A psychobiographical study of Ellen Kuzwayo
- Authors: Arosi, Ziyanda
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Kuzwayo, Ellen , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Life cycle, Human , Women, Black -- South Africa -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9894 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008658 , Kuzwayo, Ellen , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Life cycle, Human , Women, Black -- South Africa -- Social conditions
- Description: The current study is a psychobiography. The subject was chosen through purposive sampling based on the researcher’s personal interest and the remarkable impact this woman had within her society. Ellen Kuzwayo also meets the requirements of a psychobiography in that she is historically well known, inspirational, and her life has been completed. The study applies a qualitative research method in the form of a psychobiography, which aimed to describe Ellen Kuzwayo`s life accordingto Daniel Levinson`s Life Structure Theory of Adult Development. Levinson`s theory divides the lifespan into four developmental eras, each with its own biopsychosocial character. Each era in turn is divided into shorter periods of development. Levinson`s theory was chosenbecause it is specifically relevant to the development of women. The findings of the study indicate that Kuzwayo’s life was consistent with the pattern of development which Levinson (1996) identified. Kuzwayo was relatively successful in resolving the life tasks and transitional periods proposed by Levinson. This research study has given a positive demonstration of the value of development theory to investigate a particular human life. Furthermore, it emphasized the uniqueness of individuals in coping with the challenges of life. As a result it has opened up the possibility of perceiving people and their actions in a different way. Consequently, recommendations are offered in order to extend psychobiographical research on the life of Ellen Kuzwayo.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Arosi, Ziyanda
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Kuzwayo, Ellen , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Life cycle, Human , Women, Black -- South Africa -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9894 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008658 , Kuzwayo, Ellen , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Life cycle, Human , Women, Black -- South Africa -- Social conditions
- Description: The current study is a psychobiography. The subject was chosen through purposive sampling based on the researcher’s personal interest and the remarkable impact this woman had within her society. Ellen Kuzwayo also meets the requirements of a psychobiography in that she is historically well known, inspirational, and her life has been completed. The study applies a qualitative research method in the form of a psychobiography, which aimed to describe Ellen Kuzwayo`s life accordingto Daniel Levinson`s Life Structure Theory of Adult Development. Levinson`s theory divides the lifespan into four developmental eras, each with its own biopsychosocial character. Each era in turn is divided into shorter periods of development. Levinson`s theory was chosenbecause it is specifically relevant to the development of women. The findings of the study indicate that Kuzwayo’s life was consistent with the pattern of development which Levinson (1996) identified. Kuzwayo was relatively successful in resolving the life tasks and transitional periods proposed by Levinson. This research study has given a positive demonstration of the value of development theory to investigate a particular human life. Furthermore, it emphasized the uniqueness of individuals in coping with the challenges of life. As a result it has opened up the possibility of perceiving people and their actions in a different way. Consequently, recommendations are offered in order to extend psychobiographical research on the life of Ellen Kuzwayo.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Functional changes of the vasculature in HIV/AIDS patients on Haart and Haart Naïve HIV participants
- Authors: Awotedu, Kofoworola Olajire
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Cardiovascular system -- Diseases HIV infections -- Treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Ph D
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/185 , vital:21366
- Description: The present study sought to explore the functional changes that occur in the vasculature of HIV positive participants of African origin in Mthatha district of South africa which might lead to increased risk in their cardiovascular system. Available literature shows that arterial stiffness plays an important role in cardiovascular events such as stroke, vasculitis and myocardial infarction. Measurement of (aortic pulse wave velocity; PWV) provides some of the strongest evidence concerning the prognostic significance of large artery stiffening. This study was aimed at investigating the relationship between anthropometry, age, E-Selectin level, cytokine levels, haemodynamic variables, blood counts and blood lipid profile with pulse wave velocity. Some traditional cardiovascular risk factors such as alcohol, and smoking were also taken into account. This was a cross-sectional study comprising of 169 participants (62 males and 107 females). 63 were HIV negative (group A), 54 HIV positive on treatment (group B), and 52 were HIV positive not on treatment (group C). Pulse wave velocity (PWV) was assessed using the Sphygmocor Vx. Statistically, ANOVA was used for variables with normal distribution and non parametric tests were used for variables with skewed distribution. Notable significant differences were seen in the means of the following variables across all the 3 groups. Conclusion: This study showed that HIV infected patients with or without antiretroviral therapy have increase arterial stiffness which is associated with an increased cardiovascular risk. The sphygmocor is an accurate, non invassive and useful tool in the evaluation of arterial stiffness and its use in clinical practice should be encouraged. PWV and the augmentation index (AIx) are the two major non- iv invasive methods of assessing arterial stiffness. Life style modification should be incorporated into the management of HIV patients so as the continuous monitoring of their haematological and lipid profile.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Functional changes of the vasculature in HIV/AIDS patients on Haart and Haart Naïve HIV participants
- Authors: Awotedu, Kofoworola Olajire
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Cardiovascular system -- Diseases HIV infections -- Treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Ph D
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/185 , vital:21366
- Description: The present study sought to explore the functional changes that occur in the vasculature of HIV positive participants of African origin in Mthatha district of South africa which might lead to increased risk in their cardiovascular system. Available literature shows that arterial stiffness plays an important role in cardiovascular events such as stroke, vasculitis and myocardial infarction. Measurement of (aortic pulse wave velocity; PWV) provides some of the strongest evidence concerning the prognostic significance of large artery stiffening. This study was aimed at investigating the relationship between anthropometry, age, E-Selectin level, cytokine levels, haemodynamic variables, blood counts and blood lipid profile with pulse wave velocity. Some traditional cardiovascular risk factors such as alcohol, and smoking were also taken into account. This was a cross-sectional study comprising of 169 participants (62 males and 107 females). 63 were HIV negative (group A), 54 HIV positive on treatment (group B), and 52 were HIV positive not on treatment (group C). Pulse wave velocity (PWV) was assessed using the Sphygmocor Vx. Statistically, ANOVA was used for variables with normal distribution and non parametric tests were used for variables with skewed distribution. Notable significant differences were seen in the means of the following variables across all the 3 groups. Conclusion: This study showed that HIV infected patients with or without antiretroviral therapy have increase arterial stiffness which is associated with an increased cardiovascular risk. The sphygmocor is an accurate, non invassive and useful tool in the evaluation of arterial stiffness and its use in clinical practice should be encouraged. PWV and the augmentation index (AIx) are the two major non- iv invasive methods of assessing arterial stiffness. Life style modification should be incorporated into the management of HIV patients so as the continuous monitoring of their haematological and lipid profile.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Rev James Warren "Jim" Jones: a psychobiographical study
- Authors: Baldwin, Garth Adrian
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Jones, James Warren -- 1931-1978 , Religious leaders -- United States -- Biography , African American religious leaders -- Biography
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9948 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015635
- Description: The purpose of a psychobiography is to describe an individual‟s life while using a psychological theory. James Warren “Jim” Jones was selected through purposive sampling because of his instrumental role in organising the largest mass suicide in recorded USA history. Kernberg‟s (1979; 1985; 2004) object relations theory was used to illuminate his life and personality dynamics, a theory focused on describing the borderline personality organisation. The study employed a qualitative single case study design, and data was analysed according to the principals set out by Yin (1994) as well as Miles and Huberman (1994). Results indicated that Kernberg‟s (1979; 1985; 2004) theory was suitable in shedding light on the life of this infamous historical figure, which resulted in an increased understanding of the application of this psychological theory. Lastly, it contributed towards increasing the limited number of psychobiographical studies conducted in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Baldwin, Garth Adrian
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Jones, James Warren -- 1931-1978 , Religious leaders -- United States -- Biography , African American religious leaders -- Biography
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9948 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015635
- Description: The purpose of a psychobiography is to describe an individual‟s life while using a psychological theory. James Warren “Jim” Jones was selected through purposive sampling because of his instrumental role in organising the largest mass suicide in recorded USA history. Kernberg‟s (1979; 1985; 2004) object relations theory was used to illuminate his life and personality dynamics, a theory focused on describing the borderline personality organisation. The study employed a qualitative single case study design, and data was analysed according to the principals set out by Yin (1994) as well as Miles and Huberman (1994). Results indicated that Kernberg‟s (1979; 1985; 2004) theory was suitable in shedding light on the life of this infamous historical figure, which resulted in an increased understanding of the application of this psychological theory. Lastly, it contributed towards increasing the limited number of psychobiographical studies conducted in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Experiences of professional nurses with regard to accessing information at the point-of-care via mobile-computing devices at a public hospital
- Authors: Benjamin, Valencia
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Information storage and retrieval systems -- Hospitals , Point-of-care testing , Public hospitals -- Medical staff
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10060 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020193
- Description: Mobile computing devices are capable of changing how healthcare is delivered in the future, since they aim to merge and integrate all services into one device that is versatile, customisable, and portable. The aim of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of professional nurses with regard to accessing information at the point-of-care of the patient, in order to develop guidelines that could assist other professional nurses with implementing the mobile computing device for accessing information at the point-of-care of patients. To achieve the purpose of the study, a qualitative, explorative, descriptive, and contextual design was used to conduct this research – to gain an understanding of how the professional nurses experienced accessing information at the point-of-care via mobile computing devices. The study was conducted among the professional nurses employed at the public hospital, who were trained and provided with the mobile computing device for accessing information at the point-of-care for more than two years. In-depth interviewing was conducted to obtain the data. Data analysis was done using Tesch‘s method to make sense out of text and data. Four themes were identified, namely, the professional nurses‘ expression of various experiences regarding the training received; the need for support in implementing the mobile computing device; the accessing of information at the point-of-care as beneficial for educational purposes; and the accessing of information at the point-of-care as beneficial to patient care. Two main guidelines were developed. The study concludes with recommendations made with regard to the areas of nursing practice, education and research. Throughout the study, the researcher abided by the ethical considerations. The aspects of trustworthiness implemented in this study, included dependability, credibility, transferability and confirmability (Holloway & Wheeler, 2010:298).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Benjamin, Valencia
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Information storage and retrieval systems -- Hospitals , Point-of-care testing , Public hospitals -- Medical staff
