bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mentorship in action for healthcare assistants
Authors: Hayes Catherine 
Published: May 2014

The process of mentorship has become one of the most topical issues in healthcare practice in recent years. This article addresses the contextual significance of the mentoring relationship alongside the core developments in relationship between the mentor and mentee. Emphasis is placed on the need to manage time effectively. The definition of what professional practice within the context of mentorship actually means is also explored. The implications of effective communication to the mentoring relationship are also discussed and key characteristics of a mutually beneficial mentorship relationship are defined. The documentation and record-keeping process is also highlighted as a mechanism by which processes of governance can be adhered to in formalising the mentoring relationship. The article ends with a brief resumé of how feedback on the mentorship process can provide the degree of critical reflexivity necessary for professional development as a healthcare assistant and also the significance of a contextual significance analysis of what has been achieved during the relationship.
Soothing sounds: reducing agitation with music therapy
Authors: Clare Moira 
Published: May 2014

People with dementia may display agitated behaviours that staff may not understand. At St Peter's House, a person-centred approach is taken and behaviours are seen as a resident's attempt to communicate. Rather than take a pharmacological route—only used when all else has failed—the care home adopts a range of non-pharmacological methods and complementary therapies to provide stimulation and reduce agitation. One of the most popular therapies among the residents is music, whether recorded or live, especially when it includes them in singsong sessions. Using various measurement tools has shown that this music therapy can increase wellbeing and interaction of these residents and reduce stress and ‘problem’ behaviours, without pharmacological intervention.
Business process re-engineering: lost hope or learning opportunity?
Authors: Powell Alison E. , Davies Huw T.O. 
Published: May 2014

In the 1990s, business process re-engineering (BPR) sparkled for a while as a means of transforming health service performance. While many of the implementation projects report more modest gains, there remains much to learn from the approach. The recent emphasis on developing patient-focused services has seen a re-emergence of some of the key ideas of BPR. This article argues that we should reflect on the learning experience offered by BPR experiments in the NHS to inform current modernisation reforms.
GPs' Personal Development Plans: appraisal & revalidation
Authors: Rughani Amar 
Published: May 2014

In the near future GPs will face the introduction of appraisal, following which they will be required to meet the needs of revalidation. How doctors will prepare for these challenges has yet to be determined, but a mechanism that is coherent and feasible is urgently required. Using the experience of GP tutors in Sheffield, where Personal Development Plans (PDP) have been successfully introduced, a model based on the PDP is described.
Forum - ‘Health Contracts’ for the NHS?
Authors: Cowper Andy 
Published: May 2014

This is the first of a new series, taking topical issues and submitting them to debate by e-mails among interested parties and commentators. The Government's recent proposal of ‘health contracts’ between GPs and patients is our first subject in the series. ( http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/2958148.stm )
Is it real? Unpicking the spending review
Authors: Appleby John 
Published: May 2014

First some very precise numbers and then a joke. So, the pledge has been fulfilled by the narrowest whisker of a cigarette paper: a real annual average increase of one tenth of 1% each year. To be brutally and forensically accurate, the increase actually less than 0.1%: 0.084% to be precise—just over eight hundredths of 1%.
Patients and professionals' views of the patient's role in spinal cord injury rehabilitation
Authors: Collis Pellatt Glynis 
Published: May 2014

Rehabilitation is defined in the National Service Framework for Long-Term Conditions as a multidisciplinary process. Partnership between health professionals and patients is a key component of the government's modernization of the NHS. Research has been undertaken to define the roles and functions of health professionals but there has been little investigation of the patient's role in the rehabilitation process. The aim of this study was to investigate patients' and professionals' perceptions of the patient's role in spinal cord injury rehabilitation. A qualitative approach using ethnographic techniques was adopted. Purposive sampling was used to select participants in a spinal cord injury unit in England. The sample comprised 30 professionals and 20 patients. Inductive analysis enabled patterns and themes to emerge from the data using a variant of the constant comparison method. A model of the patient's role was identified and tension was found between the concepts of ‘taking control’, ‘working in partnership’ and ‘doing as you are told’. An understanding of the complexity of the patient's role in spinal cord injury rehabilitation may help professionals support patients in an exacting role.
Rehabilitation after traumatic brain injury: A survey of clients' needs and service provision in one English region
Authors: Abelson-Mitchell Nadine , Watkins Mary J 
Published: May 2014

