Nursing, Health Professions, General Nursing, Medical–Surgical Nursing
100
Scopus Publications
9594
Scholar Citations
27
Scholar h-index
65
Scholar i10-index
Scopus Publications
Thyroid dysfunction and its association with micronutrients, lipids, and inflammation: an analytical case-control study Dilshad Hamad Mustafa, Kochr Ali Mahmood, Faisal Faruq Sadiq, Saman Taher Barzinjy, Dawan Jamal Hawezy, et al. BMC Endocrine Disorders, 2026 Background Biochemical, inflammatory, and immunological markers may provide insight into systemic alterations in individuals with or without thyroid dysfunction. Aim This study compared a comprehensive biomarker profile between adults without thyroid disease and those with thyroid dysfunction, and examined gender differences, correlations, and predictive markers. Methods In this case-control study, 120 adults without thyroid disease (cases) and 120 adults with thyroid dysfunction (controls) were enrolled. Demographics, anthropometry, and biochemical parameters—including thyroid hormones, micronutrients, lipid profiles, inflammatory markers, and Epstein–Barr virus PCR—were assessed. Between-group differences were analyzed using the Mann–Whitney U test and the χ² test. Spearman’s rho was used to determine correlations, and multivariable linear regression was used to identify predictors of group status. Results Cases and controls were similar in age (60 ± 12 vs. 60 ± 10.5 years) and body mass index (BMI) (24.85 ± 3.69 vs. 25.58 ± 3.39 kg/m²). Compared with controls, cases had significantly lower zinc (97.98 vs. 143.03 µg/dL), vitamin D₃ (88.24 vs. 152.76 nmol/L), and HDL (88.75 vs. 152.25 mg/dL), but higher serum cholesterol (159.56 vs. 81.44 mg/dL), triglycerides (TG) (171.08 vs. 69.92 mg/dL), LDL (136.06 vs. 104.94 mg/dL), and CRP (140.05 vs. 100.95 mg/L) (all p < 0.001). In controls, TSH correlated positively with the Urea Breath Test (UBT) (rho = 0.334) and negatively with LDL (rho=–0.255). In cases, T3 showed a strong correlation with UBT (rho = 0.625) and a moderate correlation with PCR-EBV (rho = 0.417), while TSH correlated with UBT (rho = 0.434) and CRP (rho = 0.264). Regression analysis identified serum TG (β = 76.806, R²=0.462) and cholesterol (β = 64.834, R²=0.337) as the strongest predictors of case–control status. Conclusion Adults without thyroid disease exhibit distinct biochemical and inflammatory profiles compared with those with thyroid dysfunction, highlighting lipid, micronutrient, and inflammatory markers as potential targets for risk stratification and clinical monitoring. Clinical trial number Not applicable.
Impact of the prolonged economic crisis on healthcare delivery and workforce resilience in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq: a qualitative study Kochr Ali Mahmood, Araz Qadir Abdalla, Govand Saadadin Sadraldeen, Dawan Jamal Hawezy, Gulala Ismail M-Amin, et al. BMC Health Services Research, 2026 Background The economic crisis in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq has severely affected public sector salaries and healthcare infrastructure. These disruptions have increased pressures on the healthcare workforce and exposed gaps in the region’s institutional and workforce resilience. This study explored physicians’ experiences and adaptive responses to the prolonged financial instability and its consequences for healthcare delivery. Methods A qualitative design was adopted using semi-structured interviews with 25 physicians from various specialties working in both public and private sectors across the Kurdistan Region. The study was conducted from March to August 2024 during a period of heightened financial instability. Data were analyzed thematically using a structured six-step qualitative analysis, using an inductive qualitative thematic analysis approach. Results Ten interrelated but analytically distinct themes emerged: workload-related operational stress, salary instability, psychological stress, burnout and hopelessness, coping mechanisms, institutional inaction, clinical decisions under constraints, proposed reforms, need for support, emerging innovations, and impact on patient care. Physicians described increased workloads, delayed or reduced salaries, emotional exhaustion, and a deep sense of hopelessness. Institutional inaction compounded these challenges, forcing doctors to ration care and delay procedures. Despite adversity, participants demonstrated moral resilience through volunteering, free care, and semi-private models. Limited innovations—such as telemedicine and community outreach—were also noted. Collectively, these findings reveal a fragile health system sustained primarily by physicians’ ethical commitment rather than institutional stability. Conclusion The Kurdistan healthcare system endures economic hardship through the moral endurance and adaptability of its physicians. Sustaining healthcare quality requires transforming this individual resilience into institutional resilience through salary stabilization, leadership accountability, and structured psychosocial and professional support. Framing these findings through a resilience lens highlights the urgent need to strengthen both workforce resilience and system-level resilience to sustain healthcare delivery during prolonged crises.