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10060 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020193
- Description: Mobile computing devices are capable of changing how healthcare is delivered in the future, since they aim to merge and integrate all services into one device that is versatile, customisable, and portable. The aim of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of professional nurses with regard to accessing information at the point-of-care of the patient, in order to develop guidelines that could assist other professional nurses with implementing the mobile computing device for accessing information at the point-of-care of patients. To achieve the purpose of the study, a qualitative, explorative, descriptive, and contextual design was used to conduct this research – to gain an understanding of how the professional nurses experienced accessing information at the point-of-care via mobile computing devices. The study was conducted among the professional nurses employed at the public hospital, who were trained and provided with the mobile computing device for accessing information at the point-of-care for more than two years. In-depth interviewing was conducted to obtain the data. Data analysis was done using Tesch‘s method to make sense out of text and data. Four themes were identified, namely, the professional nurses‘ expression of various experiences regarding the training received; the need for support in implementing the mobile computing device; the accessing of information at the point-of-care as beneficial for educational purposes; and the accessing of information at the point-of-care as beneficial to patient care. Two main guidelines were developed. The study concludes with recommendations made with regard to the areas of nursing practice, education and research. Throughout the study, the researcher abided by the ethical considerations. The aspects of trustworthiness implemented in this study, included dependability, credibility, transferability and confirmability (Holloway & Wheeler, 2010:298).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Barriers to implementation of evidence-based practices in a critical care unit
- Authors: Bowers, Candice Andrea
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Evidence-based medicine , Critical care medicine , Nursing ethics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10048 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013612
- Description: Over the last three decades there has been a greater need for health care practitioners to base their decision on the best available in order to optimise quality and cost-effective patient care. Evidence-based practice necessitates guideline development, education and review in order to achieve improved patient outcomes. However, initiatives that endeavour to disseminate and implement evidence-based practice have faced barriers and opposition. Barriers that might hamper the implementation of evidence-based practice include characteristics of the evidence itself, personal, institutional or organizational factors. The research study explored and described the barriers to implementation of evidence-based practices in a critical care unit. Based on the data analysis, recommendations were made to enhance the implementation of evidence-based practices in the critical care unit. A quantitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design was used to operationalize the research objectives. The target population comprised professional nurses in the critical care unit. Non-probability sampling was used to obtain data by means of a structured self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive data analysis was applied, using a statistical programme and the aid of a statistician. The results are graphically displayed using bar graphs and tables. Recommendations for nursing practice, education and research were made. Ethical principles have been maintained throughout the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Bowers, Candice Andrea
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Evidence-based medicine , Critical care medicine , Nursing ethics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10048 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013612
- Description: Over the last three decades there has been a greater need for health care practitioners to base their decision on the best available in order to optimise quality and cost-effective patient care. Evidence-based practice necessitates guideline development, education and review in order to achieve improved patient outcomes. However, initiatives that endeavour to disseminate and implement evidence-based practice have faced barriers and opposition. Barriers that might hamper the implementation of evidence-based practice include characteristics of the evidence itself, personal, institutional or organizational factors. The research study explored and described the barriers to implementation of evidence-based practices in a critical care unit. Based on the data analysis, recommendations were made to enhance the implementation of evidence-based practices in the critical care unit. A quantitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design was used to operationalize the research objectives. The target population comprised professional nurses in the critical care unit. Non-probability sampling was used to obtain data by means of a structured self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive data analysis was applied, using a statistical programme and the aid of a statistician. The results are graphically displayed using bar graphs and tables. Recommendations for nursing practice, education and research were made. Ethical principles have been maintained throughout the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The effect of 14 weeks of strength training on insulin resistance
- Authors: Cairncross, Joy Claudia
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Insulin resistance , Diabetes -- Exercise therapy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10104 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018276
- Description: Insulin resistance is a precursor to type II diabetes mellitus and in conjunction with dyslipidaemia, hypertension, and obesity, these abnormalities constitute the metabolic syndrome. Insulin resistance usually develops before these other diseases and therefore identifying and successfully treating insulin resistant patients may have potentially great preventive value. Insulin resistance, obesity, and subsequently type II diabetes mellitus have increased dramatically and have reached epidemic proportions. The incidence of diabetes, and in particular type II diabetes mellitus, is increasing in developing countries and throughout the world and this is mainly as a result of increasingly sedentary lifestyle and obesity in an aging population. The specific aim of this study was to explore and describe the effect of a 14-week strength-based resistance training programme on insulin resistance amongst individuals aged 25 to 68 years, who are pre-diabetic, have T2DM, and/or are overweight. The research approach used in this investigation was explorative, experimental, and quantitative in nature. The quasi-experimental design consisted of a pre-test and post-test for an experimental and comparison group who were chosen through convenience and snowball sampling. A total of 30 participants were involved in this study, 15 participants in each group. The following dependent variables were selected, namely: body weight; BMI; body composition; waist-to-hip ratio; total cholesterol levels; triglyceride levels; HOMA-IR; and muscle strength for upper and lower body. Pre-and post-test analysis was performed at the Biokinetics and Sport Science Unit, located at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU). Blood samples of the participants were drawn by nurses at the Health Clinic at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University and these blood plasma samples were stored at the Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry at NMMU for later analysis of glucose and insulin. The experimental group trained three times per week for a period of fourteen weeks, performing strength training exercises with progressive increments in the intensity of the exercise. The control group remained sedentary throughout the intervention period. Analysis of the data was conducted utilizing descriptive and inferential statistics. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used as a hypothesis-testing procedure to evaluate the mean differences. The following dependent variables showed a decrease in mean values: body weight, body mass index, body fat percentage, waist minimum, cholesterol and insulin. However these differences in results were not practically and statistically significant. The following dependent variables showed an increase in mean values: hip maximum, arm relaxed, arm flexed, thigh circumference, glucose and HOMA-IR. However these results were not practically and statistically significant. The mean differences in the plasma insulin level, pre- to post-test, between both groups indicated that a significant difference (t = -1.77, p = 0.044) existed between them. Cohen‟s d revealed a value of 0.64, which indicates moderate practical significance. The only dependent variable which showed both statistical and practical significance was sum of skinfolds. The findings for sum of skinfolds revealed that the mean differences, from pre- to post-test, between both groups indicated that a significant difference (t = -2.30, p = 0.015) existed between them. Cohen‟s d revealed a value of 0.84, which indicated a large practical significance. Although the sample size was too small to indicate generalisations to the diabetic population as a whole, strength training should be furthermore explored as an alternative and successful modality in the existing range of options available to the health and exercise professional to address the needs of the person with T2DM. The researcher proposed that a bigger sample size be used for the experimental and control group, the intervention period increased as well as various differences related to frequency, intensity and duration of strength training could possibly result in significant changes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Cairncross, Joy Claudia
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Insulin resistance , Diabetes -- Exercise therapy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10104 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018276
- Description: Insulin resistance is a precursor to type II diabetes mellitus and in conjunction with dyslipidaemia, hypertension, and obesity, these abnormalities constitute the metabolic syndrome. Insulin resistance usually develops before these other diseases and therefore identifying and successfully treating insulin resistant patients may have potentially great preventive value. Insulin resistance, obesity, and subsequently type II diabetes mellitus have increased dramatically and have reached epidemic proportions. The incidence of diabetes, and in particular type II diabetes mellitus, is increasing in developing countries and throughout the world and this is mainly as a result of increasingly sedentary lifestyle and obesity in an aging population. The specific aim of this study was to explore and describe the effect of a 14-week strength-based resistance training programme on insulin resistance amongst individuals aged 25 to 68 years, who are pre-diabetic, have T2DM, and/or are overweight. The research approach used in this investigation was explorative, experimental, and quantitative in nature. The quasi-experimental design consisted of a pre-test and post-test for an experimental and comparison group who were chosen through convenience and snowball sampling. A total of 30 participants were involved in this study, 15 participants in each group. The following dependent variables were selected, namely: body weight; BMI; body composition; waist-to-hip ratio; total cholesterol levels; triglyceride levels; HOMA-IR; and muscle strength for upper and lower body. Pre-and post-test analysis was performed at the Biokinetics and Sport Science Unit, located at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU). Blood samples of the participants were drawn by nurses at the Health Clinic at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University and these blood plasma samples were stored at the Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry at NMMU for later analysis of glucose and insulin. The experimental group trained three times per week for a period of fourteen weeks, performing strength training exercises with progressive increments in the intensity of the exercise. The control group remained sedentary throughout the intervention period. Analysis of the data was conducted utilizing descriptive and inferential statistics. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used as a hypothesis-testing procedure to evaluate the mean differences. The following dependent variables showed a decrease in mean values: body weight, body mass index, body fat percentage, waist minimum, cholesterol and insulin. However these differences in results were not practically and statistically significant. The following dependent variables showed an increase in mean values: hip maximum, arm relaxed, arm flexed, thigh circumference, glucose and HOMA-IR. However these results were not practically and statistically significant. The mean differences in the plasma insulin level, pre- to post-test, between both groups indicated that a significant difference (t = -1.77, p = 0.044) existed between them. Cohen‟s d revealed a value of 0.64, which indicates moderate practical significance. The only dependent variable which showed both statistical and practical significance was sum of skinfolds. The findings for sum of skinfolds revealed that the mean differences, from pre- to post-test, between both groups indicated that a significant difference (t = -2.30, p = 0.015) existed between them. Cohen‟s d revealed a value of 0.84, which indicated a large practical significance. Although the sample size was too small to indicate generalisations to the diabetic population as a whole, strength training should be furthermore explored as an alternative and successful modality in the existing range of options available to the health and exercise professional to address the needs of the person with T2DM. The researcher proposed that a bigger sample size be used for the experimental and control group, the intervention period increased as well as various differences related to frequency, intensity and duration of strength training could possibly result in significant changes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The lived experiences of professional nurses with regards to end-of-life issues in the Intensive Care Unit
