Economic Viability Of Photovoltaic Cell Productions Environmental Sciences Essay

The UK Government and the bulk of developed states ‘ representatives have started paying a batch of attending towards low C breathing engineerings. This proposal is for the production of photovoltaic cells in an economic manner, to do this most abundant and clean fuel the cheapest and best option for people to utilize. Why should we breathe less Carbon in the ambiance, and shall we exchange to the energy resources which are less carbon emitting? Are we cognizant of our environment in which we live? Do we cognize the danger for humanity in the approaching centuries? Can we recognize that we are responsible for the depletion of clean air and other resources from our environment? The reply is NO. People in this money devising universe are non cognizant of their environment and besides they are non interested in taking attention of or their well-being. Increase in the figure of industries across the universe increases the sum of green house gases [ GHG ] emanation ( Mills, 2003 ) . Harmonizing to the 2010 figures obtained from the website State Master 2010, the Carbon emanation is at a unsafe degree in most of the industrialised states. As a consequence of increasing GHG in atmosphere our Earth is confronting a serious climatic alteration ne'er witnessed before. Already a immense hole has been identified in the ozone bed because of the increasing degree of toxin and GHG emanations. Global heating is now turning as a serious issue in all states and full universe is now seeking to take down the degree of toxic substances in atmosphere and to cut down planetary heating. Because of planetary heating glaciers and ice caps started runing in Polar Regions. If planetary heating continues in the same manner so our climatic status will alter drastically which will ensue in the depletion of human sort from Earth ( Weiss, et. Al, 2008 ) . Solar power panels are nil but combination of photovoltaic cells and rectifying tubes. When light falls on the surface of photovoltaic cells, it produces an induced voltage. When 1000s of photovoltaic cells are arranged in a panel and when all of them are connected in series, the electromotive force produced will acquire multiplied, therefore bring forthing a coveted electromotive force that can be used for place applications.Topographic points where you can implement solar power panels:Every street in every state has street visible radiations. All the street visible radiations can be made to work under solar power panels which save the sum of electricity. Solar power panels can be installed in every place to obtain power for running simple electrical contraption in places. The solar powered vehicles can assist finally cut downing the sum of C emanation ( Kaelin et. al. , 2004 ) . If we use solar power in the fabrication sectors so there is a immense possibility of cut downing the em anation of C dioxide in the ambiance.The major cause behind planetary heating:Research workers have found out that most of the climatic job which we face today is because of the emanation of carbon-dioxide. Whatever procedure we do, we emit carbon-dioxide. Industries are seeking to develop new engineerings in order to take down the sum of carbon-dioxide emitted into atmosphere. Apart from the increasing figure of industries there is a drastic lessening in the figure of trees across the universe. This is another major ground for high emanation of C dioxide in ambiance. Though there are many toxic substances emitted in atmosphere, most of the jobs are created merely due to carbon dioxide. So research workers and common people are now seeking to cut down the per centum of C emanation in ambiance.How to cut down C emanation?As we are now forced to cut down the C emanation sum, research workers and engineer are in a Hunt to happen out alternate attack. New methodological analysiss are de veloped and provided to people. When people use those methods finally emanation of C is traveling to be reduced. There are some power coevals methods from which you can achieve zero C emanation. Zero C power coevals methods will utilize natural resources for bring forthing power like hydro power, solar power, air current power, geothermic power and besides atomic power. ( Mckinnon et. al. , 2010 ) . If we use natural gas as our energy beginning we can achieve minimal sum of C emanation. Even if we use natural gas method the sum of C emitted can be captured and stored utilizing advanced methodological analysiss which prevents C from come ining into our ambiance. Everything is in the custodies of current and approaching coevalss as merely they can cut down the sum of C emitted into atmosphere. For illustration, they should seek to minimise the use of cars for unneeded state of affairss, cut down the use of air conditioners and iceboxs, and avoid combustion of fossil fuels and plastics and many more ( Mills, 2003 ) . To maintain our environment safe, it is of import that people around the Earth start utilizing clean fuel. No other fuel can be every bit clean as solar energy resource. We can work out energy related issues by utilizing this beginning. There are few companies who have succeeded in bring forthing photovoltaic cells for mundane usage. Still it is non the most utilised signifier of energy. The intent of this research proposal is to happen ways of doing solar energy use more common.Cardinal issues:Solar energy is a great energy resource. Still there are barriers to its common use. Although the engineering has proven to be environment friendly and more dependable for the future coevalss, it is still non used by multitudes. Marketability of a merchandise depends on several different factors such as affordability, nest eggs, practicality, and handiness in general. At present usage of solar energy is low-cost and practical. Still, people are non utilizing it to the extent they should. They still non gestate it as an economically feasible energy resource for them. In the under developed parts of the universe, there are really few companies which are bring forthing photoelectric cells that can be used by multitudes. The state of affairs, nevertheless, is different in the developed universe. Sing the figures given by Nation Master, if a clean fuel ( photovoltaic cells ) replaces other C breathing signifiers of energy in the developed states, the concerns of conservationists will be taken attention of. The issue here is that, although the photovoltaic cells are proven to be environment friendly, they are now available to multitudes and they are economically feasible excessively, it is still non the preferable fuel for multitudes. How should we travel about replacing all other C breathing beginnings of energy in every office and every place across the state with solar energy? This could be a immense effort, but one that truly should be deserving while, since if these syste ms worked good we could be salvaging the Earth and human sort a batch of heartache sing non renewable energy every bit good as pollution and of class money salvaging for concerns. The inquiry of marketing the merchandise to multitudes is what we need to reply.Research AimsThe aims of my research, in a nutshell, are as follows: To analyze the barriers to advancing solar power coevals and use as a fuel for multitudes. To analyze the implicit in grounds of ‘Why the solar engineering has non been feasible and common so far ‘ . To research if there has been any betterments in the bing engineering to do it be effectual solution to provide to the whole energy demands of a house or little concern. If non, what are the restraints and demand for betterments. Finding the economically feasible solution for little concerns. How to do it practically feasible for little concern and families, and how it can be taken to multitudes. To analyze the impacts of promotional activities towards doing the engineering common. I will roll up primary and secondary informations to analyze the impacts.Literature ReviewGlobal heating is the hot subject across the Earth. Scientists and research workers are seeking to happen some ways to cut down the sum of C dioxide being emitted into our ambiance. Already Earth has witnessed the consequences of C emanations in the signifier of depletion of ozone bed and thaw of glaciers and ice caps in the Polar Regions. If this status prevails and planetary heating tends to increase for the approaching old ages, there is a great menace to the following coevals of human sort ( Kaelin et. al. , 2004 ) . From the study of ESTIF ( 2007 ) , it is clear that if this status prevails for following century so evidently our full human sort will be at the hazard of extinction. Is at that place any manner to cut down the green house consequence? Is at that place any manner to cut down or even to avoid the emanation of C into our ambiance? Yes. There are many other natural energy resources utilizing which you can even forestall the emanation of C into our ambiance. Natural energy resources are available in the signifier of H2O, air, air current, solar and atomic. Among the signifiers of energy resources mentioned above, it is solar energy which we get more abundant than other beginnings of energy. Weiss et.al ( 2008 ) references that it is merely through heat energy we are making most of our twenty-four hours to twenty-four hours activities. Using solar powered generators you can easy bring forth the necessary sum of electricity that can run some electrical contraptions in your place. Solar power panels can be easy installed in your places from which you can easy bring forth and hive away power that can be used for any electrical intent. Solar power panels are now popular across the universe and most authoritiess are now seeking to pin down the maximal sum of solar power they obtain. We know that about half the solar power is radiated from Earth ‘s surface, which when trapped can be efficaciously used for power coevals intents. If solar power coevals techniques are implemented successfully, we can easy cut down the emanation of C to a greater extent. Mckinnon et. Al. ( 2010 ) have discussed the market size merely in UK for solar energy utilizing devices. The information from 2009 Tells us that companies and public corporations make up 58.2 % of the UK endeavors, 24.4 % are exclusive owners and in conclusion non-profits make up 3.9 % and partnerships 13.5 % . This information is rather important as we know that many companies are proprietaries and merely little concerns. The proficient sector of the economic system ( including scientific and professional ) makes up 15 per centum of endeavors in the UK and it is a sector that would certainly utilize new engineering such as that of a solar electric generator. Another sector that is really note worthy is the buildings sector which makes up 13.4 per centum of endeavors, as concerns in this sector would most surely use new engineering, as they are in the concern of edifice, so why non construct with the latest engineering. When looking at the sizes of companies it is really note worthy that 88.7 % of UK concerns have less than 10 employed, which normally means it is a little company, and 98 % have less than 50 and merely 0.4 % has an employment of over 250. This clearly shows how many little concerns there are in the UK and if 88.7-98 % of concerns in the UK switched to new non-carbon emitting engineering for electricity, there would no uncertainty be a immense positive consequence on the environment. It is true that even though really big companies make up merely a little figure of the concerns in the UK they still produced hundred of times more emanations than the little companies combined, as it is mentioned earlier, the big companies would be certain to put in such engineering as it would be really of import for them public dealingss wise. If a big company choose NOT to travel ‘green ‘ while other big companies do, consumers would decidedly head to the ‘green ‘ competition. So with the big concerns reasonably good forced to subject to the new engineering, is it worth doing it come-at-able and doing the investing for the 98 % smaller companies? Well yes. strength is in Numberss, right! ( Izquierdo et. al. , 2010 ) . With the sheer figure of little concerns in the UK, there would be an undoubted impact if they all went with the new engineering, as through their Numberss little companies have a big impact.MethodologyThe basic methodological analysis I will follow during this research will be to roll up information through dependable secondary beginnings. I will analyze the impacts of marketing attempts of two solar cells making/distributing companies from UK over the buying form of their mark market. The organisations I have selected are: ECOSOL UK Solar Century UK Initially, I will establish my research on secondary informations. If, nevertheless, the published beginnings turn out to be less so required, I will roll up primary informations through questionnaire methods. For my research, I will analyze secondary informations about the two above mentioned houses. After informations aggregation, it will be classified, and analysis will be done. The analysis might necessitate the usage of some statistical tools which will be used as per demand. Interpretations will be made on the footing of this analysis. The research therefore will be done non merely qualitatively but it will besides be quantitative.Ethical ConsiderationsWhile roll uping the information, it will be ensured that no confidential/classified information offered by the companies is misused. The information will be protected. Name callings of the participants in my primary informations aggregation interviews/survey will non be displaced in any state of affairs. The company informations and any personal information collected during this research will be safe guarded carefully to guarantee no information larceny or abuse of information.Undertaking TeamThis research will be carried out under the supervising of my supervisor. I will roll up the information for analysis, and will make a thorough research on the bing state of affairs and will show my findings in written signifier.Undertaking TasksTo transport on this research, I will analyze about the bing market state of affairs and about the already explored possibilities of utilizing solar energy as the chief energy resource in our mundane life. Use of solar energy as the most of import energy resource by multitudes has many advantages. The nest eggs would be great. Huge cost decrease in the usage of electrical energy, and this energy beginning would be much less taxing on the Earth thanks to no more C emanations, it ‘s a renewable beginning that we are non traveling to run out of and the Earth would be health ier and safer for future coevalss. There is no uncertainty that the benefits are immense, for the Earth, for people and for concern. Large concerns would be all over it right from the start, nevertheless, there are far greater figure of little concerns than big concerns, how can these little concerns be convinced that the solar energy resource is good, and one time they are positive how can it be made practical for them to utilize photovoltaic energy?Progress So FarThe clip taken up boulder clay now has been utilized in preliminary degree research. The undertakings which will necessitate to be done to successfully finish this research are: First undertaking to be done is to be after the whole procedure. It will take a hebdomad to complete the program and to get down working on it. This undertaking will be done by the terminal of December 2010, before the winter interruption. This undertaking includes readying of questionnaires and other research tools every bit good. After the undertakings are planned and it comes to the executing, the following measure would be research. This is the toughest portion, and I will necessitate a month for it. The month of January, 2010 and some portion of February will be dedicated to this undertaking. This stage includes informations aggregation through primary and secondary resources. This is the toughest stage as the two above mentioned companies will be contacted and informations will be collected about them. The last hebdomad of February, 2011 will be spent in sorting and analysing the information. The last 3 hebdomads of February, and some portion of March 2011 will be spent in composing the existent thesis article. March 2011 will be spent in redacting the thesis as per my supervisor ‘s instructions and the concluding undertakings like printing and binding for concluding entries will besides be done during this clip frame. Even though we are allowed until the terminal of April, 2011, I want to let myself some slack clip in instance I needed to make redacting.Resources requiredTo transport out this research, I will necessitate entree to library, cyberspace and on-line libraries for literature reappraisal, research and secondary informations aggregation. To reach the companies, a missive of recognition will be required from the university. I will besides necessitate a tape recording equipment for the unfastened ended inquiries of my questionnaire for primary informations aggregation. Stationery will be required for completion of the undertaking.Undertaking CostThe entire cost of this undertaking that I will hold to bear will be my ain traveling disbursals to see the company offices, and the cost of printing, and adhering the thesis.

