The Concept Of Evidence Based Practice Social Work Essay

The Concept Of Evidence Based Practice Social Work Essay Introduction This essay aims to identify and critically appraise evidence of whether social intervention improve outcome for depression in British Pakistani women. I will analyse whether social intervention can lead to improve mental wellbeing, empowerment and individual growth. I will analyse the value emphasis of therapeutic social support in mental health. The context of social work practice in mental health is complex, therefore social work intervention has to have an ethical and value based framework. I will assess the theoretical basis for standardise practice. The statutory changes in Britain to consider the fundamental values position incorporated in recent policies and legislation will be examined. Define the concept of evidence based practice Evidence based practice (EBP) according to Sackett (1997) citied in Gray et al (2009: 119) connotes a process of improving professional judgement through the conscientious and judicious integration and synthesis of well-researched empirical evidence to evaluate the efficacy and effectiveness of intervention in enhancing service users outcomes and how this can be integrated into practice context to improve service delivery and professional accountability (Department of Health Service and Public Safety, 2012) (Gray, Plath, Webb, 2009) (Sheppard, 2004) (Corby, 2006). It gives a framework for analysing the situation and generating a number of possible options (Thompson N., 2000, p. 35). (Mathews Crawford, 2011) suggested that practitioners must think critically and reflect on research evidence for credibility, completeness and transferability to inform professional judgement as this an implication for policy makers, professionals, communities and service users. The impetus for EBP within social work is underpinned on the centrality on service users best interest to guide practice that is culturally sensitive and of significance to service users within the dynamic context of practice, legislation and social policy (Bolton, 2002). EBP therefore necessitates social workers reflexivity of how values, theoretical assumptions, policies, past experiences and the context in which practice takes place combine with service users perspective, preferences, and culture to guide and inform practice (Munro, 2002:10). This is to account for the multifaceted personal, cultural and social dimensions of service users (Webber Nathan, 2010) Select an aspect of social work What interest me in this topic is the gap which exist in providing culturally sensitive support to black and ethnic minority group with depression. The evidence available suggest that individual with mental health distress including depression are the most marginalised and excluded groups in society (Stepney Ford, 2001). Additionally, the prevalence of depression in black and minority ethnic (BME) and in particular women from Pakistani background in Britain, underlines the importance of supporting statutory and voluntary initiatives directed towards meeting their needs (Husain, Creed, Tomenson, 1997) (Gater, et al., 2009). (Miranda, et al., 2003) noted the gap in evidence based for social intervention. Drawing on their practice experiences and appropriate evidence Within the context of community voluntary mental health services, their diverse types of evidence that informs practice and policy and social workers have an ethical obligation in the choice of theories and model of working. In my practice, a systems approach is emphasised in understanding the interplay and multiplicity of service users context. Psychodynamic approach is concerned with how perceptions of needs, stigma and stereotypical assumptions motivate human behaviour including help seeking, disclosure of sensitive information. Past experiences are seen as central in the problems individual experience and used in understanding the dynamics of the helping relationship. Social learning theory suggests behaviours are influenced by service users socio-cultural context. For example help seeking behaviour is influenced and reinforced by stigma and service delivery Therefore cognitive- behavioural therapy is emphasised by understanding the role perceptions in help seeking. Therefore through interaction, modelling service users perception is influenced. Conflict theory is invaluable in understanding cultural conflicts, stigma and oppression, power imbalance. As noted in Saleeby (1996) the strength perspective is intrinsic to social work values of service users involvement, and respecting individual as having strengths The feminist perspective takes into account the role of gender and the historical lack of power experienced by women. Collaborative relationship is emphasised between the social worker and service user through equality and