bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving outcomes among adults with asthma
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: May 2014

Poor control is common among adults with asthma. Approximately 97% of deaths from asthma occur among adults. Improved care could avoid 75% of hospital admissions for asthma and up to 90% of deaths. A number of factors potentially contribute to poor outcomes among adults with asthma. Age itself seems to increase the chance of poor asthma control by 1% per year. This article examines modifiable factors associated with poor control in adults with asthma. For example, one third of adults with asthma admitted poor adherence. Depression and poor cognition undermine compliance and self-management, while psychological and respiratory symptoms interact to worsen control. Psychiatric comorbidity is relatively common among people with asthma; moreover, some maladaptive responses to stress potentially exacerbate asthma. Therefore, nurses should review patients' coping strategies and maintain a high index of suspicion for psychiatric conditions. Furthermore, nurses need to ensure that patients are on the appropriate step of the guidelines and consider reviewing the differential diagnosis if asthma remains poorly controlled. Increasing rhinitis severity and a greater number of cigarettes smoked each day were both associated with deteriorating asthma control. Therefore, nurses should optimize rhinitis management and encourage smoking cessation.
Sexual health clinic: identifying and treating gonorrhoea
Authors: Keefe Alison
Published: May 2014

Despite improvements in accessibility to sexual health services, gonorrhoea continues to be a significant challenge within the specialty. This article examines the epidemiology and public health issues associated with this bacteria, which has both historic and global significance.
Questions and Answers
Authors: Peniston-Bird Fiona
Published: May 2014

I trained as a nurse independent prescriber in 2006 and use my qualification every day. I recently heard that I should not be prescribing diazepam independently for acute back pain—is that correct?
Diagnosis and management of anxiety in primary care
Authors: McGrandles Amanda , McCaig Marie
Published: May 2014

This article explores the wide range of assessment methods available to assist in the identification of anxiety and related disorders in primary care. A range of effective interventions is discussed, including psychosocial and pharmacological interventions with reference to evidence-based guidelines. The significance of effective partnership working is also highlighted in contributing towards best practice and improved outcomes (National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence, 2004; Barker, 2009). The article will mostly focus on generalized anxiety disorder, which appears to be closer to depression than any other anxiety disorder.
Drug profile: trimethoprim for uncomplicated UTIs
Authors: Lovatt Penny
Published: May 2014

Trimethoprim, a broad spectrum antimicrobial medication, is a designated first-line treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI). Being a common presentation to primary care, this article will review the drug from a pharmacological perspective, considering both it's pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties. It will also discuss the nursing considerations in safely prescribing trimethoprim in clinical practice and include the thought processes involved in prescribing for renal patients, hepatic impairment, pregnancy and breastfeeding mothers. Finally, alternative therapies will be addressed, looking at both drug and non-drug options.
Equity & excellence —a new concept?
Authors: Otway Christine
Published: May 2014

Liberating the Talents, oops sorry, wrong paper. Now we are Liberating the NHS. Of course, in the meantime, we have had a change of government. Good thing is, we are to be liberated! Well, our talents were liberated some time ago by the previous government, and now it is us, NHS staff, who are to be liberated. Is this because the liberal democrats—who of course, one presumes, want to ‘liberate’ everyone—are also part of the coalition government? What does this actually mean? As a lot of nurses and administrative staff have had their jobs put ‘at risk’, does it mean that some of them are to be liberated from the NHS completely—if so, would the term ‘liberated’ just be the new way of saying ‘being made redundant’? Surely not. After all the White Paper (Department of Health, 2010) starts off by saying:
Recognition and treatment of anaphylactic reactions
Authors: Jevon Phil
Published: May 2014

Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening, generalized or systemic hypersensitivity reaction characterized by rapid development of airway, and/or breathing, and/or circulation compromise, usually associated with skin and mucosal changes. Summoning expert help, positioning the patient appropriately, administering high-flow oxygen, and administering intramuscular adrenaline are the key initial treatment and management options. The aim of this article is to discuss the recognition and treatment of anaphylaxis.
Fifteen years of non-medical prescribing in the UK
Authors: Courtenay Molly
Published: May 2014

In the next few months, the committee members of the Association for Nurse Prescribing (ANP) will be presenting a regular column in the pages of the journal. In the first instalment, Professor Molly Courtenay, Adviser for the ANP, reminds us how non-medical prescribing came to be
Drugs for the management of dyspepsia in adults
Authors: Panchmatia Shailesh
Published: May 2014

This article discusses the pathogenesis and drug treatment of dyspepsia in adults. The mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, and prescribing aspects of the main drug classes are covered. The drugs discussed are proton pump inhibitors, antihistamines, alginates, and prokinetics.
Questions and Answers
Authors: Peniston-Bird Fiona
Published: May 2014

I work as a nurse, and I am currently undertaking the Independent/Supplementary Prescribing course. I am finding supplementary prescribing very confusing. Would I use supplementary prescribing when prescribing something I am not fully familiar with?
Fundamental Aspects of Long-Term Conditions
Authors: Peniston-Bird Fiona
Published: May 2014

