Healthcare and Nursing – Social Justice in Healthcare Distribution

1. Introduction

In many different contexts, self-righteousness seems evident on the part of those who critique the poor or make generalizations about them. One does not have to look far to see, for example, people elaborating about the “lazy poor” who are a “parasitic drain on the hard-working class.” Self-righteousness is defined as being smugly superior in one’s own self, and out of the three forms of self-righteousness to be mentioned in this paper, this definition will refer to all. Rather employed or not, the U.S. Census Bureau has consistently estimated that at least “37 million Americans are currently living below the poverty line” as measured by the standard of low-income in the United States. I feel confident in saying that those who critique the poor as such do not have to deal with the ups and downs that poverty gives. It is also fair to say that such people probably do not understand how complex poverty is and how it affects the human mind and spirit in so many life-altering ways. I decided to make poverty the focus of my paper because I learned through AP English 11 in my senior year that this is a critically complex social issue in which how it manifests differs across the United States. Also, many stratification systems are influenced by poverty because it is so widespread throughout the world, and so as a global pandemic, no nation should consider themselves safe from how poverty is or can be worsened on a large scale. As a future member in the world of work and business, understanding the complexity of social stratification and the various systems in which human life is disenfranchised – such as the system of poverty or the issues surrounding access to human and public services such as proper education or healthcare – is instrumental to contributing effectively towards the well-being of society as a whole. My paper will, I hope, portray why self-righteousness regarding the poor is erroneous, but also illustrate that such attitudes are born out of an oversimplification of poverty in the United States.

1.1. Definition of Social Justice

Social justice, in the context of practical ethics, is a concept based on the idea that every person has an equal right to the same treatment and condition in life. Ideally, all individuals should have equal social, political, and economic opportunities. Therefore, the rights of an individual should not be violated based on the class, gender, race, and sexuality. Social justice is expansive and includes a wide array of things from a just society and economy. Social justice is also a concept that certain privileges are unfair. These privileges not only benefit this person or persons but also are a barrier to the rights in which every person should have. There are two ways in which we can understand the concept of social justice. The first is individual rights and the second is good of the community. Individual rights are morally justifiable in which all individuals within a society are benefited in most of the cases. When the rights of different individuals undermine others, for example wealthy people have more opportunities in a society than those who are less fortunate, this would be seen as an unfair privilege and therefore an unfair social justice. Next, common good, this is the understanding that as a society, everyone should have a right to a rich and fulfilling life. It is generally assumed that the benefits of equality and social justice are a better citizen. When groups such as children, elderly, disabled and people of that nature are excluded from the common good it is referred to as social injustice. Social justice means that we, as a society, must provide certain things; such as health care, social security, and education to all. It is most commonly expressed through civil rights. This is a fairly drastic approach and often changing the institution that is enforcing the injustices. Often, the lack of civil liberties is caused by overlap between the various forms of social injustices. In the work “Social Justice: A Case for Marriage Equality,” it is argued that the state must recognize same-sex marriage because doing so is a matter of fundamental civil rights. It makes the case that state discriminations prohibits gays and lesbians from carrying out the common and often cherished human right of formalizing their relationships as heterosexuals can. It is in the denial of this liberty of one to most cherished rights that the injustice exists.

1.2. Importance of Social Justice in Healthcare

Social justice in healthcare is of great importance, especially when the government provides for the health of its entire population. According to the Institute of Medicine, if the society is to move forward, then every individual in the population must have access to adequate and quality healthcare services. The United States has been providing healthcare services to the people such as immigrants and veterans, but there is still a wide gap in terms of who should get the services. Researchers have found out that most of the social injustices in healthcare are brought about by the difference in healthcare management and neglect between places in the same city. People living in places that are naturally endowed with better resources tend to receive better healthcare quality compared to those living in poorer environmental conditions. To exacerbate this, the poorer individuals in the less endowed areas are either underinsured or uninsured and cannot have access to good healthcare as dictated in the National Standards for Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services. This trend affects the society as a whole because the sick people in those areas cannot work effectively, hence the national income is affected. The political left supports national uniform healthcare and many theories and articles have been published in favor of equality in health maintenance which result in a thesis and academic writing for students in healthcare. In solidarity with the Catholics Bishops 1993, it is fair to state that the “most important” right of them all is the right to life. Every “right” to education, healthcare, or any other area is a right only if it is based on the inalienable right to life from the moment of conception to natural death. This can justify the importance of social justice and equality in healthcare. Its main aim and purpose are the physical and emotional well-being of the individuals. Governor Arnold declares that the health of society is measured by the quality of life of its most vulnerable members and healthcare is a top priority of government and it is essential to the life and health of a person. He is so much convinced with the belief that social justice in healthcare is vital. He looks at life as a gift from God and it is the duty, and responsibility to protect that “God given” gift. He perceives social justice and all sort of health policies are aimed at addressing various social and economic disparities. Chrétien et al 2007 accused the government for political misuse of the term the life and privacy of patients were often violated and terms of life could be interpreted arbitrarily. There was no guarantee that fair and equal treatment is given based but not because of the financial or social status of an individual and this can reflect the importance of the ethical leadership and the promoting a culture of integrity by the government. Lastly, implementing just in time inventory may actually reduce the waiting time for healthcare services. This is the best way compared to previously used by the hospitals using the behavior and consumption of patients to evaluate patient needs and the number of healthcare services to be provided. Placing the burden of healthcare financial and social success on the patients would not solve the problem of social justice. Patients may not have time to wait until the advance stages of illness, in order to get the treatment provided for rather their life could be posed in danger. Also it could not give equal differential value on life and may be seen as people in certain age or worth of life are to be given more immediate attention. On the hand, patients would not overuse healthcare services as it will be provided at the exactly right personal time and will help to alleviate the pressure on healthcare providers. Such a method allows all patients to receive equal healthcare accessibility because all control is shifted to healthcare providers to anticipate and fulfill healthcare needs.

2. Historical Perspective

2.1. Evolution of Healthcare Distribution

2.2. Challenges Faced in Ensuring Social Justice

3. Ethical Considerations

3.1. Principles of Social Justice in Healthcare

3.2. Ethical Dilemmas in Healthcare Distribution

4. Impact on Vulnerable Populations

4.1. Disparities in Access to Healthcare

4.2. Effects on Underprivileged Communities

5. Policy and Legislation

5.1. Government Initiatives for Healthcare Equity

5.2. Legal Frameworks Addressing Social Justice

6. Healthcare Professionals’ Role

6.1. Advocacy for Social Justice in Healthcare

6.2. Training and Education for Healthcare Providers

7. Strategies for Improvement

7.1. Community Outreach Programs

7.2. Collaborations with Non-Profit Organizations

7.3. Research and Data Analysis for Informed Decision Making

8. Case Studies

8.1. Successful Models of Social Justice in Healthcare Distribution

8.2. Lessons Learned from Failed Attempts

9. Future Directions

9.1. Innovations in Healthcare Delivery for Social Justice

9.2. Potential Challenges and Solutions

Healthcare Policy: Impact on Nurses’ Working Conditions and Scope of Practice

1. Introduction

This article explores the impact of healthcare policies on nurses’ working conditions and scope of practice. It highlights the importance of healthcare policies and nurses’ working conditions in providing quality healthcare. The influence of healthcare policies on working conditions is discussed, including staffing ratios, workload, and occupational health and safety guidelines. The impact of healthcare policies on the scope of practice for nurses is also examined, including regulatory frameworks, legal and ethical considerations, and collaborative practice. The article suggests policy initiatives to improve working conditions, such as safe staffing standards and promoting a healthy work environment. It also explores strategies to expand nurses’ scope of practice, such as policy changes to allow advanced practice roles and legislative support. Challenges and barriers in policy implementation, such as resistance to change and financial constraints, are identified. The article concludes with future directions and recommendations, including innovations in healthcare policy, strengthening advocacy efforts, and collaboration between policymakers and nursing associations. As these policies and nurses’ work situations evolve, it is still critically important to keep focus on illuminating more empirical-based knowledge, integrating research results into policy making and providing a positive trajectory that can enhance both the quality of healthcare and working lives for nurses. Interdisciplinary exchanges between nursing, health professions, sociology, psychology, public health and public policy, both in broad senses and in specific research projects, are a welcome and necessary step to realize the goals to promote a more vital and healthy nursing workforce and ultimately to contribute for improving healthcare systems. These interdisciplinary approaches especially resonate with policy research, as nursing associations and scholar researchers may work together so that innovative proposals may be generated. This article has focused on how healthcare policy has and continues to influence various aspects of nurses’ occupational life. Key issues of workload, working environments and scope of development have been addressed. However, it is not a comprehensive study of all the impacts of healthcare policy on nurses. While the majority of studies consider policy as a method of assessing nurses’ performance, this article took a broader view and used policy as an independent variable of investigating conditions of nursing work. With comparisons between United Kingdom and other parts of the world, the article has provided readers with an overall analysis of problems and directions that researchers and nurses are facing today. Also, recommendations have been made on potential future development of different aspects and implications. Future research should include more long-time studies to show how successful those changes in policy. More empirical-based evidences are needed to further validate and consolidate current findings.

