bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Should school health services become social marketers?
Authors: Croghan Emma
Published: May 2014

The Department of Health suggests that health services can play a significant role in marketing the idea of positive health choices. School nurses are ideally placed to influence children but to be successful they need to understand the socializaton process and the social marketing approach.
Tackling obesity at schools in Birmingham
Authors: Haywood Kevin
Published: May 2014

The Heart of Birmingham Teaching Primary Care Trust joins forces with Aston Villa football club to address the worrying trend in childhood obesity. The innovative Villa Vitality project teaches children about making healthy choices and helps to make children adopt a healthier lifestyle.
A modernization structure for school nursing
Authors: Lancaster Kath
Published: May 2014

Part one addressed the design of a health needs assessment model which provides school nursing teams with the data to evidence one-to-one intervention. Part two evaluates the implementation of the model and addresses whether school nurses have the support structures to make use of it.
Update from the Nursing and Midwifery Council
Authors: Plastow Liz
Published: May 2014

Liz Plastow provides an overview of the current goings on at the Nursing and Midwifery Council, reminding all school nurses with a specialist practice qualification that they should now be on the specialist community public health nursing part of the Register.
Mental health needs of looked after children
Authors: White Sharon
Published: May 2014

Looked after children suffer more from mental health difficulties than children from private households. With around 64% of children in care being affected by mental health issues, it is important to try to discover what can be done to change it.
Nutrition for active kids
Authors: Valentine Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Childhood is a period of rapid growth, when chidren are active and require a varied and balanced diet to cater for their dietary needs. This article offers practical advice for school nurses in supporting teachers, parents and children regarding food intake throughout the school day.
The MEND Programme: tackling childhood obesity
Authors: Sacher Paul , Swain Caroline
Published: May 2014

The MEND programme is a community-based approach to tackling obesity. Its work has proved to be very successful in helping children learn to lead a healthier lifestyle and School Nurses could have an important role in the programme delivery.
Caring for young carers
Authors: Fox Alex
Published: May 2014

Every school nurse comes into contact with young carers but in many cases the child’s caring role will remain hidden. This article will provide the information that every school nurse needs to identify young carers and the risks to their health, education and wellbeing.
The application of a risk management tool to independent prescribing by school nurses
Authors: Day Patricia
Published: May 2014

Head lice are very common problem in young children, and although they are considered harmless they can cause embarrassment and distress to families. School nurses are available to give advice and reassurance to worried parents and prescribe treatment for head lice.
Acne vulgaris and its management
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Acne vulgaris is a common skin disease that can affect the majority of people at some point in their life, particularly adolescents and young adults. It can cause physical and emotional problems for young people, so it is important that they are informed of their options in treating it.
Female genital mutilation: a complex dilemma
Authors: Obadina ‘Seye
Published: May 2014

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is the excision or tissue removal of any part of the female genitalia for non-medical reasons. School nurses may be able to recognise the signs of a girl about to undergo FGM and they have a duty of care to report these suspected practices.
Talking to children about cancer
Authors: Donaghy Katherine
Published: May 2014

Teaching children about cancer is essential in today’s society. Learning the facts ensures that children will find it easier to ask questions or talk about their concerns. One in three people will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives, so creating the opportunity for discussion is vital.
Sustainable management of head lice: the role of the school nurse
Authors: Ibarra Joanna
Published: May 2014

It has been argued that unless families learn to monitor treatment outcomes using a reliable louse detection method, lice will continue to circulate. Where schools introduce parents to the Bug Buster Kit, and encourage pupils to motivate parents to take part in National Bug Busting Days, this makes the process fun.
Bringing epilepsy out of the shadows
Authors: Cleaver Amanda
Published: May 2014

Epilepsy is a complex condition, but it affects many children in Britain. Therefore it is important that school staff are aware of what an epileptic seizure is and how to deal with it if a student experiences one while at school.
Developing a knowledge base: Caring for children with HIV
Authors: Jaroszewicz Rebecca
Published: May 2014

There are over 1000 children who are HIV-positive, but those who choose to disclose their status are often discriminated against and bullied. School nurses are in a good position to educate people about caring for children with HIV, but at the moment it is not emphasized in sex education.
School nurses in the ‘sin bin’
Authors: Streeting Jessica
Published: May 2014

Many school health professionals will have had the opportunity to work with vulnerable children who do not get on well within the mainstream school environment. These children provide new challenges for school nurses and a chance to learn more about their feelings and their problems.
A staff nurse in a 0-19 years children's public health team
Authors: Rogers Fiona
Published: May 2014

