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Dementia PICO Analysis Method
Part I: PICO analysis of research topic
Step 1: Frame clinical question using PICO method
P: the patients include people with dementia and psychosis
I: the anticipated intervention is to utilize typical antipsychotic drugs
C: the current standard or comparison group is atypical antipsychotics
O: the desired outcome is to have less mortality rates for elderly people with dementia and psychosis
The PICO question basically stands for patient, intervention, comparison and outcome (Elkins, 2014).
Part II: Search strategy
The PICO question is as follows: In elderly patients who have dementia and psychosis (P), does treatment with typical antipsychotics (I) or atypical antipsychotics (C) result in less mortality (O).
Step 1: Resources utilized to find articles
A number of scholarly articles relating to the identified issue are identified. The resources that were used in finding the articles that relate to the topic include the following: handbooks, electronic databases research, encyclopaedias, relevant books, and reputable journals.
Step 2: Search terms and criteria
With regard to search terms and criteria that were utilized, the search terms include the following: dementia, mortality, psychosis, atypical antipsychotics, and typical psychotics. The inclusion criteria was as follows: scholarly peer-reviewed journal articles only, articles not older than 5 years, articles that are published in the English language, articles that focus on dementia and psychosis among the elderly population, and article that reports on primary research.
Step 3: Boolean search strings
With regard to the exclusion criteria, the articles that would be excluded are as follows: articles that are older than 5 years, articles not published in English, and articles that do not focus on the elderly patients with dementia. Using different Boolean search strings, keywords would be combined with operators like OR, NOT as well as AND in order to generate additional results that are relevant. For this research, the Boolean search strings that would be utilized include the following: atypical antipsychotics and psychosis, atypical antipsychotics and dementia, typical antipsychotics and dementia, typical antipsychotics and psychosis. Therefore, the search results would be limited only to the two keywords.
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Part III: Analysis of literature
Step 1: Summary of five articles
The following 5 articles in the table below were selected from the research effort.
Table 1: Summary of analyzed articles
Citation
Conceptual framework / theory
Main finding
Research Method
Strengths of study
Weaknesses of study
Level of evidence
Ballard, C., Creese, B., Corbett, A., & Aarsland, D. (2011). Atypical antipsychotics for the treatment of behavioural and psychological symptoms in dementia, with a particular focus on longer term outcomes and mortality. Expert Opinion on Drug Safety, 10(1): 35-43
Not specified
Atypical antipsychotics medications provide modest benefits up to twelve weeks /short term treatment of psychosis and dementia. Nonetheless, these benefits should be balanced against the risk of major adverse events such as increased death. With longer term prescribing, there are clear benefits, but the risk of death also increase.
Review of existing studies. The authors provide a summary of the evidence that pertain to safety and efficacy from short-term randomized controlled trials, as well as main findings from case register studies
Study is thorough. Presents both benefits and shortcomings of atypical antipsychotic drugs. The review provides an up-to-date and balanced overview of the safety concerns and effectiveness that relate to atypical antipsychotics in elderly patients with dementia, giving a full overview of mortality risk
The study only focuses on atypical antipsychotic drugs and does not also look into the safety concerns and efficacy of typical antipsychotics.
High level
Haddad, P. M., & Sharma, S. G. (2012). Adverse effects of atypical antipsychotics: Differential risk and clinical implications. CNS Drugs, 21(11): 911-936
Not specified
Broad statements that compare the comparative risk of specific adverse effects between conventional and atypical antipsychotics are mainly insignificant. Instead, comparisons need to be made between particular typical and particular atypical antipsychotic drugs.
The authors reviewed various studies including post marketing, surveillance studies, and observational studies and randomized controlled trials.
The study is comprehensive, thorough and up-to-date
A small number of studies were reviewed
High level
Piersanti, M., Capannolo, M., Turchetti, M., Serroni, N., De Berardis, D., Evangelista, P., Costantini, P., Orsini, A., Rossi, A., & Maggio, R. (2014). Increase in mortality rate in patients with dementia treated with atypical antipsychotics: A cohort study in outpatients in Central Italy. Riv Psichiatr, 49(1): 34-40
Not specified
Using atypical antipsychotics to treat dementia amongst older adults is linked to a higher rate of mortality.
A cohort study was conducted that comprised 696 elderly patients with Alzheimer
The study recommends new approaches for managing dementia to replace the use of atypical antipsychotic drugs which have potential risks of mortality
A small sample size was used and the study was carried out within a single hospital. This affects the generalizability of the findings
Medium level
Rochon, P. A., Gruneir, A., Gill, S. S., Wu, W., Fischer, H. D., Bronskill, S. E., & … Gurwitz, J. H. (2013). Older Men with Dementia Are at Greater Risk than Women of Serious Events After Initiating Antipsychotic Therapy. Journal Of The American Geriatrics Society, 61(1), 55-61. doi:10.1111/jgs.12061
Not specified
Shortly after initiating oral atypical antipsychotic drug, the likelihood of developing a major event in elderly people with dementia was high.
This was a population-based, retrospective cohort study.
A large sample size was used that comprised 21,526 elderly men and women with dementia
The study had more women that. Women were 13,760 while the number of men was 7,766.
High level
Schneider, L. S., Dagerman, K. S., & Insel, P. (2012). Risk of death with atypical antipsychotic drug treatment for dementia – Meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials, JAMA, Journal of the American Medical Association, 294(15): 1934-1943
Atypical antipsychotic medicines might be linked to a slight increased likelihood for death in comparison to placebo where typical antipsychotic drugs were used.
The authors assessed the evidence for high death rates from atypical antipsychotic medications for patients who have dementia. The data sources were obtained from Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, MEDLINE, and meetings and presentations.
A large sample size is used hence the findings could be generalized. There a total of 5,101 participants
Some very old data materials from the 1960s were used which may not be relevant for use today
High level
Step 2: History and purpose of research question
Every antipsychotic drug has warnings of increased mortality for elderly patients (Schneider, Dagerman & Insel, 2012). Antipsychotic medications are broadly utilized in managing psychological and behavioural symptoms in dementia in spite of concerns as regards their safety (Ballard et al., 2011; Piersanti et al., 2014). Compared to typical or conventional antipsychotic drugs, atypical antipsychotic drugs are linked to a statistically significant rise in the likelihood of mortality for older men and women who have dementia (Haddad & Sharma, 2012).
The purpose of the research question is to find out whether the use of typical antipsychotic medication, which is the intervention, results in less mortality rates than atypical antipsychotic medication, which is the comparison group, in elderly patients who have dementia and psychosis.
Step 3: Strengths and weaknesses of existing literature
The strengths of the existing literature is that there are studies which focus mainly on the atypical antipsychotics and others that focus mainly in typical/conventional antipsychotics and their correlation with mortality. The weakness of the existing literature is that there are no studies that compare typical antipsychotics and atypical antipsychotics on the rates of mortality on elderly patients with dementia and psychosis (Rochon et al., 2013).
Step 4: Gap in current literature
At the moment, the gap in current literature is that there are no studies which have focused specifically on the association of atypical and typical antipsychotic medications on the rates of mortality among the older adults who have dementia.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the PICO question for the research study is as follows: In elderly patients who have dementia and psychosis (P), does treatment with typical antipsychotics (I) or atypical antipsychotics (C) result in less mortality (O). The purpose of the research question is to find out whether the use of typical antipsychotic medication results in less mortality rates than atypical antipsychotic medication in elderly patients who have dementia and psychosis. The resources used to find articles included electronic databases research, relevant books, and reputable journals. The search terms that were utilized include dementia, mortality, psychosis, atypical antipsychotics, and typical psychotics.
References
Ballard, C., Creese, B., Corbett, A., & Aarsland, D. (2011). Atypical antipsychotics for the treatment of behavioural and psychological symptoms in dementia, with a particular focus on longer term outcomes and mortality. Expert Opinion on Drug Safety, 10(1): 35-43
Piersanti, M., Capannolo, M., Turchetti, M., Serroni, N., De Berardis, D., Evangelista, P., Costantini, P., Orsini, A., Rossi, A., & Maggio, R. (2014). Increase in mortality rate in patients with dementia treated with atypical antipsychotics: A cohort study in outpatients in Central Italy. Riv Psichiatr, 49(1): 34-40.
Rochon, P. A., Gruneir, A., Gill, S. S., Wu, W., Fischer, H. D., Bronskill, S. E., & … Gurwitz, J. H. (2013). Older Men with Dementia Are at Greater Risk than Women of Serious Events After Initiating Antipsychotic Therapy. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 61(1), 55-61. doi:10.1111/jgs.12061
Schneider, L. S., Dagerman, K. S., & Insel, P. (2012). Risk of death with atypical antipsychotic drug treatment for dementia – Meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials, JAMA, Journal of the American Medical Association, 294(15): 1934-1943
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Abuse and Neglect
Every individual has the right to live safely and free from abuse and neglect. However, it is not always that every person lives this kind of life. People often fall into situations where they are vulnerable to abuse and neglect. It is important to note that abuse and neglect happens because people use power and intimidation to control another person’s life. Most of the cases of abuse and neglect are perpetrated by the people known to the victims.
However, strangers can also cause abuse to the people they do not know. The abuse that comes from the people known to the victims happens because the victim trusts their assailant. A feeling of trust and belief in the assailant makes it easy for victims to fall into abuse and trust quite easily.
There are many forms of abuse. Sexual abuses are acts that victims do not consent to, but are forced to participate in them. Physical abuses are in the form of assaults, slapping or hitting, just to mention a few forms. There is psychological abuse, which is in form of emotional abuse and verbal abuse, controlling the victim and threatening the person. Domestic abuse comes from a family member or relative. A victim can be abused through discrimination.
This kind of abuse causes unfair treatment of people from a different race, gender, religion, tribe, age or sexual orientation. People can also be abused financially, where one is forced to use or spend their money in ways that they do not feel are appropriate. Neglect is another form of abuse. This form of abuse means that the victim is left to suffer without proper care. In other words, when one fails to receive what they really need from their primary care giver, they are said to be neglected (NHS 2015).
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Task 1.1
The victims of abuse show certain signs that prove they are in an abusive relationship. One appears withdrawn and quiet. It is important to note that even for the people who are quiet, there is a form of withdrawal that is beyond the normal. The victims could become angry and aggressive, even in situations that do not require such emotions. In the case of John, mentioned in this case study, a victim can become unkempt and dirty.
In some extreme cases, victims have bruises, wounds and scars, to serve as proof that they are in an abusive relationship (CDC 2015). People like John have no power to stand up for themselves and fight back. This makes them vulnerable to harm inflicted by others.
Task 1.2
There are several factors that can lead to people becoming victims of abuse and neglect. Disability can cause a victim to suffer issues of neglect and abuse. This is because they have no power or capacity to do much for themselves. Secondly, the victims of abuse lack the capacity to understand their situation. For instance, a child has no capacity to comprehend what goes on in their home. This can cause the parents to be abusive to the child, knowing that the child lacks power to do anything about it.
The third factor that can cause people to become victims of abuse and neglect is the lack of physical, emotional or financial strength. For instance, a married woman who has no financial capacity to leave her abusive e spouse can become a victim of domestic abuse. In addition, a woman lacks the physical strength to fight a man, which means that she could become a victim of abuse (Kleinman 2015).
