Health and safety Essay

1Understand own responsibilities, and the responsibilities of others, relating to health and safety in the work setting 1.1 identify legislation relating to general health and safety in a health or social care work setting Health and Safety at work act of 1974, it ensures that the employer, the employee have responsibilities to ensure that a good level of safety is attained in the workplace. The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992, which supports the health and safety act. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) which ensures safe storage and usage of any substances that could harm other workers or service users. The Manual Handling Regulations of 1992, which sets out methods and requirements to be met when manually handling objects, as well as people. The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1985 (RIDDOR) outlines what is required to be recorded and reported. Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulat ions (PPE) 1992 Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1998 see more:explain why it is important to have secure systems for recording and storing information 1.2 describe the main points of the health and safety policies and procedures agreed with the employer The main points of health and safety policies and procedures largely centre on standards that must be upheld in order to create a safe place of work, and also to ensure that somewhere meets all legislation requirements when it comes to things like COSHH, where all harmful substances must be locked away while not in use, and not left around when being used if the worker leaves the room, even for a moment. When handling harmful substances or when administering medication or giving personal care the correct PPE equipment must be worn that is supplied by the employer, such as disposable gloves and aprons. When moving and handling a service user that requires specialised equipment two workers must be present and fully trained to move the service user, manual handling regulations 1992. 1.3 outline the main health and safety responsibilities of: – self – the employer or manager – others in the work setting Self- Health and safety responsibilities that pertain me as the support worker are to maintain any important care procedures, which refer to the policies and procedures once again, but most things do as they outline the ways in which things must be done, this includes attending any training. Health and safety responsibilities include other things such as making sure any activities are done safely, as well as the use of any equipment or materials to be handled with care, minimizing the risk of injury or harm to myself and others, including other staff and service users. If on occasion someone is harmed/hurt then I am to record and report it appropriately, even if it is just a concern. Employer/Manager- Their responsibility is to ensure that every member of staff understands their obligations towards health and safety, and that there are methods in place to allow the employee’s to operate under it. Including keeping enough stock of necessary equipment required to avoid injury, damage or wastage, and not charge for any PPE or first aid facilities. It is also the manager’s role to assess any existing risks and create ways to minimise them, and to provide training on health and safety. Others- All other company support workers, agency, maintenance, nurses, GPs, visitors must adhere to all policies and procedures set out by the management and follow all health and safety protocol. 1.4 identify tasks relating to health and safety that should not be carried out without special training Handling and administering medication/drugs/substances, especially harmful. Manual Handling Using hoists and slings Clinical waste disposal Cooking, food preparation Handling cleaning products, chemical substances 1.5 explain how to access additional support and  information relating to health and safety Speaking to the team leader/manager or by going on the internet and searching for the question you seek the answer for. You could read a book that covers that part of health and safety such as course workbooks. It can be attained by attending any training relating to health and safety, and as always information can be found in the companies policies and procedures. 2 Understand the use of risk-assessments in relation to health and safety 2.1 explain why it is important to assess health and safety hazards posed by the work setting or by particular activities It is important to assess health and safety hazards posed by the work setting or by a particular activity in order to prevent risk of injury to oneself, fellow colleagues and services users. 2.2 explain how and when to report potential health and safety risks that have been identified I would report any potential health and safety risks that have been identified immediately to my line manager both verbally and by written report if necessary. If there is an health and safety risk putting myself or anyone else in immediate danger then I would call 999 and ask for the appropriate emergency service, such as a fire. 2.3 explain how risk-assessment can help address dilemmas between rights and health and safety concerns Risk assessments can help address dilemmas between rights and health safety largely by making the individual, whether that be a service user or a member of staff aware of the risks that exist. For example if someone in a wheelchair who has a partial ability to walk is  feeling discriminated against by not being allowed to walk somewhere unassisted, (it might be wet floor inside or perhaps it could be icy outside) then explaining the reasons behind persuading the use of a wheelchair is for their own safety, and that it is not a decision that even rests in your hands, helps break the dilemma he/she had concerning his/her rights as an individual, and also serve his own health and safety needs. Because it makes the service user aware of the carers responsibilities, and the behind the risk assessments is to keep people safe and not to discriminate for any reason. 3 Understand procedures for responding to accidents and sudden illness 3.1 describe different types of accidents and sudden illness that may occur in own work setting Both service users within my work setting do not have the capability to recognise illness at its earliest occurrence or describe any ill feelings and therefore when the illness comes to show itself on skin, oral areas or eyes the illness can be at a serious stage. As well as everyday accidents such as tripping, falling, cutting oneself with a kitchen knife etc. there are specialised equipment such as hoists that could malfunction during the moving of a service user with possible harm to the service user and staff. 3.2 outline the procedures to be followed if an accident or sudden illness should occur Firstly I must deal with the accident or illness with an appropriate response level. If there has been a loss of limb, head wound, loss of consciousness or loss of breath I will call 999. If there is no immediate risk to life I will call the GP or district nurse and describe the situation clearly allowing them to give guidance on the situation. If the accident is minor and can be resolved by myself immediately such as applying a plaster I must do so. In the occurrence of any serious illness or accident I must record it in the appropriate file clearly stating what occurred and what actions I took and then sign and date it. 5 Be able to move and handle equipment and other objects safely 5.1 identify legislation that relates to moving and handling Manual Handling Operations Regulations, which governs how people manually handle objects and large items as well as people, and tries its best to ensure a safe method for every type of foreseeable movable object. Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which makes injuries and accidents far less likely by making the workplace safe, and that when any injuries are incurred by staff or service users then it is reported and reasonable action is taken. 5.2 explain principles for moving and handling equipment and other objects safely Make sure the area in which the objects are being moved is clear of any trip hazards. Avoid any hazardous manual handling. Adhering to the requirements of any risk assessments in place. Check any equipment to be used is in good working order before using it. Use the equipment properly and safely, while adhering to the agreed ways of working. Using the proper techniques and methods of work, taught in manual handling course. 5.3 move and handle equipment or other objects safely I will demonstrate my competence of moving and handling equipment within the work setting. In my work setting I use both tracking and mobile hoists to move the service users between their beds, commodes, bath, wheelchairs and comfortable living-room chairs. Each service user also has a specialised bed which can be altered in height and resting positions. I confirm that the evidence listed above is my own work and was carried out under the conditions and context specified in the standards.

Baby Boom

Baby boom is generally referred to the 18 years period from 1946 to 1964 that saw the birth of around 76 million babies in the USA. Today the baby boomers forms almost one third of the total American population and they have been instrumental in changing USA in cultural, societal and political ways (Russell, 1987, 27). Baby boomers have been different from their preceding and succeeding generations in their philosophical and political outlook and hence critically affect the US policy as they mature and take important posts in academic, political and business realms.Baby boomers: Social and Political Outlook As the baby boom generation approaches middle and older ages, its voice and opinion would carry tremendous weight in affecting US policy and politics trends (Boulard, 2000). As the baby boom generation is generally affluent, politically and socially conscious and a distinct philosophical outlook, they carry a very powerful voting force with them, compelling state legislators to li sten to them.Baby boomers carry the crucial political weight more because the generation X, the generation that is in its 20s and 30s today, lacks enough political enthusiasm and motivation to seriously consider their voting rights. On the other hands, the maturing and graying baby boomers have started to show better understanding of social causes, taxes, and education and hence become active participants in construction of political voting patterns. Older and Younger Baby Boomers Baby boomers, being born over a period of 19 years, do not constitute one single generation.Instead, they are two distinct blocs within the baby boomers themselves, that have traditionally differed in their attitude and outlook major issues affecting politics and society. Baby boomers born between 1946 and 1955 are called as older baby boomers, while those born after 1955 to 1964 are referred as younger baby boomers. Older baby boomers have inclined to be less materialistic, more philosophical, drawn to so cial causes and have advantage over younger generation in taking up best jobs and greater economic prosperity.On the other hand the younger baby boomers have been typically hard boiled, concerned with money, less interested in social and political cause and preferred leisure over work (Russell, 1987). However, despite their ideological differences, together baby boomers constitute a massive force with huge economic leverage and power in shaping USA’s destiny. According to MetLife Mature Market Institute’s Demographic profile of American baby boomers, the baby boomers have combined annual spending power of more than $ 2 trillion, making them economically and financially most well off segment in USA.Future Implications By 2030, the baby boomers will be in the age group from 66 to 84, making up 20 % of the total American population. With their immense economic power and concern about their old age security, they will cast determining affect on government policies. It is n atural to expect that the aging baby boomers will support a government that is more attuned to their aging needs, security, health- care services, insurance services, tax rebates structure, pension policies, and issues concerning welfare of their families and children.Baby boomers, have a full spectrum of political views. As a group they have shared values of their parents, they are generally patriotic, and moderate in their social views. They voted two to one for Ronal Reagan in 1984 presidential elections (Light, 1988). In general baby boomers would be against the baby buster generation that succeeded them and each one of them would claim to generational identities and form distinct political block (Torres Gil, 1992, 137).It is likely that baby boomers will display generational identification and cohesion and hence the competition they are likely to enter with the younger generation would be along electoral strength and taxation. With their 76 million votes, it is unlikely that th ere is any conceivable political force can afford to overlook their demands, if they decide to vote on common issues affecting them (Torres Gil, 1992, 137). Reference Boulard, G. (2000). Challenges of a New Century. State Legislatures.Volume: 26. Issue: 1. Publication Date: January 2000. Page Number: 12. Demographic Profile. Mature Market Institute. Accessed on web 11. 14. 2006. http://www. metlife. com/WPSAssets/34442486101113318029V1FBoomer%20Profile%202005. pdf Light Paul. Baby Boomers. New York: W. W. Norton & Company, 1988. Russell, C. (1987). 100 Predictions for the Baby Boom: The Next 50 Years. Basic Books: New York. Torres-Gil, F. M. (1992). The New Aging: Politics and Change in America. Auburn House Paperback: Westport, CT.

