Journal of Vocational Nursing

FRONT MATTER OCTOBER 2025

2025-10-27T15:23:29+07:00

FRONT MATTER OCTOBER 2025

DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, AND STRESS IN FAMILIES CARING FOR PERSONS WITH MENTAL DISORDERS

2025-06-16T13:15:01+07:00

Introduction: Mental disorders can disrupt the psychological, emotional, and social functioning of individuals, manifesting through symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and decreased motivation. These conditions can affect the families who care for them, often leading to depression, anxiety, and stress. Objective to determine the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among families caring for individuals with mental disorders. Methods: This quantitative descriptive study involved 75 families who cared for individuals with mental disorders and met predetermined inclusion criteria. The research was conducted in the Manyar Sub-district Health Center area, Gresik Regency, in March 2022. A total of 63 respondents were selected using a purposive sampling method. Data were collected through questionnaires administered during home visits. The variables of depression, anxiety, and stress were measured using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS). Results: The study revealed that 57% of families caring for members with mental disorders experienced mild levels of depression. The majority (60%) reported moderate levels of anxiety, while most families (78%) showed normal levels of stress. Conclusions: Most families caring for individuals with mental disorders experienced mild depression, moderate anxiety, and normal stress levels. Providing mental health education and relaxation training for family caregivers is important to reduce depression, anxiety, and stress, thereby improving the quality of care.

ELECTROCHEMICAL SENSOR FOR ELECTROLYTE SCREENING IN SIMULATED RENAL SAMPLES

2025-08-20T11:27:00+07:00

Introduction: Electrolyte imbalance frequently occurs in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) due to impaired renal regulation of ions such as sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate. Uncorrected abnormalities can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, neuromuscular dysfunction, and increased mortality. Regular monitoring is critical; however, conventional laboratory methods often require complex equipment and are inaccessible in low-resource settings. Electrochemical sensors provide a practical alternative by enabling rapid, direct measurement of electrolytes through electrical signals generated by ion-selective electrodes. Methods: This study presents the development and validation of a drop-casting-based electrochemical sensor designed for detecting sodium (Na+), potassium (K+, chloride (Cl-), and bicarbonate (HCO₃-) ions. The sensor was fabricated using a low-cost and straightforward method and tested with synthetic serum simulating both normal and renal failure conditions. Results: Calibration curves demonstrated strong linearity (R² > 0.93) for all ions, with minimal deviation for Na+ and K+ Performance validation showed acceptable sensitivity and stabilization time (<10 seconds), supporting its potential for point-of-care use. Conclusions: The device is easy to use, portable, and affordable, making it suitable for vocational healthcare workers in primary health centers and home-based care. Despite limitations in bicarbonate detection, the sensor shows promise for early electrolyte screening in decentralized healthcare settings. Further refinement and broader validation are recommended.

EFFECTIVENESS OF ABDOMINAL STRETCHING EXERCISE AND PROGRESSIVE MUSCLE RELAXATION ON REDUCING THE INTENSITY OF DYSMENORRHEA IN ADOLESCENT GIRLS

2025-01-13T13:32:26+07:00

Introduction: Abdominal exercises help reduce pain by increasing blood circulation to the abdominal region, reducing muscle spasms, and improving flexibility of the uterine muscles. Muscle relaxation progressively reduces muscle tension and stress, which can worsen menstrual pain. This combination significantly reduces dysmenorrhea intensity, increases comfort, and supports the quality of life among adolescent girls. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of abdominal stretching exercises and progressive muscle relaxation on reducing dysmenorrhea in teenage girls in Meluntur Village. Methods: This study used a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental design, namely a two group pre-test and post-test control group design. A sample of 24 respondents was divided into two groups. The abdominal stretching exercise intervention was carried out on the first to third day of menstruation for 15 minutes twice a day, morning and evening. Progressive muscle relaxation intervention was carried out on the first to third day of menstruation for 15-30 minutes with a frequency of once a day, in the morning. The dependent variable was pain intensity in dysmenorrhea as measured by a numerical measurement scale. Results: The Wilcoxon test results for the abdominal stretching exercise group showed a p value = 0.025 (α<0.05) and for the progressive muscle relaxation group p value = 0.046 (α<0.05). The Mann Whitney test results showed a p value = 0.660 (α <0.05), indicating that there was no difference in the decrease in dysmenorrhea after the two interventions, because both helped reduce the intensity of dysmenorrhea. Conclusions: Adolescent girls who experience dysmenorrhea can perform either of these interventions.

