bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peak airway pressures exerted during manual hyperinflation by physiotherapists and nursing staff
Authors: Pearson SJ
Published: May 2014

Manual hyperinflation (MH) is widely used by respiratory physiotherapists on intensive care units. The incidence of MH-associated barotrauma is not well documented. Literature reviewed focused on MH, its uses and peak airway pressures (PAPs) associated with barotrauma. This study investigated PAPs reached by nurses and physiotherapists when performing MH. Although the results were not significant, there were many points of interest highlighted.
Elder rehabilitation: are we overlooking the main problem?
Authors: Simpson Janet M
Published: May 2014

Physiotherapists working with elderly people recently changed the name of their special interest group from ‘Association of Chartered Physiotherapists with a Special Interest in Elderly People’ to ‘Agile’. What does the chirpy new name tell us about the professionals who belong to the group or about the work they do? Not much perhaps. But then what is the work? What are the problems they are most likely to be called upon to tackle?
General design principles involved in a major kitchen adaptation for disabled and elderly people
Authors: Kors Sarah
Published: May 2014

Every disabled and elderly person needs their kitchen to be as accessible as possible if they are to maximize their levels of independence. Designers and planners therefore need to use extra thought and flexibility in their design to make it practical for the user. Designers have to realize that traditional design methods and processes cannot be used, because conventional standards for space, layout, unit positioning, plumbing and electrics are not necessarily compatible with the needs of the disabled user.
Alternatives to hormone replacement therapy
Authors: Dalton Katharina
Published: May 2014

Levels of oestrogen and progesterone vary before the menopause and in the rate of decline during the menopausal years. They are still required postmenopause.
Workshop: Analysis of postural changes and the menopause
Authors: MacDonald Roderic
Published: May 2014

Scientific medicine should be rational and empirical; i.e. ideally it should be based on sound inferences from our present knowledge that have been subjected to prospective experimental confirmation.
Developing an ethos of reflective practice for continuing professional development
Authors: Castle Alan
Published: May 2014

The developing and expanding role of radiographers as a result of advances in technology, changes in clinical practice and the restyling of the health services, requires the implementation of a comprehensive continuing professional development (CPD) programme.
The ‘Olympic ideal’
Authors: Jeffrey Andrew C
Published: May 2014

No matter what level of sporting prowess we may attain or aspire to, the sporting ethos that is the ‘Olympic ideal’ is one that inspires all to strive for greater achievements.
Does therapy work?
Authors: Gray Rosalind , Robb Duncan
Published: May 2014

Looking at a recent edition of the British Medical Journal (BMJ), one groaned at the title of an article by Enderby and Emerson ‘Speech and language therapy: does it work?’ Another article no doubt suggesting a lack of quantitative evidence for efficacy of therapy. But despite the challenging title, closer inspection revealed that here was a comprehensive analysis in which the authors conclude that therapy could be effective. One was particularly interested to read their conclusions regarding the evidence for aphasia therapy — it works!
What to look for in an outdoor powered wheelchair, scooter or buggy
Authors: Kelsall Ann
Published: May 2014

There is a wide range of powered wheelchairs, scooters and buggies designed for use outdoors. For many disabled and elderly people these are an ideal way of getting around and maintaining independence. The choice of vehicles can, however, be bewildering, and too frequently they are purchased without full consideration of the user's requirements. This article outlines the range of vehicles available and the features that should be taken into consideration in making an informed choice.
Communication aids for people with degenerative neurological conditions
Authors: Beresford Susan A
Published: May 2014

Communication in its broadest sense can be seen as the way that living creatures interact with the world in which they live. Human communication involves many of the senses — hearing, sight and touch — in addition to the motor skills involved in speech, writing and gesture. Communication enables people to express basic needs as well as emotions, and when denied causes isolation and frustration.
Mapping the brain with magnetometry
Authors: Fylan Fiona
Published: May 2014

Magnetometry is a relatively new technique that detects the magnetic fields arising from neuronal current flow within the human body. There are several applications for this technique, including examination of the activity of the brain (magnetoencephalography), and the heart (magnetocardiography) in normal subjects and in patients with various disease processes. This article describes the fundamental principles of magnetometry and explores its use as a functional imaging technique, particularly for the human brain.
Collaboration between health-care professions
Authors: Caan Woody
Published: May 2014

In NHS trusts all over the UK this summer, researchers bid for research and design (R&D) support funding under the new ‘Culyer’ system. Within the NHS Executive's strategic framework for this R&D funding a disciplinary mix is required, and the NHS Executive (1997) promise to:
Arthritis: using assistive devices to promote independence
Authors: Jeffreson Paula
Published: May 2014

