bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Planning and preparation
Authors: Manning Allison
Published: May 2014

Allison Manning's school is about to begin delivery of the Diploma in hair and beauty studies. She discusses some of the challenges the preparation for this new qualification has thrown up
Follow the leader
Authors: Mortimer Gail
Published: May 2014

Experienced teacher and GTCE council member Gail Mortimer discusses the importance of good CPD leadership in schools today
Making contact
Authors: Piggott Terry
Published: May 2014

Terry Piggott is overseeing his local authority's implementation of the national online directory for those working with children – ContactPoint
Supporting SEN children
Authors: Cousins Tony
Published: May 2014

Tony Cousins from the Witherslack Group of schools talks about their approach to SEN and behaviour management
Share and share alike
Authors: Cordy-McKenna Henry
Published: May 2014

Download site Teachable offers teachers across the country a way to share ICT materials. Teacher Henry Cordy-McKenna explains how it works for him
Birmingham goes for ISA
Authors: Thomas Alison
Published: May 2014

More than 10,000 schools have registered for the International School Award in its 10-year history. Even entire local authorities are now signing up for full accreditation of all their schools. Alison Thomas reports from Birmingham
Seeking out a sponsor
Authors: Keates Chris
Published: May 2014

One of the distinguishing features of an academy is sponsorship. Here we look at what role the sponsor plays, what it aims to achieve, and some of the concerns that have been raised. Chris Parr reports
Technology in action
Authors: Barker Ray
Published: May 2014

Scotland is renowned for developing innovative approaches to teaching and learning, particularly using technology. Ray Barker reviews some of the latest ICT developments in Scotland over the last twelve months
What is personalisation?
Authors: Barker Ray
Published: May 2014

Hands up if you actually know what personalised learning is. Ray Barker looks at some definitions
Are we measuring the right things?
Authors: Haigh Gerald
Published: May 2014

At the end of the last school year, Microsoft held a roundtable discussion on the collection and use of pupil data. Gerald Haigh was there and reports on what was said
Bringing PSHE to life
Authors: Makin Paul
Published: May 2014

Schools in Wakefield have been using the NHS Teen LifeCheck within their PSHE lessons. Wakefield Council's Paul Makin explains
A careers advice revolution
Authors: Watts Tony
Published: May 2014

Careers advice, or education information, advice and guidance, as it is becoming increasingly known, is changing. Here Tony Watts from the National Institute for Careers Education and Counselling discusses his report into careers services. But first, Joan
Ask the right questions
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

Almost one month in and NQTs around the country are still getting to grips with their roles. Margaret Adams says that asking the right questions is crucial at this early stage
Being a bold school leader
Authors: Farrar Maggie
Published: May 2014

Ambitious heads who take risks and who learn alongside their teachers are key to raising the bar for all children, says Maggie Farrar.
Advice from the NQT mentors
Authors: White Daniel
Published: May 2014

Daniel White speaks to NQT mentors from across the UK to find out what advice they have for first-year teachers and what effective NQT mentoring looks like
When students develop crushes
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: May 2014

One of the most difficult situations for teachers, especially NQTs, can be when a student develops a crush on you. Dorothy Lepkowska looks at how you can handle this very sensitive problem.
Aiming high
Authors: Eisenthal Joshua
Published: May 2014

When Somalian refugee Suleyman Abdi applied to study engineering at Oxford, the odds were against him. But with his hard work and the support of his school, he made it. His tutor, Joshua Eisenthal, explains what role the school played in his success.
ADHD: Impact and causes
Authors: Madan Madan , Holland Paul
Published: May 2014

Up to 400,000 children are said to have ADHD in the UK. Dr Madan Mall and Dr Paul Holland consider the causes and impact of the condition and discuss evidence of polarised behaviour in sufferers.
Inclusive technologies
Authors: McKeown Sal
Published: May 2014

Sal McKeown spent several months interviewing staff in schools throughout the UK for the book Brilliant Ideas for using ICT in the Inclusive Classroom. Here she reports on some of the ways that technology can support SEN students.
Amazing histories
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

An Australian psychologist has registered a new approach to historical biographies called ‘BioViews’, which he believes can engage students in the life stories of some of history's most amazing people. Child psychologist Karen Sullivan checks out his claim.
Becoming a thinking school
Authors: Henshaw Pete
Published: May 2014

Rochester Grammar is an Advanced Thinking School. Denise Shepherd explains how and why the school has put thinking at the heart of its curriculum.
Giving the right careers advice
Authors: Henshaw Pete
Published: May 2014

With new duties for schools to deliver independent and impartial careers advice, the role of careers advisors has never been so important. Sarah Chapman looks at some approaches that advisors and schools can take.
Action research in the classroom
Authors: Mallaband Chris
Published: May 2014

Undertaking research to improve practice is becoming a common activity in UK classrooms. Principal Chris Mallaband explains how his school is developing a researching culture.
Four key lessons to get your school to outstanding
Authors: Henshaw Pete
Published: May 2014

