bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BookReviews
Authors: Young Natasha
Published: May 2014

This book is a compendium of papers given at the 8th International Congress of Women's Health Issues held in Canada in June 1997.It consists of 29 chapters which have been arranged into 5 themes: theoretical and practical issues, the trauma of sexual abuse and violence across the lifespan, reproduction, motherhood and the social control of women, traditional cultures and women's health, and globalization, corporate greed and their impact on women's image, health and work.
How to Organize a holiday
Authors: Ashurst Adrian , Edwards Lisa
Published: May 2014

Summer is here and as usual the time has arrived to book the annual family holiday away from it all.
Multisensory environments and older people with dementia
Authors: Wareing Lesley Ann , Coleman Peter G , Baker Roger
Published: May 2014

Lesley Ann Wareing, Peter G Coleman and Roger Baker report on a study into the use of multisensory environments with four men in the later stages of dementia. The benefits that resulted following treatment were reduction in apathy and socially disturbed behaviour with increased interest in the environment.
Principles of wound management
Authors: Moody Marion
Published: May 2014

In the fourth article of the tissue viability series, Marion Moody describes the different types of dressing available for different wounds and the importance of a holistic approach to treatment.
Bereavement: an experience to be lived, not a problem to be solved
Authors: Joy Jane
Published: May 2014

Jane Joy offers a personal account of the grieving process and how this has changed her perceptions of bereaved patients, and makes a plea for nurses to be less rigid in their attitudes to bereavement.
An Inspector Calls
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: May 2014

Adrian Ashurst identifies some of the areas covered during an announced inspection in the residential home.
Health & Safety
Authors: Jones Phil
Published: May 2014

Phil Jones examines the issue of violence in nursing homes and outlines some key preventative steps that can be taken.
Communication and swallowing training for care home staff
Authors: Scott Daniel
Published: May 2014

Daniel Scott describes an innovative programme in Glasgow which provides training for staff in residential and care homes allowing them to maximise the communication skills of older residents suffering from a variety of disorders.
The senior care assistant's role
Authors: Hodge Lynne
Published: May 2014

Lynne Hodge reflects on the events in her life which lead her to become a care assistant, and outlines her current day to day duties and responsibilities as a senior care assistant.
Positive customer care
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: May 2014

In the first article of a new series, Adrian Ashurst discusses the importance of quality customer care practiced in supermarkets and suggests that staff working in nursing and residential care may adopt a similar approach in the future.
Home owners' introduction to hotel services
Authors: Innes-Farquhar Alison
Published: May 2014

In the first of a new series, Alison Innes-Farquhar introduces the different hotel services which are needed to run a home successfully, and details some important considerations.
How to… Manage your time more effectively
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: May 2014

In this article, Adrian Ashurst provides new home managers with a step-by-step guide to improve the use of their time in an ever-changing and demanding care environment.
The containment and promotion of continence
Authors: Moody Marion
Published: May 2014

Marion Moody highlights the importance of an evidence-based approach for effective continence promotion and management, and considers how holistic assessment provides a baseline for care planning.
Pressure ulcers as indicators of neglect
Authors: Walsh Kieran , Bennett Gerry
Published: May 2014

Kieran Walsh and Gerry Bennett look at pressure ulcers as potential indicators of neglect or medical negligence, and consider how they might be prevented.
Public speaking and care home training sessions
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: May 2014

Adrian Ashurst gives some pointers on succesful public speaking in the context of training sessions. This is a skill which is increasingly being required of senior care home staff but one with which they may not feel immediately at ease.
Reflexology: a guide to its technique and current use
Authors: Hall Nicola M
Published: May 2014

Nicola M Hall discusses the techniques used for reflexology, the process of massaging the reflex areas in the feet and hands, and looks at its role as both a preventative and curative treatment.
Management of urinary catheters in care homes
Authors: Pomfret Ian
Published: May 2014

This article looks at the different methods of urinary catheterization. Clinical aspects of catheter care are discussed, together with practical suggestions for catheter selection, management and care.
Taking pride in care
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: May 2014

Adrian Ashurst suggests that if staff take pride in their delivery of care then the reputation of the home may be enhanced and the quality of the residents' lives enriched.
Management of venous leg ulcers by compression therapy
Authors: Finnie Alison
Published: May 2014

Venous disease is a component of approximately 70% of leg ulcers. Venous leg ulcers can be treated with compression therapy using different bandaging techniques, as discussed in this article by Alison Finnie.
Blowing the whistle
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: May 2014

Adrian Ashurst discusses the importance of recognizing a whistle-blowing policy within a care setting. However, this should only be used when all other complaint procedures have failed.
Issues in NVQ training: new areas of contention
Authors: Barham Bob
Published: May 2014

With so many different interested parties involved in NVQ provision and assessment, things are constantly changing. Bob Barham discusses some current issues and how they affect trainers and trainees.
Statutory trade union recognition: an overview
Authors: Richardson Barbara
Published: May 2014