Fundamental Aspects of Long-Term Conditions, edited by Helen McVeigh as part of the Fundamental Aspects of Nursingseries and published by Quay Books, London, is an easy-to-read textbook, ideal to ‘dip in and out’ of. It aims to raise awareness of long-term conditions, their management and the implications of living with chronic illness. The book sets a challenge to student nurses and those embarking on their nursing career pathway.
Concordance in action: towards systematic individualized care
Authors: Snowden Austyn , Gilfedder Maria , Campbell Peggy Anne
Published: May 2014

This article describes the construction and impact of an education module designed to improve medicine management in mental health nursing. In particular, it justifies the need for such education and illustrates the impact that it can have on knowledge and understanding. It examines a specific example of translating theory into practice by presenting a case study where person-centred medicine management was put into action in a busy acute ward. By analysing the process issues surrounding this case it is argued that future attempts to articulate concordance can be supported better.
Management of pain in the elderly patient with herpes zoster
Authors: Ganty Praveen
Published: May 2014

Herpes zoster (shingles) affects at least 1 in 4 of the elderly population, and its incidence increases with age due to a decrease in the innate cell-mediated immunity of the individual. Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is pain that persists for at least 3 months after the appearance of the characteristic rash. PHN can be refractory to treatment, and many modalities of treatment are available including medication, psychological techniques, and interventional techniques, including neuromodulation. An early referral to a pain clinic is indicated in PHN. Herpes zoster can be prevented by administering a vaccine that contains the live attenuated virus. The vaccine has been shown to be very effective, and is recommended in individuals above 60 years of age.
Management of atrial fibrillation: A case study
Authors: Marriott Sue
Published: May 2014

This case study considers a patient presenting for assessment who is diagnosed with atrial fibrillation with a fast ventricular rate. Treatment options are considered and the pharmacology of the potential options is discussed. Consideration is also given to legal ethical and concordance issues.
Risk management of falls for older adults
Authors: Galloway Jo
Published: May 2014

Falls are a significant cause of death among the elderly. Jo Galloway describes how identifying those at risk and taking appropriate action can reduce the number of falls in institutional settings.
Health & Safety
Authors: Jones Phil
Published: May 2014

Phil Jones outlines the health and safety requirements for correct and safe manual handling within a care home.
Autistic spectrum disorders
Authors: Smeardon Lesley
Published: May 2014

Lesley Smeardon provides a background to the autistic spectrum disorders, explaining the causes of this class of disorders, and describes the ways in which affected individuals can be helped.
Health & Safety
Authors: Jones Phil
Published: May 2014

Phil Jones examines the potential for accidents in nursing homes and outlines some key preventative measures.
Care provision for elderly people in the independent sector
Authors: Fox Robert D
Published: May 2014

Robert D Fox outlines the provision of care for those in the independent sector and highlights the need for a national body to standardize care in a residential setting.
Epilepsy: its definitions, diagnosis, treatment and care
Authors: Panesar Bhupinder
Published: May 2014

Epilepsy can be a frightening disorder for all concerned. Bhupinder Panesar outlines the causes of the disorder, and explains how best to deal with an epileptic seizure.
An inspector calls
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: May 2014

Adrian Ashurst provides an overview of the fire officer's visit to nursing and residential establishments.
Student nurse placements in the care home setting
Authors: Fuggle Karen
Published: May 2014

Karen Fuggle presents the opinions of two first year student nurses following their clinical placement in a nursing/residential care home.
Dementia: the challenge of providing care
Authors: Cream Julia
Published: May 2014

Julia Cream describes the prevalence and common symptoms of dementia, and discusses the challenges facing society in caring for an increasingly ageing population. In an era of tight budgets and shrinking resources, she suggests ways to focus care on those most in need of it.
Nursing and residential home diary
Authors: Pratt David
Published: May 2014

These diary entries come from the owner of a nursing home specializing in the care of clients with dementia. They provide a window to the day to day routines of the home, as well as covering a range of issues surrounding the care of those with dementia.
New approaches to the treatment of leg ulcers
Authors: Hoffman Richard
Published: May 2014

Richard Hoffman examines some areas of research that are advancing our understanding of the pathology of venous leg ulcers.
Nutritional supplements and tube feeds: what is available?
Authors: White Gillian
Published: May 2014

Gillian White presents information on a wide range of specialized nutritional feeding products that are now available on the market.
How to… Cope with computers 3
Authors: Ashurst Allan
Published: May 2014

In this, the final part to the ‘beginner's guide’ to computers, we look at installing software, and gaining access to the Internet.
An introduction to reflexology
Authors: Williamson Jan
Published: May 2014

Reflexology is an ancient healing therapy. It focuses on stimulating ‘reflex points’. Practitioners believe that by applying pressure to the reflex points it is possible to treat a range of disorders. Jan Williamson describes how.
Making Christmas memorable for residents
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: May 2014

