bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Congenital and Acquired Systemic Venous Anomalies: A Potpourri of Right to Left Shunts
Authors: Steele Jeremy , Prieto Lourdes , Majdalany David , Stewart Robert , Najm Hani , Yaman Malek El
Published: September 2018

Systemic venous anomalies can occur in isolation or in association with other congenital heart disease. A left superior vena cava draining to a roofed coronary sinus represents the most common venous variant and is usually inconsequential. Embryologic or acquired disruptions in systemic veins can be problematic due to shunting and/or venous obstruction. In this case series, we report four systemic venous anomalies in patients with atrial and ventricular situs solitus. Each case demonstrates how clinically significant right to left shunts can occur from a systemic vein to the left atrium. Diagnosis in each of these patients was delayed due to suboptimal diagnostic testing. Accurate diagnosis can be made by thorough anatomic evaluation of the presence, patency, and drainage of all systemic veins and supported with proper planning and interpretation of bubble studies.
Occupational Health Nursing Research Priorities
Authors: Rogers Bonnie , Agnew Jacqueline , Pompeii Lisa
Published: September 2018

This article reports a study to reexamine and update the research priorities in occupational health nursing. In this investigation, a 15% geographically proportionate random sample of AAOHN members was surveyed using a two-stage Delphi technique to determine important occupational health related areas needing targeted research. Research participants evaluated 37 potential research priorities in relation to impact on worker health and value to the profession, and 12 priorities emerged.
Poliomyelitis
Authors: Williams Carol G.
Published: September 2018

This is a comparative analysis of findings from a sample of individuals who had poliomyelitis with findings from seminal works on post polio syndrome. The sample included 148 individuals who developed poliomyelitis earlier in life. The findings are compared with the seminal studies of Halstead (1985a, 1985b). Seventy-two percent of the sample were experiencing post polio syndrome, defined as having progressive fatigue and one other symptom of sequelae to a moderate or severe degree. The mean age of the sample was 54. The majority of subjects had some college education, were married, belonged to support groups, and were employed. The mean age for contracting polio was 10.5, with a mean of 3.8 years to maximum recovery. At onset of the initial illness, 121 subjects were hospitalized. The period of stability from the point of maximum recovery to onset of sequelae had a mean of 29.8 years. Fatigue and muscle weakness at onset were predictive for developing sequelae. Subjects' lifestyle changes are reported. Implications focus on workplace issues. This study supports and extends the findings of the seminal works.
Indicators of Intimate Partner Violence in Women's Employment
Authors: McFarlane Judith , Malecha Ann , Gist Julia , Schultz Pamela , Willson Pamela , Fredland Nina
Published: September 2018

The study examined the indicators and consequences of intimate partner violence on women's employment and associated types and levels of violence. Interviews were conducted with a consecutive sample of 90 women seeking a protective order. Actual and threatened violence was measured with the Severity of Violence Against Women Scales (46 items). Eight questions were asked about type of harassment experienced at the worksite. The results found most of the abused women had been employed at one time (87%) and had also experienced harassment from an intimate partner related to their work (89%). Findings indicated lost productivity and reduced performance. The researchers concluded poor work performance, tardiness, and absenteeism may indicate an employee is suffering from intimate partner violence.
Latex Sensitivity in Washington State Acute Care Hospitals
Authors: Cohen Martin A. , Kaufman Joel D.
Published: September 2018

Based on reports from the workers' compensation system and a sentinel health provider network, latex gloves may be one of the most prevalent sources of occupational skin disorders in Washington State's health care industry. To gather information to understand and address this problem, questionnaires were distributed to 105 acute care hospitals in Washington State. Employee health and infection control specialists were queried on their knowledge about latex allergy, the perceived extent of the problem, and the actions taken to address the problem. With 95 of the hospitals returning completed questionnaires (93% response rate), 30% reported having problems with latex allergies among employees in their facility, with most reporting two or fewer cases. Adequate knowledge was found about the causes and effects of latex allergies, but definite knowledge gaps existed. More than 60% of all of the hospitals surveyed had made some type of glove alternatives available to affected employees, 4% had designated latex free zones, 4% had cleaned to remove latex dust, and 7% had done nothing to address the issue.
Initiating an Ergonomic Analysis
Authors: Conrad Karen M. , Lavender Steven A. , Reichelt Paul A. , Meyer Fred T.
Published: September 2018