Barbara Richardson discusses the regulations relating to trade unions and outlines some important points for employers and employees to be aware of.
The TOPSS England foundation standards 2001–2002
Authors: Barham Bob
Published: May 2014

Bob Barham outlines some of the foundation standards expected to apply to all staff in the care and nursing sectors in the future.
Modern wound management: theory and product selection
Authors: Gray David , Cooper Pam , Stringfellow Sandra
Published: May 2014

This article reviews some of the literature relating to moist wound healing and discusses the characteristics of modern wound management products. A selection of commonly used products is reviewed.
Derecognition of statutorily recognized trade unions
Authors: Richardson Barbara
Published: May 2014

Barbara Richardson discusses a number of important issues relating to the derecognition of recognized trade unions.
The purpose and problems of record keeping
Authors: Culley Fiona
Published: May 2014

Fiona Culley discusses the importance of good record keeping in clinical practice and focuses on different kinds of documentation in relation to the care of patients with compromised tissue viability.
Every picture tells a story
Authors: Mangan Paul
Published: May 2014

We are often told that the sheer pace of change in the health and social care sectors is unremitting. A number of years ago, working in nursing and residential care was perhaps not glamorous, but neither was it particularly demanding. Times have changed. Gone are the days when all that was expected of residential and social care staff was a bit of housekeeping, a strong back and a good nature to make sure that residents were OK.
The Mental Health Act 1983 for England and Wales
Authors: Montgomery Mark
Published: May 2014

The Mental Health Act 1983 is an important piece of legislation, which is currently being reviewed. This article gives an overview of the sections of the act in its present form which relate to residents of nursing and residential care homes.
Falls in elderly people
Authors: Radhamanohar Macherla
Published: May 2014

Macherla Radhamanohar describes the risk factors for falls in older people and suggests preventive measures to reduce the risk of falling.
Eye conditions affecting the elderly
Authors: Derrington David
Published: May 2014

David Derrington, an optometrist, looks at three of the most common conditions encountered by optometrists when examining older patients and outlines the present treatments and management available.
The prostate gland: disorders and treatments
Authors: DeVille-Almond Jane
Published: May 2014

Despite the number of men who suffer from prostate problems, there is a lack of knowledge about this gland. Jane DeVille-Almond gives the important facts.
Activity programmes for older people in care
Authors: Sobczak Julie
Published: May 2014

In the second of two articles on exercise, Julie Sobczak outlines several activities which are ideal for those in care homes, and explains how to conduct them safely.
How well can care managers serve the needs of older people?
Authors: Postle Karen
Published: May 2014

Increased bureaucracy and decreased time leaves little opportunity for social-care managers to form effective relationships with older people. This has implications for the quality of service given to clients.
Wound infection within nursing and residential care homes
Authors: Timmons John
Published: May 2014

John Timmons explains the reasons why wound infection can occur and advises on how to identify, prevent and treat this complication.
Management of epilepsy among young adults and the elderly
Authors: McIntyre J , Yeomans H J
Published: May 2014

H J Yeomans and J McIntyre discuss the management of epilepsy and the importance of awareness within residential and nursing home settings.
A review of the law of drug administration
Authors: Griffith Richard
Published: May 2014

Medicines can be dangerous when incorrectly used or administered. This article reviews the consequences of failing to administer medicines to the standard required by the law.
Malnutrition – an overview
Authors: Wighton Jane
Published: May 2014

Jane Wighton discusses the issue of malnutrition in hospital and the care home setting and suggests ways of dealing with the problem.
Care homes regulations and the national minimum standards: 2
Authors: Cooper Jeremy
Published: May 2014

Professor Jeremy Cooper continues his review of the national minimum standards for care homes and their related regulations.
The role of Polaroid cameras in wound documentation
Authors: Gray David
Published: May 2014

David Gray discusses the issue of photographic documentation in wound care and examines the performance of the Polaroid Macro 5 SLR Close-Up Camera.
Managing heart failure in nursing and residential care
Authors: Lane Gary
Published: May 2014

In this article, Gary Lane discusses a number of recent initiatives that are promising to improve the management of heart failure within nursing and residential care homes.
Cardiac rehabilitation for older people
Authors: Thow Morag Kennedy
Published: May 2014

Many older people can benefit from cardiac rehabilitation. This article provides an overview of the principles underpinning cardiac rehabilitation and modes of delivery appropriate for this group.
Treating the trauma: wound care options for acute wounds
Authors: Ballard Kate
Published: May 2014

Minor trauma wounds can cause major anxiety and pain for patients. Appropriate holistic assessment and dressing choice are paramount to successful treatment outcomes, writes Kate Ballard.
Indwelling urethral catheters: guidelines for good practice
Authors: Hamill Maureen
Published: May 2014

Urethral catheterization should always be seen as a last resort in long-term bladder management. When the decision is taken to catheterize a number of factors should be considered, including catheter length, size, material, collecting systems and, most importantly, the individual patient's needs.
Fair reasons for dismissal: 1
Authors: Richardson Barbara
Published: May 2014

