Alice Loke | The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (original) (raw)

Papers by Alice Loke

Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy, 2015

The purpose of this systematic review is to explore the types, content, and outcomes of different... more The purpose of this systematic review is to explore the types, content, and outcomes of different psychosocial approaches used in existing interventions for infertile individuals or couples. Relevant intervention studies published in English between 2000 and 2014 were searched using the electronic databases MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and CINHAL Plus. A total of 23 articles were identified and included in this review. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and counseling were the most commonly adopted psychosocial interventions for infertile individuals or couples. After reviewing the various approaches, directions are given on the development of interventions for couples suffering from infertility.

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2015

Psycho-oncology, Jan 23, 2015

Guided by the Preliminary Live with Love Conceptual Framework (P-LLCF) for Cancer Couple Dyads, a... more Guided by the Preliminary Live with Love Conceptual Framework (P-LLCF) for Cancer Couple Dyads, a Caring for Couples Coping with Cancer (4Cs) program was developed to support couples coping with cancer as a unit. This study examined the acceptability, feasibility, and the preliminary effect of the 4Cs program. A pre- and post-intervention study design with no control group was conducted among Chinese cancer patients and their spousal caregivers. Among the 135 couples approached, a total of 117 dyads were successfully recruited at baseline, with 92 dyads successfully followed-up at 6 weeks. Outcome measures, including dyadic mediators (self-efficacy), dyadic appraisal (Cancer Related Communication Problem, CRCP), dyadic coping (Dyadic Coping Inventory, DCI), and dyadic outcomes (physical and mental health, negative and positive emotions, and marital satisfaction), were assessed at T0 (pre-intervention) and T1 (post-intervention). Repeated measures analysis of variance was applied in ...

Substance abuse treatment, prevention, and policy, 2014

Substance use among adolescents has caused worldwide public health concern in recent years. Overs... more Substance use among adolescents has caused worldwide public health concern in recent years. Overseas studies have demonstrated an association between adolescent self-esteem and substance use, but studies within a Chinese context are limited. A study was therefore initiated to: (1) explore the 30 days prevalence of substance use (smoking, drinking, and drugs) among male and female adolescents in Hong Kong; (2) identify the significant associations between multidimensional self-esteem and gender; and (3) examine the relationship between multi-dimensional self-esteem and substance use. A self-esteem scale and the Chinese version of the global school-based student health survey were adopted. A total of 1,223 students were recruited from two mixed-gender schools and one boys' school. Among females, there was a lower 30-day prevalence of cigarette, alcohol, and drug use. They also had significantly higher peer and family self-esteem but lower sport-related self-esteem. Body image self...

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2015

In this case-control study the association between the approaches used to feed infants, together ... more In this case-control study the association between the approaches used to feed infants, together with known family and environmental factors, and the occurrence of atopic illness in toddlers between the ages of 4 months to 3 years in Hong Kong was examined. A total of 206 subjects were recruited from April to June of 2014. The results obtained by binary logistic regression indicated that atopy is associated with boys (OR 2.072, CI 1.089-3.941), the maternal use of antibiotics in utero or while breast feeding (OR 2.276, CI 1.151-4.504), the later commencement of mixed feeding (OR 2.497, CI 1.025-6.082), breast feeding exclusively for 3 months (OR 1.972, CI 1.009-3.857), and having a mother who was diagnosed with eczema (OR 4.510, CI 1.764-11.530). Although an exclusive reliance on breast feeding has been shown to be predictive of atopy among toddlers, the positive qualities of breast milk cannot be ignored. A further study of the contents and nutritional values of breast milk is warranted.

The Journal of nursing education, 1997

This study adopted an action research approach in addressing the question: How could nurses be pr... more This study adopted an action research approach in addressing the question: How could nurses be prepared to be reflective practitioners? The study took place among a group of registered nurses who enrolled in the first year of their degree studies at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. The methods of data collection included observation, interview, students' written material, and teacher reflection. The experience of this study suggested that teachers and students should be partners in the promotion of reflective learning among students. As teachers reflected on their teaching arrangement and the progress of student learning, students could accordingly be offered appropriate guidance. Throughout the span of their studies, students learned to gradually develop different perspectives in viewing professional nursing practice. The reconceptualization of nursing practice helped students challenge taken-for-granted views and eventually reconstruct their conception of nursing.

