Browsing Faculty of Health Sciences by Title
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Cainelli, F.; Vallone, A.; Tanko, M. N.; Vento, S. (Elsevier, http://www.elsevier.com, NaN, 2010)[more][less]
Abstract: Lymphadenopathy was identified as an essential feature of AIDS soon after its appearance and before the identification of HIV as its cause.¹ However, lymphadenopathy has not subsequently received much attention. Recently, two studies have allowed lymph nodes to regain centre stage. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/582 Files in this item: 1
Lymph nodes and pathogenesis.pdf (355.1Kb) -
Mogobe, K.D.; Tshiamo, W.; Bowelo, M. (Reproductive Health Matters. www.rhmjournal.org.uk, NaN, 2007)[more][less]
Abstract: This paper describes the maternity monitoring system in Botswana, developed in 1998, and the main methods used: maternal death and morbidity reviews at service delivery level, analysis by the National Maternal Mortality Audit Committee of data from the reviews as reported on two forms, perinatal reviews and surveys using process indicators. We carried out a study of these findings to examine whether the system was working well. Surveys using process indicators in 2001 and 2006 were analysed. Other data examined were from 2004–2006 and early 2007. The Maternal Death Notification Form was found to be comprehensive but not all health facilities were submitting them and some gave incomplete information. In 2001, 70% of pregnant women attended antenatal care but access to emergency obstetric care was uneven. In 2006, 28 facilities with maternity services surveyed were providing 24-hour delivery care, but laboratory, theatre and blood supplies were more limited, and only 50% of doctors and 67% of midwives had life-saving skills. Antibiotics were widely available, but there were shortages of magnesium sulphate, diazepam, oxytocics and manual vacuum aspiration kits. Recommendations for improvements have been made, training for skilled attendants is ongoing and a medical school has just opened at the University of Botswana. A2007 Reproductive Health Matters. All rights reserved. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/541 Files in this item: 1
Monitoring maternity.pdf (1.714Mb) -
Simbiri, K.O.; Murakami, M.; Feldman, M.; Steenhoff, A.P.; Nkomazana, O.; Bisson, G.; Robertson, E.S. (BioMed Central Ltd. www.infectagentscancer.com/content/5/1/6, NaN, 2010)[more][less]
Abstract: Background: Ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN) is a rare cancer that has increased in incidence with the HIV pandemic in Africa. The underlying cause of this cancer in HIV-infected patients from Botswana is not well defined. Results: Tissues were obtained from 28 OSSN and 8 pterygia patients. The tissues analyzed from OSSN patients were 83% positive for EBV, 75% were HPV positive, 70% were KSHV positive, 75% were HSV-1/2 positive, and 61% were CMV positive by PCR. Tissues from pterygium patients were 88% positive for EBV, 75% were HPV positive, 50% were KSHV positive, and 60% were CMV positive. None of the patients were JC or BK positive. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry analyses further identified HPV, EBV, and KSHV in a subset of the tissue samples. Conclusion: We identified the known oncogenic viruses HPV, KSHV, and EBV in OSSN and pterygia tissues. The presence of these tumor viruses in OSSN suggests that they may contribute to the development of this malignancy in the HIV population. Further studies are necessary to characterize the molecular mechanisms associated with viral antigens and their potential role in the development of OSSN. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/565 Files in this item: 1
Multiple oncogenic.pdf (3.107Mb) -
Ekosse, G.; De Jager, L.; Van den Heever, D.J. (AJOL http://www.ajol.info/index.php/ajhs/article/view/30799/23130, NaN, 2005)[more][less]
Abstract: This study aimed at establishing occurrences of chest pains and frequent coughing among different classes of residents within Selibe Phikwe, Botswana where there are on going nickel-copper mining and smelting activities. Through the administration of questionnaires and structured question to 600 individuals, 7 health service providers, 200 business enterprises, and 30 educational institutions, attempts were made to establish and verify the existing human health status at Selebi Phikwe by focusing on chest pains and frequent coughing which are considered to be some of the respiratory tract related symptoms of sicknesses and diseases. With the aid of statistical package of social sciences (SPSS), interpreted results from respondents indicated that 33% of the individuals complained of persistent chest pains, and 27% of educational institutions, 45% business enterprises, and all health service providers had learners, workers, and patients who complained of chest pains. Furthermore, 49% of the individuals complained of persistent frequent coughing; and 70% of educational institutions, 45% business interprises, and all health service providers had learners, workers, and patients who complained of frequent coughing. According to study sites, respondents living in sites closest to the mine and smelter/concentrator plant reported a higher incidence of chest pains and frequent coughing, compared to those living in other parts of the study area. Residents associated fumes and dust from mining activities to the frequent coughing and persistent chest pains, which could be symptoms of respiratory tract diseases. This baseline investigation calls for further studies to establish relations of mining activities to human health at Selebi Phikwe. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/379 Files in this item: 1
