Journal articles on the topic 'Allied health assistants'
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Carless, Mary P. "THE ALLIED HEALTH ASSISTANTS‘ COURSE." Australian Occupational Therapy Journal 26, no. 2 (August 27, 2010): 74–79. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1440-1630.1979.tb00693.x.
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Stute, Michelle, Andrea Hurwood, Julie Hulcombe, and Pim Kuipers. "Defining the role and scope of practice of allied health assistants within Queensland public health services." Australian Health Review 37, no. 5 (2013): 602. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah13042.
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Background The uptake and utilisation of allied health assistants as professional support staff has been variable across disciplines and jurisdictions. Although they are potentially very important in the current health workforce context, there is little agreement on their roles or the most suitable methods to define these roles. Method Based on a review of literature, existing role descriptions and focus groups, a Delphi survey process was undertaken. This process comprising three rounds of discussion and clarification via email, with between 107 and 188 participants, was undertaken to define and establish consensus on allied health assistant roles at three levels. Results Three cycles of editing, qualitative feedback and rating of agreement with statements resulted in substantial clarification of roles and a meaningful degree of consensus regarding the role and scope of such positions. High levels of agreement were not reached for more high-level or contested clinical tasks. Conclusions The Delphi process resulted in key tasks and roles being defined and contentious aspects clearly identified. The process facilitated engagement with workforce members most closely affected by these questions. It was a useful means of drawing together the opinions of the workforce and informing implementation trials to follow. What is known about the topic? Allied health assistants are important members of health teams. Current developments in health services necessitate considerable growth in these positions. The role and scope of practice of allied health assistants is poorly defined and varies between disciplines, settings and facilities, which threatens the establishment of these positions. What does this paper add? This study describes a methodology used to define the role and scope of practice of allied health support staff, which resulted in high levels of consensus and documentation of concerns regarding these positions. Tasks and roles have been defined at different allied health assistant position levels. What are the implications for practitioners? The definition of roles and establishment of scope of practice of emerging positions can be substantially advanced by well researched and widely consultative methods. For more advanced allied health assistant positions to be effectively implemented, tasks relating to treatment, leadership, documentation, assessment and team participation must be clearly elucidated and agreed.
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Pearce, Claire, and Leanne Pagett. "Advanced allied health assistants: an emerging workforce." Australian Health Review 39, no. 3 (2015): 260. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah14253.
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Objective Nationally and internationally there is work underway to continue to advance the scope of practice of allied health assistants (AHA). The advanced role requires additional training and competency development, as well as significant clinical experience. To build on the evidence relating to advanced scope AHAs, ACT Health undertook a project to explore the potential for the development of the local AHA workforce. This paper provides an overview of the project. Methods The potential for advanced AHAs in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) was assessed using literature reviews, consultation with other services working with advanced AHAs and interviews with local allied health managers and assistants. Results A role for advanced AHAs within the ACT workforce was recommended, along with the need to further develop the AHA governance structure and AHA training packages and to undertake more research into the AHA workforce. Conclusion AHAs make a positive contribution to the delivery of effective, responsive, consumer-focused healthcare. The advanced AHA role provides further opportunities to enhance the flexibility of allied health services while also providing a career structure for this growing workforce.
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Somerville, Lisa, Annette Davis, Sarah Milne, Desiree Terrill, and Kathleen Philip. "Exploration of an allied health workforce redesign model: quantifying the work of allied health assistants in a community workforce." Australian Health Review 42, no. 4 (2018): 469. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah16266.
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The Victorian Assistant Workforce Model (VAWM) enables a systematic approach for the identification and quantification of work that can be delegated from allied health professionals (AHPs) to allied health assistants (AHAs). The aim of the present study was to explore the effect of implementation of VAWM in the community and ambulatory health care setting. Data captured using mixed methods from allied health professionals working across the participating health services enabled the measurement of opportunity for workforce redesign in the community and ambulatory allied health workforce. A total of 1112 AHPs and 135 AHAs from the 27 participating organisations took part in the present study. AHPs identified that 24% of their time was spent undertaking tasks that could safely be delegated to an appropriately qualified and supervised AHA. This equates to 6837 h that could be redirected to advanced and expanded AHP practice roles or expanded patient-centred service models. The VAWM demonstrates potential for more efficient implementation of assistant workforce roles across allied health. Data outputs from implementation of the VAWM are vital in informing strategic planning and sustainability of workforce change. A more efficient and effective workforce promotes service delivery by the right person, in the right place, at the right time. What is known about this topic? There are currently workforce shortages that are predicted to grow across the allied health workforce. Ensuring that skill mix is optimal is one way to address these shortages. Matching the right task to right worker will also enable improved job satisfaction for both allied health assistants and allied health professionals. Workforce redesign efforts are more effective when there is strong data to support the redesign. What does this paper add? This paper builds on a previous paper by Somerville et al. with a case study applying the workforce redesign model to a community and ambulatory health care setting. It provides evidence that this workforce redesign model enables data to be collected to identify the opportunity for redesign in the allied health workforce in this clinical setting. What are the implications for practitioners? There are career pathways and opportunity for growth in the allied health assistant workforce in the community and ambulatory health care setting. These opportunities will need to be coupled with the development of supervision and delegation skills in the allied health professional workforce to ensure that an integrated workforce is built to provide optimal clinical care in the community and ambulatory setting.
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Strong, Graham D. "Allied Health Assistants: Their Training, Role and Attitudes." Australian Occupational Therapy Journal 30, no. 3 (August 27, 2010): 117–23. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1440-1630.1983.tb01432.x.
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Snowdon, David A., Peggy Vincent, Michele L. Callisaya, Taya A. Collyer, Yi Tian Wang, and Nicholas F. Taylor. "Feasibility of allied health assistant management of people with acute hip fracture: protocol for a feasibility randomised controlled trial." BMJ Open 11, no. 11 (November 2021): e054298. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2021-054298.
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IntroductionGuidelines for hip fracture care state that patients with hip fracture should be mobilised on the day after surgery and at least once a day thereafter. However, compliance with these guidelines is poor. One approach that would assist physiotherapists to meet mobility guidelines after hip fracture is to delegate the provision of daily mobilisation to allied health assistants under their supervision. Therefore, we plan to conduct a randomised controlled trial to determine the feasibility of an allied health assistant providing daily inpatient rehabilitation to patients with hip fracture.Methods and analysisUsing a parallel group randomised controlled design with one-to-one allocation, participants will be randomly allocated to an experimental group (allied health assistant management) or a comparison group (physiotherapist management). Inclusion criteria are: adult with diagnosis of hip fracture; inpatient in acute hospital; walked independently pre-hip fracture and able to communicate in conversational English. The experimental group will receive routine physiotherapy rehabilitation, including daily mobilisation, from an allied health assistant following initial physiotherapist assessment. The comparison group will receive routine rehabilitation from a physiotherapist. The primary outcome will be the feasibility of allied health assistant management of patients with hip fracture. Feasibility will be determined using the following areas of focus in Bowen’s feasibility framework: acceptability (patient satisfaction), demand (proportion of patients who participate), implementation (time allied health assistant/physiotherapist spends with participant, occasions of service) and practicality (cost, adverse events). Staff involved in the implementation of allied health assistant care will be interviewed to explore their perspectives on feasibility. Secondary outcomes include compliance with daily mobilisation guidelines, discharge destination, hospital readmission, falls, functional activity and length of stay. We aim to recruit 50 participants. Descriptive statistics will be used to describe feasibility and mobilisation rates will be calculated using Cox proportional hazards regression to compare compliance with mobilisation guidelines.Ethics and disseminationEthics approval was obtained from the Peninsula Health human research ethics committee (HREC/63 005/PH-2020). The findings will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations.Trail registration numberAustralian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry; ACTRN12620000877987; Pre-results.
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Reddy, J. "A survey of the role of allied mental health services in learning disabilities at Lanchester Road Hospital, Durham." European Psychiatry 26, S2 (March 2011): 900. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/s0924-9338(11)72605-0.
