bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autism in schools: the role of the school nurse
Authors: McNulty Phil
Published: May 2014

Autism is a life-long condition that affects the way a person communicates and relates to people around them. Autistic spectrum disorders affect approximately one in one hundred children in the UK, and four times as many boys as it does girls.
NICE guidance in atopic eczema in children
Authors: Dawber Steve
Published: May 2014

Atopic eczema is the most common form of eczema and is closely linked with asthma and hayfever. Symptoms include itchiness, overall dryness of the skin, redness and inflammation. Emollients, such as E45 cream, are the mainstay in managing atopic eczema.
Ensuring the SCPHN curriculum is fit for purpose
Authors: Everett Sue , Morris Tania , Kimble Helen , Dowling Kate , Buckley Carol , Mair Diana , Taylor Gemma , Pentelow Lisa , Puegeren Kim
Published: May 2014

The role of the Specialist Community Public Health Nurse is not only varied in content, but also constantly changing. The authors examine the view points of school nurses and health visitors, and considers how this has affected the development of a new curriculum.
Mind the gap…
Authors: Allen Betsy
Published: May 2014

Betsy Allen explores the perceived gap between theory and practice in health promotion relevant to school and public health nurses and student nurses, and discusses the development of a health promotion theory to practice workbook.
The osteoperosis time-bomb: the key to future bone health
Authors: More Judy
Published: May 2014

Judy More discusses children’s lifestyles in the UK, and how improving them may hold the key to preventing osteoperosis in later life. She outlines ways in which children can increase calcium and vitamin D in their daily lives, even if on a restricted diet.
Vitamin D: Is it time for a rethink?
Authors: Lowdon Jacqueline
Published: May 2014

Vitamin D plays a key role and is crucial for bone mineral density and calcium and phosphorous absorption. There is a need to set dietary reference values and give greater emphasis to dietary sources, including food fortification, to maximize bone mass in childhood and adolescence.
A joint appointed school nurse for an Independent Faith School
Authors: Coverdale Gill
Published: May 2014

In the next installment of this series of interviews about ‘alternative’ school nursing provision, Gill Coverdale talks with Sam Capstick, a recent SCPHN school nurse graduate and full-time joint appointed school nurse for an Independent Faith School in West Yorkshire
What boys want: gender sensitivity in the NHS
Authors: Watson Paul
Published: May 2014

Paul Watson offers his straight-forward, honest point of view about what it is like for a man to work in a female-oriented profession like school nursing, and the biased treatment he has sometimes received.
Raising the profile of school nurses in London
Authors: Godson Rosalind
Published: May 2014

Rosalind Godson reports on a new special interest group for school nurses in London. She highlights the key public health issues they address, government activities and the influence of school nurses.
Threadworms: Diagnosis and management
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Threadworms are a very common infestation in children. Jean Watkins discusses their life cycle, the symptoms and treatment. She also provides practical advice on how to avoid reinfection.
Paul Watson’s day
Authors: Watson Paul
Published: May 2014

07:10 Out of bed, wash, shave and get ready for work.
Anorexia nervosa: Diagnosis and management
Authors: Jackman Robert
Published: May 2014

Anorexia nervosa is a serious mental illness and can have severe physical consequences. Robert Jackman provides a brief overview of the condition, its symptoms and management.
Teaching tips for school nurses: Working together with teachers
Authors: Ainsworth Paul
Published: May 2014

In the first article of a series on teaching tips for delivering PSHE, Paul Ainsworth provides useful information for school nurses, with no previous classroom experience, on methods of delivery and suggests working together with teachers.
Supporting the siblings of life-limited children
Authors: Brown Erica
Published: May 2014

Having a life-limited sibling can seriously impair children’s wellbeing. Erica Brown provides an overview of emotional or physical responses that they may develop drawing on evidence from a 3-year project funded by The Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fund
School nursing in the UK: Where are we now?
Authors: Smith Fiona
Published: May 2014

Fiona Smith compares some of the results of the latest Royal College of Nursing survey of school nurses’ role and working conditions to one carried out in 2005.
Teaching tips for school nurses: Delivering effective group work
Authors: Ainsworth Paul
Published: May 2014

In the third article of a series on teaching tips for delivering PSHE, for school nurses with no previous classroom experience, Paul Ainsworth provides useful information on delivering effective group work.
Is anybody there? Supporting young people with psychosis
Authors: Day Patricia
Published: May 2014

Adolescence is a period of high risk for developing psychosis. School nurses could play a key role in supporting young people with this disabling and often misunderstood condition, through education, inclusion and empowerment.
School nursing conference report: ‘Valuing difference and diversity’
Authors: Richardson-Todd Barbara
Published: May 2014

Barbara Richardson-Todd provides us with an overview of the school nursing conference which took place in August, in London.
Management of faecal incontinence in children
Authors: Sanders Caroline , Bray Lucy
Published: May 2014