Occupational health nurses play a vital role in addressing ergonomic problems in the workplace. Describing and documenting exposure to ergonomic risk factors is a relatively straightforward process in jobs in which the work is repetitive. In other types of work, the analysis becomes much more challenging because tasks may be repeated infrequently, or at irregular time intervals, or under different environmental and temporal conditions, thereby making it difficult to observe a “representative” sample of the work performed. This article describes a process used to identify highly variable job tasks for ergonomic analyses. The identification of tasks for ergonomic analysis was a two step process involving interviews and a survey of firefighters and paramedics from a consortium of 14 suburban fire departments. The interviews were used to generate a list of frequently performed, physically strenuous job tasks and to capture clear descriptions of those tasks and associated roles. The goals of the survey were to confirm the interview findings across the entire target population and to quantify the frequency and degree of strenuousness of each task. In turn, the quantitative results from the survey were used to prioritize job tasks for simulation. Although this process was used to study firefighters and paramedics, the approach is likely to be suitable for many other types of occupations in which the tasks are highly variable in content and irregular in frequency.
Cultural Sensitivity and Day Care Workers
Authors: Williams Armenia , Mason Ann , Wold Judith
Published: September 2018

Reaching workers in small worksites presents economic and access barriers for occupational health nurses. Some barriers can be overcome through strategies based on cultural sensitivity. Day care centers employ young, low income, mostly minority women in settings with few workers onsite at any one center. These settings were used to develop a culturally sensitive approach tested through onsite cardiovascular screening, informal interviews, and discussion of behavior change for better health. The study examined both the impact of the Healthier People Health Risk Appraisal (HPHRA) as a culturally appropriate recruitment strategy to involve a group of child day care workers in a cardiovascular disease (CVD) screening and risk reduction program and the effect of that program on observable CVD measures. Faculty and students from an institution of higher education forged a trust relationship with day care providers at nine day care centers in a large metropolitan area. Cardiovascular health was the impetus for the project because minority populations in the southeastern United States have high heart attack and stroke mortality and morbidity rates. Participation rates in the project increased from 26% of the day care workers in the first year of the project to 73% when long term relationships were built on culturally appropriate strategies. The project's culturally sensitive educational intervention focused on individual risks and lifestyle. Statistical analysis of outcomes of the intervention and personal interviews demonstrated the improvement of cardiovascular status in the day care workers. This psychosocial approach can provide the foundation for culturally sensitive care in larger occupational and community settings.
What are the Legal or Malpractice Issues Faced by Case Managers?
Authors: Wassel Mary Lou , Tourigian Robin , Haag Annette B. , Kalina Christine M.
Published: September 2018

At the request of our readers, we are adding a special feature focusing on case management. This feature will appear on an occasional basis in the Journal. Based on the suggestion of a reader, we are using a Panel approach to provide a forum for sharing ideas, viewpoints, and perspectives. We have put together a group of individuals with expertise from a variety of case management arenas who have agreed to serve as Panel members. For each feature Panel members will share their opinions and perspectives in response to specific questions or scenarios. We encourage readers to submit their questions or scenarios for the Panel. This month's Panel members include Mary Lou Wassel, Robin Tourigian, Annette B. Haag, and Christine M. Kalina. The question for this month's feature comes from the Case Management Section Meeting at AOHC in San Francisco.
Benefits of a Nurse Directed over the Counter Medication Dispensing System in an Automotive Plant
Authors: Abdoo Yvonne , Lusk Sally L. , Darling-Fisher Cynthia S. , Ronis David L. , Kowalski Richard J.
Published: September 2018

Information is limited about the effects of the availability of over the counter medicines (OTCs) at a worksite on workers' ability to remain at work and the effect on health care utilization. The purpose of this preliminary study was to assess workers' perceptions related to the benefits of having a nurse directed over the counter medication dispensing system (OTCMS) at an automotive manufacturing plant. Fifty-six percent of 257 randomly selected workers who participated in semistructured interviews indicated they used OTCs as the first intervention when at home, and 88% had obtained OTCs from the plant's medical department. The workers were overwhelmingly positive about having an OTCMS available at their worksite. Eighty-nine percent indicated that having OTCs available from the occupational health nurse made it possible for them to stay at work and complete their shift. Not only did the workers find the OTCMS to be an asset in their worksite, but they also highly recommended having an OTCMS available in work settings that do not presently have one in place.
How Does the HIPAA Privacy Standard Affect Case Management?
Authors: Kalina Christine M. , Annette B. Haag , Wassel Mary Lou , Tourigian Robin
Published: September 2018

