Effective Communication Research Articles

Investigating the relationship between missed/rationed nursing care and organizational commitment in Iranian nurses

Background and objectiveThe primary objective of the nursing profession is to provide comprehensive and appropriate nursing care that meets the individual needs of patients. However, instances of missed/rationed nursing care can jeopardize the delivery of complete and safe healthcare, potentially putting patients’ lives at risk. The level of organizational commitment demonstrated by nurses is likely to impact various personnel and organizational factors. Therefore, this study aims to predict instances of missed/rationed nursing care by examining the influence of organizational commitment.MethodThis descriptive and cross-sectional study will be conducted in 2023. Three hundred nurses working in general and intensive critical care units at Tehran University of Medical Sciences hospitals were randomly selected. Data collection included Allen and Mayer’s organizational commitment questionnaires, Kalish’s missed care questionnaire, and demographic variables. A multiple linear regression model was used to analyze the prediction of missed care by commitment and other variables. The relationship between these variables was also explored using SPSS version 26 software.FindingsHalf of the nurses reported occasionally missing nursing care. Moreover, more than half of the nurses reported moderate organizational commitment in all dimensions. The most significant reasons identified by nurses for missed care were financial resources, human resources, and communication (p < 0.001). There was a significant relationship between missed/rationed nursing care and organizational commitment (p = 0.042). In the multiple regression equation, a significant portion of missed care due to commitment was predicted when considering demographic variables (p < 0.001).ConclusionBy understanding the relationship between organizational commitment and missed care, and identifying the factors contributing to missed/rationed care, managers can improve the efficiency of human resources and allocate appropriate financial resources. Establishing effective communication with employees can also enhance their commitment to addressing neglected care, ultimately reducing instances of oversight.

A 2m-Range 711μW Body Channel Communication Transceiver Featuring Dynamically-Sampling Bias-Free Interface Front End.

Body Channel Communication (BCC) utilizes the body surface as a low-loss signal transmission medium, reducing the power consumption of wireless wearable devices. However, the effective communication range on the human body is limited in the state-of-the-art BCC transceivers, where the signal loss between the body surface and the BCC receiver remains one of the main bottlenecks. To reduce the interface loss, a high input impedance is desired by the BCC receiver, but the DC-biasing circuits decrease the input impedance. In this work, a dynamically-sampling IFE is proposed to eliminate the DC voltage bias, resulting in a 90kΩ high input impedance and a 94dB RF-IF conversion gain to reduce the interface loss in long-range BCC applications. The BCC transceiver chip is fabricated in 55nm CMOS process, taking a die area of 0.123mm2. Measured results show that the chip extends the BCC range to 2m for both the forward and backward paths, where the transmitter and receiver consume 711μW power in total.

End-of-life care for the devout Jewish patient.

The Joint Commission emphasizes the importance of cultural competence and effective communication in quality medical care, particularly during end-of-life (EOL), when decisions are influenced by diverse cultural and religious backgrounds. For Orthodox Jewish patients, the philosophical framework used for EOL decision-making may conflict with that used in traditional Western medical ethics. In this paper, we explore the complexities of EOL decision-making for devout Jewish patients and highlight how approaches may differ from a Western ethical framework. This paper aims to familiarize clinicians with EOL preferences of Orthodox Jewish patients, organized into an ethical framework called 'casuistic deontology'. Leading with an open-minded approach emphasizing cultural humility, we explore ways in which integrating this perspective can allow for culturally appropriate and compassionate EOL care. Using a case study methodology, we focus on a 79-year-old Orthodox Jewish male hospitalized with severe injuries. The patient's medical course is analyzed, highlighting how the decisions made by his family in consultation with their Rabbi may differ from the decisions made with a philosophy of a Western ethical framework. This case illustrates the ethical tensions that may arise when Western medical practices intersect with Orthodox Jewish beliefs, particularly regarding brain death, resuscitation, and artificial nutrition. We underscore the need for cultural sensitivity when approaching EOL decision-making, allowing for compassionate and comprehensive care that respects religious perspectives. This paper helps provide a structure for clinicians to navigate the complex EOL care needs for the devout Jewish patient in a manner consistent with their cultural and religious identity.

