JAMMU: In a captivating online interview conducted by Ajmer Alam Wani, Editor-in-Chief of JK Monitor (www.jkmonitor.org), Ms. Asmat Parveen, Associate Professor cum Principal at Syed Mantaqi Memorial College of Nursing and Medical Technology (SMMCN&MT IUST) and PhD Scholar at Maharishi Markandeshwar University, discussed her groundbreaking research project and shared insights into the challenges and innovations in nursing education. Miss Asmat Parveen has been awarded project on “Comparison of Respiratory Health OF Brick Killin worker and Local inhabitants with general population of Kashmir valley” by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
RESEARCH OBJECTIVES AND HYPOTHESES: Ms. Asmat elaborated on the objectives of her research project, "Comparison of Respiratory Health of Brick Kiln Workers and Local Inhabitants with the General Population of Kashmir Valley." She outlined the crucial objectives, including determining patterns of chronic respiratory illnesses, evaluating impacts on specific population groups, investigating sociodemographic associations, and comparing respiratory health across different populations. These objectives aim to shed light on the complex interplay between environmental factors, occupational hazards, and respiratory health in Kashmir.
ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS AND SAFETY: Addressing the ethical considerations and safety of participants, especially concerning respiratory health among brick kiln workers, Ms. Asmat highlighted the importance of ethical clearance and informed consent. She emphasized the significance of understanding the impact of air pollution on respiratory infections, particularly in regions with high pollution levels, to inform targeted interventions and public health policies.
CONTROLLING CONFOUNDING VARIABLES: Regarding controlling confounding variables in the study, Ms. Asmat discussed the study design's cross-sectional prevalence approach, random district selection, and non-interventional stance. These strategies ensure control for confounding variables such as pollution levels, occupational hazards, and lifestyle differences, providing robust insights into respiratory health disparities.
BALANCING ROLES AND STRATEGIES: As an experienced educator and researcher, Ms. Asmat shared strategies for balancing her roles as Principal of SMMCN&MT and leading a significant research project. She emphasized delegation, time blocking, prioritization, collaboration, flexibility, and self-care as key strategies to ensure both responsibilities receive adequate attention and excellence.
CHALLENGES FACED BY NURSING PROFESSIONALS: Ms. Asmat discussed the challenges faced by nursing professionals in Jammu and Kashmir, focusing on employment opportunities, recognition, and disparities in pay and promotion. She advocated for policy-level changes to address these challenges, emphasizing the critical role of nursing professionals in healthcare delivery.
EDUCATIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS AND PATIENT CARE: Reflecting on her diverse educational achievements, Ms. Asmat shared insights into how they influence her approach to nursing education and patient care. She highlighted the importance of lifelong learning, a holistic view of health, technology integration, interdisciplinary collaboration, and evidence-based practice in nursing education and patient care.
INNOVATIVE TEACHING METHODOLOGIES: Discussing innovative teaching methodologies at SMMCN&MT, Ms. Asmat mentioned simulation-based learning, interprofessional education, flipped classroom approach, technology integration, clinical immersion experiences, and emphasis on research and evidence-based practice. These methodologies enhance student learning and prepare future nursing professionals for the dynamic healthcare landscape.
PASSIONATE AREAS OF RESEARCH: As a PhD scholar, Ms. Asmat expressed passion for exploring areas such as technology in patient care, nursing leadership and management, and promoting health equity. She envisioned her doctoral work contributing to advancements in nursing practice, education, and improving healthcare outcomes.
ADVICE TO ASPIRING NURSING STUDENTS: Ms. Asmat offered valuable advice to aspiring nursing students, emphasizing education, empathy, resilience, diversity, advocacy, evidence-based practice, collaboration, and community engagement as key principles to thrive in their careers and make meaningful contributions to healthcare.
In conclusion, Ms. Asmat Parveen's insights and expertise underscore the vital role of nursing professionals in addressing healthcare challenges and advancing patient care. Her research and leadership exemplify a commitment to excellence, innovation, and advocacy within the nursing profession.
For the detailed interview read questions and detailed answers below till end.
1. Ms. Asmat can you elaborate on the specific objectives of your research project on "Comparison of Respiratory Health OF Brick Kiln Workers and Local Inhabitants with the General Population of Kashmir Valley"? What are the key hypotheses you aim to test?
