NURS 8201 WEEK 10: ASSIGNMENT 2 ARTICLE CRITIQUENURS 8201

Walden University NURS 8201 WEEK 10: ASSIGNMENT 2 ARTICLE CRITIQUENURS 8201– Step-By-Step Guide

This guide will demonstrate how to complete the Walden University NURS 8201 WEEK 10: ASSIGNMENT 2 ARTICLE CRITIQUENURS 8201 assignment based on general principles of academic writing. Here, we will show you the A, B, Cs of completing an academic paper, irrespective of the instructions. After guiding you through what to do, the guide will leave one or two sample essays at the end to highlight the various sections discussed below.

How to Research and Prepare for NURS 8201 WEEK 10: ASSIGNMENT 2 ARTICLE CRITIQUENURS 8201

Whether one passes or fails an academic assignment such as the Walden University NURS 8201 WEEK 10: ASSIGNMENT 2 ARTICLE CRITIQUENURS 8201 depends on the preparation done beforehand. The first thing to do once you receive an assignment is to quickly skim through the requirements. Once that is done, start going through the instructions one by one to clearly understand what the instructor wants. The most important thing here is to understand the required format—whether it is APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.

After understanding the requirements of the paper, the next phase is to gather relevant materials. The first place to start the research process is the weekly resources. Go through the resources provided in the instructions to determine which ones fit the assignment. After reviewing the provided resources, use the university library to search for additional resources. After gathering sufficient and necessary resources, you are now ready to start drafting your paper.

How to Write the Introduction for NURS 8201 WEEK 10: ASSIGNMENT 2 ARTICLE CRITIQUENURS 8201

The introduction for the Walden University NURS 8201 WEEK 10: ASSIGNMENT 2 ARTICLE CRITIQUENURS 8201 is where you tell the instructor what your paper will encompass. In three to four statements, highlight the important points that will form the basis of your paper. Here, you can include statistics to show the importance of the topic you will be discussing. At the end of the introduction, write a clear purpose statement outlining what exactly will be contained in the paper. This statement will start with “The purpose of this paper…” and then proceed to outline the various sections of the instructions.

How to Write the Body for NURS 8201 WEEK 10: ASSIGNMENT 2 ARTICLE CRITIQUENURS 8201

After the introduction, move into the main part of the NURS 8201 WEEK 10: ASSIGNMENT 2 ARTICLE CRITIQUENURS 8201 assignment, which is the body. Given that the paper you will be writing is not experimental, the way you organize the headings and subheadings of your paper is critically important. In some cases, you might have to use more subheadings to properly organize the assignment. The organization will depend on the rubric provided. Carefully examine the rubric, as it will contain all the detailed requirements of the assignment. Sometimes, the rubric will have information that the normal instructions lack.

Another important factor to consider at this point is how to do citations. In-text citations are fundamental as they support the arguments and points you make in the paper. At this point, the resources gathered at the beginning will come in handy. Integrating the ideas of the authors with your own will ensure that you produce a comprehensive paper. Also, follow the given citation format. In most cases, APA 7 is the preferred format for nursing assignments.

How to Write the Conclusion for NURS 8201 WEEK 10: ASSIGNMENT 2 ARTICLE CRITIQUENURS 8201

After completing the main sections, write the conclusion of your paper. The conclusion is a summary of the main points you made in your paper. However, you need to rewrite the points and not simply copy and paste them. By restating the points from each subheading, you will provide a nuanced overview of the assignment to the reader.

How to Format the References List for NURS 8201 WEEK 10: ASSIGNMENT 2 ARTICLE CRITIQUENURS 8201

The very last part of your paper involves listing the sources used in your paper. These sources should be listed in alphabetical order and double-spaced. Additionally, use a hanging indent for each source that appears in this list. Lastly, only the sources cited within the body of the paper should appear here.