Fiona Rogers’ working week is extremely varied, ranging from days spent on her course at Leeds Metropolitan University, to running drop-in services for students at high school. She tells the BJSN about the enjoyable challenges that she has experienced during her training.
Meningitis and septicaemia: Not yet defeated
Authors: Perrin Rachel , Glennie Linda
Published: May 2014

Meningitis and septicaemia strike without warning and can kill in hours; it can bring a healthy child near death within 24 hours. Few infectious diseases have such a devastating impact, and even with the best care, the fatality rate for bacterial meningitis and septicaemia is high, taking hundreds of lives in the UK each year.
School meals: Helping young bones
Authors: O’Brien Melanie
Published: May 2014

New mandatory standards for all food and drink served to school pupils in England are now in place. The aim is to increase vitamins and minerals (including calcium) in pupil’s diets, while decreasing the amounts of fat, sugar and salt
Loudmouth: Theatre in education
Authors: Bridges Caroline
Published: May 2014

Loudmouth are a theatre company that create and run education and training programmes, supplying interactive programmes for young people on personal, social and health education and accessible training for adults and health professionals to aid personal and professional development.
Activity for bone health
Authors: Brooke-Wavell Katherine , Stensel David J
Published: May 2014

Most of the peak bone mass is attained during childhood and adolescence. Exercise can enhance bone gains, particularly during early puberty, and some benefit of childhood exercise may persist even after exercise ceases. Many children and adolescents may benefit from increasing exercise participation.
Issues around integration
Authors: Richardson-Todd Barbara
Published: May 2014

Children’s health and wellbeing are top of the government’s priorities and a number of programmes have been developed in recent years to benefit young people. Practitioners are being encouraged to work together in integrated teams where communication and shared vision are essential for success.
Dermatology in schools: Understanding skin conditions
Authors: Lawton Sandra
Published: May 2014

Dermatological infections and disorders can seriously impair a child's wellbeing because they are obvious to other people. Sandra Lawton provides an overview of some skin conditions that may affect children.
Teachers’ views of their role in emergency first aid at school
Authors: Crouchman Carolyn M
Published: May 2014

There is currently no requirement for teachers to be trained in first aid in the UK, yet teachers have ‘in loco parentis’ responsibility for students’ health and wellbeing. Carolyn M Crouchman conducted a survey of 20 teachers of children aged 11 years and over to find out their views.
The aims of the National Forum of School Health Educators
Authors: Sherwin Sarah
Published: May 2014

Sarah Sherwin explains the aims and works of the National Forum of School Health Educators, which promotes professional development for school nurses. She highlights an upcoming conference.
Send for the school nurse
Authors: Tarleton Raymond
Published: May 2014

A headteacher’s point of view on the importance of school nurses.
Supporting children and young people with epilepsy
Authors: Godwin Pam
Published: May 2014

Epilepsy is a very complex condition but skilled care and support make a great difference to the quality of life of any person with epilepsy. School nurses can play an import role in supporting children and young people
An overview of the school nursing role in Sweden
Authors: Fagerholt Gunilla
Published: May 2014

As the UK considers the current situation regarding school nursing, Gunilla Fagerholt offers a different perspective on the possible shape of school health services with an overview of the Swedish school nurse’s role.
Providing epilepsy training to school nurses: Pam Godwin’s day
Authors: Godwin Pam
Published: May 2014

06.00 My alarm goes off and I am out of bed and in the shower. I get dressed and grab a cup of coffee and manage to drink about half of it before checking the clock and having a panic that I may get caught in traffic and arrive late. I rush out of the door and jump in the car.
Helping bereaved children and young people
Authors: Brown Erica
Published: May 2014

Every year thousands of children face bereavement through the death of a relative or friend. The support they receive is likely to have a profound effect on how they are able to adapt to loss and change throughout their lives.
Epilepsy part 3: Planning for emergencies
Authors: Flower Diane
Published: May 2014

In the third article of a series, Diane Flower looks at safety issues in school activities for children with epilepsy, seizure triggers, and emergency planning in schools.
London Assembly issues recommendations on tackling alcohol misuse by young people
Authors: Voogd Caroline
Published: May 2014

A major report on alcohol misuse issue along young people in London has revealed some alarming statistics.
Type 1 diabetes, part 2: Managing the condition
Authors: Thornton Helen
Published: May 2014

Helen Thornton explains how school nurses can help support children and young people with diabetes in schools, and how their needs change as they grow.
Working as a school nursing lecturer: Sarah Sherwin’s day
Authors: Sherwin Sarah
Published: May 2014

05.30 Alarm goes off. Get up with husband Paul and both get ready for work.
Understanding obsessive compulsive disorder
Authors: Lang Katie , Krebs Georgina , Stokes Caroline , Turner Cynthia
Published: May 2014

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) can severely impair children and young people’s academic performance as well as their social life. School nurses can help identify suspected cases of OCD as well as support those suffering from the condition.
How do students who smoke and drink respond to the school nurse?
Authors: Borup Ina K , Holstein Bjørn E
Published: May 2014

Aim:

to examine if students who smoke and drink alcohol report more or less benefit from an annual health dialogue with a school nurse than students without this risk behaviour.