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IntroductionAllied mental health services play important role in patients’ care in Learning Disabilities as they are more in contact with the patients. Their knowledge about common side effects of medication and relevance of routine blood investigations help Clinicians to provide appropriate care and support.ObjectiveTo ascertain the knowledge of Allied mental health services about common side effects of medication and relevance of routine blood investigations.MethodologySurvey questionnaire was distributed to staff between November 09 and January 10.The questions included about the common side effects of Lithium, Insulin, High dose Antidepressants, High dose Antipsychotics and Anticoagulant Medication. Relevance of Routine Blood Tests and Blood Pressure Monitoring were also asked. Number of questionnaire distributed - 60. Number of Respondents -30. Responses were collected anonymously.ResultsRespondent Classification -Registered Nurses- 4, Nursing Assistants- 12, Care Assistants- 10, Associate Practioner- 1, Deputy Charge Nurses- 2, Occupational Therapist -1.Of the Registered Nurses, Associate Practioners, Deputy Charge Nurses the results were 100%. With the Nursing Assistant- 25% (3), Care Assistant- 10% (1) and OT was aware of Routine blood tests and BP.The Nursing Assistants and Care Assistants were aware of one side effect for Lithium, Clozapine, Anticoagulants and Insulin. They were not aware of side effects of High dose Antidepressants & High dose Antipsychotics. The awareness of relevance of Routine Blood Tests and Blood Pressure Monitoring was 80% and 90% respectively.Conclusions•Arrange educational meetings to the Support workers•Conduct the survey in a year's time
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O’Brien, Rachael, Nicole Byrne, Rebecca Mitchell, and Alison Ferguson. "Rural speech-language pathologists’ perceptions of working with allied health assistants." International Journal of Speech-Language Pathology 15, no. 6 (February 8, 2013): 613–22. http://dx.doi.org/10.3109/17549507.2012.759623.
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Mickan, Sharon, Xanthe Golenko, and Nicholas Buys. "Educational needs and workplace opportunities of allied health assistants: A qualitative pilot." Focus on Health Professional Education: A Multi-Professional Journal 19, no. 3 (November 27, 2018): 52. http://dx.doi.org/10.11157/fohpe.v19i3.251.
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Sarigiovannis, P., S. Jowett, B. Saunders, N. Corp, and A. Bishop. "Clinical and cost-effectiveness and perceptions of delegation by Allied Health Professionals to Allied Health Assistants: A mixed methods systematic review." Physiotherapy 113 (December 2021): e119-e120. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.physio.2021.10.104.
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Nancarrow, Susan A., Anna Moran, and Rebecca Sullivan. "Mechanisms for the effective implementation of an allied health assistant trainee: a qualitative study of a speech language pathology assistant." Australian Health Review 39, no. 1 (2015): 101. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah14053.
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Objective This paper explores the impact and mechanisms for successful implementation of a speech language pathology assistant (SLPA) role into a rehabilitation setting using a traineeship approach. Methods Multiple data sources were used, including interviews with key stakeholders, documentary evidence and a workload audit. Results The SLPA role increased clinical service capacity by 28 h per week across the service and required a total of 3 h per week of supervision input (the equivalent of 38 min per speech and language pathologist (SLP)). The SLPA used non-clinical time for training and administration. Mechanisms that facilitated the implementation of the SLPA role were: support for existing staff; formal knowledge and skills in training; consultation and engagement; access to a competency framework; close working with the registered training organisation; clearly defined role and delegation boundaries; clear supervision structures; confidence in own role; supportive organisational culture; vision for expansion of the role; engaging the SLPs in training and development; and a targeted recruitment approach. Conclusion The development and implementation of a new trainee SLPA role using a traineeship approach required a large amount of supervision and training input from the SLPs. However, it was perceived that these efforts were offset by the increased service capacity provided by the introduction of a trainee role and the high levels of satisfaction with the new role. What is known about this topic? Efficient delegation to assistants requires supervising staff to have a clear understanding of the roles and experience of assistants. There has been little evaluation of assistant training models to date. What does this paper add? The net benefit of an allied health assistant in speech pathology far outweighs the input required to provide training and supervision. The paper identifies a range of mechanisms to facilitate the implementation and efficient use of the assistant role. What are the implications for practitioners? The implementation of assistant roles requires support for both the assistant and the supervising staff member. Engaging the supervising staff in training the assistant enhances role understanding and effective delegation to the assistant staff member. Although the role development requires a great deal of local investment, there is potential for more efficient implementation of new roles through sharing of resources, such as competencies, assessments and training tools.
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Quick, Julie. "Non-medical surgical assistants: From surgeon’s mates to skilfully trained nurses and allied health professionals." Journal of Perioperative Practice 32, no. 6 (May 28, 2022): 135. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/17504589221095783.
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Somerville, Lisa, Annette Davis, Andrea L. Elliott, Desiree Terrill, Nicole Austin, and Kathleen Philip. "Building allied health workforce capacity: a strategic approach to workforce innovation." Australian Health Review 39, no. 3 (2015): 264. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah14211.
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Objective The aim of the present study was to identify areas where allied health assistants (AHAs) are not working to their full scope of practice in order to improve the effectiveness of the allied health workforce. Methods Qualitative data collected via focus groups identified suitable AHA tasks and a quantitative survey with allied health professionals (AHPs) measured the magnitude of work the current AHP workforce spends undertaking these tasks. Results Quantification survey results indicate that Victoria’s AHP workforce spends up to 17% of time undertaking tasks that could be delegated to an AHA who has relevant training and adequate supervision. Over half this time is spent on clinical tasks. Conclusions The skills of AHAs are not being optimally utilised. Significant opportunity exists to reform the current allied health workforce. Such reform should result in increased capacity of the workforce to meet future demands. What is known about the topic? Increasing skill shortages across Australia’s health workforce necessitates that the capabilities of all healthcare team members should be used optimally. AHA roles are an important and growing response to current health workforce needs. Increasing workforce capacity will ensure the right health workers are matched to the right task by skill, experience and expertise. What does this paper add? This paper presents a model that assists services to identify tasks suitable for delegation to an AHA by an AHP. The model is unique because it describes a process that quantifies the need for AHAs and it has been successfully implemented in rural, regional and metropolitan health services in Victoria. What are the implications for practitioners? Working collaboratively, with executive support, will lead to a sustainable and integrated approach to support workforce capacity building. Altering the skill mix of healthcare teams through increasing the role of AHAs has benefits for AHPs, patients and the healthcare system.
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Barrett, Catherine, Catherine Stephens, Julie Hulcombe, and Brian McEvoy. "Profiling the allied health staffing of Queensland Health inpatient general rehabilitation units." Australian Health Review 39, no. 1 (2015): 89. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah13242.
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Objective The purpose of this paper was to profile staffing levels for allied health (AH) professional and support staff in Queensland Health inpatient general rehabilitation services (at a given point-in-time) and compare them against established profession-specific standards and guidelines in order to provide a reference for future workforce planning for these services. Methods A statewide analysis of AH staffing in Queensland Health inpatient general rehabilitation services was undertaken during June–August 2011. Reported full-time equivalent positions (FTE) were compared to several established national and international benchmarks. Patient activity data was used to calculate the average length of stay (ALOS) and Functional Independence Measure (FIM) scores on admission. Results Sixteen facilities reported 202 FTE for a total of 466 general rehabilitation beds, with a resultant average workforce ratio of 0.43 FTE/bed. While several professional groups within specific services met established benchmarks, the majority failed to reach recommended staffing ratios. More than half the workforce (53%) was entry-level or consolidating clinicians. The FTE/bed ratios were compared against both patient ALOS and FIM scores on admission and showed a poor correlation. Conclusion Across all included services statewide, there was significant variance in AH staffing levels and diversity in skill mix for inpatient general rehabilitation services. What is known about the topic? The AH workforce faces several challenges to delivering effective, efficient and responsive services including balancing the high and escalating demand for services with managing staff costs. While several different workload capacity measures have been used successfully for medical and nursing professions, there is currently little published evidence about effective workforce allocation for AH professionals (AHPs) in rehabilitation settings. What does this paper add? This paper describes AH staffing levels in Queensland Health inpatient general rehabilitation services. It includes the outcome of analysis of data collected from AHPs and allied health assistants (AHAs) and comparison with established benchmarks. What are the implications for practitioners? The workforce ratios identified can assist with future workforce planning when introducing new services and reviewing service delivery models. They should be considered in conjunction with other relevant standards and planning tools, and it is recommended that further work be undertaken to investigate links between staffing levels and patient outcomes, as many of the current benchmarks rely heavily on professional opinion.
