Inger Schou-Bredal

• Skogstad, Laila; Schou-Bredal, Inger; Ekeberg, Øivind; Grimholt, Tine Kristin; Bonsaksen, Tore & Heir, Trond (2026). Lifetime exposure to bullying and its association with health status and quality of life in the general Norwegian population: a cross-sectional study. Frontiers in Public Health. 14. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2026.1811310. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Bullying may have a considerable negative impact on health and well-being. Nevertheless, there is a lack of studies investigating exposure to bullying in the general population. Thus, we aimed to assess the prevalence of lifetime exposure to bullying in the adult Norwegian population and to compare health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and physical and psychological health problems between bullied and non-bullied.Methods: We measured lifetime exposure to bullying in the general Norwegian population using a self-report questionnaire. The study was part of a cross-sectional national health survey (n = 1733) conducted in 2014–2015, to which a probability sample of people in the general population was recruited. Reports on socio-demographic data, HRQoL and a wide range of mental and somatic health problems provided the basis for a comparison of those who were bullied with those who were not. Chi square tests and logistic regression analyses were used to assess associations with lifetime exposure to bullying.Results: Across age groups, 28.2% reported exposure to bullying during their lifespan. Adjusted for other variables, the odds of bullying were higher in younger age groups, for those who lived as singles, and for those who were not working or in education. Respondents who had been bullied reported more mental problems such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, eating disorder, psychosis, self-harm, and suicide attempts, and they had lower HRQoL. They also reported more chronic pain, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes mellitus, obesity, and musculoskeletal-, respiratory- and gastrointestinal diseases than people who had not been exposed to bullying.Conclusion: Bullying is common in the general Norwegian population, where more than a quarter of respondents had experienced exposure to bullying during their lifespan. Substantial more mental and somatic health problems among those exposed to bullying require a broad effort against bullying in central arenas in society.

• Grimholt, Tine Kristin; Gjesdal, Ola; Bonsaksen, Tore; Heir, Trond; Ekeberg, Øivind & Schou-Bredal, Inger [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2025). Posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms in adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) during the COVID-19 pandemic in Norway. International Journal of Cardiology Congenital Heart Disease. 20. doi: 10.1016/j.ijcchd.2025.100585. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The aims were to study symptom defined post-traumatic stress disorder, self-assessed anxiety and depression, and concerns about COVID19 in Norwegian adults with congenital heart disease compared to the general population during the COVID-19 pandemic. Further, the aim was to compare simple vs. complex CHD on these measures.

• Grimholt, Tine Kristin; Bonsaksen, Tore; Heir, Trond; Schou-Bredal, Inger; Skogstad, Laila & Ekeberg, Øivind (2024). Prevalence of suicide attempt and associations with deliberate self-harm, mental health problems, drug misuse and traumatic experiences - a cross sectional survey of the Norwegian population. BMC Psychiatry. 24(1). doi: 10.1186/s12888-024-05610-9. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Monitoring self-reported suicide attempts (SA) with nationally representative surveys is important to initiate suicide prevention strategies. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of SA and compare deliberate self-harm, (DSH), mental health, drug misuse and traumas between SA and non-suicide attempters (NSA). Methods: In this cross-sectional survey of a representative sample (N=1757) of the Norwegian population, we compared people with self-reported SA (n=54) to NSA (n=1703) regarding sociodemographic data, mental health problems, drug misuse and exposure to trauma. Results: The prevalence of SA was 3.1 %. There was a higher proportion of welfare recipients and more deliberate selfharm, mental health problems, drug misuse and traumas in the SA group compared to NSA. Conclusion: This national study confrms the association between suicide attempt and deliberate self-harm, mental health problems, drug misuse and traumas.

• Schou-Bredal, Inger; Moberg, Ingvild Ona; Schou, Martin Simen; Sætnan, Elisabeth; Fuglesteg, Inger Karin & Tønseth, Kim Alexander [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2024). Preoperative Expectations of Women Undergoing Breast Reconstruction Surgery. Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Global open. 12(6). doi: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000005928. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: The study investigated the expectations of patients undergoing immediate breast reconstruction after mastectomy, considering factors such as the cause for mastectomy (cancer versus prophylactic due BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations), age, marital status, and education. Methods: The study had a cross-sectional design. Eligible patients at Oslo University Hospital received a link to the BREAST-Q Expectations questionnaire, which they filled out before surgery from 2019 to 2022. Results: One hundred forty-six patients completed the questionnaire (79.8% response rate). The mean age was 46.6 years, and the majority (95.1%) were undergoing reconstruction with implants. Most patients (86.9%) wanted to be involved in the decision-making. The highest expectation was for breast appearance and the lowest for sensation after surgery. Patients not diagnosed with cancer (n = 27) before surgery expected significantly more pain after surgery compared with patients diagnosed with cancer (P = 0.016). Patients 40 years or younger had higher expectation of pain after surgery than patients 41 years or older, 73.2 versus 54.2, P < 0.001, respectively. After 10 years, 26.7% of the patients expected that further reconstruction procedures might be necessary. Conclusions: Our study’s results regarding patient’s expectations with breast reconstruction, as assessed using the BREAST-Q Expectations module, align with previous research in terms of overall trends. However, our study provides a more nuanced understanding by exploring variations within different patient subgroups. These differences emphasize the need for personalized preoperative counseling and support to align patient’s expectations with realistic outcomes.

• Lerdal, Anners; Gay, Caryl; Bonsaksen, Tore; Ekeberg, Øivind; Grimholt, Tine Kristin & Heir, Trond [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2023). Validation of a short version of the Lee fatigue scale in adults living in Norway: a cross-sectional population survey. BMC Public Health. 23(1). doi: 10.1186/s12889-023-17036-1. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background Due to the nature of fatigue, a brief reliable measure of fatigue severity is needed. Thus, the aim of our study was to evaluate a short version of the Lee Fatigue Scale (LFS) in the Norwegian general population. Methods This cross-sectional survey consists of a representative sample from the Norwegian population drawn by The National Population Register in Norway. The study is part of a larger study (NORPOP) aimed at collecting normative data from several questionnaires focused on health in adults living in Norway. Registered citizens between 18 and 94 years of age were randomly selected stratified by age, sex and geographic region. Of the 4971 respondents eligible for the study, 1792 (36%) responded to the survey. In addition to age and sex, we collected responses on a 5-item version of the LFS measuring current fatige severity. The psychometric properties focusing on internal structure and precision of the LFS items were analyzed by a Rasch rating scale model. Results Complete LFS scores for analyses were available for 1767 adults. Women had higher LFS-scores than men, and adults < 55 years old had higher scores than older respondents. Our analysis of the LFS showed that the average category on each item advanced monotonically. Two of the five items demonstrated misfit, while the three other items demonstrated goodness-of-fit to the model and uni-dimensionality. Items #1 and #4 (tired and fatigue respectively) showed differential item functioning (DIF) by sex, but no items showed DIFs in relation to age. The separation index of the LFS 3-item scale showed that the sample could be separated into three different groups according to the respondents’ fatigue levels. The LFS-3 raw scores correlated strongly with the Rasch measure from the three items. The core dimensions in these individual items were very similarly expressed in the Norwegian language version and this may be a threat to the cultural-related or language validity of a short version of the LFS using these particular items. Conclusions The study provides validation of a short LFS 3-item version for estimating fatigue in the general population.

