bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conceptualisation of community-based basic nursing education in South Africa: a grounded theory analysis
Authors: Mtshali Gloria
Published: November 2012

Community-based education is about a decade old in basic nursing education in South Africa, An extensive review of literature revealed that although CBE was a familiar concept in South Africa, there was however, limited understanding of what this phenomenon means. The purpose of the study was to analyse the concept ‘community-based education’ with the aim of discovering shared understanding of this phenomenon in basic nursing education within the South African context. Strauss and Corbin’s (1990) grounded theory approach was used to guide the research process. The South African Nursing Council’s (SANC) education committee, the National Department of Health, human resources division representatives as well as seven nursing education institutions with well-established CBE programmes participated in the study. The data was collected by means o f observations, interviews and document analysis. Purposive sampling and later theoretical sampling was used for selecting interviewees. This resulted in a total o f 45 interviewees. The data collection and initial data analysis took place concurrently. Descriptive analysis followed by conceptual analysis was performed using Strauss and Corbin’s model. The findings in this study revealed that community-based education is education that uses the community extensively, especially the under-developed and under-resourced settings, for learning purposes in order to enhance relevance of nursing education to the needs of the South African population. The core discriminatory characteristics o f CBE were found to include; primacy of the community as a learning environment; the early exposure of students to community-based learning experiences; community-based learning experiences dominating the curriculum, exposure to community-based learning experiences throughout the curriculum, vertical sequencing of community-based learning experiences in a curriculum, starting from primary settings to secondary and later tertiary health care settings to facilitate the development of competencies required when serving in all these settings, and lastly, learning through providing service to the underresourced communities. Community involvement and partnership, problem-centred learning, valid assessment of learning emanated as important characteristics of CBE but which were identified as gaps in the existing programmes. Recommendations focused on these gaps as well as to the problem of community-based learning experiences which were mainly concentrated in first and/or second year levels in most o f the programmes.
Aspects of the working life of women in the nursing profession in South Africa: survey results
Authors: Erasmus BJ , Brevis T
Published: November 2012

This article reports on a survey done among nurses registered with the South African Nursing Council. The survey was carried out in the last quarter of 2003. The purpose of the survey was to investigate aspects of the working life of women in the nursing profession in South Africa and to make recommendations on how their working environment could be improved. The important findings were that pay-related issues dominate as the main problem at work. Improving pay scales and being paid according to extra experience, responsibilities and qualifications could improve the nurses’ working environment. Furthermore, training opportunities, medical insurance and equal opportunities should be addressed as a matter of urgency. In general, respondents had a positive attitude towards their job, which leaves the impression that nurses still regard their jobs as something they do for the sake of a service to the community and not only for the money they earn.
Maternal anthropometry and pregnancy outcomes: a proposal for the monitoring of pregnancy weight gain in outpatient clinics in South Africa
Authors: Kruger HS
Published: November 2012

The aim of this review was to develop a framework for the monitoring of pregnancy weight gain in South African outpatient clinics. Studies showed that intrauterine malnutrition have more serious consequences for children than postnatal malnutrition. Undernutrition, as well as overnutrition during pregnancy, was associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. The IOM published recommended weight gains by prepregnancy body mass index (BMI). Wasting in pregnant women can be defined as a mid-upperarm circumference (MUAC) < 22cm. Low prepregnancy BMI is considered a risk factor for preterm birth and intra-uterine growth retardation. Pregnant women in developing countries start to attend antenatal clinics late in pregnancy, so that prepregnancy BMI may be unknown and antenatal care can be based on pregnancy weight gain only. A framework is proposed that identifies the critical points for action during pregnancy to improve birth outcomes. Health care providers should measure height, weight and MUAC and try to classify pregnant women according to weight status, set weight gain goals and monitor gestational weight gain between follow-up visits. Women with short stature (<145cm), low body weight (<45kg), and/or MUAC<22cm are considered to be at risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Weekly weight gains should range from 0.3kg for overweight women to 0.5kg or more for underweight women from the second trimester. Genetic background, age, general health, HIV and educational status, cigarette smoking, past nutritional status of the mother, parity, multiple pregnancies, climate, socioeconomic conditions and the availability of health services should be adjusted for in statistical analyses.
An assessment by nurses and mothers of a ‘road-to-health ’ book in the Western Cape
Authors: Harrison D , Harker H , Heese Hde V , Mann MD
Published: November 2012

