Sultan Qaboos University

Transcription

1 Sultan Qaboos University College of Nursing Annual Report 2011/2012 1

2 His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said 2

3 TABLE OF CONTENT EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 5 MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN 6 Introduction 12 Vision 12 Mission 12 Core Values 12 College Goals 12 Program Objectives 13 THE COLLEGE ADMINISTRATION 13 Senior members of the College Administration 13 College Standard Committees and Membership 14 TEACHING AND LEARNING 19 Undergraduate Programs 19 Postgraduate Programs 19 Academic Advising 19 Curriculum Plan 20 Training at the Skills Laboratories 22 Teaching and Learning Strategies and Resources 22 Milestones attained by the skills laboratories 23 Additional services offered by the Nursing Skills Laboratory 23 RESEARCH AND INNOVATION 26 Major Research Activities 26 Evidence Based Nursing Activities 26 Innovations to Ehanced Research Capacity 27 COMMUNITY SERVICE 28 Summary of Community Service activities 28 Maternal and Child Health Department Community outreach 29 Community & Mental Health Department Community outreach 31 Adult & Critical Care Department Community outreach 33 Fundamentals & Administration Department Community outreach 35 QUALITY ASSURANCE 37 External Examiners Reports 37 International Accreditation Process 38 Collaborations and Networking 39 College Advisory Board Membership 39 Consultants and Visitors 40 Educational and Collaboration Visits 41 Student and staff Exchanges and attachments 42 3

4 ACADEMIC & ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF AFFAIRS 43 Academic and Administrative staff statistics 43 Awards and Recognitions 44 Appointments and Promotions 45 STUDENT AFFAIRS 45 Admissions and Graduations 47 Student Performance 47 Nursing Groups Activities 48 ALUMNI AFFAIRS 52 Board and Executive Committee 52 Current Alumni Statistics 53 Achievement of the Alumni 53 Highlights of Alumni Day 54 Internship Program 55 DEPARTMENTS OF THE COLLEGE 58 Department of Fundamentals and Administration 58 Department of Community and Mental Health 62 Department of Adult and Critical Care 65 Department of Maternal and Child Health 70 SUMMARY OF COLLEGE COMMITTE ACTIVITIES 78 College Research and Ethics Committee 78 Staff Development Committee 79 College Quality Assurance Committee 81 College Examination Grade Verification Committee 83 Examination and Evaluation Committee 83 Events, Social and Public Relations committee 83 Health and Safety Committee 84 Curriculum Committee 86 Clinical Training Committee 86 College Reports and Documentation committee 87 Strategic Planning Committee 88 MAJOR EVENTS IN THE COLLEGE IN PICTURES 89 Dean Honour Award The College Retreat Community outreach Activities Dean's Dinner Alumni Day Dinner Multicultural Potluck Lunch Graduation and Oath Taking Ceremony

5 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY In the Academic year 2011/2012, the College of Nursing (CoN) implemented its undergradute program, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program through two pathways: the regular and the bridging pathways. A total of 121 students were admitted, indicating an increase of 68.6% from the 83 students admitted in the Academic year 2010/2011. A total of 66 students also graduated in the same academic year. In addition, the number of CoN staff increased to 89. Three (3) demonstrators were sponsered to undertake Masters Program in the United States. In the same year, and three (3) demonstrators returned after succesfully completing their masters programs. In the Academic year 2011/2012, the CoN also registered an increase in the number of research projects funded by the university. We are also happy to report that faculty publications in peer reviewed journals local and international journals increased significantly. The faculty and staff attended and presented papers in various conferences, symposia, worskhops and other scholarly events within Oman and globally, indicating a positive growth in scholarship. In 2012, consistent with the culture of the college of Nursing, community outreach projects constituted a major part of our output. All the four departments succesfully organised and implemented outreach actvities which proved beneficial to both target communities and students learning. The student group and the alumni group also carried out a number of activities in and outside the University. The continous success and achievements made through the undergraduate program are the foundations into which postgraduate studies will be built. The College awaits final approval to start its proposed Master of Science in Nursing Program. In order to maintain quality of teaching and learning and resrouces, the College implemented a variety of continuing professional development activities to strengthen the capacity of its faculty and staff. The areas targeted included e-learning, evidence based practice and integration of simulation in teaching-learning activities. In July 2012, as part of its desire to attain international recognition, the CoN submitted its application for candidacy for accreditation to the US based Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), formerly the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, NLNAC. We expect initial visitation in early November We now invite you to learn more about what we have accomplished as a college in

6 MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN With great pleasure we present to you the College of Nursing Annual Report for the year As you might have already noticed, this is the second time we have released such a comprehensive annual report since our establishment as a college in In the academic year 2011/2012 we continued to register an increment in the number of students. This is in line with the university s goal of contributing to creating accessible educational opportunities for Omanis, especially those who aspire to join the noble profession of nursing at baccalaureate degree level. Our admissions have also continued to reflect our desire to give the opportunity for diploma nurses wishing to upgrade to the degree level through our shorter version, the diploma bridging pathway of the BSN program. This report reflects success stories and achievements of the College of Nursing in teaching and learning, research, student environment, international collaboration and community services among others. The report highlights tireless efforts of every body at the college, administration, faculty, staff and students. I therefore take this opportunity to thank all the administrators, the faculty, staff and students who so graciously made our progress and accomplishments over the last year memorable. We also extend our sincere appreciation and thankfullness to partner hospitals, sponsors, alumni and friends who supported our programs and initiatives. We are confident that all of you share in our success as we continue to strive to develop more nurses and nurse leaders for the Sultanate of Oman. Finally, I wish to thank in a special way all the members of the College Reports and Documentation Committee who worked tirelessly to seek, compile and collate the information required for this report. I invite you to learn more about the many accomplishments of the College presented in this report. Sincerely, Prof. Bazdawi Mohammed Said Al-Riyami Dean, College of Nursing, SQU 6

7 This report has been prepared by members of the College Reports and Documentation Committee (CRDC) Gerald Matua Amandu, Chairperson and Editor Savithri Raman, Vice Chairperson & Representative, Maternal Child Health Department SusanAchora, Secretary & Representative, Adult and Critical Care Department Mohammad Abuel-Ealeh, Editor, Member & Representative, Community & Mental Health Department Dennis Cayaban Fronda, Member & Representative, Fundamentals & Administration Department Kaukab Abdullah Al Garabi, Member & Representative, Administration & Teaching Laboratories 7

8 THE COLLEGE ADMINISTRATION DEAN Prof. Bazdawi Mohammed Said Al-Riyami Dean, College of Nursing, SQU 8

9 ASSISTANT DEANS Dr. Joshua Kanaabi Muliira, Assistant Dean, Training & Community Services Dr. Esra Al Khasawneh, Assistant Dean, Postgraduate Studies & Research Mr. Ramesh Venkatesaperumal, Assistant Dean Undergraduate Studies 9

10 EXPERT Dr. Raghda Shukri, Expert, College of Nursing, SQU DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION Ms. Badriya Al Hashar, Director of Administration Mr. Nadeem Al Zadjali Assistant Director of Administration 10

11 ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF, COLLEGE OF NURSING The Director of Administration and the Administrative staff of the College of Nursing The Director of Administration, Coordinators, Technicians, and Clerical staff of the College of Nursing 11

12 INTRODUCTION The College of Nursing is the ninth college at Sultan Qaboos University since September Presently, the College implements one degree program, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program through two pathways; the direct entry pathway and the bridging pathway. This nursing program since its inception in 2002 has contributed significantly in meeting health care demands of the Omani society by preparing competent graduate nurses who are skilled in various areas of professional nursing. The College through its quality assurance processes is committed to providing quality nursing education in accordance with international nursing education standards. These efforts have enabled the college to emerge as the premier institution in the country and the region for training nurses at degree level. It is upon this background that we have embarked on developing a Master of Science in Nursing program. Although in the early years the administration faced many challenges to fulfill the educational mission, today the college continues to attract highly qualified academic and administrative staff from across the world. The sustained efforts to improve the output of scholarly activities by individual faculty and through continuing professional development have seen the College make steady progress towards fulfilling its mission and objectives in line with the aspirations of the university and the country. THE VISION, MISSION, CORE VALUES, GOALS AND OBJECTIVES Vision The Vision of College of Nursing at Sultan Qaboos University is to be among the leading colleges in the region with high standards of nursing education, service, and research. Mission The Mission of the College of Nursing at SQU is to respond to the health care needs of the Omani society through development and execution of strong educational nursing programs, service, and research. Core Values: a. Caring b. Excellence c. Professionalism d. Diversity e. Community Service College Goals The goals of the College of Nursing reflect our overall mission of education, research, and practice to enhance the health and quality of life for all people, and as follows: a. To develop academic programs that respond to societal needs for nursing expertise. b. To provide high quality education as a foundation for lifelong learning and excellence in nursing practice. c. To develop leaders in practice, education, research and administration. 12

13 d. To lead interdisciplinary research that results in innovative approaches to improving health and illness outcomes. e. To participate in community services. f. To collaborate with international agencies. g. To nurture values of excellence, professionalism, caring, diversity and community service. Program Objectives Upon completion of Bachelor of Science in Nursing the graduates are able to demonstrate the following competencies: 1. Provide ethical and professional nursing care to individuals, families and community. 2. Utilize evidence based nursing process in provision of holistic, culture-sensitive care across life span and health illness continuum. 3. Provide leadership in the delivery, management and advancement of health care in a changing health care environment. 4. Practice effective communication skills at all levels of care. 5. Adopt critical thinking in clinical nursing practice. 6. Collaborate and work effectively with members of the multi-disciplinary health care team. 7. Demonstrate ability to learn independently THE COLLEGE ADMINISTRATION The College Administration coordinates all activities that occur within the four academic departments, other service areas of the college and the main university administration. It consists of the Office of the Dean, Director of Administration as well as the Assistant Deans for Undergraduate Studies, Postgraduate Studies & Research and Training & Community Services. The activities of the college are conducted through various committees which report to the Dean, the Chairman of the College Board. The College Board is the highest decision making organ of the college and its membership consists of officials from College Administration, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital and the four academic departments. Senior Members of the College Administration Dean s Office Professor Bazdawi Mohammed Al-Riyami, Dean Dr. Raghda Khalid Shukri, Expert Assistant Deans Dr. Esra Al Khasawneh, Postgraduate Studies and Research Dr. Joshua Kanaabi Muliira, Training and Community Services Mr. Ramesh Venkatesaperumal, Undergraduate Studies 13

14 Heads of Departments Dr. Samira Maroof Ahmad, Community & Mental Health Department Dr. Jacoba Johanna van der Colff, Fundamentals & Administration Department Dr. Ali Ahmad Ammouri, Adult Health & Critical Care Department Dr. Girija K. Madhvan, Maternal & Child Health Department Director of Administration Ms. Badriya Al Hashar, Director Mr. Nadeem Al-Zadjali, Assistant Director COLLEGE STANDARD COMMITTEES AND MEMBERSHIP 1. College Board Prof. Bazdawi Al-Riyami, Dean and Chair Dr. Raghda Shukri, Expert, College of Nursing Dr. Ahmed Al-Mandhari, Director, SQUH Mrs. Shinoona Al Harthy, Director of Nursing, SQUH Ms. Badriya Al Hashar, Director of Administration Dr. Esra Al-Khasawneh, Assistant Dean, Postgraduate Studies & Research Dr. Joshua K. Muliira, Assistant Dean, Training & Community Services Mr. Ramesh Venkatesaperumal, Assistant Dean, Undergraduate Studies Dr. Samira Maroof Ahmad, HoD, Community & Mental Health Dr. Ali Ahmad Ammouri, HoD, Adult Health & Critical Care Dr. Jacoba van der Colff, HoD, Fundamentals & Administration Dr. Girija Kalayil Madhvan, HoD, Maternal & Child Health Ms. Wasfieh Sallom, Faculty Representative, Dept of Community & Mental Health Ms. Chandarani Isac, Faculty Representative, Dept of Adult Health & Critical Care Dr. Suhaila Nain Halasa, Faculty Representative, Dept of Maternal & Child Health Dr. Amal Moh d El Badawy, Faculty Representative, Dept of Fundamentals & Administration Mr. Joseph Oyetunde, Coordinator Dean Office, Rapporteur 14

15 2. Executive Committee Prof. Bazdawi Al-Riyami (C) Dr. Raghda Shukri Ms. Badriya Al Hashar Dr. Esra Al-Khasawneh Mr. Ramesh Venkatesaperumal Dr. Joshua Muliira Dr. Samira Maroof Ahmad Dr. Ali Ahmad Ammouri Dr. Jacoba J van der Colff Dr. Girija Kalayil Madhvan 3. Curriculum Committee Dr. Ali Ammouri (C) Dr. Jacoba J van der Colff Dr. Rasha Ahmed Mr. Ramesh Venkatesaperumal Mrs. Shreedevi Balachandran Dr. Girija K.Madhvan Dr. Huda Al Awaisi (SQUH) Representative Student (Male) Representative Student (Female) 4. Examination & Evaluation Committee Dr. Ali Ammouri (C) Mr. Ephraim Mirafuentes (R) Dr. Amal El Badawy Dr. Rasha Ahmed Mrs. Jayanthi Radhakrishnan Mr. Suresh Nair Mr. Mohammad Abuel-Ealeh Mr. Roderick Cortez 5. College Quality Assurance Committee Dr. Raghda Shukri (C) Mr. Ramesh V (R) Dr. Melba D Souza Dr. Amal El-Badawy Dr. Samira Maroof Mrs. Shreedevi Balachandran Mrs. Laura Sharaiha Mrs. Jahara Hayudini Mr. Mohammad Abuel-Ealeh Mrs. Huda Al-Noumani Mrs. Naama Al-Lamki Ms. Fatma Al Dhababbai (SQUH) 15