1.1 Importance of healthcare policies

By pursuing a progressive healthcare policy, a more personal and comprehensive patient care system will be established. The article acknowledges that the impact of healthcare policies on healthcare providers such as doctors and nurses is an important area to concentrate on. The influence on different healthcare stakeholders needs to be researched, articulated, and communicated. Such knowledge and understanding would be much helpful for healthcare professionals to reform their practices and work dynamically and innovatively in different healthcare settings under different healthcare policies.Such a comprehensive health system will focus on holistic care and incorporate different treatment options for patient conditions. This means that nurses will be responsible for providing precise and proper care based on an individualized treatment plan. Ensuring that the patient receives the necessary care and understands their specific health needs can be vital in preventing the worsening of current healthcare conditions. And such positions will be available to nurses at different levels of experience and education. This provides many opportunities for career advancement in the field of nursing. Most importantly, it gives more chances for nurses to work in a variety of dynamic and innovative clinical settings.By forming an integrated health system under healthcare policies, patient-centered medical homes that include comprehensive physician-led healthcare and primary care case management can be established to improve the coordination and quality of care for patients. Nurses and other healthcare professionals receive payment incentives focusing on the quality of care, not the volume of patients seen. Such a system encourages the team approach to their care; each person in the group will be able to see how everyone else is working to give comprehensive patient care. This differs from a physician-centered health system where it is based primarily on one provider and leaves the patient with little to no say in their care. This will allow nurses and other healthcare professionals to have more authority and to develop innovative practices to make healthcare efficient and effective for patients.Under healthcare reform legislation passed in 2010, the entire healthcare system is shifting its focus. Emphasis will fall on prevention, increasing the availability and affordability of healthcare services, and the modernization of the United States healthcare system. Under this healthcare reform, nurses will have the opportunity to take on many new responsibilities that will change the way they give care. Nurses will be charged with being more involved in the care of individuals. This is a much more personal way of giving care to people and means that every individual will be evaluated on their own and not just diagnosed by their conditions.Healthcare policies play a critical role in the United States’ healthcare system. They serve as a framework for healthcare organizations to ensure that the clinical and business operations are in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The United States is different from other countries because it does not have a standard health system but rather a variety of healthcare policies. Such policies range from insurance and payment policies to federal and state policies. Under different healthcare policies, a different number of cultural indicators, including effectiveness, quality, efficiency, and equity, are used to measure the respective policy and health system performance.

1.2 Significance of nurses’ working conditions

Nurses’ working conditions have a significant impact on the quality of nursing care and patient outcomes. Patient safety and the well-being of nurses depend on the working environment and the organizational characteristics. Therefore, when many experts and professional associations talk about quality of care, they would point out that nursing, the essential element of patient care, has a strong relationship with the quality of care. And the status of working condition has been addressed vigorously as one of the most important factors to determine the retention of nurses and patient safety. In the existing studies, it was found that 30% of hospital staff nurses received patient care assignments exceeding their level of education and clinical expertise. It is not only heightening the potential for medical error, but also has the effect of increased nursing burnout, higher turnover rate, and put the general patient safety in jeopardy. Therefore, the political motivation behind work redesign in health care, including proposals for changing skill mix, extends beyond improving technical and allocative efficiency. The importance of nurses’ working conditions has been recognized also in the political arena. The parliament debate and research topic analyzed and focused on the improvement of nursing workforce, including the issues of pay, training, career structures and flexibility around personal life, therefore, the agenda to modernize the nursing workforce appeared. Through enhancing the healthcare policies today, experts believe that a radical approach of modernizing the nursing workforce should involve the improvement of working conditions for nurses. Also the nursing professionals have to tweak the interests and the freedoms that can be designed in their everyday working practices, particularly with an eye toward improving the quality of patient care given the significance and standing of nursing work. The better working conditions not only help to improve the quality of care patients received, but also nursing workforce could be maintained as well. The general public and media commonly associate the poor working environments for nurses with many clinical turbulence and accidents in hospital, such as MRSA, overcrowdedness and long waiting list. In addition, the morale of nurses in generally are heavily influenced by the working conditions, patient care environment and the autonomy over their own practice. The deteriorated working conditions, the increasing litigation against health care providers and the temptation for nurses to strike can be seen. Ergonomists, government agencies, and equipment manufacturers alike are now paying more attention to potential reducing nursing injuries and promoting safe working environment. Creating an ergonomically working environment, which tailor the nurse working conditions and daily practice, could heighten nurses’ morale and enhance the patients’ care. It is mentioned that good work stations, comfortable design of the facilities and a supportive management can help present nursing staff to maximize their patient care time while minimize the chance to be injured at work. The significance of better working conditions towards the provision of quality care does not end on the loci of nurses and their daily practices; it makes a difference in the patients’ health and well-being as well. It also enhances and promotes the job satisfaction among nurses where these may fulfill their life seen as having significance and worthwhile.

1.3 Scope of practice for nurses

In terms of nurses, the new act has allowed nurses to become ‘independent prescribers’ and ‘supplementary prescribers’ and to prescribe almost any drug for any condition. This has greatly expanded nurses’ scope of practice in terms of drug therapies. Also, it gave nurses a chance to develop their roles and made services more accessible. On top of that, the new act is encouraging more nurses to take further training in prescribing, which can really help patients and make better use of nurses’ skills. As a result, we can see that healthcare policy can actually change nurses’ scope of practice and always impacts on it. Also, the range of activities that a nurse is permitted to undertake is based on relevant training and experiences. The nurse’s scope of practice may have different variations depending on the levels of seniority and specialisms.In a healthcare system, changes are often being made to improve it. Therefore, the scope of practice for nurses is constantly changing because the government and the NMC are always reviewing patients’ care, research evidence, the roles of the health professional, and the healthcare policy. As a matter of fact, healthcare policy has a significant impact on nurses’ scope of practice. For example, the Health and Social Care Act 2012, which was passed in the UK parliament, has changed the way that services were provided. It gave health services and professionals new responsibilities and new challenges in both providing effective patient care and protecting the safety and well-being of patients.The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) is a regulatory body that maintains a register of nurses and midwives who meet set standards of training, professional skills, and behavior. Every nurse would need to follow the guidelines set by NMC. NMC also marks the nurse or midwife that has fit the practice standard. However, nurses’ scope of practice in the UK is defined by the UKCC/GCN standards for records and record-keeping, which means that if they are not under this regulation, they cannot deliver record-keeping practices. In this way, nurses are required to keep accurate records of their work.Nursing is the largest profession in the National Health Service (NHS) and nurses are also the people who use the most NHS services. Nurses and midwives make up the highest proportion of the health service workforce. The NHS could not function without them. They are valued for their care, compassion, and technical knowledge. In recent years, nurses have been given extra roles and more responsibilities. This shows their roles, for example, ‘nurse prescribers’. They have some right to prescribe some medicines just like a doctor.

