New Tax Package Could Boost 529 Usage

What a coincidence. On the very same day--December 17, 2010--that I buy back my old company Savingforcollege.com from Bankrate, President Obama signs into law a massive tax and unemployment insurance bill that could end up putting billions of additional dollars into 529 plans. I could not have timed this any better had I tried. Itï ¿ ½s not that the bill creates any significant new advantages for 529 plans; most of the tax benefits associated with 529 plans had already been made permanent before this action. In fact, the new law more directly helps one of the competitors to 529 plans--the Coverdell education savings account--by staving off for two years the expiration of the K-12 provision and certain other improvements made to the ESA that were scheduled to expire at the end of 2010. It also extends the American Opportunity Tax Credit and the above-the-line tuition deduction through 2012. What intrigues me are the "temporary" changes to the gift and estate tax rules under the 2010 Tax Relief Act that will indirectly cause many wealthy parents and grandparents to think about upping their contributions to 529 plans over the next couple of years. Hereï ¿ ½s my thinking: With the estate-tax exclusion going to $5 million ($10 million for a couple) in 2011 and 2012, college savers have less reason to fret about their 529-plan contributions exceeding the $13,000 gift-tax annual exclusion amount. Whereas large gifts, including 529 contributions, may have resulted in more estate tax under the old law, the $5 million exclusion may now eliminate that concern. For example, letï ¿ ½s say Aunt Ida has a $4 million estate and is thinking about contributing $100,000 to a 529 plan for her nephew. Even with the five-year election sheltering $65,000 of that contribution, she would be left with a $35,000 taxable gift to apply against her gift-tax lifetime exclusion. The new law "unifies" the exclusions for gifts and estates, which means the gift-tax lifetime exclusion jumps from $1 million to $5 million. Any use of your gift-tax lifetime exclusion reduces your estate-tax exclusion. Absent Congressional action, the estate-tax exclusion was headed down to $1 million in 2011, which meant Aunt Idaï ¿ ½s estate might have ended up owing more tax because of the $100,000 529 contribution. But with the $5 million estate-tax exclusion, Aunt Ida can use her gift-tax lifetime exclusion to shelter large 529 contributions without causing added estate-tax exposure, at least through 2012. Her estate is too small to trigger estate tax whether or not she makes the $100,000 contribution. Hence, less reason to limit her 529 contributions to the $13,000 gift-tax annual exclusion amount ($65,000 with the five-year election). In fact, Aunt Ida may wind up increasing her 529 contribution amount - by a lot. Anticipating the possibility of future roll-backs in the gift and estate allowances, Aunt Idaï ¿ ½s financial advisers are going to be telling her, along with their other wealthy clients, to "Gift, gift, gift!!" Many clients will resist giving away vast amounts of their fortunes, worried that the recipients of their largess will squander the money or become financially lazy. Or perhaps the wealthy individual wants to retain the flexibility to pursue philanthropy or find other uses for the money. A trust of some type might alleviate some of these concerns, but still the gifts to the trust must be irrevocable. Enter 529 plans, the only tool that allows an individual to make a completed gift that reduces their estate, yet retain complete control of the account. Account ownership includes not only the right to change beneficiaries but also the right to reclaim the funds at any time and for any purpose (subject to tax and 10%-penalty on the account growth if distributed for non-qualified purposes). So now Aunt Ida may think, why stop at $100,000? Why not contribute $300,000 into the 529 plan or whatever maximum amount the plan accepts? In fact, why not set up a few more accounts (in other states) and stuff them to the brim as well? Although Idaï ¿ ½s nephew surely wonï ¿ ½t need all that money for college, unused accounts can easily be passed down to pay for the college expenses of future family members. In the meantime, Ida has taken advantage of the opportunity to remove large amounts from her estate without really giving anything up. But wouldnï ¿ ½t Aunt Ida be abusing the tax laws if she pursued this strategy? Thatï ¿ ½s certainly an important question her tax advisers must consider, and one that I cannot answer. In all likelihood, Aunt Ida will never actually take the 529 money back for herself, and the accounts will ultimately be used tax- and penalty-free to educate current and future generations of family members. As long as that is how it plays out, whereï ¿ ½s the abuse? Posted December 21, 2010 What a coincidence. On the very same day--December 17, 2010--that I buy back my old company Savingforcollege.com from Bankrate, President Obama signs into law a massive tax and unemployment insurance bill that could end up putting billions of additional dollars into 529 plans. I could not have timed this any better had I tried. Itï ¿ ½s not that the bill creates any significant new advantages for 529 plans; most of the tax benefits associated with 529 plans had already been made permanent before this action. In fact, the new law more directly helps one of the competitors to 529 plans--the Coverdell education savings account--by staving off for two years the expiration of the K-12 provision and certain other improvements made to the ESA that were scheduled to expire at the end of 2010. It also extends the American Opportunity Tax Credit and the above-the-line tuition deduction through 2012. What intrigues me are the "temporary" changes to the gift and estate tax rules under the 2010 Tax Relief Act that will indirectly cause many wealthy parents and grandparents to think about upping their contributions to 529 plans over the next couple of years. Hereï ¿ ½s my thinking: With the estate-tax exclusion going to $5 million ($10 million for a couple) in 2011 and 2012, college savers have less reason to fret about their 529-plan contributions exceeding the $13,000 gift-tax annual exclusion amount. Whereas large gifts, including 529 contributions, may have resulted in more estate tax under the old law, the $5 million exclusion may now eliminate that concern. For example, letï ¿ ½s say Aunt Ida has a $4 million estate and is thinking about contributing $100,000 to a 529 plan for her nephew. Even with the five-year election sheltering $65,000 of that contribution, she would be left with a $35,000 taxable gift to apply against her gift-tax lifetime exclusion. The new law "unifies" the exclusions for gifts and estates, which means the gift-tax lifetime exclusion jumps from $1 million to $5 million. Any use of your gift-tax lifetime exclusion reduces your estate-tax exclusion. Absent Congressional action, the estate-tax exclusion was headed down to $1 million in 2011, which meant Aunt Idaï ¿ ½s estate might have ended up owing more tax because of the $100,000 529 contribution. But with the $5 million estate-tax exclusion, Aunt Ida can use her gift-tax lifetime exclusion to shelter large 529 contributions without causing added estate-tax exposure, at least through 2012. Her estate is too small to trigger estate tax whether or not she makes the $100,000 contribution. Hence, less reason to limit her 529 contributions to the $13,000 gift-tax annual exclusion amount ($65,000 with the five-year election). In fact, Aunt Ida may wind up increasing her 529 contribution amount - by a lot. Anticipating the possibility of future roll-backs in the gift and estate allowances, Aunt Idaï ¿ ½s financial advisers are going to be telling her, along with their other wealthy clients, to "Gift, gift, gift!!" Many clients will resist giving away vast amounts of their fortunes, worried that the recipients of their largess will squander the money or become financially lazy. Or perhaps the wealthy individual wants to retain the flexibility to pursue philanthropy or find other uses for