Jurnal Kesehatan Komunitas Indonesia

Enhancing Cognitive Function in Older Adults through Brain Gym: A Community Implementation in Petoran Hamlet, Surakarta

2026-01-10T06:03:32+00:00

Background: The elderly often struggle to accept the changes and setbacks they encounter. The changes that occur are not only physical, but also cognitive, sexual, and social in nature. Decreased brain function can lead to diseases such as delirium, dementia, psychological disorders, and neurological disorders. Nonpharmacological therapy to prevent cognitive decline in the elderly is an intervention that includes Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapy (CRT), one of which is activity therapy, namely, brain exercises. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of brain gymnastics application on improving cognitive function in the elderly in Petoran RT 01 RW 07 Jebres Village, Jebres District, Surakarta City. Method: This type of research employs a case study approach, utilizing descriptive methods and administering pre-test and post-test MMSE sheets. Results: Based on the application's results, there is an improvement in cognitive function. Conclusion: There are differences in the final results of cognitive function scores before and after participants were given brain gymnastics, with both groups showing an increase.

Application of Finger-Hold Relaxation Technique on Postoperative Pain Intensity in Laparotomy Patients: A Case Study in dr. Moewardi General Hospital, Surakarta

2026-01-10T06:03:30+00:00

Background: Effective postoperative pain management is essential to enhance recovery, reduce complications, and improve patient comfort following major abdominal surgery such as laparotomy. Non-pharmacological interventions offer safe adjuncts to conventional analgesia, particularly in resource-conscious or multimodal pain management settings. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the finger grip relaxation technique in reducing pain intensity among post-laparotomy patients. Methods: A descriptive case study was conducted with two female patients diagnosed with colon cancer who underwent elective laparotomy at Flamboyan 5 Ward, Dr. Moewardi General Hospital, Surakarta, Indonesia. Pain intensity was assessed using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS; 0–10) before and after the intervention. The finger grip relaxation technique, a simple, self-administered method involving rhythmic gripping and releasing of the fingers, was applied once daily for three consecutive days, with each session lasting 20 minutes. Results: Both patients exhibited clinically meaningful reductions in pain intensity following the intervention. Patient A’s NRS score decreased from 4 to 2, and Patient S’s score declined from 6 to 3, indicating a shift from moderate to mild pain levels. No adverse effects were observed. Conclusion: The finger grip relaxation technique is a feasible, non-invasive, and low-cost adjunctive strategy for managing acute postoperative pain after laparotomy. These preliminary findings support the integration of this approach into multimodal pain management protocols. However, larger controlled trials are warranted to confirm efficacy, determine optimal dosing, and assess broader clinical applicability.

Assessing Spiritual Distress in Post-Operative Orthopedic Patients: A Descriptive Study at dr. Soebandi Regional Hospital, Jember

2026-01-10T06:03:25+00:00

Background: Spiritual distress is a problem with the patient's response to health. Spiritual distress is a disturbance in the meaning of life about oneself, others, and God. Spiritual distress occurs due to spiritual needs not being met. Purpose: This study aims to determine spiritual distress in post-operative orthopedic patients in the surgical room at dr. Soebandi Regional Hospital Jember. Methods: This study employed a descriptive, consecutive sampling method involving 150 respondents from both major and minor post-operative orthopedic patients in 2023. Results: The majority of respondents in this study were men with varying ages and types of surgery, 80.7% experienced major surgery, and 19.3% underwent minor surgery. Data collection was conducted using the Spiritual Distress Scale questionnaire, and the results showed a median value of 74.00, with a minimum value of 33 and a maximum value of 103. This indicates that the resulting value is close to the maximum value of the questionnaire, suggesting a high level of spiritual distress. This can be caused by the high value placed on self-relationship, which encompasses the strengths that exist within a person, including knowledge and attitudes about oneself. This high value can occur due to a lack of knowledge about oneself and a lack of confidence in the future, leading to a loss of peace of mind. Conclusion: This research provides additional data and knowledge regarding spiritual distress in post-operative orthopedic patients. Patients with spiritual distress require maintenance of spiritual well-being, which helps them find meaning in life and experience a sense of peace. The results of this research make it possible for nurses to develop and understand the importance of spiritual care for patients

The Effect of Cucumber Juice Administration on Blood Pressure Reduction in Older Adults Hypertension: A Case Study