Patient Perceptions of Traditional Bonesetters and Determinants of Their Utilization: A Cross-Sectional Study in Iraqi Kurdistan Rukhsar Muhammad Omar, Salar Omer Abdulqadir, Sirwan Khalid Ahmed, Moustaq Karim Khan Rony Health Science Reports, 2026 Background and Aims Despite the prevalent reliance on traditional bonesetters (TBSs) in Kurdish societies, their role remains underexplored in scholarly research. This study aimed to evaluate patients' perceptions of TBSs and to investigate the determinants of their utilization over modern orthopedic care. Methods A cross‐sectional study was conducted from August 20 to September 20, 2022, using purposive sampling. A structured questionnaire, adapted from prior studies and validated (Cronbach's α = 0.73), assessed sociodemographic characteristics, healthcare experiences, and perceptions. χ 2 test and multivariate logistic regression analysis were applied to identify factors associated with perspectives toward TBSs. Results The study included 106 participants. The majority of participants were aged 18–45 (62%), 51.9% male, and 61.3% urban residents. Perceptions toward TBSs were 34.9% positive, 34.9% negative, and 30.2% neutral. The mean perception score was 4.80 ± 1.40, with 5 as the cutoff for neutral perception. Multivariate analysis revealed that disagreement with hospital staff attitudes (AOR = 0.04, 95% CI: 0.07–0.23, p < 0.001) and fear of hospital procedures (AOR = 0.13, 95% CI: 0.02–0.85, p = 0.033) were significant predictors of TBS preference, while financial constraints and cultural factors were not significant. Conclusion The continued reliance on TBSs in Northern Iraq highlights a critical gap in patient trust toward formal healthcare systems, particularly regarding hospital staff interactions and procedural concerns. Addressing hospital staff attitudes and improving patient confidence in modern medical procedures may help shift preferences toward evidence‐based orthopedic care.
Perspectives of Kurdish Postnatal Women on Respectful Maternity Care: A Qualitative Study Khalat Karwan Fares, Hamdia Mirkhan Ahmed, Kochr Ali Mahmood, Sirwan Khalid Ahmed, Hiwa Abdulrahman Ahmad, et al. Health Science Reports, 2026 Background and Aims Respectful maternity care (RMC) is an essential component of high‐quality maternal healthcare and a fundamental human right, ensuring that women experience childbirth with dignity, privacy, and autonomy. Despite global efforts to promote RMC, many women, particularly in low‐ and middle‐income countries, continue to experience mistreatment and disrespect during childbirth. This study aims to elucidate Kurdish postnatal women's preferences regarding respectful behaviors and interactions during labor and delivery, while also exploring their lived experiences, expectations, and the challenges they encounter within the healthcare system. Methods A qualitative descriptive study design was employed, from September 18, 2023 to December 26, 2023, utilizing semi‐structured in‐depth interviews with 20 postnatal women in a public hospital setting in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Participants were selected through purposive sampling to capture diverse socio‐economic and cultural backgrounds. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes related to RMC, guided by the WHO framework on respectful maternity care. Results Thematic analysis revealed six major themes: respect and dignity, gentleness and supportive care, clear communication, privacy, family presence, and cultural and religious sensitivity. Women emphasized the importance of non‐discriminatory treatment, kind and patient midwives, clear and respectful communication, and privacy during medical procedures. Family presence during labor and culturally sensitive practices were also highly valued. Additionally, some women reported concerns regarding verbal abuse, neglect, and socioeconomic discrimination, indicating gaps in the provision of RMC. Conclusions The findings highlight the urgent need for healthcare systems in the Kurdistan region to align maternity care practices with the cultural, emotional, and physical needs of women. Recommendations include enhanced training for maternity care providers on respectful, patient‐centered care, ensuring privacy, accommodating cultural and religious preferences, and supporting the involvement of family members during labor. Addressing these areas can strengthen trust in maternity services, improve maternal experiences, and contribute to broader global goals in maternal health and human rights.
