bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving influenza vaccine uptake in frontline staff
Authors: Aziz Ann-Marie
Published: May 2014

Influenza is a highly contagious upper respiratory tract disease causing significant morbidity and mortality among high-risk groups. Immunization of frontline healthcare workers (HCWs) in the NHS is thought to be beneficial in reducing subclinical infection, staff sickness absences and protects patients. Each year Public Health England launches the Seasonal Flu Campaign to help reduce influenza transmission by reinforcing the message that it is vital that frontline HCWs get vaccinated. Public Health produces figures on frontline workers who have been vaccinated annually. The 2011/2012 campaign showed uptake figures of the influenza vaccine was averaging 44.6% nationally. The efforts of an NHS trust to increase staff uptake of the annual seasonal flu vaccination programme has been highly commended as it achieved an impressive 68.7% uptake against a target of 70%. This article shows how the trust worked hard to improve uptake on flu vaccinations for HCWs during the 2012/2013 flu season. Recognised as a Top Improver by NHS Employers (2013) for vaccination uptake, the Trust identifies how measures can be adopted to improve vaccination rates and what barriers can prevent total compliance. High rates of HCW vaccination can benefit staff, patients and the communities within which they work and live.
Treat-to-target: a tailored treatment approach to rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Palmer Deborah , El Miedany Yasser
Published: May 2014

In contrast to articles and books written about rheumatoid arthritis (RA) two or more decades ago that largely focused on ‘coping’ with the disease, there have been significant developments in the treatment of RA over the past 10 years. Patients can now be diagnosed and treated and expect to live functional lives, with less likelihood of experiencing the associated joint damage and disability. An important goal of RA therapy has shifted to initiate treatment early and aggressively, with frequent assessment and a target to achieve remission as quickly as possible. This ‘treat-to-target’ concept has been endorsed to maximise long-term health-related quality of life through control of symptoms, prevention of structural damage, normalisation of function and social participation. This article will look at therapies and strategies for the treatment of RA. It will also discuss a treatment algorithm for rheumatoid arthritis tailored to the individual patient’s disease activity status.
Understanding intellectual disability in healthcare practice
Authors: Hayes Catherine , Batey Glenn
Published: May 2014

This article has been developed for allied health professionals. These practitioners may face significant barriers to providing high-quality healthcare to people with intellectual disabilities, just because they lack awareness of policies and initiatives in health. There are fundamental issues to address within the context of healthcare provision that are of direct relevance to improving services for people with intellectual disabilities with regard to their empowerment and the facilitation of care. Emphasis is placed upon the need for equity in healthcare for all and the need to avoid the tendency of society to homogenise all individual people with intellectual disabilities into one group, for whom empowerment cannot become panacea in reality.
Sound source information to improve cardiothoracic patients’ comfort
Authors: Mackrill Jamie , Cain Rebecca , Jennings Paul , England Michelle
Published: May 2014

Hospital sound has been well documented through acoustic measurement and the classification of its adverse effects on patients and nurses. However, little consideration has been given to how the perception of these unavoidable soundscapes can be improved. For instance, does a better understanding of the variety of sounds improve patients’ feeling? This paper begins to answer this and documents a pilot questionnaire-based study looking at the effects and potential benefits of sound source information (SSI) on patients’ subjective reactions to a ward soundscape. The study was carried out from July to September 2011 with 31 patients in a cardiothoracic ward. Although strong inferences were not made, it was found that this simple intervention created a 21–26% positive change perception (p≤0.05). The paper discusses the results in relation to nursing practice, concluding that SSI could be beneficial in helping patients to feel more comfortable.
Resolving the psychiatric bed crisis: a critical analysis of policy
Authors: Loader Katie
Published: May 2014

The National Service Framework (NSF) for Mental Health in 1999 was central to the modernisation of mental health services under the New Labour government of 1997. It placed an emphasis on universal clinical standards and set out a vision for service developments over the next 10 years. One such proposal was the development of crisis resolution teams, aimed at reducing the psychiatric admissions rate by providing care at home. This article provides a critical analysis of policies relating to the provision of 24-hour access to mental health services, focusing on the specifications for creating crisis resolution teams, as laid out in the NSF for Mental Health and the NHS Plan. First, it looks at the historical context surrounding the policy, examining the content of the NSF and NHS plan and how policy was disseminated and implemented nationally and locally. Then it examines the effects and changes this policy brought about and, specifically, whether it has achieved its aims of reducing the nationwide acute psychiatric inpatient admission rate.
Paediatric community home nursing: a model of acute care
Authors: Ng Sze May , Mariguddi Shyam , Coward Shirley , Middleton Holly
Published: May 2014

Aims and objectives:

The aim of this pilot service development was to determine if the community children's nursing outreach team (CCNOT) service, as a model of care, was effective and efficient in its delivery of reducing unscheduled care and admissions to hospital, and improving patient satisfaction.

