The Kite Runner By Khaled Hosseini - 1624 Words

In the novel, The Kite Runner, written by Khaled Hosseini, there is the stark notice of the surrounding of an young boy named Amir. The novel is full of many emotional conflicts that Amir endures. The Kite Runner depicts a history upbringing that is overshadowed by the constraints of the modern era. As the story is told, we see that it is narrated by the main character Amir. However it doesn’t follow himself as he progressives through life as a regular self narrative story would often do. Khaled Hosseini, the author of the book, tells the story as if he is recalling events in the past of Amir that leads to where Amir is at the conclusion of the book. The story starts as setting the scene for where and how Amir is raised as a young boy in Kabul, Afghanistan. It is clearly illustrated that Amir grows up surrounded by wealth and values of not only muslim and middle easter values, but also western values. As the story progresses we notice how Amir see’s relationships around him as a young boy. Amir’s feelings and thoughts about his father, Baba, are seen as a scope he looks through towards others. Amir feels that no matter what he does, his father treats him with animosity and seems disappointed towards every action taken. Amir describes Baba’s exterior outlook, for that is all he knows of at the time. Baba is depicted as a strong willed man, surrounded by wealth and and a set of morals that are followed strictly and used as a tool to see others around him. AmirShow MoreRelatedThe Kite Runner, by Khaled Hosseini883 Words   |  4 Pagesregret from past encounters and usually feel guilty and bitter about the situation. The Kite Runner, by Khaled Hosseini, revolves around the theme of redemption. Redemption can be used as a cure for guilt. Throughout the novel, the author shows that redemption requires some sort of sacrifice and the only way that is possible is if you can forgive yourself from the mistakes you have made in the past. Khaled Hosseini effectively portrays redemption through motifs such as rape, irony and flashbacks, symbolismRead MoreThe Kite Runner By Khaled Hosseini1651 Words   |  7 Pages  Ã‚  Ã‚   The novel â€Å"The Kite Runner† by Khaled Hosseini describes the life of a boy, Amir. Amir’s best friend and brother (although that part isn’t known until towards the end), Hassan, plays a major role in Amir’s life and how he grows up. Hosseini portrays many sacrifices that are made by Hassan and Amir. Additionally, Amir seeks redemption throughout much of the novel. By using first person point of view, readers are able to connect with Amir and understand his pain and yearning for a way to be redeemedRead MoreThe Kite Runner By Khaled Hosseini1655 Words   |  7 PagesSarah Singer Major Works Data Form Title: The Kite Runner Author: Khaled Hosseini Date of Publication: 2003 Genre: Historical Fiction Historical information about the period of publication: Since the September 11th attacks in 2001, the United States has been at war with Afghanistan. Their goals were to remove the Taliban, track down those in charge of the attacks, and destroy Al-Qaeda. Biographical information about the author: Khaled Hosseini was born in Kabul, Afghanistan, in 1965. HIs motherRead MoreThe Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini1098 Words   |  5 PagesIn The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini, we learn a lot about Amir the main character, and Hassan his servant/brother. In the beginning Hassan and Amir’s relationship was one of brotherly love despite the fact that Hassan was a Hazara and Amir a Pashtun. Back in the 1970’s race and religion played a big part in Kabul and these two races were not suppose to have relationships unless it was owner (Pashtun) and servant (Hazara). Baba Amir’s father had an affair with Hassan’s mother, but it was kept aRead MoreThe Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini1313 Words   |  5 Pagesis not unique to just J.K. Rowling. Khaled Hosseini also incorporates life experiences into some of his novels. A prime example of this is The Kite Runner. The storyline of this novel reflects his past to create a journey of a young Afghanistan boy, whose name is Amir. This boy changes drastically throughout his lifetime from a close minded, considerably arrogant boy to an open hearted and minded man. This emotional and mental trip is partially based on Khaled Hosseini’s own life. Throughout Hosseini’sRead MoreThe Kite Runner By Khaled Hosseini1908 Words   |  8 Pages​In the novel, â€Å"The Kite Runner†, written by Khaled Hosseini, was taken place in Afghanistan during the 1970’s to the year of 2002. Many historical events happened during this time period and Hosseini portrayed it into his novel. Kabul, the capitol of Afghanistan, was a free, living area for many Afghanistan families to enjoy the life they were given. Until one day, Afghanistan was then taken over and attacked. In the novel, Amir, the protagonist, must redeem himself and the history behind his actionsRead MoreThe Kite Runner By Khaled Hosseini1050 Words   |  5 Pagesâ€Å"There is a way to be good again.† (Hosseini 334). This quote given by Rahim Khan to Amir holds a great amount of force and symbolism. In theory, this quote symbolizes the beginning of Amir’s path to redemption. The eye-opening Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini tells about the struggles of Afghanistan before and during the Taliban, and one’s struggle for redemption and acceptance. With regards to the opening quote, some see Amir’s actions as selfish. However, others may believe that Amir truly changedRead MoreThe Kite Runner By Khaled Hosseini1583 Words   |  7 Pagesnovel the Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini, Amir, the main character, shares his thoughts and actions due to his poor decisions. The problems he encountered were all because of the sin committed in his youth. His sins taunted the beginning of his life and gave him a troublesome memory full of guilt. As the novel continued, Amir attempted to disengage the memory of his sin and forget about it. Amir then faced the long bumpy road to redemption. Khaled Hosseini’s