SEARCH · PubMed Health

Results for “Pilot Projects”

Explore indexed PubMed citations for clinical trials, systematic reviews and public health research. Read source abstracts and follow each citation to its original PubMed record.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 1,297 records · Page 72Linked to original sources

PubMed2005

Youth voices as change agents: moving beyond the medical model in school-based health center practice.

This article describes a 34-week pilot project aimed at improving health care service delivery for adolescents by offering youth a distinct role as advisory board members who help shape policy, provide feedback, guidance, and direction to a school-based health center (SBHC) program in Boston. Freshmen were recruited to participate in a Youth Advisory Board Project that included weekly afterschool meetings. Adult supervision was provided by SBHC staff that included 2 clinical social workers and 1 youth empowerment specialist. Through this effort, students were (1) trained in nonprofit board development and governance structures; (2) urged to identify gaps in services; (3) taught to select, prioritize, and implement action projects; and (4) offered clinical support around personal issues. Students brought a wealth of life experiences, knowledge of teen attitudes, information regarding trends in risk-taking behaviors, and feedback about experiences in the SBHC. In addition, their increased awareness of the SBHC service elements led to identification of obstacles to youth participation in care, feedback regarding positive and negative health care experiences within the SBHC, as well as with external health care providers, and ideas about unrecognized needs leading to gaps in services. This experience demonstrated that young health care consumers, with support, can focus their attention and begin to utilize analytical thinking skills to shape health outcomes and inform service delivery.

Adolescent↗

PubMedDate not supplied

A professionally led adoption triad group: an evolving approach to search and reunion.

In the field of postadoption services, counseling resources for reunited biological relatives are scarce. An adoption triad search and reunion pilot project at McGill University School of Social Work responded to this scarcity by providing the triad of adopted persons, biological parents, and adoptive parents with supportive counseling, and by conducting research on the outcomes. This article is an evaluative descriptive study of a mutualaid adoption triad group in search and reunion. The data were gathered through pre- and postintervention questionnaires and from process notes of the group meetings, which revealed five major themes. Results of the group experience, in terms of the feelings of the participants, were positive. The mutual-aid triad group can serve as a model for agencies and professionals seeking effective, affordable methods of providing postadoption search and reunion support services.

Adoption↗

PubMed2005

A sustainable approach towards rural development: dry toilets in Nepal.

Existing inadequate sewerage systems and direct disposal of household waste into water courses has tremendously increased water pollution. Dry toilets are feasible in rural and peri-urban areas to reduce the consumption of costlier water that is required for flushing. As conventional treatment technologies require high investment, and operation and maintenance costs, dry toilets are the only suitable option left for sanitation in the 21st century when working with limited financial resources. To reduce environmental degradation and overcome this problem, the dry toilet is only the realistic option in Nepal. Two reactors, one exposed to sunrays and the other without sunrays, were constructed. In the model with sunrays, it was found that in 48 days of observation faecal coliform presence depleted to 610 cells per gm from the initial value of 7 x 10(10) and volatile organic matter came down from 98.09% to 70.18%. Similarly, in the other model, the destruction of faecal coliform in 65 days was found to be 920 cells/gm while the destruction of organic matter took 75 days. Also, observing from 313 people in a cluster on the pilot project, the annually recovered value of N, P and K was found to be 1565 kg, 125 kg, 344 kg, respectively. This paper deals with the different types of dry ecological toilet, their performance and feasibility study in Nepal, with the full involvement of local people, based on complete laboratory analysis and regular monitoring. Using dry toilets will save 14 LPCD, which is equivalent to 14 MLD and the resulting demand will become only 80 MLD for the urban area of Kathmandu. The result advocates the implementation of ecological dry toilets to save valuable water wasted in flushing, as well as saving the resources needed to treat the waste.

Biodegradation, Environmental↗

PubMed1991

Nasal polyposis: in search of a viral etiology using DNA hybridization.

The etiology of nasal polyps is unknown. Numerous theories have been proposed, with allergic and infectious causes predominant. A viral theory was postulated almost 40 years ago. In a pilot project, we studied 15 subjects comprising six controls and nine patients with nasal polyps. No known viruses were cultured from the nasal polyp tissue or nasal mucosal biopsies from the control subjects. DNA Hybridization for Epstein-Barr Virus, Herpes simplex virus, adenovirus type V, and Chlamydia trachomatis were also negative for all tissue studied. The use of molecular biological techniques is not widespread in otolaryngology and this is the first report, to the best of our knowledge, of the application of these techniques for the investigation of the viral etiology of nasal polyps.

Adult↗

PubMed2005

Airmed-cardio: a GSM and Internet services-based system for out-of-hospital follow-up of cardiac patients.

