Medika Aksara: Journal of Health Sciences
Medika Aksara: Journal of Health Sciences adalah jurnal ilmiah akses terbuka (open access) yang didedikasikan untuk memperluas wawasan dan praktik dalam berbagai aspek ilmu kesehatan. Diterbitkan oleh Yayasan Pendidikan Kardin Assidiq, jurnal ini berkomitmen tinggi dalam menyebarluaskan hasil penelitian berkualitas, inovatif, dan relevan bagi masyarakat luas. Tujuan utama Medika Aksara adalah menyediakan platform bagi akademisi, peneliti, praktisi, serta mahasiswa untuk mempublikasikan karya ilmiah orisinal mereka. Kami berupaya memfasilitasi pertukaran pengetahuan dan temuan mutakhir yang berkontribusi pada pengembangan ilmu pengetahuan kesehatan, peningkatan kualitas pelayanan kesehatan, dan Perumusan kebijakan kesehatan berbasis bukti (evidence-based policy). Medika Aksara: Journal of Health Sciences terbit secara berkala tiga kali setahun, yakni pada bulan Februari, Juni dan Oktober. Untuk menjaga validitas dan integritas ilmiah, setiap artikel yang masuk wajib melalui proses peninjauan sejawat (peer-review) yang ketat sebelum dinyatakan layak terbit. Kami menerima naskah berupa artikel penelitian orisinal (original research articles), artikel tinjauan (review articles), laporan kasus (case reports), dan artikel singkat (short communications) yang mencakup, namun tidak terbatas pada: ilmu Kedokteran Klinis, Kesehatan Masyarakat, Ilmu Keperawatan dan Kebidanan, Farmasi, Gizi, Biomedis, dan Psikologi. Kami mengundang para peneliti dan praktisi untuk mengirimkan hasil riset terbaiknya. Seluruh naskah yang diajukan akan diproses melalui mekanisme double-blind peer review oleh pakar di bidangnya. Hal ini kami lakukan untuk menjamin standar kualitas, objektivitas, dan praktik terbaik sesuai kaidah jurnal ilmiah bereputasi.
The efficacy of topical aloe vera therapy in alleviating scabies symptoms among students in an Islamic boarding school
Background: Scabies remains a highly prevalent parasitic skin infection in densely populated environments, particularly within the congregational living settings of Islamic boarding schools. The high endemicity of this condition highlights the urgent need for accessible, low-cost, and effective complementary therapies to manage symptoms and improve the dermatological health of the students. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of topical Aloe vera therapy on reducing the severity of scabies symptoms among female students at the Hikmatusysyarief NW Islamic Boarding School in West Lombok Regency, Indonesia. Methods: A quantitative study employing a quasi-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test design was conducted. Using a total sampling technique, 30 female students diagnosed with scabies were recruited as respondents. The intervention consisted of topical Aloe vera application twice daily for seven consecutive days. Symptom severity was systematically evaluated using a structured observation sheet at baseline and following the completion of the intervention. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results: Baseline assessments indicated that 56.7% (n=17 ) of the respondents presented with moderate scabies symptoms, while 43.3% (n=13 ) experienced severe symptoms. Following the seven-day Aloe vera intervention, a substantial clinical improvement was observed, with a significant transition of cases into the mild symptom category. The statistical analysis revealed a highly significant reduction in scabies symptom severity following the intervention ( p<0,001). Conclusion: Topical Aloe vera application is an effective complementary therapy for alleviating scabies symptoms among students in highly populated congregational settings. Integrating herbal interventions such as Aloe vera can serve as a practical and affordable nursing care approach to managing dermatological conditions in boarding schools.
