The experiences of professional nurses regarding the management of health services rendered to tuberculosis patients
- Authors: Jantjies, Leigh-Anne Rene
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Tuberculosis -- Nursing -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Health services administration -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10025 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1399 , Tuberculosis -- Nursing -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Health services administration -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: The World Health Organisation (WHO) declared tuberculosis (TB) a global emergency, and this infectious disease remains a health threat by being the leading cause of death amongst adults (Naidoo, Dick & Cooper, 2008:55). In 2005, South Africa was ranked seventh in the world for having the highest TB rate and the lowest TB success rate in the world. As a professional nurse involved in the tuberculosis programme at a clinic in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality at local government level for approximately three years, the researcher observed that the morale of professional nurses who provide TB services appeared to be low. They also appeared to be frustrated because they feel that they are not winning the battle with regard to the TB epidemic in their communities irrespective of their efforts to try and curb the spread of the disease. The extent of the workload per person also appeared to add to the low morale and frustration of the professional nurses rendering TB health services because they feel that they are unable to manage everything. The objectives of the study were therefore to explore and describe how professional nurses experienced the management of health services being rendered to TB patients in Sub district B of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) in order to make recommendations that could be used by the district manager to address the research findings. The research study was based on a qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design. The research population consisted of all professional nurses who worked in the TB services of Sub district B. Non-probability, purposive sampling was used to select the participants for the study. Seven in-depth and three follow-up interviews were conducted before data saturation was achieved. The data gathered during the interview process by the researcher were transcribed and coded by an independent coder using Tech’s model for data analysis. Ethical considerations were adhered to throughout the research study. The aspect of trustworthiness according to Guba’s model was implemented in the research study and included credibility, applicability, consistency and neutrality. iii One theme, two sub themes and categories were identified relating to the diverse experiences expressed by the participants relating to the management of health services being rendered to TB patients. The experiences expressed by the professional nurses included both negative and positive experiences. The negative experiences expressed by the participants were for example, a lack of resources as hampering adequate service delivery, a concern regarding the number of staff contracting TB due to a lack of infection control measures, a difference in conditions of service between the two local authorities and the DOTS supporters as being a threat to patient confidentiality. The positive experiences expressed by the participants included experiences relating to job satisfaction in rendering TB health services, the DOTS supporters as being supportive to the staff, the TB meetings serving as an appropriate platform for problem solving and the audits conducted by managers as being remedial. The study concludes with recommendations made with regard to the areas of nursing practice, education and research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Jantjies, Leigh-Anne Rene
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Tuberculosis -- Nursing -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Health services administration -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10025 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1399 , Tuberculosis -- Nursing -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Health services administration -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: The World Health Organisation (WHO) declared tuberculosis (TB) a global emergency, and this infectious disease remains a health threat by being the leading cause of death amongst adults (Naidoo, Dick & Cooper, 2008:55). In 2005, South Africa was ranked seventh in the world for having the highest TB rate and the lowest TB success rate in the world. As a professional nurse involved in the tuberculosis programme at a clinic in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality at local government level for approximately three years, the researcher observed that the morale of professional nurses who provide TB services appeared to be low. They also appeared to be frustrated because they feel that they are not winning the battle with regard to the TB epidemic in their communities irrespective of their efforts to try and curb the spread of the disease. The extent of the workload per person also appeared to add to the low morale and frustration of the professional nurses rendering TB health services because they feel that they are unable to manage everything. The objectives of the study were therefore to explore and describe how professional nurses experienced the management of health services being rendered to TB patients in Sub district B of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) in order to make recommendations that could be used by the district manager to address the research findings. The research study was based on a qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design. The research population consisted of all professional nurses who worked in the TB services of Sub district B. Non-probability, purposive sampling was used to select the participants for the study. Seven in-depth and three follow-up interviews were conducted before data saturation was achieved. The data gathered during the interview process by the researcher were transcribed and coded by an independent coder using Tech’s model for data analysis. Ethical considerations were adhered to throughout the research study. The aspect of trustworthiness according to Guba’s model was implemented in the research study and included credibility, applicability, consistency and neutrality. iii One theme, two sub themes and categories were identified relating to the diverse experiences expressed by the participants relating to the management of health services being rendered to TB patients. The experiences expressed by the professional nurses included both negative and positive experiences. The negative experiences expressed by the participants were for example, a lack of resources as hampering adequate service delivery, a concern regarding the number of staff contracting TB due to a lack of infection control measures, a difference in conditions of service between the two local authorities and the DOTS supporters as being a threat to patient confidentiality. The positive experiences expressed by the participants included experiences relating to job satisfaction in rendering TB health services, the DOTS supporters as being supportive to the staff, the TB meetings serving as an appropriate platform for problem solving and the audits conducted by managers as being remedial. The study concludes with recommendations made with regard to the areas of nursing practice, education and research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The experiences of professional nurses working in outpatient departments of the introduction of the Batho Pele Principles in state hospitals
- Authors: Miza, Thenjiwe Mildred
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Nurse and patient -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Hospitals -- Outpatient services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10023 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1421 , Nurse and patient -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Hospitals -- Outpatient services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: After 1994 with the inception of the South African Democratic Government, the health care delivery system was one of the areas that had to be reviewed. The vehicle for a comprehensive health care system was based on primary health care which encouraged people and patients to take responsibility for their health by being involved in all aspects of their care. For this purpose the Batho Pele principles were introduced, a concept which is informed by 8 principles, namely: consultation, service standards, access, courtesy, information, openness and transparency, redress and value for money. These principles are meant to restore the dignity and the rights of patients which are paramount in the Constitution of South Africa. (Constitution of South Africa 108 of 1996 Chapter 2) The nurses claim that since the introduction of the Batho Pele Principles, patients and their families have been “impossible” towards nurses, making unnecessary and sometimes impossible demands. The nurses also experience patients and their families as being informed of their “rights” but not of their responsibilities as patients. They were also unaware of the rights of the nurses. The objectives of the study were:- To explore and describe the experiences of professional nurses working in the outpatient departments of the introduction of the Batho Pele principles in state hospitals, and to Recommend guidelines that will enhance better understanding and implementation of the Batho Pele principles by the professional nurses. The study is founded on a qualitative research paradigm based on explorative, descriptive and contextual framework. The data was collected from focus groups from each hospital of the Port Elizabeth Hospital Complex. Each group consisted of four to six willing participants all of them were professional nurses who have worked at least five or more years in the outpatient department of the Port Elizabeth Hospital Complex. Data was collected via semi-structured audio-taped interviews together with the researcher’s field notes. Data analysis was done using Tesch’s data analysis spiral. The assistance of independent coder reinforced the truth value of the findings. Themes and subthemes emerged from the data that was collected and revealed that the professional nurses experienced that the Batho Pele Principles as a good policy, but that it was difficulty to uphold due to inadequate planning of health services prior to implementation of the Batho Pele Principles. They experience not getting from their management and they also experience that there was lack of discipline in their institutions. Based on these findings, guidelines that will recommend better implementation of the Batho Pele Principles by nurses were compiled by the researcher and future research in this regard was recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Miza, Thenjiwe Mildred
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Nurse and patient -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Hospitals -- Outpatient services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10023 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1421 , Nurse and patient -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Hospitals -- Outpatient services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: After 1994 with the inception of the South African Democratic Government, the health care delivery system was one of the areas that had to be reviewed. The vehicle for a comprehensive health care system was based on primary health care which encouraged people and patients to take responsibility for their health by being involved in all aspects of their care. For this purpose the Batho Pele principles were introduced, a concept which is informed by 8 principles, namely: consultation, service standards, access, courtesy, information, openness and transparency, redress and value for money. These principles are meant to restore the dignity and the rights of patients which are paramount in the Constitution of South Africa. (Constitution of South Africa 108 of 1996 Chapter 2) The nurses claim that since the introduction of the Batho Pele Principles, patients and their families have been “impossible” towards nurses, making unnecessary and sometimes impossible demands. The nurses also experience patients and their families as being informed of their “rights” but not of their responsibilities as patients. They were also unaware of the rights of the nurses. The objectives of the study were:- To explore and describe the experiences of professional nurses working in the outpatient departments of the introduction of the Batho Pele principles in state hospitals, and to Recommend guidelines that will enhance better understanding and implementation of the Batho Pele principles by the professional nurses. The study is founded on a qualitative research paradigm based on explorative, descriptive and contextual framework. The data was collected from focus groups from each hospital of the Port Elizabeth Hospital Complex. Each group consisted of four to six willing participants all of them were professional nurses who have worked at least five or more years in the outpatient department of the Port Elizabeth Hospital Complex. Data was collected via semi-structured audio-taped interviews together with the researcher’s field notes. Data analysis was done using Tesch’s data analysis spiral. The assistance of independent coder reinforced the truth value of the findings. Themes and subthemes emerged from the data that was collected and revealed that the professional nurses experienced that the Batho Pele Principles as a good policy, but that it was difficulty to uphold due to inadequate planning of health services prior to implementation of the Batho Pele Principles. They experience not getting from their management and they also experience that there was lack of discipline in their institutions. Based on these findings, guidelines that will recommend better implementation of the Batho Pele Principles by nurses were compiled by the researcher and future research in this regard was recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The experiences of registered nurses' of their work environment in a critical care unit
- Authors: Adams, Bernardene Lucreshia
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Intensive care nursing -- South Africa , Intensive care units , Nurses -- Job stress -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10013 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1057 , Intensive care nursing -- South Africa , Intensive care units , Nurses -- Job stress -- South Africa
- Description: Critical care nursing is a vital and significant part of health care provision to critically ill patients. It is a specialty area of nursing that requires registered nurses who are highly motivated, knowledgeable and skilled to provide optimal care to critically ill patients. These patients are nursed in a complex environment consisting of specialised equipment (such as ventilators, defibrillators, intravenous pumps, and cardiac monitors) that is not found in any other field of nursing. Collegial support and an adequate registered nurse: patient ratio is vital in critical care units in order to provide optimal quality care to critically ill patients. However, an understaffed work environment, the demands of critical care nursing and other work-related problems, such as conflict with physicians, inadequate remuneration packages and an increased workload can cause serious distress and dissatisfaction amongst registered nurses in this specific environment (Carayon & Gürses, 2005:287). The objectives of this study therefore are to explore and describe the experiences of registered nurses of their work environment in a critical care unit and to make recommendations that will assist registered nurses working in a critical care unit. A qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design will be utilised. Data will be collected by means of semi-structured interviews and analysed according to the framework provided by Tesch (in Cresswell, 2003:192). Purposive sampling will be used to select a sample of registered nurses working in a critical care environment. Guba’s model (in Krefting, 1991) will be utilised to verify data and to ensure trustworthiness of the study. Ethical considerations will be adhered to throughout the study. Once data has been analysed, recommendations will be made that will assist registered nurses working in a critical care unit.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Adams, Bernardene Lucreshia
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Intensive care nursing -- South Africa , Intensive care units , Nurses -- Job stress -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10013 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1057 , Intensive care nursing -- South Africa , Intensive care units , Nurses -- Job stress -- South Africa
- Description: Critical care nursing is a vital and significant part of health care provision to critically ill patients. It is a specialty area of nursing that requires registered nurses who are highly motivated, knowledgeable and skilled to provide optimal care to critically ill patients. These patients are nursed in a complex environment consisting of specialised equipment (such as ventilators, defibrillators, intravenous pumps, and cardiac monitors) that is not found in any other field of nursing. Collegial support and an adequate registered nurse: patient ratio is vital in critical care units in order to provide optimal quality care to critically ill patients. However, an understaffed work environment, the demands of critical care nursing and other work-related problems, such as conflict with physicians, inadequate remuneration packages and an increased workload can cause serious distress and dissatisfaction amongst registered nurses in this specific environment (Carayon & Gürses, 2005:287). The objectives of this study therefore are to explore and describe the experiences of registered nurses of their work environment in a critical care unit and to make recommendations that will assist registered nurses working in a critical care unit. A qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design will be utilised. Data will be collected by means of semi-structured interviews and analysed according to the framework provided by Tesch (in Cresswell, 2003:192). Purposive sampling will be used to select a sample of registered nurses working in a critical care environment. Guba’s model (in Krefting, 1991) will be utilised to verify data and to ensure trustworthiness of the study. Ethical considerations will be adhered to throughout the study. Once data has been analysed, recommendations will be made that will assist registered nurses working in a critical care unit.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
