Management of medical records for healthcare service delivery at the Victoria Public Hospital in the Eastern Cape Province :South Africa
- Authors: Mathebeni- Bokwe,Pyrene
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Medical records -- Management Records -- Management Medical records
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6517 , vital:30470
- Description: The study sought to investigate the management of medical records for healthcare service at the Victoria Public Hospital in the Eastern Cape Province. The objectives of the study were to describe the present records management practices in Victoria Hospital; find out the existing infrastructure for the management of patient medical records at the Victoria Hospital; determine the compliance of patient medical records management in Victoria Hospital with relevant national legislative and regulatory framework; find out the security of patient medical records at the Victoria Hospital. Quantitative and qualitative approaches were employed. The sample was drawn from the service providers and from the healthcare service users. Questionnaires, interviews and observation were used to collect data. The findings showed that Victoria Hospital uses manual records management system in the creation, maintenance and usage of records. In the findings, there were challenges related to misfiling and missing patient folders which sometimes lead to the creation of new patient folders. Also, the study discovered that the time spent in the retrieval of patient folders could negatively affect the timely delivery of healthcare services. The study recommended the adoption of electronic records management system as most public healthcare institutions in the country are rapidly shifting to electronic records management system. The use of electronic records management system is believed to be efficiently and effectively promoting easy accessibility, retrieval of patient medical records and allows easy communication amongst the healthcare service institutions and healthcare practitioners.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Mathebeni- Bokwe,Pyrene
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Medical records -- Management Records -- Management Medical records
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6517 , vital:30470
- Description: The study sought to investigate the management of medical records for healthcare service at the Victoria Public Hospital in the Eastern Cape Province. The objectives of the study were to describe the present records management practices in Victoria Hospital; find out the existing infrastructure for the management of patient medical records at the Victoria Hospital; determine the compliance of patient medical records management in Victoria Hospital with relevant national legislative and regulatory framework; find out the security of patient medical records at the Victoria Hospital. Quantitative and qualitative approaches were employed. The sample was drawn from the service providers and from the healthcare service users. Questionnaires, interviews and observation were used to collect data. The findings showed that Victoria Hospital uses manual records management system in the creation, maintenance and usage of records. In the findings, there were challenges related to misfiling and missing patient folders which sometimes lead to the creation of new patient folders. Also, the study discovered that the time spent in the retrieval of patient folders could negatively affect the timely delivery of healthcare services. The study recommended the adoption of electronic records management system as most public healthcare institutions in the country are rapidly shifting to electronic records management system. The use of electronic records management system is believed to be efficiently and effectively promoting easy accessibility, retrieval of patient medical records and allows easy communication amongst the healthcare service institutions and healthcare practitioners.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Managing conflict in the library information services of selected universities
- Authors: Dos Santos, Desiree
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Conflict management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Academic libraries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Administration , Technology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Information services , Academic librarians -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: vital:8325 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020307
- Description: Academic libraries are not immune to conflict; various important external and internal factors underlie conflict. Change, both external and internal, leads to interpersonal conflict amongst librarians which is caused by differing goals, policies, rules and decisions. Technology has been the major change in the digital era and academic libraries embarking on meeting the needs of the users have to manage change. It is important to understand how change evolves in order to manage it and the faster the change, the more conflict can be expected. The main purpose of this study is to investigate change and conflict in library and information services. The study collected data from two selected academic libraries - Fort Hare and Walter Sisulu. The reason for this choice is that the two libraries are from the Eastern Border region and strategically located to serve the deep rural and poverty-stricken communities. Both libraries are from merged institutions, under-developed and faced with change and conflict. Data was gathered by means of a literature study and face-to-face, semi-structured interviews with six participants in each library: two librarians in senior, two middle management and two librarians occupying lower level positions. Purposive sampling was used to select participants who fit the criteria and who could contribute to the study. The findings reveal that library staff experience stress and conflict because of external and internal factors of change impacting the academic environment. The study generated important findings which are capable of guiding academic library management on how to manage change effectively in the „new‟ electronic environment. The findings show that understanding conflict also equips management with strategies and techniques to manage conflict effectively. This study offers valuable insights into the lived conflict experiences and perceptions of librarians and sheds much light on the role of conflict management in these environments. This study will contribute to the management of conflict in information services in university libraries and will be an innovative application of conflict theory to the library discipline.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Dos Santos, Desiree
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Conflict management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Academic libraries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Administration , Technology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Information services , Academic librarians -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: vital:8325 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020307
- Description: Academic libraries are not immune to conflict; various important external and internal factors underlie conflict. Change, both external and internal, leads to interpersonal conflict amongst librarians which is caused by differing goals, policies, rules and decisions. Technology has been the major change in the digital era and academic libraries embarking on meeting the needs of the users have to manage change. It is important to understand how change evolves in order to manage it and the faster the change, the more conflict can be expected. The main purpose of this study is to investigate change and conflict in library and information services. The study collected data from two selected academic libraries - Fort Hare and Walter Sisulu. The reason for this choice is that the two libraries are from the Eastern Border region and strategically located to serve the deep rural and poverty-stricken communities. Both libraries are from merged institutions, under-developed and faced with change and conflict. Data was gathered by means of a literature study and face-to-face, semi-structured interviews with six participants in each library: two librarians in senior, two middle management and two librarians occupying lower level positions. Purposive sampling was used to select participants who fit the criteria and who could contribute to the study. The findings reveal that library staff experience stress and conflict because of external and internal factors of change impacting the academic environment. The study generated important findings which are capable of guiding academic library management on how to manage change effectively in the „new‟ electronic environment. The findings show that understanding conflict also equips management with strategies and techniques to manage conflict effectively. This study offers valuable insights into the lived conflict experiences and perceptions of librarians and sheds much light on the role of conflict management in these environments. This study will contribute to the management of conflict in information services in university libraries and will be an innovative application of conflict theory to the library discipline.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Managing stakeholders involvement in website communication: a comparative study of Lesotho and South African national websites
- Authors: Mota, Molikuoa Adolphine
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Government Web sites -- Lesotho , Government Web sites -- South Africa , Electronic government information -- Lesotho , Electronic government information -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3529 , vital:20439
- Description: Engagement of stakeholders in government website communication has emerged as an important strategy that can build trust, improve transparency and strengthen loyalty between governments and their citizens. This is because websites provide access to a broader spectrum, offer unlimited storage of information and rapid feedback. This main purpose of the study therefore was to find out how the Lesotho and South African national governments utilise their websites to engage stakeholder’s in websites communication for maintaining and building mutual relationships. The literature review for this study covered the role of public relations in government, different kinds of governments’ stakeholders and the importance of engaging stakeholders in website communication for relationship building and maintenance of such relationships. The methodology that was employed involved analysis of twenty websites which were selected using purposive sampling technique. Coding sheets were designed and used to collect data based on the three principles of dialogic communication namely: Ease of interface, Generation of return visits, Usefulness of information and the two models of communication which are One-way communication and Two-way communication. The results revealed limited efforts for stakeholder’s engagement in both Lesotho and South African government ministries and made recommendations on how this challenge can be addressed. The study concluded that the two countries can improve stakeholders’ participation and engagement in websites communication by aligning their websites with the three principles of dialogic communication and two models of communication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Mota, Molikuoa Adolphine
