Nursing | Student Research Posters

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  Reducing Emergency Department Visits Among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

  Teri Nguyen

  In the realm of pediatric healthcare, children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) face unique challenges alongside their caregivers. Caregivers face challenges in accessing appropriate support and resources to effectively address the needs of children with ASD. Children with ASD struggle with sensory sensitivities, impaired safety awareness, and difficulties perceiving potential dangers which put them at greater risk for injuries. As a result, children with autism have higher rates of emergency department visits compared to their neurotypical peers. This research aims to assess the effectiveness of nurse-led home injury prevention and education in reducing emergency department visits for children with ASD. This research proposal will use a true quantitative experimental design with a convenient sample of 100 children who have been diagnosed ASD and have had an emergency department visit within the previous year. The intervention and control groups' means will be compared using descriptive statistics. The anticipated outcome will be that nurse-led home injury prevention and education during follow-up visits will significantly reduce rates of emergency department visits in children with ASD by enhancing caregiver knowledge, promoting the implementation of tailored safety measures, and fostering a safer home environment.

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  Reducing Levels of Compassion Fatigue Among Generation Z Hospital Nurses

  Kailani Yee

  Although qualities such as empathy and compassion are commonly regarded as essential traits in a caregiver, continuous exposure to the hardships and suffering of others creates a risk of developing compassion fatigue. Compassion fatigue (CF) is the emotional, physical, and mental toll that builds up over time in individuals in caregiver roles. It develops from the prolonged expression of compassion and empathy while caring for individuals experiencing death, trauma, suffering, or grief (Delaney, 2018).

  Nurses are among the populations most impacted by CF as they are typically at the forefront of patient-care, bearing responsibility for the physical, psychosocial, and emotional well-being of multiple individuals on a daily basis (Taşdemir et al., 2024).

  With more young nurses entering the workforce, it's imperative that there is a better understanding of how to properly address this issue among Generation Z nurses. The purpose of this research proposal is to explore the most effective strategies to prevent and treat CF in Generation Z nurses working in the hospital.

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  Reducing Paternal Stress in the NICU: The Role of Supportive Nursing Interventions

  Kylie Bennett

  The neonatal intensive care unit, also known as the NICU, is a special unit for newborn babies who require intensive medical care (Stanford Medicine Children's Health, 2019). As of February 2024, 1 in 10 infants born in the United States is admitted to the NICU (Goodman et al., 2024). An infant’s NICU hospitalization generates significant stress for parents. Fathers of NICU infants often face unique stressors, and are commonly overlooked in the NICU environment (Rajabzadeh et al, 2020). With limited research on nursing interventions to address this stress specifically for fathers, this emphasizes the importance of exploring the stressors and support needs of fathers with infants in the NICU, as well as understanding what nursing interventions are being implemented to support fathers and reduce their stress during this difficult period.

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  Robotics and A.I in Oncological Surgery

  Ian Ngo

  Throughout the decades, advancements in

  technology have been surpassing limits that

  were thought impossible. Every day these

  breakthroughs are improving modern

  surgery whether it be enhancing precision

  on surgical sites, increasing accuracy of

  procedure, or reducing recovery rates for

  patients. Among the newly increasing

  innovations, the implementation of robotics

  systems and artificial intelligence (AI) into

  the surgical field has emerged into

  becoming a transformative force, especially

  within a context as delicate as tumor removal.

  This study explores the numerous benefits

  of incorporating robotics and artificial

  intelligence (AI) in tumor removal surgeries.

  We investigate how these innovations

  improve surgical accuracy, reduce

  postoperative complications, and boost

  overall patient outcomes. This research

  aims to highlight the transformative impact

  of these technologies on the future of

  oncological surgery, establishing new

  benchmarks for surgical quality and patient

  care through a review of current literature,

  clinical trials, and case studies.

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  Scabies Prevention in Correctional Facilities: A Path to Safer Inmate Populations

  Bhavandeep Singh

  Scabies is a contagious skin condition caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis mite, which burrows into the skin to lay eggs and feces, causing intense itching and a rash. These symptoms can take up to 4-6 weeks for a first time infection and it can occur as early as 1-4 days for a person who previously had scabies (National Park Service, 2023). Scabies is often transmitted through prolonged and direct skin to skin contact with an infected person, through sharing clothing, or due to overcrowded environments. This intense itching and rash can cause poor sleep, social ostracization, and affect employment if not addressed properly. Scabies infestations are frequently complicated by bacterial infection called impetigo as a result of the scratching which may further result in abscesses, sepsis, and other invasive infections such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes (WHO, 2024). Prisoners often suffer poor living conditions due to a lack of medical services, proper nutrition, and unsanitary conditions. Prisoners in jails are in constant physical contact with each other and their health can easily be affected if one or more inmates gets a contagious skin disease like scabies, which can spread into the general public when they are released or if staff members carry infections outside.