International Journal of Nursing Studies, 2007

Background: Peer tutoring involves students helping each other to learn. It places teaching and l... more Background: Peer tutoring involves students helping each other to learn. It places teaching and learning commitments and responsibilities on students. Considerable evidence supports the positive effects of peer tutoring, including cognitive gains, improved communication, self-confidence, and social support among students. Peer tutors are also said to better understand the learning problems of fellow peer learners than teachers do. Objective: This study intended to facilitate the development of 'cooperative learning' among nursing students through a peer-tutoring scheme. Study method: Undergraduate nursing students were invited to join a peer-tutoring scheme. Fourteen students studying year 3 were recruited to serve as peer tutors and 16 students from year 2 of the same program participated as tutees. Peer tutors attended a training workshop and received a guideline for peer-tutoring activities. They were to provide a total of '10 weekly tutoring sessions throughout the semester on a one-to-one basis for their tutees. Focus groups and individual interviews were conducted in the middle and at the end of the semester to evaluate the students' experiences in the tutoring process. Results: Content analysis of the interview scripts identified that students had both positive and negative experiences from the peer tutoring, but that positive experiences predominated. Positive aspects included enhancement of learning skills/intellectual gains and personal growth. Negative experiences stemmed mainly from frustrations in dealing with mismatched learning styles between tutors and tutees, and the required time commitment. Conclusions: Both tutors and tutees benefited to some extent from this peer-tutoring process. Further studies in an education program for students in all years should be implemented to examine peer-tutoring effects. Implementation of peer tutoring should address the frustrations and difficulties encountered by the students to facilitate better outcomes. r

Nursing & Health Sciences, 2011

This study explored the meaning of "quality of life" among Chinese survivors of cervical cancer a... more This study explored the meaning of "quality of life" among Chinese survivors of cervical cancer and the impact of cervical cancer survivorship on these women's quality of life. Written responses were used as the means of data collection. The qualitative data were analyzed by using a qualitative content analysis. The meaning of "quality of life", as perceived by 35 Chinese survivors of cervical cancer, included being free of disease, having a good standard of living, having a harmonious family atmosphere, and having a harmonious sex life. The impact of cervical cancer on the Chinese women's quality of life included physical and psychological sequelae, family distress, financial burden, and disruptions to their social functioning and sexual life. Nevertheless, there were positive gains that were reported by these survivors, including changes in their outlook on life, treasuring their life, and better family relationships. This study revealed that the Chinese survivors of cervical cancer identified their sexual life as one of the essential indicators of quality of life. It is necessary to raise nurses' awareness so that women's sexuality-related concerns are addressed. Health professionals also should provide relevant supportive care in order to address this target population's physical and psychosocial needs across the survivorship continuum.

Journal of Emergency Management, 2013

A cross-sectional study among a convenience sample of nurses in China was conducted to understand... more A cross-sectional study among a convenience sample of nurses in China was conducted to understand the factors affecting Chinese nurses' willingness to report to work in a disaster. A total of 946 questionnaires were collected. Nearly 90 percent of nurses regarded disaster self-help information, an evacuation plan, and contingency measures a must in preparing for disaster care. Many nurses indicated willingness to work during a disaster that may threaten the safety of their family members than when there is a life-threatening infectious disease outbreak (83.6 and 69.6 percent, p = 0.000). Nurses with longer years of clinical experience were more willing to work in both situations (p = 0.014 and 0.000). Fear of contracting an infectious disease and spreading it to family members was a major factor for nurses' unwillingness to report to work. Hospital administrators should understand their workforce's willingness in reporting to work and provide appropriate disaster training and support to maximize workforce in a disaster.

Public Health Nursing, 2005

The objective of this study was to examine health-promoting behaviors and psychosocial well-being... more The objective of this study was to examine health-promoting behaviors and psychosocial well-being of university students in Hong Kong. A cross-sectional study was conducted using convenience sample (n = 247) of students recruited at various locations on campus. The Chinese version of the Health Promotion Lifestyle Profile II (HPLP-II; S. Walker, K. Sechrist, & N. Pender, 1995) was given to students as a questionnaire. Relatively few university students had a sense of "health responsibility" (6.5-27.1%), engaged in any form of physical activity (31.2%), or exercised regularly (13.8%). Less than half ate fruits (35.2%) and vegetables (48.9%) every day. Positive personal growth was reported by 50.6% of the students; 42.5% used stress-management skills and 74.1% rated their interpersonal relationships as meaningful and fulfilling. Students' scores on the health responsibility, nutritional habits, spiritual growth, interpersonal relations, or stress-management subscales of the HPLP-II did not differ significantly by gender, but males scored better than females (p = 0.001) on the physical exercise subscale. This study provides information on gender differences and specific needs of students which can help university administrators, curriculum planners, and community health professionals design guidelines for structuring a healthier environment and developing health education programs that support healthy choices among university students.

Public Health, 2008

Household smoking practices of parents have a major impact on the health of their young children.... more Household smoking practices of parents have a major impact on the health of their young children. This study examined the characteristics and household smoking practices of parents with children aged 4-5 years, and identified the predictive factors of poor household smoking practices among Chinese parents in Hong Kong. Cross-sectional survey. Smoking parents with young children from a 1997 birth cohort were re-contacted for a telephone interview to assess their household smoking practices. Among 1149 smoking parents from 1049 families, 898 (85.6%) parents smoked at home. Of these, 339 (37.8%) parents reported smoking at home but not near (i.e. within 3 metres) their children, and 559 (62.2%) reported that they smoked at home without any restrictions. Logistic regression revealed that the predictors of poor household smoking practices were: smoking mother [odds ratio (OR) 4.92, P<0.001]; children born with normal birth weight (OR 2.62, P<0.05); having more than one child (OR 1.70, P=0.01); being a daily smoker (OR 18.96, P<0.0001); smoking >or= 11 cigarettes per day (OR 3.10, P<0.0001); having a higher Fagerstorm nicotine dependence score (OR 4.57-4.86, P<0.01); and having a smoking partner (OR 2.78, P<0.05). A high proportion of smoking parents with young children display poor smoking practices at home. It is of the utmost importance that community education and smoking cessation services are targeted at these smoking parents to promote smoke-free families.