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Sample Answer for NURS 8201 WEEK 10: ASSIGNMENT 2 ARTICLE CRITIQUENURS 8201

Over the years, research has played an important role in various sectors, healthcare included. In particular, research helps in improving patient outcomes by revealing new and effective strategies that can used to enhance and improve services offered to patients. In addition, research also helps unveil appropriate and relevant strategies that can be used to align workflow in the clinical environment and support the staff to perform to their optimum (Erickson & Pappas, 2020). The implication is that nurses need to understand the research process, as such an aspect can help integrate the research findings into evidence-based practice to enhance patient outcomes. One of the aspects that needs to be adequately understood by the nurses and even DNP students is an analysis of the research literature. Research literature contains valuable information that a researcher may like to use, critique, and appraise before deciding whether the findings are worthy of translation into practice. As such, the purpose of this assignment is to analyze a peer reviewed journal and develop a deeper understanding of the research process.

Overview of the Selected Study

This study focused on a quality improvement project or approach to improving medication reconciliation in the skilled nursing facility setting. The study was conducted as part of a major study known as the Multi-Center Medication Reconciliation Quality Improvement Study (Baughman et al.,2021). The research focused on enabling various sites to improve their medication reconciliation using a MARQUIS tool kit, which was an evidence-based guide specifically designed to enhance medication reconciliation. The research was carried out at a 112-bed US Department of Veterans Affairs skilled nursing facility. Various quality improvement methods were developed and used by the researchers. They aspects included healthcare failure mode, process mapping, stakeholder survey, and data benchmarking.

The study considered patients admitted to the long term care and transitional care units, with most of the patients admitted to the facility drawn from the local Veteran Affairs hospitals. In addition, a multi-care team composed of nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and physicians were all included as they offered care to these patients. The analysis of the results revealed important aspects. For example, baseline assessments showed that the medication reconciliation process was error-prone, which led to high rates of medication discrepancies. In addition, the provider process mapping and provider surveys also showed that the process used lacked standards and was extremely labor-intensive (Baughman et al.,2021). Various factors were also found to contribute to such observations, including exposing patients to multiple care transitions, electronic health record limitations, limited resources, and polypharmacy. The researchers found that it is important to use a methodological approach to identify and address the challenges and, use a validated and best possible medication history process, and use additional medication lists to help in accounting for multiple care transitions.

The Strengths of The Study

As part of an article analysis and critique, it is important to explore the strengths of a study; therefore, this section focuses on these strengths. One of the strengths lies in the design and data collection. The authors used comprehensive baseline assessments. For example, they used Healthcare Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (HFMEA), process mapping, stakeholder surveys, and data benchmarking. The use of these aspects is a demonstration of a well-designed approach that can help researchers understand the complexities associated with the medication reconciliation processes in a skilled nursing facility setting (Baughman et al.,2021). In addition, the comprehensive design also plays an important role in ensuring that adequate pictures of existing challenges and potential solutions or interventions which can be used for mitigation.

Another strength in the design is the use of validation of the best possible medication practice (BPMH). The validation helps confirm the appropriateness of the BPMH process within the skilled nursing facility context, which further helps in establishing the foundation for implementing evidence-based practices. Besides, the validation is important in ensuring that the intervention is reliable and relevance, which has further been highlighted in the discussion and result sections.

The other strength of this study is that it is based on a data-driven approach as reflected in data collection, statistical analysis, and results. The researchers applied quantitative measures and data benchmarking to assess unintentional medication discrepancies, which is a reflection of a rigorous data-driven approach (Mohajan et al.,2020). The approach is further visible in the statistical analysis and results sections, where the researchers have used objective measures to help quantify the extent of the medication discrepancies. The implication is that by ensuring that the study relies on data, the finding’s generalizability and credibility are enhanced.

The Weaknesses of the Study

It is evident in the previous section that this study has various advantages. However, there are also various weaknesses that may need improvement if a similar study were to be performed. One of the identified weaknesses is the potentially limited generalizability of the study findings. From the methodology section, the researcher reports that this study was conducted at a single 112-bed US Department of Veterans Affairs skilled nursing facility. Therefore, the limited scope of the study site raises questions regarding the generalizability of the findings obtained to other skill nursing facility settings, which could have different organizational structures, staffing levels, and patient populations. The implication is that such a phenomenon weakens the external validity of results, which limits the wider applications of the interventions used in this study (Degtiar & Rose, 2023).

