This study was designed to answer the following research questions: "Are those at risk for coronary heart disease being screened for high blood cholesterol?" and "Are those with high blood cholesterol being treated according to the national guidelines?" The importance of early detection and treatment of high blood cholesterol is vital for preventive health care. A chart review of patient records was conducted to determine the behavior of the family practice residents. From the analysis of data it was determined that the residents screened their patients 83.0% of the time and when compared with national guidelines, treated those patients identified with high blood cholesterol 52.8% of the time. Third year residents screened their patients more (88.7%) for blood cholesterol than first (82.1%) or second (74.7%) year residents. Male residents screened a higher percent of their patients (84.8%) than female residents (75.0%). / Department of Physiology and Health Science

The purpose of this descriptive study was to document and analyze the perceptions of family caregivers of non-institutionalized Alzheimer's patients about the benefits and limitations of Alzheimer's support groups. Survey methodology was used to survey caregivers and support group leaders from eight Alzheimer's support groups in the central Indiana area. Several of the major findings challenge the literature. These findings are as follows: The majority of caregivers attended the support group to receive information. None of the caregivers attended the support group due to frustration, and only one caregiver responded that relieving frustration was a benefit of participating in the support group. A majority of caregivers and support group leaders were positive about mixed (spouses and adult children) support groups. A majority of caregivers responded that they did not have guilt, anger, fears about caregiving in the future, or stress concerning their caregiving responsibilities. The study generated several implications that can be used by planners to improve support groups. / Department of Educational Leadership