Task 1.3
Child abuse and violence against these young ones has dated back to the times before civilization ever took place. The culture and socially acceptable norms guide parents and guardians on the best way to bring up their children (Sperry and Widom 2013). One culture could advocate for disciplining the child by speaking and withdrawing privileges. Another culture believes that children need to be beaten, in order to instill discipline. Different cultures have different acceptable forms of parenting. The culture of a people serves as a source of beliefs and behavior and the concepts of how people should conduct themselves.
The diminishing status of the child in the parent-child relationship (WHO 2014) has affected the trust that should exist between children and their parents. Stalker and McArthur (2012) explain that social factors such as poverty can lead to abuse and neglect. Another social factor that can lead to abuse and neglect is social exclusion (Pillemer, Burnes, Riffin and Lachs 2016). The society tends to keep away from private issues. This forces many cases of domestic abuse to go unreported. Most people tend to argue that personal issues are not communal, which means that the victim suffers alone. Often, the society has the capacity to help the person, but people keep away from such matters for the fear of becoming victims.
M1
In response to the concern presented to the manager by Tina, the manager can take the responsibility by calling the parents to a meeting. One of the ideas to have in mind is that the manager has a role to play in the life of every child that comes into their facility. The manager can act as the guardian of the child by asking the parents to speak with a counselor about their issues.
This will help them to work on their frustrations, which they do not have to pass out on a three year old child. Secondly, the counselor can also call child social workers in case she sees that her approach is not yielding any result. A child social worker as well as a children advocate can help the manager to address the issue by having the child placed in foster care.
D1
Change means transforming practices that tend to be harmful to a vulnerable person. It is very important for organizations to change their practices. Many organizations can change certain unacceptable regulations and shape norms and new systems that promote health and safety. Another strategy that the nursery can use is to work with policy makers to give their suggestions and views about the issues that children go through in abusive situations. Policy makers can discuss and approve health and safety policies that protect the vulnerable groups from abuse and neglect (Promising Practice Network 2014).
Task 2.1
There are legislations that protect children and vulnerable people from abuse. The Care Act of 2014 places a general duty on the local authority to promote general wellbeing of individuals. The wellbeing of a person covers their physical and mental health, as well as their emotional well being. In addition, the local authority is mandated to ensure that the personal dignity of an individual is upheld, which means that people have to respect each other despite their age or gender.
This act protects the individual from abuse and neglect. The strength of this legislation is that it gives the local authority the capacity to ensure the individual has their wellbeing protected. There is the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 and the Protection of Freedom Bills. This Act was passed to help avoid harm or risk of harm to children or the vulnerable adults. It prevents the people who are unsuitable to work with these vulnerable people (SCIE 2013).
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Task 2.2
There are professionals who deal with issues of abuse. Although many people tend to shy away from reporting child abuse cases. The fear that many people feel is that they will be breaking up a home. Others fear that the violent persons might start attacking them if they learn of the role they played in breaking a cycle of abuse. Another fear is that the report will not make a difference in the life of a child. However, it is better to be safe when it comes to the issue of a child. It is unfortunate that most people would rather be quiet about an abusive home than be involved (Committee on Child Maltreatment Research 2014).
The professionals that can be involved are child care providers and social workers. Child care providers could be in the setting of a school or a hospital. Observation serves as one of the best way to know a child who is abused. It is difficult for a child to hide their emotions and fears. Children who are victims of an abuse will often show fear on their faces. This is one of the signs to look out for in a child who is in an abusive home. Social workers are the agents who intervene in the cases of abused children. The social worker can take and place a child in a different home once the case of abuse has been proven to be true.
M2
It is important to understand the consequences of child abuse and neglect. A child who grows in such an environment is prone to physical and mental growth. In addition, a child can become hopeless about having a good life. A child living in an abusive home can have a very low self-esteem. The cognitive development of a child in an abusive home can be delayed. When these children are compared to their peers, these children often grow slower (Powell and Uppal 2012). In addition, their academic performance is poor.
The government can work with social workers and institutions of learning to reach out to the children who are in abusive homes. The fact is that every child has a right to having a good life. A good life, in this case, does not mean that the child has material property provided to them. The basic needs that are very important to a child are food, shelter, clothing and love. Children need a lot of love for them to cultivate a positive attitude towards life. The government should ensure that every child receives these things.
When one considers the reaction of the mother, it is clear that she avoids talking about the issues she faces. One of the strategies that can help the manager to deal with the issue of abuse is to separate the mother from the source of the harm. It looks like the mother is in a place where the issues she faces instil fear in her, to the extent that she is not able to defend her own son. The manager can ask the local authority to provide the mother and the child with some form of protection until their case is solved by the social workers who work with children.
The manager can work with the mother to understand the reason as to why she is reluctant to speak about the bruises that Tina reports to the office. From the mother’s point of view, the manager can address the issue armed with information from the guardian of the child. In addition, the manager can speak with the child so as to understand the situation in which they live. A child, at the age of John, does not know how to lie. This means that the information that John gives to the manager can be dependable. This information can be used by the manager and the concern parties to ensure that John gets a change of environment, which will ensure his own safety and health are protected.
D2
The nursery needs to recognize that their staff members need to understand how to handle cases of child abuse. The manager can organize training for their staff members. This will increase their knowledge on how to handle issues such as John’s within the school setting. The manager can organize with child-related organizations to address issues of handling children from abusive environments. These training workshops can employ the use of a trained social worker to pass information to the other staff members about recognizing and addressing the signs of child abuse. A professional in children’s issues can also help the staff members to know how to communicate with children.
Task 3.1
One strategy to use in addressing child abuse in the community is fostering relationships, coalitions and networks with different child organizations (CDC 2015). This means that the community together with other organizations helps address this issue. In this case study, John is a three year old boy. His care giver, Tina notices that he comes to school dirty and unkempt. Tina observes that John is not interacting well with his peers. The care giver also notices that the boy has bruises on his arms. When the care giver asks the mother, she evades this discussion. Tina and the manager can seek help from the other members of the community. This means that the care givers can use the other community members to face this issue.
The area networks that can be created to help these children. One of the arms of this network is the local authority. In the case of John, he has attended school with bruises. This means that John has been a victim of physical violence. The local authority can investigate the family from which John comes from. It is illegal to inflict harm on a child. As such, the local authority should confront this family in order to protect the child from such abuse.
There are religious groups that can work with the nursery to help the child and the family to heal from this abuse. It is important to understand the religious group with which John and his family associate. The hospital and healthcare providers can also form part of the network that deals with child abuse and neglect. It is important to involve the Ministries that deal with the welfare of Children. All these bodies alongside the nursery can assist John and his mother through the situations they have to face.
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Task 3.2
There is a disadvantage to engaging one approach. The adoption of one approach means that the problem is dealt with at the individual level. This means that the broader scale will remain the same. It is important to change the societal norms and systems. It will therefore mean that the settings in the society will have to go through changes or instance; the people have to learn the effects of child abuse on the child as well as the society. For instance, a child from an abusive environment tends to grow depressed and with a negative image of life. As such, these people tend to be poor performers even at the workplace. If the society can change such issues, then it means that the community benefits in a more profitable way.
It is important to combine approaches, which will address the child abuse issue. The community needs to strengthen the individual’s knowledge and skill in combating child abuse cases. This could include demonstrating to individuals how to promote safety within schools and the society. For instance, it is important to know how to deal with a parent who argues that their disciplining methods are not abusive, yet their child has bruises on their body.
The promotion of community education (Powell and Uppal 2012) in such matters helps the entire community know and use their acquired knowledge to deal with these issues. This strategy uses reaching groups to educate the community. These groups provide the community with information and resources on how to promote health and safety for the vulnerable groups in the society (Promising Practice Network 2014).
Task 3.3
In many cases, child abuse cases happen to children who cannot stand up for themselves despite the pains they face (WHO 2014). Many of the children from abusive environments have to live with threats from their assailants. Often, they are forced to keep quiet about their ordeals. The assailants often threaten the victims to remaining quiet about their attacks. As such, children fear the consequences of sharing their issues with a person who is not their primary care giver. The staff members need to learn how to address these children, giving them hope and assurance of their safety. This means that the nursery can train its staff members on how to handle young children who live in fear.
There is need to constantly review and update the practices that are used in protecting children from abuse. The government and the policy makers need to create collaborations with people who work with children. This will ensure that every concern party makes a significant contribution to the policies and laws that protect children from abuse. It is the responsibility of the community to ensure that every case of child abuse reaches the relevant authority. This means that the community can work together to protect the children and the vulnerable people from abuse and neglect.
In order for the community to understand how they can address the issues of child abuse and neglect, they need to be equipped with information and resources in this field. Community social and health workers can organize programs that teach the community members on the measures to take when they learn of a case of child abuse. In addition, parents can take education and training programs to show them how to handle themselves in a case of child abuse. People need to grow out of the fear that their intervention can bring about destruction in a family. Protecting a vulnerable person from abuse gives the victim a chance to have a better life.
Conclusion
The cases of child abuse have been in existence in our society for a very long time. It is important to know the organizations and the networks that one can use to ensure that these children grow in safe and healthy environments. The groups that are susceptible to abuse need protection from assailants. The local law enforcement needs to get involved in the systems that help ease the pain for these people.
In order to help a victim of abuse and or neglect, it is important t understand the type of abuse they go through. The signs of abuse are not very obvious, especially when physical evidence is absent. It is therefore important to have knowledge on all the signs of abuse, before any assistance can be rendered to the victims.
Pillener, K., Burnes, D., Riffin, C., and Lachs, M. 2016. ‘Elder Abuse: Global Situation, Risk Factors and Prevention Strategies.’ The Gerontologist 56(2): S194-S205.
Powell, J. and Uppal, E., 2012. Safeguarding Babies and Young Children: A Guide for Early Years Professionals, Berkshire, McGraw Hill Education.
Sperry D. M. and Widom, C. S. 2013. ‘Child Abuse and Neglect, Social Support, and Psychopathology in Adulthood: A Prospective Investigation.’ Child Abuse and Neglect Vol 37(6): 415-425.
Stalker, K. and McArthur, K., 2012. ‘Child Abuse, Child Protection and Disabled Children: A Review of Recent Research.’ Child Abuse Review Vol 21 (1): 24-40.
Human Resource Management in Health and Social Care
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Human Resource Management in Health and Social Care
Introduction
Recruiting efficient workers remains an important factor to the success of every organization. Consequently, organizations adopt approaches involving training and developing the most effective employees. Within the health and social care fields it is imperative measures aimed at understanding systems used to monitor and promote the development of employees are integrated. The paper explores the various legislative frameworks of human resource management that must be observed during recruitment processes. This includes exploring leadership theories which can promote effective team spirit. This is particularly important to progress the healthcare organization leadership and management of the employees as well as the recruitment processes.
Task 1
Factors to Be Considered in Planning and Recruiting Individuals
Many health institutions today have significantly increased their attention towards human resource management. Human resource is the major principle of health systems alongside physical capital (Sumelius, Björkman, Ehrnrooth, Mäkelä, & Smale, pp. 569. 2014). Human resources in relation to health can be termed as diversified non-clinical and clinical staff in charge of both private and public health care. It is important to consider the fact that the most significant input in the health system is its presentation and the benefits realized from these systems.
This basically relies on the skills and knowledge of the workers in the health care departments. It is also equally important to note that the workers require motivation so as to be able to offer quality services (Sumelius.et, al.2014). As it the case in physical and human resources, it is equally important to keep equilibrium between caretakers and health promoters to make sure that success is achieved.