• Kjernsholen, Jeanette; Schou-Bredal, Inger; Kåresen, Rolf; Søberg, Helene L. & Sagen, Aase (2023). A Prospective Intervention Study With 6 Months Follow-up of the Effect of Reablement in Home Dwelling Elderly: Patient-reported and Observed Outcomes. Archives of Rehabilitation Research and Clinical Translation. doi: 10.1016/j.arrct.2023.100311. Full text in Research Archive
• Bredal, Inger Schou; Sørensen, Elin; Heitmann, Kari; Jensen, Vibeke Schou & Drageset, Sigrunn (2022). Development of the Breast Cancer Survivors Symptom Checklist for use in follow-up multidisciplinary appointments. Patient Related Outcome Measures. 13, p. 199–208. doi: 10.2147/PROM.S364625. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Breast cancer survivors are primarily followed up to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and complications and to detect recurrences. Many breast cancer survivors may experience prolonged adverse physical and psychological effects, which should also be addressed at follow-ups. The objective of this study was to develop a brief symptom assessment tool for breast cancer survivors to be used as a guideline for the survivors and all health care professionals conducting the routine follow-up. The second objective was to describe the women’s individual experiences with follow-ups. Methods: A literature review, a focus group of 6 healthcare professionals using a nominal group technique process, and the experience and feedback via qualitative interviews with 16 breast cancer survivors was used to develop the Breast Cancer Survivors Symptom Assessment Checklist (BCS-SC). Results: The BCS-SC consists of a set of 13 symptoms/burdens and one question. On a scale from 0 (no symptom) to 10 (worst imaginable), survivors indicated the extent to which they experience each symptom. All survivors perceived the annual follow-ups as important, but none prepared for them. Eight of the 16 survivors reported that they had 2 or more of the symptoms/burdens listed in the BCS-SC. However, only one of the survivors had mentioned her symptom to the doctor at follow-up. Conclusion: The BCS-SC is a comprehensive assessment tool for symptoms/burdens that are common among breast cancer survivors and can aid efforts to optimize their follow-up. Furthermore, the BCS-SC allows for a more patient-initiated and focused consultation, leading to more patient-centered quality care.

• Bredal, Inger Schou; Bonsaksen, Tore; Ekeberg, Øivind; Skogstad, Laila; Grimholt, Tine Kristin & Heir, Trond (2022). A comparison between healthcare workers and non-healthcare workers’ anxiety, depression and PTSD during the initial COVID -19 lockdown. Public Health in Practice. 3. doi: 10.1016/j.puhip.2022.100267. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objective: Several studies have found that Healthcare workers are vulnerable to mental health problems during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, few studies have made comparisons of healthcare workers (HCWs) and nonHCWs. The current study aimed to compare mental health problems among HCWs with non-HCWs during the initial lockdown of COVID 19.<p> <p>Study design: A population-based cross-sectional survey. Methods: The survey was conducted by means of an open web link between April and May 2020. Data were collected by self-report. The PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) was used to assess posttraumatic stress.<p> <p>Results: A total of 4527 citizens answered the questionnaire and 32.1% were HCWs. The majority were female, under 60 years of age, and lived in urban areas. Among the HCWs, the majority were registered nurses working in hospitals. The prevalence were 12.8% vs 19.1% for anxiety, 8.5% vs 14.5% for depression and 13.6% vs 20.9% for PTSD among HCWs and non-HCWs respectively. The highest prevalence’s for anxiety and PTSD among HCWs were found for those under 40 years of age and having low education level (<12 years).<p> <p>Conclusion: Mental health problems was significantly lower among HCWs compared to non-HCWs. However, the COVID-19 poses a challenge for HCWs, especially young HCWs and those with low level of education. Providing support, appropriate education, training, and authoritative information to the different members of the HCWs could be effective ways to minimize the psychological effect.

• Bonsaksen, Tore; Skogstad, Laila; Heir, Trond; Ekeberg, Øivind; Bredal, Inger Schou & Grimholt, Tine Kristin (2021). Suicide Thoughts and Attempts in the Norwegian General Population during the Early Stage of the COVID-19 Outbreak. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (IJERPH). ISSN 1661-7827. 18(8), p. 1–9. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18084102. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The aim of the study was to examine the prevalence of suicide thoughts and attempts during the early stage of the COVID-19 outbreak and examine pandemic-related factors associated with suicide thoughts in the general Norwegian population. A sample of 4527 adults living in Norway were recruited via social media. Data related to suicide thoughts and attempts, alcohol use, pandemic-related concerns, and sociodemographic variables were collected. Associations with suicide thoughts were analyzed with logistic regression analysis. In the sample, 3.6% reported suicide thoughts during the last month, while 0.2% had attempted suicide during the same period. Previous suicide attempts (OR: 11.93, p < 0.001), lower age (OR: 0.69, p < 0.001), daily alcohol use (OR: 3.31, p < 0.001), being in the risk group for COVID-19 complications (OR: 2.15, p < 0.001), and having economic concerns related to the pandemic (OR: 2.28, p < 0.001) were associated with having current suicide thoughts. In addition to known risk factors, the study suggests that aspects specific to COVID-19 may be important for suicidal behaviors during the pandemic.

• Schou-Bredal, Inger; Grimholt, Tine; Bonsaksen, Tore; Skogstad, Laila; Heir, Trond & Ekeberg, Øivind (2021). Optimists' and pessimists' self-reported mental and global health during the COVID-19 pandemic in Norway. Health Psychology Report. ISSN 2353-4184. 9(2), p. 1–9. doi: 10.5114/hpr.2021.102394. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  background The COVID-19 pandemic represents a global health crisis. How well people cope with this situation depends on many factors, including one’s personality, such as dispositional optimism. The aim of the study was to investigate: 1) optimists’ and pessimists’ concerns during lockdown, and mental and global health; 2) whether pessimists without known risk factors more often than optimists report being at risk for COVID-19. participants and procedure A snowball sampling strategy was used; 4,527 people, 18 years or older, participated in a survey on a variety of mental health conditions and COVID-19 worries. In addition, they completed the Life Orientation Test-Revised (LOT-R). Optimism was defined by LOT-R f ≥ 17. results Fewer optimists than pessimists reported that they were worried about COVID-19, respectively 51.2% vs. 66.8%, p < .001. Among those reporting none of the known somatic risk factors, more pessimists than optimists (14.3% vs. 9.1%, p < .001) considered themselves at risk of a fatal outcome from COVID-19. Significantly fewer optimists reported that they had anxiety (5.1%), depression (3.4%), suicidal ideation (0.7%) and insomnia (19.3%) during the COVID-19 outbreak than pessimists (24.7% anxiety, 18.4% depression, 5.4% suicidal ideation, 39.8% insomnia, all p < .001). Optimists reported better global health than pessimists (87.2 vs. 84.6, p < .001). conclusions Optimists were generally less worried about the COVID-19 pandemic than pessimists and reported better mental and global health during lockdown. Pessimists more often than optimists reported being at risk for COVID-19 without reporting known risk factors. key words anxiety; COVID-19; depression; dispositional optimism; insomnia

• Bredal, Inger Schou; Skogstad, Laila; Grimholt, Tine K.; Bonsaksen, Tore; Ekeberg, Øivind & Heir, Trond (2021). Concerns in the norwegian population during the initial lockdown due to the covid-19 pandemic. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (IJERPH). ISSN 1661-7827. 18(11). doi: 10.3390/ijerph18116119. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Abstract: Although concern affects one’s welfare or happiness, few studies to date have focused on peoples’ concerns during the initial COVID-19 lockdown. The aim of the study was to explore concerns in the Norwegian populations according to gender and age, and identify which concerns were most prominent during the lockdown. A population-based cross-sectional online survey using snowball-sampling strategies was conducted, to which 4527 adults (≥18 years) responded. Questions related to concerns had response alternatives yes or no. In addition, they were asked which concern was most prominent. Nearly all the 4527 respondents (92%) reported that they were concerned: 60.9% were generally concerned about the pandemic, 83.9% were concerned about family and friends, 21.8% had financial concerns, and 25.3% expected financial loss. More women were concerned about family and friends than males, (85.2% vs. 76.2%, p < 0.001), whereas more men expected financial loss (30.4% vs. 24.4%y, p = 0.001). Younger adults (<50 years) had more financial concerns than older adults (25.9% vs. 10.5%, p < 0.001). Being concerned about family and friends was the most prominent concern and was associated with; lower age (OR 0.79), female gender (OR 1.59), and being next of kin (2.42). The most prominent concern for adults 70 years or older was being infected by COVID-19. In conclusion, women and younger individuals were most concerned. While adults under 70 years of age were most concerned about family and friends and adults 70 years or older were most concerned about being infected by COVID-19.