2026-01-10T06:03:27+00:00

Background: Hypertension remains a leading global public health concern, particularly among older adults. Non-pharmacological interventions, including dietary approaches, are increasingly recognized as complementary strategies for managing blood pressure. Cucumber juice, rich in potassium and water, has been proposed as a natural and accessible adjunctive therapy for hypertension. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of daily cucumber juice administration on blood pressure reduction in hypertensive patients in RW 07, Purwodiningratan Village, Surakarta City, Indonesia. Methods: A descriptive case study was conducted over seven days (April 27–May 3, 2025), involving two hypertensive respondents aged 45 years or older who were concurrently receiving amlodipine. Cucumber juice (200 mL/day) was administered daily, and blood pressure was measured before and two hours after consumption using a digital sphygmomanometer. Data were analyzed descriptively by comparing pre- and post-intervention blood pressure categories. Results: Respondent 1’s blood pressure decreased from 168/100 mmHg (Stage 2 hypertension) to 127/84 mmHg (normal) after seven days. Respondent 2’s blood pressure improved from 186/119 mmHg (Stage 3 hypertension) to 148/90 mmHg (Stage 1 hypertension). Both cases demonstrated a consistent daily decline in systolic and diastolic values throughout the intervention period. Conclusion: The daily administration of cucumber juice contributes to a significant reduction in blood pressure in hypertensive patients when used in conjunction with standard pharmacological treatment. These findings support the potential of cucumber juice as a feasible, low-cost non-pharmacological adjunct in community-based hypertension management. Further research with larger samples and controlled designs is recommended to validate these preliminary results.

Managing Pain Related Gout Arthritis in Elderly: An Intervention Using Ergonomic Exercise and Warm Lemongrass Compress in Joyotakan Village, Surakarta

2026-01-10T06:03:29+00:00

Background: Gouty arthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects many elderly people, characterized by severe pain that can interfere with daily activities. Non-pharmacological treatments are an essential alternative in reducing this pain. Objective: To determine the effectiveness of ergonomic exercises and warm compresses of lemongrass on pain levels in elderly people with gouty arthritis in RT 03 RW 02 Joyotakan Village, Serengan District, Surakarta City. Method: The research method employs a descriptive approach with observation sheets monitored by two respondents. Results: The study showed a decrease in pain levels in both respondents, from moderate to mild pain, and this improvement persisted after the intervention. Pain reduction was achieved through increased muscle relaxation and improved blood circulation, resulting from a combination of gymnastic movements and the analgesic effect of lemongrass leaves. Conclusion: Ergonomic gymnastics and warm compresses made from lemongrass leaves are effective in reducing pain levels in the elderly with gouty arthritis and can be applied as an alternative non-pharmacological therapy in the community.

Exploring the Role of Parenting in Shaping Adolescent Mental Health: A Review of Literature

2026-01-10T06:03:22+00:00

Background: Adolescence is an important period in a person's life, during which many physical, emotional, and social changes occur. During this time, adolescents often face mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, and depression, especially when they have difficulty adjusting to the changes. Parenting strongly influences adolescents' mental health, as it can help them cope with problems, increase their self-confidence, and maintain their emotional well-being. Aims: This study aims to investigate the impact of parenting on adolescents' mental health, examining both the positive and negative effects, and identifying the most effective approach to support adolescents' mental well-being. Methods: This study employed a literature review of articles published between 2019 and 2024. The articles were selected from various sources, including Google Scholar and PubMed. The selection process resulted in 10 articles relevant to this topic. Results: Research shows that parenting is closely related to adolescents' mental health. Authoritative parenting, which combines control with emotional support, can improve adolescents' mental well-being. Conversely, permissive or authoritarian parenting tends to be associated with mental health problems such as anxiety and depression in adolescents. Conclusion: Parenting has a significant influence on adolescents' mental health. Encouraging supportive parenting and providing space for self-development will help adolescents have better mental health.

Application of Slow Deep Breathing Therapy in Reducing the Scale of Pain in Post Section Caesarea Mothers in Jasmine Room, dr. Soediran Mangun Sumarso Regional Hospital, Wonogiri

2026-01-10T06:03:24+00:00

Background: Sectio caesarea (SC) is the act of removing the baby through an incision in the abdominal wall and uterus to save the mother and baby for several medical indications. Patients who undergo childbirth by SC usually feel various discomforts in the form of pain. One of the non-pharmacological actions that can be done to reduce pain is slow deep breathing. Objective: To find out the results of the slow deep breathing technique in reducing the pain scale in post-SC mothers in the Jasmine Room of dr. Soediran Mangun Sumarso Regional Hospital, Wonogiri. Methods: The research design used is a descriptive case study. Results: The application of the slow deep breathing technique for 2 days resulted in a decrease in the postoperative pain scale. In Mrs. Y, the postoperative pain scale with a pain scale of 7 (severe pain), the pain dropped to a scale of 3 (mild pain), while in Mrs. M the postoperative pain scale with a pain scale of 7 (severe pain) the pain dropped to a scale of 2 (mild pain). Conclusion: There was a decrease in the scale of post SC pain after the application of the slow deep breathing technique for 2 days

