https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/41055 2026-05-06T12:03:52Z 2026-05-06T12:03:52Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/107191 2023-03-08T08:23:24Z 1996-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Classification of von Willebrand disease in Maltese patients Abstract: Von Willebrand factor (vWF) plays a key role in platelet adhesion, thrombus formation and coagulation, the latter as carrier protein for factor VIII(F VIII). VWF deficiencies lead to von Willebrand Disease(vWD), the most common congenital bleeding disorder. Approximately 125 individuals per million population have symptomatic vWD, and this is roughly twice the prevalence of hemophilia A. Asymptomatic inherited defects in von Willebrand factor(VWF) function are extremely common and are detectable in nearly 1 % of unselected persons. In a survey of European patients, the prevalence of treated vWD varied from 4.5 to 24 per million. Preliminary results of an international survey of vWD indicate that about 3% of treated patients have seroconversion to human immunodeficiency virus, 50% of whom have symptoms. Recent progress in the characterization of mutations that cause vWD has provided the necessary stimulus to re-address the issue of how vWD is classified. In response to this situation, in July 1993, the subcommitee on vWF of the Scientific and Standardization Committee of the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis proposed a simplified phenotypic classification of van Willebrand disease based on differences in pathophysiology. The revised classification basically distinguishes partial quantitative (type 1), qualitative (type 2) and total quantitative (type 3) deficiency of vWF. A goal for the new classification is to maximize the correlation of subtypes with treatment choices as it depends on the accurate diagnosis and classification of vWD in the patient. Specific aims: Tu try to identify all Maltese patients suffering from von Willebrand Disease by inviting all family members of all known cases of vWD patients to participate in the study. To perform two new assays which were never performed locally to help in the routine assay panel used to classifying Maltese patients in the recent revised classification. This is important as there are many treatment choices depending on the accurate diagnosis and classification of vWD in the patient for a successful patient management. Finally, genetic counselling for all the extended family for a better understanding of their bleeding condition. Description: B.SC.(HONS)MED.LAB.SCI.

1996-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/88882 2022-02-15T07:15:21Z 1996-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: An exploration of student nurses' attitudes towards communication with elderly patients on acute medical wards Abstract: This study was carried out to explore student nurses' attitudes towards communication with elderly patients in acute medical wards. The reviewed literature indicated that communication with the elderly on acute medical wards is affected by the ward culture including task orientation of care and qualified nurses' attitudes towards care of the elderly. In addition student nurses' communication has been found to be influenced by 'work' values on medical wards. However there appeared to be a gap in the literature regarding student nurses' opinion on this issue. In order to study this issue a descriptive exploratory approach was used utilising a questionnaire incorporating a profile of an elderly patient on an acute medical ward. This collected qualitative and quantitative data from a convenience sample of 22 diploma nursing students. The findings indicated that the participants generally held positive attitudes towards communicating with elderly patients on acute medical ward and were largely satisfied with their education on nurse communication. However they frequently identified constraints to interaction with elderly patients on medical wards such as the theory practice gap, task orientation of care and qualified nurses' attitudes. Findings were discussed and recommendations made to improve care of the elderly on medical wards through communication. Description: B.SC.(HONS)NURSING

1996-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/65154 2020-12-06T06:51:33Z 1996-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Therapeutic play in the care of children : nurses' knowledge and awareness Abstract: The use of therapeutic play is an important component of a comprehensive psychosocial approach to working with sick children. It is documented that this type of play renders the child less anxious and more co-operative for medical procedures. In addition the role of the nurse in the use of therapeutic play, to help children through procedures is strongly advocated. The purpose of this study was to primarily explore the knowledge nurses have regarding the use of therapeutic play, and their awareness of its beneficial use during intravenous cannulation. This study was conducted at St Luke's Hospital on the three general paediatric wards. The sample consisted of thirty-two nurses, and a descriptive non-experimental approach was chosen. A questionnaire was delivered and analysis was mainly qualitative. The data revealed that overall, nurses appeared to be aware of their role in the use of therapeutic play. However, they did not always show knowledge about its use and benefits. Factors which could influence the knowledge and awareness of nurses regarding the benefits of therapeutic play were identified. The implications of the study and recommendations were discussed. Description: B.SC.(HONS)NURSING

1996-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/65128 2020-12-06T06:53:14Z 1996-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Oral handovers : an observational study Abstract: The handover is traditionally an essential part of nursing. The handover should provide adequate information concerning patient care and ward activities to the incoming shift, so that safe and efficient care may be practiced. An observational study was designed to describe the process of the morning handover on two general surgical wards. The objectives of the study were to observe the length of the handover, the persons giving and receiving the handover, the type of information handed over and any other activities that occurred during the handover. Non-participant observation, using a checklist was the method chosen for the data collection. The results showed that the handovers were short in length, two handovers take place between the night-to-day and the day-to-day stafl: the nurse handing over was not always the same person who had initially received the handover and interruptions occurred which seem to disrupt the handover. This study suggests a need for further research into the process of the handover, as well as to investigate nurses' beliefs concerning handovers, so as to give an overall view of the handover process. It also indicates, a need for improvement in the current process of the handovers. Description: B.SC.(HONS)NURSING

1996-01-01T00:00:00Z