Showing papers in "Journal of Military Medicine in 2010"

Relationship of job satisfaction and organizational commitment in hospital nurses

Abstract: Aims: Organizational commitment and job satisfaction are two important factors in predicting and understanding organizational behavior and their analysis can help supervisors to identify the potential problems. Organization’s staffs are the index of organization’s superiority . This study was conducted to investigate the relationships between job satisfaction and organizational commitment in Iranian hospital nurses. Methods: In a descriptive correlation study, 132 nurses with certificate higher than Associate Degree (AD), with formal membership and at least 3 years of experience in the company, participated. Data were collected by Luthans job satisfaction and Allen & Meyer organizational commitment questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Chi-square test and SPSS 11 software. Results: 43.17% of nurses were satisfied with their job and 40.17% of nurses had organizational commitment. There was a significant correlation between job satisfaction and organizational commitment (p<0.001), also there was a significant correlation between organizational commitment and housing and marriage status, but it was not correlated with sex, education and organizational post. Likewise, job satisfaction had significant correlation with education, marital status and sex, but hadn’t significant correlation with other demographic variables. Conclusion: Presence of some factors which result in staff motivation and encouraging behavior of manager and the leadership style can be effective on organizational commitment and job satisfaction.

Effect of education based on trans-theoretical model on promoting physical activity and increasing physical work capacity

Abstract: Aims: Increasing physical activity is one of the most effective ways of reducing the risk of some chronic non-contagious diseases. Various methods have been created and validated in order to assess the factors effecting physical activity. The most applied method for this purpose is the Trans-Theoretical Model (TTM). This study was performed with the aim of assessing the effect of educational program for increasing physical activity and physical capacity by using TTM in one of governmental centers employees. Methods: This quasi-experimental interventional study was performed on employees of a defensive industry in year 2009. 60 male employees aged between 20 – 57 years old were selected by simple random sampling. They were divided into two groups (each containing 30 employees), the experimental and the control group. Questionnaires were completed before and three months after intervention and physical capacity was measured by Ergo-meter bicycle. Educational programs were implied in experimental group. Data was analyzed by SPSS 13. Results: In stage of change after intervention, the experimental group had a significant positive progress (p=0.001). Mean physical capacity score had significant improvement after finishing educational program, in experimental group (p=0.016). Self–efficacy and total decisional balance and process of change scores were higher after intervention in experimental group (p<0.001). Conclusion: TTM based educational programs are effective in improving physical capacity and physical activity of governmental center employees .

Epidemiology of cutaneous leishmaniasis in damghan district

Abstract: Aims: Cutaneous leishmaniasis is one of the most important diseases transmitted by sand fly and has been one of the most important health problems in Iran. Determining the epidemiological aspects of disease is important for planning of control program. This study was carried out to describe the cutaneous leishmaniases situation in Damghan district. Methods: This descriptive-analytical survey was performed on all confirmed and recorded cutaneous leishmaniasis cases (465 people) diagnosed during 2006-09 in Damghan district . Patients’ information such as age, sex, nationality, habitat, number and sites of ulcer(s), month and years of incidence were registered and analyzed by Chi-square test using SPSS 12 software. Results: Of 465 under care patients, 263 cases (56.5%) were men and 202 people (43.5%) were women.148 patients (31.8%) resided in urban areas, while 317 (68.2%) lived in rural areas. The most frequent age group was 20-29 years old (22%). Hands and feet were the most common sites of ulcer (84%). 46% of the patients had two or more ulcers. Highest disease prevalence (84.8%) was observed in months October, December and November. Conclusion: Cutaneous leishmaniasis is an endemic disease in desert rural areas and is developing in suburban parts of Damghan therefore, comprehensive planning for control and prevention of the disease is necessary.

Patients’ satisfaction from health care group in patient’s bill of right observance

Abstract: Aims: Neglecting patients’ bill of rights and patients’ dissatisfaction causes delay in recovery and irritability and also increases hospitalization period and costs. This study was done with the aim of evaluating patients’ satisfaction about implementation of patients’ bill of rights by health care team. Methods: This descriptive-analytic study was performed on 384 inpatients of Tehran Army Hospitals in year 2008. Research units were selected by quota sampling. Data was collected by interviewing patients and documenting the answers in a researcher-made questionnaire. Data were analyzed by SPSS 15. Results: 8% of patients were not satisfied with physicians and 17.2% of them were not satisfied with nurses. 62.5% of patients were satisfied with health care team of the morning shift. Increased hospitalization days reduced patients’ satisfaction with physician’s function (19%) and nurse’s function (50%). Patients who were hospitalized in open heart surgery wards had the highest level of satisfaction and patents with lower education levels (under diploma) had more satisfaction. Conclusion: Patients’ satisfaction depends on length of hospitalization, wards, members of medical team (physicians and nurses) and patients’ education level.