Ekosse_AJHS_2005.pdf (2.243Mb) -
Tshiamo, W. (Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd. http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/bsc/ijn, NaN, 2009)[more][less]
Abstract: Although developed countries have largely eliminated the problem of paraffin ingestion in young children, many developing countries have not. Paraffin, used as a home energy source, particularly in rural area, accounts for a significant percent of paediatric poisoning and can lead to serious health problems, complications and death. This paper presents a review done by a nurse clinician concerned about the number of paediatric poisonings she saw in the hospital in one developing country, Botswana. The first stage of solving the problem is presented in which she established the extent and epidemiology of the issue. Suggestions for its solution are also discussed. It is hoped that this can serve both to increase awareness in developing countries of the dangers of paraffin poisoning and serve as a model for nurse clinicians and researchers in developing countries. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/557 Files in this item: 1
Paraffin kerosene poisoning.pdf (527.8Kb) -
Nthomang, K.; Phaladze, N.; Oagile, N.; Ngwenya, B.; Seboni, N.; Gobotswang, K.; Kubanji, R. (Taylor & Francis, http://www.informaworld.com/smpp/title~db=all~content=t713723020, NaN, 2009)[more][less]
Abstract: HIV-related stigma is a life-altering phenomenon. The consequence of the stigmatization process sets apart stigmatized person(s) as a distinct category, leading to various forms of disapproval, rejection, exclusion, labeling, stereotyping, and discrimination. Stigma of HIV-positive people in Botswana is a complex social phenomenon associated with the disease itself and the behaviors that lead to infection. This is a synthesis paper based on the literature review on HIV- and AIDS-related stigmatization of HIV-positive people in Botswana and in-depth interviews with people living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHAs). I examine the literature on HIV- and AIDS-related stigmatization and subsequent discrimination and the implications for intervention programs for people living with HIV and AIDS. The findings from the literature and in-depth interviews show that HIV-AIDS-related stigma is deeply embedded in societal structures and culture which promote nonacceptance of those branded HIV positive. This often is reinforced at a practical level by pervasive negative attitudes toward PLWHAs. Recommendations argue for the adoption of Healthy Relationship. This intervention seeks to promote and strengthen decision-making skills among PLWHAs and programs that promote destigmatization of, and tolerant attitudes toward, PLWHAs. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/857 Files in this item: 1
Nthomang_HCWI_2009.pdf (103.4Kb) -
Weiser, S. D.; Leiter, K.; Heisler, M.; McFarland, W.; Percy-de Korte, F.; DeMonner, S. M.; Tlou, S.; Phaladze, N.; Iacopino, V.; Bangsberg, D. R. (Public Library of Science, http://www.plos.org/, January 1, 2006)[more][less]
Abstract: Background In Botswana, an estimated 24% of adults ages 15–49 years are infected with HIV. While alcohol use is strongly associated with HIV infection in Africa, few population-based studies have characterized the association of alcohol use with specific high-risk sexual behaviors. Methods and Findings We conducted a cross-sectional, population-based study of 1,268 adults from five districts in Botswana using a stratified two-stage probability sample design. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess correlates of heavy alcohol consumption (>14 drinks/week for women, and >21 drinks/week for men) as a dependent variable. We also assessed gender-specific associations between alcohol use as a primary independent variable (categorized as none, moderate, problem and heavy drinking) and several risky sex outcomes including: (a) having unprotected sex with a nonmonogamous partner; (b) having multiple sexual partners; and (c) paying for or selling sex in exchange for money or other resources. Criteria for heavy drinking were met by 31% of men and 17% of women. Adjusted correlates of heavy alcohol use included male gender, intergenerational relationships (age ≥gap 10 y), higher education, and living with a sexual partner. Among men, heavy alcohol use was associated with higher odds of all risky sex outcomes examined, including unprotected sex (AOR = 3.48; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.65 to 7.32), multiple partners (AOR = 3.08; 95% CI, 1.95 to 4.87), and paying for sex (AOR = 3.65; 95% CI, 2.58 to 12.37). Similarly, among women, heavy alcohol consumption was associated with higher odds of unprotected sex (AOR = 3.28; 95% CI, 1.71 to 6.28), multiple partners (AOR = 3.05; 95% CI, 1.83 to 5.07), and selling sex (AOR = 8.50; 95% CI, 3.41 to 21.18). A dose-response relationship was seen between alcohol use and risky sexual behaviors, with moderate drinkers at lower risk than both problem and heavy drinkers. Conclusions Alcohol use is associated with multiple risks for HIV transmission among both men and women. The findings of this study underscore the need to integrate alcohol abuse and HIV prevention efforts in Botswana and elsewhere. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/591 Files in this item: 1