Department of Peace Essay

1 Internet is always been a source of information. With just one click, all the information you want to know is right in front of your eyes. It always caters to different topics such as: academics, religion, sports, entertainment and even politics. Today, there is probably hundreds of website that discuss about politics and their relevance to national issues. Such website provides information on what they do and on what they will do in the future. A site of the â€Å"U. S. Department of Defense† provides information that caters the entire American citizen. It allows every concern people to have an access or information regarding the department of U. S. defense. Also, the site enables its reader to have an idea or knowledge about the service that the government is doing for them. It provides different links as to explain everything that the defense is responsible of and to give its readers a chance to understand clearly its purpose. The site actually convinces its readers that the U. S. Department of defense’s main goal is to protect the countrymen. Definitely, the site is successful in inducing the citizen to join and unite as one for peace and humanitarian services through the information they have provided. The site was able to affirm that it is there duty to serve and defend the American people whether saving lives or spreading peace in the community. The values are still in tack and the need to share all the information was manifested clearly in the site. They do not only provide the purpose, mission and vision of the department but they have successfully managed to disseminate information through the site. The U. S. Department of Defense official site is convincing primarily because it showed what the people would want to know. Amidst politics intrigues, the department remains stand still and still uphold to its virtues. The use of this site for understanding the duties and responsibilities of the department gives its reader the capacity to make good judgment and to support the department’s mission and vision. Indeed, the site provided by the U. S. department of defense is capable of persuasion because of its plain and truthful explanation of its purpose and of its current activities that is for the betterment of the country. 2 Another site is the â€Å"U. S. Department of Peace† that also caters for the American people. While the department of defense serves for defending its countrymen and for building peace, the U. S. Department of Peace develops programs and campaigns as to promote peace and for national interest. There main goal is to â€Å"take the field of peace building from the margins of the political† and hopefully, bring it to a better place. They intend to apply peace building as to lessen all the conflicts before it gets even worse. The site also provides ample information regarding the association from its mission, vision, goal and their current focus today. The site indicated that the association is not just about the politics but mainly it’s about the effective and practical way in promoting and developing peace. In the site, they’ve explained that the U. S. department of peace is an association that encourages citizen activist to join in building peace for a prosperous nation. Their intention as a peace alliance is well explained in the site because they have indicated their campaigns, programs and activities. Their means of persuading its readers is credible because they have explained point by point their mission and their plans. At first visit to the site, you’ll automatically recognize that they encourage everyone to subscribe holiday cards and at the same time support the work of the peace alliance. In that way, they encourage the readers to support their campaign and offer them such good card. The use of this technique is probably a best way to encourage people since holidays is fast approaching. Nonetheless, the U. S. department of peace is an association that continue to grow as they progress and plan campaigns. Through the help of volunteers and activist, they continue to develop and put into works all of the association’s plan and goal. The use of the internet to promote the association is one of the best way to explain their purpose as an association and as well as to have a discussion board to all the concern people and to those who wanted to support. Indeed, the site also provided the necessary information and they were able to persuade its readers through their truthful agenda and well explained purpose. 3 A related site entitled â€Å"U. S. Peace Government† is about preventing war and terrorism and promotes peace. The site is for promoting peace and establishes peace-creating groups for the nation and other states. The U. S. peace government is pro-peace and in the site they clearly illustrated their purpose. The peace government is composed of hundreds of American scientist and researchers in medical field. These scientist and experts are capable of strong commitment in terms of leading the nation to peaceful direction. The site also includes the introduction of different programs for developing peace. Their ways of promoting peace in its realistic ways is explained in the site. The main purpose of the site is to share to its reader the possible effect of permanent peace if they developed their programs. Their goal as an organization is very simple and they need not to compete with existing governments but instead they will try to prevent problems from occurring. Upon reading the site, you’ll notice that it is trying to persuade its readers by laying all the facts and there agenda as an organization. Their way of imparting information to its readers is clearly manifested in the site. It also includes their stand and perceptions on the current issues that the government is experiencing now. As said, they are not merely a â€Å"policy think tank† but they will contribute to the development of peace in the country. The site has transformed the association’s mission into a realistic way because they put more information about their goal rather than discussing about other matters. They intend to spread peace all over the nation and lessen the conflict. Indeed, the association has come along way in promoting their mission because there is improvement in the nation. 4 â€Å"Daily Kos† is an on-line blog that tackles about the political issues that the present administration is facing now. Contrary to the previous site that was discuss, Daily Kos is far from what those site is all about. The blog talks about the opinions and the suggestions of different writers who share their thoughts fearlessly without hesitations and doubts. The blog define the very essence of being an opposition and the articles talks about the â€Å"what should the government do† instead of some other not so important matters. The writers of the said blog discussed point by point their stand regarding all the current issues. While they cited all their grievances, there is also a link where you can comment and side your side. The blog indicates their own perception according to their virtues and they are not persuaded by the current government. They stand on their own, believing that the government should improve and most of all focus on other important issues. The blog is not actually pro-peace because instead of delivering good feedbacks for the government, they criticize and find fault in the current administration. With their writings, they manifested the idea of a conflict between the government and its people. Nonetheless, we are all entitled for our freedom of speech and the liberation to address our concerns. We cannot deny the fact that there are disagreements and probably arguments that is widely expressed by people all over the nation not just in the internet. Now if you’re for pro-peace, you’ll not be able to be persuaded by the ideas and opinions of the blog’s writers but instead you’ll end up switching or finding another blog that tackles about peace and promoting it. On the positive side, the blog just shared their insights and probably their way of solving the problems that they think is more practical. The better thing to do is to also get the side of the government and let them take their part in explaining to the people the real agenda and their plans for the government in improving peace and not war. Works Cited â€Å"U. S. Department of Defense. † 2007. 21 November 2007 http://www. defenselink. mil â€Å"The Peace Alliance Campaign to Establish a U. S. Department of Peace. † 2007. 21 November 2007 http://www. thepeacealliance. org â€Å"The U. S. Peace Government. † 2007. 21 November 2007 http://uspeacegovernment. org â€Å"Daily Kos. † 20 November 2007. 21 November 2007 http://www. dailykos. com.

PBIS and RTI in the Pre-Referral Process for Special Education Essay

PBIS and RTI in the Pre-Referral Process for Special Education - Essay Example These models have been credited for their ability to come up with the best solutions regarding the best programs and modes of instructions to subject the exceptional learners. In relation to the policies of the government on an inclusive curriculum, learners of special needs also need to be incorporated in the educational system. The models of PBIS and RTI have been indicated to ensure that learners are not discriminated on the basis of their affiliations and exceptionality. All learners, according to the ‘No child left Behind Act’ must go through an educational system that caters for their needs. The RTI model is an approach that focuses on learner differences in a learning situation. According to Burns, et al (2007), the RTI model is a model that is driven by the standards of learning, as well as, the responses portrayed by learners under instructions. This is an interpretation of the fact that, the RTI model is much more concerned with the progress of learners under s pecific instructions- responses to instructions. Additionally, the RTI model offers support and intervention to learners of varying needs in a classroom setting. RTI interventions are provided by specialized persons and depend on the needs of the particular learners. Burns, et al (2007) argue that, RTI model applies concepts of problem solving skills, so as to deal with learner needs. In the case of the learners with special needs, the instructors apply the concepts of problem-solving skills, in an endeavor to come up with the best learning strategies to fit such learners. They continue to argue that, RTI model allows for an integration of all systems that are of benefit to the learners, in terms of implementation of policies put in place to fit all learners. In relation to the pre-referral process for Special Education and the Response to Intervention Framework model (RTI), this model is useful in assessing the capacity of learners and their achievements in the learning situation. This interprets that the RTI model is an assessment model that assesses the success of learning methods and instructions in the learning environment, in context of the special learners. Burns, et al (2007) indicate that learners who have successfully managed to go through this process are in a high probability to fit in the learning setting. Additionally, special learners who are able to respond to the RTI model are more likely to display higher levels of success unlike learners who do not respond to the basics of the RTI model. PBIS ensures that all students access quality education by ensuring that all learners have access to the best learning practices and interventions. Mitchell (2007) argues that PBIS is a framework that is responsible for the best form of curriculum and selection of practices that are guided towards behavioral practices that ensure academic and behavioral outcomes are achieved by all learners in the classroom setting. Mitchell (2007) continues to argue that PB IS works towards coming up with basics for proper decision making and fashioning attributes that can be assessed through the basics as well as establish systems that work towards implementation of these systems. Analysts and researchers argue that it is vital to note that PBIS is not a form of curriculum, but a system that is set towards enhancing access and implementation of

A Stake in Advocating for Proper Working Condition for Women Research Paper

A Stake in Advocating for Proper Working Condition for Women - Research Paper Example It is unethical for factories to mistreat workers at the expense of amassing huge profit returns. The government should put in place watertight solutions to solve this problem. To start with, it should set independent monitoring agencies to ensure the working conditions are in accordance with laws that protect workers. This agency should make sure factories provide clean working and accommodation environment. Sleeping places for workers such as dormitories are not only unhealthy but also outdated. This monitoring agency should advocate for a dismantling of squatter huts near the factory premises, which Barbara portrays in her article. This is because factory employees are not squatters. They are people who deserve respect because of their enormous contribution to the growth of these huge factories. The workers should not crowd and squeeze in these small huts and dormitories. This is because it is easier for the workers to perish in case of an outbreak of deadly diseases or infernos. In case fire breaks in these small huts and dormitories, it can cause many deaths. This is because there the exits have huge heaps of sweaters and other garments. Therefore, the monitoring agency should advise the government to compel factory owners to provide decent housing and living for their workers. Barbara reports that workers in Korean textile industries live in poor lit rooms. On top of this, generated noises characterize the working environment. This is to cut down communication among the factory workers (Ehrenreich 1). This action is not only barbaric but also inhuman. It fosters lack of respect on the part of factory owners to their employees.