Behavioral Perspectives

Follet, Munsterberg and Mayo are mostly known for behavioral- science approach theory. They are more focused on the human and psychological factors, which are likely to affect the workers. A considerable philosophy of the theory illuminates employee relationship and motivation, information processing and organizational development. The three are also considered the founders of organizational psychology and behavioral approaches in the theories of management. Follet is an American social worker, a pioneer in the organizational theory and organizational behavior. He is works as a management consultant. Her theory criticized the poor handling of employees and urge managers to be friendly. In doing so, they should grant them the liberty to collaborate, socialize and work in teams. Munsterberg, on the other hand, states that only workers with standard mental capability and moral standards should be hired. Moreover, increased employee motivation, job performance, and employee retention are very imperative. In other words, he encourages matching an employee merits with his or her job description. Elton Mayo, who started human relations movement is best known for Hawthorne studies which were conducted at the western electric company. His theory is based on the soft ways for successful management. According to him, individual's work performance depends greatly on job satisfaction. He contributed significantly to behaviorism movement in the management field. However, Marx, Weber, and Taylor oppose such positions and call for employees liberations. For instance, Marx is against the bourgeois who use other people to become rich. They are uncomfortable with the states of affairs that use other people as instruments of making wealth. Even though Marx, weber and Taylor contrast them, Follet, Munsterberg and Mayo transformed the way modern employers relate to their employees. Q2Organizational structure defines how organizational activities are coordinated, and directing supervisions of the allocated tasks towards the achievement of organizational goals. Major types of the organizational structure include functional, divisional and matrix. Functional structure refers to the grouping of the organization departments according to purposes. It is useful for small organizations with flexible departments which can solely rely on the skills, talents, and knowledge of employees. Divisional structure is used by large organizations which operate in different geographical areas. The organization is divided into divisions which areas separately managed towards achieving the common set goals. It is useful in the sense that its desires can be met rapidly and more specifically since each division operates independently. Q3Everyone in a workplace possesses different personalities. The use of personality test immensely employs the use of the big five personality traits which includes openness, extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and neuroticism. In a workplace, personality traits can help in revealing strengths and weaknesses of the employees. Moreover, it helps in determining levels of emotional intelligence among employees, a key tool for effective communication. In addition to this, personality traits help in creating awareness and enhancing excellent teamwork among employees. Finally, personality traits it helps in promoting a deeper understanding of employee capabilities based on their strengths and capabilities, thus making it easier to delegate the duties. Q4 Perceptual distortions refer to the variations of a person's response to a stimulus from the common perception. Majorly, it occurs as a result of intellectual biases of an individual. The major causes of perceptual distortions include but not limited to stereotyping, halo effect, pre-deposition, recency effect, pre-deposition effect, primacy effect, and prejudice. An example of perceptual distortion is that of an individual who is suffering from anorexia and holds a biased self-image. Such people see their bodies as overweighed and unsightly whereas others perceive them as the undernourished as well as underweighted. Q5 Impression management refers to a self-presentation system which focuses on improving a person's image in the eyes of others. Typically, it refers to a process in which people attempt to influence the perception of others. Managers synonymously implement the use of impression management to present themselves to their employees, the public and to their peers as a way of impelling the insights of their appearance. The underlying motives and basic governing factors of impression management culminates in the awareness of being a potential monitoring instrument and the kind social status. Additionally, cultural norms, personal goals, and social perspectives form other impression motives and governing factors for managers. The duo reveals the assertions, which leads to a dynamic way of presentational aspects. Managers tend to impress their employees, peers and the public through the types of clothes they put on, which have specific designs and fashions. Politicians wear nice suits, carries an expensive suitcase and move inexpensive cars so as to impress the public as they woe for votes. Christianity is another strategy used by managers to impress peers and the public alleging that their ways are pure. Q6 Stress refers to a hypersensitive response of the body to any kind of emotional strain. It occurs as a result of personal conflict between the job workload or demands and the little amount of time an employee has to meet these demands, hence lack of control. The common demands that may lead to stress in the workplace include poor organization of the work, poor work design, poor working conditions, poor management and lack of supervisory support. Moreover, job monotony and excessive workload are also sources of stress in a workstation. The general responses to stress that can be experienced are majorly classified into physical, Emotional responses. Physical stress occurs in the general body and includes pains, aches and other diseases that may be caused by stress. Physical stress is accompanied by frequent headaches, chest problems, back pain and aching stomach. It is also characterized by insufficient sleep and high blood pressure. On the other hand, Emotional responses are experiences involving feelings and thoughts during stressful circumstances. Such responses include depression and anxiety, withdrawing socially and becoming more forgetful. Anger, lack of focus and becoming more restless are other emotional responses to stress. Excessive stress is fatal and prevention measures should be put in place. In order to deal with stress, one should first trace the origin and know the causes of stress and develop healthy responses to curb the situation. Relaxing the mind and having sufficient sleep are important techniques suppressing stress. Avoid being lonely, talk to other people and seek for their help. Finally, talking to the supervisor about the stressing issue can help solve the situation. This can be perfected by improving working conditions.

Heraclitus v Parmenides

The heavily studied philosophical debate that has been carried for centuries on the nature of being and the perception of it, displays the vast differences between the two philosophers Heraclitus and Parmenides. One which believed in a singularity of things, while one differs and carries the philosophy of a duality of reality. One that believes that the changes in perception are deceitful, while the other displays a philosophical view that our perceptions essentially relative and always changing based one of nature. One believes that reality and nature is constant , while the other believes that everything is constantly changing , and that even the flowing river that one may step his foot in will not be the same river the next time around. Heraclitus believed things were ever-changing, and that may be true. Science and physics( which is an arm of philosophy tells us that when force is applied to things there is the possibility of a change in the molecular make up of the item. It is like a formless matter. Once the matter has been molded into a particular form it is more than likely to lose atoms during the process. I believe the example of the flowing river is a pretty clever one. Being that the river is ever flowing there is constant erosion occurring as the constant (the bed of the river) interacts with the moving (the flow of the water). In actuality even the small acts such as shaking hands involves the exchange of atoms and molecules. Parmenides presented a conflicting philosophical opinion to that of Heraclitus. Parmenides presented the view that the state of being in nature is constant. It does not change and that our perception of reality may at times be very deceitful. While I do not agree with this in regards to the state of being and nature I do think this argument would hold much weight and would be considered a solid truth in terms of psychology. A person’s psychological makeup could very well affect the way a person views reality, and could present falsehoods. One of Parmenides’ most popular argument of that something that is not cannot be feasibly proven as it is not in a state of being. I would argue that it could simply as the inverse of something that is. While both have left a longing impression on the western philosophy and we are still arguing the same debate that they did today, I would have to agree with the argument of Heraclitus on the topic of the status of being. Things are always changing; we live with gravity which in itself causes us to change, without it we would not age nearly as quickly as we do. I find the difference in the argument in the duality and constant being of nature to be one of a matter from a modern perspective as looking at things from a macro and micro perspective. On the macro side things look the same and unchanged as it takes drastic force or influence to change things, but on the micro level even the small of acts cause for a strong movement of atoms. I would have to agree with Heraclitus, although Parmenides does present a very valid argument when placed in proper context.

