bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fasiliterende kommunikasie met die verstandelik vertraagde persoon tydens die behandeling van geringe ongesteldhede
Authors: Scrooby B , Roos SD , Gmeiner AC
Published: November 2012

The research objectives were to explore and describe the nature of communication with the mentally retarded adult during treatment of minor ailments; and to describe guidelines for the community nurse in order to facilitate more effective communication during the treatment of minor ailments in the mentally retarded adult for the promotion, maintenance and restoration of the mentally retarded individual’s health. The community nurse pays attention to the protection of the mentally retarded individual’s health, and identifies and treats minor ailments encountered by the mentally retarded individual. Because of the disability of the adults, lacking communication and obstacles in the exchange and interpretation of communication, could take place between the community nurse and the mentally retarded adult. The responsibility lies with the community nurse to facilitate effective communication, since the mentally retarded individual is not always capable of speaking on his/her own behalf. Guidelines are needed for the facilitation of effective communication between the community nurse and the mentally retarded adult during the treatment of minor ailments. In this research, use were made of a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual design. The research method consisted of participative observation during which video recording and the taking of field notes were applied. Two themes were identified during data analysis, namely: ^Verbal communication is aimed at the treatment of wounds. The more functional and task-orientated the community nurse’s interaction with the mentally retarded individual, the more the mentally retarded individual would generate symptoms to establish emotional contact and interaction; The non-verbal behaviour of the community nurse focuses on the treatment of wounds and organisation of the environment. The more structure is created, the more play-out-behaviour is shown by the mentally retarded individual in need of contact. The researcher came to the conclusion that the community nurse refrains form near/close contact with the mentally retarded individual, to bridge her own discomfort. The community nurse is “busy” with the act of treating wounds, in order to refrain from effective interaction.
Maintaining compliance at home: Helping the elderly with their medications
Authors: Mokgele E , Du Rand PP
Published: November 2012

The elderly population consumes more drugs for their chronic conditions compared to any age group. In this study it was indicated that the average elderly takes two to four drugs per day. The high quantity and wide range of drugs used by the elderly can lead to significant risks. Adding to the risks is the problem of compliance. Areas of concern regarding safety in administering medications to the elderly are the need for increased awareness of the effects of drugs in their systems.
Riglyne vir die toepassing in die onderrigleersituasie ten opsigte van tuberkulose
Authors: Strydom M , Greeff M , Nel A
Published: November 2012

This article is a follow up article of the previoulsy published article “Die belewenis van die pasient en die verpleegkundige tydens tuberkulose-onderrig” and focuses on guidelines formulated on the basis of the research findings. These guidelines have been formulated in order to promote the nurse’s knowledge and skills concerning: interpersonal relations, subject knowledge, a task versus patient orientated nursing approach, the motivation of the nurse, social support systems, stimulation of the patient’s motivation, recovery from the patient’s chest centredness and the acceptance of responsibility for his own health as well as the affirmation of the role of the nurse.
Facilitation skills for nurses
Authors: Cilliers F , Terblanche L
Published: November 2012

Using the pcrson-centered approach, facilitation in this study was conceptualised as providing opportunities for personal growth in the patient, and operationalised in a skills workshop for 40 nurses from different hospitals in Gauteng. The first objective was to evaluate the workshop and the second to ascertain its effect on the participant’s experienced performance. A combined quantitative and qualitative research design was used. The quantitative measurement (Personal Orientation Inventory, Carkhuff scales) indicated that the workshop stimulated self-actualisation in terms of intrapersonal awareness, and the interpersonal skills of respect, realness, concreteness, empathy, as well as in terms of attending and responding behaviour. The qualitative measurement (a semi-structured interview) indicated that the participants were able to empower patients to find their own answers to difficult personal questions. The alternative hypothesis was accepted, namely that this workshop in facilitations skills significantly enhanced the intra- and interpersonal characteristics associated with self-actualisation and the facilitation of growth in patients. The findings highlighted the difference between the two roles of instructor and facilitator, and recommendations to this effect were formulated.
A model for facilitation of critical reflective practice: Part I - introductory discussion and explanation of the phases followed to construct the model.
Authors: Van Aswegen EJ , Brink HIL , Steyn PJN
Published: November 2012