IMPLEMENTATION OF DHIKR THERAPY FOR MENTAL DISORDERS WITH SENSORY PERCEPTION DISTURBANCE NURSING PROBLEMS AT CANDIPURO COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER

2025-02-18T11:54:33+07:00

Introduction: Mental disorders are a serious health issue that can significantly affect a person's quality of life. One common symptom experienced by patients with mental disorders is auditory hallucination. Dhikr therapy is a non-pharmacological approach that can be used to help patients with auditory hallucinations. This case study aims to assist patients in reducing the level of auditory hallucinations using dhikr therapy. Methods: This research employed a case study with a descriptive-narrative method through a mental health nursing process approach involving one patient with auditory hallucinations at the Mental Health Service Unit of the Candipuro Community Health Center from June 11–13, 2024. The intervention included nursing actions that involved dhikr therapy conducted for three days with a duration of 10–20 minutes per session. Data analysis was performed by observing changes in the level of hallucinations before and after dhikr therapy. Results: The implementation of dhikr therapy for three days showed a reduction in auditory hallucinations and an improvement in sensory perception criteria. The patient rarely heard whispers, sensory distortions decreased, patient responses improved, and behaviors indicating the perception of hearing voices diminished. The AHRS questionnaire results indicated the effectiveness of dhikr therapy in reducing auditory hallucinations, with a final score of 17, categorizing it as moderate hallucination. Conclusions: Based on the results of this case study, it is hoped that nurses can provide dhikr therapy as a non-pharmacological treatment option for patients with mental disorders experiencing auditory hallucinations. This research is also expected to be developed further by applying dhikr therapy to multiple patients with similar cases for comparative analysis.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ROOM HEAD SUPERVISION AND NURSES COMPLIANCE IN IMPLEMENTING FALL RISK PREVENTION IN THE INPATIENT ROOM OF ARIFIN ACHMAD HOSPITAL

2024-12-27T09:28:44+07:00

Introduction: The purpose of this research was to determine the relationship between room head supervision and nurses’ compliance in implementing fall risk prevention in the inpatient room at Arifin Achmad Hospital. Methods: This research used a descriptive correlative design with a cross-sectional approach. The research sample consisted of 76 respondents, selected using the total sampling technique. Supervision was measured using a 28-item questionnaire, consisting of 17 favorable items and 11 unfavorable items, with a Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient of 0.912. Nurse compliance was measured using a 9-item questionnaire, with a Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient of 0.973. Data were analyzed using bivariate analysis with the chi-square test. Results: The results of the study showed that 39 nurses (51.3%) were in the compliant category in implementing fall risk prevention. Most of the compliant nurses received good supervision from the head room, as reported by 29 nurses (72.5%). Meanwhile, among the 37 nurses (48.7%) in the less compliant category, the majority received poor supervision from the head room, as stated by 26 nurses (72.2%). The statistical test results showed a p-value of 0.000 (< 0.05), indicating that the null hypothesis (H₀) was rejected. Conclusions: It can be concluded that there is a significant relationship between head room supervision and nurses’ compliance in implementing fall risk prevention in the inpatient rooms of Arifin Achmad Hospital.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FAMILY STRESS, DEPRESSION, AND COPING MECHANISMS IN SCHIZOPHRENIA FAMILIES

