was able to recognize symptoms and follow the treatment plan?
    • Conclusion:
      • Summarize the key points from your commentary and reflect on the potential challenges in the case.
  5. Final Review:
    • Review the poster for clarity, visual appeal, and accuracy. Ensure that all information is well-organized and easy to understand.
    • Check that the critical commentary is cohesive, well-written, and provides a critical analysis of the case.
    • Ensure your work follows the rubric requirements and formatting guidelines provided by your instructor.

By following these steps, you will create a comprehensive and well-rounded poster and critical commentary that demonstrate your ability to assess and manage a patient’s care. Best of luck!

Creating Your Healthcare Policy Poster

Select a healthcare policy of interest to the nursing profession and public health.
Develop a poster addressing the legal/ethical, economic, and political impact and implications of this policy/legislation.
Information should be evidence-based and supported by recent references (no more than five years old). See the Rubric under course documents.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!


Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Healthcare Policy Poster:

  1. Choose a Healthcare Policy:
    • The first step is to select a healthcare policy or legislation that is relevant to the nursing profession and public health. Consider policies that directly impact patient care, healthcare access, nursing practice, or public health outcomes.
    • Examples of policies to consider might include:
      • The Affordable Care Act (ACA) and its impact on healthcare access.
      • Nurse practitioner autonomy legislation.
      • Policies addressing mental health services.
      • Vaccination mandates and public health campaigns.
      • Policies related to health insurance coverage or Medicare/Medicaid.
  2. Research Your Chosen Policy:
    • Once you’ve selected a policy, gather recent, evidence-based information that will help you address its legal/ethical, economic, and political impact. Use reputable sources such as peer-reviewed journal articles, government websites (.gov), or educational institutions (.edu).
    • Make sure your sources are no more than five years old, as this ensures the relevance of the information.
  3. Create Your Poster:
    • Your poster should be clear, visually engaging, and informative. Here’s a suggested structure:

    Title:

    • The title should reflect the healthcare policy you are addressing. For example, “Impact of the Affordable Care Act on Nursing and Public Health.”

    1. Legal/Ethical Impact:

    • Discuss the legal implications of the policy on healthcare providers, especially nurses, and public health.
    • Address any ethical dilemmas or concerns that the policy raises. For example, how does the policy affect patient rights or healthcare access?
    • Include references to relevant legal cases, regulations, or ethical standards.

    2. Economic Impact:

    • Explain how the policy affects the economics of healthcare, both from the perspective of nursing professionals and public health.
    • Does the policy reduce costs, increase efficiency, or place a financial burden on healthcare systems?
    • Include statistics or findings from recent studies or reports to support your argument.

    3. Political Impact:

    • Analyze the political implications of the policy. What was the political process behind its creation or implementation?
    • How does the policy influence political discussions around healthcare reform?
    • Mention the political stakeholders involved (e.g., government agencies, advocacy groups) and the policy’s impact on their agenda.
  4. Design the Poster:
    • Ensure your poster is visually appealing. Use bullet points, concise text, and images/graphs that support your message.
    • Keep the design simple and professional, with a good balance between text and visuals.
    • Incorporate the following sections on the poster:
      • Title
      • Legal/Ethical Impact (briefly listed with supporting evidence)
      • Economic Impact (briefly listed with supporting evidence)
      • Political Impact (briefly listed with supporting evidence)
      • References (ensure recent references are included)
  5. Final Review and Formatting:
    • Review the poster for clarity, coherence, and correct information.
    • Check that all text is readable and the design is clean (consider font size, spacing, and color choices).
    • Ensure all sources are cited properly and meet the course requirements.
    • Ensure the poster follows any size requirements and formatting guidelines provided in the rubric.
  6. Prepare Your Submission:
    • Once the poster is finalized, save it in an acceptable file format (PDF, JPEG, etc.).
    • Ensure your references are listed in a proper citation format (APA, MLA, etc.), as required by the course.

By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to create an informative and professional poster that clearly addresses the legal/ethical, economic, and political impact of a healthcare policy. Good luck!

Critiquing the Theory of Self-Efficacy:

Using the criteria presented in week 2, critique the theory of Self-Efficacy using the internal and external criticism evaluation process. Please include 400 in your initial post with two schoolary articles by wedneaday midnight and 200 word in two answers to your peers.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!


Step-by-Step Guide to Critiquing the Theory of Self-Efficacy:

