bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WHAT HAS WORKED WITH RECIDIVIST DRINK DRIVERS TO REDUCE RE-OFFENDING?
Authors: Wood B
Published: October 2012

Northland had the highest drink driving rates in New Zealand. As a result a recidivist drink drivers Programme called the Drive SOBA Programme (DSP) commenced in Whangarei in June 2007 to address the high rate. The DSP is evidenced based on the ‘risk, need and responsivity principles’ of what interventions work to reduce offending behaviour, with the aim of reducing re-offending. It consists of 12 group sessions and two individual sessions. An evaluation, 2 years after the DSP commenced, found a 5% re-offending rate for those that completed the programme. In addition for participants that completed they reduced their alcohol consumption with evidence of reduction up to 1 year post programme. Since 2010 the DSP has been delivered throughout Northland and has been well attended. A further evaluation of the DSP was conducted from June 2007 to June 2011. The data on re-offending at the end of August 2011, found an 8% re-offending rate for those that completed the programme. The contribution this programme has made to the field is a reduction in recidivist drink driving, 92% had not re-offended. Further to this, this past year Whangarei District had the lowest road death toll since 1970. It is acknowledged by other organisations concerned with road safety that along with other initiatives the DSP has contributed to this reduction. Researches have stated that preventing recidivists from re-offending is most likely to have the greatest impact on Alcohol related crashes.
CONCORDANCE OF IDENTIFIED DRUGS IN INJURED DRIVERS USING LINKED MOTOR VEHICLE CRASH, EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT, AND INPATIENT HOSPITALISATION DATASETS
Authors: Bunn T , Singleton M , Slavova S , Nicholson V
Published: October 2012

Background

Kentucky has the 6th highest drug overdose rate, 5th highest medical use rate of opioid pain relievers, and 11th highest opioid pain reliever sales rate in the USA (CDC, 2011).

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

The present study was undertaken to identify the presence of drugs (illicit and prescription) and crash characteristics among drivers who were injured in a motor vehicle crash using linked emergency department (ED), inpatient hospitalisation (IH), and crash data.

Methods

Kentucky CRASH data was probabilistically linked to emergency department datasets for years 2008–2009 and to inpatient hospitalisation datasets for years 2000–2009. Descriptive analyses were performed.

Results/Outcome

Of the 47 089 linked crash/ED-treated cases, there were: (1) 408 drivers diagnosed with non-dependent abuse of drugs (NDAD) in the ED; (2) 697 drivers cited for drugs in CRASH data (only 102 overlapped and were cited for drugs in both CRASH data and coded as NDAD in IH); (3) 42 drivers diagnosed with multiple drugs; and (4) 98 drivers in very severe crashes. Of the 19 466 total linked crash/IH cases, there were: (1) 1045 drivers diagnosed with NDAD in the IH; (2) 656 drivers cited for drugs in CRASH data (186 overlapped); (3) 250 drivers diagnosed with multiple drugs; and (4) 484 drivers in very severe crashes.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

Community and workplace strategies focusing on comprehensive drug policies (eg, increased drug recognition training of police officers and increased traffic fines) and interventions (eg, improved prescription drug monitoring programmes, designated drivers) are necessary to reduce driving while under the influence of drugs.
WALES BURDEN OF INJURY STUDY
Authors: Macey S , Jones SJ , Pinder L , Humphreys C , Price T , Evans L , Hughes R , Lyons RA
Published: October 2012

Background

Injuries are still a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in high-income countries. However the true burden of injuries is difficult to determine and largely unmeasured. Quantifying the extent of the issue is an important step in informing policy makers responsible for prevention and control.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

To quantify the extent of the burden and societal cost of injuries in Wales.

Methods

The Wales Burden of Injury (WBOI) study utilised the methodology developed by the UK Burden of Injuries project and contributions from by the Global Burden of Diseases Injury Expert Group. Data from emergency department attendances, hospital admissions and outpatient contacts for injuries were stratified by gender, age, local authority, health board area, socio-economic status, cause and intent categories. Years lived with disability (YLDs) and years of life lost (YLLs) were used to calculate disability adjusted life years (DALYs) from injuries.

Results/Outcomes

Population rates per 100 000 in 2009 were: 14 812 for emergency department injury attendances; 1394 for hospital admissions and 26 391 for outpatient contacts. These cases resulted in 43 706 YLDs, 6958 YLLs and 50 664 DALYs. Using a health service funding threshold of £30 000 per DALY produced an intangible societal cost of £1.52 billion for injuries occurring that year.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

The WBOI study has improved measurement of the societal impact of injuries. The results and a compendium of effective interventions will be presented to central and local government and health service managers later this year and used to inform appropriate prevention and control policies.
VALIDATING EVIDENCE-BASED CRITERIA FOR IDENTIFYING INCIDENT HIP FRACTURES IN THE ABSENCE OF DATE OF INJURY
Authors: Vu T , Davie G , Barson D , Day L , Finch C
Published: October 2012

Background

Hospital discharge data (HDD) in many countries do not capture the date of injury (DOI); the absence of which hinders researchers' ability to distinguish repeat from incident injury admissions. Various approaches have been explored to increase the accuracy of hip fracture incidence estimates but these approaches have not been validated against a data source which contains the DOI.