What are the equipment needs of people with arthritis and how can we identify and obtain the right assistive device for a particular individual? Assessing people's functional ability and advising them on suitable equipment is an essential component of occupational therapy in the treatment of arthritis. It can make the difference between dependence and independence. The topic area is wide and this article serves as a general introduction. It is intended to be of interest to the student and newly practicing occupational therapist and also to other health-care professionals who work with people who have arthritis.
Ethical evaluation of nursing care: severe cognitive deficits
Authors: Hill Moira C
Published: May 2014

Ethics is of relevance to health care because of the wide range of moral beliefs in our multicultural society. Moral issues are daily events because the interactions between individuals are governed by personal values and judgments. This article describes the case of a woman with severe cognitive deficits who underwent an episode of neurological rehabilitation. The ethical issues raised by her circumstances are discussed.
Your data: what information do they contain?
Authors: McFadyen Angus
Published: May 2014

As the first of a series of articles covering statistical concepts in health research and social care, there is no better place to start than with the main source of information used within statistical analysis — your data. Researchers in the health area on occasions concentrate on the clinical importance of the details of their study and brush over the statistics as something that has, in general, to be undertaken but should be as painless as possible. This approach runs the risk of drawing conclusions that cannot be supported by the data. The surest way of avoiding such errors is to regard statistical issues, i.e. study design and data analysis, as central to the conduct of the study, and requiring as much attention as the substantive questions being investigated.
Developing manipulative skills in physiotherapists
Authors: Rushton Alison , Varty Jason
Published: May 2014

Within a market environment, managers and therapists are under growing pressure to provide evidence-based services. No more acutely has this been seen than in the management of low back pain. The Clinical Standard Advisory Group report (1994) and the Clinical Guidelines for the Management of Acute Low Back Pain (Department of Health, 1996) have produced nationwide responses within physiotherapy and other professions involved in its management. Within these reports the use of manipulation in patients with acute low back pain is advocated.
Psychiatric aspects of chronic fatigue syndrome
Authors: Cleare Anthony J
Published: May 2014

Between half and three-quarters of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) are also suffering from an identifiable psychiatric illness. The commonest seems to be depression, affecting 40–50% of patients with CFS, followed by anxiety disorders (10–20%) and somatization disorder (5–10%). The exact aetiological relationship between CFS and psychiatric disorders remains unclear. However, adequate detection and, if necessary, treatment of psychiatric problems is vital in the management of this disabling condition.
Rehabilitation in the USA and UK: a comparison of different centres
Authors: Davis Sally
Published: May 2014

This article is a personal, reflective account of a visit to a medical centre in Downey, California, a rehabilitation hospital in Scottsdale and a rehabilitation institute in Phoenix. A comparison of the way they operate is made with a rehabilitation centre in Oxford where the author works. A number of issues are discussed to highlight the differences and similarities.
Format and procedure for writing an interdisciplinary rehabilitation report
Authors: Duckett S
Published: May 2014

A number of authors have emphasized the critical need for an interdisciplinary team approach to effectively address the complex needs surrounding the head injured patient. Reports frequently form the single most important communication on assessment and progress within rehabilitation for the interdisciplinary team. However, despite this, interdisciplinary reports are often not written or compiled in a way that is useful to clinicians, managers or patients. The following article provides the format and procedures for an interdisciplinary report and discusses some of the difficulties with its implementation.
An overview of manipulation: 1
Authors: Lewis Barry J , Thiel Haymo W
Published: May 2014

Manipulation is rapidly gaining acceptance by orthodox practitioners as a valid method of treatment of joint dysfunction and pain syndromes. The first part of this overview will discuss definitions, patient assessment and the application of a typical manipulation (for low back pain) as it is practiced by most modern manipulative practitioners. In the second part of this article, which will run in the April issue of BJTR, indications and contraindications for treatment, scientific evidence, and established guidelines will be considered.
Developments in osteopathy: past, present and future
Authors: Collins Martin
Published: May 2014

The value of osteopathy in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders is now becoming widely recognized by both the public and general practitioners and an increasing proportion of the latter have developed contracts with osteopaths and refer patients to them. This paper traces the history of osteopathy, discusses its current status and predicts its future.
Cardiac rehabilitation programme management
Authors: Turner Sally
Published: May 2014

The Audit Commission's paper (1995) Dear to our hearts suggests that contracts for cardiological services should provide cardiac rehabilitation and related postdischarge support. As yet, in the mid- 90s, cardiac rehabilitation services are reaching only a limited number of potential patients with a huge geographical variation in the availability and development of suitable programmes. While health authorities grapple with the expansion of their cardiac services, e.g. screening measures and surgical procedures, to meet national and local targets, they do not match any new service provision with extra cardiac rehabilitation resources. This article describes one method of managing the care of the cardiac patient through all four phases of the rehabilitation process.
To lift or not to lift 2: the implications for patient lifting
Authors: Tracey Clive
Published: May 2014

