bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kennis of wysheid vir verpleegkunde?
Authors: Botes A.
Published: November 2012

Nursing Science is the knowledge content for nursing. The goal of nursing is to promote, maintain and restore people’s health. To provide for the health needs of the South African society Nursing Science must generate the right kind of knowledge. The question of the article is whether Nursing Science needs knowledge or wisdom? The perpectives on knowledge of Maxwell (1988) and Rossouw (1993) are studied. The conclusion is that Nursing Science needs knowledge and wisdom. Arguments are given to support this conclusion.
Ethics of justice vs the ethics of care in moral decision making
Authors: Botes A.
Published: November 2012

The question to be addressed in this paper is : How can the ethics of justice and the ethics of care be used complementary to each other in ethical decision making within the health care team? Various arguments are presented that justify the reasons that the ethics of justice and the ethics of care should be used complementary to each other for effective ethical decision making within the health care team. The objective is to explore and describe the compatibility of the ethics of justice and the ethics of care from two perspectives: firstly an analysis of the characteristics of the two ethical theories, and secondly the scientific-philosophical viewpoints of these theories. The two theories are incompatible when viewed from these perspectives. For a probable solution to this incompatibility arguments are presented from the perspectives of reflection and virtue-based ethics.
The role of community nurses in the rehabilitation of people with severe disabilities
Authors: Alant E.
Published: November 2012

This article focuses on the importance of community nurses’ involvement in the identification and early referral and intervention of children and adults who have very little or no speech. The use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication strategies with nonspeaking children and adults are described in terms of the different kinds of systems that can be used as well as the general principles involved in working with people with severe disabilities. In conclusion, it is emphasized that close collaboration between community nurses and rehabilitation specialists is vital in ensuring that a difference is made in the lives of people with severe disabilities in this country.
Die bestuur van didaktiese steunstelsels aan ‘n verplegingskollege
Authors: Pullen A. , Botes A.C.
Published: November 2012

The learning accompanists (nurse educator), in the didactic situation within the context of a nursing college, is midst a process of transformation. This transformation has a direct influence on the learning accompanists didactic role fulfilment. Didactic support systems enables the learning accompanist to fulfil her/his didactic role. These didactic support systems should be managed during the process of transformation, in such a way that it enables the learning accompanist to fulfil her/his didactic role. A new creative approach to the management of the didactic situation is necessary. The goal of this study was to describe guidelines for the management of didactic support systems, at a nursing college, to enable the learning accompanist to fulfil her/his didactic role. An inductive, qualitative, contextual, exploring, descriptive strategy was used to reach the goal of the study. No explicit conceptual framework was used as point of departure. Because the participants are midst a process of transformation, their knowledge and experience was used as source of data, as they can express their needs and views the best. The goal of this study was reached by setting four objectives. The uniqueness of the study lies in the relevance within the current time frame context and that it expresses the needs of the learner accompanists and the views of the managers at a nursing college. An abundance of possibilities for further research was created.
Recurriculating to a problem-based learning curriculum: The WITS experience
Authors: Mc Inerney P.A.
Published: November 2012

The reasons for changing from a traditional curriculum to a problem- based learning curriculum are outlined. The process used in preparing for this change is described. The planning phase made use of workshops, core committees and international workshops and visits. Preparation of the necessary resources are enumerated, as are the preparation of the human resources with which the department is affiliated. The early implementation phase describes some of the problems which were encountered and the solutions which were ascribed. Finally an informal evaluation of the first experiences of problem-based learning is presented.
The integration of the rehabilitation of psychiatric patients into the Primary Health Care System
Authors: Sokhela N.E. , Uys L.R.
Published: November 2012

This study done in rural and semi-urban clinics examined the ability of primary health care nurses in providing rehabilitation of psychiatric patients in the Primary Health Care service. The objectives of the study were to train and evaluate registered nurses’ ability to implement rehabilitation to psychiatric patients in the community. Registered nurses were trained over a period of 10 days. Each client who visited the clinic had a rehabilitation plan drawn with the client and family. Families participated in the training of clients while nurses were trained to identify target symptoms, draw a plan to be followed by the client and his family, set rehabilitation goals and the steps to achieve the goals. The project was implemented over a period of 12 months. Records were then reviewed 1 year after implementation and at 18 months to determine the performance of nurses. Evaluation was done per clinic. Each clinic was evaluated and differences were found and where performance was poor, re-education was done. Each clinic was seen as a case. A record review was done to determine the level of rehabilitation based on the following: - identification of target symptoms - plan for the patient - plan for the family - setting of rehabilitation goals - steps to achieve goals - level of vocational rehabilitation
Die verskynsel van gesinne wat betrokke is by besluitneming oor onttrekking van lewensondersteunende behandeling
Authors: Oberholster M. , Gmeiner A. , Poggenpoel M.
Published: November 2012