What were the status and the roles of Jews under Islamic Rule Discuss Essay

What were the status and the roles of Jews under Islamic Rule Discuss 3 issues - Essay Example The Nazi forces had committed many atrocities against the Jews. They burnt the papers, which contained many important discoveries of Albert Einstein. The paper presents an overview of Jews under Islamic rule. Muslims used to support other religion generally. Muslims believe Islam is only the religion. Muslims feel that the Jews are wrong in believing theirs is a god’s religion. Muslims accept Jesus as a prophet and messiah whom Christians are worshipping as god. Christians have paid much attention towards Jews in the west, whereas in Muslims countries, the Jews were given less importance but they were wealthy. Christians and Jews are friendly in Europe with good religions atmosphere. Whereas in Muslims countries the Jews were treated as minority amongst other religions which resulted in they did not become intruded in Muslim areas. It’s every country’s responsibility to protect it citizen’s basic human rights. Human rights violation should be considered as a serious offence, legal and appropriate action should be taken against those who violate these rights. Countries like Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia and most of the other Islamic countries don’t even consider providing and implementing basic human rights. Jews comes under the minority section and have been given less importance. In Islamic countries the important hurdle is the Shariat1 law. This law prevents basic amenities to the minority sections. According to this law women were not equal to men, they should always be under veil, only her members could see her face, men can marry as any times as they want, women should get married only once and many other stringent laws are under implementation. The Israel and Palestinian conflict has taken center stage in the world politics. It also reflects a fight between the Jews and Muslims and those who are in support with both the religions respectively. It is seen as a war between

Organizational behavior Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Organizational behavior - Case Study Example â€Å"The customer is the foundation of business success† (Hose, 2013). When Amie Lee was appointed to a supervisory position one of the other employees, Hahn Chen, was outraged and asked Abdul for an immediate transfer. He claimed he could not work under a person that did not have any technical skills. There is more than meets the eye at the reaction of Hahn Chen. Mr. Chen is a Chinese American that was raised by Chinese immigrant parents. Amie Lee is also of Chinese heritage. The organization behavior theory that explains the behavior of Hahn Chen is cultural conflict. In China females are visualized as second class citizens in the workplace. For a Chinese person it is disrespectful to work under the supervision of a woman. China is a male oriented society in which sexism is a common occurrence (China, 2011). As a manager Abdul would benefit from the OB concept of perception. Perception can be defined as the process through which people receive, organize, and interpret infor mation from their environment (Schermerhorn, Hunt, Osborn, 2003). He must realize that Hahn Chen is lying about his rejection of Amie as his supervisor. In reality his actions are discriminatory against women in the workplace. Discrimination in the workplace based on gender or sex is prohibited by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Eeoc, 2013). The problem could have been avoided by the manager through training and development. The employees of the firm should have been given cultural and discrimination training as part of their orientation period when they became employees of the company. The firm must take this matter very seriously because Hahn Chen just exposed the firm to legal liabilities if Amie decides to take actions against the firm. She was discriminated against by Mr. Chen. Nobody has the right to make another person feel bad and inferior in the workplace. Abdul Balli must take this problem very seriously and seek a solution immediately. Any solution must recogni ze the fact that Amie is the victim in this scenario and her needs should be the top priority. The first step Abdul must take is to meet with Amie to evaluate her state of mind. She left the meeting crying, thus it is fair to assume that Hahn’s action affected her emotionally. Abdul must make it clear to her that she is a value member of the staff, that the company is extremely happy with her work performance, and that she earned the promotion that was given to her. Abdul must tell her that the actions of Hahn are not representative of the business culture of the firm. To resolve the conflict Abdul will approve the transfer request of Hahn Chen under the condition that he takes sensitivity, discrimination and cultural training immediately. Transferring Chen leaves a position open the engineering department. Abdul must hire a person to fill the void. To speed up the process an employment agency will be hire to recruit a new engineer for the staff. Abdul cannot allow its employ ees to adapt bad customs from other cultures into the workplace. References China.org (2011). Chinese women seek larger role. Retrieved December 3, 2013 from http://www.china.org.cn/china/2011-08/10/content_23177569.htm Eeoc.org (2013). Sex-Based discrimination. U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Retrieved December 3, 2013 from http://www.eeoc.gov/laws/types/sex.cfm Hose, C. (2013). Customer Importance in Marketing. Retrieved

Discussion Board Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 7

Discussion Board - Essay Example It is actually at this point that the women begin acting as detectives. Mrs. Peters made inferences on a loaf of bread left in there, as well as on the possibility that Minnie Wright was actually preparing a quilt and that she was actually making nervous sewing patterns on it, which was a sign of a possible mental problem or anxiety. The rising action continues until the part where both female characters find an empty birdcage and finally a bird in the sewing basket whose neck was wrung. The falling action is the part of the play where the men return from their search while the women pretend not to know anything especially about the dead bird with a broken neck. The men still make fun of the women as they overhear them talking whether Minnie Wright was going to quilt it or knot it. The men thought that the women were just discussing trifles but what they did not realize was that it was the actually the most important piece of evidence they needed. Basically, it is the female characters’ actions and curiosity that advance the play’s plot. Had Mrs. Hale and Mrs. Peters not been curious or inquisitive enough, they would not have started looking around the kitchen among Minnie Wright’s things for anything that could satisfy their curiosity. This eventually led them to the bird with a broken neck. Moreover, the indifference of the men towards the women – by regarding them as merely interested in trifles – somehow helped advance the plot too, for, had they been different, they would have searched the kitchen first and the play could have ended there if they had found the bird

The movie Thor (2011) [N] Holywood Film Critique Essay

The movie Thor (2011) [N] Holywood Film Critique - Essay Example The titular character is the eldest son of Odin, the King of Asgard. As such, he has been prepared to eventually take on the mantle of leadership. The young prince is, as one might expect, proud and impetuous. Some would say, ill-equipped to fully understand the ramifications and intricacies of rule. So, it hardly comes as a surprise that when frost giants, the Asgardians’ defeated enemy, infiltrate the palace on the day of Thor’s succession, the once and future king is eager to retaliate despite his father’s express orders not to do so. Instead, the young prince takes some of his friends to the frost giants’ homeworld, demanding they answer for the attack on Asgard. Thor’s foolish actions nearly result in the outbreak of war were it not for the timely intervention of Odin. As punishment for his egregious lapse in judgement, Thor is stripped of his power and cast out. He soon finds himself on Earth where, as fate would have it, he meets Jane Foster, a brilliant young physicist that specializes in studying wormholes. Back on Asgard, Odin falls into a coma, which allows his younger son, Loki, to assume power. Of course, this is all part of Loki’s plan to seize power. As the film unfolds, Thor’s experiences on Earth temper his youthful impetuousness and teaches him the true meaning of rule. This culminates in Thor making the supreme sacrifice, laying down his life so that Earth might be spared. Interestingly enough, his heroic act restores his powers. The two brothers fight and eventually Loki is defeated. Thor’s transformation throughout the film highlights an interesting shift in our notions of â€Å"heroes† or â€Å"champions†. At the start of the film, Thor is pretty much a â€Å"champion† in a pre-Christian sense of the word. He is strong, brave, and eager for battle. But by the film’s end, Thor has transformed into a somewhat messianic figure. In fact, this is

A Letter Of A Prisoner Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

A Letter Of A Prisoner - Essay Example Inside the prison, we have a small clinic, something similar to the family doctor. One day I had a bad stomach ache and they took me to that clinic. The doctor examined me and assured me that I was going to be all right and that there was no major problem to worry about. The pain stayed with me for two days, after that, they took me to the hospital with two guards because the doctor in the prison’s clinic did not know what I actually have. In the hospital, they said that it was the appendix, so I had the appendix operation done for me, and then I went back to the prison. In fact, the guards who were accompanying me were treating were very nice people. They treated me so nicely and for once I felt a touch of the love that I so long to have close to me; your motherly love. I noticed that they were better than when we are in prison. I suppose this was out of compassion. Normally they are not nice people, especially when dealing with us. Prison-officers are tough and stern in the jail. They often insult us, and however much we try to be good and obedient, they can never command us for our behavior. All they do is an insult and mock us; that is the life that I have to live here in prison. We are not treated with less dignity and handled like animals or some creatures that are less human. It is correct that we are here owing to the fact that we are convicted as criminals, even though, it is enough for us to be punished with the confinement. However, not all the warders are that bad.... In hospital they said that it was the appendix, so I had the appendix operation done for me, and then I went back to the prison. In fact, the guards who were accompanying me were treating were very nice people. They treated me so nicely and for once I felt a touch of the love that I so long to have close to me; your motherly love. I noticed that they were better than when we are in prison. I suppose this was out of compassion. Normally they are not nice people, especially when dealing with us. Prison-officers are tough and stern in the jail. They often insult us, and however much we try to be good and obedient, they can never commend us for our behavior. All they do is insult and mock us; that is the life that I have to live here in prison. We are not treated with less dignity, and handled like animals, or some creatures that are less human. It is correct that we are here owing to the fact that we are convicted as criminals, even though, it is enough for us to be punished with the co nfinement. However, not all the warders are that bad. I usually meet a few good ones when I go to the library to study. Let me tell you something about the prison routine. Our day starts at 7:15 every morning lights,and lights are usually on by then. We are allowed to take breakfast from 7:45 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. Breakfast is the same every day; two boiled eggs and some cheese, this comes with bread and a glass of orange juice. Lunchtime is from 1:00 until 3:00 in the afternoon. It is usually rice and chicken, and salad on the side. Nonetheless, I have heard from the other inmates that during some special occasions we could have either meat or fish instead of the chicken.