2025-02-18T11:48:16+07:00

Introduction: Families play a crucial role in caring for members with schizophrenia, but the stress and depression resulting from caregiving often overshadow the coping mechanisms used. This study aims to analyze the relationship between stress, depression, and coping mechanisms in families caring for individuals with schizophrenia. Methods: A quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design was used. The sample included 59 families with members suffering from schizophrenia who were receiving treatment at the Outpatient Clinic of dr. Samsi Jacobalis Mental Hospital in Bangka Belitung Islands Province in 2024. Stress and depression were measured using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-42), with Cronbach's alpha values of 0.8806 for stress and 0.9053 for depression. Coping mechanisms were measured using the Brief COPE, with a reliability coefficient of 0.952. Data were analyzed using the chi-square test with SPSS software. Results: The study found that 31 individuals (52.5%) experienced severe stress, and 38 individuals (64.4%) experienced moderate depression. Additionally, 39 individuals (66.1%) exhibited maladaptive coping mechanisms. Statistical analysis revealed a significant relationship between stress and coping mechanisms (p = 0.000), and between depression and coping mechanisms (p = 0.000). Conclusions: The study concludes that there is a relationship between stress and depression with family coping mechanisms in schizophrenia patients. It is recommended that families be provided with clear information about schizophrenia, its impact, and how to care for affected members. Additionally, offering training on adaptive coping strategies, such as relaxation, mindfulness, and acceptance, may help families better manage stress and depression.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FAMILY SUPPORT AND PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING AMONG PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS AT SUKODADI PUBLIC HEALTH CENTER, LAMONGAN REGENCY

2025-06-23T14:15:35+07:00

Introduction: Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease that commonly affects many individuals. It can lead to a lack of self-acceptance, depression, and high levels of anxiety. This can negatively impact a person's psychological well-being, making family support crucial. This study aims to analyze the relationship between family support and psychological well-being among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus at Sukodadi Public Health Center, Lamongan Regency. Methods: This research used a quantitative correlational design with a cross-sectional study approach. The sample consisted of 50 subjects selected through consecutive sampling. The research instruments used were Hensarling's Diabetes Family Support Scale (HDFSS) and Ryff's Psychological Well-Being Scale (RPWB). Results: The results showed that almost all respondents had high family support, with 88% of respondents reporting this. More than half of the respondents demonstrated good psychological well-being, accounting for 52%. Based on the Chi-Square test, highly significant results were obtained, as evidenced by the Asymp. Sig value of P = 0.000. Conclusions: There was a significant relationship between family support and psychological well-being among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus at Sukodadi Public Health Center, Lamongan Regency. The results of this study are expected to provide information, serve as a guideline, and offer input regarding the importance of psychological well-being, which can positively influence the health outcomes of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

STRESS, ANXIETY, AND DEPRESSION IN STOMATITIS PATHOGENESIS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

2025-05-26T09:28:02+07:00

Introduction: Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis (RAS) is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by painful ulcers on the oral mucosa. Emerging evidence indicates that psychological factors, such as stress, anxiety, and depression, may play a role in its development. This review aims to examine the influence of these mental health factors on the onset and progression of RAS based on recent scientific literature. Methods: he exact mechanisms through which psychological stressors contribute to RAS remain poorly understood. To address this, a systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines to consolidate current research findings. A thorough search was performed across PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar to identify original studies published within the past decade. The search terms used were: ("Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis" OR "RAS") AND ("Stress" OR "Anxiety" OR "Depression") AND ("Psychological Factors" OR "Mental Health"). Results: Findings from the reviewed literature indicate a strong correlation between stress and both the initiation and recurrence of RAS. This association appears to be largely driven by the activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, resulting in increased cortisol levels and subsequent suppression of immune function. These physiological changes are believed to weaken mucosal defenses, thereby increasing vulnerability to ulcer formation. Conclusions: These insights underscore the importance of incorporating psychological interventions—particularly stress-reduction techniques—into the management of RAS to enhance patient well-being and reduce symptom burden.

EXPLORING PROFESSIONALISM: CHARACTERISTICS AND SELF-CONCEPT OF IMPLEMENTING NURSES

2025-02-18T11:47:27+07:00

Introduction: To enhance the delivery and quality of nursing care, which in turn affects nurse satisfaction, a professional self-concept among nurses is required. Various factors, including the nature of nursing, impact this self-concept. In this study, the professional self-concept of implementing nurses at Pandan Arang Hospital in Boyolali was compared with several nurse characteristics. Methods: The research methodology employed a cross-sectional descriptive correlational design. Seventy-two nurses in inpatient wards served as the research sample, selected using a total sampling approach. The questionnaire on nurses' professional self-concept was taken from Angel, Craven, and Denson, which was adopted by Juanamasta, covering four aspects: care, knowledge, staff relations, and leadership. As part of the data-gathering method, a questionnaire was utilized. Results: According to the research findings, among the nurses at Pandan Arang Boyolali Hospital, the majority (51.1%) had a positive professional self-concept. Furthermore, there was no significant relationship between age, gender, employment status, or length of work and nurses' professional self-concept, as indicated by a p-value > 0.05. However, a significant relationship was found between marital status and nurses' professional self-concept, as indicated by a p-value < 0.05. Conculsions: The results of this study suggest that age, gender, employment status, and length of employment are not significantly related to nurses’ professional self-concept. However, a significant relationship was observed between marital status and nurses' professional self-concept.