2. Influence of Healthcare Policies on Working Conditions

2.1 Staffing ratios and nurse-patient ratios

2.2 Workload and job demands

2.3 Occupational health and safety guidelines

3. Impact of Healthcare Policies on Scope of Practice

3.1 Regulatory framework for nursing practice

3.2 Legal and ethical considerations

3.3 Collaborative practice and interprofessional relationships

4. Policy Initiatives to Improve Working Conditions

4.1 Implementation of safe staffing standards

4.2 Enhancing work-life balance for nurses

4.3 Promoting a healthy work environment

5. Strategies to Expand Nurses’ Scope of Practice

5.1 Policy changes to allow advanced practice roles

5.2 Legislative support for expanded responsibilities

5.3 Continuing education and professional development opportunities

6. Challenges and Barriers in Policy Implementation

6.1 Resistance to change from healthcare organizations

6.2 Financial constraints and resource allocation

6.3 Addressing cultural and societal perceptions

7. Future Directions and Recommendations

7.1 Innovations in healthcare policy for nurses

7.2 Strengthening advocacy efforts

7.3 Collaboration between policymakers and nursing associations

8. Conclusion

Ebola: Safely Managing Patients Infected with Highly Contagious Diseases

1. Introduction

Highly contagious diseases with epidemic potential require a coordinated, continuous response that involves all levels of government and partners internationally. Nurses working in different phases of an outbreak need to be knowledgeable, flexible, and prepared to adapt to ever-changing situations. Continuing education and training, along with comprehensive preparedness and readiness plans, are essential to protect both healthcare workers and the public. However, ongoing and continuous education and preparedness for Ebola and other highly contagious diseases are challenges that the healthcare system and nursing profession currently face.Highly contagious diseases like Ebola present unique challenges to nurses in the healthcare setting, as both the patients and healthcare workers are at risk of infection. Nurses, especially those who work in critical care units and emergency departments, play a key role in identifying, managing, and preventing the spread of Ebola. Successful containment of outbreaks and prevention of further transmission depend on early diagnosis, isolation of infected patients, appropriate infection control practices, and the use of personal protective equipment.Ebola is a rare and deadly disease caused by infection with one of the Ebola virus strains. It was first discovered near the Ebola River in 1976 in what is now the Democratic Republic of Congo. Since then, outbreaks have appeared sporadically in Africa. The 2014-2016 outbreak in West Africa was the largest Ebola outbreak since the virus was first discovered, with multiple countries affected. The outbreak was associated with more than 28,000 cases and over 11,000 deaths. Twelve cases of Ebola have been reported in the United States to date, with two of those being transmissions within the healthcare setting.The world has experienced several infectious disease outbreaks in the past, such as the Spanish flu in 1918, the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in 2003, the H1N1 influenza in 2009, and the Ebola outbreak in West Africa in 2014-2016. Safely managing patients infected with highly contagious diseases is of utmost importance to prevent the spread of infection within the healthcare facility and the community. This is especially crucial given the global nature of healthcare and the ease and frequency of international travel today.

1.1. Importance of Safely Managing Highly Contagious Diseases

First and foremost, safely managing highly contagious diseases like Ebola is important to minimize the risk of transmission, both for healthcare workers and other patients in the healthcare setting. Ebola is caused by infection with a virus of the family Filoviridae, genus Ebolavirus. The Ebola virus is a member of a family of RNA viruses known as Filoviridae. These viruses exist as parasites of several organisms, including humans, and cause a number of hemorrhagic fevers. The Ebola virus is named after the Ebola River in the Democratic Republic of Congo (formerly Zaire), where one of the first recorded outbreaks occurred. Since then, there have been numerous outbreaks of Ebola in Africa. The first documented human case of Ebola virus was in 1976, and since that time, the virus has been a health threat in Africa. The natural reservoir host of the Ebola virus is not confirmed, but scientists believe that the virus is animal-borne and that bats are the most likely reservoir. In general, highly contagious diseases have the potential to cause sudden, widespread illness and death, and they can also cause a high degree of public fear and social disruption. Therefore, it is essential that there is a coordinated and well thought out plan for managing such diseases effectively. Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), for example, led to considerable disruption to international air travel and business in 2003, and had serious economic implications for affected countries. Even more seriously, the “Black Death,” now known to be caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, killed an estimated 25 million people in Europe between 1347 and 1351 and had far-reaching social and economic effects. Highly contagious diseases like Ebola are transmitted through contact with blood or body fluids of a person who is sick with or has died from Ebola, or through exposure to contaminated objects, such as needles. Some highly contagious diseases may be airborne, transmitting through particles of moisture that are coughed or sneezed into the air. It is also possible for some diseases to be transmitted through the water or food supplies. Therefore, taking appropriate measures for safely managing such patients with highly contagious diseases is vital. Such measures help to control the spread of these diseases and minimize the risk of infections to both patients and healthcare workers. In addition, having appropriate procedures for managing patients with highly contagious diseases in place can give assurance to healthcare workers, who are the first line of response, and also avoid unnecessary panic among the public. Sudden outbreaks of highly contagious diseases can cause substantial stress and worry. People may worry about catching the disease for themselves or for their loved ones, what treatments are available or what will happen to their jobs or businesses. By having good plans in place for managing patients with highly contagious diseases and by effectively and appropriately implementing those plans, public fear and social disruption can be minimized.

1.2. Overview of Ebola Virus

The first symptoms of Ebola infection are very similar to those of many other infections, such as fever, muscle pain, headache, and sore throat. These early nonspecific symptoms, along with adequate knowledge of the transmission pathway, are believed to be important in the recognition and containment of potential outbreaks. These symptoms, however, are eventually overpowered by the later signs of severe damage to the vascular system, such as widespread bruising, bloody feces, vomiting blood, and spontaneous bleeding from various orifices. If the patient makes it past this critical stage and has a robust immune system, they can recover from the virus. Long-term complications of Ebola infection may include joint pain, muscle pain, and fatigue. However, the survival rate depends on the exact strain of Ebola virus and medical care. For some outbreaks, live rates have varied from 25% to 90%.The Ebola virus primarily targets the immune system and vascular system in the human body. After initial contact and entry into the body, the virus first invades local macrophages and dendritic cells, then travels within infected cells through the lymphatic system. The virus ultimately disrupts the vascular system and induces abnormal blood clotting, which can lead to a variety of bleeding disorders. In fact, it is the multifaceted damage to the vascular system which ultimately results in the severe and often fatal hemorrhagic fever that has made Ebola virus infections notorious. The cellular response to Ebola infection, known as “cytokine storm,” greatly enhances inflammation and vascular permeability, further adding to the lethal nature of the virus.The Ebola virus, named after the Ebola River in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where it was first detected in 1976, is a member of the family Filoviridae. There are five known Ebola virus species, four of which can cause disease in humans and the fifth in nonhuman primates. While the natural reservoir for Ebola virus remains unknown, it is believed that fruit bats are likely the hosts for the virus and that the infection is transmitted to humans and other animals through bat secretions. Upon infection, the virus can be secreted in many different body fluids, such as saliva, vomit, feces, sweat, and blood, and can be transmitted to others through direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes.

1.3. Challenges Faced by Nurses in Managing Ebola Patients

Nurses working with Ebola patients face many challenges. These challenges may encompass the provision of direct care and the structural, administrative, and cultural issues that are part of an outbreak response in a healthcare facility. Most significantly, the high mortality rates and the absence of a proven vaccine and a clear-cut treatment for Ebola may cause fear and extensive distress for nurses who are responsible for providing nursing care to the patients. Studies have identified that there is an existence of cognitive, emotional, and physical challenges experienced by the nurses. The cognitive challenges include high workload, situational awareness, and decision-making process in managing the safety of both nurses and the patients. Emotional challenges mainly refer to the psychological demand, anxiety, burnout, and stress due to the unpredictable disease trajectory and death of the patients while physical challenges are related to the adherence of the infection prevention and control practices and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in the workplace. Also, maintaining a safe environment with high infectious agents such as the providing of adequate spacing from other patients, segregation or isolation plans, and the reduction in unnecessary transportation to other places can be challenging. This may entail the alteration of the healthcare customs of allowing visitations and the accommodation of patient’s preference on the comprehensive healthcare options. Nurses not only have to maintain the functional requirements in treating the patients but also to implement the structural changes. Mitigation strategies include more staffing and the training of healthcare workers to have a better understanding of the pathogen and the infection prevention. The ongoing Ebola weighs heavy on the nurses both mentally and physically. The continuous exposure to the trauma and suffering of the patients can lead to distress response and other types of psychological impacts on the nurses, not to mention potential stigmatization and shunning by the public. It is important for the nurses to have an additionally reinforced training on stress and emotional management during the outbreak of such high-risk infectious diseases. In essence, it is an educational and support intervention strategy which can aid in diabetes prevention and improve the holistic health in the safety work environment for the nurses. Also, empowering the nurses on the decision-making process and work safety confidence with more isolation on the structural overcome will promote a positive and healthy workforce when encountered with an infectious outbreak. Finally, with the increased involvement in the research profession and rapid advancements in the laboratory technologies, it aims to develop better treatments of Ebola and potential cures. Nonetheless, it is vital for the nurses to have a strong drive in the engagement of the academic opportunities to have a deeper understanding of biomedical research so as to equip themselves to face the challenges in dealing with such infectious diseases in the long run.