novel the Kite Runner is about sinRead MoreThe Kite Runner, by Khaled Hosseini871 Words   |  4 Pagesthat person is trying to fix that mistake. This also applies to the novel The Kite Runner. The story revolves around the main character Amir, and his childhood friend, Hassan. After Amir came to America with Baba, his father, he still regrets the things he had done to his childhood friend. He left Hassan getting raped by Assef in a small alley in 1975. Thereafter, Amir always feel regret and seeks for redemption. Hosseini -the author, argues that redemption can be achieved by helping others, teachRead MoreThe Kite Runner By Khaled Hosseini3402 Words   |  14 Pagestitle â€Å"The Kite Runner† is symbolic as fighting kites and the kite runnings are impacting moments in the novel. Hassan was the best kite runner in Kabul, if not the whole country, after Amir won the kite fighting the running of that last blue kite triggered the monumental changes for Amir. For the beginning of the story the kite running was associated with Hassan’s rape and Amir’s grief. As kites appear throughout the story, they begin Amir’s story and also end it. Amir flying the kite with Sohrab

Theme Of Revenge In Oresteia - 924 Words

The main focal point in which the Oresteia attempts to convey to its readers is that revenge is a continuous and unending cycle. The concept of an â€Å"eye for an eye† is heavily emphasized throughout the story and its characters. Therefore is someone is murdered, than a next of kin or relative will extract vengeance upon the murderer. Which thus turns an attempt at justice into simply another tragedy. And then a new chosen one will then later be selected to seek and obtain revenge on the previous wrongdoer in which the cycle continues. The furies within the play also play a crucial role in demonstrating the ruthless and unending nature of revenge through their methods of torturing and haunting the martyr’s blood-related family for eternity.†¦show more content†¦For instance, if the United States were to launch a nuclear missile as Russia’s capital, what would happen? Retaliation. Russia would then do the exact same or possibly even worse directed at th e United States. Our blindness to come to the attention of this seemingly chronic problem within our world has nearly lead humankind to the brink of its own destruction on many different occasions. Of which, the closest humankind has gotten to destroying itself throughout our history was during the brief time frame of the cuban missile crisis during the Cold War. We got so close in fact, that the simple push of a button could have lead to total nuclear annihilation. Therefore, the principle of revenge has been with us in our darkest moments as well as our everyday lives. And even in our legal and justice systems the same principle applies. Why is a man who committed murder given the death penalty? Since when does two wrongs equal one right? These are the questions we must ask ourselves as we examine the meaning behind humankinds need for the extraction of revenge. The idea of revenge has existed as a staple of human civilization for as long as we as a species can remember. Mankind’s uncontrollable desire towards greed, and our natural tendency to be self-serving, is essentially the quintessential metaphorical roadblock that impedes our future progress. We are the onlyShow MoreRelatedThe Theme of Family1694 Words   |  7 PagesThe Theme of Family in the Oresteia and the Medea Understanding Greek tragedy depends upon tracing the growth of characters and themes within the plays and how they help to highlight the greater significance of the work. A prominent theme discussed by the tragedians is that of family and is dominant in both the Oresteia and the Medea. The Oresteia centers on concepts of what family is and how obligations within a family transcend personal desires and dictate the life of individuals. The Medea onRead More Progression from Evil to Good in Oresteia Essay1463 Words   |  6 PagesProgression from Evil to Good in Oresteia Aeschylus use of darkness and light as a consistent image in the Oresteia depicts a progression from evil to good, disorder to order. In the Oresteia, there exists a situation among mortals that has gotten out of control; a cycle of death has arisen in the house of Atreus. There also exists a divine disorder within the story which, as the situation of the mortals, must be brought to resolution: the Furies, an older generation of gods, are in conflictRead MoreFemale Roles In The Oresteia By Aeschylus1022 Words   |  5 PagesFemale Roles in The Oresteia â€Å"That woman – she manoeuvers like a man† (Aeschylus 103). This quote from the Greek tragedy, The Oresteia by Aeschylus, introduces readers to a theme of the piece: the role of women. Furthermore, this tragedy gives the reader a view on how women played a role in ancient Greek society. Additionally, it highlights the reaction, from Greek men, to women in leadership roles. In the following, you will find a historical account of the role of Greek women, and how AeschylusRead MoreThe Themes of Law and Order in Oresteia823 Words   |  3 Pagesï » ¿The Themes of the Oresteia The play termed the Oresteia is actually a trilogy that is built around the family of Agamemnon. Traditionally, one of the primary themes of the three plays is a movement from a traditional belief in revenge for wrongs to one of justice and the rule of law. The purpose of this paper is to discuss all three of the plays and look at how justice is conceived in each. Agamemnon The first play, Agamemnon, tells about the return of the King from the Trojan wars and howRead MoreThe Oresteia By Sophocles, The Libation Bearers, And The Eumenides1276 Words   |  6 PagesAeschylus Writing Assignment â€Å"The Oresteia† written by the ancient Greek playwright Aeschylus, who showed three events of the play Agamemnon, The Libation Bearers, and The Eumenides. The three plays were performed at the annual Dionysia festival in Athens in 458 BCE. The play highlighted different types of themes but the most important one is the theme of justice and injustice. Both themes were seen in different parts of the play where even the