1.Psychometric Properties of the Competency Inventory for Registered Nurses
ALIMA ; ; Solongo D ; Baasanjav N ; Khulan G
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;93(3):151-156
Background:
Developing a standardized methodology and a reliable and valid assessment tool for assessing the professional competence of nurses in Mongolia is of great importance for nursing research and practice.
Aim:
To determine the psychometric properties of the Mongolian version of the Competency Inventory for Registered Nurses.
Materials and Methods:
This study was conducted using a methodological research design. The study included 550 nurses from 11 state hospitals and collected data between June and December 2024 using the Competency Inventory for Registered Nurses Scale (CIRN) developed by Ming Liu et al. (2007).
Result:
The internal reliability of the questionnaire was Cronbach’s alpha coefficient (Cronbach’s α=0.98). Content validity indices (Content Validity Index CVI) were I-CVI ≥ 0.78, S-CVI/Ave=0.98, and S-CVI/UA=0.85, indicating good content validity. Varimax factor analysis revealed factor loadings ranging from 0.380 to 0.780.
Conclusion
1. The Mongolian version of the Competency Inventory Registered Nurses demonstrated adequate internal reliability.
2. The validity of the questionnaire was confirmed to be acceptable.
2.First successful whole lung lavage for pulmonary alveolar proteinosis in Mongolia: A Case Report
Amartuvshin G ; ; Altanzul L ; Ichinnorov D ; ; Naidansuren Ts ; Solongo B ; Densenbal D ; ; Tumen-Ulzii G ; ; Allabyergyen M ; Tumurjin G ; Khaliun P ; Tamir L ; Erdenetuya E ; Byambasuren S ; Ankhzaya B ; Ganbold L ; Manaljav Ts ;
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;93(3):212-216
Background:
Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is a rare lung disorder characterized by the accumulation of surfactant within the alveoli, leading to impaired gas exchange and respiratory insufficiency. Although the disease is uncommon, it significantly affects patients’ quality of life and requires specific diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Whole lung lavage (WLL) is considered the standard treatment; however, it has not been widely implemented in Mongolia. We report the first successful case of WLL performed for PAP in Mongolia.
Case Presentation:
A 56-year-old male presented with dyspnea. Chest computed tomography demonstrated a bilateral “crazy paving” pattern. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was positive for periodic acid–Schiff (PAS) staining, and anti–GM-CSF antibodies were detected, confirming the diagnosis of PAP. WLL was performed under general anesthesia using a double-lumen endotracheal tube with bronchoscopic guidance. One lung was ventilated with 100% oxygen while the contralateral lung was sequentially lavaged with 800–1000 mL of warm (37°C) saline per cycle until the effluent became clear. A total of approximately 20 liters of saline was used.
Result:
The procedure was completed successfully without complications. Following treatment, the patient showed marked clinical improvement with reduced dyspnea and increased exercise tolerance. Oxygen saturation improved from 88% to 93%, and spirometric parameters (FVC, FEV₁) demonstrated improvement. Chest imaging revealed a reduction in pulmonary opacities.
Conclusion
This case demonstrates the successful implementation of whole lung lavage (WLL) in Mongolia and highlights its importance in improving the diagnostic and therapeutic capacity for rare pulmonary diseases such as pulmonary alveolar proteinosis. The procedure resulted in significant improvement in clinical, functional, and radiological parameters, consistent with findings from international studies. Early diagnosis of PAP and the adoption of standardized protocols in accordance with international guidelines are essential to optimize treatment outcomes and enhance patients’ quality of life.
3.Evaluation of nurse–patient interaction among Hemodialysis patients based on Jean Watson’s theory of human caring
Oidov V ; Khulan G ; Solongo D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;95(5):89-93
Background:
Nursing theories help nurses understand the values and beliefs related to human health and support them in providing effective and compassionate care to patients. Nursing theorist Jean Watson defined the relationship between nurses, patients, and their families as an interpersonal interaction, referring to it as a “transpersonal caring relationship.” Currently, there is a lack of studies based on Jean Watson’s theory that examine how nurses’ attitudes and behaviors influence the quality of life of patients undergoing hemodialysis. Therefore, this topic was selected for the present study.