Due to the differences between physical and human capital, it is crucial that the later should be managed in an extremely different way from the physical capital. It is also vital to note that the connection between health care and human resource is extremely complicated and should be studied further.
The cost incurred in health care facilities is rising radically due to an increased cost and number of disposable equipment’s and drugs. In cases where these facilities are funded publically, it has become practically hard for them to employ and maintain efficient health workers (Sumelius.et, al.2014). It is essential to consider that human resource management should be urbanized so that a suitable balance between the workforce contribution and the capability of health workers to perform successfully and professionally can be achieved. It is important to know that those practicing in the health care institutions should access high-quality equipment’s in order for them to be efficient.
The most important factor that forecast on HR requirements includes turnover rates, financial capacity and turnover rates. Human beings are social beings and thus cannot live or work in isolation. Human resource management in today’s human resource is one of the critical fields in healthcare as it involves management of an extensive and intense field. The HRM is accorded the capacity to deal with management issues in terms of Human resources (Sumelius.et, al.2014).
Strategic Human resource management therefore deals with an organizations most valuable asset that are required in the management of an organization purposefully because this resource aids in individually and collectively supporting in the achievement of an organizations objectives as well as its productivity.
The Relevancy of Legislative Measures and Policy Frameworks of UK In the Selection, Recruitment and Employment Process of Personnel at Hounslow Care Ltd
It is necessary that each and every country has its own rules and policies that guide them in the recruitment, selection and employment of personnel. Therefore, it is vital for Hounslow care ltd to apply related policies. It is important to note that the prevailing laws in the United Kingdom gives equal opportunities for every citizen irrespective of the race, religion, community or even gender.
The United Kingdom government provides laws and policies that govern the employment, selection and recruitment of a new workforce. The major laws involved in Hounslow care ltd includes The Race Relation Act, Sex Discrimination Act, Employment policy, legislation Employment Relations and lastly but not least The Race Relation (Colvin, & Gough, pp. 1019. 2015). Legislation Employment and Employment policy helps to ensure that equal wages are paid to the employees and also enforces the tribunal methods of employment are adhered to.
The Sex Discrimination Act in this case protects the employees from discrimination within this organization considering the fact that those seeking for job opportunities are frequently discriminated directly or indirectly. Direct discrimination may entail rejecting their training, denying them a promotion, giving hostile conditions or even worse, rejecting people because of their secluded characteristic (Colvin, & Gough, pp. 1019. 2015). On the other hand, indirect discrimination occurs in situations whereby the terms and the policies of the organization do not favor those individuals with particular protected characteristics.
The Employment Act principally deals with conflict declaration and achievement of the required principles of employment. Hounslow Care ltd is currently focusing on employing more qualified personnel that caters for the whole society. In order for them to effectively achieve this, they must uphold and sustain applications primarily from the people that are not represented in the institution (Colvin, & Gough, pp. 1019. 2015). Additionally, there is a need of supporting the applicants who are bound to feel that equality and justice is not achieved within a recruitment process so that can easily have their issues addressed.
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Evaluation of Different Approaches Used to Ensure the Selection of the Best Personnel’s at Hounslow Care Ltd
In achieving this, it is essential to take cognizance of the two main procedures that should be followed during selection of workers. This includes interviewing candidates through conducting tests in the centers. An additional approach includes evaluating and ensuring that the candidate is well equipped and can offer high quality services (Hollenbeck, & Jamieson, pp.380. 2015).Therefore, it is highly essential for Houslow Care ltd and other health institutions to adhere to these approaches so that they can be able to choose qualified workers.
It is important to know that conducting interviews is the most crucial step when choosing employees. When conducting interviews, the interviewer talks about the candidate’s impersonation and can make any conclusion (Hollenbeck, & Jamieson, pp.380. 2015). The main advantage of interviewing is that the candidate can easily be evaluated by the interviewer with no possible mistakes since it is one on one.
Additionally, this aids in choosing the best out of the candidates since the interviewer is able to distinguish a more confidence candidate. Another approach that can aid in choosing excellent employees is the use of tests where every candidate conducts a test concerning the type of job that is being offered. It is usually assumed that the outcome of the test depicts the job applicant’s mindset.
(M1). Critical analysis of the different approaches of the recruitment process employed in recruiting individuals at Hounslow Care Ltd
In developing an effective approach of recruitment aimed at aiding in the employment of individuals at Hounslow Care Ltd, it is significant that the job description is clearly developed and that give information on the detailed aspects of the job that include the responsibilities, pay, and reporting requirements. On the other hand, there is a need of developing a skills inventory and a job posting strategy. This clearly gives a depiction of the systematic interview process to the candidates as well.
Task 2
2.1 How Individuals Interact In Groups within Health and Social Care Settings
2.1.1: Interaction Stage as one of the Faces of Forming
Armstrong believes that the forming phase implies to the high reliance on leadership as an approach for guidance. Employees within these systems await information on determining what is new with everyone within this system, thus retaining their selves’ as cautious, polite and well organized (Armstrong & Laschinger, pp.134, 2006). During this point, the individuals learn to cope with the opportunities and challenges ad try to agree to specific matters in handling tasks, and responsibilities effectively.
In order to ensure that interaction and communication is effective between the group members and the co-workers, it is vital that everyone acquires the opportunity to share thoughts, information, and ideas with the aim of knowing each other.
2.1.2: Storming
Armstrong alleges that various ideologies are determined to differ within this step for deliberation. Within the step of storming, teams or groups are determined to identify various issues and derive approaches of effectively solving these issues. Storming therefore remains one of the vital steps for a group’s growth (Armstrong & Laschinger, pp.134, 2006). However, this may turn out to be a challenge for individuals within the team who have an issue with disputes.
This therefore determines the fact that every individual within the team needs to reflect patience and have the capacity of bearing to the issues since avoiding the element of tolerance and patience within a group may turn out to be a challenge in achieving success within an organization. The efforts of the managers and the supervisors are therefore essential in directing leadership and behavioral patterns within the process.
2.1.2 Norming
The Norming stage is another essential stage that allows the group members to agree, frankly discuss issues in regards to their views and ideologies with the aim of adjusting to the behavioral patterns and attitudes of the others with the aim of developing an effective work habit (Rodgers, pp. 373.2014).
This therefore sees the members of a team agree in the rules and values including the change of methods and the inclusion of professional patterns. Managers and supervisors are bound to turn out as more energetic with the capacity to improve more.
2.2. Approaches Used By the Staff within Different Levels in Promoting Efficient Team Work at Hounslow Care Home Ltd.
It is imperative to determine the fact that there is not a single developed approach that may be considered as essential in working with a team collaboratively (Rodgers, pp. 373.2014). This is attributed to the fact that teams are unique and need to locate their own collaborative working methods in an effect manner. In consideration of Hounslow Care Home Ltd, there is a need to take consideration of the following approaches in establishing an effective team working relationship.
There is a need to ensure that the core objectives of a team and understood explicitly and accepted by every individual.
There is a need to consider the diversity of personality’s ad skills as one of the essential factors in ensuring a team is effectively working. This therefore requires that the members of a team employ their strengths in supplementing the weaknesses of others.
It is important that the levels of transparency and understanding about the responsibilities of the employees is understood clearly.
The members also need to discuss about some of the different subjects that allow them to meet at a point of agreement. This requires that they are provided with the opportunity that grants them social time, a factor that opens communication.
Cultivating trust within the members of a team through the spending of personal time with the team members is essential in understanding the team members.
Engaging the group members within activities that are socially inclined mitigates the barriers that may hamper the performance of the team.
D.3 Creative Thinking in the Planning, Development and Building of an Effective Team in Hounslow Care Home Ltd
In this case, one of the essential elements that I considered in developing an effective group in this organization was to ensure that the diversity of the group members was considered in the formation of the group. This helped in blending different individuals with different traits and abilities within the group, a factor that developed unity of purpose within the group.
Task 3
3.1 How the Performances of Employees Working Within the Health/Social Care Can Be Appraised
The element of performance management entails a process that seeks to establish a shared understanding on the aspects that need to be achieved and the manner in which they can be achieved in managing people, a factor that increases the chances of an organization in achieving success (Downey, Lee, & Stough, pp. 280.2011). This therefore determines the fact that several approaches developed to measure performance within an individual in the health care sector and social organization.
The approach in this case involves the improvement of the candidates, marketing and performances, a factor that determines the appropriate avenues of improving the performance levels of individuals, the evaluation of specified standards through the inclusion of tests and fixing of standards that need to be achieved. The manner in which performances of individuals are measured is termed as performance appraisal (Downey, Lee, & Stough, pp. 280.2011).
There are five primary approaches of performance evaluation that includes: measurement, feedback, inclusion of positive reinforcement, the sharing of ideas and reaching an agreement. Measurement means the achievement of an organization goals established, with the individual performance level requiring appraisal.
When this information is provided, the individuals within an organization are determined in reference to their performance and progress, a factor that provides feedback (Downey, Lee, & Stough, pp. 280.2011). Positive feedback in relation to criticisms needs to be made in regards to the matters that need to be developed, a factor that initiates a positive and constructive reinforcement.
The exchange and sharing of ideas within the next phase in a situation where challenges are faced is measured with the aim of determining the way of recovering performance. Agreement determines the last phase in which employees are considered to understand their objectives and targets and how these may be achieved.
3.2 Individual Training and Development Needs and How They Can Be Identified At Hounslow Care Home Ltd.
In order to identify the development and training needs of the employees, the organization needs to re-evaluate their institution’s business goals with the aim of addressing the crucial activities that include the monitoring of performance quality, the assessment of problem domains, the evaluation of weak points and appraisal (Van Bogaert, Peremans, Diltour, Van heusden, Dilles, Van Rompaey, & Havens, pp.12. 2016). It is essential to consider the fact that everyone has flows and need to keep updates on where there is a need of expanding their knowledge base.
After a close observation and measurement of the employee’s performance and progress, the outcomes are achieved that enables the organization to understand the population’s training needs and what is required during training. In this case, having a clear understanding of the employees at Hounslow care Home Ltd helps in developing appropriate training approaches for the employees.
Hounslow care Home Ltd needs to provide the employees with appropriate training resource’s that are aimed at completing the learning process and that advances the aspect of knowledge acquisition and improves the skills expertise, ideas, concepts, and behaviors of employees progress and performances (Van Bogaert, et.al,2016). This can be depicted in an instance where the employees within this organization lack proper communicational skills. After measurement and evaluation, the management of the organization developed a training program aimed at developing these skills among the employees
3.3 Different Strategies Aimed At Promoting the Continuing Development of Individuals in This Sector
Performance incentives and feedback remains fundamental within an organization and that are developed to promote the continuous development of employees within the healthcare sector. Performance feedback infers to a vital approach developed to enhance and boost the performance level of employees in cases where feedback is not provided on how individuals may understand on the performances done (Decramer, Smolders, & Vanderstraeten, pp.354.2013). In this instance, employees need to have information in regards to how they can enhance their professional careers within the sector.
Through performance feedback’s, the positive and the negative individual’s within an organization are given the opportunity to solve issues since this aspect updates them on their weaknesses and mistakes and provides them with the opportunity to learn. Performance feedback does not only enlighten the employees on their weaknesses, but provides them with the recommendation of how they can be trained (Decramer, Smolders, & Vanderstraeten, pp.354.2013).
Appropriate performance based incentives are essential in motivating the employees and considers the increments of wages and the provision of training and developmental programs as part of the benefits enjoyed by the employees.