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  Specialized Support for Queer Women with Postpartum Depression

  Dan-Tam Pham

  Queer women face disproportionately high rates of postpartum depression compared to heterosexual and cisgender individuals. Studies showed that queer women face heightened mental health challenges, including higher rates of depression and anxiety due to factors like discrimination, limited support systems, and negative healthcare experiences. There is a need for culturally competent, LGBTQ+ affirming interventions to improve maternal mental health outcomes; despite the health disparities faced by this population, research on specialized postpartum interventions is limited, revealing gaps in effective mental health care for queer mothers. The key search terms for the articles used in the study included: postpartum depression, queer women, LGBTQIA+, LGBT, perinatal depression, maternal outcomes of PPD,, therapy, interventions, treatment, and management. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of specialized postpartum mental health support in reducing the incidence and severity of PPD among queer women, compared to standard postpartum care. This study utilized Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory and a quasi-experimental design with a sample of 200 queer mothers within two years postpartum, divided into intervention and control groups. Outcomes were measured using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) at baseline and at six-month intervals over a two-year period. It is anticipated that participants in the intervention group will show a significant reduction in PPD symptoms, reflected in lower EPDS scores, compared to the control group receiving standard care. Additionally, qualitative data will provide insights into participants' experiences with the specialized support model. This study highlights the urgent need for culturally tailored, LGBTQ+-affirming postpartum mental health interventions. Findings are expected to inform healthcare systems and providers, promoting equitable care and improved mental health outcomes for queer mothers.

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  Tackling Fall Risk in Geriatric Dementia Patients: The Impact of Medication Reconciliation Relating to Polypharmacy & Falls

  Jenl Khristen Ang

  Over half of the elderly population are taking three or more prescription drugs daily. For those aged 65 and older, polypharmacy, taking five or more medications, is common due to conditions like hypertension, heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes (CDC, 2019). Managing these medications can be challenging, especially for those with dementia, who may also take drugs for conditions such as diabetes or depression, which can worsen cognitive impairment (Chippa & Roy, 2023). The complex regimens and increased sensitivity to medications heighten the risk of adverse events, particularly falls, a major cause of injury, hospitalizations, and loss of independence in older adults (Mueller et al., 2018). Studies suggest that medication reconciliation, or regularly reviewing a patient’s medications, could help reduce falls and improve safety for elderly individuals with dementia.

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  Telehealth: A Rising Intervention for Latina Mothers Experiencing Prenatal and Postpartum Depression

  Britney Gutierrez

  Abstract: Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is high among Latina women but often goes unrecognized and untreated. Recognition and management of PPD in this population is crucial as PPD contributes to negative health effects on the mother and infant. Purpose: This research aims to look into telehealth to improve screening methods and treatment for Latina mothers through a Spanish mobile health application that will provide screening and education on PPD. Method: This mixed-method quality improvement study will include 300 participants from an OB-GYN and Pediatrics community clinic, > 18 years old, of Hispanic/Latino ethnicity, Spanish speaking, currently pregnant, or had a child within the last year, with a score >12 on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), have no current treatment for PPD and have access to a mobile application. Participants will be randomly divided into two groups receiving the standard protocol for PPD but one group will receive the mobile app. Pre and post-tests will be used to measure scores of PPD using the EPDS in which independent t-test analyses will be conducted to reveal significant differences between the groups. Descriptive statistics will be used to measure the rates of screening between the groups and a coding scheme will be completed for the qualitative research obtained on mother’s experiences. Results: It is hypothesized that Latina mothers who participate in the mobile application intervention will have higher percentages of screening and lower scores on the EPDS post-test. A p-value less than 0.05 will reveal significant differences between the intervention and control groups. Conclusion: This research will show the significant impact of using telehealth, a mobile health application in Spanish, for screening and treating Latina mothers with PPD.