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Government Web sites -- Lesotho , Government Web sites -- South Africa , Electronic government information -- Lesotho , Electronic government information -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3529 , vital:20439
- Description: Engagement of stakeholders in government website communication has emerged as an important strategy that can build trust, improve transparency and strengthen loyalty between governments and their citizens. This is because websites provide access to a broader spectrum, offer unlimited storage of information and rapid feedback. This main purpose of the study therefore was to find out how the Lesotho and South African national governments utilise their websites to engage stakeholder’s in websites communication for maintaining and building mutual relationships. The literature review for this study covered the role of public relations in government, different kinds of governments’ stakeholders and the importance of engaging stakeholders in website communication for relationship building and maintenance of such relationships. The methodology that was employed involved analysis of twenty websites which were selected using purposive sampling technique. Coding sheets were designed and used to collect data based on the three principles of dialogic communication namely: Ease of interface, Generation of return visits, Usefulness of information and the two models of communication which are One-way communication and Two-way communication. The results revealed limited efforts for stakeholder’s engagement in both Lesotho and South African government ministries and made recommendations on how this challenge can be addressed. The study concluded that the two countries can improve stakeholders’ participation and engagement in websites communication by aligning their websites with the three principles of dialogic communication and two models of communication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Managing the procurement of learner teacher support material (LTSM) in the Eastern Cape Department of Education
- Gobe, Mziwamadoda Chumasande
- Authors: Gobe, Mziwamadoda Chumasande
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Government purchasing , Industrial procurement -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24846 , vital:63616
- Description: The use of learner teacher support material (LTSM) was introduced with the aim of improve the education quality in South Africa. However, the procurement of the learner teacher support material has had several challenges. The study therefore was aimed at assessing the management of the procurement of LTSM in the Eastern Cape which is done by the Eastern Cape Department of Education. The aims of the study therefore were, to provide a full description of the current supply chain management practices of the ECDOE, examine the strengths and weaknesses of the current procurement management model in the acquisition of LTSM and investigate alternative selection, delivery and management models. To attain these aims data was collected using both the quantitative and qualitative methods. The use of the two methods helped to establish a balance in collecting data as the research sought to use both quantitative and qualitative data. The research used a case study design.The research instruments that were used to collected data were questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The data for the study was provided by school principals, district officials and ECDoE officials. These were the best participants for the study as they have information on the current procurement system. The data was analysed in themes. The data was presented and discussed in relation to other studies that have been conducted on similar topics. The study found that the current procurement system is flawed due to several reasons like lack of clarity on roles and responsibilities, training and other factors discussed in the study. The study also found that there are inherent strengths and weaknesses in the current procurement model. The study found that the weaknesses can be addressed. The study also found that improvements and alternatives are possible for procurement. The study suggested several recommendations. Some of the recommendations include training the current staff involved in the supply chain management of the procurement system. The other being clarifying the roles and responsibilities of the stakeholders involved in the procurement process. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce. 2015
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Gobe, Mziwamadoda Chumasande
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Government purchasing , Industrial procurement -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24846 , vital:63616
- Description: The use of learner teacher support material (LTSM) was introduced with the aim of improve the education quality in South Africa. However, the procurement of the learner teacher support material has had several challenges. The study therefore was aimed at assessing the management of the procurement of LTSM in the Eastern Cape which is done by the Eastern Cape Department of Education. The aims of the study therefore were, to provide a full description of the current supply chain management practices of the ECDOE, examine the strengths and weaknesses of the current procurement management model in the acquisition of LTSM and investigate alternative selection, delivery and management models. To attain these aims data was collected using both the quantitative and qualitative methods. The use of the two methods helped to establish a balance in collecting data as the research sought to use both quantitative and qualitative data. The research used a case study design.The research instruments that were used to collected data were questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The data for the study was provided by school principals, district officials and ECDoE officials. These were the best participants for the study as they have information on the current procurement system. The data was analysed in themes. The data was presented and discussed in relation to other studies that have been conducted on similar topics. The study found that the current procurement system is flawed due to several reasons like lack of clarity on roles and responsibilities, training and other factors discussed in the study. The study also found that there are inherent strengths and weaknesses in the current procurement model. The study found that the weaknesses can be addressed. The study also found that improvements and alternatives are possible for procurement. The study suggested several recommendations. Some of the recommendations include training the current staff involved in the supply chain management of the procurement system. The other being clarifying the roles and responsibilities of the stakeholders involved in the procurement process. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce. 2015
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Mapping and prediction of archaeological sites of habitation by modern humans using GIS and expert mapping on the south coast of South Africa
- Authors: Kleyn, Philippa May
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Geographic information systems -- South Africa , Archaeological sites , Kitchen-middens -- South Africa , Prehistoric peoples -- South Africa , Prehistoric peoples -- Dwellings -- South Africa , Geological mapping -- South Africa , Coastal archaeology -- South Africa , Archaeological significance -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4890 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018662
- Description: South Africa contains many archaeological resources including shell middens from the Middle Stone Age (MSA) and Later Stone Age (LSA). These shell middens give researchers insight into the behaviour of modern humans where the first fossil evidence appears in Africa around 200 000 years ago (Klein, 2008). Research into shell middens is therefore vital to understand the origin of human kind. This study investigates whether Geographical Information Systems (GIS) is a useful tool for predicting locations of unknown shell midden sites using the characteristics of known areas of modern human habitation. This was done using suitability analysis and expert mapping techniques. Ground truthing of the results of the desktop analysis revealed that GIS is not a useful tool for predicting sites of modern habitation as the characteristics that determine human habitation are too variable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Kleyn, Philippa May
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Geographic information systems -- South Africa , Archaeological sites , Kitchen-middens -- South Africa , Prehistoric peoples -- South Africa , Prehistoric peoples -- Dwellings -- South Africa , Geological mapping -- South Africa , Coastal archaeology -- South Africa , Archaeological significance -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4890 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018662
- Description: South Africa contains many archaeological resources including shell middens from the Middle Stone Age (MSA) and Later Stone Age (LSA). These shell middens give researchers insight into the behaviour of modern humans where the first fossil evidence appears in Africa around 200 000 years ago (Klein, 2008). Research into shell middens is therefore vital to understand the origin of human kind. This study investigates whether Geographical Information Systems (GIS) is a useful tool for predicting locations of unknown shell midden sites using the characteristics of known areas of modern human habitation. This was done using suitability analysis and expert mapping techniques. Ground truthing of the results of the desktop analysis revealed that GIS is not a useful tool for predicting sites of modern habitation as the characteristics that determine human habitation are too variable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Margaret Hilda Thatcher: a psychobiographical study
- Authors: Marx, Milisa
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Psychology -- Biographical methods , Developmental psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4548 , vital:20616