Marginalization and humiliations Essay Example for Free

Marginalization and humiliations Essay When a group of [people are marginalied, they come together to agitate for their rights. If they are not recognized they turn to violent means to pass their message and also aim at punishing their oppressors. This is exactly the situation in Palestine where suicide bombings has almost become the order of the day as Palestinians advance their cause for the sake of their freedom. In his article titled Understanding Palestinian Terror, Dr. Eyad Sarraj (2002) explains why Palestinians have become suicide bombers. He calls this an uprising against numerous injustices that have been committed against his community. He takes us through a history of injustices starting from the occupation of their territory by Israel. Eyad believes it is out of absolute despair with the authorities that the Palestinians have turned to the violence as a means of getting what they believe is rightfully theirs. He points out that the Palestinians have over and over tried all the means even making resolutions which have not been honored. (Barlow, H 2007) One such resolution is the so called Resolution 194 where Israel was supposed to allow them back to their homeland, but this did not happen. As a result the Palestinians have been refugees on the land which they strongly believe belongs to them. (Saaraj, E 2002) The Palestinians believe they are fighting a noble cause, getting what belongs to them and also as a form of protest for the atrocities that have been meted on them, it is purely a freedom struggle. Their humiliation and marginalization has been motivation for their agitation for freedom. This type of oppression explains their anger against their perpetrators of this torture. They are very bitter that their land was taken and given to foreigners making them stateless. He rhetorically asks whether anyone knows what it feels and means to be under the Israel occupation. It is a very humiliating experience where one ceases to be a human being. One is given a number and every now and then he or she is subjected to a very dehumanizing search by the Israel forces. Belonging to any political organization calls for a sentence that is so harsh. Palestinians are enslaved in their own country making them yearn for revenge. Most of them are in a desperate situation and are willing to go to any length to revenge and also cause suffering to their oppressers. When Hezbollah and Hams groups come calling for the recruits the have people who are already willing o take the chance to fulfilling their passion. . (Saaraj, E 2002) According to Dr. Eyad Sarraj, the key motivator for the Palestinians to suicide bombing is the urge to be free and also see their oppressors suffer as they have subjected them to the years of misery. They have suffered for long under Israel occupation where no one has been spared. Their enslavement has bred so much hatred towards their enemy whom they believe deserves death and destruction. Children has seen it all as their fathers are publicly humiliated by the Israel forces, this only adds more anger to the minds of the young people who are the easy recruits to the movements and carry out most of the suicide bombings. (Saaraj, E 2002) ` Signing of the treaty by Arafat in Washington as Eyad puts it was meant to bring hope in this land, something that did not happen. He points out that all these humiliation and torture has turned Palestinians to apply the most unimagined ways to fight for their right. He adds that these people are not suffering from any psychological disorders which can make them suicidal but rather draw their inspirations from their strong will to be free and enjoy their freedom like anybody else. Through this they are able to avenge the occupation, loss of freedom and oppression. They have gone through all this misery in their whole lives and they can not take it any more. They have lost hope that any peaceful and meaningful settlement will be reached any sooner and the quickly they drive their enemies to the wall the better. They are determined to pay any prize to see to it that those who have killed their families, tortured their people are destroyed and brought to the justice by their own definition. . (Saaraj, E 2002) Nationalism and loyalty Pape believes that ninety five percent of all the suicide attacks that have been carried out in the world are not religiously motivated rather there are other reason behind them. Most of the attacks are to force the modern democracies, United States included to withdraw their forces from the territories they occupy. . (Pape, R 2005), One of these territories is the Arab world where the united states have occupied Iraq; this has led to Al Qaeda to lead a series of attacks to force them to withdraw. Pape points out that this organization central mission is to draw all the western forces from the region they claim to be Islam dominated. He argues that the attacks which were carried out in Madrid and London were not driven by the Islamic fundamentalist hate on Western countries. Though the type of literature coming from the radical Islamist group may suggest that the attacks were religiously motivated Pape tends to disagree quoting the research he has carried out on several suicide bombing over a long period of time. . (Pape, R 2005), Robert Pape has some evidence, he quoting a report released by the British Home Office . In this study, which was carried out in 2004; attitudes of the Muslim were the main area covered. It was found out that there were about two million Muslim in Britain. It was found out that about thirteen per cent of these Muslims inn Britain strongly believed that suicide bombings targeting the western powers and in particular Britain were justified. They are strongly against the presence of British forces in Middle East and the policies propagated by the western powers towards this region are not warranted. Pape observes that military policies against the Arab world are the main triggers of the hate many have against the western countries. . (Pape, R 2005), A Tamil tiger is another example that Pape has used to show that suicide bombers derive their motivation in the quest for freedom. It pure nationalist ideas that have lead these people to believe in their cause and will to go to any point to make sure they force the occupying forces out of the territory which they believe is their own. The Tamil Tiger rebel group has for along time been fighting for their freedom. They want an establishment of state which is separate from Srilanka. They have fought this war delligently; they may not have the mighty weapon which their enemies have at disposal but they believe their biggest asset is the devotion of their fighters to sacrifice their all for their freedom. ( Pape, R 2005),

