bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Caring for older skin: preventing and treating dryness
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Ageing and lifestyle factors can contribute to dry skin conditions in older people. Linda Nazarko discusses the important role of the nurse in understanding the causes, management and treatments of dry skin.
Maintaining healthy skin in the older ostomate
Authors: Williams Julia
Published: May 2014

Peristomal skin problems can have physical and psychological effects as well as influence the future care of a stoma. Julia Williams discusses the principles of maintaining healthy skin of the older ostomate.
Employers must be aware of changes in dismissal laws
Authors: Edwards Gareth
Published: May 2014

Employers could be liable to pay more compensation if they do not follow a new code of practice relating to grievance and discipline procedures. Gareth Edwards introduces the changes and what they will mean for employers as well as employees.
Swine flu in the workplace: guidance for employers
Authors: Edwards Gareth
Published: May 2014

As well as the obvious health consequences of the current flu epidemic, employers are presented with problems from an employment law perspective. Gareth Edwards answers some crucial questions.
Caring for those with dementia at the end of their life
Authors: Carole Judy , Jordan Mary
Published: May 2014

Caring for those with dementia presents a challenge. Mary Jordan and Judy Carole examine the case for a holistic approach
Why your approach to pain affects quality of life
Authors: Swann Julie
Published: May 2014

In the second of a two-part series on pain, Julie Swann outlines the treatments that are on offer for sufferers and why pain management is linked to the individual's level of ability and participation in activities.
CQC's first report is a success
Authors: Whittle Beccy
Published: May 2014

Beccy whittle explores some of the highlights from the Care Quality Commission's first annual report.
News Analysis
Authors: Whittle Beccy
Published: May 2014

Beccy whittle explores the latest information on hip fractures and the support available to older people who suffer from them.
Development and maintenance of health and safety practices
Authors: Weaver Dawn
Published: May 2014

Dawn Weaver discusses what your responsibilities are to the health, safety and security of your care home.
Caring for Christians in care homes
Authors: Houssart Marion
Published: May 2014

Marion Houssart explains why it is important for care staff to have an understanding of Christian beliefs, customs and traditions.
Should we legislate or regulate food provision?
Authors: Sheppard Lee
Published: May 2014

Lee Sheppard discusses the upcoming Care Quality Commission (CQC) review of food provision. While anxious that food provision does not get ‘bogged down’ in legislation, he suggests that care home operators should see the review
Gardening: adaptive techniques for care home residents
Authors: Swann Julie I
Published: May 2014

This article explains how care staff can help residents to continue to enjoy gardening by the adoption of different techniques, using DIY solutions and the provision of some assistive equipment.
A safer future
Authors: Whittle Becky
Published: May 2014

Beccy Whittle reports on the introduction of new measures designed to improve the level of protection that is given to vulnerable adults.
Nutrition and dementia
Authors: Dunne Annette
Published: May 2014

Annette Dunne discusses the role of nutrition in dementia and examines the reasons behind the high incidence of malnutrition among older people in care homes.
Sickness absence: what employers need to know
Authors: Massenhove Alan
Published: May 2014

Sickness absence is a difficult subject for any employer, but especially so in labour-reliant areas such as residential care. Alan Massenhove explains what steps managers should take and when.
Welcoming new arrivals to the home
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

In this article Linda Nazarko explains how new beginnings relate to the experiences of older people. Reference will made to enabling individuals to negotiate specific environments.
The bully at work
Authors: Macmillan Julia
Published: May 2014

Julia Macmillan on the benefits of developing and maintaining good working relationships, and how to tackle or prevent bullying in a care home setting.
Care of the older person: a Buddhist perspective
Authors: Wilkins Amy , Mailoo Venthan J. , Kularatne Udara
Published: May 2014

In this, the final installment of our religion series, Amy Wilkins and Venthan.J.Mailoo discuss the spiritual and cultural needs of Buddhist older people
NEWS ANALYSIS
Authors: Whittle Beccy
Published: May 2014

Beccy Whittle reports on a series of nationwide events designed to highlight the important role that carers play throughout the UK.
Take it easy: How the cycle of stress and pain associated with wound care affects recovery
Authors: Solowiej Kazia
Published: May 2014

The influence of pain can cause stress for patients with wounds, leading to delayed healing. Here Kazia Solowiej reviews the current literature that explores this relationship.
News Analysis
Authors: Whittle Beccy
Published: May 2014

Beccy whittle reports on the parliamentary efforts to ensure schools and GPs take the lead in identifying and supporting those who give up their time to care for others.
Substance misuse among care home residents
Authors: Rao Tony , Crome IIana
Published: May 2014

Tony rao and ilana Crome explain how substance misuse may affect a number of your residents. They explain the consequences for the individual, and how care homes can assess people and manage the issue.
Dementia care: could animal robots benefit residents?
Authors: Campbell Anne
Published: May 2014

When care homes do not allow pets to visit or live in the home, is there a place for robotic pets? Can they confer any of the same benefits to residents as real animals? anne Campbell discusses her case study about them
Practical care: helping people get a good nights sleep
Authors: Kerr Diana
Published: May 2014