Objectives: To evaluate English, Afrikaans, and Xhosa mother-retained ‘Road-to- Health Book’ (RTH book) for children, and an electronic calculator. Design: Researchers D Harrison (DH) and H Harker (HH) informed clinic staff about the contents and significance of the RTH book. They requested nurses to use this book in conjunction with the Road-to-Health Card and to issue and explain its use to every visiting client. The use of an electronic calculator that plotted horizontal centile and Z-score charts was demonstrated and explained. To determine the relevance of the book and the electronic calculator, nurses involved in the study for 6 months were given three standardised descriptive questionnaires with ‘yes’, ‘no’ and ‘don’t know’ responses. Clients were traced and interviewed by the researchers after 6 -1 2 months to obtain their views on the book. Setting: Clinics that provided children with healthcare in 24 locations in the Western Cape Province participated in the study. The children lived in informal settlements, in low-, middle- and high-income residential areas, and on farms in the Cape Town. Stellenbosch, and Paarl regions. Subjects: One hundred and fourteen nurses were enrolled in the study as well as 581 clients to whom the RTH book was issued. Outcome measures: The use of and comments on the RTH book by nurses and clients were based on analysis of the questionnaires. Results: The majority of nurses (81.6%) and clients (96%) found the RTH book useful. The horizontal and Z-score growth charts and electronic calculator were less acceptable because their use was time-consuming and less well understood. Conclusion: The RTH book with appropriate modifications should be issued to clients in place of the current Road-to-Health card and educational material.
Experiences of final year nursing students in their preparedness to become registered nurses
Authors: Carlson S , Kotzé W J , Van Rooyen D
Published: November 2012

The objectives of this study were: firstly, to explore and describe the experiences of final year nursing students relating to how they experience their preparedness to fulfil the role of professional nurse; secondly, to explore and describe the experiences of novice professional nurses in the role of professional nurse; finally, to generate a model which will assist the final year nursing student to become a professional nurse. A theory-generative, qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design was utilized to reach the objectives of the study. Results indicated that final year nursing students experience a lack of confidence to take on the responsibilities of professional nursing. The results are displayed in table form and discussed in the article. This abstract forms part of a bigger study that addresses the professional maturity of the novice professional nurse for the practice of nursing.
Factors influencing post abortion outcomes among high-risk patients in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mudokwenuy-Rawdon C , Ehlers VJ , Bezuidenhout MC
Published: November 2012

Post abortion complications remain one of the major causes of mortality among women of child bearing age in Zimbabwe. Based on this problem, factors associated with mortalities due to abortion were investigated with the aim of improving post abortion outcomes for Zimbabwe’s women, and possibly also for women of other African countries. Cases and controls were selected from 4895 post abortion records to conduct a retrospective case-control study. Significant risk factors identified for reducing mortalities due to post abortion complications included the administration of oxytocic drugs and evacuation of the uterus whilst anaemia and sepsis apparently reduced these women’s chances of survival. Women who died (cases) from post abortion complications apparently received better reported quantitative care than controls. Recommendations based on this research report include improved education of health care workers and enhanced in-service training, regular audits of patients’ records and changed policies for managing these conditions more effectively in Zimbabwe.
Farm worker injuries on Western Cape fruit farms: The role of the Lay Health Worker
Authors: Marais S , Kritzinger A
Published: November 2012

Aim and method: An exploratory and descriptive study to obtain basic data on the extent, nature, sources and severity of injuries sustained on fruit farms was conducted. The possibility of utilizing lay health workers (LHWs) on farms to document routine information on injuries was also investigated. Descriptive information of all injuries occurring on selected farms, both occupational and other, needing some form of treatment, were documented over a one-year period from June 1999 to May 2000. A purposive non-probability sampling method was used. Forty-eight fruit farms with a history of trained LHWs were purposefully selected. Injuries were documented using a one-page questionnaire. Results: A total of 500 injuries were recorded, giving an average of 10.4 injuries per farm per year. Half of these injuries were work-related. Workers aged 20-39 were most at risk. Injuries sustained were related to routine activities of fruit farming, occurred mostly in the orchards and involved cuts, bruises and abrasions to the hands, including the fingers, and the eyes. Most of the non-work related injuries occurred in and around the home. A third of these injuries were sustained by persons <20. A large percentage of the non-work related injuries were violence- and alcohol related. Most of the injuries required basic primary health care that could be managed by the LHW. Injury severity caused people to take time off for one third of the cases. Conclusion: A relatively high occupational injury rate in comparison to high-income countries. Occupational Health and Safety legislation needs to be institutionalized and adhered to. Alcohol and violence on farms is a serious public health problem. LHWs could potentially play an important role in documenting injury data.
Facilitation as a teaching strategy: The experiences of nursing students
Authors: Lekalakala-Mokgele E , Du Randt P
Published: November 2012