Objective

To determine the accuracy of evidence-based criteria for identifying incident fall-related hip fractures from person-identifying (person-level) HDD in the absence of the DOI.

Methods We analysed fall-related, person-level HDD from New Zealand (NZ) between 1 July 2005 and 30 June 2008 (inclusive) to estimate the incidence of hospital admission for fall-related hip fracture in older people. We defined data containing the DOI as the reference standard, and using standard definitions we calculated measures of accuracy of the following evidence-based criteria: age ≥65, principal diagnosis hip fracture, first listed external cause indicating a fall, admission type emergency, admission source other than a transfer and presence of hip operation code(s).

Results

The sensitivity and specificity of the criteria for identifying incident fall-related hip fractures from data not containing the DOI were 96.4% and 99.3%, respectively, compared to the reference standard. The application of these criteria resulted in a slight underestimation of fall-related hip fracture incidence in older people in NZ.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

This study demonstrates the utility of evidence-based criteria when the DOI is unavailable.
MEASURING THE SUSTAINABILITY OF A COMMUNITY SAFETY PROMOTION NETWORK: WORKING FROM THE INSIDE OUT
Authors: Hanson D , McFarlane K , Vardon P , Lloyd J , Speare R , Durrheim D
Published: October 2012

Background

While project sustainability is a mandatory piece of politically correct rhetoric, it is less often achieved. Mackay Whitsunday Safe Communities (MWSC) was developed using a capacity building model that consciously attempted to design sustainability into the network.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

This study sought to analyse the sustainability of MWSC by tracking the exchange of resources using Social Network Analysis (SNA).

Method

A snowballing methodology was used to identify the MWSC and its external support network (ESN). Respondents were asked to identify the type and amount of resources they shared with other network partners.

Results/Outcome

The study identified 168 members of the MWSC and its ESN. Thirty-five per cent of relationships did not share any resources; 47% shared in-kind resources, 54% shared human resources and 15% shared financial resources. In 2004 MWSC accessed an estimated 6.5 full time staff equivalents and $0.9 million Australian dollars. However, these resources were largely accessed through, and controlled by, the ESN. MWSC was rich in social resources, but considerable in-kind, human and financial resources were accessed through its ESN. The bridging relationships that connected MWSC to its ESN, more than half of which were maintained by six broker network facilitators, were the critical social asset required to access resources and thereby sustain network productivity.

Significance/Contribution to Field

MWSC is an open network. Open social networks can never be totally self-sufficient. The ongoing productivity of a social network is dependant on its capacity to develop and maintain productive links with external partners.
WHAT DO WE NEED FOR INJURY PREVENTION AND SAFETY PROMOTION AS EVIDENCE?
Authors: Park N
Published: October 2012

Background

As increasing injury problems and getting more social attentions, Injury prevention has included as one of major focusing areas in National Health Promotion Plan 2020 in Korea from 2011. But it has many limitations on formulating scientific and putting evidence to practical use in Korean context.

Objectives

The purpose of this research is to identify the consensus on evidence for our context firstly and discuss how to develop and utilise of evidence for injury prevention and safety promotion in Korea.

Methods

We reviewed literatures and web databases related to evidence and had in-depth interviews with experts for finding implications in 2011.

Results

Most of previous evidence is focusing on experimental and clinical outcome study, educational strategy, individual approach, western issues. It has limitation for application to our situations directly. To solve this problem, we discussed the utilisation methods of previous evidence, encouragement of injury research with preventive aspects. It needs to develop the criteria on evidence and evaluation methods on comprehensive strategies tailored for our context and to modify the management of research process and establish the supportive system for utilisation as quality assurance at national level.

Contribution to this Field

It is preliminary research for development of evidence and its utilisation. Through this result, we can make the foundation for settlement and activation of evidence based project in Korean context.
PREVENTING FALLS IN OLDER PEOPLE: THE NEW ZEALAND EXPERIENCE
Authors: Robertson C , Campbell J
Published: October 2012

Background

New Zealand researchers have made major contributions to the development of proven falls prevention programmes in older people. National strategies for falls and injury prevention have been implemented.

Objectives

To review the evidence from New Zealand related to preventing falls in older people and describe the nation wide approach to falls prevention in New Zealand.

Methods

We reviewed the published literature on falls prevention in older people to determine the most effective, cost effective, and sustainable strategies for wide spread implementation.