Adrian Ashurst discusses how effective teamwork can enable residents, relatives and staff to enjoy the festive season in a nursing or residential home.
Fungal infections in the care home: ringworm
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Jean Watkins highlights the need for accurate diagnosis of ringworm. Its various manifestations are described together with likely confusions in diagnosis. Suggestions for treatment are also provided.
Types of epilepsy, triggers and treatments
Authors: Hudson Sharon
Published: May 2014

Sharon Hudson discusses the different types of epilepsy that people can suffer from, the possible triggers of a seizure and the treatments which are available.
Delivering NVQs in the workplace
Authors: Barham Bob
Published: May 2014

In this article, Bob Barham outlines some considerations for NVQ candidates and their employers, when considering the candidate's training requirements.
NVQs for support staff in the workplace
Authors: Barham Bob
Published: May 2014

In this article, Bob Barham looks at some of the NVQs that are available for support staff, including areas such as housekeeping, administration and management.
Individual care review: accomplishments and potential
Authors: Ashfield Elaine
Published: May 2014

Elaine Ashfield presents the case of Peter, a male who exhibits behaviour defined within the parameters of autism and describes the support he received, enabling his individualization and improvement in his quality of life.
Effective rehabilition and hoisting equipment: a case study
Authors: Busse Monica
Published: May 2014

Monica Busse presents a case study detailing the rehabilitation of a client following a severe stroke. The use of hoists in this individual's rehabilitation was essential, their use allowing the progression of the client's intervention.
Dealing with sight and hearing loss in old age
Authors: Duncan Liz
Published: May 2014

One of today's major causes of dual sensory loss is old age. Liz Duncan explains how older people and their carers can meet the challenges it presents.
Behind the scenes: the importance of ancillary staff
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: May 2014

Adrian Ashurst reminds us of the valuable contribution made by those people who work behind the scenes in nursing and residential homes throughout the country.
Neurobiological mechanisms in pain control
Authors: Morinan Alun
Published: May 2014

Alun Morinan outlines the biological mechanisms which cause people to feel pain, and looks at how analgesic drugs interact with these mechanisms to stop pain being felt.
SELF-DIRECTED Learning
Authors: Yonwin Helen
Published: May 2014

This article by Helen Yonwin relates to unit Z19 of the NVQ syllabus: Enabling clients to achieve physical comfort.
Positive customer care
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: May 2014

Adrian Ashurst suggests that good manners and patience should be the guiding principles of customer care as we prepare to face the major developments of the future.
The Internet revolution
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: May 2014

Adrian Ashurst reviews the exciting developments of the Internet and suggests that within 2 years the majority of care homes will be part of this unstoppable information technology revolution.
Information technology and the NVQ training provider
Authors: Barham Bob
Published: May 2014

Regis Training and Educational Services offer a wide range of national vocational qualifications (NVQs) to staff in care and nursing settings. These NVQs are based on competence statements which reflect the job carried out by the NVQ candidate. The competence of a candidate is assessed in the workplace by trained assessors.
Web watch
Authors: Mangan Paul
Published: May 2014

Paul Mangan details some of the websites which cater for people working in nursing and residential care and looks at what they can offer users.
SELF-DIRECTED Learning
Authors: Yonwin Helen
Published: May 2014

This article by Helen Yonwin relates to unit CU1 of the NVQ syllabus: health, safety and security within care establishments.
Talking Back
Authors: Chapman Paul
Published: May 2014

Trade union recognition has been accepted as a matter of fact for staff working in the public sector. However, staff in independent and voluntary organizations only recently gained similar rights to join and participate in union activities. Paul Chapman of Unison says that it is time that union membership made a bigger impact in the private sector.
Career management with a curriculum vitae
Authors: Sewell Peter
Published: May 2014

Peter Sewell gives practical advice about composing a curriculum vitae and explains why the curriculum vitae is so important in career management.
Bridging the gap between hospital and home
Authors: Aubrey-Fletcher Sara
Published: May 2014

This article argues that with an ageing population and increasing numbers of patients treated in hospitals the role convalescence homes is important both to individual patients and to society at large.
The registration and inspection of care homes
Authors: Cooper Jeremy
Published: May 2014

In the second article of this series on care home regulations, an overview of the new arrangements regarding registration and inspection of care homes, which will be in place from 1 April 2002, is provided.
Last offices following the death of a resident
Authors: Ashurst Adrian , Ireland Ian
Published: May 2014

Adrian Ashurst and Ian Ireland give advice to managers and care staff about some of the practical and formal issues arising when a resident in a care home dies.
Beyond training: implementing a new educational programme
Authors: Sandland Sonia
Published: May 2014

This article considers an initiative which was adopted by BUPA Care Services. It was designed for staff within the residential care sector to enable them to access an educational programme. This article describes the organization, planning, delivery and outcomes of the first cohort of BUPA Care Services staff who took the Joseph Rowntree Certificate in Care, accredited by the University of Lincolnshire and Humberside.
NVQs in care: the elements of success the elements of success
Authors: Marron Kevin
Published: May 2014