gods played a role in determining the justice andRead MoreThe Libation Bearers and Hamlet1308 Words   |  6 PagesThe Libation Bearers and Hamlet Many of Shakespeare’s plays draw from classical Greek themes, plot and metaphors. The tragedies of Sophocles, Aeschylus, Euripides and Homer have themes like royal murders, assassinations by near relatives, the supernatural, ghostly visits, and vengeful spirits of the dead- themes which reappear in Shakespeare’s tragedies with a difference. Shakespeare’s tragic hero Hamlet and Aeschylus’s Orestes have a great deal in common. Both the plays are set in a time when theRead MoreThe Libation Bearers and Hamlet1302 Words   |  6 PagesThe Libation Bearers and Hamlet Many of Shakespeare’s plays draw from classical Greek themes, plot and metaphors. The tragedies of Sophocles, Aeschylus, Euripides and Homer have themes like royal murders, assassinations by near relatives, the supernatural, ghostly visits, and vengeful spirits of the dead- themes which reappear in Shakespeare’s tragedies with a difference. Shakespeare’s tragic hero Hamlet and Aeschylus’s Orestes have a great deal in common. Both the plays are set in a time whenRead MoreEssay on Oresteia: Revenge718 Words   |  3 Pages In the Oresteia there seems to be a continuing cycle of revenge. Someone is murdered and then a relative must kill the murderer, therefore becoming a murderer himself. A new chosen one is then selected to take revenge on that person who killed before him and the cycle goes on and on. The furies also play a part in this cycle of revenge. They seek out those who kill their blood relatives and haunt them and torture them for eternity. So basically they also take revenge for the ones that have beenRead MoreThe Significance of Animal Symbolism and its Effect on Gender Role1699 Words   |  7 Pagesmetaphor or simile which better visualizes the authors true meaning. Lions have many different personality traits which make them extremely diverse creatures. This also promotes various applicatio ns to characters in literary works. In two works, the Oresteia by Aeschylus and Euripides Bacchae, we see a continuing line of examples of lion imagery. Alongside this literary aspect, the analysis of characters gender roles is possible. When observing these two concepts both individually and in conjunctionRead MoreRole Of The Chorus : Viewer Or Participant?1567 Words   |  7 PagesThe Role of the Chorus: Viewer or Participant? Throughout the canon of Greek Tragedy, playwrights have told many stories with a wide range of characters. Tales of revenge, redemption, lust, greed, and pride, as told by gods, kings, heroes, and murderers among many others. Throughout all of these works, one aspect remains consistent: that of the chorus. This group, which interjects periodically throughout the play to sing in unison, is a feature common to all Greek tragedies. That being said, when

Types of Chronic Diseases for Education Techniques- myassignmenthelp

Question: Discuss about theTypes of Chronic Diseases for Education Technique. Answer: Overview This essay demonstrates an understanding of health promotion strategies and education techniques that address the need for patients with chronic diseases. It focuses on the case study of Mr. George Polaris, a 62-year old Italian man who was presented to the hospital with breathlessness, fever and productive cough. After being treated for the chest infection on his first admission to the hospital, Mr. Polaris underwent a series of respiratory tests and was eventually diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). He had a history of stomach disease, Gastro esophageal reflux (GERD) after which he was prescribed Esomeprazole Magnesium to neutralize or control the acid produced in the stomach. After being discharged from the hospital, Mr. Polaris condition was followed up by a registered nurse where his current vital signs read normal except the blood pressure which read at 135/88mmHg. Following his shortness of breath and severe cough, George confessed to the nurse of bein g a heavy smoker since his teenage hood. The Actual Health Concerns for the Patient Two health concerns manifest in the case of Mr. George; COPD and GERD. The chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a common name for a group of lung diseases (asthma, chronic bronchitis and emphysema) is one of the health concerns that manifest in the patient. The disease is caused by inhalation or long term exposure to noxious substances like tobacco smoke and is characterized by persistent cough, shortness of breath, fever, and a build-up of phlegm in the lungs (Barr et al., 2009). Although the symptoms of the disease dont show up in early stages of life, smoking or working in dusty areas can be some of the key contributing factors to the disease. Shortness of breath is caused by narrowing of the bronchial tubes (air passages). Luckily, medications such as Spiriva and Ventolin can help open up the tubes of a patient hence making breathing easier (Rascon-Aguilar et al., 2011). On the other hand, GERD is a chronic disease that occurs when the stomach acid or food content flows back into the food pipe. According to Jennings et al., (2015) the reflux irritates lining of the food pipe hence cause the Gastro esophageal reflux disease. Although there are different treatments for the condition, antacid medications like Esomeprazole magnesium can be used to limit or neutralize the stomach acid (Jennings et al., 2015). Statistically, extra esophageal manifestation linked with the reflux disease occurs in almost 76% of patients with severe hoarseness, 48% of patients with non-cardiac chest pain, as well as 81% of asthmatic patients. Unfortunately, over 47% of patient with the disease do not have endoscopic evidence of the illness. Knowing the Right Medication for Treatment and Management of COPD To control or manage lung diseases, your physicist might prescribe different medications. Since chronic obstructive airways disease cannot be reversed or cured, complying with a prescribed medication helps protect against exacerbations and reduce symptoms such as breathlessness, fever and chest pain (Kempainen