• Høghaug, Grete; Skår, Randi; Tran, Thien Ngoc & Bredal, Inger Schou (2021). Examining the effect of an education intervention on nurses’ medicines management knowledge. Nursing management. ISSN 1354-5760. 28(5), p. 33–40. doi: 10.7748/nm.2021.e2005. Full text in Research Archive
• Schou-Bredal, Inger; Grimholt, Tine K.; Bonsaksen, Tore; Skogstad, Laila; Heir, Trond & Ekeberg, Øivind (2021). Psychological responses and associated factors during the initial lockdown due to the corona disease epidemic (COVID-19) among Norwegian citizens. Journal of Mental Health. ISSN 0963-8237. p. 1–9. doi: 10.1080/09638237.2021.1952949. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  BACKGROUND Ongoing COVID-19 studies pay little attention to the risk or protective factors related to psychological stress. AIMS This study aims to estimate the prevalence of anxiety, depression and insomnia during the initial phase of the COVID-19 outbreak, and explore factors that might be associated with these outcomes. METHODS A population-based cross-sectional survey was conducted using snowball-sampling strategy. Participants from 18 years or older filled out an anonymous online questionnaire. RESULTS A total of 4527 citizens filled out the questionnaire. Prevalence rates were; insomnia 31.8%, anxiety 17.1% and depression 12.5%. Risk factors associated with anxiety, depression and insomnia were being single (OR = 0.75, OR = 0.57, OR = 0.59), unemployed (OR = 0.47, OR = 0.53, OR = 0.73), financial concerns (OR = 1.66, OR = 2.09, OR = 1.80) at risk for complication from COVID-19 (OR = 1.63, OR = 1.68, OR = 1.60), and being generally worried due to the COVID-19 (OR 0 3.06, OR = 1.41, OR = 1.74). CONCLUSION Being single, unemployed, at risk of health complications, or having concerns because of financial or other consequences of the pandemic are associated with mental health adversities such as anxiety, depression and insomnia during a pandemic lockdown.

• Høghaug, Grete; Skår, Randi; Tran, Thien Ngoc; Diep, Lien My & Bredal, Inger Schou (2021). Three-month follow-up effects of a medication management program on nurses’ knowledge. Nurse Education in Practice. ISSN 1471-5953. 51:102979, p. 1–7. doi: 10.1016/j.nepr.2021.102979. Full text in Research Archive
• Bonsaksen, Tore; Ekeberg, Øivind; Bredal, Inger Schou; Skogstad, Laila; Heir, Trond & Grimholt, Tine Kristin (2021). Use of alcohol and addictive drugs during the COVID-19 outbreak in Norway: associations with mental health and pandemic-related problems. Frontiers in Public Health. 9:667729(429), p. 1–9. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.667729. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: The outbreak of COVID-19 has had a major impact on people's daily life. This study aimed to examine use of alcohol and addictive drugs during the COVID-19 outbreak in Norway and examine their association with mental health problems and problems related to the pandemic. Methods: A sample of 4,527 persons responded to the survey. Use of alcohol and addictive drugs were cross-tabulated with sociodemographic variables, mental health problems, and problems related to COVID-19. Logistic regression analyses were used to examine the strength of the associations. Results: Daily use of alcohol was associated with depression and expecting financial loss in relation to the COVID-19 outbreak. Use of cannabis was associated with expecting financial loss in relation to COVID-19. Use of sedatives was associated with anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Use of painkillers was associated with insomnia and self-reported risk of complications if contracting the coronavirus. Conclusion: The occurrence of mental health problems is more important for an understanding of the use of alcohol and addictive drugs during the COVID-19 outbreak in Norway, compared to specific pandemic-related worries.

• Skogstad, Laila; Bredal, Inger Schou; Bonsaksen, Tore; Heir, Trond; Ekeberg, Øivind & Grimholt, Tine Kristin (2021). Concerns related to the COVID-19 in adult Norwegians during the first outbreak in 2020: A qualitative approach. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (IJERPH). ISSN 1661-7827. 18(8). doi: 10.3390/ijerph18084312. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Concerns related to the first outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Norwegian population are studied in a cross-sectional web-survey conducted between 8 April and 20 May 2020. The qualitative thematic analysis of the open-ended question “Do you have other concerns related to the pandemic?”, followed a six-step process. Concerns from 1491 informants were analyzed, 34% of women and 30% of men (p = 0.05) provided concerns. Respondents with higher educational level reported concerns more often (86% vs. 83%, p = 0.022). The qualitative analysis revealed five themes—society, health, social activities, personal economy and duration—and 13 sub-themes, mostly related to the themes “society” and “health” (724 and 704, respectively). Empathy for others was prominent, for society (nationally and globally), but also concerns related to infecting others and family members at risk for developing serious illness if infected. The responses to the open-ended question yielded additional information, beyond the information obtained from questions with pre-categorized response options, especially related to concerns about society and health. Themes arising from the qualitative analysis shed light on what are important concerns for people during the pandemic and this may serve as targeted measures for the authorities.

• Valsø, Åse; Rustøen, Tone; Småstuen, Milada Cvancarova; Puntillo, Kathleen; Skogstad, Laila & Bredal, Inger Schou [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2021). Occurrence and characteristics of pain after ICU discharge: A longitudinal study. Nursing in Critical Care. ISSN 1362-1017. p. 1–10. doi: 10.1111/nicc.12701. Full text in Research Archive
• Bonsaksen, Tore; Heir, Trond; Skogstad, Laila; Grimholt, Tine K.; Ekeberg, Øivind & Lerdal, Anners [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2020). Daily use of alcohol in the Norwegian general population: Prevalence and associated factors. Drugs and alcohol today. ISSN 1745-9265. doi: 10.1108/DAT-02-2020-0010. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Purpose: Harmful use of alcohol is a major public health problem. While harm is often researched in the context of heavy drinking episodes, high-frequency drinking, even when drinking moderate quantities, constitutes a health risk in a longer perspective. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of daily use of alcohol in the Norwegian general population, and to assess sociodemographic, mental health-related and personal resource variables associated with daily use of alcohol. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey concerned with health, illness and serious life events was distributed to 5,500 persons in the general population in Norway (response rate 36 %). Sociodemographic variables, personal resource variables (general self-efficacy, optimism, and extraversion) and psychological distress (current anxiety and/or depression) were assessed with regards to their associations with daily drinking in unadjusted and adjusted regression models. Findings: Daily use of alcohol was reported by 39 persons (2.2 %) in the sample (3.1 % of men and 1.4 % of women). While general self-efficacy, optimism and extraversion were unrelated to daily drinking, the adjusted model revealed that male sex (OR: 2.18, p < 0.05), being unemployed/not in education (OR: 3.10, p < 0.05) and reporting current anxiety and/or depression (OR: 3.12, p < 0.01) were associated with daily use of alcohol. Value: The study has contributed to the knowledge about daily drinkers in a representative sample of the Norwegian population. A proportion of 2.2 % was found to drink alcohol on a daily basis. Compared to their counterparts, the odds of daily drinking were higher for men, unemployed persons and persons reporting current psychological distress. Public health initiatives aiming at reducing harmful use of alcohol may pay particular attention to these subsets of the population.

