Importance Of Effective Communication With Patients In A Healthcare Setting

IntroductionThis paper will address the importance of communicating effectively in a healthcare setting. It is extremely important that physicians and all medical staff communicate with patients. Communication is how medical staff, physicians and patients find out vital information.The medical staff learns information about the patient and the reason for the visit. The physician learns more about the patient through conversation and addresses the reason for the visit. The patient learns information about the issues that are going on with him or her and how to go about solving the issues.This can be considered a type of ongoing chain reaction. Everyone should communicate effectively with one another because without proper communication, we do not gain any knowledge. Healthcare facilities can use improvement in the communications area.There are ways to implement effective communication skills. Communication is a key factor in the healthcare field. Clinical or medical staff and physicia ns should communicate more effectively with patients. Having poor communication skills can cause serious issues between health care staff and providers.â€Å"Poor communication skills within a health care setting can result in misunderstanding and faulty decisions that could adversely affect a patient’s health and well-being† (Ponte 2011). Poor Communication [Communication failure is a huge contributor in clinical outcomes.A major part of information flow comes from communication between health care workers. Communication errors were found to be the main cause of hospital deaths. Communication infrastructure influences communication behavior within organizations.Interruptive communication is one of the negative behaviors observed in poor communication (Parker & Coiera 2000). Poor communication can be turned into a positive behavior by adopting steps to communicate more effectively.Poor communications can affect a patient’s health and well-being. Poor communicati on can also lead to provider and patient frustration. Having strong communication skills is a must for new practitioners. Written words are a source of poor communication. Getting help from mentors about how to be a good communicator would be a great idea (Ponte 2011).Keeping a patient from becoming frustrated with a physician or a medical staff member can be handled properly if everyone communicates effectively with one another. When explaining things to a patient, it is best to make sure the patient fully understands everything.There are additional steps one can take to help a patient understand and that could be as simple as giving out a brochure or pamphlet about the issue(s) or even giving the patient printed out documents that the patient can read. Also, addressing any questions and concerns the patient may have can be a type of effective communication.Patient satisfaction can go a long way and if the patient is satisfied then the chances of that patient returning is high. ] C ommunication Importance [The article from http://www. apa. org tells why it is so important for patients to communicate with physicians.Sometimes patients hold back from asking questions. Also, some feel intimidated so therefore they don’t really talk with the physician. Sharing information is an important component of health care. Research indicates that effective communication is tied to positive medical outcomes (Weir 2012).Some patients may be a little shy to talk with the physician about health concerns. If proper communication skills are used then the physician may be able to communicate with the patient to get him or her to open up and talk about the health problems.Gaining the sense of trust can help make a patient feel more comfortable. In order to determine what may be going on with your body you need to be able to communicate with the physician. The article from the Journal of the American Medical Association tells how some patients experience issues with physician s not listening because they are often too busy.Effective communication with patients can take time, but it also requires that physicians take the time to listen closely to each patient. Some medical schools and residency programs don’t provide enough education about effective communication skills.However, medical education on student and residency levels requires major efforts to enhance communication skills while in school. Even though science and technology has advanced over the past few decades the best medical care consists of knowledge in science and communication skills (Levinson & Pizzo 2011).Not only is communication important, listening is important as well. One must first listen in order to communicate effectively with a patient about any issues or concerns. â€Å"But the core skill of good communication is listening† (Handzo 2012).Some physicians do make you feel like they are rushing you to leave the office and some act like they are in a hurry for somethi ng more important. No one wants to go to a doctor's office or a hospital to receive care and feel like they were just there for nothing. Making a patient feel important and respected should be a priority.Listening and Understanding [Communication is key, but sometimes easier said than done. Using words that patients understand is a big deal. You want to make sure to use words a patient can understand so that they actually do fully understand what you are saying.Listening is a core skill for good communication, but good listening is about having a good understanding. Patients want to be listened to and most of all respected (Handzo 2012). Patients are more likely to understand their health problems if they can understand their doctors.A physician’s relationship with each patient is built on effective communication (Travaline, Ruchinskas, and D’Alonzo 2005). Verbal and nonverbal communication are both necessary in health care. A physician who can effectively communicate bad news with a patient in a compassionate manner will be able to improve and strengthen their patient-physician relationship.It is important for a physician to be able to communicate both positive and negative news with a patient (Travaline, Ruchinskas, and D’Alonzo 2005). Conclusion [In conclusion, communication is very important.Listening is also important because you must listen in order to communicate. In healthcare, communication plays a major role. Everyone, including medical staff, physicians and patients must communicate effectively with one another.Poor communication can create errors and misunderstanding. Having a good understanding about your health is important. If a patient does not fully understand something, there are ways to help them understand such giving the patient a pamphlet that covers more information about the issue(s) he or she is having. Effective communication can go a long way in the healthcare field.

Are we too dependent on computers? Essay

When we talk about computers, people often relate computers with modern technologies. Computer is a tool that helps us make things in our life easier. People use computers in business, public services, educations, even entertainment. Our daily activities are more and more based closely on the working of computer. Almost everything we do is affected by modern technology and computers. I would say that I agree that people nowadays depend on computers too much. Firstly, computers controlled cars, planes, ships and other vehicles, so that we can travel safely. Computer is the backbone of most institutions and colleges nowadays. Computer is a popular device among college students. Students get their assignments done using computer. It is convenient for them to search for information using computer or through online library rather than going to library. They save their files in the computer and use computer to make their presentation. Lecturers and students prefer to use computer to work on assignments if it relates to paper work. Moreover, there are plenty students use their computer to take courses and study online. Computer is a convenient device for students. Speaking of health systems, many hospitals and medical offices use computer to store all the patients’ data. It is easy to keep track and is accessible. Medical officer also store important works that are needed to be recorded and stored for health purpose in the computers. The use of computers is very important even in medical field. More and more hospitals use computers to store patients’ data instead of using paper. It will be messy and a lot of paperwork needed to be done if hospitals didn’t use computers. It will also pollute the environments that so many paper works needed to be stored. All the mental work that we need to do can be done by computer or calculator. It would be almost impossible to calculate a huge statistic data w ithout using a calculator. Computers play an important role in human life. Computers allow office workers to work from home too. Computers help us to keep in touch with friends or families that live too far away to visit. We are also exposed to information and knowledge. We can release our stress by playing the computer games when we come home from work or school. People have increasingly relied on computers nowadays. Moreover, people tend to become lazy to think with presence of computer and technology. Most people rely on computers too much will make them forget their own strengths. People are concerned that vital skills can be lost by next generations as computer technology slowly replaces the traditional ways of working. However, computer affects human health if human spend most of their time facing the computer. When we are asked whether we face the computer most of the time, most of us choose to deny or ignore it because we are scared to admit it. Denial or ignorance is a type of resistance. In a research, people are highly exposed to health risks as they spend most of their time sitting in front of the computers to get their work done. We will have eye pain and backache if we face the computer over a long period. We will also face tired eyes, dizziness and other symptoms. This will also affect other parts of our body, such as brain, neck and fingers. We should not deny or ignore these health symptoms as it could affect our life. Let’s imagine if one day, your computer breakdown, will your life in a mess? People work and do their jobs using computers. People save all their documents in their computers as they think that computer is the safest place to keep documents. Entrepreneurs run their business using computers. However, there is a possibility that the computer will breakdown. A serious chaos will happen. Once the computer system fails to operate, people really can’t do anything. People will just sit down and wait for the engineer to repair it. The business will also be affected. In serious scenario, the entrepreneurs will lose millions of business and money. Although it is said that people fall into the fallacy of slippery slope, break down of computer systems really happen in real life. For example in May 15, 2011, Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange (KLSE) experienced a breakdown in computer systems. The stock exchange came to a standstill for about 5 hours. Most of us also have the misconception that we are in control. Actually we are not. Nobody knows what is going to happen in the future. We can’t really control the computer systems but we can try our best to make sure that computer systems work smoothly. As far as I concerned, computer is a great invention and it is useful to human life. It should be impossible to live without computer as we get too much used of computers nowadays. However, we should use it wisely. We know the fact that the more we rely on computer, the more we will lose in our life. So, we should also find ways to make our dependence on computers less dangerous to us, so that we will not rely on computer completely.

Creation Myth, Religious and Cultural Traditions of Anishinaabe People Essay

Creation Myth, Religious and Cultural Traditions of Anishinaabe People - Essay Example His book the Mishomis Book informs readers of the origin of man and his indigenous language. As a way of validating Benton-Banai’s claims, it is important to compare his claims with the general view of the creation theory, cultural, and religious practices of this unique group. Thus, a detailed comparison shows various similarities and differences in the two accounts. The general view of the Anishinaabe tribe reveals this group of people believe in the existence of a Supreme Being. According to Kulnieks, Longboat, and Young (2013), their creator existed long before the creation of the planet earth. Consequently, He is responsible for creating the earth and all existing human beings and animals. In addition, the Supreme Being created man on the last day. He gave man responsibility to name animals and plants in his native language that is the Anishinaabemowin. Besides, the man had no existing family and community members at that particular time. The creator, Ghizemanidoo, particularly named man Nanabozho. Furthermore, the creator said the name was important and a sign of unity in the community. As a result, it became part of the daily greeting of the community members. Both the general view and Mishomis Book have numerous similarities concerning creation story and religious belief and practices of the Anishinaabe community. Both argue that the Anishinaabe people believe in a supreme and almighty being. This group of people have religious traditions and believes in a creator. They respect and obey their creators’ orders and rules. According to Benton-Banai (2010), the Anishinaabe people have a creator who is their source of life. The creator not only gives them life but also gives them the responsibility to name all animals in the world. In addition, their creator gives a responsibility to preserve and protect animals and plants on earth. This point is also supported by the general people`s view of this tribe.  