- Description: Psychobiographies typically explore and describe historically significant, extraordinary and enigmatic individuals' psychological development through the lens of psychological theory. The primary aim of this psychobiographical study was to explore and describe the developmental life stages of Margaret Hilda Thatcher (1925 - 2013) through the application of Erik Erikson's theory of Psychosocial Development. Erikson's theory takes a holistic, biopsychosocial approach to the lifelong development of the individual, emphasising ego development. A secondary objective was to clarify the propositions of Erikson's theory by applying it to Thatcher's life. Margaret Thatcher was the leader of the Conservative Party in Great Britain and was the first ever female British Prime Minister. As a political leader, she was driven by conviction and regarded as controversial in that she divided the opinion of the British people. She served as Prime Minister for three consecutive terms and was eventually ousted by her peers. After leaving office, she received the title of Baroness Thatcher of Kesteven and later became a member of the highest order of knighthood in England: The Order of the Garter. Psychobiographical research is qualitative and follows a single, case study approach. Through using a purposive sampling strategy, Thatcher was selected as a research subject on the basis of interest value and uniqueness. Data were selected from primary and secondary sources, enhancing the validity of the study, and were analysed according to Alexander's nine identifiers of salience within the conceptual framework derived from Erikson's theory. When considering the findings of the research, it became evident that Margaret Thatcher's development coincides with those constructs proposed in Erikson's theory, and thus emphasised its value in understanding human development. The findings from this psychobiographical study contributed to the understanding of Thatcher's life and are likely to stimulate further research in psychology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Marx, Milisa
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Psychology -- Biographical methods , Developmental psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4548 , vital:20616
- Description: Psychobiographies typically explore and describe historically significant, extraordinary and enigmatic individuals' psychological development through the lens of psychological theory. The primary aim of this psychobiographical study was to explore and describe the developmental life stages of Margaret Hilda Thatcher (1925 - 2013) through the application of Erik Erikson's theory of Psychosocial Development. Erikson's theory takes a holistic, biopsychosocial approach to the lifelong development of the individual, emphasising ego development. A secondary objective was to clarify the propositions of Erikson's theory by applying it to Thatcher's life. Margaret Thatcher was the leader of the Conservative Party in Great Britain and was the first ever female British Prime Minister. As a political leader, she was driven by conviction and regarded as controversial in that she divided the opinion of the British people. She served as Prime Minister for three consecutive terms and was eventually ousted by her peers. After leaving office, she received the title of Baroness Thatcher of Kesteven and later became a member of the highest order of knighthood in England: The Order of the Garter. Psychobiographical research is qualitative and follows a single, case study approach. Through using a purposive sampling strategy, Thatcher was selected as a research subject on the basis of interest value and uniqueness. Data were selected from primary and secondary sources, enhancing the validity of the study, and were analysed according to Alexander's nine identifiers of salience within the conceptual framework derived from Erikson's theory. When considering the findings of the research, it became evident that Margaret Thatcher's development coincides with those constructs proposed in Erikson's theory, and thus emphasised its value in understanding human development. The findings from this psychobiographical study contributed to the understanding of Thatcher's life and are likely to stimulate further research in psychology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Maximum firepower: Vale van der Merwe, an emergent ceramic artist at Starways Arts, Hogsback, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Steele, John
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: text , Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/979 , vital:30078
- Description: Vale van der Merwe has been working as a ceramic artist for the past five years, and in that time has developed a remarkably diverse repertoire of both thrown and handbuilt works. These include rapidly thrown utilityware as well as carefully conceived sculptural works that engage with ideas rather than primarily with function. She also makes full use of opportunities offered by high-temperature woodburn firings, and despite works collapsing while being made, breaking while being carried to the kiln and slumping during firing, she has used such occasions as opportunities for learning rather than despondency. Van der Merwe is also an actively hands-on ceramic artist who engages with all levels of tasks associated with studio ceramics in a village setting, so has found herself, for example, both creating a new chimney for the kiln, and simultaneously leading discussion around concepts for new collaborative exhibitions. There is a seriousness of intent combined with infectious confidence evident in both her daily presence and ceramics, and it is hoped that she will develop her repertoire and thinkings even further in forthcoming years.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Steele, John
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: text , Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/979 , vital:30078
- Description: Vale van der Merwe has been working as a ceramic artist for the past five years, and in that time has developed a remarkably diverse repertoire of both thrown and handbuilt works. These include rapidly thrown utilityware as well as carefully conceived sculptural works that engage with ideas rather than primarily with function. She also makes full use of opportunities offered by high-temperature woodburn firings, and despite works collapsing while being made, breaking while being carried to the kiln and slumping during firing, she has used such occasions as opportunities for learning rather than despondency. Van der Merwe is also an actively hands-on ceramic artist who engages with all levels of tasks associated with studio ceramics in a village setting, so has found herself, for example, both creating a new chimney for the kiln, and simultaneously leading discussion around concepts for new collaborative exhibitions. There is a seriousness of intent combined with infectious confidence evident in both her daily presence and ceramics, and it is hoped that she will develop her repertoire and thinkings even further in forthcoming years.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Media framing of recent LGBT rights debates: the contrasting cases of South Africa, Uganda and the USA
- Authors: Dugmore, Harry
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/143849 , vital:38288 , https://ischp.files.wordpress.com/2015/08/ischp_2015_abstract_booklet.pdf
- Description: This paper compares key moments in the debates about LGBT rights, and the media coverage related to these key moments, in South Africa, Uganda and the USA. No country permitted same-sex marriage by the turn of millennium in 2000. Today, 15 countries do, as do two-thirds of states in the USA. By contrast, in some African countries, legislative regimes and social attitudes are shifting retrogressively, with the introduction of punitive laws against both ‘homosexual acts’ and the ‘promotion’ of same-sex relationships. While the drivers of progressive shifts in liberal democracies - such as LGBT activism, the impact of AIDS, and changes in the stances of professional health organisations - have also been at least partially present in many African countries, it is puzzling why these factors have not prevented an increase in repression in many African countries. As this paper outlines, the new laws have had immediate and dire impacts on the health of LGBT communities in the affected countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Dugmore, Harry
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/143849 , vital:38288 , https://ischp.files.wordpress.com/2015/08/ischp_2015_abstract_booklet.pdf
- Description: This paper compares key moments in the debates about LGBT rights, and the media coverage related to these key moments, in South Africa, Uganda and the USA. No country permitted same-sex marriage by the turn of millennium in 2000. Today, 15 countries do, as do two-thirds of states in the USA. By contrast, in some African countries, legislative regimes and social attitudes are shifting retrogressively, with the introduction of punitive laws against both ‘homosexual acts’ and the ‘promotion’ of same-sex relationships. While the drivers of progressive shifts in liberal democracies - such as LGBT activism, the impact of AIDS, and changes in the stances of professional health organisations - have also been at least partially present in many African countries, it is puzzling why these factors have not prevented an increase in repression in many African countries. As this paper outlines, the new laws have had immediate and dire impacts on the health of LGBT communities in the affected countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Medical practitioners and conscientious objection to the provision of termination of pregnancy services:
- Chiwandire, Desire, Vincent, Louise
- Authors: Chiwandire, Desire , Vincent, Louise
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/143838 , vital:38287 , https://ischp.files.wordpress.com/2015/08/ischp_2015_abstract_booklet.pdf
- Description: The 1996 Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act decriminalized abortion in South Africa and the South African Medicines Control Council in 2000 approved the dispensing of emergency contraceptive methods by pharmacists to women without a doctor’s prescription. This legislation has been hailed as among the most progressive in the world with respect to women’s reproductive justice. However, the realization of these rights in practice has not always met expectations, in part due to medical practitioners’ ethical objections to termination of pregnancy and the provision of related services. The aim of this study was to interpret the varying ways in which medical practitioners frame termination of pregnancy services, their own professional identities and that of their patients/clients. A Sample of 58 doctors and 59 pharmacists were drawn from all nine provinces of South Africa. Data were collected using an anonymous confidential internet-based self-administered questionnaire. Participants were randomly recruited from online listings of South African doctors and pharmacists practicing in both private and public sectors. Data were analysed using theoretically derived qualitative content analysis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Chiwandire, Desire , Vincent, Louise