Aim:
To determine how nurse–patient interaction influences patients undergoing hemodialysis based on Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring.
Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional study design was employed using a quantitative survey method. The study included 72 patients undergoing hemodialysis at Medvic Hospital. The Caring Nurse–Patient Interaction Scale (CNPI-70P), patient version, was used to assess attitudes and behaviors in nurse–patient interactions. This instrument was originally developed by Sylvie Cossette in 2005. Official permission to use the patient version of the questionnaire was obtained from the author on March 29, 2023. Data collection was conducted between December 2025 and January 2026. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze subscales, independent sample t-tests were applied to compare group differences, and Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to determine relationships among variables.
Results:
The mean age of the participants was 38.8±10.5 years, with a mean age of 39.3 years for males and 38.1 years for females. The overall evaluation of nurse–patient interaction in nursing care among patients undergoing hemodialysis was at a moderate level (3.78±0.82). There was no statistically significant difference between the mean ages of the two groups (t (70) =0.494, p=0.623). The reliability of the CNPI-70 questionnaire was very high, with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.988. Among the subscales, the highest score was observed for “meeting human needs” (M=4.16, SD=0.87), indicating that nurses most frequently supported patients in fulfilling their needs. High scores were also observed for “humanism” (M=4.02, SD=0.80) and “helping relationship” (M=4.00, SD=0.86). In contrast, the lowest score was found for “sensitivity” (M=3.39, SD=1.13), followed by “spirituality” (M=3.47, SD=0.99) and “problem-solving” (M=3.56, SD=1.07), indicating comparatively lower levels in these aspects. The mean scores of the remaining factors ranged from 3.72 to 3.95.
Conclusion
Nurse–patient interaction among patients undergoing hemodialysis was found to be at a moderate level (3.78±0.82). However, aspects related to understanding patients’ sensitivity, providing emotional support, and meeting spiritual or psychological needs were relatively lower.
4.Stress among university faculty members
Solongo D ; Odgerel B ; Taivanjargal G ; Ariunaa J ; Delgermaa S ; Orgilmaa R
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;95(5):293-297
Background:
Teaching is a profession associated with high levels of stress. Research has shown that when job demands are high while organizational support is insufficient, levels of stress and burnout increase.
Aim:
Prior to conducting our study aimed at determining the stress levels among university faculty members, we performed a literature review.
Materials and Methods:
We conducted a literature search using the PubMed and Embase databases for studies published in English without restriction on publication year, including all relevant articles available up to September 2025. The search strategy included the following keywords: “stress,” “researchers,” “university professors,” “academic researchers,” “college,” “academics,” “scholars,” “teachers,” and “professors.”
Results:
We searched for English-language publications in the PubMed and Embase databases without year restrictions, including studies published up to September 2025. The search was conducted using the following mesh terms: “stress,” “researchers,” “university professors,” “academic researchers,” “college,” “academics,” “scholars,” “teachers,” and “professors.” A total of 3,961 articles were identified from the database search. After screening titles, 2,944 articles were excluded. Subsequently, 58 articles were reviewed based on their abstracts, and 12 studies that were relevant to our research objectives and questionnaire were selected for analysis.
Conclusion
This review study demonstrated that stress levels among university and college faculty members are high. Stress is associated with multiple factors, including workload, organizational support, and performance demands, leading to negative physical and psychological consequences. Therefore, it is necessary to implement systematic institutional-level interventions to support the well-being of faculty members.
5.The significance of exhaled nitric oxide in the diagnosis of asthma
Densenbal D ; Solongo B ; Ankhbold G ; Amarsanaa O ; Battsengel Ts ; Zesemdorj O ; Janchivdorj Z ; Ankhil L ; Tseepil E ; Odonchimeg B ; Sarantuya J ; Ichinnorov D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;86(2):14-18
Background:
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by bronchoconstriction and breathing difficulties,
which can be triggered by both allergic and non-allergic mechanisms. In allergic asthma, a hyperreactivity reaction
occurs, leading to an increase in fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) levels. Therefore, FeNO is used to differentiate
allergic and non-allergic types of asthma. In recent years, studies have been conducted to assess FeNO as an indicator of
treatment effectiveness and symptom control. Our goal is to introduce FeNO measurement in Mongolia for the first time
and utilize it for asthma diagnosis and treatment outcome evaluation.