et al., 2007). Although patients are prescribed different medications according to their health, it is important for them to understand what the drugs are and how they work, how to take them, possible side effects of the medication and length of time the effects will last as Kempainen et al., (2007) postulates. If unsure about the information provided in the medications, it is important to seek help from a respiratory nurse or pharmacists for a better understanding. This is because patients need to be confident as well as informed about the medication they use. Since medications cause side effects to different people, its vital to note that a small percentage of patients using those medicines may contract the side effects (Raupach et al., 2008). As it is evident that COPD medications target the respiratory system, majority of the medications are inhaled using inhalers such that it is delivered straight to the system. According to Raupach et al., (2008) proper technique is crucial in delivery of the medication effectively. However, to ensure that one is receiving complete benefits of the medication, the inhaler needs to be often checked by a physicist or the respiratory nurse. When the severity of the disease or symptoms persists, a doctor can prescribe additional drugs (Divo et al., 2012). The severity of the symptoms in the case for COPD can include shortness of breath, fever and cough. Ideally, the rate of exacerbations and infections increases with severity of the disease. The type of medications that can be prescribed include reliever medications (to relieve increased symptoms of shortness of breath), maintenance medication (to control the symptoms and help protect against flare ups for a long term period), preventive medication (Usually used when the COPD becomes severe and experience flare ups) and lastly is the exacerbation medications for short-term usage for the COPD symptoms (Barr et al., 2009). When diagnosed with COAD, a doctor can prescribe reliever medications first and when the severity increases, the doctor can prescribe other medications for maintenance. For example, a patient may find himself on three distinct medications each with an inhaler. Since this is normal, its good to understand the role of each medication and take them as prescribed. This topic can be of great significance to Mr. Polaris in understanding the type of medication prescribed by his doctor. As seen above, Mr. Polaris was prescribed three medications which are supposed to be taken concurrently. They include Ventolin, Spiriva and Esomeprazole magnesium or Nexium. The patient should understand that Ventolin is an oral inhalation medication used to relieve acute asthma symptoms that start with one inhalation as a starting dose. For the case of George, he is prescribed up to four inhalations of Ventolin a day, but he should note that overdose of the same can cause adverse effects such as tremor, hypokalemia, and hyperactivity. Another medication prescribed to the patient is Spiriva. Mr. Polari should understand that the medication is used to prevent asthma attacks and narrowing of air passage in the lungs. As per doctors prescription, the patient is supposed to have two oral inhalations a day. Since Mr George has had a history of GERD, the doctor prescribe d him Nexium, an antacid medication to neutralize the excessive amount of acid in the stomach. One key thing Mr. George should understand is that Nexium does not go hand in hand with cigarette smoking. Therefore, he should shun completely from the habit to ensure the medication is effective. Pharmacotherapy for Gastro- Esophageal Reflux There are various treatments for GERD that depend on the severity of the disease. They include: Antacids; Antacids neutralize acid content of the stomach and contain elements such as calcium, magnesium and aluminum (Wahlqvist et al., 2008). The drugs containing these elements are very effective in treating GORD; however, frequent dosing is significant for severe diseases. Therefore, the recommended dosage remains a crucial factor for antacids in esophageal disease. Irrespective of common belief, the actual dosage has no or little influence on effectiveness. As Smith and Wrobel (2014) states, antacids like Gaviscon form a raft that suspends on the gastric content to provide a barrier to the esophageal mucosa. However, studies show that these agents are more effective compared to other antacids when it comes to treatment of gastro esophageal disease. Some of its side effects include diarrhea and constipation. However, in renal failure patients, toxicity levels of aluminum and magnesium could accumulate thus regular use of these agents needs to be minimized by such people (Rodrigu ez et al., 2008). It should be noted that any medication increasing gastric content in the stomach may also lower the absorption of such agents. Histamine receptor antagonists (HRA); HRA are less costly compared to proton pump inhibitors (Ringbaek et al., 2010). Examples of HRA include Nizatidine, Cimetidine, Famotidine and Ranitidine. Among these drugs, Cimetidine is known to have unique adverse effects and the most clinically significant medication interactions. The drug has reportedly decreased the clearance of other medications and blocks the tubular production of medicines like Metformin. Proton pump inhibitors (PPI); PPIs are more effective than HRA when it comes to treating gastro esophageal reflux disease. This is because they block the final pathways of acid production compared to HRA which block only one passage (Kempainen et al., 2007). Evidence also shows that compliance to the anti-secretory effects of histamine receptor antagonists may occur, but the tachyphylaxis doesnt happen with the PPIs. However, most clinicians consider PPIs as the drug of choice when it comes to the treatment of gastro esophageal reflux disease. According to Kempainen et al., (2007), some of the common PPIs which are in the market include Lansoprazole, Omeprazole, Esomeprazole, and Rabeprazole. Although drug interactions are rare with these medications, Esomeprazole has been known to increase the anti- coagulant effect of Warfarin. A majority of gastro