Service Contracting Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Service Contracting - Essay Example 2. Feasibility study is essential in evaluating the practicality of a project. Normally, when services providers are solicited through an RFP (request for proposal), a solicited proposal is developed and feasibility analysis is carried out in order to assess the associated costs, risks and timelines. Feasibility analyses help in mitigating the risks and provide a cost-effective way for service providers to proceed with the project. 3. Contractor selection occurs on the basis of the submitted proposals. The solicitation contains the criteria for selection of the contractor in addition to other instructions relating to the evaluation process (Le Roux, 2007). The exact proposal evaluation process for awarding of contract varies. However, contract awarding and the proposal evaluation processes are prone to biases such as lack of competition, less number of submitted proposals, deviation from the company’s policies, and lack of compliance. Manny issues stem from lack of competition itself, for example, monopolistic pricing. 4. The best practice is to ensure that the selected contractor possesses the ability to meet the needs of the project. All written contracts should be formally documented and the specifications and requirements must be clearly defined beforehand. In addition, there must be a sufficient level of completion, that is, there must be a sufficient number of proposals received before the contract is awarded (Savas. 2005). If not, a sole source justification must be provided making a case for the only supplier. Auditing of the evaluation process and contract awarding must be carried out in order to ensure compliance with the policies in addition to contract monitoring. 5. Contract monitoring allows the contractors to be looked out for their compliance with the ethical standards and policies. In case of any deviations, law enforcement agencies as well as the

Leadership theory skills approach Research Paper

Leadership theory skills approach - Research Paper Example What particular skills do effective leaders possess? Why do some leaders possess remarkable problem-solving skills while others do not? (Northouse, 2009, 47) In general, the researchers tried to find out the leadership aspects that bring about commendable performance in real-world organizations. Derived from the wide-ranging findings of the research, Mumford and associates (2000) developed a skill-oriented leadership approach. The approach is defined as a capability framework because it focuses on the correlation between the skills and knowledge of a leader and his/her actual performance. Leadership skills can be learned or acquired over time through practice, experience, and training (Northouse, 2009; Rowe & Guerrero, 2010). Not like the ‘great man’ theory, which states that leadership is limited to a talented and exceptional few, the skills model argues that most individuals have the potential to become great leaders. If individuals are able to learn or acquire positive outcomes from their experiences, they can develop leadership skills (Northouse, 2009, 47-48). Instead of highlighting the behavior or actions of leaders, the skills model views leadership as the skills and knowledge that facilitate successful leadership. The leadership skills approach resembles the trait model, but rather than placing emphasis on the traits of a leader, leader skills are regarded to be the most important ingredient for successful leadership. The leadership skills approach focuses on the behavior of the leader. Nevertheless, the skills approach argues that leadership behavior cannot be separated from its social setting (Daft, 2008). Furthermore, the skills approach implies that leadership capabilities are enhanced through experience. Knowledge is the core leadership capability that is talked about in skills theory (Lussier &

Proposal Letter Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 2

Proposal Letter - Essay Example As a result, both the instructors and students face insurmountable difficulties (Quian 2204-2205). Although English is taught from the primary level, I believe mastery of the language requires patience and practice. The students have a feeling that achieving fluency for an international language is impossible. Their main goal of learning the language is passing exams while disregarding its value in the learning process, as well as, dealing with life issues. I also believe that besides difficulties in speaking fluent English, foreign students can hardly write a complete sentence without making a grammatical mistake. There seems to be no appropriate environment for them to thrive. They encounter a new society and culture that hinders their success (Herold 124). When compared to the native students, the internationals require extra time to learn and comprehend a foreign language. In an effort to unravel to this mystery, the essay will investigate the difficulties faced by foreign students in learning a second language. It will also provide several useful strategies to second language learners and instructors. It will conclude by calling for researchers to give attention to the problem. All readers, as well as, well wishers can contribute their views on the

Bicycling Transportation in LA Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Bicycling Transportation in LA - Research Paper Example s Angeles being a car-centric region, LACBC has become one of the bicycle advocacy non-profit organizations that are most wide-reaching and innovative in the country (Smart 190). The members of the organization have played a key role in helping the growth of cycling movements in Los Angeles. The vision of the organization is on the improvement of the existing environment in Los Angeles for the purpose of enabling safe navigation of the Los Angeles County streets for all the cyclists including the recreational, commuter, women, families and the low-income citizens. The organization accomplishes its vision in the campaigns through the assistance of the strong volunteer network from the members, and it has increased the infrastructure of the bicycle throughout the eighty-eight cities in the county. The mission of the LACBC is to build a more bike-able and better Los Angeles by bringing the various communities together with the aim of improving the quality of life in the communities. Its vision entails making Los Angeles a good place for the day by day bicycling throughout the year. People live in more vibrant, healthier communities where there is plenty of clean air and the streets both safer and quieter for everyone. More families, children, and women ride their bikes and are thankful for the opportunities they have to enjoy their city and their neighborhoods (Shi 130). All people, from various origins and cultures, are enabled to ride their bikes safely and conveniently everywhere. Above all, LACBC is bestowed with the responsibility of making policies for the bicycling events. While carrying out its duties of policy making, it encourages installation of parking lots for bicycles at locations that are visible and with high traffic at all County, State, and Federal facilities found within Los Angeles City, for the purpose of meeting or exceeding the bicycle parking standards in the City. The organization also conducts outreach to identify the needs and solutions

Reducing the Risks of Petrochemical Companies Essay

Reducing the Risks of Petrochemical Companies - Essay Example II. Description of the Problem In describing the problem, three risks of petrochemical companies have been recognized, namely, (1) ergonomic harms, (2) fires, and (3) environment contamination. First, ergonomics denotes the interface between human beings and the device and machine in the workplace. Workers in petrochemical companies are highly exposed to ergonomic harms, such as musculoskeletal disorders (common for workers of drilling companies), or diseases caused by toxic fumes or substances. The petrochemical accident in Bhopal, India will be the example that will be used for ergonomic harms. Second, petrochemical companies are also prone to accidental fires or explosions due to their handling of fuels, such as hydrocarbons. Good examples for this category are the fires and explosion in Texas and Louisiana. Third, petrochemical companies carry with it several environmental hazards, just like in China and Argentina wherein massive environmental catastrophes have brought about a cy cle of damages to the health of the local population. Some of the examples that will be used in this category are the oil spills in Alaska and Gulf of Mexico. ... Generating and using such chemicals requires handling harmful substances and massive volumes of energy. Due to these circumstances, when there is an accident at a petrochemical plant, it can create disastrous effects III. Importance/Significance of Inquiry Petrochemical companies are currently an interesting issue for accident research. The petrochemical industry is somewhat rigidly connected, and has numerous intricately interactive elements. This research is interested in petrochemical companies because they demonstrate the existence of accidents in an established, efficient, modernized industry that has a significant financial interest to mitigate accidents. According to some studies, in petrochemical companies, with efficient management, advanced technologies, and powerful motivations to avoid disasters, the existence of accidents must indicate a phenomenon inherent to the mechanisms themselves (Galambos et al. 2007). In other words, petrochemical accidents are most probably inte rnally caused. Therefore, finding out these internal causes to ergonomic harm, fires/explosions, and environmental contamination will almost certainly help in developing the best solutions to reduce the potential hazards in petrochemical companies. Therefore, the problem is important to solve because the Increasing growth of the petrochemical companies incidents in our world in the past two decades. IV. Relevance Statement The research involved with this proposal is socially and culturally important because petrochemical companies, which before were viewed as signs of success and affluence became associated with environmental degradation, injuries, casualties, and

Financial Management of financial statements Essay

Financial Management of financial statements - Essay Example Micro Chip Computer Corporation's net sales target for 2005 is $9,168 which is 10% higher than what is generated in 2004. This sales budget seems reasonable based on the impressive growth posted by the company in 2004. The sales target of $9,168 is lower than the five year average of $9,330. If the company will continue to recovery from the two-year slump, 10% even seems to be a very conservative target. It should be noted that the pre-2002 net sales reached almost $12,000. It is not impossible that the company can generate this income again. Question 1.Use the Percentage Sales Method and a 20% increase in sales to forecast Micro Chip's Consolidated Statement of Operations for the period September 26, 2004 through September 25, 2005. Assume a 15% tax rate and restructuring costs of 2% of the new sales figure. Micro Chip Computer Corporation forecasts that its sales will increase by 20% from the current level. This will result to $10,000.80 gross revenue in the following period. Since the percentage sales method is used to compute the other components of the financial statement, it is assumed that the company will incur the same expenses in proportion to sales. For example, cost of sales was previously 65.49% of total sales. In the computation for the following year, it was also assumed that the company is going to spend 65.49% of its income in cost of sales. It can be seen that using the percentage sales method lead to some unreasonable assumptions. For one, this method assumes that expenses are directly related to the level of sales. This might seem appropriate for a merchandising firm as the cost of goods sold often bloats with sales revenue. However, it doesn't take into account the possible changes in costs. Also, it should be noted that some of the company's costs does not often vary with sales. Fixed cost like selling, general, and administrative expenses are often fixed regardless of sales level. Part B ABC Fitness Activity ratios indicate how well a company manages to turn its resources into cash, revenue or profit. In the case of ABC Fitness, three significant ratios are computed to measure its relative efficiency. The following table shows the average collection period, inventory turnover, and total assets turnover of the business organization. ABC Fitness has an average collection period of 10 days. Its inventory turnover is 10.23 while assets produced 1.79 times revenue. Average Collection Period = Current Accounts Receivables/Average Daily Sales, where Average Daily Sales = Annual Sales/360 days = $2, 004, 016 / 360 days = $5, 560/days Average Collection Period =$55, 514 / $5,560/days =9.98 or 10 days Inventory Turnover = Cost of Goods Sold / Average Inventory = $1, 446, 733 / $141, 350 = 10.23 Total Asset Turnover = Sales / Total Assets = $2, 00

A distinctive feature of youth justice policy in the late twentieth Essay

A distinctive feature of youth justice policy in the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries is the extent to which it is dominated by the politics of - Essay Example , it is impossible to rest on the past policies and has become absolutely important for government to continuously evolve better policies for the betterment of youth, and hence, the society. Youth offence has become an inglorious chapter that keeps threatening present and future both. The statement that youth policies and programmes of recent years are dominated by politics of fear is right. There are many kinds of fears in society, community, country, political circles, families and schools which are connected with youth offending and they are not without historical evidence. Every country has to develop politics of fear because youth could be destructive if not guided properly. This study has tried to locate the politics of fear in the connected policies and explore the causes leading to youth delinquency. In recent years, there has been an enormous increase in crime rate of youth, and sociologists are quick to offer reasons and causes3. Causes of youth crime, could be anything between psychological, emotional, and behavioural. Sometimes there need not be reality in it. Youth minds are absolutely fertile in imagination and most of the grievances are imagined, as we saw recently with the killer of Virginia Tech. Youth also have a problem of blaming parents, schools, teachers, governments, entire system and the entire world, but never themselves. Nevertheless, there is a psychologically affected group, which is rather rare, that blames themselves for everything, and they are not in majority. These are the people more prone to guilt and self-harming and might become suicidal. They are small in number. The usual youth offender is belligerent, fighting all alone against the entire world, teaching them a lesson, or perishing in the effort. This is the Chivalrous martyr youth offender who ha s a certain nobility in him and need not be a major threat to society if guided properly. Ordinary offender is more interested in crime, advantage, getting rich, rolling in money,