Employers have had 4 years to implement the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (MHOR 92). The MHOR 92 do not distinguish between the professions and there are no different rules for therapists, nurses or carers. Their impact on nursing and therapeutic handling is widespread. The Royal College of Nursing encourages employers to adopt ‘no lifting’ policies which are feared as having a retrograde effect on the rehabilitation of patients. This paper discusses the implications of the MHOR 92 and ‘no lift’ policies concluding with suggested positive ways forward.
Powered wheelchairs for adults
Authors: Beresford Susan A
Published: May 2014

Wheelchairs can open up a new world to people who have impaired mobility, however, the difficulties that many wheelchair users face can be monumental. Many report being treated as second class citizens when outside the home and where an attendant is necessary to push the chair, they may be asked to talk for the user as well. Powered wheelchairs can provide the wheelchair user with greater control over their mobility outside as well as inside the home and can improve a person's independence and quality of life.
Occupational therapy and forensic addictive behaviours
Authors: Chacksfield John D , Forshaw David M
Published: May 2014

This paper briefly outlines the role of occupational therapy in assessing and treating patients with the tripartite problems of mental disorder, dangerousness and an addictive behaviour. The first unit dedicated to the management of such patients within conditions of high security was opened in Broadmoor Hospital in 1995. It is a 25-bedded male inpatient ward. This article focuses on occupational therapy in this unit, the forensic addictive behaviours unit, but many of the issues discussed apply to patients with an addiction within other forensic psychiatric settings.
Clinical practice: the social impact of disability
Authors: Gray Rosalind , Robb Duncan
Published: May 2014

In the foreword to Aphasia — A Social Approach (Jordan and Kaiser, 1996), Oliver, Professor of Disability Studies, states that:
Community care: providing a continuum of care
Authors: King Stanley J
Published: May 2014

A major transition in the provision of services within the community has occurred since the implementation of the Community Care Act 1990. The transition has certainly produced positive outcomes for those individuals previously cared for within long-term institutions. However, the limited and unclear focus of community care ignored the creative opportunities that could have been available in a wider variety of settings. Rather than closing hospitals and providing care in the community only, a continuum of care from hospitals to communities could be made available. This would provide a flexible service related to the real needs and desires of the individual rather than solely linked to any specific government or social policy.
A plain guide to referencing your work
Authors: Hammick Marilyn
Published: May 2014

In academic and professional writing, references are used to support the personal opinions and views of the author(s). Citations from major contributors of original thought to the subject are complimentary to the creative ideas of the writer of the new work. This paper explains the ways in which publishers and academic institutions expect citations and references to be presented. The need for consistency and accuracy in using a chosen referencing style is highlighted. The use of direct quotations and paraphrasing is demonstrated using the Harvard and Vancouver systems. Ideas for referencing some atypical sources of information are given.
Tactile discrimination in children: the tactile assessment kit
Authors: High Joy C , Gough Anna L , Wright Christine C , Fitch Angela
Published: May 2014

In this article, a tool for the assessment of tactile discrimination in children is described and research that aimed to investigate the ability of the test to differentiate across age and between children with and without coordination difficulties is reported. The results indicated that this test, the tactile assessment kit, will be useful as a clinical tool for differentiating dysfunction and any change in the children's functional ability due to maturation.
A global perspective of occupational therapy
Authors: Charlton Eric , Crofts Melanie
Published: May 2014

The 12th International Congress of the World Federation of Occupational Therapists took place in Montreal between 31 May and 5 June 1998. It was attended by 3500 delegates from 55 countries including 500 students.
Multisensory networking conference 1998
Authors: Wyatt Linda
Published: May 2014

The multisensory area at Walker Close in Ipswich has been open since 1991. The area is run by the occupational therapy (OT) department for adults with learning disabilities. Referrals are also accepted for those who do not have a learning disability but would benefit from treatment in this area.
Group rehabilitation for chronic back pain: a pilot study
Authors: Davey Rachel , Broadbent Hugo
Published: May 2014