Outcome

The home based Otago Exercise Programme has been trialled extensively with different population groups. It is most cost effective in those 80 years and over. Tai chi is also effective in reducing falls. Psychotropic drug withdrawal is highly effective in reducing falls but has a low adherence and would be staff intensive if introduced as a public health measure. Occupational therapy assessment and home modification would be suitable for national implementation for those with severe visual impairment. The international literature shows that vitamin D supplementation reduces the rate of falls in nursing care residents with low serum vitamin D levels.

Significance

Nation wide implementation has been achieved with the Otago Exercise Programme and tai chi, and vitamin D supplementation for nursing care residents. Sustainability of optimal strategies requires collaboration across ACC, the Ministry of Health, local District Health Boards, Primary Health Organisations, and researchers.
NON-RESPONSE BIAS IN A COMMUNITY SURVEY OF DRINKING, ALCOHOL-RELATED EXPERIENCES AND PUBLIC OPINION ON ALCOHOL POLICY
Authors: Maclennan B , Kypri K , Langley J , Room R
Published: October 2012

Background

The continuing decline in response rates to household surveys is a concern for the health and social sciences as it increases the risk of selective non-response biasing the estimates of interest.

Aim

To assess non-response bias in a postal survey measuring drinking behaviour, experience of harm and opinion on local government alcohol policies among residents in six New Zealand communities.

Methods

The Continuum of Resistance model, which suggests that late respondents to a survey are most similar to non-respondents on the measures of interest, was used to guide our investigation.

Results

Men, younger people, those of Māori descent and those living in more deprived areas were less likely to respond to our survey than women, older people, those not of Māori descent and those living in comparatively affluent areas. Late respondents more closely resembled non-respondents demographically than early respondents. The prevalence of binge drinking and experience of assault was higher, and support for restrictive local government alcohol policies lower, among late respondents. Assuming the drinking behaviour and alcohol-related experiences of non-respondents were the same as those of late respondents, prevalence was under-estimated by 3.4% (relative difference: 13%) and 2.1% (relative difference: 21%) for monthly binge drinking and assault respectively. There was little evidence of bias in estimates of policy support.

Contribution to the Field

The findings add to a growing body of evidence suggesting that surveys under-estimate risk behaviour because of selective non-response. Notably, public opinion may not be subject to such misestimation.
DEVELOPMENT OF RISK ASSESSMENT SYSTEM OF CHILD'S FEMUR AND FOREARM FRACTURE DUE TO AIR-FILLED PLAY EQUIPMENT AND RECOMMENDATION REGARDING ITS SAFE USE
Authors: Tokoro Y , Nishida Y , Mizoguchi H , Yamanaka T
Published: October 2012

Background

Recently, the number of injuries due to play equipment consisting of an air-inflated membrane has been rapidly increasing. For example, a child fractures his femur when he is jumping on the play equipment and an adult is also jumping around him.

Purpose

Research to understand the dynamics of the air-inflated membrane structures is strongly required.

Methods

We developed a child's femur impactor (figure 1) to measure the impact force on the femur when the child falls on the equipment and examined the dynamics of the play equipment.Figure 1

Play equipment and femur impactor.

Results

We conducted drop experiments to measure the impact force applied to the femur when landing on the equipment in the situation that a single child fall from a high position. The experimental result indicates that the impact force in the case of a single fall is proportional to both the collision velocity and the weight. Second, we studied the characteristics of the play equipment when two or more people are jumping. The experiment using the impactor revealed the new finding that the propagation of the membrane tension generated by a jumping adult can cause a fracture of the femur bone of a child around the adult. The computer simulation also supports the findings (figure 2).Figure 2

Computer simulation of propagation of impact.

Significance

This new finding suggests that a new safety standard for equipment consisting of air-inflated membrane structure is required especially regarding the weight and the number of adults playing with children.
INTEGRATED INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR SOLVING TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS AND PREVENTION AT BAN PHAI DISTRICT, KHON KAEN, THAILAND
Authors: Bamrung A , Kijlerdpornpairoj J , Jongsomchai A
Published: October 2012

Background

Traffic accident has been a major cause of death and injuries at Ban Phai district, Khon Kaen and the incidence has shown an increasing trend. Accidents and injuries were collected and reported separately by each responsible agency. Case investigations for causes of accident were overlook.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

To manage traffic accident data and solve problems by using an integrated data management approach by an interdisciplinary team.

