scholarly journals Creating person-al space for unspoken voices during diagnostic medical imaging examinations: a qualitative study

2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Chandra Rekha Makanjee ◽  
Anne-Marie Bergh ◽  
Deon Xu ◽  
Drishti Sarswat

Abstract Background There is emerging interest in person-centred care within a short-lived yet complex medical imaging encounter. This study explored this event from the viewpoint of patients referred for an imaging examination, with a focus on the person and their person-al space. Methods We used convenience sampling to conduct semi-structured interviews with 21 patients in a private medical imaging practice in Australia. The first phase of data analysis was conducted deductively, using the six elements of the person-centred, patient-journey framework of the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Healthcare: transition in; engagement; decisions; well-being; experience; and transition out. This was followed by inductive content analysis to identify overarching themes that span a patient’s journey into, through and out of an imaging encounter. Results The transition-in phase began with an appointment and the first point of contact with the imaging department at reception. Engagement focused on patient-radiographer interactions and explanations to the patient on what was going to happen. Decisions related primarily to radiographers’ decisions on how to conduct a particular examination and how to get patient cooperation. Participants’ well-being related to their appreciation of gentle treatment; they also referred to past negative experiences that had made a lasting impression. Transitioning out of the imaging encounter included the sending of the results to the referring medical practitioner. Person-al vulnerabilities emerged as a cross-cutting theme. Patients’ vulnerability, for which they needed reassurance, pertained to uncertainties about the investigation and the possible results. Healthcare professionals were vulnerable because of patient expectations of a certain demeanour and of pressure to perform optimal quality investigations. Lastly, patients’ personal lives, concerns and pressures – their person-al ‘baggage’ – shaped their experience of the imaging encounter. Conclusion To add value to the quality of the service they deliver, radiography practitioners should endeavour to create a person-al space for clients. Creating these spaces is complex as patients are not in a position to judge the procedures required by technical imaging protocols and the quality control of equipment. A reflective tool is proposed for radiographers to use in discussions with their team and its leaders on improving person-centred care and the quality of services in their practice.

2018 ◽  
Vol 41 (4) ◽  
pp. 410-432 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kyle Talbot ◽  
Sarah Mercer

Abstract Teacher well-being has been shown to play a central role in the quality of teaching and student achievement (Day & Gu, 2009; Klusmann, Kunter, Trautwein, Lüdtke, & Baumert, 2008). However, the teaching profession is currently in crisis as it faces record rates of burnout and attrition (Borman & Dowling, 2008; Hong, 2010; Lovewell, 2012), including stressors specific to the changing nature of foreign language teaching (Hiver & Dörnyei, 2015; Wieczorek, 2016) and to higher education (Kinman & Wray, 2013). This study seeks to understand how language teachers perceive of and experience their emotional well-being and what strategies they employ to manage it. Through a series of 12 in-depth, semi-structured interviews with ESL/EFL tertiary-level teachers in the United States, Japan and Austria, we explore a range of contexts examining how participants perceive of factors that add to or detract from their emotional well-being, the challenges and joys these teachers face in their professional and personal lives, and the most salient emotional regulation strategies that they employ to manage their emotions.


2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Turid Kristin Bigum Sundar ◽  
Kirsti Riiser ◽  
Milada Småstuen ◽  
Randi Opheim ◽  
Knut Løndal ◽  
...  