Twelve subjects recruited by an advertisement in the Sheffield University newsletter and from referral from the pain clinic at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital, began a 12-week group exercise. Emphasis was placed on identifying specific impairments in back function and focusing on the functional restoration of these deficits using mobility, progressive strengthening and stretching exercises for the trunk, pelvis and hips. Physical function was assessed by measuring total lumbosacral flexion and extension, straight leg raising, hip extension, trunk curl and lifting capacity. Disability and pain beliefs were measured using the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability questionnaire and Survey of Pain Attitudes questionnaire respectively. Ten subjects completed the exercise programme (mean attendance of 16 sessions). Patients showed statistically significant (P<0.05) improvements in total lumbosacral extension, trunk curl and lifting capacity and perceived disability was reduced from a classification of ‘moderate’ to ‘minimal’ (Oswestry). There were also significant favourable changes in the pain beliefs about control and disability. The results demonstrated that moderately disabled subjects with chronic low back pain can benefit from a structured group exercise programme. This type of programme may be suitable for small groups of 10–12 patients, requires simple equipment and a modest amount of space.
Winter crisis: is rehabilitation a cure?
Authors: Maher Sharon E
Published: May 2014

‘Health authorities are to boost nursing services for older people in their own homes to avoid a winter crisis’ (Nursing Times, 1997). The winter crisis occurs when an increase in the numbers of elderly people requiring admission to acute beds becomes too much for the hospital to cope with. It is manifest by queues of elderly people waiting in accident and emergency departments and people with few health problems but many social problems ‘blocking beds’ on acute wards while they wait for their social circumstances to be reviewed and sorted. Frank Dobson said the money should be targeted at rehabilitative care (Nursing Times, 1997).
Lifelong learning in health care: who will pay?
Authors: Gopee Neil
Published: May 2014

As the rhetoric of recent decades concerning lifelong learning is gradually translated into practice, we may be seeing the evolution of a learning society in Britain. This long debated concept is coming to fruition in attempts to identify mechanisms and strategies that promote its implementation. For healthcare professionals this becomes even more important because we are dealing directly with individuals' physical and psychosocial health. While both formal and nonformal learning costs money, non-learning is more costly in terms of skill deficit to the individual and to society, as is the current experience within nursing.
Child sex abuse: assessment and therapy
Authors: Carney Paul
Published: May 2014

The problem of treating the perpetrators of sexual offences against children is one in which all members of the public have an interest. There is a dilemma between protecting the children living near the ex-offender and protecting the rights of individuals who have committed a misdemeanour in the past.
The use of hypnosis in communication disorders
Authors: Boyle Bernadette E
Published: May 2014

This paper outlines the background to the use of hypnosis in the treatment of communication disorders.and focuses on current practice in training and the treatment guidelines for the use of hypnosis in speech and language therapy
Adults sexually abused in childhood: therapeutic issues
Authors: Berry Mary
Published: May 2014

In this article, sexual abuse is defined, and assessment issues are discussed such as possible long-term effects, the importance of the working relationship, the gender of the therapist, the focus of the work and the issue of the ‘recovered memories’ debate. The paper ends with three further issues: couples work, groupwork and supervision. Relevant research and practice guidelines are offered.
Rehabilitation: researching cost effectiveness
Authors: Scullion Phillip
Published: May 2014

Increasingly, managers and health professionals involved in rehabilitation will be required to demonstrate the extent to which their interventions are effective (Jeffrey, 1993). Questions of cost-effectiveness become quite legitimate when one considers the limited evidence concerning the effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions (Sinclair and Dickinson, 1998) and the vast differences in length of stay within rehabilitation facilities between the USA and the UK (Davis, 1997).
The third way? Labour's White Paper on the NHS
Authors: Lloyd-Smith Walter
Published: May 2014

The Labour Government has set out its aims for health care in its White Paper The New NHS: Modern, Dependable. This will have a profound impact on all therapy staff and influence how they work and the services they provide. This paper aims to summarize the main changes in the White Paper and to raise discussion of these changes within the therapy professions. Future service delivery and professional development is dependent on a successful and skillful response to the White Paper.
Developing a self-evaluation form for patients with long-term mental illness
Authors: Salo-Chydenius Sisko
Published: May 2014

The accurate assessment of occupational functioning is one of the most difficult areas of occupational therapy. There is a strong need for reliable and valid instruments. The translation of measuring instruments is one option, but there are problems that impact on this, e.g. language and meaning, culture, values and social customs. New instruments for occupational therapy should be developed which take into account the sociocultural context. The instrument should be based on clinical needs and should help an occupational therapist to strengthen his/her work in the hospital or the community.