What does outstanding look like and how can you get there as a school? Dan Belcher delivers four fundamental lessons from secondary schools on the frontline aimed at helping you to achieve outstanding.
Raising teacher morale by finding and spreading best practice
Authors: Solly Ben
Published: May 2014

The pressure is on teachers at the moment with a raft of policy change and high profile attacks from politicians and Ofsted. Ben Solly looks at how school leaders can keep their teachers' morale high – and it starts with focusing on sharing good practice.
A mentor's advice for NQTs at the end of term one
Authors: Torn David
Published: May 2014

NQT mentor David Torn takes us through the advice that he normally offers to his mentees at this time of year.
Using cinema as part of a rewards system
Authors: Roberts Ruth
Published: May 2014

William Parker School uses the appeal and inspiration of film to motivate its learners. Ruth Roberts explains how they use cinema as part of a rewards system.
Heading to Bett 2013?
Authors: Henshaw Pete
Published: May 2014

SecEd's free 32-page guide to the Bett 2013 technology-in-education show early next year offers visitors an overview of the event's CPD, workshops, presentations and exhibition. You can download both a digital edition and PDF version.
From the classroom to the stage
Authors: Smurthwaite Nick
Published: May 2014

Gravity, a play by former science teacher Arzhang Pezhman, deals with the threat of violence in the classroom and premieres this week. Nick Smurthwaite reports.
Bringing in the theatre
Authors: Elkin Susan
Published: May 2014

Theatre in education is alive and well with a plethora of companies offering a range of genres. Former English teacher and theatre expert Susan Elkin looks at some of what's out there and offers her advice.
White boys on Free School Meals
Authors: Welch Tom
Published: May 2014

Of those groups eligible for free school meals in schools, one of the worst performing is White, British boys. Tom Welch has been involved in a project to discover what factors can help these students to buck the trend at GCSE and beyond.
Bringing film to life
Authors: Adams Becky
Published: May 2014

The film Fortune Cookies is being produced as a social enterprise and includes an education programme for secondary students. Becky Adams explains.
It's tough at the top
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: May 2014

National and Locals Leaders of Education work to support schools which are working in challenging circumstances. Dorothy Lepkowska finds out more.
The value of work experience
Authors: Mann Anthony
Published: May 2014

With the statutory requirement for schools to provide clear work-related learning at key stage 4 being axed, Dr Anthony Mann and Carol Glover look at new evidence showing the value of work experience to educational progression.
Data for self-evaluation
Authors: Easton Claire
Published: May 2014

Claire Easton looks at the importance of collecting evidence for self-evaluation and improvement and offers some best practice advice.
Cracking down on truancy
Authors: Goddard Vic
Published: May 2014

Passmores Academy in Essex was the school immortalised in the recent Channel 4 television documentary Educating Essex. Headteacher Vic Goddard discusses how he deals with issues of truancy at the school.
Improving road skills
Authors: Rowley Sarah
Published: May 2014

A road safety organisation is offering free resources to help your students understand the dangers of driving on today's roads. Sarah Rowley explains.
Embracing VQ Day
Authors: Kevin Sir
Published: May 2014

Vocational Qualifications Day takes place on June 20 this year. Headteacher Sir Kevin Satchwell explains the success his school has achieved through a combination of complementary academic and vocational learning.
Supporting care leavers to stay in education
Authors: McAndrew Gerri
Published: May 2014

What can schools do to help children in care and leaving care to aspire to further and higher education? Gerri McAndrew explains.
Games design and coding
Authors: Elliott Harvey
Published: May 2014

Games industry veteran Harvey Elliott urges schools to embrace games design and coding and looks at a new initiative that can help.
Building up your brand
Authors: Benady Deborah
Published: May 2014

We may not like it, but having a strong brand is increasingly important for today's schools. Deborah Benady offers some advice.
Giving your students free rein
Authors: Brewin Kester
Published: May 2014

The need for assessment can often restrict the scope of students' work. Kester Brewin reports on a statistics project that is wide-ranging, student-led, ethical, challenging – all because it is not going to be marked.
Reaching their full potential
Authors: Hyams Lauren
Published: May 2014

The Prince's Trust's xl programme helps students who may, for whatever reason, be struggling in schools to achieve their potential. Lauren Hyams explains.
A Future in Food
Authors: Stalker Moira
Published: May 2014

One school's involvement with the national A Future in Food programme has set their pupils on an inspiring journey into the world of work. Moira Stalker explains.
The children who are accused of being witches
Authors: Pearce Tina
Published: May 2014

Police in London investigate nine cases a year where a child's welfare is at risk because someone believes them to be a witch or possessed by a demonic spirit. DC Tina Pearce explains the role that schools have to play.
Alive and Kicking
Authors: Tchilingirian David
Published: May 2014

As the rates of childhood obesity continue to escalate, nutritionist David Tchilingirian explains the importance of parent and teacher collaboration in tackling the issue and looks at an NHS-funded programme that is aiming to help.
Project-based homework
Authors: Fowler Kathryn
Published: May 2014