At the request of our readers, we present this special feature on case management. This feature appears on an occasional basis in the Journal. Based on the suggestion of a reader, we are using a Panel approach to provide a forum for sharing ideas, viewpoints, and perspectives. We have put together a group of individuals with expertise from a variety of case management arenas who have agreed to share their opinions and perspectives in response to specific questions or scenarios. Opinions and perspectives are those of the panel members, and do not necessarily represent the views of the AAOHN, the Editor, or the Publisher. We encourage readers to submit their questions or scenarios for the Panel. This month's Panel members include Christine M. Kalina, Annette B. Haag, Mary Lou Wassel, and Robin Tourigian. The question for this month's feature comes from the Case Management Section Meeting at AOHC 2001 in San Francisco.
Office Workers and Video Display Terminals
Authors: Travers Patricia Hyland , Stanton Babette-Ann
Published: September 2018

The purpose of the pilot study was to examine the psychological and physical symptoms reported by video display terminal (VDT) and non-VDT users in relation to intensity and duration of VDT exposure, ergonomic characteristics of the work station, workers' perceptions of the working environments, medical conditions, job satisfaction, and mood states. Thirty VDT users and 16 non VDT users were selected from four departments of a major radiopharmaceutical company for participation in the cross-sectional study. Self-administered questionnaires were utilized to obtain information on symptoms, medical conditions, job satisfaction, mood states, and the working environments. Objective measurements were obtained to provide information on the various ergonomic components of the work station. The study corroborated findings reported in previous studies, whereby eye related symptoms were associated with VDT usage. A higher percentage of symptoms were reported among VDT users even when they had more control over their work stations. These workers expressed higher levels of job satisfaction, and lower levels of tension, fatigue, con-fusion, anger, and depression than non-VDT users. Most importantly, a trend in symptomatology was identified, whereby symptoms appeared to increase as duration of VDT exposure increased.
Pulmonary Function Testing Procedures: A Preliminary Study of Local Occupational Health Clinics
Authors: Burke-Klein Eileen
Published: September 2018

For the results of pulmonary function testing to be valid, the examination must be administered by a knowledgeable technician and the instrument must fulfill performance criteria. In general, most small to mid-sized industries rely upon local medical clinics to provide pulmonary function tests. Because of this, a survey was undertaken to study the pulmonary function testing services available at occupational medical clinics in a large metropolitan area. The purpose of this study was: 1. to determine the percentage of clinics complying with the program prerequisites mentioned above, and 2. to identify the other predictive characteristics of clinics more likely to meet these standards.

A random sample of occupational medical clinics providing pulmonary function testing were selected for this study. Of the 31 clinics providing pulmonary function testing services, a random sample of 14 were chosen to perticipate; for these clinics, administrators and/or physicians were interviewed and testing equipment was examined. It was found that 17% of clinics employed certified technicians to conduct testing and 42% had instruments meeting performance specifications. Overall, only 8% of the sample met both prerequisites. No significant relationship was found between selected variables that it was hoped would identify clinics more likely to perform valid pulmonary function testing. It is believed that a larger sample size would be necessary to establish such significant correlations.
Reducing the Risk of Acquiring: Aids
Authors: Tillis Myra S.
Published: September 2018

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a primary concern to society at large and to the health care profession. It is the latest and the most life-threatening of the sexually transmitted diseases. Sexually active individuals, both homosexual and heterosexual, are at risk. These individuals should have access to education that will help them to understand risk reduction measures related to the HTLV-III virus that is responsible for AIDS infection. The condom is a device which has been used for years to prevent sexually transmitted diseases; however, instructions on correct use of this barrier are not stressed enough. The condom, when used correctly, is a possible means of preventing the exchange of body fluids by sexual intercourse. Nurses must take responsibility for providing preventive information to risk groups and especially occupational health nurses who are responsible for the health education of individuals in the work setting. Providing preventive education such as correct technique for condom use is one way to prevent or restrain the spread of AIDS.
Health Hazards in the Workplace: An Approach to Surveillance
Authors: Sutherland Jean , Clegg Susan , DeCourcey Karen
Published: September 2018

Surveillance programs serve as a useful tool in assisting occupational health nurses in identifying employees with existing or potential health problems due to toxic exposures. They also assist the company in pinpointing potential health hazards in the work environment.

The surveillance assessment can serve as a useful tool in encouraging safe practices in the workplace and encouraging management to comply with OSHA, state, or company regulations. The surveillance assessment further serves asa vehicle for assisting the occupational health nurse in developing a procedure for collecting information regarding hazards in the workplace.

When developing a protocol for conducting physical examinations, the occupational health nurse mustbe able to identify those toxinswhich are present in the workplace, describe signs and symptoms which employees mayexhibit when suffering from overexposure to a hazard, and plan for dealing with such exposure situations.
The Effectiveness of Peer Recognition on Motivation
Authors: Broughton Sue
Published: September 2018

The value of recognition as a motivator has been well documented. The difficult question today is how to establish an ongoing peer recognition program that will involve most staff members. The process that one acute care hospital used to accomplish this goal is analyzed. The author discusses needs assessment, plan, resources, implementation, evaluation and program maintenance.
The Multidimensional: Health Locus of Control: Applied to Four Classifications of Working Adults
Authors: Rieth Lori
Published: September 2018

The purpose of this study was to apply the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale to the Perceived Control portion of Pender's Health Belief Model. The sample respondents consisted of healthy adults employed by a major corporation in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin, area.

