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Prenatal and postpartum care that is culturally safe is crucial because it guarantees that moms will feel accepted, valued, and recognized during labor and delivery. Acknowledging and respecting traditions, beliefs, and practices fosters rapport, trust and enhances  overall maternal and infant health outcomes (Shorey et al., 2021). Providing a safe environment where patients feel empowered to make decisions about their care without fear of discrimination or bias is a key component of culturally safe nursing care (Shorey et al., 2021). Culturally safe care is very important to me as I have seen first hand in various situations (and in this case my maternity placement), where people of different cultures are shamed for being pregnant and seeking medical attention. I believe everyone has the right to healthcare, and nobody should be treated poorly regardless of culture. This could result in these individuals not wanting to seek medical care when it is necessary, facing discrimination from the healthcare team or other individuals or just being discriminated against while out in public resulting in fears of what will happen during labour (Shorey et al., 2021). It is unfortunate that this happens however, raising awareness, and respecting various cultural practices and keeping opinions to oneself can help improve culturally safe care.

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This art project supports the topic of "Culturally Sensitive Care." This art is an original drawing of mine symbolizing a mother, who I had met at placement, facing discrimination for being a black pregnant woman. The outside of the heart symbolize her real world experiences while facing discrimination as a pregnant woman, whereas the inside of the heart containing the puzzle pieces symbolize the emptiness and "blank" thoughts the mom was experiencing as a result of this discrimination. The photo represents the challenges that a person of a different culture experienced while pregnant (Mehra et al., 2020). It is the harsh reality that people of different cultures experience racism and discrimination, especially when receiving care (Mehra et al., 2020). This artifact strongly portrays this reality, which emphasizes the need for nurses to provide culturally sensitive care (Mehra et al., 2020). Nurses can do so by acknowledging cultures, respecting practices and traditions and educating other healthcare providers about the importance of culturally safe care (Mehra et al., 2020).

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The selected quote promotes culturally safe care by highlighting the positive impacts that small but significant acts of kindness can have on patient outcomes, especially when these patients face discrimination. This quote resonates with me because I believe everybody should receive the appropriate care tailored to their needs, and one little act of kindness towards anyone can go a long way, especially when individuals are facing immense discrimination. These individuals do not need to face more discrimination from the healthcare system as well as facing other battles outside of healthcare. They should feel safe, respected and heard by healthcare professionals. Additionally, culturally safe maternal care involves recognizing and honouring a patient's cultural beliefs, practices, and values during labor and delivery (Vedeler et al., 2024). This could entail adopting culturally appropriate language and communication patterns, incorporating family members in choices about care, or allowing for traditional birthing practices based on various cultures (Vedeler et al., 2024). Respect and understanding for a patient's cultural background by healthcare providers fosters emotional safety and trust, which can lower patient stress and enhance the health of mothers and newborns (Vedeler et al., 2024). Overall, when healthcare providers provide culturally safe care, this act of kindness can change an individual's life for the better because they receive care without being discriminated against.

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Application of Relational Inquiry to Culturally Safe Care 

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Application of Relational Inquiry to Culturally Safe Care 

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Understanding and honoring each patient's distinct cultural background, values, and beliefs is a key component of relational inquiry in culturally sensitive care (Vedeler et al., 2024). Nurses can build trust and provide a secure atmosphere where patients feel appreciated and understood by practicing active listening and open communication. This method enables nurses to modify care plans in accordance with the patient's cultural traditions, providing effective and courteous treatment while preventing discrepancies or inadvertent injury.

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References for Culturally Safe Care Section

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References for Culturally Safe Care Section

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attached are three article references to help facilitate more discussion about culturally safe care

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I believe it's crucial to understand postpartum depression since it has a direct impact on a mother's mental health at a vulnerable and life-changing time in her life. As a future nurse, I believe it's crucial to fully understand the complexities of postpartum depression to assist moms with the emotional and psychological support they require after giving birth. I also understand that postpartum depression is something that requires not only partner support but also support from healthcare providers so mom has a wide variety of support systems and as healthcare providers, we can provide mom and her spouse with education about postpartum depression so she can effectively recover and cope. Finally, as a future nurse, I want to be able to recognize warning signs so I can, inform families, be a support system to the parents and offer treatments to help improve the mental health of both mother and child.

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Artifact Three - Postpartum Depression TedTalk

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Artifact Three - Postpartum Depression TedTalk

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This artifact relates to the topic of "postpartum depression" because it is a TedTalk about this woman's experience with postpartum depression. The TedTalk also discusses the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression. I also noted that in the TedTalk, she discussed her own feelings and experiences with post-partum depression, and it seems like she aspires to raise awareness about how horribly this mental health issue affected her, trying to hopefully reach the right people, the ones who need it. Postpartum depression can cause worsened mental health issues if not treated/recognized early (Carlson et al., 2025). I believe that this artifact can help mothers and their families with recognizing, and effectively treating postpartum depression, as it can go unrecognized (Carlson et al., 2025). Lastly, I believe that sharing this artifact will help me foster a supportive environment, and understand more about postpartum depression so I can help my future patients overcome their mental health issues (Carlson et al., 2025).