Ans: Study objectives are crucial for shedding light on the complex interplay between environmental factors, occupational hazards, and respiratory health in Kashmir. Let's delve deeper into the broader implications and significance of each objective:
- Determining Patterns and Prevalence of Chronic Respiratory Illnesses and Lung Function among Kashmiri Adults:
- This objective not only provides insights into the current burden of chronic respiratory illnesses but also lays the groundwork for future interventions and healthcare planning. Understanding the prevalence and patterns of these diseases among adults in Kashmir is essential for targeted healthcare delivery and resource allocation.
- Evaluating Patterns and Prevalence among Brick Kiln Workers & Local Inhabitants:
- By focusing on Brick Kiln workers and local inhabitants, this objective highlights the differential impact of occupational and environmental exposures on respiratory health. It underscores the urgency of addressing occupational health hazards and implementing measures to mitigate air pollution in brick kiln areas.
- Investigating Sociodemographic Associations with Chronic Respiratory Illnesses:
- This objective goes beyond identifying vulnerable populations; it aims to uncover the underlying socio-economic determinants of respiratory health disparities. By understanding the sociodemographic factors associated with chronic respiratory illnesses, interventions can be tailored to address root causes and promote health equity.
- Comparing Respiratory Health across Different Population Groups:
- The comparative analysis across various population groups offers valuable insights into the differential impact of air pollution on respiratory health. This comparison not only informs targeted interventions but also underscores the need for holistic approaches that address both occupational and environmental factors contributing to respiratory diseases.
Overall, your research is poised to make significant contributions to public health in Kashmir by addressing gaps in knowledge and informing evidence-based interventions. By elucidating the intricate relationships between air pollution, occupational exposures, and respiratory health outcomes, your study has the potential to catalyse policy changes and regulatory measures aimed at safeguarding respiratory health in the region.
2. How do you plan to ensure the ethical considerations and safety of participants in your research, especially considering the potential health risks involved in studying respiratory health among brick kiln workers?
Ans: The proposed study not only addresses the urgent need to understand the impact of air pollution on respiratory health but also delves into its potential implications for susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection. By investigating the association between air pollution exposure and respiratory infections among adults residing in areas with varying pollution levels, your research aims to elucidate how environmental factors may influence our ability to combat infections.
Respiratory infections pose a significant public health burden, particularly in regions with high levels of air pollution. This study seeks to bridge this gap by examining how exposure to outdoor pollutants may compromise the body's immune response, potentially exacerbating the severity of respiratory infections such as those caused by SARS-CoV-2.
Through the collection of comprehensive data from participants residing in highly, moderately, and less polluted areas, our research has the potential to inform targeted interventions and public health policies aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of air pollution on respiratory health. By elucidating the link between air pollution and respiratory infections, the findings can guide community education efforts to minimize exposure to specific pollutants and protect against severe respiratory illnesses.
While ethical clearance from the Institutional Ethics Committee (IEC) of IUST ensures adherence to ethical standards, obtaining informed consent from participants further underscores your commitment to respecting their autonomy and ensuring their welfare.
In summary, our study represents a vital contribution to our understanding of the complex relationship between air pollution and respiratory health, with implications for both individual health outcomes and broader public health interventions. By shedding light on this critical issue, our research has the potential to inform evidence-based strategies for safeguarding respiratory health and improving air quality regulations.
4. Given the unique socio-economic and environmental factors in Kashmir Valley, how do you intend to control confounding variables that may impact your study's outcomes, such as pollution levels, occupational hazards, and lifestyle differences?
Ans: Our study design entails a cross-sectional prevalence approach, focusing on the ten districts within the Kashmir Division. Random selection will identify districts The general population sampling will be according to the prevalence of respiratory symptoms, ensuring control for confounding variables. It's noteworthy that this study adopts a non-interventional stance, focusing exclusively on the assessment of respiratory illnesses.
5. As an experienced educator and researcher, how do you balance your roles as Principal of SMMCN&MT and leading a significant research project? What strategies do you employ to ensure both responsibilities receive adequate attention and excellence?
Ans: We face lot of challenges, but we at IUST, believe in hard work, dedication, perseverance and constant efforts that we put in research, as well as in academics. This credit goes to our HVC Professor Shakeel Ahamad Ramshoo, Dean Academic Professor Ayaz Moon, Dean Health Professor Ayub qadri, Dean Research Professor Sheikh Javaid, faculty of IUST and Nursing faculty, from whom we are inspired. Balancing the roles of Principal of SMMCN&MT and leading a significant research project requires careful planning, prioritization, and effective time management. To ensure that both responsibilities receive adequate attention and excellence, I employ several strategies:
- Delegation: Delegating tasks and responsibilities to capable faculty members and staff members allows me to focus on high-priority activities, such as strategic planning, curriculum development, and research oversight. By entrusting others with specific tasks, I can allocate my time and energy more efficiently.