There is also a potential bias in sampling and data collection. The researchers report that the baseline surveys solely relied on the self-reported data from the Skilled nursing facility providers, which introduces a potential response bias (Braun et al.,2021). It is possible that the providers might have been inclined to present a socially desirable or more favorable view of what they do as their usual practice. Such a phenomenon would lead to an underestimation or overestimation of the medication reconciliation challenges, which introduces bias in data collection. The introduction of the data collection bias, in turn, negatively impacts the survey results’ reliability, hence potentially influencing the accuracy of the findings.

This study also has weaknesses in terms of statistical analysis and results. For example, the study did not use a comparative analysis to determine the differences between observations before the intervention period and after the intervention period or pre-intervention and post-intervention phases. Even though the analysis comprehensively identified and highlighted the medication reconciliation challenges when performing the baseline assessments, the researchers ignored any comparative analysis, which could have helped in identifying any changes. Such a lack of comparative analysis limits the possibility of quantifying the impact of the interventions that have been implemented (Dolev-Amit et al.,2021). As such, introducing a comparison would have strengthened the study by showing how impactful the interventions were over time.

Medication errors negatively impact patients. Therefore, the best studies to help solve the problem should at least involve them  (Alqenae et al.,2020). However, this study did not consider patient perspectives as part of the study, which significantly denies its strengths related to design. While the study mainly focused on the healthcare providers, it ignored exploring the patient’s perspectives and experiences. Medication reconciliation entails various aspects, such as patient understanding and adherence; as such, their perspectives should have been included. Such perspectives and insights could have offered important information on the implications of medication discrepancies and errors in the care transitions. It is evident that this study has various weaknesses. As such, future research needs to address such weaknesses to improve the methodological robustness.

Proposed Changes to Improve the Quality Of the Study

Part of a comprehensive analysis and critique of research articles requires a proposal for changes that can be made to improve the quality of the study. Such proposed changes can significantly improve the methodological robustness of such studies. One of the identified weaknesses was the potential limited generalizability. Therefore, it is important to explore potential steps that can help eliminate this weakness. Generalizability can be enhanced in similar future studies by expanding the study so that it has multiple skilled nursing facilities with diverse characteristics (Lee et al.,2023). This can be achieved by collaborating with various healthcare systems to help obtain a wider range of populations, care practices, and organizational structures. Indeed, patterning with other skilled nursing facilities located in different regions would ensure the different healthcare delivery models and demographics are represented. In addition, the collaborative approach would help boost the findings’ external validity.

Another weakness identified was on the provider surveys, which could have introduced bias. It is also important to propose a solution for this weakness. One of the solutions is the implementation of objective measures for the provider surveys. As such, it will be important to integrate objective observations and measures with the already existing self-reported data. Such an approach can substantially improve the reliability of the survey results. The implication is that the results will be able to offer a more accurate representation of medication reconciliation practices. This aspect can be achieved by introducing an observational component where the researchers can assess the process of medication reconciliation independently, with a major focus on validating and complementing the self-reported data. The approach would help in enhancing the credibility of the findings.

The other weakness was identified as a lack of a pre- and post-intervention comparative analysis. Therefore, it is important to address this shortcoming; a more robust design that includes a pre-and post-intervention phase should be implemented (LoBiondo-Wood & Haber, 2021). Such an approach would ensure that the researchers can carry out a quantitative assessment of the impact of the implemented interventions or strategies on the medication reconciliation process. Again, this proposed change can be accomplished by establishing a baseline measure of the discrepancies in medication reconciliation, implementing the proposed intervention, and then carrying out a reassessment of medication discrepancies after the implementation of the intervention. Such a comparative analysis can reveal valuable information and insights into how effective the interventions are.

Implications of the Study For Nursing Practice

One of the major reasons why researchers carry out nursing research is to impact nursing practice and patient care positively. Therefore, the findings obtained in various research studies or efforts can be translated into practice to help impact patient practice and patient outcomes positively. Therefore, one area of potential implications would be an improvement in medication reconciliation to help improve patient outcomes related to medication errors, especially those errors that affect veterans. As such, this section focuses on the implications of the study for nursing practice.