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  The Critical Role of External Involvement in Supporting Adolescent Mothers Facing Postpartum Depression

  Samantha Campopiano

  Postpartum depression (PPD) can occur in mothers after birth. PPD affects one in seven women during their first year of postpartum. PPD does not have a definitive cause, but underlying contributions include hormonal changes, metabolic pathway changes, and a new onset of stressors. After birth, the drop in estrogen and progesterone levels can trigger or worsen the depressive episodes seen in PPD. PPD risk factors encompass the following determinants: psychological, obstetric, social, lifestyle, and family history (Carlson et al., 2024). Postpartum depression is more common in adolescents than adult mothers (Phipps et al., 2013). Research shows adolescents who don’t have family support or approval struggle immensely when trying to cope with postpartum depression (Obichili et al., 2023). Typically, adolescents struggle to adjust to parenthood more than their adult counterparts (Oladeji et al., 2019).

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  The Effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences on the Weight and Emotional Stability in Adolescents

  Lauren Parayno

  Adverse childhood experiences (ACES)a r e traumatic events that can occur during an adolescent's life. Af e w example of ACES are: • parental divorce/ separation • having a parent or guardian that isaddicted to a substance. These events cause the adolescent tolive through a state of chronic stress. Furthermore, these experiences put adolescents at a greater risk for obesity and depression. With adequate screening, nurses would be able to identify adolescents going through these troubling times. Interventionssuch aseducation on a healthier lifestyle and providing counseling services, would be beneficial to the age group.

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  The Effects of Music Therapy on Pediatric Patients with Congenital Heart Defects in the Pre and Postoperative Setting

  Janelle Marie Choy

  Congenital heart defects is a prominent medical occurrence especially in pediatrics. These defects often require surgeries and extensive treatment plans. These treatment plans often include invasive surgeries and extensive treatment plans which can require long recovery times along with potential surgical complications. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of music therapy on pediatric patients with congenital heart defects in the pre and postoperative setting and how music therapy can be implemented in treatment plans to yield effective recovery results for these patients. This research is significant as elevated vital signs and preoperative anxiety are associated with an increased need for anesthesia and analgesia requirements which can correlate to a risk for surgical complications. Elevated postoperative pain can result in an increased need for analgesic medications which can contribute to medication toxicity in a pediatric patient which can cause further complications. This study would consist of 80 pediatric patients on a cardiac unit aged 1 day to 10 years old diagnosed with a congenital heart defect who is undergoing cardiac surgery. A quasi-experimental randomized control trial will be conducted to compare the results of these cardiac patients in both preoperative and postoperative procedures. In these settings nurses would be responsible for gathering pre and postoperative vital signs, assessing preoperative anxiety, and assessing postoperative pain levels. With this study it is expected that patients who received music therapy during both pre and post operative procedures experienced a stabilization of vital signs, reduced preoperative anxiety, and lower postoperative pain levels.

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  The Impact of Having a Native Spanish-Speaking Nurse in Labor and Delivery for Latina Mothers

  Lesvia Muñoz Mazariegos

  Labor and Delivery is the physiological process in which a pregnant woman gives birth to a baby. (Lowdermilk et al., 2019). This can be a physically, emotionally, and medically challenging process for mothers. Patients with limited English proficiency have difficulties communicating their needs, more specifically pain management needs when there are language barriers between them and the healthcare staff. (Jimenez et al., 2012). As of July 2023, Hispanic or Latinos made up 19.5% of the United States population, an estimated 65.2 million people. (pewresearch.org). An increase in the Hispanic population that primarily speaks Spanish can pose challenges for healthcare settings when there are limited Spanish speaking nurses. (Jimenez et al., 2012). With limited research on this topic, it is important to explore the experiences of both Spanish-speaking patients and native Spanish-speaking nurses in a Labor and Delivery setting. To be defined, a native Spanish-speaker is someone of Spanish ethnicity and cultural background with Spanish being their first language.

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  The Impact of Roe v. Wade Overturning on Women’s Access to Medical Abortions: Exploring Alternative Care Models

  Gillie Mason

  The Impact of Roe v. Wade Overturning on Women’s Access to Medical Abortions: Exploring Alternative Care Models

  Medical abortion access is heavily influenced by state laws, with restrictive policies posing significant barriers for women seeking care. These barriers include limited local resources, travel burdens, and legal restrictions, which disproportionately affect marginalized populations. The Health Belief Model (HBM) highlights how individuals' perceptions of risks, benefits, and barriers shape their health decisions, making it an ideal framework for studying this issue (Rosenstock, 1974).

  This research focuses on educating California-based providers to increase access to medical abortion services for patients in restrictive states. By addressing knowledge gaps and enhancing provider willingness to use telemedicine and mail-order services, this study aims to improve equitable access to reproductive care. Research shows that targeted education and innovative care models can empower providers to help mitigate the impacts of restrictive abortion laws (Doe et al., 2024).