• Bredal, Inger Schou; Ekeberg, Øivind & Kåresen, Rolf (2020). Variability and stability of coping styles among breast cancer survivors: A prospective study. Psycho-Oncology. ISSN 1057-9249. doi: 10.1002/pon.5587. Full text in Research Archive
• Bonsaksen, Tore; Skogstad, Laila; Grimholt, Tine Kristin; Heir, Trond; Ekeberg, Øivind & Lerdal, Anners [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2020). Substance use in the Norwegian general population: Prevalence and associations with disease. Journal of Substance Use. ISSN 1465-9891. 26(2). doi: 10.1080/14659891.2020.1784303. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objective: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of substance use in the Norwegian general population and examine whether the risk of various psychiatric or somatic diseases varied according to alcohol- and substance use. Methods: A survey was distributed to 5500 persons in Norway, and a sample of 1792 persons responded (36% response rate). Data concerned with the use of substances were cross-tabulated with disease occurrence, and relative ratios (RR) of diseases in groups of lifetime substance users versus abstainers/ low frequent users were calculated. Results: Lifetime prevalence estimates were 83.5% for alcohol, 7.9% for cannabis, 8.5% for sedatives, 33.8% for strong analgesics and 2.4% for opioids and for stimulants. Drinking alcohol weekly or daily was associated with lower risk of several diseases, whereas lifetime use of sedatives, strong analgesics and opioids was associated with higher risk. Lifetime use of cannabis was associated with higher risk of depression and lower risk of diabetes and arthrosis. Conclusions: While frequent alcohol use was associated with reduced risk of several diseases, lifetime use of other substances was generally associated with higher risk of disease. The study provides evidence of increased risk of disease among users of illicit substances and prescription drugs.

• Bonsaksen, Tore; Heir, Trond; Bredal, Inger Schou; Ekeberg, Øivind; Skogstad, Laila & Grimholt, Tine K. (2020). Post-traumatic stress disorder and associated factors during the early stage of the COVID-19 pandemic in Norway. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (IJERPH). ISSN 1661-7827. 17(24), p. 1–10. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17249210. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The COVID-19 outbreak and the sudden lockdown of society in March 2020 had a large impact on people’s daily life and gave rise to concerns for the mental health in the general population. The aim of the study was to examine post-traumatic stress reactions related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the prevalence of symptom-defined post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and factors associated with post-traumatic stress in the Norwegian population during the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak. A survey was administered via social media channels, to which a sample of 4527 adults (≥18 years) responded. Symptom-defined PTSD was measured with the PTSD Checklist for the DSM-5. The items were specifically linked to the COVID-19 pandemic. We used the DSM-5 diagnostic guidelines to categorize participants as fulfilling the PTSD symptom criteria or not. Associations with PTSD were examined with single and multiple logistic regression analyses. The prevalence of symptom-defined PTSD was 12.5% for men and 19.5% for women. PTSD was associated with lower age, female gender, lack of social support, and a range of pandemic-related variables such as economic concerns, expecting economic loss, having been in quarantine or isolation, being at high risk for complications from COVID-19 infection, and having concern for family and close friends. In conclusion, post-traumatic stress reactions appear to be common in the Norwegian population in the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak. Concerns about finances, health, and family and friends seem to matter.

• Bjerkeset, Ellen; Røhrl, Kari & Bredal, Inger Schou (2020). Symptom cluster of pain, fatigue, and psychological distress in breast cancer survivors: prevalence and characteristics. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment. ISSN 0167-6806. 180(1), p. 63–71. doi: 10.1007/s10549-020-05522-8. Full text in Research Archive
• Valsø, Åse; Rustøen, Tone; Småstuen, Milada C; Ekeberg, Øivind; Skogstad, Laila & Bredal, Inger Schou [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2020). Effect of Nurse-Led Consultations on Post-Traumatic Stress and Sense of Coherence in Discharged ICU Patients With Clinically Relevant Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms-A Randomized Controlled Trial. Critical Care Medicine. ISSN 0090-3493. 48(12), p. 1218–1225. doi: 10.1097/CCM.0000000000004628. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objectives: To investigate the effect of nurse-led consultations on reducing post-traumatic stress symptoms and increasing sense of coherence in discharged ICU patients with clinically relevant post-traumatic stress symptoms and to identify variables associated with symptoms 12 months later. Design: A pragmatic nonblinded randomized controlled trial. Settings: Five surgical and medical ICUs at Oslo University Hospital. Patients: Adult patients treated in the ICU greater than or equal to 24 hours were screened with Post-Traumatic Stress Scale 10 intensive part B after ICU discharge. Those scoring greater than or equal to 25 were included in the study. Intervention: Patients randomized to intervention group were offered three nurse-led consultations within 2 months, and patients in the control group received standard care. Measurements and Main Results: Sense of Coherence Scale 13 and Post-Traumatic Stress Scale 10 intensive part B were completed after inclusion, and reevaluated after 3, 6, and 12 months. Linear mixed model for repeated measures and linear regression analyses were performed. Among 523 screened patients, 111 and 113 were randomized to intervention group and control group, respectively. Mean Post-Traumatic Stress Scale 10 intensive part B score was 37 (±10) before randomization. No differences in post-traumatic stress symptoms or sense of coherence were found between intervention group versus control group, with a mean Post-Traumatic Stress Scale 10 intensive part B score 39 (95% CI, 37–41) versus 37 (95% CI, 35–39), 32 (95% CI, 28–35) versus 32 (95% CI, 29–35), 31 (95% CI, 28–34) versus 30 (95% CI, 27–33), and 31 (95% CI, 28–34) versus 29 (95% CI, 26–33) at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. There was a significantly reduced Post-Traumatic Stress Scale 10 intensive part B score for both groups during the year (p = 0.001). Low sense of coherence, pain, and previous psychiatric problems were associated with increased level of post-traumatic stress symptoms at 12 months. Conclusions: Nurse-led consultations did not reveal any significant effect on post-traumatic stress symptoms or sense of coherence after ICU discharge in patients with clinically relevant symptoms.

• Bredal, Inger Schou; Bonsaksen, Tore; Ekeberg, Øivind; Skogstad, Laila; Grimholt, Tine Kristin & Lerdal, Anners [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2020). Sexual assault and the association with health, quality of life and self-efficacy in the general Norwegian population. Journal of Interpersonal Violence. ISSN 0886-2605. doi: 10.1177/0886260520926307. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The lifetime prevalence of sexual assault was examined in a representative sample of the general Norwegian adult population (n¼1,792), in addition to the association between sexual assault and health, quality of life, and general self-efficacy. Respondents completed questionnaires assessing these factors. Overall, 6.7% (n¼120) of the respondents (10.9% of women and 1.9% of men) reported an experience of sexual assault. Respondents in the sexual assault group reported significantly worse mental and physical health as well as poorer quality of life and lower self-efficacy, compared with those without sexual assault experience. The most prevalent mental problems in the sexual assault group were depression (61.7%), sleep problems (58.3%), eating disorders (26.7%), and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms at a clinical level (25.0%). The most prevalent physical problems were chronic pain (47.5%) and musculoskeletal disease (30.8%). The proportions of physical and mental health problems were not significantly different between male and female victims. Results indicated that having experienced sexual assault during one’s life appears to be associated with lifetime occurrence of multiple health problems for both genders and reduces a person’s perceived general selfefficacy and quality of life.