- Authors: Clifford, Ilzé
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Intensive care units , Death
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10055 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018572
- Description: Professional nurses working in an intensive care unit (ICU) are faced with the death of critically ill patients frequently. Modern day medicine and technology have made it possible for advanced life-sustaining measures to be implemented on patients who, without medical intervention, would otherwise not have survived. The question is raised: is modern technology preserving life and prolonging the dying process, or is it in the best interest of the patient for treatment to be withdrawn? Nurses, caring for these patients and their families, are practicing at the bedside of these dying patients and are thus often faced with end-of-life issues, particularly withdrawal of treatment. The primary functions of critical care nurses are toward their patients. Physicians are responsible for making decisions regarding withdrawal of treatment. However, the nurses in the ICU are responsible for implementing the decisions made; sometimes contradicting what they believe in. The experience of end-of-life issues, namely withdrawal of treatment, is a cause of distress for the professional nurse. Little research has been done on how the ICU nurses deal with end-of-life issues and what support structures are required to assist nurses in dealing with end-of-life issues (Hov, Hedelin & Athlin, 2006:204) The objectives of the study were to explore and describe the professional nurses‟ lived experiences of end-of-life issues in the intensive care unit. The study aimed to make recommendations regarding support strategies to assist professional nurses in dealing with end-of-life issues in the intensive care unit. The researcher has selected a qualitative research approach with an explorative, descriptive and contextual design in order to conduct the study. Data was collected by means of semi-structured interviews. Data was analysed using the steps as illustrated by Tesch‟s method. Ethical principles were maintained throughout the research study. The findings of this study are to be presented in a journal publication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Clifford, Ilzé
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Intensive care units , Death
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10055 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018572
- Description: Professional nurses working in an intensive care unit (ICU) are faced with the death of critically ill patients frequently. Modern day medicine and technology have made it possible for advanced life-sustaining measures to be implemented on patients who, without medical intervention, would otherwise not have survived. The question is raised: is modern technology preserving life and prolonging the dying process, or is it in the best interest of the patient for treatment to be withdrawn? Nurses, caring for these patients and their families, are practicing at the bedside of these dying patients and are thus often faced with end-of-life issues, particularly withdrawal of treatment. The primary functions of critical care nurses are toward their patients. Physicians are responsible for making decisions regarding withdrawal of treatment. However, the nurses in the ICU are responsible for implementing the decisions made; sometimes contradicting what they believe in. The experience of end-of-life issues, namely withdrawal of treatment, is a cause of distress for the professional nurse. Little research has been done on how the ICU nurses deal with end-of-life issues and what support structures are required to assist nurses in dealing with end-of-life issues (Hov, Hedelin & Athlin, 2006:204) The objectives of the study were to explore and describe the professional nurses‟ lived experiences of end-of-life issues in the intensive care unit. The study aimed to make recommendations regarding support strategies to assist professional nurses in dealing with end-of-life issues in the intensive care unit. The researcher has selected a qualitative research approach with an explorative, descriptive and contextual design in order to conduct the study. Data was collected by means of semi-structured interviews. Data was analysed using the steps as illustrated by Tesch‟s method. Ethical principles were maintained throughout the research study. The findings of this study are to be presented in a journal publication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The redemptive life story of Glenda Watson-Kahlenberg: a psychobiography
- Authors: Connelly, Ruth Ellen
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Watson-Kahlenberg, Glenda -- Psychology , Redemption , Meaning (Psychology) , Well-being , Forgiveness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9956 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019690
- Description: This psychobiography is focused on the life of Glenda Watson-Kahlenberg, whose life history epitomises the redemptive theme of triumph over tragedy. A phenomenological approach to the study allowed the researcher to observe the participant‟s lived experience through the theoretical lens of Frankl‟s conceptualization of a meaningful and full existence. A holistic perspective of factors contributing to redemption was accommodated by the Biopsychosocial-spiritual Model. The aim of this longitudinal revelatory study was to illuminate the process of redemption in a life, which leads to restoration and wholeness. This study breaks with traditional psychobiography – in that a life in progress has been selected; and personality development is not the key focus. This psychobiographical undertaking was anchored in qualitative research in the form of a single case study. Four types of triangulation were utilized, namely: data, investigators, theory and methodological triangulation. In addition, Alexander‟s identifiers of saliency, Miles and Huberman‟s data-management guidelines, Schultz‟s prototypical scenes, and Guba‟s criteria for trustworthiness, guided the methodology to ensure reliable data extraction and interpretation. The present researcher was in search of a deeper understanding of the enabling factors facilitating a restorative process in a life that was challenged by setbacks. Given the increasing pressures facing individuals in this modern era, the redemptive theme holds particular relevance, and was graphically demonstrated in the life of the participant who experienced trauma, widowhood, divorce, single parenthood, and a spate of medical and psychological setbacks. The findings suggest that the mental health clinician‟s utilisation of Frankl‟s conceptualisation of meaning in the most challenging circumstances, proffers itself as an all-purpose life-tool which enables individuals to overcome their challenges. The study demonstrated that gaining meaning in life is inextricably tied to an implicit legacy-oriented worldview. Of significance, is the role of forgiveness which emerged as the central redemptive catalyst. In this study, the resolution of past hurts through forgiveness, and the search for meaning, merge, forming an arterial theme in the life story of the participant. The dual impact of these factors not only reversed contaminated life-scripts, it also birthed a new calling in life which set the participant on a generative life course. The findings related to a redemptive life not only confirms existing theory, but also adds perspectives not previously considered. In addition, the findings related to the role of forgiveness has positive implications for the individual‟s physical and psychological wellbeing. Greater intentionality on the part of therapists to thread forgiveness into their practice, remains invitational in the light of the eugraphic impact demonstrated in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Connelly, Ruth Ellen
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Watson-Kahlenberg, Glenda -- Psychology , Redemption , Meaning (Psychology) , Well-being , Forgiveness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9956 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019690
- Description: This psychobiography is focused on the life of Glenda Watson-Kahlenberg, whose life history epitomises the redemptive theme of triumph over tragedy. A phenomenological approach to the study allowed the researcher to observe the participant‟s lived experience through the theoretical lens of Frankl‟s conceptualization of a meaningful and full existence. A holistic perspective of factors contributing to redemption was accommodated by the Biopsychosocial-spiritual Model. The aim of this longitudinal revelatory study was to illuminate the process of redemption in a life, which leads to restoration and wholeness. This study breaks with traditional psychobiography – in that a life in progress has been selected; and personality development is not the key focus. This psychobiographical undertaking was anchored in qualitative research in the form of a single case study. Four types of triangulation were utilized, namely: data, investigators, theory and methodological triangulation. In addition, Alexander‟s identifiers of saliency, Miles and Huberman‟s data-management guidelines, Schultz‟s prototypical scenes, and Guba‟s criteria for trustworthiness, guided the methodology to ensure reliable data extraction and interpretation. The present researcher was in search of a deeper understanding of the enabling factors facilitating a restorative process in a life that was challenged by setbacks. Given the increasing pressures facing individuals in this modern era, the redemptive theme holds particular relevance, and was graphically demonstrated in the life of the participant who experienced trauma, widowhood, divorce, single parenthood, and a spate of medical and psychological setbacks. The findings suggest that the mental health clinician‟s utilisation of Frankl‟s conceptualisation of meaning in the most challenging circumstances, proffers itself as an all-purpose life-tool which enables individuals to overcome their challenges. The study demonstrated that gaining meaning in life is inextricably tied to an implicit legacy-oriented worldview. Of significance, is the role of forgiveness which emerged as the central redemptive catalyst. In this study, the resolution of past hurts through forgiveness, and the search for meaning, merge, forming an arterial theme in the life story of the participant. The dual impact of these factors not only reversed contaminated life-scripts, it also birthed a new calling in life which set the participant on a generative life course. The findings related to a redemptive life not only confirms existing theory, but also adds perspectives not previously considered. In addition, the findings related to the role of forgiveness has positive implications for the individual‟s physical and psychological wellbeing. Greater intentionality on the part of therapists to thread forgiveness into their practice, remains invitational in the light of the eugraphic impact demonstrated in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The effect of using a computer-based exploration tool on children's career development learning
- Authors: Crause, Ewald
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Vocational guidance -- Computer network resources , Career development -- Computer network resources
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9947 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015020
- Description: Historically the process of career development was thought of as occurring in adolescence and adulthood; however, the renewed emphasis on lifelong career development has led to a greater focus on the career developmental stage of childhood. The present research focused on the development and trialling of a research-based computerised career exploration tool, Growing-up: Children Building Careers™ (GCBC™) that can be used for early intervention in children‘s career development. The integration of developmental considerations within a career developmental context is of paramount importance, considering that child and career developmental theories share certain basic foundational principles such as the dual recognition of identifiable life stages and the resolution or accomplishment of associated tasks. The focus of the research is to provide access to a research-based tool that can assist learners with developing age appropriate career developmental skills. As the overview of education policy and existing programs will show, there are challenges in providing access to and improving the nature, level, and quality of career development services. Gaps in access to career development learning are particularly evident at the elementary education level. Furthermore it is clear that learners need to be at the centre of a radical rethink of careers services within a lifelong learning framework in order to ensure access to navigational tools throughout a lifetime of work and study transitions. Digital environments, such as the GCBC™, are tools that broaden and extend learning possibilities for children and appropriately designed digital environments can provide a vehicle that can take children further than they might travel unassisted. The research is divided into five phases and includes eight to ten year old children as participants. Phase one focused on the program design and pilot study (ensuring content validity and age-appropriate language use), while phases two to five focused on the fieldwork (i.e., pre –test, program exposure, post-test, and focus group discussions). The researcher made use of a mixed research design that combines both quantitative and qualitative research methods. The total sample consisted of 146 children between the ages of eight to ten years old. The control group had 72 children and the experimental group 74 children with a mean age of 8.74 years (SD = 0.63) for the total sample. The quantitative data collection entailed a pre-and post-test design with learners‘ career development measured with the Childhood Career Development Scale (CCDS) and their career awareness with the Revised Career Awareness Survey (RCAS). Qualitative data was collected in the form of two focus group discussions, which included a small sample of children from the experimental group, as well as insights gained from educators following the GCBC™ fieldwork. The quantitative statistical analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics which allowed the researcher to not only describe the research findings, but to confirm the effectiveness of the GCBC™ as an intentional career development learning program. Furthermore, the responses of the children and educators who participated in or witnessed the facilitation of the GCBC™ provided support for the GCBC™ as a meaningful career learning experience which can be successfully implemented in educational settings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Crause, Ewald