Getting a good night's sleep is a priority for all of us. it is the primary task of night staff to promote good, undisturbed sleep among the people in their care. This, however, is very often not achieved
Faecal incontinence: diagnosis, treatment and management
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Faecal incontinence is a distressing condition for those who suffer from it, but there are many things that care and nursing staff can do to manage it rather than just containing the problem.
Managing skin conditions due to venous leg ulceration
Authors: Brown Annemarie
Published: May 2014

Those caring for patients with venous leg ulceration tend to focus on managing the ulcer, however the surrounding skin is also important. Annemarie Brown describes its effective management
Dehydration: best practice in the care home
Authors: Campbell Naomi
Published: May 2014

Care homes are struggling to provide elderly patients with enough to drink. Naomi Campbell, discusses the associated problems with dehydration and ways in which to reassure patients
Oral care for older people in residential care
Authors: Burns Beth C.
Published: May 2014

Oral care is an essential area of care for older people in the nursing home. Beth Burns provides guidance on providing a basic assessment tool and daily protocol
Catheter-associated urinary tract infection
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Residents who have a catheter may not actually require one. However, when one is clinically indicated staff must use effective evidence-based care, as Linda Nazarko explains
Improving nutrition outcomes through training
Authors: Johnson Derek
Published: May 2014

Meeting Outcome 5 can be a difficult task for staff. Derek Johnson Stresses the importance of training and how it can dramatically effect standards in the home and residents’ quality of life
Do you know how optometrists can support residents?
Authors: Hayes Kerry
Published: May 2014

In the first part of this series on eye care, Kerry Hayes explains the role of the domiciliary optometrist, what an eye text entails and the support that can be provided for residents with communication problems to ensure they receive the care that is available
Wander-walking and the use of telecare: key principles to uphold
Authors: Hughes Rhidian
Published: May 2014

Telecare products, including sensors and location devices, help to manage wander-walking. As such it is important to consider the clinical-ethical issues raised. Rhidian Hughes emphasises the need for a balanced debate on these complex issues
Raise the alarm: an introduction to selecting fire safety systems
Authors: Brown Stuart
Published: May 2014

It is particularly important for institutions that care for vulnerable and older people to have the correct fire safety systems in place. Stuart Brown provides guidance on what alarms and sensors would be most suited for different care services
Important considerations of intermittent catheterisation
Authors: Mangnall Joanne
Published: May 2014

Failure to appreciate the psychological impact of intermittent catheterisation on the individual can result in poor concordance with the regimen. Joanne Mangnall explains how nurses can support individuals who may find it dificult
Now or never: following guidance for risk prevention
Authors: Kirton Heather
Published: May 2014

Preventable patient safety incidents, or ‘never events', should not occur if appropriate measures have been taken. Heather Kirton describes the recent changes to policy and guidance to ensure that care homes provide a safe environment for residents
Monitoring water systems to prevent Legionnaires' disease
Authors: Hamar Matthew
Published: May 2014

Care homes have a duty to protect the safety of vulnerable residents by assessing water systems to ensure they comply with the standards set out by the Health and Safety Executive to prevent the spread of Legionella
How to … apply and change incontinence pads
Authors: Payne Drew
Published: May 2014

Continence pads and aids have changed a lot in recent years, being improved and refined, and need correct use. If not used correctly, they can cause problems for the user. Using them is more than just common sense, as Drew Payne highlights
Moving and handling: assessing the handler
Authors: Sturman-Floyd Melanie
Published: May 2014

Moving and handling is an integral part of our daily lives, at home and in all areas of health and social care. This article is the frst of a three part series focusing on the assessment of the handler or individual at work
Putting guidelines into practice for older people at risk of falling
Authors: Good Kirsten
Published: May 2014

Stroke survivors, people with impaired balance or poor upper-limb strength are more susceptible to falls. Regular exercise, involving strength, balance and coordination activities, can prevent falls from happening
Compassion and caring: responding to ‘Willis’ and ‘Francis’
Authors: Ramsay Mike
Published: May 2014

Mike Ramsay argues that more research into what it means to be compassionate and how it should be learned and applied is needed before a programme of change for both nurses and HCAs is introduced
How to … prepare staff for a stress-free retirement
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: May 2014

Staff should be given as much up-to-date information as possible as they prepare for retirement. Nursing & Residential Care’s Consultant Editor, Adrian Ashurst, provides ten tips for managers in the care sector
Influencing communication and interaction in dementia
Authors: Veselinova Claire
Published: May 2014

This unit is designed to provide health and social care workers with the knowledge and understanding of the different communication needs and abilities of individuals with dementia in order to enhance positive interaction
The rules and regulations for medication management
Authors: Wright Kerri
Published: May 2014

Older, frail residents in care home can have a variety of comorbidities that require several medications. It is the care home's duty to ensure that these are safely administered, recorded and managed, as Kerri Wright explains
Making pneumococcal immunisation pay
Authors: Crawford Moira
Published: May 2014

With reports of its increasing antibiotic resistance and spiralling hospitalisation costs, pneumococcal disease is fast becoming number one public enemy. Moira Crawford reports.
Epilepsy: Clinical management
Authors: Hart Yvonne
Published: May 2014

