O câncer infantil é uma doença crônica que demanda um tratamento longo, invasivo e doloroso. Os avanços terapêuticos possibilitam sua realização ao nível ambulatorial, no entanto, este se mostra tão desgastante e cansativo quanto a hospitalização. Com isso, é importante que a criança com câncer tenha um espaço para que possa distrair-se, além de expressar suas angústias e ansiedades com relação a sua nova realidade – o mundo da doença e do tratamento oncológico – enquanto aguarda ser atendida. A brinquedoteca se mostra como o espaço capaz de favorecer o desenvolvimento da criança, além de ajudá-la a compreender o que está acontecendo consigo por meio do brincar. A proposta deste estudo é desvelar o sentido de Ser-criança com câncer em tratamento ambulatorial, utilizando a brinquedoteca como possibilidade de favorecer a expressão, pela criança, de seu mundo cotidiano. Para isso foi implantada uma brinquedoteca em um hospital filantrópico de Ribeirão Preto, S. P. Houve a participação de sete crianças entre 3 e 9 anos com diagnóstico de algum tipo de câncer infantil, no período de agosto/01 a janeiro/02. Durante o retorno médico, a criança era convidada a brincar na brinquedoteca e orientada a permanecer o período que desejasse. Após as “sessões de brinquedo", as fitas foram transcritas e complementadas com as observações anotadas. A fim de desvelar o sentido das vivências das crianças com câncer em tratamento ambulatorial, foi realizada uma análise à luz da fenomenologia existencial de Martin Heidegger. A criança-com-câncer configurou-se como um ir e vir permeado ora pela autenticidade, quando a criança assumia sua doença e seu ser-para-a-morte, ora pela inautenticidade, quando deixava-se levar pelo modo de ser da decadência dos familiares e da equipe de saúde. O brincar pôde favorecer um rico acesso às vivências da criança gravemente doente. / Children’s cancer is a chronic disease that demands a long, invasive and painful treatment. The therapeutic advances enable the ambulatory treatment. However, it is as stressful as the hospitalization. Therefore, it is important for the child to have space to express their anxieties regarding this new reality – the disease’s world and the oncology treatment– when they are waiting to receive their treatment. The playing room is a place that favors the children’s development and help them to understand what is happening with them while they play. The purpose of this study is to learn the meaning of being children with cancer being submitted to ambulatory treatment and using the play room as a possibility to enable their expression about their world. Thus, a play room was built at a philanthropic hospital in the city of Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil. Seven children from 3 to 9 years of age with the diagnosis of cancer participated in the study from August, 2001 to January, 2002. During their appointments, the children were invited to play and oriented to stay there as long as they wanted. After the playing sessions, the tapes were transcribed and complemented with observations. Aiming at learning about the meaning of these experiences to children with cancer, author analyzed these data based on the Marting Heidegger’s existential phenomenology. The children-with-cancer showed a movement that was permeated sometimes by the authenticity, when the child assumed the disease and their being-to-death and also by the lack of authenticity, when they were influenced by their family and members of the health team. The situation of playing enabled the access to these children who were severely ill.

Introdução: No tocante à terapêutica antineoplásica, há três tipos de tratamentos que podem ser aplicados isoladamente, sequencialmente ou concomitantemente: cirurgia, radioterapia e quimioterapia. A complexidade do tratamento requer uma assistência segura e de qualidade que se torna, ainda mais desafiadora quando o maior volume dos atendimentos acontece em regime ambulatorial. Desse modo, torna-se fundamental, o adequado gerenciamento dos recursos humanos, o qual se inicia com a previsão de profissionais. Nesse sentido, o método Workload Indicators of Staffing Need (WISN) desenvolvido pela Organização Mundial de Saúde, fundamentado na avaliação da carga de trabalho despendida pelos profissionais, baseia-se em padrões de tempo das intervenções/atividades de saúde, utilizando os dados estatísticos disponíveis nas instituições .Objetivo: Avaliar a aplicação do método Workload Indicators of Staffing Need (WISN) para dimensionar a equipe de enfermagem para o cuidado a pacientes oncológicos em regime ambulatorial. Método: pesquisa de campo observacional e documental, com abordagem quantitativa e amostra intencional, realizada nos Ambulatórios de Clínicas Integradas, Quimioterapia, Radioterapia e Hospital Dia de um hospital público, de grande porte, especializado em Oncologia, localizado no município de São Paulo, com diversos selos de qualidade. Para aplicação do método realizou-se o conjunto de operações nas etapas preconizadas. Os dados estatísticos das ausências previstas e não previstas, bem como os relativos à produção da equipe de enfermagem foram obtidos junto á Diretoria Geral de Assistência. O instrumento de coleta de dados foi composto por 38 intervenções/atividades. Para a identificação do tempo despendido nas intervenções/atividades foi aplicada a técnica amostragem do trabalho, com observação direta de 51 enfermeiros e 50 técnicos de enfermagem, em intervalo de cinco minutos, por 47 dias. O cálculo do tempo das intervenções/atividades de enfermagem fundamentou-se