Barbara Richardson discusses reasons for dismissing an employee which will be determined to be potentially fair by an employment tribunal.
The Human Rights Act 1998 and care homes
Authors: Cooper Jeremy
Published: May 2014

Professor Jeremy Cooper discusses the ways in which the Human Rights Act might impact on care home practices.
A health promotion strategy to introduce exercise opportunities
Authors: Kelly Muriel
Published: May 2014

Muriel Kelly discusses the issues which care home staff should consider when introducing an exercise programme for residents.
Developing your negotiation skills
Authors: Makinson Geoff
Published: May 2014

Geoff Makinson outlines ways in which people can try to improve their negotiating skills to help to achieve a successful outcome from discussions.
Modern wound management: review of common products
Authors: Flett A , Russell F , Stringfellow S , Cooper PJ , Gray DG , Lawton S
Published: May 2014

A Flett and colleagues highlight the need for a practical knowledge of wound management products and review commonly used dressing products available within the UK.
Investigating issues surrounding vicarious liability
Authors: Richardson Barbara
Published: May 2014

Barbara Richardson discusses difficult situations in which an employer can find themselves liable for the actions of their employees.
Why exercise is important for older people in care
Authors: Sobczak Julie
Published: May 2014

In the first of two articles, Julie Sobczak explains why the elderly should be encouraged to exercise. The second article will focus on how to conduct activity programmes.
The regulation of care homes in Wales
Authors: Cooper Jeremy
Published: May 2014

Professor Jeremy Cooper explains the parallel system of new care standards that is operating in Wales.
How to support people during the process of dying
Authors: Newson Pauline
Published: May 2014

Pauline Newson discusses ways in which carers can influence the quality of experience during the process of dying. Consideration is given to the needs of the dying resident, family members and the care team to emphasize the collaborative nature of support.
Maximizing exercise potential and independence
Authors: Sobczak Julie
Published: May 2014

Julie Sobczak explores how NVQ students can develop opportunities for physical activity that transcend clients' age and frailty, and explains how to assist clients with the use of mobility appliances.
Wandering or walking? Understanding individual cases
Authors: Ross Carol
Published: May 2014

Carol Ross unravels the reasons why clients with dementia might wander, explains the importance of specific assessment, and outlines various management strategies.
Raising health awareness and encouraging good practice
Authors: Weaver Dawn
Published: May 2014

Promoting health issues enhances quality of life by helping people to be more knowledgeable, better motivated, and more able to acquire and maintain good health. Dawn Weaver explains how to do it.
Why we should engage in good supervisory practice
Authors: Johnson Nick
Published: May 2014

Nick Johnson looks at the essence of supervision, and what it can do to help social care workers derive the most benefit from their own supervisory relationships.
Why handwashing is fundamental to good practice
Authors: Swales Jill
Published: May 2014

Washing our hands reduces the risk of cross-infection. Jill Swales looks at why we often fail to carry out this simple procedure and how we can improve our practice.
The practice and philosophy of palliative care in dementia
Authors: Hughes Julian C , Hedley Kathleen , Harris Debra
Published: May 2014

In the first of a new series, the authors discuss the principles of palliative care and show how they are relevant to the care of people with severe dementia.
Back to school for health workers
Authors: Sims Beccy
Published: May 2014

Skills for Health, a newly licensed skills council for the health-care sector, could ensure a brighter future for employers, workers and older patients alike, says Beccy Sims.
A scientific approach to assessing service resources
Authors: Kotiadis Kathy
Published: May 2014

Kathy Kotiadis explores the evaluation of intermediate care resources using simulation modelling and explains what the benefits of such an approach are for a service's employees.
Conservatives make plans for care
Authors: Allen Beccy Sims
Published: May 2014

Beccy Sims reports on new proposals designed to revolutionize the way in which care provision is funded.
Compliance or conformance: The benchmark of a quality service?
Authors: Hamilton Nancy
Published: May 2014

Nancy Hamilton asks whether mere compliance with the National Minimum Standards is a true indicator of the quality of a service.
Managing the physical symptoms of dying: part 1
Authors: Regnard Claud , Huntley Margaret E.
Published: May 2014

Distress and pain needs to be assessed and treated systematically. The authors discuss some of the commoner symptoms encountered in palliative care.
Pain assessment in older people: problems and solutions
Authors: Kane Fiona MA , Brodie Eric E , Niven Catherine A , Johannesen Rikke S , Beech Chris
Published: May 2014

The presence of pain greatly diminishes quality of life. This article, the first of two, outlines some of the problems and suggests solutions for assessment.
Managing the physical symptoms of dying: part 2
Authors: Regnard Claud , Huntley Margaret E.
Published: May 2014

In the fourth article in this series on dementia, Claud Regnard and Margaret E Huntley continue to explore common symptoms encountered in palliative care.
Managing performance through effective appraisal
Authors: Webb Douglas , Owen Judy
Published: May 2014

