https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/40448 Sun, 19 Apr 2026 19:26:15 GMT 2026-04-19T19:26:15Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/65406 Title: Hypertensives' knowledge of their condition Abstract: Aminoff and Kjellgren (2001) describe hypertension as a chronic condition and a major public health problem. The aim of this study was to investigate the knowledge of persons with hypertension of their condition. This quantitative study utilized a convenient sample of 11 patients, which were obtained from two different health centers. A structured interview was used as a mean of data collection to get the information needed. The results showed that on the whole, persons who are hypertensive and attend the primary health care clinics know the normal values of blood pressure and also they appeared to know the relationship of hypertension with heart disease however some seemed not to know about hypertension as a risk factor for diabetes and renal problems. Emotional stress and salt intake were considered as the main culprits of hypertension. Being overweight and not doing exercise were seen as contributors to hypertension. Alcohol and smoking were not rated highly as factors, which contribute to hypertension. Genetic factors were also seen as contributors however the participants did not consider it as a main cause of hypertension. Patients also seemed to know that drugs should be taken for a lifetime even when their blood pressure is stabilized. In addition the main sources of knowledge on hypertension for patients were found to be mainly the doctor and television. As a result of this study it is therefore recommended that the same study is carried out on a larger scale. It is also thought to be beneficial if a nurse's clinic is set up to solely emphasize health education and health promotion of the clients. Description: B.SC.(HONS)NURSING Wed, 01 Jan 2003 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/65406 2003-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/65155 Title: Orthopaedic nurses' knowledge and awareness of the prevention and identification of deep vein thrombosis Abstract: The aim of this study was to explore orthopaedic nurses' knowledge and awareness of the prevention and identification of DVT. Literature on DVT management and drug prophylaxes is vast, however, no literature on nurses' knowledge and awareness of DVT prevention and identification was found. This identifies both a gap in the literature and the importance of this study. A descriptive non-experimental design was used. Self-administered questionnaire build on the literature review was used to fulfil the study' s aim. Twenty two orthopaedic nurses working in a local hospital were included in the study. These represent the total population eligible for this study. A response rate of 100% was obtained. The findings of this study suggest that the orthopaedic nurses are well informed on areas which they practice on a daily bases such as the prophylactic drugs used locally but they are not up to date with recent literature. This implies that their knowledge emerges from their practice rather than from the literature. Some recommendations are made including the initiation to employ the DVT risk assessment tools in the orthopaedic wards and to carry out an observational study to explore the impact of nurses' knowledge and awareness of DVT on nurses' practice. Description: B.SC.(HONS)NURSING Wed, 01 Jan 2003 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/65155 2003-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/65129 Title: Nurses' perceptions towards mandatory continuing professional development Abstract: Continuing professional development for nurses has been given increasing importance. So much so, that the Directorate of Nursing Services in Malta has proposed that registration should be maintained against proof of continuing professional development. A descriptive research design using self administered questionnaires was undertaken to explore nurses' perceptions towards mandatory continuing professional development. While exploring these perceptions, the study also sought to find out factors influencing continuing professional development selection and attendance. A convenience sample of 34 nurses working in medical and surgical wards were recruited, and a 100% response rate was achieved. The results show that respondents had a general positive attitude towards mandatory continuing professional development. Yet, only half of the respondents were in favour of the implementation of a mandatory system. The findings of this study are discussed, and recommendations for practice and further research have been made. Description: B.SC.(HONS)NURSING Wed, 01 Jan 2003 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/65129 2003-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/65062 Title: Student nurses' perceptions of physical exercise and fitness Abstract: Literature shows that there are several different definitions and concepts of physical exercise and fitness. The studies carried out among student nurses clearly show lack of health promotion time in nursing education curriculum. The available literature suggests the insertion of physical exercise and fitness in the curriculum of nursing students. The purpose of this descriptive, exploratory research was to explore student nurses' perceptions of physical exercise and fitness. The nominal group technique (NGT) was used in this study using twenty nursing (n=20) students, which were divided in two groups of ten (10) to generate ideas and discuss the topics "physical exercise" and "fitness". Non random purposive sampling was used. The discussion was transcribed and qualitative analyses of the data were undertaken. The fmdings showed that the participants have a holistic view of the concepts of "physical exercise" and "fitness". The participants valued not only the quantity of life but even the quality of life. Physical exercise and fitness was described by the participants as a means of protection against physical, psychological/emotional and social problem. Furthermore participants showed concern about the negative influence of the media in their life. Student nurses fail to recognize the benefits that physical exercise and fitness have on prevention of back injuries. Recommendations based on the findings, include more knowledge about how to prevent back injuries; benefits of physical exercise and fitness and the inclusion of extra curricular credits that feature sports in the curriculum of the student nurse course. Moreover, several suggestions for further research exploring various others related aspects have been made. Description: B.SC.(HONS)NURSING Wed, 01 Jan 2003 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/65062 2003-01-01T00:00:00Z