Re/connecting with “home”: a mixed methods study of service provider and patient perspectives to facilitate implementing rehabilitation in the home for reconditioning

Purpose To explore the views of healthcare professionals and patients about the advantages and disadvantages of rehabilitation in the home (RITH) for reconditioning, and identify factors that should contribute to the successful implementation of a consensus-based RITH model for reconditioning. Materials and methods Interviews with 24 healthcare professionals and 21 surveys (comprising Likert scale and free text responses) of inpatients undergoing rehabilitation for reconditioning provided study data. Interpretive thematic analysis was used to analyse interview data; descriptive statistics analysed Likert scale responses; patient written responses assisted with the interpretation of themes developed from the interview data. Results Two major themes were elicited in this study: the home is a physical setting and the home is a lived space. Advantages and disadvantages of RITH for patients, carers and healthcare professionals were identified within these themes. Appropriate patient selection; effective communication with patients and carers, and within RITH teams; adequate patient and carer support; ensuring the safety of patients and staff; and education of patients, carers and healthcare professionals are essential for the satisfactory implementation of RITH. Conclusion The concept of home shapes the delivery of RITH. Recognising the advantages and disadvantages of RITH highlights important considerations needed to successfully implement RITH for reconditioning.

Did the Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration (PCOC) program lead to improved end-of-life care quality and reduced non-beneficial treatments?

Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration (PCOC) is an internationally recognized program developed in Australia. Taiwan became the first country in Asia to implement PCOC in 2020. There is little research on the impact of PCOC in Asia. We sought to examine the effects of the Taiwan PCOC on palliative outcomes. The study analyzed the impact of PCOC with a retrospective cohort design. The hypotheses were that PCOC could improve end-of-life care quality and reduce non-beneficial treatments. The study enrolled patients with terminal illnesses from the inpatient palliative care units. General characteristics of participants were collected. Exclusion criteria were people without a diagnosis of terminal illness, aged 20 and younger, or with missing data. The study collected 1,121 patients, 555 in the PCOC comparison group and 566 in the intervention group. Most patients were with terminal cancer (88.58%). The rates of hospital deaths in the PCOC and non-PCOC groups were 68.73% vs. 74.95% (P = 0.021). A multivariable logistic regression model, adjusting for age, sex, Charlson comorbidity index, and terminal cancer status, was utilized. The PCOC intervention significantly decreased hospital deaths (OR = 0.26, 95%CI 0. 16-0.41, P < 0.001). PCOC in Taiwan significantly reduced hospital deaths among terminal patients, possibly due to effective symptom management and improved communication via the use of patient-reported outcomes. Further research is needed to support PCOC implementation in Asia and investigate collaboration programs' impact on end-of-life care quality and non-beneficial treatments.

Political economy analysis of health taxes (tobacco, alcohol drink and sugar-sweteened beverage): qualitative study of three provinces in Indonesia

ObjectiveEfforts to implement health tax policies to control the consumption of harmful commodities and enhance public health outcomes have garnered substantial recognition globally. However, their successful adoption remains a complex...

Evaluating the Challenges and Prospects of Cross-Cultural Communication in Promoting Free Trade Zones in Nigeria

Free Trade Zones (FTZs) in Nigeria attract a diverse array of workers, businesses, and management teams from various cultural backgrounds. Effective communication within these environments is crucial for facilitating idea exchange, building trust, and maintaining relationships. With the expansion of global trade, the significance of cross-cultural communication in ensuring successful business interactions is paramount. However, the convergence of diverse cultural, linguistic, and business practices in Nigeria presents challenges that impede the optimal functioning of FTZs. This study delineates the challenges and prospects of cross-cultural communication in promoting investment in Nigerian FTZs. Using a qualitative approach, it employs in-depth interviews and document analysis to comprehensively explore these issues. Engaging stakeholders from different cultural backgrounds, the study identifies key communication challenges, including language barriers, stereotypes, ethnocentrism, and non-verbal communication differences. Despite these obstacles, implementing intercultural training programs and digital communication tools can enhance business interactions. This research contributes to international business, intercultural communication, and economic development discourse, offering insights for policymakers, business practitioners, and academics.

