1. In relation to your chosen patient, discuss the pathophysiology of their condition and using evidence based practice explore current treatment options for your patient’s condition, include any pharmacological and non-pharmacological considerations.
Osteoarthritis is a joint disease that causes chronic disability in adults of over 70 years of age. It is a degenerative condition resulting from the biochemical breakdown of articular or hyaline cartilage found in synovial joints. It also involves the whole joint organ as well as a sub-chondral bone as well as synovium (Tibor and Ganz, 2015).
Jones osteoarthritis is seen as a consequence of aging, he is 83 years of age. Many differences between the aging cartilage as well as the osteoarthritis have been defined, indicating the former. For instance, though denatured type II collagen is found in osteoarthritis cartilage and normal aging, it is exceedingly predominant in osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis together with the normal aging cartilage vary in the volume of water content as well as the proportion of chondroitin-sulfate to keratin sulfate components (Jämsen et al. 2015). The manifestation of a chondroitin-sulfate epitope, epitope 846 in osteoarthritis cartilage, is only present in neonatal and fetal cartilage that proves that osteoarthritis cartilage is a different pathologic process. Another important decision is that the derivative enzyme activity increases in osteoarthritis as opposed to normal aging cartilage resulting in Arthur Jones’s total hip replacement (Nepple et al. 2015).
Researchers have identified failures as a result of infection, of the bone to grow to porous metal or hip breakages linked to smoking. When considering only smoking-related catastrophes, the catastrophes rate was 9% in smokers and 3.6% in nonsmokers. Nicotine constricts blood vessels resulting to the wounds getting lesser oxygen and healing nutrients, which slows the healing process, as Adolph V. Lombardi, MD, confirms smoking results to less oxygen in the wound compared to nonsmokers (Lane et al. 2015). Carbon monoxide affects blood cells, hence decreasing oxygen distribution to tissues. The tissues are now prone to death. Smoking also causes blood platelets to stick, causing a blood clot (Daivajna & Villar, 2015). Elderly men who have low serum intensities of vitamin D are at greater risk of getting hip osteoarthritis.
Hypertension is also linked to Hip replacement. Most the time the disease is usually linked to cardiovascular disease that lead to coronary heart diseases and renal diseases. In addition, hypertension has been said to be the third leading cause of disability. The risk of hypertension increase with age. Jones therefore, has a high risk of hypertension being the fact that he is 83 years of age. There is therefore the need for preoperative evaluation and optimization of the patient (Kordic et al., 2012).
Another pathophysiology of Jones condition is vitamin D deficiency. Deficiency in vitamin D has been reported previously in patients with osteoarthritis undergoing hip replacement surgery. There is also high vitamin D prevalence in elderly patients with advances osteoarthritis. Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with preoperative functional state. Vitamin D is important for the regulation of calcium metabolism. According to (Jansen, 2013), there is a relationship between Vitamin D and the progression of knee osteoarthritis and that lower intakes of vitamin D increases the condition.
For hip osteoarthritis, stress management is encouraged to hasten post surgery healing. According to OARSI, hip treatment should first focus on patient-driven and self-help modalities as opposed to patterns given by health professionals. The ACR recommendations for the hip osteoarthritis include aquatic exercise, weight loss mainly for overweight patients and cardiovascular as well as land-based resistance training. Other measures include walking aids as required, thermal agents, programs regarding self-management, psychological interventions and manual therapy coupled with supervised practice (Daivajna & Villar, 2015). Pain management should be done through use of prescribed prescription of pain killers. The wound should be checked on a daily basis by the wound nurse.
2. Critically discuss four (4) components of the PACU discharge criteria outlined in the Aldrete Scale. Utilize the scale provided on LEO as a resource in your case study.
First, the processes ensure that there is a safe as well as an appropriate patients’ discharge to their home. This is done by the written policies and procedures of the facility which are put in place to discharge appropriately their patients to their homes and with an active collaboration of anesthetics, surgeons and qualified peri-operative nurses to ensure guidelines and safe practice has been accomplished and followed. Therefore, is very crucial for the nurse to observe intensively patient recovery to detect any sort of possibly complication from the surgical episode (Phillips et al. 2013).
Jones has to be also met with some outcomes such as obstructive sleep apnea, pain, difficult intubation, and vomiting. The discharge order is written by the most accountable physician who can be a surgeon or anesthesiologist. PACU as well may be delegated the decision to remove base on an objective discharge scoring system to the RN (Wainright & Middleton, 2015).
Secondly, an RN has to observe patient for respiratory depression at least for 20 or 30 minutes after taken the last dose of parental narcotic to make sure that patient can breathe without any difficulties. The respiratory exercises are conducted to prevent occurrence of infections such as pneumonia, and prevent imperative blood clots and keeping the lungs clear. Another importance of the respiratory tests is that it helps keep the pain under control. Some of the respiratory exercise performed include, taking deep breathes, coughing and incentive spirometry which are done every two hours (Daivajna & Villar, 2015).
Thirdly, Jones has to be fully orientated and aware of person, a place and time. It will indicate if patient has the readiness to be discharge or has some impact of its cognitive recovery. Before discharge the patient is informed that they will be in charge of their medication and respiratory exercises. They should be able to take care of themselves.
Lastly, stability of vital signs and stable capillary oxygen saturation are monitored after the first 24 hours. The RN is required to monitor the incision and dressing for any amount of drainage and any signs of infections. If a change of dressing is needed it should be done using the sterile technique. In addition, respiratory exercises are performed every two hours. Consequently, the bowel sounds are monitored and the diet of the patient is increased gradually according to the RN orders. Evidence of any potential complications is quickly corrected by the surgeon.
Furthermore, a responsible adult accompanies patient from the hospital. In the events where the patient is not willing for accompaniment from the hospital by a responsible adult, extra measures are taken. Some of the additional steps include and are not limited to patient’s being advised on the significance of an adult companion. Determination of the patient’s physical and cognitive parameters exceeding minimum requirements for discharge and that he or she can operate independently by the responsible physician. He also ascertains the mode of transportation the patient reports if it is allowable. He further can write a discharge order including the patient’s discharge without a responsible adult. This decision is not delegated to PACU RN. Further, arrangement is organized for patients who do not meet physical and cognitive parameters regarding discharge to undergo care (Weingarten & Middleton, 2015).
3. Develop a discharge plan to support your patient on discharge. Include any education you deem relevant, any referrals to allied health professional/s required, and discuss your rationale.
The goal of a discharge plan is to prepare the patient for discharge within a short time. It results in better comfort in the patient; reducing hospital acquired infections as well as costs. The patient can be discharged home after meeting the discharge criteria. Hip replacement discharge for Jones will include what is expected at his home, the home set up, and the activities involved, wound care and self-care, and when the doctor is required (Nakamura et al. 2015).