Faecal incontinence can have a serious impact on the emotional wellbeing of children and young people. The school nurse is ideally placed to help support them and their families to manage and cope with the complex issues related to soiling.
Managing childhood enuresis: An overview
Authors: Cox Elizabeth
Published: May 2014

Enuresis can have a profound effect on the psychological and social development of affected children and can put a strain on family life. Elizabeth Cox provides an overview of the assessment and management of the condition.
Bereavement, part 2: Working with adolescents
Authors: Weston Frances
Published: May 2014

In this fourth article in a series on different mental health issues affecting children and young people, Frances Weston looks at how bereavement affects adolescents.
Diagnosing type 2 diabetes in children and young people
Authors: Beckwith Sue
Published: May 2014

With the increase of the incidence of type 2 diabetes among young people it is important for school nurses to be well informed on the condition. Sue Beckwith provides an overview of its aetiology, symptoms and diagnosis.
Abortion: Procedures, law, and issues of confidentiality
Authors: Beddoes Pauline , James Emily
Published: May 2014

School nurses may be called upon to support and advise young people facing an unplanned pregnancy and considering the procedure, it is therefore important to be well informed on the treatment options, legal aspects and issues of confidentiality.
Health and education: Working together for a healthier future
Authors: Tabony Elaine
Published: May 2014

Elaine Tabony explains that as Primary Care Trusts search for new and innovative ways to tackle local health priorities, the school environment is proving to be an essential framework for delivering important social and public health messages.
School nursing conference report: ‘Listening, hearing and delivering’
Authors: Richardson-Todd Barbara
Published: May 2014

Barbara Richardson-Todd provides provides her interpretation on some of the key sessions of a school nursing conference which took place in Birmingham.
Partnership working to fund and develop school nursing leaflets
Authors: France Jo , Smith Trish
Published: May 2014

School nurses in Shropshire discuss how collaborating with the trust, local authority and young people allowed them to design and produce new and improved leaflets, informing children and young people of the valuable services they provide, that will hopefully stand the test of time.
Better understanding the commissioning process
Authors: Crabtree Elaine
Published: May 2014

It is crucial for school nurses to understand and become involved in the commissioning process so that they can contribute their expertise in the development of children and young people services.
When teachers need help: The Teacher Support Network
Authors: Stanley Julian
Published: May 2014

With the current work pressures and effects of the recession, school nurses may find themselves approached by teachers about issues affecting their personal health and wellbeing, and who are in need of support. Julian Stanley explains how the charity Teacher Support Network can help them.
Being a student again: Julie Martin-Hirsch’s day
Authors: Martin-Hirsch Julie
Published: May 2014

I started the Specialist Community Public Health Nurse: School Nurse (SCPHN-SN) course at Leeds Metropolitan University (LMU) in September 2009. As a registered nurse since 1986 and a midwife since 1989, and having already studied at LMU from 1991 to 1995 the thought of becoming a student again was both daunting and exciting. However, I do realise that I am in a privileged position with an enthusiastic course leader and a supportive, eager, community practice mentor.
Developing a bid proposal to advertise school nursing services
Authors: Pearson Natalie
Published: May 2014

‘As a practising school nurse facilitating a specialist practice mentor role, I have the opportunity to review assignments, research and audits on a regular basis. I felt that the piece of work below had to be shared with the wider professional community as an example of good practice.

I would encourage all child and adolescent professionals/students to share any research completed as the information may influence and inform care delivered to all children and young people.’
Prevention is better than cure: Reducing youth offending
Authors: Bishop Samantha , Coxhead John
Published: May 2014

Chartered psychologist Dr Sam Bishop and criminologist Dr John Coxhead argue that prevention of offending can be enhanced by empowering school professionals.
Forced marriage: Protecting the rights of young people
Authors: Henricson-Bell Olaf
Published: May 2014

In 2009, 1682 reportings of forced marriage were made to the Forced Marriage Unit. It is essential that school employees are aware of the possible warning signs and know what to do if a disclosure is made.
Combating cyber-bullying through peer mentoring
Authors: Welfare Jonathan
Published: May 2014

Bullying remains a widespread issue and can severely affect its victims. Jonathan Welfare, Chairman of Nominet Trust, discusses the success of CyberMentors, a peer mentoring scheme aimed at keeping children safe online.
The influence of deprivation on young parents
Authors: Smith Debbie
Published: May 2014

Young pregnancy remains high on the UK’s public health agenda. This article reviews current literature and considers the role of school nurses in helping to reduce adverse outcomes of young pregnancy. Reviewing work from the author’s PhD research, attention will be directed to how school nurses can intervene and help improve pregnancy and parenthood experiences for young people.
Using animal assisted therapy with children
Authors: Weston Frances
Published: May 2014

In this article, part of a series on different mental health issues affecting children and young people and counselling, Frances Weston looks at the benefits of an innovative way of working with children and young people.
The human papillomavirus vaccination programme
Authors: Wigin Rachel
Published: May 2014