no tempo total disponível dos profissionais e na categorização das intervenções/atividades propostas pelo método em questão. Resultados: Foram realizadas 16322 observações, sendo 12,6% a amostra de reteste, com 85% de concordância no teste de confiabilidade entre as observadoras de campo e a pesquisadora. O quadro de profissionais de enfermagem necessários para atender a carga de trabalho, na maior parte dos setores estudados não apresentou discrepância em relação ao existente. Os padrões de tempo utilizados nos cálculos expressaram a realidade dos setores e todos os componentes foram considerados adequados para as categorias profissionais envolvidas. A observação direta e o estudo de tempos foram as formas utilizadas para obtenção dos padrões das intervenções com maior precisão. Conclusão: O método WISN mostrou-se adequado para dimensionar os profissionais, fornecendo evidências sobre o quadro necessário para os setores. Entretanto, sua utilização pressupõe como condição a disponibilidade de dados estatísticos completos e organizados sistematicamente sobre a carga de trabalho dos profissionais e dos setores. Os resultados forneceram uma visão geral das intervenções/atividades de enfermagem realizadas nos setores ambulatoriais, bem como elas distribuíram-se dentro do tempo de trabalho, o que pode subsidiar a revisão de alguns processos da assistência de enfermagem para melhor atender os pacientes. Os padrões de tempo encontrados, neste estudo, poderão ser referências para o dimensionamento de enfermagem e a aplicação do método Workload Indicators of Staffing Need (WISN), propiciando discussões e reflexões sobre o atendimento com qualidade e segurança aos pacientes oncológicos em regime ambulatorial. / Introduction: regarding antineoplastic therapy, there are three types of treatments which can be applied separately, sequentially or simultaneously: surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The complexity of the treatment requires safe and high quality assistance which becomes even more challenging when most health care takes place in the outpatient setting. Thus, the appropriate management of human resources becomes fundamental, which begins with staffing requirements. Therefore, the Workload Indicators of Staffing Need method, developed by the World Health Organization, substantiated on workers workload evaluations, is based on time patterns of the health activities/interventions, using statistical data available in the institutions. Objective: To evaluate the application of the Workload Indicators of Staffing Need (WISN) method to calculate the nursing workforce for oncology patient care in the outpatient setting. Method: documentary and observational field research with intentional sample and quantitative approach, conducted in the output departments of Clínicas Integradas (Integrated Clinics), Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy and Day Hospital of an accredited public oncology hospital, situated in the city of São Paulo. In order to apply the method, the group of operations / protocols were performed following the steps suggested. The absence and productivity statistical datum were obtained at the general assistance board department. The data collection instrument was combined of 38 interventions/activities. The work sampling technique was used to identify the time spent on the interventions/activities, with direct observation of 51 nurses and 50 nurse assistants, having 5-minute intervals during 47 days. The time calculation of the nursing interventions / activities was based on the workers total available time and the interventions / activities categorization proposed by the WISN method. Results: 16322 field observations were conducted, 12,6% was sample retest, with 85% agreement among field observers and the researcher. The nursing staffing required to manage the workload, and most of the departments observed have not shown discrepancies regarding the current. The time standards used in the calculations conveyed the reality of the departments and all the components were considered appropriate for the professional categories involved. The direct observation and the time study were used in order to obtain more accurate pattern interventions. Conclusion: The WISN method proved to be suitable to determine staffing requirements, providing evidence on staffing in each department. However, in order to apply the WISN method it is necessary to have complete and systematically organized statistical data of the workers workloads and the setting. The results showed a general view of the nursing interventions/activities in outpatient departments, as well as the distribution during workload, which may suggest the review of some nursing protocols in order to improve the patients assistance. The time standards found in this study may be reference to measure the nursing staffing requirements and to apply the WISN method, promoting discussions and critical thinking on providing oncology patients with safe and high quality assistance in the outpatient facility.