Abstract BackgroundOverweight and obesity are public concerns with risk of adverse health outcomes. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is lower in adolescents than children in general. An increase in body mass index (BMI) is associated with a decrease in HRQoL. The purpose of this study was to measure and explore the HRQoL among adolescents with overweight or obesity who had participated in an intervention study with the aim of increasing PA, reducing BMI and promoting HRQoL.Methods Mixed methods, with a convergent design, were used to investigate how different methodological approaches could expand our understanding of the adolescents’ HRQoL. Quantitative post-intervention data on HRQoL were collected among the 84 intervention participants, aged 13–14 years, using the KIDSCREEN 52 questionnaire. The data were compared with a Norwegian reference population of 244 individuals, and analysed using a non-parametric Mann-Whitney test. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 adolescents from the intervention. A directed approach to content analysis was adopted, using the ten sub-scales from KIDSCREEN 52.ResultsHRQoL in the intervention sample was significantly reduced on the sub-scale of physical well-being compared to the reference population. The reference population scored significantly lower than the intervention sample on the sub-scale of parent relation and home life. No significant differences were found on the other sub-scales. The qualitative data supported the quantitative findings on the sub-scale of physical well-being, but showed that perceptions of fitness, energy level or health could vary. Regarding parent relations, the interviewees extended this to include relationships to other family members as equally important. Most of the interviewees expressed a negative view of their bodies, but not their clothing or accessories. This may explain why no statistically significant differences were found on these aspects in the results from the KIDSCREEN questionnaire. ConclusionThe use of the KIDSCREEN 52 instrument gave important indications about the adolescents’ HRQoL. Combining methods enabled a comprehensive approach to research on HRQoL, indicating better ways of providing help. More research using the benefits of mixed methods approaches is needed to further elucidate these findings.


2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (17) ◽  
pp. 6836
Author(s):  
Rocío Santo-Tomás Muro ◽  
Carlota Sáenz de Tejada Granados ◽  
Eva J. Rodríguez Romero

Providing conditions for health and well-being, especially for those most exposed to social and environmental inequalities, is a precondition for sustainable development. Green infrastructures in peri-urban areas have the potential to improve the quality of life of locals by fostering healthy practices, providing views, or bringing nature closer to the city. This work explores the local perception of well-being within urban green infrastructures (UGI) in the peri-urban fringe of Madrid (Spain) through a combination of qualitative methods: “go-alongs” and “semi-structured static interviews”. The grounded-theory based codification of the data using NVivo software and their subsequent analysis results in the identification of social, natural, and perceptual elements that prove to play a relevant role in locals’ perception of well-being. Among these, connectivity with other green spaces, panoramic views and place-based memories are aspects that seem to make UGI serve the community at its full potential, including perceived physical and psychological well-being. We identify in each case study both positive characteristics of UGI and dysfunctional aspects and areas of opportunity. Lastly, a methodological, geographical, and theoretical discussion is made on the relevance of the case studies and pertinence of the two interview methods as valuable tools for analysis and intervention in the peri-urban landscape.


Author(s):  
R Holler ◽  
S Werner

Abstract Throughout the years, disabled people, especially those with intellectual and mental disabilities, have frequently been appointed authorised guardians. Having been criticised for restricting individual freedom and autonomy and in line with the 2006 UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, a 2016 reform in Israel's Legal Capacity and Guardianship Law called for restricting the use of guardianship and preferring less restrictive alternatives, specifically supported decision making (SDM). The success of this reform rests largely on social workers. This study examined the meanings social worker attach to guardianship and SDM. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with twenty-seven Israeli social workers. The findings showed that whilst they acknowledged the shortcomings of guardianship, they nevertheless perceived it to be vital. They provided three justifications for this view: guardianship as a safeguarding practice, guardianship as promoting individual well-being and guardianship in the service of third parties. These findings are discussed in terms of their meaning for guardianship as a risk-aversive practice designed to promote service users’ well-being and quality of life and in terms of the role played by third parties in bringing SDM into force. Recommended steps for moving the current reform in guardianship from paper to practice are highlighted.


Author(s):  
Shaya MacDonald ◽  
Susan Korol ◽  
Todd Vassallo ◽  
Cathy MacDougall

The current study evaluated the effectiveness of a novel three-hour Guided Mindfulness Program on participants’ management of depression, anxiety and stress. The intervention included an educational component emphasizing the psychological value of mindfulness practice combined with a practical training component in mindfulness techniques. The Depression Anxiety Stress Scale was administered at three points in time before and after participation in the program. Additionally, semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore perceived quality of life, happiness, and stress 4 to 8 weeks following the program. All participants reported improvements in overall well-being and reported significant decreases in negative affect when comparing pre-program scores (baseline) to follow-up scores. Notably, qualitative interview results indicated that participants attributed most positive post-program results to informal mindfulness practice.