Methods

A multidisciplinary team consists of representatives of the hospital, the police station, public transportation, the highway department and local volunteer rescue team was formed. The team analysed all 55 fatal traffic accidents causing deaths and serious injuries that were documented at police station, district hospital and rescue team during August 2009–July 2010 which consists of various forms such as injury surveillance record, pictures and videos to identify causes and ways to prevent re-occurrence of traffic accidents case by case. Problem solving actions were identified and undertaken immediately as a result of a concerted effort of the team

Results/Outcomes

Major causes of traffic accidents were miss-driving behaviour (72.73%), environmental (15.58%), roads (10.39%). Two major black spots on highway were identified and corrections were undertaken with participation of the community. Information was used to create awareness among the district authorities and local government office.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

This project helped reduce traffic accidents by 25% and enhance community participation. Lessons learned can be extended to other districts.
PREVENTING FALLS IN UNDER FIVES – A TEN-YEAR LONG INTERVENTION IN TARANAKI
Authors: Forde K , Pollard E
Published: October 2012

Background

Unintentional injuries account for 2500-3000 hospitalisations of children each year in New Zealand. Falls are the leading cause of injury hospitalisation of children under five. The Kidsafe Taranaki Trust has been working since the early 1990s to reduce unintentional injuries to children in Taranaki and has implemented a range of falls prevention interventions during that time.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

The most sustained effort is a project to deliver falls prevention information to groups of parents and caregivers. Successfully piloted in 2002 and expanded the following year with the addition of a Kaupapa Maori strategy, it aims to increase caregivers' awareness of the changing risks associated with the different developmental milestones in the pre-school years and provide advice and samples of appropriate safety devices while emphasising the importance of active supervision.

Methods

The approach is based on safety literature and the combined strategies have now been delivered to 3,000 families in Taranaki over the last ten years.

Results/Outcomes

Evaluation of the programme has been ongoing and continues to demonstrate this project is having a positive impact on participants' awareness and knowledge of key causes of falls injuries and prevention strategies. More importantly, it is shown to have influenced positive changes in the quality of supervision and the safety of the home environment.

Significance/Contribution to the field

Taranaki data demonstrates a marked downward trend in fall-related injury rates to under-fives which is more pronounced than the gradually decreasing trend for New Zealand as a whole.
ACTING IN THE COMMUNITY INTEREST: A SUSTAINABLE NGO THEATRE-IN-EDUCATION MODEL FOR DELIVERING CHILD SAFETY EDUCATION IN SCHOOLS
Authors: Gribble D
Published: October 2012

Background

Constable Care Child Safety Foundation delivers performance-education programmes to children aged 2–13 years in primary schools and early learning centres throughout metropolitan, regional and remote Western Australia, a 2.5 million sq km area 3.5 times the size of Texas. Covering issues in child safety, crime prevention and citizenship, the organisation works with over 150 000 children each year in a joint government and community funded early intervention programme aimed at increasing knowledge and changing attitudes and behaviours. Over its 23 year history the organisation has provided theatre-in-education programmes for over 2 million children, including children in very remote indigenous communities in Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

Purpose

Education research supports the effectiveness of theatre-in-education as a tool for teaching children about personal safety issues. Delivering protective behaviours, road safety and violence prevention interactive programmes, the organisation invests in best-practice approaches to content development, performance methodology and outcome measurement.

Method

Constable Care's sustainable funding model mixes national, state and local government recurrent and project funding with corporate sponsorship, philanthropic donations and fee for service activity. Educational themes are determined by schools and local government partners through ongoing consultation processes, with local safety and school issues given priority. A mix of puppet theatre, drama and interactive question and answer sessions cater for younger and older learners.

Outcome

Over time the organisation has amassed a database of teacher feedback in relation to the perceived efficacy of the programme. Data indicates that teachers view the programme as being of considerable value in raising children's awareness of safety issues. In 2011 the organisation formed a research partnership with a WA university to design and collect ongoing pre–post survey data from participant children to evaluate changes in knowledge, attitude and behavioural intent. Initial findings from this process, although still in its early stages, indicate that the programme has impact for the children involved.

Significance

The Constable Care model demonstrates a sustainable government-community-NGO partnership that delivers effective and evaluated child safety theatre-in-education programmes responsive to changing local community safety priorities and school needs.
REDUCING CHILD INJURY: EVALUATION OF INTERVENTIONS TARGETING CHILDREN AND THE ADULTS WHO SUPERVISE THEM
Authors: Schwebel DC
Published: October 2012

Background

Unintentional injury is a leading cause of paediatric mortality worldwide. Behavioural strategies hold promise for prevention. Although behavioural strategies targeting children—primarily by changing children's behaviours or decisions—are logical, strategies targeting adult supervision of children also show promise.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

Discuss behavioural research evaluating two child injury prevention strategies targeting children—safety with pet dogs and pedestrian safety—plus two strategies targeting adult supervisors—safety on preschool playgrounds and safety at swimming pools.

Methods

Four studies, each using experimental pre–post designs, will be presented. Two studies included control groups. Multi-informant strategies (observational, behavioural, self-report) assessed child and adult behaviour pre- and post-intervention.