  1. Understand the Assignment Requirements:
    • The task asks you to critique the theory of Self-Efficacy using the internal and external criticism evaluation process, as presented in week 2.
    • You are also asked to provide two scholarly articles by Wednesday midnight and respond to two peers in 200 words each.
    • Make sure your initial post is a minimum of 400 words and thoroughly critiques the theory.
  2. Review the Theory of Self-Efficacy:
    • Self-Efficacy, developed by psychologist Albert Bandura, is the belief in one’s ability to accomplish specific tasks. It plays a critical role in determining how people approach goals, tasks, and challenges.
    • In your critique, you’ll need to focus on both the strengths and limitations of this theory.
  3. Internal Criticism:
    • Internal criticism evaluates the internal consistency and logical structure of the theory.
    • You’ll want to address the following:
      • Is the theory logically sound?
      • Are its concepts clearly defined and interconnected?
      • Does the theory maintain internal consistency when applied to different scenarios?
    • For Self-Efficacy, discuss its core elements (mastery experiences, vicarious experiences, social persuasion, and physiological states) and evaluate how well these elements align within the theory.
  4. External Criticism:
    • External criticism focuses on the real-world applicability of the theory. This involves evaluating its empirical support and relevance in practical settings.
    • Consider the following:
      • Does the theory have empirical support from research studies?
      • How applicable is it in real-world settings like education, healthcare, or workplace environments?
      • Are there any criticisms from other psychological theories or disciplines?
    • You might want to discuss how well Self-Efficacy has been tested and how widely it has been applied in different areas.
  5. Provide Scholarly Articles:
    • As part of the assignment, you’ll need to find two scholarly articles related to Self-Efficacy.
    • Look for peer-reviewed articles from journals, particularly those published on .edu or .gov sites.
    • Use these articles to support your critique, referencing studies that support or challenge the theory of Self-Efficacy.
  6. Write Your Initial Post:
    • Structure your post clearly with an introduction, critique (internal and external), and conclusion.
      • Introduction: Briefly introduce Self-Efficacy and its importance in psychology.
      • Internal Criticism: Evaluate the internal consistency of the theory.
      • External Criticism: Assess the theory’s real-world applicability and empirical support.
      • Conclusion: Summarize your critique, identifying key strengths and weaknesses of the theory.
  7. Write Responses to Peers:
    • Once you have posted your critique, read and respond to two of your peers’ posts.
    • In each response, provide thoughtful feedback. You can agree or disagree with their points, but make sure you explain your reasoning clearly.
    • Each response should be a minimum of 200 words.
  8. Final Review:
    • After completing your critique, review it for clarity, logical flow, and any grammatical errors.
    • Ensure your citations and references are properly formatted.
    • Double-check that your word count meets the requirements (400 words for the initial post, 200 words for each response).

Creating a Flowchart to Demonstrate the Process of How a Bill Becomes a Law in the Medical Field

Module 01 Content
Overview
As a healthcare professional, you are tasked with making sure you exhibit the morals and standards set forth by your profession daily. It is important that healthcare professionals understand basic terminology as it relates to law and ethics. Laws in the medical field are the building blocks to making sure healthcare professionals are adhering to the rules and regulations set forth by the profession.
Instructions
For this assessment, you are to create a flowchart that demonstrates the steps of how a bill becomes a law in the medical field.
There should be a minimum of 10 steps in the flowchart.
You may find as you are creating your flowchart that additional information is necessary for a specific step. If so, please use bullet points to explain that information.
Use a Microsoft Word document to create the flowchart.
There are many templates to choose from under the “SmartArt” tab in Word.
The document needs to be neat and organized.
Any outside sources must be cited using APA format..
Additional Resources
How do you make flowcharts using Microsoft Office?
Medical Terminology Guide
APA support
Grammarly

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!


Step-by-Step Guide for Creating a Flowchart on How a Bill Becomes a Law in the Medical Field

1. Understand the Assignment

  • Your task is to create a flowchart that illustrates the steps of how a bill becomes a law in the medical field. You need to include at least 10 steps, ensuring the flowchart is clear, organized, and visually appealing.

2. Research the Process

  • Familiarize yourself with the legislative process. While it’s generally the same for all types of bills, bills that pertain to the medical field may have additional considerations, such as healthcare regulations, medical ethics, and patient rights.

3. Identify the Key Steps

  • Start by listing the steps involved in how a bill becomes law in the medical field. Here’s a simple breakdown:
    1. Introduction of the Bill: A member of Congress introduces the bill.
    2. Referral to Committee: The bill is sent to a relevant committee that specializes in healthcare.
    3. Committee Review: The committee reviews, revises, and debates the bill.
    4. Committee Vote: The committee votes on whether to pass the bill.
    5. Floor Debate: If the bill passes the committee, it’s debated by the full legislative body (House or Senate).
    6. Vote in Legislative Body: After debate, the full body votes on the bill.
    7. Sent to the Other Chamber: The bill is sent to the other legislative chamber (if it started in the House, it moves to the Senate and vice versa).
    8. Committee Review in the Other Chamber: The bill undergoes a similar review process in the second chamber.
    9. Vote in the Other Chamber: The second chamber votes on the bill.
    10. Reconciliation of Differences: If there are differences between the two chambers, a conference committee resolves them.
    11. Final Vote: Both chambers vote on the final version of the bill.
    12. Presidential Approval: The bill is sent to the president to be signed into law or vetoed.
    13. Law Takes Effect: If signed, the bill becomes law and takes effect.

4. Use Microsoft Word to Create Your Flowchart

  • Open Microsoft Word and navigate to the “SmartArt” tab to select a flowchart template.
  • Choose a template that fits the number of steps you need. A simple flowchart design should work well for this.
  • Add each of the 10+ steps in the appropriate boxes, ensuring they flow logically from one to the next.

5. Add Additional Information Where Needed

  • For each step, if you think more detail is required, use bullet points underneath the step to explain additional information. For example, under “Referral to Committee,” you might add:
    • Bills are sent to the committee based on the area of healthcare they pertain to (e.g., mental health, public health, insurance).
    • Committee members may conduct hearings, review expert testimony, and gather public input.