In a bid to transform student engagement with homework, Caistor Yarborough Academy has introduced project-based assignments which span up to seven weeks and are student-led. Kathryn Fowler explains.
End of September stocktake
Authors: Torn David
Published: May 2014

After the first four weeks of term, NQT mentor David Torn offers new teachers some tips.
In-class assessment using pupils’ mobiles
Authors: Freeman Jamie
Published: May 2014

After receiving a positive response to his article last year, Jamie Freeman has been working with SecEd readers to further develop a project using pupils’ mobile devices to help with in-class assessment.
Successful school fundraising in 10 steps
Authors: Gordon Rachel
Published: May 2014

Squeezed budgets and government cuts have made life difficult for schools and placed a new importance on raising additional monies locally. Rachel Gordon offers 10 dos and don'ts for successful school fundraising.
Comberton's academy conversion
Authors: Chambers Peter
Published: May 2014

In the final of his series of four articles looking at the pros and cons of academy status, Peter Chambers speaks to Comberton Village College, which has embraced conversion.
Dealing with homophobia and discrimination
Authors: Wood Alex
Published: May 2014

Alex Wood discusses discrimination against LGBT young people in Scotland, which research has shown is more common than elsewhere in the UK.
The VLE evolution
Authors: Mathewson Joseph
Published: May 2014

Virtual learning environments have evolved in recent years since their mass roll-out under the last government – and so have schools’ demands for what systems must provide. Joseph Mathewson explains.
Getting your NQTs to outstanding
Authors: Helan Lucy
Published: May 2014

Lucy Helan discusses her work to improve the quality of teaching in her school by developing a programme to support new teachers to reach outstanding.
‘In 22 years, I have never seen anything quite like it’
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

When musician, writer and performer Lois Walden visited an inner city London school to engage with 24 shy and introverted students, Karen Sullivan was uncertain about the impact she would have. But the experience left her – and the students –mesmerised.
Taking the sex out of STIs
Authors: Campbell Al
Published: May 2014

Many teachers feel uncomfortable tackling the issue of STIs within PSHE education. Al Campbell from teen health website Doctor Wellgood suggests a new approach.
Bring nature into the classroom
Authors: Birbeck Simon
Published: May 2014

For many urban schools, getting students out to experience nature can be tricky. However, nature can also be brought into the classroom. Simon Birbeck offers some ideas.
Are your middle leaders ready to handle performance-related pay?
Authors: Berkeley Andrea
Published: May 2014

The move to performance-related pay has real implications for the ‘squeezed middle’ of the school workforce. Andrea Berkeley advises on how schools can help their middle leaders to meet this new challenge.
The seven secrets to middle leadership
Authors: Solly Ben
Published: May 2014

The cogs of middle leadership are among the most important in the school system, but what are the secrets to being a successful and effective middle leader? Ben Solly offers seven key pieces of advice.
What are Career Colleges?
Authors: Gilbert Ruth
Published: May 2014

Launched last month, Career Colleges aim to offer a ‘rounded education’ within a sector or industry for 14 to 19-year-olds. SecEd invited Ruth Gilbert from the Career Colleges Trust to tell us more.
NQT Special: Develop four outstanding habits
Authors: Weston David
Published: May 2014

As an NQT, ensuring you start as you mean to go on with your CPD is vital. As part of SecEd's NQT special edition, David Weston offers four effective professional development habits.
NQT Special: Strategies for managing behaviour
Authors: Bromley Matt
Published: May 2014

Managing behaviour is often the biggest challenge for NQTs. As part of SecEd's NQT special edition, Matt Bromley discusses why students misbehave, how teachers can and should react in different circumstances, and offers 10 strategies for NQTs on how to manage behaviour in a calm and collected manner.
Literacy learning ideas
Authors: Hughes Sarah
Published: May 2014

Sarah Hughes looks at a number of tried-and-tested ideas to engage and motivate your students in improving their literacy levels.
Stress in schools – the legal position for teachers and management
Authors: Latham Vanessa
Published: May 2014

In a climate of austerity and constantly changing working conditions, stress is on the rise among teachers. Vanessa Latham looks at the legal position of teachers and schools where stress levels are running high and offers some advice for both school management and the teachers themselves.
Three keys to middle leadership
Authors: Powell Becky
Published: May 2014

Becky Powell describes her transition to middle leadership and the three key tenets that kept her on track.
Strategies for teaching students with ADHD
Authors: Mall Madan , Holland Paul
Published: May 2014

With 400, 000 children in the UK thought to have ADHD, Dr Madan Mall and Dr Paul Holland look at educational strategies that can help these young people to reach their full potential.
The potential of Teacher Learning Communities in education
Authors: Benziane Amy
Published: May 2014

Schools are increasingly embracing the idea of giving their teachers time to share best practice, learn together and improve their skills as a group. Amy Benziane discusses Teacher Learning Communities and the approaches that have proved successful in her school.
Conducting the perfect teaching job interview
Authors: Mydat Darryl
Published: May 2014

What is the best way to get the most from interviews with prospective teachers looking for a job at your school? Darryl Mydat provides some interview guidance for schools looking to recruit new staff.
Tackling the traits of teen alcoholism
Authors: Kelly Jon
Published: May 2014