• Bredal, Inger Schou; Bonsaksen, Tore; Heir, Trond; Skogstad, Laila; Lerdal, Anners & Grimholt, Tine Kristin [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2019). Optimists report fewer physical and mental health conditions than pessimists in the general Norwegian population. Health Psychology Report. ISSN 2353-4184. 7(1), p. 9–18. doi: 10.5114/hpr.2019.81003. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Several studies have found that optimism is associated with better health. However, all those studies have investigated the subject in a specific context: gender, age group, diagnosis, situation, or population segment. Given the association found between optimism and physical health, mental health and well-being in previous studies, one would expect optimistic individuals in the general population to report fewer physical and mental health conditions during their lifetimes than pessimists. The aim of the present study was to test this hypothesis. Participants and procedure: A random sample of 1792 people participated in a survey on a broad variety of mental and physical health conditions. In addition they filled out the Life Orientation Test– Revised (LOT-R). Optimism was defined as a score of ≥ 17 on the LOT-R. Results: Optimists reported a lower prevalence of a wide range of mental and physical health conditions compared with pessimists. The associations between optimism and better health conditions persisted for the majority of health conditions investigated, even after adjustment for age, gender and education. Overall, pessimists had a greater estimated risk of disease in general. In addition 11.30% of the pessimists reported having had five or more different diseases during their lifetimes, compared with 3.90% of the optimists. Conclusions: Our results add to growing evidence that optimism plays an important role in health and support the view that fostering optimism is an appropriate strategy for promoting health.

• Høghaug, Grete; Skår, Randi; Tran, Thien Ngoc & Bredal, Inger Schou (2019). Nurses' experiences with newly acquired knowledge about medication management: A qualitative study. Journal of Nursing Management. ISSN 0966-0429. 27(8), p. 1731–1737. doi: 10.1111/jonm.12864. Full text in Research Archive
• Heir, Trond; Bonsaksen, Tore; Grimholt, Tine Kristin; Ekeberg, Øivind; Skogstad, Laila & Lerdal, Anners [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2019). Serious life events and post-traumatic stress disorder in the Norwegian population. BJPsych Open. 5(5), p. 1–7. doi: 10.1192/bjo.2019.62. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background It has been suggested that countries with more resources and better healthcare have populations with a higher risk of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Norway is a high-income country with good public healthcare. Aims To examine lifetime trauma exposure and the point prevalence of PTSD in the general Norwegian population. Method A survey was administered to a national probability sample of 5500 adults (aged ≥18 years). Of 4961 eligible individuals, 1792 responded (36%). Responders and non-responders did not differ significantly in age, gender or urban versus rural residence. Trauma exposure was measured using the Life Events Checklist for the DSM-5. PTSD was measured with the PTSD Checklist for the DSM-5. We used the DSM-5 diagnostic guidelines to categorise participants as fulfilling the PTSD symptom criteria or not. Results At least one serious lifetime event was reported by 85% of men and 86% of women. The most common event categories were transportation accident and life-threatening illness or injury. The point prevalence of PTSD was 3.8% for men and 8.5% for women. The most common events causing PTSD were sexual and physical assaults, life-threatening illness or injury, and sudden violent deaths. Risk of PTSD increased proportionally with the number of event categories experienced. Conclusions High estimates of serious life events and correspondingly high rates of PTSD in the Norwegian population support the paradox that countries with more resources and better healthcare have higher risk of PTSD. Possible explanations are high expectations for a risk-free life and high attention to potential harmful mental health effects of serious life events.

• Grimholt, Tine Kristin; Bonsaksen, Tore; Bredal, Inger Schou; Heir, Trond; Lerdal, Anners & Skogstad, Laila [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2019). Flight anxiety reported from 1986 to 2015. Aerospace Medicine and Human Performance. ISSN 2375-6314. 90(4), p. 384–388. doi: 10.3357/AMHP.5125.2019. Full text in Research Archive
• Valsø, Åse; Rustøen, Tone; Skogstad, Laila; Bredal, Inger Schou; Ekeberg, Øivind & Småstuen, Milada Cvancarova [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2019). Post-traumatic stress symptoms and sense of coherence in proximity to intensive care unit discharge. Nursing in Critical Care. ISSN 1362-1017. 25(2), p. 117–125. doi: 10.1111/nicc.12466. Full text in Research Archive
• Bonsaksen, Tore; Ekeberg, Øivind; Skogstad, Laila; Heir, Trond; Grimholt, Tine Kristin & Lerdal, Anners [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2019). Self-rated global health in the Norwegian general population. Health and Quality of Life Outcomes. 17(1). doi: 10.1186/s12955-019-1258-y. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background. Prevalence studies are needed to assess the distribution of diseases. However, in a contrasting health promotion perspective, self-rated health is in itself an important field of study. This study investigated self-rated global health in the general population in Norway. Methods. As part of a national survey, a two-item measure of global health (score range 0–100) was administered to a general population sample, and 1776 of 4961 eligible participants (response rate 36%) responded. Group comparisons were conducted using independent t-tests and one-way analyses of variance, whereas factors associated with global health was investigated with linear regression analysis. Results. In the adjusted analyses, better global health was associated with higher age (β = 0.13, p <  0.001), having higher education (β = 0.10, p <  0.001), being employed (β = 0.21, p <  0.001), and living with a spouse or partner (β = 0.05, p <  0.05). Conclusions. While global health was similar for men and women in the Norwegian general population, other sociodemographic variables were linked with global health. In particular, the link between employment and self-rated global health was strong. The findings are considered representative for the Norwegian population.

• Bonsaksen, Tore; Heir, Trond; Ekeberg, Øivind; Grimholt, Tine Kristin; Lerdal, Anners & Skogstad, Laila [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2019). Self-evaluated anxiety in the Norwegian population: Prevalence and associated factors. Archives of Public Health. ISSN 0778-7367. 77(10). doi: 10.1186/s13690-019-0338-0. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Self-evaluations of mental health problems may be a useful complement to diagnostic assessment, but are less frequently used. This study investigated the prevalence of self-evaluated current and lifetime anxiety in the general Norwegian population, and sociodemographic and psychological factors associated with current anxiety. Methods: A cross-sectional population survey was conducted, using anxiety stated by self-evaluation as outcome. Single and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine associations between sociodemographic and psychological variables and anxiety. Results: One thousand six hundred eighty-four valid responses (34% of the eligible participants) were analysed in this study. One hundred and eleven participants (6.6%) reported current anxiety, while 365 (21.7%) reported lifetime anxiety. Adjusting for sociodemographic and psychological variables, higher age reduced the odds of current anxiety (OR=0.87, 95% CI=0.75–0.99), whereas higher levels of neuroticism increased the odds (OR=2.04, 95% CI=1.77–2.36). Conclusions: The study concludes that higher age appears to protect against anxiety, whereas neuroticism appears to increase the odds of experiencing anxiety.