Wedding of Mary and Joseph Essay Example for Free

Wedding of Mary and Joseph Essay Produced in the late seventeenth century, Wedding of Mary and Joseph is Peruvian painting of an unknown artist. An oil painting on canvas, Wedding of Mary and Joseph depicts the couple getting married before the high priest who is clothed in a â€Å"richly flower-patterned hooded mantle (â€Å"Wedding of Mary and Joseph†). † There are clergymen assisting the high priest. Joseph is carrying his staff which has flowers at the top. Moreover, both the bride and bridegroom have golden halos. Ann, the mother of Mary stands right behind the bride. By Ann’s side is a suitor of Mary who has been rejected by God’s command. The suitor is seen breaking his staff, which has not flowered like the staff of Joseph (â€Å"Wedding of Mary and Joseph†). The painting is enriched by â€Å"gold stamping,† which â€Å"unifies the composition (â€Å"Wedding of Mary and Joseph†). † There are Peruvian flowers as well as long tailed bird scattered on the ground where Mary and Joseph stand. This transfers the scene of the Bible from the Holy Land to Peru (â€Å"Wedding of Mary and Joseph†). Furthermore, it describes an important movement in Peruvian art history by the name of Cusco School (Bennett). Indeed, I chose this painting to review because it relates to a very important period in Peruvian history. Spanish colonization had not only managed to transfer the Spanish Inquisition to the Spanish territories around the globe, but also brought European art into Peru (Bennett). The Spanish Inquisition had claimed many lives in Europe. In Peru, the Inquisition had centered on the discovery of people who were Jews by birth, but had claimed to have converted to Christianity. These people were suspected to have gone back from Catholicism to Judaism. Thus, the Peruvian Inquisition was about punishing the Jews or converted Catholics for apostasy (Lea). The Peruvian Inquisition had taken place in the seventeenth century. Seeing that the sociopolitical environment of Peru revolved around religious affairs at the time, it is not surprising that the Christian, Peruvian artists started a new art movement – the Cusco School – to create religious art in particular (Bennett). As a matter of fact, the Wedding of Mary and Joseph is a perfect example of Cusco art. The Cusco School happens to be the largest movement of art in the Peruvian art history. The movement was represented by â€Å"mestizo painters and sculptors who produced countless depictions of religious figures adorned in gold (Bennett). † The Spanish colonizers had used religious art to teach Christianity to the New World. Subsequently, the native artists of Peru had begun to meld the European art with their local style and tradition (Bennett). So, while the figures of Mary and Joseph in the Peruvian painting reveal the European, Christian influence on the Peruvian artist; the flowers and long tailed birds of Peru scattered on the ground show that the artist continues to love his land despite the colonization. The golden halos of the bride and the bridegroom are, of course, the signature of the Cusco School. Hence, the painting, Wedding of Mary and Joseph, reveals itself as an excellent tool to understand the culture of Peru with respect to Spanish colonization. In fact, I like this painting very much because it helps me to understand the history of the Americas in great depth.Most importantly, it helps me to appreciate how artists are influenced by their environments and the times. Works Cited Bennett, Caroline. â€Å"Art and Architecture. † Viva Travel Guides. 3 Dec 2007. http://www. vivatravelguides. com/south-america/peru/peru-overview/art-and-architecture/. Lea, Henry C. â€Å"Inquisition in 17th Century Peru: Cases of Portuguese Judaizers. † Modern History Sourcebook. 3 Dec 2007. http://www. fordham. edu/halsall/mod/17c-lea-limainquis. html. â€Å"Wedding of Mary and Joseph. † Brooklyn Museum. 3 Dec 2007. http://www. brooklynmuseum. org/research/luce/object. php? id=49368.

Impact Of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Education Use Of Difibrillator Nursing Essay