After taking part in a pilot project to tackle alcohol misuse using targeted interventions with students grouped by personality traits and individual tendencies, Corelli College saw a real impact. Jon Kelly explains how.
The law when dealing with difficult visitors
Authors: Woollard Roy
Published: May 2014

What legal ‘armoury’ can a school use to defend itself when excluding difficult parents, unwanted visitors or other trouble-makers? Legal expert and former headteacher Roy Woollard explains.
Helping students to re-engage with their education
Authors: Hall Emlyn
Published: May 2014

Senior leader Emlyn Hall created and implemented an effective intervention system for pupils with behavioural issues, helping them to re-engage with school life. He explains how and why his approach worked.
Health tips to help students get through their exams
Authors: Campbell Al
Published: May 2014

Exam performance and success is not just about learning, hard work and revision. Al Campbell looks at how health and wellbeing factors can play a huge part.
ICT and SEN – a case study
Authors: Harrold Richard
Published: May 2014

ICT has a powerful role to play in supporting the learning of children with SEN. Richard Harrold looks at the technologies that his school is using.
The countdown to computing
Authors: Harrison Bob
Published: May 2014

An expert group has been convened by the DfE to develop advice, resources and CPD as schools prepare for the introduction of the new computing curriculum. Bob Harrison explains.
Preparing your students for the job hunt
Authors: Sherman Jackie
Published: May 2014

Employers today are very clear on the importance of skills in young people entering the jobs market. Jackie Sherman looks at how school-leavers may demonstrate their employability skills.
The secrets to strong governance
Authors: Hanson David
Published: May 2014

In the face of the many challenges embroiling education, David Hanson looks at why and how strong governance, and good working relationships with headteachers, can help schools to be successful.
Free online tools for education
Authors: Begg Jennifer
Published: May 2014

Continuing her series of articles on the effective use of social media and digital tools by schools, Jennifer Begg looks at some free online resources that might prove useful to teachers.
From team member to team leader…
Authors: Matershaw Pete
Published: May 2014

Making the transition from being a member of your departmental team to the team's leader is always a challenge. After recently making this move himself, Pete Matershaw offers some advice on becoming a middle leader.
NQT special: Standing up for your rights as a new teacher
Authors: Keates Chris
Published: May 2014

It is vital that new teachers know their rights and entitlements as they adjust to life at the chalkface. The NASUWT's Chris Keates discusses the importance of supporting our NQTs and explains why and how the union is challenging government to help protect all teachers.
NQT special: Avoiding false accusations
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: May 2014

Sadly, new teachers must be aware of the dangers of pupils who make false accusations. Dorothy Lepkowska looks at some recent cases and offers advice on how to avoid being falsely accused.
NQT special: How to slow your working life down
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

The past year has probably gone by in a blur for most NQTs as you were thrown in at the deep end of teaching. Margaret Adams looks at why you might consider making an effort to ‘slow down’ in year two.
A whole-school approach to improving literacy
Authors: Bhundia Cathy
Published: May 2014

Tackling the attainment gap between Pupil Premium pupils and their peers at King Edward VII College has been a key focus for staff, including the aim of improving literacy levels. Cathy Bhundia discusses their strategies.
New school year resolutions
Authors: Solly Ben
Published: May 2014

September brings with it a fresh start for teachers across the country. School leader Ben Solly offers some ideas for New Year Resolutions that will help you to be the best you can be this year.
The Amnesty Teacher Programme
Authors: McGuane Ciara
Published: May 2014

Amnesty International has launched a brand new CPD programme designed to help teachers inspire their students and enliven their lessons by engaging with citizenship education and human rights. Ciara McGuane explains.
Evaluating the need for continuing professional development (CPD)
Authors: Branscombe Liz , Lumbis Rachel
Published: May 2014

As professionals, it is essential that veterinary nurses seek to deliver the highest standards of patient care. In order to do this effectively, they must keep their skills and competence up to date. This article will discuss the need for relevant and effective continuing professional development (CPD) and methods by which it can be completed. The process of planning and organizing CPD relies on needs assessment to identify individual strengths and weaknesses. In addition, the article highlights the role of reflection in effective CPD with a comparison of two frequently cited reflective models. Veterinary nurses who maintain their competence as well as using evidenced-based practice to develop new skills, will also help to develop veterinary nursing as a profession.
Creating a nurse rota
Authors: Lowe Lucy
Published: May 2014

This article aims to give people who are responsible for creating the nurse rota in practice a guide to getting started. It addresses the external factors, such as employment law, and also the internal factors, such as dealing with staff requests, both of which can have an affect on the production of the rota. It looks at the various methods used to create nurse rotas and how a consistent and fair rota will help the veterinary practice.
Chronic pruritus in dogs: a systematic approach to diagnosis
Authors: Robinson KJE , Macfarlane CK
Published: May 2014