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/143838 , vital:38287 , https://ischp.files.wordpress.com/2015/08/ischp_2015_abstract_booklet.pdf
- Description: The 1996 Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act decriminalized abortion in South Africa and the South African Medicines Control Council in 2000 approved the dispensing of emergency contraceptive methods by pharmacists to women without a doctor’s prescription. This legislation has been hailed as among the most progressive in the world with respect to women’s reproductive justice. However, the realization of these rights in practice has not always met expectations, in part due to medical practitioners’ ethical objections to termination of pregnancy and the provision of related services. The aim of this study was to interpret the varying ways in which medical practitioners frame termination of pregnancy services, their own professional identities and that of their patients/clients. A Sample of 58 doctors and 59 pharmacists were drawn from all nine provinces of South Africa. Data were collected using an anonymous confidential internet-based self-administered questionnaire. Participants were randomly recruited from online listings of South African doctors and pharmacists practicing in both private and public sectors. Data were analysed using theoretically derived qualitative content analysis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Men Waiting To Be Served
- Men
- Authors: Men
- Date: 2015
- Type: Image
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/219598 , vital:48539 , KHP-170
- Description: Photograph of Men sitting outdoors waiting for food. , Use of this resource is governed by the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons "Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike" License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.0/)
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Men
- Date: 2015
- Type: Image
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/219598 , vital:48539 , KHP-170
- Description: Photograph of Men sitting outdoors waiting for food. , Use of this resource is governed by the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons "Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike" License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.0/)
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2015
Men's pathways to parenthood: Silences and heterosexual gender norms
- Morison, Tracy, Macleod, Catriona I
- Authors: Morison, Tracy , Macleod, Catriona I
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Book
- Identifier: vital:548 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018815 , http://www.hsrcpress.ac.za/product.php?productid=2332
- Description: How does the decision to become a parent unfold for heterosexual men? Is becoming a father a 'decision' at all or a series of events? These questions are the starting point for this critical book, in which the authors unravel the social and interpersonal processes – shaped by deeply entrenched socio-cultural norms – that come to bear on parenthood decision-making in the South African context. Drawing on the narratives of white, Afrikaans women and men, Men's Pathways to Parenthood uses an innovative discursive method to illuminate the roles masculinity, whiteness, class, and heteronormativity play in these accounts. Men's Pathways to Parenthood addresses an under-researched topic in gender studies – namely, men and reproductive decision-making – and will be an important resource for scholars in gender studies, sexualities, and reproductive health, as well as those interested in innovative approaches to discursive research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Morison, Tracy , Macleod, Catriona I
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Book
- Identifier: vital:548 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018815 , http://www.hsrcpress.ac.za/product.php?productid=2332
- Description: How does the decision to become a parent unfold for heterosexual men? Is becoming a father a 'decision' at all or a series of events? These questions are the starting point for this critical book, in which the authors unravel the social and interpersonal processes – shaped by deeply entrenched socio-cultural norms – that come to bear on parenthood decision-making in the South African context. Drawing on the narratives of white, Afrikaans women and men, Men's Pathways to Parenthood uses an innovative discursive method to illuminate the roles masculinity, whiteness, class, and heteronormativity play in these accounts. Men's Pathways to Parenthood addresses an under-researched topic in gender studies – namely, men and reproductive decision-making – and will be an important resource for scholars in gender studies, sexualities, and reproductive health, as well as those interested in innovative approaches to discursive research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Mercaptopyridine-substituted indium, zinc, and metal-free phthalocyanines: nonlinear optical studies in solution and on polymer matrices
- Bankole, Owolabi M, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Bankole, Owolabi M , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:7278 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020313
- Description: In this article, the nonlinear optical characterizations and optical limiting properties of metal-free (2), zinc (3), and indium (4) tetra 4-(2-mercaptopyridine) phthalocyanines are discussed. Nonlinear optical properties of the samples were evaluated using Z-scan at 532 nm and 10 ns pulse in CHCl3, and doped on poly(bisphenol A carbonate) (PBC) thin films. Thin films for 2, 3, and 4 are represented as 2-PBC, 3-PBC, and 4-PBC, respectively. We observed two-photon absorption (2PA) and strong reverse saturable absorption as the dominant mechanisms at nanosecond laser excitation in solution and thin films. By virtue of the magnitude of absorption coefficients and other nonlinear optical parameters estimated in this work, sample 4 was found to exhibit strongest nonlinear optical properties followed by 3, while 2 is the weakest nonlinear absorber of the studied samples. Large third-order susceptibility (1.46 × 10−9 esu and 7.74 × 10−10 esu) and hyperpolarizability (2.13 × 10−28 and 8.37 × 10−29 esu) were estimated for 4-PBC and 3-PBC, respectively. Our studies show that these molecules are suitable candidates for practical passive optical limiters. , Original publication is available at http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00958972.2015.1077237
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Bankole, Owolabi M , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:7278 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020313
- Description: In this article, the nonlinear optical characterizations and optical limiting properties of metal-free (2), zinc (3), and indium (4) tetra 4-(2-mercaptopyridine) phthalocyanines are discussed. Nonlinear optical properties of the samples were evaluated using Z-scan at 532 nm and 10 ns pulse in CHCl3, and doped on poly(bisphenol A carbonate) (PBC) thin films. Thin films for 2, 3, and 4 are represented as 2-PBC, 3-PBC, and 4-PBC, respectively. We observed two-photon absorption (2PA) and strong reverse saturable absorption as the dominant mechanisms at nanosecond laser excitation in solution and thin films. By virtue of the magnitude of absorption coefficients and other nonlinear optical parameters estimated in this work, sample 4 was found to exhibit strongest nonlinear optical properties followed by 3, while 2 is the weakest nonlinear absorber of the studied samples. Large third-order susceptibility (1.46 × 10−9 esu and 7.74 × 10−10 esu) and hyperpolarizability (2.13 × 10−28 and 8.37 × 10−29 esu) were estimated for 4-PBC and 3-PBC, respectively. Our studies show that these molecules are suitable candidates for practical passive optical limiters. , Original publication is available at http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00958972.2015.1077237
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2015
Meso-and axially-modified IrIIItriarylcorroles with tunable electrocatalytic properties
- Zhang, Xifeng, Wang, Yu, Zhu, Weihua, Mack, John, Soy, Rodah C, Nyokong, Tebello, Liang, Xu
- Authors: Zhang, Xifeng , Wang, Yu , Zhu, Weihua , Mack, John , Soy, Rodah C , Nyokong, Tebello , Liang, Xu
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/190851 , vital:45034 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molstruc.2015.02.040"
- Description: The synthesis of three A2B type Ir(III)triarylcorroles with meso-aryl substituents that provide electron donating (push) and withdrawing (pull) properties and three A3 type IrIIItriphenylcorroles with differing pyridine axial ligands is reported, along with their structural characterization. An analysis of the structure-property relationships in the optical and redox properties has been carried out by comparing their optical spectroscopy and electrochemistry to trends predicted in DFT and TD-DFT calculations. The results demonstrate that A2B type IrIIItriarylcorroles are highly efficient electrocatalyzed oxygen reduction reactions (ORRs) and that their reactivity can be modulated by modulating the electronic structure by changing the nature of the meso-substituent at the B-positions, and even axial pyridine ligands.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Zhang, Xifeng , Wang, Yu , Zhu, Weihua , Mack, John , Soy, Rodah C , Nyokong, Tebello , Liang, Xu
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/190851 , vital:45034 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molstruc.2015.02.040"
- Description: The synthesis of three A2B type Ir(III)triarylcorroles with meso-aryl substituents that provide electron donating (push) and withdrawing (pull) properties and three A3 type IrIIItriphenylcorroles with differing pyridine axial ligands is reported, along with their structural characterization. An analysis of the structure-property relationships in the optical and redox properties has been carried out by comparing their optical spectroscopy and electrochemistry to trends predicted in DFT and TD-DFT calculations. The results demonstrate that A2B type IrIIItriarylcorroles are highly efficient electrocatalyzed oxygen reduction reactions (ORRs) and that their reactivity can be modulated by modulating the electronic structure by changing the nature of the meso-substituent at the B-positions, and even axial pyridine ligands.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Metallophthalocyanine-gold nanoparticle conjugates for photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy
- Mthethwa, Thandekile Phakamisiwe
- Authors: Mthethwa, Thandekile Phakamisiwe
