bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CBT-based self-help for anxiety disorders
Authors: Hawkins Margaret
Published: May 2014

Since 1990 No Panic has been offering support to people with anxiety disorders. Margaret Hawkins describes the charity's approach to self-help and recovery and outlines the disorder
Vitamin D is more essential than ever
Authors: Beary Michael
Published: May 2014

Michael Beary explains the importance of vitamin D, and shares his advice on how to avoid the risks and complications associated with vitamin D deficiency
Body in mind training: mindful movement for severe and enduring mental illness
Authors: Russell Tamara
Published: May 2014

The discipline of mindfulness has inspired a new programme for individuals with severe mental health difficulties. Tamara Russell introduces Body in Mind Training
CBT for command hallucinations: exploring a new approach
Authors: Aston Robert
Published: May 2014

This article explores an alternate approach to working with clients who experience command hallucinations. It will provide information regarding the current limitations of a pure cognitive behavioural therapy approach, current clinical uncertainty as to what works well with clients who experience command hallucinations and what research has been revealed concerning an alternate approach. It will discuss how focusing on control and power can enable clients to change their relationship with their voices and in turn reduce compliant behaviour. The concurrent larger multi-centre trial will be discussed, as will its purpose, client views and future directions.
Understanding why people smoke and helping them to stop
Authors: McRobbie Hayden , Myers Katie
Published: May 2014

Overview

This article describes smoking and smoking cessation. It examines the issue of tobacco dependence as well as common aids to smoking cessation. The article includes some self-assessment to test the reader’s knowledge.
It’s time to rethink our thinking about mental health problems
Authors: Lakeman Richard
Published: May 2014

Richard Lakeman questions perceptions of mental illness and our reliance on medication
Buddy: a digital mental wellbeing service
Authors: Treanor Aisling , Harris Katie , Abrar Adil , Carson Jerome
Published: May 2014

Aisling Treanor, Katie Harris, Adil Abrar and Jerome Carson discuss the development of an innovative digital service that supports the recovery of people with mental health conditions
HPV: a dilemma for nurses?
Authors: Allen Betsy
Published: May 2014

Following the debate at the recent annual School and Public Health Nurses Association (SAPHNA) conference about the Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, Betsy Allen further explores the ethical dilemmas raised.
Scoliosis: To screen or not to screen
Authors: Hume Katrina
Published: May 2014

School screening programmes for scoliosis are a controversial issue, with Japan being the only country to make it mandatory. Scoliosis progresses rapidly during the adolescent growth spurt, meaning school nurses would be in an ideal position to spot these skeletal changes.
Recognizing childhood obesity: The role of the school nurse
Authors: Stewart Laura
Published: May 2014

The challenge of tackling childhood obesity in the UK has now been incorporated into government policy. The school nurse is often the first point of contact for parents in concerns over a child’s weight. It is essential that they have the correct knowledge and skills to feel confident to undertake this task.
Keep school nurses on the children’s policy agenda
Authors: Stansfield Karen , Wakefield Susan , Day Pat
Published: May 2014

School nurses have largely disappeared from recent statements of national children’s policy. To refocus attention on their important role in improving children’s health, school nurses need to understand and engage with the policy agenda.
Parental mental illness: Effects on young carers
Authors: Obadina Seye
Published: May 2014

Seye Obadina looks at the importance of identifying young carers of parents with mental illness, and to offer them and their family adequate support.
Creating an optimum environment for learning
Authors: Sherwin Sarah , Stevenson Liz
Published: May 2014

The role of the practice teacher is pivotal in supporting the development of students undertaking Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) approved Specialist Community Public Health (SCPHN), School Nursing programmes. It is a mandatory requirement that students of school nursing are supported and assessed by a named practice teacher, who must have met the requirements defined within the practice teacher standard (NMC, 2008).

In this series of short papers, Sarah Sherwin and Liz Stevenson explore the developing role of the practice teacher in relation to school nursing, since the advent of the revised standards. Although specifically geared towards practice teachers within the school nursing arena, mentors who provide support to a range of students within the community health setting may also find the series useful.
Behaviour management in the classroom
Authors: Faber Krista
Published: May 2014

This month Krista Faber looks at some ideas to help school nurses manage the behaviour of pupils or students in their PSHE sessions.
SAPHNA NEWS – The Department of Health School Nurse Development Programme
Authors: White Sharon , Upson Elaine
Published: May 2014

SAPHNA: Raising the Profile of School and Public Health Nurses

SAPHNA is a professional organisation dedicated to the promotion of excellence in children and young people's health services. SAPHNA was formed by a group of experienced school and public health nurses from around the UK who share a vision to improve services and take forward the public health agenda. SAPHNA represents school and public health nurses providing a voice locally, nationally and internationally.

New members are encouraged to sign up to SAPHNA This is free of charge!

