Allison P Squires

Faculty

Prof. Allison P Squires headshot

Allison P Squires

FAAN PhD RN

Professor

1 212 992 7074

433 First Ave
New York, NY 10010
United States

Accepting PhD students

Allison P Squires, Ph.D., FAAN, RN, is a professor and the Director of the Global Consortium of Nursing and Midwifery Studies, or GCNMS. The GCNMS is an 82-country research consortium collaborating on research capacity-building projects in nursing and midwifery globally. The consortium's current research study is examining the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the nursing and midwifery workforces globally to understand how to improve global pandemic response implementation protocols for the largest frontline workforce cadre. Domestically, her research focuses on improving immigrant and refugee health outcomes with a special interest in addressing inequities in health outcomes resulting from language discordance during a healthcare encounter. For both, she is an expert in contextual considerations of global health care services implementation.

Prof. Squires has consulted with the Migration Policy Institute and the World Bank on nursing and health workforce issues and produced several major policy analyses with their teams. A prolific writer, Squires has authored over 200 publications, including 140+ in peer-reviewed journals. She serves as an associate editor of the top-ranked International Journal of Nursing Studies since 2012. She was the 2019–2020 Distinguished Nurse Scholar in Residence for the National Academy of Medicine where she worked on the consensus study "Future of Nursing 2020–2030: Charting a Path to Achieve Equity". In 2023, she received the Outstanding Mentor Award from the Interdisciplinary Research Group on Nursing Issues interest group of Academy Health.

Prior to entering academia full-time, Squires worked as a staff nurse in solid organ transplant and as a staff educator for 11 years in the U.S. healthcare system. Her practice has since shifted largely to community-based nursing roles as a volunteer.

Prof. Squires received her Ph.D. at Yale University, MSN at Duquesne University, and BSN with a minor in Latin American Studies at the University of Pennsylvania. She completed a Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Health Outcomes Research at the University of Pennsylvania. In addition to her primary appointment at the Rory Meyers College of Nursing at NYU, she holds affiliated faculty appointments/affiliations with the Department of General Internal Medicine at the Grossman School of Medicine, the Center for Latin American Studies, and the Center for Drug Use and HIV Research.

She is currently accepting Ph.D. students and/or post-doctoral fellows/associates with interests in the following areas: 1) global health, 2) migration & immigrant health, and 3) health services and workforce research.

Post-Doctoral Fellowship - University of Pennsylvania
PhD - Yale University
MSN - Duquesne University
BSN - University of Pennsylvania

Global
Immigrants
Gerontology
Health Services Research

Academy Health
American Nurses Association
Consortium of Universities for Global Health
Interdisciplinary Research Group on Nursing Issues (Academy Health)
National Council for Interpreting in Health Care
Sigma Theta Tau International

Chair of the Nursing Section of the New York Academy of Medicine (2022)
Co-Chair, American Academy of Nursing's Global Health Expert Panel (2021)
Chair of the Nursing Section of the New York Academy of Medicine (2021)
Vice-Chair, Global Health and Health Care Interest Group for Academy Health (2020)
Co-Chair, American Academy of Nursing's Global Health Expert Panel (2020)
Chair, Interdisciplinary Research Group on Nursing Issues for Academy Health (2020)
Chair of the Nursing Section of the New York Academy of Medicine (2020)
Distinguished Nurse Scholar in Residence, National Academy of Medicine (2020)
Vice-Chair, Global Health and Health Care Interest Group for Academy Health (2019)
Co-Chair, American Academy of Nursing's Global Health Expert Panel (2019)
Chair, Interdisciplinary Research Group on Nursing Issues for Academy Health (2019)
Chair of the Nursing Section of the New York Academy of Medicine (2019)
Distinguished Nurse Scholar in Residence, National Academy of Medicine (2019)
Chair, Global Health and Health Care Interest Group for Academy Health (2019)
Outstanding Scholarly Contribution to Gerontological Nursing Practice, International Journal for Older People Nursing (2018)
Chair of the Nursing Section of the New York Academy of Medicine (2018)
Chair, Global Health and Health Care Interest Group for Academy Health (2018)
Prose Award, “A New Era in Global Health” (W. Rosa, Ed.) (2018)
Vice Chair, Interdisciplinary Research Group on Nursing Issues for Academy Health (2018)
Fellow Ambassador to the Media, New York Academy of Medicine (2017)
Distinguished Alumna, Duquesne University (2015)
Fellow, American Academy of Nursing (2015)
Fellow, New York Academy of Medicine (2014)
Fellow, Yale World Fellows Program (2003)