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Nanochemistry , Phthalocyanines , Photochemistry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4543 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017923
- Description: This thesis presents the synthesis of neutral and cationic metallophthalocyanines and their gold nanoparticles conjugates. The spectroscopic characterization of these compounds is presented herein. The studies presented in this work shows that the conjugation of gold nanoparticles influenced both photophysical and photochemical properties. Gold nanoparticles were found to enhance the singlet oxygen quantum yield while lowering the fluorescence quantum yields. This work also looks at the effect of anisotropic gold nanoparticles such as nanorods and bipyramids on the photophysical behaviour of the metallophthalocyanines. The effect of the size of the gold nanorods was investigated herein. The results show that photophysical and photochemical properties can be influenced by both size and shape of the nanoparticles. Physical characterization about the loading of nanoparticles was also looked into. Parameters such as the surface area, the number of surface atoms, the number of atoms as well as the number of nanoparticles loaded on the surface of the phthalocyanines were studied. The self-assembled monolayers formed by phthalocyanines on gold surfaces were studied using the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The gold nanoparticles synthesized herein include both organic and water soluble, different capping agents (citrate, tetraammonium bromide (TAOBr) and cetrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). The concentration of the gold nanoparticles was measured on the inductively coupled plasma (ICP) and their size and shape were obtained from the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images. A cationic aluminium phthalocyanine and its conjugates were used for photoinactivation of bacteria and fungi. The results show significant reduction and higher activity in the presence of gold nanoparticles, especially nanorods. A small chapter in this work presents an attempted work on the binding of metallothionein protein with protophorphyrin (IX). The pH and concentration dependent binding studies were investigated
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Mthethwa, Thandekile Phakamisiwe
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Nanochemistry , Phthalocyanines , Photochemistry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4543 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017923
- Description: This thesis presents the synthesis of neutral and cationic metallophthalocyanines and their gold nanoparticles conjugates. The spectroscopic characterization of these compounds is presented herein. The studies presented in this work shows that the conjugation of gold nanoparticles influenced both photophysical and photochemical properties. Gold nanoparticles were found to enhance the singlet oxygen quantum yield while lowering the fluorescence quantum yields. This work also looks at the effect of anisotropic gold nanoparticles such as nanorods and bipyramids on the photophysical behaviour of the metallophthalocyanines. The effect of the size of the gold nanorods was investigated herein. The results show that photophysical and photochemical properties can be influenced by both size and shape of the nanoparticles. Physical characterization about the loading of nanoparticles was also looked into. Parameters such as the surface area, the number of surface atoms, the number of atoms as well as the number of nanoparticles loaded on the surface of the phthalocyanines were studied. The self-assembled monolayers formed by phthalocyanines on gold surfaces were studied using the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The gold nanoparticles synthesized herein include both organic and water soluble, different capping agents (citrate, tetraammonium bromide (TAOBr) and cetrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). The concentration of the gold nanoparticles was measured on the inductively coupled plasma (ICP) and their size and shape were obtained from the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images. A cationic aluminium phthalocyanine and its conjugates were used for photoinactivation of bacteria and fungi. The results show significant reduction and higher activity in the presence of gold nanoparticles, especially nanorods. A small chapter in this work presents an attempted work on the binding of metallothionein protein with protophorphyrin (IX). The pH and concentration dependent binding studies were investigated
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Methods to improve the effective implementation of organisational codes of conduct
- Robinson, Bryan Michael Kenneth
- Authors: Robinson, Bryan Michael Kenneth
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Business ethics , Organizational behavior -- Moral and ethical aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6541 , vital:21105
- Description: This research explores methods to improve code of conduct effectiveness. Misconduct is a common phenomenon in the business environment, even in the face of increased regulation, and the adoption of codes of conduct by organisations. This impacts negatively on organisations’ reputations, results in financial loss, and has a negative impact on the sustainability of businesses. While researchers suggest that codes of conduct should reduce misconduct and improve the ethical culture of organisations, mixed research results suggest codes of conduct are not always effective. While research into code of conduct effectiveness proliferates, seldom does such research take a holistic approach to understanding effectiveness of codes of conduct. Models proposed to better research code of conduct effectiveness, such as Kaptein and Schwartz’ (2008) integrated research model, do not present guidelines for better developing and implementing codes of conduct. Therefore the primary research objective was to develop a benchmarking framework which could provide insight into factors that could influence code of conduct effectiveness, and provide guidelines on how these factors should be influenced and accounted for to improve code of conduct effectiveness. Content of codes of conduct can play an important part in code of conduct effectiveness, yet they vary enormously in terms of provisions, language, tone, style, design. Some are directional or rules based, others aspirational, or values based. Bettcher, Deshpandé, Margolis and Paine (2005) developed the Global Business Standards Codex that depicted the most commonly found provisions in organisations they surveyed. A secondary research objective was therefore to apply this codex to the evaluation of participating organisations codes of conduct, and in so doing, evaluate the suitability of the codex as a benchmarking framework for the content of the code of conduct. Adopting a grounded theory methodological approach and code of conduct content analysis, the researcher investigated nine of South Africa’s largest multinational organisations in order to understand the factors influencing their code of conduct effectiveness better. The research makes a significant contribution to the understanding of codes of conduct, their effectiveness, and provides practical guidelines on improving their effectiveness. This is achieved by 1) presenting nine formulae for an effective code of conduct; 2) detailing a multi-dimensional model that can facilitate the effectiveness of codes of conduct; and 3) improving the codex developed by Bettcher et al. (2005) on the content of codes of conduct with the proposed code of conduct architecture criterion.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Robinson, Bryan Michael Kenneth
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Business ethics , Organizational behavior -- Moral and ethical aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6541 , vital:21105
- Description: This research explores methods to improve code of conduct effectiveness. Misconduct is a common phenomenon in the business environment, even in the face of increased regulation, and the adoption of codes of conduct by organisations. This impacts negatively on organisations’ reputations, results in financial loss, and has a negative impact on the sustainability of businesses. While researchers suggest that codes of conduct should reduce misconduct and improve the ethical culture of organisations, mixed research results suggest codes of conduct are not always effective. While research into code of conduct effectiveness proliferates, seldom does such research take a holistic approach to understanding effectiveness of codes of conduct. Models proposed to better research code of conduct effectiveness, such as Kaptein and Schwartz’ (2008) integrated research model, do not present guidelines for better developing and implementing codes of conduct. Therefore the primary research objective was to develop a benchmarking framework which could provide insight into factors that could influence code of conduct effectiveness, and provide guidelines on how these factors should be influenced and accounted for to improve code of conduct effectiveness. Content of codes of conduct can play an important part in code of conduct effectiveness, yet they vary enormously in terms of provisions, language, tone, style, design. Some are directional or rules based, others aspirational, or values based. Bettcher, Deshpandé, Margolis and Paine (2005) developed the Global Business Standards Codex that depicted the most commonly found provisions in organisations they surveyed. A secondary research objective was therefore to apply this codex to the evaluation of participating organisations codes of conduct, and in so doing, evaluate the suitability of the codex as a benchmarking framework for the content of the code of conduct. Adopting a grounded theory methodological approach and code of conduct content analysis, the researcher investigated nine of South Africa’s largest multinational organisations in order to understand the factors influencing their code of conduct effectiveness better. The research makes a significant contribution to the understanding of codes of conduct, their effectiveness, and provides practical guidelines on improving their effectiveness. This is achieved by 1) presenting nine formulae for an effective code of conduct; 2) detailing a multi-dimensional model that can facilitate the effectiveness of codes of conduct; and 3) improving the codex developed by Bettcher et al. (2005) on the content of codes of conduct with the proposed code of conduct architecture criterion.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Microbial water quality of treated water and raw water sources in the Harare area, Zimbabwe
- Chirenda, Tatenda G, Srinivas, Sunitha C, Tandlich, Roman
- Authors: Chirenda, Tatenda G , Srinivas, Sunitha C , Tandlich, Roman