A platform built around three information entities (patient, health-care_agent, and central_station) was designed to enable patients with chronic heart disease (in stable condition; emergency situations were excluded deliberately) to complete specifically defined protocols for out-of-hospital follow-up and monitoring. The patients belonged to one of four specific risk groups: arterial hypertension, malignant arrhythmias, heart failure, and postinfarction rehabilitation. They were provided with portable recording equipment and a cellular phone that supported data transmission [electrocardiogram (ECG)] and wireless application protocol (WAP) (remaining parameters and ad hoc questionnaires). The central station was an automatized platform, with no human operator. The information received was organized chronologically in patient folders. The health-care_agents had continuous and secure access to the patient folders, through tools based on the world wide web and WAP, and to short messages sent by their patients. A pilot project was conducted with 89 patients (mean length of participation: 50.1 days). A total of 2168 ECGs (mean duration transmission = 2 min/30 s; network errors < 0.1%) and 4011 short messages (none lost, in 95% of cases 30 s < delay < 1 min) were transmitted; 6083 WAP sessions (mean duration = 3 min 11 s; network failures < 0.1%) were The functionality of the platform was also evaluated, analyzing the subjective component of usability, showing the evolution of patient acceptance over time.

Cell Phone↗

PubMed2004

Improving the physical status and quality of life of women treated for breast cancer: a pilot study of a structured exercise intervention.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This pilot project assessed the acceptability of a mixed-type, moderate-intensity exercise programme following breast cancer treatment, and the impact on presence of lymphoedema, fitness, body composition, fatigue, mood and quality of life. METHODS: Ten women completed the programme and measures of fitness (sub-maximal ergometer test), body composition (bio-electrical impedance), lympoedema (bio-electrical impedance and arm circumferences), fatigue (revised Piper Fatigue Scale), mood (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), quality of life (FACT-B) and general well-being, at baseline, completion of the programme, and 6-week and 3-month follow-up. RESULTS: Participation in the programme caused no adverse effect on the presence of lymphoedema. There was a trend towards reduction in fatigue and improved quality of life across the testing phases. Women rated the programme extremely favourably, citing benefits of the support of other women, trained guidance, and the opportunity to experience different types of exercise. CONCLUSIONS: A mixed-type, moderate-intensity exercise program in a group format is acceptable to women following breast cancer treatment, with the potential to reduce fatigue and improve quality of life, without exacerbating or precipitating lymphoedema. This pilot work needs to be confirmed in larger randomised studies.

Adult↗

PubMed2000

Development of three African language translations of the FACT-G.

This pilot study investigated the feasibility of translating a quality of life instrument, the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy--General version (FACT-G) and the breast cancer version (FACT-B), which consists of the FACT-G plus 10 additional items, into three South African languages (Pedi, Tswana, and Zulu). The international, interdisciplinary research team hypothesized that we could develop reliable and valid translations, and that valuable information could be gleaned from the responses of the three groups of traditional African people, which could inform the Western-trained medical profession. Understanding of cross-cultural views of cancer including its diagnosis and treatment could lead to better communication between the two cultures (Western and Traditional) resulting in increased utilization of Western medical treatment and increased treatment compliance by three of the underserved black populations. A total of 167 respondents completed one of three translated questionnaires, which assessed the patients' quality of life in 5 domains: Physical Well-Being, Social and Family Well-Being, Relationship with Doctor, Emotional Well-Being, and Functional Well-Being, plus for breast cancer patients the additional items on the FACT-B. However, only the items from the FACT-G (the 'core' of the FACT-B) were statistically analyzed for this pilot project. Results showed that it was possible to develop a reliable instrument in the three languages by modifying the standard translation methodology. Translation of physical and functional concepts was most straightforward. Translation of emotional items posed some difficulty. As expected, based upon observations about cultural differences in social values and functioning, the Social/Family Well-Being subscale was problematic. Analysis of this subscale provides information on cultural differences which may be important to physicians desiring to effectively treat this population with sensitivity and dignity. Methodology may be generalizable to other third world patient populations in translation of existing health status questionnaires.

Adult↗

PubMed1996

Issues inherent in measuring the impact of care coordination on pregnancy outcomes.

Care coordination is a Medicaid benefit designed to help low-income women gain access to pregnancy-related services. Measuring the outcomes of care coordination is hampered because experimental designs are difficult to carry out on entitlement programs. The purpose of this study was to examine whether a care coordination-adequacy index, based on number of home visits, onset of home visits, and weeks' gestation at delivery, would outperform a simple count of the number of home visits in predicting birthweight. Data from a pilot project in Indianapolis were used. The adequacy index outperformed "number of home visits" in the prediction of birthweight with this sample. Those who received intermediate level of care coordination delivered infants weighing 162 g more than those who received inadequate care coordination. The adequate level of care coordination did not predict birthweight, which may have resulted from an insufficient number of participants in this category (n = 20). An inherent selection bias based on the length of gestation when admitted to the program is also discussed. Research on care coordination with clear delineation of the measurement issues involved must continue to ensure effective program design and continued funding.