Copyright (c) 2026 Febriana Simpati, Ni Nyoman Santi Tri Ulandari, Alwan Wijaya https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Nursing leadership and clinical protocol compliance: A cross-sectional study in surgical wards
Background: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) during critical phases, such as new patient admissions in surgical wards, is crucial for mitigating patient safety risks. This clinical discipline is empirically highly dependent on unit-level leadership. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the correlation between the head nurse's managerial role and nurses' compliance with SOPs for new patient admissions in a surgical unit. Methods: This quantitative correlational study with a cross-sectional design involved 34 clinical nurses in the surgical ward of RSUD dr. R. Soedjono Selong, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using structured, validated, and reliable questionnaires. Data were analyzed descriptively and inferentially using the Spearman's Rank Correlation test with a significance level of $\alpha = 0.05. Results: Descriptive analysis revealed that the majority of respondents perceived the head nurse's managerial role as good (58.8%), and the nurses' level of compliance with SOPs was predominantly in the good category (52.9%). The Spearman Rank correlation test demonstrated a statistically significant and strong positive correlation between the two variables (p < 0.001; r = 0.769). Conclusion: An optimal managerial role executed by the head nurse (encompassing planning, organizing, directing, and clinical supervision) significantly enhances nurses' compliance with SOPs. Optimizing the head nurse's supervisory role is highly recommended to ensure the consistency of care and foster a culture of patient safety.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fela Kusniadi, Hadi Suryatno, Febriati Astuti, Eva Marvia https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The association between anemia and menstrual cycle irregularities among adolescent girls: A cross-sectional study
Background: Anemia in adolescent girls significantly impacts their reproductive health and overall quality of life, particularly concerning menstrual cycle regularity. A bidirectional relationship exists: irregular cycles or heavy menstrual bleeding can exacerbate anemia, while anemia itself can disrupt normal menstrual patterns. In Indonesia, the national prevalence of anemia among adolescent girls reaches 32%, with West Nusa Tenggara reporting an even higher rate of 41.4%. Specifically, in the West Rasanae District of Bima City, 666 adolescent girls were reported to suffer from anemia, highlighting an urgent public health concern. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the association between anemia and menstrual cycle patterns among adolescent girls at SMP Negeri 13 in Bima City. Methods: A quantitative study utilizing a cross-sectional design was conducted. The population comprised 38 seventh-grade female students, all of whom were selected as participants using a total sampling technique. Data collection involved measuring hemoglobin levels using a digital hemoglobinometer (Easy Touch) and assessing menstrual cycle patterns through a structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using the Chi-Square test. Results: The findings indicated that out of the 38 respondents, 23 (60.5%) were non-anemic, 9 (23.7%) had mild anemia, and 6 (15.8%) experienced moderate anemia. Regarding their menstrual patterns, 23 respondents (60.5%) reported regular menstrual cycles, whereas 15 respondents (39.5%) experienced irregular cycles. Bivariate statistical analysis revealed a highly significant relationship between anemia and menstrual cycle irregularities (p-value = 0.000; p < 0.05). Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between anemia and menstrual cycle patterns among adolescent girls. These findings underscore the critical need for routine hemoglobin screening and integrated reproductive health education within school-based health programs.
Copyright (c) 2026 Karlina Karlina, Rosita Khaerina, Arista Kusuma Wardani, Kristiani Murti Kisid https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The effect of leaflet-based health education on adolescents' knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS infection
Introduction: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that attacks CD4 T lymphocytes, leading to severe immune deficiency known as Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Adolescents are highly vulnerable to high-risk behaviors driven by intense curiosity, especially when exposed to maladaptive environments. The lack of comprehensive reproductive health and sexuality education is a primary risk factor for their poor understanding of preventing this life-threatening infectious disease. Objective: This study aimed to determine the effect of health education using leaflet media on adolescents' knowledge levels regarding HIV/AIDS infection. Methods: This quantitative study employed a pre-experimental design with a One-Group Pretest-Posttest approach. The sample consisted of 103 students recruited via total sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, and the intervention was delivered through leaflet-based education. Data analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test. Results: Prior to the intervention, the majority of adolescents had poor knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS (78.6%, n=81). Following the health education session, a significant improvement was observed, with most respondents achieving a good knowledge level (91.3%, n=91). The bivariate analysis yielded a p-value of 0.000 (p < 0.05). Conclusion: There is a significant effect of leaflet-based health education on improving adolescents' knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS infection at SMA Negeri 1 Pujut, Central Lombok. Leaflets are proven to be an effective educational tool for health promotion in school settings.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muara Rezki Hidratullah, Ni Nyoman Santi Tri Ulandari, Sri Masdiningsih Utami https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The correlation between maternal support and menarche-related anxiety in early adolescents: A retrospective study
Background: Menarche is a primary physiological milestone in adolescent girls, marking the maturation of the reproductive system. The rapid physical and psychological changes occurring during this phase frequently trigger anxiety, particularly when adolescents lack sufficient preparedness and reproductive health literacy. As the closest attachment figure, a mother's support plays a pivotal role in assisting young adolescents to comprehend and navigate these developmental transitions. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between maternal support and menarche-related anxiety among early adolescent female students at a public junior high school in North Lombok Regency, Indonesia. Methods: A quantitative correlational study employing a retrospective approach was conducted. The population comprised female students in the 7th and 8th grades who had previously experienced menarche. Utilizing a total sampling technique, 50 eligible respondents were recruited. Data regarding perceived maternal support and menarcheal anxiety levels were collected using validated self-administered questionnaires. Bivariate data analysis was performed using the Chi-Square test. Results: The statistical analysis revealed a highly significant correlation between maternal support and the level of adolescent anxiety during menarche ( p=0.001, alpha=0.05). Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between maternal support and menarche-related anxiety among early adolescents. Optimal and proactive maternal support serves as a crucial buffer in alleviating psychological distress, thereby promoting better reproductive health readiness and emotional well-being in young adolescent girls.