With the drugs currently on the market, prognosis for epilepsy is good. Yvonne Hart examines epilepsy treatment.
Organising an asthma clinic
Authors: Thompson Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Thompson examines the administration of a successful asthma clinic, and how to maintain a high standard of care.
Are practice nurses worth their salt?
Authors: Jones Mark
Published: May 2014

Mark Jones looks at the profits pulled in to the practice by the average practice nurse and finds that they more than earn their keep.
The X-Ray Files
Authors: Brindle Michael
Published: May 2014

The BBC's Panarama programme on X-rays was ill-conceived, says Michael Brindle
Finding the right device
Authors: Bryan Jenny
Published: May 2014

A panel of asthma specialist nurses has been set up to investigate which inhalers most suit patients. Jenny Bryan reports.
Conjunctivitis
Authors: Johnson Wendy , Johnson Stephen
Published: May 2014

In the first in a new series on common complaints presenting to the practice nurse, Wendy and Stephen Johnson look at the examination and treatment of conjunctivitis.
Advancing on all Fronts
Authors: Blatt Barry
Published: May 2014

The role of nurse practitioner is still mired in controversy and confusion, but as Barry Blatt discovered at their 5th annual conference individual efforts to expand practice are paying off.
Readers Respond
Authors: Payne Ian , Francis Sue , Gleeson Cathy , Drake Linda
Published: May 2014

UKCC needs grass roots input on voting plans

Recognition plea from nurse practitioners

Networking is essential

More reviews please
Your Future in Your Hands
Authors: Richards Sue
Published: May 2014

You can play a role in shaping the future of nursing by telling us your views, says Sue Richards, Vice-chair of the UKCC's task group looking at specialist practice. So, why not put pen to paper?
Education the Answer to Asthma Under-Diagnosis
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: May 2014

Growing numbers of children suffer from asthma. And their symptoms are getting worse. Yet childhood asthma remains under-diagnosed and under-treated, according to studies presented during the European Respiratory Societys meeting in Berlin last month. So is better education of both parents and professionals the answer?
Breast Cancer: Who is at Risk?
Authors: Froyd Helen
Published: May 2014

Many patients are afraid of developing breast cancer. By being aware of the risk factors the practice nurse can help patients unravel their perceptions.
Faints
Authors: Fisher Pam , Homes Peter
Published: May 2014

Patients frequently pass out in the treatment room, but when it happens outside the surgery it can indicate a serious underlying problem. Pam Fisher and Peter Homes explain why.
Management of Depot Neuroleptics
Authors: Cantle Florence
Published: May 2014

Many practitioners in primary care have been required to administer depot neuropleptics as part of the community care of schizophrenic patients.

In a survey of practitioners attending a workshop on depot neuroleptics, it was found that most would like further training, only half operate a recall system, and one third would prefer the job to be taken on by psychiatric nurses.

The conclusion is that many health care practitioners such as practice nurses performing this role need further training in the administration of depot neuroleptics, and in the management of schizophrenic patients as part of the care plan approach. The author recommends a working party to reassess the whole area of management of neuroleptic injections, and assess the training needs of primary care personnel.
Obstetrics and Gynaecology Handbook
Authors: Paniagua Hilary
Published: May 2014

Obstetrics and Gynaecology in General Practice: the primary care handbook and aide memoire — this is a really useful publication which overviews obstetrics, gynaecology and family planning as it applies to practising primary health care professionals. The approach is straightforward, aiming to give the reader a rapid reference and aide memoire during consultation with women. It offers a bird's-eye view of conditions important to primary care and consequently is not designed as a comprehensive text. It is clearly written in a style of writing that captures the reader.
Open Angle Glaucoma: To Screen or Not to Screen
Authors: Rumney Linda
Published: May 2014

Linda Rumney looks at the pros and cons of screening for glaucoma
Every Day, in Every Way...
Authors: Richards Sue
Published: May 2014

Just another piece of irrelevant record keeping? Sue Richards look at the logic behind PREP.
Consultations: In Practice
Authors: Paniagua Hilary
Published: May 2014

The role of the practice nurse has evolved rapidly over the last few years, once thought of as a job where anyone will do (Damant et al, 1994), it has now become a distinctive post for which the competition is often high. In effect a specialist role has subtlety grown for which little is known about its specific know-how, skills or expertise. While existing literature points to the more extensive scope of practice there is little research that explores practice nursing from the perspective of the grass roots practitioner.
Bilharzia: Fighting The Fluke
Authors: Hardty Lisa
Published: May 2014

Schistosomiasis, also termed Bilharziasis, is a form of Helminth (fluke) infection. It is estimated that between 2-300 million people are infected with the disease (Bell, 1995) the vast proportion of this figure being found in Africa (Figure 1), although in 1995 179 cases were reported in England and Wales. The two major species (in terms of numbers of population affected), are Schistosomiasis haematobium and S. mansoni. These are found almost exclusively in Africa, though S. mansoni can also be found in Brazil and some islands in the Caribbean, though not in sufficient numbers to be of risk to the passing tourist. It is worth mentioning the three other species which are S. Japonicum and S. mekongi, both found in S.E. Asia, and S. interculatum which can be found in small areas of Central and West Africa.
Cold Sores
Authors: Fisher Pam , Glenn Kate
Published: May 2014

