/library/oar/handle/123456789/43377 2026-05-26T04:16:57Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/111280 Title: The role of the radiographer in Malta Abstract: The role of the radiographer as a healthcare professional is undergoing several changes in the global perspective, with Malta being no exception. This fact prompted the researcher to evaluate the role of the Maltese radiographer from various perspectives to capture the essence of such a role. The research was conducted by means of a questionnaire distributed randomly to the Maltese population of radiographers. Also, an informal pilot study was done in the form of three interviews with three radiographers having different lengths of working experience and occupying different posts within the local Radiography profession. The results of the study demonstrate that the majority of Maltese radiographers perceive themselves as producers of diagnostically valid images; however, the results also indicate that the role is complex and unique to the local institution with several unique traits which are present only locally. On the basis of the findings recommendations were proposed. Description: B.SC.(HONS)RADIOGRAPHY 2002-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/111219 Title: Imaging assessment of liver metastases Abstract: Metastases are the most common cause of malignancy in the liver. Although clinical evaluation may play a role, its diagnosis relies mostly on radiological imaging. Ultrasound (US), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT), Radionuclide Imaging (RNI) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) all contribute to the evaluation of liver metastases and ultimately to better prognosis. An extensive literature review was undertaken in order to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of different imaging modality in differentiating liver metastasis which are lcm or larger in diameter. The results obtained were compared and discussed with surgical inspection and pathological findings to help establish the accuracy of each imaging modality. Since it is not expensive, readily available, and makes use of nonionising radiation, US is usually the first choice of investigation. However, due to its low sensitivity it is inconclusive. Ferumoxides enhanced MRI was found to be slightly more accurate than Spiral CT Arterial Portography. PET was shown to be the most accurate imaging modality. However, being very expensive it is only available in few institutions/ hospitals. The majority of literature reviewed concluded that the imaging modalities in current use are sensitive for lesions greater than lcm in size. Thus, the challenge is to detect smaller lesions. Finally, on the basis of literature reviewed, recommendations for an imaging strategy-when liver metastasis is suspected in relation to the current situation in Malta were proposed. Description: DIP.RADIOGRAPHY 2002-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/65449 Title: Compliance among diabetic adolescents Abstract: The purpose of this study was to investigate compliance among diabetic adolescents. A convenience sample of 28 insulin-dependent diabetic adolescents attending the outpatients Diabetes Clinic and the Maltese Diabetes Association was selected. A descriptive survey design was utilised. A questionnaire was used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. Content analysis was employed to evaluate the qualitative component of the data. The findings demonstrate that various factors could influence compliance with diabetes treatment regimen. The study showed that the impact of diabetes on the adolescents influences the management of diabetes, which has an effect on their compliance with health regimens. A very significant finding was the way positive parental involvement is conducive to a high degree of compliance among these diabetic adolescents. As a result of this study recommendations for practice and suggestions for further research are given. Description: B.SC.(HONS)NURSING 2002-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/65416 Title: Nurses' perceptions of their autonomy in wound management Abstract: Although there is a plethora of nursing literature on nurse autonomy and wound management as separate issues, very few studies concerning nurse autonomy in wound management are available. The aim of this exploratory, descriptive study was to examine nurses' perceptions of their autonomy in wound management in a Maltese state-owned general hospital. A self-administered questionnaire designed by the researcher was delivered to twenty female nurses in a general medical and a surgical ward. The findings suggest that approximately half of the respondents perceive nurses in Malta as autonomous in wound care and half do not. However, the majority of respondents agreed that nurses in Malta are not leaders in wound management and are not allowed to choose wound care products since they are dominated by the medical profession. The respondents also appeared to be eager to achieve more autonomy in wound care, however at the same time do not want to lead in wound management. A number of factors were identified as affecting nurse autonomy in wound care including knowledge, working relationships, work overload, assertiveness, confidence, experience and research. Recommendations based on the findings include promoting a collaborative approach to wound care and encouraging research based practice. Moreover, suggestions for further research include the use of participant observational and larger scale studies to examine actual nurse autonomy as opposed to perceived nurse autonomy and to increase generalisability of the findings. Description: B.SC.(HONS)NURSING 2002-01-01T00:00:00Z