Members of SAPHNA are kept regularly updated with policy, resources and learning opportunities throughout the UK.

Sign up via www.SAPHNA-professionals.org

[Figure: see text]
Protecting pupils from female genital mutilation
Authors: Momoh Comfort
Published: May 2014

Female genital mutilation (FGM) presents important risks to the physical and mental health and wellbeing of girls and women affected. The practice of FGM is still an issue in the UK depite being despite being illegal.

School nurses can play an important role in raising awareness on the subject, protecting at-risk girls and young women, and offer them the support they need.

This article looks at the types of FGM, their risks, and the role school nurses can play in raising awareness.
Dry and Mighty campaign to conquer childhood bedwetting
Authors: Perez Jenny
Published: May 2014

Bedwetting has been estimated to affect over 500 000 children and young people in the UK. Jenny Perez, Director of ERIC, looks at parents’ current thoughts on bedwetting and the information and support available to children and young people, parents and professionals.
Experiences and training in delivering sexual health care
Authors: Thurston Chris , Walker Susan
Published: May 2014

This paper reports a study of the involvement of school nurses, in one primary care trust (PCT) in England, in sex and relationships education (SRE) and service provision. It explores the training they have received and their preferences for the format and content of future training. A total of 17 of the 19 nurses surveyed had direct involvement in the delivery of sexual health care or SRE to young people. Almost no education in sexual issues was reported in pre-registration training. Most had received post-registration education or training in sexual health. School nurses favoured short workshops over longer credit-bearing courses. Time constraints were identified as an obstacle to training. Social, ethical, legal and religious issues, gender inequality and sexual assault were areas in which a need for more training was identified.
Effective treatment of Pediculus humanus capitis
Authors: White Sharon
Published: May 2014

A new survey has revealed that 41% of children under 16 years have suffered an infestation of head lice over the last 3 years. This article looks at the detection and treatment of Pediculus humanus capitis.
FOCUS ON: HPV immunisation programme
Authors: Davies Elaine
Published: May 2014

SAPHNA: Raising the Profile of School and Public Health Nurses

SAPHNA is a professional organisation dedicated to the promotion of excellence in children and young people's health services. SAPHNA was formed by a group of experienced school and public health nurses from around the UK who share a vision to improve services and take forward the public health agenda. SAPHNA represents school and public health nurses providing a voice locally, nationally and internationally.

New members are encouraged to sign up to SAPHNA This is free of charge!

Members of SAPHNA are kept regularly updated with policy, resources and learning opportunities throughout the UK.

Sign up via www.SAPHNA-professionals.org

[Figure: see text]
Measuring the effectiveness of school nursing interventions: A review of outcome tools
Authors: Forward Catherine
Published: May 2014

It is crucial that school nurses are able to demonstrate the effectiveness of their service. This article reviews the literature on outcome tools used in the community and by services working with children and young people. The main questions considered are: What does measuring outcomes consist of and why measure, what should school nursing be measuring and what is the best way to measure the service? The suitability of existing outcome tools to measure the effectiveness of the school nursing service are examined along with recommendations for future practice.
Boys should be included in the HPV vaccination programme
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: May 2014

School nurses play a crucial role in the implementation of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme, Ian Peate explains why eligibility should be extended to boys.
Addressing low clinic attendance by making them school-based
Authors: Ogilvie Dawn , Mayhew Ruth
Published: May 2014

Making clinics more accessible can have a significant impact on attendance and service efficiency. In this article, the authors share some of the steps and outcomes experienced by the school nursing team in the process of setting up school-based clinics.
School food: Double standards as academies escape guidelines
Authors: Hargadon Judy
Published: May 2014

The implementation of national school food standards have largely contributed to the provision of healthier school meals. However, academies are not bound by those guidelines and some have recently said that they chose not to follow them.
Tackling the growing issue of cyber-bullying in schools
Authors: Emery Hilary
Published: May 2014

Anti-Bullying Week 2013 has shone a spotlight on the endemic problems we face with cyber-bullying and keeping pupils safe online. Dr Hilary Emery argues that if we do not act, we face the issue taking epidemic proportions and calls for a national debate on the topic.
Resources and information to help support bereaved families
Authors: Forward Catherine
Published: May 2014

This new series of articles aims to gather a number of resources on specific themes relevant to school nursing practice. This month, Catherine Forward looks at bereavement.
Choosing the right method for a qualitative study
Authors: Farrelly Penny
Published: May 2014

In this fourth article of a series on research, Penny Farrelly looks at qualitative research approaches and data collection methods, including focus groups, interviews and case studies.
Fungal infection of the skin, part 2: Cutaneous candida
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

It is important that school nurses are able to recognise common dermatological conditions to be able to support and advise children and young people and refer them when appropriate. Some dermatological conditions can also be the sign of a more severe underlying condition or can worsen if left untreated.