Rate of preparedness in confronting cisis in three selected border hospitals

Abstract: Aims: Always in the different parts of the world including Iran, unexpected events happen and there is the possibility of their occurrence in different societies with the different violence and intensity. This study was conducted to investigate the level of preparedness of border hospitals in confrontation with crisis in Iran. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in three selected border hospitals in 2009. Data were collected by a researcher-made questionnaire. The reliability of the questionnaire was confirmed by Alpha Cronbach's alpha test ( � =90.6). Finally data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency distribution tables, means and etc). Results: From among the total 11 dimensions studied in the selected hospitals, hospital A with the mean score of 87/1 percent, hospital B with mean score of 77/59 percent and Finally hospital C by mean score of 70/01 percent had the preparedness of confrontation with crisis. In general, the average of preparedness scores in confrontation with crisis in three studied hospitals was 78/23 percent. Conclusion: Preparedness of hospitals were in good status in more dimensions (7 of 11 dimensions), and only in dimensions of responding to injuries' need, maneuvers, admission and transfer and release were in medium status.

Assessing level of Preparedness for disaster in hospitals of a selected medical sciences university -1388

Abstract: Aims: Medical centers, especially hospitals need readiness in order to fulfill their mission in disasters as the most important settings for treatment of wounded and injured people. Therefore, this study was performed to assess the readiness level of some selected hospitals of Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in 30 selected hospitals of Iran in year 2009. Data was collected by a validated 220 questions checklist taken from a master degree thesis. Reliability of the checklist was confirmed with Kappa test. Data was analyzed by SPSS 15, using descriptive statistics and a five-section Likert scale. Results: Mean scores of 10 units of hospitals such as admission, safety, evacuation and transport, staffing, communication, traffic, emergency, training, logistic, and management were respectively 21, 45, 49, 44.5, 54, 49, 64.5, 68.5, 70, and 80%. Generally, the average readiness score for all hospitals was 54.5%. Conclusion: The readiness level of studied hospitals is good in emergency, training, logistic and management units. Readiness level is medium in safety, evacuation and transport, staffing, communication and traffic and is weak in admission, according to Likert scale.

Effective factors on organizational citizenship behavior in a military hospital

Abstract: Aims: The concept of organizational citizenship behavior and its associated factors, despite high importance especially in military hospitals, have received little attention. This research was conducted to analyze the most important organizational factors that can direct behaviors, attitudes and interactions of nurses in order to promote organizational citizenship behavior in a military hospital. Methods: This is an applied descriptive study of correlation type, based on the structural equation model. From 504 nurses of a military hospital, 140 nurses were selected by systematic random sampling. The questionnaires of Constant Beugre 's for organizational justice, Potter ’s for organizational commitment, Scott ’s for organizational trust, Hackman & Oldham ’s for job satisfaction and finally, Organ ’s for the organizational citizenship behavior were used. Regarding the normality of data distribution, SPSS 16 software was used for data analysis. Results: From two paths of job satisfaction and organizational trust, only job satisfaction path was completely confirmed in the influence of various organizational trust on the organizational citizenship behavior (p<0.05). Conclusion: Organizational justice (especially distributional justice) and organizational trust should be supported and reinforced in military hospitals. To improve the organizational trust condition, necessary efforts for more employees’ support and participation in organizational decision makings and affaires are suggested, and also periodical meetings for creating harmony and agreement among managers and nurses are recommended. Also, Individual’s physical and spiritual needs should be more satisfied by means of planning and measures after diagnosing injustice perception factors, in order to strengthen distributive justice’s perception.