Business research methods Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Business research methods - Essay Example Trends were detected through the tabulation of related figures and the preparation of bar graphs and pie charts that served to clearly illustrate the movement, direction or trend from one year to the next. The researcher proceeded to focus on the construction industry in UK. Primary data were generated by way of conducting interviews and giving out questionnaires for both selected industry major players and for randomly selected representatives of the industry market. Research is basically done to gather data in a systematic manner and to interpret such data in the same systematic manner; throughout the process, the purpose of discovering relevant truths should be clearly imprinted in the mind of the researcher (Saunders, Lewis & Thornhill, 2007: 5). The procedures to gather primary data were done to document the sentiments and views of the people in the industry in their various post. Both similarities and differences amongst the answers they provided to uniform questions were recor ded and analysed to further analyse the impact of the prevailing industry condition on the individual characters making up the industry group. The data gathered were not limited to the construction industry. ... This report can be revised to suit any particular group of users. After all, a research paper can only be useful to the extent that it addresses the concerns and needs of its reader. This truth applies to all written works, including industry profiles and management research papers. Researchers must be mindful of and responsive to the concerns and interests of practitioners - the users of the finished reports - for their research output to serve a purpose and become valuable (Bryman & Bell, 2007: 5). To serve the needs of the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), it can be made to cover more useful details including the needs and demands of the country’s construction industry that can, in turn, be catered to by the SMEs. These needs and demands of the industry can be analysed using supply value chains that would efficiently demonstrate how the needs of the industry as a whole can actually be addressed by properly organising SMEs to produce the required volumes and quantities of the necessary products or to provide the required services. To serve the needs of Multinational Enterprises (MNEs), more data on the investment opportunities and incentives that are offered by the UK government should be incorporated in the report. The comparative advantages of UK, as well, as the next expansion site of MNEs in the construction industry should be drummed up. Tax holidays and other corporate benefits offered by the country to MNEs should be covered in detail. Meanwhile, independent investors who might wish to buy shares of construction companies that are listed in the bourse would want to see the individual financial performance indicators of the industry leaders and to have

Marketing plan Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Marketing plan - Assignment Example We will introduce the new notebook, The Book-It Note, with penetration pricing and formidable advertising. We will also employ extensive distribution, which will translate to increased revenue and growth rate. Those over 31 years of age purchase relatively over 50 percent of all the notebooks as shown in the table above. Purchase of notebooks is also supposed to be dependent on gender. Normally, women purchase notebooks more than men do. However, the trend changes when the group in question is around 35 years of age or older. The current generation of young men is used to smartphone apps more than ladies are meaning that they may not be a very good set of The Book-It Note customers. For female student customers, their attention to aesthetic may require that we make the notebook a little appealing with vibrant colors. However, The Book-It Note is generally plain and neat eliminating any distractions while using it. Within the consumer market, we identify middle and upper-income professionals who normally have very tight schedules and their professions demand that they do not forget things they have discussed throughout the day or worse still, forget future meetings. The intricacy involved in using phones to record notes or noting down future appointments plus the possibility that the phone discharges or may lose data require more ‘tangible’ places to note down important information. The classical notebook is normally the best for this purpose. To reach this market, we will employ sales and marketing agents who will be visiting people in their offices and informing them of our innovative

INNOVATIONS OF THE TWENTIETH CENTURY Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

INNOVATIONS OF THE TWENTIETH CENTURY - Essay Example The GPS is a satellite navigational system that was invented and is being maintained by the United States military. Although it was originally designed for military operations purposes, its functions and benefits are now being hugely enjoyed by civilians across the world. Today, anyone can use the GPS as long as he or she has a GPS receiver. The navigational system that is stationed in space transmits signals and information to a GPS receiver on earth, thereby allowing anyone to know certain exact locations of anybody or anything at incredible speed. It is a breakthrough, indeed! To make it plain and simple the benefits of the GPS and how it has impact our world today, it will help to note that telecommunications companies use the GPS in transmitting signals for telecommunications purposes, especially communications using mobile or cellular phones. When you are driving your car and get lost in the middle of nowhere, a GPS tracking device could easily help you find the right the direc tion and even give you a graphic layout of your vicinity paths. Even before you start driving your car, most automobile companies have already added a GPS feature in their cars for security reasons.

Youve just visited the doctor, and she has given you one week to live Essay

Youve just visited the doctor, and she has given you one week to live. How will you spend your final week on Earth - Essay Example I would begin immediately by visiting the people I know without informing them of my impending doom. I would seek their company for the last time before I begin to retrace my journey across the years and places that helped to shape what I am. A few laughs and some nostalgic conversation is all a man really needs to cheat the thought of impending doom. The next item in the agenda would be to visit the places that helped to fashion both the positivity and negativity inside me. Visiting these places would offer me the opportunity to observe how I have changed over the years as my life progressed. This nostalgic sojourn would also allow me to rediscover myself in new manners that might only be exposed through the juxtaposition of a certain purposelessness and aloofness from material reality. My journey into my past would also present me with the opportunity to recapture and re-experience the sights and sounds that I both cherished and detested. My last week on Earth would more or less be like living life all over again – only fast forwarded into a week’s time

Fallacies Composition and Division Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Fallacies Composition and Division - Essay Example Hence, fallacious arguments are not always true and should be taken with a pinch of salt. A fallacious argument follows certain reasons that might be considered as logical to come to a conclusion in one’s favor. The pattern of reasoning in fallacy is based on criteria that is confined to promote the interests of the person and primarily relates to the expected conclusions or to conclude the argument as the wishes of the person. The person may follow any of the following set of reasons: Cite an authority to prove one’s point; quote categorized statistics; refer to one’s personal experience; and use analogies. Interestingly, while the person may consider the arguments as logical, the very pattern of reasoning makes it highly illogical because they lack the basic principles of universal validation processes. The most common fallacious argument that is prevalent in the society is that of Post Hoc Ergo Propter Hoc version of fallacy. These arguments base their reasoning on the events that has led to certain conclusion. The cause and effect theory is generally applied to prove one’s point of view. In the above example, the cause is false because merely pointing out that John and family had become sick due to vegetarian diet is inadequate for concluding that vegetarian diet is bad. There might have been a number of things that could have made them sick. There could have been many reasons like inadequate clothing, irregular eating habit, weak immunity system or even the fact that they might have been extremely tired and overworked, that could be responsible for their being sick. The conclusion is based on some previous event that is not substantial enough to warrant such conclusion. Hence it can be safely stated that the person has used the fallacious statement to prove his point. It cannot be accepted as a logical argument which will be universally

Multicultural Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words - 1

Multicultural Management - Essay Example artment in many areas has become accustomed to the challenges that are being posed by the diversity in the work place and as such there have been efforts to come up with ways of managing this diversity. The combination of work force demographics in the work place has been as result of increased globalization in business which has placed the management of cultural and background differences one of the leading agenda in modern times in many corporate organization. This has been due to increased heterogeneity in gender, race, ethnicity, and nationality due to mix up of people. (Vonslid, 2006) To the organization, this has an advantage of better and quicker decision making, higher creativity and innovation in the work, remarkable success in marketing in foreign communities and countries and also equal distribution of economic opportunities. However, if not well handled, it can lead to increased cost due to high turnover rates, conflicts due to interpersonal differences, and breakdown in communications. The hospitality industry is one of the industries that have a high mixture of people both in customers and in the work force. The diversity in the hospitality industry has been one of the challenges facing many firms in the industry since their survival is based on the quality of services that is offered to the customers. Diversity in the industry is also important due to the diverse customers that it serves. Hence a diverse workforce in the industry will help to serve diverse customers who are served in the industry. Managing this diverse workforce in the industry is poses a challenge in the industry’s human resource department. This paper will explore the strategies that can be used by the human resource department in the industry to successfully handle the diverse work force. The hospitality industry is one of the growing industry industries in the world. Increased globalization and increased outsourcing of businesses has been one of the driving forces in

Child care Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 2

Child care - Essay Example Michelle does not notice, her attention glued to the show while narrating to Michelle what is happening to the bear. She gets surprised when the baby shrieks and begins to cry. Yes. Betsy could have focused more on the baby she was caring for by really finding out why she suddenly made sounds when she was quiet all along. Observing her non-verbal behavior like following her gaze will help her understand what the baby is trying to communicate. Baby Michelle was trying to tell her caregiver that she needed her ball back. The fact that she was helpless in getting it, being unable to stand up on her own, much more go over her playpen and pick up the toy herself means she needed someone else to do it for her. Her caregiver misunderstood her cues, thinking the baby reacted to an adorable television character, thereby making the sounds. Baby got frustrated when her caregiver was not able to read her cues so she began to cry. Incident 2: Eleven month old Baby Troy heard some children laughing and playing outside his window. When he looked, he saw them playing ball. When his caregiver, Cynthia, walked near, Baby Troy said â€Å"Boh†, and started lifting up his arms while shifting his gaze from Cynthia to the children outside. Cynthia says, â€Å"Oh, you want a ball? Here you go!† Cynthia gives Troy his favorite red ball, but Troy shoved it away and continued to raise his arms to Cynthia. Cynthia picked up the ball and when she stood up, Baby Troy was upset as he began to cry. Observing Troy’s behavior more closely before he said â€Å"Boh† would have helped Cynthia understand his cues better. She failed to see Troy’s shifting gaze and his cue to be carried outside and automatically interpreted his verbalization to mean he wanted his ball. When Troy shoved the ball away and continued to raise his arms to her, Cynthia could have tried another response by picking him up and searching for more cues, abandoning the idea that Troy wanted his

Econ Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Econ - Essay Example The IMF was conceived in 1944 when representatives of 45 countries met at Bretton Woods, USA and agreed on the framework of IMF which came into formal existence in December 1945 (after World War II) with 29 members. The member countries agreed that the value of the US$ follow the gold prices and that the other member currencies be pegged to the US$ with some room allowed for corrections (but with the agreement of the IMF). This par value system was also known as the Bretton Woods system. In the 1960s, the US$ was seen as overvalued. As the US government started spending more especially due to the Vietnam War, the overvaluation of the US$ became even more of a burden for the US. Thus, in August 1971, then US President Richard Nixon announced that the US would temporarily suspend the US$ pegging to Gold. This led to a breakdown of the system and by March 1973, the major currencies were no longer pegged to the US$ and began to float against each other. Subsequently, the IMF has assumed the role of maintaining the stability and preventing crisis in the international monetary system.