Kevin Marron discusses the implementation of a NVQ strategy for front line care workers in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (the borough). He considers the benefits of the strategy for the borough and for the individuals undertaking the awards, and looks at the positive improvements it has brought for service users.
Prevention of pressure ulcers: a case study
Authors: Bevington Jennie
Published: May 2014

Preventing pressure ulcer incidence and ensuring patient comfort are essential components of providing quality clinical care. The purchase of Thermo contour mattresses has proven successful in a number of areas. In this case study, Jennie Bevington and Sue Johnson evaluate the purchase of these mattresses at the Princess Margaret Hospital, Windsor.
How to… Develop standards in a home
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: May 2014

Adrian Ashurst identifies a simple step-by-step approach to standard setting within a care home.
Assessing NVQ candidates in the workplace: who who should do it?
Authors: Peel Diane
Published: May 2014

In this article, Diane Peel discusses the importance of ensuring that those who assess NVQ candidates in the workplace are fully supported in doing this.
Management of penile sheaths and urinary collection systems
Authors: Pomfret Ian
Published: May 2014

Ian Pomfret discusses the care and management of penile sheaths and urinary collection systems in the management of male urinary incontinence in nursing and residential care.
Remember: we're caring for people
Authors: Mangan Paul
Published: May 2014

The nursing and residential care sector is going through troubled times: losing beds; changes in funding, inspection and registration; and implementing the National Service Framework and the Human Rights Act. At times like these, a busy manager could be forgiven for focusing on the administrative aspects of actually keeping the business afloat, although this may lead to him/her losing sight of what is most important to residents.
Sexuality and residential care: issues for staff and clients
Authors: Penhale Bridget , Manthorpe Jill
Published: May 2014

Bridget Penhale and Jill Manthorpe outline some of the considerations which are important in ensuring that those in residential care have appropriate opportunities to form and continue meaningful relationships.
Developing a positive sexual identity
Authors: Aylott Jill
Published: May 2014

This article will explore the experiences of men and women with a learning disability, in relation to their sexuality and sexual identity. It will be argued that on the whole such experiences are negative and that men and women with a learning disability still experience control over the expression of their sexuality by the people and the organizations they are connected with.
Nearest and dearest: improving the quality of care
Authors: Burton-Jones Julia
Published: May 2014

Julia Burton-Jones discusses the importance for residents of maintaining relationships with family and friends after moving into a nursing or residential home.
Coping with a colostomy
Authors: Plant Catherine , Brierley Rosemary
Published: May 2014

In the first of two articles, Catherine Plant and Rosemary Brierley detail the different types of colostomies that may be formed, the appliances that may be used and some issues surrounding care of these appliances.
Assessing incontinence in the elderly client
Authors: Haggar Veronica
Published: May 2014

Veronica Haggar looks at some of the most common causes of incontinence in elderly clients, suggests some ways in which they can be prevented and discusses some of the probelms of assessing incontinence
The CAC and workers' rights during trade union recognition
Authors: Richardson Barbara
Published: May 2014

Barbara Richardson discusses the way in which the Central Arbitration Committee protects workers rights during the process of trade union recognitions.
Using photography to enhance residents' lives
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: May 2014

Adrian Ashurst discusses how using photography in a nursing or residential care home can benefit residents morale and clinical care and introduces a new photography competition open exclusively to readers of Nursing and Residential Care.
NVQs available for non-care staff
Authors: Barham Bob
Published: May 2014

Bob Barham outlines the different types of NVQs which are available for non-care staff within nursing and residential care homes.
Dietary management of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Bartlett Emma
Published: May 2014

How can diabetes be managed through diet? What is a good diet for a person with diabetes? Emma Bartlett provides some answers.
Multilayered wound dressing
Authors: Gray David
Published: May 2014

This article reviews the key features of modern wound management dressings and their impact on wound healing. A new multilayered wound dressing, Transorbent, is reviewed in the light of the these principles, and the clinical research conducted using Transorbent is considered and presented.
3M Cavilon Durable Barrier Cream in skin problem management
Authors: Williams Clare
Published: May 2014

Many elderly patients suffer from damage to their skin because of age-related skin changes. This article describes these changes and a product, Cavilon Durable Barrier Cream, which provides protection for the skin of elderly patients.
The place of call systems in nursing and residential care
Authors: Sharman Fleur
Published: May 2014

Fleur Sharman outlines some of the benefits to both residents and staff of having a nurse call system in place in a home, and highlights the importance of proper training and awareness of its use.
Promoting clients' rights
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: May 2014

Adrian Ashurst explores the issue of promoting clients' rights while they are living in a residential or nursing care establishment.
Posture and effective chairs and cushions in care homes
Authors: Collins Fiona
Published: May 2014

Many elderly people develop poor sitting posture, which frequently results in pressure ulcer development. In this article, Fiona Collins discusses these problems and some potential solutions.
Manual handling training: meeting the challenge
Authors: Cash Jacqueline M
Published: May 2014