The experiences of users of the Griffiths III
- Authors: Le Roux, Johan
- Date: 2020-07
- Subjects: Child development -- Testing , Psychological tests
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51287 , vital:43260
- Description: The Griffiths III was published in 2016 and has since then been used internationally by practitioners. The Association for Research in Infant and Child Development (ARICD) is currently planning and reviewing, refining, and improving the 2016 version of this assessment tool. Part of this process is to obtain feedback from all the key role players in the Griffiths III. The purpose of the present study was to explore and describe how users of the Griffiths III experience the measure. A qualitative methodology was utilised, and an exploratory-descriptive design was employed. A questionnaire was created by the ARICD and distributed to all 217 registered users of the Griffiths III. A total of 72 registered Griffiths users, who were using the Griffiths III at that stage, completed and returned the questionnaires to the ARICD. The data were analysed using thematic analysis to extract themes. The findings of the study revealed four overarching themes, namely 1) the purpose and use of the Griffiths III; 2) domains, content, and structure of the Griffiths III; 3) psychometric properties, standardisation, and norms; and 4) merits, limitations, and improvements. Based on the findings, recommendations were made regarding the revision of the Griffiths III. These recommendations relate to a specialised version for children with an autism spectrum disorder, psychometric properties, school readiness elements, universality of the scales, administration time, diagnosis and screening, cost, specific items, and report writing. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciencess, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-07
- Authors: Le Roux, Johan
- Date: 2020-07
- Subjects: Child development -- Testing , Psychological tests
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51287 , vital:43260
- Description: The Griffiths III was published in 2016 and has since then been used internationally by practitioners. The Association for Research in Infant and Child Development (ARICD) is currently planning and reviewing, refining, and improving the 2016 version of this assessment tool. Part of this process is to obtain feedback from all the key role players in the Griffiths III. The purpose of the present study was to explore and describe how users of the Griffiths III experience the measure. A qualitative methodology was utilised, and an exploratory-descriptive design was employed. A questionnaire was created by the ARICD and distributed to all 217 registered users of the Griffiths III. A total of 72 registered Griffiths users, who were using the Griffiths III at that stage, completed and returned the questionnaires to the ARICD. The data were analysed using thematic analysis to extract themes. The findings of the study revealed four overarching themes, namely 1) the purpose and use of the Griffiths III; 2) domains, content, and structure of the Griffiths III; 3) psychometric properties, standardisation, and norms; and 4) merits, limitations, and improvements. Based on the findings, recommendations were made regarding the revision of the Griffiths III. These recommendations relate to a specialised version for children with an autism spectrum disorder, psychometric properties, school readiness elements, universality of the scales, administration time, diagnosis and screening, cost, specific items, and report writing. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciencess, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-07
The experiences of volunteers involved in home-based care for people living with HIV/AIDS
- Sobuce, Ndabazovuyo Wellington
- Authors: Sobuce, Ndabazovuyo Wellington
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: AIDS patients -- Home care -- South Africa -- Lusikisiki , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Home care -- South Africa -- Lusikisiki , HIV-positive persons -- Home care -- South Africa -- Lusikisiki , Home-based family services -- South Africa -- Lusikisiki
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9988 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/608 , AIDS patients -- Home care -- South Africa -- Lusikisiki , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Home care -- South Africa -- Lusikisiki , HIV-positive persons -- Home care -- South Africa -- Lusikisiki , Home-based family services -- South Africa -- Lusikisiki
- Description: HIV/AIDS is a pandemic infecting and affecting millions of people worldwide. South Africa is also severely affected by this disease. Because hospitals cannot cope with patients admitted daily especially with the influx caused by HIV/AIDS patients, the government has introduced home-based care of people living with HIV/AIDS. Amongst those who practice home-based care are the volunteers. This study is aimed at exploring and describing the experiences of volunteers involved in home-based care of people living with HIV/AIDS in the Lusikisiki Magisterial district in the former Transkei area of the Province of the Eastern Cape. The researcher used a qualitative methodology with the aim of finding out what it is like to be a volunteer involved in home-based care in a rural area. The data was collected by means of semi-structured one-to-one interviews or guided interviews. A total sample of thirteen research participants was acquired through purposive as well as snowball sampling. The interviews were guided by a number of broad question themes. Data was analyzed using Tesch’s framework of data analysis as described in Creswell (1994). The researcher used Guba’s model as outlined in Krefting (1991) to ensure trustworthiness of the research findings. A literature control was undertaken to find out what other researchers and authors say about the issues raised by the study. There were five themes that came out of the data analysis process and these themes are: o The experiences of volunteers with home-based care. o Factors facilitating the work of volunteers. o Problems encountered by volunteers. o Possible solutions to problems encountered. o Views of volunteers regarding home-based care. These broad themes were further reduced into sub-themes and categories. Based on the discussion of themes, sub-themes, and categories, some research findings were presented. The discussion of the themes, sub-themes and categories was supported by verbatim quotations from the participants. On the basis of research findings, conclusions and recommendations were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Sobuce, Ndabazovuyo Wellington
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: AIDS patients -- Home care -- South Africa -- Lusikisiki , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Home care -- South Africa -- Lusikisiki , HIV-positive persons -- Home care -- South Africa -- Lusikisiki , Home-based family services -- South Africa -- Lusikisiki
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9988 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/608 , AIDS patients -- Home care -- South Africa -- Lusikisiki , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Home care -- South Africa -- Lusikisiki , HIV-positive persons -- Home care -- South Africa -- Lusikisiki , Home-based family services -- South Africa -- Lusikisiki
- Description: HIV/AIDS is a pandemic infecting and affecting millions of people worldwide. South Africa is also severely affected by this disease. Because hospitals cannot cope with patients admitted daily especially with the influx caused by HIV/AIDS patients, the government has introduced home-based care of people living with HIV/AIDS. Amongst those who practice home-based care are the volunteers. This study is aimed at exploring and describing the experiences of volunteers involved in home-based care of people living with HIV/AIDS in the Lusikisiki Magisterial district in the former Transkei area of the Province of the Eastern Cape. The researcher used a qualitative methodology with the aim of finding out what it is like to be a volunteer involved in home-based care in a rural area. The data was collected by means of semi-structured one-to-one interviews or guided interviews. A total sample of thirteen research participants was acquired through purposive as well as snowball sampling. The interviews were guided by a number of broad question themes. Data was analyzed using Tesch’s framework of data analysis as described in Creswell (1994). The researcher used Guba’s model as outlined in Krefting (1991) to ensure trustworthiness of the research findings. A literature control was undertaken to find out what other researchers and authors say about the issues raised by the study. There were five themes that came out of the data analysis process and these themes are: o The experiences of volunteers with home-based care. o Factors facilitating the work of volunteers. o Problems encountered by volunteers. o Possible solutions to problems encountered. o Views of volunteers regarding home-based care. These broad themes were further reduced into sub-themes and categories. Based on the discussion of themes, sub-themes, and categories, some research findings were presented. The discussion of the themes, sub-themes and categories was supported by verbatim quotations from the participants. On the basis of research findings, conclusions and recommendations were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
The extent of discharge planning by nurses for patients who have undergone valvular surgery
- Authors: Verwey, Oriana
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Heart -- Surgery -- Nursing -- South Africa , Heart valves -- Surgery -- South Africa , Heart valves -- Surgery , Heart -- Surgery -- Patients -- Rehabilitation -- South Africa , Hospitals -- Admission and discharge -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10015 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/445 , Heart -- Surgery -- Nursing -- South Africa , Heart valves -- Surgery -- South Africa , Heart valves -- Surgery , Heart -- Surgery -- Patients -- Rehabilitation -- South Africa , Hospitals -- Admission and discharge -- South Africa
- Description: Valvular disorders can be corrected by means of surgery, after which very comprehensive discharge planning should be implemented to prevent the occurrence of post-operative complications. Advances in medical technology and intellect instigate earlier discharge for patients after they have undergone valvular surgery. The aim of this research study is to establish the extent of discharge planning by nurses for patients who have undergone valvular surgery, so that practice guidelines in the form of an in-service educational framework can be compiled for nurses in the management of these patients post-operatively. Patients, many of whom are from rural areas, are discharged without an adequate referral system. There are, currently, no set guidelines or referral persons to direct these patients during their rehabilitation period. Based on the researcher’s personal observations, it is evident that many patients suffer from bacterial endocarditis or clotted valves due to poor post-surgery management. However, both of these conditions could be avoided if proper health education was given to these patients. The study will take the form of a quantitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual survey. Data will be collected by means of a structured questionnaire that will be completed by the nurses working in the cardiac general ward and the cardiac clinic. Findings of the research study will be used to assist the researcher in developing an in-service educational framework for staff that are both nursing and preparing post valvular surgery patients for discharge. The goal is to prevent complications such as clot formation and endocarditis and to enable patients to deal effectively with their rehabilitation period.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Verwey, Oriana
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Heart -- Surgery -- Nursing -- South Africa , Heart valves -- Surgery -- South Africa , Heart valves -- Surgery , Heart -- Surgery -- Patients -- Rehabilitation -- South Africa , Hospitals -- Admission and discharge -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10015 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/445 , Heart -- Surgery -- Nursing -- South Africa , Heart valves -- Surgery -- South Africa , Heart valves -- Surgery , Heart -- Surgery -- Patients -- Rehabilitation -- South Africa , Hospitals -- Admission and discharge -- South Africa
- Description: Valvular disorders can be corrected by means of surgery, after which very comprehensive discharge planning should be implemented to prevent the occurrence of post-operative complications. Advances in medical technology and intellect instigate earlier discharge for patients after they have undergone valvular surgery. The aim of this research study is to establish the extent of discharge planning by nurses for patients who have undergone valvular surgery, so that practice guidelines in the form of an in-service educational framework can be compiled for nurses in the management of these patients post-operatively. Patients, many of whom are from rural areas, are discharged without an adequate referral system. There are, currently, no set guidelines or referral persons to direct these patients during their rehabilitation period. Based on the researcher’s personal observations, it is evident that many patients suffer from bacterial endocarditis or clotted valves due to poor post-surgery management. However, both of these conditions could be avoided if proper health education was given to these patients. The study will take the form of a quantitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual survey. Data will be collected by means of a structured questionnaire that will be completed by the nurses working in the cardiac general ward and the cardiac clinic. Findings of the research study will be used to assist the researcher in developing an in-service educational framework for staff that are both nursing and preparing post valvular surgery patients for discharge. The goal is to prevent complications such as clot formation and endocarditis and to enable patients to deal effectively with their rehabilitation period.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The factors that affect the low uptake of medical male circumcision among adult males 20-39 years of age in Gauteng Province, South Africa
- Authors: Palmer, Eurica Laetitia
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Circumcision Circumcision -- South Africa -- Gauteng Initiation rites -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Health
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10553 , vital:35606
- Description: The objective of this study is to determine the factors that contribute to low MMC uptake with the aim of proposing strategies to improve MMC demand creation for older adult males (20-39 years). By employing a qualitative research methodology, the study explores the factors and barriers that contribute to the low MMC uptake of adult males aged between 20 to 39 years in order to understand the situation from the perspective of the participants. A purposive sampling method was used to select 24 participants. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted with four Provincial Programme Managers from the National and the Gauteng Provincial Department of Health. Two focus-group discussions were also conducted with 20 adult males aged 20 to 39 years. The data collected were analysed, categorised, synthesised and decoded. The results of the research were explained well comprising the narratives of the participants. The main findings show that there are various contextual, individual and community factors contributing to the low MMC uptake. The study also found that the MMC programme does not review MMC communication messages consistently and continuously and demand creation strategies for adult males in the age group 20 to 39 years.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Palmer, Eurica Laetitia
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Circumcision Circumcision -- South Africa -- Gauteng Initiation rites -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Health
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10553 , vital:35606
- Description: The objective of this study is to determine the factors that contribute to low MMC uptake with the aim of proposing strategies to improve MMC demand creation for older adult males (20-39 years). By employing a qualitative research methodology, the study explores the factors and barriers that contribute to the low MMC uptake of adult males aged between 20 to 39 years in order to understand the situation from the perspective of the participants. A purposive sampling method was used to select 24 participants. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted with four Provincial Programme Managers from the National and the Gauteng Provincial Department of Health. Two focus-group discussions were also conducted with 20 adult males aged 20 to 39 years. The data collected were analysed, categorised, synthesised and decoded. The results of the research were explained well comprising the narratives of the participants. The main findings show that there are various contextual, individual and community factors contributing to the low MMC uptake. The study also found that the MMC programme does not review MMC communication messages consistently and continuously and demand creation strategies for adult males in the age group 20 to 39 years.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The four P's of Pharmacy: potions, products, profits and people
- Authors: Truter, Ilse
- Subjects: Pharmacy , Pharmacy -- Study and teaching , f-sa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Lectures
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21626 , vital:29721
- Description: A short overview of my academic journey by focusing on the three pillars of academia, followed by what I consider to be the four "P's" of Pharmacy, a question about a further "P", and in conclusion what I consider to be the way forward for Pharmacy.