Copyright (c) 2026 Yelmina Pebrianti, febriati astuti, Sri Masdiningsih Utami, Nurul Ilmi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The correlation between nursing workload and work motivation in inpatient wards: A cross-sectional study
Background: High Bed Occupancy Rates (BOR) and continuous surges in emergency admissions frequently overwhelm nursing capacities. When the nurse-to-patient ratio exceeds the optimal capacity, it triggers severe physical and mental fatigue. Such excessive workloads are critical determinants that can significantly undermine nurses' work motivation and, consequently, the quality of care delivery. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the correlation between nursing workload and work motivation in the Paviliun Nusa Indah Inpatient Ward at the Patut Patuh Patju Regional Public Hospital, West Lombok, Indonesia. Methods: A quantitative correlational study utilizing a cross-sectional design was conducted. The study population comprised 32 clinical nurses, recruited entirely through a total sampling technique. Data regarding perceived workload and work motivation were collected using validated self-administered questionnaires. The bivariate data analysis was performed using the Spearman Rank correlation test. Results: The descriptive analysis revealed that the vast majority of the nurses experienced a heavy workload (81.8%, n = 26). Correspondingly, a substantial proportion of the respondents exhibited low work motivation (34.4%, n = 11). The Spearman Rank test demonstrated a statistically significant, moderate inverse correlation between the two variables (p = 0.005; r = -0.485). Conclusion: There is a significant negative correlation between workload and nurses' work motivation in the inpatient ward. A heavier workload directly translates to diminished work motivation. Strategic managerial interventions, such as adjusting the nurse-to-patient ratio and providing psychosocial support, are crucial to sustaining motivation and preventing burnout.
Copyright (c) 2026 Egi Mulyadi Pratama, Hadi Suryatno, Alwan Wijaya, Febriati Astuti https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Maternal knowledge and basic immunization completeness in infants: A cross-sectional study in North Lombok, Indonesia
Introduction: Immunization is a crucial primary preventive measure against infectious diseases in children. Despite high global immunization coverage, gaps in vaccination completeness remain prevalent in developing countries. Theoretically, maternal knowledge plays a significant role in determining preventive health behaviors. However, field observations indicate that knowledge does not consistently translate into the actual practice of completing immunizations. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the relationship between maternal knowledge levels regarding immunization and the completeness of basic immunization among infants aged 9–12 months. Methods: This quantitative study employed a correlational design with a cross-sectional approach. A total of 99 mothers with infants aged 9–12 months in the working area of the Santong Community Health Center were recruited in March 2024. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using the Chi-Square test. Results: The demographic profile revealed that the majority of respondents were aged 23–28 years (55.6%), held a high school education (59.6%), and were homemakers (49.5%). Descriptive analysis indicated that 42.4% of the mothers possessed an adequate level of knowledge, whereas the basic immunization completeness rate for the infants was only 30.3%. Statistical analysis demonstrated no significant correlation between the level of maternal knowledge and the completeness of the infant's basic immunization (p = 0.515). Conclusion: Adequate maternal knowledge does not guarantee the completion of basic immunization in infants. This finding suggests that immunization adherence is likely influenced by external factors beyond the maternal cognitive domain. Further in-depth investigations exploring systemic barriers, healthcare accessibility, and family support are highly recommended.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nurhayati Nurhayati, Ni Nyoman Santi Tri Ulandari, Robiatul Adawiyah, Ageng Abdi Putra, Reza Trisnandi, Sukardin Sukardin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Online gaming engagement and academic performance among nursing students: A cross-sectional study
Background: The exponential surge in online gaming among university students has raised global concerns regarding internet gaming disorder and its potential detriment to academic performance. However, its specific impact on nursing students—a population enduring high academic stress and rigorous clinical demands—remains underexplored. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between online gaming involvement and the academic performance of undergraduate nursing students in Mataram, Indonesia. Methods: A quantitative observational study with a cross-sectional design was conducted. A total of 79 undergraduate nursing students were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected using the validated Internet Gaming Disorder Scale–Short-Form (IGDS9-SF) and official Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) records from the last two semesters. Bivariate analysis was performed using the Chi-Square test with a significance level of α < 0.05. Results: The findings indicated that while a notable proportion of students (41.8%) exhibited symptoms of online gaming addiction, the Chi-Square test revealed no significant relationship between online gaming involvement and academic performance (p = 0.361). Students who engaged heavily in gaming maintained their academic grades comparably to those who did not. Conclusion: High exposure to online gaming does not inherently degrade the academic achievement of nursing students. The absence of a negative correlation suggests that gaming may serve as an active coping mechanism for severe academic stress, which is effectively neutralized by the students' self-regulated learning and the practical skills-based nature of the nursing curriculum. Psychoeducational approaches focusing on stress management and self-regulation are recommended over absolute digital restriction.
