Dr. A. Manjula, M.Sc. (N), PhD, RN, RM, is an academic and healthcare professional over 18 years of experience in nursing education and practice. The academic journey began with a B.Sc. (Nursing) from Sri Ramachandra University, where she graduated in 2004. She continued her education at the same institution, earning a M.Sc. (Nursing) with a specialization in Cardiothoracic Nursing in 2008. She further advanced her expertise by obtaining a PhD in Nursing from the Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research in 2021.Her career commenced as a Staff Nurse in the Neuro Surgery Intensive Care Unit at Sri Ramachandra Hospital, Porur, Chennai, where she worked from 2004 to 2006. She then transitioned into academia as a Lecturer at Narayana Nursing College in Nellore, India, from 2008 to 2009. Following this, she joined the Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Nursing, where she has served in various capacities from Lecturer (2009-2022) to her current role as Associate Professor.
A prolific contributor to her field has presented 26 papers and published 18 research articles. She received three best research paper awards for her study. In 2019, she was honored with a Ten Years Gold Coin for her continuous service at Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research. Earlier in her career, she won the first place in the Brain Storm Competition during the National Nutrition Week celebration in 2012 and was the Best Outgoing Student with a gold medal in M.Sc. Nursing in 2008.
Dr. Manjula has made significant contributions to the field of nursing through various initiatives. She has played a pivotal role in curriculum development for B.Sc. Nursing, M.Sc. Nursing (Nurse Practitioner in Critical Care), and PhD programs. Notably, she has coordinated inspections and been involved in outcome-based education syllabus framing. She has been instrumental in the initiation and operation of an independent Nurse-led foot care clinic within the Department of Medical Surgical Nursing. Her organizational skills are reflected in her involvement in national and international conferences, webinars, and workshops, continuing nursing education (CNE) programs, faculty development programs, seminars, and the observation of health days. She has mentored and guided both undergraduate and postgraduate students in projects, dissertation, Innovus presentation, and National science week and observation days.
Diabetic foot ulcers are a common and severe complication of diabetes, often leading to reduced mobility and quality of life. Effective management strategies are crucial for improving patient outcomes. The Model ES-100V3 Bidop is utilized for venous Doppler measurements. This bi-directional handheld Doppler with an LCD display measures arterial and venous blood flow velocities using ultrasound. The PUSH Tool Version 3.0, developed by the National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel, is employed to categorize ulcers based on surface area, exudate, and type of wound tissue. HRQOL is measured using the Diabetic Foot Ulcer Scale (DFS), a standardized tool developed by Johnson & Johnson. The DFS includes 58 items across 11 dimensions, such as leisure, physical health, daily activities, emotions, and financial impact. Higher scores indicate better quality of life. Additionally, the Diabetic Foot Risk Assessment Form, developed by the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario, categorizes diabetic foot ulcer risk and assesses self-care knowledge. The intervention comprises nonweight-bearing exercises aimed at increasing venous return, reducing plantar pressure, and enhancing joint mobility. During data collection, patients are made comfortable in the procedure room. The investigator demonstrates two types of exercises: active-assistive range of motion and active range of motion exercises. These exercises are designed to be performed without putting weight on the feet, thus protecting the ulcers while promoting circulation and joint flexibility. By integrating these methodologies, the study seeks to provide a comprehensive evaluation of how nonweight-bearing exercises can improve ulcer healing and enhance the overall quality of life for patients with diabetic foot ulcers.
This study assessed diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), peripheral artery disease (PAD), and plantar pressure among 50 diabetic patients attending an independent nurse-led foot clinic. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy was evaluated using a Biothesiometer, measuring the vibration perception threshold (VPT) at six sites: the first, third, and fifth metatarsal heads, the middle foot, heel, and great toe. Peripheral artery disease was assessed by calculating the ankle-brachial index using a Doppler device. Additionally, plantar pressure measurements were taken for both the right and left lower limbs to analyze pressure distribution and weight-bearing patterns. This comprehensive assessment aimed to identify the interrelationships between DPN, PAD, and plantar pressure in diabetic patients.
Assessment of Diabetic peripheral Neuropathy, Peripheral arterial disease and plantar pressure among patients with diabetes mellitus’ Mixed method research Theme: Explore, Expedite, Envisage at 27thAnnual National conference, National Research Society of India, India-22nd & 23rd NOV 2023.
‘It’s time for real change-Nurse Practitioners in India’ National workshop- Comprehensive critical care skills among Nurse Practitioners at MGM New Bombay college of Nursing, Mumbai8th& 9th NOV 2023.
Best outgoing and recipient of gold medal in M.Sc. (Nursing)-2008 at SRIHER.
Trained Nurses Association of India, which supports and promotes the interests of nursing professionals nationwide
An organization that focuses on the advancement of cardiac care and nursing practices
Medical Surgical Nursing Society of India, which aims to enhance the standards and practices of medical-surgical nursing.