One of the implications is that it can lead to enhanced awareness of challenges that face medication reconciliation awareness and knowledge. Through the findings in the study, nurses working in various skilled nursing facilities can benefit from having enhanced awareness regarding the challenges that come with medication reconciliation. Some of them would include the effects of care transitions on medication lists, possible sources of discrepancies, and understanding how complex the process is. Nurses can, therefore, apply such awareness and knowledge to advocate for a better process, more resources, and improved communication that can help improve medication reconciliation (LoBiondo-Wood & Haber, 2021). Besides, the nurses can also educate the caregivers and patients on why it is important to provide accurate and complete medication information during care transitions.

Another implication is that the study can help trigger patient-centered medication reconciliation. It was evident from the study that there is a limited exploration of the patient’s perspectives regarding the medication reconciliation process. As such, it should be recognized that the patients should actively be involved in the reconciliation process to enhance success. Nurses can, therefore, involve patients when discussing matters to do with their medication during the care transitions (LoBiondo-Wood & Haber, 2021). For instance, they can educate patients about why they need to adhere to the medication regimen and treatment plans, offer the patient succinct discharge instructions, and explore and uphold open communication if there are any cases of making medication regimen changes.

Conclusion

This write-up has focused on an analysis of a peer-reviewed journal focusing on reducing medication errors through strategies such as medication reconciliation. The study has various strengths and weaknesses, which have all been explored in this analysis. In addition, this study has various implications for nursing practice, such as the possibility of triggering a patient-centered medication reconciliation to improve patient outcomes.

References

Alqenae, F. A., Steinke, D., & Keers, R. N. (2020). Prevalence and nature of medication errors and medication-related harm following discharge from hospital to community settings: a systematic review. Drug Safety, 43, 517-537. Doi: 10.1007/s40264-020-00918-3

Baughman, A. W., Triantafylidis, L. K., O’Neil, N., Norstrom, J., Okpara, K., Ruopp, M. D., … & Simon, S. R. (2021). Improving medication reconciliation with comprehensive evaluation at a veterans affairs skilled nursing facility. The Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety, 47(10), 646–653. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcjq.2021.06.001

Braun, V., Clarke, V., Boulton, E., Davey, L., & McEvoy, C. (2021). The online survey as a qualitative research tool. International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 24(6), 641–654. https://doi.org/10.1080/13645579.2020.1805550

Degtiar, I., & Rose, S. (2023). A review of generalizability and transportability. Annual Review of Statistics and Its Application, 10, 501-524. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-statistics-042522-103837

Dolev-Amit, T., Rubin, A., & Zilcha-Mano, S. (2021). Is awareness of strengths intervention sufficient to cultivate wellbeing and other positive outcomes?. Journal of Happiness Studies, 22, 645-666.

Erickson, J. I., & Pappas, S. (2020). The value of nursing research. JONA: The Journal of Nursing Administration, 50(5), 243-244. Doi: 10.1097/NNA.0000000000000876

Lee, D., Yang, S., Dong, L., Wang, X., Zeng, D., & Cai, J. (2023). Improving trial generalizability using observational studies. Biometrics, 79(2), 1213-1225. https://doi.org/10.1111/biom.13609

LoBiondo-Wood, G., & Haber, J. (2021). Nursing research E-book: methods and critical appraisal for evidence-based practice. Elsevier Health Sciences.

Mohajan, H. K. (2020). Quantitative research: A successful investigation in natural and social sciences. Journal of Economic Development, Environment, and People, 9(4), 50-79. https://www.ceeol.com/search/article-detail?id=939590