Comparison the effect of conventional and distance training on nurses' clinical skills

Abstract: Aims: Education entails the familiarity with professional duties that should perform practically. The major part of staff's learning includes acquiring information, skills and new ideas in the relevant job. This study was conducted to compare the nurses' clinical skills, after conventional and distance training. Methods: In a semi experimental survey, 60 nurses were selected from one of the hospitals in Tehran in 1386 using the goal-oriented method. After two methods of training, i.e., conventional (lecture) and distance (multimedia CD) methods for evaluation and comparison of nurses' clinical skills the Objective Structured Clinical Exam has been used. After the preparation and validation of evaluating check lists, Objective Structured Clinical Exam stations were designed and then the practical skills of two groups were compared. Data were analyzed using SPSS 15 software, descriptive statistics and independent T-test. Results: No significant difference was observed among the nurses' clinical skills mean scores in training with lecture and multimedia CD (p>0.05). Conclusion: Two methods of training, i.e., lecture and multimedia CD have the same effect in improvement of nurses' clinical skills and Objective Structured Clinical Exam is an effective method in nurses' clinical skills evaluation.

Individual factors affecting military forces job satisfaction

Abstract: Aims: Job satisfaction is one of the most challenging organizational concepts and the basis of many policies and guidelines of management for promoting the efficiency and productivity of organization. This research was conducted to determine the personal factors that affect soldiers' job satisfaction. Methods: This research was a descriptive- analytical study and its participants were 165 soldiers that were selected according to stratified proportional sampling design from military forces. In order to assess job satisfaction, Visoky & Crom job satisfaction questionnaire was used after some revisions and modifications in its items. The obtained data were analyzed at descriptive and inferential levels. Results: In the domain of personality characteristics positive, decisive and active individuals had higher job satisfaction in contrast with the other two groups (i.e. Inactive, negative and aggressive). The education level, months being in service as a soldier, the kind of membership in Basij, and the class of job had a significant relationship with job satisfaction. Conclusion: job satisfaction is a variable which is affected by personality characteristics and factors such as the education level, months being as soldier, the kind of membership, and the class of job and these factors are effective in increase of soldiers' satisfaction and thereby their increased performance.

Epidemiology of physical injuries resulted from military training course

Abstract: Aims: This study was conducted to assess the prevalence rate and causes of physical injuries among trainee personnel during the physical fitness practices course. Methods: In this retrospective-descriptive study, 5559 formal personnel who were trained in the three educational garrisons during the last three educational years (September 2005 to September 2007) were selected by census method and were analyzed as the sample of this study. Using a researcher-made questionnaire from the present records and documents based on diseases classification system, the data were collected, codified and finally analyzed by SPSS 15 software. Results: Most of injuries were musculoskeletal injuries (96.2%) and the most common type of injuries was superficial injuries (42.1%). The most often injured body area was the ankle and foot area (27.6%). Most injuries had been happened in sport hall (23.8%). The prevalence rate of given injuries during military training were the first (4.9%), second(2.5%) and third(3.2%) years. the most common causes of injury during the military training were slipping or falling during training activities (33.5%). Conclusion: Musculoskeletal injuries were the major cause of referring to clinic and the most prevalence type of physical injuries in military personnel during the military trainings. Prevention is considered as the first step toward reducing the traumatic events.

Risk factors of low bone mineral density in premenopausal women

Abstract: Aims: Osteoporosis is the most common metabolic bone disease, which is defined as a decrease in bone mass. This disease is known with the change and destruction or reduction of skeletal structure and increased risk of fracture. This study was conducted to investigate the risk factors in decreasing bone density in premenopausal women. Methods: In a descriptive cross-sectional study, 644 premenopausal women of military families who were referred to bone densitometry center of a hospital in Tehran participated in the research. Then, based on bone densitometry results the participants were divided into two groups: bone density loss 9 case groups) and normal bone density (control group). The information associated with risk factors of bone density loss were collected by osteoporosis Canadian standard questionnaire and was analyzed with chi square test and T-test. Results: Amount of spinal osteoporosis was 8.9% and the rate of osteopenia in these areas was 53.4%. There was significant difference between the case and control groups among the risk factors in calcium deficiency, lactose intolerance, history of corticosteroid drugs, methotrexate, anticonvulsants, disease of rheumatoid arthritis, hyperthyroidism, thalassemia minor and lower than 58kg weight. Conclusion: The factors such as diet and the lack of consumption of dairy products, pharmaceutical parameters including corticosteroids and Methotrexate and glandular or rheumatologic diseases are among the important and effective factors in reduction of bone density in postmenopausal women.