Efficacy of Digital Mental Health Interventions for Depression and Anxiety in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Fatma Magdi Ibrahim, Iliya Petkov, Mohammed Musaed Al‐Jabri, Ahmad Hammoud, Mohamad Ahmad Saleem Khasawneh, et al. Worldviews on Evidence Based Nursing, 2026 Background Older adults face growing risks of depression and anxiety, yet stigma, comorbidities, cost, and limited access impede receipt of conventional care. Digital mental health interventions (DMHIs), including immersive virtual reality (VR), exergaming, and mobile apps, may reduce these barriers. Aim To evaluate the efficacy of DMHIs in reducing depressive and anxiety symptoms among adults aged ≥ 50 years. Methods We conducted a PRISMA adherent systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials. Interventions included immersive VR, exergaming/physical digital platforms, mobile applications, and digital cognitive training. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) were pooled with random effects models; heterogeneity was assessed with I 2 . Results Nineteen RCTs ( n = 718; mean ages 50.9–84.7 years) met inclusion criteria. Across studies, DMHIs significantly reduced depressive symptoms (SMD = −0.656, 95% CI = −0.932 to −0.380; p < 0.001) and anxiety symptoms (SMD = −0.559, 95% CI = −0.740 to −0.380; p < 0.0001). Immersive and physically engaging modalities (e.g., VR, exergaming) outperformed app‐based approaches. Heterogeneity ranged from moderate to high ( I 2 ≈ 69.6%–97%). Linking Evidence to Action Offer DMHIs : especially VR or exergaming when access to in‐person therapy is limited or as an adjunct to usual care. Provide brief onboarding and, when feasible, caregiver support to boost adherence and confidence with technology. Select or configure age‐friendly interfaces (e.g., large fonts, simple navigation) to address common usability barriers. Integrate DMHIs into stepped‐care or rehabilitation pathways and monitor outcomes with validated tools (e.g., GDS, STAI). Address equity by supplying devices/connectivity solutions and consider cost‐effectiveness and long‐term engagement in implementation plans. Trial Registration: PROSPERO ID: CRD420250655153
Preferred reporting items for concept analysis in nursing: a systematic review Abdulqadir J Nashwan, Jibin Kunjavara, George Joy, Kalpana Singh, Moustaq Karim Khan Rony, et al. Journal of Research in Nursing, 2026 Background: Concepts are fundamental to nursing theory, practice, and research, serving as abstract constructs that represent key aspects of human experience. However, the reporting of concept analysis in nursing lacks standardised guidelines, leading to inconsistencies in methodological transparency and rigour. Existing frameworks for qualitative and mixed-methods research do not adequately address the unique aspects of concept analysis. Aims: This study aims to develop a comprehensive reporting guideline for concept analysis in nursing research, guided by the EQUATOR Network toolkit. Methods: The first stage of guideline development involves a systematic review of MEDLINE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO to identify key components of concept analysis reporting in nursing. The review will focus on studies utilising concept analysis within the nursing metaparadigms: person, environment, health, and nursing, while adhering to PRISMA guidelines to ensure methodological rigour. Results: The systematic review synthesised existing literature to establish a foundational framework of essential elements for reporting concept analysis in nursing. Conclusions: Findings from this review will inform a subsequent Delphi study and structured guideline development process. The resulting standardised reporting framework will enhance methodological consistency, transparency, and reproducibility in concept analysis, thereby contributing to the advancement of nursing theory, research, and practice.