This study was undertaken to assess the needs/problems of students of nursing regarding facilitation as a teaching/learning method. Facilitation as a teaching and learning strategy was uncommon and innovative in nature and presented a challenge to the students as it was a new way of learning. Focus group interviews were conducted. The sample study consisted of eight (8) groups of learners from four universities engaged in this curriculum. To answer the research question a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive design was used and the students were selected purposively. Data analysis using transcribed focus interviews, was based on the combined approaches of Tesch (1990) in Cresswell (1994:153-155) and the basic steps of Giorgi (1970) as quoted by Ornery (1983:49-63). The themes identified were about the experiences of the facilitation process and problems with the facilitators. All the students experienced the facilitation of learning negatively in the beginning but became more positive later when they adapted to this method of learning.
Practice standards for quality clinical decision-making in nursing
Authors: Arries E
Published: November 2012

The purpose of this study is to formulate practice standards for quality clinical decision making in nursing. Clinical decision-making is a critical component of nursing practice, as the life of the patient is at stake. The quality of clinical decision-making is, therefore, essential in delivering quality nursing care. The facilitation of quality clinical decision-making in nursing requires the development of standards to monitor, evaluate and implement remedial actions that improve on the quality of clinical decision-making (Muller, 2002:203; Beyea & Nicoll, 1999:495). However, there are no such practice standards against which the quality of clinical decision-making by nurses can be evaluated and assessed. A qualitative, explorative, descriptive and standard formulation research design (Mouton & Marais, 1990:45-46; Muller, 1990:49-55) has been followed to develop standards for quality clinical decision-making in nursing. Standard development was based on the principles described by Muller (in Booyens, 1998:607-608; 636-637), and consists of development and quantification phases that are modified to meet the requirements for instrument development, as described by Lynn (1986:382-385). The formulation of these practice-standards was derived deductively from a conceptual framework. The conceptual framework was constructed based on an exploration and description of the expectations of the stakeholders about quality clinical decisionmaking in nursing and a literature study on clinical decision-making. To ensure the credibility of the standards for clinical decision-making in nursing, principles of logic, prolonged engagement, triangulation, peer-group discussion, dense description, stepwise repetition and an investigative audit (Lincoln & Guba, 1985:289-331) were adhered to. Two experts were consulted to validate the standards for quality clinical decisionmaking in nursing.
Patients’ satisfaction with government health care and services in the Taung district, North West Province
Authors: Bediako MA , Nel M , Hiemstra LA
Published: November 2012

This was a descriptive study that determined patients’ satisfaction with health care in the Taung district state health institutions, North West Province. One hospital, three health centres and five clinics were randomly selected, and consecutive patients were recruited at outpatients during 17 May 2000 - 17 June 2000. The patients completed a questionnaire regarding the service or care provided. Five hundred and sixty seven patients participated in the study. The median age was 30 years, and most patients were female (76.7%). More than half of patients (56.8%) were not satisfied with the availability of medicines and other supplies. Approximately two thirds of patients (65.2%) did not know about the quality of telephone services rendered. There was a high level of dissatisfaction (63.1 %) among patients regarding accessing doctors after hours. Most patients were satisfied with the general attitude of health workers (62.1 %) but 21.2% were dissatisfied. Few (11.7%) patients felt rushed during consultation. Most patients felt they received good health education when their illness was discussed (74.6%). Words and explanations used were easy to understand (76.7%); and they were not discouraged from asking questions (69.9%, n=539). Generally the level of satisfaction among the patients was high except for difficulty in accessing doctors after hours and lack of medicines.
Training primary care nurses to conduct alcohol screening and brief interventions in South Africa
Authors: Peltzer K , Seoka P , Babor T , Obot I
Published: November 2012

Although progress has been made in developing a scientific basis for alcohol screening and brief intervention (SBI), training packages are necessary for its widespread dissemination in primary care settings in developing societies. Using a training package developed by the World Health Organisation 121 nurses from one rural site (29 clinics in Vhembe District) and one urban site (3 clinics and 6 mobile clinics in Polokwane/ Seshego) in South Africa were compared before and after SBI training regarding knowledge and attitudes, and the subsequent practice of SBI in routine clinical practice. Although the training effects were at times moderate, all changes were in a direction more conducive to implementing SBI. Health care providers significantly increased in knowledge, confidence in SBI and higher self-efficacy in implementing SBI at followup after 9 months after receiving the training. When delivered in the context of a comprehensive SBI implementation programme, this training is effective in changing providers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practice of SBI for at-risk drinking.
Differences regarding job satisfaction and job involvement of psychologists with different dominant career anchors
Authors: Bester CL , Mouton T
Published: November 2012