the money. A trust of some type might alleviate some of these concerns, but still the gifts to the trust must be irrevocable. Enter 529 plans, the only tool that allows an individual to make a completed gift that reduces their estate, yet retain complete control of the account. Account ownership includes not only the right to change beneficiaries but also the right to reclaim the funds at any time and for any purpose (subject to tax and 10%-penalty on the account growth if distributed for non-qualified purposes). So now Aunt Ida may think, why stop at $100,000? Why not contribute $300,000 into the 529 plan or whatever maximum amount the plan accepts? In fact, why not set up a few more accounts (in other states) and stuff them to the brim as well? Although Idaï ¿ ½s nephew surely wonï ¿ ½t need all that money for college, unused accounts can easily be passed down to pay for the college expenses of future family members. In the meantime, Ida has taken advantage of the opportunity to remove large amounts from her estate without really giving anything up. But wouldnï ¿ ½t Aunt Ida be abusing the tax laws if she pursued this strategy? Thatï ¿ ½s certainly an important question her tax advisers must consider, and one that I cannot answer. In all likelihood, Aunt Ida will never actually take the 529 money back for herself, and the accounts will ultimately be used tax- and penalty-free to educate current and future generations of family members. As long as that is how it plays out, whereï ¿ ½s the abuse? Posted December 21, 2010

The Forgotten Female in the Works of Ernest Hemingway Essay

The Forgotten Female in the Works of Hemingway Ernest Hemingway has often been accused of misogyny in his treatment of female characters (and, perhaps, in his treatment of women in his own life). It is not fashionable these days to praise the work of Ernest Hemingway, says Frederick Busch. His women too often seem to be projections of male needfulness (1). Many of his stories are seen as prototypical bildungsroman stories--stories, usually, of young men coming of age. There are few, if any, stories in the canon of women coming of age, however, and Hemingway is not the first to suffer the wrath of feminist critics. But is this wrath justified? In his dissertation, Mark G. Newton reviews some of the†¦show more content†¦He argues that . . . Hemingway exhibits uncensored male perceptions of females perhaps as a partial explanation for why women occupy subjugated positions in American society (180). He concludes: . . . Hemingways chief concerns remain consistent. Within this world of selfishness represented in Hemingways canon, the lost, lamented for values include faith, hope, and security as well as fertility, creativity, love, peace, and human brotherhood for maintaining life. . . . Harrys last words, A man alone aint got no bloody fucking chance (THAHN 225), imply that togetherness may be the first step toward healing. Searching within the abyss of nada for meaning, people must first reform and embrace each other before they can reform and embrace the world. (188) These are the same echoes, the reaching out for other human contact, that we see in George Willard in Sherwood Andersons Winesburg, Ohio. However, in placing women in this almost Christ-like position--the saviors of mankind as it were--is Hemingway presenting women at all? Or is he presenting only male fantasies--the kind of stereotypical, mythic female figure that women have been condemned by our society to try to live up to? In Mothers and Others: Myths of the Female in theShow MoreRelatedAnalysis Of Hills Like White Elephants 1517 Words   |  7 PagesShivani Patel Hum 101-007 King, Paul 5 December 2015 Female Disempowerment in â€Å"Hills Like White Elephants† In the story â€Å"Hills Like White Elephants,† Ernest Hemingway uses his in-depth ability of foreshadowing to provide the reader with little information on the stories background or future events to come. At first glance, the discussion that takes place in story seems like a minor argument between a couple at a train station in Spain. However, upon deeper analysis, this piece takesRead MoreLecture on Short Story5432 Words   |  22 Pagesorigin, orally transmitted. Our ancestors told stories by the tribal fire, and later by the hearth, which were verbally passed down the generations. Oral transmission meant that stories had to be committed to memory in order to survive and not be forgotten; storytellers also had to be able to effectively convey the valuable life-lessons that their stories contained taking into account the limitations that listening imposes on our capacity to retain information. Storytellers had to be able to captivateRead MoreAN ANALYSIS PAPER ON ANTON CHEKHOV’S THE SEAGULL AND THE CHERRY ORCHARD12092 Words   |  49 PagesIdeologem of Loss 3.3.3 Relation of Russian and American Literature 4. Questions for Analysis 4.1 How do the literary works teach about morality? 4.2 What is the prevailing idea shown in the story? How can the readers relate to it? 4.3 If you were to provide an alternative ending to your chosen story, how would you end it? Why? 4.4 How do these literary works adhere to the 7 literary standards? Explain. AN ANALYSIS PAPER ONRead MoreLogical Reasoning189930 Words   |  760 Pagespart of the work under the following conditions: (1) Attribution You must attribute the work in the manner specified by the author, namely by citing his name, the book title, and the relevant page numbers (but not in any way that suggests that the book Logical Reasoning or its author endorse you or your use of the work). (2) Noncommercial You may not use this work for commercial purposes (for example, by inserting passages into a book that is sold to students). (3) No Derivative Works You may not

Comparing Of Mice And Men By John Steinbeck - 926 Words

â€Å"It doesn’t matter what we look like on the outside because we all share a similarity on the inside.† In this essay, I am going to compare and contrast Curly’s Wife and George. These two characters are from the book Of Mice Men by John Steinbeck. There are going to be three main topics that I am going to compare them in. Those three topics are Actions, Appearance, and Dreams. Actions being of how they acted towards someone. Appearance being how did they dress and how they were described in the book. Dreams being of what they dreams about becoming in the future. They both may be different from each other, but they link in a way. First off we are going to talk about their appearance. George’s appearance was a normal guy. He had a dark†¦show more content†¦While Curley’s wife’s dream was to become a movie star. George told Lennie multiple times that they were going to â€Å"live off the fatta of the land† and that they were going to go to be independent. He was tired of people telling him what to do and wanted to get up at his own time. Curley’s Wife’s dream was actually an opportunity. She did actually have a chance of becoming a movie star. She told Lennie that the guy said she belongs in the movies, and that he ll send a letter. She never received that letter. She believes her mother stole and hid it from her. In conclusion, as you can tell there are some opposites and some similarities of Curley’s wife and George. The biggest similarity was the dreams. They both wanted something that would turn out to be good for them. Curley’s wife wanted to become a movie star. Even though she doesn’t have the paper, maybe she would have found it somewhere. George wanted to leave at his own house with Lennie and Candy. He wanted a farm. He wanted to be an independent person. Even though they are both different people with different characteristics. They both wanted to become s omeone. This last paragraph is going to be quoting that gave me the support of my descriptions. My first quote the narrator stated â€Å" the first man was small and quick, dark of face, with restless eyes and sharp, strong features. Every part of him was defined: Small, strong hands, slender arms, a thin and bony nose.