Generally harmless, but often extremely painful, cold sores can cause considerable distress and should not be dismissed. Pam Fisher provides details about the nature of the infection, and its management.
Osteoporosis and HRT
Authors: Leyland Sarah
Published: May 2014

Sarah Leyland looks at how hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis in post-menopausal women
Health promotion among older people
Authors: Ramonaledi Sinna
Published: May 2014

Sinna Ramonaledi introduces health promotion and details how a client-cented approach needs to be adopted together with certain essential skills to allow successful health promotion among older people
Coeliac disease: an overview
Authors: Turner Alfred
Published: May 2014

Coeliac disease is a life-long complaint caused by an insensitivity to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley oats and rye
Preventing TB in travellers
Authors: Egerton David F , Wilkinson Robert J , Davidson Robert N
Published: May 2014

Travellers can be at risk of becoming infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. In this article we look at the choice of tuberculosis prevention strategies available
Heavy news
Authors: Saunders Diana
Published: May 2014

I've almost got to the point of not turning on the radio in the morning. Usually I am an avid fan of Radio 4 and the ‘Today’ programme on my half hour journey to work. But at the moment, the news is just so full of doom and gloom: Northern Ireland, Pinochet, abuse at children's homes, national average wages going up so we must all pay more interest to offset it, etc. These issues are all important but there is just so much of it you can get into terminal overload.
Cryosurgery in primary care
Authors: Hoggins Catherine
Published: May 2014

Catherine Hoggins provides a guide to cryosurgery, a form of therapy that an increasing number of practice nurses carry out
Extending nurse prescribing: A practice nurse perspective
Authors: Baird Anne
Published: May 2014

Most practice nurses depend on GPs to authorize all their prescribing decisions. By contrast, district nurses and health visitors have been undertaking prescribing training since December 1998, and many will be fully qualified to prescribe for a limited formulary by April. Unless practice nurses have a district nurse or health visitor qualification, they have not been eligible to participate in this programme.
The cost of quality
Authors: Martin Jeannett
Published: May 2014

Over the years the annual practice nurse conference has not only raised and debated issues important to practice nursing, but has also provided a mandate for the elected committee of the RCN Practice Nurse Association to take these issues forward at a national level.
Using photography in wound assessment
Authors: Bianco Maria , Williams Clare
Published: May 2014

Maria Bianco and Clare Williams discuss the use of photography in wound assessment and the need for consent
Managing anaphylaxis in general practice
Authors: Walker Samantha
Published: May 2014

Anaphylaxis is a severe, rapid and frightening allergic reaction that requires immediate treatment. Samantha Walker explains how and when to respond and what follow-up to give.
Sexuality and the person with pulmonary disease
Authors: Haggerty Sharon
Published: May 2014

Sharon Haggerty argues that a truly holistic respiratory consultation should include an assessment of the patient's sexual function
Compression therapy: How to make it effective
Authors: Bentley Jenny
Published: May 2014

In the second article in this series on achieving quality in leg ulcer management, Jenny Bentley looks at the options for effective compression therapy
Helping patients learn more effectively
Authors: Goodman-Brown Jane
Published: May 2014

Jane Goodman-Brown looks at the different ways that health professionals can help adults learn about diabetes
Child travellers
Authors: Townend Mike
Published: May 2014

Mike Townend looks at the special health and vaccination needs of child travellers for protection against infectious diseases
Hepatitis A
Authors: Driver Carolyn
Published: May 2014

Carolyn Driver investigates the risks of infection with hepatitis A and how to advise travellers about prevention
Hypothyroidism: More common in women
Authors: Perry Margaret
Published: May 2014

Margaret Perry discusses the causes, symptoms and treatment of hypothyroidism
Finding reliable evidence on the web—quickly
Authors: Bentley Jenny , Leyshon Stephen , Tofts Diane
Published: May 2014

Jenny Bentley, Stephen Leyshon and Diane Tofts explain how to search quickly for evidence-based health-care information on the internet
You'll never walk alone in Liverpool
Authors: Martin Jeannett
Published: May 2014

Jeannett Martin reports on the discussion at last month's annual Practice Nurse Conference, held at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool
Vitiligo and pityriasis versicolor
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Vitiligo is marked by an acquired destruction of melanocytes, causing areas of skin depigmentation (Du Vivier, 2002). Pityriasis versicolor may also present with depigmented areas of skin but is caused by a yeast. Accurate differential diagnosis of these two conditions is important (Table 1).
Managing common musculoskeletal injuries
Authors: Horne Amanda
Published: May 2014

Amanda Horne looks at the management of musculoskeletal injuries in general practice
Diarrhoea
Authors: Wilcox Adrienne
Published: May 2014

In the first of a series of travel clinics focusing on returning travellers’ ailments, Adrienne Wilcox investigates the differential diagnosis of travellers who come home with diarrhoea
Guidelines for benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Kirkwood Lyn
Published: May 2014