Dominating the poem Essay Example for Free

Dominating the poem Essay Ode to Nightingale is an antithesis of life and death, with death very much dominating the poem (Keats suffered from tuberculosis, and his description of men suffering in Ode to a Nightingale could indicate that he himself was in great pain when he wrote the poem), whereas The Prelude describes a conflict between man and nature, and Ode to Autumn is simply admiring an aspect of nature. However, Keats and Wordsworth both allude to ideals expressed in the philosophical viewpoint Romanticism. Wordsworth thought that the individual could understand nature without society or civilisation, and this is the stance that he takes in The Prelude. The metaphor of a single person in a boat in the middle of a huge lake represents one person in isolation from society. The mountain that towers over the person in the boat represents the raw power of nature, so much more powerful than a mere human (a Romantic ideal is that nature comes first, while people and their thoughts and activities come second. Wordsworth takes it to extreme in The Prelude with his descriptive comparison of the huge peak, black and huge and the little boat. The imagery comes across very vividly in the poem, and man seems insignificant when compared with the huge and mighty forms, that do not live like living men.) Keats also expresses his idea of the power of nature, but from a different viewpoint. He does not see nature as raw, wild power that is a colossus compared with trivial humans. He instead regards nature as a friend in suffering (in Ode to a Nightingale: Now more than ever it seems rich to diewhile thou art pouring thy soul abroad) and as a thing with its own magic (Ode to Autumn: Where are the songs of Spring?Think not of them, thou hast thy music too) In Ode to a Nightingale Keats also sees the nightingale as a thing of immense spiritual power, something so powerful that it can trigger his imagination and send him into a fantasy world of verdurous glooms and winding mossy ways where he can forget his pain for a short while, even though afterwards he is forced to realise that his poetry cannot help him escape his pain permanently (the fancy cannot cheat so well as she is famd to do, deceiving elf.) This is another similarity which the two writers share: they both describe spiritual experiences that have happened to them. Wordsworth describes the effect that the view of the megalith mountain had on him (but after I had seen that spectacle, for many days, my brain worked with a dim and undetermined sense of unknown modes of being) and describes his feelings of solitude and blank desertion that were a trouble to his dreams. Keats uses a lot of very entrancing imagery (soft incense, embalmed darkness, pastoral eglantine, musky rose, full of dewy wine and murmurous haunt of flies all create a very clear picture of the fantasy world Keats has conjured up in his imagination, influenced by the song of the nightingale) and emotive language (the poem is full of exclamations such as Away!, Adieu! and Folorn! that seem almost like laments, especially in the case of thou wast not born for death, immortal Bird!) in Ode to a Nightingale, succeeding in drawing the reader into an bond with his thoughts where they can see, hear and smell everything that Keats is experiencing. This sort of empathy through poetry is very difficult to achieve, though Keats also manages it in Ode to Autumn through his descriptions of season of mists and mellow fruitfulness. Keats does not reflect much on his experience in Ode to a Nightingale, except only to wonder was it a vision, or a waking dream?Do I wake or sleep? However, this last question lets the reader themselves reflect on the meaning of the nightingale (though throughout the poem the references to easeful death and Darkling make it obvious that the bird symbolises death.) Keats and Wordsworth have widely different styles of writing. Their poems greatly differ in language form and structure, especially between Wordsworths simple language and Keats traditionally embellished diction. However, both poets have had troubled times in their lives, and their poems (Ode to a Nightingale and The Prelude) reflect this. They both portray their spiritual encounters with nature as having had a great effect on them, which is in keeping with the Romantic ideals of nature and spirituality. They also express their Romantic views of nature as a source of power, though they have different views on the type of power that nature possesses.