In order to contribute to higher levels of job satisfaction, job involvement , and productivity, a match or fit should be established between the dominant career anchor associated with a specific occupation and that of the employee. A career anchor is an individual’s set of self-perceived talents, abilities, motives, needs and values that form the nucleus of one’s occupational self-concept. Psychologists have always been part of the service orientated careers and therefore one would expect that it is likely that their dominant career anchor would be service orientation. If this is the case, psychologists with service as their dominant career anchor are supposed to have greater job satisfaction and job involvement compared to those with different career anchors. However, according to literature, this assumption is not necessarily correct. The primary goals of the current study were to determine whether in fact service is the dominant career anchor of psychologists in the Free State and whether there are significant differences regarding job satisfaction and job involvement between psychologists with and without service as their dominant career anchor. A third goal was to determine whether psychologists with different dominant career anchors differ significantly from one another regarding job satisfaction and job involvement. Questionnaires measuring career orientations, job satisfaction and job involvement were sent to 165 of the 171 registered psychologists in the Free State region. Only 75 psychologists (45,5%) responded which exceeded the traditional return rate of 20 to 30%. Due to the small sample of respondents, a nonparametric statistical test, namely the Mann Whitney U test was conducted to determine possible differences. An analysis of the data showed that 21 respondents had entrepreneurship as their dominant career orientation while 12 fell in the technical/functional, 12 in the challenging, 9 in the service and 8 in the autonomy categories of dominant career anchors. No significant differences regarding job satisfaction between psychologists with and without service as dominant career orientation could be determined. Both groups experienced a fairly high degree of job satisfaction and a higher level of intrinsic job satisfaction occurred compared to extrinsic job satisfaction. A significant difference between the two groups in terms of job involvement occurred. Psychologists with service as dominant career orientation showed a higher level of job involvement, although the degree of job involvement for both groups was fairly low. No significant differences regarding job satisfaction and job involvement among psychologists with different career orientations could be found.
Higher order thinking skills competencies required by outcomes-based education from learners
Authors: Chabeli MM
Published: November 2012

Outcomes-Based Education (OBE) brought about a significant paradigm shift in the education and training of learners in South Africa. OBE requires a shift from focusing on the teacher input (instruction offerings or syllabuses expressed in terms of content), to focusing on learner outcomes. OBE is moving away from ‘transmission’ models to constructivistic, learner-centered models that put emphasis on learning as an active process (Nieburh, 1996:30). Teachers act as facilitators and mediators of learning (Norms and Standards, Government Gazette vol 415, no 20844 of 2000). Facilitators are responsible to create the environment that is conducive for learners to construct their own knowledge, skills and values through interaction (Peters, 2000). The first critical cross-field outcome accepted by the South African Qualification Framework (SAQA) is that learners should be able to identify and solve problems by using critical and creative thinking skills. This paper seeks to explore some higher order thinking skills competencies required by OBE from learners such as critical thinking, reflective thinking, creative thinking, dialogic / dialectic thinking, decision making, problem solving and emotional intelligence and their implications in facilitating teaching and learning from the theoretical perspective. The philosophical underpinning of these higher order thinking skills is described to give direction to the study. It is recommended that a study focusing on the assessment of these intellectual concepts be made. The study may be qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods in nature (Creswell 2005).
The Neonatal Unit
Authors: Wilson Elaine
Published: November 2012

Die neonatale eenheid behoort só beplan te wees dat dit onnodige toegang uitskakel. Dit behoort verskillende versorgingsafdelings te he om vir verskillende vlakke intensiewe verpleegsorg voorsiening te maak. Gespesialiseerde sorg word verkieslik in ’n groot enkelkamer verskaf, maar opnames in die afdeling behoort eers in ’n afsonderlike kamer aandag te kry. Hulpdienste behoort binne die neonatale eenheid of in die onmiddellike nabyheid van die neonatale intensiewe sorgeenheid geplaas te wees. Om die spanning van die versorging van ernstig sieke pasgeborenes te verminder, is voldoende personeel nodig, en bewakingstoestelle behoort as hufp aan die versorgers verskaf te word. Met die oog op die gespesialiseerde aard van die werk in ’n intensiewe versorgeenheid, behoort personeel die regte opleiding daarvoor te kry.
Die moeder-kind verbintenis
Authors: Maclure E.M.
Published: November 2012

In antenatal clinics, maternity homes and doctors’ practices, more can be done to promote understanding of the patient’s needs and of the lack of mother-child bonding factors. The importance of early experiences which create a bond between mother and baby cannot be sufficiently stressed. The sooner the mother is allowed to handle, inspect and suckle her baby, the less complicated will be the most important first impression and the easier the development of mutual care.
The unplanned teenage pregnancy
Authors: Ross S.M.
Published: November 2012