The purpose of this inquiry was to construct a model for facilitation of critical reflective practice, based on thorough analysis of the main concepts (critical thinking and reflection), related viewpoints, models and theories; and the data gathered and analyzed during, the naturalistic inquiry. The constructed model evolved from empirical observations, intuitive insights of the inquirer and from deductions combining ideas from several fields of inquiry. The model for facilitation of critical reflective practice postualates that practitioners have the inherent potential to change from auto-pilot practice to critical reflective practice. The purpose of the model is the facilitation of heightened awarenss of the self, to enable health care professionals to consciously meet community needs and expectations. The desired outcome is transformative intellectuals who will strive to empower others to become critical reflective learners and practitioners themselves. The process followed during the construction of the model and the constructed model will be discussed in three (3) articles, namely: • A model for facilitation of critical reflective practice: Part I - Introductory discussion and explanation of the phases followed to construct the model. • A model for facilitation of critical reflective practice: Part II - Conceptual analysis within the context of constructing the model. • A model for facilitation of critical reflective practice: Part III - Description of the model.
Distance education doctoral program for nurses as offered by the University of South Africa (UNISA)
Authors: Ehlers VJ
Published: November 2012

The purpose of this article is to provide brief overviews of distance education, the development of the University of South Africa (Unisa) and the Department of Advanced Nursing Sciences at this university. Doctoral programs as offered by this Department will be discussed in some detail. Distance education courses are offered throughout the world, but doctoral programs, especially in the field of Nursing Sciences, are not offered by all distance education institutions.
A comparative analysis of ethical development of student nurses registered for a basic degree and basic diploma programme in KwaZulu Natal
Authors: Mtshali NG , Khanyile T
Published: November 2012

A comparative descriptive study was conducted to establish whether the Comprehensive Basic Nursing Course (CBNC) is able to develop students ethically, and how educational preparation from two different programmes (basic degree and basic diploma) influence their ethical development. This study was conducted because of the concerns on the escalating number of litigations instituted against nurses. Several studies have indicated that some of these litigations are as a result of the growing complexity of the health care system and the society’s increasing awareness of their human rights. Some studies have shown that nurses are failing to make principled and ethically sound decisions because they are inadequately prepared to handle ethical issues in an ethically responsible manner. A purposively selected sample of third and fourth year students from both programmes was used. Data was collected from both groups through the use of questionnaires. The findings revealed that the students are developing ethically in a CBNC but the level of ethical development is influenced by their educational preparation, teaching approaches and strategies used, clinical environment, hospital bureaucracy, rules and policies.
Affairs of the heart: patients’ personal constructions of a cardiac event and their effect on lifestyle change
Authors: McKibbin EC , Wilson KG
Published: November 2012

The issue of why people do not always make appropriate lifestyle changes in response to a cardiac event has and continues to be of central importance to health practitioners. This paper addresses this issue from the perspective of the lived experience of persons who have suffered an acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The experiences of 10 persons admitted to the coronary care unit (CCU) of a South African clinic were richly described, making use of the grounded theory methodology. These descriptions were then used as a basis for the development of a contextualist theory of the experience of heart attacks. A central feature of the results was that the disease was mainly attributed to stress by the participants. This was in contrast to the explanations offered by the medical profession, who attribute this more to other modifiable risk factors such as smoking, high blood cholesterol, high blood pressure, and lack of exercise. This tension between lay and professional constructions of the aetiology of the condition is deemed to be of import in the recovery process. The paper further alludes to the goodness of fit which exists between the proposed grounded theory and the personal construct theory of George Kelly. The importance of personal constructions of the event is then used as the basis for a proposed intervention process aimed at addressing the difficulties AMI patients’ experience in making and sustaining lifestyle changes.
The life world of the adolescent with mental health problems
Authors: Peens T , Poggenpoel M
Published: November 2012

Adolescents are currently being more and more exposed to the expectations of parents, educators, health-workers/helpers and policy makers to meet the demands of society and conform to it. The perception arises that adults are not able to let the adolescent take responsibility for the HOW of his own life story, despite all the expectations and demands. Under the influence of the post-modernistic approach to science and the narrative therapy it appears that each person is an expert of his own life and that each person is responsible for the how and the writing and rewriting of his own life story. This means that even the adolescent with mental health problems is busy with the writing and rewriting of his life story till even unpleasant incidents and experiences gain new meaning. This demands from the adolescent with mental health problems to be actively involved with his treatment program while the therapist is a participating observer of the therapeutic events. A one-sided approach, where the therapist’s objectives and ideas make the difference in the treatment of adolescents with mental health problems, becomes redundant. An alternative approach is suggested where the adolescent with mental health problems becomes co-author of his own life story and his treatment program. In this research the researcher aimed to explore and describe the HOW of the life world of the adolescent with mental health problems. The utilization of the case-study format as research method enabled an in-depth, holistic description of the life world of the adolescent with mental health problems. The implementation of the strategies to ensure trustworthiness, as described by Guba was applied to ensure the validity and reliability of this study. Focus was specifically placed on the application of the strategy of cross validation. This implies that multiple datacollection sources, different experts, theories and respondents were utilized in the exploration of the life world of the adolescent with mental health problems before this life word was described in depth. The researcher makes a few conclusions and based on these make recommendations for application in practice, education and research.
Student nurses’ needs for developing basic study skills
Authors: Fischer M , Boshoff ELD , Ehlers VJ
Published: November 2012