Cult and Terror Groups Essay Example for Free

Cult and Terror Groups Essay No one in his right mind would volunteer to join a terrorist group or a cult. It boggles the mind why people would allow themselves to suffer by joining a secretive organization that demands absolute obedience and self-less sacrifice. But then again, one has to see it form their point of view for the outside world may see a terror group or a personality cult but for the members they see different. They see themselves a part of a freedom fighting organization or a group that exists to save the world. Irregardless of what is the correct view the question remains – why would anybody wants to be a terrorist or a member of a cult? This study will take a look at cults and terror groups based on the writings of The Jonestown Cult It has already been said, no one in his right mind would like to join a cult. And here is why, in a nutshell, a cult is secretive organization where members surrender their collective rights to follow the whims and desires of a leader or a small group of leaders. Who would like to be part of something like that? Who would surrender personal freedoms on account of another human being? But there are at least three major reasons why an unsuspecting person is sucked into a powerful black hole such as a personality cult and these are enumerated as follows: 1. A deep emotional and psychological need that finds fulfillment within the cult; 2. Finding a sense of purpose in the vision of the leader(s); and 3. A series of events or signs that seems to confirm the sincerity, divine right, and authority of the particular leader. Emotional Need There is no need to elaborate on Debbie Claytons emotional and psychological problem. But there is a need to reiterate that it is his need for his fathers attention and a great need for a deeper relationship with his mother that made it easy for her to join Jonestown. A cult will offer the same sense of camaraderie and a family for someone despairing for such emotional and psychological salve. Debbie adds that it is not only his utter sense of failure and desperate need to connect with real people, but is also her background that prepared her to accept Jim Jones. She realized that she always had this deep felt need to please her father. And when her father was no longer there as the object of her childish affections, Jim Jones was ready to take his place. A Sense of Purpose Debbie Clayton needed help so she can set her priorities straight. She tells herself shes lost and she has found the way when Jim Jones pointed to her the right way when he declared, â€Å"Come forward. Be a part of a fellowship that will work to rid our society of hatred, racism, and poverty. I am inviting you to join in a new beginning, a life you can feel challenged by. Through my ministry you can help make history† (as cited in Clayton). And for Debbie it was hard to resist. The only problem here is that the cult leader was not there to fulfill Debbies dreams but instead used her to fulfill his vision. Jim Jones knowingly or unknowingly made Debbie accept a new reality, that the cult leaders goals and aspirations are now her main priorities in life. A true leader will serve ad will make other people discover what they are meant to be and then support that person until he or she realizes their dreams. Confirmation This is a very interesting aspect in the study of cults, in the case of Jim Jones and his interaction with Claytons and the subsequent joining of Larry – after three years Debbie Clayton joined the cult – into the Jonestown community. It must be understood that the confirmation can be likened to a sign or an event that is so unlikely that the person could not help but conclude that the cult leader is genuine and has the divine authority to lead. These signs can be witnessed by the members or heard it as part of the history of the organization. Going back to the series of events that led the Claytons in accepting the leadership and authority of Jim Jones, the first sign was Larrys seemingly miraculous exemption from being drafted in Vietnam, with the help of course from the charismatic leader. The second sign was the realization that Jim Jones was correct about his opposition against the war in Vietnam, the third sign was knowing about Jones exploits such as being appointed as a Director of a certain Human Rights commission when Jones was only 31 years old. The fourth sign was Jim Jones adopting three Korean orphans and having a Negro for an associate. For Debbie Clayton her confirmation was in knowing all of the above and in seeing a letter to Jim Jones that was singed by then Governor Ronald Reagan. One could only surmise what is going on in the minds of Larry and Debbie Clayton but their thought process could be similar to the one below: ? Jim Jones is 100 percent genuine because he went to great lengths just so he can demonstrate his principles in action; ? The letter exempting Larry from being drafted in Vietnam and Ronald Reagans letter validates Jones as a great leader; and ? A vibrant mixed congregation is irrefutable proof of his compassion and deep love for the minorities who are usually treated as outcasts and second-class citizens in America. Inferences It is interesting to point out some of the ideas gleaned from Debbie Claytons narration of her experience inside Jonestown. Some of the more fascinating ideas that almost jumped out of the pages is the realization that cult members are not poor and that they are not uneducated, in fact many of them were really smart – the college or university type. For instance one could easily tell that Larry, Carolyn, and Debbie are the sort that can afford to earn a college degree and that their families had the means to allow them to get what they want in life. Another interesting thing that needs mentioning here is the idea that cult members will normally not dig deep enough to paint a coherent understanding of their doctrines etc. For instance Jim Jones claims to be Christian and yet he also teaches a form of reincarnation. A quick survey of Christian history and Jesus teachings will reveal that it cannot mix with reincarnation that should have been a warning for Debbie but once the three aforementioned factors are in effect, the person would only hear what he or she wants to believe at that point. Terrorists It can be argued that those who wanted to join a terror group do not see themselves as terrorists. At least they see themselves as soldiers and freedom fighters. Although Jessica Stern pointed out that, â€Å" developing a single profile of suicide bombers in nearly impossible† (as cited in Stern), one can easily conclude that economic difficulties, politics and religion are the major factors that made them to join. It is not uncommon to discover that families of suicide bombers are taken cared of after their martyred sons successfully carried out a mission. On the religious side there is no need to elaborate as to its impact on the recruitment process. But it is interesting to point out some of the important aspects of Islam. First of all, Islams founder Mohammed was the first to use the ten virgins and promise of paradise as part of the perks and privileges of joining Islam. It is curious why Stern did not elaborate on this and instead went on trying to defend Islam as a non-violent religion when Stern herself quoted portions of the Koran justifying killing for the sake of achieving religious goals. The political aspect can be summarized in one word – Israel. Their hatred for this tiny nation is understandable but it is hard to believe that a person can kill himself simply on the basis of political ideologies. This brings to the realization that religion and politics are seen as one, the intermingling is hard to separate. This means that religious beliefs help shape their politics. Intense hatred for Israel can be explained by the constant fighting. But knowing that the Arabs hated Israel even when the nation was still in its fledgling state after World War II plainly reveals that there anger is fueled by something more than the need for retribution and this is because the Arabs were the first to strike. Fanaticism If terror groups and cults are compared and contrasted one fact becomes visible and it is their fanatical obsession with their respective organizations and blind obedience to their leaders. But here the similarities end. For cults there seems to be a pattern of first having found an answer to their deep emotional and psychological need. This is the point of entry for cult members. For the terror group on the other hand there may be also be a an emotional and psychological need but this is eclipsed by religion and politics. A cult member may later on express love for the community but it can be argued that he or she is only doing so because the community is the source of love, affection, and the main reason why he or she can satisfy that aching emotional and psychological need. For the terror group on the other hand the reasons are less selfish. It is as if the recruitment process is being reversed. For the cult the self-help comes first that is why they will join the group. For the terror group, the community comes first and then self-help such as money for their families comes in as part of the perks and privileges. Deadly Intent A cult may be characterized as a group that is fanatical about a certain set of beliefs. It can be religious or ideological and there is nothing wrong with that. The Greenpeace Movement, a group of environmental activists can be as fanatic as the best of them but the only difference is that cult groups are in business because they want to save the person or the community. The terror group on the other hand is focused on killing others. It can be argued that cults are capable of killing but it is not the usual pattern. On the other hand terror groups used murder and suicide bombings as their main tools. Frustrations One is bewildered by the lack of diplomacy. If Islamic radicals believe that they are in the right path and that their religion is the only path then why would they encourage their members to go on dialogue with their Western counterparts? It does not require a rocket scientist to realize that the more attacks on the U. S. mainland will only increase retribution. But this is just one of the major reasons why dialogue is needed. The more important reason why they must engage in dialogue is the simple fact that they are killing innocent civilians. Not only is their tactics not working to make the world aware of their plight – as of recent history Afghanistan and Iraq were reduced to rubble by incessant fighting – they are also killing those who have nothing to do with Middle East politics. Conclusion It is fascinating to study the similarities of cults and terror groups. Both types of organizations or community require a charismatic leader and blind obedience to the same leader. But this is the point where their paths would diverge. The leader of the cult will help his members only because he wants them to make his dreams and aspirations their own. Thus the cult operates on a more personal level, each group characterized by the personality of the cult leader. Terror groups on the other hand – specifically Islamic terror groups – are bent on killing for the sake of forcing the issue. Cults are fanatical but murder and suicide bombings are not their main tools of choice. Works Cited Layton, Deborah. Seductive Poison: A Jonestown Survivor’s Story of Life and Death in the People’s Temple. Doubleday, 1998. Smith, Paul. The Terrorism Ahead: Confronting Transnational Violence in the Twenty First Century. M. E. Sharpe Publishers, 2008. Stern, Jessica. Terror in the Name of God: Why Religious Militants Kill. Harper Collins, 2003.

Effectiveness Of Electronic Medication Administration Record System Information Technology Essay

