Jasmine Travers

Faculty

Jasmine Travers Headshot

Jasmine Travers

AGPCNP-BC CCRN PhD RN

Assistant Professor

1 212 992 7147

433 FIRST AVENUE
NEW YORK, NY 10010
United States

Accepting PhD students

Jasmine L. Travers is an assistant professor of nursing at NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing. Her career is dedicated to designing and conducting research to improve health outcomes and reduce health disparities in vulnerable older adult groups using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Her current work focuses on mitigating disparities in appropriate access and use of in-home and facility-based long-term care for older adults (i.e., home & community-based settings, nursing homes, and assisted living). Currently, Travers is the principal investigator of a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation four-year Career Development Award through the Harold Amos Medical Faculty Development Program which she is examining the association of neighborhood disadvantage with nursing home outcomes using large-scale nursing home data and a Paul B. Beeson Emerging Leader five-year K76 Award through the National Institute on Aging which in this mixed-method study she will develop a survey instrument aimed to identify unmet needs that are disproportionately driving avoidable nursing home placements. Most recently, Travers served on the National Academies of Science Engineering and Medicine Committee on the Quality of Care in Nursing Homes which on April 6, 2022, released the widely anticipated report titled, The National Imperative to Improve Nursing Home Quality.

Travers has published widely on the topics of aging, long-term care, health disparities and inequities, workforce diversity and workforce issues, vaccinations, and infections. She has presented her work at regional and national health services research, gerontological, nursing, and public health conferences.

Prior to joining the faculty at NYU, Travers completed a postdoctoral fellowship with the National Clinician Scholars Program at Yale University and a T32-funded postdoctoral fellowship at the New Courtland Center for Transitions and Health at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing.

Travers received her Ph.D. at Columbia University School of Nursing, MHS at Yale University, MSN in Adult-Gerontological Health at Stony Brook University, and BSN at Adelphi University.

PhD, Columbia University
MSN, Stony Brook University
MHS, Yale University
BSN, Adelphi University

Gerontology
Underserved populations

Eastern Nursing Research Society
American Geriatrics Society
Gerontological Society of America
Academy Health

Rising Star Research Award, Eastern Nursing Research Society (2022)
Health in Aging Foundation New Investigator Award, American Geriatrics Society (2022)
Committee Member, Committee on the Quality of Care in Nursing Homes, The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (2020)
Scholar, National Clinician Scholars Program, Yale University (2020)
Early Career Alumni Award: Emerging Nurse Leader, Columbia University (2020)
Jonas Policy Scholar, American Academy of Nursing, Jonas Center for Nursing and Veterans Healthcare (2019)
Douglas Holmes Emerging Scholar Paper Award, Gerontological Society of America (2018)
Dean’s Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellow, University of Pennsylvania Vice Provost Office (2018)
Associate Fellow, Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania (2018)
Awardee, 10 Under 10 Young Alumni Recognition, Adelphi University (2018)
Jonas Nurse Leader Scholar, Jonas Center for Nursing and Veterans Healthcare (2016)
Pre-Dissertation Student Research Award, The Behavioral & Social Sciences Section of The Gerontological Society of America (2016)

Factors associated with resident influenza vaccination in a national sample of nursing homes

Travers, J. L., Stone, P. W., Bjarnadottir, R. I., Pogorzelska-Maziarz, M., Castle, N. G., & Herzig, C. T. (2016). American Journal of Infection Control, 44(9), 1055-1057. 10.1016/j.ajic.2016.01.019
Abstract
Abstract
Influenza vaccination remains the cornerstone of influenza prevention, yet national goals for nursing home residents and staff vaccination have not been met. Few studies have examined associations between facility and resident characteristics; employee processes, such as staff vaccination policies; and resident influenza vaccination. In this national survey of nursing homes, employee processes were not associated with resident influenza vaccination; however, various facility and resident characteristics were.