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Vocational guidance -- Computer network resources , Career development -- Computer network resources
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9947 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015020
- Description: Historically the process of career development was thought of as occurring in adolescence and adulthood; however, the renewed emphasis on lifelong career development has led to a greater focus on the career developmental stage of childhood. The present research focused on the development and trialling of a research-based computerised career exploration tool, Growing-up: Children Building Careers™ (GCBC™) that can be used for early intervention in children‘s career development. The integration of developmental considerations within a career developmental context is of paramount importance, considering that child and career developmental theories share certain basic foundational principles such as the dual recognition of identifiable life stages and the resolution or accomplishment of associated tasks. The focus of the research is to provide access to a research-based tool that can assist learners with developing age appropriate career developmental skills. As the overview of education policy and existing programs will show, there are challenges in providing access to and improving the nature, level, and quality of career development services. Gaps in access to career development learning are particularly evident at the elementary education level. Furthermore it is clear that learners need to be at the centre of a radical rethink of careers services within a lifelong learning framework in order to ensure access to navigational tools throughout a lifetime of work and study transitions. Digital environments, such as the GCBC™, are tools that broaden and extend learning possibilities for children and appropriately designed digital environments can provide a vehicle that can take children further than they might travel unassisted. The research is divided into five phases and includes eight to ten year old children as participants. Phase one focused on the program design and pilot study (ensuring content validity and age-appropriate language use), while phases two to five focused on the fieldwork (i.e., pre –test, program exposure, post-test, and focus group discussions). The researcher made use of a mixed research design that combines both quantitative and qualitative research methods. The total sample consisted of 146 children between the ages of eight to ten years old. The control group had 72 children and the experimental group 74 children with a mean age of 8.74 years (SD = 0.63) for the total sample. The quantitative data collection entailed a pre-and post-test design with learners‘ career development measured with the Childhood Career Development Scale (CCDS) and their career awareness with the Revised Career Awareness Survey (RCAS). Qualitative data was collected in the form of two focus group discussions, which included a small sample of children from the experimental group, as well as insights gained from educators following the GCBC™ fieldwork. The quantitative statistical analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics which allowed the researcher to not only describe the research findings, but to confirm the effectiveness of the GCBC™ as an intentional career development learning program. Furthermore, the responses of the children and educators who participated in or witnessed the facilitation of the GCBC™ provided support for the GCBC™ as a meaningful career learning experience which can be successfully implemented in educational settings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
A psychobiographical study of William Wilberforce
- Authors: Daubermann, Bettina Pamela
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Personality development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9966 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020857 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021085
- Description: The proposed study is of a psychobiographical nature and employs a qualitative research approach. The individual that forms the subject of this study is William Wilberforce. A social activist most of his life, Wilberforce is best known for his voice and works behind the abolition of the slave trade in 1807 and the abolition of slavery in 1833. His ambitious nature, social eloquence and verbal intellect resulted in him being elected as a member of parliament in the House of Commons in England during the period 1780 to 1825. Transformed by the Christian faith in 1885, Wilberforce came to the realization he had received a calling from God to speak up for those who could not with a specific task set out before him which was to abolish slavery. It was the purpose of the present research to explore and describe Wilberforce’s psychological development across his life-span according to Carl Rogers’ (1961) personality theory of optimal development. Salient aspects of Wilberforce’s life were related and compared to components of the theory so as to explore and describe the degree of optimal development that Wilberforce reached at different points in his life and whether he could be described as a fully functioning person. According to Rogers’ theory William Wilberforce was chosen as the research subject for his historical contribution to mankind by his devotion to the moral enhancement of his country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Daubermann, Bettina Pamela
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Personality development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9966 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020857 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021085
- Description: The proposed study is of a psychobiographical nature and employs a qualitative research approach. The individual that forms the subject of this study is William Wilberforce. A social activist most of his life, Wilberforce is best known for his voice and works behind the abolition of the slave trade in 1807 and the abolition of slavery in 1833. His ambitious nature, social eloquence and verbal intellect resulted in him being elected as a member of parliament in the House of Commons in England during the period 1780 to 1825. Transformed by the Christian faith in 1885, Wilberforce came to the realization he had received a calling from God to speak up for those who could not with a specific task set out before him which was to abolish slavery. It was the purpose of the present research to explore and describe Wilberforce’s psychological development across his life-span according to Carl Rogers’ (1961) personality theory of optimal development. Salient aspects of Wilberforce’s life were related and compared to components of the theory so as to explore and describe the degree of optimal development that Wilberforce reached at different points in his life and whether he could be described as a fully functioning person. According to Rogers’ theory William Wilberforce was chosen as the research subject for his historical contribution to mankind by his devotion to the moral enhancement of his country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
An intervention study to develop a male circumcision health promotion programme at Libode Rural Communities in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Douglas, Mbuyiselo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Circumcision Health promotion Penis surgery South Africa -- Libode
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Ph D
- Identifier: vital:18476 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007187
- Description: The purpose of this study was to develop an intervention health promotion programme to prevent circumcision related health problem such as sepsis, botched circumcision, dehydration, penile amputation and reduce the number of deaths. The intervention programme was aimed at promoting a safe male circumcision practice affecting boys aged 12-18 years at Libode rural communities in Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. This was achieved through a mixed method design using both quantitative and qualitative approaches utilizing sequential transformative strategy to allow for the convergence of multiple perspectives of the traditional male circumcision in Libode. The study was conducted in 22 schools of the rural communities of Libode because most of the participants are still attending school. Frequencies and percentages were used to analyse the quantitative data, utilizing the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). A total of 1036 participants, AmaXhosa circumcised young men (abafana) and uncircumcised boys (amakhwenkwe) participated in the cross-sectional survey, quantitative phase of the study. Qualitative phase of this study was composed of 7 focus group discussions with a total of 84 circumcised and uncircumcised male participants and 10 key informants’ interviews were conducted. In analysis qualitative data, the researcher found the most descriptive words for each topic and turned them into categories or sub-themes. Topics that related to each other were then grouped in order to reduce the number of categories and to create themes. The similar categories of data were grouped and analysed using Tesch’s method. Findings indicated that traditional circumcision is performed during winter and summer holidays in order to cater for the boys who are attending schools. The circumcision age at Libode ranges from 12 and 18 years of age which is against the Health Standards in Traditional Circumcision Act (Act No. 6 of 2001). Although the participants were aware of the complications of male circumcision in Libode, there was a high preference for traditional circumcision (92.3% of participants) to hospital circumcision. The participants were of the view that the benefits of traditional circumcision outweigh the complications or challenges related to traditional circumcision. They wanted to be socially accepted and wanted to learn about manhood values in the traditional circumcision which are values that cannot be achieved through the hospital based circumcision. As male circumcision initiation is seasonal and the intervention programme needed to be approved by different stakeholders, the testing of intervention programme could not happen before the programme was approved by all the stakeholders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Douglas, Mbuyiselo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Circumcision Health promotion Penis surgery South Africa -- Libode
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Ph D
- Identifier: vital:18476 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007187
- Description: The purpose of this study was to develop an intervention health promotion programme to prevent circumcision related health problem such as sepsis, botched circumcision, dehydration, penile amputation and reduce the number of deaths. The intervention programme was aimed at promoting a safe male circumcision practice affecting boys aged 12-18 years at Libode rural communities in Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. This was achieved through a mixed method design using both quantitative and qualitative approaches utilizing sequential transformative strategy to allow for the convergence of multiple perspectives of the traditional male circumcision in Libode. The study was conducted in 22 schools of the rural communities of Libode because most of the participants are still attending school. Frequencies and percentages were used to analyse the quantitative data, utilizing the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). A total of 1036 participants, AmaXhosa circumcised young men (abafana) and uncircumcised boys (amakhwenkwe) participated in the cross-sectional survey, quantitative phase of the study. Qualitative phase of this study was composed of 7 focus group discussions with a total of 84 circumcised and uncircumcised male participants and 10 key informants’ interviews were conducted. In analysis qualitative data, the researcher found the most descriptive words for each topic and turned them into categories or sub-themes. Topics that related to each other were then grouped in order to reduce the number of categories and to create themes. The similar categories of data were grouped and analysed using Tesch’s method. Findings indicated that traditional circumcision is performed during winter and summer holidays in order to cater for the boys who are attending schools. The circumcision age at Libode ranges from 12 and 18 years of age which is against the Health Standards in Traditional Circumcision Act (Act No. 6 of 2001). Although the participants were aware of the complications of male circumcision in Libode, there was a high preference for traditional circumcision (92.3% of participants) to hospital circumcision. The participants were of the view that the benefits of traditional circumcision outweigh the complications or challenges related to traditional circumcision. They wanted to be socially accepted and wanted to learn about manhood values in the traditional circumcision which are values that cannot be achieved through the hospital based circumcision. As male circumcision initiation is seasonal and the intervention programme needed to be approved by different stakeholders, the testing of intervention programme could not happen before the programme was approved by all the stakeholders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Standards to facilitate optimal experiences of short-term study abroad nursing students at a higher education institution