The self-evaluation of the activities of daily living for a patient with long-term mental illness (Salo-Chydenius, 1996b) is underpinned by cognitive–behavioural theories. This article looks at the development of an instrument for patient self-evaluation, and evaluates and compares it to standardized English instruments such as Liberman et al (1989), Birchwood and Tarrier (1992) and Bellack et al (1997). This instrument is still at the developmental stage, and further work is required to assess its reliability and validity.
Therapists and enabling technologies: knowledge and attitudes
Authors: Green Sharon , Willis Michael , Sixsmith Andrew
Published: May 2014

Enabling technologies are likely to become an important component of long-term care and support for people who are disabled or elderly. However, access to these technologies may often depend on the knowledge and experience of therapists. This article presents the results of a survey of occupational therapists, examining their awareness of technologies, sources of information, their attitudes and factors limiting the use of enabling technologies.
Injection therapy in management of musculoskeletal pain
Authors: Saunders Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Injection therapy has been used by the medical profession for many years with varied results. Since 1995 it has been within the scope of practice of chartered physiotherapists who have received training in the skill. This article examines the background to injection therapy, the clinical effectiveness of the treatment and the future of the skill in the hands of physiotherapists.
Forensic occupational therapy for people with learning disabilities
Authors: Smith Nicky
Published: May 2014

To date, there has been relatively little literature published on the role of the occupational therapist working in secure units for people with learning disabilities. It may be perceived that the role of occupational therapy is not that dissimilar from that in open settings, but particular aspects of the work will be different because of the constraints of the environment and legal requirements of patients detained under the Mental Health Act.
WHEELCHAIRS: USER REQUIREMENTS
Authors: Stacey Nicola
Published: May 2014

Maintaining a degree of mobility is of prime importance to the majority of people, especially for activities such as shopping and going on holiday. However, few people are aware of the wide range of wheelchairs that are available to assist with maintaining independent mobility. This article looks at the needs of wheelchair users and the practical considerations of the prescription of an appropriate wheelchair.
POWERED WHEELCHAIRS FOR ADULTS
Authors: Beresford Susan A
Published: May 2014

Wheelchairs can open up a new world to people who have impaired mobility, however, the difficulties that many wheelchair users face can be monumental. Many report being treated as second class citizens when outside the home and where an attendant is necessary to push the chair, they may be asked to talk for the user as well. Powered wheelchairs can provide the wheelchair user with greater control over their mobility outside as well as inside the home and can improve a person's independence and quality of life.
A new twist to the January sales?
Authors: Winchcombe Maggie
Published: May 2014

As the memory of the Christmas festivities fade many of us will turn our attention to another seasonal activity — the January sales. If you are a shopping addict keep your eyes open for some new products in the shops. You might be able to pick up something useful…a bath hoist, perhaps, or a set of large-handled cutlery!
CABIR: restoring the potential of young brain-injured people
Authors: Smith Michael
Published: May 2014

Ithe UK, 135 000 people suffer from long-term effects of severe brain damage caused by head injury. People aged between 15 and 29 years of age are at the highest risk of suffering brain injury, along with people aged over 75 years. Males in the 15–29 years age group are four or five times more at risk than their female counterparts. Each year, 10 000 people will suffer moderate brain damage and will still have physical or psychological problems after 5 years. A further 11 600 will suffer severe brain injuries of which only about 15% will return to work within 5 years.
Occupational therapy theory and practice in the field of HIV/AIDS
Authors: McVey Gillian , Roberts Anne Elizabeth , Rugg Sue
Published: May 2014

The incidence of a positive diagnosis of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) continues to increase. Innovations in pharmacological treatment mean that individuals are likely to survive longer and be more likely to need the intervention of the occupational therapist. This paper examines changing interventions for people with a positive diagnosis of HIV.
Is post-rehabilitation discharge of older people successful?
Authors: Tripp Isabel , Caan Woody
Published: May 2014

The major goal of therapy for many older people in a rehabilitation ward is discharge to their home. A retrospective study of former inpatients found that there were a variety of positive and negative outcomes to discharge. It was found that there was an association between indicators used both at admission and discharge and the success of post-rehabilitation outcomes.
Teaching and learning research and student projects
Authors: Scullion Philip
Published: May 2014

‘Learning by doing’ is a commonly adopted strategy within degree programmes for teaching research. This article questions the necessity and ethics of students undertaking research projects. Some student projects may require ethical approval and this paper goes on to examine how to successfully negotiate the local research ethics committee (LREC).
Enhancing independence in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Stewart Sandra , Neyerlin-Beale Janet
Published: May 2014

This study investigated whether occupational therapy intervention made a difference to children with cerebral palsy. It used two clinical outcome measures to assess whether fifteen such children became more independent in self-care activities following the provision of equipment or adaptations. Most children made significant improvements on both measures.
The Walsall Stroke Service: a model of integrated care
Authors: Williams Margaret , Craddock Margaret
Published: May 2014

The Walsall Stroke Service was initiated in 1995 and provides a model of integrated care across acute and community trusts. The service offers continuity of care and continuity of carers for patients from admission to hospital, through rehabilitation in the community, to referral to maintenance centres which provide a stimulating social environment and ongoing monitoring of progress.
Violence towards health-care professionals: the responsibilities of employers
Authors: Brewer Sheelagh
Published: May 2014