Esse estudo foi realizado de maneira prospectiva e randomizada com o objetivo de comparar duas técnicas de vasectomia. Foram avaliados 644 pacientes. Na técnica sem bisturi foram utilizadas duas pinças específicas. O tempo médio da técnica sem bisturi foi de 20,95 minutos e da convencional 22,95. Infecção de ferida operatória e epididimites foram menores na técnica sem bisturi. Não houve diferença entre as técnicas nas complicações intra-operatórias e pós-operatórias. Dez pacientes apresentaram espermatozóides vivos no espermograma de controle. A técnica sem bisturi apresenta um menor tempo cirúrgico e um menor índice de infecção que a técnica convencional. O índice de falha foi semelhante em ambas as técnicas / This study was carried out with objective of comparison two techiniques of vasectomy. Six hundred and fourteen four patients were assessed. For the no-scalpel technique, two specific clamps were used. The operating time for the no scalpel technique was less than for the conventional technique. There was a smaller percentage of infection of the operative wound and epididymitis in the no scalpel technique. There was no difference between the techniques with respect to complications during the operation and later complications. The no scalpel technique requires less time in surgery and has a lower infection rate than the conventional technique. The failure rate was similar for both techniques

by Tong Lai Wah, Christina. / Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 1999. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 101-112). / Abstracts in English and Chinese. / Title Page --- p.i / Authorization Page --- p.ii / Signature Page --- p.iii / Acknowledgements --- p.iv / Table of Contents --- p.v-viii / List of Figures --- p.ix / List of Tables --- p.x / List of Append --- p.ix xi / Title Page --- p.xii / Abstract --- p.xiii / Chapter 1 --- Introduction --- p.14-15 / Chapter 2 --- Literature Review --- p.16-24 / Chapter 2.1 --- Introduction / Chapter 2.2 --- End-stage renal disease / Chapter 2.3 --- Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis / Chapter 2.4 --- Patient participation / Chapter 2.4.1 --- Definition of participation / Chapter 2.4.2 --- Benefits of participation / Chapter 2.4.3 --- Problems of patient participation / Chapter 2.4.4 --- Application of patient participation / Chapter 2.5 --- Conclusion / Chapter 3 --- Methodology --- p.25-43 / Chapter 3.1 --- Introduction / Chapter 3.2 --- Overview of grounded theory / Chapter 3.3 --- Procedures / Chapter 3.3.1 --- Data generation / Chapter - --- Sampling / Chapter - --- Data gathering / Chapter - --- Data recording / Chapter 3.3.2 --- Data analysis / Chapter - --- Open coding / Chapter - --- Constant comparative analysis / Chapter - --- Categorization / Chapter - --- Axial coding / Chapter - --- Theoretical sensitivity / Chapter - --- Memoing / Chapter 3.3.3 --- Theory construction / Chapter - --- Core category / Chapter 3.4 --- Method application / Chapter 3.4.1 --- Data collection / Chapter - --- Sampling / Chapter - --- Interview / Chapter - --- Recording / Chapter 3.4.2 --- Data analysis / Chapter - --- Open coding / Chapter - --- Constant comparative analysis / Chapter - --- Categorization and Axial coding / Chapter - --- Theoretical sensitivity / Chapter - --- Memoing / Chapter 3.4.3 --- Theoretical construction / Chapter - --- Concept formation / Chapter - --- Concept development / Chapter 3.5 --- Credibility & Trustworthiness / Chapter 3.6 --- Conclusion / Chapter 4 --- Findings --- p.44-72 / Chapter 4.1 --- Introduction / Chapter 4.2 --- Core category: Integrative Restructuring / Chapter 4.3 --- Emotional Labour / Chapter 4.3.1 --- Entering the active zone / Chapter (a) --- Conditions to go into active zone / Chapter (b) --- Outcomes of emotional labour / Chapter (c) --- Strategies used for emotional labour / Chapter - --- Letting go of emotions / Chapter - --- Aligning cognitive consistency / Chapter - --- Maximizing ego / Chapter - --- Locating self / Chapter - --- Boosting power / Chapter i. --- Active control / Chapter ii. --- Building positive expectancies / Chapter iii. --- Covariance to positive expectancies / Chapter 4.3.2 --- Retreating into comfort zone / Chapter (a) --- Contexts of comfort zone / Chapter (b) --- Conditions to build comfort zone / Chapter (c) --- Strategies used within comfort zone / Chapter - --- Defending / Chapter - --- Relinquishing / Chapter - --- Anchoring / Chapter 4.3.3 --- Migrating between the two zones / Chapter (a) --- Conditions to initiate the move / Chapter (b) --- Covariance to the movement / Chapter (c) --- Strategies to make progress / Chapter 4.4 --- Conclusion / Chapter 5 --- Discussion --- p.73-92 / Chapter 5.1 --- Introduction / Chapter 5.2 --- Theoretical framework / Chapter 5.3 --- Core category: Integrative Restructuring / Chapter 5.4 --- Variables affecting the move to active zone / Chapter 5.4.1 --- Preparations / Chapter 5.4.2 --- Support / Chapter (a) --- Source of support / Chapter (b) --- Context of support / Chapter (c) --- Effects of support / Chapter (i) --- Effects upon support-seekers / Chapter (ii) --- Supporter's reaction to support-giving relationship / Chapter 5.4.3 --- Commitment / Chapter (a) --- Perception of the situation / Chapter (b) --- Cultural influences / Chapter 5.4.4 --- Control / Chapter 5.5 --- Conclusion / Chapter 6 --- Concluding Chapter --- p.93-100 / Chapter 6.1 --- Limitations / Chapter 6.2 --- Implications / Chapter 6.2.1 --- Practice / Chapter 6.2.2 --- Research / Chapter 6.2.3 --- Teaching / Chapter 6.2.4 --- Policy Making / Chapter 6.2.5 --- Summary / Chapter 6.3 --- Future research / Chapter 6.4 --- Reflections upon the study / Chapter 6.5 --- Conclusion / References --- p.101-112

Thesis (B.S.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, 1979. / MICROFICHE COPY AVAILABLE IN ARCHIVES AND ENGINEERING. / Includes bibliographical references. / by David Howard Turkel. / B.S.

Thesis. 1975. M.C.P.--Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Dept. of Urban Studies and Planning. / Bibliography: leaves 103-109. / by Georgia A. Lovett. / M.C.P.