Pathways to Learning Artificial Intelligence: An Exploratory Study Using the Theory of Planned Behavior Ramya Kundayi Ravi, Daljit Kaur, Janisha Kavumpurath, Jaison Jacob, Shivani Sharma, et al. Nursing Forum, 2026 Background Artificial intelligence (AI) has a transformative potential in nursing. The adoption of AI in Indian nursing education is often hindered by limited resources and traditionally structured education systems. In this context, developing evidence‐based insights to enhance AI integration into nursing education in India is imperative. Objective This study examined the relationships and mediating effects of subjective norms, self‐efficacy, personal relevance, basic knowledge, and behavioral intention on AI learning among undergraduate nursing students in India, using a modified theory of planned behavior (TPB) framework. Methods An explanatory, cross‐sectional survey was conducted among 335 nursing students in Punjab, India, to examine factors influencing learning of AI, using a modified TPB framework. Data were collected by the investigator through a self‐administered questionnaire based on TPB constructs, including attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and behavioral intention, with actual learning as the dependent variable. Data were collected by the investigator through Google Forms administered in classrooms. Hypothetical paths were analyzed using SPSS 28.0. Results Contrary to the TPB assumptions, behavioral intention did not predict learning ( β = 0.17, p = 0.08), whereas subjective norms emerged as the strongest predictor ( β = 0.42, p < 0.001). Basic knowledge showed no direct influence on learning ( β = 0.17, p = 0.08), whereas self‐efficacy showed marginal significance ( β = 0.28, p = 0.051). Personal relevance influenced mediators such as subjective norms ( β = 0.42) and basic knowledge ( β = 0.36) but lacked a direct effect on learning, highlighting systemic barriers. Discussion This study challenges individual‐centric models by prioritizing sociocultural factors and systemic barriers in AI education, revealing that collective support and applied training are more important than intention to learn AI. The findings suggest that social influence significantly impacts AI learning, whereas the intention to engage with AI does not necessarily lead to actual learning. Additionally, personal relevance influences key mediators but does not directly enhance learning outcomes. These insights highlight the need for policy reforms that focus on infrastructure development, peer and faculty support, and practical learning opportunities that can help translate students’ interest in AI into meaningful learning outcomes.
Leveraging Artificial Intelligence to Enhance Nursing Workflow in Endoscopy Units Ribwar Arsalan Mohammed, Sirwan Khalid Ahmed, Abdulqadir J. Nashwan Mesopotamian Journal of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare, 2025 This paper explores the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI), including natural language processing (NLP), computer vision, and robotics, to transform nursing workflow in endoscopy units. AI technologies offer numerous advantages, including predictive analytics for efficient scheduling and resource allocation, real-time decision support during procedures, and enhanced diagnostic accuracy through image analysis. Additionally, AI simplifies administrative tasks such as patient scheduling and medical documentation, improving operational efficiency and patient safety. Despite these benefits, challenges related to data privacy, algorithm accuracy, and ethical considerations must be addressed. Effective AI integration requires interdisciplinary collaboration, continuous education for nurses, and robust governance frameworks to ensure responsible and ethical use. Addressing these challenges will enable AI to profoundly impact nursing workflows, significantly enhance patient care, and reshape the operational future of endoscopy units.