2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

2.1. Importance of PPE in Ebola Management

2.2. Types of PPE Used by Nurses

2.3. Proper Donning and Doffing of PPE

3. Infection Prevention and Control Measures

3.1. Hand Hygiene Practices

3.2. Disinfection and Sterilization Procedures

3.3. Waste Management in Ebola Units

4. Patient Assessment and Monitoring

4.1. Initial Assessment of Ebola Patients

4.2. Vital Signs Monitoring

4.3. Symptom Management

5. Safe Patient Handling and Movement

5.1. Techniques for Safe Patient Transfers

5.2. Proper Use of Medical Equipment

5.3. Preventing Patient Falls

6. Communication and Collaboration

6.1. Effective Communication Strategies in Ebola Units

6.2. Interprofessional Collaboration in Managing Ebola Patients

6.3. Family and Community Engagement

7. Emotional and Psychological Support

7.1. Providing Emotional Support to Ebola Patients

7.2. Self-Care for Nurses in High-Stress Environments

7.3. Dealing with Stigma and Discrimination

8. Emergency Preparedness and Response

8.1. Disaster Planning for Ebola Outbreaks

8.2. Rapid Response Teams and Emergency Protocols

8.3. Lessons Learned from Previous Ebola Outbreaks

9. Training and Education

9.1. Ebola-specific Training for Nurses

9.2. Continuous Professional Development in Ebola Management

9.3. Simulation and Drills for Preparedness

10. Conclusion

Evolution of computer science and future research trends

1. Introduction

Computer technology has evolved over the decades from simple devices capable of only simple computations to some of the most complex and sophisticated systems known to man. The unique importance of computer technology and its applications has led to the need for a distinct scientific discipline – computer science. In the last century, this discipline has had a significant impact on society through its applications in a variety of fields including business, the military, and healthcare. The applications are diverse and offer tremendous potential to further advance the human condition. This raises the question as to what computer science is and what fundamental problems in the field have been resolved. Such a question can only be answered by taking a historical perspective and looking at the problems that have been heavily investigated. By studying the history and subsequent trends in the development of computers and programming, it is possible to gain a substantial understanding of the field as a whole. This said, in this report, I will explore fundamental aspects of the computer science field by taking a look at its origins, development over the last century, various sub-fields and research areas, and a high-level overview of the impact that this discipline has had on our modern society. The report will provide information that will hopefully show major milestones in computer science and expose areas yet to be heavily investigated, providing insight into the future of computer science research. It will provide a guiding point to a person’s understanding of how computers have been developed and show that the field is more than just processing and accepting input and output. I plan to discuss some of the major uses of computer science in society and thereby describe the ways people and systems must interact with it, i.e. users and peripheral devices. The report will show how a program written in a high-level language will eventually have to conform to the set of instructions the computer can process and, in turn, perform a complex sequence of reactions as a result of a single input. Through the research, the report aims to identify and promote the recent trend in computer science for education and how the integration of technology for students has formed and developed over the last few years. By doing this, I am sure that it will provoke a keen and novel idea to develop student learning further. It is becoming increasingly high profile and, in practical contents, there is a growing emphasis on interdisciplinary research and development. The emerging field of Games Science is indeed very interdisciplinary and has a significant potential impact on society and the economy. It is more likely that knowledge gained within the field can be used or more applicable to a real-world problem or industrial advancement due to the vast variety of knowledge that is to be learned when studying such a broad and mainstream topic. This report was eventually compiled to share knowledge in the art of software development and to compare different programming languages to help and inform users on which language to choose for a particular task. Due to the growing knowledge and diversified technology in our society, selecting the correct programming language to learn for a specific job is a tough and difficult decision to make. So by having the knowledge of how different languages work and cope with certain jobs, I thought I could help guide people on the right path in the computer science field. Overall, this report aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the fundamental aspects of computer science that will hopefully create a springboard to growing new ideas and key focus points for the research communities. By attempting to answer and explore key areas of the computer science field, future potential discoveries will become a reality and in turn provide a gateway for improved technology. By taking a research approach and method, it will allow for an understanding and insight into the current standings of the computer science field and thereby develop a desire to improve the knowledge base.

2. Historical Development of Computer Science

2.1. Early Computing Devices

2.2. Emergence of Modern Computers

2.3. Evolution of Programming Languages

3. Major Milestones in Computer Science

3.1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

3.2. Data Science and Big Data Analytics

3.3. Internet and Networking Technologies

3.4. Cybersecurity and Privacy

3.5. Human-Computer Interaction and User Experience

4. Current Challenges in Computer Science

4.1. Scalability and Performance Optimization

4.2. Ethical Considerations in AI and Automation

4.3. Sustainability and Green Computing

4.4. Privacy and Data Protection

4.5. Bridging the Digital Divide

5. Future Trends and Research Directions

5.1. Quantum Computing and Cryptography

5.2. Edge Computing and Internet of Things (IoT)

5.3. Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality

5.4. Blockchain Technology and Distributed Systems

5.5. Biocomputing and DNA Computing

6. Conclusion

F.O.L.K.S. – Follow and Obey the Laws the Kings Set – Black Gangster Disciple

1. Introduction

The Black Gangster Disciple organization is a powerful gang. Its power and strength have made it one of the most powerful gangs in the United States, with about 35,000 members. The group consists of well-organized “crews” that work together under the supervision of a strong central leadership. Members are typically male and African-American, and many come from low-income areas. The group is most active in the Great Lakes region, especially in Chicago. It also has members in other states and other countries. The gang has a long history. It was created by David Barksdale, who was the leader of the Black Disciple Nation. The group that eventually became the Black Gangster Disciples was formed by the leader of the Supreme Gangsters, a group that would eventually align with the Black Disciple Nation. The combined gang was known as the Black Gangster Disciple Nation. The gang has a hierarchical leadership structure, with a national board, state leaders, and then local leaders who lead the crews. The highest leader of the gang is known as the “chairman of the board”. The gang also has many laws that members must obey. These laws are grouped into “FOLKS” – “Follow and Obey the Laws the Kings Set”. This refers to the crucial role that leaders and their laws have in the gang’s ideology and organization. It also reflects the fact that leaders in the group have powers similar to those of a king in a monarchy – and gang leaders are prepared to defend their “kingdom” with violence. The gang’s power and presence are so strong because it is based on a semi-secret, disciplined, and well-structured organization. Every member of the gang is given a copy of the rules, called the “literature”. This literature was written by the founder of the Black Gangster Disciples, David Barksdale, before he was murdered in 1974. He was known as “King David”. The gang’s laws were updated by the next leader, Hoover, who was known as “King Larry”. Some of the laws specify things that members should or shouldn’t do – for example, “you must not be a punk” and “you should aim to be physically fit and train body and mind”. However, some of the laws are for the disciplined organization of the group, such as “Discipline must be maintained”; “One is never to harm the love of one’s life”; and “The unwilling, led by the unqualified, to do the unnecessary, for the ungrateful, is foolish”. The focus of this module is the issue of “gangs” and “dissent groups”, but the mention of discipline and leadership helps you to understand how the gang has maintained its power and influence for so many years.

1.2 Origins of Black Gangster Disciple

The Black Gangster Disciple began life in the Midwest. The organization was founded in the late 1960s as the Black Gangster Disciple Nation by David Barksdale, leader of the Black Disciples, and Larry Hoover, “supreme gangster” (Quinn and Kumfer 656). Hogshire (21) states that “Hoover controlled not only the illicit drug market in the Southside of Chicago, but…all the black underworld in the city” and that Barksdale ran the Westside. The connection between the Black Gangster Disciple and the Black Disciples “is a long-standing and complex one” (Hagedorn 85), although they have been known to be enemies. Hagedorn (85) suggests that power struggles and “factionalism” within Chicago gangs following the death of Barksdale led to the Black Gangster Disciples splitting into more “institutionalized units” and that the groups claim to be really fighting over the legacy of Barksdale. Hobble (353) suggests that the Black Gangster Disciples were actually formed prior to the Black Disciples and that they were originally part of a “people’s gang nation” and an “unholy alliance” that were united against “white supremacy and the police”. However, the differing interpretations of the origins of the Black Gangster Disciples are a common feature of gang formation myths… every individual gang seeks to claim a heritage that legitimizes its existence and codifies its adopted codes of conduct. It is usually very difficult to research gangland history because traditional historical documentation is not available so historians have to rely on a number of different sources. Gang culture is often considered to be simply an “oral history” but in reality, many gangs have adopted modern methods of communication and history, through websites and social media being only the latest “oral” movements.