Objetivo: O presente estudo objetivou comparar o efeito da intervenção de instrução complementar isolada e associada a recursos auxiliares, na adesão terapêutica medicamentosa de pacientes com epilepsia, além de verificar a correlação entre as medidas de adesão utilizadas - dosagem sérica de drogas antiepilépticas (DAEs), frequência de crises e autorrelato. Método: Realizou-se uma pesquisa clínica, experimental, incluindo 91 indivíduos com diagnóstico de epilepsia em acompanhamento ambulatorial que apresentavam alteração na adesão ao tratamento medicamentoso (Universal Trial Number- U1111-1142-3660). A alocação foi realizada de forma randomizada em Grupo Intervenção 1 (instrução complementar), Intervenção 2 (instrução complementar e lembrete da tomada da medicação por alarme de celular) e Intervenção 3 (instrução complementar e caixa organizadora de medicação). As mensurações da adesão foram realizadas imediatamente antes e quatro semanas após a implantação das intervenções. Resultados: A distribuição dos participantes quanto ao gênero foi similar. A idade média foi de 37,8 anos (dp= 12,1). A escolaridade foi, em média, de 9,8 anos (dp= 3,3). Cerca de metade dos pacientes era da raça negra, não tinha vínculo conjugal e não estava inserida no mercado de trabalho. A duração do tratamento com DAEs foi em média de 20,7 anos (dp=12,9), o Índice de Complexidade do Tratamento Medicamentoso em Epilepsia (ICTME) médio foi 18,8 pontos (dp= 9,8), predominou a politerapia (68,3%) e as crises do tipo focal sintomática (75,6%). Na avaliação inicial, 59,4% dos pacientes tinham percepção de que suas crises não estavam adequadamente controladas e os participantes da amostra informaram apresentar em média 4,9 crises no mês anterior (dp= 13,0). Indicação de baixa e média adesão pelo teste de Morisky foi um critério para inclusão na amostra e 84,6% dos participantes apresentou média adesão antes das intervenções. Na dosagem sérica inicial das DAEs, somente 42% dos participantes tiveram nível inferior ao terapêutico. Não houve correlação entre os resultados das medidas de adesão utilizadas, também não houve associação estatisticamente significativa das categorias do Morisky com a presença de crises e dosagem sérica inferior ao nível terapêutico. Além de tudo, a presença de crise foi independente da dosagem sérica abaixo da desejável. Segundo o teste de Morisky, os três grupos apresentaram melhora na adesão, significativa (p<0,001) e similar (p=0,870), após as intervenções. A frequência de crises e a dosagem sérica indicaram que somente o grupo de intervenção 2 apresentou aumento na adesão na avaliação final; entretanto, quando o efeito clínico desejado com as intervenções foi analisado, não se observou diferença estatisticamente significativa entre os três grupos. Conclusão: A instrução complementar, sobre a doença e regime terapêutico prescrito, aplicada isoladamente apresentou efeito similar ao seu uso associado com o lembrete de tomada de medicamentos por alarme de celular e caixa organizadora de medicamentos. Não obstante, os valores das medidas de adesão não convergiram e, enquanto o escore do teste de Morisky indicou o aumento da adesão dos três grupos após as intervenções, a dosagem sérica e a frequência de crises apontaram essa melhora somente no grupo em que o alarme de celular foi utilizado. / Goal: This studys purpouse is compare the effect of the intervention of additional instruction alone and its association to ancillary resources to the medication adherence of patients with epilepsy, as well as investigate the correlation between the adherence measures used - serum levels of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), frequency of crisis and self-report. Method: We performed a clinical, experimental research, including 91 individuals with a diagnosis of epilepsy in outpatient following with altered adherence to drug treatment (Universal Trial Number- U1111-1142-3660). The allocation was done randomly in Intervention Group 1 (supplementary statement), Intervention 2 (supplementary investigation and medication reminder alarm of mobile phone) and Intervention 3 (supplementary instruction and medication organizer box). Measurements were taken immediately before and four weeks after the implantation of the interventions. Results: The distribution of participants according to gender was similar. The average age was 37,8 years (SD = 12,1). Schooling was on average 9,8 years (SD = 3,3). About half of patients were black, had no marital bond and were not inserted in the labor market. The treatment with AEDs lasted on average 20,7 years (SD = 12,9), the Epilepsy Medication and Treatment Complexity Index (EMTCI) average was 18,8 points (SD = 9,8), polytherapy (68,3%) and symptomatic focal seizures (75,6%) were predominant. At baseline, 59,4% of patients thought that their seizures were not adequately controlled and the sample reported an average of 4,9 seizures the previous month (SD = 13,0). Indication of low and intermediate adherence by Morisky test was a criterion for inclusion in the sample and 84,6% of participants showed an average adherence before interventions. Considering the initial serum levels of AEDs, only 42% of participants had less than the therapeutic level. There was no correlation between the results of the adherence measures used, and there was no statistically significant association of the categories of Morisky on the presence of seizures and serum level less than the therapeutic level. Above all, the frequency of crisis was independent of the serum level below the desired dosage. According to the Morisky test, the three groups showed improvement in adherence, significant (p <0,001) and similar (p = 0,870) after the intervention. The frequency of seizures and the serum level indicated that only the intervention group 2 showed increase in adherence at the final evaluation; however, when the desired clinical effect with the interventions was analyzed, no statistically significant difference among the three groups was seen. Conclusion: The additional instruction on the illness and prescribed treatment regimen applied alone had similar effect to its use associated with medication reminder alarm by mobile phone and medication organizer box. Nevertheless, the values of the adherence measurements have not converged, and while the score of the Morisky test indicated increased adherence of the three groups after intervention, the serum level and the frequency of seizures showed improvement only in the group where the alarm cell was used.

