[Quality of working life of teachers of students with exceptional school]

Introduction: Considering quality of working life is a way for preserving employees for better performance. In this regards, quality of working life of teachers of student exceptional school is an important fact to study. The aim of this study was to explore quality of working life of teachers of students exceptional school

Methods: This study was conducted by qualitative method and content analysis methods through considering purposive sampling, twelve teachers of student's exceptional school, working between2012-2013, with four years' experience were participated. Through semi-structured interviews, the data were collected and analyzed

Results: In this study, the quality of work life of teacher of students exceptional school were classified into the seven main themes: communication in work place, interaction with students, promotion and job involvement, job satisfaction, job barriers, policy and job position, and job performance

Conclusion: Quality of work life of teachers of student's exceptional school was not in a satisfactory level. Consequently, policymakers should provide new strategy to increase quality of work life of teachers in these schools. Furthermore, findings of this study can provide and facilitate more future studies in this field

[Psychometric properties of illness related worries questionnaire [IRWQ] in heart failure patients]

Introduction: Heart failure patients believe that physical and psychological symptoms and worries about life and death are characteristics of disease in their life and in this context, there is no specific and culturally appropriate tool to measure their illness related worries. This study was conducted for development and psychometric properties evaluation of Illness Related Worries Questionnaire [IRWQ] in heart failure patients

Methods: In this quantitative-qualitative study, based on the findings obtained from interviews with 22 heart failure patients from patients of Hazrat e Rasool e Akram, Imam Hossein and Shariati Hospitals in Tehran in 2013, literature, and the designed questionnaires about illness related worries, primary items associated illness related worries in heart failure patients, were developed. After measuring face validity and content validity, the construct validity and reliability of the questionnaire was assessed on 130 patients with heart failure. The data were analyzed using SPSS software, version 19

Results: With face validity and content validity questionnaire was created with 23 items and four factors [9 items on first factor, 8 items on second factor, 4 items on third factor and 2 items on fourth factor]. These dimensions were labeled: "cognitive independence" and "functional independence" as a subset of "independence" and "worry about future of disease" and "psycho-physical worry" as a subset of "worries related to symptoms". Reliability of illness related worries questionnaire was calculated 0.90 by using Cronbach's Alpha coefficient and 0.89 by using split-half method

Conclusion: Result of this study showed that illness related worries questionnaire is adequate, valid and reliable. Thus, using this questionnaire can be useful in doing further researches related to worries in different patients

[Related Factors to use computer based on "Technology Acceptance Model"]

Introduction: Use of computer has been increased in recent years. So understanding the related factors to use computers is important. The aim of this study was to determine related factors to use computer based on "Technology Acceptance Model".

Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive-correlational study which 100 staff membersof Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences were selected through convenient sampling method. Data were gathered using demographic questionnaire and "Technology Acceptance Model Scale" with 43 items. Content and face validity of the questionnaire and the reliability of the instruments were determined by internal consistency and test-retest methods, respectively.

Findings: There were a direct and positive correlation between perceived usefulness[Beta = 0.309], perceived ease of computer [Beta = 0.309], with computer attitude, and also computer attitude with intention to use computer [Beta = 0.503].

Conclusion: There is a direct and positive correlation between usefulness and ease of use of computer with computer attitude and ultimately intention to use computer. Attention to increase computer attitude for using computer is suggested.

[Assessment of some factors related to leave in nurses and their demographic characters in educational hospitals of Shahid Beheshti university of medical sciences]

Nurses are the largest group of health care professionals in health systems. Nurse's shortage and turnover lead to big problems in care of patients, quality of care and treatment costs. The aim of this study was to determine assessment of some factors related to leave in nurses and their demographic information in educational hospitals of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences In this, descriptive-correlative study, 350 nurses were randomly selected. Personal demographic questionnaire [11 items] and Anticipated Turnover Scale [ATS] [12 items] were used to collect data. Content validity index and reliability were measured by internal consistency [alpha=0/80] and test- retest[r=0/81]. Samples of 12 teaching hospitals and in different shifts were selected and questionnaires were distributed and collected at nurses rest time. Data was analyzed by SPSS-16. Results showed that 88 percent of nurses were women and 92 percent had a bachelor's degree. Also they age range was between 57-23 and 48 /3 percent of them worked in medicalsurgical ward. Results indicated that nurses had a moderate intent to leave their work. In addition, between age with intent to leave [r= - 0/114] and work experience[r= - 0/158] with turnover, was a negative significant correlation. In addition, there was a significant correlation between organizational level and intent to leave [P= 0/007], shift and intent to leave [P = 0/001]. Given the high turnover of Iranian nurses than similar studies in abroad and according to previous research that showed a direct relationship between intent to leave and the actual turnover of nurses, need more attention