†(John Steinbeck, PageShow MoreRelatedComparing Of Mice And Men By John Steinbeck1605 Words   |  7 Pages Repeating Mistakes of Innocence in of Mice and Men Tragedy in life can be used to demonstrate the ultimate display of compassion and love, which truly demonstrates the qualities of men. In life people create attachments and bonds, craving companionship over isolated individualism. There is a endless cycle and chain of events that cause the annihilation of bounds which leads to tragedies bringing sadness. 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He enrolled in StanfordRead MoreGeorge And Lennie Relationship Analysis871 Words   |  4 PagesIn the novella Of Mice And Men by John Steinbeck, the relationship between Lennie Small and George Milton is complex. Lennie and George are two companions who look for work and brave the hardships of the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression together. Although Lennie and George are both grown men, their relationship resembles more of a child and a single parent, or a boy and his dog. Lennie is portrayed as animalistic and childish through his behavior and Steinbeck’s comparisons. This reveals the crucialRead MoreSteinbeck and His Techniques for Success in Of Mice and Men924 Words   |  4 Pagesa better understanding of Lennie and George, the two main characters Of Mice and Men. It also helps in keeping readers thinking on their feet and constantly questioning George and Lennie`s next move while in Salinas, California. 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GeorgeRead MoreHow Steinbeck Presents the Relationship Between George and Lennie in Particular at the Beginning and the End1045 Words   |  5 PagesHow Steinbeck presents the relationship between George and Lennie in particular at the beginning and the end The relationship between Lennie and George is very close throughout the book. Of Mice and Men is set in the 1930s depression years in America. This means that their relationship was under a lot of strain. It was unusual in those times to be able to sustain friendships because life was all about living for the moment after America s great depression. They are in a place called the SalinasRead Morecomparison2085 Words   |  9 Pages English III AP 30 October 2013 Of Mice and Men and The Scarlet Letter Of Mice and Men’s George and The Scarlet Letter’s Hester Prynne the main characters in these two novels. Both are misunderstood by the people around them. 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What Are The Types Of Research Philosophies - 1115 Words

According to Kumar (2010), a research methodology is a is an investigation that uses laid down scientific procedures in the formulation of problems, creation of hypothesis or identification of the laid down methods of answering research questions. 3.1 Research philosophy Whenever providing a research methodology, it is important to determine the exact philosophy that will be used in the research. There are two main types of research philosophies. These are analytical or descriptive philosophies. An analytical research philosophy is a type of research where the investigator is able to critically evaluate the variables and influence them to determine his research questions. The alternative is a descriptive philosophy where the investigator has no influence over the variables. It is sometimes known as an ex post factor type of research (Saunders, Lewis, Thornhill, 2009, p. 123). The dissertation uses the descriptive approach since there is no influence of the variables involved in the study. Another important philosophical consideration is where the dissertation will use a deductive or inductive philosophy in the answering of the research questions. Essentially, these are two opposing philosophies that need to be determined from the onset. A deductive research philosophy uses a top-down assessment of the research questions. The research questions are used to determine the data collected and prove some specific model or theory. On the other hand, the inductive researchShow MoreRelatedDesign of the Nose Cone for the 2014 Formula 1 Race Car1366 Words   |  6 Pages This essay will discuss about the research method on the designing and analysing the nose cone design of 2014 formula 1 race car. 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This was stated in his

Crash Film Co Directed And Produced By Paul Haggis

Crash is a 2004 ensemble drama film co-written, directed, and produced by Paul Haggis. The film focuses on stereotypical, racial and social tensions in Los Angeles, California. It connects stories based on coincidence, fortuitousness, and luck, as the lives of the characters crash against one another. The movie revolves around the feelings of prejudice and antipathy most people have against members of other groups, and observes the consequences of those feelings. The movie demonstrates the lives of different individuals from diverse socio-economic classes, who face life changing situations in between their conflicting prejudices and stereotypes. Their stories intermingle during a two days’ span in Los Angeles: a black detective estranged from his mother; his criminal younger brother who is a gang member; a Persian-immigrant father who is suspicious of others; a hard-working Hispanic family man, a locksmith; the white district attorney and his exasperated, spoiled wife; a racist police officer who offends an African American TV producer and harasses his wife; and a non-racist police officer. Instead of labeling characters as victims and offenders, victims of racism are often shown to be prejudiced themselves in different contexts and situations. The racist comments and biased actions are often shown to be caused by unawareness and fallacy instead of someone’s hateful nature. Racism, prejudice and stereotyping, as the major themes of the movie, Crash, dominate all theShow MoreRelatedFilm Crash Film Analysis1333 Words   |  6 PagesDisconnect: A Study of the Waters Family The Oscar Award winning film Crash, co-written, produced and directed by Paul Haggis, forces viewers to take a long hard look at their own biases while demonstrating the dynamisms of humanity as it takes us through an evening in the racially, financially and emotionally divided city of Los Angeles in the early 2000’s. Starring such actors as Don Cheadle, Sandra Bullock and Matt Dillon, this mind-warping film follows several disenchanted individuals as they are testedRead MoreMovie Analysis : Crash By Paul Haggis2104 Words   |  9 PagesCrash is a drama film produced and directed by Paul Haggis. The movie was made about 12 years ago and dealt with the racial and social tensions in Los Angeles. This story that evolved over 2 days involves several key characters – an African American detective who has a brother who is into crime; the Caucasian District Attorney (DA) and his overpowering paranoid wife, a Caucasian police officer who is downright racist and an African Ame rican movie director and his wife, who have to interact with the

Auditing and Materiality Analysis on K and S Corporation