6. Ensure the Flowchart is Neat and Organized

  • Make sure your flowchart is easy to follow. Avoid overcrowding the diagram with too much text. Use bullet points sparingly.
  • Organize the flowchart so it’s clear which step follows another, and ensure there is enough space between each step.

7. Add APA Citations

  • If you use any external sources or references for your research (e.g., websites, textbooks), make sure to cite them in APA format at the end of your document.
  • You can use resources like the APA Citation Guide to help format these correctly.

8. Final Check

  • Review your flowchart to ensure it has at least 10 steps.
  • Double-check that the flowchart is visually appealing, clear, and easy to understand.
  • Make sure your sources are properly cited using APA format.

Critiquing Mobile Health Apps for Clinical Practice: A Comprehensive Guide

Hi, I was born in April I already downloaded the app, it is medscape.
PurposeThe purposes of this assignment are to: (a) demonstrate nursing informatics skills to critique commonly used mobile applications, (b) synthesize nursing and non-nursing knowledge using a guided appraisal process, and (c) develop NI skills with computer technologies to support professional and personal development with implementation of medical applications in clinical practice.
Mobile Health, also known as mHealth, is defined as the use of wireless communication to support efficiency in public health and clinical practice. To facilitate mHealth, mobile applications (apps) have been developed, which can be executed either on a mobile platform or on a web-based platform which is executed on a server. Mobile medical apps are often accessories to a FDA-regulated medical device. Incumbent upon each healthcare provider is a clear understanding of the implications of this guidance on clinical practice as well as demonstrate discretion with regard to medical app implementation.
Course OutcomesThis assignment enables the student to meet the following course outcomes:
CO 2: Demonstrate synthesis of nursing and non-nursing science with information and computer technologies through collaborative advanced nursing practice (PO 5)
CO 4: Exemplify professional values and scholarship to support professional and personal development (PO 1)
Due DateThis assignment is due no later than the Sunday of Week 6 by 11:59 PM MT. Students are expected to submit assignments by the time they are due. Assignments submitted after the due date and time will receive a deduction of 10% of the total points possible for that assignment for each day the assignment is late. Assignments will be accepted, with penalty as described, up to a maximum of three days late, after which point a zero will be recorded for the assignment.
Total Points PossibleThis assignment is worth 200 points.
Preparation and Paper Outline:1. PART 1: The medical application selection for this assignment is contingent upon the month of your birthday. Use the table below to identify the Medical App for this assignment.
Your Birth MonthMedical App for Assignment
January, FebruaryMDCalc
March, April, MayMedscape
June, July, AugustThe Chief Complaint
September, OctoberPocket Pharmacist(PocketRx)
November, DecemberSingleCare
Use the Google Play Store for Android devices or the Apple iTunes App Store for Apple devices to search for the medical application as determined by the table above.
In order to complete the following guided appraisal, download the app to a mobile device (smartphone or tablet). The apps are free and do not require purchase to complete this assignment.
Provide proof of download by attaching a screenshot of the device screen in JPEG or PDF format to the assignment upload tab (in addition to submitting this assignment). Following the general instructions below for smartphone devices (specific device instructions may vary):Android 4.0 and Newer: (Galaxy SIII, Galaxy S 4, Galaxy Note, HTC One, Nexus phones, Droid phones)
Any Android phone running Ice Cream Sandwich (4.0) or later can easily take a screenshot. Hold the Power and Volume Down buttons together until the screen flashes and you hear the shutter sound. The screenshot image will appear in your Gallery app, usually inside the Screenshots folder
iPhone
The method for taking a screenshot in iOS has been the same since version 2.0. Hold the Power (Sleep/Wake) and Home buttons together until the screen flashes and you hear the shutter sound. The screenshot image will appear in your Photos app under Camera Roll.
2. PART 2: Answer the Medical App Critical Appraisal questions thoughtfully and comprehensively. Use the criteria headings on this outline as the headings on your properly APA- formatted paper.
NAME: What is the name of the app?
AUTHOR: Who created, developed, or maintains the app? Explain.
ENDORSEMENT: Is the app licensed by the Food and Drug Administration, other government agency, or endorsed by an academic institution or medical professional organization? Explain.
OPERATION: Which platform (mobile or web-based) is suitable for the app and why?
AESTHETICS: Is the information displayed in a way that is easy to navigate? Is it easy to use? Can you use it without instructions? Explain.
PURPOSE: What is the intended purpose or use of the app?
CLINICAL DECISION MAKING: What influence does the app have on clinical decision making? Explain.
SAFETY: Is there potential for patient harm? Explain.
PRIVACY/SECURITY: Does the app have privacy statement or setting? Is there a clear privacy policy stating information will be encrypted and not shared with third parties? Does the app share information on social networks? Are users notified in the event of a breach of privacy and health information? Explain.
USER: For whom is the app intended (providers, patients, or others)? Explain.
DISTRIBUTION: Is it designed for local use or wider distribution? Explain.
CREDIBILITY: How credible are the sources of information? How do you know? Explain.
RELEVANCE: How current is the information in the app? When was the last update? Is the content consistent with evidence-based literature or best practices/standards of care? Explain.
3. PART 3: Provide one example of an appropriate patient or clinical scenario for this app. The example should include the following details:
Patient Age-population (Pediatric, Adult, Geriatric)
Clinical Setting (Hospital, Private Practice, Extended Living Facility)
History of Present Illness and Diagnosis or Condition
Provide a detailed description of the app in your example. When will the app be implemented (at the Point-of-care or elsewhere)? Who will use the app? What potential impact will it have on the scenario? Incorporate the critical appraisal information from Part 2. Provide one evidence-based scholarly article as a reference to support clinical decision-making.