Oncology Nursing Forum, 2011

This material is protected by U.S. copyright law. To purchase quantity reprints, e-mail reprints@... more This material is protected by U.S. copyright law. To purchase quantity reprints, e-mail reprints@ons.org. For permission to reproduce multiple copies, e-mail pubpermissions@ons.org.

Nursing in Critical Care, 2005

A randomized controlled trial was conducted to compare the effectiveness of airflow- and waterflo... more A randomized controlled trial was conducted to compare the effectiveness of airflow- and waterflow-cooling blankets for febrile patients in intensive care unit. More patients in the airflow than in the waterflow-cooling blanket group reached the desired temperature of <38 degrees C at the end of 8h (94.1 versus 60.0%, chi2=2.86, P=0.047). Patients in the airflow blanket group also took less time than those in the waterflow blanket group to achieve the desired temperature (3.1 and 5.7h, respectively, U=2.00, P<0.001). These findings suggest that the airflow blanket is the cooling blanket of choice for febrile patients when external cooling is needed.

Maternal and Child Health Journal, 2012

This is an exploratory study to identify the predictors that Chinese men will spontaneously quit ... more This is an exploratory study to identify the predictors that Chinese men will spontaneously quit smoking during their wives' pregnancy. Smoking husbands who accompanied their non-smoking pregnant wives to an antenatal clinic were invited to complete a questionnaire soliciting information regarding their smoking behaviours, perceptions of support received from their wives, and motivating factors for quitting smoking. A total of 74 men were recruited. Two-thirds (67.6%) were daily smokers, had started smoking under the age of 18 (66.2%), and smoked 6-15 cigarettes (48.6%) a day. Nearly one-third of the smoking husbands (n = 50, 67.6%) reported that their wife was the person who provided them with the necessary main support in quitting. Nearly a quarter (18 out of 74, 24.3%) of the husbands indicated that they quit smoking during their wives' pregnancy. Those more likely to quit were the 'occasional smokers' (61.1% vs. 38.9%), those who craved cigarettes a few hours after getting up (0% vs. 100%), those who were confident in their ability to quit (77.8% vs. 22.2%), and those who had previously attempted to quit (88.9% vs. 11.1%). The level of negative support from wives to quit smoking was significantly related to men's quitting (55.6% vs. 44.4%). The results of this study identified the husbands most likely to spontaneously quit smoking during their wives' pregnancy as those who were occasional smokers, were confident about smoking cessation, and reported their wives as being bothered by smoke.

Journal of Clinical Nursing, 2009

To investigate nursing students' knowledge, attitude and readiness to work for cl... more To investigate nursing students' knowledge, attitude and readiness to work for clients with sexual health concerns and to identify strategies to help students develop as they take up their role in sexual health-related care. There is an increasing global demand for improving sexual health. A better understanding of nursing students' attitude and readiness to work for clients with sexual health concerns is the beginning of this endeavour. The need to explore strategies for developing competent health care practitioners is timely. A cross-sectional survey. Nursing students (n = 377) studying in pre- and post-registration programmes were surveyed at a university in Hong Kong using a questionnaire with open- and closed-ended questions about their knowledge, attitude and self-perception on readiness to work for clients with sexual health concerns. Students' knowledge of sexual health was satisfactory. They were positive in acknowledging the nursing role in sexual health care, but hesitant in taking up an active role in practice. Students' readiness to participate in related activities was below satisfactory. Their perception of inadequate knowledge, feelings of anxiety, worries about colleagues' and clients' possible adverse responses and inadequate exemplars were major factors affecting their readiness. This paper also highlighted some important learning areas and strategies that could help in enhancing students' knowledge and confidence in sexual health care practices. Improving the educational programme and clinical practice for nursing students is necessary but may not be adequate. Valuing the affective aspect of education, formal recognition of this extended role and advancing related education to a post-experience level would also benefit the development of sexual health care. Preparing more mentors as exemplars, inviting clinicians and managers as partners in sexual health-related care would help nursing students to work efficiently for clients with sexual health concerns.