Concept and quality of life construct elements in chemical injured: A qualitative study

Abstract: Aims: The delayed complications of mustard gas poisoning begin after several months even to several years after exposure. One of the highly principal concepts in the chronic diseases is the quality of life of the patients. The aim of this study was to clarify the concept and construct elements of quality of life in the chemical patients with mustard gas. Methods: In this descriptive study with qualitative approach, 20 injured male and female (military and non- military) which were in the chronic disease phase were selected based on purposive sampling. The study was conducted with semi structured individual interview and focused group discussion. The data were analyzed using content analysis method and key concepts were extracted. Results: A group of participants considered health as physical, intellectual and ability of perform duties and common expectations from every person and the other group considered it as having welfare and general comfort. Chronicity of disease in the chemical patients and delayed effects of the disease had led to changes in all aspects of their health so that they had been affected with serious physical troubles especially in the respiratory organs, skin, eyes, etc. Conclusion: The quality of life is a relative concept influenced by the disease nature (physical, psychological, emotional and social health), health concept (wellness, Personal efficacy and Welfare) and adaptation factors.

Relation between leadership style and organizational culture and commitment in military forces

Abstract: Aims: Efficient human resource, due to its value is a matter of concern of reliable organizations and institutions, and recruitment of human resource requires competent leaders and the use of effective leadership styles, in order to enhance the organizational commitment and creating a desirable organizational culture. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between leadership style and organizational culture and commitment. Methods: The present study is a cross-sectional one and was conducted by correlation method on 237 employees of a military force using random sampling method. The leadership style was analyzed based on multi- factorial leadership questionnaire (MLQ), organizational culture based on the Queen & Garrett model and organizational commitment based on the Meyer & Allen model. Data were analyzed using the SPSS 11 software and one-way ANOVA test and Pearson correlation coefficient. Results: From the staffs' point of view, the leadership style used by the commanders was interactive or exchange style. The dominant organizational culture was rational culture. The highest mean score of organizational commitment was attributed to obligating commitment. There was significant and positive relationship between the exchange and change-inducing leadership style and organizational culture and commitment. There was a significant and inverse relationship between the laissez-faire leadership style (free) and organizational culture and commitment. Conclusion: Leadership style used in military forces is associated with organizational culture and commitment of forces that can be direct or inverse.

Satisfaction rate of hospitalized patients in military hospitals from presented services

Abstract: Aims: The patients' viewpoint is as important as that of managers and planners of health system in promoting the quality of treatment services. The present study was conducted to investigate hospitalized patients' satisfaction from the hospital services in 6 military hospitals located in different parts of the country. Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 696 hospitalized patients were selected from 6 military hospitals located in different parts of country (116 patients from each hospital), using random sampling method from July to September 2001. After the release, a checklist containing personal demographic information and a questionnaire determining the patients' satisfaction level from hospital services were completed for all patients. Answers were designed in Likert 5-point scale of "completely dissatisfied" (1 point) to "completely satisfied" (5points). At the final analysis, the point 3 and the lower were considered as dissatisfaction and more than 3 as satisfaction from services. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi square test. Results: 684 patients (98.2%) of referred patients were satisfied with the hospital services. Patients' satisfaction from hospital services had statistically significant difference in different parts (p=0.013). The most number of "dissatisfied" and "completely dissatisfied" were related to welfare facilities and the least number was related to medical services. Conclusion: Bedridden patients have a desirable satisfaction from military hospitals' services. Managers need to pay special attention to the reform of administrative processes and development of insurance services beside the acceptable medical and nursing services.

Stressor and their relative variables in militants

Abstract: Aims. Stress is a phenomenon that has different density and rate according to demographic and geographic situation and increases in hard labor condition or bad climate places. The aim of this study was to rank stressors and determine the relation between demographic variables and stressors in a group of militants. Methods. This descriptive correlation study performed in a group of militants in one of the regions of Iran. 766 militants were selected by clustered based on proportion method. Instruments were researcher-made and demographic questionnaires . Data was analyzed by SPSS 11 software and correlation test, variance analysis and Scheffe test . aphic variables with stressors. The highest rankings in stressors were temperature and lack of expert physicians and appropriate clinics. The relation of stress rate with age and level of education was not significant but the relation between psychological stresses rate and work experience was significant. Conclusion. Geographic and demographic variables affect the stress rate of militants. Regional or problems related to geographical and climatic conditions are the most important stressors in militants.

