A Two-Front War: Exploring Military Families' Battle with Parental Deployment.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to identify ways parents comfort their children to help them cope and adapt to the stresses of the deployment of a mother or father in military service, as well as the reintegration process of the parent returning home. DESIGN AND METHODS: This qualitative study used a hermeneutic phenomenological approach to better understand the lived experiences of these families and strategies used to combat stressors of deployment and post-deployment. Using purposive and snowball sampling for recruitment, participants completed an online anonymous survey that consisted of demographic and open-ended questions. A study sample of 15 participants (n = 15) was selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Using an interpretive framework for data analysis, six themes emerged from the survey. RESULTS: Six themes emerged from the data including the value of family communication, the importance of maintaining a routine, the occurrence of behavioral issues and emotional distress in children, the use of creative coping strategies, the need for parental self-care, and the resilience of the military families. CONCLUSION: There are unique challenges for military families during and after deployment that can be mitigated with identified strategies. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Incorporation of the study's findings into nursing practice will enhance patient education and anticipatory guidance for military families with children experiencing or planning for a parental deployment.

Implementing Pediatric Fluoride Varnish Application in a Rural Primary Care Medical Office: A Feasibility Study.

INTRODUCTION: The objective of this study was to determine if the application of fluoride varnish (FV) to children 5 years and under was acceptable and practical for health care providers in a rural primary care office. METHODS: We employed a quasi-experimental study design comprised of providers who received education and training in FV application. Pre- and post-study surveys regarding barriers and facilitators were administered. Data was collected on the number of FV applications, time spent on procedure, perceived barriers, and overall cost. RESULTS: The total direct variable cost of providing FV was $4.35 per procedure, resulting in an $11.85 profit. FV application increased 9.57%. Potential barriers were lack of proper supplies, lack of adequate support staff, and lack of additional financial compensation for providers. DISCUSSION: FV application is a service that can be delivered in a rural practice with existing resources, but the initiative needs support from practice management.