Background:

CCNOT was developed to manage acutely ill children at home and to reduce the demand for unscheduled care.

Design:

This is a pilot prospective study within a dual-site integrated care organisation.

Methods:

The CCNOT service was developed with the aim of determining the effectiveness of the CCNOT model of care and service delivery in the following outcomes: 1) reducing length of hospital stay (LOS) 2) reducing A&E admissions 3) reducing non-elective admissions 4) reducing readmissions and 5) improving patient satisfaction. Data were obtained from hospital episode statistics (HES) and patient satisfaction questionnaires.

Results:

The data indicate that, after the implementation of the CCNOT service, A&E attendances fell by 5% per month, non-elective admissions by 15.8% and readmissions by 17.3%. Overall, LOS rose by 2.3%—0.88 days compared with 0.9 days—but the difference was not significant. The results of the patient satisfaction survey show high overall satisfaction with the service.

Conclusion:

A paediatric CCNOT as a model of service delivery in acute paediatric care is effective in reducing hospital admissions. It also increases patient and carer satisfaction with care provision for sick children in the home environment.
Duty of care is underpinned by a range of obligations
Authors: Griffith Richard
Published: May 2014

The courts have long established that nurses are in a duty situation and owe a duty of care to their patients ( Kent v Griffiths [2001] ). Traditionally, the profession set the standard of care and nurses were required to act in accordance with a practice accepted by a responsible body of their peers ( Bolam v Friern HMC [1957] ). The introduction of the Human Rights Act 1998 gave rise to a positive obligation on government to ensure that laws, policies and procedures are in place to protect violations of human rights. Nurses must now inform their practice with relevant statute law, common law and professional standards in order to properly discharge their duty of care. Richard Griffith considers the law that now underpins a nurse's duty of care and uses a recent report from the Health Service Ombudsman for England to illustrate the obligations that underpin the nurse–patient relationship.
Implementing the Safety Thermometer tool in one NHS trust
Authors: Buckley Catherine , Cooney Katrina , Sills Eileen , Sullivan Eamonn
Published: May 2014

To address measurement of patient safety, the NHS in England has introduced the NHS Safety Thermometer using the Commissioning for Quality and Innovation (CQUIN) scheme. The scheme offers a financial reward to all providers of NHS care measuring four common harms using the NHS Safety Thermometer on one day each month, with further incentives to achieve improvement goals in subsequent years of the scheme. This article discusses the background to the scheme and a rationale for the focus on pressure ulcers, falls in care, catheter use and urinary tract infection, and venous thromboembolism. The implementation process for this scheme in a large NHS foundation trust is detailed together with its effect within the authors' organisation on harm-free care for their patients.
Radiotherapy-induced skin reactions: assessment and management
Authors: Glover Deborah , Harmer Victoria
Published: May 2014

Radiotherapy, the use of high-energy rays to either kill cancer cells or treat some benign tumours, is undoubtedly a positive intervention. However, as the primary mode of action in radiotherapy treatment is the killing of cells to prevent replication, other non-cancerous cells may be affected. For example, up to 85% of patients will experience some form of skin reaction, which will range from local erythema to moist desquamation. Such reactions are not only distressing and painful for the patient, if severe enough, they may warrant a halt in treatment. This article outlines the aims and nature of radiotherapy, and then discusses the aetiology of skin reactions, risk factors for reaction, and assessment tools. Management interventions will also be shown, with emphasis on silicone dressings.
Potential benefits of relationship continuity in patient care
Authors: Williams Jenny
Published: May 2014

Continuity of care, in the author's opinion, is synonymous with quality care. The benefits of developing relationship continuity are highlighted as beneficial to patient, department, trust and the NHS. An in-house audit revealed that the care provided in the author's stoma care department was fragmented and how a change in strategy was required to bring about the necessary changes. This paper explores the benefits of patient/relationship continuity and outlines the changes made for over 250 new ostomy patients annually.
Prostate cancer follow-up needs: do patients and professionals agree?
Authors: Vieira Irina , Burke Linda , Marks-Maran Di
Published: May 2014

Background

With recent changes in the economy and the drive for cost-effective health care, current practices in the NHS need to be reviewed and revised. In light of this, the aim of this study is to investigate the perceived benefits of routine follow-up of patients with prostate cancer and to examine perceptions of prostate cancer patients and health professionals about who should follow-up patients and where and when this should take place.

Methods

A service evaluation was carried out on a sample of patients receiving follow-up assessment following radical treatment for prostate cancer and health professionals in a specialist cancer urology unit in an acute NHS trust in south-east England. Data were collected through patient (n=47) and health professional (n=17) questionnaires and through a group discussion with a sample of patients (n=52).