The overall objective of this study was to explore and describe the phenomenon of families who are involved in deciding about withdrawal of life-support treatment of a family member. A phenomenon analysis was undertaken in two phases. During the first phase, secondary analysis of primary data was done on the family used in Burger’s study (1996:1-175) and was followed up by phenomenological interviews with families used as member checking from the same circumstances and according to the same criteria that Burger (1996:1 - 185) used in her study. Data were analysed in collaboration with an independent coder. The family used as member checking in this study is also used as data control. A literature control was conducted as part of data control. The themes that were identified included were: physical and bodily experiences of families; defence mechanisms used by families to cope with grief; emotional experiences of families; need of knowledge / perceptions / outlook on life / internal conflict / feelings of guilt/ ability to make decisions / respect of patient wishes / the effect of time and prior experiences; support needed by an given to families; spiritual and supernatural experiences / hope / acceptance / ability to ‘let go’ of the patient. In phase two, guidelines were described for psychiatric nurse specialists to mobilise resources for families to promote, maintain and restore their mental health as an integral part of health.
Finansiële voorspraak: ideaal of werklikheid?
Authors: Greeff E. , Treadwell I.
Published: November 2012

It seems that in spite of soaring medical costs and a poor economic climate, financial advocacy for patients is not general practice. A question that arises is what part nurses play and what their perceptions on financial advocacy for patients are. A non-experimental descriptive study was done to determine what nurses’ perceptions on financial advocacy are and how knowledgeable they are about the costs of disposable dispensary stock. Thirty patient accounts were analysed and questionnaires were completed by a convenience sample of thirty two registered nurses who had permanent appointments in high care or intensive care units. Results : On average nurses control the utilization of 15,8% of each of the prescription accounts. Only 12,5% of respondents had formal education on their responsibility in keeping costs low. The majority (60%) of the 50% of respondents who had previously received information had performed financial advocacy although 94% agreed that they have the responsibility to do so. A mere 9% was achieved on the knowledge of the costs involved in using consumable products from the dispensary.
Endometriose by Tampon Gebruikers
Authors: Roets L
Published: November 2012

Endometriosis has been recognized as one of the possible causes for infertility. If endometriosis occurs more often in a women who uses tampons comparing to those who do not, it is an important point of discussion to the modern women and nurses.
Die Verskynsel van Gesinne wat betrokke is by BGSluitnGITlincJ oor Onttrekking van Lewensondersteunende Behandeling
Authors: Oberholster M
Published: November 2012

The overall objective of this study was to explore and describe the phenomenon of families who are involved in deciding about withdrawal of life-support treatment of a family member. A phenomenon analysis was undertaken in two phases. During the first phase, secondary analysis of primary data was done on the family used in Burger’s study (1996:1-175) and was followed up by phenomenological interviews with families used as member checking from the same circumstances and according to the same criteria that Burger (1996:1 - 185) used in her study. Data were analysed in collaboration with an independent coder. The family used as member checking in this study is also used as data control. A literature control was conducted as part of data control. The themes that were identified included were: physical and bodily experiences of families; defence mechanisms used by families to cope with grief; emotional experiences of families; need of knowledge / perceptions / outlook on life / internal conflict / feelings of guilt/ ability to make decisions / respect of patient wishes / the effect of time and prior experiences; support needed by an given to families; spiritual and supernatural experiences / hope / acceptance / ability to ‘let go’ of the patient. In phase two, guidelines were described for psychiatric nurse specialists to mobilise resources for families to promote, maintain and restore their mental health as an integral part of health.
The experience of education students in the Technolab. Do engineers and educationalists have to co-operate?
Authors: Myburgh CPH
Published: November 2012

The purpose of this study was firstly to explore and describe post graduate students’ experiences of Technology Education in the TechnoLab and secondly to deduct recommendations to assist and facilitate the learning process of students in the TechnoLab. The research design can be described as qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual. Twenty-eight post graduate students in Technology Education participated in a workshop at the TechnoLab for one morning session. The aim of this workshop was to expose them to the socalled technological process, which they had already studied theoretically.
Adolescents previously involved in Satanism experiencing mental health problems
Authors: Heathcote H
Published: November 2012