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Thomas, Horatio R., Sumi Sinha, Lisa Ni, Christina Phuong, Melody Xu, Jie Jane Chen, Gary Walker, and Steve Braunstein. "Multi-institutional Expansion of a Longitudinal Radiation Oncology Curriculum for Medical Assistants and Allied Health Professionals (OnC MAP)." International Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics 116, no. 3 (July 2023): e11. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.03.024.
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Bathory, David S. "Relational Dynamics and Health Economics." International Journal of Applied Behavioral Economics 3, no. 1 (January 2014): 36–50. http://dx.doi.org/10.4018/ijabe.2014010103.
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Primary care physicians' and allied healing professionals are overwhelmed with greater demands to provide complex care within business structures that either mandate high volume or exorbitant fees for service in order to support healthcare needs or sustain their livelihood. Statistics within the USA note that 40 to 50 percent of primary care physicians practice consists of complicated care. There are continued decreases within the USA of medical doctors who enter general practice and most choose to enter specialties where they are able to dictate their hours of availability and are reimbursed at a higher rate for services. The exception lies in psychiatry and pediatrics, where there is a shortage of providers and low fees for service. Models that have been proposed to alleviate issues related to these shortages include models of integrated health care, where physicians provide holistic care or partner seamlessly with others to provide total care at a single location. Physician extenders have been developed as an alternative where Master's Level Nurses and Physician Assistants are allowed to practice in the same setting and under the supervision of the licensed physician to deliver care. The intent of the physician extender is to allow the physician to spend greater time with more complicated cases and for the assistants to provide routine care. The issue becomes differentiating when a patient presents with a routine issue but actually requires complex interventions. When traditional physical medicine is combined with a need for psychological counseling the needs are complex, and medical doctors or physician extenders are provided with only a three month rotation in psychological diagnosis and interventions. Both socialized non-socialized medicine do not have a practice model in which they provide adequate care and holistic healing. This paper proposes a new model of providing holistic healthcare based upon relational dynamics in an economically sound manner.
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Gossman, Elaine R. "Endoscopy by Nonphysicians." Canadian Journal of Gastroenterology 21, no. 1 (2007): 17–18. http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2007/258760.
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In 1945, Henry J Kaiser organized a group of physicians to provide health care for shipyard workers and their families. His foundation, Kaiser Permanente (USA), has developed into a prepaid health plan facility serving 8.4 million members in nine states and in Washington, DC, within the United States. It aspires to provide high quality, affordable, integrated health care within an organized, efficient system. A focus on preventive care in a cost-effective manner is a high priority. The Kaiser Permanente northwest region (covering northwest Oregon and southwest Washington) serves nearly one-half of a million members. Our region has utilized nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) (allied health care providers) in a variety of capacities for many years. The present paper reviews the background and current status of their role in endoscopy.
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Schwarz, Maria, Elizabeth C. Ward, Petrea Cornwell, Anne Coccetti, and Naomi Kalapac. "Evaluating the Feasibility and Validity of Using Trained Allied Health Assistants to Assist in Mealtime Monitoring of Dysphagic Patients." Dysphagia 34, no. 3 (September 26, 2018): 350–59. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s00455-018-9947-y.
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Gray, Toni. "Safety huddle in a community nursing setting." British Journal of Community Nursing 25, no. 9 (September 2, 2020): 446–50. http://dx.doi.org/10.12968/bjcn.2020.25.9.446.
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A safety huddle is a meeting held among district nurses, allied health professionals, specialist nurses, administrative staff, community matrons and healthcare assistants, also known as the wider multidisciplinary team. This article aims to identify and discuss the importance of safety huddles within a community nursing team. The author, a Specialist Community Practitioner District Nurse (SCPDN), explores why safety huddles were introduced and the implications of staff and patient safety if a safety huddle is not performed. The article also discusses the role of the SCPDN, how patient harm is sustained when communication failures occur within a team, new technologies implemented into practice and the implementation of safety huddles electronically.
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Moran, Anna, Susan A. Nancarrow, and Pamela Enderby. "Mechanisms to enhance the effectiveness of allied health and social care assistants in community-based rehabilitation services: a qualitative study." Health & Social Care in the Community 23, no. 4 (December 5, 2014): 389–98. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/hsc.12158.
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Wood, Angela J., Sarita B. Schuurs, and Delena I. Amsters. "Evaluating new roles for the support workforce in community rehabilitation settings in Queensland." Australian Health Review 35, no. 1 (2011): 86. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah10880.
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Introduction. Alternative workforce models need to be explored to adequately meet the future health care needs of the Australian population. A new role for the support workforce, to optimise their contribution in community rehabilitation in Queensland – the advanced community rehabilitation assistant (ACRA) – was developed on the basis of service activity mapping and gap analysis. Objectives. Evaluation of a trial of the new ACRA role at six pilot sites in Queensland. Participants. ACRAs, health professionals and rehabilitation clients. Methods. Transcripts of semistructured telephone interviews conducted with ACRAs, health professionals and rehabilitation clients were thematically analysed. The nature of the role as well as perceived strengths and weaknesses were explored. Results. The presence of an ACRA was generally seen to diversify and expand local service capacity. The major challenge was the initial intensity of instruction that was required from supervising health professionals. Conclusions. ACRAs have potential to be valuable resources in the provision of community rehabilitation services. The challenge of meeting each new ACRA’s preliminary training needs requires further consideration. A critical mass of people trained to this role may be required to ensure sustainability. Further trial and evaluation is needed to investigate the role more thoroughly over time and in different settings. What is known about the topic? It is evident that support workers such as allied health assistants and assistants in nursing make a valuable contribution to healthcare provision. Emerging alternative health workforce models incorporate support workers in a range of capacities including generic health workers through to advanced support roles. What does this paper add? By presenting an evaluation of a trial of an ACRA role, this paper highlights potential benefits and challenges of such a role. What are the implications for practitioners? The trial of the ACRA’s role, as presented in this paper, demonstrates how practitioners can be personally involved in shaping workforce solutions at a service level. The attitude of health professionals to an expanded role for the support workforce and their ability to provide the necessary support for the role will influence its potential as a component of an alternative workforce model.
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Mitchell, Tanya Villalpando, Ralph Peters, Cynthia C. Gadbury-Amyot, Pamela R. Overman, and Lauren Stover. "Access to Care and the Allied Oral Health Care Workforce in Kansas: Perceptions of Kansas Dental Hygienists and Scaling Dental Assistants." Journal of Dental Education 70, no. 3 (March 2006): 263–78. http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/j.0022-0337.2006.70.3.tb04082.x.
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Bakhsh, Hadeel R., Heba H. Bakhsh, Seham M. Alotaibi, Maha A. Abuzaid, Latefah A. Aloumi, and Shoug F. Alorf. "Musculoskeletal Disorder Symptoms in Saudi Allied Dental Professionals: Is there an Underestimation of Related Occupational Risk Factors?" International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 19 (September 27, 2021): 10167. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph181910167.
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This study aims to examine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) symptoms in allied dental professionals (ADPs) in Saudi Arabia and risk factors for MSDs. The study also explores ADPs’ opinions and attitudes about the effect of MSD symptoms on the quality of life and potential mitigatory measures. This is a prospective cross-sectional study. Participants were 355 licensed dental staff (average age 33.6 ± 8.1 years, 69% women) working as assistants, lab technicians, radiology technicians, or sterilization technicians with at least six months’ work experience. The self-administrated questionnaire comprised socio-demographics, work-related factors, and items from the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Multivariate and univariate logistic regressions were conducted to investigate risk factors for MSD symptoms. Overall, 93% of ADPs complained of MSD symptoms in at least one body site in the past 12 months. Factors related to work conditions (e.g., ‘keeping an uncomfortable posture for long periods of time’, ‘lifting heavy objects’) and years of experience were proven to be significant risk factor for developing MSDs. The cohort of ADPs showed a high MSD symptoms prevalence. Efforts are imperative in addressing the risk factors of ergonomics and the workplace environment, and more rigorous studies are needed to further investigate risk factors.