16 6. Research and Ethics Committee Dr. Esra AlKhasawneh(C) Dr. Joshua K. Muliira Dr. Ali A. Ammouri Dr. Rasha Ahmed Dr. Girija K.Madhvan Mr. Gerald Amandu Matua (R) Mr. Yousuf Al Hasani (SQUH) 7. Advising, Probation & Scheduling Committee ADUGS, Mr. Ramesh V(C) Mrs. Chandrani Isac(R) Mr. Suresh Nair Mrs. Anandhi Amirtharaj Mrs. Joy Kabasindi Kamanyire Mrs. Huda Al Noumani Mrs. Bernardita MaGregor 8. Student Liaison Committee ADUGS, Mr. Ramesh V(C) Mr. Joshy Abraham (R) DADMIN, Ms. Badriya Al Hashar Dr. Ayman Tailakh Mrs. Wasfieh Salloom Mr. Khalid Al-Harrasi Ms. Rahma Al Harrasi Mrs. Naama Al-Lamki Student Representatives (14) 9. Staff Development Committee Dr. Melba D Souza (C) Dr. Vidya Seshan (R) Mr. Ramir Castro Mrs. Eman Shelleh Mrs. Anitha Thanka Mrs. Chandrani Isac Ms. Ruby P. Natividad Mr. Daniel Birru (SQUH) 10. Joint Clinical Training Dr. Joshua Muliira (C) Mrs. Savithri Raman Mrs. Arwa Obeidat Ms. Lina Shakman Mr. Daniel Birru (SQUH) 16

17 11. Health and Safety Committee Mrs. Shreedevi Balachandran (C) Ms. Lina Shakman (R) Mrs. Anitha Thanka Mr. Basel Abdulqader Mr. Ephraim Mirafuentes Mrs. Deepa Thomas Mrs. Susan Achora Mrs. Sumaiya Al-Kindi Ms. Kawkab Al Gharabi Ms. Asia Al Busaidi (SQUH) 12. Academic Staff Appointment Committee Prof. Bazdawi Al-Riyami (C) Dr. Raghda Shukri- Expert Ms. Badriya Al Hashar (R) Dr. Esra Al-Khasawneh Dr. Joshua Muliira Mr. Ramesh Venkatesaperumal Head of Deparmtent (Concerned) 13. Exam Grades Review Committee Mrs. Renu Geethakrishnan(C) Mrs. Shanti Ramasubramaniam Mrs.Adenike Akintola Mrs. Wasfieh Salloom Mr. Basel Abdulqader Mr. Roderick Cortez 14. Events, Social & Public Relations Committee Mrs. Rhoda Muliira (C) Mrs. Bernardita MaGregor Mrs. Sumaiya Al-Kindi Mr. Nadeem Al-Zadjali Mr. Khalid Hilal Al-Harrasi Ms. Rahma Al Harrasi 17

18 15. Laboratories Committee Dr. Joshua Muliira (C ) Mrs. Joy Kamanyire (R) Mrs. Lina Shakman Mrs. Eman Shellah Mr. Ramir Castro Mrs. Savithri Raman Mrs. Sumaiya Al-Kindi Mrs. Zakiya Al Subeihi Mrs. Samia Al Sabari Mrs. Kawkab Al Gharabi 16. Peer Review Committee Dr. Ali Ammouri (C) Dr. Mamatha Pai Dr. Rasha Ahmed Mrs. Arwa Obeidat 17. College Reports & Documentation Committee Mr. Gerald Amandu Matua (C) Mr. Mohammad Abuel-Ealeh Mr. Dennis Cayaban Fronda Mrs. Savithri Raman Mrs. Susan Achora (R) Mrs. Kawkab Al Gharabi 18. Postgraduate Studies Committee Dr. Esra Al-Khasawneh (C) Dr. Samira Maaroof Dr. Melba D Souza Dr. Ayman Tailakh Dr. Joshua Muliira Dr. Ali A. Ammouri Mr. Ramesh, V. 19. College Strategic Planning Committee Dr. Ayman Tailakh(C) Dr. Girija K.Madhvan Mrs. Savithri Raman Mr. Mohammad Abuel-Ealeh Mr. Gerald AmanduMatua 20. College Budget Committee Prof. Bazadawi Al Riyami (C) Dr. Raghda Shukri Mr. Nadeem Al Zadjali Ms. Sumaiya Al Kindi Mr. Gerald Amandu Matua 18

19 TEACHING AND LEARNING Teaching and learning is one of the three focal areas of the college, the others being research and community services. In teaching and learning, our goal is to prepare graduate nurses who are competent, compassionate, and excellent critical thinkers. We also strive to produce nurses who communicate effectively with others and who aspire to be transformational leaders within their communities upon graduation. Our training focuses on preparing students to encourage them for evidence-based practice and lifelong learning to ensure patient safety. The program ensures that our graduates play a significant role in shaping the future of health care delivery in the Sultanate of Oman. To achieve this aspiration, the academic and administrative teams at the college work in tandem to provide every student with the opportunity and unparalleled support to acquire the knowledge and skills required for safe and quality performance in their professional life. It is for this reason that we emphasise holistic and culturally sensitive approaches in delivery of care across life spans and across the health-illness continuum. This is what makes our programs and graduates attractive and competitive. Undergraduate Programs The College has one Baccalaureate program which has two entry points: A regular pathway for students entering after attaining the Secondary School Examination Certificate and a bridging pathway for nurses who are trained at Nursing Diploma level but wish to upgrade to the BSc in Nursing degree. The undergraduate program aims at preparing nurses who believe that care giving is the heart of the profession of nursing. This is why we emphasize caring in our teaching and learning activities. We deliberately prepare our students to cherish and practice nursing so that they are rooted in protecting the rights, dignity, and well-being of patients committed to their care. Postgraduate Programs We aim to match international nursing education standards, and to deliver quality-nursing education in the face of ever changing health care demands. To meet some of these challenges, we have designed a postgraduate program, the Master of Science in Nursing, now awaiting final approval. More programs are planned to help create a pool of competent and compassionate advanced practice nurses for the Sultanate of Oman. The proposed MSN program will provide graduates with knowledge, skills, and competencies to practice as a Clinical Nurse Specialist. Academic Advising Academic advising is a very crucial part of teaching and learning at the college. Every student is allocated faculty advisor during the orientation week. Advisors help students in all matters related to their studies, organization of their courses of study and personal problems with their studies. To ensure that our students benefit from academic advising, advisors meet with assigned students on a regular basis to know their needs and monitor academic progress. Advisors also help their students to plan their course loads every semester in accordance with the established curriculum plan. In order to do this role effectively, advisors regularly update and maintain the files of their assigned advisees. Further, an annual workshop is organised by the College to help advisors perform this role more effectively. 19

20 Curriculum Plan In the first semester, students enrol on the foundation courses, which are carefully designed to support students learning in advanced courses later on. The curriculum plan in this first semester enables beginning students to complete requirements for English, Mathematics and Information Technology. In subsequent semesters, the student completes requirements of prerequisite courses in biomedical and behavioural sciences. In addition, students are taught fundamentals of nursing and health assessment courses, which are laboratory based courses before commencing further clinical training. A practical session in Fundamentals of Nursing and Health Assessment courses in skills laboratory at College of Nursing In the clinical years, students take various courses such as Adult Health Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, Maternal and Child Health Nursing, Community Health Nursing, Critical Care Nursing, Nursing Administration and Advanced Clinical Nursing. These courses are arranged in logical sequence to enable students in the final semester provide comprehensive nursing care under clinical supervision. The teaching sessions are composed of theoretical sessions in the college, clinical bedside teaching in the hospitals and the community, as well as self-directed learning opportunities created by the students with support from the faculty. The various learning sessions are supported using an array of up to date teaching and learning resources within the college, teaching hospitals, and the university as a whole. The leadership of the college is committed to ensuring that students have the requisite human and material resources to support student teaching and learning, with particular emphasis on clinical skills. 20

21 College of Nursing Students entertaining parents and their children at Carrefour during a community outreach event Our program operates using a credit system and the student completes his/her studies after successfully completing 130 credits for students enrolled on the regular program and 67 credits for diploma students who are enrolled on the bridging pathway. Dr. Samira Maroof, leading graduating nursing students during the Oath Taking Ceremony in

22 Teaching and Learning Strategies and Resources The college uses a variety of teaching learning activities to strengthen theoretical and clinical teaching. The strategies used during classroom, laboratory and clinical teaching include evidence based learning, reflection, critical thinking, e-learning and hybrid formats involving a combination of traditional pedagogical strategies. The use of e-learning as an educational tool in the college is expanding yearly. For instance, in 2012 over 30 courses blended their teaching with e-learning facilities offered by Moodle. There is also continuous improvement of clinical instruction of the students, ensuring that students are given guidance, mentoring, clinical instruction and preceptorship from the faculty assigned in each clinical area. The clinical training hours ensures attainment of skills and professional competencies, so that by the time a student completes the BSN program they have attained sufficient time in the labs. The clinical training ensures there is linkage between theory and practice, thereby enhancing students clinical competencies for nursing practice. This clinical placement is facilitated by the Joint clinical training committee of the College in collaboration with the designated hospital training sites. The hospitals include Sultan Qaboos University Hospital (SQUH); Khoula Hospital ( KH); Royal Hospital ( RH); Armed Forces Hospital ( AFH); Ibn Sina Hospital (ISH); Ministry of Health Health Centers at Al-Khod, Al- Hail, Al-Seeb, and Mawaleh and various communities in and around Muscat Governorate. Training at the Skills Laboratories A key component of the skills training at the College of Nursing occurs at the skills laboratories, located in the ground floor in the college building. The skills laboratories are a replica of actual clinical settings and provide learners with an opportunity to integrate theory into practice, to think critically and to ensure patient safety. The skills labs are equipped with various up-to-date simulation equipment, human size training models, and manikins to teach students different skills and procedures. The labs are designed to facilitate acquisition of basic clinical skills related to Fundamentals of Nursing, Child Health Nursing, Maternity, Adult Critical Care nursing, and Community Mental Health Nursing. Ms. Samia, Ms. Zakiya and Ms. Kawkab and Ms Sumaiya, Laboratory Technicians, at the College of Nursing, busy setting up the simulation manikin ahead of a practical session 22

23 Milestones attained by the skills laboratories The major achievements by the Nursing skills laboratories in 2012 include the following: a. Centralisation of the nursing skills from department based labs to one central teaching learning resource that services all departments of the college including external stakeholders. b. Increased the staffing levels from 2 to 4 nursing laboratory technicians. c. Updated the College s website with skills laboratory page to facilitate easy access to information and policies pertaining to the usage of the lab resources d. Updated and developed nursing skills lab policies, forms and other documents to streamline lab based teaching, learning, and related activities. e. Purchased new equipments and supplies to improve the functionality of the laboratories Additional services offered by the Nursing Laboratory In addition to the regular duties of training the Baccalaureate students, the team also offers, additional services and these include the following: Basic first aid training in areas such as Role of first aider, Anaphylaxis, Burns, Cardiac arrest, Choking, Cramps, Heart Attack, Heat stroke, Heavy bleeding, Hypo/Hyperglycaemia, Insect bites, Seizures, Stroke, Wounds, Bleeding, Snake bites Simulation of hospital environment for doctors undertaking MRCP examination. This simulation involves use of actual patients with nurses from SQUH to run the entire exam process. Ms Jahara Hayudini, demonstrates to students a practical skill in one of the Nursing skills laboratories 23

24 Clinical Instructors facilitating students learning during a general demonstration in the Nursing Skills laboratory Clinical instructors preparing students for a practical teaching session in the Nursing skills laboratory Information Technology (IT) facilities In addition to the up-to-date nursing skills laboratories, the college also has three well-equipped computer labs located in the ground floor of the college building. These 3 labs contain 131 computers all of which are connected to the high speed internet. The computers have software to support students academic activities. The computer labs are available to students from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm and the technical staffs are always available for students to consult. These computers have proved to be very instrumental in enhancing student directed learning activities especially those that require internet connection. 24

25 A cross section of one of the three fully equipped Computer Laboratories at the College of Nursing The computer laboratories are managed by a team of 2 dedicated technicians. The technicians provide technical support to students, academic as well as administrative staff. The computer lab technicians also have the responsibility to help students improve their IT skills, including assisting them with technical aspects of some of their assignments. In addition to the computers, the college also has a number of equipment s such as LCD projectors for conducting teaching learning sessions. Computer Technicians, Mr. Zayid Al Mahrooqi, and Mr. Abdulmutalib Al Hinai performing routine checks In addition to the regular responsibilities, the IT technicians also provide technical support during community outreach activities such as during school health visits and other related college events. 25

26 RESEARCH AND INNOVATION In the College, efforts related to research, scholarship and innovation are being spearheaded by Dr. Esra Al Khasawneh, the Assistant Dean for Postgraduate Studies and Research. The research activities and research outputs of the College have continued to grow steadily. In the year 2012, number of funded studies grew from one (1) in 2011 to 11 in 2012 and research funding from US$ 4, 810 to US$ 46,150. In the same manner, publications in national and international refereed journals increased from 15 to 29, reflecting a 52% increment. In this section, the major research activities, funded projects, and innovations in the college are highlighted: Major Research Activities In the period September 2011 to August 2012; the major research related activities undertaken were: Exploring opportunities for regional and international research partnerships and collaborations Training workshop focusing on building international research collaborations Workshop on using electronic reference managers such as endnote and writing for publication Workshop on grant writing and writing winning research proposals Establishing an electronic data base of faculty publications and conference presentations In the same period, five (5) research studies received university funding, including the following: Preceptor study: PI: Mr. Amandu Gerald Hypertension Awareness: PI: Dr Ayman Tailak Knowledge Experiences Barriers to cancer screening: PI: Dr Joshua Muliira Effect of an educational intervention on anaemia:. PI: Dr. Esra A. Effectiveness of Childbirth Education Intervention on Anxiety: PI: Dr. Girija K. Effect of Postnatal Exercise on the Health Related Fitness Status of Omani Women: PI: Dr. Raghda Shukri Evidence Based Nursing The college is strongly committed to entrenching the culture of evidence-based practice among its faculty and students. We foster this through our academic programs, which aim at improving healthcare outcomes and providing student-centered, evidence-based, and innovative educational programs. Furthermore, all faculty and students are encouraged to integrate scientific evidence in their teaching, in both clinical areas as well as in theoretical courses to improve patient, health provider, community, and health system outcomes. Every academic staff contributes to students appreciation of evidence-based practice in their clinical practice through building knowledge and skills and through scholarly practice built into various courses in the curriculum. As part of the students assignments and projects in both clinical and theoretical courses, students are required to review relevant and up-to-date literature on particular topics and develop evidenced based projects or reports on specific topics. Finally, through these courses, especially the graduation project, students are encouraged to use current research in an attempt to ensure familiarity with the process. This helps them upon graduation to feel more confident and be more willing to engage in evidence based nursing. 26