Aim: The aim of this article is to report the findings of a study were: (1) to assess the current needs of survivors of traumatic brain injury and (2) to assess current service provision for these clients. Design: A questionnaire survey design was used. Sample and setting data were collected from 31 service users and 67 service and 29 education providers in South West England in 2002-03. Results: The findings showed that up to 10 years after the injury, all respondents experienced at least one related health problem and 13 were taking medication for pain and/or depression. Only one had returned to their pre-injury occupation, and only eight had been assessed for return to work or education. Service provision by charitable organizations covered a variety of specific services for this client group, including life skills and leisure activities. Some also offered informal training and help with seeking work. Eight education providers had a total of 42 students with traumatic brain injury, but only one offered specific courses for this group. Access facilities varied from full in eight cases to none in five. Conclusions: The findings suggest that survivors of traumatic brain injury should have regular, comprehensive and multidisciplinary needs assessments to ensure that they achieve their potential in terms of health status and employment, with appropriate educational provision if this is needed. A ‘one stop’ approach would be ideal. Most importantly, continued follow-up by relevant professionals, working as part of a coherent rehabilitation team, should be undertaken to ensure that all clients are maintaining or advancing their potential. Further research will be needed to evaluate whether the National Service Framework for Long-term Conditions will lead to improved services and health outcomes for survivors of traumatic brain injury.
Sacral nerve stimulation for treatment of refractory urinary urge incontinence: A review
Authors: Fitzpatrick Maria 
Published: May 2014

Urge incontinence is common in post-stroke and neurology patients as a result of overactive bladder. It is usually resistant to available treatments such as biofeedback, pharmacotherapy and behavioural therapies. A number of studies have proven the efficacy and safety of sacral nerve stimulation in the treatment of refractory urinary incontinence. A systematic literature search was undertaken to identify randomized controlled trials on the efficacy of sacral nerve stimulation in refractory cases of urinary incontinence. Two trials fulfilled the criteria for inclusion in this review. The meta-analysis indicated that sacral nerve stimulation is an efficient means of treating refractory urinary incontinence. Although the review of limited data suggests that sacral nerve stimulation is an effective and safe treatment for refractory urge incontinence, further research is needed to strengthen these findings.
Motor neurone disease: Carers' experiences, behaviour and coping methods
Authors: Gent Carol , McGarry Julie , Pinnington Lorraine 
Published: May 2014

Background: Motor neurone disease (MND) is a neurodegenerative life-limiting condition. The literature suggests that carers are potentially at risk of stress, depression and anxiety. Aim: To explore the experiences of carers to identify the coping strategies adopted and potential implications for service provision. Sample and setting: A purposive sample of six family members recruited from one community outreach rehabilitation team. Methods: A qualitative approach involving semi-structured interviews. Analysis: An iterative approach undertaken to data analysis informed by the analytical hierarchy. Findings: Three main themes emerged from the data: support for carers, coping strategies and the nature of the caring role. These offer an account of the experiences of carers. Conclusions: Findings suggest that health and social care professionals need to balance objectivity with an empathetic approach. They should be willing to share the limits of their knowledge. Flexible management procedures are needed when developing strategies or plans for continuing professional development activities.
What young people know about epilepsy and how they are affected by recurrent seizures
Authors: Erichsen Torunn , Hamilton Glenys , Nakken Karl Otto , Smeby Nina Aarhus 
Published: May 2014

This study's aim was to investigate what young people with epilepsy know about their disorder and how epilepsy and epilepsy treatment affects their lives. By means of a self-reporting questionnaire, information about their knowledge of epilepsy, clinical, demographic, and psychosocial data were collected. The subjects were recruited at a summer camp for young people with epilepsy in Norway. Forty-five people aged 14–30 years volunteered to participate. The majority of those questioned reported that epilepsy and its treatment had a negative impact on their daily lives and their social adjustment. Approximately 50% reported that suffering from epilepsy made them feel useless and more dependent on others; 39% felt they were a burden to their family and friends; and 40% experienced a moderate or high degree of stigmatization. However, none of those with a high level of epilepsy knowledge reported that they felt stigma. Findings from this study emphasize the need for continued education and support for young people with epilepsy. In order to prevent psychological and psychosocial problems it is important to include both medical and psychosocial sessions in educational programmes.
Experiences of people with Parkinson's disease and their carers of a specialist nursing service
Authors: Cook Neal , McNamee Deirdre , McFetridge Brian , Deeny Pat 
Published: May 2014