esophageal symptoms are well controlled with a standard dose of such symptoms. However, high dosages of a drug like Lansoprazole are re quired in a small percentage. Moreover, a small percentage of patients may suffer nocturnal heartburn symptoms irrespective of the proton pump inhibitor treatment. In such instances, a possible strategy can be used as PPI in the morning plus a standard dose of histamine receptor antagonist before going to bed. Length of therapy; since a high number of people with erosive esophagitis could be healed with eight weeks of proton pump inhibitor medication, a subgroup will require chronic lifelong medication. However, maintenance practices are very controversial despite the fact that many people remain symptom-free with step-down approaches (Divo et al., 2012). Moreover, a subset of people will require lifelong treatment with surgery or proton pump inhibitors. This implies that an individualized technique to the treatment of gastro esophageal is a superior strategy. This topic can be useful in the case of Mr. Polaris when it comes to Gastro esophageal reflux disease. Although he has been diagnosed with GERD, Mr. Polaris should understand the different medications prescribed to him and their various purposes. He has been prescribed Esomeprazole, an antibiotic to reduce or neutralize excessive stomach acid. Also, the patient should understand the correct dosage of the drug and whether it should be taken with other medications. As presented in the case study, the patient also has the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, so with continued smoking, the medications could not be effective when it comes to treatment of the diseases. Most importantly, it would be safe for the patient to know the different types of treatments for the disease as well as their effects on the body. Client Education Strategies for Patients with COPD and GERD Pulmonary interventions for COPD patients Pulmonary rehabilitation is a system of care that involves education, exercise regimen and physiological support delivered by therapists to COPD patients (Barr et al., 2009). It helps reduce disability, symptoms and improve both physical as well as emotional support. Pulmonary rehabilitation can also help patients achieve an optimal level of interdependence in the community. As Barr et al., (2009) holds, the exercise training assists in building patients confidence, boost breathing strategies and optimize cardiovascular fitness. Nurses can use education to explain the disease progression, how the treatment works, how to use the drugs and when to call for help. However, the main component of education advice is to help patients quit smoking like in the case of Mr. Polaris. Patient education on GERD medication Nurses should educate patients on all the factors including medications that could worsen their gastro esophageal symptoms since lifestyle medication alone cannot provide enough relief for the patients (Rascon-Aguilar et al., 2011). Essentially, adults diagnosed with the disease should be offered lifestyle changes as a first line therapy. Advice also needs to focus on the circumstances of individual GERD patients. Conclusion The chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is very common among adults. However, managing gastro esophageal reflux symptoms can help relieve COPD, but when left untreated, the symptoms can worsen over time. Some indications that GERD could be contributing to your COPD include; breathlessness, coughing and heartburn. However, with adherence to the right medication and abstinence from triggers like smoking, one can achieve a better control of both conditions. References Barr, R. G., Celli, B. R., Mannino, D. M., Petty, T., Rennard, S. I., Sciurba, F. C., ... Turino, G. M. (2009). Comorbidities, patient knowledge, and disease management in a national sample of patients with COPD. The American journal of medicine, 122(4), 348-355. Divo, M., Cote, C., de Torres, J. P., Casanova, C., Marin, J. M., Pinto-Plata, V., ... Celli, B. (2012). Comorbidities and risk of mortality in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. American journal of respiratory and critical care medicine, 186(2), 155-161. Jennings, J. H., Thavarajah, K., Mendez, M. P., Eichenhorn, M., Kvale, P., Yessayan, L. (2015). Predischarge bundle for patients with acute exacerbations of COPD to reduce readmissions and ED visits: a randomized controlled trial. CHEST Journal, 147(5), 1227-1234. Kempainen, R. R., Savik, K., Whelan, T. P., Dunitz, J. M., Herrington, C. S., Billings, J. L. (2007). High prevalence of proximal and distal gastroesophageal reflux disease in advanced COPD. CHEST Journal, 131(6), 1666-1671. Rascon-Aguilar, I. E., Pamer, M., Wludyka, P., Cury, J., Vega, K. J. (2011). Poorly treated or unrecognized GERD reduces quality of life in patients with COPD. Digestive diseases and sciences, 56(7), 1976-1980. Raupach, T., Bahr, F., Herrmann, P., Luethje, L., Heusser, K., Hasenfu, G., ... Andreas, S. (2008). Slow breathing reduces sympathoexcitation in COPD. European Respiratory Journal, 32(2), 387-392. Ringbaek, T., Brndum, E., Martinez, G., Thgersen, J., Lange, P. (2010). Long?term effects of 1?year maintenance training on physical functioning and health status in patients with COPD: a randomized controlled study. Journal of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation and prevention, 30(1), 47-52. Rodrguez, L. A. G., Ruigmez, A., Martn-Merino, E., Johansson, S., Wallander, M. A. (2008). Relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease and COPD in UK primary care. CHEST Journal, 134(6), 1223-1230. Smith, M. C., Wrobel, J. P. (2014). Epidemiology and clinical impact of major comorbidities in patients with COPD. International journal of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, 9, 871. Wahlqvist, P., Karlsson, M., Johnson, D., Carlsson, J., Bolge, S. C., WALLANDER, M. A. (2008). Relationship between symptom load of gastro?oesophageal reflux disease and health?related quality of life, work productivity, resource utilization and concomitant diseases: survey of a US cohort. Alimentary pharmacology therapeutics, 27(10), 960-970.