- Time Blocking: I utilize time blocking techniques to allocate dedicated time slots for administrative duties, research-related activities, and personal commitments. By setting aside uninterrupted blocks of time for each responsibility, I can maintain focus and productivity without feeling overwhelmed by competing demands.
- Prioritization: I prioritize tasks and projects based on their urgency, importance, and impact. Critical administrative tasks, such as budget planning, accreditation processes, and student affairs, are addressed promptly, while research-related activities are scheduled around key milestones and deadlines.
- Collaboration: Collaboration is essential for both administrative leadership and research endeavours. I collaborate closely with faculty members, research team members, and external partners to leverage their expertise, share responsibilities, and achieve common goals. By fostering a collaborative environment, I can maximize the collective efforts of all stakeholders involved.
- Flexibility: Flexibility is key to managing multiple roles effectively. I remain adaptable and open to adjusting my schedule and priorities as needed to address emergent issues, accommodate unforeseen challenges, and seize new opportunities for growth and innovation.
- Self-Care: Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for sustaining productivity and well-being. I prioritize self-care activities, such as exercise, mindfulness, and time spent with family and friends, to recharge and rejuvenate. By taking care of my own physical and emotional health, I can perform more effectively in both my professional and personal roles.
- By implementing these strategies, I am able to balance my roles as Principal of SMMCN&MT and leading a significant research project while ensuring that both responsibilities receive the attention and excellence they deserve. Effective time management, delegation, collaboration, and self-care are essential components of this balancing act, allowing me to fulfill my professional obligations and pursue my passion for research with dedication and enthusiasm.
6. In your opinion, what are the major challenges faced by nursing professionals in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly concerning employment opportunities and recognition within the healthcare system? How can these challenges be effectively addressed at the policy level?
Ans: Nursing stands as one of the most revered professions worldwide, with nurses often being the unsung heroes at the forefront of healthcare, particularly during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite their indispensable role, nurses are frequently undervalued, underpaid, and burdened with burnout. It's imperative to recognize that nursing isn't merely a job; it's a noble calling, with nurses serving as the primary caregivers who provide round-the-clock care and emotional support to patients. This misconception that doctors are the cornerstone of healthcare neglects the pivotal role nurses play in patient care.
Nursing is a profession of continuous learning and specialization, requiring years of dedicated training and experience to excel in specialized fields like ICU, cardiac, neurosurgery, or oncology nursing. However, the scarcity of resources and the lack of recognition hinder the nurturing and recruitment of nursing professionals. The World Health Organization recommends three nurses per 1000 people, but in India, the ratio stands at 1.7, highlighting the urgent need for more nurses, around 4.3 million more nurses by 2024 to meet the WHO norms, especially in regions like Jammu and Kashmir.
The public health sector, in particular, requires a significant influx of nursing professionals to meet WHO standards and address the growing healthcare needs of the population. I urge the government to prioritize the recruitment and advertisement of eligible nursing professionals, acknowledging their critical role in healthcare delivery.
It is imperative that the Department of Health and Medical Education in Jammu and Kashmir embraces the designation of "nursing officer," in alignment with national standards. This shift not only acknowledges the professionalism and dedication of nurses but also cultivates a profound sense of pride and fulfilment among those aspiring to join the nursing profession.
Moreover, I urge the Jammu and Kashmir Government to address the disparities in pay and promotion within the nursing profession. Regardless of whether nursing professionals serve in universities, government medical colleges, or other public health sectors, it is crucial to eliminate these discrepancies and bring their promotion and pay grades in line with national standards. In addition, as Nursing are the professional council at UGC, it is imperative that nursing professionals receive equitable treatment in terms of pay and promotion, consistent with other disciplines and departments.
Just as UGC guidelines govern various academic and professional domains, J&K GOVT, and administration should equally apply to the nursing profession. Upholding these standards ensures fairness and parity across all sectors, fostering an environment where nursing professionals are valued and recognized for their indispensable contributions to the healthcare landscape. By doing so, the government will alleviate the mental anguish experienced by nursing professionals and attract more individuals to pursue this noble profession.
As nursing regulations and curricula are being standardized and approved at the national level, it is incumbent upon the Jammu and Kashmir administration to align its policies with these national standards. This step will not only elevate the status of nursing but also ensure that nurses are duly recognized and compensated for their invaluable contributions to healthcare delivery.