Copyright (c) 2026 Abuzar Algifari, Sukardin Sukardin, Wahyu Cahyono https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The association between physical activity and blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A cross-sectional study
Introduction: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a progressive chronic metabolic disease caused by insulin resistance and inadequate insulin secretion. Non-pharmacological management, particularly regular physical activity, is considered a cornerstone in controlling patients' glycemic profiles. However, the effectiveness of physical activity on blood glucose regulation in primary care settings often shows inconsistent results and remains debated. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the association between physical activity levels and blood glucose levels among T2DM patients in the working area of Dompu Kota Community Health Center. Methods: This quantitative study employed an observational design with a cross-sectional approach. A total of 76 respondents were recruited using purposive sampling. Physical activity levels were assessed using a standardized questionnaire, while glycemic parameters were obtained through random blood sugar (RBS) tests. Bivariate data analysis was performed using the Chi-Square test. Results: The characteristics of the respondents revealed that the majority engaged in heavy physical activity (55.7%), while a small minority were in the light activity category (7.1%). Clinical evaluation showed that most respondents (66.3%) had uncontrolled blood glucose levels. Statistical testing demonstrated no significant relationship between physical activity and blood glucose levels (p = 0.531; p > 0.05). Conclusion: The level of physical activity does not have a significant correlation with blood glucose control in T2DM patients at Dompu Kota Community Health Center. The lack of glycemic control in this population is likely dominated by other confounding factors beyond physical activity, such as dietary non-adherence or suboptimal pharmacological management.
Copyright (c) 2026 Misnah Misnah, Ni Nyoman Santi Tri Ulandari, Nia Firdianty https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Association between online gaming duration and psychological distress among high school adolescents
Background: Excessive screen time exposure for online gaming carries a substantial risk of disrupting psychological well-being in adolescents, particularly during the critical phase of academic transition. Objective:This study aimed to analyze the association between online gaming duration and the severity of psychological distress among vocational high school adolescents. Methods: This observational analytic study with a cross-sectional design involved 33 final-year students (12th grade) at SMK NW Kumbung, East Lombok, recruited via total sampling. Gaming duration and mental emotional status were assessed using standardized self-report questionnaires. Data were analyzed descriptively and inferentially using the Spearman's Rank Correlation test with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: The majority of respondents spent a disproportionate amount of time playing online games, specifically 3–4 hours per day (45.5%), corresponding with a prevalence of psychological distress predominantly in the moderate (45.5%) and severe (39.4%) categories. Statistical analysis demonstrated a very strong and significant positive correlation between online gaming duration and the exacerbation of mental emotional disorders (p < 0.001; r = 0.962). Conclusion: A longer duration of time spent on online gaming is highly associated with an increased severity of psychological distress in adolescents. Preventive interventions, including digital literacy psychoeducation programs and periodic mental health screenings in school settings, are urgently needed.