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Why we all need to talk about postpartum depression | Auburn Harrison | TEDxUniversityofNevada

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Artifact Four ~ A Book About Postpartum Depression

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Artifact Four ~ A Book About Postpartum Depression

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I believe that this book about Postpartum depression relates to the issue as it provides readers with the knowledge and understanding about the signs, symptoms, risks and warning signs of postpartum depression, which in turn allows them to recognize these things and seek treatment. This is actually a book that my aunt and cousin read to help them treat this mental illness. My dad also read this book to help him understand how to support and cope with my mom through her struggles. Mothers and their partners are both greatly affected by postpartum depression. Postpartum depression can cause moms to feel depressed, guilty, and alone, which makes it hard for them to connect with their child or do everyday chores (Liu et al., 2021). This emotional stress can lead to social disengagement and a decrease in self-worth. As they attempt to assist their spouse while also taking on more caregiving duties, spouses with postpartum depression may experience emotions of frustration and powerlessness (Liu et al., 2021). Relationship tension, disagreements, and misunderstandings may result from this (Liu et al., 2021). In the end, postpartum depression strains the family dynamic, emphasizing the necessity of open communication and support to assist both parents deal with the difficulties of the postpartum phase (Liu et al., 2021).

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Application of Relational Inquiry to Post Partum Depression

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Application of Relational Inquiry to Post Partum Depression

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In order to help moms feel comfortable talking about their experiences, relational inquiry in postpartum depression entails establishing a caring and accepting environment (Carlson et al., 2025). By acknowledging the emotional and psychological challenges of new parenthood and approving the mother's experiences without passing judgment, nurses can foster trust. Nurses can help moms feel less alone in their challenges and gain access to the right mental health resources by providing them with sympathetic support and contemplative listening.

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I believe it is important to understand the various challenges associated with breastfeeding not only as a future nurse, but also as someone who potentially wants kids in the future. I believe understanding the challenges associated with breastfeeding will assist me (as a future nurse) with helping my patients overcome these various challenges. It will help me also provide them with supports and resources to help my patients overcome these challenges, so they give breastfeeding a chance.

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Often times, moms who struggle to breastfeed end up trying it and not figuring out hoe to fix these problems so their experience is better. Attached is a link (click the picture) to a lactation consultant who can help provide tips and tricks for overcoming the various challenges associated with breastfeeding. Mel is local to the Peterborough area and has several years of experience and various qualifications. By offering professional advice and assistance targeted to the requirements of the mother and child, a lactation consultant may be extremely helpful in overcoming breastfeeding obstacles (D’Hollander et al., 2025). By evaluating latch problems, posture, and feeding methods, they can make sure the infant is breastfeeding well and spare the mother from suffering or discomfort (D’Hollander et al., 2025). A lactation consultant can provide useful remedies, such as modifying feeding schedules, offering strategies to boost milk production, or advising methods to manage uncomfortable situations, if there are issues like engorgement, poor milk supply, or nipple discomfort (D’Hollander et al., 2025). They also offer emotional support, which can lessen stress and anxiety by boosting moms' self-esteem and reassuring them about nursing (D’Hollander et al., 2025). Lactation consultants can provide customized care for moms who experience unique situations, such as early delivery or tongue tie (D’Hollander et al., 2025). Finally, Mel is also a very good support for other situations such as first time moms and postpartum depression. Mel is a great support that can benefit anyone struggling with breastfeeding, anyone who has various questions about breastfeeding or just needs help as it is their first time. Mel will ensure your experience with breastfeeding, and her as your lactation consultant is the best it can be!

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Mel Neal Bio — Peterborough Doula Services

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This artifact is a good example of what moms struggle with when breastfeeding. Moms often face challenges with latching and positioning of herself and baby, which could either result in mom resorting to formula feeding due to not knowing how to fix this. Another thing that could happen is, if mom does continue to breastfeed, and does not do it right or seek assistance, baby could face challenges such as malnutrition, neck problems or weakened neck muscles (Zakarija-Grkovic & Stewart, 2020). Additionally, improper latching and positioning could also result in other complications for mom such as engorgement, mastitis, sore and cracked nipples and even clogged milk ducts (Zakarija-Grkovic & Stewart, 2020). It is important to seek assistance with breastfeeding if moms are experiencing any challenges, this can help improve moms experience and reduce the chances of baby struggling with latching and having other complications (Zakarija-Grkovic & Stewart, 2020).