Literature Review And Analysis Paper Social Work Essay

Literature Review And Analysis Paper Social Work Essay Ageing is the universal phenomenon encountered by every human individual across the life span. All human beings expect for a healthy and happy old age but not many of them manage to get all those in reality. In this current century, world scenario is changing rapidly in the form of rise in elderly population than before. Many developing countries including Pakistan are affected by this global change. A report on global health and ageing shared recent statistics that in 2010, an estimated 524 million were aged 65 years or older making 8% of world population. It is interesting to note that by 2050 this number is expected to triple to about 1.5 billion signifying 16% of worlds population (WHO Report, 2011). Ironically, in developing countries, geriatric population between 2010 and 2050 is expected to increase more than 250 percent as compared to developed countries. Ali and Kaini (2003) add that this trend in ageing is the result of the demographic shift in fertility rates in combinatio n with mortality rates resulting in ageing of the population (p. 1). Having a glance at our national scenario, it is estimated that the proportion of population 60 years and above in Pakistan will increase from 5.8 percent in the year 2000 to 7.3 percent in 2025 and 12.4 percent in 2050 (United Nations, 2002). Reason for the selection of this topic I came up with my thesis topic as every year particularly on festivals such as Eid, different media channels broadcast programs where views of elderly who are residing in the shelter homes are taken. The eye catching moment was the pain and cry these ageing parents expressed, when their children neglected and dumped them in shelter homes, when they most need support in their last years of life. This event influenced me to work for my thesis in the field of geriatrics. Therefore, based on the significant global and national figures, increase in ageing will predispose the elders to suffer in chronic illnesses, disabilities and new disease patterns. Another, considerable growing fact is that, due to the shift of societal paradigm, elderly population will be the most vulnerable group requiring health attention currently and in the years ahead. Therefore, it is recommended that older adults should remain socially active in their later years (Bergstrom, Holmes Pecchioni, 2000). The findin gs from the proposed research contribution in this area particularly in Pakistani context will assist in filling the gap where elderly population can regenerate themselves without being isolated from social life, and can live with quality, dignity and free of violence in their empty nest days. Significance of the problem Many decades ago the concept of violence against women and children was objected throughout the world but researches in these areas have resulted in the protection and formation of laws for these groups. Likewise, elderly abuse is yet another novel and critical public health and social issue that need prompt attention. Infact, it is one of the most serious subject which is under reported nationally and internationally resulting in thousands of silent victims. Numerous studies are being conducted in the developed countries on the various aspects of the ageing population in order to ensure optimum quality in the later phase of life time. However, many of the South Asian countries including Pakistan are facing serious challenges of decreased economy, low savings, high inflation rates; financial benefits for few percentages of government employees, lack of health insurance coverage are making the life of this vulnerable group questionable. Apart from these encounters, elderly population are confronting with the decline of extended family system and the emergence of nuclear families (Jalal Younis, 2012). In Asian cultures, many of socio cultural practices are grounded on concept of extended family system. Old members of the family are taken care by the young generation and it is regarded as dishonorable if any elder lives alone or in nursing home. In addition to it, this transition has led to the decline in elder decision making power and position and to enjoy later years with dignity and self-worth. Due to this conversion the elderly are at risk, as the younger and more productive members of the family take over, marginalizing the elderly into positions of dependence both social and economic(Subzwari Azhar, 2010, p. 2). Another important change that has taken place in the last couple of years is that younger individuals are migrating for better employment opportunities leaving behind parents with no one to care for them, causing elderly to live alone or they are shifted to shelter homes. Sabzwari and Azhar (2010) supports that one in five patients at the tertiary care hospital in Karachi are elderly. It is estimated that at least 6-7 % of the elderly visiting geriatric clinics at the Aga Khan University Hospital Karachi are living alone with little assistance. Increase in life expectancy has led to substantial increase in aging population globally and it is predicted that the worlds elderly population will continue to increase with an estimated rate at 67 % residing in developing countries by the year 2020 (Karunakara Stevenson, 2012, Ageing population section, para. 1). In Pakistani context, 60 years is designated as the age of elderly. Jalal and Younis (2012) shares WHO report that: 5.6 % of Pakistans population was over 60 years of age, with a probability of doubling to 11 % by the year 2025. Pakistans life expectancy was increased from 45.6 years in 1950 to 66.8 years in 2008 with a probability of increasing to 72 years by 2023 (p. 2). Hence, the decline of popular extended family system and rise of career oriented families, and change in familial values compounded by substantial increase in ageing, subjects older population to maltreatment and this area requires immediate consideration. Jamuna (2003) rationalizes that a series of developments, such as urbanization, industrialization, and migration, and a growing sense of materialism and individualistic orientations have threatened the culture of yesteryear (p.129). One significant cause for underreporting of abuse in Asian cultures is compliance to the value of respect for their elders whereas western cultures sideline them. Research question Older people are left with countless problems in their later phase of life where these years are believed to live in respect, solemnity and self-worth with their married children and grandchildren. On the contrary, this age group has to spend their lives in isolation at home or in shelter homes due to neglect and cruel treatment by them. Although, these old homes are answer to most in need yet they still not provide a solution to majority of the population. Our culture despite its gradual transformation still adheres to the value of caring for their elderly at home (Subzwari Azhar, 2010). Elder abuse is the alarming public health issue present in both developed and developing countries. Very little information is available regarding the extent of maltreatment in elderly especially in developing countries, it is estimated that 4-6% of elderly people have experienced some form of maltreatment at home. (WHO fact sheet, 2011). However, older people are often afraid to report cases of ma ltreatment to family, friends, or to the authorities. There is no reliable data or research conducted in Pakistani context, where sufferings of these elderly populations living in nursing homes could be researched and addressed. Dildar, Saeed and Sharjeela (2012) mentions that elder abuse and neglect are difficult to quantify as these occur in the privacy of the home, institutions and under reported in our country (p. 662). Based on the above facts and literature I came up with the research question that, what are the experience and the perception of elderly people living in nursing home in Karachi, Pakistan? Literature search strategy Literature search was conducted in a systematic way by utilizing available electronic databases, in order to review and explore existing literature related to abuse of elderly population in nursing home. In order to detect relevant literature, two major databases, CINAHL plus with full text and PUBMED was used. Another search engine like Google scholar was also searched to find the relevant literature sources. These databases were searched for the time period between the year 2000 and 2012. Different key words or combination of key words along with the use of Boolean operators were used for all search engines, like elder abuse and nursing homes, elder maltreatment and nursing homes. A synonym for elder abuse like geriatric abuse and for nursing home like shelter home was typed on the search bar. Relevant articles were hunted when the key words were written in research title, abstract of review articles of all data bases. A separate search was carried out for identifying the available literature in Pakistan for this purpose the term Pakistan was added along with other key words to search relevant Pakistani sources. Reference lists of retrieved articles from these databases were also checked for relevant literature. Search from all data bases were narrowed down by the use search filters like year range, gender, age and language. For detail literature search and number of hits (See appendix A). Literature review analysis on elderly abuse in nursing homes Definition The subject of elder abuse began to receive recognition since 1970, and the first boom on elder abuse appeared in UK medical journals in 1975 as granny battering. It was identified by British Gerontologist and the first population based study was done in USA in 1988. International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (INPEA) defines elder abuse is a single or repeated act or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust which causes harm or distress to an older person (INPEA, 2002, p. 3). Age bracket for elderly is 60 years and above. Some predictions indicate that one million people turn 60 every month and 80 % of these are from the developing world (WHO/INPEA, 2002). All the susceptible victims of abuse who are 65 years or more largely depend on the funded institutions but if there is financial constraint then these vulnerable groups have to be confine to home (Paranitharan, Eidrisinghe William, 2009). There is considerable debate on the definition of elder abuse because some cultures foster certain behaviors that may be considered as abuse in different cultural context. In Australia, elder refers to older local people who have specific positions of power within native communities. It was recommended that elder abuse be replaced with senior abuse in an Australian context as it referred to original and senior population (Ryan, 2009). It can be argued that abuse occurs within a relationship where there is an expectation of trust, no matter different cultures gives different definitions on elder abuse. However McFerran (2009) asserts that research on domestic violence in elderly women, is based on unequal power relations and traditional devaluation of women, not on relationships based on trust (as cited in Ryan, 2009, Definition of elder abuse, para. 3). Therefore, irrespective of the type of abuse, it will definitely result in pointless miseries, pains and sorrows, and decrease quali ty of life of elderly. Types of elder abuse Elder abuse is categorized into five different types: physical abuse, psychological /emotional abuse, financial/material abuse, sexual abuse and neglect (WHO/INPEA, 2002). Most recent data from USA states that, there are about 570,000 cases of elder abuse reported each year, 55% of the cases suffer from neglect which is the most common form of elder maltreatment (Facts on elder abuse, 2012). Economic abuse is one of the most frequently reported forms of abuse, followed by neglect, psychological or emotional and finally physical abuse. Sexual abuse of elders is not reported as frequently as any other type of abuse (Ryan, 2009). Another dimension of elder maltreatment is that it is not restricted to home environment, risk is even leaving them in nursing homes, hospitals and long term care facilities. An empirical study in New Zealand reveals that psychological abuse (59%) is followed by material/financial (42%) and physical abuse (12%) were most frequently identified types of abuse. Sexual abuse occurred in 2% of reported cases (Gadit, 2009). Implications of the proposed research in nursing It is a challenging task for all health care providers to efficiently assess the elderly group so that abuse can be identified and reported for the immediate interventions. Proposed research on this subject will make people aware, that elder abuse will prevent older members from being favorable and positive members of the society. Furthermore, evidence based knowledge on this matter will assist in safeguarding and promoting welfare of the elderly clients. According to Lachs and Pillemer (1995) guidelines from the American Medical Association suggest that all older adults be asked by their physicians about family violence, even in the absence of symptoms potentially attributable to abuse or neglect (p. 438). A careful history taking and interviewing technique is crucial in identifying accurate information on the possible abuse. If the violence on elder is confirmed then priority is to ensure safety of the elderly person by separating from the perpetrator. In the western countries, bas ed on their cultural background, majority of the old age population resides in shelter homes. In Karachi, nursing homes are managed by private NGOs or religious organizations. The Catholic Church runs three old homes in Karachi, and people residing in these old homes pay a minimal fees, and rest are generated through the church (Subzwari Azhar, 2010). Some nursing homes are governed by religious communities functioning with the help of volunteer and donation support. Gadit (2009) identifies that Edhi Foundation is one glaring example of a service where abandoned elderly people are housed. These elderly people are avoided by their children under different grounds like poverty, illness among elderly and general intolerance (p. 3). Recommendation for the prevention of elder abuse A national policy for the promotion of better health of the elderly was designed in 1999, but implementation is yet to be seen. This policy involved the training of health care professionals. An equally important recommendation is the initiation of awareness programs among health care professionals on the subject and the formulation of assessment tools to detect abuse. Another suggestion is the workshops for nursing and medical graduates should be conducted to detect and manage elder abuse more effectively resulting in prompt treatment measures. Potential research on various aspects of care of elderly can urge in the development of policy at governmental level for the protection of geriatric population1. At national level, electronic and print media can play a key role in raising awareness on this subject. It can act as a medium for the provision of specially funded and recreational shelter homes, free health care facilities, and formation of legislative policies (Marshal, Benton Barzier, 2000). Research Methodology The research approach which would best fix on the research question would be qualitative in nature. I would like to go for Phenomenological method as it deals with the truth about reality built in peoples lived experience (Polit Beck, 2008, p. 227). This approach can be applicable on those concepts which are central to the life occurrences of the human being. The core goal is to completely understand persons lived experience and perceptions that it will generate. Inclusion Criteria and Exclusion criteria The inclusion criteria of this proposed research will be all elderly people with an age of 60 years and above in both the genders. Another standard would be all elderly population living in nursing homes in Karachi. The exclusion criteria of this planned study would be all elderly below 60 years of age. Conclusion Transition into old age is another experience which everyone has to encounter. Importance lies in the fact that to be old and live with self-respect, dignity and free from violence, neglect and maltreatment should be an important objective. Geriatric has always been a neglected area, but due to an increase in ageing population, challenge to meet the needs of the elderly is extremely crucial. Elder abuse occurs as a result of strained intergenerational relationship along with the gradual cultural transformations. This critical and under reported phenomenon needs prompt attention by the researchers and government in order to enhance quality of life in their remaining years of life.

Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis Case Studies

Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis Case Studies The main aim of this essay is to understand different aspects of medical conditions ranging from pathophysiology, symptoms, risk factors, and the management of two case studies. The first case study deals with osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. The second case deals with peptic ulcers and gastric esophageal reflux disease. To address both patients’ medical condition, knowing the condition’s pathophysiology is quintessential. Osteoarthritis is a disease of the joints, which affects the slippery tissue called cartilage which covers the joints (Kapoor, Martel-Pelletier, Lajeunesse, Pelletier Fahmi, 2010). The cartilage in healthy individuals ensures smooth sliding of bones over each other and better shock absorbance. In osteoarthritic patients, wearing of the top layer of cartilage leads to rubbing of bones against one another (Swift, 2012). This causes inflammation of the joint evident from swelling, pain and limited joint activity as time progresses (Kapoor et al, 2010). Excessive rubbing leads to gradual decrease in bone mass with loss in shape, bone spurs growing at edges of joints and a more painful condition manifested by floating of broken bones at joints in joint spaces (Swift, 2012). Osteoporosis on the other hand is marked by an imbalance between bone resorption and bone formation causing loss of skeletal mass (Huether McCance, 2012). In the normal physiological condition, bone resorption and formation are always in balance, thus maintaining the bone strength and mass. Any disorder in these two processes such as increased resorption or decreased formation can lead to osteoporosis (Huether McCance, 2012). In the above case Claire reported a fall and trauma which is a common symptom in an osteoporosis case. The common modifiable risk factors associated with osteoporosis are vitamin D and calcium deficiency (Wickham, 2011). Similarly cola, alcohol intake and smoking are three modifiable factors which can increase the chances or severity of the disease. Excessive alcohol or cola drinks intake leads to secondary osteoporosis by affecting bone formation, absorption of calcium and vitamin D, and disorder in calcium regulating hormone (Metcalfe, 2008). Estrogen deficiency can lead to post menopause condition where bone resorption is faster than bone formation (Marini Brandi, 2010). Lack of physical activity can make Claire prone to osteoporosis (Metcalfe, 2008). Along with the above mentioned modifiable factors there are certain non-modifiable factors on which the control is less. Aging is the first factor which can lead to such disease (Barreiro, Acosta, Marquez, Rodriguez, Arriaga, 2013). In ageing, the supply of osteoblasts decreases against the demand of the body. Similarly genetic predisposition and epigenetic are non-modifiable factors, the mother’s health status during pregnancy, child birth weight and weight at 1 year are predictive of bone mass till 70 years in female (Marini Brandi, 2010). The bone diseases like rheumatoid arthritis can also leads to osteoporosis (Huether McCance, 2012). Experiencing pain may be the first factor Claire experiences with her osteoarthritis (Swift, 2012). The drying of synovial fluid leads to stiffness of joints which may have been felt by Claire in her hip and knee joints (Swift, 2012). The constant presence of stiffness may lead to muscle weakness in that area. The weakening of muscles, drying of fluid, and inflammation combined effect may restrict her movements such as bending, flexing and extending of joints (Goldring Otero, 2011). Osteoporosis often goes unnoticed until a fracture occurs (Brown, 2009). Claire was diagnosed with osteoporosis thus she may have experienced certain clinical manifestations which are common in osteoporosis. Since Claire has sustained fractures in her left colle’s and right tibia/fibula she may experience acute pain during movement of her hands and legs (Brown, 2009). The fractures she received due to osteoporosis may limit her movement and affect the weight bearing capacity of her legs (Brown, 2009). With constant loss of bone at area of fractures, Claire may find it hard to stand erect and may stand in a stoop posture. Loss of height may occur due to increased bone loss (Brown, 2009). Post-operative nursing management of Claire involves a number of interventions to address the issues faced by Claire. In osteoarthritis and osteoporosis, the most common symptom experienced by patient is pain (Swift, 2012). Thus, the nurse’s interventions must be to reduce the pain, by doing a pain assessment through a recommended scale. The pain must be measured for areas affected, severity and Claire’s reporting of pain. The PRN medications must be administered to Claire as per prescription and timing must be noted for each medication and dose (Colon, 2012). The nurse should take care of any of Claire’s wounds through proper wound management interventions, in order to prevent inflammation and infection (Brown, 2009). Possibilities, of the fracture would mean Claire may stay in bed for a prolonged period, thus chances of having pressure ulcer increases. The same would apply for deep vein thrombosis which nurses can prevent by applying TED stockings (Brown, 2009) . Nurses must change her position every 2 hours and a pillow can be provided at pressure areas to Claire. Nutrients, fluid and diet management should be prepared with consultation with a dietician or a nutritionist (Brown, 2009). Physiotherapist interventions are required to assist her with walking and simultaneously the neurovascular assessment must be assessed by nurses to prevent neurovascular degeneration (colon, 2012). The immediate nursing interventions for Claire would be a primary assessment for immediate danger. The nurse should take a physical assessment on Claire, including assessing her airway patency and circulation. A pain assessment is essential as it provides the only way to ensure that management methods are appropriate and effective (Elliott Coventry, 2012). The nurse should carry out a pain assessment on Claire using the â€Å"PQRST† model. This type of pain assessment gives a detailed account of pain helping nurses to administer pain reduction medications keeping in mind the allergic reactions and six rights (Elliott Coventry, 2012). The nurse should document when analgesia was administered to Claire so other care team members will have a clear understanding of Claire’s pain (Brown, 2009). Claire must be assessed often for her presence of pain and she must be treated promptly and effectively (Elliott Coventry, 2012). A number of factors play an important role in eliciting complications (early and later) post fracture surgery. Complications which may be associated with Claire’s fracture surgery are; during surgery the skin and soft tissues are cut down to reach to the bones, thus chances of bacterial infections exist which can lead to fatal situations if not prevented properly (Brown, 2009). Another serious complication of fracture is compartment syndrome where it causes decreased capillary perfusion below the level necessary for tissue viability (Brown, 2009). Presence of other co morbidities can prolong the recovery stage. Venous thrombosis can also lead to a complication after fracture (Brown, 2009). Precipitating factor is venous stasis which can be caused by incorrectly applied casts to Claire (Brown, 2009). Another contributing factor for the fracture complication on Claire if not treated properly would be fat embolism syndrome where presence of systemic fat globules is distributed in to tissues and organs after a traumatic skeletal injury (Brown, 2009). Case study 2 Pathophysiology of gastro esophageal reflux disease is when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is attached to the stomach in the form of a plumbing circuit (Huether McCance, 2012). Any structural changes occurring in between the stomach and esophageal barrier associated with abnormal relaxation of LES can lead to gastro esophageal reflux disease (Huether McCance, 2012). Peptic ulcers occur with excess secretion of hydrochloric acid and pepsin, this impairs the balance between gastric luminal factors and the action of the gastric mucosal barrier, (Huether McCance, 2012). The main functions of gastric mucosal barrier are; secretion of bicarbonate, defense of epithelial cells and mucosal blood flow. With increased secretion of acid, the mucosal barriers are affected and thus histamine is released. This activates the parietal cells to release more acids causing ulcers (Huether McCance, 2012). A clinical manifestation of peptic ulcers and gastro esophageal disease is heart burn, caused by acid reflux thus causing an inflamed esophagus (Huether McCance, 2012). Regurgitation occurs due to the loss of the mechanical barrier between the stomach and esophagus and is aggravated by gastric acid reflux. Justin may experience upper abdominal pain within an hour of eating meals (Huether McCance, 2012). Due to excessive diarrhea, skin may get irritated, red and swollen. The stool with blood in it may be black and have an offensive smell due to oxidation of hemoglobin (Huether McCance, 2012). The dysphagia experienced by Justin could be due intake of alcohol or acid containing food which leads to esophageal spasms (Huether McCance, 2012). Due to excessive fluid loss, nurses may have noted that Justin presented as dehydrated. One common cause of Justin’s peptic ulcer could be his lifestyle of takeaway meals such as fried food, eating spicy and junk foods which has been hypothesized as a causal factor for ulceration (Huether McCance, 2012). Another major cause could be infection of the gastric and duodenal mucosa with Helicobacter pylori and regular use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), especially those that are classified as COX-1 inhibitors (Huether McCance, 2012). In Justin’s case, he has been buying over the counter medications for his chronic back pain which may increase the risk factor of gastric ulceration. The other associated factor would be alcohol consumption (Huether McCance, 2012). The medications commonly used to treat peptic ulcers are acid suppressor’s antacids such as ranitidine and famotidine; they form a foam barrier between the stomach and esophagus thus preventing acid reflux (Brown, 2009). Similarly the H2 antagonists help in reducing the acid secretion in the stomach leading to healing of ulcers (Brown, 2009). Proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole are effective in decreasing acid secretion from the stomach. PPIs are used in combination with antibiotics to treat ulcers caused by H. pylori (Brown, 2009). Bowel preparation is the artificial method of removal of faeces from the colon in order to prepare Justin for any type of surgical procedure such as colonoscopy. The colons may have indigested food and fecal matters attached to them (Beck, 2010). The chances of infection increases if any surgical procedures are carried out nearby the colon area. Based upon Justin’s bowel movement patterns and stool characteristics he must be advised to go for a colon cleansing solution drink or laxative drink (Beck, 2010). This procedure can be done the day before scopes or some days before depending upon Justin’s condition. Enemas can also be administered based upon surgeons and specialists prescription. During the bowel preparation, nurses must keep in mind that Justin’s privacy must be maintained and hospital’s policies and procedures are followed. Documentation must be written in clear hand writing for other team members to read about Justin’s treatment (Blair Smith, 2012). Peptic ulcers are characterized by tarry and bloody stools due to ulcerations in gastrointestinal tract. Excessive blood loss can be fatal for Justin leading to unconsciousness and other complications, thus it is advised for nurses to check the amount of blood and blood type (clots) (Brown, 2009). This can help to determine the severity of the disease and further diagnosis. The nurse should help Justin to return to his bed as heavy loss of blood leads to fluid deficiency and lowering of blood pressure. Justin’s vital signs must be assessed and fluids must be provided to manage the deficiency (Brown, 2009). While checking Justin’s abdomen for firmness, tenderness and pain, curtains must be pulled to maintained Justin’s privacy. The findings must be documented and reported to the ward in charge doctor for further processing (Blair Smith, 2012). Post colonoscopy the nurse should manage Justin’s pain through an assessment of pain, using a severity scale on a specified area and administering PRN medications (Brown, 2009). In order to recover from injury caused by his condition and address other complications associated with the disease, Justin’s nutritional status and fluid balance should be maintained (Brown, 2009). Due to heavy blood loss and pain, the patient may feel frustrated and anxiety symptoms may develop. The nurse should calm Justin, establish effective communication and allow him to express his feelings (Brown, 2009). In conclusion, the conditions such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis can be disastrous to Claire as it can affect the quality of her life to a high degree. The case remains the same for peptic ulcer and gastro oesophageal disease and can affect the eating habits of Justin. Thus, it is important to address both patient’s pain level and other complications in order for them to be comfortable. The disease process can be controlled through nursing interventions along with other medical interventions such as surgery and pharmacological management. It is essential for nurses to know pathophysiology of conditions of both cases described above in order to best manage both patients’ issues.

Minority Representation :: essays papers

Minority Representation The issue of minority representation in special education came into the forefront for educators, parents and politicians during the mid 1990’s. In 1992, Black students accounted for 16 percent of the total U.S. student population, but represented 32 percent of students in programs for mild mental retardation, 29 percent in programs for moderate mental retardation, and 24 percent in programs for serious emotional disturbance (Robertson, Kushner, Starks, & Dreschler, 1994). This overrepresentation of Black and other minority students in special education is an ongoing national problem. This problem will be addressed according to the following criteria regarding minority representation in special education. The first issue where minority students in special education are concerned is that minority students may be unserved or receive services that do not meet their needs. Another issue that will be discussed is that some minority students may be misclassified or inappropriately labeled especially in the area of mental retardation and serious emotional disturbance. The final issue that will be discussed is the actual placement of minority students in special education programs may be a form of discrimination. The purpose of this paper is to inform and expand upon minority overrepresentation and the needs of minority students. Minority students may be unserved or receive services that do not meet their needs. Testing constraints such as high incidence of ethnic or linguistic minorities and low socio-economic status can lead to minority students not receiving services that meet their needs. Research shows that socio-political factors such as social deviance variables (eg. school suspension and corporal punishment) and school violence also lead to minority students being unserved in special education. Identification and placement practices have caused problems with identification because of the vagueness of the criteria for elegibility (Artiles, Aguirre-Munoz, Abedi, 1998). Congress has found that although minority students are increasing in number in schools, many minority students are not receiving a free, appropriate public education. Students who are at a high risk of failure are those who live in urban and high poverty environments because they have been in appropriately identified and placed or not placed at all in special education.