- Full Text: false
- Authors: Truter, Ilse
- Subjects: Pharmacy , Pharmacy -- Study and teaching , f-sa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Lectures
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21626 , vital:29721
- Description: A short overview of my academic journey by focusing on the three pillars of academia, followed by what I consider to be the four "P's" of Pharmacy, a question about a further "P", and in conclusion what I consider to be the way forward for Pharmacy.
- Full Text: false
The general and emotional development of a sample of South African children in residential care
- Authors: Wills, Nicolene
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Children -- Institutional care -- South Africa , Child psychopathology -- Residential treatment -- South Africa , Children -- Services for -- South Africa , Child welfare -- South Africa , Child care services -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9856 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1578 , Children -- Institutional care -- South Africa , Child psychopathology -- Residential treatment -- South Africa , Children -- Services for -- South Africa , Child welfare -- South Africa , Child care services -- South Africa
- Description: The main aim of this study was to explore and describe the general and emotional development of a sample of South African children between the age of five and eight years in residential care. More specifically, the study aimed to explore and describe the general level of development of a sample of children in residential care; to explore and describe the development of a sample of children in residential care in six areas of development; and to describe the emotional wellbeing of children in residential care. A non-probability, purposive sampling method was applied as the participants were comprised of children between the ages of 5 and 8 years housed at the residential care facility. The sample consisted of 11 children. The multiple case study method was used to achieve the aim of the study, using both qualitative and quantitative data. The quantitative data consisted of scores obtained from the administration of the Griffiths Mental Development Scales - Extended Revised (GMDS-ER). The qualitative data was obtained from the Human Figure Drawing (HFD), participants’ scholastic progress reports, case reports from the residential care facility and clinical observations during the assessment period. The data was analysed according to thematic analysis. The results highlighted the pervasiveness of delays in all domains of child development of children housed in residential care, specifically that of language, social and emotional development. An important finding of the study was that decrements in these domains of development underpinned delays in the other domains of development since they form the foundation of learning and relating to the world. The study served to emphasize the importance of consistent developmental assessment in order to ascertain whether these children present with developmental delays and, if so, to xv identify which areas of development are most affected. Information from the developmental assessments could assist in the early identification of developmental delays and allow for individually tailored interventions to overcome such delays.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Wills, Nicolene
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Children -- Institutional care -- South Africa , Child psychopathology -- Residential treatment -- South Africa , Children -- Services for -- South Africa , Child welfare -- South Africa , Child care services -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9856 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1578 , Children -- Institutional care -- South Africa , Child psychopathology -- Residential treatment -- South Africa , Children -- Services for -- South Africa , Child welfare -- South Africa , Child care services -- South Africa
- Description: The main aim of this study was to explore and describe the general and emotional development of a sample of South African children between the age of five and eight years in residential care. More specifically, the study aimed to explore and describe the general level of development of a sample of children in residential care; to explore and describe the development of a sample of children in residential care in six areas of development; and to describe the emotional wellbeing of children in residential care. A non-probability, purposive sampling method was applied as the participants were comprised of children between the ages of 5 and 8 years housed at the residential care facility. The sample consisted of 11 children. The multiple case study method was used to achieve the aim of the study, using both qualitative and quantitative data. The quantitative data consisted of scores obtained from the administration of the Griffiths Mental Development Scales - Extended Revised (GMDS-ER). The qualitative data was obtained from the Human Figure Drawing (HFD), participants’ scholastic progress reports, case reports from the residential care facility and clinical observations during the assessment period. The data was analysed according to thematic analysis. The results highlighted the pervasiveness of delays in all domains of child development of children housed in residential care, specifically that of language, social and emotional development. An important finding of the study was that decrements in these domains of development underpinned delays in the other domains of development since they form the foundation of learning and relating to the world. The study served to emphasize the importance of consistent developmental assessment in order to ascertain whether these children present with developmental delays and, if so, to xv identify which areas of development are most affected. Information from the developmental assessments could assist in the early identification of developmental delays and allow for individually tailored interventions to overcome such delays.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The general development and cognitive ability of a sample of children in specialized education
- Authors: Andrews, Samantha Lee
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Special education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Children with disabilities -- Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Child development -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Griffiths Development Scales
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9951 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015714
- Description: The main aim of this study was to explore and describe the development and cognitive ability of a sample of children aged six to eight enrolled in specialised education, in the category of specific learning disability (SLD). This was achieved through the utilization of the Griffiths-Mental Development Scales – Extended Revised, the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children – Fourth Edition and input from the trans-disciplinary team. A non-probability, purposive sampling method was employed and the sample consisted of eight participants. The multiple case study method was used in order to achieve the aim of the study. Both qualitative and quantitative data were incorporated to provide a holistic description of the participants. Quantitative data was obtained from the Griffiths-Mental Development Scales – Extended Revised, the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children – Fourth Edition while qualitative data was obtained from the Biographical Questionnaire, input from members of the trans-disciplinary team, data from the participants‟ archives as well as clinical observations made during the assessment process. The data was analysed according to the domains of childhood development.The results obtained revealed that the general development of the sample as measured by the Griffiths-Mental Development Scales – Extended Revised was average. The Eye and Hand Co-ordination Subscale was the most problematic for the participants. The majority of the sample obtained below average scores on the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children – Fourth Edition‟s full scale IQ (FSIQ). The Verbal Reasoning Index and the Working Memory Index yielded the lowest scores amongst the sample. The results indicated that the majority of the participants are stronger with non-verbal as opposed to verbal reasoning. The study revealed that the two measures, the Griffiths-Mental Development Scales – Extended Revised, the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children – Fourth Edition complement one another. The developmental and intellectual nature of the measures allow for gaps left by the one measure to be filled by the other. The study highlighted the importance of gaining information from the trans-disciplinary team and not relying purely on psychometric measures. It was made clear through the study that deficits often exist that are not picked up by assessment measures alone. In order to gain a comprehensive, holistic picture of a child, one needs to consult a variety of sources. Questions regarding the classification system of high needs learners as well as the current system of specialised education were raised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Andrews, Samantha Lee
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Special education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Children with disabilities -- Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Child development -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Griffiths Development Scales
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9951 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015714
- Description: The main aim of this study was to explore and describe the development and cognitive ability of a sample of children aged six to eight enrolled in specialised education, in the category of specific learning disability (SLD). This was achieved through the utilization of the Griffiths-Mental Development Scales – Extended Revised, the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children – Fourth Edition and input from the trans-disciplinary team. A non-probability, purposive sampling method was employed and the sample consisted of eight participants. The multiple case study method was used in order to achieve the aim of the study. Both qualitative and quantitative data were incorporated to provide a holistic description of the participants. Quantitative data was obtained from the Griffiths-Mental Development Scales – Extended Revised, the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children – Fourth Edition while qualitative data was obtained from the Biographical Questionnaire, input from members of the trans-disciplinary team, data from the participants‟ archives as well as clinical observations made during the assessment process. The data was analysed according to the domains of childhood development.The results obtained revealed that the general development of the sample as measured by the Griffiths-Mental Development Scales – Extended Revised was average. The Eye and Hand Co-ordination Subscale was the most problematic for the participants. The majority of the sample obtained below average scores on the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children – Fourth Edition‟s full scale IQ (FSIQ). The Verbal Reasoning Index and the Working Memory Index yielded the lowest scores amongst the sample. The results indicated that the majority of the participants are stronger with non-verbal as opposed to verbal reasoning. The study revealed that the two measures, the Griffiths-Mental Development Scales – Extended Revised, the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children – Fourth Edition complement one another. The developmental and intellectual nature of the measures allow for gaps left by the one measure to be filled by the other. The study highlighted the importance of gaining information from the trans-disciplinary team and not relying purely on psychometric measures. It was made clear through the study that deficits often exist that are not picked up by assessment measures alone. In order to gain a comprehensive, holistic picture of a child, one needs to consult a variety of sources. Questions regarding the classification system of high needs learners as well as the current system of specialised education were raised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The health status of construction workers
- Authors: Deacon, Claire Helen
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Employees -- Diseases -- South Africa , Construction workers -- Health and hygiene -- South Africa , Construction workers -- Health risk assessment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:11025 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/326 , Construction industry -- Employees -- Diseases -- South Africa , Construction workers -- Health and hygiene -- South Africa , Construction workers -- Health risk assessment -- South Africa
- Description: The construction industry is considered to be an extremely dangerous working environment, and therefore the health status of construction workers needs to be considered prior, during and on leaving the industry. Occupational hazards relative to the construction worker are well researched internationally; however few countries undertake routine medical surveillance to identify the health status of the construction worker relative to these hazards. Employers have a higher duty of care to identify workers who could be a risk at work from non-occupationally related conditions such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Work could exacerbate these conditions, leading to absenteeism, poor performance and eventually leaving the industry due to ill health. The dissertation explores, inter alia: the risks to which workers are exposed; the legal aspects; relevant literature regarding medical surveillance, and the use of a medical surveillance instrument used to determine the health status of 142 construction workers who consented to participate in the study. The methodological approach used in this study was a quantitative descriptive design, more specifically, using a randomised cross-sectional survey design. The instrument used to determine health status included a full medical, occupational and social history, as well as a physical examination undertaken by Occupational Health Nursing Practitioners (OHNs). Findings indicate that most construction workers believe they are healthy. However only a small percentage of construction workers did not require referral for further investigation and / or treatment.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Deacon, Claire Helen
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Employees -- Diseases -- South Africa , Construction workers -- Health and hygiene -- South Africa , Construction workers -- Health risk assessment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:11025 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/326 , Construction industry -- Employees -- Diseases -- South Africa , Construction workers -- Health and hygiene -- South Africa , Construction workers -- Health risk assessment -- South Africa
- Description: The construction industry is considered to be an extremely dangerous working environment, and therefore the health status of construction workers needs to be considered prior, during and on leaving the industry. Occupational hazards relative to the construction worker are well researched internationally; however few countries undertake routine medical surveillance to identify the health status of the construction worker relative to these hazards. Employers have a higher duty of care to identify workers who could be a risk at work from non-occupationally related conditions such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Work could exacerbate these conditions, leading to absenteeism, poor performance and eventually leaving the industry due to ill health. The dissertation explores, inter alia: the risks to which workers are exposed; the legal aspects; relevant literature regarding medical surveillance, and the use of a medical surveillance instrument used to determine the health status of 142 construction workers who consented to participate in the study. The methodological approach used in this study was a quantitative descriptive design, more specifically, using a randomised cross-sectional survey design. The instrument used to determine health status included a full medical, occupational and social history, as well as a physical examination undertaken by Occupational Health Nursing Practitioners (OHNs). Findings indicate that most construction workers believe they are healthy. However only a small percentage of construction workers did not require referral for further investigation and / or treatment.