Unseen Wounds: The Association Between Past Trauma, Emotional Well-Being and Pain in Cancer Patients—2024–2025. A Multi-Site Cross-Sectional Study, Iraq DK Al-Seleet, AF Saber, SS Ali, AN Ali, KS Abdullah, SS Hussein, ... European Journal of Oncology Nursing, 103204 , 2026 2026
Prevalence of biliary gastritis and associated demographic, dietary, and clinical factors among adults in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq: a cross-sectional study AO Fatah, KA Mahmood, DJ Hawezy, DH Mustafa, ST Barzinjy, ... BMC Research Notes , 2026 2026
What is data saturation, and how do we know it is achieved? SK Ahmed Evidence-Based Nursing , 2026 2026
Thyroid dysfunction and its association with micronutrients, lipids, and inflammation: an analytical case-control study DH Mustafa, KA Mahmood, FF Sadiq, ST Barzinjy, DJ Hawezy, SK Ahmed BMC Endocrine Disorders , 2026 2026 Citations: 1
From antigenic drift to algorithmic prediction: Emerging paradigms in influenza vaccine design and global effectiveness D Hamid Mohammed Amin, D Hars Bapir, B Rasul Abdarahman, ... World Academy of Sciences Journal 8 (3), 39 , 2026 2026
Perspectives of Kurdish Postnatal Women on Respectful Maternity Care: A Qualitative Study KK Fares, HM Ahmed, KA Mahmood, SK Ahmed, HA Ahmad, MKK Rony Health Science Reports 9 (3), e72181 , 2026 2026
Patient Perceptions of Traditional Bonesetters and Determinants of Their Utilization: A Cross‐Sectional Study in Iraqi Kurdistan RM Omar, SO Abdulqadir, SK Ahmed, MKK Rony Health Science Reports 9 (3), e71935 , 2026 2026
Impact of the prolonged economic crisis on healthcare delivery and workforce resilience in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq: a qualitative study KA Mahmood, AQ Abdalla, GS Sadraldeen, DJ Hawezy, GI M-Amin, ... BMC Health Services Research , 2026 2026
Preferred reporting items for concept analysis in nursing: a systematic review AJ Nashwan, J Kunjavara, G Joy, K Singh, MKK Rony, K Mannethodi, ... Journal of Research in Nursing, 17449871251410464 , 2026 2026 Citations: 1
Efficacy of Digital Mental Health Interventions for Depression and Anxiety in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis FM Ibrahim, I Petkov, MM Al‐Jabri, A Hammoud, MAS Khasawneh, ... Worldviews on Evidence‐Based Nursing 23 (1), e70119 , 2026 2026 Citations: 1
Pathways to Learning Artificial Intelligence: An Exploratory Study Using the Theory of Planned Behavior RK Ravi, D Kaur, J Kavumpurath, J Jacob, S Sharma, P Baby, SK Ahmed Nursing Forum 2026 (1), 5278157 , 2026 2026
Global Nursing Shortages: A Call for Policy Over Promise SK Ahmed Sage Open Nursing 11, 23779608251408230 , 2025 2025 Citations: 1
The relationship between sleep quality and emotional resilience in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy: a national cross-sectional study in Iraq AF Saber, AH Hamad, AN Ali, S Hussein, K Qurbani, SK Ahmed, ... Supportive Care in Cancer 33 (12), 1046 , 2025 2025
Ethical and institutional readiness for artificial intelligence in nursing: An umbrella review WT Almagharbeh, M Alharrasi, MKK Rony, S Kabir, SK Ahmed, ... International nursing review 72 (4), e70111 , 2025 2025 Citations: 11
The Influence of Cultural Factors on Advance Healthcare Directives AF Saber, S Hussein, SK Ahmed, DK Al-seleet, HK Zainalddin, FF Hamid, ... Health Innovation Reports 1 (3), 50-65 , 2025 2025
Longitudinal plication for rectal prolapse: An 8-year retrospective cohort study SH Shareef, TA Hussian, NI Allaqolli, MHA Albarznji, DN Ismael, ... Current Problems in Surgery, 101913 , 2025 2025
Understanding barriers to type 2 diabetes self-management in excessive weight adults: A qualitative study of patient experiences SK Ahmed, HW Murad, KA Mahmood, AQ Abdalla, MKK Rony, RK Ravi, ... Journal of Diabetes & Metabolic Disorders 24 (2), 217 , 2025 2025 Citations: 1
Obesity: Prevalence, causes, consequences, management, preventive strategies and future research directions SK Ahmed, RA Mohammed Metabolism Open 27, 100375 , 2025 2025 Citations: 240
Adrenal insufficiency unmasked following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: A rare case report SK Ahmed International Journal of Surgery Case Reports 133, 111595 , 2025 2025