Effectiveness Of Electronic Medication Administration Record System Information Technology Essay The report will highlight that to enhance technology in clinical setting is not easy. It required lot of support and resources. In-addition technology cannot be successful without well organized plan. It requires long term planning. This report will provide the overview of pilot implementation of electronic medication administration record (eMAR) system. Health care providers need to understand the importance of eMAR its role in improving patient care safety. This system will help to increase patient safety and have extremely positive impact on hospital reputation. It also helps to decrease medication errors and adverse drug reaction via safe medication administration. It also helps to save printing cost. Pilot implementation of the system assist in identifying issues related to medication administration error in hospital setting. Thus, help to understand how IT processes help to enhance safety. It further helps to understand analyze benefits of the system and how IT facilitates can reduce the chances of error by having robust computerized system. This paper helps to identify users anxiety to accept the IT systems and little modification in programming helps to get positive outcome. This paper investigates why IT systems are unsuccessful and suggest computer literacy and simple modification and technical support to users will help to expedite the process to achieve everlasting solutions to provide quality and safe care to the patients Introduction: The quality of patient care and safety is one of the most significant aspects of health care sector. Nursing and medical professionals face increased need of using information technology in day to day operations with an overall aim of improving the quality of care by increasing patients safety. Currently, hospitals facing patient safety issue related to medication administration. Numerous studies conducted to identify number of medication administration error. Stoppler (2006) pointed it as Approximately 1.3 million people are injured annually in the United States following so-called medication errors. Chiang (2008) supported this issue as Medication errors have been a major concern of patient safety initiatives for all health care systems of the world. Internationally health care facilities are struggling hard to increase patient safety via safe medication administration, because existing paper base medication administration record process is not safe and presented with large number of errors. Russo, (2007) stated that, current paper based medication administration record (MAR) is an inefficient process with no decisive workflow, that places needless stress on nursing staff and lead to illegible entries can resulted in medication administration errors. Therefore, to maintain the quality of drug dose administration and to prevent medication administration errors, electronic medication administration record (eMAR) system, is found to be significant. Few studies suggested that eMAR is a bedside medication administration recording tool providing new levels of recording medication administration activities by dropping error rates and making the administration of medications safer for patients. This report aims to outline the background to implement eMAR system, process of implementation, strength weakness of newly developed system and potential benefits on complete implementation to develop insights about newly developed electronic system for medication administrat ion record. Background: At my institution in 2006 during Joint Commission International Accreditation (JCIA) survey, auditors were not able to find out the administration record of one of the drug of a patient. This generated a thought to have electronic records for all the care provides to the patients. Malloch (2007) highlighted the need of electronic record as: Three specific applications within the electronic record-computerized physician order entry (CPOE), electronic medication administration records (eMAR), and clinical documentation-are impacting patient safety in numerous ways by decreasing incorrect and unnecessary treatments and medications, as well as improving the timeliness of careà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦.The benefits from these 3 applications vary, depending on the implementation sequence; some organizations implement each application as separate initiatives, while other organizations have implemented all 3 applications simultaneously. (p. 159) Consequently our organization decided to initiate each application separately. CPOE for medication prescription, dispensation and medication order review had already been implemented in July 2005. Therefore higher management decided to design and develop in-house system of eMAR for safe medication administration as an initial step towards electronic patient record. The purpose was to eradicate manual MAR and replace with eMAR since current paper based MAR sheets had following subsequent issues: Manual administration record are more prone to error Prone to being lost as difficult to manage paper Utilizes large amount of paper Not meeting the JCIA requirement Administration record not available after discharge Data retrieval is difficult from paper based MAR Sheet Paper records are frequently lost unorganized Sloppily written record lead to legibility issues Mekhjian et al (2002) found that manual medication administration charting resulted in a transcription error rate of 11.3 percent whereas transcription errors were completely eliminated via eMAR. Further literature supports that the most common errors reported were administering drugs at the wrong time or neglecting to administer drugs at all. eMAR provided the framework for improvements in patient safety and in the timeliness of care. (Mekhjian, 2002). Bates Cullen (1995) suggested that 78% of errors leading to drug errors are due to inadequate information management system of eMAR. Furthermore, eMAR has gained a foothold in inpatient settings to support medication administration safety. It prevents paper records prone to being lost, incomplete, or misread. California Institute for Health Systems Performance report highlighted that upto 38% of inpatient medication errors occur at the administration stage (Miller et.al, 2001) Solution: Electronic Medication Administration Record System Safe medication administration is one of the most important elements of care. During hospitalization nurses are responsible to administered medication safely to the patients. This activity is performed multiple times in a day for an individual patient. It is a complex process therefore accurate documentation of the medication administration is extremely important. Jylha Saranto (2008) cited: The complexity of the medication management process exposes it to errors, and medication errors can occur at any point in the medication management process. A survey recently conducted in a Finnish hospital showed that more than half of reported adverse events (66%) were medication errors, most of them relating to documentation (33.6%) However, manual MAR had lot of issues related to patient safety and could lead to adverse drug events. Thus, organization decided implement for eMAR because it allows nurses to manage medication administration efficiently as it has the potential to make the administration of medication safer for the patients by reducing error rates (Westbrook, 2007). Therefore following steps were taken: eMAR task force developed to explore the need of technology including hardware software Group reviewed current medication administration process and developed flow diagram for expected system Visited different hospitals in USA to develop understanding of the system and its flow Conducted regular meeting with ISD for system design and development After having vigorous exercise team identified that eMAR could not be implemented completely without right patient identification and right drug identification. This system is heavily dependent on admission and pharmacy system. Therefore bar-coded wrist band bar-coding unit dose system would be pre- requisite. Consequently sub-group was developed to explore bar-coding system for different applications. The purpose to incorporating bar-coding in health care setting is to improve the quality of care by reducing medical error and by decreasing the cost of care for the patient. Thus, admission and pharmacy departments had been involved for bar-coding implementation. After multiple sitting and cost analysis, group decided to break eMAR implementation in 3 different phases Phase 1) Implementation of Barcodes: Patients Armbands for right patient identification for all the inpatients on arrival from admission department Bar-coded medication labels for identification of 5 rights include right patient, right drug, right time, right dose right route. Further pharmacy system generates medication administration schedule; this schedule will be foundation stone for eMAR. Phase 2) Medication Trolley Purchase new medication trolleys with Laptop having wireless connectivity barcode reader to view active drug list due at specific time, to follow 5 rights Phase 3) Online MAR Develop software of eMAR to eliminate manual MAR and initiate online entry after administration in computer to eradicate paper How this will work Nurse will identify the patient by scanning wrist band Nurse will then scan the Medication Cassette Bin of respective patient First RIGHT will be identified at this point Right Patient Nurse will then scan the Medication Labels Remaining four RIGHTS will be identified at this point Right Drug Right Dose Right Time Right Route Nurse Administer the Dose to the Patient After Administration, Nurse will put her Signature electronically into the system Thus above requirements were communicated to the senior management. Consequently due to lack of resources implementation of all above requirement were not possible at once because huge amount of money is required for barcode implantation in admission and pharmacy department and sophisticated medication trolley with laptop barcode reader. Therefore, team determined to implement eMAR successfully, with good outcome and within the resources provided, all above phases need to be implemented step by step. Thats why 3 sub-groups have been developed to initiate the work for each activity. Group 1 will work on Bar-coding planning and implementation. Group 2 will be responsible for purchasing of sophisticated medication trolley and group 3 will work on software development for electronic administration entry for medication. However, phase 3 of aforementioned plan was to be implemented first as it only required in-house software developments with no extra cost involvement and further built on existing CPOE system. Therefore, group 3 comprises of nursing and information system department (ISD) team work together to design and develop the system. ISD developed first template of eMAR in December 2006 and presented to nursing management team for feedback, they suggested few modifications. Modified version presented to them again for re-evaluation in February 2007. Afterward, pilot implementation was done in 5 beded cardiac step down unit in April 2007. Same was replicated in other cardiac stopdown units. Subsequently it was replicated in other units depending upon the availability of computers. Therefore, 06 desktop computers, 20 wall mounted computers in intensive care units, 2 mobile trolleys without medication bins 2 laptop mounted medication trolleys were provided in nursing units to cover 153 beds out of 520 beds. This covers 30% of total admitting patients. This phase will help to overcome issues of legibility, decrease chances of data lost as not need to manage paper since no paper is required. It helps to meet the JCIA requirement as data retrieval is easy and able to find out administration record. In-addition this will help to have ontime administration record and nurse need to sign the medication after administration and system will capture administration time which will further help to indentify wrong time administration, delayed administration and miss dose administration. Through this phase patient safety issue is still not resolved as identification of 5 rights is achieved manually because bar-coding is yet to be implemented. However, further implementation discontinued after July 2008 due to resource limitation for computerized laptop based eMAR trolley barcode implementation. In-addition few reservation for further implementation related to multiple frequent system breakdown and users resistance for further implementation was also highlighted. Therefore, eMAR task force re-collected to discuss and resolve above concerns to promote further. They identified following issues: Issues related to system functionality System performance/ shutdown issue. Issues related to limited hardware availability Training issue and computer literacy issues Users resistance as system force them for ontime documentation whereas paper base MAR have provision to sign the administration record as per their own accord On other hand group 1, barcode team implemented bar-coded armbands for all the inpatient. Now only medication label to be bar-coded is pending, for that label has been designed and approval has been taken from nursing users and pharmacy. Bar-coded label printer is to be purchased and pilot testing of barcode label needs to be carried out. Group 2 representatives explored different eMAR trolleys available in the market to identify the most suitable for our working environment. Our requirement is light weighted small trolley with 10 medication bin as 1 nurse is assign to 10 patients. Finally it was decided to purchase Atromick Medication Trolley. Purchase order was generated to have sample trolley to pilot. Trolley has been piloted successfully and received positive feedback from nursing users. Therefore, it was decided to purchase 72 more trolleys as required by nursing units. 46 trolleys will be purchase by October 2010 and remaining will be purchased in 2011. System feedback after pilot implementation Information technology seems to be more proficient and provide transparent alternative to manage issues/concerns smoothly. After pilot implementation of in-house developed eMAR software and Atromick medication trolley few strength and weaknesses were identified. We identified that most of the users in our hospital are not well computer literate. This lead to increase resistance and they prefer to use manual system. Another most important issue is lack of interest from some of the nursing managers. They even not agreed to initiate the pilot project and the main reasons were lack of staff, lack of computer literacy, lack of hardware availability on nursing floor and they felt it would increase staff workload. Their concerns were well taken and computer training had been provided to nursing staff before initiation and on regular basis as well. Moreover, extra computers have been provided on nursing floor before pilot implementation. Nursing director is working hard to increase number of staff but its difficult as currently nurses turnover rate in our organization is 17%. Lastly management group was explained that it definitely increase some workload initially but it save nurses time currently utilize on maintaining paper record and data retrieval as it will be more transparent. It also increases safety of the patient and their record and have ontime documentation of drug administration. Thus, pilot project has been put into practice for 30% of hospital beds. The pilot project helped us to be acquainted with the weaknesses of the system which includes: Lack of material resources human resources Gaps in software programming i.e. initially all the stat orders and single dose order automatically disappeared from the screen with drug stop time. This created frustration among users as they were not able to mark administration for pre post transfusion drugs, chemo therapy drug, pre post operative drugs. Another gap is related to infusion screen as nurses have to sign infusion record every hourly which increase their workload. Multiple time system got stuck/ slowdown/ non functional endorse resentence of users as they feel whole process is very slow Users highlighted that system is not user friendly On multiple occasion users identified that same drug appears twice on the screen. On investigation it was find out that its because physician enter new order for same drug without discontinuing the previous one. Therefore, modification is required in CPOE system. Unsatisfactory technical support Lack of training System usually found to be slow which lead to increase administration recording time Beside, this one of the most important issues is resistance from users side as it increases their workload as well as their accountability, because paper base system has provision to sign the administration record as per their own accord. Whereas, electronic system increase obligation for ontime documentation. Another most important weakness is related to patient safety issue as bar-coding system has not been initiated yet and users relays on manual identification of 5 rights. However, in conjunction with above resistance, users satisfaction survey conducted in July 2008 showed 79.9% satisfaction of users with the system. The results appear with positive feedback but they highlighted area for improvement. Their feedback enclosed request for multiple modification, for instance separate screen for cyctotoxic drug administration as this required to mark start and stop administration time with comments as these drugs administration time last for hour. Demand to generate multiple reports to view administration record, miss dose administration record, administration record of discharge patient, administration report of particular drug etc. Primarily system starts with single screen for all type of administration i.e. intravenous infusion, PRN and routine medication which overcrowd administration screen and create confusion. Therefore, requested to develop separate option for each. In-addition modification was requested for infusion screen as current option requi res to sign infusion every hourly. Survey also highlighted some of the strength of the system pointed out by users which include: System helps users to easily identify numbers of doses administered to particular patient for specific drug as data retrial is extremely easy, though sometimes it takes time due to slowness of the system but its faster than manual process as data retrieval is difficult with paper base system. In addition it helps users to identify miss doses, delayed administration and skipped administration. It decreases utilization of paper and save printing cost. It helps to identify reason for delayed miss dose administration Administration screen appears with current drug only i.e. due for administration for next dose time. System frequently update with changes in CPOE system and has good interface with pharmacy and admission system System is easy to operate and output (Administration reports) data from system is reliable and accessible System appears with detail information regarding drug including drug name, ID, required dose, dose time, route, frequency, star time and stop time, drug comments if any for safe administration. System is provided with dictionary based comments column for nurses to enter administration comments if any, in case of delayed, missed early administration. Paper base system utilizes nurses time to print medication label on drug review and then need to paste them in MAR sheet. This system omits all above and reviewed order in CPOE system automatically appears on eMAR screen for administration. Thus, many nurses found this system very effective the only concern is related to more time required at entry level. We identified that nurses with good computer skills are more positive towards IT systems. Chiang (2008) cited that Studies have shown that, for instance, nurses found that the IT system was good in aiding prevention of medication errorsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦.but required a lot of time in operating the system. Potential benefits of the system after complete implementation eMAR system can improve the administration record and will able to provide accurate administration time of the drug. It advances patient safety by right patient and right drug identification via bar-coding system. To elevate further safety option has been developed in a manner to mark administration after actual drug administration to the patient as system is not provided with any go back to your old ways option, which will help to increase reliability. System has been provided with mandatory option to enter comments for delayed administration or miss administration which will help later to identify causes and corrective action can be taken to improve business. Besides the safety of patient and its data, other supplementary benefits are cost and saving of storage space. Currently our hospital utilize huge amount ($15857/annum) of money for storage space. Although, these potential benefits are currently not very visible but it will be apparent with complete computerization of patients record. In addition an electronic system gathers all at one wave length and has standardized practice. This will provide opportunity to have good interface with national and international systems later. To get most out of it nurses suggested to provide medication order review screen drug formulary on eMAR system to save nurses time for multiple login. Kuperman Gibson (2003) cited This technology can yield many significant benefits and is an important platform for future changes to the health care system. Conclusions Patient safety is our main objective while working in clinical setting. Therefore, technology needs to be adopted to enhance safety. This will help to progress further. We all need to work continue to enhance computerization and involve information communication technology in hospital setting. Our organization actually works hard to achieve eMAR to increase patient safety and by 2011 we will certainly achieve our target to reduce medication administration error. Above report shows that eMAR system helps to increase safety, decrease medication administration error and safe printing cost. On top of it system will avoid wrong time error and have ontime documentation.