In conclusion, I implore the general public to view nursing not merely as a career choice but as a noble scientific pursuit dedicated to serving society, communities, and families. By investing in the recruitment and training of nursing professionals and fostering a culture of appreciation and respect for their work, we can collectively ensure access to quality healthcare for all segments of society.
7. Your academic journey reflects a diverse range of qualifications and experiences. How have these educational achievements influenced your approach to nursing education and patient care, especially in the context of evolving healthcare demands and technological advancements?
Ans: My academic journey has indeed been diverse, encompassing various qualifications and experiences that have greatly influenced my approach to nursing education and patient care, especially in the face of evolving healthcare demands and technological advancements. First and foremost, my educational background has instilled in me a deep appreciation for the importance of lifelong learning in nursing. With healthcare continually evolving, it's essential to stay abreast of new research, technologies, and best practices to provide the highest quality care to patients. My commitment to ongoing education is something I strive to impart to both my students and colleagues.
Moreover, my diverse educational experiences have equipped me with a broad skill set that allows me to adapt to different situations in the clinical setting. Whether it's drawing upon my knowledge of anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, or nursing theory, I am able to approach patient care from a holistic perspective, considering not only the physical but also the emotional and social aspects of health.
In the context of technological advancements, my academic background has taught me the importance of embracing innovation while also maintaining a human-centred approach to care. While technologies like electronic health records and telemedicine can streamline processes and improve efficiency, they must never replace the fundamental elements of nursing, such as empathy, compassion, and therapeutic communication.
Furthermore, my educational journey has emphasized the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration in healthcare. Nursing does not exist in a vacuum; it is part of a larger healthcare team comprising professionals from various disciplines. By fostering collaboration and communication among team members, we can ensure that patients receive comprehensive, coordinated care that addresses all their needs.
Overall, my academic journey has shaped my approach to nursing education and patient care by instilling in me a commitment to lifelong learning, a holistic view of health, a balance between technology and humanity, and a dedication to interdisciplinary collaboration. These principles guide me as I strive to provide the best possible care to my patients and educate the next generation of nurses to do the same.
8. Could you discuss any innovative teaching methodologies or programs implemented at SMMCN&MT to enhance student learning and prepare future nursing professionals for the dynamic healthcare landscape?
Ans: Certainly! At SMMCN&MT, we have implemented several innovative teaching methodologies and programs to enhance student learning and prepare future nursing professionals for the dynamic healthcare landscape.
Simulation-Based Learning: We utilize high-fidelity simulation technology to recreate realistic patient care scenarios in a controlled environment. This allows students to practice clinical skills, critical thinking, and decision-making in a safe setting before interacting with actual patients. Simulation-based learning enhances student confidence and competence, preparing them for real-world nursing practice.
Interprofessional Education (IPE): Recognizing the importance of collaboration in healthcare, we offer interprofessional education opportunities where nursing students collaborate with students from other healthcare disciplines, such as medicine, pharmacy, and allied health professions. Through interdisciplinary teamwork exercises, students learn to communicate effectively, understand each other's roles, and provide patient-centred care as part of a cohesive healthcare team.
Flipped Classroom Approach: In some courses, we employ a flipped classroom approach, where students engage with course materials, such as lectures and readings, outside of class, and use class time for active learning activities, discussions, and application of knowledge. This model promotes student-centred learning, encourages critical thinking, and fosters deeper understanding of complex concepts.
Technology Integration: We integrate various educational technologies, such as online learning platforms, virtual reality simulations, and mobile applications, into our curriculum to enhance student engagement and facilitate interactive learning experiences. Technology allows students to access resources anytime, anywhere, and encourages independent exploration and self-directed learning.
Clinical Immersion Experiences: We offer clinical immersion experiences where students spend extended periods in healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and community health centers, working alongside experienced nurses and healthcare professionals. These immersive experiences provide students with valuable hands-on learning opportunities, exposure to diverse patient populations, and a deeper understanding of the realities of nursing practice.
Research and Evidence-Based Practice: We emphasize the importance of research and evidence-based practice in nursing education. Students have the opportunity to engage in research projects, literature reviews, and evidence-based practice initiatives, allowing them to critically evaluate the latest research findings and apply evidence-based principles to improve patient outcomes.
These innovative teaching methodologies and programs at SMMCN&MT ensure that our nursing students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to excel in the dynamic healthcare landscape and make meaningful contributions to patient care.
9. As a PhD scholar, what specific areas within nursing and healthcare are you passionate about exploring in your research? How do you envision your doctoral work contributing to advancements in nursing practice or education?