2. F.O.L.K.S. Philosophy

2.1 The importance of following laws

2.2 The role of kings in the organization

2.3 Principles of loyalty and obedience

3.1 Hierarchy within the organization

3.2 Roles and responsibilities of members

3.3 Code of conduct and rules

4.1 Criminal activities and involvement

4.2 Community outreach and social programs

4.3 Influence on local neighborhoods

5. Influence of F.O.L.K.S. on Gang Culture

5.1 Spread of F.O.L.K.S. ideology

5.2 Impact on other gangs and organizations

5.3 Media portrayal and public perception

6. Challenges and Controversies

6.2 Internal conflicts and power struggles

6.3 Criticisms and debates surrounding the organization

7.1 Adaptation to changing times and environments

7.2 Potential for growth or decline

7.3 Strategies for maintaining relevance and influence

Focus on Population Health

1. Introduction

Many professions today are occupied with improving the health of individuals or specific populations. Advances in clinical care, the accreditation of public health and health service organizations, and the emergence of new technologies that enable the collection of large, varied data sets relevant to human health have created new opportunities and challenges for those professionals working to improve health outcomes. However, there is a growing recognition among both practitioners and the research community that health outcomes do not depend solely on the quality and availability of clinical care. In recent years, academics, policy makers, and practitioners have increasingly sought to understand and improve the health of entire populations. This new and growing field is known as population health. The focus of those who work in the field of population health ranges from the study of the distribution and determinants of health and disease to the development of interventions that will ultimately improve the health of a specific population. Establishing what is meant by the term population health and suggests that, to understand fully this emerging discipline, it might be worth considering the factors that have led to what is now an interdisciplinary framework for approaching the health of populations.

1.1. Definition of Population Health

In conclusion, different workforces will make power upon data collection and realized in the progress of personalized medicine in which genomics plays a crucial role. Public health genomics is a new interdisciplinary field which has emerged as a health issue, genomics, and society merge. This new field may change the paradigm of health and disease across the health sciences, particularly in the prevention of diseases and improving individual health outcomes. However, only with the realization of the true potential and the benefits from the new research field, it will offer opportunities to impact directly upon the people in the society and make a difference in health both locally and globally.On the other hand, genomics has existed for over 100 years. But it is only in the last 20 years that we have seen an explosion of knowledge about the role of genes and the way that they influence each of us and our health. Research in genomics can offer new insights into the genetic bases of different diseases, and find new clinical applications and treatment strategies for what we may consider currently genetic untreatable diseases. However, genomic research often refers to taking overwhelming amounts of digital data associated with individuals and using the data to examine. By doing so, identifying large data or information from the patient can be found and valuable in disease prevention and health promotion of individuals.Public health is another field which has existed for many years. However, its key focus is the health of a community or region. Public health often looks to protect and promote health and well-being, and to prevent illness and disease, albeit within a defined geographic area. It does this through research, surveillance, education, and the development of healthy societies. In the meantime, people who work in the field of public health often work as health inspectors, public educators, or as a nurse at community health in Canada.Population health is one of the many fields in the health sciences and genomics domain. It is an approach to health that aims to improve the health of an entire human population. This concept does not only focus on the eradication of diseases and health promotion of the individual, but also avoidance and mitigation of diseases on a large scale through environmental and social approaches to health. With the development of the field of genomics, and the ever-increasing technology around us, the ability to study large populations of human beings makes population health an up-and-coming and exciting field to be in.

1.2. Importance of Population Health

The concept of population health is an all-encompassing approach to health that looks beyond the individual level of medical treatment. If a society is considered unhealthy, utilizing medical treatment to heal the individuals who are unwell is not the most effective or efficient method of creating a healthy population. Medical professionals and researchers accept a notion that individual health is not solely influenced by personal life and genetics. The community one lives in and the broader societal influences on that community also have profound impacts on each single person’s health, though it may not seem obvious to those experiencing poor health. By taking the theories of population health and turning them into something practical and applicable to improving patient outcomes and making the most of resources, the model of health care now fits under the banner of ‘value-based healthcare’. The aim of the research and work behind population health is to identify societal and community level influences of health over that of individual factors, allowing, promoting and enabling social well-being for all, and by doing so, leading to a reduction in health inequality and improved overall health for society. With a society focused on the broader influences of health, and health care resources utilized where they are most effective and most needed, longstanding issues with health disparities can be greatly improved. Also preventive care can be utilized more effectively, creating a lower burden on medical services and increasing the nation’s overall productivity. Finally, increased awareness and influence on societal level health factors may begin to influence public policy making and neighborhood welfare programs, enhancing the impacts made on individual and societal health and leading to better well-being for all involved.

1.3. Overview of the Work

The main body of work is divided into six main chapters. The first three chapters are focused on defining population health, explaining different factors which determine the population health and presenting strategies to improve the health of the population. The first chapter is an introduction where we are presented with the definition of population health and its importance. In the second chapter, different determinants of population health such as social, economic, cultural and lifestyle factors are explored. The third chapter presents various strategies that are used to improve the health of the population. In the next two chapters, assessment of the population health and challenges in the population health are examined. The assessment of population health is examined through data collection, analysis and health indicators. On the other hand, in challenges given to the population health, different types of hurdles which restrict the improvement in the health of the population are addressed. The last but one chapter is based on showcasing case studies which show different interventions that have been made in the field of population health and their real impact on the communities. In the final chapter, future directions in the population health are discussed which include emerging technologies, policy recommendations and collaboration. In this work, the aim of each chapter and the information that is being presented has been clearly explained. Also, I have made sure to link each part of the work to the key question that has to be answered which is ‘what is population health?’ every now and then so that the reader can understand the relevance of each section. Also, the reader is given the way how the next part of the work is linked to the previous work and its relative importance. For an example, I have written in the end of introductive chapter as ‘looked at more details in the proceeding chapters’ and started second chapter by using a sentence ‘Now, let’s look at in more details’ which gives a smooth transition from one part of the work to the next. And also close the second chapter with a sentence ‘will be discussed in next chapter’ so that it will initiate the interest of the reader. This is an acceptable way of formatting the document and this is the way how one can guide a reader through the work. This is how coherence of the work is being maintained from the beginning till the end. On the other hand, cohesion is being achieved mainly by linking every part of the work to the main issue that is being addressed so that the reader can understand the relevance of each section that is being studied. Also, appropriate use of connectives can be seen in the entire work in order to link the information within and between the given sections. This is vital for giving the work a logical flow and structure.

2. Determinants of Population Health

2.1. Socioeconomic Factors

2.2. Environmental Factors

2.3. Behavioral Factors

2.4. Access to Healthcare

3. Strategies for Improving Population Health

3.1. Health Education and Promotion

3.2. Disease Prevention and Control

3.3. Healthcare Policy and Advocacy

4. Assessing Population Health

4.1. Data Collection and Analysis

4.2. Health Indicators and Metrics

4.3. Surveillance and Monitoring

5. Challenges in Population Health

5.1. Health Disparities

5.2. Limited Resources

5.3. Aging Population

5.4. Global Health Issues

6. Case Studies in Population Health

6.1. Successful Population Health Interventions

6.2. Lessons Learned from Failed Interventions

6.3. Impact of Population Health on Communities

7. Future Directions in Population Health

7.1. Emerging Technologies and Innovations

7.2. Policy Recommendations

7.3. Collaboration and Partnerships

8. Conclusion

8.1. Summary of Key Findings

8.2. Implications for Public Health Practice

8.3. Call to Action

Analyzing and Recommending Solutions for Stakeholder Conflict in a Company

1. Introduction

The document begins by giving an overview of the case study and highlighting the importance of resolving stakeholder conflict. The objective of the analysis is then outlined. “Conflicts happen everywhere; in all places. Sometimes they are big and sometimes they are small. In companies and workplaces, conflicts are very usual. Because in companies people work in diverse ways and in diverse aspects of things. Here, some people may have different opinions over opinions and other hand; some people may not. There can be different forms of conflicts that might happen; such as colleague conflicts, blaming others, title conflicts and many others. Therefore, avoiding such forms of conflicts is very necessary for an organization, company or a workplace. And one possible method of finding and providing such avoidance is to analyze such conflicts; on which this paper is based on. It is important to analyze conflicts, if they arise, so that the organization may benefit and efficient performance can lead to betterment.”