Jacqueline M Cash analyses the strengths and limitations of practice-based manual handling training, and explains the need to provide guidance on safer working practice.
Protecting catheterized patients from infection
Authors: Haberstich Nancy J
Published: May 2014

Nancy J Haberstich draws attention to the infection risks associated with indwelling catheters. This article explains the complications and offers clinical guidance.
Book Reviews
Authors: Morinan Alun
Published: May 2014

This multi-authored volume is the fourth edition of the handbook first published 12 years ago. Divided into two halves, part one covers ‘cytotoxic services’, while part two is a compendium of 45 chemicals (‘classical’ chemotherapeutic drugs), five biologicals (genetically engineered proteins and monoclonal antibodies), and eight adjuvants (prescribed to reduce adverse drug reactions (ADRs) given by the intravenous route for the treatment of cancer.
Implications of the Employment Act 2002: 2
Authors: Richardson Barbara
Published: May 2014

Barbara Richardson discusses some of the contents of the Employment Act 2002 in the second of a two-part series.
Skin health and hygiene
Authors: Hampton Sylvie
Published: May 2014

Sylvie Hampton looks at factors that may affect the skin health of staff, advises on the best way to cleanse and moisturize, and looks at common skin problems.
Decision making, informed consent and individuality
Authors: Norman Rachel
Published: May 2014

In the first of a series based on the Mental Health Foundation's dementia research initiative, Rachel Norman looks at how people can be engaged in informed consent.
Mental health law and the Human Rights Act 1998
Authors: Richardson Barbara
Published: May 2014

Barbara Richardson looks at how existing mental health law falls short of the provisions of the Human Rights Act 1998.
The sight test
Authors: Derrington David
Published: May 2014

David Derrington discusses the process and purpose of a sight test with particular reference to examining those in residential and nursing accommodation.
Fluid intake in patients with urinary problems
Authors: Pullen Mandy
Published: May 2014

Fluid advice is an important part of the health professional's role. This article looks at different types and amounts of fluid and the effect they can have on patients with a catheter or urinary problems.
Who pays? A guide through the jungle of care home funding
Authors: Wright Kerri
Published: May 2014

Kerri Wright gives a breakdown of the funding options available to nursing home residents: an easy guide to an otherwise complicated issue.
Income replacement plans
Authors: Pearce Tony
Published: May 2014

Tony Pearce outlines what you should know about income replacement policies.
Telling the truth in early dementia
Authors: Milne Alison
Published: May 2014

Jayne Lingard and Alison Milne reflect on the work of the Mental Health Foundation, which helps people with an early diagnosis of dementia to understand, accept and learn to live with their illness.
Reducing ear problems and improving communication
Authors: Rodgers Rosemary W
Published: May 2014

Rosemary W Rodgers considers solutions for elderly people with ear problems, and outlines methods to improve basic ear care.
A guide to retirement planning
Authors: Pearce Tony
Published: May 2014

Tony Pearce simplifies the varying pension options available, and explains how they can be tailored to individual needs.
An overview of the new equal treatment directive
Authors: Richardson Barbara
Published: May 2014

Barbara Richardson outlines the new legislation on equal treatment, covering issues such as harassment, discrimination and equal pay.
Explaining the National Vocational Qualification in Care
Authors: Barham Bob
Published: May 2014

What is an NVQ in care and what does it involve? This article provides a background to a new series on training for NVQs in care, explaining the operations of this valuable qualification. Later issues will deal with specific subject areas within the NVQ itself.
Reminiscence: is living in the past good for wellbeing?
Authors: McKee Kevin J , Wilson Fiona , Elford Helen , Hinchliff Sharron , Bolton Gillie , Cheung Chung Man , Goudie Fiona
Published: May 2014

Research suggests that reminiscence can improve wellbeing. The authors describe a study of how reflection impacts on the quality of life of frail older people.
Managing cognitive impairment in older people
Authors: Ross Carol
Published: May 2014

Carol Ross explores the complexities of cognitive impairment in older people and provides a range of practical and therapeutic interventions to enable effective delivery of care.
Valuing music in the care home environment
Authors: Wenborn Jennifer
Published: May 2014

Selecting and integrating music appropriately into the care home daily routines and activities can enhance physical and mental wellbeing for all. Jennifer Wenborn explains.
Managing osteoporosis within the care home
Authors: Burrows Emma
Published: May 2014

Emma Burrows gives an overview of this problematic bone condition, and advises on how carers can inform, identify and prevent it within the nursing home.
Continence and the National Service Framework: 1
Authors: Booth Frank
Published: May 2014

Will funding be sufficient to give quality continence care? In the first of three articles, Frank Booth discusses the political issues surrounding this area of care.
A multiprofessional approach to faecal incontinence
Authors: Pomfret Ian , Vickerman Julie , Holder Clare
Published: May 2014

Ian Pomfret, Julie Vickerman and Clare Holder look at the role of nursing, occupational therapy and physiotherapy professionals within a multiprofessional continence team.
Regulation of the social care workforce
Authors: Kelly Des
Published: May 2014

