International Journal of Health Concord
Aim The International Journal of Health Concord aims to promote collaborative and interdisciplinary health research that addresses the pressing health challenges in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), fostering knowledge exchange, innovation, and evidence-based practices to improve population health outcomes. Scope The journal publishes a wide range of article types, including original research, reviews, case studies, perspective articles, theoretical/conceptual studies, policy analyses, short communications, and research protocols, covering all areas of health and healthcare relevant to LMICs. The journal welcomes studies in topics including, but not limited to: public health, clinical research, nursing, midwifery, medical sciences, rehabilitation, psychology, pharmacy, health policy and management, global health, nutrition, infectious diseases, mental health, community health, and digital health/telemedicine. Studies employing qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods designs are encouraged. Focus The journal focuses on generating evidence and insights that can guide healthcare practices, policy-making, and community interventions in resource-limited settings, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary and collaborative approaches. Specific Focus Collaborative and interdisciplinary health research in LMICs Innovative interventions, including digital health and technology-driven approaches, to improve health outcomes in resource-limited settings Health policy, health systems strengthening, and implementation research Nursing, medical, and allied health research tailored to LMIC contexts Community-based, preventive, and population health programs
Articles
15 Documents
<![CDATA[Effectiveness of Purpose-Oriented Counseling on Postpartum Contraceptive Decision-Making Among Women ]]>
<![CDATA[Pratiwi, Iva Gamar Dian]]>;
<![CDATA[Permatasari, Dian]]>;
<![CDATA[Huzaimah, Nailiy]]>;
<![CDATA[Fatoni, Akhmad Feri]]>;
<![CDATA[Rahmawati, Sylvina]]>
<![CDATA[ International Journal of Health Concord Vol. 1 No. 1 (2025): International Journal of Health Concord ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Lembaga Chakra Brahmanda Lentera (Chakra Brahmanda Lentera Institute) [CANDLE] ]]>
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DOI: 10.55018/ihc.v11.3
<![CDATA[Background: Postpartum contraception is essential for ensuring safe birth spacing and reducing maternal-infant morbidity. However, decision-making regarding contraceptive use remains suboptimal due to inadequate and generalized counseling. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the One-Purpose Counseling Technique in improving postpartum women's decisions on appropriate contraceptive selection. Methods: A pre-experimental post-test-only control group design was used, involving 40 postpartum women within 40 days of delivery. Participants were divided into two groups: 20 received structured One-Purpose Counseling and 20 received standard counseling. Data were collected at the Pamolokan Community Health Center and analyzed using chi-square and independent samples t-test with SPSS 26. Result: Among women who received One-Purpose Counseling, 75% selected an appropriate contraceptive method, compared to only 15% in the control group. The difference was statistically significant (p = 0.00047), indicating a strong effect of the intervention on informed contraceptive decision-making. Conclusion: The One-Purpose Counseling Technique significantly enhances postpartum women's ability to choose suitable contraception by focusing on goal-oriented, personalized interaction. Health practitioners, especially in low-resource settings, are recommended to adopt this model to improve contraceptive uptake and reproductive autonomy. Future research should assess long-term contraceptive adherence and satisfaction following this intervention.]]>
<![CDATA[Determinants of Basic Immunization Coverage: The Role of Family Knowledge and Support in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia ]]>
<![CDATA[Abustam]]>;
<![CDATA[Ullah, Tariq]]>
<![CDATA[ International Journal of Health Concord Vol. 1 No. 1 (2025): International Journal of Health Concord ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Lembaga Chakra Brahmanda Lentera (Chakra Brahmanda Lentera Institute) [CANDLE] ]]>
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DOI: 10.55018/ihc.v11.6
<![CDATA[Background: Indonesia continues to face challenges in achieving optimal immunization coverage, especially in rural and underserved regions. In Central Sulawesi, incomplete basic immunization among children remains prevalent despite government programs. This study aimed to investigate the role of maternal knowledge and family support in predicting complete basic immunization coverage among children aged 1–5 years in Toili II Community Health Center, Banggai Regency. Methods: A cross-sectional correlational study was conducted in August 2024 using a non-probability sampling method. A total of 53 mothers participated. Data were collected using validated and reliable questionnaires measuring maternal knowledge (18 items) and family support (15 items). Immunization status was verified using vaccination cards. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, bivariate Chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression. Result: Results showed that 64.2% of children had complete immunization. Nearly half of the mothers had moderate knowledge (49.1%) and moderate family support (39.6%). Logistic regression revealed that both maternal knowledge (p < 0.001) and family support (p < 0.001) were significant independent predictors of complete immunization. Together, they explained 85.9% of the variance in immunization status. Conclusion: This study concludes that maternal knowledge and family support significantly and synergistically influence childhood immunization completeness. Health promotion strategies should integrate family-based education and support systems into immunization programs, particularly in rural areas. Frontline health workers are encouraged to assess both knowledge and perceived support during routine visits. Policymakers should consider embedding family-engagement modules in immunization guidelines and leveraging household dynamics to strengthen national immunization coverage.]]>
<![CDATA[Accuracy of Triage and Its Association with Family Satisfaction in the Emergency Department of a General Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study ]]>
<![CDATA[Delianto]]>;
<![CDATA[Kumar, K. Sesha]]>
<![CDATA[ International Journal of Health Concord Vol. 1 No. 1 (2025): International Journal of Health Concord ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Lembaga Chakra Brahmanda Lentera (Chakra Brahmanda Lentera Institute) [CANDLE] ]]>
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DOI: 10.55018/ihc.v11.8
<![CDATA[Background: Triage is a critical process in emergency departments (EDs), determining patient prioritization based on condition severity. While triage accuracy is crucial for clinical outcomes, its influence on family satisfaction remains underexplored, particularly in rural Indonesian settings. This study aimed to examine the relationship between triage accuracy and family satisfaction in the emergency department of Mokoyurli General Hospital, Buol Regency. Methods: A cross-sectional design was used involving 113 family members of ED patients selected through accidental sampling. Triage accuracy was assessed based on standard criteria (red, yellow, green), while family satisfaction was measured using a validated questionnaire covering six domains. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Spearman’s rho correlation Result: Among the respondents, 77% experienced accurate triage, while 23% did not. In terms of satisfaction, 18.6% were dissatisfied, 44.2% fairly satisfied, and 37.2% satisfied. A strong, statistically significant correlation was found between triage accuracy and family satisfaction (ρ = 0.710, p < 0.001). Respondents particularly appreciated timely communication and respectful care, although moderate satisfaction remained predominant. Conclusion: Triage accuracy significantly influences family satisfaction, functioning as both a clinical and emotional reassurance mechanism. Enhancing emergency nurses’ triage competencies and interpersonal communication can improve care experiences. Hospitals, especially in rural areas, should integrate structured triage protocols with clear communication strategies to build trust and satisfaction. Future research should include mixed-method approaches to capture nuanced family perspectives and assess long-term satisfaction trends.]]>
<![CDATA[How Knowledge Influences Antibiotic Adherence Among Outpatients: A Cross-Sectional Study at Indonesian Primary Health Centers ]]>
<![CDATA[Fidyawati]]>;
<![CDATA[Oqui, Maximiano]]>;
<![CDATA[Pinto, Joaquim]]>
<![CDATA[ International Journal of Health Concord Vol. 1 No. 1 (2025): International Journal of Health Concord ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Lembaga Chakra Brahmanda Lentera (Chakra Brahmanda Lentera Institute) [CANDLE] ]]>
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DOI: 10.55018/ihc.v11.9
<![CDATA[Background: Antibiotic resistance poses a significant global health challenge, often exacerbated by inappropriate antibiotic use and poor patient adherence to prescribed regimens. Understanding the factors influencing antibiotic knowledge and adherence among outpatients is critical to improving treatment outcomes and mitigating resistance development. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between patients’ knowledge and their adherence to antibiotic use at Puskesmas Gadung Kab. Buol Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted involving 42 outpatient respondents between January and February 2024. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge of antibiotics, and adherence behavior were collected using structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics and Spearman’s rho correlation test were applied to analyze the data Result: The findings revealed that a substantial proportion of respondents demonstrated moderate to good knowledge about antibiotics, with a notable association between higher knowledge levels and better adherence to antibiotic regimens. The majority of participants complied with prescribed antibiotic use, particularly those with sufficient understanding of antibiotic resistance and appropriate usage. The study also identified that demographic factors such as age, gender, education, and occupation influenced both knowledge and adherence behaviors. The statistical analysis confirmed a significant positive correlation between knowledge and adherence, underscoring the importance of patient education Conclusion: In conclusion, enhancing patients’ knowledge about antibiotics is essential to improving adherence and combating antibiotic resistance. Healthcare providers should prioritize continuous educational interventions and counseling to reinforce correct antibiotic use among outpatients. Future research with larger samples and diverse settings is recommended to generalize the findings and explore additional factors influencing adherence.]]>