Individual appraisal is used to align performance with the objectives of the organization. The authors consider the basic processes that contribute to a productive meeting.
Strategic planning: fortune favours the prepared mind
Authors: Webb Douglas
Published: May 2014

Contrary to popular opinion, strategic planning need not be a difficult and complex process. Douglas Webb considers ways in which it can be carried out simply and effectively.
Ten components of good care practice
Authors: Johnson Nick
Published: May 2014

The components of care emphasize the need to work for continuous improvement in pursuit of excellence. Nick Johnson outlines what these are.
A guide to providing effective intermediate care
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Care homes are now working with NHS services to provide intermediate care. This article explains how intermediate care differs from long-term care and what skills are required to provide effective care.
Let's support the plans to modernize
Authors: Clough Richard
Published: May 2014

Since its formation, the Care Standards Commission has not faced an easy task. In its latest consultation document, Inspecting For Better Lives, the Commission is clear that it needs to modernize completely the way it works.
Making life easier: Improving access in care homes
Authors: Swann Julie
Published: May 2014

Julie Swann continues the theme of access issues and discusses how care homes can improve residents’ lives and maintain levels of independence by adopting a positive approach to the subject.
The spiritual care of people with severe dementia
Authors: Dinning Leslie
Published: May 2014

Leslie Dinning presents a personal view of spiritual care, which has evolved during his 9 years as a chaplain involved with the sufferers of severe dementia, their families and the staff who care for them.
Safe moving and handling of individuals
Authors: Blood Rachel
Published: May 2014

Rachel Blood explains how to prepare individuals, equipment and environments for the procedure and promote independence as much as possible.
Patients should be screened for MRSA
Authors: Poddar Sam
Published: May 2014

Sir, Recent years have seen care homes move from a situation where some were unable to admit people with the hospital superbug MRSA (Methycillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) to a position now where homes can care for and cure infected residents without risk of spreading the disease to other residents.
Four steps to safety: Promoting falls prevention
Authors: Stanley G , Donnelly B , Witchard S , Morris C , Hayes N
Published: May 2014

G Stanley et al describe an evidence-based framework designed to encourage a proactive approach to falls and injury prevention in care homes.
Understanding and reducing risk of stroke: A guide
Authors: Swann Julie
Published: May 2014

Julie swann explains the background to this disease and advises carers on what they can do to help prevent residents from having a stroke, which includes monitoring diet and weight.
The new care standards: What will they mean?
Authors: Weaver Dawn
Published: May 2014

With the existing S/NVQ in Care shortly to be replaced by the S/NVQ in Health and Social Care, Dawn Weaver looks at what changes we can expect with regard to its structure and aims.
Part six: Maintaining links and relationships
Authors: Johnson Nick
Published: May 2014

Creating a Home from Home asserts that the continued involvement with family, friends and other social networks exemplifies centres of best practice. Nick Johnson explains.
POVA runs into problems
Authors: Sims Beccy
Published: May 2014

Excessive delays in completing checks are proving a major headache for the care industry, says Beccy Sims.
What residents and relatives tell us they want
Authors: Bright Les
Published: May 2014

Les Bright argues that there is substantial evidence of what residents and relatives want and that the critical task is to respond effectively to these sometimes competing pressures.
Struggling to meet the minimum wage
Authors: Green Martin
Published: May 2014

The government's recent announcement concerning the rise in the national minimum wage will inevitably have a detrimental impact on the independent sector unless the rises can be properly funded. Providers in the independent care sector would like to be in a position to pay their staff higher wages and to implement more structured career paths. The English Community Care Association (ECCA) is supportive of the moral sentiment behind setting a national minimum wage and equally recognizes that the maintenance of high quality care is largely dependent on a well trained and motivated workforce.
The role of the internal verifier
Authors: Weaver Dawn
Published: May 2014

This symposium is designed to guide the Registered Manager Award candidate. This month, Dawn Weaver explores unit I: Conducting internal quality assurance of the assessment process.
Causes and consequences of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Although the incidence of Parkinson's disease is rising, it is difficult to diagnose and treat. In the first of a six-part series, Linda Nazarko explores its causes, incidence and consequences.
A date for the diary
Authors: Dave Pamela
Published: May 2014

Pamela Dave reports on The Care Show due to be held at the Bournemouth International Centre on the 5–6 April 2005.
Don't let training be a waste of time
Authors: Heathcote Julie
Published: May 2014

We all like to think that we are achieving goals at work, but recently, after having just delivered reminiscence-based training courses to carers, I was reminded again by the question: just how far are carers able to implement what they have learnt on training courses in their workplace? How easy is this process, and what are the obstacles to the implementation of new ideas?
When it's hard to dress: Managing cognitive problems
Authors: Swann Julie
Published: May 2014

In this second article on dressing, Julie Swann focuses on helping residents who are cognitively impaired, offering useful tips for care assistants.
Addressing residents' physical comfort needs
Authors: Weaver Dawn
Published: May 2014