[Correlation between population characteristics and safety attitude to work of women workers in food factories]

Due to increase of accident work in Iranian women workers, safety attitude is an important factor at work and it should be considered. The aim of this study was to determine correlation between demographic characteristics and safety attitude of women workers in food factories. In this descriptive-correlation study, 171 woman workers were selected by multiphase sampling. Data was collected by 2-part questionnaire of demographic characteristics and "Safety Attitude to Work Questionnaire". Validity of the questionnaires was evaluated by CVI [92.10] and CVR [91.11]. In addition, face and reliability were determined by internal consistency [alpha=0.86] and test-retest [r=0.94]]. Result showed that most of the samples had positive safety attitude [81.3%]. In addition, results showed they also indicated that there is a significant correlation between marriage and number of children with safety attitude to work [P>0.01]. Contrary, there was a negative correlation between salary and work experiences with safety attitude [P>0.05]. Other demographic characteristics did not have a significant relationship with safety attitude [P<0.05]. Due to correlation between some demographic characteristics and safety attitude of women workers, further study is suggested for future research

[ correlation of family functioning dimensions and self-concept of adolescent smokers in Zanjan]

Use of tobacco products is a most common problem among adolescents. Few researches have been conducted on correlation of family functioning and self-concept among adolescent smokers. The aim of this study was to determine the correlation of family functioning dimensions and self-concept of adolescent smokers in Zanjan In this descriptive-correlational study, 100 male adolescent smokers were selected by purposive sampling method. A questionnaire was used for data collection that included 3 parts: 1- demographic characteristics 2- Mc Master Family Assessment Device 3- Beck Self-Concept Test. Face and content and validity index of instruments were measured. Reliability of the instrument was determined by internal consistency for Mc Master Family Assessment Device [Alpha=0.81], Beck Self-Concept Test [Alpha=0.91] and test- retest method [Ghe=0.84] and [Ghe=0.91] respectively. Data was analyzed by SPSS/16. Results showed that the highest and lowest dimensions of family functioning were problem solving function and roles function respectively. Most subjects [88%] had average family functioning and only 4% of them had high family functioning. In addition, results illustrated that, 61% of subjects had neutral self-concept. There was a significant correlation between family functioning and self-concept and affective response had the highest score than other dimensions of family functioning [r=0.34, P=0.000]. The results of the study showed that adolescents' self-concepts were correlated with family functioning. Therefore, creating a supportive family environment and parenting education, should be incorporated in nursing interventions of smoking prevention

[ survey of physical activities in women lectures of university: development, validation and use of 'time diary of adult physical activity']

Introduction: Knowing the amount and type of physical activity is essential for adults. One of the methods of collecting data about this, is ''time diary'' that in recent years has been considered. The aim of this study was to determine physical activities in female lectures of university, development, validation and use of 'Time Diary of Adult Physical Activity'

Methods and Materials: The design of this study was descriptive. 50 female lectures of university as sample participated. For data collection, pervious instruments were assessed, mixed and then 'Time Diary for Adult's Physical Activity' was developed. In case of validation [content and face validity], the developed instrument was distributed to 6 experts and content and face validity was approved. For collecting data, 'Time Diary of Adult Physical Activity', distributed to women lectures of university and requested to record physical activity of a usual day. Later, data were analyzed

Findings: Results in this study showed that in a usual day, 63% of samples with mean of 13 hours and 20 minute had light physical activity [sitting, working with computer and ..] 33% of them with 8 hours and 50 minute had moderate physical activity [work with students, cleaning home and ...] and 4% of them with mean 2 hours and 10 minute had heavy physical activity [sporting, fast waking and ...]