D1) How to Monitor My Own Personal Training and Development Needs
In determining my personal training and development needs, it is important to consider the level of productivity within my department. This can be determined through the evaluation of the achieved goals in relation to the organizations goals that will determine the need of training and development.
Task 4
4.1 Leadership Theories That Apply In This Industry
There are two main theories of leadership that affect health care facilities which include situational and behavioral theory. Behavioral theory is the same as characteristic theory. Nevertheless, the most important aspect of this theory is for people to understand what leadership entails, a factor that makes this uncomplicated when teaching about leadership (Findley, Matos, Hicks, Campbell, Moore, & Diaz, pp.1884. 2012).
However, this theory was discovered due to the disapproval of trait theory after which the experts decided to carry out a detailed investigation about the manner in which flourishing leaders conduct themselves. According to this investigation, it was concluded that most leaders are prone to more power instead of association. Additionally, it is essential to note that the majority of efficient and prominent leaders are generally temperate.
Theoretical theory explains that leadership patterns and styles commonly depend on the level of leadership. The theory also alludes to the fact that the most successful style of leadership is determined by the conditions under which leaders are subjected to. According to this theory, it is equally important to understand that leadership has three main branches which include democratic, laissez faire styles and authoritarian. Among the three, it is considered that authoritarian is the most efficient especially for the period of disaster (Manroop, Singh, & Ezzedeen, pp.780.2014).
However, if a leader decides to use this method every time, it ends up failing since it does not gratify the members. On the other hand, a leader who uses the democratic form of leadership successfully runs his empire since it is most simple and suitable for many situations. These mentioned methods have some boundaries and clearly, there is no style that can be termed as the leading method. It is also important to apply some undemanding principles which might not be necessary in some cases.
Application of these Theories in this Industry
Since the behavioral theory of leadership aids in reaching to an agreement, it should be used in both social and health care institutions. If this theory is formulated within the conceptual framework of an organization by the leaders in social workplaces, it would be exceptionally easy for t to administer responsibilities and duties for the subordinates. On the other hand, situational theory is more useful in areas where more complicated issues are involved.
4.2 How working relationships can be managed at Houslow care Ltd
Every worker in Houslow care ltd should be positioned accordingly so as to ensure that work is easily monitored. On the other hand, there are other aspects that can be used to ensure that work is administered effectively (Mitchell, Obeidat, & Bray, pp.901. 2013). For example, trust is the main fundamental aspect of any working environment. All employees in Houslow care ltd should know that in any working environment, innovation is very much necessary in order for the organization to offer effective and quality services. They should also consider the fact that communication and mutual understanding among the employees is also very vital.
4.3 Evaluating the developments that have been influenced by management approaches
Leadership basically refers to a dynamic and lively relationship between workers and leaders who have a universal interest and are principally motivated by better results (Mitchell, et.al.2013).Team working means working collectively in order to jointly achieve the goals set by an organization.
Actually, team working is the most crucial aspect and each institution should apply as it helps the workers to perform their duties effectively. According to some assessments that have been made, it is important to know that teamwork generates incredible performance and thus should be highly recommended (Mitchell, et.al.2013). Recruitment on the other hand entails choosing the most qualified candidates amongst the many who turn up for interviews. In addition, employers should adhere to some fundamental rule’s including gender discrimination and equal opportunities.
(M3) Comparison of how different leadership styles can be used within your branch of Hounslow Care Ltd
It is important to consider the fact that leadership remains an essential element for any entity. Different managers present different leadership styles in impacting productivity among the employees. However, it is important to note that an effective leadership style would impact the growth and development of the organization immensely.
Employing the delegative approach of leadership would not be an effective approach of leading the organization and the employees to the achievement of their goals since the leaders are in most cases bound to arrive on decisions on their own. However, the participative leadership approach would be effective since the leaders include the participation of the employees in the decision-making process, a factor that would yield results in this organization.
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D2. How to address the dilemma of a member of staff who was underperforming
Many organizations consider firing their staff members who do not perform within their organizations. However, it is essential to consider that the underperforming staff members are sometimes affected by some work related situations that hinder their performance. This would therefore require an approach that would ensure that the staffs are motivated and are trained to remain productive within the organization.
Conclusion
This study has in this case discovered that recruiting best workers is important to every organization. This paper seeks to describe the approaches which involve training and developing the most effective employees. The aims at improving at understanding systems used to monitor and promote the development of employees so that they can work as a team.
Decramer, A, Smolders, C, & Vanderstraeten, A 2013, ‘Employee performance management culture and system features in higher education: relationship with employee performance management satisfaction’, International Journal Of Human Resource Management, 24, 2, pp. 352-371, Business Source Complete, EBSCOhost, viewed 14 April 2016 Retrieved From; http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=bth&AN=83561511&site=ehost-live
Downey, L, Lee, B, & Stough, C 2011, ‘Recruitment Consultant Revenue: Relationships with IQ, personality, and emotional intelligence’, International Journal Of Selection & Assessment, 19, 3, pp. 280-286, Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 14 April 2016.Retrived From: http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=aph&AN=64905370&site=ehost-live
Findley, S, Matos, S, Hicks, A, Campbell, A, Moore, A, & Diaz, D 2012, ‘Building a Consensus on Community Health Workers’ Scope of Practice: Lessons From New York’, American Journal Of Public Health, 102, 10, pp. 1981-1987, Professional Development Collection, EBSCOhost, viewed 14 April 2016. Retrieved From: http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=tfh&AN=82041368&site=ehost-live
Hollenbeck, J, & Jamieson, B 2015, ‘Human Capital, Social Capital, And Social Network Analysis: Implications For Strategic Human Resource Management’, Academy Of Management Perspectives, 29, 3, pp. 370-385, Business Source Complete, EBSCOhost, viewed 14 April 2016. Retrieved From: http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=bth&AN=109373294&site=ehost-live
Mitchell, R, Obeidat, S, & Bray, M 2013, ‘The Effect of Strategic Human Resource Management on Organizational Performance: The Mediating Role of High-Performance Human Resource Practices’, Human Resource Management, 52, 6, pp. 899-921, Business Source Complete, EBSCOhost, viewed 14 April 2016. Retrieved From: http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=bth&AN=92038564&site=ehost-live
Sumelius, J, Björkman, I, Ehrnrooth, M, Mäkelä, K, & Smale, A 2014, ‘What Determines Employee Perceptions of HRM Process Features? The Case of Performance Appraisal in MNC Subsidiaries’, Human Resource Management, 53, 4, pp. 569-592, Business Source Complete, EBSCOhost, viewed 14 April 2016. Retrieved From: http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=bth&AN=97119660&site=ehost-live
Van Bogaert, P, Peremans, L, Diltour, N, Van heusden, D, Dilles, T, Van Rompaey, B, & Havens, D 2016, ‘Staff Nurses’ Perceptions and Experiences about Structural Empowerment: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study’, Plos ONE, 11, 4, pp. 1-14, Academic Search Premier EBSCOhost, viewed 14 April 2016 Retrieved From: http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=aph&AN=114181107&site=ehost-live
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The diagnosis and management of depression within the American population
Identifying a Problem
The diagnosis and management of depression within the American population remains one of the health factors affecting the health sector. Sources determine that the prevalence of depression within the American population is ascertained to stand at 8.5%, a factor that has seen less people seek medical attention (Wagner, Müller, Helmreich, Huss, & Tadić, 2015). Thus paper therefore seeks to develop a PICOT question in determine the aspect of depression and its effects within this population.
PICOT Question
It is essential to consider that the PICOT P, Population: I Intervention C, Comparison, O, Outcome and T Time is developed in guiding this study. In the American population between the ages of 30-35 of the working class (P), is there a need of developing a tool that will analyze depression (I), compared with the other approaches of care (C) that ensures appropriate procedures are developed in order to detect depression (O) within a specified time (T)? The aim of the PICOT question is developed to determine enough evidences that justify the element of depression among the American population through the use of effective tools.
Selecting Sources of Literature
In considering the results of this paper, it is essential to search through multiple databases that include EBSCOhost, Google Scholar, PsycINFO and the Cochrane and other sources from Health Care research centers. In getting the results of this study, there are key search words that need to be considered (Wagner, et.al.2015). These words include: screening, depression, depressive disorders, BECK or BDI-ii and the population. The use of both the published and the unpublished materials in searching the literatures was incorporated with the materials reviewed dating back between 2005-2010.
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Selecting Sources of Literature
According to Wagner et.al.2015, a metal-analysis was conducted to determine the effects of depression on the American population. The findings of the study identifies that a majority of the population presented traumatic symptoms. This material determines that depressive disorders among the younger generation may lead to suicidal and homicidal thoughts and attempts (Jackson, Dianne & Garnefski, 2015).
Some of the symptoms that are presented by this author include chest pains, headaches, painful urination, dizziness an excessive sweating. This source intrinsically supports the specified area of study since it provides evidence to some of the effects of depression among the American population.
Jackson et.al.2015 in his literature consequently revealed that the screening of depressive disorders among the American population undergoes a process of identification, assessment, and initiation of approaches aimed at managing this disease within the American population (pp.197). This author details a quantitative randomized study within this population and establishes that the abuse of substances is as a result of depression, a factor that explains the reasons why several Americans engage in risky sexual behaviors.
On the other hand, the population is also likely to engage in drugs and substance abuse as a result of depression. The author determines that there is a need of developing a concurrent treatment method that uses psychotropic drugs and other stable stimulants in the management of depression. The inclusion of psychotherapeutic method is also essential in the management of depression.
The author also mentions that depression within this population needs to be effectively managed since discoveries have been made that establish individuals in this state engage in unprotected sex and the inclusion of multiple sexual partners, a factor that would result into a health concern within a nation.
References
Wagner, S., Müller, C., Helmreich, I., Huss, M., & Tadić, A. (2015). A meta-analysis of cognitive functions in children, adults and adolescents with major depressive disorder. European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 24(1), 5-19. doi:10.1007/s00787-014-0559
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Statistics in Prediction of Outcome
Introduction
Statistic can be used to predict outcome. This is because statistic encompasses the use of various techniques that enable a person in prediction of outcome. To emphasize this fact, we carried out a project. Our project was about analyzing data to extend where we answer the research question. The topic was chosen because there is need to understand the relationship between statistic and outcome. We wanted to come up with proper understanding of the reliability of statistic in prediction of outcome. The research question was ‘can statistic predict income?’
Saint Leo University has excellence as one of the core values. The excellence that the University dreams of is about creating character that enables each one of the students to end up responsible people in the society. This is brought about by team work, dedication and completion of assigned tasks. Therefore, completing this project reflected what the value of excellence at Saint Leo University advocates.
Data
The data that we used is secondary. The data used in this report was obtained from the website of Halliburton Limited, a multinational company operating in the oil fields service providers industry.
In this project, we used dependent and independent variables. Dependent variables are the ones that a researcher is always interested in. On the other hand, the independent variables are the ones that affect the dependent variables.
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Dependent and independent variables
In our project, the dependent variables consist of operating income for three years. On the other hand, the independent variables consist of sales values for three years. According to Halliburton (2014), the sales and operating income values were as below.