- Authors: Du Rand, Sussara Maria
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Nursing -- Study and teaching -- United States , Transcultural nursing , Nursing -- Cross-cultural studies , Foreign study , Nursing students
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10066 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020659
- Description: Advances in technology have made globalization and internationalization a reality in the world. National borders are becoming more permeable and migration of goods, services, and health care workers takes place more readily. Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) have become competitors and vendors in the global knowledge economy and are expected to develop job seekers that are responsible and engaged global citizens and employees. Offering study abroad programmes is one of the ways that HEIs achieve this goal. It is estimated that in 2010, 4.7 million people studied abroad (OECD, 2012:360), and it is anticipated that this number will grow to 15 million by the year 2025 (Altbach & Knight, 2006:9). South Africa is emerging as a regional hub for study and research in sub-Saharan Africa (UNESCO: 2012b). Many organizations that train nurses are internationalizing their curriculum which effectively means that Schools of Nursing are seeking placement for students to study, gain insight into other cultures and practices, and to gain clinical experience in other countries. Students, the customers of the Higher Education Institutions, often pay large sums of money to undertake these study abroad programmes and therefore expect good quality learning experiences in return. The aim of this qualitative, contextual, exploratory, and descriptive study was to explore and describe the expectations and experiences of international nursing students and faculty members at a Higher Educational Institution in South Africa in order to develop standards that will enable HEIs to optimize the experiences of short-term study abroad nursing students. An in-depth contextual investigation was conducted on globalization and internationalization, as well as the higher education and health systems of three countries to understand the context of the study abroad programmes. Qualitative data was gathered from students and faculty members using focus groups and individual interviews to establish their expectations and experiences of the programme. Thematic synthesis was carried out on the contextual data and the qualitative data. Thereafter, thematic synthesis analysis was conducted using both sets of results to develop standards that can be used to optimize the experience of short-term study abroad nursing students at a HEI. A total of 35 standards were developed around the following main themes: the objectives of study abroad programmes should be stated clearly before arrival and include the expectations of the global, national, and local communities, the higher education institution and the staff and students; study abroad programmes should be managed in an ethical manner and in an enabling environment, as part of their strategic goals and plans of a HEI; students should be exposed to a variety of experiences and differences between the sending and hosting countries during their study abroad programmes; Standards to Facilitate Optimal Experiences of Short-term Study Abroad Nursing Students at a HEI; study abroad programmes should be evaluated at different intervals and levels to ensure quality of the programmes and to ensure that the objectives/outcomes are met. A limitation of the study was the sampling of the clinical mentors which did not include representatives from the overseas universities. It is recommended that the standards that were developed in this study be introduced and tested in HEIs and that more research be conducted on different levels and groups with regard to study abroad programmes in future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Du Rand, Sussara Maria
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Nursing -- Study and teaching -- United States , Transcultural nursing , Nursing -- Cross-cultural studies , Foreign study , Nursing students
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10066 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020659
- Description: Advances in technology have made globalization and internationalization a reality in the world. National borders are becoming more permeable and migration of goods, services, and health care workers takes place more readily. Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) have become competitors and vendors in the global knowledge economy and are expected to develop job seekers that are responsible and engaged global citizens and employees. Offering study abroad programmes is one of the ways that HEIs achieve this goal. It is estimated that in 2010, 4.7 million people studied abroad (OECD, 2012:360), and it is anticipated that this number will grow to 15 million by the year 2025 (Altbach & Knight, 2006:9). South Africa is emerging as a regional hub for study and research in sub-Saharan Africa (UNESCO: 2012b). Many organizations that train nurses are internationalizing their curriculum which effectively means that Schools of Nursing are seeking placement for students to study, gain insight into other cultures and practices, and to gain clinical experience in other countries. Students, the customers of the Higher Education Institutions, often pay large sums of money to undertake these study abroad programmes and therefore expect good quality learning experiences in return. The aim of this qualitative, contextual, exploratory, and descriptive study was to explore and describe the expectations and experiences of international nursing students and faculty members at a Higher Educational Institution in South Africa in order to develop standards that will enable HEIs to optimize the experiences of short-term study abroad nursing students. An in-depth contextual investigation was conducted on globalization and internationalization, as well as the higher education and health systems of three countries to understand the context of the study abroad programmes. Qualitative data was gathered from students and faculty members using focus groups and individual interviews to establish their expectations and experiences of the programme. Thematic synthesis was carried out on the contextual data and the qualitative data. Thereafter, thematic synthesis analysis was conducted using both sets of results to develop standards that can be used to optimize the experience of short-term study abroad nursing students at a HEI. A total of 35 standards were developed around the following main themes: the objectives of study abroad programmes should be stated clearly before arrival and include the expectations of the global, national, and local communities, the higher education institution and the staff and students; study abroad programmes should be managed in an ethical manner and in an enabling environment, as part of their strategic goals and plans of a HEI; students should be exposed to a variety of experiences and differences between the sending and hosting countries during their study abroad programmes; Standards to Facilitate Optimal Experiences of Short-term Study Abroad Nursing Students at a HEI; study abroad programmes should be evaluated at different intervals and levels to ensure quality of the programmes and to ensure that the objectives/outcomes are met. A limitation of the study was the sampling of the clinical mentors which did not include representatives from the overseas universities. It is recommended that the standards that were developed in this study be introduced and tested in HEIs and that more research be conducted on different levels and groups with regard to study abroad programmes in future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Endotracheal tube verification in the mechanically ventilated patient in a critical care unit
- Authors: Fataar, Danielle
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Respirators (Medical equipment) , Critical care medicine , Intensive care units
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10020 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008057 , Respirators (Medical equipment) , Critical care medicine , Intensive care units
- Description: Critically ill patients often require assistance by means of intubation and mechanical ventilation to support their spontaneous breathing if they are unable to maintain it. Mechanical ventilation is one of the most commonly used treatment modalities in the care of the critically ill patient and up to 90% of patients world-wide require mechanical ventilation during some or most parts of their stay in critical care units Management of a patient’s airway is a critical part of patient care both in and out of hospital. Although there are many methods used in verifying the correct placement of the endotracheal tube, the need and ability to verify placement of an endotracheal tube correctly is of utmost importance, because many complications can occur should the tube be incorrectly placed. Since unrecognized oesophageal intubation can have many disastrous effects on patients, various methods for verifying correct endotracheal tube placement have been developed and considered. Some of these methods include direct visualization, end-tidal carbon dioxide measurement and oesophageal detector devices. This research study aimed to explore and describe the existing literature on the verification of endotracheal tubes in the mechanically ventilated patient in the critical- care unit. A systematic review was done in order to operationalize the primary objective. Furthermore, based on the literature collected from the systematic review, recommendations for the verification of the endotracheal tube in the mechanically ventilated patient in the critical care unit were made. Ethical considerations were maintained throughout the study and the quality of the systematic review was ensured by performing a critical appraisal of the evidence found.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Fataar, Danielle
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Respirators (Medical equipment) , Critical care medicine , Intensive care units
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10020 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008057 , Respirators (Medical equipment) , Critical care medicine , Intensive care units
- Description: Critically ill patients often require assistance by means of intubation and mechanical ventilation to support their spontaneous breathing if they are unable to maintain it. Mechanical ventilation is one of the most commonly used treatment modalities in the care of the critically ill patient and up to 90% of patients world-wide require mechanical ventilation during some or most parts of their stay in critical care units Management of a patient’s airway is a critical part of patient care both in and out of hospital. Although there are many methods used in verifying the correct placement of the endotracheal tube, the need and ability to verify placement of an endotracheal tube correctly is of utmost importance, because many complications can occur should the tube be incorrectly placed. Since unrecognized oesophageal intubation can have many disastrous effects on patients, various methods for verifying correct endotracheal tube placement have been developed and considered. Some of these methods include direct visualization, end-tidal carbon dioxide measurement and oesophageal detector devices. This research study aimed to explore and describe the existing literature on the verification of endotracheal tubes in the mechanically ventilated patient in the critical- care unit. A systematic review was done in order to operationalize the primary objective. Furthermore, based on the literature collected from the systematic review, recommendations for the verification of the endotracheal tube in the mechanically ventilated patient in the critical care unit were made. Ethical considerations were maintained throughout the study and the quality of the systematic review was ensured by performing a critical appraisal of the evidence found.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Strategies to provide holistic care and support to children who are AIDS orphans living in township communities
- Authors: Frood, Sharron Louise
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Children of AIDS patients -- Care -- South Africa , Orphans -- Care -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10064 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020655