Sample Answer 2 for NURS 8201 WEEK 10: ASSIGNMENT 2 ARTICLE CRITIQUENURS 8201

Introduction

Quantitative studies are considered rigorous given that approaches that have to be integrated into the research process. In most cases, researchers are required to adhere to the identified framework to ensure valid, applicable, and effective outcomes. Quantitative research processes are commonly applied in the healthcare systems to determine the clinical significance of a given practice approach. Compared to qualitative studies, quantitative studies are comprehensive and rigorous since they involve the collection and analysis of raw data (Newhouse et al., 2011). There are different processes that can be applied in the data collection processes. These processes are always in line with the methodologies that have been formulated, as well as the research questions (Benoit et al., 2018). The quantitative research study/article under consideration is “Effects of coping skills training in school‐age children with type 1 diabetes” by Grey, M., Whittemore, R., Jaser, S., Ambrosino, J., Lindemann, E., Liberti, L., … & Dziura, J. (2009). The study involves different techniques and methodologies commonly applied in the research processes. The main objective of the research is to enhance the understanding of the processes involved in the management of type 1 diabetes. The purpose of this assignment is to provide the summary of the article presented and to critique the methodologies that have been used as well as the information presented. 

Study Overview

The study under consideration is quantitative; there is the application of quantitative methodologies to enhance the determination of the accurate, valid, and applicable outcomes. The study involves the collection and analysis of raw data from the identified participants. The processes of data collection are well defined and are in line with the quantitative research requirements. Quantitative research processes often require elaborate procedures as well as different approaches to enhance accurate and effective outcomes. Some of the most important aspects or elements of quantitative studies involve research questions, hypothesis, problem statement, data collection, the definition of methodology, literature review, data analysis, discussion, and conclusion. From the quantitative study identified, the hypothesis was defined from the research questions and objectives (Grey et al., 2009). In other words, the hypothesis stated was a reflection of the objectives and research questions formulated in preparation for the research processes.    

The research was about the investigation of the effects of coping skills training in school‐age children with type 1 diabetes. Before engaging in the research process, respondents were identified from the population under the study. There was a consent form to be signed by the identified respondents to confirm their willingness to take part in the study process. A total of 82 respondents were identified for the study. The population under the study mainly involved school-aged children. Also, in the process of research, there was the consideration of the confidentiality of information. The data collected were properly kept in the databases to ensure the security of data. The outcome of the research process reflected the projected outcomes from the research objectives and research questions. From the research, coping skills training in school-aged children have significant impacts on type I diabetes.

Strengths of the Study

One of the strengths of the study is the provision of the data that is descriptive. The data allows the readers or individuals interested in the research to capture a snapshot of the user population under consideration. In most cases, readers or researchers have difficulties in interpreting the data or study outcomes. From the above study, there is a clear interpretation of the data and the outcomes of data analysis. The hypothesis testing has been well formulated, and a conclusion has been made. There is the provision of the crucial information that may be needed in the interpretation of data analysis outcomes.

Another strength of the study lies in the determination of statistical significance that confirms the reality or validity of the findings. There is also the determination of effect size that tells how much the findings matter. Proving the hypothesis was based on the statistical significance highlighted in the outcomes of data analysis (Purtle et al., 2015). With the statistical significance, it is easier to translate the information presented in the research process. The third strength in the study is the application of raw data to determine the outcomes of the research process. In most cases, data can be used to determine the validity of the study outcomes.

Weaknesses of the Study

One of the weaknesses of the study is the presentation of complex data analysis outcomes, which may be difficult to translate by non-statisticians or non-mathematicians. In most cases, quantitative data should present information that is easier to understand by all individuals (Grove et al., 2012). Presenting complex and quantitative data should be made easier for all the researchers and other individuals who may be involved in the study. The complexity of the data may interfere with the validity and general translation of the research outcomes. The above weakness can be addressed by engaging in the translation of the information or the outcomes of data analysis. The weakness can also be addressed through the collection and analysis of effective data. 

 Another weakness of the study is the improper representation of the target population; this interfered with the researcher’s ability to achieve the desired objectives or aims. From the study, despite the application of an appropriate sampling plan, the representation of data was not well performed. The representation of the subject is always dependent on the probability distribution from the observed data (Dharmarathna, 2020). The misrepresentation of data, as evident in the study, could lead to the miscalculations of the probability distribution and eventually lead to falsity in the proposition. The above weakness can also be addressed through the application of the correct sampling process. Simple random sampling techniques can be applied in ensuring the collection and analysis of effective and elaborate data. In some cases, the weaknesses may not have significant impacts on the study processes. However, in most cases, these weaknesses can interfere with the research process’s validity, applicability, and significance.  