Method:

The study was one of the Danish contributions to the international collaborative Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study. A random sample of students in the fifth, seventh, and ninth grade (on average 11.8, 13.8 and 15.8 years of age) in schools in Denmark, answered a questionnaire, (response rate 87%, n=5 205). The independent variables were ‘How often do you smoke at present?’ and a combined variable of overall frequency of drinking. Perceived outcome of the dialogue was measured as: reflected on the dialogue; discussed the content with parents; followed the advice of the nurse; visited the nurse again.

Results:

Risk behaviour (smoking, drinking alcohol, and having experience with being drunk) is associated with lower odds for reflecting about the content of the dialogue with the school nurse, discussion of the content with parents, and for following the school nurse’s advice. However, risk behaviour is associated with higher odds for visiting the school nurse again but only in relation to smoking behaviour.
Effectiveness of school-based substance misuse programmes
Authors: Kell Billie
Published: May 2014

Aims:

To identify the aspects of harm reduction school-based substance misuse programmes for children and young people that are effective and those that are ineffective according to the literature.

Methods:

A review of the literature using four key databases (OVID, CINAHL, PubMed and Google Scholar) was undertaken to identify relevant articles.

Results:

A total of 12 papers were identified as relevant. From these the following categories emerged: approach of programmes and/or content of programme, teaching and teachers, children and young people, and guidance and/or recommendations for schools. For each of these categories aspects were identified that made the programme effective or ineffective.

Conclusions:

Interactive skills focused programmes were the most effective form of school-based interventions for the prevention of early drug use in children and young people.
Change and transition: Navigating the journey
Authors: Mclean Christine
Published: May 2014

In the current climate of cuts the health service is set to undergo a major overhaul, and the school nursing role is likely to be affected. In this second article, Christine McLean looks introduces a five step framework for overseeing transition.
Developing collaborative working through teaching
Authors: Muir Fiona , J McTaggart Irene , Bradley Sally
Published: May 2014

Interprofessional education for health professionals and multi-agency working has been moving up the political and professional agenda. Currently, Student Selected Components (SSCs) are not an integral part of the nursing curriculum. This article evaluates the Doctor and Nurse as Teacher SSC offered by the School of Medicine in conjunction with the School of Nursing in a University in Scotland, and aims to help inform whether SSCs should be included in the new nursing curriculum.
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis: Managing the condition
Authors: Kelly Jane , Beresford Michael W
Published: May 2014

Children diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) should expect to have a disease that is well controlled, and if needed to be on medication that has minimal side effects, enabling them to maintain a normal lifestyle along with their peers. Early aggressive treatment results in rapid induction of disease control, prevents joint damage, maximises physical function and helps the patient achieve a normal lifestyle. The aim is complete disease control and zero tolerance for inflammation. Early and appropriate use of intra-articular corticosteroid injections, judicious use of systemic steroids, and early commencement of methotrexate can significantly improve patient's quality of life and outcome. The advent of biological agents has revolutionized the care of these patients. Short and long-term safety of children on immunosuppresants remains paramount.

It is crucial that specialist rheumatology teams work in partnership with health-care colleagues to successfully care of the child and family living with JIA. The school nurse is a key partner in supporting the delivery of optimal care to children and young people with JIA.
Exploring the development of school children's health
Authors: Holmström Malin Rising , Olofsson Niclas , Asplund Kenneth , Kristiansen Lisbeth
Published: May 2014

Aim:

To explore the association between positive self-reported health (SRH) in pre-school and 4th grade SRH in a long-term prospective population-based study in Sweden.

Methods:

Data originated from the Health Dialogue (HD) a structured instrument used by school nurses. 1084 children participated. Odds ratios were analyzed.

Results:

In 10-year-old children's SRH, comfort in school, normal BMI and absence of headaches were shown to be significantly important health indicators. Normal BMI showed to have a potentially causal effect on 10-year-old girls and absence of headaches showed a potentially causal effect among 10-year-old boys.

Conclusion:

Schools should be designed to meet the children's needs so that they are perceived as comfortable, safe and secure places. Schools should advocate physical activity and play, serve healthy nutritious food in order to motivate, support and promote a healthy lifestyle. Schools are a unique arena for health promotion as they reach practically all school-age children.
Supporting pupils with different learning styles
Authors: Faber Krista
Published: May 2014

In this series of articles aimed at school nurses new to teaching, Krista Faber provides some advice on teaching effective PSHE sessions. This month's article looks at learning styles and how to support visual learners.
Looking at common rashes and adverse drug reactions
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

It is important that school nurses are aware of possible side effects of medication taken by children and young people in the school and are able to recognise adverse drug reactions.