Results

There was agreement between patients and professionals that the main purpose of follow-up consultation was to review the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and assess urinary symptoms. The majority of patients and professionals wanted follow-up in the hospital with face-to-face consultation. There was general agreement that assessments should be carried out every six months. An overwhelming majority of patients (95%) felt that it was important to have easy access to the urology cancer nurses and doctors.

Conclusion

Patients want to maintain the traditional model of hospital based follow-up in specialist urology cancer clinics. However, this approach is not economically sustainable. If this is to change we need to work with our patients to develop a service that meets their needs. For a new approach to follow-up to meet the needs of patients, they need to be confident that they have access to expert advice and support, and are assured of referral back to the urology team if required. Nurses are ideally placed to play a key role in the development of such a service.
Wellbeing in later life: a proposed ecosystematic framework
Authors: Papadopoulos Andrew , Biggs Simon , Tinker Anthea
Published: May 2014

It is proposed that contemporary constructions of wellbeing deployed in late life mental health services, policy and research lack sufficient theoretical and phenomenological foundation. If the term is used both as a basis for informing policy and provision, it is important that the term reflects a valid theoretical framework for defining parameters of human existence. This research sought to investigate whether a concept of wellbeing is evident from an analysis of qualitative data drawn from psychiatric case studies and interviews of non-psychiatric white and African-Caribbean older populations in the West Midlands (n =39). Data were analysed using thematic analysis and a modified version of grounded theory.
Enuresis 1: prevalence, causes, assessment and investigation
Authors: Cox Elizabeth
Published: May 2014

Enuresis (bed-wetting) has a profound effect on the life of the affected child and his or her family. This series of articles will examine the aetiology and management of enuresis, starting with an overview of the causes and assessment of the condition.
Championing children: sharing good practice
Authors: Hughes Beverly
Published: May 2014

Every Child Matters brought radical changes to the way in which services deliver to children, young people and their families. School nurses play a valuable role in these reforms and Championing Children will ensure they receive the right support from other professionals working together within a multi–agency team.
Calling all school nurses wishing to migrate to SCPHN
Authors: Plastow Liz
Published: May 2014

Nurses already specialising in public health nursing may be eligible to enter the Specialist Community Public Health Nursing register via a portfolio route. The NMC has agreed to consider previous learning and experience and those meeting specific criteria may apply.
Reflex anoxic seizures: a care plan for schools
Authors: Cowie Elaine
Published: May 2014

Reflex anoxic seizures occur mainly in young children and can be terrifying for the parent as well as the health professional if they are not experienced in dealing with them. With a care plan to manage seizures in place there is no reason why these children cannot enjoy a normal school life.
A School and Public Health Nurses Association Officer
Authors: White Sharon
Published: May 2014

Sharon White describes her working week as a part-time professional officer for SAPHNA, which involves keeping up-to-date on public health and professional issues in order to deal with member enquiries, travelling around the UK to conferences and a starring role in a public health DVD.
Does food influence a child’s behaviour?
Authors: Benton David
Published: May 2014

It is widely assumed that aspects of diet can adversely affect the behaviour of children, from additives causing behavioural problems to fatty acids increasing intelligence. Can the food we give our children really influence their chances of success?
More financial investment in school nurses is needed
Authors: Sherwin Sarah
Published: May 2014

Dear Editor,

As a group of school nursing and public health nursing lecturers we are increasingly concerned about the current lack of investment in school nursing and health visiting training. The numbers of school nurses and health visitors undertaking Specialist Community Public Health Degrees (which enables them to register on the Nursing and Midwifery Council Register) has drastically reduced over the past year across the country and it appears that this trend is set to continue for the forseeable future.
Why does puberty now begin in children as young as seven?
Authors: Dudeney Jane
Published: May 2014

In the western world there is evidence that children, especially girls, are reaching puberty at younger ages with some starting as young as seven. Jane Dudeney looks at the arguments for and against this early onset of menarche to try and discover if it really exists and if so, what causes it?
The oxford handbook of children's and young people's nursing
Authors: Croghan Emma
Published: May 2014

This book is a useful glossary covering a wide range of topics, most of which would be very useful reference information for a team of school nurses. It is written clearly and concisely – and usefully gives information about further reading.
Young people and sexual health: assessing risk
Authors: Cherry Alison
Published: May 2014

Sexual health is an important matter for young people, especially as there has been a sustained decrease in the age of young people at first sexual intercourse over the last 40 years. It is important to assess the risks that young people may be taking with their sexual health.
The changing epidemiology of tuberculosis and the BCG vaccination programme
Authors: Porter-Jones Gary , Roberts Rowena
Published: May 2014