Critical thinking, assessment, and educational policy in Palestinian universities

This study examines the relationship between critical thinking and grades at the tertiary level, focusing on their social, political, and ethical implications. Employing a mixed-methods approach, this study combines survey data collection with in-depth interviews to generate comprehensive insights into the complex relationship between critical thinking and grades. The survey targets 173 faculty members, while the interviews focus on seven selected academic staff members from Palestinian universities, enabling a comprehensive understanding of the research objectives. Results showed that grades often hinder critical thinking skills and creativity, leading to rote memorization and limited creativity. The study also highlights the political implications of grades, as standardized testing influences education policies and curriculum decisions. Faculty members expressed criticism of the prioritization of grades, citing conventional evaluation methods, temporal limitations, and resource constraints. As critical thinking is crucial for comprehensive student development, contributing to problem-solving, decision-making, creativity, innovation, effective communication, and active citizenship, the study proposes diverse approaches to strike a balance between valuing grades and nurturing critical thinking abilities. By fostering critical thinking abilities, Palestinian students can enhance their preparedness for academic pursuits, personal growth, and societal contributions.

On the Morality of Reallocating Life-Sustaining Interventions in Times of Scarcity

Abstract As coronavirus disease 2019 made its way across the world in 2019, health systems began to develop guidelines to allocate what was expected to be a scarcity of medical resources. Considerable attention was given to triaging intensive care resources such as ventilators. While there was general agreement among bioethicists and policymakers that it may be permissible to withhold life-sustaining interventions from patients with poor prognoses in order to make them available to patients with better prognoses, there was disagreement about the permissibility of withdrawing such interventions for this purpose. Some maintained that the doctrine of double effect (DDE) revealed the intrinsic wrongness of such acts of reallocation. This article argues that so long as there is transparency and effective ongoing communication, the DDE may permit the discontinuation of life-sustaining interventions from patients who may still benefit from them in order to make them available to patients with more favorable prognoses.

Communication Strategies Used during a Crisis in the Tourism and Hospitality Industry in Naivasha Sub-County

Purpose: Since tourism is highly susceptible to shocks, and effects of crises in the industry can lead to several direct and indirect repercussions, appropriate communication techniques and strategies are needed to proactively overcome or prevent crises. However, in Kenya, assessment of the same is glaringly insufficient, hence, the need for the current study. The study objective was guided by a research question; What are the during-crisis communication strategies used in crises preparedness in the tourism and hospitality industry in Naivasha Sub-county? Methodology: The study was conducted among hotels in Naivasha Sub-County of Nakuru County of Kenya using a mixed research methodology. Using a sample of 362 employees through multi-stage and purposive sampling techniques, questionnaires were used to collect data among employees while 28 key informant interviews were used among the hotel managers. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze quantitative data. Findings: The study concluded that during crisis communication strategies featured issuance of accurate and consistent messages, giving precautions, dissemination of information on how to cope physically as well as information on prioritizing self-protection. The communication strategies during the crisis influenced the preparedness in small and insignificant amounts (sig. = .968). The results showed that communicating on precautions during a crisis was a special way and strategy to contain the effect of the crisis. The study found that more than half of the hotel staff 175(59.5%) agreed that their organizations give accurate and consistent messages on crisis preparedness. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommends that the Cabinet secretary in the Ministry of Tourism develop policies that spell and guide crisis management plans that acknowledge effective crisis communication strategies in hotels in the country. For individual hotel operators and managers in Naivasha subcounty, provision of regular information on crisis, and having a crisis communication plan in the precrisis stage will educate and sensitize the employees of the possible risks and how to handle them. This study findings will inform academia and be a base for scholars in mass communication in carrying out further studies in communicative strategies used in crises preparedness. The study findings inform development and roll out of policies that guide crisis management plans in tourism and hotel industry.

Exploring Clause Complexity: A Detailed Analysis Within a Specific Text

This study investigates the role of clause complexity in students' academic writing, focusing on the application of Systemic Functional Grammar (SFG) symbols to create persuasive and coherent discourse. Employing a qualitative single-case method, the analysis examines a specific text on the dangers of smoking produced by students. The findings showcase the students' effective use of varied clause types and relationships, as well as their ability to present a systematic and logical flow of ideas supported by factual evidence. The results emphasize the importance of mastering multiple elements, such as utilizing diverse clause types and maintaining a strategic narrative flow, for successful academic writing. These insights can serve as valuable information for educators and academic writers alike, offering a deeper understanding of the implications of clause complexity and its role in fostering effective communication in academic writing.