Proposed Changes to Improve the Quality of the Study

Some of the major changes that may be required in improving the quality of the study may involve addressing the weaknesses and improving the strengths involved in the study process. One of the major approaches that can be undertaken to improve the quality of the study is to enhance sampling processes. In most cases, the sample ought to be representative of the entire population under the study (Becker et al., 2018). A proper sample size can always eliminate weaknesses associated with the quantitative study processes. With effective identification of the population and sample, researchers may achieve proper representation of the target population. With the proper sampling and representation of the population under the study, it is easier to determine the desired objectives or aims of the study. With effective outcomes in the data analysis processes, it is easier for the researcher to enhance the quality of the research outcomes. 

The weakness associated with data analysis can be addressed by engaging in the translation of the information or data analysis outcomes. The weakness can also be addressed through the collection and analysis of effective data. Engaging in quality data analysis processes is one of the ways of improving the quality of the research outcomes.

The Implication to Nursing Practice

The study’s outcomes can be applied to improve nursing practices. Specifically, the outcomes of the study can be applied to enhance the nursing practices, particularly when it comes to the management of type I diabetes among school-going children and other patients. The study is also significant in enhancing the practices required in enhancing general outcomes in the study processes. The study’s implication will be the advancement in knowledge and levels of healthcare practices in different healthcare settings. The target audience in the dissemination process includes health professionals such as nurses, physicians, and doctors. Also, nursing students may be included or form part of the audience.

Conclusion

Quantitative studies are considered rigorous given that approaches that have to be integrated into the research process. In most cases, researchers are required to adhere to the identified framework to ensure valid, applicable, and effective outcomes. One of the strengths of the study is the provision of the data that is descriptive. One of the weaknesses of the study is the presentation of complex data analysis outcomes, which may be difficult to translate by non-statisticians or non-mathematicians. Some of the major changes that may be required in improving the quality of the study may involve addressing the weaknesses and improving the strengths involved in the study process.

References

Becker, K. D., Johnson, S., Rucker, D., & Finnell, D. S. (2018). Dissemination of scholarship across eight cohorts of doctor of nursing practice graduates. Journal of clinical nursing, 27(7-8), e1395-e1401. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jocn.14237

Benoit, K., Watanabe, K., Wang, H., Nulty, P., Obeng, A., Müller, S., & Matsuo, A. (2018). quanteda: An R package for the quantitative analysis of textual data. Journal of Open Source Software, 3(30), 774. https://joss.theoj.org/papers/10.21105/joss.00774.pdf

Dharmarathna, D. G. (2020). Book Review: Transitions and Tools that Support Scholars’ Success by Mary Renck Jalongo and Olivia N. Saracho. Vidyodaya Journal of Management, 6(2).

Grey, M., Whittemore, R., Jaser, S., Ambrosino, J., Lindemann, E., Liberti, L., … & Dziura, J. (2009). Effects of coping skills training in school‐age children with type 1 diabetes. Research in nursing & health, 32(4), 405-418. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/nur.20336

Grove, S. K., Burns, N., & Gray, J. (2012). The practice of nursing research: Appraisal, synthesis, and generation of evidence. Elsevier Health Sciences.

Newhouse, R. P., Morlock, L., Pronovost, P., & Sproat, S. B. (2011). Rural hospital nursing: Results of a national survey of nurse executives. JONA: The Journal of Nursing Administration, 41(3), 129-137. https://journals.lww.com/jonajournal/Abstract/2011/03000/Rural_Hospital_Nursing__Results_of_a_National.7.aspx

Purtle, J., Peters, R., & Brownson, R. C. (2015). A review of policy dissemination and implementation research funded by the National Institutes of Health, 2007–2014. Implementation Science, 11(1), 1-8. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s13012-015-0367-1

Sample Answer 3 for NURS 8201 WEEK 10: ASSIGNMENT 2 ARTICLE CRITIQUENURS 8201

The Cultural Meaning of Suicide: What Does That Mean?