The first aim of this study was to determine how a sample of adult office workers perceived control of their own health status. The second aim was to explore whether perception of control of health status differed according to occupational class among a sample of clerical, technical, professional, and managerial workers.

The literature was reviewed in the following areas: locus of control, health locus of control, and the relationship between the two as they relate to the health belief model. Rationale for studying health locus of control is supported in the literature.

Using a descriptive survey approach with questionnaire instrumentation, data were collected from 226 employees employed by a Fortune 500 Company in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Descriptive statistics were utilized in the data analysis.

The results of the study indicated that this particular sample of adult employees generally perceive themselves to have a high degree of internal control over their health status. Further, there was little difference among the mean scores of perception of control among clerical, technical, professional, and managerial workers.

Recommendations were made that the study be repeated using a blue-collar population. In addition, hypotheses were generated about the relationship of age, sex, education, and occupational class to determine the degree of their impact on health locus of control. The implications for nursing practice and recommendations for health promotion activities are presented.
Substance Abuse
Authors: Wedding Danny
Published: September 2018

Substance abuse is a serious problem in the workplace which costs employers millions of dollars each year in both direct and indirect costs. This cost is in addition to the human pain and suffering which exists for the individual addicted to drugs or alcohol and for his or her family This article addresses the specific problem of substance abuse in the Vietnam veteran.
Diabetic Workers
Authors: Childre Frances , Moore Pamela V.
Published: September 2018

The purpose of this study was to describe how diabetics manage and cope with their disease within the work environment. Interview data obtained from nine insulin treated working diabetics were qualitatively analyzed using the constant comparative method. A process of interactions among three interlinking categories emerged. These categories are: 1) health, which includes both perception of health and physical state of health; 2) self-image; and 3) feelings about one's work environment. Based on the interactions of the worker with these three categories, each participant was classified as one of three theoretical types: the Decision-Maker, the Loyal Worker and the Fatalist. Each type of worker interacts within the framework of the three core categories and responds differently to changes within one of these parameters. The significance of these interactions in relationship to the occupational health nurse is discussed.
Health Education in the Workplace
Authors: Conn Rosemary , Barclay Linda
Published: September 2018

Nurses from occupational health care settings around the world, interpreting the theme “Communication, Health Care, and the Community,” presented papers at the First International Conference on Occupational Health Nursing in Edinburgh, Scotland in October, 1986. In keeping with AAOHN's commitment to an international perspective, this article is Part I of a five part series of articles that will be printed in the AAOHN JOURNAL. Next month, Part II of the series will feature, “Traditional and Modern Medicine in Worker Health Care.”
Nurses' Body Fluid Exposure Reporting, HIV Testing, and Hepatitis B Vaccination Rates
Authors: Ramsey Priscilla W. , Glenn L. Lee
Published: September 2018

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether mandatory universal precautions changed nurses' body fluid exposure and reporting rates, hepatitis B vaccination rates, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing rates. Random cross-sectional surveys of nurses in Tennessee were conducted in 1991 and 1993 (n = 145 in 1991; n = 143 in 1993). The questionnaire in both surveys included frequency of body fluid exposures and reporting in the past year, and whether or not the respondent had received the hepatitis B vaccine or had been HIV tested. Findings indicated that self reported needlestick injuries decreased by 69%, and other sharps injuries decreased by 81%. Only 4.1% of all exposure incidents reported on this anonymous survey were reported to employee health officials, as required. Body fluid exposure incidents were the most common form of exposure (81%) and the most underreported. Hepatitis B vaccinations significantly increased (61.4% to 82.5%), with a nonsignificant increase in HIV testing (47.2% to 55.6%) from 1991 to 1993. Findings of this study suggest that the universal precautions regulatory mandate has been effective in increasing nurses' compliance to universal precautions. Body fluid contacts were significantly underreported and showed no decrease between 1991 and 1993.
Effectiveness of Contingency Contracting
Authors: Zandee Gail Landheer , Oermann Marilyn H.
Published: September 2018