- Full Text:
The identity alignment of Christian beliefs and homosexual orientation in adult women
- Authors: Kasmed, Fa-eeza
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Homosexuality -- Religious aspects Women -- Religious aspects -- Christianity , Women -- Identity
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/17658 , vital:28425
- Description: The homosexual orientation has been controversial in many countries around the world, with religion often used as the foundation for critique against this orientation. The prevalence of discrimination, and the expectation of rejection, often results in homosexual individuals concealing their sexual identity. In the process homosexual individuals may deny, hide, or even discarded their authentic selves. However, some individuals reach a point of comfort with both these constructs of their identity, a position that supports the authentic self. The aim of this study is to explore and describe the process of how individuals who identify as both Christian and homosexual align these parts into their identity, to reach a place of comfort. The study further seeks to generate insight that can be used to assist individuals in similar positions of identity conflict. The study uses qualitative methodology, more specifically an exploratory- descriptive design. The sample is identified through non-probability purposive sampling, and data collected through semi- structured interviews. The data is analysed using an interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA) framework. Thematic analysis identified major themes of denial, conflict, anger, bargaining, deconstruction, and self- acceptance. These themes followed a non- linear and interactive process, and present participants reaching a place of comfort with their Christian beliefs and homosexual orientation; which is discussed through the interpretative lens of social constructionism and queer theory.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Kasmed, Fa-eeza
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Homosexuality -- Religious aspects Women -- Religious aspects -- Christianity , Women -- Identity
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/17658 , vital:28425
- Description: The homosexual orientation has been controversial in many countries around the world, with religion often used as the foundation for critique against this orientation. The prevalence of discrimination, and the expectation of rejection, often results in homosexual individuals concealing their sexual identity. In the process homosexual individuals may deny, hide, or even discarded their authentic selves. However, some individuals reach a point of comfort with both these constructs of their identity, a position that supports the authentic self. The aim of this study is to explore and describe the process of how individuals who identify as both Christian and homosexual align these parts into their identity, to reach a place of comfort. The study further seeks to generate insight that can be used to assist individuals in similar positions of identity conflict. The study uses qualitative methodology, more specifically an exploratory- descriptive design. The sample is identified through non-probability purposive sampling, and data collected through semi- structured interviews. The data is analysed using an interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA) framework. Thematic analysis identified major themes of denial, conflict, anger, bargaining, deconstruction, and self- acceptance. These themes followed a non- linear and interactive process, and present participants reaching a place of comfort with their Christian beliefs and homosexual orientation; which is discussed through the interpretative lens of social constructionism and queer theory.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The impact of a ward pharmacist in a surgical ward of a private hospital in the Eastern Cape
- Stone, Leanne Nicole, Burton, S F
- Authors: Stone, Leanne Nicole , Burton, S F
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Hospital pharmacies , Pharmaceutical services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Pharmacists -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5916 , vital:21012
- Description: Medication errors are becoming problematic in both hospital and outpatient settings worldwide. Inappropriate use of medication can cause harm to the patient and maintaining high levels of quality patient care is essential to protect all patients. Clinical pharmacy practice contributes to improved patient care by optimising medication therapy; and promoting health, wellness and disease prevention. The involvement of a pharmacist at a ward level has been shown to improve patient care; reduce mortality and morbidity rates; decrease healthcare costs; minimise medication errors; and improve outcomes of drug therapy. However, clinical pharmacy is a fairly new practice in South Africa and there are limited studies available. This study aimed to evaluate the perceived benefits of a ward-based pharmacist on the provision of pharmaceutical care to patients in a hospital setting and to consequently implement a ward-based pharmacy service. The objectives of the study were: (1) to assess, via a questionnaire, the perceptions and attitudes of medical practitioners and nurses to ward-based pharmacy prior to and after implementation of a ward-based pharmacy service, (2) to implement a ward-based pharmacy service in a selected hospital ward; (3) to document and analyse the nature of the work and activities that a ward pharmacist undertakes, and (4) to document and analyse the frequency and nature of ward pharmacist interventions. The study was conducted in a surgical ward of a private hospital in the Eastern Cape. The study design was an intervention study, using a mixed-methods design, with a convergent approach. A convenience sample of 106 patients was obtained over the eight week study period. Participation was voluntary and confidentiality was maintained at all times. Four data collection tools were used during the study and a pilot study was conducted to ensure their validity and reliability. The quantitative data was analysed statistically while the qualitative questions were analysed through coding the various responses. The results of the study showed that medical practitioners and nurses of a surgical ward had a positive attitude towards ward pharmacy both prior to and after the implementation of a ward pharmacy service. There were ward pharmacist interventions made in 50% (n=106) of the patients who participated in the study. A large percentage (57%; 50; n=87) of the ward pharmacist interventions were pharmacist-initiated interventions to optimise patient care while prescribing errors (51%; 19; n=37) were the most commonly occurring medication error. The majority of the medication items involved in the interventions (34%; 34; n=101) were related to the anti-microbial medication class. Overall, there was a 73% (36; n=49) acceptance rate of the ward pharmacist interventions that were made to both the medical practitioners and nurses. There were a number of factors that had a significant relationship with a ward pharmacist intervention being required which included: (1) number of medication items (p=0.001; Chi² test; p<0.0005 Student’s t-test), (2) length of hospital stay (p<0.0005; Chi² test), (3) presence of one or more chronic disease states (p=0.003; Chi² test) and (4) presence of one or more allergies (p=0.028; Chi² test). The ward pharmacist interventions were shown to be of clinical significance and to have a positive impact on the patients concerned. It can be concluded that the ward pharmacy service was beneficial to the patients, medical practitioners and nursing staff.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Stone, Leanne Nicole , Burton, S F
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Hospital pharmacies , Pharmaceutical services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Pharmacists -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5916 , vital:21012
- Description: Medication errors are becoming problematic in both hospital and outpatient settings worldwide. Inappropriate use of medication can cause harm to the patient and maintaining high levels of quality patient care is essential to protect all patients. Clinical pharmacy practice contributes to improved patient care by optimising medication therapy; and promoting health, wellness and disease prevention. The involvement of a pharmacist at a ward level has been shown to improve patient care; reduce mortality and morbidity rates; decrease healthcare costs; minimise medication errors; and improve outcomes of drug therapy. However, clinical pharmacy is a fairly new practice in South Africa and there are limited studies available. This study aimed to evaluate the perceived benefits of a ward-based pharmacist on the provision of pharmaceutical care to patients in a hospital setting and to consequently implement a ward-based pharmacy service. The objectives of the study were: (1) to assess, via a questionnaire, the perceptions and attitudes of medical practitioners and nurses to ward-based pharmacy prior to and after implementation of a ward-based pharmacy service, (2) to implement a ward-based pharmacy service in a selected hospital ward; (3) to document and analyse the nature of the work and activities that a ward pharmacist undertakes, and (4) to document and analyse the frequency and nature of ward pharmacist interventions. The study was conducted in a surgical ward of a private hospital in the Eastern Cape. The study design was an intervention study, using a mixed-methods design, with a convergent approach. A convenience sample of 106 patients was obtained over the eight week study period. Participation was voluntary and confidentiality was maintained at all times. Four data collection tools were used during the study and a pilot study was conducted to ensure their validity and reliability. The quantitative data was analysed statistically while the qualitative questions were analysed through coding the various responses. The results of the study showed that medical practitioners and nurses of a surgical ward had a positive attitude towards ward pharmacy both prior to and after the implementation of a ward pharmacy service. There were ward pharmacist interventions made in 50% (n=106) of the patients who participated in the study. A large percentage (57%; 50; n=87) of the ward pharmacist interventions were pharmacist-initiated interventions to optimise patient care while prescribing errors (51%; 19; n=37) were the most commonly occurring medication error. The majority of the medication items involved in the interventions (34%; 34; n=101) were related to the anti-microbial medication class. Overall, there was a 73% (36; n=49) acceptance rate of the ward pharmacist interventions that were made to both the medical practitioners and nurses. There were a number of factors that had a significant relationship with a ward pharmacist intervention being required which included: (1) number of medication items (p=0.001; Chi² test; p<0.0005 Student’s t-test), (2) length of hospital stay (p<0.0005; Chi² test), (3) presence of one or more chronic disease states (p=0.003; Chi² test) and (4) presence of one or more allergies (p=0.028; Chi² test). The ward pharmacist interventions were shown to be of clinical significance and to have a positive impact on the patients concerned. It can be concluded that the ward pharmacy service was beneficial to the patients, medical practitioners and nursing staff.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
The impact of COVID-19 on depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress levels in doctors and nurses at a South African health facility
- Authors: Finger-Motsepe, Kelebogile
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease) , Mental health
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27920 , vital:70880
- Description: Introduction: The emergence of the coronavirus disease of 2019 (Covid-19) has wrought profound and enduring transformations in global health, economic dynamics, and social interactions. However, the comprehensive quantification of the psychological repercussions of the Covid-19 pandemic remains elusive and is poised to compound the preexisting burden of mental health disorders within the general populace. Elevated transmission rates, rapid disease progression within vulnerable demographics, and the absence of definitive curative or preventive measures have collectively contributed to a heightened worldwide state of stress and anxiety. Extensive research has demonstrated that the apprehension and stress associated with Covid-19 are markedly pronounced among healthcare professionals, commonly referred to as front-line workers, in comparison to the general population. The Covid-19-related psychological distress is anticipated to act as a catalyst, exacerbating mental health conditions within high-risk groups. Aims and Objectives: This study endeavours to ascertain the prevalence and severity of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among medical doctors and nurses employed at a regional hospital in South Africa. Methodology: A cross-sectional investigation was conducted to evaluate the presence of anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms among medical doctors and nurses working at a Regional Hospital situated in the Free State Province of South Africa. A purposive sample of 200 participants, comprising all willing doctors and nurses employed at the study site, was enrolled in the study. Findings: The participants exhibited an average age of 42 years and an average tenure of approximately 72 months at the hospital. The majority of participants were of African descent, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:2.3. Female healthcare workers reported significantly higher instances of PTSD than their male counterparts. In the aggregate, 71.4percent of doctors reported symptoms indicative of depression, 73.2percent reported anxiety-related symptoms, and 19.6percent reported PTSD-related symptoms. Among nurses, 72percent displayed clinically significant symptoms of depression, 81percent exhibited anxiety-related symptoms, and 27.7percent manifested symptoms suggestive of PTSD. A moderately robust positive correlation was discerned between PTSD and Anxiety (p = .000; r = .466) as well as PTSD and Depression (p = .000; r = .315). Additionally, a strong positive correlation was identified between Anxiety and Depression (p = .000; r = .631). A statistically significant disparity (p = .030) in anxiety levels was observed among workers in different risk-prone areas. Nurses reported substantially higher levels of anxiety (p = .039; M = 10.63, sd = 4.03) compared to doctors (M = 9.01, sd = 3.80) and administrators (M = 10.50, sd = 4.32). Moreover, both nurses (M = 27.06, sd = 13.61) and administrators (M = 33.33, sd = 14.44) exhibited significantly higher instances of PTSD (p = .003) than doctors (M = 19.96, sd = 15.03). Conclusions: The healthcare workers under scrutiny reported elevated levels of anxiety and depression attributable to the Covid-19 pandemic, although the prevalence of posttraumatic stress symptoms was comparatively lower within the hospital setting. Furthermore, this study illuminates that depressive, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress symptoms were more prevalent among nurses than doctors. Additionally, healthcare professionals operating in high-risk Covid-19 environments, such as the Covid-19 ward, demonstrated heightened levels of anxiety when juxtaposed with their counterparts stationed in low-risk Covid-19 areas within the healthcare facility. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Finger-Motsepe, Kelebogile