Thoughts of the Article and Its relation to Topics covered.

The article provides an overview of suicide and the cultural meaning that has eluded many researchers as well as theorists. The author asserts that the cultural significance of suicide differs from individual purpose because of the different cultural perspectives on the issue. The article notes that individuals commit suicide in various cultures for different reasons, yet several of these typologies do not provide a common approach. Imperatively, the author posits that the meaning of suicide differs from one culture to another (Lester, 2011). As a result of the differences in meaning, scholars should use lay theories to ascertain the purpose of the phenomenon where individuals in such cultures and subcultures ascribe to the beliefs.

The article also relates to different topics covered in the textbook on suicide behaviors, particularly the motives of suicide and the role that values play in exacerbating the problem. As illustrated in the textbook, values function as sanctions against suicide in many settings. For instance, the article demonstrates that suicide rates in countries where a majority profess a specific religious faith have low suicide (Lester, 2011). Again, the acceptability of suicide varies from one culture to another, and researchers need to consider the psychodynamics associated with suicide in different countries and cultural settings.  

Interesting Questions the Article Raises

The article raises fundamental yet interesting questions about suicide, its commission, and motives in different cultural settings. For instance, the question about reasons for suicide is significant since, based on prevailing cultural beliefs, many have a diverse perception of the viability and acceptability of suicide. As such, what moves individuals to commit suicide has no cultural commonality and, therefore, makes it difficult to define the phenomenon as a cultural issue because many cultures do not consider it ethical and morally justified (Lester, 2011). The article also raises a fundamental question about individual desires arising from personal or societal issues that affect a person who opts to commit suicide. Again, the article does not increase the subject of ill-motive and scapegoating as motives for suicide.

Common Predictors of Suicide, Treatments, and Prevention Programs

As observed by the article, the motives for suicide are different based on the ten typologies presented by the author. Additionally, the precipitants for suicide predict the possibility of an individual killing themselves, and they vary from one culture to another. However, long-term and chronic illnesses like mental health conditions, including depression, alcoholism, drug abuse, and socioeconomic conditions, are significant predictors of suicide (Fosse et al., 2017). Individuals suffering from economic hardships, unemployment and low income may resort to suicide. For instance, a culture may also offer predictions for suicide where one issue leads to higher rates of a reported suicide. 

Suicidal thoughts and ideation may be a symptoms of a mental health issues like depression or a disorder. Therefore, relevant treatment interventions can assist in tackling the problem. These include cognitive behavioral therapy, as well as counseling. However, the treatment of suicidal thoughts and behavior differs due to specific situations. Further, suicide prevention is critical in ensuring that individuals access the right interventions before they attempt the act. Prevention programs should focus on engaging the affected individual to understand what they think about the problem and how to secure and keep them safe (National Institute of Mental Health, 2019). Individuals should also have access to emergency contacts and centers where they can seek help.

Definition of Suicide

Suicide is the intentional killing of oneself based on different self-justifying reasons. Imperatively, suicide is viewed differently in many cultures. For example, in Western culture, suicide ideation and thoughts exist in society, and individuals who commit suicide are seen as ineffective in attaining their goals. However, in other cultures like in Asia, suicide is unethical irrespective of the intent, whether medically or otherwise (Abrutyn & Mueller, 2018). Again, religious cultures across the world have sanctions on suicide, as they are not allowed to commit such acts as they are considered a bad omen.

References

Abrutyn, S. & Mueller, A. S. (2018). Toward a cultural-structural theory of suicide:

Examining excessive regulation and its discontents. Sociological Theory; https://doi.org/10.1177/0735275118759150

Fosse, R., Ryberg, W., Carlsson, M. K., & Hammer, J. (2017).  Predictors of suicide in the

patient population admitted to a locked-door psychiatric acute ward. PLoS One, 12(3): e0173958.

Lester, D. (2011). The cultural meaning of suicide: What does that mean? OMEGA, 64(1)

 83-94.

National Institute of Mental Health (2019). Suicide Prevention. Retrieved from

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/suicide-prevention/index.shtml