• Faye-Schjøll, Hege Hovd & Bredal, Inger Schou (2019). Pessimism predicts anxiety and depression in breast cancer survivors: A 5-year follow-up study. Psycho-Oncology. ISSN 1057-9249. 28(6), p. 1314–1320. doi: 10.1002/pon.5084. Full text in Research Archive
• Bonsaksen, Tore; Grimholt, Tine Kristin; Skogstad, Laila; Lerdal, Anners; Ekeberg, Øivind & Heir, Trond [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2018). Self-diagnosed depression in the Norwegian general population - associations with neuroticism, extraversion, optimism, and general self-efficacy. BMC Public Health. 18(1076). doi: 10.1186/s12889-018-5990-8. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Multi-item rating scales for depression informs about the level of depression, but does not allow individuals to state by self-evaluation whether they feel depressed or not. The insider perspective on depression is rarely assessed. This study investigated the prevalence of self-diagnosed depression in the Norwegian general population, and associations with sociodemographic and psychological factors. Methods: As part of a national survey, the General Self-Efficacy Scale, the Life Orientation Test-Revised, a short version of the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire and a one-item measure of self-diagnosed depression was administered to 5. 500 persons in the general Norwegian population. Of the 4961 eligible participants ≥18 years of age, 1.787 (response rate 36%) participated in the survey, and 1.684 of these had valid scores on the relevant scales. The associations between sociodemographic factors and self-diagnosed depression were examined using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results: One hundred and thirty-six participants (8.1%) reported depression during the preceding month. When adjusting for sociodemographic and psychological variables, higher age (OR=0.82), being in work (OR=0.57), and higher levels of general self-efficacy (OR=0.67) and optimism (OR=0.52) were associated with lower risk of self-diagnosed depression, whereas higher levels of neuroticism (OR=1.97) was associated with higher risk. Conclusions: The prevalence of self-diagnosed depression in the adult Norwegian population was higher for women than for men. Higher age, being in work and having higher levels of psychological resources appear to reduce the risk of selfdiagnosed depression, whereas neuroticism increases the risk.

• Moberg, Ingvild; Bredal, Inger Schou; Schneider, Michael; Tønseth, Kim Alexander & Schlichting, Ellen (2018). Complications, risk factors, and patients-reported outcomes after skin-sparing mastectomy followed by breast reconstruction in women with BRCA mutations. Journal of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery. ISSN 2000-656X. 52(4), p. 234–239. doi: 10.1080/2000656X.2018.1470093. Full text in Research Archive
• Bonsaksen, Tore; Lerdal, Anners; Heir, Trond; Ekeberg, Øivind; Skogstad, Laila & Grimholt, Tine Kristin [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2018). General self-efficacy in the Norwegian population: Differences and similarities between sociodemographic groups. Scandinavian Journal of Public Health. ISSN 1403-4948. doi: 10.1177/1403494818756701. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Aims: General self-efficacy (GSE) refers to optimistic self-beliefs of being able to perform and control behaviors, and is linked with various physical and mental health outcomes. Measures of self-efficacy are commonly used in health research with clinical populations, but are less explored in relationship to sociodemographic characteristics in general populations. This study investigated GSE in relation to sociodemographic characteristics in the general population in Norway. Methods: As part of a larger national survey, the GSE scale was administered to a general population sample, and 1787 out of 4961 eligible participants (response rate 36%) completed the scale. Group comparisons were conducted using independent t-tests and one-way analyses of variance. Linear regression analysis was used to examine factors independently associated with GSE. Results: GSE was lower for older compared to younger participants (p < 0.001). It was higher for men compared to women (p < 0.001), higher for those with higher levels of education compared to those with lower levels (p < 0.001) and higher for those in work compared to their counterparts (p < 0.001). Controlling for all variables, male gender and employment were independently associated with higher GSE. Age moderated the associations between gender and employment on one hand, and GSE on the other. The association between being male and having higher GSE was more pronounced in younger age, as was the association between being employed and having higher GSE. Conclusions: Male gender and being employed were related to higher GSE among persons in the general population in Norway, and these associations were stronger among persons of younger age. The findings are considered fairly representative for the Norwegian population.

• Bredal, Inger Schou & Tøien, Kirsti (2017). Is Dispositional Optimism Associated with Fatigue in Breast Cancer Survivors? PSYCHOLOGY. ISSN 2152-7180. p. 1762–1773. doi: 10.4236/psych.2017.811116. Full text in Research Archive
• Hetmann, Fredrik; Kongsgaard, Ulf; Sandvik, Leiv & Bredal, Inger Schou (2017). Post-thoracotomy pain syndrome and sensory disturbances following thoracotomy at 6-and 12-month follow-ups. Journal of Pain Research. 10, p. 663–668. doi: 10.2147/JPR.S126639. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Persistent pain affects a large proportion of patients after thoracotomy and is associated with sensory disturbances. The objective of this prospective study was to investigate the time course of pain and sensory disturbances over a 12-month period. Methods: Patients scheduled for thoracotomy were recruited. Data were collected on the day before surgery, including baseline characteristics and the presence of any preoperative pain. At 6- and 12-month follow-ups, data on pain were collected using the Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form, and perceived sensory disturbances around the thoracotomy scar were recorded from a self-exploration test. Results: At 12 months after surgery, 97 patients had complete data including baseline and 6- and 12-month measurements. Almost half of the patients reported post-thoracotomy pain at the follow-ups. However, 20% of the patients not reporting post-thoracotomy pain at 6 months did report it at 12 months. Between 40% and 60% of patients experienced some kind of sensory disturbance at 6 months. A small decline in some kind of sensory disturbance was reported by 20%–50% of patients at 12 months. Conclusion: A proportion of patients experienced either resolved or delayed onset of pain. Sensory changes were strongly associated with post-thoracotomy pain syndrome, but were also present in a large proportion of patients without it.

• Bredal, Inger Schou; Heir, Trond; Skogstad, Laila; Bonsaksen, Tore; Lerdal, Anners & Grimholt, Tine Kristin [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2017). Population-based norms of the Life Orientation Test–Revised (LOT-R). International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology. ISSN 1697-2600. 17(3), p. 216–224. doi: 10.1016/j.ijchp.2017.07.005. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background/Objective: The most common used instrument to measure optimism, both in psychological and medical research, is the Life Orientation Test- Revised (LOT-R). A multi-countries study using the future item from the LOT-R, found that level of optimism varied between countries. The provision of population-based norms is necessary, since norms enable the application of the LOT-R in individual diagnosis to compare individuals or special patient groups’ scores with reference data. Method: A representative population based survey was conducted in 2014-2015. Norwegian aged 18–94 years (N = 1,792) completed questionnaires assessing sociodemographic, optimism and health and quality of life. Results: The mean age was 53.2 (SD = 16.6) and 53% were women. Mean LOT-R score was 17.2 (SD 3.0). There were marginal age and no gender differences. Although optimism was associated with sociodemographic variables, these were considered negligible due to small effect size. Norm data are given for the entire population. Optimism was associated with better health and quality of life. Conclusions: This study provides age and gender specific norm values from a representative sample of the Norwegian population. The normative data may be used in comparisons of optimism between individuals or between different samples of patients or sub-groups of people.