This article looks at some common rashes that may present in children and young people as a result of adverse drug reactions.

Adverse drug reactions should be reported.
Empowering adolescents and the wider community to recognise adolescent relationship abuse
Authors: Lyons Jane , Rabie Gabrielle
Published: May 2014

Abuse within the context of an adolescent intimate relationship constitutes a major social and public health issue; the impact of abuse can be life-long and span generations. This literature review analyses current research and literature and explores the factors that may predispose adolescents to become a victim or perpetrator of relationship abuse, alongside the factors that reinforce and maintain abusive behaviour. The school nurse may interact with adolescents before, during and after an episode of relationship abuse. Therefore this article also looks at the role of the school nurse in enabling adolescents to recognise abusive behaviour within an intimate relationship, and makes recommendations for future school nursing practice.
The use of the McKenzie approach to treat back pain
Authors: Holdom Andrew
Published: May 2014

The absence of guidelines on the management of back pain is apparent in clinical practice. There is a growing trend towards encouraging early activity and physical therapy if symptoms last more than a few days. The McKenzie approach to treat back pain relies upon the patient taking an active role in their rehabilitation to reduce the risk of recurrence. Supporting evidence to the concepts will be reviewed.
Cultural diversity in work patterns
Authors: Stuckey Rwth
Published: May 2014

This article introduces the divergent area of cultural issues impacting on work practices and patterns, issues which should be considered in any health-care programme. To remain relevant and effective within an increasingly multicultural environment, rehabilitation must consider the specific cultural expectations of each person and respond to their particular needs. This article briefly discusses work patterns, the issues involved and the impact these may have on rehabilitation practice.
The way ahead: equipping occupational therapists for the future
Authors: Griffiths Sue
Published: May 2014

The Way Ahead was the title of a national conference for occupational therapists (OTs) held at Nene College, Northampton on September 11th. The conference began with key note speakers: Sheelagh Richards considered the future direction of health care, David Jones discussed the delivery of social care, followed by Sue Allen, Julia O'Sullivan and Sandra Holmes looking at continuing professional development (CPD) to equip the OT for the challenges of the 21st century. The afternoon continued with workshops related to the theme including commissioning, outcomes, research, personality, multidisciplinary teams and activity. Speakers and workshop facilitators are listed at the end of the article.
Exercises for low back pain
Authors: Goldby Lucy
Published: May 2014

Physiotherapists have often been accused of prescribing exercises for low back pain based on reasons of ‘tradition and belief’ rather than on evidence-based practice. The aim of this paper is to illustrate the way that exercises for low back pain are now prescribed, highlighting the changes in clinical practice and drawing on recent research evidence which has brought about the changes in prescription patterns.
Where's the evidence?
Authors: Lloyd-Smith Walter
Published: May 2014

Everybody seems to be either talking about doing it, or trying to implement it; that is, evidence-based practice (EBP). EBP describes current developments towards clinical effectiveness across a wide section of health-related disciplines and practice groups, whose origins can be traced from evidence-based medicine (EBM). While it is by no means a new idea (its origins have been traced back to mid-19th century Paris (Sackett et al, 1996)), it has never been more popular or its use more widely advocated as now. However, to many patients and clinicians alike it may seem strange to suggest that it is needed at all. Surely, an organization like the NHS which spends £33 billion on delivering its service would base this on data which show that it is a wise investment? So, what is EBP, and will it help in any way? Is it just the current NHS buzzword which will fade with time?
Vocology: the psychological underpinning of voice
Authors: Ritchie Julia
Published: May 2014

From the first sound a baby makes, emotion is expressed in ‘the raw’. The tense shrill cries of hunger and pain are contrasted with the relaxed vocal set in gurgling and laughter. As we grow up, the interrelationship between voice and emotion becomes harder to untangle. The power of voice and poignancy of emotion is confirmed artistically by masters such as Pavarotti, while voice therapists try to unravel the complexities of emotion and voice disorder.
The role of the health psychologist in a general hospital setting
Authors: Pike David C
Published: May 2014

Health psychologists form a vital part of health-care teams in the general hospital. Basing their interventions on scientific theory, standardized assessment and clinical skills, they are able to help patients through emotional adjustment, information and the establishment of health-inducing behaviour. This article discusses the professional organization of the health psychologist and describes a theoretical model that underpins their contribution. It also draws out the distinctions between the clinically trained and the non-clinical health psychologist.
Health promotion in physiotherapy and occupational therapy: students' placement experiences
Authors: Reynolds Frances
Published: May 2014