Cultural adaptation of the Safety Attitudes Questionnaire - Short Form (SAQ-SF) in Poland

Malinowska-Lipien, I., Brzyski, P., Gabrys, T., Gniadek, A., Kozka, M., Kawalec, P., Brzostek, T., & Squires, A. (2021). PloS One, 16(2). 10.1371/journal.pone.0246340
Abstract
Abstract
Background It is essential to provide safe healthcare in complex, difficult, and quickly changing conditions. The quality of healthcare services directly influences the safety of both the patients and staff. Understanding healthcare staff attitudes toward safety in the healthcare delivery context is foundational for building a culture of safety. Aim of the work To adapt, via a structured translation methodology, the Safety Attitudes Questionnaire- Short Form (SAQ-SF), which assesses how employees of the health care sector perceive the safety climate in their workplace, to the Polish context. Methods Using a content validation approach to structure the translation process, we tested and psychometrically analysed the translated SAQ-SF. The sample comprised 322 employees of a district hospital (second referral level, which ensures 24/7 emergency care services) in Poland. Results The reliability of the sub-scales of the Polish version of the SAQ-SF ranged from 0.66 to 0.95. The discriminatory power of particular SAQ items ranged between 0.02 and 0.90. For 6 out of the 8 scale dimensions, the questions with the highest factor loadings were those measuring the same dimensions of the safety climate, according to the original scale. Conclusions The Polish version of the SAQ-SF (SAQ-SF-PL) meets the criteria of psychometric and functional validation as well as demonstrates good reliability as a measure of patient safety culture in the Polish context. The SAQ-SF-PL is an instrument that enable a valid and reliable assessment of patient safety climate in the Polish healthcare facilities and identify opportunities for improvement. International comparisons will also become easier.

Defining Telepresence as Experienced in Telehealth Encounters: A Dimensional Analysis

Groom, L. L., Brody, A. A., & Squires, A. P. (2021). Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 53(6), 709-717. 10.1111/jnu.12684
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose: Telehealth’s uptake has increased substantially in recent years, with an especially large jump in 2020 due to the emergence of COVID-19. This article provides background on and explores “telepresence” in healthcare literature. Telepresence strongly impacts the patient experience, but it is poorly defined in current research. The aim was to conceptually define telepresence using qualitative methods. Design: Dimensional analysis was used to analyze telepresence in clinical literature and create a clearer definition of telepresence as a concept. Multiple databases were searched for articles related to telepresence. Thirteen international articles related to telepresence were selected for analysis. Methods: Dimensional analysis allowed for multiple viewpoints to be explored within each distinct context and perspective. Findings: Twenty-five dimensions were discovered within the articles, which were synthesized to seven core dimensions of telepresence: connection, technological mediation, experienced realism, trust, being supportive, collaboration, and emotional consequence. Conclusions: Telepresence is highly impactful on the patient’s experience of telehealth care visits. The conceptual map produced by this dimensional analysis provides direction for clinicians to improve their ability to be present with patients during telehealth care. Potential implications include a starting point for future qualitative research, and the use of this dimensional analysis to inform clinical guidelines, improve clinician training, and assist in the development of new care models. Clinical Relevance: A telepresence definition brings clarity to an ill-defined concept. COVID-19 magnifies the need for a better understanding of telepresence, which allows clinicians to improve telehealth encounters.

Disparities in breastfeeding duration of New York City Latinx mothers by birth region

Gerchow, L., Squires, A., & Jones, S. (2021). Breastfeeding Medicine, 16(8), 607-613. 10.1089/bfm.2021.0030
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Disparities in breastfeeding patterns by race and ethnicity in the United States have been documented, and Latinx ethnicity is often associated with higher rates of breastfeeding initiation and longer breastfeeding duration compared to other U.S. racial and ethnic groups. Despite marked differences in infant feeding practices in Latinx countries of origin, U.S. breastfeeding data are routinely presented with Latinx as a single category. Objective: To analyze breastfeeding duration of New York City Latinx mothers by birth region. Methods: Using data from the 2016 New York City Work and Family Leave Survey (WAFLS) surveying residents who gave birth in 2014, we conducted a survival analysis of breastfeeding duration in a sample of Latinx-identifying mothers (n = 271), who reported having ever breastfed their child. Kaplan-Meier survival curves for time to breastfeeding cessation were created for four birth regions (United States, Caribbean, Mexico/Central America, and South America) and compared using the log-rank test. Adjusted hazard ratios (AHRs) were calculated using Cox regression. Results: Survival curves and median breastfeeding duration were significantly different between the four regions. AHR models found that non-Caribbean birthplace was significantly associated with a lower risk of early breastfeeding cessation. Being partnered at the time of childbirth and neonate hospitalization of 6 days or longer was associated with a greater risk of earlier breastfeeding cessation. Conclusion: The significant differences reinforce the need to separate breastfeeding findings by birth region in the Latinx population. Within-group differences are lost in combined analyses and reinforce conclusions that Latinx mothers have optimal breastfeeding behaviors.