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Bloomer, Melissa J., Paul Fulbrook, Sandra Goldsworthy, Sarah L. Livesay, Marion L. Mitchell, Ged Williams, and Adriano Friganovic. "World Federation of Critical Care Nurses 2019 Position Statement: Provision of a Critical Care Nursing Workforce." Connect: The World of Critical Care Nursing 13, no. 1 (March 1, 2019): 3–7. http://dx.doi.org/10.1891/1748-6254.13.1.3.
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BackgroundDue to changes in critical care worldwide, the World Federation of Critical Care Nurses Board of Directors commissioned a review of its 2005 Declaration of Buenos Aires: Position Statement on the Provision of a Critical Care Nursing Workforce.AimTo provide international recommendations to inform and assist critical care nursing associations, health services, governments, and other interested stakeholders in the development and provision of an appropriate critical care nursing workforce.MethodsAn international review group was established, comprised of critical care nurse clinicians, leaders, and researchers. A literature search was undertaken, which informed the revision of the 2005 Declaration, which is contained in the 2019 Position Statement.PositionThe position is supported by six central principles, and is comprised of eight key statements: A critical care unit should have a dedicated nurse leader; Each shift should have at least one registered nurse (RN) designated as the team leader; The majority of RNs providing patient care should hold a recognized post-registration qualification or certification in critical care; Critical care RN staffing should be assessed on a shift-by-shift basis according to patient acuity, the staffing profile, and unit need; An additional critical care RN, not counted in RN-to-patient ratios or allocated a patient load, may provide additional hands-on assistance in patient care, and coordinate other patient-related activities; Support staff (such as nursing and allied health assistants, nursing aides, and care assistants) should work only under the direct supervision of a critical care RN, and never in place of a critical care RN; Where institutionally supported, and in accordance with local legislation, a critical care RN may provide expert critical care consultancy; A critical care unit should be staffed to provide at least one senior nurse, who holds a recognized post-registration critical care qualification or certification, and ideally further qualifications in education.
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Gohar, B., M. Larivière, N. Lightfoot, E. Wenghofer, C. Larivière, and B. Nowrouzi-Kia. "Meta-analysis of nursing-related organizational and psychosocial predictors of sickness absence." Occupational Medicine 70, no. 8 (August 15, 2020): 593–601. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/occmed/kqaa144.
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Abstract Background Nursing is a stressful occupation with high rates of sickness absence. To date, there are no meta-analyses that statistically determined the correlates of sickness absence in this population. Aims This meta-analysis examined organizational and psychosocial predictors of sickness absence among nursing staff. Methods As a registered systematic review (PROSPERO: CRD42017071040), which followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, five databases (CINAHL, PROQuest Allied, PROQuest database theses, PsycINFO, PubMed) were reviewed to examine predictors of sickness absence in nurses and nursing assistants between 1990 and 2019. The Population/Intervention/Comparison/Outcome tool was used to support our searches. Effect sizes were analysed using random-effects model. Results Following critical appraisals using (i) National Institutes of Health’s Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies and (ii) Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology, 21 studies were included. Nursing assistants had greater odds of sickness absence than nurses. Working night shifts, in paediatrics or psychiatric units, experiencing poor mental health, and fatigue, also increased the odds of sickness absence. There was no evidence that job satisfaction or job strain influenced sickness absence; however, job demand increased the likelihood. Finally, work support reduced the odds of lost-time. Conclusions We synthesized three decades of research where several factors influenced sickness absence. Due to limited recent research, the results should be interpreted with caution as some practices may have changed overtime or between countries. Nevertheless, these findings could help in applying preventative strategies to mitigate lost-time in a vulnerable working population.
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Newman, Cristal S., Petrea L. Cornwell, Adrienne M. Young, Elizabeth C. Ward, and Annmarie L. Mcerlain. "Accuracy and confidence of allied health assistants administering the subjective global assessment on inpatients in a rural setting: a preliminary feasibility study." Nutrition & Dietetics 75, no. 1 (July 27, 2017): 129–36. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/1747-0080.12370.
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Tuckett, Anthony G. "The experience of lying in dementia care." Nursing Ethics 19, no. 1 (December 2, 2011): 7–20. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0969733011412104.
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This analysis examines the practice of care providers in residential aged care lying to residents with dementia. Qualitative data were collected through multiple methods. Data here represents perceptions from registered and enrolled nurses, personal care assistants, and allied health professionals from five residential aged care facilities located in Queensland, Australia. Care providers in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) lie to residents with dementia. Lying is conceptualized as therapeutic whereby the care provider’s intent is to eliminate harm and also control behaviour. Care providers of residents with dementia in RACFs need guidance around lying. An ethical framework cognisant of an ethical theory of good and ethical theory of right supplemented by a theory of virtue is proposed. A complimentary four stage communication strategy that promotes truth telling as a first option while also recommending the lie as a suitable strategy is also promoted.
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Fager, Susan, Jenna LeDoux, and David Beukelman. "Evaluating Preferred Augmentative and Alternative Communication Strategies for Patients in Long-Term Health Care Hospitals." Perspectives on Augmentative and Alternative Communication 23, no. 2 (April 2014): 99–103. http://dx.doi.org/10.1044/aac23.2.99.
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Long-term acute medical care hospital (LTACH) units serve a wide range of individuals, with serious medical problems requiring intense, special treatment for an extended period of time. Some of LTACH patients are unable to meet all of their communication needs using their natural speech, either temporarily or permanently. The purpose of this investigation was to survey personnel groups who routinely work in LTACH units regarding their preferences related to 3 communication options containing 27 representative communication boards, that were supported by mobile technology including an iPad only, an iPad with a flat screen that mirrored the iPad screen, and an iPad with a projected image that mirrored the iPad screen. Participants from 3 groups, (1) registered nurses and nursing assistants; (2) allied health professionals including respiratory, physical, and occupational therapists; and (3) speech-language pathologists, ranked the iPad-only AAC choice highest for patients in LTACH units followed by the iPad with screen, and iPad with projector. For the ease of use items by patients, families, and staff, all participant groups rated the iPad alone higher than the iPad with flat screen or the iPad with projector.
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Patel, Kishan, Simon Gay, Richard Holland, and Elizabeth Anderson. "Tensions and Possibilities: A qualitative study of the views of nurse faculty training medical students to be Health Care Assistants." International Journal of Practice-based Learning in Health and Social Care 11, no. 1 (April 21, 2023): 33–48. http://dx.doi.org/10.18552/ijpblhsc.v11i1.792.
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In the majority of pre-registration training programmes early theory is supported by later clinical learning. Unlike nursing, midwifery and the allied health professions, medical training often offers relatively little early clinical patient contact, though this does vary by medical school. To overcome this, recently, some medical schools offer patient-facing nurse training for the Care Certificate (CC) in the first year, but as yet little is known about how this is being received by nurses. We report on the experiences and perceptions of nurse-led faculty who led a pilot for first year medical students to gain the CC in the academic year 2019-20, in one UK medical school. The qualitative study involved one-to-one in-depth semi-structured interviews with the course educators. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Seven faculty participated, sharing their delight at students’ willingness to embrace the CC. Five main themes arose: i) perceptions of doctors and nurses in the healthcare system; ii) affinity with the medical students; iii) benefits of the CC for medical students working as Health Care Assistants; iv) anxiety about teaching the medical students; and, v) uncertainty about whether this training should be compulsory. We discovered that, nurses yearn for greater appreciation for their work by the medical workforce. These teachers felt this could be realised through this change within first year medical training. Many benefits were perceived as an outcome of this training for medical students, all members of the clinical team and most importantly for patients.
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Schwarz, Maria, Elizabeth C. Ward, Petrea Cornwell, Anne Coccetti, Pamela D'Netto, Aimee Smith, and Katharine Morley-Davies. "Exploring the Validity and Operational Impact of Using Allied Health Assistants to Conduct Dysphagia Screening for Low-Risk Patients Within the Acute Hospital Setting." American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology 29, no. 4 (November 12, 2020): 1944–55. http://dx.doi.org/10.1044/2020_ajslp-19-00060.