A sample of third-year physiotherapy and occupational therapy students revealed positive attitudes towards health promotion, but on reflecting about their clinical placement experiences, they reported that health professionals encounter some considerable practical barriers to effective work in this area.
Spinal cord injury after rehabilitation: the general practice experience
Authors: Glickman S , Dalrymple-Hay M , Phillips GF
Published: May 2014

This article gives the results of a survey of patients with spinal cord injuries from a general practice perspective. The purpose was to investigate the extent of GP involvement in managing spinal cord injured patients. The results demonstrated that complex clinical issues of spinal cord injury commonly confront GPs. This has important implications for rehabilitation programmes and primary and community health-care teams
Horticulture as a therapeutic medium
Authors: Gibson SA
Published: May 2014

Horticulture is a unique treatment medium in that it entails the use of living material, thus paralleling human growth and development. It is an ongoing occupation which, if used appropriately, can be therapeutic, creating fun and enjoyment as well as social and recreational opportunities for people of all ages. In this article the therapeutic value of horticulture is explored through four case studies, each of which highlights different therapeutic experiences.
Questionnaire design in practice
Authors: Walker Elizabeth M
Published: May 2014

The questionnaire is an extremely useful research instrument. Used appropriately, a well-designed questionnaire can produce data which is both valuable and valid.
Ultrasound in the diagnosis and treatment of female infertility
Authors: Batterby Margaret
Published: May 2014

Advances during the last 20 years have enabled couples who previously believed themselves to be infertile to have children. Diagnosis and effective treatment of infertility can be a complex procedure. Ultrasound is a relatively cheap non-invasive method of monitoring changes in the female reproductive system and can be used in a wide range of infertility situations, from baseline pelvic assessment to monitoring of treatment for in-vitro fertilization.
The relationship between oestrogen and muscle strength
Authors: Woledge Roger C
Published: May 2014

The force produced by a given amount of muscle is not constant but can change. Part of the weakness seen at the menopause is such a change in specific muscle strength. During the follicular stage of the menstrual cycle, muscle strength shows a small increase.
A multidisciplinary symptom control class for breast cancer patients
Authors: Hammick M , Howard E , Macleod H , Smith J
Published: May 2014

Current treatments for primary breast cancer include surgery and radiotherapy. These therapies are often accompanied by distressing side-effects which may have long-term consequences for the patient. A monthly multidisciplinary class provides a successful and time-saving way of targeting all those patients who may require information and advice. Discussions take place in a group setting and focus on how patients can participate in prevention and control of lymphoedema, shoulder joint stiffness and skin reactions to radiotherapy.
Reciprocal walking orthoses for paraplegic patients
Authors: Stallard John
Published: May 2014

Reciprocal walking for paraplegic patients is a routinely available clinical option, the objectives of which are therapeutic benefit and improved independence. A variety of devices is available, each having evolved its own compromise. Good patient compliance is essential to achieve the objectives, and a number of factors will influence the outcome. Available research results contributing to this are reviewed.
The role of radiotherapy in the management of painful bony metastases
Authors: Francis Geraldine
Published: May 2014

This article outlines the mechanisms by which bone metastases may cause pain, and #describes the radiation treatment modalities used in the management of patients with symptomatic disease. The article is intended to provide the reader with a baseline of information from which further reading may be undertaken.
Dyspraxia: the parent's view
Authors: Howard Lynne
Published: May 2014

Clumsy, minimal cerebral dysfunction, dyspraxia, developmental coordination disorder; as professionals we all recognize the terms which have been used over the past decade or so to describe the child, usually a boy, who has a typical set of difficulties and who may be referred to us for therapy. Similarly, over the years, those of us who have treated such children have been aware of the different treatment regimens suggested to help remediate the problem: sensory integration, kinaesthetic acuity training, perceptuomotor training and the activity or function based approach. We may also have tried to keep abreast of developments by reading the articles written over the last 20 years identifying the problem, refining the diagnosis or following the development of groups of children.
Development of a care pathway for stroke rehabilitation
Authors: Edmans Judi , Goodwin Nicola , Foster Allison , O'Reilly May , Stout Eleanor
Published: May 2014

To identify all the procedures involved in rehabilitating a stroke patient, the staff on a stroke unit developed and audited a care pathway as a framework for the management of the care of patients on their unit. The objectives were to ensure equity of service and to improve multidisciplinary communication and discharge planning for all patients.
The role of the clinical neuropsychologist in rehabilitation
Authors: Thompson Simon BN , Berry Alister
Published: May 2014