No research has previously been done regarding the phenomenon of adolescents who have previously been involved in Satanism and who experience obstacles in their strive for mental health. Adolescents previously involved in Satanism present behavioral problems like aggressive outbursts, depression, “ psychosis” or suicide attempts, that could lead to suicide. In the phenomenonanalysis semi-structured, phenomenological interviews were performed with the respondents and their parents. The respondents were requested to write a naïve sketch about their life. After completion of the data-control, guidelines for nursing staff were set.
Parasuicide among youth in a general hospital in South Africa
Authors: Mhlongo T
Published: November 2012

Parasuicide cases among youth (15-24 years) referred to the clinical psychology section of a regional hospital from 1995 to 1998 were reviewed. In all 100 cases (37 males and 63 females) were identified being about 10% of the caseload. As part of the clinical psychological assessment sociodemographic, clinical characteristics, trigger factors, employed methods and suicide intentions were analysed. Most patients were students (79%) or unemployed (16%). The major method employed to attempt suicide was ingestion of harmful substances (like paraffin, pesticides or battery acid)(73%). Acute social conflicts (38%), socio-economic deprivation (17%), AIDS phobia (17%), academic failure (14%), teenage pregnancy (10%) and mental illness (5%) triggered suicide attempts. Fifty-eight percent of the attempts were categorised as demonstrative and 27% as genuine. The psychodynamics of parasuicides are discussed in case studies and with reference to other studies.
Student Nurses' Learning Needs & Expectations in the Clinical Learning Units
Authors: Chabeli M
Published: November 2012

This paper describes and explores the clinical learning needs and expectations of student nurses. An exploratory, descriptive and qualitative design, which is contextual in nature, was used where a focus group interview was conducted with the final year basic students undergoing a four year comprehensive diploma course leading to registration as a professional nurse. Tecsh’s (in Cresswell, 1994:155) method of data analysis was employed. Eight categories were identified as follows: communication; role modelling; up-to-date knowledge and experience; continuous supervision; assessment and evaluation; scientific process; management; professional practice and student status. A recommendation deduced from the conclusions made on the identified clinical learning needs and expectations of the students should enable teachers to address the long standing problem of how students should learn.
The effect of the Maternal Care Manual of the Perinatal Education Programme on the Attitude of Mid wives towards their work
Authors: Theron GB
Published: November 2012

In this study the changes in attitude of midwives towards their work following completion of the Maternal Care Manual of the Perinatal Education Programme (PEP), were determined.
The function and impact of women's organizations on community development and rural primary health care
Authors: Mogotlane SM , Uys L
Published: November 2012

When one explores the health problems of developing countries such as South Africa, the importance of primary health care becomes clear. The multiplicity of the health problems coupled with the lack of resources makes it imperative for government within the primary health care approach to call upon communities to participate in the solution thereof and community participation and development inherent in primary health care become the key objectives to realize and sustain a healthy living. However, without structures and processes to involve the community in their own health, the ideal of health for all embodied in the concept of primary health care will not be realized. One strategy for such participation is for primary health care workers to facilitate the organization of women into development-focused groups in the community.
The promotion of mental health of adolescents in a township in Swaziland
Authors: Siphepho J.S. , Gmeiner A.C.
Published: November 2012

A number of adolescents have been observed drinking alcohol, pushing and abusing drugs and also stealing cars. A lot of adolescents idle in the township streets, girls are falling pregnant and dropping out of school. No research has been done to elicit the opinions of families on the everyday life of the adolescents in this township. The objectives of this research were twofold, namely: To explore and describe the families’ opinions on the everyday life of adolescents in a specific township in Swaziland, and to describe guidelines for advanced psychiatric nurse practitioners to assist these families to mobilize resources in order to promote, maintain and restore mental health as integral part of health of adolescents in this township. A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual design was used where the research was conducted in two phases. Trustworthiness measures as well as ethical measures were applied throughout the research. Five categories were identified from the result of the focus group interviews with families: Adolescents presenting ineffective communication patterns due to lack of support from their families; adolescents engaging into risky lifestyles related to lack of support and healthy relationships with their parents; families unable to create a supportive and conducive environment for their adolescents due to their focus on own family stumbling blocks and non-availability of recreational centres related to lack of a supportive and conducive environment in the community and inadequate accommodation leading to overcrowding. Guidelines for advanced psychiatric nurse practitioners were deducted from identified themes and the literature control.
Primary care drug therapy training: the solution for phc nurses?
Authors: Rothmann J.C. , Gerber J.J.
Published: November 2012