This article is the second of a two part series, offering practical information on common fungal skin infections, including an overview of presentation, complications and management.

It looks at cutaneous candida infections, including oral thrush, intertrigo, vulvovaginal candida, balanitis and nail infections.
Idiopathic scoliosis: An overview for school and paediatric nurses
Authors: Mahmoud Rewan , Krause-Parello Cheryl A
Published: May 2014

Scoliosis is a medical condition in which a spinal defect is characterized by an abnormal curvature of various degrees, in an S or C shape (Kaushik et al, 2008). Individuals with family members diagnosed with scoliosis have a 20% chance of being diagnosed as well. This article looks at the potential physical and psychological impact of a scoliosis diagnosis. It aims to provide paediatric and school nurses with an overview of the condition, including its history, aetiology, symptoms, screening and diagnosis, common myths, and treatment.
Sharing best practice across borders: A conference report
Authors: Rollings Jean , Hagues Jenny
Published: May 2014

Jean Rollings and Jenny Hagues share their account and experiences of the 17th Biennial School Nurses International Conference, which was hosted in Ljubljana, Slovenia, from the 22nd to the 26th of July 2013.
Ensuring that schools have a bereavement policy in place
Authors: Butler Heather
Published: May 2014

When a bereavement affects a child or young person, it is vital for schools to act quickly and appropriately. Heather Butler provides advice on how both staff and pupils can be supported at these difficult times.
Information on dealing with challenging behaviour
Authors: Forward Catherine
Published: May 2014

This series of articles aims to gather a number of resources on specific themes relevant to school nursing practice. This month, Catherine Forward looks at challenging behaviour.
Could this child have a brain tumour? Signs and symptoms
Authors: Wilne Sophie H , Walker DA
Published: May 2014

Each week, ten children and young people in the UK are diagnosed with a brain tumour. Early diagnosis improves long-term outcomes. It is therefore important that school nurses are aware of the signs and symptoms of brain tumours and are able to make early referrals, as well as raise awareness among other professionals and the wider community. This article looks at the signs and symptoms of brain tumours in children and young people, and diagnosis.
Cochlear implants in adults: the role of the speech and language therapist
Authors: Thomas Julie
Published: May 2014

This article gives a personal perspective of developing an assessment and rehabilitation programme for adults with an acquired profound hearing loss, before the government-funded study of cochlear implants was set up in 1990. These adults were trained to gain maximum benefit from a conventional hearing aid or a vibroactile aid, this area of expertise being based on articles in the further reading section. This was extended to include assessment for suitability for a cochlear implant and for rehabilitation following implantation, the general approaches being very similar.
Clinical practice for best effect
Authors: Jackson Joanna , Rushton Alison
Published: May 2014

Eastbourne hosted the 1996 congress of the World Confederation of Physical Therapy – Europe; the theme for the 4days was ‘Physiotherapy for Best Effect’. Five hundred and fifty delegates from all over Europe and beyond gathered to listen to topics ranging from the importance of research in identifying effective physiotherapy treatments to discussion sessions on current ‘hot topics’. These included motivation and morale in the workplace, continuing professional development and clinical education. Lectures, workshops, poster presentations and debates promoted discussions that were wide and varied. Although this was a conference primarily for physiotherapists, the issues addressed were core to all health professions working in today's climate where the relationship between the purchaser and provider requires evidence about the effectiveness of practice.
A comparative analysis of the incidence of overuse knee injuries in triathletes, runners and cyclists
Authors: Bailey Martin , Dew Maggie , Moore Anne
Published: May 2014

There have been conflicting suggestions about the injury risk to triathletes compared with athletes who participate solely in cycling or running. This article gives the results of a study which used a questionnaire to compare the risk of overuse knee injury in triathletes with the risk to matched groups of cyclists and runners.
Therapeutic computer software for occupational therapy: ways forward
Authors: Seale Jane K
Published: May 2014

A major obstruction to effective computer use with clients is a lack of therapeutically appropriate software. Attempts to obtain appropriate software include employing computer programmers or using authoring tools, both of which have problems that need to be overcome.
A multiprofessional approach to the treatment of developmental coordination disorder
Authors: Addy Lois M
Published: May 2014

The development of motor coordination is an area in which many children experience difficulty. This paper describes a three-fold therapeutic programme which serves to enhance the motor skills of children with motor dyspraxia, now termed developmental coordination disorder. It demonstrates how professionals working together can contribute constructively to improving motor skills and how this intervention can be measured in order to ensure that these children receive a quality, effective service.
Evidence-based practice and creative therapies: is it possible and do we need it?
Authors: Hosea Hilary
Published: May 2014

