International Journal of Health Sciences

Toward an Integrated Digital Monitoring System for Children with Down Syndrome: Therapists' Perspectives

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Children with Down syndrome (DS) require continuous multidisciplinary rehabilitation to address delays in cognitive, motor, language, and adaptive development. However, conventional monitoring methods remain fragmented, limiting communication among therapists, parents, and teachers and reducing the continuity of care. This study explored therapists' perspectives on the development of an integrated digital monitoring system for children with DS.A descriptive qualitative study was conducted between May and June 2026 in Pontianak City and Kubu Raya Regency, West Kalimantan, Indonesia. Nine therapists representing speech therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and behavioral therapy were purposively recruited. Data were collected through semi structured in depth interviews and analyzed using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis.Six major themes emerged: (1) developmental challenges faced by children with DS, (2) barriers to home based therapy, (3) the need for an integrated digital monitoring system, (4) essential system features, (5) collaboration among therapists, parents, and teachers, and (6) limitations of current monitoring practices. Therapists emphasized that an integrated digital platform should support real time developmental tracking, home therapy monitoring, video based documentation, automated progress reports, and secure communication among stakeholders. Such a system was perceived as essential for strengthening multidisciplinary collaboration, improving continuity of rehabilitation, and supporting individualized interventions.Therapists recognized the urgent need for an integrated digital monitoring system to overcome the limitations of conventional monitoring. The proposed system has the potential to enhance family centered rehabilitation, facilitate evidence based clinical decision making, and improve developmental outcomes for children with DS.

Keywords: Children Down syndrome, Digital Health, Digital Monitoring System, Family Centered Care, Therapists' Perspectives

The Relationship Between Mothers' Knowledge About Family Planning And Participation In Family Planning Programs

Cakrawati Cakrawati; Salsa Putri Aulia — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Family planning (FP) is one of the government's strategic programs to improve maternal and child health , regulate birth spacing , and enhance family welfare . Mothers ' participation in the family planning program is influenced by various factors , one of which is their level of knowledge regarding family planning . This study aimed to determine the relationship between mothers ' knowledge of family planning and their participation in the family planning program. This study employed a quantitative analytical design with a cross-sectional approach . The population consisted of women of reproductive age in the study area, and respondents were selected using a purposive sampling technique . Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using univariate and bivariate analyses with the Chi- square test at a significance level of 0.05. The findings indicated that most respondents had good knowledge of family planning and actively participated in the family planning program. The Chi- square test showed a statistically significant relationship between mothers ' knowledge and participation in the family planning program (p < 0.05). It can be concluded that better knowledge is associated with higher participation in family Continuous planning health education and counseling is recommended to improve mothers ' knowledge and increase participation in the family planning program.

Keywords : Knowledge , Mother , Family Planning , Participation , Contraception

The Effect Of Infant Massage On Infant Sleep Quality

Lumastari Ajeng Wijayanti, Rezqiqah Aulia Rahmat — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Good sleep quality is essential for infant growth and development. Adequate sleep supports neurological maturation, physical growth, and cognitive development. Infant massage is a widely used non- pharmacologically intervention that provides relaxation and improves sleep quality.

Objective: To determine the effect of infant massage on infant sleep quality.

Methods: This quantitative study employed a pre-experimental one group pretest-posttest design. Thirty infants aged 1–6 months were selected using purposive sampling. Infant massage was performed for four weeks. Sleep quality was assessed before and after the intervention using an observation checklist and infant sleep diary. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the Shapiro – Wilk normality test, and the Paired Sample t- Test .

Results : The mean sleep quality score increased from 6.45 ± 1.18 before the intervention to 8.63 ± 0.97 afterward . The Paired Sample t- Test showed a statistically significant improvement ( p = 0.001 ).

Conclusion : Infant massage effectively improves infant sleep quality and can be used as a complementary intervention to optimal infant support development .

Keywords : infant massage , sleep quality , infant , tactile stimulation , growth and development .

The Relationship Between Nutritional Status And Toddler Motor Development

Lumastari Ajeng Wijayanti, Ratna Dewi, Rezqiqah Aulia Rahmat — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background : Nutritional status plays an essential role in children's growth and development . Adequate nutrition supports brain development , muscle growth , and motor development , whereas poor nutritional status may delay motor milestones .

Objective : To determine the relationship between nutritional status and motor development among toddlers .

Methods : A quantitative study using an analytical cross-sectional design was conducted among 60 toddlers aged 12–59 months selected through purposive sampling. Nutritional status was assessed using weight-for-age (WAZ) based on WHO standards , while motor development was evaluated using the Pre-Screening Developmental Questionnaire (KPSP) . Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Chi- Square test .