Dawn Weaver explores this optional unit by discussing methods to relieve pain and discomfort and to provide the right conditions to promote rest and wellbeing.
Making the most of past experiences and achievements
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

The use of evidence from past experience and achievement is an increasingly valuable and important assessment method in NVQs. Tom Sweeney explains.
Managing continuous quality improvement
Authors: Robbins Fiona
Published: May 2014

This optional unit in the RMA focuses on the development of systems to evaluate organizational performance and promote continuous quality improvements in products, services and processes.
Providing convenient and accessible toilet facilities
Authors: Swann Julie
Published: May 2014

Julie Swann explores some of the practical problems associated with going to the toilet for older and disabled people, and suggests ways of minimizing the difficulties.
Science shows the way
Authors: Sims Beccy
Published: May 2014

The UK must mobilize its scientific resources to improve life for the elderly before it is too late. Beccy Sims reports on the latest findings.
Addressing residents' social, emotional and identity needs
Authors: Weaver Dawn
Published: May 2014

Using Abraham Maslow's theory of a hierarchy of needs, Dawn Weaver explains the key principles of holistic care.
The importance of sleep for older people
Authors: Weaver Dawn
Published: May 2014

To introduce this series, Dawn Weaver explains how sleep patterns change as we grow older. She details the factors that affect sleep quality and suggests how we can improve this.
Responding to the Office of Fair Trading report
Authors: Howard Helen
Published: May 2014

The Office of Fair Trading recently published a study looking at how well the care home market serves older people. Helen Howard explores ways care homes can respond positively to the report's findings.
Managing mental health
Authors: Sims Beccy
Published: May 2014

Beccy sims reports on a government initiative that is designed to improve matters for elderly people with dementia and associated problems.
Urinary catheter care
Authors: Pomfret Ian
Published: May 2014

In a previous Nursing & Residential Care (NRC) article (Pomfret and Nazarko, 2006) the costs and benefits of using urinary catheterization in nursing and residential homes were considered.
A Christmas wish
Authors: Fernandes Tanya
Published: May 2014

With Christmas upon us and the festivities under way, for many it is a time for celebration. For others it is a time for quiet reflection as we are all visited by our personal ghosts of Christmas past, present and the future. Perhaps the government has received its ghosts a little earlier than planned as they introduce proposals to end the mistreatment of older people and set in motion the wheels to drive up standards of care.
Benefits of homeopathy for older people
Authors: Marshall Rowena
Published: May 2014

In response to recent scepticism in the press about the effectiveness of homeopathy, Rowena Marshall defends it as a widely respected and effective form of treatment.
Helping older people to care for their feet
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Linda Nazarko explains how you can care for an older person's feet and prevent problems whenever possible, and act when problems do occur.
Managing systems for the administration of medication
Authors: Robbins Fiona
Published: May 2014

The management and monitoring of systems for the administration of medicine is part of mandatory unit RM1. In the last of this series, Fiona Robbins tells you what you need to know.
How to manage challenging behaviour
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Linda Nazarko explains why certain behaviour associated with dementia occurs, and advises how you can care for the older person so that such behaviour is minimized.
Legal and ethical issues surrounding dementia
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Linda Nazarko helps you to understand how dementia affects the ability to make choices, and current and planned legal changes in relation to consent.
Making gardening activities easier to manage
Authors: Swann Julie
Published: May 2014

As we age, heavy domestic tasks, including strenuous gardening jobs, can become onerous and often impossible. For many people who enter a care home, there is a sense of relief as home maintenance is no longer their responsibility. There can be, however, a corresponding sense of loss at no longer having the pleasure of tending plants and seeing growth and new life emerge. This need not be the case.
Patient and public involvement in health
Authors: Howard Helen
Published: May 2014

In the care home sector, we have been aware for some time that involving people in making decisions about their lives is very beneficial. Recent policy documents from the Department of Health (DH) tell us that the involvement of patients, carers and the public in decision making about health care is at the heart of the modernization of the NHS. This article explains how this policy decision is being implemented in England and its significance to you and your residents.
We should be more aware of dementia
Authors: Heathcote Julie
Published: May 2014

When recently contributing to a reminiscence training day for carers of older people, I was approached twice with the same question: ‘What is the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's disease?’. This question came from carers working with people with dementia every day, and yet there seemed to be no awareness of the fact that dementia is an umbrella term covering several conditions, of which Alzheimer's disease is just one. Another question I am frequently asked is, ‘Will people with dementia get better?’.
The drive for dignity
Authors: Sims Beccy
Published: May 2014

Health services have been criticized recently for treating older people with a lack of dignity and respect. Beccy sims reports on new government measures designed to change this.
Developing your knowledge and practice
Authors: Newson Pauline
Published: May 2014

Pauline Newson aims to describe the concept of continuing development and makes links with lifelong learning. Strategies to facilitate personal and professional development will be explained and applied to practice.
Understanding lymphoedema in older people
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Lymphoedema is three times more common in older people than in younger people. Many people who have lymphoedema are not diagnosed and only 64% of people with this distressing condition receive treatment (Moffatt et al, 2003).
Providing quality care for residents with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Raymond Rachel
Published: May 2014