Aim:
Study of FeNO levels in Asthma Diagnosis in Relation to Laboratory Findings and Lung Function
Materials and Methods:
This study included a total of 70 adult patients (18 years and older) with asthma who visited the
Outpatient Clinic of Mongolia-Japan Hospital and Shargaljuut Spa Clinic from May to December 2024. Based on their
allergic history, total IgE levels, and peripheral blood eosinophil count, participants were classified into allergic (>5%)
and non-allergic (<5%) asthma. The study aimed to determine the diagnostic specificity and sensitivity of FeNO levels.
Asthma control levels were assessed using the Asthma Control Test (ACT), lung function was evaluated using spirometry,
and exercise capacity was measured with the 6-minute walk test.
Results:
In a single measurement, there were no differences between the allergic and non-allergic groups in parameters
other than total IgE, peripheral blood eosinophil count, and FeNO levels. For diagnosing the allergic form of asthma, at
a FeNO level of 25 ppb, sensitivity (Se) was 0.68, specificity (Sp) was 0.30 (p=0.008); at 40 ppb, Se was 0.77, Sp was
0.31 (p=0.001); and at 50 ppb, Se was 0.74, Sp was 0.33 (p=0.001). Lung function and exercise capacity were similar in
both asthma groups.
Conclusion
The sensitivity of FeNO in distinguishing between allergic and non-allergic forms of asthma is 67-81%, and
its sensitivity tends to increase as the FeNO level rises. By distinguishing the allergic type in which inhaled corticosteroids
are more effective, the outcome of asthma treatment can be predicted in advance based on the FeNO level.
6.Short-term effects of hot spring therapy on asthma
Densenbal D ; Ichinnorov D ; Ankhbold G ; Amarsanaa O ; Battsengel Ts ; Zesemdorj O ; Janchivdorj Z ; Ankhil L ; Tseepil E ; Tumen-Ulzii G ; Еkaterina Faermark ; Odonchimeg B ; Solongo B
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;86(2):19-23
Background:
Asthma management should be individualized, evidence-based, aimed at controlling clinical symptoms,
preventing severe exacerbations, and improving quality of life. Studies have shown that inhalation therapy with iodine-
bromide saltwater improves lung function in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), while radon-containing
mineral water inhalation reduces inflammation and oxidative stress in asthma. Several studies have analyzed the
composition of the Shargaljuut hot spring, with Oyuntsesteg et al. identifying high levels of Na+-HCO3
- and Na+-SO4.
Other studies on mineral water therapies have reported benefits such as thinning bronchial secretions, improving sputum
clearance, reducing inflammation and acidity, mitigating oxidative stress, and enhancing quality of life.
Aim:
To study the effectiveness of combined asthma treatment with inhaled corticosteroids and hot spring inhalation.
Materials and Methods:
The study included 67 participants diagnosed with asthma who consented to participate and
underwent 10 days of combined inhaled corticosteroid therapy and mineral water inhalation at Shargaljuut sanatorium. A
total of 57 participants completed the pre- and post-treatment assessments. Treatment result was assessed using Asthma
control questionnaire 7, asthma symptom control with Asthma Control Test (ACT), and exercise tolerance by a 6-minute
walk test. Chest X-rays were taken for all participants to rule out pneumonia, cancer, or pulmonary fibrosis. Treatment
outcomes were evaluated using ACT scores, peripheral blood eosinophil count, total IgE levels in serum, spirometry indices
(FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC), and the 6-minute walk distance.
Results:
The average age of participants was 52±12 years, with a predominance of females. The mean asthma control
score was 14.2±4.80, indicating poor asthma control. After 10 days of inhaling corticosteroids combined with hot spring
inhalation post-treatment quality of life increased by 0.5 points, FEV1 improved by 7.5%, FVC by 4.2%, peripheral
blood eosinophil count decreased by 0.3%, and total Ig E levels dropped from 73.3 (22.5; 216) to 73.2 (21.3; 223) u/ml
(p=0.000).