Year
Sales (x)
Profit(y)
2012
28,503.00
4,159.00
2013
29,402.00
3,138.00
2014
32,870.00
5,097.00
Descriptive Statistics Table
Statistic
Sales (x)
Profit(y)
Mean
30,258.33
4,131.33
Median
29,402.00
4,159.00
Min
28,503.00
3,138.00
Max
32,870.00
5,097.00
Standard Deviation
1882.84
799.998
Skewness
1.36
0.10
Statistic Test
The testing that we carried out is Pearson coefficient of correlation. This test is quite useful in understanding the relationship of variables. It is very useful in understanding how strong the relationship between variables is.
Year
Sales (x)
Operating Income (y)
(xy)
(x^2)
(y^2)
2014
32,870.00
5,097.00
167,538,390.00
1,080,436,900.00
25,979,409.00
2013
29,402.00
3,138.00
92,263,476.00
864,477,604.00
9,847,044.00
2012
28,503.00
4,159.00
118,543,977.00
812,421,009.00
17,297,281.00
Total
90,775.00
12,394.00
378,345,843.00
2,757,335,513.00
53,123,734.00
The formulae of Pearson Coefficient of correlation is as shown below
N
3.00
N∑xy
1,135,037,529.00
∑x∑y
1,125,065,350.00
N∑x^2)
8,272,006,539.00
∑x^2)
2,757,335,513.00
N∑y^2)
159,371,202.00
∑y^2)
53,123,734.00
Coefficient of correlation (r) = 1,135,037,529.00-1,125,065,350.00/ Square root of (8,272,006,539.00-2,757,335,513.00)( 159,371,202.00- 53,123,734.00)
After conducting Pearson coefficient of correlation, the result was a positive correlation of the variables. This means that when sales increase, the operating income increases too. This shows that we can predict the outcome of the year 2015.
Conclusion
From the project, it is evident that statistic can be used to predict outcome. Therefore, the research question has been addressed well. From the analysis, it has become evident that the use of statistic is faced with certain challenges. Firstly, reliability of some data sources is questionable. Additionally, the fact that data is not readily available is another challenge. There has also been an important observation that the choice of variables should be done properly to avoid confusion of the tests carried out. From the project, it has come out clearly that when there is positive correlation of variables, the movement of change in any of them is positive.
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Lotschberg Base Tunnel Project
Introduction
Project management is an exercise that requires proper handling. This is because if weaknesses occur in the process of project management, a project may fail to be completed successfully. Project managers are supposed to ensure that all success measures are fulfilled. One of the success measures that stand out is proper risk management. A project that gets completed with low level of risk incidents is deemed to be successful.
This calls for the need to have proper risk management during implementation of projects. Another success measure for projects is use of suitable tools and technology. Projects are known to use tools and technology to carry out the different processes towards completion. This means that proper selection and application of tools and technology is necessary.
This essay is focusing on Lotschberg Base Tunnel project that was successful. The risks that were identified are well explained together with the management that was done. This is done properly through identification of specific risks and approaches that were used to mitigate them.
The essay goes further and gives details of the tools and techniques that were used in the implementation of Lotschberg Base Tunnel project. The suitability of each tool and technique is also explained fully. To sum it up, conclusion is drawn for the matters arising from the essay.
The project
The Lotschberg Base Tunnel project was constructed in Switzerland. The project resulted into a 34.57 km long tunnel. The Alps accommodates this mega tunnel. This project was initiated in the year 2005 and continued until 2007.
The purpose of the project
All projects are supposed to have clear goals. The project goals determine the suitable approach to use. The purpose of the Lotschberg Base Tunnel was to provide transport solution to the area of location. This tunnel was aimed at enabling growth of railway transport.
Management of risks and uncertainties
It is common knowledge that projects are full of risks and uncertainties. Some of the risks are so dreadful that they threaten the progress of a project. In cases where the project is complex, the probability of having numerous risks goes high unlike the case of simple projects, thus the need to have a working approach (Kwan 2011, p. 91).
The management of risks for Lotschberg Base Tunnel project was done through proper planning. This commenced through with definition of the strategy likely to spearhead risk management efforts. The risk strategy advocated that there should be a team mandated with risk management. In risk management for projects, it is advisable to have a reliable risk management wing (Sullivan 2001, p. 35). Additionally, the strategy for risk management during this project defined clearly the process of managing risk. The phases defined included;
Risk identification
Risk overview
Examination of risk
Mitigation of risk
After defining the risk management approach above, it was easy to manage the identified risks for the project. The risks identified for during implementation of Lotschberg Base Tunnel project were handled as below;
Complexity risk
Upon identifying the risk identification approach, this is one of the noted risks. This project was a complex one thus attracting risk associated with projects of that size. This risk was associated with the probability of failing o meet the various aspects of the project. To manage this risk successfully, the risk management function started by coming up with a strategy to identify all aspects of the project.
This gave the project managers an insight into the big picture of the project. With this done, a risk management plan was created. The risk management plan for Lotschberg Base Tunnel project ensured that all parts of the project were well factored in all activities. Additionally, managing the complexity risk for this project involved identifying and clarifying the small bit of tasks that had to be handled.
This came as a way of simplifying the complex processes and activities for Lotschberg Base Tunnel project. Having created clarity of the internal tasks, it became easy for each of the risk management team members to understand their responsibility in the project without confusion related to high level of complexity of this project.
Finance risk-cost funds
Mega projects are known consumers of large amounts of money. To implement complex projects, it requires proper planning on matters of financing (Didraga 2012, p. 89). According to Strazewski, L 2009, p. 82), finance risk should be handled as a priority risk. This is because poor finance risk planning leads to inadequate funds thus affecting the progress of a project. During the implementation of Lotschberg Base Tunnel project, risk related to finances was identified.
This risk was broken down into two categories. One of these categories was source of funds while the other risk category was about financial cost. Regarding the risk about sources of financing, proper planning was done to ensure that there would be no financial drought during the progress of this project. This ensured that all requirements were financed for when needed.
On the other hand, the cost risk was about the level that would be used to completion of Lotschberg Base Tunnel project . To manage this risk, the project managers ensured that aspects that would lead to increased risk were handled well. Firstly, proper stock management was carried out. This enabled the project to adhere to good practices on stock management such as equilibrium order quantity. Additionally, the project risk function ensured that the assumptions regarding finance risk were realistic. This is because each risk has to be managed through the assistance of assumptions.
Communication risk
In implementation of a project, there has to be proper communication system. This means that absence of proper communication leads to unsuccessful flow of project activities. According to Jafari et al. (2011, p. 16), lack of proper project communication sometimes leads to stalled or abandoned projects. As the identification of risks for Lotschberg Base Tunnel project was taking place, communication risk was identified.
There was fear that lack of proper communication could affect this project. To handle this risk, the risk management function for this project ensured that a working project communication system was put in place. Firstly, everybody who was working on Lotschberg Base Tunnel project was informed of the need to have proper communication. This was done with support given to those who were likely to have communication challenges. Moreover, proper management of barriers to efficient communication were broken.
To make it better, the project managers ensured that communication equipments were acquired for efficient system. To make communication risk well managed, each individual was urged to ensure that clarity of communication messages was observed. This was aimed at ensuring that the actions that were intended to be carried out were easily picked. As the project progressed, the risk regarding communication was put away through ensuring that there was continuous improvement of the communication channels. This was supported by review of the communication related policies.
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Human resource risk
Risk related to human resource for the project was also identified. One of the identified events that would lead to this risk was poor recruitment process. There was fear that the recruitment process would not be on time together with hiring of incompetent people. To manage this, the recruiting function ensured that timelines were adhered to throughout the process. Additionally, evaluation of the skills held by the potential employees was done thoroughly. Induction, monitoring and control of the successful individuals were also done appropriately.
The other risky event was the fear that some employees would abandon their duties. To manage this, the human resource management function for the project ensured that close supervision was carried out. Another identified contributor of human resource risk was project team disagreements. Whenever there are conflicts within the workforce, the human resource risk escalates (Pardo 2009, p.86).
To handle this, the human resource management group ensured that proper conflict resolution was applied. This increased the number of conflicts solved amicably. Time to time team building activities were also helpful in ensuring that the human resource risk as a result of conflicts was mitigated. To ensure that the workforce stayed on duty, the human resource function identified health and safety aspect of workplace as qualifying for management to avoid the related risk.
This was done through having health and safety experts advise accordingly. From the health and safety experts consulted proper assessment was done. This was followed by education cum advice on health and safety matters. This was made better by support of the aspects that make employees motivated and geared towards completion of their tasks.
These included attractive wages and incentive programs. Through this, the employees felt appreciated and workforce turnover was reduced throughout the project. To make it better, the working conditions were made friendlier to the workers. Proper management of working conditions ensures that the human resource risk is managed properly (Riley 2013, p.54).
Technological risk
Technology has become one of the greatest aids to creation of efficiency in the implementation of projects. According to Nikolova (2015, p.34), technological aspect of a project should always be considered in risk management.. The events that were feared might cause technological risk included the use of wrong technology or use of technology that is not tested yet.
To manage the risk, the issue of using the wrong technology for Lotschberg Base Tunnel project was handled through proper comparison of the project with the available technologies. This exercise led to elimination of the irrelevant technologies. To settle on the final right technology, the benefits of each relevant technology were looked at and decision was made. Regarding use of untested technology for the project, elimination was done. This led to a clear picture of the suitable technology.
Environmental risk
Regarding the identified environmental risk, the negative effects that the project would have on environment were considered. According to Ali, M et al. (2008, p. 56), environmental conservation is a success measure in projects. First, the physical interference with land through excavation for tunnelling was considered. Secondly, this project has part of its length constructed on the Alps thus the need to consider the effects on the beautiful topography.
To manage the environmental risk as per the identified aspects of the project, proper research and consultation was carried out. This let to proper input regarding the processes that would be friendly to the environment within the project location. Additionally, materials that are friendly to environment were used. This was followed by proper use of equipments to ensure that they maintain the stability of the environment. The processes and techniques used in a project should always help in improving life through environmental carefulness (Sharma, Pablo & Vredenburg 2009, p. 21)
User risk
Project users have become an integral part of project management (Huang 2010, p. 25). This is because the role they play as stakeholders is priceless. With this in mind, proper risk searching was carried out and the risk function felt that there was need to consider user risk for management. To manage this risk, proper rapport was created between the project and users. Constructive meetings were scheduled for the users to interact with the project team.
This was useful in ensuring that there was better understanding of the project progress. Additionally, proper interaction with the users created a platform where confusing aspects of the project were made clear. With clarification of confusing elements of the project, it was easy to explain some of the challenges that the project was coming through. This brought about a situation where more support was given by the stakeholders.
Supplier risk
Projects are usually sustained by material availability. Breakdown in material requirement was identified as an occurrence that may lead to supplier risk. According to Vivian and Shen (2012, p. 86), this is usually brought about by the fear that some suppliers may be inefficient in their supply.
To handle this, the stock management for the project was made more efficient. This included proper management of the re-order level to ensure that proper levels of stock are maintained. Additionally, adherence to supplier payment plans was done to avoid supplier unrests. To make it better, suppliers were warned against going against their contracts.
Benefits to the project from proper risk management
It is worth noting that when risk management is done well, a project benefits from it. During Lotschberg Base Tunnel project, risk management was done in a way that brought about several benefits.
Budget adherence
Risk management has a positive correlation with budget movements. The budget that was set for this project did not skyrocket beyond. This was caused by various reasons, proper risk management being one of them. Eventually, Lotschberg Base Tunnel project was completed within the estimated budget one reason being there was no risk related compensation to make.