Impact Of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Education Use Of Difibrillator Nursing Essay Poor knowledge and skill retention following AED and CPR training for nursing and other medical staff has been observed. Resulting of the increasing of the mortality rate CPR and AED training are important for nursing staff and is important as the nurses often are the first witness for the victim with cardiac arrest in hospital setting. The outcome of teaching approach is necessary to improve the knowledge and skill of the nurses and other medical team that increase the survival rate. Aim The aim of this literature review was to describe teaching approaches for cardiopulmonary resuscitation education in relation to acquired skills and knowledge in the use of an automated external defibrillation in a cardiac arrest situation in a clinical setting. Method The authors have selected a literature review for this study and key word that used are Cardiopulmonary resuscitation and education, nursing, continuing, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, nursing skill and education and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Papers published two month ago since 04-2011 from many sources, such as books and Pubmed database including 10 years period. Those published paper in English language which covers strategies to improve the knowledge and skills of the nurses and other medical staff in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and automated external defibrillation using. In addition manual research has been used to get more information. Result There are many different teaching approaches can be used in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and automated external defibrillation training such as ; Digital Video Disc without manikin, DVD with manikin with scenario, peer tuition and instructor facilitated methods which the best method. The quality of education in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and automated external defibrillation training can be affected by the type of teaching approach which has been used. The education and refreshment of cardiopulmonary resuscitation and automated external defibrillation training can enhance skill and knowledge of nursing staff and give self confidence during resuscitation time and in using automated external defibrillation, which can lead to increase the survival rate and improve the quality of patients life. Conclusion Nurses in hospital setting who seldom encounter cardiac arrest, should received automated external defibrillation and cardiopulmonary resuscitation training to avoid time delays in resuscitation. Staff should be evaluated by using manikin with feedback system and expert instructors to ensure the quality f chest compression are satisfied at the time of training. The availability of resuscitation training equipment in unit and ward can enhance the nursing staff for self education and refresh their skill and knowledge. INTRODUCTION Each year in United States of America there are 325,000 victims of sudden cardiac arrest. The mortality rates due to cardiac arrest are frequently observed in most of emergency situation, which is most often the result of ventricular tachycardia (VT) according to Mosesso, Shapiro, Stein, Burkett, Wang (2009). Moreover, cardiovascular attacks cause one third of all deaths in the world today (Lindstrand, Bergstrà ¶m, Rosling, Rubenson, Stenson Tylleskà ¤r, 2010). The nursing staffs are often the first witness for cardiac arrest in a hospital setting (Dwyer, Mosel, 2002; Gombotz, Weh, Mitterndorfer Rehak, 2006). Moreover, the nurses are more efficient in training of automated external defibrillation (AED) as stated by Xanthos et al.2009. Bardy et al (2008) point out that due to the effectiveness of automated external defibrillation, it becomes recommended in public places such as; public places are: airports, schools, restaurants, planes, and crowded places. Furthermore they recommend that the AED machine is red in color with instructions for use. In spite of the effectiveness of AED in cardiac patients, a better understanding and knowledge about the use of AEDs is required (Hancock, Roebuck, Farrer Campbell, 2006; Martinez-Rubio, et al.2003).Therefore, the authors` see a need to explore how Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) education can enhance and improve nursing skills and knowledge in the use of AED in order to reduce mortality rate in cardiac patients. BACKGROUND Automated external defibrillation www.priceit.in AED is an electronic devise which has two paddles; sternum and apex which can help to deliver the shock to the heart of the patient. This machine has been created and upgraded to convert the VT and Ventricular fibrillation (VF) to sinus normal heart rhythms, which are the most emergency situation that needs immediate medical intervention (Anas, Lee, Hasan, 2010). Moreover AED may be used in hospital setting or out of the hospital setting (Nettina, 2001). Winkle (2010) stated that around 250 000 victims are dying in United States of America every year caused by cardiac arrest 40% are resulting of VF.Therefore medical staff must be aware ,trained in using AED to enhance the quality of life of cardiac arrest patient. However, using this machine needs medical education and knowledge as stated by (Ammirati et al.2011).As mentioned above Brown, Rittenberger, Ammon, Harrington Guyette (2010) stated AED can have affect only in shockable rhythms like VF. Types of automated external defibrillation There are two types of AED: Monophesic which gives (360 joules) and the secound type is Biphasic which gives 150-200 joules (Sraj, 2005). The different between the two types: according to (Sraj, 2005): Feature Monophesic Biphasic Direction of the current Moves in one direction only from paddle Moves in both direction (first positive direction then in milliseconds in a negative direction Joules Form 360 150 (Some machines can go up 200) Potential myocardial damage More damaging less damaging Efficacy 93% in laboratory trails 99% in laboratory trails Ventricular tachycardia (VT) Ventricular tachycardia is a heart rhythm described as a run of three or more premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) (Lewis, Heitkemper, Dirksen, OBrien Bucher, 2007, p. 854). VT clinical association VT occurs with Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), cardiomyopathy, significant electrolyte imbalance, mitral valve prolapse, long QT syndrome, some medicine toxicity like digitalis and central nervous system disease. Furthermore, this type of dysrhythmia can be notice in non cardiac patients (Lewis et al, 2007). VT clinical significance Patient with VT may be found with pulse or pulseless and VT if persistent can lead to decrease in Carbon monoxide (CO) due to decreasing of ventricular filling times and loss of atrial contraction. All this finding can lead to several complications which include; hypotension, pulmonary edema, cerebral blood flow will decrease and cardiopulmonary arrest (Lewis et al, 2007). VT treatment This type of dysrhythmia can be treated simply if the causes identified like; electrolyte imbalance and ischemia. If the VT is monomorphic (patient has appearance of all the beats match each other in each lead of a surface electrocardiogram) and patient with pulse, Procaimade, Sotalol, Amiodarone or Lidocaine Intravenous injection (IV) can be used. If the patient in polymorphic (has beat-to-beat variations in morphology) VT with prolonged baseline QT interval Magnesium, Isoprterenol, Lidocaine Intravenous injection can be administer. If the patient has no pulse it must be taken in high priority level emergency case, in this condition CPR and defibrillation are the first line if treatment (Lewis et al, 2007). Ventricular fibrillation (VF) Ventricular fibrillation is described as a heart rhythm witha severe derangement of the rhythm characterized on electrocardiogram (ECG) by irregular undulation of varying shapes and amplitude (Lewis et al., 2007, p. 855). VF clinical association VF can occur in acute myocardial infarction (MI), myocardial ischemic disease like Coronary Artery Disease and cardiomyopathy. Furthermore this type of abnormal heart rhythm can be associated with coronary reperfusion after fibrinolytic therapy. Other VF clinical associations are like electric shock, hypekalemia, drug toxicity and acidosis (Lewis et al, 2007). VF clinical significance Patient with VF can be found unconscious, pulseless and apneic condition and if this type of dysrhythmia not treated immediately and rapidly patient will die (Lewis et al, 2007). VF treatment VF is life-threatening condition and the best treatment for this dysrhythmia is the CPR and Advance Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) with using defibrillation immediately if available (Lewis et al, 2007). Cardiac arrest It is the sudden loss heart function either the victim is diagnosed as a heart disease or not, which occur within minutes after symptoms appear. (American Heart.org.2011). Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) Cardiopulmonary resuscitation is a combination of oral resuscitation (mouth-to-mouth breathing), which supplies oxygen to the lungs, and external cardiac massage (chest compression), which is intended to normalize cardiac function and blood circulation(Kozier, Erb, Snyder Berman, 2008, P.1419). American Heart Association (2011) has emphasized the updated CPR guidelines for the chest compression rate is rate is 100 compressions per-minute. Defibrillation It is a process of administering the electrical shock to an individual heart for stop any abnormality heart impulse such For VT and restore the normal heart rhythm (Kozier, Erb, Snyder Berman, 2008). Public Access Defibrillation (PAD) It is a program that improves the automated external defibrillator in public facilities (Federal occupational health,2010). Cardiopulmonary resuscitation / automated external defibrillation provider An employee, who has finished or completed training in CPR, in addition has knowledge and understands an AED operation (Sraj, 2005). Chain of survival It is that access which concentrates on the increasing of the survival chance .according to these components: Early access to care (local emergency medical system number) Early CPR. Early defibrillation. Early advance of care. www.circ.ahajournals.org Sequence of actions when nursehealth provider is using an automated external defibrillator These procedures should be following when the patientvictim is unconscious or not breathing Start with calling for help then start with CPR if the AED not available immediately. 1-When the AED arrives: Continue CPR until the AED is switched on in case of more than one rescuer. If you are alone stop CPR and switch on the AED. Follow the voice instruction. Pads attaching to the patientvictim chest (the positive pad is placed on the patientsvictims left chest below the nipple, whereas the negative pads is placed on the victimspatients right upper chest above the nipple to the right from patient s perspective of the sternum). Be sure that no body touches the patientvictim during the AEDis analyzing the rhythm. 2-When the shock is needed: . Be sure that nobody is touching the patientvictim. Push the shock button as instruction Follow the voice instruction. 3-When no shock is needed: Continue CPR using a ratio of 30 compression to 2 rescue breathes Follow the voice instruction. Doing these procedures till the patient starts to regaining consciousness signs such as coughing, movement and breathing or you become tired (Nettina, 2001; Sraj, 2005). Precautions in the use of automated external defibrillation Sraj (2005) has emphasized several precautions which must be taken into consideration by the AEDs operator before using it. Furthermore, these precautions are very important in keeping the operator and the patient in a safe and secure environment. These precautions are; Unresponsiveness The rescuer should check the patients level of consciousness, pulse and any signs of life like moving or coughing. This step is very important step to avoid any problems or misusing of AED. Wet chest Due to water and sweat AED might not be very effective. So In order to get defibrillations effectiveness use the piece of cloth which is kept in the AED kit to dry the chest Moving vehicle Using AED devise needs special care especially during the transportation of the patient. In case of using moving vehicle it may affect AEDs analyzing the heart rhythm which can lead to wrong analysis. Flammable materials Try to avoid using any flammable materials like alcohol and stop any flammable gases like oxygen .using these flammable materials can make fire due to the expected spark from the shock. Chest patches Be close to the patient and scan for any nitroglycerine patches and remove it right away before attaching the AEDs paddles. These patches can make burn to the patients chest. Metal surface Avoid using the metal or any electric conductive surface because the ability of transmitting the shock to the rescuers or any persons nearby. Pacemaker The rescuer should look to the patients chest closely and identify if this patient using pacemaker especially if its implanted one. Try to attach the paddles one to one and have inches distance from the pacemaker to avoid destroying the pacemakers batteries. Age consideration AED is not recommended to be used in children under age of 8 especially in unadjusted energy AEDs. Hands off The users during analyzing the heart rhythm must be hands off to avoid analyzing disturbance. Furthermore the users and any person nearby must be clear before delivering the shock avoiding the transmission of the shock to them. Wireless devices The nearby people they must not use their wireless devices like cell phone and especially during the analyzing heart rhythm and delivering shock process. These devices can cause trouble made by waves interference which may influence the analysis. Education in a clinical setting Education can be defined as a learning opportunity which is planned by an individual or a committee to reach a related objective (Rogers, 2002). One of the main differences between nurse education and education of children in school is, that nurse education is based upon the theory and practice of adult learning. Furthermore, there are different teaching strategies, some of these teaching strategies like; lectures method, (lecturers) are the main instrument in this method. Experiential learning depends on learning result from experience. Last method is pairs exercise in this method the group members are asked to from pairs then work together (Quinn Hughes, 2007). The coordinators and teachers must chose the best teaching strategy accordingly and provide good learning environment to achieve teaching program goals (Quinn Hughes, 2007). McEwen Willss, (2007) have referred to one of the