2016 ◽  
Vol 23 (79) ◽  
pp. 656-674
Author(s):  
Walid Abbas El-Aouar ◽  
César Ricardo Maia de Vasconcelos ◽  
Alipio Ramos Veiga Neto

Abstract This study aimed to understand how the insertion of music in the work environment contributes to achieving Quality of Working Life (QWL), from the perspective of biopsychosocial and organisational well-being. The context where the study was conducted was the manufacturing area of a major textile company located in Natal, in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. The use of a case study was the research strategy adopted, with exploratory and descriptive objectives. The primary data was collected through the focus group technique and semi-structured interviews were used as an additional tool. Respecting the theoretical saturation criterion, four focus groups were formed, each comprising eight randomly selected participants from the seventy-six co-workers in the sector. The data was analysed qualitatively, using the content analysis technique. Twenty-eight QWL attributes were identified. It was concluded that musical insertion provides biological, social and, above all, psychological and organisational well-being to the co-workers, contributing to achieving QWL in the work environment researched.


2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S662-S662
Author(s):  
Silvia Orsulic-Jeras ◽  
Sarah Nicolay ◽  
Cristen Kane

Abstract The Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is a national program with many regional offices that offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for seniors. Research demonstrates the importance of volunteering and social participation on the well-being, health and longevity of older individuals. Further, studies of RSVP volunteers have demonstrated marked improvement in their perceived physical, mental health and quality of life (McDonald et al., 2013). Little evidence exists, however, supporting the effectiveness of using senior volunteers to assist with or even lead activities programming for persons with dementia (PWDs). Seniors Making Connections through Music, a group program designed to engage persons in the moderate to advance stages of dementia, included the training of 21 RSVP volunteers to lead or assist with the program. Volunteers were mostly female (95%) and educated (80% college/advanced degree), with more than half reporting professional or personal experiences with dementia (62%). Data were gathered through structured interviews and post-session debrief meetings. Findings suggest volunteers felt they were able to use existing knowledge and experience, received good and helpful supervision, and reported increased knowledge of dementia after volunteering for the group. Other results summarize: Volunteer satisfaction with program, role, tools and materials used, the program’s impact on the community, and willingness to volunteer for the program in the future. Programmatic features, training protocols, and the impact of using retired senior volunteers to strengthen program sustainability will be discussed. Volunteer testimonials and video demonstrations will also be shared.


Autism ◽  
2021 ◽  
pp. 136236132110337
Author(s):  
Jane Goodwin ◽  
Priyanka Rob ◽  
Mark Freeston ◽  
Deborah Garland ◽  
Victoria Grahame ◽  
...  

Approximately 50% of autistic children experience high anxiety. Intolerance of uncertainty (tendency to react negatively to uncertain situations) is a key mechanism in the development and maintenance of anxiety. This study aimed to provide a descriptive, thematic analysis of the impact on uncertainty on the daily lives of autistic children and their families. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with parents and caregivers of 53 autistic children (including 3 dyads) aged 6–16 years to elicit examples of uncertain situations that the children found challenging and to explore the impact of these situations on family life. Thematic analysis revealed five overarching themes: child’s reactions to uncertainty, trying to reduce uncertainty, the impact of difficulties with uncertainty, the impact of uncertainty on parenting and the impact on parents. These findings provide a crucial understanding into the range of uncertain situations autistic children with anxiety experience. Anxiety-reduction approaches based on increasing tolerance to everyday uncertain situations could help improve well-being, quality of life and participation for autistic children and their families. Lay abstract Anxiety is common in autistic children. Research shows that this may be related to intolerance of uncertainty, which is a tendency to react negatively to uncertain situations. Understanding when, why and how autistic children respond to uncertainty is important in the development of anxiety programmes. We asked 53 (including 3 dyads) parents of autistic children about the types of uncertain situations that cause difficulties for their child and how uncertainty impacts on daily life for them and their families. We found that uncertain situations made autistic children and their families feel sad, worried, frustrated and angry through the themes: child’s reactions to uncertainty, trying to reduce uncertainty, the impact of difficulties with uncertainty, the impact of uncertainty on parenting and the impact on parents. There are lots of situations that are anxiety provoking for autistic children because of uncertainty, such as school. Programmes to reduce anxiety and increase autistic children’s ability to cope with everyday uncertain situations could improve quality of life for autistic children and their families.