THE ABILITY OF SELF-CONTROL IN INFLUENCING THE EMERGENCE OF AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR IN ADOLESCENTS

2025-03-06T13:31:38+07:00

Introduction: Adolescence is a transitional period between childhood and adulthood, characterized by social and psychological changes, making teenagers vulnerable to aggressive behavior. Aggressive behavior in adolescence has become a serious issue because it can have negative impacts, such as being labeled a troublemaker or being shunned by peers. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between self-control and aggressive behavior in adolescents. Methods: This study used a correlational design with a cross-sectional method. The population consisted of 194 adolescents, from which a sample of 129 participants was selected using the simple random sampling technique. Self-control was measured using a questionnaire consisting of 17 items, including 9 favorable and 8 unfavorable items, with a Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient of 0.825. Aggressive behavior was measured using 32 items, including 30 favorable and 2 unfavorable items, with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.806. After data tabulation, analysis was performed using Spearman’s rho test with SPSS. Results: There was a significant negative correlation between self-control and aggressive behavior in adolescents (rs = -0.559, p < 0.001). Conclusions: These results indicate that adolescents with higher self-control tend to exhibit lower levels of aggressive behavior. Efforts to reduce aggression can be made by enhancing self-control through the development of emotional maturity in adolescents.

HEAD UP POSITION 30° - 45° FOR SUCCESSFUL VENTILATOR WEANING PROCESS IN INTENSIVE CARE UNIT

2025-06-22T10:12:30+07:00

Introduction: Ventilator weaning is the process of transitioning a patient from ventilator support to independent breathing for more than 48 hours. A 30°-45°head-up position, where the patient's head is raised above the bed, with the body parallel to the bed and the legs straight or unflexed, is believed to influence the success of the weaning process. This study aims to analyze the relationship between a 30°-45°head-up position and the success of ventilator weaning. Methods: A retrospective design was used, with 40 patients meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Total sampling was applied, taking the entire population as the sample. Data were collected from patient medical records in the ICU from May to July 2023 to evaluate the head-up position and the success of ventilator weaning. Data analysis was performed using the chi-square test to determine the significance of the relationship between the variables. Results: The study results showed a significant association between a 30°-45° head-up position and successful weaning in ventilator patients, with a p-value of 0.000 (<0.05). The majority of patients positioned with their heads up were successfully extubated and did not require further ventilator support for the next 48 hours. This head-up position is believed to help increase lung capacity and respiratory efficiency during the weaning process. Conclusions: maintaining a 30°-45° head-up position playe a crucial role in successful ventilator weaning. Therefore, careful monitoring and thorough assessment during the weaning process could be essential to ensure rapid and accurate extubation in ventilator patients.

NURSES’ EXPERIENCES IN PROVIDING SPIRITUAL CARE OF PATIENTS WITH HEART FAILURE

2025-09-10T12:57:20+07:00

Introduction: Spirituality plays an important role in the physical health of patients with chronic diseases. This study aimed to explore the experiences of nurses in providing spiritual care to patients with heart failure (HF) in Indonesia. Method: This study employed a descriptive exploratory design with a qualitative approach. Thirteen nurses from the cardiology unit were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and field notes. Thematic analysis was conducted to analyze the data. Results: Five major themes emerged, including perceptions regarding spiritual care, the importance of meeting the spiritual needs of patients, implementation of spiritual care, obstacles in providing spiritual care, and nurses’ hopes. Most participants associated spiritual care with religious practices. All participants believed that the spiritual needs of patients with HF must be met. However, spiritual care was still rarely implemented. Nurses commonly assisted patients in performing religious practices rather than addressing existential needs. The barriers to providing spiritual care originated from patients, nurses, and the availability of tools. The nurses hoped that specific personnel could provide spiritual care and that spiritual guidance activities in the hospital could be reactivated. Conclusions: Spiritual care remains a neglected aspect in the treatment of patients with HF. Facilitating religious practices is the primary intervention that fulfills the spiritual needs of patients with HF in Indonesia.