<![CDATA[Effectiveness of Acupressure Therapy in Reducing Blood Pressure Among Older Adults with Hypertension ]]>
<![CDATA[Hartati, Sri]]>;
<![CDATA[Kamesworo]]>;
<![CDATA[Elviani, Yeni]]>
<![CDATA[ International Journal of Health Concord Vol. 1 No. 1 (2025): International Journal of Health Concord ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Lembaga Chakra Brahmanda Lentera (Chakra Brahmanda Lentera Institute) [CANDLE] ]]>
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DOI: 10.55018/ihc.v11.10
<![CDATA[Background: Hypertension is a non-communicable disease that remains one of the leading causes of premature death worldwide. However, in the elderly population, there is a decline in muscle mass and strength, decreased heart rate, reduced exercise tolerance, and lowered cardiovascular capacity. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of acupressure therapy on blood pressure reduction in elderly patients with hypertension Methods: This study employed a quantitative research design using a quasi-experimental method to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention. The research was conducted among elderly individuals with hypertension in the working area of Pagar Agung Public Health Center, Lahat, in 2023 Result: The results of the paired t-test showed a statistically significant difference in blood pressure before and after acupressure therapy, with a p-value of < 0.001 (p < 0.05). This indicates that acupressure therapy had a significant effect on reducing blood pressure in elderly patients with hypertension Conclusion: Acupressure therapy is effective in lowering blood pressure among older adults with hypertension. This non-pharmacological intervention can be considered as an alternative or complementary approach in hypertension management for the elderly population.]]>
<![CDATA[Path-Goal Leadership Style and Its Relationship with Nurse Motivation and Performance: A Cross-Sectional Study ]]>
<![CDATA[Batewa, Erny]]>;
<![CDATA[Ellina, Agusta Dian]]>;
<![CDATA[Peristiowati, Yuly]]>
<![CDATA[ International Journal of Health Concord Vol. 1 No. 2 (2025): International Journal of Health Concord ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Lembaga Chakra Brahmanda Lentera (Chakra Brahmanda Lentera Institute) [CANDLE] ]]>
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DOI: 10.55018/ihc.v12.11
<![CDATA[Background: Nursing services aim to provide optimal care through effective planning, organization, and employee management. Nurses play a key role in health services at hospitals, health centers, and other facilities. Objective: The study analyzed the relationship between the leadership of the head of the family and the work motivation and performance of nurses, based on the Path-goal theory, at the Regional General Hospital of Banggai Regency. Methods: This study employed an observational-analytic design with a cross-sectional approach, involving 146 inpatient nurses. A simple random sampling technique was used to recruit participants. Inclusion criteria included nurses working in inpatient units for at least 6 months and willing to participate, whereas nurses currently on leave, in training, or assigned to non-clinical administration were excluded. The independent variable was the head nurse's leadership style, while the dependent variables were nurse motivation and performance. Data collection and reporting followed the STROBE (Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology) guideline. Data were analyzed using the Spearman rho test with a significance level of α = 0.05 Result: The results showed that directive leadership was not associated with nurse motivation (p = 0.570) or performance (p = 0.257). However, supportive leadership significantly influenced motivation (p < 0.001) and performance (p = 0.049). Participative leadership also demonstrated a positive effect on motivation (p < 0.001) and performance (p = 0.035). Similarly, achievement-oriented leadership was associated with higher motivation (p < 0.001) and better performance (p = 0.031). Conclusion: In conclusion, directive leadership does not affect the motivation or performance of nurses at Banggai District Hospital. Conversely, supportive, participative, and achievement-oriented leadership significantly enhances both motivation and performance.]]>
<![CDATA[Effect of Mindfulness-Based Breathing Exercise Combined with Lavender Aromatherapy on Anxiety and Sleep Quality among Hemodialysis Patients: A Quasi-Experimental Study ]]>
<![CDATA[Yuwono, Trisno]]>;
<![CDATA[Ellina, Agusta Dian]]>;
<![CDATA[Prasetyo, Joko]]>;
<![CDATA[Wahyuningsih, Atik Setiawan]]>;