Surveys conducted in the Durban area of Natal showed that 18 per cent of all pregnancies occurred amongst teenagers with the incidence amongst the various population groups varying bëtween Whites 14 per cent, Indians 17 per cent, Coloureds and Blacks 20 per cent. This compares with a world-wide teenage pregnancy rate of 10-15 per cent. Amongst primigravid pregnancies 33 per cent Indians and 53 per cent of Africans were found to be 18 years of age or less.
The management of the burned child
Authors: Amon L.N.
Published: November 2012

The need to admit an average o f 540 children each year with moderate to severe degree bum injuries has led to the development of an effective treatment programme in a 30-bed special care ward at the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, Rondebosch. These numbers highlight the extensive problem facing the community in the prevention of such injuries, and in finding a way to safeguard children against trauma that can disfigure or handicap them for life.
The role of the local authority in relation to health legislation
Authors: Mackenzie Colin R.
Published: November 2012

The underlying philosophy of the Health Act in relation to the three tiers of Government rendering health services in South Africa is to establish flexibility of functions and so to meet local needs and to use local resources to the best advantage. Implicit in this is a coordination of the activities of all three tiers of Government, at the same time involving the services of welfare and other organisations. Overlapping and repetition of services should thus be eliminated. This latter feature is of particular importance if energy, time and money is not to be wasted. Let me emphasise
Home care
Authors: Samson J.P.
Published: November 2012

It is probably safe to state that even in highly developed countries, by far the most un-wellness, ill health, discomfort, and pain are suffered at home, whether before, after, or without having had recourse to available primary, secondary or tertiary health services. Most people will delay as long as possible in calling in a doctor or going to a clinic for professional assistance or advice, preferring to try out all kinds of home remedies and medicines obtained from the local chemist, and hoping to feel better by tomorrow.
The paediatric primary care clinical nurse in South Africa — at the crossroad of progress
Authors: Ireland J.D.
Published: November 2012

Extending the role of the nurse particularly into areas previously considered to fall under the direct jurisdiction of the medical doctor, is a subject that usually generates a great deal of emotion and division of opinion. The following points should be read and accepted. If not fully accepted, they should be given serious consideration.
The nursing contributors to health services of the black states
Authors: Muller O.H. , Smit J.J.M.
Published: November 2012

The black population of South Africa consists of several different ethnic groups, each with its own historical identity. Seven of these groups have homelands, they are the Xhosa of Ciskei, the Zulu of KwaZulu, the Swazi of Kangwane, the Changana/Tonga of Gazankulu, the Basotho of Qwa- Qwa, the North Sotho of Lebowa, and the Venda of Venda.
Patient-response to hospitalisation
Authors: Salmon Maureen
Published: November 2012

Since that fateful moment in the Garden of Eden when our ancestor Adam was tempted to eat of the forbidden fruit, illness and disease entered man’s existence. Primitive civilizations regarded disease as of supernatural origin and in the Middle Ages illness was interpreted as a manifestation of the will of God. With the evolution of modern medicine, hospitals have ceased to be primarily charitable institutions or refuges for the homeless and have become highly complex organisms directed at the highest possible standard of patient care. It is sad that in this striving towards maximal therapeutic efficiency, the understanding of the patient as a total person tends to suffer.
The plight of the black retarded child: how the nurse can assist
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: November 2012

While modern trends emphasise the need to educate and train the retarded child and adult, many aspects of mental retardation remain in the medical realm. There is therefore much that can be done by the medical and paramedical worker to assist the retarded child and its family; not only from the point of view of health but even to achieve some degree of education and /o r training. The emphasis here is on the Black retarded child.
Sorg en versorging
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: November 2012

Four articles in this issue of CURATIONIS (Volume 2, No. 4) highlight subjects of top-level significance to all concerned with the care and welfare of children.
Verpleegkundige-pasiënt kommunikasie
Authors: Uys L.R.
Published: November 2012

In communication between nurse and patient two types of interaction are often not fully utilised, namely emotionally supportive conversations and patient-teaching. When these performance problems are analysed, their multicausal nature is discovered and possible remedial steps proposed.
Helping parents cope with a cleft lip and palate
Authors: Steyn Jenny
Published: November 2012

For the layman, the area of cleft palate is one shrouded in mystery and half-knowledge. An unrepaired cleft lip and palate is an unpleasant, if not alarming sight, and parents are not always totally convinced by the reassuring words of doctors and nurses that “ plastic surgeons do a marvellous job on cleft palate babies.” They need proof that their baby will indeed look and be like any other baby within a few months. Equally important, they need reassurance that whatever feelings they may experience when their babies are born are natural and appropriate ones. As the baby grows and develops parents may need practical assistance, emotional support and information regarding their baby’s condition. It is essentially for these reasons that a fellowship group has been established under the auspices of SAIDA (Southern Africa Inherited Disorders Association) to help parents and families of cleft lip and palate children.
Die outistiese kind se ontoereikende ontmoeting met die medemens
Authors: Gouws M.
Published: November 2012