A user-centered model for designing consumer mobile health (mHealth) applications (apps)

Schnall, R., Rojas, M., Bakken, S., Brown, W., Carballo-Dieguez, A., Carry, M., Gelaude, D., Mosley, J. P., & Travers, J. (2016). Journal of Biomedical Informatics, 60, 243-251. 10.1016/j.jbi.2016.02.002
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Mobile technologies are a useful platform for the delivery of health behavior interventions. Yet little work has been done to create a rigorous and standardized process for the design of mobile health (mHealth) apps. This project sought to explore the use of the Information Systems Research (ISR) framework as guide for the design of mHealth apps. Methods: Our work was guided by the ISR framework which is comprised of 3 cycles: Relevance, Rigor and Design. In the Relevance cycle, we conducted 5 focus groups with 33 targeted end-users. In the Rigor cycle, we performed a review to identify technology-based interventions for meeting the health prevention needs of our target population. In the Design Cycle, we employed usability evaluation methods to iteratively develop and refine mock-ups for a mHealth app. Results: Through an iterative process, we identified barriers and facilitators to the use of mHealth technology for HIV prevention for high-risk MSM, developed 'use cases' and identified relevant functional content and features for inclusion in a design document to guide future app development. Findings from our work support the use of the ISR framework as a guide for designing future mHealth apps. Discussion: Results from this work provide detailed descriptions of the user-centered design and system development and have heuristic value for those venturing into the area of technology-based intervention work. Findings from this study support the use of the ISR framework as a guide for future mHealth app development. Conclusion: Use of the ISR framework is a potentially useful approach for the design of a mobile app that incorporates end-users' design preferences.

Does State Legislation Improve Nursing Workforce Diversity?

Travers, J., Smaldone, A., & Gross Cohn, E. (2015). Policy, Politics, and Nursing Practice, 16(3), 109-116. 10.1177/1527154415599752
Abstract
Abstract
A health-care workforce representative of our nation’s diversity is a health and research priority. Although racial and ethnic minorities represent 37% of Americans, they comprise only 16% of the nursing workforce. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of state legislation on minority recruitment to nursing. Using data from the National Conference of State Legislatures, American Association of Colleges of Nursing, and U.S. census, we compared minority enrollment in baccalaureate nursing programs of states (Texas, Virginia, Michigan, California, Florida, Connecticut, and Arkansas) before and 3 years after enacting legislation with geographically adjacent states without legislation. Data were analyzed using descriptive and chi-square statistics. Following legislation, Arkansas (13.8%–24.5%), California (3.3%–5.4%), and Michigan (8.0%–10.0%) significantly increased enrollment of Blacks, and Florida (11.8%–15.4%) and Texas (11.2%–13.9%) significantly increased enrollment of Hispanic baccalaureate nursing students. States that tied legislation to funding, encouragement, and reimbursement had larger enrollment gains and greater minority representation.

Infection prevention and control in nursing homes: A qualitative study of decision-making regarding isolation-based practices

Cohen, C. C., Pogorzelska-Maziarz, M., Herzig, C. T., Carter, E. J., Bjarnadottir, R., Semeraro, P., Travers, J. L., & Stone, P. W. (2015). BMJ Quality and Safety, 24(10), 630-636. 10.1136/bmjqs-2015-003952
Abstract
Abstract
Background Isolation-based practices in nursing homes (NHs) differ from those in acute care. NHs must promote quality of life while preventing infection transmission. Practices used in NHs to reconcile these goals of care have not been characterised. Purpose To explore decision-making in isolation-based infection prevention and control practices in NHs. Methods A qualitative study was conducted with staff (eg, staff nurses, infection prevention directors and directors of nursing) employed in purposefully sampled US NHs. Semistructured, role-specific interview guides were developed and interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using directed content analysis. The research team discussed emerging themes in weekly meetings to confirm consensus. Results We inferred from 73 interviews in 10 NHs that there was variation between NHs in practices regarding who was isolated, when isolation-based practices took place, how they were implemented, and how they were tailored for each resident. Interviewees' decision-making depended on staff perceptions of acceptable transmission risk and resident quality of life. NH resources also influenced decision-making, including availability of private rooms, extent to which staff can devote time to isolation-based practices and communication tools. A lack of understanding of key infection prevention and control concepts was also revealed. Conclusions and implications Current clinical guidelines are not specific enough to ensure consistent practice that meets care goals and resource constraints in NHs. However, new epidemiological research regarding effectiveness of varying isolation practices in this setting is needed to inform clinical practice. Further, additional infection prevention and control education for NH staff may be required.