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/76206 , vital:30520 , http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/wsa.v41i5.12
- Description: Microbial water quality is an essential aspect in the provision of potable water for domestic use. The provision of adequate amounts of safe water for domestic purposes has become difficult for most municipalities mandated to do so in Zimbabwe. Morton-Jaffray Treatment Plant supplies potable water to Harare City and areas surrounding Harare. This study investigated microbial water quality and the impact of microbial water quality related disasters in the area supplied by the Morton Jaffray Treatment Plant. Questionnaires were distributed to household owners in Harare who receive their water from the Municipality and those who use alternate water supplies. Candidates were randomly selected from their workplace. The raw water quality of Manyame River and its tributaries was assessed. Treated water in households was assessed for microbial quality using hydrogen sulphide test and heterotrophic bacteria plate count. Raw water sources were found to be contaminated by faecal matter. Household water sources tested negative for faecal contamination but positive for heterotrophic bacteria. CFU quantities ranged from 1 to 452 CFU/m. for all samples. The WHO guidelines for domestic water sources state that water used for domestic purposes should not be contain than 100 CFU/m.. Public perceptions of water quality ranged from eunsafef to ehighly contaminatedf. A decrease in the level of aesthetic appeal resulted in residents resorting to alternative sources such as wells and rivers for their domestic water. The current state of treated water was suitable for domestic use. Pathogen monitoring of domestic water is recommended using the hydrogen sulphide test and R2A agar test.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Chirenda, Tatenda G , Srinivas, Sunitha C , Tandlich, Roman
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/76206 , vital:30520 , http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/wsa.v41i5.12
- Description: Microbial water quality is an essential aspect in the provision of potable water for domestic use. The provision of adequate amounts of safe water for domestic purposes has become difficult for most municipalities mandated to do so in Zimbabwe. Morton-Jaffray Treatment Plant supplies potable water to Harare City and areas surrounding Harare. This study investigated microbial water quality and the impact of microbial water quality related disasters in the area supplied by the Morton Jaffray Treatment Plant. Questionnaires were distributed to household owners in Harare who receive their water from the Municipality and those who use alternate water supplies. Candidates were randomly selected from their workplace. The raw water quality of Manyame River and its tributaries was assessed. Treated water in households was assessed for microbial quality using hydrogen sulphide test and heterotrophic bacteria plate count. Raw water sources were found to be contaminated by faecal matter. Household water sources tested negative for faecal contamination but positive for heterotrophic bacteria. CFU quantities ranged from 1 to 452 CFU/m. for all samples. The WHO guidelines for domestic water sources state that water used for domestic purposes should not be contain than 100 CFU/m.. Public perceptions of water quality ranged from eunsafef to ehighly contaminatedf. A decrease in the level of aesthetic appeal resulted in residents resorting to alternative sources such as wells and rivers for their domestic water. The current state of treated water was suitable for domestic use. Pathogen monitoring of domestic water is recommended using the hydrogen sulphide test and R2A agar test.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Microbiological analyses of beef slaughtering process and meat safety knowledge of handlers at selected high and low thoughput abattoirs
- Authors: Nyamakwere, Faith
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Slaughtering and slaughter-houses -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Meat industry and trade -- Quality control Beef -- Quality -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2238 , vital:27712
- Description: The objective of the study was to evaluate meat hygiene practices among meat handlers and microbiological analysis of beef carcasses, slaughtermen hands, equipment and water from low throughput (LTA) and high throughput (HTA) abattoirs in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. In stage one of the study, the level of knowledge, practices and attitudes towards meat safety and personal hygiene of slaughtermen were assessed. Forty workers directly involve in beef cattle slaughtering process were surveyed. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, it contained questions on some of the most important meat safety cues such as knowledge, attitudes, personal hygiene and handling practices. Cross tabulation and Chi-square Test of Association were performed to examine the relationships between the demographic information and the knowledge regarding meat safety using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22. Overall, a significant adherence to basic hygiene practices and a satisfactory level of knowledge were observed. Workers from a HTA yielded comparatively better statistically significant scores. Moreover, knowledge and practices of respondents were significantly associated (P<0.05) due to educational level and professional training. The second stage of the study involved evaluating the level to which cattle carcass, equipment, slaughtermen hands and water were contaminated with Enterobacteriaceae, Salmonella, Escherichia coli and aerobic colony counts (ACC) at different stages during the slaughter process (skinning, evisceration, carcass slitting, inspection, washing and packing). Cattle carcasses were sampled at four sites (rump, neck, flank and brisket) from a LTA (n= 240) and HTA (n= 384) abattoirs. Using conventional biochemical tests, HTA yielded significantly (P<0.05) higher ACC (5.2 log CFU/cm2), E. coli (2.6 log CFU/cm2) and Enterobacteriaceae (2.9 log CFU/cm2) carcass mean scores than LTA after skinning and evisceration. Specific abattoir hygiene differences were noted from washed and chilled carcasses. Salmonella was not detected across all sampled slaughter process stages. In addition, the equipment had bacterial load ranging from 10 to 4 CFU/cm2 for LTA, whereas in HTA this was found to be 7 to 3 CFU/cm2. The bacterial counts for slaughtermen hands were estimated to be 15 to 8 CFU/cm2 in HTA and 10 to 5 CFU/cm2 in LTA. Overall, slaughtermen hands and equipment in the dirty area (skinning and evisceration) yielded more bacterial counts compared to those in the clean area (slitting, inspection, washing and packing) from both abattoirs. For all the sampled carcasses, equipment and slaughtermen hands, HTA yielded comparatively higher (P<0.05) bacterial counts than the LTA. Although the results showed a significant adherence to basic hygiene practices, some aspects such as routine medical examination, health certificates and professional training of slaughtermen still need to be improved. Therefore, these findings show that slaughtermen, equipment and water can be sources of contamination during the slaughter process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Nyamakwere, Faith
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Slaughtering and slaughter-houses -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Meat industry and trade -- Quality control Beef -- Quality -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2238 , vital:27712
- Description: The objective of the study was to evaluate meat hygiene practices among meat handlers and microbiological analysis of beef carcasses, slaughtermen hands, equipment and water from low throughput (LTA) and high throughput (HTA) abattoirs in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. In stage one of the study, the level of knowledge, practices and attitudes towards meat safety and personal hygiene of slaughtermen were assessed. Forty workers directly involve in beef cattle slaughtering process were surveyed. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, it contained questions on some of the most important meat safety cues such as knowledge, attitudes, personal hygiene and handling practices. Cross tabulation and Chi-square Test of Association were performed to examine the relationships between the demographic information and the knowledge regarding meat safety using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22. Overall, a significant adherence to basic hygiene practices and a satisfactory level of knowledge were observed. Workers from a HTA yielded comparatively better statistically significant scores. Moreover, knowledge and practices of respondents were significantly associated (P<0.05) due to educational level and professional training. The second stage of the study involved evaluating the level to which cattle carcass, equipment, slaughtermen hands and water were contaminated with Enterobacteriaceae, Salmonella, Escherichia coli and aerobic colony counts (ACC) at different stages during the slaughter process (skinning, evisceration, carcass slitting, inspection, washing and packing). Cattle carcasses were sampled at four sites (rump, neck, flank and brisket) from a LTA (n= 240) and HTA (n= 384) abattoirs. Using conventional biochemical tests, HTA yielded significantly (P<0.05) higher ACC (5.2 log CFU/cm2), E. coli (2.6 log CFU/cm2) and Enterobacteriaceae (2.9 log CFU/cm2) carcass mean scores than LTA after skinning and evisceration. Specific abattoir hygiene differences were noted from washed and chilled carcasses. Salmonella was not detected across all sampled slaughter process stages. In addition, the equipment had bacterial load ranging from 10 to 4 CFU/cm2 for LTA, whereas in HTA this was found to be 7 to 3 CFU/cm2. The bacterial counts for slaughtermen hands were estimated to be 15 to 8 CFU/cm2 in HTA and 10 to 5 CFU/cm2 in LTA. Overall, slaughtermen hands and equipment in the dirty area (skinning and evisceration) yielded more bacterial counts compared to those in the clean area (slitting, inspection, washing and packing) from both abattoirs. For all the sampled carcasses, equipment and slaughtermen hands, HTA yielded comparatively higher (P<0.05) bacterial counts than the LTA. Although the results showed a significant adherence to basic hygiene practices, some aspects such as routine medical examination, health certificates and professional training of slaughtermen still need to be improved. Therefore, these findings show that slaughtermen, equipment and water can be sources of contamination during the slaughter process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Midwives' experiences of high stress levels due to emergency childbirths in Namibia Regional Hospital
- Authors: Ndikwetepo, Monika Ndaudika