One of the key responsibilities of the nurse educator is to develop student nurses’ abilities regarding self-directed study. Self-directed study requires inter alia, the ability to find information, synthesis and consequent application and integration of the information in practice. The development of the abovementioned skills does not only imply a multidimensional approach to the student in totality, but also requires the meticulous involvement of the student in her/his own learning. The latter also assumes that students possess certain essential skills relevant to learning and studying. From the literature it is evident that secondary schooling in general, does not prepare students adequately for tertiary education. This research intended to find answers to the questions whether student nurses require guidance regarding the development of specifically identified study skills, the guidance provided and whether the guidance provided was sufficient. A descriptive survey was done in order to address the above questions. The research instruments (questionnaires) were completed (during 1997) by nurse educators and student nurses in the Western Cape. On completion of the analysis and interpretation of the data, the researcher concluded that student nurses expressed a need for more guidance regarding the development of basic study skills ant that existing student support programs did not address all these needs adequately. Furthermore, it was concluded that the language medium of the prescribed study material had a profound effect on the learning and study proceses of student nurses. Based on the conclusion, various recommendations were made concerning different facets of the teaching/learning event., in order to enhance students’ learning and studying skills. Mastery of these skills can be regarded as being important prerequisites for effective, responsible, independent professional practice.
The role of the enrolled nursing auxiliary in a selected health care administration
Authors: Mabunda ET , Booyens S
Published: November 2012

The purpose of the study was to determine the contribution of nursing auxiliaries towards health care services,against their scope of practice. The sample consisted of nursing auxiliaries in the Gazankulu area ,in the Northern Transvaal.The findings revealed that nursing auxiliaries are presently an essential component of nursing services rendered in Gazankulu,but that apart from their prescribed role,they are also engaged in activities which should be performed by enrolled and professional nurses,and general assistants.A need for education is apparent for all categories of nursing staff regarding the scope of practice of nursing auxiliaries.
Nurse educators’ perceptions of OSCE as a clinical evaluation method
Authors: Chabeli MM
Published: November 2012

The South African Qualifications Authority, and the South African Nursing Council are in pursuit of quality nursing education to enable the learners to practise as independent and autonomous practitioners. The educational programme should focus on the facilitation of critical and reflective thinking skills that will help the learner to make rational decisions and solve problems. A way of achieving this level of functioning is the use of assessment and evaluation methods that measure the learners’ clinical competence holistically. This article is focused on the perceptions of twenty nurse educators, purposively selected from three Nursing Colleges affiliated to a university in Gauteng, regarding the use of OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) as a clinical evaluation method within a qualitative and descriptive research strategy. Three focus group interviews were conducted in different sessions. A descriptive content analysis was used. Trustworthiness was ensured by using Lincoln and Guba’s model (1985). The results revealed both positive and negative aspects of OSCE as a clinical evaluation method with regard to: administrative aspects; evaluators; learners; procedures/instruments and evaluation. The conclusion drawn from the related findings is that OSCE does not measure the learners’ clinical competence holistically. It is therefore recommended that the identified negative perception be taken as challenges faced by nurse educators and that the positive aspects be strengthened. One way of meeting these recommendations is the use of varied alternative methods for clinical assessment and evaluation that focus on the holistic measurement of the learners’ clinical competence.
Tobacco use among black South African university students: attitudes, risk awareness and health locus of control
Authors: Peltzer K
Published: November 2012