末期腎衰竭乃是一種慢性並且會持續惡化的疾病，現時唯一的治療方案便是腎功能替代療法。在香港，一般新發現患有末期腎衰竭的病人，將會被安排進行持續性家居腹膜透析。接受持續性家居腹膜透析的病人均需遵照以下四項治療性方案(包括限制膳食和流質食物，服用處方葯物，及跟從腹膜透析的指引)，以減慢病程的惡化。以往有關病人遵照治療性方案的研究，大多側重於使用血液透析的病人及醫護專業人仕的評估。本研究的目的乃是從現正進行持續性家居腹膜透析的病人的觀點，去明白及解釋病人遵照治療性方案的模式。 / 此硏究採用混合方法硏究設計，並分兩期進行。在第一期的調查，173位病人自我評估其遵照治療性方案中四個環節的程度。調查結果顯示:參加對葯物及腹膜透析的遵照程度，比限制膳食和流質食物的遵照程度為高。再者，男性、較年青、或進行了透析治療一至三年的參加者，自覺其遵照程度比其他參加者為低。此調查結果將指導第二期硏究的最大變化採樣，方法是跟據參加者自我報告其遵照治療性方案的程度分為跟從及不跟從兩組，硏究採用立意取樣方法去選取36位不同性別、年齡、及透析年歷的參加者作第二期硏究的面談。整合第一期的調查及第二期的面談結果後，硏究為參加者遵照治療性方案的模式提供了解釋。 / 結果顯示參加者的遵照模式乃是一個浮動過程，此過程可分為三個階段: 起初的遵照模式、隨後的遵照模式、及長期的遵照模式。在起初的遵照模式階段，參加者嘗試嚴謹地遵照各項治療性方案，但體會到這是不能持久的。在進行了透析二至六個月後，參加進入隨後的遵照模式，透過試驗、監察及不斷的調校，參加者學會選擇性地去遵照某些治療性方案。當參加者接受透析三至五年後，他們開始進入長期的遵照模式，在這階段，參加者已能將自行修改了的治療性方案融入日常的生活當中。 / 參加者遵照治療性方案的浮動過程，乃是受其「抱怨失去自主及常規」和「嘗試挽回自主及常規」所驅使。此浮動情況在每個階段都會發生。除了透析年歷，影響參加者遵照治療性方案的決定性因素乃是其家人及醫護專業人仕的支持。參加並認為醫護專業人仕非常強調其需絶對遵照所有治療性方案，反眏現行以治療為本的照料模式。 / 此硏究在理論及臨床上皆有貢獻。在理論方面，此乃首個硏究確立接受持續性家居腹膜透析的病人，在遵照治療性方案的浮動過程中出現的三個階段。在臨床上，此三個階段的確立可作為策劃護理方案的參照，以幫助病人順利過渡各個階段。硏究的結果亦倡導醫療模式的轉變，即由以治療作主導的模式轉變為以病人為本的照料模式，授權病人在末期腎衰竭的治療過程中參與自我料理。 / End-stage renal disease (ESRD) is a chronic, progressive and debilitating illness with renal replacement therapy (RRT) as the only treatment modality. In Hong Kong, patients newly diagnosed with ESRD who require RRT are generally started on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). Patients receiving CAPD are required to adhere to a renal therapeutic regimen comprising four components (dietary and fluid restrictions, and medication and dialysis prescriptions) to decelerate disease progression. Studies on patients' adherence have mainly focused on those undergoing haemodialysis and are generally from healthcare professionals' perspectives. The aim of this study was to understand and explain adherence from the perspectives of patients undergoing CAPD. / The study employed a mixed-methods design and was conducted in two phases. In phase I, a survey was conducted to examine 173 patients' self-reported adherence to the four components of the therapeutic regimen. Results showed that participants were more adherent to dialysis and medication prescriptions than to fluid and dietary restrictions. Moreover, participants who were male, younger or had received dialysis for 1 to 3 years rated themselves as more non-adherent than other participants. These findings guided the maximum variation sampling of 36 purposively recruited participants of different genders, ages, and duration of dialysis from the adherent and non-adherent groups for the phase II interview. The survey and interview data were merged in the interpretation of findings to provide an understanding of participants' adherence. / Findings indicate that participants' adherence was a dynamic process with three stages: initial adherence, subsequent adherence and long-term adherence. At the stage of initial adherence, participants attempted to follow instructions but found that strict persistent adherence was impossible. After the first 2 to 6 months of dialysis, participants entered the stage of subsequent adherence. Through experimenting, monitoring and making continuous adjustments, they learned to adopt selective adherence. The stage of long-term adherence commenced after participants had received dialysis for more than 3 to 5 years. At this stage, they were able to assimilate the modified therapeutic regimen into everyday life. / The dynamic process of adherence was driven by "grieving for the loss of autonomy and normality" and "attempting to regain autonomy and normality". The process was dynamic as there were fluctuations at each stage of the participants' adherence. In addition to the duration of dialysis, the major determinant influencing the participants' adherence was the support provided by family members and healthcare professionals. Moreover, participants perceived that the focus of care provision was on strict adherence to all components of the therapeutic regimen, reflecting a biomedical model of care. / This study has theoretical and clinical significance. Theoretically, this is the first study that identified three stages in the dynamic process of adherence among patients undergoing CAPD. Clinically, with reference to each stage identified, nursing interventions can be developed to help patients achieve a smooth transition throughout all the stages. The findings also call for a paradigm shift from the biomedical model of care to patient-centred care, so as to empower patients to engage in self-management of their ESRD. / Detailed summary in vernacular field only. / Detailed summary in vernacular field only. / Detailed summary in vernacular field only. / Detailed summary in vernacular field only. / Detailed summary in vernacular field only. / Lam, Lai Wah. / Thesis (Ph.D.