Copyright (c) 2026 Diana Afrilia, Ni Nyoman Santi Ulandari, I Made Eka Santosa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Effect of benson relaxation therapy on blood pressure reduction in hypertensive patients: A quasi-experimental study
Background: Hypertension is a global health issue and a major cause of fatal cardiovascular and renal complications. Controlling blood pressure requires not only pharmacological treatments but also complementary non-pharmacological approaches. Benson relaxation therapy suppresses sympathetic nervous system activity and stress hormones, thereby promoting a relaxation response that helps lower blood pressure. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Benson relaxation therapy on blood pressure changes among patients with hypertension. Methods: A quasi-experimental study with a pretest-posttest control group design was conducted. Using purposive sampling, 51 respondents were selected from a population of 106 hypertensive patients and assigned to either an intervention or a control group. Blood pressure was measured using a digital sphygmomanometer. The intervention group received Benson relaxation therapy for 10–15 minutes, three times a week, over a two-week period. Data were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test. Results: There was a significant reduction in blood pressure in the intervention group following the therapy. The Mann-Whitney test indicated a significant difference in blood pressure changes between the intervention and control groups (p = 0.001; p < 0.05). No significant changes were observed in the control group. Conclusion: Benson relaxation therapy significantly reduces blood pressure in hypertensive patients. It is recommended as a safe, highly applicable, and effective complementary nursing intervention in community health settings.
Copyright (c) 2026 Eva Marvia, Sahrum Mubaraq, Agus Putradana, Alwan Wijaya https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Effectiveness of leisure occupational therapy in reducing hallucination symptoms: A quasi-experimental study
Introduction: Hallucinations are a debilitating symptom in psychiatric patients that require comprehensive management. Leisure occupational therapy is a non-pharmacological intervention designed to provide meaningful and enjoyable engagement. By minimizing idle time and shifting the patient's focus toward structured activities, this therapy theoretically reduces internal hallucinatory responses. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of leisure occupational therapy in reducing the severity of hallucination symptoms among patients in the working area of the Lingsar Primary Healthcare Center (Puskesmas Lingsar). Methods: This quantitative study employed a quasi-experimental design (One-Group Pretest-Posttest). From a total population of 47 patients experiencing hallucinations, 21 respondents were recruited using purposive sampling based on specific inclusion criteria. The severity of hallucination symptoms was measured using a validated structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test to determine statistical significance. Results: Prior to the intervention, the majority of respondents exhibited severe hallucination symptoms (76%, n=16), while the remainder showed moderate symptoms (24%, n=5). Following the implementation of leisure occupational therapy, a substantial clinical improvement was observed: 52% of the respondents (n=11) transitioned to mild symptom levels, and 48% (n=10) exhibited moderate symptoms. Statistical analysis confirmed a highly significant reduction in the signs and symptoms of hallucinations (p = 0.001; p < 0.05). Conclusion: Leisure occupational therapy has a significant and positive effect on reducing hallucination symptoms. Integrating this structured, activity-based therapy into community mental health nursing programs is highly recommended to enhance patient rehabilitation and therapeutic outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Yuli Yanti, Citra Sepriana, Ni Made Sumartyawati https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The relationship between family support and hypertension control in community settings: A cross-sectional study
Introduction: Hypertension is a major contributor to cardiovascular morbidity requiring long-term management. In community settings, successful blood pressure control heavily relies on patient adherence to therapeutic regimens and lifestyle modifications. Family support is considered a crucial social determinant facilitating this adherence. However, optimizing the family's role in rural areas remains a significant challenge. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the relationship between family support and hypertension control among the community in Ketangga Village, within the working area of Suela Community Health Center, East Lombok. Methods: This quantitative correlational study employed a cross-sectional approach. Out of a total population of 93 hypertensive patients, 74 respondents were recruited using purposive sampling. Data were collected utilizing structured questionnaires to assess the level of family support and hypertension control behaviors. Bivariate data analysis was performed using the Spearman Rank Correlation test. Results: Descriptive analysis revealed that the majority of respondents received inadequate family support (57%, n=42) and exhibited poor hypertension control (68%, n=50). Statistical testing demonstrated a significant positive correlation between family support and hypertension control (p = 0.002; p < 0.05), with a moderate correlation strength (r = 0.350). Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between adequate family support and hypertension control in community settings. These findings highlight the necessity of actively involving family members in health promotion programs and chronic disease management at the primary healthcare level.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nadia Riani Wulandari, Ni Nyoman Santi Tri Ulandari, Citra Sepriana, Rahmani Ramli https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The correlation between head nurse leadership styles and nursing performance in inpatient wards