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Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine (a) the agreement between allied health assistants (AHAs) and speech-language pathologists (SLPs) when completing dysphagia screening for low-risk referrals and at-risk patients under a delegation model and (b) the operational impact of this delegation model. Method All AHAs worked in the adult acute inpatient settings across three hospitals and completed training and competency evaluation prior to conducting independent screening. Screening (pass/fail) was based on results from pre-screening exclusionary questions in combination with a water swallow test and the Eating Assessment Tool. To examine the agreement of AHAs' decision making with SLPs, AHAs ( n = 7) and SLPs ( n = 8) conducted an independent, simultaneous dysphagia screening on 51 adult inpatients classified as low-risk/at-risk referrals. To examine operational impact, AHAs independently completed screening on 48 low-risk/at-risk patients, with subsequent clinical swallow evaluation conducted by an SLP with patients who failed screening. Results Exact agreement between AHAs and SLPs on overall pass/fail screening criteria for the first 51 patients was 100%. Exact agreement for the two tools was 100% for the Eating Assessment Tool and 96% for the water swallow test. In the operational impact phase ( n = 48), 58% of patients failed AHA screening, with only 10% false positives on subjective SLP assessment and nil identified false negatives. Conclusion AHAs demonstrated the ability to reliably conduct dysphagia screening on a cohort of low-risk patients, with a low rate of false negatives. Data support high level of agreement and positive operational impact of using trained AHAs to perform dysphagia screening in low-risk patients.
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Bogunjoko, Tayo J., Adekunle O. Hassan, Ogugua Okonkwo, Toyin Akanbi, Mildred Ulaikere, Ayodele Akinye, Halima Bogunjoko, and Monsurat Y. Lawal-Sebioniga. "Impact of middle level eye care personnel on the delivery of eye care services in South-western Nigeria." International Journal Of Community Medicine And Public Health 5, no. 3 (February 24, 2018): 871. http://dx.doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20180740.
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Background: The objectives of the study were to review the training and assess the impact of middle level eye care personnel (community ophthalmic technician) with skills to complement the services of the ophthalmologist for efficient eye care system and fulfilling vision 2020 goals.Methods: The collaboration between 2010 and 2015 was reviewed with an institutional questionnaire for both Eye Foundation Centre and College of Health Technology in Ijebu, Nigeria: structure of 2 year training Programme and one year internship, community ophthalmic technicians (COT) as assistants to ophthalmologists, hierarchy/career options and challenges and ensuring clinical quality and their strength in the Eye Foundation Eye Health System were appraised.Results: From 2010 to 2015, a total of 72 COTs have graduated, 41(57%) of them employed by the Eye Foundation Hospital Group. Apart from this, 28 did their internship in 2015, 19 (68%) out of this at Eye Foundation establishments in southwestern and north central Nigeria. Others are employed by other government or nongovernmental agencies. From 2010 to 2015, outpatients’ visits have increased from 42,962 to 104,239 at its peak, surgical volume from 3,999 to 18,350 at the Eye Foundation Hospital Group. The COT programme has been accredited by International Joint Commission on Allied health personnel in Ophthalmology (IJCAHPO).Conclusions: COTs with skills are required in large numbers to complement the services of ophthalmologists for efficient eye health system. Their contribution is very important to meet the vision 2020 human resources objectives for Sub-Saharan Africa.
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El-Matary, Wael, Eric I. Benchimol, David Mack, Hien Q. Huynh, Jeff Critch, Anthony Otley, Colette Deslandres, et al. "Allied Health Professional Support in Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Survey from the Canadian Children Inflammatory Bowel Disease Network—A Joint Partnership of CIHR and the CH.I.L.D. Foundation." Canadian Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2017 (2017): 1–7. http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2017/3676474.
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Objectives. The current number of healthcare providers (HCP) caring for children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) across Canadian tertiary-care centres is underinvestigated. The aim of this survey was to assess the number of healthcare providers (HCP) in ambulatory pediatric IBD care across Canadian tertiary-care centres. Methods. Using a self-administered questionnaire, we examined available resources in academic pediatric centres within the Canadian Children IBD Network. The survey evaluated the number of HCP providing ambulatory care for children with IBD. Results. All 12 tertiary pediatric gastroenterology centres participating in the network responded. Median full-time equivalent (FTE) of allied health professionals providing IBD care at each site was 1.0 (interquartile range (IQR) 0.6–1.0) nurse, 0.5 (IQR 0.2–0.8) dietitian, 0.3 (IQR 0.2–0.8) social worker, and 0.1 (IQR 0.02–0.3) clinical psychologists. The ratio of IBD patients to IBD physicians was 114 : 1 (range 31 : 1–537 : 1), patients to nurses/physician assistants 324 : 1 (range 150 : 1–900 : 1), dieticians 670 : 1 (range 250 : 1–4500 : 1), social workers 1558 : 1 (range 250 : 1–16000 : 1), and clinical psychologists 2910 : 1 (range 626 : 1–3200 : 1). Conclusions. There was a wide variation in HCP support among Canadian centres. Future work will examine variation in care including patients’ outcomes and satisfaction across Canadian centres.
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Kilaberia, Tina. "Organizational Commitment Among Residential Senior Care Workers." Innovation in Aging 4, Supplement_1 (December 1, 2020): 21. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/geroni/igaa057.068.
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Abstract Despite growing evidence of the increase in the aging population nationally, there continues to be a shortage of health and social care professionals who work with older adults. Some studies examine this phenomenon by looking at motivations that underlie commitment to geriatric careers. Others study commitment among those who are already geriatric professionals. Both the volume and diversity of the aging population challenge organizations to provide care. Drawing on 44 interviews, observations of 62 meetings, and a 5-year immersion, this organizational ethnography looks at commitment factors at a large, urban, faith-based residential senior care organization. Commitment factors are examined on three levels: daily tensions and rewards; value tensions and rewards; and deal breakers and clinchers. Findings show that intrinsic identity-based factors such as affective bonds with older persons and sharing in faith values sustain commitment on the person level. Interprofessional tensions may detract from commitment. Implications pertain to the role of leadership in equity-related and ethical tensions as well as the improved uptake of allied health professional expertises such as social work and chaplaincy. This study extends the extant knowledge by incorporating perspectives of social workers, chaplains, rehabilitation, recreational, diet and environmental services workers in addition to the more commonly examined groups such as nurses and certified nursing assistants, and in a setting that includes Assisted Living in addition to long-term care.
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Hyett, Nerida, Kerryn Bagley, Teresa Iacono, Carol McKinstry, Jo Spong, and Oriane Landry. "Evaluation of a Codesign Method Used to Support the Inclusion of Children With Disability in Mainstream Schools." International Journal of Qualitative Methods 19 (January 1, 2020): 160940692092498. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1609406920924982.
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Codesign is increasingly used for health research and service improvement. Codesign combines generative and exploratory methods, enabling collaboration between service end users and researchers as equal partners. The aim of this study was to evaluate a codesign method used to design an online education package about inclusive education for children with disability in mainstream schools. The study design was a multiple methods evaluation informed by participatory and transformative research paradigms, incorporating design sciences and public service approaches. A governance committee supported the process. The codesigners ( n = 12) included teachers, teacher assistants, parents, and allied health professionals. Process and outcome evaluation data were used; data collected were from verbatim transcripts of codesign workshop discussions ( n = 11), documents, Self-Report Level of Participation Surveys, and individual interviews ( n = 11). Thematic and descriptive analysis methods were used to describe the codesign processes, experiences, and outcomes. The key processes were identifying the issues through storytelling, voicing frustrations, being vulnerable, sharing insider knowledge, challenging other people’s roles, and deliberation and decision-making. Codesigners’ experiences and outcomes identified strengths and challenges in the method. A conceptual model is presented demonstrating interrelationships between processes, subprocesses, and codesigners’ experiences and outcomes. Codesign involves multiple, interrelated processes that support deliberation and creative design. Skills and resources are required to effectively facilitate what can be a meaningful, creative, and social process.
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Furness, Linda, Alison C. Pighills, Wendy Ducat, and Anna Tynan. "Implementation of a new model of clinical education for regional occupational therapy student clinical placements." Australian Health Review 41, no. 5 (2017): 546. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah16044.