27 Innovations for Research Capacity The college encourages the faculty and adminitration to get involved in subtle innovations that make the attainment of our vision a reality. In the areas of research, the college through the office of the Assistant Dean for Postgradaute Affairs and Research has undertaken the two main innovative projects: Creation of Specialized Research Groups: This innovation entails research groups consisting of senior faculty working with junior faculty. Under the guidance of a PhD faculty, the research group works on a specialised research area. The teams are encouraged to work together with special focus on developing the research capacity of Masters faculty, whose expertise is largely clinical nursing skills. This innovation is expected to increase the participation of the faculty in research and scholarly activities and particularly the publication profile of the College. Clinical Omani Nurses Research Capacity Building Project: This innovation comes handy to address the research readiness and skills gap among the clinical Omani nurses currently working in health facilities in the Muscat Governorate and surrounding areas where the undergraduate nursing students go for their clinical placements. This project involves senior faculty at the College of Nursing twinning with Omani clinical practice nurses with the aim of mentoring and training them in the discipline of nursing and health research. Currently, there are eleven (11) such twining groups. Dr. Esra Al Khasawneh, the Assistant Dean for Postgraduate Studies and Research facilitating at a Specialized Research Group meeting at the College of Nursing 27

28 COMMUNITY SERVICE The college is committed to be involved in the welbeing of the communities in which the students and the faculty and administrators live. The CON has continued to be active in community services and this has helped in strengthening community partnerships, creating awareness and enhancing knowledge about health to ensure a healthy Omani population. Implementation of these activities is considered as a significant aspect in all departments. The College has a senior faculty assigned as chair for community activities. We are proud that through our community partnerships and community activities we have been able to meet our obligations of community service and increased our visibility in the community. In the year 2012, as shown in Table 1, the college was involved in a number of events that support our mission of being relevant to the Omani society. We always encourage our students to be central as way of helping them develop a sense of reponsibility and pride in giving back to the community they come from, which is key to social transformation skills development. SN Community Activity Month/ Year Venue of activity Details of Community Activities Estimated Beneficiaries 1. World Mental Health Day Oct 2011 Faculty Club, SQU Seminar Faculty and students 2. World Mental Health Day Oct Osteoporosis-Omani Women Day Oct 2011 Tarbiya Al Fikriya School, Al Khuwair College of Nursing Symposium Risk assessment and prevention of Osteoporosis 40 Parents, School staff, 16 nursing students 40 people participated Community Project- Community Assessment- Rural Community project: Caring for the aged Dec 2011 April 2012 Wadi Qurai Village Community & Wadi Beni Rawaha Health Centre-Samail Izki village, Nizwa Area Assessment Health Centre Visit Health Assessment & Health Education Health assessment of adult and older Omani people Health education 100 people participated 100 people attended Table 1. Community service activities conducted between September 2011 and end of August

29 Maternal and Child Health Department Community outreach in Barka High School, Barka, 2012 Faculty and students of Maternity and Child health department engaging with students of Barka High School in 2012 Faculty of the Maternity and Child Health department giving students instructions during a community event in

30 Students of the Maternity and Child Health department preparing themselves during a community event in 2012 Students of the Maternity and Child Health department taking vital signs of the students of Barka High School during a community event 30

31 Community & Mental Health Department celebrates World Mental Health Day at SQUH Prof. Bazdawi Al Riyami, the Dean, CON poses with Dr. Samira Maroof, Head, Community and Mental Health Department, CON and Mr. Lee of Sultan Qaboos University Hospital at other faculty during a community Outreach activity at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital in 2012 Dr. Samira Maroof, Head, Community and Mental Health Department, CON cuts the tape as Ms.Wasfieh and Mr. Mohammed look on during a community Outreach activity at Carrefour, Al Seeb Muscat, in

32 Students of Community and Mental Health Department, attending to a client during a community Outreach activity at Carrefour, Al Seeb Students of Community and Mental Health Department giving a health education talk during a home visit outside Muscat, in

33 Adult & Critical Care Department Community Outreach,Carrefour, City Centre, Sept 2012 Faculty and students of Adult and Critical Care Department during a Community outreach event in Carrefour, City Centre, in 2012 Faculty of Adult and Critical Care Department attending to the public during community outreach in Carrefour, City Centre, in

34 A student of Adult and Critical Care Department explains a parent during a community outreach in Carrefour, in 2012 A section of faculty, students and members of the public during the community event in Carrefour, City Centre, in

35 Fundamentals & Administration Department communityoutreach, Izki Wilyat, Dakhiliyah, April 2012 Faculty and students of Fundamentals and Administration Department receive Guest of Honour in Izki Wilyat, Dakhiliyah, 2012 Dr. JJ vander Colff, Head, Fundamentals and Administration and students attending to a community member during a community outreach in Izki Wilyat, Dakhiliyah region,

36 Community leaders with faculty and students at the end of a community outtreach program in Izki Wilyat, 2012 A section of faculty relaxing after Fundamentals and Administration department community outtreach program in Izki Wilyat, in

37 QUALITY ASSURANCE The College of Nursing in addition to contributing to national building and skills and knowldge development of students, is committed to becoming a centre of excellence in teaching, research and community service. The quality assurance efforts in the College are speareheaded by College Quality Assurance Committee (CQAC) under the leadership of Dr. Raghda Shukri, expert and committee chair. The quality assurance efforts aim to ensure quality education for the students, and the faculty and staff outputs, which meet international standards. In 2012, the College has been focussing on curricular aspects, teaching, learning, and evaluation; research and consultancy; infrastructure and learning resources; student support and progression; governance and leadership and innovative practices to help institutionalise the culture of quality in the life of the College. Policy development and organising of Annual College retreats have also been some main engagements of Quality Assurance in the College. This section highlights activities of the period 2012 related to external examiners, college accreditation process, collaborations and networking, which are important measurements for quality attainment: External Examiners Reports In efforts to assure the quality and standards of our teaching, the College hosts External Examiners, from reputable universities every semester to examine our final year students during exit examinations in the Advanced Clinical Nursing course. These examiners provide feedback and recommendations related to the program, teaching learning, student evaluation, and related aspects, to improve our quality of teaching, learning, research, administration and community service. The following are some of the highlights of the comments and recommendations of the year 2012: The leadership of the Dean and interdisciplinary partnership within the college commended The focus of the College on nursing science is highly commended and should be upheld The examination processes were rigorous and extremely well organized The cooperation between faculty and hospital nurses in supporting students is commended Efforts should be made to improving research integration in the bridging (diploma) program Evidence based practice should be threaded further through the nursing curricula More emphasis should be placed on nursing ethics in relevant courses in the curriculum Clinical exam time during final examination should be increased to allow students more time Unsafe practice guidelines should be integrated in all clinical courses in the curriculum The external examiners expressed satisfaction with the fact that the College was seeking accreditation with a US based accreditation body. This was seen as an important milestone for the college to be seen as operating at international standards. They wished the college well in this great aspiration. 37

38 R-L: Prof. Bazdawi Al Riyami, the Dean, CON with external examiners Dr. Jeremy(UK); Prof. Ruppert, (USA) Prof. Nyamathi (US) Sandra (US), and Dr Raghda Shukri, Expert, CON after Dean s Dinner with External examiners in Shangrila Resort in 2012 Dr. International Accreditation Process The college has been under the auspices of Prof. Bazdawi Al Riyami and Dr. Raghda Shukri deeply inolved in securing international accreditation for the College of Nursing. In August 2012, the college submitted the application for candidacy to the National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), a USA based body. These efforts towards accreditation was facilitated by the consultancy services of Prof. Marianne Hattar who visited the college twice in March 2012 and in July 2012 to provide suggestions and recommendations regarding the Self Study Report and candidacy application. This is a major achievement in the quality assurance process. The college now awaits the coming of the inspectorate team in November R-L: Prof. Bazdawi Al Riyami, Dean addresses faculty and staff during College retreat at City Seasons Hotel, Muscat as the Consultant, Prof. Marianne Hattar, looks on in March

39 Collaborations and Networking In 2012, the college continued to network and collaborate with various institutions and individuals to stregthen its position of being a premier instituion of higher nursing education in Oman and the region. The advisory board comprising senior Omani officials was consitituted and linkages were established with several institutions and individuals in various capacities as consultants, visitors and examiners. Prof. Bazdawi Al Riyami, Dean (2nd left) and Dr Raghda Shukri, Expert (4th right) with College Advisory Board in 2012 College Advisory Board The College of Nursing continues to work towards its vision and mission by benefiting from the expert advice and opinions of consultants drawn from different instituions within the Sultanate of Oman. This is done to ensure that our products, the students are trained to fit within the expectations of the country. The current membership of the advisory board consists of the following high ranking officials: S.N Name Official position Organization 1 Ms. Sharifa Saif Al Jabri President Oman Nursing and Midwifery Council, Muscat 2 Mr. Mohammed N.Al - Riyami Nursing Education Consultant Director General of Education and Training 3 Dr. Majid Al-Maqbali 4 Ms. Shinoona Al-Harthy Director of Nursing and Midwifery Affairs Acting Deputy Director of Nursing Affairs 5 Honourable, (Dr.) Nadiya Hassan Al-Wardi Head, Medical Education Unit 6 Dr. Naila Lamky Vice President, Academic Affairs DGHA, Ministry of Health Directorate of Nursing Affairs, Sultan Qaboos University Dept. of Biochemistry, COM&HS, Sultan Qaboos University Oman Medical Speciality Board 7 Dr. Rabbie e Al-Rashdy Chief Nursing Officer Armed Force Medical Services 8 Ms. Fatma M. Al Massori Director of Nursing 9 Honourable, Yuthar M. Al-Rawahi Founder and Chaiperson Royal Hospital, Muscat Oman National Association for Cancer Awareness 10 Prof. Bazdawi Al Riyami, Dean College of Nursing, SQU 11 Dr. Raghda Shukri Expert College of Nursing, SQU 39

40 Prof. Bazdawi Al Riyami and Dr Raghda Shukri, with College Advisory Board fostering collaboration with the community Consultants and Visitors In 2012, the college benefited from a number of consultants and visitors who came to the College to pursue different objectives. As is the culture with the college, all were warmly recieved and various staff were assigned to ensure they acheived their objectives. The visits related to internaltional accreditation external examination, and academic visits by various professionals and students. Prof. Marianne Hattar, Consultant for the National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission, (NLNAC) gestures during the Collegeof Nursing retreat at City Seasons Hotel, Muscat, March

41 Educational and collaborative visitors Prof. Marianne Hattar, Consultant, International Accreditation of the College of Nursing Prof. Susan Ruppert, External Examiner, University of Texas, USA Prof. Barbara Wolfe, External Examiner, Boston College, USA Prof. Adey Nyamathi, External Examiner, University of California, Los Angeles, UCLA, USA Dr. Sandra Engberg, External Examiner; University of Pittsburgh, USA Dr. Jeremy Jolly, External Examiner; University of Hull, United Kingdom Drs. Anahid Kulwicki /Helen Cornely with 11 students from Florida International University, USA Dr. Ruth McDermott Levy along with 2 students from Villanova University, USA Ms. Maryam Adebayo from University of Pittsburgh, USA A Group of the External Examiner with the College of Nursing Faculty after a briefing meeting in

42 Student Exchange and Attachement In 2012 the College received Mr Soroud Amin, a student nurse from the University of Hull, in the UK. This was the first time the college received such a student from a foreign university with which the CON has a formal memorandum of understanding. The CON was happy to welcome him and actively facilitated his clinical learning at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital to enable him achieve his objectives. Dr. Joshua K. Muliira and Mr. Gerald M. Amandu interviewing Mr. Soroud Amin, the student nurse from the University of Hull, UK In his farewell interview Mr. Soroud said, I had a fantastic trip and thoroughly enjoyed my experience at the college and in the Sultanate of Oman. He thanked Dr, Joshua, the College contact person and the Dean of college of nursing as well as the entire college team for welcoming him to SQU and giving him the opportunity to experience how nursing care is delivered in Oman hospitals. To improve student exchange programs, in the future, Mr. Soroud recommended the following: a dedicated mentor for international students to enhance their clinical experience; arrangements to attend lectures to have an idea about how teaching is done at the college As part of the feedback process, Mr Soroud was accorded opportunity to meet with the Nursing administrators at SQUH where he gave feedback about his experience and quality of nursing care. 42