Unwarranted Cellular Tracking in The United States Essay -- Personal F

In this day and age of technology and digital information, finding the location of a restaurant or landmark only takes the click of a button. At the same time, the technology being used for directions and GPS allows the government to find the location of anyone at any given moment, watching over all as they so please. The prevalence of unwarranted cell phone tracking is extremely high, so much so that a case was taken to the Supreme Court to debate the issue. It was decided in this case, United States v. Jones, that a device having its movements tracked is the same as trespassing on property (United States Supreme Court). More recently than this, the American Civil Liberties Union released several public records detailing the process police departments use before tracing cell phone locations. Shockingly, it was revealed that a large majority of departments around the country fail to acquire a proper warrant before tracking suspects (Crump). Considering the ubiquity of cell phones in society today, jokes about the government turning into a "Big Brother" watching over citizens have nearly become a reality in the U.S., with tremendous worries about what little privacy there is left. What was once thought of as a handy communication tool has now turned into a traveling tracker for the police to spy on the common man with. Imagine, every step outside of a denizen's home being tracked step for step. This was entirely unknown before, and the revelation of such broke the illusion of safety civilians thought they had. Law enforcement agencies shouldn't be allowed to so freely track cell phones without the use of a warrant, it violates a citizen's rights, gives no regard to privacy, and creates an inconsistent legal standard within ag... ...media story brings this issue to light again. Making the push to put reform on this matter and enacting a law to require warrants will restore the values law enforcement agencies are meant to uphold, and bring back the sense of security that is seldom found in society today. Works Cited Clark, M. Wesley. Cell Phones as Tracking Devices, 41 Val. U. L. Rev. 1413 (2007). Crump, C.. "Results of nationwide government cell phone tracking records request show frequent violations of Americans' privacy rights." . N.p., 2012. Web. 22 May 2012. Lightblau, Eric. "Police Are Using Phone Tracking as a Routine Tool." www.nytimes.com. New York Times, 03/3. Web. 28 May 2012. U.S. Supreme Court, . "United States v. Jones Opinion."supremecourt.gov. Us Government, 2012. Web. 28 May 2012. "Cell Tracking." Electronic frontier foundation. EFF, n.d. Web. 22 May 2012.

Abolition Essay -- essays papers

Abolition A Stronger Resistance The abolitionist movement in the United States sought to eradicate slavery using a wide range of tactics and organizations. The antislavery movement mobilized many African Americans and some whites who sought to end the institution of slavery. Although both black and white abolitionists often worked together, the relationship between them was intricate. The struggle for black abolitionists was much more personal because they wanted to end slavery and also wanted to gain equal rights for blacks. However, many white abolitionists only sought to end slavery and did not fight for equality for blacks. From these exceedingly contrasting perspectives and the continuation of slavery, the sentiment of many abolitionists became more militant and radical; some abolitionists began to use more violent methods of resistance to abolish slavery. Before the 1830s most antislavery activists stressed gradual emancipation. These feelings were expressed mainly by Southern whites, some possessing a fear of free blacks not being ready for freedom and others holding beliefs that slavery would gradually disappear (Notes, 10/18/00). Generally, only black abolitionists demanded an immediate end to slavery. This difference in opinion contributed to some blacks taking more violent measures to gain freedom and equality. Further contributing to the more aggressive tactics were the goals of the white abolitionists. Many white abolitionists were not able to accept blacks...

Garden for the Blind :: Architecture Design Essays

Garden for the Blind I love the idea of creating a garden for the blind. Blindness is something I have given a lot of thought, as I have Glaucoma, an eye disease that untreated leads to blindness. Doctors said that had I not been diagnosed, I would have been blind by the age of ten. Luckily, in my case, they did catch it and I am able to see. Being so close to losing my sight has made me think very seriously about life as a blind person; and I often try to do everyday things with my eyes closed, such as getting ready for bed and playing the piano, to see how much of an adjustment I would have to make. The first thing that I notice when I try to do something with my eyes closed, is the immediate need for touch. Although the other three senses, audio, olfactory, and taste are also important and I plan to incorporate them into my garden as well, however, my main focus will be on the sense of touch. To begin with, the area designated for the garden is fairly steep, therefore it is necessary to decide how to set the path through the garden. Our class trip to the Butterfly Rain forest, and being able to go through blindfolded, was a great resource for ideas on creating this garden, particularly with the need to create an environment that is easy to navigate without sight. Stairs provide obvious difficulty for a garden for the blind, therefore, I have decided to use sloping ground, which although more expensive, would be safer and an easier environment to navigate. Also, as an additional benefit, the garden would be wheelchair accessible. To line the garden path, either a natural pressed dirt ground, or a highly durable short sod ground could work, both of which are natural options. However, recycled tires, much like the surface of nice running track surfaces, would make an easier to maintain surface, that incorporates recycled materials and gives more of a response to t he act of walking by adding an extra bounce (in addition to being even more wheel chair friendly than the previous two natural options). The main focus of the garden that I think would create an extraordinary environment, unlike anything else existing, would be the incorporation of marble statues periodically along the path that visitors to the garden would be encouraged to touch. Garden for the Blind :: Architecture Design Essays Garden for the Blind I love the idea of creating a garden for the blind. Blindness is something I have given a lot of thought, as I have Glaucoma, an eye disease that untreated leads to blindness. Doctors said that had I not been diagnosed, I would have been blind by the age of ten. Luckily, in my case, they did catch it and I am able to see. Being so close to losing my sight has made me think very seriously about life as a blind person; and I often try to do everyday things with my eyes closed, such as getting ready for bed and playing the piano, to see how much of an adjustment I would have to make. The first thing that I notice when I try to do something with my eyes closed, is the immediate need for touch. Although the other three senses, audio, olfactory, and taste are also important and I plan to incorporate them into my garden as well, however, my main focus will be on the sense of touch. To begin with, the area designated for the garden is fairly steep, therefore it is necessary to decide how to set the path through the garden. Our class trip to the Butterfly Rain forest, and being able to go through blindfolded, was a great resource for ideas on creating this garden, particularly with the need to create an environment that is easy to navigate without sight. Stairs provide obvious difficulty for a garden for the blind, therefore, I have decided to use sloping ground, which although more expensive, would be safer and an easier environment to navigate. Also, as an additional benefit, the garden would be wheelchair accessible. To line the garden path, either a natural pressed dirt ground, or a highly durable short sod ground could work, both of which are natural options. However, recycled tires, much like the surface of nice running track surfaces, would make an easier to maintain surface, that incorporates recycled materials and gives more of a response to t he act of walking by adding an extra bounce (in addition to being even more wheel chair friendly than the previous two natural options). The main focus of the garden that I think would create an extraordinary environment, unlike anything else existing, would be the incorporation of marble statues periodically along the path that visitors to the garden would be encouraged to touch.

Potbelly’s Case Essay

1. Potbelly’s strategy in terms of product and market are to provide great food and a friendly atmosphere. As far as their product goes even their CEO Keil says that anybody can make and sell a sandwich. What strategy they use is by using quality ingredients and a superior value. Their strategy towards the market is to provide a fun, unique experience to their customers. Their previous attempts as far as product goes was to sell antiques along with their sandwich shop, kind of the same approach as a cracker barrel. It seems the sandwiches become a more important part of their revenue. The antiques became more of decoration then sale items. The past market was very small just having one sandwich shop owned by a couple. With the purchase of the shop they quickly started a chain of restaurants and have opened a lot of locations just recently. 2. Potbelly’s position strategy seems to have been starting small in one area while making a name for itself. In its first five years all the locations opened were in Chicago, Illinois. After they had built a reputation they moved into Washington D.C. This seems to be an attempt to stay in major cities to increase their reputation. The nation’s capital is one of the many major travel destinations for work. This way the businessmen of Chicago can get the sandwiches they love even away from home. The next year instead of branching out to the other major business travel cities, for example, New York, Atlanta, Dallas, and Los Angeles, Potbelly took the approach that many other chains take. There central location was Chicago, Illinois; from there they spread into neighboring states, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Like mentioned earlier most chains take this approach until they are nationwide. A lot of grocery stores northerners are familiar with will not be found as the y head further south just as southerners will not find the same stores they are used to shopping at when they head north. The next year it opened locations in some of those same states and spread to Indiana as well as another major business travel destination, Texas. In the more recent years they have built more locations in the already occupied states while spreading to neighboring state Ohio. From this point they have made a good name for themselves and have over 100 locations; with the reputation the company has I am sure they will continue to spread their market. Their original locations are located in Northern Mid America, they did not start on one coast and try to spread to the other, this will help extremely with them being a nationwide chain and in the coming years will probably start seeing Potbelly’s as far east as New York, as far south as Georgia, and west into the mid-western states. 3. Potbelly’s environmental opportunities in the external environment would probably include their original location and how much easier it is to spread from the middle of the country rather than the corner or coastline of the United States. The threats Potbelly’s would face more importantly is the competition. There are many well established chains of sandwich shops in the United States including, Sub-way, Quiznos, Panera Bread, Jimmy John’s, and Schlotzsky’s Deli to name a few. When moving into a new market promotion is a key element as the market the company does not know the companies name and would rather go with what they know. Potbelly offers promotions and a great atmosphere that may be able to take some of these competitors business. Subway for example does not use quality ingredients, nor does it have any sort of friendly atmosphere for around the same price. It should be very easy for Potbelly’s to take business away from them. For Potbelly’s to maintain its antique setup and friendly atmosphere they will require excellent management expanding into these new markets. I do not see any reason for Potbelly’s to change their strategy at this time. Changing the way they do business, either the looks of the restaurants or the friendly workers would take away from why people will choose them in the first place over their already known sandwich shops.