Influence of Organizational Security Learning Practices on Insider Security Threats in SoCs in Kenya

Insider threats have consistently been identified as key threats to State-owned Corporations and governments (SoCs). Research has shown that huge amounts of resources go towards safeguarding organizations’ assets and information systems from external threats in total disregard of potential threats from malicious and compromised insiders. Recent studies indicate that insider threats are on the rise and have cost the Kenyan economy $ 36Million USD. In addition, investigations show that these threats are increasing in scale, scope, and sophistication. The general objective of the study was to investigate on the organizational factors influencing insider security threats in State-owned Corporations in Kenya. Specifically, the study evaluated the influence of organizational security policies, organizational security learning practices and organizational communication practices on insider security threats in State-owned Corporations in Kenya. The study was anchored on the CISA Insider Threats Risk Score Model, deterrence theory, social learning theory and the communication privacy management theory. The study adopted descriptive correlational research design. The target population was 187 State-owned Corporations in Kenya. A census sampling design was used targeting the Security managers or their equivalent in SoCs. The researcher utilized a self-administered questionnaire as the data collection method. Data was analysed through quantitative techniques using the SPSS. The study established that organizational security policies have significant influence on insider security threats in SoCs in Kenya. The study also established that organizational security learning practices have significant influence on insider security threats in SoCs in Kenya. In addition, the study revealed that organizational communication practices have significant influence on insider security threats in SoCs in Kenya. The study also deduced that the combined influence of organizational security policies, learning practices and communication practices (organizational factors) significantly influence insider security threats in SoCs in Kenya. The study recommends that SoCs consider conducting a comprehensive review of their existing security policies, ensuring clarity on the severity of consequences for insider threats. Further, the study recommends that SoCs work on strengthening their learning policies to emphasize the importance of observational learning, role modeling, and positive reinforcement in the context of security awareness to address insider security threats. Additionally, the study recommends that SoCs provide training programs that emphasize effective communication practices surrounding privacy management.

Effectiveness of Communication Channels for Maternal Healthcare in Delta State

This study on the effectiveness of communication channels for maternal healthcare is one of great concern with the increased health risks for women in their reproductive years of pregnancy and childbirth. This is especially true in developing countries such as Nigeria where thousands of women die yearly in pregnancy or childbirth. The qualitative and quantitative design method was applied in the study and the questionnaire was used for data collection from 399 respondents. The study found that the level of awareness of the programmes was encouraging for FMHCP and HeFAD; that the communication channels were adequate, and more than half thought they were effective in influencing participation in the maternal healthcare programmes. The findings provide healthcare professionals with an important insight into issues of effective communication therefore, recommend the continuous usage of communication channels to spread awareness of maternal healthcare programmes to enhance the provision of appropriate health information and maternity care to women

Extracellular vesicles as mediators of stress response in embryo-maternal communication

Introduction: The pivotal role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in facilitating effective communication between the embryo and maternal cells during the preimplantation stage of pregnancy has been extensively explored. Nonetheless, inquiries persist regarding the alterations in EV cargo from endometrial cells under stress conditions and its potential to elicit specific stress responses in trophoblast cells. Thus, the aim of this study was to elucidate the involvement of EV miRNA miRNAs in transmitting stress signals from maternal cells to trophoblasts.Methods: The receptive endometrial epithelium analogue RL95-2 cells were subjected to stress induction with 200 µM CoCl2 for 24 h before EV isolation. JAr trophoblast spheroids, which serve as embryos, were subjected to treatment with stressed or unstressed EVs derived from RL95-2 cells for 24 h. Transcriptomic alterations in the treated JAr spheroids as well as in the untreated group, as a negative control, were investigated by mRNA sequencing. Furthermore, the changes in EV miRNAs were assessed by sequencing EV samples.Results: A comprehensive analysis comparing the miRNA profiles between stressed and unstressed EVs revealed significant changes in 25 miRNAs. Furthermore, transcriptomic analysis of JAr spheroids treated with stressed RL95-2EVs versus unstressed EVs or the untreated group demonstrated 6 and 27 differentially expressed genes, respectively. Pathway enrichment analysis showed that stressed EVs induce alterations in gene expression in trophoblast cells, which is partially mediated by EV microRNAs.Discussion: Our results suggest that EVs can transfer stress signals from endometrial cells to the embryo. These discoveries shed new light on the mechanism underlying implantation failures under stress conditions. Unraveling the role of EVs in transmitting stress signals, can extend our knowledge to pave the way for targeted interventions to manage stress-related implantation failures.