mHealth Technology as a Persuasive Tool for Treatment, Care and Management of Persons Living with HIV

Schnall, R., Bakken, S., Rojas, M., Travers, J., & Carballo-Dieguez, A. (2015). AIDS and Behavior, 19, 81-89. 10.1007/s10461-014-0984-8
Abstract
Abstract
Mobile health (mHealth) technology can be a valuable tool in the management of chronic illnesses, including HIV. Qualitative research methods were used to identify the desired content and features of a mobile app for meeting and improving the healthcare needs of persons living with HIV (PLWH). We conducted six focus group sessions with 50 English-or Spanish-speaking PLWH in New York City. To inform data analysis and to illustrate how mHealth technology can be used as a persuasive strategy for improving the health of PLWH, we integrated Fogg’s functional role triad for computing technology model with the self-determination theory to illustrate how mHealth technology can be used as a persuasive strategy for improving the health of PLWH. Participants suggested several tools for meeting their healthcare needs, including: reminders/alerts, lab results tracking, and notes on health status. mHealth technology can function as a social actor by providing chat boxes/forums, testimonials of lived experiences, and personal outreach. Examples of media that can be used as a persuasive technology include games/virtual rewards, coding of health tasks, and simulations on how to connect with PLWH. Findings from these focus groups can be used to design a mobile app for PLWH that is targeted to meet their healthcare needs.

Perceived barriers to infection prevention and control for nursing home certified nursing assistants: A qualitative study

Travers, J., Herzig, C. T., Pogorzelska-Maziarz, M., Carter, E., Cohen, C. C., Semeraro, P. K., Bjarnadottir, R. I., & Stone, P. W. (2015). Geriatric Nursing, 36(5), 355-360. 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2015.05.001
Abstract
Abstract
Healthcare-associated infections, while preventable, result in increased morbidity and mortality in nursing home (NH) residents. Frontline personnel, such as certified nursing assistants (CNAs), are crucial to successful implementation of infection prevention and control (IPC) practices. The purpose of this study was to explore barriers to implementing and maintaining IPC practices for NH CNAs as well as to describe strategies used to overcome these barriers. We conducted a multi-site qualitative study of NH personnel important to infection control. Audio-recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and transcripts were analyzed using conventional content analysis. Five key themes emerged as perceived barriers to effective IPC for CNAs: 1) language/culture; 2) knowledge/training; 3) per-diem/part-time staff; 4) workload; and 5) accountability. Strategies used to overcome these barriers included: translating in-services, hands on training, on-the-spot training for per-diem/part-time staff, increased staffing ratios, and inclusion/empowerment of CNAs. Understanding IPC barriers and strategies to overcome these barriers may better enable NHs to achieve infection reduction goals.