The purpose of this study was to measure weight loss in overweight employees of a large corporation in Western Michigan who all received the same education on how to lose weight, but were randomly assigned to one of three groups: contingency contracting with a partner, contingency contracting alone, or no contingency contracting. A pretest-posttest quasi-experimental design was used and data were collected by a demographic questionnaire and measure of weight at the initial, 10th, and 23rd weeks. A total of 84 subjects completed the 10 week weight loss program and 57 subjects returned for the 23rd week follow up weight. Each group lost a significant amount of weight from pre-program to 10 weeks; however, there were no significant differences across groups. Although the groups were not significantly different from each other, the results support the value of individualizing interventions and offer insight into how demographic variables may affect attrition and methods chosen for weight loss.
Occupational Health Nurses and Occupational Hygiene
Authors: Lowe Rosalie , Rees D.
Published: September 2018

The objectives of this study were to assess the current occupational hygiene practices of occupational health nurses and to assess their attitudes to the identification and initial quantification of workplace hazards. A questionnaire was mailed to all occupational health nurses registered with the South African Society of Occupational Health Nurses. Responses were obtained from 221 (53.7%). Responders and non-responders did not differ on key characteristics. Only 14 (6%) of the respondents performed occupational hygiene tasks as part of their routine work and only 31 (14%) volunteered hazard identification and quantification as tasks that would significantly improve practice. Nevertheless, when asked directly, 120 (54%) agreed that occupational hygiene fell into the ambit of occupational health nursing. Over 70% were positive about receiving theoretical and practical hygiene training. Constraints to greater hazard identification included limited time and resources and concern about intruding into the domains of other practitioners. Sufficient numbers of occupational health nurses were interested in identifying hazards in the workplace for training courses to be planned and offered now; however, restraints to practice need to be clarified and removed for these new skills to be used effectively.
Evaluation of a 3 Year Education and Training Program
Authors: Lagerström Monica , Hagberg Mats
Published: September 2018

An education and training program comprising 1) patient transfer technique, 2) physical fitness exercise, and 3) stress management was conducted during 3 consecutive years at a Swedish hospital. The present study was based on data from four sets of questionnaires, distributed to 348 female nursing personnel who participated in the entire program. The aim of the study was to evaluate the program. It was evident from the questionnaires that 90% of the subjects were positive about participating in the program and 88% expected that participation would lead to decreased musculoskeletal disorders. However, no decrease in the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms during the study time period was observed. One year after the cessation of the program, 93% of all nurses reported they mostly or always used the new patient transfer technique and 99% considered it to be useful.
Employee Perceived Stress
Authors: Hess Darlene
Published: September 2018

Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs), specifically carpal tunnel syndrome, are the fastest growing type of occupational injury. Research about precipitating factors and prevention has been controversial and inconclusive. Preventive measures typically have addressed ergonomic changes. The purpose of this research article is to describe the effects of several variables on the perceived development of RSI symptoms, particularly those of carpal tunnel syndrome. Emphasis was placed on the role of perceived stress. The study design was a descriptive survey using a nonprobability sampling method. The study focused on four variables related to perceptions of symptoms: 1) perceptions of level of knowledge related to the prevention of RSIs; 2) taking a specific action to make one's workstation more ergonomically correct; 3) perceptions of having ergonomically correct workstations; and 4) perceptions of being stressed. Study results indicated that perceived stress was significantly associated with perceived RSI symptoms. Workers who use a computer 4 or more hours per day reported significantly more symptoms than those who did not. At risk computer users who perceive an ergonomically correct workstation reported fewer symptoms. To prevent RSIs, occupational health nurses must address ergonomics, stress levels, and knowledge levels.
Certification and Occupational Health Nursing
Authors: Verrall A. Brian
Published: September 2018

This article is based on excerpts from the Catherine Dempsey Lecture (American Occupational Health Conference, 1997), delivered by A. Brian Verrall, Chairman, American Board for Occupational Health Nurses, Inc. (ABOHN) in recognition of the 25th anniversary of ABOHN. The Catherine Dempsey Lecture honors the first president of AAOHN. The article is second in a series of three articles addressing credentialing to appear in AAOHN Journal. The first article, “Credentialing: Concerns and Issues Affecting Occupational Health Nursing,” by Olson, Verrall, and Lundvall appeared in the May 1997 issue [45(5):231–238].
Understandings of Health
Authors: Ness Pat
Published: September 2018

The purpose of the study was to discover what the concept of health means to the participants and to determine how an organization can assist its members in developing and maintaining their notion of health. The participants for this study were drawn from the employees at a post secondary educational institution. Tape recorded interviews were transcribed by the researcher, and the transcripts were analyzed for common topics and predominant themes.

Imbedded in the data were four themes that provided an over arching conceptual framework from which to view health and health promoting activities: well being as a broad definition of health; the concept of balance as a prime contributor to health; the notion of self efficacy in determining one's health, and the value of caring as a significant determinant of health.