Any organization which handles money, such as banks and building societies, takes security very seriously as the motivation for robbery and associated violence against their staff is very clear. Explaining the violence that occurs in health care is not as simple. The vast majority of the public find it is hard to understand why a health-care professional should be subject to physical or verbal abuse. The statistics, however, confirm that it is an increasing hazard both in reality and in the perception that working in health care is an unsafe environment.
Parkinson's disease: myths and misconceptions
Authors: McCall Bridget
Published: May 2014

Parkinson's disease is a progressive, neurological condition affecting approximately 1:500 of the general population. The nature of Parkinson's disease is often misunderstood. This article explores four of the common misconceptions which surround Parkinson's disease in an attempt to promote better understanding of the complex nature of the condition.
Meeting the needs of parents with mental illness
Authors: Bassett Hazel , Lampe Jill , Lloyd Chris
Published: May 2014

Parenthood is considered a major life role for most people, but many parents with a mental illness have had difficulty assuming a parenting role as a result of a number of different factors. An early intervention approach adopted by occupational therapists in one mental-health service has attempted to address these issues by developing a parenting programme for parents with a mental illness.
Provision of electrically powered indoor/outdoor wheelchairs
Authors: Aldersea P , Ham R , White E
Published: May 2014

Variations in NHS wheelchair service delivery result in inequality for service users. The introduction of electrically powered indoor/outdoor wheelchairs was studied in three geographically different wheelchair services. A major reason for inequality was differing interpretation of NHS guidelines and methods of allocating funding. The study also raised issues relating to wider mobility and the environment.
The Neatdek2 Cambridge shower grille
Authors: Roper Annalisa
Published: May 2014

There are a wide range of products available to assist the elderly and people with disabilities with their personal care activities. For those who find it difficult to transfer in and out of the bath, and especially for wheelchair users, the only solution is the provision of level access showering facilities. The Neatdek 2 Cambridge shower grille is one such level access option.
Truth or illusion: evidence-based practice in the real world
Authors: Rogers Penny , Perren Peter
Published: May 2014

Both therapy and research are occurring within modernist/postmodernist and quantitative/qualitative paradigms. Such either/or stances assume polarized positions within which is an assumption that one position is the truth while the other is denied. This paper, as presentecl at the second evidence-based practice conference, explores evidence-based practice for therapists.
Statistical issues in health research: an overview
Authors: Maclaren William M , McFadyen Angus K
Published: May 2014

The impact of statistics at each stage of a research study in health-care sciences is described. Areas covered include design issues; repeatability and validity of the method of measurement; descriptive statistics and inference; reporting of results. Studies will usually benefit from the early involvement of a statistician, whose role should not be perceived as being confined to the data analysis phase only.
The Clos-o-Mat shower toilet
Authors: Beresford Susan A
Published: May 2014

Many people perceive a shower toilet as being in the luxury category of equipment to enable independence. In reality, a shower toilet can modify the environment of a disabled person, enabling them to maintain or regain their independence. The Clos-o-Mat shower toilet has been developed over the last 40 years and is manufactured by Total Hygeine in the UK.
Choosing a portable powered bath lift
Authors: Jensen Jan
Published: May 2014

Portable powered bath lifts are one of the many options available that enable people who are experiencing difficulty bathing to do so in comfort and safety. With an increasing number of products on the market occupational therapists must ensure that the needs of the client in their environment are fully assessed so that the most appropriate model to assist them can be recommended.
Considerations for bathroom equipment and adaptations
Authors: Dean Rachel
Published: May 2014

Personal cleansing and bathing is an integral component of daily life. In order to meet the bathing needs of someone with a disability, equipment or adaptations may be necessary. Many factors must be taken into account in order to ensure that the desired result is achieved, namely bathing facilities which the client is able to use safely and that are to their satisfaction.
Linking registration to the demonstration of continued competence
Authors: Burley Peter
Published: May 2014

The government says that the public has lost confidence in health professionals — this is questionable. It also says that their standing with the public can be enhanced by demonstrating continued competence under a statutory scheme (Department of Health, 2000).
Preschool autistic children: therapists' perspectives on practice
Authors: Buhagiar Nathalie
Published: May 2014

A study was undertaken to explore the practice of occupational therapists working with preschool autistic children. Findings confirmed that therapists need to constantly evaluate their approaches to therapy, develop assessment and treatment skills and acknowledge the importance of the family. Individualized treatment programmes are essential to achieve optimum outcomes in therapy.
Applying evidence-based practice: taking the rough with the smooth
Authors: Law James
Published: May 2014