Des Kelly considers the implications of standards of conduct and practice, following the creation of a General Social Care Council and the publication of Codes of Practice.
Hidden costs of NVQ training
Authors: Barham Mary
Published: May 2014

Major replacement staffing expenditure can hinder the delivery and funding of NVQs. Mary Barham explains why.
Factors to consider when choosing beds and equipment
Authors: Jepson Jill , Evans Mary-Jane
Published: May 2014

Appropriate beds enhance the lives of people living and working in care homes. The authors highlight potential problems caused by unsuitable beds and suggest possible solutions.
Multiculturalism: a melting pot?
Authors: Swee Hong Chia , Kale Swati
Published: May 2014

Have you ever struggled when working with a client who has a different cultural background to yourself? You might feel that ‘these people’ are just not compliant and want to make things difficult for themselves.
Modern wound management: an update of common products
Authors: Stringfellow S , Russell F , Cooper PJ , Gray DG
Published: May 2014

A practical knowledge of wound management products is important to deliver effective care. This article reviews commonly used dressing products available within the UK.
Use it or lose it? Cognitive functioning in older adults
Authors: Gilhooly Ken , Gilhooly Mary , Phillips Louise , Hanlon Phil
Published: May 2014

The authors describe a study which showed that regular engagement with mentally taxing activities was shown to be associated with good cognitive functioning.
Workplace support for successful learning
Authors: Sweeney Tom
Published: May 2014

Increasingly, care workers are engaging in learning and assessment programmes. Tom Sweeney looks at how all staff can play a significant role in supporting achievements.
The intricacies of the national minimum wage
Authors: Richardson Barbara
Published: May 2014

Refusing to pay the national minimum wage is a criminal offence. Barbara Richardson explains the legal rights and uses case studies to highlight problems that can arise.
The role of alert monitors in assistive technology
Authors: Morgan Celly
Published: May 2014

Assistive technology signifies increasingly sophisticated care provision. Celly Morgan evaluates Innovent Care-Alerts, which aim to avoid risks related to wandering clients.
Assistive technology: new ways to promote independence
Authors: Rice Tony
Published: May 2014

Maintaining independence is vital in promoting a good quality of life. How is this possible in closely managed environments such as care homes? Tony Rice looks at an innovative solution.
The role of the dietitian in tackling malnutrition
Authors: Smith Alison L
Published: May 2014

Alison L Smith looks at the integral role of dietitians in care homes and explains how they can help to prevent nutrition-related health problems.
Absorbent aids for the management of incontinence
Authors: Pomfret Ian
Published: May 2014

In the third article of a series, Ian Pomfret explains how to promote continence in different groups of people, describing the various products available.
Difficult decisions at the end of life
Authors: Baldwin Clive
Published: May 2014

Family carers of people with dementia carry a significant burden when faced by ethical decisions at the end of life. Clive Baldwin records their views when faced by such decisions.
Flexible working: Good news for child carers
Authors: Richardson Barbara
Published: May 2014

In the first of a two-part series, Barbara Richardson outlines what employees and employers need to know about the statutory right to request.
Doing things differently: A facilitative approach to care
Authors: Swann Julie
Published: May 2014

Julie Swann, an independent occupational therapist, introduces an enabling approach to encourage residents to become more independent with activities of daily living
Running a service that responds to individual needs
Authors: Weaver Dawn
Published: May 2014

This new series is written specifically to guide the Registered Manager Award candidate. Dawn Weaver begins by focusing on RM1: managing a service that achieves the best possible outcomes for the individual.
Managing urinary incontinence after stroke
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Most stroke survivors in nursing homes have bladder control problems. Linda Nazarko examines the reasons for this and provides practical suggestions for improving continence.
Part four: Personal care and support
Authors: Johnson Nick
Published: May 2014

Nick Johnson explains that continued involvement of a service user with life outside of his or her home is a key role of social care. This component of care is at the heart of all that we do.
The impact and management of falls in care homes
Authors: Kirby Catherine , Maher Niamh
Published: May 2014

Care home residents are at high risk of falling. Catherine Kirby and Niamh Maher discuss the impact of falls and advise on prevention and management.
Foot assessment: recognizing potential problems
Authors: Burrow JG , McLarnon NA
Published: May 2014

Foot assessment plays a vital role in detecting problems that could prove costly. The authors give a step-by-step guide and explain when it is necessary to refer clients.
What lessons can we learn from effective teamwork?
Authors: Tyrer Jane
Published: May 2014

What does quality teamwork involve, and to what extent is it important to the care of vulnerable people in care homes? Jane Tyrer considers the key issues.
Is lifelong learning a reality for older people?
Authors: Withnall Alexandra
Published: May 2014

Research shows that many older people are active learners and recognize the importance of learning in a range of different contexts. Dr Alexandra Withnall promotes the concept.
How to select quality staff for your organization
Authors: Johnson Nick
Published: May 2014

Increasing requirements are placed on employers to recruit staff with care. This need not be a burden; it not only improves the quality of service offered but also increases security.
Strategies for managing asthma in older people
Authors: Fehrenbach Chris
Published: May 2014