43 ACADEMIC AND ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF AFFAIRS A cross section of Academic and Adminitrative Staff during Dean s Dinner at City Season Hotel, 2012 The faculty and administrative staff is multinational and made of experienced professionals from Oman, India, Jordan, Australia, South Africa, Uganda, Nigeria, Philippines, USA, Egypt, UK and Iraq. The faculty has diverse specialties and clinical experiences gained from different backgrounds. These well qualified academic and administrative staff bring with them vast experince, specialisations and expertise, which they use to enhance Omanisation in line with national strategy for human resource development. ACADEMIC AND ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF STATISTICS In 2012, there were 86 academic and administrative staff, 50 expartiates and 36 Omani nationals. Academic Staff Staff Distribution Total in 2012 % in 2012 Academic Non-Academic Total In the year 2012, we had 24 administrative staff of which 3 were expartiates and 21 Omani nationals! Administrative staff Staff Distribution Total in 2012 % in 2012 Omanis Expatriates Total

44 AWARDS AND RECOGNITION Ms Shreedevi Balachandran, Best Teacher Award, 2012 Dr. Samira Maroof Ahmed, Best Teacher Award, 2011 Ms. Shreedevi Balachandran, Clinical Instructor, Adult and Critical Care Department receiving Best Teacher Award, 2012 Dr. Samira Maroof Ahmed, Head, of the Community and Mental Health Department receiving Best Teacher Award,

45 APPOINTMENTS AND PROMOTIONS In 2012, the following appointments and promotions took place in various sections of the College to ensure our continued improvment and better delivery of services to the students and the community. Ms. Badriya Al Hashar, as Director of Administration Dr. Ali Ahmad Ammouri, as Head of the Adult Health & Critical Care Department Dr. Girija Kalayil Madhvan, as Head of the Maternal & Child Health Department Ms. Wasfieh Sallom, Faculty Representative, Dept of Community & Mental Health Ms. Chandarani Isac, Faculty Representative, Dept of Adult Health & Critical Care Dr. Suhaila Nain Halasa, Faculty Representative, Dept of Maternal & Child Health Dr. Amal Moh d El Badawy, Faculty Representative, Dept of Fundamentals & Administration STUDENT AFFAIRS Students at the College of Nursing are involved in a number of ways in teaching, learning, and administrative activities of the college. The curriculum committee has two students representatives while the Student Liaison committee includes 14 students representing each cohort. The liaison committee deals with student s issues and concerns related to academics, curriculum, facilities, policies, and extracurricular activities. Academic advisors play a pivotal role in providing guidance in academic matters. An active student s association (Nursing student group) is also actively involved in student functioning and well supported by the college, through assigned academic faculty and administrative staff, who regularly coordinate the work of the student s group. The student representatives were encouraged to actively report academic and non-academic matters to the Dean, the Director or her deputy, Cohort advisors and others using the existing channels of communication. College of Nursing Students participating in a discussion with members of a family during a home visit as part of their learning 45

46 In addition to the wide range of activities that students at the college of nursing undertake, they have established with the support and guidance of the Dean, faculty and staff at the college, a professional magazine called Nabth Hayah. It is published once each semester. The contents are all written by the student nurses and focus on various health matters, nursing issues, current professional news and developments, advice and guidance including spiritual aspects. The target audience includes students, faculty and staff throughout Sultan Qaboos University and beyond. Two issues have been published to date and they have received wide acclaim and recognition including by the Vic Chancellor of the University. 46

47 ADMISSIONS AND GRADUATIONS In 2012, 100 undergraduate students were admitted directly from high school, while 20 diploma nurses received admission into the bridging program. In the same year, 66 students graduated and are currently undertaking internship in various parts of the world, after which they will seek employment in the hospitals and other health facilities throughout the Sultanate of Oman. Dr. Samira Maroof Ahmed, Head, Community & Mental Health Department during Oath taking ceremony, 2012 STUDENT PERFORMANCE Student Performance based on GPA The concerted efforts by academic and administrative staff of the college continue to show in the student satisfactory performance in their end of semester results and exit examinations. GRADE POINT SEMESTER AVERAGE, GPA RANGE Fall 2011 Spring 2012 Summer 2012 Grand Total < > Grand Total Student Performance based on probation In 2012, compared to the previous years the College of Nursing continued to make efforts to reduce the number of students on probation. As shown in graph 1 below, it is evident that the number of students going into probation has continued to reduce. 47

48 Percentages College of Nursing Probation Trends % % 9.58% 8.63% 7.31% 7.8% Fall 2009 Spring 2010 Fall 2010 Spring 2011 Fall 2011 Spring 12 Semesters In an effort to enhance student s performance, the College through its Academic Advising and Probations committee continued to implement the following interventions to address probation issues: Interviewing all students under probation each semester Advising students to repeat courses with low grades Obliging students under probation to reduce their semester course load to less than 12 credits Referring students with identified problems to a university students counsellor Requiring such students to meet with their respective advisors regularly Formulating suitable alternative study plans for every advisee under probation Requiring faculty to conduct additional tutorials to help students remedy in areas of weakness Encouraging students under probation to work with high performing students for peer support Ensuring cohort advisors work with Academic Advisors to follow up students under probation Conducting workshops for faculty about probation, advising and services at the college Collaborating with College Administration and ADUGS to support and help such students THE NURSING STUDENT GROUP ACTIVITIES In 2012, nursing student group continued to be vibrant performing various activities throughout the year, among them, the nursing week, university day, international nurses day, annual sport day as well as community outreach programs and activities. The student group dedicated itself to promoting professionalism and leadership for SQU nursing students, promoting ties among students of all levels to strengthen professional standards among students as future members of the nursing profession. The group also provided opportunities for students to serve the local community and to build relationships. They also participated and represented the university at national and international events in addition to monthly meetings and social events as opportunities for students to network and interact with each other and others in the college and the community. 48

49 Summary of Nursing Group Community Activities in 2012 All Community 750 Outside Community 1230 SQU Community 650 CON Community Number of Participants per community A graphic presentation of community activities undertaken by the Nursing Group and average number of beneficiaries In 2012 several extracurricular activities were conducted including activities targeting new students among them orientation programs, nursing week events, self-improvement lectures, radio broadcast training, and increasing community awareness of road traffic accidents in Oman. In total these student group initiated activities benefited a total of about 3548 individuals over the past academic year. Dr. Said bin Ali bin Suleiman Al-Yahyaee, SQU Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Community Service and Prof. Bazdawi Al Riyami, Dean, touring a stall by CON students during a community event within the college Nursing 49

50 College of Nursing Students providing nutritional information to high school students during a community event in 2012 A section of the student organizers of the Nursing Group after a community event at the College of Nursing in

51 Summary of the Nursing Student Group Activities-Year 2012 Activity Period Avenue Number Of Organizers/ Volunteers Number Of Participants/ Attendants 1 Health Fair at Daleel Petroleum Family Day Event 2/2/2012 Al Nahda Resort First Aid Workshop 22/2/2012 College of Nursing Photoshop Workshop 25/2/2012 College of Nursing Open Day for Special Needs 5/3/2012 College of Nursing Health Fair in collaboration with Deanship of Student Affairs and Nutrition Students Group 25/3/2012 SQU Complex I Publishing the first issue of Nursing Group Magazine Pulse of life 9-12/ 2012 College of Nursing Copies 7 Nursing Week 25-28/3/2012 College of Nursing Nursing Got Talent Competition 31/3/2012 College of Nursing First Aid Event in collaboration with Alkhoudh Health Center 10/4/2012 Alkhouh Health Center Radio Broadcast Training Workshop 26-28/6/ 2012 College of Nursing Lecture on Strategies for Holy Quran Memorizing 25/7/ 2012 College of Nursing New Students Orientation and Entertainment Ceremony 18/9/2012 College of Nursing Nursing Group Activity Station at Students Activities Exhibits 2/10/2012 Deanship of Student Affairs First Aid Workshop For Providers 7-8/10/2012 College of Nursing 5 36 Table 2. Student Group Activities conducted between September 2011 and August

52 ALUMNI AFFAIRS The College of Nursing s Alumni Association started in 2008 with 43 members. The first Alumni Association meeting was held on 24/2/2011 at Grand Hyatt Hotel in Muscat and during this meeting, the current CON Alumni Board and executive committee was elected. The number of Alumni has now increased to more than 300, which gives the alumni association great hope and anticipation about the future. The goal of the Alumni Association is to establish links between the graduates and the college. The specific objectives of the Alumni Association are to: Strengthen links and networks among the graduates. Establish links between graduates and the existing students of the CON. Foster conducive environment for sharing professional knowledge among the Alumni. Recognize meritorious performance of students through award of prizes. Organize social events for alumni, students, faculty, and community members. Serve as a resource group in activities of the CON at SQU. ALUMNI BOARD AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP Patron: Prof. Bazdawi Al Riyami, Dean College of Nursing Advisor: Dr. Raghda Shukri, Expert, College of Nursing Faculty Coordinator: Dr. Joshua Muliira, Asst. Dean Training & Community Service Executive Committee Members: President: Mr. Mohammed Al-Breiki Vice President: Ms. Ganima Al-Zabi Secretary: Mr. Faisal Al-Hadidi Fund Raising Committee: Ms. Samira Al-Siyabi Treasurer: Mr. Hassan Al-Riyami Public Relation Committee: Ms. Suad Al-Mukhini Research Committee: Ms. Kawkab Al-Garibi Con. Education Committee: Mr. Mubarak AL-Sad Social Committee: Mr. Mohammed Al-Abdulsalam Sport Committee: Mr. Sami Al-Fari Network Committee: Mr. Rashid Al-Mamri 52

53 CURRENT STATISTICS OF THE CON ALUMNI BSN Graduates- Alumni Year (Total = 260) Number Diploma Bridging Graduates-Alumni Year (Total =47) Number ACHIEVEMENT OF THE ALUMNI The following were the achievements of the Alumni Group: Conducted four executive committee meetings. Started initial work on updating the alumni webpage hosted on the CON website to increase alumni visibility and publicity. Started work on the alumni magazine. Organized the second alumni Day on 21 st /05/2012 at Shangri La Hotel Resort. Established a face book page (current total enrolment = 55) to ensure that alumni stay in touch with each other ( Individual Alumni Achievements: 4 people graduated with Masters in Nursing. 4 people have been at the rank of lecturer in the CON. 2 people are currently undertaking Masters Studies in Nursing. Alumni from first and second graduating cohort at SQUH promoted from SN2 to SN1. 53

54 HIGHLIGHTS OF ALUMNI DAY The alumni day was held on 21 st /05/2012 at Shangri La Hotel Resort. The event was attended by 28 alumni, Dean, Expert, CON faculty, 2 external examiners, Prof. Adey Nyamathi, USA and Dr. Jeremy Jolley, UK and Dr. Huda Al Waisi (SQUH). The key activities of the alumni day included: Dean s speech about active participation in CON and alumni activities. Report about executive committee activities and plans. Presentation by Dr. Huda Al Waisi about the contribution of CON alumni to the Omani health care system: exemplars from SQUH. Presentation by Dr. Jeremy Jolley about the role of nursing alumni to its college and professional nursing community. Feedback from the Alumni about teaching and learning at the CON. A section of the Pioneer Nursing Alumni of the College of Nursing during a recent Alumni Dinner in Muscat, 2011 The Dean, Faculty, Administrators and Alumni of the College of Nursing during Alumni Dinner in Muscat,

55 Number Of Students INTERNSHIP PROGRAM After completing their course requirements of the College of Nursing, students are required to complete a 6-month period of internship before seeking employment as a registered nurse. The internship program is designed to allow the interns to rotate through specific clinical areas to strengthen their clinical competencies and to facilitate a smooth transition from academic to practice environment. The internship period also enables students to transition smoothly from performing nurse student roles to performing staff nurse roles. Therefore, the internship program provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate competence in technical skills, clinical judgment and critical thinking skills when providing comprehensive nursing care. This experience enables students to practice nursing in different countries to broaden their horizons professionally and socially. Four (4) months of the internship period are dedicated to clinical practice within the Sultanate of Oman, mainly at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital (SQUH), where the nurse interns rotate in Medical and Surgical wards. The remaining two (2) months are dedicated to the internship abroad program in hospitals affiliated to reputable international universities. The students who are unable to go for the internship abroad continue their internship at SQUH with posting in Paediatric or Maternity wards. In 2012, a total of 51 students were sent for the internship abroad program in various reputable institutions among them; California School of Health Sciences (CSHS) in USA; University of Cardiff (UoC) in UK; as well as the Global Hospitals Chennai (GHC) in India, where the students were exposed to different learning environments and expertise as shown in the graphic presentation below Distribution of Students by Gender and Internship Abroad Site, CSHS CARDIFF HULL GLOBAL HOSPITAL Internship Abroad Site MALE FEMALE TOTAL The faculty or staff of the international university or affiliated hospitals provide necessary resources and facilities for the interns, and closely supervise and evaluate their clinical performance. The resources provided include a qualified clinical preceptor under whose guidance the interns accomplish their objectives. The feedback and evaluation report from the university/affiliated hospitals is highly regarded and is an important part of the overall evaluation of the internship program and interns performance. 55

56 A Group of Female Intern Nurses at the California School of Health Sciences, USA during Internship abroad program, 2012 Intern Nurses orienting by Instructor at California School of Health Sciences, USA during Internship abroad program

57 A Group of Intern Nurses at the Cardiff Hospital, UK during Internship abroad program, 2012 The Cardiff Hospital, UK, where 12 CON students had their Internship abroad training program 57