Certification
During the implementation of this project, proper risk management let to certification of the various phases. It is worth noting that projects are usually halted or stopped whenever they operate under circumstances that are too risky. With this project managing its risks properly, it was easy to obtain certificates from the relevant authorities.
Reduced disruptions
Whenever risky incidences occur during implementation of a project, disruptions take place. This means that the project schedule is affected among other aspects of the project. Luckily, Lotschberg Base Tunnel project saw few disruptions. This is because there was proper management of risks identified for the project.
Reduced insurance premiums
This project ran to completion successfully with few incidents. This means that insurance evaluation did not find need to increase the premiums already set for various covers. Interestingly, there was an effort to negotiate for lower premiums since the project was progressing within safe operation.
Cost stability
As a result of proper risk management during implementation of this project, the cost involved was stable. This project operated within the cost range planned. The stability of the cost was brought about by the fact that there were no much additions as a result of response to risky incidences.
Tools, techniques and their suitability for Lotschberg Base Tunnel project
This project called for the use of reliable tools for project management. According to Loo (2009, p. 46), the need for project management tools is brought about by the complex nature involved. The tools are known to simplify activities that would have proved complex without.
During the implementation of Lotschberg Base Tunnel project, the Program Evaluation Review Technique (PERT) was used as a tool. This project management tool was applied manually in the project. It is worth noting that it can be used with the aid of computer software. PERT is a very useful project management tool since it identifies the activities that are required for a project to continue up to completion (Radek 2016, p. 14-24). This tool is known to give proper guidance when it comes controlling the flow of activities.
Through the use of PERT as a project management tool, the specific project activities were identified successfully. The identification of these activities assisted in planning better for the project. During the progress of Lotschberg Base Tunnel project, this tool of project management enabled the project managers control all processes successfully.
With the aid of this project management tool, the project managers were able to identify the time requirement for each of the identified tasks. This enabled the project managers come up with suitable schedules as per the identified timeframe of the projects. Additionally, this project tool was used in identifying the challenges that were embodied to each activity.
Proper identification of challenges facing a particular project activity is very important since it creates a good opportunity for finding solution (Sunday Business Post 2011, p. 16). Therefore, this tool enabled the project managers come up with ways of overcoming challenges facing the project.
The use of Program Evaluation Review Technique (PERT) was advisable. The suitability of this project management tool was encouraged by its ability to address several aspects of a project at the same time. It does away with instances of omissions that other project techniques have.
Importance of using suitable tools and techniques for Lotschberg Base Tunnel project
It is advisable for projects to be handled properly through use of the suitable tools and techniques. The tools and techniques used were able to bring benefits regarding the following.
The use of PERT enabled the project to run within the expected cost level. According to Engwall (2012, p. 595) says that this is because this tool for project management enables proper planning. Proper planning is known to be useful in cost management of a project.
Communication
Through the use of the identified tools and techniques, communication within the stakeholder community was made efficient. Selection of proper techniques ensures that the project system is coordinated in terms of communication.
Risk
It is worth noting that project techniques play a big role in risk management. Through the use of the suitable techniques for Lotschberg Base Tunnel project, risk management was made easy thus reaping benefits of having proper risk management for a project.
Resource allocation
The use of PERT as a tool for this project enabled the project manager is able to manage the available resources well. This was through the ability of this tool to give forecasts for resources. This is very useful in projects since it makes planning easy.
Efficiency
Through the use of suitable tools and techniques for this project, efficiency was created in all activities of the project. The tools assisted in identifying the main activities for the project. Upon identification, the activities were scheduled according to the design of the project. This was merged with proper time plan that let to successful completion of Lotschberg Base Tunnel project.
Conclusion
Projects should be handled with a lot of care. This is necessary because it brings about identification of all aspects that need to be put under control. Risk management should be planned for whenever a project is being implemented. The project manager should ensure all aspects of risk management are put in order. This should be through assignment and investment in risk management. Additionally, the process of risk management should be defined properly to avoid confusion.
The tools and techniques to be used for a particular project should be identified in time. Testing practically or through precedent should be done. This should be supported by detailed proof of their suitability. This should be motivated by the need to gain from the benefits associated with project tools and techniques. It is worth noting that the tools and techniques used in project management require continuous review. This is always important since it enables the project managers update the appropriately.
Nikolova, LV, Kuporov, JJ & Rodionov, DG 2015, Risk Management of Innovation Projects in the Context of Globalization, [Online] Available at: http://search.proquest.com/business/docview/1753590788/4C6CD6EFE1EE4787PQ/32?accountid=45049, [Accessed 2 May 2016].
Radek, D 2016, The Level of Use of Project Management Methods, Techniques and Tools and Their Impact on Project Success – Selected Region of Czech Republic, [Online] Available at: http://search.proquest.com/business/docview/1752861959/B741D3FD890042F6PQ/1?accountid=45049, [Accessed 2 May 2016].
Chlorhexidine to Prevent Ventilator-associated Pneumonia
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Use of Chlorhexidine to Prevent Ventilator-associated Pneumonia: Research Critique
Introduction
The critical appraisal of articles is an important aspect in promoting evidence based practice. In nursing care, critical analysis is conducted for three major reasons; to broaden the nursing knowledge, to understand the evidence based practice and to improve nurse practice. During the critical appraisal, the nurse is required to evaluate the study findings, and relate their appropriateness in clinical practice. This helps assure delivery if effective and safety care in hospitalized patients and in intensive care unit (ICU).
In this context, this paper critically appraises the following article; Zhang, T., Tang, S. and Fu, L. (2013). The effectiveness of different concentrations of chlorhexidine for prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia: a meta-analysis. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 23(11-12), pp.1461-1475. doi: 10.1111/jocn.12312. The article’s problem statement, study purpose, research question, literature view and conceptual framework are critiqued.
Problem statement
This article explores the effectiveness of using chlorhexidine to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia. Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is pneumonia that develops in people who have medical devices to assist in controlling respirations through tracheostomy and through endotracheal intubation. The risk factors for VAP include reintubation, aspirations, supine positioning, as well as failed subglottic aspirations. However, the most common mechanism for onset of VAP is colonised oropharyngeal secretions. Therefore, reduction in number of the oral microorganisms is important in preventing VAP (Zhang, Tang, and Fu, 2013).
Research indicates that chlorhexidine (CHX) has antimicrobial compound that effectively works against aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. However, the study results of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) findings are inconsistent. Most of the studies have indicated that CHX effectively prevent VAP but Pineda’s research indicates that use of CHX oral decontamination is not significant in reduction of nosocomial pneumonia in patients who had received MV (Pineda et al., 2006).
This indicates that if the use of CHX for oral care in preventing the onset of VAP is still controversial. Therefore, the article explores other published studies (meta-analysis) to determine the efficacy of CHX and to determine the appropriate concentrations as described by RCTs (Zhang et al., 2013).
The significance of the study is derived from the fact that VAP represents the most common nosocomial infection in ventilated patients. It occurs in about 9-27% of intubated patients. VAP is associated with lengthened hospital stay. It is estimated to increase hospital stay by $50,000-57,000 per occurrence. The disease mortality rate is estimated to be 15-45%. Therefore, it is important to establish the most effective strategy to prevent development of VAP in intubated patients (Zhang et al., 2013).
Purpose and Research questions
The author has not clearly stated the purpose of this study, but the purpose is well indicated as the study objectives and aims. The study aim is to determine the effectiveness of chlorhexidine in the prevention of VAP and to evaluate the preferred CHX concentrations for oral decongestants (Zhang et al., 2013).
The study research questions are as follows (Zhang et al., 2013). ;
a) Is CHX effective in reduction and prevention of VAP?
b) What is the preferred CHX concentration that can effectively reduce the rates of VAP pneumonia?
The purpose and research questions are related to the study problem. The qualitative methods are appropriate to answer these questions because it has the capacity to answer inconclusive study questions. This is attributable to the research method ability to identify sources across various types of studies which helps detect biased and unbiased information. Additionally, this method can help stimulate improvements in the data collected in order to optimize care (Zhang et al., 2013).
Literature review
The literature review is summative but conjoined with the introductory part of the paper. The researchers report the findings of other papers as a narrative. The literature review points out the controversial information on the effectiveness of the CHX and the preferred concentrations. The information provided is current and adequate to establish a logical argument. For instance, the study indicates that patients on mechanical ventilation drugs have their mouth wide open to facilitate the insertion of the intubation tube.
This breaks the balance of the oral cavity and production of saliva, which makes it easy for bacterial colonization. The literature also states that the mechanical process of intubation compromises the natural barrier that exists between the trachea and oropharynx, which facilitates the entry of the bacteria into the patient lungs (Zhang et al., 2013). Therefore, oral hygiene during intubation is important factor in the control of VAP in ICU and hospitalized individuals.
The literature review also summarizes the current knowledge relevant to research purpose and research questions that is, effectiveness of CHX in prevention of VAP and the preferred concentrations of CHX that effectively prevent the development of VAP. The authors have utilized both quantitative and qualitative studies that focus on prevention of VAP. The articles used also includes randomized controlled study on adults above 15 years who are receiving oral care with CHX as compared to placebo and standard care (Zhang et al., 2013).
The author has not indicated the weakness of the studies available. The articles used in development of the literature are current which are not older than 5 years. However, the study also evaluates studies that were published earlier to facilitate development of logical argument of the study (Zhang et al., 2013).
Theoretical Framework/ conceptual
The author has not identified specific perspectives in which the study was established. The theoretical framework is not well described, but the article has applied the classic grounded theory to analyse the secondary data collected (Maltby, 2010). The paper draws its conclusion from 18 research papers. The aim of the paper is to explore the various mechanisms for VAP management to identify the effectiveness of CHX.
According to this article, the implementation of effective oral care measures effectively reduces the incidences of VAP. However, the several randomised controlled trials conclusion on the effectiveness of chlorhexidine is controversial. Using the classical grounded theory, secondary data is explored to check if the use of CHX in different concentration will yield different outcome. Using this framework, the previous pre-framed data and small data set from the previous papers is improved by comparing the information (Zhang et al., 2013).
Conclusion
This article provides information that will help improve the delivery of care especially in hospitalized patients. It is important to critically appraise articles which help in identification of knowledge gaps (Burns & Grove, 2011). The article aims at establishing evidence based practice that prevents the development of VAP. The article concludes that VAP, which is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in hospitalized patients and in ICU, is effectively managed through oral care. The article indicates that CHX can reduce the incidences of VAP. The preferred concentration identified by practice is 0.12%.
References
Burns, N., & Grove, S. (2011). Understanding Nursing Research (5th ed.). Elsevier. ISBN-13: 9781437707502
Maltby, J. (2010). Research methods for nursing and healthcare. Harlow, England: Pearson Education.
Pineda, L. A., Saliba, R.G., & El Solh, A. A .(2006). Effect of oral decontamination with chlorhexidine on the incidence of nosocomial pneumonia: a meta-analysis. Critical Care 10, R35.in Zang et al., (2013). The effectiveness of different concentrations of chlorhexidine for prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia: a meta-analysis. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 23(11-12), pp.1461-1475
How Is Globalization Affecting the Key Actors in the International System?
Introduction
Globalization basically has no precise definition. In actual fact, globalization is in danger of becoming the truism of the modern era. Even so, the word globalization encompasses aspects of an extensive perception that there is a widening, deepening and accelerating of global interconnectedness in virtually every aspect of life (Rourke & Boyer, 2000).