Dr Andrea Gilroy, an art therapist, educator and researcher from the Art Psychotherapy unit, University of London, Goldsmiths College, challenged the idea that quantitative research should be the dominant paradigm for research in the arts therapies. She acknowledged that in an age of dwindling resources, evaluating the efficacy of practice is important in order to give the best possible care to patients. She took issue, however, with the principles and assumptions of evidence-based medicine (EBM) and questioned their wholesale transfer to EBP in psychiatry, and hence to the arts therapies.
Clinical effectiveness in arts therapies in the mental health field
Authors: Odell-Miller Helen
Published: May 2014

This workshop was an action-orientated workshop, whose participants included occupational therapists, art therapists, music therapists, dramatherapists, and others. At the outset, Helen Odell-Miller stated that the aims would be:
Pull up a chair…
Authors: McKay Vincent J
Published: May 2014

Degree status for occupational therapy education has evolved over the last decade (Gape and Hewin, 1995).
The role of the wheelchair in the mobility chain
Authors: Cornwell Morigue , Kavanagh Jo
Published: May 2014

Every disabled and elderly person needs a means of independent mobility within the home, for short distances around the home and for longer distances, if they are to play as full a role as possible in society. The wheelchair, whether NHS provided or privately purchased, manual or powered, traditional shape or scooter styled, is often the vital but missing link in what would otherwise be an effective mobility chain. Therapists should be aware of the many permutations.
The physiology and pharmacology of pain
Authors: Morinan Alun
Published: May 2014

The physiological mechanisms involved in pain perception and their modulation by existing and novel analgesic drugs are described in this article.
The Physical Medicine Research Foundation
Authors: Tanner JA
Published: May 2014

There is no doubt that recent changes in the new health-care market have destabilized the world of musculoskeletal medicine and the climate in which many of us work.
Quantitative assessment of somatosensory function
Authors: Campbell Jackie , Lahuerta Juan , Bowsher David
Published: May 2014

Conventional clinical tests for neurological deficits can only detect gross changes in sensation. This article describes more sensitive methods that can be used to quantitatively assess eight sensory thresholds. Normative data for each threshold are provided which may be used to indicate neurological abnormality. These methods can also provide insights into the mechanisms of some neurological disorders and may suggest improved methods of therapy.
Assessment and management of constipation in a medical-elderly unit
Authors: George Lynn , Hayward Liz , Lowe Catherine , Page Steve
Published: May 2014

Around 20% of older people suffer from constipation. Recognition of this led the practice development unit to examine its practice in this area. A multidisciplinary project group was convened, which used the clinical audit cycle to develop practice related to a range of aspects of constipation assessment and management, and to examine and improve the knowledge base of staff involved.
Multifile rehabilitation database for Europe
Authors: Sandhu Jim Singh
Published: May 2014

Everyone is a consumer of goods and services. People make choices on which purchases to make and which services to access based on their knowledge of what is available. Digital information processing and communication technologies (telematics) allow new methods of information transfer (Roe, 1995). Telematics should change consumer behaviour and the structure of service providers by enabling information to be directly accessible to end users.
Dangerous images of disability
Authors: Scullion Philip
Published: May 2014

A recent case of two men in Coventry who apparently planned, with perverse and complex motivation, to pretend that one of them had severe mental and physical impairments, has recently been exposed as fraudulent. This case has deep significance for health-care professionals and all those involved in rehabilitation.
Ergonomic considerations when choosing a hoist and slings
Authors: Love Christine
Published: May 2014

The mobile domestic hoist offers a versatile and practicable solution to the management of physically dependent people who require lifting. Its function is, however, dependent upon its compatibility with the environment and patient need. This article draws attention to possible sources of mismatch which could prevent the hoist being used or reduce its efficiency.
Virtual reality in neurological rehabilitation
Authors: Rose FD , Johnson DA , Attree EA , Leadbetter AG , Andrews TK
Published: May 2014

Virtual reality (VR) is the computer technology underlying the latest generation of interactive computer games, but its uses go far beyond this. One very exciting area of potential application of VR is neurological rehabilitation. This article outlines four ways in which VR might be used: assessing neurological deficits, increasing patients' levels of interaction with their environments, specific retraining of impaired skills, and, in conjunction with other technologies, as a prosthetic mechanism.
Menopause: the Physical Medicine Research Foundation conference
Authors: O'Connor Jane M
Published: May 2014

As an osteopath one sees a high proportion of female patients, most of whom are in their 40s and 50s, who are openly concerned that their back pain could be the first signs of osteoporosis. The terms arthritis and osteoporosis have become almost synonymous in the public mind, thus these patients need informed advice.
Community occupational therapy in Hampshire: a review of developments in service provision
Authors: Winchcombe Maggie
Published: May 2014