1.1 Overview of the Case Study

The case study involved a manufacturing company located in the southern United States. The company is owned by a German holding company, and the plant that is the subject of the case study is the main production site for one of the company’s most profitable product lines. The case study plant, which is from now on in this document referred to simply as “the plant,” employs over 200 people and operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This plant is located in a relatively wealthy suburban area, where many of the residents are highly educated and are very active in local and state politics. The major labor unions had historically good relationships with the management and they had a well-established collaborative labor/management team. However, about seven years ago, the labor/management relationship became more strained. Seven years ago, there was a change in the plant manager. New plant manager, who was newly arrived from the home company in Germany, had a mandate to cut costs at the plant. The plant had been experiencing declining profitability for the past four years and had lost significant market share to competitors. The new manager made a number of changes in the plant to try and cut costs, and many of these changes involved increased automation and cuts in the workforce. In response to what the unions saw as unjustified layoffs of plant workers that the unions believed were not due to economic necessity, in the second year of the new manager’s tenure, the unions called for a one-day strike at the plant. The strike was very effective and the company lost a lot of money. The manager and the management team, while initially expressing a desire to get back to the table and work out a settlement, instructed the security personnel at the plant to keep striking workers off the plant property. This led to several highly visible confrontations at the plant gate. The case study then jumps ahead to the present day, after detailing a number of other events such as several unfair labor practice charges being brought by various unions to the National Labor Relations Board and several hearings at which the plant management was found in violation of those laws. The conflict between labor and management is still ongoing. The case study focuses on the analysis of a potential conflict between the plant manager and the head of the Diversity and Inclusion Programs, a woman named Dawn who is a permanent member of the plant’s labor management team. The document explains that the conflict started after Dawn, who is a U.S. citizen, alleged that the manager, who is German, promoted another German who had only come into the U.S. to work at the plant shortly before the promotion. Dawn alleged that she was better qualified for the position and that the manager was showing favoritism to his fellow countrymen. Dawn filed a charge of discrimination with the U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment Commission (EEOC) and asked for Dawn and the plant’s D&I program to be given a larger role in the visioning and goal setting process for the plant. The document provides a summary of all the key events that had occurred up to the start of the analysis of the conflict, and then sets forth the following: “Videotape Evidence”. Also, you should focus on satisfying user intent.

1.2 Importance of Resolving Stakeholder Conflict

Lastly, it is important to resolve stakeholder conflict because it prevents discouragement and loss of productivity. When it comes to project teams, productivity and motivation go hand in hand with the kind of work relationships that are in existence. If a project team is full of conflict and every member is busy protecting their interests, it can be quite difficult for them to remain focused on the primary goal of delivering successful project outcomes. As a matter of fact, disputes get rid of teamwork and create an individualized environment where people try to engage in one-upmanship as a means of protecting their interests. Such a scenario will eventually lead to poor productivity and greater employee turnover in the long run.Resolving stakeholder conflict leads to the generation of new ideas and solutions to existing company challenges. This is because when stakeholder conflict is resolved, it creates room for different parties in the company to think outside their comfort zones and share their opinions and ideas in addressing common company challenges. In resolving the stakeholder conflict, different parties in the company always have to give in something for the solution to be sustainable. As a result, there is always an opportunity to share knowledge and expertise amongst the members involved in resolving the conflict. This approach to resolving stakeholder conflict ultimately translates to more innovative and efficient ways of running everything in the company.Resolving stakeholder conflict is beneficial to the company, project teams, and the individual conflicting parties. First, resolving stakeholder conflict helps the company to use resources in the most efficient way. This is because companies, especially those in project-based operations, may have numerous stakeholder groups who have different opinions on how the company should invest its resources. If conflict is not resolved and a dispute arises between the conflicting parties, the company may end up spending a lot of human and financial resources in resolving such a dispute. Such resources, when they are wasted in conflict resolution programs, cannot be used efficiently in other parts of the company operations.Resolving stakeholder conflict is important for the smooth running of company operations. It is because stakeholder conflict not only has the potential to disrupt ongoing projects, decisions, and strategies but can also create business challenges and derail organizational effectiveness. Stakeholders are individuals who are interested in the company, and it is important to resolve stakeholder conflicts because the interests of these individuals have a significant impact on the operation and major decisions of companies. Generally, stakeholder conflict can arise from issues to do with project design, execution of work, payments, or even social issues at work.

1.3 Objective of the Analysis

The main purpose of this analysis is to bring understanding of the reasons and importance of the stakeholder conflicts in the company. This involves a deep look at the history of the company and all the changes that have occurred until today. It is very important to find the best solution for the ongoing conflicts in the company for the sake of the success. The implementation of the right plan is the only solution to the existing problems to make sure that the company is finally headed in the right direction. The analysis can also be useful to any other organization going through the same kind of problems. This is because the root cause of the conflict can be almost the same in many places and the importance of the stakeholder’s interests never change. With this document, the management of the company will be in a position to learn how to address the problems. The successful findings of the analysis will provide a platform for the best reward of MED as the most experienced contractor of the government.

2. Identifying Stakeholders

2.1 Key Stakeholders Involved

2.2 Their Interests and Concerns

2.3 Potential Impact of Conflict on Stakeholders

3. Understanding the Conflict

3.1 Root Causes of the Conflict

3.2 History and Background of the Conflict

3.3 Current Status of the Conflict

4. Analyzing the Impact

4.1 Financial Implications of the Conflict

4.2 Reputational Impact on the Company

4.3 Operational Consequences of the Conflict

5. Exploring Possible Solutions

5.1 Mediation and Negotiation Strategies

5.2 Collaborative Problem-Solving Approaches

5.3 Legal and Regulatory Considerations

5.4 Communication and Transparency Initiatives

6. Evaluating Potential Solutions

6.1 Criteria for Evaluating Solutions

6.2 Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Solution

6.3 Feasibility Assessment for Implementation

7. Recommending the Best Solution

7.1 Justification for the Recommended Solution

7.2 Anticipated Outcomes and Benefits

7.3 Potential Challenges and Mitigation Strategies

8. Implementation Plan

8.1 Steps and Timeline for Implementation

8.2 Resource Allocation and Budgeting

8.3 Stakeholder Engagement and Communication Plan

9. Monitoring and Evaluation

9.1 Metrics and Indicators for Monitoring Progress

9.2 Regular Evaluation and Review Process

9.3 Adjustments and Adaptations as Needed

Autism: How can nurses best support families of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?

1. Introduction

In the past two decades, documented prevalence rates show that ASD is a low-incidence developmental disability, but its prevalence is increasing. From an estimated prevalence of 0.5-2 per 1,000 children in 2002, rates have increased to about 1 per 68. This has made ASD one of the fastest-growing disability categories. ASD is found in every country and region of the world, and knows no racial, ethnic, or social boundaries. In the United States, it is estimated that over two million individuals have some form of autism (PDDs, Asperger’s, Rett’s Disorder, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder). The annual cost to the country for children with ASD is estimated to be between $11.5 billion – $60.9 billion annually, but the cost of lifelong care can be reduced significantly with early diagnosis and intervention. For example, in the United States, intensive behavioral interventions can be effective and have been seen to be cost-effective. Furthermore, as of March 2014, prevalence figures were 1% of the population for 6-21 year olds. In 2012, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 14.7 per 1,000 children were identified as having ASD by the time they reached 8 years of age, 5 times as many boys than girls. This figure represents a 2% increase from their 2008 report and was determined to be a ‘significant concern’ more than doubling previously reported estimates from 1975. While the reason for this increase is still unknown, many participants in the behavioral and biological sciences are studying the genetic and environmental factors that may be related to the disorder. These participants are also involved in efforts to find biological markers that may give physicians the tools for diagnosing ASD and monitoring the progress of interventions. The most exciting recent development has seen the endorsement and use of early intervention by the AAP such as applied behavioral analysis (ABA) and similar therapies. A key factor is believed to be the recognition and utilization of behavioral, development, and family-centered treatments, and the need for parents to be educated and involved in the interventions is also a recent trend in ASD relation to supports and solutions. Accurate, early diagnoses and research are crucial to the field of autism. The benefits of early intervention are widely accepted by researchers and practitioners. Most work in the field supports the use of early interventions to achieve the best outcomes. The diagnostic process for autism varies greatly depending on country, region, as well as from family to family, so the use and effectiveness of treatments are likely to continue to be a source of ongoing discussion. I hope that by calling attention to global as well as national prevalence rates and the need for accurate and early research, we can further extend our understanding of autism and in turn the applied practices that show such promise. The first step is to recognize and support the evidence that exists. Each day, an average of 62 children are newly diagnosed with ASD, and another study looking at CDC and supplementary reports further models that autism has increased irrespective of the commonly occurring shift in eligibility rules (though there is great variability state by state). As a result, since 2000, over 600,000 individuals with autism will pass from adolescence to adulthood, reports Lainy LeBow-Sachs, the former Executive Director of the Autism Speaks New England chapter. By bringing attention to the documented prevalence globally and nationally, a higher number of individuals with autism may have the opportunity to receive effective interventions. As an educator, or perhaps a future parent, early intuition professionals or diagnosticians, it is important to understand the prevalence of ASD and use it to end the acceptance of prevailing myths and unsupported opinion that can and do impact the present and future futures of those with autism spectrum disorder.