In order to support and to render guidance to the parents of autistic children in the upbringing of such children, a sound knowledge of and insight into autism is essential. Owing to the autistic child’s peculiar disabilities, such as excessive abstraction, selfdirectedness, inaccessibility for caress, the absence of attentive listening to speech, the lack of meaningful directedness to a person’s face and voice, and lack of selfinitiated attempts to encounter other persons, many problems are encountered. This article is devoted to the autistic child’s failure to actualize adequate encounter with his mother and other persons, which is the fundamental characteristic of autism.
More about Insecticides
Authors: Hartwig E.K.
Published: November 2012

An insecticide is a chemical used to kill insects. Insect control can also include other materials such as repellents, oils, antifeedants and attractants. Ideally, an insecticide would effectively control any target insect exposed to it and would be harmless to man and his domestic animals. It would also be readily available in necessary quantitie s , s table chemically, noninflammable, easily prepared and applied, noncorrosive, non-staining, and would have no undesirable odour.
Integration of research and nursing experiential learning: a case study
Authors: Wright S.C.D. , Benninghoff I.
Published: November 2012

Teaching research to undergraduates has its own challenges and involving undergraduates in research practical experience is just one of those challenges. As nursing students are in the process of becoming professional nurses, knowledge and skills in research are specific outcomes of the curriculum. One of the outcomes of the B Tech Nursing Science programme offered by the Tshwane University of Technology states that for the baccalaurcate nursing programme include analysis, interpretation and utilisation of a range of research findings in scientific nursing and midwifery care as well as the development of a research protocol in a given context. In an effort to ensure that students would experience research as an essential part of their daily activities, an integrated approach is suggested whereby the nursing experiential learning opportunities are also research experiential learning opportunities. Using the integration strategy, research theory come ‘alive’ for the students. The integration approach is uncomplicated and transferable to any other discipline. The case study presented is the second year nursing students using school nursing experiential learning as a research project. The second year nursing students have a community focus during their second year and one of the experiential learning opportunities is school health nursing in a primary school in Tshwane. The results of the school health survey are presented. The students developed a health education intervention based on the research results.
Professional nurses’ perception of the implementation of quality circle programme in a public hospital in the Eastern Cape province
Authors: Mbovane M.M.
Published: November 2012

A qualitative research design that is explorative, descriptive and contextual in nature was employed in order to understand and describe the professional nurses’ perception of the implementation of a quality circle programme in a public hospital in the Eastern Cape Province. The data-collection techniques were individual semi-structured interviews and field notes. The sample was drawn from a population of 425 Xhosaspeaking professional nurses employed in this institution. The sample comprised eight (8) professional nurses all of whom volunteered for in-depth individual semistructured interviews. All the respondents answered one question: How do you perceive the implementation of the quality circle programme in your hospital?
Involvement of males in promoting reproductive health
Authors: Maja T.M.M.
Published: November 2012

At the international conference on Population and Development held in Cairo 1994, specific aspects of reproductive health addressed endorsed among others, were that unwanted pregnancies must always be given the highest priority and that every attempt should be made to eliminate the need for abortion. This paper focused on the involvement of males in promoting reproductive health through prevention of unplanned and unwanted pregnancies. A total of 71 males (48 adults and 23 adolescents) were selected conveniently from two health care centres, North of Tshwane, Gauteng province. Structured questionnaires having open and closed questions were used for data collection.
Community participation in primary health care projects of the Muldersdrift Health and Development Programme
Authors: Barker M. , Klopper H.
Published: November 2012

After numerous teething problems (1974-1994), the Department of Nursing Education of WITS University took responsibility for the Muldersdrift Health and Development Programme (MHDP). The nursing science students explored and implemented an empowerment approach to community participation. The students worked with MHDP health workers to improve health through community participation, in combination with primary health care (PHC) activities and the involvement of a variety of community groups. As the PHC projects evolved overtime, the need arose to evaluate the level of community participation and how much community ownership was present over decision-making and resources. This led to the question “What was the level of community participation in PHC projects of the MHDP?” Based on the question the following objectives were set, i.e. i) to evaluate the community participation in PHC initiatives; ii) to provide the project partners with motivational affirmation on the level of community participation criteria thus far achieved; iii) to indicate to participants the mechanisms that should still be implemented if they wanted to advance to higher levels of community participation; iv) to evaluate the MHDP’s implementation of a people-centred approach to community participation in PHC; and v) the evaluation of the level of community participation in PHC projects in the MHDP. An evaluative, descriptive, contextual and quantitative research design was used. Ethical standards were adhered to throughout the study. The MHDP had a study population of twentythree (N=23) PHC projects. A purposive sample of seven PHC initiatives was chosen according to specific selection criteria and evaluated according to the “Criteria to evaluate community participation in PHC projects” instrument (a quantitative tool). Structured group interviews were done with PHC projects’ executive committee members. The Joint Management Committee’s data was collected through mailed self-administered questionnaires. Validity and reliability were ensured according to strict criteria. Thereafter results were analysed and plotted on a radiating arm continuum. The following factors had component scores: organization, leadership, resources, management; needs and skills. A spider graph was produced after each factor’s continuum was connected in a spoke figuration that brought them together at the base where participation was at its most narrow. The results are presented and a graph and discussion is provided on each of the PHC projects.
The health and fitness profiles of nurses in KwaZulu-Natal
Authors: Naidoo R. , Coopoo Y.
Published: November 2012