Hampshire social services, one of the largest departments in the country, have been looking imaginatively at the delivery of occupational therapy services. A review of current practice looked at innovative approaches and considered how these could be developed and incorporated into the department's strategic plan. This article contributes to the essential debate on how services can move forward in the changing climate of community care.
Community care: a new golden age of care?
Authors: King Stan
Published: May 2014

In 1981, the government announced its commitment to the ‘new’ policy of community care for those with learning disabilities, mental health problems, physical handicaps and the elderly. This policy made the position that hospital care was bad and community care good — overtly a philosophical change, although some cynics suggested that it assumed, erroneously, that community care was less costly than institutional care and that all health activities are reducible to unit cost.
Assuring quality in rehabilitation and therapy services
Authors: Embling Shirley
Published: May 2014

Rehabilitation health-care professionals have always considered quality patient care to be of upmost importance, but today there is increasing pressure from purchasers to see such quality made explicit and assured. This article outlines some of the key components of the quality assurance strategy of a clinical directorate of rehabilitation and therapy services.
Interventions for post-traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Hall Gillian
Published: May 2014

In recent years the media has reported on many major disasters, both internationally and nationally. Whether a trauma is of national or personal significance, there are common features in all of them. Disasters remind people of their own vulnerability and mortality. Disruptions in personal coping mechanisms may require professional intervention. This article gives a description of post-traumatic stress disorder and discusses interventions which health-care professionals are currently using in the clinical setting.
Perceptual performance and handwriting quality in 6- and 7 year-olds with cerebral palsy
Authors: Stewart Caroline , Pratt Joanne , McFadyen Angus K
Published: May 2014

Handwriting is a fine motor task which appears to involve the integration of a number of skills that derive from sensory, motor and perceptual performance. This study of the relationship between perceptual and task performance found a strong association between perceptual ability and handwriting performance.
The Sunrise Medical PowerTec F60 Powerchair
Authors: Hill Glynis L
Published: May 2014

Improvements in the technology available for use in powered wheelchairs have allowed the development of more and more advanced powered wheelchairs. This article looks at the Sunrise Medical Powertec F60 Powerchair as an example of one of the newer wheelchairs.
A group programme to prevent falls in elderly hospital patients
Authors: Buri Helen
Published: May 2014

Falls are the commonest cause of accidents in the home, affecting onethird of those over 65 years of age every year. Thirty-seven patients who had fallen took part in a quasi-experimental study with a pretest post-test design. Group A received a group education programme and an information booklet, and group B received just the booklet. Results showed that patients who participated in a group programme with the booklet were most likely to show a very high score when tested on their knowledge of falls prevention strategies, but had little change to their attitudes/behaviour towards risk-taking 1 month after discharge.
Assessment of techniques available for the analysis of BMD
Authors: Brettle Paul
Published: May 2014

Osteoporosis is experiencing an elevation in profile owing to increasing public awareness and advancing diagnostic technology. These are combining to drive osteoporosis treatment and research forward. However, the system of choice for assessment of bone mineral density and the corresponding financial implications are surrounded by controversy. Both of these issues are considered in the following review of currently available systems.
Physiotherapy in occupational health in industry
Authors: Hoenich JM
Published: May 2014

The following profile aims to give an insight into the role of the occupational health physiotherapist, highlighting the range of work encountered within an occupational health setting in industry. The profile represents a personal perspective and does not claim to represent any official viewpoint.
Outcome measures on a stroke rehabilitation unit
Authors: Tuson Sally , Evans Chris
Published: May 2014

Stroke and its consequences use up a major proportion of the NHS resources (Wolfe et al, 1996). To monitor where these resources are required we need to look at the outcome of the rehabilitation of stroke patients. The Cornwall Assessment Protocol provides an excellent way of communicating the needs of the patient in terms of help and equipment necessary to complete everyday tasks.
Developing a physiotherapy service for patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Ashburn Ann , Lennon Sheila , Mokone Sara
Published: May 2014

This paper describes the development of an exercise support group for people with multiple sclerosis. The prime aim was to encourage the participants to use the group as a means of positively maintaining their physical abilities through the use of self-managed home programmes. Participants highlight encouragement to continue their home programme, peer support and access to therapists as important benefits from the group. Therapists have been able to use their time more efficiently and effectively by managing a number of people in one session and encouraging a preventative programme. The group should not be viewed as a substitute for outpatient treatment. These preliminary findings of good practice require more stringent evaluation.
Overview of sports wheelchairs
Authors: Butler Bill
Published: May 2014

Sports wheelchairs are of two types, either built for speed or for court mobility. All have characteristics that are dictated by the rules that govern the sport and by the role played within that sport. This overview of sports wheelchairs highlights some general considerations appropriate to all sports wheelchairs and looks at application in specific sports.
Radionuclide imaging
Authors: Holmes Ken
Published: May 2014