Objectives: To provide data on African/black South African university students’ tobacco use status, belief in the benefits to health of not smoking, risk awareness in terms of knowledge of the links between smoking and disease, health locus of control, value for health, subjective health status and well-being. Design: Cross sectional. Setting: University of the North Subjects: 793 Black University students from non-health courses chosen by random sampling, of these 370 (46.7%) were males and 423 (53.3%) were females in the age range of 18 to 25 years (M age 21.0 years, SD=3.48). Main Outcome Measures: A measure of smoking, the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale, the Health as a Value Scale, and a measure for subjective health and subjective well-being. Results: The average prevalence of current tobacco use was 15% in men and 1% in women. The proportion of tobacco users who were classified as light users (1-10 per day) averaged 10% in men and 1% in women. Age and being male were significantly positively associated with status and frequency of tobacco use. Awareness of the link between smoking and lung cancer was high (93%), but awareness of the role of smoking in heart disease was very low (16%). The importance to health of not smoking was associated with smoking status (non-smoking versus smoking). Overall, 75% of the current smokers stated that they would like to reduce the amount they smoked. Poor subjective health status and low subjective well-being was associated with smoking status. No significant differences were found among non-tobacco users and tobacco users in relation to the three subscales of the Health Locus of Control (Internal, Chance, and Powerful others) and Value for health. Conclusion: For about 9% of the male students investigated, a high risk exists to become regular tobacco users for the next 30 years.
Psychiatric research in South Africa : a systematic review of Medline publications
Authors: Fourie J , Flisher AJ , Emsley RA , Stein DJ
Published: November 2012

There is debate about the future path that medical and psychiatric research in South Africa should take. In particular, there have been calls to make research more relevant to the needs of the population. There is, however, little systematically collected data on the nature, strengths, and flaws of past psychiatric research in this country.
Novice nurse educators’ lecture room instructional management competence
Authors: Durrheim M , Ehlers VJ
Published: November 2012

The lecture room instructional management competence (LRIMC) of novice nurse educators (NNEs) in the Republic of South Africa (RSA) was investigated by means of a quantitative exploratory survey using questionnaires. The findings indicated that NNEs benefited from mentors’ guidance, experienced reality shock on entering their first teaching situation, and lacked LRIMC - according to the perceptions of the NNEs themselves, their students and their mentors. NNEs could benefit from effective orientation programmes and from ongoing in-service education programmes as well as from the availability of mentors assigned to specific NNEs.
Selection of magister learners in nursing science at the Rand Afrikaans University
Authors: Botes A
Published: November 2012

Selection of learners implies that candidates are assessed according to criteria with the purpose of selecting the most suitable learners for the course. A magister qualification is on level 8A of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). The purpose of a magister qualification in Nursing is the development of advanced research, clinical, professional, managerial, educational, leadership and consultative abilities (knowledge, skills, values and attitudes) for the promotion of individual, family, group and community health. From the above introduction it becomes clear that there is a high expectations of a person with a magister qualification. Such a person should be a specialist, scientist, leader and role model in the profession. A magister programme is human-power intensive as well as capital intensive for both the learner and higher education institutions. It is therefore important to select learners with the ability to achieve the outcomes of the programme. Limited research has been conducted on the selection of post graduate learners.
The image of the nursing profession as perceived by the community members of three adjacent residential areas of Empangeni in KwaZulu-Natal
Authors: Kunene P J , Nzimande PN , Ntuli PA
Published: November 2012

The study was undertaken out of concern that nurses and the nursing profession project a negative image to the public they serve. Diverse aspects of nursing examined in this study included standards or quality of nursing care and its influence on encouraging clients to utilise health care services, communication, attitudes, expertise, availability at all times and patients’/clients’ participation in decision-making. Nurses are part of the communities they serve. The rationale for the study was that nurses should be alert to perceptions of the communities about the service they provide, whether expressed formally or informally. Survival of nursing as a profession is dependent upon the positive impact it has on consumers in the past, present and the future. The aim of the study was to discover, through a systematic, scientific inquiry, the positive and negative perceptions that communities have about nursing. An exploratory, descriptive study was done in KwaZulu-Natal on a sample of 50 participants from three adjacent historically Black residential areas (townships) using questionnaires. Findings of the study were contrary to the assumption that nursing has a negative image. All aspects except one were rated very good or good by the majority of the participants. Those who had negative perceptions, though in the minority, highlighted important reasons directed at both the authorities and the nurses. These were used as a basis for recommendations for further improvement of the image of nursing. The area of gross dissatisfaction among the majority was feeling unsafe with nurses getting increasingly involved in unionism, which would lead to abandonment of patients in times of industrial action.
Life stories of families with a terminally ill child
Authors: Hechter S , Poggenpoel M , Myburgh C
Published: November 2012