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Artifact Seven ~ Discharge Teaching Assignment Mat Child

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Artifact Seven ~ Discharge Teaching Assignment Mat Child

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This artifact is a picture of me, the night before my discharge teaching assignment for my maternal child placement. The relevance to my chosen topic of "challenges associated with breastfeeding" includes the fact that during our presentation I demonstrated effective breastfeeding techniques to my classmates and Clinical Instructor through a fake (but real) nipple taped to a bra of my moms, while using a cabbage patch kid as my baby. I called upon one of my classmates before the presentation and asked her if she had been pregnant before (she has not), so i asked her to try to demonstrate a proper latch and positioning. She could not, as she had not had a baby before. This was sort of the equivalent to new moms not knowing what to do. I proceeded to ask my classmate if she would continue breastfeeding if she did not have the knowledge or assistance with breastfeeding. She said no. Ultimately, if a mother does not have the proper education about how to breastfeed, challenges associated with breastfeeding, the proper resources or appropriate coping strategies; she will likely not breastfeed. Therefore, it is important to provide moms with education, resources, and support that would be helpful so they have all the knowledge about how to overcome challenges with breastfeeding such as improper latching, mastitis, engorgement and more.

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Application of Relational Inquiry to Challenges Associated With Breastfeeding

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Application of Relational Inquiry to Challenges Associated With Breastfeeding

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Understanding the social, emotional, and physical barriers that moms encounter is a key component of relational research in breastfeeding difficulties. Nurses may provide moms with individualized guidance and reassurance by listening to their worries without imposing their own prejudices (Zakarija-Grkovic & Stewart, 2020). Developing a relationship based on trust enables moms to feel empowered to ask for assistance when they need it and to make well-informed decisions regarding nursing that meet their individual and family requirements.

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Artifact Eight ~ Not Afraid (CLEAN) by Eminem

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Artifact Eight ~ Not Afraid (CLEAN) by Eminem

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The song, Not Afraid by Eminem is a very symbolic artifact for the topic that I would like to learn more about, which is substance use while pregnant. This song is a song about substance use, quitting drugs, and being "clean," but it also discusses relapse. This artifact is very symbolic for this topic as it discusses the realities of substance abuse, which can occur at any time in a persons life. Getting pregnant right after quitting drugs, poses a risk for relapse during pregnancy (Hacker et al., 2021). Additionally, using substances during pregnancy poses a HIGH risk for complications in the baby. Once born, the baby could face neonatal withdrawal, preterm birth, sudden infant death syndrome, cognitive and behavioural problems and even a stillbirth (Hacker et al., 2021). Continuing to use substances during pregnancy and postpartum could pose a risk for the infant to get addicted due to the possibility of the infant consuming the substance through breastmilk (Hacker et al., 2021). Preventing substance use during pregnancy requires understanding triggers for cravings, how to cope with withdrawal symptoms and possible therapy/counselling (Hacker et al., 2021). Looking into ones own experience with withdrawal symptoms, and being able to understand triggers for these symptoms and causes of cravings could help an individual find a meaningful way to cope with substance withdrawal (Hacker et al., 2021). Overall, sharing this artifact recognizes that substance abuse is an ongoing issue, and those going through it should know that they are not alone and others could have similar experiences. This is why it is important to share experiences and seek help before it affects others' lives as well as the individual who is experiencing addiction.

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Eminem - Not Afraid (Lyrics) - Clean Version

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Artifact Nine ~ Substance Abuse During Pregnancy Podcast

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Artifact Nine ~ Substance Abuse During Pregnancy Podcast

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This is a very informative podcast/teaching about substance use and abuse during pregnancy. It is relevant to the topic I would like to learn more about as it discusses the topic and the risks, impacts it could cause on the mom and babe as well as solutions to this issue. Substance abuse is a very big issue during pregnancy as it could not only impact mom but also immensely impact the baby. I think it's critical to understand drug use during pregnancy since it affects the mother and the unborn child in significant, long-term ways. Preterm birth, low birth weight, developmental delays, and neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS), in which the baby suffers withdrawal symptoms after birth, are just a few of the severe consequences that can result from substance use during pregnancy (Meinhofer et al., 2020). In addition to the physical consequences, drug abuse can raise the mother's risk of mental health issues including anxiety and depression, which can impact maternal bonding and the stability of the family as a whole (Meinhofer et al., 2020). Improving health outcomes requires educating patients about the hazards, offering nonjudgmental treatment, and putting them in touch with recovery options. Gaining further expertise in this field will enable me to assist expecting women with these difficulties with greater empathy and efficiency (Meinhofer et al., 2020). As a nurse, I could provide someone who is experiencing substance abuse with this podcast to help educate them on the impacts it has. Rather than having a patient watch an hour long podcast, since I have watched it, I could provide meaningful information about the contents in this podcast to educate families about this topic.