Internationalization of small and medium enterprises effects on operations and performance

Abstract Globalization operations are the current trends in which businesses pursue in a bid to be competitively advantaged. Small and medium enterprises have as a result embarked on opening their branches and operation of their businesses in overseas markets.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Internationalization of small and medium enterprises: effects on operations and performance specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This is what has made the researcher to do a research by taking a sample of 20 SMEs in the UK and gather data from the employees and top management. It would be observed in the research that the performance and operational efficiency of SMEs is enhanced by foreign operations. There will thus be a swell on the financial reports presented by these businesses. Introduction A large number of multinational firms are small and medium enterprises. The contribution of the SMEs on the economic development and th eir impacts on the international arena has made it a major area for research. The lion’s part of the economies of underdeveloped and developing economies is controlled by small and medium enterprises (Athavale, 2006). A considerable proportion of the size of the economies of developed nations is also determined by the SMEs. The need to go global has led to the internalization of the operations of small and medium firms. The attention on the operations of the SMEs is epitomized by the quantity of research undertaken on the contributions of SMEs on the economic performance of various economies (Kirby S, 2003). It is now common to find branches and agents of small and medium enterprises in overseas economies. The premises that are used in the classification of operations as either small or big is based on factors like number of customers, capital base, number of employees, technologies adopted and the size of the premises among others (Aitken Harrison, 1999). In UK, a lionâ₠¬â„¢s share of the market is controlled by small and medium enterprises. Justification of the study topic Several researchers have conducted their studies on the various factors that have led to the international operations of SMEs and developed the role of internationalization on the growth of these organizations. More research has also been conducted on the strategies and structures put in place to ensure firms go global.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Little research has been done on the impact of globalization on the performance and operations of SMEs. It is for these reasons that the researcher has picked on this topic to further reduce the information gap. The research area has also been desired by the urge to comprehend the trends that are likely to be observed in the internationalization of small business. The impact of internationalization is also important in the sense that it may have a considerable impact of the economic variables e.g. employment, economic growth and levels of economic interactions. Objectives of the study The researcher has carried out this study with the following objectives in mind: To understand the reason for internationalization of small and medium enterprises To determine the barriers of internationalization of SMEs To elaborately and determine the impacts internationalization of SMEs on their performance and operations. Literature Review Reasons for internationalization SME’s desire to operate in overseas markets has been propelled by many factors. According to Turnbull (1987), some of the critical reasons why small firms have decided to globalize include: The need to increase their financial returns- internationalization will increase the firm’s turnover and result into economies of scale production which reduces the costs of operations. Small and medium firms have thus internationalized their acti vities in order to increase sales, minimize costs and maximize revenues (Burgel, Fier, Litch, Murray, 2001). To exploit new advanced technologies- SMEs that are in search of new and advanced technologies have always internationalized in a bid to utilize and benefit from the technology that better. Technology reduces costs, increase output and increase efficiency and effectiveness in production (Aitken Harrison, 1999) To enter into new markets (widen consumer base) – the availability of a wide market and international consumers, motivates the expansion of the SMEs in the foreign market. Kirby S (2003), asserts that International operations also enhance diversification reducing the financial shocks likely to be experienced in operations.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Internationalization of small and medium enterprises: effects on operations and performance specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The entry of SMEs in new markets will result into a modification of the promotional message that is used to market in the global market. This is because of the diverse cultures language and the media coverage. Benefit from a pool of qualified human resource – firms that operate globally can benefit from the availability of a large pool of qualified expertise. Expertise improves the quality of decisions and policies that are made by an organization (Grant, Jammine, Thomas, 1988). It thus motivates small and medium enterprises to globalize and use these production factors. To exploit the idle factors of production the firms- SMEs are endowed with resources that they at times fail to completely utilize in the domestic market. The idle resources can therefore be put into production by internationalizing. This will reduce the level of unused resources and increase the production level. The SMEs will therefore make more gains in their operations. Most of these factors are caused by the need t o remain competitive in the market that is characterized by stiff competition from known and unknown, hostile and friendly, intended and unintended competitors (Athavale, 2006). Irrespective of whom the competitors are small and medium firms have to take necessary precautions in order to ensure their survival. Environmental scanning is mandated by the need to retain market share and improve financial performance in the fast changing environment caused by decline in government regulation and the increase in the size of the informal sector (Grant, Jammine, Thomas, 1988) Obstacles of internationalization of SMEs According to Moen (1999), there are various factors that hinder internationalization of SME. These include: Financial constraint- in undertaking international expansion firms require adequate resources to enable it stabilize in the foreign market. SMEs have majorly been constrained by the resources needed for establishing operations of their activities.