• Bredal, Inger Schou & Ekeberg, Øivind (2016). The stability of dispositional optimism in relation to receiving or not receiving a cancer diagnosis. PSYCHOLOGY. ISSN 2152-7180. 7, p. 806–814. doi: 10.4236/psych.2016.76083. Full text in Research Archive
• Mentzoni, Wenche & Bredal, Inger Schou (2016). Stell og bruk av sentralt venekateter i intensivavdeling. Sykepleien Forskning. ISSN 1890-2936. p. 46–54. doi: 10.4220/Sykepleienf.2016.56823. Full text in Research Archive
• Steindal, Simen Alexander; Bredal, Inger Schou; Ranhoff, Anette Hylen; Sørbye, Liv Wergeland & Lerdal, Anners (2015). The last three days of life: A comparison of pain management in the young old and the oldest old hospitalised patients using the Resident Assessment Instrument for Palliative Care. International Journal of Older People Nursing. ISSN 1748-3735. 10(4), p. 263–272. doi: 10.1111/opn.12076. Full text in Research Archive
• Hetmann, Fredrik; Kongsgaard, Ulf; Sandvik, Leiv & Bredal, Inger Schou (2015). Prevalence and predictors of persistent post-surgical pain 12 months after thoracotomy. Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica. ISSN 0001-5172. 59(6), p. 740–748. doi: 10.1111/aas.12532. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Persistent post-surgical pain is recognised as a major problem. Prevalence after different surgical procedures has been reported to range from 5% up to 85%. Limb amputation and thoracotomy have the highest reported prevalence. Prediction of persistent post-surgical pain has over the last decade caught atten- tion. Several factors have been investigated, but in-depth knowl- edge is still scarce. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of persistent post-surgical pain, and predictive fac- tors for persistent post-surgical pain 12 months after thoracotomy. Methods: A prospective longitudinal study was conducted. One- hundred and seventy patients were recruited before scheduled thoracotomy, and asked to answer a questionnaire. One-hundred and six patients completed the same questionnaire at 12-month follow-up. Regression analysis was performed to explore vari- ables assumed predictive of persistent post-surgical pain. Results: One-hundred and six patients (62%) filled out the questionnaire at both time points. Preoperative, 34% reported muscle-skeletal related chronic pain. At 12-month follow-up, 50% of the patients reported persistent post-surgical pain. Of the vari- ables explored in the logistic regression model, only preoperative pain ( P < 0.001) and dispositional optimism ( P = 0.04) were sta- tistically significant. In this study, preoperative pain was a pre- dominant predictor for persistent postoperative pain (OR 6.97, CI 2.40 – 20.21), while dispositional optimism (OR 0.36, CI 0.14 – 0.96) seem to have protective properties. Conclusion: Our results show that preoperative pain is a pre- dominant predictor of future pain. This implies that patients pre- senting with a chronic pain condition prior to surgery should be assessed thoroughly preoperatively and have an individually tailored analgesic regimen.

• Bredal, Inger Schou; Kåresen, Rolf; Smeby, Nina Aarhus; Espe, Randi; Sørensen, Elin & Amundsen, Mette [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2014). Effects of a Psychoeducational Versus a Support Group Intervention in Patients With Early-Stage Breast Cancer: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial. Cancer Nursing. ISSN 0162-220X. 37(3), p. 198–207. doi: 10.1097/NCC.0b013e31829879a3. Full text in Research Archive
• Bredal, Inger Schou; Smeby, Nina Aarhus; Ottesen, Stig; Warncke, Torhild & Schlichting, Ellen (2014). Chronic pain in breast cancer survivors: Comparison of psychosocial, surgical, and medical characteristics between survivors with and without pain. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management. ISSN 0885-3924. 48(5), p. 852–862. doi: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2013.12.239. Full text in Research Archive
• Hetmann, Fredrik; Bredal, Inger Schou; Sandvik, Leiv & Kongsgaard, Ulf (2013). Does chronic preoperative pain predict severe postoperative pain after thoracotomy. Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica. ISSN 0001-5172. 57(8), p. 1065–1072. Full text in Research Archive
• Syse, Irene & Bredal, Inger Schou (2013). Studiesykepleiere - hvem er de og hva gjør de? :. Sykepleien Forskning. ISSN 1890-2936. p. 250–258. doi: 10.4220/sykepleienf.2013.0089. Full text in Research Archive
• Bredal, Inger Schou; Kåresen, Rolf; Skaane, Per; Engelstad, Kari Sletten & Ekeberg, Øivind (2013). Recall mammography and psychological distress. European Journal of Cancer. ISSN 0959-8049. 49(4), p. 805–811. doi: 10.1016/j.ejca.2012.09.001. Full text in Research Archive
• Hovind, Inger Liv; Bredal, Inger Schou & Dihle, Alfhild (2013). Women's experience of acute and chronic pain following breast cancer surgery. Journal of Clinical Nursing (JCN). ISSN 0962-1067. 22(7-8), p. 1044–1052. doi: 10.1111/jocn.12167. Full text in Research Archive
• Hetmann, Fredrik; Bredal, Inger Schou; Sandvik, Leiv & Kongsgaard, Ulf (2013). Does chronic pre-operative pain predict severe post-operative pain after thoracotomy? A prospective longitudinal study. Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica. ISSN 0001-5172. 57(8), p. 1065–1072. doi: 10.1111/aas.12159. Full text in Research Archive
• Steindal, Simen Alexander; Sørbye, Liv Wergeland; Bredal, Inger Schou & Lerdal, Anners (2012). Agreement in documentaion of symptoms, clinical signs, and treatment at the end of life. A comparison of data retrieved from nurse interviews and electronic patient records using the Resident Assessment Instrument for Palliative care. Journal of Clinical Nursing (JCN). ISSN 0962-1067. 21(9-10), p. 1416–1424. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2702.2011.03867.x. Full text in Research Archive
• Tøien, Kirsti; Skogstad, Laila; Ekeberg, Øivind; Myhren, Hilde & Bredal, Inger Schou (2012). Prevalence and predictors of return to work in hospitalised trauma patients during the first year after discharge: A prospective cohort study. Injury. ISSN 0020-1383. 43(9), p. 1606–1613. doi: 10.1016/j.injury.2011.03.038. Full text in Research Archive
• Steindal, Simen Alexander; Ranhoff, Anette Hylen; Bredal, Inger Schou; Sørbye, Liv Wergeland & Lerdal, Anners (2012). Last three days of life in the hospital: a comparison of symptoms, signs, and treatment in the young old and the oldest old patients using the resident Assessment Instrument for Palliative care. International Journal of Older People Nursing. ISSN 1748-3735. 8(3), p. 199–206. doi: 10.1111/j.1748-3743.2012.00313.x. Full text in Research Archive
• Steindal, Simen Alexander; Bredal, Inger Schou; Sørbye, Liv Wergeland & Lerdal, Anners (2011). Pain control at the end of life: a comparative study of hospitalized cancer and noncancer patients. Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences. ISSN 0283-9318. 25(4), p. 771–779. doi: 10.1111/j.1471-6712.2011.00892.x. Full text in Research Archive
• Bredal, Inger Schou; Sandvik, Leiv; Kåresen, Rolf & Ekeberg, Øivind (2011). Prognostic value of health-related quality-of-life parameters in early-stage breast cancer: an 8-year follow-up study. Psycho-Oncology. ISSN 1057-9249. 20(10), p. 1102–1107. doi: 10.1002/pon.1822. Full text in Research Archive
• Tøien, Kirsti; Bredal, Inger Schou; Skogstad, Laila; Myhren, Hilde & Ekeberg, Øivind (2011). Health related quality of life in trauma patients. Data from a one-year follow up study compared with the general population. Scandinavian Journal of Trauma, Resuscitation and Emergency Medicine. 19. doi: 10.1186/1757-7241-19-22. Full text in Research Archive
• Stafseth, Siv Anna Ulla Britt Karlsson; Solms, Diana & Bredal, Inger Schou (2011). The characterisiation of workloads and nursing staff allocation in intensive care units: a descriptive study using the Nursing Activities Score for the first time in Norway. Intensive and Critical Care Nursing. ISSN 0964-3397. 27(5), p. 290–294. doi: 10.1016/j.iccn.2011.07.003. Full text in Research Archive
• Tøien, Kirsti; Skogstad, Laila; Ekeberg, Øivind; Myhren, Hilde & Bredal, Inger Schou (2011). Predictors of return to work in hospitalized trauma patients during the first year after discharge: A prospective cohort study. Injury. ISSN 0020-1383. doi: 10.1016/j.injury.2011.03.038. Full text in Research Archive
• Tøien, Kirsti; Myhren, Hilde; Bredal, Inger Schou; Skogstad, Laila; Sandvik, Leiv & Ekeberg, Øivind (2010). Psychological Distress After Severe Trauma: A Prospective 1-Year Follow-Up Study of a Trauma Intensive Care Unit Population. Journal of Trauma. ISSN 0022-5282. 69(6), p. 1552–1559. doi: 10.1097/TA.0b013e3181e125f3. Full text in Research Archive
• Bredal, Inger Schou (2010). The Norwegian version of the Mini-Mental Adjustment to Cancer Scale: factor structure and psychometric properties. Psycho-Oncology. ISSN 1057-9249. 19(2), p. 216–221. doi: 10.1002/pon.1564. Full text in Research Archive
• Bredal, Inger Schou; Sandvik, Leiv; Kåresen, Rolf & Ekeberg, Øivind (2010). Prognostic value of health-related quality-of-life parameters in early-stage breast cancer: an 8-year follow-up study. Psycho-Oncology. ISSN 1057-9249. Aug 25. doi: 10.1002/pon.1822. Full text in Research Archive
• Bredal, Inger Schou; Ekeberg, Øivind; Kåresen, Rolf & Sørensen, Elin (2007). Psychosocial intervention as a component of routine breast cancer care-who participates and does it help? Psycho-Oncology. ISSN 1057-9249. doi: 10.1002/pon.1264. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Women who participated in the hospital psychosocial support groups following breast cancer surgery were compared with non-participants. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the EORTC quality of life questionnaire were used to measure emotional distress and quality of life at the time of diagnosis and after 12 months. The General Life Orientation Test-Revised was used to measure dispositional optimism. Of 165 women, 87% reported that they had been invited to participate, and 66% participated. The salient predictor for participating in support group was optimism (OR 0.89 CI: 95% 0.83-0.98, p=0.01). No significant difference was found between the prevalence of anxiety and depression caseness at the time of diagnosis, but after 12 months, the prevalence of anxiety caseness was significantly lower among the participants than that among the non-participants (19% vs 34%, p=0.04).In conclusion, psychosocial intervention as a component of routine breast cancer care appears to have a long-term clinical beneficial effect on anxiety. For depression and quality of life, the study is inconclusive. Self-selection may prevent patients at risk of adverse outcome to participate in support groups.