Question: Discuss about the Auditing and Materiality Analysis on K and S Corporation. Answer: Introduction: Financial statements tends to assist investors in their decision making process through transparency in the preparations of balance sheet, income statement and other financial statements. The presence of principle agent relationship, whereby the agent that is the companys executives have a tendency towards behaving in a manner so as to further their own agendas and interests at the cost of the principles, the shareholders. External auditor has been provided to operate independently towards examining the financial statements and other relevant documents in order to identify any form of material misstatements. The ceiling upon the non-audit service fees accepted by the auditors followed by compulsory declaration by the external auditors regarding whether audit has been conducted with due independence reiterates the external auditors role. The credibility of a companys financial proceedings is gathered from the external auditors report. In terms of regulatory measures to be undertaken, the roles of external auditors are imperative as based upon the audited financial statements the evidences can be gathered about a corporate entity. The inputs from the external auditors report is relevant to the management, stakeholders and regulators of the organization, thereby the requirements towards standardization of auditory proceedings in order to mitigate audit risks is paramount. ASA 210, paragraph A23, A24, A25 and A26 states that the auditor, at the inception of audit engagement requires preparing a written financial document that may result towards declaration of the scope of financial report auditing. Further, the aforementioned articles requires the auditor to mention through writing the responsibility on the part of the auditor and companys management team, evaluating the framework utilized for the different sets of auditory proceedings. Such measures are undertaken to ensure a clear notion of the degree of reliabilit y in case of occurrence of material misstatements and misrepresentation of sensitive facts. Purpose of the report: The report is focused upon deriving an audit planning based upon the relevant sets of data regarding financial statements and corporate proceedings that has been provided in the K Ss Annual Report for the financial year 2015. This report seeks to assist in evaluating the different forms of audit risks that are prevalent in the organization through standardized auditory proceedings. Further, the report involves identifying five accounts that are imminently at risks towards being misstated in terms of the material data or information contained in them. The assessment of audit risks relating to the aforementioned five account are to be undertaken in order to gauge the degree of reliability upon the data of these accounts. Inferences and conclusion has been drawn concerning the different set of factors that has been assessed about auditory programs and evaluation of risks pertaining to material misstatements. Understanding the clients business: In order to initiate auditory proceedings, it is imperative to analyze KSs business operations, the quantum of mergers and acquisitions that has been undertaken by the company followed by the financial data pertaining to the different financial periods. Further, analysis of the effects of different sets of economic variables upon the companys operations, such as change in overall degree in demand owing to slow growth process is significant. It is in the sense that such analysis may result towards proper evolution of the companys current financial position and the probability of material misstatements in the company affairs. Entity Analysis: Kain Shelton (KS) is engaged primarily in logistics, freighting and transportation business since its incorporation as a public listed company in 1984 (Ksgroup.com.au. 2016). The company has undertaken several key acquisitions in transportation, haulage and carriers. During the past two decades the company has had made acquisitions of Stepnell Transport, Cochrane Transport, Truganina, Regal Transport and Pacific Transport amongst others (Ksgroup.com.au. 2016). These acquisitions show the level of diversification and market consolidation that the company has undergone. The varied forms of businesses such as oil carrier, manufacturer logistics, liquid and semi liquid carriers, transportations for mining products, warehousing has resulted towards presence of varied sets of assets and investment in KSs portfolio. The company has been found actively involved in financial fraud to the tune of over $7 million as ascertained by McGrathNicol (Ksgroup.com.au. 2016). Despite efforts on the part of the company management, towards recovering back the aforementioned amount the company has not been able to display any material proceedings regarding the claim. In case of the financials, the operating revenue has considerably highlighted a large quantum of increase over the past five years with an increase from $523.4 million in financial year 2011 to $699.2 million in 2015. Moreover, the operating revenue has displayed a considerable increase from $586.2 million to the present $699.2 million highlighting an increase of over 30% in the past 12 months . Comparatively, its operating cash flow has seen a marginal increase in from $47.3 million to $48.1 million showing an increase by just $0.8 million (Ksgroup.com.au. 2016). Economic and Industry Analysis: The slowdown in economic growth has affected the logistics and carrier sector largely owing to the fact that the consumer demand for products has fallen resulting in downsizing of production level in order to mitigate the risks regarding cost overruns. Moreover, territory wise the demand for logistics has subdued owing to the fact that the growth of the manufacturing sector has been hampered severely. The dynamism observed in the context of changing preference levels has resulted towards changing production patterns followed by changing levels of logistical requirements. In terms of road freights, the sector has highlighted slow growth while the B-Doubles, which KS owns by a significant number, has contributed the highest revenues derived from road freights. Figure 1: Road Freight during the last 50 years (Source: bitre.gov.au, 2016) However, it is also imperative to note that the B-Double carriers can operate on a limited sets of routes, thereby the prospects of high-income generation by the road transport has been subdued. Further, the advent of rapid growth in international logistical movements has resulted towards implementation of new sets of logistical contracts whereby the imported goods are delivered directly into the importers premises by the third party logistics (3PL) provider. This has diminished the practice of loading freights from the ports and terminals in order to deliver them to the customer/importers premises. Figure 2: Major Road Freight routes (Source: austlogistics.com.au, 2016) Moreover, companies with large sets of distributional requirements have been actively seeking to develop their own sets of logistics. For instance, the US based online retailing company Amazon has since its inception relied upon 3PL providers such as FedEx to deliver its goods until shifting to develop its own logistical systems. The advancement in terms of trucking and logistics through newer sets of energy efficient and technology driven carriers have the potential towards reducing the cost margins pertaining to logistics industry. In addition, launching of B-Triples carriers may result towards high levels of growth. KS has highlighted vast amount of investment in terms of acquiring numerous sets of transport agencies. Thereby, the company has an affinity towards customizing itself with the new sets of technologies and market penetration activities. The company has displayed optimum levels of adaptation to market scenarios through acquiring different routes and mediums of freight t ransport. Regulatory Analysis: The Australian Logistics Council (ALC) tends to regulate the different sets of policy formulation, policy implementations regarding transport and logistics business in Australias states (pc.gov.au, 2016). The different sets of operations and management of logistical industry are moderated by the council. The delay in terms of documentation on the part of local governments, metropolitan councils and resolving of issues pertaining to the companies engaged in logistical operations has been streamlined through the presence of ALC. The Council provides additional benefits to its corporate members through increasing the threshold levels of freights that can be transportation by a single carrier. Thereby, being a member of ALC results in aggravated levels of benefits derived by KS. The National Regulator on Heavy Vehicles (NHVR) tends to regulate the quantum of logistical activities conducted by the companies using heavy road carriers (pc.gov.au, 2016). Further, in terms of ownership of logistical assets, transport carriers and the different sets of heavy vehicles, the NHVR takes up annual evaluation of the degree of assets ownerships. Thereby, the company has additional sets of regulations pertaining to the assets held by it. The framing of policies during the period between the transportation