"Striving for excellence": Minimum data set coordinators' perceptions of their role in the nursing home

Bjarnadottir, R. I., Semeraro, P. K., Herzig, C. T., Pogorzelska-Maziarz, M., Carter, E., Cohen, C. C., Travers, J., & Stone, P. W. (2015). Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 41(9), 32-41. 10.3928/00989134-20150728-09
Abstract
Abstract
The purpose of the current study was to explore how Minimum Data Set (MDS) coordinators perceive their role and the assessment process. Eleven MDS coordinators from 10 geographically dispersed nursing homes (NHs) were interviewed between May and September 2013. Four broad themes emerged from content analysis: (a) information gathering, (b) interdisciplinary coordination, (c) role challenges, and (d) resources. The fi rst two themes referred to key components and competencies in the MDS coordinators' role, the third theme dealt with certain challenges inherent in the role, and the fourth theme highlighted resources that helped address these challenges. The current study provides insight into how MDS coordinators perceive their role, as well as some of the challenges they face to successfully enact that role. The current fi ndings can help inform NH management staff, such as directors of nursing and NH administrators, and policy makers, on how best to support MDS coordinators' work to enable effi cient and accurate resident assessment processes.

Time and costs of preparing and submitting an NIH grant application at a school of nursing

Kulage, K. M., Schnall, R., Hickey, K. T., Travers, J., Zezulinski, K., Torres, F., Burgess, J., & Larson, E. L. (2015). Nursing Outlook, 63(6), 639-649. 10.1016/j.outlook.2015.09.003
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Schools of nursing spend considerable time and finances pursuing federal research funding, yet the costs of such efforts are unknown. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the time and costs to a school of nursing to prepare a National Institutes of Health grant application. Method: We prospectively recorded time and calculated costs in grant preparation undertaken by principal investigators and research administrators in one school of nursing. Results: Principal investigators' time ranged from 69.8 to 162.3 hr, research administrators' time ranged from 33.9 to 56.4 hr, and costs ranged from $4,784 to $13,512 per grant. With funding rates of 5% to 15%, costs for one funded R01 would be $72,460 to $270,240. Discussion: Grant writing activities represent a major time commitment to faculty and staff and costs to the school. To maximize potential for success, schools of nursing must provide costly resources to support its grant writing enterprise. Conclusions: Less costly and more efficient models of attaining research funding are needed for the sustainability of the nursing profession.

Understanding HIV Testing Behaviors of Minority Adolescents: A Health Behavior Model Analysis

Schnall, R., Rojas, M., & Travers, J. (2015). Journal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care, 26(3), 246-258. 10.1016/j.jana.2014.08.005
Abstract
Abstract
Adolescents and young adults are the fastest-growing age group of people living with HIV infection in the United States. Yet many adolescents and young adults with high-risk behaviors for HIV are unaware of their HIV status and have never had an HIV test. The purpose of our work was to understand minority adolescents' beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors related to HIV testing. We conducted focus group sessions with 41 minority adolescents to assess their perceptions about HIV testing. We triangulated the findings from our focus group data with data from a 125-question survey. Analysis of focus group data demonstrated that Perceived Susceptibility, Perceived Severity, Perceived Benefits, Perceived Barriers, and Cues to Action influenced adolescents' decisions to get tested for HIV. Findings support the need to design interventions that address adolescents' perceived barriers to HIV testing and increase access to and knowledge about HIV testing.

Understanding infection prevention and control in nursing homes: A qualitative study

Stone, P. W., Herzig, C. T., Pogorzelska-Maziarz, M., Carter, E., Bjarnadottir, R. I., Semeraro, P. K., Cohen, C. C., Travers, J., & Schweon, S. (2015). Geriatric Nursing, 36(4), 267-272. 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2015.02.023
Abstract
Abstract
Infections have been identified as a priority issue in nursing homes (NHs). We conducted a qualitative study purposively sampling 10 NHs across the country where 6-8 employees were recruited (N = 73). Semi-structured, open-ended guides were used to conduct in-depth interviews. Data were audiotaped, transcribed and a content analysis was performed. Five themes emerged: 'Residents' Needs', 'Roles and Training' 'Using Infection Data,' 'External Resources' and 'Focus on Hand Hygiene.' Infection prevention was a priority in the NHs visited. While all sites had hand hygiene programs, other recommended areas were not a focus and many sites were not aware of available resources. Developing ways to ensure effective, efficient and standardized infection prevention and control in NHs continues to be a national priority.