Education of patients suffering osteoarthritis of the hip can reduce their pain and improving the quality of life. Jones should be educated during the discussion with the doctor, through user groups or being delivered with written material (Stambough et al. 2015). He should frequently peruse materials from the Internet; join the Osteoarthritis Self-Management Program (OSMP), which is a peer-led and community-oriented program where patients are educated as on skills for self-management of osteoarthritis. The Osteoarthritis Foundation of Australia is one such example that organizes the administration of these courses. The courses are led by trained volunteers. A randomized attempt have revealed that members have lessened joint pains, fewer osteoarthritis-related consultations with the doctors, improved physical activity as well as enhanced quality of life. A methodical assessment of published attempts of the entire types of education packages regarding self-management of osteoarthritis certifies clinically minor, but significant decreases in pain coupled with a disability (Nakamura et al. 2015).
If Jones experiences continuous pain, and advanced limitation of activities of the day despite medical management. He can be referred to an orthopaedic surgeon to be assessed. To be an appropriate candidate for surgery, Jones needs to be medically suitable and able to take part in rehabilitation programs post-operatively. Complete joint arthroplasty releases pain as well as improve function for at least ten years. Full joint arthroplasties are deteriorating with time, hence need revision (Nakamura et al. 2015).
Referral to the Occupational therapist is necessary for the safety assessment of his house. The bed should be as low as possible to allow his feet touch the ground while sitting on the edge. His mattress has to be firm since he will not need a hospital bed. Uneven flooring found in doorways should be fixed, and good lighting installed (Stambough et al. 2015). The bathroom should be made safe by installing handrails as well as the commode. Putting things where they are reachable such as chairs placed firmly back in the Kitchen, bedroom and other rooms he is likely to use and no stairs in the house (Wylde et al. 2015).
This part involves keeping the bandage on the wound clean as well as dry. He is supposed to change the dressing in accordance with the physician’s directions when it is dirty or wet (Wainwright et al. 2015). The wound nurse is supposed to prescribe for the pain medicines. He should ensure his prescription is filled when he gets home and have it when need be. He is expected to take pain medicine when he begins feeling pain. He should not wait too long to take his medicine as that will result in severe pain. In the initial stages of recovery, taking pain medicine 30 minutes before he increases his activity helps reduce pain. He may be requested to put on special compression stockings for approximately six weeks. The importance of this is to prevent the formation of a blood clot (Stambough et al. 2015).
Referral to a nutritionist is necessary to ensure that Jones adheres to a certain diet to ensure proper healing. His diet should include foods full of calcium and vitamins to hasten the healing process. In addition there is need for referral to a wound nurse who would clean and dress Jones wounds daily. Since Jones has no relative thee is need to refer him to a personal care giver who will assist him in the bathroom, cooking and shopping to avoid injuries. Jones appears to be stressed by the surgery and would therefore need a councilor who will help him in the healing process (Lane et al. 2015).
Jones should be referred to a general Practitioner who will follow up on his recovery. He is supposed to call the doctor in case of blood in his stool or when it turns dark. A swelling in one of the legs could also prompt him to call the specialist. Performing respiratory exercises help in preventing breathing complications. These include deep breathing as well as coughing and encouraged spirometer exercises. The processes speed up recovery as it lowers the risk of lung problems for example pneumonia (Daivajna & Villar, 2015).
References
Daivajna, S., Bajwa, A., & Villar, R. (2015). Outcome of Arthroscopy in Patients with Advanced Osteoarthritis of the Hip. PloS one, 10(1).
Jämsen, E., Nevalainen, P. I., Eskelinen, A., Kalliovalkama, J., & Moilanen, T. (2015). Risk factors for perioperative hyperglycemia in primary hip and knee replacements: A prospective observational study of 191 patients with osteoarthritis. Acta orthopaedica, 86(2), 175-182.
Jämsen, E., Peltola, M., Puolakka, T., Eskelinen, A., & Lehto, M. U. K. (2015). Surgical outcomes of hip and knee arthroplasties for primary osteoarthritis in patients with Alzheimer’s disease a nationwide registry-based case-controlled study. Bone & Joint Journal, 97(5), 654-661. http://www.bjj.boneandjoint.org.uk/content/97-B/5/654
Jansen, H. (2013). High prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in elderly patients with advanced osteoarthritis scheduled for total knee replacement associated with poorer preoperative functional state. University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, UK
Kordic, K., Sakic, K., & Oberhorfer, D. (2012). Analysis of blood pressure changes in patients
Undergoing total hip or knee replacement in spinal and general anesthesia. University Department of Anesthesiology, Resuscitation and Intensive Care, Sveti Duh University Hospital, Zagreb, CroatiaActa Clin Croat 2012; 51:17-23
Lane, N. E., Hochberg, M. C., Nevitt, M. C., Simon, L. S., Nelson, A. E., Doherty, M., … & Flechsenhar, K. (2015). OARSI Clinical Trials Recommendations: Design and conduct of clinical trials for hip osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, 23(5), 761-771.
Moscato, V. P., O’Brien-Irr, M. S., Dryjski, M. L., Dosluoglu, H. H., Cherr, G. S., & Harris, L. M. (2015). Potential clinical feasibility and financial impact of same-day discharge in patients undergoing endovascular aortic repair for elective infrarenal aortic aneurysm. Journal of vascular surgery. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26070606
Nakamura, Y., Kamimura, M., Uchiyama, S., Komatsu, M., Ikegami, S., & Kato, H. (2015). Osteoarthritis in the forefoot accompanied with joint pain is potentially associated with bone alterations. International Journal of Diagnostic Imaging, 2(2), p64. http://www.sciedupress.com/journal/index.php/ijdi
Nepple, J. J., Thomason, K. M., An, T. W., Harris-Hayes, M., & Clohisy, J. C. (2015). What is the utility of biomarkers for assessing the pathophysiology of hip osteoarthritis? A systematic review. Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research®, 473(5), 1683-1701.
Phillips, N. M., Street, M., Bridie, K., Haesler, E., & Cadeddu, M. (2013). Post-anaesthetic discharge scoring criteria: key finding from a systematic review. International Journal of Evidence-Based Healthcare (Wiley-Blackwell). 11(4), doi: http://dx.doi.org.ezproxy2.acu.edu.au/10.1111/1744-1609.12044
Stacey, D., Taljaard, M., Dervin, G., Tugwell, P., O’Connor, A. M., Pomey, M. P., … & Hawker, G. (2015). Impact of patient decision aids on appropriate and timely access to hip or knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage.
Stambough, J. B., Pashos, G., Bohnenkamp, F. C., Maloney, W. J., Martell, J. M., & Clohisy, J. C. (2015). Long-Term Results of Total Hip Arthroplasty with 28 millimeter Cobalt-Chromium Femoral Heads on Highly Cross-linked Polyethylene in Patients 50 years and Less. The Journal of Arthroplasty. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26260785
Street, M., Phillips, N. M., Kent, B., Colgan, S., & Mohebbi, M. (2015). Minimising post-operative risk using a Post-Anaesthetic Care Tool (PACT): protocol for a prospective observational study and cost-effectiveness analysis. BMJ open, 5(6), e007200.
Tibor, L. M., & Ganz, R. (2015). Hip Osteoarthritis: Definition and Etiology Osteoarthritis Hip OA See Osteoarthritis. In Hip Arthroscopy and Hip Joint Preservation Surgery (pp. 177-188). Springer New York.
Wainwright, T. W., Immins, T., & Middleton, R. G. (2015). Hip osteoarthritis: patients with complex comorbidities can make exceptional improvements following intensive exercise and education. BMJ case reports, 2015, bcr2014208529.