Disparities in chronic kidney disease-the state of the evidence

Clark-Cutaia, M. N., Rivera, E., Iroegbu, C., & Squires, A. (2021). Current Opinion in Nephrology and Hypertension, 30(2), 208-214. 10.1097/MNH.0000000000000688
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose of review The purpose of this review was to assess the prevalence of United States chronic kidney disease (CKD) health disparities, focusing on racial/ethnic groups, immigrants and refugees, sex or gender, and older adults. Recent findings There are major racial/ethnic disparities in CKD, with possible contributions from the social determinants of health, socioeconomics, and racial discrimination. Racial/ethnic minority patients experience faster progression to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) and higher mortality predialysis, however, once on dialysis, appear to live longer. Similarly, men are quicker to progress to ESKD than women, with potential biological, behavioral, and measurement error factors. There is a lack of substantial evidence for intersex, nonbinary, or transgender patients. There are also strikingly few studies about US immigrants or older adults with CKD despite the fact that they are at high risk for CKD due to a variety of factors. Summary As providers and scientists, we must combat both conscious and unconscious biases, advocate for minority patient populations, and be inclusive and diverse in our treatment regimens and provision of care. We need to acknowledge that sufficient evidence exists to change treatment guidelines, and that more is required to support the diversity of our patient population.

Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs) for Global Health

Steeb, D. R., Brock, T. P., Dascanio, S. A., Drain, P. K., Squires, A., Thumm, M., Tittle, R., & Haines, S. T. (2021). Academic Medicine : Journal of the Association of American Medical Colleges, 96(3), 402-408. 10.1097/ACM.0000000000003856
Abstract
Abstract
PURPOSE: As global health education and training shift toward competency-based approaches, academic institutions and organizations must define appropriate assessment strategies for use across health professions. The authors aim to develop entrustable professional activities (EPAs) for global health to apply across academic and workplace settings. METHOD: In 2019, the authors invited 55 global health experts from medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and public health to participate in a multiround, online Delphi process; 30 (55%) agreed. Experts averaged 17 years of global health experience, and 12 (40%) were from low- to middle-income countries. In round one, participants listed essential global health activities. The authors used in vivo coding for round one responses to develop initial EPA statements. In subsequent rounds, participants used 5-point Likert-type scales to evaluate EPA statements for importance and relevance to global health across health professions. The authors elevated statements that were rated 4 (important/relevant to most) or 5 (very important/relevant to all) by a minimum of 70% of participants (decided a priori) to the final round, during which participants evaluated whether each statement represented an observable unit of work that could be assigned to a trainee. Descriptive statistics were used for quantitative data analysis. The authors used participant comments to categorize EPA statements into role domains. RESULTS: Twenty-two EPA statements reached at least 70% consensus. The authors categorized these into 5 role domains: partnership developer, capacity builder, data analyzer, equity advocate, and health promoter. Statements in the equity advocate and partnership developer domains had the highest agreement for importance and relevance. Several statements achieved 100% agreement as a unit of work but achieved lower levels of agreement regarding their observability. CONCLUSIONS: EPAs for global health may be useful to academic institutions and other organizations to guide the assessment of trainees within education and training programs across health professions.

Graduate level health professions education: how do previous work experiences influence perspectives about interprofessional collaboration?