The results of the second phase of a research study into the perceived role of the Parkinson's disease (PD) nurse specialist in an area health board are presented and discussed in this article. Aim: The aim of the second phase of the study was to further clarify the role of the PD nurse specialist and make recommendations for enhancing the role and improving services to those with PD and their families. Method: Questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were employed to determine the perceptions of the role of the PD nurse specialist. One hundred people with PD and 100 carers were sent questionnaires relating to different aspects of the role of the PD nurse specialist. Eight carers and 8 people with PD were interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative data analysed for emerging themes and concepts. Findings: The results illustrate the pivotal role that the PD nurse specialist has in enabling people with PD and their carers to live with the condition. Results are used to develop recommendations for future development of the role.
Development of a support group for stroke survivors and their carers and/or families
Authors: Slark Julia , Makahamadze Christwishes , Catangui Elmer , Stear Sally , Amorim Alcina 
Published: May 2014

Aims: To develop a focussed support group for stroke survivors, their carers and families using participant's opinions to design and develop the service. Methods: All patients with a diagnosis of stroke or at high risk of transient ischaemic attack (TIA) and their carers were invited to attend a monthly meeting. A structured programme was created for each session. All participants recruited have been seen as either inpatients or outpatients at Imperial College healthcare NHS trust Results: 84 participants have to date attended the Stroke Support Group over 6 months. The participants were made up of ex-patients, carers, high-risk TIA patients and inpatients. Conclusions: Patients were not afraid to speak out as the groups were not too big. Illustration of information in Powerpoint pictures was useful for clarification and better understanding. Patients found the doctors' session most informative. Patients found it worthwhile to share similar experiences. Inpatients generally appreciated receiving information in a setting different from the ward. Recommendations: Too much statistical information on slides was not favourable in view of low concentration span. Future plans: Plans to provide a similar service at the other sites in the trust are underway. The provision of an evening session to benefit patients and carers that work is being reconsidered. A clinical nurse specialist-led surgery for ‘drop-in’ clinics in the evenings on the stroke wards is to be considered to provide support for inpatients and their carers planning discharge.
Midwives' burnout and continuity of care
Authors: Sandall Jane 
Published: May 2014

This study aimed to examine the impact of Changing Childbirth (Department of Health, 1993) on midwives' work and personal lives. It reports findings from a multiple site case study of community-based maternity care. Each site represented a model of continuity of carer along a continuum from complete one-to-one continuity to continuity within a team. The three sites represented the traditional model of GP-attached community midwives, a community team and a community-based group practice. Three key themes emerged from the data relating to sustainable practice, the avoidance of burnout and the provision of flexible woman-centred care. These were occupational autonomy, social support and developing meaningful relationships with women. Control over work and continuity of care are as important to midwives in how well they balance their work and home life as they are to women experiencing childbirth. Models of care such as personal caseloads that incorporate these factors may be more sustainable in terms of less burnout and greater personal accomplishment than team caseloads.
Partner involvement in smoking cessation
Authors: Holmes Carla 
Published: May 2014

This paper reports the findings from a study which investigated the influence a partner's smoking status can have on the ability of a woman to stop smoking during pregnancy. The prevalence of smoking during pregnancy and the potential for partner involvement in smoking cessation in Leeds is also investigated. The findings indicate that women whose smoking partner stops smoking for the pregnancy are more likely to give up themselves, compared to women whose partners continue to smoke (adjusted odds ratio 6.3, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.2–34.6; P=0.034). The study revealed the prevalence of smoking during pregnancy to be 20% (95% CI, 12–28%; P<0.05). However, 65% (95% CI 56–74%; P<0.05) of the partners who smoke were unable to attend antenatal clinics where smoking cessation intervention takes place. The high prevalence of smoking during pregnancy reveals the continued need to seek more innovative approaches to the promotion of smoking cessation in pregnancy. Partner involvement could potentially be of paramount importance for the success of such intervention during pregnancy and long-term smoking cessation. Before effective intervention can be designed to target the partners, the presence of partners at antenatal clinics requires investigation, in particular their levels of attendance and the reasons for any absence.
Role modelling in the clinical workplace
Authors: Armstrong Nicola 
Published: May 2014