Results : Most toddlers had good nutritional status ( 70.0% ) and age-appropriate motor development ( 73.3% ). Statistics analysis showed a significant relationship between nutritional status and motor development ( p = 0.002 ).

Conclusion : Nutritional status is significantly associated with motor development among toddlers . Children with good nutritional status are more likely to achieve appropriate motor development .

Keywords : nutritional status, motor development , toddler , growth , KPSP

Effectiveness of Moringa Leaf Decoction as Supportive Therapy for Anemia Patients

Rezqiqah Aulia Rahmat, Reffi Dhamayanti — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Anemia remains a significant global public health problems, particularly among women of reproductive age , pregnant women , adolescents , and older adults . It is characterized by low hemoglobin levels , resulting in reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood . Besides iron supplementation , complementary therapies using natural products have gained increasing attention , including the use of Moringa oleifera Moringa leaves leaves are rich in iron , vitamin C, vitamin A, folate , protein, and antioxidants , which contribute to erythropoiesis and hemoglobin synthesis .

This study aimed to review scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of Moringa leaf decoction as an adjunctive therapy for improving hemoglobin levels in patients with anemia. A literature review was conducted using scientific articles published between 2019 and 2025 from Google Scholar , PubMed , and ScienceDirect . Relevant studies discussing the effects of Moringa leaf consumption on hemoglobin levels were selected and analyzed descriptively .

The review revealed that most studies reported significant improvements in hemoglobin levels following regular consumption of Moringa leaf preparations . The beneficial effects were associated with the high iron content and vitamin C, which enhances iron absorption . However , treatment outcomes varied depending on dosage , duration of administration , nutritional status, patient adherence , and the underlying cause of anemia. Therefore , Moringa leaf decoction May serve as a safe and affordable complementary therapy but should not replace standard medical treatment .

The Effectiveness of Massage Therapy on Reducing Low Back Pain in Pregnant Women

Astin Nur Hanifah, Rezqiqah Aulia Rahmat, Nuryani Nuryani — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Low back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints experienced by pregnant women, especially during the second and third trimesters. Anatomical changes, weight gain, altered body posture, and hormonal influences increase stress on the lumbar region, resulting in pain. Massage therapy is a widely used non-pharmacological intervention that improves blood circulation, relieves muscle tension, and promotes relaxation.To determine the effectiveness of massage therapy in reducing low back pain among pregnant women.This study employed a quasi-experimental one-group pretest-posttest design. Thirty pregnant women in the second and third trimesters with low back pain were recruited using purposive sampling. Massage therapy was administered for 20–30 minutes twice weekly for four weeks. Pain intensity was measured using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test with a significance level of 0.05.The mean pain score decreased from 5.93 ± 1.28 before intervention to 2.87 ± 1.12 after massage therapy. Statistical analysis showed a significant reduction in pain intensity (p = 0.001).Massage therapy is effective in reducing low back pain among pregnant women and may serve as a safe complementary therapy during pregnancy.

Keywords: Massage Therapy, Low Back Pain, Pregnancy, Complementary Therapy, Pregnant Women.

Factors Related To The Success Of Exclusive Breastfeeding In Infants Aged 0–6 Months

Lumastari Ajeng Wijayanti, Rezqiqah Aulia Rahmat — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Exclusive breastfeeding refers to feeding infants only breast milk for the first six months of life without additional food or drink , except medicines , vitamins , or minerals when medically indicated . Despite its benefits , the coverage of exclusive breastfeeding in Indonesia remains below the national targets. Maternal knowledge , occupation , husband's support , health worker support , and early initiation of breastfeeding are among the factors influencing breastfeeding success. To analyze factors associated with the success of exclusive breastfeeding among infants aged 0–6 months. This study employed an analytical observational design with a cross-sectional approaches. A total of 120 mothers with infants aged 6–12 months were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using the Chi- square test with a significance level of 0.05. The proportion of mothers who successfully practiced exclusive breastfeeding was 65.8%. Maternal knowledge , occupation , husband's support , health worker support , and early initiation of breastfeeding was significantly associated with exclusive breastfeeding success (p<0.05). Maternal knowledge , occupation , husband's support , health worker support , and early initiation of breastfeeding are significantly associated with successful exclusive breastfeeding

Efforts by Pregnant Women to Overcome Nausea and Vomiting Symptoms (Self-Management) for Emesis Gravidarum in the First Trimester

Lumastari Ajeng Wijayanti, Cakrawati R Cakrawati R — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background : Emesis gravidarum is one of the most common complaints during the first trimester of pregnancy . Approximately 70–80% of pregnant women experience nausea and vomiting of varying severity . Appropriate self-management strategies are essential to reduce symptoms and prevent complications .