Whenever anyone questions whether an intervention works or not, clinicians become jumpy. No one wants to admit that the intervention that they have been providing for their clients either does not work or is not as good as another intervention that they are not providing. The trouble is that the evidence base in speech and language therapy, as in all professions allied to medicine, is inadequate and we are often left with more gaps than evidence.
Joint protection: self-reported non-compliance
Authors: Crothers Pascalle , Adams Jo
Published: May 2014

The extent to which individuals with rheumatoid arthritis comply with joint protection advice has been questioned. This article describes a survey of 20 people with rheumatoid arthritis aged 18–45years who have received joint protection education. It was found that 60% of participants reported that they used correct joint protection techniques regularly.
Going global? Solving the recruitment crisis in the NHS
Authors: Buchan James
Published: May 2014

The new NHS plan projects ambitious growth targets for health services in England (Secretary of State for Health, 2000). It acknowledges that meeting these targets will depend on ‘growing’ the NHS workforce, including numbers of therapy professionals. Can the plan deliver the required increase in staffing?
From Exclusion to Inclusion: a key role for rehabilitation staff
Authors: Scullion Philip
Published: May 2014

In April 2000 the Disability Rights Commission comes into being. It is born out of 3 years of work by the government's Disability Rights Task Force (DRTF), which had a remit: ‘To consider how best to secure comprehensive, enforceable civil rights for disabled people within the context of our wider society, and to make recommendations on the role and functions of a Disability Rights Commission’(DRTF, 1999).
Therapeutic use of play with pre-school children with PDD
Authors: Cook Vivienne , Murray Katie
Published: May 2014

This article describes the role of occupational therapists who work in a specialist multidisciplinary service for children with pervasive developmental disorders (PDD), particularly those with autistic spectrum disorder. The authors describe how occupational therapists assess, plan and implement intervention with pre-school age children with PDD.
Transdisciplinary working: challenges in practice
Authors: Tidey Hilary
Published: May 2014

Children with multiple disabilities may have physical, learning and language disabilities as well as communication, social and emotional disabilities (Batshaw, 1997). They usually require the services of a number of professionals, including therapists who have either worked independently or in multidisciplinary teams with colleagues in health, education and social services.
Research Assessment Exercise 2001: what is the big deal?
Authors: Lamb Sallie
Published: May 2014

In 6 months time, universities and other higher education institutions across the UK will be invited by the Higher Education Funding bodies to submit statements and supporting evidence about the quality and nature of research activity undertaken in their institutions. This process is known as the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE).
Revolutionizing the adapted bathroom
Authors: Kimbell Jane
Published: May 2014

The new Liberty shower system from ESL offers a totally new concept in the bathroom, allowing greater functionality for both able and less able bathers. Previewed at the recent Naidex exhibition at the NEC in Birmingham, the Liberty shower system will be launched in the UK in October.
Broken neck of femur: does rehabilitation improve function?
Authors: Tippett Christine
Published: May 2014

A study was undertaken to establish whether elderly patients with a hip fracture improved their functional ability through rehabilitation. All patients improved their functional ability regardless of age and cognitive ability, although increased age and decreased cognitive ability were found to relate to lower functional ability.
An overview of the Mountway Solo toilet lift
Authors: Beresford Susan A
Published: May 2014

Most people prefer to be independent in toileting if at all possible. Some older or disabled people feel embarrassed asking for help in this area of care. The Solo toilet lift from Mountway could be a possible way to enable these people to transfer on and off the toilet independently. It is easy to install, neat and unobtrusive when placed around the toilet, and it is easy to use.
Community care: a standard for good practice
Authors: O'Brien Aileen
Published: May 2014

Frank Dobson, the then Secretary of State for Health, declared in 1998 that ‘community care has failed’. This came at a time when a small number of tragedies involving the mentally ill living in the community were highly publicized, leading to a public perception that their care was indeed seriously inadequate. The report Community Care (Royal College of Psychiatrists, 2000) aimed to redress the balance and to clearly set out the responsibilities of the profession, with guidelines regarding good practice based on both the research evidence available and the consensus view of patient and carer representatives and clinicians.
Disabling practice? Enabling nursing
Authors: Thomas Sue
Published: May 2014

Over the last 3 years, the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has increased its involvement in the disability arena, and it is making a conscious effort to raise awareness of the needs of people who have an impairment or disability. Work has included a policy statement on disability, which promotes the social model of disability (RCN, 1999), disability articles in journals and the ‘Disabling Practice? Enabling Nursing’ conference.
Occupational health in Great Britain: Securing Health Together
Authors: Gibby Elizabeth M
Published: May 2014