Ans: As a PhD scholar in nursing, I am deeply passionate about exploring several specific areas within nursing and healthcare through my research. One area of particular interest to me is the intersection of technology and patient care. I am fascinated by the potential of emerging technologies, such as telehealth, wearable devices, and artificial intelligence, to transform healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes. My research seeks to investigate the implementation and impact of these technologies on nursing practice, patient experiences, and healthcare outcomes.
Additionally, I am interested in exploring the role of nursing leadership and management in driving quality improvement and organizational change within healthcare settings. Effective leadership and management are essential for creating environments that support nursing excellence, promote interprofessional collaboration, and ensure the delivery of high-quality, patient-centred care. My research aims to identify best practices in nursing leadership and management and explore strategies for developing and empowering nurse leaders to lead change and innovation in healthcare.
Furthermore, I am passionate about promoting health equity and addressing disparities in healthcare access and outcomes among underserved populations. My research seeks to examine the social determinants of health, cultural competence, and structural barriers to healthcare access, with the goal of informing policies and interventions that promote health equity and reduce disparities in healthcare delivery.
Through my doctoral work, I envision contributing to advancements in nursing practice and education in several ways. Firstly, by generating new knowledge through rigorous research, I aim to inform evidence-based practice guidelines, clinical protocols, and policy recommendations that improve patient care and healthcare outcomes.
Secondly, by disseminating my findings through scholarly publications, presentations, and educational workshops, I hope to contribute to the professional development of nurses and healthcare professionals, empowering them with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver high-quality, culturally competent care. Lastly, by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and partnerships with healthcare organizations, academic institutions, and community stakeholders, I aim to facilitate the translation of research into practice and promote a culture of continuous learning and innovation within the nursing profession.
Overall, I am committed to advancing nursing science, promoting excellence in nursing practice, and improving the health and well-being of individuals and communities through my doctoral research and scholarly endeavours.
10. Finally, considering your message about the societal importance of nursing as a profession, what advice would you give to aspiring nursing students, particularly those in Jammu and Kashmir, to thrive in their careers and make meaningful contributions to healthcare?
Ans: To aspiring nursing students, especially those in Jammu and Kashmir, I would offer the following advice to thrive in their careers and make meaningful contributions to healthcare:
Embrace Education: Pursue your nursing education with dedication and enthusiasm. Take advantage of opportunities for learning and professional development to continuously enhance your knowledge and skills. Education is the foundation of nursing practice and equips you with the tools to provide competent and compassionate care to your patients.
Cultivate Empathy and Compassion: Nursing is not just a profession; it's a calling rooted in empathy and compassion. Cultivate these qualities within yourself and strive to see the humanity in each patient you encounter. Your ability to empathize with others and provide compassionate care will make a significant difference in their healing journey.
Be Resilient: Nursing can be demanding, both physically and emotionally. Develop resilience to navigate the challenges you may encounter in your career. Stay committed to your purpose, seek support from peers and mentors, and practice self-care to maintain your well-being while caring for others.
Embrace Diversity and Inclusion: Healthcare is diverse, and patients come from various backgrounds with unique needs and experiences. Embrace diversity and inclusion in your practice, respecting cultural differences and advocating for equitable access to healthcare for all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Advocate for Patients and Communities: As a nurse, you are a powerful advocate for your patients and communities. Stand up for their rights, promote health education and preventive care initiatives, and work towards addressing the underlying social determinants of health that contribute to disparities in healthcare access and outcomes.
Stay Updated with Evidence-Based Practice: Nursing is an evolving field, with new research and best practices emerging constantly. Stay updated with the latest evidence-based guidelines and practices to provide the highest quality of care to your patients. Continuously seek opportunities for professional development and lifelong learning.
Collaborate with Interdisciplinary Teams: Healthcare is a team effort, and collaboration among healthcare professionals is essential for providing comprehensive care to patients. Collaborate effectively with members of interdisciplinary teams, including physicians, therapists, and social workers, to ensure holistic care that addresses the physical, emotional, and social needs of patients.
Be Proactive in Community Engagement: Engage with your local community and contribute to health promotion and disease prevention efforts. Participate in outreach programs, volunteer initiatives, and community health screenings to address the healthcare needs of underserved populations and promote overall well-being.
By following these pieces of advice and embracing the values of education, empathy, resilience, diversity, advocacy, evidence-based practice, collaboration, and community engagement, aspiring nursing students in Jammu and Kashmir can thrive in their careers and make meaningful contributions to healthcare, ultimately improving the health and well-being of individuals and communities.