Evaluation of secondary post traumatic stress disorder in chemical warfare victims' children

Abstract: Aims: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is a problem which affects both victims’ and their families’ quality of life and experiencing Injury by each family member can affect other members of the family. This study was performed to evaluate the symptoms of secondary Post Traumatic Stress Disorder among chemical warfare victims’ children. Methods: This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was performed on 528 residents of Sardasht in year 2009. All chemical warfare victims’ children of Sardasht were evaluated in order to enter the study as case group. 5 districts of Sardasht were selected using cluster random method, from which 600 families were selected using systematic random method. Totally, 528 were eligible to take part in the study (286 as case group and 242 as control group). Presence of secondary Post Traumatic Stress Disorder symptoms was evaluated in both groups, using Mississippi questionnaire. Data was analyzed by SPSS 14. Results: The total Mississippi score was 128.88±13.92 in chemical warfare victims' children and 108.34±22.70 in control group (p The total Mississippi score in chemical victims (case group's fathers) was higher than control group's fathers (p Scores showed no significant differences between different age groups and genders. Conclusion: Fathers’ Post Traumatic Stress Disorder due to chemical warfare transfers to their children and must be prevented and treated as a serious problem.

Application of safety signs in controling unsafe acts rate

Abstract: Aims: The increasing fashion of development and the use of modern and sophisticated technology, despite several benefits, causes numerous problems in the field of health and safety; from which, the most important one is the increase in the rate of accidents and occupational diseases. The main goal of this study was to evaluate the unsafe behaviors among a defense industry staffs in Iran and assess the role of warning signs in reduction of mentioned behaviors. Methods: This intervention study was carried out in one of the defense industries in Iran. At the first stage, using safety behavior sampling technique, behavior of 623 staffs working at studied unit was evaluated. At the second stage, after analysis of collected data, the frequency of each unsafe behavior and their proportion in the whole unsafe behaviors was obtained and then their probable relationships with some demographic features were investigated. Safety behaviors were calculated before and after (2 & 4 months) installation of standard safety signs (ANSI). Results: Before intervention, 52.1% of behaviors were unsafe. The most frequent ones were the abuse or lack of the use of personal protective equipments, inappropriate postures and incorrect use of manual tools. However, after 2 and 4 months from intervention, unsafe behaviors rate reduced to 33.2 and 38.7%, respectively. Conclusion: The use of safety signs has significant impact on reducing unsafe behaviors in staffs; however, its effectiveness is reduced over the time.

Comparison of HACCP implementation requirements in nutrition department of two military and non-military health-treatment centers

Abstract: Aims. Existence of HACCP system in nutrition department is one of the important factors for evaluation of health-treatment service providers. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the HACCP implementation requirements in nutrition departments of two military and non-military health -treatment centers . Methods. In this cross-sectional study for analyzing five main axes a researcher-made questionnaire was designed ant filled after confirming its reliability and validity by interview. Data was analyzed by SPSS 17 and Mann-Whitney test. Results. Military and non-military health-treatment centers had 77.8 and 70.8% of HACCP implementation requirements and the mean score of all five axes were 3.89 ± 1.4 and 3.54 ± 1.61, respectively. Among variables of study, only the amount of public health (from third axis) had a significant difference between two health-treatment centers (p Conclusion. Implementation of HACCP system is necessary in health-treatment centers and it has positive impact to improve the health of staff and patients in both satisfaction and efficiency.

Comparison of teeth parameters and their related factors in 6-12 year old children

Abstract: Aims: Recognizing tooth health condition in each region is essential in order to take prevention measures. Dental exam is the most effective way of determining tooth health condition. The aim of this study was to determine decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT and dmft) indices and their related factors in 6- to 12-year-old children of military and non-military personnel. Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive-analytical survey was performed on 201 of 6- to 12-year-old children of military and 200 of 6- to 12-year-old children of non-military personnel referred to Imam Khomeini dental clinic in Tehran in year 2009. Dental exam was done by a dentist and results were recorded in world health organization standard form. Data was analyzed by SPSS 11. Results: Overall 9359 teeth were examined. Frequency of decayed, missing and filled teeth were 1224 (23%), 185 (4%) and 695 (13%), respectively. Frequency of decayed, missing and filled teeth were 238 (8%), 0 (0.0%) and 162 (4%), respectively. In general, mean dmft and DMFT were 5.29±3.52 and 1.01±1.47, respectively. Conclusion: Mean of DMFT and dmft indices don’t have a significant statistical difference in military and non-military personnel’s children. Tooth decay has a significant correlation with age, parents’ educational level, birth order and primary prevention dental care. These factors should be considered extensively in order to keep children’s teeth healthy.