Conclusion
In cases of uncontrolled asthma remission, combining of inhaled corticosteroid therapy with hot spring
inhalation at Shargaljuut improved asthma symptoms, quality of life, enhanced lung function, and reduced inflammatory
markers (p<0.001).
7.Comparative study of subcutaneous fat area and visceral fat area among healthy and metabolic syndrome patients
Munkh-Erdene U ; Odmaa T ; Solongo Ts ; Ganchimeg S ; Egshiglen G ; Anir B ; Ariunaa A ; Navchaa G ; Tulgaa S ; Munkhtsetseg J
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;86(2):36-41
Background:
Obesity, especially central obesity, is a risk factor for non-communicable chronic diseases such as dyslipidemia,
type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), cardiovascular diseases (CVD), and metabolic syndrome (MetS).
Aim:
Study the association between the subcutaneous fat area (SFA) and visceral fat area (VFA) with lipid metabolism
parameters in adults with MetS.
Materials and Methods:
Data from 1511 participants who visited the ‘NURA Mongolia’ Ai Health screening center
between September 2023 and February 2024, including general information, DEXA (Dual X-ray Absorptiometry), and
biochemical analysis results, were used. Metabolic syndrome (MeS) was assessed based on the harmonizing criteria 2009
(≥3 criteria). VFA and SFA were categorized into four groups using quartiles (Q1-Q4). Statistical analysis was performed
using SPSS v26, including T-tests, multiple logistic regression (OR, 95% CI), and ROC (AUC) analysis.
Results:
The average age of the participants was 30.5±3.9 years, with a BMI of 25.1 kg/m², and 49.5% were male. The
group with MetS (n=531) had significantly higher levels of VFA and SFA compared to the group that rated their health as
relatively healthy and had no clinical diagnosis (n=979) (control group) (p<0.0001), with males showing higher VFA and
females showing higher SFA (p<0.0001). The Q4 group for VFA had a significant association with MetS in males (4.611,
95% CI=2.394–9.591) and females (2.253, 95% CI=1.097-3.912) (p<0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that increased
VFA was more strongly associated with MetS in males (β=0.325, p<0.0001) and females (β=0.338, p<0.003) than
BMI. The AUC for predicting MetS was 0.790 (95% CI=0.750-0.831) for VFA and 0.401 (95% CI=0.351-0.451) for SFA,
with all results being statistically significant (p<0.001). VFA had a higher predictive value compared to other markers.
Conclusion
In healthy men with metabolic syndrome, VFA is more prominently defined, while SFA is higher in healthy
women. Since VFA is a better predictor of metabolic syndrome than SFA, it increases the risk of diseases such as cardiovascular
diseases and type 2 diabetes in men, whereas SFA in women serves as a protective factor.
8.Analysis of the reliability and validity of the competency inventory registered nurses scale
ALIMA ; ; Khulan G ; Solongo D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;89(5):72-78
Background:
Ensuring the quality of healthcare services relies heavily on the professional competence of nurses. This
study aimed to assess the internal consistency and construct validity of a competency assessment questionnaire developed
for nurses working in tertiary-level hospitals in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Aim:
The aim of this study is to determine the internal reliability and construct validity of the questionnaire used to assess
nurses’ competency
Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional study design was conducted among 390 nurses employed at tertiary hospitals
in Ulaanbaatar. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Internal reliability was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha,
and construct validity was assessed through exploratory factor analysis (EFA).
Results:
The 55-item questionnaire demonstrated excellent internal reliability (Cronbach’s alpha=0.981). The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) measure was 0.972, and Bartlett’s test of sphericity was significant (p<0.001), indicating the
data were suitable for factor analysis
Conclusions
1. The internal consistency of the questionnaire showed a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.981, indicating excellent
reliability. In addition, the Cronbach’s alpha values for each of the seven subscales were all above 0.90, demonstrating
strong inter-item correlations and stability of the measurement indicators. The developed questionnaire is a highly
reliable and valid tool for assessing the competencies of nurses in Mongolia. Its strong psychometric properties
support its use in both research and professional development contexts.