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Midwifery -- Namibia , Medical personnel -- Job stress -- Namibia , Childbirth -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10073 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021162
- Description: Many midwives throughout the world experienced high stress levels when they deal with emergency childbirths. Midwifery professionals experience certain unique stressors, such as midwives being responsible for the care of women when they are giving birth. Complications of childbirth may occur during labour leading to the life of the baby and the mother being threatened. Situations such as this leave midwives experiencing high levels of stress for which they often do not have effective coping mechanisms. When the stress is not managed, it may lead to burnout. When burnout occurs the midwives present with physical and psychological symptoms of stress, grief for the loss and lack of motivation, which results in staff turnover and a fear of working in a maternity ward. Consequently, patient care may be compromised as some midwives became apathetic and develop unacceptable attitudes toward their patients. Such behavior led to poor work performances, maternity services that are not woman-friendly and women seeing the maternity ward as a place where they are treated in rude and unfriendly manner which increased the chances of adverse childbirth outcomes. The aim of the study was to explore and describe the experiences of midwives who have to cope with stress associated with emergency childbirths. This information was used to develop the guidelines to help midwives to cope with the high stress associated with emergency childbirths. The researcher used a phenomenological, qualitative approach. The study was explorative, as little was known on this topic in the Namibian context and it was also descriptive and contextual. Purposive and convenient sampling was used to select the research sample. The research population was all the midwives working in the maternity ward of a Namibian regional hospital, who met the inclusion criteria. Data gathering was done using semi-structured interviews. Once data saturation occurred, interviewing stopped. The interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim. Tesch’s eight steps of data analysis were followed to create meaning from the data collected. An independent coder assisted with the coding process to ensure the trustworthiness of the findings. Literature control was done after data collection to support and strengthen the study’s findings. Trustworthiness, as suggested by using Lincoln & Guba’s model of trustworthiness, included truth-value/credibility, applicability/transferability, consistency/dependability and neutrality/conformability was implemented. Ethical principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy and justice were ensured by obtaining permission to conduct the research from relevant authorities and from University structures, obtaining consent from the participants before the interviews, voluntary participation and right to withdraw from the study, privacy, confidentiality and dissemination of the results. Three main themes and sub-themes were identified namely: Midwives experienced significant stressors associated with emergency childbirth situations. Midwives experienced mixed emotions about dealing with emergency childbirth situations Midwives shared their views regarding their support needs associated with emergency childbirth situations. Recommendations for nursing education, clinical midwifery and for further research were made. Four guidelines were developed based on the study findings as well as literature related to these findings, to help the midwives to cope with high stress levels associated with emergency childbirths.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Ndikwetepo, Monika Ndaudika
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Midwifery -- Namibia , Medical personnel -- Job stress -- Namibia , Childbirth -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10073 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021162
- Description: Many midwives throughout the world experienced high stress levels when they deal with emergency childbirths. Midwifery professionals experience certain unique stressors, such as midwives being responsible for the care of women when they are giving birth. Complications of childbirth may occur during labour leading to the life of the baby and the mother being threatened. Situations such as this leave midwives experiencing high levels of stress for which they often do not have effective coping mechanisms. When the stress is not managed, it may lead to burnout. When burnout occurs the midwives present with physical and psychological symptoms of stress, grief for the loss and lack of motivation, which results in staff turnover and a fear of working in a maternity ward. Consequently, patient care may be compromised as some midwives became apathetic and develop unacceptable attitudes toward their patients. Such behavior led to poor work performances, maternity services that are not woman-friendly and women seeing the maternity ward as a place where they are treated in rude and unfriendly manner which increased the chances of adverse childbirth outcomes. The aim of the study was to explore and describe the experiences of midwives who have to cope with stress associated with emergency childbirths. This information was used to develop the guidelines to help midwives to cope with the high stress associated with emergency childbirths. The researcher used a phenomenological, qualitative approach. The study was explorative, as little was known on this topic in the Namibian context and it was also descriptive and contextual. Purposive and convenient sampling was used to select the research sample. The research population was all the midwives working in the maternity ward of a Namibian regional hospital, who met the inclusion criteria. Data gathering was done using semi-structured interviews. Once data saturation occurred, interviewing stopped. The interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim. Tesch’s eight steps of data analysis were followed to create meaning from the data collected. An independent coder assisted with the coding process to ensure the trustworthiness of the findings. Literature control was done after data collection to support and strengthen the study’s findings. Trustworthiness, as suggested by using Lincoln & Guba’s model of trustworthiness, included truth-value/credibility, applicability/transferability, consistency/dependability and neutrality/conformability was implemented. Ethical principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy and justice were ensured by obtaining permission to conduct the research from relevant authorities and from University structures, obtaining consent from the participants before the interviews, voluntary participation and right to withdraw from the study, privacy, confidentiality and dissemination of the results. Three main themes and sub-themes were identified namely: Midwives experienced significant stressors associated with emergency childbirth situations. Midwives experienced mixed emotions about dealing with emergency childbirth situations Midwives shared their views regarding their support needs associated with emergency childbirth situations. Recommendations for nursing education, clinical midwifery and for further research were made. Four guidelines were developed based on the study findings as well as literature related to these findings, to help the midwives to cope with high stress levels associated with emergency childbirths.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Midwives' experiences regarding the utilization of partographs in a Namibian Regional Hospital
- Authors: Fernandes, Diina
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Midwifery -- Namibia , Labor (Obstetrics) -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10071 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021158
- Description: Labour has been characterized as the most dangerous journey a woman undertakes. The reason being, that although it is a natural process, many labouring women suffer complications during labour and childbirth including prolonged or obstructed labour. These complications can result in maternal and infant morbidity and mortality. The partograph is a monitoring tool that can provide a continuous pictorial overview and is essential to monitor and manage labour. It is recommended by the WHO for use universally by midwives while monitoring labour. However partographs are poorly utilized and most parameters on the partograph are not monitored and findings after reviewing a labouring woman are not documented on the partograph. It is unclear how midwives working in Namibian Health services experience and utilize the partograph during the monitoring of a woman in labour. These may be the factors that hinder the effective utilization of the partograph. The objective of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of midwives regarding the utilization of the partograph for monitoring a labouring woman in a Namibian regional hospital in order to develop guidelines based on the findings to improve the use of the partograph by midwives in order to improve the management of labour. The research design was qualitative, descriptive, explorative and contextual in nature. The research population consisted of midwives working in a regional hospital in Namibia. A purposive and convenient sampling method was used to select participants. Specific inclusion criteria were met and consent was obtained from the participants and from the Regional Health Directorate Management of the hospital where the research was conducted. Interviews were conducted by an independent interviewer within the Department of Health to ensure an unbiased viewpoint. Data were collected by means of semi-structured in depth interviews with a guide, using an audio tape recorder. Field notes were used to record non- verbal communication. As soon as data were saturated, the interviews were stopped. They were then transcribed, verbatim and analysed using the Tesch’s approach as described in (Creswell, 2009:186). The service of an independent coder was utilized to ensure trustworthiness. Trustworthiness was further ensured by using the strategies suggested by Lincoln and Guba’s model, namely credibility, transferability, dependability and confirmability. Ethical considerations were honoured throughout by adhering to ethical principles during the study. These included ensuring that the participants` rights were respected, they were not harmed and fairness were ensured. On completion of the data analysis a literature control was conducted and existing literature was compared to the findings in order to identify similarities and differences and to verify whether the literature supported the findings. Four main themes that emerged during data analysis are: Theme 1.Midwives found it a positive experience to use the partograph when caring for a woman in labour. Theme 2. When a midwife experienced problems in using the partograph, it may lead to detrimental outcomes. Theme 3. Utilizing the partograph evoked differing emotions in midwives. Theme 4. Midwives` knowledge and skills in the utilization of the partograph should be updated regularly. By describing the lived experienced of midwives in the maternity ward on the use of the partograph, the midwives had a positive attitude to using the partograph, but they also found it difficult to utilize the instrument as was directed by the (WHO) due to challenges experienced such as: unrealistic staff/patient ratio, shortage of staff, time consuming, insufficient knowledge and skills among midwives and lack of appropriate equipment. There is a specific need to prevent further negative emotions by addressing the challenges experienced. Based on the findings, guidelines for partograph utilization which aimed at improving the midwifery care were developed. Recommendations were made regarding midwifery education, clinical midwifery care and midwifery research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Fernandes, Diina
