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Introduction: Nursing, being a humanistic profession, includes the promotion of health, the prevention of disease and the holistic care of patients, including those with disabilities and the terminally ill. Nursing education and training in Greece conforms to EU standards, thus providing mutual recognition of qualifications according to European Community directives. Moreover, nursing in Iran is heavily associated with the underlying socio-cultural forces that have affected the country, society and the profession per se in recent decades. Aim: The purpose of this self-reflective commentary is to narrate and describe nursing in two dissimilar countries and health care systems, i.e. Greece and Iran. Methods: This report was based on the lived experiences of an Erasmus+ student who has spent time studying and training as a nurse in both Iran and Greece. The self-narratives were complemented by a comprehensive computer-based search, which was conducted in various databases which revealed 16 relevant articles. Results: a number of similarities and differences are portrayed in this comparative narrative which shows that despite the vast geographical and geopolitical contrasts, nursing in both countries have made a determined and conscious effort to upgrade and improve standards of nursing education and practice. Discussion: Overall, there are distinct similarities and differences between Iranian and Greek nursing in terms of both education and practice. As expected, there are noticeable differences in the priorities in the nursing education of the two countries but moving this into universities has raised the standards of nursing students' clinical and theoretical preparation. Conclusions: Overall political and public policies play a pivotal role in shaping the image of nursing in both societies. Yet, the authors believe increasing motivation among Greek and Iranian nurses, and promoting the socio-cultural climate and the welfare of the profession would result in higher levels of quality of care as well as greater patient satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hip fracture in the elderly population is a common global public health problem which may lead to loss of functionality and autonomy in daily life activities. Early mobilization and early onset of walking has been reported to significantly reduce post-operative complications and increase autonomy level. However, the literature does not identify specifically which factors are associated with the reduction of mobility and the recovery of autonomy of patients post-operatively. Objective: The main aim of this study is to identify key factors associated with speedy recovery and functional autonomy of the elderly following hip fractures after 6 weeks in a rehabilitation center. Methodology: This was prospective cohort study. 102 patients over the age of 65 with hip fractures (intertrochanteric or hypocephalic) were recruited at the 'HARMONIA' rehabilitation center, Thessaloniki, Northern Greece. The validified Greek version of Functional Independence Measurement (FIM) tool was used as measurement tool to assess the factors contributing to the recovery of functional autonomy.in its validified Greek version. Results: The average overall scores of functional independence after 6 weeks of hospitalization at the rehabilitation center were 77.26 with an average age of 81.25 years. The lowest averages of the Functional Independence Measurement (FIM) were observed in the motor domain i.e. in bathing (self-care) with an average FIM of 3.61, lower body clothing of 3.7, bladder control of 3.7, bath (mobility) of 3.89 and stairs of 3.8. With regards to the cognitive domain, problem solving scored 4.09 and social interaction 4.3. Conclusions: The risk factors associated with the poor recovery in functional autonomy of the elderly with hip fractures are older age and low levels of motor and cognitive ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The meaning of euthanasia comes from Greek literature which means ‘good death’ and has deep historical roots. Euthanasia is also known as mercy killing or physician assisted suicide. Aim: To review systematically and compare literature in order to unfold differences and similarities between Turkey and Greece on health care policies, legislation, professional and societal views on euthanasia. Methods: Articles accessed from MEDLINE/PubMed and IATROTEK and some ‘grey literature’ were used as the backbone of this critical account. Results: Euthanasia in Greece: According to Greek law, euthanasia is unlawful. Those who intentionally decide to kill a patient with an incurable disease, on mercy grounds, would be facing punishment. The Christian majority in Greece believes that killing someone intentionally even if terminally-ill, is unethical and legally wrong, even the patient wants to end his/her life. Euthanasia in Turkey: In contemporary Turkey, religion is still one of the most important factors determining society's attitude towards euthanasia despite the sects and tariqas following different manner or creeds in Islam. Thus, human life is regarded as sacred and terminating it, even if requested by the patient or guardian, due to severe deformity or hopelessness of the condition is wrong. Discussion: In both the Muslim faith and Christianity, God creates life and the person has a duty to preserve his/her life. This is also the obligation of health care professionals who are expected to do everything in their power to sustain the patient's life. Also as suicide is considered as a sin in both religions, the concept of assisted euthanasia is thought to be equal to suicide. Due to the above reasons, traditional Christian and Muslim attitudes oppose euthanasia. Conclusions: Both Turkey and Greece do not allow euthanasia, yet it is practiced covertly by some health care personnel. Yet, despite different religions the attitudes towards euthanasia in Greece and Turkey are similar thus, the two neighbours could learn from each other by initiating open discussions on the management of this highly sensitive topic in order to so that covert euthanasia is substituted by clear professional guidelines and much needed updated legislation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]