58 DEPARTMENTS OF THE COLLEGE OF NURSING The College of Nursing implements its academic responsibilities through four departments, namely the departments of Fundamentals of Nursing and Administration, Adult Health and Critical Care, Maternal and Child Health and the Department of Community and Mental Health. Each of these four departments is responsible for implementing and managing certain courses within the curriculum plan. A. THE DEPARTMENT OF FUNDAMENTALS AND NURSING ADMINISTRATION (FNA) This department offers courses for students at both entry (Fundamental Nursing and Health Assessment) and exit levels (Nursing Administration) to equip them with knowledge, attitude and skills to work in various practice areas and to develop as professional nurses with firm commitment to lifelong service and learning. The Administration course is offered to senior students to assist them in developing management and leadership skills. The department further facilitates the running of other courses taught by faculty in other Colleges and departments of the university, e.g. College of Medicine. Departmental Faculty as of December 2012 Name of Faculty Position of Faculty 1 Dr. JJ van der Colff - Assistant Professor Head of Department 2 Dr. Amal Moh'd El Badawy Assistant Professor 3 Mrs. Jahara Noor Ali Hayudini Clinical Instructor 4 Mrs. Arwa Atef Sultan Obeidat Clinical Instructor 5 Mrs. Jayanthi Radhakrishnan Lecturer 6 Mrs. Laura Lutfi Jeires Sharaiha Lecturer 7 Mr. Ramir Certeza Castro Lecturer 8 Mr. Dennis Cayaban Fronda Lecturer 9 Mr. Gerald Amandu Matua Lecturer 10 Ms. Jansi Natarajan Lecturer 11 Ms. Maria Beatriz Yambao Lecturer 12 Ms. Asma Salim Mohammed Al-Yhyaei Demonstrator 13 Mr. Sulaiman Dawood Sulaiman Al-Sabei Demonstrator 58

59 Highlights of the Period Past Faculty Ms. Ghada Sami Maamoun Sayed Gouda Lecturer (Fall Summer 2012) Present Faculty : Entrants in Fall 2012 Ms. Jansi Natarajan Lecturer Ms. Maria Beatriz Yambao Lecturer Courses Taught and Supervised by the Department The Department of Fundamentals and Administration is responsible for the following courses: No. Course Title Course Code 1 Fundamentals of Nursing theory NURS Fundamentals of Nursing Lab NURS Health Assessment with Lab NURS Nursing Administration theory NURS Nursing Administration/Clinical NURS Introduction to Nursing Profession NURS General Chemistry for Nursing NURS Microbiology & Immunology NURS Biochemistry NURS Anatomy & Physiology I & II with Lab NURS Anatomy & Physiology I & II with Lab NURS 1010 Innovative Teaching Approaches The department incorporates innovative teaching methodologies to support and enhance student learning using e-learning and simulation techniques. Presently, simulation is used as a teaching strategy in Fundamentals of Nursing and Health Assessment, while e-learning is used in Nursing Administration. In simulation, the learning situation is made to resemble clinical practice as closely as possible and this provides students an opportunity to think and act as if they are with real patients and yet it prevents students from causing harm to patients through a trial-and-error approach. The skills learnt using simulation is safely passed onto actual patient care. The e-learning approach used in Nursing Administration has proved to be a flexible way for nursing students to learn. It enables them to interact more creatively with course facilitators and it accommodates their different learning styles. It also exposes students to additional information through attachments and links provided by course coordinators and clinical instructors. Through simulation and e-learning techniques, the department has made learning more interesting for students. 59

60 Journal Publications 1. El-Badawy, A., & El-Hefina, K., (2012). Randomized controlled trial of comprehensive nursing intervention on readmission, mortality and quality of life among Egyptian heart failure patients: A 12 month follow up study. Journal of Nursing Education and Practice, 3(5) van der Colff, J.J. & Rothman, S. (2012). Burnout of registered nurses in South Africa. Journal of Nursing Management, Weheida, S., El-Badawy A., Fareed, M., Labeeb A., Ibrahem, S. (2011). The effect of chlorhexidine versus alcohol povidone-iodine on occurrence of central venous catheter infection among critically ill patients. Nature and Science 9(9), Weheida, S. El-Badawy A,. Fareed, M., Mosaa, H., (2011). The impact of obesity on quality of life of osteoarthritic women. Egyptian Nursing Journal. 1(3), Conference Proceeding Abstract Publications 1. Matua, G.A, Muliira, J., Fronda, D., (2012). Using moodle e-learning platform to foster student selfdirected learning: experiences with utilization of the software in undergraduate nursing courses in a middle eastern university. 3 rd World Conference on Learning, Teaching and Educational Leadership, Brussels, Belgium. 2. Matua, G.A., (5115) Introducıng a new cadre into uganda s health care system: lessons learnt from the implementatıon process.3 rd World Conference on Learning, Teaching and Educational Leadership, Brussels, Belgium, October 25-28, Shreedevi, B., Radhakrishnan, J. Venkatesaperumal., R., (2012) Quality assurance in nursing education for quality patient care. Oman Medical Journal, 27(1), Suresh, A., Sharaiha, L., Muliira, J., (2012). Strategies of precepting unsafe nursing students: experiences of nursing preceptors at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital. Oman Medical Journal, 27(1), van der Colff, J.J. & Rothman, S. (2012). Occupational Stress, Sense of Coherence, Coping, Burnout and Work Engagement of Registered Nurses in South Africa. Oman Medical Journal, 27(1), Conference Presentations International 1. Gerald Matua Amandu. Introducing a New Cadre into Uganda s Health Care System: Lessons Learnt from the Implementation Process.3 rd World Conference on Learning, Teaching and Educational Leadership, Brussels, Belgium, October 25-28, Dennis C. Fronda. Using Moodle E-Learning Platform To Foster Student Self-Directed Learning: Experiences With Utilization Of The Software In Undergraduate Nursing Courses In A Middle Eastern University, 3 rd World Conference on Learning, Teaching and Educational Leadership, Brussels, Belgium, October 25-28,

61 Poster Presentations International 1. Dr. JJ van der Colff. Occupational stress, sense of coherence, coping, burnout and work engagement of registered nurses in South Africa. Third International Conference of Quality Management in Health Care, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital. February 6-8, Jayanthi Radhakrishnan. Quality Assurance in Nursing Education for Quality Patient Care, Third International Conference of Quality Management in Health Care, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital. February 6-8, Funded Research Projects 1. Perceptions and experiences of preceptors of clinically mentoring final year nursing students at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital. Principal Investigator: Gerald Matua Amandu Co-investigators: Dr. Jacoba Johanna van der Colff Mrs. Laura Lutfi Jeires Sharaiha Mr. Ramir Certeza Castro Mr. Dennis Cayaban Fronda Funding: SQU Internal Grant Amount: RO 1680 Status: On going Other Scholarly Activities 1. Using Moodle E-Learning Platform To Foster Student Self-Directed Learning: Experiences With Utilization Of The Software In Undergraduate Nursing Courses In A Middle Eastern University Principal Investigator: Gerald Matua Amandu Co-investigators: Dr. Joshua Kanaabi Muliira Dennis Cayaban Fronda 2. Jayanthi Radhakrishnan. College of Nursing, SQU Celebrates WHO day 2012 in Dakhlya Governorate. Horizon Newsletter, Sultan Qaboos University, May Extended Professional Services 1. Dr. J.J. van der Colff. Participated as facilitator and presenter in the research seminar with the theme Creating Synergy to Celebrate Research. Oman Nursing Institute, November 55, Dr. J.J. van der Colff. Participated as Moderator in symposium: Trends and Issues in Healthcare Management. Organized by MoH, Nursing Affairs Dept, Al Massarah Hospital, at Al Bustan Palace Hotel, December 22-23, Staff Development Initiatives 1. Sulayman Al-Sabei Masters in Nursing Studies, USA 2. Asma Al-Yhyaei Masters in Nursing Studies, USA 61

62 B. THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AND MENTAL HEALTH (CMH) The Department of Community and Mental Health (CMH) takes the initiative in fostering and strengthening the relationship between the College of Nursing and the Community. The Department provides quality education to the students and is committed to prepare them as efficient community and mental health nurses. The department creatively plans all its activities towards strengthening the humane and technical skills of students to enable them to provide quality service to the individual, family and community. The Department offers a wide range of Community Health Nursing and Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing courses. Departmental Faculty as of December 2012 No. Name of Faculty Position of Faculty 1. Dr. Samira Maroof Assistant Professor, Head of the Department 2. Dr. Rasha Ahmed Assistant Professor, Psychiatric Mental Health 3. Ms. Wasfieh Salloom Clinical Instructor, Community Health 4. Mr. Suresh Nair Health Lecturer, Community Health 5. Mr. Joshy Abraham Lecturer, Psychiatric Mental Health 6. Mrs. Eman Shelleh Lecturer, Community Health 7. Mr. Mohammad Abuel-Ealeh Lecturer, Community & Psychiatric Mental Health 8. Ms. Zainab Khalifa Al Kindi Demonstrator, Community Health 9. Ms. Wafa Hamood Al Jabri Demonstrator, Community Health 10. Mr. Nasir Matani Lecturer, Community Health 62

63 Highlights of the Period September st August The following Faculty joined during the period September 2011-August 2012: Ms. Zainab Khalifa Al Kindi 01 August 2012 Ms. Wafa Hamood Saleh Al Jabri 01 August The following Faculty left during the period September st August 2012: Mrs. Anoopa Suresh 30 June 2012 Courses Taught and Supervised by the Department The Department of Community and Mental Health is responsible for providing the following courses: No. Course Title Course Code 1 Community Health Nursing NURS Community Health Nursing /Clinical NURS Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing NURS Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing /Clinical NURS Health Education NURS First Aid NURS Physical and Psychological Child Development NURS Human Relations in Health and Illness NURS Sociology NURS Communications and Group Dynamics NURS 4005 & Psychology NURS 3009 & Nutrition in Wellness and Illness NURS English for Nursing LANC Health Promotion and Health Education NURS

64 Conference Presentations International 1. Maroof, S. (2011).Chaired the main plenary session of the 2 nd day of the First International Nursing Conference, Innovations in Nursing Education & Practice leading to Quality Care, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman November Ahmed, R. (2011). Developing an EBL Template for Higher Education (Oral Presentation), First International Nursing Conference, Innovations in Nursing Education & Practice leading to Quality Care, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman November Abuel-Ealeh, M. (2011). An English Perspective on Innovation with Particular Emphasis on Mental Health Nursing (Oral Presentation), First International Nursing Conference, Innovations in Nursing Education & Practice leading to Quality Care, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman November Shelleh, Eman (2012) Applying Intrapartum NICE Guidelines in Dubai Health Authority, Dubai Midwifery Conference 2-3 April 2012 Conference Posters International 1. Abraham, J (2011) Effectiveness of the Protocol for the staff nurses during the discharge program of mentally ill patient (Poster), First International Nursing Conference, Innovations in Nursing Education & Practice leading to Quality Care, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman November Suresh, A. (2011)(Co-Author) Attitude and perception of nursing students towards the Nursing Profession (Poster), First International Nursing Conference, Innovations in Nursing Education & Practice leading to Quality Care, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman November 2011 National Other Scholarly Activities 1. Maroof, S (2011) Head of Department gave a number of TV and Radio interviews on the activities of students in College of Nursing, and the College of Nursing International Nursing Conference held on November Suresh, A (5111) Feelings unnamed Times of Oman (Thursday Magazine), Sept, 2011 Research Projects Awards/Professional Recognition/Appreciation 1. Mr. Joshy Abraham (2 nd Prize for Best Poster Presentation) during First International Nursing Conference, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman Nov

65 C. DEPARTMENT OF ADULT HEALTH AND CRITICAL CARE (AHCC) The vision, mission, philosophy and objectives of the Department of Adult Health and Critical Care is to foster academic excellence, community service and clinical innovations in Adult Health and Critical Care Nursing. The departmental faculty strives to achieve the highest standards of nursing practice by educating undergraduate nursing students and providing service to the community. Departmental Faculty as of December 2012 No. Name of Faculty Position of Faculty 1 Dr. Ali Ahmad Ammouri Associate Professor and Head of Department 2 Dr. Joshua Muliira Asst. Prof, Asst. Dean, Training & Community Services 3 Dr. Melba DSouza Asst. Professor 4 Dr. Ayman K. Tailakh Asst. Professor 5 Dr. Ahmad Abu Raddaha Asst. Professor 6 Mr. Ramesh Venkatesaperumal Lecturer, Asst. Dean, Undergraduate Studies 7 Mrs. Shreedevi Balachandran Clinical Instructor 8 Mrs. Anitha Thanka Lecturer 9 Mrs. Chandrani Isac Lecturer 10 Mrs. Anandhi Amirtharaj Lecturer 65

66 11 Mr. Ephraim Mirafuentes Lecturer 12 Mr. Basel Abdulqader Lecturer 13 Mrs. Huda Al Noumani Lecturer 14 Mrs. Joy Kabasindi Kamanyire Lecturer 15 Mrs. Susan Achora Lecturer 16 Ms. Maryam Al Harrasi Lecturer 17 Mr. Omar Al Zaabi Demonstrator 18 Mr. Nasser Al Salmi Demonstrator 19 Ms. Salma Al Mukhaini Demonstrator Highlights of the Period Dr. Ali Ahmad Ammouri was appointed as the Head of department for Adult health and Critical care. 2. A proposal for MSN program for Acute Care has been approved by the University academic council. 3. Ms. Maryam Al Harrasi returned in September 2012 after obtaining Masters Adult and Acute Care Nursing Case Western Reserve university, USA. 4. Mr. Nasser Majid Dhawi Al Salmi (Adult and Acute Care Nursing) left for post graduate studies 5. Mrs. Shreedevi Balachandran received Best teacher award in 2012 Faculty who joined during 2012 Dr. Ahmad Abu Raddaha (Oct 2012) Ms. Devakirubai Jacob (Oct 2012) Ms. Salma Juma Fadhil Al Mukhaini (April 2012) Faculty who left during 2012 Packiajothi, Deborah ( 2012) 66