The priority of the National Health System in South Africa is primary health care (PHC). The approach involves a health system led by PHC services and includes personal and curative services for acute minor ailments delivered by PHC nurses. The nurses are also responsible for the treatment of these ailments with essential drugs according to protocols as proposed in the Essential Drugs List. A before-after experimental research design was used to evaluate the effect of a competencybased primary care drug therapy (PCDT) training programme for PHC nurses in the treatment of acute minor ailments. An experimental group (n=35) and control group (n=31) consisting of registered nurses undergoing training in PHC at Gold Fields Nursing College were randomly selected. The results showed a significant increase in prescribing outcomes and medicine utilisation.
Trauma patients' rights during resuscitation
Authors: Bruce J.C.
Published: November 2012

Doctors and nurses working in hospital emergency departments face ethical and moral conflicts more so than in other health care units. Traditional curricular approaches to health professional education have been embedded in a discriminatory societal context and as such have not prepared health professionals adequately for the ethical realities of their practice. Furthermore, the discourse on ethical theories and ethical principles do not provide clear-cut solutions to ethical dilemmas but rather serve as a guide to ethical decision- making. Within the arena of trauma and resuscitation, fundamental ethical principles such as respect for autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence and justice cannot be taken as absolutes as these may in themselves create moral conflict. Resuscitation room activities require a balance between what is “ ethically" correct and what is “pragmatically required” . Because of the urgent nature of a resuscitation event, this balance is often under threat, with resultant transgression of patients’ rights. This article explores the sources of ethical and moral issues in trauma care and proposes a culture of human rights to provide a context for preserving and protecting trauma patients’ rights during resuscitation. Recommendations for education and research are alluded to in concluding the article.
The perceptions of Kwazulu-Natal nursing students about the discipline
Authors: Uys LR
Published: November 2012

This article reports on a descriptive study aimed at exploring the perceptions of student nurses about the past, present and future of the discipline. In-depth interviews with 12 students from KwaZulu- Natal were transcribed and analysed. Students showed a realistic appraisal of the discipline. They valued the essence of the profession, and were positive about their work and their training. They felt, however that nurses are not treated well by others, that the working conditions are poor and the quality of care often bad. They saw their current role as more autonomous than in the past, and saw the nurse as moving more into the community, becoming more specialised, and more entrepreneurial in future. They saw the challenges of the future in the areas of quality of care, improving training, recognition of the profession, and management, and dealing with the problem of HIV/AIDS.
The implementation of the choice on termination of pregnancy act: some empirical findings
Authors: Engelbrecht MC , Pelser AJ , Ngwena Charles , Van Rensburg HCJ
Published: November 2012

The Choice on Termination o f Pregnancy Act o f 1996substantially liberalised abortion law. Whilst a substantial number of terminations of pregnancies (TOPs) have already been performed in terms of the new Act, it has also surfaced that an array of factors of various kinds may impede its further implementation and operation. A study was undertaken to determine the nature and extent of any such impediments to the implementation of the Choice on Termination o f Pregnancy Act. More specifically a survey was conducted amongst a sample of 75 women who had undergone a TOP since the implementation of the Act; health professionals and social workers who provide TOP services (n=16); and health professionals and social workers who are in a position to refer women to TOP facilities (n=63). Overall, the clients were well treated at the TOP facilities, and were satisfied with the service given to them. However, post-counselling and to a lesser extent pre-counselling, is lacking. Counselling is important as a considerable proportion of the clients suffered from emotional feelings usually associated with depression and/or self-reproach before and after the termination procedure. Furthermore these clients did not usually discuss their termination with family members. TOP service providers were dissatisfied with the TOP facilities, especially the insufficient number of consultation and counselling rooms. Health care workers in a position to refer clients to TOP facilities were not always willing to do so, thereby obstructing the referral system. In the main, it is recommended that the entire TOP procedure should be done at clinics/hospitals so that clients will not have to do inductions at home, more trained staff should be available, facilities should be adequate and accessible, and there should be psychological support for staff.
Community-based curriculum in psychiatric nursing science
Authors: Arunachallam S , Botes AC , Gmeiner A
Published: November 2012

