https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/40612 2026-04-14T23:40:47Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/112004 Title: Analysis of the training needs of mental health professionals at Mount Carmel Hospital Abstract: The purpose of this study was to identify the training needs of mental health professionals in Mount Carrel Hospital and to assess their perceptions, attitudes and needs toward Continuing Professional Development, as well as motivating factors to engage in continuing professional development programmes. No such research has ever been carried out within Mount Carmel Hospital. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used throughout the study. Questionnaires were distributed among health care professionals currently working in Mount Carmel Hospital. 38% of the population responded. In-depth interviews were conducted with 7 heads of departments/sections to obtain the management's perspective. Findings highlighted both the needs and motivating factors of mental health professionals in pursuing continuing professional development activities; however, although continuing professional development may be encouraged by the hospital management, many of the respondents commented on the lack of available structures and support within the organization. This study identified the support and benefits required by mental health professionals to engage in continuing professional developments as well as areas in which they require further training. It also revealed the real importance that mental health professionals attach to continuing professionals developments. However, the organization have to review and improve ways to support their staff with on going continuing professional development activities to ensure that they provide best quality care that meets user's needs. This can only be done by the development of an appropriate human resource policy for mental health training in order to provide a coherent framework for workforce development. Description: P.Q.DIP.HEALTH SERVICES MANGT. 2006-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/112003 Title: A time and motion study at Karen Grech operating theatres Abstract: There is no doubt that hospitals are moving towards increasing efficiency and in finding possible ways to improve their present performance. An extensive literature review was carried out to see what other hospitals overseas are doing, so as to inform the researcher about similar related issues in hospitals overseas and about measures taken to alleviate such problems. In order to reach these objectives, the study used a quantitative non-experimental design in attempt to elicit possible factors that are affecting theatre efficiency. The study was carried out in Karen Grech Operating Theatres using a systematic approach. Ten nurses took the role of data collectors over a period of two weeks. The journey of one hundred and sixty-five patients was observed. The audit tool was developed based on eight-step approach referred by Buchanon & Wilson (1996) as the "Activity Chain". Each step in the process was timed and recorded. Steps included - the transferring time, waiting times, late starts, and distances from ward to theatre. Findings show interesting outcomes, such as the 42% - 45% theatre efficiency. The indications are that theatre utilisation is not being used to its full potential. On the basis of the outcomes, recommendations are presented for the management's expert advice. Description: P.Q.DIP.HEALTH SERVICES MANGT. 2006-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/111767 Title: Quality of life of coeliac patients before and after initiation of the gluten-free diet Abstract: Coeliac disease is characterised by malabsorption resulting from inflammatory injury to the mucosa of the small intestine after ingestion of wheat gluten or related rye and barley proteins. There is clinical and histologic improvement on a strict gluten-free diet (GFD) and relapse when dietary gluten is reintroduced. Quality of life of coeliac patients is often impaired since the GFD has an impact on a person's social and physiological well-being. The study consisted of two parts. In Study I, the quality of life of newly diagnosed coeliac patients was assessed by means of a questionnaire, and compared to the quality of life of coeliac patients established on a gluten-free diet and to control groups. In Study II, focus groups were held on two occasions to discuss issues affecting Coeliac patients eg: availability of gluten-free food, factors leading to lack of compliance, food labeling etc. Results of Study I show that the quality of life, as assessed by the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) and SF-36, was highest in the Control Group patients, lower in Coeliac patients who had been following the gluten-free diet for over a year and lowest in newly diagnosed coeliac patients. Results of Study II show that Coeliac patients are troubled by a number of factors which include: the limited availability of gluten-free foods, presence of gluten in medications, food labeling, low availability of restaurants which cater for Coeliac patients both in the local scenario and abroad and future risk of developing malignancies. This study concludes that individuals suffering from Coeliac disease would greatly benefit from unified dietary guidelines, specific goals for the management of Coeliac disease and increased sensitivity to the psychological and emotional impact diagnosis and treatment has on such patients. Description: P.Q.DIP.NUTRITION&DIETETICS 2006-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/111765 Title: An evaluation of the discharge planning process at Zammit Clapp Hospital Abstract: Older people are being discharged from hospital to the community with higher levels of dependency. Ideally health services are designed to meet the needs and demands of defined populations such as the elderly, with discharge planning being an essential component of service delivery. It has substantial implications for the use of health and social care resources. Quality practices in health care result from structured reflection on what was done, what was achieved and what could be done better, then putting constructive actions in place to change practices. This study was carried out to assess the extent to which patients' and carers' have been involved and have been informed about the discharge process and to assess their level of satisfaction with the discharge planning process at Zammit Clapp Hospital, an acute and rehabilitation hospital for the elderly in Malta. The study consisted of a convenience sample of 50 patients and 50 carers. A mixed research design consisting of quantitative and qualitative data was used. Interviews were carried out by the researcher one- week post discharge from Zammit Clapp Hospital. The main findings suggested that despite the fact that an adequate amount of information was given to patients and carers some areas in information exchange and education sessions merit improvement. Post discharge needs were assessed and discussed with patients' and carers' while at ZCH. The involvement and expectations of carers in the discharge planning process and outcome differed from that of patients. Overall patients were satisfied with the discharge planning practices and services at ZCH. In retrospect carers said that they were well prepared for caring for the patient while in hospital. Limitations and recommendations that arise from the study are discussed. Description: P.Q.DIP.HEALTH SERVICES MANGT. 2006-01-01T00:00:00Z