School nurses were central to the UK schools’ BCG vaccination programme. Its re-structuring in 2005 from a universal to a targeted, risk-based one caused confusion as well as concern that their role would be eroded. This article outlines the changing epidemiology of TB in the UK that led to the shift in BCG policy and clarifies the eligibility criteria for vaccination.
Eating disorders in school-age children
Authors: Colton Anna , Sheffield Alexandra , Elliott Lorna
Published: May 2014

Eating disorders can have serious detrimental effects on a child’s health, and if undetected, could result in hospitalization or even death. School nurses are well placed to spot the signs and intervene, and can offer much needed advice to these children and young people.
Children and Young People: A public health challenge?
Authors: Godson Ros
Published: May 2014

Ros Godson attended the Unite/CPHVA 9th Northern Ireland School Nurse conference last month where school nurses across Northern Ireland enjoyed their annual get together, and discover that the beginning of the school year is a good opportunity for updating
School nurses and consent: Duty of confidence
Authors: Griffith Richard
Published: May 2014

Some children may find it easier to confide in a school nurse than a teacher or parent. However, school nurses may be unsure of the extent of their duty of confidence, which may cause problems. It is important for school nurses to know when it is appropriate to disclose information.
Growing up in school with a chronic condition
Authors: McDonagh Janet E , Hackett Janine
Published: May 2014

School is a very important time for children and adolescents, and it is important for them to attend for both social and educational needs. Increasing numbers of young people have special health care needs, which need to be addressed in schools to stop education being disrupted.
Sex and relationships education with visually impaired pupils
Authors: Watts Sue
Published: May 2014

It is important for all young people to learn about sexual health in order to protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancy. This critical analysis explores sex education in schools and how it should be adapted when teaching visually impaired pupils.
Sexual health education by young people for young people
Authors: Aistrup Andrew , Genever Charley , McElderry Ciara , Sykes Abigail
Published: May 2014

Andrew, Charley, Ciara and Abigail explain how they set up their own sexual health service and why they believe that it can make a difference to young people.
Working with self-harming children and young people
Authors: Weston Frances
Published: May 2014

In the first article in a series on different mental health issues affecting children and young people, Frances Weston investigates self-harm in children and young people.
Effects of chronic pain on children and young people
Authors: Reaney Rebecca L , Davis Suzanne , Goddard John M
Published: May 2014

Chronic pain in children can lead to poor school attendence and social isolation. School nurses have an important role to play in supporting affected children and working with other health professionals and school employees to devise effective strategies to make school more accessible to them.
Type 1 diabetes, part 1: An introduction
Authors: Thornton Helen
Published: May 2014

With a rise in the incidence of different forms of diabetes in children and young people, it is important for school nurses to understand these conditions. In this article, Helen Thornton provides an overview of type 1 diabetes and its treatment.
Guidance on healthy packed lunches for school children
Authors: Williamson Claire
Published: May 2014

Poor dietary habits can impair children’s development and wellbeing as well as put them at risk of health problems in later life. Claire Williamson looks at the dietary needs of children and provides some practical ideas for healthy packed lunches.
Working in a boys boarding school: Richard Cotton’s day
Authors: Cotton Richard
Published: May 2014

07:15 Wake up, listen briefly to the radio, shower, and make breakfast.
Working with children who have been bullied
Authors: Weston Frances
Published: May 2014

In this article in a series on different mental health issues affecting children and young people, Frances Weston looks at bullying, the different forms it may take and signs that may indicate a child is being bullied. Short-term and long-term effects are also considered.
Children's perspectives on height and weight screenings
Authors: Blood Emma , Grogan Sarah
Published: May 2014

Aim: The objective of this short study was to gain an insight into children's views, experiences and thoughts in relation to height and weight screenings carried out in school, and to use these to make recommendations for school health practitioners to make these screenings as positive as possible for children.

Methods: Twelve children (nine girls and three boys) aged between 10 and 11 years were interviewed individually and in groups and asked questions about their experiences of height and weight screenings in school.

Results: Six main themes emerged: information; the importance of secrecy; social support at time of testing; being the correct height and weight; teasing; and weight and health.

Conclusions: Children discussed the negatives and positives of height and weight screenings and ways to improve these. Recommendations for practitioners working on the National Child Measurement Programme and further research are made.
Hay fever can have a devastating impact on school achievement
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: May 2014

Hay fever can have a serious impact on school achievement and exam performance in particular. School nurses can play an important role in ensuring that young people with the condition are adequately informed and supported.
Mental health education programmes: Role of theatre
Authors: Stephens Helen , Short Clare , Molodynski Louise
Published: May 2014

Aims and method: To pilot and evaluate an innovative theatre and mental health education programme, designed to increase awareness and understanding of self-harm in adolescents and improve awareness of avenues of help. Working in collaboration with the Myrtle Theatre Company a play on the theme of self-harm in adolescence was commissioned, and was shown to staff from Bristol secondary schools. Workshops were held following the performance of the play.