Asthma is common but often underestimated in older people. Good care, with regular medication and the detection of deterioration, can vastly improve quality of life.
Developing an agency approach to safe physical intervention
Authors: Leadbetter David , Paterson Brodie
Published: May 2014

What comprises a safe restraint policy? The authors explain the key issues in depth, and advise on how to tailor the response to individual service users.
Caring for patients with coronary heart disease
Authors: Johnson Kate
Published: May 2014

This article explores the diagnosis, medical management and treatment of heart disease. It focuses on acute coronary syndromes and heart failure, which are more likely to affect older people.
What does it mean to be a ‘morally active manager’?
Authors: Atkinson Dorothy , Seden Janet , Bailey Sue
Published: May 2014

Do good managers simply put into practice the values or codes of practice that apply to their organization or service? It isn't that straightforward.
The challenges of NVQs: Meeting government targets
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Care homes must develop a culture that supports and enables staff studying for NVQ qualifications. Linda Nazarko outlines the problems and possible solutions to this.
The environment and dementia: shaping ourselves
Authors: Hughes Julian C , Harris Debra
Published: May 2014

The social and the built environment have an influence on the lives of people with dementia. We continue the series on palliative care by considering the importance of our surroundings.
Creating a safe environment in our care homes
Authors: Ludford Peter
Published: May 2014

Peter Ludford, Director of Bupa Care Homes, shares some of BUPA's innovative health and safety initiatives.
The value of recreational activities within a care setting
Authors: Swann Julie
Published: May 2014

Julie Swann, an independent occupational therapist, provides ideas for enjoyable activities and describes the value of establishing a varied programme for residents.
Part one: Making decisions and being involved
Authors: Johnson Nick
Published: May 2014

To begin this series on the components of good care practice, Nick Johnson looks at how we can maximize the power and control available to service users.
Setting standards for the future
Authors: Sims Beccy
Published: May 2014

Beccy Sims reports on the latest drive to improve regulation in the care sector.
Improving quality of dying: What makes a ‘good death’?
Authors: Komaromy Carol
Published: May 2014

What constitutes a ‘good’ and ‘bad’ death? Carol Komaromy draws on course material to explore different people's concepts of this and explains how we should meet individual needs at the end of life.
Better information for the elderly
Authors: Sims Beccy
Published: May 2014

A new report explores the growing need for advocacy services to help the elderly. Beccy Sims explains.
Herbalism: Traditional medicine in a modern world
Authors: Myatt Anita
Published: May 2014

Anita Myatt explores the uses of plants as healers, from North-American tribal Indian treatments to the modern drugs used by today's physicians.
Simple steps for promoting urinary continence
Authors: Swann Julie
Published: May 2014

Urinary incontinence is not necessarily part of the ageing process; there may be medical, physiological or other reasons. Julie Swann explores approaches to tackling the problem.
Carrying out a training and development needs analysis
Authors: Howard Helen
Published: May 2014

This task is a vital part of drawing up a staff training and development programme. Helen Howard provides guidance on how to carry it out.
Report of a new dementia care training course
Authors: Doeg Rachael
Published: May 2014

In the first of a two-part article, Rachael Doeg describes the launch of a new training course in dementia care, the first nationally accredited course of its kind.
Provide information to support decision making
Authors: Robbins Fiona
Published: May 2014

This optional unit focuses on the role of information in the decision-making process and underpins all other units within the Registered Managers Award. Fiona Robbins explains.
Importance of vitamin D in preventing fractures
Authors: Gallacher Stephen
Published: May 2014

Despite guidance supporting the use of vitamin D supplements in post-menopausal women, those at risk of or suffering from osteoporosis are not receiving enough. Stephen Gallacher explains.
Using colour to improve care environments
Authors: Green Mark
Published: May 2014

Mark Green looks at how we can use the relationship between colour and human response to help create the ultimate ambience for nursing and residential care interiors.
Monitoring compliance with quality systems
Authors: Robbins Fiona
Published: May 2014

This optional unit in the registered manager award is about ensuring that all processes within your organization comply with quality systems, either internally generated or externally imposed. Fiona robbins explains.
Music therapy for residents with neurological problems
Authors: Hill Janet
Published: May 2014

Residents living with severe neurological conditions at sue ryder care have been participating in a music therapy project – with some remarkable results. Janet Hill gives the details.
How to manage residents with delirium
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Linda Nazarko explains the difference between delirium and dementia and offers guidance on how to care for individuals with this symptom.
Reducing the risk of falls among older people
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

A third of people aged 65 years and over fall each year. Linda Nazarko examines the causes of falls in older people and explains how staff can reduce their occurrence.
Balancing the books: Budgeting within residential care
Authors: Henderson Euan
Published: May 2014

Professor Euan Henderson advises managers how to prepare, negogiate and control their care home budgets, which provide a sense of direction for staff.
Person-centred care for residents with dementia
Authors: Stokes Graham
Published: May 2014