Conclusion: Lack of appropriate and enough of physical activity and gain weight can create healthy problems and considering this issue is so important. Use of 'Time Diary of Adult Physical Activity' as a valid instrument is suggested

[Development and psychometric evaluation 'nurse satisfaction of report writing scale]

Introduction: Recording nursing care is an important tool to determine eligibility and evaluation of care interventions. In this regard, satisfaction of nurse with recording could provide correct nursing record. The aim of this study was development and psychometric evaluation 'Nurse Satisfaction of Report Writing Scale'

Materials and methods: This Study is an exploratory study that by review of studies about concept and dimensions of satisfaction and satisfaction of nurses about report writing at primilarinary stage of, satisfaction "Nurse Satisfaction Report Writing Scale" was developed. Content validity was measured using Content Validity Index [Waltz and Basel] by 17 experts and face validity of the scale was assessed using 20 experts in the field of report writing and construct validity were evaluated by review of literature, books, articles, researches and interviews of experts. Moreover, reliability of the scale was determined by internal consistency [Cronbach's alpha] and test-retest [Pearson correlation coefficient]

Findings: At first stage item were developed in the scale and later using content validity index, items with value of more than 75% were retained. Hence, the numbers of items were reduced to 66 numbers. Construct validity of the questionnaire showed 7 factors. Furthermore, the findings showed, internal consistency reliability [Cronbach's alpha] [alpha=0/981] for 7 dimensions and re-test by Pearson correlation coefficient [r=0/912]. In final stage, 15 items were deleted thus total number of items reduced to 51 items

Conclusion: The results of this study showed that questionnaire of nurses with 51 items of the type of report writing Likert is valid and reliable. Due to the lack of valid and reliable scale to measure satisfaction of nurses from report writing, using the scale can be helpful. Measuring other types of validity such as concurrent validity is recommended

Positive effects of illness following acute myocardial infarction

Myocardial infarction is an important event and a huge change in patients' and their family life. The negative psychosocial consequences of the disease are well documented. However, studies on positive effects following myocardial infarction are much more limited. The aim of this study was to explore positive effects of illness following acute myocardial infarction. This paper is a part of findings of a more extensive grounded theory study. Eighteen people with first time myocardial infarction were selected by purposeful and theoretical sampling. Semi-structured interviews were used for data collection. The data were analyzed using constant comparison method. The findings showed that the participants have experienced one or more positive effects of the disease. Positive effects of illness were emerged in three main categories including: healthy lifestyle, worthwhile life/health, and promotion of social interaction/ interpersonal relationship. Patient with myocardial infarction experience huge tensions. However, the disease would also result in positive effects which could, in turn, facilitate recovery from illness and the process of adjustment to illness

[Correlation of social support and health in an elderly population in Iran]

Aged population is increasing in Iran, thus attention to elderly people's social needs and relationships are important. These needs have direct effect on their health and well-being. The aim of this study was to determine correlation of social support and health in an elderly population in Iran. In this descriptive - correlational study, 180 elderly people were selected by purposive sampling method. A questionnaire with 3 parts: 1- sociodemographic characteristics 2- social support scale 3- Short Form-36 [SF-36] Health Survey was used for data collection. Content and face validity was used in this questionnaire and reliability of the instrument was determined by internal consistency [alpha =0.91] and test-retest method [r=0.88] respectively. Data were analyzed with SPSS. Results showed that the highest and lowest aspects of the SF-36 were social function [82/5%] and physical function [68/75%]. Most subjects [74.4%]had good health and just 4.4 percent of them had poor health. In addition, results showed that both genders had strong family support. Furthermore, 61/1% of elders had strong and only 1/7% of them had weak social support. In general, there was a significant correlation between social support and general health and this correlation in vitality dimension was higher than aspects of health status. Findings showed that having social support is associated with better health and well-being among older adults. Based on the results of this study, health professionals can enhance social relationship

[Assessment of users' intention to use hospital information systems based on diffusion of innovation theory in Razi hospital of Ahvaz]

Users' role in the successful application of Hospital Information Systems [HIS] is of crucial importance. Diffusion of Innovation Theory [DIT] is a theoretical model for understanding the relationship between users and technological systems including HIS by assessing users' intentions to use these systems. This study aimed at determining the factors associated with users' intentions to use HIS on the basis of DIT. The participants of this descriptive and analytical study were randomly selected from 50 HIS users of Razi Hospital in Ahvaz. The instrument was a questionnaire the reliability of which was measured by test-retest [r = 0.84] and its internal consistency by Cronbach's alpha [alpha=0/90]. Content validity, and face validity of the questionnaire were also determined. The data were analyzed by SPSS [version 17] using descriptive and inferential statistics. There were negative correlations between age and relative advantage [r = -0.56, p<0.05], kinds of job and relative advantage [r = -0.32, p< 0. 05], age and compatibility [r = -0.28, p< 0.05], kinds of job and compatibility [r = - 0.29, p< 0.05] and kinds of job and observed ability [r = - 0.30, p< 0.05]. However, there were positive correlations between educational level and complexity [r = 0.29, p< 0.05], computer training and trial ability [r= 0. 28, p< 0.05], financial organizational support and relative advantage [r =0.31, p< 0.05], emotional organizational support and relative advantage [r = 0.36, p< 0.05], and emotional organizational support and compatibility [r = 0. 27, p< 0.05]. The results revealed the effects of DIT on users' intentions to use HIS. Further studies are required to support the findings of the present study in order to enhance adaptation and compatibility of HIS