Enhancing Adaptability and Autonomy in Cooperative Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm Robots: Implementation of Coordination and Rapidly Exploring Random Tree Algorithms for Safe and Efficient Manipulation Tasks

In this study, a cooperative robotic system comprising two Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm (SCARA) robots was developed and simulated. An algorithm was proposed for the coordination of robots in cooperative tasks, along with a Rapidly exploring Random Tree (RRT) path planner for obstacle avoidance. The proposed system proved effective in transferring objects between robots and in handling various scenarios of variable complexity without collisions. The implementation of advanced trajectory planning and coordination algorithms significantly improves the adaptability and autonomy of robotic systems, allowing robots to predict and react to the movements of their counterparts and changes in the environment in real time. This capability is crucial for maintaining a safe and efficient work environment. The importance of synchronization and effective communication between robots is highlighted to avoid collisions and optimize trajectories and cycle times. All tests were conducted in virtual environments, allowing for the evaluation and refinement of the performance of the robots’ performance under controlled conditions. The positive results obtained in the simulations suggest that the system is well suited for future practical implementation in industrial and manufacturing applications, such as chemical handling, collaborative welding, quality inspection, among others. These findings underscore the potential of the cooperative SCARA system to improve the efficiency and safety in industrial applications using advanced algorithms and control techniques, establishing a solid foundation for future research and development in the field of cooperative robotics.

The Impact of Facility Management Practice on Business Performance in Selected RETAIL Markets in Port Harcourt, Rivers State

The need to contribute to a deeper understanding of the multifaceted impact of facility management practices on retail business performance in Port Harcourt, Rivers State Nigeria necessitated this study. The aim is to ascertain the impact of facility management on the overall performance of the retail markets. The research endeavours to evaluate the prevailing facility management practices within selected retail markets using a mixed methods research methodology to ensure a thorough exploration of the subject matter. The study population comprised various stakeholders within the retail market sector, including retail market owners, housekeepers, porters, vendors, and facility managers. A sample size of 161 respondents was selected to represent the diverse perspectives and experiences within the retail sector. Data collection involved a combination of qualitative and quantitative techniques. Qualitative data were gathered through interviews, allowing for in-depth exploration of participants' perceptions and experiences. Meanwhile, quantitative data were collected via structured surveys. The study finds that facility management practices has not improved customer satisfaction or employee productivity in selected retail market as respondents were very dissatisfied or dissatisfied with the current level of facility support provided for various operational aspects of the supermarket. Findings indicate that facility management practices such as provision of safe environment, standard of cleaning in facility management, relevance of provided equipment, high performance/ productivity risk mitigation, responsiveness of the facility management team in addressing customer issues, effective utilization of space can impact the overall performance of the retail market. The study concludes that effective facility management practices is a determinant of success in the competitive landscape of the retail market and recommends the setting up of clear standards for facilities management practice in the supermarkets, effective communication with the users/owners, implementation of preventive maintenance, adoption of smart technologies in retail market facility management plan, and the establishment of a facility management department to coordinate uses and services of facilities in the retail market buildings.

Food Safety Risk and Visual Attention: The Moderating Effect of Prototype Perception and Social Distance

ABSTRACT This study examines the relationship between food safety risk perception (FSRP) and social similarity, utilizing eye-tracking to uncover how consumers process information on food labels. Central to our inquiry is that perceived similarity influences how individuals assess and react to food safety risks. Our research posits that individuals who see a high degree of similarity with others in their social circles are more attentive to food safety risks. We conducted two food label experiments, one focusing on safety labels and the other on nutritional information. Findings indicate that heightened perceptions of social similarity (prototype perception and social distance) enhance the impact of food labels (safety labels and nutritional information) on food safety risk assessments (decision-making process and product choice), manifesting in increased visual attention to these labels. This revelation underscores the significance of social factors in shaping food safety behaviors and offers a new perspective for designing more effective food safety communication. Our work contributes to the academic discourse on food safety and social psychology and provides practical insights for public health messaging strategies.