Back pain has been recognized as a problem in hospitals, with up to 50% of healthcare staff reporting symptoms (Smedly, Egger, Cooper and Coggon, 1997 and Engels, van der Guilden, Senden and van ’t Hof, 1996). The general purpose of this study was to determine the health and fitness profiles of nurses working in a public hospital. It was hypothesized that there is a correlation between the prevalence of lower back pain and being overweight or obese amongst nurses. One hundred and seven nurses from a local hospital in KwaZulu Natal participated in this study. Responses from a health questionnaire examining medical history, dietary, exercise and lifestyle patterns were analysed. Fitness tests determinedflexibility (sit and reach), muscular strength (back and grip strength), aerobic capacity (Astrand-Rhyming cycle) and anthropometrical data (percent body fat and BMI). Results suggested overall poor health and fitness profiles and a high incidence of back pain correlating with increased body fat percentages, thus accepting the hypothesis. The need for health and wellness intervention strategies in hospitals for the nurses was emphasized.
The management of infant developmental needs by community nurses - Part 2: The development of guidelines for the support of community nurses in the management of infant developmental needs
Authors: Leech R. , Van Wyk N.C. , Uys C.J.E.
Published: November 2012

In the previous article, the author described, according to the scope of practice of registered nurses, the responsibilities oi community nurses with regard to the management of infant developmental needs in primary health care clinics in South Africa. In this article, the focus is on the development of guidelines for the support of community nurses in fulfilling these responsibilities. Before the development of the guidelines is addressed, a brief overview of the background of the study, assumptions of the researcher and the methodology of the study is given. The development of the set of guidelines (DEFINE HOPE) is set against the background of the drive to improve the quality of developmental care for infants and their families. As guidelines help to translate scientific information into statements, it could be valuable to community nurses to improve their delivery of developmental care. To gather evidence for the formulation of the guidelines, the researcher utilised the themes identified during the analysis process in phase one of the research; investigated research articles; and compared findings and recommendations of the articles with the research findings obtained in phase one. In addition to the research findings and literature review, a focus group (health care professionals represented in the case study), was utilised to assist with the final development and validation of the guidelines. The researcher adapted a number of desirable attributes for guidelines, which are indicated in the literature, to compile the criteria for validation of the guidelines. In conclusion, guidelines are necessary to support community nurses in finding “best practice” within their scope of practice to ensure higher quality of developmental care to families with infants 0-2 years.
Knowledge, attitudes and practices related to HIV/AIDS among learners in Vhembe district of Limpopo Province
Authors: Davhana-Maselesele M. , Lalendle L.L. , Useh U.
Published: November 2012

The purpose of this study is to investigate the knowledge, attitudes and practices related to HIV and AIDS among teenagers in rural schools in Vhembe district. This study focused on teenagers’ sources of knowledge about HIV/AIDS; their knowledge of how to avoid contracting HIV/AIDS; their knowledge of the methods of transmission of the disease; their knowledge of condoms and usage levels; and people with whom they are comfortable to talk about HIV/AIDS. This was a quantitative descriptive research design where a random sample of 128 participants between the ages of 14 and 19 years was selected. The participants were in grades 8 to 12. The study recommended that holistic HIV/AIDS preventive programmes which were culture and gender sensitive be developed. Custodians of culture should be involved in dealing with HIV/AIDS. Parents should also play their role in discussing HIV/AIDS with their children in a non-threatening environment.
Job satisfaction among nurses in a public hospital in Gauteng
Authors: Selebi C. , Minnaar A.
Published: November 2012