Pruritus is a common reason for visiting the veterinary surgery and pruritic dogs can present as challenging cases to solve. There are many possible causes of pruritus and a systematic approach can help clinicians to identify the cause in most cases. This article attempts to present a simplified and logical approach to diagnosis and show how veterinary nurses can play a vital role in coming to a diagnosis.
Feline calicivirus: unveiling data on viral inactivation
Authors: Lemos Madalena , Nóbrega Cármen , Vala Helena , Mesquita João R
Published: May 2014

Feline calicivirus (FCV) is an important and widespread virus of the feline population. As a member of the Caliciviridae family, FCV mutates readily in nature, and this has resulted in the recent emergence of a highly virulent haemorrhagic systemic strain. Despite the increased concern about this feline pathogen, little is still known on potential FCV virucidal compounds. On the other hand several experiments on the inactivation behaviour of various surface disinfectants have used FCV as a surrogate to monitor norovirus survival in order to minimize their impact on public health. This has led to a considerable number of studies generating a huge amount of data on FCV inactivation. These findings are presented here and may be useful to veterinary nurses who can improve their practice by minimizing FCV transmission.
Dressings used in equine traumatic wound care
Authors: Packer Melissa , Devaney Jane
Published: May 2014

This article will look at the different dressings available to the equine veterinary practice and their use when dealing with equine wounds. Wounds on the distal limbs of equids can be extremely frustrating and costly for the owner to deal with, therefore, choosing the dressing most suitable for the individual wound is important.
How to produce diagnostic orthopaedic radiographs
Authors: Blundell Frankie
Published: May 2014

Orthopaedic radiography can be challenging, but also very rewarding when good diagnostic radiographs are produced. This article explains the necessary theory required and details a step by step standard technique to achieve this. Positioning points and tips are given for the shoulder, elbow, pelvis and stifle.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics for VNs: 2
Authors: Murrell Joanna
Published: May 2014

In order to use drugs safely in animals it is important to understand individual drug pharmacodynamics, or the physiological effects of the drug on the body. This article describes the principles of pharmacodynamics, starting with the different mechanisms by which drugs bound to a receptor can elicit an effect as well as the receptor actions of agonist, partial agonist and antagonist drugs. The terms efficacy and potency in terms of drug action are defined. Different pathways of drug metabolism and elimination are identified and the importance of understanding the relationship between drug pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics explained.
An introduction to handling aggressive patients
Authors: Yelland Tania , Whelan Fiona
Published: May 2014

Aggressive behaviour in animals can have serious consequences, with a number of people hospitalized by dogs each year. Many animals in the veterinary clinic feel fear and this can trigger aggressive behaviour, which is often aimed at veterinary professionals. It is useful to be able to read the signals given out by animals to identify whether aggression is likely, however, it should be remembered that animals can switch states very quickly, so that an animal appearing relaxed one minute may be aggressive the next.

Learning useful handling techniques can help in the safe management of animals in practice. In addition, long-term plans can be put in place to help animals with a history of aggressive behaviour. Restraint should be kept to a minimum, however, it is essential that both patients, owners and staff are kept safe and secure at all times.
Nursing the canine with osteosarcoma resulting in coxofemoral disarticulation
Authors: Daniels Laura
Published: May 2014

Osteosarcomas are malignant, aggressive tumours that are the most common skeletal tumours in dogs. This article outlines the condition and its management options. Canines who require coxofemoral disarticulation of the hind limb for the treatment of osteosarcoma require supportive and palliative nursing care. The veterinary nurse plays a vital role in patient care, including dietary intervention to prevent cancer cachexia and wound care. It is important that the dog is assisted with standing initially after the operation so that it can re-establish weight distribution and establish its first walk pattern with only three limbs. The nurse can educate the owner to follow a recovery plan to improve rehabilitation.
Hip dysplasia in dogs: control and prevention
Authors: Rodrigues D , Ortiz V , Vala H , Santos C , Oliveira AL
Published: May 2014

Hip dysplasia (HD) is an orthopaedic pathology with high prevalence in dogs, especially in large and giant breeds. It has a polygenic origin and is influenced by several factors such as age, sex, nutrition, metabolism, physical activity and hormones.

Animals affected with this disease are born with normal joints but as they develop, joint changes appear. These changes may be expressed by lameness, gait abnormalities, hip instability and pain in full extension of the joint.

To reduce the HD prevalence, selective breeding programmes have been implemented in which only animals free of disease or with minimal articular changes can reproduce. As these programmes do not always have the desired success, early radiographs should be performed in susceptible animals, in order to slow the progression of changes.