Findings of the study have significance for individual health, organizations and health, health promoters, and further research.
Risk of Tuberculosis Transmission in Dentistry
Authors: Murphy Denise C. , Younai Fariba S.
Published: September 2018

This pilot project was conducted for the purpose of performing a retrospective chart review on selected clients and using the results for evaluating purified protein derivative (PPD) conversion rates among the student population. The occupational risk of exposure to active tuberculosis was assessed in a large dental educational setting. Charts of clients seen in the College's Oral Medicine Clinic, referred out for health care consultation for one of several reasons potentially associated with active tuberculosis disease over a 1 year period, were reviewed. Data sources included the medical consultation log and the tuberculosis log, which were maintained by faculty in the Oral Medicine Clinic. Ninety-six clients met the authors' criteria. However, compiling data was severely hampered for two reasons: missing charts (19 of 96, or 19.8%) and non-returning clients (55, or 57%). Four clients with potentially active cases of tuberculosis were identified. Follow up revealed, however, that none of these four clients was contagious when seen at the Dental Center.

The protocol and definition recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1994 Guidelines, and the results of PPD screening and chart audit conducted by the authors, suggest that the employees and students of the College of Dentistry are at low risk for workplace exposure to active tuberculosis.
Linda Rosenstock, NIOSH Director, Talks about NIOSH's Relationship with Occupational Health Nursing
Authors: Lukes Eileen
Published: September 2018

This is the first in an occasional series of interviews with leaders in occupational health and areas relating to occupational health.
Feasibility of a Nurse Staffed Lift Team
Authors: Caska Barbara A. , Patnode Rosemary E. , Clickner Deborah
Published: September 2018

The present investigation evaluated the feasibility of creating a lift team with existent medical center nursing staff. Four nurse volunteers at low risk for injury were trained in proper lifting techniques and equipment use. Scheduled and paged maximal assistance transfers were performed by rotating pairs of team members over 21 days. The team successfully completed 94% of requested lifts, averaging 25 per day. Transfers between bed and chair were performed most frequently with the aid of a transfer belt. Greatest demands for team services were on a nursing home unit and an extended/subacute care unit. Unit staff responded positively to the team. Further research is needed to determine the team's impact on unit wide staff injuries and to evaluate the long term effects of working as a lift team member.
Tinnitus as an Early Indicator of Permanent Hearing Loss
Authors: Griest Susan E. , Bishop Patricia M.
Published: September 2018

A retrospective study was designed to evaluate tinnitus (ringing or other sounds in the ears or head) as a potential early indicator of permanent hearing loss in a population of noise exposed workers. Data were examined from 91 male employees working in environments with noise levels ranging from 8 hour time weighted averages of 85 to 101 dBA over a period of 15 years. Results of annual audiometric testing were obtained as part of an ongoing hearing conservation program conducted since 1971 by ESCO Corporation, a steel foundry located in the Portland, Oregon metropolitan area. Results indicate the prevalence of tinnitus increases more than two and one half times for workers experiencing maximum threshold shifts ≥15 decibels in hearing level (dBHL). Results also provide evidence that reports of tinnitus at the time of annual audiometric testing may be useful in identifying workers at greater risk for developing significant shifts in hearing thresholds.
Social Role Quality and Psychological Well Being
Authors: Miller Arlene Michaels , Wilbur JoEllen , Montgomery Andrew C. , Chandler Peggy
Published: September 2018

This study examined relationships among job, partner, and parent role quality and psychological well being in midlife black (n = 51) and white (n = 56) women employed in occupations varying by socioeconomic status (SES). Oversampling for black women ensured balanced occupational representation, allowing investigation uncontaminated by SES. Instruments included Baruch and Barnett's Rewards and Concerns Scales, Bradburn Affect Balance Scale, and Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). Better well being scores were reported by black women than whites, and by professionals than non-professionals. However, when race, occupational group, and menopausal status were held constant in a multiple regression analysis, partner role quality was significantly related to both well being scores, parent role quality was related to life satisfaction only, and job role quality was not related to either. Nurses in the workplace can help women identify problematic aspects of their multiple social roles, and facilitate resolution of problems to improve worker health.
Repositioning a Slumped Person in a Wheelchair
Authors: Varcin-Coad Lynn , Barrett Rod
Published: September 2018