It is estimated that Parkinson's disease (Pd) affects 5–10% of nursing home residents (Mitchell et al, 1996). While the majority of people with Pd will continue to live at home for many years, increasing disability and dependency in the palliative stage, when the care needs exceed the ability of their family or community to cope, frequently lead to admissions into care.
Turning basic skin care into pampering sessions
Authors: Swann Julie
Published: May 2014

By altering techniques of applying skin-care products, care staff can transform basic care tasks into pampering time for residents. Julie Swann explains.
A day in the life of a… Protection of vulnerable adult (POVA) coordinator
Authors: Giordano Andrea
Published: May 2014

I am hearing the question ‘what is POVA?’ less and less. And because more people know what POVA is, my ‘typical day’ is getting busier!
The journey into care
Authors: Swann Juliey
Published: May 2014

This article explores factors that can aid the smooth transition into a residential care environment.
Preventing further strokes: Identifying risk factors
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Individuals are at high risk of further stroke if risk factors are not identified and where possible treated. This article looks at how to reduce the risk of further stroke.
Raising the standards in the care home sector
Authors: Wade Geoff
Published: May 2014

The Government has pledged £67 million to help improve the standard of care homes across England. According to Health Minister Ivan Lewis, this money will enable local authorities to improve the physical environment of their care homes and allow them to be more responsive to the needs of the elderly.
Reflecting on practice and professional development
Authors: Weaver Dawn
Published: May 2014

Dawn Weaver discusses the importance of reflective practice, and the impact this can have on care delivery and professional development.
Tackling dignity for the elderly
Authors: Sims Beccy
Published: May 2014

Beccy Sims reports on the latest efforts to ensure that older people in hospital receive the highest standards of care.
Stoma and continence services to the door
Authors: McCrossan Isobel
Published: May 2014

Isobel McCrossan discusses the benefits of a piloted home delivery service which offers stoma and continence products to the door.
‘You shall have a fishy on a little dishy’
Authors: Jennings Sue
Published: May 2014

Most of us are probably surprised that there is a shortage of fish in the world! Oceans are over fished and trawlers are being asked to limit their catch. Yet we used to be a nation of sea-farers and fisherfolk! The title above is one of the most popular songs from the fishing tradition.
Does your building's construction comply?
Authors: Temple Sarah
Published: May 2014

The construction or extension of a care home should comply to the Care Standards Act 2000. Sarah Temple offers advice on what to look for when extending or buying new premeses.
Looking towards the future
Authors: Swann Julie
Published: May 2014

The article discusses new government polices and the role of telecare technology within the care setting.
Visual impairment in stroke sufferers
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Stroke can compound age-related visual problems, increase the risk of falls and impair quality of life. This article discusses how ageing and stroke can affect vision.
Care outcomes
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Care home inspections can vary according to who is inspecting and what the inspector focuses on. This is set to change with the introduction of new standards that focus on outcomes. Linda Nazarko explains the process.
Care planning for Parkinson's disease
Authors: Heisters Daiga
Published: May 2014

Care planning is essential when attempting to provide high levels of individualized care. Daiga Heisters looks at how the care of a resident with Parkinson's disease can be structured efficiently and effectively.
Star ratings
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

At present inspection reports are of limited use to older people and their families when they wish to chose a care home. Now CSCI propose to use a star rating system to make choosing homes easier. The system will also determine how often homes are inspected.
Hungry for change
Authors: Sims Beccy
Published: May 2014

Beccy Sims reports on government plans to ensure that elderly patients are given help and encouragement to eat a healthy, balanced diet.
Planning and reviewing care provision
Authors: Weaver Dawn
Published: May 2014

Dawn Weaver explores this optional unit by discussing planning objectives, monitoring, and evaluation of service delivery.
Spotlight on Northern Ireland
Authors: Sims Beccy
Published: May 2014

Beccy Sims reports on current efforts to secure effective legislation on adult protection, which have begun in Northern Ireland.
Moving and handling: Part one
Authors: Rinds Gitte
Published: May 2014

More than a million people suffered from muscular skeletal disorders caused or made worse by work in 2004/05. However, with the right risk management carers can avoid injury while residents enjoy an improved quality of life.
Assessments: The contribution of occupatinal therapy
Authors: Hibberd Jane M , Hong Chia Swee
Published: May 2014

This article focuses on the contribution of occupational therapy in the assessment of older people in the care home setting.
Taking the stress out of preparing to study
Authors: Newson Pauline
Published: May 2014

Starting a course of study can be daunting, but careful preparation can reduce feelings of stress. Pauline Newson reviews knowledge and skills that can enhance the experience of studying.
Challenging behaviour: Whose problem is it?
Authors: Leadbetter David
Published: May 2014