of goods and the loading and unloading can result in limiting the revenue generating capability of logistics companies. The different sets of zoning issues regarding statewide operations can result towards potential adverse impacts upon the level of issues pertaining to different sets of data. However, recent reforms with the objective of improving the national infrastructure has created high growth and revenue generating opportunities for companies such as KS through de velopment of transport corridors, extending the intermodal connections and undertaking different sets of measures concerning the future expansions logistical businesses. Material Misstatements: Several factors are required to take into account in order to ascertain the accounts that are susceptible towards material misstatements. The primary determinants based on quantitative materiality tend to come from the accounts that contain transactions of significant financial figures (Bigus, 2012). Further, the quantum of transactions taking place through such materially significant accounts can also be taken into considerations in selecting the material accounts. Moreover, the changes in the composition or value of such account over the previous financial years can also be construed as a basis for determining materiality (Sharbatoghlie and Sepehri 2015). For instance, an unusual increase in the figures of an account and its subsequent repercussions on the profitability and performance measures can be regarded as a material change. In addition, the accounts that are deemed relevant for computation of key financial ratios such as solvency, efficiency, liquidity and profitability can be considered as accounts containing risks of material misstatements. In the current report, the selection of accounts with material degree of risks tends to be formed after taking consideration the industry dynamics, the rate of growth and the degree of increase in a particular figure over last year. The five accounts with high risks of material misstatements are: Revenue Account Depreciation and Amortization Account Employee Expense Account Fleet Expense Account Cash A/C and Marketable Securities A/C Calculation pertaining to planning materiality: ASA 320 states the framework pertaining to planning materiality in terms of financial statements (auasb.gov.au, 2016). The net profit after tax is prescribed to have a percentage of 5% materiality benchmark in usual circumstances. Moreover, the benchmark upon revenue figures usually is approximately 1%. Paragraph 10 of ASA 320 states the fact that the benchmarks should be stated for the financial statements as a whole. Further, paragraph 11 and 12 of ASA 320 states the fact that the auditor can review the materiality benchmark from time to time as assess whether there arises any requirement pertaining to changing the benchmark level (auasb.gov.au, 2016). The degree of past involvement of the company in fraudulent activities followed by unusual degree of changes in the levels of revenue figures, depreciation figures coupled with cash, fleet and employee expenses provides for situation to reduce the benchmark. Thereby, the benchmark upon the revenue levels can be ascertained to be at 3%. The acceptable levels of misstatements can be ascertained at a level of 40 percent of the 3 % benchmark level. Thereby, the acceptable set of misstatements comes at 1.2 % of revenue (0.40 * 3%). The above benchmarking has been undertaken after taking account the degree of sensitivity of the shareholders and other stakeholders towards presence of material misstatements in KSs financial figures. The aforementioned degree of overall risks of material misstatements has been ascertained after taking into account the different levels of data. Assessment of the five accounts: ASA 450 tends to highlight the degree of examinations conducted upon the financial statements of the entity towards locating or ascertaining the degree of material misstatements (auasb.gov.au, 2016). The different sets of data pertaining to the different degree of assessment relating to the aforementioned five accounts can have adverse repercussions pertaining to the decision making of the investor s Preparation of Audit Documentation under ASA 230 shows the evidence as regards to the conclusion or inferences draw from the audit clients financial statements (auasb.gov.au, 2016). The revenue or operating revenue account can have a high degree of increase owing to the inclusion of previous years receivables. The cost of goods sold in the account tends to display the fact that the operating and input costs have declined over the past financial period from the levels of $63,545 to $56,936. Therefore, it can be inferred from the above figure that the COGS has declined while the revenue margins has increased over 30% as compared to previous financial periods. Thereby the degree of data pertaining to the different sets of revenue and COGS highlights anomaly in the revenue figures. The employee expenses has showcased an increase from $185,218 in the financial period of 2014 to $219,172. An increase of over 18% in the employee expenses raised queries regarding significant amount of development in the degree of employee benefits and facilitating the degree of benefits towards the level of employee salaries, bursaries and bonus income. The annual report along with the website does not declare any material levels of initiatives in terms of improvement in employee strength or any kind of significant employee based programs. Further, the expenses could arise from a high degree of nonlinear and unaccountable bonuses that are linked with high levels of revenues in order to mitigate the high jump in the revenue figures. The depreciation and amortization expenses have displayed high levels of increase by over 45% from figures pertaining to financial year 2014. The depreciation expenses have highlighted such a high level of increase without a substantial increase in the asset levels of the organization. The degree of data that tends to be showcased by the amortization expenses displays a deliberate measure on the part of the company to undervalue its profitability. The cash and cash equivalent account has displayed a drop in its levels over the past financial period. This can be attributed to high degree of payments made by the company or high quantum of credit sales undertaken by the company. However, the degree of increase in the debtors and receivable levels tends to highlight the fact that the data pertaining to the companys cash levels may be resulted from misappropriation, manipulation or the degree of data regarding cash and quick assets. Moreover, it can also be observed that the figure pertaining to the creditors highlights the fact that the company has paid off its creditors substantially. Thereby, with a large degree of increase in the levels of revenues coupled with lowering of cash levels raises queries regarding financial management policies undertaken by the company. The lack of substantial increase in the levels of debtors and no material changes in the levels of creditors in terms of the level of financial data suggests that th ere is a high probability in terms of material misstatements. Further, the fleet expenses have shown a high degree of increase in value as compared to previous periods. This can be attributed from the fact that the operations of the company has increased exponentially. However, the increase in the levels of assets held by the company is insignificant compared to the rise in revenue levels, amortization and depreciations costs resulting in an inference that such as high quantum of increase in the fleet expenses is not rational in financial terms. Conclusion: The assessment pertaining to KS results displayed that the company has experience high revenue margins over the past financial period. The company is engaged in the logistics and transportation business and has operations in Australia and New Zealand. For the past 25 years, the company has highlighted large degree of acquisition in terms of transport agencies, logistics and road freight carriers. However, the company has been founded