Journal of Clinical Nursing, 2011

This study was to describe and compare the health concerns, behaviours and anxiety of advanced ag... more This study was to describe and compare the health concerns, behaviours and anxiety of advanced age pregnant women (35 years and older) with their younger counterparts. Women have specific health concerns and behaviours during pregnancy. Delayed childbearing has an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes and advanced age pregnant women may have more health concerns than younger ones. A cross-sectional study. Primigravidae Chinese women aged 35 or older (n = 47) and 188 younger than aged 35 were recruited in February and March of 2005 by convenient sampling from the antenatal clinic of a regional hospital in Hong Kong to complete a questionnaire. Advanced age pregnant women when compared with their counterparts were more likely to have tertiary education (42·6% vs. 28·7%) and a higher family monthly income of Hong Kong $40,001 or more (40·5% vs. 15·4%). They were more likely to be concerned the possibility of miscarriage (63·8% vs. 45·9%) and the physical demands of caring for the newborn (61·7% vs. 45·4%) but were more likely to take up healthy behaviours such as 'eating nutritious food' (100%) and avoiding 'wearing tight clothing and high-heel shoes'(100%). Advanced age women were more likely to be concerned about their 'recovery after childbirth' (63·8% vs. 42·7%), Down's syndrome (70·2% vs. 37·8%) and structural defects of their foetus (78·7% vs. 54·1%). The results of this study provide a background for improving prenatal care catering for the specific health concerns of the advanced aged and promotion of health behaviours among younger pregnant women. Antenatal, obstetric and community health nurses have the responsibility to provide education and support services catering to the special concerns of pregnant women at different ages. Health professionals should promote the prime time for childbearing and deliver messages regarding the potential problems associated with later childbearing at premarital counselling.

Journal of Clinical Nursing, 2009

The aims of the study were to identify nurses' perception of disaster, whether th... more The aims of the study were to identify nurses' perception of disaster, whether they considered some of the events that have occurred in Hong Kong to be disasters and the types of disastrous events that they considered likely in Hong Kong. The frequent occurrence of disasters has caused concern internationally. When disaster strikes, the demands on nursing staff are much higher than those on other healthcare professionals. There is little understanding of the concept of disaster among nurses in Hong Kong. This was a descriptive study. A questionnaire was used to explore nurses' perception of disaster. The questionnaire was distributed to all registered nurses studying in a master's degree programme in a university in Hong Kong. Only 123 out of the 164 respondents (75%) gave a description of disaster in the open-ended question. Sixty-one per cent of them described unfortunate events with large numbers of victims as disasters. The 'Lan Kwai Fong tragedy--stampede caused by over-crowdedness' (90.9%) and the severe acute respiratory syndrome outbreak (89.6%) were commonly referred to as disasters in Hong Kong. Fires in tall buildings (61.6%), infectious disease outbreaks (61%) and stampedes caused by overcrowding (48.8%) were rated as the events most likely to happen in Hong Kong. Understanding how nurses perceive disaster and the likelihood of disastrous events is the initial step for disaster planning and the development of a disaster nursing curriculum in Hong Kong. All nurses around the world should be equipped with knowledge and skills for disaster care. This study provides information and implications for related research and the development of a disaster nursing curriculum to meet the global demand for disaster preparedness.

Journal of Clinical Nursing, 2011

Journal of Clinical Nursing, 2010

Aims. To examine the lifestyle behaviours and psychosocial well-being of primary school students ... more Aims. To examine the lifestyle behaviours and psychosocial well-being of primary school students in Hong Kong. Background. The establishment of healthy lifestyle habits and maintenance of psychosocial well-being during early adolescence can prevent the morbidity and mortality caused by unhealthy practices. Design. A cross-sectional study. Methods. A questionnaire was used to solicit information on primary school students' lifestyle behaviours and psychosocial well-being using the Chinese version of the Adolescent Lifestyle Questionnaire (C-ALQ). Results. Out of 249 primary school students, 241 returned their questionnaires (a response rate of 96AE8%). Results on the lifestyle behaviours of students indicated that nearly half of them 'play sports at least three times a week' (n = 111, 46AE1%), 'try not to eat foods high in fats/salt' (n = 112, 46AE5%), 'report unusual bodily changes to nurses, parents, friends or physician' (n = 136, 56AE4%) and 'avoid doing drugs' (n = 186, 77AE2%). Results for the psychosocial well-being of students showed that nearly half 'use helpful strategies to deal with stress' (n = 104, 43AE2%), are 'confident about [their] own beliefs and values in life' (n = 143, 59AE3%) and 'enjoy spending time with friends' (n = 169, 70AE1%). Male students were found less likely than females to demonstrate 'health awareness' (t =4 AE87, p =0 AE028) and 'social support' (t =4 AE17, p =0 AE042) and to have better overall psychosocial well-being (t =5 AE43, p =0 AE021). Conclusions. Primary school students have various health education needs related to lifestyle behavioural choices and the maintenance of psychosocial well-being. Lifestyle choices are formed in early adolescence; therefore, health education must begin as early as possible to influence healthy behaviours. Relevance to clinical practice. School nurses should assess health needs across the school-age population and develop programmes to address these overall needs. School nurses are needed to cater for the needs of students, particularly boys, to establish health programmes for lifelong healthy lifestyles and psychosocial well-being and to monitor their health status.

Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy, 2015

The purpose of this systematic review is to explore the types, content, and outcomes of different... more The purpose of this systematic review is to explore the types, content, and outcomes of different psychosocial approaches used in existing interventions for infertile individuals or couples. Relevant intervention studies published in English between 2000 and 2014 were searched using the electronic databases MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and CINHAL Plus. A total of 23 articles were identified and included in this review. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and counseling were the most commonly adopted psychosocial interventions for infertile individuals or couples. After reviewing the various approaches, directions are given on the development of interventions for couples suffering from infertility.

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2015

Psycho-oncology, Jan 23, 2015

Guided by the Preliminary Live with Love Conceptual Framework (P-LLCF) for Cancer Couple Dyads, a... more Guided by the Preliminary Live with Love Conceptual Framework (P-LLCF) for Cancer Couple Dyads, a Caring for Couples Coping with Cancer (4Cs) program was developed to support couples coping with cancer as a unit. This study examined the acceptability, feasibility, and the preliminary effect of the 4Cs program. A pre- and post-intervention study design with no control group was conducted among Chinese cancer patients and their spousal caregivers. Among the 135 couples approached, a total of 117 dyads were successfully recruited at baseline, with 92 dyads successfully followed-up at 6 weeks. Outcome measures, including dyadic mediators (self-efficacy), dyadic appraisal (Cancer Related Communication Problem, CRCP), dyadic coping (Dyadic Coping Inventory, DCI), and dyadic outcomes (physical and mental health, negative and positive emotions, and marital satisfaction), were assessed at T0 (pre-intervention) and T1 (post-intervention). Repeated measures analysis of variance was applied in ...

Substance abuse treatment, prevention, and policy, 2014

Substance use among adolescents has caused worldwide public health concern in recent years. Overs... more Substance use among adolescents has caused worldwide public health concern in recent years. Overseas studies have demonstrated an association between adolescent self-esteem and substance use, but studies within a Chinese context are limited. A study was therefore initiated to: (1) explore the 30 days prevalence of substance use (smoking, drinking, and drugs) among male and female adolescents in Hong Kong; (2) identify the significant associations between multidimensional self-esteem and gender; and (3) examine the relationship between multi-dimensional self-esteem and substance use. A self-esteem scale and the Chinese version of the global school-based student health survey were adopted. A total of 1,223 students were recruited from two mixed-gender schools and one boys' school. Among females, there was a lower 30-day prevalence of cigarette, alcohol, and drug use. They also had significantly higher peer and family self-esteem but lower sport-related self-esteem. Body image self...

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2015

In this case-control study the association between the approaches used to feed infants, together ... more In this case-control study the association between the approaches used to feed infants, together with known family and environmental factors, and the occurrence of atopic illness in toddlers between the ages of 4 months to 3 years in Hong Kong was examined. A total of 206 subjects were recruited from April to June of 2014. The results obtained by binary logistic regression indicated that atopy is associated with boys (OR 2.072, CI 1.089-3.941), the maternal use of antibiotics in utero or while breast feeding (OR 2.276, CI 1.151-4.504), the later commencement of mixed feeding (OR 2.497, CI 1.025-6.082), breast feeding exclusively for 3 months (OR 1.972, CI 1.009-3.857), and having a mother who was diagnosed with eczema (OR 4.510, CI 1.764-11.530). Although an exclusive reliance on breast feeding has been shown to be predictive of atopy among toddlers, the positive qualities of breast milk cannot be ignored. A further study of the contents and nutritional values of breast milk is warranted.

The Journal of nursing education, 1997

This study adopted an action research approach in addressing the question: How could nurses be pr... more This study adopted an action research approach in addressing the question: How could nurses be prepared to be reflective practitioners? The study took place among a group of registered nurses who enrolled in the first year of their degree studies at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. The methods of data collection included observation, interview, students' written material, and teacher reflection. The experience of this study suggested that teachers and students should be partners in the promotion of reflective learning among students. As teachers reflected on their teaching arrangement and the progress of student learning, students could accordingly be offered appropriate guidance. Throughout the span of their studies, students learned to gradually develop different perspectives in viewing professional nursing practice. The reconceptualization of nursing practice helped students challenge taken-for-granted views and eventually reconstruct their conception of nursing.