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Expansion of occupational therapy education programs has resulted in increased student numbers and demand on clinicians to host clinical placements while also maintaining the delivery of high-quality, safe clinical services to patients. Much of the research about innovative placement models, including student contributions to service delivery, has been conducted in metropolitan areas. Therefore, there is a need to develop models that are suited to regional settings that face diversity of caseload, more generalised occupational therapy roles and variations in patient flow. The aim of the present study was to describe the initial application of the Calderdale Framework in student education in a regional context and look at lessons learnt. The Calderdale Framework provided a structured, clinically governed process whereby occupational therapists were able to determine which tasks could be allocated to students and provided a framework to support student training and competency development. The Calderdale Framework has been used successfully to implement allied health models involving professional skill sharing and delegation of tasks to allied health assistants, but it has not been used in clinical education. Pilot implementation of the Calderdale Framework showed that the model supports quality and safety of student-provided occupational therapy services and that the teaching method provides a platform for student skill development. These results warrant further investigation and are potentially transferrable to student education in other health professions. What is known about the topic? The Calderdale Framework provides a systematic method for reviewing skill mix, developing new roles, identifying new ways of working and facilitating service redesign in healthcare environments. It provides a structure for service and task analysis with a focus on developing clinical competencies, but has not been used in clinical education. What does this paper add? This paper provides an overview of implementation process, challenges and strategies used in the application of the Calderdale Framework in clinical education. What are the implications for practitioners? The Calderdale Framework provides a framework with tools and resources which can be applied to support student learning and student-provided service delivery on clinical placements. Further investigation of the application of the Calderdale Framework in pre-entry student placements is warranted.
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Shallal, Anita, Evi Abada, Rami Musallam, Omar Fehmi, Linda Kaljee, Ziad Fehmi, Suma Alzouhayli, et al. "Evaluation of COVID-19 Vaccine Attitudes among Arab American Healthcare Professionals Living in the United States." Vaccines 9, no. 9 (August 24, 2021): 942. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/vaccines9090942.
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Background: Vaccine hesitancy is the next great barrier for public health. Arab Americans are a rapidly growing demographic in the United States with limited information on the prevalence of vaccine hesitancy. We therefore sought to study the attitudes towards the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine amongst Arab American health professionals living in the United States. Methods: This was a cross sectional study utilizing an anonymous online survey. The survey was distributed via e-mail to National Arab American Medical Association members and Arab-American Center for Economic and Social Services healthcare employees. Respondents were considered vaccine hesitant if they selected responses other than a willingness to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Results: A total of 4000 surveys were sent via e-mail from 28 December 2020 to 31 January 2021, and 513 responses were received. The highest group of respondents were between the ages of 18–29 years and physicians constituted 48% of the respondents. On multivariable analysis, we found that respondents who had declined an influenza vaccine in the preceding 5 years (p < 0.001) and allied health professionals (medical assistants, hospital administrators, case managers, researchers, scribes, pharmacists, dieticians and social workers) were more likely to be vaccine hesitant (p = 0.025). In addition, respondents earning over $150,000 US dollars annually were less likely to be vaccine hesitant and this finding was significant on multivariable analysis (p = 0.011). Conclusions: Vaccine hesitancy among health care providers could have substantial impact on vaccine attitudes of the general population, and such data may help inform vaccine advocacy efforts.
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Howarth, Harrison, Toby Stevens, Benjamin Gostick, Lisanne Stock, and David Stone. "Improving attitudes towards the COVID-19 vaccine in forensic mental health workers: a quality improvement project." BJPsych Open 7, S1 (June 2021): S194. http://dx.doi.org/10.1192/bjo.2021.523.
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AimsThe primary aim of the project was to improve attitudes towards the COVID-19 vaccine in forensic mental health staff at a large regional tertiary forensic psychiatry unit. The main variable examined was attitudes towards safety of the vaccine. Secondary aims included decreasing misinformation about the vaccine and improving vaccine uptake.MethodPaper questionnaires were distributed to willing staff members across 6 forensic inpatient wards within the North London Forensic Service. Participants included a range of allied health professionals including nurses, health care assistants, ward managers, occupational therapists, assistant therapists and administrative staff. Questionnaires used a mixture of Likert scale for agreement/disagreement with statements and yes/no questions.Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) methodology was utilised in implementing changes, and repeat questionnaires used to measure changes in attitude and behaviour. Change ideas implemented included the creation of ‘mythbusters’ posters which target vaccine misinformation, the creation and distribution of posters of staff members who had already taken their vaccine, the creation of vaccine champions to aid engagement in conversation about the vaccine, vaccine information packs being distributed to all wards and the opportunity for staff to ‘drop-in’ to clinics for information about the vaccine.ResultVaccine uptake improved from 7% before interventions to 69% after interventions.The proportion of people very unlikely or unlikely to get the vaccine reduced from 25% to just 9%. The proportion of those feeling neutral reduced from 32% to 6%. The proportion of those either likely or very likely to get the vaccine increased from 34% to 85%.Before interventions only 20% felt that the vaccine was either safe or very safe. This improved to 63% after interventionsBefore interventions, only 27% of respondents felt they had received enough information by the trust to make an informed decision. After interventions, 80% said they had received enough information.The project was successful in reducing misinformation in every domain. Particularly reassuring was the reduction to zero of some of the most harmful misinformation claims, such as the presence of a tracking chip in the vaccine and the belief that COVID does not exist.71% of respondents indicated the interventions we set out changed their view on the COVID-19 vaccine.ConclusionThe changes implemented lead to clear improvements in all domains measured, suggesting targeted information is an effective strategy in improving uptake and attitudes around the vaccination program.
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Mejzner, Natasha, Christopher E. Clark, Lindsay FP Smith, and John L. Campbell. "Trends in the diagnosis and management of hypertension: repeated primary care survey in South West England." British Journal of General Practice 67, no. 658 (March 27, 2017): e306-e313. http://dx.doi.org/10.3399/bjgp17x690461.
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BackgroundPrevious surveys identified a shift to nurse-led care in hypertension in 2010. In 2011 the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommended ambulatory (ABPM) or home (HBPM) blood pressure (BP) monitoring for diagnosis of hypertension.AimTo survey the organisation of hypertension care in 2016 to identify changes, and to assess uptake of NICE diagnostic guidelines.Design and settingQuestionnaires were distributed to all 305 general practices in South West England.MethodResponses were compared with previous rounds (2007 and 2010). Data from the 2015 Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) were used to compare responders with non-responders, and to explore associations of care organisation with QOF achievement.ResultsOne-hundred-and-seventeen practices (38%) responded. Responders had larger list sizes and greater achievement of the QOF target BP ≤150/90 mmHg. Healthcare assistants (HCAs) now monitor BP in 70% of practices, compared with 37% in 2010 and 19% in 2007 (P<0.001). Nurse prescribers alter BP medication in 26% of practices (11% in 2010, none in 2007; P<0.001). Of the practices, 89% have access to ABPM, but only 71% report confidence in interpreting results. Also, 87% offer HBPM, with 93% of these confident in interpreting results.ConclusionIn primary care BP monitoring has devolved from GPs and nurses to HCAs. One in 10 practices are not implementing NICE guidelines on ABPM and HBPM for diagnosis of hypertension. Most practices express confidence interpreting HBPM results but less so with ABPM. The need for education and quality assurance for allied health professionals is highlighted, and for training in ABPM interpretation for GPs.
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Jaffry, Zahra, Siddarth Raj, Asser Sallam, Stephen Lyman, Ahmed Negida, Chi Fung Antony Yiu, Anshul Sobti, et al. "Global impact of COVID-19 on surgeons and team members (GlobalCOST): a cross-sectional study." BMJ Open 12, no. 8 (August 2022): e059873. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2021-059873.