Neuropsychological rehabilitation services in Great Britain, both within and outside the NHS, are continuing to develop. The rapid growth of this young specialty out of acute neuroscience has created considerable employment opportunities for clinical psychologists. This paper critically evaluates the role of clinical neuropsychologists in neurological rehabilitation, emphasizing the need for strong links with academic centres to help integrate theory with practice. It is suggested that role confusion exists within the interdisciplinary team, not just because of the expansion of the specialty but also because of the varied clinical backgrounds of clinicians attracted to this specialty and the differing expectations of team managers and service demands.
Work-related personal injury litigation: role of the expert witness
Authors: Smith Jacqui
Published: May 2014

Health professionals are increasingly becoming involved in the legal process as litigants, witnesses of fact and sometimes as experts. This article sets out the role and responsibilities of the expert witness health professional within the context of the English legal system and particularly in relation to liability issues in occupational health and safety. The current system for seeking compensation for personal injury is under review such that experts will be required to demonstrate not only their professional judgment but their ability to be independent and impartial.
Therapy involvement in NHS research and development
Authors: Bury Tracy
Published: May 2014

The NHS research and development (R&D) strategy is entering a new phase. It is therefore timely to review the extent of therapy involvement in the strategy. First of all, is there therapy involvement? Yes there is, but what is worth considering further is the level at which it takes place. This tells us something about the status of therapy research within the national strategic framework for R&D. It does not necessarily reflect the developments and progress within these professions.
Cognitive-behavioural treatment approach for patients with CFS
Authors: Chalder Trudie
Published: May 2014

In this article a cognitive–behavioural model for the development of chronic fatigue syndrome is described. A rehabilitative approach to treatment which involves activity scheduling, establishing a sleep routine and combating unhelpful thoughts is then outlined. There is evidence that this approach improves fatigue and disability in 70% of patients. However, despite the seemingly straight forward nature of the interventions, many health professionals experience difficulty with engaging patients in the approach. The key to success is in paying careful attention to the more subtle aspects of the treatment process, namely engagement and providing a clear rationale for treatment.
Development of a stroke assessment team: focus on physiotherapy
Authors: Allan Lucy , Shanley Jackie
Published: May 2014

A multidisciplinary team was appointed for acute stroke services in preparation for opening a stroke assessment unit at Walsgrave Hospitals NHS Trust. Since introduction, the frequency of physiotherapy treatment for stroke patients has improved, as an indirect consequence of increasing awareness of therapy needs and greater staff confidence in treating stroke patients.
Acupuncture: a therapy worth considering for pain?
Authors: Lewith George
Published: May 2014

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese therapeutic modality based upon traditional Chinese medical systems and philosophy. It is now widely used in the West, particularly in the treatment of pain, by both physicians and physiotherapists. The evidence base for acupuncture is becoming increasingly solid at both a mechanistic and clinical level.
Communication, promotion and marketing in occupational therapy
Authors: Stewart Averil M
Published: May 2014

This edition of the British Journal of Therapy and Rehabilitation brings together three papers relating to occupational therapy (see p. 185). All three have much in common in that they reinforce the belief that occupational therapists should be able to represent the interests of the profession and be able to articulate the scope of the service that can be offered to the advantage of clients. They all reflect the speed of change resulting from legislation and philosophies of care that encourage equal opportunities and autonomy compared with segregation and institutionalization.
Safeguarding the values of occupational therapy: priority setting in mental health
Authors: Meylan Paul
Published: May 2014

As a means of resource allocation attempts are being made in statutory mental health settings to delineate mental illness. With a clear emphasis on classificatory labels and reductionist criteria, the values fundamental to occupational therapy are threatened. Increased vigilance is required in order to maintain sound ethical practice and distinct professional contribution.
Integrating occupational therapy and education services: a survey
Authors: Gottwald Mary
Published: May 2014

A survey of occupational therapists working within the educational system has found that although therapists are clear about their role in this area, teachers are still unclear as to what occupational therapy can offer. It is suggested that teachers and therapists need to collaborate to clarify their respective roles and thereby open the door to more successful integration of children with special educational needs into mainstream education.
Benefits of visiting OT students during fieldwork placements
Authors: Gillespie Helen
Published: May 2014

This study investigates what student occupational therapists expect and want when they are visited by a member of the college's academic staff during their fieldwork placements. Thirty students, ten from each year of training, were interviewed at their standard placement visits, and left with a short questionnaire to complete. The research showed that students valued the visits, with many considering them necessary and essential. While students' needs differed, most identified a requirement for reassurance about their work on placement, emotional support for those experiencing difficulties, and assistance or advice on how to manage problems related to placements. This study also shows how students have individual needs that may be influenced by factors such as personal circumstances, and thus no assumptions should be made regarding what a student requires when visited on placement.
Patients who have had a stroke: where should their needs be met?
Authors: Archibald Graeme
Published: May 2014