The aim of this review is to summarize canine HD control and prevention aspects, with reference to the factors that predispose to disease, and the various treatment options. The role played by the veterinary nurse in advising the HD dog owners on disease management and also on how to avoid the risk factors in order to reduce the number of affected animals, is also discussed.
Microchipping — is it time to make it compulsory?
Authors: Walsom Celia
Published: May 2014

The report Compulsory Microchipping in the UK outlined the country's growing problem of stray pets and cited that ‘the equivalent of one dog every hour was put down’ during 2009.
Equine sun-induced dermatoses
Authors: Williams Pauline , Barrif Jill
Published: May 2014

Photodermatitis is a commonly encountered skin condition in the horse in the summer months. This article explains the difference between phototoxicity and photosensitization and reviews the different dermatoses present in each condition. Pastern and cannon leukocytoclastic vasculitis is a less common cause of dermatitis affecting the lower limbs of the horse that has been associated with exposure to strong sunlight.
Principles of barrier nursing in the veterinary hospital
Authors: Moore Faye
Published: May 2014

This article aims to remind the reader of the importance of following barrier nursing techniques when patients are in isolation. It covers not only the use of personal protective clothing and equipment to protect veterinary nurses and patients and disinfection of the unit, but also how important the psychological needs of patients are as well as effective communication between veterinarians, nurses and clients.
How to care for and maintain flexible endoscopes
Authors: McMahon Leigh
Published: May 2014

Endoscopy is used frequently as a diagnostic tool in veterinary medicine. It is imperative that endoscopes are maintained correctly to prevent spread of infection/disease to patients, and to prevent costly repairs to these delicate pieces of equipment.

The role of endoscope maintenance generally falls onto the veterinary nurse/technician. The correct maintenance of this equipment is essential to ensure that health and safety requirements are adhered to and to prevent damage occurring to the equipment.

Maintenance involves adequate cleaning, bedside procedure, disinfectant, handling, storage, preventative maintenance and servicing/repairs.
Pathophysiology and treatment of kidney disease in cats
Authors: Breton Amy
Published: May 2014

Kidneys are responsible for the regulation of the body’s water, electrolyte and acid-base balance as well as excretion of metabolic waste products and foreign chemicals, glucose synthesis and erythropoietin production. Although kidney failure is a common disease affecting feline patients, an increased understanding of the disease and advances in treatment mean that cats are living longer after diagnosis. Renal disease can be acute or chronic, and is hallmarked by an elevated blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine (azotaemia). It is important that cats with kidney failure receive a complete diagnostic work-up in order to determine the underlying cause; tailored treatment includes fluid therapy, correcting acid-base and electrolyte abnormalities, treating hypertension and anaemia, renal transplantation, intermittent haemodialysis and continuous renal replacement therapy.
Hitching a ride: pet travel and tick risks since this year's rule changes
Authors: Morgan Eric , Smith Faith
Published: May 2014

On 1st January 2012, the rules for pet travel into the UK changed. Most notably, the requirement to treat against ticks on (re-)entry was removed. In this article, the authors consider what this might mean in terms of the risks of importing tick-borne diseases of importance to canine and human health, and how it should affect advice to clients in the UK planning to travel abroad with their dogs. The main tick species of concern is Rhipicephalus sanguineus, the brown dog or kennel tick and vector of Babesia vogeli, canine monocytic ehrlichiosis, hepatozoono-sis, and Mediterranen Spotted fever in humans. However, other ticks and diseases that are already endemic in the UK, especially Ixodes ricinus and Dermacentor reticulatus and the agent of Lyme borreliosis, also provide increasing cause for concern and should not be neglected when considering parasite control in dogs.
Understanding and reducing stress in dogs left home alone
Authors: Hargrave Claire
Published: May 2014

As stress is a physiological response to what is occurring in the surroundings, it is likely that every pet in the world experiences stress each day. Acute stress is essential for survival, enabling an animal to deal with the initiating stressors in a manner that will enhance the animal's chances of survival. However, many animals experience chronic stress — regular and/or continuous exposure to stressors at levels and proximities that the animal is unable to control or alter. Such stressors can lead to physiological and emotional distress and impaired welfare. The dog that is left alone in the home can become trapped in an environment for which it has no coping strategies or, due to circumstances outside its control, may have lost its previous coping strategies. Such dogs suffer daily impairments in welfare.
Peri-operative hypothermia and the preventative role of forced air warming devices
Authors: Henderson Tracy
Published: May 2014

Peri-operative hypothermia is an important condition for veterinary professionals to understand and avoid. There are numerous measures that can be taken to avoid peri-operative hypothermia. The use of forced air warming (FAW) is a common and effective method used in veterinary practice.

This report focuses on the indications, efficacy and risks of FAW in the prevention of hypothermia, by examining studies that have been carried out within the medical and veterinary fields. It shows that FAW warming is effective in preventing hypothermia, and that it is beneficial to combine FAW with other methods of insulation. While there is an associated risk these are rarely reported and easily avoided.
Managing pain in neonates
Authors: Ackerman Nicola
Published: May 2014

There are many physiological changes that occur in the neonate over the first few weeks of life. Analgesia of these patients needs to be considered alongside these physiological differences, and nursing care needs to be adapted to encompass them. Pain thresholds are lower in neonates, and pain can be deleterious and lead to critical situations. This article explores some of these physiological changes and the reasoning behind veterinary choice of analgesia.
The importance of fibre in rabbit health
Authors: Hamlin Jennifer
Published: May 2014