Family units with a terminally ill child have a tendency to withdraw and this isolation may lead to problems in their mental health. A tendency with psychologists, clergy and helpers from other professions is to act as ideal experts on the lives of saddened people. From painful personal experience, this does not seem to enable acquiescence. Therefore, the aim of research on families with terminally ill children, was to explore and describe their lives and to develop an approach to facilitate their families to obtain acquiescence. In this article however, attention will be given to the life-world of families with terminally ill children. The research consists of two phases. In phase one the experiences of four families with terminally ill children are explored and described by means of phenomenological, unstructured, in-depth interviews. In phase two an acquiescence approach, which was designed for educational psychologists to facilitate families with terminally ill children to achieve acquiscence, is described. This approach is based on results from phase one. This article focuses on phase one. In this phase four families were interviewed individually, in the privacy of their homes. The interviews were audiotaped, and were transcribed for the purpose of data gathering. The data was analysed according to Tesch’s method and a literature control was performed to verify the results. Guba’s model for the validity of qualitative research was used.
Problem-based case study to enhance critical thinking in student nurses
Authors: Mogale NM
Published: November 2012

The use of traditional teaching methods, for example the lecture method, does not stimulate critical thinking in student nurses. This problem can be solved by the utilisation of problem-based case study in the classroom/clinical setting. The purpose of this study is to describe guidelines for the implementation of problem-based case study in a clinical setting among first year, comprehensive course students at the Northern Province College of Nursing: Sovenga campus. The research design of this study was qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual and was conducted in the following phases: Phase 1: The development and implementation of a program for problem-based case study in the clinical setting; Phase II: The experiences of student nurses who were exposed to problem-based case study in the clinical setting; Phase III: The perceptions of tutors regarding the implementation of problem-based case study in the clinical setting (focus group), and; ase IV: Guidelines for the implementation of problem-based case study. The data from Phases I, II and III were used to formulate guidelines for the implementation of problem-based case study. The sample group consisted of all 69 first year student nurses at the Northern Province College of Nursing: Sovenga campus and ten tutors teaching clinical courses at the same campus. The Tesch (1990) approach is used for data analysis. Nine guidelines for the implementation of a problem-based case study approach were formulated and recommendations for development of an instrument to measure critical thinking in nursing were recommended.
Nursing care of the patient undergoing alcohol detoxification
Authors: Norrish M E , Jooste K
Published: November 2012

Nurses are challenged with the task of holistic care for the alcohol dependent patient. The objective of the study was to explore and describe the opinions of male patients regarding the holistic care in a selected detoxification unit in Gauteng. A quantitative, explorative and descriptive design was employed utilizing interviews with a structured questionnaire as method of data collection. After the data was analysed (frequencies were used) the results were presented according to the five client variables of the Neuman Systems Model. Positive and negative results on the physiological, psychological, socio cultural, developmental and spiritual needs of the client were identified. This article aims at identifying crucial holistic aspects of nursing care of the alcohol dependent patient.
The attitude of community health nurses towards integration of traditional healers in primary health care in North-West Province
Authors: Peu MD , Troskie R , Hattingh SP
Published: November 2012

South Africa is called “the rainbow nation” because it has so many different cultures. These have an impact on the provision of primary health care. The purpose of this research is to foster good relationships between community health nurses and traditional healers and to explore, identify and describe the attitude of community health nurses towards the integration of traditional healers into primary health care. A non-experimental, explorative and descriptive research strategy was designed to explore the working relationship between community health nurses and traditional healers. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Quantitative as well as qualitative data analysis techniques were adopted to interpret the findings. The results indicated that respondents demonstrated positive attitudes towards working with traditional healers, especially in the provision of primary health care. Positive opinions, ideas and views were provided about the integration of traditional healers into primary health care. Respect, recognition and sensitivity were emphasized by respondents.
Theory-practice integration in selected clinical situations
Authors: Davhana-Maselesele M , Tjallinks J E , Norval MS
Published: November 2012

The current changes in health care systems challenge knowledgeable, mature and independent practitioners to integrate theoretical content with practice. The aim of this study was to investigate the problems of integrating theory with practice in selected clinical nursing situations. The study focused on rendering of family planning services to clients as a component of Community Nursing Science. Structured observation schedules were used to observe the theoretical content of the curriculum as well as the practical application of what has been taught in the clinical area. The findings of the study revealed that there was a need for an integrated holistic curriculum, which would address the needs of the community. It was concluded that a problem-based and community-based curriculum, intersectoral collaboration between college and hospital managements and student involvement in all processes of teaching and learning would improve the integration of theory and practice. There also appeared to be a need for tutors to be more involved in clinical teaching and accompaniment.
Needs of frail elderly people in informal settlements
Authors: Du Rand P , Engelbrecht K
Published: November 2012