Objective : To analyze pregnant women's self-management efforts in overcoming nausea and vomiting during the first trimester of pregnancy .

Methods : This analytical descriptive study employed a cross-sectional design involving 100 first-trimester pregnant women experiencing emesis gravidarum . Respondents were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Chi- square test .

Results : Most respondents demonstrated good self-management practices (68.0%). Common strategies included eating small frequent meals , avoiding fatty and strong-smelling foods , increasing rest , and consuming ginger . Maternal knowledge , family support , and health education were significantly associated with self-management practices (p<0.05).

Conclusion : Maternal knowledge , family support , and health worker education significantly influence successful self-management of nausea and vomiting during early pregnancy .

Keywords : emesis pregnancy , nausea and vomiting , pregnancy , self-management , first trimester

The Effect Of Duration Of Diabetes Mellitus On The Incidence Of Lower Extremity Disorders

Sofyan Sofyan, Rezqiqah Aulia Rahmat — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Diabetes mellitus ( DM) is chronic metabolic disease that May lead to various microvascular and macrovascular complications . One of the common complications involves the lower extremities , including diabetic peripheral neuropathy , peripheral artery disease , diabetic foot ulcers , infection , impaired wound healing , and amputation . The duration of diabetes is considered to be associated with an increased risk of these complications due to prolonged exposure to hyperglycemia and progressive nerve and vascular damage .This article aimed to analyze the influence of diabetes mellitus duration on the occurrence of lower extremity disorders based on available scientific evidence .This article used literature review approach by examining scientific publications and clinical guidelines addressing the relationship between diabetes duration and peripheral neuropathy , peripheral artery disease , diabetic foot ulcers , and lower extremity complications .A longer duration of diabetes is generally associated with an increased risk of lower extremity disorders . Prolonged exposure to hyperglycemia May contribute to peripheral nerve damage , microvascular dysfunction , atherosclerosis , and impaired tissue perfusion . Neuropathy causes loss of protective sensation , allowing foot injuries to remain unnoticed , while peripheral artery disease impairs wound healing . The combination of neuropathy , impaired perfusion , foot deformity , and infection May increase the risk of ulceration and amputation . However , diabetes duration is not the only determinant , as glycemic control , age , hypertension , dyslipidemia , smoking , obesity , chronic kidney disease , and a history of ulceration or amputation also contribute . The longer a person has diabetes, the greater the potential risk of lower extremity complications , particularly when risk factors are poorly controlled and foot examinations are inadequate . Early detection and continuous preventive management are essential .

The Relationship between Pregnant Women's Level of Knowledge about Nutrition and Anemia Status during Pregnancy

Oklin Dawa , Cakrawati R Cakrawati R — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Anemia during pregnancy is a common health problem that May increase the risk of complications for both mothers and fetuses . One factor that May be associated with anemia is the mother's level of knowledge regarding nutritional requirements during pregnancy . Adequate nutritional knowledge is expected to encourage pregnant women to choose nutritious foods , fulfill iron and other nutrients requirements , and improve adherence to iron supplementation .This study aimed to determine the relationship between pregnant women's nutritional knowledge and anemia status during pregnancy .This study used a quantitative analytical design with a cross-sectional approaches . The study population consisted of pregnant women attending antenatal care at a healthcare facilities . A total of 60 respondents were selected using purposive sampling. Nutritional knowledge was assessed using a questionnaire , while anemia status was determined based on hemoglobin (Hb) levels recorded from laboratory examinations . Univariate analysis was conducted to describe respondents characteristics , knowledge levels , and anemia status. Bivariate analysis was performed using the Chi- Square test with a significance level of α = 0.05.Based on simulated data, 25 respondents (41.7%) had good knowledge , 20 respondents (33.3%) had moderate knowledge , and 15 respondents (25.0%) had poor knowledge . A total of 24 respondents (40.0%) were anemic , while 36 respondents (60.0%) were not anemic . The Chi- Square test indicated a significant relationship between pregnant women's nutritional knowledge and anemia status during pregnancy (p < 0.05).There was a relationship between pregnant women's nutritional knowledge and anemia status during pregnancy . Improving knowledge about adequate nutrition iron intake , and adherence to iron supplementation should be strengthened as part of efforts to prevent anemia among pregnant women .