Rachel Wigin comments on the HPV vaccination programme, and shares the experiences and progress of the programme in her area.
Encouraging physical activity through parkour
Authors: Edwardes Dan
Published: May 2014

Dan Edwardes explains the concept behind parkour and how this form of non-competitive sport can help engage all pupils in physical activity and have a postive impact on their health and wellbeing.
Supporting a healthy school meal service
Authors: Bruntse-Dahl Rikke
Published: May 2014

Healthy school meals can play a crucial role in the future health of children and young people and in helping reduce inequalities. Rikke Bruntse-Dahl explains the work of the Food for Life Partnerships and how you can get involved.
Overcoming cultural barriers in the NHS: Kennedy’s review
Authors: Crabtree Elaine
Published: May 2014

Elaine Crabtree looks at a review recently published by the Department of Health, ‘Getting it right for children and young people: Overcoming cultural barriers in the NHS so as to meet their needs’.
Planning PSHE lessons: Friendship and anger
Authors: Faber Krista
Published: May 2014

One of BJSN’s Teaching Tips columnists, Krista Faber, decided to dedicate this month’s page to lesson plans in the hope of providing readers with some time-saving resources at this busy time of the year.
A history of mental health and wellbeing, part 1
Authors: Wright Jane
Published: May 2014

In the writings of such scholars as Hippocrates, Plato, Polybus and Galen reveal a holistic approach to the workings of the mind and body. In the ancient world the body was viewed as a system closely connected to the natural world (Paster, 1997). The belief in the ‘humours’: blood (sanguine), phlegm, yellow bile (choler) and black bile (melancholy), was first described by Polybus around 400BC. These theories, were further developed by Galen around AD 150 and persisted into the 17th century (Culpeper, 1657). The humours were described as fluids contained and circulated in the blood and the theory was that if you took a sample of blood and allowed it to congeal, it would seperate into the four fluids. Good physical and mental health was acheived when there was balance between all of the humours. To maintain equilibrium, it was sometimes necessary to either remove fluid or add fluid depending upon the problem presented. For example, regimens or rules for healthy living took into account the humoural temperament of the people they were aimed at (Wear, 2000) One of the ways used to remove excessive or corrupt humours from the body was through the practice of blood-letting, which went on for many centuries. There is record of the use of venesection by some physicians in the 19th century for mental illness (see inset).
Looking at the rise of sexual risk taking in young people
Authors: Enson Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Sexual ill-health appears to be on the rise in Britain; one of the likely causes is an increase in sexual risk taking. Stephanie Enson looks at the concept of risk taking, current health promotion strategies, and suggests possible ways to help reduce sexual risk taking.
Developing the understanding of epilepsy among school staff
Authors: Gallagher Gill
Published: May 2014

Gill Gallagher explains the impact epilepsy can have on the school life of pupils with the condition, and how school nurses can help them by ensuring schools are better equipped to respond to these pupils’ needs and employees are adequately trained.
Education-based support for self-harming adolescents 2
Authors: Norman Amanda
Published: May 2014

This article is based on the author’s research dissertation for an MA in Interprofessional Healthcare Education. It is the second of two parts looking at educational support systems for young people experiencing self-harm. The first article focused on the rationale behind the study, its context in relation to practice, and its aims as well as its value to current school nursing and educational-based support for young people experiencing emotional difficulties.

This article concentrates on the review’s findings, providing insight into how these can be used in practice to best support young people, and highlights areas for future research.
Supporting young victims out of sexual exploitation
Authors: Blazey Laura
Published: May 2014

Awareness of sexual grooming and exploitation remains low among professionals working with children and young people. School nurses can play an important role through prevention, being able to recognize the tell tale signs and spreading awareness among school employees.
Female genital mutilation: What can school nurses do about it?
Authors: Robinson Estelle
Published: May 2014

In the UK over 24 000 girls are at risk of female genital mutilation. Estelle Robinson comments on the new multi-disciplinary guidelines that have recently been published as well as the important role school nurses can play in addressing FGM.
Supporting children with a stoma in the school setting
Authors: Bennett Yvonne
Published: May 2014

This article discusses children who have stomas going to school, their main anxieties, what affects their body image, the role of the paediatric stoma care nurse, the role of the school nurse and finishes off with a case study of a young boy with inflammatory bowel disease going to back to school after having formation of an ileostomy.
Supporting children with nocturnal enuresis
Authors: Norfolk Sally , Wootton Janet
Published: May 2014

Nocturnal enuresis can have a serious impact on a child’s self-esteem and emotional wellbeing. It is therefore important that school nurses are able to provide adequate support and information on the management of the condition to the child and his/her family.

