School of Health Sciences hosts seventh annual Global Engagement and Research Forum

The Elon University School of Health Sciences hosted its 7th annual Global Engagement and Research Forum on Monday, Dec. 8. Students from the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program, the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (PAS) program, and the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program presented their findings to the larger community.

“I’m so proud of our students,” said Maha Lund, dean of Elon University’s School of Health Sciences. “Their research topics and the depth of the work are impressive. What it shows me is that they have learned how to access original research and resources that will help them take care of their patients.”

Twenty 3rd year DPT students presented 12 posters on topics related to their personal and professional growth while learning and exploring culturally unique healthcare settings across the world. As part of the DPTE Global Learning Opportunities program, students took DPT courses in locations across the US and around the world, including Peru, Italy, Australia, Belize and various US locations.

“We are celebrating students’ development of intercultural skills necessary to effectively work across differences, with the ultimate goal of delivering equitable, culturally responsive, and individualized healthcare,” said Paula DiBiasio, associate professor and director of the Global Learning Opportunities Program in the Department of Physical Therapy Education.

ABSN students showcased their research via eight evidence-based poster presentations on important topics, including management of pediatric migraines, family involvement in diabetic foot care, technology innovations to improve medication safety and many others. The students completed this research work as part of their “Evidence-based Nursing Practice” course.

“As these students prepare to begin professional nursing practice, it is essential that they are able to use the current research literature to provide evidence-based support for their practice,” said Associate Professor of Nursing Elizabeth Van Horn. “The students have done an excellent job of exploring and analyzing the research literature to make sound recommendations for nursing practice to improve patient care. We are all very proud of their accomplishments.”

Thirty-eight 2nd year PA students each presented their research findings at the Forum. The students presented on a wide range of topics, including but not limited to research regarding drug trials, surgical options, and new treatments for emerging medical concerns.

“These students are ready to move into their professional role as PAs and will bring this knowledge of the latest research with them in order to practice evidence-based patient care,” said Antoinette Polito, associate professor in the Department of Physician Assistant Studies.

Forty-six 1st year DPT students presented their research via 17 posters from their “Research Design III” course. The research project topics ranged from pediatric-, cardiovascular-, neurologic- and sports-physical therapy.

“These presentations are a culmination of more than 6 months of quantitative, hands-on research experience,” said Srikant Vallabhajosula, professor and research coordinator for the Department of Physical Therapy, who also teaches the course. “Each group has gone through a different journey but culminated in this wonderful conference-like experience! I am proud of their hard work and thankful to the faculty members who mentored these groups in their research endeavors. I am hoping many of these will go to national conferences to give these students a richer exposure to research and evidence-informed practice.”