Lyn Kirkwood investigates the potential benefits of nurse-led clinics for the management of lower urinary tract symptoms in men
The short fall
Authors: Hope Sally
Published: May 2014

The National Service Framework for Older People came into general practice in 2001 with large glossy publications of targets and implementation resource packs. We are supposed to have set and gone some way to achieving the goals by 2005. It is not happening in the average surgery. Why not?
Trust, counsel and fellowship
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Dr Jean Watkins spoke to Lucy Jolin about the importance of good communication between GPs, nurses and patients
An audit of epilepsy care in general practicecare in general practice
Authors: Cleaver Amanda
Published: May 2014

Amanda Cleaver reports on an audit of epilepsy services in twelve general practices in Buckinghamshire
Planning an effective pneumococcal campaign
Authors: Willcox Adrienne
Published: May 2014

Adrienne Willcox explains how to ensure that all practice patients who need pneumococcal vaccination receive it
A career pathway for new practice nurses
Authors: Leyshon Stephen , Tofts Diane
Published: May 2014

Stephen Leyshon and Diane Tofts argue that practice nurses need to adopt a lifelong approach to learning and place this in the context of a career pathway that enables both personal and service development
How to identify obesity in children—and when
Authors: Fry Tam
Published: May 2014

In the first article in a three-part series, Tam Fry explains the importance of identifying obesity in young children and how to use diagnostic charts and tools
Travel health clinic: Typhoid fever
Authors: Driver Carolyn
Published: May 2014

Carolyn Driver looks at the transmission of typhoid fever and reviews preventive measures including vaccination for travellers to high-risk destinations
Temporal (cranial) arteritis
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Mr James, was a 64-year-old worried man. He attended the surgery complaining that he had not felt so well of late, that he tired easily, had lost weight, had muscle aches and sometimes felt as if he had a fever. He put it down to the fact that he was just about to retire and that the pressures of the job had been getting him down. In the last few days he had been bothered by a tenderness of the scalp and throbbing headaches. He added, ‘It is ridiculous, but it gets worse when I put on my cap or wear my glasses!’
Dyspepsia: Matching treatment to symptoms
Authors: Green Mark
Published: May 2014

Dr Mark Green explains the difference between dyspepsia and GORD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease), and reviews the NICE guideline for managing dyspepsia
The pensions review
Authors: Martin Jeannett
Published: May 2014

The NHS Pension Scheme has not been changed substantially since it was introduced, but the benefits are generally considered to be excellent. It is now in the process of being reviewed and a consultation document has been published (NHS Employers, 2005).
Stroke prevention
Authors: Vines Gregg
Published: May 2014

Someone has a stroke every 5 minutes in the UK and over 250 000 people are left with severe disabilities as a result. The Stroke Association has worked tirelessly to reduce the effects and impact of stroke, and the key to this is prevention. Stroke prevention depends on reducing risk factors such as high blood pressure in people at high risk of stroke and in the general population. The Department of Health has recognized the importance of prevention as part of the development of an integrated stroke service in the National Service Framework (NSF) for Older People.
Folic acid: An important risk-reduction measure
Authors: Griffiths Brenda
Published: May 2014

Brenda Griffiths explains the importance of folic acid supplementation before pregnancy and during the first trimester
Helping women make the right HRT choice
Authors: Stevenson John C
Published: May 2014

Dr John C Stevenson considers how practice nurses can help women decide whether, when and how to take hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Diabetes morbidity in schizophrenia
Authors: Holt Richard IG
Published: May 2014

Richard Holt looks at the high prevalence of comorbid diabetes and schizophrenia and argues that such patients are particularly vulnerable and deserve the same physical care as other patients
Leading the response to changes in nursing
Authors: Norman Kay
Published: May 2014

Kay Norman considers the implications of the current emphasis on the development of nurse leaders
Tinea corporis
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Tinea corporis may present frequently in the surgery. While it may seem easy to diagnose, other conditions such as granuloma annulare, the herald spot in pityriasis rosea, and discoid eczema may easily be confused with it. It is important to make a correct diagnosis because management of these conditions is different (Table 1). Failure to recognize and treat tinea corporis not only allows the condition to spread, but also increases the risk that the patient will pass it on to others (Wandsworth, 2002).
Improving practice
Authors: Sanders Kate
Published: May 2014

The Foundation of Nursing Studies (FoNS) is an independent charity set up in 1991 to help nurses, midwives and health visitors develop practice to improve patient care. FoNS recognizes that nurses, midwives and health visitors are at the heart of patient care and are committed to ensuring care is of the highest standard, underpinned by evidence from patients, research and clinical practice. However, practitioners need to feel empowered to take greater responsibility for leading quality care and require skills in effective ways of changing and advancing practice.
Controlling symptoms with asthma action plans
Authors: Burns Dave
Published: May 2014

Dave Burns discusses the consequences of failure to recognize the signs of asthma exacerbations and considers the value of asthma action plans
Developing practice nurses' leadership skills
Authors: Hughes Alison , Elson Paula , Govier Ian
Published: May 2014