4. This assignment will be graded on the quality of the information, inclusion of one evidence-based scholarly resource, use of citations, use of Standard English grammar, and organization based on the required components (see the paper headings and content details in Part 1).
5. The length of the paper is to be between 1,000 and 1,500 words, excluding title page and reference list.
6. Create this assignment using Microsoft (MS) Word. You can tell that the document is saved as a MS Word document because it will end in “.docx.”
7. APA format is required in this assignment, explicitly for in-text citations and the reference list. Use 12-point Times New Roman font with 1-inch margins and double spacing. See the APA manual for details regarding proper citation. See resources under Course Resources, “Guidelines for Writing Professional Papers” for further clarification.
* Scholarly Sources: Only scholarly sources are acceptable for citation and reference in this course. These include peer-reviewed publications, government reports, or sources written by a professional or scholar in the field. The textbooks and lessons are NOT considered to be outside scholarly sources. For the threaded discussions and reflection posts, reputable internet sources such as websites by government agencies (URL ends in .gov) and respected organizations (often ends in .org) can be counted as scholarly sources. The best outside scholarly source to use is a peer-reviewed nursing journal.  You are encouraged to use the Chamberlain library and search one of the available databases for a peer-reviewed journal article.  The following sources should not be used: Wikipedia, Wikis, or blogs.  These websites are not considered scholarly as anyone can add to these. Please be aware that .com websites can vary in scholarship and quality.  For example, the American Heart Association is a .com site with scholarship and quality.  It is the responsibility of the student to determine the scholarship and quality of any .com site.  Ask your instructor before using any site if you are unsure. Points will be deducted from the rubric if the site does not demonstrate scholarship or quality. Current outside scholarly sources must be published with the last 5 years.  Instructor permission must be obtained BEFORE the assignment is due if using a source that is older than 5 years.
Rubric
NR599_Week 6 Medical Application Critical Appraisal
NR599_Week 6 Medical Application Critical Appraisal
CriteriaRatingsPts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeCriterion 1 PART 1: Medical Application Selection, Download, and Proof of DownloadMust demonstrate the following elements:
Student identified the medical application according to the table provided in the guidelines for the assignment
Downloaded the app to an appropriate mobile device
Provided clear proof of download
Screenshot of the device screen in JPEG or PDF format
(4 Required Elements)
30 ptsExcellent
Demonstrated all elements for Criterion
27 ptsV.Good
Missing 1 element for Criterion
25 ptsSatisfactory
Missing 2 elements for Criterion
15 ptsNeeds Improvement
Missing 3 elements for this Criterion Or Student selected the incorrect medical application according to the table provided in the guidelines for the assignment;
0 ptsUnsatisfactory
Missing 4 elements for the Criterion Or No assignment
30 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeCriterion 2 PART 2 Critical Appraisal, Scholarliness and Scholarly SourcesMust demonstrate the following elements:
Answered 13 out of 13 questions in PART 2 of the critical appraisal
Student demonstrated use of scholarly inquiry
Responses to guided appraisal questions were comprehensive, detailed, and specific
Demonstrated understanding of the intended use of the medical application
Conducted critical appraisal using a systematic approach
Incorporated at least one EBP scholarly source
(6 Required Elements)
80 ptsExcellent
Demonstrated all elements for Criterion
73 ptsV.Good
Did NOT address 1 question in PART 2 of the critical appraisal; Or Missing 1 element for the Criterion
66 ptsSatisfactory
Did NOT address 2 questions in PART 2 of the critical appraisal Or Missing 2 elements for the Criterion
40 ptsNeeds Improvement
Did NOT address 3 or more questions in PART 2 of the critical appraisal Or Missing 3 elements for the Criterion Or No Scholarly Sources
0 ptsUnsatisfactory
Missing 4 or more elements for the Criterion Or No assignment
80 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeCriterion 3 PART 3: Application of Knowledge and Clinical ImplementationMust demonstrate the following elements:
Constructed a clinical scenario which included all of the following: Patient Age-population (Pediatric, Adult, Geriatric),Clinical Setting (Hospital, Private Practice, Extended Living Facility), History of Present Illness and Diagnosis or Condition
Provided a detailed description of the app used in the scenario
Incorporated the critical appraisal information in the scenario
Demonstrated synthesis of knowledge and critical reasoning skills relevant to the clinical role of an advanced practice nurse
(4 Required Elements)
60 ptsExcellent
Demonstrates all elements for the Criterion
55 ptsV.Good
Missing 1 element for the Criterion
50 ptsSatisfactory
Missing 2 elements for the Criterion
30 ptsNeeds Improvement
Missing 3 elements for the Criterion
0 ptsMissing 4 elements for the Criterion Or No assignment
60 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeFormat Criterion 1 Grammar, Spelling, Syntax, APA Format, and Word RequirementsNOTE: Failure to comply with the word requirements for this assignment will result in the grade of zero (0) for this Criterion.
30 ptsExcellent
Grammar, spelling, syntax and/or APA format are accurate, or with zero to one error.
27 ptsV.Good
Two to three errors in grammar, spelling, syntax and/or APA format.
25 ptsAverage
Four to five errors in grammar, spelling, syntax and/or APA format.
15 ptsNeeds Improvement
Six or seven errors grammar, spelling, syntax and/or APA format.
0 ptsUnsatisfactory
Eight or more errors in grammar, spelling, syntax, and/or APA format Or Failure to comply with the word requirements for this assignment Or No assignment
30 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeLate penalty deductions
0 ptsNo Mark
0 ptsStudents are expected to submit assignments by the time they are due. Assignments submitted after the due date and time will receive a deduction of 10% of the total points possible for that assignment for each day the assignment is late. Assignments will be accepted, with penalty as described, up to a maximum of three days late, after which point a zero will be recorded for the assignment. minus ______ points
0 pts
Total Points: 200
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Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!