67 Courses Taught and Supervised by the Department September September 2012 The Department of Adult Health and Critical Care is responsible for providing the following courses: No. Course Title Course Code 1 Pharmacology for Nurses NURS 3002 & Adult Health Nursing I NURS 3003 & Adult Health Nursing I Clinical NURS 3004 & Adult Health Nursing II NURS 3005& Adult Health Nursing II Clinical NURS 3006 & Health /Nursing Informatics NURS 3013 & Critical Care Nursing NURS 4014 & Critical Care Nursing Clinical NURS 4015 & Advanced Clinical Nursing NURS 5010 & Critical Thinking NURS 4012 & Pharmacology NURS 3000/ Pathophysiology NURS 2019 & Gerontological Nursing NURS Graduation project NUR 4024 Research publications 1. Muliira, J.K. & Muliira, R. S. (2012). Teaching culturally appropriate therapeutic touch to nursing students in the Sultanate of Oman: Reflections on observations and experiences with Muslim patients. Holistic Nursing Practice; DOI: /HNP.0b013e318276fcc. 2. Seshan, V., Muliira, J. K., Krishnamurthy, R. & Sivaram, V. (2012). Reducing urinary incontinent symptom severity in women using a video assisted teaching program. International Journal of Urological Nursing, DOI: /j x Nankumbi, J, Muliira, J. K., & Kabahenda, M. K. (2012). Feeding practices and nutrition outcomes in Children: Examining the practices of Caregivers living in a rural setting. Infant, Child & Adolescent Nutrition; DOI: / Kisenyi, R. N., Muliira, J. K. & Ayebare, E. (2011). Religiosity and Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy among patients attending a Public Hospital Based HIV/AIDS clinic in Uganda. Journal of Religion and Health; DOI: 10:1007/s Nankinga, Z., Muliira, J. K., Kalyango, J., Nankabirwa, J., Kiwuwa, S., Njama-Meya, D., & Karamagi, C. (2012). Factors associated with utilization of insecticide-treated nets in children seeking health care at a Ugandan Hospital: Perspective of Child Caregivers. Journal of Community Health, 37(5),

68 6. Abu Raddaha, A. H., Alasad, J., Albikawi, Z. F., Batarseh, K. S., Realat, E. A., Saleh, A. A., & Froelicher, E. S. (2012). Jordanian nurses' job satisfaction and intention to quit. Leadership in Health Services, 25(3), doi: / Gilbertson-White, S., Aouizerat, B. E., Jahan, T., Paul, S. M., West, C., Schumacher, K., Dodd, MJ, Rabow,M, Abu Raddaha, A.,H & Miaskowski, C. (2012). Determination of cutpoints for low and high number of symptoms in patients with advanced cancer. Journal of Palliative Medicine, 15(9), doi: /jpm Jacob, P., Abu Raddaha, A. H., Dempsey, D., Havel, C., Peng, M., Yu, L., & Benowitz, N. L. (2011). Nicotine, carbon monoxide, and carcinogen exposure after a single use of a water pipe. Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention, 20(11), doi: / EPI Isac, C.,Amirtharaj, A., Thanka, A., & D'Souza. M. S. (2012). Application of Cognitive Critical Thinking Skills in Nursing Process by Nursing Students. SQU Medical Journal. Vol 12. Issue (2), Isac, C., Chacko, R. T., & Ezhilarasu, P. Information: A priceless Gift in the Chronic Care Management of Cancer Patients. Submitted for publication to GSTF Journal of BioSciences (JBio) - Print ISSN: , E-periodical: D Souza, M. S, Isac, C.,Balachandran, S, Amirtharaj, A, Venkatesaperumal, R., Thanka, A., Al Noumani, H., &Muliira. J. (2012). Risk Assessment Prompt on Early Osteoporotic Screening. Oman Medical Journal. Volume 27. Issue (1). Pg Amirtharaj, A., D Souza, M. S., Thanka, A., Venkatesaperumal, R., Isac, C., & Balachandran, S.(2012). Improving Diabetes Mellitus screening and risk Assessment: Role of Nurses in closing the gap. Oman Medical Journal. Volume 27. Issue(1). Pg 97. Conference Presentations International Shreedevi B, Radhakrishnan J, Venkatesaperumal R Quality Assurance in Nursing education for Quality Patient care.third International Conference of Quality Management in Healthcare, February , conducted by Sultan Qaboos University. Abstract published in Oman Medical Journal, Vol 27, Issue 1, January 2012, Page 100. Achora, S. (2012). From evidence to practice Barriers and Facilitators of Implementation of EBP in Nursing Practice. 4 TH International MSD Nursing conference, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia September Anandhi Amirtharaj, Melba Sheila D souza, Anitha Thanka,Venkatesaperumal. R, Chandrani Isac, Shreedevi Balachandran. Improving Diabetes Mellitus Screening and Risk Assessment: Role of Nurses in Closing the Gap- Third International Conference of Quality Management in Healthcare, February , conducted by Sultan Qaboos University. Abstract published in Oman Medical Journal, Vol 27, Issue 1,January 2012, Page

69 Kamanyire, J.K. (2012) Family Verses Safety: The Dilemma of Negative Partners in HIV/AIDS Discordant Relationship. 2 nd International Conference on Qualitative Research in Nursing and Health, Manila, Philippines November Clara JJ, Shreedevi B, Venkatesaperumal. R, Shukri,R. Writing - to - Learn (WTL) as a learning strategy:attitudes of omani nursing students, First International Nursing Conference :Innovations in Nursing Education & Practice leading to Quality Care, Muscat, November 2011, Page 109. Girija K.M, Raghda Shukri, Shreedevi B & Sumaiya Al Kindi. Perception of Preceptors on Clinical Learning of Nursing Students.Abstract book of the First International Nursing Conference: Innovations in Nursing Education & Practice leading to Quality Care, Muscat, November 2011, Page 100. National Chandrani Isac, Melba Sheila D Souza, Ramesh Venkatesaperumal, Shreedevi Balachandran, Anandhi Amirtharaj, Anitha Thanka. Innovative teaching-learning strategies in clinical courses. University Day, 2012 Media Releases Dr. Ayman (2012). Risk factors for Cardiovascular diseases in Oman. The Week newspaper October Research Projects and Scholarly Activities in Progress Topic:Exploring Fracture Risk Factors among Omani Women: Implications for Risk Assessment Investigators: D Souza, M. S., Isac,C., Venkatesaperumal, R., Amirtharaj, A., Balachandran, S., & Thanka, A Status: Accepted for publication in the Open Journal of Nursing (OJN) Topic:Nurse-led Clinic to improve the Quality of Life among Clients with Sickle Cell Disease Investigators: Isac, C.,Venkatesaperumal, R., & D Souza, M. S. Status: Accepted for publication in International Journal of Nursing Education (IJONE) Departmental Training and Continuing Nursing Education Sessions 1. Preceptor training workshops for nursing staff from SQUH. The Department ran a preceptor training workshop in the fall semester of 2012 for the nursing staff of SQUH. The main theme of the workshops was Empowering preceptors for safety education subthemes for discussion were: common problems when precepting final year nursing students, effectively precepting difficult final year nursing students, providing effective feedback building effective preceptor preceptee relationships and precepting unsafe students. 2. Quality Circle An in-house writing groups under different themes were formed in the department to enhance the scientific writing skills for publication of the faculty. 69

70 D. DEPARTMENT OF MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH (MCH) The Department of Maternal and Child Health (MCH) aims to maintain excellence in the fields of nursing education and research contributing to comprehensive care of women and children. The department provides courses related to Maternal and Child Health nursing within the framework of the curriculum plan of the College. Further it aims to expand academic excellence through collaborative research and establishment of transdisciplinary networks with local, national and international agencies. Departmental Faculty as of December 2012 No Name of Faculty Position of Faculty 1 Dr. Judith Noronha Head of Department, Assistant Professor 2 Dr. Esra Al Khasawneh Associate Professor 3 Dr. Mamatha Pai Assistant Professor 4 Ms. Lina Mohd Wali Shakman Clinical Instructor 5 Dr. Girija Madhavanprabhakaran Lecturer 6 Mrs. Renu Geethakrishnan Lecturer 7 Mrs. Savithri Raman Lecturer 8 Mrs. Preethy DSouza Lecturer 70

71 9 Ms. Adenike Adepero Akintola Lecturer 10 Mrs. Shanthi Ramasubramaniam Lecturer 11 Mrs. Deepa Shaji Thomas Lecturer 12 Mrs. Rhoda Muliira Lecturer 13 Dr. Vidya Seshan Lecturer 14 Mrs. Bernardita McGregor Lecturer 15 Ms. Basma Al Yazidi Demonstrator 16 Ms. Iman Al Hashmi Demonstrator Highlights of the Period Dr. Esra Al Khasawneh was appointed as Asst. Dean for Postgraduate Studies & Research from September Dr. Girija K. M was appointed as Head of Maternal And Child Health Deapartment. Ms. Basma Al Yazidi and Ms. Iman Al Hashmi completed their postgraduation studies from Case Western Reserve University, Ohio, Cleveland, USA and re joined to the Department. Courses Taught and Supervised by the Department The Department of Maternal and Child Health is responsible for providing the following courses: No. Course Title Course Code 1 Maternal Health Nursing (NURS 4002) 2 Maternal Health Nursing Clinical (NURS 4003) 3 Psychosocial Aspects of Care (NURS 4006 & NURS 3025) 4 Health Promotion: Community Health Concepts (NURS 4009) 5 Nursing Research (NURS 3024 & NURS 4013) 6 History, Trends, Issues and Ethics (NURS 5006) 7 Child Health Nursing (NURS 4000) 8 Child Health Nursing Clinical (NURS 4001) 9 Biostatistics (NURS 3026 & 4007) 71

72 Innovative teaching and learning methodology used 1. E-learning used for the course on History, Trends, Issues and Ethics, Maternity and Child Health during the period Simulation lab training and Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) method of evaluation is used in Maternal Health Nursing and Child Health NursingCourse since The Simulation method of teaching and learning using moderate fidelity simulator has improved the manual dexterity of students and hence the students clinical skills. It has been particularly useful in teaching male students maternity skills. A high fidelity simulator is planned to enrich student competency and skills in future. Research Publications 1. AkhuZaheya, L & Alkhasawneh, E. (2012). Complementary Alternative Medicine use Among a sample of Muslim Jordanian Oncology Patients. Journal of Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 18(2): Alkhasawneh E, Ismailova,L, Olimat,H& Elbassil, N: Social and behavioural HIV/AIDS research in Jordan: A Systematic Review East Mediterr Health J May;18(5): Seshan,V., Muliira,J.K., Krishnamoorthy,R., & Sivaram,V.(2012).Reducing Urinary incontinence Symptoms Severity in Women using a Video Assisted Teaching Program. International Journal of Urological Nursing. Article first published online: 13 SEP 2012 DOI: /j X Seshan, V., & Sivaram, V. (5115).Urinary incontinence & Kegel s Exercise. International Journal of Nursing Education, 4(2), ISSN Siva ram, V., Seshan, V., & Ramasubramaniam, S. (2012). Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude And Practice of Prenatal Diagnostic Techniques Act Among Antenatal Mothers At Maternity Centre, Coimbatore. International Journal of Nursing Education, 4 (1), ISSN (Electronic). 6. Noronha, J.A., Al Khasawneh, E., Seshan, V., Ramasubramaniam, S., & Raman, S. (2012). Anemia in Pregnancy-Consequences and Challenges: A Review of Literature. Journal of South Asian Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 4(1), Ramasubramaniam, S., Muliira, R., Seshan, V., Noronha, J.A., & Raman, S. (2012).Chiropractic care in women s health: A midwifery perspective. African Journal of Midwifery and women s health, 6(2), Muliira, J. K., Nalwanga Bosa, P., Muliira, R. S., & Nakinga, Z (2012) Knowledge, Perceived risk and Barriers to Testicular Self-examination among Male University Students in Uganda. Journal of Men s Health, 9(1), /j.jomh

73 9. Muliira, J. K. & Muliira, R. S.(2012). Using therapeutic touch during nursing care: Reflection on observations and experiences with Muslim patients. Holistic Nursing Practice (acceptedawaiting publication). 8. Thomas, D. S. (2012). Problems Faced by Children of Alcoholics Admitted in Selected De- Addiction Centers in Mangalore. International Journal of Nursing Education, 4(2), 4-8. Conference Proceeding Publication 1. Seshan, V. (2012). Assessment of Knowledge, attitude and practice of prenatal diagnostic techniques act among antenatal mothers. International Nursing Research Conference. Royal College of Nursing of United Kingdom Book of Abstract Monday 23 rd to Wednesday 25 th April Seshan, V.(2012). Effectiveness of Video Assisted Teaching Programme in Prevention and Management of Urinary incontinence, 31 st Annual International Nursing & Midwifery Research and Education Conference. Royal college of surgeons in Ireland Book of Abstract Wednesday 22 nd and 23 rd February. 3. Noronha, J.A., Seshan, V., Ramasubramaniam, S., Raman S., Madhavn, G., Muliira, R., and Akintola, A. (2012). Role of Clinical Pathway -Impact on Quality Care. Oman Medical Journal. 27(1), 97. ISSN: X (print), ISSN: (Abstracts). Muscat 4. Raman, S., Noronha, J.A., Ramasubramaniam, S., Seshan, V. (2011). Breast Screening Awareness: How much do women know? First International Nursing Conference Innovation in Nursing Education and Practice Leading to Quality Care Sultan Qaboos University, College of Nursing, November Shanthi.R, Seethalakshmi.S, Emmanuel., Subhadra., (2012). Promotion of exercises to postnatal mothers and benefits achieved. International Nursing Research conference, Royal College of Nursing of United Kingdom Book of Abstract Monday 23 rd to Wednesday 25 th April Muliira,J.K., Etyang, C., Kizza,I.B., &Muliira,R.S.(2011). Nurses s orientation towards Lifelong Learning: A case study of Uganda s National Hospital. First international nursing conference Innovations In Nursing Education &Practice Leading To Quality Care - November 2011 at College of nursing, Sultan Qaboos University. 7. Renu, G. (2012). Paediatric nurses perceptions of End of life care and helpful behaviors in providing end of life care. 31 st Annual International Nursing & Midwifery Research & Education conference on Nursing and Midwifery Practice in a Global Community Collaborating and Networking for the Future, 2012/02/22-23 rd The book of Abstract,Dublin, Ireland. 8. Thomas, D.S. (2012). Children of alcoholics: An Explorative Survey. Annual Global health care conference. 2012/08/27-28 th. Singapore 9. Raman, S. (2012). Breast Screening Awareness among Omani Women.International Nursing Research Conference Royal College of Nursing of United Kingdom Book of Abstract Monday 23 rd to Wednesday 25 th April