empowerment. Through empirical observation using randomised controlled trial, Gater, et al (2010) investigated the effective of Social intervention for British Pakistani women with depression. It sought to explain the cause and effect, to predict and control reality, and to create unambiguous objective truth that can be proven or disproved to inform the effectiveness of intervention and policies implementation. Qualitative data used to understand individuals social reality within their socio- cultural context which questions cultural assumptions, discrimination and oppression and the implication and significance in implementation. This can be used to conceptualise service users perspective regarding intervention and polices implications, their needs and perceptions about current polices and interventions. The problem solving model focuses on understanding service users in their context and working in partnership. In a cross sectional study, prevalence of depression amongst women of Pakistani origin was twice as high compare to white European women (Gater, et al., 2009). (Campbell McLean, 2002) suggested that social capital resources is embedded in within social networks and improve recovery. An alternative explanatory framework for the prevalence of depression in Pakistani women in mental health statistics has been the social constructive perspective. This perspective encompasses help seeking behaviour. There are some evidenced based interventions that have been proven to help people recovery from depression. The randomized control trial study by (Harris, Brown, Robinson, Befriending as an intervention for chronic depression among women in an inner city: Randomised control trail, 1999) found that befriending schemes are beneficial in improving recovery. This is to counter the criticisms of institutional racism and cultural assumptions in the delivery of mental health services to black and ethnic minority groups (Gould, 2010). Phillip Rack (1982) cited in (Gould, 2010): 40 proposed a Culturally attuned approach that used insight This intervention is central to social work values of respecting and valuing uniqueness and diversity and recognising and building strengths. Social intervention involves aspects of partnership and include and emphasis on the impact of environmental pressures on individuals and therefore can be invaluable in anti-discriminatory work with service users in offering empowerment and dealing with structural oppression (Ahmad B. , 1990, p. 51). He also noted the importance of importance of qualitative research in exploring these issues (Ahmad W. , 1995). This social intervention included specific target groups. It uses an approach that included education and/or direct contact with people who are depressed. Social intervention provides social workers with a structural appreciation of the nature of social problems (Gould, 2010, p. 60) (Harris, 2010) social support and depression Reconnection of hope through therapeutic encounter Psychosocial and cognitive therapies have now been included in clinical practice guidelines. However, there remain considerable problems with black and ethnic minority accessing these services. Research has shown a consistent relationship between mental illness and indicators of social disadvantages (Fryers, Melzer, Jenkins, 2003). Thus, development of strategies to support help seeking and treatment is needed. (Mathews Crawford, 2011) (Orme Shemmings, 2010) (Smith, 2004) (Gask, Aseem, Waquas, Waheed, 2011) qualitative thematic analysis (social isolation) family conflict, social cultural factors, psychosocial factors Identify what can be learned from the evidence In Gater,et al (2010) Social intervention for British Pakistani women with depression: randomised controlled trial, Participants social functioning and depression were signi ¬Ã‚ cantly improved. Given the prevalence of depression (Gater, et al., 2009) in this group and the under-representation amongst people able to access supportive services, this presents an important development. In relation to improving participants engagement qualitative studies have found the debilitating effect of stigma as a signi ¬Ã‚ cant barrier for accessing support (Livingston Boyd, 2010) (Mak, Poon, Pun, Cheung, 2007). Stigma is understood as the interplay of individuals social identity and socio-cultural dynamics in which individuals with mental health are discriminated against and socially excluded due to stereotypical assumption (Lam, 2008). This  ¬Ã‚ nding is consistent with the evidence regarding social support interventions in (Harris, A stress-vunerability model of mental health disorder: implications for practice, 2010). However, there is a gap of how stigma associated with mental illness can be reduced. The study was of high research quality, which indicates a reduced risk of biasness and confounding. A major limitation of