At the core of globalization is a global shift; meaning, the globe being shaped by technological and economic forces, into a collective political and economic arena. The three main perspectives with regard to globalization include transformationalist, the sceptical, and the hyperglobalist viewpoints (Verma & Singh, 2010).
Hyperglobalists: those who hold this viewpoint maintain the world today is a more and more global world wherein countries are being subject to immense political as well as economic processes of transformation. These processes serve to erode and fragment countries and reduce the power of political leaders. In circumstances such as these ones, countries are becoming gradually more the ‘decision- takers’ rather than the ‘decision-makers’ (D’Anieri, 2011). The sceptical: those with this viewpoint strongly oppose the perspective of hyperglobalists and maintain that present-day global circumstances are not unprecedented.
According to them, although there has been an increase in social and international activity in the past few years, this has served to reinforce and enhance the powers of state in a number of domains (D’Anieri, 2011). Transformationalists: those who have this view maintain that globalization is producing novel economic, political as well as social situations that are actually altering powers of the state and the context wherein countries operate. Transformationalists do not try to envisage the outcome (Popa, 2014). They maintain that it is uncertain – but assert that politics is not just rooted in nation-states.
Globalization
Globalization can suitably be seen as a process which exemplifies a change in the spatial organization of social transactions as well as relations, resulting in interregional or transcontinental flows and networks of activities, interaction as well as power (Kilic, 2015). Globalization is typified by the following: integration of international/global economic decision-making, integration of international economic decision-making, exponential growth in global fiscal transactions, increases in global Non-Governmental Organizations and Activities (NGOs), and strengthened political International Governmental Organizations (IGOs) (Goldstein & Pevehouse, 2006).
Furthermore, globalization is typified by 4 kinds of change:
(i) globalization entails a stretching of economic, political and social activities across political regions, frontiers, and countries.
(ii) Globalization involves the intensification of interconnectedness as well as flows of migration, finance, investment, and trade.
(iii) The increasing intensity and extensity of international interconnectedness could be associated with an increase of international processes and interactions, as the development of global communication and transport systems increases the rate of the dissemination of information, capital, people, goods and ideas (Goldstein & Pevehouse, 2006).
(iv) The rising intensity, extensity and rate of international interactions can be linked to their increasing impact such that the effects of distant occurrences could be very considerable in other places.
In fact, the most local events and occurrences could have considerable international implications. As such, the boundaries between international affairs and domestic matters can become more and more blurred. On the whole, globalization could be described as the broadening, increasing, accelerating and rising impact of international interconnectedness (Nederveen & Dasgupta, 2009). When globalization is thought of in this manner, then patterns of international relations and connections could be empirically mapped in all major domains of human activity.
Principal actors in international system
In the international system, the key actors include country government, international organizations, non-government organizations, multinational enterprises, inter-governmental organizations, and transnational corporations.
State Actors
On the modern world stage, the state is certainly one of the oldest and universally recognized actors. A State refers to a political unit which has sovereignty over a territory and the citizens in that territory (Gaur, 2015). Examples of states include sovereign country governments such as Italy, Canada, USA, UK, and Egypt among other countries.
Intergovernmental Organizations
Even as States are still the leading and main actors on the global stage, other important actors also exist such as intergovernmental organizations (IGOs). These are created by states, often through a treaty. The common IGOs are International Monetary Fund, World Trade Organization, International Criminal Police Organizations, and the World Bank Group. IGOs mainly do not have a way of enforcing state compliance with their decisions, perhaps except with the assistance of powerful nations (Kegley Jr. & Wittkopf, 2004).
Nongovernmental Organizations (NGOs)
Not every actor on the world’s stage has governmental roles. NGOs are essentially not-for-profit voluntary organizations which support public good or pursue it. These organizations are by and large involved in such things as economic development, issues pertaining to human rights, social welfare, as well as humanitarian assistance. Common non-governmental organizations are Greenpeace, the Amnesty International, Oxfam, and the Red Cross (Nederveen, & Dasgupta, 2009).
Multinational Enterprises
Theother significant grouping of actors comprises multinational enterprises (MNEs). These are for-profit organizations with presence in more than 1 country. It is notable that some multinational enterprises such as Sony, General Electric, General Motors, and Wal-mart have very large amounts of monetary resources that equal or exceed the resources of smaller nations like Burundi, Fiji and Somalia. It is notable that an MNE’s interests do not essentially coincide with those of the countries wherein they do business, or even the MNE’s home country (Seitan, 2014).
Sub-state actors or domestic actors
These comprise groups of persons who have the same interests not beyond the countries which can affect the foreign policy of the State. Examples include tobacco sector and automobile sector in USA. These sectors, in essence, have interests in the country’s foreign fiscal policy so that they may sell automobiles or cigarette products overseas and decrease importations of competing products produced overseas. They can influence the decisions made with regard to their country’s laws with the aim of protecting the rights of workers (Antonelli, & Fassio, 2016).
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Intergovernmental Organizations (IGOs)
These are organizations whose members comprise at least 3 countries. These organizations are formed by countries to resolve common problems that give them authority of making collective decisions to deal with various problems and issues on the international agenda (Francioni, Musso & Vardiabasis, 2013). In IGOs, the representatives of country governments assemble to talk about issues which are of shared interests to member countries. There are 2 major kinds of Intergovernmental Organizations: the global Intergovernmental Organizations and the regional Intergovernmental Organizations.
Global Intergovernmental Organizations are organizations with universal or nearly universal membership; this means that each country is a member such as the International Monetary Fund, World Trade Organization, and the United Nations. Regional Intergovernmental Organizations are essentially a subset of countries as members basing upon a certain interest or region, for instance the European Union and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) (Kegley Jr. & Wittkopf, 2004).
There are several reasons that cause countries to create or join Intergovernmental Organization. As per liberal institutionalism, states form Intergovernmental Organizations since it is in their best interest to form. With Intergovernmental Organizations, some problems or issues could be resolved easily and cheaper than without them. In particular, liberal institutionalism is focused on collective problems, for instance the security dilemma, the appeal to execute competitive tariffs, as well as the difficulty in agreeing to protect the environment (Art & Jervis, 2011).
Countries should correspond with one another and oversee other countries in order to ensure that they are actually sticking to their commitments to acknowledge many of the problems. For instance, in the case of free trade, the World Trade Organization was created to coordinate the negotiation of tariffs and offer a mechanism for dispute resolution. Some of these tasks may be more complex and costly to implement without the Intergovernmental Organizations (Taylor et al., 2014).
There are times in which Intergovernmental Organizations are not only formed to resolve problems but also to offer a platform for discussing crucial issues (Art & Jervis, 2011). The United Nations General Assembly has no predetermined agenda but offers a forum for countries to talk about and debate matters that come up. Likewise, one of the goals of the World Trade Organization is to organize meetings at which countries would negotiate to resolve major issues (Goldstein & Pevehouse, 2006).
Common Intergovernmental organizations and their functions
The United Nations: This is in charge of maintaining international peace and security. It also develops friendly relations amongst countries. It also seeks to accomplish international cooperation in resolving global problems. Furthermore, it functions as a center for harmonizing the actions of states. World Trade Organization: this organization manages disputes that arise from trading partners.
It also monitors trade in agriculture and manufacture commodities. ASEAN: this organization promotes regional economic, social and culture cooperation amongst the nations situated in the Southeast Asia region (Vadlamannati, 2015). NATO: this organization is a system of joint defense in which the member countries agree to collective defense in response to a military attack by a country that is not a NATO member state.
Transnational Actors
These are actors which function below the state level. However, they function across the state borders. The 2 sorts of transnational actors include nongovernmental organizations and multinational/transnational corporations. Multinational/Transnational Corporations: Multinational corporations are firms which have headquarters in one country but do business extensively in other countries. Such companies are based in one country but have divisions that operate in other nations (Goldstein & Pevehouse, 2006). Put simply, such a firm is a big organization operating globally in different nations at the same time, with fixed facilities and staff members in state.
Types of multinational companies
Industrial corporations manufacture their products in production facilities in different states and sell them to businesses and clients located in different states. The biggest multinational companies operate in the automobile, oil and electronic industries. Virtually every multinational corporation has its headquarters in the Group of Seven countries. Examples of these firms include Sony, Honda, Toyota, BP, BMW, General Motors, Wal-Mart, Total and Apple. Financial institutions like banks: these do business globally but have more restrictions compared to industrial corporations (Mehrabanfar, 2015). Examples include international airlines like Asiana Airlines, Virgin Atlantic; Hilton Hotels & Resorts and Sheraton; and services like McDonald’s fast-food chain.
Multinational corporations are becoming more and more powerful as autonomous actors. A lot of the industrial multinational corporations, Wal-Mart for instance, have yearly revenues of tens of billions of dollars annually. Multinational corporations can match most global companies in monetary resources as well as size. The biggest intergovernmental organizations, which is the United Nations, has an estimated two billion dollars annual revenue, which is really small in comparison to over 250 billion dollars for the largest multinational corporations.
The biggest country economically, USA, has government revenues of over $2 trillion annually. This clearly demonstrates that the power of multinational corporations does not rival the biggest countries but in fact surpasses a lot of poorer countries (Francioni, Musso & Vardiabasis, 2013). Multinational corporations are viewed as citizens of the world and they are beholden to not any government.
Head of Dow Chemicals Company once envisioned to purchase an island to construct the company’s head office. In such view, multinational corporations act internationally in the interests of their global stockholders. In actual fact, they do not owe loyalty to any country. Multinational corporations are motivated by the need to maximize profitability (Nederveen, & Dasgupta, 2009).
The operations of multinational corporations support an international business infrastructure linking a global community of businesspersons. For instance, an American manager who arrives in Tokyo Japan does not find a confusing and puzzling scene of strange customs, locations, as well as languages. Instead, this manager would be able to move through a known series of faxes and telephone calls, multinational hotels, airport lounges, business conference facilities, and international news broadcasts – most likely hearing the English language spoken in all of these (Mehrabanfar, 2015).
Moreover, multinational corporations contribute to the development of their host country. As transnational companies operate in other countries, they create job opportunities for the locals in that country and in so doing help to stabilize the economy in that particular country.
Nongovernmental Organizations (NGOs)
In the contemporary world, a lot of people find that by joining nongovernmental organizations, they may be able take part in the global system and lobby to influence international organizations. Most have joined as members of one or more nongovernmental organizations, which have roughly 30,000 members worldwide. Nongovernmental organizations are private global actors whose members are not countries, but rather volunteers from populations of 2 or more countries that have formed organizations to foster their common interests and ideals for the purpose of influencing the policies of intergovernmental organizations and country governments.
Nongovernmental organizations handle many international issues and seek changes in the world for various causes like human rights, environmental protection and disarmament, among others (Nederveen & Dasgupta, 2009). Many nongovernmental organizations pursue objectives that are very much respected and positive, hence do not result in any controversies or a lot of resistance.
NGOs interact with multinational companies, nation-states, and sub-state actors, plus other NGOs. NGOs are increasingly becoming recognized in the UN and other forums, as real actors together with countries but are not equal to them. Some of the groups have a political purpose, some a humanitarian purpose, while others have an economic purpose.
There are times in which nongovernmental organizations mix efforts by means of transnational advocacy networks (Antonelli & Fassio, 2016). By joining nongovernmental organizations, a lot of people learn that they may take part in the global system and lobby to influence multinational organizations.
