Category: Health & Medicine

The healthcare facility for this analysis belongs to the category of mental health and addiction, it is a treatment center called ConnexOntario. ConnexOntario is a renowned center ruled by a diverse, community-based board of medical professionals (Szamuhel, 2023). The staff includes representatives from addiction and mental health organizations and qualified doctors from related organizations from across the province (About Us, 2023). The specifics of this center is that delivers free and confidential information about health services to patients who suffer from alcohol or drugs addiction, mental illness, or gambling.

A mission statement concisely explains the organizations reason for existence. It aims to describe the purpose of the organization and its general intentions (Difference Between Mission, Vision, and Values Statements, 2023). The mission of ConnexOntario is to bridge the gap between the available services and the people who need them, which is located on the front page of their website (Difference Between Mission, Vision, and Values Statements, 2023). The organization, in this way, states that it tries to help all people from Ontario in case of mental issues and addictions on time.

A mini-SWOT analysis of this organization includes strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Strengths are reputation, free-of-charge consultations and services, and special expertise in mental health (Turner et al., 2022). Weaknesses are limited services line, for instance, provision of service only for addicted or mentally ill, and marketing deficiencies. Opportunities are a new technology in treating patients and new markets like expanding on other provinces. Threats are increased competition and insurance plan differences between provinces in case of expansion. Two marketing objectives are increased traffic of satisfied patients and the creation of the MeTime App. The second involves the creation of the specific app, which simplifies the connection procedure for prospective patients with medical providers due to specific user experience.

References

About us. (2023). Connex Ontario. Web.

Szamuhel, J. (2023). Connecting Ontarios health information: ConnexOntario. Network.cmha.ca. Web.

Turner, N., Cook, S., & Van Der Maas, M. (2022). The impact of COVID-19 on gambling-related crisis calls in Ontario, Canada: An interrupted time series analysis. Journal of Gambling Issues Open Access Original Research.

What is the difference between mission, vision and values statements? (2023). SHRM. Web.

The two competencies that will benefit me as an APN in the future include basic computer and clinical information management. The first competency is the foundation of informatics literacy and knowledge. Nurses and nurse managers must acquire essential computer usage skills before other competencies (Knox, 2019). These include the utilization of word processors, presentations software, and spreadsheets, netiquette and internet browsing, computer devices handling, and file management (Knox, 2019). The second competency aids in protecting the patients data through a thorough understanding of health information systems (HIS) and the protocols of gathering, storing, and retrieving data. Therefore, these competencies are critical in the nursing career, especially for management purposes.

Through this course, I have improved my clinical data management and information literacy. Although I had basic computer skills, the course has broadened my ability to manipulate information. Most importantly, it has improved my understanding of patient data systems and their various uses. The information literacy competency is critical in nursing as it guides the individual on the amount and type of data to collect from patients. It also ensures that all the information is well evaluated and utilized in compliance with existing laws and policies (Knox, 2019). The competency has enhanced my ability to assess the value of certain clinical information and use it correctly. Improper use of valuable data can lead to ethical violations or threaten patients safety (Knox, 2019). This course has also enhanced my capability to manage health information via various systems. My capability to collect, organize, process, and present the data as knowledge or information is now better than before. Overall, this course has positively impacted my informatics competencies and improved my technology knowledge and appreciation.

Reference

Knox, A. (2019). Informatics in nursing education: What Do We Do Next?Canadian Journal of Nursing Informatics, 14(4).

Introduction

Nurses have a chance of making a difference in the society by caring for the sick in hospitals. It is impossible to run a healthcare facility without nurses. Nurses help healthcare institutions to run smoothly and effectively. A leader is a person who is charged with the responsibility of directing or guiding a group of people with the aim of achieving a set goal (Glazer 2011). To be a good leader, one has to possess certain qualities. The following are the qualities that a good nurse leader must possess.

Effective communicator

A good nurse leader must have the ability to communicate effectively. A good nurse leader should be able to effectively communicate with patients and fellow employees. Research has shown that a leader who is able to communicate effectively is likely to be successful (Kelly & Tazbir 2012). A good leader should also be able to listen to the views of fellow employees so as to improve the performance of the organization.