The frail elderly in informal settlements find themselves in an extremely vulnerable position due to a number of factors, namely, their increasing dependency status, limited resources and adverse physical environment. Various aspects that influence the aged in their present environment will be highlighted. A survey method was used to explore and to describe the world in which they live in informal areas. The attitude, expectation and needs of the elderly in respect of their care was also determined. A random cluster sample was taken. Data was collected by means of interviews in terms of a semi-structured questionnaire. It appears that the frail elderly were happy in the environment in which they received care in spite of their unfavourable physical environment and limited resources. The communities where the frail elderly lived were largely unaware of the valuable inputs they can make regarding the care of the aged. This necessitates the development of programs in the heart of communities, owned by communities, where all role players in the care of the aged participate.
Abortion - a philosophical perspective
Authors: Jali MN
Published: November 2012

The central issue in the abortion debate is the moral status of the conceptus. There are two positions that argue this issue. At one extreme are the views of the pro-life group which argues that human life begins at the moment of conception whilst at the other are views of the pro-choice group that argues in favour of a woman’s right to self-determination. Two basic principles come into conflict in this debate, namely the Value of Life and that of Self-determination. In this paper the arguments forwarded by each group in justification of its position are presented. Also discussed is the moderate developmental viewpoint which accepts that the genetic basis of an individual is established at conception. Some development, however, has to occur before the conceptus can be called a person. The fact that an entity is a potential person is a prima facie reason for not destroying it. On the other hand, we need not conclude that a person has a right to life by virtue of that potentiality. Simultaneously we should recognise that the right a potential entity has, may be nullified by the woman’s right to self-determination.
Strike action by nurses in South Africa: A value clarification
Authors: Muller Marie
Published: November 2012

The Labour Relations Act (South Africa, 1991) made provision for protected strike action by employees, subject to certain conditions, procedures and negotiated agreements. This led to the removal of the strike clause in the Nursing Act (South Africa, 1992). The labour rights of all citizens are entrenched in the Constitution of the country (South Africa, 1996). Participation in strike action by the nurse/ midwife, regardless of the legal requirements and specifications, does, however, pose an ethical question. It is therefore necessary to conduct a value clarification on strike action by nurses in South Africa. The purpose of this research is to explore and describe the perceived values of participants from an accessible population on this phenomenon. A qualitative, exploratory and descriptive research design was deployed. The perceived values of nurses on strike action were collected by means of an openended questionnaire/sketch. Over a period of three years a purposive and convenient sampling method was used, involving all the enrolled post basic nursing/midwifery students/ learners at a particular Nursing Education Institution. The justification of the sample was further enhanced by also collecting data on the participants’ age and provincial distribution location. Although a 63% sample realisation (of the accessible population) was achieved, this represents only 1,5% of the registered nursing/midwifery population in the country. A descriptive analysis of the participants’ age and provincial distribution was undertaken, as well as a content analysis of their perceived values on strike action. The mean age of the participants was 48 years, which could be attributed to the fact that most of them were enrolled for a post-basic Diploma in Community Nursing Science. Most of the responses (52,7%) were against strike action and 32,5% supported strike action by nurses as a constitutional and legal right. A fairly substantial number of participants (14,8%) expressed mixed views as to whether strike action by nurses is right or wrong. Some respondents (15,7%) also reflected confusion regarding the enactment of strike action and the removal of the strike clause from the nursing legislation. Although this study does not claim external validity due to inappropriate representation of the nursing profession, the nurse of today opposes strike action. It is recommended that the study be replicated at national level and that the values be entrenched and published in position papers of and by the regulatory and organised nursing profession.
Application and evaluation of a combination of socratice and learning through discussion techniques
Authors: Van Aswegen EJ , Brink HIL , Steyn PJN
Published: November 2012

This article has its genesis in the inquirer’s interest in the need for internalizing critical thinking, creative thinking and reflective skills in adult learners. As part of a broader study the inquirer used a combination of two techniques over a period of nine months, namely: Socratic discussion/questioning and Learning Through Discussion Technique. The inquirer within this inquiry elected mainly qualitative methods, because they were seen as more adaptable to dealing with multiple realities and more sensitive and adaptable to the many shaping influences and value patterns that may be encountered (Lincoln & Guba, 1989). Purposive sampling was used and sample size (n =10) was determined by the willingness of potential participants to enlist in the chosen techniques. Feedback from participants was obtained: (1) verbally after each discussion session, and (2) in written format after completion of the course content. The final/ summative evaluation was obtained through a semi-structured questionnaire. This was deemed necessary, in that the participants were already studying for the end of the year examination. For the purpose of this condensed report the inquirer reflected only on the feedback obtained with the help of the questionnaire. The empirical study showed that in spite of various adaptation problems experienced, eight (8) of the ten (10) participants felt positive toward the applied techniques.
Standards for perinatal education Part 1
Authors: Richter M.S.
Published: November 2012