As community-based health care delivery is now a prominent feature of the health care system in South Africa, nursing curricula are being challenged to prepare student nurses for community based nursing roles and responsibilities. The purpose of this study was to describe guidelines for a community-based curriculum in psychiatric nursing science for a nursing college in KwaZulu-Natal. A qualitative, quantitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual design was employed. To reach the purpose of the study, a situational analysis was done in three phases to identify the principles for a community-based curriculum for psychiatric nursing science. Phase I: A document analysis of relevant government policies and legislation. Phase II: Statistics from psychiatric hospitals and community psychiatric clinics. Phase III: Focus group interviews with nurse educators and literature control and conceptual framework The principles obtained from the three phases were used to formulate the guidelines for a community-based curriculum in psychiatric nursing science (Phase IV). Eight guidelines with practical implications are described for the implementation of a Community-based curriculum in Psychiatric Nursing Science.
Perceptions of nurse educators about problem-based learning
Authors: Khumalo MF , Gwele NS
Published: November 2012

The nursing education system has to aim at producing nurse professionals who are competent in the delivery of PHC to meet the changing needs of the South African society. This therefore, requires that nursing colleges in South Africa adopt curriculum approaches that develop links between theory and clinical practice and consequently prepare students to develop self directed learning skills, self reliance, the ability to utilise different intellectual, interpersonal and practical skills to make decisions and solve problems critically (SANC, 1985). A number of authors (Andrews & Jones, 1996; Creedy & Hand, 1994; Creedy, Horsfall & Hand, 1992; Heliker, 1994) suggested Problem-based learning (PBL) as the most appropriate educational approach which will equip students with the skills necessary to function in a comprehensive and primary focused health delivery system.
Aksillere temperatuur vergelyk met timpaniese membraan temperatuur in kinders
Authors: Greyling G , Viljoen MJ , Joubert G
Published: November 2012

The purpose of the study was to measure the axillary temperature at three, six and nine minutes in a hundred children between the ages of one and twelve years who were selected in a non-random deliberate way, and to compare the measurements with the tympanic membrane temperature (golden standard) which was measured in the test persons at the same time. The results were described by sensitivity, specificity, limits of agreement, and predictive values. From some of the findings of the research it is apparent that the axillary temperature reading increased after measurement of three, six and nine minutes. A maximum temperature reading was reached after three minutes in only 9% of the test persons, in 25% after six minutes and in 66% after nine minutes. From the findings it is clear that the ranges that were used influenced the sensitivity of the measurements, and it would appear that the range 35,5°C to 37,2°C was the best range to measure pyrexia in the age group one to 12 years. The 9- minute measurement then had the highest sensitivity. However, the specificity of measurement in this range was lower. The conclusion was drawn that axillary temperature measurement is an acceptable method, with certain reservations, to use as screening method for pyrexia in emergency divisions or clinics.
What is it that matters most in the practice of nursing children?
Authors: Coetzee M
Published: November 2012

This article discusses the results of a workshop designed as an action research cycle to ascertain what matters most in the practice of nursing children in South Africa today. The workshop was convened at the University of Cape Town (UCT), in order to guide and direct the newly established post- basic, children’s nursing pathway in the Bachelor of Nursing for Registered nurses [BN(RN)] programme. The participants were eight experienced paediatric nurses, currently practising in a variety of settings in the Western Cape. The results show that the participants move from their original task- and procedure - based perspective to a more processive one in which the focus of the learning is relational, emphasising the family and culture of the child.
Integration of the primary health care approach into a community nursing science curriculum
Authors: Vilakazi SS , Chabeli MM , Roos SD
Published: November 2012

The purpose of this article is to explore and describe guidelines for integration of the primary health care approach into a Community Nursing Science Curriculum in a Nursing College in Gauteng. A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual research design was utilized. The focus group interviews were conducted with community nurses and nurse educators as respondents. Data were analysed by a qualitative descriptive method of analysis as described in Creswell (1994:155). Respondents in both groups held similar perceptions regarding integration of primary health care approach into a Community Nursing Science Curriculum. Five categories, which are in line with the curriculum cycle, were identified as follows: situation analysis, selection and organisation of objectives/ goals, content, teaching methods and evaluation. Guidelines and recommendations for the integration of the primary health care approach into a Community Nursing Science Curriculum were described.
Die verpleegdiensbestuurders binne die Suid-Afrikaanse Militêre gesondheidsdiens se persepsies oor hul vlak van motivering
Authors: Fischer A , Muller Marie
Published: November 2012