to be indulgent towards fraudulent activities resulting in losses by the margins of $7 million. The degree of data pertaining to the financial statements published in the annual report and the official website has been evaluated in order to gauge the current financial position if the company. The current levels of data relating to the transportation and logistics business has been assessed in terms of present opportunities and future prospects. The levels of data pertaining to economy and regulatory authorities has showcased the fact that the company has been able modify its levels of operations and has undergone diversifying tactics in order to provide a high degree of buffer to adverse market conditions. Analysis of the financial statement has been in order to highlight the fact that the company has several sets of unusual increases in terms of revenue levels, cash and marketable securities owned by the company followed by the degree of depreciation and amortization pertaining to the assets held by the company. The assessment made in light of ASA standards has resulted towards evaluation of tendency of the company towards showing misrepresented financial statements. References and Bibliography: Arnold, D.F. and Bernardi, R.A., 2013. An examination of British, Irish, and US partners' responses to ethical dilemmas.Arnold, DF Bernardi, RA:(1997). An Examination of British, Irish, and US Partners' Responses to Ethical Dilemmas, Research in Accounting Regulation,11, pp.149-172. auasb.gov.au, (2016). [online] Available at: https://www.auasb.gov.au/admin/file/content102/c3/Jun11_Compiled_ASA_320.pdf [Accessed 30 Sep. 2016]. austlogistics.com.au, (2016). [online] Available at: https://austlogistics.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Economic-Significance-of-the-Australian-Logistics-Indsutry-FINAL.pdf [Accessed 30 Sep. 2016]. Barton, H. and Bruder, N., 2014.A guide to local environmental auditing. Routledge. Bell, T.B. and Griffin, J.B., 2012. Commentary on auditing high-uncertainty fair value estimates.Auditing: A Journal of Practice Theory,31(1), pp.147-155. Bell, T.B. and Griffin, J.B., 2012. Commentary on auditing high-uncertainty fair value estimates.Auditing: A Journal of Practice Theory,31(1), pp.147-155. Bigus, J., 2012. Vague auditing standards and ambiguity aversion.Auditing: A Journal of Practice Theory,31(3), pp.23-45. bitre.gov.au, (2016). [online] Available at: https://bitre.gov.au/publications/2016/files/is_079.pdf [Accessed 30 Sep. 2016]. Christensen, B.E., Glover, S.M. and Wood, D.A., 2013. Extreme estimation uncertainty and audit assurance.Current Issues in Auditing,7(1), pp.P36-P42. DeFond, M. and Zhang, J., 2014. A review of archival auditing research.Journal of Accounting and Economics,58(2), pp.275-326. Furnham, A. and Gunter, B., 2015.Corporate Assessment (Routledge Revivals): Auditing a Company's Personality. Routledge. Hay, D., Knechel, W.R. and Willekens, M., 2014.The Routledge Companion to Auditing. Routledge. Hope, O.K., Langli, J.C. and Thomas, W.B., 2012. Agency conflicts and auditing in private firms.Accounting, Organizations and Society,37(7), pp.500-517. Kellenberg, D. and Levinson, A., 2016.Misreporting Trade: Tariff Evasion, Corruption, and Auditing Standards(No. 22593). National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc. Knechel, W.R., 2013. Do auditing standards matter?.Current Issues in Auditing,7(2), pp.A1-A16. Koretz, D., 2014.Auditing for score inflation using self-monitoring assessments: Findings from three pilot studies(Doctoral dissertation, Harvard College). Ksgroup.com.au. (2016). - KS Corporation Limited. [online] Available at: https://www.ksgroup.com.au/ [Accessed 30 Sep. 2016]. Louwers, T.J., Ramsay, R.J., Sinason, D.H., Strawser, J.R. and Thibodeau, J.C., 2013.Auditing and assurance services. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill/Irwin. pc.gov.au, (2016). [online] Available at: https://www.pc.gov.au/inquiries/completed/regulation-benchmarking-local-government/submissions/sub015.pdf [Accessed 30 Sep. 2016]. Sharbatoghlie, A. and Sepehri, M., 2015. An Integrated Continuous Auditing Project Management Model. In4th International Project Management Conference. Titera, W.R., 2013. Updating audit standard-Enabling audit data analysis. Journal of information systems,27(1), pp.325-331. Yang, K. and Jia, X., 2013. An efficient and secure dynamic auditing protocol for data storage in cloud computing.IEEE Transactions on Parallel and Distributed Systems,24(9), pp.1717-1726. Ye, M. and Simunic, D.A., 2013. The economics of setting auditing standards.Contemporary Accounting Research,30(3), pp.1191-1215. Yoon, K., Hoogduin, L. and Zhang, L., 2015. Big Data as complementary audit evidence.Accounting Horizons,29(2), pp.431-438. Zadek, S., Evans, R. and Pruzan, P., 2013.Building corporate accountability: Emerging practice in social and ethical accounting and auditing. Routledge.

Patient Dignity and Effects free essay sample

The fast-paced focus and limited time in emergency department make it difficult to attend to the holistic needs of the patient. Physical barriers of the equipment connected to the patient hinder the humanistic view of the patient and the necessary communication for ensuring dignified interactions. The dignity of patients is a major concern in healthcare, and every human being has the right to be treated with respect and dignity. More appreciation and better understanding of dignity is needed among nurses to improve the quality of care. According to Neno (2006), nurses need to continuously improve their skills and competencies to ensure that people are treated with dignity. Patients present to the hospital already vulnerable due to illness, and place their lives in the hands of healthcare professionals. On top of compromised health, hospitalization often creates feelings of loss of control, helplessness, loss of worth, and loss of autonomy. Nurses need to provide quality care, maintaining patients’ dignity, and promoting autonomy and self-worth by showing understanding and respect. Often, patients present confused or unresponsive, not comprehending the world around them. It would seem that such person does not have any dignity. Dignity has to be maintained in the care provided regardless of patient’s knowing or understanding of the place and moment in time. According to the Code of Ethics for Nurses: â€Å"The worth of the person is not affected by disease, disability, functional status, or proximity to death† (2001, p. 7). Purpose â€Å"Dignity means different things to different people† (Gallagher, 2004). Walsh (2002) noted that the concept of dignity is frequently cited in nursing literature, but only few studies attempt to define it. The myriad of available definitions and explanations does not benefit nursing and patient care in understanding dignity, and it is still a concept that evokes many thoughts. Concept analysis is a process to create a meaning of abstract concepts such as dignity. This paper uses concept analysis method of Walker and Avant (1995) to clarify the components of the dignity concept as it applies to nursing and patient care, so it can be better understood and utilized. Literature Definition Although nursing schools emphasize nurses’ obligation to promote and maintain patients’ dignity, no definitions or instructions are provided on how to promote such care or assess its outcomes. The dictionary definition of dignity states: â€Å"bearing, conduct, or speech indicative of self-respect or appreciation of the formality or gravity of an occasion or situation, nobility or elevation of character; worthiness, elevated rank, office, station† and â€Å"the quality or state of being worthy, honored, or esteemed† (Dictionary. om Unabridged, n. d. ). Another dictionary adds: â€Å"a sense of pride in oneself† (Compact Oxford English Dictionary, n. d. ). Not all of these descriptions of dignity apply to healthcare. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing defined dignity as â€Å"respect for the inherent worth and uniqueness of individuals and populations† (as cited by Jacelon Henneman, 2004). Gallagher (2004) s tated that dignity is equal for all human beings, but Haddock (1996) informed that: â€Å"humans are also unique, and have ‘personal’ dignity which only has personal meaning†. The author noted that dignity is connected to the self concept and self-esteem. She explained that self-esteem is the value we attach to ourselves as a result of our success in achieving goals, and it is also determined by the reaction of others. Further, it is noted that a person’s dignity is a reflection of personal choices, values, ideals, conduct, and lifestyle (Haddock, 1996). Similarly, Mairis (1994) suggested that dignity relates to one’s cognitive skills, feeling comfortable with one-self, and having control over one’s surroundings, behavior, and treatment by others. On the other hand, not all patients are capable of autonomous thinking and choice. Gallagher (2004) argued that those incompetent of making any decisions deserve to be treated with the same respect and dignity as every one else. People have dignity regardless of their level of competence, consciousness, autonomy, or capability of communicating. The author informed that dignity is equal for all, as it is a basic moral right that all people are worthy of from the moment of birth. Moreover, dignity is concerned with the acknowledgement of humanity in people, alive or dead. Gallagher (2004) stated that dignity can apply to a range of situations from patient’s autonomy and treatment choice, through older confused, incapable of decision making patients, to people who are dying, and the dignity of the bodies of those who died. Walsh (2002) also acknowledged that there is dignity in death, and dead people have to be treated with dignity. Similarly, Haddock (1996) noted that dignity can be restored to the deceased by staying with the body, and tidying the room to receive grieving relatives. Another study stated that humanity and dignity are acknowledged simply by spending time and being present with patients (Perry, 2005). Furthermore, Chochinov (as cited by Jacelon, Connelly, Brown, Proulx, and Vo, 2004) informed that in addition to pride, self-respect, quality of life, well being, hope and self-esteem, which all overlap with dignity, there is a distinctive feature in dignity an external component termed behavioral dignity. It specifies behavior that a person would engage in if one was dignified, and also how others could enhance a person’s dignity. It can be used to judge a patient’s behavior, as well as the actions taken by a nurse that affect dignity (Jacelon, Connelly, Brown, Proulx, and Vo, 2004). The literature made distinctions between having dignity, being treated with dignity, and giving dignity to others (Fenton Mitchell, 2002). Individual’s dignity is affected by the treatment received from others, and it is reflected when the nurse values and respects the patient. According to Haddock (1996), in order to maintain or promote patient’s dignity, the nurse has to first possess dignity, and treat patients as worthy and important when they are most vulnerable. Listening, caring, and attending to others’ needs all portray the giving of dignity. Critical Attributes Critical attributes are the defining characteristics of the concept, that allow to decide which phenomena are examples of the concept. Possessing dignity It is a characteristic of: being human, having positive self-esteem, feeling worthy, belief in oneself, self-respect, self-preservation, feeling that one’s beliefs, values, and identity are respected by others. Maintenance and promotion of patients’ dignity Valuing others alive or dead, appreciating similarities and differences in others, respecting patient’s identity and preferences, ensuring patient’s privacy, providing information, being attentive to patient’s needs. Empirical Referents The concept of dignity is an abstract concept difficult to understand. Its nature involves relations between people, therefore no single measure would identify if dignity is present (Haddock, 1996). Gallagher (2004) mentioned that dignity can only be measured by knowing what this term means to the patient. Measurement can be obtained from statements and reports of patient’s perspective. To ascertain if one possesses dignity, self-esteem could be measured using a scale, or patient satisfaction questionnaires could provide more insight. Also, as stated by Coventry (2006), observations of nurse/patient interactions and their behaviors could suggest the presence or absence of dignity. Nurse’s care with dignity can be observed for attentiveness, awareness, engagement, and an active defense of the patient. Mairis (1994) noted that dignity is difficult to measure, but common situations and patient’s behavior or report of feelings also give insight. She suggested that physiological changes such as temperature could be possible measurements/empirical referents of loss of dignity. Her example, blushing a symptom of embarrassment, causes skin temp to increase, indicating possible loss of dignity. Model Case Mr. T. , a 90 year old man presented to emergency department (ED) accompanied by his wife. He reported feeling progressively weaker over the last several days, complained of dark/black diarrhea, and vomiting coffee ground-like substance. Mr. T. appeared pale, weak, could hardly talk, and seemed very exhausted. The nurse introduced herself to the couple upon entering the room, listened to the story, and explained each step of her assessment as she performed it. Then, she informed the couple about the tests and procedures that could identify the cause of his symptoms, and about measures to relieve them. The couple verbalized understanding, and asked questions, which were clearly answered by the nurse. During Mr. T. ’s stay in ED, the nurse frequently checked on him, making sure he’s comfortable, pain free, and without further compromise to his health. During the day the nurse had to draw Mr. T. ’s blood, insert an NG tube, administer blood transfusion, and several medications to ease the pain and nausea. She clearly informed the patient before each procedure making sure he understands them, respected the patient’s privacy every time he had to use the bedpan for his diarrhea, and listened to all the complaints and worries of the couple. Before his transfer to ICU, Mr. T. thanked the nurse for the excellent care he received, and stated that he felt ‘like a king’. The model case presents all critical attributes. The nurse promoted the dignity of the patient by being present, giving information, privacy, and by attentive listening, compassion, and sensitivity to let the patient and his wife know that she saw him as more than a disease, and truly cared. This allowed Mr. T. to feel unique and important. He felt respected, had control over the situation although he was so weak, and was able to maintain his worth and self-esteem. Similarly, the nurse was sensitive to the patient’s vulnerability, and although the patient’s condition was critical and required rapid interventions, she managed to maintain his dignity. Contrary Case Mrs. B. , an 85 year old lady presented to emergency department (ED) from her nursing home, brought in by an ambulance. She was confused and febrile, unable to walk or stand, but able to verbalize feelings of pain or discomfort. Immediately on her arrival to ED, two nurses and two patient care technicians (PCT) started undressing her. When Mrs. B. was completely naked, one of the nurses started the assessment listening to her lungs, and pressing on her abdomen, while the other nurse yelled: â€Å"Gertrude! Do you know where you are!? Then, one of the PCTs covered the patient with a hospital gown, started to connect cardiac monitor electrodes on her, while the other one applied the blood pressure cuff. At the same time one of the nurses kept tightening a tourniquet on the other arm of Mrs. B. , repeatedly poking her trying to insert an IV catheter. As if this wasn’t enough, the other nurse spread the patient’s legs apart, and attempted to insert a Foley ca theter in her bladder. During all these procedures Mrs. B. begged: â€Å"stop! ouch! I want to go home! Take me home! † The nurse’s response was: â€Å"just stay still! repeatedly. Among