The Marshall Plan Essay -- George C. Marshall The Marshall Plan Essays

The Marshall Plan First and foremost, a great deal of Europe’s success would not have happened without its initial aid from the United States. After helping destroy so much of the continent, the U.S. pumped billions and billions of dollars back into the European economy through The Marshall Plan. It was named after Secretary of State George C. Marshall, who said â€Å"The world of suffering people looks to us for leadership. Their thoughts, however, are not concentrated alone on this problem. They have more immediate and terribly pressing concerns where the mouthful of food will come from, where they will find shelter tonight, and where they will find warmth. Along with the great problem of maintaining the peace we must solve the problem of the pittance of food, of clothing and coal and homes. Neither of these problems can be solved alone. (DeLong)† In the first two post-World War II years the U.S. contributed through this plan, about four billion dollars a year to relief and reconstruction. The Marshall Plan continued these flows at comparable rates and was a multi-year commitment. From 1948 to 1951, the U.S. contributed $13.2 billion to European recovery. $3.2 billion went to the United Kingdom, $2.7 billion to France, $1.5 billion to Italy, and $1.4 billion to the Western-occupied zones of Germany (DeLong). An astounding $15.5 billion had been provided to Europe before the Marshall plan was enacted (Wegs, 66). The availability of Marshall Plan aid gave European countries a pool of resources that could be used to cushion the wealth losses sustained in restructuring. Countries that received large amounts of money from the Marshall Plan invested more. Countries could buy the amounts of coal, cotton and petroleum needed (all of these were in short supply) when needed because of Marshall Plan aid. Great Britain used the Marsh all Plan aid to retire public debt (DeLong). The Marshall Plan did have strings attached however. Countries had to agree to balance government budgets, restore internal financial stability, and stabilize exchange rates at realistic levels. Marshall plan aid was available only if Europe was committed to the "mixed economy" with the market playing a large part in the mix (DeLong). On their own, some countries were able to rebuild or repair slightly damaged factories and warehouses. Contrary to popular belief, factories... ...re slow to get into the automobile production game. They refused to merge with other companies, instead vying to produce many kinds of automobiles, none of which got a great deal of market share. None until the Mini came along, breaking from old traditional large British cars, creating a new craze (Wegs, 77-78). Not all was utopian forever in Europe though. All good things generally come to an end, and in the 1970s, the economy began to flounder. But for nearly twenty years, the western portion of Europe rebounded from nothingness, surged in no time, flourished for many years, became a major player in the economic world once again, and truly rose like a phoenix from the ashes of war. Works Cited DeLong, J. Bradford, The Economic History of the Twentieth Century: Slouching Towards Utopia? (University of California at Berkely and NBER: http://www.j-bradford-delong.net/TCEH/Slouch_Present19.html , 1997) . Kindleberger, Charles P., â€Å"The One and Only Marshall Plan,† National Interest, Vol. 11, 113-115. Wegs, J. Robert and Ladrech, Robert, Europe Since 1945: A Concise History, 4th ed. (Boston: St. Martin’s Press, Inc., 1996) 3, 12, 45-47, 65-79.

Air Canada

A recent review of any business magazine will often reveal that the secret to the success of many companies lies in their ability to not only generate profit for their stockholders but also in being able to improve the lives of their employees.Over the years, more and more companies are investing in the development of their human resources departments in the hopes of taking advantage of this trend.There are some companies, however, who have long taken advantage of this by making sure that not only are their employees well motivated, driven and well compensated but that these factors show well in the customer service that is provided.   One of these companies is Air Canada.As Canada’s largest and oldest airline, this company has a rich history as both an outstanding employer and airline.   Founded in 1937, Air Canada has grown immensely since then is now the world’s 11th largest passenger airline in relation to fleet size (Milton 2005).The flag carrier for Canada, Ai r Canada, has consistently held the record for having the best service in the world and this was affirmed on January 19, 2007 when it received the award for Best Airline in North America (Milton 2005).This founding member of the Star Alliance has time and again prevailed over the challenges and tests that the growing aviation market has presented over the years (Milton 2005).   This is a testament to the good management practices and upstanding record that this company has developed in its 70 year history.Air Canada has always emphasized that Flight Attendants are ambassadors of the customer experience onboard each Air Canada flight (Milton 2005).Air Canada has also prided itself in the fact that the flight attendants of Air Canada play many roles such as safety professional, caregiver and service provider.   These are the qualities which set Air Canada flight attendants apart from any other flight attendants from other airlines (Milton 2005).The fact that they are considered as Ambassadors of the customer experience does more than just add a dignified label to flight attendants but rather emphasizes the fact that customer experience also comes first aboard any Air Canada flight.Perks and salary not included, Air Canada also differs from other airlines in that the employee advancement program offers a more stable future than others.Air Canada prides itself in improving the quality of all in its employ including Flight Attendants (Milton 2005).   These are the reasons why Air Canada is far superior to other airlines for anyone wanting to pursue a career as a flight attendant.On a personal level, I feel that I have developed the skills to become an Air Canada flight attendant because I am a hard working and driven individual.   All my past working experiences have equipped me to dealing with all sorts of people.   Being the frontline at a Pizza Hut is not exactly a dream job for most people.Yet for some reason I found that it was in this type of enviro nment that I was able to thrive and flourish.   The going gets tough when the people start coming in at rush hour.   To make matters worse, no other people in the world are more irritable than hungry people.   I also pay close attention to detail and make sure that I get things done.The job gets done faster and more efficiently as and when the objectives are clear, the strategies acceptable, and the resources are available such as in this company. My language proficiencies are also quite excellent as I am fluent in both English and Spanish.I am very methodical with my work.   I take charge and own up to my responsibilities.   With regard to co-workers and subordinates, I am very demanding, meticulous but I also believe that I am fair and considerate.   These character traits and abilities are the main reason why I believe that I have the necessary skills to become an Air Canada flight attendant.The rich history that Air Canada has had in the aviation industry is truly so mething to behold.   To be voted the best Airline in North America is no easy feat and I am quite sure that the outstanding performance of the flight attendants had much to do with that fact.As such, to be part of that elite core of flight attendants who have made a mark in the aviation industry, would constitute the fulfillment of one of my career goals.References:Milton, Robert (2005) Straight from the top; the truth about Air Canada Greystone Books, [c]2004 266 p.

Christmas Celebration Essay

As Christmas arrives, instead of just opening presents, my family celebrates it by throwing a fun and exciting party. The events we plan are way to thrilling than any ordinary Christmas celebration because it’s our family’s tradition. For example, each year we make American style food and Vietnamese food, open presents under the Christmas tree, eat at the dining table, and sing! Most of my family members could not control their excitement and have broken one of the family’s traditions of opening presents by age. While we do celebrate Christmas like any other family does, we tend to celebrate it differently each year to change it up. Opening presents under the Christmas tree first, helps organize everything from causing chaos. Most of the time it’s our last event because it’s worth the wait, but most of us can’t help and take a peek at ours first. My family open presents uniquely different than other families because we wait for our turns. Our family has a tradition of opening of opening presents from youngest to oldest. We have been following this tradition for as long as I can remember. While, waiting, it’s hard for me to watch because I get extremely impatient, I’m always at the couch watching TV. Next, we heard over to the mall Christmas tree and take a Chinese red envelope filled with money. The envelope contains bills that vary from $1,$5,$10,$20 and $50. This is the most exciting part after opening presents because who wouldn’t want to test out their luck? I have the worst luck when it comes to picking an envelope off the tree. Every year, I always get $1 bills or $5 bills! This changed last year, when I hit the jackpot and won $50! Overall everyone not only receive presents, but goes home with money in their pockets. After opening presents and selecting our red envelopes off the tree, we take family pictures. The first picture is always serious because it has to be perfect. My cousin Michael, and I try our best to hold in our laugher, but we never successfully do. If the first shot isn’t perfect or if we joke around, then we all have to stand there until a perfect picture has been taken. After that we change into our Christmas sweaters and take silly photos. Nobody ever wants to see just serious Christmas photos in the family scrapbook! We take silly pictures to make it a fun and funny experience. Next we head over to the dining table to eat as much food as our hearts desire! Last, we brace ourselves again, for the serious karaoke competition! This is my favorite part of the day because it’s always funny to watch people mess up the lyrics. Each year, the competition gets more and more competitive; people take it way too seriously! My aunt thinks she is better than everyone else, but to our ears, that isn’t true. My aunts and uncles always fight over to see whose turn it is to go next because they love to have fun and show off their skills. When it’s my turn to sing, I remain calm and try my best to get a good score. Singing in chorus in high school for two years really pays off! Anyway, we all compare our scores at the end of the competition to see who wins a gift card to any store of their choice. The thing is, not everyone goes home empty – handed. Everyone wins a gift card too, but those don’t hold as much money as the grand prize. My family’s Christmas celebrations are the best! It’s great to see everyone having fun for once, rather than arguing about problems! I love the aura that everyone gives off with the smiles and laughter in the atmosphere! It’s the only time of the year where everyone can relax without causing any uproar. Overall, my Christmas celebrations are fun moments that I look forward to each year.