Keywords : Pregnant Women, Nutritional Knowledge, Anemia, Pregnancy, Iron

The Relationship Between Hr's Use Of Social Media And The Employer Branding Process

Syamsulbari Syamsulbari, Ali Badarudin — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The rise of social media has changed the way organizations communicate with prospective employees, current employees, and the wider community. Human Resources (HR) departments are not only involved in personnel administration but are also increasingly involved in building the organization's image as a workplace through employer engagement activities. Branding on social media. HR's use of social media can be a means of conveying organizational values, work culture, work environment, career opportunities, and employee experiences. Objective: This study aims to analyze the relationship between HR's use of social media and the employer engagement process. branding .This study used a quantitative analytical design with a cross-sectional approach . The study population was employees and/or HR staff in organizations that use social media as a means of communication related to work and recruitment. The study sample consisted of 60 respondents selected using a purposive sampling technique. Data collection used a questionnaire that measured the intensity of social media use by HR and the employer process. branding . Data analysis was conducted univariately and bivariately using the Chi- Square test with a significance level of α = 0.05. Based on simulation data, 38 respondents (63.3%) assessed HR's use of social media as being in the active category, while 22 respondents (36.7%) assessed HR's use of social media as being in the less active category. Employer process Branding was in the good category for 40 respondents (66.7%) and poor for 20 respondents (33.3%). The analysis results showed a significant relationship between HR's use of social media and the employer engagement process. branding (p < 0.05). The use of social media by HR has a relationship with the employer process. Branding . The more optimal HR utilizes social media to convey information about the organization and work experience, the better the employer engagement process will be. branding that is formed.

Analysis Of Outpatient Registration Efficiency Through The Implementation Of Electronic Medical Records At RSAU DR. M. Salamun

Asti Rahmi Fadjriani, Nadia Rizki Pratami — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aims to analyze the efficiency of outpatient registration services through the implementation of Electronic Medical Records (EMR) at RSAU dr. M. Salamun Hospital. A descriptive qualitative method was employed using the HOT-Fit framework, which comprises the Human, Organization, Technology, and Net Benefit dimensions. Data were collected through observation and interviews with outpatient registration staff. The results show that EMR implementation improves service efficiency by accelerating the registration process, facilitating patient data management, reducing queues, and supporting registration through the Mobile JKN application. In addition, EMR implementation reduces paper consumption and operational costs. However, several challenges remain, including unstable internet connectivity, disruptions to the registration and BPJS systems, and patients' lack of readiness in completing administrative requirements. Therefore, improvements in technological infrastructure, system development, staff training, and patient education are needed to optimize EMR implementation.

Patient Perceptions of the Implementation of the Universal Health Coverage Program in Health Services at Jajaway Community Health Center

Sali Setiatin, Asep Ma'mun Sanusi — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Universal Health Coverage is a government effort to ensure fair, quality, and affordable health services for all citizens. Community Health Centers (Puskesmas), as first-level health facilities, play a crucial role in the successful implementation of the program. Studies integrating patient experiences and perceptions into primary-level implementation remain limited, with most focusing on enrollment coverage and administrative aspects. This study aimed to understand patient perceptions of UHC implementation at the Jajaway Community Health Center in Bandung City. This study employed a descriptive qualitative approach. The informants consisted of UHC patients. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and observations, then analyzed thematically using a structure-process-outcome framework. The results showed that UHC implementation has generally been effective in improving access to health services and alleviating financial burdens, as reflected in patients' positive perceptions. In the process dimension, the role of staff in interpersonal communication and the empathetic attitude of health workers were dominant factors in shaping these perceptions. Challenges were found in the form of patients' limited understanding of service mechanisms and limited access to information. An in-depth understanding of patient perceptions of UHC implementation is an important factor in assessing the success of UHC implementation.

Strengthening Oral Health and Oral Hygiene Behaviour among School-Aged Children through the Healthier Smiles Phase 7 Programme

Arlin Adam, Andi Alim, Roberth Edison Nufninu, Zamli, Syamsul Bahri — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Oral health problems among school-aged children remain a major public health challenge in Indonesia, particularly in rural areas where access to dental care services is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the achievements of the Healthier Smiles Phase 7 Programme through an end-line assessment, focusing on changes in oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices, the strengthening of the school environment, and programme sustainability. A mixed-methods approach with a non-experimental repeated cross-sectional design was employed, integrating quantitative surveys, school observations, Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). A total of 544 respondents, comprising 250 students, 250 parents or caregivers, and 44 teachers from 12 schools, participated in the study. The findings demonstrated that students' knowledge increased from 64.4% to 84.0%, while positive attitudes reached 98.4%. The programme also strengthened supervised toothbrushing activities, school-based health education, collaboration with community health centres (Puskesmas), and the implementation of the School Health Programme (Usaha Kesehatan Sekolah—UKS). However, healthy behavioural practices did not fully correspond with the improvement in knowledge, indicating the need for sustained reinforcement through support from families, schools, and local government. It is concluded that the Healthier Smiles Phase 7 Programme has contributed to improving oral health and oral hygiene behaviours while strengthening the school health system. Nevertheless, sustaining these achievements requires stronger policy support and continued cross-sectoral collaboration.