To ensure pre-registered midwifery students are fit for practice, it is recommended that when students attend their clinical placements they are allocated to work alongside mentors who have undertaken mentorship training and, more recently have fulfilled additional criteria, that ensures they are fully qualified (Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC), 2006). This article aims to assist midwives who are considering enrolling on a mentorship programme. The paper illustrates how Bandura's (1977) model of behavioural and social learning theories can be used to facilitate student learning with an emphasis on using role modelling as a teaching and learning strategy. A clinical scenario is used to demonstrate the link between theory and practice. It is also suggested that existing mentors should be updated on the value of role modelling and the application of additional teaching and learning strategies that support students' learning within the clinical setting.
Advanced intrapartum monitoring
Authors: Royle Denise 
Published: May 2014

The most dangerous journey we ever undertake is when we are born. Fatalities in high-risk labour can be reduced if we are brave enough to embrace improved technology. The latest figures for infant mortality indicate that there is still room for improvement. It is with this in mind that fetal pulse oximetry should be an important tool in the delivery suite. The Nonin ‘Fetal Sat’ pulse oximeter incorporates important technological improvements when compared with earlier comparable products. The ‘FetalSat’ is a totally affordable product, which can assist the clinician and midwife, and has the potential to reduce neonatal and maternal morbidity.
Power of birth: uncontrollable urges and the transition to motherhood
Authors: Kightley Robb 
Published: May 2014

As part of a final-year show for the BSc(Hons) Fine Art at Oxford Brookes University, a series of paintings attracted a lot of attention, particularly on the part of the author who is a registered midwife and midwife teacher.The intentions behind the creation of the canvasses were explored in an interview with the artist and were analysed in light of birth practices in the developed world and feminist theories.The main themes identified were: the nature and experience of labour in the developed world with its potential to position labouring women as risks to themselves; the fetus and neonate; and the economics of the health-care organization. In societies where birth is removed from the home, expectations are constructed from representations, few of which depict women as powerful and capable of birthing. The animal–human hybrids of the canvasses highlighted anachronistic discourse of the hierarchy of man, woman, animal, while also reframing the essential act of reproduction as potent and powerful.
Persuasion with pictures: piloting a breastfeeding image aimed at children
Authors: Ireland Jillian , van Teijlingen Edwin 
Published: May 2014

Ideas about infant feeding are formed earlier than previously assumed. School-aged children have thoughts on how they might feed their future babies. Based on inoculation theory, an image, was designed and pilot-tested which would promote breastfeeding to children as a ‘natural’ behaviour at an age when other influences have not pervaded their consciousness. Delegates to a breastfeeding conference were invited to view the image; asked for positive and negative feelings about it; and to rate their overall feelings. Demographic data were gathered. Written comments were analysed thematically. More negative than positive comments were made. Those giving more extreme ratings on the quantitative questions also made more extreme comments in the open-ended sections. Most negatives were about the art work itself rather than the health promotion message. Using art work in health promotion has specific strengths and weaknesses which include, for example, that art stimulates reactions. These reactions are themselves influenced by personal tastes, culture and the emotions it may or may not evoke. More generally, pilot studies using a mixed-methods approach can help improve the design of breastfeeding images and, consequently, that of health promotion interventions.
Keeping practice up-to-date: review of midwives rules consultation
Authors: Lyne Michelle , Forrester Mandy , Homeyard Claire 
Published: May 2014

The current Midwives rules and standards were published in 2004 and the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) are currently reviewing them to ensure they are still robust and relevant. At the NMC, we have a responsibility to ensure all rules, standards and guidance affecting nurses and midwives are as effective and up-to-date as possible. Consultations are an essential part of our decision-making process; the NMC will consider all views and factors before making its decisions. By listening to stakeholders, the NMC can fulfil its duty of care to the public by improving professional standards and practice in nursing and midwifery. The consultation, which is only considering the midwives rules, will continue until the end of July and anyone who wishes to take part can do so on the website: www.nmc-uk.org. ] The standards will be updated in 2011.
Delivery method choice in the South African private sector
Authors: James Sindiwe , Wibbelink Margreet , Muthige Noluthando 
Published: May 2014

The high caesarean rate in South Africa is five times higher than the World Health Organisation recommended rate. This is a matter of concern and urgently needs to be investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to find out why South Africans have such a high caesarean section delivery rate by exploring decisions made with regard to the choice of mode of birth. This study found that in South Africa, the advice comes from the obstetrician not the midwife. The pregnant women in this study did not have antenatal health education related to the available different modes of delivery and were denied the opportunity to make an informed decision despite them having attended the antenatal care clinic, being well educated and able to understand concepts explained to them. It was found that the private doctors were still in the forefront of the patient pathway and that the midwife was often left to prepare the woman for the caesarean section even though they perhaps did not agree.