Weingarten, T. N., Bergan, T. S., Narr, B. J., Schroeder, D. R., & Sprung, J. (2015). Effects of changes in intraoperative management on recovery from anesthesia: a review of practice improvement initiative. BMC anesthesiology, 15(1), 54.
Wylde, V., Lenguerrand, E., Gooberman-Hill, R., Beswick, A. D., Marques, E., Noble, S., … & Blom, A. W. (2015). Effect of local anaesthetic infiltration on chronic postsurgical pain after total hip and knee replacement: the APEX randomised controlled trials. Pain, 156(6), 1161-1170.
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Q 1: What Economic, cultural, political-legal, or other environmental factors should ford take into consideration in exporting its cars to japan and why? What specific opportunities and threats can be extracted from the Japanese environment?
Several factors influence the spending behavior of consumers/ the factors to include the economic, cultural, political, legal, and environmental factors. Economic factors primarily influence what a customer will buy and if they can service and maintain the product without cutting too deep into their budget (Lynn, 2011). The economic factors Ford should have in mind are that the prices of gasoline in Japan are extremely high. With the Properly developed public transport, system vehicles are seen as ornaments. To make sure that the Japanese people invest in Ford automobile the vehicles exported to Japan should not be guzzlers. At the same time, the vehicle parts need to easy to find and replace without so much effort and money. Another economic factor is the stock market; the yen gaining strength over the dollar has directed many Japanese consumers to invest in foreign products. For instance, Mr. Tsuzuki says that the Mustang is relatively cheaper than most locally produced Japanese sports car.
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Aside from the economic factors, culture seems to play a primary role in influencing the buying behavior of vehicles in Japan. The Japanese people prefer spacious vehicle. They say this comes in handy when going for family trips or traveling for recreation purposes. At the same time, it is useful if the Japanese family is large. With these facts in mind, it is accurate to suggest that the only way Ford can have opportunities in the market is to import more spacious vehicles suitable for the Japanese family. Besides, the inclusion of safety equipment such as the airbag will be more attractive to the Japanese middle-class consumer. Consequently, Japanese vehicles are usually for ornamental purposes. The Japanese consumers just like Mr. Tsuzuki suggest the physical appearance of the vehicle goes a long way in influencing the consumer to invest in a product. Ford should adopt a distribution strategy for its brands. Since the Japanese people are accustomed to the door-to-door marketing strategy, Ford will have to devise a better mechanism of distribution or use the door-to-door strategy. A showroom mechanism would be advantageous since the women no longer stay at home but go to work.
Ford should also take into consideration the Political-legal factors as it tries to get into the Japanese market. Japan Toyota Company has occupied the market niche for an automobile in Japan. Ford can offer its vehicles at a discount to overcome the political barrier. The company can also work together with Japanese motor vehicle companies to produce vehicles that most Japanese identify with (Takeuchi, Osono & Shimizu, 2008).
The Japanese consumer is attracted by the spacious nature and good physique of the vehicles. The more spacious a vehicle is, the more likely that a Japanese consumer will invest in it. The main reason for this is that the vehicles are used for family recreation trips and road trips to the countryside. Therefore, Ford can compete with the existing automobile dealers in the Japanese market by tailor-making every vehicle fits the Japanese consumer. The Japanese consumer also that, minds a lot about their safety hence the need to have each vehicle fitted with these safety airbags. The Japanese will also buy vehicles that are not only easy to maintain but are fuel-efficient. The prices of gas in Japan are relatively high and with the developed public transport system, most people would rather use the public mean instead of incurring high costs when using personal vehicles. Also, the typical Japanese consumer is accustomed to the door-to-door sale of products. Such customers are said to be loyal to a certain product and are, therefore, not easily swayed.
Q2: what features of Japanese consumer behavior have Ford to take into consideration in selling its goods to the Japanese market? What is the nature and characteristics of the competition faced by Ford in this market?
The features of consumer behavior that Ford needs to take into consideration are diverse when selling their goods to the Japanese market. They include the following:
a) Culture and societal environment
Culture is very vital when understanding the behaviors and needs of a person. Throughout the life of a person, he or she will be influenced by his cultural environment, friends, and family or the society that will impart preference, values, and common behaviors that exist in their culture. As a brand, Ford Motors need to understand and take into account the inherent cultural factors in the Japanese market for them to adapt their products and their marketing strategy (Szmigin & Piacentini, 2015). These will play a significant role in the behavior, habits, perception, and expectations of consumers. For example, in Japan, the culture of inviting someone to your home does not exist in their local customs. They prefer to do business with business partners and friends in a restaurant. Therefore, the salespeople of Ford need to take this into account when they need to meet their potential clients (Velayudhan, 2007).
b) Social classes
Schütte & Ciarlante (1998) defined social classes as groups that are ranked by a form of social hierarchy or are more or less homogenous. People in the same social class have similar lifestyles, values, behaviors, and interests. According to East, Vanhuele & Wright (2013), generally, people assume three groupings of social classes, and they include upper, middle, and lower classes. People from various social classes tend to have different consumption patterns and desires. The disparities result from the difference in their power of purchasing. Therefore, when Ford is offering its products in the Japanese market, they need to consider the social class. They need to provide cars that are affordable to the people in the middle class, other products that are affordable to the upper class and the social class according to their purchasing powers
c) Membership groups and reference groups
These are social groups to which an individual belongs and eventually will influence him. According to O’Dell & Pajunen (1997), these membership groups are normally related to leisure, hobbies, work, residence places, age, and social origin. As much as the level of influence may vary, it is observed that there are common trends of consumption among the same group members. The understanding of Ford Motors f the specific features (lifestyle, values, mindset) of each group will allow it to target better their messages for advertising
d) Family
This is the most influencing factor since it forms a person’s socialization environment and will shape their personalities and help in acquiring values. Moreover, families play a significant role in developing opinions and attitudes of different subjects such as the perception of brands of products, consumer habits. Therefore, Ford Motors need to ensure that their brands are seen as a family brand for it to become a consumer habit for the children, young adults, and parents when they grow up (Szmigin & Piacentini, 2015).
e) Age and the way of life
A consumer at age 70 or 20 does not purchase the same products or services because their values, lifestyles, activities, the environment, consumer habits, and hobbies evolve throughout their lives. Moreover, the factors that influence the process of buying decisions may also change. For instance, the youths at the age of 25 years may be influenced by the social value of Ford Vehicles in his or her decision (Velayudhan, 2007). Similarly, the individual’s life cycles will also influence their values, lifestyles, and behavior of buying depending on whether the individual is about children, in a relationship, or is single. Furthermore, the kind of city and region of the country where individual life will also play significant roles such as the countryside, small town or a large city. For this reason, Ford Motors must identify, measure, understand and analyze personal factors, criteria influencing their customer’s shopping behavior are for them to adapt.
f) Revenue and purchasing power
An individual’s purchasing power will have a decisive influence on their purchasing decisions and behaviors based on their capital and income. Purchasing power affects what they can afford, the level of importance of price, and perspective on money in his purchasing decisions. Therefore, Ford Motors need to offer different products according to different categories of purchasing power (Schütte & Ciarlante, 1998).