This article aims to provide an overview of the condition, its assessment, and management.
Sexual health knowledge in Key Stages 3 and 4 in Wales
Authors: Attridge Stewart
Published: May 2014

This article discusses an audit of 308 contraception quizzes and 235 sexually transmitted infection (STI) quizzes. The quizzes were completed as part of a specialist sexual health lesson at schools and colleges in Cardiff. The lessons were conducted by a sexual health educator and the audit was designed to examine pupils’ existing sexual health knowledge before a specialist lesson. The audit measures Key Stage 3 and 4 students’ knowledge against the Welsh Assembly Government’s Framework for Personal and Social Education (PSE). Relevant educational and health research are critiqued to provide background rationale for the audit. The results show an increase in sexual health knowledge from Year 9. Males have lower levels of contraception knowledge when compared to their female classmates. Both sexes have more knowledge of STIs than contraception. The audit recommends greater involvement of school nurses in sexual health education, the creation of a strategy for school nurses involved in sexual education and further exploration of methods to assess sexual health learning in the classroom.
Consent for the HPV vaccine and Gillick competence
Authors: Griffiths Richard
Published: May 2014

School nurses are the main group of health professionals charged with giving the HPV vaccine to 12–13-year-old girls. Consent lies at the heart of the lawfulness of that immunization and the school nurse can either proceed with the consent of a person acting under parental responsibility or on the consent of a Gillick competent patient. This article considers the requirements for Gillick competence and highlights the factors school nurses must consider when determining whether a child is competent to give consent to treatment.
A qualitative study of headache in school children
Authors: Kernick David , Reinhold Deborah , Stone Christine
Published: May 2014

Background: Despite a high prevalence and substantial impact of headache, the needs of young sufferers often remain unmet. The aim of this paper is to describe a qualitative investigation by lay researchers (school students), which explores the experience of fellow students with troublesome headache and provides information to help reduce the burden of headache in the school setting.

Method: A purposeful sample participated in semi-structured interviews undertaken by students and taped for thematic analysis by students and professional researchers. The setting was a large state secondary school in Exeter, UK.

Results: Four themes were identified: health seeking behaviour, emotional response to headache, attitude of others towards the problem and ideas for help.

Conclusion: Useful insights can be obtained from developing a research team of patients and professional researchers. A number of children suffer with headache at school, do not get help and in general are fatalistic about their problem. An awareness of the impact of headache in schools is important and simple measures are available that could help reduce its effects. Further qualitative work is needed with teachers, school nurses and parents to reduce the burden of headache in this setting.
Discussing mobile phone safety with young people
Authors: Starkey Sarah
Published: May 2014

The UK Chief Medical Officers recommend that children and young people under the age of 16 years use mobile phones for essential purposes only. But many young people use their mobile or smart phones throughout the day and keep them switched on close to their bodies during the night. Simple steps to reduce exposure to the electromagnetic fields emitted from wireless gadgets may help to protect long-term health. Raising awareness of wireless technology safety allows young people to make informed choices and to take responsibility for this area of their health and wellbeing.
School nursing, a priority for child-centred public health
Authors: Coates Maggie
Published: May 2014

This article relates to school nursing in the north east of England. It describes an evaluation of the public health role of the school nurse and explores current practice. It highlights some of the difficulties this group of practitioners encounter in terms of their public health role. It also explores why school nurses may find their role challenging in the context of everyday clinical practice, government proposals, reduction in the training and education activities and pupil to school nurse ratios. The notion of a disparity between actual and potential practice is the focus for discussion. The role evaluation enabled a fuller picture of current workload activities and highlighted implications for school nursing practice. A clearer pattern of practice emerged where school nursing teams identified a multitude of role activities and highlighted some of the difficulties of their diverse roles within today's public health arena.
Enabling young people to talk about health and wellbeing
Authors: Davies Amy
Published: May 2014

Talking about health and wellbeing issues can be difficult for young people. In this article, Amy Davies discusses a new resource developed by the National Children's Bureau and Our Life to facilitate these discussions.
Differentiating common bacterial skin infections
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Bacterial infections can spread rapidly in the school setting. In this article, part of a series on dermatology, Jean Watkins offers practical information on common bacterial skin infections, including an overview of presentation, complications and management.
Reducing alcohol harm: Early intervention and prevention
Authors: Lacey Joanne
Published: May 2014

Dr Joanne Lacey discusses brief alcohol interventions to reduce the harm(s) to health associated with hazardous and harmful drinking. As evidence increases regarding the efficacy of these interventions, attention on how to implement them and address the barriers are discussed.
Reducing the impact of allergic rhinitis
Authors: Fitzsimons Roisin , Swan Kate , Roberts Graham
Published: May 2014

Allergic rhinitis can have a serious impact on children and young people's health and wellbeing, and affect their learning. This article looks at the pathophysiology of allergic rhinitis, its impact on asthma and quality of life, as well as treatment options.
Diabetes in children and young people: Type 1, where are we now?
Authors: Mullier Caroline
Published: May 2014

This article, the first of a short series on diabetes, provides an overview of diabetes in children and young people looking at the prevalence, signs and symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, targets and the support needed in order to help meet these.