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• Nilsen, Liv; Bjøro, Karen L. Kautzman; Wego, Ellen & Bredal, Inger Schou (2010). Det sårbare mennesket. Hertervig Akademisk. ISBN 9788282161275. 147 p. Full text in Research Archive

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• Tøien, Kristine; Rustøen, Tone; Skogstad, Laila; Schou-Bredal, Inger; Sunde, Kjetil & Ekeberg, Øivind [Show all 11 contributors for this article] (2016). Association between posttraumatic stress symptoms and sense of coherence in intensive care patients. Full text in Research Archive
• Tøien, Kirsti; Rustøen, Tone; Skogstad, Laila; Hagen, Milada Småstuen; Sunde, Kjetil & Schou-Bredal, Inger [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2016). Association between posttraumatic stress symptoms and sense of coherence in intensive care patients. Full text in Research Archive
• Bredal, Inger Schou (2013). Dispositional Optimism and Fatigue in Breast Cancer Survivors. Psycho-Oncology. ISSN 1057-9249. 22, p. 336–337. Full text in Research Archive
• Bredal, Inger Schou; Kåresen, Rolf; Skaane, Per; Engelstad, Kari & Ekeberg, Øivind (2012). Recall Mammography and Psychological Distress. European Journal of Cancer. ISSN 0959-8049. 48, p. S80–S80. Full text in Research Archive
• Steindal, Simen Alexander; Bredal, Inger Schou; Hylen, Ranhoff Anette; Sørbye, Liv Wergeland & Lerdal, Anners (2012). Pain management in dying hospitalized patients: A comparison of the young old and the oldest old patients. Full text in Research Archive
• Steindal, Simen Alexander; Ranhoff, Anette Hylen; Bredal, Inger Schou; Sørbye, Liv Wergeland & Lerdal, Anners (2012). A comparison of pain management the last three days of life of hospitalized adult and old cancer patients. Full text in Research Archive
• Steindal, Simen Alexander; Bredal, Inger Schou; Ranhoff, Anette Hylen; Sørbye, Liv Wergeland & Lerdal, Anners (2012). Smerte hos døende pasienter innlagt i sykehus: En sammenlignende studie av de unge gamle og de eldste gamle pasientene i de tre siste levedager. Full text in Research Archive
• Steindal, Simen Alexander; Ranhoff, Anette Hylen; Bredal, Inger Schou; Sørbye, Liv Wergeland & Lerdal, Anners (2012). A comparison of pain management the last three days of life of hospitalized adult and old cancer patients. Support Care Cancer. 20, p. 168–168. Full text in Research Archive
• Strømme, Hilde; Bjøro, Karen; Bredal, Inger Schou & Borgen, Karin (2009). We couldn’t have done it without the librarians!: evidence based practice at a large Norwegian University Hospital. Full text in Research Archive
• Gullien, Randi; Strømme, Hilde; Haakull, Anne Emilie; Rostad, Eline & Bredal, Inger Schou (2009). How a model for evidence based practice is used in radiography in breast diagnostic centre at Ullevaal University Hospital. Full text in Research Archive
• Gullien, Randi; Rostad, Eline; Haakull, Anne Emilie; Andersen, Jack Gunnar; Bredal, Inger Schou & Strømme, Hilde (2009). Are there improvement in PGMI results after implementations of different improvement initiatives? Follow-up project (ECR 2008). Full text in Research Archive
• Gullien, Randi; Strømme, Hilde; Haakull, Anne Emilie; Rostad, Eline & Bredal, Inger Schou (2009). How a model for Evidence Based Practice (EBP) developed for nursing can be transferred to the field of radiography. European Radiology. ISSN 0938-7994. 19, p. 502–502. Full text in Research Archive
• Gullien, Randi; Rostad, Eline; Haakull, Anne Emilie; Andersen, Jack Gunnar; Bredal, Inger Schou & Strømme, Hilde (2009). Are there improvements in PGMI results after implementations of different improvement initiatives? Follow-up project (ECR 2008). European Radiology. ISSN 0938-7994. 19, p. 292–292. Full text in Research Archive
• Gullien, Randi; Rostad, Eline; Andersen, Jack Gunnar; Haakull, Anne Emilie; Strømme, Hilde & Bredal, Inger Schou (2009). Quality improvement of mammograms is a challenge. A quality project at Breast Imaging Centre, Oslo University Hospital, Ullevaal. Full text in Research Archive
• Gullien, Randi; Strømme, Hilde; Haakull, Anne Emilie; Rostad, Eline & Bredal, Inger Schou (2009). Using an interdisiplinary model for Evidence Based Practice (EBP) to improve the quality of mammograms at Breast Imaging Centre, Oslo University Hospital, Ullevaal. Full text in Research Archive
• Strømme, Hilde; Bredal, Inger Schou & Bjøro, Karen (2007). The Medical Library's Role in Supporting Evidence Based Practice. Full text in Research Archive
• Strømme, Hilde; Bredal, Inger Schou; Bjøro, Karen & Underdal, Hege (2007). The Ullevaal Model for Evidence Based Practice in Nursing: the Library’s Role. Full text in Research Archive
• Strømme, Hilde; Bredal, Inger Schou & Bjøro, Karen (2006). The Ullevaal Model for Evidence Based Practice. Journal of the European Association for Health Information and Libraries (JEAHIL). ISSN 1841-0715. 2(3), p. 39–41. Full text in Research Archive

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