Motivator

A good nurse leader should be able to motivate nurses and other employees in a healthcare facility to work harder. Motivation improves the morale of employees (Clark 2009). They will want to work hard to achieve the goals of the organization. A good nurse leader should be able to inspire the employees of the organization to give their best as they discharging their duties.

Organized

A good nurse leader should be able to effectively delegate duties. A good leader has to make choices that will have a positive impact on the organization (Kelly & Tazbir 2012).

Decisive

Leaders are responsible of making hard and timely decisions in an organization. A good nurse leader should never be afraid of making decisions. Some situations require leaders to make decisions that will have an effect on the well-being of the organization (Kelly & Tazbir 2012). It is important to have all the information needed before making any decision. A good leader should be able to stick to the decisions that he or she makes.

Visionary

A good nurse leader should be able to see into the future (Kelly & Tazbir 2012). A good leader learns from past mistakes.

A role model

People in leadership positions should act as role models to their subordinates. A good leader will practice what he or she preaches. A good leader should be able guide the employees of an organization to achieve the goals of the organization (Clark 2009). Being a good role model will help a leader to get the best from their subordinate employees.

Caring

A good nurse must be understanding and nonjudgmental. He or she should be able to empathize with patients (Kelly & Tazbir 2012). A good nurse leader should be able to relate effectively with patients and their families. A good nurse leader should interact with patients on a daily basis as this is the only way he or she can be able to improve patient care in a health care facility (Glazer 2011).

Conclusion

Healthcare institutions like all other institutions and organizations need strong leaders. These leaders should be able relate well with other employees and patients. They should be able to motivate and guide their subordinate employees to work hard so as to achieve the goals of the organization. It is also important that nurse leaders be good role models to their subordinate employees.

References

Clark, C. C. (2009). Creative nursing leadership & management. Sudbury, Mass.: Jones and Bartlett Publishers.

Glazer, G. L. (2011). Nursing leadership from the outside in. New York: Springer Pub. Co..

Kelly, P., & Tazbir, J. (2012). Essentials of nursing leadership & management (3rd. Ed.). Clifton Park, NY: Delmar.

Course Objectives

The course program was extensive, and students were challenged to focus on several areas simultaneously while thoroughly following the course instructions. To achieve my goals, I first studied the necessary and additional materials, reinforcing my knowledge by observing the necessary video materials. This step enabled the critical information analysis, followed by the synthesis phase of the data obtained and the assignments completion. Consistent work organization facilitated the fulfillment of tasks on time from different perspectives. Nevertheless, comprehending the significance of the subject, it was obvious that a thorough study of the topic is necessary for the course and further practice. Completing all assignments eventually led to the development of the ability to explain the reasons for certain trends, awareness of healthcare issues, and the nurses role in dealing with legal issues (American Nurses Association, 2021). Merely as notably, the end of the course provided an awareness of the specifics of making changes in nursing practice based on the knowledge gained and identifying strategies to socialize in the profession.

The Influence of the Material on Practice

Undoubtedly, the course material had a tremendous impact on professional practice. After reading the information presented in the course, it became clear what transformations had taken place in the medical field and where to focus on. Moreover, the detailed analysis of the problems of modern nursing made it possible to identify the roots of these problems and, consequently, solve them more quickly in practice. It has become apparent that technology now has an important role in patient care, leading to awareness of how modern strategies can help patients more quickly and effectively. Humanization of education aims to create conditions for the students self-determination in modern culture, which reveals the creative potential of personality, shows value orientations, and forms moral qualities with their subsequent actualization in professional activity (American Nurses Association, 2021). It was the essence of the material which donated to the desire for continuous improvement. Moreover, I am now aware of the social and historical experience of nursing, and the knowledge gained has become a motivator for greater initiative in both practice and social life.