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2012. / Includes bibliographical references. / Electronic reproduction. Hong Kong : Chinese University of Hong Kong, [2012] System requirements: Adobe Acrobat Reader. Available via World Wide Web. / Abstract also in Chinese; some appendixes also in Chinese. / LIST OF TABLES --- p.xv / LIST OF FIGURES --- p.xvi / LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS --- p.xvii / LIST OF APPENDICES --- p.xviii / Chapter CHAPTER ONE --- INTRODUCTION / Introduction --- p.1 / ESRD and its management in the Hong Kong context --- p.2 / The research problem --- p.3 / Aim of the study --- p.6 / Overview of the thesis --- p.6 / Chapter CHAPTER TWO --- LITERATURE REVIEW / Introduction --- p.7 / Literature search strategies --- p.7 / The concept of adherence --- p.8 / Theoretical models used to understand adherence --- p.14 / Health belief model --- p.14 / Locus of control --- p.16 / Self-efficacy --- p.19 / Transtheoretical model --- p.22 / Measurement of adherence --- p.24 / Prevalence of adherence --- p.27 / Patients undergoing HD --- p.28 / Patients undergoing PD --- p.31 / Factors influencing patients’ adherence --- p.34 / Demographic and clinical characteristics --- p.34 / Social support --- p.37 / Knowledge about adherence --- p.39 / Chinese culture --- p.43 / Exploring adherence from patients’ perspectives --- p.47 / Adherence among patients undergoing dialysis in Hong Kong --- p.51 / An introduction to the concept of self-management --- p.52 / Summary --- p.53 / Chapter CHAPTER THREE --- METHODOLOGY / Introduction --- p.56 / Aim --- p.56 / Objectives --- p.56 / Operational definitions --- p.57 / Research design --- p.57 / The paradigm of mixed methods research --- p.58 / Justification for using a mixed methods design --- p.60 / Application of the mixed methods design --- p.61 / Phase I study --- p.67 / Sampling --- p.67 / Setting --- p.67 / Sampling method and sample size --- p.67 / Data collection method --- p.68 / Instrument --- p.68 / Data collection procedures --- p.70 / Data analysis --- p.70 / Pilot Study --- p.71 / Validity and reliability --- p.72 / Phase II study --- p.74 / Sampling --- p.74 / Sample size --- p.74 / Sampling method --- p.75 / Data collection method --- p.80 / Semi-structured interview --- p.80 / Development of the interview guide --- p.81 / Data collection procedures --- p.82 / Making contact with participants --- p.82 / The interviewing process --- p.83 / Data analysis --- p.87 / Pilot study --- p.89 / Rigour of the study --- p.91 / Credibility --- p.91 / Dependability --- p.95 / Confirmability --- p.95 / Transferability --- p.95 / Ethical considerations --- p.96 / Summary --- p.98 / Chapter CHAPTER FOUR --- FINDINGS OF THE PHASE I STUDY / Introduction --- p.99 / Results --- p.99 / Participants --- p.99 / Demographic and clinical characteristics of the participants --- p.100 / Overall adherence to the therapeutic regimen --- p.103 / Number of days non-adherent to the therapeutic regimen --- p.103 / Degree of deviation from the therapeutic regimen --- p.104 / Adherence in relation to demographic and clinical variables --- p.106 / Summary --- p.109 / Chapter CHAPTER FIVE --- FINDINGS OF THE PHASE II STUDY / Introduction --- p.110 / Demographic and clinical characteristics of the participants --- p.110 / Major categories and subcategories identified --- p.115 / Perceptions of adherence --- p.117 / Meaning of adherence --- p.117 / Perceived needs to adhere --- p.118 / Perceived levels of adherence --- p.120 / The process of adherence --- p.123 / Initial adherence --- p.124 / Practising two major types of adherence --- p.124 / Striving to live with strict adherence --- p.124 / Doing what I am told --- p.124 / Trying my best --- p.125 / Exercising self-control --- p.127 / Adopting partial adherence --- p.128 / Recognizing limitations of current types of adherence --- p.129 / Sacrificing freedom for strict adherence --- p.129 / Social restriction --- p.129 / Having nothing to eat --- p.132 / Paying the price of inadequate adherence --- p.133 / Physiological complications --- p.134 / Need for additional treatment --- p.136 / Harsh comments from healthcare professionals --- p.137 / Realizing the need for changes in adherence --- p.139 / Rationalising an easy-going approach to adherence --- p.139 / Seeing the need for stricter adherence --- p.144 / Subsequent adherence --- p.146 / Experimenting with an easy-going approach to adherence --- p.147 / Allowing some slippage --- p.147 / Monitoring indicators of adherence --- p.148 / Making continuous adjustments --- p.149 / Adopting selective adherence --- p.153 / Long-term adherence --- p.158 / Factors influencing the process of living with adherence --- p.159 / Support --- p.159 / Family members --- p.159 / Healthcare professionals --- p.163 / Hope for the future --- p.165 / Situational factors --- p.168 / Dinning out --- p.169 / Employment --- p.171 / Summary --- p.173 / Chapter CHAPTER SIX --- DISCUSSION / Introduction --- p.177 / The dynamic process of adherence --- p.179 / Initial adherence --- p.182 / Following instructions --- p.182 / Grieving for the loss of autonomy and normality --- p.184 / Social restriction --- p.185 / Unmet nutritional and psychosocial needs --- p.187 / Subsequent adherence --- p.193 / Experimenting with an easy-going approach to adherence --- p.193 / Attempting to regain autonomy and normality --- p.198 / Dialysis --- p.199 / Medication --- p.201 / Fluid --- p.204 / Diet --- p.205 / Long-term adherence --- p.209 / Support as a major determinant of adherence --- p.212 / Family --- p.213 / Healthcare professionals --- p.216 / Biomedical model of care --- p.221 / Disease-oriented perspective --- p.222 / One-way paternalistic communication --- p.228 / Summary --- p.232 / Chapter CHAPTER SEVEN --- CONCLUSIONS / Introduction --- p.235 / Limitations of the study --- p.235 / Implications --- p.237 / Implications for clinical practice --- p.237 / Initial stage --- p.237 / Provision of timely appropriate support --- p.238 / Psychological support --- p.238 / On-site support --- p.239 / Adjustment of the CAPD training content --- p.240 / Empowering patients for self-management of their ESRD --- p.241 / Subsequent stage --- p.244 / Long-term stage --- p.245 / Implications for administration --- p.246 / Implications for nursing education --- p.247 / Recommendations for further research --- p.249 / Conclusions --- p.252 / REFERENCES --- p.254