Results: Participants completed evaluation questionnaires before (n=20) and after (n=15) the play. The responses indicated an increase in understanding of self-harm and confidence to discuss the related issues. Ideas about developing the programme in schools were proposed.

Clinical implications: A combination of theatre and workshops can be a non-confrontational yet powerful tool to engage an audience in a meaningful way to think about difficult emotional issues, including self-harm.
Looking at methods to organize pupils for effective group work
Authors: Faber Krista
Published: May 2014

This month Krista Faber provides some suggestions to help school nurses, with little experience in teaching PSHE, to effectively divide the classroom for group work.
An overview of medicine policies for schools
Authors: Quinlivan Marie
Published: May 2014

For children and young people's safety it is crucial that appropriate medicines policies are in place. This article looks at the some of the main characteristics of school medicine policies, with a particular focus on the independent sector.
Witchcraft accusations and exorcism: A form of child abuse
Authors: Obadina Seye
Published: May 2014

Child abuse linked to accusations of witchcraft and spirit possession can have very serious cases on the physical health and wellbeing of children. School nurses can play an important role in identifying and supporting victims.

This article looks at the prevalence and the potential impact of these accusations.
Female genital mutilation: Raising awareness among teachers
Authors: Thandi Kamaljit
Published: May 2014

Raising awareness of female genital mutilation (FGM) in the school environment is essential. Kamaljit Thandi provides information and advice on FGM, which school nurses can provide to teachers and other professionals working in schools.
Self-harm in children and young people: A case study
Authors: Clarke Jules
Published: May 2014

Cases of self-harm in children and young people have risen in recent years. Jules Clarke looks at the reasons behind one teenager's self-harming behaviours, the support he receives and the advice he has for school nurses.
Bath and shower installations
Authors: Hill Glynis L
Published: May 2014

It is still the cultural norm for bathrooms in Britain to be equipped with baths, and for a shower to be an additional facility rather than the sole means of bathing. Many people with disabilities believe that their inability to use a bath would be solved by the installation of a shower and there is now a large range of options of both types to give more freedom of choice than ever before.
Hydrotherapy as experienced by outpatients in a general hospital
Authors: Jackson Anne
Published: May 2014

This article aims to give readers from different disciplines an insight into qualitative research in practice as well as disseminating the findings to physiotherapists with a special interest in hydrotherapy.
The effects of dyspraxia on family relationships
Authors: Gibson Rebecca C
Published: May 2014

Dyspraxia has a vast effect on a child's life. These include the inability to coordinate, coupled with frequent feelings of frustration and a lack of concentration, causing problems both in the school and home environments. This article describes a small scale study into the effects of dyspraxia on family life, taken from a parental perspective.
What are multisensory environments?
Authors: Hong Chia Swee , Kenyon Jane , Cook Hayley
Published: May 2014

Multisensory environments (MSEs) are sensory experiences which are designed to stimulate the primary senses of clients. This article introduces MSEs and considers theoretical and practical issues regarding their uses. MSEs appear to be beneficial for clients with sensory, physical and learning disabilities.
Access for disabled people:applauding improvements
Authors: Scullion Philip
Published: May 2014

It would appear that there is a charter for all occasions: citizens, patients, maternity services, GP practices, students and even one for whistleblowers. And one, no doubt familiar to rehabilitation professionals, for disabled people using hospitals (Royal College of Physicians, 1992). Clearly real improvements in our services can be linked with charters; reductions in clinic waiting times and the provision of information to patients serve as examples, but without widespread commitment the danger is that they may do more for academics than for patients.
Heat-related problems for the Paralympic Games, Atlanta 1996
Authors: Webborn ADJ
Published: May 2014

The Paralympic Games provide the ultimate challenge for the athlete with a disability. The choice of Atlanta, Georgia for the 1996 games means the athletes will also face an uncompromising adversary in the environmental conditions. The problems of exercise in the heat are discussed, with details of the particular problems of the various disability groups, and the strategies that the British team will take to minimize those problems.
The Canadian occupational performance measure: what do users consider important?
Authors: Ward GE , Jagger C , Harper WMH
Published: May 2014

Outcome measures are becoming mandatory in the NHS. One of the issues now arising is whose outcomes are being measured? Different professionals may have different outcome priorities and these may be different from the patients own desired outcomes.
Southampton Stroke Audit: assessing service quality
Authors: Tyson SF , Turner GF
Published: May 2014

This paper describes and discusses a methodology developed to comprehensively assess the quality of stroke services, the problems faced and how they were overcome. Stroke management was defined and used to carry out a criterion-based process audit, which was combined with surveys of patient satisfaction and the staff's view of the service they provided.
Health care access and equality for disabled people
Authors: Harrison John
Published: May 2014