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease) , Mental health
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27920 , vital:70880
- Description: Introduction: The emergence of the coronavirus disease of 2019 (Covid-19) has wrought profound and enduring transformations in global health, economic dynamics, and social interactions. However, the comprehensive quantification of the psychological repercussions of the Covid-19 pandemic remains elusive and is poised to compound the preexisting burden of mental health disorders within the general populace. Elevated transmission rates, rapid disease progression within vulnerable demographics, and the absence of definitive curative or preventive measures have collectively contributed to a heightened worldwide state of stress and anxiety. Extensive research has demonstrated that the apprehension and stress associated with Covid-19 are markedly pronounced among healthcare professionals, commonly referred to as front-line workers, in comparison to the general population. The Covid-19-related psychological distress is anticipated to act as a catalyst, exacerbating mental health conditions within high-risk groups. Aims and Objectives: This study endeavours to ascertain the prevalence and severity of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among medical doctors and nurses employed at a regional hospital in South Africa. Methodology: A cross-sectional investigation was conducted to evaluate the presence of anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms among medical doctors and nurses working at a Regional Hospital situated in the Free State Province of South Africa. A purposive sample of 200 participants, comprising all willing doctors and nurses employed at the study site, was enrolled in the study. Findings: The participants exhibited an average age of 42 years and an average tenure of approximately 72 months at the hospital. The majority of participants were of African descent, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:2.3. Female healthcare workers reported significantly higher instances of PTSD than their male counterparts. In the aggregate, 71.4percent of doctors reported symptoms indicative of depression, 73.2percent reported anxiety-related symptoms, and 19.6percent reported PTSD-related symptoms. Among nurses, 72percent displayed clinically significant symptoms of depression, 81percent exhibited anxiety-related symptoms, and 27.7percent manifested symptoms suggestive of PTSD. A moderately robust positive correlation was discerned between PTSD and Anxiety (p = .000; r = .466) as well as PTSD and Depression (p = .000; r = .315). Additionally, a strong positive correlation was identified between Anxiety and Depression (p = .000; r = .631). A statistically significant disparity (p = .030) in anxiety levels was observed among workers in different risk-prone areas. Nurses reported substantially higher levels of anxiety (p = .039; M = 10.63, sd = 4.03) compared to doctors (M = 9.01, sd = 3.80) and administrators (M = 10.50, sd = 4.32). Moreover, both nurses (M = 27.06, sd = 13.61) and administrators (M = 33.33, sd = 14.44) exhibited significantly higher instances of PTSD (p = .003) than doctors (M = 19.96, sd = 15.03). Conclusions: The healthcare workers under scrutiny reported elevated levels of anxiety and depression attributable to the Covid-19 pandemic, although the prevalence of posttraumatic stress symptoms was comparatively lower within the hospital setting. Furthermore, this study illuminates that depressive, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress symptoms were more prevalent among nurses than doctors. Additionally, healthcare professionals operating in high-risk Covid-19 environments, such as the Covid-19 ward, demonstrated heightened levels of anxiety when juxtaposed with their counterparts stationed in low-risk Covid-19 areas within the healthcare facility. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
The impact of pharmaceutical care services on the management of asthma patients in a primary health care clinic
- Authors: Mostert, Zhan
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Asthma -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Pharmacist and patient -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: vital:10154 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/574 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011711 , Asthma -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Pharmacist and patient -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Optimal management of a chronic disease, like asthma, requires the active participation of patients. To achieve this, patients require education about asthma. Many of the recommended components of asthma care and management might not be effective without adequate patient education. Pharmacists in community, hospital and clinic practice are well placed to provide continued information and reinforcement of key messages, in order to improve compliance with medication and the outcomes of asthma management plans. Pharmacists may be able to increase medication adherence with patient counselling and monitoring systems and by facilitating communication with physicians. However, regardless of this, it remains uncertain whether pharmacist-patient interactions improve patient outcomes, and in spite of recommendations for teamwork and a multidisciplinary approach in the education of asthma patients, medical doctors and nurses are still largely responsible for carrying out the greatest part of patient education. The objectives of this study were therefore to determine the impact of pharmaceutical care services at a primary health care level on the management and well-being of asthmatic patients; to determine the effect of complex or multi-faceted pharmaceutical interventions, in patients with asthma, on lung function, asthma knowledge, attitudes and perceived self-management efficacy, asthma related quality of life and asthma control; and to determine the extent to which pharmacotherapeutic interventions, with regards to medication changes and dosage changes, are accepted and implemented by doctors. A randomised-control study was conducted at a primary health care clinic in the Eastern Cape. A total of 120 patients were allocated to two groups of sixty patients each (a Control Group and an Intervention Group). Baseline values were measured and follow-up interviews and post-intervention data collection were conducted three months afterwards for each group. Patients in the Control Group were attended to by the clinic staff as usual. Patients in the Intervention Group were educated on their disease by a pharmacist. The use of a customised 500ml plastic bottle as a spacer was suggested and each patient’s medication was evaluated against the Standard Treatment Guidelines for the management of asthma in adults at the primary health care level and where necessary, prescribing recommendations were made. Following assessment of the medication regimens of the patients in the Intervention Group, a total of 49 prescribing recommendations were made, of which 73 percent were accepted by both the doctor and patient. After educating the patients in the Intervention Group on inhaler technique, a significant improvement in technique was observed at the 3-month follow-up assessment (p<0.05). Using a short form of the Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ(S)), a significant improvement post-intervention in mean total quality of life score (p<0.05) and mean average quality of life score (p<0.05) in the Intervention Group, were demonstrated. An improvement in mean activity limitation score in the Intervention Group post-intervention was also recorded for the activity limitation subscale of the AQLQ(S) (p<0.05). On measuring changes in asthma related knowledge, attitudes and self-efficacy, using a questionnaire (KASE-AQ), a significant improvement in mean knowledge score in the Intervention Group after the intervention (p<0.05) was also shown. With regards to lung function, both vital capacity (percent FVC) and expiratory flow volumes (percent FEV1) improved significantly in the Intervention Group (p<0.05). This study therefore demonstrated that multi-faceted pharmacist interventions, including medication assessment, asthma education, education on inhaler technique and the provision of medication aids in the form of spacers, can significantly improve the management of asthma patients and improve their well-being and quality of life.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Mostert, Zhan
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Asthma -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Pharmacist and patient -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: vital:10154 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/574 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011711 , Asthma -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Pharmacist and patient -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Optimal management of a chronic disease, like asthma, requires the active participation of patients. To achieve this, patients require education about asthma. Many of the recommended components of asthma care and management might not be effective without adequate patient education. Pharmacists in community, hospital and clinic practice are well placed to provide continued information and reinforcement of key messages, in order to improve compliance with medication and the outcomes of asthma management plans. Pharmacists may be able to increase medication adherence with patient counselling and monitoring systems and by facilitating communication with physicians. However, regardless of this, it remains uncertain whether pharmacist-patient interactions improve patient outcomes, and in spite of recommendations for teamwork and a multidisciplinary approach in the education of asthma patients, medical doctors and nurses are still largely responsible for carrying out the greatest part of patient education. The objectives of this study were therefore to determine the impact of pharmaceutical care services at a primary health care level on the management and well-being of asthmatic patients; to determine the effect of complex or multi-faceted pharmaceutical interventions, in patients with asthma, on lung function, asthma knowledge, attitudes and perceived self-management efficacy, asthma related quality of life and asthma control; and to determine the extent to which pharmacotherapeutic interventions, with regards to medication changes and dosage changes, are accepted and implemented by doctors. A randomised-control study was conducted at a primary health care clinic in the Eastern Cape. A total of 120 patients were allocated to two groups of sixty patients each (a Control Group and an Intervention Group). Baseline values were measured and follow-up interviews and post-intervention data collection were conducted three months afterwards for each group. Patients in the Control Group were attended to by the clinic staff as usual. Patients in the Intervention Group were educated on their disease by a pharmacist. The use of a customised 500ml plastic bottle as a spacer was suggested and each patient’s medication was evaluated against the Standard Treatment Guidelines for the management of asthma in adults at the primary health care level and where necessary, prescribing recommendations were made. Following assessment of the medication regimens of the patients in the Intervention Group, a total of 49 prescribing recommendations were made, of which 73 percent were accepted by both the doctor and patient. After educating the patients in the Intervention Group on inhaler technique, a significant improvement in technique was observed at the 3-month follow-up assessment (p<0.05). Using a short form of the Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ(S)), a significant improvement post-intervention in mean total quality of life score (p<0.05) and mean average quality of life score (p<0.05) in the Intervention Group, were demonstrated. An improvement in mean activity limitation score in the Intervention Group post-intervention was also recorded for the activity limitation subscale of the AQLQ(S) (p<0.05). On measuring changes in asthma related knowledge, attitudes and self-efficacy, using a questionnaire (KASE-AQ), a significant improvement in mean knowledge score in the Intervention Group after the intervention (p<0.05) was also shown. With regards to lung function, both vital capacity (percent FVC) and expiratory flow volumes (percent FEV1) improved significantly in the Intervention Group (p<0.05). This study therefore demonstrated that multi-faceted pharmacist interventions, including medication assessment, asthma education, education on inhaler technique and the provision of medication aids in the form of spacers, can significantly improve the management of asthma patients and improve their well-being and quality of life.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
The implementation of National Core Standards with specific reference to clinical leadership: A case of Frere Hospital
- Authors: Rasi, Wandisa
- Date: 2021-06
- Subjects: Health facilities -- Standards , Health services administration -- Standards
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21914 , vital:51842