This article describes the role of Shipley Community Hospital in West Yorkshire in meeting the rehabilitative needs of stroke patients. There is an examination of other environments for stroke aftercare and a discussion of Shipley Community Hospital's political context and cost effectiveness with regards to stroke aftercare.
Considerations for bathroom equipment and adaptations
Authors: Dean Rachel
Published: May 2014

Personal cleansing is integral to daily life and may be determined by social aspects such as culture and age. Those activities which are essential for maintenance of good hygiene and health also affect general wellbeing, morale, and confidence in social settings (Foster, 1996). There are therefore many elements which must be taken into account when seeking to overcome bathing difficulties through equipment and adaptations.
Sex and the elderly: we don't talk about that here, this is a hospital
Authors: Steele Roger
Published: May 2014

During the past 30 years, British society's views towards sexuality have undergone immense change. Sexuality is now often openly discussed and many taboos have been eliminated. However, research suggests that in the areas of learning disabilities, and with the elderly, there still remains considerable prejudice and ignorance concerning their sexual needs and rights. This is also considered true within health-care settings where sexual aspects of illness and rehabilitation are given low or no priority. This article explores these issues and, using experience from learning disabilities, suggests ways of applying these issues to the care of the elderly. Occupational therapists, working as they often do very closely with their clients, are seen as being in an ideal position to address these issues and instigate any necessary changes.
Visions of teamwork: the realities of an interdisciplinary approach
Authors: Proctor-Childs Tracey , Miller Carolyn , Freeman Marnie
Published: May 2014

Despite studies that extol the value of multidisciplinary teamwork (Poulton and West, 1993; Pearson and Spencer, 1995), there have been few examples of in-depth research that provides evidence of ‘best practice’ in the clinical setting. This article presents evidence from two case studies that explore the realities of multidisciplinary teamwork. They were both set in neurorehabilitation units where there was an ‘integrated interdisciplinary approach’ to patient care. The authors differentiate between multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary working, since the latter would seem to better describe the teamwork that was witnessed; the two case studies are summarized; the elements of effective interdisciplinary teamwork that emerged from the data are listed; evidence from the cases which exemplified best practice is examined; and finally, the ways in which these aspects of interdisciplinary teamwork appeared to benefit the patient are described.
Multisensory environments and older people with dementia
Authors: Wareing Lesley Ann , Coleman Peter G , Baker Roger
Published: May 2014

Caring for people with dementia is challenging for professionals and relatives, the demands rising as longevity increases for a higher percentage of the population. Current psychosocial approaches to care rely on verbal communication skills. When these are lost sensory stimulation may be a way of communicating with and meeting the needs of this vulnerable group of people. This paper reports on a study using a single case study design with four men in the later stages of dementia. The benefits that resulted following treatment sessions were reduction in apathy and socially disturbed behaviour with increased interest in the environment.
A survey of health promotion opportunities in radiography
Authors: Castle Alan , Reeves Jo-Ann
Published: May 2014

Radiographers, as health professionals, have a responsibility to recognize health promotion opportunities which may arise during their clinical practice. These opportunities include giving advice and information to patients, protecting patients, staff and members of the general public from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation and adopting good practices to minimize the spread of infection. Tannahill's model of health promotion, using the three domains of health education, health protection and disease prevention, was used during previous research to establish nine key areas in which health promotion opportunities could be developed.

The aim of this survey was to ascertain the views of radiography educators in the UK in relation to relevance, clarity of role and potential for further development in clinical practice in these key areas. Results were generally positive and provide an argument for encouraging health promotion activities to become an integral part of radiography practice. In order for this to succeed, it will be necessary to provide appropriate education and training, raise awareness, stimulate reflection and encourage radiographers to develop informed action plans to translate health promotion theory into clinical practice.
Counselling and clinical reasoning: the meaning of practice
Authors: Thomson Diane
Published: May 2014

This article considers possible links between counselling and clinical reasoning. It focuses on the therapeutic relationship, explores narratives and enters the debate of 'being' vs 'doing' . Finally it examines the process of metacognition and recommends that health professionals like counsellors see supervision as the cornerstone of their practice. This, it argues, provides continual personal and professional development and is essential for the further development of clinical reasoning.
Dyspraxia: an update of current practice
Authors: Howard Lynne
Published: May 2014