THE LEVEL OF PATIENT FAMILY SATISFACTION IN THE EMERGENCY INSTALLATION (IGD): A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY

2025-09-22T10:05:59+07:00

Introduction: The overcrowded Emergency Department (ED) conditions often make nurses feel overwhelmed when handling patients, causing family members to want their loved ones to be treated more quickly. However, in reality, the patient's condition may not be critical or an emergency. This leads the family to feel dissatisfied and unwilling to accept the services provided by nurses. This study aimed to determine the level of satisfaction among patient families in the ED of Dr. Soegiri Lamongan Regional Hospital. Methods: The research used a descriptive quantitative method with a convenience sampling technique. The sample consisted of 103 respondents who were family members of patients in the Emergency Department of Dr. Soegiri Lamongan Regional Hospital. The variable examined was family satisfaction, which was measured using the 20-item RATER questionnaire. Data analysis was conducted using univariate techniques and presented in frequency distribution tables. Results: The study show that the level of satisfaction among patient families in the ED of Dr. Soegiri Lamongan Regional Hospital was generally categorized as quite satisfied. Conclusions: Efforts undertaken by nurses and hospitals to improve and maintain patient and family satisfaction include routine room supervision and the implementation of nursing training activities to enhance the quality of nursing services and patient satisfaction at Dr. Soegiri Lamongan Regional Hospital. Institutions must be committed to fostering a high-quality service environment by providing staff with the necessary resources, facilities, and policies.

ANALYSIS OF FACTORS RELATED TO EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CHILDREN

2025-09-10T12:27:11+07:00

Introduction: Middle childhood is a crucial period for developing emotions, including recognizing, expressing, and regulating them. Several factors influence a child’s emotional development. This study aimed to analyze the factors related to emotional development in elementary school children. Methods: This study employed an observational analytical design with a cross-sectional approach. The sample consisted of 55 respondents selected using purposive sampling according to predetermined inclusion criteria. The independent variables were the child’s sex, gadget use, parents’ age, occupation, and education level. The dependent variable was emotional development. Data were collected using questionnaires assessing the child’s sex, parents’ age, education, and occupation, as well as the Pediatric Symptom Checklist–17 (Indonesian version) and a questionnaire on gadget use. Data were analyzed using the chi-square test and multiple logistic regression with the assistance of SPSS. Results: There was a significant relationship between gadget use and emotional development among children at school (p = 0.006), with an odds ratio of 5.365. This indicates that children who use gadgets are five times more likely to experience emotional problems than those who do not. Conclusions: It is necessary to establish parenting patterns for gadget use in the digital era, including setting clear rules and time limits, accompanying children during gadget use, selecting age-appropriate content, supervising online activities, and serving as role models for the wise use of gadgets to support the emotional development of school-aged children.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN KNOWLEDGE AND EARLY WEANING OF BREASTFEEDING

2025-08-22T09:54:19+07:00

Introduction: Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first six months of life and may be continued until the child is two years old, providing numerous benefits for the mother, baby, family, and nation. However, not all mothers breastfeed for the full six months, a practice known as early weaning. This study aims to analyze the relationship between mothers’ knowledge and early weaning practices. This study aims to analyze the relationship between knowledge and early weaning of breastfeeding. Methods: This quantitative analytical study was conducted in May 2024 at the Kebomas Community Health Center. A total of 44 mothers with children aged 6–24 months who met the inclusion criteria were selected using purposive sampling. Data on mothers’ knowledge regarding breastfeeding and early weaning were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using the chi-square test with SPSS. Results: The findings indicate a relationship between mothers’ knowledge and early weaning practices in the Kebomas Community Health Center working area. Conclusions: Breastfeeding has positive effects on mothers, babies, families, and the nation. If early weaning is practiced by many mothers who lack knowledge about breastfeeding, these benefits may be lost. Education and counseling for pregnant women, continued through the postpartum period, are needed to prevent early weaning.

BACK MATTER OCTOBER 2025

2025-10-27T15:24:41+07:00

BACK MATTER OCTOBER 2025