Evaluation of medical alumni dissertations of one of the medical sciences universities in principles of writing

Abstract: هديکچ فادها : مهم زا يکي هاگشناد يشهوژپ عبانم نيرت ناياپ ،اه همان اه تسه دن . هتشر رد شهوژپ ماجنا مولع فلتخم ياه ملع تفرشيپ و اقترا بجوم يکشزپ تسا يکشزپ و ب هچره يارجا ه ناياپ رت همان تسا رادروخرب يصاخ هاگياج زا رظندروم ياهدرادناتسا ساسارب ييوجشناد ياه . يسررب هعلاطم نيا زا فده ناياپ همان يکشزپ يرايتسد و ييوجشناد ياه زا دوب شراگن لوصا تياعر رظن . شور اه : يط هعلاطم يا يعطقم لاس زا يليلحت ۱۳۷۹ ات ۱۳۸۵ ، ۳۱۸ ناياپ تفرگ رارق یسررب دروم و دش باختنا یرامشرس شور هب همان . ادتبا مرف عمج تاعلاطا يروآ يهدزايتما يارب زايندروم ياهريغتم زا ) ۱۰۰ ۰ ( دش هيهت . تمسق جا شور ،همدقم ،ناونع ياه لوصا تياعر ،تسرهف ،ثحب ،جياتن ،ار عبانم و يسيلگنا و يسراف هصلاخ ،شراگن ناياپ هيلک همان یهدزايتما و یسررب اه دش دن . يلک ه شسرپ همان هب اه طسوت و يفيک روط رگشهوژپ ليمکت دش . هتفاي اه : اب جياتن شخب هب زايتما نيرتشيب نيگنايم ۴ / ۹۷ لگنا هديکچ شخب هب زايتما نيرتمک و اب يسي نيگنايم ۱ / ۷۴ تفرگ قلعت . ۱۰۶ ناياپ ياراد همان پاچ هلاقم دوب هدش . ناياپ ليدبت نيرتشيب هلاقم هب همان ) ۷ / ۶۶ % ( دوب باصعا يحارج هورگ هب طوبرم . ناياپ ليدبت توافت و ينيلاب هورگ ود رد هلاقم هب همان مولع ينعم هياپ دوب راد ) ۰۳ / ۰ = p .( ناياپ همان اه اب ی ب زايتما نيگنايم ،رتلاا دندوب هدش ليدبت هلاقم هب رتشيب ) ۰۲ / ۰ = p .( اب نانز هورگ نيگنايم ۹ / ۲ ± ۲ / ۹۶ و هورگ يژولويبورکيم اب نيگنايم ۳ / ۵ ± ۸۱ نيياپ و نيرتلااب هب ار تازايتما نيرت دنداد صاصتخا دوخ . هجيتن يريگ : نايا يلصا لکشم همان تمسق اه راک ماجنا شور و هديکچ ياه تسا . هاگراک بترم يرازگرب هلاقم و قيقحت شور ياه يبايزرا و يسيون ناياپ بترم ناياپ هيهت دنور حلاصا يريگيپ و همان تسا يرورض همان .

Comparison of permanent impairment measuring methods

Abstract: Aims: Evaluating the impairment and permanent disability aiming at determining the ability of employment or repayment is one concern of all industrial and the developing societies. The aim of this study was to investigate the rate of permanent impairment in a military supreme medical commission. Methods: In this analytical cross-sectional study, all 619 referred applicants of compensation or repayment claims and disability percentage which had records during 2006 were included. After data collection, permanent impairment percentage calculated according to AMA (American Medical Association) Guide, then, the obtained results were compared with the allocated values in the patient's record. Data were analyzed using Wilcoxon, Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis methods, Spearman correlation coefficient and Chi-square. Results: Allocated mean percentage in the individuals referred to the commission had no statistically significant difference in terms of different age groups, various groups of working experience, gender, different employment status and various services forces. The mean of allocated impairment percentage in a military supreme medical commission was significantly higher than the calculated impairment percentage mean with AMA Guide rating (p<0.05). Conclusion: The necessity of more collaboration of counselor and colleague physicians and developing a single recipe or instruction and the lack of consideration of the severity of occurrence are among the issues which need revision.