grand theory which is Henderson theory. The Henderson theory is focusing on the important of education for medical team, patient and families that translate to practice and experience to improve the quality of care. If this research has been done in a clinical setting it can enhance the education. Categorization of learning theories McEwen Willss, (2007) have mentioned, that sometime it will come to the nurses mind a question why is it very important to be aware of about the process of learning and to understand learning theories. The importance of understanding learning theories is to describe the process used to get about changes in the way individuals understand information and skills or tasks. Moreover, Bigge Shermis (1999) categorized the learning theories to two categories which are; Behavioral learning theories Behavioral learning theories which depend on behavior response and ignore the feeling, thoughts and cognitive processes of the student. In addition, behavioral learning theories were the first widely used in education and these types of learning theories includes the work of Pavlov, Skinner and others. Furthermore, these types of learning theories persistent in the American educational system in 1959s and 1960s, as well as behavioral learning theories enhance the American educational system in 20th century (McEwen Willss, 2007). Cognitive learning theories Cognitive learning theories which based on the mental processes and activities which go within the student. These type of theories start to get wide thrust in 1960s. Moreover, Jean Piaget is the most important theorists in cognitive science which developed main components of his theory in 1920s (McEwen Willss, 2007). Teaching approach Teaching can be defined most of the time as the facilitation of learning and is passing on to intentional act of communicating information (Bastable, 2003). To achieve this, the teachers must know the learning methods and the individual needs and connect them to instruction (Forrest, 2004). Skill and knowledge Skill is defined as a goal-directed, well organized behavior that is acquired through practice and performed with economy of effort (Proctor Dutta, 1995, p.18). Knowledge can be defined, as set of organized statements of facts or ideas, presenting a reasoned judgment or an experimental result, which is transmitted to others through some communication medium in some systematic form (Bell, 1976, p.175). Up to date, there are a lot of research articles regarding cardiopulmonary resuscitation education and use of an automated external defibrillation. Therefore it is important to identify teaching approaches and critically evaluate the effect of the education on skills and knowledge. The effect of Cardiopulmonary resuscitation education on nurses skill and knowledge Kardong ,Oermann,Odom,Ha (2010) conclude in their article if the nurses used manikin with voice advisory they will be more competent than the nurses how used normal manikin without voice advisory. Furthermore the median number of chest compression before Basic Life Support course was three and so fast, but after BLS training increased to 13 as stated by (Mellor Woollard, 2010). In addition, Madden (2010) found in his study that, the nurses are more confidant and competent in case of cardiac emergency situation after CPR training. AIM The aim of this literature review was to describe teaching approaches for cardiopulmonary resuscitation education in relation to acquired skills and knowledge in the use of an automated external defibrillation in a cardiac arrest situation in a clinical setting. Research questions Which teaching approaches are used for cardiopulmonary resuscitation education when nurses use an automated external defibrillation in a cardiac arrest situation in a clinical setting? What effect has the cardiopulmonary resuscitation education on nurses` skills in their use of an automated external defibrillation in a cardiac arrest situation in a clinical setting? What effect has the cardiopulmonary resuscitation education on nurses` knowledge when an automated external defibrillation is used in a cardiac arrest situation in a clinical setting? METHOD The method chosen for this study is a literature review with a systematic approach. A literature review is a critical summary of research on a topic of interest, often prepared to put a research problem in context (Polit Beck, 2008, p.757). Literature search The literature search was carried out in PubMed which is a data base that anyone, anywhere in the world with internet access can search for journal articles and permanent resource regardless of your institutional affiliation (Polit Beck, 2008, p.757). MeSH terms are created by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). PubMed, works through searching in National Library of Medicine (NLMs) Web site, it helps the researchers to get full text of the articles from biomedical literature and helps to access further links to selected life sciences journals not in MEDLINE (National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2010). The search strategies were made by combining MeSH terms in PubMed and the result of this database search are shown in Table 1. In order to get relevant original articles to this literature review the authors have used Mesh term and limited the research which published in the last 10 years between 2001-2011, English human and any age. Table 1. Database search in Pubmed. Database Key word Identified articles (hits) Abstracts reviewed Articles examined Articles Included Date for search Pubmed 22032011 (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation[Mesh]) AND Education, Nursing, Continuing[Mesh] 41 41 23 4 Pubmed 22032011 Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation[Mesh] nursing skill 22 21 21 4 Pubmed 22032011 (education [Subheading]) AND Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation[Mesh] 725 500 30 11 Key words In this literature review the authors completed this research with the following key words; (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation AND Education, Nursing, Continuing[Mesh], Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation[Mesh] nursing skill and (Education [Subheading]) AND Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation[Mesh]. Identified original articles had to be published in peer-reviewed journals with an available abstract and had to focus on cardiopulmonary resuscitation education in relation to the use of an automated external defibrillation in a cardiac arrest situation in a clinical setting. Furthermore studies on adult, children eight years and older, SVT-VT patients and nurses were included. Non medical people and younger children (less than eight years), patients with pacemaker and refusal of informed consent were excluded, as were studies that did not involve health-care professionals in clinical settings. The primary search yielded 19 original articles of interest. In addition bibliographic searches revealed X articles. The articles are presented in the matrix (Appendix 1). The selected articles were assessed independently by the authors using Appendix 1Sophiahemmet University College classification guide of academic articles and studies regarding quality in both quantitative and qualitative research (Appendix 2). The studies were classified as Randomised controlled trial (RCT), Clinical controlled trial (CCT), Non- controlled study (P), Retrospective study (R) or Qualitative study (Q). Scientific quality of the studies was assessed on a three-grade scale:  high- (I), moderate- (II) or low- (III) quality. The authors` intended to work systematically by highlighting the similar words in the articles e.g., AED, clinical setting, skills and knowledge and discuss on regular basis to compare and discuss responses to the research questions. This literature review content the cardiopulmonary resuscitation education in relation to acquired skills and knowledge in the use of an automated external defibrillation in resuscitation situation in hospitals for most of the medical professionals like; doctors, technicians and nursing staff, but the authors will focus on nursing staff avoiding the vagueness of this literature review. Manual search can be defined as finding an original article which has been used in literature review (Polit Beck, 2008). ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS The ethical consideration which are so important in this literature review, include the authors must check who is the sponsor of the study because it includes the use of technology Furthermore the authors must assess if the participants in the reviewed studies were informed and consented before they participated, especially in case of patients are involved. Finally, the authors must clarify if these studies have got approval from the ethical committees (Spouse, 2003). RESULTS 19 primary published articles have been reviewed by the authors` in this study which have focused on Teaching approaches used for cardiopulmonary resuscitation education when nurses use an automated external defibrillation in a cardiac arrest situation in a clinical setting and the Effect of cardiopulmonary resuscitation education on nurses` skills knowledge in their use of an automated external defibrillation in a cardiac arrest situation in a clinical setting. Results from the studies are chosen which are relevant to this study`s aim and research questions The selected results from the primary published articles have been categorized under the following headings; Teaching approaches used for cardiopulmonary resuscitation education when nurses use an automated external defibrillation in a cardiac arrest situation in a clinical setting Perkins, Hulme, Bion, (2002) stated in their article that , peer tuition is the one type of teaching approach which depends on peer of tutors with exceptional teaching background and experience by lecture-led CPR training. However, it pointed out that, in spite of cardiopulmonary resuscitation and AED skills performance enhance with peer tuition, knowledge remained the same over the participants. The quality of performance can be improved with audible feedback system (Noordergraaf, et al.2006). Furthermore, if audible feedback system has been used there is significant improvement in skill acquisition and skill retention has been reported that is available in automated external defibrillation (Handley Handley, 2003) Szà ¶gedi , Zrà ­nyi , Betlehem, Ujvà ¡rinà © Tà ³th(2010) defined problem-based learning as one of learning methods which organize the knowledge in clinical setting ,strengthens to motivate the students to learn, enhances clinical reasoning skills, and improve self-directed and continues education. Furthermore they concluded this method is better and more efficient method form the traditional method which is class room during cardiopulmonary education. Moreover this method can enhance and improve the outcome of cardiopulmonary education which can lead to better understanding and skill demonstrating during resuscitation in clinical setting. The other teaching approach which has been emphasized by Bjà ¸rshol, Lindner, Sà ¸reide , Moen Sunde(2009) is manikin and 24-min video instruction during cardiopulmonary resuscitation training. They made a study on hospital employees by distributing 5118 personal manikins.3466 responded to the first questionnaire the result can be seen in table 2 Table 2. Questionnaire administered to all hospital employees before receiving their personal resuscitation manikin. Question Answer Number of replies What is your age? 43 ( ±11) years 3445 What is your gender? Female: 87% 3298 Male: 13% How long ago did you have training in basic life support (BLS)? 15 (8-60) months 3295 Never: 296 How well do you feel that you are trained in BLS (1-5, 1  =  very bad and 5  =  very good)? 3.1 ( ±1.0) 3412 Have you been in a situation where you needed skills in BLS, whether at work or not? Yes, at work: 1121 (33%) 3425 Yes, outside work: 363 (11%) No: 2071 (60%) Altogether 908 replied to second questionnaire which they attended the classroom training the result can seen in table 2 Table 2. Questionnaire to all hospital employees nine months after receiving their personal resuscitation manikin. Question Answer Number of replies Where did you perform the BLS training with your MiniAnne manikin? Hospital meeting room: 908 (65%) 1397 Own dept.: 366 (26%) At home: 73 (5%) Did not participate: 120 (9%) How long ago did you train with your MiniAnne manikin? 39 (26-48) weeks 1184 How well do you feel that you are trained in BLS (1-5, 1  =  very bad and 5  =  very good)? 3.8 ( ±0.8) 1333 How many persons, in addition to yourself, have trained on BLS with your MiniAnne manikin/self-instruction movie? 1 (0-3) 1165 Have you experienced any discomfort using the manikin? Yes: 49 (4%) 1272 No: 1223 (96%) After receiving the participants their personal manikin by six month the result is displayed in table 3 Table 3. Number of study subjects performing different BLS tasks before and six months after BLS training with a personal resuscitation manikin and video instruction (percentages in brackets). The number of correct chest compressions and mouth-to-mouth ventilations are measured for 2  min after initiation of BLS (interquartile range in brackets). Before BLS training, n  =  59 Six months after BLS training, n  =  39 P value Assessed responsiveness 42 (71) 34 (87) 0.02 Opened airways before assessing respiration 10 (17) 17 (44) 0.01 Assessed respiration 42 (71) 28 (72) 0.73 Pulse check 34 (58) 13 (33) 0.02 Called for help before starting BLS 45 (76) 32 (82) 0.61 Correct telephone number for EMS activation 56 (98) 39 (100) Ns Correct compression :ventilation (C:V) ratio 32 (54) 36 (98) Number of correct chest compressions 60 (5-102) 119 (75-150) Number of correct mouth-to-mouth ventilations 3 (0-8) 4 (0-7) 0.23 After finalizing the result by Bjà ¸rshol , Lindner , Sà ¸reide , Moen Sunde(2009) they came to that cardiopulmonary resuscitation training with manikin and video instruction benefit and improve the staff self-confidence and clinical basic life support skill. In other hands using assessment of cardiopulmonary resuscitation defibrillation (CPR-D) nursing skills and informing the leaders is necessary to give information for kind of education they need seems to improve resuscitation performance (Mà ¤kinen, et al.2007). Spearpoint, Gruber Brett (2009) mentioned in their article that permanent cardiopulmonary education as one of the teaching approaches. Moreover they stated that , The simplicity, continuous and quality of the education on basic life support program are affected on CPR performance and hospitals cardiac arrest through increasing patient discharge and decrease the cardiac arrest. There was study done by Moule , Albarran , Bessant , Brownfield Pollock (2008) in united kingdom comparing two teaching met