School nurses can play an important role in supporting children and young people with diabetes and it is important that they have a good understanding of the condition and work together with paediatric diabetes specialist teams to improve outcomes.
Developing effective public health nursing practice: The nurse educator's role
Authors: Klinkhamer Frits
Published: May 2014

With governmental and organisational drives to improve quality and outcomes, developing and assessing staff competence is essential. Current school nursing workforce complexities, including differing skills and qualifications and an increased use of non-nursing staff, pose challenges to the delivery of effective public health nursing interventions. Because the workforce operates predominantly unsupervised, mainly in the school setting, organisations may be unclear as to the quality of care being delivered.

The nurse educator could play an important role in public health nursing by helping to remedy these issues. The nurse educator has an in-depth understanding of teaching and learning processes, including andragogy, learning styles and theories. Nurse educators can also act as leaders and change agents, and have the scope to work alongside staff in the clinical setting to develop, support and assess clinical practice using competency frameworks and creating a learning environment.

Ultimately the use of nurse educators could help provider organisations remain the service of choice by offering quality public health-care in today's competitive landscape.
Looking at the impact of vitamin D defciency
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: May 2014

Over the last decade there has been an important increase in the number of cases of rickets diagnosed in the UK. In this article, Dorothy Lepkowska looks at the importance of reducing vitamin D deficiency.
Symptoms and treatment of psoriasis: A clinical overview
Authors: Renton Carla
Published: May 2014

Psoriasis affects around 2% (approximately 1.8 million people) of the UK population. Although psoriasis is often thought of as a condition affecting older adults, it can occur at any point in the lifespan, and around one third of those with the condition experience their first incidence of psoriasis before the age of 16 years. While psoriasis can be managed with effective treatment, it cannot be cured and is often lifelong. This article offers a clinical overview of the different types of psoriasis, and the various treatment options that are available.
Bullying increasingly listed as responsible for eating disorders
Authors: George Mary
Published: May 2014

A survey carried out by Beat in November found that bullying is increasingly responsible for eating disorders. This article looks at the results of the survey and the role school nurses can play in supporting children and young people with eating disorders.
Traumatic brain injury in children part 1—initial assessment and management
Authors: Braine Mary E , Smith Joanna
Published: May 2014

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) as a result of road traffic accident or falls is the leading causes of death or disability in children. Children and young people frequency access health services as a result of a TBI. Consequently many nurses working with children and young people, in both primary and secondary care settings will care for a child following a TBI and have a role to play in accident prevention.

Understanding the initial stabilisation of a child who has sustained a TBI, and the principles of pre-hospital management are essential to ensure optimal care of the child and family. This article provides an overview of TBI and its management in children and the key role of primary care practitioners in relation to the identification of TBI and accident prevention.
Supporting children and young people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in school
Authors: Bacon Carol
Published: May 2014

Obesity in childhood increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D). Those children diagnosed with T2D are more likely to die young due to the increased risks associated with cardiovascular disease and obesity. This article aims to: support practitioners working in schools and the community to identify those children and young people at greatest risk of developing T2D, encourage early referal to a specialist diabetes team and discuss the support children diagnosed with T2D may need in the school setting through a case study.
Treating nocturnal enuresis in children and young people
Authors: Jacques Eileen
Published: May 2014

Nocturnal enuresis can be a distressing condition for children and young people, and their families. Successful treatment, resulting in children becoming dry at night, can make a real difference to their lives and futures, and may help reduce the incidence of emotional and behavioural problems associated with long-term bedwetting. It is therefore vital that school nurses have a broad knowledge of the subject and are familiar with the treatments and how they work. This article provides a brief overview of the condition, its incidence, and treatment.
Teenage pregnancy: Identifying young people aspiring or ambivalent to parenthood
Authors: Dixon Vicky
Published: May 2014

Planned teenage parenthood or ambivalence towards parenthood is an aspect of teenage pregnancy that is largely ignored in academia, politics and nursing. This article seeks to highlight the existence of young people with pregnancy intention and potential barriers that may prevent these young people from being identified in practice. Reference is made to Solent Healthcare's pilot of a brief intervention tool that targets young people with pregnancy intention. The social context of teenage pregnancy is explored, as this may influence school nurses’ attitudes to teenage pregnancy. School nurses are encouraged to critically reflect on their perceptions of teenage parenting.
Getting the measure of chronic fatigue syndrome
Authors: Pemberton Sue
Published: May 2014

This article describes a research study that was undertaken to determine the relationship between measures of function, symptoms and perceived health status in chronic fatigue syndrome, using a chronic fatigue syndrome checklist (Lloyd et al, 1990) and a social adjustment scale (Weissman and Bothwell, 1976), and to ook at how they have been used in the debate regarding the condition.
An evaluation of leisure seating for severely disabled children
Authors: Pain Helen , Pascoe Jennifer , Gore Sally , Jackson Sue , McLellan D Lindsay
Published: May 2014