Ford Motors face more competition in the Japanese market from the local vehicle manufacturer and also other external entrants into the market. The nature of competition in the Japanese automobile industry can be described as a perfect competition. According to Economics Online (2015), perfect competition according to Economics Online (2015) is where the market competition is at its highest level possible. The characteristics of this competition according to East, Vanhuele & Wright (2013) include:
1. The existence of perfect knowledge with no time lags or failure in the information. There is freely available knowledge to the market participants which implies that there is minimal risk-taking
2. It is assumed that the consumers and producers make rational decisions since they have the perfect knowledge to maximize their self-interest. The producers look at ways of maximizing their profits while consumers on how to maximize their utility
3. No entry barriers or exist out of the market
4. Each input unit like the labor units is also homogenous
5. Firms produce identical, homogeneous, output units that are not branded
6. No single company can influence the market conditions or market price
7. Existence f a large number of companies in the market
8. No need for regulation by the government except only in making the market more competitive
9. The companies can only make abnormal profits in a short time, but make normal profits in the long run
10. It is assumed that there are no externalities, which implies no external benefits or costs
Q3: what possible criteria did Ford use in selecting Japan as a market for its cars? What were the possible target segments for Ford in the Japanese market? How did Ford position Mustang in this market?
The possible criteria Ford used in selecting Japan as a market for its cars is by applying Porter’s five forces model. This model is used in analyzing five competitive forces shaping every industry and also is significant in determining the weaknesses and strengths of an industry (Kogan & National Bureau of Economic Research, 2009). This model assumes that five vital forces help in determining competitive power and they include:
Supplier power: this assesses how easy or difficult for the suppliers to drive up their prices. The supplier power is driven by the supplier’s number, their strength and control over an industry, and the cost of changing from one supplier to the other (Amir et al, 2003).
Buyer power: this assesses how easy it is for the buyers of the products to drive up down prices. This is also driven by the number of buyers in the market, the cost of the changing from the products a company offers to its competitors. Few powerful buyers imply a company will dictate the terms (Amir et al, 2003).
Rivalry in competition: this depends on the capability and number of competitors. A company with many competitors who offer quality products and services is more likely to have little power since buyers and suppliers will go to the competitors for better deals (Amir et al, 2003).
The threat of substitution: this is driven by the customers’ ability to find other ways of getting similar products. Easy substitution weakens the power of the seller
The threat of new entry: this is affected by the other companies’ abilities to enter the same market. If the cost of entry is little, there us few scales, or the company has little protection for its products, then new entrants can enter easily and quickly and this weakens the position in the market. On the other hand, durable and strong entry barriers preserve favorable positions of a company (Amir et al, 2003).
Market segmentation refers to aggregating prospective buyers into categories that have common needs and will also similarly respond to a marketing action (Cahill, 2006). Possible target segments of Ford include:
Geographic segmentation: these will be segmented according to geographical variables such as regions within Japan such as plain and hilly areas. Another variable is the size of a metropolitan area like towns and cities. Population density will also be factored
Demographic segmentation: this variable will be segmented according to gender, age, family sizes, income, generations, education, occupation, and family life cycles (single, in a relationship, and married with children) (Wedel & Kamakura, 2000).
Psychographic segmentation: this will be grouped according to their lifestyles. For instance, interest, activities, opinions, values, and attitudes Behavioral segmentation: this will be based on customers’ actual behaviors towards the Ford products. Some variables of behaviors include; usage rate, benefits sought, user status, brand loyalty, occasion (events and holidays that stimulate purchase), and readiness to buy (Hsu, 2010).
Ford positioned Mustang in the Japanese market in the high-profile niche market. This falls under psychographic segmentation since Mustang is left-handed, and vehicles in Japan are made right-handed. Moreover, Ford positioned Mustang against the Nissan Z cars and Toyota Supra cards. Mustang targets clients who purchase based on their lifestyles that are dictated by interest, activities, opinions, values, and attitudes. The car offers safety features like anti-lock brakes, airbags that are costly in Japanese cars. Moreover, it is cool, big, and durable. Mustang was also positioned for the demographic segmentation since it is favorable for customers with families since it’s big and can accommodate many people. Additionally, it is cheap compared to the locally manufactured vehicles
Q4: which specific method did Ford use to enter the Japanese market? What are the possible advantages and disadvantages encountered by Ford Using this method? What other entry methods to Japan would you suggest to Ford and why?
Ford Motors used direct export as a specific method of entering the Japanese market. With this method, a company produces its goods in their home country and then sells them to their overseas customers (Bennett, 1998). For example, Ford Motors used direct exporting to sell their cars either through the distributors who gained ownership or by using overseas agents who get commissions. In this scenario, Ford Company shifts its focus majorly on distribution. Similarly, using this method, Ford could export their automobiles using their subsidiary in Japan by sending their marketing experts to organize for their new car brands in the Japanese markets (Business Teacher, 2015).
Possible advantages encountered by Fording using direct export method is related to the contract to manufacture. Ford Motors has been able to benefit from not investing in plants and not worrying about their plant investments especially when there is political instability (Lymbersky, 2010).
The disadvantage of the direct export method is that first,t the potential profits accrued from manufacturing will go to their partner who is a local instead of the main company. Another disadvantage is the difficulty in finding a production partner who is trustworthy and satisfactory in the Japanese market since that person needs to be trustworthy and reliable for them not to cheat Ford Motors. Lastly, another disadvantage is that Ford might face the possible problem of quality control because production is out of their main company (Business Teacher, 2015).
Other entry methods that Ford could use in entering the Japanese market include the following:
Indirect export: this is when a company sells its products to a third party in a foreign market who then sells it locally Licensing: This is another less risky method. Using the licensing method, the licensor grants a company in a foreign market a licensee of producing the same product also to using the same brand name. In return, the main company will earn royalty payments from its sale (Learn Marketing, 2015). Franchising: using the franchising method, a company puts will assemble the ingredients that made them successful in their home markets and then franchised the package to an investor overseas. The holder of the franchise may help in providing marketing and training on the products and services. Contracting: This is another market entry method overseas that involves ideas exchange. The company that manufactures the product will contract out the production of its products to another company to produce on their behalf. This method is beneficial since it saves the company from exporting their finished products to the foreign markets (Learn Marketing, 2015). Joint ventures: this method is where two companies come together to form an organization that operates in a host country. This is beneficial in sharing risks in entering new markets. The two companies also share expertise and knowledge to help in the company’s development, and also the profits will be shared Manufacturing abroad: this is where the company makes the ultimate decision to establish a plant to manufacture its products abroad. This is also advantageous to the manufacturer since the host government may give the company some tax advantages to attract more inward investments and also create employment in their country (Learn Marketing, 2015).
Q5: what adjustments has Ford made on each of the elements of its marketing mix in exporting to the Japanese market and why? What market strategy recommendations would you make to Ford Motors to help it to be successful in this market?