Kiss the Rain Short Story Essay

While waiting for my bus home in the pouring rain, I felt the rain suddenly stop. I looked up to see an umbrella covering me. I looked beside me to see a girl, about my age, kind enough to share cover with a soaked stranger. After a few moments, she moved the umbrella closer to me, motioning me to get it as she skipped on the waiting bus. My bus had come seconds after the girl’s left. I never got a name. I had forgotten about that incident days after only to see the umbrella in my room. Hovering over just to see a small paper attached to the handle, â€Å"Kang Eun-Mi† was written in graceful handwriting. While on my way to the bus stop in the pouring rain, I see a silhouette of a girl, about my age, standing there waiting for her bus. I opened the umbrella, stood next to her and looked down on her. Her face as beautiful and as graceful as her name, â€Å"Kang Eun-Mi†. I gave her back her umbrella and hopped on my bus home. I didn’t expect another encounter with the beautiful and graceful Eun-Mi but just the next day, I saw her again. Standing where she always stood. I smiled at her like an old friend and she smiled back showing her perfect smile. Her smile as beautiful and as graceful as her name, â€Å"Kang Eun-Mi†. I got on my bus, but to my surprise she got on as well. We easily got to know each other and as each day passes, I got to know more about the beautiful and graceful Kang Eun-Mi. She was perfect to me, I couldn’t see any flaw in her. She was beautiful and graceful like her name, â€Å"Kang Eun-Mi†. Years pass and the beautiful and graceful Kang Eun-Mi and I had grown to become the best of friends. No secrets were kept between us. No secret but one. I loved her. I didn’t love her like a best friend or a sister. I loved her like how Romeo loved his Juliet, like how Jack loved his Rose. No, I didn’t love her, I WAS INLOVE WITH HER. I was in love with t he beautiful and graceful Kang Eun- Mi ever since I had laid my eyes on her. I couldn’t tell her in fear of losing out friendship. One day, I didn’t see her. I couldn’t call her. She didn’t reply to my messages or return my calls. I was worried, maybe something had happened to the beautiful and graceful Kang Eun- Mi. I rushed to her house but I was told she wasn’t home. I took the next taxi I saw to her school. My heart was racing so fast. I was afraid that something bad had happened to the Kang Eun-Mi I had loved so much. When I reached her school, the first thing I saw crushed me. It felt like swords had pierced my heart, cut it in a thousand tiny pieces. The beautiful and graceful Kang Eun-Mi was with another man. She was in the arms of another person. She loved someone else. I was not sure how to react. I was not sure what to do. Should I take her away from that man? Should I punch him in the face for stealing someone who wasn’t even mine from the start? I knew better than to cause trouble. I had to accept it. I had to cope with the burning feeling in my chest. I have always known that she would never love me that way. She would never love me like how I love her. I am nothing but her best friend. Just a best friend. I had tried to cut any ties with her. I didn’t return her calls, I didn’t reply to any of her messages; I tried everything to take my mind off her. But I would always find myself drifting to places where we used to go, bringing memories of the beautiful and graceful Kang Eun-Mi. But of all the places, I tried my best to not set foot on the bus stop where we first met. Seeing that place would always bring painful memories. It would always bring the happy moments we had. The happiest memories would always hurt the most. After months of not being with her, I received a call from her. She wanted to see me at the bus stop, she said it was important. And from the sound of her voice, I could tell that something was wrong. It was pouring heavily, I grabbed an umbrella and rushed to the bus stop as fast as I could. I could not think of anything else but the beautiful and graceful Kang Eun-Mi. When I got there, I saw a silhouette of a girl, about my age, standing there waiting for someone. I opened the umbrella, stood next to her and looked down on her. Her face as beautiful and as graceful as her name, â€Å"Kang Eun-Mi†. As soon as she noticed an umbrella over her head, she turned to me and whispered the words â€Å"We broke up.†. I dropped my umbrella and hugged her like I have never hugged her before. I was lying in bed later that night with guilt in my heart. I was guilty because the Kang Eun-Mi I loved so much broke up with her boyfriend. I was guilty that I was happy about it. But I then realized that she would never be mine, that I was just a best friend. The next day, everything was perfect. Everything was how it used to be. We did everything like we used to, we rode the bus home like we used to. Everything was in place. It was only the two of us. But just when everything felt in place, I got a call from her. She wanted to see me, she said it was important. And from the sound of her voice, I could tell that something was wrong. I ran as fast I could. I felt my heart beat faster. By the time I got there, I was out of breath. She told me to sit down next to her. I can read the worried expression on her face. The way she acted told me that something was wrong. I knew Kang Eun-Mi like the palm of my hand. I could read her like an open book. I was getting worried at what she would say. I was getting quite nervous just looking at her expression. She opened he mouth, words came out. But I could not believe what she was trying to tell me. Her father was transferred to California. They were migrating to the United States. She was going away. Kang Eun-Mi was going to leave me. The Kang Eun-Mi I had loved for so long was going to leave me. I pretended to be happy for her. But I knew that she read the expression on my face. I excused myself, stood up and went home. I couldn’t accept the fact that the beautiful and graceful Kang Eun-Mi was going to California. I didn’t see her until the day she was going away. I would always remember that day. October 5th, the day Kang Eun-Mi promised me that she would call often, that she would e-mail me everyday and that she would be back soon. That was the last time I saw the beautiful and graceful Kang Eun-Mi. She had kept her promises. She has kept it all but one. She still has not returned. She has been sending me e-mails every single day. But then, it stopped. She didn’t reply to my e-mails or return my calls. I was worried, maybe something had happened to the beautiful and graceful Kang Eun- Mi. It has been 3 years since I last heard from the beautiful and graceful Kang Eun-Mi. I still think about her everyday. I always wonder how she is doing. Who she is with, what she is doing. And i’ve been regretting not telling her how I feel. I am a fool for not confessing to her. After years of not being with her, I received a call from her. She wanted to see me at the bus stop, she said it was important. She had kept her promise! She was back!   I felt so happy that I felt my heart skip a beat. I was finally going to tell her how I feel. I was finally going to tell her that I was in love with her. I was in love with the beautiful and graceful Kang Eun- Mi ever since I had laid my eyes on her. When I got to the bus stop, I was greeted by a silhouette of a woman my age, standing where my best friend always stood. I smiled at her like an old friend and she smiled back showing her perfect smile. Her smile as beautiful and as graceful as her name, â€Å"Kang Eun-Mi†. She invited me to sit and have a cup of coffee. She told me everything, from her exciting trips to her heartbreaks. She wasn’t a girl anymore, she was a woman. She told me that she is not the Kang Eun-Mi I used to know, she is now Jennifer Kang. But she is still the beautiful and graceful Kang Eun-Mi I still love so much. I was about to confess my love for her but she said she had another thing to say. I was excited to hear what it was. Maybe she won’t be going back to California. Maybe she was going to stay here and be with me. She inhaled deeply and extended to show a large diamond ring on her finger. My heart sank. She was engaged. She is to be wed to another man! It was then I realized that Kang Eun-Mi has returned to get married here. Then and there, a man appeared and sat down next to my Kang Eun-Mi. The beautiful and graceful Kang Eun-Mi was engaged to another man. She was in the arms of another person. She loved someone else. I was not sure how to react. I was not sure what to do. Should I take her away from that man? Should I punch him in the face for stealing someone who wasn’t even mine from the start? The painful memories of the first time I lost her to someone else flooded my mind. I was in shock. If only I had told her how I felt in time, would this happen? Everything felt like it was in the movies, everything felt like it was in slow motion. But I got dragged back to reality when I heard the words â€Å"best friend†. She wanted me to be at her wedding! I pretended to be happy for her. The day of the wedding came and everyone was happy. Everyone but me. I saw her walk down the aisle, she was beautiful and graceful like her name. It was the prettiest I have seen her. How I wished that it was I who was waiting for her at the altar. The way she looked at him crushed me. It felt like swords had pierced my heart when I heard them exchange their vows. My heart was cut it in a thousand tiny pieces when I saw them kiss. They were to have their honeymoon in Hawaii the next day. Eun-Mi asked me to accompany them to the airport. How I wish I declined. May 12th, I saw her for the last time. I gave her the tightest hug I could give her. I didn’t want to let go. I wanted it to be just like how it used to be, just the two of us. I have been in love with the same woman for 60 years. I just wish she knew. Eun-Mi, I have never married. I am going to wait for your return, no matter how long it will take. I will wait at the bus stop for you, no matter how hard the rain pours. The rain will just remind me of you. And even the slightest memory of you makes my heart jump with joy. But I always knew that you would never love me that way. You would never love me like how I love you. I am nothing but your best friend. Like how Jack never got Rose in the end, like Romeo who never got his Juliet. I will never get my Kang Eun-Mi, the woman who is as beautiful and as graceful as her name. Every time it rains, I think of no one or nothing else but you.