Home Cooked vs. Fast Food

Benjamin Blackburn Blackburn1 Professor Barnes English 111-16 11/19/2012 Home cooked: Health over Value Instead of putting money towards car or house payments, several thousands of dollars are spent on food purchased away from home in the average American family. The numbers are even more increasing to single status Americans. Don’t get me wrong, I like fast food, but it doesn’t come close to a home cooked meal.Home cooked meals are comfort foods that help a family bond. Whether it is a recipe passed down for generations, or culinary discovery made inventive genius, nothing beats a good home cooked meal with family. The main temptation to indulge in fast food is its convenience, especially during a busy work day or long road trips. With less prepare time, fast food chooses frozen foods that are shipped to location. Although there are food chains who advertise â€Å"fresh, never frozen†, these companies are not purchasing these â€Å"fresh† products from a local, reputable supplier.Adding to fast foods convenience, these chains have to take short cuts to deliver hot food, fast! Home cooked meals may not have a convenient drive-thru, but prepping fresh meats and vegetables the night before can alleviate long prep and cooking times. We all know that fast food sales for a reasonable price. Even when there is an increase in economy, they tend to remain at those prices in order to entice the customer. When some time Blackburn 2 passes, and things seem normal in economy, then they will increase prices slightly.It is my belief that fast food wants Americans to know they are suffering with them, therefore winning the people’s choice. Happy customers make for good business, with fewer complaints. Although home cooked meals seem much more expensive than McDonalds, health plays a bigger part. Having and growing a personal garden can cut these prices down to fractions that not even fast food can compare to, not to mention more nutritious. Belief in the value for a buck is not reason enough to set aside nutritional values.Most families put their trust in Betty Crocker and Stouffers from local grocery stores. These â€Å"convenience foods† are cheap alternatives to fast food but contain as much sugar, sodium, and saturated fat as eating out. Using fresh ingredients, you are more able to control the amount of harmful ingredients used in cooking. As a matter of opinion, you know what is being put in your meals. When looking at fast food from a health stand point, salads from McDonalds contain as many calories as their best-selling Big Mac when you add salad dressing.Although fast food offers health alternatives, they are not all as healthy as they seem. With America’s increase of obesity each year, home cooking is more nutritious and clean. Plus, the fact that you are able to spend quality time with family and friends. Coming from a single parent home, I was able to do homework at the kitchen table and as my mother helped me, she would also keep a close eye on the stove while preparing meals for me and my sister. Cooking is bonding time!Eating out felt like vacations when I was growing up. It was a reward for a tough week at school. We as Americans have become lazy, and are taking the easy way out far too often. Packing a healthy snack consisting of fruits and sandwiches made at home can Blackburn 3 prevent the craving for fast food while on a road trip. The same can also be applied to working lives. Home cooked meals are not just the healthy choice, they are the better choice.

How to Asses Mental Illness

The ability for patients to access mental health services these days are more wide ranging than ever before. This is in part due to the fact that the realm of mental health, once simply governed by physicians, is now peopled by staff of all different types and disciplines. In addition, many mental health professionals are now multiply credentialed, so it is not impossible to see a mental health professional who is all at once a family and marital therapist, a chemical dependency practitioner and a social worker. All these elements only serve to improve the ability of patients/clients to receive quality mental health services, whether it be in a large institutional setting, a community mental health center or in a private clinical office. But what are the different types of mental health professionals who are trained in the identification and treatment of patients with mental health issues? There are many, but for the matter of clarity and brevity, we will focus on just three. Licensed clinical social workers are one type of mental health professional who may be assigned a clinical case. These are individuals who have received graduate level training in the assessment and management of patients with mental illness. They may choose to specialize in a certain type of therapy, such as marital or family therapy or they may provide a more general practice. Clinical social workers are also found in the hospital setting, whether for psychiatric patients or medical patients and are experts in arranging for social services and referral to assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and other post hospitalization care. Advanced registry nurse practitioners are one of the newer types of clinicians in the mental health field. These are nurses who have taken graduate level education which allows them to perform diagnosis and treatment for patients. Many nurse practitioners (also called ARNPs) can prescribe medications for their patients, depending on the laws of the states where they live. ARNPs are also unique in that they can open up clinical practices of their own without having to work under the auspices or licensure of a practicing physician. ARNPs provide medication and counseling services, as well as crisis intervention services. ARNPs are also found frequently in both the inpatient and outpatient settings. Another type of professional who may diagnose and treat a patient with mental health issues is a clinical psychologist. These are men and women who receive post-graduate education and receive a doctorate in psychology. Psychologists are often called â€Å"doctor† but the difference is that they are not allowed to prescribe medications. Psychologists are multifaceted, and are able to diagnose and treat patients with mental health issues, as well as perform and interpret psychological testing to held aid in the diagnosis of patients with personality or learning disorders. Psychologists are usually utilized in the outpatient setting, but it is not unheard of for them to work on an inpatient mental health unit as well. While all these different clinical backgrounds are able to assess patients for the presence of mental illness, the issues which they must consider are the same from patient to patient. Whether the patient is a self-referral, court mandated or identified by a family member, before a true clinical diagnosis can be made, a thorough mental health assessment must be made. This mental health assessment includes several key issues which must be answered. First, the clinician must know what the problem is which brought the patient in for evaluation in the first place. Does the patient feel sad, or depressed, or anxious? To what degree does the mood problem affect the patient†s day to day life? Are they able to go on about their daily business, or are they incapable of holding a job or caring for themselves or their families, because of the severity of the illness. Does the patient actually perceive there is a problem, or has the patient been referred by a medical provider, family member, or friend? The high coincidence of mental health problems and substance abuse makes it necessary for the mental health professional to assess if there is any drug or alcohol abuse issues here. How long has the patient had these symptoms, and are they getting worse, better, or staying the same. A family history is also important, especially as it pertains to issues of mental illness within the family, or a history of physical/sexual or emotional abuse. Above all, when any mental health professional is assessing a patient for mental illness, he or she must assess if the patient has any thoughts of hurting himself or anyone else. This is almost the most important question to be asked of any patient who is being assessed for mental health problems, and when answered in the positive, must be dealt with immediately. As we are discussing suicidal ideation, it is important for any clinician to understand who is at the greatest risk of self harm. There is a disparity in the rates of suicide between men and women, in that it is more likely for a woman to express thoughts of suicide and it is more likely for a man to actually commit suicide. In fact, men over age 45 are more than four times more likely than women to kill themselves as women in the same age (National Patient Safety Agency, 2001). An unemployed man is two to three times more likely to commit suicide. Suicide is also believed to account for 20 percent of all death in young people aged 15-24 and is second only to accidental death. The prevalence of substance abuse in this age group tends to be a contributing factor to suicide rates. The additional issues of academic pressure and relationship problems, as well as possible history of physical and sexual abuse are other risk factors. Interestingly, research has also shown that youngsters who know someone who commits suicide are more likely to commit suicide (Shaffi, et. al. 1985). While issues of race and likelihood to commit suicide have been studied, the pattern changes over geographic distribution. A study done in 1993 by Briget seemed to indicate that gay men and lesbians had higher rate of suicide and attempted suicide than the general population. And, as previously mentioned, research has shown that substance abuse is a significant risk factor for suicide and suicide attempts. One study estimated that among people who abuse drugs, the risk of suicide is twenty times greater than that of the general population (Faulkner, 1997) Any discussion about mental health in the 21st Century is sure to bring some in some element of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, commonly known as HIPAA. HIPAA is a federal health benefits law passed in 1996, effective July 1, 1997, which among other things, restricts pre-existing condition exclusion periods to ensure portability of health-care coverage between plans, group and individual; requires guaranteed issue and renewal of insurance coverage; prohibits plans from charging individuals higher premiums, co-payments, and/or deductibles based on health status. It also places strict limits on the type and amount of information which can be released about patients, and to whom the information can be given, and in what manner. While the privacy of patient care information is important, HIPAA can be a stumbling block to the care of patients. For example, should the patient refuse that any collateral information be obtained about his case from a family member or friend, the mental health professional is prohibited by law from making any contact with this person, even if the collateral information could be of help in the care and diagnosis of the patient. In addition, it makes it almost impossible for family members to make appointments or even ascertain that patients are getting care. Health care providers are given leeway in one manner, in that should a mental health patient make what is felt to be a credible threat against another person, the healthcare provider is then able to provide information about the threat to the person in the broadest possible terms, known as a â€Å"duty to warn†. Usually now, before a mental health professional takes on a case, he or she will have the patient sign a document explaining the patient†s rights and the clinician†s responsibilities under HIPAA. In this document, the clinician outlines most common reasons for which the clinician may have to release information about the patient†s care, such as coordinating care with another provider or even obtaining coverage information from the insurer. The patient is also generally advised that he or she may revoke all authorization at any time, but in turn the clinician may choose to discontinue treatment. In this way, both parties are protected. It should be noted, however, that HIPAA restrictions do not apply in cases where abuse is suspected, for clinical health oversight activities, for judicial reasons if evaluations are court ordered, and in cases where the care involves a workman†s compensation issue. The clinician must also provide to the patient a name and number of a person to who concerns about privacy violation may be addressed, and if all else fails, complaints may be made to the Department of Health and Human Services, the federal agency which oversees HIPAA. But should a mental health professional be incautious about the kind of information he or she chooses to release, then he or she may find that they are subject to high fines, sanctions from federally funded agencies and loss of clinical privilege. To me, HIPAA seems like the extreme end of the pendulum, and does little to take into account common sense. I believe that in the future, different legislation will be made to modify the tone of HIPAA and allow a bit of clinical common sense to be used as well. Until that time, mental health practitioners will have to tread lightly and practice with care, keeping in mind at all times the needs of the patient and the rule of the law. So in summary, there are many kinds of mental health professionals, of all different backgrounds and disciplines. It would not be difficult to find a therapist or other mental health professional that would be able to help a client with his or her problems. All are highly qualified. All receive excellent training, and the high degree of diversity allows the mental health patient to almost have a consumer attitude when shopping for mental health care. No matter what kind of practitioner a patient chooses, the patient should be sure that he or she has chosen one who is well versed in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. New laws put into affect do much to protect the rights of the patient, but in some ways can tie the hands of the clinical provider. But ultimately, rules are in place to protect both the patient and the practitioner.