This month's edition of the British Journal of Therapy and Rehabilitation has a supplement consisting of four papers on the subject of dyspraxia. It is quite an achievement to bring together a collection of articles on such a specialized topic. Thirty years ago one would have had to search long and hard for even one paper on dyspraxia and then the subject was presented in relation to medical diagnosis (Walton et al, 1962) and rarely to the therapeutic intervention of dyspraxia. Indeed when Missiuna and Polatajko (1995) searched the international literature on dyspraxia over the last 25 years they found only 10 studies relating to the treatment of dyspraxia, none of which had been carried out in the UK.
Profiling characteristics of children with dyspraxia: a pilot study
Authors: Mitchell Susan J
Published: May 2014

In the field of dyspraxia, terminology is diverse and there is much debate about what actually constitutes a dyspraxic child. This study examines the characteristics of sixteen dyspraxic children, aged between 7 and 11 years of age, and explores any common traits. Each child was assessed using a battery of standardized and nonstandardized materials. The results highlight patterns of ability from which several profiles are constructed. It is proposed that these profiles might be developed as a tool for differential diagnosis and might serve as a guiding framework for therapeutic intervention.
Equipment to enable safe handling of people
Authors: Beresford Susan A
Published: May 2014

‘An estimated 1.3 million working days are lost to the NHS each year because of back injury’ (calculated by the National Back Pain Association, reported in Handling People (Disabled Living Foundation, 1994). Until the early 1990s when trusts were formed, the NHS enjoyed Crown Immunity. Formation of trusts removed employer status from the Crown, and the Health and Safety Executive was therefore at liberty to inspect trust premises and enforce health and safety law.
Abuse perpetrators: a Personal Construct Psychology perspective
Authors: Allen Diane
Published: May 2014

Perpetrators of child sexual abuse create many problems for professionals working in the area of therapy and rehabilitation. My therapeutic work often brings me into contact with adult survivors of such abuse. For many of these survivors a central issue is understanding why the abuser chose them as a focus for sexual activity. Personal Construct Psychology is based on the individual's perspective of the world and gives the opportunity to explore similarities and differences between each person's experience of abuse — in this case the perpetrator and the survivor. This paper will explore a few aspects of Personal Construct Ppsychology and examine how the approach can be used to demonstrate the views held by some perpetrators of child sexual abuse and their victims.
The provision of powered wheelchairs: one year on
Authors: Cooper Elizabeth , Fyfe Neil CM
Published: May 2014

In the last couple of years, policy changes have allowed health authorities in England to provide electric powered indoor/outdoor wheelchairs on a limited basis. The Department of Health provided guidelines for the prescription of these wheelchairs (Department of Health, 1996), and eligibility criteria were developed locally.
Can clinical reasoning be an effective tool in CPD?
Authors: Stephenson Richard
Published: May 2014

This article continues the series of papers looking at possible models of continuing professional development (CPD). The potential for clinical reasoning as a tool in exploring and analysing professional development is discussed, with particular reference to Higgs' concept of cognitive mapping. It is suggested that through the construction and analysis of ‘problem’ maps, deficits and strengths in the knowledge and skills used to solve the problem can be identified. Collaborative analysis with a mentor or peer group could enhance the individual's understanding of their reasoning ability. This enables the therapist to determine areas of practice where development is required and to implement a plan for CPD. Where this information is used as part of appraisal it serves as a focus for negotiated and supported activity leading to CPD.
The 6th European congress on research in rehabilitation
Authors: Davis Sally
Published: May 2014

I have recently returned from the 6th European Congress on Research in Rehabilitation in Berlin, which I attended with three of my nursing colleagues. As a Senior Nurse/Lecturer Practitioner at Rivermead Rehabilitation Centre and Ritchie Russell House in Oxford and Chair of the Rehabilitation Nurses' Forum which is affiliated to the Royal College of Nursing, I was very keen to attend such a congress to spread the word about rehabilitation nursing and to find out what is happening in Europe. It was particularly encouraging that one of the parallel sessions was focused on nursing and I was able to present my own paper.
Pressure sores: adopting the principles of risk management
Authors: Kiernan Martin
Published: May 2014

This article examines the continuing problem of pressure sores in the NHS from a purchasing and a providing manager's perspective. Risk management and the need for clinical effectiveness in treatment and prevention strategies are discussed. Reporting systems are advocated as a means to estimate risk and to form a store of information that will enable a response to made when problem areas are identified. Nursing advice and input into the contracting process is vital. The need for purchasers and NHS managers to work together to ensure that effective interventions are implemented to reduce both the financial burden on the NHS and the physiological insult offered to patients is stressed.
Statistical inference: some basic concepts
Authors: Maclaren William M
Published: May 2014

For the researcher in health sciences, or the health professional keeping abreast of the current literature, some knowledge of the principles of statistical inference has become essential. In this article, one of a series devoted to the role of statistics in the health sciences, an attempt is made to explain, with a minimum of algebraic formulae, some of the key concepts of statistical inference.