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  The Impact of Spanish Classes for Labor and Delivery Nurses on Postpartum Depression Incidence among Hispanic Women

  Leilani Gutierrez

  Postpartum depression (PPD) is a form of clinical depression that affects individuals after childbirth and is characterized by feelings of sadness, anxiety, and other symptoms that impact daily functioning. After childbirth, postpartum depression and anxiety are experienced by 70-80% of new mothers (South Dakota Department of Health). The likelihood being twice as high for Hispanic women compared to caucasian women. Postpartum depression impacts 30-43% of Hispanic mothers who have recently given birth. Research indicates that poor childbirth experiences can lead to postpartum depression (Lara-Cinisomo et al,. 2023). The connection between language obstacles in the maternal care of Hispanic women and postpartum depression is attributed to the dissatisfaction resulting from their delivery experience. Insufficient studies have been performed on the impact of language limitations on maternal health and their capacity to affect a mother's mental health following childbirth.

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  The Impact of Workplace Stressors on Anxiety Levels and Mental Health Among Pediatric Intensive Care Nurses

  Kelsey Ericah Ang

  Background: Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) nurses work in a high-stress environment where they are exposed daily to traumatic situations. The demanding emotional and physical challenges contribute to significant psychological burdens, including increased stress and anxiety. Purpose: The current paper proposes a research design to examine the outcomes of stress, anxiety levels, and mental well-being on PICU nurses when workplace support and structured debriefing sessions take place following a traumatic event. Methods: Participants will be recruited from PICU hospitals in Northern California. Participation will be voluntary, and informed consent will be obtained prior to the study. The selection criteria will include registered nurses with a minimum of three years of experience in the PICU setting. Results: Standardized mental health assessment scales, such the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale will be used to gather quantitative data as well as descriptive statistics which will provide an overview of baseline psychological variables. Afterwards, inferential statistics such as the t-test will be used to compare the averages between the control group and the intervention group, utilizing pre- and post-test measures. The analysis will then examine correlations between the participation in structured debriefing following a critical incident and the improvements in psychological outcomes, including reduced anxiety levels, decreased stress, and improved psychological well-being among PICU nurses. Conclusion: Workplace stressors significantly impact the emotional health of PICU nurses and can result in heightened levels of stress and anxiety. By addressing the foundation of these challenges, this study recognizes the importance of mental health interventions as it supports the development of strategies to strengthen overall well-being of pediatric nurses working in critical care settings.

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  The Implementation of Ketamine-Assisted-Psychotherapy on Healthcare Workers Suffering From Workplace-related PTSD due to COVID-19

  Ziluolan Zou

  During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, healthcare workers were exposed to a deadly disease with limited knowledge and personal protective equipment, subjected to long hours, forced to ration care due to limited critical care resources and ventilators, and isolated from their families due to fear of spreading the virus. These factors further compounded the occupational stress associated with being a healthcare worker. The literature shows that the physical, mental, and emotional challenges frontline healthcare workers faced during the COVID-19 pandemic had lasting impacts on their mental health. The prevalence of mental health illnesses, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, among healthcare workers indicates that there is a need for further research into effective therapeutic interventions for the treatment of PTSD symptoms. Existing research about Ketamine-Assisted-Psychotherapy for the treatment of PTSD symptoms has shown promising results. However, many existing studies are limited by the absence of a control group and the use of small sample sizes. This research aims to address those gaps and assess the therapeutic potential of KAP as a treatment modality for frontline healthcare workers suffering from PTSD related to COVID-19. Participants will be 100 healthcare workers who worked in critical care during the COVID-19 pandemic and meet the DSM-5 criteria for PTSD. Half of the participants will undergo KAP and the other half will undergo Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, following the same treatment schedule. Participants will fill out validated measure forms before treatment, during treatment, immediately after treatment, and three months after treatment cessation. Data will be analyzed using basic descriptive statistics, compared using t-tests, and reported using confidence intervals, effect sizes, and p-waves. The findings from this study will contribute to developing more effective interventions for mental health illnesses in healthcare workers.