The Role of Nursing Trends and Problems Awareness

While nursing trends and issues concern everyone, they most affect professional practice. For example, examining tendencies assembles wisdom about contemporary modes of precluding, diagnosing, and managing conditions and unique medicines and procedures. At the same time, medical invention is about developing the proficiency base and converting currently utilized technology and business models in practice to satisfy more practical changing conditions and anticipations (National Academy of Sciences, 2011). Moreover, the course included history, which, as part of the general theoretical block of fundamental disciplines, acts as a propaedeutic discipline, uniting the curriculum disciplines within the specialty and at different levels of medical education. Analysis of historical features can affect the specificity of understanding individual disciplines in their mastering and, accordingly, more appropriate application of them in practice. The history of medicine has concretized the idea of the peculiarities of nursing care while influencing the level of humanization and professional culture.

Notably, nursing trends are changing the entire philosophy of the profession. For example, digitalization and its features will help provide care more efficiently and satisfy patients wishes. The issue of quality improvement is now directly dependent on the resources invested in nurse education and retraining. However, learning and understanding the issues and trends allows one to focus on the proper material already at the training stage and be much more successful in applying new technologies in practice (National Academy of Sciences, 2011). Moreover, the study of problems contributes to understanding areas that need to be focused on in further training and practice. This course is thus an integral part of learning, as it is vital to developing an understanding of the specifics, challenges, and opportunities of nursing. In turn, awareness of these factors allows me to actively implement innovations in practice and maximize patient health while minimizing risks.

References

American Nurses Association. (2021). Nursing: Scope and standards of practice. IOM Future of Nursing Report ANA CMA Activities 3/3/11 (nursingworld.org)

National Academy of Sciences. (2011). The future of nursing: Leading change, advancing health. Key Messages of the Report  The Future of Nursing  NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)

The current COVID-19 pandemic has proven to be a challenge for most nations around the globe. Both economic and social realities people became used to changed, affecting the stability and livelihood of millions. While many have become desensitized to the idea of living amidst a global health crisis, it is impossible to understate the influence these events have had on peoples lives. On a more global scale, pandemic can be viewed as a catalyst for change. Comparing COVID-19 to previous infectious disease outbreaks, it is possible to see the occurrence as a start of a cultural shift, one capable of taking humanity in either a better or a worse future. It is currently impossible to draw a full conclusion on the effects of the pandemic, as its effects are multi-layered.

First, the pandemic presents an opportunity for change in medical and professional spheres. Looking at major historical outbreaks, like the Black Death of the Middle Ages, it is possible to argue that people learned invaluable lessons from the experience. The four humour theory of medicine fell out of fashion, and the early roots of germ theory were set during this time, allowing humans to develop a more useful and accurate view of health. Similarly, the COVID-19 pandemic offers invaluable data on the spread of functionality of infectious disease, effects of policy and containment measures, as well as a multitude of other factors. While strained, the medical community has had the ability to obtain priceless information in this period.

Furthermore, it is necessary to consider the pandemic as an agent of social upheaval. Most organizations have had to transition to remote work, or adjust the way they operate to stay in business. For companies themselves, this meant learning to take risks and adapt to changing circumstances. As for the workers, the introduction of work-from-home policies has expanded the potential range of employment opportunities. Many can finally regain a sense of control over their lives, and work in more comfortable conditions. After getting a feel for how work could be organized, it is unlikely that most workers would want to return to jobs that put them under constant avoidable pressure, or could be done remotely. As a result, a hopeful outlook predicts a transformation of jobs that will empower the working class.

In a more pessimistic outlook, however, it is also possible to consider the enormous level of corporate selfishness and massive layoffs that happened during the pandemic. Many organizations simply chose to cut costs by reducing their staff, or endangered individuals by forcing them to come into work despite associated risks. Regardless of the immoral nature of these acts, most organizations that survived the pandemic currently enjoy record profits, which only reinforces these anti-employee types of behaviors. Then, it is possible to argue that the pandemic set an uncomfortable precedent for mistreating employees on a systematic level.

Errors associated with patient treatment are widespread, resulting in negative outcomes. Mistake prevention in clinical treatment is generally understood, and a vast body of research studying preventative measures exists. On the other hand, direct care errors are not the only things that can hurt patients. Clinical research errors can significantly affect medical outcomes by altering the quality of care for hundreds of clients if they are substantial enough to influence the researchers conclusions. Several studies have found that inaccuracies in clinical investigation records are prevalent. Despite this, less is understood about the different types of errors found in scientific databases, their features, and their potential impact on study conclusions.