The Sydney Opera House Tourism Essay

The Sydney Opera House Tourism Essay The Sydney Opera House is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Australia and produces more than 7 million tourists/people visiting the venue each year. The Sydney Opera House offers a variety of difference shows and performances as well as guided tours, which enables each visitor to explore the vast creation inside one of the worlds most recognisable buildings. Around 1.2 million people attend the many performances and shows, and over 318, 000 people take part of the guided tours available. The Sydney Opera House is also proudly, State, National and World Heritage listed. However, there are many threats that this iconic Australian icon encounters, including such issues as, conservation, and climate change. These different issues threaten the iconic building for future patrons and therefore need to be taken care of in order to maintain Australias most recognisable and best known iconic landmark. The Sydney Opera House has become, with the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydneys best-known landmark and international symbol (The Sydney Opera House, 2011). It is known as one of Australias iconic monuments and is one of the busiest and well-known performing art centres not only Australia, but the world. Each year, the Sydney Opera House provides over 1500 varying performance each year. It is located on Bennelong Point in Sydney Harbour, in sight of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and is also situated on the northern eastern point of the Sydney central business district (CBD). The Sydney Opera House is a performing arts centre envisioned and largely created by a Danish architect, JÃ ¸rn Utzon. However, designed in 1959, it took a total of 14 years to be completed and was official opened in 1973 by Queen Elizabeth II. The Sydney Opera House, being a performing arts centre, promotes and supports a variety of performing arts companies, and with seven primary venues, offers audiences the opportunity to experience the very best of the many different art forms performed (Sydney Opera House 08/09 Annual Report, 2009). As well as the actual Sydney Opera House, visitors are able to experience the harbour side area that offers a variety of attractions such as shopping, dining and entertainment. An estimated 45 million people have attended over 100,000 the Sydney Opera House since its opening in 1973 as well as an estimated 100 million people visiting the actual site (Sydney Opera House 08/09 Annual Report, 2009). Regular tours of the construction are conducted daily and many paths and forms of transport was available, leading back towards the CBD through the Botanic Gardens, which is another well known tourist attraction in Sydney. The Sydney Opera House provides Sydney with a vast number of tourists domestically and internationally throughout the whole year, which provides great exposure to many restaurants, bars and hotels that surround the Harbour. Hotels like the Park Hyatt, Quay Grand Suites Sydney, the Shangri-La Hotel Sydney and The Four Seasons Hotel Sydney; all benefit from the exposure the Sydney Opera House gains from the estimated 7 million patrons visiting the area each year, creating a link with the hospitality and tourism industry of Sydney. SITUATION ANALYSIS Conservation The Sydney Opera House is a masterpiece of late modern architecture and an iconic building of the 20th century (The Sydney Opera House, 2011). It is nevertheless, an extraordinary building and not only the citys central cultural scene, but it is also admired world-wide and valued by the people of Australia. On the 28th June 2007, the Sydney Opera House was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Braithwaite, 2007). In 2003, Utzon was awarded the Pritzker Prize, an architects highest honour award, which stated; There is no doubt that the Sydney Opera House is his masterpiece. It is one of the great iconic buildings of the 20th century, an image of great beauty that has become known throughout the world a symbol for not only a city, but a whole country and continent. (Sydney Opera House, 2008) Climate change is the main concern that threatens World Heritage sites such as the Sydney Opera House (Daley, 2009). Since the Sydney Opera House is known as a World heritage Site, concerns about potential threats to the actual site are worrying. Such threats include; rising sea levels, increased ocean acidification, higher sea and land temperatures (global warming), and extreme weather events (National Trust, 2009). Because of the rising sea levels, there is a threat of the Sydney Opera House, sinking due to lack of stability. What would happen if the Sydney Opera House was not maintained and conserved? Would the economy differ? The Sydney Opera House relies solely on the patrons it attracts for the diverse performances and activities it provides, and the substantial iconic pull it has world-wide. The Sydney Opera House also provides customers for the surrounding dining (restaurants, bars etc), accommodation (hotels), transport (ferry, train, bus etc) and vast activities that are available in the harbour. The Sydney Opera House is one of the most eventful performing arts centres in the world, providing over 1, 500 performances each year, and therefore attended by an estimated 2 million people, who intern provide the revenue for different events that occur in and around the Opera House, as well as the many hospitality industries also surrounding the venue. Conservation: Recommendations for Improvement In regards to the sea levels rising, the president of the Australian chapter of the International Council on Monuments and Sites, Peter Phillips states that, If sea levels rise, they will all be gone. We want the Minister to realise that there are genuine threats but there are genuine solutions. At its most extreme example, it could mean building a dam around the Opera House (Cooper, 2007). Obviously it is difficult to completely stop the impact of climate change on any Natural Heritage site; however, they are able to be saved for a minimum amount of money with a primary focus on maintenance. However, Comprehensive statutory and associated frameworks are in place across three levels of government to ensure that the present condition of the property is maintained to an exceptional standard (Sydney Opera House 08/09 Annual Report, 2009). They ensure that the building and surroundings are maintained through conservation programs, which are regularly undertaken. The Sydney Opera House Trust and the Australian and New South Wales Governments also thoroughly examine the maintenance situation throughout the year. The Sydney Opera House is ensured protection under various laws as it is listed as a Heritage site on National, State and Local government heritage lists and registers (Sydney Opera House 08/09 Annual Report, 2009). CONCLUSION The Sydney Opera House is instantaneously recognised by a vast number of people around the world as one of the most internationally acclaimed symbolic buildings in the world today. The significance of the building does not only relate to the city if Sydney or even Australia, but the nation as a whole. The Pritzker Price officially recognises that the Sydney Opera House was one of the great iconic buildings of the twentieth century and that it was an image of great beauty known throughout the world (Sydney Opera House 08/09 Annual Report, 2009). APENDIX I Key Dates for the Sydney Opera House Key Dates Achievements 1957 JÃ ¸rn Utzon wins Sydney Opera House design competition (January) 1959 Work begins on Stage 1 building the foundations despite Utzons protest that plans were not finalised (March 1966 JÃ ¸rn Utzon resigns (February) 1973 First guided tours of Sydney Opera House (July) First performance in Sydney Opera House Australian Opera performed Prokofievs War and Peace in the Opera Theatre (September) Opening Ceremony and Royal Concert with HRH Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh (October 20) 1979 Concert Hall Grand Organ completed (May) 1999 Opening of The Studio new venue for contemporary performing arts (March) JÃ ¸rn Utzon is re-engaged and appointed design consultant to the Sydney Opera House (August) 2000 Sydney Opera House Producers Unit established (October) 2002 Sydney Opera House Utzon Design Principles published (May) 2003 Sydney Opera House Conservation Plan published (June) State Heritage Listing achieved (December) 2004 Backstage Tour launched (April) Utzon Room opened first venue at Sydney Opera House designed by JÃ ¸rn Utzon (September) Recording Studio opened (October) 2005 National Heritage Listing achieved (July) 2006 Asian Language Tour launched in Japanese, Korean, Mandarin (January) Colonnade opened by HRH Queen Elizabeth II designed by JÃ ¸rn Utzon, it is the first change to the exterior of the building since its completion in 1973 (March) 2007 World Heritage Listing achieved (June) The Essential Tour launched (October) 2008 Visionary Sydney Opera House architect, JÃ ¸rn Utzon dies peacefully in his sleep (November) 2009 Western Foyers fully refurbished (July)