The importance of fibre cannot be underestimated in rabbit nutrition. Fibrous vegeatation is needed not only for a healthy gut, but also for wearing down the rabbit’s continually growing teeth. Like other herbivores, rabbits spend a great deal of time chewing plant matter so for pet rabbits, providing ample chewing opportunities is an important way to provide psychological enrichment. There are some new diets on the market currently which help ensure more comprehensive nutritional support for the rabbit’s specialized dietary needs.
Do clients know enough to protect their pets and themselves from tick-borne diseases?
Authors: Cartlidge Helen
Published: May 2014

Background: In the past risks from ticks and tick-borne diseases (TBDs) have been limited to particular times of the year and particular areas of the UK. However, in recent years the abundance and distribution of ticks in the UK has increased and ticks have been found to be active for prolonged periods. This has led to an increased risk from ticks and native TBDs. Additionally since the introduction of the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) in 2000 the risks from exotic ticks and exotic TBDs have increased. Client and staff knowledge is therefore essential to minimize the impact of these increased risks.

Aim: To investigate client and staff knowledge of ticks and related issues in different areas of the UK.

Materials and methods: Client and staff questionnaires were produced to test their knowledge of ticks and related issues via multiple-choice quiz type questions. They were distributed to five practices in a zoonotic high-risk area and five in a zoonotic low-risk area, determined according to the prevalence of borreliosis (Lyme disease). Once completed, client and staff questionnaires were marked and given a knowledge score with one mark for every correct answer selected.

Results: Analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed that clients and staff in zoonotic high-risk areas had significantly (p<0.001 and p=0.006 respectively) better knowledge compared with those in zoonotic low-risk areas. No significant difference was found in the knowledge of clients who were members of PETS and those who were not.

Conclusions: Risks posed by ticks and TBDs are no longer confined to high-risk areas. Tick populations are growing and expanding, people travel within the UK as well as abroad with their pets, and due to PETS the risk of exposure to exotic diseases both abroad and within the UK is increasing (especially in view of changes to the scheme in January 2012). All clients whether residing in high or low-risk areas need to be made aware of ticks, the potential for tick-borne diseases and how to protect their pets from such diseases.
Canine heat-induced hyperthermia and owner education
Authors: Mann Steph
Published: May 2014

Knowing how dogs deal with heat(or thermo-regulate) will help veterinary nurses and paraprofessionals better understand how to prevent, recognize and treat heatstroke in canine companions. Armed with this information clients can be educated and help prevent a tragedy. Hyperthermia or heatstroke is a killer on sunny days and can quickly overcome a dog. One of the leading causes is confinement of the dog in a car. The internal temperature of a car can rocket rapidly to in excess of 50°C in less than 10 minutes — less time than it takes to buy lunch ingredients from the local market. Even in low ambient temperatures, on sunny days, dogs confined to cars are at risk.
Canine and feline geriatric anaesthesia
Authors: Archer Emma
Published: May 2014

Approximately 30% of the veterinary population is now geriatric. The term geriatric is normally used to define those animals that have reached 75—80% of their breed-specific expected lifespan. Age is not a disease, however geriatric dogs and cats are more like to experience anaesthetic-related death and the likelihood of disease increases with age. Age-related physiological changes and diseases will affect the anaesthetic management, demonstrating a need for extra caution, planning and nursing care when faced with anaesthetizing the geriatric patient.
How to carry out artificial insemination using fresh semen
Authors: Adams Wendy
Published: May 2014

Artificial insemination can provide many benefits to breeding both in canines and other species. It allows the use of semen from stud dogs around the world without the requirement to transport the dogs, thereby opening up the possibilities of genetic diversity within a breed. The techniques required to perform insemination are complex but an invaluable tool in the breeding world.
Patient care report for a patient undergoing screening of the vertebral column
Authors: Lock Katie
Published: May 2014

Radiography of the spine poses various challenges that can be reduced by efficient planning and preparation. By understanding the relevant anatomy and its relationship to the primary beam as well as the aims of the study, diagnostic images can be produced. This report discusses the importance of accurate positioning and collimation, and highlights how systematic appraisal of images can identify faults and enable necessary measures to be taken to improve outcomes.
How to nurse the intensive care unit ventilator patient
Authors: Haskey Eleanor
Published: May 2014

Mechanical ventilators are an integral part of any intensive care unit. There are a variety of patients that may benefit from mechanical ventilation such as patients that are hypoxaemic (Pa02 <60mmHg) in spite of oxygen therapy, hypercapnic (PaC02>60mmHg) or at risk of impending respiratory failure. Mechanical ventilation is expensive and requires a dedicated nurse to care for the patient. This nurse must have an understanding of respiratory physiology, principles of mechanical ventilation, terminology, setting up the ventilator, troubleshooting problems, providing nursing care to meet the individual patient requirements and recognising signs of complications. Such cases require thorough clinical records and communication between staff members. They are labour intensive cases but can be extremely rewarding to nurse.
Should anthelmintics be restricted to POM-V classification?
Authors: Ackerman Nicola
Published: May 2014

The British Veterinary Association recently released a statement requesting that all anthelmintics become prescription only medicines. Nicola Ackerman, a veterinary nurse who has worked in large animal practice, and an SQP, discusses what this means.
Factors associated with steam sterilisation failure
Authors: Kerrigan Lynne
Published: May 2014

The continued prevalence of antibiotic resistant bacterial infections has raised awareness and standards of hygiene within veterinary practices. As the range and complexity of surgical procedures carried out within veterinary practice increases, so does the awareness and expectations of clients.