The process of transformation in the South African MilitaryHealth Services, has influenced the nursing servicemanagers’ level of motivation and the following researchquestion is applicable: what are the perceptions of thenursing service managers within the South African MilitaryHealth Services on their level of motivation? The purpose with this study was to explore and describe theperceptions of nursing service managers on their level ofmotivation within these health services. A qualitative researchdesign was utilized and four focus group interviewswere conducted with 33 nursing service managers countrywide. The transcribed interviews were exposed to acontent analysis. The results confirm that the level ofmotivation amongst these nursing service managers is low.The demotivators relate mainly to the following: inadequateacknowledgement, job insecurity in relation to thefuture, problems with the process of integration, transformationand rationalization, problems with management,many labour related issues, poor/inadequate communication,inadequate support, increased work load, poor physicalenvironment, negative publicity and poor self motivation.Although there were a few motivators identified,they were of less importance. These results were interpretedwithin Herzberg’s motivation theory to identify thehygiene/maintenance factors and to assess whether theimportant motivators were in place. During any processof change, and/or when the level of motivation amongstemployees is low, it is important to adequately managethe environment (hygiene/maintenance factors within theHerzberg theory). But it is even more important to ensurethat the motivators are in place or to intensify them. It istherefore recommended that a motivation strategy, basedon the Herzberg theory as well as the Hackman-Oldhamjob enrichment model, be developed, implemented andevaluated.
The reliability and validity of self-reported reproductive history and obstetric morbidity amongst birth to ten mothers in Soweto
Authors: Ellison GTH , De Wet T , Matshidze KP , Cooper P
Published: November 2012

Objective: To assess whether self-reports of reproductive history and obstetric morbidity provide an accurate basis for clinical decision-making. Setting, participants and methods: Self-reports of maternal age and reproductive history, together with clinical measurements of five medical disorders, were abstracted from the obstetric notes of 517 mothers whose children were enrolled in the Birth to Ten study. These data were compared to self-reported information collected by interview during the Birth to Ten study. Findings: The reliability of self-reported age and gravidity was high (R=0.810-0.993), yet self-reports of previous miscarriages, terminations, premature- and stillbirths were only fairly reliable (Kappa=0.48-0.50). Self-reported diabetes and high blood pressure had specificities of more than 95% for glycosuria, hypertension and pre-eclampsia. However, the specificity of self-reported oedema for hypertensive disorders and the specificity of self-reported urinary tract infection for STD seropositivity were only around 65%. Conclusions: The modest reliability and limited validity of self-reported obstetric morbidity undermines the clinical utility of this information. Recommendations: These results strengthen the case for providing mothers with “Home-based Maternal Records” to facilitate access to accurate obstetric information during subsequent clinical consultations.
A comparison between medicine from an African (Ubuntu) and Western philosophy
Authors: Prinsloo ED
Published: November 2012

I consider the Ubuntu way of caring for the sick in terms of the Ubuntu world-view by systematizing the scattered views. I argue that this world-view is underpinned by the regulative concept of sharing and that caring in Ubuntuthinking can only be understood correctly in terms of sharing. I substantiate my exposition in terms of what Africans themselves claim Ubuntu is and relate its meaning to African thinking in general. I consider the uniqueness of this world-view by showing how an African thinker compares it to Western world-views on causality and critically consider these comparisons. I apply this world-view to African medicine and evaluate the Ubuntu idea of causes in medicine in comparison with causality in Western thinking by considering the two frameworks of medical care in terms of their viability respectively. I conclude that causal patterns in medicine are controversial in both thinkings but argue that it sets the framework for intercultural communication that can lead both to a better understanding of each other and to some positive developments in medicine. These ways of dealing with the topic represents the significance of this article as an addition to existing knowledge.
Perceptions of epilepsy among black students at a University in South Africa
Authors: Peltzer K
Published: November 2012

The present study sought to investigate the relationship between familiarity, attitudes, causative and treatment beliefs about epilepsy in a sample of black young adults (university students) in South Africa. The sample included a convenient sample of 253 second year social science students, 98 (38.7%) males and 155 (61.3%) females in the age range from 18 to 42 years (M=25.0 years, (SD=4.2). The questionnaire administered to students in a class room situation included sociodemographic data, and sections on familiarity, beliefs about cause and treatment, sources of information, attitudes about epileptics, and prevention of epilepsy. Results showed that the majority of students, in particular from a rural background, were familiar with epilepsy. Health care institutions were the most important source of information on epilepsy, especially for women. Those who believed in traditional causes of epilepsy also endorsed traditional treatment for it, though they did not see such treatment as curative. Those who believed in a medical treatment did however see such treatment as curative. Although the majority of the students had a positive attitude towards epileptics through sharing a meal or room and willingness to marry an epileptic, 17% thought that epileptics can infect others with their saliva during a seizure, 12% felt an epileptic is a witch or wizard, and about 10% said an epileptic must be isolated. Findings should be included in educational programmes for young adults.
System requirements for a computerised patient record information system at a busy primary health care clinic
Authors: Blignaut PJ , McDonald T , Tolmie CJ
Published: November 2012