survey of hygiene and safety physical environment status of primary schools in Shahrekord city in 2009

Today, about 6 million elementary school students are studying in Iran. Due to physical characteristic and special behavior, these students are faced with environmental dangers more than adults. Hygiene and safety physical environment of schools has effective role in the students health.The aim of this research was to determine physical environment health status of public primary school students in Shahrekord city in 2009. In the present descriptive study, all 37 public primary schools of Shahrekord city were surveyed using census methodology.Data were collected through checklist with l05 questions including four sections. Validity tools confirmed content validity. Reliability tools confirmed inter-rater correlation coefficient.Check lists were completed by direct observation and exact measures by standard meter and review and observation documents. Data were analyzed by SPSS software version 16 through two-way variance analysis [p<0.01]. The results showed that health status of school buildings in 100% of schools was appropriate. Equipment and facilities in 47.4% of schools were suitable and in 52 .6% were insufficient. Health facilities status in 36.8%of schools was suitable and in 63.2% was insufficient. Safety physical environment status in 36.8% of schools was suitable and in 63.2% was insufficient. The results also indicated the health status of these buildings scored highest with a mean and standard deviation of 75.6 +/- 3.1 while status of health facilities scored lowest with the mean and standard deviation of 31.2 +/- 4. According to the results hygiene and safety physical environmental status did not have a satisfactory condition. Continuous checking of the condition helps to find weak and strong point in order to plan a better health condition of primary schools

[Factors related to exercise performance according to theory of planned behavior in female students of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences]

The regular physical activity can lead to physical, psychological and social health. Studies have shown that%80 of Iranian people does not exercise. Therefore, due to the importance of exercise performance and concepts of Theory of Planned Behavior, different studies are needed regarding its related factors according to a theoretical framework. The aim of this descriptive correlational study was to determine factors related to exercise performance according to the Theory of Planned Behavior in female students in 2009. 444 female students were selected by stratified sampling method. Data collection tool was a questionnaire including 6 parts: 1- external variables, 2-attitiude to exercise, 3-subjective norms of exercise, 4- perceived control behavior toward exercise, 5- intention to exercise, and 6- exercise. Content validity index, face validity and reliability of the tool were identified by internal consistency and test-retest methods respectively. Data were analyzed by SPSS [ver. 15]. Mean, standard deviation, distribution of frequency, regression and path analysis were calculated in data analysis. Attitude and control of perceived behavior were positively correlated with intention to exercise and subjective norms, controlled perceived behavior regarding exercise as well as intention to exercise were positively correlated with exercise performance. Furthermore, control of perceived behavior was indirectly correlated with exercise performance through intention to exercise while subjective norms had no correlation with exercise performance. Providing positive attitude and increasing the control of perceived behavior regarding exercise can motivate people to do it

[Effects of walking on quality of life [QOL] of mastectomy patients in hospitals of Tehran]

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women with an estimated new cases amount to 178000 in 2007. Although surgery is the most frequent intervention, patients experience problems both from the disease and from surgery, leading to negative impact on their quality of life [QOL]. Accordingly, such exercises as walking can improve their QOL. The aim of this quasi-experimental one-group study was to assess the effect of walking on QOL of mastectomy patients in 2007. 34 subjects selected by purposive and convenience sampling methods took part in the study. A two-part questionnaire including demographic as well as QOL items and a self-report form were used for data collection. After determining content and face validities, the reliability of the questionnaire was figured by internal consistency [alpha = 0.89] and test-retest [r = 0.91] methods. Walking was performed in a flat area, 3 times a week and each time 30 minutes over 6 weeks. QOL items in the questionnaire were completed 2 times before and after the intervention. Mean scores of physical domain before and after the intervention were% 64.55 +/- 8.10 and 78.89 +/- 5.81, of psychological domain 52.89 +/- 10.74 and 64.92 +/- 8.64, of social domain 64.76 +/- 9.59 and 79.06 +/- 25.62, of economical domain 68.63 +/- 16.29 and 73.28 +/- 15.32 and of spiritual domain 79.96 +/- 12.57 and 82.54 +/- 11.18 respectively. Mean scores of total QOL were 66.16 +/- 6.30 and 75.74 +/- 6.59 before and after the intervention respectively. A significant increase was found in all domains except spiritual. It can be concluded that walking has positive effects on QOL of mastectomy patients to overcome their problems