This article describes the equipment, principle and practice of radionuclide imaging as undertaken in thousands of hospitals worldwide. It outlines the use of radionuclide as a diagnostic tool and highlights common studies.
Bath lifts and hoists
Authors: Beresford Susan A
Published: May 2014

Despite difficulties experienced by some disabled people or those with restricted movement, many still wish to continue to use the bath. Some disabled people are offered the opportunity to have their bath exchanged for a shower unit assisted by a Disabled Facilities Grant from their local Environmental Health Department. Others do not fit the criteria, have to fund such work themselves and would prefer to use the bath. Bath lifts and hoists offer these people the choice to continue to bath if that is their wish.
Fluid and micronutrient intake: needs for physical activity
Authors: Gleeson Mike
Published: May 2014

Sweating during prolonged exercise in the heat incurs a progressive loss of water and electrolytes from the body, causing decreases in plasma volume, impairment of athletic performance and posing a risk to health. Fluid intake during and after exercise is important to replenish losses in sweat. In order to achieve optimal rates of absorption of water from the gut, drinks should contain some glucose (110–170mmol/litre) and sodium (40–80mmol/litre) and should not exceed isotonicity. Micronutrient supplementation does not appear to enhance performance and excessive dosage of some vitamins can be harmful. Micronutrient intakes are correlated with energy intake up to about 20MJ/day. However, suboptimal dietary intakes of iron, calcium, zinc and magnesium have been reported in some athletes and supplementation of these minerals may be beneficial.
Self-worth in the heart attack survivor
Authors: Conduit Ed
Published: May 2014

The survivor of a myocardial infarction is not usually debilitated: there is little of the lassitude associated with other serious illnesses, the senses and reason work as well as before, and the restrictions imposed on mobility by hospital staff may not correspond to any subjective sense of unwellness. So what is it about a heart attack that needs rehabilitation? Low self-esteem may frequently underly a history of poor self-care, both of emotional and physical health.
Wheelchairs: a maintenance dilemma?
Authors: Walmsley William H
Published: May 2014

By now most of you will have heard of the Medical Devices Directive (MDD) and, hopefully, have some ideas about how it will affect your future.
Radiography managers' views on continuing professional development
Authors: Castle Alan , Adrian-Harris Derek , Holloway David G , Race Angela J
Published: May 2014

Considerable emphasis has been placed upon the importance of continuing professional development (CPD) in virtually all professional occupational groups in the UK over the last two decades. This has been in response to social and technological changes which require practitioners to improve and develop their professional competence. The aim of this paper is to report on a survey of diagnostic and therapy radiography managers in one English regional health authority, which explored the organizational and resourcing issues of CPD.
Conformal radiotherapy: do patients benefit?
Authors: Sterry Lynne
Published: May 2014

Conformal radiotherapy shapes the radiation beam to conform closely to the tumour target in all three dimensions. This should minimize the irradiation of normal tissues and allow higher tumour doses to be delivered. An increasing number of departments are embracing the new technologies which allow the implementation of conformal techniques, but how are the potential clinical benefits to be evaluated? This paper aims to highlight some of the issues for consideration.
Choosing a stairlift: considerations for the user
Authors: Kelsall Ann
Published: May 2014

For people who are unable to use the stairs, various types of stairlift are available for installation in private houses or public buildings. Installing a stairlift is often a cheaper solution than altering the house or moving. Stairlifts can be used by ambulant disabled people and wheelchair users, either independently or with assistance. They can be installed on existing staircases, with little structural work, and can be removed when no longer required. They can be designed to fit almost any staircase, and some are suitable for use on outside stairways. A stairlift needs to be chosen with care to suit the user's needs and it needs to fit appropriately to the stairs on which it will be installed. Full consideration must be made for the user's comfort and safety, the ease of use, the total costs, and the quality of servicing arrangements on offer. The availability of assistance from social services and the possibility of obtaining a grant to help with the cost should be fully investigated before going ahead with installing a stairlift.
Ergonomics and people with a disability in the workplace
Authors: Pode Louise
Published: May 2014

The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 provides companies with the opportunity to examine their objectives towards people with disabilities. This article outlines a new approach for the practical application of ergonomic theory to the recruitment, retention and development of staff with a disability to ensure that their work environment is optimized, enabling the employer to benefit fully from their skills, abilities and commitment.
Rationing our therapy services: is it rightful and reasonable?
Authors: Spalding Nicola J
Published: May 2014

This paper discusses some of the rationing methods that occur today which attempt to manage the demand on therapy services in the NHS. The need for rationing is explained followed by the role of the law and ethics. A selection of rationing methods are then discussed and some attention to the future is offered for ongoing deliberation.
Combined toilets and bidets for use by people with a disability
Authors: Beresford Susan A
Published: May 2014