The health service too often ignores the needs and rights of disabled people. Recognizing this, interdisciplinary groups in some hospitals have been working towards improvement. The physical environment is one issue: equally important are reforms of attitudes, communication and understanding. This personal view argues the necessity of involving disabled people as active partners in change.
Implementing section 21 of the Disability Discrimination Act in the NHS
Authors: Scullion Philip
Published: May 2014

Whenever we see a patient who happens to have an existing impairment, perhaps we should heartily congratulate them. After all, they are very likely to have overcome a number of barriers which exist in the physical environment, such as inaccessible public transport, just to get to the clinic or hospital. A recent report showed that, having overcome these difficulties, on arrival at healthcare facilities, barriers encountered by such people remain all too common (NHS Executive, 1999). The report was commissioned by the NHS Executive as part of its commitment to ensuring equity of service provision for clients with various impairments and to ensure that all services comply with section 21 of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA).
Update on bathing solutions
Authors: Fitzgerald Julia
Published: May 2014

A recent study conducted by the Medical Devices Agency entitled Bathing and Showering Equipment for People with Severe Disabilities indicated that therapists, users and parents of disabled children typically look for a product that is similar to one already used. This means that alternative solutions may not even be considered, resulting in whole ranges of products remaining unexplored.
Researching complementary medicine
Authors: Vickers Andrew
Published: May 2014

There seem to be some immediate problems in applying research techniques to complementary medicine which has led to propositions that these methods are abandoned. However, arguments used in critiques of conventional research are unsound. Conventional research has been applied to complementary medicine and has provided information of value to patients and clinicians.
New challenges and opportunities for service delivery
Authors: Bassett Jo , Lloyd Chris
Published: May 2014

To remain competitive in an environment that favours outcomes and cost-effective service delivery, occupational therapists should think differently about the type of services that could be delivered and the development of new systems and policies. The profession must demonstrate leadership if therapists are to secure a place in the competitive environment in which they work.
Equipment for moving and handling: hoists and slings
Authors: Steed Ron , Tracey Clive
Published: May 2014

This article gives an overview of the hoists and slings that are available for moving and handling. It is abbreviated from the chapter ‘Equipment: what's available and how do I use it’ taken from the book Safer Handling of People in the Community, published by BackCare.
The Vario 2 care bed from Theraposture
Authors: Thorn Sylvie
Published: May 2014

The Vario 2 care bed from Theraposture was evaluated by nurses working in a neurological rehabilitation unit. The evaluation considered whether the bed was suitable for this type of setting, whether it met the needs of the patient group, whether it promoted user independence and whether it reduced the carer's load.
Bathing equipment for children and adolescents with special needs: 1
Authors: Taylor-Cookson Judith , Mitchell Justine
Published: May 2014

This article is the first of two articles which look at a variety of static bathing equipment available for use with children and adolescents. It focuses on equipment supplied from two companies regularly used by clinicians. Components, accessories, adjustability and advantages and disadvantages of each piece of equipment are discussed.
Predicting rehabilitation outcomes
Authors: Taylor Lisa
Published: May 2014

There is increasing demand on rehabilitation clinicians to quantify patient outcome in a cost-conscious health environment. The purpose of this research was to investigate the ability of the Functional Independence Measure and Functional Assessment Measure to predict the two outcomes of length of stay and discharge destination.
Chronic fatigue syndrome
Authors: Welsh Liz
Published: May 2014

Chronic fatigue syndrome is a serious disorder the existence of which used to be doubted. Liz Welsh explains how to to tell if a patient has it.
Maintaining continuity of care
Authors: Bassett Hazel , Lampe Jill , Lloyd Chris
Published: May 2014

The transition from being an inpatient in a psychiatric unit to living independently in the community is a difficult one. Continuity of care is often not achieved. Many consumers tend to drop out of mental health services only to reappear later needing admission. In this paper we will explore some of the strategies employed by a rehabilitation service to address this issue.
The Blue Wave Toileting System for children and adolescents
Authors: Irvine Judith , Huleatt Martin
Published: May 2014

The Blue Wave Toileting System from Rifton Equipment was designed in response to the demand for a product that was versatile and affordable. The modular design of the system means that its components can be used in any combination, enabling the system to adapt to meet the unique personal care needs of the user.
Rehabilitation outreach: a grounded theory study
Authors: Stevenson David
Published: May 2014

This article describes a grounded theory study which was carried out in order to examine the role of a team of 6 generic rehabilitation outreach workers. These staff form part of a rehabilitation service operating within a rural setting in Northern England. Importantly, the generic workers support therapists both prior to and following discharge from hospital.
Assessment of the multisensory environment
Authors: Pinkney Lesley
Published: May 2014