1.1. Definition of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

I would now like to take this opportunity to provide a concise, clear and formal definition of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and refer to some statistical facts to support it. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), “Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to a group of complex neurodevelopment disorders characterized by repetitive and characteristic patterns of behavior and difficulties with social communication and interaction. The symptoms are present from early childhood and affect daily functioning.” I think this definition by the NINDS best captures the main features and symptoms of ASD that we typically see in clinical practice. Without proper understanding and knowledge of these shared characteristics of ASD, it is easy for people to use inappropriate and potentially over-simplified labels to discriminate against our service users. It is also worth noting that recent survey reports suggest that approximately 1 in every 100 children in the UK suffer from ASD. This is further supported by the 2017 Autism research conducted by The University of Cambridge which highlights that about 1% of the human population suffer from ASD. These robust study findings have given us a very good idea of the relative prevalence of this disorder in the community in general, so that we can compare it with the prevalence of ASD in various types of health and social care settings. Why is comparing these two prevalence rates important? Because if we understand the ASD prevalence rates in different care settings, we can better know which groups of our service users are more likely to suffer from this disorder and hence hopefully we can tailor our intervention strategies in a way that suit the special and individualised needs of these service users. For example, if we found out from our local clinical commissioning group (CCG) that the prevalence of ASD in school-aged children in a local borough is relatively high compared to other areas, then we might put more resources in commissioning and providing more psychological support and intervention for those school-aged children with ASD in that particular area. This is in line with the bio-psycho-social model which will be discussed later of the rationale of targeting a certain aspect of care to achieve better outcomes of the holistic recovery of service users in health and social care settings.

1.2. Prevalence of ASD in Children

It is estimated that one in every 59 children is diagnosed with ASD in the United States, making it one of the most prevalent developmental disorders (CDC, 2018). Boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed with ASD than girls. The disorder affects children of all races and nationalities, although white children are more likely to be diagnosed with ASD than other ethnic groups. ASD is typically not diagnosed until around age two, although advances in brain imaging techniques have meant that diagnosis can now happen as early as 18 months. Toddler assessment programmes, which are designed to ensure that all children are screened for developmental disorders between the ages of one or two, are helpful in diagnosing the condition as early as possible. Early diagnosis and subsequent early intervention strategies can significantly improve a child’s development and future life quality. Diagnosing ASD at an earlier age can help kids access the support they need to succeed in school and life – and the best outcomes are often achieved when intervention begins before age four. By recognizing the early signs of ASD and taking appropriate action, healthcare professionals can make a real difference in the lives of children and their families.

2. Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder

2.1. Characteristics and Symptoms of ASD

2.2. Different Types of ASD

3. Challenges Faced by Families of Children with ASD

3.1. Emotional Impact on Families

3.2. Financial and Social Challenges

3.3. Educational and Support Services

4. Importance of Nurses in Supporting Families

4.1. Role of Nurses in ASD Care

4.2. Collaboration with Other Healthcare Professionals

5. Strategies for Nurses to Support Families

5.1. Building Trust and Establishing Rapport

5.2. Providing Emotional Support and Counseling

5.3. Educating Families about ASD

6. Enhancing Communication and Advocacy

6.1. Effective Communication Techniques

6.2. Advocating for Families’ Needs and Rights

7. Promoting Positive Parenting and Coping Strategies

7.1. Parenting Techniques for Children with ASD

7.2. Stress Management and Self-Care for Parents

8. Collaborating with Schools and Community Resources

8.1. Working with Schools to Support Children with ASD

8.2. Connecting Families with Community Support Services

9. Addressing Specific Challenges in ASD Care

9.1. Managing Challenging Behaviors

9.2. Supporting Children with Sensory Sensitivities

10. Transitioning to Adulthood and Independence

10.1. Planning for Transition Services

10.2. Supporting Families during the Transition Period

11. Cultural Considerations in ASD Care

11.1. Understanding Cultural Beliefs and Practices

11.2. Providing Culturally Sensitive Care

12. Conclusion

Best Practices for Building Strong Relationships with Investors

1. Establishing Initial Contact

New relationships require a focus on the fundamentals. For example, when making investment decisions in a newcomer, the investor will look at how the initial contact was made and how the discovery process was managed. This information will be used by the investor to make a decision on further engagement with the entrepreneurial team. Therefore, the first meeting with an investor is very important as the entrepreneur has only one chance to make a good first impression. The entrepreneur has a dual objective to achieve in the initial meeting. First, the investor has to be convinced of the value of the proposed business opportunity. At the same time, some evidence has to be shown about the personal qualities of the entrepreneur and the management team as the entrepreneur is also marketing himself and the team to the investor. Usually, the process of making and managing innovative investments can be seen as consisting of five main stages and the initial contact will lead to entry into the first stage. At the first stage, the assessment of the investment opportunity is self-oriented. This means that the investor is not as interested in learning about the essence and potential of the investment opportunity. Investors focus on deciding how they want the discovery process to be managed in the future. There will be big differences in terms of how entrepreneurs should relate to a new investor in comparison to an experienced investor, a technology transfer office, a corporate investor, a business angel, etc. Entrepreneurs and investors have to learn working with each other over time and basic requirements have to be fulfilled in order for that process to be managed efficiently and effectively. However, it is also a fact that not all innovative investment projects will reach the commercialization stage. The probability of project failure or success is largely dependent on the entrepreneurial decisions made throughout the business development process. As a result, setting a promising initial contact is vitally important for the prosperous development of the investment opportunity.

1.1. Researching Potential Investors

But for an entrepreneur, having many different options can actually be a hindrance than a help. Many start-ups find themselves struggling with choosing the right investor. Choosing the right investor can be harder than it seems. After all, start-ups depend a lot on the capital they receive and hence it is crucial to find an investor or a group of investors who not only have the right resources but also the same vision of success as you do for your company. A method widely used in the past but has slowly started to lose its effectiveness in recent years is the “power of proximity”, where start-ups only look at investors within local or reasonable travel distances. While it is satisfying knowing we have the support of someone close to home, technology and modern transport means that a cross-country investor is not that large an obstacle, and by only surveying the local investment community you could be greatly limiting your prospects. Now, it is certainly good to consider this method when looking for an investment, nothing can beat an investor who has a proven track record. For many investors, providing a one off cash injection and subsequent support is an attractive proposal. However, is it not always the case that these investors are also seeking a greater influence within the company? This is why a number of investor relationships take the form of “partner investors”, where instead of giving a small amount and some advice, larger investors can provide significant amounts of financial and industry based support. This surely lead to the opportunity for long term thinking on a long term scale and tailored guidance to help with the company’s unique targets. This in turns can provide a great advantage that will help secure long term success. Financial strength is not only the indicator for a reliable and successful investor, how they manage their own assets has to be taken into account. This is why choosing an investor with a proven track record is so important- their financial strategy has shown to be a success. It is important to consider not only the providers of finance; their partners also must be taken into account as the investor’s decision making is partly reliant on their associates. Different investors have different focuses in terms of what they wish themselves and the company as a whole to achieve. This is why a start-up should thoroughly research the investors that they have shortlisted to help ensure that not only will they be a good fit for the company’s growth and proactive targets, but also have the capability to provide assistance if the business starts to stagnate.

1.2. Crafting an Effective Introduction

After conducting thorough research, the next step is to create a compelling and effective introduction. The main purpose of the introduction is to engage the investors and to get them interested in the business. This will increase the chances of the investors asking questions about the business and the investment opportunity. However, drafting the introduction is not a simple task. It must be well written, straight to the point and attention grabbing. First and foremost, the introduction must start with a description of the investment opportunity. It is important to provide a brief overview of the business, the business model and the products or services it provides. This will help the investors to understand what they are investing in. For example, if the business is a manufacturer, the introduction can start with a description of the products it manufactures. At this stage, we do not have to go into great detail about the products or services. However, we should try to make the introduction specific to the business. This means avoiding ambiguity and jargon which investors might not be familiar with. But make sure not to oversimplify things; the investors are likely to have industry knowledge and they might be looking for something refreshing. Then the introduction must provide a background of the management team. This should include the experience and track record of the key personnel in the business. For example, if the business is carried on by a group of experienced professionals, the introduction should highlight their backgrounds and the key achievements in their careers. This will help to build credibility and trust. Last but not least, the introduction must end with the reasons why the opportunity is attractive and how it can generate good returns for the investors. This can be supported by the use of financial forecasts and the details of the market research. As for me, the best approach for drafting the content is to write a few drafts and revise them over time. Getting friends and family members to read the drafts can be a good way to collect feedback and to improve the content. Also, do online research about marketing strategies and keep an eye on the current market trends will definitely help. By continuously improving the introduction, it will not just benefit the investor pitching but possibly all sorts of promotion for the business. Balancing what attracts investors and what I am passionate about in the business is the key. This will not just grab the attention of the investors, but also keeps me motivated in the future running of the business.