[Daily living activities of the elderly in nursing homes]

Aging is inevitable, starts gradually as the last stage of development in all people leading to alterations in body compounds and decreased efficiency of organs and affects on physical ability at different levels. Deterioration of physical abilities and its resultant limitations reduces the independence of the elderly and increases their reliance on others. WHO reports suggest that inactivity or immobility in living is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. This descriptive study was conducted to assess physical activities of the elderly and identify their problems and needs in nursing homes of Sanandaj. A healthcare plan was then developed according to their needs. 88 elders [over 65] from 2 governmental and private nursing homes took part in the study. A questionnaire [Independence in Daily Living Activities] developed in 2006 with 20 items describing all daily physical activities was used for data collection. It was completed by observation and interview. It divides independence into 2 levels and a 5-point Likert scale [from 0 to 4 points] including absolutely independent, relatively independent, relatively dependent, absolutely dependent, and inactive because of nonphysical problems is used for scoring. The scores range between 20 and 80 or less. 51% of the elderly was male, 56% between 65 and 75, 88% illiterate, 61% from other towns and 42% resided at nursing homes less than 3 years. 6 [6.82%], 51 [57.95%], 26 [29.55%] and 5 [5.68%] elders were absolutely independent, relatively independent, relatively dependent and absolutely dependent respectively. The last group needed constant care for all of their daily activities. Being in nursing homes requires daily activities and some tasks for self-care. Activities of the elderly for mobility and self-dependence help maintain their health but inactivity can increase their need to carers and assisting or ambulatory devices. The importance of activity limitations is revealed when their physical mobility is assessed by an appropriate tool to provide a criterion for predicting as well as planning health care services and, finally, for their self-care and health promotion. The tool applied in this study is recommended

[Self-treatment with drugs during gestation]

Pregnancy due to its nature is associated with some problems, which may increase the need for drugs. Drug self-treatment can cause severe complications and lack of information of mothers concerning the indications of drugs may have detrimental effects on family as well as society. This descriptive study was conducted to identify knowledge, attitude and practice of pregnant women regarding self-treatment with drugs in health care settings affiliated to Shaheed Beheshti Medical University in 2006. 180 pregnant women referring to healthcare centers were selected in 2 steps by cluster sampling method. The stage of their gestational period was not important. An information form was used for data collection. Findings showed that 98.3% of women knew the forbiddance of chemical drugs during pregnancy without prescription. 70.6% agreed chemical drug prescription by a professional. Of 180 women, 100 [55.5%] took chemical drugs during their pregnancy and 97.8% used the drugs by prescription. 11.1% took herbs by prescription while 84.2% used them without prescription and by recommendation of their acquaintances or their own views. 4.7% took herbs by suggestion of herbalists. It can be concluded that despite good knowledge of women about indications of chemical drugs, their information regarding herbs is not satisfactory. Therefore, developing appropriate educational plans in media, healthcare settings and prenatal clinics to improve their knowledge seems necessary

Self-efficacy and self-regulated learning in clinical performance of nursing students: a qualitative research

Self-efficacy and self-regulated learning play an important role in applying clinical knowledge and competencies. The aim of this study was to define self-efficacy and self-regulated learning in nursing students' clinical performance during field training. In a qualitative study, 50 participants were selected through purposive sampling method from Iran, Tehran, and Shahid Beheshti Medical Universities. Then 28 semi-structured and 3 focus group interviews were performed with volunteer nursing students. Data was analyzed using content analysis methods. The definition of self-efficacy and self-regulated learning were categorized in five and three themes, respectively. Self-efficacy in clinical performance based on the viewpoints of participants was equal to acquiring clinical skills, assessing patients, and planning, executing, and evaluating care plans. The experience of self-regulated learning in clinical performance was equivalent to efforts for clinical learning along with self-motivation, and practicing nursing process, as well as for acquiring professional behaviors. Self-efficacy and self-regulated learning affect independent patient care capability and help nursing students to promote their competencies and professional skills in this field