Results/Outcome

All interventions showed promise. For example,The Blue Dogsoftware, to teach children ages 3–6 about safety with pet dogs, yielded improved recognition of dangerous activities with dogs (F=4.17, p<0.05, but not improved behaviour). Similarly, a behavioural intervention targeting adult lifeguards improved lifeguard surveillance (x2(2)=8.53, p<0.01) and reduced swimmers' risky behaviours (x2(2)=10.63, p<0.01).

Significance/Contribution to the Field

Human behaviour is difficult to change, so behavioural interventionists must be creative, thorough, and persistent. Changing children's behaviours can prove difficult given developmental limitations of children's thinking and behaviour patterns. Adult behaviour may be more amenable to change, but is notoriously challenging given the power of long-standing behavioural habits. These data reinforce the promise of behavioural interventions to reduce paediatric injuries, as well as the challenges our field faces to develop creative, effective interventions targeting the multiple factors relevant to reducing child injury risk.
EVALUATION OF COMMUNITY POLICING MODEL USED IN UNITED NATIONS AND AFRICAN UNION PEACEKEEPING MISSION IN DARFUR
Authors: Khoso AK
Published: October 2012

Objective

To carry out evaluation of Community Policing of United Nations and African Union Mission in Darfur(UNAMID) to assess its efficiency in establishing link between Internally Displaced People (IDPs) and GoS and Movement Police.

Methods

Based on information collected from field observations, key informant interviews, and review of official documents, this note firstly describes components and mechanism. Then the mechanism for effective evaluation will be devised based upon overall goals.

Results

Community policing in conflicted Darfur Sudan is an effective tools in improving policing standards and involvement of community in controlling crime and violence in IDP camps. Evaluation mechanism based upon mandate and over all goals can be helpful in improving the system.

Conclusions

There is greater need for improvement of Community Policing in conflicted areas to improve human rights standard by means of effective linkage between Police and IDPS and capacity building of Police.
BROKERING INFORMATION TO SUPPORT FAMILY VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION EFFORTS IN NEW ZEALAND
Authors: Fanslow J , Dixon R , Paton N , Richards G , Gulliver P
Published: October 2012

Background

Access to high quality information is an essential feature of evidence informed practice in family violence prevention and intervention work.

Aim

The New Zealand Family Violence Clearinghouse is the national centre for collating and disseminating information about domestic and family violence in Aotearoa.

Methods

Collection takes place through review of international websites, scans of the academic literature, and outreach with NZ & international academics and practitioners. Collation and dissemination takes place through the NZFVC Library (electronic and physical), a monthly newsletter, customised searches by the information specialist and the production and publication of fact sheets, and issues papers. Active community engagement helps to identify common information needs across the sector.

Results

Information dissemination: In the period 11/10/12–20/2/12 the website had 12 395 visits by 8262 unique visitors from 109 countries (83% from NZ). The newsletter is distributed to 1460 people, with the mailing list growing by 567 in 6 months. Two issues papers and multiple factsheets have been produced.

Community engagement includes developing and maintaining active relationships with a wide range of practitioners, policy makers, and researchers through attendance at community and national hui, speaking at events, individual meetings, phone and email contact.

Significance

The Clearinghouse contributes to the family violence sector in NZ by acting as an information hub. By serving a wide audience, we play a significant role in identifying high quality information, making it accessible, ‘funnelling’ information to those who need it, identifying information gaps, and actively strategising on ways to meet these needs.
VIOLENCE INTERVENTION PROGRAMME (VIP); IMPROVING NEW ZEALAND'S HEALTH SYSTEM RESPONSE TO FAMILY VIOLENCE
Authors: Koziol-McLain J , Ritchie M , Zimmerman S
Published: October 2012

Background

The New Zealand Violence Intervention Programme (VIP) seeks to reduce and prevent health impacts of violence and abuse through early identification, assessment and referral of victims presenting to health services. The programme is premised on standardised system models of organisational change and reflects an indigenous whanau ora approach. Programme components include national guidelines, coordinators, technical advice, national networking, training, resources and evaluation.

Aim

To describe the respective contributions of funders, national programme manager and researcher to the achievements of VIP within the health sector.

Methods

National programme management and evaluation focuses on a coordinated approach to quality improvement. An external evaluation monitored development of VIP from 2004–2011 in 20 District Health Boards. The evaluation applied partner abuse (PA) and child abuse and neglect (CAN) programme audit tools measuring system indicators.