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ObjectivesTo investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the well-being of surgeons and allied health professionals as well as the support provided by their institutions.DesignThis cross-sectional study involved distributing an online survey through medical organisations, social media platforms and collaborators.SettingIt included all staff based in an operating theatre environment around the world.Participants1590 complete responses were received from 54 countries between 15 July and 15 December 2020. The average age of participants was 30–40 years old, 64.9% were men and 32.5% of a white ethnic background. 79.5% were surgeons with the remainder being nurses, assistants, anaesthetists, operating department practitioners or classified other.Main outcome measuresParticipants that had experienced any physical illness, changes in mental health, salary or time with family since the start of the pandemic as well as support available based on published recommendations.Results32.0% reported becoming physically ill. This was more likely in those with reduced access to personal protective equipment (OR 4.62; CI 2.82 to 7.56; p<0.001) and regular breaks (OR 1.56; CI 1.18 to 2.06; p=0.002). Those with a decrease in salary (29.0%) were more likely to have an increase in anxiety (OR 1.50; CI 1.19 to 1.89; p=0.001) and depression (OR 1.84; CI 1.40 to 2.43; p<0.001) and those who spent less time with family (35.2%) were more likely to have an increase in depression (OR 1.74; CI 1.34 to 2.26; p<0.001). Only 36.0% had easy access to occupational health, 44.0% to mental health services, 16.5% to 24/7 rest facilities and 14.2% to 24/7 food and drink facilities. Fewer measures were available in countries with a low Human Development Index.ConclusionsThis work has highlighted a need and strategies to improve conditions for the healthcare workforce, ultimately benefiting patient care.
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Brewin, Chris R., Michael A. P. Bloomfield, Jo Billings, Jasmine Harju-Seppänen, and Talya Greene. "What symptoms best predict severe distress in an online survey of UK health and social care staff facing COVID-19: development of the two-item Tipping Point Index." BMJ Open 11, no. 8 (August 2021): e047345. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2020-047345.
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ObjectivesCOVID-19 has altered standard thresholds for identifying anxiety and depression. A brief questionnaire to determine when individuals are at a tipping point for severe anxiety or depression would greatly help decisions about when to seek assessment or treatment.DesignData were collected as part of the Frontline-COVID Study, a cross-sectional national online survey with good coverage of health and social care settings. New questionnaire items reflecting when coping was actually breaking down were compared with standard measures of severe anxiety and depression. Data were collected between 27 May and 23 July 2020.SettingThe majority of participants worked in hospitals (53%), in nursing or care homes (15%), or in other community settings (30%).ParticipantsOf 1194 qualifying respondents, 1038 completed the six tipping point items. Respondents included nurses, midwives, doctors, care workers, healthcare assistants, allied healthcare professionals and other non-medical staff. Over 90% were white and female.Main outcome measuresThreshold for severe anxiety according to the Generalised Anxiety Disorder Scale-7 or moderately severe depression according to the Patient Health Questionnaire-9.ResultsAnswering yes to one of two simple questions (‘Over the last week have you been often feeling panicky or on the point of losing control of your emotions?’, ‘Over the last week have you felt complete hopelessness about the future?’) demonstrated very high sensitivity (0.95, 95% CI 0.92 to 0.97) and negative predictive value (0.97, 95% CI 0.95 to 0.98). Answering yes to both questions yielded high specificity (0.90, 95% CI 0.87 to 0.92) and positive predictive value (0.72, 95% CI 0.67 to 0.77). Results were replicated in two random subsamples and were consistent across different genders, ethnic backgrounds, and health or social care settings.ConclusionsAnswering two simple yes/no questions can provide simple and immediate guidance to assist with decisions about whether to seek further assessment or treatment.
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Sharma, Shobha, Elizabeth C. Ward, Clare Burns, Deborah Theodoros, and Trevor Russell. "Training the allied health assistant for the telerehabilitation assessment of dysphagia." Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare 18, no. 5 (July 2012): 287–91. http://dx.doi.org/10.1258/jtt.2012.111202.
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We examined the effect of knowledge and task specific training provided to an allied health assistant (AHA), prior to her involvement in facilitating assessments of dysphagia (swallowing disorders) via telerehabilitation. The AHA received four hours of training, which included basic theoretical information regarding dysphagia as well as hands-on training with simulated patients. A written test examining swallowing function and its evaluation was completed pre- and then immediately post-training, and then again after the 15th and 30th of 31 consecutive patient assessments. In addition, after each set of 5 clinical dysphagia assessments completed with patients following the training, two speech pathologists rated the AHA's competence in relation to performing the tasks and activities required of her during the telerehabilitation swallowing assessment. The AHA also self-rated the perceived level of confidence at these times. Before training, the assistant's knowledge of dysphagia theory was at 40%. Following training, all tests were above the 80% level. The AHA's performance was rated as competent on each evaluation post-training. The AHA also expressed overall satisfaction with the initial training provided and reported feeling confident after the initial sessions with patients. Thus for an AHA with previous clinical experience, competence and perceived comfort in providing assistance in the sessions was achieved with only a few hours of task specific training.
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Killeen, E., M. Higgins, C. Keogh, S. Russell, and C. Curran. "154 SAFEGUARDING ADULTS AT RISK OF ABUSE—IDENTIFYING KNOWLEDGE GAPS AMONGST HOSPITAL STAFF TO GUIDE POLICY IMPLEMENTATION AND TRAINING." Age and Ageing 50, Supplement_3 (November 2021): ii9—ii41. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/ageing/afab219.154.
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Abstract Background Safeguarding is the protection of health, wellbeing and life free from abuse. Abuse is a a violation of a person’s human and civil rights; forms include psychological, financial, physical, sexual, neglect and self-neglect. Health Service Executive (HSE) drafted the 2019 ‘Adult Safeguarding Policy’ for adults at risk of abuse to replace the 2014 version. In preparation for implementation a tertiary hospital founded a Safeguarding Committee in 2021. A core objective was establishing staff understanding, experience of safeguarding and education needs to guide future training. Methods 10-question survey of 223 staff; included doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, medical social workers, healthcare assistants, porters, psychologists. Results 91% response rate. 184 (91%) staff were familiar with the term ‘safeguarding’; only 44% were aware of the HSE 2019 policy. 129 (64%) had experience with a case of suspected abuse. Most common forms were financial, psychological and self-neglect (n = 60, 47, 39 respectively). Sexual abuse was least common (n = 10). 47% felt ‘somewhat’ confident recognising possible abuse compared to 42% who felt ‘extremely’ or ‘very’ confident. 61% were ‘somewhat’ or ‘not so’ confident about the next steps for suspected abuse; only 11% were ‘extremely’ confident. 49% felt ‘extremely’ or ‘very’ confident in reporting a suspected abuse case; 50% felt ‘somewhat’ or ‘not so’ confident. Most common reasons for lack of confidence were lack of training, unclear reporting process and lack of experience with cases of abuse. Medical social workers were most confident; doctors were the least. 170 (84%) wanted more safeguarding training—the most popular options were online or in-person training. Conclusion Gaps in knowledge and confidence were identified amongst staff for cases of suspected abuse. This will guide future training in the hospital in line with the HSE Adult Safeguarding policy.
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Lyness, Emily, Jennifer Parker, Merlin L. Willcox, and Hajira Dambha-Miller. "Experiences of out-of-hours task-shifting from GPs: a systematic review of qualitative studies." BJGP Open 5, no. 4 (June 22, 2021): BJGPO.2021.0043. http://dx.doi.org/10.3399/bjgpo.2021.0043.
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BackgroundThe current GP workforce is insufficient to manage rising demand in patient care within out-of-hours (OOH) primary care services. To meet this challenge, non-medical practitioners (NMPs) are employed to fulfil tasks traditionally carried out by GPs. It is important to learn from experiences of task-shifting in this setting to inform optimal delivery of care.AimTo synthesise qualitative evidence of experiences of task-shifting in the OOH primary care setting.Design & settingSystematic review of qualitative studies and thematic synthesis.MethodElectronic searches were conducted across CINAHL (Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature), PsychINFO, Cochrane, MEDLINE, Embase, and OpenGrey for qualitative studies of urgent or OOH primary care services, utilising task-shifting or role delegation. Included articles were quality appraised and key findings collated through thematic synthesis.ResultsA total of 2497 studies were screened, of which six met the inclusion criteria. These included interviews with 15 advanced nurse practitioners (ANPs), three physician assistants (PAs), two paramedics, and a focus group of 22 GPs, and focus groups with 33 nurses. Key findings highlight the importance of clearly defining and communicating the scope of practice of NMPs, and of building their confidence by appropriate training, support, and mentoring.ConclusionWhile NMPs may have the potential to make a substantial contribution to OOH primary care services, there has been very little research on experiences of task-shifting. Evidence to date highlights the need for further training specific to OOH services. Mentorship and support to manage the sometimes challenging cases presenting to OOH could enable more effective OOH services and better patient care.