A marketing mix can be defined as a combination of several factors that are given priority by the company when introducing a product into the market. The choice of the marketing mix is highly dependent on understanding consumer behavior and prioritizing what is important to the consumers of the product, in this case, Ford Motors. There are several adjustments that Ford made on each of the elements of its marketing mix in exporting to the Japanese market, and reasons why it made the adjustments
Product The first concern in the marketing mix is the product itself. The product that Ford Motors planned for was to please the needs of a specific target. The product is the first concern of the company. Lamb et al (2008) stated that through focused group discussions and surveys, the company can understand the expectations of the consumer’s concern Ford Motors and, therefore, plan to meet such expectations. This means that consumers should be involved in the development of the product, which Ford Motors managed to do successfully. The adjustments Ford made on products in Japan include the introduction of Mustang, which is left-handed despite cars in Japan being right-handed. This adjustment was made to target high profile niche market. Other adjustments of Mustang include the addition of safety features like anti-lock brakes and airbags which are costly in Japanese cars. Moreover, Ford introduced the Probe, Laser, and Mondeo, which are right-handed vehicles to compete in the compact sedan market.
Price
Perhaps the most important factor in the marketing of any product is the price. The price of a product could be too high that it is unreachable for the consumers or too low that it does not seem quality enough. The research must be completed at the right price for the product. Ford Motors used the Market penetration pricing system, where the price of the Ford Motorswase set slightly lower to attract consumers and, therefore, penetrate a market already saturated with many vehicles. It is important to note that the Mustang is a luxury product, and therefore if the pricing is too high, it will be ignored by a majority of consumers. With the current global trends, pricing should be just right, (Lodato 2008). For example, the Mustang, which Mr. Tsuzuki bought cost about 2.3 million yen or about $22,000, This was about $7,000 lower compared to the Japanese sports car price. Moreover, Ford is pricing its word cars at $2000 to $3000 below compared to the Nissan Altima or Honda Accord versions
Promotion
Since the Mustang is a new product in the market, promotion of the same is vital. Aggressive advertising with the right message will leave many of the consumers with the desire to purchase the product. To create such a desire, the company requires engaging the consumer through the right channels. Some consumers, a majority of them, in fact, are not aware of the product, where it is found, and what it can do for them. The promotion part of the marketing mix covers all this information (Lamb et al 2008). The adjustments that Ford Motors made on promotion include a multimillion-dollar ad campaign to position Fords products as fun family cars
Place and distribution
Finally, Ford Motors is concerned with the distribution of the product. It is not enough to make sure consumers have heard and knew about the product; Ford Motors must also ensure that the consumers can get access to Ford Motors. All channels of distribution should be exhaustively explored to make sure that the company’s potential customers can get the product whenever they need or want it (Lamb et al 2008). The adjustments that Ford has made for this include signing up additional 1000 dealers by the year 2000 to supplement their existing 286 Autorama dealers. Moreover, Ford enticed one of the Nissan dealers to offer Ford products to its dealerships
The market strategy recommendations I would make to Ford to help it be successful include the following:
1. Partner with allies in the same or different industries to push their marketing campaigns
2. Embracecontentd generated from the users of their products. This can be done by the consumers sharing their personal stories, exchanging idea,s or even surveys
3. Ford can also collaborate with the industry influencers
4. Ford should also help its customers in solving their problems with their cars. For instance, being available and able to repair their cars when they develop problems, offering solutions, listening to the community or even partnering with local dealers to offer services to their clients
5. Experiment with other platforms and channels to promote their brand (Bennett, 1998).
References
Amir, R., Evstigneev, I. V., Hens, T., & Schenk-Hoppé, K. R. (2003). Market selection and survival of investment strategies. Louvain-la-Neuve: CORE.
Bennett, R. (1998). International marketing: Strategy, planning, market entry & implementation. London: Kogan Page.
Business Teacher, (2015). The Foreign Market Entry Modes. Businessteacher.org.uk.
Cahill, D. J. (2006). Lifestyle market segmentation. New York: Haworth Press.
East, R., Vanhuele, M., & Wright, M. (2013). Consumer behavior: Applications in marketing. Los Angeles (Calif.: Sage.
Economics Online,. (2015). Perfect competition. Economicsonline.co.uk.
Hsu, G. (2010). Categories in markets: Origins and evolution. Bingley: Emerald.
Kogan, L., & National Bureau of Economic Research. (2009). Market selection. Cambridge, Mass: National Bureau of Economic Research.
Lamb, C, Hair, J, and McDaniel, C. 2008. Marketing. Cengage Learning
Learn Marketing,. (2015). International Marketing: Market Entry Methods. Learnmarketing.net. Retrieved 3 July 2015, from http://www.learnmarketing.net/international%20marketing%20entry.htm
Lodato, 2008. Management of New Product Launches and Other Marketing Projects. Author House
Lymbersky, C. (2010). Market entry strategies: Text, Cases, and readings in market entry management. Hamburg: Management Laboratory Press.
Lynn, M. (2011). Segmenting and Targeting your market: Strategies and Limitations. The Scholarly Commons: Cornel University.
O’Dell, S. M., & Pajunen, J. (1997). The butterfly customer: Capturing the loyalty of today’s elusive consumer. Toronto: J. Wiley & Sons Canada.
Schütte, H., & Ciarlante, D. (1998). Consumer behavior in Asia. Basingstoke: Macmillan Business.
Szmigin, I., & Piacentini, M. (2015). Consumer behavior. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Takeuchi, H., Osono, E., & Shimizu, N. (2008).The contradictions that drive Toyota’s success. Harvard Business Review.
Velayudhan, S. K. (2007). Rural marketing: Targeting non-urban consumers. Los Angeles [Calif.: Response Books.
Wedel, M., & Kamakura, W. A. (2000). Market segmentation: Conceptual and methodological foundations. Boston, Mass. [u.a.: Kluwer Acad. Publ.
With a student-centered approach, I create engaging and informative blog posts that tackle relevant topics for students. My content aims to equip students with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed academically and beyond.
“Up from Slavery” is an autobiography written in 1901 for Booker T Washington. The book details Booker T Washington’s personal experiences in working and how he rose from his position as a slave child against the obstacles and difficulties during civil war until he got his university education and finally to his work of establishing several vocational schools for the black people and other minority groups who are disadvantaged to learn marketable and useful skills and work together to pull themselves up the bootstraps as a race (Washington & Brundage, 2003). However, despite the fact that the book was once hailed as a classic for several decades, it is not often taught today. The themes and tones that could explain this are diverse.
The central theme and tone in the book is the slavery of the African Americans. The deep shame of our ancestors’ role in slavery may have been a major factor why the book is never taught often. It is important for the current generation to acknowledge and do everything it can to make moral amends among races instead of having nostalgic memories of the dark days by reading books which document the slavery of African Americans. The best thing was to limit the learning of the horrors of slave trade amongst school children since it brings out the shameful and faults of the whites in the past (Washington & Brundage, 2003).
Light and dark is the first major symbolism throughout the story. Désirée represents lightness while Armand represent darkness. From the onset, Arman is associated with darkness because his house inspires fear, and his estate is a terror place. This functions as a symbolic projection to the Armand’s personality landscape (Chopin, 2015). Similarly, color yellow symbolizes the way it is used. Armand’s plantation is yellow, as well as the baby nurse Zandrine and La Blanche and her son who are portrayed as black. In the story, the slaves are also described as yellow, and Armand is linked to darkness. The personality and reaction of Armand are also symbolic. He falls in love instantly as if he has been struck by a pistol shot. Furthermore, symbolism is also seen in the manner Armand reacts to the baby for being black. His character is shown as a person who rushes into doing everything and by impulse (Chopin, 2015).
