NURSING TOOL BOX SERIES

 ARVs DRUG CLASSES Here are detailed notes on ARV drug classes, their side effects, and Differentiated Service Delivery (DSD) models for treatment and care: ARV Drugs: Classes and Side Effects Antiretroviral (ARV) drugs are used to manage HIV/AIDS by reducing the viral load and preventing disease progression. They are classified into several classes based on their mechanism of action. Classes of ARV Drugs Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs): Examples: Zidovudine (AZT), Lamivudine (3TC), Tenofovir (TDF), Emtricitabine (FTC). Mechanism: Inhibits reverse transcriptase by incorporating faulty nucleotides, halting viral replication. Side Effects: Anemia, lactic acidosis, lipodystrophy, nephrotoxicity (e.g., TDF), nausea, and headache. Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NNRTIs): Examples: Efavirenz (EFV), Nevirapine (NVP), Etravirine (ETR). Mechanism: Binds directly to reverse transcriptase, causing conformational changes that prevent its a...

  CONCEPT OF NORMAL & ABNORMAL BEHAVIOUR Introduction What is Behaviour? Behaviour refers to the manner in which a person acts or conducts themselves, especially in response to situations or stimuli. It can be evaluated based on conformity to societal standards, norms, and expectations. Types of Behaviour Normal Behaviour : Normal behaviour is perceived as natural, routine, or regular. It aligns with societal expectations and is often associated with positive and functional actions. Abnormal Behaviour : Abnormal behaviour refers to activities or actions that deviate from societal norms. These behaviours are often considered undesirable, uncommon, or indicative of issues ranging from birth defects to mental illnesses. Characteristics of Normal Behaviour Marie Jahoda (1958) outlined six characteristics that define mental health and normal behaviour: Efficient self-perception Realistic self-esteem and acceptance Voluntary control of behaviour True perception of the world Sustainin...

                                            Types of Research Gaps 1. Theoretical Gap Definition: A discrepancy between existing theories or models and observed phenomena. Examples: Lack of studies examining the relationship between variable X and variable Y. How to Address: Conduct further research to test existing theories or develop new theoretical frameworks that better align with observed data. 2. Methodological Gap Definition: Insufficiency or inadequacy in the methods used to investigate a research question. Examples: Absence of studies utilizing qualitative methods in the field. How to Address: Review and refine research methodologies, consider alternative approaches, or combine methods to address limitations and provide robust results. 3. Empirical Gap Definition: Missing data or evidence needed to fully understand or explain a phenomenon. Examples: Li...