2018 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 55-67
Author(s):  
Mara Cristina Ribeiro ◽  
Alice Correia Barros ◽  
Marinho Da Silva Correia ◽  
Rebeca De Oliveira Lessa ◽  
Lucas Nascimento Tavares ◽  
...  

Introdução: O modelo de atenção psicossocial tem exigido profissionais comprometidos com um novo paradigma de cuidado que traz novos e diferentes desafios, podendo gerar nos trabalhadores satisfação, insatisfação, bem como outros sentimentos que envolvem a efetivação das novas propostas. A satisfação ou a insatisfação com o trabalho incorre em consequências que podem ser fonte de alegria e bem-estar ou acarretar prejuízos à saúde do trabalhador e à qualidade do serviço prestado. Objetivo: A pesquisa teve como objetivo conhecer e analisar a satisfação e outros sentimentos gerados no exercício do trabalho nos Centros de Atenção Psicossocial. Método: Trata-se de pesquisa qualitativa desenvolvida com 19 trabalhadores de nível superior representantes de 04 serviços de uma capital do Nordeste. Os dados foram coletados por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas e analisados com base na Análise Categorial. Resultados: A identificação com a área, a motivação em aprofundar seus conhecimentos e os bons resultados alcançados com as novas propostas de cuidado aparecem como determinantes para que o trabalhador se sinta satisfeito. No entanto, constatou-se que os profissionais se deparam cotidianamente com problemas que foram associados à geração de insatisfações e outros sentimentos como angústia, incapacidade, tristeza e frustração. Conclusão: As questões levantadas sugerem necessidade de maiores investimentos nesses serviços, capacitações dos profissionais, ampliação e diversificação da rede de atenção psicossocial para garantir satisfação no exercício do trabalho e na qualidade da assistência prestada.Palavras-chave: Saúde mental. Serviços de Saúde Mental. Pessoal de Saúde. Satisfação no Emprego. Pesquisa Qualitativa. ABSTRACT: Introduction: The psychosocial care model has required professionals committed to a new care paradigm that brings new and different challenges, which can generate satisfaction in workers, dissatisfaction, and other feelings that involve the execution of the new proposals. The satisfaction or dissatisfaction with the work incurs consequences that can be a source of joy and well-being or cause damage to workers' health and quality of service. Objective: The objective was to identify and analyze the satisfaction and other feelings generated in the performance of work in Psychosocial Care Centers. Method: This is a qualitative research conducted with 19 top-level workers representatives from 04 of the capital of Northeast services. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed based on Categorical Analysis. Results: Identification with the area, the motivation to deepen their knowledge and the good results achieved with the new care proposals appear as decisive for the worker to feel satisfied. However, it was found that professionals are faced daily with problems that were associated with the generation of dissatisfactions and other feelings such as anxiety, failure, sadness and frustration. Conclusion: The issues raised suggest the need for greater investment in these services, training of professionals, expansion and diversification of psychosocial care network to ensure satisfaction in work performance and quality of care.Keywords: Mental Health. Mental Health Services. Health Personnel. Job Satisfaction. Qualitative Research.


Healthcare ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (1) ◽  
pp. 14
Author(s):  
Brenda M. Uribe-Morales ◽  
Pablo A. Cantero-Garlito ◽  
Carmen Cipriano-Crespo

Objective: to explore the perception and experience of fathers of children with disabilities in caring for their children; to know their role and how these tasks impact their daily life, health and physical, mental and/or emotional well-being. Methodology: qualitative approach study with phenomenological design. The sample consisted of seven young fathers of underage children with various diagnoses. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews; the discourse analysis was carried out through open and axial coding processes. Three themes emerged from the results of the analysis: (1) shared responsibilities, (2) somewhat difficult to fit in, and (3) either you join or you split. Results: Fathers must readjust their work schedule, reduce their working hours, or give up their job altogether to take care of their children, as well as give up their social life. They lack time to enjoy their leisure time, to spend time with their partner, to take care of themselves. This involvement in caregiving generates an important occupational imbalance that has repercussions above all on their mental health. Conclusions: The sharing of caregiving tasks also impacts significantly on parents’ lives, it also takes away time and opportunities, and sometimes health and quality of life.


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