Essay --

Sydney Armstrong Mrs. Godbey English III CP1 1CD 11 March 2014 The Power of Power Macbeth is a tragic play which begins by setting up the story of a hero of Scotland. This hero is the main character Macbeth. â€Å"Fair is foul and foul is fair† (Crowther Macbeth 1.1.12). Very early, a reoccurring theme is introduced, as well as the planted idea of power. Both of which are given to us by the witches, with unknown motives. Nonetheless, the witches plot the eventual downfall of this Scottish hero. Yet how this approach is made is due to the possibility of gaining a higher position of power. The reason for Macbeth’s corruption in Shakespeare’s Macbeth involves the power that power exerts over an individual who has gained a position of authority. One leading contribution for Macbeth’s tragedy is the inability to have his power kept in check. According the Berger, a position of authority can directly affect the individual’s sense of self, status, and their role in society. This also touches this individual’s sense of not only others, but also that of the world surrounding this person (1). A position of power directly impacts those around that person. These characters surrounding this power, who are close enough, can also maintain a power check over that person. Yet these characters holding such a position in the play are not able to keep this power in check. Under the influence of unchecked power, Macbeth takes actions that have serious and devastating consequences for other characters in the play. The first character who left Macbeth’s power unchecked was Banquo. Although, he had no intention of leaving this position without watch, he was murdered. After the murder of Banquo, Macbeth takes action against the innocent family of Macduff. ... ... receiving the prophecy is Macbeth approached about his new position. This occurrence had given Macbeth a sense of false hope. He automatically assumed everything from that point on was going to work out for him. The power that this prophecy would’ve ensured was misinterpreted from the start. This happens solely due to the fact that nothing simply works out for Macbeth. It is all worked out by him instead. From murder, to black magic, Macbeth needed to work to successfully win over his own ideologies for the throne. Only from a single thought, does this entire tragedy evolve. A thought that ultimately results in revealing the true identity of Macbeth. That thought that was originally power (Jarold 298). The reason for Macbeth’s corruption in Shakespeare’s Macbeth involves the power that power exerts over an individual who has gained a position of authority.

Back To Chernobyl :: essays research papers

Many of the causes of the disaster at the Chernobyl nuclear reactors were from the lack of safety and the failure to follow safety features. This horrible incident shows us many lessons that should be learned. A few reasons for the Chernobyl power plant to rupture was due to the amount of control rods that were used. Where a minimum of 30 controls rods were required, only 6 to 8 control rods were used. The main reason that cause the core to actually ruptured was due to a sudden rise of the temperature in the reactor during the manual removal of control rods in a test which lead to the instability of the reactors. As the temperature rose, the core ruptured. A few reasons behind the Chernobyl nuclear power plants core to overheat were due to a few overlooked problems that were not taken care of. The Chernobyl Nuclear power plant used steam as a coolant, where water is a better coolant than steam for it also acts as a moderator, and second, it was found that the reactor’s emergenc y cooling system was disabled. These lack of actions lead to the catastrophic consequences at the Chernobyl power plant.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  If I were in the same position before the accident, I would’ve made sure that the minimum amount of control rods were being in used considering the dangers of the reactor and their radiation incase of a meltdown. I would also have made sure all the cooling systems and equipment were working properly. Lastly, I would’ve used water as the coolant agent, so as to keep the core cooler.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In contrast to the reaction of the Soviets, I would’ve acted more quickly and expected the worst. I would’ve demanded an evacuation as soon as possible and in addition made sure I would have had a department working on plans for such an incident. Another aspect I would’ve looked at was to concentrate on how the weather would’ve effected the spread of the radiation and the carcinogenic material in the air. There are many aspects that were overlooked that lead to the deaths of many people and the illness of many people from the time for the incident to now, politically, economically, and socially.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The conflict between the environmental pollution of coal plants and the possible threats of having a nuclear reactions is very controversial. The fact the coal itself when burned releases carcinogenic materials into the atmosphere is very apparent the it is dangerous, yet it has been present and is not always as detrimental to the areas that are a good distance away from the area of the plant.

Of Mice And Men :: Free Essay Writer

Of Mice And Men The novel ‘Of mice and men’ is set in 1930’s America. The characters suffer from this because of the Great Depression in 1929. This led to many things, for example people losing their jobs. Because of this factor the characters Lennie and George have to travel from place to place looking for a job and a place to live. Also Woman and Black rights did not exist as they were 2nd class citizens, Crook says to Lennie â€Å"Why aint you wanted† †Cause I’m black†, unlike contemporary America. Also in the 1930’s people were discriminated against because they were put before any other person wanting the job. I think the differences between 1930’s America and today’s America shows drastically in this novel by affecting the characters jobs and social lives. Lennie is a very interesting and important character in the novel; he affects all the character but mostly George. He is very forgetful, George says to Lennie â€Å"So you forgot that already did you!!!† Steinbeck uses Lennies ‘forgetfulness’ as a way to kill Curley’s wife without Lennie knowing. Also Lennie cannot take care of himself, unlike today society cannot provide help for him and if left alone him would slowly die. Also if he was left alone he would not be able to get a job because he would be discriminated against, but with the help of George he has a chance to work if he follows Georges rules, â€Å"If he sees ya work before he sees ya talk, were set†. In this quote George is telling Lennie what to do around the boss, Stienbeck makes it clear in this quote how much discrimination there is in the 1930’s. George, I think, is the main character in the novel, mainly because he controls the book by helping and telling the characters what to do. He teaches Lennie how to behave to other people, I think if Lennie weren’t there, George would be depressed and lonely, although George sometimes get annoyed with him, he thinks a lot of him and this is why he was king enough to kindly kill him. Candy is also an important character in this novel and I think she is also very clever. â€Å"Everybody wants a bit of land, not much† she understands what its like to live in a mans world. Curley’s Wife is a very depressed character because she is a 2nd class citizen and once had hopes of becoming famous, â€Å"he was gonna put me in the movies†, her dream disappeared and is now the wife of Curley’s wife and has no role and no job in the novel, she also wants children