Step 1: Understand Your Assignment

The purpose of this assignment is to critique a mobile health app, use nursing and non-nursing knowledge in the critique process, and demonstrate your informatics skills to support clinical practice and personal development.

The first task is to select the appropriate medical app based on your birth month, as outlined in the instructions. Make sure to use the Google Play Store or the Apple iTunes App Store to find the app you need. You will then need to download and take a screenshot to prove that you’ve installed the app.


Step 2: Download the App

  1. Find the App:
    • Refer to the chart in the instructions that specifies which app to download based on your birth month. The options are:
      • January, February: MDCalc
      • March, April, May: Medscape
      • June, July, August: The Chief Complaint
      • September, October: Pocket Pharmacist (PocketRx)
      • November, December: SingleCare
  2. Download:
    • Use the Google Play Store (for Android) or Apple iTunes App Store (for Apple devices).
    • Take a screenshot after you’ve successfully downloaded the app. This will serve as proof of your download.

Step 3: Critical Appraisal (Part 2)

After downloading the app, the next task is to critique the app based on several criteria. This is the critical appraisal phase of your assignment. You’ll need to organize your paper following the headings below:

  • NAME: Identify the name of the app.
  • AUTHOR: Research who created or maintains the app. Be sure to provide a clear explanation.
  • ENDORSEMENT: Check if the app is FDA-regulated or endorsed by any academic or medical institutions.
  • OPERATION: Determine whether the app is a mobile or web-based platform and why it’s suitable for that platform.
  • AESTHETICS: Evaluate how easy it is to navigate the app and if it’s user-friendly.
  • PURPOSE: State the intended purpose of the app.
  • CLINICAL DECISION MAKING: Assess how the app could influence clinical decisions.
  • SAFETY: Consider if the app poses any risks to patient safety.
  • PRIVACY/SECURITY: Review the app’s privacy settings, policies, and security features.
  • USER: Identify who the app is intended for (e.g., providers, patients, or others).
  • DISTRIBUTION: Is the app intended for local or wider use?
  • CREDIBILITY: Evaluate how credible the information in the app is.
  • RELEVANCE: Consider how up-to-date the app is and if it aligns with evidence-based practices.

Be sure to answer each of these questions thoroughly, providing evidence and explanation for each point.


Step 4: Provide a Clinical Scenario (Part 3)

  1. Scenario Details:
    • Patient Population: Specify the patient’s age group (Pediatric, Adult, Geriatric).
    • Clinical Setting: Where will this app be used (e.g., hospital, private practice)?
    • Diagnosis/Condition: Describe the patient’s condition and history of present illness.
  2. App Implementation:
    • Describe how the app will be used in the scenario (e.g., at point-of-care or elsewhere).
    • Indicate who will use the app (e.g., healthcare provider, patient).
    • Discuss the potential impact of the app on clinical decision-making in this situation.
  3. Evidence-Based Support:
    • Incorporate one scholarly article that supports your clinical decision-making. This could be from a peer-reviewed journal, government report, or scholarly source. Remember to format citations according to APA style.

Step 5: Formatting Your Paper

  • Paper Length: Aim for 1,000 to 1,500 words. Exclude the title page and reference list from this word count.
  • APA Format: Make sure your paper is in proper APA format:
    • Use 12-point Times New Roman font.
    • Double-space your paper and set 1-inch margins on all sides.
    • Format your references in APA style (including in-text citations and the reference list).
    • Follow the Guidelines for Writing Professional Papers provided in your course.

Step 6: Use Scholarly Sources

  • Use peer-reviewed articles or other scholarly sources (e.g., government publications, reputable journals) for your references.
  • Avoid using sources like Wikipedia, blogs, or non-scholarly websites.
  • Use current sources, published within the last five years, unless you get instructor approval for older ones.

Step 7: Final Submission

  1. File Format: Your paper must be submitted in Microsoft Word (.docx) format.
  2. Proof of Download: Attach the screenshot of your app download as proof.
  3. Submit on Time: Submit your paper by 11:59 PM MT on the Sunday of Week 6. Late submissions will be penalized by 10% for each day late.