Populaton based study.pdf (2.223Mb) -
Seboni, N.M. (Elsevier Ltd. www.elsevier.com/ijns, NaN, 2009)[more][less]
URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/576 Files in this item: 1
Proliferation of new health cadres.pdf (360.5Kb) -
Fako, T.T.; Forcheh, N.; Ncube, E. (Elsevier Ltd. www.elsevier.com/locate/socscimed, January 1, 2003)[more][less]
Abstract: This paper examines several key factors that determine nurses’ ability to complete the Botswana Obstetric Record (BOR), an instrument that should help with early diagnosis of problems during pregnancy, labour, delivery and the puerperium. Using a national sample of 309 nurses working in hospitals, clinics and health posts under the local government authority in Botswana, the study found that a nurse’s ability to complete the BOR was significantly related to midwifery training, level of basic nursing training, age group, level of income, job satisfaction, adequacy of equipment, attendance of refresher courses, overall level of in-service training, reliance on workshops and seminars, peer reliance and self-reliance for information on new nursing practices. Multivariate analyses indicated that the most competent nurse in completing the BOR was one trained as a midwife, working in an adequately equipped health facility, and who often consulted with peers as well as attended workshops and seminars. The study concludes that it is more important to train all nurses to become midwives than to upgrade enrolled nurses to become registered nurses if the plan for safe motherhood is to be advanced. Further research is needed to establish the objective competence of nurses who claim to be comfortable completing the BOR. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/564 Files in this item: 1
Prospects of safe motherhood.pdf (2.915Mb) -
Thupayagale-Tshweneagae, G. (Blackwell Publishing Ltd. http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/bsc/jpmhn, NaN, 2008)[more][less]
Abstract: Studies on the psychosocial effects of grandmothers as primary caregivers in Botswana are non-existent. The purpose of this study was to close that knowledge gap. Twenty-five (n = 25) grandmothers who were primary caregivers to their grandchildren in one rural village of Botswana were interviewed twice a week between January and May 2006. A central theme that emerged from the interviews under psychological effects was ‘disenfranchised grief’ with sub themes that included depression, loneliness, blaming and stress. The themes that emerged on social effects included isolation, loss of control, unavailability of mental health services, financial hardships and a sense of failure for some participants. Implications for mental health practitioners and policy makers are given. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/555 Files in this item: 1
Psychosocial effects experienced.pdf (715.8Kb) -
Phaladze, N.A.; Human, S.; Dlamini, S.B.; Hulela, E.B.; Hadebe, I.M.; Sukati, N. A.; Makoae, L.N.; Seboni, N.M.; Moleko, M.; Holzemer, W.L. (Journal of Nursing Scholarship. http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/bsc/jnu, NaN, 2005)[more][less]
Abstract: Purpose: To increase understanding of the meaning of quality of life for people living with HIV/AIDS in four countries in sub-Saharan Africa: Botswana, Lesotho, South Africa, and Swaziland. Methods: Using a cross-sectional design and convenience sample, we administered a survey and collected data on demographic characteristics, measures of severity of illness, and perceptions of quality of life. The purposefully selected sample (N=743) consisted of community-based people living with HIV/AIDS in 2002. Based on the Wilson and Cleary framework for organizing variables related to quality of life, a hierarchical multiple regression was conducted with quality of life as the dependent variable. Results: The sample of 743 persons was 61.2% female with a mean age of 34 years. Approximately 62% of the sample reported having received an AIDS diagnosis. Ten predictor variables explained 53.2% of the variance in life satisfaction. Those participants with higher life satisfaction scores were less educated, had worries about disclosure and finances, did not have an AIDS diagnosis or other comorbid conditions, had lower symptom intensity, had greater functioning, and had fewer health worries. None of these participants was taking antiretroviral medications at the time of this study. Conclusions: Several dimensions of the Wilson and Cleary model of quality of life were significantly related to life satisfaction for people living with HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa. Quality of life for this sample was primarily defined as overall functional ability and control over symptom intensity. These findings are similar to studies in developed countries that have shown the significant relationships among functional abilities, symptom control, and perceived quality of life. As antiretroviral medications become more available in these areas, community members and care providers can help clients realize the possibility of living well with HIV/AIDS, and can work with clients to improve functional ability and control symptom intensity to make living well a reality. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/570 Files in this item: 1
Quality of life.pdf (1.142Mb) -
Phaladze, N.A. (International Council of Nurses. http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/bsc/inr;jsessionid=81ud25de419e.alexandra, NaN, 2003)[more][less]
Abstract: In Botswana, there is dearth of literature on the role of nursing in health-care policy and resource allocation and yet nurses constitute the majority (85%) of health manpower. The health-care delivery system depends mostly on nurses for service provision. There were two main purposes of this study: first, to gather descriptive data from major key players (with particular emphasis on nurses) concerning knowledge of the policy process and resource allocation for management and care of clients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) in Botswana; and, second, to identify nurse characteristics (e.g. position, education, experience, job category) associated with motivation to influence healthcare policy in HIV/AIDS management and care in Botswana. A policy process conceptual framework was used to guide data collection and analysis. A case-study research method was used to conduct in-depth interviews from a purposive sample of 19 policy makers, and a survey questionnaire was used to collect data from a purposive sample of 95 registered nurses from six study sites in Botswana. The study findings indicate minimal participation of nurses in health-care policy process and resource allocation. The demographic variable of position was a predictor of the involvement of nurses in policy and in budgetary decisions. Both survey and interview data indicated that this minimal participation of nurses in the policy process resulted in implementation problems, thus compromising service provision. Implications of the findings for the nursing profession, nursing practice and policy, which address the importance of nurses’ involvement, are discussed. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/571 Files in this item: 1
Role of nurses.pdf (1.855Mb) -
Weiser, S.D.; Heisler, M.; Leiter, K.; Percy-de Korte, F.; Tlou, S.; DeMonner, S.; Phaladze, N.; Bangsberg, D.R.; Iacopino, V. (PLoS Medicine. www.plosmedicine.org, NaN, 2006)[more][less]
Abstract: Background The Botswana government recently implemented a policy of routine or "opt-out" HIV testing in response to the high prevalence of HIV infection, estimated at 37% of adults. Methods and Findings We conducted a cross-sectional, population-based study of 1,268 adults from five districts in Botswana to assess knowledge of and attitudes toward routine testing, correlates of HIV testing, and barriers and facilitators to testing, 11 months after the introduction of this policy. Most participants (81%) reported being extremely or very much in favor of routine testing. The majority believed that this policy would decrease barriers to testing (89%), HIV-related stigma (60%), and violence toward women (55%), and would increase access to antiretroviral treatment (93%). At the same time, 43% of participants believed that routine testing would lead people to avoid going to the doctor for fear of testing, and 14% believed that this policy could increase gender-based violence related to testing. The prevalence of self-reported HIV testing was 48%. Adjusted correlates of testing included female gender (AOR ¼ 1.5, 95% CI ¼ 1.1–1.9), higher education (AOR¼2.0, 95% CI¼1.5–2.7), more frequent healthcare visits (AOR¼ 1.9, 95% CI ¼ 1.3–2.7), perceived access to HIV testing (AOR ¼ 1.6, 95% CI ¼ 1.1–2.5), and inconsistent condom use (AOR ¼ 1.6, 95% CI ¼ 1.2–2.1). Individuals with stigmatizing attitudes toward people living with HIV and AIDS were less likely to have been tested for HIV/AIDS (AOR ¼ 0.7, 95% CI ¼ 0.5–0.9) or to have heard of routine testing (AOR ¼ 0.59, 95% CI ¼ 0.45–0.76). While experiences with voluntary and routine testing overall were positive, 68% felt that they could not refuse the HIV test. Key barriers to testing included fear of learning one’s status (49%), lack of perceived HIV risk (43%), and fear of having to change sexual practices with a positive HIV test (33%). Conclusions Routine testing appears to be widely supported and may reduce barriers to testing in Botswana. As routine testing is adopted elsewhere, measures should be implemented to assure true informed consent and human rights safeguards, including protection from HIV-related discrimination and protection of women against partner violence related to testing. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/554 Files in this item: 1