Research has demonstrated that selective use of multisensory environments reduces some of the behaviour problems seen in elderly people with dementia. However, few studies have considered the issue of assessment. This paper gives an overview of some of the methods of assessment which could be used within the multisensory environment.
Rehabilitation nursing conference across the Atlantic
Authors: Davis Sally , Hawkey Brenda , Williams Jane
Published: May 2014

Sally Davis, Brenda Hawkey and Jane Williams report on the Rehabilitation Nurses' Forum conference in Coventry and the Association of Rehabilitation Nursing conference in Minneapolis. They detail the different approaches of each of these conferences and the contacts they were able to establish, with a view to sharing the aims and developments of the profession.
Zanaflex (tizanidine hydrochloride) in spasticity management
Authors: Barnes Michael
Published: May 2014

This article details the pharmacology and clinical efficacy of tizanidine hydrochloride (Zanaflex), a novel, centrally acting α2 agonist licensed for the treatment of spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury or disease.
Psychosocial factors, alcohol abuse and women
Authors: Farrell Anita
Published: May 2014

This article reviews the literature concerning the role that psychlogical factors play in the aetiology and maintenance of alchol abuse in women. It is argued that further research is needed into the drinking patterns of women who abuse alcohol. The need to tailor treatment approaches to each individual within a supportive social framework is proposed.
OT and work-related programmes for people with a mental illness
Authors: Lloyd Chris , Samra Pam
Published: May 2014

People with a mental illness face difficulties in accessing services and obtaining employment. There is an increased emphasis on collaborative partnerships and on promoting employment options for people with a mental illness. Occupational therapists are well placed to develop work-related programmes to help people with a mental illness find meaningful employment.
The new Disability Rights Commission
Authors: Rose Alyson
Published: May 2014

After decades of campaigning by disabled people and disability organizations, the new Disability Rights Commission (DRC) opened its doors for business in April.
Case study: meeting the needs of a child with multiple disabilities
Authors: Takacs Zsuzsanna
Published: May 2014

Meeting the needs of children with multiple disabilities is one of the greatest challenges for educational establishments. This article discusses the general issues of collaboration and communication between the professionals in the context of one special school. It also presents the findings of a small-scale action research project as a possible model to improve present practice.
Multidisciplinary outcome measurement: is it possible?
Authors: Miller Alison
Published: May 2014

This article describes the introduction of a system of multidisciplinary outcome measurement to a stroke and rehabilitation unit. It is a personal reflection on the experiences of those involved rather than an evaluation of the tool itself. It looks at how the system was implemented, what has been achieved and which difficulties have been encountered.
The Special Needs Design service in Edinburgh
Authors: Farley Robert
Published: May 2014

A clinical pathway, called Special Needs Design, to custom-made equipment has been developed in partnership with local community therapists to serve disabled clients. Examples of contemporary work are reported, together with service dimensions, regulatory issues and its future role in the wider rehabilitation setting.
Methods used to assess range of motion in the spine
Authors: Eveleigh Gillian , Everett Tony
Published: May 2014

Assessing range of motion is an important part of the physical examination of patients with spinal musculoskeletal dysfunction, and many methods and tools are available to assess spinal motion. However, little has been published on what is actually being used by physiotherapists in the clinical setting and why. This study set out to examine this field to suggest areas for further research.
Meeting the Challenge: does it meet our challenge?
Authors: White Elizabeth
Published: May 2014

The Department of Health (DoH) launched Meeting the Challenge: a Strategy for the Allied Health Professions in November 2000 (DoH, 2000a). Its aim is to support the proposals in the NHS Plan (DoH, 2000b) by developing the role of the allied health professions and ensuring that their work is recognized and valued in order to benefit patients.
Posture and seating for wheelchair users: an introduction
Authors: Turner Christine
Published: May 2014

Despite the fact that postural management in mobility seating is so important, many people seem to forget about it. To the uninitiated a wheelchair is merely a method of moving a person from point A to point B. The recognition of the functional independence benefits of good postural management for people in wheelchairs is becoming self-evident.
Can the NHS hold on to new PAM graduates?
Authors: Newman Garry
Published: May 2014

With the publication of the NHS Plan (DoH, 2000a), the government acknowledged that the most serious constraint facing the NHS is staff shortages. The government’s stated intention to increase the number of therapists in the NHS by 6500 by 2004 and the number of physiotherapists by 59% by 2009 is clearly ambitious. These measures would obviously be of enormous benefit to the NHS, but the question is, can the government deliver?
Attitudes to and use of research in speech and language therapy
Authors: Pennington Lindsay
Published: May 2014

A survey of attitudes towards research and its use by speech and language therapists was undertaken in 11 departments in the North West of England. Questionnaires were returned by 193 speech and language therapists. Perceived barriers to implementing research findings are reported, along with suggestions for promoting research implementation by the allied health professions.
CORRESPONDENCE
Authors: Bannigan Katrina
Published: May 2014