Clinical leadership skills are essential to improving care. Alison Hughes, Paula Elson and Ian Govier discuss the progress of a Welsh strategy to help practice nurses improve their leadership skills
Supporting an evolving nurse role
Authors: Cross Sue
Published: May 2014

Professional support for practice nurses has often been difficult to find. Sue Cross highlights an initiative that is responding to a need
Nails part 1:A pointer to diagnosis
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

In everyday life we meet, say hello and shake hands without much thought to the state of the other person's hands. In the surgery, however, meeting provides an opportunity to assess the patient as he/she walks through the door. As we take the patient's hand, a look at the nails may reveal signs of an underlying problem or hidden disease.
Lyme disease
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

The family had enjoyed a walk in the New Forest at the weekend. Three days later, an engorged tick was found attached to the leg of one of the children (Figure 1). The ‘intact’ tick was carefully removed but the family sought advice from the surgery about any further action that might need to be taken.
Making decisions about prescribing in diabetes
Authors: Chapman Stephen R
Published: May 2014

Stephen R Chapman explains the rationale for a decision-support tool for diabetes prescribers, and reports on some evidence for its effectiveness
Bernadette Higgins: Writing for recovery
Authors: Higgins Bernadette
Published: May 2014

Bernadette Higgins has discovered how beneficial writing can be as part of therapy. She told Lucy Jolin about building a patient's self-esteem
Exercise and multiple sclerosis: Have we come full circle?
Authors: Betts Liz
Published: May 2014

This article reviews the current strategies for health promotion and physical activity in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and compares them to strategies from the 1970s and 1980s and as far back as 1948. It also looks at the use of self-efficacy theory and its relevance to self-management of MS and what resources are available to the health professional and people with MS.
Community screening for aortic aneurysm
Authors: Murray Shelagh
Published: May 2014

Abdominal aortic aneurysms have the potential to rupture and cause death. Shelagh Murray looks at how a screening programme can help prevent this.
Recognizing the signs of retinoblastoma
Authors: Carter Juliette
Published: May 2014

Juliette Carter explains the importance of recognizing the signs of retinal cancer in children as early as possible to avoid unnecessarily aggressive treatment
Understanding the law and accountability
Authors: Bond Patricia , Paniagua Hilary
Published: May 2014

Patricia Bond and Hilary Paniagua discuss the issues of legal negligence and duty of care and consider the potential liability of nurses
A global village
Authors: Martin Jeannett
Published: May 2014

I recently attended the RCN travel health conference in London. It was an excellent day. The hall was packed with delegates from many fields of nursing, all with a common interest in the health−related aspects of travel. The main focus of the day was on helping with disasters such as the earthquake in Haiti, and illnesses relating to deployment to war zones.
Fiona's blog
Authors: Peniston−Bird Fiona
Published: May 2014

So you have secured funding, met the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) entry criteria for the prescribing training, and you have a designated medical practitioner who has agreed to support you during the clinical aspects of the course.
Ibuprofen for treatment of fever in infants
Authors: Purssell Edward
Published: May 2014

Edward Purssell considers the use of ibuprofen in the prevention and treatment of fever in infants, comparing its use with paracetamol where appropriate
Toni Millard's bowel cancer journey
Authors: Millard Toni
Published: May 2014

Toni Millard describes her diagnosis of bowel cancer and how she overcame the disease with chemotherapy and support
The PRIME approach to giving up smoking
Authors: McEwen Andy , West Robert
Published: May 2014

The PRIME theory of motivation and the SNAP model of smoking cessation can help us understand that quit attempts are determined by immediate desires.Andy McEwen and Robert West explain
Pruritis, part 4: Infestations
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Skin irritation is a common complaint in those afflicted by a variety of skin infestations and insect bites. Contact with fleas, bed bugs, lice, ticks (which can transmit Lyme disease), flies, wasps or bees is an everyday occurrence. Close contacts of people who have scabies may find that the mite has been transmitted to them when some weeks later they are troubled by an itchy rash.
Necrotizing fasciitis: Recognition and care
Authors: Cain Sarah
Published: May 2014

Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare soft tissue infection that can be fatal and should be treated as a medical emergency. Sarah Cain explains its management and assessment
What primary health professionals need to promote breastfeeding
Authors: Whelan Barbara , McEvoy Sarah , Eldin Nazih , Kearney John
Published: May 2014

Breastfeeding rates in Ireland remain among the lowest in Europe, with exclusive breastfeeding rates of 44% at discharge from hospital. The knowledge and attitudes of health professionals are important factors in the promotion and support of breastfeeding. This study was conducted to assess knowledge, attitudes and self-efficacy in breastfeeding in a group of primary health professionals, and the barriers to providing support. Data were collected from 256 primary care professionals (GPs, public health nurses (PHNs) and practice nurses) using a self-administered questionnaire. This study highlights some of the issues for health professionals in providing support for breastfeeding and a need for improved knowledge about the benefits of breastfeeding and how to provide practical support.
Exploring adherence issues in psoriasis care
Authors: Maguire Susan
Published: May 2014