Ensuring correct and available information will minimize the common sources of error in clinical research databases. Implementing integrity checks, which identify data entries that are impossible or internally inconsistent, is a basic approach to identifying errors. However, they only assess the information for a restricted number of scenarios; hence the error rate is likely to be underestimated (Goldberg et al., 2008). More comprehensive cognitive integration of datasets would almost certainly reduce error rates by applying dynamic limitations that change depending on the situation of other variables in the database. Double-entry or other methods, including read-aloud data entry, could be used in high-value data entry; however, the cost of implementation could be high.

Failure to delegate responsibilities and insufficiency of master data management are two possible hurdles to good data reliability in clinical research databases. The data analysis throughout the data input procedure will improve with the appropriate training of the research staff. In addition, when compared to paper-based forms, electronic data collecting forms result in lower mistake counts, such as missing and illegible values, improving data quality. Therefore, electronic data capturing produces higher-quality data and is an important approach for improving poor data integrity.

In conclusion, data structuring and entry and the influence of data integrity on clinical results are frequently unknown to research study teams. Clinical research studies require high-quality data, using electronic data capture technologies, staff skills training, adherence to data handling best standards, and prior engagement with data analysts to boost the research. These are some vigilant efforts to minimize errors in clinical research databases, thereby creating a robust research operation.

Reference

Goldberg, S. I., Niemierko, A., and Turchin, A. (2008). Analysis of data errors in clinical research databases. AMIA Symposium Proceedings, 242-246. Web.

Introduction

At the present stage of the development of medicine and health services, patients are given the right to make their own decisions about what type of care they want to receive in the hospital. Thus, the concepts of inpatient and outpatient care arose, which depend on the patients condition and the severity of the disease or the conditions with which the person was admitted. It is worth noting that in the selection process, the result is mainly based not only on the opinion of the patient but also on the professional point of view of the attending medical specialist. Therefore, analysis of the benefits and challenges of inpatient and outpatient services can help determine which way of health care delivery is more suitable for particular cases.

Benefits and Challenges of Inpatient and Outpatient Services

For this reason, this scientific paper will first consider the advantages of inpatient and outpatient care. The first type of provision of medical services implies cases when the patient remains in the hospital to undergo the necessary treatment (Yetmar et al., 2020). One of the main advantages of this type of service is increased attention to the patient from the medical staff. This aspect includes constant verification of the individuals condition, certification of timely medication intake, or provision of urgent assistance in emergency cases. This advantage also applies to the rehabilitation period since, in this case, doctors and nurses can fully make sure that the patient can leave the healthcare facility with minimal possibility of any risks. In addition, inpatient services provide an opportunity to receive medical operations using the latest technologies and achievements in this field (Varghese et al., 2018). This allows healthcare employees to accelerate the process of treatment and rehabilitation, which will not be as fast and effective at home.

One of the main inconveniences that may arise when choosing inpatient healthcare services may be time-consuming. So, in this case, patients have to take time off from work or study, which can cause difficulties. Moreover, among the disadvantages of inpatient services the deterioration of the psychological state can be highlighted. Many patients may experience a mental decline due to the fact that they feel uncomfortable in a hospital setting and cannot stay away from their families for a long time. One of the most significant differences and challenges of inpatient care in relation to outpatient one is the cost. Staying in a hospital can cost individuals a reasonably large amount, so many make a choice to leave a medical institution to be treated at home.

Having considered the advantages and disadvantages of inpatient care, it is worth moving on to an alternative to this method, which is outpatient services of health care. A relatively large number of services fall under this type, which ranges from a blood test to an X-ray. In other words, outpatient care implies those services that do not require staying in a hospital (Levine et al., 2019). The central positive aspect of this type of treatment is the small costs that are required to receive the help of medical specialists. Moreover, unlike the impatient type of services, when refusing to stay in a medical institution, people get more opportunities to perform their everyday actions; that is, they retain their mobility. In addition, patients do not experience psychological problems due to separation from relatives and friends.