this study is heterogeneity amongst the sample, that only 123 participants and increase in social functioning is limited to only 3 months. Therefore, the medium to long-term effects of social intervention within this group remain largely unknown. Another research gap is the absence of a dynamic medication adherence related studies aimed at this group, which have been identi ¬Ã‚ ed as important for achieving adherence and better outcome for depression (Miranda, et al., 2003). Addressing the resistance from family members around issue of confidentiality and stigma amongst this population may be best accomplished through culturally appropriate communication strategies that facilities warm and empathy and social capital. In contrast, the research suggests that social intervention although it improves depression in the short run will not achieve meaningful improvements in the long run without antidepressant. (Department of Health, 2007) emphasises partnership working, respect for diversity, strengths and aspirations and service users centred. Its focus on effectiveness, accountability and personal development are congruent with the principles of evidence based practice. (Slade, 2009) noted that personal recovery is a challenging and contested concept within the domain of empirical evidence. The multi facet level of mental illness is evident in the definition of mental health, the impact of treatment and the social consequences. However, (Resnick, Fontana, Lehman, RA, 2005) highlighted that empowerment, hope and optimism, knowledge and life satisfaction outcome that are central to the recovery model allows the prevalence of recovery to be investigated empirically. (Gould, 2010) As stated in (Gater, et al., 2009), an epidemiology of depression that accounts for social support and social difficulties is critical. Social context of depression Nonetheless, depression is associated with important negative consequences, such as social exclusion, low self-esteem. Social exclusion according to (Hills, LeGrand, Piachaud, 2004)should be conceptualise in the context of the personal, cultural and structural dimension and highlighted lack of social interaction as a form of social exclusion. Attuned to cultural beliefs and norms Social and inclusive practice have been developed and reinforced by the Capabilities for Inclusive Practice (Department of Health , 2007) report: working in partnership, respecting diversity. Assessment requires service users participation and access to information to make informed choice. This model of assessment has to be cultural sensitive and proactive in nature. Psychosocial assessment Although social support is frequently referred to as beneficial in relation to depression, there has been little attempt to specify what this means and to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions to reduce isolation. (Tew, 2004) Partnership working is crucial in adopting a social model of intervention. Culturally sensitive practice. (Gater, Waheed, Husain, Tomenson, Aseem, Creed, 2010) (Webber W. , 2011) Research indicates that (Oakley, Strange, Toroyan, Wiggins, Roberts, Stephenson, 2003) Mental health is practice within a context of multi-disciplinary collaboration to integrate the bio-psychosocial model of practice. The implementation of EBP within this context has to account for the theoretical assumptions that underpin this area of practice. This involves training and supervision. Research by (Huxley, et al., 2005) indicated stress of workers as accounting for their lack of implementing EBP. noted that another reason for EBP not been implemented is due to stereotypical assumptions that black and ethnic minorities prefer informal support than support from professional. One barrier to effective assessment and intervention for depression epidemiology Another barrier is the reluctance of ethnic minority group to share their emotional symptoms due to family pressure and perceive stigma. To overcome these barriers, social intervention that accounts for social capital is crucial. EBP therefore requires practice that is needs not resources leads if services are to be provided that are of sound professional judgement. Perceptions about depression and stigma have been empirically supported in experimental, cross-sectional and longitudinal studies to worsen depression and affect interpersonal outcome and social support (Thomsen, 2006). Analysis and reflective process of data collection, the transparencies about the relational nature of the research, and the ways which service users perspective are constructed through a respectful partnership and reflexivity of how our values, theoretical assumptions, policies, past experiences and the context in which practice takes place. Trust and openness in research relationship a reciprocal process right- based analytical approach (Department of Health, 2008) ethical