74 10. Renu G, Ramir.C &Deepa Shaji Thomas (2012).Quality Improvement through Family Centered Approach in Child Care. Third International Conference of Quality Management in Health Care, 6-8 February Sultan Qaboos University. Oman Medical Journal.(2012) 27(1). ISSN X PP : 97 (Abstract) 11. Renu G & Deepa Shaji Thomas (2012). Patient Safety Culture Improves The Quality Of Care. Third International Conference of Quality Management in Health Care, 6-8 February Sultan Qaboos University. Oman Medical Journal. (2012) 27(1). ISSN X PP : 96 (Abstract) 12. Renu G, Deepa Thomas, Lina Shakman (2011). Stressors of baccalaureate nursing students in dealing with hospitalized children. First international nursing conference Innovations In Nursing Education &Practice Leading To Quality Care - November 2011 at College of nursing, Sultan Qaboos University. 13. Deepa Thomas, Renu G, Lina Shakman (2011). Problems faced by children of alcoholic fathers. First international nursing conference Innovations In Nursing Education &Practice Leading To Quality Care - November 2011 at College of nursing, Sultan Qaboos University. 14. Renu G, Lina Shakman, Deepa Thomas (2011). Parental knowledge on neutropenia and reported practice on infection control measures in neutropenia for children admitted with leukemia at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Oman. First international nursing conference Innovations In Nursing Education &Practice Leading To Quality Care - November 2011 at College of nursing, Sultan Qaboos University. Conference Presentations International 1. Raman, S (2012). Breast Screening Awareness among Omani Women, International Nursing Research Conference, United Kingdom, April Girija, K. M (2012). Undergraduate students perception of effective clinical instructor characteristics International Nursing Research Conference, United Kingdom, April Seshan, V (2012). Assessment of Knowledge, attitude and practice of prenatal diagnostic techniques act among antenatal mothers, International Nursing Research Conference, United Kingdom, April Ramasubramaniam, S (2012). Promotion of postnatal exercises and benefits achieved, International Nursing Research Conference, United Kingdom, April Renu, G (2012). Pediatric nurses perceptions of End of life care and helpful behaviors in providing end of life care. 31 st Annual International Nursing & Midwifery Research & Education conference on. Ireland, February Thomas, D.S. (2012). Children of alcoholics: An Explorative Survey, Annual Global health care conference, Singapore, September

75 National 1. Girija, M (2011), Perception of preceptors on clinical learning of nursing students, First International Nursing Conference Innovation in Nursing Education and Practice Leading to Quality Care. Sultan Qaboos University, College of Nursing, November Raman, S (2500), Excessive use of Technology in Nursing is Effective - Against (Won the debate), Nursing Debate, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, December Seshan,V., Ramasubramaniam, S., Raman, S., Girija, M., Muliira, R., Akintola, A, (2012). Role of Clinical Pathway -Impact on Quality Care.Third International Conference of Quality Management in Healthcare Sultan Qaboos University Hospital.February Raman, S.,., Ramasubramaniam, S., Seshan,V., Girija, M., Muliira, R., Akintola, A,(2011). Prevention of Osteoporosis, Omani Women s Day, Sultan Qaboos University, College of Nursing, October Ramasubramaniam, S., Raman, S., Seshan,V., Girija, M., Muliira, R., Akintola, A,(2011).Screening of Osteoporosis, Omani Women s Day, Sultan Qaboos University, College of Nursing, October Renu, G., Shakman, L., Thomas, D.,(2011). Treatment of Osteoporosis, Omani Women s Day, Sultan Qaboos University, College of Nursing, October Thomas, D., Renu, G., Shakman, L., (2011). Problems faced by the Children of Alcoholic Fathers. First International Nursing Conference on Innovations in Nursing Education and Practice Leading to Quality of Care, Sultan Qaboos University, College of Nursing, November Raman, S., Ramasubramaniam, S., Seshan,V.,(2011). Breast Screening Awareness: How much do women know? First International Nursing Conference on Innovations in Nursing Education and Practice Leading to Quality of Care, Sultan Qaboos University, College of Nursing, November Renu, G., Thomas, D., McGregor, B.,(2011). Quality Improvement through Family Centered Approach in Child Care, Role of Clinical Pathway -Impact on Quality Care.Third International Conference of Quality Management in Healthcare Sultan Qaboos University Hospital. February Renu, G., Thomas, D., Shakman, L.,(2011). Stressors of Baccalaurate Nursing Students in Dealing with Hospitalized Children. First International Nursing Conference Innovation in Nursing Education and Practice Leading to Quality Care. Sultan Qaboos University, College of Nursing, November Renu, G., Shakman, L.,Thomas, D., (2011). Parental Knowledge on Neutropenia and Reported Practice on Infection Control Measures in Neutropenia for Children Admitted with Leukemia at Sultan Qaboos Univesity Hospital, Oman. First International Nursing Conference Innovation in Nursing Education and Practice Leading to Quality Care. Sultan Qaboos University, College of Nursing, November

76 Research Projects and Scholarly Activities 1 Title: Effect of an educational Intervention on Anaemia in pregnancy (Oman). Investigators: Dr. Esra Al Khasawneh, Dr. Vidya Seshan, Mrs.Savithri Raman ( Internal Grant, Sultan Qaboos University) 2 Title: Titled:Effectiveness of Kegel s exercise in reduction of symptom severity of Urinary incontinence among Omani women. Investigators: Dr.Vidya Seshan, Dr. Esra Al Khasawneh, Mrs.Savithri Raman, Mrs. Iman Al Hashmi, Dr. Girija K.M. (Dean s fund, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University) 3 Title: Student s perception of pre-clinical Skill Lab Based Training/ Simulation Based Training (SBT) and Objective Structured Clinical \examinations (OSCE) on Clinical Learning Outcomes. Investigators: Dr. Girija K.M., Dr. Esra Al Khasawneh, Mrs. Shanthi Ramasubramaniam, Dr.Vidya Seshan, (Dean s fund, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University) 4 Title: Awareness of Breast Cancer Among Omani Women: in collaboration with faculty from Oman Nursing Institute. Investigators:, Mrs. Shanthi Ramasubramaniam, Dr.Vidya Seshan, Mrs. Rhoda Muliira, (Research And Ethical Review committee, MOH) 5 Title: Parenting a child with metabolic disease: Impact on health related quality of life of parents Investigators:Mrs. Deepa Thomas, Dr. Esra Al Khasawneh, Mrs.Renu Geetha Krishnan, Mrs.Lina Shakman, Mrs. Bernaditta. (Dean s fund, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University) 6 Title: Stress among student nurses in caring children (proposal accepted by the college research committee) Investigators: Mrs.Renu Geetha Krishnan, Mrs. Deepa Thomas, Mrs.Lina Shakman 7 Title: Experience of cultural diversity among nursing students in Oman Investigators: Mrs.Renu Geetha Krishnan, Mrs. Deepa Thomas, Mrs.Lina Shakman 76

77 Training courses and CNE activities 1. Breast Screening Approaches: A systematic review for evidence based practice by Mrs. Savithri Raman held as Journal Club Presentation on February Effectiveness of Kegel s exercise in reduction of symptom severity of Urinary incontinence among Omani women. Brown Bag Activity, October Awards and Professional Recognition Dr. Vidya Seshan was awarded PhD Dr. Girija K. M was awarded PhD Dr. Vidya Seshan nominated to the Midwifery Standing committee Of Oman Nursing and Midwifery Council in May

78 SUMMARY OF COLLEGE COMMITTE ACTIVITIES In the Academic year 2011 and 2012, the memsership of various college committes changed, however they continued to perfom various tasks for which they were formed which include the following: THE COLLEGE RESEARCH COMMITTEE (CRC) The College Research Committee conducted several reviews which resulted in the continuation and commencement of several research projects. The CRC continued to guide and support the project team in order to ensure the sucess of the approved projects. The overall aim of this is to ensure faculty and staff at the College are involved in undertakng research that will increase the university s visibility. The following are the projects that were reviewed and are being monitored by the CRC: A. Deans Fund Primary Investigator Mrs. Girija Madhavanprabhakaran Mrs. Deepa Shaji Thomas Dr. Vidya Seshan Mrs. Girija Madhavanprabhakaran Dr. Ali Ammouri Dr. Ahmad Abu Raddaha Title Year Amount Students Perceived Benefits of Pre-clinical Simulation Based Training (SBT) on Enhancing Patient Safety and Clinical Learning Outcome Parenting a Child with Metabolic Disease: Impact on Health Related Quality of Life of Parentsl Effectiveness of Kegels Exercise in Reduction of Symptoms Severity of Urinary Tract Infection Among Omani Women Students Perceived Benefits of Pre-clinical Simulation Based Training (SBT) on Enhancing Patient Safety and Clinical Learning Outcome Effects of Discharge Training and Counseling on Self-Care Ability, Self-Care Behavior, and Symptoms Experience after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery: RCT The Impact of Electric Medical Record System s Usability on Practicing Nurses OR OR OR OR ,000 OR ,002 OR Internal Grant Primary Investigator Title Code# Year Amount Dr. Raghda Shukri Dr. Samira Maroof Dr. Esra Al Khasawneh Effect of Postnatal Exercise Program on the Health Related Fitness Status of Omani Women Psychological Experience and Quality of Life of Patients Awaiting Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery Applied Nursing Capacity Building Through Twinning, Training and Mentoring of Faculty and Clinical Practice Omani Nurses in the Sultanate of Oman IG-CN ,500 OMR IG/CN/ACCN/11/ ,600 OMR IG/CN/MCHH/12/ ,000 OMR 78

79 Dr. Joshua Kanaabi Muliira Dr. Ayman K. Tailakh Mr. Gerald Amandu Matua Mrs. Girija Madhavanprabhakaran Dr. Esra Al Khasawneh Knowledge, Experience and Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening: A Survey of Health Care Providers Working in Primary Care Settings in Oman Hypertension Knowledge, Awareness, Medication Adherence And Lifestyle Behaviors Among Hypertensive Patients in Oman The Study: Preceptions and Experiences of Preceptors of Clinically Mentoring Final Year Nursing Students at Sultan Qaboos University Effectiveness of Childbirth Education Intervention on Anxiety and Pregnancy Outcomes among Omani Women Effect of an Educational Intervention on Anemia in Pregnancy IG/CN/AHCC/13/ ,205 OMR IG/CN/AHHH/13/ ,900 OMR IG/CN//FACN/13/ ,680 OMR IG/CN/13/MCHH/ ,800 OMR IG/CN/MCHH/13/ ,768 OMR Strategic Grant Primary Investigator Title Code# Year Amount Dr. Esra Al Khasawneh Breast Cancer in Oman: A Multiphase Study to Examine Breast Cancer Awareness among Omani Women SR/CON/MCHH/13/ ,400 OMR THE STAFF DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE (SDC) The SDC continues to provide opportunities for continuing professional growth and development of the new and current faculty while stabilizing the nursing educational program. Continuing Nursing Education for excellence is mandatory for maintaining the quality of the nursing program and for longterm sustainability of the faculty from international communities. In 2012, the Staff development 15 workshops were organized, facilitated by international and national resource speakers on various topics related to Teaching and learning, Research and Development, and these included: Clinical evaluation tools, Writing Quality question papers Clinical teaching and assessment strategies, Curriculum development and revision, Evidence based teaching learning, E-learning using Moodle management system Sim mom birthing drill, Systematic review of literature, Writing research grants and publications, Writing research papers and reviews, Selection and use of nursing research designs, Nursing Reference Centre: CINAHL Plus database, Academic Advising, End Note, Advance search on Evidence based resources, Program and Student Learning Outcomes Maintaining a Successful Research Trajectory 79

80 Prof. Erika Froelicher, a Visiting Professor during a research training workshop at the College of Nursing in 2012 The key resource speakers included experts from within and outside Oman, including: Prof Loucine Huckabay, Long Beach California, USA, Prof Marianne Hattar Pollara, USA, Prof Sandra Engberg, University of Pittsburg, USA, Prof. Erika Froelicher, a Visiting Professor, USA Dr Susan Rupperts, Texas University of Health Sciences, USA, Prof Adey Nyamathi, UCLA School of Nursing, USA, Dr Ann Mitchell, University of Pittsburg, USA, Dr Jeremy Jolley, Hull University, UK, Ms. Judith Imets, Abu Dhabi, Dr Laila Akhu-Zaheya, JUST, Jordan, Dr Kamlesh Bhargava, FAMCO, SQU, Dr Deepa Bhargava, SQUH, SQU, Salim Al Waaili, Center for Educational Technology, Sultan Qaboos University, Dr Josef Yak Jervase, College of Engineering, SQU These workshops enable faculty to use evidence based teaching learning methodologies in the teaching-learning system to bridge the gap between theory and clinical nursing practice. These trainings enhance nursing education, practice, and faculty research competences. 80