Finally, the effects of external physical factors, such as temperature and contact force, on BP estimation based on m-NHA, were discussed and verified by experiments. Especially, a computational efficient algorithm was developed based on an optical model for motion resistant BP estimation, as well as the estimation of blood oxygen saturation (SaO2). We first developed an optical model with motion effect based on the photon-diffusion analysis, instead of the Beer-Lambert's law, which generally describes the light absorption but fails to account for light scattering in tissue. Based on the optical model, a novel motion resistant algorithm, minimum correlation discreet saturation transform (MCDST), was proposed for the estimation of arterial BP and SaO 2 as well. The novel algorithm is based on the time and time-delayed independence of the "true" signal and motion noise by use of dual PPGs (pulse oximeter). Experimental results indicate that MCDST has a comparable performance in SaO2 estimation and m-NHA calculation, as compared to another clinically verified motion-resistant algorithm---discreet saturation transform (DST). Most importantly, MCDST is much more computationally efficient than DST, because the former only uses simple linear algebra, while the latter uses the adaptive filter. It indicates that MCDST can reduce the required power consumption and circuit complexity of the implementation. It is vitally important for wearable devices, where the small physical size and long battery life are crucial. / First of all, a modified left-ventricle (LV) arterial coupling model was developed by incorporating a nonlinear pressure dependent compliance and two resistances for valve stenosis. A modified LV-arterial coupling model with pressure dependent compliance and taking into account the hypertensives with valve stenosis is quite necessary for proper description of the BP regulation for hypertensives with mitral and/or aortic stenosis, as well as normal people. / Hypertension is the most common cardiovascular disease and is a major public health problem in both developed and developing countries. As hypertension is often asymptomatic, continuous monitoring of blood pressure (BP) for the initiate treatment before the onset of organ damage is of vital importance for home healthcare. However, most of current BP meters, such as sphygmomanometer, are not suitable for the targeted applications because they provide only intermittent blood pressure readings and may cause circulatory interference with the usage of cuff. Moreover, they are not applicable in mobile environment due to the bulky design and the lack of efficient motion resistant algorithms. The objective of this research is to propose a motion resistant method for noninvasive and continuous BP measurement using dual photoplethysmograms (PPG), which could be potentially embedded in the portable or wearable devices for long term BP monitoring. / In summary, the research in this thesis not only covers the fundamental work, such as the modification of heart-arterial system coupling model and the proposal of a novel signal processing method MCDST, but also includes the practical techniques for the estimation of arterial BP as well as oxygen saturation. Expectations for further studies are suggested at the end of this thesis. / Secondly, based on the modified model, a novel parameter, normalized harmonic area (NHA), was proposed for BP estimation by quantifying the frequency distribution in the simulated aortic pressure waveforms. The excellent relationship between NHA and BP was verified by the simulation results. To establish a measurable parameter corresponding to NHA, PPG is investigated because it is widely used for the peripheral circulation monitoring and can be easily obtained at any location on the skin surface. Based on the assumption of quadratic transfer function from aortic pressure to PPG at fingertip, the discreet period transform (DPT) was applied on PPG signal to produce a modified NHA (m-NHA) for BP estimation. For the clinical tests on 85 subjects, the difference between the estimated and the measured blood pressure by m-NHA is 0.97+/-7.9mmHg for systolic blood pressure (SBP) and 0.40+/-4.5mmHg for diastolic blood pressure (DBP), respectively. This result is as good as that (0.73+/-7.6mmHg for SBP, and 0.40+/-4.5mmHg for DBP) from the widely reported pulse transit time (PTT) approach. / Yan Yongsheng. / "November 2005." / Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 67-11, Section: B, page: 6561. / Thesis (Ph.D.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2005. / Includes bibliographical references. / Electronic reproduction. Hong Kong : Chinese University of Hong Kong, [2012] System requirements: Adobe Acrobat Reader. Available via World Wide Web. / Electronic reproduction. [Ann Arbor, MI] : ProQuest Information and Learning, [200-] System requirements: Adobe Acrobat Reader. Available via World Wide Web. / Abstracts in English and Chinese. / School code: 1307.