themselves, the staff were laughing and discussing the weekend events of their private lives. Then, ignoring the patient’s cries, they turned Mrs. B. on one side, and inserted a thermometer into her rectum, while commenting on the bed sore on her sacrum: â€Å"oh, this is disgusting, look at her back†¦Ã¢â‚¬  In the contrary case none of the critical attributes of dignity are present. The patient’s dignity was compromised not only by her severely debilitated state, but also by the staff’s failure to recognize and respect her as a unique human being. Mrs. B. was treated like an object, dependent on others, or as if she was absent. She experienced physical invasion, inadequate communication, loss of control, and was treated in a manner that did not make her feel or look as an important human being, of equal value to others. Antecedents Antecedents are events that must occur before the concept (Walker Avant, 1995). (Jacelon, Connelly, Brown, Proulx, Vo, 2004) stated that dignity is a learned behavior, and learning about dignity is an antecedent to behaving with dignity. Attitudes, values and beliefs which are learned throughout life, as well as life experiences develop one’s dignity (Mairis, 1994). To become vulnerable to losing dignity patient must be in a position to need care; have compromised health, become disabled, powerless, and dependent on health care professionals to restore his or her health. Also, being removed from one’s familiar environment, routines, and roles when entering hospital may predispose individual’s loss of control and identity, which lead to loss of dignity. Furthermore, to provide dignified care nurses must develop own integrity and dignity, responsibility, accountability, and obligations to the patients. Lack of time, the pressure of work, and nurse’s lack of interpersonal skills result in loss of dignified care. Consequences Consequences are those events that occur as a result of the concept (Walker Avant, 1995). A positive consequence of the presence of dignity is secured patient’s autonomy, and his or her feelings of value, worth, pride, and confidence. As a result, there is a positive effect on patient’s behavior, health, compliance, and self-esteem. On the other hand, losing dignity may continue to generate powerful emotions for a long time (Gallagher, 2004). When dignity is lost patients feel distressed, embarrassed, shameful, humiliated, foolish, angry, anxious, and degraded (Mairis, 1994). The result of lack of dignity can also be demonstrated by loss of self-control, the patient may become rude, mean, belligerent, and complaining. Moreover, a positive consequence of dignified care for the nurse is enhanced own dignity, a therapeutic relationship with the patient, and job satisfaction. When patient’s dignity is compromised, the nurse may experience the same emotions as the patient: anger, anxiety, and stress. Research for Practice Dignity has been a concept in nursing practice that is often overlooked by nurses. It is often a challenge to promote patient’s dignity while performing critical care interventions in emergency department. Among the most vulnerable to loss of dignity are older people. They are often perceived as having little worth, and being a drain on others. The negative attitudes towards this population result in neglect of their needs. Nurses should consistently ask the questions: â€Å"How can I make this patient feel better about being here? What are his or her wishes and values? Does this patient have control over the situation? Is this patient satisfied with the care received? † Also, patients with mental status changes, in a coma, or disabled may not seem to behave with dignity, but through compassionate care, recognizing living and experiencing human being, the nurse can enhance their dignity. Every patient’s needs and feelings should be considered. Nurses need to recognize that whatever the patient’s behavior, help and support from the nurse will satisfy and promote dignity of every patient, which in return will increase job satisfaction of the nurse. Further research should focus on strategies to minimize the occurrences of loss of dignity during critical care interventions. One of the studies reported that nurses were most likely to stay in the profession if they perceived they provided care that was of an acceptable quality, and were usually satisfied with their careers (Perry, 2005). Conclusion The ambiguity of the human dignity concept makes it difficult to construct an exhaustive definition. This paper concentrated on understanding patient’s dignity from the nurse’s perspective, and the effects of nursing care on its maintenance. Dignity arises in every nurse-patient encounter and there are many opportunities for dignity promotion. It is maintained depending on how the nurse acts toward the patient. The smallest actions can make a huge difference in the way a person feels. Nurses need to remember the person inside the patient (Haddock, 1996), give more thought to how they assess and communicate with the patient, and work in partnership with him or her. Authoritative nurses performing care they believe is best without discussing it with the patient do not provide dignified care. Patients have the right to refuse the care provided to them and nurses have to respect that. This can be a difficult experience for the nurse, especially when the patient’s decisions are not what the nurse would consider to be the best choice. Nurse’s interactions with the patient have a tremendous effect on the patient’s dignity, therefore they need to be constantly aware of patients’ needs, consider their emotions, give privacy, information, and compassionate care. Haddock (1996) stated that: â€Å"the most powerful tool a nurse possesses to maintain and promote dignity is herself/himself†. References Code of ethics for nurses with interpretive statements. (2001). Washington, DC: American Nurses Association. Compact Oxford English dictionary. (n. d. ). Retrieved October 11, 2006, from: http://www. askoxford. om/concise_oed/dignity? view=uk Coventry, M. L. (2006, May). Care with dignity: a concept analysis. Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 32(5), 42-8. Retrieved October 12, 2006, from CINAHL database. Dictionary. com Unabridged (v 1. 0. 1). (n. d. ). Retrieved October 11, 2006, from Dictionary. com website: http://dictionary. reference. com/browse/dignity Fenton, E. , Mitchell, T. (2002, June ). Growing old with dignity: a concept analysis. Nursing Older People, 14(4). Retrieved October 11, 2006, from CINAHL database. Gallagher, A. (2004, November). Dignity and respect for ignity – two key health professional values: implications for nursing practice. Nursing Ethics, 11(6), 587-99. Retrieved October 12, 2006, from CINAHL database. Haddock, J. (1996, November). Towards further clarification of the concept â€Å"dignity†. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 24(5), 924-31. Retrieved October 11, 2006, from OVID MEDLINE database. Jacelon, C. S. , Connelly, T. W. , Brown, R. , Proulx, K. , Vo, T. (2004, October). A concept analysis of dignity for older adults. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 48(1), 76-83. Retrieved October 12, 2006, from CINAHL database. Jacelon, C. S. , Henneman, E. A. 2004, August). Profiles in dignity: perspectives on nursing and critically ill older adults. Critical Care Nurse, 24(4), 30-2, 33-5. Retrieved October 11, 2006, from http://www. findarticle s. com/p/articles/mi_m0NUC/is_4_24/ai_n6172397 Mairis, E. D. (1994, May). Concept clarification in professional practice – dignity. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 19(5), 947-53. Rertieved October 12, 2006, from CINAHL database. Neno, R. (2006, July). Dignifying dignity. Nursing Older People, 18(6), 6-7. Retrieved October 11, 2006, from OVID MEDLINE database. Nordenfelt, L. (2005, June). The four notions of dignity. Dignity and Older Europeans Consortium; Quality in Ageing, 6(1), 17-21. Retrieved October 12, 2006, from CINAHL database. Perry, B. (2005, October). Core nursing values brought to life through stories. 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