Quality control in perinatal education is imperative, with the purpose to deliver a high quality and appropriate healthcare service to the family in the perinatal period. The purpose of this study was to develop valid standards for perinatal education in South Africa.
Breastfeeding practices of working women
Authors: Netshandama V.O.
Published: November 2012

Breastfeeding is the fundamental aspect of child rearing that a woman copes with. It creates a wonderful bond between mothers and their babies. The importance of breast feeding to child health is highlighted by the yearly World Breastfeeding week (Forste, Weiss & Lippincott 2001:291). Breastfeeding promotions in the Northern province like anywhere else in the country appear effective and visible enough to encourage women at all levels to breastfeed. Ironically, many women give up breastfeeding when they return to work because the thoughts of expressing their milk at work and the fiddling around with pumps and storage at work seem overwhelming (McAlpine 1998:80). Based on the assumption that breastfeeding requires commitment and determination, the researcher thought it was necessary to enquire about the experiences of working women on breastfeeding. Focus group interviews were conducted using a semi-structured format. Twenty-six women participated in three focus group discussions. The study was conducted in the suburban areas of the Northern Province, Soutpansberg region. Data was transcribed from a taped session and analysed using an open code method.
Changing stress levels through gaining information on stress
Authors: Madu S.N. , De Jong E.S.
Published: November 2012

Objective: The aim of this research was to find out the effect of the Information Phase of a Stress Management Program (SMP) on the perceptions of participants about their stress levels. Method: A total sample of 100 workers (nursing staff, private business men and women, laboratory assistants, the protective services [foreman and security staff], as well as people in human resources departments) took part in this study. All the participants were from the Northern and Gauteng Provinces in South Africa. The Combined Hassles and Uplifts Scale (Folkman & Lazarus, 1989) was used as an instrument to measure the perceived stress level of participants in a SMP. Result: A significant reduction in stress levels was achieved among those who received the Information Phase of the SMP only, as well as those who received the whole stress management techniques. There was no significant difference between the amount of reduction in perceived stress-levels achieved among those that received the Information Phase of the SMP only, compared to that of those who received the whole techniques. Conclusion: The authors conclude that where the resources are limited, only the information phase of a SMP may be given to desiring clients. That should help to save time and money spent on participating in SMPs. This should however not discourage the use of the whole SPM, where affordable. Keywords: Stress Management Programs, Information Phase, Perception, Stress Level.
A framework for caring in the human resource management process of nurses
Authors: Minnaar A.
Published: November 2012

The aim of this paper is to describe the provision of a human value system in nursing management that would lead to an environment conducive to quality of care to nurses. Caring is a complex phenomenon with caring concepts which emphasized the human element in human resource management in the health services. Watson (1985) focused on the philosophical and spiritual basis of caring. The ten carative factors as described by Watson (1985) were used as a framework for the application of caring to the human resource management process in nursing. This framework enables a basis for the development of a caring environment for the nurse manager, in which the nurse could experience caring. It served as a point of departure for a research study undertaken during 2000 on caring to the caregivers in health services.
A comparative analysis of pressure sore treatment modalities in community settings
Authors: Small N. , Mulder M. , Mackenzie M.J. , Nel M.
Published: November 2012

The management of pressure sores in community settings, poses a clinical problem which challenges the patient’s tolerance and the clinician’s diligence and ingenuity. Pressure sores can be painful, lead to infection and are associated with considerable morbidity and increased mortality (Patterson & Bennett, 1995:919; Bale, Banks, Hagelstein & Harding, 1998:65). Treatment costs of these wounds are high in terms of resources (Colin 1995:65; Wood, Griffiths & Stoner, 1997:256). However, since there are untold cost in terms of pain and suffering to the patient, it is impossible to calculate the true cost of pressure sores (Dealey, 1994:87).
Incorrect condom programming in the primary health care setting: “A prescription for a disaster”?
Authors: De Wet M. , Ackermann L. , Crichton A.
Published: November 2012

