1. Research Development Cell

The Research Development Cell (RDC) at Mount Zion College of Nursing plays a vital role in fostering a research-oriented culture among faculty and students. Its primary functions include:

• Facilitating Research Initiatives: Encourages and supports research activities across various nursing domains.
• Providing Research Guidance: Assists students and staff in developing research proposals, reviewing methodologies, and ensuring the validity of findings.
• Collaboration with External Agencies: Works closely with local healthcare organizations, medical institutions, and governmental bodies for research collaborations and funding.
• Organizing Workshops/Seminars: Regular workshops, seminars, and conferences are conducted to update faculty and students on new research methodologies, technological advancements, and ethical research practices.
• Promoting Ethical Research: Ensures that all research conducted adheres to ethical standards, protecting the rights of participants and ensuring transparency.

2. Research Contributions

At the undergraduate level, students pursuing the B.Sc. (Nursing) program at Mount Zion College of Nursing (MZCN) engage in university logbook-based research projects. These projects are conducted in groups and are carefully guided by our dedicated faculty members.

The research focuses on diverse topics and is carried out in a variety of clinical and non-clinical settings, providing students with hands-on experience in evidence-based practices, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

Over the years, Mount Zion College of Nursing has contributed significantly to nursing and healthcare research. Below is an overview of the contributions made by the college through various studies and research theses:

Completed Research Theses:

• 2013 to 2023: The college has successfully completed various research studies focusing on public health issues, disease management, education, and healthcare practices. These studies have been instrumental in improving the quality of healthcare and nursing education in Pudukkottai and surrounding areas.
• Research Areas:
• Women's Health: Including studies on menstrual health, maternal education, breastfeeding, and cervical cancer vaccination.
• Chronic Diseases: Studies on diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and kidney disease management.
• Mental Health: Research on substance abuse, mental illness attitudes, and the impact of stress and academic pressures.
• Child Health: Including studies on immunization, child abuse, and learning disabilities.
• Infectious Diseases: Focusing on prevention and management of diseases like dengue fever, HIV/AIDS, and COVID-19.
• Effective Teaching Programs: Several research studies focused on the effectiveness of structured teaching programs (STP) and video-assisted teaching in enhancing knowledge and health practices among students, teachers, and community members.

Ongoing Research Projects:

• 2023 to 2024: Several cutting-edge research projects are currently being conducted, focusing on emerging health issues like smartphone addiction, childhood obesity, cord blood banking, and menopausal symptoms management.
• Areas of Focus:
• Addiction and Technology: Ongoing studies on smartphone addiction among adolescents and the effects of cool lip usage among youths.
• Chronic Disease Management: Projects addressing chronic kidney disease, childhood obesity management, and menopausal health.
• Maternal and Child Health: Research focused on the awareness of cord blood banking and its importance for expecting mothers.
• Community Health: Research on EECP (Enhanced External Counterpulsation) therapy and its impact on rural communities.

Conclusion

The Research Development Cell at Mount Zion College of Nursing has made significant strides in fostering a research culture and contributing to nursing knowledge through various completed and ongoing research projects. These efforts have helped address critical health issues, enhanced healthcare education, and contributed to community health improvements in the Pudukkottai region. Through continuous support and encouragement, the college aims to expand its research initiatives and remain at the forefront of nursing research and practice.