Results

VIP scores increased incrementally over the six audit periods. Median audit score (possible range 0 to 100) increased from 20 to 74 for responsiveness to PA and from 37 to 81 for responsiveness to CAN. At the most recent audit (2011), 17 DHBs (85%) achieved the benchmark target score (>70) in both PA and CAN programmes, exceeding Ministry of Health expectations.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

Longitudinal evaluations of national PA and CAN intervention programmes in health are limited. VIP design and external evaluation results provide evidence to guide future programme development. Recommended areas include transitioning programme evaluation from indicator compliance to a culture of continuous performance improvement and increasing provision of service delivery to families at risk.
INCREASING ROUTINE VITAMIN D PRESCRIPTION TO AGED CARE RESIDENTS IN NEW ZEALAND: GIVING RESIDENTS THE D-FENCE AGAINST FALLS
Authors: Willaims M
Published: October 2012

Background

Vitamin D supplements have been shown to reduce the number of falls in older adults living in aged residential care facilities. However, in New Zealand only 16% of aged care residents were being prescribed vitamin D in 2007.

Aim

To encourage increased prescription of vitamin D to residents in aged care facilities throughout New Zealand.

Method

The Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) led the development and phased national rollout of a robust education programme. ACC facilitated the formation of a Specialist Advisory Group of lead clinicians and researchers. This group developed a vitamin D prescribing guideline for General Practitioners, based on the available literature and clinical best practice.

An educational programme was developed to increase awareness and encourage routine prescription of vitamin D. ACC partnered with District Health Boards and worked collaboratively to disseminate the education programme to General Practitioners, facility staff, aged care residents and pharmacists. Rollout was phased over a 3 year period and by 2011- national coverage was achieved.

Results

Vitamin D uptake was monitored quarterly by matching the National Health Index numbers of residents with National Health Index numbers of paid pharmacy claims for Vitamin D preparations.

Once the education programme had been delivered throughout the country, vitamin D prescribing had increased to 66%.

Significance

The findings to date suggest the national rollout of an educational programme that includes a prescribing guideline can increase prescription of vitamin D to residents.
COST OF FALLS INJURY HOSPITALISATIONS IN OLDER ADULTS: FOCUS ON AGE, SEX, AND AREA OF RESIDENCE
Authors: Johnson S
Published: October 2012

Background

Falls are common among older adults around the world. Several complex risk factors contribute to falls and many promising and proven falls prevention strategies have been reported in the literature. While the cost of falls have been examined, the variation in costs based on age, sex and area of residence such as rural and urban settings have not been examined.

Purpose

This study was carried out to assess the direct cost of falls injury hospitalisations in older residents aged 65+ years (seniors) and their implications on health care delivery in the growing seniors population in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan.

Methods

We performed descriptive and statistical analyses on hospital records of seniors hospitalised with fall injury diagnoses from 1995/96 to 2004/05. We derived the direct cost using length of stay (LOS), resource intensity weight (RIW) and average cost of acute care (COST) for each year. The costs were calculated for different age groups (65–74, 75–84, 85+), sex (male, female), and area of residence at time of injury (rural, urban, and north).

Results

A total of 30 757 fall injury hospitalisations were recorded over a 10-year period. In addition, the fall injury hospitalisation rate varied with higher rates with advancing age, female gender, and rural location of residence. The average (±SE) 10-year RIW, LOS and COST were 2.13 (±0.02), 13.66 (±0.23) days and $6088 (±61.88), respectively. We observed statistically significant differences (p<0.01) in the RIW and COST of hospitalisations across the 10 years, both sexes, age groups and 13 health regions in the province. All of these factors except sex were significant (p<0.01) for the LOS. Males had slightly higher LOS and COST than females, while both LOS and COST increased with advancing age. Significant decline in LOS and COST occurred over the 10-year period. Both LOS and COST in the cases who died in hospital were more than double the values in those who survived. The COST was higher in cosmopolitan urban and Northern areas of the province as compared to other urban and rural areas.

Significance and Contribution to the Field

An increasing trend in burden of direct health care costs associated with falls injury hospitalisation among Saskatchewan senior residents is evident. This would have implications in planning and budgeting for future health care needs of the growing population of seniors in the province and particularly in the heavily impacted regions and areas.
PARENTING INTERVENTIONS TO PREVENT UNINTENTIONAL INJURY: UPDATE AND EXTENSION OF A COCHRANE SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Kendrick D , Mulvaney C , Stevens T , Mytton J , Ye L , Stewart-Brown S
Published: October 2012

Background

Parenting programmes can improve behaviour problems in childhood; improve maternal psychosocial health and a range of health outcomes for teenage mothers and their children. Our previous Cochrane review showed parenting programmes can reduce childhood injuries and we now update that review and explore characteristics of programmes that are associated with effectiveness.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

To evaluate the effect of parenting programmes on reducing childhood injury and improving safety practices and behaviours and to explore characteristics of programmes that are more and less effective.

Methods

Systematic review using Cochrane methodology. We included RCTs, non-RCTs, quasi-RCTs and controlled-before-and-after studies, providing individual or group based parenting interventions to parents of children aged≤18 years which reported injuries, safety equipment, safety behaviours, safety practices or composite scores with a home safety dimension (eg, HOME score). Random effects meta analysis was used to estimate risk ratios and 95% CI. Sub group analyses and meta regressions will explore associations between programme characteristics and effectiveness.