- Description: BACKGROUND: Generally, many people in South Africa have difficulty accessing quality health services due to poor public service. Over 42 million citizens do not have health insurance and are growing sicker as they age. Health facilities, such as public health centers, are their only recourse. Health authorities in South Africa fail to monitor patient care effectively, as evidenced by their uninspiring record on patient experience. Anecdotes of poor patient experiences are extensive with the health ombudsman. The Office of Health Standards Compliance (OHSC) reports horrifying stories of patients sleeping on hospital floors due to the shortage of beds, patients unable to receive critical surgical treatment due to shortage of doctors, medical supplies and equipment failure or lack thereof. A few union protests have highlighted the poor quality of public healthcare. But it is not uncommon for South Africans to voice their displeasure over poor public healthcare. Health services are individualised and there is no specific interest group or community that is affected by this overall unpleasant experience. Indications of the growing public campaign against the deteriorating healthcare system may be as simple as the increasing number of medical legal claims. This study focuses on the implementation of national core standards with specific reference to clinical leadership. This study focuses on the implementation of national core standards with specific reference to clinical leadership. RESEARCH AIM: This research seeks to explore the effectiveness of the implementation of NCSs with specific reference to Clinical Leadership in Frere Hospital. It also wants to assess if the Frere hospital upholds the national core standards METHOD: qualitative research design was used in this study. Semi-structured, individual interviews were conducted. CONCLUSION: The researcher concluded that it is quite evident that the public health sector is complex and that environmental influence affect the ECDOH Functions within the health system. There is a relationship between clinical leadership and service delivery; now, to improve service delivery within the Frere hospital, strong leadership is needed to drive the change towards implementing the NCS. Ultimately, Frere hospital does not uphold the NCSs, and the staff needs to be educated on what is and how it can improve the hospital’s service delivery. RECOMMENDATIONS: Effective public leadership development, high performing and accountable leadership behavioural measurement at the most senior level at the Frere hospital is very empirical in driving effective delivery of services to patients. Effective Performance management, visible leadership role at all management levels. Performance appraisal system needs to be engineered to focus on performance and results. Recognition and Implementation of clinical leadership. Establish a culture and implementation of good governance principles in health institutions. Establish an institution based OHSC office that is visible and implement NCS through Batho Pele Principles. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, Public Health, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-06
- Authors: Rasi, Wandisa
- Date: 2021-06
- Subjects: Health facilities -- Standards , Health services administration -- Standards
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21914 , vital:51842
- Description: BACKGROUND: Generally, many people in South Africa have difficulty accessing quality health services due to poor public service. Over 42 million citizens do not have health insurance and are growing sicker as they age. Health facilities, such as public health centers, are their only recourse. Health authorities in South Africa fail to monitor patient care effectively, as evidenced by their uninspiring record on patient experience. Anecdotes of poor patient experiences are extensive with the health ombudsman. The Office of Health Standards Compliance (OHSC) reports horrifying stories of patients sleeping on hospital floors due to the shortage of beds, patients unable to receive critical surgical treatment due to shortage of doctors, medical supplies and equipment failure or lack thereof. A few union protests have highlighted the poor quality of public healthcare. But it is not uncommon for South Africans to voice their displeasure over poor public healthcare. Health services are individualised and there is no specific interest group or community that is affected by this overall unpleasant experience. Indications of the growing public campaign against the deteriorating healthcare system may be as simple as the increasing number of medical legal claims. This study focuses on the implementation of national core standards with specific reference to clinical leadership. This study focuses on the implementation of national core standards with specific reference to clinical leadership. RESEARCH AIM: This research seeks to explore the effectiveness of the implementation of NCSs with specific reference to Clinical Leadership in Frere Hospital. It also wants to assess if the Frere hospital upholds the national core standards METHOD: qualitative research design was used in this study. Semi-structured, individual interviews were conducted. CONCLUSION: The researcher concluded that it is quite evident that the public health sector is complex and that environmental influence affect the ECDOH Functions within the health system. There is a relationship between clinical leadership and service delivery; now, to improve service delivery within the Frere hospital, strong leadership is needed to drive the change towards implementing the NCS. Ultimately, Frere hospital does not uphold the NCSs, and the staff needs to be educated on what is and how it can improve the hospital’s service delivery. RECOMMENDATIONS: Effective public leadership development, high performing and accountable leadership behavioural measurement at the most senior level at the Frere hospital is very empirical in driving effective delivery of services to patients. Effective Performance management, visible leadership role at all management levels. Performance appraisal system needs to be engineered to focus on performance and results. Recognition and Implementation of clinical leadership. Establish a culture and implementation of good governance principles in health institutions. Establish an institution based OHSC office that is visible and implement NCS through Batho Pele Principles. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, Public Health, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-06
The incidence and mechanism of injuries occurring at a South African National Judo Championship
- Authors: Du Preez, Devon
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Judo injuries , Martial arts injuries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10099 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011666 , Judo injuries , Martial arts injuries
- Description: The aim of the current study was to identify and describe the incidence and mechanism of injuries that occurred to judoka at a South African national tournament. Therefore the objectives of the study were to determine the following: To describe and compare the type and incidence of injuries occurring at a South African national championship in respect of three different age groups as well as gender; To describe and compare the types of mechanisms occurring at a South African national championship in respect of three different age groups as well as gender; To describe and determine the treatment methods used by judoka at a South African national championship. To determine and describe the training methods of judoka and the potential impact on incidence of injuries at the relevant national judo championship. To achieve the aims and objectives set out in the present study, the literature regarding injury incidence and mechanisms causing those injuries were reviewed along with other martial arts, in order for comparisons to be made within judo and other martial arts. To evaluate and describe injury in judo an exploratory-descriptive epidemiological approach was used in order to gather relevant data. The use of detailed questionnaires was used to capture information regarding physical preparation for the tournament along with a screening questionnaire that captured important data relating to injuries prior to competing in the South African national tournament. In order for the main aim of the study to be achieved an injury questionnaire was presented to all injured judoka who partook in the study at the tournament. This questionnaire captured critical information regarding the occurring injury and the mechanism responsible for the injury. Judoka sampled consisted of 141 judoka of which 110 were males and 31 were females. This sample size of judoka consisted of three age groups with each group representing a different age range. This allowed for the observation of more injuries but also allowed one to compare injuries obtained by younger judoka to that of older judoka. For the purposes of this study groups 4 (ages 14 to 16), 5 (ages 17 to 19) and 6 (ages 20 and older) were used. The reason for selecting these three age groups was due to the fact that they would be participating under international regulations with strangulations and armlocks allowed for in a fight. Group 4 consisted of 49 judoka; the smallest group studied was that of group 5 and consisted of 28 judoka with group 6 being the largest sampled group with 64 judoka. Of the 141 sampled judoka 103 injuries were recorded with males obtaining more injuries than that of female judoka. The results from the study were placed into table and graph formats and described via descriptive statistics. In order to explain the variation within groups inferential statistics as well as Cohen‟s d were utilised to determine both statistical and practical significances between the different age groups. When describing statistics via the use of frequency distribution tables, statistical significance was tested via Chi2 tests of independence, Cramér‟s V was utilized to determine practical significance. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was done to determine intra-group differences with the F statistic reported for significant findings as it reports the variance of group means. The present study found that male judoka within their respective age groups competed in judo for a longer duration than that of females, that the older the judoka was the greater the likelihood that the judoka would have competed for a longer duration of time at a provincial level of judo with group 5 and 6 having competed on a provincial level longer than that of group 4 judoka. Over a 12 month period judoka sustained almost four minor injuries and less than one major injury on average. Females on average were found to have sustained more minor injuries over a period of a year than that of males. The results indicate that only 37.9 percent of judoka compete with existing injuries with more males (40.0 percent) participating with an existing injury compared to that of females at 31.5 percent. The time spent training the various judo components was similar across all three age groups with a statistically significant differences (F (1,81) =4.216, p=.043) found between the genders of group 4 males and females with males practicing more ne-waza a week. On average time spent doing gym work was 177.39 minutes a month with males training for a longer duration 192.69 minutes a month than that of females. Group 5 judoka spent the greatest time in a month doing gym training at 201.35 minutes a month. A gender difference was noted in upper body strength training (F (1,81) = 4.12, p =.046). Males favoured upper body strength training compared to that of females. A total of 103 (73.0 percent) of the sample group were injured once or more. Group 4 judoka (age 16 to 17) had the highest injury incidence for incurring a injury at least once at 75.5 percent. The injury incidence for groups 5 (age 18 to 19) and 6 (age 20 + years) for incurring at least one injury was 71.4 percent and 50.0 percent respectively. The results indicate that 72.7 percent of males reported at least one injury compared to 74.2 percent of females. The present study found that the head and neck (42.7 percent) followed by the upper body (34.0 percent) to be the anatomical regions with the highest incidence of injury. The upper body anatomical site most frequently injured as expected was the shoulder joint at 11.7 percent with the knee, the lower body site with the greatest incidence of injury. Cuts (38.8 percent) accounted for the largest proportion of injuries with the most occurring injury to males being that of a cut (45.6 percent) and sprains (37.5 percent) for females. A statistically significant difference was found between the two genders in relation to the types of occurring injuries, with a moderate practical significance noticed (Chi2 (4) = 12.33, p = .015, V = 0.35). The major mechanisms of injury to the judoka was throwing / being thrown (35.5 percent) and impacts / collisions with other judoka (33.9 percent). These mechanisms of injury were also identified as the major mechanisms leading to injury in both genders. A total of 17.7 percent of fights were terminated due to injury with fewer males (14.5 percent) having fights terminated due to a serious injury compared to that of females (29.0 percent). A statistically significant difference was found between the two genders in relation to the termination of fights due to injuries with a small practical significance noticed with (Chi2(1) = 7.93, p = .005, V = 0.19). The most identified treatment at the tournament for judo was that of icing the injured area. Male judoka indicated 36.4 percent of injuries were treated with ice with females treating 36.0 percent of their injuries with ice. Males indicated that the return to the sport after becoming injured was less (0.75 weeks) than that of females (1.71 weeks) and a statistically significant difference was found between the genders and recovering from injury (F (1,81) = 4.22, p = .043, d = 0.41).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Du Preez, Devon
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Judo injuries , Martial arts injuries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10099 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011666 , Judo injuries , Martial arts injuries