The irony in the story comes in the end when Chopin reveals the information about Armand through his mother’s letter to his father written a long time ago. The letter reveals the truth Armand is black, and he is from a cursed race with slavery brand and not Désirée (Chopin, 2015).
Double Consciousness
Washington’s “two-ness” means that back Americans exists in two warring ideals in one dark body, that is as a Negro, and as an American; two unreconciled strivings, two thoughts, two souls; whose dogged strength keeps it from being divided apart (Du, 1990). DuBois’s double-consciousness means that a person always looks at himself or herself through others’ eyes, that us measuring one’s souls using the tape of the world which looks in pity and amused contempt (Du, 1990). An example in two-ness was evident during the nineteenth and twentieth century where it was and has been impossible for a black American to function as an American and also an African at the same time. Similarly, it was even more ridiculous for a black American to function as an African who happened to be a national of America. On the other hand, an example of double consciousness is where the African Americans looked at themselves and tried to function through the eyes or the expectations of the whites. That is to function as being inferior while in reality this was a tape of the world which was filled with pity and contempt (Du, 1990).
References
Washington, B. T., & Brundage, W. F. (2003). Up from slavery: With related documents. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s.
With a student-centered approach, I create engaging and informative blog posts that tackle relevant topics for students. My content aims to equip students with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed academically and beyond.
What clinical and laboratory features are consistent with the diagnosis of an acute uncomplicated lower UTI (cystitis) in this patient?
Dysuria and frequency of urination and urgency to urinate
How does one differentiate cystitis from urethritis (caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, or herpes simplex virus) or vaginitis (caused by candida or trichomonas species)?
To differentiate cystitis from urethritis, the major symptoms will be dysuria and urethral discharge. The discharge can be whitish, purulent, or mucoid. Moreover, its onset is usually sudden and it is characterized by urgency, frequency, and painful or burning voiding of urine in small volumes. Other systemic symptoms include nausea, sweats, chills, and fever.
How should a patient experiencing her fourth episode of cystitis and not responding to treatment be managed? Should a urine culture and sensitivity test be performed?
Urine culture should be done since it is the standard criterion in the diagnosis of urinary tract infections, however, urine must be properly collected and quickly cultured or refrigerated (Nickel, 2005).
What are the most likely pathogens and frequency of occurrence causing this patient’s infection?
The most likely pathogens include Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Enterobacteriaceae (Klebsiella pneumonia, Proteus mirabilis), and Escherichia coli and their frequency is 75-95% (Seattle STD/HIV, 2015).
What factors can increase the risk of developing a UTI?
Female gender– UTIs are very common amongst women because they have shorter urethra compared to men, and this cuts down the traveling distance for the bacteria to reach the urethra
Being sexually active– people who are active sexually tend to have more UTIs
Using particular types of birth control such as the diaphragm and spermicidal agents increases the risks (UTI, 2013).
Completing menopause– UTIs are more common in post-menopause women because of lack of estrogen which causes urinary tract changes making it more vulnerable to infection
Having abnormalities in the urinary tract– abnormal urinary tracts which cause back up of urine in the urethra or do not allow the urine to leave body normally have an increased UTIs risks
Having urinary tract blockages– enlarged prostate or kidney stones can trap urine in the bladder thus increases UTIs risks (UTI, 2013).
Having an immune system that is suppressed– diabetes and other diseases impairing the immune system can increase UTIs risks
Using a catheter in urinating– people who use a catheter for urination because they cannot urinate have an increase in UTIs risks. This also include hospitalized patients with neurological problems which makes it difficult for the patients to control their urinating ability and individuals who are paralyzed (UTI, 2013)
List potential reasons that this patient may not be responding to treatment?
Re-infection with the same bacteria
Functional or anatomic abnormalities of the urinary tract
Frequent sexual intercourse
The patient might be having comorbid conditions or even other predisposing factors (Kodner & Thomas, 2010)
Because this is her fourth episode of an uncomplicated UTI this year, should she receive prophylactic antibiotics to prevent further episodes?
Yes, since postcoital or continuous prophylactic antibiotics are used in treating women with recurrent urinary tract symptoms.
What are the goals of pharmacotherapy in this case?
Is to make the patient free of the symptoms, eradicate the infection and prevent complications
What are the desirable characteristics of an anti-infective agent selected for the treatment of this uncomplicated UTI?
They should promote improved compliance
Low costs
Lower frequency of leading to adverse reactions (Wagenlehner & Naber, 2001).
The spectrum of the agent
Pharmacokinetics that favor wider intervals of dosing effect on the vaginal and fecal flora
Adequate urinary levels of antimicrobial duration
Potential for undesirable side effects (Rafalsky, Andreeva & Rjabkova, 2006).
What feasible pharmacotherapeutic alternatives are available for empiric first-line and second-line treatment of an uncomplicated UTI?
Other feasible pharmacotherapeutic options of treatments include cranberry products, and self-started antibiotics (Kodner & Thomas, 2010).
What nonpharmacologic therapies may be useful in preventing uncomplicated UTIs?
Other feasible nonpharmacologic therapies include behavioral modifications. Renal imaging can also be done if structural abnormalities of the urinary tract are suspected (Kodner & Thomas, 2010).
What drug, dosage form, dose, schedule, and duration of therapy are best for this patient?
For this patient, Quinolones is good because of its good actions against E.coli, have minimal effect on the protective flora of the natural vagina, and achieve high urinary concentrations. Once or twice daily dose of regimens can be used in administering Quinolones. Moreover, seven-, three- day, or single-dose schedules can be applied (Rafalsky, Andreeva & Rjabkova, 2006).
What clinical and laboratory parameters are necessary to evaluate the therapy for the achievement of the desired therapeutic outcome and to detect or prevent adverse effects?
Dipstick method in Routine analysis can be used as a clinical and laboratory parameter in the evaluation of the therapy for the achievement of the desired therapeutic outcome and also detect or prevent adverse effects. Moreover, antimicrobial susceptibility testing and repeat urine culture testing, a renal scan, or renal ultrasound.
What information should be provided to the patient to enhance compliance, ensure successful therapy, and minimize adverse effects?
The patient should be informed about simple measures such as taking the prescribed medications. Moreover, to ensure maximum compliance, health professionals should provide information on possible adverse effects and the influence of drugs on treatment continuity. Moreover, to enhance understanding of the patients, the given direction should be given in straightforward and simple language, simple directions and accompanied always by a written version
What are the safety and efficacy of a single dose, 3 days, and 7-day antimicrobial therapy for the treatment of acute uncomplicated bacterial cystitis?
The 7-day antimicrobial therapy has a greater potential of resulting in side effects, has not shown to have a therapeutic effect that is improved, and is even more expensive. The3-day antimicrobial therapy is a short course and has the best combination of efficacy in addition to having decreased toxicity and side effects (Rafalsky, Andreeva & Rjabkova, 2006).