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of three lifting techniques (unassisted lift, vertically assisted lift, and horizontally assisted lift) and two patient masses (65 kg and 75 kg) on loads acting on the lifter's spine when repositioning a wheelchair bound patient to a more upright sitting position. A static biomechanical model was used in conjunction with ground reaction force and videographic data to estimate compression and shear forces at the lumbosacral (L5/S1) joint. Results indicated that: L5/S1 compression forces associated with both unassisted and assisted transfers were of sufficient magnitude to warrant mechanical assistance, the two person technique with the assistant pushing the legs toward the back of the chair was associated with the lowest spinal loads; and L5/S1 compression forces were significantly greater for the vertically assisted lift compared to the unassisted lift. If a manual transfer is to be performed, the horizontally assisted lift is recommended to minimize loads on the lumbar spine of the lifter.
A Workplace Stretching Program
Authors: Moore Terry McCaffrey
Published: September 2018

The purpose of this study was to implement a primary prevention program in the workplace targeted to prevent muscle strains. Physiologic and perception measurements were taken before and after participation in a stretching program developed to improve flexibility through conditioning. A one group pre-test post-test design was used with 60 employees enrolled in a 36 session stretching program in the workplace. Flexibility was measured by a flexibility profile including the sit and reach test, bilateral body rotation measurements, and shoulder rotation measurements. A statistically significant increase was found in all flexibility measurements at the conclusion of the study for the participants as a total group. Perception, as measured by the Fox Physical Self Perception Profile, was statistically significant in relation to participants' perceptions of their body attractiveness, physical conditioning, and overall self worth at the program's conclusion. In addition, participants who completed the program had zero occurrences of musculoskeletal injuries during the 2 month period. The results of this study suggest that continued development and implementation of stretching programs in the workplace may benefit employees by increasing flexibility and potentially preventing injuries due to muscle strains. Stretching programs in the workplace also may improve components of employees' perceptions of their physical bodies.
Worksite Cholesterol and Nutrition: An Intervention Project in Colorado
Authors: Anderson Jennifer , Dusenbury Linda
Published: September 2018

The study purpose was to determine whether group intervention or an individual self help program proved to be more effective at lowering heart disease risk factors among employees in different worksites. Eight worksites and 502 employees in the Denver metropolitan area were selected for the project, with four randomized to Usual Care and four to the Special Intervention. Most worksites had <200 employees. Employees were randomly assigned to either a control group receiving usual nutrition education or one of two special intervention groups in which employees selected to attend group nutrition education classes or complete an individual self paced nutrition education program.

Results indicated that offering a choice of methods for the special nutrition education intervention was valuable, and both approaches modified behavior and certain physiological outcomes. Results suggested that enhanced nutrition education efforts in worksites may be effective and will realize greater benefits than a pamphlet or brief discussion following a worksite screening.
Return to Work Experience of Injured Workers in a Case Management Program
Authors: Brines Julie , Salazar Mary K. , Graham Katherine Y. , Pergola Tanya
Published: September 2018

A major goal of case management programs is the worker's timely return to work. Few studies have examined return to work from the perspective of the injured worker. This article describes the findings from the case management evaluation that describe the return to work experience of workers who sustained catastrophic injuries, or who had secondary conditions or complications following the injury occurrence. Among the factors determined to affect the return to work experience were structural factors (i.e., psychosocial variables including job satisfaction and relationship with employer and coworkers, financial pressures, and system issues such as securing benefits) and process factors (i.e., interaction with service providers and with the workers' compensation system). Outcomes are described in terms of satisfaction with services and return to work.
Case Management for Injured Workers: A Descriptive Study using a Record Review
Authors: Tsai Jenny Hsin-Chun , Salazar Mary K. , Graham Katherine Young , Brines Julie
Published: September 2018

A record review was used to examine case management services provided to 36 workers who sustained a catastrophic or medically complex injury, and who were referred to a case management program. The aims of this phase of the evaluation were to identify and describe:

• Workers' demographics and personal attributes,

• The structures and processes that affected the course of these cases, and

• The role of the nurse case manager (NCM).

A data collection instrument was developed to collect quantitative and qualitative information. Structural factors that emerged as most consequential included the quality and quantity of the injured worker's social support and the employment situation, including the availability of a job post-injury, employer support, and worker motivation. Process variables identified included the interactions of service providers including communication, and collaboration. The NCM was described as a monitor, coordinator, supporter, and advocate for the worker. Additionally, the NCM served as a consultant to other service providers and played a key role in the implementation of cost containment strategies.
The Safety of a Far Medial Arthroscopic Portal for Anatomic Glenoid Reconstruction: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Moga Iustin , Konstantinidis George , Wong Ivan Ho-Bun
Published: September 2018

Background:

An arthroscopic technique for anatomic glenoid reconstruction has been proposed for the treatment of glenohumeral bone loss in patients with recurrent shoulder instability. This technique is proposed as an alternative to open techniques as well as to the technically challenging arthroscopic Latarjet procedure. In arthroscopic anatomic glenoid reconstruction, a distal tibial allograft is inserted through a novel far medial portal, superior to the subscapularis tendon and lateral to the conjoint tendon.