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Midwifery -- Namibia , Labor (Obstetrics) -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10071 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021158
- Description: Labour has been characterized as the most dangerous journey a woman undertakes. The reason being, that although it is a natural process, many labouring women suffer complications during labour and childbirth including prolonged or obstructed labour. These complications can result in maternal and infant morbidity and mortality. The partograph is a monitoring tool that can provide a continuous pictorial overview and is essential to monitor and manage labour. It is recommended by the WHO for use universally by midwives while monitoring labour. However partographs are poorly utilized and most parameters on the partograph are not monitored and findings after reviewing a labouring woman are not documented on the partograph. It is unclear how midwives working in Namibian Health services experience and utilize the partograph during the monitoring of a woman in labour. These may be the factors that hinder the effective utilization of the partograph. The objective of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of midwives regarding the utilization of the partograph for monitoring a labouring woman in a Namibian regional hospital in order to develop guidelines based on the findings to improve the use of the partograph by midwives in order to improve the management of labour. The research design was qualitative, descriptive, explorative and contextual in nature. The research population consisted of midwives working in a regional hospital in Namibia. A purposive and convenient sampling method was used to select participants. Specific inclusion criteria were met and consent was obtained from the participants and from the Regional Health Directorate Management of the hospital where the research was conducted. Interviews were conducted by an independent interviewer within the Department of Health to ensure an unbiased viewpoint. Data were collected by means of semi-structured in depth interviews with a guide, using an audio tape recorder. Field notes were used to record non- verbal communication. As soon as data were saturated, the interviews were stopped. They were then transcribed, verbatim and analysed using the Tesch’s approach as described in (Creswell, 2009:186). The service of an independent coder was utilized to ensure trustworthiness. Trustworthiness was further ensured by using the strategies suggested by Lincoln and Guba’s model, namely credibility, transferability, dependability and confirmability. Ethical considerations were honoured throughout by adhering to ethical principles during the study. These included ensuring that the participants` rights were respected, they were not harmed and fairness were ensured. On completion of the data analysis a literature control was conducted and existing literature was compared to the findings in order to identify similarities and differences and to verify whether the literature supported the findings. Four main themes that emerged during data analysis are: Theme 1.Midwives found it a positive experience to use the partograph when caring for a woman in labour. Theme 2. When a midwife experienced problems in using the partograph, it may lead to detrimental outcomes. Theme 3. Utilizing the partograph evoked differing emotions in midwives. Theme 4. Midwives` knowledge and skills in the utilization of the partograph should be updated regularly. By describing the lived experienced of midwives in the maternity ward on the use of the partograph, the midwives had a positive attitude to using the partograph, but they also found it difficult to utilize the instrument as was directed by the (WHO) due to challenges experienced such as: unrealistic staff/patient ratio, shortage of staff, time consuming, insufficient knowledge and skills among midwives and lack of appropriate equipment. There is a specific need to prevent further negative emotions by addressing the challenges experienced. Based on the findings, guidelines for partograph utilization which aimed at improving the midwifery care were developed. Recommendations were made regarding midwifery education, clinical midwifery care and midwifery research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Minding your own game : self-regulation and psychological momentum among golfers
- Authors: Kingma, Graham
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Golf -- Strategic aspects , Golf -- Psychological aspects , Athletes , Self-control , Golfers -- Conduct of life
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3260 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017883
- Description: Psychological momentum (PM) is often regarded as an important phenomenon that influences athlete performance. Nevertheless, conceptualisations of PM are criticised for being speculative, vague and impractical for scientific inquiry. In contrast, self-regulation is a long-standing, well researched concept used to explain performance outcomes, yet not clearly integrated in current PM conceptualisations. Hence, this thesis explores self-regulation relative to PM. Golf was considered to be an appropriate context for the empirical inquiries on the basis that it serves as a metaphor for managing life’s challenges. Three studies were conducted. The first study entailed a systematic conceptual analysis of PM based on previous conceptualisations and studies in relevant scientific literature. Self-regulatory processes were identified among the key psychological mechanisms and moderators related to PM. The second study aimed to identify key self-regulation strategies in PM experiences among 16 golfers. A mixed method approach including novel “walk-along” and “think aloud” data collection techniques was used. An inductive thematic analysis yielded a comprehensive typology golfing strategies. Nevertheless, the study did not find consistent strategy patterns in positive or negative PM phases. The third study explored the self-regulation of identity (ego-regulation) in relation to PM phases. A staggered multiple-baseline single-case research methodology was used with five golfers (three professionals and two amateurs). Ego-regulation was manipulated through a mindfulness-based schema mode program tailored to golf (Mindfulness for Golf; MFG). Pre-, mid- and post-intervention data showed positive changes among the participants on two dimensions of PM as well as performance outcomes. Overall the results suggest that golfers use idiosyncratic self-regulation processes to facilitate performance, but these are not directly linked to PM phases. Nonetheless, there are promising indications that enhancing ego-regulation through the MFG program facilitates positive momentum among golfers. Based on the results of the studies in this thesis, and for the sake of scientific parsimony and pragmatism, it is recommended that self-regulation models incorporating motivation are used to explain momentum in athletic activity. In this view, PM has the function of describing, not influencing, goal-driven performance
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Kingma, Graham
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Golf -- Strategic aspects , Golf -- Psychological aspects , Athletes , Self-control , Golfers -- Conduct of life
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3260 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017883
- Description: Psychological momentum (PM) is often regarded as an important phenomenon that influences athlete performance. Nevertheless, conceptualisations of PM are criticised for being speculative, vague and impractical for scientific inquiry. In contrast, self-regulation is a long-standing, well researched concept used to explain performance outcomes, yet not clearly integrated in current PM conceptualisations. Hence, this thesis explores self-regulation relative to PM. Golf was considered to be an appropriate context for the empirical inquiries on the basis that it serves as a metaphor for managing life’s challenges. Three studies were conducted. The first study entailed a systematic conceptual analysis of PM based on previous conceptualisations and studies in relevant scientific literature. Self-regulatory processes were identified among the key psychological mechanisms and moderators related to PM. The second study aimed to identify key self-regulation strategies in PM experiences among 16 golfers. A mixed method approach including novel “walk-along” and “think aloud” data collection techniques was used. An inductive thematic analysis yielded a comprehensive typology golfing strategies. Nevertheless, the study did not find consistent strategy patterns in positive or negative PM phases. The third study explored the self-regulation of identity (ego-regulation) in relation to PM phases. A staggered multiple-baseline single-case research methodology was used with five golfers (three professionals and two amateurs). Ego-regulation was manipulated through a mindfulness-based schema mode program tailored to golf (Mindfulness for Golf; MFG). Pre-, mid- and post-intervention data showed positive changes among the participants on two dimensions of PM as well as performance outcomes. Overall the results suggest that golfers use idiosyncratic self-regulation processes to facilitate performance, but these are not directly linked to PM phases. Nonetheless, there are promising indications that enhancing ego-regulation through the MFG program facilitates positive momentum among golfers. Based on the results of the studies in this thesis, and for the sake of scientific parsimony and pragmatism, it is recommended that self-regulation models incorporating motivation are used to explain momentum in athletic activity. In this view, PM has the function of describing, not influencing, goal-driven performance
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015