Obtain information on the rates of resistance of E. coli to TMP-SMX and fluoroquinolone antibiotics. How do these rates compare to those reported at your institution?
The prevalence of resistance of E. coli to TMP-SMX antibiotics among patients suffering from uncomplicated pyelonephritis is less than 20% in many regions of the United States. Rates of resistance or E. coli to fluoroquinolone were less than 15.8% (Talan et al, 2008).
Provide assessment and recommendation on the role of phenazopyridine in the treatment of UTIs
For some patients who are suffering from cystitis, phenazopyridine which is a urinary analgesic three times a day as prescribed is useful in relieving discomfort because of severe dysuria. Moreover, a two-day course is normally sufficient to allow time for antimicrobial therapy symptomatic response and minimization of inflammation. In fact, within a few hours, dysuria is usually diminished after the commencement of the therapy. However, this agent should not be chronically used since it may mask the clinical symptoms that are required for clinical evaluation (Klimberg et al, 2005).
References
Klimberg, I., Shockey, G., Ellison, H., Fuller-Jonap, F., Colgan, R., Song, J., Keating, K., … Cyrus, P. (January 01, 2005). Time to symptom relief for uncomplicated urinary tract infection treated with extended-release ciprofloxacin: a prospective, open-label, uncontrolled primary care study. Current Medical Research & Opinion, 21, 8, 1241-1250.
Kodner, C. M., & Thomas, G. E. K. (January 01, 2010). Recurrent urinary tract infections in women: diagnosis and management. American Family Physician, 82, 6, 638-43. Retrieved from http://www.aafp.org/afp/2010/0915/p638.html
Nickel, J. C. (January 01, 2005). Practical management of recurrent urinary tract infections in premenopausal women. Reviews in Urology, 7, 1, 11-7.
Rafalsky, V., Andreeva, I., & Rjabkova, E. (January 01, 2006). Quinolones for uncomplicated acute cystitis in women. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 3.
Seattle STD/HIV. (2015). Chapter 5: Urethritis & Cystitis in Females.
Talan, D. A., Krishnadasan, A., Abrahamian, F. M., Stamm, W. E., Moran, G. J., & EMERGEncy ID NET Study Group. (January 01, 2008). Prevalence and risk factor analysis of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole- and fluoroquinolone-resistant Escherichia coli infection among emergency department patients with pyelonephritis. Clinical Infectious Diseases: an Official Publication of the Infectious Diseases Society of America, 47, 9, 1150-8.
Urology Care Foundation. (2013). The Official Foundation of the American Urological Association. (n.d.).
Urinary tract infection (UTI). (2013). Retrieved April 2, 2015, from http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urinary-tract-infection/basics/risk-factors/con-20037892
Wagenlehner, F. M., & Naber, K. G. (January 01, 2001). Uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women. Current Opinion in Urology, 11, 1, 49-53. Retrieved from http://www.antimicrobe.org/e4a.asp
With a student-centered approach, I create engaging and informative blog posts that tackle relevant topics for students. My content aims to equip students with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed academically and beyond.
Employment at will defines a structure upon which an employee can decide to leave a job when he or she wants to for any reason, and it also works the other way where an employer can terminate his or her employee for any particular reason without a specific cause or notice ( Shepard et.al (1987). Shepard et.al (1987) states that the objective and aim of the employment-at-will doctrine is the prevention of wrongful terminations as well as employment lawsuits that may occur between employees and their employers.
According to Shepard et.al (1987), employment-at-will has some key exceptions in employment which function at the state as well as the federal level which can sufficiently be prevented from being utilized as a defense within a lawsuit. Harcourt et.al (2013) indicates that the first exemption is the public-policy exception. This exception comes into implementation when an employee is wrongfully discharged from his or her work when the cause of termination runs against an explicit and public policy that is well-established by the State (Harcourt et.al, 2013). A good instance of such a case would be the fact that in several states, an employer is in no position to terminate his or her employee for having filed a workers’ compensation claim due to an injury attained while at work, as well as when an employee standing against breaking the law as per the request of his or her employer.
The second exemption is the implied-contract exception which applies when an employer-employee contract is formed which is a written instrument in regards to the existing employment relationship (Harcourt et.al, 2013). However, Harcourt et.al (2013) explains that even with employment typically not being contract governed, an employer is in a position to make both oral and written representations to their employees in regards to their job security as well as procedures which will be implemented in a situation where adverse employment actions are undertaken.
The third exemption is the covenant-of-good-faith exception. Harcourt et al. (2013) point out that specifically eleven States recognize this exception; furthermore, this exception deals with the representation of the most significant departures derived from the traditional doctrine of employment-at-will. According to Shepard et.al (1987) instead of a narrow prohibition of employment terminations based on public policy as well as an implied contract, thus this particular exception is quite broad when determining a covenant-of-good-faith as well as fair dealing in concern to all employment relationships.
Amongst the exceptions, however, in regards to the Employment at Will Doctrine, employment contracts are the most relevant amongst the rest of the exemptions to the current Human Resource practices. Shepard et.al (1987) mentions that the formal employment contracts help the Human Resource within the organization to determine the protection offered and provided to an organization’s employers and employees under the employment-at-will. With the human resource having a written contract in place employers are given the ability to outline an employee’s responsibilities, duties as well as work structure.
Progressive discipline in the definition is referred to as a process of utilizing significantly critical steps as well as measures in a situation where an employee has failed to effectively correct a certain problem after he or she is given a fair opportunity to resolute it (Mader- Clark & Guerin, 2007). Mader- Clark, and Guerin (2007) mention that the key root principle behind the sound progressive discipline is utilizing the least severe action which you consider necessary towards the correction of the certain undesirable situation. According to the progressive discipline, Canada (2011) explains that the increase of severity of the implemented action is done only if the particular situation is not corrected effectively. Canada (2011) thus defines progressive discipline policy as one that establishes a clear progression of the set disciplinary actions that will be undertaken once an employee violates the work rules.
The progressive disciplinary policy includes a set of standardized steps; the first step is a verbal warning. According to Mader- Clark, and Guerin (2007), a verbal warning is defined as a substantially informal one. The verbal warning ensures that an employee is given awareness of the infraction in question and thus allowed to take the necessary steps towards getting a solution and remedy for it. Mader- Clark, and Guerin (2007) point out that even if the verbal warning is practically verbal is recommended to document it.
The second step taken within the implementation progressive disciplinary system is a written warning (Canada, 2011). Canada (2011) states that an employee can be handed one or more written warnings; Canada (2011) further states that a written warning is considered a substantially formal warning. A written warning is issued once a verbal warning is not productive towards objectifying a positive change within the employee in question behavior at work.
The third step undertaken in the implementation progressive disciplinary system is suspension. Canada (2011) explains that a suspension as per the choice of an employer could be with or even without pay. Canada (2011) further expresses that suspensions are put in place as a result of major infractions and to create time to investigate the entire situation. Lastly, termination is the last step undertaken. Termination is considered the last resort in most situations and more often than not cannot be avoided. Every step has in place documentation but any termination decision documentation is more vital than in the other steps.