Background: The leadership style of a head nurse is a pivotal determinant in shaping the clinical work environment and directly influences nursing performance. Despite established managerial frameworks in regional hospitals, inconsistent leadership approaches and suboptimal communication frequently hinder nurses' clinical engagement and overall care delivery. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the correlation between head nurse leadership styles and nurse performance in the inpatient wards of a regional public hospital. Methods: A quantitative correlational study utilizing a cross-sectional design was conducted at the Regional General Hospital of North Lombok Regency. A total sampling technique was applied, recruiting 95 clinical nurses. Data regarding perceived leadership styles and nurse performance were collected using validated structured questionnaires. Due to the specific distribution of the categorical data, bivariate analysis was performed using Fisher's Exact Test. Results: The participative leadership style was the most dominantly perceived by respondents (54.7%), followed by democratic (41.1%), laissez-faire (3.2%), and authoritarian (1.1%). Concurrently, the vast majority of the nurses demonstrated good performance (87.4%), while 11.6% showed sufficient performance, and 1.1% showed poor performance. The statistical analysis revealed a highly significant correlation between the head nurse's leadership style and nursing performance (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Effective leadership styles, particularly participative and democratic approaches, are significantly associated with high nursing performance. Hospital management should implement targeted leadership development programs for head nurses to foster a supportive clinical environment and optimize the quality of nursing care.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lara Umul Aspian, Hadi Suryatno, Eva Marvia https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Effect of combined progressive muscle relaxation and slow deep breathing on blood pressure reduction among hypertensive elderly
Background: Hypertension is a chronic condition characterized by elevated arterial blood pressure ≥130/80 mmHg, which, if not properly controlled, may lead to target organ damage such as the heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes. The prevalence of hypertension remains high both globally and nationally. Hypertension can be managed through pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies, including progressive muscle relaxation and slow deep breathing as non-pharmacological interventions Objective: This study aims to examine the effect of combined progressive muscle relaxation and slow deep breathing on blood pressure reduction among hypertensive elderly within the working area of Lepak Health Center, East Lombok. Methods : A pre-experimental one-group pretest–posttest design was employed in this study. The population consisted of 71 elderly individuals with hypertension, and 40 respondents aged 60–74 years were selected using purposive sampling. Blood pressure was measured using a digital sphygmomanometer before and after the intervention, and the effect of the intervention was analyzed using a paired t-test. Results: The results show that before the intervention, 25 respondents (62.5%) had blood pressure levels of ≥160/≥100 mmHg. After the intervention, 30 respondents (75%) had blood pressure levels of 120–139/80–99 mmHg. The paired t-test shows a significant difference with p < 0.001 (p < 0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, combined progressive muscle relaxation and slow deep breathing significantly reduce blood pressure among hypertensive elderly within the working area of Lepak Health Center, East Lombok Recommendation: studies are recommended to employ randomized controlled trial designs with larger and more diverse samples, longer follow-up periods, and better control of potential confounding factors to further validate the effectiveness of combined progressive muscle relaxation and slow deep breathing therapy in managing hypertension among older adults.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Ridwan, Ni Made Sumartyawati, Rahmani Ramli, I Made Eka Santosa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The relationship between nurses' caring behavior and patient satisfaction under the national health insurance scheme
Background: Nursing service is a fundamental component that significantly influences the overall image and quality of hospital healthcare delivery. A critical aspect of this service is the caring behavior of nurses, which encompasses empathy, attentiveness, and responsiveness. Despite its importance, maintaining consistent caring behavior remains a challenge, particularly in public hospitals serving a high volume of National Health Insurance (BPJS Kesehatan) patients. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between nurses' caring behavior and the level of satisfaction among BPJS Kesehatan patients in the adult inpatient ward of Bima Regional General Hospital. Methods: A quantitative correlational study with a cross-sectional design was conducted. A purposive sampling technique was employed to select 61 BPJS Kesehatan patients as respondents. Data were collected using validated self-administered questionnaires assessing perceived nurses' caring behavior and patient satisfaction levels. Bivariate data analysis was performed using the Chi-square test. Results: The findings indicated that the majority of respondents ( , ) perceived the nurses' caring behavior as "good," which corresponded highly with the "very satisfied" and "satisfied" categories. Conversely, patients who perceived sufficient or less caring behavior reported lower satisfaction levels. The statistical analysis revealed a highly significant correlation between nurses' caring behavior and patient satisfaction ( ). Conclusion: There is a significant and positive relationship between nurses' caring behavior and patient satisfaction among BPJS Kesehatan beneficiaries. Optimal caring behavior acts as a primary catalyst for enhancing patient comfort, safety, and overall service satisfaction. Consequently, hospital management must prioritize continuous professional development, clinical coaching, and routine evaluations to foster and sustain a strong caring culture among nursing staff in public healthcare settings.