Beatriz Valdes

The influence of high fidelity simulation on first responders retention of CPR knowledge.

INTRODUCTION The purpose of this study was to identify the impact of high-fidelity simulation on the retention of basic life support cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) knowledge among a group of healthcare providers (HCPs). METHODS A twenty-five question exam was completed by nurses and nurse technicians over a two-year period before and after mandatory CPR training with high-fidelity simulation. RESULTS Most HCPs scored near 50% or below the passing score (80%) with a mean range of scores between 28% and 84%. HCPs missed questions on the exam that requested specific details related to technique or human physiology during CPR. CONCLUSION The current teaching method for basic life support may be enhanced by using high-fidelity simulation, but this modality alone is not enough to support HCPs retention of CPR knowledge. Additional studies are needed to identify strategies that will help HCPs remember specific and detailed information in the CPR algorithm.

The Perceived Effects of Condoms on Sexual Experience: A Comparison of Older Hispanic and Non-Hispanic Men.

Heterosexual transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is increasing in older adult populations around the world. This study compares Hispanic and non-Hispanic men ages 50 years and older currently using prescribed erectile dysfunction medications in relation to their perception of the effect of condoms on sexual experience. A sample of 86 men (40 Hispanic and 46 non-Hispanic men) ages 50-79 years completed the 10-item Effect on Sexual Experience (ESE) subscale. Although there was no difference between the 2 groups on the subscale mean score, t(84) = 1.449, p = .151, analysis of the subscale items found 1 item that was significantly different (p = .005) between the 2 groups, although this difference could have been related to different perceptions of the word disgusting. Hispanic men were also less concerned than non-Hispanic men about condom-related loss of erection. This study adds to the literature on HIV and STD prevention for older Hispanic/Latinos.

Contemplating Co-Occurring Cultures: A Grounded Theory Study of Sexual Decision Making Among Hispanic Men Who Have Sex With Men

Introduction HIV infection continues to be a serious health concern globally. Of the 1.2 million people with HIV infection in the United States, men who have sex with men (MSM) account for 57% of cases. Hispanic/Latino individuals accounted for 24% of new HIV diagnoses, with male-to-male sexual contact responsible for the majority of cases. A factor in HIV prevention is the sexual decision-making process. The purpose of this study was to describe the process by which sexual decision making occurs among Hispanic MSM. Method Utilizing a grounded theory approach, 19 in-depth, semistructured interviews were conducted from participants ages 25 to 65 years living in South Florida. After consent, participants completed an in-depth interview. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed to identify categories and subcategories. Findings A theory grounded in the data called Contemplating Co-Occurring Cultures (Hispanic, gay, and health cultures) emerged that described the central phenomenon. These co-occurring cultures were the foundation of sexual decision making among participants. Conclusion Clinicians providing care to this population should be aware of the complexity of the sexual decision-making process. Awareness of these factors may provide the opportunity for HIV risk reduction strategies developed specifically for Hispanic MSM.

The Velvet Rage: Overcoming the Pain of Growing Up Gay in a Straight Man's World (2nd ed.). by Alan Downs

Clinical psychologist Alan Downs, PhD describes the lifelong journey of homosexual men in Western society using a three-stage model in the book The Velvet Rage: Overcoming the Pain of Growing Up Gay in a Straight Man’s World. Chronological in order, the book presents anonymous excerpts from Downs’s homosexual male patients supporting his model for handling shame throughout their lives to ultimately achieve “authenticity or an authentic life.” This book strives to provide an understanding of what it is like to be a homosexual man in today’s world and to help gay men achieve this final stage of “authenticity.” Downs describes “authenticity” as the final stage where a homosexual man realizes that they are desirable and loveable, which affords them happiness and a fulfilled life. Furthermore, Downs personalizes and validates this book by letting his target audience know that he, too, is a homosexual man who has experienced the stages in his model and further supports his stance by providing details of his life path from shame to “authenticity.” Trained in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), psychotherapists such as Downs believe that shame regulates emotions, which result in maladaptive behaviors; furthermore, Downs credits the writing of this book on this practice. In his completely revised second edition, Downs dedicates an extra chapter to living a homosexual life without the influence of shame—basically, an authentic life—which can be achieved employing the techniques of DBT. In addition, he provides the audience a two-page weekly chart based on DBT teachings that serves as a resource tool for guiding homosexual men towards an authentic life. The tool is divided into three sections: “life choices, increasing positive emotions, and relationships” (Downs, 2012, pp. 219–220).