The concepts as well as practices progressive discipline together with that of employment-at-will have a certain level of interaction. The employment contracts are under the Charter schools and are required to provide ‘Good Cause’ for the implemented termination, as the due process as per the Constitution. Charter schools are under the governance of government employment laws. The progressive discipline process embraces effective documentation which efficiently fits in the charter school set policy. Both the progressive discipline together with that of employment-at-will embraces the Charter school in their policymaking.
Nevertheless, utilizing and implementing a progressive discipline policy may compromise the doctrine of employment-at-will. For instance, under the employment-at-will doctrine, an employer, as well as the employee, is placed in a position free to access at any time termination of the existing employment relationship; whether or not they give notice and reason. Therefore a progressive discipline may lead to the creation of a reasonable expectation upon which a particular procedure will efficiently be followed as well as the fact that there is a requirement for reasonable cause for the termination.
The doctrine of employment-at-will together with the progressive discipline is vital in the realization of the employee potential as well as the maximization of organizational outcomes. The policies provide clear explanations of all the consequences that come with not meeting the company’s employer’s expectations as well as not keeping up with the employer’s rules; thus keeping the improve its customer service to its clients. The associates or the employees in check and pushing them towards achieving their employer expectations. Secondly, the policies provide a system that allows enhancing consistency as well as fairness in the disciplinary procedures in the organizations; therefore with consistency in the organization’s system the organization’s capacity to maximize their outcome increases. Thirdly embracing the policies allows the employees to make better, positive changes that are beneficial to the company’s overall performance. Fourthly, the policies give room got the employer to explain to the employees which actions could be undertaken towards improving the present situation; thus with the opportunity to coach as well as a mentor their employees the employer is enhancing the ability of the employee to reach their maximum potential in their work duties.
References
Canada. (2011). Progressive discipline. Gatineau, Québec: Human Resources and Skills Development Canada.
Harcourt, M., Lam, H., Hannay, M., & University of Waikato. (2013). Distributive justice, employment at will, and just cause dismissal.
Mader-Clark, M., & Guerin, L. (2007). The progressive discipline handbook: Smart strategies for coaching employees. Berkeley, CA: NOLO.
Shepard, I. M., Olsen, H., Duston, R. L., & College and University Personnel Association. (1987). Employment at will: A guide to an eroding doctrine. Washington, D.C: College and University Personnel Association.
With a student-centered approach, I create engaging and informative blog posts that tackle relevant topics for students. My content aims to equip students with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed academically and beyond.
One of the famous writers in the study of American literature and History is Thoreau. Through his work, he influenced critical thinking among his readers. Thoreau’s Works the Walden challenges the validity of having a government, paying taxes, and many other social issues. Other writers have similarly given their opinions on the understanding of Walden. Another Writer is Edgar Poe, who, through his short stories and poems, tells different life experiences. This paper will discuss both of these writers’ works through the eyes of different writers.
Poetzsch, Markus. “Sounding Walden Pond: The Depths and ‘Double Shadows’ of Thoreau’s Autobiographical Symbol.” ATQ 22.2 (2008): 387-401. Print.
Poetzch explores the autobiographical symbolism in Double Shadows of Thoreau. He says the phrase Walden Pond is a symbol that different authors, such as Richard Schneider, have explored. He compares authors like Melvin Lyon, who built the pond’s symbolism, to morality and purity matters. To him, Walden Pond is like a travel diary for the reader. The scenery of the pond is painted as a personal guide. Poetzch suggests that the challenges presented by a different critic of Thoreau’s text are intended to challenge the understanding of growth. He suggests that Thoreau’s text indulges fantasy regarding the ethical environment and philosophy. He agrees with Lawrence Buell, who says that Thoreau’s writing has greatly influenced American culture formation.
Bankston, Carl L. “Thoreau’s Case for Political Disengagement.” Modern Age 52.1 (winter 2010): 6-13. Print.
Carl associates the text with modern political activism. He adds that Thoreau’s Works influenced the works of Martin Luther King Jnr and Mahatma Gandhi, among many activists. Carl explores Thoreau’s views about government, justice, and voting. He says that from the Text, Thoreau expresses his disregard for the law and thinks that the law is an expression of the opinion of the well-off in society. Thoreau argues for moral disengagement from the government. He explores the importance of personal action over political action. Carl is respectful of Thoreau’s views; however, he says that Thoreau does not accept the libertarian Principle that individuals are guided by their agreements and engagements. Carl argues that perhaps the societal divide at the time would legitimize Thoreau’s actions, for instance, his refusal to pay taxes.
Carl disagrees with Thoreau’s views; for example, he states that Thoreau was opposed to slavery and the Mexican war; he, however, does not give his reasons for opposing. Further, Thoreau does not provide a mapping work for the peaceful and free society he wants. Carl contradicts the previous and current interpretations of the essay. He suggests that Thoreau’s text manifested social and political libertarianism since choice and association guide human conscience.
Fanuzzi, Robert. “Thoreau’s Urban Imagination.” American Literature, Volume 68, No 2 (1996): 321-346. Print.
He explores Thoreau’s, Walden Story. He states that Thoreau went to the country to find the city. To him, the city is both present in the Walden story. It is only present through illusions of city life. He says that if Thoreau resided in Boston, it would have been easy to endow him with urban imagination. According to Fanuzzi, the main challenge Walden poses is the free imagination of Thoreau about urbanism and the construction of the social space.
Morgan, Winifred. “‘Bartleby’ and the Failure of Conventional Virtue.” Renascence 45.4 (summer 1993): 257-27. Print.
Morgan Wilfred explores Bartleby, a story by Herman Melville. He informs the reader that most of Herman Melville’s stories are based on voyages. The Bartley, however, is not a voyage story but a story of Wall Street. He starts by telling the encounters of the narrator with Bartley. He goes further to present the critics’ argument on the Bartley story. Wilfred states that some critics, such as Arvin, Dillingham, and Pribex, to name a few, interpret Bartley’s common strange behavior as inhumane and depict the forces of modern society. Morgan agrees that by Bartley sending the narrator to church on Sunday morning, he wants to be identified as a staunch Christian. He adds that using biblical quotations in the text manifests listening skills and a better interpretation of the bible.
Drain, Kim. “Poe’s Death-Watches and the Architecture of Doubt.” New England Review 27.2 (2006): 169-177. Print.
Drain Kim explores her understanding of the Raven by Edgar Allen Poe. Drain understands Poe’s stories more than she dreams about. She says that the structure of Poe’s stories and poems is architectural. She adds that the strong opinions expressed by Poe in his writing are strongly related to the interior decoration and landscaping gardening fields. Many things are alive in Poe’s work, or at least imbued with mute intelligence. For instance, one of his most disturbing stories, “Bernice,” concerns a monomaniacal man’s obsession with his cousin’s teeth. To these teeth “long, narrow, and excessively white,” the story’s narrator assigns “a sensitive and sentient power, “capable “even when unassisted by the lips . . . of moral expression.” In short, to his horror, this man comes to think of Bernice’s teeth as “ideas.” And in one of the most grotesque scenes in all of Poe’s work, he pulls these ideas, these teeth, from his cousin’s mouth during one of her paralyzing fits of epilepsy.
With a student-centered approach, I create engaging and informative blog posts that tackle relevant topics for students. My content aims to equip students with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed academically and beyond.
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