Articles - Statins
1 STATIN THERAPY: When to think twice.
By Wahawisan, Joy; Tovar, John M.; Granberry, Mark C Journal of Family Practice. Dec 2013, Vol. 62 Issue 12, p726-732. 6p
Abstract: The article discusses the proper administration of statins, a therapy which targets serum lipids, to avoid health risks. A study by the U.S. National Center for Health Statistics revealed that the composition of statins which include triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) increases high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and provides markers for cardiovascular diseases. It adds that should not be taken by with another drug like niacin since it causes stroke.
2. Statins and Cognitive Function.
By Richardson, Karl; Schoen, Marisa; French, Benjamin; Umscheid, Craig A.; Mitchell, Matthew D.; Arnold, Steven E.; Heidenreich, Paul A.; Rader, Daniel J.; deGoma, Emil M. Annals of Internal Medicine. 11/19/2013, Vol. 159 Issue 10, p688-698. 11p.
Abstract: Background: Despite the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warning regarding cognitive impairment, the relationship between statins and cognition remains unknown.
Purpose: To examine the effect of statins on cognition.
3. Is primary prevention with statins worth the effort?
By Price, Caroline. Pulse. Jun 2013, p26-27. 2p
Abstract: The article discusses a trial evidence questioning the growing pressure on British general practitioners (GPs) to prescribe statins as primary prevention. It states that based on the evidence, even high-risk patients who take statins just achieve an average of 14 more days of being alive. It offers insights from GP Malcolm Kendrick, who presented the evidence.
4. Do Statins Have a Role in the Prevention of Age-Related Macular Degeneration?
By Tsao, Sean; Fong, Donald. Drugs & Aging. 2013, Vol. 30 Issue 4, p205-213. 9p
Abstract: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of blindness worldwide for which preventative therapies are few. Evidence suggesting shared common risk factors and mirrored pathophysiology between cardiovascular disease and AMD led to the hypothesis that hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) could be helpful in preventing AMD. For over a decade, observational studies have repeatedly investigated this hypothesis with conflicting conclusions. Although many reports conclude that statin use has no effect on the risk of AMD, no randomized controlled trial has yet been completed.
Selected articles - Nursing Economic$ [Journal], Jan/Feb 2014
5. Resonant Leadership and Workplace Empowerment: The Value of Positive Organizational Cultures in Reducing Workplace Incivility.
By Laschinger, Heather K. Spence; Wong, Carol A.; Cummings, Greta G.; Grau, Ashley L. Nursing Economic$. Jan/Feb 2014, Vol. 32 Issue 1, p5-44. 13p
Abstract: The article discusses a study which aims to test a model linking a positive leadership approach and workplace empowerment to workplace incivility, burnout and job satisfaction. It defines workplace incivility as low intensity deviant behaviour with ambiguous intent of harming the target in violation of workplace norms for mutual respect. It suggests the role of positive leadership practices in the creation of healthy work environments that promote retention of nurses.
6. Gap Analysis: Synergies And Opportunities for Effective Nursing Leadership.
By Davis-Ajami, Mary Lynn; Costa, Linda; Kulik, Susan. Nursing Economic$. Jan/Feb 2014, Vol. 32 Issue 1, p17-25. 9p
Abstract: The article provides an overview of gap analysis (GA) framework and the necessary steps to conduct GA. It notes that GA is used to identify discrepancies between known benchmarks for efficient and effective health care delivery and practice within the real-world conditions. It cites GA's use of evidence-based practice standards to measure organizational outcomes. It suggests that the use of GA proactively helps organizations map out and sustain corrective efforts to close quality chasm.
7. Nursing Characteristics And Patient Outcomes.
By Schuelke, Sue; Young, Shereen; Folkerts, Joni; Hawkins, Peggy. Nursing Economic$. Jan/Feb 2014, Vol. 32 Issue 1, p26-31. 6p
Abstract: The article discusses a study to determine the relationship between nurse characteristics, nurse intensity and the occurrence of patient adverse events and patient satisfaction. It cites the need to conduct research about nursing costs and intensity within innovative payment and delivery models to be funded by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). It suggests an association between the unit with the lowest nursing intensity and the highest number of overall falls.
Selected articles - Leadership
8. Processes to engage and motivate staff
By Henderson, Amanda; Schoonbeek, Sue; Auditore, Anthony. Nursing Management - UK. Dec 2013, Vol. 20 Issue 8, p18-25. 7p.
Abstract: Nursing has a history of poor workplace contexts in which the focus has been on performing and completing tasks, rather than engaging fully with patients. Further, nursing practice is increasingly driven by bureaucratic demands and service requirements, which can result in neglect of the workplace needs of staff. This article describes how a nurse unit manager changed a poor working environment in one surgical unit by using transformational leadership techniques to address procedural employment practices and poor team relationships. With support from nurse educators in the nursing practice development unit, clinical staff engaged in a series of activities that improved their work relationships, as well as professional and clinical development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
9.The influence of leadership practices and empowerment on Canadian nurse manager outcomes.
By Spence Laschinger, Heather K.; Wong, Carol A.; Grau, Ashley L.; Read, Emily A.; Pineau Stam, Lisa M. Journal of Nursing Management. Oct 2012, Vol. 20 Issue 7, p877-888. 10p
Abstract: Aim To examine the influence of senior nurse leadership practices on middle and first-line nurse managers' experiences of empowerment and organizational support and ultimately on their perceptions of patient care quality and turnover intentions.
Background: Empowering leadership has played an important role in staff nurse retention but there is limited research to explain the mechanisms by which leadership influences nurse managers' turnover intentions. Methods This study was a secondary analysis of data collected using non-experimental, predictive mailed survey design.