81 THE COLLEGE QUALITY ASSURANCE COMMITTEE The College Quality Assurance Committee (CQAC) chaired by Dr. Raghda Shukri has been very active during the last year. The committee has had 10 meetings during the above period. The committee members spent a lot of time in revising the self-study report that was prepared for Accreditation during the last academic year. Prof. Marianne Hattar, the consultant visited the college three times during 2012 to facilitate the preparations for international Accreditation. The accreditation committee has undertaken several efforts to get the entire university involved including making presentations to the College Board in January 2012 regarding the status of accreditation in order to involve all the members in the process. Dr. Said Al Yahyaei, DVC-AACS attended this meeting, and gave words of encouragement. Later, the College Advisory Board and the College Board approved the candidacy application. Candidacy application was completed and sent in July Prof. Marianne Hattar Pollara, USA facilitating a accreditation related workshop for Administrators, staff and faculty, City Seasons Hotel, Muscat, 2012 Another major event of the committee has been the College Retreat, for the faculty members in the month of March This was an opportunity to ensure that all faculty members were oriented and involved in the process of self-study. Prof. Marianne Hattar, The college international consultant was invited for the retreat. During this meeting, presentations on various standards were made by the CQAC members. This was to bring all the faculty members on board with CQAC towards accreditation. The clarifications raised by various faculty members were answered. 81

82 Dr. Raghda, Dr. Tanner, President of NLNAC and Mr. Ramesh during a self-study forum conducted by NLNAC in October 2012 at Orlando, Florida, USA Other projects the community is working on include conducting graduate satisfaction survey, Employer satisfaction survey and student satisfaction surveys; encouraging publicity of the College Vision/Mission by encouraging staff to include them as their signature; Revision of the College Self Study Report. In order to ensure they are ready for the accreditation, the university administration approved for Dr Raghda and Mr Ramesh to attend the self-study forum conducted by NLNAC in October 2012 in USA. 82

83 THE EXAMINATION GRADE VERIFICATION COMMITTEE The Grades Verification Committee was formed in 2007 under the leadership of Dr. Raghda Shukri. The main objectives of the committee are to standardize the grade submission process of college of Nursing and to ensure an error free submission of grades to Deanship of Admission and Registration. In 2011, committee renamed as Examination Grades Verification Committee (EGVC). The committee directly reports to Dean - College of Nursing, Asst. Dean undergraduate affairs and to the chair of Examination Evaluation committee. The committee consists of six members. The committee meets six times a year, before and after the examinations. Committee reviews all the course grades submitted by the college of Nursing. This committee ensures an error free grade submission from College of Nursing. THE EXAMINATION AND EVALUATION COMMITTEE The Examination and Evaluation Committee is chaired by Dr. Ali Ahmad Ammouri. It conducted 4 meetings during spring 2012 and 3 meeting during summer 2012 to review and approve the examination grades. There is a reorganization of the new committee members. The Committee has reviewed and maintained the quality of examination and the quality of the results in accordance with the regulations and policies of the university. The EEC chairperson and members discussed the grade results presented by invited course coordinators and in the presence of Grades Verification Committee representative. The major achievements of the committee during this period were as follows: The committee is in the process of reviewing documents to standardize clinical evaluation. 36 courses in fall 2011, 47 courses in spring 2012 and 21 courses in summer 2012 were reviewed and approved. Failure with supplemental privilege grade was granted by the committee to deserving students. Update about the revision of grade summary template was discussed. Analyze examination questions in all courses especially if there are two different course coordinators. The EEC reviewed, in Advance, Clinical Course and other courses as the major agenda focusing more on the unsafe practice particularly during the procedure. THE EVENTS, SOCIAL AND PUBLIC RELATIONS COMMITTEE The year 2011 started with the old Public Relations and Social Committee chaired by Ms. Wasfieh and in May 2012, a new committee was developed Events, Public Relations, and Social Committee with a new chairperson Ms. Rhoda and has six members. The following are the highlights of the activities: 21 st September 2011: Some changes were made with the PR & Sc Committee policy about events of bidding farewell to faculty. 5 th October 2011: Had luncheon at CON to welcome new staff namely Dr. Ayman, Dr. Ali, Mr. Gerald and Ms. Bernardita. Congratulated staff who had been promoted, congratulated those with newborn babies and bid farewell to Christina who was leaving the college. All male faculty welcomed or congratulated received a card and the female faculty received a flower. 83

84 28 th December 2011: Bid farewell to one of our own Ms. Preethy and Dr. Rekha. Had nice lunch at the staff club. Also welcomed new faculty who had joined the CON namely Ms. Joy, Ms. Susan, Ms. Ghada, Ms. Kaukab and Ms. Samia. 15 th May 2012: New Committee, Events, Public Relations and Social was created and new chair person was elected Ms. Rhoda with five members. An additional role of events was added as one of the responsibilities for this committee. 9 th May 2012: Bid farewell to faculty Dr. Judith, Dr. Mamatha, Ms. Anoopa and Ms. Ghada. Had nice lunch at the CON. 2 nd June 2012: Conducted first meeting with the new elected Events, Public and Social committee chaired by Ms. Rhoda. During that meeting, Ms. Sumaiya was elected as the secretary to the committee and Ms. Bernie as financial manager. Mr. Khalid and Ms. Rahma volunteered to take charge of the events at the college. All members were happy about their roles. 19 th September 2012: Welcomed the new College Administrator, Ms Badriya Al Hashar and new faculty, Prof. Ericka, Dr. Suhaila, Dr. Santy Sajan, Ms. Jansi Natarajan, Ms. Ibtisam, Ms. Maryam Al Harrasi, Ms. Iman Al Hashmi, Ms. Basma Al-Yazidi, Ms. Salma Al Mukhaini. THE HEALTH AND SAFETY COMMITTEE The committee was active in for the various activities that were planned, which was executed successfully, achieving the very purpose of the committee. Ms. Shreedevi Balachandran- Head Ms. Jayanthi Radhakrishnan Ms. Lina Shakmann Ms. Anitha Nesa Thanka Mr.Basel AbdulQader Mr. Ephraim Catoto Mirafuentes The committee members carried out the following activities: Immunization: The students of Fall and Spring semester who came in to nursing courses were screened for their Hep B vaccine titre levels. Students requiring further vaccinations were intimated of their appointments for the same. This was coordinated with the student clinic and FAMCO. 84

85 Fire Awareness Classes/Fire Drill: Fire awareness classes for all the students were organized on 19 th and 24 th September, 2-4 pm in the college premises. The University technical affairs department staff delivered lectures and demonstration on fire safety. Due to expansion and construction activities at the college, the fire drill was not conducted as planned. The emergency booklet and the telephone tree was kept updated. Basic Safety Training Workshop: The basic safety training workshop was conducted for the Post graduate studies participants on 20/11/2011.The participants feedback for the above workshop for the first aid component was highly rewarding, which has been reported in writing by the PGSR to the College Administration. AED Training: The members of the Health and Safety committee took responsibility to train the all the staff and faculty of the college to use the AED machine. A large number of faculty were trained and documented on a checklist. Other significant activities: A proposal was completed on the Health Screening for Nursing students at CON at the entry level to the college board on 13 th November 2012 and was subsequently revised on 5 th December A proposal was also made on First Aid courses to be offered by the college /Health and Safety committee on weekends to ease the academic workload of the faculty and also meet the requests for such courses from within and outside the university. This was also presented at the College Board. 85

86 THE CURRICULUM COMMITTEE (CC) The Curriculum Committee at the College of Nursing takes on major responsibility in planning, reviewing, revising and evaluating the curriculum at the undergraduate level at College of Nursing. The Curriculum Committee membership ensures departmental representation and includes the Asst. Dean for Undergraduate affairs and two student representatives. The curriculum committee was chaired by Dr. Ragdha Shukri until March In April 2012, as a part of biennial change in committee structure, Dr. Ali Ammouri was appointed Chair- curriculum committee and there was a change in the membership too. The committee met 12 times in the year. The key achievements of the committee during the period of this report were the following: Ensuring that clarity was provided to the existing unsafe practice guidelines to indicate details of failure in course/clinical exam. This discussion also led to placing a clear guideline on handling a student who is unsafe within any clinical course and includes a plan for remediation. As per the Ministry of Health requirements, Adolescent Care has been confirmed to be included in our curriculum The degree plan incorporating the transfer credits of the nursing Diploma Graduate program was approved by the Curriculum Committee. This was required by the Deanship of Admission & Registration. Calculation of course contact hours was finalized. Terms of reference of the curriculum committee was approved A Workshop on Learning Objectives and Learning outcomes was facilitated Student learning outcomes have been identified is in the process of final approval The committee is in the process of reviewing documents to standardize clinical evaluation THE CLINICAL TRAINING COMMITTEE (CCTC) To ensure that the graduates from the college of nursing have the relevant professional competencies and technical skills, they undertake 11 clinical courses in different semester. The clinical courses involve training in professional knowledge and technical skill in the nursing skills and simulation laboratory, hospitals, health canters and in the community. Clinical training for nursing students in the various settings is rendered according to the different specialities in the following courses: Fundamentals of Nursing Health Assessment Adult Health Nursing I Adult Health Nursing II Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Child Health Nursing Maternal Health Nursing Critical Care Nursing Community Health Nursing Nursing Administration Advanced Clinical Nursing 86

87 Number of Studnets in Clinical Courses Per Semester and Mean Grade The results below summarise the student s performance in the clinical courses offered by the College of Nursing in the period ranging from Fall 2011 to Fall Student Performance in Clinical Courses in the Period Fall 2011-Fall Number of Students Taking Clinical Courses Mean Grade in All Clinical Courses 0 Fall 2011 Spring 2012 Summer 2012 Fall Student Performance in Clinical Courses in the Period Fall 2011 to Fall 2012 THE COLLEGE REPORTS AND DOCUMENTATION COMMITTEE (CDRC) The College Reports and Documentation committee started it s work in April 2012 following the approval of the membership by the College Board. The membership of the committee, include: Mr. Gerald Amandu Matua (C) Mr. Mohammad Abuel - Ealeh Mr. Dennis Cayaban Fronda Mrs. Savithri Raman Mrs. Susan Achora (R) Mrs. Kawkab Al Gharabi Since its constitution, the CRDC has embarked on the following activities: a. Gathering data and drafting Annual report b. Drafting the Annual performance report 2012 The CRDC thanks all administrators and faculty of the College for sharing information with them which enabled them to summarize and document effectively major events and developments at the College. 87

88 THE STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE The College of Nursing began a complementary strategic planning process to plan for the College s future for the coming fifteen years The strategic planning committee chaired by Dr. Ayman Tailakh was established on March 2012 to direct the effort based on the framework of a SWOT analysis. In May 2010, a one-day accreditation retreat was held to do a comprehensive SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis and needs assessment. At the retreat, the mission, vision, and values of the College of Nursing were discussed. The Strategic Planning Committee reviewed the SWOT analysis along with SQU and Ministry of Health strategic plans to identify major issues needing to be addressed within the next fifteen years. The future initiative of the college of nursing is to establish postgraduate nursing education programs that respond to the needs of the Omani society and which foster faculty development and scholarship. Currently, strategic planning committee is developing goals and tactics to map out a strategic plan focusing on research, education, clinical practice, and community partnerships. A group of Nursing Students Exhibiting some of the health related activities at the College of Nursing in

89 MAJOR EVENTS IN THE COLLEGE IN PICTURES The CON celebrate a number of activities and events among them the International Nurses Day, World Health Days, University Day, Internship presentation and sport event and Galas. Highlights of these various events are summarized in a pictorial presentation. Dean Honor Awards 2012 Prof. Bazdawi Al Riyami, Dean, CON handing over to Ms. Laila Al Hajri, the CON Best Student Award for the year 2012 The College Retreat Mr. Abdullah Al Shukeiry and Mr. Nadeem Al Zadajli, Administrators of CON during the College Retreat at City Seasons Hotel, Muscat,

90 Dr. Melba D Souza and Mr. Ramesh V, facilitating during the College Retreat at City Seasons Hotel, Muscat, 2012 A cross section of the Faculty during a plenary session during the College Retreat at City Seasons Hotel, Muscat,

91 Community Outreach Acitvities Students performing health checks during a community outreach in 2012 Students performing a blood pressure check during a home visit as part of community outreach in

92 L-R, Mr Zayid Al Mahrooqi, Ms Wasfieh Sallom and Ms Ruby Natividad during the World Mental Health Day celebrations in 2012 Ms. Lina Shakman, Ms. Iman Al Hashmi and Dr. Santy Sajan, during Maternal and Child Health Department visit to Barka High School,

93 Dean s Dinner External Examiners, Head Nurses and CON Faculty attending Dean s Dinner after exit examinations in City Seasons Hotel, Muscat, 2012 Prof. Bazdawi Al Riyami and Dr. Raghda Shukri with External Examiners and Head Nurses during Dean s Dinner in City Seasons Hotel,

94 Alumni Day Prof. Bazdawi Al Riyami, the Dean, College of Nursing walking in for the Alumni day in Shangri-La Resort Hotel, Muscat, 2012 Prof. Bazdawi Al Riyami, Dean, CON with Staff, Faculty, Internal and External Examiners after Alumni day in Shangri-La Resort Hotel,

95 Potluck Lunch Staff and Faculty during the 2012 Potluck Lunch Prof. Bazdawi Al Riyami, Dean and Staff and Faculty of the College of Nursing during the 2012 Potluck Lunch 95

96 Staff and Faculty during the 2012 Potluck Lunch Staff and Faculty during the 2012 Potluck Lunch 96

97 Graduation and Oath Taking Ceremony Recitation of the Holy Quran during the opening ceremony H.E. Dr. Ali bin Saud Al-Bimani, Vice Chancellor, SQU and other dignitaries during College of Nursing Graduation Ceremony in

98 Male Nursing Graduands during the Graduation Ceremony of 2012 Female Nursing Graduands during the Graduation Ceremony of

99 College of Nursing Faculty, Staff and other guests during the Oath Taking Ceremony in 2012 Mr. Khalid Al Harrasi and Mr. Nadeen Al Zadjali, Administrators at College of Nursing during the Oath Taking Ceremony in

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