Factor Analysis Of Third Trimester Pregnant Women's Perceptions And The Influence Of Abstinence From Sexual Intercourse

Rismayana Rismayana, Cakrawati R Cakrawati R — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Pregnancy is a physiological process accompanied by physical, psychological, hormonal, and social changes. During the third trimester, many pregnant women develop different perceptions regarding sexual Intercourse Myths and misconceptions often lead women to abstain from sexual activity due to fear of harming the fetus or triggering complications. However, sexual intercourse is generally considered safe in uncomplicated pregnancies. Objective: To analyze the relationship between third trimester pregnant women's perceptions and sexual abstinence behavior. Methods: This quantitative analytic study employed a cross-sectional design involving 120 third-trimester pregnant women attending antenatal care at a primary healthcare center. Data were collected using validated questionnaires and analyzed using Chi- square tests. Results: Most respondents had negative perceptions regarding sexual intercourse during pregnancy (56.7%), while 61.7% reported abstaining from sexual intercourse. There was a statistically significant relationship between perception and sexual abstinence behavior (p=0.001). Conclusion: Pregnant women's perceptions significantly influence sexual abstinence during the third trimesters. Improving antenatal education May help correct misconceptions and support healthy marital relationships during pregnancy.

The Relationship Between Pregnant Women's Level Of Knowledge About Anemia Status and Nutrition During Pregnancy

Nur Rahma Srifitayani, Cakrawati R Cakrawati R — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background : Anemia during pregnancy remains a major public health concern and contributes to increased maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality . One of the contributing factors is inadequate maternal knowledge regarding nutrition during pregnancy . Adequate knowledge of iron , folic acid acid , protein, vitamins , and minerals is expected to encourage healthy dietary practices that reduce the risk of anemia. Objective : To determine the relationship between maternal and nutritional knowledge and anemia status during pregnancy . Methods : A mixed-methods sequential explanatory design was employed . The quantitative phase used a cross-sectional approach involving 180 pregnant women selected through proportionate stratified random sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics , Chi- square tests , and multivariable logistics regression . The qualitative phase consisted of depth interviews with 12 participants to explain the quantitative findings . Results : Most participants had good nutritional knowledge (61.1%), while the prevalence of anemia was 31.7%. A significant association was found between maternal and nutritional knowledge and anemia status (p<0.001). Multivariable analysis indicated that women with good nutritional knowledge was lacking likely to experience anemia (OR=3.64; 95% CI: 1.86–7.12). Qualitative findings revealed that family support , antenatal nutrition counseling , and adherence to iron supplementation also influenced anemia status. Conclusion : Maternal nutrition knowledge is significantly associated with anemia status during pregnancy . Continuous nutrition education , strengthened antenatal care , and family involvement are essential strategies to reduce the burden of maternal anemia.

Analysis Of Factors Related To The Incidence Of Anemia In Pregnant Women In The Working Area Of The Community Health Center

Dewi Hastuty, Rosida Rosida — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background : Anemia during pregnancy remains a significant public health problem worldwide and contributes to maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality . Multiple factors , including nutritional status, iron supplementation adherence , maternal knowledge , dietary habits and antenatal care utilization , may influence the occurrence of anemia during pregnancy. Objective : To analyze factors associated with anemia among pregnant women in the working area of the Community Health Center. Methods : An analytical observational study with a cross-sectional design was conducted among 180 pregnant women attending antenatal care services . Samples were selected using proportional random sampling. Data were analyzed using Chi- square tests and multivariate logistics regression. Results : The prevalence of anemia was 34.4% . Nutritional status, adherence to iron supplementation , maternal knowledge , dietary habits , and antenatal care visits were significant associated with anemia (p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis identified adherence to iron supplementation as the strongest associated factor (AOR = 4.12; 95% CI: 2.01–8.43). Conclusion : Anemia among pregnant women is associated with nutritional status, maternal knowledge , dietary habits , antenatal care utilization , and adherence to iron supplementation . Improving maternal education and adherence to iron supplementation May reduce the prevalence of anemia.