10. Complexity Leadership: A Healthcare Imperative.
By Weberg, Dan. Nursing Forum. Oct-Dec 2012, Vol. 47 Issue 4, p268-277. 12p
Abstract: Solution Complexity leadership theory provides a new framework with which healthcare leaders may practice leadership. Complexity leadership theory conceptualizes leadership as a continual process that stems from collaboration, complex systems thinking, and innovation mindsets. Conclusion Compared to transactional and transformational leadership concepts, complexity leadership practices hold promise to improve cost and quality in health care.
Table of Contents - Journal of Primary Health Care - March 2014
11. From Journal of Primary Health care, Volume 6, Number 1, March 2014
EDITORIALS
11A. Controversies and inequities
11B. New Zealand Health Care Editorial: Prescription Charges
11C. Addressing the health care needs of patients with serious mental illness—it takes a system
ORIGINAL SCIENTIFIC PAPERS
11D. Access to general health care services by a New Zealand population with serious mental illness
11E. Equity in statin use in New Zealand
11F. Prognostic factors associated with low back pain outcomes
11G. Eighteen months of depression: examining the chronic care management of depression with particular reference to Pacific people
11H. Effective general practice: audit and feedback for the primary series of immunisations
Qualitative Research
11I. General practice ethnicity data: evaluation of a tool
11J. Influences on final year medical students’ attitudes to general practice as a career
11K. Pulmonary involvement in patients presenting with extra-pulmonary tuberculosis: thinking beyond a normal chest x-ray
Case Review
11L. Button battery injury in children—a primary care issue?
Improving Performance
11M. Management of gout in a South Auckland general practice
11N. Breast cancer screening causes more harm than good - YES
11O. Breast cancer screening causes more harm than good - NO
Continuing Professional Development
11P. Cochrane Corner: General health checks do not reduce morbidity or mortality
11Q. String of PEARLS about addressing addictions
11R. Vaikoloa: Rheumatic heart disease in Samoa and the Pacific Nations
11S. Potion or Poison? Nasal saline for chronic rhinosinusitis
11T. Nuggets of Knowledge: Influenza infection in pregnancy
Workshop
12. Workshop on Pacific Health Promotion and Social Determinants of Health
Date: Thursday 20 March, 2014
Venue Hutt Valley DHB Board Room, Ground Floor, Pilmuir House, Hutt Hospital Campbus, Lower Hutt 5010
More information: http://www.hauora.co.nz/dates-and-registration2.html#sthash.axRhZYDq.dpuf
Latest Publications - Health Promotion Agency
13. Understanding and awareness of depression. In Fact
12 Feb 2014
Globally, depression is marked to become the second leading cause of disability by 2020 (Murray & Lopez, 1996). Six percent of New Zealanders experience a major depressive disorder each year and 14% will experience a major depressive disorder at some point in their lives (Ministry of Health, 2012; Wells, 2006).
Download this report:
http://www.hpa.org.nz/research-library/research-publications/understanding-and-awareness-of-depression-in-fact
14. Consumption of sugary drinks among children and their parents or caregivers. In Fact
21 Jan 2014
The increasing consumption of sugary drinks has been a major factor contributing to the global obesity epidemic. These 'liquid lollies' also increase the risk of other health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, gout, dental decay, and dental erosion
http://www.hpa.org.nz/research-library/research-publications/consumption-of-sugary-drinks-among-children-and-their-parents-or-caregivers-in-fact
News - National
15. High Court judge rules in favour of fluoridation
One News: 1:29PM Friday March 07, 2014
A High Court judge has ruled it is legal for local councils to fluoridate drinking water.
Justice Rodney Hansen today rejected New Health New Zealand's complaint that South Taranaki District Council fluoridating water in Patea and Waverly was illegal and a breach of the right to refuse medical treatment.
http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/high-court-judge-rules-in-favour-fluoridation-5860185
16. Measles warning for plane's passengers
ODT - Thu, 6 Mar 2014
http://www.odt.co.nz/news/national/294131/measles-warning-planes-passengers
17. Caution urged over health sites
Bay of Plenty Times - Tuesday Mar 4, 2014
Passengers on an Air New Zealand flight from Brisbane to Auckland on February 23 may have been exposed to measles, the Auckland Regional Public Health Service says. The health service said there were two infected passengers on flight NZ136 which left Brisbane at 11.15am on February 23. 'Passengers who sat nearest the two cases have the highest risk and are our first priority," said Medical Officer of Health Richard Hoskins. MORE than 70 per cent of Tauranga women search medical symptoms online, a new survey shows. Southern Cross Healthcare Group research showed 71 per cent of Tauranga women and 47 per cent of Tauranga men had searched the internet or social media for information about health.
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/bay-of-plenty-times/news/article.cfm?c_id=1503343&objectid=11213779
News - International
18. Saturated fat is not bad for health, says heart expert
The Telegraph - 6 Mar 2014
Diets that are low in saturated fat do not lower cholesterol, prevent heart disease or help people live longer, a cardiac scientist claims
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/healthnews/10679227/Saturated-fat-is-not-bad-for-health-says-heart-expert.html
19. Parents 'wasting money' on children's vitamins as health experts label marketing misleading
ABC News - Thu 6 Mar 2014
Health experts have blasted the marketing of vitamins for children, labelling it as mostly misleading and manipulative and the products potentially damaging to the children who take them. Paediatricians, dieticians and health policy experts have told the ABC the advertising targets the parents of healthy children
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-03-06/parents-wasting-money-on-childrens-vitamins-health-experts-say/5304128