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dandi Mahardika, Hadi Suryatno, Eva Marvia https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Family knowledge and hypertension dietary compliance among rural older adults in Indonesia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Background: Hypertension is a leading global health challenge and the most prevalent chronic condition among the elderly in Indonesia. While strict dietary modification is crucial for blood pressure management, compliance in rural settings remains suboptimal. Family support and health literacy are hypothesized to be pivotal in maintaining dietary adherence, yet empirical evidence within rural Indonesian contexts is limited. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the association between family knowledge and dietary compliance among elderly patients with hypertension in a rural community of North Lombok Regency, Indonesia. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted involving 40 elderly individuals and their family members, selected through total sampling. Data concerning family knowledge and hypertension dietary compliance were collected using validated questionnaires. Due to the sample size and data distribution, statistical analysis was performed using Fisher’s Exact Test. Results: The majority of respondents demonstrated high family knowledge (65%), while dietary compliance was evenly split between good (42.5%) and moderate (42.5%), with only 15% showing poor compliance. Bivariate analysis revealed a highly significant positive association between family knowledge and hypertension dietary compliance (p < 0.001). Families with a better understanding of hypertension were significantly more likely to ensure patient adherence to dietary restrictions. Conclusion: Adequate family knowledge significantly enhances dietary compliance among elderly individuals managing hypertension. Community health interventions should prioritize family-centered education to improve chronic disease management and cardiovascular outcomes in rural aging populations.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sri Masdiningsih Utami, I Gusti Ayu Mirah Adhi, Wahyu Cahyono, Astika Handayani https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The correlation between professional nursing competence and the quality of nursing care in inpatient wards
Background: Professional nursing competence is a critical determinant of healthcare outcomes. Although continuous efforts have been made to standardize care, maintaining high-quality nursing care delivery in regional hospital inpatient wards remains a complex challenge that heavily relies on nurses' clinical and professional capabilities. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the correlation between professional nursing competence and the quality of nursing care provided to patients in the inpatient wards of a regional hospital. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed. A total sampling technique was utilized, recruiting 44 professional nurses from the inpatient installations. Data were collected using validated, structured questionnaires designed to measure nurses' professional competence and patients' perceived quality of care. Data analysis was conducted using the Kendall Tau-b correlation test. Results: The statistical analysis revealed a significant, moderate positive correlation between professional nursing competence and the quality of nursing care ( , ). These findings indicate that higher professional competence among nursing staff is directly associated with improved quality of care delivery. Conclusion: Professional nursing competence significantly influences the quality of inpatient nursing care. Hospital management should prioritize continuous professional development, clinical training, and competency evaluations for nursing staff to optimize healthcare service quality and patient satisfaction.
Copyright (c) 2026 Agus Radi, Hadi Suryatno, Nia Firdianty https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Psychological Factors Associated with Self-Management in Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Literature Review
Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global chronic disease that not only causes physical complications but also significantly impacts patients' psychological well-being. Conditions such as stress, anxiety, depression, and diabetes distress often act as barriers to effective self-management. Despite their critical role, these non-medical psychological factors frequently receive insufficient attention in standard clinical practice. Objective: This study aims to systematically analyze existing literature regarding the psychological factors that influence self-management behaviors in patients with diabetes mellitus. Methods: A Systematic Literature Review (SLR) was conducted utilizing the Scopus database for articles published between 2020 and 2024. The search strategy employed predetermined keywords and was filtered based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Selected articles underwent quality evaluation and data synthesis to determine the impact of psychological variables on DM self-management. Results: The review identified 14 eligible articles. The synthesis of these studies demonstrates a significant correlation between psychological factors—specifically stress levels, diabetes distress, depression, and anxiety—and the success of self-management. High psychological burden negatively affects the efforts made by DM patients, including self-efficacy, strict dietary control, regular exercise, and independent blood glucose monitoring. Conclusion: Psychological stability is a crucial determinant of successful self-management in DM patients. Addressing stress, distress, depression, and anxiety should be integrated into comprehensive diabetes care to enhance self-management adherence and improve overall health outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lusia Warni, Ade Srywahyuni, Sri Hayulita , Dona Amelia https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0