Implementation of Benson Relaxation to Lower Blood Pressure in Elderly Hypertensive Patients in Joyotakan Village, Serengan District, Surakarta

2026-01-10T06:03:21+00:00

Background: Hypertension is a common health condition among older adults and a major risk factor for cardiovascular complications. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as Benson relaxation, offer a safe and accessible approach to blood pressure management in the elderly. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Benson relaxation therapy on blood pressure reduction among older adults with hypertension in Joyotakan Village, Serengan District, Surakarta City, Indonesia. Methods: A descriptive case study design was employed with two elderly respondents diagnosed with stage I hypertension. Benson relaxation was administered once daily for three consecutive days, with each session lasting 10–20 minutes. Blood pressure was measured before and after each intervention. Inclusion criteria were: diagnosed hypertension, age ≥35 years, ability to communicate verbally, and willingness to participate. Exclusion criteria included altered consciousness or concurrent use of antihypertensive medication during the study. Results: Both respondents showed consistent reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure across all three days. Respondent Mrs. S’s blood pressure decreased from 145/100 mmHg to 130/80 mmHg (a reduction of 15/20 mmHg), shifting from Stage I hypertension to prehypertension. Respondent Mr. S’s blood pressure decreased from 142/105 mmHg to 120/77 mmHg (a reduction of 22/28 mmHg), reaching the normal range. Daily reductions ranged from 5–15 mmHg in systolic and 5–15 mmHg in diastolic pressure. Conclusion: Benson relaxation therapy demonstrated a positive effect in lowering blood pressure among elderly individuals with hypertension, supporting its use as an effective non-pharmacological nursing intervention in community settings.

Strengthening Service Quality–Based Work Culture to Improve Patient Satisfaction: A Case Study at Sayang Regional General Hospital, Cianjur Regency

2026-01-10T06:03:33+00:00

Background: Strengthening work culture grounded in service quality is critical for improving patient satisfaction, particularly in public healthcare settings. However, gaps persist in its consistent implementation among health workers and administrative staff. Objective: This study aimed to formulate a strategy for reinforcing a service quality–based work culture to enhance patient satisfaction at Sayang Hospital, Cianjur Regency. Methods: A qualitative case study was conducted using a descriptive-analytical approach. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and documentation, with source triangulation applied for validation. Informants included hospital management, medical personnel (doctors and nurses), administrative staff, and patients. Data analysis followed the Miles and Huberman interactive model comprising data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. Results: The service quality–based work culture at Sayang Hospital remains partial and inconsistently practiced. Patient satisfaction was rated as moderate, with recurring complaints concerning communication, service speed, and staff empathy. Key barriers included a weak quality-oriented performance evaluation system, insufficient training on service excellence, and limited transformational leadership among managers. Conclusion: To strengthen work culture, the study proposes an integrated strategy comprising continuous values-based training and coaching, embedding service quality indicators into performance management, and implementing a balanced reward-and-sanction system to promote patient-centered professionalism.

The Effect of Dhikr on Preoperative Anxiety Among Women Undergoing Elective Cesarean Section: A Pre-Experimental Study

2026-01-10T06:03:19+00:00

Preoperative anxiety in women undergoing cesarean section (CS) is a common problem that can affect physical and psychological conditions, including increased blood pressure, heart rate, and stress hormones, which can interfere with the surgical process and postoperative recovery. Spiritual approaches such as dhikr (Islamic prayer chanting) have been shown to calm the mind, improve emotional stability, and enhance patients' mental readiness before surgery. This study employed a single-group pretest-posttest pre-experimental design with 15 respondents from the Central Surgical Unit of Islamic Hospital of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Demak selected through purposive sampling. The dhikr intervention was conducted for 10 minutes, guided by a nurse before surgery. Anxiety levels were measured before and after the intervention using the Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS). The average anxiety score decreased from 24.6 before the intervention to 14.07 after the dhikr, and the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test (Z = -3.413, p = 0.001) showed a statistically significant decrease. These results indicate that spiritual interventions, including dhikr (remembrance of God), are effective in reducing preoperative anxiety by increasing psychological and physiological calm. These findings support the integration of dhikr into holistic nursing care to enhance psychological stability and mental readiness in patients.