Toileting is a function that most people take for granted. However, if considered, it is the activity that causes most embarrassment and distress if assistance is needed. Many people who experience difficulties with toileting find that equipment such as a raised toilet seat or hand rail can restore independence, but where disability is more severe, more complex solutions are required.
Limb lymphoedema treatment: enhancing patients' quality of life
Authors: Franks Alison L , Jarrett Hilary
Published: May 2014

Lymphoedema of the limbs is often associated with malignancies and their treatment, although it may arise secondary to other conditions or even as a primary phenomenon. It causes considerable physical and psychological distress. Currently it is incurable, but the therapeutic options available for its control are reviewed here.
Allen's cognitive levels with people who are dementing
Authors: Conroy M Catherine
Published: May 2014

The cognitive disabilities model is an occupational therapy model that is particularly useful in work with dementing people. It was devised by Claudia Allen and colleagues. The six cognitive levels specify the assets and limitations of those at each level. Functional impairments are acknowledged but the structure and cues required to carry out designated, personalized activities are described. The rationale can be readily explained to relatives and carers. Several standardized assessments have been developed. This paper introduces the reader to the model and refers to the research underpinning the assessment tools. The use of this model is supported by examples from Britain.
Developing leadership skills among nurses
Authors: Gopee Neil
Published: May 2014

There seems to be a shortage of visible nurse leaders who can inspire nurses and act as role models. There is a certain degree of disillusionment and demoralization among NHS staff generally and there is difficulty in recruitment and retention. Leadership is required but there are too few courses and programmes on leadership skill development. In fact such opportunities should be made not only available but also accessible to the majority of nurses who are permanently based in the clinical area.
Treating chronic fatigue syndrome with complementary therapies
Authors: Featherstone Carolyn
Published: May 2014

This article reports on the use of complementary therapies in managing symptoms of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome patients. A study was undertaken of 40 patients, most of whom had failed to get diagnosis, treatment and support from conventional practitioners. This article reports their use of complementary therapies, of which homeopathy was the most widely used and which gave symptom relief in 24 patients.
Perceived barriers to research utilization: a survey of four therapies
Authors: José Closs S , Lewin Bob JP
Published: May 2014

Little is currently known about what therapists perceive as barriers to implementing research findings into practice. This paper reports a survey of the perceptions of both hospital- and community-based therapists of the major barriers to research utilization. One hundred and three respondents from dietetics, occupational therapy, physiotherapy and speech and language therapy were included in the study. They were unanimous in their reports that the greatest barrier was the lack of time, both for reading about research and implementing findings into practice. Other important factors included lack of facilities for implementation and difficulties in understanding and interpreting research findings. Recommendations are made for encouraging research utilization, in particular for ringfencing time for reading research reports and introducing changes into practice.
Developmental dyspraxia involving spoken language
Authors: Neale Frances
Published: May 2014

This article is an adaptation of a speech and language therapist's contribution to a study day organized by the Norfolk Group of the Dyspraxia Trust for parents, teachers and other professionals. It describes characteristics typical of children with developmental dyspraxia, discusses responses to the difficulty and suggests some of the factors that may be involved in therapy.
Developing an observational form for assessing patients' mental health
Authors: King Joanne , Watkins Kirsty
Published: May 2014

Assessment is an important component of the occupational therapy process. This article details the development of an observation form that can be used to assess a patient's performance during occupational therapy treatment. The form acts as a continuous assessment record with the aim of evaluating a patient's performance over a period of time.
Protection of title for physiotherapists: current position
Authors: Robinson Penelope
Published: May 2014

This article sets out the regulatory framework governing Chartered and State Registered Physiotherapists. It will identify the gaps that exist regarding the lack of regulation and protection of the title of ‘physiotherapist’ and outline the action that is being undertaken to gain protection of title to inform and benefit the general public.
Questions about interviewing as a research technique
Authors: Willmore Esther
Published: May 2014

Major issues arise from interviewing as a research strategy. These issues are not new in themselves, but have a new significance in a climate which emphasises both evidence-based enquiry, and the search for a more powerful users' voice in public services. Questions are raised cregarding both ethical issues concerning what is to count as evidence and methodological issues concerning what is to count as ‘real’ research.
Qualitative research and data analysis
Authors: Locke Simon
Published: May 2014

This paper provides a basic outline of qualitative research techniques and the steps involved in qualitative data analysis. A comparison is made with quantitative research, arguing that this is not as objective and non-interpretative as it often made out to be. Qualitative data analysis is illustrated using an example from the field of social studies of science to outline how qualitative research may be applied.
Neuroleptic drugs and good practice in care homes
Authors: Levenson Ros
Published: May 2014