Securing Health Together is the new national strategy for occupational health. If partners work together, the strategy should help stop people being made ill by work and should also help with returning people to work following illhealth and accidents. Multidisciplinary team working among health professionals will be very helpful to this outcome.
Evaluating a degree for specialist rehabilitation practitioners
Authors: Davis Sally
Published: May 2014

This study describes the evaluation of a post-registration interdisciplinary degree course which enables registered nurses to be specialist rehabilitation practitioners. Data were collected from semi-structured interviews with students and stakeholders and from professional profiles. This allowed identification of a number of elements essential to the role of specialist rehabilitation practitioner.
Rights and responsibilities: can we take the risk?
Authors: Winchcombe Maggie
Published: May 2014

We all take risks in the course of everyday life; in our decisions to buy an expensive item, perhaps, or just by crossing the road or driving in our cars. The media constantly tells us about financial risks involved in making investments, the risks we take when travelling by plane or train and so on. We take risks for granted as part of having choice and responsibility for our own lives.
Empowerment in the treatment of hand-injured patients
Authors: Ball Cathy
Published: May 2014

This article reviews the concept of empowerment and the relevance to the treatment of hand-injured patients. The importance of providing relevant information, an understanding of illness behaviour and compliance are discussed.
Seating for children and adolescents with special needs
Authors: Taylor–Cookson Judith , Mitchell Justine
Published: May 2014

This article aims to give an overview of the most frequently recommended pieces of specialist seating for children with special needs. For the purpose of the article, seating provision has been considered in relation to provision within an educational setting.The seating systems discussed look at meeting the needs of children with different levels of postural ability.
Parker Sovereign bath
Authors: Harpin Philippa
Published: May 2014

Is this Parker bath an expensive solution or a well-tried and tested answer to bathing difficulties experienced by children and adults with muscular dystrophy and allied neuromuscular conditions as well as other severely disabled people?
Predicting length of stay in hospital after brain injury
Authors: Craigie Mark , Muncer Steven J , Shah Surya
Published: May 2014

It is very useful to have good predictive measures of rehabilitation outcome so that limited resources can be allocated efficiently. This paper reports a cross-validation of a regression equation that predicts length of hospital stay from a patient's admission score on the modified Barthel index. The equation was successful in predicting length of hospital stay in the study.
Role and responsibilities of the Health Professions Council
Authors: Gopee Neil
Published: May 2014

The Health Professions Council (HPC) will formally come into effect on 1 April 2002, taking over from the Council for Professions Supplementary to Medicine (CPSM) and its 12 boards as the new regulatory body (Shadow HPC, 2001).
An overview of the Levo range of stand-up wheelchairs
Authors: Henshaw Jane
Published: May 2014

Stand-up wheelchairs enable many wheelchair users to stand up again, which brings with it many health, functional, psychological and economic benefits. This article introduces and reviews the Levo range of stand-up wheelchairs.
Mobility in the integration of disabled and able-bodied children
Authors: Ham Rosalind
Published: May 2014

The national charity Whizz-Kidz recently undertook a media survey of able and disabled young people to establish:
Bone mineral response to exercise in post-menopausal women
Authors: Davey Rachel C , Cochrane Tom , Fongchotip Praneet , Heffron Marianne
Published: May 2014

This study investigates whether torsional resistance exercise affects radial bone mineral density in post-menopausal women. The study was carried out by measuring bone mineral density and grip strength in 10 such women between the ages of 49–68 years after a 12-week wrist exercise programme.
Community stroke rehabilitation: a model of good practice
Authors: Greene Jane
Published: May 2014

This article describes the development of an award-winning multidisciplinary rehabilitation service for stroke which includes carer support, health promotion and goal-setting as a foundation for therapy programmes. Analysis of the effective elements help to explain the reason for its success.
Measuring and evaluating rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Kennedy Norelee , Stokes Emma
Published: May 2014

This article discusses a number of outcome measures suitable for use by physiotherapists working with patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Both objective and patient-reported measures are included, which together provide a comprehensive evaluation of the disease.
Management and measurement in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Lindop Fiona
Published: May 2014

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder with three major symptoms: tremor, rigidity and bradykinesia. Further symptoms include gait disorders, freezing and akinesia. Almost 40% of PD patients will fall during the course of the disease and of these, 18% are likely to sustain fractures (Morris and Lansek, 1997).
BOOK REVIEW
Authors: Adams Jo , Chapman Nikki
Published: May 2014

This text is written by a group of respected international specialists in upper limb musculoskeletal rehabilitation. They present a well written, easy to follow book for qualified therapists and surgeons. The book provides an overview of the basic principles of wound and tissue healing and general therapy principles. It is then divided into chapters on: the hand; the wrist; the elbow; the shoulder; and concludes with a chapter on generalized injury and disease affecting the whole upper limb.