International Journal of Nursing Studies, 2007

Background: Peer tutoring involves students helping each other to learn. It places teaching and l... more Background: Peer tutoring involves students helping each other to learn. It places teaching and learning commitments and responsibilities on students. Considerable evidence supports the positive effects of peer tutoring, including cognitive gains, improved communication, self-confidence, and social support among students. Peer tutors are also said to better understand the learning problems of fellow peer learners than teachers do. Objective: This study intended to facilitate the development of 'cooperative learning' among nursing students through a peer-tutoring scheme. Study method: Undergraduate nursing students were invited to join a peer-tutoring scheme. Fourteen students studying year 3 were recruited to serve as peer tutors and 16 students from year 2 of the same program participated as tutees. Peer tutors attended a training workshop and received a guideline for peer-tutoring activities. They were to provide a total of '10 weekly tutoring sessions throughout the semester on a one-to-one basis for their tutees. Focus groups and individual interviews were conducted in the middle and at the end of the semester to evaluate the students' experiences in the tutoring process. Results: Content analysis of the interview scripts identified that students had both positive and negative experiences from the peer tutoring, but that positive experiences predominated. Positive aspects included enhancement of learning skills/intellectual gains and personal growth. Negative experiences stemmed mainly from frustrations in dealing with mismatched learning styles between tutors and tutees, and the required time commitment. Conclusions: Both tutors and tutees benefited to some extent from this peer-tutoring process. Further studies in an education program for students in all years should be implemented to examine peer-tutoring effects. Implementation of peer tutoring should address the frustrations and difficulties encountered by the students to facilitate better outcomes. r

Nursing & Health Sciences, 2011

This study explored the meaning of "quality of life" among Chinese survivors of cervical cancer a... more This study explored the meaning of "quality of life" among Chinese survivors of cervical cancer and the impact of cervical cancer survivorship on these women's quality of life. Written responses were used as the means of data collection. The qualitative data were analyzed by using a qualitative content analysis. The meaning of "quality of life", as perceived by 35 Chinese survivors of cervical cancer, included being free of disease, having a good standard of living, having a harmonious family atmosphere, and having a harmonious sex life. The impact of cervical cancer on the Chinese women's quality of life included physical and psychological sequelae, family distress, financial burden, and disruptions to their social functioning and sexual life. Nevertheless, there were positive gains that were reported by these survivors, including changes in their outlook on life, treasuring their life, and better family relationships. This study revealed that the Chinese survivors of cervical cancer identified their sexual life as one of the essential indicators of quality of life. It is necessary to raise nurses' awareness so that women's sexuality-related concerns are addressed. Health professionals also should provide relevant supportive care in order to address this target population's physical and psychosocial needs across the survivorship continuum.

Journal of Emergency Management, 2013

A cross-sectional study among a convenience sample of nurses in China was conducted to understand... more A cross-sectional study among a convenience sample of nurses in China was conducted to understand the factors affecting Chinese nurses' willingness to report to work in a disaster. A total of 946 questionnaires were collected. Nearly 90 percent of nurses regarded disaster self-help information, an evacuation plan, and contingency measures a must in preparing for disaster care. Many nurses indicated willingness to work during a disaster that may threaten the safety of their family members than when there is a life-threatening infectious disease outbreak (83.6 and 69.6 percent, p = 0.000). Nurses with longer years of clinical experience were more willing to work in both situations (p = 0.014 and 0.000). Fear of contracting an infectious disease and spreading it to family members was a major factor for nurses' unwillingness to report to work. Hospital administrators should understand their workforce's willingness in reporting to work and provide appropriate disaster training and support to maximize workforce in a disaster.

Public Health Nursing, 2005

The objective of this study was to examine health-promoting behaviors and psychosocial well-being... more The objective of this study was to examine health-promoting behaviors and psychosocial well-being of university students in Hong Kong. A cross-sectional study was conducted using convenience sample (n = 247) of students recruited at various locations on campus. The Chinese version of the Health Promotion Lifestyle Profile II (HPLP-II; S. Walker, K. Sechrist, & N. Pender, 1995) was given to students as a questionnaire. Relatively few university students had a sense of "health responsibility" (6.5-27.1%), engaged in any form of physical activity (31.2%), or exercised regularly (13.8%). Less than half ate fruits (35.2%) and vegetables (48.9%) every day. Positive personal growth was reported by 50.6% of the students; 42.5% used stress-management skills and 74.1% rated their interpersonal relationships as meaningful and fulfilling. Students' scores on the health responsibility, nutritional habits, spiritual growth, interpersonal relations, or stress-management subscales of the HPLP-II did not differ significantly by gender, but males scored better than females (p = 0.001) on the physical exercise subscale. This study provides information on gender differences and specific needs of students which can help university administrators, curriculum planners, and community health professionals design guidelines for structuring a healthier environment and developing health education programs that support healthy choices among university students.

Public Health, 2008

Household smoking practices of parents have a major impact on the health of their young children.... more Household smoking practices of parents have a major impact on the health of their young children. This study examined the characteristics and household smoking practices of parents with children aged 4-5 years, and identified the predictive factors of poor household smoking practices among Chinese parents in Hong Kong. Cross-sectional survey. Smoking parents with young children from a 1997 birth cohort were re-contacted for a telephone interview to assess their household smoking practices. Among 1149 smoking parents from 1049 families, 898 (85.6%) parents smoked at home. Of these, 339 (37.8%) parents reported smoking at home but not near (i.e. within 3 metres) their children, and 559 (62.2%) reported that they smoked at home without any restrictions. Logistic regression revealed that the predictors of poor household smoking practices were: smoking mother [odds ratio (OR) 4.92, P<0.001]; children born with normal birth weight (OR 2.62, P<0.05); having more than one child (OR 1.70, P=0.01); being a daily smoker (OR 18.96, P<0.0001); smoking >or= 11 cigarettes per day (OR 3.10, P<0.0001); having a higher Fagerstorm nicotine dependence score (OR 4.57-4.86, P<0.01); and having a smoking partner (OR 2.78, P<0.05). A high proportion of smoking parents with young children display poor smoking practices at home. It is of the utmost importance that community education and smoking cessation services are targeted at these smoking parents to promote smoke-free families.