Examples of nongovernmental organizations
A nongovernmental organization that particularly fights for human rights is the Amnesty International; a global movement of individuals campaigning for globally acknowledged human rights for everyone. They carry out research and generate actions aimed at preventing or ending serious human rights abuses and demanding justice for people whose human rights have been infringed.
The main issues which have been campaigned include freedom of the press, welfare of children, protection of civilians during armed conflicts, rights of women, disability rights, rights of people with AIDS, human impact of pollution and environmental degradation among others (Goldstein & Pevehouse, 2006). The other sort of nongovernmental organizations is the religious movement.
They are a politically active organization rooted in strong religious beliefs. Even though religious movements had a powerful influence in politics in the past decades for instance being able to cause a war between communities with different religious beliefs, religious movements these days are in fact peace makers between conflicting countries.
Political Groups that Advocate Violence: Terrorists
Political factions which support violence or terrorism may really not refer to themselves nongovernmental organizations, but they operate in more or less the same fashion which is by interacting with countries and with relevant populations or institutions by means of violence and terrorist attacks. These groups have great power. They influence the international relations between different countries. One group that is currently active is the Islamic State group.
International Criminal Groups
These actors are that are seen as transnational actors but they act in an illicit fashion. Most of these them have a great capacity of monetary resources which gives them the ability to influence the policies of the state (Goldstein & Pevehouse, 2006). Some international criminal groups can even threaten the security of the country. They are mainly operated secretly making it not easy for the authorities and the police to find them.
These groups are largely involved in various crimes including human trafficking, drugs, prostitution, as well as firearms. Examples of international criminal groups include the Sicilian Mafia in Italy, Yakuza in Japan, and also Triads in Taiwan, Macau, and Hong Kong, Macau (Art & Jervis, 2011).
Impacts of Globalization
There are several effects that emerge from globalization which impacts different economies of the world. The production of goods and services is affected by different elements of globalization. This has also seen the development of different approaches of production such as capital and other inputs and labor that are primarily dependent on the levels of globalization.
Additionally, competitiveness as seen in producing a good or service has resulted in the diffusion of technology that has resulted in the initiation of nations to other developed cities (Gaur, 2015). Having considered this, globalization is therefore ascribed as the force behind the efficiencies that have been experienced in affecting investment opportunities of different organizations within different nations and markets.
Investments are known to play a central role in technological transfer, formation of global investment and in industrial restructuring which have an effect in the national level (Luković, 2015). New technological advancements in different economies additionally remain an essential factor in globalization that stimulate competition and enhances the diffusion of nations through foreign direct investments.
Perception in world politics
Facts do not speak for themselves. Facts are organized by concepts, structured by theories, interpreted by worldviews and assessed in the light of individual and subjective value systems. Realism: this view depicts the world’s political system as a disordered chaotic struggle for security and power amongst competing nation-states. There is no higher authority besides these countries (Verma & Singh, 2010).
As such, countries individually, or alongside other countries, provide for their own defense. In essence, the only effectual way of assuring security is power. Idealism-Liberal Internationalism: this view maintains that there is reason to believe that the leading global role of countries may in fact be declining (Art & Jervis, 2011). Therefore, the world should be described not just in terms of country interactions, but also in terms of growing community.
Conclusion
In conclusion, even though countries remain as the most significant actors in the global system in today’s world, non-state actors have a growing power and influence in globalization. One of the biggest multinational enterprises has annual revenues which actually exceed some of the gross domestic product of poorer countries and this demonstrates their growing influences. As the world keeps globalizing, it would really not be easy to different between multinationals, states and other actors in a period of collapsing states and reemerging countries.
References
Antonelli, C., & Fassio, C. (2016). Globalization and the Knowledge-Driven Economy. Economic Development Quarterly, 30(1), 3-14. doi:10.1177/0891242415617239
Art, R. J., & Jervis, R. (2011). International Politics: Enduring Concepts and Contemporary Issues (10th ed.). New York: Pearson Education.
Bourguignon, F. (2016). Inequality and Globalization. Foreign Affairs, 95(1), 11-15.
D’Anieri, P. (2011). International Politics: Power and Purpose in Global Affairs (Brief ed.). Stamford, United States of America: Wadsworth/Cengage Learning.
Francioni, B., Musso, F., & Vardiabasis, D. (2013). Key decisions and changes in internationalization strategies: The case of smaller firms. Journal of Strategic Marketing, 21(3), 240-259. doi:10.1080/0965254X.2013.790466
Gaur, A. (2015). Impact of Globalization on Trade and Employment. International Journal Of Multidisciplinary Approach & Studies, 2(5), 110-113.
Goldstein, J. S., & Pevehouse, J. C. (2006). International Relations (7th ed.). New York, United States of America: Pearson Education.
Kegley Jr., C. W., & Wittkopf, E. R. (2004). World Politics : Trend & Transformation (9th ed.). Belmont, United States of America: Wadsworth/Thomson Learning.
Kilic, C. (2015). Effects of Globalization on Economic Growth: Panel Data Analysis for Developing Countries. Economic Insights – Trends & Challenges, 67(1), 1-11.
Mehrabanfar, E. (2015). Globalization Streams in Futures Studies. Informatica Economica, 19(3), 96-106. doi:10.12948/issn14531305/19.3.2015.09
Nederveen P. J., & Dasgupta, S. (2009). Politics of Globalization. Los Angeles: SAGE Publications India Pvt., Ltd.
Popa, F. (2014). The Inference of Globalization from the Regionalization Process. Economics, Management & Financial Markets, 9(4), 486-493.
Rourke, J. T., & Boyer, M. A. (2000). World Politics: International Politics on the World Stage, Brief (3rd ed.). New York, United States of America: Dushkin/McGraw-Hill.
Seitan, S. (2014). Problems of the Impact which Globalization Has on the Macroeconomic Balance. Economic Insights – Trends & Challenges, 66(3), 49-57.
Taylor, P. J., Hoyler, M., Pain, K., & Vinciguerra, S. (2014). Extensive and Intensive Globalizations: Explicating the Low Connectivity Puzzle Of U.S. Cities Using A City-Dyad Analysis. Journal of Urban Affairs, 36(5), 876-890. doi:10.1111/juaf.12077
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Obesity Awareness Organizations
Obesity -connected conditions such as stroke, heart attack, type 2 diabetes to mention but few are known to be epidemic and is growing rapidly and directly impacts the lives of approximately thirty four point nine percent (34.9 or 78.6 million) of adults in the USA, (CDC, 2015). Although there has been increased and misinformation and facts about the disease, thus, the establishment of Save the Children and Healthy Kids as well as Healthy community were established to increase public awareness on obesity.
Symbolic interaction theory address this sociological problem by addressing the subjective meanings imposed to people. This theory suggests that people behave according to what the society believes and what is not objectively true. The fundamental aspects of the obesity such as race and gender are better understood using symbolic interactionist lens. These two organizations are working to increase awareness on health risks that are associated with the disease, while providing aid to the morbidly obese individuals and also provide information and resources on exercise, nutrition and counselling on how to seek medical recommendation associated obesity disorders (Jator, 2014).
Functionalist theory is mainly concerned with stability order in the society. For instance, Healthy Kids, Healthy communities is an organization established by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation which aims at preventing child hood obesity. The organization was launched in December 2007. This organization is helping approximately 49 communities in the USA. It helps eliminate the issue of eating disorders and obesity in the USA by advocating for changes to local policies; with the aim of establishing a safe environment, one that fosters healthy lifestyle.
This organization has established programs that lay special emphasis to communities who are at higher risk of developing obesity due to their ethnic group and geographical location of socio-economic impacts in the society (Healthy Kids Healthy Communities, 2015).
Since its establishment, the organizations have supported more than 85 policy changes that target the environment to support healthy living. Some of the efforts have mainly focused on encouraging healthy eating and physical activeness. For instance, in Jafferson County, Ala, the organization advocated for changes to promote healthy eating and physical activity in 360 child care centres that were previously been exempted from these regulations by the local government because they were faith based organization (Healthy Kids Healthy Communities, 2015).
Conflict theory focuses mainly on the causes and consequences of obesity. This theory’s social constructs function based on what people perceive as true about what certain people look like. These constructs are used by these agencies to decide whom they should help and how to do so. According to this perspective, establishing a social structure will help eradicate obesity in America. Looking at the existing social arrangements, they tend to evaluate on what functions it performs to the society (Leon-Guerrero, 2011).
In silver City, N.M., the organization advocated for policy change to new policy that would allow community garden in each land-use zone. The changes also included the complete street policies which aimed at directing officials to design and maintain environments that are safe and accessible by bicyclists, walkers, and the transit users.
Other solutions that have been advocated for by this organization includes partnering with the local government to establish policies that improves access to healthy food, advocate for employee wellness and construction of safe environment that promote physical activeness in both adults and children (Healthy Kids Healthy Communities, 2015).
Critical theory critiques the society aspects with the aim of understanding and explaining the aspects of obesity. It digs beneath the surface of the social life so as to unveil the assumptions and misconceptions of obesity in the society. Social interactionist mainly focuses in micro-sociological interactions between the small groups in the society. The latent function in this case is to investigate the relationship between poverty, women empowerment, and obesity (Leon-Guerrero, 2011).
For instance, Save the Children organization was established in 1919 which aimed at fighting for children rights in order to save these children live and to give hope for better future. This program invests in childhood with the aim of giving them a healthy start across the world. The organization believes that by giving the children a healthy start; they provide them with an opportunity to learn, which offers a prospect to transform their course in the future.
One in five kids in the America lives in poverty. This organization have education and health programs to ensure that these children can access simple things that are critical including things such as books, pre-school educative programs, and healthy places where they can exercise and play. These simple things are crucial in order to help the kids thrive in mind and body (Save the Children, 2015).
The feminist perspective to tackle the obesogenic environments is inspired by the interest to help the poor minority, especially women and children from these communities (Leon-Guerrero, 2011). Save the Children program has established a program to fight obesity based on the feminist perspectives. The organization program is dubbed as “Hunger in America” is ironical. How can an advanced country be malnourished and obese at the same time?
When children live in poverty, they live in society and families that are struggling between making a healthy choice (implying no food at all) and putting cheaper but unhealthy food on the table. Consequently, more than half of these kids living in poverty stricken areas end up becoming obese or overweight. According to this organization’s report, 59% of the children are not able to access fresh healthy foods and in some areas, the statistics is as high as 98% (Save the Children, 2015).
Evidently, it is every person’s right to have a healthy live, and that each child deserves an opportunity to have a healthy start. Functionalist theory focuses more in the consequences than the intent. This is challenging as sometimes latent functions consequences are not usually so obvious. Therefore, it is imported for the Nation to get concerned on how the social arrangements benefits get distributed
(Conflict theory). This includes focusing on who benefits, wins or loses from specific social arrangement. This is important in that the society is constantly changing and conflict of these dynamic social arrangements are the main source of change. It is important to expose children and adults to healthier ways of living by promoting nutrition lessons and support to ensure that the balanced food choices are available to each member in the community, and to ensure that the community members remain physically active (Leon-Guerrero, 2011)
Jator, E. (2014). Predicting Obesity among Adolescents in the United States Using Modified Logistic Model. AJPHR, 2(3), 86-90. http://dx.doi.org/10.12691/ajphr-2-3-4
Leon-Guerrero, A. (2011). Social problems: community, policy and social action (Third ed). Thousand Oaks, California: Pine Forge Press.