An Evaluation of the Performance of Three Different Mutual Funds Essay

Asset Allocation: Up to 95% of the Fund’s NAV will be invested in equities. Minimum of 5% of the Fund’s NAV will be invested in sukuk, Islamic debt instruments, Islamic money market instruments and/or liquid assets acceptable under Shariah principle Investment Strategy And Policy RHB Islamic Growth Fund is geared towards investors who look for Shariah compliant instruments that provide long term capital appreciation. The Fund will be mainly investing in public listed companies with growth potential,  sukuk, Islamic debt securities and other securities acceptable under the Shariah principles. Selection of equity investments of the Fund will be in line with those in the SC’s Shariah list which is updated and published twice a year. The External Investment Manager utilises a strategy that seeks attractively priced companies in undervalued sectors, or in sectors that have strong upward stock price momentum by seeking businesses that demonstrate strong increase in earnings per share and continue to strengthen their fundamental capabilities and competitive positions, amongst others. The Fund may invest in fixed income securities to preserve the value of the Fund under volatile market conditions. For fixed income securities, the Fund seeks investments amongst the Shariah compliant fixed income papers that are of investment grades. As such, the equities holding may be reduced. Performance Benchmark: FTSE Bursa Malaysia Emas Shariah Index. Securities may decline in value due to factors affecting securities markets generally or particular industries represented in the securities markets. The value of a security may decline due to general market conditions which are not specifically related to a particular company, such as real or perceived adverse economic conditions, changes in the general outlook for corporate earnings, changes in interest or currency rates or adverse investors’ sentiment generally. They may also decline due to factors that affect a particular industry or industries, such as labour shortages or increased production costs and competitive conditions within an industry. Equity securities generally have greater price volatility than The performance of each individual stock that a unit trust fund invests is dependent upon the management quality of the particular company and its growth potential. Hence, this would have an impact on the unit trust fund’s prices and its dividend income. RHBIAM aims to reduce all these risks by using diversification that is expected to reduce the volatility as well as the risk for the Fund’s portfolio. In addition, RHBIM will also perform continuous fundamental research and analysis to aid its active asset allocation management especially in its stock selection process. This risk is associated with investments that are quoted in foreign currency denomination. When an underlying fund is denominated in a foreign currency  which fluctuates unfavourably against the Ringgit, the investment in the Fund may face currency loss in addition to the capital gains/losses. This will lead to a lower NAV of the Fund. Currency risks could be mitigated on a two-pronged approach. Firstly by spreading the investable assets across differing currencies and secondly by utilising forward contracts to hedge the currencies if it is deemed as necessary to do so. Bond issuers may default or reschedule their repayment. When this occurs the value of the defaulted bond would fall and cause the NAV of the underlying fund to decline in a similar proportion. This risk can be mitigated by careful selection of bond funds and in any case this Fund only invests in bond funds that invest in investment grade bonds. The performance of equities and money market instruments held by the underlying funds are also dependent on company specific factors like the issuer’s business situation. If the company-specific factors deteriorate, the price of the specific security may drop significantly and permanently, possibly even regardless of an otherwise generally positive stock market trend. Risks include but are not limited to competitive operating environments, changing industry conditions and poor management. Since the Fund invests into funds managed by other fund houses, the Manager has no control over the respective fund houses’ investment technique, knowledge or management expertise. In the event of mismanagement, the NAV of the Fund which invests into the Target Funds would be affected negatively. Although the probability of such occurrences is far fetched, should the situation arise the Manager reserves the right to seek an alternative fund manager and/or other collective investment scheme that is consistent with the objective of the Fund. Any changes in national policies and regulations may have an effect on the capital markets in which the Target Funds are investing. If this occurs there is a possibility that the unit price of the Fund may be adversely affected. Since a large portion of the Fund’s NAV is invested in the Target Fund, investment into the Fund assumes the risks inherent in the respective Target Funds. The specific risks to investors when investing in the Fund include the following: Investment manager risk As this Fund invests at least 95% of its NAV in the Target Fund, it is subject to the risk associated with the investment manager of the Target  Fund. This is the risk associated with the following:- (i) The risk that the investment manager may under-perform the target or the benchmark of the Target Fund due to the investment manager making poor forecasts of the performances of securities, asset classes or markets; (ii) The risk of non-adherence to the investment objectives, strategy and policies of the Target Fund, which may occur due to system failure or the inadvertence of the investment manager; and  (iii) The risk of direct or indirect losses resulting from inadequate or failed operational and administrative processes, systems and people. RHBIM has no control over the investment manager’s investment strategy, techniques and capabilities, operational controls and management of the Target Fund. Any mismanagement of the Target Fund may negatively affect the NAV of the Fund. In the event of such occurrence, RHBIM would seek an alternative investment manager and/or other target fund that is consistent with the objective of the Fund. Market risk: The value of the instruments in which the Target Fund invests, may go up or down in response to the prospects of individual companies and/or prevailing economic conditions. Movement of overseas markets may also have an impact on the local markets. Currency risk: The Fund invests up to 95% of its NAV in the Target Fund denominated in USD. Fluctuation in foreign exchange rates will affect the value of the Fund’s foreign investments when converted into local currency and subsequently the value of Unit Holders’ investments. When USD moves unfavourably against the Ringgit, these investments will suffer currency losses. This is in addition to any capital gains or losses in the investment (please note that capital gains or losses in the Feeder Fund’s investment in the Target Fund is also exposed to currency gains or losses resulting from fluctuations in the foreign exchange rates between USD and the other currencies which the Target Fund may be e exposed to. RHBIM may utilise the hedging of currencies to mitigate this risk. Liquidity risk: The liquidity risk that exists at the Fund level is associated with the inability of the Target Fund to meet large redemption in a timely manner. In the event of large redemption request that would result in the total redemption shares in the Target Fund to be more than 10% of the shares in the Target Fund or a particular share class of the Target Fund, part or all of such requests for redemption may be deferred for a period typically not exceeding ten Target Fund Business Days. Regulatory risk: Any changes in national policies and regulations may have an effect on the capital markets in which the Target Fund is investing. If this occurs, there is a possibility that the unit price of the Fund may be adversely affected. Risk of Substantial Redemptions Substantial redemptions of shares within a limited period of time could require the Target Fund to liquidate positions more rapidly than would otherwise be desirable, which could adversely affect the value of the shares of the Target Fund. This risk may be exacerbated where an investment with a fixed life or where investments utilizing hedging techniques is made by the Target Fund. Suspension of NAV Calculation / Limitation of Redemption Payments The Umbrella Fund may in certain circumstances temporarily suspend the determination of the net asset value per share of the Target Fund or a specific share class of the Target Fund and the issue, redemption or exchange of shares or a particular share class in the Target Fund. As further described in the Target Fund Prospectus, if on any given date requests for redemption of shares relate to more than 10% of the shares in the Target Fund or a particular share class of the Target Fund, part or all of such requests for redemption may be deferr ed for a period typically not exceeding ten (10) Target Fund Business Days. CIMB Principal Equity fund Investment objective To provide investors with an opportunity to gain consistent and stable income by investing in a diversified portfolio of dividend yielding equities and fixed income securities. The Fund may also provide moderate capital growth potential over the medium to long term period. Any material changes to the investment objective of the Fund would require Unit holders’ approval. Benchmark As this Fund is an equity fund with up to 30% of its NAV in foreign equities, the benchmark of the Fund is a composite comprising 70% KLCI + 30% MSCI AC Asia ex Japan. The information on KLCI can be obtained from http://www.bursamalaysia.com and local national newspapers. The information on MSCI AC Asia ex Japan can be obtained from http://www.msci.com/overview/index.html and Bloomberg L.P. Investment policy and principal investment strategy The Fund may invest up to a maximum of 98% of its NAV in equities in order to gain long-term capital growth. The Fund may opt to invest in foreign equities up to a maximum of 30% of its NAV. In line with its objective, the investment policy and strategy of the Fund will be to invest in a diversified portfolio of high dividend yielding stocks and/or fixed income securities aimed at providing a stable income stream in the form of distributions to investors. The asset allocation strategy for this Fund is as follows:  up to 98% of the Fund’s NAV in a diversified portfolio of dividend yielding equities and/or fixed income securities; and at least 2% in liquid assets. The asset allocation will be reviewed periodically depending on the country’s economic and stock market outlook. The Manager will underweight/overweight equities and/or fixed income securities when necessary. CIMB-Principal combines a top-down asset and sector allocation process with a bottom-up stock selection process. The asset allocation decision is made after a  review of macroeconomic trends in Malaysia and other global economies. In particular, CIMB Principal analyzes the direction of GDP growth, interest rates, inflation, currencies and government policies. CIMB-Principal will then assess their impact on corporate earnings and determine if there are any predictable trends. These trends form the basis for sector selection. The criteria for stock selection would include stocks that have a medium term (2 to 5 years) dividend record or a yearly distribution policy. The Manager will also actively search for under-valued high dividend yielding stocks that may also offer promising long term capital appreciation. Stock valuation fundamentals considered are earnings per share growth rate, return on equity, price earnings ratio and net tangible assets multiples. As part of its risk management strategy, the Fund is constructed and managed within pre-determined guidelines. CIMB-Principal employs an active asset allocation strategy depending upon the equity market expectations. Where appropriate, the Manager will also employ an active trading strategy in managing the Fund. As this Fund is defensive in nature and designed to cater for the needs of more risk-averse equity investors, this Fund will serve well in bear market conditions. However, in bull market the Fund will underperform the market as the Manager will not take on more risk to divert into highly volatile aggressive stocks. Further, in times of adversity in equity markets and as part of its risk management strategy, CIMB-Principal may from time to time reduce its proportion of higher risk assets, such as equities and increase its asset allocation to lower risk assets, such as debentures and liquid assets, to safeguard the investment portfolio of the Fund provided that such investments are within the investment objective of the Fund. When deemed necessary, the Manager may also utilize derivative instruments, subject to the SC Guidelines, for purposes such as hedging. The Manager has appointed CIMB-Principal (S), as the Sub-Manager for the foreign investments of this Fund with the approval of the SC and the Trustee. CIMB-Principal (S) will be responsible for investing and managing these foreign investments in accordance with the investment objective and within the investment restrictions. All costs of this appointment will be borne by the Manager to ensure no additional fee is levied on the Unit holders of this Fund. The Fund may invest in foreign markets where the regulatory authorities are members of the International Organisation of Securities Commissions (IOSCO). The Fund’s investments in foreign markets will be subject to the limit set by BNM and any conditions imposed by the SC from time to time. Currently, the Fund’s holding in foreign investments will not exceed 30% of its NAV. The Sub-Manager may invest beyond this limit provided the approvals are obtained from the relevant authorities (where necessary) and any increase will be reflected in a supplementary prospectus (if deemed necessary). Notwithstanding the aforesaid, the Sub-Manager may decide not to invest in foreign securities as may be agreed upon by the Manager from time to time. Balanced fund Investment objective: To grow the value of investment over the long term through a diversified portfolio with equity and fixed income securities. Any material changes to the investment objective of the Fund would require Unit holders’ approval. Benchmark: As this Fund may invest up to 60% of it NAV in equities with the balance in fixed income securities, the benchmark of the Fund is a composite comprising 60% KLCI + 40% CIMB Bank 1-month Fixed Deposit Rate. The information on KLCI can be obtained from http://www.bursamalaysia.com and local national newspapers. The information on CIMB Bank 1-month Fixed Deposit Rate can be obtained from CIMB Bank website (www.cimbbank.com.my). Investment policy and principal investment strategy The Fund aims to invest in a diversified portfolio of equities and fixed income investments. In line with its objective, the investment policy and strategy of the Fund will be to maintain a balanced portfolio between equities and fixed income investments in the ratio of 60:40. The fixed income portion of the Fund is to provide some capital stability to the Fund whilst the equity portion will provide the added return in a rising market. The investments by the Fund in equity securities shall not exceed 60% of the NAV of the Fund and investments in fixed income securities and liquid assets shall not be less than 40% of the NAV of the Fund with a minimum rating of â€Å"BBB3† or â€Å"P3† by RAM or equivalent rating by MARC, Moody’s, S&P or Fitch. The asset allocation strategy for this Fund is as follows: the equity securities will not exceed 60% of the Net Asset Value of the Fund; investments in fixed income securities and liquid assets shall not be less than 40% of the NAV of the Fund; and at all times, at least 2% of the NAV of the Fund must be maintained in liquid assets. The asset allocation will be reviewed periodically depending on the country’s economic and stock market outlook. In a rising market, the 60% limit may be breached. However, the Manager will seek to adjust this within a time frame approved by the Trustee. CIMB-Principal will adopt an active trading strategy and is therefore especially selective in the buying and selling of securities for the Fund. For the fixed income portion, CIMB-Principal formulates the interest rate outlook by considering factors such as the Malaysian inflation rate, monetary policies and economic growth. With an interest rate outlook and yield curve analysis, CIMB-Principal identifies the weighting of the investment tenor and credit fo r the Fund. In the unlikely event of a credit rating downgrade, the investment manager reserves the right to deal with the security in the best interest of the Unit holders. As active fund managers, CIMB-Principal has in place flexible tolerance limits to cater to such situations. CIMB-Principal can for example, continue to hold the downgraded security if the immediate disposal of the security would not be in the best interest of the Unit holders. For the equities portion, CIMB-Principal combines a top-down asset and sector allocation process with a bottom-up stock selection process. The asset allocation decision is made after a review of macroeconomic trends in Malaysia and other global economies. In particular, CIMB-Principal analyzes the direction of GDP growth, interest rates, inflation, currencies and government policies. CIMB Principal will then assess their impact on corporate earnings and determine if there are any predictable trends. These trends form the basis for sector selection. Sto ck selection is based on the growth style of equity investing. As such, the criteria for stock selection would include improving fundamentals and growth at reasonable valuations. Stock valuation fundamentals considered are earnings per share growth rate, return on equity, price earnings ratio and net tangible assets multiples. As part of its risk management strategy, the Fund is constructed and managed within pre-determined guidelines. Essentially, CIMB Principal employs an active asset allocation strategy  depending upon the equity market expectations, and at the same time monitors the bond portfolio according to three (3) parameters: tenor, credit ratings and sector. The duration of the bond portfolio is also monitored and modified according to the Manager’s interest rate outlook (i.e. the sensitivity of the portfolio to interest rate changes). In response to adverse conditions and as part of its risk management strategy, CIMB-Principal may from time to time reduce its proportion of higher risk assets, such as equities and increase its asset allocation to lower risk assets, such as debentures and liquid assets, to safeguard the investment portfolio of the Fund provided that such investments are within the investment objective of the Fund. Additionally, for investments in debt markets, the Manager may reduce holdings in longer tenured assets and channel these monies into shorter-term interest bearing deposits. When deemed necessary, the Manager may also utilize derivative instruments, subject to the SC Guidelines, for purposes such as hedging. Bond fund Investment objective: The objective of CIMB-Principal Bond Fund is to provide regular income as well as to achieve medium to long term capital appreciation through investments primarily in Malaysian bonds. Any material changes to the investment objective of the Fund would require Unit holders’ approval. Benchmark: The benchmark of the Fund is the RAM Quant shop MGS Bond Index (Medium Sub-Index). Information on the benchmark can be obtained from http://www.quantshop.com Investment policy and principal investment strategy Up to 98% of the Fund’s NAV may be invested in debentures carrying at least an â€Å"A3† or â€Å"P2† rating by RAM or equivalent rating by MARC, Moody’s, S&P or Fitch. The rest of the Fund is maintained in the form of liquid assets to meet any redemption payments to Unit holders. In line with its objective, the investment strategy and policy of the Fund is to invest in a diversified portfolio of approved fixed income securities consisting primarily of bonds, aimed to provide a steady stream of income. The asset allocation for the  Fund is as follows: †¢ up to 98% in debentures and other permissible investments; and †¢ at least 2% in liquid assets. The asset allocation strategy will be reviewed periodically depending on the country’s economic and bond market outlook. CIMB Principal will adopt an active trading strategy and will be especially selective in the buying and selling of securities for the Fund. CIMB-Principal formulates an interest rate outlook through examining factors such as the Malaysian inflation rate, monetary policies and economic growth. With an interest rate outlook and yield curve analysis, CIMB-Principal identifies the weighting of the investment tenor and credit for the Fund. In the unlikely event of a credit rating downgrade, the Manager reserves the right to deal with the security in the best interest of the unit holders. As active fund managers, CIMB-Principal has in place flexible tolerance limits to cater to such situations. CIMB Principal can for example, continue to hold the downgraded security if the immediate disposal of the security would not be in the best interest of the unit holders. As part of its risk management strategy, the Fund is constructed and managed within pre-determined guidelines. Essentially, CIMB Principal monitors the bond portfolio according to three (3) parameters: tenor, credit ratings and sector. The duration of the bond portfolio is also monitored and modified according to the Manager’s interest rate outlook (i.e. the sensitivity of the portfolio to interest rate changes). In response to adverse conditions and as part of its risk management strategy, CIMB-Principal may reduce holdings in longer tenured assets and channel these monies into shorter-term interest bearing deposits. The Manager may also from time to time invest in liquid assets to safeguard the investment portfolio of the Fund provided that such investments are within the investment objective of the Fund. When deemed necessary, the Manager may also utilize derivative instruments, subject to the SC Guidelines for purposes such as hedging. Invesco Asia Infrastructure Fund (â€Å"the Target Fund†) is a sub-fund of Invesco Funds (the â€Å"SICAV†). The SICAV is incorporated as a socià ©tà © anonyme under the laws of the Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg and qualifies as an open-ended socià ©tà © d’investissement à   capital variable. The SICAV is authorized as an undertaking for collective  investment in transferable securities under the law of 20th December, 2002. The SICAV was incorporated in Luxembourg on 31st July, 1990. The Directors of the SICAV are responsible for the management and administration of the SICAV and for its overall investment policy. The Directors of the SICAV have appointed Invesco Management S.A. as management company to be responsible on a day to day basis under the supervision of the Directors, for providing administration, marketing, investment management and advice services in respect of all Invesco Funds. Invesco Management S.A. has delegated the investment management services to Invesco Hong Kong Limited (â€Å"Invesco Hong Kong†), who has discretionary investment management powers in respect of the Target Fund. Invesco Management S.A. was incorporated as a â€Å"socià ©tà © anonyme† under the laws of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg on 19th September 1991 and its articles of incorporation are deposited with the Luxembourg Registre de Commerce et des Socià ©tà ©s. Invesco Management S.A. is approved as a management company regulated by chapter 13 of the 2002 Law. As at December 2007, its capital amounts to USD 3,840,000 and the Directors of the SICAV are also composing the board of director s of Invesco Management S.A. Invesco Management S.A. shall ensure compliance of the SICAV with the investment restrictions and oversee the implementation of the SICAV’s strategies and investment policy. Invesco Management S.A. shall send reports to the Directors of the SICAV on a quarterly basis and inform each board member without delay of any noncompliance of the Company with the investment restrictions. J.P. Morgan Bank Luxembourg S.A. (â€Å"JPMorgan†) has been appointed as the Custodian of the assets of the SICAV which will be held either directly by JPMorgan or through correspondents, nominees, agents or delegates of JPMorgan. J.P. Morgan was incorporated as a socià ©tà © anonyme incorporated on 16th May, 1973 and has its registered office at 6, route de Trà ¨ves, L-2633 Senningerberg, Grand- Duchy of Luxembourg. Investment objective and policy The Target Fund aims to achieve long term capital growth from investments in a diversified portfolio of Asian securities of issuers which are predominantly engaged in infrastructure activities. At least 70% of the total assets of the Target Fund (without taking into account ancillary  liquid assets) shall be invested in equity and debt securities denominated in any convertible currency issued by Asian companies predominantly active in the infrastructure sector. â€Å"Asian companies† shall mean companies listed in an Asian stock market and having their registered office in an Asian country or established in other countries but carrying out their business activities predominantly in Asia or holding companies investing predominantly in equity of companies having their registered office in an Asian country. Up to 30% of the total assets of the Target Fund may be invested in aggregate in cash and cash equivalents, money market instruments, equity and equity related instruments o r debt securities (including convertible debt) issued by companies or other entities not meeting the above requirement. Invesco Hong Kong is an active manager combining bottom-up and top-down multi-factor analysis, although they have a strong focus on bottom-up stock selection where they believe it can add value. The investment universe mainly includes companies in the Asia Pacific ex-Japan region that are principally engaged in infrastructure-related activities, including companies that are involved in providing the foundation of basic services, facilities and institutions upon which the growth and development of a community depends. In addition, ‘soft’ infrastructure that includes financial support (e.g. project financing from investment banks) and maintenance support (e.g. management of communication networks) also fall into this definition. Broadly speaking, infrastructure can be classified as but is not limited to: Economic Infrastructure – to support the long term growth of the economy. These assets have a long operating life and strong monopoly position. Examples: roads, airports and ports. Utilities – to provide essential services for the community. Examples: gas/ energy/ electricity generation, distribution and retailing, water distribution and waste treatment. Social Infrastructure – to provide public sector facilities for the society. This sector has emerged as governments have embraced the public private partnership concept in order to encourage operation efficiency. Examples: train stations, hospitals, schools and stadiums. Commercial infrastructure – private sector initiatives to cater for technology advancement. Examples: satellites, cable networks and renewable power plants. For the purpose of this Fund, the Manager will be investing in Class C of the Target Fund. As at LPD, only Accumulation Shares  are available for this share class. Investors holding Accumulation Shares will not receive any distributions. Instead, the income due to them will be rolled up to enhance the value of the Accumulation Shares.