Purpose:

To evaluate the safety of the far medial arthroscopic portal for anatomic glenoid reconstruction in a cadaveric study.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

Ten cadaveric shoulder specimens were dissected after inside-out medial arthroscopic portal insertion in the lateral decubitus position for arthroscopic anatomic glenoid reconstruction. A single observer performed 3 measurements on each specimen with a digital caliper (to the nearest 0.1 mm) from the medial portal to neurovascular structures, and the mean (±SD) and the range were calculated. The anthropometric data of the cadaveric specimens were also collected.

Results:

The mean distances between the far medial arthroscopic portal and sensitive anatomic structures were as follows: 50.79 ± 13.69 mm from the musculocutaneous nerve, 46.28 ± 9.64 mm from the axillary nerve, 6.71 ± 8.52 mm from the cephalic vein, and 48.52 ± 7.22 mm from the subclavian artery and vein. The mean size of the medial arthroscopic portal was 25.60 mm. In all cases, the subscapularis muscle was intact.

Conclusion:

The far medial arthroscopic portal for anatomic glenoid reconstruction without a subscapularis split presents a minimal risk to most neurovascular structures during bony reconstruction of the glenoid surface in patients with anterior shoulder instability. The only anatomic structure at risk is the cephalic vein, while the axillary and musculocutaneous nerves are at a safe distance away from the portal, based on previous shoulder arthroscopic portal safety studies in the literature.

Clinical Relevance:

Arthroscopic anatomic glenoid reconstruction using a distal tibial allograft is increasing in popularity for the treatment of anterior shoulder instability with significant bone loss. Being a relatively new technique, the safety of it has yet to be established. This study aimed to demonstrate the safety of a new portal used for arthroscopic anatomic glenoid reconstruction.
Characterization of clays and the technology of Roman ceramics production
Authors: Ceccarelli Letizia , Bellotto Maurizio Pietro , Caruso Marco , Cristiani Cinzia , Dotelli Giovanni , Gallo Stampino Paola , Gasti Giuseppina , Primavesi Luca
Published: September 2018

The recent discovery of a Roman ceramics manufacturing workshop at Montelabate (Perugia, Italy), in use from the first century BC until the late-fourth to fifth centuries AD, offers a unique opportunity to study the technical processes for producing Roman amphorae. Ancient and modern clays were sampled and analysed; they do not differ significantly, supporting the hypothesis of the exploitation of the rich local clay source that allowed a continuity of production. Characterization of the clays was performed using geotechnical methods (Atterberg limits and size distribution) and by thermogravimetric and differential thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and X-ray fluorescence analyses. The material was suitable for pottery making with the addition of calcite and quartz sand temper. Production waste and discarded materials as well as good-quality products were also analysed with the same methodology. It is therefore possible to reconstruct the ancient technology by defining the recipe for the production of the amphorae and their firing temperature on the basis of the decomposition of clay materials and the presence of newly formed minerals.
Sex‐related differences in coordination and variability among foot joints during running
Authors: Takabayashi Tomoya , Edama Mutsuaki , Inai Takuma , Kubo Masayoshi
Published: September 2018

Background

Women, as compared with men, have a higher proportion of injuries in the ankle/foot region. However, the reason for this sex‐related difference in foot injuries remains unclear. Recently, joint coordination and variability of coordination have been suggested to be a critical index for defining both the state of injury and the potential risk of injury. The purpose of this study was to investigate sex‐related differences in coordination and variability among the foot joints during running.

Methods

Twelve healthy men and 12 healthy women ran on a treadmill. A modified vector coding technique was used to identify coordination and variability among foot joints involving the shank, rearfoot, midfoot, and forefoot segments, and categorized into the following four coordination patterns: in‐phase with proximal dominancy, in‐phase with distal dominancy, anti‐phase with proximal dominancy, and anti‐phase with distal dominancy.

Results

There were no differences in all spatiotemporal parameters and in the foot strike angle between men and women. Coordination of variability of the foot joints during running was similar between men and women, but the anti‐phase with proximal dominancy in proportion of frontal rearfoot‐shank vs. midfoot‐rearfoot couple (men; 7.2%, women; 13.9%) and midfoot‐rearfoot vs. forefoot‐midfoot couple (men; 18.6%, women; 39.8%) in women was significantly increased compared to that in men. Other all coordination of the foot joints during running differed between men and women, and effect sizes of these parameters were all large.

Conclusion

The results may be useful for understanding the underlying mechanism contributing to differences in injury risk in men and women, and may provide novel data on foot joint coordination and variability that could be used as reference data for both biomechanical and clinical running studies.