A prototyping approach was used to determine the essential system requirements of a computerised patient record information system for a typical township primary health care clinic. A pilot clinic was identified and the existing manual system and business processes in this clinic was studied intensively before the first prototype was implemented. Interviews with users, incidental observations and analysis of actual data entered were used as primary techniques to refine the prototype system iteratively until a system with an acceptable data set and adequate functionalities were in place. Several non-functional and user-related requirements were also discovered during the prototyping period.
Graduates’ perceptions of their midwifery training during the four year comprehensive nursing diploma
Authors: Chetty R , Gwele NS
Published: November 2012

Since its inception in 1986, the Comprehensive Nursing Diploma has received many criticisms from registered nurses, who graduated from the pre-existing programmes. This study attempts to examine the perceptions of graduates from this training programme, towards their midwifery education in terms of its adequacy in preparing them for midwifery practice. Twenty-nine graduates of the four year Comprehensive Nursing Programme completed self-administered questionnaires. Data was analysed by means of descriptive and inferential statistics, namely the paired t-test and the Wilcoxon test for matched pairs. Qualitative data was analysed to determine emerging themes and patterns. Differences in competence ratings on entry into midwifery units and those a year later, were significant at p = 0.0001. It was found that graduates appear to have a positive perception of the midwifery component of their training programme. They found the theory aspect to be more than adequate in preparing them for their professional roles. However, with regards to clinical exposure, it was felt that the time period was too short and needed to be extended in order for them to attain clinical proficiency.
The experience of HIV reactive patients in rural Malawi - Part I
Authors: Sliep Y , Poggenpoel M , Gmeiner A
Published: November 2012

Malawi has a population of 9 million people with AIDS the leading cause of death in the 20 - 40 age group. The HIV positive prevalence rate, estimated at 23% in urban areas and 8% in rural areas, is one of the highest in the world (AIDSEC, 1994:1). Evaluation of counselling practices showed poor results with counsellors feeling ineffective and inadequate. Patients are mostly tested on medical indication but patients who do not see the benefit of knowing their HIV status increasingly refuse testing. The counselling practise as it is known in the Western world is a foreign concept for patients living in rural Malawi. The high stigma of AIDS complicates support of the patients. The goal of the research study was to describe a model of counselling that would meet the needs of an AIDS patient in rural community in Malawi. A qualitative research design that was explorative, descriptive and contextually specific to rural Malawi was used for the study. In order to describe a counselling model it was important to understand the illness experience of HIV reactive patients. The patients are seen in group context congruent with the African culture and therefore the experience of the primary care giver of AIDS patients is explored as the other major factor in the phenomenon examined. One phase of the research is described in this article namely exploring and describing the experience of the HIV reactive patient in rural Malawi. Results show that patients are in an advanced stage of AIDS when they are diagnosed and complain of weakness and an inability to do work, including an inability to do their daily chores. This causes a feeling of desperateness that is worsened by the perception that support systems are inadequate. Support systems are mostly identified as parents, partners and siblings to assist mainly with the physical care and financial support. Despite the fact that the family is very important to patients there is a reluctance to acknowledge their HIV status. Patients fear being rejected once it is known that they have AIDS - not only because AIDS is a sexually transmitted disease, but also because it is perceived that financial and other support will be withheld if it is known that patients have AIDS and will therefore die and not be able to return the support provided. Patients feel they have no future once a diagnosis of AIDS has been made which results in refusal of testing, as they do not see the benefit of knowing their HIV status. Assessing the coping ability of the patient within the household as part of an overall assessment is one proposed strategy that could be taken. Secondly the patient is encouraged to take a more active role in the counselling process, which could be achieved by narration. The family should be incorporated into the counselling process as early as possible.
A care counselling model for HIV reactive patients in rural Malawi - Part II
Authors: Sliep Y , Poggenpoel M , Gmeiner A
Published: November 2012