Results/Outcome

22 studies were included, 16 of which were RCTs. Parenting interventions significantly reduced injuries in RCTs (10 trials; RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.73 to 0.94; I2=2%). A similar effect size was seen in studies of all designs (14 studies; RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.74 to 0.91; I2=0%). Findings from sub group analyses and meta-regressions will be presented.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

Parenting interventions reduce childhood injuries, but some programmes may be more effective than others. Characteristics of effective programmes will be discussed.
TRENDS IN HIP FRACTURE INCIDENCE RATES AMONG ELDERLY IN SWEDEN 1987–2009
Authors: Nilson F , Moniruzzaman S , Gustavsson J , Andersson R
Published: October 2012

Background

Falls are the most common cause of injury related hospital admission among elderly in Sweden and with an ageing population fears have been raised that fall-related admissions will increase, with large societal costs as a result. Hip fractures are the most common type of hospitalised, fall-related injuries.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

Previous studies in Sweden have shown large increases in hip fracture incidence rates. International research, however, suggests a levelling off, or decline, of hip fracture incidence rates though for Sweden this remains to be studied.

Method

Data was obtained regarding hip fractures among individuals 65 years and above from 1987 to 2009. Age and sex specific trends in hip fracture rates per 100 000 and mean age when sustaining a hip fracture were analysed. Secondly, annual percentage change (APC) was used to compare time periods that helped to quantify changes in secular trends.

Results/Outcomes

The absolute number of hip fractures among elderly in Sweden has largely remained constant between 1987 and 2009 while incidence rates have decreased for all age and sex specific groups, with the largest changes in the younger age groups and among women. The mean age of sustaining a hip fracture has increased for both men and women.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

This study supports other international studies in showing a decrease in hip fracture incidence rates among elderly, especially since the mid 1990s. The causes behind this decrease are most likely a combination of healthier individuals with improved functional ability and increased BMI rather than national programmes or osteoporosis management.
CAN THE FEELING OF BEING SAFE BE DANGEROUS?
Authors: Hart G
Published: October 2012

Background

Despite great advances in safety, many people continue to come to preventable harm. It is possible that we may be investing too much effort in creating a FEELING of being safe rather than actually BEING safe. We often encounter goal-oriented language that says ‘people should be free of fear.’ Yet it is this sense of vulnerability that can keep us safest. Have we created environments that have counter intuitively increased risk while at the same time diminishing the feeling of risk?

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

How can we make the best use of our feelings of natural risk (perhaps through a common set of principles) and calibrate the environments we design to get the best possible result—maximum safety? Can we improve people's sense of appropriate vulnerability so they have better control over their risks and are less likely to come to harm?

Methods

A number of interactions were studied including traffic, workplace, home, sporting safety and suicide prevention. Contexts from hunter-gatherer societies to rural settings and on to modern urban environments were considered. Common principles were selected and analysed in each scenario.

Results/Outcome

A set of common, testable principles including factors like proximity, familiarity, distraction and others were uncovered that could be employed in tuning feelings of risk in different contexts to lower the likelihood of harm occurring.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

Developing and employing this approach will generate more precise calibrations of natural risk so that contexts can be designed to illicit safer outcomes while sharpening people's sense of risk.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF WORK
Authors: O'Connor P
Published: October 2012

Background

Employers can contribute to a stronger economy by ensuring their people are not harmed at work.

Purpose

Business leaders need to give high priority to prevention and early intervention. Leaders that embrace the health benefits of work are setting the right ‘tone at the top’ to tackle the challenges to a life in work.

Methods

Strategic planning and leadership engagement that focus on the health benefits of work.

Outcome

Getting work health and safety right delivers improved productivity, improves workforce participation and increases social inclusion.

Significance to the Field

It adds public health as a dimension to the prevention levers in work health and safety.

The longer a period of absence from the workplace due to ill health, the less likely it becomes that a worker will ever return. After 20 days absence the likelihood of ultimate return is only 70%; after 70 days this declines to only 35%.1Unemployment is implicated in a range of psychological problems which in turn often has adverse consequences for physical health. The costs of the resulting social exclusion are high for both society and the individual.

Continuing in employment can impact outcomes positively, but an important qualifying factor is that the work must be meaningful—if not, pre-existing problems can be magnified. Work stressors can also be the cause of mental health problems, so finding suitable work for a person with mental health problems is often complex; they are therefore more likely to be out of work and for longer, which can lead to a self-fulfilling downward spiral.