By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to organize and write a comprehensive paper that critiques the chosen mobile health app and demonstrates your nursing informatics skills. Keep the instructions in mind, stay organized, and use credible sources to support your work. Good luck!

Understanding Neonatal Growth Parameters: Key Concepts and Implications

1. Please list and define the 3 parameters used to categorize neonates as AGA, SGA, and LGA.

2. Please explain the following statements based on objective measurements:
a. A preterm neonate may still be categorized as AGA.
b. A post-term neonate may be categorized as SGA.
c. A preterm infant may be categorized as LGA.

3. Small for gestational age neonates may, or may not, be growth restricted.
a. Please explain the ways in which these concepts are and are not the same.
b. Please present a comparison of potential etiologies for an infant who is SGA but does not have evidence of IUGR versus an infant with is SGA with IUGR.

4. What is meant by the term “head sparing (or asymmetric) IUGR”? How is this an important distinction for an NNP to make when categorizing a neonate in terms of growth parameters?

5. Growth parameters can have significant implications for the birth process. Please finish the following statements:
a. Infants who are SGA with evidence of IUGR are at risk during labor and delivery because __________________ .
b. LGA infants are at risk during the delivery process because ___________________________.

6. Glucose management may become an issue for both SGA and LGA neonates in the first few hours of life.
a. For SGA infants, this is due to: ___________.
b. For LGA infants, this is due to: ___________.

Please chunk out your responses as the numbering / lettering system indicates (i.e. 1, 2, and 3… a. b. ) for clarity.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

1. Define the 3 Parameters Used to Categorize Neonates as AGA, SGA, and LGA

Neonates are categorized based on their birth weight in relation to their gestational age using the following parameters:

  • AGA (Appropriate for Gestational Age): Neonates whose birth weight falls between the 10th and 90th percentiles for their gestational age. These infants are considered to have a normal growth pattern for their gestational age.
  • SGA (Small for Gestational Age): Neonates whose birth weight is below the 10th percentile for their gestational age. These infants are considered smaller than expected for their gestational age.
  • LGA (Large for Gestational Age): Neonates whose birth weight is above the 90th percentile for their gestational age. These infants are considered larger than expected for their gestational age.

2. Explain the Following Statements Based on Objective Measurements

a. A preterm neonate may still be categorized as AGA:
A preterm neonate is one born before 37 weeks of gestation. Despite being preterm, if the infant’s birth weight is within the normal range (between the 10th and 90th percentiles) for their gestational age, they can still be categorized as AGA. This means that, relative to their gestational age, their growth is appropriate, even if their overall size may be smaller due to prematurity.

b. A post-term neonate may be categorized as SGA:
A post-term neonate is born after 42 weeks of gestation. If the infant has a birth weight that is below the 10th percentile for their gestational age, they would be categorized as SGA, even though they are post-term. This may occur if there are underlying issues affecting fetal growth during the later stages of pregnancy, such as placental insufficiency.

c. A preterm infant may be categorized as LGA:
A preterm infant can be categorized as LGA if their birth weight is above the 90th percentile for their gestational age, despite being born before 37 weeks. This could happen if the infant experiences rapid growth in the womb during the early stages of pregnancy or if maternal factors, such as gestational diabetes, contribute to excessive fetal growth.

3. Small for Gestational Age Neonates May, or May Not, Be Growth Restricted

a. Explain the ways in which these concepts are and are not the same:

  • SGA (Small for Gestational Age) refers to an infant whose birth weight is below the 10th percentile for their gestational age. It is a descriptive term based on the infant’s size relative to gestational age, but it does not necessarily imply that the infant’s growth was restricted during pregnancy.
  • IUGR (Intrauterine Growth Restriction) refers to a condition where an infant’s growth is restricted during pregnancy, often due to factors that impair placental blood flow or nutrient supply, leading to a failure to reach expected growth for gestational age. All infants with IUGR are SGA, but not all SGA infants have evidence of IUGR. Some SGA infants may have grown appropriately but are simply small due to factors such as maternal genetics or health conditions.

b. Comparison of Potential Etiologies for an Infant Who Is SGA But Does Not Have Evidence of IUGR Versus an Infant Who Is SGA With IUGR:

  • SGA without IUGR: These infants may be small due to factors like maternal genetics (e.g., the mother being small in stature) or environmental factors (e.g., low birth weight runs in the family). Their growth was not restricted during pregnancy, and the cause is typically less concerning than IUGR.
  • SGA with IUGR: These infants are small because of factors that interfere with fetal growth during pregnancy, such as placental insufficiency, maternal hypertension, smoking, infections, or poor maternal nutrition. IUGR indicates that the fetus was not receiving adequate nutrients or oxygen, which is a more critical condition for the infant’s well-being and requires close monitoring.

4. What Is Meant by the Term “Head Sparing (or Asymmetric) IUGR”?

Head sparing (or asymmetric) IUGR refers to a form of intrauterine growth restriction where the fetal head maintains a relatively normal growth pattern despite overall restricted growth in the body. This occurs because the body prioritizes the brain’s development, ensuring that the brain receives sufficient oxygen and nutrients. This distinction is crucial for an NNP (Neonatal Nurse Practitioner) to recognize because it helps to assess the severity and underlying cause of growth restriction. In asymmetric IUGR, the infant may appear relatively proportionate with a normal-sized head but have a smaller body size, indicating that growth restriction occurred later in pregnancy, often due to placental insufficiency.