Using thematic analysis in qualitative research SK Ahmed, RA Mohammed, AJ Nashwan, RH Ibrahim, AQ Abdalla, ... Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health 6, 100198 , 2025 2025 Citations: 1068
MOST CITED SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS
The pillars of trustworthiness in qualitative research SK Ahmed Journal of medicine, surgery, and public health 2, 100051 , 2024 2024 Citations: 3039
Antimicrobial resistance: Impacts, challenges, and future prospects SK Ahmed, S Hussein, K Qurbani, RH Ibrahim, A Fareeq, KA Mahmood, ... Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health 2, 100081 , 2024 2024 Citations: 1389
Using thematic analysis in qualitative research SK Ahmed, RA Mohammed, AJ Nashwan, RH Ibrahim, AQ Abdalla, ... Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health 6, 100198 , 2025 2025 Citations: 1068
How to choose a sampling technique and determine sample size for research: A simplified guide for researchers SK Ahmed Oral Oncology Reports 12, 100662 , 2024 2024 Citations: 957
Sample size for saturation in qualitative research: Debates, definitions, and strategies SK Ahmed Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health 5, 100171 , 2025 2025 Citations: 617
Road traffic accidental injuries and deaths: A neglected global health issue SK Ahmed, MG Mohammed, SO Abdulqadir, RGA El‐Kader, NA El‐Shall, ... Health science reports 6 (5), e1240 , 2023 2023 Citations: 362
Obesity: Prevalence, causes, consequences, management, preventive strategies and future research directions SK Ahmed, RA Mohammed Metabolism Open 27, 100375 , 2025 2025 Citations: 240
Artificial intelligence in nursing: Current trends, possibilities and pitfalls SK Ahmed Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health 3, 100072 , 2024 2024 Citations: 113
Monkeypox (mpox) in immunosuppressed patients SK Ahmed, MG Mohamed, EA Dabou, I Abuijlan, D Chandran, ... F1000Research 12, 127 , 2023 2023 Citations: 84
Research methodology simplified: how to choose the right sampling technique and determine the appropriate sample size for research SK Ahmed Oral Oncology Reports 12 (100662), 100662-100662 , 2024 2024 Citations: 82
The impact of ChatGPT on the nursing profession: revolutionizing patient care and education SK Ahmed Annals of biomedical engineering 51 (11), 2351-2352 , 2023 2023 Citations: 72
Infectious diseases threat amidst the war in Gaza S Hussein, SK Ahmed, K Qurbani, A Fareeq, RA Essa Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health 2, 100067 , 2024 2024 Citations: 61
Environmental health risks after the 2023 Turkey-Syria earthquake and salient mitigating strategies: a critical appraisal SK Ahmed, D Chandran, S Hussein, P Sv, S Chakraborty, MR Islam, ... Environmental Health Insights 17, 11786302231200865 , 2023 2023 Citations: 53
The impact of monkeypox outbreak on mental health and counteracting strategies: a call to action SK Ahmed, SO Abdulqadir, SH Hussein, RM Omar, NA Ahmed, RA Essa, ... International Journal of Surgery 106, 106943 , 2022 2022 Citations: 53
Global reports of myocarditis following COVID-19 vaccination: A systematic review and meta-analysis SK Ahmed, MG Mohamed, RA Essa, EAA Rashad, PK Ibrahim, AA Khdir, ... Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research & Reviews 16 (6), 102513 , 2022 2022 Citations: 48
Knowledge, attitude and worry in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq during the Mpox (Monkeypox) outbreak in 2022: an online cross-sectional study SK Ahmed, SO Abdulqadir, RM Omar, AJ Abdullah, HA Rahman, ... Vaccines 11 (3), 610 , 2023 2023 Citations: 44
Addressing the effects of war on Gaza’s healthcare system SK Ahmed Cureus 15 (12) , 2023 2023 Citations: 43
Impact of heavy metals on breast cancer AS Ali, ME Nazar, RM Mustafa, S Hussein, K Qurbani, SK Ahmed World Academy of Sciences Journal 6 (1), 4 , 2023 2023 Citations: 41
Bioremediation of heavy metals in contaminated environments using Comamonas species: A narrative review SH Hussein, K Qurbani, SK Ahmed, W Tawfeeq, M Hassan Bioresource Technology Reports 25, 101711 , 2024 2024 Citations: 40
The role of digital health in revolutionizing healthcare delivery and improving health outcomes in conflict zones SK Ahmed, S Hussein, D Chandran, MR Islam, K Dhama Digital health 9, 20552076231218158 , 2023 2023 Citations: 38