In the first of two articles on the common problem of challenging behaviour, David Leadbetter discusses the possible contributing factors and the potential of safe systems of work.
Administering medication to people with dementia
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Dementia related swallowing problems can result in difficulties in medication administration. Linda Nazarko explains how a problem solving approach can prevent nurses using covert medication.
Mechanics of vision and common visual impairments
Authors: Swann Julie
Published: May 2014

Sight problems are prevalent in people aged 65 years and over. Julie Swann introduces the first of three articles focusing on sight, discussing some common visual problems and their prevalence in the older population.
Bedrails, risk and safety
Authors: Hughes Rhidian
Published: May 2014

Preventing falls is a key issue in care of the elderly. In any discussions or debates about good practice in relation to falls prevention it is important to consider older people who fall from bed, and the use of bedrail to help prevent this. There are a number of risk factors associated with falls, including hypotension, polypharmacy, muscle weakness, confusion and delirium. A fall from bed can cause physical injury, pain and nerve trauma, as well as psychosocial effects including fear of falling again, loss of confidence and increased anxiety (Weaver, 2008). Staff can be affected too: feelings of anxiety or guilt can be raised when older people fall out of bed and are hurt in some way.
Test your manual handling knowledge: answers
Authors: Chadwick Mandy
Published: May 2014

Maintaining manual handling knowledge is fundamental to resident and staff safety. The answers to last month's questions are presented by Mandy Chadwick.
Pressure care, part one: preventing pressure ulcers
Authors: Hampton Sylvie
Published: May 2014

Believing that pressure damage is an inevitable part of ageing is a dangerous myth. Sylvie Hampton presents the first of three articles, and explains that the prevention of pressure ulcers is a quality outcome of care.
Caring for the older ostomate
Authors: Williams Julia
Published: May 2014

Problems with stoma care are increased with age, however, the elderly ostomate can lead a full and active life with a stoma. In the first of two articles on stoma care, Julia Williams discusses the nurses role in informing and educating clients in stoma care.
Nutrition in care homes: going back to basics
Authors: Smith Alison
Published: May 2014

In the first of two articles focusing on nutrition in care homes, Alison Smith discusses the ‘back-to-basics’ approach that staff can take to ensure that malnutrition is reduced as far as practicable.
It is Spring time and things are a'growing!
Authors: Jennings Sue
Published: May 2014

Various traditions have different starting dates for Spring: the Celts said it was 1st February and celebrated Brigid or Bridie. We seem unaware of Springtime until the days get longer, the bulbs begin to shoot and it seems brighter and more colourful. There are all sorts of sayings about March, perhaps one of the most memorable is that ‘March comes in like a lion and out like a lamb’—or the other way round! March gives us the March Hare and, of course, the name originates in the noisy god of war, Mars.
Identifying and managing osteoarthritis in older adults
Authors: Lucas Brian
Published: May 2014

Brian Lucas outlines the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and the treatments that can be used to help older people live with the condition.
Infection control: Cellulitis
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Older people are especially at risk of developing cellulitis. Prompt diagnosis and effective treatment reduce the risks of serious complications and long-term health care problems. Linda Nazarko discusses.
The older gay, lesbian and bisexual population
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: May 2014

Every person is deserving of equal respect regardless of their sexual orientation. Ian Peate discusses the importance of health care workers understanding the individual needs of gay, lesbian and bisexual older people in care.
Dressing remedies in care homes
Authors: Clarkson Ayesha
Published: May 2014

The dressing remedies protocol was developed to help overcome problems of delays in accessing dressings in care homes. Ayesha Clarkson describes the concept and its potential benefits for the wellbeing of residents.
Saving the diabetic foot in long-term care settings
Authors: Bentley Jenny , Foster Ali
Published: May 2014

Diabetic foot complications can have serious consequences for patients. Jenny Bentley and Ali Foster discuss prevention and risk management of diabetic foot problems, which require the combined efforts of a multidisciplinary team
Cardiac failure: early diagnosis and treatment options
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

People who have heart failure benefit from prompt diagnosis and evidence-based care, which improves quality of life, reduces mortality and side effects of treatments. In the second article of the series, Linda Nazarko explains diagnosis and treatment
Minimizing risk: safe object handling
Authors: Chadwick Mandy , Titcomb Paul
Published: May 2014

Staff must be adequately equipped to protect themselves and others from injury when undertaking object handling tasks. Many Chadwick and Paul Titcomb describe how house keeping staff can minimize risk in the care home enviornment.
Using surveillance and tracking technology in care homes
Authors: Hughes Rhidian
Published: May 2014

Electronic devices used in long-distance care can enable people to lead more active and independent lives. It is important, however, that practical, ethical and care planning issues are addressed fully, Dr Rhidian Hughes discusses.
Safety in the care home: first aid at work
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: May 2014

First aid can save lives and prevent minor injuries becoming major. Ian Peate outlines the general prinicples of first aid in the work place and the importance of ensuring that provisions are met.
Meeting the sexuality needs of older adults in care settings
Authors: Béphage Gaetan
Published: May 2014