and critical engage that with respectful uncertainties that reflect on the process of engagement and analysis Mutual and sincere collaboration, over time respectful uncertainties Using multiple data sources to account for publication biasness and multiple perspectives and ways of knowing Acknowledgement of complexities of realities Use of reflexivity focus on contexts of and relationships between researcher and researched as shaping the creation of knowledge. Ethical consideration in knowledge (Gask, Aseem, Waquas, Waheed, 2011) understanding how symptoms are expressed and perceive. Understanding emotional expressiveness within cultural context. Conclusion In conclusion, social intervention has highlighted strategies that have demonstrated some success for improving help seeking. Given the complexities and multi facet dimension of individual experiences and the context in which needs occurs, it is imperative that the uniqueness of individual is taken into account within the paradigm of culturally competent practice (Dalrymple and Burke, 2006). In addition, Social Work practice draws on theoretical knowledge from social sciences, which are usually Eurocentric, it is essential, that Social Work practice integrate knowledge from best evidence for it to meet it ethical obligation to counter oppressive and discriminatory practice (Thompson N. , 2003) (Webber W. , 2011). (Thompson N. 2003)

Pros of British Imperialism in Africa Essay

The British colonized Africa from Egypt in the north to South Africa. Extension of a nation’s power through conquering overseas territory, know as imperialism had several motivations. Nationalism urged the nations of Europe to conquer land overseas. Having colonies was seen as a matter on national prestige, it was a symbol of the nation’s greatness. Lands in Africa, rich in raw materials and markets, were seen as economic opportunities for the European nations. Along with the rest of Europe Britain participated in the Scramble for Africa. The biggest urge to colonize was brought on by the economic benefits that the colonies would bring. Africa was seen as a major source of possible income, with its’ raw materials and markets for European manufactured goods. Around the 19th century, as the interest in slave trade declined other forms of trade became increasingly interesting, European powers continued to seek income. The Westerners had a keen interest in Africaâ₠¬â„¢s natural resources such as animal hides, palm oil, peanuts, rubber, timber, and tin. The growing European presence led to increasing tensions in the region. British colonization of Africa began in 1874. British imperialism started with the annexing of the west costal states (which became the Gold Coast colony) and establishing a protectorate in Nigeria. Around 1914, the Scramble for Africa had ended; Britain was in charge of a huge part of the continent. Britain controlled Anglo-Egyptian Sudan, Bechuanaland, British East Africa, British Somalia, Egypt, Gambia, Gold Coast, Nigeria, Northern Rhodesia, Nyasaland, Pemba, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Southern Rhodesia, Uganda, Union of South Africa, Walvis Bay, and Zanzibar. The size of the British reign over Africa was greater than that of any other nations. An aspiration of the British was to stretch a telegraph line from their northern colonies to their southernmost ones. Cecil Rhodes, a successful British businessman, can be credited for the vastness of the British control in Africa. One of his ambitions was to create a series of British colonies from Cape Town to Cairo, all connected by a railroad. In fact, Cecil Rhodes was partially responsible for sparking the Boer War which lasted from 1899 to 1902. Soon after, the British government made Rhodes to resign from his post as head of Cape Colony. Ultimately, his goal was to gain as much territory in Africa as possible for the British. Not only did imperialism provide the colonizing country with profit, the colonized lands and people also benefited from it. Western nations brought useful innovations and improvements to the people’s lives. Some of the technological advances were telegraphs, railroads, and telephones. More importantly, stable government systems, Western education, hospitals, were introduced to the colonized lands to improve the overall living standards. The British were able to bring these innovations to the continent of Africa and help the nations under their imperialistic rule. Imperialism is the extension of a nation’s power over other lands. A nation with colonies was viewed as superior to those without; it was able to sustain its’ place amongst the leading powers. Imperialism allowed a country to control faraway lands, rich in natural resources and local markets, and profit economically. Imperialism was beneficial not only to the imperialistic nation, but the colony as well.