Oncology Nursing Forum, 2011

This material is protected by U.S. copyright law. To purchase quantity reprints, e-mail reprints@... more This material is protected by U.S. copyright law. To purchase quantity reprints, e-mail reprints@ons.org. For permission to reproduce multiple copies, e-mail pubpermissions@ons.org.

Nursing in Critical Care, 2005

A randomized controlled trial was conducted to compare the effectiveness of airflow- and waterflo... more A randomized controlled trial was conducted to compare the effectiveness of airflow- and waterflow-cooling blankets for febrile patients in intensive care unit. More patients in the airflow than in the waterflow-cooling blanket group reached the desired temperature of <38 degrees C at the end of 8h (94.1 versus 60.0%, chi2=2.86, P=0.047). Patients in the airflow blanket group also took less time than those in the waterflow blanket group to achieve the desired temperature (3.1 and 5.7h, respectively, U=2.00, P<0.001). These findings suggest that the airflow blanket is the cooling blanket of choice for febrile patients when external cooling is needed.

Maternal and Child Health Journal, 2012

This is an exploratory study to identify the predictors that Chinese men will spontaneously quit ... more This is an exploratory study to identify the predictors that Chinese men will spontaneously quit smoking during their wives' pregnancy. Smoking husbands who accompanied their non-smoking pregnant wives to an antenatal clinic were invited to complete a questionnaire soliciting information regarding their smoking behaviours, perceptions of support received from their wives, and motivating factors for quitting smoking. A total of 74 men were recruited. Two-thirds (67.6%) were daily smokers, had started smoking under the age of 18 (66.2%), and smoked 6-15 cigarettes (48.6%) a day. Nearly one-third of the smoking husbands (n = 50, 67.6%) reported that their wife was the person who provided them with the necessary main support in quitting. Nearly a quarter (18 out of 74, 24.3%) of the husbands indicated that they quit smoking during their wives' pregnancy. Those more likely to quit were the 'occasional smokers' (61.1% vs. 38.9%), those who craved cigarettes a few hours after getting up (0% vs. 100%), those who were confident in their ability to quit (77.8% vs. 22.2%), and those who had previously attempted to quit (88.9% vs. 11.1%). The level of negative support from wives to quit smoking was significantly related to men's quitting (55.6% vs. 44.4%). The results of this study identified the husbands most likely to spontaneously quit smoking during their wives' pregnancy as those who were occasional smokers, were confident about smoking cessation, and reported their wives as being bothered by smoke.

Journal of Clinical Nursing, 2009

To investigate nursing students' knowledge, attitude and readiness to work for cl... more To investigate nursing students' knowledge, attitude and readiness to work for clients with sexual health concerns and to identify strategies to help students develop as they take up their role in sexual health-related care. There is an increasing global demand for improving sexual health. A better understanding of nursing students' attitude and readiness to work for clients with sexual health concerns is the beginning of this endeavour. The need to explore strategies for developing competent health care practitioners is timely. A cross-sectional survey. Nursing students (n = 377) studying in pre- and post-registration programmes were surveyed at a university in Hong Kong using a questionnaire with open- and closed-ended questions about their knowledge, attitude and self-perception on readiness to work for clients with sexual health concerns. Students' knowledge of sexual health was satisfactory. They were positive in acknowledging the nursing role in sexual health care, but hesitant in taking up an active role in practice. Students' readiness to participate in related activities was below satisfactory. Their perception of inadequate knowledge, feelings of anxiety, worries about colleagues' and clients' possible adverse responses and inadequate exemplars were major factors affecting their readiness. This paper also highlighted some important learning areas and strategies that could help in enhancing students' knowledge and confidence in sexual health care practices. Improving the educational programme and clinical practice for nursing students is necessary but may not be adequate. Valuing the affective aspect of education, formal recognition of this extended role and advancing related education to a post-experience level would also benefit the development of sexual health care. Preparing more mentors as exemplars, inviting clinicians and managers as partners in sexual health-related care would help nursing students to work efficiently for clients with sexual health concerns.