In the effort to stem the HIV pandemic, the promotion of the correct and consistent use of condoms has to be a priority in the primary health care sector. This study, concentrating on the southern Free State, sought to identify obstacles to condom usage and to develop strategies to encourage condom usage. Both primary health care workers and their clients served as respondents in the study.
Community mental health nurses’ experience of decentralised and integrated psychiatric-mental health care services in the Southern mental health region of Botswana (part 1)
Authors: Maphorisa M.K. , Poggenpoel M. , Myburgh C.P.H.
Published: November 2012

Since the inception of the decentralisation and integration of psychiatric mental health care services into the general health care delivery system in Botswana, there has never been a study to investigate what community mental health nurses are experiencing due to the policy. Many of these nurses have been leaving the scantily staffed mental health care services in increasing numbers to join other sectors of health or elsewhere since the beginning of the implementation of the policy. During the research study, phenomenological in-depth interviews were conducted with three groups of 12 community mental health nurses altogether. An open central question was posed to each group followed by probing questions to explore and describe these nurses’ experience of the decentralisation and integration of psychiatric-mental health care services. After the data was analysed, related literature was incorporated and guidelines for advanced psychiatric nurses were formulated and described to assist these nurses to cope with the decentralisation and integration of psychiatric-mental health care services. The guidelines were set up for the management of the community mental health nurses who are experiencing obstacles in the quest for mental health which also interfere with their capabilities as mental health care providers.
Ondersteuningstelsels vir pasiënte met verworwe immuniteitsgebreksindroom
Authors: Uys H.A. , Roos S.D. , Uys H.H.M.
Published: November 2012

Gedurende die navorser se dienstydperk as infeksiebeheerverpleegkundige, was daar noue kontak met pasiente met Verworwe Immuniteitsgebreksindroom (VIGS). Gedurende hierdie kontak is verskeie behoeftes van die pasient met betrekking tot gesondheidsdienste en ondersteuningstelsels geidentifiseer. Diskriminasie en die toets van pasiente vir Menslike Immuniteitsgebrekvirus (MIV) teenliggame sonder hulle toestemming, is van die leemtes wat geidentifiseer is. Die doel van die studie is om die aard en die omvang van die omvattende gesondheidsorgdienslewering vir pasiente met VIGS te bepaal. Die navorsingsontwerp is ’n kontekstuele, verkennende en beskrywende opname wat in die noordelike helfte van die Gauteng Provinsie uitgevoer is. Kriteria oor die aard en die omvang van omvattende gesondheidsorgdienste te bepaal is met behulp van literatuurstudie opgestel. Data is deur middel van gestruktureerde onderhoude met verpleegkundiges werksaam by die ge'fdentifiseerde dienste en pasiente wat van die dienste gebruik maak, ingesamel.
Portfolio assessment and evaluation: Implications and guidelines for clinical nursing education
Authors: Chabeli M.M.
Published: November 2012

With the advent of Outcomes-Based Education in South Africa, the quality of nursing education is debatable, especially with regard to the assessment and evaluation of clinical nursing education, which is complex and renders the validity and reliability of the methods used questionable. This paper seeks to explore and describe the use of portfolio assessment and evaluation, its implications and guidelines for its effective use in nursing education. Firstly, the concepts of assessment, evaluation, portfolio and alternative methods of evaluation are defined. Secondly, a comparison of the characteristics of the old (traditional) methods and the new alternative methods of evaluation is made. Thirdly, through deductive analysis, synthesis and inference, implications and guidelines for the effective use of portfolio assessment and evaluation are described.
Family-Centred Care in Paediatric and Neonatal Nursing- A Literature Review
Authors: Irlam L.K. , Bruce J.C.
Published: November 2012

A literature review of family-centred care in paediatric and neonatal nursing was undertaken as part of a research project. This research intended to ascertain the knowledge and attitudes of paediatric and neonatal qualified nurses and nurse educators towards family-centred care as it pertains to infants and children in hospitals in the Gauteng Province. A definition of family-centred care is difficult to formulate mainly due to the lack of consensus about its meaning. Additionally, the diverse societal contexts within which family-centred care is applied further complicate its definition. Internationally in developed countries, family-centred care is viewed as care, which is parent-led in consultation with the nurse practitioner. A family-centred care model for the South African context needs to be developed with the focus on parent participation, a precursor of family-centred care. This article traces the early developments in parental care for hospitalised children with specific reference to the USA, the UK and South Africa. Precursor concepts in family-centred care are described followed by a cursory overview of the reality of family-centred care, its cultural dimensions and matters of family strengths and choices in family-centred care.