The purpose of the research conducted was to explore and describe HIV patients experience of their illness within the context of rural Malawi and, based on the results of the study, to describe a model for counselling HIV reactive patients in rural Malawi which would meet both the internal and external needs of the patient. Nursing for the Whole Person Theory, as well as symbolic interactionism and the research model of Botes, were used as paradigm, as the researcher believes a person is fundamentally a historical social being who can only be understood in a specific cultural context of space and time. The research was also conducted within a counselling context and different disciplines were integrated in the study. The research method followed two phases each addressing a different objective. Firstly, exploration and description of the HIV reactive individual’s experience of illness, compilation of a demographic profile of the patients in the study and a description of their identified needs as well as possible resources, exploration and description of the primary care givers’ experience of HIV reactive patients and the exploration and description of the viewpoint of counsellors in terms of counselling HIV reactive patients. In the first phase of the study in-depth phenomenological interviews were conducted with identified groups. Focus interviews were conducted with a hundred AIDS patients to identify the needs and resources of the patients and to compile a demographic profile. Focus groups discussions were conducted with counsellors for more complete comprehension. Data-analysis and literature control was undertaken. In the second phase of the study theory generation was used in order to develop a counselling model for AIDS patients and guidelines for implementing the model were generated. Based on the results of the analysis the major concept enable was identified as the essence of a model for counselling AIDS patients in rural Malawi. The visual model developed described a process of enablement with the counsellor as negotiator and the patient as a narrator in which the patient, family and community are encouraged to participate actively. By utilising the deductive reasoning strategy, relationship statements were inferred from the model. Guidelines were described for all three phases of the model, namely pretest counselling, post-test counselling and community care, in terms of objectives, strategies and activities. The value of this research was embodied in addressing a very real and urgent need in Malawi and proposing a solution with practical guidelines.
Evaluation of the integrated community based home care model
Authors: Uys LR
Published: November 2012

In 1999-2000 the Integrated Community-Based Home Care model for the care of people with AIDS in communities were implemented in seven sites across the country. The post-implementation evaluation showed that most respondents felt that the model could be replicated if a functioning and informed network including all partners, and a strong management team were in place. The effects of the project were mainly positive for all stakeholders (hospice, clinic, hospital, PWA and their carers, professionals and other community members). Hospitals and community- based services became more aware of and involved in the needs of PWA and felt that the model enabled them to address these needs. PWA and their carers felt supported and respected.
The adoption of technology in Higher/ Nursing Education
Authors: Meyer S M
Published: November 2012

This is a review article on the adoption of technology in higher education. Higher education in general is looked at. Nursing Education is also higher education and therefore it will not be addressed separately, but mentioned in some instances. The article presents a look into how students and lecturers experience change, as well as barriers they perceive in the integration and adoption of technology. Some suggestions are made to the adoption process as well as the necessity for personnel development in information technology. The role that Information Technology personnel play in the adoption and integration process of technology is also discussed.
Knowledge and attitudes of primary care nurses and midwives towards health promotion in rural South Africa
Authors: Peltzer K
Published: November 2012

This study was designed to study knowledge, attitudes and views about health promotion among nurse clinicians in rural South Africa. The sample included 90 nurse clinicians (73 primary health care nurses and 17 midwives) in the age range of 24 to 59 years (M age 38.4 yr., SD=9.3) in the Northern Province. Results indicate that nurses (66.6%) had an inadequate knowledge score on health promotion in this sample. Higher knowledge scores on health promotion were not associated with age and years of experience. However, male nurses had significantly higher knowledge scores on health promotion than female nurses. The majority strongly supported the centrality of their role in health promotion acknowledging the time constraints involved. Better knowledge on health promotion was associated with more positive views on health promotion. More nurses had a satisfactory positive attitude towards health promotion (63.3%) than knowledge about health promotion (33.3%). Finally, the study found that compliance with health promotion was seen as a problem but health counselling was nevertheless seen as cost effective.
An investigation of the roles and functions of nurse preceptors in the clinical areas
Authors: Cele S.C. , Gumede H.A. , Kubheka B.A.
Published: November 2012

This article explores the confusion that exists in the clinical areas concerning proper accompaniment of student nurses. There is a feeling that professional nurses in clinical areas are not always actively involved in clinical teaching. The clinical instructors and nurse educators are unable to accompany student nurses properly because of staff shortages. Some hospitals have identified one professional nurse per unit to work as a nurse preceptor for accompaniment of student nurses. This has resulted in the need to find out if the professional nurse preceptor is solving the problem of lack of student accompaniment in clinical areas. The aim of this study therefore is to investigate the roles and functions of nurse preceptors in improving student accompaniment as compared to other professional nurses in clinical areas namely, clinical instructors, nurse educators and professional nurses working in clinical areas as viewed by student nurses themselves. A comparative descriptive study was done in one of the hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal (Region D) on a purposely selected sample of (80) 4 years comprehensive diploma student nurses, (16) nurse preceptors and (40) randomly-selected professional nurses. Open and closed-ended questions were used for collection of data. The study revealed that the most student nurses 87,5% (70) identified nurse preceptors as playing an important role in their accompaniment as compared to other professional nurses.