<![CDATA[Widyowati, Agustin]]>
<![CDATA[ International Journal of Health Concord Vol. 1 No. 2 (2025): International Journal of Health Concord ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Lembaga Chakra Brahmanda Lentera (Chakra Brahmanda Lentera Institute) [CANDLE] ]]>
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DOI: 10.55018/ihc.v12.12
<![CDATA[Background: Patients with chronic kidney failure report the sight of blood-filled dialysis tubes, the burden of routine therapy costs, fear of invasive measures, and the uncertainty of recovery triggers their anxiety. This anxiety also carries over into the home, causing difficulty sleeping at night and ongoing feelings of restlessness. Purpose. The Effect of the Combination of Mindfulness based on Breathing Exercise with Lavender Aromatherapy on Anxiety and Sleep Quality in Hemodialysis Patients Methods: This study employed a quasi-experimental pretest–posttest control-group design and was reported in accordance with the TREND guidelines for non-randomized intervention research. The target population comprised 90 hemodialysis patients at Bhayangkara Kediri Hospital, of whom 40 were selected using purposive sampling. The intervention consisted of a combination of mindfulness-based breathing exercises and lavender aromatherapy, with anxiety and sleep quality as outcome variables. Anxiety was measured using the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), and sleep quality was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), both of which have demonstrated acceptable validity and reliability in prior research. Data analysis included descriptive statistics and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test to determine pre-post differences between intervention and control groups, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Result: The general characteristics of respondents were comparable between the intervention and control groups with respect to age, sex, duration of hemodialysis, and comorbid conditions. Specific baseline characteristics related to anxiety levels and sleep disturbances were also similar across groups, indicating initial equivalence. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test showed a statistically significant improvement in anxiety (p < 0.001) and sleep quality (p < 0.001) following the intervention. These findings suggest that combining mindfulness-based breathing exercises with lavender aromatherapy may reduce anxiety and enhance sleep quality among hemodialysis patients. Conclusion: The combination of mindfulness-based breathing exercises with Lavender Aromatherapy reduces Anxiety and improves Sleep Quality in hemodialysis patients. This intervention is very easy to implement, so it can be used as a nursing intervention in the hemodialysis unit to advance nursing science.]]>
<![CDATA[Range of Motion Therapy to Improve Physical Mobility in an Ischemic Stroke Patient: A Case Study ]]>
<![CDATA[Fadlilah, Nur]]>;
<![CDATA[Septianingrum, Yurike]]>;
<![CDATA[Wijayanti, Lono]]>;
<![CDATA[Soleha, Umdatus]]>
<![CDATA[ International Journal of Health Concord Vol. 1 No. 2 (2025): International Journal of Health Concord ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Lembaga Chakra Brahmanda Lentera (Chakra Brahmanda Lentera Institute) [CANDLE] ]]>
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DOI: 10.55018/ihc.v12.14
<![CDATA[Background: Stroke is a neurological disease caused by an occlusion or hypoperfusion in the cerebral blood vessels, leading to neurological deficits and resulting in disability or death. Objective: The purpose of this case study is to describe nursing care in addressing impaired physical mobility needs by implementing Range of Motion (ROM) exercises in stroke patients, from initial assessment to evaluation Methods: This study adopted a descriptive single-case study design and was reported in accordance with the CARE (Case Report) guideline. The sampling frame consisted of one postoperative orthopedic patient who met predefined inclusion criteria, namely stable vital signs, the ability to communicate and cooperate with examination procedures, and no contraindication to range-of-motion (ROM) exercises. Data were collected through interviews, physical examination, structured observation, and review of clinical records. Functional status and motor impairment were assessed using the standardized muscle strength grading scale (Medical Research Council [MRC] scale, 0–5), along with clinical monitoring sheets to document changes in movement capacity. The intervention protocol consisted of prescribed ROM exercises—including passive-assisted and active movement techniques—administered twice daily over the observation period, with progression based on clinical tolerance and patient feedback. Result: At baseline assessment, the patient demonstrated unilateral left-sided weakness, with muscle strength graded at 3/5 for both upper and lower extremities based on the Medical Research Council (MRC) scale, indicating movement against gravity but not resistance. After three consecutive days of prescribed ROM intervention, follow-up assessment showed improvement to 4/5 in both extremities, reflecting increased capability to move against moderate resistance. Measurements were conducted by the same trained clinician using the same standardized scale to enhance reliability, although potential subjective scoring bias inherent to manual muscle testing cannot be fully excluded. Conclusion: There was an increase in muscle strength between before and after the intervention. It is expected that ROM therapy can be applied as an intervention to overcome physical mobility impairment in stroke patients.]]>