Introduction: The nursing profession in South Africa has lost skilled nurses due to intense international recruitment drives. The public hospital in this study has also failed to recruit and retain skilled nurses. The shortage of skilled nurses has led to deterioration in patient nursing care. The aim of this study: The aim of this study was to describe the level of job satisfaction among nurses in a public hospital. The methodology: A quantitative, descriptive survey was conducted. The data were collected using the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire. The sample included nurses working in a specific public hospital. Results: Generally all the nurses experienced low satisfaction (42%) with the motivational aspects of their job, such as motivation, responsibility, opportunity for creativity and innovation, independence, and recognition. Nurses also experienced very low levels of satisfaction (22%) with the hygiene aspects of their job, namely, relationships in the workplace, supervisors’ decision-making skills, supervision, working conditions, policies, job security, and salaries. Conclusions: Health services need to be made aware of the high level of dissatisfaction of nurses. The hospital struggles to keep nurses in their posts, and could benefit from taking note of the results of this study. The findings indicate some of the aspects which need to be considered in a human resource planning strategy for nurses. The hospital and nursing management needs to rethink nurses’ salaries, supervision methods and relationships, and also how the Department of Health policies are implemented.
Staff dissatisfaction in the theatre complex of a private hospital
Authors: Ackerman E.R. , Bezuidenhout M.C.
Published: November 2012

The evident job dissatisfaction of nursing personnel in a theatre complex of a private hospital has seemingly led to an extremely high turnover rate of personnel. Several factors appear to be responsible for the discontent among nursing staff such as low staff levels, the continuous quest for cost-effectiveness in terms of staffing numbers, the flexi-time system, insufficiently experienced staff and inadequate care and maintenance of equipment. As a requirement of the C3-Workbook (which sets requirements for staff appraisal) a quantitative, exploratory and descriptive research study was undertaken among all the nursing staff and technicians of a theatre complex in a private hospital. A questionnaire was employed to gather data in this census survey. The aim of the research was to identify the problems in this theatre section in order to take remedial steps in an attempt to re-establish a stable personnel corps which would not only benefit the functioning of the unit but could also contribute to the well being of staff. The findings indicate that dissatisfaction and negative feelings were experienced by the respondents as a result of working conditions, management’s lack of support and understanding, unequal distribution of work, unavailability of stock and supplies, remuneration not in line with actual hours worked, the seemingly unfair flexi-time system and insufficient staff numbers. Recommendations were made relevant to management’s role, the motivation of staff, shortage of personnel and physical environment.
A descriptive study of the reasons and consequences of pregnancy among single adolescent mothers in Lesotho
Authors: Yako E.M. , Yako J.M.
Published: November 2012

The adolescents, who engage in unprotected sex, face the risk of unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. It is not clear why adolescents in Lesotho engage in unprotected sex and end up with unplanned pregnancies. In addition, it is not clear what the consequences of early childbearing are on the life of the adolescent and her infant. An understanding of the reasons why a number of adolescents engage in unprotected sex and the impact of pregnancy and early childbearing on the lives of adolescent mothers and their infants will potentially assist nurses and other health workers in adolescent health promotion programmes. The purpose of this study was: 1) to determine the adolescent mother’s perceived reasons for pregnancy and 2) to determine pregnancy related joys, and problems faced by adolescent mother and her infant.
Women’s journey of recovery from sexual assault trauma : a grounded theory - Part 1
Authors: Duma S.E. , Mekwa J.N. , Denny L.D.
Published: November 2012

Thousands of women and children experience sexual assault trauma annually in South Africa. The challenge posed by recovery from sexual assault trauma is a reality that confronts the survivors of sexual assault, their families and the larger community of service providers. Yet, little research has been conducted on recovery from sexual assault as a phenomenon. The purpose of the study was to explore and analyse the journey of recovery which is undertaken by women who have been sexually assaulted, with the aim of discovering and developing the grounded theory of recovery from sexual assault trauma within the first six months following the event of rape. The main research question was: What constitutes the journey of recovery undertaken by women within the first six months following sexual assault? A longitudinal qualitative study was conducted using the principles of grounded theory methodology as proposed by Strauss and Corbin (1990,1998). A series of indepth one-to-one interviews were conducted with a sample of ten women. The participants were selected through open, purposive and theoretical sampling procedures. The study was conducted over a period of six months following the event of sexual assault.
A concept analysis of holistic nursing care in paediatric nursing
Authors: Tjale A.A. , Bruce J.
Published: November 2012

Holistic nursing care is widely advocated and is espoused in the philosophy of the South African Nursing Council. This concept is unclear, variously interpreted and poorly understood in paediatric nursing. This study was undertaken to examine the meaning of holistic nursing care and to develop a framework for holistic nursing care, which can be utilised in nurse education settings and in clinical nursing practice in the context of paediatric nursing. A qualitative, interpretive, explorative and contextual research design was used. An evolutionary concept analysis was undertaken to clarify the concept “holistic nursing care” in paediatric nursing in three Johannesburg hospitals. Rodgers’ (1989, 2000) evolutionary method was utilised to analyse the concept.