Those who spend many hours in a wheelchair benefit from having periods in alternative seating. For some, standard upholstered chairs do not provide enough support, so chairs with additional features are required. There are chairs offering such facilities on the market, but before the study reported in this article, they had not been systematically evaluated to determine their relative strengths and weaknesses.
An overview of manipulation: 2
Authors: Lewis Barry J , Thiel Haymo W
Published: May 2014

The first part of this overview (Vol 4(3) 1997, p. 118) discussed definitions, patient assessment and application of manipulation as it is practiced by most modern manipulative practitioners. In the second part, we will be considering indications and contraindications for treatment, evidence and established guidelines from a chiropractic perspective.
Physiotherapy recruitment and retention: a crisis
Authors: Newman Garry
Published: May 2014

Many NHS trusts have been experiencing difficulties in recruiting physiotherapists for a number of years. In many cases, high vacancy rates and increased turnover among the physiotherapy workforce have reached crisis point. Recently conducted research, including a survey carried out by The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (unpublished data, 1997), shows that the problem has worsened in recent years and, more importantly, highlights the fact that there is no easy solution to the crisis.
Individual care review: accomplishments and potential
Authors: Ashfield Elaine
Published: May 2014

This article presents the case of Peter, a male who exhibits behaviour defined within the parameters of autism. The author outlines how over a period of time he has been provided with support, enabling his individualization and leading to an increased level of independence and subsequent improvement in his quality of life.
Pressure-relieving equipment: criteria and selection
Authors: Fletcher Jacqueline
Published: May 2014

The selection of equipmnt for pressure sore prevention and management is extremely complex, with many variables to consider. There is a considerable lack of data to support the use of individual pieces of equipment, and so additional criteria need to be considered. A logical approach, taking into account the objectives of treatment, the modality of action, and the resources available, enables an optimal choice to be reached which should satisfy both the patient and the staff involved.
Growing to adulthood: a young man's perspective
Authors: Spurgeon Vivienne
Published: May 2014

Edward is my second son. He will be 21 years old next May; 2½ years younger than his brother James. Edward is 6ft 5ins tall, an easy going young man who makes and keeps friends easily. He is happy for me to talk to you about him.
Pharmacological aspects of steroid injection therapy
Authors: Longworth Steve
Published: May 2014

Many regional locomotor disorders can be treated rapidly and effectively by the local injection of a steroid mixed with a local anaesthetic. In the hands of a competent practitioner who is aware of the benefits, indications, contraindications and hazards of this treatment, as well as the place of injection therapy within the full spectrum of rehabilitation, this form of treatment is greatly appreciated by patients and clinicians because it is rapidly effective.
Chronic benign headache: causes and classification
Authors: O'Driscoll M-L
Published: May 2014

This article looks at the epidemiology and pathophysiology of chronic benign headache. It examines the diagnostic difficulties that this condition poses to the clinician. It then considers the International Headache Society classification and diagnostic criteria for headache and asks what contribution this work makes to the diagnosis of chronic benign headache.
Measuring disability: a critical analysis of the Barthel Index
Authors: Hogan Kevin , Orme Sarah
Published: May 2014

Measuring disability in terms of physical abilities only is no longer appropriate when definitions of disability include social and psychological dimensions and rehabilitation focuses on incorporating users' needs into service design and evaluation. A critical review of the Barthel Index as an exemplar of physical measures is presented with alternative approaches discussed.
Clinician, update thyself: assessing the value of local training courses
Authors: Shillitoe Richard , Eltringham Simon , Green David
Published: May 2014

Continuing professional development can be difficult for members of small clinical professions because it is so specialist. This article describes how a group of clinical psychologists set out to assess the value and outcomes of locally organized events. It is hoped that the findings are applicable to other clinical professionals.
Conductive education-based physiotherapy in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Bandyopadhyay S , Beynon J , Hallam S , Corne J , O’Mahony MS
Published: May 2014

This study examined the uptake and effectiveness of a conductive educationbased physiotherapy programme among older patients with Parkinson's disease attending day hospital. Of patients offered the programme 80% participated, of whom 85% completed the 10-week programme. Mobility scores improved significantly in all patients. Improvements were maintained at 3 months.
Stressful expectations of junior occupational therapists: 2
Authors: Rugg Sue
Published: May 2014

In the first article of this two-part series, the author reviewed the background literature on occupational stress and therapists' expectations of their work. This article develops this material by reporting a study that explored the interaction of these variables in a group of occupational therapists who qualified from St Loye's School of Health Studies in 2000.
The National Patient Safety Agency allied health professionals project
Authors: Thompson Linda
Published: May 2014

Ensuring the safety of everyone who comes into contact with health services is one of the most important challenges facing health-care professionals worldwide. Patient safety is a key component of The NHS Plan (Department of Health, 2000a) and a major strand of the NHS quality and clinical governance agendas.
Clinical specialisms: patient empowerment or professional control?
Authors: Christie Alison , Cross Vinette
Published: May 2014