The expression of sexuality remains an important factor for many older people living in care. Gaetan Bephage discusses the role that staff can play in ensuring residents' sexuality needs are understood and met.
‘And heard a Mermaid on a Dolphin's back’ (William Shakespeare)
Authors: Jennings Sue
Published: May 2014

If we think about dolphins, we imagine beautiful sea-creatures who follow ships, leap in the air and enjoy entertaining humans! The important thing about dolphins is that they are sociable and have been known to rescue a human in trouble; for example if someone falls overboard, a dolphin may nudge them to safety. Sometimes I think dolphins are made to look silly by performing circus tricks in captivity. They are much more loveable and dignified in the wild ocean!
News Analysis
Authors: Sims Beccy
Published: May 2014

Beccy Sims reports on the inititative that will allow members of the public to nominate those who have helped to improve dignity for elderly patients.
One for the boys—and maybe the girls too!
Authors: Jennings Sue
Published: May 2014

A Happy New Year to everyone and I hope the festive season was fun and full of good things; food, gifts, singing and lovely decorations. We talked about light and dark last month, but it is still very relevant during all the celebrations. We have lots of lights in our decorations, stars light up the sky when it is frosty and clear, and winter sunshine can be blindingly bright. But read on, this month we will talk about football!
Weekly payments criticised
Authors: Sims Beccy
Published: May 2014

Beccy Sims explores the debate surrounding the low levels of allowance given to care home residents.
Dignity campaign is on the up
Authors: Sims Beccy
Published: May 2014

Beccy Sims reports on the good work that is being done as part of a key government campaign.
Understanding nurse call systems
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

In this article Linda Nazarko provides a brief overview of the various types of nurse call alarms that can be used in care homes. Specialist alarms may be needed for those with dementia.
A survey of octenidine-based wound care products
Authors: Wright David J
Published: May 2014

This article surveys care home nurses' attitudes to the use of new octenidine-based wound care irrigation fluid and hydrogel. The survey showed a positive response to both products.
A practical guide to managing the malnourished patient
Authors: Dunne Annette
Published: May 2014

In this article Annette Dunne discusses a number of useful ways that malnutrition can be tackled by using a stepwise approach, including food fortification and nutritional supplements.
Life-skill stations: tools for reminiscence and activity
Authors: Swann Julie
Published: May 2014

Engaging in life-skill tasks can improve cognitive abilities, maintain mobility and help residents to feel familiar in their surroundings. Julie Swann discusses lifeskill stations as a method of reminiscence.
Parkinson's and a new dementia strategy
Authors: Moonan Clare
Published: May 2014

This month, the National Dementia Strategy, the much anticipated 5-year plan for improving health and social care services in England for everyone with dementia and their carers, was finally launched by the Department of Health. The Parkinson's Disease Society (PDS) was involved in the initial consultation, trying to ensure that the specific needs of people living with Parkinson's Disease Dementia (PDD) were not overlooked. At the PDS the response to the Strategy has been generally positive. We are pleased that the Government is finally putting the money and resources in to make dementia a national priority. One of the recommendations specifically focuses on care homes and identified the need for a lead within each home who will work to improve the quality of dementia care. This recommendation also identifies the importance of linking the care pathway between the care home and mental health services, which if achieved should improve the outcomes for people with PDD and other forms of dementia.
News Analysis
Authors: Sims Beccy
Published: May 2014

Rights and responsibilities for patients and staff are made clear in the launch of the first ever NHS constitution. Beccy Sims reports.
Dementia care: the use and abuse of anti-psychotic drugs
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2014

Using anti-psychotic drugs to treat challenging behaviour can worsen dementia symptoms, decrease quality of life and double the risk of death. What are the alternatives and when should these drugs be used?
Patient-reported outcome measures in rheumatology
Authors: Palmer Deborah , Miedany Y. El
Published: May 2014

What do patients consider the most important effects of inflammatory arthritis? Deborah Palmer and Yasser El Miedany discuss patient reported outcome measures in standard rheumatology practice and how it is all about the patients.
Valuing People Now: care services for learning disabilities
Authors: McMillan Ian A
Published: May 2014

How will a new strategy for people with learning disabilities change the way that residential care services are delivered? Ian A McMillan reports on the launch of Valuing People Now.
Telling the story of creative writing: how did it start?
Authors: Swann Julie
Published: May 2014

Creative writing and story telling are presented in many forms and are used to engage and entertain people. Julie Swann explores the origins of creative writing before looking at its use in the care of older people.
The role of the care worker in continence assessment
Authors: Keegan Wendy
Published: May 2014

Improved training and knowledge on the causes of incontinence can mean that care assistants are well placed to contribute to continence assessment. Wendy Keegan discusses the invaluable role of the care assistant.
Employment law: sorting the myths from reality
Authors: West Anna , Rice Adam
Published: May 2014

Knowing the difference between myth and reality in employment law can save employers from claims and fines. Anna West and Adam Rice set us straight on a few common beliefs.