- Description: The aim of the current study was to identify and describe the incidence and mechanism of injuries that occurred to judoka at a South African national tournament. Therefore the objectives of the study were to determine the following: To describe and compare the type and incidence of injuries occurring at a South African national championship in respect of three different age groups as well as gender; To describe and compare the types of mechanisms occurring at a South African national championship in respect of three different age groups as well as gender; To describe and determine the treatment methods used by judoka at a South African national championship. To determine and describe the training methods of judoka and the potential impact on incidence of injuries at the relevant national judo championship. To achieve the aims and objectives set out in the present study, the literature regarding injury incidence and mechanisms causing those injuries were reviewed along with other martial arts, in order for comparisons to be made within judo and other martial arts. To evaluate and describe injury in judo an exploratory-descriptive epidemiological approach was used in order to gather relevant data. The use of detailed questionnaires was used to capture information regarding physical preparation for the tournament along with a screening questionnaire that captured important data relating to injuries prior to competing in the South African national tournament. In order for the main aim of the study to be achieved an injury questionnaire was presented to all injured judoka who partook in the study at the tournament. This questionnaire captured critical information regarding the occurring injury and the mechanism responsible for the injury. Judoka sampled consisted of 141 judoka of which 110 were males and 31 were females. This sample size of judoka consisted of three age groups with each group representing a different age range. This allowed for the observation of more injuries but also allowed one to compare injuries obtained by younger judoka to that of older judoka. For the purposes of this study groups 4 (ages 14 to 16), 5 (ages 17 to 19) and 6 (ages 20 and older) were used. The reason for selecting these three age groups was due to the fact that they would be participating under international regulations with strangulations and armlocks allowed for in a fight. Group 4 consisted of 49 judoka; the smallest group studied was that of group 5 and consisted of 28 judoka with group 6 being the largest sampled group with 64 judoka. Of the 141 sampled judoka 103 injuries were recorded with males obtaining more injuries than that of female judoka. The results from the study were placed into table and graph formats and described via descriptive statistics. In order to explain the variation within groups inferential statistics as well as Cohen‟s d were utilised to determine both statistical and practical significances between the different age groups. When describing statistics via the use of frequency distribution tables, statistical significance was tested via Chi2 tests of independence, Cramér‟s V was utilized to determine practical significance. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was done to determine intra-group differences with the F statistic reported for significant findings as it reports the variance of group means. The present study found that male judoka within their respective age groups competed in judo for a longer duration than that of females, that the older the judoka was the greater the likelihood that the judoka would have competed for a longer duration of time at a provincial level of judo with group 5 and 6 having competed on a provincial level longer than that of group 4 judoka. Over a 12 month period judoka sustained almost four minor injuries and less than one major injury on average. Females on average were found to have sustained more minor injuries over a period of a year than that of males. The results indicate that only 37.9 percent of judoka compete with existing injuries with more males (40.0 percent) participating with an existing injury compared to that of females at 31.5 percent. The time spent training the various judo components was similar across all three age groups with a statistically significant differences (F (1,81) =4.216, p=.043) found between the genders of group 4 males and females with males practicing more ne-waza a week. On average time spent doing gym work was 177.39 minutes a month with males training for a longer duration 192.69 minutes a month than that of females. Group 5 judoka spent the greatest time in a month doing gym training at 201.35 minutes a month. A gender difference was noted in upper body strength training (F (1,81) = 4.12, p =.046). Males favoured upper body strength training compared to that of females. A total of 103 (73.0 percent) of the sample group were injured once or more. Group 4 judoka (age 16 to 17) had the highest injury incidence for incurring a injury at least once at 75.5 percent. The injury incidence for groups 5 (age 18 to 19) and 6 (age 20 + years) for incurring at least one injury was 71.4 percent and 50.0 percent respectively. The results indicate that 72.7 percent of males reported at least one injury compared to 74.2 percent of females. The present study found that the head and neck (42.7 percent) followed by the upper body (34.0 percent) to be the anatomical regions with the highest incidence of injury. The upper body anatomical site most frequently injured as expected was the shoulder joint at 11.7 percent with the knee, the lower body site with the greatest incidence of injury. Cuts (38.8 percent) accounted for the largest proportion of injuries with the most occurring injury to males being that of a cut (45.6 percent) and sprains (37.5 percent) for females. A statistically significant difference was found between the two genders in relation to the types of occurring injuries, with a moderate practical significance noticed (Chi2 (4) = 12.33, p = .015, V = 0.35). The major mechanisms of injury to the judoka was throwing / being thrown (35.5 percent) and impacts / collisions with other judoka (33.9 percent). These mechanisms of injury were also identified as the major mechanisms leading to injury in both genders. A total of 17.7 percent of fights were terminated due to injury with fewer males (14.5 percent) having fights terminated due to a serious injury compared to that of females (29.0 percent). A statistically significant difference was found between the two genders in relation to the termination of fights due to injuries with a small practical significance noticed with (Chi2(1) = 7.93, p = .005, V = 0.19). The most identified treatment at the tournament for judo was that of icing the injured area. Male judoka indicated 36.4 percent of injuries were treated with ice with females treating 36.0 percent of their injuries with ice. Males indicated that the return to the sport after becoming injured was less (0.75 weeks) than that of females (1.71 weeks) and a statistically significant difference was found between the genders and recovering from injury (F (1,81) = 4.22, p = .043, d = 0.41).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The influence of an adapted knee angle, as determined by isokinetic assessment, on sprint starting performance
- Authors: Schultz, Adrian Brent
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Sprinting -- South Africa -- Physiological aspects -- Testing , Muscle strength -- Testing , Runners (Sports) -- South Africa -- Testing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11029 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/317 , Sprinting -- South Africa -- Physiological aspects -- Testing , Muscle strength -- Testing , Runners (Sports) -- South Africa -- Testing
- Description: Muscle strength has been identified as an important contributor to athletic performance. Little attention however, has been paid to the specific relationship between peak isokinetic muscle strength and sprint starting performance. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of an adapted front knee angle, as determined by isokinetic assessment (the angle of peak torque production), on starting performance. Sixteen track sprinters, of elite-national or competitive-regional standard, were asked to perform eight sprints over 50m using four separate starting techniques. Technique 1 featured the athlete’s usual starting preferences while Techniques 2, 3 and 4 featured a standardised set of starting preferences with experimental modifications of the front knee angle in the “set” position. Isokinetic muscle strength was measured at slow (60°/s) and fast (240°/s) test speeds in order to determine the angle of peak torque production for concentric knee extension of each subject’s lead leg. Using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Post Hoc analysis (LSD), no significant differences (p>0.05) were observed between the experimental techniques for: block time, force-time measures during block time, sprint times, sprint velocity and acceleratio n measures at intervals up to 50m. Significant differences (p<0.05) were however observed between reaction times for the experimental techniques. Slower reaction times are most likely due to increased upper body pretension, resulting from the increased hip elevation seen for these techniques. The results indicate that increased hip elevation may have delayed the initiation of the relevant motor response required to affect an optimal sprint start. Technique 1 resulted in the shortest reaction times, shortest block times, fastest sprint times and greatest sprint velocities for all four techniques. This result was possibly due to the athlete’s experience with, and repeated use of, this technique. The experimental techniques therefore provided no added advantage over the subject’s preferred starting technique and did not significantly optimise sprint starting performance. The results show that modification of the front knee angle had no significant influence on sprint starting performance and sprint running ve locity or acceleration patterns up to 50m. Using Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient to determine the strongest correlations between isokinetic knee strength and sprint starting performance, analysis revealed that the strongest relationships were found between sprint starting performance expressed as acceleration and isokinetic knee strength expressed as relative peak torque and absolute peak torque. For Technique 1 the strongest correlation was found between acceleration (30m - 40m) and relative peak torque as measured at a test speed of 240°/s (r = 0.62). For the remaining experimental techniques, the strongest correlation was found between acceleration (10m - 20m) and relative peak torque as measured at a test speed of 60°/s (r = 0.53) for Technique 2, between acceleration (40m - 50m) and peak torque measured at a test speed of 60°/s (r = 0.72) for Technique 3, and between acceleration (0m - 5m) and peak torque as measured at a test speed of 240°/s (r = 0.71) for Technique 4. These results suggest that isokinetic muscle strength does not correlate strongly with sprint starting performance and that additional factors, such as neuromuscular organisation and muscle fibre typing, possibly make a greater contribution to optimal sprint starting performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Schultz, Adrian Brent
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Sprinting -- South Africa -- Physiological aspects -- Testing , Muscle strength -- Testing , Runners (Sports) -- South Africa -- Testing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11029 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/317 , Sprinting -- South Africa -- Physiological aspects -- Testing , Muscle strength -- Testing , Runners (Sports) -- South Africa -- Testing
- Description: Muscle strength has been identified as an important contributor to athletic performance. Little attention however, has been paid to the specific relationship between peak isokinetic muscle strength and sprint starting performance. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of an adapted front knee angle, as determined by isokinetic assessment (the angle of peak torque production), on starting performance. Sixteen track sprinters, of elite-national or competitive-regional standard, were asked to perform eight sprints over 50m using four separate starting techniques. Technique 1 featured the athlete’s usual starting preferences while Techniques 2, 3 and 4 featured a standardised set of starting preferences with experimental modifications of the front knee angle in the “set” position. Isokinetic muscle strength was measured at slow (60°/s) and fast (240°/s) test speeds in order to determine the angle of peak torque production for concentric knee extension of each subject’s lead leg. Using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Post Hoc analysis (LSD), no significant differences (p>0.05) were observed between the experimental techniques for: block time, force-time measures during block time, sprint times, sprint velocity and acceleratio n measures at intervals up to 50m. Significant differences (p<0.05) were however observed between reaction times for the experimental techniques. Slower reaction times are most likely due to increased upper body pretension, resulting from the increased hip elevation seen for these techniques. The results indicate that increased hip elevation may have delayed the initiation of the relevant motor response required to affect an optimal sprint start. Technique 1 resulted in the shortest reaction times, shortest block times, fastest sprint times and greatest sprint velocities for all four techniques. This result was possibly due to the athlete’s experience with, and repeated use of, this technique. The experimental techniques therefore provided no added advantage over the subject’s preferred starting technique and did not significantly optimise sprint starting performance. The results show that modification of the front knee angle had no significant influence on sprint starting performance and sprint running ve locity or acceleration patterns up to 50m. Using Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient to determine the strongest correlations between isokinetic knee strength and sprint starting performance, analysis revealed that the strongest relationships were found between sprint starting performance expressed as acceleration and isokinetic knee strength expressed as relative peak torque and absolute peak torque. For Technique 1 the strongest correlation was found between acceleration (30m - 40m) and relative peak torque as measured at a test speed of 240°/s (r = 0.62). For the remaining experimental techniques, the strongest correlation was found between acceleration (10m - 20m) and relative peak torque as measured at a test speed of 60°/s (r = 0.53) for Technique 2, between acceleration (40m - 50m) and peak torque measured at a test speed of 60°/s (r = 0.72) for Technique 3, and between acceleration (0m - 5m) and peak torque as measured at a test speed of 240°/s (r = 0.71) for Technique 4. These results suggest that isokinetic muscle strength does not correlate strongly with sprint starting performance and that additional factors, such as neuromuscular organisation and muscle fibre typing, possibly make a greater contribution to optimal sprint starting performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The influence of corporatization on the professional identity of community pharmacists
- Kubashe, Nomachina Theopatra
- Authors: Kubashe, Nomachina Theopatra
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Pharmacy -- Social aspects -- South Africa Pharmacist and patient -- South Africa , Communities of practice
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18189 , vital:28586