2. Factor analysis was conducted using the Varimax rotation method to evaluate the construct validity of the
questionnaire. The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) measure was 0.972, and Bartlett’s Test of Sphericity was significant
(p<0.001), indicating that the data were suitable for factor analysis. The analysis identified seven factors, each with
a loading above 0.60, confirming the high construct validity of the measurement tool.
9.Psychometric Properties of the Mongolian Version of the Competency Inventory for Registered Nurses
ALIMA ; ; Khulan G ; Solongo D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;90(6):78-83
Background:
The development and evaluation of nurse competency is an important research area that directly impacts
the improvement of nursing quality and the optimization of the healthcare systems.
Aim:
To determine the psychometric properties, specifically the reliability and content validity, of the Mongolian version
of the Competency Inventory for Registered Nurses.
Materials and Methods:
Research approval was obtained from the research ethics committee of the MNUMS (approval
no. 2024/3-06), and adhering to ethical principles. Copyright owners granted permission to the principal investigator (PI)
to use and translate the CIRN. Three bilingual experts were invited to be involved in the forward–backward translation
process into the Mongolian language. Instrument reliability was pilot-tested with 30 nurses, who had similar characteristics
with study sample. We collected data from 550 registered nurses, randomly selected and working in 11 reference-level
and national centers in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar, and five Regional Diagnostic and Treatment Centers (RDTCs) of
Mongolia.
Results:
The most of participants were female (96.9%); ages ranged from 20 to 63 ages with an average of 36.50. The
internal consistency reliability of the CIRN was very high and Cronbach’s alpha coefficients were 0.97 respectively. The
content validity indices (I-CVI≥0.78, S-CVI/Ave=0.98, S-CVI/UA=0.85) indicated satisfactory content validity. Factor
analysis with Varimax rotation showed factor loadings ranging from 0.380 to 0.780.
Conclusions
1. The Mongolian version of the Competency Inventory for Registered Nurses (CIRN) confirmed acceptable
internal reliability.
2. The Mongolian version of the Competency Inventory for Registered Nurses (CIRN) was confirmed
to be a valid instrument with appropriate content validity.
10.Trifocal intraocular lens implantation to treat visual demands in Mongolian patients
Narangarav G ; Tsendjargal G ; Davaa D ; Uranchimeg D
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2023;203(1):17-21
Introduction:
Intraocular lens (IOL) implants are monofocal and trifocal lenses which helps to clear up the vision after cataract surgery.
Goal:
In this work, we aimed to compare the monofocal and trifocal IOL implantation during phacoemulsification surgery.
Materials and Methods:
This study was conducted on 133 participants. Females comprised n=81, mean n=52 into equal groups. Preoperative and Postoperative cataract surgery UCVA and BCVA were measured and compared during the after 1 day, week 1, 2 weeks and month1.
Statistical analysis:
The results of the study were processed using the SPSS 25.0 program after coding the data and checking for typographical errors. The normality of the data distribution was tested by inspecting a histogram. Categorical variables were compared using the chi-square test or Fisher's test. Statistical significance was determined at a p-value lower than 0.05
Ethical statement:
The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (No.2021/05/21). All patients provided written informed consent before participating in this study.
Results:
The mean preoperative UCVA was 1.09±0.45D in monofocal IOL group, 0.99±0.49D in trifocal IOL group. At the first week: The mean postoperative UCVA at one week was 0.34±0.29D and 0.27±0.17D, in each group respectively. The mean postoperative BCVA in the first week was 0.28±0.27D and 0.20±0.15D in each group respectively. The mean postoperative UCVA at 1 month was 0.27±0.24D and 0.15±0.16D in each group, while BCVA was 0.26±24.94D and 0.06±0.63D.There was a highly significant statistical difference between the result of UCVA preoperative and the results of UCVA at the early and last postoperative follow up.
Conclusion
From our results, the best corrected visual acuity and was better for Trifocal group than Monofocal group. It is evident that post-operative near UCVA and BCVA was statistically significant at monofocal and trifocal groups.
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