Squires, A., Miner, S., Greenberg, S. A., Adams, J., Kalet, A., & Cortes, T. (2021). Journal of Interprofessional Care, 35(2), 193-199. 10.1080/13561820.2020.1732888
Abstract
Abstract
Understanding how previous experiences with interprofessional education and collaboration inform health care provider perspectives is important for developing interprofessional interventions at the graduate level. The purpose of this study was to examine how previous work experiences of graduate level health professions students inform perspectives about interprofessional education and collaboration. Drawing from program evaluation data of two separate graduate level interprofessional education interventions based in primary care and home health care, we conducted a qualitative secondary data analysis of 75 interviews generated by focus groups and individual interviews with graduate students from 4 health professions cadres. Using directed content analysis, the team coded to capture descriptions of interprofessional education or collaboration generated from participants’ previous work experiences. Coding revealed 173 discrete descriptions related to previous experiences of interprofessional education or collaboration. Three themes were identified from the analysis that informed participant perspectives: Previous educational experiences (including work-based training); previous work experiences; and organizational factors and interprofessional collaboration. Experiences varied little between professions except when aspects of professional training created unique circumstances. The study reveals important differences between graduate and undergraduate learners in health professions programs that can inform interprofessional education and collaboration intervention design.

How clinicians manage routinely low supplies of personal protective equipment

Ridge, L. J., Stimpfel, A. W., Dickson, V. V., Klar, R. T., & Squires, A. P. (2021). American Journal of Infection Control, 49(12), 1488-1492. 10.1016/j.ajic.2021.08.012
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Recommended personal protective equipment (PPE) is routinely limited or unavailable in low-income countries, but there is limited research as to how clinicians adapt to that scarcity, despite the implications for patients and workers. Methods: This is a qualitative secondary analysis of case study data collected in Liberia in 2019. Data from the parent study were included in this analysis if it addressed availability and use of PPE in the clinical setting. Conventional content analysis was used on data including: field notes documenting nurse practice, semi-structured interview transcripts, and photographs. Results: Data from the majority of participants (32/37) and all facilities (12/12) in the parent studies were included. Eighty-three percent of facilities reported limited PPE. Five management strategies for coping with limited PPE supplies were observed, reported, or both: rationing PPE, self-purchasing PPE, asking patients to purchase PPE, substituting PPE, and working without PPE. Approaches to rationing PPE included using PPE only for symptomatic patients or not performing physical exams. Substitutions for PPE were based on supply availability. Conclusions: Strategies developed by clinicians to manage low PPE likely have negative consequences for both workers and patients; further research into the topic is important, as is better PPE provision in low-income countries.

Immigrant Patient Experiences with Food in the Hospital and Home Health Care Settings: a Qualitative Secondary Analysis Presented by

Squires, A. (2021). Nursing Research.

Impact of the work environment on patients’ safety as perceived by nurses in Poland—a cross-sectional study

Malinowska-Lipień, I., Micek, A., Gabryś, T., Kózka, M., Gajda, K., Gniadek, A., Brzostek, T., Fletcher, J., & Squires, A. (2021). International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(22). 10.3390/ijerph182212057
Abstract
Abstract
Numerous studies have found that organizational features connected with the work environment of nurses have a significant influence on patients’ safety. The aim of this research was to capture nurses’ opinions about patients’ safety and discern relationships with work environment characteristics. This cross-sectional study surveyed 1825 nurses. The research used questionnaire consisting of four parts: (1) covered The Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index (PES-NWI); (2) assessed the quality of nursing care and care safety; (3) contained information on the most recent duty served by the nurses and (4) captured social and demographic data of participants. The research identified strong association between patient safety assessment and work environment of nurses in the aspect of employment adequacy, cooperation between nurses and doctors, support for nurses from the managing staff, the possibility to participate in the management as well as professional promotion of nurses employed in the hospital (p < 0.001). Nurses rated patient safety higher when responsible for a smaller number of patients. Work environment factors such as proper staffing, good cooperation with doctors, support from the management, as well as professional independence are significantly related to nurses’ assessment of patients’ safety.

Inequities along the Depression Care Cascade in African American Women: An Integrative Review

Perez, N. B., Lanier, Y., & Squires, A. (2021). Issues in Mental Health Nursing, 42(8), 720-729. 10.1080/01612840.2020.1853289
Abstract
Abstract
Depression represents a growing health problem and African American women (AAW) disproportionally experience increased risk and broad disparities in health care. This integrative review examines what is known about the equity of depression care provided to AAW. PubMed, PsychINFO, and Web of Science were searched through April 2020 for studies in peer-reviewed journals from 2015 to 2020. Across the studies (n = 7), AAW received inequitable care across a depression care cascade including lower rates of screening, treatment initiation, and guideline-concordant care. Here we explore individual-, relational-, and structural-level factors related to these disparities and implications for research, practice, and education.