Early intervention is acknowledged to be key to limiting this risk. Where there is no definitive need for absence from the workplace and the appropriate accommodations can be made to permit continuing attendance or early return, this should be promoted as the accepted approach. This will require enhanced education for healthcare professionals, through professional leadership to encourage change in unhelpful beliefs about work and health. Employers can contribute by providing supportive workplaces, leadership and training and good case management. Evidence based policy support by government will underpin these changes, along with public education campaigns to raise awareness that work is good for people.

1. Johnson D, Fry T.Factors affecting return to work after injury: a study for the victorian work cover authority. Melbourne: Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, 2002.
LEADERSHIP AND CULTURE UNDER THE AUSTRALIAN WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY STRATEGY 2012–2022
Authors: Hoy R , Grey A
Published: October 2012

Background

Leadership, and organisational and community culture are significant ‘new’ entries into the second national Australian strategy for work health and safety:The Australian Work Health and Safety Strategy 2012–1222(the Strategy). The absence of attention on leadership and culture in the previous Strategy was assessed as a potential barrier to achievement of targets. The Strategy aims to improve work health and safety outcomes through communities and their leaders being proactive in driving work health and safety improvements; through leaders in organisations taking a collaborative and consultative approach; and by raising the priority of health and safety in all work decisions and processes.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

Culture and leadership were included as a key action area in the Strategy in order to raise awareness of health and safety and create a supportive context to improve workplace outcomes.

Safe Work Australia conducted national consultation workshops during 2011 and commissioned three papers by leading academics on these topics.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

The Strategy requires outcomes associated with leadership and culture that will ensure national attention is paid to these over the next 10 years.

The inclusion of organisational and community culture and leadership in the Strategy will raise these issues at a national level. The evidence-based approach taken by Safe Work Australia will ensure that the focus of leadership and culture results in improved systematic management of risks, and improved health and safety outcomes.
BENCHMARKING AUSTRALIAN CHILDREN'S SWIMMING AND WATER SAFETY SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE: CHALLENGES AND LESSONS LEARNT
Authors: Peden A , Franklin R
Published: October 2012

Background

Royal Life Saving Society—Australia has undertaken a research programme into the swimming and water safety (S&WS) skills and knowledge of Australian children.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

The research sought to describe participation rates, achievement levels against the National Swimming and Water Safety Framework (NSWSF), gaps in provision and barriers to accessing S&WS education among primary school aged children.

Methods

This research involved several discrete investigations including: survey of schools, survey of swimming and water safety teachers, analysis of participation and performance data from school and vocational based programmes, web based knowledge quiz development and testing of children.

Results/Outcome

Achievement of the S&WS standard set in the NSWSF is achievable but varied (68.6% in Tasmania to 8.8% in South Australia). Indigenous children and children born outside Australia were less likely to achieve the benchmark. Indigenous children, children from rural and remote areas and children with a greater socio-economic disadvantage were underrepresented in those participating in S&WS education.

Challenges identified in benchmarking children's S&WS skills and knowledge included: difficulty in comparing programmes due to the diversity in provision; sampling; age at which to test; and access to children (particularly those not currently participating).

Significance/Contribution to the Field

There is a need to ensure that the limited public resources for swimming and water safety are used effectively, in this case to ensure that children are equipped with the skills and knowledge to keep themselves safe in, on, and around water. This research is the first of its kind in Australia and has changed how we are addressing S&WS.
EFFECTIVE PRACTICE: AN IMMEDIATE COLLABORATIVE RESPONSE TO PREVENT FURTHER NET FISHING DROWNING AMONG PACIFIC PEOPLES
Authors: Harrop S , Aonga H
Published: October 2012

Background

Recreational fishing often provides a valuable and relatively cheap food source for many Pacific families. While land- and boat-based fishing in New Zealand have benefitted from safety interventions in recent years, the practice of net fishing at beach and harbours has not. Net fishing in New Zealand waters is often more dangerous than those waters in the Pacific Islands and some Pacific Island net fishing methods are inappropriate here. In response to five Pacific drowning fatalities related to net fishing off Auckland's dangerous west coast beaches in October 2011, WaterSafe Auckland called a meeting of key stakeholders and instigated a collaborative project to address safety issues surrounding these fatalities.

Methods

Key partners Surf Life Saving, Auckland Council, Pasifika Injury Prevention Aukilana (PIPA), ACC, the Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs, Pacific Island Advisory Panel, community net fishing expert and WaterSafe Auckland agreed to initiate a collaborative project with key short term outcomes for the 2011/2012 summer season.

Results

Water safety education for net fishing was developed and delivered via a number of channels including Pacific and mainstream media, Pacific events and Church ministers. Ministers were requested to highlight and promote safe net fishing practices and the use of lifejackets. Lifejackets were given to Ministers to wear and distribute at their discretion. The results will be evaluated and used to make recommendations for an ongoing project.

Conclusions

By working collaboratively, key partners can utilise their expertise quickly and effectively to address death by drowning for specific target activities and communities.