5. Growth Parameters Can Have Significant Implications for the Birth Process

a. Infants who are SGA with evidence of IUGR are at risk during labor and delivery because:
They may experience complications such as fetal distress, meconium aspiration, or difficulties with oxygenation and perfusion due to the impaired placental function during pregnancy. Their small size and compromised growth can lead to a higher risk of hypoxia or acidosis during labor, which can require closer monitoring or interventions such as a cesarean section.

b. LGA infants are at risk during the delivery process because:
Larger infants can have difficulty passing through the birth canal, leading to a higher likelihood of shoulder dystocia, birth trauma (e.g., clavicle fractures, nerve injuries), or need for cesarean section. Their larger size also increases the risk of hypoxia or cord compression during delivery.

6. Glucose Management May Become an Issue for Both SGA and LGA Neonates in the First Few Hours of Life

a. For SGA infants, this is due to:
SGA infants may have impaired glycogen stores due to poor growth in utero, making them more susceptible to hypoglycemia shortly after birth. The compromised placental function that caused growth restriction may also affect nutrient and glucose transport to the fetus, leading to lower glucose reserves at birth.

b. For LGA infants, this is due to:
LGA infants, particularly those born to mothers with diabetes (gestational or pregestational), may have excessive insulin production in response to elevated maternal glucose levels during pregnancy. After birth, the infant may experience hypoglycemia due to high insulin levels, even though they are large, as the insulin continues to circulate in the bloodstream after the placental blood supply is cut off.


By following this step-by-step structure, you can clearly address each part of the assignment, explaining key concepts while maintaining clarity and organization throughout your responses. Make sure to use medical terminology accurately and support your explanations with logical reasoning.

Differential Diagnosis for Hypertension in a Preterm Neonate

Differential Diagnosis Exercises
You want to create a Differential Diagnostic list for each of the cases presented here. You want to rank the list from the most to least likely. Secondly, provide next to each of the possible diagnoses concerns from the history, PE and or test results provided that support the diagnosis, as this information will help you rank the list. Since, you have not had the pathophysiology content as yet to identify fully with the list of possible diseases you do not need to place testing and or treatments you would consider next to each.
You will notice that the cases have become more complex with an increasing amount of information provided for each. This is deliberate, first focusing on the sign/symptom providing a differential list with the information that you have and then building on more complex information that will help you to rank and state why a diagnosis would not be considered in a particular case. The focus sign/symptom is provided for you at the end of each case.
Case #1
14 day old former 28 week gestation male infant, now 30 weeks adjusted age.
Resp: CPAP 7, 21% oxygen. stable with few A/B’s self resolving, on caffeine
CV: Hypertension, BP 101/66 LA, 102/72 RA, 110/64 LL, 112/63 RA noted today; umbilical venous catheter (UVC) placed on admission, discontinued DOL 6.
FEN: voiding and stooling WNL. Feeding 24 cal/oz maternal breast milk (using human milk fortifier) @ 160ml/kg/d per gavage
Heme: Blood type A (+); Hct. 36%; plt. 189K
ID: initial R/o sepsis, abx x 48hrs upon admission. Blood cx. (-) final
Neuro: HUS DOL 10 Gr. I IVH on the right
HEENT: anterior fontanel open soft & flat; eyes normal position, (+) red reflex; nares patent bilaterally, RAM cannula in placed nasal septum intact; ears of normal rotation, without preauricular pits or sinus; mouth palate intact; neck: supple without masses.
Resp.: breath sounds are clear and equal bilaterally
CV: heart S1 & S2 audible without murmur, peripheral pulses are of normal intensity and present in all 4 extremities, color pink, capillary refill of <3 seconds upper and lower extremities
GI: abdomen soft & flat, without organomegaly, anus is patent; G.U.: non-dysmorphic male, testes high in the canal; Extremities: 10 digits hands and feet, Hips (-) Ortolani and Barlow’s maneuver bilaterally.
Neuro: Tone AGA; spine intact without pits or sinus; Skin Pink, well perfused.
DD for Hypertension
use apa format when referencing info. thank you!

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

1. Neonatal Hypertension (Primary)

  • History/PE Concerns: The infant is a preterm neonate (28 weeks gestation), and hypertension can be common in preterm infants due to underdeveloped kidneys and immature vasoregulation. The BP measurements (101/66 LA, 102/72 RA, etc.) are elevated compared to normal neonatal BP levels. The infant has an umbilical venous catheter (UVC) that was discontinued by day of life (DOL) 6, which may be relevant as central lines in neonates can sometimes contribute to hypertension.
  • Supporting Factors: No signs of systemic infection or other causes that could explain the hypertension. The infant is receiving caffeine, a common treatment for apnea of prematurity, which could theoretically affect the blood pressure regulation in neonates, but hypertension could still occur independently.
  • Conclusion: This is the most likely diagnosis, as it is common in preterm infants, and other causes are less likely with the information provided.