I share the concern voiced by Millington (2001) about the new incapacity benefit tests. While I appreciate that his primary concern was about the poverty faced by disabled people, I have a concern about the support for those people deemed able to look for work. For occupational therapists, vocational rehabilitation is a major consideration. This is because occupation, of which work is an aspect, ‘is one of the means by which everyone is able to realize their potential; cope with their environment; and live as healthily as possible. Thus, the occupational therapist is able to use all forms of occupation as therapeutic measures to promote healthy and satisfying lifestyles.’ (Bumphrey, 1995.)
Cutlery for children with special needs
Authors: Taylor-Cookson Judith , Mitchell Justine
Published: May 2014

This article aims to provide an overview of the cutlery for children with special needs that is most frequently recommended by occupational therapists working within the Cheshire, Lancashire, Merseyside and Greater Manchester area. The different kinds of cutlery discussed are designed to meet the needs of children and adolescents with a variety of difficulties.
Risk assessment of the compatibility of hoists and slings
Authors: Hall Debra
Published: May 2014

Hoists and slings are often provided by employers as a means of eliminating the need for staff to handle clients manually. Legislation requires employers to provide safe systems of work and safe equipment, so it is essential that a hoist and sling function safely together. Detailed examination of the two components as part of a risk assessment allows staff to establish their compatibility.
Chronic pain — the need for an eclectic approach: 1
Authors: Birkholtz Marietta , Blair Sheena EE
Published: May 2014

This two-part paper discusses whether occupational therapists could utilize the psychodynamic approach to extend cognitive-behavioural pain management. Part one reviews basic cognitive-behavioural and psychodynamic theory and looks at their relevance to chronic pain sufferers. Part two will provide a rationale for the application of the psychodynamic approach in chronic pain.
Speech and language therapy services in education: we've never had it so good
Authors: Edelman Gill
Published: May 2014

Speech and language therapists (SLTs) often lament the lack of awareness about the needs of children with speech, language and communication difficulties.
Complementary therapies: physiotherapists' attitudes
Authors: Mandy Anne , Lyons Deborah
Published: May 2014

There is a growing debate about the place of complementary medicine in mainstream health care. Research to date has largely concentrated on GPs' and hospital doctors' attitudes towards complementary therapies with little research involving other disciplines. This survey investigated physiotherapists' attitudes towards and use of complementary medicine in NHS physiotherapy.
Chronic pain: the need for an eclectic approach — part 2
Authors: Birkholtz Marietta , Blair Sheena
Published: May 2014

Part two of this article explores the possibility of combining psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioural and occupational interventions with clients who present with psychogenic and psychosomatic pain aetiology. An extensive literature review covering occupational therapy's history with psychodynamic intervention is followed by an outline of a 12-week occupational therapy programme.
Integrating students with physical disabilities: part 1
Authors: Cousins Rachel , Thomson Diane
Published: May 2014

This study investigates whether the British Government's policy of integrating students with physical disabilities into mainstream education affects the thinking of teachers of these students in the ‘real world’. The first part will present a critique of the background literature, define the methods of the study and detail the results. The second part will discuss the results and propose recommendations for the future.
Rehabilitation nursing: bringing the future into focus
Authors: Davis Sally
Published: May 2014

The fourth 2-day annual conference of the Rehabilitation Nursing Forum was held in Newcastle in October 2000. As in previous conferences, its aim was to give nurses and other health-care professionals the opportunity to present papers and posters on current practice covering cultural considerations, rehabilitation assistants/education, assessment and outreach/ community. A wide variety of abstracts were submitted in the form of posters and concurrent, plenary or workshop sessions. Over 200 delegates attended, consisting mainly of nurses but including physiotherapists, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists and a GP.
Integrating students with physical disabilities: part 2
Authors: Cousins Rachel , Thomson Diane
Published: May 2014

The second part of this paper discusses the results of an investigation into secondary school teachers' attitudes towards disabled students and their perceptions of integration. The study also sought to compare attitudes with experience of teaching students with physical disabilities, the effects of gender, special education training and contact with a disabled person outside the school.
Judging evidence using legal concepts
Authors: Canning Barbara , Scullion Philip
Published: May 2014

It is increasingly acknowledged that health-care practices in all disciplines must, as far as possible, be evidence based. This article explores some legal concepts related to ‘evidence’ in order to enhance the confidence and ability of health-care practitioners to read, understand and judge the evidence in published research.
Psychiatric rehabilitation on an inpatient unit
Authors: Lloyd Chris , Salomons Linda
Published: May 2014

This article describes an organizational improvement project carried out in an Australian inpatient psychiatric unit. It examined nurses' perception of rehabilitation and how their involvement in rehabilitation could be facilitated. The findings highlight the importance of collaboration in bringing about changes in service delivery.