Comparison the effectiveness of «cognitive-behavioral» and «eye movement desensitization reprocessing» treatment models on patients with war post-traumatic stress disorder

Abstract: Aims: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder which can develop after exposure to any event which results in psychological trauma. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the most commonly used treatment for the disease and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a more rapid, relatively recent method . This study was designed with the aim of comparing the efficacy of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing method on reduction of specific symptoms and recovery in patients suffering from PTSD due to war. Methods: This experimental study was performed in year 2008. 45 veterans suffering from PTSD were divided randomly into three CBT, EMDR and control groups. Each of the mentioned groups contained 15 members. Two questionnaires including PTSD checklist-military version and symptom checklist 90 revised were applied in order to collect data. Data was analyzed using inferential statistical tests by SPSS 16. Results: Scores of CBT group and EMDR group had a significant difference from control group scores. Conclusion : B oth models are effective on reduction of symptoms in PTSD.

Effects of hexamethylene tetramine on lung tissue macrophages in rats exposed by two different doses of sulfur mustard

Abstract: Aims: Inhalation of sulfur mustard (HD) gas causes inflammation of airways and bronchioles. Macrophages are phagocytic cells which spread out all over the body tissues. Hexamethylenetetramine (HMT) has been shown to protect human lung cells against HD and phosgene. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of HMT on macrophages of the lung tissue in the rats infected by two different doses of HD. Methods: 42 male rats with weighs of 200±20g were randomly divided into 8 groups of NS, HMT, HD1, HD2, Pre1, Pre2, Post1 and post 2. HD1, Pre1 and Post1 groups received 0.5 %; HD, HD2, Pre2 and Post2 groups received 0.25%; HD and NS groups received Normal Saline (as endotracheal) and HMT group received 7.5mg/kg of this medicine (as intra-peritoneal). 5 groups of HMT, Pre1, Pre2, Post1 and post 2 received the medicine for 14 days. Results: Results of the counting of macrophages revealed significant increase in the number of macrophages in HD groups comparing with NS group. In addition, macrophages significantly increased in the HD1 comparing with HD2. Macrophages significantly increased in HD1&Pre1 comparing with HMT group. Macrophages significantly decreased in Pre and Post groups comparing with HD groups.

N-acetyl cysteine effect on sleep quality and respiratory function of morphine addicts in treatment period a pilot study

Abstract: Aims. Sleep and respiratory disorders are common in addict persons. Anti-oxidant drugs improve sleep quality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the NAC effects on respiratory function and sleep quality in addict persons who are in treatment period. Methods. In this double blind clinical trial study, two drug (17 addicts) and placebo (15 addicts) groups were selected with systematic sampling method among the persons who referred for treatment of their opium addiction. 1200 mg/day drug and placebo were administered to drug and placebo groups, respectively, for 45 days. Sleep quality were evaluated with Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI ) and respiratory function was evaluated with peak flowmetery, before and after drug administration. Finally, the results were analyzed with Fisher, Mann-Whitney and Wilcoxon. Results. PSQI total point mean, before intervention was 10.76 ± 4.64 in drug group and 10.07 ± 6.47 in placebo group and after intervention was 5.29 ± 2.62 in drug group and 4.40 ± 2.87 in placebo group. There was a significant relation between PSQI total points before the intervention, comparing with after the intervention in two groups. But there was no significant relation between PSQI total point before and after the study in drug group comparing to placebo group, before and after the study. NAC improved peak flowmetery results but there were no significant relation at the end of study between drug and placebo groups. Conclusion. NAC drug compared with placebo, does not significantly improve sleep quality and pulmonary function in morphine addicts.

Effectiveness of substance abuse prevention program on knowledge and attitude of soldiers

Abstract: Aims: Due to the presence of individuals at high risk situations, military environment can dispose many behavioral diseases. Educational period is a valuable opportunity for instructing and enhancing the soldiers' awareness. This study was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of educational programs of preventing from substance abuse on the soldiers' awareness and attitude. Methods: This educational program was conducted in 14 military and police force centers in Fars province at two stages. At the first stage, introduced representatives from each camp or garrison were trained as the peer group and at the second stage they trained conscripts of relevant garrisons. Educational materials included a series of pamphlet, slides and booklets. Also, a written questionnaire was used to investigate the effect of training. Paired t-test was used for comparing the pre-training and post-training; and logistic regression was used to assess the effect of variables on the amount of awareness and attitude. Results: The mean participants' education was 11.22±3.5 years. The prevention program of addiction significantly increased the knowledge and improved the attitude of conscripts (p<0.001). Among three variables including age, sex and marital status, only age variable had significant correlation with pre-training knowledge. Conclusion: Addiction prevention programs in military environments not only promote the levels of awareness and knowledge, and improve the attitude, but also enhance individual' performance .