Journal of Clinical Nursing, 2011

This study was to describe and compare the health concerns, behaviours and anxiety of advanced ag... more This study was to describe and compare the health concerns, behaviours and anxiety of advanced age pregnant women (35 years and older) with their younger counterparts. Women have specific health concerns and behaviours during pregnancy. Delayed childbearing has an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes and advanced age pregnant women may have more health concerns than younger ones. A cross-sectional study. Primigravidae Chinese women aged 35 or older (n = 47) and 188 younger than aged 35 were recruited in February and March of 2005 by convenient sampling from the antenatal clinic of a regional hospital in Hong Kong to complete a questionnaire. Advanced age pregnant women when compared with their counterparts were more likely to have tertiary education (42·6% vs. 28·7%) and a higher family monthly income of Hong Kong $40,001 or more (40·5% vs. 15·4%). They were more likely to be concerned the possibility of miscarriage (63·8% vs. 45·9%) and the physical demands of caring for the newborn (61·7% vs. 45·4%) but were more likely to take up healthy behaviours such as 'eating nutritious food' (100%) and avoiding 'wearing tight clothing and high-heel shoes'(100%). Advanced age women were more likely to be concerned about their 'recovery after childbirth' (63·8% vs. 42·7%), Down's syndrome (70·2% vs. 37·8%) and structural defects of their foetus (78·7% vs. 54·1%). The results of this study provide a background for improving prenatal care catering for the specific health concerns of the advanced aged and promotion of health behaviours among younger pregnant women. Antenatal, obstetric and community health nurses have the responsibility to provide education and support services catering to the special concerns of pregnant women at different ages. Health professionals should promote the prime time for childbearing and deliver messages regarding the potential problems associated with later childbearing at premarital counselling.

Journal of Clinical Nursing, 2009

The aims of the study were to identify nurses' perception of disaster, whether th... more The aims of the study were to identify nurses' perception of disaster, whether they considered some of the events that have occurred in Hong Kong to be disasters and the types of disastrous events that they considered likely in Hong Kong. The frequent occurrence of disasters has caused concern internationally. When disaster strikes, the demands on nursing staff are much higher than those on other healthcare professionals. There is little understanding of the concept of disaster among nurses in Hong Kong. This was a descriptive study. A questionnaire was used to explore nurses' perception of disaster. The questionnaire was distributed to all registered nurses studying in a master's degree programme in a university in Hong Kong. Only 123 out of the 164 respondents (75%) gave a description of disaster in the open-ended question. Sixty-one per cent of them described unfortunate events with large numbers of victims as disasters. The 'Lan Kwai Fong tragedy--stampede caused by over-crowdedness' (90.9%) and the severe acute respiratory syndrome outbreak (89.6%) were commonly referred to as disasters in Hong Kong. Fires in tall buildings (61.6%), infectious disease outbreaks (61%) and stampedes caused by overcrowding (48.8%) were rated as the events most likely to happen in Hong Kong. Understanding how nurses perceive disaster and the likelihood of disastrous events is the initial step for disaster planning and the development of a disaster nursing curriculum in Hong Kong. All nurses around the world should be equipped with knowledge and skills for disaster care. This study provides information and implications for related research and the development of a disaster nursing curriculum to meet the global demand for disaster preparedness.

Journal of Clinical Nursing, 2011

Journal of Clinical Nursing, 2010

Aims. To examine the lifestyle behaviours and psychosocial well-being of primary school students ... more Aims. To examine the lifestyle behaviours and psychosocial well-being of primary school students in Hong Kong. Background. The establishment of healthy lifestyle habits and maintenance of psychosocial well-being during early adolescence can prevent the morbidity and mortality caused by unhealthy practices. Design. A cross-sectional study. Methods. A questionnaire was used to solicit information on primary school students' lifestyle behaviours and psychosocial well-being using the Chinese version of the Adolescent Lifestyle Questionnaire (C-ALQ). Results. Out of 249 primary school students, 241 returned their questionnaires (a response rate of 96AE8%). Results on the lifestyle behaviours of students indicated that nearly half of them 'play sports at least three times a week' (n = 111, 46AE1%), 'try not to eat foods high in fats/salt' (n = 112, 46AE5%), 'report unusual bodily changes to nurses, parents, friends or physician' (n = 136, 56AE4%) and 'avoid doing drugs' (n = 186, 77AE2%). Results for the psychosocial well-being of students showed that nearly half 'use helpful strategies to deal with stress' (n = 104, 43AE2%), are 'confident about [their] own beliefs and values in life' (n = 143, 59AE3%) and 'enjoy spending time with friends' (n = 169, 70AE1%). Male students were found less likely than females to demonstrate 'health awareness' (t =4 AE87, p =0 AE028) and 'social support' (t =4 AE17, p =0 AE042) and to have better overall psychosocial well-being (t =5 AE43, p =0 AE021). Conclusions. Primary school students have various health education needs related to lifestyle behavioural choices and the maintenance of psychosocial well-being. Lifestyle choices are formed in early adolescence; therefore, health education must begin as early as possible to influence healthy behaviours. Relevance to clinical practice. School nurses should assess health needs across the school-age population and develop programmes to address these overall needs. School nurses are needed to cater for the needs of students, particularly boys, to establish health programmes for lifelong healthy lifestyles and psychosocial well-being and to monitor their health status.