Susan Maguire discusses the burden of psoriasis and explains how practice nurses can support patients to achieve greater adherence with prescribed treatment
The management of hand osteoarthritis
Authors: Chagadama Debbie
Published: May 2014

Hand osteoarthritis is often considered to be a mild disease, but it can have a significant impact on activities of daily living. Debbie Chagadama explains
Choosing devices for stoma patients
Authors: Williams Julia
Published: May 2014

With so much choice in stoma care products choosing the best appliances and accessories can be bewildering. Julia Williams offers guidance
Dispelling dietary myths of liver disease
Authors: Leaper Julie , Hamlin Susie
Published: May 2014

Julie Leaper and Susie Hamlin dispel some of the myths that are commonly held about dietary advice for people with liver disease
Providing assistance to Britons travelling abroad
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: May 2014

Ian Peate discusses the different aspects of travel health advice with reference to the support that is offered by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and other consular services
The importance of structured diabetes education programmes
Authors: Pipe-Thomas Paul
Published: May 2014

The prevalence of diabetes in the UK is increasing annually. Paul Pipe-Thomas discusses the importance and beneficial effects of structured education programmes for people with diabetes
The ethics committee: a facilitator or barrier to research?
Authors: Paniagua Hilary
Published: May 2014

For many years the NHS has had the benefit of research ethics committees (RECs) which play an important role in governing research. The decision that a research project may proceed is an important management responsibility of an REC not only because of the importance of making sure that all research is ethical, but because research itself involves the take up of valuable and often scarce NHS resources. Given RECs’ duty, it is surprising that there are no standards for RECs to judge their ethical reasoning by nor guidelines on how to make their final decisions. Inevitably RECs face constant criticism about their opinions and many researchers field their questions with little knowledge about RECs and the way they work. The aim of this article is to demystify RECs, and outline what applicants can expect when submitting their proposals to them. Having a better understanding of RECs, should help prepare practitioners and provide them with the information they need to work their way through the ethical approval process.
Substance use and diabetes: practical solutions
Authors: Hamilton Ian , Lloyd Charlie , Phillips Anne
Published: May 2014

Ian Hamilton, Charlie Lloyd and Anne Phillips demonstrate the need for assessment and the role of motivational interviewing when treating a person with diabetes who uses substances that may be harmful to health
Vascular disease and foot assessment in diabetes
Authors: Burland Paul , Phillips Anne
Published: May 2014

Paul Burland discusses the importance of foot assessments in patients with diabetes and the treatment options available for peripheral arterial disease
The high vaginal swab in general practice
Authors: Evans Andree , Morgan Marina
Published: May 2014

Andree Evans and Marina Morgan outline the benefits of the high vaginal swab in the investigation of reproductive tract symptoms
HIV management in eastern Uganda
Authors: Bisacre Cliff , Cooper Dan
Published: May 2014

Discovering Uganda’s health system may have life-changing effects. Clifford Bisacre and Dan Cooper travelled to Uganda in 2007 and have continued these visits to help people overcome three major diseases
Debbie Brown: Passion and motivation
Authors: Brown Debbie
Published: May 2014

Debbie Brown reiterates the importance of encouraging every nurse to reach their full potential
Effective use of negative pressure wound therapy
Authors: Milne Jeanette
Published: May 2014

Jeanette Milne discusses when and how to successfully integrate the use of negative pressure wound therapy in the community setting
Call for opportunistic screening to be made mandatory
Authors: Bilkhu Raj
Published: May 2014

Atrial Fibrillation (AF) Aware Week highlights the need to promote early detection of AF in primary care and the crucial role of practice nurses in the detection of cardiac arrhythmias
Monitoring heart rhythm
Authors: Thomas Susan
Published: May 2014

An ambulatory electrocardiogram (AECG) can be used to observe cardiac arrhythmias where routine cardiac examinations have not identified a problem
Diagnosis and treatment of asthma in children
Authors: Redwood Tracey , Neill Sarah
Published: May 2014

Tracey Redwood and Sarah Neill outline the diagnosis of asthma in children; pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment measures are reviewed, which can be tailored to the individual child once a diagnosis has been made
Prescribing for upper respiratory tract infection
Authors: Holmes Steve , Scullion Jane
Published: May 2014

Steve Holmes and Jane Scullion provide an overview of upper respiratory tract infections and the issues associated with inappropriate antibiotic prescribing
Rheumatoid arthritis: making an early diagnosis
Authors: Chamberlain Vicky
Published: May 2014

Vicky Chamberlain assesses the barriers to early diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and discusses the important role that practice nurses play in identifying people with this condition
Using QRISK 2 to assess cardiovascular risk
Authors: Thomas Susan
Published: May 2014

The QRISK 2 algorithm is widely used to provide accurate estimates of cardiovascular risk as part of the NHS Health Check Programme
Preparing and eating food together
Authors: Fawcett Alison
Published: May 2014

Eating is fundamental to existence and should be enjoyable. It means happy social occasions and family life. Alison Fawcett feels passionately about food and eating. Here she explains why food should be respected and why, as child carers, we must help children to understand this
Birth to Three Matters: A healthy child
Authors: Walker Miranda
Published: May 2014