The development of community care policies has enabled many older people to remain in their own homes, supported by a range of health and social care services. However, for some older people, care in a residential or nursing home may eventually be necessary. As the average age of older people in care homes has risen, so too has the prevalence of dementia among residents, which is variously estimated at occurring in between 50% and 80% of older people in care homes (Schneider, 1997). This raises many issues about best practice in caring for people who may have complex needs relating to both physical and mental health and to social care. One such issue is the use of neuroleptic drugs, which are also known as antipsychotics or major tranquillizers.
Issues surrounding long-term care
Authors: Finlay Olwen
Published: May 2014

The number of elderly people is rising dramatically and is expected to rise in Great Britain by another 45% by the year 2050 over the 1990 figures (United States Bureau of Census, unpublished observations, 1991). There must be planning at a national level to ensure that there will be enough adequately trained professionals to meet future demands. In December 1997, Frank Dobson, the Health Secretary, set up the first Royal Commission in Health for over 20 years, to consider options for the future practical provision of care andto investigate ‘fair and affordable’ ways of funding long-term care. The cost of care should be apportioned between public funds and individuals with regard to:
The wheelchair voucher scheme: a comparative study
Authors: White Elizabeth A
Published: May 2014

The wheelchair voucher scheme was introduced in 1996 to give wheelchair users more choice in the provision that was available to them. Three options were proposed offering a chair from the NHS range or a voucher towards the purchase of a chair through new partnership or independent options. This study examines the implementation of the new scheme by three wheelchair services representing inner city, suburban and rural populations, using questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with senior therapists. No users selected the partnership scheme and many users who expressed an interest finally chose the NHS model. The rural district, with a high elderly population, found lightweight transit chairs were most frequently requested. Uptake was lowest in the inner city area. Feedback from the users has been positive. Further advertising of the scheme is planned, together with monitoring to assess its efficacy among wheelchair users.
THE SMITH AND NEPHEW LIFTMASTER
Authors: Sharples Val
Published: May 2014

The Liftmaster* was launched in the UK by Smith and Nephew in November 1997. This new venture was a continuation of the successful Bathmaster* bathlift, and uses the same design as regards appearance and colour.
THE EMPOWERING CORBIE DE LUXE POWER CHAIR
Authors: Hinde Allen
Published: May 2014

The application of design considerations to equipment intended to enable people with disabilities to increase their activity has resulted in the generation of innovative products. This process has been applied to the concept of the powered wheelchair and has produced an item of equipment that could best be described as a chair that empowers its occupant. This article will look at the Corbie De Luxe power chair from Scandinavian Mobility. The intention is to examine the comfort of the Corbie De Luxe for the occupant, its construction and its suitability for use within everyday environments.
Assessment of footwear in rehabilitation patients: a pilot study
Authors: Beynon JH , Murray CE
Published: May 2014

Unsatisfactory and inappropriate footwear increases the risk of falling and poor balance, both important factors for patients undergoing rehabilitation. This study highlights that the provision of appropriate footwear in this population is poor and it is recommended that footwear assessment and advice be considered as an integral part of the rehabilitation process.
Physiotherapy in a multisensory environment
Authors: Anstee Holly
Published: May 2014

Multisensory environments (MSE) are increasingly available as part of the facilities for people with severe learning disability. The MSE may be used to enhance the treatment of individuals who require physiotherapy. The definition and the historical development of MSE are given. A literature review reveals the physical, social and psychological benefits of MSE.
Wheelchair training needs for OTs and physiotherapists
Authors: Aldersea P , Ham R , White E
Published: May 2014

Following the McColl report and the devolution of the wheelchair service into the NHS, the training needs of therapists working in this area increased considerably. A survey was undertaken to identify where such needs existed and to gain information about the type of programme required. The results show that there is a demand for further education and training for therapists working in NHS wheelchair services.
Wheelchair cushions: assessment and prescription
Authors: White Elizabeth A
Published: May 2014

Wheelchair cushions are prescribed for comfort and positioning, pressure relief and postural management. This article describes assessment and prescription considerations required for accurate wheelchair cushion selection and discusses properties and uses of cushions that are available. Emphasis is given to the role of wheelchair cushions in the overall management strategy of wheelchair users.
Cardiac rehabilitation following myocardial infarction
Authors: Nolan Mike , Nolan Janet
Published: May 2014

Coronary heart disease is the major cause of death in the UK, but cardiac rehabilitation programmes have tended to develop in an ad hoc and unsystematic way. This article considers some of the deficits in current practice and suggests ways in which nurses can contribute more fully to care in this area.
Brain injury: a personal view
Authors: Bailey Pam
Published: May 2014

Last month saw the launch of Brain Injury Week (15–22 March). Its primary aim was to promote awareness and understanding of the special needs of the brain injured and their families. Last year awareness weeks were criticized in the media and within charities as an over used public relations tool.