Adolescent↗

PubMedDate not supplied

Perceived control and psychosocial/physiological functioning in African American elders with type 2 diabetes.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this pilot study was to assess (1) the reliability of the revised Wallhagen Perceived Control Questionnaire (PCQ-R), derived from a person-environment perspective, in a sample of elderly African Americans > or = 60 years with Type 2 diabetes and (2) the relationship between the PCQ-R and psychosocial and physiological functioning. METHODS: A descriptive, cross-sectional, pilot project was conducted with a convenience sample of 23 African Americans with Type 2 diabetes. Variables included health status, the PCQ-R, the Medical Outcomes Survey Short Form 36, and glycosylated hemoglobin. RESULTS: The PCQ-R was reliable and significantly related to physical and social functioning, physical and emotional role involvement, mental health, vitality, and general health perception. No relationship was found with metabolic control. CONCLUSIONS: Findings support the reliability of the PCQ-R and the conceptualization of control. However, confirmation is needed in a larger sample, and questions that emerged require further exploration.

Adaptation, Psychological↗

PubMed1996

Assessing substance abuse treatment needs among the homeless: a telephone-based interactive voice response system.

OBJECTIVES: We report on a pilot project that used a telephone-based interactive voice response system accessed by cellular phones at diverse sites, to interview homeless persons on their need for alcohol and other drug treatment. METHODS: Using this technique we surveyed 207 homeless adults at eight shelters in Cleveland, Ohio. RESULTS: The cellular approach was comparable to human-administered interviews in reliability and validity and yielded higher self-reported levels of drug use. CONCLUSIONS: Cellular telephones and interactive voice response interviewing systems can be useful tools in assessing for the health-service needs of difficult-to-reach populations.

Adult↗

PubMed1992

A pilot model of vaccination against hepatitis B virus suitable for mass vaccination campaigns in hyperendemic areas.

A hepatitis B vaccination campaign was carried out in a town of 60,000 inhabitants, Afragola, Campania, Italy, a hyperendemic area for hepatitis B where HBsAg prevalence was 13.4% and anti-HBc prevalence was 64.7%. This experimental pilot project aimed to reduce the incidence of both acute and asymptomatic viral hepatitis B and of related chronic liver complications. From 1983-1989, 8,400 subjects were vaccinated: 6,900 children up to 10 years of age and 1,500 subjects from 11-60 years of age. High seroconversion rates were observed: 99.0% in all children under one year of age, 96.0% in the older children, and 86.7% in adults. The rate of infection in Afragola has diminished from 63/100,000 in 1983 to 10/100,000 in 1989. Carriers of HBsAg decreased in the general population (7.3% compared to 13.4%), especially in children up to 10 years of age (1.0% compared to 9.0%). In babies who received hepatitis B vaccine at the same time as compulsory vaccinations compliance was 98% while it was 80% in babies who were vaccinated separately. In June 1991 the Italian Parliament promulgated a decree which imposes hepatitis B vaccination for all newborn babies at 3, 5, and 11 months of age, at the same times as the mandatory childhood vaccinations (diphtheria, tetanus, and polio) according to a new protocol (Piazza scheme) which has been in use since January 1987 in our pilot vaccination campaign in Afragola.

Adolescent↗

PubMed2001

[Can homeopathy be integrated in a university hospital?].

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital Munich has conducted a pilot project for 4 years, aiming at the integration of homeopathic concomitant treatment into daily clinical practice. This study was carried out to clarify whether the project is successful and accepted by physicians, nurses, and parents. METHODS: Questionnaires, all standardized and anonymous, were handed out to 137 physicians, 212 nurses and paramedics, and 1,048 parents of children treated at the hospital. RESULTS: 69% of the physicians appreciated concomitant homeopathic treatments, more than 60% believed the integration of homeopathy is suggestive, 75% saw a need for clinical research in homeopathy. 25% of the staff now had a more positive view towards homeopathy. 63% of the parents appreciated concomitant treatment, but only 19% are willing to participate in double-blind studies. CONCLUSIONS: Integration of homeopathy in a university hospital is possible. Therapeutic work should be accompanied by scientific research.

Attitude to Health↗

PubMed1999

Identifying strategies for managing urinary incontinence with women who have multiple sclerosis.