Let's talk about radiation dose and radiation protection in children.

Children are more sensitive to ionizing radiation than adults. Even though the risk is very low, exposure from radiological examinations can possibly cause them long-term side effects. Recent large epidemiological studies involving children and young adults have added evidence suggesting that even small doses of radiation, such as those from computed tomography scans, might slightly increase the risk of developing cancer later in life. Therefore, even though radiologic studies are essential for an accurate diagnosis and management of various conditions, it is crucial to minimize radiation exposure. This article addresses radiation protection for children in the medical use of ionizing radiation and it is set in the context of the European legislative framework regarding radiation protection. It advocates for a holistic approach to paediatric radiological tests. This approach includes the key principles of radiation protection, such as the justification of imaging procedures supported by referral guidelines, as well as the optimization of techniques (according to the ALARA principle) and effective communication with parents about the benefits and the risks of radiologic procedures. Protecting children from unnecessary radiation is not only a technical challenge, but also a moral obligation and a legal requirement.

Politics and dinner tables do mix! exploring the role of consumers’ political orientation in plant-based food promotion at restaurants

Plant-based food refers to a diet focused on consuming primarily plant-derived ingredients for health, environmental, and ethical reasons. Since there is a growing recognition regarding the significant correlation between sustainable consumption and consumers' political inclinations, this study aimed to identify effective ways to promote plant-based food in a restaurant setting by analyzing the relative persuasiveness of advertisements in terms of three variables: consumer political orientation (liberal vs. conservative), regulatory focus (promotion vs. prevention), and message type (health vs. taste). This study confirms that there is a significant two-way effect between political orientation and regulatory focus on consumers’ attitude and purchase intentions toward plant-based food. Additionally, this two-way effect between political orientation and regulatory focus varies depending on the type of message. The mediating role of goal relevance was confirmed as well. The study provides implications for effective marketing communication in the context of plant-based food promotion in the foodservice industry.

Analysis of the National Formulary Drug Supply Chain with Its Availability in the Pharmacy Installation of the Government General Hospital (RSUD) Dr. Sitanala Tangerang City

This study explores the pharmaceutical supply chain management of the National Formulary at RSUP Dr. Sitanala in Tangerang City, aiming to identify obstacles to drug availability and formulate effective and efficient solutions. Acknowledging quality healthcare as a fundamental human right and a critical investment for a nation's future, this research emphasizes the importance of high-quality healthcare services. These services encompass not only treatment but also health promotion and disease prevention through the adoption of clean and healthy living habits. Drug availability is a major pillar in the provision of quality healthcare services. Effective and efficient management of the pharmaceutical supply chain, particularly regarding National Formulary drugs, is crucial in ensuring the availability of medications at healthcare facilities. This research employs a comprehensive analysis of the supply chain processes at RSUP Dr. Sitanala, examining stages such as drug selection, demand planning, procurement, receipt, storage, distribution, drug control, therapy monitoring, prescription preparation, drug dispensation, and medication administration. The study's methodology involves a case study approach, integrating theoretical management principles and interdisciplinary pharmacy management with compliance to regulations, as outlined in Permenkes No. 76 of 2016. Findings from RSUP Dr. Sitanala indicate that the hospital's pharmaceutical management practices align with contemporary health and pharmacy management theories, emphasizing structured systems, stringent verification, and effective interprofessional communication to ensure medication safety and efficacy. The study identifies challenges in information technology and interdisciplinary coordination as areas needing improvement. Nonetheless, a commitment to continuous improvement and adherence to regulatory standards reflects RSUP Dr. Sitanala's dedication to enhancing the quality of pharmaceutical management and healthcare services. The implications of this research extend beyond RSUP Dr. Sitanala, offering valuable recommendations for improving drug supply chain management in other healthcare institutions in Indonesia. By enhancing access to and the quality of healthcare services, this study contributes to the broader goal of achieving the highest possible level of health for individuals, reflecting the perspective of human rights and investment in the nation's future health.