2. Renal Disease/Anomalies

  • History/PE Concerns: Although the history does not specifically mention renal anomalies, hypertension in neonates can be associated with renal abnormalities such as renal artery stenosis, obstructive uropathy, or other congenital renal conditions. The absence of any dysmorphic features in the genitalia and an otherwise normal exam could make this diagnosis less likely, but the history doesn’t rule it out.
  • Supporting Factors: Elevated blood pressure in a neonate could also point to renal disease, particularly if renal function is compromised. However, without specific renal-related symptoms (e.g., abnormal urine output, electrolyte abnormalities), this is considered less likely.
  • Conclusion: This is a less likely diagnosis, but it cannot be fully excluded without further renal investigations.

3. Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)

  • History/PE Concerns: PDA can lead to hypertension in preterm infants due to altered circulation. While the exam does not note a murmur typically associated with PDA, it is important to remember that in preterm infants, the ductus arteriosus may close spontaneously. Hypertension could be secondary to the hemodynamic effects of PDA.
  • Supporting Factors: The infant’s clinical presentation (respiratory support, low gestational age) is consistent with a risk for PDA, although there is no mention of a murmur or evidence of heart failure.
  • Conclusion: This diagnosis is possible but unlikely without other signs of heart failure or a murmur.

4. Intraventricular Hemorrhage (IVH)

  • History/PE Concerns: The infant has a Grade I IVH (on the right), which is a common finding in preterm infants. In some cases, IVH can lead to increased intracranial pressure, which may contribute to secondary hypertension.
  • Supporting Factors: The baby’s IVH status is noted, and while a Grade I IVH is typically not severe, it could still be contributing to elevated blood pressure if there are associated complications (e.g., hydrocephalus, increased intracranial pressure).
  • Conclusion: This is a possible but less likely diagnosis as the IVH appears to be mild (Grade I) and without severe neurological symptoms.

5. Adrenal Tumor (e.g., Pheochromocytoma)

  • History/PE Concerns: While rare, a pheochromocytoma (a tumor of the adrenal medulla) can present with hypertension in neonates. However, these tumors are extremely rare in infants, especially preterm infants.
  • Supporting Factors: There are no specific signs or symptoms (e.g., palpitations, sweating, tremors) that suggest this condition. The absence of these additional features makes it unlikely.
  • Conclusion: This is highly unlikely based on the absence of symptoms and the rarity of this condition in neonates.

6. Sepsis/Septic Shock

  • History/PE Concerns: The infant had an initial rule-out for sepsis with antibiotics administered for 48 hours. Sepsis in neonates can sometimes lead to hypertension in the early phase, especially when there is inadequate response to infection or when it causes hemodynamic instability.
  • Supporting Factors: The blood cultures were negative, making sepsis a less likely diagnosis. However, a subclinical or undetected infection could still be a possibility, although this seems less likely given the lack of positive culture results or other indicators of systemic infection.
  • Conclusion: This diagnosis is unlikely due to negative blood cultures and the lack of systemic signs of infection.

7. Hypoxia/Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS)

  • History/PE Concerns: The infant is on CPAP and receiving 21% oxygen, which indicates respiratory support. While hypoxia itself can sometimes lead to secondary hypertension, the infant is described as stable with few episodes of apnea/bradycardia (A/B’s) and is on caffeine, suggesting a controlled respiratory condition.
  • Supporting Factors: There is no evidence of acute respiratory distress or worsening hypoxia, and the infant is stable with no signs of significant respiratory failure.
  • Conclusion: This is unlikely based on the infant’s stable respiratory status and lack of acute hypoxic events.

8. Medication Effects (e.g., Caffeine, Steroids)

  • History/PE Concerns: The infant is on caffeine, a treatment commonly used for apnea of prematurity. Caffeine can have cardiovascular effects, including increased blood pressure, although it is generally not associated with sustained hypertension in most cases.
  • Supporting Factors: The caffeine use could be contributing to elevated blood pressure, though it is unlikely to be the primary cause. No other medications (e.g., steroids, diuretics) are mentioned that could affect blood pressure.
  • Conclusion: This is a possible but less likely contributor to the elevated blood pressure.

9. Thyroid Disease (e.g., Hyperthyroidism)

  • History/PE Concerns: Hyperthyroidism can cause hypertension due to increased metabolic rate, but this is rare in neonates. There are no signs or symptoms (e.g., weight loss, irritability, tremors) to suggest thyroid dysfunction.
  • Supporting Factors: No history of thyroid issues or symptoms suggestive of thyroid disease. The lack of any concerning signs makes this diagnosis unlikely.
  • Conclusion: This is highly unlikely without any symptoms or risk factors for thyroid dysfunction.

Final Ranked Differential Diagnosis:

  1. Neonatal Hypertension (Primary)
  2. Renal Disease/Anomalies
  3. Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
  4. Intraventricular Hemorrhage (IVH)
  5. Sepsis/Septic Shock
  6. Medication Effects (e.g., Caffeine)
  7. Hypoxia/Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS)
  8. Adrenal Tumor (e.g., Pheochromocytoma)
  9. Thyroid Disease (e.g., Hyperthyroidism)

The most likely cause of hypertension in this infant is Neonatal Hypertension, which is common in preterm infants and often resolves as the infant matures. Other causes such as renal disease or PDA should be considered, but they are less likely based on the available history and exam findings.