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Legal and regulatory framework- the different economies where multinational firms operate is characterized by diverse government regulations and changing legal framework. Some countries deliberately promulgate rules intended to reduce and bar firms from penetrating their markets. This has reduced heavily the operations of firms in international markets. Several SMEs have as well been faced by continuous legal proceedings for failing to act within the legal framework. Trade barriers and huge tariffs account for heavy costs of internationalization. Different cultural practices and beliefs- culture is the beliefs, norms, convictions and practices upheld in a given society (Grant, Jammine, Thomas, 1988). International operations require high level of cultural understanding if a firms product gas to perform above par in the international market. SMEs failure to customize their product and promotional message to suit the international, market adversely influence their performance (Turnbu ll, 1987) Competitive disadvantages- global market experience drastic environmental and market changes that affect the trends and precedents of business performance. SMEs are always characterized by poor capability of analyzing and predicting the market trends. This has further hindered their performance in the global market. Large multinational companies have also engaged in an unfair trade competition which has led to the demise of SMEs activities. Internationalization strategies There are different ways which a firm can use to globalize. According to Aitken Harrison(1999), the internationalization strategies include: Exporting- in exporting, firms engage in production in home country and export their products to the foreign market. It can involve either direct or indirect exporting. In direct exporting firms will use its employees in exportation whereas in indirect exporting, there is the use of external parties (Kirby S, 2003). This strategy is dependent on the transport costs and the import duty imposed by the importing nation. Forming alliances- SMEs can internalize their operation by entering into alliances with foreign firms that will help penetrate the market efficiently and quickly. Moen (1999) opines that strategic alliances are advantageous since it permits quick entry in the foreign market, synergetic effects of alliances and the ability to use the distribution channel of the strategic partners. It also involves the sharing of costs and risks which thereby minimize the risk factor. The kind of strategic alliance entered into dictates the success or failure of entry (Burgel, Fier, Litch, Murray, 2001). Firms must there fore identify objectively and carefully the strategic partner that will enable successful entry. Foreign direct investment- firms that decide to internalize in this manner can do this in two forms: Greenfield investments or merger and acquisition. In green field investment completely new firm is formed or constructed while merger involves the purchase of existing firm or amalgamation with a different firm (Aitken Harrison, 1999). FDI is preferred where exporting involved huge transport cost, high custom duties and where the business intends to retain total control and confide its business know how. Most SMEs have adopted this means of internationalization due to lack of sufficient resources to introduce their operations in the foreign market (Moen, 1999) The type of internationalization strategy that a firm adopts depends on the firm’s resources, size, type of product and the intention of going global. Careful scanning is necessary in making choice of the strategy to be adopted as it involves the utilization of firm’s resources. Conceptual framework Internationalization of SMEs has impacted greatly on their performance and radically changed the way of operations. The SMEs that decide to internationalize has realized a swell on the business turnover and increase in the returns as exhibited by t he increased profits after tax. The increased sales turnover of SMEs due to internationalization is attributed to the expanded market size and increased home sales turnover. When a firm internalize, it positively impacts on the goodwill in the domestic market and increased customer loyalty (Turnbull, 1987). The further increase in returns is pegged on the economies of scale production that results into a reduction on the cost per unit. Proposition formulation The research therefore attempts to formulate proposition that aims at explaining the reasons of the increased performance and efficient operations exhibited by SMEs that internalize. The increased performance is thus explained with the following propositions: Proposition A: SMEs internationalization result in increased sales turnover When SMEs internalize, they increase their areas of coverage. This therefore results into the increase in the production and the sales turnover. The business increases sales and increase in the eco nomies of scale makes the business realize increased profits. The result of the wider coverage makes the business compile annual reports by consolidating its earnings from the foreign market. Proposition B: internationalization of SMEs impacts positively on the improved operation efficiency Efficiency refers to the manner in which the resources are utilized reducing the wastages and losses (Grant, Jammine, Thomas, 1988). With expanded area of operation, the businesses will minimize its losses as a result of the improved and modern technologies adopted in the production process. Capital intensive techniques will be adopted to support the increased demand and ensure standardization of production. Proposition C. Quality of management and better decision making arise with internationalization decisions. Multinational firms have to engage qualified and competent managers who possess conceptual skills that enable managers to make decision and anticipate the effects of their decision (Ath avale, 2006). Small and medium enterprise firms that invest in the foreign markets are therefore compelled to recruit managers who are highly qualified. As a result, the operations of these SMEs are improved and the decision process is assesses to ensure that the draw backs that arise from hurried decision making is avoided. Better structures are formulated with internationalization of a business to allow for sufficient coordination of the foreign branches. Proposition D: financial sources increases with internationalization of SMEs When SMEs globalize, they become eligible to acquire debt from both foreign market and increases there credit ratings (Kirby S, 2003) a business that internationalize therefore enhances their ability to obtain more capital that is needed for expansions. Prosition E: SMEs internationalizations lead to the adoption of better and improved technology. SMEs that decide to internalize their operations will be likely to adopt better technology from countries t hat are more advanced than in the home country. Methodology The research to be conducted using this proposal was to determine the impact of internalization of SME’s on their operations. A sample of 20 SME’s were picked out of the thousand in the UK. Both small and medium were picked for the analysis. The 20 were also picked since they indicated consistency in growth of the various elements which were to be considered as mentioned below. The various elements considered are the number and quality of employees and in the businesses selected, the relative annual turnover, technologies employed in production, the spread of branches both in the home and overseas market. The categorization of data in terms of the elements above was done using the various sampling techniques such as simple random, stratified and clustered sampling techniques as well as judgmental sampling techniques for non-numeric characteristics of the SME’s (Grant, Jammine, Thomas, 1988) Primary dat a was gathered by the use of questionnaires. Questionnaires were developed, mailed to some of these organizations and others administered to these organizations orally using the researchers’ assistants. interview schedules were as well prepared to enable the researchers conduct personal interviews which would help in collecting and finding out about very sensitive information e.g. information on their strategic plans and their competitive advantages given that the performance of the 50 SME’s were not the same in all aspects. Interview is an oral administered of a questionnaire or an interview schedule (Burgel, Fier, Litch, Murray, 2001) The criterion that was found to be the most useful in determining the growth and size as well as the internationalization of an SME was the sales turnover. According to Turnbull (1987), an SME is determined as a firm with a sales turnover