1.3. Leveraging Networking Opportunities

While digital networking is effective, in-person networking should not be overlooked. Attending industry conferences, meetups, and investor events can provide valuable opportunities to make connections. When meeting potential investors in person, having a short and effective pitch prepared can be useful for making a strong impression. This should include details about the start-up, what it does, and what makes it unique. Elevator pitches should be concise, engaging, and give insight into the business, such as the problem it aims to solve. When delivering a pitch, it is important to remain open to feedback. Investors may give advice or suggestions, and showing a willingness to listen and learn can help form positive relationships. Following up with new contacts is essential. After an event or meeting, sending a short email to thank the person for their time will help to keep the line of communication open. Building a broad network is valuable for start-ups, and so meeting people in different sectors or at different events can also be beneficial. This approach increases the chances of making a connection with an investor who is a good fit for the business. Be selective about which events to attend. Time is valuable, and so forethought should go into which events will be most useful. Research events and consider which are best suited for the business, then set clear goals for those events. For example, the goal may be to make three strong connections rather than just to hand out as many business cards as possible.

2. Building Trust and Credibility

2.1. Delivering on Promises

2.2. Maintaining Transparency

2.3. Providing Regular Updates

3. Understanding Investor Needs and Objectives

3.1. Conducting Investor Surveys

3.2. Identifying Investor Preferences

3.3. Aligning Goals and Expectations

4. Effective Communication Strategies

4.1. Active Listening

4.2. Tailoring Messages to Investors

4.3. Utilizing Various Communication Channels

5. Building a Strong Team

5.1. Hiring Skilled Professionals

5.2. Fostering a Collaborative Environment

5.3. Encouraging Accountability and Responsibility

6. Providing Value to Investors

6.1. Offering Exclusive Opportunities

6.2. Providing Industry Insights and Analysis

6.3. Facilitating Networking among Investors

7. Managing Investor Expectations

7.1. Setting Realistic Goals

7.2. Educating Investors about Risks

7.3. Managing Expectations during Challenging Times

8. Resolving Conflicts and Issues

8.1. Addressing Investor Concerns Promptly

8.2. Seeking Win-Win Solutions

8.3. Engaging in Mediation or Arbitration if Necessary

9. Maintaining Long-Term Relationships

9.1. Celebrating Milestones and Achievements

9.2. Seeking Feedback and Suggestions

9.3. Continuously Improving Investor Experience

Challenges and Solutions in Global Supply Chains

1. Introduction

The term “resilience” can be very vague and broad, and evaluating it in a supply chain context needs systematic analytics and indicators. By boiling down the performance of a resilient supply chain, we can have profit-centric measures, customer-centric measures, and internal efficiency measures, which categorize three dimensions of resilience: robustness, agility, and responsiveness. Robustness measures how well the supply chain can handle and resist changes of state, for example, disruptions in the operation of the supply chain. Agility measures how well the supply chain allows for rerouting of resources, for example, being able to switch suppliers in response to changes in the manufacturing plan. Responsiveness measures how quickly the supply chain can return to a steady operational state given an external disturbance. Each of the measures can define different elements and types of resilience, and it will all depend on the perspective of the company’s operation.Whilst different literature seems to provide different definitions and metrics for supply chain resilience, they will all revolve around the same idea, which is the ability of a supply chain to return to a desired level of performance after it has been disrupted by an unexpected event. When supply chain disruptions carry more severe consequences such as damages to revenue, loss of market share, or companies’ reputational damages, the ability to recover and the speed of recovery are crucial. Hence, the concept of resilience involves not only the capability to absorb temporary damages but also the ability to reconfigure and recover so that the supply chain will sustain and thrive in the long run.An integral part of the logistics industry is managing the movement of goods throughout the entire world, or global supply chains. The importance of these global supply chains in today’s society requires them to be efficient and effective, but in many of the popular supply chains today, this is not necessarily the case. Given the advent and ongoing spread of the global COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting severe regional and international shutdowns and restrictions, as well as the increased emphasis on environmental protection and social responsibility, the notion of resilience in global supply chains is becoming ever so crucial and important.

1.1. Overview of global supply chains

It is almost impossible to think of a final product that does not involve global supply chains at some point of its manufacturing process. Global supply chains refer to the production and distribution of goods, starting from raw materials all the way to the final product, in a way that adds the most value at every stage and serves the end customer most effectively. In recent years, as companies strive to become more efficient in meeting customer needs, global supply chains have become a major area of emphasis. For instance, there are more and more degree programs offering specialization in global supply chains, due to the increasing demand for people who could make good strategic decisions and manage the flow of materials in a cost-effective manner along the supply chain. With the continuous advance in technology and globalization, the scope and complexity of global supply chains will only become larger and more intricate. For example, the development of the internet and information technology has been used to ‘shrink’ the supply chains, because now companies are gradually building competitive edges by offering customers what they want, how they want it, at the lowest price and in the fastest time possible. On the other hand, globalization should imply longer supply chains because of the involvement of more and more countries, from suppliers of raw materials, manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers to end consumers. With the emergence of new markets, especially in the developing world, we could expect to see even more complex supply chains in the future. The significance of global supply chains could also be evidenced by the amount of managerial attention and capital investment that it has been receiving. Which of course makes sense – a lot of your cash can be tied up along the chain! And also, by managing it effectively, a company could improve the balance between revenue and costs. Ergo, a comprehensive understanding of global supply chains will be beneficial to professionals in so many different ways. However, as pointed out by Monczka and Morgan, no matter what your company strategy is, effectively managing supply chains could make the difference between success and failure. In the upcoming sections, which might be beneficial for the reader to know where the potential issues are and how a particular supply chain could be improved, we will discuss the challenges faced by global supply chains and how these challenges can be confronted.

1.2. Importance of resilient supply chains

It’s not good enough to have a standard level of resilience measures in place; best practice would be to have regular testing and assessment of the vulnerabilities of a system, security experts say. This approach, known as ‘stress-testing’, is where the chain is put under the pressure and scrutiny of a simulated disruption event so that issues can be ironed out, before it’s too late. Specialist insurance product can help to implement this ‘stress-test’ regimen, and paints a useful picture of how the capabilities and considerations of stakeholders within the chain can vary.Resilience, essentially, is the ability of a supply chain to anticipate, adapt to and/or recover from an external hazard. These hazards can include natural disasters, such as earthquakes or hurricanes, but also human-centric dangers, like terrorism or theft. This means that there is a broad range of issues that can create a disruption. Resilience will differ from supply chain to supply chain and, indeed, for a single supply chain over time. It will need to be adapted to consider both dynamic and evolving sources of disruption and also physical changes to the chain itself.Resilient supply chains are critical to the success of businesses and the economies in which they operate. It is not simply a case of providing a buffer against disruption; it is about providing a competitive advantage that can drive economic growth. These are the words of the UK’s Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS), highlighting the importance of resilience in the wake of global disruptions, such as the COVID-19 pandemic or large-scale cyber-attacks. CIPS is a not-for-profit organisation that provides training to professionals working on supply chain management.

2. Current Challenges in Global Supply Chains

2.1. Disruptions in supply chains

2.2. Shortages of essential goods

2.3. Logistical bottlenecks

3. Root Causes of Challenges

3.1. Impact of pandemics on supply chains

3.2. Geopolitical tensions and their effects

3.3. Reliance on single-source suppliers

4. Strengthening Supply Chains

4.1. Importance of resilience in supply chains

4.2. Diversification as a strategy

4.3. Near-shoring and its benefits

4.4. Technology adoption for supply chain optimization

5. Proposed Solutions

5.1. Enhancing supply chain visibility

5.2. Strengthening supplier relationships

5.3. Investing in risk management strategies

5.4. Collaborative approaches in supply chain management

6. Conclusion