- Description: The human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune-deficiency syndrome pandemic (HIV/AIDS) continues to increase in prevalence worldwide, particularly in South Africa. “AIDS, (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), has devastated the social and economic fabric of African societies, made orphans of a whole generation of children and become the epicentre of the HIV/AIDS pandemic” (Fassin, 2007: 76). Like the virus itself, the AIDS crisis mutates rapidly. Children who are AIDS orphans living in South Africa, as in other African countries, suffer from recurrent psychological trauma. It starts with the illness and death of their parents and is followed by cycles of poverty, malnutrition, stigma, exploitation, sickness and often sexual abuse. The figures concerning those affected, which are staggering, offer various predictions regarding the number of orphans left in the wake of the pandemic. Between 1990 and 2003, the number of orphaned children rose from fewer than 1 million to more than 12 million in sub-Saharan Africa (UNICEF, 2005: 68). South Africa is severely affected by the AIDS pandemic, with the largest number of HIV infections in the world, a total of 5.7 million (RSA, 2010: 10), affecting approximately 3.2 million women and 280 000 children aged from 0 to14 years. There is a significant variation in HIV prevalence per province, with the Eastern Cape (EC) reportedly having an average prevalence rate of 28 percent. Hence South Africa is likely to be the country with highest percentage of children orphaned by AIDS within its population. Orphanhood is a major consequence of the AIDS pandemic in South Africa with an estimated 2.2 million AIDS-orphaned children, 11,188 per 100,000 by 2015. Most children who are AIDS orphans living in township communities live predominantly uncared for and unsupported. Therefore the purpose of this research study was to develop strategies to provide care and support to children who are AIDS orphans living in township communities. To achieve the purpose of this research study, a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual design was used by the researcher to gain insight from health and social care practitioners who render care and support to children who are AIDS orphans living in these communities. The data from in-depth interviews with the health and social care practitoners was used by the researcher to develop strategies to provide care and support to children who are AIDS orphans living in township communities. The study comprised the following four phases: Phase One: During this phase, the researcher will present an overview of the current legislative framework policies at an international, national and provincial level, regarding the the rights of children living in South Africa. Phase Two: During this phase data from two research populations were collected and analysed. As the research process of this study dealt with two groups of participants, namely in group one health care practitioners and group two comprised social workers and psychologists, who work in the township communities to provide care and support to children who are AIDS orphans living in these communities. The researcher discussed each group separately in the discussion of phase two of the study. Phase Three: Comprised the themes identified in the data gathered from the transcribed in-depth interviews, the field notes as well as the reflective journals were cross-validated to ensure trustworthiness of the data which was then organised into a conceptual framework. The conceptual framework was used to clarify the relationships of the concepts and the themes identified during the research process and also used to link the gathered data to previously established models and theories (Schneider, 2004: 133). Phase Four: The last phase of the research design, focused on the development of the “Steps of progression strategies” to provide holistic care and support to children who are AIDS orphans living in township communities. This was done making use of the themes identified during data analysis and the literature sources used throughout this research process. The evaluation criteria of Chinn and Kramer (2008: 237-248) were used to evaluate the strategies. It is therefore concluded that the researcher succeeded in achieving the purpose of this study because strategies which were understandable, clear, simple, applicable and significant to nursing practice have been developed for use by the Department of Health and Department of Social Development as well as primary health and social care practitioners to provide holistic care and support to children who are AIDS orphans living in township communities in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Frood, Sharron Louise
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Children of AIDS patients -- Care -- South Africa , Orphans -- Care -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10064 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020655
- Description: The human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune-deficiency syndrome pandemic (HIV/AIDS) continues to increase in prevalence worldwide, particularly in South Africa. “AIDS, (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), has devastated the social and economic fabric of African societies, made orphans of a whole generation of children and become the epicentre of the HIV/AIDS pandemic” (Fassin, 2007: 76). Like the virus itself, the AIDS crisis mutates rapidly. Children who are AIDS orphans living in South Africa, as in other African countries, suffer from recurrent psychological trauma. It starts with the illness and death of their parents and is followed by cycles of poverty, malnutrition, stigma, exploitation, sickness and often sexual abuse. The figures concerning those affected, which are staggering, offer various predictions regarding the number of orphans left in the wake of the pandemic. Between 1990 and 2003, the number of orphaned children rose from fewer than 1 million to more than 12 million in sub-Saharan Africa (UNICEF, 2005: 68). South Africa is severely affected by the AIDS pandemic, with the largest number of HIV infections in the world, a total of 5.7 million (RSA, 2010: 10), affecting approximately 3.2 million women and 280 000 children aged from 0 to14 years. There is a significant variation in HIV prevalence per province, with the Eastern Cape (EC) reportedly having an average prevalence rate of 28 percent. Hence South Africa is likely to be the country with highest percentage of children orphaned by AIDS within its population. Orphanhood is a major consequence of the AIDS pandemic in South Africa with an estimated 2.2 million AIDS-orphaned children, 11,188 per 100,000 by 2015. Most children who are AIDS orphans living in township communities live predominantly uncared for and unsupported. Therefore the purpose of this research study was to develop strategies to provide care and support to children who are AIDS orphans living in township communities. To achieve the purpose of this research study, a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual design was used by the researcher to gain insight from health and social care practitioners who render care and support to children who are AIDS orphans living in these communities. The data from in-depth interviews with the health and social care practitoners was used by the researcher to develop strategies to provide care and support to children who are AIDS orphans living in township communities. The study comprised the following four phases: Phase One: During this phase, the researcher will present an overview of the current legislative framework policies at an international, national and provincial level, regarding the the rights of children living in South Africa. Phase Two: During this phase data from two research populations were collected and analysed. As the research process of this study dealt with two groups of participants, namely in group one health care practitioners and group two comprised social workers and psychologists, who work in the township communities to provide care and support to children who are AIDS orphans living in these communities. The researcher discussed each group separately in the discussion of phase two of the study. Phase Three: Comprised the themes identified in the data gathered from the transcribed in-depth interviews, the field notes as well as the reflective journals were cross-validated to ensure trustworthiness of the data which was then organised into a conceptual framework. The conceptual framework was used to clarify the relationships of the concepts and the themes identified during the research process and also used to link the gathered data to previously established models and theories (Schneider, 2004: 133). Phase Four: The last phase of the research design, focused on the development of the “Steps of progression strategies” to provide holistic care and support to children who are AIDS orphans living in township communities. This was done making use of the themes identified during data analysis and the literature sources used throughout this research process. The evaluation criteria of Chinn and Kramer (2008: 237-248) were used to evaluate the strategies. It is therefore concluded that the researcher succeeded in achieving the purpose of this study because strategies which were understandable, clear, simple, applicable and significant to nursing practice have been developed for use by the Department of Health and Department of Social Development as well as primary health and social care practitioners to provide holistic care and support to children who are AIDS orphans living in township communities in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Compound distribution models for athletics records
- Authors: Hanly, Erin
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Athletics , Statistics -- Sports , Forecasting -- Sports
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10105 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018609
- Description: World records in athletics capture the attention of both the general public and the academic community. Athletics records provide a wealth of quantifiable data, which represent the pinnacle of human ability at the time of the record. This research discusses modelling the progression of athletics world records using a compound distribution model which is found in actuarial statistics. Compound distributions allow for the simultaneous modelling of the frequency of record breaking and of the amount by which the record is improved at each record-breaking performance. A number of assumptions accompany the use of the compound distribution model. This research evaluates the athletics data for adherence to these assumptions, before carrying out distribution-fitting and goodnessof-fit testing. Forecasts of future performance are obtained by means of a simulation method. The forecasts obtained from the compound model are compared to forecasts obtained from non-linear models which have been proposed in literature. This research focuses on short-term forecasts, however, a modification to the compound model which allows for longer-term forecasts is also illustrated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Hanly, Erin
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Athletics , Statistics -- Sports , Forecasting -- Sports
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10105 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018609
- Description: World records in athletics capture the attention of both the general public and the academic community. Athletics records provide a wealth of quantifiable data, which represent the pinnacle of human ability at the time of the record. This research discusses modelling the progression of athletics world records using a compound distribution model which is found in actuarial statistics. Compound distributions allow for the simultaneous modelling of the frequency of record breaking and of the amount by which the record is improved at each record-breaking performance. A number of assumptions accompany the use of the compound distribution model. This research evaluates the athletics data for adherence to these assumptions, before carrying out distribution-fitting and goodnessof-fit testing. Forecasts of future performance are obtained by means of a simulation method. The forecasts obtained from the compound model are compared to forecasts obtained from non-linear models which have been proposed in literature. This research focuses on short-term forecasts, however, a modification to the compound model which allows for longer-term forecasts is also illustrated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Risk and protective factors associated with substance abuse amongst adolescents
- Authors: Hayman, Abraham Burger
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Teenagers -- Drug use -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Prevention , Substance abuse -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Resilience (Personality trait) in adolescence
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9996 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008297 , Teenagers -- Drug use -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Prevention , Substance abuse -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Resilience (Personality trait) in adolescence
- Description: Substance abuse remains one of the critical challenges facing South Africa. Research studies conducted locally and internationally, reflect a sharp increase in the number of young people that are falling prey to substance abuse (with the age of onset decreasing rapidly). These rising statistics, as well as the guidelines for evidence based practice suggest that drug prevention interventions need to be tailored to the needs of specific recipients of the service. The aim of the present study was therefore to understand the needs of a specific group of adolescents from a designated community in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth. This community has been riddled by gang violence, high levels of unemployment, teenage pregnancies, school dropout and in particular, large numbers of adolescent drug users. The goal of the study was therefore to enhance an understanding of the risk and protective factors associated with substance abuse amongst adolescents from this specific neighbourhood in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth. The study was imbedded in a socio-cultural and systemic theoretical framework. A qualitative research approach was adopted, employing an exploratory, descriptive and contextual research design to address the primary research question. A purposive sampling method was used to recruit eight non users and a snowball sampling technique was used (with the assistance of two gatekeepers) to identify eight substance users from the identified neighbourhood in the Northern Areas. An in-depth, semi-structured individual interview was used as the method of data collection with each of the 16 research participants. The data was analysed according to the steps for qualitative data analysis, as proposed by Tesch (in Creswell, 1994:155). The trustworthiness was enhanced by employing the four criteria proposed by Guba (in Krefting, 1991:214-222). The findings of the study indicate that the dominant risk factors for substance use are located at a family and community level. These included the absence of family structure, poor parental discipline and supervision, the presence of parental substance abuse, neglect of children and family disharmony. At a community level the risk factors included: the prevalence of drug outlets, normalization of substance use in the community, prevalence of gangsterism as a way life and source of income and apathy of community members in protecting their community. Protective factors were mutually exclusive and additional protective factors were discussed at length in the report. The findings which point to the adoption of an integrated community based approach to effect meaningful drug prevention strategies for substance abuse amongst adolescents in the studied community, are disseminated here in the form of a written report and will be prepared for submission to a journal for publication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Hayman, Abraham Burger