Infection control measures, such as the appointment of a designated infection control officer, and protocols, such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) 6-step hand hygiene method, have done much to raise standards, and are now routine practice throughout many veterinary surgeries. But has the same level of consideration been given to surgical supplies? Can we be sure that as long as the chemical indicator has initiated the expected colour change, the contents of a pack is sterile? Human errors are frequently associated with sterilisation failure. This article aims to discuss some such errors and the ways in which they may be prevented.
Safe delivery of anaesthetic agents in cats and rabbits
Authors: Slade Louise , Pickup Stephanie
Published: May 2014

This article reviews the methods used to administer volatile anaesthetic agents to veterinary patients, particularly focusing on the difficulties encountered when performing endotracheal intubation in cats and rabbits, and the negative outcomes associated with these difficulties. The article focuses on the novel use of supraglottic airway devices, which up until recently had only been available for human use, discussing the benefits that the use of these devices may have over using ‘standard’ anaesthetic agent delivery techniques.
European Antibiotics Awareness Day — how nurses can help
Authors: Eldridge Steve
Published: May 2014

European antibiotic awareness day was held on 18th November. Steve Eldridge, Policy Advisor in the Antimicrobial Resistance Team at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) explains what this means for veterinary nurses.
Percutaneous transvenous coil embolisation as treatment for intrahepatic portosystemic shunts
Authors: Mann Alison
Published: May 2014

Intrahepatic portosystemic shunts often occur due to failure of the ductus venous to close after birth. Surgical treatment of this anomaly historically involved acute closure of the vessel by ligation which would lead to a high morbidity rate due to the risk of portal hypertension. Percutaneous transvenous coil embolisation (PTCE) is a method of gradual occlusion of the shunting vessel thus aiming to avoid acute rises in portal venous pressure.

This article will discuss the use of this procedure compared with other methods as well as pre, peri and post-operative care of patents who have received PTCE.
Uso e conhecimento da aroeira (Myracrodruon urundeuva) por comunidades tradicionais no Semiárido brasileiro
Authors: De Lucena Reinaldo Farias Paiva , De Farias Derciopéricles Cavalcanti , Carvalho Thamires Kelly Nunes , De Lucena Camilla Marques , De Vasconcelos Neto Carlos Frederico Alves , De Albuquerque Ulysses Paulino
Published: May 2014

Neste estudo, buscou-se informações sobre conhecimento e usos tradicionais de Myracrodruon urundeuva,uma espécie ameaçada, em duas comunidades rurais no município de Soledade, estado da Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil.Foram realizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas com chefes domiciliares, 16 em Barrocas e 28 em Cachoeira, procurandodistinguir os usos atuais dos usos potenciais. Com a finalidade de se coletar informações demográficas da população de M.urundeuva, foram realizados levantamentos, registrando todos os indivíduos da espécie com circunferência no nível dosolo > 3 cm usos da planta foram distribuídos em sete categorias (subdivididos em madeireiros e não madeireiros,principalmente para construção): forragem, combustível, construção, medicinal, tecnologia, veneno-abortivo e veterinário.Os informantes evidenciaram que coletam ora nas áreas de vegetação de suas propriedades ora nas fazendas vizinhas. Nacomunidade de Cachoeira, foram registradas mais citações de uso por homens (89 citações) do que por mulheres (65),enquanto em Barrocas, houve uma equiparidade nesse conhecimento. Nossos resultados sugerem que a notória popularidadee o uso de M. urundeuva vem ameaçando a espécie de extinção local.
Três espécies de Chaetomium (Chaetomiaceae – Ascomycota) da região semiárida do Brasil
Authors: Barbosa Flavia R. , Raja Huzefa A. , Shearer Carol A. , Gusmão Luis F. P.
Published: May 2014

During surveys for decomposer ascomycetes of plant debris, three previously described species of Chaetomium were collected: C. funicola, C. homopilatum and C. longicolleum. Descriptions, taxonomic comments, geographical distributions, and illustrations are presented for the species.
Sinopsis desde chile: zonas de contacto / zonas de contexto
Authors: Bianchi Soledad
Published: May 2014

La primera parte de este ensayo enfoca, especialmente, algunas expresiones artístico-culturales, realizadas en Santiago de Chile, evidenciando que éstas pueden volverse «zonas de contacto», tanto por cercanía como por disrupción, en una ciudad y en un país e, incluso, podrían pensarse como intercambio más allá de limitadas fronteras nacionales para que la globalización supere los frecuentes –y privilegiados– acercamientos económicos. Una segunda sección, diferente en tono y forma de la anterior, está constituida por varias crónicas que muestran rasgos del contexto socio-político-económico-cultural que rodea el ambiente de protestas y movilizaciones que ha caracterizado la realidad chilena de este 2011.