Routine HIV testing.pdf (1.339Mb) -
Cainelli, F.; Vallone, A. (Dove Medical Press Ltd. http://www.dovepress.com/biologics-targets--therapy-journal, NaN, 2009)[more][less]
Abstract: Kaposi’s sarcoma is a vascular tumor linked to the presence of Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (human herpesvirus-8) and the incidence of which has increased considerably the world over after the onset of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pandemic. Antiretroviral therapy combined with cytotoxic agents has been established as the treatment of choice in the past 10 years. Among chemotherapeutic agents, pegylated liposomal doxorubicin has become the preferred one for patients with HIV-associated Kaposi’s sarcoma in Western countries. The drug in this formulation localizes better to the tumor and has higher efficacy. Skin toxicity, mucositis, and leukopenia/neutropenia are the main side effects. Hepatotoxicity and mild cardiotoxicity are observed less frequently. Pegylated liposomal doxorubicin impacts favorably on quality of life. Although cost effective in Western countries, the drug is less so in developing countries. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/419 Files in this item: 1
Safety and efficacy.pdf (737.4Kb) -
Shaibu, S.; Phaladze, N.A. (Cambridge University Press. http://journals.cambridge.org/action/displayJournal?jid=PHC, NaN, 2010)[more][less]
Abstract: This paper reports an evaluation of the implementation of the School Health Policy (SHP) in Botswana schools. Historically, school health originated with a concern for the number of children being excluded from school owing to communicable diseases. In 1999, the three ministries, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Local Government, developed the Botswana School Health Policy and Procedures Manual. The school health services are organized at national, district and local levels. The purpose of the evaluation was to explore how school health services were delivered in schools in Botswana. Data on current practices on school health were collected using observations, field notes and interviews of various school personnel in 27 schools located in the Gaborone district, and surrounding villages using the assessment guide in the SHP. Content analysis was used to analyse the data. Several challenges to implementing the school health policy were identified, for example, lack of human resources, lack of equipment supplies, lack of health knowledge among teachers, as well as organizational problems. This has budgetary implications for Botswana at both central and district levels. Commitment of all stakeholders in all ministries concerned would also improve the implementation of school health services. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/563 Files in this item: 1
School health.pdf (911.5Kb) -
Creek, T.L.; Ntumy, R.; Seipone, K.; Smith, M.; Mogodi, M.; Smit, M.; Legwaila, K.; Molokwane, I.; Tebele, G.; Mazhani, L.; Shaffer, N.; Kilmarx, P.H. (Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. http://journals.lww.com/jaids/pages/default.aspx, NaN, 2007)[more][less]
Abstract: Botswana has high HIV prevalence among pregnant women (37.4% in 2003) and provides free services for prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV. Nearly all pregnant women (.95%) have antenatal care (ANC) and deliver in hospital. Uptake of antenatal HIV testing was low from 1999 through 2003. In 2004, Botswana’s President declared that HIV testing should be ‘‘routine but not compulsory’’ in medical settings. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/330 Files in this item: 1
Successful introduction of routine.pdf (4.433Mb) -
Voss, J.; Sukati, N.; Seboni, N.; Makoae, L.; Moleko, M.; Human, S.; Molosiwa, K.; Holzemer, W. (Elsevier; http://www.elsevier.com/wps/find/journaldescription.cws_home/704632/description#description; Association of Nurses in AIDS Care. http://www.nursesinaidscare.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3277, NaN, 2007)[more][less]
Abstract: HIV-related fatigue is a debilitating and disabling symptom that persists for months and years. In 743 HIV/AIDS patients from Southern Africa, the authors found ratings of HIV-related fatigue to be highly prevalent. The authors conducted a secondary data analysis within the theoretical context of the University of California, San Francisco Symptom Management Model. The analysis focused on 538 patients who reported fatigue to investigate correlates and predictors of fatigue severity in relationship to demographic and HIV/AIDS illness indicators, as well as HIV-specific physical and psychological symptoms. A hierarchical regression model explored the contributions of those five blocks on fatigue severity. Of the 47% of the total variance in fatigue severity, a combination of variables within the health and illness block (6%), the physical symptoms block (7%) and the psychological symptom block (2%) contributed significantly to the increase in fatigue severity scores. Fatigue severity in Southern Africa was moderate, and the factors contributing to the perceived fatigue were most likely related to symptoms of acute HIV disease (such as fever and gastrointestinal problems). In conclusion, fatigue severity is less impacted by demographic or environmental variables but much more by co-occurring symptoms and HIV disease severity. The results of this study imply the need for more research to understand if improvements in water quality and access to food would prevent infection and diarrhea and whether sufficient access to antiretroviral treatments to manage the HIV infection would improve fatigue and co-occurring symptom profiles. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/263 Files in this item: 2
license.txt (1.998Kb)Symptom Burden of Fatigue.pdf (5.279Mb) -
Makoae, L.C.; Seboni, N.M.; Molosiwa, K.; Moleko, M.; Human, S.; Sukati, N.A.; Holzemer, W.L. (Association of Nurses in AIDS Care. http://www.elsevier.com/wps/find/journaldescription.cws_home/704632/authorinstructions, NaN, 2005)[more][less]
Abstract: This study describes the symptom experience of 743 men and women living with HIV/AIDS in Botswana, Lesotho, South Africa, and Swaziland. Data were obtained in 2002 by using a cross-sectional design. A survey of participants included 17 sociodemographic items and the 64-item Revised Sign and Symptom Checklist for Persons with HIV Disease. Results indicate a strong correlation between the frequency of reported symptoms and their intensity (r .84, p .00). Participants who reported having enough money for daily expenses also reported significantly fewer symptoms. There were no significant differences in symptom frequency between men and women or by location of residence. The study showed a complex picture of HIV-related symptoms in all four countries. Because of the high levels of symptoms reported, the results imply an urgent need for effective home- and community-based symptom management in countries where antiretroviral therapy is unavailable to help patients and their families manage and control AIDS symptoms and improve quality of life. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/558 Files in this item: 1
Symptom experience.pdf (1.693Mb) -
Voss, J.G.; Sukati, N.A.; Seboni, N.M.; Makoae, L.N.; Moleko, M.; Human, S.; Molosiwa, K.; Holzemer, W.L. (Association of Nurses in AIDS Care. http://www.elsevier.com/wps/find/journaldescription.cws_home/704632/description#description, NaN, 2005)[more][less]
Abstract: HIV-related fatigue is a debilitating and disabling symptom that persists for months and years. In 743 HIV/AIDS patients from Southern Africa, the authors found ratings of HIV-related fatigue to be highly prevalent. The authors conducted a secondary data analysis within the theoretical context of the University of California, San Francisco Symptom Management Model. The analysis focused on 538 patients who reported fatigue to investigate correlates and predictors of fatigue severity in relationship to demographic and HIV/AIDS illness indicators, as well as HIV-specific physical and psychological symptoms. A hierarchical regression model explored the contributions of those five blocks on fatigue severity. Of the 47% of the total variance in fatigue severity, a combination of variables within the health and illness block (6%), the physical symptoms block (7%) and the psychological symptom block (2%) contributed significantly to the increase in fatigue severity scores. Fatigue severity in Southern Africa was moderate, and the factors contributing to the perceived fatigue were most likely related to symptoms of acute HIV disease (such as fever and gastrointestinal problems). In conclusion, fatigue severity is less impacted by demographic or environmental variables but much more by co-occurring symptoms and HIV disease severity. The results of this study imply the need for more research to understand if improvements in water quality and access to food would prevent infection and diarrhea and whether sufficient access to antiretroviral treatments to manage the HIV infection would improve fatigue and co-occurring symptom profiles. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/538 Files in this item: 1
The symptom experience.pdf (1.131Mb) -
Thupayagale-Tshweneagae, G.; Dithole, K. (Nursing Forum.http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/bsc/nuf, January 1, 2007)[more][less]
Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to elucidate contributing factors to the disunity in nursing, and argue that if united nursing would be able to achieve harmony, respect, and, above all, recognition. Social and historical identities imperil nurses, make them defenseless, and cause disunity. The relation between nursing and effects of gender discourses in power struggles is also accentuated. The paper concludes by advancing solutions to the disunity and argues that if measures are not taken urgently, unity in nursing will remain intangible and a legacy of disunity passes to the incoming generation. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/566 Files in this item: 1
Unity among nurses.pdf (628.6Kb)