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Teenagers -- Drug use -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Prevention , Substance abuse -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Resilience (Personality trait) in adolescence
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9996 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008297 , Teenagers -- Drug use -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Prevention , Substance abuse -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Resilience (Personality trait) in adolescence
- Description: Substance abuse remains one of the critical challenges facing South Africa. Research studies conducted locally and internationally, reflect a sharp increase in the number of young people that are falling prey to substance abuse (with the age of onset decreasing rapidly). These rising statistics, as well as the guidelines for evidence based practice suggest that drug prevention interventions need to be tailored to the needs of specific recipients of the service. The aim of the present study was therefore to understand the needs of a specific group of adolescents from a designated community in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth. This community has been riddled by gang violence, high levels of unemployment, teenage pregnancies, school dropout and in particular, large numbers of adolescent drug users. The goal of the study was therefore to enhance an understanding of the risk and protective factors associated with substance abuse amongst adolescents from this specific neighbourhood in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth. The study was imbedded in a socio-cultural and systemic theoretical framework. A qualitative research approach was adopted, employing an exploratory, descriptive and contextual research design to address the primary research question. A purposive sampling method was used to recruit eight non users and a snowball sampling technique was used (with the assistance of two gatekeepers) to identify eight substance users from the identified neighbourhood in the Northern Areas. An in-depth, semi-structured individual interview was used as the method of data collection with each of the 16 research participants. The data was analysed according to the steps for qualitative data analysis, as proposed by Tesch (in Creswell, 1994:155). The trustworthiness was enhanced by employing the four criteria proposed by Guba (in Krefting, 1991:214-222). The findings of the study indicate that the dominant risk factors for substance use are located at a family and community level. These included the absence of family structure, poor parental discipline and supervision, the presence of parental substance abuse, neglect of children and family disharmony. At a community level the risk factors included: the prevalence of drug outlets, normalization of substance use in the community, prevalence of gangsterism as a way life and source of income and apathy of community members in protecting their community. Protective factors were mutually exclusive and additional protective factors were discussed at length in the report. The findings which point to the adoption of an integrated community based approach to effect meaningful drug prevention strategies for substance abuse amongst adolescents in the studied community, are disseminated here in the form of a written report and will be prepared for submission to a journal for publication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
A systematic review of the influence of parenting on the development of antisocial behaviour
- Authors: Jacobs, Philencia Daniela
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Antisocial personality disorders , Parenting , Child psychology , Conduct disorders in children
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9961 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020144
- Description: The role that parenting plays in the development of antisocial behaviour has been, and is still widely researched. International studies on this topic are vast. In South Africa, however, very little has been researched within this area. This study aimed to systematically review literature on the role of parenting in the development of antisocial behaviour. International literature published between 2000 and 2013 was reviewed in order to gain a better idea of the current state of knowledge on this topic. All of the articles included in the review examined some aspect of parenting behaviour, parenting practices and/or parenting styles related to the development of antisocial behaviour, conduct disorder, and/or oppositional defiant disorder. The articles were systematically assessed, and eight themes emerged which include: effective parenting behaviours; the moderating effects of callous unemotional traits on parenting; parental warmth; parental discipline; parental knowledge and monitoring; parental psychopathology; parenting styles; and parenting during infancy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Jacobs, Philencia Daniela
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Antisocial personality disorders , Parenting , Child psychology , Conduct disorders in children
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9961 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020144
- Description: The role that parenting plays in the development of antisocial behaviour has been, and is still widely researched. International studies on this topic are vast. In South Africa, however, very little has been researched within this area. This study aimed to systematically review literature on the role of parenting in the development of antisocial behaviour. International literature published between 2000 and 2013 was reviewed in order to gain a better idea of the current state of knowledge on this topic. All of the articles included in the review examined some aspect of parenting behaviour, parenting practices and/or parenting styles related to the development of antisocial behaviour, conduct disorder, and/or oppositional defiant disorder. The articles were systematically assessed, and eight themes emerged which include: effective parenting behaviours; the moderating effects of callous unemotional traits on parenting; parental warmth; parental discipline; parental knowledge and monitoring; parental psychopathology; parenting styles; and parenting during infancy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
An exploration of affirming family communication in families with adolescent children
- Authors: Jordaan, Cabriere
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Communication in families , Families -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9958 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020054
- Description: Affirming or positive family communication is important to equip families and individuals to meet life challenges. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between affirming family communication and family functioning, as well as the relationship between family functioning and the quality of communication between the adolescent and the father and mother respectively. Following this, affirming family communication was explored qualitatively from the perspective of the adolescent. A cross-sectional, quantitative survey research design was combined with an exploratory, qualitative design. The quantitative data was collected by asking participants to complete self-report questionnaires. The qualitative component consisted of focus groups discussing the topic of affirming family communication. One hundred first-year Psychology students of Stellenbosch University in South Africa completed the questionnaires. Fourteen of these students also participated in the focus groups. The quantitative results revealed a significant positive correlation between affirming family communication and family functioning. Furthermore, a significant positive correlation was found between family functioning and openness in communication between the adolescent and the mother and father respectively. Three core categories (with sub- categories) emerged from the content analysis of the focus group discussions. These core categories were verbal affirming communication, non-verbal affirming communication and functional affirming communication. The findings of this study highlight the importance of affirming family communication, especially in families with adolescent children, while also providing a description of affirming family communication from the adolescent’s perspective.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Jordaan, Cabriere
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Communication in families , Families -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9958 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020054
- Description: Affirming or positive family communication is important to equip families and individuals to meet life challenges. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between affirming family communication and family functioning, as well as the relationship between family functioning and the quality of communication between the adolescent and the father and mother respectively. Following this, affirming family communication was explored qualitatively from the perspective of the adolescent. A cross-sectional, quantitative survey research design was combined with an exploratory, qualitative design. The quantitative data was collected by asking participants to complete self-report questionnaires. The qualitative component consisted of focus groups discussing the topic of affirming family communication. One hundred first-year Psychology students of Stellenbosch University in South Africa completed the questionnaires. Fourteen of these students also participated in the focus groups. The quantitative results revealed a significant positive correlation between affirming family communication and family functioning. Furthermore, a significant positive correlation was found between family functioning and openness in communication between the adolescent and the mother and father respectively. Three core categories (with sub- categories) emerged from the content analysis of the focus group discussions. These core categories were verbal affirming communication, non-verbal affirming communication and functional affirming communication. The findings of this study highlight the importance of affirming family communication, especially in families with adolescent children, while also providing a description of affirming family communication from the adolescent’s perspective.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Self-esteem, coping and the psychology of infertility
- Authors: Jordaan, Hendrina Jacoba
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Infertility -- Psychological aspects , Self-esteem -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9959 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020055
- Description: This exploratory-descriptive study, using multiple case studies, investigated the self-esteem, coping and psychology of infertility of a sample of individuals who have received infertility treatment at a privately managed health care unit. Infertility is a complex condition associated with the inability to conceive a child, frequently manifesting itself as a result of various biological factors. A literature review indicated that being on Artificial Reproductive Technology (ART) treatment significantly increases the stress in an individual. In an attempt to gain insight into the way patients undergoing infertility treatment find the strength to complete their treatment cycles, and to endure and overcome the pressures associated therewith, in order to continue their lives – in spite of a negative treatment/pregnancy result, the researcher found it necessary to investigate the self-esteem, coping and the psychology of patients undergoing infertility treatment. An exploratory descriptive research design was used and the participants were chosen by means of a non-probability purposive sampling procedure. The participants were given a package of questionnaires to complete under the supervision of the group facilitator and researcher, prior to, as well as after the intervention. The assessment consisted of a biographical questionnaire and two standardised paper and pencil measures. The participants’ self-esteem was explored using James Battle’s (1981) Culture-Free Self-Esteem Inventory; while the coping resources were explored using Hammer and Marting’s (1988) Coping Resource Inventory (CRI). Although these data were not analysable, due to the small sample size, it was utilised in a qualitative manner to support the findings from the qualitative data. The data were also gathered from the participants via a psychological intervention programme in the format of three focus group sessions. All the qualitative results were analysed, according to Tesch’s model of content analysis. The general finding was that the period of infertility treatment is experienced as both difficult and challenging by individuals, and that there is immense healing in the sharing of one’s narrative with other infertility patients. It also surfaced that selfesteem, especially one’s feelings of worth, is most affected by a diagnosis of infertility, as well as by going through the roller coaster of the emotions associated with the treatment and monthly cycle of infertility. It was evident from the narratives told by the participants that every domain of one’s self-esteem is affected by a diagnosis of infertility, and that the biggest challenge in maintaining a positive selfesteem seemed to be in finding a balance between one’s real self and one’s ideal self. Furthermore, this study found that the challenge related to coping for the participants in this study was to present a coherent life narrative to the ‘world’, despite intense feelings of being misunderstood by others, and being faced with the discourse of infertility, as part of one’s life script. The main coping responses utilized by participants included the re-channelling of one’s focus, using denial, seeking out familial and social support, bargaining with God, and nurturing hope and faith that this journey of infertility is merely just a journey and not a destination, with the destination that of being blessed with a biological child of one’s own.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Jordaan, Hendrina Jacoba