- Description: As a potential main player in the primary health care sector and the impending National Health Insurance (NHI), community pharmacists could make a significant contribution to easing the health care burden in South Africa. Recent legislative and organizational changes related to the corporatization of pharmacy in South Africa have impacted significantly on the profession and stand to weaken the already ‘tenuous’ professional identity of pharmacists in the country. Since community pharmacists are viewed as potential main players in the primary health care sector, the influence of corporatization on pharmacists’ identities and their concomitant ability to contribute to easing the health care burden in South Africa need to be considered. In this regard, this study examined the influence that corporatization has had on the professional identity of community pharmacists practicing in the Nelson Mandela Bay area of South Africa. That is, in an effort to understand the influence that corporatization has had on changing professional identities and practices the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours of community pharmacists regarding the philosophy and practice of pharmacy were explored. This included ascertaining community pharmacists’ self-perception of their professional identity and the perception of users of these community pharmacies. The study was conducted from an interpretative epistemological paradigm, based on a philosophy of pragmatism. Data collection was conducted in two phases and a qualitative approach, which included in-depth and semi-structured interviews, was adopted as a design. Phase one investigated the self-perceptions of sixteen community pharmacists, equally distributed between independent and corporate pharmacies in the Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB). Phase two examined the perceptions of thirty-two end-users of the pharmacies included in the study. Data from both phases were then analysed and interpreted. Following the identification of seven core professional identities, namely pharmacists as custodian or keeper of medicines; primary health care givers; confidante and carer; jaded; astute and credible; corporate; and independent, it was determined that corporatization has, to various degrees, had an effect on the undermining of Nelson Mandela Bay community pharmacists’ view of themselves as skilled professionals in the health care sector. In short, it was found that corporatization is believed to have blurred the boundaries related to what it means to be a pharmacist and what role pharmacists should play in the provision of public health care. Corporatization does not appear to have influenced the patients’ or pharmacy end-users’ perceptions of the pharmacist, and furthermore does not play a major role in their choice of pharmacy. It is the perception of pharmacists in this study that with the introduction of legislative changes, more so corporatization, they experienced an undermining of their professional skill and disregard for costs involved in becoming a pharmacist. The perceived undermining of the professional skill of pharmacists threatens the valuable contribution that community pharmacists can make to balancing the country’s socio-economic status by appropriately and efficiently assisting in preventing, managing and/or reducing the disease burden in South Africa. Corporatization of the community pharmacy sector seems to have realized the government’s intention of making medication affordable to its citizens, however, the certainty of whether corporatization benefits patients that are in need of access remains to be seen. Community pharmacists could in fact, capitalize on the identification and enactment of their clinical skill (pharmaceutical and social caregiving) as this skill appears to be a tool that will allow pharmacists meaningful transition to being real contributors of primary health care in the imminent introduction of the NHI. At the same time, recognition of the role a pharmacist plays in primary health care will be supporting the government in its endeavours to making medicine accessible and affordable to all South African citizens without compromising their health needs. Ultimately, pharmacists can assist in the balancing and/or improvement of the socio-economic status of our society and the country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Kubashe, Nomachina Theopatra
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Pharmacy -- Social aspects -- South Africa Pharmacist and patient -- South Africa , Communities of practice
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18189 , vital:28586
- Description: As a potential main player in the primary health care sector and the impending National Health Insurance (NHI), community pharmacists could make a significant contribution to easing the health care burden in South Africa. Recent legislative and organizational changes related to the corporatization of pharmacy in South Africa have impacted significantly on the profession and stand to weaken the already ‘tenuous’ professional identity of pharmacists in the country. Since community pharmacists are viewed as potential main players in the primary health care sector, the influence of corporatization on pharmacists’ identities and their concomitant ability to contribute to easing the health care burden in South Africa need to be considered. In this regard, this study examined the influence that corporatization has had on the professional identity of community pharmacists practicing in the Nelson Mandela Bay area of South Africa. That is, in an effort to understand the influence that corporatization has had on changing professional identities and practices the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours of community pharmacists regarding the philosophy and practice of pharmacy were explored. This included ascertaining community pharmacists’ self-perception of their professional identity and the perception of users of these community pharmacies. The study was conducted from an interpretative epistemological paradigm, based on a philosophy of pragmatism. Data collection was conducted in two phases and a qualitative approach, which included in-depth and semi-structured interviews, was adopted as a design. Phase one investigated the self-perceptions of sixteen community pharmacists, equally distributed between independent and corporate pharmacies in the Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB). Phase two examined the perceptions of thirty-two end-users of the pharmacies included in the study. Data from both phases were then analysed and interpreted. Following the identification of seven core professional identities, namely pharmacists as custodian or keeper of medicines; primary health care givers; confidante and carer; jaded; astute and credible; corporate; and independent, it was determined that corporatization has, to various degrees, had an effect on the undermining of Nelson Mandela Bay community pharmacists’ view of themselves as skilled professionals in the health care sector. In short, it was found that corporatization is believed to have blurred the boundaries related to what it means to be a pharmacist and what role pharmacists should play in the provision of public health care. Corporatization does not appear to have influenced the patients’ or pharmacy end-users’ perceptions of the pharmacist, and furthermore does not play a major role in their choice of pharmacy. It is the perception of pharmacists in this study that with the introduction of legislative changes, more so corporatization, they experienced an undermining of their professional skill and disregard for costs involved in becoming a pharmacist. The perceived undermining of the professional skill of pharmacists threatens the valuable contribution that community pharmacists can make to balancing the country’s socio-economic status by appropriately and efficiently assisting in preventing, managing and/or reducing the disease burden in South Africa. Corporatization of the community pharmacy sector seems to have realized the government’s intention of making medication affordable to its citizens, however, the certainty of whether corporatization benefits patients that are in need of access remains to be seen. Community pharmacists could in fact, capitalize on the identification and enactment of their clinical skill (pharmaceutical and social caregiving) as this skill appears to be a tool that will allow pharmacists meaningful transition to being real contributors of primary health care in the imminent introduction of the NHI. At the same time, recognition of the role a pharmacist plays in primary health care will be supporting the government in its endeavours to making medicine accessible and affordable to all South African citizens without compromising their health needs. Ultimately, pharmacists can assist in the balancing and/or improvement of the socio-economic status of our society and the country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The influence of institutionalised regulations on the emotional wellbeing of non-traditional gender identifying tertiary graduates
- Authors: Lubbe, Maritza
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Gender nonconformity , Transgender people -- Identity Transgender people Transgender youth -- Identity Developmental psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40544 , vital:36181
- Description: Trans* experiences have been and are currently still understood within systems that are inherently heteronormatively inclined and which has produced a system that is ideologically driven by the gender binary. Consequently, societies are not designed to accommodate everyone equally, thus forcing non-traditional gender identifying individuals to grapple and adapt to this sometimes seemingly ignorant world. This grappling and adaptation takes various different forms for different people, and thus it is expected that this would elicit a variety of different consequences for emotional wellbeing. One of the formal institutions that has shown sluggish transformation in terms of gender-based transformation is tertiary educational institutions. Here traditional binaries are rooted everywhere from application form information to bathroom use on campus. This study explored the influence living and working in higher educational institutions have had on the emotional wellbeing of Trans* individuals, who have graduated. Along with an acknowledgement of the inherent complexity of gender identity, Trans* in the context of this study can be understood as shorthand used to refer to individuals who identify as transgender, transsexual, and/or gender non-conforming. This exploration was embarked upon through a qualitative research enquiry into the lived realities of Trans* graduates. Instead of a focus on current Trans* students, this study drew on its sample through gender organisations to recruit participants who are recent graduates and openly identify as Trans*. It was deemed appropriate given that graduates may be able to reflect on their overall tertiary experience. Findings indicated that Trans* graduates experienced significantly lowered levels of emotional wellbeing, which tapped into various components of mental health, while they attended these institutions. These included a negative impact on self-esteem, as well as high levels of depression and other mental health concerns. Themes of exclusion and access to transformational power were also uncovered. It was found that intersections of race and gender also influenced participant’s experiences. It was additionally found that Trans* graduates did not exclusively experience the impact of tertiary education systems as impairing, but rather there was also an acknowledgement of the existing efforts and the potential for these spaces to become more inclusive. This study contributes to a growing body of evidence on Trans* experiences, by highlighting the plight of Trans* individuals within tertiary educational institutions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Lubbe, Maritza
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Gender nonconformity , Transgender people -- Identity Transgender people Transgender youth -- Identity Developmental psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40544 , vital:36181
- Description: Trans* experiences have been and are currently still understood within systems that are inherently heteronormatively inclined and which has produced a system that is ideologically driven by the gender binary. Consequently, societies are not designed to accommodate everyone equally, thus forcing non-traditional gender identifying individuals to grapple and adapt to this sometimes seemingly ignorant world. This grappling and adaptation takes various different forms for different people, and thus it is expected that this would elicit a variety of different consequences for emotional wellbeing. One of the formal institutions that has shown sluggish transformation in terms of gender-based transformation is tertiary educational institutions. Here traditional binaries are rooted everywhere from application form information to bathroom use on campus. This study explored the influence living and working in higher educational institutions have had on the emotional wellbeing of Trans* individuals, who have graduated. Along with an acknowledgement of the inherent complexity of gender identity, Trans* in the context of this study can be understood as shorthand used to refer to individuals who identify as transgender, transsexual, and/or gender non-conforming. This exploration was embarked upon through a qualitative research enquiry into the lived realities of Trans* graduates. Instead of a focus on current Trans* students, this study drew on its sample through gender organisations to recruit participants who are recent graduates and openly identify as Trans*. It was deemed appropriate given that graduates may be able to reflect on their overall tertiary experience. Findings indicated that Trans* graduates experienced significantly lowered levels of emotional wellbeing, which tapped into various components of mental health, while they attended these institutions. These included a negative impact on self-esteem, as well as high levels of depression and other mental health concerns. Themes of exclusion and access to transformational power were also uncovered. It was found that intersections of race and gender also influenced participant’s experiences. It was additionally found that Trans* graduates did not exclusively experience the impact of tertiary education systems as impairing, but rather there was also an acknowledgement of the existing efforts and the potential for these spaces to become more inclusive. This study contributes to a growing body of evidence on Trans* experiences, by highlighting the plight of Trans* individuals within tertiary educational institutions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019