Despite these advantages, outpatient services also have specific challenges that can affect the choice of inpatient care. Hence, among them, it is essential to mention that individuals do not receive the same amount of attention and monitoring from healthcare professionals. In this case, they can only do with periodic check-ups, which may cause a longer duration of treatment and no guarantee that negative consequences will not occur. Additionally, while maintaining mobility and mental well-being, outpatient care can pose specific challenges for the family and loved ones of the patient. Hence, in some cases, these people have to take leave from their place of work or study to provide adequate care and treatment to a sick family member. Further, in the absence of complications for the individual himself, people around can experience them, which distinguishes outpatient care from inpatient.

One important aspect worth mentioning is the fact that inpatient and outpatient health services are interconnected. Consequently, after getting a job inside the hospital, all patients switch to the outpatient type. This is due to the fact that at this stage, the treatment received is fixed in the hospital, and the patients welfare is checked. Thus, despite their differences, the studied types of services support each other and help find effective medical care results.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this research work provided information and analyzed the positive and negative features of two types of medical services, inpatient and outpatient. Therefore, the main areas in which positive and negative aspects were highlighted are cost, psychological state, mobility and flexibility, and the level of attention and quality of services from health care workers. Thus, the choice between the type of care depends directly on the patients because inpatient and outpatient have unique characteristics that help to make it.

References

Levine, D. M., Landon, B. E., & Linder, J. A. (2019). Quality and experience of outpatient care in the United States for adults with or without primary care.JAMA Internal Medicine, 179(3), 363-372.

Varghese, J., Kleine, M., Gessner, S. I., Sandmann, S., & Dugas, M. (2018). Effects of computerized decision support system implementations on patient outcomes in inpatient care: a systematic review. Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association, 25(5), 593-602.

Yetmar, Z. A., Issa, M., Munawar, S., Burton, M. C., Pureza, V., Sohail, M. R., & Mehmood, T. (2020). Inpatient care of patients with COVID-19: a guide for hospitalists.The American Journal of Medicine, 133(9), 1019-1024.

The article in consideration is titled Development and Evaluation of a Nurse Leadership Succession Planning Strategy in an Academic Medical Center and was written by Morris, Wood, and Dang. The work was published in 2020 in an authoritative source of information, The Journal of Nursing Administration. The main idea conveyed by the authors is that nursing manager succession planning is an essential yet absent part of academic medical center work. The authors found it necessary to develop and outline an evidence-based program for process improvement. The project strove to create an effective pipeline of new nurse manager leaders who are able to take responsibility for retiring or transferring professionals.

In the introduction, the researchers accentuated that it is universally believed that new nurse supervisors are either unqualified or poorly prepared for their responsibilities. Evidence points to the necessity for succession planning programs that involve identifying, selecting, and enrolling nurses in leadership training initiatives. With the help of a literature review, the researchers were then able to recognize past nursing succession programs, which helped with the study. In order to conduct an interview and find possible barriers to advancement, Morris et al. were able to identify 160 top clinical performers (Morris et al., 2020). The given interview findings helped immensely establish the nurse leadership management program prognosis and barriers identification.

Consequently, various outcomes of poor nurse leadership management were discovered. The research showed that there would be continuing turnover and vacancies in nurse management roles. Moreover, it was said that persistent gaps in management could lead to negative consequences. Reduced direct leadership turnover initiatives can enhance the quality of care, employee retention, and business ratios. Additionally, barriers to leadership were identified, including stress, a lack of education, and lessened patient contact.

Reference

Morris, M., Wood, F., & Dang, D. (2020). Development and evaluation of a nurse leadership succession planning strategy in an Academic Medical Center. The Journal of Nursing Administration, 50(7/8), 378-384.

At the moment, AIDS is becoming quite widespread, despite all the preventive and familiarization measures carried out in educational institutions. Thus, in order to improve the situation, college administrations are introducing various measures to combat the problem. The educational organization, Camden County College decided to install dispensers with condoms in the toilets. Henceforth, this work aims to prove that condom dispensers are an effective measure to lower the incidence of AIDS in adolescents, increase the credibility of college and develop sexual education and awareness.