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Application of Relational Inquiry to Substance Use During Pregnancy

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Application of Relational Inquiry to Substance Use During Pregnancy

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To apply relational inquiry to using substances during pregnancy, nurses need to find a balance between responsibility and compassion. Empathizing with patients instead of passing judgment makes them feel supported and increases their likelihood of asking for assistance (Hacker et al., 2021). Nurses can connect patients to the right services and create harm reduction plans that safeguard the mother and the unborn child by having a thorough understanding of the social, emotional, and psychological components that accompany substance abuse (Hacker et al., 2021).

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Teen pregnancy is an important topic to me because it highlights the unique challenges faced by young mothers and the complex emotional, social, and health-related tolls that it can take on young moms. Understanding teen pregnancy allows me to develop greater empathy and provide better support to young mothers who may feel overwhelmed, isolated, or judged. Teen mothers often face barriers such as limited access to healthcare, lack of emotional and financial support, and increased risks of mental health issues like depression and anxiety (Cook & Cameron, 2020). By learning about these challenges, I can approach their care with sensitivity, ensuring they feel supported and respected. It also underscores the importance of health education, early intervention, and accessible resources to improve outcomes for both the mother and the baby (Cook & Cameron, 2020). Understanding teen pregnancy as a future nurse would enable me to support young moms, guide them through the healthcare system, and establish a safe, accepting environment where they feel appreciated and acknowledged.

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Artifact Ten ~ Fast Car by Tracey Chapman

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Artifact Ten ~ Fast Car by Tracey Chapman

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The song Fast Car is a very symbolic artifact relates to the topic of teen pregnancy. The song narrates the tale of a young lady who, is enduring significant challenges in her life, longs to leave her difficult life in search of stability and a brighter future. Many adolescent moms may experience poverty, strained family ties, and the stress of attempting to improve their child's and their own lives, all of which are reflected in this subject (Eliner et al., 2022). The song's lines, "You got a fast car, and I got a plan to get us out of here," perfectly express her need for freedom and the optimism for a new beginning that many adolescent moms feel while attempting to provide a secure home for their kids. The complex feelings that accompany being a teenage mother are reflected in the song's  sense of vulnerability obligation, and desire for security (Cook & Cameron, 2020).

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Tracy Chapman - Fast Car (Official Music Video)

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Artifact Eleven ~ The Reality of Teen Pregnancy

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Artifact Eleven ~ The Reality of Teen Pregnancy

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This artifact perfectly portrays the social and emotional difficulties that frequently accompany teenage pregnancy. The central figure, a young girl who is pregnant, stands by herself with tears running down her cheeks, signifying emotions of helplessness, humiliation, and loneliness. The intense shame and criticism that many adolescent moms experience from their classmates and society is reflected in the finger-pointing that is going on around them. Furthermore, the speech bubble with symbols denoting harsh language and the two females chatting stand in for the gossip and criticism that can exacerbate emotions of rejection and loneliness (Cook & Cameron, 2020). This artifact emphasizes the social as well as physical and emotional difficulties associated with teen pregnancy, as young moms sometimes encounter harsh criticism rather than support (Cook & Cameron, 2020). The use of this artifact highlights the need for increased empathy, understanding, and support for adolescent moms in order to enable them to deal with the challenges of early parenting without feeling stigmatized by society (Cook & Cameron, 2020).

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Application of Relational Inquiry to Teenage Pregnancy

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Application of Relational Inquiry to Teenage Pregnancy

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Nurses must interact with young moms with empathy, no judgement, and compassion in order to promote relational inquiry in teenage pregnancies (Cook & Cameron, 2020). Developing a connection based on trust makes adolescent moms feel encouraged rather than embarrassed. Nurses can empower young moms to make educated decisions by recognizing the complex emotional, social, and financial issues they encounter and offering tools and support to ensure better health outcomes for both the mother and the infant (Cook & Cameron, 2020).

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attached are two article references to facilitate more discussion about post partum depression

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Podcast for Challenges Associated With Breastfeeding

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Podcast for Challenges Associated With Breastfeeding

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References for Breastfeeding Challenges Section

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References for Breastfeeding Challenges Section

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attached are two article references to help facilitate more discussion about breastfeeding challenges and support

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Podcast for Substance Use During Pregnancy

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Podcast for Substance Use During Pregnancy

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References for Substance Use During Pregnancy Section

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References for Substance Use During Pregnancy Section

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attached are two article references to help facilitate additional discussions about substance use during pregnancy

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References For Teenage Pregnancy Section

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References For Teenage Pregnancy Section

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attached are two article references to help facilitate more discussion about teenage pregnancies

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2001 Podcast and Artifacts References one page of references per topic

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Link To Google Doc for Complete References Lists

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Link To Google Doc for Complete References Lists