This study surveyed physiotherapy undergraduates' perceptions of the control ethos of physiotherapeutic specialisms, and investigated whether they preferred a client-centred or a professional-powered model of working.
Fall management and prevention: a day hospital perspective
Authors: McQueen Jean M
Published: May 2014

The aim of this pilot project was to establish and evaluate a multidisciplinary health promotion and education programme aimed at preventing falls in the elderly. The overall objective was to plan and provide a scheme based on therapy, rehabilitation and health education.
Rehabilitation and the importance of partnerships
Authors: Mott Sarah
Published: May 2014

Rehabilitation is all about partnerships; those between clients and therapists (in nursing, medicine and allied health), therapists and therapists, and family and therapists. Without partnerships, rehabilitation becomes one-sided and the strongest person takes the lead – and with clients recovering from illness or trauma, the strongest person isn't likely to be them.
Working with people who have HIV and AIDS: a health professional's guide
Authors: Thomas Joanne , McArthur Margaret
Published: May 2014

The incidence of HIV and AIDS continues to rise internationally. Advances in treatment have decreased mortality and increased life expectancy for people with a positive diagnosis.

This article details the epidemiology of HIV and AIDS and, while highlighting the low transmission risk to therapists, outlines the precautions that health-care professionals should take when dealing with body fluids of patients. The authors advise on how therapists should sensitively treat patients with HIV or AIDS, covering important ethical and confidentiality issues.
The Lomax Active wheelchair range: intermediate provision for clients with spinal injury
Authors: J Linley Emma
Published: May 2014

The author was asked to share her experience of the Lomax Active wheelchair range, in relation to working within the specific field of spinal cord injury.

From clinical experience, it is the author's opinion that, on returning home from initial rehabilitation, the majority of this client group benefits from a relatively high specification wheelchair that allows them to maintain as independent a lifestyle as possible. Such provision allows clients to optimize their potential and promotes reintegration into the community, while allowing the clients to identify their long-term wheelchair specification requirements.
Stroke treatment for everyone: the team approach
Authors: Kilbride Cherry
Published: May 2014

Stroke Treatment for Every Person (STEP) began at the Royal Free NHS Trust in November 2000. This initiative, comprising 12 acute and 15 rehabilitation stroke beds, led to the formation of a recognized and respected multiprofessional stroke service that is implementing the National Clinical Guidelines for Stroke (Intercollegiate Working Party, 2002) and delivering the National Service Framework for Older People (Department of Health, 2001). The service has also been recently cited for its model of teamwork in the new government guide ‘What makes a good stroke service and how do we get there?’ (Department of Health, 2002).
BioCote technology: providing complete antimicrobial protection for the bathroom
Authors: D Barrett Tony
Published: May 2014

The control of the spread of infection is a concern not only in health-care associations but in all public and domestic areas. This article describes the effectiveness of BioCote, a unique antimicrobial solution that has been incorporated into the full range of components of ESL Healthcare’s showering equipment. Test results show that BioCote is extremely effective against Aspergillus niger and other commonly found microorganisms by using a chemical agent to inhibit bacterial growth.
Provision of assistive technology in Scandinavia: a system to strive for
Authors: Winchcombe Maggie
Published: May 2014

Since the turn of the century, the term ‘assistive technology’ has been gaining credence in academic and political circles throughout the world. It is defined in the UK as:
An assessment of the Quickie Classic range of lightweight wheelchairs
Authors: Collins Fiona
Published: May 2014

Selecting a wheelchair to meet the needs of individual users involves a number of considerations, such as the diagnosis or disability of the person, his or her projected long-term needs and his or her functional ability, size and sitting ability. Many of the current NHS wheelchairs are heavy and cumbersome and in some instances limit the user’s ability to remain independent.

Many clients are provided with or purchase a lightweight wheelchair. However, at the budget end of the market, the wheelchairs available offer limited adjustability to meet the changing needs of the user. The Quickie Classic range of lightweight wheelchairs offers a wide range of adjustment, allowing users to purchase a highly adjustable chair at a modest price.
The end of an era
Authors: Griggs Amy
Published: May 2014

National Childminding Association (NCMA) chair Susanna Dawson, recently announced her intention to stand down next September. Amy Griggs caught up with her at the NCMA conference to hear her thoughts on the current
Book Reviews
Authors: Hodgman Liz
Published: May 2014

Our reviewers bring you another colourful selection of favourite books.
Your family's home too
Authors: Griffin Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Griffin starts this new series on maintaining professional practice in a home-based setting by reflecting on some of the issues involved in working in the place where you and your family live.
Having a jam!
Authors: Jones Michael
Published: May 2014

Exploring a large collection of jam jar lids with children of all ages can be great fun, as well as giving adults a chance to discover what children know.
Readers' stories: Celebrating in style!
Authors: Haigh Pam
Published: May 2014