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  The Power of Plate & Knowledge: Nutrition’s Role in PCOS Management for Asian American Women

  Cassandra Camille Diego Curameng

  Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a metabolic endocrine disorder affecting 8–11% of women worldwide, with 70% remaining undiagnosed (WHO, 2023). It presents with symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, insulin resistance, high testosterone levels, anxiety, depression, and infertility, significantly impacting quality of life and health (OASH, 2021). The symptoms of PCOS can severely impact women’s quality of life, mental health, and long-term well-being. Insulin resistance contributes to symptom severity and a 50% likelihood of developing diabetes or prediabetes by age 40 (Wang et al., 2011). Women with PCOS face a threefold increased risk of endometrial, ovarian, and breast cancers (Barry et al., 2014). Despite its prevalence, many women with PCOS struggle to manage their symptoms effectively. Healthcare providers commonly treat PCOS symptoms with medications such as birth control, Spironolactone, and Metformin (Radosh, 2009). However, early intervention is crucial in reducing the risk of developing more severe health complications related to PCOS, yet there remains a lack of education for both providers and patients among the Asian American community on lifestyle and dietary changes that could help manage the condition.

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  Transgender Asian Americans

  Abraham James Tiro

  Understanding how transgender Asian Americans feel and what they experience is crucial, not just for the sake of healthcare, but also societal balance, better legislation, and to aid communities that struggle with acceptance. The goal of this research is to uplift and share the stories of transgender Asian Americans. Doing so can make our society more equitable and free of discrimination and fear of harassment.

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  Understanding ARFID in Autistic Children Through Parent's Lens

  Lisette Oviedo

  This poster presents a proposed study aimed at assessing parents' knowledge about their children with a dual diagnosis of autism and Avoidant-Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) with the intent to develop future care strategies that are both person-centered and family-centered.

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  Unleashing Wellness: Exploring the Impact of Pet Therapy on Anxiety Reduction, Quality of Life, and Treatment Adherence in Pediatric Oncology Patients

  Karina Brouwer

  Pet therapy is a complementary type of therapeutics in which a person and animal have a guided interaction with the purpose of helping someone cope with physical and/or mental illness. Animal-assisted therapy is used in numerous settings and has been shown to reduce stress, lower blood pressure and heart rate, and decrease anxiety and depression (Husson University, 2022). In particular, pediatric oncology patients have enormous amounts of stress in their lives, which leads to increased anxiety and decreased quality of life (Children's Cancer Cause, 2023). While evidence shows that integrating pet therapy in pediatric oncology patients produces significant benefits on anxiety levels and perception of quality of life, there is a lack of substantial research regarding how these benefits lead to increased treatment adherence. It is pivotal for nurses and other healthcare professionals to understand the impact of pet therapy on pediatric oncology patients in order to implement a holistic approach to treatment that aims to address both the physical and psychological needs of the patient.

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  Whole Foods Diet on Cognitive Functions In Children From Low-Income Families with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

  Jasmine Le

  Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurological disorder that has become increasingly prevalent in adolescents worldwide. This disorder often impairs academic performance, emotional regulation, and ability to navigate daily tasks effectively. It usually persists from childhood to adulthood (Hemamy et al., 2021).

  Although conventional treatments such as medication and therapies are used for symptom management, many low-income families do not have the resources or education to access medical help, which may lead them to seek alternative treatments. Emerging research suggests that modifying diet to incorporate whole foods, foods rich in essential nutrients and minutely processed foods, may play a major role in alleviating ADHD symptoms. While research shows that a healthy diet is beneficial in improving ADHD symptoms, there is limited research on nursing interventions for the low-income school-age population (Robinette et al., 2022).

  Considering how vulnerable populations such as low-income students may not have healthcare access, it is crucial for nurses and healthcare professionals to understand the importance of diet in treating ADHD, as it addresses a holistic approach to managing symptoms.

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  Addiction Behind the American Dream: A Case for Harm Reduction among Upper and Middle Class

  Sean Marc Sanga

  The purpose of this study is to help bring awareness to the significant lack of information revolving around the idea of harm reduction interventions. This study will mainly focus on the upper and middle class, therefore, the end goal is to gain insight on what exactly deters or dissuades this specific population from gaining care. In addition, I hope it will provide some solutions to the growing drug problem among Middle America.

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  Addressing Disparity: A Waiting Room Intervention for Preeclampsia Prevention in African Americans

  Morgan Semana

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  A Pulse for Progress – Examining the Efficacy of Best Nursing Developmental Care Practices for Children with Congenital Heart Disease at Risk for Developmental Delay in the PCICU: A Prospective Quasi-Experimental Cohort Study

  Jasmyn H. Jansen

  This paper examines the efficacy current best developmental care nursing practices in the pediatric cardiac intensive care unit (PCICU) for children with congenital heart disease (CHD). The proposed study explores the implications of the Cardiac Inpatient Neurodevelopmental Care Optimization (CINCO) program, a recent comprehensive developmental care bundle, as a universal implementation for PCICUs.