Characteristics of Successful Online Students Essay

â€Å"In this age of learner-centered learning, online instruction provides a unique opportunity for learning materials, tasks, and activities to fit individual learning styles and preferences (Bonk, Wisher & Lee, 2003).† Learning styles along with other factors have an impact on the characteristics of successful online students. Each student is different, how he or she obtain information and apply it to their online learning will determine their success. Successful online students must be well rounded, having characteristics to regulate, self-motivate, and manage their time wisely; thus, successful online students must be responsible and have the ability to adapt. Web-based learning has become increasingly popular, as technologies have advanced. Time-management as well as different learning styles has the ability to affect the success of online learners. Online learners must have the ability to manage their time effectively, use visual and non-visual tools; also, they must be able to manage their resources. Student backgrounds also affect the success of online learners. â€Å"Learning styles refer to the different ways learners use to perceive, process and conceptualize information. (Zacharis, N. Z. 2011)† Students should determine their learning style and have the ability to apply it to their online learning to better use their time and to obtain the most information out of their learning. In reading this article I have learned it is best for a student to first identify their learning style in order to determine their potential successes and failures in becoming an online learner. Online learning is not for everybody. The content of this article was not surprising; I find online learning to be a challenge every day. Each semester you have to become familiar with different teaching styles of professors and their expectations with the inability to personally meet the professor. I found this article to go hand in hand with the course material read this far. It is important to determine learning styles and to determine what works best for you, s uch as flashcards, highlighting, reading and re-reading. Each individual is different, it is important to determine a  plan of action in order for an online learner to succeed to his or her full potential. â€Å"Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning. (Proverb 9:9)† This proverb relates to the article and course material in that online courses only provide a sense of direction for a student and what the student does with that direction will determine their success. In my own path of obtaining my online degree I will begin to better so determine what works best for me, what learning style best fits to my courses and myself. First, I will determine my main learning style. Second, I will apply it to this course and my other courses to determine a plan of action to complete the rest of my assignments. Lastly, I will use what I have learned throughout the rest of my degree to achieve the highest level of success and understanding. I believe this information can also be applied to everyday life, to manage relationships, money, and time effectively. In conclusion, effective online learning is not for everybody. The success of online learning is determined by the success and abilities of the individual person to comprehend, and manage their time and resources effectively. Characteristics of successful online learners include patience, motivation, and also self-discipline. In proverbs 1:5 â€Å"let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance†. Works Cited: Bonk, C. J., Wisher, R. A. & Lee, J. (2003). Moderating learner-centered e-learning: problems and solutions, benefits and implications. In T. S. Roberts (Ed.), Online collaborative learning: theory and practice (pp. 54–85). Hershey, PA: Idea Group Publishing. Zacharis, N. Z. (2011), The effect of learning style on preference for web-based courses and learning outcomes. British Journal of Educational Technology, 42: 790–800. doi: 10.1111/j.1467-8535.2010.01104.x

Technology Application Analysis Free Essay Example, 1750 words

Description of the patient/client population to be served Medication errors do not choose particular types of patients. It affects any patient in the clinical setting whose drugs have been prescribed by given wrongly or erroneously to them. Any patient who needs prescription from a healthcare professional in a clinical setting is bound to be served by the CPOE because CPOE systems are used in conjunction with e-prescribing systems that provide physicians and clinicians with specific information regarding a particular patient’s drugs. Such information includes drug names, allergies and current medications among others. Therefore, CPOE is intended for all patients because no patient is immune to medication errors because they can happen to any patient. (Van Rosse, et. al, 2009). What are the benefits of the system? The CPOE has several benefits both to the medical/ healthcare delivery teams and to the patient. The first benefit is that it improves healthcare delivery generally by reducing medication errors (Khanna & Yen, 2014). The us e of CPOE has shown that it has helped the healthcare provision team to deal with more patients with drug concentration in the therapeutic range. We will write a custom essay sample on Technology Application Analysis or any topic specifically for you Only $17.96 $11.86/pageorder now It has also enabled healthcare providers to reduce the time that they take to prescribe and give medicine to patients, thereby achieve therapeutic benefits. In treatment of adults, it has helped to reduce the adverse effects of medication errors (Khanna & Yen, 2014). Therefore, CPOE helps healthcare delivery teams to tailor medical doses to the needs of individual patients. CPOE also helps in improving patient safety in different ways. First, the use of CPOE is advantageous compared to handwritten prescriptions because they are legible. This means that the pharmacist can clearly see what the physician has prescribed and give the patient the exact medicine that is required (Van Rosse, et. al, 2009). Secondly, CPOE is more detailed than handwritten prescriptions because it requires doctors to include information about dosage, frequency and route of administration because the prescription is authorized. This leads to complete and structured medication prescriptions. CPOE also goes further than handwritten prescriptions because it can link with databases that show background information about the patient and help in decision making, for instance by enabling doctors to avoiding prescribing drugs that the patient has already used, warn against drug-dosage errors, contra-indications and interactions (Aarts & Koppel, 2009).