Dr Graham Stokes, Head of Mental Health at BUPA Care Services, discusses the importance of specialist training in caring for people with dementia.
Support and help people to consume food and drink
Authors: Weaver Dawn
Published: May 2014

Dawn Weaver gives a quick overview of the factors that candidates should consider when preparing mealtimes and when supporting and helping residents to eat and drink.
Managing the performance of staff teams and individuals
Authors: Robbins Fiona
Published: May 2014

Fiona Robbins advises on planning, communication, delegation, motivation and monitoring – all areas that a good manager should be familiar with.
Keeping up appearances: Helping residents to dress
Authors: Swann Julie
Published: May 2014

Julie Swann explains how we can help residents in care homes to be independent in this daily task and outlines some dressing aids available.
Developing staff to enhance performance
Authors: Robbins Fiona
Published: May 2014

This optional unit in the RMA covers all aspects of development of your team's skills and knowledge to ensure the best possible outcomes for your client group. Fiona Robbins explains.
A practical guide to using mobile hoists
Authors: Jepson Jill
Published: May 2014

Many health-care workers experience back injury as a result of moving and handling patients. Jill Jepson advises on the correct assessment for and use of a mobile hoist to reduce this risk.
Providing guests with a memorable holiday
Authors: Naylor Sue
Published: May 2014

Drawing from her work with people with learning disabilities, Sue Naylor describes a step-by-step approach to organizing an activity-based holiday for older people.
Caring for the older person with epilepsy
Authors: Yeomans Jayne
Published: May 2014

Jayne Yeomans discusses the management of epilepsy in the elderly and the importance of awareness within residential and nursing home settings.
Coping with the symptoms of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Swann Julie
Published: May 2014

Julie Swann discusses how parkinsonism affects residents and offers some practical ways of overcoming problems with daily living.
Infection risks in health care
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Linda Nazarko offers useful information on the infection risks in health care, how infections spread and how to identify and protect those at risk of infection.
News Analysis
Authors: Sims Beccy
Published: May 2014

London's care system is failing older people and in desperate need of increased funding. Beccy Sims reports on the latest investigation from the King's Fund.
Part four: Parkinson's disease and continence
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Linda Nazarko explains why people with Parkinson's disease develop bladder problems and outlines effective treatment strategies.
Heart failure: A growing challenge
Authors: Johnson Kate , Rawlings Anderson Karen
Published: May 2014

Kate Johnson and Karen Rawlings Anderson examine acute and chronic heart disease and its relevance in the care home setting.
Managing activities to meet requirements
Authors: Robbins Fiona
Published: May 2014

This optional unit in the RMA is a generic management unit taken from NVQ Level 4 in Management and covers three interrelated but distinct areas.
Managing residents with restless legs syndrome
Authors: Schneerson JM
Published: May 2014

The restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common but usually unrecognized disorder that can have a significant impact not only on the person, but also on the family and carers. It was first recognized by Thomas Willis in the 17th century, but it was only in the 1940s that it was accurately identified by a Swedish neurologist, Dr Ekbom.
An exploration of creative ageing and social theatre
Authors: Jennings Sue Emmy
Published: May 2014

There is enough evidence to show that maintaining attachments and engaging in arts-based therapies are important activities for elderly people. Dr Sue Emmy Jennings explains.
Age discrimination – are you ready for the new regulations?
Authors: Greenbank Emma
Published: May 2014

Press coverage of the Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006 has been extensive but many businesses are at risk of falling foul of the new laws.
Do inspectors really know what's going on in your care home?
Authors: Burton John
Published: May 2014

Knowing what's going on in a care home (and reporting to the public) is precisely what inspection is for, yet in the author's experience inspectors often miss both good and poor practice. If they can't spot what's going right and what's going wrong, what chance have they of deciding how many ‘stars’ to award when the new ‘quality rating system’ is introduced next year?
A day in the life of a… Care Home Manager
Authors: Caldwell Beryl
Published: May 2014

I drive to work each morning along with thousands of other commuters along the busy M6 and M60 motorways through Lancashire, Greater Manchester and Cheshire.
Respect: At the heart of care
Authors: Sims Beccy
Published: May 2014

Beccy Sims reports on the government's latest campaign to ensure that elderly people are treated with dignity and respect throughout the care system.
The diagnosis and treatment of acute stroke
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

High quality evidence-based care can make the difference between life and death and between lifelong disability and good recovery. Linda Nazarko explains how stroke is diagnosed and treated.
Improving nutritional care in older people
Authors: Jordan Mary
Published: May 2014

With older people at risk of malnourishment, Mary Jordon focuses on the nutritional needs of residents and the factors which may interefere with adequate food intake and digestion.
It is time for building bridges
Authors: Dimon Carol
Published: May 2014

Members of the public and the health professions often consider that there is little skill involved in the care provided in a residential or nursing home. This does not help relationships between the NHS and the independent care home sector. For example, staff in the NHS are often quick to blame the care home if a patient has a pressure sore – yet, residents may return from hospital with a pressure sore.