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Furlan, Andrea D., Jane Zhao, Jennifer Voth, Samah Hassan, Ruth Dubin, Jennifer N. Stinson, Susan Jaglal, et al. "Evaluation of an innovative tele-education intervention in chronic pain management for primary care clinicians practicing in underserved areas." Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare 25, no. 8 (July 10, 2018): 484–92. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1357633x18782090.
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Introduction Inadequate knowledge and training of healthcare providers are obstacles to effective chronic pain management. ECHO (extension for community healthcare outcomes) uses case-based learning and videoconferencing to connect specialists with providers in underserved areas. ECHO aims to increase capacity in managing complex cases in areas with poor access to specialists. Methods A pre-post study was conducted to evaluate the impact of ECHO on healthcare providers’ self-efficacy, knowledge and satisfaction. Type of profession, presenting a case, and number of sessions attended were examined as potential factors that may influence the outcomes Results From June 2014 to March 2017, 296 primary care healthcare providers attended ECHO, 264 were eligible for the study, 170 (64%) completed the pre-ECHO questionnaire and 119 completed post-ECHO questionnaires. Participants were physicians (34%), nurse practitioners (21%), pharmacists (13%) and allied health professionals (32%). Participants attended a mean of 15 ± 9.19 sessions. There was a significant increase in self-efficacy ( p < 0.0001) and knowledge ( p < 0.0001). Self-efficacy improvement was significantly higher among physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners than the non-prescribers group ( p = 0.03). On average, 96% of participants were satisfied with ECHO. Satisfaction was higher among those who presented cases and attended more sessions. Discussion This study shows that ECHO improved providers’ self-efficacy and knowledge. We evaluated outcomes from a multidisciplinary group of providers practicing in Ontario. This diversity supports the generalisability of our findings. Therefore, we suggest that this project may be used as a template for creating other educational programs on other medical topics.
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Riaz, Usman, Shafqat Perveen, Muniba Afzal, Idrees Ahmed ,. Zahoor, Iqra ., and Romasa Sarwar. "The Frequency of Phantom Vibration Syndrome in Medical Staff: A Cross Sectional Survey." Pakistan Journal of Medical and Health Sciences 16, no. 6 (June 30, 2022): 979–81. http://dx.doi.org/10.53350/pjmhs22166979.
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Introduction: Phantom vibration syndrome, also known as hypovibochondria or ring-xiety, may occur among individuals carrying digital devices. Phantom vibration syndrome is the mistaken belief that a device is vibrating when it is not. The current study investigates this phenomenon among medical staff who often interact with digital devices throughout duty hours. Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the frequency of Phantom vibration syndrome in medical staff. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of medical staff was conducted. A convenience sample of 150 physicians, surgeons, allied health professionals, and medical assistants was used. Online survey invitations were sent by email, WhatsApp, and other channels. The data was analysed by SPSS 25.0. The Fisher exact test was used to compare phantom vibrations to categorical data. Results: The results showed that out of 190 medical staff, there were 133 (72.7%) having phantom vibration syndrome. It was significantly associated (p=0.000) with younger age groups from 21-40 year, was seen more in surgeon, physicians and then nurses (p=0.029), associated more with carrying cell phone (p=0.003), more in carrying device in breast and back pocket (p=0.001), more in keeping device on vibration always or most of time (p=0.008) and more in using device from 11-15 or more hours (p=0.001). It was equally distributed in both male females (p=0.176) Conclusion: The study concluded that phantom vibration syndrome was highly prevalent in medical staff. The findings were associated with the length of time the product was used and were more prevalent among surgeons, medical physicians, and nurses in a decreasing order. most respondents regarded the feelings as bothersome and worth stopping and even changing the device. Keywords: Phantom Vibration Syndrome, Medical Staff, Health Practitioner, Digital Devices
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Featherstone, Imogen, Miriam Johnson, Lesley Jones, Eleonora Coppo, Annmarie Hosie, Shirley H. Bush, Najma Siddiqi, Johanna Taylor, and Andrew Teodorczuk. "16 Delirium care of hospice patients: a qualitative interview study with staff and volunteers." BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care 8, no. 3 (September 2018): 365.3–366. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjspcare-2018-mariecurie.16.
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IntroductionDelirium is a distressing condition which is commonly experienced by hospice patients. Although delirium can be prevented by around one-third in hospital inpatients (Siddiqi et al. 2016) there has been little research into effective strategies to prevent and manage delirium in hospices. Greater insight into the current practice attitudes and understanding of hospice staff and volunteers would inform the development of interventions that are tailored to improve delirium care in hospices.AimTo explore the understanding attitudes and practice of hospice staff and volunteers regarding the care of patients with delirium.Methods36 qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted at two hospices. Participants were purposively sampled to include different disciplines (9 health care assistants, 8 nurses, 5 doctors, 4 volunteers, 3 board members, 2 allied health professionals, 2 managers, 2 domestic workers and 2 fundraisers). A topic guide and case vignettes prompted participants to describe their experiences in relation to delirium prevention recognition assessment and management. Three researchers are conducting thematic analysis to identify analyse and interpret themes from the interview data.ResultsProvisional results include themes of: ‘Supporting the distressing experience of delirium’; ‘Management strategies’ and ‘The burden of delirium care.’ Gaps in current practice relate to delirium prevention recognition and screening. Potential facilitators for developing interventions in hospices include education flexibility in staffing the role of volunteers and a supportive staff culture.ConclusionThis study will provide important insights into staff and volunteers’ current practice which will inform the development of a targeted intervention to improve delirium care in hospices.Reference. Siddiqi N, Harrison J, Clegg A, Teale E, Young J, Taylor J, Simpkins S. Interventions for preventing delirium in hospitalised non-ICU patients. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews2016;(3). Art. No.: CD005563. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD005563.pub3
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Kortyna, R., W. Eisenhauer, M. Freeman, M. Kauffman, and D. Kortyna. "Student Physician Assistant Knowledge of Allied Health Workerʼs Education." Journal of Physician Assistant Education 13, no. 2 (2002): 112. http://dx.doi.org/10.1097/01367895-200213020-00021.
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Mills, Anneliese, Rachel Wortzman, Sally Bean, and Debbie Selby. "Allied Health Care Providers Participating in Medical Assistance in Dying." Journal of Hospice & Palliative Nursing 22, no. 3 (June 2020): 220–28. http://dx.doi.org/10.1097/njh.0000000000000646.
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Jaafar, Nor Subhi, Idayu Badilla Idris, Norfazilah Ahmad, Rozita Hod, Baidi Baddiri, and Rafidah Hod. "Internet addiction and its association with depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms among allied health students in Malaysia." Medical Journal of Indonesia 31, no. 1 (April 22, 2022): 56–61. http://dx.doi.org/10.13181/mji.oa.225820.
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BACKGROUND Internet addiction (IA) is prone to be experienced by students and has become a major health concern. However, data on IA among allied health students are limited. This study aimed to describe the prevalence of IA and the association between mental health problems and IA among allied health students in Malaysia.
METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to December 2021 in three government-funded allied health training institutes in Malaysia. A total of 265 allied health students undertaking a diploma in nursing, medical assistant training, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and diagnostic imaging were recruited using stratified random sampling. The Malay version of the IA test was used to measure IA, while depression, anxiety and stress scale-21 items were used to assess their mental health problems. A general linear model was used to analyze the association between IA scores and mental health problems.
RESULTS The prevalence of IA among allied health students was more than 80%, with 16.2% and 2.3% of them reporting moderate and severe IA, respectively. Higher depression (p<0.001), anxiety (p<0.001), and stress scores (p = 0.002) were associated with higher IA scores.
CONCLUSIONS There were significant associations between mental health problems and IA scores among allied health students. Future studies with rigorous scientific methods are necessary to explore mental health effects on IA. Early intervention is also needed to prevent mental health problems among allied health students to overcome the problem of IA.
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Kuipers, Pim, Andrea Hurwood, and Liza-Jane McBride. "Audit of allied health assistant roles: Suggestions for improving quality in rural settings." Australian Journal of Rural Health 23, no. 3 (May 6, 2015): 185–88. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/ajr.12161.
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