Send your letters to: The Editor, Child Care, St Jude‘s Church, Dulwich Road, Herne Hill, London, SE24 0PB Fax: 020 7978 8319 email: childcare@markallengroup.com
Lego competition
Authors: Stone Tunja
Published: May 2014

Send your letters to: The Editor, Child Care, St Jude's Church, Dulwich Road, Herne Hill, London, SE24 0PB Fax: 020 7978 8319 email: childcare@markallengroup.com
A world in your home
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Dr Stephanie Thornton considers the importance of developing fantasy play and explains how the home can provide inspiration.
The sock curriculum
Authors: Griffin Sue
Published: May 2014

In the second of our series on aspects of professional practice in a home-based setting, Sue Griffin thinks about the home setting as a learning environment.
In the driving seat
Authors: Francis-Pester Dawn
Published: May 2014

Dawn Francis-Pester focuses on childminders who drive. She discusses paperwork, safety issues, and how to avoid distractions.
Child-initiated learning
Authors: Lindon Jennie
Published: May 2014

Chartered psychologist Jennie Lindon discusses approaches to child-initiated and adult-led learning and gives accessible examples of best practice.
Making a distance book
Authors: Hodgman Liz
Published: May 2014

Learning about shape, space and measures can be turned into a fun activity that will also engage children who enjoy more physical activities.
Handling materials safely
Authors: Hodgman Liz
Published: May 2014

Some activities that enable children to learn how tools should be used correctly.
Supporting quality training
Authors: Turner Stuart
Published: May 2014

Stuart Turner, director of professional standards at the National Childminding Association, outlines why he supports the Early Years Qualifications Workforce Audit Tool and explains how it will help childminders.
Beep, beep! Time for car-play
Authors: Trundle Holly
Published: May 2014

Getting down on the floor to play cars is a chance for role-play and for you to introduce and develop problem solving, reasoning and numeracy skills while having fun together.
Your professional image
Authors: Griffin Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Griffn rounds up our short series of articles on working in a in a home setting with some thoughts about how others see your work.
Flying high in the sky
Authors: Garner Lynne
Published: May 2014

A focus on the extraordinary achievements of female pilot Amy Johnson, whose epic fight from England to Australia took place during May 1930.
Staying safe and sound
Authors: Parks Mel
Published: May 2014

With reports of parents and nurseries in Paris and the US planning to microchip children to keep track of them (The Guardian, 9 November 2010), Mel Parks asked three childminders to share their more traditional methods for keeping children safe.
Print and press
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

Printing is a fun and versatile art activity that works well for any age group – and all you need is paint, paper and something to print with.
Gaining independence
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Dr Stephanie Thornton gives advice on what is normal and what isn't as children develop independence, and explains what you can do to help.
Some top stress-busters
Authors: Braal Bernice de
Published: May 2014

Bernice de Braal looks at the stresses that home workers can encounter and offers some tried and tested stress-busting techniques.
Providing inspiration
Authors: Bayram Liz
Published: May 2014

Support for childminders and nannies to develop the quality of care they provide is crucial to ensuring we give children the best start in life, writes Liz Bayram.
Going green!
Authors: Hodgman Liz
Published: May 2014

Some fun activities to get children into the habit of taking care of the environment.
The Diploma: An overview
Authors: Riddall-Leech Sheila
Published: May 2014

This article is the first in a series of five explaining the level 3 qualification that is now available to all people who want to work with children and young people from birth-to-19-years-old.
Quality costs money
Authors: Pritchard Tricia
Published: May 2014

Tricia Pritchard calls on the Government to provide greater financial support to the early years sector.
Spotting a gifted child
Authors: de Braal Bernice
Published: May 2014

Babies aren’t born with a label on their forehead saying ‘genius’, so how can you tell if a child is gifted? Bernice de Braal investigates.
The festival of Eid-ul-Fitr
Authors: Garner Lynne
Published: May 2014

Some information about this Muslim celebration, together with activities that you can share with all children in your setting.
Wheelie fun!: Trunki £29.99-£39.99
Authors: Somerton Maud
Published: May 2014

This month, our reviewers take a look at some resources perfect for the movers and shakers in your setting.
A battle won, more ahead
Authors: Fawcett Liz
Published: May 2014

Liz Fawcett rounds up the latest childminding developments in Northern Ireland.
A magical balloon ride
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: May 2014

Some high flying ideas to get your imaginations soaring!
Painting and PD!
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

A look at how you can support emerging physical devlopment creatively.
Home-based unit: Part 1
Authors: Ridall-Leech Sheila
Published: May 2014

Sheila Ridall-Leech offers advice on the first two learning outcomes for the Level 3 Diploma unit ‘Understand how to set up a home-based childcare service’.
Funky junk time!
Authors: Sharpe Deborah
Published: May 2014

Using recycled products for craft is both green and economical. Here are a few activities to encourage imaginative play.