Smoking behaviour in pregnant Maltese females

The smoking behaviour of a randomly selected group of pregnant Maltese females attending the Antenatal clinic at Karin Grech Hospital, Malta was studied during the first four months of 1988. The group was also screened with regard to educational attainment, occupation and attitudes to smoking. It was found out that 45.4%, used to smoke before getting pregnant while 22.6% still smoked during their current pregnancy. The reasons for and the duration of the smoking habit are among the findings that are discussed.peer-reviewe

An evaluation of in-patient respite care at St. Vincent de Paul Residence

Aim: To identify the multi-dimensional characteristics and need for inter-disciplinary input associated with in-patient respite care. Methods: During the period January-December 2007, 91 in-patient respite users, aged ≥60 years, were assessed on admission for respite care at St. Vincent de Paule Residence. Assessment instruments used included the Barthel Index, the Mini-Mental State Examination, a Caregiver Strain Index, the Functional Oral Intake Scale and the Communicative Effectiveness Index. Findings: Of the study group (n=91), 65% of respite users were found to be suffering from moderate to severe dementia (Mini-Mental State Examination score 0-20). High dependency on the Barthel Index (0-7/20) was found in 52% of cases whilst 45% had low dependency (13-20/20). Carer strain was reported in 60% of care-givers (carers). Interdisciplinary input requirements in the group studied included nursing in 85%, dental (83%), speech language pathology (70%), physiotherapy (39%), occupational therapy (38%), medical (33%) and social worker assistance (24%). Conclusion: Elderly respite users are a mixed group with multiple and diverse needs. In their own homes, these care needs are principally met by informal helpers who are frequently under stress. The expansion of in-patient respite services will reinforce the informal community care network and will help avoid or postpone long-term institutionalisation.peer-reviewedpeer-reviewe