INTRODUÇÃO: A neutropenia febril (NF) é uma complicação freqüente e potencialmente fatal no manejo do paciente onco-hematológico. Estudos recentes demonstram que a NF consiste em um grupo heterogêneo de pacientes com riscos variados. Nosso objetivo foi avaliar a taxa de falência ao tratamento de primeira linha, taxa de internação e óbito. Além disso, estudamos as variáveis clínico-laboratoriais em relação aos desfechos, a validação do índice Multinational Association for Supportive Care of Cancer (MASCC) modificado e a taxa de positividade de hemocultura e urocultura, como também o perfil de sensibilidade ao cefepima. CASUÍSTICA E METODOLOGIA: Estudo retrospectivo unicêntrico. Os dados foram obtidos através dos prontuários do Hospital-Dia no período de Julho de 2001 a Junho de 2006. Foram avaliados eventos com NF tratados com cefepima 2g (2x/dia), associado ou não, a teicoplamina 400mg/dia. RESULTADOS: Em 128 pacientes, estudamos 178 eventos de NF. A taxa de falência ao tratamento de primeira linha foi de 36,5%, taxa de internação 20,7% e óbito em 6,2% entre os eventos de NF. Na análise multivariada do estudo das categorias clínico-laboratoriais e dos desfechos encontramos como dados significantes em relação ao risco da falência ao tratamento de primeira linha: Idade < 60 anos (OR: 2,11 IC95%: 1,71-2,51, p = 0,004) e creatinina sérica > 1,2mg/dL (OR: 7,19, IC95%: 1,81 30,71 p= 0,005). Os dados significantes para o risco de internação foram: Ausência do diagnóstico de Linfoma não - Hodgkin (OR: 2,42 IC95%: 2,04 2,8, p= 0,011) Tabagismo (OR: 3,14, IC95% 1,14 8,66, p=0,027) e creatinina sérica > 1,2mg/dL (OR: 7,97, IC95% 21,19 - 28,95, p=0,002). Em relação ao óbito, o único dado de risco significante foi a saturação de oxigênio < 95% (OR: 5,8, IC95% 1,50 - 22,56, p = 0,011). Em relação ao índice MASCC modificado e seu impacto sobre os desfechos obtivemos os seguintes resultados: Falência do tratamento de primeira linha e (baixo risco versus alto risco): 35,2% x 53,8%, p=0,232; Internação (baixo risco versus alto risco): 18,2% x 53,8%, p = 0,006; óbito (baixo risco versus alto risco): 4,3% x 30,8%, p=0,004. As taxas de hemocultura e urocultura positivas foram respectivamente: 13% e 8%. O agente isolado mais freqüente nos dois exames foi Eschericia coli. Em relação ao perfil de sensibilidade dos agentes isolados e testados, 100% foram sensíveis ao cefepima. CONCLUSÕES: Os eventos de NF em tratamento ambulatorial apresentaram taxas satisfatórias em relação aos desfechos. Os dados sugerem que os riscos como: Ausência de Linfoma não - Hodgkin, tabagismo, creatinina sérica > 1,2mg/dL e oximetria de pulso < 95% merecem ser considerados como fatores de riscos para desfechos indesejáveis. O índice MASCC modificado mostrou-se eficaz para classificar os eventos classificados como alto risco na nossa população. Em relação aos agentes isolados e testados, 100% são sensíveis ao antibiótico de primeira linha cefepima. / BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Febrile Neutropenia (FN) is a frequent adverse event and potentially lethal in patients with haematologic malignancies. Nowadays, FN represents a heterogeneous group with different risk for serious complications and death. We studied the first line antibiotic failure, hospitalization rate and death. In addition, it was compared clinical and laboratory data with outcomes, validation of the usefulness of Modified Multinational Association for Supportive Care of Cancer (MASCC) and blood culture and urine culture rate identification. DESIGN AND METHODS: We elaborated a retrospective study. It was evaluated patients with haematologic malignancies who were treated with Cefepime 2g intravenous (IV) twice a day, with or without Teicoplanin 400mg (IV) once a day. RESULTS: Of the 178 FN events, it was observed: first line antibiotic failure 36,5%, hospitalization rate 20,7% and deaths 6,2%. In multivariate analyses, it was evidenced with risk to first line antibiotic failure: Age < 60 years (OR: 2,11, CI95%: 1,71-2,51, p =0,004), serum creatinine > 1,2mg/mL (OR: 7,19, CI95%: 1,81 30,71 p= 0,005). In hospitalization the risks were: Without diagnosis of Non- Hodgkin Lymphoma (OR: 2,42, CI95%: 2,04 2,8, p= 0,011), smoking (OR: 3,14, CI95% 1,14 8,66, p=0,027), serum creatinine > 1,2mg/dL (OR: 7,97, CI95%21,19- 28,95, p=0,002). Relating to death, the risk was transcutaneous oximetry < 95% (OR: 5.8, CI95%: 1.50 22.56, p = 0.011). Analyzing MASCC index, 165 events were classified as low-risk and 13 as high-risk. Outpatient treatment failures were reported in connection with 7 (53.8%) high-risk episodes and 30 (18.2%) low-risk, p=0.006. In addition, death in 7 (4.2%) low-risk and 4 (30.8%) high-risk events, p=0.004. Microbiological infection documented was identified in 13% and 8% in blood cultures and urine cultures, respectively. The most common agent isolated was E. coli and 100% were sensitive to cefepime. INTERPRETATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS: The outpatient treatment with intravenous antibiotic was satisfactory. The risks: Haematologic malignancies other than Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, smoking, serum creatinine elevated and oximetry < 95% should be considered in FN evaluation. It was validated MASCC index in the Brazilian population. Relating to microbiological agents studied 100% were not resistant for cefepime.