Knowledge, attitudes and practices of cleaning staff regarding hepatitis B virus

Hepatitis B virus [HBV] is endemic in human population. It is estimated that 400 million people are infected with HBV in the world. Healthcare workers face with the risk of HBV infection during their work. Despite the increase of the disease, lack of knowledge regarding the mode of transmission and methods of prevention including immunization is still a threat. The aim of this descriptive study was to assess knowledge, attitudes and practice of cleaning staff at Labafinejad Hospital regarding prevention of HBV. A questionnaire and a checklist of observation were used for data collection. The questionnaire consisted of 4 parts: 1] 18 questions regarding demographic characteristics; 2] 32 questions on knowledge, route of transmission and prevention of HBV infection; 3] 18 questions on attitude and 4] 4 questions regarding practice. It was validated and made reliable by content and test-retest methods [r=0.87]. The questionnaire was distributed among 100 cleaning staff. Finding showed that 75% of samples was male and 25% female. Knowledge score on universal precautions was moderate, attitude was good and practice was moderate. The results also showed that their attitude and practice were significantly correlated [P=0.009], practice had a significant correlation with age and sex [P=0.03]. However, Furthermore, there was a significant correlation between knowledge with attitude, [P=0.35] and knowledge with practice [P=0.12]. It can be concluded that cleaners had positive attitude toward HBV and implementation of universal precautions. On the other hand, cleaners had moderate knowledge and practice with regard to the mode of transmission. Therefore, performing comprehensive educational programs for cleaning staff regarding universal precautions seems necessary

[Satisfaction with service delivery in clients referring to urban health centers affiliated to Arak university of medical sciences]

Health care services in a community have a direct relation with the community health and development. People have different needs in the different ages, and meeting the needs is possible in the health care centers framework. The aim of this descriptive study was to assess satisfaction with service delivery in clients referring to urban health centers affiliated to Arak University of Medical Sciences. In this study 285 clients were selected using convenient sampling method. Data gathering tool consisted of 51 questions composed of demographic data [11 items], questions related to clients satisfaction with service delivery on maternity and child care [11 items], family planning services [9 items], vaccination [9 items], as well as health education [11 items]. Content validity was used to validate the tool and test-retest was calculated to determine reliability. The results showed a high level of satisfaction for mother and child services [37.69 +/- 4.18], moderate level of satisfaction for family planning [28.14 +/- 4.50], a high level of satisfaction with vaccination [31.44 +/- 2.88]. The results also revealed that most of clients [78.8%] were satisfied of health education. Also 86.1% and 83.3% were satisfied of maternity and child care and vaccination staff behaviors respectively. As a whole, findings indicated a general satisfaction with service delivery and staff behavior. Their average satisfaction was 63.2%. Further studies concerning the quality of services delivered by the health centers are necessary

Assessment of vertebral column [skeletal] disorders in 14-16 years old high school male students at Shaheed Beheshti Medical University, Tehran - Iran

One of the great problems, which children and teenagers may face, at school ages, is vertebral column deformities. These congenital and growth skeletal deformities are common and are musculoskeletal potential problems in children and adolescence age. The deformities may involve the vertebral column curvature [lateral or posterior anterior], that appear in frontal surface in form of scoliosis, and in sagital surface, in form of lordosis and kiphosis. The main purpose of this study was to assess vertebral column [skeletal] disorders in 14-16 years old high school male students at Shaheed Beheshti Medical University and health services educational catchments areas, Tehran, Iran in 2005-2006 and Provision of Related Strategies. This is a descriptive research. The research units consisted 216 boys aged between 14-18 years old, from first to third grade, which were selected randomly from high schools, based on multistage sampling. The data collection tools were a questionnaire and an observation record sheet. The screening tests performed in this study were a back and lateral observation and forward bending test. The results showed that 8.8 percent, 2.8 percent and 6.9 percent of the students in this research accordingly had scoliosis, Hyper lordosis and kiphosis. From the 8.8 percent of the students who had scoliosis, the deviation of 76 percent was on the right side. Based on the results of this study, the prevalence of vertebral column [skeletal] disorders was high, in comparison to other studies. Probable causes of the high prevalence of these disorders could be related to, inappropriate carrying and heavy weight of their bags, and inappropriate sitting while doing their homework