Therefore, as already mentioned, Camden County College decided to install special dispensers in the toilets of the educational organization. The main problem was the ambiguity of opinions about this decision. However, this work believes that this initiative can play a positive role in changing the dynamics of sexually transmitted diseases and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome or AIDS. At the moment, it is noted that the age of sexual activity is significantly reduced. Research shows that in a nationally representative survey of college students, only 58% of sexually active students reported condom use at last vaginal intercourse (The Condom Dispenser Initiative para. 1). Further, one of the sources indicated that The contributing factors are the cost, lack of convenient access, social norms, and lack of knowledge on how to use a condom effectively (Turner 2). These indicators are disappointing since, at the same time, the risk of contracting a dangerous disease increases. Moreover, feelings of shame or lack of money can also influence the decision of young people to neglect contraceptives.

Limited access to protective equipment such as condoms is the most important obstacle in the fight against sexually transmitted diseases in young people. Hence, when installing dispensers, the incidence rate can significantly improve since it directly affects the issue. Every young person cannot worry about buying a contraceptive measure. Particular influence in this process should be paid attention to the aspect that the introduction and improvement of sexual education are crucial. It is vital to instill in students the importance of following the rules of contraception and how important it is not to have promiscuous sexual relations. This will allow a positive response to the installation of dispensers with condoms in the toilet. An equally important role is played by the social factor, which can hinder the success of the introduction of dispensers in condoms. This may be met with contempt or vice versa with abuse of the opportunity provided.

In addition, it will contribute to maintaining organization in this process, where students rationally and responsibly use the resources provided by the college. Thus, when introducing awareness about sexual education and the importance of observing AIDS-related preventive measures, college students will treat the installation of dispensers as vending machines. Therefore, the almost animal instinct that leads to a wrong attitude to initiative and ridicule will be absent.

In conclusion, this work was engaged in the study of the effectiveness of the installation of dispensers with condoms at Camden County College. The main argument given for this measure is the reduction of cases of infection with AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. Moreover, it will contribute to strengthening the credibility of the educational organization and the development of sexual education in it. In addition, the argument supporting the initiative implies an increase in the availability of contraceptive measures for young people, who sometimes do not have the opportunity to purchase them on their own.

Works Cited

The Condom Dispenser Initiative: Promoting Condom Availability, Accessibility and Use on a College Campus.Comm.UKy.Edu, 2018, Web.

Turner, Madilynn. Condom Dispenser Program. 2019. Capstone Projects and Masters Theses.

As a nurse, I understand that care and compassion are the cornerstones of my competence and performance. A nurse should often be of utmost competence and professionalism, and the aspects of personal approach can be disregarded. The responsibilities that a nurse faces and must carry out, for example, creating a safe environment or collecting data, should be undertaken with care and compassion (Nursing: Scope and standards of practice). As an example of this, I would like to present my personal experience with a patient who suffered from dementia. The subject of this case was very difficult to communicate with, and initially, I struggled with doubts about my abilities and expertise. Through research, I have discovered that other professionals also find this matter to be challenging (Low et al., 2019). Reading about their experiences enabled me to find strength and empathy for my difficult patient.

Through the experience of seeking guidance from sources of authority, I realized that compassion is a matter that supersedes myself and the patient. It should include other professionals in the field, and I have sought help from others; I feel ready to extend my own hand to my colleagues. This notion especially rings true since I have taken the iCARE Self-Assessment and considered that my scores were specifically high in aspects of communication. As effective and fruitful communication is essential to good team building and patient safety, it should be one of the nurses priorities to consider and study it in their practice. It is important to ensure that workplace communication follows ethical engagement rules (Priest, Goodwin, & Dahlstrom, 2018). Therefore, I believe that compassion and care in nursing involve caring for the patient and considering cultural and social interactions among colleagues.

References

American Nurses Association. (2021). Nursing: Scope and standards of practice. American Nurses Association.

Low, L. F., McGrath, M., Swaffer, K., & Brodaty, H. (2019). Communicating a diagnosis of dementia: A systematic mixed studies review of attitudes and practices of health practitioners. Dementia, 18(78), 28562905.

Priest, S., Goodwin, J., & Dahlstrom, M. F. (2018). Ethics and practice in science communication. University of Chicago Press.