What part do you have to play in helping children to be healthy? Miranda Walker looks at the guidance set out in the birth to three framework
Headlice: the facts
Authors: Davies Jonathan
Published: May 2014

You can play a part in educating parents, children and the community about headlice. Before there is an outbreak, parents should understand how you get headlice, how to tell whether you’ve got them and how to treat their children in the safest and most effective way. We give you the facts you need.
Game on
Authors: Todd Beverley
Published: May 2014

Games help children to develop a number of skills including counting, memory and motor skills. Why not extend their educational value by helping children to create their own indoor games? Beverley Todd offers some starting points
Container gardening
Authors: Youngman Angela
Published: May 2014

Short on space and want to introduce children to gardening? Or looking for a simple way to expand what’s on offer in your garden? Containers are an ideal option. Depending on its size, you can grow virtually anything in a container from bulbs and shrubs to annuals and vegetables
Resources round-up
Authors: Clark Lesley
Published: May 2014

This Ladybird series includes hardback books, activity books and flash cards. The hardback books retail at £1.25 each, the activity books £1.50 and the flash cards £2.99. They are all reasonably priced.
Puppets for fun
Authors: Coller Elizabeth
Published: May 2014

Making puppets is an inexpensive appealing activity which is only restricted by the size of your imagination. Any object can be transformed into a puppet by a few props and a voice.
Making friends
Authors: Jones Caroline
Published: May 2014

Forming relationships is about communication, about children feeling they belong and recognising their lives are connected with other people. A child who is able to establish effective relationships will grow up to be a secure, sensitive and caring adult
Make an indoor obstacle course
Authors: Stocks Sara
Published: May 2014

With careful and systematic planning you can design an indoor obstacle course that will cover most of the Physical Development ELGs. First, list the goals and consider how you can meet them in your environment. Then think about the major muscle groups that need exercising and the gross motor movements that help children to exercise those muscles. Discuss your plans with the children. They will surprise you with their understanding of what is required, so incorporate their suggestions. Make a list of all the movements that you can think of and, using the equipment you have put together, a list of required movements.
Creating levels and pathways
Authors: Newman Karen
Published: May 2014

In an ideal world every pre-school would have access to a large, well-designed garden with defined areas of soft, springy grass, hard paving, soil for digging, wild areas for exploring and den building, apparatus for climbing and swinging and quiet areas for contemplation. It would give children plenty of opportunities to experience different surfaces and gradients and adjust their movements to balance.
Making and matching patterns
Authors: Garrad Barbara
Published: May 2014

By introducing these activities, you will be addressing the following mathematical Early Learning Goals:
Being creative with wool
Authors: Somerset Miles Ann
Published: May 2014

Any project using wool should start with sheep. Ask those pupils wearing a jumper if they know what it is made from (don't worry that it probably isn't natural fibre, the answer you want is ‘wool’). Introduce pictures of, or books about, sheep to help explain where wool comes from.
Promoting spoken language skills
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

Sharing news with the group is an old favourite – and with good reason. News time enables children to talk about their own recent experiences, which is always the best subject matter for the inexperienced speaker.
Minestrone soup
Authors: Stobbs Nicola
Published: May 2014

This is a recipe for minestrone soup. Copy and laminate it to refer to when youre doing your cooking together. Before you start, ask children to compare the picture of the ingredient with the real object. This is called mapping
Come and play with me!
Authors: Jones Meg
Published: May 2014

Be imaginative in your role-play area by, over time, having a round-the-world tour, to demonstrate different lifestyles, cultures, and appearances. There are a number of different scenarios you can use: African hairdressers; Indian bazaar; travel agents; or a French café.
Food glorious food!
Authors: Jones Meg
Published: May 2014

Food plays a huge part in cultural considerations, and endless opportunities when working with children and their parents. Make the most of these learning and fun activities by choosing experiences and recipes with a variety of levels of diffi culty, from handling food, to nocook recipes, or a main dish, according to abilities of the children.
The value of colour
Authors: Hickman Gill
Published: May 2014

Colour is a topic that we can all cover in our work with small children. But why do we do it? How much do they understand? Gill Hickman questions some of our assumptions
Simchat Torah and the story of Creation
Authors: Howard Christine
Published: May 2014

Since one of the readings on Simchat Torah is the Creation story from Genesis 1-2:3, I have chosen the theme of creation for this article.
Wheeled toys
Authors: Jarvis Matthew
Published: May 2014

Tricycles and toys which need to be pushed or pedalled can build muscle strength, and improve fitness and co-ordination.
Literacy outdoors
Authors: Din Rubina
Published: May 2014

All children enjoy talking about things which are relevant to them. They like talking about their immediate environment and enjoy a real-life approach. The outdoor play area can provide opportunities to develop this in a context.
Jack the flying sailor
Authors: Williams Brenda
Published: May 2014

Jojo and Tiggy were both cosy in bed while, Bertie, their little dog, was curled up on a mat in the middle. Mummy had kissed them goodnight and promised that Grandpa would pop in to tell them a story.