<![CDATA[Effectiveness of an IMB-Based Stunting Prevention Model Among Adolescents: A Quasi-Experimental Study ]]>
<![CDATA[Permatasari, Dian]]>;
<![CDATA[Indriyani, Ratna]]>;
<![CDATA[Hannan, Mujib]]>;
<![CDATA[Suprayitno, Emdat]]>;
<![CDATA[Puspitasari, Dian Ika]]>
<![CDATA[ International Journal of Health Concord Vol. 1 No. 2 (2025): International Journal of Health Concord ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Lembaga Chakra Brahmanda Lentera (Chakra Brahmanda Lentera Institute) [CANDLE] ]]>
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DOI: 10.55018/ihc.v12.18
<![CDATA[Background: Stunting remains a significant public health issue in Indonesia. Conventional interventions often focus on pregnancy and early childhood, showing limited sustainability. Adolescents, as prospective parents, represent a strategic target for sustainable prevention, yet evidence on effective behavior change models for this group remains limited. Methods: This quasi-experimental study adhered to the TREND guideline. Female adolescents (N=120) aged 15-20 years from schools and Islamic boarding schools in Sumenep were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n=60) that received a structured IMB-based program or a control group (n=60) that received standard education. The intervention comprised sessions on information, motivation, and behavioral skills. Dependent variables were knowledge, motivation, and behavior, measured via validated questionnaires. Data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U tests with significance at p < 0.05 Result: The intervention group showed significant improvements in knowledge (85% good post-test vs. 13.3% pre-test, p < 0.001), motivation (75% high post-test vs. 11.7% pre-test, p < 0.001), and behavior (90% good post-test vs. 11.6% pre-test, p < 0.001). The control group showed no significant changes. Conclusion: The IMB model effectively enhances stunting prevention knowledge, motivation, and behavior among adolescents. It is recommended for integration into adolescent health programs in similar LMIC settings.]]>
<![CDATA[Association Between Length of Work Experience and Spiritual Intelligence Among Adult Medical–Surgical Nurses: A Cross-Sectional Study ]]>
<![CDATA[Suwardianto, Heru]]>;
<![CDATA[Santoso, Teguh]]>;
<![CDATA[Mahyuvi, Tata]]>;
<![CDATA[Alfianto, Ahmad Guntur]]>;
<![CDATA[Amaral, Octavio Daniel Bria]]>;
<![CDATA[Pinto, Joaquim]]>;
<![CDATA[Kumar, Sesha]]>
<![CDATA[ International Journal of Health Concord Vol. 1 No. 2 (2025): International Journal of Health Concord ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Lembaga Chakra Brahmanda Lentera (Chakra Brahmanda Lentera Institute) [CANDLE] ]]>
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DOI: 10.55018/ihc.v12.21
<![CDATA[Background: Spiritual Intelligence (SI) is essential for nurses caring for critically ill surgical patients. Previous studies suggest work experience may influence SI, but the extent and specific dimensions affected remain unclear. This study addresses this gap by analyzing the relationship between work experience and four SI dimensions: Critical Existential Thinking (CET), Personal Meaning Production (PMP), Transcendental Awareness (TA), and Conscious State Expansion (CSE) Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 35 nurses working in adult surgical wards at two public hospitals in Kediri, Indonesia. Inclusion criteria were registered nurses with at least six months of experience in surgical wards; exclusion criteria were nurses on leave or with incomplete data. Purposive sampling was used. Independent variable: work experience (years); dependent variable: spiritual intelligence measured using the Spiritual Intelligence Self-Report Inventory (SISRI-24). Data analysis followed the STROBE guideline and was performed using Lambda tests with α < 0.05. Descriptive statistics were reported for key variables, including mean work experience Result: The mean work experience of participants was 7.3 ± 4.1 years. Work experience was significantly associated with Personal Meaning Production (PMP) (p = 0.034) and Conscious State Expansion (CSE) (p = 0.007), indicating that nurses with longer experience are better able to find life meaning and expand spiritual awareness. No significant relationships were observed for Critical Existential Thinking (CET) and Transcendental Awareness (TA). Conclusion: Work experience positively influences certain SI dimensions (PMP and CSE) but not others (CET and TA). These findings suggest that additional factors, such as education, personal experiences, and workplace environment, contribute to SI development. Practical implications: Healthcare institutions should implement spiritual reflection and mindfulness training to support nurses’ well-being. Future research should include larger samples and explore cultural and intervention-based influences on SI development.]]>