of over 24 million dollars and in the less developed countries given their weak financial systems, its even determined using a lesser turnover. The number of outlets were also determined more so the number in foreign countries as this would help determine the impact as per the market share since the larger the number of branches the larger the market controlled. The data collected for the study above was all based on the above assumptions. Secondary, sources consisting of the various annual reports from various firms were majorly got from the websites of the varied firms found in developed countries due to their quick adoption of technology. Secondary data of most SME’s in developing countries were sourced from books and financial journals including the gray literature or material. Variables A variable is a measurable characteristic that assumes different values among the subjects (Athavale, 2006). The measure of internalization has been found in terms of the size of FDI resulting into increased outlets. The outlets further raises the growth of the assets of the SMEâ€⠄¢s hence output also goes up through increased turnovers. Internalization in form of FDI of the SME’s is also largely affected by the ratio of the foreign assets to the total assets of the firms. While profitability has been determined as a measure of general performance, profitability to the ratio of assets giving the Return on capital employed (ROCE) gives the perfect measure of performance. Another variable is the ownership-management relationship as a determinant of internalization which in turn which in the end affects the operations of the SME’s. Management abilities like creativity, adoption of the right management styles and the educational qualifications of the managers can also give the firms competitive advantage over the other. The size of the SME’s also performs a significant role in the internalization of the small firms which alternatively affects the operations of the small firms. The size is determined by the sales turnover. Data analysis The d ata collected above will be analyzed by use of statistical and mathematical tool. The return on capital employed will be taken as the dependent variable. The independent variable will include the ratio of outlets to the sales, advertising expenses and sales level, quality of management as a function of strategic level management. Strategic management is the highest level of management concerned with the formulation of policies and the developing of an organizations strategic plan (Aitken Harrison, 1999). The quantitative data will be coded and then classified by use of mathematical techniques like tables, graphs, pie charts and ratios. For the qualitative information, the researcher intends to develop criteria which will be employed in classifying and coding of the data. The information will then be subjected to a regression analysis and a regression equation will be developed to illustrate the prediction of the dependent variable from the independent variables. Correlation coeffic ient will as well be calculated. Correlation is the degree of relatedness of variables (Burgel, Fier, Litch, Murray, 2001).This will enable the research to identify the degree of how the performance and operations of the variables are related. Coefficient of determination will be developed to determine the degree to which the independent variable explains the dependent variable (Grant, Jammine, Thomas, 1988). The pictorial representation of data will be instrumental in the easy and quick understanding of the trends and data comprehension to those with little understanding on complicated mathematical equations. Limitations in the study While conducting the study the researcher will be constrained by several factors. First, the financial limitation will only allow the research to be conducted using a small number of SMEs and a limited number of respondents. As a result, this may compromise on the findings of the research and lead to wrong generalization. The problem posed in this si tuation can be mitigated by the careful selection of appropriate respondents and use of qualified research assistants. The second limitation of the study arises from the scanty data gathered to show the financial performance of the SMEs. Businesses are reluctant to reveal their financial performance and give information on their strategic plan to non members of the organization to help keep is concealed to the competitors (Kirby S, 2003). This thus affected the level of information details that were acquired. The inadequate records that are kept by the SMEs also posed a problem on understanding the operations and data given. This problem can be minimized by disclosing to the respondents the reason for the research and giving assurance of confidentiality on the findings and data collected from their firms (Burgel, Fier, Litch, Murray, 2001). Moreover, the researchers experienced a limitation arising from the spread of the operations of the SMEs. By internationalizing, the operation s of a business become spread in more than one country and sometimes in different continent (Kirby S, 2003). It will be thus a mirage for the researcher to collect data from a specific data and then use the information derived from the sample to make a generalization on the universe. Careful consideration must be made to ensure that the generalization takes into account the diverse nature of SMEs operation. Finally, the researcher may be limited of sufficient knowledge and time required in data collection and analysis. The researcher should therefore increase the number of researchers he intends to employ to reduce the time for data collection. Deadline and a clear time budget are necessary in research to avoid delays (Moen, 1999). FOR THE skills, the researcher can engage qualified research assistants who posses both statistical and mathematical knowledge necessary for data analysis. Conclusions The research enables us to conclude that there is a positive impact on internationaliz ation of SMEs on their performance and operations. The research findings will be used to generalize the effects of internationalization of SMEs on performance and operations. This therefore assists in the bridging the gap that has existed on how internationalization is crucial in improving efficiency on processes and operations of SMEs particularly in the UK. We can therefore explain and draw the impact of globalizing on the increased turnover and employment creation in SMEs that secede to internalize. I also urge researchers to do more research on this area due to the nature and importance of the subject matter. References Aitken, B. J., Harrison, A. E. (1999). Do domestic firms benefit from firect foreign investment? Venezuela: The American Economic Review. Athavale, D. (2006). SMEs can become big brand. New Delhi: Springer. Burgel, O., Fier, A., Litch, G., Murray, G. (2001). The Rapid Internationalization Of High-Tech Young Firms in Germany and the United Kingdom. London: Anglo - German Foundation. Grant, R. M., Jammine, P. A., Thomas, H. (1988). Diversity, Diversification, and Probability Among British Manufacturing Companies. Academy of Management Journal. Kirby, A. D., S, K. (2003). Joint Ventures as an Internationalization Strategy for SMES. Small Business Economics , 21 (3), 229-242. Moen, O. (1999). The relationship between firsize, competetive advantages and expoer perfomance revisited. International Small Business Journal , 18 (1), 53-72. Turnbull, W. P. (1987). A Challenge to the stages theory of internationalization. London: Praeger. This essay on Internationalization of small and medium enterprises: effects on operations and performance was written and submitted by user Alayna Sanchez to help you with your own studies. 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