The aim of this pilot project was to identify strategies for managing incontinence with women who have multiple sclerosis (MS). The project used the formation of a group in which eight women with MS and four Continence Nurse Advisers (CNAs) and the first author were brought together. In the course of the research process, the women found a voice on a topic previously thought of as taboo. When they realized that they had suffered alone and in silence they felt empowered to act. In this way, the methodology evolved from group work into a participatory action research process (PAR), as the group initiated action. Participants formed a self-help group, and continued to meet with each other after the research had run its course.

Activities of Daily Living↗

PubMed2003

Evaluation of a dental health education program for midwives.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of a dental health program for the midwives in primary health care services in Izmir, Turkey. METHODS: One hundred sixty-four midwives participated in the pilot project. The program was evaluated by quantitative and qualitative methods. The quantitative method assessed the improvement of the dental knowledge level, whereas the qualitative method was conducted to determine the assessments of the participants. RESULTS: The percentages of correct responses given to knowledge items were higher after the program. The midwives defined their role as an important first step for dental services. Education atmosphere was the best characteristic of the program, whereas lack of a written document was an important limitation. CONCLUSION: Despite some limitations, the program was an effective way of improving the oral health knowledge of the midwives and their motivation for dental services.

Adult↗

PubMed2004

Body image treatment for weight concerned smokers: a pilot study.

In this pilot project, 41 female weight-concerned smokers were randomly assigned to receive either 12 group sessions of cognitive behavioral therapy for body image concerns or 12 group sessions for weight management. All subjects received open-label bupropion SR, 300 mg daily, exercise instruction, and weekly behavioral counseling for tobacco cessation. At week 12, 7(35%) of the body image participants had 7-day point prevalence smoking abstinence, compared to 5(24%) of the participants in the weight management group (p=0.505).

Adult↗

PubMed2002

Nursing alumni as student mentors: nurturing professional growth.

Mentorship is a commonly used strategy for role and career development that has potential benefits for students in undergraduate nursing programs. In contrast to preceptorship, which generally involves clinical supervision and performance evaluation, mentorship is more focused on sharing and nurturing to promote personal and professional growth. This article describes a mentoring program at McMaster University School of Nursing in Canada in which baccalaureate nursing students are mentored by alumni from the same nursing program. Following a successful pilot project with level one students, the program was expanded to include nursing students in all levels who were interested in having a mentor. Both student mentees and alumni mentors have reported positive outcomes. Students felt supported in making personal, academic and career decisions whereas alumni found satisfaction in providing this supportive function, having re-connection with their alma matter, and sharing their professional experience and knowledge. Given the prospective gains not only for the individuals who take part in mentorship programs but also for the profession and beyond, consideration should be given to providing opportunities for nursing students to be mentored during their formative years.

Attitude of Health Personnel↗

PubMed1993

Syringe and needle exchange programs worldwide: Part II.

The first large-scale syringe and needle exchange (SANE) programs were established in The Netherlands and in the United Kingdom (UK) about 8 years ago. Since then, SANE programs have been established in Australia, Sweden, Canada, and the United States. To date, the most useful data concerning the impact of these programs have come from studies in the UK and from New Haven, San Francisco, Tacoma, and New York City in the US. Successful SANE programs require careful planning; those in charge should be familiar with the accomplishments, problems, and goals of established programs. Advance publicity and involvement of community activists, the local police precinct, and ward or district politicians are imperative for overcoming misunderstandings and prejudices and fostering a team approach. Pilot projects must be adequately funded. Other requirements include accessible facilities, convenient hours of operation (including evening hours), provision of mobile units if at all possible, and provision for sanitary disposal of discarded injection equipment in the neighborhood around the SANE programs. Programs also should have a strong evaluation component, preferably staffed by an independent university-affiliated research center. Periodic site visits are necessary to ensure that services promised in the protocol are actually delivered not only initially, but also over time. Problems with security and drug dealing in and around the building where the SANE program is located are likely, and appropriate measures should be taken to counter them.

Adult↗

PubMed1999

Economic evaluation of voice recognition for the clinicians' desktop at the Naval Hospital Roosevelt Roads.

This study investigated the voice recognition (VR) pilot project conducted at the Naval Hospital Roosevelt Roads during 1996 and 1997. The objective of the analysis was to determine the viability and economic benefits of using a commercial, off-the-shelf VR application as a clinician's input device for transcribing clinical encounter notes. Results show that VR technology provides numerous benefits, such as resulting in more thorough clinical encounter notes, eliminating the need to hire medical transcriptionists, and reducing graphic user interface overload on the Windows-based Military Health Service Systems. In addition, our findings indicate that the use of computer technology during clinical encounters has no significant effect on patient-clinician relationships.

Cost-Benefit Analysis↗