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Infertility -- Psychological aspects , Self-esteem -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9959 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020055
- Description: This exploratory-descriptive study, using multiple case studies, investigated the self-esteem, coping and psychology of infertility of a sample of individuals who have received infertility treatment at a privately managed health care unit. Infertility is a complex condition associated with the inability to conceive a child, frequently manifesting itself as a result of various biological factors. A literature review indicated that being on Artificial Reproductive Technology (ART) treatment significantly increases the stress in an individual. In an attempt to gain insight into the way patients undergoing infertility treatment find the strength to complete their treatment cycles, and to endure and overcome the pressures associated therewith, in order to continue their lives – in spite of a negative treatment/pregnancy result, the researcher found it necessary to investigate the self-esteem, coping and the psychology of patients undergoing infertility treatment. An exploratory descriptive research design was used and the participants were chosen by means of a non-probability purposive sampling procedure. The participants were given a package of questionnaires to complete under the supervision of the group facilitator and researcher, prior to, as well as after the intervention. The assessment consisted of a biographical questionnaire and two standardised paper and pencil measures. The participants’ self-esteem was explored using James Battle’s (1981) Culture-Free Self-Esteem Inventory; while the coping resources were explored using Hammer and Marting’s (1988) Coping Resource Inventory (CRI). Although these data were not analysable, due to the small sample size, it was utilised in a qualitative manner to support the findings from the qualitative data. The data were also gathered from the participants via a psychological intervention programme in the format of three focus group sessions. All the qualitative results were analysed, according to Tesch’s model of content analysis. The general finding was that the period of infertility treatment is experienced as both difficult and challenging by individuals, and that there is immense healing in the sharing of one’s narrative with other infertility patients. It also surfaced that selfesteem, especially one’s feelings of worth, is most affected by a diagnosis of infertility, as well as by going through the roller coaster of the emotions associated with the treatment and monthly cycle of infertility. It was evident from the narratives told by the participants that every domain of one’s self-esteem is affected by a diagnosis of infertility, and that the biggest challenge in maintaining a positive selfesteem seemed to be in finding a balance between one’s real self and one’s ideal self. Furthermore, this study found that the challenge related to coping for the participants in this study was to present a coherent life narrative to the ‘world’, despite intense feelings of being misunderstood by others, and being faced with the discourse of infertility, as part of one’s life script. The main coping responses utilized by participants included the re-channelling of one’s focus, using denial, seeking out familial and social support, bargaining with God, and nurturing hope and faith that this journey of infertility is merely just a journey and not a destination, with the destination that of being blessed with a biological child of one’s own.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Biological activities of medical plants traditionally used in the Eastern Cape to treat pneumonia
- Kamanga, Melvin Chalochapasi
- Authors: Kamanga, Melvin Chalochapasi
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Communicable diseases -- Eastern Cape , Medicinal plants -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10124 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020051
- Description: Infectious diseases such as pneumonia still pose a major global health concern. Currently, the world is facing widespread emergence of acquired bacterial resistance to antibiotics which constitute one of the chief causes of infectious diseases. The accumulation of different antibiotic resistance mechanisms within the same strains has induced the appearance of the so called “superbugs”, or “multiple-drug resistant bacteria”. Due to antibiotic resistance, attention is currently being drawn towards biologically active components isolated from plant species commonly used as herbal medicine, as they may offer a new source of antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral activities. This is the basis of this study. In this study four medicinal plants namely, Cassia abbreviata, Geranium incanum, Pelargonium hortorum and Tecoma capensis were investigated for their antimicrobial potential. In vitro antimicrobial activity using agar disc diffusion method, agar dilution method and broth microdilution plate determination of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), were carried out against ATCC (American Type Culture Collection) strains and clinical isolates known to cause pneumonia. Aqueous, methanol and acetone extracts from the selected plants were thus tested against strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans. The plants exhibited pronounced antimicrobial activity and were more active against Gram-positive bacteria than Gram-negative bacteria. During agar disc diffusion method, the highest inhibition zone was demonstrated by the acetone extract of P. hortorum (IZ=22mm and AI=0.73) against the reference strain of S. pneumoniae (ATCC 49619). The range of zones of inhibition in diameter across strains of S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae was 7mm to 22mm with activity index range of 0.23 to 0.74. The lowest MIC produced by medicinal plants in the study during agar disc diffusion method against S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae strains, was 2.5mg/ml. In broth microdilution plate assay, the lowest MIC demonstrated by C. abbreviata, T. capensis and P. hortorum extracts on tested bacteria was 0.031mg/ml and that of G. incanum was 0.063mg/ml. Candida albicans strains were only inhibited at 20mg/ml by the study plants. The highest activity among the individual extracts was shown by P. hortorum methanol extract which inhibited 71% of the studied bacteria. T. capensis methanol extract was the least and inhibited only 17% of the tested bacteria. The strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae showed the highest resistance to medicinal plants employed in this study. Traditional preparation of selected medicinal plants did not show any significant antimicrobial activity. Bioactive analysis of compounds on study plants was carried out using standard methods which revealed the presence of anthraquinones, flavonoids, phytosterol, saponins, tannins and triterpenoids. Comparison of the inhibitory effect of the plant extracts against some broad spectrum antibiotics revealed that the tested medicinal plants showed greater antimicrobial activity than standard antibiotics. However, there was no correlation between the antibiotic susceptibility patterns of the bacteria and the effects of the plants, signifying that plants probably function through different mechanisms. Bioautographic findings on thin-layer chromatography plate, exhibited clear zones of inhibition of bacterial growth with the Rf value range of 0.09 to 0.94. Anti-mutagenic activity was assayed by the Ames mutagenicity test in the plate-incorporation method using histidine mutants of S. typhimurium strains TA 100. The selected plant extracts at 2.5mg/ml and 5mg/ml did not induce mutagenesis in the absence of liver-metabolizing enzymes. The study results indicated that the selected plants are capable of inhibiting the growth of the studied pathogenic microorganisms to a varied degree. The leaves of G. incanum, P. hortorum, T. capensis as well as the stem bark of C. abbreviata could be novel sources of antimicrobial agents that might have broad spectrum activity. The anti-mutagenic properties of the studied medicinal plants may also provide additional health supplemental value to the other claimed therapeutic properties of the plants.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Kamanga, Melvin Chalochapasi
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Communicable diseases -- Eastern Cape , Medicinal plants -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10124 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020051
- Description: Infectious diseases such as pneumonia still pose a major global health concern. Currently, the world is facing widespread emergence of acquired bacterial resistance to antibiotics which constitute one of the chief causes of infectious diseases. The accumulation of different antibiotic resistance mechanisms within the same strains has induced the appearance of the so called “superbugs”, or “multiple-drug resistant bacteria”. Due to antibiotic resistance, attention is currently being drawn towards biologically active components isolated from plant species commonly used as herbal medicine, as they may offer a new source of antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral activities. This is the basis of this study. In this study four medicinal plants namely, Cassia abbreviata, Geranium incanum, Pelargonium hortorum and Tecoma capensis were investigated for their antimicrobial potential. In vitro antimicrobial activity using agar disc diffusion method, agar dilution method and broth microdilution plate determination of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), were carried out against ATCC (American Type Culture Collection) strains and clinical isolates known to cause pneumonia. Aqueous, methanol and acetone extracts from the selected plants were thus tested against strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans. The plants exhibited pronounced antimicrobial activity and were more active against Gram-positive bacteria than Gram-negative bacteria. During agar disc diffusion method, the highest inhibition zone was demonstrated by the acetone extract of P. hortorum (IZ=22mm and AI=0.73) against the reference strain of S. pneumoniae (ATCC 49619). The range of zones of inhibition in diameter across strains of S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae was 7mm to 22mm with activity index range of 0.23 to 0.74. The lowest MIC produced by medicinal plants in the study during agar disc diffusion method against S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae strains, was 2.5mg/ml. In broth microdilution plate assay, the lowest MIC demonstrated by C. abbreviata, T. capensis and P. hortorum extracts on tested bacteria was 0.031mg/ml and that of G. incanum was 0.063mg/ml. Candida albicans strains were only inhibited at 20mg/ml by the study plants. The highest activity among the individual extracts was shown by P. hortorum methanol extract which inhibited 71% of the studied bacteria. T. capensis methanol extract was the least and inhibited only 17% of the tested bacteria. The strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae showed the highest resistance to medicinal plants employed in this study. Traditional preparation of selected medicinal plants did not show any significant antimicrobial activity. Bioactive analysis of compounds on study plants was carried out using standard methods which revealed the presence of anthraquinones, flavonoids, phytosterol, saponins, tannins and triterpenoids. Comparison of the inhibitory effect of the plant extracts against some broad spectrum antibiotics revealed that the tested medicinal plants showed greater antimicrobial activity than standard antibiotics. However, there was no correlation between the antibiotic susceptibility patterns of the bacteria and the effects of the plants, signifying that plants probably function through different mechanisms. Bioautographic findings on thin-layer chromatography plate, exhibited clear zones of inhibition of bacterial growth with the Rf value range of 0.09 to 0.94. Anti-mutagenic activity was assayed by the Ames mutagenicity test in the plate-incorporation method using histidine mutants of S. typhimurium strains TA 100. The selected plant extracts at 2.5mg/ml and 5mg/ml did not induce mutagenesis in the absence of liver-metabolizing enzymes. The study results indicated that the selected plants are capable of inhibiting the growth of the studied pathogenic microorganisms to a varied degree. The leaves of G. incanum, P. hortorum, T. capensis as well as the stem bark of C. abbreviata could be novel sources of antimicrobial agents that might have broad spectrum activity. The anti-mutagenic properties of the studied medicinal plants may also provide additional health supplemental value to the other claimed therapeutic properties of the plants.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013