The accuracy rate of laboratory reports of typhoid fever

Abstract: Aims: Salmonellae organisms are a large group of enteric bacteria and their infections present an important public health problem worldwide particularly in developing countries. Regretfully, Diagnosis and laboratory report of Salmonellae organisms is not performed correctly, due to a variety of reasons. This study was designed to determine the accuracy of laboratory reports of typhoid fever in Tehran during a two year period. Methods: This descriptive study was carried out on clinical samples diagnosed as Salmonella typhi received from a number of hospital laboratories in Tehran in years 2007 and 2008. Bacterial strains were diagnosed and identified by standard differential biochemical and serology tests using poly and mono specific Salmonella antisera. Results were then compared to those reported from the hospital laboratories. Results: Among 161 samples which were suspected to contain Salmonella typhi , 60 were reported as Salmonella typhi . Standard biochemical and serology test results revealed that although samples belonged to serogroup D of Salmonella , none of them had reacted with specific Salmonella antiserum; therefore, all non-typhoidal group D Salmonella strains had been misdiagnosed as Salmonella typhi. Conclusion: The precise laboratory identification of Salmonella typhi should be emphasized, because laboratory reports with misdiagnosed Salmonella typhi may prevent physicians from taking proper supportive and curative measures and impair the treatment process.

Factors effective on «group cohesion» and their relations with «aggression» and «suicide ideation» in conscript soldiers

Abstract: Aims. The role of group cohesion in improving morale and performance of military forces has confirmed in investigations. On the other hand, aggression and suicide are common problems of these forces, especially in conscript soldiers due to their armed. Of course, aggression and suicide are not moment events and have been started of thought and followed to design and implement. In order to prevent the aggression and suicide ideation, must first the factors of their inhibition and facilitates be studied. The aim of this study was to evaluate the factors of group cohesion and their relation with aggression and suicidal ideation in conscript soldiers . Methods. This survey and applied research was performed in all conscript soldiers of one of the military forces and 237 soldiers were selected by categorized sampling method. The instruments were Siebold & Kelly group cohesion questionnaire, Huesmann, Miller & Zelli aggression questionnaire (revised version), Beck scale for suicide ideation (BSSI) and the researcher-made demographic questionnaire. Data was analyzed by Pearson correlation coefficient and multiple regressions. Results. There was a significant correlation among group cohesion’s factors, aggression and suicide ideation, but they were not valid for predicting. Therefore, linear model had not a good fitness in multiple regressions. Conclusion. Group cohesion’s factors are not determinants in control of aggression and suicidal ideation.

Effect of protective chemical clothing on physiological strain index

Abstract: Aims: The aim of this study was to examine the effect of physical activity with NBC protective clothing and military uniforms on physiological strain index (PSI). Methods: The sample of this semi experimental study was consisted of thirty healthy male students or soldiers who were 18-25 years old. Their general health status had been assessed and they completed the informed consent form. They did physical activity according to Bruce protocol on treadmill with the use of random allocation for the priority of the use of coatings. Hemodynamic variables were measured and recorded before, after and five minutes after physical activity. After the end of physical activity, physiological stress index was calculated using heart rate and body core temperature rate. Data were analyzed using SPSS 11.5 software and repeated measure ANOVA and paired T tests. Results: PSI (Physiologic Strain Index) for volunteers who were used chemical protective clothing and military uniform was 5.3±1.4 and 2.32±0.42, respectively (p<0.001). Homodynamic parameters demonstrated statistically significant difference after physical activity in two types of coverage (p<0.001). Amounts of physical activity time and distance were better in subjects who were used military uniforms than protective clothing (p<0.001). Conclusion: NBC protective clothing can cause more physiologic strain, more limitation in performance and early exhaustion than the military uniforms. Using NBC protective clothing causes the increase of body core temperature, decrease of individual's tolerance time and heat strain.